Tag Archives: babies

Supercharging Fertility Through Nutrition

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Continuing on this month all about Fertility!  Last week we chatted about how the nervous system is #1 in my fertility program, because if there’s no signaling= no fertility!

#2 in my fertility protocol is nutrition.  So, this week we will briefly chat about how to supercharge your fertility through nutrition.

If you need more information about nutrition and fertility I highly recommend the book:  Woman Code!  I use tips from this book in today’s blog as well as other information from other sources and evidence based nutrition sources.

There are usually 3 things that women/men experience with endocrine problems:

1. Menstrual Problems
2. Fertility Trouble
3. Low Libido

Let’s start with number 1…..

Menstrual Problems.  Did you know that the women’s cycle doesn’t fully mature till the age of 25?!  So, there will be fluctuations within the cycle up until that age, that are normal.  However, genetics and nutritional factors determine how are bodies react to the mountain of estrogen we are bombarded with daily.

In some families they adapt to this estrogen load by presenting as PCOS, others: fibroids, others: endometriosis, PMS (PMD).

“You actually were PRIMED to develop your own unique issue before you were born, or had your first period. “
This is why it’s crucial to do something about endocrine function now!  You can actually change your epigenetics to set future generations of women down your family line up for pain free and healthy periods!
And you will also feel so much better.  Did you know you are supposed to just wake up and realize you started your period?  THIS IS NORMAL..
NOT.
The symptoms handed down from generations, cramping, bloating, pain, acne, PMS……

Number 2…..

Fertility Trouble. Our bodies as women are very fine tuned, and require a very specific ratio of progesterone to estrogen in order for conception to be successful!

Estrogen levels can become elevated by:
Poor blood sugar regulation, adrenal fatigue, congested pathways of elimination (food and product sources), birth control.

When it’s elevated, progesterone becomes insufficient.  And when progesterone is insufficient, ovulation is not regular, which means no baby….
OR.. you will get pregnant, but your chance of miscarriage is very high because you can’t produce enough progesterone to maintain it.

PCOS prevents ovulation, which is of course essential for allowing an egg to be available for conception.  Fibroids and endometriosis also cause fertility problems by creating actual blockages within the uterus or ovaries.

But, it’s easy right.. just take a pill to regulate these mentrual issues.! Right?!
So so wrong.

Pills or injections will temporarily lower symptoms I’ll give you that, but estrogen levels managed improperly for too long, and these symptoms will always come back, AND your chances of having a baby when you are ready will go way way down….

View your fertility in the long term!  By fixing these three pathways mentioned above which cause estrogen elevation.

** also important to note, if you’ve had the SUPER toxic gardasil vaccine, your fertility will also be compromised.  It has been shown in research to make young girls infertile, and also increases cervical cancer risk.  I’ve had many patients with vaccine injuries from this terrible and corrupt vaccine.  Please please say no for our young girls. **

Number 3…

Low libido… Well, you could be riding blood sugar highs and lows, stressed out from work, chasing kids around, deadlines approaching… So, getting some love from your husband/wife is safe to say not on your mind. 
You probably don’t have much energy at the end of the day to do much other than eat that chocolate or treat and collapse on the couch.

For women AND men.  Blood sugar irregulation and chronic stress = low libido.

If this cycle remains, your body will become really confused, and tell you to eat more carbs although you’ve already eaten too much.. Hypoglycemia…This then dampens the production of DHEA as cortisol is being pumped out excessively.  Which DHEA turns into testosterone (supports sex drive).

Carbs/Sugar and stress= exhausting your body= no energy for love stuff! 

So..
Enhancing Fertility through nutrition is quite simple when you think of it.

It involves these principles:

1. Stabilizing the blood sugar.
This is done through customized eating plans for you.  It’s not about dieting.  Dieting DOES NOT work.  It’s just NOT sustainable.  Eating pre-packaged foods, or limiting what you can eat so much you end up eating a whole carton of ice cream in one sitting and just say heck with it!.
Yep.. been there.

