In the realm of human health, where countless mysteries persist, some forces extend far beyond the microscopic world of parasites. The celestial dance of the moon, often associated with romance and tides, harbors an unexpected link to the tiny creatures that can infiltrate our bodies. In this brief exploration, we take a look at the captivating connection between lunar phases, parasitic activity, and their profound effects on human behavior. The Celestial Influence The moon, Earth's constant companion in the night sky, has captivated human imagination for millennia. Beyond its ethereal beauty, some believe that the moon's phases hold sway over our lives, affecting everything from sleep patterns to mental well-being. However, it may come as a surprise that lunar phases are also entwined with parasitic activity. Recent research has shed light on the role of lunar cycles in parasitic infections, suggesting that these celestial rhythms play a significant role in the life cycles of certain parasites. Understanding this connection offers a novel perspective on the complex interplay between nature, the cosmos, and human health. Lunar Cycles and Parasitic Activity Intriguingly, several parasitic organisms demonstrate heightened activity during specific lunar phases. One such example is the nematode worm Strongyloides stercoralis, which causes a condition known as strongyloidiasis. This parasitic worm exhibits increased larval excretion during the full moon, leading to heightened transmission potential The exact mechanism behind this phenomenon remains under investigation. Still, it highlights the intricate relationship between parasitic life cycles and external environmental factors, including lunar phases. Behavioral Impacts of Parasitic Infections Parasites' influence extends beyond physical health, with some species demonstrating the ability to manipulate host behavior—an aspect that might have a connection to lunar cycles. Take Toxoplasma gondii, the parasite associated with cat litter boxes and some quirky behavioral changes. Recent studies have explored a possible connection between lunar phases and T. gondii's effects on human behavior. While not conclusive, these findings suggest that the parasite's influence on certain personality traits may vary throughout the lunar cycle, potentially impacting impulsivity and risk-taking behavior. A Behavioral Enigma: Toxoplasmosis and the Moon Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite with a penchant for cats, has gained notoriety for its alleged ability to manipulate host behavior, specifically in rodents. Infected rodents tend to lose their aversion to cat odors, potentially increasing their chances of becoming feline prey—a gruesome example of nature's intricate machinations. In humans, T. gondii infection has been linked to subtle alterations in behavior and personality traits. Some studies suggest that infected individuals may exhibit changes in risk-taking behavior, increased novelty-seeking, and even potential links to psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia. Recent investigations have explored the possibility that these behavioral changes might be modulated by lunar cycles. While research is ongoing, the correlation between T. gondii-induced behavioral alterations and lunar phases offers a fascinating avenue for further exploration. Unraveling the Lunar-Parasite-Human Triangle The link between lunar phases, parasitic activity, and human behavior is complex, multifaceted, and still not fully understood. While some parasitic infections may exhibit lunar-related patterns of transmission, the influence of these cycles on human behavior remains a subject of ongoing research and debate. What is clear is that parasites, with their intricate life cycles and potential behavioral effects, remain an enigmatic force within the human body. Understanding the interplay between parasites, lunar cycles, and human health presents an exciting frontier in the field of parasitology. Here are some symptoms that have been reported in relation to parasitic infections during a full moon, based on anecdotal accounts and preliminary research: 1. Gastrointestinal Distress: Some individuals have reported experiencing increased gastrointestinal symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea, during a full moon. This phenomenon is often attributed to parasites in the digestive system, with the theory being that these organisms may become more active or release toxins during specific lunar phases. 2. Sleep Disturbances: Parasitic infections, particularly those affecting the digestive system, can lead to discomfort and disrupt sleep patterns. Some people have suggested that they experience heightened restlessness or sleep disturbances during a full moon when these infections are active. 3. Changes in Mood: While not universally accepted, some anecdotal accounts suggest that mood swings, irritability, or heightened emotional sensitivity may be more pronounced during a full moon when individuals are dealing with parasitic infections. This connection is sometimes linked to the behavioral effects of certain parasites, like Toxoplasma gondii. 