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Holistic Healthcare

The term “holistic” is often associated with unscientific alternative medicine, but there is in fact a holistic way of approaching health that understands the mind and body of the patient as a unified whole. That is what “holistic” means: considering the complete individual, the entire person as a unity rather than viewing them as a collection of independent systems. Although the understanding of the person is based on a modern, scientific approach to medicine, the holistic perspective on healthcare considers those many systems to be interdependent and the health of the overall person dependent on all of those systems working as they are supposed to with one another. Anything that affects the mind, body, or wellbeing of the person can influence health.

One important feature of a holistic approach to health care is that the doctor will focus on the patient’s lifestyle and make suggestions for changes in lifestyle if that can help the patient’s overall health. The most prevalent example is probably exercise and diet, which can have myriad effects on health. Non-holistic healthcare providers might treat symptoms that arise because of the effects of weight or lack of exercise, but a holistic doctor will appreciate that those symptoms will continuously return if the underlying issues are not treated. Doctors who practice holistic healthcare will often prescribe changes in diet or exercise regimens that will attempt to treat the whole person.

A holistic healthcare practice understands that human beings have innate healing abilities that can emerge when the mind and spirit are appropriately healthy. This means paying attention to emotional and mental well-being as well as physical, as people who suffer from depression or sleep disorders related to emotional turbulence may have a harder time recovering from physical issues than otherwise emotionally healthy people. A holistic doctor will seek to treat mental and spiritual problems through many different means. This may even include working on relationships with family and friends in order to create a more emotionally supportive environment that will help with physical healing.

The primary feature of holistic healthcare is that it serves the person, not the disease. Health is a feature of an entire human being, including mind and wellbeing, not merely individuated systems within the biology of the human creature. At Internal Medicine, Lipids, and Wellness Practice in Fort Myers, Dr. Kordonowy is part of a team that provides holistic healthcare. Dr. Kordonowy believes in a patient seeing his or her doctor periodically to assess his/her present level of wellness and potential risk for future disease is an important investment for themselves.

If you have any questions about what holistic healthcare can do for you, be sure to contact Dr. Kordonowy today at (239) 362-3005, extension 200 or click here. Dr. Kordonowy is a concierge, patient membership physician, and provides direct primary care services.

 

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The Importance of Iron

Popeye knew what he was doing by eating his spinach. He turned to spinach to get stronger, which is true – spinach can help a person feel/be stronger. How? Spinach is loaded with iron, which not only helps a person’s strength, but also can give a person energy, strengthen bones, improve brain and cardiovascular function, and keep the digestive tract healthy. Sadly, low iron is the number one nutritional deficiency in America.

If you’ve ever felt extra exhausted or weak, there’s a good chance you may be lacking this mineral, especially if you’re a woman. Around 10 percent of women in America are deficient in iron, according to the CDC.

Iron is an essential mineral that is extremely important for the body to have a proper amount. This mineral helps transport oxygen throughout the body. Iron is an important component of hemoglobin, which is the substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. In fact, hemoglobin represents, around two-thirds of the body’s iron. If your body is lacking iron, the body cannot make enough heathy oxygen-carrying red blood cells, and you most likely will develop anemia.

When the body lacks oxygen, you feel fatigued and exhausted; your body will have a tougher time fighting off infections or even thinking or making decisions properly.

How do you know if you have a deficiency? Often, people don’t even realize they have anemia unless they are beyond fatigued, pale, or have a hard time exercising. Symptoms of low iron include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Increased heart beat
  • Sores at corner of the mouth
  • Cold hands and feet
  • A sore tongue
  • Brittle nails
  • Hair loss
  • Difficulty swallowing

A doctor can detect an iron deficiency through a blood test. If you are pregnant, have ulcerative colitis, celiac disease or Chron’s, you should get your blood tested regularly.

The amount you need depends on age, gender, and health. Your doctor will help determine how much you need. Your doctor will suggest an iron-rich diet if your iron is low. Iron-rich foods include: red meat, spinach, beans, dried fruit, and fortified cereals. However, your diet may not be enough for your deficiency, and your doctor may recommend an iron supplement. Your doctor will start you on a low dose and gradually increase your dosage, so your chance of developing side effects (constipation, upset stomach, vomiting) is lessened. Adults shouldn’t take more than 45 mg of iron a day.

