DETOX: WHAT DOES IT REALLY MEAN?

June 9, 2022 by

People often come to our practice wanting to do a cleanse or “detox”, but what does that really mean?


Very simply, detoxification means getting rid of toxins.


Detoxing our lives might look like eliminating unhealthy relationships with family or friends who negatively influence our mental health.


We can detox our living environments by choosing wood floors instead of carpet or eliminating household products with volatile organic compounds (VOC).


The bottom line is that the concept of “detoxification” is often oversimplified, and we need to get more specific with how we approach this issue.


“An accumulation of toxins may become poisonous in the human body, which may lead to potential damage of vital organs and systems.” Toxins enter the blood stream via ingestion, inhalation, absorption, and through autointoxication (TLW).


Let’s take a closer look at metabolic detoxification and how that plays out in the human body.


In our bodies detoxification means:


SYMPTOMS – Knowing when we are not well and recognizing unwanted symptoms
TOXICITY – Identifying specific toxins that prevent our systems from operating as needed
ELIMINATION – Eliminating toxins from our environment and bodies
REPAIR – Repairing our metabolic functioning to help the body perform at an optimal level

RECOGNIZING SYMPTOMS

Toxicity manifests in our bodies mainly through the gut, kidneys, liver, and skin. Noticing signs of toxicity is the first step in alleviating the problem. Here are a few things to watch for (of course, check with your doctor first and foremost to determine if your symptoms are related to toxicity):



  1. Problems with digestion
  2. Skin irritations
  3. Fatigue
  4. Autoimmune diseases
  5. Abnormal body odors
  6. Frequent or severe headaches
  7. Overall aches and pains
  8. Brain fog
  9. Weight issues
  10. Chemical sensitivities

Noticing and understanding the symptoms of toxicity is helpful in recognizing whether toxins are a factor in the overall health of your body.


IDENTIFY TOXINS AND MINIMIZE FUTURE EXPOSURE

It is ideal to identify the specific causes of toxicity in the body, as different offending agents will require different treatment protocols.  Some of the more common examples include:


  • heavy metals
  • plasticizers
  • pesticides
  • herbicides
  • solvents
  • mold
  • microbes
  • chlorine
  • hydrogenated oils
  • food preservatives

Identifying specific toxic offenders with testing allows us to both treat the underlying cause and limit further exposure.


OPTIMIZE ELIMINATION AND REPAIR METABOLIC FUNCTION

In addition to identifying specific exposures, we also want to look at what we can do to optimize our organs of elimination.


As mentioned before, the organs that help our bodies eliminate toxins can include the gut, kidneys, liver, and skin. Sometimes, these organs of elimination get overloaded by one or more of the aforementioned offenders, so we implement the appropriate treatments to help them recover, restoring the organs back to their optimal function.


TESTING

We provide functional testing for toxicity in the body. We can also perform genetic tests and metabolites that allow us to assess how different components of our liver detoxification pathways are working, which then allows us to target those defects with specific therapies, for example.


This is where the more generic “detoxification” can come into play, as we can still identify genetic predispositions or other underlying reasons for “poor detoxification”, where you may have defective pathways that prevent you from properly metabolizing hormones or other toxic metabolites that are just part of our body’s natural way of breaking down and eliminating byproducts of foods, hormones, etc.


Clinically, we’re trying to figure out both the external variables (what and how much of the offending agent is someone being exposed to) and the internal variables (how well are my elimination and detoxification pathways working).


Schedule time with Dr. Fisel to talk about functional testing and whether or not detoxification is right for your symptoms and your body.


If you live in the Guilford/ Branford/ New Haven/ Madison/ Clinton area and would like to learn more about integrative solutions for your health care needs, I can help you get to the root of your symptoms by promoting health and healing on all levels – physically, emotionally and spiritually. Call (203) 453-0122 or CLICK HERE to schedule a consultation.



REFERENCES


Longevity Wellness Team. “12 Signs You Need a Detox: Longevity Blog: Algarve – Portugal.” Longevity, 10 May 2022, https://longevitywellnessworldwide.com/longevity-blog/12-signs-you-need-a-detox/.


“Metabolic Detoxification.” Metabolic Detox: Why and How to Detoxify – Life Extension, https://www.lifeextension.com/protocols/metabolic-health/metabolic-detoxification.


