Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. For most people, the subject of Alzheimer’s brings fear and trepidation. Why? Because the thought of deteriorating brain function and memory loss is frightening. Unfortunately, current medical treatments are inadequate, dealing only with its end result.
Alzheimer’s is characterized by the destruction of synapses in the neurons, the nerve cells in the brain, by amyloid plaques. In addition, “tangles” form in the cells leading to loss of brain function. This leads to progressive loss of memory and behavioral problems like aggression, hallucinations, and delusions, as well as deterioration of activities of daily living. This is heartbreaking for patients and their families. And, despite years of ongoing research, there are still many unanswered questions about what causes Alzheimer’s disease.
Let’s explore some of the known risks associated with dementia and learn how to lower those risks.
Type 3 Diabetes
You may not have heard the term “type 3 diabetes” as another name for Alzheimer’s Dementia. Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, also called insulin resistance, are both strongly linked to the development of Alzheimer’s dementia. This could actually be good news because it means this is a preventable risk factor.
Why has the term Type 3 diabetes been coined? Let’s start by discussing sugar, which in large quantities is a poison. The body is not designed to handle more than 15-20 grams per day, yet a soda has at least 40 grams and the average American consumes 82 grams per day.
Excess sugar causes an outpouring of insulin from the pancreas and over time causes the cells in the body – including the brain – to become resistant to insulin. This leads to chronically elevated blood sugar which causes Advanced Glycation End products or AGEs to be produced. These AGEs then attack the eyes, kidneys, peripheral nerves, and the brain!
Environmental factors
Heavy metals, such as lead in pollution and mercury in dental amalgams, and large fish, like tuna, swordfish, and shark increase the risk of dementia. In the 1800s the term “mad as a hatter” came about because hat makers were using a form of mercury to make fur hats and it destroyed brain cells.
There are several genes that predispose to Alzheimer’s such as the ApoE4. However, just because we have a gene does not mean it will be expressed. Every time we eat, exercise, sleep, meditate, communicate, create something, play, learn, and love, we are turning genes on and off.
The good news is the brain can actually grow and change in a positive way, even as we get older.
Be proactive in reducing your risk of dementia with these strategies:
Lifestyle strategies can promote neurogenesis (new brain cells) and neuroplasticity (changes in the brain and its pathways). These strategies involve a substance called BDNF or brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which promotes brain cell growth and connectivity as demonstrated on MRI scans. In fact, the hippocampus, which is involved in emotional memory, gets larger the more BDNF is available. A large part of the lifestyle strategy involves modifying the diet to lower unhealthful carbs and increase healthful fats thus lowering the risk of diabetes.
Reduce (non-vegetable) carbohydrate consumption. Sugars/artificial sweeteners and grains can cause inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract, or “leaky gut”. An inflamed gut causes an inflamed brain and reduces the size of the hippocampus. Functional testing looking at stool, urine, and breath can determine if your gut is leaky. Replace nutrients lost from a leaky gut or poor diets like B12, folate, B6, magnesium, and iron.
Increase healthy fat consumption.
Increase your omega-3 fat intake and reduce the consumption of damaging omega-6 fats (like processed vegetable oils) in order to balance your omega-3 to omega-6 ratio. Omega-3 from fish sources shows a lower risk of cognitive impairment.
Improve your sleep habits.
Work on getting at least 7-8 hours of solid sleep. If sleep is poor, rule out sleep apnea. A 2020 study published in the journal Sleep confirms that people who have obstructive sleep apnea – or intermittent interruptions in breathing – in their middle ages are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s Disease. If you’re not sure if you have sleep apnea, but you find yourself exhausted during the day, take this short quiz as the first step towards diagnosis.
Exercise!
Physical activity produces biochemical changes, increasing BDNF, that strengthen and renew not only your body but also your brain – particularly the hippocampus, the area associated with memory and learning. This is especially important for carriers of the ApoE4 gene. A good exercise regimen includes aerobic and resistance training at least 3-4 times per week for 30-45 minutes.
Go Keto.
The ketogenic diet. is linked to an increase in BNDF, which causes the hippocampus to get bigger (better memory). This involves cutting down on carbohydrates which reduces insulin resistance (diabetes) and increasing good fats like avocado, olive oil, MCT (medium-chain triglycerides found in coconut oil), and intermittent fasting 12-14 hours between dinner and breakfast so that the body breaks down fats and produces ketones. Note: The Ketogenic diet is not for everyone, ask your physician before starting any specialized diet.
