Morning or Night Workouts: Which is Best for Weight Loss?

Welcome Kris Wiese, fitness expert from MyGenetx today for her guest blogging for New Leaf Wellness.

Whether you are an early bird that gets the worm or a night owl that burns the oil, a workout regimen based on your optimum time of day can provide benefits. According to many sources, one is not better than the other. They both have advantages.

Morning Workout Benefits:

  • Boosting endorphins in the morning revs up your metabolism for the day!
  • Raising your body temperature helps wake you up quickly.
  • The quiet of the morning can mean less distractions and temptations to to ditch the workout.
  • When you finish an early workout, the tone is set for the day and you are more likely to eat healthy.
  • Sleep should come easy after a morning workout and full day of activity.

Evening Workout Benefits:

  • Late afternoons and early evenings are great to work off any stress of the day, which will reduce your levels of the stress hormone, cortisol that can lead to over eating.
  • Less warm-up time is required. (You may need an hour or two cool down before bed to prepare your body for good night’s sleep.)
  • Between 2pm-6pm is the peak time for a workout based on enzyme activity and muscular function.
  • If the workout is the last task of the day, you will have no time constraints.

On days when you feel great, you can extend your workout time!

When combined with a healthy diet, four workouts a week are encouraged for weight loss. If you are not sure what your optimum time is, try two morning workouts and two night workouts the first week to determine the best fit.

Information provided by Kris Wiese, Healthcare Content Specialist Director of Communications at MyGenetx. For more on fitness, contact Kris at info@newleafcenters.com.

 

For more helpful articles, check out:

http://www.self.com/story/is-it-better-to-work-out-in-the-morning-or-at-night

http://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/best-time-to-work-out

http://www.shape.com/blogs/fit-list-jay-cardiello/which-better-am-vs-pm-workouts

What Is The Difference Between Bio-identical And Synthetic Hormones?

What is the difference?

In our last post we noted that many foods have been genetically modified, but unanticipated, negative effects of these products in the human body have caused many health conscious people to choose a nonGMO alternative to consume. 

Similarly, the hormones we produce in our own body are different from synthetic hormones produced by a pharmaceutical manufacturer.  The synthetic variety has enough similarity to the bio-identical hormone that it does turn on the main function in the body, but its unique structure allows it to be patented by the pharmaceutical company and thus sold for a profit. 

In contrast, a bio-identical hormone, being identical to that formed in our body, cannot be patented by a pharmaceutical company.  Equally important is the fact that the bio-identical form acts just as our own native hormone to produce the desired function without increasing risk, while the unique structure of the synthetic hormone also turns on effects in our bodies that does increase risk.  That is why “hormones” get a bad rap: the increase in heart attacks, strokes, blood clots, and cancer  associated with synthetic hormones is enough to make anyone think twice before using them! 

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Do You Read Labels?

A quick visit to your local grocery store confirms the American public reads labels on the boxes and cans of food purchased for consumption. In bold letters, many products proudly display that no genetically modified organism (nonGMO) is used in the production of the food, signifying that it is a much healthier product!

How many of you who select a nonGMO product over one that has been genetically modified use the same discretion in selecting your hormone replacement? Yes, both guys and gals!

Hormone therapy, like food products, comes in the “natural” variety and also a “modified” version, better known as synthetic.  Just as GMO modified foods have potential for harm in our bodies, synthetic hormones have potential harm associated with using them in our bodies, while the “natural” or better called bio-identical hormones have a safety and benefit record for long term health and wellness! 

If that “wets your appetite” for more information, look for our next blog entry to give you more specifics on the differences…and keep reading those labels!

Benefits of Sermorelin Therapy

Sermorelin acetate is a biological active analog of growth hormone releasing factor (GRF 1-44) which is a growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) that is naturally produced by the human brain to stimulate production and secretion of human growth hormone (HGH) by the pituitary gland. Sermorelin is not a growth hormone; it is a growth hormone secretagogue, which means that it stimulates the pituitary gland by binding to specific receptors to increase the production and secretion of HGH. As a youth, ample amounts of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) are produced so that the pituitary gland is able to provide the body with sufficient growth hormone to sustain health, vitality and otherwise normal aspects of human form and function. While aging, GHRH declines causing reduced production and secretion of pituitary HGH and thereby increasing growth hormone insufficiencies that erode health, stamina and vitality during later life.

