Anxiety and Depression: Is there Relief? I was told once that my depression was a choice. That I could simply choose to wake up happy with my life and motivated to do the simple things. Imagine sunshine and rainbows and then I would be okay. I was told my depression was because I was choosing to focus on everything wrong and choosing to wake up feeling like the world was crashing around me. It was the same with my anxiety. I was choosing to worry. I was choosing to lose the ability to breathe in the middle of a grocery store. I was actively choosing mental illness. Anyone else?? Well, I’m here to tell you that was a lie. I did not choose to suffer from depression or anxiety. However, my body was talking to me and telling me that something was off within my system. Something wasn’t working right. My progesterone was very, very low the 2 weeks prior to my period which would spike my anxiety, my chronic stress had knocked my vagus nerve offline and as a result I also had belly issues(which led to brain fog) and paradoxically my stress hormones would spike. My blood sugar was a mess and so I couldn't make neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine properly which led to depression and low motivation. AAAGH! I didn't start healing until I started my functional medicine journey with Dr. Starling and I am here to tell you that you too can heal. My mental health wasn’t a choice, but the way I chose to manage it and pay attention to it was. Ignoring mental illness...
Adrenal Burnout: The Silent Saboteur of Your Mood, Energy, and Hormones Adrenal fatigue is a condition that affects countless individuals, leading to chronic exhaustion, brain fog, and difficulty handling stress. Are you struggling with adrenal fatigue? If you are experiencing: Fatigue, fatigue after emotional upset, difficulty waking rested, dizziness when standing quickly, afternoon drop in energy and sugar cravings(this includes pasta & bread) or even anxiety. At The Healing Center in Denver, we take a functional medicine approach to adrenal fatigue, helping our patients restore their energy and overall well-being. Let’s explore the recovery timeline and how you can speed up the healing process. Understanding Adrenal Fatigue Adrenal fatigue occurs when your adrenal glands, which produce hormones like cortisol to help manage stress, become overworked. The most common reason for this is blood sugar imbalance due to chronic fungal overgrowth(think sugar cravings) but can also be due to chronic stress, poor sleep, and an imbalanced diet, leading to symptoms such as: Persistent fatigue Brain fog and difficulty concentrating Sleep disturbances Cravings for salty or sugary foods Dizziness upon standing Mood swings and anxiety While adrenal fatigue is not recognized as a formal medical diagnosis in conventional medicine, functional medicine practitioners acknowledge the impact of blood sugar imbalance and prolonged stress on adrenal function and overall health. Factors Affecting Recovery Time The time it takes to recover from adrenal fatigue varies widely based on individual circumstances. Some key factors include: 1. Severity of Adrenal Fatigue Recovery time depends on how depleted your adrenal glands are. Functional medicine practitioners often categorize adrenal fatigue into stages: Mild adrenal fatigue: Symptoms are present but...
Tolerating not feeling great is not normal! It’s Time to Take Control Do you ever find yourself frustrated with how you are feeling day to day? You wake up and when your feet hit the floor, everything that can go wrong, does go wrong. You are living by force of will or feeling anxious all the time? You just feel icky or tired? Your brain is fuzzy or your moods are all over the place? You are not alone. In fact, I can bet that there are millions of stuck-in-a-rut people just like you. And here’s a little secret…everyone has been stuck at one point in their life. Health. Career. Finances. Relationships. At one point or another, we find ourselves stuck. It’s time to get unstuck. Do you want to take control? Do you want things to change? This is a mental game. It’s a choice. We all were given choices in this life. We get to choose how this life goes. Of course, there’s circumstances outside of our control, but did you know that we have a choice even in the midst of those circumstances? True healing begins when you start to look at the root causes of your symptoms and take charge of your personal well-being. Are you ready? Listen to Your Body A lot of the time we think that our symptoms are the enemy and the primary thing that needs to be fixed. That’s not true! Our symptoms are our body’s way of communicating with us and telling us where to look. Symptoms like fatigue, bloating, brain fog, chronic pain, and hormonal imbalances aren’t just...
