Category: Health

  • Aloha Everyone

    My contributions to Generations Magazine will end with this article. In past articles that I have written, I had the pleasure of sharing information about a very special water, transformed by electricity, that has been given the status of “medicinal water” in Japan. The Japanese have been utilizing a technology to transform ordinary tap water into ionized, micro-clustered, concentrated alkaline and acidic waters for decades. It started in the animal husbandry and agriculture sector, eventually moving into mainstream applications for human consumption and use.

    My articles in past issues of Generations Magazine have quoted and highlighted numerous doctors, medical and research professionals as to the benefits of consuming and using electrically charged ionized water.

    The human body is approximately 75 percent water. The body loses an average of three quarts of water per day through urination, exhalation and perspiration. It is absolutely critical that this water be replaced. Proper hydration is key to the normal functioning of body activities. Ionized, micro-clustered water is molecularly smaller than other waters which allows it to absorb up to six times faster and more efficiently into the cells of the body allowing for optimum hydration.

    Recent medical studies have exposed the role of inflammation, both low-level and acute, as a key contributor to degenerative health issues. Inflammation, documented through medical research, is oftentimes a direct result of abnormal fermentation in the colon that cause an increase in free radical production. This discovery narrows the window on the root cause of health issues in the human body. The high negative electrical charge of properly ionized water is instrumental in the neutralization of positively charged free radicals in the body.

    So why would you not want to try and drink ionized, micro-clustered, alkaline water? Many of you have asked me over the past year about where you can buy this kind of water. There is an inherent problem with this kind of water that renders it unsuitable for sale in a retail setting.

    The most common process of ionizing water requires the water to pass over electrodes that convert the electrical charge of the source water from positive to negative. Negatively charged water, or ionized water, has powerful health properties. This negative electrical charge is very fragile. The problem is that within the span of one to three days on average, the negative electrical charge, also known as antioxidant potential of the water, reverts back to its positive or oxidative charge.

    What this means is that you have to drink the ionized water within a short window of time to get the maximum health benefits.

    The most common belief that most people have is that “water is water.” There is ample documented research that speaks otherwise. If you truly want to explore a natural simple protocol that may change your health profile, drink ionized, micro-clustered, alkaline water.

    Enagic USA INDEPENDENT DISTRIBUTOR

    Alan Matsushima
    808-384-7354  |  trader_808@yahoo.com

    Woody Kobayashi
    808-223-2613  |  woody18k@msn.com

    he Japanese have been utilizing a technology to transform ordinary tap water into ionized, micro-clustered, concentrated alkaline and acidic waters for decades. It started in the animal husbandry and agriculture sector, eventually moving into mainstream applications for human consumption and use.

  • SHINGLES: What You Need to Know

    There is a painful ailment that affects millions of people: shingles.

    What is shingles?

    Shingles is a blistering rash that is caused by a virus called herpes zoster. It effects approximately one million people in America every year. The herpes zoster virus, what we call shingles, is actually the same virus as the chicken pox you may have experienced as a child. When patients develop chicken pox, caused by a virus called Varicella-zoster, it lies dormant in your body for the rest of your life. Then, later in life, it may reactivate into another form we call shingles.

    The reactivation of the virus that lays dormant in your body is caused by many risk factors. Commonly as you age, especially after the ages of 50-60 years old, your chances of incidence increased dramatically. Although, there are also many patients younger than 50 who also develop shingles. Typically, patients who are immunocompromised, have had a recent cold or are highly stressed in their daily lives, are at increased risk for an incidence of shingles.

    What are some signs and symptoms?

    Some of the signs and symptoms of shingles include a red rash that quickly evolves into groups of vesicles or blisters. Many patients may experience a burning or tingling sensation prior to onset of the rash that could last days or even weeks before eruption of lesions. Other patients may also experience signs and symptoms of a cold, such as fever, fatigue, chills and headache. The rash can also be very painful for many patients and cause complications that may last even after the rash has resolved.

    Usually, the rash from the shingles is only on one side of the body, and this unilateral distribution is a classic presentation that helps doctors to diagnose patients. The rash can appear on your head, face, neck, torso, arms or legs, but typically, the rash appears on the torso for many patients. After eruption of the rash and blisters, the vesicles may rupture and crust over in about seven to 10 days.

