Issue 166 - Tammy Tran

I S S U E 1 6 5 | TOPDOC CLINICS

SEEING MEDICINE AS MORE THAN JUST PHYSICAL TREATMENT: AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. RAMY MITWALLI, M.D. HOW TO BUILD YOUR MENTAL FITNESS

PG 48

PG 40

THE INNOVATION OF TOPDOC CLINICS AND ESTABLISHED COMMUNITY PRACTICES: An Interview With Tammy Tran PG 34

Being in the community makes it easier to interface with patients and form connections with them.

- TA M M Y T R A N

T O P D O C C L I N I C S M I A M I AT T H E F O U R S E A S O N S O F F E R I N G B O DY C O N TO U R I N G, FAC I A L R E J U V E NAT I O N, & L A S E R T H E R A P Y

magazine EDITOR IN CHIEF:

Brianna Connors

JUNIOR EDITOR:

Riley George

CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER:

H a n n a h To w n e s

MARKETING DIRECTOR:

Derek Archer

SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST:

Lauren Rider

GRAPHIC DESIGNER:

Sarah Cook

contributors Adreana Mendez A n n Y. Drew B. Gaye Newton Gentry Shannon Ionuț Raicea

Louisa Emhof Luke Argue Mălina O. R. Nathan Pipkin Peter C. Yuko Tabasa

a letter from the editor

Living a healthy and balanced life is a daily challenge many of us face. With the constant flow of medical advancements and health trends in lifestyle mixed with the busy rhythm of our lives, we often are prevented from learning these new techniques to improve our lives for the betterment of our health.

Here at Top Doctor Magazine, we are on a mission to bring these advancements to your attention and become a source of inspiration for those who want to live their healthiest and best lives. We seek to bridge the gap between medical professionals and consumers who are seeking to improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Our contributors guarantee to constantly keep you up to date in the latest health trends and medical advancements with fresh, entertaining, and reliable content, varying from anything like nutrition and travel to lifestyle choices and the latest medical technologies!

We hope that our exclusive articles, recipes, and pieces will guide you towards self-realization, self-improvement, and willingness to help those around you better themselves in every health aspect. Because we at Top Doctor Magazine know that when you look your best, feel your best, and understand your health best, you can be the greatest version of yourself possible.

FEATURED 10 Food Ideas for a Healthy Pregnancy

contents 16 What Amino Acids Are Essential?

18 Why Do We Hiccup?

22 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

28 What Are the Benefits of Sweating?

40 How to Build Your Mental Fitness

FEATURED

34 The Innovation of Top Doc Clinics and Established Community Practices: An Interview With Tammy Tran

49 8

44 How Chinese Medicine May Be the Solution to Your Chronic Issues: An Interview with Dr. Laura Capina

48 Seeing Medicine as More Than Just Physical Treatment: An Interview with Dr. Ramy Mitwalli, M.D.

48

56 Looking for a Natural Alternative to the Pill?

60 What To Eat During Your Period

56

66 What Are the Benefits of Exercise During Your Period?

60

72 Breath Analysis: How the Invention of PNOE Could Change Healthcare Forever

66 Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 9

10

Food Ideas for a Healthy Pregnancy WRITTEN BY MĂLINA O. R.

P

regnancy is one of the most draining life episodes a woman can experience. While pregnancy is also a beautiful experience, it is challenging and power-draining, too. Not only does a pregnant

woman have to care for herself, but she also must care for the child that is growing inside her as well. Now, everything she eats will be directly consumed by the child, and that is why she has to be as careful as possible with what she’s eating.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 11

Healthy Pregnancy Guidelines Many

parents,

especially

pregnant

women, have questions about a healthy diet for their unborn baby. Many people will have advice ready for you, so it may be hard to decide whom you should listen to. The most important thing you have to consider is prenatal nutrition throughout every piece of advice you will hear.

Prenatal nutrition has to be taken into account before and during the pregnancy.

If you are planning a pregnancy, keep the following facts in mind:

the low mercury level, they are a great

as milk, cheese and yogurt. Always pick

source of protein, iron and zinc.

the low-fat varieties such as 1% fat milk, skimmed milk, semi-skimmed milk, low-

Switch Beverages with Water

fat yogurt and low-sugar yogurt. Also,

Although not food, water is crucial for a

soya milk and yogurt are great choices.

healthy pregnancy. Besides the nutrients it carries, water keeps your body cool and

The safe choices are cheddar, stilton and

prevents constipation. It also controls

parmesan when talking about cheese.

swelling, a typical symptom of pregnancy.

Although these cheeses are produced

Try keeping a water bottle next to you at

with unpasteurized milk, they don’t

all times.

contain as much water, so bacteria are less likely to develop. Instead, try to

Foods for a Healthy Pregnancy A healthy diet equals a healthy pregnancy.

Variety is Essential Fruits,

vegetables

Although a healthy diet should be and

whole-grain

followed by everyone, it’s crucial for a

foods should be part of your diet when

pregnant woman. Try and shape your

preparing for a pregnancy. These foods

diet by including the following foods and

will solidify your nutritional health and

nutrients into your diet:

the baby’s as well. The more vegetables and fruits on your plate, the better. Are

Carbohydrates

you feeling snacky? Grab a baby carrot,

Carbohydrates, found in starchy foods,

celery or apple!

are essential for a healthy pregnancy because they contain a high energy

Remember That You’re Eating for

source, vitamins and fiber. If you’re trying

Two Now

to cut on some calories or having a bad

It’s common for women to have a larger

day and don’t feel like overeating, starchy

appetite during pregnancy—you’re not

food will make you feel full quickly.

the only one that needs food anymore. A pregnant woman needs more and more

Foods such as bread, potatoes, rice,

calories as the unborn child develops.

noodles, pasta, oats, yams, cereals, millet

So, to support the baby’s growth, try

and corn are all high in carbohydrates

adding an extra snack or small meal to

and healthy for your pregnancy. Choose

your diet as much as possible. Although

whole grain and higher-fiber foods over

you may not feel like having another bite,

refined white food such as brown rice and

remember that the healthy growth of

whole-grain pasta. Try to add these foods

your baby depends on it.

into your diet until they make about a

choose cheese made with pasteurized milk, such as cottage cheese, mozzarella, paneer, halloumi and cream cheese.

Protein Your diet has to be as rich in protein as possible but within the healthy limits.

Proteins are essential for a healthy pregnancy as the nutritional demand on a pregnant woman is enormous. Foods such as beans, some fish, eggs, meat (without liver), nuts, pulses and nuts are all packed with protein for you and your baby.

Beverages Are smoothies healthy for pregnancy?

Besides water, smoothies are an excellent choice for a healthy pregnancy. They are a splendid way of consuming as many vegetables and fruits. Because women experience nausea and vomiting during the first trimester, smoothies are essential to take the vitamins you need and keep you and your baby healthy. They are easy and fast to put together, can be taken on to go, and are pleasing to the eye.

third of it.

Eat Fish with Low Mercury Levels

12

"Although a healthy diet

The mercury found in certain fish can be

Dairy

detrimental to your pregnancy.

Calcium, folate and iron from dairy

should be followed by

products are necessary for the healthy

everyone, it’s crucial for a

Opt for fish with low levels of mercury,

development of the unborn child. These

such as salmon and anchovies. Besides

nutrients are all found in products such

pregnant woman."

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 13

14

Food and Meal Ideas for a Healthy Pregnancy

at breakfast. Have a fiesta salad with

occupied and always satiated. Try a

salad, black beans, corn, sweet potatoes

mozzarella and melon plate next time

and diced tomatoes. Besides being low

you’re preparing a snack.

It may be challenging to prepare

We are all carving for a tasty burger

easier to digest. Prepare a whole-grain

healthy food three times a day

from time to time. Maybe a veggie

cereal bowl with some bananas and

without even thinking about snacks. It

burger will settle down your appetite.

non-dairy milk.

experiencing crazy carvings, usually

You are now realizing how delicious

consisting of unhealthy foods that

veggies are and how many meals you

mess up your diet. Yet, it’s imperative

can prepare with them. A veggie and

Foods to Avoid during Pregnancy

to stay on course for the healthy

hummus pita with eggs, tomatoes and

development of your baby, and certain

cucumber will leave you wanting more.

in sugar, the taste is fantastic!

Maybe you’re in search of something

becomes even more complicated when

healthy pregnancy food recipes will help you stay on the right path!

#3: Healthy Pregnancy Dinner

#1: Healthy Pregnancy Breakfast

No one can stay away from lasagna. It’s just impossible. For the next dinner,

Breakfast is the most important meal

prepare a skillet ravioli lasagna with

of the day. It gives you the energy you

fresh mozzarella and, if you’re not in

need to start your day and, as you just

the mood for beef, swap the meat with

woke up, the nutrients you are in much

ground turkey.

Sodium, saturated fats and sugars in moderation or as little as possible; •

Unpasteurized dairy products;

•

Soft, semi-soft and surfaceripened cheese (brie, ricotta, feta, blue cheese and camembert);

•

servings of oily fish a week

need to function throughout the day.

Are you tired of preparing meals that You can never go wrong with a bacon

take hours upon hours to finish? The

and egg frittata—a warm and delicious

hearty chickpea and spinach stew is

way to start your day. You can even

your answer. This meal, loaded with

take it with you to work!

chickpeas, tomatoes and spinach, is low in sodium and rich in flavors.

Maybe you need something sweet?

Answer:

pumpkin

spice

parfait!

