Tag Archive for: inflammation

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Low ferritin value can indicate inflammation in the body.

Ferritin: More Than Iron—A Diagnostic Power Tool

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Ferritin often hides in plain sight on lab reports. But if I had to pick a favorite lab value—it would be this one. Why? Because ferritin is a multitasker. It’s one of the few lab values that offers insights into both iron metabolism and inflammation—making it a subtle but powerful indicator of what’s going on beneath the surface.

Ferritin 101: More Than Just an Iron Marker

Ferritin is often billed as a marker of iron stores. True! But that’s like saying your dog is just a pet—it’s also a security guard, emotional support system, and leftover vacuum.

Ferritin also acts as an acute phase reactant, meaning it can spike in response to inflammation. That dual personality makes it incredibly useful—and sometimes a little tricky—in clinical practice.

Let’s look at two very different patients whose ferritin levels pointed us in two very different diagnostic directions.

Case One: The 46-Year-Old Woman with Chronic Fatigue

She came to our clinic with all-too-familiar symptoms: relentless fatigue, poor sleep, and periods that could qualify as an endurance event—six days, heavy every month. A CBC was done elsewhere. Her hemoglobin? Normal. Verdict? “You’re fine.”

But at the Kaplan Center, we don’t settle for “fine.”

We dug deeper. Her ferritin was a level nine. Single digits. Yikes. We aim for ferritin levels above 50 ng/mL for optimal energy, cognitive function, and restorative sleep.

What’s tricky is that her hemoglobin was still normal—because the body was borrowing from its iron reserves to keep the ‘checking account’ looking normal. But her ‘savings account’—her ferritin—was very low. Like someone covering bills with a dwindling emergency fund, she was running on borrowed resilience. Eventually, those reserves dry up—and that’s when symptoms like fatigue, disrupted sleep, and poor stress tolerance start showing up loud and clear.

Her WatchPAT sleep study also showed no sleep apnea, but she had frequent awakenings, poor sleep efficiency, and trouble maintaining deep sleep. While ferritin doesn’t control sleep stages directly, low iron stores are known to impair energy production, dopamine synthesis, and thermoregulation—all of which can contribute to non-restorative sleep.

Iron isn’t just about oxygen transport. It’s about mitochondrial health, dopamine production, and helping your brain power down at night. So if your labs look “normal” but you feel anything but normal, find someone who will look beyond the surface.

Case Two: The 25-Year-Old Man with Long COVID

He was a healthy athlete until a tick-borne illness and COVID knocked him flat. Now? Crushing fatigue, post-exertional malaise, and brain fog. He had headaches and saw strange visual patterns. His ferritin level came back at 144 ng/mL.

At first, you might think, “Great iron stores!” But not so fast.

In his case, the elevated ferritin was less about iron, more about inflammation. Ferritin is the body’s way of waving a red flag: neuroinflammation ahead. Using the Kaplan Method™, alongside specialized testing, we started him on a personalized comprehensive plan to regain his health so he could return to playing pickleball.

High ferritin can reflect inflammatory stress—something we often see in Long COVID, autoimmune conditions, and chronic infections. It’s part of the body’s acute phase response, kind of like sending in the fire trucks whether it’s a campfire or a five-alarm blaze.

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A Word on Teens, Ferritin & Cognitive Performance

Here’s another reason I love ferritin: it has the power to improve a teen’s cognitive function, academic outcomes, and even self-esteem—especially in adolescent girls (who are recently started menstruating). Most pediatricians only check hemoglobin level, not ferritin- so this is missed.

In the U.S., up to 40% of teenage girls have ferritin levels under 25 ng/mL, often missed because standard labs only check hemoglobin. But research shows that even non-anemic girls with low ferritin (≤12 ng/mL) perform significantly worse on tasks involving verbal learning, memory, and attention.

A randomized controlled trial conducted in Washington, D.C., studied non-anemic adolescent girls with ferritin levels ≤12 ng/mL. Over eight weeks, the group receiving iron supplementation experienced significant improvements in verbal learning and memory scores, while the placebo group showed no meaningful change. Ferritin levels in the treatment group rose from an average of 12 to 27 ng/mL, confirming that iron repletion—not just hemoglobin normalization—was key to improved cognitive performance.