4. Skin Irritations: Skin conditions associated with parasitic infections, such as itching, rashes, or skin lesions, might be perceived as worsening during a full moon. Some individuals have reported increased discomfort and itching during this time. 5. Fatigue: Chronic parasitic infections can lead to fatigue and malaise. It has been suggested that individuals with such infections may feel more fatigued during a full moon, although this is a subjective perception. Nature's Enigmatic Threads The moon, with its luminous presence in the night sky, continues to weave its celestial influence upon our world. Beyond its romantic allure and gravitational impact, the moon's connection to parasitic activity and potential behavioral changes in humans adds a layer of complexity to the age-old question of how celestial bodies shape our lives. https://www.cdc.gov/dpdx/strongyloidiasis/index.html In a world where we meticulously watch what we eat, exercise like our lives depend on it (they do!), and avoid suspicious street food, there's a hidden danger lurking beneath the surface – parasites. These tiny terrors have a knack for making themselves right at home inside our bodies. So, grab your microscope and a sense of humor; we're diving deep into the world of these uninvited guests and their effects on your health. 1. The Unwanted Roommates Imagine sharing your living space with unwelcome houseguests who never chip in for rent and leave dirty dishes all over your internal kitchen. Well, that's essentially what having parasites feels like. These freeloaders range from microscopic critters to intestinal giants, and they can wreak havoc on your health. 2. The Gut-Wrenching Reality Let's talk about the gut, the epicenter of your digestive universe. It's where food meets fate, but it's also where parasites love to set up camp. Intestinal parasites can turn your gut into a battleground, causing symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, and, well, let's just say it – embarrassing gas. If your stomach sounds like a theme park haunted house, you might have a parasitic problem. 3. Brain-Drain: When Parasites Get Too Ambitious Some parasites don't settle for the gut; they aim higher, like that overachieving friend you secretly envy. Meet Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that targets your brain. It's like a Hollywood script: "Parasite Takes Over the World." Although it usually leaves humans with minor symptoms, it's been linked to personality changes, making you more daring (or reckless, depending on your perspective). Cue the thrilling parasite-themed action movie! 4. The Invasion of the Bloodsuckers Speaking of Hollywood, vampires have nothing on blood-sucking parasites. These little devils can make you feel like a real-life "Twilight" character – minus the immortality and sparkling skin. Malaria, transmitted by the Anopheles mosquito, is a prime example. It can lead to fever, chills, and fatigue, turning you into a real-life vampire hunter – only without the cool gadgets. Your doctor rarely talks about it and, in most cases, may not even be aware of this hidden enemy robbing your health. 5. Zoonotic Zingers Parasites are equal-opportunity invaders. They don't discriminate between humans and animals, which brings us to zoonotic diseases. Ever heard of "Cat Scratch Fever"? It's not just a rock song; it's a real disease caused by the Bartonella bacteria. If Fluffy's playful swat turns into an itchy, swollen nightmare, blame it on these microscopic troublemakers. 6. Parasites and Weight Loss: Not the Ideal Diet Plan While some people embark on extreme diets to shed pounds, parasites offer an unconventional weight loss strategy. A tapeworm infection can lead to unintentional weight loss as the parasites consume your nutrients. But let's not glamorize it; this is not a parasite-backed fitness regime. It's a potentially dangerous condition that requires medical attention. 7. The Good, the Bad, and the Parasitic Now, before you start fearing every itch and stomach rumble, remember that not all parasites are villains. In fact, some might be your microscopic saviors. Researchers are exploring the idea of using parasitic worms to treat autoimmune diseases like Crohn's and ulcerative colitis. So, who's the parasite now? It's all a matter of perspective! 8. The Bug Busters In the battle against parasites, we're not defenseless. Our bodies and modern medicine have formidable weapons. Hygiene, safe food practices, and proper sanitation are the first lines of defense. And when parasites do invade, medications can send them packing. Conclusion: Parasites – A Weird, Wild, and Mostly Unwanted World
In the grand tapestry of health, parasites are like the quirky, unexpected characters that keep the plot intriguing. They may be uninvited guests, but they've been part of our health story for millions of years. So, next time you feel a mysterious itch or an unusual rumble in your belly, remember that you're not alone in this world. Parasites may be trying to crash your party, but with science, medicine, and a healthy dose of humor, you can show them the door. And that is how we navigate the weird, wild, and mostly unwanted world of parasites, all while keeping our health and our light-hearted sense of humor intact. Do you have trouble losing weight no matter how good you eat or how much you exercise?Are you someone who has struggled with weight gain throughout your life? Maybe at some point you lost that weight and then somehow gained it back? Have you found yourself yo-yo dieting, or perhaps in the past you've tried the latest diet or fitness trends that your friends are on, yet you find they don't work for you because the weight keeps coming back? Your inability to lose weight is not your fault...7 Tips for Backpack SafetyIncorrect wear of backpacks and bookbags can also contribute to health problems including pain in the back, neck, and shoulders, or the development of poor posture. Making sure that your children wear their backpacks properly can help prevent pain and posture problems. Follow the seven backpack safety tips below to help your children wear their backpacks safely and correctly, and avoid over packing this school year. 7 Tips to follow to Keep Your Child SafeTip #1: Start with a lightweight backpack.
