Did you know over 23 million Americans suffer with some sort of autoimmune disease? There are more then 80 different types of autoimmune immune diseases according to the NIH. Autoimmune diseases affect more than seven percent of the population in America, and the situation is getting worse. Three quarters of the patients with an autoimmune disease are woman. Woman who suffer with an autoimmune disease and are under 65 should know it’s the leading cause of death, this shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Antibodies are the body’s natural defense against infections. However, somebody suffering with an autoimmune disease antibodies are produced and are attacking normal cells of the body including tissues and organs. Disease can affect any area of the body and often happens in many places at once.

Usually you have to be predisposed in order the manifest an autoimmune disease. That’s only true for one third of autoimmune disease patients. So heredity isn’t always the case. Environmental factors, viruses, bacteria, and even nutritional deficiencies can lead autoimmune diseases. Recent discoveries suggest that B-cells, type of white blood cells, may have a strong influence with the development and progression of the disease.

To determine if a patient has an autoimmune disease, a physician will review a patient’s health history, learn of any family history of autoimmune diseases, and conduct blood tests to see if there are specific antibodies present that react against the body’s tissues and organs. Depending on the autoimmune disease, a patient may see specialists in rheumatology, endocrinology, hematology, neurology, cardiology, gastroenterology or dermatology.

People who suffer with autoimmune diseases are competing each and every day of their lives. The competition is with ones own body in order to become healthy. Remission is possible with the help of the medical field. There are many ways to restore health. It is my opinion that every avenue be used. Many people need a combination of treatments to achieve control. It is my belief you have to be relentless in order to achieve success.

The all American autoimmune disease athlete usually has many years of educating themselves. Nobody signs up for this sport, but we are true warriors. Determined to overcome our afflictions we strive forward with a positive attitude. Mindset can help one’s ability to overcome disease. We have to take every variable and cross examine all aspects that may cause a particular disease. A patient should be their own advocate. Investigate every possible cause leading to disease.

The body is truly a remarkable machine. I believe it can restore itself if treated properly. Understanding what the body needs to improve functionality is half the battle. I’m finding that if I incorporate nutrition, exercise, and meditation (prayer), I’m able to reduce my symptoms. I eventually would like to reverse my diagnosis. I want to be free of all medications. The culmination of resources over the years has helped me better understand my disease. I’m living my best life due to the micro habits I developed in order to have success. The body is capable of transforming provided we feed ourselves with dense nutrition. I recently lost over 30 pounds because I stumbled onto a wellness program that I’m following. I believe my small investment into my health has me obtaining a healthier me. My body is in harmony.

Thank you for reading. I hope this inspires you to be the best you can be. Live your best life now. Never give up! You’re worth it! Self-love. Be an autoimmune disease athlete. See you at the finish line.

^references:

^{1. NIH Autoimmune Diseases Coordinating Committee: Autoimmune Diseases Research Plan, March 2005. https://www.niaid.nih.gov/sites/default/files/adccfinal.pdf (Last accessed October 10, 2017)}

^{2. Fairweather D, Frisancho-Kiss S, Rose NR. Sex Differences in Autoimmune Disease from a Pathological Perspective. The American Journal of Pathology. 2008;173(3):600-609. doi:10.2353/ajpath.2008.071008. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2527069/}

^{3. Walsh SJ, Rau LM. Autoimmune diseases: a leading cause of death among young and middle-aged women in the United States. Am J Public Health. 2000;90(9):1463–1466 [PMC free article] [PubMed]}

^{4. “B cells move to centre stage: novel opportunities for autoimmune disease treatment” by Jeffrey L. Browning. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery5, 564-576 (July 2006) | doi:10.1038/nrd2085 http://www.nature.com/nrd/journal/v5/n7/full/nrd2085.html?foxtrotcallback=true}

^{5. American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association. https://www.niaid.nih.gov/diseases-conditions/autoimmune-diseases(Last accessed October 10, 2017)}

Genentech’s article; “Autoimmune disease 101”

What is transformational nutrition? Why is transformational nutrition important to achieve optimal health? With obesity and diabetes on the rise in the United States, I think these are responsible questions to ask ourselves. Let’s face it nobody is taught about nutrition through our schooling. It’s up to us to educate ourselves unless you take it as a course on a college level.

