Helpful Blogs Dedicated to Your Health and Wellness

Mitochondrial Dysfunction Can Be The Overlooked Root Cause of Chronic Symptoms

Sat, 01 Nov 2025 14:31:39 GMT

Mitochondrial Dysfunction: The Overlooked Root Cause of Chronic Symptoms

I often remind my patients that true healing begins at the cellular level. One of the most overlooked yet essential components of cellular health is the mitochondria—tiny powerhouses that fuel nearly every function in your body. When these structures are compromised, the ripple effects can manifest as fatigue, brain fog, poor immunity, and even chronic illness. In my practice, I’ve seen remarkable improvements in energy, mood, and resilience simpl y by supporting mitochondrial function through targeted nutrition and lifestyle shifts.

-Dr. Louis Granirer

Is Mitochondrial Dysfunction a Hidden Cause of Your Health Issues?

Mitochondria are tiny, powerful structures inside almost every cell in your body (except mature red blood cells). Often called the energy storehouses or “engines” of the cell, their main job is to produce energy.

They convert nutrients and oxygen into ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body’s universal energy currency. When ATP releases its phosphate bonds, energy is liberated and used to power every cellular process.

Healthy mitochondria are essential for metabolism, energy production, cellular repair, longevity, brain health, and overall vitality. When they falter, your body feels it, often in subtle yet far-reaching ways.

What Causes Mitochondrial Dysfunction?

A range of factors can trigger mitochondrial dysfunction:

1. Infections

Viral and bacterial infections can interfere with mitochondrial energy production. Viruses such as COVID-19, Epstein-Barr, and Cytomegalovirus, as well as chronic post-viral syndromes, are known contributors. Tick-borne infections like Borrelia (Lyme disease), Babesia, Bartonella, and Ehrlichia can also disrupt mitochondrial function.

2. Microbiome Imbalances and Fungal Overgrowth

Gut dysbiosis, parasites , mycoplasmas, and fungal overgrowth (such as Candida ) can all impair mitochondrial function and trigger systemic inflammation.

3. Environmental Toxins

Exposure to mold (mycotoxins), pesticides, air pollution, and heavy metals such as mercury, aluminum, cadmium, and lead can block mitochondrial processes, shutting down cellular energy production.

4. Poor Nutrition

Inflammatory foods like sugars, nutrient deficiencies, and food sensitivities can stress mitochondria and weaken their ability to generate ATP. Many people aren’t aware of their food sensitivities , so this can be hard to manage without that knowledge.

5. Medications

Certain drugs have been linked to mitochondrial dysfunction, including NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen), acetaminophen, select chemotherapy agents, certain beta blockers, antipsychotics, and some antibiotics.

6. Genetic Factors

Mitochondrial dysfunction can also have a genetic component, including single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) or mutations in mitochondrial or nuclear DNA.

Conditions and Symptoms Linked to Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Mitochondrial issues are associated with many chronic conditions, such as:

Neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease
Chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia
Diabetes and metabolic syndrome
Autoimmune conditions
Certain cancers

Common Symptoms of Mitochondrial Dysfunction

These symptoms, including low energy, chronic fatigue, muscle pain, brain fog, poor memory, insomnia, mood imbalance, frequent infections, digestive issues, tingling or numbness, tinnitus, poor circulation, and headaches, may all be signs of mitochondrial dysfunction.

How to Identify Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Muscle testing can help assess whether your mitochondria need support.

Laboratory testing may include markers like citrate, malate, lactate, pyruvate, or ATP function tests, all of which can indicate mitochondrial inefficiency.

Supporting and Repairing Your Mitochondria

The key to restoring mitochondrial health is addressing root causes:

Toxicity, infections, nutrient depletion, and systemic inflammation.

Working with a practitioner who can identify your unique imbalances and create a tailored support plan allows the body to repair naturally and effectively. Here are the core areas of mitochondrial focus:

1. Balance Stress and Sleep

Healthy sleep and a consistent circadian rhythm are vital for mitochondrial repair. Regulating cortisol and improving vagal tone through breathwork, meditation, humming, or Solfeggio frequencies (such as 528 Hz or 639 Hz) can help restore balance.

2. Move Your Body

Mitochondria thrive on regular movement. Activities like brisk walking, yoga, tai chi, qi gong, or strength training help stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis, the creation of new, healthy mitochondria.

3. Nourish with the Right Foods

Whole, nutrient-rich foods are mitochondrial medicine, such as:

Proteins: Grass-fed and pasture-raised meats, wild-caught salmon (rich in creatine, essential for ATP production)
Fats: Avocado, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, and lactose-free ghee
Fruits & Veggies: Pomegranate, berries, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli
Legumes: Black beans and kidney beans for fiber and nutrients

(Vegetarians and vegans may need to supplement creatine because there is no creatine in plant-based foods. Muscle testing is recommended to assess compatibility.)

