Longevity Archives

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19/Nov/2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of health and wellness, a new buzzword has emerged: NAD+ therapy. This innovative approach promises to revolutionize the way we think about aging and overall well-being. As more people seek out NAD shots and infusions, it’s crucial to separate fact from fiction. This article delves into the science behind NAD, its potential benefits, and how it stands apart from traditional anti-aging methods.

I’ll also talk about safety and give you ideas to help you decide if NAD+ therapy is right for you. I’ll also stress the importance of getting help from a doctor. Whether you’re a wellness enthusiast or simply curious about the latest trends, this exploration will equip you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions. If you’re ready to take the next step, book an appointment on my website, www.drshawn.ca to discuss your options with a professional.

What is NAD?

NAD, or Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, is a molecule naturally produced by our bodies that plays a vital role in numerous biological processes. From metabolism to DNA repair, NAD is essential for maintaining optimal health. As we age, however, our NAD levels naturally decline, leading to a decrease in cellular function and energy production. This is where NAD+ therapy comes into play. By replenishing NAD levels, proponents claim a wide range of benefits, including improved energy, enhanced cognitive function, and even potential anti-aging effects. But how does NAD+ therapy compare to traditional anti-aging methods, and what are the potential risks involved? This article aims to give you a complete overview, help you understand the details of NAD+ therapy, and help you get better health and wellness.

Understanding NAD

In the intricate dance of life within our bodies, few molecules play as pivotal a role as NAD. This important coenzyme is found in every cell. It is a key part of many biological processes that keep us working well.

NAD is at the center of everything, from making energy that helps us live every day to breaking down food.

NAD’s importance extends beyond energy production and metabolism. It is also instrumental in the repair of DNA, ensuring the integrity of our genetic material, and in cell signaling, facilitating the communication that allows our cells to work together harmoniously.

The oxidized form of NAD, known as NAD+, is particularly noteworthy for its involvement in several cellular processes that contribute to healthy aging. By maintaining optimal levels of NAD+, our bodies can better combat the effects of aging and preserve overall health and vitality.

However, as we age, our NAD+ levels naturally decline. This decrease is associated with a lower efficiency in various cellular functions, leading to reduced energy production, impaired metabolism, and diminished DNA repair capabilities. The result is a cascade of effects that contribute to the aging process and can impact our overall well-being.

In response to this natural decline, there has been a growing interest in therapies aimed at replenishing NAD+ levels. One such approach is NAD+ infusions, which have gained attention for their potential to counteract the effects of aging. By restoring NAD+ to optimal levels, these therapies aim to enhance energy, improve cognitive function, and promote overall well-being.

As more research comes out, it’s becoming clearer what NAD+ infusions can do. NAD+ supplementation may be a good way for people to stay healthy and active as they get older. If you’re interested in exploring this innovative approach, consider booking an appointment to discuss your options with a professional.

NAD+ replenishment: unveiling the potential benefits

NAD+ is a vital coenzyme that plays a pivotal role in numerous biological functions, including energy production, metabolism, and DNA repair. As we age, our bodies naturally experience a decline in NAD+ levels, which can lead to impaired cellular functions and contribute to the aging process. NAD+ infusions have become a promising treatment to fight these effects. They can offer many benefits that can greatly improve overall health.

One of the most notable advantages of NAD+ replenishment is its potential to improve cognitive function. Studies have shown that increasing NAD+ levels can make you feel more clear, focused, and remember things better. This makes it a good choice for people who want to maintain or improve their mental health. NAD+ injections have also been linked to more energy. This makes them a popular choice for athletes and fitness fans who want to improve their performance. NAD+ infusions are different than oral supplements because they bring the coenzyme directly into the bloodstream, without going through the digestive system.

Beyond its cognitive and energy-boosting benefits, NAD+ therapy shows promise in managing various health conditions. Research suggests that it may play a role in mitigating the effects of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, by supporting neuronal health and function. NAD+ infusions have also been studied as a possible treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome. They can help people feel less tired by making their cells make more energy.

