Dr. Psenka’ s Blog
Welcome to Sugar Season!
Welcome to Sugar Season!
by Dr. Daniel Wool
It's December and the sweets are everywhere! It started with pumpkin spice lattes in September, Halloween candy, Thanksgiving feasts and now festive holiday treats.
Then we set weight loss goals in our New Year's Resolutions in January. Fail them by Valentine's Day (and eat chocolates and candy hearts to make us feel better). Then we wonder how our swimsuits are going to fit when the sun comes out in Spring.
While indulging in seasonal delights is a cherished tradition, it's essential to be mindful of the impact excessive holiday sugar consumption can have on our health -- and our Springtime body composition ambitions.
Blood Sugar Spikes:
During the holidays, sugary treats are abundant, from candy canes to festive cookies. However, the rapid influx of sugar into the bloodstream can lead to a spike in blood sugar levels. This spike is often followed by a crash, leaving individuals feeling fatigued, irritable, and craving more sugar to regain energy—a cycle that can contribute to insulin resistance over time.
Weight Gain and Metabolic Syndrome:
Holiday sweets, combined with hearty festive meals, can lead to an increase in calorie intake. The excess consumption of sugary foods and beverages can contribute to weight gain, and over time, may lead to the development of metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions, including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels.
Inflammation and Immune System Suppression:
A diet high in added sugars has been linked to chronic inflammation, which is associated with a variety of health problems, including cardiovascular disease and autoimmune disorders. Additionally, excessive sugar intake can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to seasonal illnesses during a time when staying healthy is crucial. In fact, sugar blunts our immune fighters - neutrophils - for 4-6 hours, letting our immune system unprotected from illness.
Impact on Mental Health:
While the holidays are often seen as a time of joy, excessive sugar intake can have negative effects on mental health. The sugar rollercoaster can contribute to mood swings, anxiety, and fatigue. Moreover, the link between high sugar consumption and an increased risk of depression is a growing concern.
So as the holiday season unfolds, it's crucial to savor the festivities without overindulging in sugary delights. Being mindful of sugar intake can help mitigate the risk of various health problems, from blood sugar fluctuations and beyond. Practicing moderation, choosing healthier alternatives, and prioritizing overall well-being during this festive season can pave the way for a healthier start to the new year. After all, the true sweetness of the holidays lies in the joy of shared moments and the gift of good health. And your Chambers Clinic doctor is always available when you need testing and a plan for your metabolic health.
Testimonials
“After being diagnosed with prostate cancer, I decided to seek independent advice and possible treatment in Arizona. He helped me digest the mountains of information and advice that I’d received from well-meaning naturopaths, urologists, family physicians and friends, as well as the multitude of reading that I had done on the subject. I recommend that you contact him if you find yourself in this dilemma. To this day, we continue to rely on his advice.
*** P.S. I am now 12 months free of cancer!”
“I first met Dr. Psenka after I finished my 3rd round of chemo for metastatic breast cancer. Our initial interview lasted over and hour and Dr. Psenka acted as though he would stay there all day if that is what it took to get all my questions answered. He has an incredible grasp of the mechanics of my disease and was very informative on what immune support, nutrition. and treatment he would recommend. I wish I would have started with his regime at the onset of my breast cancer, as I feel the outcome would have been different. I am stable now and my last PET showed no activity in my bone lesions. The nutritional support has kept me as healthy as one could be having the chemo/radiation that I’ve had. I work full time and lead and active life. I see my oncologist regularly, as well as Dr. Psenka. I feel this gives me the best advantage I am going to have to survive. I would encourage anyone with an early diagnosis of cancer to consider alternative therapies along with their chemo. Dr. Psenka and his staff are a great team and a remarkable resource to help anyone through this difficult diagnosis.”
I appreciated that Dr. Psenka was unhurried and happy to spend as much time as was needed to discuss our concerns, answer as many questions as came up, and explain his philosophy and approach to treating YOU. He was approachable and listened… rather than just talked/lectured. I get the feeling that he’s always thinking head of the “what if’s” and “how to’s”. I know one thing for sure… I would want him on my team!” -from a friend of a patient who participated in the initial consultation”
About Us
Dr. Psenka continues to practice integrative cancer medicine today, and after nearly 20 years of practice, has extensive experience combining naturopathic therapies with conventional cancer care. Dr. Psenka believes in educating his patients about their condition and treatment options so that they can be an active participant in their own care.
Contact Information
20801 N Scottsdale Rd., Suite 205
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
(480) 903-8457
info@chambersclinic.com
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