Should Your Child Get Acupuncture?

Acupuncture For Kids

Most kids, as well as a lot of adults, are afraid of needles. So the pairing of Acupuncture and kids might not be an obvious one. However, more and more parents are seeking alternative methods of treatment for their children, because our conventional medical system is faltering a bit. Pharmaceuticals are proving to be more harmful than beneficial for many people, especially kids, whose brains and bodies aren’t yet fully developed.

Acupuncture is gaining popularity among pediatrics. There are Licensed Acupuncturists who specialize in treating children and they are in high demand. These Pediatric Acupuncturists are helping children where others can’t and for many, it is lifesaving.

Pediatric Acupuncture is commonly known as shonishin and it rarely uses needles. Instead, this form of acupuncture utilizes the practitioners’ hands and rounded tools to stimulate the acupoints of the child. The practitioner will gently and rhythmically rub, tap and press the skin to produce gentle stimulation sensations. Because children process things more quickly and with fewer blockages, the sessions can be shorter and may be needed less frequently.

Parents are turning to Acupuncture because it provides a safe resolution of illness, while also preventing future illnesses. Acupuncture and acupressure stimulate the body’s ability to restore and heal itself. Our bodies are fully capable of fighting off disease and healing injuries when the right tools are provided. Acupuncture is that right tool that not only stimulates the immune system, but also relaxes the nervous system and regulates the digestive and hormonal systems. All of these things need to be in balance for the body to heal.

Many times parents are told by doctors that what their child is experiencing is just “a phase” and he or she “will grow out of it.” In many ways, this is a way of ignoring the real issues at hand. Conventional medicine doesn’t work holistically, addressing the whole body, and parents are usually sent to a dozen different specialists who never really coordinate to find the best treatment for the child. This becomes frustrating and financially taxing for the parent, not to mention how the child feels. This is where Acupuncture excels. A single Acupuncture treatment can address pain, anxiety, insomnia and digestive issues all at the same time.

Not only is Acupuncture more cost effective when it comes to treating children, but it also is a more logical approach. Why add in the stress of seeing multiple doctors when you can have everything addressed by just one? If your child is suffering from pain, asthma, ADHD or any other type of ailment, Acupuncture might hold the answer. 

Call our office to learn more about Acupuncture, our Licensed Practitioners, Alice Honican and Dr. Kiwon Han, and the new patient session and packages we offer. 

 

Natural Alternatives for Boosting Brain Power

By Cristina McMullen, Certified Wellness Coach, Bio-Energetic Practitioner

Summer is sadly coming to an end, which means our kiddos are going to be back in the classroom before we know it. And because of this, many of us are looking for supplements that can help our kids stay better focused during those long school days. Thankfully, we’ve got some suggestions and supplements that can help!

DIET

Before I get into supplements that can help with focus and attention, I want to stress just how important a child’s diet is to their mental functioning. You can put your child on every single supplement on this list, but if they are still eating certain things that negatively impact their nervous system, they will still be struggling. Probably the biggest offenders include sugars and artificial dyes. Regularly consuming sugar and the other 200 names that the food industry uses for sugar has been shown to not only decrease cognitive function that results in lower test scores in children but that it also shrinks the brain! Artificial dyes, especially red 40, have been linked to hyperactivity and poor focus. Luckily, it is getting a little easier to find foods colored with natural dyes like beet and turmeric powder. This way our kiddos don’t feel like they are missing out on “fun foods.” Food sensitivities may actually have a stimulating effect to some and can result in ADD/ADHD type symptoms. While some common offenders include gluten and dairy, everyone is going to have their own list of food sensitivities that will affect them differently. One little trick parents can do is pay attention not only to their behavior after eating certain foods, but to look and see if their ears get red. Many times, that is an indication that something they ate recently is negatively affecting them.

FISH OILS

Fish oil supplements contain two very important omega 3 oils: EPA and DHA. We all need adequate amounts of these omegas because they are extremely important for brain development and function. Starting at the time of conception, DHA is especially important for the growth and development of the brain. EPA can be helpful for childhood behavior, academic performance, attention, focus, and reducing aggression. And, while we would ideally be getting our omegas from our diet in the form of wild caught fish and some nuts and seeds like chia and flax, most of us are not getting the 3-4 servings a week that we would need to meet our nutritional needs. Thankfully, we have a few options. My kid’s personal favorite is the Omegavail citrus sorbet and I have literally caught my litle one climbing into the fridge to get more of the smoothie-like goodness. If textures or flavors is an issue, we have a very concentrated liquid that can be mixed into smoothies or juices. If your older kiddos can swallow, I would highly recommend Mega Marine. It’s a bit smaller than your typically fish oil capsule and has some added anti-inflammatory benefit with extra SPMs (specialized pro-resolving mediators).