At the Kaplan Center, our integrative model looks at not just what’s “in range,” but what’s optimal for function. We recognize that iron plays a key role in neurotransmitter synthesis, oxygen delivery, and mitochondrial function—all crucial for learning and brain development.

That means when we check ferritin in a tired, struggling teen, and supplement appropriately, we’re not just treating fatigue—we’re helping their brain catch up, their confidence grow, and their future open up.

The Kaplan Method™: Why We Ask “What’s Beneath This?”

At the Kaplan Center, we use ferritin as one of many clues in a larger systems-based, root-cause approach. The Kaplan Method™ integrates immunology, neurology, functional medicine, and decades of clinical insight to understand why symptoms are happening—and how to reverse them.

We do advanced testing. We don’t just treat numbers. We look at patterns. We ask: Is ferritin low due to chronic menstrual loss, poor gut absorption, or chronic infection? Is it high because of oxidative stress and cytokine reactivity? Ferritin doesn’t just give us a number—it gives us a direction.

At the Kaplan Center, we don’t stop at “normal.” We pause, rethink, and investigate.

So there it is. Ferritin is my favorite lab value—because it gives us something priceless: insight. And sometimes, it’s the overlooked clue behind a foggy brain, a sleepless night, or that frustrating feeling when a sharp student just can’t seem to focus, no matter how many flashcards they flip. Do kids even make flashcards anymore? Either way—low ferritin might be why none of it’s sticking.

Nidhi Reva, is a Physician Assistant and Director of the Kaplan Center’s Long COVID Clinic and recipient of the Arlington, VA 2021 COVID-19 Hero award.

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

Gary Kaplan on Good Morning Washington

Good Morning Washington Visits the Kaplan Center! Part 2

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Good Morning Washington‘s Roxanne Strouk, returned to the Kaplan Center to speak to Dr. Gary on the challenges many patients face when they are affected with chronic conditions.

Significant overlaps in symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and pain—across multiple illnesses, like ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, and autoimmune diseases, can lead to misdiagnosis or a delayed diagnosis leaving patients without clear answers or effective treatment plans. In addition, a shortage of healthcare providers who specialize in complex, chronic illnesses, can result in fragmented care and limited access to knowledgeable clinicians. As a result, many patients endure prolonged suffering and diminished quality of life without a clear path to recovery.

Dr. Kaplan explains how the Kaplan Center’s integrative and functional approach 1—allows for a more comprehensive understanding of each patient’s health, and 2—focuses on identifying and treating the root cause of illness, both of which often leads to more sustainable recovery.

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

Nidhi Reva on Good Morning Washington

Good Morning Washington Visits The Kaplan Center! Part 1

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Nidhi Reva P.A., our Long-COVID Program Director, was joined by Good Morning Washington’s Roxanne Strouk to talk about how integrative medicine provides a comprehensive and patient-centered approach to treating chronic conditions like Long-COVID, Lyme disease, sleep apnea, and chronic fatigue, that aren’t easily treated by conventional medicine alone.

Nidhi explains how integrative medicine incorporates the best elements of conventional and alternative medicine to address physical symptoms and the root cause(s) of pain and illness, including problems of the mind and spirit that may be contributing to the disease process.

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

 

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5 Steps For Better Health If You Have a Chronic Illness or Pain

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Today, medical care is a highly specialized and compartmentalized business, and many physicians are pressured by significant time constraints. When your health problems are complex, it can be difficult and frustrating to find answers. Be your own advocate, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and seize control of your health.