This therapy consists of daily injections of Sermorelin acetate which stimulates the pituitary gland to produce increased natural secretion of human growth hormone. Since Sermorelin acetate is approved as safe for use in children to increase their production of growth hormone, it is considered safe for use in increasing the natural production of growth hormone in adults deficient in growth hormone. Each person’s individual needs are used to determine dosing

BENEFITS OF SERMORELIN THERAPY:

Increases energy, vitality, strength and endurance
Increases lean body mass by developing new muscle cells
Breaks down body fat and fatty acids
Improves heart function
Increases calcium retention which strengthens and increases bone density
Enhances the immune system and accelerates healing from wounds or surgery
Promotes non-REM slow wave sleep
Increases protein synthesis and stimulates the growth of all internal organs except the brain
Reduces liver uptake of glucose, an effect that opposes that of insulin
Promotes liver glycogenesis
Plays a role in fuel homeostasis
Contributes to the maintenance and function of pancreatic islets

Our program includes physician-directed individual evaluations, the use of bio-identical hormones and the close monitoring of blood levels to restore youth and minimize the symptoms associated with menopause, andropause and aging. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and determine if Sermorelin Acetate Therapy is the right choice for you!

Glutathione- The Master Anti-oxidant

Glutathione (GSH) is a small protein molecule, or tri-peptide that is formed by three amino acids which include Glycine, Cysteine and Glutamic acid. Glutathione is found in a large quantity in the liver and it plays a key role in supporting the immune system. Medical experts say that glutathione is the most effective and efficient endogenous anti-oxidant. It is important to note that the accumulation of oxidative damage which is a biochemical mechanism is closely related to aging. There is a direct relationship between the decrease of Glutathione concentrations and aging. Most scientists are now convinced that a high level of Glutathione will reduce the rate of aging, detoxify your liver, support the immune system and protect body cells from free radicals.

 

Supplementing Glutathione

As people grow older, the levels of Glutathione drop and the ability of the body to detoxify free radicals decreases. Glutathione is produced inside the human cells where the production is determined by Glutathione precursors such as the amino acid cysteine. You are advised to consume foods that have high Glutathione amino acid precursors such as raw fruits, vegetables and whey proteins. The faster and easier way to increase your GSH levels is through direct supplementing or “push” that gives immediate results. Supplementing Glutathione levels in your body is a fantastic way to improve your health and longevity potential. Recent studies have shown that above the age of 20 the production of Glutathione decreases by 1 percent each year due to toxic overloads, poor diet and free radical stress. We’re more than happy to explain the benefits in more detail and help you get started on Glutathione Therapy at New Leaf Wellness

 

Three Main Benefits of Glutathione

a.) Anti-oxidation and Free Radical Hunters

Glutathione is a natural antioxidant found in the bodies cells. There are other antioxidants such as vitamin C and E which depend on glutathione to function effectively. Alpha lipoic acid is also an antioxidant which depends on Glutathione for its functions. Free radicals are waste products that remain after cells consume oxygen and nutrients. These radicals are picked up by vitamins C and E, and then passed to GSH. Glutathione is used to neutralize the free radicals that are very harmful to the body. With low levels of glutathione, even the best vitamins cannot perform their functions effectively. Any person interested in slowing down the rate of the aging process should take the advantage of anti oxidation and neutralization of free radicals provided by Glutathione.

 

b.) Increased Immune System

The immune system is used to protect your body against diseases and foreign matter which can cause the flu, cancer, and allergies among others. The immune system is able to protect your body in two ways, the first way is by producing antibodies that fight foreign cells in your body. The second way is by lymphocytes that keep on circulating in the blood stream. Glutathione boosts the immune system by availing the B and T cells which are fighter cells that are used to attack any foreign cell in your body. GSH will replenish the fighter cells in your body after attacking the harmful foreign cells.

 

c.) Detoxifier and Neutralizer

A high concentration of glutathione is found​​ in the liver, lungs and kidneys. These organs help to eliminate toxins, wastes and heavy metals. Glutathione binds with toxins and poisons in your body, and make them water soluble so that they can pass through your body. By increasing glutathione in your body you will able to support your liver, lungs and kidneys in eliminating wastes, along with every living cell in your body. When you eliminate the toxins and waste from you body you will notice increased energy, faster healing and decreased pain.  Also your metabolism is better balanced, your sleep is improved and you can think more clearly.

IV Nutrition Therapy

Nourishing your body from the inside out

Men are often concerned about the way their body looks on the outside, and can overlook the importance of nourishing their body from the inside. With our breakthrough IV Nutrition Therapy, you are sure to receive every vitamin and mineral you need to look healthy and vivacious from the inside out.The goal of our IV Nutrition Therapy is to identify your specific dietary needs, and areas that may be missing in your nutritional health. By injecting those nutrients directly into the blood, we can ensure your body gets everything it requires to remain strong.

