Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, particularly affecting middle-aged and older women. In this blog, we will explore how a functional medicine approach can help manage Alzheimer’s through personalized strategies and addressing underlying causes.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the buildup of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, leading to the loss of neurons and cognitive decline. Key points to know about Alzheimer’s include:

• Symptoms: Memory loss, confusion, difficulty with language, mood changes, and impaired judgment are common symptoms.
• Risk Factors: Age, genetics, lifestyle factors, and chronic diseases can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
• Progression: Alzheimer’s typically progresses over several years, gradually impairing cognitive and physical function.

...

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects millions of people worldwide, with a significant number of cases occurring in middle-aged women. It is characterized by high blood sugar levels due to the body’s inability to produce or effectively use insulin. In this blog, we will explore how a functional medicine approach can help manage diabetes through personalized strategies and addressing underlying causes.

Understanding Diabetes

There are two main types of diabetes:

• Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to little or no insulin production.
• Type 2 Diabetes: A condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin or the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. It is the most common form of diabetes.

Common Risk Factors for Diabetes

1. Genetics: A family history of diabetes can increase the risk.
2. Obesity: Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, is a major risk factor.
3. Sedentary...

Cardiovascular health is a critical aspect of overall wellness, particularly for middle-aged women. As the leading cause of death for women, heart disease is a serious concern that requires proactive measures. In this blog, we’ll explore cardiovascular health from a functional medicine perspective, addressing risk factors, prevention strategies, and personalized approaches to maintaining a healthy heart.

Understanding Cardiovascular Health

The cardiovascular system, comprising the heart and blood vessels, is responsible for circulating blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients, and removing waste products. Maintaining its health is essential for preventing heart disease, stroke, and other related conditions.

Common Cardiovascular Issues

1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): This condition occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked. Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

2. Hypertension (High...

“A condition in which different elements are equal or in the correct proportions.”

I was reminded of balance today from the owner of The Dailey Method in Lake Forest where I work out.  She was discussing the importance of finding the time for yourself, regardless of the obstacles and joys in your life.  

Balance has a different meaning for everyone, but I want to focus on the importance of health in your life and how that plays a huge role in feeling centered.  We’ve all been in a place where we ate whatever was convenient, didn’t have the time to work out and went to bed still answering emails. More than likely this caused a need for more coffee in the morning and the entire cycle started over.  Not only will this decrease your energy and your mental focus, but this will start to increase pain in your entire body.

How do we find balance in a world where we are pulled in multiple directions everyday?  It comes...