4. Use Targeted Nutritional Support

Certain nutrients can dramatically improve mitochondrial function. Commonly supportive supplements include: CoQ10, PQQ, Nicotinamide Riboside, Resveratrol, Alpha Lipoic Acid, D-Ribose, NAC, Riboflavin (B2), and Carnitine.

Summary

Muscle testing ensures the right nutrient combination for your individual needs. The science behind these nutrients continues to expand rapidly, and it is nice that the science has caught up with the patient outcomes that I have been witnessing for many years. Your mitochondria are the foundation of your energy, resilience, and longevity. When they function optimally, every system in your body benefits.

The Circadian Rhythm and How It Affects Your Overall Health

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 18:23:05 GMT

The Circadian Rhythm and How It Affects Your Overall Health

As we approach the time of year when the clocks fall back, it's a perfect opportunity to discuss our internal body clocks and how light and darkness influence our physiological processes.

- Dr. Louis Granirer

What Is the Circadian Rhythm?

The circadian rhythm is our body's 24-hour internal clock, regulating numerous behavioral and physiological processes, including sleep cycles, hormone release, and body temperature. Many of my clients are aware that I frequently assess whether their circadian rhythm is functioning properly.

One simple test I use involves a muscle test of the rectus femoris, while a patient contacts near the sphenoid bones to check for circadian imbalance. If weakness is observed, a UV light is applied to the glabella point for one minute. This can help restore the circadian rhythm to balance.

The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), located in the hypothalamus, serves as the master biological clock. It coordinates with accessory clocks located in various organs and tissues, which are influenced by factors like meal timing. The SCN is most directly influenced by light.

In Chinese medicine, each two-hour period is associated with the activity of a specific organ, gland, or meridian. If a client reports symptoms at a consistent time daily, it can provide clues about which organs or glands may need support. For example, one patient reported headaches consistently around 12 a.m. The gallbladder's peak activity is between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m., and muscle testing indicated his gallbladder required support. Further medical diagnostic testing revealed the presence of large gallstones. The patient's headaches resolved with gallbladder nutritional supplementation support and the breakdown of the gallstones.

The accessory circadian rhythms are revealed through the timing of physiological processes and their respective organs.

Heart: Blood pressure tends to be lower at night during sleep.

Kidneys: Filtration rate and urination follow a circadian pattern, with less urination at night.

Pancreas: Insulin secretion and enzyme release vary throughout the day.

Cortisol hormone: Peaks in the early morning to help you wake, gradually declines midday, with a smaller peak around 4 p.m., and reaches its lowest level around midnight.

Melatonin: Governs sleep and is inversely related to cortisol; as cortisol declines, melatonin rises.

Why Light Matters

Your circadian rhythm depends on cues from light and darkness. Excessive light after sunset disrupts the rhythm and has been linked to mood disorders, anxiety, depression, immune dysregulation, obesity, high blood pressure, and metabolic disorders.

Shift workers often experience disruptions to their circadian rhythms, which can negatively impact their health. Nutrition and supplementation can support circadian balance and help mitigate these effects.

Meal Timing and Circadian Health

Many patients ask me about the best time to eat. While individual needs vary, studies indicate that skipping breakfast can have a negative impact on metabolic factors, including cholesterol and triglycerides. Intermittent fasting is popular for weight loss and health, but research suggests eating breakfast between 7:30 and 10 a.m. has the most positive metabolic impact. Dinner is ideally eaten earlier in the evening.

Ways to Support Your Circadian Rhythm

Morning Sun Exposure - I use the circadian app to determine peak UVA times. The app is free to get the basic UVA and UVB rise and set times. Go outside and look slightly below the Sun (the Sun should be at 30 degrees; do not look directly at the Sun) for at least 5 minutes. Timing varies depending on the season. Currently, between 7:30ish a.m. and 9:00 a.m. is a good time to do this. You should avoid this when the UVB levels rise. Ensure you are not wearing glasses or contact lenses. This balances the pineal gland and SCN, helping reset your circadian rhythm—especially important after seasonal time changes or for jet lag. Numerous studies have shown an increase in immune factors after doing this practice over a 4-week period.

Limit Blue Light at Night: Use blue-light-blocking filters or glasses for your phone, laptop, and tablet to reduce exposure to blue light at night. Avoid screens an hour before bedtime.

Dim the Lights After Sunset: Use blackout curtains or blinds to support darkness cues.

Mind Meal Timing: Finish your last meal 2.5–3 hours before bedtime and don't skip breakfast.

Reset After Time Changes: If you are coming into the office after "fall back" or "spring forward" and traveling to different time zones, ask me about resetting your circadian rhythm.

Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about your wellness goals, which may include a personalized circadian rhythm support plan.

Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) and Anti-Aging

Mon, 05 May 2025 23:02:48 GMT

Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) and Anti-Aging

Patients who have followed my nutritional protocols consistently for years often show marked improvement in biological age. Many of my octogenarian patients are not only thriving, but they’re also healthier than they were a decade ago.

- Dr. Louis Granirer

Aging is inevitable, but how we age is not. While we all know our chronological age and the number of candles on our gluten/dairy-free birthday cake, our biological age can tell a very different story. Biological age reflects how well or poorly our body functions compared to the average person our age. One person may be 50 chronologically but biologically 40. Another may also be 50 but biologically 65.

Unlike chronological age, biological aging is shaped by a complex interplay of internal and external factors. These include DNA methylation, systemic inflammation (such as C-reactive protein levels), liver detoxification efficiency (Phase 1 and 2), blood sugar regulation, maximum aerobic pulse, resting heart rate, grip strength, mobility, muscle mass, skin elasticity, and the presence or absence of chronic conditions.

In the Journal of Aging (March 2023; 22:15(6):1833–1839), a study titled “Potential Reversal of Biological Age in Women Following an 8-Week, Methylation-Supportive Diet and Lifestyle Program” showed an average biological age reduction of 4.6 years. The participants followed a protocol that included nutritional supplementation, exercise, and sleep and relaxation guidance. One participant saw a remarkable 11.01-year decrease in biological age, after just 8 weeks.

In my own practice, I’ve seen similar results. Patients who have followed my nutritional protocols consistently for years often show marked improvement in biological age. Many of my octogenarian patients are not only thriving, but they’re also healthier than they were a decade ago.

Everyday lifestyle choices—what we eat, how much we move, how we manage stress, the quality of our sleep, and the strength of our social connections, play a significant role in how we age.

One enzyme gaining increasing attention in the field of aging is AMPK (adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase). AMPK helps maintain cellular energy balance by sensing low energy levels and activating processes that generate energy, such as glucose and fatty acid uptake and oxidation. It also inhibits energy-consuming processes like fat synthesis and plays a crucial role in mitochondrial biogenesis. AMPK is primarily expressed in the liver, brain, and skeletal muscle and is activated through physical exertion.

The activation of AMPK promotes:

Fatty acid oxidation and ketogenesis in the liver
Fatty acid oxidation and glucose uptake in skeletal muscle
Inhibition of cholesterol and triglyceride synthesis
Modulation of insulin secretion
Reduction of systemic inflammation
Support for mitochondrial function and cellular cleanup through autophagy.
Improved insulin sensitivity and metabolic health
Potential protection of DNA and telomeres

In my practice, I focus heavily on reducing chronic inflammation , which is the cornerstone of any effective anti-aging strategy. This is why many of my protocols yield noticeable anti-aging effects.

AMPK also mimics the effects of dietary restriction, such as intermittent fasting. While fasting isn’t suitable for everyone, AMPK can also be supported through diet and supplementation. Avoiding substances like sugar and palmitic acid (found in palm oil and processed foods) can enhance AMPK activity. Interestingly, the diabetes medication metformin also increases AMPK, and while it’s used in some anti-aging protocols, it can deplete nutrients and has a long list of side effects.

There are many natural ways to support AMPK, including:

Barberries
Black cumin
Apple cider vinegar
Hibiscus and lemon verbena tea
Soluble fiber (e.g., butyrate)
Resveratrol (from Japanese knotweed, berries, and grape skins/seeds)
EGCG (in green tea)
Curcumin (from turmeric)
Omega-3 fatty acids
Leucine (a branched-chain amino acid)
NAD+
Flavonoids like hesperidin (found in the peel and white pith of citrus fruits)

New research continues to uncover nutritional compounds that may help reverse the effects of aging. If you have questions about supporting your body with an anti-aging strategy, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Can Alzheimer's Disease Be Prevented?

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 19:08:35 GMT

Can Alzheimer's Disease Be Prevented?

In 2023, over 6 million people were diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD). AD affects 1 in 9 people aged 65 and older. Early onset Alzheimer's disease affects people in their 40s and 50s and accounts for approximately 5 to 10 percent of all AD cases. Recent research in AD highlights two main mechanisms of progression. One being neuro-inflammation and the other being insulin resistance, which is why some have labeled AD as a form of type 3 diabetes.

The neuro-inflammation mechanism involves the role of microglia, which are brain macrophage like immune cells responsible for the eradication and clean up of microbes, harmful proteins, unnecessary synapses, and particulates that may endanger the central nervous system. Microglia's role is intended for protection, but may be contributing to the inflammatory process and excessive neuro-inflammation.

