Customized Medicines
Dr. Sonja O'Bryan, Pharm.D., ABAAHP Board Certified Health Practitioner Diplomate-American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine: "Creative Medicines" for Hormones-Weight-Pain-Fatigue-Skin Diseases-Pediatrics-Autoimmune Disorders-Veterinary Needs. Using Complimentary, Integrative, Regenerative, Bio-Identical, and Lifestyle Medicine For Health and Healing.
Monday, February 1, 2016
Thursday, January 28, 2016
MTHFR: Is This YOUR Missing Link?
This is one of those blogs that could seriously help a lot of people. First take a look at this list of conditions, consider some of the things you know about yourself or someone you love, and read more on this topic. Maybe it will open up some discoveries in your healthcare plan that you have never considered before.
Do you have one of these conditions?
Depression
Fibromyalgia
Anxiety
Infertility (Male and Female)
Frequent Miscarriages
Migraines
Heart Disease
Multiple Sclerosis
Breast Cancer
Chronic Fatigue
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Cervical Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Elevated Homocysteine
Bipolar Disorder
Anemia
Irritability
Peripheral neuropathy
Restless Leg Syndrome
Diarrhea
Insomnia
Dementia
Autism
Endometriosis
Now ask yourself these questions: Am I on a "medication" to treat a problem on this list? Could my families risk with heart disease and cancer be linked to something more? I know I'm just not feeling my best, is there something missing in the details of my wellness quest? Can I do something to help support my system with the diagnosis I've been given? If you answered yes, then this blogs for YOU! Read on......Here's information that you may have never read about and that is VERY important to know.
Methylation is a vitamin-requiring biochemical process in the body that is critical for supporting mental and physical health, including the regulation of gene expression. Methylation is required for energy metabolism, immune and nerve cell function, fertility and sustained pregnancy, detoxification pathways, cardiovascular health, mood support and the regulation of neurotransmitters (think depression and anxiety and insomnia), and MORE. The correct function of the methylation cycle is dependent upon a number of key enzymes but a main enzyme one is 5,10 methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR). Some people have a genetic defect in the function of this enzymatic process which inhibits their ability to convert and produce active forms of folate. 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) is a biological form that is absorbed at the gut level, and transported across the blood-brain barrier, which offers incredible health and wellness benefits to your entire body. So consider this. Does your body methylate properly? Is your genetic mapping skipping a beat due to a problem with how your body converts your food and supplement sources to active folate? Maybe so!
Ideally, a person should be able to absorb folic acid from foods and dietary supplements and convert them to the active form of folate to make all of the necessary body processes go smoothly. I wanted to sound an alarm through this blog because research and clinical evidence is showing that this genetic determinant and link to diseases may be worth paying more attention to. AND, there's a strong thread of prevalence in families for this problem. Is there more connected to that fibromyalgia diagnosis you've been given? Are your sleepless nights because you're not "methylating" appropriately to convert serotonin and melatonin. Has fertility and pregnancy been a concern? There is a common genetic mutation in the general population which reduces MTHFR significantly and can predispose these people to various conditions like those indicated in the list above.
Get this!! Numerous studies have connected folate deficiency with depression. In patients that are folate deficient, the response to antidepressants will be less than optimal compared to those with normal folate status. Now think about that. Have you been on an antidepressant for anxiety or depression without ever knowing your methylation and folate status? The answer is probably yes to that too. I'd suggest you do some reading and perhaps open up a discussion with your physician about "MTHFR deficiency" and the lab tests to find out.
Who should consider a screening for MTHFR mutations? (not all inclusive)
Those with mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, bipolar disorder.
Infants and children of parents with MTHFR mutations
Family members related to someone with MTHFR mutations
Infertility or Pre-conception care (both MEN and WOMEN)
Elevated folate
Elevated homocysteine
Elevated serum cobalamin (due to the inability to methylate cyanocobalamin to methylcobalamin)
Patient with syndromes such as : IBS, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, downs syndrome
Alzheimers, Parkinsons, Autism, Epilepsy
Family history of cancer
Cervical dysplasia
Cardio disease (strokes, heart attacks, clots, high blood pressure)
Birth Defects
Other Nutrient Deficiencies Are Important too!!