5 Important Steps For Better Health When You Have a Chronic Illness or Pain

  1. Find An Expert. Chronic pain can undermine every aspect of your life – your work, relationships, recreational activities, self-esteem, and hope for the future. You want – and need – a pain specialist who is going to investigate the causes of your particular pain problem, strive to understand exactly how it has affected your life, and work with you to create and implement a personalized and comprehensive treatment strategy that fits the context of your life. You don’t have to just live with it. Chronic pain or illness should not define who you are and what you do.
  2. Understand Your Diagnosis. A diagnosis is not just a label; expect your doctor to provide you with resources to help you better understand your own condition; and expect him or her to lay out clear recommendations for your short and long-term treatment, including steps that you can take to assist with your own healing process.
  3. Understand the Value of Non-invasive Manual Therapies to Your Recovery. Seek out a physician who is knowledgeable about non-invasive manual therapies that will support your recovery. Ideally, you want a doctor who can recommend highly skilled manual practitioners who will communicate with your doctor about your progress and the need for adjustments in your ongoing medical care.
  4. Be Careful about Using Pain Medication. While medications may help with pain, some also have the potential to cause other problems with your health and quality of life. Be confident that the medication your doctor has prescribed for you is truly the most effective and least invasive way of treating your chronic pain problem.
  5. Understand All the Factors that May Be Contributing to Your Condition. Many times there are underlying, undiagnosed factors that may be contributing to your pain. Nutrition, emotional issues, hormone imbalances, biotoxicity or neurotoxicity, and sleep disorders can all cause inflammatory reactions in the body which can lead to a cascade of painful symptoms.

Chronic pain is a multi-faceted problem that requires a multi-disciplinary approach to diagnosing and treating your pain.

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

Updated September 16, 2024

Toxicity disorders can affect mood and overall health.

Living with Chronic Pain and Illness? You May Be Suffering from a Toxicity Disorder

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Anyone can be at risk of being exposed to and affected by harmful toxins. Exposure can occur in your own home, at work, or while traveling. The good news is that for most people the liver is able to break down these toxins so they can pass through the intestines and be excreted from the body. However, approximately 20 percent of the general population lacks the enzymes needed to break down toxins for elimination, leaving this group particularly vulnerable. Instead of being excreted, harmful toxins can be reabsorbed through the lining of the intestines back into the body. The body then sequesters them wherever it can, damaging the muscle tissue, nerves, and nervous tissues in those “holding areas.”

You can be exposed to toxins in the following ways:

  • By ingesting contaminated food, beverages, and water.
  • By inhaling aerosolized particles in the air.
  • Through direct contact with mucus from eyes, nose, mouth, etc…
  • Through direct contact with the skin

If you think you have been exposed to toxins that are affecting your health, call and speak with a nurse today: 703-532-4892, ext. 2.

CALL NOW

Not all toxins are the same

Biotoxins

Biotoxins are toxic substances from biological sources, like plants, bacteria, molds, and animals that alter the body’s normal biological systems that manage digestion, respiration, circulation, joint flexibility, etc. When this happens the resulting condition is called biotoxicity.

Neurotoxins

Neurotoxins affect the nervous system and disrupt the normal functioning of neurons, key cells that transmit and process signals in the brain and other parts of the nervous system. This is called neurotoxicity.

Neurotoxins can be of natural or manmade origin. For example, neurotoxins can be found in molds, heavy metals (lead, mercury), and insect bites, as well as in pesticides, food preservatives (aspartame), and substances used in chemotherapy, radiation treatments, and drug therapy, among other things.

Mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are a type of biotoxin and the byproducts of fungi (molds) that can have toxic effects on humans and animals. Aspergillus, Penicillium, Stachybotrys, and Fusarium are some of the more common fungi that produce the following toxic offspring: Aflatoxins, Gliotoxins, Ochratoxins, and Trichothecenes.

Mycotoxins are primarily found in:

  1. Structures: In water-damaged homes and buildings
  2. Food: Common contaminants of human food products, like wine, coffee beans, nuts, cereal grains (wheat, corn, barley, etc…) and animal feed. They can also enter the food chain through food products, such as milk, meat, and eggs, obtained from animals that are fed mycotoxin-contaminated feed.

Questions? Give Us a Call!

703-532-4892 x2

Health effects of mold toxicity

Mycotoxins and leaky gut

The job of the small intestine is to allow nutrients to pass through its lining so they can be absorbed into the bloodstream and circulated to all the major organs. But it also works as a filter to prevent foreign or toxic substances from entering the bloodstream. When there is damage to the lining and foreign substances are able to penetrate this is called leaky gut or intestinal permeability. Since we now know that 70-80% of our immune system is located in our gut it is not surprising that the effects of leaky gut can be serious.