This transformative therapy delivers nutrients directly to your bloodstream, boosts the immune system and reduces oxidative stress. We are proud to carry a number of IV therapies designed to treat specific conditions or simply to promote overall wellness. Eliminate  toxins from the body, increase your energy levels and feel better. Our goal is to work with you to provide you with the best nutrients for your body to keep you healthy. Contact us today and let us create the perfect treatment just for you.

Types of IV Therapy

MYERS’ COCKTAIL

This particular blend was developed in the 1970’s by Doctor John Myers at Johns Hopkins University, who used intravenous injections of micronutrients to treat his patients.

Super Immune: This is our most potent IV for infections and includes the highest dose of vitamin C along with other nutrients known to boost the immune system. There are several protocols with this IV for chronic viral infections as well as significant acute infections such as influenza. This IV takes about 3-4 hours.

Liquid Health: Out with the bad, in with the good. Liquid Health is specially blended to help clear out the toxins from within the body. Our systems are under constant attack from toxins and pollutants found in the environment, diet, and naturally occurring physiology. The Liquid Health IV helps your body clean up and filter out things it doesn’t need, allowing you to operate at peak health.

GLUTATHIONE PUSH

Glutathione is called “The Mother of antioxidants” and is the most prolific antioxidant in the body. Due to stress and a highly process food supply, most Americans are antioxidant deficient. This substance improves liver and brain functions, leading to improved memory while helping to lower the risk of conditions such as dementia, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, neuropathy, and liver disease. Glutathione Push can be done by itself  or in combination with Nutritional IVs.

The pre -IV therapy work up will include blood testing.

Vitamin IV Nutrition Boosts Weight Loss

How to boost your weight loss efforts…

It is a rare person who likes needles. Sharp and pointy- they aren’t the most pleasant thing to have stuck into you, right? Why then, would someone voluntarily roll up their sleeves and ask for a vitamin drip?

The answer is simple – to be the healthiest version you can be.

Vitamin IV Nutrition boost weight loss by making you the healthiest version of yourself.

When your body works better, you can lose weight more easily. With an IV Vitamin Drip, you can give your weight loss goals a boost. And, here are five reasons why:

1. Optimizing Vitamin Levels Restores Your Energy Level

As you try and lose weight, it’s not uncommon to limit calories and workout hard. This can cause your energy levels to dip. Vitamin IV Drips, like our “Revive Me” Slow Drip, deliver a big dose of electrolytes so you can feel energized quickly.

2. Improving Your Sleep Increases Weight Loss

While you’re awake, your body has to work hard simply tackling the daily business of living. It’s while you’re asleep that your body can heal and really begin to repair any abnormalities in its daily function. This is why sleep is one of the essential elements of an effective weight loss strategy. Unfortunately, when you are vitamin deficient, your sleep becomes irregular. This hinders your weight loss goals, causing you to hold onto excess fat.

3. IV Drips Maximize Your Vitamin Absorption

Even with the most efficient digestive system, you only absorb 15 – 25 percent of the vitamins and minerals you ingest orally. With a Vitamin IV Drip, you’re able to immediately receive 100 percent of the key nutrients you need.

When your body works better, you lose weight more easily. Vitamin IV Drips help your body work better.

4. Recovering More Quickly From a Workout Lets You Get Back at It

As you work to achieve your weight loss goals, you put your body under an immense amount of strain. A deficiency of any level can make it more difficult for your body to recover, in turn hampering your ability to lose weight.

5. IV Drips Give Your Adrenal Gland a Boost

When you are trying to lose weight, you want to burn as many calories as possible. If your metabolism isn’t operating at its peak, you won’t be able to do so. Vitamin IV Drips can help you fight adrenal fatigue so you can shed your excess pounds.

At New Leaf Wellness, we have 2 IV Nutrition treatments specifically written to support weight loss.

  • 30 minute treatment
  • 60 minute treatment

Take our quiz to learn if you would be a good candidate!

FOR WOMEN

FOR MEN

Lick Your Way To Thin—With A Weight Loss Lollipop

Watching your weight can be a full-time job. Dodging doughnuts in the break room at work and avoiding the chocolate cake that’s calling your name at home can leave you stressed — and hungry! Not to fear, though; there’s a sweet solution to your sticky situation: weight-loss lollipops.

Okay, candy is generally not what you would look to for shedding pounds, but thanks to a weight loss lollipop, candy can keep you slender this slim-down season. The lollipop is packed with a  proprietary blend that includes vitamins to combat cravings and increase energy.

