The Weather

There are many of us including myself that have Osteoarthritis and Asthma that are often aggravated by weather changes. Most doctors will tell you there is no evidence and its in your head. Well I am here to tell you that is not the case.

In osteoarthritis the joints of your body are usually affected, these joints are pressurized vacuums that respond to external changes in environmental pressure. It is common sense and basic physics that if the pressure changes outside, then the pressure inside will also change.

Asthma is also one of the conditions affected by weather changes. Doctors are now warning against recent epidemics of “thunderstorm asthma” in letters to the medical journal of Australia November 7th by Dr Megan Howden of the Department of Respiratory and sleep medicine at Austin health in Melbourne. Good on you Dr Megan for letting us know about the power of the weather.

Food is Medicine

We all know food is the best medicine.

Millions of us use herbs in our cooking to make them taste better, but what about the health benefits? Recently a study in Belgium showed “whole spice leaves of oregano, thyme, and basil contain rosmarinic acid - a natural phenol molecule that can starve cancer blood vessels. Thyme had the highest amount, followed by oregano, then basil. Of the oregano, Greek oregano was the most potent type, nearly as potent as thyme”

Another study has linked soft drink consumption to asthma and COPD conditions. Reducing or cutting out your soft drink altogether is advised if you have any respiratory conditions. We know fish is good, and yet another Danish study has confirmed it. Women of childbearing age can reduce their risk of heart problems by eating more fish. Those who rarely ate fish had a 50% more chance of cardiovascular problems.

Sun is Medicine

We are all warned about the dangers of sun. “slip slop slap” but dare anyone say go out in the sun more lest they be chastised.
But what about Vitamin D?
Millions of people are now taking Vitamin D as advised by their medical professions but how many tablets do we have to take, seriously
According to the national Vitamin D council

“Vitamin D manages calcium in your blood, bones and gut and helps cells all over your body to communicate properly. Vitamin D mainly comes from your skin when it is exposed to sunlight. After that, your body goes through a number of chemical processes to change it so that your body can use it. “

Research has found that kids with low Vitamin D levels especially when overweight are at higher risk of developing insulin resistence leading to diabetes as kids and adults require more Vitamin D the heavier they are. In addition to lifestyle changes parents should ensure their kids receive enough sun. Given there are around 1.7 million Australians with diabetes and 85% are type 2 with a current shortage of the medications used to treat this condition it is essential for everyone to reduce their risk factors and avoid getting this condition.

To make an appointment with one of our Osteopathic Doctors Book Online at www.HealthState.com.au or contact 0404001172

WE ARE DESIGNED TO SHINE BRIGHTLY

Disclaimer: The content of this blog is informative only and is my opinion. It does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your GP or medical specialist before changing or coming off any medication.