Filed Under: Detoxification, Health and Wellness Tagged With: , , , ,

INSULIN RESISTANCE

May 9, 2022 by

Somewhere between high blood sugar and full-blown diabetes lives a trait called insulin resistance (Maurer). Not only can insulin resistance contribute to diabetes, it also greatly increases your chances of weight gain and heart disease. Your body is not pre-destined for insulin resistance; rather, it’s a condition within your realm of control. It is an indicator that something more serious could be on your horizon, and also a warning sign to make preventative changes.

“After you eat, a hormone called insulin helps move glucose from your blood into your cells (4, 5). When your body (specifically the muscles, fat, and liver) doesn’t respond as easily to insulin, too much glucose remains in the blood, resulting in what we call high blood sugar. If this happens consistently and your body is unable to keep your blood sugar levels in check, you are considered insulin resistant (4).” (Vellenga).

While insulin resistance sometimes presents as asymptomatic, here are some common symptoms to watch for from high blood sugar to pre-diabetes (Cleveland Clinic):

  • Increased thirst.
  • Frequent urination (peeing).
  • Increased hunger.
  • Blurred vision.
  • Headaches.
  • Vaginal and skin infections.
  • Slow-healing cuts and sores.

When experiencing these symptoms, a treatment plan from a conventional medical perspective might be to treat what’s obvious – specifically the high blood sugar. However, from a naturopathic perspective, we look at and treat the underlying causes of the symptoms.

I offer some specific testing that can detect insulin intolerance before it becomes something more severe. And based on the results, together we will come up with a treatment plan that works in conjunction with the recommendations from your allopathic doctor and also protocols we can try from a naturopathic perspective such as:

  1. Dietary Interventions
  2. Herbal Supplementation
  3. Movement/ Exercise Suggestions

Curious if insulin intolerance is taking a toll on your present and future health? 

If you live in the Guilford/ Branford/ New Haven/ Madison/ Clinton area and would like to learn more about integrative solutions for your health care needs, I can help you get to the root of your symptoms by promoting health and healing on all levels – physically, emotionally and spiritually. Call (203) 453-0122 or CLICK HERE to schedule a consultation.

REFERENCES

“Insulin Resistance: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22206-insulin-resistance. 

Maurer, Richard. “Insulin Resistance: Disease or Superpower?” Naturopathic Doctor News and Review, Naturopathic Doctor News and Review, 20 Mar. 2019, https://ndnr.com/endocrinology/insulin-resistance-disease-or-superpower/. 

Vellinga, Jonathan. “Insulin Resistance, Diabetes, and Functional Medicine.” TCIM, TCIM, 20 July 2021, https://www.tcimedicine.com/post/insulin-resistance-diabetes-and-functional-medicine. 

Filed Under: Heart Disease, Type II Diabetes Tagged With: , , , , ,

10 FUNCTIONAL TESTS OFFERED BY DR. FISEL

April 4, 2022 by

Are you experiencing health symptoms that have left you feeling less than stellar?

You have tried everything you can think of to address your symptoms:

  • Practiced an over-the-counter medication or supplement regimen
  • Consulted with and obtained an allopathic doctor’s perspective
  • Made lifestyle adjustments related to nutrition, movement, sleep and stress management habits

After all of this, are you still struggling with your symptoms despite the fact that your tests have come back “normal”?

One important aspect of naturopathic medicine is the principle of “doctor as educator.” It is the cornerstone of naturopathic care. Naturopathic physicians teach their patients how to make conscious lifestyle choices, giving them the confidence they need to reach and maintain an optimal state of health.

As such, I want to help you get to the root of your symptoms. Following are ten additional lab tests – you might not have known about or considered – that we often utilize at our office. These tests can help you get a more complete picture of your health and also help you discern how your habits and symptoms are contributing to your overall wellness.