Are you still craving Italian food? Don’t

Besides being tasty, it’s low in fat and

shy away from creamy mushroom

cholesterol.

and spinach pasta. Simple to prepare, healthy and easy to eat! #4: Healthy Pregnancy Snacks

much you’ll want it when pregnant. So, can’t

forget

about

(trout, mackerel, and herring); •

Raw or partially cooked eggs;

•

Shark and swordfish;

•

Refrigerated and uncooked seafood;

•

Refrigerated pates and meat spreads;

•

Excessive amount of caffeine;

•

Herbal tea;

•

Alcohol.

A Parting Reminder

You don’t even have to be pregnant to crave Mexican food, so imagine how

Avoid eating more than two

prepare a delicious egg wrap for your

We

snacking

next breakfast. It has everything you

during pregnancy. A sweet and savory

need for a much-needed boost: eggs,

hummus plate can keep your cravings

baby spinach, cheese and salsa!

settled for a long while—fresh veggies, delicious fruit and some crackers on

#2: Healthy Pregnancy Lunch

the side.

As we were just talking about Mexican

Preparing plates for snacking is always

food, you don’t have to enjoy it just

a wise choice, as they will keep you

Remember that you first have to visit a doctor that will tell you what you can and can not eat during your pregnancy since diets for pregnant women differ from person to person. Make your diet something you’ll enjoy as you experience the incredible time of pregnancy.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 15

What Amino Acids Are Essential?

Written by Drew B.

Y

ou are what you eat which is why both healthy and junk foods will leave a clear mark on your body. Your body

Dealing with an Amino Acid Deficiency

is like a machine that needs all kinds of nutrients to

Amino acid deficiencies can lead to adverse health effects,

function correctly, and the food you eat will heavily influence

including weakened immunity, poor wound healing, decreased

the type and quality of these nutrients. Some of these essential

energy levels and impaired brain function. Make sure that you are

nutrients are amino acids, whose roles inside the human body

getting enough essential amino acids in your diet by consuming

differ based on their importance.

What is an Amino Acid?

Amino acids are the essential building blocks of proteins for

acids from plant-based proteins such as quinoa, soy and hemp.

amino acids: essential and non-essential. Essential amino acids

What Amino Acids are Essential for the Body?

are those that the human body cannot produce independently,

Twenty amino acids are essential to human health, and of those,

so we must get them from our diet. On the other hand, the

nine are considered essential. Essential amino acids cannot be

human body can produce non-essential amino acids, although

synthesized by the body and must be obtained from the diet.

many vital biological processes. There are two main groups of

diet supplementation becomes necessary for non-essential amino acids as well.

Amino acids are essential for a variety of bodily functions, including:

16

a variety of protein-rich foods such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, nuts and seeds. You can also get all of the essential amino

•

Acting as building blocks for proteins

•

Assisting the creation process of enzymes

•

Regulating metabolism

•

Supporting the immune system

•

Facilitating detoxification

•

Aiding in cell repair and growth

The nine amino acids types that the

body cannot synthesize on its own and must be obtained through diet are: Histidine: This amino acid is vital for tissue growth and repair. It is also needed to produce hemoglobin (i.e., the molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body).

that may compromise health and even

Better exercise performance: Amino

increase the risk of certain diseases.

acids improve energy levels, endurance

Therefore, it is vital to make sure you

and muscle recovery time after exercise.

ingest adequate amounts of all 20 amino acids, especially the essential ones. To ensure proper amino acid intake, you can follow a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains,

Isoleucine: This amino acid assists

lean proteins and other nutrient-dense

Healthier skin and hair: Amino acids support collagen production, an essential protein for healthy skin and hair.

Reduced stress levels: Some amino

the synthesis of proteins, enzymes and

foods. Additionally, there are a variety

acids help reduce anxiety and promote

hemoglobin.

of available supplements that can assist

relaxation.

Leucine: Leucine plays a vital role in

your amino acid intake.

Better sleep: Amino acids improve

building muscle tissue, regulating blood

sleep quality and decrease the amount

sugar levels and increasing energy.

of time it takes to fall asleep.

Lysine: Lysine helps the body build muscle mass and absorb calcium. It also helps fight off viruses that cause cold sores.

into S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), a compound that promotes mental health and has anti-inflammatory properties.

including: Improved digestion and gut health: Amino acids help break down food and absorb nutrients more effectively. They also support the growth of healthy

Phenylalanine:

Phenylalanine

is

an essential amino acid that can boost mood and help with dopamine the

brain

chemical

associated with positive feelings.

Threonine:

Research has shown that amino acids can provide a range of health benefits,

Methionine: Methionine is converted

production,

What are the Health Benefits of Taking Amino Acid Supplements?

Threonine

supports

immune function and helps maintain heart muscle health.

bacteria in the gut, thus supporting overall digestive health.

Amino acid supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, powders and liquids. They can be found at most health food stores and online retailers.

When

selecting

an

amino

acid

supplement, go with a high-quality, contaminant-free product. It is also important to take the supplements as directed on the label. Amino acid supplements are generally safe for healthy adults, but they can cause side

Stronger immune system: Amino

effects in some people.

acids play a role in maintaining a strong immune system. They help produce antibodies that fight off infection and disease.

Reduced

A Parting Reminder You don’t need to focus on eating a

inflammation:

Some

particular food throughout the day to

Tryptophan: Tryptophan is essential

amino acids have anti-inflammatory

get the required essential amino acids

for building proteins and supporting

properties that reduce swelling and

that your body needs. Instead, the best

the nervous system. It is also necessary

pain associated with arthritis and

way to get all the essential amino acids

to synthesize niacin (vitamin B3), which

asthma.

plays an essential role in metabolism and has antioxidant properties.

Better heart health: Amino acids help lower risk factors for heart diseases,

Valine: Valine helps our muscles

such as blood pressure and cholesterol

recover after exercise by increasing

levels.

energy levels, reducing fatigue and building lean muscle mass.

is to balance your food. With attention to diet and supplement intake, you can support optimal health and wellbeing by ensuring your body has all the amino acids it needs to function properly!

Improved brain function: Amino acids protect and repair brain cells,

Failing to obtain these amino acids

and they have been shown to improve

through food can lead to deficiencies

memory and cognitive function.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 17

“

Why Do We

Understanding the Causes Of Hiccups Can Help Prevent Their Occurrence and Better Protect Your Health

HICCUP? WRITTEN BY CATHERINE PANNELL

Hiccups are an inescapable reality for every one of us, with no

hiccups can help prevent their occurrence and better protect your

exceptions. For most people, they are a source of mild annoyance.

health.

For others, however, hiccups are disruptive, and for a few of us, they are downright dangerous. They typically go away quickly, but hiccups can sometimes persist for days or weeks, hampering our daily lives.

18

What Are the Main Hiccup Causes?

One thing scientists do know about hiccups is that their origin is

Hiccups happen when the diaphragm contracts involuntarily and

not onefold. Many different factors can trigger hiccups, with some

the vocal cords close, causing a sound to be produced. But why do

of the common causes including:

we hiccup in the first place? The ultimate purpose of hiccuping

•

Drinking too much of a carbonated or alcoholic beverage;

is, oddly enough, unknown. Despite being able to observe many

•

Overeating or eating too quickly;

hiccup causes, researchers do not know for sure how hiccups

•

Swallowing air;

benefit the human body. However, understanding the causes of

•

Sudden changes in temperature.

The common factor in many hiccup causes relates to the diaphragm. When the diaphragm is irritated, the body responds with hiccups.

Hiccup causes in adults overlap significantly with hiccup causes in children. However, the only causes that are exclusive to adults relate to activities children cannot and should not indulge in, such as smoking or drinking.

Very young children may hiccup more frequently than adults.

Infants can be particularly prone to overeating and frequently experience reflux, both of which can trigger bouts of hiccups.

Thus, it can seem alarming when an adult hiccups frequently or for an extended period of time.

Why Do I Hiccup So Much While Pregnant?

If you often hiccup while pregnant, rest assured that there is a reason for your symptoms. Throughout pregnancy, hiccups can be caused by other typical symptoms, such as nausea, shortness of breath or stress.

Hiccuping is not dangerous to developing babies, but it can become problematic if it prevents mothers from eating or sleeping. You should take steps to protect your health if you hiccup so much that you cannot sleep or eat while pregnant. In many cases, diet modifications can reduce nausea, helping you hiccup less often.

Why Do I Hiccup Randomly?

Pregnancy also puts patients at greater risk for chronic hiccups

Hiccups are not genuinely random. While hiccup causes might

medical attention if you hiccup for more than 48 hours while

because it can trigger intense and lasting nausea. You should seek

not be immediately evident, they do exist. If you appear to

pregnant, especially if your hiccups disrupt your ability to sleep

hiccup randomly, the underlying cause might be a little harder to

or eat.

pinpoint, such as: •

Psychological factors (e.g., stress and anxiety);

•

Sudden irritation of the diaphragm or the nerves that communicate with it;

•

Other disorders that can affect the central nervous system.

Why Do I Hiccup After Drinking Soda?

There’s no secret anymore that gulping down a soda can send people into an endless bout of hiccups. But why? The explanation

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 19

is straightforward. When you drink soda, you ingest CO2 (i.e., carbon dioxide), and researchers believe that the extra gas irritates your diaphragm when it stretches your stomach, causing you to hiccup.

It is normal to hiccup after drinking soda, so those who do should not be concerned. Drinking soda can also lead to prolonged and intense hiccuping without indicating any underlying medical conditions. However, if you experience hiccups that last for over 48 hours, you should ensure that your hiccups aren’t a symptom of other, more severe issues.