If you’ve been extra sluggish lately (even though you get enough sleep) and your mind seems foggy, you may be low in iron. Your best bet is to get your blood levels checked by a doctor. Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipid & Wellness of Fort Myers will examine you and order a blood test to determine if you have an iron deficiency or another issue. To book a consult, click here or call 239-362-3005, ext. 200. Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipid & Wellness is a concierge, patient membership physician in Fort Myers, and provides direct primary care services.

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Common Nutritional Deficiencies

Even in Western countries where food is relatively plentiful, there are still millions of people who suffer from nutritional deficiencies. Often, these deficiencies express themselves in minor ailments that many people ignore, because people assume that if they’re eating enough they’re also getting enough nutrients. However, because of the nature of highly processed foods and other problems with manufactured food, many people are not getting the proper nutrients they need. Here are a few of the most common nutritional deficiencies in the United States:

 

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for bone health, as it is involved in helping bones absorb calcium. Vitamin D deficiencies are fairly widespread in the United States, and this can lead to a decrease in bone health, especially among the elderly. Some foods like milk and bread have vitamin D added, but eggs and fish are also a great natural source. The easiest way to get vitamin D is to spend a little bit of time in the sun every day, as the body naturally produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight.

 

Calcium

Calcium is also important for bone health, and as mentioned above works with Vitamin D to replenish the bones. Calcium helps people recover from activity and exercise, especially endurance and high-intensity exercise. Calcium is most commonly found in dairy products, but other healthy sources include almonds and salmon. Be sure to increase your vitamin D to help your body absorb calcium.

 

Potassium

Potassium helps with muscle functioning, including the heart, and with healthy nerve tissue. Sometimes healthy levels of potassium can help lower blood pressure. Fluid loss through excessive sweating, or from vomiting or diarrhea can flush potassium out of the body, causing a deficiency. Bananas are the most well-known source of potassium, but many other foods are also a good source, including mushrooms, potatoes, and leafy, green vegetables.

Iron

Iron is important for healthy red blood cells and the immune system, as well as the general growth and functioning of our bodies. People with iron deficiencies may feel fatigued or be more susceptible to illness. Iron can be gained from many meats, with organ meats being the richest source. Oysters, clams, chicken, turkey, and red meat are great sources of iron. Iron deficiency is most common among women, but anyone with poor eating habits can also be at risk.

 

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 helps the body produce energy by assisting in enzymatic reactions. In addition, B12 helps make neurotransmitters in the brain as well as in the production of DNA. The source of vitamin B12 is primarily from animals, through meats like chicken and fish, as well as animal products like milk and yogurt. The increase in recent years of the Vegan lifestyle has increased the incidence of Vitamin B12 deficiency, but even Vegans have options of B12-fortified foods. Most healthy adults can usually get enough B12 through diet alone.

 

Nutritional deficiencies aren’t immediately life-threatening, but over time the negative effects can build up and adversely affect your health. Even a general feeling of weariness and lack of motivation might be a sign of some deficiency. Be sure to critically examine your diet to see what you might be missing out on, and definitely consult a doctor for advice in getting the nutrients your body needs. Contact Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipids, and Wellness in Fort Myers for a nutritional consultation. A certified dietician is available at the office. Call him today at 239-362-3005, ext. 200 or click here. Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipid & Wellness is a concierge, patient membership physician in Fort Myers, and provides direct primary care services.

 

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Common Nutritional Deficiencies

Even in Western countries where food is relatively plentiful, there are still millions of people who suffer from nutritional deficiencies. Often, these deficiencies express themselves in minor ailments that many people ignore, because people assume that if they’re eating enough they’re also getting enough nutrients. However, because of the nature of highly processed foods and other problems with manufactured food, many people are not getting the proper nutrients they need. Here are a few of the most common nutritional deficiencies in the United States:

 

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for bone health, as it is involved in helping bones absorb calcium. Vitamin D deficiencies are fairly widespread in the United States, and this can lead to a decrease in bone health, especially among the elderly. Some foods like milk and bread have vitamin D added, but eggs and fish are also a great natural source. The easiest way to get vitamin D is to spend a little bit of time in the sun every day, as the body naturally produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight.

 

Calcium

Calcium is also important for bone health, and as mentioned above works with Vitamin D to replenish the bones. Calcium helps people recover from activity and exercise, especially endurance and high-intensity exercise. Calcium is most commonly found in dairy products, but other healthy sources include almonds and salmon. Be sure to increase your vitamin D to help your body absorb calcium.

