WINTER HEALTH

How’s your winter health?  As virus’ and bacteria rage war on the human species primarily in the northern hemisphere, consider the following tips when managing yourself through these frigid months:

1. STAY HYDRATED (water 80-120 oz./day) – Helps support a strong immune response and reduces episodes of bloody noses, hemorrhoids, and fissures (anal cracking/drying).
2. FIND TIME TO EXERCISE – Don’t let these months keep you home-bound.  30 min. of productive exercise at least 3 times a week.
3. EAT HEALTHY – Avoid an overindulgence of those comfort foods.  Eat your fruits and veggies.  Have a smoothie.
4. VITAMIN/MINERAL SUPPLEMENTATION – Calcium/magnesium/zinc with vitamin C/D and a B complex supplement will help boost your immune system.
5. GOOD NIGHTS REST – 7-8 hrs.  We are more susceptible to infection at this time of the year, and a good nights rest helps recharge our hormones improving our immune response.
6. KEEP WARM – Plan ahead and dress appropriately for the conditions.
7. NASAL SALINE (simply saline or ocean) – What and why?  Dust/allergen exposure and drying of our nasal passages can lead to possible upper respiratory symptoms.  Rinsing and moisturizing these passages can help prevent secondary infections.
8. LIGHT THERAPY – Can be very beneficial depending on your location and sun exposure.

Please call, drop us a line or come by for a visit any time.

We hope you all have a happy and productive 2017.

Remember Health leads to Happiness.

Man Alive Team

LOW ENERGY?

TAKE A MINUTE TO ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS AND CONSIDER RE-EVALUATION OF YOUR DAILY SCHEDULE AND A VISIT TO YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER.

1. TOO MUCH SUGAR?
2. ARE YOU EXERCISING ENOUGH?
3. SKIPPING BREAKFAST?
4. TOO SEDENTARY?
5. TOO MUCH CAFFEINE?
6. DEHYDRATION?
7. SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER (SAD)?
8. VITAMIN DEFICIENCY – VIT. D AND B12?
9. HORMONE ABNORMALITY – LOW TESTOSTERONE, ETC.?
10. POOR POSTURE?
11. SMART SNACKING?

MAN ALIVE TEAM

http://www.everydayhealth.com/news/reasons-you-have-no-energy/?pos=1&xid=nl_EverydayHealthHealthyLiving_20161113

Low Testosterone in Portland Oregon

Men near Portland Oregon have been asking what is low testosterone?

Testosterone is a male hormone made by the body, which helps maintain reproductive tissue, stimulates sperm production, maintain sexual function, increase muscle mass and maintain bone strength. Low testosterone (Low T) is defined as 300ng/dL (nanograms per deciliter) of total testosterone and less than 5 ng/dL of free testosterone. Free testosterone is the amount of hormone not bound to other proteins. Low T in men living around Portland Oregon can indicate androgen deficiency if it is accompanied by low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, osteoporosis or fracture, and two or more of the following symptoms: sleep disturbance, depressed mood, a lack of energy or diminished physical performance. The prevalence of low T increases with age and affects roughly 39% of men over the age of 40.

At Man Alive, we don’t settle for normal, we strive for optimal levels of testosterone!

Why do we experience low testosterone?

1. The testicles reduce or stop producing testosterone.
2. The pituitary gland near our brain stops producing hormones that stimulate the production of our own testosterone.
3. Elevated estrogen and certain proteins.
And how does that happen?
– trauma to the testicles or brain
– illness or infection
– tumor or cyst to the testicles or pituitary gland
– radiation therapy
– medications
– aging

Symptoms of Low T in Men Living near Portland Oregon?

