The effects of caffeine in the body are numerous but focused on the central nervous system (CNS) and heart:

• It inhibits the absorption of Adenosine, a hormone related to restfulness and sleep
• It excites Epinephrine directly stimulating the body’s fight or flight response and weakens the immune system
• Cortisol commonly referred to as the “stress hormone” is elevated, which increases blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and moodiness. In addition, it suppresses the immune system and is related to increased abdominal fat.
• Dopamine, the “feel good chemical” is increased suggesting the potential addictive properties of caffeine
• Acetylcholine is also increased, which in turn stimulates the CNS

The affects of caffeine in the body look strangely familiar… like those of a stress response. Caffeine, like stress, stimulates the CNS and activates the fight or flight response (increased heart and breathing rate, glucose becomes readily available, pupil dilation, sweating, decreased focus on digestion). This response is incredibly useful when we are threatened for our lives, but ironically becomes a threat to us if we live in this perpetual state of stress. Stress hormones such as Cortisol and Epinephrine build up in our bodies over time leading to headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, high blood pressure, chronic fatigue, depression, and susceptibility to infections.

Caffeine also affects the body by:

• increasing metabolism
• increasing the breakdown of fat if consumed prior to exercise
• increasing physical performance
• increasing urination, which can lead to dehydration and calcium depletion
• stimulating smooth muscle leading to diarrhea or uterine cramping during menses

As most of us have experienced at one time or another, caffeine withdrawal can cause headaches lasting up to 5 days. The best way to decrease caffeine intake is to cut down by 1/2 cup of the caffeine source daily. This slow taper decreases the likelihood of withdrawal.

In short, caffeine is something best used in moderation and definitely less than 300 mg daily. Here is some additional info on caffeine:

7 oz drip coffee 115-175 mg
7 oz brewed coffee 80-135 mg
1 shot espresso 100 mg
Tea (green to black) 30-70 mg
Yerba mate 25-150 mg
Mountain dew 55 mg
Coke 45 mg
Pepsi 37 mg

Hold the point gently with the thumb of your other hand for 30 seconds. For some people the effects may be instant and others may need to continue holding the point for several minutes. Alternate pressing the points on both arms.

Almost all the clinical signs of anemia are directly related to “blood deficiency” in TCM. The top two are the most common symptoms:
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Headaches
• Pale skin
• Poor memory and concentration
• Numbness
• Cold hands and feet
• Vision problems, especially night-blindness
• Palpitations, rapid, or irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Delayed or scanty menses
• Brittle, peeling, or pale nails
• Dry skin and hair

Although vegetarianism is thought to be synonymous with alternative medicine, TCM advocates eating meat, especially for those with this pattern. In addition, incorporate more dark leafy greens into your diet. Generally, red colored foods are blood tonics i.e. beets, carrots, dark chocolate, berries, grapes, red beans etc. Not surprisingly, many of the herbs we use to treat this condition contain B vitamins, amino acids, and carotene, just like the foods listed above.

Typically herbs are given to supplement the blood, just as a vitamin supplement would be given in Allopathic medicine.

Chrysanthemum (Ju Hua) flowers decrease redness and wolfberries (Gou Qi Zi /Go Ji berries) lubricate and nourish the eyes.

In general, use a ratio of 1:2 flowers to berries. If your eyes are red but don’t feel overly dry, decrease the berries and up the flowers a little. If they’re more dry and scratchy, add a few more berries to the mix.

Start with 5 dried flowers and 10 berries. Add boiling water and steep for about 5 minutes. Strain if you like or eat the berries when you’re done. Gou Ji berries also make a great snack.

Most local health food stores carry wolfberries; especially if there is a bulk food section and chrysanthemum is found in many teahouses. After a few cups of this delicious tea, your eyes will feel more comfortable and look clearer. Enjoy!

This advice completely contradicts the principles behind the raw foods diet, which not everyone is suitable for.  (more…)

So, I’m here to encourage you to step out of your wheel and either act or let it go. It really is as easy as that. Psychological stress and has a cumulative effect and when out of hand, can be crippling. Many people will become so overwhelmed that instead of being productive, become completely apathetic. Even the smallest tasks are daunting. You may notice that your moods are unstable; you’re feeling anxious, depressed, or both. There may be vague pains that seem to wander about your body. Your abdomen feels uncomfortable and distended. These are all signs of stress. You don’t have to feel this way.

Some people benefit from posting sticky notes reminding them to breathe or relax. You might also add to take action. Another thing you can do is force yourself to take just a few minutes to step away and clear your mind. Try not thinking for a minute. It is difficult, but you’ll notice a sense of clarity as the chatter dies down. Many people after acupuncture report that they feel this way. After the first few treatments, some find feeling a little tired later that day. However, they soon find an increased level of productivity and clarity and instead of thinking about their to-do list, they’re already in motion.