 

Potassium

Potassium helps with muscle functioning, including the heart, and with healthy nerve tissue. Sometimes healthy levels of potassium can help lower blood pressure. Fluid loss through excessive sweating, or from vomiting or diarrhea can flush potassium out of the body, causing a deficiency. Bananas are the most well-known source of potassium, but many other foods are also a good source, including mushrooms, potatoes, and leafy, green vegetables.

Iron

Iron is important for healthy red blood cells and the immune system, as well as the general growth and functioning of our bodies. People with iron deficiencies may feel fatigued or be more susceptible to illness. Iron can be gained from many meats, with organ meats being the richest source. Oysters, clams, chicken, turkey, and red meat are great sources of iron. Iron deficiency is most common among women, but anyone with poor eating habits can also be at risk.

 

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 helps the body produce energy by assisting in enzymatic reactions. In addition, B12 helps make neurotransmitters in the brain as well as in the production of DNA. The source of vitamin B12 is primarily from animals, through meats like chicken and fish, as well as animal products like milk and yogurt. The increase in recent years of the Vegan lifestyle has increased the incidence of Vitamin B12 deficiency, but even Vegans have options of B12-fortified foods. Most healthy adults can usually get enough B12 through diet alone.

 

Nutritional deficiencies aren’t immediately life-threatening, but over time the negative effects can build up and adversely affect your health. Even a general feeling of weariness and lack of motivation might be a sign of some deficiency. Be sure to critically examine your diet to see what you might be missing out on, and definitely consult a doctor for advice in getting the nutrients your body needs. Contact Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipids, and Wellness in Fort Myers for a nutritional consultation. A certified dietician is available at the office. Call him today at 239-362-3005, ext. 200 or click here. Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipid & Wellness is a concierge, patient membership physician in Fort Myers, and provides direct primary care services.

 

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Eat Right For Your Heart

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.

The original article appeared here.

The foods you eat directly impact your cardiovascular health. Improving your diet can help you manage current health conditions, such as high cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar, and can also help prevent future health problems.

What is a heart-healthy diet?

A heart-healthy diet is:

  • High in omega-3 fats, found in many fishes, especially salmon
  • High in fiber
  • High in fruits and in green, red and orange vegetables
  • Low in saturated fats and trans fats
  • Low in sodium
  • Low in sugar
  • Low in cholesterol
  • Low in alcohol or alcohol-free
  • Calorie-balanced to support a healthy weight

What’s the difference between healthy fat and unhealthy fat?

Saturated and trans fats can be especially harmful to your heart and arteries. A heart-healthy diet is low in these harmful fats but includes moderate amounts of healthy fats. Mono- and polyunsaturated fats, especially omega-3 fats, are good for your heart.

When it comes to your weight, all fats are equally high in calories. When it comes to your heart, some fats are bad and some are good.

Why are saturated fats so bad for me?

Saturated fats are unhealthy primarily because they raise blood levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the so-called “bad” cholesterol. No more than 7 percent of your calories each day should come from saturated fats. For a person eating 2,000 calories per day, that’s 16 grams of saturated fat, the equivalent of less than 3 ounces of cheese.

To decrease your saturated fat intake, cut down on meat, cheese, butter and cream. Switch to more plant-based fats instead. For example, add guacamole instead of cheese to your tacos. Spread peanut butter — especially natural peanut butter — instead of butter on your toast. Sauté vegetables in a teaspoon of oil instead of a pat of butter.

Why are trans fats so bad for me?

Trans fats, commonly found in deep fried foods or foods made with partially hydrogenated oils, are especially harmful because they raise LDL cholesterol and also decrease the “good cholesterol,” high-density lipoprotein (HDL). There is no recommended level of trans fat because any amount can be harmful.

Fortunately, nutrition facts labels on packaged foods are now required to list trans fat content. Read labels and avoid foods containing trans fats.

How much healthy fat should I have in my diet?

Research suggests that a heart-healthy diet can provide up to 35 percent of its calories from fat, as long as the fats are mostly mono- and polyunsaturated. For a diet of 2,000 calories, that’s a maximum of 78 grams of fat.

Unsaturated fats mostly come from plant sources, as indicated on the table above. One exception is the increasingly famous omega-3 fat, which is found in highest concentrations in oily fish, such as salmon.