Is your body a trash can or a zen garden? The ultimate guide to detoxification. In today’s world, we are constantly exposed to toxins—through the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the products we use daily. For those struggling with chronic illness, an overburdened detoxification system can be a major roadblock to healing. Functional medicine takes a root-cause approach to detoxification, supporting the body’s natural ability to cleanse itself and restore balance. Making sure that your body’s detoxification system is working properly is essential for a strong immune system, eliminating symptoms, and overall an optimal life. Functional Medicine Services Denver focus on the body’s natural detoxification systems. The liver, kidneys, gut, lymphatic system, skin, and lungs all play essential roles in detoxification. However, when these pathways become sluggish due to toxin overload, inflammation, or poor nutrition, harmful substances accumulate in the body. This can contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, and autoimmune flare-ups. Functional medicine focuses on identifying and eliminating toxic burdens while enhancing the body’s detox pathways naturally. Key Detoxification Pathways 1. Liver – Your Main Detox Organ The liver is responsible for filtering toxins from the blood and converting them into waste for elimination. This process occurs in two phases with a third in the gut: Phase 1: Breaks down toxins to get ready for throwing away Phase 2: Converts these compounds into water-soluble forms so they can be put into the ”trash” Supporting the liver with key nutrients like glutathione, B vitamins, and antioxidants ensures the first 2 phases function optimally 2. Gut – Eliminating Toxins Effectively Phase 3:...
How do Chiropractic adjustments fit into a Functional Medicine approach? Chiropractic adjustments, one of the most well-known forms of alternative therapy, are often part of a comprehensive treatment plan for musculoskeletal issues. But many patients wonder if chiropractic adjustments are safe, and how they work. Let’s explore the safety of chiropractic care, its effectiveness, and how it fits within the broader framework of functional medicine. What Are Chiropractic Adjustments? Chiropractic adjustments are manual manipulations of the spine and other parts of the body performed by licensed chiropractors. These adjustments aim to correct misalignments, known as subluxations, which can cause pain, inflammation, and impaired function of the nervous system. Chiropractors use their hands or small instruments to apply controlled pressure to joints in a way that restores mobility, relieves pain, and supports overall wellness. While chiropractic care is most commonly associated with back and neck pain, it can also benefit patients experiencing a variety of health issues, including: Headaches and migraines Sciatica Joint pain Sports injuries Postural problems Chiropractic adjustments are not limited to spinal manipulations. Chiropractors also incorporate exercises, nutritional counseling, and lifestyle advice into their treatment plans, providing personalized medicine that aligns with the principles of functional medicine. How Do Chiropractic Adjustments Work? Chiropractic care works by addressing the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. Your nervous system is responsible for controlling and coordinating all bodily functions, and spinal health plays a crucial role in maintaining this balance. Misalignments in the spine, whether caused by injury, poor posture, or stress, can interfere with the communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Here's a step-by-step...
What are the Symptoms of Thyroid Problems, and When Should I Get Checked? A vast number of people suffer from some type of thyroid problem. What’s alarming is that a vast number of them don’t know they have it. It’s typical for people to believe that some thyroid symptoms such as lack of sleep and chronic fatigue are “daily stress.” These symptoms are easy to ignore, but the consequences of delaying diagnosis and treatment can be severe. Over time, untreated thyroid problems can create health complications ranging from heart problems and a high risk for osteoporosis. Symptoms of thyroid problems differ based on the cause. An overactive thyroid can cause diarrhea, weight loss, and heat sensitivity. On the contrary, an underactive thyroid can make you gain weight, become constipated, and experience cold sensitivity. What is a Thyroid? The thyroid gland is a fundamental part of the endocrine system. This butterfly-shaped organ, located at the bottom part of your neck and wrapped around the trachea, controls vital hormones that affect several bodily functions. Additionally, these hormones also affect how well your body works mentally and physically. For instance, if you aren’t feeling good for no reason, your body might be displaying symptoms of a thyroid problem. This hormone plays a vital role in your body, regulating: Metabolism Heart rate Body temperature Energy levels Weight And more You will have thyroid problems if your thyroid is generating too much hormone (hyperthyroidism) or if it isn’t generating enough hormone (hypothyroidism). Causes of Thyroid Problems Thyroid problems usually result from a lack of physical activity. Other risk factors include: A family history of thyroid...
Is PEMF Therapy Effective for Pain Relief? Chronic pain is a daily challenge for millions of people, limiting mobility, diminishing quality of life, and often leading to dependence on medications that carry risks of side effects or addiction. As the search for non-invasive, drug-free pain relief continues, Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy has emerged as a promising solution. But what is PEMF therapy, and how effective is it for managing pain? What Is PEMF Therapy? PEMF therapy for pain management uses low-frequency electromagnetic waves to stimulate and heal the body at a cellular level. Unlike static magnets, which provide constant magnetic fields, PEMF therapy delivers pulsed electromagnetic waves that penetrate deep into tissues. These pulses interact with the body’s natural electrical activity, enhancing cellular function and promoting repair. The therapy typically involves lying on a mat or using a handheld device that emits electromagnetic waves. Sessions are painless, non-invasive, and typically last 20–30 minutes, making it a convenient option for those seeking natural pain relief. How Does PEMF Therapy Work? At its core, PEMF therapy works by improving cellular health. Cells in the human body rely on electromagnetic energy to function. When cells become damaged or stressed due to injury, illness, or aging, their electrical charge diminishes, impairing their ability to function and repair. PEMF therapy helps restore this balance by: Improving Circulation: The electromagnetic pulses enhance blood flow, ensuring that oxygen and nutrients reach affected tissues more efficiently. Reducing Inflammation: By stimulating cellular repair, PEMF therapy helps decrease inflammation, a primary driver of pain. Boosting Cellular Metabolism: It energizes cells, improving their ability to absorb nutrients and expel waste....
