Water – Dr Shawn

08/Mar/2025

Amid the buzz about health measurements, there’s one that’s quietly gaining recognition: the phase angle. It’s like a secret code that reveals the health and resilience of your cells, offering a fresh perspective on your body composition and overall wellness. Whether you’re battling a chronic condition or simply striving for your best health, understanding your phase angle could be a game-changer. It’s a bit like having a personal health detective, tracking changes in your cells and guiding you towards smarter choices for your treatment and lifestyle. Curious to learn more? Why not schedule a body composition scan and unlock the mystery of your phase angle?

Understanding phase angle: The basics

To get started, let’s talk about phase angle. It’s a measurement that captures the body’s electrical properties and provides a window into our cellular health. Phase angle is calculated through a method called bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). This non-invasive technique measures how our body tissues respond to a small electrical current, by looking at both resistance and reactance. Resistance is how much the body resists the current, and reactance is how much the body’s cell membranes resist the change in the current.

A higher phase angle is a good thing. It means that your cells are healthier and more resilient. In practical terms, a higher phase angle means you’re in better health. It can be a useful marker for a variety of health assessments. For example, it can help you see if your food and exercise programs are working by showing you how your cells are doing over time.

Phase angle changes can also tip us off to variations in body composition and fluid distribution. When our body’s water or the way fluids are spread between our cells and the rest of our body shifts, the phase angle will reflect that. This is why it’s a great tool for watching our water intake and catching any problems that could affect our overall health. And for healthcare pros and researchers, understanding these phase angle variations is key to getting a clearer picture of our physiological state.

But there’s more. Phase angle isn’t just about the basics. It’s proving to be a game-changer in how we manage chronic diseases and even approach cancer research. By giving us a number to track cellular health, it’s becoming a vital sign in treatment and nutritional monitoring. I’ll delve into these areas a bit later, but it’s worth noting now just how far-reaching the implications of phase angle are across the health spectrum.

How phase angle relates to body composition

Now that we know the basics, let’s talk about how phase angle can be a great way to see our body’s inner workings. It can show us how fat, muscle, and the overall health of our cells interact. Phase angle isn’t just a number; it’s a reflection of how robust and vibrant our cells are. It’s a measure we can thank bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) for, a non-invasive method that zaps a tiny electrical current through us to measure resistance and reactance. The phase angle, then, is the angle between these two measures, and it’s a goldmine of information about our cellular well-being.

Here’s the lowdown: a higher phase angle is like a high-five for your cellular well-being. It points to sturdy cell membranes and a well-hydrated cellular environment. And guess what? Your muscle mass is a big player in this game. Muscles, being the water and electrolyte havens they are, conduct electricity like champs. So, the more muscle you’ve got, the higher your phase angle is likely to be, reflecting a cellular landscape of robust health. On the flip side, lower phase angles might wave a red flag, hinting at cellular damage, inflammation, or dehydration—all the things we’d rather not have our cells dealing with.

I think this phase angle business is like a secret code our bodies are always sending. With the right tools, we can understand it to find a lot of information about our health. It’s like having a conversation with our cells, learning what they need to thrive. And let me tell you, the story they tell are pretty powerful. Over time, I’ve come to understand that a rising phase angle often means our cells are cheering, celebrating an upsurge in muscle mass or better hydration. But a dip in this angle? It’s a red flag, a signal that our cells might be struggling.

Keeping tabs on your phase angle is like having a secret window into your body’s inner workings. It’s a powerful tool for anyone looking to manage their health more effectively. Whether you’re working on your fitness, managing a chronic condition, or simply want to stay ahead of the game, phase angle can be your guide. It’s like having a trusted friend who knows you inside out, nudging you in the right direction to make the best choices for your health.

Phase angle in chronic disease management

It’s not just about the numbers on the scale or the percentages we see. The phase angle is a powerful tool in the fight against chronic disease, giving us a microscopic view of our cellular health and function. It’s based on bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and tells us how well our body conducts electrical current. This is a direct reflection of our cell membranes’ integrity and function. In the fight against long-term disease, a higher phase angle is like a secret weapon. It shows better cell health and function, which can help us get better and recover.

Let’s talk about diabetes. This is where phase angle steps up as a trusty sidekick, a biomarker that’s a game-changer for keeping tabs on your nutritional status and the health of your cells. Managing diabetes is a team effort, involving your diet, exercise, and any prescribed medications. But here’s the thing: by checking your phase angle often, your healthcare providers can see how healthy your cells are. This helps them make your treatment and diet plans better. A lower phase angle might tip them off that your cells need a little extra love, prompting them to adjust your care to keep you in the best shape possible.