Omega-3 fat, in the form of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), is being studied to find out exactly how it benefits health. So far, evidence is strongest for omega-3 fat’s ability to lower blood pressure and decrease blood levels of triglycerides. At the UCSF Cardiovascular Care and Prevention Center, we recommend eating fish frequently — at least two times per week.

For non-fish eaters, a fish oil supplement may be appropriate. Up to three grams per day of combined EPA and DHA is probably safe for most people, but, as with all supplements, be sure to check with your doctor before you start taking it. We also recommend visiting the Environmental Defense Fund website, which rates the safety of many fish oil supplement brands.

  • Eat fatty fish at least twice a week. If you don’t eat fish, consider adding a fish oil supplement providing up to three grams daily of combined EPA and DHA. Check with your doctor first and investigate the quality of the supplement you plan to take.
  • Also include walnuts and ground flaxseeds, which are good vegetarian sources of omega-3 fat, in your diet as often as possible.

Remember, all fats are high in calories, so if weight loss is your goal, don’t go “hog wild” even with healthy foods, such as salmon and walnuts. A drizzle of oil on your salad, a few nuts on your oatmeal, or a small fillet of fatty fish topped with a spoonful of diced avocado is plenty for most people.

In addition to the dietary fat guidelines above, we recommend you limit cholesterol intake. Cholesterol is most concentrated in meats, egg yolks, organ meats, shrimp and squid, but it is present in all animal products. A reasonable serving of lean meat is the same size as the palm of your hand. If you have a high risk of heart attack or stroke, limit these cholesterol-rich foods to once a week.

How much sodium, or salt, should I have in my diet?

Cutting down on sodium is one of the best things you can do for your heart. The average American eats about 4,000 milligrams of sodium per day. That’s twice the recommended amount.

People vary in sensitivity to sodium, but in general, decreasing sodium intake can help people with hypertension by decreasing their blood pressure significantly. It can also prevent or delay the high blood pressure that typically appears in people with normal blood pressure as they age.

Aim to consume no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day. Some people, including African-Americans, middle-aged and older adults, and people with high blood pressure, should aim for less than 1,500 milligrams per day. That’s equivalent to a mere 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of table salt.

How can I decrease the amount of sodium in my diet?

  • Avoid the salt shaker and salty condiments like sauces, pickles, relish, capers and olives.
  • Watch out for the main sodium culprits — packaged and processed foods. Eat foods labeled “low sodium,” “reduced sodium,” or “light in sodium.” When possible, choose foods that provide 5 percent or less of the daily value of sodium per serving.
  • Canned soups, processed meats (frankfurters, sausage, pepperoni, deli turkey or ham), crackers, chips, pretzels, frozen meals and canned tomato juice are especially high in sodium. Avoid these foods and choose fresh foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat and nonfat milk and yogurt instead.
  • Restaurant food is usually high in sodium. Eat out less and cook at home more often, seasoning foods with fresh or dried herbs, garlic, ginger, citrus juices, salt substitute (potassium chloride), pepper or vinegar instead of salt. If you must add salt, do so after the food is cooked rather than while cooking, to maximize its impact on your taste buds.

Why is sugar bad for my heart?

Sugar is a general term used to describe simple carbohydrates (mono- and disaccharides) that are either naturally occurring or added to foods during processing or at the table. Complex carbohydrates (polysaccharides) are commonly referred to as starches, and these are broken down into sugar in the body during the digestive process.

Common table sugar — white, granulated sugar — is sucrose. It is made up of one molecule of glucose and one molecule of fructose, the sugar in fruit.

Sugar is a threat to heart health for a few reasons. First, sugar raises blood glucose and stimulates insulin production. This is not a problem for people with normal metabolism, but is troublesome for those with pre-diabetes, diabetes or metabolic syndrome. Second, high-sugar foods are often high in calories and can lead to overeating and weight gain. Third, diets high in simple sugars can increase blood levels of triglycerides.

Is the natural sugar in fruit healthy?

A heart-healthy diet does include some carbohydrates, and even a small amount of sugar — in the right form and in limited amounts.

Naturally occurring sugars are more healthful than added sugars. A heart-healthy diet includes fruit, vegetables, grains and yogurt and milk for some — all of which contain naturally occurring sugars. Because these foods provide important vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates, the body’s main fuel source, they should be a regular part of the diet.

Added sugars, however, are in many of the processed foods we eat. The biggest source of added sugar for Americans is soft drinks, but fruit drinks, sweetened coffee drinks, pastries, candy, jams and jellies, syrup, and many ready-to-eat cereals are also high in added sugar. Read the labels. These foods are often low in nutrients and should be included in very limited amounts or avoided in a heart-healthy diet.