Other B vitamins are very essential in looking at this whole process.
B12, specifically Methylcobalamin the most active 'methylated' form, works along with folate in regulating pathways and processes in our body. B12 is considered to be a VERY important nutrient in balancing homocysteine levels. An elevated homocysteine level is not a good thing and if there's heart disease in your family, it's worth getting evaluated with your doctor. ***Vegetarians and the elderly run the highest risk of a B12 deficiency. Remember, Methylcobalamin is what to look for in a supplement.
Biotin, synthesized by the bacteria in the gut in addition to certain foods and cofactors are involved in metabolism of fatty acids, amino acids and proper utilization of B Complex support formulas. Over-processed grains and simply cooking out the nutrients in our foods can cause depletions of these key factors in our diet resulting in sluggish energy and poor oxidative benefits. Biotin is good for the hair, skin, and nails also.
Niacin (as Niacinamide) is a cofactor in the mitochondrial respiratory chain which produces cellular energy. Niacin (or nicotinic acid) has a long history of use in cardiovascular health.
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) helps support healthy blood pressure. Studies indicate that homocysteine levels in individual with certain MTHFR mutations are very sensitive to riboflavin status.
Vitamin B6 is involved in over 100 enzymatic reactions in the body and is essential for lipid metabolism, neurotransmitter formation, immune health, and hormone processing. The really big issue with B6 when it comes to this topic is that it is essential in methylation for the breakdown of homocysteine. Again, an elevated homocysteine level is a common marker that is evaluated for heart disease risks.
Trimethylglycine (Betaine)
As a methyl donor, this key nutrient supports liver function and helps with detoxification pathways. There's evidence to show that it is beneficial in protecting against fat accumulation in the liver but it also helps work in harmony with the "B" list of vitamins that I mentioned above.
I can promise you that one of the BIG questions I ask when working with someone to evaluate their supplements and wellness regimens is, "Are you taking a B Complex Support Formula?" And on that note, let me just tell you that not all B Complex formulas are created equal. I believe in using pharmaceutical grade and high quality products in the most absorbable forms to the body. Take a look at what you are currently using (if anything) and see if some of these key essentials are in your product.
Again, let me just reinforce the importance of this information and taking a look for yourself. Revisit the list of disease states and some of these conditions and do some homework. Are you dealing with symptoms that might have an explanation which was never evaluated or detected (MTHFR)? QUITE POSSIBLY!!! Just in general, can you do something to help support your system? ABSOLUTELY! Re-evaluate your supplements, this list, and determine if you need to get some additional checks with your doctor.
"B" Well !!!
All the best,
Dr. Sonja
Do you have one of these conditions?
Depression
Fibromyalgia
Anxiety
Infertility (Male and Female)
Frequent Miscarriages
Migraines
Heart Disease
Multiple Sclerosis
Breast Cancer
Chronic Fatigue
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Cervical Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Elevated Homocysteine
Bipolar Disorder
Anemia
Irritability
Peripheral neuropathy
Restless Leg Syndrome
Diarrhea
Insomnia
Dementia
Autism
Endometriosis
Now ask yourself these questions: Am I on a "medication" to treat a problem on this list? Could my families risk with heart disease and cancer be linked to something more? I know I'm just not feeling my best, is there something missing in the details of my wellness quest? Can I do something to help support my system with the diagnosis I've been given? If you answered yes, then this blogs for YOU! Read on......Here's information that you may have never read about and that is VERY important to know.
Methylation is a vitamin-requiring biochemical process in the body that is critical for supporting mental and physical health, including the regulation of gene expression. Methylation is required for energy metabolism, immune and nerve cell function, fertility and sustained pregnancy, detoxification pathways, cardiovascular health, mood support and the regulation of neurotransmitters (think depression and anxiety and insomnia), and MORE. The correct function of the methylation cycle is dependent upon a number of key enzymes but a main enzyme one is 5,10 methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR). Some people have a genetic defect in the function of this enzymatic process which inhibits their ability to convert and produce active forms of folate. 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) is a biological form that is absorbed at the gut level, and transported across the blood-brain barrier, which offers incredible health and wellness benefits to your entire body. So consider this. Does your body methylate properly? Is your genetic mapping skipping a beat due to a problem with how your body converts your food and supplement sources to active folate? Maybe so!
