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December 2015 Newsletter Pettinato Chiropractic Center

5476 William Flynn Highway-Gibsonia, PA 15044

(724) 444-6644 pettinatochiropractic.com

Is This the Next "Superfood"

Everyone Will Be Talking About?

ORTH PITTSBURGH – In just a

moment, you are going to read about a

“superfood” you might want to add to your

diet. There is some pretty good research

supporting this food’s benefits, benefits you

probably are NOT getting right now.

But first, do you want to live longer, feel

better, be stronger, and eliminate all the pain in your

life?

If you do, then you are not alone. Everyone

seems to want those things.

That’s one big reason why “superfoods” are

all the rage.

You've probably heard of various superfoods

touted with all kinds of huge promises and claims

like they supposedly boost energy, increase libido,

and can even cure chronic disease.

What Is a Superfood?

The reality is "superfood" is not a scientific

term. It's a marketing term used to promote foods

that have health benefits. That's it.

Here is something very important to

understand: all foods are chemical compounds the

body breaks down and uses for whatever it needs.

Some foods have more usable nutrients than

others, but your body is the real magician here. For

example, if you eat a pre-packaged piece of cake you

purchased from a gas station convenience store, your

body will break it down and use it for energy or to

make hormones or whatever it can given what

nutrients it can extract from the cake. But if you eat

fresh fruits and vegetables, there are a whole lot

more readily available nutrients for your body to use.

So, the big idea to understand here is that you

should eat the foods that give your body the best

sources of the nutrients it needs. Your body will

create whatever you need from those building

blocks.

That’s why you may want to think of

superfoods as just foods that have certain great

nutrients your body can easily use. If you

predominantly eat foods that are full of nutrients,

you will be much healthier than if you did not.

N

Clearly, you are much better off eating fresh

fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats than

processed junk and fast food.

One Food You Should

Seriously

Consider Adding to Your

Diet…

Beets. Yes, research has

shown these little red roots are

packed with nutrients that can

produce several great health

benefits.

According to an article on

Science Daily posted way back in

2008: “Researchers at Barts and

The London School of Medicine have discovered

that drinking just 500 ml of beetroot juice a day can

significantly reduce blood pressure. The study could

have major implications for the treatment of

cardiovascular disease.

“Led by Professor Amrita Ahluwalia of the

William Harvey Research Institute at Barts and The

London School of Medicine, and Professor Ben

Benjamin of Peninsula Medical School, the research

reveals that it is the ingestion of dietary nitrate

contained within beetroot juice — and similarly in

green, leafy vegetables — which results ultimately in

decreased blood pressure. Previously, the

protective effects of vegetable-rich diets had been

attributed to their antioxidant vitamin content.”

Then in 2010, researchers from Wake Forest

showed that drinking beet juice can increase blood

flow to the brain in older adults — a finding that

could hold great potential for combating the

progression of dementia.

Fast forward to 2015… Scientists from Penn

State recently published an article titled “To Beet or

Not to Beet?” The article discusses a study that

found the arteries of athletes who consumed nitrate-

rich beet juice prior to exercise were less stiff under

resting conditions, potentially easing the heart's

workload.

More Proof...

In a study published in the American Journal

of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and

Comparative Physiology, healthy male subjects who

drank beet juice for 15 days had lower blood

pressure and more dilated blood vessels both at rest

and during exercise.

The blood vessels of those

who drank beet juice also

dilated more easily and the heart

consumed less oxygen during

exercise. According to

the researchers, the findings

suggest that beet juice can be

used as a dietary nutraceutical

supplement to enhance oxygen

delivery to the muscles and

reduce the work the heart does

during exercise. They add,

“[Exercise can be] performed

at a given workload for a longer

period of time before the onset of fatigue.”

In September 2015, researchers at

Washington University School of Medicine in St.

Louis found drinking concentrated beet juice

increased muscle power in patients with heart

failure. This study also showed that spinach makes

you stronger, but it is the nitrates in spinach that are

responsible, not the iron as previously thought.

Nitrates Seem to Be Key

Here’s how it works, when you eat beets, the

bacteria in your tongue converts those nitrates into

nitritines, and once in your gut, those nitritines are

converted into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a

molecule deeply tied to cardiovascular health, a

molecule that expands and dilates your arteries, and

increases the flow of blood all around the body.

So, are beets a “superfood?” Maybe – it

depends what you consider a superfood. What is

clear is that beets are a great natural source of

nitrates that your body can use for energy, strength,

and all kinds of other potential health benefits.

