Anti-Inflammatory Herbs & Spices You Should Add To Your Diet

Did you know that chronic inflammation in the body has been linked to a wide range of illnesses, diseases and health complications? These include cancer, diabetes, ADHD and even heart disease among many others. Luckily, with modifications to your diet you can decrease the inflammation that occurs within your body, reducing your risks of these problems.

Today, Dawn Potter Acupuncture in Clearwater is discussing various anti-inflammatory herbs and spices that can help. Got questions? Interested in scheduling an appointment? Reach out to Dawn Potter Acupuncture today, we’re welcoming new patients.

Turmeric (Curcumin)

Perhaps one of the most discussed anti-inflammatory spices, Turmeric has long been used in Chinese medicine to aid in inflammation reduction, the treatment of digestive orders and even to address infections and certain wounds. Turmeric contains Curcumin (the compound that gives turmeric its yellow pigment) and can be added to a variety of foods and drinks. Supplements of Curcumin are also available in various forms.

Chili Peppers (Capsaicin)

Like a little spice in your diet? Well you’re in luck! Different kinds of chili peppers contain capsaicin (which makes it hot) and is known to have an anti-inflammatory effect in the body. All chili peppers contain capsaicin and can be used in a variety of dishes to increase the heat. Supplements are also available.

Black Pepper (Piperine)

Black pepper is an extremely common spice that you’ll find on the table at most homes and restaurants. Black pepper contains a chemical known as piperine (giving it the distinctive flavor) which even at low doses can reduce inflammation in the body along with reducing the perception of pain in some patients. (And it helps the body to absorb and utilize turmeric!)

Ginger

Ginger is another common spice that has shown great results in reducing inflammation in the body, among other things. Ginger is a wonderful addition to many dishes along with drinks. You can even make a nice strong tea using just the root.

Contact Dawn Potter Acupuncture in Clearwater, Florida Today

Ready to try these wonderful anti-inflammatory spices and herbs in your diet? Let us know what you think! Interested in scheduling acupuncture in Clearwater or another treatment option? Contact Dawn Potter Acupuncture today.

Cold & Flu Season: Staying Healthy Tips

With the pandemic still raging on, it may be more important than ever to stay vigilant this cold and flu season. Do you know that there are certain things you can do to improve your immune system and stay well during this year’s flu or cold seasons? Today, we’re discussing tips for staying healthy this year. Got questions? Interested in scheduling an appointment? Feel free to reach out to Dawn Potter Acupuncture in Clearwater, Florida today.

Tips for Staying Healthy

When it comes to staying healthy during cold and flu seasons there are quite a few things you can do, including:

1. Going to bed early, and getting enough sleep can greatly benefit your immune system and overall health.

2. Stay active, get outside, take walks, start a new workout routine. Staying active can keep your body healthier, making you less likely to get sick in the first place.

3. Reduce your stress, try meditation or removing negativity from your life. Stress can be a big hindrance to your immune system and overall well being

4. Eating healthier may be one of the most important steps you can take. Reduce foods that lead to inflammation such as white flour, sugar and saturated fats. Instead, eat a lot of vegetables, legumes, herbs and spices. Whole, fresh or frozen fruit can also be good. If you are eating grains, opt for whole grains. Try to avoid oils, and get your healthy fats from whole food sources like avocado, nuts and seeds. And if eating animal protein, make sure it is organic, hormone-free and free-range. Most animal protein is full of inflammatory omega-6 fats, due to unhealthy rearing practices.

Acupuncture for Colds & Flu?

Along with lifestyle changes, certain treatments such as acupuncture have been proven to reduce the risk of cold and flu along with reducing the symptoms associated if you end up sick.

Why Dawn Potter Acupuncture For Your Natural Flu & Cold Treatments?

Dawn Potter Acupuncture has been providing a more natural approach to care in the Clearwater/Palm Harbor/Tarpon Springs community for over a decade. We have a range of treatment options depending upon your exact needs.

Schedule Cold & Flu Treatments in Clearwater, Florida

Have questions regarding diet or lifestyle changes? Interested in trying acupuncture in Clearwater? Reach out to Dawn Potter Acupuncture today, we’re welcoming new patients and would be delighted to help with your needs.

Near Infrared Light Treatment, Inflammation Reduction & Long-Covid?

Do you experience inflammation throughout the body? Have you been labeled with “long-covid” syndrome or symptoms? Interested in a more natural approach to the inflammation occurring in your body? Considering near infrared light therapy in Clearwater? Today, Dawn Potter Acupuncture is discussing recent research into photobiomodulation therapy (red/near infrared light treatment), how that research supports inflammation treatment and what it could mean for those experience symptoms due to COVID infection. Have additional questions? Interested in scheduling a free 15 minute phone consultation to discuss light therapy? We would be happy to help with any of your needs. Simply reach out today.

What Is Near Infrared Light Treatment? Near Infrared Light therapy is a treatment option that has been used for a variety of conditions with underlying inflammatory issues for over a century. Special lights are used to expose an area to specific wavelengths of light. These lights come in different shape, sizes and configurations depending upon the exact use. Depending upon the exact light, the wavelength emitted can be vastly different as well. This recent research discusses which lights may be best and the different ways they can be used. How Can Clearwater Photobiomodulation Therapy Help? Results from a recent study showed that infrared exposure therapy can interact with the key inflammatory response pathway known to be deregulated among COVID-19 patients. Regulating this pathway may be effective in reducing the overall inflammatory response that may be caused by those experiencing inflammation such as that caused by COVID-19. More in-depth information and results of the research can be found here: Infrared light therapy relieves TLR-4 dependent hyper-inflammation of the type induced by COVID-19

if you would prefer a video that summarizes the information a bit better to understand, you can also watch this video on the topic: Near Infrared Light Reduces Inflammation via TLR4 In Vitro Dawn Potter's light panels are FDA-approved Class II Medical Devices. They emit 5 wavelengths of red & NIR light: 630, 660, 810, 830 & 850nm. Each wavelength penetrates through the body tissues to a specific depth and has its own special benefits as discussed in the research above.

Near Infrared Light Treatment Risks? When done incorrectly, skin burns can occur during near infrared light therapy, however, when done properly, there are no reported risks and the treatment has been approved for various medical applications.

Start Near Infrared Light Treatment in Clearwater, Florida Today

Interested in starting treatment? Contact us today to schedule your free 15 minute phone consultation. We would be happy to discuss which treatment options may be right for your needs.