Health+Plus Clinic Archives

Uterine Fibroids: Ants at the Picnic

If you’ve ever discovered ants ruining your picnic, you know how something seemingly invisible can suddenly disrupt your day. Similarly, uterine fibroids are benign muscle tumors that often go unnoticed but can significantly impact your life when they grow in size or number.

plaid with fruits and straw hat in field — Photo by Mariam Antadze on Pexels.com

The Unseen Enemy

Think of your uterus as an upside-down, hollow bottle. Fibroids are essentially “unwanted tenants” that can develop within the walls, inside the cavity, or even on the surface of this anatomical “real estate.”

Although small fibroids are generally symptomless, as they grow, they can cause a range of problems— from pelvic pain and heavy menstrual bleeding to feelings of fullness in the lower abdomen, rectal pressure, bladder-related symptoms and even lower back aches. The larger they get, the more likely they are to be symptomatic.

Your Diagnostic Toolkit

Diagnosis is usually straightforward: a pelvic or trans-vaginal ultrasound often identifies these benign growths. Think of this test as a snapshot of your uterus, revealing the fibroids’ size and location.

What Causes Uterine Fibroids?

Physicians and researchers have identified several contributing elements linked to the growth of uterine fibroids, including low levels of Vitamin D, high estrogen, insufficient B6, and hypothyroidism. A comprehensive lab test can determine whether any of these factors are playing a role in your condition.

Do You Need Surgery?

Here’s where choices come into play. Not all fibroids require surgical removal. In fact, many can be managed by correcting dietary and lifestyle issues, allowing the body to naturally reduce the fibroids’ size and alleviate symptoms. However, if your fibroids are causing significant discomfort, surgery may be the best course of action.

The Takeaway

Uterine fibroids are often out of sight and out of mind, but when they make their presence felt, it’s often in disruptive ways. Fortunately, through early diagnosis and proactive lifestyle adjustments, you can often minimize their impact.

So, the next time you’re checking for ants at your picnic, consider this a reminder to also pay attention to other hidden aspects of your health. A little vigilance now can prevent a lot of discomfort later.

Contact us today at 816-625-4497 or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation and learn more. Wherever you are in the Kansas City area—Oak Grove, Independence, Grain Valley—we’re just a short drive away!

You’re Welcome, Annie!

Embracing Autumn: Tips from Health+Plus to Keep You Healthy

The air is getting cooler, the scent of burning firewood is in the air, and those vivid hues of amber, rust, and gold are taking over our beloved Missouri trees. Yes, autumn is knocking on our door, and here at Health+Plus we’re eager to ensure that your health remains at its peak during this transitional season.

man standing on pathway between trees — Photo by Taryn Elliott on Pexels.com

Gear Up for Flu Season

Flu and fall are, unfortunately, frequent companions. Stay ahead of the curve. One way is to pay close attention to your hygiene habits. Our hands are our primary contact with the world. Ensure they’re clean! While sanitizers are effective, a good wash with soap is your best bet.

Beware the Allergens

While autumn leaves are a treat for the eyes, they’re not always friendly to our noses:

– Stay Updated: Monitor local pollen counts. We’ll also be posting regular updates on our clinic’s social media channels.

– Home Sweet (Clean) Home: Regularly clean and dust your home, invest in good-quality air purifiers, and limit open windows during high pollen times.

Loving Your Skin in the Fall

As the moisture in the air decreases, your skin might feel the pinch:

– Upgrade Your Moisturizers: The lotions that worked in summer may not cut it now. Consider richer creams or ointments.

– Don’t Skip the Sunscreen: Clouds don’t block all UV rays. Ensure your skin is protected even on overcast days.

Keep the Energy Up!

Cooler weather can tempt us to hibernate, but let’s stay active:

– Embrace the Season. From enjoying the colors at the park to participating in local fall-themed runs and events, there’s so much to do!

Nurture Your Mental Health

The diminishing daylight can sometimes cast a shadow on our spirits:

– Community Gatherings: From our annual Fall Festivals to smaller events, stay connected with your community.

– Seek Support: If you or someone you know feels affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or just the changing seasons, reach out. Our team at Health+Plus is here to help.

Savor the Fall Harvest

The earth is generous this time of year:

– Visit the local Farmers’ Market: Stock up on seasonal produce like pumpkins, squash, and apples.

– Warm Meals: Shift from cool summer dishes to warm, nourishing meals. If you need recipe ideas, we’ll be sharing some on our website soon!