Researchers investigated the presence of mycotoxins in the gastrointestinal tract and concluded that Candida Albicans, one of the pathogenic fungi residing in the intestines, harmless in small amounts, starts producing gliotoxins if its number outgrows the other beneficial bacterial species in the gut, causing a myriad of neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms. Exposure to Candida Albicans and other mycotoxins results in:

  • Disrupting intestinal integrity causing dysbiosis (imbalance in gut bacteria) or leaky gut
  • Disrupting the microbiome
  • Suppressing the local immune response in the intestines

Neurocognitive symptoms

In the brain, the glial cells (microglia and astrocytes) are part of an interactive network of cells that work to protect the nerves and brain from damage and ensure their proper development. Research shows that exposure to mycotoxins can suppress and impair their proper functioning, putting an individual’s cognitive development and/or function at risk.

A research study that measured IQ scores in 277 six-year-old children, who were exposed to indoor mold for more than 2 years, showed IQ deficits of approximately 10 points using a scale of intelligence, exemplifying the dangers of exposure on cognitive development in early childhood.

Other classic neurologic disorders that result from mycotoxin exposure include pain syndromes and depression, movement disorders, delirium, dementia, and balance and coordination disorders.

Mold toxicity is one of the major toxicity conditions we see at the Kaplan Center. Over the years we have gained a better understanding of the pathophysiology, or disease process, of environmental toxicity and have developed a successful treatment protocol. We have been delighted to see an extraordinary resolution of symptoms in about 50 percent of patients, and notable improvement in another 40 percent. Obviously, the protocol is not a cure-all, but it has helped a number of patients feel significantly better.

Toxcity disorders can cause headaches and many other pain symptoms.What Are Common Symptoms of Toxicity Disorders?

The following is a list of symptoms that may indicate the presence of biotoxins or neurotoxins in your body:

– Joint Pain – Muscle Pain – Chronic Headaches
– Fatigue – Digestive Problems – Decreased Ability to Focus
– Sleep Problems – Decreased Libido – Weight gain / Obesity
– Depression – Anxiety – Mood Swings
– Poor Memory – Irritability – Wheezing

Are the Symptoms of Biotoxicity & Neurotoxicity Similar to Those of Other Disease Conditions?

Yes. Because the symptoms of biotoxicity and neurotoxicity are similar to those of other diseases, toxicity disorders are often overlooked as the underlying cause of illness.

Can I Be Tested for Biotoxicity or Neurotoxicity?

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, and, especially if your condition has not responded to conventional medical treatment, the Kaplan Center recommends the following steps:

  1. (And most important!) Take the time to talk with your doctor about your history of exposure to environmental toxins.
  2. Take an On-line Visual Contrast Sensitivity Test (VCS). This non-invasive test is a sensitive indicator of your exposure to a variety of toxins. There are a number of online resources that offer this test for a small fee.
  3. Undergo genetic testing (HLA-testing) to determine if your body has the enzymes necessary to breakdown biotoxins.
  1. Undergo advanced testing. There are a variety of tests that can detect the presence of toxins (including mycotoxins, heavy metals, infectious sources, food additives, pesticides, and other toxic chemicals). Talk to your physician about which test(s) may be most appropriate for you, based on your history of exposure
  2. Test for leaky gut. When the protective filtering system within the intestines is compromised, it is known as Intestinal Permeability – or leaky gut. Toxins and other substances that would normally have been kept within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and eliminated are now able to get into the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body.

Treating Biotoxicity and Neurotoxicity

There are a variety of treatments available to patients suffering from biotoxicity or neurotoxicity disorders. If the underlying cause of your pain or illness is biotoxicity or neurotoxicity, your treatment plan must include a detoxification regime, or your overall recovery is likely to be incomplete and slower than it needs to be. Your treatment plan should be individually tailored after consideration of your overall medical history, your current symptoms, your genetic makeup, your history of exposure to toxins, and your lifestyle. In essence, a detoxification regime is designed to “draw out” toxins from whichever tissue they have been stored and “bind” the toxins at the molecular level so they can finally be eliminated from the body; this is typically done with binders and anti-fungal medications.  We also prescribe dietary changes, such as Detox Food Plans, and nutritional supplements including Glutathione, Activated Charcoal, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Chlorella, Vitamin D, Magnesium, and Probiotics. Before purchasing any over-the-counter nutritional supplements or herbal remedies, it is important to note that:

  1. The quality and efficacy of nutritional supplements can vary widely depending upon the manufacturer and the dosage consumed.
  2. Supplements can interact with other prescription medications, enhancing or undermining the effectiveness of your other medications or even creating new and unexpected problems.

