Patty Powers

Hope for Alzheimer’s?

Those are two words that aren’t usually associated – Alzheimer’s and hope. The possibility of (or even worse, the diagnosis of) Alzheimer’s strikes fear in one’s heart, and in the hearts of those to whom we are connected. Modern medicine has not succeeded in finding a cure or a way to prevent the decline in

Pumpkin – A Superfood

Don’t be tricked – this popular Halloween gourd is actually one of the most nutritious fruits out there. (Yes, it’s a FRUIT!) Their orange hue is derived from beta-carotene, a provitamin that is converted to vitamin A in the body. Beta-carotene is essential for eye health, it’s immune-boosting properties, and has also been linked to

“In Memory of Bread: A Memoir” by Paul Graham (Book Review)

I just finished reading Paul Graham’s book chronicling his diagnosis of celiac disease, followed by 2 years of coming to terms with the elimination of all things gluten, from his world. He is an accomplished cook and was brewer of his own beer (but he gave that up with much regret after his diagnosis). I

Do you have enough testosterone?

We typically think of testosterone as the manly hormone, especially in regard to sexual function of men. Research shows that men with low testosterone, and even testosterone levels in the lower end of the normal range, have higher risks for diabetes, heart disease, cognitive dysfunction (poor brain function), bone density loss/osteoporosis, abnormal lipid lab tests.

How Healthy are You? Measuring pH

A lot of people rely on their annual physical and labwork to decide if they are healthy. Lungs sound good, heart ticking regularly, feeling pretty good… routine labs like chemistries, complete blood count, lipids good… therefore, all must be well, right? Well, maybe. But, maybe not! How can you tell how you are doing –

Thyroid Medication: Decisions, decisions, decisions!

If you need thyroid hormone, there are a number of options to choose from. In general, side effects are limited to the symptoms of hypothyroidism if you are not taking enough (dry skin, fatigue, weight gain, foggy brain, heavy periods, muscle aches, constipation, depression, feeling cold). If you take too much, then you might experience

What do my Thyroid Tests Mean?

Have you been told that your thyroid tests are normal, but you still wonder if something is not right? Are you confused with all of the test names and result ranges? Let me help you understand what those tests mean, and what they mean for you. The brain controls how much thyroid hormone is produced

Pain and Fatigue: Is it really Fibromyalgia, or is it something else?

Chronic, widespread pain and achiness, debilitating fatigue – most would get a diagnosis of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). But, before making that diagnosis, it is important to rule out other disorders that masquerade as fibromyalgia. Research shows that of people diagnosed with FMS, up to 66% may actually have another diagnosis. In classic FMS, people experience