Ideally, a person should be able to absorb folic acid from foods and dietary supplements and convert them to the active form of folate to make all of the necessary body processes go smoothly. I wanted to sound an alarm through this blog because research and clinical evidence is showing that this genetic determinant and link to diseases may be worth paying more attention to. AND, there's a strong thread of prevalence in families for this problem. Is there more connected to that fibromyalgia diagnosis you've been given? Are your sleepless nights because you're not "methylating" appropriately to convert serotonin and melatonin. Has fertility and pregnancy been a concern? There is a common genetic mutation in the general population which reduces MTHFR significantly and can predispose these people to various conditions like those indicated in the list above.
Get this!! Numerous studies have connected folate deficiency with depression. In patients that are folate deficient, the response to antidepressants will be less than optimal compared to those with normal folate status. Now think about that. Have you been on an antidepressant for anxiety or depression without ever knowing your methylation and folate status? The answer is probably yes to that too. I'd suggest you do some reading and perhaps open up a discussion with your physician about "MTHFR deficiency" and the lab tests to find out.
Who should consider a screening for MTHFR mutations? (not all inclusive)
Those with mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, bipolar disorder.
Infants and children of parents with MTHFR mutations
Family members related to someone with MTHFR mutations
Infertility or Pre-conception care (both MEN and WOMEN)
Elevated folate
Elevated homocysteine
Elevated serum cobalamin (due to the inability to methylate cyanocobalamin to methylcobalamin)
Patient with syndromes such as : IBS, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, downs syndrome
Alzheimers, Parkinsons, Autism, Epilepsy
Family history of cancer
Cervical dysplasia
Cardio disease (strokes, heart attacks, clots, high blood pressure)
Birth Defects
Other Nutrient Deficiencies Are Important too!!
Other B vitamins are very essential in looking at this whole process.
B12, specifically Methylcobalamin the most active 'methylated' form, works along with folate in regulating pathways and processes in our body. B12 is considered to be a VERY important nutrient in balancing homocysteine levels. An elevated homocysteine level is not a good thing and if there's heart disease in your family, it's worth getting evaluated with your doctor. ***Vegetarians and the elderly run the highest risk of a B12 deficiency. Remember, Methylcobalamin is what to look for in a supplement.
Biotin, synthesized by the bacteria in the gut in addition to certain foods and cofactors are involved in metabolism of fatty acids, amino acids and proper utilization of B Complex support formulas. Over-processed grains and simply cooking out the nutrients in our foods can cause depletions of these key factors in our diet resulting in sluggish energy and poor oxidative benefits. Biotin is good for the hair, skin, and nails also.
Niacin (as Niacinamide) is a cofactor in the mitochondrial respiratory chain which produces cellular energy. Niacin (or nicotinic acid) has a long history of use in cardiovascular health.
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) helps support healthy blood pressure. Studies indicate that homocysteine levels in individual with certain MTHFR mutations are very sensitive to riboflavin status.
Vitamin B6 is involved in over 100 enzymatic reactions in the body and is essential for lipid metabolism, neurotransmitter formation, immune health, and hormone processing. The really big issue with B6 when it comes to this topic is that it is essential in methylation for the breakdown of homocysteine. Again, an elevated homocysteine level is a common marker that is evaluated for heart disease risks.
Trimethylglycine (Betaine)
As a methyl donor, this key nutrient supports liver function and helps with detoxification pathways. There's evidence to show that it is beneficial in protecting against fat accumulation in the liver but it also helps work in harmony with the "B" list of vitamins that I mentioned above.
I can promise you that one of the BIG questions I ask when working with someone to evaluate their supplements and wellness regimens is, "Are you taking a B Complex Support Formula?" And on that note, let me just tell you that not all B Complex formulas are created equal. I believe in using pharmaceutical grade and high quality products in the most absorbable forms to the body. Take a look at what you are currently using (if anything) and see if some of these key essentials are in your product.