10 FUNCTIONAL TESTS OFFERED BY DR. MATTHEW FISEL ND:

  1. Cardiovascular – Testing done to screen for independent cardiovascular risk factors, such as hs-CRP, fibrinogen, and Lipoprotein(a). This test can give you a much more detailed assessment of your heart disease risk than just measuring cholesterol levels.
  2. Hormone – Detailed female hormone testing, including the DUTCH test, for women who are struggling with hormonal issues, and want more options than just a prescription for oral contraceptives.
  3. Glandular – Comprehensive adrenal and thyroid hormone testing, especially helpful for when you’re taking prescription thyroid medication, but still feel symptomatic.
  4. Environmental Toxicity – Heavy Metal testing, which can help to detect lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and other metals that have been linked to various neurological and autoimmune diseases.
  5. Environmental Allergens – Mycotoxin testing, to identify mold toxicity that doesn’t otherwise show up with typical allergy testing.
  6. Gut Microbiome – Comprehensive stool testing, like the GI Map or GI Effects Profile, which look at a number of factors that can have a negative impact on your digestive health, including parasites, bacterial infections, candida, and inflammatory markers, as well as looking at your healthy microbiome.
  7. Digestion – SIBO breath testing, particularly helpful for patients who have been diagnosed with IBS, or are experiencing persistent bloating that doesn’t seem to resolve with any treatments.
  8. Nutrition – Food sensitivity testing, which can help to identify foods that may be contributing to both digestive and system wide symptoms. 
  9. Metabolic – Genetic SNPs, such as MTHFR and COMT, which can identify predispositions to metabolic problems that may make you more prone to depression, anxiety, fatigue, and a number of other symptoms.
  10. Comprehensive Nutritional Testing – helps to help identify optimal levels of vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and amino acids. Most conventional testing is only looking to identify blatant deficiencies, but doesn’t take optimal ranges into account. 

Navigating the information available to you in terms of your health and wellness can be a daunting task. I work to support your wellness by utilizing all perspectives. If after exploring your health options, you are left with the feeling – THERE MUST BE SOMETHING MORE I CAN DO –let’s talk about the different tests I offer in my office and determine a course of action you might not have already considered.

If you live in the Guilford/ Branford/ New Haven/ Madison/ Clinton area and would like to learn more about integrative solutions for your health care needs, I can help you get to the root of your symptoms by promoting health and healing on all levels – physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Call (203) 453-0122 or CLICK HERE to schedule a consultation.

Filed Under: Allergies, Diet and Nutrition, Digestive Health, Environmental, Heart Disease, IBS, Metabolic Syndrome Tagged With: , , , ,

Could it be SIBO?

March 7, 2022 by

Could my symptoms be caused by small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)?

It’s normal to grow bacteria in your large intestine, in fact it’s healthy to grow bacteria in your large intestine.

But what about when that good bacteria moves along into the small intestine and starts to grow?

The results are less than optimal and often uncomfortable.

When this happens, when bacteria from the large intestine moves into and grows in the small intestine, SIBO can create the following symptoms (Madormo):

  • Bloating
  • Flatulence
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation

Frustratingly, these same symptoms might also indicative of other bowel disorders like, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), for instance. In fact, research shows that SIBO could be an underlying cause of IBS – and often times goes undiagnosed because of the similarities. (Ghoshal).

With persistent IBS, it might be time to take a look at the root cause – SIBO should be considered.

“SIBO sufferers are usually divided into one of three different categories: diarrhoea-dominant (D), constipation-dominant (C) or alternating variations of both.” (Lindemann)

Although there are several ways to determine if SIBO is at work in your gut, breath tests are the main form of diagnosis. Kits can be ordered through our office to measure hydrogen, methane, and hydrogen-sulfide gases – the gases produced in the small intestine that cause such discomfort.

If SIBO is present, treatment options are available. A general naturopathic approach might include the following:

  1. Anti-Microbial Combinations – including some form of: “Candibactin AR” and Candibactin BR” from Metagenics; Neem; “Biocidin and FC Cidal” from Biotics Research; and “Allimax Pro” by Allimax.  (Please consult your naturopathic or medical physician before starting an anti-microbial regimen).
  2. Dietary Changes – Limiting foods that promote fermentation in the lower gut is advisable. Generally, a low FODMAP diet, monitored by a physician, is recommended.
  3. Intestinal Repair – Once symptoms improve, repairing the intestines so that motility normalizes, hopefully decreases the likelihood of recurrence in the future.  

SIBO has a 40% chance of recurrence (Grace) complicated by fungal growth. Therefore, broad spectrum anti-microbial botanicals could provide benefits antibiotics do not. For this reason it always helpful to look at your symptoms from a whole health perspective.

Worried about whether or not you will ever feel relief from your intestinal discomfort? I would be happy to help you determine what underlying factors may be contributing to your symptoms.

If you live in the Guilford/ Branford/ New Haven/ Madison/ Clinton area and would like to learn more about SIBO and whether or not it’s affecting your overall health, Dr. Fisel is here to help. Call (203) 453-0122 or CLICK HERE to schedule a consultation.

