A few months ago I had my annual checkup from my medical doctor. As part of the procedure he ordered a number of lab tests to check the chemical values of my blood and urine, along with an EKG. When the tests results came back, a couple of the values were out of the normal range. What should be done? Very often the medical approach is to prescribe some medications to bring the lab values back to within the normal range. Is this the best approach to take?
Before I comment further, let me clearly state that there are times when medications are necessary. But there should always be other considerations first. The chiropractic approach is always chiropractic first, drugs second, surgery last. Fortunately I have a good relationship with my MD and, although his first suggestion was medication, we agreed on an approach that did not involve taking any drugs. There were two of my blood values that were of concern. First, my testosterone levels were low. This is not uncommon for a man of my age. Second, my C-reactive protein levels were high. I believe anytime a person has abnormal lab values the first thing to do is to consider lifestyle issues that could cause the abnormalities. Was there something I was or wasn't doing that would result in my body working less that optimally?
In the case of low testosterone, it's easy to just say I'm getting older and that's just what's going to happen. The knee jerk reaction is to take hormone replacement, risk the side effects and not make any changes to my lifestyle. Instead I changed my exercise routine to include more strengthening of my big muscle groups. I also made sure I was getting plenty of high quality protein and fat in my diet, including increasing my red meat intake. Additionally, I took an herbal supplement (TestoGain from Douglas Labs) formulated to support testosterone production. Within three months my testosterone level was right in the middle of the normal range. My conclusion is that my low testosterone was the result of diet and exercise deficiencies and not my age.
High levels of C-reactive protein are indicative of an inflammatory process in the body. It is significant because low grade inflammation that elevates C-reactive protein is associated with cardiovascular problems. Stress is probably the greatest cause of this abnormal finding. This can be physical, chemical or emotional stress. In my case, I recognized stresses in all three areas. I reduced my consumption of wheat and white potatoes while increasing my consumption of green vegetables. My sleep quality also needed improving so I became more diligent in getting to bed at the same time each night and taking magnesium (Natural Calm) each evening. Managing emotional stress is an ongoing challenge, but I've tried to make sure I have down time just for me. Additionally, I increased my anti-oxidant and enzyme intake. Again within three months my C-reactive protein levels were well within the normal range.
When our lab values are abnormal, there is a reason. There is usually a lifestyle issue that is the cause and lifestyle changes can be corrective. It may be easier to take a prescription, but drugs all come with the risk of side effects and they don't necessarily get to the root of the problem. It takes more effort to actually make changes, but the long term results are better. Nothing beats a healthy chiropractic lifestyle.
I've given you my own case only as an example of what can be accomplished with some effort. Abnormal lab values can be corrected with lifestyle changes and nutrition without the use of drugs. What will you do when some of your lab results are abnormal?
