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06/Jul/2023

We all love basking in the sun and getting our daily dose of Vitamin D, but long-term sun exposure can cause severe skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Your sunscreen is your go-to weapon for protecting against UV rays, but did you know that there are also several foods that can help protect you from sun damage? From watermelon to sweet potatoes, read on to find out the top ten foods that will help protect you from the scorching heat of the sun!

1. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene, which has been linked to a reduction in skin damage caused by sun exposure. Eating cooked tomatoes or tomato-based products like tomato sauce can help increase your lycopene intake. For more information about the health properties of tomatoes click here
2. Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes contain high levels of beta-carotene, which can help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Beta-carotene also helps to make your skin more radiant.

3. Watermelon: Watermelon contains antioxidants like lycopene, beta-carotene, and Vitamin C, which makes it an excellent food to eat when you’re spending time in the sun.

4. Green Tea: Drinking green tea regularly can also help protect your skin from sun damage. Green tea contains catechins, which have antioxidant properties that help prevent skin damage and reduces the risk of skin cancer.
5. Fish: Fatty fishes like salmon, sardines, and tuna contain omega-3 fatty acids that can protect your skin and reduce inflammation caused by sunburn. Omega-3s can also help your skin better retain moisture.

6. Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate is packed with flavonoids, which is a type of antioxidant that can help protect your skin against sun damage. Eating a square or two of dark chocolate each day can provide sufficient protection.
7. Carrots: Carrots are another excellent source of beta-carotene, which can help prevent sunburn and sun damage. Eating carrots can help improve the overall health of your skin.
8. Almonds: Almonds contain Vitamin E, which is an essential nutrient for preserving healthy skin. Vitamin E prevents UV damage and helps to maintain the natural oils on your skin.
9. Citrus Fruits: Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are rich in Vitamin C, which can help prevent sun damage and can also improve your skin texture.
10. Spinach: Spinach is high in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which can help prevent damage to your skin by neutralizing free radicals caused by the sun.
Eating a well-balanced diet is essential, not just for overall wellness but also for protecting your skin from the sun. Consider incorporating these ten foods to your daily nutrition to help protect your skin from sun damage, in addition to wearing sunscreen and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun. Stay healthy and enjoy your time outdoors! For more articles on sun-blocking foods click here

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07/Jun/2023

Hair loss can be an alarming reality for some people. It can affect both men and women and can occur due to a multitude of factors. You may have tried several remedies with little to no results. So, what’s the deal with micro-needling? Could it be the answer to your hair loss woes? In this blog post, we dive deep into the world of micro-needling and whether or not it can help restore your hair.

What is micro-needling?

First off, what is micro-needling? Micro-needling is a cosmetic procedure that entails using a roller or pen-like tool to create small punctures in the skin. The aim of this procedure is to enhance skin regeneration and collagen production. As a hair loss remedy, micro-needling works by boosting blood flow to the hair follicles, stimulating hair growth, and improving its thickness. A series of micro-needling sessions can be performed over a few months to achieve significant results.

Does it work?

So, does it work? The short answer is yes! Micro-needling has shown to be a promising hair loss remedy. A study published in the International Journal of Trichology found that micro-needling significantly improved hair loss in both men and women. Another study conducted on female pattern hair loss revealed that micro-needling combined with topical minoxidil (a popular hair loss product) was more effective than minoxidil alone. It’s worth noting that micro-needling may not work for everyone, and you should discuss this treatment with your healthcare professional.
Here’s a a few summaries of recent research on micro-needling (often in combination with other treatments) for hair loss.
  1. Dhurat, R., & Mathapati, S. (2015). Response to Microneedling Treatment in Men with Androgenetic Alopecia Who Failed to Respond to Conventional Therapy. Indian Journal of Dermatology, 60(3), 260–263. This study found that microneedling combined with conventional therapy (minoxidil) significantly improved hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia who had not responded to minoxidil alone.
  2. Dhurat, R., Sukesh, M. S., Avhad, G., Dandale, A., Pal, A., & Pund, P. (2013). A Randomized Evaluator Blinded Study of Effect of Microneedling in Androgenetic Alopecia: A Pilot Study. International Journal of Trichology, 5(1), 6–11. This randomized, evaluator-blinded study demonstrated that microneedling combined with minoxidil was more effective in promoting hair growth in patients with androgenetic alopecia than minoxidil treatment alone.
  3. Almohanna, H. M., Ahmed, A. A., Tsatalis, J. P., & Tosti, A. (2019). The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review. Dermatology and Therapy, 9(1), 51–70. This review highlights the potential benefits of microneedling for hair loss and suggests that combining it with topical treatments, such as vitamins and minerals, may enhance its effectiveness.
  4. Khatu, S. S., More, Y. E., Gokhale, N. R., Chavhan, D. C., & Bendsure, N. (2014). Platelet-rich plasma in androgenic alopecia: Myth or an effective tool. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 7(2), 107–110. This study investigates the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) combined with microneedling for treating androgenetic alopecia, showing promising results in terms of hair density and thickness improvements.