A decrease in testosterone is a natural occurrence in aging men. New research suggests that one out of four men over the age of 30 have low testosterone levels. Below are some common symptoms men with low testosterone can experience:
• Low Sex Drive: Testosterone plays a key role in a Portland man’s libido. Someone with low T will likely experience a drastic drop in the desire to have sex. Low T can also make it difficult to achieve an orgasm.
• Erectile Dysfunction: Testosterone alone does not produce an erection, but it does stimulate receptors in the brain to produce nitric oxide- a molecule that helps trigger an erection.
• Hair Loss: Balding is a natural part of the aging process for many men. Men suffering from low T can experience a loss of body and facial hair.
• Fatigue and Lack of Energy: If you are experiencing a loss of interest in some of your favorite physical activities or are finding yourself tired all the time, despite getting plenty of sleep, you could be suffering from low T.
• Loss of Muscle Mass: Testosterone is a major muscle-building hormone. When testosterone levels are low, muscle mass can deteriorate and strength levels can be compromised. The decline in muscle strength is one of the major symptoms that men often complain about who are suffering from low T.
• Increase in Body Fat: As a result of a loss in muscle mass, men that suffer from low T can experience weight gain, often exhibited in the stomach area. This can increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
• A decrease in Bone Mass: The weakening of the bones also referred to as osteoporosis, can affect men with low testosterone. Men with low T can experience bone loss because of testosterone aids in the production and strengthening of bones. Older men, who have suffered from low T for years and have not undergone testosterone replacement therapy, can be at a higher risk for bone fractures, usually in the hip, feet, ribs, and wrists.
• Mood Changes: Testosterone, while it drives a number of physical processes also boosts mood and mental capacity. Research has shown that men with low T are more likely to experience depression, irritability and lack of focus. Some men report trouble with memory and concentration, lower motivation and self-confidence.
• Increased Sweating: Profuse sweating, even with low impact activities can indicate low testosterone levels.
• Sleep Disturbances: Low testosterone can result in insomnia and other disturbances in sleep. Men often complain of not being able to get a good night’s rest and wake up feeling groggy the next day.

What is Andropause?

Andropause is oftentimes referred to as the “male menopause,” having superficial similarities to the menopause that affects women of a certain age. Both menopause and andropause are characterized by a drop in hormone levels; Estrogen in females, testosterone in males. But unlike menopause, where women see a drastic decrease in estrogen levels, the testosterone production in men decreases gradually and can span over decades. This gradual decrease can affect changes in mood and attitude, sex drive, and physical endurance.

Andropause is caused by a gradual decline in testosterone production and occurs from age 40 onwards in men. Between the ages of 50 and 70, some men report symptoms such as erectile dysfunction, general tiredness, mood changes, night sweats and even palpitations. In andropausal men, night sweats and palpitations can occur as a result of an overactive autonomic system in response to falling testosterone levels. Most Portland men attribute erectile dysfunction to be the most significant result of Andropause. Apart from erectile dysfunction, psychological changes can take place, too. Oftentimes andropausal men can suffer from nervousness, irritability and even depression.

Studies show that this decline in testosterone can put men at risk for other health problems such as heart disease and weak bones. Since all this happens at a time when many men begin to question their careers, accomplishments and overall direction in life, these factors can oftentimes be overlooked and linked to external conditions.

Potential benefits of testosterone therapy near Portland Oregon?
• Increase in energy
• Increase in sexual desire
• A decrease in irritability and depressed mood
• Improvement in cognitive function
• Increase in bone density

What are the potential health risks associated with Low T?

Low T not only affects your sexual health but your overall health. Adequate levels of testosterone help maintain reproductive tissues, energy levels, fat distribution, muscle mass and good bone health. Men with low T can experience bone loss because of testosterone aids in the production and strengthening of bones. Older men, who have suffered from low T for years and have not undergone testosterone replacement therapy, can be at a higher risk for bone fractures, usually in the hip, feet, ribs, and wrists. Men that suffer from low T can experience weight gain, which can increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease.

How do I know if my testosterone is low?

Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms associated with low T. You may feel as though you lack the energy you once had. Other symptoms can include a decrease in libido, loss of muscle mass, an increase in body fat, problems getting a good night’s sleep, a decrease in bone mass and mood changes. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important you contact us to schedule an appointment with an experienced doctor in hormone replacement therapy around Portland Oregon to determine if you have low testosterone or if these symptoms are the result of another medical condition.

