In the year 2000, it was reported that diabetes mellitus (DM) affects 171 million adults worldwide (O’Hagan, De Vito, & Boreham, 2013). By 2030, this statistic was estimated to increase an upward of 4.4 % to 366 million (O’Hagan, De Vito, & Boreham, 2013).
Obesity is one of the largest epidemics of modern times, and has been linked with several life threatening diseases such as Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease (Expert, 2014). In the United States, the prevalence of overweight and obesity has steadily risen over the past several decades. Between 1999-2016, obesity rates rose from 30.5% to 39.8% among adults ages 20 and older (Hales, Carroll, Fryar, & Ogden, 2017). Many factors have led to this increase, one of which is the overabundance and availability of convenience foods, and another the decline in cooking skills and nutrition knowledge (Saksena et al., 2018).
It is well established that exercise and nutrition have an important role in disease prevention and management. However, there are still gaps in the literature regarding best exercise prescription practices related to decreasing cardiovascular disease risk. In order to determine specific exercise recommendations, it is necessary to understand some of the most established cardiovascular risk factors and biomarkers. Individuals with obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, current smoker status, cardiovascular familial history, poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle are at highest risk for heart disease (Kannel & McGee, 1979). Articles focused on exercise specific to adipose tissue loss (obesity) and improvements in dyslipidemia, blood pressure, and cardiorespiratory fitness (ie. VO2max, heart rate, perceived exertion, etc.) were used to determine best practices in decreasing overall risk for heart disease.
Cholecystectomy may not be inconsequential from a metabolic standpoint. It is still considered the best treatment for symptomatic gallbladder disease, however studies have shown a strong association between gallbladder removal and the development of non-alcoholic liver disease (NAFLD) years after surgery (Nervi & Arrese, 2013); this association was not shown in patients who had gallstones and managed the symptoms with diet and medication.
August is national Kids Eat Right Month which focuses on the benefits of healthful eating and active lifestyles for kids and families. The importance of family mealtime has been studied since the 1970s, particularly on how it influences child language development and parent-child interaction (Catherine E. Snow, 2006). The discourse that occurs over dinnertime has been shown to provide rich information to children about the meaning of words and subsequently literary success (Catherine E. Snow, 2006). The benefits of family meals have also been studied in relation to behavior and dietary patterns.
Chronic pain affects millions of Americans and ranges in its origin and severity. Alternative medicine as a means for pain management has become increasingly popular in the Western world. One source of which is the Cannabis plant, which has been cultivated and used for medicinal purposes since ancient times (Shannon, Lewis, Lee, & Hughes, 2019). While the Cannabis plant contains more than 80 different chemicals, known as cannabinoids, the two most abundant are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). The former of which is known for its psychoactive properties, whereas the latter is known for its non-psychoactive properties (Shannon et al., 2019).
When we think of high-risk jobs, oftentimes hospital employees, police officers, and firefighters are thought of immediately. However, office workers are faced with an invisible danger, prolonged time spent sitting at their desk. This extended time spent sedentary may lead to poor posture, resulting in an increased risk for musculoskeletal injuries, cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and obesity. This article will focus on one of the more common forms of musculoskeletal conditions, with a prevalence of around 75%, neck pain is a major cause of morbidity and disability in many countries; affecting an individual’s daily life and work habits (Genebra, Maciel,, Bento, Simeão, & Vitta, 2017; Straker, Burgess-Limerick, Pollock, Murray, Netto, Coleman, & Skoss, 2008).
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months of life as it has numerous benefits to both the mother and baby (About Breastfeeding). While breastmilk provides all the nutrients that babies need, it is just as important to ensure the mother is getting proper nutrients as well. Nutrient requirements during lactation are increased to cover both the volume and concentration of breast milk (Bo Lonnerdal, 2016).
