Finding the True Harmony within you

PMS -Managing the Madness

PMS – Managing the Madness.

80% of women report experiencing premenstrual symptoms of some kind.  PMS symptoms can be emotional or physical and occur monthly, only1-2 weeks before period bleeding starts. 5 % of these women feel that their PMS symptoms adversely affect their lives.  There are over 150 different symptoms associated with PMS; including anxiousness, depression, irritability, mood changes, fatigue, breast tenderness, food cravings, bloating, headache and digestive complaints. 

Many research studies have tried to get clear answers as to the cause of PMS symptoms but nothing conclusive has been found. Some research studies suggests that women with PMS have lower serotonin levels after ovulation than women who report NO PMS symptoms. A few of these studies point to the metabolism of fluctuating sex hormones that are influencing serotonin levels.  While other research points to nutritional deficits and blood flow as major contributors to PMS symptoms. And yet other studies suggest social and cultural influences, stress and pre-existing depression affect how women experience PMS. A meta- analysis (a study of all the studies) done in 2012 by researchers at The University of Toronto claim that PMS does not exist because research on PMS has given so many different conclusions. 

 So….. is PMS just a myth? Or are the causes of PMS so varied, complex and different from person to person that the double-blind, placebo controlled research model cannot pin point the cause?

Although we have no divine answer as to the cause of PMS, there is a thread that runs through the information research has been able to provide.  That thread is that one body system is having a direct affect on another. 
Nutritional deficits and blood flow will effect how well our endocrine system functions.  The endocrine system
has an effect on the neuroendocrine system which affects mood, fatigue, food cravings, and can then influence blood flow and endocrine function.  The balance of the sex hormones; estrogen, progesterone and testosterone, most likely are NOT a stand-alone cause of PMS symptoms.

So regardless of the cause of a woman’s PMS, affecting and improving blood flow, nutrition and endocrine function is likely to improve PMS symptoms.  It is very important to see your doctor if PMS symptoms are interfering with your daily life and to rule out any underlying medical conditions. 

Exercise and massage are two easy ways to improve blood flow. Exercising has many health benefits and ncreasing blood flow is one of them. Massage, like exercising, improves blood flow by compressing the soft tissue to pump blood through the body but also loosens soft tissue to decrease constriction of blood flow.  Increased blood flow improves oxygen and nutrient delivery to cells and increases waste/toxin removal from the body.

Women can improve nutrient intake by improving their diets, a simple answer that leads to a challenging task.  MANY clinical studies have shown that avoiding refined sugars, processed food and diary significantly improve the PMS symptoms that women experience. 

Improving Endocrine function. What does that mean? Our endocrine system includes, but is not limited to, the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, and the ovaries (testes in males). We can support our endocrine system by making sure the glands get the nutrients they need to function properly by eating a nutritious well balanced diet and upporting proper blood flow.  We can also supplement certain nutrients and herbs that support gland function, such as B vitamins, Vitamin C, and Ashwagandha for Thyroid and Adrenal Gland function.

There are many ways to improve PMS symptoms and first-line treatments should focus on blood flow, nutrients, and endocrine function.  Treatments will vary depending on specific PMS symptoms, either physical or emotional. Whether or not PMS is a myth, it is something that most women experience associated with their menstrual
cycles. PMS symptoms can be managed through lifestyle changes and natural therapies. Women should discuss their PMS symptoms with their doctor to determine what route of treatment is appropriate for their symptoms and to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Dr. Denise Grobe, Naturopathic Physician at the Center for True Harmony Wellness and Medicine specializes in Women’s Medicine. 480-539-6646.

Food Plan for the True Harmony 2012 Cleanse/Detox

True Harmony’s Gentle Liver Cleanse

Liver Cleansing Diet: Food Recommendations

To be followed for 10-14 days

 Breakfast

• Fruit
• Choose organic fruit only – apples, pears, berries, grapefruit, pineapple, papaya
• Do NOT have juice Only
• May be combined with UltraClear or UltraMeal 360 as a smoothie

 Lunch/Dinner

• Eat mostly fresh vegetables, choose organic if possible to eliminate pesticides
• Steamed Fresh vegetables for easy digestion: broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, carrots, spinach, onions, kale, asparagus, peas, green beans
• Baked vegetables : sweet potatoes, yams, squash
• Salads:  mixed greens and vegetables,
  • Dressing: olive oil, lemon, garlic
• Whole Grains: brown rice, quinoa, millet, amaranth - limit to ¾ cup cooked each day

