Rubie Pfannerstill

Getting quality sleep is vital for good health and well-being. Many people struggle to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. If you deal with insomnia or have trouble sleeping, you may have heard about using cannabinol (CBN) as a natural sleep aid. But how exactly does CBN work to promote better sleep? Keep reading to learn more about this cannabinoid and how it can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.

Boosts anandamide

The CB1 receptors also interact with anandamide, an endocannabinoid sometimes called the “bliss molecule.” Higher anandamide levels are linked to better mood and relaxation. Research indicates CBN may delay the reuptake and breakdown of anandamide, allowing it to remain higher in the body. Maintaining elevated anandamide may promote tranquility and ease stress, enabling faster sleep onset.

Reduces inflammation

Chronic inflammation may interfere with sleep and is associated with conditions like insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome. Early research reports CBN’s potential as an anti-inflammatory compound through its ability to suppress cytokine production. Cytokines are proteins involved in inflammatory responses. CBN’s anti-inflammatory properties may help improve sleep indirectly by lowering inflammation.

Induces sedation

CBN has been found to exhibit sedative effects in animal studies by enhancing pentobarbital-induced sleep. Pentobarbital is a barbiturate that works as a sedative-hypnotic medication. When CBN was combined with pentobarbital, it amplified the compound’s sleep-inducing effects. These findings reveal CBN’s sedative properties and ability to promote deeper sleep. While CBN will not knock you out like a sleeping pill, it facilitates more restful sleep through its mild sedative mechanism. It causes a relaxing effect but without significant impairment the following day.

Offers neuroprotective effects

Research also indicates that CBN may protect nerves and brain cells through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Cell and animal studies have found that CBN may guard neurons from damage caused by oxidative stress and toxicity. By reducing inflammation and oxidative damage, CBN may support brain health and function. Protecting nerve cells involved in regulating sleep may also contribute to CBN’s sleep-enhancing qualities.

CBN’s benefits for sleep

All of the mechanisms above explain how CBN can promote faster sleep onset and more restorative sleep. Here are some of the key sleep benefits offered by CBN.

• Falls asleep faster – Feel less tossing and turning when trying to fall asleep. CBN’s mild sedative effect makes it easier to fall asleep fast.
• Sleep longer – CBN extends total sleep time so you stay asleep longer throughout the night.
• Increased REM sleep – CBN appears to increase time spent in REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, the deep restorative sleep stage when dreaming occurs.
• Less mid-night awakenings – Wake up less frequently in the middle of the night after initially falling asleep.
• Less daytime drowsiness – CBN allows you to reach more of the deeper stages of sleep, so you feel well-rested and alert the next day.
• Improved sleep quality – With extended sleep and more time in REM, overall cbn for sleep quality is better.

CBN oil drops or capsules are the most popular formats, with tinctures dropped under the tongue being the quickest way to feel the effects. CBN is also available in isolates and vapes for faster administration. Topical CBN improves sleep when applied to the skin.

Magnesium is an essential mineral used by every organ system in the body. Supplements like magnesium glycinate help correct common deficiencies. Some people wonder whether magnesium negatively interacts with certain prescription drugs or medical conditions.

Medications impacted by magnesium

• Antibiotics – Magnesium sometimes reduces the absorption of certain antibiotics like quinolones and tetracyclines if taken too closely together. These drugs bind to metals, allowing less absorption if magnesium levels rise too high. Avoid supplements 1-2 hours before or after taking affected antibiotics.
• Diabetic & insulin medications – Magnesium helps regulate carbohydrate metabolism and insulin receptors. Those on insulin or oral diabetes drugs should only supplement under medical guidance. Blood glucose levels may drop too low if uncoordinated. Work with your healthcare provider to adjust meds as needed with added magnesium.
• Blood pressure medications – Magnesium relaxes blood vessels, naturally lowering blood pressure. Using magnesium alongside prescription blood pressure pills potentially amplifies effects. Monitor your pressure after starting supplements in coordination with your pharmacist or doctor. Adjust antihypertensives downward slowly and cautiously if levels dip too far.
• Muscle relaxers & pain medications – Magnesium has natural muscle relaxants and neuropathic pain-relieving properties. Taking magnesium glycinate could enhance the effects of certain muscle relaxants and narcotic pain medicines due to additive impacts. Use discretion with dosing of both concurrently.
• Diuretics – Magnesium imbalances sometimes stem from taking diuretics like Lasix (furosemide) and HCTZ (hydrochlorothiazide) that flush out minerals. Anyone on these meds long-term requires sufficient magnesium replacement to avoid depletion issues. Coordinate with the prescribing doctor to supplement as needed.

