HEALTH
SIMPLE WAYS TO SUPPORT YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM By Dr. Jenna Dye, Naturopathic Physician
D
ue to our ever-changing health situation, now more than ever, we must protect and enhance our immune system. Our immune system can be hindered by preexisting illnesses, inflammation, stress, diet and nutrient deficiencies. There are simple ways to enhance your immunity to keep you and your family healthy during the entire year.
SLEEP Sleep is extremely important for the immune system and it is often sacrificed when we are busy with everyday life. I encourage at least eight hours or more of sleep per night. I also suggest eliminating electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bed. If you need to be on electronic devices, it is a good idea to invest in a pair of blue light blocking glasses to help block the stimulatory effects the light has on your brain. Find a healthy sleep routine for you and your family to ensure restful sleep.
DIET/NUTRITION Food can be a major source of inflammation or anti-inflammation depending on what you eat. I recommend fueling your body with nutrient dense food such as colorful fruits and vegetables. These colorful foods are high in antioxidants to help the strengthen immunity and provide proper nutritional support. Balanced meals, plenty of water and minimal processed foods are all excellent ways to enhance the immune system. Sugar can directly inhibit immunity and increase inflammation, so I always recommend low sugar diets, especially when we are trying to protect the immune system.
to eliminate stressful events in our life, it is important to learn how to properly manage the stress to keep us healthy.
EXERCISE/STRESS Exercise can directly increase immunity by increasing circulation and stimulating immune cells. Regular, daily activity when you are not sick is essential for the immune system. Exercise can also help us relieve stress. Stress has a negative impact on the immune system and directly decreases our immune response. Although it can difficult
GASTROINTESTINAL SYSTEM SUPPORT Our digestive system is directly correlated with our immune system. Constipation, diarrhea, gas and bloating can all decrease overall immunity. Finding the underlying causes of these symptoms is the first step to decreasing inflammation and supporting the immune system. A high-quality probiotic supplement
NUTRIENT DEFICIENCIES Nutrient deficiencies are common and can play a big role on how our immune system responds to illnesses. Common deficiencies I typically see are Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Zinc and Vitamin C. It is important to discuss this with your physician or have certain nutrient levels checked. A healthy diet consisting of fruits and vegetables can help support nutrient deficiencies along with appropriate supplementation.
can be helpful to restore and balance beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal system once the underlying cause of any disruption is identified and supported. Food sensitivities and/or food allergies can also increase inflammation in the gut and cause decreased immunity and should be avoided. SEE YOUR NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN See your naturopathic physician for more individualized support. Underlying health conditions can also affect your immune system. A naturopathic physician can offer a more personalized approach for your specific health care needs.
Dr. Jenna Dye is a licensed naturopathic physician. Her role is to support the body’s foundation to restore and maintain optimal health. Together with her patients, this is achieved by identifying and removing barriers that may be impacting health while creating a healing environment. For more information, visit drjennadye.com.
MAY IS SKIN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH: TIPS TO SPOT SKIN CANCER EARLY
By Dr. Pablo Prichard
W
hile skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., when caught early it is almost always curable. There are two different types: melanoma and non-melanoma, which includes basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. By learning these early signs, you’ll be able to catch cancer in its most treatable stage. MELANOMA This is the deadliest form of skin cancer, making it the most important to be aware of. Melanoma can be found anywhere on the body but is most common in areas exposed to the sun including the head, neck, upper back, torso and lower legs. It can appear suddenly or develop from an existing mole. The simplest way to spot melanoma is to follow the “ABCDE” rule. Keep these guidelines in mind when looking at a potentially cancerous area: • Asymmetry: Moles and freckles are typically symmetrical. Make note if the area is now irregular. • Border: If a spot that was once round is now blurred or jagged, it should be looked at by a doctor. northtatumtimes.com
• Color: A mole should be one color. Any lightening or darkening could be a sign of cancer. • Diameter: Any growth larger than a pencil eraser should be examined even if there aren’t other abnormalities. • Elevation: Look for growths that have an uneven surface or irregularity. BASAL CELL CARCINOMA This skin cancer begins in the basal cells, which produce new skin cells as old ones die off. It typically appears as a slightly transparent bump on the skin but can also present in other forms. The following could also be signs of basal cell carcinoma: flat, firm, pale areas like a scar; raised red patches, and small translucent bumps that are pink or red or a pearl-like shine. SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA Squamous cells make up the outer layer of the skin. This type of cancer often looks like scaly patches or raised growths similar to warts with a lower area in the center. Squamous cell carcinoma is more likely to grow deep and spread locally,
causing tissue destruction, so catching it early is key to a quick recovery. Make it a goal to examine your skin once a month. If you see an area that concerns you, such as any new spots, a sore that won’t heal, or a growth that is itchy, painful or tender, share that with your doctor immediately even if you think it may not be serious. People with lighter skin are more susceptible to skin cancer than people with darker skin, as melanin, the pigment in the skin, is somewhat protective. Still, everyone should avoid the sun as much as possible and wear sunblock when outside. Pablo Prichard, M.D. has been the Chief of Plastic Surgery at HonorHealth John C. Lincoln Hospital for 14 years, Medical Director for Plastic Surgery and is Senior Partner at Advanced Aesthetics Associates. Dr. Prichard serves more than 2,000 patients every year and has specialized in both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures. For more information, visit drprichard.com and follow on Instagram @pabloprichard. NORTH TATUM TIMES • May 2020 • 9