REFERENCES

Bella Lindemann. “SIBO Series Part 1: Is Sibo the Hidden Cause of Your Ibs?” Bella Lindemann, Bella Lindemann, 30 Mar. 2021, https://bellalindemann.com/blog/sibo-series-part-1-hidden-cause-ibs.

Ghoshal, Uday C et al. “Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Bridge between Functional Organic Dichotomy.” Gut and liver vol. 11,2 (2017): 196-208. doi:10.5009/gnl16126

Grace E, Shaw C, Whelan K, Andreyev H. Review article: small intestinal bacterial overgrowth – prevalence, clinical features, current and developing diagnostic tests, and treatment. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics. 2013;38(7):674-688. doi:10.1111/apt.12456.

Madormo, Carrie. “SIBO: Symptoms, Treatment, Diet, and More.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 14 Sept. 2021, https://www.healthline.com/health/sibo.

Veloso, Hazel Galon. “FODMAP Diet: What You Need to Know.” Johns Hopkins Medicine, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/fodmap-diet-what-you-need-to-know.

Filed Under: Digestive Health, IBS, Inflammation Tagged With: , , , ,

Gut Health: Six Things to Do About Gut Health

January 3, 2022 by

Starting off the new year right can be tricky.

There are millions of messages in our everyday lives that tell us we have to look or act a certain way to be acceptable.

What we need are ways to be intentional about our health without becoming obsessed by unattainable weight loss goals.

One of the most important systems in our body is the gut microbiome that regulates the functionality of both our heart and brain.

To maintain optimal wellness (not just a focus on weight)

we must ensure the overall health of our gut.

Here are six things you can do to intentionally change your life by changing your gut:

  1. Think about your food. A diet based mostly on plants is optimal for your overall health. If at all possible, opt for food that is whole (with no added fat, sugar or sodium). Chew your food slowly and completely to aid in digestion. Consider fermented foods (probiotics) and fibrous foods (prebiotics).
  1. Listen to your body’s signals. Consider that food cravings are sometimes caused by an imbalance within your gut microbiome. Other signals like brain fog, stomach aches, fluctuations in weight, sleeplessness, a change in bathroom habits and acute inflammation can also be indicators of an imbalance.
  1. Consider your sleep schedule. Getting an adequate night’s sleep is an essential way for your gut microbiome to restore itself naturally. It is suggested that adults get at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
  1. Choose to drink more water. Water aids gut health naturally. It’s a simple and efficient way to repair your gut lining and the good bacteria in your intestines.
  1. Pay attention to your poop. Notice whether there are fluctuations in the way your body eliminates waste. Notice whether your stools are loose or hard. Track how often you eliminate and consider whether that is regular for your body or not.
  1. Get tested. As you become more aware of how your gut is interacting with other parts of your body, you might have questions. I can help you assess the health of your gut and how it might be impacting your life. Together we can look at food sensitivities, supplements and beneficial ways to nourish your gut microbiome. Schedule time with me here.

Whether you set goals or intentions for the new year, make it a priority to focus on the health of your gut microbiome. It could literally change your life.

If you live in the Guilford/ Branford/ New Haven/ Madison/ Clinton area and would like to learn more about the innovative programs Dr. Fisel has to offer, call (203) 453-0122 or CLICK HERE to schedule a consultation.

Filed Under: Diet and Nutrition, Digestive Health, Health and Wellness, Weight Loss Tagged With: , , , , ,

INSOMNIA: HOW TO STOP THE CYCLE OF SLEEP DEPRIVATION

December 7, 2021 by

You feel stressed during the day and it’s hard to quiet your mind at night.

Then you can’t sleep at night because there are too many things to worry about.

The next day you feel a bit depressed because you are tired and stressed out.

So starts the cycle of stress, sleep deprivation and depression. I can tell you why this might be happening and help you get yourself back into a healthy pattern of sleep.

Here are some common questions people ask about insomnia and sleep deprivation:

HOW MUCH SLEEP DO I NEED?

It is generally recommended that you get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Depending on your age you may need more or less. It’s always important to evaluate what works best for you as an individual. I can help you figure out what is most healthy for your body.

WHY IS SLEEP SO IMPORTANT?