For those considering NAD+ therapy, our Toronto clinic offers a range of professional services tailored to individual needs. Whether you’re looking to enhance your cognitive function, boost your energy levels, or manage specific health conditions, consulting with a healthcare provider can help you determine if NAD+ infusions are right for you. By knowing the possible benefits and working with a professional, you can make a good choice about adding this new therapy to your wellness routine.

NAD+ vs. traditional anti-aging methods: exploring the differences

NAD+ therapy represents a significant departure from traditional anti-aging methods, offering a unique approach to rejuvenation and overall wellness. Unlike traditional techniques that often focus on external appearances, such as cosmetic procedures and topical treatments, NAD+ infusion and injection therapies aim to revitalize cells at a fundamental level. This cell renewal can lead to more energy, better thinking, and a feeling of well-being. It can also address internal factors that cause aging.

One of the most notable differences between NAD+ therapy and traditional anti-aging methods is their impact on cellular health. NAD+ therapy targets the root causes of aging by influencing crucial biological processes such as energy production and DNA repair. By boosting NAD+ levels, these therapies can help cells function more efficiently and slow down the aging process. Traditional methods often ignore these main reasons, instead focusing on small improvements that may not address the bigger problems of aging.

Moreover, NAD+ therapy offers potential cognitive and neuroprotective benefits that conventional anti-aging techniques typically do not address. Research shows that NAD+ is important for brain health. Getting optimal levels through supplementation may help improve how well you think and protect against diseases that damage your brain.

Combining NAD+ therapy with other lifestyle changes can make for a stronger effect. This can offer a more complete way to improve health and wellness than traditional methods alone. NAD+ therapy can help you live a healthier and more active lifestyle when combined with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques. It can also help you feel better when you work with a health coach. For people who want a complete approach to anti-aging, NAD+ therapy with Dr. Shawn is a new solution that goes beyond just making skin look better. It also addresses the internal parts of aging and helps overall health.

Safety considerations and potential side effects

NAD infusions and injections have become very popular because they might help people. But it’s important to think about the safety and possible side effects of this therapy. Generally, NAD therapy is well-tolerated by most individuals, with minimal reported adverse reactions. However, it is essential to be aware of the possibility of mild, temporary side effects such as nausea, headaches, and flushing. These reactions are typically short-lived and resolve quickly after treatment.

One of the key safety considerations is consulting with a healthcare professional before starting NAD therapy. This is especially important for people with past medical problems. A thorough exam can help decide if you are fit to have the procedure and address any health concerns. Also, some groups, like pregnant or breastfeeding women, may need more attention. The effects of NAD infusions on these groups are not yet fully understood.

Adhering to recommended dosages is another critical safety measure. Excessive use of NAD can lead to more severe side effects, emphasizing the importance of following professional guidance. In Toronto, there are many clinics that offer NAD therapy. It is important to choose a good provider who can give you detailed consultations and treatment plans that are right for you.

Ultimately, while NAD infusions and injections show promising potential, safety should always be a priority. By talking to an experienced doctor and following, you can reduce risks and get the most out of this new therapy.

Seeking professional guidance: when to consider NAD+ therapy

Considering NAD+ therapy is a personal decision that often arises from specific health concerns or symptoms. People who have trouble sleeping, experience cognitive decline, or get sick more often as they age, might find that NAD+ infusions can help them feel better and feel younger.

Also, people with metabolic disorders, brain diseases, or who want to feel better may benefit from the healing properties of NAD+. It’s important to note that the efficacy of NAD+ therapy can vary, making professional guidance essential.

Before embarking on NAD+ therapy, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional. A qualified provider can assess your individual needs, medical history, and current health status to determine if NAD+ infusions are suitable for you. This assessment helps ensure that the therapy aligns with your health goals and does not interfere with any existing treatments or medications. A visit with a doctor like me can give you detailed tests and suggestions that are right for you. This will make sure you get the best care possible.

