As the vibrant energy of spring surrounds us, it's the perfect time to embrace the transformative power of nature and integrate it into our personal journeys toward holistic health.

Spring offers a wealth of opportunities to enhance our well-being through integrative medicine practices. From exploring the healing benefits of herbal remedies to incorporating mindfulness into our daily routines, there's no shortage of ways to tap into the natural rhythms of the season.

Below is a list of seasonal, self-care practices:

1. Seasonal Eating: Embrace seasonal produce like asparagus, leafy greens, strawberries, and radishes to nourish your body with fresh, nutrient-rich foods.
2. Outdoor Movement: Take advantage of the warmer weather by engaging in outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, cycling, or practicing yoga in nature.
3. Sunshine Exposure: Spend time outdoors to soak up natural sunlight, which can boost vitamin D levels and improve mood and energy levels.
4. Spring Cleaning: Declutter and cleanse your living space to create a fresh and revitalized environment, promoting mental clarity and relaxation.
5. Herbal Teas: Incorporate herbal teas like nettle, dandelion, or peppermint to support detoxification and promote overall well-being.
6. Gardening: Connect with nature by starting a garden or tending to plants, which can be therapeutic and grounding activities.

As the world awakens, let's explore path of revitalization and rejuvenation. Like the bulbs bursting forth from the earth, let's nourish ourselves from the inside out, cultivating a sense of balance and harmony in our lives. Together, we can embark on a journey towards greater vitality, balance, and resilience.

Wishing you a month of rejuvenation,

Melinda Ring, MD

Executive Director

www.drmelindaring.com

We invite you to share in the opportunity for growth by joining the Osher Center as a patient, colleague, or supporter. To learn more please visit our website.

Osher Virtual Grand Rounds

Next Grand Rounds: 4/11/24 12 pm CST

"There is a Balm in Gilead": Healing Theologies and Practices in Black Spiritual Spaces

Speaker: Shakira Sanchez-Collins, MD, MDiv

Synopsis of the Presentation: Explore the role of spiritual practices in creating opportunities for social connection and belonging. Examine the role of spiritual spaces for culturally competent health education, advocacy and promotion. Explore how spiritual practices and theologies can be utilized for coping with stress and challenges.

Registration information, here.

Fiber-Rich Diet Transforms Gut Bacteria to Support Weight Reduction

Exciting research suggests that resistant starch (RS), a fiber found in beans and other foods, may help people with excess body weight lose weight and improve insulin sensitivity, thanks in part to changes in gut bacteria.

In an 8-week study, participants consuming 40 grams of RS experienced significant weight loss and better insulin levels, alongside an increase in beneficial gut bacteria and a reduction in inflammatory markers. This points to RS as a promising dietary supplement for boosting metabolic health.

Tips:

• Add natural sources of resistant starch to your diet, such as beans, lentils, whole grains, and cooked then cooled potatoes and rice. These foods can enhance the fiber content of your meals and potentially lead to the benefits observed in the study.
• If it's challenging to get enough resistant starch from your diet, consider a supplement. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or concerns.

While the study results are promising, remember that individual responses to dietary changes can vary. It may take time to see significant changes, and what works for one person might not work for another. Stay informed and be patient with your body as you explore what works best for you.

Household Chemicals Linked to Brain Damage

Recent research highlights concerns about two types of chemicals found in everyday household products and their potential impact on brain development. Quaternary ammonium compounds, commonly used in disinfectants and personal care items, along with organophosphate flame retardants found in furniture and electronics, may harm oligodendrocytes. These cells are essential for the development and function of the brain, providing insulation around nerve cells that helps with the efficient transmission of electrical signals.

While the study, published in Nature Neuroscience, reveals alarming effects on these brain cells, experts call for more research to definitively link these chemicals to human health issues.

Tips:

To minimize your chemical exposure at home, consider a few practical steps.

• Reduce the use of products containing these chemicals by seeking out natural or eco-friendly cleaning and personal care products.
• Ventilate your living spaces well, especially when using products that may release harmful chemicals.
• Regularly clean dust from your home, as toxic substances can accumulate in dust particles.

By taking these actions, you can contribute to a healthier living environment for you and your family.

Relax: Mind-Body Paths to Managing Cancer Pain

Solid evidence supports integrative care, such as acupuncture, yoga, cannabis, and cryotherapy, eases chronic pain for cancer survivors.

See what UCSF Osher Integrative oncologist, Donald Abrams has to say.

Find out more, here.

Reveal: Ageism in Health Care-More Common than You Might Think

Dr. Louise Aronson at the UCSF Osher Center, shares how ageism is common in health care settings and can lead to both overtreatment and undertreatment of older adults as well as contribute to depression and cognetive decline.

Listen to info on this important topic, here.

Reuse: Common Holiday Spices Dubbed as "Nutraceuticals"

The Osher Center at Vanderbilt was highlighted in this article about traditional holiday fitness-promoting herbs that are powerful antioxidants and mirror the pharmacological potential of synthetic drugs and medicines.

Spice up your knowledge, here.