In the 1980s, Neuroscientist, Dr. Rudolph Tanzi discovered the amyloid protein precursor (APP) gene involved in the production of amyloid beta protein, which is present in the brains of patients with AD. Amyloid proteins form amyloid plaques in the brain and accumulate outside of brain cells. They disrupt cell-to-cell signaling and lead to inflammation and cell death.

Dr. Tanzi proposes that the amyloid protein is intended to block and envelope microbes like viruses, bacteria, and fungus in the brain. The amyloid causes the microglia to become overactive. It's the excitatory microglia that assumes an infection is spreading and beginning to create neuro-inflammation, effectively destroying parts of the brain.

This theory is fundamental in explaining the connection between the microbiome and brain. If one has an overgrowth of candida, fungus, bacterial imbalance, certain viruses, parasites etc. we know this causes deleterious effects on the body. This quantifies the importance of detoxification, eradication and balance of the microbiome to effectively protect the brain. Microglia are protective in nature, but when the body is overrun by certain microorganisms we can see how this can negatively impact the brain.

Another hallmark of AD is the Tau protein. Tau is a protein that forms tangles inside brain cells that disrupt the normal functioning and regulation of brain cells. Tau proteins become hyper-phosphorylated, meaning they accumulate an excessive number of phosphate groups.

Approximately 30 genes have been discovered that are associated with Alzheimer's disease. They include PSEN1 and PSEN2. Mutations in these particular genes are linked to early onset Alzheimer's. TREM2 gene variation is another gene associated with AD. TREM2 gene mutations can impair the function of microglia, leading to a greater progression of AD.

APOE4 is probably the most recognized gene associated with AD. APOE4 is a plasma lipoprotein which plays a role in the degradation of particles rich in triglycerides and cholesterol. APOE4 is associated with higher LDL cholesterol and an increase in amyloid plaque formation. Every person inherits two alleles of APOE from each parent. There are six possible combinations and those that have inherited 2 alleles of APOE4 have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease.

Boyd Hayley, a University of Kentucky biochemist, researches heavy metal toxicity related to the nervous system. He has studied the critical role that the APOE gene plays in the removal of heavy metals from the brain, including mercury. APOE2, APOE3 have heavy metal clearance abilities, however, APOE4 does not have the same ability to clear mercury and heavy metals out of the brain. If a person inherits two alleles of APOE4 then they have a lesser ability to remove heavy metals from the brain. This explains why some researchers have implicated heavy metal toxicity and chemical toxicity as a possible contributor to Alzheimer's disease.

In the type 3 diabetes model of AD, research suggests that insulin resistance in the brain may be a strong correlative factor to the formation of beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles intracellularly. Insulin resistance leads to inflammation and oxidative stress, which contributes to nervous system damage and decline.

There are many things that can be implemented in your life to support brain health. Here are some that can be very helpful.

Sleep is essential to detox the brain. Getting a minimum of 6 and a half hours of sleep a night is important for the proper detoxification of the brain. Ideally you are getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night. The best brain detoxification hours are between 10:30 to 3:00 a.m.

Exercise is essential for neurogenesis (creating new neurons in the brain) in the hippocampus, The hippocampus is the first area in the brain that is attacked by Alzheimer's disease and is involved with learning, memory, emotional regulation, and the modulation of stress. In particular, balancing exercises are anti-aging and stimulate the brain. Alternating between standing on one foot is a simple balancing exercise.

Learning new things creates new synapses which helps the brain to function optimally. Podcasts and reading are a great way to learn new things. Learning a new language, to play an instrument, or even a new game is a great way to create new synapses.

Supporting the microbiome by identifying microbial imbalances is essential in supporting the gut-brain connection. If you have high levels of fungus, candida, mold, yeasts, reactivated or post viral syndrome, parasites, spirochetes, bacteria and other microbes they can be contributing to neuro-inflammation and negatively impact the brain. Muscle testing identifies microbiome imbalances and what an individual needs to provide support for their microbiome.

It's important to identify if there is a need to detoxify from heavy metals, environmental pollutants, and chemicals. These impact the brain. Chelation (heavy metal detoxification) may be necessary for some that are overburdened by heavy metal and chemical toxicity. Supplements of binders and chelators may be helpful for certain individuals.

An anti-inflammatory diet is extremely important to support the brain. Everyone on this planet has at least one food sensitivity, and the great majority of people are never tested to identify them. Food sensitivities cause inflammation in the body. Muscle testing is an easy way to determine if you are sensitive to a certain food. Foods with allegic acid like those found in pomegranate and strawberries are very supportive for the brain. Quercetin is also very supportive and is found in capers and other food sources. Herbs like rosemary provide great brain support.