A few categories of drugs may theoretically be less effective if taking extra magnesium due to impacts on absorption pathways.

1. Bisphosphonates for osteoporosis
2. Antimicrobials like rifampin
3. Thyroid hormones like levothyroxine

However, loss of efficacy seems more likely with very high doses of magnesium well above the RDA. Stick within normal supplemental ranges unless specifically directed otherwise by your physician.

General safety recommendations

Start low & go slow – When beginning to take magnesium glycinate or increase your dosage, increment slowly while monitoring body signals. This minimizes the risk of loose stools as your tolerance adapts. Finding your personalized ideal daily amount this way maximizes wanted benefits while preventing undesirable GI effects.

Watch for signs of excess – If you experience diarrhea lasting more than a day or two after taking supplemental magnesium, scale back your last dose. Abdominal cramping can also signal overdoing levels. Topping out beyond personal tolerance presents differently for each individual. Pay attention as your body acclimates.

Check with your doctor – Discuss adding top magnesium supplements with your physician if you take any medicines, especially cardiac, diabetic, or blood pressure drugs. Those with kidney dysfunction should exercise particular caution and stick to conservative doses unless otherwise directed.

While quite safe for most people lacking contraindications, carefully coordinating magnesium glycinate supplementation alongside your particular health profile and medication routine remains sensible. But, don’t let unnecessary worry prevent harnessing all the benefits magnesium offers for optimizing wellness and vitality.

Gum disease is the most prevalent dental problem affecting people of all age groups globally. Periodontitis is the most advanced stage of gum disease that is preceded by gingivitis (early-stage disease). Periodontitis leads to loss of attachment and eventual tooth loss. 

Our dentist in Summit, IL, offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment of periodontal disease to improve your oral form, function, and aesthetics. 

Understanding periodontal disease 

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common condition affecting the supporting structures surrounding your teeth, which is the periodontium. This comprises the gums, PDL (periodontal ligament), cementum, and the alveolar bone. Gum disease is the most common cause of tooth loss. 

What factors are responsible for periodontal disease?

The buildup of excess plaque is the prime factor for periodontal disease. Plaque is a thin, sticky film that adheres to the tooth surface, which, when not removed properly, can lead to increased bacterial colonization. These microorganisms release harmful toxins that damage the soft tissues and impair your immune system to fight infections.

Certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing periodontal disease, such as:

• Genetic predisposition
• Poor oral hygiene
• Hormonal imbalance as seen during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause
• Unhealthy lifestyle habits like tobacco use, and smoking
• Stress
• Obesity (being overweight)
• Certain autoimmune diseases like lupus
• Diabetes 
• Heart or respiratory disease

What are the most classic symptoms of periodontal disease?

The most striking features of periodontal disease are as follows:

• Reddish purple gums
• Swollen and tender gums
• Gums that bleed easily while brushing or flossing
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Unpleasant or metallic taste
• Receding gums
• Loose teeth

What are the treatment options for periodontal disease?

Treatment for periodontal disease depends on the severity of the condition. 

Treatment options include:

• Scaling and root planing
  • Professional dental cleaning once every 6 months can prevent plaque formation.
  • It also helps to detect early signs of gum disease and halt the disease progression.
• Medications 
  • These include oral antibiotics for severe infection or antimicrobial mouth rinse.
• Tissue regeneration
  • This treatment encourages the growth of gum tissues through grafting.
  • A biocompatible layer or membrane is inserted into the affected area to promote regeneration of the tissues.
• Pocket elimination surgery
  • This is a flap surgery that reduces the size of the gingival pocket between the gums and the teeth.
• Dental implants 
  • Loss of teeth due to periodontal disease can be effectively replaced using dental implants.
  • These act as an anchorage for crown placement. 

Periodontal disease is common and reversible in the early stages. Seek timely dental help to prevent further deterioration of your oral health.