The Kaplan Center medical team also offers integrative therapies, such as nutritional consultation, acupuncture, osteopathic manipulation, Chinese and American herbal remedies, and recommendations for saunas and exercises. These alternative modalities can provide patients with significant relief from their symptoms and from any side effects of the detoxification process.

What Can I Do Now to Protect Myself and My Loved Ones from Biotoxicity and Neurotoxicity?

The MOST important thing you can do to improve your health and wellbeing is to limit your environmental exposure to toxins by:

  1. Making sure there is no hidden mold in your home (watch this video featuring David Young MPH, an Indoor Health Specialist, for tips on how to keep a healthy environment);
  2. Avoiding high processed foods that contribute to leaky gut – a disruption in the lining of the small intestine that, when present, allows toxins and other unwanted substances to circulate throughout the body;
  3. Eating fresh, organic, and non-GMO whenever possible;
  4. Using green/clean products that do not contain pesticides and other toxic ingredients.

Where Can I Get Additional Information?

For more information about Biotoxicity and Neurotoxicity, we recommend the following sources:

Websites:

Books:

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

References

Hope, J. (2013). A review of the mechanism of injury and treatment approaches for illness resulting from exposure to water-damaged buildings, mold, and mycotoxins. The Scientific World Journal, 2013.

Sobral, M. M. C., Faria, M. A., Cunha, S. C., & Ferreira, I. M. (2018). Toxicological interactions between mycotoxins from ubiquitous fungi: Impact on hepatic and intestinal human epithelial cells. Chemosphere, 202, 538-548.

Empting, L. D. (2009). Neurologic and neuropsychiatric syndrome features of mold and mycotoxin exposure. Toxicology and Industrial Health, 25(9-10), 577-581.

Jones, D.C., Miller, G.W. (2008). The effects of environmental neurotoxicants on the dopaminergic system: A possible role in drug addiction. Biochemical Pharmacology, Volume 76, Issue 5.

Kwon-Chung, K. J., & Sugui, J. A. (2009). What do we know about the role of gliotoxin in the pathobiology of Aspergillus fumigatus? Medical Mycology, 47(Supplement_1), S97-S103

Niide, O., Suzuki, Y., Yoshimaru, T., Inoue, T., Takayama, T., & Ra, C. (2006). Fungal metabolite gliotoxin blocks mast cell activation by a calcium-and superoxide-dependent mechanism: implications for immunosuppressive activities. Clinical Immunology, 118(1), 108-116.

Liew, W. P. P., & Mohd-Redzwan, S. (2018). Mycotoxin: its impact on gut health and microbiota. Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, 8, 60.

Wiertsema SP, van Bergenhenegouwen J, Garssen J, Knippels LMJ. The Interplay between the Gut Microbiome and the Immune System in the Context of Infectious Diseases throughout Life and the Role of Nutrition in Optimizing Treatment Strategies. Nutrients. 2021 Mar 9;13(3):886. doi: 10.3390/nu13030886. PMID: 33803407; PMCID: PMC8001875.

Reemst K, Noctor SC, Lucassen PJ, Hol EM. The Indispensable Roles of Microglia and Astrocytes during Brain Development. Front Hum Neurosci. 2016;10:566. Published 2016 Nov 8. doi:10.3389/fnhum.2016.00566

 

This article was originally published in December, 2018 and reviewed in March, 2024.

Nutrition and Long COVID

Nutrition and Long COVID

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Long-COVID or post-COVID syndrome is a wide range of new or persisting symptoms that COVID-19 sufferers continue to experience even after recovering from a COVID-19 infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), long-COVID symptoms can last for weeks or even months.

It is estimated that somewhere between 10-30% of patients develop long-COVID syndrome. Unfortunately, no formal treatment for long-COVID exists. This has made managing long-COVID a difficult and sometimes lonely experience for many sufferers. With few guidelines on the treatment of long-COVID, it is important to consider some of the effects that our lifestyle choices may have on long-COVID symptoms. One such area is the dietary choices that we make.

Long-COVID with nutrition

There is some evidence to suggest that adoption of a plant-based diet leads to reduced intake of inflammatory mediators and higher consumption of phytonutrients that reduce the inflammation in the body and help facilitate health and healing. Addressing some aspects of our diet can help to tackle long-COVID associated inflammation.

