Greek Quinoa Salad

Another great SUMMER Salad!Greek Quinoa Salad

  • 1 cup of quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 tomato, seeded and chopped
  • 1 lemon, zested
  • 1/2 cup olives (I used a green/black mix)
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped fine
  • 2 ounces low fat feta
  • 1 T olive oil
  • 1 T balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  1. Place vegetable broth and quinoa in a large stock pot. Bring to a boil. Boil uncovered for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and drain in a fine metal colander.
  2. Rinse pot and bring two inches of water to a boil. Place quinoa in the metal colander over the water. Cover and steam for 10 minutes.
  3. While quinoa is steaming, combine chopped spinach, tomato and lemon zest in a small boil.
  4. When quinoa is cooked, drain the water. Rinse the pot and return the quinoa to it. Add the spinach mixture and cover. Allow to sit covered for 5 minutes or until spinach wilts.
  5. Add parsley and feta.
  6. In a small bowl, combine 1 T olive oil, 1 T balsamic vinegar and garlic. Toss with salad

What is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?

Do you know what cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is? cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

Your brain has a special fluid circulating inside it called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Lots of veins and arteries in your brain are filled with blood yet there are special cavities and passageways in your brain and spinal cord filled with CSF.

What is CSF? It’s like your blood plasma – that is, blood without the red blood cells. It does amazing things. For one thing the CSF helps your brain pulsate and that is reflected in the pulsing of your skull (cranial) bones that creates a wave-like motion 8-12 times per minute. (6)

Other things your CSF does:

  • Temperature control (brain anti-freeze)
  • Waste removal
  • Nutrition
  • Creates cranial bone motion and brain (dural) tension
  • Protective barrier against trauma
  • Chemical buffer against toxins
  • Gives the brain buoyancy, physical and chemical support

Chiropractic adjustments, by releasing stress on the structural system, help promote the unobstructed flow of CSF through the brain and spinal cord.

Where do vegans get their protein?

So as a Vegan/Vegetarian we get this questions all the time…where do you get your protein??…. so here we go… By Lauren Venosta

Vegans don’t consume any products that come from an animal-based source. All macronutrients like protein, vegan protein carbohydrates, and fat are only consumed through plant-based sources—which can make it challenging to get enough protein.

A common question many vegans are asked is, “How do you get enough protein?” Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to get adequate amounts of protein on a vegan diet.

The  important thing to note about plant-based protein sources is that they are more bioavailable to the body. This means that the amino acids (which make up the proteins) are more easily broken down and absorbed by the body. Remember, you aren’t only what you eat, but you are what you absorb! If your body can’t absorb the protein you’re eating, it is useless.

If you’re a vegan or are interested in following a plant-based diet, these foods pack a plant-based protein punch!

  1. Spirulina     Spirulina is a blue-green algae that contains the essential amino acidsrequired for protein assimilation. It’s rich in chlorophyll, which you can see by the dark green color. 8.05 g of protein per 2 tablespoons
  1. Lentils    These edible pulses are a powerhouse of protein, fiber, and iron. Lentils are an easy way to get plant-based protein because they are easily digested and are a versatile ingredient. 17.86 g of protein per cup of cooked lentils
  1. Pea Protein   Green peas contain adequate levels of protein in their raw form (9 g per 1/4 cup), and pea protein is a popular alternative to the whey protein or egg-white protein that are commonly used in protein powders. 21 g of protein per 1/4 cup
  1. Chickpeas Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are meaty and filling. 14.53 g of protein per cup of cooked chickpeas
  1. Nutritional Yeast   Nutritional yeast, a food additive grown on molasses and treated to be “inactive” (as compared to “active” baking yeast), is known for adding a “cheesy” flavor to many dairy-free recipes. The flavor is amazing, but its nutrient profile is even better! It’s loaded with amino acids and B vitamins. Amino acids are essential for protein synthesis and B vitamins help covert the food you eat into useable fuel for the body. 8 g of protein per 1/4 cup
  1. Quinoa   Did you know that quinoa is a seed? Although it mimics a grain-based texture and cooks similar to rice, it is 100 percent seed. And that means it has more protein than many grains! 8.14 g of protein per 1 cup of cooked quinoa
  1. Almonds  A study showedthat eating 1.5 ounces of almonds per day can lower your cholesterol, keep your heart healthy, and even reduce belly fat!  15.12 g of protein per 1/2 cup
  1. Chia Seeds   In addition to their protein benefit, chia seeds are loaded with so much fiber they can actually absorb 10 to 12 times their size in water. This allows them to create a gel-like consistency and expand in your stomach, which keeps you fuller longer and improves digestive health.  8.91 g of protein per 1/4 cup
  1. Pumpkin Seeds    Pumpkin seeds are not only protein rich, but rich in magnesium as well. Magnesium is helpful for regulating blood sugar levelsso eating pumpkin seeds is helpful for reducing your risk of type 2 diabetes.  9.75 g of protein per 1/4 cup
  1. Steel-Cut Oats  Oats contain not only protein, but also fiber and iron. It’s important to purchase steel-cut oats, as they are higher in protein than processed oats. Steel-cut oats take longer to cook and have a more dense texture..14 g protein in 1/2 cup