There are so many benefits to getting a good night’s sleep. Here are just a few things that a restful night can provide you during the day:

  • A calm mind
  • Less anxiety and stress
  • Increased immunity
  • Improved mood
  • More energy
  • Weight management
  • Healthy human connections
  • Better memory

WHAT CAUSES INSOMNIA?

Insomnia can generally be thought of as a perpetuating cycle. Lack of sleep can be caused by behavioral factors, physiological factors, or a combination of both.

For instance, it is common for people to lose sleep over stress which can bring about forms of anxiety and depression. Anxiety and depression are known causes of insomnia.

Another contributing factor to insomnia is the presence of poor sleep habits.

I like to get to the root of, and address, the underlying symptoms of insomnia to alleviate your issues from a whole human perspective.

HOW DO WE GET TO THE ROOT CAUSE OF MY SLEEPLESSNESS?

In looking for the root cause of your insomnia, we can look at BEHAVIORAL FACTORS such as:

  • Daytime routines that contribute to stress
  • Eating habits that may lead to heartburn, indigestion or other internal issues
  • Movement habits that may cause pain
  • Lack of movement

We can also look at PHYSIOLOGICAL FACTORS such as:

  • Hormone issues like peri-menopause or menopause
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Sleep Apnea

It is important to reiterate that sleep disorders, like insomnia, are part of a cycle that perpetuates itself. Sometimes the contributing behavioral factors create physiological factors and vice versa.

WHAT ARE SOME NATURAL WAYS TO GET TO SLEEP?

As a naturopathic doctor, I want to help you find natural solutions for your insomnia. Here are a few general tips that you can try on your own:

  1. Manage your daily stress. This may mean letting go of work or nighttime commitments, delegating responsibilities, practicing mindfulness about what you say yes or no to, and even taking a pause in your day to meditate.
  2. Practice sleep hygiene. Make a conscious effort to slow your mind down before you go to bed. Turn off screens and put away reading materials at least an hour before sleep. Wind down by taking a warm bath, turning off overhead lights, and putting a few drops of lavender oil in a bedside diffuser.
  3. Think outside the box. Acupuncture is one of the services I provide that is a supplemental therapy beneficial to insomnia and other sleep issues. Another suggestion would be to try Integrative Therapeutics Cortisol Manager, a stress hormone stabilizer, I sell in my office.

I can help you find natural solutions and relief if you are suffering from insomnia, and help you get out of the cycle of sleep deprivation naturally.

If you live in the Guilford/ Branford/ New Haven/ Madison/ Clinton area and would like to learn more about the innovative programs Dr. Fisel has to offer, call (203) 453-0122 or CLICK HERE to schedule a consultation.

Filed Under: Acupuncture, Anxiety, Health and Wellness Tagged With: , , , , ,

FIVE WAYS TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM THIS ALLERGY/ COLD/ FLU SEASON

October 4, 2021 by

With kids back in school,

and adults going back to the office…

We are all noticing sniffly noses, congestion, scratchy eyes and throats.

WE ARE IN THE MIDST OF ALLERGY, COLD AND FLU SEASON!

And, after many months of isolated conditions, our immune systems have gone into overdrive. If you are like so many others, you might be wondering how to maintain your health this year. Use this list to be proactive during allergy/ cold and flu season:

FIVE WAYS TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

  1. Get some sleep! One of the major ways our immune systems weaken is when our bodies aren’t given the proper chance to recharge. Remember to practice sleep hygiene: turn off screens one hour before bed, dim the lights, use lavender in your diffuser, or take a warm bath. Avoid overworking and staying out late.

  1. Eat with your immune system in mind. The following foods are immune boosters: pumpkin seeds, mushrooms, broccoli, spinach, elderberry extract, astragalus root, ginger, turmeric and garlic. Avoid processed foods, alcohol, and any foods that might cause inflammation especially if you are sensitive to histamines.

  1. Supplement your nutrition when necessary. In winter months when natural sources of Vitamin C (fresh fruit) and D (the sun) are scarce, it’s essential to supplement your nutritional regimen with those vitamins and Zinc as well. We carry a number of herb/nutrient combinations at the office that can assist in boosting your immune function, as well as products to help lower your susceptibility to allergy symptoms.

  1. Make lifestyle choices that support immune health. Here are a few suggestions for daily living that will support your immunity as well:
  • Disinfect your environment by washing hands and surfaces in your home.
  • Take your shoes off at the door.
  • Avoid large indoor gatherings when possible.
  • Pay attention to indoor and outdoor air quality to eliminate allergens that might exacerbate symptoms.
  • Continue to focus on the basic pillars of health: movement, nutrition, hydration and sleep.