Why Do I Hiccup Every Day? If you hiccup on a daily basis, you might be wondering: is it normal? The answer is that it depends on the duration of your hiccups. If you hiccup a few times every day, particularly after consuming carbonated beverages or eating heavily, it is unlikely that your hiccups are symptoms of a serious medical condition.

However, hiccuping every day without pauses or for more than 48 hours is abnormal. You should seek medical attention if you hiccup so often that you are having trouble eating or sleeping.

Likewise, hiccups lasting more than two days can indicate an underlying medical condition that may require treatment.

When Are Hiccups Dangerous?

Hiccups become dangerous when they persist for too long and disrupt patients’ lives. Sometimes, bouts of hiccups can last for more than 48 hours or even months, which are referred to as chronic, and one lasting for over two days but less than a month is categorized as persistent. In such cases, they can interfere with routine activities like sleeping, eating or even breathing, resulting in excessive weight loss and exhaustion.

Excessive Hiccup Causes Excessive hiccup causes include:

20

•

Common triggers (e.g., overeating);

•

Drinking too much of an alcoholic or carbonated beverage;

•

Swallowing air.

“

Hiccups can interfere with routine activities like sleeping, eating or even breathing, resulting in excessive weight loss and exhaustion.

However, chronic hiccups can also signify a serious underlying medical condition: The vagus or phrenic nerves carry information between the brain and the diaphragm. As a result, irritation or damage to them can trigger hiccups.

Your acid reflux might also be indirectly causing hiccups if it is severe enough to irritate your diaphragm. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be a trigger for chronic hiccups. On the other hand, your hiccups might be causing acid reflux in the first place, so you should be sure to seek treatment for any underlying conditions responsible for both hiccups and reflux.

Excessive hiccups could also be caused by central nervous system disorders. Since hiccups are involuntary reflexes, they can be triggered by damage to the systems that normally regulate them.

A stroke or a traumatic brain injury might cause damage that could lead to excessive hiccups. Conditions like meningitis can also cause lasting brain damage, leading to extended bouts of hiccups.

In some cases, metabolic disorders, such as diabetes and kidney diseases, can lead to hiccups.

Finally, medications can trigger hiccups. Steroids, barbiturates, tranquilizers and anesthesia are known to cause hiccups.

A Parting Reminder In most cases, hiccups are harmless and even amusing. But when they last for more than 48 hours, they become a symptom of something more severe. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical attention if your hiccups last longer than two days and cannot be attributed to a more common cause.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 21

COGNITIVE

behavioral THERAPY WR I T T E N BY PE T E R C.

W

ondering if therapy could help with

Cognitive therapy focuses on helping people

your mental health or addiction

identify and challenge their negative thoughts.

problems but don’t know where to

Over time, CBT has evolved to focus on changing

start? Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be

both thoughts and behaviors.

a good option to explore. CBT is a type of therapy used to treat various mental health disorders, in-

Today, CBT is one of the most widely used forms

cluding trauma, anxiety, depression and addiction.

of talking therapy, and research has shown it to be effective for treating a range of mental health

The insight of the CBT pioneers was that our thoughts, feelings and behaviors are all

conditions.

keeping us from living our best lives.

HOW IS COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY USED?

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a short-term therapy

If you’ve never been to therapy before, you

that usually lasts for 12-20 weeks. During CBT, you

might be wondering what to expect from your

will work with a therapist to identify your negative

first CBT session.

interconnected. CBT teaches us how to recognize and change negative thinking and behavior patterns

thinking and behavior patterns. You will also learn new skills and techniques to help you change these

Your therapist will want to get to know you and

patterns.

your history. They will ask questions about any

WHO STARTED COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY?

past trauma or difficult experiences, as well as any mental health issues you may be dealing with.

CBT was developed in the 1960s by American psychiatrist Aaron T. Beck, who noticed that his

They will also want to know about your

patients suffering from depression habitually had

addictions or unhealthy coping mechanisms.

negative thoughts. So, he adapted cognitive therapy,

This information will help create a treatment

developed initially to treat psychosis, toward

plan tailored specifically for you.

helping people with depression.

22

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 23

TECHNIQUES FOR COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY Once your therapist has an idea regarding the problem you are dealing with, they will help you identify the negative thoughts and beliefs at the root of your behavioral problems. Once identified, the therapist works with the patient to challenge and change them through various techniques, such as: Discussing evidence that disproves the negative belief; Role-playing new responses to old situations; Gradually exposing the patient to feared situations.

HOW DOES CBT APPROACH THOUGHTS? Cognitive behavioral therapy categorizes the patient’s thoughts into automatic, core beliefs, and hot thoughts.

Automatic Thoughts Automatic thoughts are the initial reaction we have to a situation. They are often negative and based on previous experiences or assumptions that we may not even be aware of.

Core Beliefs Core beliefs are the fundamental and deeply held assumptions about ourselves, others and the world around us. These beliefs can be positive or negative, but they tend to be more resistant to change than automatic thoughts.

Hot Thoughts Hot thoughts are the intense emotions we feel in response to a situation or trigger. They can make it difficult to think clearly or rationally, and may lead us to act in ways we may later regret.

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The insight of the CBT pioneers was that our thoughts, feelings and behaviors are all interconnected.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 25

26

COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY BENEFITS

If you are considering CBT for yourself or a loved

After the negative thoughts and beliefs have been

during sessions.

addressed, the therapist will help the patient learn and practice new, more positive coping skills to: Manage difficult emotions; Deal with stressful situations; Make healthy choices.

The therapist will then create a plan and help support as the patient implements these new skills in their day-to-day life.

Reshaping thoughts and behaviors to be more positive can be a slow and challenging process, though very effective in treating mental health conditions like trauma, addiction, anxiety and depression. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health problem, consider seeking a therapist specializing in CBT.

one, ask your therapist about their confidentiality policy to ensure that you feel comfortable and safe

GET STARTED WITH CBT Once you have decided to learn more about CBT or find a therapist who specializes in it, there are a few things you can do to get started: Read up on CBT: A good place to start is the National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists website, which has information on CBT and how it can help with different issues.

Find a CBT therapist near you: You can search for CBT therapists in your area on the American Psychological Association’s website.

Talk to your doctor about whether CBT is suitable for you: If you’re struggling with a mental

HOW LONG DOES CBT LAST?

health issue, your doctor may be able to recommend

Cognitive behavioral therapy usually lasts for 6-24

treatment program that offers this type of therapy.

a therapist who specializes in CBT or refer you to a

sessions but can be shorter or longer depending on the needs of the individual. Therapists typically

CBT can be an effective treatment for various

provide CBT in weekly 50-60 minute sessions,

issues: If you think it might be helpful, don’t

though the length and frequency of sessions may

hesitate to try it. CBT might be the first step on your

vary depending on the problem being addressed.

journey to a happier, healthier life.

IS CBT CONFIDENTIAL? Confidentiality is one of the most critical aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy; it is the only way to ensure that patients feel safe and comfortable enough to open up about their thoughts and feelings.

Therapists will not share any information disclosed during CBT sessions with anyone outside the therapist-patient relationship.

While there are some exceptions to confidentiality (such as if the patient is suicidal or homicidal), anything said during CBT sessions will remain confidential. This approach helps create a safe space for patients to explore their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment or disclosure.

"Confidentiality is one of the most critical aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy; it is the only way to ensure that patients feel safe and comfortable enough to open up about their thoughts and feelings. "

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 27

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SWEATING? WRITTEN BY PETER C.

W H AT A R E T H E B E N E F I T S O F

While most people think of it as an annoyance, sweating actually has many health benefits. Your body is covered in sweat glands. When your internal temperature rises, whether from exercise or exposure to heat, your brain signals these glands to release sweat onto the surface of your skin. As the sweat evaporates, it helps cool your body down. Sweating can also help boost your mood and improve your overall well-being!

Why Do We Sweat?

Sweating occurs when the body tries to regulate its temperature. When we work out, our muscles produce heat, and our body temperature rises. Sweating helps cool us down by pulling the heat away from our skin and releasing it into the air.

We have two types of sweat glands — eccrine and apocrine. Eccrine glands are located all over our body and help regulate our body temperature by producing clear, odorless sweat.

While both types of sweat glands regulate body temperature, only eccrine glands are activated by heat. So, when you sweat in a sauna, it is primarily water and electrolytes that are released.

Apocrine glands are located in areas with a lot of hair, such as our armpits and groin. These glands produce a thicker, more malodorous sweat when we are under stress or experiencing strong emotions.

What Is Sweat Made Out Of ?

Sweat comprises mainly water, along with small amounts of electrolytes such as sodium, chloride and potassium. Sweat also contains small amounts of toxins and bacteria the body wants to eliminate. When you sweat, these toxins and bacteria are released from your body, helping to cleanse and detoxify your system.

Can Sweating in a Sauna Be Beneficial to My Health?

Sweating in saunas can be beneficial to your health. Mild heat has been shown to produce a hormetic effect on the body, similar to a workout. The difference is that saunas don’t make you feel like you just ran a marathon.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 29

Saunas can also help: •

Regulate hormone levels.

•

Promote healthy skin and hair.

•

Relieve congestion and sinus pressure.

•

Improve circulation.

•

Burn calories and promote weight loss.

So, if you’re looking for a way to improve your health and well-being, consider sweating it out in a sauna. You might be surprised at the results!