B VITAMINS

B vitamins, especially the methylated forms of B12, Folate (B9), and B6 (P5P) are essential for proper functioning of the brain and nerve cells. They play a role in neurotransmitter function, which enhances our ability to reason and think logically. They also assist in the production of myelin, which helps to protect our nerves and allows for electrical impulses to transmit quickly and more efficiently along the nerve cells. Depending on your child’s preference, we have topical creams, sprays, liquids, and even casules that can give them the B vitamins that their body needs.

MAGNESIUM

Magnesium has been nicknamed the “master mineral” and is known to have anti-stress, anti-anxiety, anti-depressive, and neuroprotective properties. Magnesium is very important for the brain, but unfortunately most forms of magnesium cannot cross the blood-brain barrier. Magnesium Threonate can! Studies have shown that this specific form of magnesium increases neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to change and grow), which is fundamental for our ability to learn, and can even increase a protein (BDNF) that stimulates the production of new brain cells! Those are definitely things our little ones brains need to be doing in order to learn and retain all sorts of new information!

NDF FOCUS

This great tasting liquid is way more than just a another focus supplement. Yes, it contains herbs like solomons seal, which is very restorative to mental vitality and can nourish the mind, but my favorite ingredients in this blend include the adaptogenic herbs eleuthero and schizandra. Adaptogens support our adrenal glands, which are resposible for our body’s “fight or flight” stress response. This can be super helpful for so many kiddos, especially when they may start to feel stressed out over schoolwork or a difficult lesson.

COGNITIVE BALANCE

This supplement aids in the production and processing of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine plays an important role in many brain functions, including learning and concentration, behavior, motor activity, sleep, and mood. It is a capsule, but has an orange flavor to the powder inside and can be opened up and mixed with applesauce or stirred into a smoothie or drink.

BRAIN POWER

This fabulous spray is made up of nanstructured amino acids along with homeopathics to help restore cell signaling in the brain. This results in improved focus, mental clarity, and memory. It can be taken alone or paired with another spray, Peace and Calming, to help with more ADD/ADHD type symptoms.

Call or stop by our Nutrition Shop to talk to a knowledgeable staff member about the best option for your child. Here’s to a successful school year!

Shedding Light On Lyme Disease

By Mariela Amiri, Traditional Naturopath & Patient Coordinator

 

May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month, so I want to shed a little light on this all-too-common illness, as well as some of the misinformation surrounding it. Lyme disease is the fastest growing infectious disease in the world. There are more than 400,000 new recorded cases in the United States every year, and many researchers estimate numbers may be even higher due to the fact that many people are infected and do not know about it or do not report it. 

 

Unfortunately, most doctors are not trained to recognize or treat Lyme disease. Additionally, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), does not acknowledge the fact that this disease can become chronic, despite much evidence.

 

Lyme disease is primarily transmitted by insect bites. However, there is substantial research that it can be spread through other methods. Lyme disease is an inflammatory condition created by spirochete bacterias. These slow growing bacterias infect and wreak havoc on the immune system. The infection can persist in the body for years after transmission, causing systemic inflammation and a host of other problems. 

 

The symptom presentation varies from person to person and can mimic various conditions, including Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, ALS, Lupus, Alzheimer’s, depression, arthritis and Fibromyalgia. For this reason and others, Lyme disease remains a misdiagnosed and undiagnosed disease. Additionally, conventional diagnostic testing methods are outdated and not successful at diagnosing with accuracy.

 

There are many ways to treat and support a person suffering from Lyme Disease. One-size-fits-all treatments aren’t successful with this complicated infection. Oftentimes, people with Lyme also suffer from other conditions. Their immune systems are so weakened by these spirochetes that other viruses, parasites, fungal infections, histamine issues, and heavy metal toxicities have a chance to thrive in such a poor health environment. Lyme disease patients see improvements in their well being when they take a whole body healing approach, rather than just treating symptoms. Healing takes place when the inner terrain is rebuilt and restored, because Lyme pathogens can’t flourish in a healthy immune system. 

 

Natural antimicrobials, homeopathic remedies, supplements and nutritional support are all extremely effective in bringing the body back to balance without any long-term unwanted side effects. This is the safest way to treat and support those suffering from this spirochetes infection. Additionally, incorporating supporting detox therapies such as far-infrared sauna, ozone treatments, acupuncture, ionic foot baths, massage, lymphatic treatments, RIFE,  epsom salt baths and dry brushing can encourage and speed up the healing process. Sleep, sunshine, exercise and meditation/prayer are also effective. Depending on the individual, it can take a few months to a few years to regain optimal health. 

 

Here at Longevity Health Center, we are trained to holistically support those suffering from Lyme Disease. Our highly skilled Naturopaths and Homeopathic Practitioners will tailor a personalized protocol to help detoxify spirochetes bacteria, support the immune system, and lower inflammation. Additionally, we have in-house detox therapies for faster healing.  Give us a call at 770-642-4646 to learn more. 