Nutrients that support the immune system

Some recent studies have highlighted the benefits of a healthy plant-based diet in fighting underlying conditions linked to poor COVID-19 outcomes. A plant-based diet consists of the following components

  • Minimally processed foods
  • Variety of colorful vegetables and fruits
  • Whole grains, and legumes
  • Exclusion of all animal products (such as red meat, poultry, fish, and dairy)
  • Nuts, seeds
  • High fiber foods

Plant-based diets are abundant in fiber, antioxidants, and phytochemicals. They are also free of cholesterol and low in saturated fat and pro-inflammatory animal-derived molecules.

How nutrients can help

The specific benefits of some food items in a plant-based diet were pointed out in the study above. They include:

  • Fiber – fiber may be associated with deeper, more restorative sleep and lowers bad cholesterol.
  • Antioxidants and polyphenols – Naturally-occurring dietary polyphenols exhibit antidepressant activity. This is important for some COVID patients.
  • Polyunsaturated fats – Eating more polyunsaturated fats and less saturated fats could potentially improve long-COVID-related sleep disorders

Evidence on nutrition and long-COVID

A recent population study that was carried out in 2021 highlights some potential benefits of following a plant-based diet. The study was conducted in six countries and found that adopting a plant-based dietary pattern was associated with 73% lower odds of moderate-to-severe COVID-19-like illness. In contrast, those individuals following “low carbohydrate, high protein diets” had substantially greater odds of moderate-to-severe COVID-19.

Although formal evidence of an association between diet and COVID-19 is still new, the evidence to date points to a potentially significant link between COVID-19 and our dietary patterns.

Management of long-COVID

At Kaplan Center, our goal is to treat long-COVID by taking a holistic, whole-body approach. That includes the use of new and emerging research and treatment that might produce better outcomes for patients. Dietary habits may be part of that approach and we may suggest this alongside other treatment options when dealing with long-COVID.

This article was published in March, 2022 and updated in March 2024.

 

Long-COVID Recovery Services

If you are experiencing symptoms beyond six weeks of being diagnosed with COVID-19, learn more about our Long-COVID Recovery Services to regain your strength, energy, and vitality. Click here for more information.

Special Report: Understanding Long-COVID Syndrome

In this Special Report, we cover:

  • What is Long-COVID Syndrome?
  • Common symptoms of Long-COVID Syndrome
  • Underlying Infection that Kickstarts a Multisystem Chronic Illness
  • Teaming up with Cutting Edge Researchers
  • Digging Even Deeper to Find Total Recovery
  • The Kaplan Center Approach

 

References

Long Covid Household Pulse Survey

Kim H, Rebholz CM, Hegde S, et al. Plant-based diets, pescatarian diets and COVID-19 severity: a population-based case–control study in six countries. BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health 2021;bmjnph-2021-000272. doi: 10.1136/bmjnph-2021-000272

The_Root_Cause_Medicine_Podcast

Listen Now: How Chronic Inflammation is Silently Destroying Your Brain and Body with Dr. Gary Kaplan

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Dr. Gary Kaplan was a recent guest on Rupa Health’s Root Cause Medicine Podcast hosted by Dr. Carrie Jones and Dr. Kate Henry.

Topics of discussion include

  1. Autoimmune diseases and chronic illnesses
  2. The impact of chronic inflammation on the brain and body
  3. The role of sleep in brain health
  4. PANS, PANDAS, and POTS
  5. How to find a doctor that listens to your symptoms

 

Episode: How Chronic Inflammation is Silently Destroying Your Brain and Body with Dr. Gary Kaplan

Labs mentioned

  • The Cunningham Panel
  • Lyme disease tests

Timestamps

00:00 – Intro
02:28 – Why are you still sick?
04:51 – Autoimmunity, infections, and chronic diseases
14:24 – Unveiling the inflammation mystery
24:15 – The Foundation for Total Recovery annual conference
25:43 – How brain inflammation shapes who we are
29:07 – Meditation, exercise, sleep, and brain health
34:08 – PANS, PANDAS, and POTS
36:49 – The Cunningham Panel
39:53 – Testing for tick-borne illnesses
44:56 – Holistic healing and the insurance dilemma
53:14 – Dr. Gary Kaplan’s key tip for well-being

Dr. Kaplan discusses what we now know about Long-Covid

LISTEN NOW: Long COVID: What we know now, with Gary Kaplan, DO

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What should patients know about recovering from Long-COVID? Dr. Kaplan discusses where we are now with research and what you need to know.