    How’s it treated and prevented?

    If you suspect you may have shingles, please see your healthcare provider right away! The prompt and proper diagnosis of the disease is crucial when providing treatment for shingles. If caught early, within 72 hours, doctors can prescribe medications that may help to hasten and help decrease the severity of the virus. These medications can equally help to also prevent complications from shingles, which may include losing your vision and hearing, meningitis and other neurologic complications. Your healthcare provider also can help to give you medications that may help to reduce the pain and burning sensations that can be very debilitating for many patients.

    One of the best ways to prevent an outbreak from occurring is for older adults and patients who are at high risk, to receive their shingles vaccine. Although this vaccine does not prevent the disease 100 percent, it will significantly reduce your risk, and if you do have an incidence of shingles, it can help to reduce the severity of the virus.

    HOUSE CALL MEDICAL PRACTICE

    808-726-5062  |  housecallmed@gmail.com
    housecallmedhawaii.com

    Shingles is a blistering rash that is caused by a virus called herpes zoster. It effects approximately one million people in America every year. The herpes zoster virus, what we call shingles, is actually the same virus as the chicken pox you may have experienced as a child.

  • 5 Healthy Valentine’s Day Ideas

    There is no better gift that you can give your loved one than taking care of your health and staying fit. Living well means that you will be able to enjoy your time together for decades to come. Rather than the old routine of chocolates or dining out, why not try something more active and fun, something new to explore. Here are five ideas:

    1. Hiking/Nature walk. Go for a walk on the beach, or hike with your special someone. The peace and quiet with natural scenery not only is romantic, but you’ll burn calories and increase endorphin levels.
    2. Dancing. Music puts everyone in a good mood. Whether it is salsa, ballroom dancing or watching your favorite local band, try something new with each other, and get your heart pumping.
    3. Bike riding. Plan a route with amazing views, and get out in the fresh air together.
    4. Try a new sport. Step out of your comfort zone and try something new like bowling or tennis. Burn calories as you laugh!
    5. Schedule a couple’s massage. This may not seem like an active date, but a massage helps to relieve muscle tension and pain, reduce stress and improve overall health.

    Make this Valentine’s Day a day to remember and bond with the one you love over a new experience while you improve your health.

    Moon Physical Therapy, LLC
    320 Ward Ave., Ste. 107, Honolulu HI 96814

    Aquatic, Land-based and Manual Therapy and
    Cardiopulmonary Rehab Programs

    808-597-1005 | moonpt.com
    Like me on Facebook: Moon Physical Therapy, LLC

    There is no better gift that you can give your loved one than taking care of your health and staying fit. Living well means that you will be able to enjoy your time together for decades to come.

  • Go with Your Gut

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified mental wellness issues — stress, depression and anxiety — as the leading causes of a “global health burden.” Could it be that, for the past century, we’ve had the mistaken notion that these problems are all in our head, when in reality they are largely in our gut?

    Did you know that we have two brains? You undoubtedly know about the brain in your head. And while you might not know much about the “second brain” in your gut, you’ve probably “felt” it before. We feel “butterflies” in our stomach when we fall in love or when we’re nervous. We have a “gut feeling” about decisions that we’re wrestling with. Our stomach “growls” when we’re hungry, and we feel “sick to our stomach” when we’re stressed out. Many of us also know that when our gut feels off we simply don’t feel our best.

    Our two brains also “talk” to each other through a complex network of nerves, cells and biochemicals. Only within the last few years have scientists and health experts begun learning the importance of microbiome balance in regulating not just our gastrointestinal functions, but also our mood, mental focus and emotional well-being.

    The discovery of the gut-brain axis and the explosion of research around the microbiome — the 100 trillion bacteria that live in our gastrointestinal tract — is causing a fundamental shift in how we think about (and improve) both mental wellness and physical health. For example, some recent scientific research demonstrates that gut bacteria influence everything from neurotransmitters (depression/anxiety), gut integrity (regularity), immune function (colds/flu/allergies), inflammation (pain, heart health, dementia), and even gene expression (related to a variety of degenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and even cancer).