Mold Sensitivity: How This Harmful Toxin Could Be Impacting Your Health

By Anna Powers, ND, Bioenergetic Practitioner

Mold is part of the cleanup crew of life. It helps break down debris, so it can return to the earth.
To grow, mold needs high humidity and a cellulose-based fuel source such as wood, plants or sheetrock. Mold spores can be tracked into our homes from shoes, clothing, pets, plants, and used furniture to name a few. High humidity enables the spores to proliferate on walls, furniture and carpets.

While the presence of mold in a home can be simply a nuisance to some, it can create significant health issues for others. About 25% of the population is allergic to mold and/or lacks the ability to process it within their bodies. That is why one member of the family can be fine and another member of the family can become extremely ill.

In sensitive individuals, mold exposure can cause immune suppression, eye irritation, inflammation, wheezing, coughing, asthma, sinusitis, headaches, tinnitus, dizziness, nausea, poor memory, digestive issues, fibromyalgia, joint pain, fatigue, brain fog, insomnia, numbness, tingling, rashes, lethargy, rapid weight gain, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and more.
Of course, mold is not the only cause of these symptoms.

Mold spores enter the body through the sinuses or lungs, which provide a moist environment to breed. In 1999, Mayo Clinic researchers studied 210 patients with chronic sinusitis and discovered fungus in 96% of the patients’ mucus. They identified a total of 40 different kinds of fungi in these patients, with an average of 2.7 kinds per patient.

Once a patient is removed from a toxic mold environment, the detoxification process requires time and patience. It typically involves supporting the nervous system and vagal system, opening the body’s detoxification pathways such as the lymph, liver, and kidneys, and adding binders to escort the mold and mycotoxins out of the body.

The best way to prevent mold growing in your living spaces is to keep the humidity below 50% and clean your home regularly. A humidity meter can be purchased to monitor levels. If humidity is above 50%, it’s best to get a whole house dehumidifier, or a portable one for affordability. If a leak is found, it needs to be fixed immediately.

If mold is found in porous areas of your home, whatever you do, do NOT bleach it! Bleach only kills mold on non-porous surfaces such as a stainless steel sink. Since bleach is over 90% water, spraying bleach on a porous surface, such as drywall, only lightens the mold and evaporates it on the surface. It is still able to saturate the sheetrock underneath with water, enabling the mold “roots” to proliferate. In addition, bleach is thought to cause mold to release mycotoxins, which can be much more toxic than mold itself. Mycotoxins attach to dust particles that are carried throughout the home and create a much bigger problem.

We suggest using EC3 Mold Spray because it works by disrupting the chitin shell of the mold spore so that it is non-viable and cannot proliferate. It doesn’t clean mold or stain, but it does reduce its toxic impact.

If you suspect mold growth in your home, you need to remediate a leak, or you want to clean the air ducts, it’s optimal to use a professional service who understands the physiological impact of mold and can help you determine if there is a mold problem and how to remediate it safely. Here are some questions to ask:

  • How long have you been in business?
  • Do you use negative pressure containment around the contaminated area?
  • How do you ensure workers in the contaminated area do not spread mold through the rest of the house?
  • Do you use an air scrubber after mold is removed?
  • Do you use a third-party company to perform before and after air quality tests?
  • Do you offer a warranty?
  • Do you have three customers I can speak with?

If you suspect mold is impacting your health, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with one of Longevity’s knowledgeable and experienced bioenergetic practitioners. Our team can help you identify if mold or other toxins are burdening your system, and help you with a customized detoxification protocol. Learn more at LongevityHealth.com.

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Environmental Illness and Total Body Burden

By Janelle Bertler, Traditional Naturopath

 

It is true that our bodies have a natural detoxification system. Yet, our world is more toxic today than the times our great grandparents lived in and our bodies just can’t keep up!

 Let me introduce you to the idea of the total body burden. We liken the body to a bucket. It can only hold so much! When toxin load comes in, the body does an excellent job of shuttling the toxins out of the blood in an attempt to protect the vital organs. It doesn’t matter what type of toxin it is. Either it is processed for excretion and/or stored in the cells. Depending upon the balance between the ingress of toxin load and the excretion through the body’s detoxification abilities we can either feel healthy or become chronically ill. 