Today’s blog is for all the sports lover’s out there! We know how much you love your rugby, cricket, netball, and all the exciting activities that keep you moving. But let’s face it, with great sports comes the occasional bump, bruise, or even something more serious, but let’s try to keep today’s discussion a little more light-hearted. We’re here today to uncover and discuss common sports injuries in Christchurch and how a sports physiotherapist can be your ultimate teammate in diagnosing, treating, and preventing them.

Here at Fixed Physio, we help recreational and professional athletes treat and recover from sports injuries in Christchurch. Visit our website to schedule an appointment!

The Ankle Twist 

Ah, the classic ankle twist – a move every athlete unwittingly performs at least once in their career. Whether you’re pivoting on the rugby field or sprinting on the cricket pitch, ankle sprains are incredibly common in sports, and can range from minor twinges to more severe ligament damage. The good news? With the right guidance from a Christchurch physiotherapist, you can bounce back quicker than ever.

Hamstring High Jinks

If you’ve experienced a pulled hamstring before, you’ll know it’s quite a painful topic to discuss, no pun intended. But if you’ve yet to have your hamstring fail you, imagine your hamstring as a rubber band and suddenly having it snap, typically at the most inconvenient of times, like when you’re just about to score a try. Hamstring injuries are notorious for sneaking up when you least expect them. However, our experienced physiotherapists in Christchurch have seen it all and can tailor a recovery plan that gets you back in action, stronger and more flexible than before.

Shoulder Showdowns

Swimming, tennis, and even simple weightlifting can lead to shoulder injuries. Rotator cuff tears, impingement, and dislocations can be a real pain in the…well, the shoulder. But, it doesn’t have to hurt forever! Our Christchurch physio team has a variety of techniques, from targeted exercises to hands-on treatments, to get you serving aces or perfecting your breaststroke once again.

Head Bumps And Bruises

In contact sports like rugby, concussions are a real concern. Your brain is a precious asset, and we take its safety seriously. Our Christchurch physiotherapists can assess, monitor, and guide you through the recovery process following a head injury. Safety first, sports second – that’s our motto!

Runner’s Knee Rundown

Runners, we haven’t forgotten you! Patellofemoral pain syndrome, commonly known as “runner’s knee,” can be a nagging issue. It’s the kind of injury that can turn your favourite pastime into a painful ordeal. But, you don’t have to give up the thrill of the open road beneath your feet! We’re here to help you pinpoint the cause and develop a plan to get you back pounding the pavement.

Treatment Tailored to You

From diagnosis to treatment, we ensure the best possible care and outcome for our patients. Here’s where our Christchurch physiotherapists shine. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Your treatment plan will be as unique as you are. We’ll combine hands-on techniques, exercises, and lifestyle adjustments to help you regain strength, flexibility, and confidence, so you can get back to doing what you love: sports.

Prevention Is The Best Medicine

Of course, the best way to deal with sports injuries in Christchurch is to avoid them in the first place. Our friendly physiotherapists can help you create a personalised injury prevention plan. Whether it’s warming up properly, fine-tuning your technique, or understanding your body’s limits, we’ve got you covered. With our expert guidance, you can excel in your sporting endeavours while staying out of harm’s way.

[CTA] Sports injuries in Christchurch are part of the game, but they don’t have to keep you on the sidelines forever. With the guidance and support of our dedicated physiotherapists, you can recover, strengthen, and even excel in your chosen sport. So, don’t let an injury hold you back. Contact us today, and let’s get you back in the game!

Dental bonding is a cosmetic operation that uses a tooth-colored composite resin material to improve your smile. This treatment is used to fill gaps, repair chips, or alter the form and teeth color. Dental bonding, contrary to other cosmetic dental procedures such as porcelain veneers, is reversible. For more information, contact a Mayfair, Northeast Philadelphia dentist today. 

What is dental bonding? 

Dental bonding, also known as teeth bonding or composite bonding, is a cosmetic dentistry technique used to improve the appearance of your teeth. Your dentist will apply the tooth-colored resin substance to the impacted teeth during the operation to modify their form, size, or color.

Why is dental bonding recommended? 