Sweating also helps flush toxins out of our system. When we’re sick, our bodies produce more toxins as they work to fight the infection. Sweating assists in releasing those toxins and can help us feel better overall.

Benefits of Sweating for Your Skin Sweating plays an essential role in maintaining healthy skin. When we sweat, our pores open up, allowing dirt, toxins and impurities to be released from our bodies.

Sweating also helps to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells, which can further reduce the risk of acne. So, if you’re looking for a natural way to help clear up your skin, don’t forget the power of sweat.

The liver and kidneys remove most toxins in our bodies.

However, certain toxins such as bisphenol A (BPA) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are released by our sweat.

A recent study concluded that when people exercised and sweated, they excreted more BPA than when they didn’t exercise. This discovery suggests that sweating may help remove BPA and other toxins from the body.

Another study found that sweating can help eliminate polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from the body. PCBs are a type of pollutant that has been linked to numerous medical disorders. The study found that those induced to sweat could hasten the elimination of some, but not all, PCBs.

Why Do We Sweat So Much When We Are Sick?

There are a few reasons we sweat more when we’re sick. For one, our bodies work harder to fight off the infection, raising our internal temperature. That increase in temperature signals our sweat glands to start producing more sweat to cool the body down.

Sweating also helps flush toxins out of our system. When we’re sick, our bodies produce more toxins as they work to fight the infection. Sweating assists in releasing those toxins and can help us feel better overall.

30

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweating Will Sweating Help You Lose Weight?

in their bodies than those who did not sweat regularly. If you are concerned about your exposure to heavy metals, consider sweating more often to help detox your body.

When you work out, you sweat. And when you stop working out, the sweating stops. That’s because when you sweat, you’re losing water weight. So, yes, sweating can help you drop those pesky extra pounds, but if you want to lose weight long-term, you must focus on more than just water weight.

Why Do We Sweat So Much When We Sleep?

Replenish Your Body With Water After Every Sweat Session We need to replenish the water and electrolytes lost through sweating — otherwise, we risk dehydration. For light to moderate sweating, simply drinking water will suffice.

Sweating is a natural and necessary process for the body, but

However, after a more intense workout, you’ll need to replace

it can be especially bothersome when trying to sleep. You can

both fluids and electrolytes.

do a few things to help control sweating at night. Try sleeping with a fan on, using a cooling pillow or sleeping in loose-fitting, breathable fabrics to help keep your skin dry. Whatever method you choose, the important thing is to find what keeps you cool and comfortable at night.

Can I Eliminate Heavy Metals From the Body Through Sweating?

The best way to replenish your body with fluids and electrolytes is by drinking a sports drink like Gatorade or Powerade. These drinks contain carbohydrates and electrolytes that help to replenish the body’s energy stores and keep you hydrated.

If you don’t have a sports drink handy, you can also make your own electrolyte-rich beverage by adding a pinch of salt

According to a study conducted in China, sweating may be an

and a squeeze of lemon juice to a glass of water. Another

effective way to detox from heavy metals. The study found that

alternative is coconut water, a great option for replenishing

people who sweat regularly had lower levels of heavy metals

lost fluids and electrolytes.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 31

Breaking a Sweat Is Valuable for a Healthy Body Sweating has many health benefits. It helps regulate body temperature, rid the body of toxins and boost the immune system. In addition, sweating helps clean our skin and has anti-inflammatory properties. Hit the gym or enjoy regular sauna sessions to get the most out of sweating.

32

Suffer from acute or chronic wounds?

Healing shouldn’t be painful.

Experience pain-free treatment through a saline mist that reduces and removes bacteria while promoting healing.

UltraMIST is a non-contact, low-frequency ultrasound that painlessly promotes healing when administered by any trained health care professional.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 33

The Innovation of TopDoc Clinics and Established Community Practices An Interview With Tammy Tran WRITTEN BY GAYE NEWTON

34

“I like the thought of doing something I haven’t done before,” Nurse Practitioner Tammy Tran said. “The community health setting is where I feel comfortable and have experience but I’m excited to venture into something new and expand my scope of practice at Top DOC Clinics. The Anti-aging and Regenerative arena of medicine is an area I have interest in gaining more experience in.”

T

ran is a Nurse Practitioner in the Los Angeles area. Her love of nursing developed from helping her ailing father while he battled the complications of diabetes. She would visit him in the

nursing home while she was in college and take part in his care. After caring for her father who ultimately passed away from complications of diabetes and stroke, she determined that she wanted to make a difference in the lives of those suffering from ailments as her father. She felt she could make an impact in the lives of others and help them prevent deterioration of their health through adequate treatment of their disease process, preventive care and education.

“I’ve been in nursing for the last 20 years, and I’ve worked in quite a few arenas of the profession,” she shared. “After getting my registered nursing license, I worked in a postsurgical unit. It was exciting and fast-paced and a great way for me to get hands-on experience as a new nurse. But I wanted more experience, so I entered the hospital setting and I worked on the telemetry floor which helped me to gain more acute care experience.”

Tran ultimately wanted to be in an outpatient setting, so she earned her master’s degree and started working in the CVS clinics as a nurse practitioner.

“Retail health in California was new at the time and we were one of the first ones to be hired. It took some effort to get patients in the store to begin using some of the services we offered. Ultimately, the convenience of retail health took off and patients began lining up for some of their basic healthcare needs,” she said. “The pandemic has likely helped the retail setting since services like COVID testing, Flu testing and vaccinations are a big part of what they offer. It’s a nice place for patients to access services quickly.”

This became the start of Tran’s career as a Nurse Practitioner.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 35

WHAT IS A NURSE PRACTITIONER? Compared to Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners are nurses with additional training and expanded responsibilities. They manage patient health, treat illnesses and injuries, conduct research and mentor other nurses. They can provide both primary care and specialized services, including diagnoses, treatment, prescriptions and patient education.

Many patients choose Nurse Practitioners for primary care, as they often fill the gap between medical needs and the availability of physicians in some areas. This approach also lowers medical bills.

FROM RETAIL TO COMMUNITY HEALTH As a person who thrives on learning new things, retail health started feeling limited to Tran.

“They had guidelines for us to follow that were very specific about what we could do and what types of conditions we could see. Of course, they’ve expanded those services since then, but back in those days, it was what it was,” she shared.

At that point, she applied to her current job as a Nurse Practitioner in community health.

“Top Doc’s management has a vision for what they want to accomplish.

I’m on board with learning any services we may add but maintain that I will likely stay the course as primary care provider for the adult population at Top Doc Clinics in Redondo Beach.”

36

“I see primarily adult patients managing chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension and other conditions in primary care. Community health caters to a low-income, disadvantaged population,” she said.

As a result, Tran has gained a good amount of experience with patients working with patients who lack access to healthcare.

“Most patients were enrolled in My Health LA for our clinic. They receive some services and medications without charge. That’s how community health works,” she explained.

However, that may be changing as sliding scale pay based on income is now being considered. In addition, disadvantaged patients 50 years of age and older are moving into Medi-Cal-based programs to give them more access to care.

“Earlier this year, we started transitioning some of our patients from My Health LA to Medi-Cal,” she shared. “We want to ensure we can retain these patients so that they can access primary care and specialists. Some health insurance companies have to bid for these Medi-Cal contracts in California. We’ll see how it plays out, especially for disadvantaged communities.”

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 37

38

JOINING TOP DOC CLINICS Tran is now bringing her Nurse Practitioner curiosity and expertise to Top Doc Clinics, a diverse collection of medical practices helmed by innovative leaders representing a variety of specialties — urgent and family care, regenerative and cosmetic medicine and more. Top Doc Clinics strives to detoxify the body and expedite recovery.

“Top Doc’s management has a vision for what they want to accomplish. I’m on board with learning any services we may add but maintain that I will likely stay the course as primary care provider for the adult population at Top Doc Clinics in Redondo Beach,” she said.

Tran is excited to see new services becoming available to her community.

“It’s nice that it’s nearby. Being in the community makes it easier to interface with patients and form connections with them as well,” she explained.

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS Tran talked about an exciting aspect of her career.

She has been a nurse for 20 years. In her earlier years, she always worked with the physicians and had standardized protocols to follow that were drafted with the physician.

Although standardized protocols will likely remain in some settings, nurses will have more autonomy in California with recent legislative changes.

“Not everybody has shared the opinion that nurse practitioners should be autonomous but the coalition of nurses and nurse practitioners in California is very strong and broad,” she concluded.

In either case, Nurse Practitioners like Tammy Tran have much to look forward to. And working with Top Doc Clinics, she will have much more to offer the patients in her community.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 39

HOW TO BUILD YOUR

Mental Fitness WRITTEN BY ZENITH LUNDELL

40

M

ost people have come across Sudoku, a crossword or, more

recently, the famed Wordle — the puzzle that captivated the world during the pandemic years and is still widely played. But these head-scratchers are not

only for enjoyment and competing with one’s friends. They serve a much greater purpose than people often consider: they strengthen and speed up the brain.

Keeping physically active and fit brings a host of health benefits, but there are other forms of fitness one should focus on. Exercising the brain is the best way to harness more mental capacity and prevent disease.

Neuroplasticity is essential as it allows the brain to modify its behavior in response to a stimulus.

Both these interpretations are valuable and promote holistic wellness. Mental fitness is essential for overall health and can be improved through regular exercise, proper nutrition, memory games and learning new skills.

What Are the Benefits of Mental Fitness?

Being mentally fit can help you manage stress

better,

stay

focused

and

be

productive. In addition to assisting people in staying sharp and managing

What Does Mental Fitness Mean?

