Optimize Your Health: Learn About Your Genes

Today I want to share with you some important nuggets of information on human genes and what I learned from “Interpreting Your Genetics” and the “Dirty Genes” summits. In one of my blogs last year, I briefly touched on the subject of NutriGenomics and Epigenetic and DNA testing, you can find it on blog posts inside the website.  

First let me cover the basics. 

Human cells consist of the following:

• cell membrane = outer cell skin
• cytoplasm = cell “soup”
• mitochondria = power stations swimming inside the cell, 
• nucleus = large sac holding our 23 pairs of non-identical chromosomes
• chromosomes contain inside double helix DNA strands
• DNA strands made up of genes, approximately 30,000 genes

Genes are the coding producers that instruct every function in our our body in every second of our existence.

To achieve the highest possible state of health, we need all cells in our body to function to their highest functional pattern. We are not talking here about diseases!  We are switching gears from Diagnosis to a Prognosis mind set.

Dr. Jeffrey Bland, PhD known as a Father of Functional Medicine,  guides us into a proactive approach to our health and well-being. 

The approach that is based on four functional patterns, Four Ps:

1. Predictive 
2. Preventive
3. Personalized
4. Participatory

Predictive pattern is gathered via DNA/genetic testing.

You can order raw DNA data at one of the popular consumer labs, like “23and me”, “AncestryDNA” or FamilytreeDNA”. 

It is only done once in a lifetime.

Once you have the results, we can plug them into one of the few trusted websites for extensive interpretations to obtain actionable steps/plans for different approaches to environment, lifestyle and diet. 

The other three Ps come to play: preventive, personalized and participatory actions.

Here you definitely need a knowledgeable coach to guide you through the maze of SNPs.

SNP= single nucleotide polymorphism, or gene variation/spelling.

While we have around 20 thousand genes, we have over 10 million known gene variations up to date, and one person can have over one million of SNPs. The raw DNA tests can provide info on ~ 40 thousand of SNPs, that are known to potentially alter our genetic function. They are called actionable SNPs. 

And here come the science of Epigenetic - the study of gene regulation via environment: nutrition, sleep, stress, toxic exposure. Please understand, it is not about changing the DNA, but switching its “dirty genes” off or clean them up.  

This term  “dirty genes” is used by Dr. Ben Lynch in the same title book, where he explores the most researched “laundry” list of 7 genes and their many variations on our health. He offers natural solutions that can ultimately allow us to rewrite the unwanted genetic destiny.

As I  mentioned, NutriGenomics and EpiGenetics are new and fast growing sciences with tons of new information coming everyday.  As I keep learning, I will share with you all of the new findings. 

I will be glad to work with you on your actionable steps based on the findings of your gene variations in the DNA test, if you decide to take one. 

The steps that help you to create the most beneficial environment for your health with 

1. proper food intake - will call it diet (even though I prefer healthy food choices)
2. sleep 
3. exercise  
4. personalized supplements 
5. stress reduction programs
6. elimination of toxic exposure

Benefits FAR Infrared - SOQI Bed Benefits.

Also known as Hyperthermia Dome. FAR Infrared light is invisible part of the Sun's spectrum, not to be confused with ultra violet light, that can be damaging. The human body can easily absorb FIR, because its deep penetrating ability. Studies have shown, that FIR can penetrate up to 2-3 inches deep. "And why is it good for me?" — you ask. Here it is!

Hyperthermia helps to:

• Accelerate the biochemical metabolic processes of the entire body and increase detoxification significantly
• Increases the permeability of cell membranes to water, oxygen, nutrients.
• Supports reparative and regenerative processes
• Increases overall circulation and promotes blood circulation of tissues and organs, opens clogged collateral vessels
• Relieves the tonus of striated and smooth musculature causing muscle relaxation Increase the velocity of nerve conduction
• Activates sub-acute and chronic inflammation processes by way of promoting their cure
• Influences the immunological system profoundly
• At sufficiently high temperatures, restricts the propagation of microorganisms and viruses and malignant cell division

Impressive! Yes, it is! Otherwise I would not invest money and valuable space in my cozy office in Stamford.

I am ready to see you in my healing studio Monday through Sunday by appointment. I am devoted to your health and I am here to answer any of your health related questions. 15 min. phone consults are still FREE and welcomed.

