Northwest Center for Optimal Health

04/02/2025

Interesting article showing administration of a few probiotics increased study participant sensitivity to injustice, and also decreased tyrosine levels, which are building blocks to adrenaline and thyroid hormone. We are learning more about how important the gut microbiome is every day!

A study measured the influence of gut microbiota on decision-making in men.

03/31/2025

While the Endocrine Society suggests against regular Vitamin D screening, and supplementing with 800IU daily, the NW Ctr doctors position is these recommendations fall short of what is needed to maintain health and prevent disease. We find regular screenings helps keep levels at optimal, and more that the RDAs are needed to keep physiology and immune function at best! Have you had your levels tested?

In its new evidence-based clinical practice guideline, the Endocrine Society recommends against routine 25(OH)D testing in the absence of indications and limiting vitamin D supplementation.

03/30/2025

Low Testosterone linked to increased risk of cardiovascular death.

03/29/2025

We've seen how cannabis or drugs derived from it can help with nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy. Now, a study shows regular use can produce nausea and vomiting, that resolves with abstinence.

03/28/2025

We've seen in practice how statin cholesterol medications raise A1C values. Now studies confirm they increase diabetes risk. Always talk to your NW Ctr physician about which alternatives may be right for you.

Large meta-analysis of individual participant data shows dose-dependent type 2 diabetes increase, but vascular benefit is greater.

03/27/2025

Lead remains in the water supply, fruit packets, and cinnamon! We recommend a good water filter, and buying organic whenever possible. You can always talk to your NW Ctr doctor about how to reduce your toxic burden.

New studies reveal lead in drinking water is still a problem, and clinicians may want to screen children for lead exposure.

03/26/2025

The continuous glucose monitors are gaining more popularity. They are a great source of information, but keep in mind some caveats. This article reminds of some limits.

Recently, the FDA approved the first OTC continuous glucose monitors. Beverly Tchang, MD, shares how these can be an important step toward personalized medicine.

03/06/2025

Those in pain know it chips away at you. Now, research suggests this to be true with our brains.

The consequences of chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) may extend well beyond physical discomfort, potentially leading to more rapid brain aging, new research shows.

03/04/2025

We recommend trying products as recommended by the environmental working group. at https://www.ewg.org/consumer-guides/guide-healthy-cleaning

Two classes of pervasive environmental chemicals that are present in household cleaners, furniture and electronics had "surprising" effects specifically on the non-nerve cells in the brain.

03/04/2025

Magnesium deficiency linked to several chronic diseases.

Magnesium deficiency was linked to an increased risk for metabolic syndrome proportional to the severity of the deficiency.

03/01/2025

Another study on how ultraprocessed foods causes harm.

Dietary strategies for patients with ulcerative colitis should focus on boosting the consumption of unprocessed or minimally processed foods.

02/28/2025

Although we recommend getting fiber from food, this interesting study shows benefit even from supplements. Make sure to take any fiber supplements away from medications and other dietary supplements as they can bind them and reduce their effectiveness.

As evidence accumulates in favour of sophisticated gut-brain interconnections, is there potential for prebiotics to modulate the gut microbiome and improve cognitive health?