Once you begin NAD+ therapy, ongoing monitoring by a healthcare provider is vital. Regular check-ins allow your provider to track your progress, adjust the treatment plan as needed, and address any side effects or concerns that may arise. This personalized approach maximizes the benefits of NAD+ therapy and ensures your safety throughout the process. Talking to a professional not only makes the therapy better, but it also gives you peace of mind because you know your health is in good hands.

DoctorShawn

03/Jan/2024

Men today face many challenges when it comes to their health. From stress and pollution to poor diets and sedentary lifestyles, many factors can contribute to a decline in overall health and well-being. One area where men can be proactive is in optimizing virility and longevity. Naturopathic medicine offers many solutions that can help men achieve optimal health in these areas. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best ways to optimize virility and longevity using naturopathic medicine.

The Power of Diet and Exercise

Regular exercise and a balanced diet can play an imperative role in maintaining men’s health and well-being. The current health statistics for men reveal some alarming figures, highlighting the urgent need for a healthier lifestyle.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 13.8% of men aged 18 and over were in fair or poor health as of 2022. Moreover, 350,000 men lose their lives to cardiovascular disease each year, and men are 1.5 times more likely to die of heart disease, cancer, and respiratory disease.

The Impact of Diet

A healthy diet is a cornerstone of good health. In particular, the Mediterranean diet and intermittent fasting have shown promising results in improving men’s health.

The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and lean proteins, has been linked to lower levels of heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes, and cognitive decline. Intermittent fasting, a pattern of eating that includes periods of eating and fasting, has been associated with weight loss, improved markers of health, and longevity.

Implementing these diets in everyday life might seem challenging at first, but with careful planning and commitment, it can become second nature. Start small, make gradual changes, and be consistent.

The Power of Exercise

Physical activity is equally important for men’s health. Regular exercise helps control weight, reduces the risk of heart diseases, manages blood sugar and insulin levels, improves mental health, and strengthens bones and muscles.

Men should aim for at least 180 minutes of moderate-intensity (Zone 2) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity (Zone 3-4) aerobic activity per week, along with strength training exercises on two or more days a week. Incorporating cardiovascular workouts, strength training, and flexibility exercises can provide comprehensive fitness benefits.

What is Zone 2 Cardio?

Learn more about the benefits of daily stretching

The Synergy of Diet and Exercise

Diet and exercise are not mutually exclusive; they work best when combined. Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, which is crucial for overall health. At the same time, a balanced diet provides the nutrients your body needs to perform physical activity.

The importance of diet and exercise cannot be overstated for improving men’s overall health and well-being. By adopting healthier eating habits and incorporating regular physical activity into daily routines, men can significantly improve their health statistics. It’s never too late to start making healthier choices!

Testosterone

The Role of Hormones

As a naturopathic doctor, I’ve observed that maintaining hormonal balance is a cornerstone of men’s health, vitality, and longevity. Hormones like testosterone, estrogen, DHEA, and many others play a pivotal role in regulating various aspects of male health, including sexual function, energy levels, muscle mass, and bone density. However, imbalances in these hormones can lead to a plethora of health issues. Let’s delve deeper into understanding these imbalances and how we can naturally enhance virility and longevity.

Common Hormonal Imbalances in Men

Hormonal imbalances are not uncommon in men and can result in symptoms such as fatigue, erectile dysfunction, loss of muscle mass, and decreased bone density.

Testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, is vital for libido, muscle mass, and bone density. A decline in testosterone levels can lead to fatigue, reduced sexual desire, and erectile dysfunction.

Estrogen, although known as a female hormone, also plays a crucial role in men’s health. Excessive levels of estrogen can lead to weight gain, mood swings, and even contribute to erectile dysfunction.