Wrapping Up the Season with Health+Plus

As we all wrap ourselves in cozy blankets and look forward to the festivities, let’s also wrap up our health routines. Join us in celebrating autumn with health, wellness, and the warmth of our Health+Plus spirit. Here’s to a wonderful fall season!

Learn more about ways we can help you by calling 816-625-4497 or use our contact page. We would love to help you take proactive steps today to ensure a healthier tomorrow.

What Kind of Protein Should You Eat?

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Patient Care is Our Priority!

The Protein Predicament: Animal, Plant, or Both?

The Protein Predicament: Animal, Plant, or Both?

By Dr. David B. Clark DABCI, NMD, DC

The importance of protein in our diet is a well-accepted fact. It’s crucial for growth, cellular repair, and immune function. However, as much as health experts agree on the necessity of protein, the ‘how much’ and ‘what kind’ of protein are points of disagreement. Should we get our protein solely from plants, animals, or a combination of both? How much protein is ideal?

At Health+Plus Clinic, we aim to provide a balanced perspective on this contentious issue to help you make informed dietary choices. Let’s take a look at it more closely.

Understanding Protein

Protein is a macronutrient made up of smaller units known as amino acids. These amino acids are categorized as essential (cannot be synthesized by the body) and non-essential (can be synthesized by the body). The primary point of divergence between animal and plant proteins lies in their amino acid profiles and other associated nutrients.

Animal Protein

Animal-source proteins, including meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy foods, are often referred to as complete proteins. This means they contain all essential amino acids in sufficient quantities. Moreover, they are rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Plant Protein

Plant proteins, derived from legumes, grains, nuts, and seeds, are generally not considered complete proteins because they lack one or more essential amino acids. However, by combining different sources of plant protein, you can still obtain a complete amino acid profile. Additionally, plant proteins are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and are generally lower in saturated fats.

Digestibility

It’s true that plant proteins typically require more effort to be completely digested compared to animal proteins. This is due to the presence of certain anti-nutrients like phytates and oxalates that can inhibit absorption. However, cooking, fermenting, or sprouting plant foods can significantly improve nutrient availability.

Nutritional Requirements

The average adult should consume between 3 to 4 ounces (approximately 80 to 110 grams) of protein daily. For pregnant or nursing women and individuals over 65, the higher end of this scale is recommended. Around one-third of your daily caloric intake should ideally come from protein sources, whether animal-based, plant-based, or a mix of both.

Ethical and Environmental Considerations

Beyond the nutritional aspects, many people consider the ethical and environmental implications of their protein choices. Animal farming often has a more significant environmental impact in terms of land use, water consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. On the other hand, a diet overly reliant on monocrops like soy can also pose sustainability challenges.

Whether animal or plant protein is better for you can depend on numerous factors such as lifestyle, pre-existing health conditions, ethical beliefs, and nutritional needs. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

At Health+Plus Clinic, we recommend a balanced approach to diet and nutrition, focusing on whole, unprocessed foods. If you have specific dietary concerns or health conditions, consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance is always the best course of action.

Kind Words from Our Patients!

Why Intravenous Vitamin Therapy?

By Dr. David B. Clark DABCI, NMD, DC

Health+Plus is renowned for its expertise in intravenous nutritional therapy. Over the years, our specially trained team has safely administered thousands of vitamin IVs without complications at our Oak Grove, Missouri location.

Intravenous nutritional therapy is a safe and effective way to quickly replenish vitamins, minerals, and amino acids in the body. Read on to see if it’s right for you.

medication pills isolated on yellow background — Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels.com

Why Consider IV Nutritional Therapy?

There are many reasons why people opt for IV nutritional therapy. Some individuals suffer from chronic malnutrition due to various factors, such as poor diet, illness, or the natural aging process. A common issue is that many people don’t consume enough nutritionally dense food. Americans often eat a high amount of ‘junk food’—food that is rich in calories but poor in essential nutrients. Over time, this leads to deficiencies in the vital building blocks necessary for optimal health.

Others may have difficulty swallowing or digesting food, making it challenging to obtain the nutrients they need from food alone. IV nutritional therapy is also useful for those recovering from surgery or illness, as well as for individuals simply looking to boost their overall health and well-being.

Benefits of IV Nutritional Therapy

Here are some of the key advantages:

Direct Absorption: It bypasses the digestive system, allowing nutrients to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream and delivered to cells throughout the body. This results in higher absorption rates and less waste.

