Sunday, December 28, 2008

Acupuncture: Ancient technique for Modern Complaints

Acupuncture is one of the oldest treatments in the world. First accredited to the Chinese, archaeologists have discovered stone acupuncture needles dating back as far as 3000 B.C.! These days, stone needles have given way to more modern tools, but the concept is the same as it has always been: extremely slender needles – usually about the width of a human hair – are inserted through the skin to various depths. When inserted into the correct points, these minuscule needles stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissues, and increase crucial blood flow.

Acupuncture is equally great at treating specific complaints – such as headaches, for example – or general feelings of ill health or malaise. It has been used successfully to treat a large number of diseases, and to provide substantial relief from a range of symptoms. It can help in the process of overcoming addictions or emotional disorders. But you don't have to be sick to reap the benefits; by balancing the body's systems, acupuncture can assist in keeping you healthy and vital.

Acupuncture is drug-free and safe for anyone: even children, pregnant women (some points are contraindicated), and the elderly. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Institute of Health (NIH) are just two of the respected institutions that have acknowledged its beneficial effects. Whether you're in need of relief or fit as a fiddle and want to stay that way, there's something in it for you.

Labels: , ,

Monday, December 15, 2008

Mesotherapy: a Non-Surgical Approach to Body Sculpting

BEFORE


AFTER: 3 treatments over 6 weeks


Try as we might, there are just some spots that refuse to be dieted-and-exercised into submission. And to rid themselves once and for all of those “wobbly bits,” many people turn to liposuction. Sure, it works – if you don't mind surgery, lengthy downtime, painful recovery and the possibility of fat depositing to surrounding areas.

Mesotherapy, a naturally-derived alternative, delivers where liposuction falls short. First of all, it's a non-invasive procedure; small quantities of plant extracts, nutrients, and homeopathic elements are injected into the skin and upper fatty layer. These natural compounds emulsify fat in the cells, improve the fibrous connective tissues that contribute to the appearance of cellulite, and improve both blood flow and lymphatic drainage to the area. Mesotherapy is safe (thousands of treatments performed worldwide) and well-received by the vast majority of patients; side effects, include temporary bruising or tenderness, a much easier recovery than liposuction – and without the downtime. The procedure itself can be done with minimal discomfort, and patients are able to immediately resume their normal lifestyle. It's a fantastic choice for those who are seeking to lose the stubborn “pockets” of fat – in areas such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, and underneath the chin – without going under the knife.

We have a 75% success rate at removing unwanted fat. Check out our before and after photo gallery to see actual patient results!

Labels: , , , , ,

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Can Your Environment Increase Your Cancer Risk?

One of the scariest things about cancer is that it just happens, and it's often hard to know why, or what we could have done to avoid it. And in some cases, it really is unavoidable. But the good news is that an estimated eighty percent of cancers are caused by our immediate environment – which means that we do have some control over our cancer risk! By limiting our exposure to chemical compounds in the products we use, the food we eat and the water we drink, we can help protect ourselves.

Even chemicals that have been deemed “safe” can build up to unsafe levels after years of repeated exposure. And as the body ages, its ability to effectively purge itself of toxins diminishes. When the cells are inundated with toxic substances that they can't get rid of, mutations occur; cancer is a proliferation of these mutated cells.

We're surrounded by these toxins on a daily basis, from even the most unlikely sources. Here is just a small sampling of fairly common carcinogenic compounds:

-solvents such as benzene, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, methylene chloride, trichloroethylene

-asbestos, which can be found in older roofs, pipes, insulation, and many other products (over 5000 in all)

-dioxins, produced in part by the bleaching of paper products (including tampons and toilet paper)

While it's virtually impossible to avoid every environmental hazard, we can substantially cut our risk factor by being vigilant about what goes into (and onto) our bodies. Read labels and familiarize yourself with ingredients; the fewer chemicals you come in contact with, the better.

Labels: ,