Can Functional Medicine Be Used Alongside Conventional Medical Treatments? When it comes to healthcare, many people find themselves torn between conventional medicine and seeing a Functional Medicine Doctor. Conventional medicine, with its proven treatments like medications and surgeries, has been the go-to for years. But functional medicine takes a different approach, focusing on uncovering and treating the root causes of illness, rather than simply alleviating symptoms. The good news is that functional medicine can be used alongside conventional medical treatments, offering a complementary approach that can help enhance outcomes, promote overall wellness, and improve quality of life. But how exactly can these two approaches work together, and what are the benefits? Let’s explore how functional medicine can be integrated with conventional medical treatments and why this hybrid approach may be the key to achieving optimal health. What is Functional Medicine? Before we dive into how functional medicine can work alongside conventional medicine, it’s important to understand what functional medicine is all about. Functional medicine is an approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of diseases, rather than just treating symptoms. It emphasizes understanding the unique genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that contribute to a person’s health. Functional medicine practitioners use advanced diagnostic testing and a systems-based approach to pinpoint the underlying causes of health issues, which may include nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, chronic inflammation, gut health issues, or environmental toxins. Functional medicine goes beyond merely prescribing medications to manage symptoms. Instead, it aims to create individualized treatment plans that may include dietary and lifestyle changes, stress management techniques, supplements, and other natural therapies to restore balance to...
Are There Any Side Effects or Risks Associated with NAET Treatment? For individuals seeking alternative therapies for allergies and sensitivities, Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Techniques (NAET) has become a popular choice. NAET combines principles of acupuncture, chiropractic care, nutrition, and kinesiology to identify and address allergic responses at their root. At The Healing Center, a trusted provider of NAET treatment in Denver, we often encounter questions about the safety of NAET and whether it poses any risks or side effects. Understanding NAET Treatment NAET is a non-invasive therapy designed to help the body reduce or eliminate adverse reactions to allergens. This approach aims to restore balance and alleviate symptoms caused by food, environmental, or chemical sensitivities. A typical NAET session involves: Allergen Identification: Practitioners use muscle response testing (kinesiology) to identify substances triggering allergic responses. Desensitization: Acupressure or acupuncture techniques are applied to specific points on the body while the patient is exposed to the allergen. The goal of NAET is to retrain the body’s response to allergens, enabling individuals to tolerate previously problematic substances without adverse reactions. Is NAET Safe? NAET is generally regarded as a safe and non-invasive therapy. It does not rely on medications, injections, or surgical procedures, making it an appealing option for those seeking natural alternatives to conventional allergy treatments. However, like any therapeutic approach, individual experiences can vary, and it’s essential to understand both the potential benefits and risks. Potential Side Effects of NAET Treatment While NAET is considered safe for most individuals, some people may experience mild side effects as their body adjusts to the treatment. These side effects are typically short-lived and include:...
The Role of Nutrition and Exercise in Functional Medicine Functional medicine is a patient-centered, holistic approach to health that focuses on the whole person rather than just their symptoms. Two cornerstones of functional medicine are proper nutrition and regular exercise, which play crucial roles in promoting healing and preventing chronic illness. At The Healing Center in Denver, our functional medicine doctors create personalized plans that address every aspect of your well-being. As part of this approach, we offer Nutritional Therapy to help patients optimize their diet and achieve lasting health improvements. Nutrition in Functional Medicine The foods we eat are more than just fuel - they are fundamental in maintaining health, preventing disease, and healing the body. Functional medicine recognizes the profound impact of nutrition on the body, from the immune system to hormonal balance, gut health, and even mental well-being. How Poor Nutrition Contributes to Chronic Disease A diet rich in processed foods, sugars, unhealthy fats, and chemical additives can lead to a host of chronic conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune disorders. These conditions often arise because of prolonged inflammation, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and gut dysbiosis - all of which are heavily influenced by poor dietary choices. In contrast, a nutrient-dense, whole-foods-based diet can reverse inflammation, improve metabolic function, and support the immune system. Our functional medicine doctors in Denver emphasize the importance of identifying and addressing specific nutritional deficiencies, food intolerances, and imbalances that might be contributing to a patient’s condition. Personalizing Your Nutrition Plan One of the key differences between conventional medicine and functional medicine is the emphasis on personalization....