Its about reconditioning what you are eating.  I want you eating, and actually eating quite a lot to stabilize the blood sugar, but I want you feeding your fertility instead of inhibiting it.

This is all explained in my 120 day fertility program, but includes more of a ketogenic whole food plan, Organic and non GMO foods, high fat, limited grains and dairy.  This is of course customized for each patient depending on their needs.

Eating regularly and increasing good fats stabilizes the blood sugar amazingly.  In fact, when stabilized, most people are able to do intermittent fasting as well, which is so healing for the body and fertility.

2. Supporting the Adrenal Glands ( Stress Glands)
Also included in the 120 program.  Some individuals are in super high stress environments, and they need supplementation in order to get things back on track.  This involves customized herbs and whole food nutritional recommendations as well as specific NET ( a stress technique I do in my office) and stress related work to help create healthy habits.

Some individuals will need to change things within their pattern to decrease adrenal fatigue.  Whether its changing things with your job, decreasing the amount of things you are doing, working out less (yes there are many women and men who work out too much and deplete their adrenal glands), asking for help, ect.

Remember it’s a lifestyle.

3. Clearing out the estrogen and pathways of elimination .
This means first getting rid of that birth control pill or shot.  It’s harming you short and long term.  Detoxifying the body through specific herbs and whole food nutrients and going on safer birth control methods (if needed). Birth control completely depletes all your B vitamins, so this is something that has to be added in.  It also decreases your immune system, so often immune system support is needed.

Cleaning out your food sources that aren’t organic (hormones and chemicals), beauty products that aren’t organic (hormones and chemicals), plastic wear ( all estrogen), decreasing microwave use (estrogen), non natural cleaning products (toxic chemicals), cleaning up your water source, and other exogenous exposures.

I know it sounds like a lot, but these are REALLY big hormone disruptors. And over time, these wreak havoc not only on fertility but many systems and cause cancer and other illnesses as well.

Then we move onto cleaning out the main pathways of detoxification such as the Liver and large intestine, skin & lymphatic system.
This is through nutrition and chiropractic care.

Sometimes, it takes more detoxification means as well such as incorporating saunas, colon hydrotherapy, cleaning out toxic heavy metals in the mouth and body ( food sources, vaccines, passed down).

I also, always always include CBT, craniobiotic technique which helps clear out hidden infections in the body, and also desensitizes against allergens.  Both can be HUGE in being the tipping point for successful fertility.

4. Supporting the sex organs.

This is done through specific whole food nutrition supporting these organs with nutrition and what are called protomorphogens.  If you’ve taken birth control these organs will need support as they haven’t been producing the hormones because you’ve been taking fake ones.

5.  Supporting the brain glands which signal the hormones

Also done through specific whole food protomorphogens and herbals targeting to help with the signaling process.  This is also AMAZING for teenagers to help with that fluctuation I was talking about in the beginning. PMS, bloating, heavy bleeding, acne.  If you have a teen girl you will THANK ME for this one.

One herbal I use… chaste tree ( depends on quality!), is amazing for regulating the brain signaling.  If you’ve ever taken birth control this signal is damaged and needs support.

That’s it!!  haha. I know seems like a lot, but really EVERY person is different, and your path will look different from the next.  You may need some or all of these steps, but the fact of the matter is all hormone dys-regulation CAN be helped naturally.  I see it everyday!

Don’t forget about the men too!!

They also need sperm support, detoxification, stress and blood sugar support!  Remember you can actually CHANGE your epigenetics, which can change your child’s and their child’s genes to be strong and more efficient!

Often times infertility is a mix of the man and the woman.  So, most of my program’s require BOTH to be involved in the process.

Next week.

We’ll talk about Exercise and Mindset in Fertility.
Stay tuned!  And please please SHARE THIS!

Neurological & Structural Growth and Developmental Factors in Infants, and where Craniopathy Comes into play.