How do I qualify for Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) if I live near Portland?

Our experienced team of doctors and medical professionals will review your medical history and give you a brief physical exam. A simple blood test will be done in our office, which will determine your testosterone levels.

Can men be too old for Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)?

There is no age limit for testosterone replacement therapy. However, with any medical procedure, your levels will need to be checked to determine if you are a good candidate for TRT.

All information provided is the result of our professional experience and personal opinions.
Call to Schedule an appointment.
360-984-5806

12 reasons why fee-for-service medicine is becoming popular

Why Fee-for-service medicine is becoming popular:

1. Reduced Cost!
2. More Choice and Ownership in one’s own health care management.
3. No insurance runaround regarding Pre-Existing Conditions.
4. No waiting for Prior Authorization (insurance approval) regarding a treatment plan or medications.
5. Patients know what they’re paying for. Full disclosure pricing. No Surprises!
6. Enhanced patient-focused experience and customer service.
7. Expedited and efficient health care delivery.
8. Patients may choose their Health Care Providers.
9. Patients with insurance also benefit!
10. Insured patients may receive the same reduced rates.
11. Patients may ask for a Health Insurance Claim Form (HCFA) or a bill after each visit. They can submit this form to their private insurance for either reimbursement or help pay down their deductible*.
12. Flexible spending account (FSA or Health spending/saving accounts – HSA) offer even greater pre-tax savings opportunity. Combine with a major medical insurance policy for peace of mind.

Come on in for a visit.

Man Alive Team

*If a medical office bills your insurance for a service, supplies, etc., it is unlawful to submit an HCFA form or bill to your insurance carrier for reimbursement associated with that same service or encounter.

All information provided is based on our professional experience and personal opinion.

Effective ways to reduce estrogen and INCREASE TESTOSTERONE

Natural ways to help reduce estrogen and improve testosterone levels:

• Lose weight – More importantly, lose body fat. Excess body fat is linked to excess estrogen.
• Short, intense exercise – 8 repetitions totaling a twenty-minute routine with strength training increases testosterone and reduces estrogen. Proceed with caution and under the direction of a medical professional!
• Consume ZINC – Foods such as cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale, brussels sprouts), shellfish, lean meat, nuts, and beans.  These are shown to regulate estrogen and increase testosterone.
• Avoid environmental estrogens – It’s impossible to avoid all environmental estrogens. However, avoiding meat products from animals raised with synthetic hormones is a right place to start. Plastic food wraps or food containers can leach estrogen into food. Shampoos and toiletries that contain parabens also include estrogens. Avoid these products when possible.
• Reduce soy and flax products – Both are very high in phytoestrogens. Many scientists believe that foods containing these products increase estrogen levels.
• Reduce or eliminate alcohol intake – Alcohol interferes with liver and kidney function, which in turn affects the body’s ability to regulate estrogen, testosterone and growth hormone.
• Limit or eliminate sugar and processed foods from your diet; increase healthy fats – mono and polyunsaturated as well as healthy saturated fats; vitamin D supplementation up to 8,000 iu., daily; reduce stress (cortisol) and get a good night’s sleep.

Four oral supplements that help reduce estrogen and enhance testosterone levels:

1. Zinc Orotate
2. Resveratrol derived from grape skin.
3. DIM
4. Calcium-D-Glucarate

Continue reading “Effective ways to reduce estrogen and INCREASE TESTOSTERONE” »

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – Is it for me?

There are a lot of questions, concerns, and confusion regarding HRT (hormone replacement therapy).  Some of these questions are: What types of HRT are there?  Is it safe?  Am I a candidate for treatment and how do I find out?  How, when and where do I start?

Two of the most common types of HRT that we sometimes don’t associate with hormone replacement is 1) Insulin for diabetes  2) Thyroid medication for thyroid gland abnormalities. Another well-known therapy is Estrogen and Progesterone used primarily as female hormone replacement.

