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The common cold affects children, on average, 6-8 times a year while adults contract 4-6 colds per year.1 Such cold viruses generally maintain their presence throughout all seasons and account for 40% of time lost from jobs and approximately 30% of absenteeism from school.1(1289) Considering absenteeism from school, work, and associated unfavorable symptoms (chills, sniffles,…
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a condition characterized by the development of two abnormal proteins in the brain known as β-amyloid and tau, which are toxic to nerve cells within the brain.1 The build-up of such proteins inexorably leads to neuron death, degraded brain function, and manifestations of dementia; a general term, which describes a decline in mental abilities…
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common disabling condition characterized by degenerative changes in articular cartilage and underlying bone.1 Degeneration ensues when the balance of cartilage synthesis and breakdown becomes disrupted. Left unmitigated, deeper deterioration of articulating surfaces emerges causing pain, decreased mobility, and lowered quality of life. Therefore, it is imperative to consider interventions which help…
Meaningful and accurate assessment of health status often requires analysis of symptoms, and signs. Symptoms can be thought of as subjective reports from a patient regarding a physical disturbance or disease, while a sign can be defined as objective evidence of disease ascertained from biomarkers.1 Biomarkers can be characterized as a measure of pathogenic processes,…
Mounting evidence is suggesting that deep belly breathing, otherwise known as diaphragmatic breathing (DB), can induce beneficial and relaxing effects that support physical and mental health.1 Although DB is slowly gaining attention amongst exercise professionals, medical professionals, and the general public, specific benefits have remained largely elusive.1(1) Considering the anecdotal benefits of DB, the following…
Demographics are steadily shifting towards an aging population, worldwide; by 2050, it is estimated that 25% of the global population will be of advanced age.1 Such knowledge should behoove one to preemptively consider interventions to manage health. In this author’s previous posts, information was provided regarding advanced age (i.e., 65+), sarcopenia, and general interventions…
In this author’s previous post, information was provided regarding advanced age (i.e., 65+) and associated changes in strength production, muscle physiology, and quality of life. Left unchecked, such losses compound over time impeding individuals’ health and function. Primary drivers behind such unfavorable changes included a lack of physical activity and decreased appetite (please see The…
Individuals of advanced age (i.e., 65+) tend to exhibit changes in several biomarkers considered essential in maintaining activities of daily living (ADL) and overall health. Such changes include steady decrements in both muscle mass and bone density; hallmarks of the aging process.1 Left unchecked, such losses compound over time inexorably impeding individuals’ health and function….
Cancer remains a leading cause of death, worldwide, despite advances in early screening and patient care. Although systemic therapies exist, such as chemotherapy and hormone therapy, toxicity and side effects from such approaches often erode their appeal to patients suffering from cancer.1 Natural therapeutic approaches, which include botanical interventions, have been used for generations to…
Herbal medicine has been practiced in regions of the world for generations, and continues to emerge in Westernized societies as an alternative to conventional approaches.1 Interestingly, aromatic herbs are known to exhibit a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties used both in culinary herbs and traditional remedies.1(1) One particular use for such herbs could be for…