The bottom line: Cut down on sweets. Avoid sugary beverages. Include healthy carbohydrates — from fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and whole grains, and low- or nonfat milk and yogurt — in moderate amounts, eaten throughout the day rather than all at once. Talk to a dietitian for help figuring out how much carbohydrate is best for you.

What effect does alcohol have on my heart?

Too much alcohol is not good for your heart. Excessive alcohol intake can increase fats (triglycerides) in the blood, increase blood pressure and add extra calories that lead to weight gain.

In moderation, alcohol appears to have some beneficial effect on the heart. The possible antioxidant effect of red wine has been widely publicized, but its potentially beneficial substances can be obtained from other foods, such as grapes or red grape juice.

Alcohol may have an anti-clotting effect on the blood, reducing clot formation and reducing the risk of heart attack or stroke. Aspirin may help reduce blood clotting in a similar way. The best-known beneficial effect of alcohol is an increase in HDL, the “good” cholesterol. However, regular physical activity and weight loss are other effective ways to raise HDL cholesterol.

While studies on the potential mechanisms of alcohol on cardiovascular risk need further research, right now we do not recommend adding alcohol to your diet to achieve these potential benefits. If you already drink alcohol and have no reason to avoid it, such as alcoholism or family history of alcoholism, limit it to one serving per day for women and two servings per day for men. One serving is 12 ounces of beer, four ounces of wine, 1.5 ounces of 80-proof spirits or one ounce of 100-proof spirits.

How much fiber should I have in my diet?

A high-fiber diet is part of a heart-healthy lifestyle. In addition to its role in heart health, a high-fiber diet appears to reduce risk of developing diabetes, diverticular disease, constipation and colon cancer. Fiber also slows digestion, which means high-fiber foods help you feel fuller, longer — which may help you eat fewer calories and control your weight.

Dietary fiber is material from plant cells that cannot be broken down by enzymes in the human digestive tract. There are two important types of fiber: water-soluble and water insoluble. Each has different properties and characteristics. Both types of fiber are helpful in maintaining good digestion and providing a sense of fullness, which helps prevent overeating and weight gain.

Soluble fiber in particular decreases blood cholesterol. Fruits, vegetables, legumes (dry beans, lentils, peas), barley, oats and oat bran are good sources of soluble fiber.

Total dietary fiber intake should be at least 25 to 30 grams a day from food, not supplements. Right now dietary fiber intakes among adults in the United States average about 15 grams a day. That’s about half the recommended amount.

How can I increase the amount of fiber in my diet?

Fruits and Vegetables

  • Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Fresh fruit is slightly higher in fiber than canned. Eat the peel whenever possible — it’s easier than peeling or eating around it.
  • Have fresh fruit for dessert.
  • Eat whole fruits instead of drinking juices. Juices don’t have fiber.
  • Add chopped, dried fruits to your cookies, muffins, pancakes or breads before baking. Dried fruits have a higher amount of fiber than the fresh version. For example, one cup of grapes has 1 gram of fiber, but one cup of raisins has 7 grams. However, one cup of raisins or any other dried fruit has more calories than the fresh fruit variety.
  • Add sliced banana, peach or other fruit to your cereal.
  • Grate carrots on salads.
  • Keep prepared carrot and celery sticks, cucumber rounds and other fresh vegetables for a quick, high-fiber snack.
  • Choose a side salad instead of fries with lunch.
  • Consider alternatives for routine meals eaten out. Choose restaurants with healthier choices such as vegetable side dishes, whole grain breads, fruits and salads. Fast food should not mean high-fat and low-fiber meals.
  • Try recipes that use more vegetables and fruit.

Legumes and Beans

  • Add kidney beans, garbanzos or other bean varieties to your salads. Each one-half cup serving is approximately 7 to 8 grams of fiber.
  • Substitute legumes for meat two to three times per week in chili and soups.
  • Experiment with international dishes, such as Indian or Middle Eastern food, that use whole grains and legumes as part of the main meal or in salads.

Grains and Cereals

  • Keep a jar of oat bran or wheat germ handy. Sprinkle over salad, soup, breakfast cereals and yogurt.
  • Use whole-wheat flour when possible in your cooking and baking.
  • Choose whole grain bread. Look on the label for breads with the highest amount of fiber per slice.
  • Choose cereals with at least 5 grams of fiber per serving.
  • Keep whole-wheat crackers for an easy snack.
  • Cook with brown rice instead of white rice. If the switch is hard to make, start by mixing them together.

Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipid & Wellness of Fort Myers is a concierge, patient membership physician, and provides direct primary care services. He will be able to administer the tetanus vaccine at his office To book an appointment, click here or call 239-362-3005, ext. 200.

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Lipids Resources and Management

As a lipidologist (cholesterol specialist), I wanted to briefly introduce you to National Lipid Foundation. This Foundation supports patient and clinician education research and community outreach activities that enhance and support the Foundation in its efforts to reduce cardiovascular events and deaths related to abnormalities of cholesterol metabolism.

With a wider depth of knowledge in this specialty, a lipidologist can offer more treatment recommendations; they can run complex diagnostic tests to diagnose or predict other diseases that correlate with specific lipid densities and sizes, such as metabolic syndrome and diabetes. In short, lipid specialists help reduce deaths related to high cholesterol and other lipid disorders.

Lipidologists’ goal is to enhance the practice of lipid management; this branch of medicine (lipidology) continues to evolve. Lipidologists primarily treat patients with disorders or disruptions in the amount of lipids in the blood (dyslipidemia). Lipids are fats, and normal levels are required for good health. Really high lipid levels can lead to illness and cardiovascular disease, including arterial blockage, heart attack, and stroke.

If you have very high cholesterol, have difficult treating your cholesterol, have a family history of early heart attacks, or a personal history of vascular disease (coronary artery disease), it’s best to consult with a board certified lipidologist to receive the most accurate treatment for your cholesterol problems. A lipid specialist can treat patients through drug therapy, diet changes, and lifestyle modifications.

The Foundation’s website is a great resource to learn more about Lipids. One example of a great resource on this site is the FCS Cookbook. The cookbook was created by the wife of a patient who was suffering from extremely high triglycerides levels and Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome, which is a rare hereditary condition where a person lack properly functioning lipoprotein lipase. (LPL). This woman created a cook book full of delicious recipes (husband and children approved) that are low in fat, which reduced his symptoms.

At Internal Medicine, Lipid & Wellness of Fort Myers, Dr. Kordonowy offers his patients an advanced cholesterol clinic, and those who can truly benefit from his expertise are those that suffering from high cholesterol, those who have complex cholesterol disorders, sufferers of familial hypercholesterolemia, and people with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Kordonowy’s expertise within this medical subspecialty has helped many patients increase their longevity, because they could effectively manage their difficult cases of high cholesterol.

To book a consult, click here or call 239-362-3005, ext. 200. Dr. Kordonowy is a concierge, patient membership physician in Fort Myers, and provides direct primary care services.

 

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How Chiropractic Can Help Ankle Pain

ankle painChiropractic can help reduce ankle pain without prescribing medication which may come with unwanted side effects.

Daily life is made far more difficult when you suffer from ankle pain.

Ankle issues can easily limit mobility. Lack of mobility puts a damper on lifestyle as well.  No more cute high heels or dress shoes to go out in – you are stuck in flats if walking is an option at all.

Our ankles take on a lot of pressure every single day. They support the weight of our entire body. On top of that, you may add pressure from climbing stairs, walking, running, jumping, and carrying heavy objects. It is vital that your body be in proper alignment with your ankles correctly supported.

In the United States each year more than 25,000 people per year visit a doctor specifically for ankle related pain. Studies have shown that despite this, close to 40% of sprains are not diagnosed or treated correctly. This misdiagnosis can lead to improper treatment or no treatment at all, leaving the patient in chronic pain and even risking disability later on in life.

The standard treatment for a sprained ankle is Rest Ice Compression Elevation (R.I.C.E.) The newer more widely accepted version of the protocol replaces “Rest” With “Movement”, making the acronym now M.I.C.E. The movement portion of the protocol should be done with a qualified physical therapist.

Chiropractic has shown tremendous benefit in relieving ankle pain. Your Chiropractor will use the same methods for diagnosis as would your medical doctor. Once the exact cause is pinpointed a treatment can be recommended and started.

Severe ankle injuries such as breaks and tears may require pain medication and anti-inflammatories. X-ray and MRI imaging may be used in the diagnosis.