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Happy Monday everyone! This month is all topics on chiropractic and nutrition for children and infants.  If you missed last week’s blog I mentioned that each month will have a topic we will focus on for the ENTIRE month, as well as every Wednesday Live Facebook videos on the topic of choice!  If you have topics you’d like covered, suggested are HIGHLY welcomed:)  It is hard coming up with topics every week!

I will also be out of town the later part of this week presenting at the annual chiropractic research conference for a couple of papers I submitted.

On to this week’s topic!

This blog is about the neurological development that happens as we grow, and how chiropractic care (especially cranial care) is essential in this time.

I will be taking most information from different sources, the majority from a certified craniopath Dr. Martin Rosen as he has done so much for the pediatric chiropractic world.

Growth & Development 
How and when does the nervous system develop?

  • Total brain volume increases 101% in the first year of life, 15% in the second year.
  • Gray matter development increases 149% in the first year, white matter 11%
  • Cerebellum (cognitive) volume increases 240% in the first year
  • Lateral ventricle volume increases 280% in the first year
  • The brain reaches 80-90% of adult volume  by age two
  • The period from birth to two may be THE MOST DYNAMIC and IMPORTANT phase of postnatal brain development in humans!
The large increase in total brain volume in the first year of life suggests that this is a critical period in which disruption of developmental processes, as the result of genetic abnormalities, birth trauma, or environmental insults may have long lasting or permanent effects on brain structure and volume. 

The dural tissue.. let me explain… we have a tissue over our brain like a sac the brain sits in, which extends all the way down into the tailbone.  This tissue when under tension either from head or sacrum trauma results in neurological dysfunction developing at the spinal or cranial area are under the greatest stress.

“The primary mechanisms of injury to the spinal cord appear to be excessive traction applied to the spinal canal and cord during the birth process.” – Donn, MD Obstetrician.

This is why it’s so important to correct these structural components in an infant!  Studies have shown that these children will function at reduced capacity later in life.  It will cause compensatory patterns, to allow us to react to our environment the best we can.  However, this can cause complications.

Environmental factors come into play OF COURSE.  Being that a relatively small percentage of illnesses are really just from genetics…

Perceptions acquired before the age of six become the fundamental subconscious programs that shape the character of the individuals life!

This can even happen all the way in the womb…

Any pregnant woman who wants to give birth to a child must understand how much she affects the child in her womb.  She influences her child through the vibratory effect of her mental self, her circulation, her impulses, her feelings and all that she goes through.  The serum which flows through her spine and the change of the grey matter and neural patterns in her brain, combine with the beat of her heart and the impulse of the breath, to produce an imprint on her child’s brain. – Yogi Bhajan.

Birth trauma is REAL, and even in a normal birth, it can cause complications in the infant.  C-sections, forceps, vacuum, all have detrimental effects on how the child functions, unless these injuries to the head and body are addressed right away.  As previously mentioned, so much happens during the first 2 years of life!

Chiropractic care and cranial care for children is not just a “hoax”.  It really can be preventative, since most “patterns” we have as adults are made up till the age of seven.

Then … layer of years of other accidents, traumas, and other incidents.  It’s often times hard to actually see what the true pattern was!

Most the time I will say to my adult patients, after an initial examination, at the end of the treatment after we’ve treated and addressed many things… noww.. we had to clear ALL of that out to get to your ORIGINAL cranial compression from BIRTH.

It’s harder when you’re an adult to fix all these problems, if only children could get this care right away, you can avoid so many implications and interventions.  This is why I’m also passionate about treating children.  We have the ability to change THEIR future and development.

Wouldn’t you have liked that opportunity?  I sure would have.  It’s important now as an adult to create the best environment possible since I myself didn’t have that care.

Share this with those who have little ones or who are prepping to have little ones!  It could be LIFE changing for them.!