Please call or email me, so I can help you to stock up on appropriate herbs/vitamins/natural compounds/homeopathies that Dr. Fitzgerald mentions in this chart. My virtual dispensary Fullscript will give you easy access to all products with your special 20% discount (as my client) and free shipping.

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In Giving You Receive this Holiday Season!

What I wish for you is everything that you can imagine for yourself. This holiday season, I am wishing for you to create and maintain your most perfect health, to create a state of mind, where there is no judgment, but joyful acceptance of this incredible life we all are living now. 

I am wishing you many happy moments and most of the time, living contently. 

From my heart & mind to yours - Love and Light.

As you ponder what gifts to give, please consider giving the experience of relaxation in my Reflexology chair or on the Far Infra Red table. Your loved ones will enjoy the experience, for sure.

In Giving You Receive.

• Purchase one gift certificate - my gift to you 30% off your next session.
• Purchase two gift certificates - my gift to you 40 % off your next session.
• Purchase three gift certificates - my gift to you 50 % off your next session.
• Purchase four gift certificates - my gift to you, your next session free. 

Gift Certificates must be purchased before December 24th this year (last-minute shoppers, rejoice!) There is no expiration date on my gift certificates.

If you'd like to do it electronically, here is the link to my Shop. I can even mail the lovely festive Gift Certificate to your loved one on your behalf - to make your life easier. As you purchase your gift certificate online, please simply click the image and print it.

If you prefer to refer your friends and coworkers to my practice, please accept my gratitude and receive $30 off your next session, or complimentary use of Far Infra Red SoQi bed - value of $60.

Please call 203-968-6824 or email irina@ibhealing.com 

Purchase gift certificates here.

Accept my deepest gratitude for being in my healing practice. Dr. Dexter and I are really blessed to do healing/relaxing work with you.

New Caucus in Congress on Integrative Healthcare

I recently learned about a new policy consortium on Integrative Healthcare. If you are as passionate about healthcare in our country as I am, check it out here: https://ihpc.rallycongress.net/ctas/advance-integrative-healthcare.

I did send a letter to Senators Blumenthal & Murphy as well as Representative Himes in support of the Congressional Integrative Health and Wellness Caucus, co-founded by Rep. Mike Coffman, R-Colo., and Jared Polis, D-Colo. The Caucus will provide legislators and other policy and regulatory officials opportunity to understand how shifting focus in healthcare to prevention, health creation and health promotion can create cost savings while improving health outcomes for Americans.

As a professional reflexologist with twenty years of experience in the field, I can attest to the power of this complementary modality in health maintenance and disease prevention. For your immediate information:

Reflexology is a protocol of manual techniques applied to specific reflex areas predominantly on the feet and hands. These techniques stimulate the complex neural pathways linking body systems, supporting the body’s efforts to function optimally.

The effectiveness of reflexology is recognized worldwide by various national health institutions and the public at large as a distinct complementary practice within the holistic health field. (RAA 2016)

NIH - National Institute of Health recognition:

The NIH recognized Reflexology as one of the therapeutic methods in the NIH departments, as well as on their website.

Some research information on reflexology:

• Reflexology reduces feeling of pain – UoP (University of Portsmouth)

http://uopnews.port.ac.uk/2013/04/09/reflexology-reduces-feelings-of-pain/

• Reflexology reduces acute pain in infants PubMed NIH 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26220257

• Reflexology recognized particularly in reducing pain – UM (University of Minnesota)

https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healing-practices/reflexology/what-does-research-say-about-refloxology

• Reflexology at Dana-Farber http://blog.dana-farber.org/insight/2016/07/how-can-reflexology-help-cancer-patients/

• Reflexology at Michigan University, funds by the NCI (National Cancer Institute)   http://nursing.msu.edu/News%20and%20Events/Latest%20News/

http://research.msu.edu/reflexology-shows-promise-for-treating-cancer-symptoms/

• PTSD:

https://www.massagemag.com/reflexology-offers-hope-for-ptsd-and-other-conditions-32567/

 • Diabetes:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26822889

• Sleep & Insomnia -

http://www.reflexologyresearch.net/ReflexologySleepResearch.shtml

• IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) 

http://www.reflexologyresearch.net/ReflexologyIrritableBowelsResearch.shtml

• MRI Validate Reflexology - http://www.healingbalance.org/1/post/2014/10/scientists-use-mri-to-validate-reflexology.html

Gut Health

Your health begins in the gut, and continues in the intestines. How do you know, if your gut is functioning properly? I would like to share with you the easiest way to evaluate your gastro-intestinal health. 