Eating, juicing, or blending raw beets looks like it

can be very beneficial to many people.

Don’t forget, if you ever have any

questions or concerns about your health, talk to

us. Contact us with your questions. We’re here to

help and don’t enjoy anything more than

participating in providing you natural pain relief.

Tip Of The Month

Do You Want to Be More Productive and Successful?

A new study conducted by

researchers from the Centers

for Disease Control and

Prevention (CDC) shows the

ONE THING you do NOT

want to do if you want to be

as productive and successful

as possible. The study

reports employers in the

United States (US) lost $77

billion in 2010 thanks to

workers’ impaired productivity due to

excessive alcohol abuse – a number that

jumps to almost $90 billion once other

drinking-induced factors such as absenteeism

are added to the mix.

According to an article published by

Bloomberg, “The study came up with an even

more dire number for alcohol abuse’s effect

on the US economy overall that same year:

$249 billion, a number that includes not only

the lost-productivity toll, but also spending on

healthcare, crime, car crashes, and

alcohol-caused deaths. That

headache seems to be getting worse.

Back in 2006, the same cost to the

U.S. economy was $224 billion,

outpacing inflation…”

Study author Dr. Robert Brewer

adds, “The increase in the costs of

excessive drinking from 2006 to 2010

is concerning, particularly given the

severe economic recession that

occurred during these years.”

Clearly, excessive alcohol consumption

is one of the best ways to destroy your career

and health. Even if your career is not

negatively impacted to the point that you lose

your job, you may never be as successful as

you could be. The same is true when it comes

to your health. The damage from excessive

drinking often takes YEARS to rear its ugly

head and show symptoms.

Remember, we’re always here to help your body heal

and maintain the pain free body you deserve.

This information should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. Any and all health care concerns, decisions,

and actions must be done through the advice and counsel of a health care professional who is familiar with your updated

medical history.

One must be poor to know the luxury of giving.” ~ George Eliot

Did You Know?...

Three Ways to Boost Your Memory

Did you know that parts of your brain actually shrink as you grow older? It’s true. But it’s not as bad

as it seems. There are ways you can slow down this process and possibly even improve your brain power as

you age. It is commonly known that puzzles and crossword puzzles help retain memory power, but here are

three other things you can do that you may like better.

The first thing you can do is go for a walk. Research shows that going for a 40-minute walk three times

a week helps to increase the size of the hippocampus, the part of your brain responsible for memory formation.

Laugh! Studies show that laughing for approximately 20 minutes will boost your short-term memory.

Spend more time with the people who make you happy doing the things you love. That’s what life is really

about, anyway.

Listen to music! But wait, not just any music. Researchers found that

listening to classical music increased the brain wave activity linked to memory

retention and enhances your ability to concentrate and perform cognitive tasks.

When in doubt, stay active and remain positive. There is little doubt that

stress harms your body and brain in countless ways, and there is some truth to the

old saying, “laughter is the best medicine.” There are many things in life we

cannot control. Stop worrying about them and concentrate on the things you can

control. Being happy—in most cases—is a choice.

Product of the Month

Different from any other pillow on the market, the ULTIMA 2000 is the only pillow scientifically engineered to provide correct anatomical support whether sleeping on the back or the side!

The ULTIMA 2000 is even constructed differently. The patented design includes an innovative high tech internal sculpting of the side panels combined with a unique center design, which allows the neck to be supported and the head to lie at its proper angle whether sleeping on the back or the side.

Welcome New Patients

Mike F. from Glenshaw.

Tammie A. from Gibsonia. Referred by Leslie M. Thank You!

David B. from Allison Park. Referred by Lisa B. Thank You!

Tracey L. from Valencia. Referred by Kristine D. Thank You!

Christina C. from Allison Park. Referred by Dawn M. Thank You!

Sara M. from Glenshaw. Referred by Amy R. Thank You!

Darlene G. from Pittsburgh. Referred by Caroline P. Thank You!

Barb C. from Valencia. Referred by Jim C. Thank You!

Kathy D. from Gibsonia.

Laurie A. from Gibsonia.

Haley P. from Pittsburgh. Referred by Kathy J. Thank You!

John G. from Allison Park.

Abby A. from Gibsonia. Referred by Melanie A. Thank You!

Patient of the Month

Congratulations to Ruth D.! Ruth is December’s Patient of the Month and will receive a free 30 Minute Massage and a Restaurant Gift Certificate as a thank you for being an outstanding patient. Please watch for your name here in a coming month!