OIL OF THE WEEK

On the spotlight this week is DoTerra’s Marjoram. Marjoram Oil Product Description
Commonly recognized for its ability to spice foods, Marjoram essential oil is a unique cooking additive with many additional internal and external benefits. The herbaceous flavoring of Marjoram oil can be used to spice up stews, dressings, soups, and meat dishes and can take the place of dried marjoram when cooking. Aside from its culinary benefits, Marjoram can be taken internally to help support a healthy cardiovascular and immune system.* Marjoram can also be used topically and aromatically for its calming properties. It also has a positive effect on the nervous system.* The aroma of Marjoram oil is warm, herbaceous, and woody and helps promote a calming atmosphere.

Marjoram oil is a unique and valuable oil because of the extensive benefits it provides for the body. One of the most significant benefits Marjoram essential oil offers is its ability to have a positive effect on the nervous system.* Marjoram oil is also used for its calming properties. To obtain these benefits, take Marjoram oil internally, apply it to the skin topically, or use it aromatically.

Acetylcholine is an important chemical produced by the body. It plays a crucial role in numerous neurological functions as a neurotransmitter. For example, acetylcholine is necessary for muscular contraction, the function of the cerebellar cortex, hippocampus and other neurologic structures. Recent research has even begun to suggest that healthy acetylcholine levels may correspond directly to healthy neurological function.1 An in vitro study lead by Tunisian researchers found that Marjoram essential oil inhibits enzymes that degrade acetylcholine. While further investigation is needed, these findings add to a growing body of research suggesting the use of essential oils in maintaining neurological health.*

Another powerful benefit of Marjoram essential oil is its ability to support a healthy immune system.* To help support your immune system with Marjoram oil, dilute one drop of Marjoram into 4 fl. oz. of liquid and drink. You can also put Marjoram oil into a Veggie Capsule and ingest.

While working on long, intense projects, apply Marjoram essential oil to the back of the neck to lessen feelings of stress. Marjarom oil contains calming properties that help relax emotions during stressful moments. Applying Marjoram essential oil topically can help provide the calming feelings you need to get through difficult or strenuous tasks.

The cardiovascular system includes one of the most fundamental and crucial parts of the body—the heart. Because of its prominence in keeping the body running, it is important to support your body’s cardiovascular system. Marjoram oil may promote a healthy cardiovascular system, helping to give your body essential strength that it may need.* These benefits can be obtained by taking Marjoram essential oil internally.

Indulge in a creamy, Low-Fat Spinach and Artichoke Dip that will have you coming back for seconds. Combining the rich flavors of cheese and yogurt with the nutrients of artichoke, jalapenos, and spinach, topped with a hint of Marjoram, this recipe will be hard to replace. This essential oil recipe is easy to make and is an instant crowd pleaser—perfect for office parties and holiday gatherings.

If “Rock-a-bye Baby” doesn’t seem to be lulling your child to sleep, don’t worry; just use some Marjoram oil. Prior to a nap, apply Marjoram essential oil to a fussy child’s feet. The calming properties of Marjoram oil will help soothe the child, helping him or her to rest easily and peacefully.

Marjoram is a great spice to have in the kitchen and can help spice up a variety of dishes. Next time a recipe calls for dried Marjoram, replace it with Marjoram essential oil for a convenient and spicy flavoring that will take your meal to the next level. Usually, one drop of Marjoram essential oil is equivalent to two tablespoons of dried Marjoram.

To bring relief to your muscles, apply Marjoram essential oil to the desired areas of your skin before and after exercising. Marjoram is also a perfect oil to add to a soothing massage blend for targeting tired and stressed muscles.

Fun Fact
In Germany, the marjoram herb is known as the “Goose Herb” for its traditional use in roasting geese.

Plant Description
The marjoram plant, Origanum majorana, is an herbaceous perennial that is a member of the Lamiaceae family. This plant can grow to be one to two feet in height and can spread an equal distance. This plant is busy with fragrant, ovate leaves that are gray-green in color. Tiny, tubular flowers that are white or pale pink bloom in clusters on this plant.1 doTERRA Marjoram essential oil is extracted from the leaves of the plant.

 

That is all for now.

Wishing you all a happy and healthy week.

Dr. Hamel