    Unfortunately, so much of today’s modern lifestyle can disrupt the microbiome and lead to imbalances across the gut-brain axis, causing us to feel fatigued, depressed and stressed. Research has shown that the microbiome can become disrupted by the aging process, but it may also show that we can use nutrients (specific combinations of probiotics, prebiotics and phytobiotics) to rebalance the microbiome and optimize gut-brain axis function for improved mood, reduced depression, lessened anxiety, and enhanced stress resilience.

    Many people have long known that gut health is important for overall wellness, and now modern science and innovative companies are backing up why feeding the gut with the right foods can help each of us feel happier and healthier.

    AMARE GLOBALl
    Lori Makiya, Wellness Partner
    808-285-9620  |  amaretogether@gmail.com
    www.lovingyourgut.com

    Visit online to learn more about how to optimize the mind-gut connection and for information on Amare Global’s FREE information sessions with Dr. Shawn Talbott in Honolulu on Saturday, February 9, 2019. Contact Lori Makiya (above) for registration and location details.

    Editor’s note: Before trying any dietary supplements, we encourage you to
    do research and consult your doctor before taking them.

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified mental wellness issues — stress, depression and anxiety — as the leading causes of a “global health burden.” Could it be that, for the past century, we’ve had the mistaken notion that these problems are all in our head, when in reality they are largely in our gut?

  • Prevent Rat Lungworm Disease

    In late September, an infant from Hawai’i Island was confirmed as the state’s 17th case of rat lungworm disease. Caused by a roundworm parasite, it can have debilitating effects on a person’s brain and spinal cord. The disease is endemic to the state and spreads when rodents pass larvae of the worm in their feces, which then is eaten by snails and slugs.

    Rat lungworm disease cannot be spread from person-to-person. Humans become infected by accidentally consuming snails or slugs, sometimes hidden on unwashed produce. People also can get the disease from eating under-cooked snails, freshwater prawns, crabs and frogs.

    The Puna toddler was infected likely after accidentally consuming a slug or snail. The Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) is reminding parents, grandparents and caregivers to closely supervise young children, making sure they are not ingesting slugs, snails or other objects from the ground.

    “As caregivers, we have to watch what children might be sucking and chewing on, and help them properly wash their hands using soap and clean water after playing, whether indoors or outdoors,” says Health Director Dr. Virginia Pressler.

    Many kūpuna enjoy spending time in their backyards and gardens. To reduce the risk of rat lungworm disease, everyone is encouraged to eliminate slugs, snails and rats in their home gardens and around their properties.

    Important safety tips include:

    • Carefully wash produce un-der potable running water, especially leafy greens, to remove any tiny slugs or snails.
    • Cook food thoroughly by boiling for 3 to 5 minutes or heating to 165 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 seconds.
    • Cover water catchment tanks and containers.
    • Place a nozzle on watering hoses and keep off the ground to prevent slugs and snails from entering.
    After playing, help grandchildren wash their hands with soap and clean water.
    After playing, help grandchildren wash their hands with soap and clean water.
    Always wash produce thoroughly under potable running water before consuming. Pay careful attention to leafy greens.
    Always wash produce thoroughly under potable running water before consuming. Pay careful attention to leafy greens.

    SYMPTOMS:

    See your doctor if you have severe headache, neck stiffness, fever, tingling or pain in the skin or extremities.

    HAWAI‘I STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
    Disease Investigation Branch

    808-586-8362  |  Info Line 808-586-4400
    www.health.hawaii.gov

     

    In late September, an infant from Hawai’i Island was confirmed as the state’s 17th case of rat lungworm disease. Caused by a roundworm parasite, it can have debilitating effects on a person’s brain and spinal cord. The disease is endemic to the state and spreads when rodents pass larvae of the worm in their feces,…

  • Seeing and Feeling is Believing

    In my previous articles in Generations Magazine, I’ve had the chance to share the wonder, power and fact that “the right kind of water” is key to maintaining an optimum health profile. Here is a review of the past articles, which can be found in articles published on this website.

    February 2016
    “Water Does Matter”

    Not all waters are created equal. Ionized water is best for the body, according to this article that addresses common misconceptions about water.

    April 2016
    “Why Drink More Water?”

    I discuss the importance of drinking enough water daily, how the body loses water, how much water is lost on a daily basis and the devastating and life-altering effects of dehydration.

