Is IV Nutrition Right For You? Nutrition is the fuel that makes us run; it's what our bodies need to live. There are macro nutrients - protein, carbs and fats, and there are micro nutrients - vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals. The degree to which our body has access to nutrients will determine our overall health. Food is our best source of all nutrients but modern farming practices and poor dietary habits leave most of us hungry for better nutrition. This is where nutritional supplementation comes in. Nutritional supplements provide the macro and micro nutrients that are missing from our diet. Macro nutrient supplements can take the form of protein powders, omega fatty acids and glucose-dense energy bars. Micro nutrients take the form of multivitamin tablets or liquid, and are sold under hundreds of brand names in supermarket, pharmacies and online stores. Future articles will explain the ins and outs of multivitamins and their therapeutic use. This article, however, is to introduce you to a form of micronutrient delivery called intravenous or IV therapy. IV therapy has traditionally been used in hospital settings to provide nutrition to patients who are unable to take food by mouth, however, a decade or so ago a new trend was born in Hollywood amongst overworked, overstressed movie and fashion execs for whom IV therapy became a way to deliver high doses of energizing nutrients as a way of combating aging, stress and fatigue. Today “drip rooms” are opening across the US and other countries, fueled by patient demand for anti-aging treatments and drug-free therapies.   In the 1930's an MD named John Meyer perfected a cocktail which delivered high doses of B vitamins, known for their ability to boost energy, vitamin C, known for its immune boosting properties, and calcium, magnesium and selenium, important nutrients for heart health, muscle relaxation and thyroid function. He used this cocktail for over 30 years for patients with migraine headache, fibromyalgia, colds and flu and chronic fatigue. This formula eventually found its way to Hollywood. The Meyer's Cocktail with added vitamin C can be used for colds and flu and immune weakness and medical research has shown that high dosages of nutrition can also be good supportive therapy for cancer patients on chemotherapy. The IV drip is also rehydration therapy which most people can benefit from. IV nutrients can be delivered as a drip, which takes approximately 1 hour to deliver, or it can be given as a “push” which takes about half that time. The procedure is simple: after a thorough medical history your vital signs are taken and then a thin needle is inserted into your arm. This allows for placement of a small tube called a catheter into the vein and the needle is removed. The nutrients flow through the catheter which is much more comfortable than the older needle delivery system. The patient lies back and relaxes in a comfortable lounge chair watching TV or listening to music or quietly as they may choose. They are attended throughout by doctors and other medical staff. IV nutrient drips are safe and are generally well tolerated by healthy people. Patients have reported feeling energized, have shortened duration of flu symptoms, and a reduction in pain. Other formulations will soon be available for macular degeneration, wound healing and asthma. Come in today to see if an IV nutrient drip is right for you!     Studies show that following a primarily plant-based natural food diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, has a broad range of health benefits. This diet is high in fiber, healthy oils, and complex carbohydrates and low in sugar, salt, saturated fat, and simple carbohydrates. Conditions that respond favorably to this style of eating include diabetes, hypertension, obesity and chronic pain. The Mediterranean diet also known as the “Heart Healthy Diet” also consistently improves outcomes for heart patients. The NMAC Healthy Home Cooking Program educates patients on the benefits of the Mediterranean Diet and demonstrates ways to prepare healthy recipes using the same ingredients and cooking style that will appeal to the tastes and traditions of Bermudians. During our low cost “food makeover” classes Dr. Amani Flood, NMD will discuss healthy food preparation designed mainly around a plant-based diet, with a strong focus on dairy free, gluten-free, mucous-less, low glycemic, ancient grains, raw dishes and sugar-free desserts. New food ideas such as cooking with tofu and quinoa, making homemade healthy beverages and healthy snacks will be introduced. On occasion organic poultry, fresh fish and grass raised beef will also be prepared. Tips on food shopping and storage and meal ideas for sub-populations such as children, elderly and persons with specific diagnoses will also be shared. Participants will also have the opportunity to sample and assist with food preparation and receive the recipes for the meal demonstrated by Dr. Flood and guest chefs.     The scorching heat may still be lingering and the ‘cold’ Bermuda winter weather that we’ve been seeking since July may still seem like eons away, but just like Christmas – it will come upon us in no time. Like other seasonal preparations and adjustments that we make in our attire, homes and it’s equally important that our skin is not forgotten in the hustle and bustle of daily living. Here are some tips to help you maintain glowing, soft skin throughout the winter.     1 Switch from lotion to cream - Your skin will probably need more moisture more often. If you usually use a lotion, you may need to switch to a cream. 2 Choose your cleanser carefully - Cleansers can strip your skin of natural oils, dry it out, and over time, lead to more visible lines and wrinkles. 3 Take shorter showers at lukewarm temperatures followed up by a layer of moisturizer from head to toe. 4 Don't forget sunscreen - Though we're less exposed to sun in winter, that doesn't mean we can stop protecting ourselves from its rays altogether. 5 Hydrate and protect your lips - In winter, it is easier for the moisture in your lips to be taken away by the elements.             Alfred Roberts Operations Manager   Alfred received his Bachelor of Science degrees in Healthcare Administration and Business Management from Kent State University in Kent, Ohio and a Master of Science in Public Health from New York Medical College in Valhalla, New York. Alfred has had a wide range of experience in both the insurance industry and healthcare industries. His journey has led him to work in Paris, France; London, England; and Kent and Akron, Ohio. He has held the roles of Financial Analyst, Claims Analyst, Practicum Coordinator and Hospital Special Projects Manager. Alfred had the unique opportunity of developing and overseeing multiple collaborative projects between Kent State University’s College of Public Health and Akron General Hospital as there Special Projects Manager. During this timeAlfred gained his hands-on healthcare and project management experience and familiarity with bottom-line responsibility. His specific areas of expertise include: operational assessment and improvement, re-engineering office processes/procedures, data analysing, compliance programme development, risk management, strategic business planning and marketing, and healthcare project management.     Sasha Benson Spa Coordinator / Aesthetician   As a Licensed Medical Aesthetician, for the past 7 years, Sasha’s knowledge keeps her up to date on the latest in skincare regimes and techniques. Sasha’s approach is one that encompasses all of her technical knowledge with a relaxing and soothing touch. She is a master in many facets of Aesthetics including Skin Analysis, Customized Facials, Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion, Laser Hair Removal, Laser Face & Body Treatments, Acne, and Anti-Aging Treatments. Schedule your appointment today with Sasha Benson at NMAC.