Two forms of hormone replacement that have contributed to very positive and profound changes for many individuals:

1. TRT (testosterone replacement therapy), used in both men and women.
2. GHT (growth hormone therapy), also used in men and women.

Continue reading “Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – Is it for me?” »

Power Foods That Will Help Lower Your Cholesterol!

Robert Eckel, MD, an endocrinologist and past president of the American Heart Association states – Diet Makes a Difference.

If you follow the National Cholesterol Education Program’s (NCEP) Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLC) diet, or way of living — which entails reducing saturated fat and dietary cholesterol, losing weight, and eating more soluble fiber — you can slash your LDL cholesterol by as much as 20 to 30 percent.

In addition to cutting out cholesterol-raising foods, make sure you eat more of the following foods as part of your cholesterol-lowering plan.

·         Oats and Barley:  Whole grains are among the best sources of soluble fiber, which blocks your body’s ability to absorb cholesterol and “is your best friend” in lowering LDL cholesterol.

·         Beans and Other Legumes:  Beans, peas, lentils, and peanuts are also excellent sources of soluble fiber.

·         Green Tea:  According to a new meta-analysis of 14 studies, Green Tea significantly reduced total and LDL cholesterol levels.

·         Oils:  While butter and other solid fats raise cholesterol, the unsaturated fats in oils help lower it. Polyunsaturated fats, found primarily in corn, safflower, sesame, soybean, and sunflower oil, slash LDL cholesterol. Monounsaturated fats, found mainly in olive, avocado, and canola oil, not only lower LDL but may also raise HDL.

·         Nuts:  Good source of fiber, protein, and monounsaturated fats.

·         Plant Sterol- or Stanol-Fortified Foods:  These plant compounds are found naturally in small amounts in certain fruits and vegetables, oils, nuts, seeds, and grains.  Higher amounts may be found in certain fortified foods. They help prevent cholesterol from being absorbed, which can lower LDL without negatively impacting HDL cholesterol.

·         Soy:  High in fiber, low in saturated fat, and cholesterol free.  Soy is the only complete plant-based protein, which means it’s an equal swap for animal sources like meat and dairy.  However, soy is a phytoestrogen-containing food, therefore is may raise estrogen levels and in men, lower testosterone.  Flax products contain even more copious amounts phytoestrogen.  Beware.

·         Psyllium:  10 to 12 grams of blond psyllium per day can decrease LDL cholesterol by 5 to 10 percent.  i.e., Metamucil.

·         Red Wine or Grape Juice:  Red wine, because its polyphenol antioxidants, has shown that it can raise levels of good HDL cholesterol by as much as 5 to 15% and also lower LDL levels.  If you’re not into vino, grape juice can provide some of the same heart-healthy benefits.

·         Cocoa:  A meta-analysis in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that cocoa or dark chocolate consumption, in moderation, lowered LDL cholesterol by more than 5 mg/dL in people at risk of heart disease.

·         Tomatoes:  Consuming 25 mg of lycopene (the antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red pigment) daily can reduce LDL by about 10%.

·         Fruits and Vegetables:  Produce high in soluble fiber should ALWAYS be part of any cholesterol-lowering diet.

Man Alive Team DPM

Reference: http://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/high-cholesterol-pictures/power-foods-for-lower-cholesterol/#01

Quick Health Gauge and Tips

What is your BMI and waist measurement?

Do you know your blood pressure?

What is your cholesterol and triglyceride profile?

What is your blood sugar level and do you have a personal or family history of diabetes?

Do you have a personal or family history of heart disease?

Are you physically active?

Do you smoke or drink alcohol?

When you ask yourself these questions and take an honest inventory of your health, where do you stand?  These and other potential risk factors can help us better understand our health status.