DHEA is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands and acts as a precursor to sex hormones, including testosterone. A decrease in DHEA levels can lead to fatigue, depression, and a gradual loss of endurance and muscular strength.

Check out this article on hormone testing

Enhancing Hormonal Health Naturally

To maintain optimal hormonal health, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and smart lifestyle choices are key. Here are some tips to help you on this journey:

Nutrition: Incorporating nutrient-dense foods into your daily regimen can significantly impact your hormonal health. Zinc, magnesium, vitamin D, and Omega-3 fatty acids are particularly beneficial. They support testosterone production, improve sleep (which in turn aids hormone regulation), enhance mood, and boost overall health.

Exercise: Regular physical activity, particularly resistance and high-intensity interval training, can stimulate hormone production and help maintain muscle mass and bone density.

Avoid Harmful Habits: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can adversely affect your hormonal balance. It’s best to limit these habits to promote better hormonal health.

Stress Management: Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your hormonal balance. Practices such as meditation, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress levels.

Vitamin D

Supplementation

Many natural supplements can help men optimize their health and increase their longevity. Some of the most effective supplements for men include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, zinc, magnesium, creatine, and adaptogens. These supplements can help to support healthy immune function, improve heart health, boost energy levels, and promote healthy hormone balance.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that have been shown to have numerous health benefits. They are particularly beneficial for heart health, reducing inflammation, and even supporting cognitive function. A systematic review published in the British Medical Journal revealed that omega-3 fatty acids could lower mortality rates and risks associated with cardiovascular diseases.

Vitamin D: Often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin,” Vitamin D is crucial for bone health and immune function. It aids in the absorption of calcium, which can help prevent the onset of osteoporosis, a common concern as men age.

Zinc: This mineral is vital for men as it plays a significant role in testosterone production. Adequate zinc levels can help maintain optimal testosterone levels, thereby promoting virility.

Magnesium: Known for its multiple health benefits, magnesium can support healthy sleep patterns, muscle function, and mood – all of which contribute to overall vitality and longevity.

Creatine: Creatine is a well-researched supplement known for its ability to improve strength and lean muscle mass. It can be particularly beneficial for aging men looking to preserve muscle mass.

Adaptogens: Adaptogens are a unique class of healing plants that have been used for centuries to help balance, restore, and protect the body. They can help the body resist physical, chemical, or biological stresses, thereby boosting overall health and well-being.

Stress Management

Stress is a major contributor to poor health, and it can have a negative impact on everything from sleep quality and immune function to hormonal balance and cardiovascular health. Naturopathic medicine offers many solutions for managing stress, including:

Relaxation Techniques: Methods such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Acupuncture: This ancient Chinese technique, involving the insertion of very thin needles through the skin at specific points on your body, has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety.

Infusion Therapy: Infusion therapy, which involves delivering substances directly into the bloodstream, can be used to administer nutrients and vitamins that support the body’s stress response.

Natural Supplements: Certain natural supplements, like ashwagandha and magnesium, have been shown to help manage stress. Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, can help the body resist stressors and reduce anxiety and depression symptoms. Magnesium plays a role in regulating the body’s stress-response system and is often used as a natural remedy for anxiety.

When it comes to optimizing virility and longevity, men have many options available to them. Naturopathic medicine offers a holistic approach to wellness that can help men achieve optimal health in these areas. By focusing on key areas like diet and exercise, hormone health, supplementation and stress management, men can take control of their health and achieve optimal virility and longevity for years to come. Consult with a trained naturopathic doctor to learn more about the best ways to optimize your health naturally.

drshawn

19/Oct/2022

You may have seen posts on social media about the benefits of fasting and how it can help improve immunity, but what does the science say? Is there any truth to these claims? Let’s take a closer look.

There are many different types of fasting diets, but the most common are intermittent fasting, alternate-day fasting, prolonged fasting and fast-mimicking. Some people fast for religious reasons, while others do it for health reasons. Let’s now examine some of the different types of fasting protocols.

Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting is a type of fasting diet where you alternate between periods of eating and not eating, usually for a set number of hours each day.

One popular version of this diet is known as the 16:8 fasting to eating ratio, which involves fasting for 16 hours every day and then consuming all of your food during the remaining 8-hour window. This type of fasting has been shown to have several health benefits, including improved insulin sensitivity, fat loss, and increased longevity.

Alternate Day Fasting

Alternate day fasting is a type of fasting diet in which you alternate between periods of eating and not eating. During the fasting period, you typically consume a very low number of calories, usually less than 500 per day. Some people may choose to fast for 24 hours at a time, while others might fast for two days in a row before returning to normal eating patterns.

There are several potential benefits to this type of diet, including weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and increased longevity. However, there are also some potential risks associated with alternate day fasting, such as nutritional deficiencies and difficulty adhering to the diet over the long term.

Prolonged Fasting

Prolonged fasting is an alternative type of fasting diet that is designed to allow the body to enter into a state of ketosis, a metabolic state in which fat becomes the primary energy source instead of carbohydrates.

Unlike other forms of fasting where the specific timeframe for fasting may vary, prolonged fasting typically involves fasting for 3-5 days at a time with periods of normal eating in between. During this time, people may experience side effects like fatigue, lightheadedness, and hunger pangs.

However, proponents of prolonged fasting claim that this type of fast can help promote weight loss by effectively killing off certain cells in the body that are responsible for storing excess fat. Additionally, some research suggests that prolonged fasting may have other health benefits like improved insulin sensitivity and reduction in inflammation.

Fast Mimicking

The fast mimicking diet is a type of fasting diet that involves consuming specific foods and nutrients in order to mimic the effects of fasting. This approach is typically done over the course of 5 days, during which time people consume a low-calorie diet that is high in nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. The goal of this type of fast is to trigger certain biological changes that are typically seen during periods of fasting, such as increased insulin sensitivity, reduced inflammation, and enhanced cellular repair.

While there haven’t been many large-scale studies examining the health benefits of fast mimicking diets, early research suggests that they may have a variety of positive effects on health and longevity.

Fasting and Immunity

There is some evidence to suggest that fasting can help boost immunity. One study found that intermittent fasting increased the production of white blood cells, which are your body’s first line of defense against infection. Another study found that alternate-day fasting improved markers of inflammation, which is thought to be involved in the development of some chronic diseases. Fasting also promotes a disease modifying process called autophagy.

Autophagy

Autophagy is a cellular process where the body breaks down damaged or unnecessary parts of cells in order to clear out harmful waste products and repair any damage. This process can be triggered by fasting, which has been shown to increase levels of autophagy throughout the body, helping to protect against disease and promote good health.

Studies have found that intermittent fasting can increase levels of certain proteins involved in the regulation of autophagy, while alternate-day fasting has been shown to induce autophagy even more effectively.

Additionally, researchers believe that fasting may help stimulate the production of stem cells, which are able to replace old or damaged cell tissues and potentially contribute to improved healing and recovery.

Overall, there is strong evidence that fasting can trigger autophagy in various ways, which may help boost immunity and prevent the development of chronic diseases.

Fasting Risks

It’s important to note that fasting is not for everyone. If you have a medical condition or are taking medication, please consult with your healthcare provider before starting any type of fasting diet. Fasting can also be dangerous if not done correctly. For example, if you don’t eat enough calories or nutrients, you may experience fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. You may also be at risk for dehydration if you are not drinking enough fluids.

Conclusion

So, should you start fasting to improve your immunity? Personally, fasting is the first thing I do when I feel a cold or flu coming on. I have found that this practice dramatically reduces symptoms and duration of illness. As you can see there is some research to support fasting as a natural immune system booster. It is important to note that fasting is not for everyone and can be dangerous if not done correctly. If you’re thinking about starting a fasting diet, please consult with your healthcare provider first.