Check your hormone levels. Balance hormones, such as thyroid, cortisol, sex hormones, and Vitamin D (which is actually a hormone).
Find out whether you are insulin resistant.
Get a HgA1C test and a fasting insulin test. Eliminating the risk of Type 2 diabetes (insulin resistance) can lower the risk of Alzheimer’s dementia (Type-3 Diabetes).
Remember to take time to slow down, be mindful (meditation and yoga) spend time with loved ones, and take time to laugh and have fun. This is medicine for our minds.
Lisa Lilienfield, MD
BUILDING A BETTER BRAIN
Read more about our comprehensive services for patients who want to maintain brain health or who have been diagnosed with mild cognitive decline.
A low sex drive can be a source of frustration for many women (and men). It is normal for our interest in sex to ebb and flow over the course of our lives because of its dependence upon our medical, physical and emotional wellbeing. Furthermore, many couples experience moments in their relationship where sex will naturally decline as other priorities take hold. But if you find your lack of desire for sex distressing or believe it’s affecting your relationship, then you should consider the common sources.
Understanding the causes of a low libido
Loss of sexual desire is one of the most common sexual health problems that women experience. A recent study found that nearly one-third of women aged 18 to 59 suffer from a lost interest in sex. Causes of a reduced sex drive include:
Medical conditions
Medical conditions such as hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), coronary artery disease or depression are known to lower libido in both men and women.
Medications
A number of medications including antidepressants (e.g. Prozac, Zoloft) have side effects that include a reduced sex drive.
Major life changes and partner relationships
Relationship strains, conflicts or fights may have the effect of lowering interest in sex. Additionally, major life changes like pregnancy or childbirth can also affect your desire for sex.
Menopause and perimenopause
As women transition to menopause, the amount of estrogen in the body declines. This can result in a reduced libido or vaginal dryness which itself may cause sex to be painful or uncomfortable. Other symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, sleep changes or mood problems may also contribute to a lower sex drive.
Emotional and psychological factors
In many cases, the emotional and psychological factors around sex and relationships can affect our sex drive. Factors such as stress, low self-esteem or poor body image may all impact how we feel about sex.
To get a better understanding of the issues that are specific to your own case, it might be useful to speak to a healthcare professional.
If you’re concerned about your low desire for sex or are having difficulty figuring out the root cause, make an appointment to speak to one of our specialists. Our doctors will take the time to discuss your own experiences, obtain a full history and ask questions surrounding your medical and emotional health. If necessary, we may suggest diagnostic tests to rule out possible medical conditions.
Treatment options
Whether it’s a medical problem, emotional issue or the effects of menopause at play, our staff can discuss a range of treatment options that are tailored to you. Options may include:
At The Kaplan Center we understand that sexual health is a part of overall good health. Our goal is to provide support to our patients and help them achieve the best possible outcomes for all of their health concerns.
– Are you over 35 and concerned about your ability to become pregnant?
– Are you under 35 and having difficulty conceiving?
– Do you have a condition that may be undermining your ability to become pregnant?
Dealing with infertility can be frustrating, financially draining, and in some cases, can lead to feelings of hopelessness. The problem of infertility is far from rare, however; according to an often-cited research study, fully 10-15% of couples in the US have difficulty conceiving.
Fortunately, medical breakthroughs including new medications, and high-technology treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI), have helped many couples overcome fertility problems. But unfortunately, IVF and/or IUI can be a difficult journey for couples when the expected results are not achieved.
Medical research has demonstrated that acupuncture, which has been used for thousands of years to alleviate pain and boost the body’s immune system is a safe and clinically effective treatment for boosting fertility.
How does acupuncture help to improve fertility in women?
To date, most of the research on acupuncture and infertility has examined the effect of acupuncture when administered at or near the time of the IVF embryo transfer. As noted above, however, acupuncture elicits several beneficial physiological responses in the body, so it can be an effective, low-cost, and safe treatment not only for women undergoing IVF but for anyone wishing to get pregnant.
Acupuncture increases uterine and ovarian blood flow.
Acupuncture increases oxygenated blood flow and thickens the uterine lining, increasing the chance of conceiving.
Acupuncture modulates the body’s neuroendocrine system. The neuroendocrine system is the combination of the nervous and endocrine systems.
Acupuncture stimulates the brain to release hormones that then stimulate the ovaries, adrenals, and other organs involved in reproduction.