 The saying in alternative health is, “Our genetics loads the gun and the environment pulls the trigger”. Environmental illness impacts everyone differently. Some people have genes that support healthy detoxification. Others have genes that can put them at a slight to moderate deficit. Many people have heard of the MTHFR gene and a few may have even heard of the HLA-DR genes. In a non-toxic environment everyone’s systems are going to function adequately enough to keep our total body burden relatively moderated. You can even take people without the above gene changes and put them in an unhealthy environment and their body’s detoxification system will be able to keep up with the greater ingress of toxin load. Yet, you take someone with the above gene snips, put them in the same unhealthy environment and the body’s balance of ingress vs. excretion/elimination becomes unbalanced. The ingress becomes too much for their natural detoxification systems. This is why you can put a family of 4 in a moldy house and 1 to 2 out of the 4 will get sick. 

 Toxin load can come from the environment in some very unexpected places. There are the usual suspects that most people know about: Roundup, lead paint, lead pipes, car exhaust, tap water, house cleaning chemicals, etc. but the most damaging toxins come in the form most people don’t even think about. Do you ever wonder what kind of microorganisms that biting bugs carry? Have you ever heard about the damaging effects of mold toxins and their harmful off-gassing? Do you have silver fillings, that unbeknownst to you leach heavy metals with every bite you take or every sip of hot liquid? Have you ever wondered how EMF’s & RF impede our body’s electrical communication system? All of these things found in our environment increase our total body burden, increasing the likelihood that our health will diminish over time potentially leading to chronic illness.

 Conventional medicine used to call it multiple chemical sensitivity but attendees at the World Health Organization have now updated it to “Idiopathic environmental intolerance” (IEI). Conventional medicine defines IEI as “a subjective illness marked by recurrent, nonspecific symptoms attributed to low levels of chemical, biologic, or physical agents. These symptoms occur in the absence of consistent objective diagnostic physical findings or laboratory tests that define an illness. Many experiments and observational studies consistently identify psychopathology in patients with IEI.” In layman’s terms, since the illness can create symptomatology at low thresholds with inconsistent diagnostic ability/lab tests, conventional medicine assumes that the mental health maladies that concur with this illness are the cause. People are told they are crazy!

 Causes:

Conventional medicine claims Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance to be of unknown cause. It is often challenging to diagnose and treat since there is no specific test for diagnosis. Although, in Naturopathic health we understand that IEI is complex and multifactorial. Environmental exposure to toxins, genetics, chronic infections, stress, dysbiosis, and other factors such as poor nutrition and sensitivity to EMF’s may all play a role in the development. Some people may be more susceptible to environmental illness due to genetic factors. Others may develop the condition due to exposure to certain chemicals or a combination of chemicals over time.

 

  • Air fresheners/deodorizers
  • Scented laundry soap/products
  • Perfume/cologne
  • Pesticides
  • Allergens
  • Mold
  • Sensitivity to electromagnetic fields 
  • Food sensitivities
  • Exposure to chemicals/pollutants
  • New carpet &/or paint
  • New furniture 
  • Heavy metals
  • Renovation materials
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Pesticides or bug sprays
  • Smoke 
  • Nail polishes and polish removers
  • Chlorinated water
  • Medications 
  • Personal care products, like lotions or hairspray

The amount of man-made chemicals in our environment is steadily rising and so is the number of people becoming chronically ill because of them. One study provided evidence that IEI is widespread and increasing in the US population. They reported a prevalence of 12.8% of the population medically diagnosed and 25.9% self-reported. While newer estimates suggest that up to 33% of the population have some level of chemical sensitivities.

Symptoms:

IEI has the potential to cause such a wide range of symptoms, possibly affecting every organ system in the body. Symptoms can also vary widely between individuals. When you first start experiencing symptoms, you might brush them off or attribute them to something else entirely! Maybe it’s such a slow steady decline that you don’t notice? Or maybe you attribute it to the normal process of aging? But these responses can escalate over time.

Common symptoms of environmental illness include:

 

  • Rashes/Dermatitis/Skin irritation
  • Joint pain 
  • Dizziness & Nausea 
  • Fatigue 
  • Headaches 
  • Gut issues  
  • Blood pressure changes 
  • Asthma attacks & Breathing difficulties
  • Cognitive impairment such as: Brain fog, Memory loss, Difficulty concentration or recalling words 
  • Mood changes: Anxiety & Depression 
  • Panic attacks &/or Heart Palpitations
  • Hormone disorders 
  • Fainting 
  • Poor circulation 
  • Bleeding in your extremities or on your skin 
  • Food and environmental allergies
  • Increased incidence of static shock
  • Respiratory issues
  • Muscle and Joint pain

For some, reactions to the above causes could lead to someone unable to function normally. According to a survey conducted by the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008, 76.0% of people with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS) reported that their health problems substantially limit one or more major life activities: seeing, hearing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, lifting, bending, speaking, breathing, learning, reading, concentrating, thinking, communicating, or working. Can you imagine if fragranced products restricted your access in society? 58.6% of individuals with MCS are unable to use public restrooms that have an air freshener, deodorizer, or scented product; 55.2% are unable to wash their hands in a public place if the soap is fragranced; 63.4% enter a business but then want to leave as quickly as possible due to a fragranced product; and 70.3% have been prevented from going someplace because of the presence of a fragranced product that would make them sick.