Mental fitness is the ability to maintain a healthy mind while handling daily life’s challenges. It is an umbrella term that involves having a positive outlook on life, managing emotions, thinking logically and making sound choices. A mentally

daily tasks, being mentally fit can also help prevent age-related cognitive decline and the development of conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. By engaging in activities that challenge the mind and maintaining healthy habits, you can support your brain’s neuroplasticity and maintain good mental fitness over time.

fit person can adapt to change, learn new

Mental

skills and build and maintain healthy

includes:

relationships.

Thinking clearly;

Others perceive mental fitness as the brain’s ability to adapt to new experiences and information through neuroplasticity.

fitness,

or

cognitive

fitness,

Retaining new information and making accurate decisions; Staying sharp and alert.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 41

The awareness surrounding brain training

•

Engaging in activities that challenge

is increasing. The FDA has approved

and stimulate the brain, such as

brain

puzzles and brainteasers, can help

training

games

for

children

with ADHD, and the NHI is funding a

to improve cognitive function and

30,000-participant

maintain mental fitness.

memory

training

study. Reading, exercise and mindfulness have been shown to stave off mental

•

prevent mental health issues and

deterioration. The potential benefits

maintain good cognitive function.

include: •

•

Fluid intelligence (i.e., the mind’s

Effectively managing stress can help

•

Maintaining

ability to innovate and solve new

connections

strong and

social

relationships

problems);

may prevent feelings of loneliness,

Increased brain vitality (i.e., the

isolation and poor self-worth, which

retention and creation of brain cells

can negatively affect mental health.

and pathways); •

Increased attention span and taskswitching ability.

It is possible to build mental toughness in

How To Build Your Mental Muscle

a variety of ways, in turn benefiting one’s

Knowing where to start when considering

overall health and cognitive ability long-

how to develop your mental muscle can

term.

take time and effort. There are some engaging brain exercises that you can try to improve your mental fitness and

How To Improve Your Mental Fitness

keep your mind sharp for years to come.

Puzzles, meditation and memory games

There are many different ways to improve mental fitness: •

will indeed challenge and stimulate your brain.

•

Physical exercise can help improve blood flow to the brain, supporting

(social media captions don’t count); •

Practice gratitude and positive self-

•

Begin a meditation and mindfulness

cognitive function.

•

nutrients

function correctly.

42

talk;

A healthy diet can provide the brain’s essential

Read diverse forms of literature

in

order

to

practice; Eat wholesome, healthy meals.

Knowing where to start when considering how to develop your mental muscle can take time and effort.

Exercises for Mental Fitness

One of the amazing things about activities

Think of these exercises as different

usually inexpensive and convenient. You

workouts in the gym, each aimed at

can incorporate them into your daily

strengthening a different part of the

routine without breaking the bank or

that challenge the mind is that they are

brain. Puzzles and mind games benefit

blocking off a lot of time! Even just 10-

the brain because they improve cognitive

15 daily minutes of one or two mental

function and promote neuroplasticity. By

fitness tasks can significantly affect your

providing your brain with challenging

cognitive function.

and stimulating activities, you can help improve your memory, problem-solving skills and overall cognitive abilities.

This diverse set of puzzles and memory

Why Mental Fitness Is Important

games will have a lasting impact on the

Engaging in activities that challenge

neuroplasticity of your brain:

the mind will ensure that the brain

Chess;

stays

Crossword puzzles;

fitness

active.

Incorporating

exercises

and

mental

maintaining

Memory match cards;

healthy habits can further support your

Paint by numbers;

brain’s neuroplasticity, which becomes

Puzzles;

increasingly important as you age.

Regular exercise such as cardio or weight training; Sudoku; Wordle.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 43

HOW

chinese medicine M AY B E T H E S O LU T I ON T O YO U R

chronic issues

AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. LAURA CAPINA WRITTEN BY RILEY GEORGE

AN UNEXPECTED BEGINNING Growing up in Lavia, Dr. Laura Capina did not see the magnitude of allergies, asthma, or obesity that she saw when she came to the U.S. at the age of 20. Instead, she had grown up in a world where natural remedies and medicinal herbs were used to treat illness.

“I grew up with that mindset that if you don’t feel good, you don’t sleep well, or you have an upset tummy, you don’t take medication. So instead, you go to your garden for a natural remedy that works,” she said.

So when Dr. Capina came to the U.S., she began to wonder why people were so sick. That became her first wake-up call. Then, she took a trip to India, where her eyes were really opened. She noticed how poor people were, but even under their circumstances, they were happy. When contrasted with American culture, where many were depressed, she began to wonder how people could be in such poor circumstances and still smile. This prompted her path.

Dr. Laura Capina began studying Buddhism and Hinduism, yoga, and natural medicine, eventually leading her to Chinese medicine. She went to a Chinese Medicine school in California to earn her Master’s and then her Ph.D. in Chinese Medicine after seeing how it healed people. After graduating with her master’s, she went to China for a while to see how hospitals were run and studied under some doctors using Chinese Medicine to practice.

Her dissertation for her Ph.D. focused on stress, where she compared Western and Eastern medicine treatments. Then she compared these things to being the best and healthiest version of oneself in optimal health. Her dissertation won the Best Dissertation Award of the year.

44

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 45

WHAT DR. CAPINA DOES NOW Dr. Laura Capina conducts her Chinese Medicine techniques on patients for different ailments. She focuses on acupuncture cupping and electro acupuncture stimulation to heal people in pain.

“Acupuncture is very effective for any kind of pain like inflammation, circulation, numbness, headaches, and migraines. Acupuncture is so effective that I tell people if you suffer from migraines, you know, there is no reason to suffer because acupuncture can heal it,” she said.

blockages could occur because of the scar and suggested some mud treatments. A week after the treatments, the patient returned to Dr. Capina and said she had gained her sex drive back, which had been diminished, and her digestion began improving.

In addition, she had felt things open up after her treatments.

After two weeks of treatment, her digestion was 80% better.

Another patient was a 19-year-old boy brought to Dr. Capina for extreme anxiety. The boy had been picture-perfect all his life, and one day, he woke up with extreme anxiety. He no longer wanted to leave the house or his mother’s side or be with his friends.

Dr. Capina also utilizes a muscle test from applied

He had also been experiencing higher body temperatures than

kinesiology called Quantum Reflex Analysis. This test

normal, so he was taking cold showers constantly.

was invented by a Japanese doctor and was tested later at UCLA and is very accurate. It essentially tests every organ and gland in the body to see what the body is missing. Quantum Reflex Analysis gives Dr. Capina a better idea of where the problem is coming from and

“In Chinese medicine, fear and anxiety belong to the kidneys.

Kidneys are foundational organs. I was like, what’s wrong with his kidneys? So, by performing the QRA test, I identified he had a kidney infection,” Dr. Capina said.

how to fix it with either a lacking substance, a detox, or

She prescribed a natural, organic fermented garlic remedy to

a lifestyle change.

help the infection. One week later, his anxiety was gone. He

“Acupuncture is incredible, but it’s thousands of years old, and the world is very different now. The world is so much more toxic, and we are so nutritionally deficient that when our glands and organs cannot optimally function, we need minerals and treatments to fix the issue,” Dr.

was living a normal life again. His mother had taken him to two different medical doctors who said he had depression and wanted to put him on antidepressants. It begs the question of why people in the U.S. do not try holistic approaches more often, in Dr. Capina’s opinion.

Capina said. The thing about Dr. Capina’s way of treating

“The pharmaceutical industry is making a lot of money. They’re

through Chinese Medicine is that her treatments have no

making billions and they patent these drugs, so they have to

side effects. Her way of treating is vastly different from

make this money back, and then they have shareholders and

the traditional Western medicine approach.

stockholders, and it’s all big business. So many drugs are just not

A lady came to Dr. Capina with extreme digestive issues.

necessary,” Dr. Capina said.

She had issues with everything she ate and could not

Dr. Capina agrees that Western medicine has its place, as

figure out what was wrong with her. She had gone to

antibiotics can save lives. Without a doubt, antibiotics are an

four different doctors saying she may have acid reflux or

amazing discovery that cannot be discredited, according to Dr.

issues with her liver. Dr. Capina asked her if she had a

Capina. However, she still believes that they are overprescribed,

c-section scar from giving birth.

which can clear your entire intestinal tract empty with one

While this may seem odd, Dr. Capina believes that blockages can be some of the most harmful issues patients face. These blockages involve energy passing through our bodies. So when Dr. Capina asked her patient if she had a scar from her c-section, the patient recalled

46

Dr. Capina explained to her how energy movements and

round. This can eliminate natural immunity since antibiotics kill good and bad bacteria alike. In addition, this can take years to rebuild. Western medicine is excellent for certain illnesses, but Dr. Capina argues that natural medicine is the better treatment for chronic illness.

that her digestive issues had begun shortly after she gave

“I just want to help my patients. It is my passion. It makes me so

birth to her son. Her patient had also done a tummy tuck

happy. When you find your passion, how can you not be happy?”

after the c-section causing another scar from hip to hip.

she asks.

HER OWN HOLISTIC SUPPLEMENTS Dr. Capina wants to take the healthiest and safest approaches to treatment she can. However, she says the treatment can take time because no magic pill can cure ailments. This passion for helping all to heal holistically has pushed Dr. Capina into creating her own supplement line that can help achieve this.

