Blog

Exploring the Interplay of Neurotransmitters and the Vagus Nerve in Fibromyalgia

brain health fibromyalgia Feb 16, 2024

At Texas Center for Lifestyle Medicine, we understand the challenges and complexities of living with Fibromyalgia. That's why we are proud to host our Fibromyalgia group visit sessions, designed to provide a safe and supportive community for individuals navigating this chronic condition. Our group visits offer a unique opportunity for members to come together, share their experiences, and find solace in knowing they are not alone on their journey. Through these sessions, we aim to empower individuals with Fibromyalgia with knowledge, resources, and a sense of belonging as they navigate the ups and downs of managing their symptoms. Join us and discover the power of community in overcoming Fibromyalgia.

During our recent session, we embarked on an enlightening exploration of various topics crucial to our overall well-being. From the impact of neurotransmitters on our health to the role of the vagus nerve and the significance of physical structures like the jaw and airway, our...

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Navigating Dysautonomia through Medical Group Visits

Group visits at TCLM are crafted to empower, educate, and equip participants on their journey toward holistic wellness and optimal mental and physical health. It's crucial to acknowledge that we are all constantly evolving, redefining what wholeness and a fulfilling life mean for each of us. In these group visits, we offer a safe space for individuals to be seen, supported, and encouraged to express themselves authentically. Together, as a community, we strive to create and cultivate our unique paths to a quality life.

Our Dysautonomia group visits, led by Dr. Ruan, provide a supportive and educational environment where members with shared symptoms come together to learn and heal. These sessions offer a valuable opportunity for individuals to connect with others who understand their experiences and offer support along their journey. Below is a summary/recap of this week's discussion in our group.

During our session, we explored the crucial role of connective tissue in our bodies and...

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Felix Liao, Airway Mouth Doctor Discusses the Dental and Brain Connection

Dive into the enlightening world of holistic dentistry with Dr. Liao, the esteemed Airway Mouth Doctor, at the Demystifying Fibromyalgia Conference! 

Embark on a journey where Dr. Liao unveils the profound connection between our mouths and the overall health of our bodies, offering invaluable insights into the holistic approach to dentistry and its profound impact on our well-being. Conference recordings are all available now through the Physician Transformation Institute. Click here for more info and to access recordings!

From the earliest stages of life, our growth is intricately linked to the functions of the mouth. Dr. Liao expertly guides us through the developmental milestones and elucidates how the mouth plays a pivotal role in this remarkable journey.

Dr. Liao emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining proper jaw and mouth structure to support an open airway. The intricate interplay between the structure of our skull, airway, and jaw is pivotal for various...

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Solving the Cognitive Health Mystery through Brain Mapping

When considering brain health, we often think of conditions deemed irreversible, seemingly unaffected by lifestyle changes. However, through analyzing high-quality data, we gain insights into the functioning of the brain and mental health, paving the way for actionable steps toward desired outcomes.

Utilizing tangible data, we can chart a course for change. While each person possesses a unique brain signature, common patterns offer valuable clues for improving outcomes.

Brain mapping compares an individual's brain wave patterns to those of a healthy control group, highlighting regions with abnormal activity levels. Armed with this data, individuals often contemplate their contribution to achieving desired health outcomes. This comparison helps us as providers identify any areas where your brain might be functioning differently, which can be key in understanding conditions like anxiety, ADHD, or even concussions.

But brain mapping isn't just about diagnosis. It's also about...

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Navigating Invisible Illnesses at Texas Center for Lifestyle Medicine

At Texas Center for Lifestyle Medicine (TCLM), we understand that living with an invisible illness can be an isolating and challenging experience. Conditions like Fibromyalgia often go unnoticed by others, leaving individuals feeling unseen and misunderstood. However, within our clinic, we strive to create a supportive community where individuals facing these invisible illnesses can find understanding, resources, and hope.

One such individual who has found solace and support at TCLM is Sara Gustafson. Sara's journey with Fibromyalgia began at a young age, leading her to rely on multiple prescription medications to manage her symptoms. However, it wasn't until after the birth of her first child that she truly began to grapple with the impact of her condition. Despite outward appearances of normalcy, Sara felt invisible, struggling to find validation for her experiences.

"In 2005, it was such an invisible condition because I looked normal," Sara recalls. "I had a really great...