Associated Factors:

There are several associated issues with Environmental Illness, some of which include:

  1. Social isolation: People with MCS may become isolated from society because they are unable to tolerate the chemicals found in public places like schools, malls, and restaurants.
  2. Employment difficulties: MCS can make it challenging for individuals to find and maintain employment due to their sensitivity to common workplace chemicals.
  3. Financial strain: People with MCS often need to spend more money on specialized products and treatments, which can put a significant financial strain on them and their families.
  4. Difficulty accessing healthcare: Many healthcare providers are not familiar with MCS and may dismiss patients’ symptoms, which can make it challenging for people with MCS to get the care they need.
  5. Limitations on daily activities: MCS can limit people’s ability to engage in everyday activities like going to the grocery store, attending social events, or even leaving their homes.

 Comorbidities:

There are several comorbidities or conditions that are commonly associated with Environmental Illness. The presence of one or more of these conditions may increase the likelihood of developing Environmental Illness, and may also make it more difficult to manage symptoms.

  1. Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain and tenderness in the body. It is often accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, and mood disorders, and is commonly seen in people with MCS.
  2. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): CFS is a condition that causes extreme fatigue that is not alleviated by rest. It is also commonly associated with MCS and often shares similar symptoms.
  3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS is a common digestive disorder that causes symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. It is frequently seen in people with MCS, and may be triggered by exposure to certain chemicals.
  4. Chronic Pain: Many people with MCS also experience chronic pain, which may be related to fibromyalgia or other underlying conditions.
  5. Asthma: Environmental triggers and in some cases, exposure to chemicals can exacerbate asthma symptoms. There is also growing evidence to suggest that exposure to air pollution, tobacco smoke, certain allergens, environmental toxins and other irritants contribute to the development of asthma.  
  6. Fragrance Sensitivities: People are more likely to develop fragrance sensitivity as a result of ongoing exposure to a wide range of environmental toxins and irritants.
  7. Mental health problems: Living with a chronic condition can cause mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Several factors play into this with the top offenders being stress, frustration, lack of answers, and a lack of being believed that something is really wrong.

Practical Steps:

Dealing with environmental illness can be challenging, but there are several practical steps that individuals can take to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. 

  1. Identify and avoid triggers: One of the most important steps in managing environmental illness is to identify the specific triggers that are causing symptoms. Once triggers have been identified, it is important to take steps to avoid them as much as possible. This may involve making changes to the home environment.
  2. Improve indoor air quality: Indoor air pollution can be a major trigger for environmental illness. Improving indoor air quality can involve a variety of steps, such as using HEPA air filters, maintaining regular cleaning, using non-toxic cleaning products, and maintaining good ventilation. Keeping indoor humidity levels low can also help prevent the growth of mold, which can be a common trigger for environmental illness.
  3. Reduce exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs): EMFs are a type of environmental trigger that can be particularly challenging to avoid, as they are present in many everyday devices such as cell phones, computers, and microwaves. However, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce exposure, such as using wired connections instead of Wi-Fi, turning off devices when not in use, and keeping cell phones and other electronic devices away from the body.
  4. Practice stress management: Stress can exacerbate symptoms of environmental illness, so it is important to practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Getting regular exercise and adequate sleep can also help reduce stress levels.
  5. Healthy Diet: Eating a whole foods diet focusing on foods with nutrient density as well as avoiding inflammatory foods, creates a diet that assist the body in healing. 
  6. Some people may also benefit from cognitive-behavioral therapy or other forms of counseling to help them cope with the emotional and psychological impact of environmental illness.
  7. Work with a healthcare provider: Finally, it is important to work closely with a healthcare provider who is familiar with environmental illness and can provide guidance on managing symptoms. 

 Dealing with environmental illness requires a practitioner that is right for you, as well as a combination of lifestyle changes and environmental modifications. It is possible to improve quality of life! You too can become highly health resilient again! We here at Longevity Health Center understand that health is multifactorial, and we can support you in your healing journey through any environmental illness. If you find that the above information sounds a lot like you or a loved one, we would be honored to be your support team. Hope this finds you when you might need it most. Let it be your hope till you can see your own. 

 

Announcing Our Retirement: Reflecting on 45 Years of Practice & Continuing the Longevity Mission 

By Dr. Seneca & Kay Anderson, Longevity Founders 

 

We write to you today to officially announce our retirement at the end of May. This year we will turn 77 and 80 years old respectively (guess which one is oldest), and we feel that the time has come to live full-time at our home in the mountains of North Carolina. We have plenty of children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, projects, a garden, and animals to keep us busy in the days ahead! 