Patient News & Tidbits

Congratulations to Catherine C. on the newest addition to her family!

Welcome to baby girl, Asher! We are so happy for you!

Congratulations to Jim C. who won Our

Thanksgiving Holiday Basket! Hope You Enjoy!

Thank You for All of Your Food Bank Donations! We appreciate all

of your generous donations. There are many who benefit though the holiday season

because of you!

Congratulations to Sandy A., Winner of the Tom the Turkey Program. Thank you very much

for your referrals-Hope you enjoyed your fresh turkey from Mish’s!

Please join with us in donating a gift to the kids at Children’s Hospital

this Holiday! Collection bin is in the lobby now thru Dec. 19th!

Massage Matters by Kimberly Hanley, LMT

December 2015

Detox Massage: Lymphatic Drainage

Lifelong exposure to environmental pollutants, junk food, and

negative lifestyle habits contribute to the accumulation of toxins in

the human body. Your body has its own natural method of

detoxifying by means of the lymphatic system, but considering the

amount of pollutants modern humans are exposed to, your

lymphatic system might need some help.

Lymph drainage massage is a gentle style of bodywork that mimics

the movement of lymph vessels. Peripheral lymph vessels contract

at a rate of six to 10 contractions per minute, as a result, massage

movements are repeated at the same slow rate. There is a rich bed

of lymph capillaries immediately below the skin, so it

is not necessary to use deeper pressure to affect them. Lymph

massage therapists use a light touch, less than nine ounces per

square inch, in other words, the weight of a nickel. Lymph fluid is

drained toward lymph nodes in the neck, armpits and groin, before

traveling to the largest lymph vessels and back into the

cardiovascular system. Your therapist will massage your lymph

nodes first, and then will massage lymph toward the lymph nodes,

before massaging your trunk and extremities.

Lymph drainage massage stimulates the reproduction and circulation of white blood cells and

removes toxins from tissues, to be destroyed in lymph nodes. It reduces swelling which could

manifest as puffy eyelids or swollen joints. The number of white blood cells and natural killer

cells increases with regular massage. It also reduces stress, which is beneficial because chronic

stress inhibits the immune system, making you more susceptible to illness.

The detox massage that Kimberly has designed specifically for patients at Pettinato Chiropractic

and Wellness Center consists of Lymphatic Drainage, Lomi Lomi Massage and Raindrop

Therapy which utilizes very specific essential oils that are used to anoint the spine. This blend of

therapeutic modalities is incredibly effective in releasing toxic accumulations and bringing about

a profoundly deep relaxing feeling. You will find this therapy nowhere else. Ask for it by name.

Schedule this type of massage on a day when you don’t have to work, because, how your body

responds to this therapy will vary depending upon many factors. Call: 724-444-6644.

Pettinato Chiropractic Center

5476 William Flynn Hwy

Gibsonia, PA 15044 (724) 444-6644

Schedule Today for Our

HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

Monday December 21st 9am-6pm

Christmas Office Hours

Monday December 21st 9am – 6:30pm HOLIDAY PARTY!!!

Tuesday December 22nd 9am – 6:30 pm

Wednesday December 23rd 9am – 6:30 pm

Thursday December 24th Closed

Friday December 25th Closed

Saturday December 26th Closed

Monday December 28th 9am – 6:30 pm

Tuesday December 29th 9am – 6:30 pm

Wednesday December 30th 9am – 6:30pm

Thursday December 31st Closed

Friday January 1st Closed

Saturday January 2nd by Appointment Only

Please Take Note of Our Office Policy

Pettinato Chiropractic & Wellness Center values each and every patient that walks

through our door! To provide the best possible care and treatments in a timely

manner, we are asking in return that every patient adhere to our cancellation and

missed appointment policies. We require a 24 hour notification of any canceled

appointments. Any missed appointments will result in a $25.00 cancellation fee.

As we understand unexpected things arise and you are unable to keep your

appointment, please be aware that we have many other patients who would benefit

from that scheduled time and would like to be seen. As we try to accommodate all,

our time is as valuable as yours.

Thank you for your continued support. If you have any questions regarding this

matter please feel free to contact us!

Available at Pettinato Chiropractic

Center!!!

Purchase Your Friends, Family

& Loved Ones a Massage Gift

Certificate!!!

Massage offers Relaxation as well as Healing Properties! Enjoy

the Healthy Benefits of Massage!