Acupuncture decreases the body’s stress response. Stress can contribute to infertility, and acupuncture mitigates the body’s stress response.
Overall, the research is very strong
Numerous studies have shown that pregnancy success rates increase when acupuncture is provided in conjunction with IVF (a process where the woman’s eggs are removed, fertilized with the man’s sperm, and then the healthy embryos are then implanted in the woman’s uterus).
In general, a woman may be up to 65% more likely to become pregnant if she is receiving acupuncture combined with IVF treatments, as compared to receiving IVF treatments alone.
Of course, men also can have infertility issues, and although there are fewer studies examining male infertility and acupuncture, the existing research suggests that acupuncture also plays a positive role in improving male fertility.
Finally, and just as important, the research indicates that there are no adverse side effects associated with using acupuncture to treat infertility.
Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excess alcohol use, stress, poor diet, excessive athletic training, and maintaining an unhealthy weight can create obstacles to getting pregnant.
Finally, age also plays a prominent role in fertility. As the years pass, a woman’s ovaries gradually become less able to release eggs, and the eggs produced are fewer and less robust. This said it is still very possible to have a healthy baby (or babies!) at an older age. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 20% of women have their first child after age 35!
If you are under 35 and have been trying unsuccessfully to conceive for a year or more, talk with your physician to determine what fertility treatments would be most effective for you.
If you are over 35 and interested in getting pregnant, fertility experts recommend not waiting more than 6 months before seeking professional, medical assistance. Your doctor should administer fertility tests to determine the root of the problem. Identifying the cause of infertility will help determine the best course of action.
Most importantly, don’t lose hope.
At The Kaplan Center, we can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan, paying special attention to any chronic medical issues you may have, measuring your intracellular magnesium and vitamin-D levels, assessing your hormone balance, and helping you manage any situational stress you may be experiencing. We will partner with you to create a treatment plan that includes acupuncture, and we will be happy to coordinate your care with your fertility specialist or aid you in choosing a specialist.
We are here for you, and we want to help.
Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2
Addressing the Fear of Cognitive Decline & How to Be Proactive
/in Inflammation, Mental Health, Wellness/by Lisa Lilienfield, MDAlzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. For most people, the subject of Alzheimer’s brings fear and trepidation. Why? Because the thought of deteriorating brain function and memory loss is frightening. Unfortunately, current medical treatments are inadequate, dealing only with its end result.
Alzheimer’s is characterized by the destruction of synapses in the neurons, the nerve cells in the brain, by amyloid plaques. In addition, “tangles” form in the cells leading to loss of brain function. This leads to progressive loss of memory and behavioral problems like aggression, hallucinations, and delusions, as well as deterioration of activities of daily living. This is heartbreaking for patients and their families. And, despite years of ongoing research, there are still many unanswered questions about what causes Alzheimer’s disease.
Let’s explore some of the known risks associated with dementia and learn how to lower those risks.
Type 3 Diabetes
You may not have heard the term “type 3 diabetes” as another name for Alzheimer’s Dementia. Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, also called insulin resistance, are both strongly linked to the development of Alzheimer’s dementia. This could actually be good news because it means this is a preventable risk factor.
Why has the term Type 3 diabetes been coined? Let’s start by discussing sugar, which in large quantities is a poison. The body is not designed to handle more than 15-20 grams per day, yet a soda has at least 40 grams and the average American consumes 82 grams per day.
Excess sugar causes an outpouring of insulin from the pancreas and over time causes the cells in the body – including the brain – to become resistant to insulin. This leads to chronically elevated blood sugar which causes Advanced Glycation End products or AGEs to be produced. These AGEs then attack the eyes, kidneys, peripheral nerves, and the brain!
Environmental factors
Heavy metals, such as lead in pollution and mercury in dental amalgams, and large fish, like tuna, swordfish, and shark increase the risk of dementia. In the 1800s the term “mad as a hatter” came about because hat makers were using a form of mercury to make fur hats and it destroyed brain cells.
Living or working in a water-damaged building leads to the growth of toxic mold, which poisons the nervous system.
Studies also show that living near major highways is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s.
Other causes of dementia include:
Questions? Give Us a Call!
703-532-4892 x2
The good news is the brain can actually grow and change in a positive way, even as we get older.