Make sure the backpack is made of a lightweight but durable material. Tip #2: Make sure the shoulder straps are wide and padded. Wide, padded straps provide support and prevent the straps from becoming too tight. Your child’s straps should be snug, but not so tight that they cause discomfort. Tip #3: The back should also be padded. Padding that sits against your child’s back will provide additional support and prevent discomfort. Tip #4: Look for a backpack with a waist strap. A waist strap holds the contents closer to your child’s back, which can help him or her maintain balance. Tip #5: Multiple compartments are a plus. If your child’s backpack has multiple compartments, it will be easier to evenly distribute the weight of the items inside. The heaviest items should be packed low and toward the center of the bag. Tip #6: Both straps should be worn at all times. Make sure your child is always wearing both straps. Wearing both straps can also help distribute the weight more evenly and prevent your child from leaning to one side, which can cause pain in the neck, back, or shoulders. It also makes losing his or her balance less likely. Tip #7: Do not overload! Your child’s backpack should weight no more than 15 percent of his or her total body weight. Anything more can force children to slouch or hunch to compensate for the extra weight. Remove any items that are unnecessary, and encourage your children to carry heavier items in their arms, if possible. If your child complains of back pain or discomfort, be sure to take a look at what is in his or her backpack. Encourage your child to carry his or her backpack according to the steps above. Backpacks with wheels are also an option for children experiencing discomfort. If pain persists, it is recommended you follow up with your child’s doctor. For more information, please visit the kids’ page for backpack safety. Make sure your child has a happy, healthy school year ahead. Visit our office to get checked.
I get boatload of questions about knees, and—oddly enough—I am fascinated with knees! I spent my career as a soccer player protecting my own knees, and because knee injuries are so common, I’ve dedicated my career as a doc to learning everything I can about them and specifically how to heal from knee injuries as well as how to prevent knee injuries.
How knee injuries occur and more importantly how to prevent them, or—in the very least—help you determine if you are at risk for knee injury and reduce your risk of knee injury.... Essentially, within your knee, you have FOUR major ligaments:
CAUSES OF KNEE INJURIES Knee injuries are not always the result of a major impact, such as traumatic impacts during sports or auto accidents. The ligaments in your knees (as well as the meniscus) could easily become injured during every day actions, such as stepping off the curb, while hiking or walking your dog. Your knees may be at risk for injury
There are 3 key factors that put you at great risk for knee injury:
CRUCIATE LIGAMENTS So let's discuss the two cruciate ligaments first, (as a side note, cruciate means cross-shaped, as is the case with the two ligaments within your knee joint: they form a cross, overlapping each other, and attach from the femur to tibia. A very easy way to remember the names of your ligaments is based on their location within your knee joint: your ACL is more towards the front, while your PCL is more towards the back. Nevertheless, to dive deeper into how they work and the purpose of your knee ligaments, we can look at what they are doing to stabilize your knees. The easiest way to remember their FUNCTION is based on the movement of your tibia (the main bone in your lower leg), because they are named after the motion of the tibia they are PREVENTING. Therefore, we’ll use your tibia as a reference point, and how the ligaments prevent excessive motion of your tibia as it relates to your femur. “Your ACL is more towards the FRONT of your knee and it prevents the tibia from moving too far FORWARD, while the PCL is more towards the BACK and it prevents the tibia from moving too far BACKWARDS.” “Ligaments are thick, strong bands of tissue that connect the ends of bones together to form a joint. Ligaments also stabilize and strengthen the joint.”
ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT (ACL)
ACL FUNCTION
The main function of your ACL is preventing your tibia (shin bone) from traveling too far forward under your femur (thigh bone). Your ACL prevents forward motion of your lower leg (tibia). When your lower leg goes too far forward, it strains the ACL and causes ACL injures. ACL INJURY - Your ACL can be injured through:
POSTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT (PCL)
PCL
So let's discuss the PCL; PCL stands for your Posterior Cruciate Ligament. Now, PCL injuries are much less commonly than the ACL injuries, partially because they go unrecognized, but more because your PCL is stronger, with 2,000 times the tensile strength as your ACL. Although it is larger and stronger than the ACL, the PCL can be torn. PCL tears make up less than 20% of injuries to knee ligaments. Injuries that tear the PCL often damage some of the other ligaments or cartilage in the knee, as well. PCL FUNCTION Again, the main function of your PCL is preventing your tibia from traveling too far backwards under your femur. PCL INJURY If that's the primary function of the PCL, then the main way this ligament becomes injured is through traumatic incidences where the tibia is forcefully pushed too far backwards. PCL injuries are often due to a blow to the knee while it's bent. Common causes include falling on your knee while it's bent or striking the knee against the dashboard during an auto accident. With a car accident, as an example, say you're driving and you have your knees bent like while sitting and you have a head-on collision. When your knees collide with the dashboard, the tibia is forced backwards with the impact. Because the PCL is one of the strongest ligaments in your knee, it takes a traumatic incident or impact to injure it. That said, it could be injured if any of the above mentioned factors are at play: poor nutrition, joint misalignment, or improper biomechanics. All of those play a role. If you plant your foot and quickly change directions, as football and soccer athletes do during games, that is another way your PCL could be injured. COLLATERAL LIGAMENTS (on the sides of your knee) Now let's talk about the two collateral ligaments. Your MCL and LCL are on the middle (medial) and outside (lateral) portions of your knee, respectively.
MEDIAL COLLATERAL LIGAMENT (MCL)
MCL
So let's talk about the one injured more commonly, which is the MCL or your medial collateral ligament, on the inner part of your knee. MCL FUNCTION Your MCL prevents your knee from going inward. MCL INJURY This ligament can also be injured in a traumatic incident like a football tackle. Say someone tackles you and collides with the outer portion of your knee or thigh, and you're knee is forcefully pushed inward, that can cause an MCL injury. Another example is if you have a mal-position, with a genu-valgum where your knees are constantly in a knock-kneed position. This could lead to constant ligament strain and over time cause injury. If you have a muscle imbalance, where your gluteus maximus muscle is too weak, this can cause internal rotation of your femur. Your gluteus maximus is the main hip external rotator. Because your gluteus maximus externally rotates your hip, when it is weak your knees will always be turned inward and this can lead to your MCL being under constant stress, and can lead to your MCL becoming injured over time due to overuse.
LATERAL COLLATERAL LIGAMENT (LCL)
LCL
Now let's look at your LCL, which is not injured as frequently as the MCL. Your LCL is on the outside (lateral) portion of your knee. LCL FUNCTION Your LCL prevents your knee from going outward. LCL INJURY Your LCL could be injured—once again—through a traumatic incident. In this case, the LCL would be put under the most strain with a football tackle to the inner portion of your knees, where your knee is forcefully pushed outward. In addition, your LCL will experience strain with an “athletic move” (or a sharp change of direction) after planting your foot, and rotating. This type of rapid change of direction across your body would strain the outside of your knee and LCL on the outside leg. Like the MCL, the LCL can be injured or at risk if you have a mal-positioning known as a genu-varum, where your knees are constantly in a bowlegged position. If you're bowlegged, there is a greater amount of stress on your LCL. If you currently have a knee injury or have had a knee injury in the past, let us know. We can help you heal your knee injury and get you back “in the game.” If you're struggling to recover from a knee injury (before or after surgery) we can help you. If you play sports and want to prevent knee injuries, definitely call us and set up a visit. We can perform simple tests to determine if you are at risk for knee injury and help you set a strong foundation to prevent any knee injury to your ACL, PCL, MCL, LCL and meniscus. ============ Functional Health & Chiropractic Care 14677 Midway Rd. Ste 101, Addison, TX 75001 DrLiziePilicy.com ============ Dr. Lizie Pilicy is a chiropractor in Addison, TX who has been helping people from the Addison and North Dallas area heal, get well and stay well through chiropractic care... to help people in Dallas improve their health. Affordable Chiropractic care in Dallas, TX is available! Call today to schedule an appointment in our Addison, TX chiropractic office located at: Functional Health & Chiropractic Care 14677 Midway Rd, Ste 101 Addison, TX 75001 Phone: 978-846-1964 http://www.DrLiziePilicy.com Healing and preventing Knee Ligament Injury (ACL, PCL, MCL, & LCL). The bacteria in your gut have a huge impact on your overall health and well-being. They influence how well you digest food and absorb nutrients, the strength of your immune system, and the health of your small intestine and colon… and that barely scratches the surface. The importance of probiotics for supporting gut health cannot be overstated. The bacteria in your gut are a community and there are many types, or strains, of bacteria that make up that community. Here we’ll take a look at the nine best probiotic strains for supporting gut health, which are included in Young Living's Life-9 Probiotic Supplement.