Drink

• Herbal teas – do not add dairy, dairy alternative or sweeteners
  • Drink 2 or more cups of teas daily
• Water: ½ your weight in ounces of water daily

 AVOID

• Meat: red meat, poultry, fish, seafood
• Eggs
• Dairy – milk, cheese, yogurt, butter
• Breads, pastas, crackers
• Corn
• Soy
• Grains – other than what is listed above for lunch/dinner recommendations
• Beans
• Salt
• Alcohol
• Coffee
• Fried foods

True Harmony will be hosting this cleanse as our April activity. Look out on our facebook page to find support, tips and suggestions during the cleanse. Share your experiences with us! www.facebook.com/CenterforTrueHarmony

 Dr. Grobe, NMD constructed this cleanse for our True Harmony community. If you have any chronic or severe medical conditions, you should consult with your physician before attempting any detox/cleanse, or come in and consult with Dr. Grobe ND herself.

True Harmony Spring Cleanse 2012

True Harmony Spring Cleanse 2012

Who can Benefit from a Cleanse- Cleansing can help with the following conditions:
PMS
Bloating
... Catalyst to restart a Diet
Clear out Liver and Intestinal Toxins
Losing Weight
Improve overall Health
Cleanse Gut
Increase Energy
*Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding moms.
*If you have any chronic or severe medical conditions, you should consult with your physician before attempting any detox or cleanse.

Cleanse Description: This is a food based liver cleanse. YOU WILL EAT! This is 10 days long, and can be done with just the food regime we outline, or with added support to more fully cleanse the Liver, Gut and Intestines.

Why Should I Cleanse?: Feel better after your cleanse is complete! Cleansing and detoxing is a great way to jumpstart your body’s natural mechanisms. Get your diet, gut, weight, and elimination back on track with a Spring Cleanse.

OUR SUGGESTION:
1. Follow the food outline that Dr. Grobe ND has come up with for 10 days, starting April 16. Let us know your questions and feedback on facebook or through email. www.facebook.com/CenterforTrueHarmony or info@trueharmonywellness.com. With using just the food portion of the cleanse, you will get to experience a nice gentle cleanse!

2. To get improved results and a deeper detox, you will want to supplement your cleanse with the cofactors needed to complete the 3 phases of cleansing. To do this, we suggest you purchase the Cleanse kits by Metagenics that we now have on sale at the office. You will get one container of UltraClear to improve the depth of your Liver Cleanse, a bottle of AdvaClear to help your gut and intestines, a shaker bottle, plus an added booklet of support material. No appointment needed to purchase the cleanse. The kits are discounted this month! You only need one kit to complete your cleanse!

3. If you want more detailed information or a customized cleanse for your specific health journey, make an appointment with Dr. Grobe ND.
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A Natural Option for Treatment of Cervical Dysplasia/Abnormal Pap

A Natural Option for Treatment  of Cervical Dysplasia/Abnormal Pap

 

What is Cervical Dysplasia - Cervical dysplasia refers to abnormal changes in the cells on the surface of the cervix that are seen underneath a microscope. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that opens at the top of the vagina. These changes are NOT CANCER, but they can lead to cancer of the cervix if not treated.

 

Escharotic Treatments - the Natural Option

 

With the recent attention to the HPV cause of cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer and the limitations of the HPV vaccine, it is reassuring for women to know that they have treatment options.  We know that not all women with an HPV infection develop cervical dysplasia or cervical cancer.  It is, therefore, suggested that there are multiple factors contributing to the progression of the disease.  Such factors as immune function and nutrient depletion can be altered and supported.  By treating nutrient deficiencies and supporting the immune system dysplastic lesion can regress.  Studies have shown that specific dietary changes, supplementation, and topical (escharotic) treatments can improve lesion status and prevent cervical cancer.  

 

An Escharotic treatment is an alternative Naturopathic treatment that is indicated for patients that have moderate to severe cervical dysplasia.