Be proactive in reducing your risk of dementia with these strategies:
Lifestyle strategies can promote neurogenesis (new brain cells) and neuroplasticity (changes in the brain and its pathways). These strategies involve a substance called BDNF or brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which promotes brain cell growth and connectivity as demonstrated on MRI scans. In fact, the hippocampus, which is involved in emotional memory, gets larger the more BDNF is available. A large part of the lifestyle strategy involves modifying the diet to lower unhealthful carbs and increase healthful fats thus lowering the risk of diabetes.
Sugars/artificial sweeteners and grains can cause inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract, or “leaky gut”. An inflamed gut causes an inflamed brain and reduces the size of the hippocampus. Functional testing looking at stool, urine, and breath can determine if your gut is leaky. Replace nutrients lost from a leaky gut or poor diets like B12, folate, B6, magnesium, and iron.
Increase your omega-3 fat intake and reduce the consumption of damaging omega-6 fats (like processed vegetable oils) in order to balance your omega-3 to omega-6 ratio. Omega-3 from fish sources shows a lower risk of cognitive impairment.
Prebiotic fiber nurtures gut bacteria and the hippocampus. Probiotic supplementation, which enhances the healthy bacteria in the gut, decreases the inflammatory marker, C-reactive protein, increases the antioxidant glutathione, and improves mental status as measured by the Mini Mental Status Exam
Work on getting at least 7-8 hours of solid sleep. If sleep is poor, rule out sleep apnea. A 2020 study published in the journal Sleep confirms that people who have obstructive sleep apnea – or intermittent interruptions in breathing – in their middle ages are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s Disease. If you’re not sure if you have sleep apnea, but you find yourself exhausted during the day, take this short quiz as the first step towards diagnosis.
Physical activity produces biochemical changes, increasing BDNF, that strengthen and renew not only your body but also your brain – particularly the hippocampus, the area associated with memory and learning. This is especially important for carriers of the ApoE4 gene. A good exercise regimen includes aerobic and resistance training at least 3-4 times per week for 30-45 minutes.
Sirtuins, which are NAD+-dependent enzymes, have shown to benefit brain health by acting on amyloid plaques, repairing DNA, lowering inflammation, and promoting neuronal function, which in turn can prevent or delay the onset of mild cognitive decline. Click here to learn how Niagen+ IVs help boost NAD+ levels.
The ketogenic diet. is linked to an increase in BNDF, which causes the hippocampus to get bigger (better memory). This involves cutting down on carbohydrates which reduces insulin resistance (diabetes) and increasing good fats like avocado, olive oil, MCT (medium-chain triglycerides found in coconut oil), and intermittent fasting 12-14 hours between dinner and breakfast so that the body breaks down fats and produces ketones. Note: The Ketogenic diet is not for everyone, ask your physician before starting any specialized diet.
Consider getting tested for heavy metal and toxic mold exposure and work with your doctor to eliminate them.
Balance hormones, such as thyroid, cortisol, sex hormones, and Vitamin D (which is actually a hormone).
Get a HgA1C test and a fasting insulin test. Eliminating the risk of Type 2 diabetes (insulin resistance) can lower the risk of Alzheimer’s dementia (Type-3 Diabetes).
Lisa Lilienfield, MD
BUILDING A BETTER BRAIN
Read more about our comprehensive services for patients who want to maintain brain health or who have been diagnosed with mild cognitive decline.
Dealing With a Low Sex Drive and How to Solve It
/in Sexual Health, Wellness/by Kaplan CenterA low sex drive can be a source of frustration for many women (and men). It is normal for our interest in sex to ebb and flow over the course of our lives because of its dependence upon our medical, physical and emotional wellbeing. Furthermore, many couples experience moments in their relationship where sex will naturally decline as other priorities take hold. But if you find your lack of desire for sex distressing or believe it’s affecting your relationship, then you should consider the common sources.
Understanding the causes of a low libido
Loss of sexual desire is one of the most common sexual health problems that women experience. A recent study found that nearly one-third of women aged 18 to 59 suffer from a lost interest in sex. Causes of a reduced sex drive include:
Medical conditions
Medical conditions such as hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), coronary artery disease or depression are known to lower libido in both men and women.
Medications
A number of medications including antidepressants (e.g. Prozac, Zoloft) have side effects that include a reduced sex drive.
Major life changes and partner relationships
Relationship strains, conflicts or fights may have the effect of lowering interest in sex. Additionally, major life changes like pregnancy or childbirth can also affect your desire for sex.