Chiropractic is highly effective and completely non-invasive. It allows a natural approach to healing allowing the body to mend itself over time. Regular adjustments can help to strengthen the ankle increasing stability and even range of motion. It helps facilitate blood flow and circulation speeding healing and recovery. Diet and exercise change recommendations may be made if additional weight is being put on your ankles as well.

As normal motion is restored to the joint the inflammation will subside. As the inflammation dissipates so will the associated pain.

While chiropractic isn’t an instant fix, over the course of a few appointments you should notice a significant improvement in the state of your ankle as well as your overall wellbeing.

If you would like to find relief from pain call us today. 239-332-2555. Now serving Fort Myers, Florida, and all surrounding areas.

Chiropractor & Nutritionist in Fort Myers, FL.

Fort Myers Chiropractor, Dr. Jason B. KasterChiropractic care is a safe, alternative treatment when applied appropriately. Chiropractic treatments help in dealing with the symptoms of many conditions. Are you going to wait for your symptoms to be felt, or are you going to prevent them before they start?

Dr. Jason B. Kaster, a chiropractor, and nutritionist in Fort Myers can help you and your family achieve their optimal health.

      SCHEDULE NOW! 239-332-2555

The post How Chiropractic Can Help Ankle Pain appeared first on The Medical News Insider.

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Could Doing Yoga Benefit Your Vein Health?

yogaPeople seem to be turning to yoga classes to help with everything from stress to high blood pressure to even now varicose veins, but does it really work?

Yoga is a wonderful nonimpact exercise modality that virtually anyone can do at the beginner level. Even the more advanced poses have modifications for those just starting out. 

Can Yoga Benefit those with Varicose Veins?

Many with varicose veins do find a great deal of relief through some specific yoga poses. Doing yoga won’t heal your varicose veins nor can it prevent them but what it can do which is incredibly helpful is to alleviate the swelling and pain associated with vein conditions. 

Which Poses Have Been Shown To Help Vein Pain?

Mountain Pose

This pose is designed to help you relieve pressure in your legs, knees, and thighs. It is a standing position. Stand straight, arms at your sides, toes together. Neutral pelvis. Elongated chest and broaden collarbone area. Center your head and stand tall but soft.

Legs Up the Wall

This pose stimulates the lymphatic system and helps downgrade swelling. The legs up the wall pose positions you lying with your back flat on the floor walking your feet upwards straight in front of you until they’re at a 90-degree angle and flat on the wall. This position promotes healthy circulation.

Boat Pose

The boat yoga pose involves sitting on the floor with outstretched legs, focusing on the core area of the body. When you have a strong stable core it greatly lessens the pressure on your legs which in turn alleviates swelling and pain.

If you live with vein disease, doing yoga as a regular part of your exercise routine is a great addition to your exercise routine.  Should you find it isn’t enough and you would like to get your veins treated and dealt with on a more permanent basis medically we would be happy to help. Give Dr. Zuzga of The West Florida Vein Center a call today at (727) 712-3233 or visit online www.westfloridaveincenter.com to learn more. We have three convenient locations in the Tampa Bay Area.

The post Could Doing Yoga Benefit Your Vein Health? appeared first on The Medical News Insider.

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Life with a Pacemaker

pacemakerA pacemaker can save your life, but it is also sure to alter it as well.

Pacemakers have been designed to help your heart beat and control the rhythm, doing so in a way that is almost unnoticeable by the patient, it is important to remember that a pacemaker is still just an electronic device.

Pacemakers were designed to withstand the wear and tear that results from most normal activities.

This means that if you loved to exercise frequently or play sports before your pacemaker was inserted, you will most likely be able to continue normally, pending any specific recommendations from your physician. While strenuous activities are okay, including most contact sports, if you’re an avid hunter and use a rifle for hunting purposes you will need to rest the rifle on the shoulder that doesn’t have the device in order to avoid the full recoil of the rifle hitting the device. Also, any activity that involves significant repetitive shaking (e.g. using a jackhammer) you will need to avoid as well.

Be aware that having a pacemaker will require you to check in with your physician frequently, usually up to several times per year. Like any electronic device, pacemakers are subject to damage and susceptible to failure over time, so your physician will likely want to examine you about every 3 months to check for any issues. Your physician will also want to examine your heart and the further progression of your heart disease, in order to determine whether the pacemaker is still an effective and appropriate option for you. Because of the advancements in medical technology in recent years, depending on the type of pacemaker you have and if no in-person examination is required, your physician may be able to simply tap into your pacemaker’s functions remotely and check in on you periodically that way.