There have been studies on certain supplements in supporting the brain. MCT coconut oil can be helpful support for AD patients. Nicotinamide Riboside, which is a precursor to NAD+, has been studied and found to support neurogenesis (the formation of new brain cells) in the hippocampus. The hippocampus is the primary area of the brain that is affected by Alzheimer's.

Saffron, bacopa, Ashwagandha, and turmeric are some other supplements that can be helpful. Everyone is different in their genetic requirements and this is why getting tested for your individual requirements is the best way to have the most success with any supplement protocol.

The Thyroid Acts As Your Second Brain

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 17:57:42 GMT

The Thyroid Acts As Your Second Brain

The Thyroid gland has the extremely important task of maintaining homeostasis in the body. It plays a major role in metabolism, energy, endocrine balancing, emotional balancing, immune function, data collection, using body fat and glucose stores, heart rate, neuromuscular function, body temperature, brain chemistry, and influences every cell in the body.

The thyroid gland is located just below the larynx in the neck region. It primarily produces the hormones T3, T4, and Calcitonin. The second most prescribed medication in the United States is a synthetic form of T4, also known as Levothyroxine or Synthroid. When the TSH level is high, indicating hypothyroid, generally above 4.5 for most labs, many medical doctors suggest a patient takes synthetic T4. What isn't being addressed is why the body is not producing adequate T4 and why T4 isn't being converted to T3 properly. This approach is a band-aid and may be necessary in certain situations, but it does not support the underlying cause of the thyroid imbalance.

There are many reasons why the thyroid may not produce adequate amounts of T4 or T3. The thyroid is influenced by other endocrine glands, such as the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which reside in the brain. If the hypothalamus is not functioning properly and not producing adequate amounts of TRH, then thyroid hormone production could be impaired. TRH is produced in the hypothalamus and tells the pituitary to secrete thyroid-stimulating hormone or TSH. In this case, a practitioner would want to address the hypothalamus and pituitary imbalance to support the thyroid.

Another reason the thyroid gland may not produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormones is because of vitamin, mineral, and amino acid deficiencies. Tyrosine, iodine, and specific vitamins help with the production of T4. Vitamins and minerals essential for proper thyroid hormone production and conversion are selenium, B vitamins, Vitamin D, and zinc. Most people are not getting adequate nutrients from their diet and have vitamin, mineral, and amino acid deficiencies.

An important premise for proper thyroid hormone balance is the conversion of T4 into T3. This conversion occurs primarily in the liver, kidneys, and intestines. Gut microbiota assists in this conversion. Your thyroid may be impacted if you have a leaky gut or dysbiosis (microbiome imbalances). Our gut microbes assist in this conversion and should be supported to help the thyroid to heal. The liver and kidneys should be supported as well in many thyroid cases.

The adrenal glands , also known as the body's stress glands, directly impact the thyroid gland as well. In fact, they act as the motor to the thyroid gland. If your motor is not working well, you will not get very far. Many hypothyroid cases can be traced back to the adrenal glands. If you give the adrenals the proper support they need and address the underlying causes of the adrenal imbalance, many thyroid cases will resolve.

Certain thyroid cases are not identified through standard blood work. Please ensure you get a full thyroid blood work panel for the thyroid, including Tsh, T4, free T4, free T3, Reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies. Most medical professionals do not test for Reverse T3 and thyroid antibodies, and these values are very important when analyzing thyroid function. Sometimes, these numbers are within the normal range, but the thyroid still requires support. Remember, everyone is different, and sometimes their blood values may differ from the general range in the population.

Food sensitivities directly impact the thyroid gland. In my 23 years of practice, I have not supported a patient with thyroid imbalance who doesn't have an issue with gluten. Synthroid or Levoxythroxine may not be gluten-free. Tyrosint is a gluten-free medication alternative to Synthroid. Nature thyroid and amour thyroid are very good alternatives to synthetic hormones.

The nightshade family of foods often affects the thyroid. The neurotoxin solanine, found in the nightshade family, is frequently the culprit that negatively impacts the thyroid. Muscle testing for food sensitivities can determine what foods to avoid. If a food changes the muscle reflex test, it impacts the body negatively and contributes to inflammation and dis-ease in the body.

If you have hypothyroid, it's a good idea to decrease foods with thiourea, such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kohlrabi, peanuts, and soybeans. If you have hyperthyroid, eating foods high in thiourea from the list above is good, and avoiding bananas and oats.

The halides greatly impact the thyroid. These include chlorine, fluoride, and bromine. Make sure you use a shower filter that eliminates chlorine, and the same goes for drinking and cooking. Use water filtration to remove chlorine and fluoride. The halide family binds to iodine receptors and replaces iodine, essential for thyroid function.

Organs and glands have referral pain patterns. The thyroid refers to pain in the neck. Many people who have chronic neck pain actually have an underlying thyroid imbalance. In specific individuals, supporting the thyroid may reduce inflammation and help relieve their neck pain.