“I have found that a lot of patients generally have a hard time with cravings and appetite,” says Kristin Dwyer, Pharmacist In Charge at New Leaf Specialty Pharmacy. “The phentermine decreases appetite and helps with energy.”

Our lollipops are ideal for busy people who find themselves tired and hungry throughout the day.

“You can carry them anywhere, and people won’t even know you’re on a diet,” Dwyer says. “A consistent patient can lose about half a pound a day.”  The lollipop is a proprietary formula of New Leaf Specialty Pharmacy

At New Leaf Wellness, the Weight Loss Program starts with drawing blood from patients to determine if they are healthy and able to move forward with the Weight Loss Program and the lollipop. The Weight Loss Program also comes with an eating plan and journal, which helps patients become more knowledgeable about appropriate portions as well as how to exercise to stay healthy.

Not only do these lollipops suppress hunger and charge the body with energy, but they also get the nervous system working more efficiently, which plays a big role in weight loss.

Most Americans are constipated because the nervous system is not working properly and that can be a cause of constipation, that can make it harder to lose weight. With the right eating plan and the lollipops, patients are better equipped for success on the weight loss program. This is a perfect answer for people who struggle getting to their desired weight…

At New Leaf Wellness, our Advanced Weight Loss Program is great for both men and women.

Why Men are Getting Botox

For years women have been using BOTOX® to reduce wrinkles and therefore the signs of aging. As it turns out more men are now seeking BOTOX® as well. Most men, however, are very practical and accept cosmetic surgery for different reasons . . . but not always.

Men are now looking for ways to boost their self esteem and confidence in new ways. Whereas previously men looked toward material objects as signs of success, many now see cosmetic surgery as a sign of privilege and affluence. At least 225,000 BOTOX® treatments were performed for men in 2012. BOTOX® has been around for more than 20 years, so why have so many men started to use BOTOX® and other cosmetic procedures recently?

Social scientists have a few suggestions:

  • Cosmetic surgery has become more accessible with less prohibitory prices in the past 20 years.
  • Gender roles have become less rigid and what was previously considered a women’s domain, and visa versa, has blurred. It is now more acceptable for men to have BOTOX®.
  • The baby boomer generation is living longer and seems to refuse to age!
  • Men are trying to keep up with their younger looking wives.
  • The competitive job market seems to demand a youthful, more energetic look.

How Long Does Boxtox Last?  Guys, it depends on each individual. Most dudes I know only need to go in 2x a year. There are some however who feel they benefit from more frequent visits, like every 4 months. For the most part however, 2x a year is more than enough. Keep in mind that the result you see is temporary, meaning eventually the Botox will wear off. This means ongoing visits to the provider to help keep your face from wrinkling out.

How Does It Work? Botox is injected into the facial areas where wrinkles appear in very small concentrations. The drug prevents signals from the nerves from reaching these facial muscles, effectively preventing the muscles from getting the signal to contract. For a short period of time (months) these muscles are effectively, paralyzed. Injected Botox prevents the release of acetylcholine, preventing contraction of the muscle cells.The effect of the drug causes a reduction in abnormal muscle contraction allowing the muscles to become less stiff. In plain-speak Botox helps to stop those fine lines and wrinkles starting in the first place and “calms down” the existing lines that currently sit on your face.

Don’t forget, BOTOX® may just be the perfect gift for the man in your life! Give us a call for your free consultation or to set up an appointment this month!

 

Are Your Adrenals STRESSED OUT?

Many people do not associate poor health with levels of stress but the two correlate. If you are under a lot of stress or are not getting the rest that you need, you may deplete your cortisol levels. Cortisol is just one of the over 50 hormones that our adrenal glands secrete. These two small glands that sit over the kidneys play an important role in our optimal health.

Generally patients who present with adrenal fatigue can often be heard saying, “After______, I was never the same.” The onset of adrenal fatigue often occurs because of financial pressures, infections, emotional stress, smoking, drugs, poor eating habits, sugar and white flour products, unemployment and several other stressors. After experiencing many of these events over a long period of time, the adrenal glands tend to produce less cortisol, the body’s master stress hormone. Cortisol’s main role in the body is to enable us to handle stress and maintain our immune systems. The adrenal gland’s struggle to meet the high demands of cortisol production eventually leads to adrenal fatigue.

Symptoms of adrenal fatigue may include:

  • Chronic fatigue
  • Low blood pressure
  • Low blood sugar
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches
  • Anxiety or panic attacks
  • Depression
  • Low libido
  • Infertility
  • Other debilitating reactions

If you are suffering from Adrenal Fatigue, New Leaf Wellness can help! Let us test your cortisol levels and, if necessary, suggest the appropriate supplements to restore your health and vitality.