In this episode, Dr. Kaplan returns to the Less Stressed Life Podcast to talk to Christa Biegler, RD, about what the “treatment pie” is for recovering from Long COVID, why you may be experiencing long term symptoms, how you can be evaluated for treatment, request treatment or get more information.

Episode #328 – Long Covid: What we know now, with Gary Kaplan, D.O.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • What are the symptoms of long COVID?
  • COVID can affect every system in the body
  • Why are we seeing an increase in cancer?
  • What helps with the loss of taste and smell?
  • Why do you lose taste and smell when you have COVID?
  • What is the treatment for a high fever?
  • Why do people struggle with detoxing and alcohol tolerance after having COVID?
  • What can you do to support the kidneys post COVID?
  • Solutions for Long COVID
  • How does metformin help Long COVID?
  • How do you diagnose Long COVID?
  • Benefits of methylene blue
  • What are cytokines?

If you are experiencing symptoms beyond six weeks of being diagnosed with COVID-19, our Long-COVID Recovery Services may help you regain your strength and vitality.

Most people recover from COVID-19 completely, but for reasons still unknown a percentage of patients, sometimes referred to as “long-haulers,” continue to suffer long-term effects of the virus. If you or a loved one are dealing with lingering symptoms of COVID-19, our Long-COVID Recovery Services can offer you a path to recovery.

With over 35 years of experience helping patients recover from chronic conditions. We understand the complexities of chronic conditions better than most other providers and we are well-prepared to offer long-COVID-19 recovery services.

Learn more about our services.
 

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

stablize_blood_sugar_with_a_healthy_diet

7 Benefits of Stable Blood Sugar

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Diabetes is a chronic medical condition characterized by high blood sugar levels as a result of your body’s inability to properly regulate insulin, the hormone responsible for controlling glucose levels. Diabetes is best managed with a proper diet, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, the use of medication such as insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents.

If you have Type 1 diabetes, your body does not produce insulin on its own. If you have Type 2 diabetes, your body doesn’t produce enough insulin or the cells become resistant to insulin’s effects. In both cases, this dysregulation of insulin levels can lead to periods of high and sometimes low blood sugar levels. This can negatively impact the body so maintaining stable blood sugar levels is essential for your overall health and well-being.

Kaplan Center’s approach to managing diabetes addresses all of the root causes that are driving your condition. In contrast to conventional medicine, our functional medicine approach emphasizes prevention through lifestyle and dietary modifications and promotes overall health and wellness. Please give us a call today, we can help.

Here are seven benefits of having a stable blood sugar

1 – Enhanced energy levels

When your blood sugar level is stable, your body can efficiently convert glucose into energy. This means you will be provided with a steady and constant energy supply throughout the day and reduce the amount of fatigue or sluggishness that you experience.

2 – Better weight management

It is important that you maintain a stable and healthy body weight with diabetes and having a stable blood sugar level can help. When your blood sugar remains steady, you’re less likely to experience intense hunger or cravings that can lead to overeating or making unhealthy food choices.

3 – Increased focus and concentration

Blood sugar imbalances can affect cognitive function, leading to difficulties in concentration and focus. In fact, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and cognitive impairment are now being dubbed by researchers as Type 3 Diabetes due to the strong link between insulin resistance and cognitive decline/impairment. Interestingly, this could also help explain why dementia patients always crave sweet things.

Because the brain is the most energy-demanding organ and uses one-half of all sugar (energy) in the body, stable blood sugar will not only help promote better brain function and improve mental clarity but will also help lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

For more information on insulin resistance, its relationship with cognitive function, and strategies on how to stabilize your blood sugar, you can read the following articles by Dr. Lisa Lilienfield, “Pre-diabetes: Are You at Risk?” and “Addressing the Fear of Cognitive Decline & How to Be Proactive.”