The body can not be separated into parts. Every organ and gland interacts and affects each other. The thyroid is no different and should be treated as part of the whole. In my many years of clinical practice, I have helped thousands of people with thyroid support by identifying underlying imbalances and supporting the whole body.

Please contact me with any questions regarding thyroid support and optimal wellness.

What You Should Know About Cholesterol

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 17:55:47 GMT

What You Should Know About Cholesterol

Most people, including health care practitioners, do not understand the whole story when it comes to cholesterol. Cholesterol has been vilified for decades. Most people have a similar reaction when they hear the word and equate it with being bad. Read on, because there is much more to this story that I am happy to share.

Most people, including health care practitioners, do not understand the whole story when it comes to cholesterol. Cholesterol has been vilified for decades. Most people have a similar reaction when they hear the word and equate it with being bad. There is much more to this story that I am happy to share.

Cholesterol is a type of lipid that is vital to our bodies. It is the building block for cell membranes, steroid hormones, bile salts, conversion of vitamin D, immune system support, nervous system support for myelin and the synapse, serotonin receptors, repairing damage to blood cell walls, endothelial support, and even binds to microorganisms and toxins.

Your body makes about 3,000 mg of cholesterol per day. Approximately 2000 mg is synthesized in the liver, and 1000 mg is synthesized in the rest of the body, including the brain, adrenal glands, and the sex organs. There is a compensation mechanism in the body if you have a healthy liver. When you ingest cholesterol, and it is absorbed, then your liver produces less, and if you consume less cholesterol, then with a healthy liver, it will produce more.

Cholesterol is transported by lipoproteins. Lipoproteins are ULDL (ultra low-density lipoproteins), VLDL (very low-density lipoproteins), ILDL (intermediate low-density lipoproteins), LDL (low-density lipoproteins), and HDL (high-density lipoproteins).

The majority of blood work analyzing cholesterol includes HDL, LDL, VLDL, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and cholesterol/HDL ratio. When a person's LDL value goes above 200, this is considered high cholesterol and potentially a problem. This is not entirely accurate. If cholesterol is increasing, a practitioner should try to determine why. The liver, thyroid, pancreas, and gut should all be taken into consideration, as well as foods that can be contributing to the increase.

LDL can be broken down even further into (lbLDL) large buoyant ldl, and (sdLDL) small density ldl. The most up-to-date research indicates that the latter, sdLDL, is most closely associated with a risk of heart disease. This is because it infiltrates the arteries, and since it's a small size, it makes it easier for it to get through the membrane. This is opposed to the large buoyant LDL, which is larger and can't infiltrate in the same way. The (sdLDL) small buoyant LDL is related to a high carbohydrate and sugar diet.

The small buoyant LDL contains oxidized cholesterol, and this type of cholesterol sticks to the arterial wall and is closely related to arteriosclerosis. Oxidized cholesterol is produced from fried foods. If you fry an egg, you are increasing the oxidized cholesterol. The healthiest way to prepare an egg is poaching. This limits the amount of oxidized cholesterol.

This following statement might be surprising, but chicken has significantly more oxidized cholesterol than beef. Many doctors tell their patients to cut down on red meat and eat chicken. This may not be the best advice as the LDL numbers may reduce, but the percentage of oxidized cholesterol may increase.

Lipoprotein A is another variant of the LDL that should be assessed, as it is a risk factor for heart disease. This is a highly genetic factor and should not be more than 25 percent of the total LDL blood value. It is associated with the formation of clots. The main purpose of lipoprotein A is to protect arteries if there is a deficiency in the body, like vitamin C, but at high levels, lipoprotein A is problematic.

HDL should also be considered, in addition to LDL. Most see this as good cholesterol, and higher numbers can be associated with a decreased risk of arteriosclerosis. HDL is separated into HDL2 and HDL3. HDL 2 is associated with a decreased risk of coronary heart disease. HDL3 is associated with inflammation. Low levels of HDL are associated with brain and nervous system impairment.

To properly assess cardiac and arteriosclerosis risk, it is important to include these values in your blood work: Triglycerides, LDL total, Lipoprotein A, small buoyant LDL, Large buoyant LDL, Total HDL, HDL2, HDL3, HDL/total cholesterol ratio, CRP (an important inflammatory marker), ferritin (high iron has deleterious effects on the heart), fasting blood sugar level and fasting insulin level.

Ideally, triglyceride levels should be between 60 and 100. The medical normal range goes up to 150. Triglycerides are the fat in the blood, and I think that 150 is too high. The HDL/total cholesterol ratio should be between 24 to 34 percent. The LDL number depends on the SbLDL, LbLDL, and lipoprotein A.