This in-office treatment procedure that consists of a botanical and mineral mixture being applied topically to the cervix to stimulate abnormal cell death and healthy cell growth (Alt Med Rv, May2003, Marshall). These are specific botanicals and minerals that are used to target the abnormally growing cells and cause the cells to die off. An added benefit is that an Escharotic treatment targets abnormally growing cells only. This lessens the risk of scarring and damage to the cervix and also make the procedure more efficient than treatments involving the removal of cervical tissue. Moreover it utilizes and enhances the body's own ability to heal itself. In conjunction with the topical treatments, suppositories, supplements, and dietary changes are prescribed as part of the treatment protocol.  These suppositories, supplements, and dietary changes stimulate the immune system and heal the cervix.

 

For milder cases of cervical dysplasia, only suppositories, supplements, and dietary changes are used. This is mostly recommended for low grade cervical dysplasia that persist or in older patients.

 

Dr. Denise Grobe ND practices at the Center for True Harmony Wellness and Medicine in Mesa AZ. She specializes in integrative medicine, gut health, metabolic syndrome, weightloss, hormones, and women’s medicine. She is accepting new patients and has free health lectures monthly. To contact her: 480-539-6646 or info@trueharmonywellness.com. You can find more information about Dr. Grobe at www.trueharmonywellness.com

January 2012 Specials - WeightLoss Specials

Lose Weight, affordably, and in the healthy way to keep it off!

January 2012 Specials!

 

Meal Plan- LOSE WEIGHT for Good! 

This month at True Harmony, get your weight loss plan created by a Doctor, and do it Right this year!  Dr. Grobe ND will spend time with you to assess where you are now, and determine the best road for you to reach you goal weight. This new year, bring health, wellness and a smaller jean size into your life. If you choose the longer program, called First Line therapy, you will get 10% off each of your visits! (excludes those billable to insurance, cashpay only) Learn more about our First Line Therapy program

 

HERBAL MEDICINARY RETAIL- All TEAS on SALE!!!!

Receive 10% off our Tea line! We have teas specially blended to support PREGNANCY, to relieve and aid DIGESTION, to enhance FERTILITY, to squelch NAUSEA, to relieve HEADACHES, to aid SLEEPYTIME, to enhance your daily NUTRIENTS, to bring COOLING. Learn more about our TRUE HARMONY TEA LINE

 

RETAIL- Metagenics Meal Replacement Sale!

Low Glycemic, High Protein, Good for You Meal Replacements ~ When you start your New Year's Diet on January 1, try the effective diet that consists of 5-6 small meals a day! By eating, highly digestible, well balanced small meals, your metabolism will keep pumping, and you'll get a jump start on improving your blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels and blood pressure! Utilizing the Metagenics Meal Replacement Shakes and Bars is a great way to support a healthy diet and renewed lifestyle! Buy these products when you are in the office and get 10% for the Month of January! Learn more about our Metagenics products

Herbal Consultations now at True Harmony

Herbal Medicine Consultations now offered as part of our spa services at the Center for True Harmony!

Herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years to support and maintain health.  It helps support the body’s innate ability to heal itself. Herbal medicine, in dried herb and tincture form, helps balance the body’s systems when suffering from any of the following ailments:

Arthritis, Digestion Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Sleep Disturbances, Insomnia, Fatigue, Muscle Pain, Headaches, Food Allergies or Sensitivities and Pregnancy Support

Seasonal Conditions: Asthma, Bronchitis, Colds, the Flu and other Viral Infections

Gynecological Conditions: Menopause, Painful Monthly Cycles, Hormonal Imbalance

 

During this one-hour appointment the Herbalist will:

 Discuss your overall health history

• Determine your primary health concern
• Create a custom herbal formula for you 

 All herbal teas and tinctures dispensed by the Herbalist will first be approved by the Naturopathic Doctor and will compliment other therapies you may already be using.

The initial visit is a $70 fee, but you can use one of your Wellness Membership appointments or the Spa Upgrade option to get your visit for only $39

 Herbal Consultation Follow Up

 After you have been using your herbal formula for a period of time you will return for a 20 minute follow up appointment with the Herbalist to:

 Determine how the herbal formula is working for you

• Discuss any improvements or changes in your health since taking the herbs
• Adjust the formula, if needed

This vist is $40.

 Herbal Focused Consultation

 For established clients who want to work on a new health concern using the help of herbal medicine. During this 45 minute to 1 hour appointment the Herbalist will:

 Review of your health history

• Discuss your new primary health concern
• Come up with a custom herbal formula to help you

 All formulations will be approved by the Naturopathic Doctor and are intended to compliment your other therapies.

 This visit is $50.