You’ll need to avoid exposure to any electronics that have strong magnetic fields, such as MRI machines. However, going through metal detectors at the airport or standing by electrical generators will not have any effect on the device. Also, small devices such as MP3 players and cell phones can be safely placed in your front shirt pocket directly over your heart without any concerns for disrupting the function of the device.

No pacemaker will last a lifetime. Depending on the activity level of the patient, as well as a variety of other external and internal factors, the average pacemaker will last 6 or 7 years, though they can last as few as 5 years and as many as 15 years.

How long a pacemaker lasts is generally dependent on the following factors:

  • The severity of the heart disease and the speed of its progression.
  • The overall age of the battery, as all pacemakers will grow weaker over time.
  • Whether the device has experienced any damage.
  • How much exposure the device has received to potentially disruptive electrical signals.

Part of the reason why it is so important to check in with your physician frequently is so that they can take note of exactly when your pacemaker’s battery begins to weaken or fail and replace it before any problems occur. Fortunately, the surgery involved in replacing a pacemaker generator or battery is much less involved than the original surgery to insert it, and patients typically recover, resume normal activities and are discharged from the hospital the same day.

Please check with your personal physician when determining the best lifestyle choices for you. If you are in the Tampa area and have any questions or concerns regarding pacemakers and ongoing care, schedule an appointment with the physicians at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates today by calling (813) 975-2800.

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Posted on

Do You Live in Florida and are Mysteriously Sick?

Florida red tide organophosphate Roundup You May Have “Red Tide Sickness”

This isn’t the same old naturally occurring Red Tide.

This devastatingly oversized unrelenting bloom has co-mingled with blue-green algae and stayed around for close to a year now. The release from Lake Okeechobee has been feeding it and growing it spurred on by our lack of drop in temperature this fall. The Red Tide bloom has grown to nearly the size of the state of Connecticut.

What you need to know:


The toxins released have killed our wildlife and hurt many local businesses. It is affecting not only water quality but because it can become aerosolized and carried in the wind, has also altered our air quality. The toxins released from the Red Tide (Brevetoxin) and Blue Green Algae (Cyanotoxin and Myostine) have mixed with the organophosphates released from agricultural companies such as US Sugar (Glyphosate (Monsanto’s RoundUp) and other pesticides and herbicides as well).

These airborne particles are making humans as well as pets sick. Many people are visiting frustrated doctor after frustrated doctor who have so far been unable to diagnose the bizarre range of symptoms leaving their patients lacking hope and feeling terrible.

Symptoms you may be experiencing:

Headache pain, Lethargy, Exhaustion, Frequent feelings of a head cold or flu, Itching eyes, Itchy face, Fever, Runny Nose, Watering eye (usually only one side), Glassy eyes, Blurry Vision, Tinnitus (ringing ears), Sensitivity to light, Memory problems, Muscle twitches similar to restless leg syndrome, Excess saliva, Brain fog, Agitation, Digestion problems, Heart Palpitations, Anxiety, Confusion, and even Depression. 

According to WINK NEWS (see video below start playing at 28 seconds), FAU researchers state that 100% of people tested so far have come back positive for Cyanotoxin (blue-green algae microcystin exposure) which lowers your immune system. 

Many are choosing to take the Cholinesterase RBC and Plasma blood test for pesticide toxicity (organophosphates) as well and are also coming up positive. It is vital to note that those reading the results on this test know that according to the CDC the lab values marked as acceptable are incorrect. Toxicity can present at just 40% of the top acceptable level.

So far, though there are a urine and blood test in a lab study setting for animals, we have found no local labs offering a Brevetoxin (red tide) blood test for humans.

Listen to what Reporter Chris Grisby had to say about the situation right here in SW FL.
He was let go from Wink News shortly after this shockingly honest report.

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Harmful Algae Toxins are Airborne and Could Cause Cancer

Doctors are warning people to stay away from toxic algae-infested water, because harmful toxins that could cause cancer are airborne.

Posted by Rick Scott Is Not For Florida on Thursday, September 27, 2018

If you are unexplainably ill in Southwest Florida we strongly urge you to give us a call and find out how you can do a neurotoxin cleanse to help heal your body from this exposure. Give the office of Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C. a call today at 239-332-2555 or visit www.drkasters.com. info@drkasters.com to send an email.

The post Do You Live in Florida and are Mysteriously Sick? appeared first on The Medical News Insider.