There are many natural herbs and vitamins that have been widely researched to have beneficial effects on LDL, lipoprotein A, and HDL. These include, but are not limited to, berberine, bergamot, Schisandra, tulsi, niacin, vitamin C, turmeric, COQ10, guggul, codonopsis extract, DHA/EPA, etc.

Foods that can have a beneficial impact on cholesterol levels are flaxseeds, avocado, kiwi, cloves, cinnamon, buckwheat, berries, the Mediterranean diet, nuts, and seeds.

Stop eating white rice potatoes (red, white, and blue varieties), sugar, fried and processed foods, baked goods, fried eggs, and polyunsaturated fatty acid oils to lower cholesterol and triglycerides.

If you have any questions or would like support for balancing cholesterol, supporting your circulatory system, and your overall health, please feel free to reach out to me.

Should Everyone Take A Probiotic?

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 10:55:39 GMT

Should Everyone Take A Probiotic?

How to use probiotics for optimum gut health.

Probiotics are mostly bacteria but can be other microorganism species, like yeast species, that are considered beneficial to your health and microbiome. Your digestive tract hosts an estimated 100 trillion microorganisms, and we actually have more bacteria in our bodies than we have cells. Bacteria are essential to help our bodies function optimally. Taking a probiotic can change the microbiome's composition by introducing certain beneficial microorganisms into our digestive tract.

Many different strains of probiotics and combinations of species in different probiotic products are marketed by the many nutritional companies that sell them. Some probiotic products have as little as one strain of microorganisms, and others can have ten or more strains. I have rarely found that probiotic products with many strains, muscle test, and work well for my patients. When I test a patient for a probiotic, most probiotic products that test well have no more than 4 or 5 strains. I believe that too many strains can compete with each other and, in some people, be a problem.

When I work with the microbiome, I muscle test for microorganism imbalance—such as an overgrowth of fungus, parasitic species , bacteria, rickettsia, protozoa, amoeba, spirochetes, viruses, etc. In order to have the most impact on gut health, it is extremely important to eliminate the overgrowth of harmful microorganisms. This is achieved through anti-microbial supplementation. Once the microbiome is balanced, some people may require a probiotic for the stability of the gut, but many people do not. They may require certain supplements that feed the existing bacteria and maintain the existing microbial balance, but not by introducing a certain microbial strain or strains to the gut.

Prebiotics, as opposed to probiotics, are a class of substances that help feed the good bacteria. A common prebiotic is inulin; I have found this can increase the effectiveness of certain probiotic strains. Certain foods like asparagus and artichokes act as prebiotics and feed the good bacteria.

Muscle testing can determine whether a patient requires a probiotic, the strain (or multiple strain) product that best matches their microbiome, and the dosage and frequency. Without some form of testing, it is a guessing game at best as to what probiotic aligns with a patient's microbiome. Our genetics influence what strains are best for us. One person may do better with a lactobacillus species, while another may require another species like Bifidobacterium.

Researchers at the University of Virginia School of Medicine recently discovered that Lactobacillus species dampened the stress response and helped to regulate moods associated with anxiety and depression. This was reported in the Dec. 3rd, 2023 Sci Tech Daily. This research from Alan Gaultier, Ph., and his team was able to explain how Lactobacillus influences behavior and how a lack of lactobacilli can worsen depression and anxiety.

The lactobacilli were found to modulate levels of an immune mediator called Interferon-gamma. Lactobacilli is found in fermented foods. Fermented foods in moderation can be an excellent addition to the diet as long as you are not sensitive to tyramine. Tyramine is one of the food chemicals that I include in my food sensitivity muscle testing, so that's an example of how one size does not fit all with regard to diet and supplementation.

Lactobacillus acidophilus can help to support ulcerative colitis patients. Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri can support women's urogenital system. Lactobacillus casei and paracasei can support blood sugar imbalances. Bifidobacterium brevi has been shown to help with the immune response.

Some of the best foods to get the benefit of Lactobacilli are buckwheat, apples, walnuts, artichokes, and fermented foods such as sauerkraut and pickles. Pickles, when they are truly fermented, which is usually noted on the container, are generally found in refrigerators at grocery and health food stores. (Most products on non-refrigerated shelves these days are not truly fermented.)

Saccharomyces boulardi is a yeast that acts as a probiotic, and previous research has shown its benefit in helping with candida, eczema, and diarrhea—a 2019 study by F Briand et al. Benef Microbes concluded the beneficial effect on cholesterol and triglycerides from Saccharomyces boulardi.

Probiotics can be a helpful addition to a supplement protocol, but not everyone should take them. Muscle testing is essential to determine the correct supplement protocol and duration of any supplement, which is the most beneficial way to determine if something is right for you.