It’s hard to believe that 2023 marks 45 years since our health practice began! When we first started out, we had no idea that our vision for a natural health care center would flourish to the extent that it has. At that time, there was only one Naturopath in practice in the entire Atlanta area. A statutory definition of Naturopathy existed in the Georgia code, left over from a naturopathic board that had been eliminated due to a coordinated campaign by the Georgia Medical Association.

I, my wife Kay (pregnant with #6), along with our 5 children moved to the Atlanta area from Boston, where I had completed my acupuncture training, only to discover that there was no licensing available for acupuncturists in the state of Georgia. In fact, acupuncture was generally unheard of, as opposed to chiropractic, which was already well established due to the presence of Life Chiropractic College in Marietta. 

In 1978 I completed my Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine, and later went on to earn a Doctorate in Oriental Medicine. Kay and I opened our first practice in  September, 1978, the East West Center. We offered acupuncture, nutritional consultation, massage therapy, and various classes on natural healing and cooking. I, along with several like-minded patients made repeated attempts to introduce acupuncture into the Georgia legislature, but it was always firmly resisted by the medical association and its big pharma backers. In fact, it wasn’t until the late 1990’s that an article in a prestigious journal criticizing the way Georgia left acupuncture unregulated embarrassed the legislature to pass the identical legislation which they had previously failed to pass.

While working for acupuncture legislation, we attempted to conform our practice to the statutory definition of naturopathy, which reads something like: the diagnosis and treatment of human illness with the use of air, light, heat and cold, utilizing such substances, nutritional, as naturally required by the human body, excluding drugs, surgery and radiation.

Our practice thrived, but eventually I was charged with practicing medicine without a license. I argued that I wasn’t practicing medicine. I do not utilize drugs or surgery, but practice naturopathy

according to the statutory definition. By the grace of God, Judge Curtis Tillman ruled that I could continue my practice under supervision, and that the supervision could be provided by an MD, DO, or DC. This has effectively established a precedent which has allowed for other naturopaths to practice in Georgia. So much headway has been made in the state of Georgia and across the country over the last few decades, and as I write this, the future of natural healing looks bright indeed! 

As we look back on the last 45 years, we are grateful and humbled by the many thousands of people  who trusted us to guide them and their families on a path to better health. And, of course, we are especially thankful for all of the caring professionals who have come alongside us to help achieve positive results for so many patients. To God be all the glory! He has sustained us and upheld us all these years! We know that we are just vessels, and He is the Great Physician! 

As we prepare to retire, we are so proud to pass the torch into the capable hands of our daughter, Dr. Alice Honican, who has been a Lead Practitioner at Longevity for nearly two decades, as well as our daughter, Melina Smith, who has faithfully served as Director of Operations for more than 35 years. Alice is a skillful Acupuncturist, Herbalist, and gifted student (She recently completed her Doctorate in Oriental Medicine!), and it makes us so proud to watch her serve her patients with so much knowledge, care, and compassion. 

We are also so confident in the knowledgeable, skilled, and caring practitioners, therapists, and staff members who make up the Longevity team. Christina McMullen. ND, joined us some 15 years ago, and is like another daughter to us. As a young mother of four, she is particularly skillful at working with children. Anna Powers, ND, joined Longevity some 6 years ago. Anna was already an accomplished tester and neurofeedback practitioner, and we have all benefited from her warm disposition, humor, and compassion. While working at my side for the past ten years, my personal Patient Coordinator, Maria Jones, ND, also earned Certifications as a Master Herbalist, Holistic Health Practitioner, and Traditional Naturopath and she is now stepping into the practitioner role herself. Maria often knows what I’m thinking during a patient evaluation before I can even say it! 

To all our loyal and faithful patients over the years, we say a huge thank you. You’ll never know how much it means to our family and staff that you have trusted us with your health, and hopefully will continue to do so. We know that the Longevity mission to Love God and Serve People will be carried out for generations to come. We wish you abundant health in mind, body, and spirit! 

Sincerely,

Doc & Kay 

5 Things You May Not Know About Long Covid

By Dr. Alice Honican, ND, Bio-Energetic Practitioner, Licensed Acupuncturist

 

Some people are able to bounce back quickly from Covid-19, but many others are experiencing ongoing symptoms, even several months or years after they first tested positive for the virus. Here at Longevity, not a day goes by that we don’t hear from or meet with a patient who is dealing with long-term issues after a Covid infection. 

Post-Covid conditions are referred to by many names, such as Post-Covid Conditions, Post Acute Covid, Chronic Covid, and Long Covid. Some of the most common issues include chronic fatigue/fibromyalgia, endocrine dysfunction, brain fog, and hair loss. 