4 – A reduction in the number of diabetes-related complications

Consistently high blood sugar levels are associated with long-term damage to various organs including the eyes, kidneys, heart, and nerves. By maintaining a stable blood sugar, your risk of these complications is reduced. This is important because the complications can be serious; complications include macular degeneration of the eyes, reduced kidney function, or issues affecting your nerves.

5 – Improved mood and mental well-being

Fluctuating blood sugar levels can lead to mood swings, irritability, and even anxiety. One study found that greater glycemic variability may be associated with a lower quality of life and negative moods. So, by maintaining stable blood sugar, you promote better emotional balance and overall mental well-being.

6 – Improved cardiovascular health

High blood sugar levels can damage your blood vessels and increase your risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. A stable blood sugar can help you maintain a healthier cardiovascular system which reduces your risk of many life-threatening cardiovascular issues and heart disease.

7 – Enhanced overall health

Stable blood sugar levels can positively impact various aspects of your health such as supporting your immune function. This boosts your body’s ability to fight off infections and illnesses more effectively. Additionally, stable blood sugar is known to contribute to better sleep quality, hormonal balance, and overall longevity.

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

References

https://hms.harvard.edu/news-events/publications-archive/brain/sugar-brain

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3317401/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7246646/

treating peripheral neuropathy

Treating Peripheral Neuropathy

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The peripheral nervous system includes the nerves that lead from the brain and spinal cord throughout the body. There are several different types of peripheral nerves including motor nerves, which carry messages that make our muscles work; sensory nerves, which carry sensations from our skin, muscles, and organs including touch, temperature, vibration, and pain; and nerves that control autonomic function (involuntary) such as heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, and digestion. Peripheral neuropathy is a term used to describe damage to these peripheral nerves.

Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy depend on what types of peripheral nerves have been damaged but typically can include numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness, as well as digestive difficulties and bladder dysfunction. The peripheral nerves most commonly damaged are those that deal with sensation, therefore the most common symptom of people suffering from peripheral neuropathy is pain, which can unfortunately be quite severe.

Damage to the peripheral nerves can be caused by many conditions, including:

  • Infections such as shingles, Lyme disease, and HIV. Research is also suggesting that COVID-19 increases the risk of developing neuropathy both during and after the infection.
  • Autoimmune diseases such as Celiac disease, pernicious anemia
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Side effects from medications (chemotherapy, for example)
  • Metabolic disorders such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, and nutritional /vitamin deficiencies
  • Trauma
  • Hereditary disorders such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease.

Treating Peripheral Neuropathy

Treatment is first and foremost aimed at addressing the underlying cause and finding the appropriate solution to resolve and/or manage it. Unfortunately, in approximately 30% of the cases, an underlying cause cannot be identified, and this is called idiopathic peripheral neuropathy.

The next goal of treatment is to alleviate pain and preserve function. In our Center, we typically start with acupuncture and herbal supplements that stimulate the body’s natural healing process. Both of these therapies have been very effective for a large number of our patients over the years. Physical therapy can also be helpful. Topical medications such as lidocaine patches or creams that we have compounded specially for our patients are our next line of therapy.

Next, we consider the use of antidepressant medications such as amitriptyline or nortriptyline, or anticonvulsant medications such as gabapentin or Lyrica, as both types of medications can be helpful in moderating pain by altering neurotransmission in the peripheral nervous system. All of these medications have potential side effects, and unfortunately, none of the therapies are 100% effective.

For those who are diabetic, management of blood sugar is crucial to control the progression of the neuropathy. There are several supplements such as magnesium and chromium picolinate that might be helpful as people who have diabetes are typically low in both. Also, there is a significantly higher risk of celiac disease and thyroid disease in people who have Type-1 diabetes. If you have not already been evaluated for these diseases, you need to be tested. A simple blood test can be done for both conditions.

Peripheral neuropathy can also put you at higher risk of injury from a fall and other types of accidents. Ask a family member or friend to help you organize your home in a way that minimizes clutter and keeps walking areas open.

Peripheral neuropathy can improve with time if the underlying condition is addressed, but unfortunately in some cases, the damage may become permanent. If you’re suffering from nerve pain don’t delay talking to your provider about your symptoms. A healthy lifestyle combined with a holistic treatment approach can improve the physical and emotional effects of peripheral neuropathy and help you re-engage in life.

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

This article was originally published in May 2015. It was reviewed and updated in September 2023.