In order to understand transformational nutrition you have to understand the the relationship of protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and starches. If your goal is to have optimal health then I suggest you start learning the values of these foods and how they affect our bodies. Along with nutrition you must also consider hydration. Dehydration is a recipe for poor health. To much sugar is a recipe for poor health and disease. Drinking alcohol everyday can over tax your organs and shorten your life. Smoking is probably the worse habit anyone can do to themselves. Snacking on junk food consistently will blow you up like a balloon. Drinking sugary drinks will eventually lead to diabetes or worse. I know we have to live and enjoy life. But let’s do it responsibly.

I’ve know people who used transformational nutrition in order to lose weight, stop addictions, reverse diseases, and to live a happier life. It’s call habits of health. Balanced nutrition can help our bodies obtain optimal health. It’s like filling a cars fuel tank with gas but it’s tainted with water. The chances of that car running and performing at optimal levels are slim to none. Just like our bodies they need the proper fuel source to feed us on a cellular level.

Being diagnosed with a autoimmune disease at the age of 28 raised a lot of questions. I’m always learning and researching but I think I’m onto something with this wellness program I’ve started recently. You see I always wanted to lose weight and gain muscle. As a kid I remember watching Arnold Schwarzenegger in body building competitions. I always admired his physique. Obviously it’s what made him famous, plus his determination to be an American citizen. His life is nothing less than impressive. I don’t agree with all of the choices he has made, but we are all human and we make mistakes.

With that said, I believe TN can change us for the better. I’ve lost over 25 pounds and I’m 6 pounds from my goal. It’s been less than six weeks. I can hardly believe it myself. Balance nutrition has changed so many peoples lives on this program. I’m just sorry I didn’t learn about this sooner. As usual if I find something that works I want to share it with everyone. That’s why I live out loud. I’m happy to share about our program if your interested. This program has transformed my life. Send me a message if you’re interested.

Have a blessed day!

Todd Bello tvsoccerdad@yahoo.com

Popeye was right about spinach. As a kid I was glued to the television watching my favorite cartoons. Bugs Bunny and Popeye were #1 and #2 on my list. Bugs Bunny was always eating his carrots and Popeye love his spinach when he faced his adversary Brutus. The message was clear “Eats me Spinach” to gain strength. The popular cartoon had an important message. So what is it about spinach that is so beneficial to our bodies?

Being that I have an autoimmune disease I try and eat as many anti-inflammatory foods possible. When I was diagnosed and found out there was no cure, I started researching what I can do to reduce my symptoms. Our bodies can regenerate themselves. So with the right foods I believe certain issues can be resolved. Research shows my theory to be true. With that said let’s take a look at this super food more closely.

Spinach is an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals, including:

• Vitamin A. Spinach is high in carotenoids, which your body can turn into vitamin A.
• Vitamin C. This vitamin is a powerful antioxidant that promotes skin health and immune function.
• Vitamin K1. This vitamin is essential for blood clotting. Notably, one spinach leaf contains over half of your daily needs.
• Folic acid. Also known as folate or vitamin B9, this compound is vital for pregnant womenand essential for normal cellular function and tissue growth.
• Iron. Spinach is an excellent source of this essential mineral. Iron helps create hemoglobin, which brings oxygen to your body’s tissues.
• Calcium. This mineral is essential for bone health and a crucial signaling molecule for your nervous system, heart, and muscles.

Spinach also contains several other vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamins B6, B9, and E.

Spinach contains several important plant compounds, including:

• Lutein. This compound is linked to improved eye health.
• Kaempferol. This antioxidant may decrease your risk of cancer and chronic diseases.
• Nitrates. Spinach contains high amounts of nitrates, which may promote heart health.
• Quercetin. This antioxidant may ward off infection and inflammation. Spinach is one of the richest dietary sources of quercetin.
• Zeaxanthin. Like lutein, zeaxanthin can also improve eye health.

1. It protects the heart and brain

Spinach is high in potassium, which is known to reduce blood pressure by helping our kidneys flush sodium out of our bodies, according to the American Heart Association. High blood pressure, or hypertension, causes heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke. Spinach and other low-sodium leafy greens are an excellent addition to any diet aimed at lowering blood pressure.