    June 2016
    “Inflammation and Aging: Fluid Problems”

    This article identifies the relationship between aging chronic diseases and inflammation, which is the root cause of “old age” aches and pains, fatigue and aging skin. Dr. Hiromi Shinya, the father of modern colonoscopy and a world-renowned author and gastrointestinal specialist, recommends drinking a special, ionized alkaline water.

    August 2016
    “Doctors Say So”

    I quoted and took excerpts from articles featuring five medical professionals, including doctors, patent holders, researchers and authors. All stress the importance
    of drinking ionized alkaline water.

    October 2016
    “What I Learned From
    Dr. McCauley”

    This article features Dr. Bob McCauley, a naturopathic doctor, master herbalist and certified nutritional consultant, and his views on ionized alkaline water.

    December 2016
    “You Are What You Drink”

    The high level of interest I received from a past article “Doctors Say So” led me to write another piece highlighting four other medical professionals and their views on ionized alkaline water.

    The professed power and health benefits of ionized alkaline water can be difficult for many people to understand or believe.

    But seeing and feeling is believing.

    In terms of life span, ionized water is very sensitive. The most important property of ionized water is its “negative electrical charge,” also known as its antioxidant property. Once ionized water is produced, the negative electrical charge in the ionized water turns positive within 24 to 48 hours.

    For someone to truly experience the maximum benefits of the ionized water, one needs to drink the water as fresh as possible.

    Enagic USA INDEPENDENT DISTRIBUTOR

    Alan Matsushima
    808-384-7354  |  trader_808@yahoo.com

    Woody Kobayashi
    808-223-2613  |  woody18k@msn.com

    In my previous articles in Generations Magazine, I’ve had the chance to share the wonder, power and fact that “the right kind of water” is key to maintaining an optimum health profile. Here is a review of the past articles, which can be found in articles published on this website. February 2016 “Water Does Matter”…

  • Stretch Away Your Stress

    Adults of all generations, from millennials to baby boomers and “maturers,” struggle with managing stress. Life can often be chaotic. When we are stressed, the body releases hormones adrenaline and cortisol. This increases heart rate and blood pressure, and interferes with sleep, which is vital for body repair, restoration and emotional balance.

    When severely stressed, tension usually is held in the shoulders, head and neck. Tension restricts blood flow, which leads to tightness in muscles. If not treated, the muscles will shorten over time, causing headaches and pain.

    The good news is that there are simple techniques to help reduce stress. According to the Mayo Clinic, stretching increases blood flow to the muscles and aids in circulation, allowing muscles to relax. Stretching also promotes circulation of new blood to the brain, resulting in mood elevation. Deep breathing while stretching increases oxygen consumption, slows heart rate and lowers blood pressure, which incites relaxation of the body.

    So, take time out of your busy schedule to listen to your body. The more you stretch, the better you will feel overall.

    • Stand on a towel and hold it taut with one hand.
    • Grasp your head and gently pull to one side.
    • Use the towel to hold the shoulder down and rotate the arm out, opening the chest area. This provides a deeper stretch in the neck, chest and shoulder.
    • Breathe deeply in through the nose and out through the mouth. Hold for 30 seconds and then switch.

    Moon Physical Therapy, LLC
    320 Ward Ave., Ste. 107, Honolulu HI 96814

    Aquatic, Land-based and Manual Therapy and Cardiopulmonary Rehab Programs

    808-597-1005 | www.moonpt.com
    Like me on Facebook: Moon Physical Therapy, LLC

    Adults of all generations, from millennials to baby boomers and “maturers,” struggle with managing stress. Life can often be chaotic. When we are stressed, the body releases hormones adrenaline and cortisol. This increases heart rate and blood pressure, and interferes with sleep, which is vital for body repair, restoration and emotional balance. When severely stressed,…

  • What Is Auricular Medicine?

    Auricular medicine is a highly developed, independent system of medicine recently rediscovered and revived as a major modality in the Chinese healthcare system. Thousands of years ago, it was discovered that the ears themselves contain nerve and acupuncture points corresponding to many areas and regions of the body. By stimulating these points, positive changes in the corresponding area can be created.