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Rethinking Autoimmune Diseases: Empowering Perspectives for Healing

autoimmune Feb 09, 2024

Written by Cheng Ruan, MD

A New Dawn in Understanding Autoimmunity

Welcome to a transformative look into the realm of autoimmune diseases, where the lens through which we view these conditions is not only changing but also empowering. For too long, autoimmune diseases have been seen through a prism of permanence and despair. But what if we could shift this perspective to one of hope, empowerment, and potential healing? This blog aims to invigorate belief structures around autoimmunity, challenging the traditional notions that have confined patients and practitioners alike.

Autoimmune diseases, characterized by the immune system mistakenly attacking the body's own cells, affect millions worldwide. From rheumatoid arthritis to lupus, the prevalence and impact of these conditions cannot be understated. However, the narrative that autoimmune diseases are invariably chronic and irreversible is being reevaluated. Emerging research and countless stories of remission suggest that,...

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The Raw Truth about Raw Milk

The Raw Truth About Raw Milk: Exploring Benefits, Risks, and Popularity

Raw milk has garnered attention in recent years, touted by some as a nutritional powerhouse and dismissed by others as a health hazard. This polarizing beverage, straight from the udder and unpasteurized, has sparked debates among health enthusiasts, nutritionists, and medical professionals. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into what raw milk is, its potential benefits, associated risks, and the reasons behind its growing popularity. Drawing from evidence-based medical journals and articles, we aim to provide a balanced view to help you make informed decisions about incorporating raw milk into your diet.

What is Raw Milk? Raw milk is exactly what its name suggests – milk that has not undergone pasteurization, a process that involves heating the milk to kill harmful bacteria. Unlike commercially available pasteurized milk, raw milk is typically sourced directly from farms and is...

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Ditch the Canola oil: 6 Remarkable Benefits of Cooking with Coconut Oil

Most of us are aware that vegetable oils are contributing to chronic inflammatory diseases. Yet, a common challenge arises as individuals grapple with the decision of identifying which oils they should substitute for their cooking or frying oils. If this is your current dilemma when it comes to cooking at a high temperature, not to worry! We have you covered. 

When it comes to cooking oils, we have quite a few recommendations! You may need to experiment to see which flavors you prefer in fried, baked, stir fried and pan seared dishes. Try any of the following to avoid creating an inflammatory response from toxic vegetable oils: 

  1. Avocado oil
  2. Ghee (clarified butter) 
  3. Coconut oil (unrefined)
  4. Flaxseed oil
  5. Walnut oil
  6. Extra virgin olive oil (unrefined) - low temperature only! 

 

In this blog post, we are going to focus solely on the healing benefits of coconut oil to inspire you to potentially break out of your comfort zone! Cooking with coconut oil not...

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Unlocking Optimal Health: Exploring the Link Between Oral Health and Chronic Conditions

At TCLM, we are dedicated to unraveling the complexities of chronic health issues and discovering their origins. Today, we delve into a fascinating and often overlooked connection—the profound impact of oral health on conditions such as chronic pain, fibromyalgia, digestive issues, chronic fatigue syndrome, autoimmune disorders, and more.

The Oral-Systemic Link: In our ever-evolving world, changes in food, environmental factors, and lifestyle have led to transformations in dental and mouth structures. Surprisingly, these shifts have occurred without adequate preventative measures, giving rise to structural issues that extend beyond the oral cavity. The result? A surge in obstructive sleep apnea, upper airway resistance syndrome, and other airway-related challenges that significantly impact overall health.

TCLM's Approach: At TCLM, we stand firm in our commitment to addressing the root causes of health issues rather than merely masking symptoms. To achieve this, we've fostered...

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Nurturing Mental Well-being: The Power of Community and Relationships

The holiday season, with its hustle and bustle, has come to a close. Now, as we find ourselves in the calm aftermath, it's an opportune time to turn our focus inward, reflecting on the importance of community for our mental health. At TCLM, we believe that the connections we build and nurture have a profound impact on our overall well-being.

Taking Stock of Relationships: A Post-Holiday Reflection

In the spirit of self-discovery, let's take a moment to be honest with ourselves about the relationships in our lives. This is the perfect time to set intentions, evaluate boundaries, and appreciate the unique roles individuals play in our journey. Relationships, much like the changing seasons, can evolve and take on different meanings at various points in our lives.

Understanding the Tapestry of Connections

People can play diverse and meaningful roles in our lives. Some act as mentors, offering guidance and wisdom. Others become companions in our mutual journey of growth....

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