It also contains an antioxidant called lutein that’s associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease. Spinach contains nitrates, which may prevent insulin resistance and relieve inflammation, a primary risk factor for diabetes. Vitamin K, folate, and beta carotene may promote brain health and slow cognitive decline, too, according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

2. It reduces the risk of anemia

Spinach is one of the many foods high in iron, which can help to reduce your risk of iron-deficiency anemia.

Iron promotes the transport of oxygen to the body’s tissues. You may develop anemia without enough iron in your diet, which can cause extreme fatigue, heart problems, and cognitive impairments. Combining a food high in iron with a food high in vitamin C, like bell peppers or tomatoes, will help to boost absorption.

3. It may help prevent cancer

Spinach contains beta carotene and vitamin C, both of which act as protectors against developing cancer cells and may help reduce your risk of developing some cancers. As antioxidants, they help your body block carcinogens.

4. It boosts immunity

Packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc, and magnesium, spinach is a one-stop immunity boost that will reinforce your body’s natural defenses against viruses and bacteria.

5. It reduces inflammation

Green leafy vegetables like spinach contain plenty of vitamin E, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Things like processed foods, stress, lack of adequate sleep, and substance use can cause inflammation. Chronic inflammation is associated with heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer, according to the American Heart Association. Spinach contains a host of anti-inflammatory properties to keep your body healthy.

6. It protects vision

The vitamin A in spinach helps maintainmucus membranes essential for eyesight, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin help maintain vision, too. Spinach can also stave off cataracts and age-related eye degeneration.

7. It supports weight management

Low in calories and high in fiber, including more non-starchy vegetables like spinach in your diet is the perfect way to maintain a healthy weight. The fiber in spinach can keep you feeling satisfied longer and it can also facilitate proper digestion and help to regulate blood sugar.

8. It’s great for hair, skin, and nails

Spinach contains vitamin A, vitamin E, and iron — which help keep skin, hair, and nails healthy, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Let’s not forget “Olive Oil” who Popeye lived and adore. What a great message this cartoon portrayed. Except for the fighting of course. Health wise I would say it scored an excellent grade. Wishing you health and wellness.

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Trusted articles: https://share.upmc.com/2023/03/health-benefits-of-spinach/.

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/spinach

Many of us who are diagnosed with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis have been prescribed both of these type of medications. Knowing the difference between the two medications is important. When deciding which path you want to take treating our disease, knowledge can help avoid critical mistakes that might cause subsequent side effects later on. It up to you the patient to make these educated decisions. Your well being is up to you and your doctor. I always felt empowered educating myself about treatments.

With that said I want for you to know the differences between these two types of prescriptions. It’s in your best interest to read about them if your doctor elects for you to administer. Now mind you, I’ve been on both before in the past. It’s not an easy decision.

From the John Hopkins Institute:

Pharmacological Strategies

There are three general classes of drugs commonly used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). NSAIDs and corticosteroids have a short onset of action while DMARDs can take several weeks or months to demonstrate a clinical effect. DMARDs include methotrexate, sulfasalazine, leflunomide (Arava®), etanercept (Enbrel®), infliximab (Remicade®), adalimumab (Humira®), certolizumab pegol (Cimzia®), golimumab (Simponi®), abatacept (Orencia®), rituximab (Rituxan®), tocilizumab (Actemra®), anakinra (Kineret®), antimalarials (e.g. Plaquenil®). Other immunomodulators are occasionally used including azathioprine (Imuran) and cyclosporine. Because cartilage damage and bony erosions frequently occur within the first two years of disease, rheumatologists now move aggressively to a DMARD agent early in the course of disease, usually as soon as a diagnosis is confirmed. Analgesic drugs are also sometimes helpful in decreasing pain until DMARDs take effect. A summary table of how to monitor drug treatment in rheumatoid arthritis is included.

Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Agents (NSAIDs)

The major effect of these agents is to reduce acute inflammation thereby decreasing pain and improving function. All of these drugs also have mild to moderate analgesic properties independent of their anti-inflammatory effect. It is important to note however that these drugs alone do not change the course of the disease of rheumatoid arthritis or prevent joint destruction.