The following are a few simple tips for healthy living and weight loss:

1. Eat a healthy breakfast with some proteins and fresh fruits. Drink water!
2. Stop eating until you’re full. Don’t top off your gas tank!
3. Use smaller plates, serve and eat smaller portions.
4. Split meals particularly at restaurants and share desserts.
5. Eat only when you’re hungry. Drink water!
6. Eat REAL foods: fruits, vegetables, meats, nuts, and seeds. Avoid processed foods!
7. Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid overcooking.
8. Avoid sodas and soft drinks. Drink more water!
9. Manage stress and reduce cortisol.
10. Get enough sleep. Allow time to recover and restore growth hormone levels.
11. Set realistic goals.
12. We need to move, so make time to exercise!!! And, oh yeah, drink more water!

Alarming fact: According to the CDC, 69% of adults age 20 + are overweight or obese.  WOW!

CHANGE is difficult, but it is imperative! It’s going to happen no matter what, however, YOU have the opportunity to direct that change. Allow us to be your healthcare partner and advocate as you implement positive change.

Man Alive Team

All information provided is based on expert consensus, our professional experience, and personal opinion.

TRT (Testosterone Replacement Therapy) – The Truth

THIS IS IMPORTANT!  Please take 30 minutes to listen to this lecture as Dr. Morgentaler uncovers the mistruth regarding inaccurate and controversial studies previously published on TRT (testosterone replacement therapy). It is very unfortunate how a select few and the media can portray erroneous information that can infuse gratuitous fear throughout society and influence the health of many. It is very important for men and women to understand the favorable impact that appropriately dosed testosterone can have on the lives of many.  Please understand that there are also treatment options available to help boost one’s natural testosterone levels.

Man Alive, LLC would like to be your partner in health, and explore the most effective treatment options available to YOU! Please join us and take charge of your health today.

Man Alive Team

Bioavailable Testosterone – What is YOURS?

As many of you know, there has been a great deal of interest regarding Low T and TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) over the recent years. Many believe that they can get a prescription of testosterone either by injection, topical or some other applications, and that’s it. Symptoms or problem resolved. WRONG!

Let’s shed some light on an important concept and provide an understanding of why we experience low levels of bioavailable testosterone, and why testosterone may not be the only appropriate treatment option.

We know that if you take two Hydrogen atoms and one Oxygen atom = (reaction or conversion) H2O (water). Therefore, if you take something (an element in this case) and combine it with another, you end up with something completely different.

This concept applies to men in the following way: Testosterone + Aromatase (an enzyme) = a reaction or (sero)conversion of testosterone to estradiol, a form of estrogen. So, we gotta face the facts guys, we ALL have that feminine side, we produce estrogen. Understand, this is a normal process of aging and small amounts of estrogen is beneficial, however, this conversion happens at a greater rate for many, therefore we may experience unwanted signs, symptoms and effects of elevated estrogen that can be potentially harmful or even dangerous in men.

You’ve seen those Ocean Liners that have been out to sea for a while and accumulate those pesky saltwater barnacles causing drag and reducing ship speed. These prevent the Vessel from reaching its peak performance. Well gents, our “barnacles within” is a protein called SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) which essentially attaches to testosterone reducing our bioavailable or usable testosterone.

There are three primary reasons for reduced bioavailable testosterone: 1. Reduced testosterone production (natural or acquired) 2. Aromatase (sero)conversion from testosterone to estradiol 3. The protein “barnacle” (SHBG) reduces usable testosterone.

Treatment or therapeutic options: 1. Dietary and Lifestyle modifications 2. TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) 3. Supplements or Prescriptions – Aromatase inhibitors 4. Supplements, dietary and lifestyle changes to reduce the SHBG protein.

These dietary and lifestyle changes combined with supplementation and/or prescriptions, will help reduce that drag we feel daily. As we curtail testosterone conversion, shed our “barnacles” (weight, bad habits and SHBG), we will feel better, more energy, and experience improvement in many aspects of our lives, thus allowing ourselves to function at “full steam ahead”.

Please schedule an appointment with a Man Alive Medical Professional to help you understand more about these conditions, determine what your bioavailable testosterone level is, and together discuss the best treatment options, tailored to your individual needs. The Man Alive Team is here to help you reach your full potential.

-The Man Alive Team

All information provided is based on expert consensus, our professional experience and personal opinion.