Side Effects

Micro-needling, when done by a professional, is relatively safe and has minimal side effects. You may experience redness, swelling, or slight bleeding immediately after the procedure, but these symptoms usually subside after a few hours. You should avoid direct sunlight and harsh hair products for at least a day after the treatment.

Risks of at-home treatment

Performing microneedling at home can pose several potential risks, as the procedure requires precision and sterile conditions to be carried out safely. Some of the risks associated with at-home microneedling include:
  1. Infection: Using non-sterile equipment or not properly disinfecting the skin before treatment can introduce bacteria and lead to infections.
  2. Scarring: Incorrect technique or using needles that are too long or too deep can cause damage to the skin, resulting in scarring or the formation of keloids.
  3. Hyperpigmentation: Improper microneedling technique may result in skin discoloration, particularly for individuals with darker skin tones or those prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
  4. Skin irritation: At-home microneedling may cause excessive redness, swelling, or irritation, especially if the skin is sensitive or not adequately prepared before the procedure.
  5. Inconsistent results: Lack of professional expertise and standardized equipment can lead to uneven penetration of the needles, resulting in inconsistent treatment outcomes.
  6. Aggravation of skin conditions: Attempting microneedling at home without consulting a healthcare professional could exacerbate pre-existing skin conditions, such as acne, rosacea, or eczema.
  7. Allergic reactions: At-home microneedling combined with topical products may increase the risk of allergic reactions or sensitivities due to enhanced absorption of the products.
There are a few things to keep in mind if you opt for micro-needling for hair loss. Firstly, you should discuss starting this treatment with your healthcare professional. Secondly, micro-needling only works on hair loss caused by reduced blood flow to the hair follicles and not hair loss caused by hormonal imbalances or genetics. You will likely need to combine micro-needling with other treatments to achieve hair growth. Lastly, it’s a commitment – you may need several sessions to see significant results.

Conclusion

We hope this blog post has given you more insight into micro-needling for hair loss. While this cosmetic procedure shows promising results, it may not work for everyone, and it’s essential to discuss it with a professional. There are also other remedies and treatments both Naturopathic and pharmaceutical that may work better for some people. The key takeaway here is to be patient and consult your healthcare professional to help you find a hair loss solution that works for you.

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07/Mar/2023

Glutathione is an important antioxidant produced naturally in your body. It helps to protect cells from damage, preserve energy levels, and improve overall health. Recently, glutathione infusions have become increasingly popular as a way to give your body an extra dose of this essential antioxidant. But what is the science behind it? Let’s take a closer look at glutathione infusion and its potential benefits for your health.

What is Glutathione?

Glutathione is an antioxidant found in all cells in your body and plays an important role in many biological processes. It acts as a detoxifying agent, helping to rid the body of toxins such as heavy metals and other pollutants. Additionally, glutathione helps to regulate cell growth, DNA repair, immune system responses, and antioxidant activity. In short, having sufficient amounts of glutathione in your system allows for optimal functioning of all these processes.

The Benefits of Glutathione Infusions

Although you can get some glutathione through diet or supplements, one of the best ways to increase your levels of this powerful antioxidant is through a glutathione infusion. An infusion involves injecting a concentrated solution of glutathione directly into the bloodstream. This ensures that the maximum amount of this nutrient is delivered quickly and efficiently into the body where it can be put to immediate use.
Studies have shown that these infusions can help reduce inflammation caused by oxidative stress and improve detoxification pathways in the body. Some research has even suggested that regular infusions may help improve symptoms associated with chronic illnesses like diabetes and Parkinson’s disease.
Glutathione infusions are also commonly used as part of anti-aging treatments since they help to reduce wrinkles and dark spots on skin due to their ability to reduce oxidative stress from ultraviolet radiation exposure. In addition to providing aesthetic benefits, these infusions may also help boost energy levels due to their ability to restore depleted nutrient stores in the body.

Glutathione and Parkinson’s Disease

Several studies have looked into Glutathione’s potential for treating Parkinson’s disease, a chronic neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and cognitive impairment.
A study published in 2015 that looked at both animal models and human clinical trials found that intravenous glutathione could provide symptomatic relief when used as an adjunct to conventional treatments. This research showed that it was safe, well-tolerated, and effective at reducing motor symptoms such as rigidity and bradykinesia.
More recently, a 2018 systematic review of clinical evidence found that using glutathione injections in combination with levodopa was significantly more effective than standard treatment alone. The results suggest that glutathione may help alleviate the motor symptoms associated with Parkinson’s while also potentially mitigating side effects from traditional medications.
Overall, several studies have shown promising findings indicating that intravenous glutathione can improve motor symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. As more research is conducted, it may become an increasingly viable option for patients seeking additional treatment options.