All you need is to look at your poop, literally, here is the visual. Please share your type with me on your next visit or call.

Tongue Diagnosis

 First off, read this amazing book: “You are What you Eat” book by Dr. Gillian McKeith.

The following are excerpts from Dr McKeith's book. This information is no substitute for seeking medical advice from a doctor or qualified practitioner, if there are any concerns.

Healthy Looking Tongue:

If this is your tongue below, congrats, no need to look further. If it is not your tongue, review the pictures below and please know that your gut health can be improved and your tongue will show the results. Let's talk about the right nutritional choices you can make. I'm here for you to modify and add appropriate supplements and teas through my Virtual Dispensary- FullScript.

Photo from: simplysupplementsblog.com

Cracked Tongue

A crack down the middle of your tongue means that you are probably nutrient depleted and your digestion isn't what it should be.  You are probably also often bloated after eating and have energy slumps in the middle of the day.  I would  recommend taking digestive enzymes with meals,  eat soups, stews and blends which are easy to digest, and avoiding fizzy drinks.

 labspace.open.ac.uk

Eat nourishing foods: Artichokes, Avocados, Carrots, Sprouts of seeds, Parsnips, Black or Wild Rice, Squash, Sweet Potatoes, Turnips, Yams

Drinks herbal infusion of Fennel, Peppermint, Licorice.

White Coating

Thick White Coating or Swollen Tongue is an indication of too much mucus in the body.  It's also a sign of a lack of beneficial bacteria and too much yeast.  Dr McKeith recommends reducing dairy products, eating more green superfoods and taking probiotics to replenish your body with healthy bacteria.

blogs.discovery.com

Teeth Marks

Teeth marks around the side of the tongue are due to nutritional deficiency. Dr. McKeith says your digestion is also probably impaired and you have a spleen deficiency.  If your Spleen is weak, you probably also struggle with gas and bloating.  

www.acupuncture123.ca

Spleen nourishing foods: Aduki Beans,Yellow squash, Mung Beans, Kidney Beans, Alfalfa, Beetroot, Oats, Carrots, Parsley, Celery,Parsnips, Pumpkin, Fennel, Sweet Potatoes, Turnips, Yams,  Fish, Chicken. Foods high in Chlorophyll: Leafy greens, Algae, Kale, Chard.

Herbs and Spices to Nourish the Spleen: Astragalus, Garlic, Black Pepper, Ginger, Cayenne Pepper, Ginseng, Cinnamon, Horseradish, Dill seed, Pau d’Arco. 

Cracks

Horizontal cracks, small cracks/grooves on tongue are usually a sign of malabsorption, especially of B vitamins, and often accompanied by a lack of energy.  Most overweight patients that Dr McKeith sees for the first time, she says, are deficient in B Vitamins.  This has usually developed over a long time.  

candidablogspot.co.uk

She recommends, Vit. B Complex, digestive enzyme supplements, peppermint and nettle teas and 2 tbsp of Aloe Vera juice before meals.  She also recommends taking echinacea tincture (20 drops daily for 2 weeks), to help move lymph and eliminate toxins that are impeding nutrient absorption. I add the Bellicon trampoline to the daily routine.

Yellow Coating

A Thick Yellow Coating indicates excess heat in the gut, and that you don't have enough healthy bacteria in your body.  Dr McKeith says if the coating is at the back of your tongue you need to pay attention to your colon, as you bowels may not be working as they should be. Check against the Bristol Stool Chart, I provided above.

maciociaonline.blogspot.co.uk

Solutions: If you can take 2 tablespoons of aloe vera juice before meals.

Add sage tea (2 cups a day for a month), and alternate this with camomile tea.

Eat more vegetables, nuts, grains, seeds. Are you run down from doing too much, please start to take things easier.

Red Tip: 

Red Tip on the Tongue according to Dr McKeith  indicates emotional stress or upset. She recommends at looking at ways to reduce the stress in your life.

homeopathyworldcommunity.com

Sore Tongue is a sign of a nutrient deficiency, often iron, vitamin B6 or niacin.

She recommends to drink nettle teas and it may be worth getting your iron levels checked and seeing a medical professional for proper test and supplementation.

• She recommends to drink nettle teas and it may be worth getting your iron levels checked and seeing a medical professional for proper test and supplementation.