  1. Keep your nose and throat clear. Using a nasal and/ or throat spray daily is a helpful way to flush allergens and germs out of your system where they normally locate. You can also incorporate steam inhalation, using essential oils such as eucalyptus and thyme, which is a great way to naturally get rid of foreign microbes within the upper respiratory tract.

We know that our immune systems are facing down a barrage of irritants this allergy, cold and flu season. It’s time to get proactive with your health and make sure you have immune boosters on hand in your pantry and bathroom cabinet to make sure you remain as healthy as possible this fall/ winter. Dr. Fisel can help you find natural solutions and relief if you are battling with the symptoms of allergies, colds, or the flu. If you live in the Guilford/ Branford/ New Haven/ Madison/ Clinton area and would like to learn more about the innovative programs Dr. Fisel has to offer, call (203) 453-0122 or CLICK HERE to schedule a consultation.

RESOURCES:

https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/foods-that-boost-the-immune-system

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/what-immunologist-wants-you-to-know-about-surviving-cold-and-flu-season

Filed Under: Allergies, Health and Wellness, Immune Health Tagged With: , , , , , ,

THYROID DISEASE: YOU ARE NOT JUST YOUR TSH LEVELS

August 2, 2021 by


thyroid disease, metabolism, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, TSH levels, naturopathic medicine

YOUR THYROID IS OFTEN BLAMED FOR EVERYTHING FROM…


Fatigue
Weight Gain or Weight Loss
Dry Skin
Sensitivity to Cold or Heat
Constipation or Diarrhea
Muscle Aches
Brain Fog


It’s highly possible that you’ve experienced at least one if not multiple symptoms related to thyroid disease – maybe long before you thought to get it checked out.

That little butterfly shaped gland at the base of your throat regulates your hormones and sets the pace for your metabolism. When your thyroid is dysregulated, it can cause greater problems throughout your body.

To determine whether something is wrong with your thyroid, blood work is used to analyze the levels of TSH in your system. You may be diagnosed with HYPERTHYROIDISM, an overactive thyroid gland, or HYPOTHYROIDISM, an underactive thyroid gland

.


DO YOU FEEL LIKE YOU’VE BEEN REDUCED TO A NUMBER?

The most important thing to remember is…

YOU ARE NOT JUST YOUR TSH LEVELS.


While traditional medications targeting your T4 and T3 hormones can help to regulate the thyroid, you may test in a normal range and still feel off.

In other words, you look good on paper but as you listen to your body you know traditional therapies are not getting to the root of why you continue to feel unwell.

It happens all the time. We address overt symptoms with medication but neglect the underlying issues which can be just as important to wellness.


I am here to help if you are thinking, “My doctor says my TSH levels are within a healthy range but I still don’t feel well…” The thyroid doesn’t exist in a vacuum, and is often upregulating or downregulating in response to other metabolic factors, so we don’t want to get caught up in micromanaging the numbers!

Let’s look at three ways you can optimize your health, by making lifestyle changes, to alleviate some of the symptoms you might be experiencing as a result of thyroid disease – regardless of your TSH numbers.


NUTRITION: Thyroid disease can be caused by an autoimmune response and might be exacerbated by inflammation in the body. One of the best ways to eliminate inflammation – which is key – is by focusing on your nutrition.

TRY: Fruits, vegetables, proteins (especially fish), healthy fats, WATER, nutritional supplements as recommended by your naturopathic doctor

AVOID: Added sugar, alcohol, dairy, excess gluten


STRESS MANAGEMENT: Depression is both a contributor and a result of thyroid disease. Therefore, it is important to go beyond your TSH level numbers and also address your mental health needs.

TRY: journaling, exercise, sleep hygiene, seeking professional support

AVOID: alcohol, excessive sleep, isolation


PHYSICAL MEDICINE: Naturopathic medicine addresses your mind, body and spirit in compliment to conventional medical approaches.

TRY: Hot/ Cold therapy (SOURCE), adjustments to the spine, acupuncture

AVOID: Settling for a one size fits all diagnosis


When you get your thyroid checked, you might feel reduced to a TSH level number…but that doesn’t have to be the end of the story. There are empowering choices you can make to your lifestyle that will leave you feeling as healthy as your numbers say you are.