Dental bonding is used to improve the appearance of your smile. The technique uses tooth-colored composite resin to:

• Cover up any cracks or chips in your teeth.
• Discoloration of the teeth can be concealed.
• Fill up any gaps or holes between your teeth.
• Increase the length of your teeth.
• Make your teeth a different shape.

Restorative dentistry uses the same composite resin substance used in dental bonding to:

• Fill in the cavities.
• Replace outdated silver dental fillings with a more aesthetically pleasing replacement.
• Protect exposed tooth roots caused by gum recession.

Is dental bonding common? 

Cosmetic dental bonding is a relatively popular procedure. It is, in fact, one of the most often-done treatments in dentistry today.

Dental bonding vs. veneers 

Porcelain veneers are custom-made ceramic shells that attach to your teeth’ front surfaces. To put them, your dentist usually needs to remove some enamel from your natural teeth. Porcelain veneers are not reversible after they have been applied. They will need to be replaced every 10 to 20 years.

Dental bonding, however, may not necessitate extensive enamel removal. Bonding is, therefore, totally reversible. Touchups will most likely be required every three to ten years.

You may hear dentists refer to “composite veneers.” This is when your dentist covers the whole surface of your tooth with composite resin material.

What happens before teeth bonding? 

Your dentist will discuss your aesthetic goals with you before dental bonding. They will also take dental X-rays and check your teeth and gums to ensure you are a good candidate for the surgery. If you have significant tooth decay, gum disease, or other major oral health issues, you should address those first.

Proper oral care is vital after dental bonding to keep your smile healthy and shiny. Brush your teeth at least twice daily using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and floss once daily. You should also see your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. 

The vegetarian and vegan community is expanding. There’s no reason to be surprised by the growing popularity of vegan and vegetarian diets in the health and entertainment industries.

Not only have vegans seen an increase in their consumption of vegan protein bars over the past few years, but the trend has caught on among non-vegans as well. Although it’s a common misconception that only vegans can eat vegetarian protein bars, an increasing number of non-vegans are deciding to incorporate these items into their diets. But do their benefits to buyers hold water?

Plant-Based Protein Bars

We are all aware that protein is a vital part of a healthy diet. The production of hormones, as well as maintaining a healthy metabolism, require protein. If you’re trying to get more protein into your diet but don’t want to eat meat or other animal products, vegan protein bars are a great option.

Vegan protein bars have many advantages

Vegan protein bars are delicious and satisfying even if you eat meat and other animal products. Despite being made entirely of plant-based ingredients, you may find that you enjoy these protein bars even more than your current favourite.

The vegan protein bars aid in weight loss because

Protein helps us feel fuller for longer periods of time than other types of food do because it takes longer to digest than other types of nutrients like fat or carbohydrates. Vegan protein bars provide sustained energy levels throughout the day instead of just at breakfast, like foods like bagels or cereal with milk would, which can help prevent overeating later in the day when dieting. Overeating can be avoided later in the day, which this will do (both of which are high in fat).

Having a vegan protein bar in your diet can help you maintain a healthy blood sugar level

Third, the skin benefits greatly from plant-based protein bars. Because it aids in muscle development, protein is an essential part of our diet. Protein is crucial for the health and repair of skin cells (including those found in our skin cells). However, the quality of the protein you eat matters. In contrast to animal sources like meat and dairy products, which are typically high in saturated fat, plant-based sources tend to be lower in fat but higher in fibre. An inflammatory response may result from consuming too much saturated fat.

The digestive system can benefit from eating vegan protein bars

Maintaining a healthy colon is directly related to maintaining a healthy gut, and the best way to do both is to eat foods that are low in sugar and high in fibre. Vegan protein bars are rich in these two nutrients because they use whole grains and other plant-based ingredients and because they contain little sugar because they don’t contain any animal products. For these two reasons, improving one’s digestive health by eating vegan protein bars is a good idea for anyone.

Enjoy the taste of vegan protein bars

Our vegan protein bars are delicious, but we can’t speak to the flavour of other brands. Anyone looking to maximise their workouts or who just wants a tasty snack in between meals will find that Real Food Bars are a great option.

There are many advantages to your health when you eat vegan protein bars. If you’re trying to maintain a healthy weight and feel full after eating, a Vegan Protein Bar is a great choice because it provides both protein and fibre.