Ask Dr. Maxwell

The 10 Most Important Health Lessons of 2017

It’s been a wild year. We’re always making new discoveries in medicine or rediscovering old techniques. Advances in 2017 certainly brought us a lot to discuss in the medical field.

Here are some of this year’s highlights I wrote about.

 

1. Mast Cell Activation Syndrome: When Protective Cells Become Harmful

One of my most detailed posts from this year is about Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). MCAS is a syndrome in which over-active mast cells excessively degranulate and release histamines. Symptoms include anaphylaxis, hives, wheezing, digestive issues, bone pain, joint pain and neurological issues. In the article, I talk about triggers and treatments.

 

2. What You Should Know About Vitamin K2

Vitamin K2, especially Menaquinone 7, is an essential vitamin for your health. It plays an important role in preventing the calcification of the arteries and subsequent heart disease, coagulation, healing tissue and osteoporosis. To get more K2, eat plenty of fermented foods, animal livers or supplements.

 

3. Is Your Sunscreen Safe or Toxic?

Sunscreen has been in the news the past couple years questioning its safety. In this write-up, I examine the dangers and benefits of sunscreen, how sunscreen works, what effects sunscreen ingredients have on your health and what the best choices are. Preparing for next summer can never come too early!

 

4. How Stress Affects Your Health & What You Can Do About It!

It can be hard to avoid stress, but stress can put a great deal of harm on your immune system. Your body’s response to stress reduces absorption of vital vitamins and minerals. Your body reacts as if you are in danger over long periods of time, creating an abnormal disruption of your normal immune system. Yoga, meditation and supplements can help you fight stress successfully and boost your immune system.

 

5. How Fracking Can Affect Your Health

In one post, I mine research on fracking, a controversial external factor on your health. So much is unknown about its effects on the human body. We do know enough, however, to determine that it has many ill effects on people’s health and the environment.

 

6. Yoga Is Becoming Mainstream Medicine

Yoga isn’t a fad. It’s actually been around for centuries. Now, western medicine is recognizing yoga’s value as an aspect of holistic health in the ties of mind, body, and spirit. The best part is that insurance providers are also beginning to cover yoga expenses.

 

7. Get in Shape with Rucking

Rucking is just as fun to say as it is to do! Rucking is an exercise that involves walking, running or hiking while wearing a backpack. The weight adds resistance to your aerobic workout. Start small, though! You don’t want to get a hernia or wear yourself out too quickly.

 

8. Important Reasons to Avoid Pork

Pork is one of the worst foods to put in your body, yet it’s the most widely consumed meat in the world. Among its dangers are carcinogens and toxins, parasites and antibiotics. I suggest avoiding it at all costs. Read more.. If you dare!

 

9. The Many Health Benefits of Pets

If you’ve been thinking about getting a pet, you’ll want to check out the health benefits of being a pet owner. Health benefits include decreasing allergy or asthma problems, decreasing risk of heart disease, assisting disabled individuals and providing therapy. There are some potential risks to know about, some of which can be prevented.

 

10. Pros and Cons of Wearable Health Devices

The new year is upon us, and one of the most common resolutions is to exercise more. If you’re looking into a way to keep to your diet and exercise routine, check out my overview on wearable digital health devices. It may help you determine if its suitable for you.

 

Happy New Year!

Thank you for reading and following along this year. I wish you all great health and happiness in 2018!