    In China over the past 2,000 years, the ears have been used to treat and diagnose diseases. However, the art of auricular medicine goes far beyond improving one’s health. The ears — when examined closely by a trained practitioner — can yield tremendous insights into the nature of a person’s body and constitutional type.

    This, in turn, gives the practitioner insights into the potential conditions, patterns and dysfunctions in the client’s body before symptoms may manifest. Over 400 points in the ear correlate to almost every system and functional process in the body. Treatment with auricular medicine is simple and painless. It can be used to assist with almost any chronic condition as a helpful adjunct therapy to any other modality.

    As an expanding body of knowledge, auricular medicine uses modern medical technologies, such as micro current, magnetic fields and electrical detection. This builds upon the ancient foundational knowledge and advances the understanding of how body systems work in an integrated, holistic way to promote better health.

    LUNA ACUPUNCTURE & WELLNESS LLC

    503-853-2866 | James@LunaAcupunctureWellness.com
    www.LunaAcupunctureWellness.com

    Auricular medicine is a highly developed, independent system of medicine recently rediscovered and revived as a major modality in the Chinese healthcare system. Thousands of years ago, it was discovered that the ears themselves contain nerve and acupuncture points corresponding to many areas and regions of the body. By stimulating these points, positive changes in…

  • Tighten Your ‘Internal Belt’

    Core training is one of the most popular concepts in the field of fitness and physical therapy. Core stability training is often associated with strengthening your abdominal muscles — the “abs.” The ab muscles play a very important role, but the core also includes multiple muscles in the mid-lower back, pelvic floor, hips and buttocks.

    This ring of muscles, or the “internal belt,” holds us up during the day, reducing falls, decreasing back pain and improving posture and even bladder control.

    Whether you are lifting your grandchild or playing your favorite sport, your core muscles help maintain the body in proper alignment to avoid injury.

    I often see patients who fall victim to the latest fitness trends that train the core improperly, leading to spine or leg injuries. Crunches, side-bends and rotational exercises with weights or kettlebells are not bad, but as we age, they often create more problems than benefits.

    Exercises that engage the muscles by bracing the entire trunk — as though you are wearing an internal belt rather than sucking the stomach in and flexing forward — are more effective in improving core stability.

    If you have poor posture and a weak core, try this simple, effective exercise to begin developing core control:

    • Start by finding an open wall.
    • Stand at the wall facing outward. Then place your heels about 6 inches away from bottom portion of the wall.
    • While keeping your foot planted, lean back against the wall with your back flush to the wall.
    • Pull your shoulders and arms back so they touch the wall.
    • Push your shoulders down with your palms facing out.
    • Tighten your abdominals so your lower back touches the wall — as if a force is sucking your back up against it.
    • Stand tall and breathe, hold
      for 30 seconds and then relax. Repeat 10 to 15 times.

    This simple exercise will tighten your internal belt and help you avoid injuries.

    Moon Physical Therapy LLC
    320 Ward Ave., Ste. 107, Honolulu HI 96814

    Aquatic, Land-Based and Manual Therapy, and
    Cardiopulmonary Rehab Programs

    808-597-1005 | www.moonpt.com
    Like me on Facebook: Moon Physical Therapy LLC

     

    Core training is one of the most popular concepts in the field of fitness and physical therapy. Core stability training is often associated with strengthening your abdominal muscles — the “abs.” The ab muscles play a very important role, but the core also includes multiple muscles in the mid-lower back, pelvic floor, hips and buttocks. This ring…

  • Ancient Health and Happiness Art

    For thousands of years, the tradition of calligraphy has been considered the highest form of art in many ancient cultures. In China and Japan, for instance, calligraphy, or “beautiful writing,” has served as more than just an alluring visual. The roots of understanding and deep contemplation that come through the art uplift all aspects of one’s life.

    The practice of becoming a calligrapher requires unwavering focus and refined tactile skills. The art form is transmitted in a deep, meditative state from the writer, through the brush to paper and offers a profound way to further develop body, mind and spirit.

    My teacher, Dr Zhi Gang Sha, is the sole lineage holder of the rare, ancient form of Yi Bi Zi Chinese calligraphy taught by 103-year-old Professor Li Qiu Yun. This unique form of one-stroke writing carries high-level messages to promote a harmonious, positive life.