Glutathione in aesthetic and anti-aging medicine

Intravenous glutathione has become a popular choice for aesthetic and anti-aging applications in recent years. Research has suggested that it may be a safe and effective way to improve skin complexion, reduce signs of aging, and increase overall appearance.
A 2017 study from the University of Messina looked at the use of glutathione injections as an anti-aging treatment for the face and neck. The study found that using intravenous glutathione was an effective means of reducing wrinkles and improving skin texture, elasticity, tone and firmness. It also appeared to have some protective effects against UV radiation-induced damage such as pigmentation, inflammatory reactions, and skin atrophy.
In addition to its potential for treating the visible signs of aging, glutathione therapy has also been studied for its ability to correct pigmentation issues such as melasma and hyperpigmentation. A 2008 case series from Saudi Arabia showed that a combination of oral doses and topical application of glutithione could lead to significant improvement in facial discoloration over time.
Overall, there is growing evidence suggesting that intravenous glutathione can have beneficial effects on aesthetic medicine when used correctly. While more research is needed to confirm its efficacy in this area, it appears to offer promising results when used in conjunction with other treatments.

Glutathione and Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks and damages nerve cells. Recent research has suggested that glutathione may have potential for treating MS, as it is known to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
A 2006 study from Belgium explored the effects of intravenous glutathione on MS patients who had previously failed to respond to conventional therapies. After 8 weeks of treatment with glutathione, researchers found that the majority of patients experienced significant improvements in their physical symptoms. Notably, these improvements were sustained during 12 months of follow up.
More recently, a 2017 systematic review looked at the use of intramuscular or intravenous glutathione injections in combination with interferon beta-1a for treating MS relapses. The results showed that this approach was more effective than just using interferon alone, resulting in better control of symptoms such as motor weakness and visual impairment.
Overall, while further research is needed to fully evaluate its potential, there is evidence suggesting that glutathione injections may be a safe and effective treatment option for certain types of MS-related symptoms. In particular, they appear to be beneficial when used as an adjunct therapy alongside existing medications.

Glutathione and Diabetes

Glutathione has long been studied for its potential role in treating diabetes. Research has suggested that it may be effective at reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are associated with the development of type 2 diabetes.
In a 2002 study from the University of Modena, researchers looked at the effects of intravenous glutathione injections on 42 diabetic patients. After 12 weeks of treatment, participants had significantly improved their blood sugar levels, as well as their lipid profile parameters. Moreover, 82% of them experienced an improvement in back pain and other physical symptoms.
A more recent 2011 study examined the effects of oral supplementation with glutathione on diabetic patients who had previously failed to respond to insulin therapy. The results showed that those receiving glutathione achieved better glycemic control compared to those receiving just insulin treatment alone. Additionally, they had improved scores on measures such as body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference.
Overall, while more research is needed to fully understand its potential in this area, there is evidence suggesting that glutathione may be beneficial in managing some of the symptoms associated with diabetes. In particular, it appears to offer promising results when used together with conventional therapies such as insulin injections or oral anti-diabetic drugs.

Conclusion

Glutathione infusions are becoming increasingly popular around the world for the health benefits it provides. Results have been particularly impressive when used to treat conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease, Anti-aging, multiple sclerosis and diabetes. Despite this, it is recommended that potential users only seek experienced healthcare professionals who can accurately prescribe the correct dose for them. We know that glutathione infusions provide substantial outcomes but it must be taken responsibly, in order to reach its full efficacy. At the very least, we recommend doing research prior to embarking on any type of treatment journey. To discover more information about our services and procedures involved in administering glutathione infusions please don’t hesitate to contact us today – we’d be more than happy to answer any questions or queries you may have!

 

Sources

Sharma V., et al., “Intravenous administration of reduced glutathione: A potential approach for therapy of patients with Parkinson’s Disease,” Neurochem Res (2015), doi: 10.1007/s11064-015-1510-6

Jubinsky P., et al., “Glutathione Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review,” Oxidative Medicine & Cellular Longevity (2018), doi: 10.1155/2018/1283082

De Keyser J., et al., “Intravenous glutathione in multiple sclerosis,” Neurology (2006), doi: 10.1212/01.wnl.0000232530.30045.bd

Batocchi AP., et al.,”Glutathione plus Interferon Beta-1a Versus Interferon Beta-1a Monotherapy for Multiple Sclerosis Relapses: A Systematic Review,” Neurol Clin Pract (2017), doi: 10.1097/ncp.0000000000000455

Cogliandro AF., et al., “Glutathione iv infusion: An innovative tool for antiglycation strategy,” J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol (2017), doi: 10.1111/jdv.14146

Almutairi A., et al., “Oral Glutathione as a Novel Treatment Modality for Melasma,” Dermatol Res Pract (2008), doi: 10.1155/2008/420464

Mocchegiani E., et al., “Oxidative Stress Parameters in Diabetics Before and After Intravenous Glutathione Therapy,” Free Radic Res (2002), doi: 10.1080/1071576021000051371

Kumar AK., et al.,”Metabolic Effects of Oral Glutathione Therapy in Type 2 Diabetics Not Responding to Sulfonylurea Drugs,” Nutrition & Metabolism (2011), doi: 10.1186/1743-7075-8-71


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