About the Herbal Consultant: Rachel Anne Nemetz is a Western Herbalist, Holistic Nutritionist, Yoga Teacher, and Holistic Lifestyle Expert. She holds a Holistic Healthcare degree with specialties in Western Herbalism and Holistic Nutrition from Southwest Institute of Healing Arts in Tempe, AZ. Rachel has a passion for women’s health, native medicinal plants and holistic lifestyle education. Having experienced first hand the healing power of herbs, she loves making custom herbal formulations and finding creative solutions to help her clients find balance in their lives.
As a nutritionist, Rachel believes strongly in the philosophy of making ‘food thy medicine.’ She makes fabulous tasting recipes and shares ideas with her clients on how to incorporate healthy foods into their diets.
A professional performer for over 20 years, Rachel holds a BFA in Muscial Theatre from Emerson College in Boston, MA. Combining two passions, art and environmentalism, she created the organic cotton clothing line, Organyx by RachelAnne in 2006. She uses her organyx lifestyle blog as a platform to educate others on holistic lifestyle topics, such as the importance of organic farming and reducing everyday chemical exposure.
With over 10 years of yoga practice, Rachel became a Yoga Instructor in 2008 through YogaWorks in Santa Monica, CA. She has additional training at the Sri K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, South India. Rachel enjoys writing on holistic healthcare topics, spending time outdoors, travel, film, music and hula hooping!

CONTACT:  Center for True Harmony Wellness & Medicine™ , an integrated medical office and spa is an for men, women and families. We are located just off the SouthWest corner of CountryClub Dr and Baseline in Mesa Arizona 85210 . To contact this author, the office or our practitioners: info@trueharmonywellness or 480-539-6646.

 

 

Help! Can a Woman's Monthly Cycle Be Easier to Manage?

Women of all ages have varying thoughts about their monthly menstrual cycle. Many women in America struggle with irregular and/or ‘high maintenance’ cycles. An established procedure that is getting more popular recently has been taking front stage in combating these high maintenance cycles. This procedure is called an Endometrial Ablation, and one of the most popular forms is the Novasure .

Sometimes women are not aware that they have a common condition called menorrhagia. Menorrhagia is the medical term for unusually heavy bleeding. An answer of YES to any of the following questions can help women begin to decipher whether they may have this condition… Have you been suffering from heavy periods? Do you need to use both a pad and a tampon? Are you bleeding into your clothing or bedding or passing large clots of blood? Are you enduring fatigue, PMS, and anxiety? Do you have to cancel social plans, miss work, or avoid sexual activity due to heavy periods?

The great news is that menorrhagia can be easily treated without hormones or a hysterectomy. This is such a welcomed thought because of the huge physical and emotional impact on a woman that is experiencing heavy or long-lasting periods. For women whose families are complete, True Harmony is happy to now be offering a safe and effective endometrial ablation treatment called Novasure, in the office setting. It is a minimally invasive procedure that delivers 90 seconds of precisely controlled radio frequency to remove (ablate) the lining of the uterus. The procedure is done in the office and does not require general anesthesia or open skin incision. Recovery time is minimal and results are outstanding. After the procedure, most women see a significant decrease in the bleeding, and some have no bleeding at all.

Dr. Brass-Jones, Board Certified OB/GYN says this about the procedure and its effects.

"When patients come to me concerning about heavy bleeding(menorrhagia) or irregular bleeding and an alternative procedure I discuss, with them, Novasure. It has an average 90 second treatment time and they experience no pain and minimal cramping post procedure. There is no side effect of hormones or the risk of a hysterectomy. Not one patient who has had the procedure done has ever regretted their decision."

As with all medical procedures, there are some risks involved and there are some patients for whom these procedures are not the best choice. You should talk with your provider about which method would be best suited for your needs.

FREQUENTY ASKED QUESTINS:

Will this stop my period?

Most patients will see a significant decrease in bleeding. Some will have no periods at all or minimal monthly spotting after the procedure.

Is this a method of birth control?

No, there is still a small chance of becoming pregnant after having endometrial ablation. The procedure can be combined with permanent sterilization such as Essure or Adiana to prevent pregnancy.

CONTACT:  Center for True Harmony Wellness & Medicine™, an integrated medical office and spa for men, women and families . We are located just off the SouthWest corner of CountryClub Dr and Baseline in Mesa Arizona 85210 . To contact this author, the office or our practitioners: info@trueharmonywellness or 480-539-6646.