Dr. Fisel can help you find relief if you are battling with thyroid disease. If you live in the Guilford/ Branford/ New Haven/ Madison/ Clinton area and would like to learn more about the innovative programs Dr. Fisel has to offer, call (203) 453-0122 or CLICK HERE to schedule your consultation.


RESOURCES:
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: The Impact of Nutrition

Filed Under: Diet and Nutrition, Inflammation, Uncategorized, Weight Loss Tagged With: , , ,

Sometimes I Hate My Guts: Alleviating IBS Symptoms

May 4, 2021 by
IBS, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, stomach pain, gut health, Dr. Matt Fisel

We had plans to go on a long hike.

I chose my breakfast carefully. I didn’t want to rock the boat with any foods that might upset my stomach. I thought I had covered all of the bases, but a mile in I noticed the usual symptoms:

bloating, gassiness, and then…

my bowels started to activate.

I knew from experience this was not going to go well.

Maybe you’ve had your own bout, in public or private, with cramping, constipation or a sudden onset of diarrhea.

And…your doctor just could not tell you WHY.

Patients who have been categorized with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) say,

“Dr. Fisel…I was diagnosed with IBS months ago, and was prescribed medication that doesn’t seem to be working. Are there natural ways to find relief from my IBS?”

Unfortunately, IBS tends to be a catchall for those unexplainable symptoms in the intestines, appearing “normal” when tested. Your doctor may have ruled out cancer, colitis, etc., but wasn’t able to specifically answer the question:

WHY ARE MY GUTS HOLDING ME HOSTAGE?

We help patients find answers using an integrative approach that assesses their diagnosis and also gets to the root cause(s) of their underlying symptoms.

HERE’S THREE THINGS WE LOOK AT, from a naturopathic perspective, to understand more about your personal condition and why your symptoms might be persistent:

GUT SYSTEM HEALTH: We can do additional stool, breath, and/or blood testing to identify more definitive causes of IBS (small intestine bacterial overgrowth – SIBO, microbial overgrowths, enzyme deficiencies, food sensitivities, functional bowel problems, leaky gut syndrome).

Also, a number of treatments we can incorporate to improve the FUNCTION of the gut, along with promoting intestinal repair (probiotics, digestive enzymes, intestinal healing herbs and nutrients).

FOOD SENSITIVITIES: We will sometimes do elimination diets or cleansing protocols that often help people identify food triggers within their diets.

Cutting back on FODMAP foods, or following the Specific Carbohydrate Diet, can often help to give the intestines a rest allowing the intestinal tract to repair.

STRESS MANAGEMENT: Stress relief is key. At the very basic level we want to assess your day-to-day life and look at your habits.

You could start monitoring yourself by journaling about the foods you eat, how much sleep you’re getting, how you are moving your body – and of course how it makes you feel. Notice the trends.

Naturopathic medicine is an integrative approach to health care. Where western medicine leaves off, a Naturopathic Doctor helps patients get to the root of uncomfortable symptoms.

Dr. Fisel is here to help you get your life back after an IBS diagnosis and to help you feel relief from your symptoms. Please call (203) 453-0122 or CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment, today.

NEW PATIENT FREE 15 MINUTE CONSULATION: Dr. Fisel promotes health and healing on all levels, physically, emotionally and spiritually. If you live in the Guilford/ Branford/ New Haven/ Madison/ Clinton area and would like to learn more about the innovative programs Dr. Fisel has to offer, call (203) 453-0122 or CLICK HERE to schedule your free 15 minute consultation.

Filed Under: Digestive Health, IBS Tagged With: , , , ,

Recognizing Lyme Disease and Related Infections

April 18, 2012 by

Although we live in a state where Lyme disease is endemic, the diagnosis and treatment of this condition continues to be controversial. Unfortunately, the political landscape surrounding Lyme disease has steered many doctors away from treating it altogether, putting many patients at risk for developing long-term complications. It’s not uncommon for me to see patients who have been told that their testing for Lyme disease and other co-infections is negative, so therefore there is no possible way that these infections can be responsible for their symptoms. This information can be extremely misleading, since the validity of testing is dependent on what stage of the disease they are performed. Doctors who are well informed about Lyme will typically treat based on clinical criteria (outlined by the CDC), with the argument being that the risk of putting uninfected individuals on antibiotics is not outweighed by the risk of long-term Lyme complications. [Read more…]

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