Aspirin is the oldest drug of the non-steroidal class, but because of its high rate of GI toxicity, a narrow window between toxic and anti-inflammatory serum levels, and the inconvenience of multiple daily doses, aspirin’s use as the initial choice of drug therapy has largely been replaced by other NSAIDs. There are a large number of NSAIDs from which to choose, and at full dosages all are potentially equally effective. Likewise, the toxicities of the currently available NSAIDs are similar. However, there is a great deal of variation in tolerance and response to a particular NSAID. Many different NSAIDS are available, some over the counter including ibuprofen (Advil ®, Motrin®, Nuprin ®) and naproxen (Alleve®) and many others are available by prescription including meloxicam (Mobic®), etodolac (Lodine®), nabumetone (Relafen®), sulindac (Clinoril®), tolementin (Tolectin®), choline magnesium salicylate (Trilasate®), diclofenac (Cataflam®, Voltaren®, Arthrotec®), diflusinal (Dolobid®), indomethacin (Indocin®), ketoprofen (Orudis®, Oruvail®), meloxicam (Mobic®), oxaprozin (Daypro®), and piroxicam (Feldene®). Longer acting NSAIDs that allow daily or twice daily dosing may improve compliance. The NSAID class also includes drugs known as COX-2 inhibitors that are also effective in controlling inflammation. Only one of these agents is currently available in the United States (celecoxib, Celebrex®) while additional compounds are available in other countries (etoricoxib, Arcoxia®; lumiracoxib, Prexige®). These drugs were designed to decrease the gastrointestinal risk of NSAIDS, but concerns of possible increases in cardiovascular risk with these agents has led to the withdrawal of two of these drugs from the market (rofecoxib, Vioxx®; valdecoxib, Bextra®).

Mechanism:

NSAIDs inhibit the generation of prostaglandins by blocking cyclooxygenase enzymes, COX-1 and COX-2. Prostaglandins are mediators of inflammation and pain but also have important roles in maintenance of normal body functions including protection from stomach acid, maintenance of kidney blood flow, and contributing to platelet stickiness and vascular function. COX-2 selective inhibitors selectively block prostaglandins generated via COX-2 which have prominent roles in inflammation.

Dosage:

While in some cases, lower doses of NSAIDS are effective, in rheumatoid arthritis and other forms of inflammatory arthritis a higher dose is often required to decrease inflammation. A lower dosage can initially be used if inflammation is mild, if mechanical pain is the major problem, if the patient is elderly or if the patient suffers from conditions that increase the risk for toxicity (see below). If a particular preparation is ineffective after a 4-week trial or is not tolerated, then another NSAID can be initiated. No one NSAID has been demonstrated to be better than another for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis nor have the COX-2 agents been shown to be superior to traditional NSAIDS in terms of effectiveness.

Usual Time to Effect:

Although these agents have anti-inflammatory effect within hours, a reasonable trial period is a few weeks to 1 month.

Side Effects:

The most common toxicity of NSAIDs is gastrointestinal disturbance which may clinically include burning, belching, or irritation, but which can represent irritation of the lining of the stomach, erosions, and even ulcerations that can result in bleeding.  While taking the medication with food may eliminate some of these symptoms, this does not decrease a risk of bleeding. The co-administration of medications known as proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole (Prilosec®), Lansoprazole (Prevacid®), Esomeprazole (Nexium®),  Pantoprazole (Protonix®), and Rabeprazole (Aciphex®),  and a medication that provides back protective prostaglandins called misoprostol (Cytotec®) can also decrease gastrointestinal bleeding associated with these medications.  Misoprostol is combined in a single pill with the NSAID diclofenac (Arthrotec®). Selective COX-2 inhibitors exhibit safer GI profiles than conventional non-selective NSAIDs.

Because prostaglandins play a role in the regulation of the blood flow in the kidneys and maintenance of glomerular filtration, NSAIDs can also impair renal function in certain patients leading to salt retention, edema, and increased blood pressure. The patients at highest risk are those with fluid imbalances or with compromised kidney function (e.g., heart failure, diuretic use, cirrhosis, dehydration, and renal insufficiency). NSAIDs may also increase cardiovascular risks by their effects on blood pressure and additional effects on vascular beds. Thus the use of this class of medications must into account their relative risks in an individual patient of gastrointestinal damage versus potential cardiovascular risk factors.

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What does nutrition have to do with psoriasis? Well I guess that question depends on who you ask. While most medical doctors would say diet has nothing to do with psoriasis. Functional medical doctors would disagree. What’s your opinion about the subject? Has nutrition helped your psoriasis?