There are plenty of vegan foods that contain protein. The important thing to remember when eating a vegan diet is to consume a wide-variety of different foods and colors. This will ensure you are getting all the necessary macronutrients (like protein) that are needed to sustain your body. Kick that lack-of-protein fear to the curb, because there is an abundance of bioavailable protein\ in plant-based foods.

What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Chiropractic care can help with all sort of things. Even things that are hard to pronounce like Ankylosing Spondylitis.

Ankylosing Spondylitis in a 38-year-oldankylosing spondylitis

A 38-year-old man entered a chiropractor’s office complaining of upper back pain, neck pain, left groin and bilateral buttock pain, right patella and right medial heel pain. Ten years prior, the patient sought medical consultation with a rheumatologist and was diagnosed with Reiter’s Syndrome, which was later amended to Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). He was told he’d continue to deteriorate over the years.

Medical care consisted of Pamidronate and Alendronate (prescription medications) that he had discontinued on his own.

The patient reported relief of all his pain symptoms, increased mobility and improved posture. He had 16 appointments for care over a one-year period with constant improvement. He continues care on a periodic basis.

Reference:

Alcantara J, Alcantara J, Alcantara J. improvement in quality of life, posture, range of motion and pain following chiropractic care of a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research.April 12, 2018:68-76.

GRILLED SUMMER VEGETABLES WITH CHICKPEAS

Another great Summer recipe. Visit the Grand Ledge Farmer’s Market for all your summer vegetables!

Serves 4 to 6

Ingredientsgrilled vegeables

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for oiling the grill
  • 1 each red and yellow bell pepper, cored, seeded and quartered
  • 1 small red onion, cut into thick rings
  • 2 zucchini, thickly sliced lengthwise
  • 2 yellow squash, thickly sliced lengthwise
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons chopped basil
  • 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

  • Oil grill grates, then preheat grill to medium high heat.
  • Working in batches, grill peppers, onions, zucchini and squash, flipping once, until just charred in parts and tender, 6 to 8 minutes total
  • Transfer to a large platter as done.
  • Set aside to let cool before cutting into bite-size pieces.
  • In a large bowl, combine grilled vegetables, garlic, vinegar, oil, basil, chickpeas, salt and pepper.
  • Garnish with Parmesan and serve immediately or cover and chill until ready to serve.

Autism and Chiropractic Care

How many people suffering, on drugs, facing a life of limitation could be helped by chiropractic care?  Probably most of them.

Autism and Chiropractic Care

A 10-year-old girl diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)  and complained of:

  • neck pain
  • low back pain
  • insomnia

Autism and Chiropractic Care

In addition, she exhibited head banging and other uncontrolled behavior.

A total of 12 chiropractic adjustments were delivered to her occiput, C1, C2, sacrum, and coccyx over an eight-week period. When she first came to the clinic she held herself in a protective position: taut and rigid. However, after an adjustment she became much more relaxed, her outbursts ceased, she was calmer and her sleep improved.

Do you know anyone with the above symptoms? Please share this article with them. We’d love to help!

517.627.4547

Reference: Pappicco M. Improved health outcomes & quality of life in a 10-year-old child with autism spectrum disorder following chiropractic care to reduce vertebral subluxation: a case study & selective review of the literature. Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, Chiropractic~ March 22, 2018:7-12.

Texas Caviar Recipe

Summer time is time to enjoy salads!texas cavier

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup sugar ( I use agave nectar and a little less than that)
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 3/4 cup white cider vinegar
  • 1 green pepper, chopped
  • 1 yellow pepper, chopped
  • 1 orange pepper, chopped
  • 1 red pepper, chopped
  • 1 red onion diced or a bunch of green onions sliced
  • 1 can corn (drained)
  • 1 can each black eyed peas  and black beans(rinsed and drained)

Mix well and enjoy.