And for those battling chronic heart failure, the phase angle is a beacon, predicting how the body might respond to treatments and even hinting at survival rates. With this condition, it’s not just the heart that’s at stake, but a whole symphony of organs and cells. A higher phase angle often whispers of a better response to therapies and a brighter chance at survival. For healthcare providers, it’s a compass, guiding them to adjust treatments and keep a vigilant eye on the disease’s dance.

Now, let’s talk about chronic kidney disease. It’s a tough one, and the phase angle is a big deal here, too. With chronic kidney disease, your cells can take a hit, and their function might not be as sharp as it once was. This can show up as lower phase angle values. But here’s the thing: studies have shown that higher phase angle values in these patients can mean better odds of making it through. So, by keeping an eye on phase angles, healthcare providers can get a clearer picture of what’s going on with their patients and make more informed decisions about their care.

The role of phase angle in cancer research

In cancer research, phase angle has become a bright spot. It gives us important clues that can help us diagnose, predict, and track treatments. One of the most significant findings is its link to cell membrane integrity. In the realm of cancer, this is no small matter, as the health of these membranes can greatly impact how cancer cells behave and respond to treatments. By peering into phase angle, we’re given a window into the cellular health of patients, a vital piece of the puzzle in crafting treatment plans that truly make a difference.

Research consistently tells us that lower phase angles are linked to less favorable outcomes for those battling cancer. It’s like a window into the health of our cells, and if that window is foggy, it can spell trouble. But here’s the thing—by keeping an eye on phase angle over time, we can get a clearer picture of how the disease is progressing and how our treatments are working. If we see that phase angle on the upswing, it’s a glimmer of hope, a sign that maybe, just maybe, our cells are rallying and we’re on the path to better days.

Moreover, studies have hinted that phase angle could be the crystal ball for how one might respond to chemotherapy. Imagine how powerful that would be. A healthcare provider with this knowledge could create a treatment plan that’s just right for you, which could make it more likely that you’ll get better. It’s about minimizing the guesswork and maximizing the benefits, all by understanding what’s happening at the cellular level.

And here’s something that’s really piqued my interest: the potential to boost phase angle through smart nutrition and targeted therapies. By shoring up the integrity of our cell membranes, we might just be able to bolster the health of those fighting cancer. This approach is all-encompassing. It not only treats the disease itself, but it also helps our body’s natural defenses, which may lead to better long-term results.

Improving health through phase angle analysis

With a deeper understanding of how phase angle is a health barometer, let’s explore how we can put this knowledge to work. One of the most remarkable things about this technology is its potential to catch chronic diseases in their earliest stages. Armed with this information, healthcare providers can act swiftly, halting the advance of the illness and improving patient well-being. Early detection is key, as it opens the door to personalized interventions that can make a world of difference in quality of life.

I’ve learned that higher phase angles often signal better cellular health, a key player in our overall well-being. When our cells are in top form, our bodies are better at fending off infections, bouncing back from illnesses, and maintaining a balanced state. It’s a powerful connection that’s made me a firm believer in the value of regular check-ins. By tracking changes in my phase angle, I’ve gained insights that have nudged me towards proactive steps to keep my health on the upswing.

Now, let’s talk about how this all relates to cancer treatment. Monitoring phase angle is a powerful tool for healthcare providers. It helps them see how well treatments are working and how patients are bouncing back. By staying on top of this data, they can fine-tune treatments, giving patients the best shot at a full recovery. And for us patients, seeing that our treatments are paying off can be a game-changer, mentally and emotionally. It’s a big part of the healing process.

These scans, with their phase angle analysis, are like having a health coach in your corner, cheering you on with personalized insights. They paint a vivid picture of muscle mass, fat distribution, and hydration, all key players in the game of health. Armed with this knowledge, we can make smart choices about our diet, exercise, and lifestyle, leading to changes that stick and a healthier, happier life in the long run.

And let’s not forget the motivation that comes with it. When people see their phase angle improving, it’s like a high-five from their body, cheering them on to keep up the good work. Whether it’s tweaking their diet, getting more active, or finding ways to de-stress, the feedback from a phase angle analysis can be the nudge they need to make a change for the better.