2016 Massage Pricing & Specialty Massage

15 minute chair massages: $15

15 minute table massage: $20

30 minute table massage: $35

60 minute (1 hour) table massage: $65

90 minute (1 1/2 hour) table massage: $95 Lymphatic drainage: 30 minute

= $35, 1 hour = $65

Lomi Lomi massage: $90

Detox massage: $85

CALL TODAY and Schedule a

Healthy, Relaxation Massage!

(724) 444-6644

With Our Weight Loss Program that is Personalized to Your Metabolism!

1. We identify who you are, where you struggle with weight loss, what your body needs to burn fat and we will be collecting data through metabolic testing and blood work.

2. Plan Phase, you will receive Customized Nutritional Support & Supplementation, Meal Planning, and an Exercise Program!

3. Accountability, we’re here to support you! You will have a health coach, receive access to an application to track, monitor and record your calorie intake. You will be given all of the tools to help you Succeed on this Weight Loss Journey.

4. The Final Phase is the moving in the right direction phase where you will be given further instruction on how to be more physically fit. The perfect exercise program will be designed for YOU!

(you can start your program at any time)

Have You Been in an Accident???

You may be Suffering from

Whiplash- Learn to Manage Whiplash

Whiplash is a common injury that is often ignored or improperly treated due to a lack of understanding of the condition. Common whiplash symptoms include (but are not limited to) neck pain/stiffness, headache, shoulder pain and stiffness, dizziness, fatigue, jaw pain (TMJ symptoms), arm pain, numbness and/or weakness, visual disturbances, ringing in the ears (tinnitis), and back pain. In more severe cases, symptoms may include depression, anxiety, anger, frustration, stress, drug dependency, post-traumatic stress, sleep disturbance, sick leave, and lost productivity. Traumatic brain injury symptoms can include difficulty formulating thought, losing one’s place in conversation, fatigue, and “mental fog.” If litigation is involved, it can complicate the situation as well. While most people involved in car crashes recover quickly, some continue to experience symptoms that can last for years after the incident, and chronic pain can have devastating effects on an individual and his/her family.

A whiplash injury occurs as a result of a “crack the whip” mechanism that occurs very fast and before the muscles have time to react (within 300 milliseconds, which is too fast to voluntarily contract our muscles). About half-way through this process, the lower cervical spine extends while the upper half flexes resulting in significant pressure on the joint capsules in the lower half and the disks in the upper half of the neck. Recently, an interesting study found that there might a way to “trick” the neck muscles so they relax prior to the crash, thus reducing the amount of pressure exerted on the neck structures and potentially reduce the amount of tissue injury. A rear-end collision typically results in neck muscle contractions from a combination of postural and startle responses. Using surface EMG (electromyography) to measures muscle activity, researchers found that the superficial muscle tightness of the neck could be attenuated (decreased) by a loud tone (105dB) 250 milliseconds BEFORE impact. Then, they investigated whether the deep cervical spine stabilizing, involuntary muscles (specifically the multifidus) would respond similarly to a loud tone. (This is important because these muscles attach directly to the small facet joints located in the back of the spine and have the potential to increase the strain in the joint capsules during a crash and contribute to the whiplash injury.) The researchers subjected twelve study participants to simulated whiplash situations both with and without a loud tone. Their results suggest that a loud pre-impact tone may reduce the strain in the cervical spine facet joint capsules, which in turn may reduce the amount of tissue injury during a rear-end collision. These findings are exciting as the degree of injury may be reduced from using this tone prior to an impact.

Early range-of-motion types of care and exercises appear to result in better outcomes than the use of a cervical collar and rest. Similarly, manual therapies including early manipulation, mobilization, traction, and soft tissue therapies have also been demonstrated to produce better outcomes for whiplash patients. Chiropractic offers these treatment approaches to whiplash patients more frequently when compared with other healthcare professions. We also include patient education and advice on posture, proper bending, lifting, pulling and pushing methods, the use of ice over heat (especially initially), and many self-care, home-based treatment approaches. Exercises often include range-of-motion/stretching, cervical curve retraining, strengthening, stabilization exercises, and balance exercises. If dizziness is present, we can show you special exercises to help manage it. An emphasis of transitioning the patient to these active, self-managing approaches is truly appreciated by our patients!

We realize you have a choice in whom you consider for your health care provision and we sincerely appreciate your trust in choosing our service for

those needs. If you, a friend, or family member requires care for Whiplash, we would be honored to render our services.