Have you noticed that you are tired all of the time? Do you have trouble concentrating? Are you cold and achy? Maybe that you have you been gaining weight even though you eat right and exercising? Are you depressed or do your emotions seem off? If you are having these feelings it is important to know that you are not alone and your symptoms could be the result of a dysfunction in your thyroid
When functioning properly, the thyroid gland secretes just the right amount of thyroid hormone to regulate almost all the metabolic processes in your body. Too much or too little of these vital body chemicals and it can drastically influence energy levels, body weight and your mental health. With over 20 million Americans living with some form of thyroid disease, much attention has been given to the many ways that acupuncture and Oriental medicine can treat thyroid problems. What is the thyroid? The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland that sits in the front of the neck. It is responsible for energy, metabolism, hormone regulation, body weight and blood calcium levels. Thyroid disorders stem from either an overproduction (hyperthyroidism) or underproduction (hypothyroidism) of thyroid hormones. When your thyroid is not functioning properly, your body can experience a variety of symptoms: Hyperthyroidism: • Weight loss despite increased appetite • Increased heart rate, heart palpitations, higher blood pressure, nervousness, and excessive perspiration • More frequent bowel movements, sometimes with diarrhea • Muscle weakness, trembling hands • Development of a goiter (an enlargement in your neck) • Lighter or shorter menstrual periods Hypothyroidism: • Lethargy, slower mental processes or depression • Reduced heart rate • Increased sensitivity to cold • Tingling or numbness in the hands • Development of a goiter (an enlargement in your neck) • Constipation, heavy menstrual periods or dry skin and hair Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can be diagnosed by testing the levels of thyroid hormones in your blood. Hormones secreted by the thyroid are measured, as well as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), a chemical released by the pituitary gland that triggers hormone production in the thyroid. Some milder forms of hypothyroidism can also be detected by a consistently low basal body temperature. How can acupuncture help? Both Western and Eastern medicine offer various methods to restore thyroid hormone levels. Western treatments rely mainly on drugs and surgery while Eastern treatments aim to restore immune function as well as balance the production and release of thyroid hormones through a variety of approaches ranging from acupuncture and herbal remedies to lifestyle changes and special exercises. Acupuncture can be used to restore hormonal balance, regulate energy levels, smooth emotions and help manage sleep, emotions and menstrual problems. There are several powerful acupuncture points on the ear and the body that can be used to regulate the production of thyroid hormones. Treatments take all of your symptoms are taken into account and are aimed at balancing the energy within the body to optimize health. When it comes to lifestyle changes, a diet rich in protein, calcium, magnesium, and iodine helps support thyroid function while certain foods known as goitrogens may interfere with thyroid hormone production and should be limited. These include cruciferous vegetables (such as cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts), peanuts, and soy. Stress reducing exercises such as yoga or tai chi can also be beneficial. If you have a thyroid problem or have a question, call for a consultation. A custom-tailored treatment plan will be created to suit your individual needs so that you can feel better!
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According to Chinese astrology, a Rooster year is anything but laid-back. Much like its symbolic bird, it’s a year that will be a real wake-up call. That being said, Rooster years are rarely ever boring, so it'll be a year with a lot of action. That means the year will see its fair share of both drama and productivity. The best advice is to stay organized and don't slack off: "The Rooster favors those who put in the hard work and stick to a plan."
Although we're transitioning from the Year of the Monkey to the Year of the Rooster in 2017, this year will share its representative element with 2016: fire. That's right, this will be yet another super-charged year. The same element can affect each sign differently. The Fire Rooster, specifically, is an already-intense sign with an extra side of focus and drive. To say that this year will move at top speed is an understatement. So, if you were expecting to get a break this year, luck might not be on your side. But that doesn't mean 2017 will be totally thankless, either. Take it as a challenge to meet — and even exceed at — hard work, planning and, hope will help you succeed. "The Rooster respects those with strong opinions and a good work ethic. Be thoughtful about what’s in your heart and go with it." Are you a Rooster? (1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2017) Strengths They are deep thinkers considered to be honest, bright, communicative, ambitious, capable and warm-hearted. They have strong self-respect and seldom rely on others. As most roosters are born pretty or handsome, they prefer to dress up. They have a quick mind and hot temper. They like to be busy and neat. They are not reluctant to fall behind others and hate dawdlers. Weaknesses They might be enthusiastic about something quickly, but soon might be impassive. They are often a bit eccentric and have difficulty relating with others. They are critical and think they are always right. Like their fortunes, their emotions swing from very high very slow. They can be positive but selfish, caustic and too outspoken. They are narrow-minded and vain. They probably refuse suggestions but would like to lecture others. If they can overcome their arrogance being sincerely in speaking, they will make more progress.  Root vegetables are the stars of winter cooking. The key to delicious and healthy food this winter season is knowing a little about what makes these vegetables shine. One big bonus to root vegetables is their incredible shelf life. As the root of the plant, these vegetables are strong and hearty. Meaning they can last for weeks at a time. These vegetables also store up nutrients, in the form of starch, to sustain the plants during the winter months.
More Great Winter Produce
There are many tasty options for winter produce that are easy to incorporate into your favorite dishes. Produce that’s at its peak in the colder months includes:
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