Covid-19 may be a relatively new virus, but post-viral syndromes are nothing new. Dr. Anderson and I, along with our team of Bioenergetic Practitioners, have been treating these types of chronic infections our entire careers. 

 

If you or a loved one  are navigating Long Covid, here are five things you may not know, and some holistic solutions to restore your vitality and quality of life soon. 

 

  1. Long Covid symptoms can be due to the reactivation of other dormant viruses in the system. 

All of us have dormant viruses in our system. The most common include those in the Herpes family, such as shingles, Simplex I (fever blisters), Epstein Barr/Mono, and Cytomegalovirus. These common infections are reactivated by stress, and bring their own set of symptoms, such as painful rashes, cold sores, and extreme fatigue. Over the last couple years, we’ve observed that many of our patients are dealing with the symptoms of these reactivated viruses long after they fight off Covid. 

 

  1. Covid takes a massive toll on cellular function. 

Covid infections are extremely damaging to the mitochondria, or powerhouse of the cells. Decreased mitochondrial function means less cellular energy, resulting in overall fatigue, muscle weakness, and brain fog. The best way to combat cellular damage and restore healthy function is with high-powered antioxidants, such as Vitamins C, E, Selenium, Manganese, Glutathione, COQ10, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, and Zinc. We can assess cellular function and pinpoint specific antioxidant deficiencies in your system so you can restore balance and get your energy back! 

 

  1. Long Covid targets the systems of the body that are already most compromised. 

We’ve noticed that the Covid-19 virus seems to impact people where they are weakest. If they had pre-existing endocrine issues, Covid may impact their thyroid, causing long-term hair loss, low energy, or metabolism issues. If they were already at risk or dealing with cardiovascular dysfunction, they may experience hypertension or blood clotting after a Covid infection. 

 

  1. Detoxification is your secret weapon! 

We’ve seen time and again that supporting the detoxification process is key in helping people suffering with Long Covid to feel better faster. We use homeopathic and herbal remedies that help open up the lymphatic system, liver, and kidneys, so the body can eliminate toxins more efficiently. Acupuncture can help open up all the energy channels in the body, which is imperative for the elimination of toxins. This sets the stage for the body to repair and maintain its own health. Our Supporting Therapies are a game changer for many people, as well. Lymphatic Therapy and HOCATT are particularly beneficial in speeding up the detoxification and healing process. 

 

  1. There is no one-size fits all approach to recovering from Long Covid.

Here at Longevity, we know that each person’s health picture is unique, and we’ve always treated each of our patients as an individual. A holistic approach to Long Covid is aimed at lowering the viral load, reducing the overall toxic burden, assessing specific nutritional deficiencies, and eliminating inflammatory foods and other problematic factors in the patient’s environment. 

 

If you are suffering with acute or Long Covid, our team is here to help, with a customized plan specific to your needs. We can get to the root of the issues you’re experiencing and rebuild your immune system with our holistic treatments, products, and detoxifying therapies. Give us a call today, and get your energy, vitality, and hope back!

 

Announcing the Launch of Longevity’s Love, Serve, Give Campaign

About Longevity’s Love, Serve, Give Campaign

 

Here at Longevity it has long been our mission to Love God and Serve People. We are thrilled to expand this vision by introducing our Love, Serve, Give Campaign, a program designed to help serve those in health as well as financial distress.

Many of you can attest that in addition to caring deeply for your physical health, we have always done our best to work with people in financial hardship. It’s not rare to see Kay walking the halls here at Longevity, making sure that everyone feels welcomed and taken care of, and giving extra discounts to those who need it. Nor is it rare to hear the practitioners and coordinators strategizing together to make a successful health plan more affordable. 

 

Additionally, many of our patients who have experienced the benefits of improved health after their time at Longevity end up paying for their friends and family with less financial resources.

We have even seen some of our patients pay for complete strangers– you know who you are! And we want you to know that we are blown away by your kindness and that you are a major inspiration for this program.

 

After much consideration, we believe that it could be beneficial for all if we organized our giving efforts into a more formal program that would allow those in financial need a more direct route to apply for assistance.

We have carefully designed this program to maximize impact, both for our patients and for our community. We have giving opportunities for our patients who believe in the work we are doing. And we will match these donations dollar for dollar! 

 

Let’s Start a Ripple Effect of Kindness and Service!

Additionally, for every $100 of the credit spent by the patient in receipt of the program, we will require 1 hour of community service to be performed by the patient, or a loved one if they are physically unable to themselves, for a cause, or with the charity of their choosing. The purpose of this is two-fold: to encourage the ripple effect of kindness and serving others, and to encourage the patient to be invested in their health program, even if they are unable to be financially invested.

 

When it comes to the heart behind this program, our staff member Janelle Bertler summed it up best:

“The Love, Serve, Give campaign is near and dear to my heart! I have personally experienced the ability of the body to come back to health when given the right support. I also recognize the financial investment when choosing methods outside of the conventional medical system of treating symptoms.