Linoleic Acid and Its Impact On Your Health

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 16:35:48 GMT

Linoleic Acid and Its Impact On Your Health

Learn about Linoleic Acid and its impact on your health from Holistic Chiropractor Dr. Louis Granirer.

In my practice, I focus on identifying food sensitivities to help my patients reduce inflammation , decrease food related bodily "dis-ease," and to help to optimize their overall health. Foods can be medicinal or cause toxic overload, depending on our genetics and our acquired health status. Food science has identified more seemingly healthy foods that can be a culprit of underlying inflammation in the body.

Excessive polyunsaturated fatty acids, or PUFAs, which were once considered relatively healthy, are now being scrutinized as a leading cause of inflammation. PUFAs lack a hydrogen atom and instead have at least one double bond in their carbon chain. Double bonds are weaker than single bonds, more prone to oxidation, and more prone to lose an electron. They are liquid at room temperature. Examples are safflower oil, grape seed oil, and other seed oils. Saturated fats have a complete chain without double bonds and are more stable. They are solid at room temperature. Coconut oil is a saturated fat.

PUFAs are primarily omega-3s and omega-6 fats in our diets. Omega-6 linoleic acid is probably the most toxic of the PUFAs and should be monitored and reduced significantly in your diet. The problem with the modern American diet is that we consume way more omega-6s and linoleic acid vs. Omega-3 fats (from wild salmon, etc).

Omega-3 fats are generally anti-inflammatory and consist of EPA and DHA, which are medicinal for the brain, joints, mood, cardiovascular, nervous, and immune systems etc. Ideally, the ratio should be a 2-to-1 omega-6 to omega-3 ratio for a healthy inflammatory response, but most Americans are consuming a ratio more like 15:1.

Oxidation of PUFAs is influenced by heat. When PUFAs are exposed to heat, such as when you are using seed oils to cook, they produce free radicals. These free radicals can produce aldehydes and other toxic substances, which can change a cell’s structure and cause damage to cell membranes. Olive oil is generally considered a healthier oil because it is high in omega-3. However, once heated, it oxidizes, breaks down, and becomes unhealthy. Never cook with olive oil. If you use it, put it on your food after cooking.

Most of the olive oil out there has been adulterated with seed oils, which is not indicated on their label. Either way, olive oil goes rancid within three weeks of opening the bottle. Avocado oil is often adulterated as well, so research your brand to see if there is any information on adulteration. So, what’s the best oil to cook with? Organic coconut oil takes the top spot as opposed to other oils.

Excessive linoleic acid causes inflammation and inflammatory d isease processes. It increases mitochondrial dysfunction, nervous system imbalance, immune system dysfunction, metabolic syndrome, heart disease, thyroid dysfunction, psychiatric disorders, damages the cell lining of blood vessels, depletes the liver of glutathione, increases insulin resistance, increases cancer risk, and many other health-related imbalances.

Americans get approximately 25 percent of their calories from seed oils. Examples of seed oils and vegetable oils (with their percentage of linoleic content) are Safflower oil (70%), Grape seed oil (70%), Sunflower oil (68%), Corn oil (54%), Cottonseed oil (52%), Soybean oil (51%), and Canola oil (19%). All seeds and nuts have linoleic acid, which is fine in low amounts, but too much is where the problem lies. Poppy seeds have one of the highest linoleic acid contents (62%), and macadamia nuts have one of the lowest with 2%.

I don’t think you need to cut out nuts and seeds from your diet completely, but be aware that if you are eating excessive amounts of nuts and seeds and consuming vegetable oils, you could have too high of an omega-6 to omega-3 ratio in your diet. It’s better to reduce your nuts and seeds if you think you are in excess and cut out seed oils from your diet.

Steps to Reduce Your Omega-6/Linoleic Acid Intake:

Cook with coconut oil, organic beef fat, organic butter/ghee (if you are not sensitive to dairy)
Reduce your intake of processed foods and restaurant food. If you go out to eat, ask the waitstaff what oils they use to cook your dish. I give you permission to be that annoying customer.
Check condiment labels, as many use seed oils.
Do not eat conventional meat such as chicken and pork; they are fed high linoleic acid, which goes into their meat and eggs. The lowest linoleic content in meat is in buffalo, lamb, goat, and deer.
The lowest linoleic acid in nuts and seeds is in macadamia nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, pistachios, flaxseeds, almonds, and chia seeds.
Even “healthy” nutrition bars can have seed oils. Check all your “healthy” snack labels for seed oils. Switch to snacks and foods that contain coconut oil and don’t have seed oils. Many of the healthier snack alternatives use safflower oil and cottonseed oil.
Get your omega-6 to omega-3 ratio muscle tested, or by using online tests, to determine your omega status.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions about your omega ratio or other health-related questions.

Healthfully yours,

Dr. Lou Granirer