Note from Dr C:  this is to me a basic recipe…I throw in whatever beans I like, I have added edamame/Chickpeas/kidney beans.  Also celery and shredded carrots have found their way into this mix and it keeps for a week in the fridge (if you are lucky).

Do chiropractors help with more than just back problems?

Spend some time in a chiropractor’s waiting room (such as ours) and you’ll see people with lots of different problems coming in for care:

  • babies with ear infectionsSciatica
  • kids with asthma
  • pregnant women wanting an easier labor and delivery
  • people with colds and the flu
  • Folks suffering from digestive issues
  • People with headaches and migraines
  • Women with menstrual problems and/or fertility problems
  • People suffering from elimination problems
  • Those with hearing and vision problems
  • (And of course) people with back, neck, arm, leg, shoulder, hip and other pains

Why? It’s because the nerves that come from the spine go to all your internal organs and if there is a blockage where the nerves emanate in the spine (a subluxation) it can and often does affect the function of the organs, and even the function of the entire body.

So, do chiropractors help with more than just back problems? The answer is YES! drawing of spinal column and nerves

It’s understandable that people think that chiropractors are “back doctors” because they work on the spine. However, chiropractic care is for the whole person and chiropractors work on the entire body – they just do it through the spine because that’s where many health-damaging subluxations appear.

It doesn’t matter what conditions you have – you always need a healthy spine to maximize your healing potential. That’s especially true if you are dealing with serious health concerns.

Call and schedule an appointment today and start feeling better!

517.627.4547

Chiropractic and Stress: How it helps!

chiropractic and stressWhat do chiropractic and stress have in common?

Life is full of ups and downs that are stressful. Even good events such as marriage, the birth of a child, buying a home, family reunions, vacations and many other joyful activities register quite high on the stress meter – as high in stress as when really bad things happen.

The difference is whether you hold on to your physical and emotional stress or you let your stress go once the event is over. If you had a bad event (getting fired, losing a big game, a bad relationship) it’s totally understandable that you experienced a lot of stress. But if you always carry around the hurt (stress) then it’s chronic stress and that ultimately wears you down.

If only the good feelings, the happy events, the exciting times stayed! But we’re not supposed to be high all the time, that too would be draining! We’re not meant to be on highs and lows all the time.

Many people are walking around with lots of painful memories – layers and layers of emotional and physical traumas they don’t need to hold on to anymore. One of the powerful miracles of chiropractic care is that it interrupts painful stress responses. Sometimes a chiropractic adjustment is referred to as a “pattern interrupt.” That is, the memory may continue to exist but it doesn’t eat you up inside. Technically speaking, you are no longer somaticizing your emotional stress. This frees up energy for healing and happiness.

When chiropractors address your body for subluxations, they are locating and ultimately releasing deep mind-body stress that can have powerful healing repercussions. The emotional benefits of chiropractic are so powerful that in the US alone many mental institutions were founded that used chiropractic care.

For that reason alone, everyone should have a periodic chiropractic checkup (and adjustment) in order to release stress that’s burdening them and affecting their physical and mental health.

Contact us today and be on your way to a less stressful day!

517.627.4547

Happy Patient Jaimie reports that she has noticed that her feeling of stress in the body has dropped dramatically since starting chiropractic care and that she actually finds herself have GOOD days at work!!!!

Latest News from Charmaine: June 2018

Greetings all,April 2018

We now can officially say summer is here with all  the fun and games of family, friends, graduations reunions, vacations, BBQs, sunshine, suntans and mosquitoes all mixed into one big messy bundle.

This month- (Flag Day June 14th) Dr. Ray and I celebrated 38 years (each) in Chiropractic, having graduated summer of 1980.  Daughter Damaris celebrated 8 years since her graduation a week later and she has firmly established herself in Norway in her own practice- specializing in babies and pregnant women.

She will be meeting us in Scotland at the End of July and so we will be away from the office 7/27/2018  to 8/5/2018. Time to get away, re-connect and have fun with Alfred who is growing like a weed! My niece will possibly be joining us from the Isle of Jersey.

This month will see me competing in a power lifting meet in Rochester Hills 6/23 and the Senior Olympics will follow in August (8/12).

Make this a great summer and feel free to share any of your recipes or holiday experiences with us.

SEE YOU IN THE OFFICE, ON THE TABLE, ON THE MAT OR UNDER THE BARBELLS

Jack R says,

“I wake up ready for the day…not sluggish or tired. I just feel better, I have more stamina and my energy comes back quicker after a hard day’s work.”

Another happy patient who has a better day with Chiropractic Care!