Here at Longevity, we strive to get to the root cause allowing the body to come back to health. I feel blessed every day to work with a company whose mission statement is to serve others. This is one more way in which we are striving to make a difference. Creating health for others gives people the bandwidth to make a choice to show up and make a difference in this world. This is our way of making a difference.”

 

We love our patients. We love seeing all of you improve your quality of life through improving your health. And we are so pleased to be able to make this possible for even more people! Thank you for your inspiring generosity and your help in making this happen.

 

Learn More >

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LOVE: “We love because he first loved us.” 1 John 4:19

SERVE: “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.”  Martin Luther King, Jr.

GIVE: “I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.” Maya Angelou

The Evolution of EMFs and How to Reduce Our Exposure

By Maddy Eiss, Longevity Health Center 

 

As technology evolves and we become more submersed with the changes that accompany it, new mental, emotional, and physical wellness concerns are arising. One of the technological developments that is specifically raising health concern for individuals is 5G RF, or Radio Frequency. 

There has been a lot of buzz around 5G since it first became available in April of 2019.

While we have been exposed to 1G, 2G, 3G and 4G for several decades, 5G uses much higher levels of gigahertz frequency. The higher the levels of gigahertz frequency, the larger the portion of RF radiation of the electromagnetic spectrum we are being exposed to. For example, 1G-4G use between 1 to 5 gigahertz frequency, whereas, 5G uses between 24 to 90 gigahertz frequency. Long term exposure to this level of EMFs (electromagnetics fields) could have a large impact on the soft cells of the brain and other organs in our bodies. 

So, how can you determine if EMFs are impacting your health and well-being?

One easy step is to have a Bio-Energetic Evaluation done to show if EMFs are putting stress on your body. You can also look out for common symptoms that include, but are not limited to, headaches, nausea and fatigue.

 

While we can’t completely cut off our exposure to 5G and other sources of EMFs, there are multiple steps we can take to reduce our contact with them.

 

Some simple ways to reduce your exposure to EMFs are:

  • Turn off your devices at night.
  • Switch your phone to airplane mode when you can.
  • When possible, use the speaker or bluetooth setting while using your cell phone to reduce the amount of time the device is against your face. 
  • Apply anti-inflammatory, antioxidant-rich essential oils, such as rosemary, at the stem of your neck or on the soles of your feet daily.
  • Hydrate daily with lots of mineral water to encourage optimal detoxification.
  • Take natural detoxification remedies like Metabolic Tox.
  • Use a Smart 5G Shield on the back of your cell phone to block harmful RF radiation. 
  • Wear a 5G RF Blocker Bracelet that is embedded with Far Infrared Ray, Negative Ion, Neodymium magnet and Tourmaline. 

 

Even though we should be conscious of EMFs and 5G in particular, we should not become overly stressed about our exposure, since we can not completely cut ties with them. The best thing you can do is educate yourself and your family and utilize some of the aforementioned suggestions on how to reduce the levels of these frequencies in your daily life. 

 

To learn more about Longevity and the services offered, visit LongevityHealth.com. 

,

Movement is Medicine

By Nicole DeWard, CEO & Master Trainer, SHINE Health & Wellness 

 

Let’s face it, it would be so much easier to take a magic pill where in a single moment, we begin feeling the benefits of healthy nutrition, exercise, mindfulness, stress relieving practices, and more. But it just doesn’t work that way! 

 

Not only is moving into February normally tough as we fight to beat those winter blues, but we are all also still contending with the effects of the pandemic.  We do have a choice to make. We can crawl back in bed, pull the covers over our faces, and try to avoid it, or we can be intentional and make decisions that will move us forward, regardless of whatever our environment is delivering. What are you actually in control of? What responsibilities can you take on? 

 

Your health and well-being are up to you! No one else can do it for you, motivate you, or live in your shoes! It’s on you and ONLY you! 

 

Since 80% of our results come from nutrition, changing the way we eat will give us the best benefit. However, even though only 20% of our results come from movement, I find that regular exercise inspires better nutrition almost all the time. 

 

Here’s the best news: the best type of movement is the one you CAN do, the one that you ENJOY, and the one you WILL do! 

 

Did you know that when you move your body, you mobilize all the systems in your body?  You will begin to notice improvements in your energy, mental clarity, digestion, heart health, and muscularity. It can be hard at times for sure, but you can do it! You CAN do HARD things. Believe in yourself, and go for it! I believe in you and I’m cheering you on!

 

Nicole DeWard is a Master Trainer with NASM and has been training clients for 13 years.  She’s owned a national coaching practice for the past decade. Nicole works with clients both locally and nationally, helping them create lifelong habits that will move them toward optimal health.

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