One of the most important nutrients for the human body to function optimally are Omega 3 fatty acids. It’s the healthiest and foundational fats that make up our brains, eyes, heart and all cell membranes. In today’s high demand environment, and because there are too many Omega 6 fats (which are pro-inflammatory), we need to drastically increase Omega 3 essential fats.

Even though there are a lot of fish oils on the market, most of them come in soft gels, which can have undesirable ingredients added, and the fats are not absorbable in a human body.

This is why Dr. Capina created a fully vegan (derived from algae), delicious, liquid, dessert like supplement that is liposomal micellized (which means fully capable of getting in our cells).

In addition to amazing life supporting EPA/DHA, she added to the formula the most powerful form of Vit.E delta tocotrienols, which is the only antioxidant that can protect our sensitive phospholipid bilayer cell membranes and may be the most powerful anti-aging and longevity substance in the world.

For more information, please visit her website: www.

Synerchii.com “It doesn’t matter how beautiful you are or how much money you have, if you don’t have good health and life force energy or Qi, you can’t enjoy life or achieve what you are here for on this amazing planet. I mean, the most important currency in this life is energy, don’t you agree? It is what drives you, what keeps you going.

Energy plus passion. I found mine in healing humans, that is with Chinese Medicine, and Synerchii, “ Dr. Laura Capina said.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 47

48

Seeing Medicine as More Than Just Physical Treatment An Interview with Dr. Ramy Mitwalli, M.D

BY RILEY GEORGE

D

r. Ramy Mitwalli, M.D., M.B.A.,

doctor multiple times. As he grew in his

M.Sc., M.S.P., found his passion

knowledge through his father’s medical

for medicine at a very young age.

history, Mitwalli found his calling for life in

At just 13 years old, Mitwalli experienced his father lying paralyzed in a hospital bed after

shoulder surgery. The doctors discovered that his father suffered from a metabolic condition that resulted in a 10-hour succinylcholine-induced paralysis after his shoulder surgery. At that moment, Mitwalli knew he was called to the medical field

the medical field.

Mitwalli had watched his father practice veterinary which

medicine

abruptly

his

ended

entire after

life,

several

hospitalizations. But that exposure to medicine would also prompt young Mitwalli to seek out the medical field.

because he wanted to help alleviate pain and

He attended the University of South Florida,

not feel as helpless as he did.

completing his undergraduate studies and

Throughout

his

father’s

treatments,

Mitwalli was drawn to his knowledge in the medical field. He could thoroughly explain his father’s conditions to the nurses and doctors who mistakenly asked if he was a

receiving a B.Sc. in Biomedical Sciences.

Then Mitwalli completed his first master’s degree

from

earning

an

M.Sc.

Georgetown in

Pharmacology

University,

(M.S.P.)

with

a

dual

concentration

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 49

“Regardless of the condition, every patient must be seen as a single, interconnected mind-body-spirit — that is, a patient.”

- Dr. Ramy Mitwalli, M.D

in

Neuropharmacology

&

Research

“There’s a science to business. If one can

Pharmacology. Then, he received his

complete the study of medicine, I believe

M.B.A. in Healthcare Management from

they can understand finance and basic

the Chapman Graduate School of Business

business operations,” he said.

at the Florida International University. He then completed a third master’s degree: M.Sc. in Entrepreneurship in Applied Technologies from the U.S.F. Center for Entrepreneurship at the U.S.F. Muma College of Business. Mitwalli graduated from medical school at Poznan University of Medical Sciences with his M.D. in May of 2022, with aspirations to be a physician

more than just physical well-being. Dr. Mitwalli feels that the focus in the medical field should be on the mind, body, and spirit, not just another pathology of a physical body.

Regardless of the condition, every patient must be seen as a single, interconnected mind-body-spirit — that is, a patient.

leader. Dr. Mitwalli envisions his future

“That’s one thing: whenever we say holistic

in academia, healthcare governance, and

care, we generally associate it with a mind-

private practice. In addition, he wishes to

body experience. So how can we so casually

use his vast knowledge and experience in

neglect one-third of our patients? Their

the medical field to advocate for patient

spirituality is one-third of their existence -

education & financial literacy for medical

arguably may hold the greatest potential of

professionals.

all,” Dr. Mitwalli emphasized.

“My

ultimate

goal

is

to

practice

As he recalls from his study of Pharmacology

interventional and vascular radiology

at Georgetown, Dr. Mitwalli mentioned

and subspecialize in neuroradiology and

that when a patient is given a placebo

interventional pain management,” he

effect, about 30% of the time, there

said.

will be a physiological or psychological

But being a medical professional is not a cheap process. There is a business side to medicine that Dr. Mitwalli felt was vital to fully understanding what it meant to be in the field.

50

The medical field encompasses so much

manifestation of what they believe to be what they had received when they got the placebo. As a result, their brain actually manifests a reaction that the original drug should have induced.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 51

52

“It’s fascinating. This phenomenon shows

advocates for patient health literacy and

you the power of the mind. Our brain is an

education. He emphasizes the critical role

organ, finite in its physicality. Meanwhile, a

it plays for patients to understand the

patient’s spirituality holds relatively infinite

entire nature of condition(s), procedure(s),

potential. So we should address ailments

and all associated costs. Only then can

of the spirit if we can. And this becomes

a patient truly make the most educated

particularly important as we approach the end

decision regarding treatment. Otherwise,

of life care or work to improve the quality of

we are sentencing our patients to a vicious

life for patients in hospice and palliative care.

debt collection and litigation cycle.

Suppose a patient feels the need to talk about their spirituality and wants to talk about it.

In that case, resources should be available to attend to specific spiritual needs,” Dr. Mitwalli said. Spiritual care requires the availability of Chaplains and access to Chaplaincy Services — since your average medical provider is neither adequately trained nor qualified to address patient spiritual needs. Spiritual care must involve Chaplains as integral members of a multi-disciplinary medical care team — to adequately address patients’ spiritual needs.

In

medical

licensing

Currently, Dr. Mitwalli is working on becoming a licensed physician in the U.S.A., European Union, and Egypt. In addition, he volunteers his time at local medical clinics and various nonprofit organizations. As an avid medical researcher, Dr. Mitwalli works on multiple research projects globally.

He has active research projects based in the U.S.A., Poland (where he graduated medical school), and Egypt (where his family migrated from in the early 1970s).

Dr. Mitwalli is not your average doctor who

examinations,

wants only to practice medicine; he aspires

examinees are allotted approximately 15

to be a change agent, an empathetic leader

minutes to take a complete patient history.

who leads by example.

We are primed to generate high patient volumes. This is the nature of a fee-forservice system. There has never been a more opportune time for policymakers and medical providers to discuss more qualifying value-based

healthcare.

How

can

15

minutes render a personalized experience?

Especially with providers being boggled by overzealous, rigid policies; and burnt out by ever-evolving superfluous administrative tasks. Dr. Mitwalli believes that balance is key. The medical industry must invest resources in both providers and patients alike. This will focus on personalizing care and being more personable with patients to

“There’s definitely a future for me in health policy,

healthcare

management,

and

education. I really want to push for patient advocacy because I feel that we are losing the essence of medicine by looking at numbers rather than the patient as a person.

And today, a patient is just ID 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.

So many organizations have corporatized medicine to the extent they don’t even see a patient as their name, a person, or a family member. And I would like it when a medical provider sees my family member as a person. So, patient advocacy is vital,” Dr. Mitwalli said.

ensure they receive the care they need. In addition to price transparency, Dr. Mitwalli

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 53

RICHARD MACDONALD The National Sculpture Society New York City awarded Richard MacDonald’s Duality, the 2022 Maurice B. Hexter Medal of Honor. Exemplifing the idea that the melding and balancing of opposites creates balance, harmony, and insite into the pervasive principle of Yin & Yang. Masterful sculptors of every era and culture move into the complex field of multiple figure compositions to explore the full emotional range possible when figures interact. Multiple figure compositions create in implied narrative, a suggested relationship, and ultimately, for the viewer. Richard MacDonald has been exploring the complex visual, aesthetic and conceptual relationships of multiple figures throughout his career, and the newest work Duality highlights a theme that runs through the diverse collection. w brings into focus the idea that darkness is defined by light, strength is balanced by tenderness, and that in the balance of opposing forces there is a center of tranquility and peace. It is the age-old concept of Yin and Yang echoed in a new form, and through this lens earlier works can be seen to exhibit the same dynamic balance.

NATIONAL SCULPTURE SOCEITY MAURICE B. HEXTER PRIZE WINNER

THE ART OF RICHARD MACDONALD GALLERY | BELLAGIO RESORT AND CASINO “O” THEATRE 3 6 0 0 S L A S V E G A S B L V D L A S V E G A S N V 8 9 1 0 9

T H E A R T O F R I C H A R D M A C D O N A L D . C O M

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THE PILL? Looking for a Natural Alternative to W R I T T E N BY Z AR AH L OU I SE

Let’s be honest, being on the pill is not the most can range from nausea to migraines and can often

How Does FAM Work To Prevent Pregnancies?

hold you back from going about your day as you

The Fertility Awareness Method entails monitoring

typically would. Birth control pills are not only

different fertility indicators (including basal body

pleasant experience out there. The pill’s side effects

used as contraceptives but can also address other

temperature and cervical mucus) to follow ovulation.

hormone-related problems that women deal with.

It is a natural alternative to the pill that’s been shown

While some women don’t experience any adverse side effects, the pill is not every girl’s best friend.

There may be a more natural alternative to the pill.

effective at preventing pregnancies.

By understanding how your menstrual cycle works and pairing this with FAM, you will become much more aware of the effects that your menstrual cycle

What Is the Fertility Awareness Method?