    The intricate characters combine to describe the greatest qualities of life —love, forgiveness, compassion and service to others. The positive affirmations, concentration and meditative aspects lead to harmonious mindsets, attitudes and beliefs.

    Tao calligraphy is unique because it utilizes a powerful movement practice. The message is traced with the hands or whole body while chanting the positive message. The art is a fun, powerful way to help people move and meditate. Benefits of regular tracing include better circulation, stress reduction, relaxation and mental clarity.

    LUNA ACUPUNCTURE & WELLNESS LLC

    503-853-2866 | James@LunaAcupunctureWellness.com
    www.LunaAcupunctureWellness.com

     

    For thousands of years, the tradition of calligraphy has been considered the highest form of art in many ancient cultures. In China and Japan, for instance, calligraphy, or “beautiful writing,” has served as more than just an alluring visual. The roots of understanding and deep contemplation that come through the art uplift all aspects of…

  • Speed Healing with Aquatic Therapy

    By Julie Moon, Physical Therapist

    Back surgery is a serious procedure and often requires significant recovery time. Exercise is a critical part of healing, although during the post-operative stages, patients must be careful to avoid undue stress on the surgical site with certain activities, bending, lifting or twisting.

    The gentle environment of water allows patients to perform movements that they are unable to perform on land. The warmth of the water allows patients to increase their range of motion without severe pain. Buoyancy supports weak muscles and reduces stress on the spine, while the water’s resistance improves muscle tone and increases cardiovascular function.

    Janet Shaw, 75, underwent back surgery in January. Her goal was to swim in the Mermaids Hawaii Mother’s Day show in May. But her aquatic therapy program enabled her to participate in a swim show in March!

    Too much activity after surgery may slow recovery or damage the surgical repair. But aquatic therapy can be a safe and effective tool during the early stages of spinal care, and facilitate an easier transition to land exercises. And just like Janet, it can help you reach your goals and return you to the activities you love as soon as possible.

    MOON PHYSICAL THERAPY, LLC
    320 Ward Ave., Ste. 107, Honolulu HI 96814
    Aquatic, Land-based and Manual Therapy and
    Cardiopulmonary Rehab Programs
    808-597-1005 | www.moonpt.com
    Like me on Facebook: Moon Physical Therapy, LLC

    By Julie Moon, Physical Therapist Back surgery is a serious procedure and often requires significant recovery time. Exercise is a critical part of healing, although during the post-operative stages, patients must be careful to avoid undue stress on the surgical site with certain activities, bending, lifting or twisting. The gentle environment of water allows patients…

  • Diabetes Treatment: East Meets West

    By James Carter, L.Ac

    An estimated 30 million people in America have type 2 diabetes and that number is
    increasing each year. Although type 2 diabetes affects many different systems and functions of the body, the most commonly known effect is its disruption of the body’s ability to regulate blood glucose levels either by a lack of production of insulin or the body’s resistance to insulin. Common causes of type 2 diabetes are poor nutrition, excess weight, lack of exercise, genetics and even certain medications. Current conventional treatments involve taking insulin and lifestyle changes. However, the consistent increase in the number of people diagnosed each year leads many to conclude that these treatments alone may not be enough. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine offer unique and integrative approaches to improving the health of those dealing with diabetes through modalities unheard of by most in the West. In a Chinese medicine approach, different treatment principles are aimed at restoring the body’s own functional physiology. Modalities are combined to help restore balance — acupuncture therapy, medicinal nutrition, auricular acupressure, herb teas, cupping therapy — as well as lifestyle changes.

    These Chinese therapies, carefully combined with conventional medicine under the guidance of both practitioners, can facilitate diabetes management and create sustainable shifts in the root causes of the imbalance.

    LUNA ACUPUNCTURE & WELLNESS LLC
    503-853-2866 | James@LunaAcupunctureWellness.com
    www.LunaAcupunctureWellness.com

    By James Carter, L.Ac An estimated 30 million people in America have type 2 diabetes and that number is increasing each year. Although type 2 diabetes affects many different systems and functions of the body, the most commonly known effect is its disruption of the body’s ability to regulate blood glucose levels either by a…