Have you used probiotics? What’s been your experience? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts. Contact our office if you'd like to get these supplements. You can get Life-9 by calling our office, or by becoming a Young Living Wholesale Member. Either way, we're happy to support you with your health needs. Additional Probiotic Strands for healthIt's that time of year again - Back to School!
Backpack Study: Musculoskeletal pain and school bag use: a cross-sectional study among Ugandan pupils. Mwaka ES, Munabi IG, Buwembo W, Kukkiriza J, Ochieng J. BMC Res Notes. 2014 Apr 9;7:222. doi: 10.1186/1756-0500-7-222. Background Backpacks may be seen as an easy way to carry books and other "scholastic materials".. but schoolbags are believed to contribute to back and other musculoskeletal problems for kids. This study set out to determine the prevalence of low back and other musculoskeletal pains, and to describe their relationship with schoolbag use for kids. RESULTS
This study involved 532 students from six primary schools, with a mean age of 13.6 years. Only 19% had lockers at school. Backpacks were the most common type of schoolbag and young children carried disproportionately heavier bags. Urban students carried significantly heavier bags, and were less likely to complain about schoolbag weight than the rural students.
Conclusion Urban students carried significantly heavier bags, and were less likely to complain about schoolbag weight than the rural students. The majority of students complained of musculoskeletal pain, of which 35.4% was attributed to the schoolbags. Teaching kids how to pack and carry their backpacks properly can prevent the pain and problems caused by carrying heavy backpacks. Contact our office to set up your visit. Benefits of the Vibration PlatformWEIGHT LOSS Physical activity is the key to weight loss and maintaining a healthy body. Unfortunately, in today's society, not everybody has the time required to visit the gym or take part in sports activities. Using the Vibration Platform once or twice a day for between 10 and 15 minutes is the equivalent to one hour in the gym and can burn between 400-900 calories (depending on routine). WELLNESS The Vibration Platform enables athletes and those in need of physical therapy to enjoy the benefits of using vibration exercise to get ahead in the game. The wellness benefits for everyone enhance metabolism, reduce the stress hormone Cortisol, improve blood circulation and lymphatic flow, increase bone mineral density, and elevate the human growth hormone. Vibration Platform can help your body improve wellness with little impact on joints and ligaments, helping even individuals with physical limitations. 1. Tightening and toning (slimming and thinning).
2. Reduction of Cellulite. 3. Increases Bone Mineral Mass and Bone Density. 4. Reduction of training time 5. Requires very little effort. 6. Improves metabolism. 7. Increased muscle strength 8. Lowers some stress hormones 9. Improves circulation 10. Fewer varicose veins 11. Increased sense of balance. Did you know your spinal hygiene is just as important or more important than your outward bodily hygiene? That’s right! Whether you know it or not, all health and healing in your body flows from above-down, inside-out... from your brain to every single cell in your body providing life, health, and healing for a lifetime. But if you do not take proper care of your spine those messages of life that are flowing from your brain to your body will be damaged and your body will not function as it should. Since we were young we grew up understanding the importance of dental hygiene. We were taught to brush, floss, and visit a dentist regularly to maintain the health of our teeth.
The common phrase “it’s a pain in the neck” has good reason to be used in many irritating situations. Neck pain is so annoying, it can limit your ability to perform normal activities like sleeping or exercising, or even restrict you from turning your head in any particular direction, and be a nuisance. If you have neck pain, spinal correction to address the cause of the pain has statistically been proven as one of the most effective therapies for reducing symptoms, improving function, and correcting the problem for the long haul.
Neck issues can cause all sorts of irritating symptoms, such as pain in any part of your neck and head, or pain in one or both of your shoulder blades. While these types of pain are indicators of a |
AuthorDr. Lizie Pilicy, Chiropractor and Nutritional Specialist, uses innovative holistic approaches to wellness incorporating mind, body, and spirit disciplines to assist with whole-being wellness. Categories
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