The Fertility Awareness Method (FAM), also known

has on your body and mind. Tracking your fertility biomarkers (basal body temperature and cervical mucus) will help you understand when you’re fertile and likely to conceive in your cycle.

as the calendar method, is a natural form of birth control. It is done by tracking your menstrual cycle show that FAM can be up to 99% effective when

What Are the Benefits of Using the Fertility Awareness Method?

done correctly. This method is most effective when

One of the benefits of FAM is that it is a natural, side-

used with another form of contraception, such as

effect-free form of birth control.

to predict when your fertile window is due. Studies

condoms, during your fertile days.

You will need to take your temperature first thing in

By tracking your menstrual cycle, you will be more

the morning daily and chart it on a graph. You will

in tune with your body and how it works. This

also need to keep track of changes in your cervical

empowering knowledge can help you make better

mucus throughout the month. Some apps can help

overall health decisions.

you with daily tracking, although you can use a physical chart.

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FAM can also help you get to know your body better.

Lastly, FAM is much cheaper than other forms of birth control. There is no need to buy expensive pills

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 57

58

or devices. All you need is a thermometer and a chart to

cycle, when you’re fertile and when you can have sex

track your temperature and cervical mucus changes.

without becoming pregnant.

Your egg must first be fertilized by a sperm cell to get

When Should You Use the Fertility Awareness Method?

FAM can be used both to avoid and achieve pregnancy.

Couples should abstain from sex when they are most likely to be fertile when using FAM to avoid pregnancy and when they are most likely to be fertile when trying to get pregnant.

pregnant. Your fertile days are the days during your menstrual cycle when sperm can fertilize an egg.

Every month, your ovaries release an egg into your fallopian tube, known as ovulation. There is about a 12hour period during which your egg stays in your fallopian tube. After sex, your sperm can stay in your uterus and fallopian tube for up to six days, depending on the type of sperm. During the fertilization process, whenever a sperm

FAM can be an effective and empowering way to take

cell combines with your egg in the fallopian tube, the

control of your reproductive health. It allows you to

egg travels to the uterus (i.e., womb) and attaches to the

become familiar with your body’s signs of ovulation so

uterine wall. If your egg doesn’t get fertilized, it dissolves,

you can better understand when you are most likely to

and you’ll eventually get your period.

get pregnant. This method is also non-invasive, meaning it doesn’t involve hormones or other methods to prevent pregnancy. Ultimately, this approach empowers you to make informed decisions about your body and reproductive health.

Menstrual Cycle Awareness and the Fertility Awareness Method The use of FAMs requires learning about the menstrual cycle for it to be of any benefit to you. To avoid getting pregnant, you have to know when you’re in an ovulatory

Because eggs live about a day after ovulation and sperm live about six days after sex, you’re fertile for about seven days during every menstrual cycle: the five days before and the day of ovulation.

A Parting Reminder The Fertility Awareness Method is a valuable tool for women to empower themselves by being familiar with their bodies! By understanding themselves more, women can now look into potentially using FAM as a natural alternative to traditional birth control methods.

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WHAT TO EAT DURING

Your Period.

WRITTEN BY ADREANA MENDEZ

P

erhaps the evening is winding down, you’ve finally settled on your couch to read a book and you’re

sipping some tea when suddenly you feel a sharp pain in your stomach. It dawns on you — it’s time for your period. Or, maybe you’re sitting at the office biting your

lip in pain as your legs and back ache. You scramble through your bag, searching frantically for relief and dreading your shift’s remaining hours.

Food for Menstrual Cramp Relief Several foods can offer relief to cramps and additional pain that comes from being on your period. These foods include fruits, leafy veggies, whole grains, legumes and nuts. The higher the number of antioxidants, the better.

Menstrual Cycle Food Cravings During premenstrual syndrome, progesterone is high,

However, you might be dealing with another issue. Maybe

which leads to unstable blood sugar levels that induce

you’re panicking because your period hasn’t come yet, or

cravings. As a result, energy levels go down, and the

you want it to come early. Perhaps the stress from school or

body craves sugar sweets and high-carbohydrate foods

life’s cares is affecting your body. Maybe you’re wondering

to increase the glucose in the body.

what the best ways to stimulate your period are so you can have more control over it.

Either way, food plays an important role in regulating your period and even offering relief. Too good to be true? Read on to see exactly how food can help or stimulate your period!

Food To Help the Menstrual Cycle It is vital to find appropriate foods for each part of the menstrual cycle. There are four phases of the menstrual cycle: •

Menstrual;

•

Follicular;

•

Luteal;

•

Premenstrual.

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Follicular Phase

period is characterized by PMS symptoms.

During the follicular phase, the eggs develop and mature. It starts on the first day of menstruation and ends with ovulation. As a result, it is

Therefore, it is essential to support detoxification pathways to make it easier to metabolize and get rid of used hormones from the follicular phase.

essential to eat nourishing foods, stay hydrated

Eat lots of fiber, antioxidants, protein and leafy

and incorporate mineral-rich salts into your diet.

vegetables. Foods such as cauliflower, squash,

The foods you should eat during the follicular phase are tailored to your fluctuating hormone levels, which rise as the egg matures. During this time, incorporate light and fresh foods such as salads and probiotics, which promote gut health and detoxification. In addition, try to eat avocado, broccoli, seeds, legumes, salmon and other supplements and herbs.

cucumbers, spinach and berries, as well as drinking caffeine and eating dark chocolate, are great for this phase of your period!

PMS The premenstrual syndrome occurs during the latter part of the luteal phase. The best foods to incorporate into your diet to decrease cramps and headaches are foods high in magnesium, such

Ovulation

as nuts, leafy veggies, chocolate, bananas and

Ovulation is the release of a mature egg from

vitamin C-rich foods.

the surface of the ovary. It usually occurs approximately two weeks before menstruation.

During this period, hormone levels rise, especially estrogen,

and

body

temperature

increases,

impacting energy levels. Too much estrogen can negatively impact menstruation, so eat nutrients that support the liver in removing that excess estrogen. Foods such as kale, broccoli, onions, garlic and radishes are great at decreasing this excess estrogen.

Menstrual Phase

What Foods Stimulate Periods?

Numerous factors can cause irregular periods, including

hormonal

imbalances,

changes

in weight and a sedentary lifestyle. These irregularities are annoying and can be anxietyinducing. Experts note that some of the best ways to deal with irregular periods are to lose weight, eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

Can certain foods bring on your period? Yes!

This part of the menstrual cycle is characterized

Foods can play a substantial part in stimulating

by bleeding. Hormone levels are at their lowest at

periods. Some of the best foods for regulating

the start of the cycle. Add nutrients, drink lots of

menstrual cycles include:

water and focus on your comfort. Eating a good mix of root vegetables, whole grains, legumes, eggs, fish and spinach will help increase your energy and replenish iron levels you’re losing

Emmenagogues, such as ginger and turmeric, are herbs that stimulate blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus.

when you bleed. Make sure to pick up some sweet

Vitamin C-rich foods, such as papaya, contain

potatoes, probiotic yogurts, pumpkin seeds and

period-inducing carotene. Pineapple reduces

proteins next time you go shopping.

inflammation, which is considered another cause

Luteal Phase During the luteal phase, the body of the unfertilized follicle stays on the surface of the ovary and turns into the corpus luteum. This

of irregular periods.

Drinking jaggery, a type of sugar mixed with ginger, sesame seeds, turmeric and carom seeds, is another period inducer.

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Menstrual Cycle Foods To Avoid Now that you know the foods to eat during your period, here are some foods not to eat: •

Avoid caffeinated foods, such as coffee which can cause cramps.

•

Alcohol can heighten feelings of nausea.

•

Red meat can cause cramps.

•

Dairy causes bloating and discomfort.

•

Too much salt can cause bloating and cramping.

•

Spicy foods can cause discomfort.

•

Avoid overeating sugar since it can cause a spike in energy followed by a crash.

Avoiding these foods will not only help relieve any sources of period discomfort by eliminating the culprits but also help with overall health, especially during the menstrual cycle.

A Parting Reminder Period cramps are painful and may seem like they’ll never end. Food plays such an important role in how periods operate and can offer relief or even induce menstrual cycles. Remember that eating foods rich in protein, vitamin C, fiber, antioxidants and whole grains is essential during your period. Now, grab some pineapple, and make sure to get some rest!

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 65

M

enstrual cycles can often be uncomfortable. Every month, women endure bloating, cramps, acne breakouts, fatigue and other menstrual symptoms — an inevitable ordeal.

It might seem counterintuitive that exercising and breaking

a sweat can assist with feeling tired and ill. Conventional wisdom tells us to rest when we are feeling sick and unwell. Exercise during menstruation, however, is an exception.

While there are some factors to consider, such as what types of workouts are most appropriate and the severity of one’s period, overall, exercise during menstruation has a positive impact.

IS IT BAD TO EXERCISE DURING MENSTRUATION? There is no evidence in scientific literature to suggest that exercising when menstruating has a detrimental effect on one’s health. This is not to say that exercising during the menstrual phase is the same as when one isn’t on their period.

Athletic performance may be affected, and some forms of exercise may be more challenging and less viable than others. Heather Watson, a British tennis player, has spoken about how her menstrual cycle affected her performance in the 2015 Australian Open.

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WRITTEN BY ZENITH LUNDELL

What Are the Benefits of Exercise During Your Period?

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 67

Performance aside, exercise when menstruating is not harmful and can imbue a range of positive effects.