I’ve run a support group on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and Tic Toc. The consensus is about 50/50. Most people would like to argue about the subject. I prefer to be open minded. My feelings are if something is controlling your psoriasis then you should run with it. Let’s face it, psoriasis is a frustrating disease. Any treatment that helps is a win.

Having psoriasis for over 32 years has made me humble. I truly appreciate being 99% clear. I know the difference. Over the years I’ve learned so much pertaining to this disease. Many of you who are newly diagnosed are in a much better position than 30 years ago. There are so many advanced treatments available these days. You should still do your due diligence about a particular prescription before you decide to go forward.

Anyway getting back to the subject, Nutrition. Recently I’ve been following a well designed program for a healthy lifestyle. My daughters wedding was a few weeks ago, and I noticed I packed on the pounds over the years. I’ve tried so many times to lose the weight. I wish I would of discovered this long before the wedding. I’m happy to report I’m down 16 pounds. It’s going on three weeks. I’m super excited. I want to share it with the world.

I make one meal a day. They are weighed and carefully chosen to obtain all the macronutrients the body needs. Protein, carbs, and fats are balanced in proportion. For the first month we leave out the starches. Healthy eating is a choice. I decided I’m fed up being heavy and out of shape. This dad body has to go. It’s my why! Plus I would live to reverse my diagnosis of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis.

I attended an event where I had to dress up nice and look presentable. I was helping my friend Tony Crimmins from Australia showcase his products at the KEHE winter show in Chicago. Anyway to make a long story short I arrived there and I was sweating profusely and I noticed my vision wasn’t very good. My right eye lost vision. Tell me that’s not scary. This has been my motivation throughout this program.

I can’t go on feeling like this. I’m feeling self-conscious about my weight and my overall health. I started a simple 5 and 1 program where I prepare only one meal a day until I reach my goal. I believe I will hit my goal in one month. Then I switch to a 3 and 3. Every meal is spaced out 2.5 hour apart. The other meals are call fueling. They are prepackaged bars, oatmeal, cereal, desserts, soups, etc. I bought 150 of them to last the month. The y are loaded with nutrients. And they are about 110 calories each. It’s completely simple to follow.

I’m happy to report I’m down 16 pounds and it’s only been just under three weeks. I have a coach who taught me about the program. Plus I belong to a helpful support group. If you want more information I will gladly share all the details. Feel free to comment below. Or go to my Facebook feed Todd Bello. I’m the founder of Overcoming Psoriasis. There’s a few of us with the same name so you’ll know it’s the right one because of my title.

Also join our support group Overcoming Psoriasis peer to peer support is so important.

Thank you for reading. I truly appreciate your time.

#psoriasis #influencer

Interesting Topic: Oral psoriasis drug being tested to treat alcohol addiction.

Feb. 22, 2023 — Researchers have discovered that a medicine used to treat itchy skin can help control Alcohol Use Disorders, according to a new study.

People who took the medication in an experiment reduced drinking by more than half, from five drinks a day to two, said the study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation.

Previous research had shown a link between the enzyme phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4), particularly the subtype PDE4b, and alcohol and nicotine dependence.

One of the newer PDE4 inhibitors, apremilast, is an anti-inflammatory drug that treats psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and is marketed as Otezla.

Through their experiments on mice, the researchers found that apremilast acted on the nucleus accumbens, the area of the brain that processes incoming reward and reinforcement stimuli related to addictive drugs, sex, and exercise, the science website New Atlas reported.

They found that the drug reduced excessive alcohol intake in mice across a range of situations, including binge drinking, compulsive, and stress- and non-stress-induced drinking.

Researchers then conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled study on people with Alcohol Use Disorder. The drug was given orally. On average among participants who received it, drinking fell by more than half.

“I’ve never seen anything like that before,” said co-senior author Angela Ozburn, PhD of Oregon Health & Science University. “This is incredibly promising for treatment of addiction in general.”

Importantly, the clinical study’s participants were not actively seeking any form of treatment for excessive alcohol consumption. Co-senior author, Barbara Mason, PhD, considers that apremilast may be even more effective in those motivated to address their problem drinking.

“Apremilast’s large effect size on reducing drinking, combined with its good tolerability in our participants, suggests that it is an excellent candidate for further evaluation as a novel treatment for people with alcohol use disorder,” Mason said.

Written By Jay Croft from Web MD

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#psoriasis Celgene WebMD #otezla #research #science #medicine