High-Dose Nutrients: IV therapy can deliver higher doses of nutrients than what can be ingested orally. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who are severely deficient in certain nutrients or who need to boost their nutrient intake for therapeutic reasons. For example, high-dose vitamin C has been shown to strengthen the immune system, aid in toxin removal, speed up wound healing, stimulate collagen production, and boost energy levels.

Fast Acting: IV nutrients can begin to work within minutes, offering quick relief from symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and muscle pain.

Ideal for Certain Conditions: For patients with difficulty swallowing, loss of appetite, or dehydration, IV therapy is exceptionally effective. It generally helps an ill person begin to feel better quickly.

Safe and Effective: IV nutritional therapy has been used safely for many years and is considered to be a highly effective way to improve overall health and well-being.

If you’re considering IV nutritional therapy, the Health+Plus team of medical professionals can help you determine if this treatment is the right choice for your individual needs.

Contact us today at 816-625-4497 or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation and learn more about the benefits of IV nutritional therapy. Wherever you are in the area—Oak Grove, Kansas City, Independence, Grain Valley—we’re just a short drive away!

The Science and Benefits of Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy

The Science and Benefits of Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy

By Melissa Abramovitz APRN/FNP-BC

As we delve into the complex world of medical science, one can’t help but notice the intriguing concept of Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy, often abbreviated as BHRT. Many people are drawn to its potential benefits, yet they find themselves puzzled by the ‘bio-identical’ aspect. To fully understand and appreciate BHRT, it’s essential to grasp the fundamental role hormones play in our bodies and how BHRT’s unique approach differentiates it from traditional hormone therapies.

Understanding Hormones

Hormones are intricate molecules produced naturally in our bodies. They function as the body’s internal messaging system, traveling through the bloodstream to various tissues and organs, inciting responses crucial to maintaining optimal health. At a microscopic level, each hormone molecule bears a unique shape. This unique shape is key to their function. As hormones travel through the body, they interact with ‘receptors’, specific structures within cells. Like a lock and key system, a receptor only responds when it encounters a hormone – the ‘key’ – with a shape that precisely matches its own. This specific interaction triggers a cascade of events within the cell, which leads to specific physiological responses.

The Bio-Identical Aspect

Bio-Identical Hormones are identical in molecular structure to the hormones our bodies produce naturally. These hormones are meticulously engineered from plant sources like yams or soybeans to mimic the exact shape of natural hormones. As such, bio-identical hormones fit perfectly into our body’s receptors, effectively ‘unlocking’ the same responses as our body’s own hormones would.

The key advantage of this exact match lies in the precision with which bio-identical hormones interact with our body’s receptors. As these molecules perfectly mirror the hormones our bodies produce, they can seamlessly integrate into our body’s hormone signaling system, potentially leading to a more natural and efficient hormonal balance.

The Shortcomings of Synthetic Hormones

In contrast, synthetic hormones – the type often used in conventional hormone replacement therapies – are not an exact match to our body’s hormones. While they are similar and can elicit some of the same responses, their differing molecular structure can cause them to interact imperfectly with our body’s receptors.

This imperfect fit can result in different reactions within the body, potentially leading to side effects or even harmful consequences that you wouldn’t experience with natural hormones. In short, synthetic hormones may resemble the keys our body is accustomed to, but they are not identical, leading to less predictable and potentially undesirable results.

The Pharmaceutical Dilemma

A significant reason why the pharmaceutical industry has traditionally leaned towards synthetic hormones over bio-identical ones is a matter of patent law. Natural molecules, including hormones, cannot be patented, making them less profitable than synthetic alternatives that can be uniquely designed and patented.

Consequently, bio-identical hormones have often been overlooked by large pharmaceutical companies. However, they have found a niche in specialty pharmacies. These pharmacies custom-make bio-identical hormones using all-natural ingredients, adhering to rigorous regulation standards to ensure quality and safety.

At Health+Plus, we have experienced Health Care Providers ready to help you with Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT). We believe it represents a promising approach to hormone therapy by using hormones identical to those our bodies produce, aligning closely with our body’s natural systems. This potentially provides a safer and more effective alternative to traditional synthetic hormone therapies.

Learn more by calling 816-625-4497 or use our contact page. We would love to help you take proactive steps today to ensure a healthier tomorrow.

What Patients Say…

What Patients Say…

Learn why our patients keep coming back! Call 816-625-4497 or use our contact page. We would love to help you take proactive steps today to ensure a healthier tomorrow.