By using phase angle analysis, we can make our health management more personal and effective. This will lead to a better quality of life for everyone.

drshawn

25/Mar/2023

As parents, we all want the best for our children, and that includes making sure they’re getting the nutrition they need to grow up healthy and strong. Proper nutrition is crucial to a child’s physical and cognitive development, and it can be challenging to navigate the world of childhood nutrition. But don’t worry; I’ve got you covered. In this brief guide, I will discuss the essential nutritional requirements for kids.

1. Carbohydrates

One of the most critical components of a child’s diet is carbohydrates. They give kids energy, so it’s essential to choose the right carbs – complex carbohydrates are the way to go. These are found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and they provide kids with long-lasting energy throughout the day. Avoid processed or refined carbohydrates, like white bread or sugary cereals, as these can cause an energy crash later in the day.

The amount of carbohydrates that kids need for optimal health depends on their age, gender, and physical activity level. However, as a general guideline, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children between the ages of 4 and 18 should get 45-65% of their daily calories from carbohydrates. For most children, this translates to about 130-200 grams of carbohydrates per day. Once again it is important to note that not all carbohydrates are created equal, and kids should focus on getting carbohydrates from nutritious sources such as: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes rather than from processed or sugary foods.

2. Protein

Growing children need plenty of protein, as it is essential for building and repairing tissues. Protein can be found in a variety of foods, such as meats, beans, eggs, and dairy products. You should aim to include a source of protein in each meal, but be mindful of focusing on lean sources, like skinless chicken, fish, legumes and soy to keep saturated fats to a minimum.

The amount of protein that kids need for optimal health varies depending on their age, gender, and physical activity level. However, as a general guideline, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children between the ages of 4 and 13 should get about 0.95 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, while children between the ages of 14 and 18 should get about 0.85 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.

Good sources of protein for kids include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans, legumes, and soy products. It’s important to encourage kids to eat a variety of protein-rich foods to ensure that they are getting all of the essential amino acids that their bodies need for growth and development. In general, it’s best to focus on getting protein from whole foods rather than from powders or supplements.

3. Fats

It’s important to include some healthy fats in a child’s diet, as they provide essential fatty acids that the body needs for growth and development. Some good sources of healthy fats include nuts, seeds, oily fish, and avocados. However, it’s essential to limit saturated fats, found in things like cheese and fried foods, as they can increase the risk of heart disease later in life.

The amount of fat that kids need for optimal health also depends on their age, gender, and physical activity level. However, as a general guideline, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children between the ages of 1 and 3 years old should get about 30-40% of their daily calories from fat. Children between the ages of 4 and 18 years old should get about 25-35% of their daily calories from fat.

It’s important to note that not all fats are created equal, and kids should focus on getting their fats from healthy sources such as: nuts, seeds, olive oil, avocado, fatty fish, and dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt. These foods are rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that are important for growth and development. Trans fats and saturated fats, which are found in fried foods, bakery products, and high-fat meats, should be limited as much as possible as they increase the risk of heart disease and other chronic health conditions.

It’s important to also remember that fat provides more calories per gram than carbohydrates or protein, so portion control is key. Encouraging kids to eat a balanced and varied diet that incorporates healthy sources of fat is important for their overall health and well-being.

4. Vitamins and Minerals

Kids need plenty of vitamins and minerals to stay healthy and strong, and a varied diet should provide them with most of what they need. Encourage your child to eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, as these are excellent sources of essential vitamins and minerals. It’s also a good idea to include a daily multivitamin specifically formulated for children, which can help fill in any nutritional gaps in their diet.

Common vitamin and mineral deficiencies in kids:

Vitamin D: Vitamin D is essential for strong bones and teeth, as well as for overall health. Kids who get limited exposure to sunlight or who have a diet low in vitamin D-rich foods such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified milk may be at risk for vitamin D deficiency.
Iron: Iron is critical for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Kids who don’t get enough iron in their diet may be at risk for anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and other health problems. Good sources of iron include lean meats, beans, whole grains, and fortified breakfast cereals.
Calcium: Calcium is essential for building strong bones and teeth as well as for muscle function and nerve transmission. Kids who don’t get enough calcium may be at risk for weakened bones and teeth. Good sources of calcium include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified products such as orange juice and tofu.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is important for maintaining a healthy immune system and for the absorption of iron from plant-based foods. Kids who don’t get enough vitamin C in their diet may be at risk for a weakened immune system and a higher risk of infections. Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, and vegetables such as peppers and broccoli.
Vitamin A: Vitamin A is critical for healthy vision, skin, and immune function. Kids who don’t get enough vitamin A in their diet may be at risk for vision problems, skin issues, and an increased susceptibility to infections. Good sources of vitamin A include carrots, sweet potatoes, dark leafy greens, and fortified foods such as milk and cereal.
Magnesium: Another common nutrient deficiency in kids is magnesium. Magnesium is involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body and is essential for healthy bone development, muscle function, and heart health. Good sources of magnesium include whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods such as breakfast cereal. Kids who don’t get enough magnesium in their diet may be at risk for weaker bones, cardiovascular issues, and muscle weakness or cramping. While magnesium deficiencies are rare, kids who follow restrictive diets (such as vegan or low-carb diets) or who have certain health conditions (such as type 2 diabetes or gastrointestinal disorders) may be at an increased risk.