Turmeric is a popular Eastern spice grown throughout India, Asia, and Central America. It has been historically used in Ayurveda medicine for many chronic conditions, such as rheumatism, pain, and fatigue. Turmeric contains an active group of polyphenolic compounds, of which curcumin is the most well studied. Curcumin is thought to have potential benefits by reducing inflammation which is the body’s response to infection or injury. The Nuclear Factor-kappaB (NF-kB) pathway serves as a pivotal mediator in the inflammatory response and is usually deregulated in chronic conditions such as atherosclerosis and diabetes. The result is prolonged inflammation that increases tissue damage. However, initial studies have explored the therapeutic benefits of curcumin, which serves as a potent mediator in NF-kB pathway reducing inflammation in varying disease states. As for the health and safety of consumption, curcumin is a generally recognized as safe compound by the Food and Drug Administration. Overall, it seems that a dose as low as 80 mg/day of curcumin can provide health benefits for a generally individual. Although gastrointestinal upset has been seen among individuals in studies consuming large quantities, further research is needed to determine the full extent of benefits, bioavailability, and dose-response of turmeric. As with any trending topic in the nutrition field, it is important to consider one’s diet rather than focusing on a single nutrient when trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Allied Wellness is a prevention program that leads to a healthier lifestyle and an increase in overall quality of life.
Taylor Ann is a licensed, Doctor of Physical Therapy and is certified in dry needling. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Performance with a focus in Exercise Science and Wellness from the University of Tennessee and her doctorate degree in Physical Therapy at South College in Knoxville, Tennessee. Taylor Ann has worked with a variety of populations throughout her career as a Physical Therapist – from pediatric to geriatric patients. Her professional background includes assessing and treating a wide range of conditions, including general orthopedics, chronic pain, sports rehabilitation and neurological disorders. Her experience treating individuals in various stages of life and health has solidified her approach to assessments and treatments to be highly individualized to each patient. Manual interventions and implementations of dry needling are a few of Taylor Ann’s favorite techniques to utilize in the clinical setting. She also values addressing all aspects of health in her client’s plan of care in efforts to effectively enhance their quality of life. Utilizing her experience and insight as a clinician, Taylor Ann is passionate about working as a Health Coach and with the Allied Wellness team to provide individuals with evidence-based recommendations and resources to promote an overall improvement in health and wellbeing.
Elizabeth’s path to becoming a Registered Dietitian was not a straight path. She earned her first bachelor’s degree in International Studies from Texas State University with the intention of pursuing law school afterwards. However, there was an inner voice in her that told her she needed to follow her passion for nutrition and wellness. So, she went back to school to study human nutrition and dietetics. Elizabeth earned her second bachelor’s degree and graduated Magna Cum Ladue from the University of Houston in 2019 and came to complete her Dietetic Internship at the same university. In addition to learning about nutrition, Elizabeth became a Certified Personal Trainer and has been helping people achieve their fitness and wellness goals since 2015. When she’s not working with her patients, Elizabeth enjoys spending her down time working out, reading and being with her family and dog, Rascal.
Patty is a Licensed Dietitian and Allied Wellness health coach. She earned her first bachelor’s degree at the University of Manizales in Psychology. She then earned a second bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Sciences at the University of Cincinnati. Patty is fascinated with the relationship between the mind and body. One of her main pursuits involves identifying and learning about the most effective therapeutic techniques for achieving lasting behavioral changes, which leads to healthier and more fulfilled lives for individuals. Some of Patty’s other interests include cooking, traveling and learning about other cultures. She shares Allied Wellness’ firm belief that every person’s health and wellness journey is unique and there is no “one size fits all” approach to healthcare. She enjoys one-on-one interactions and strives to build and maintain solid relationships with her clients in order to offer them the best quality of treatment.
Julia earned her bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science at Texas State University and her master’s degree in Kinesiology at the University of Hawaii – Manoa. Throughout her career, Julia has been able to work with individuals of all ages and with highly diverse health statuses, including the chronically ill, disabled, injured, elite athletes, as well as the general population. After spending several years working in a clinical setting, she decided to venture into population health management in hopes of being able to reach and create a positive impact amongst larger groups of people by utilizing her knowledge and skills to help individuals improve their health in a holistic way. In her practice, Julia focuses on guiding individuals in establishing and maintaining strong support systems, better understanding their body and unique health needs, and motivating them to reach their full potential.