Again, let me just reinforce the importance of this information and taking a look for yourself. Revisit the list of disease states and some of these conditions and do some homework. Are you dealing with symptoms that might have an explanation which was never evaluated or detected (MTHFR)? QUITE POSSIBLY!!! Just in general, can you do something to help support your system? ABSOLUTELY! Re-evaluate your supplements, this list, and determine if you need to get some additional checks with your doctor.
"B" Well !!!
All the best,
Dr. Sonja
Monday, November 23, 2015
Compounding and Creative Medicines Now In Branson MO
http://www.lakelandrx.com/#!lakeland-compounding/clzx
Make sure to click around on our page and contact our team for more information.
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
YOUniversity!!! December 2015 HOT TOPIC "Collagen Induction Therapy"
The collaborative team of Professionals at Providence Medical Spa, Lakeland Wellness, and Cornerstone Christian Counseling have a desire to help YOU. So much so, that we have decided to put our expertise and efforts together to allow a one-stop wellness forum using our provider network to present information, provide demonstrations, and answer the common questions that we so often get asked. This is a great opportunity to gain key information on the relevant HOT TOPICS of anti-aging, health, and wellness.
What treatments are available?
What are the costs?
What skincare products work best?
Do I have a hormonal imbalance?
How do I go about testing and treatment?
How do I battle stress, emotional swings, anxiety, and depression?
What changes can I anticipate with aging?
~Imagine all of the questions that you might have related to hormones, skincare, wellness, aesthetics, supplements, weight management, fatigue, scarring, pain, fatigue, depression, anxiety, emotional health, and MORE. We intend to answer these questions by providing a monthly program focused on a certain health and wellness topic each month. Here's what's up FIRST!!!
DECEMBER CLASS FORMING NOW (12/10/2015 @ 6pm)
Make plans to join our December program where Jana Kueck R.N will be sharing on the topic of COLLAGEN INDUCTION THERAPY. It's one of the most popular procedures for men and women coming into the Medical Spa. Jana will be covering these 5 key YOUniversity "notes" of interest.
1. What are the common signs of aging after 40 years old?
2. What are the effective ways to prevent collagen loss with aging?
3. What are the advantages of Collagen Induction Therapy/MicroNeedling ?
4. A live demonstration to show you what the procedure involves.
5. What about the after care and associated costs with the treatments provided in the Spa?
YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS THIS!! Jana serves clients with excellence and great compassion.
Make it a part of your New Years Resolution to own your health in a better way. Join our
"CommYOUnity of Wellness" where relevant issues will be highlighted and discussed each month. We hope and expect that you will make some new friends along the way.
Also, Make sure to mention this BLOG and call the number listed on the coupon to get registered for the class. The class if FREE ($25 value) but you must RSVP due to limited space. 417-334-4032 or
417-231-4544.
YOUniversity Classes will be held in the Conference Room of Providence Medical Spa. www.providencemedispa.com
Thursday, October 8, 2015
Saliva Testing of Hormones and Cortisol
Estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA-S and cortisol are routinely measured in saliva. Steroid hormones in the bloodstream are mostly (95-99%) bound to carrier proteins, and in this form are unavailable to target tissues. Only the unbound fraction freely diffuses into tissues, including the salivary gland. Hormone levels in saliva therefore represent the quantity of the hormone that is currently available to target tissues and actively exerting specific effects on the body.
http://youtu.be/KURpZSXA7u8
Often I'm asked how to go about testing for hormonal imbalance. It's so simple and affordable and such a life changer for those struggling to make it through their days. And if you can't make it through your days, how will you ever make it through your years? Simply click on the link above to find out more about the testing kit that I can provide conveniently by shipping it to your home address. The same kit is used for both women and men and a simple call to our staff can help you determine which testing panel is best for you and your symptoms.
So is Hormonal Imbalance Affecting You?