The hormonal changes that cause

suddenly takes up an intense workout

water when you exercise during

menstruation also hinder athletic

routine, problems such as irregular or

menstruation. Metabolic rates vary

performance.

temperature

missed periods may arise. It is wise

during different menstrual phases,

increases during the luteal phase,

Body

to gradually increase the intensity

so you need to ensure sufficient

just before the period starts, making

of your workouts to avoid disrupting

nourishment to account for them.

road running more difficult. An

your menstrual cycle.

increased body temperature raises the threshold at which one starts sweating, meaning that women who run during this phase might be less effective at cooling their bodies down.

HOW TO EXERCISE

poor hydration can also lead to a

ACCORDING TO YOUR

change in menstrual symptoms, such

MENSTRUAL CYCLE

as increased bleeding and a change in flow.

Body performance varies during the

the performance aspect of exercise

HOW TO EXERCISE

cycle, the follicular and luteal phases.

during menstruation published in the

DURING A PERIOD

Due to the hormonal state of your

A review and analysis of studies on

Sports Medicine journal found that

two different phases of the menstrual

performance might be reduced by “a

There is no need to overhaul

trivial amount.” Moreover, the design

your

and methodologies of the studies

menstruating. If your workouts are

analyzed potentially overstated the

generally intense, it might be worth

differences in athletic performance.

toning them down during your period.

Performance aside, exercise when

Extremely

menstruating is not harmful and can

exceeding 60 minutes) should also

imbue a range of positive effects.

be avoided since they might increase

WILL EXERCISE AFFECT

routine

to

long

exercise

workouts

when

(i.e.,

overall inflammation. Some experts also recommend avoiding exercise

MY PERIOD?

routines involving bodily inversion,

According to the Office on Women’s

disrupt reproductive organ blood

Health, strenuous and excessive

flow.

exercise during menstruation can cause adverse effects. If a woman who has not been regularly exercising

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Not consuming enough calories and

which might increase bleeding and

It is vital to ensure that you consume enough calories and drink enough

body during your follicular phase (i.e., the first menstrual cycle phase), you can build muscle and train hard.

Your recent blood loss means that increasing iron intake is crucial for performance and overall well-being.

In the luteal phase, you experience an increase in progesterone and estrogen, reducing your ability to gain muscle mass. Your body also has a harder time accessing stored energy in the luteal phase, meaning that adequate nutrition and hydration become necessary. The luteal phase is ideal for milder workouts and recovery.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 69

Instead of using medication, many women have decided to work out to reduce negative menstrual symptoms.

THE BENEFITS OF EXERCISING DURING A

Instead of using medication, many

also relieve menstrual symptoms

women have decided to work out to

by

releasing

endorphins,

neurotransmitter

PERIOD

that

a

reduce negative menstrual symptoms.

induces

Exercise is an accessible and pragmatic

feelings of pleasure and dulls feelings

way to address these symptoms and

salutary

of pain. Furthermore, aerobic exercise

improve overall health. Whether it’s a

for everyone, regardless of their

can help improve your mood and

cardiovascular routine, yoga, pilates or

menstrual cycle, undertaking exercise

blood circulation during a period.

a strength training program, exercise

While

being

active

is

during menstruation has additional benefits.

One of the most sought-after benefits of exercise during menstruation is its

Some evidence supports the notion

effect on bloating. During a period,

that exercise when menstruating

water retention causes women to

alleviates

dysmenorrhoea

bloat, leading to discomfort. Exercise

(PD), which is the chronic, spasmodic

primary

is a fantastic way to sweat out the

pain associated with periods. In some

excess water and reduce bloating.

women, exercise reduces the need for pain medication to manage cramps.

EXERCISE AND THE

The American College of Obstetricians

MENSTRUAL CYCLE

and Gynecologists (ACOG) notes that at least 30 minutes of daily exercise can reduce the adverse effects of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), the physical and psychological changes that occur before menstruation.

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Exercise during menstruation can

Menstruation

can

be

unpleasant

for women, to say the least. Their hormones are in flux, their sleeping patterns might be affected and they’re dealing with pain, discomfort and bloating.

during menstruation can lead to a more pleasant period and greater resilience for future ones.

Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 71

Breath Analysis HOW THE INVENTION OF PNOE COULD CHANGE HEALTHCARE FOREVER WORDS BY RILEY GEORGE

A

s an engineer in Greece, Panos Papadiamantis focused on mechanical engineering where he later conducted research

and risk analysis on nuclear technology related to national security. He later was approached by his life-long friend who wanted to develop an affordable breath analysis device to analyze human metabolism with clinical precision, and PNOE was born.

“You can understand a lot of things about the human health through breath that you can’t really get from any other specimen of the human body you can analyze. Our device is probably one of the most valuable assessments in medicine but also one of the most underutilized ones,” Papadiamantis said.

Just 5 years after creating the product, there are more than 3,000 health professionals using the device and 100,000 cardio metabolic analyses with it. Their goal with the PNOE product is to enable health professionals to prescribe clinical grade wellness through breath analysis.

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Breath analysis can provide a wealth of information for healthcare professionals even though so few use it. Before PNOE, devices for breath analysis were difficult to use and expensive.

“And this enablement includes providing personal personalized analysis, doing the programming and white labeling, white labeling it with their business, providing the marketing support, and weaving all of their existing services into our programming along with our insights so that they can deliver a completely unified experience for their customers,” he said.

Breath analysis, also known as metabolic testing or VO2max testing, involves analyzing a person’s exhaled gasses. Its roots can be traced back to the early 1900s when scientists were searching to comprehend the fundamental mechanism of all living organisms: the absorption and utilization of oxygen.

This test is considered the most comprehensive evaluation in medicine as it assesses all aspects of human physiology that are essential to nutrition and exercise prescription, longevity assessment, and chronic disease prevention. The heart, lungs, blood circulation, and cells are all evaluated through breath analysis, which analyzes 23 biomarkers during inhalation and exhalation to assess oxygen flow through these systems.

The significance of oxygen has been established through numerous studies, culminating in the American Heart Association’s landmark scientific statement in 2016, which elevated VO2peak to a crucial vital sign that provides the strongest evidence of life expectancy and quality.

Breath analysis can provide a wealth of information for healthcare professionals even though so few use it. Before PNOE, devices for breath analysis were difficult to use and expensive. Not to mention, they are clunky and not user friendly. The process of translating the data into actionable steps was also difficult for everyone.

“It is the only assessment known to mankind that can non-invasively, in just 10 minutes, analyze the combined operation of your heart, your lungs, your circulations and your cellular health. So, see how effective your metabolic activities are happening down to a cellular level, understanding how many calories, fats and carbohydrates you’re burning. No other assessment is capable of delivering that,” Papadiamantis said.

Papadiamantis and his company deliver the PNOE device to clinics and train them on how to use it. The good thing about their invention is that it is user friendly and only takes about 10-20 minutes to deliver the test. The product also has a cloud to connect the tests and hold data with built-in AI and algorithms. And it does not just score different aspects of the patient’s health. Rather, PNOE provides patients with very personalized and targeted nutrition, exercise, lifestyle and breath work advice that effectively becomes the wellness programming that the clinic delivers to the consumer.

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An important part of PNOĒ’s value is that identifying the biological limitation a patient faces, provides a biometric justification for the appropriate bio-optimization services available in the clinic (i.e., cryotherapy, red-light therapy, IV therapy). This renders PNOĒ a powerful lead generator for such services and a way for health professionals to quantify their impact on their patients through an easy, reliable, and non-invasive process that doesn’t involve lab work. It bridges the “I feel better” with the “I am better.”

There are four categories that utilize programming. The first is longevity breath analysis, which is the most reliable and scientifically substantiated source of quantifying biological age and for anti-aging plus the tests that PNOE provides are considered by the American Heart Association. The next is weight loss.

“Breath analysis is the gold standard for measuring your metabolism, and understanding whether you’re experiencing metabolic slowdown can result in prescribing effectively a program that is going to reverse that or a verdict in the first place,” Papadiamantis said.

Performance is another aspect that can be improved through breath analysis. It can assess improvements needed in physical performance and prescribe personalized training plans to enhance performance to the ideal. The final aspect is mental health as breath analysis can analyze physiological and psychological stress levels to improve these areas and give a detailed, personal program for improvement utilizing breathwork, nutrition, and exercise program.

“We really don’t frame ourselves as a longevity company, a weight loss company, a performance company, or a mental health company, but it is something that we can very effectively support for the businesses that we serve,” he said.

Breath analysis, particularly PNOE, is centered around the idea of prevention. It is an effective tool for early detection for chronic diseases such as heart disease, lung disease, metabolic disease, and type two diabetes.

“Whether there is an onset of disease in any of these three systems and prescribing actionable and personalized programs for averting it. So we want to be a big part of the prevention narrative, which we all hope becomes stronger in today’s medical world. And as far as prevention in general goes for the healthcare system, we need to become preventative or our economy will go under,” Papadiamantis said.

Patients have testified on numerous occasions that PNOE saved them and changed their healthcare habits through preventative measures. Men’s Health magazine, featured a testimonial about how it changed their life.

PNOE can be an effective tool to create personalized wellness programs and help medical professionals be more efficient in their diagnosis and preventative measures.

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T O P D O C C L I N I C S M I A M I AT T H E F O U R S E AS O N S O F F E R I N G B O DY C O N T O U R I N G , FAC I A L R E J U V E N AT I O N , & L AS E R T H E R A P Y Top Doctor Magazine / Issue 166 / 79