Menopause and perimenopause
As women transition to menopause, the amount of estrogen in the body declines. This can result in a reduced libido or vaginal dryness which itself may cause sex to be painful or uncomfortable. Other symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, sleep changes or mood problems may also contribute to a lower sex drive.
Emotional and psychological factors
In many cases, the emotional and psychological factors around sex and relationships can affect our sex drive. Factors such as stress, low self-esteem or poor body image may all impact how we feel about sex.
To get a better understanding of the issues that are specific to your own case, it might be useful to speak to a healthcare professional.
When to make an appointment
If you’re concerned about your low desire for sex or are having difficulty figuring out the root cause, make an appointment to speak to one of our specialists. Our doctors will take the time to discuss your own experiences, obtain a full history and ask questions surrounding your medical and emotional health. If necessary, we may suggest diagnostic tests to rule out possible medical conditions.
Treatment options
Whether it’s a medical problem, emotional issue or the effects of menopause at play, our staff can discuss a range of treatment options that are tailored to you. Options may include:
At The Kaplan Center we understand that sexual health is a part of overall good health. Our goal is to provide support to our patients and help them achieve the best possible outcomes for all of their health concerns.
References
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/low-sex-drive-in-women/symptoms-causes/syc-20374554
https://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/features/loss-of-sexual-desire-in-women#1
Using Acupuncture to Boost Fertility
/in Hormone Health, Treatments/by Lisa Lilienfield, MD– Are you over 35 and concerned about your ability to become pregnant?
– Are you under 35 and having difficulty conceiving?
– Do you have a condition that may be undermining your ability to become pregnant?
Dealing with infertility can be frustrating, financially draining, and in some cases, can lead to feelings of hopelessness. The problem of infertility is far from rare, however; according to an often-cited research study, fully 10-15% of couples in the US have difficulty conceiving.
Fortunately, medical breakthroughs including new medications, and high-technology treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI), have helped many couples overcome fertility problems. But unfortunately, IVF and/or IUI can be a difficult journey for couples when the expected results are not achieved.
Medical research has demonstrated that acupuncture, which has been used for thousands of years to alleviate pain and boost the body’s immune system is a safe and clinically effective treatment for boosting fertility.
How does acupuncture help to improve fertility in women?
To date, most of the research on acupuncture and infertility has examined the effect of acupuncture when administered at or near the time of the IVF embryo transfer. As noted above, however, acupuncture elicits several beneficial physiological responses in the body, so it can be an effective, low-cost, and safe treatment not only for women undergoing IVF but for anyone wishing to get pregnant.
Overall, the research is very strong
Numerous studies have shown that pregnancy success rates increase when acupuncture is provided in conjunction with IVF (a process where the woman’s eggs are removed, fertilized with the man’s sperm, and then the healthy embryos are then implanted in the woman’s uterus).
In general, a woman may be up to 65% more likely to become pregnant if she is receiving acupuncture combined with IVF treatments, as compared to receiving IVF treatments alone.
Of course, men also can have infertility issues, and although there are fewer studies examining male infertility and acupuncture, the existing research suggests that acupuncture also plays a positive role in improving male fertility.
Finally, and just as important, the research indicates that there are no adverse side effects associated with using acupuncture to treat infertility.
Each couple’s infertility situation is unique
In women, medical conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) can affect ovulation and thereby undermine their ability to conceive.
Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excess alcohol use, stress, poor diet, excessive athletic training, and maintaining an unhealthy weight can create obstacles to getting pregnant.
Finally, age also plays a prominent role in fertility. As the years pass, a woman’s ovaries gradually become less able to release eggs, and the eggs produced are fewer and less robust. This said it is still very possible to have a healthy baby (or babies!) at an older age. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 20% of women have their first child after age 35!
If you are under 35 and have been trying unsuccessfully to conceive for a year or more, talk with your physician to determine what fertility treatments would be most effective for you.
If you are over 35 and interested in getting pregnant, fertility experts recommend not waiting more than 6 months before seeking professional, medical assistance. Your doctor should administer fertility tests to determine the root of the problem. Identifying the cause of infertility will help determine the best course of action.
Most importantly, don’t lose hope.
At The Kaplan Center, we can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan, paying special attention to any chronic medical issues you may have, measuring your intracellular magnesium and vitamin-D levels, assessing your hormone balance, and helping you manage any situational stress you may be experiencing. We will partner with you to create a treatment plan that includes acupuncture, and we will be happy to coordinate your care with your fertility specialist or aid you in choosing a specialist.
We are here for you, and we want to help.
Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2