Infertility
Loss of pregnancy
Erectile Dysfunction
Irritability
Anxiety
Night sweats
Incontinence
Fibroids
Sexual dysfunction
Insomnia
Fatigue
Difficulty losing weight or gaining unexplained weight
PMS
Vaginal Dryness
Yeast Infections
Continual infections and immunity issues
Palpitations
Migraines
Memory concerns
Lack of focus
Loss of stamina
Loss of muscle mass
It's exciting to have helped so many and extra exciting to see so many getting the help that they need in these areas. Don't put this off another day. Your "normal" is not acceptable when it affects your body, your health, and your longevity. Don't allow another dismissal of your symptoms with your provider with an "it's just the way it's going to be" mentality. Give me a call and I can help you get started towards a "NEW and IMPROVED YOU"!! Yay!!!
To your good hormone health,
Dr. Sonja
http://youtu.be/KURpZSXA7u8
Often I'm asked how to go about testing for hormonal imbalance. It's so simple and affordable and such a life changer for those struggling to make it through their days. And if you can't make it through your days, how will you ever make it through your years? Simply click on the link above to find out more about the testing kit that I can provide conveniently by shipping it to your home address. The same kit is used for both women and men and a simple call to our staff can help you determine which testing panel is best for you and your symptoms.
So is Hormonal Imbalance Affecting You?
Infertility
Loss of pregnancy
Erectile Dysfunction
Irritability
Anxiety
Night sweats
Incontinence
Fibroids
Sexual dysfunction
Insomnia
Fatigue
Difficulty losing weight or gaining unexplained weight
PMS
Vaginal Dryness
Yeast Infections
Continual infections and immunity issues
Palpitations
Migraines
Memory concerns
Lack of focus
Loss of stamina
Loss of muscle mass
It's exciting to have helped so many and extra exciting to see so many getting the help that they need in these areas. Don't put this off another day. Your "normal" is not acceptable when it affects your body, your health, and your longevity. Don't allow another dismissal of your symptoms with your provider with an "it's just the way it's going to be" mentality. Give me a call and I can help you get started towards a "NEW and IMPROVED YOU"!! Yay!!!
To your good hormone health,
Dr. Sonja
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Let's "Face" It, Healthy Skin Is In- The HydraFacial-Available in Branson MO
Oh My Goodness!! My skin feels amazing today. #wow
Read to the end and enjoy a special DISCOUNT CODE (Sept 15th- Nov 1st) to allow a pre-Holiday appointment time. Your skin will look and feel fabulous for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Thanks to the expertise of Jana Kueck and Dr. Robin Talley, owners of Providence Medical Spa www.providencemedispa.com in Branson MO....(my ONLY go-to girls for all-things-skincare, #truth), I feel like a new woman today. So good, that I can't keep this amazing anti-aging secret to myself. I wanted to be able to show each of you out there in BLOG-land how amazing this technology is and why YOU should consider this for yourself. If you have a SPECIAL EVENT coming up, get an appointment and treat yourself to younger looking skin for that occasion. If you are a local to Branson, lucky you. If you have a vacation planned for the Branson area, lucky you. Either way, it's a win. Why? Because this is an exclusive option that you will not find in most other medical spas. It's cutting edge technology with immediate results and Providence is the only place you'll find it in this area. It's very affordable, you don't have to hide from the public for a week after having a session, and it's effective. VERY, VERY effective.
I told Jana we needed to film the session so that others could see (catch some of the videos below). When Jana walked me through the procedure and explained each benefit, I was so enlightened and now I'm even more committed to my skin care. Who better to make a judgement call on the session than MYSELF so that I can inform my 59,000 blog guests who check in for anti-aging, hormone, and skincare information what this is like. I understand now why women are coming in once every month or two to give their face a breath of fresh 'hydration'. Give the MediSpa a call and set up your appointment.
So here goes…
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Read to the end and enjoy a special DISCOUNT CODE (Sept 15th- Nov 1st) to allow a pre-Holiday appointment time. Your skin will look and feel fabulous for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
So here goes…
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Now here's the best part. Call Providence Medical Spa 417-334-4032 and mention this PROMO CODE as a benefit of reading this blog. It gives you a 20% discount on a HydraFacial session and if I were you, I would consider taking advantage of multiple appointments at this rate.
PROMO CODE: "HOLIDAY HYDRAFACIAL" You'll be happy you did.
To your good skin health,
Dr. Sonja
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
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