DoctorShawn

12/Sep/2017

Intermittent fasting is a different way of thinking about eating.

I’m suggesting that the majority of people have been eating too much and too often. I’m suggesting that breakfast is not the most important meal of the day. By following a few simple guidelines my readers can loose weight, feel great and be healthier than ever before. The guidelines are:

“6 to 8 and feel great”
“Eat what you need”
“Respect your food, respect yourself”

6 to 8 and feel great

Everyday eat within a 6 to 8 hour time frame. If you eat breakfast at 7:00am then your last meal of the day should not be later than 3:00pm. If you eat lunch at 12:00pm then your next and last meal should be no later than 8:00pm. In the first scenario you are basically skipping dinner and in the second scenario you are skipping breakfast. Water, tea, and even coffee are allowed outside of the 6-8 hour allotted time frame as long as there is no added calories, i.e. sugar, milk and or cream. There is also no snacking outside of your 6-8 hour window.

Now let me tell you why and how intermittent fasting works. Immediately after eating, a hormone in your body called insulin rises. Insulin tells your body to burn carbohydrates (sugar) for energy and to store whatever hasn’t been used in your liver and fat cells. This process continues for approximately 4 hours after eating. After 4 hours insulin drops and your body begins to dip into stored sugar and fat reserves for energy; or in other words that’s when you start burning fat.

It’s common practice for most people to eat 3 times a day with snacks in between, this means that we almost never dip into our fat stores. Therefore you would have to do some intensive daily exercise or eat incredibly small portions to loose weight. By following the 6-8 rule; you can almost be certain that you will be burning fat for approximately 10-12 hours per day. The only thing keeping you from shedding excess pounds is by being excessive with portion size and calorie intake, which brings us to the next guideline “eat what you need”.

Eat what you need

This guideline basically translates to portion control. One advantage about using the 6-8 methodology is that you will start becoming more in tune with your body and more aware of hunger and satiety. It is a great feeling to eat when you are actually hungry rather than out of habit. When we experience hunger, food is digested better. Hunger causes your gastrointestinal tract to prepare for food, including ample amounts of stomach acid aiding in the proper breakdown and absorption of nutrients.

Pay close attention to the point at which you no longer feel hunger and you are adequately satiated. Do not overeat. Eat to a point that you feel satisfied but not heavy and bloated. You may notice that portion sizes become smaller. Now, because we are eating only two meals per day, it is also important that when we eat, we eat nutritious food and a variety of foods. Which brings us to the next guideline.

Respect your food; respect yourself

This guideline is about what kind of food you eat and how you eat it. As mentioned in the previous section, since we are essentially eating only twice per day, we want to be putting high quality foods into our body. Fresh, local and organic foods are what you want to focus on. The great thing about this diet is that it there are no restrictions on foods, it’s more about quality. Try to have meals that have a good quality protein, and complex carbohydrates such as veggies and whole-grains.

While making healthy choices is very important, it is also just as important not to stress over your food. Do your best to cook healthy while acknowledging that sometimes you will find yourself eating out, ordering fast food, and having desserts. Don’t beat yourself up about the choices you make, love whatever it is your eating, own it and do your best to eat healthy most of the time. Love your food and love yourself.

Final Thoughts

The guidelines I have purposed, although expressed in an original way, are not new concepts. Eating within a 6-8 hour window is also known as intermittent fasting; a lifestyle and medical intervention that shown to have a multitude of health benefits including lowering blood pressure, staving off cardiovascular disease and improving longevity. Presenting these ideas in away that is easy to incorporate into a daily routine can help to improve the lives of many people. I encourage you to try it out, give it a few weeks and let me know how you feel.

Fitness trainer Mike O’Donnell (2 meal mike) does a great job of further explaining intermittent fasting and how to easily incorporate it into your daily routine. I encourage you to visit his site http://www.theiflife.com