5. Hydration

Finally, it’s crucial to ensure that kids are drinking enough water. Children are more likely to become dehydrated than adults because they have a higher surface area to volume ratio, which means they lose more fluids through their skin. Encourage your child to drink water instead of sugary drinks, and make sure they’re getting enough fluids throughout the day, especially during physical activity.

The amount of water that kids need for optimal health depends on their age, sex, size, and activity level.

Recommendations:

Infants aged 0-6 months need about 1 liter of water per day, which is primarily obtained through breast milk or formula.
Infants aged 6-12 months need about 1.5 liters of water per day, which is primarily obtained through breast milk or formula and may be supplemented with small amounts of water.
Children aged 1-3 years need about 1.3 liters of water per day, which can come from water, milk, and other fluids as well as from the water content of foods.
Children aged 4-8 years need about 1.7 liters of water per day, which can come from water, milk, and other fluids as well as from the water content of foods.
Children aged 9-13 years need about 2.4 liters of water per day for boys and 2.1 liters of water per day for girls, which can come from water, milk, and other fluids as well as from the water content of foods.
Adolescents aged 14-18 years need about 3.3 liters of water per day for boys and 2.3 liters of water per day for girls, which can come from water, milk, and other fluids as well as from the water content of foods.

It’s important to note that these recommendations are general guidelines, and individual needs may vary based on factors such as temperature, humidity, and physical activity level. Encouraging kids to drink water and other healthy beverages throughout the day and eat foods with high water content such as fruits and vegetables is important for their overall health and well-being.

Conclusion

Nutrition is a vital component of a child’s health and wellbeing, and as parents, it’s our responsibility to ensure they’re getting the nutrients they need to grow up healthy and strong. The guidelines I’ve discussed here are just a starting point, and it’s always best to consult with a pediatrician, naturopathic pediatrician or registered dietitian to determine the specific nutritional needs of your child. By providing a varied diet that includes complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of vitamins and minerals, we can help our children reach their full potential, both physically and mentally. So, go ahead and nourish your child’s body – and mind – with the power of good nutrition!

drshawn

15/Mar/2023

Fluoride is a mineral that has been added to many public water supplies since 1945 to help prevent tooth decay. It is important to maintain a balanced amount of fluoride in our water, as too little can lead to dental problems and too much can cause more serious health issues. But what about the effects of fluoride on our hormones? Can the amount of fluoride in tap water be causing hormone disruption? Let’s look at the facts.

What is Fluoride?

Fluoride is an essential mineral found naturally in soil, water, and food. It helps protect teeth from decay and can even help reverse early signs of cavities. In some cities, fluoride is added to the public drinking water supply, either through the addition of hydrofluorosilicic acid or sodium silicofluoride. This process has been used since 1945 and has been shown to reduce cavities by 15-40%. However, there have been some studies linking high levels of fluoride consumption to potential health risks.

Does it Affect Hormones?

Some studies suggest that fluoride may act as an endocrine disruptor, meaning it could interfere with the body’s natural hormones. The hormones affected most by fluoride are those related to thyroid function and reproductive health. Research suggests that exposure to high levels of fluoride could lead to decreased levels of these hormones in both humans and animals. Additionally, studies have shown that increased exposure to these hormones can cause changes in behavior and impaired cognitive development in children.

The World Health Organization recommends that water fluoride concentrations should not exceed 1.5 milligrams per liter in order to minimize potential health risks associated with chronic exposure. More specifically, the WHO suggests an optimal concentration of fluoride in drinking water of 0.5-1.0 mg/L as it is associated with lower rates of dental caries and minimal risk of fluorosis. Furthermore, a 2020 study found that fluoride intakes lower than 1.1 milligrams per day are safe for adults and 0.7 milligrams per day is safe for children up to age 8.

However, more research needs to be done before we can definitively say that consuming fluoridated tap water affects hormone production negatively. Currently, the US Department of Health & Human Services recommends a range for optimal amounts of fluoride for public drinking water supplies (0.7-1.2 mg/L). Most municipal systems fall within this range; however, if you live outside this range you may want to consider having your local water tested for contaminants like lead and arsenic as well as excessive levels of fluoride before drinking it regularly or using it for other household activities such as cooking or bathing.

Water Testing

With the potential risks of consuming high levels of Fluoride, it is essential to know the concentrations of Fluoride, as well as other minerals, in your tap water. Fortunately, there are several options that enable people to test their water for Fluoride and other minerals. The most common methods are testing strips and drops or sending a sample off to a laboratory and requesting a Fluoride test. Here is a link to one such company that will send you a home testing kit MyTapScore

Fluoride Filtration

There are several common ways you can filter out fluoride from your water. The most straightforward approach is through a reverse osmosis system which will filter out any particles larger than 0.0001 microns; this includes Fluoride and other contaminants like heavy metals or bacteria. Another popular filtering technique involves an activated alumina filter media. When the Fluoride molecules are exposed to this filter media, they become trapped permanently, ensuring the purity of your drinking water.

Finally, distillation systems can also be used for Fluoride filtration – allowing only vaporized water through the system while trapping Fluoride ions in its solid form before returning it as pure liquid. Here is a link to a helpful article on the best rated filter systems of 2021. It includes low cost table top options as well as full house systems. Personally, I purchased the Clearly Filtered System with three filters. This will last for approximately one year.

Conclusion

There is still a lot we don’t know about how fluoride affects our bodies—including how it might affect hormone production. While some studies suggest that high levels of fluoride consumption could disrupt our natural hormone balance, more research needs to be done before any definitive conclusions can be drawn. In the meantime, it is important for consumers to understand their local water quality so they can make informed decisions about their health and safety when using tap water for drinking or other purposes like cooking or bathing.

With knowledge comes power! Knowing your local tap water quality will help keep you safe from excessive levels of contaminants like lead and arsenic as well as potential hormone disruptors like excess amounts of fluoride present in your tap water supply system.

What is phase angle and how can it tell us about our health

Understanding phase angle: The basics

How phase angle relates to body composition

Phase angle in chronic disease management

The role of phase angle in cancer research

Improving health through phase angle analysis

A Brief Guide to Nutritional Requirements for Kids

1. Carbohydrates

2. Protein

3. Fats

It’s important to also remember that fat provides more calories per gram than carbohydrates or protein, so portion control is key. Encouraging kids to eat a balanced and varied diet that incorporates healthy sources of fat is important for their overall health and well-being.

4. Vitamins and Minerals

Common vitamin and mineral deficiencies in kids:

Vitamin D: Vitamin D is essential for strong bones and teeth, as well as for overall health. Kids who get limited exposure to sunlight or who have a diet low in vitamin D-rich foods such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified milk may be at risk for vitamin D deficiency.

5. Hydration

The amount of water that kids need for optimal health depends on their age, sex, size, and activity level.

Recommendations:

Infants aged 0-6 months need about 1 liter of water per day, which is primarily obtained through breast milk or formula.

Infants aged 6-12 months need about 1.5 liters of water per day, which is primarily obtained through breast milk or formula and may be supplemented with small amounts of water.

Children aged 1-3 years need about 1.3 liters of water per day, which can come from water, milk, and other fluids as well as from the water content of foods.

Children aged 4-8 years need about 1.7 liters of water per day, which can come from water, milk, and other fluids as well as from the water content of foods.

Children aged 9-13 years need about 2.4 liters of water per day for boys and 2.1 liters of water per day for girls, which can come from water, milk, and other fluids as well as from the water content of foods.

Adolescents aged 14-18 years need about 3.3 liters of water per day for boys and 2.3 liters of water per day for girls, which can come from water, milk, and other fluids as well as from the water content of foods.

Conclusion

Does Fluoride in Tap Water Cause Hormone Disruption?

What is Fluoride?

Does it Affect Hormones?

Water Testing

Fluoride Filtration

Conclusion

With knowledge comes power! Knowing your local tap water quality will help keep you safe from excessive levels of contaminants like lead and arsenic as well as potential hormone disruptors like excess amounts of fluoride present in your tap water supply system.

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