Gerber Chiropractic

Is Lipstick Making Consumers Sick?

Most consumers are accustomed to being on the lookout for the presence of harmful metals in water, food and other everyday items. However, a recent study conducted at the University of California, Berkeley, School of Public Health suggests that consumers should be conscious of the presence of metals in the lipsticks and glosses that they may be using several times a day.

The results of the study, which was recently published in the Environmental Health Perspectives journal, demonstrate that many commonly available lip colors contain not just lead but also aluminum, cadmium and chromium. Scientists also looked for other metals in the study, and concluded that some of these undesirable ingredients are present in quantities that have the potential for causing physical harm. The presence of these metals in lipstick is of primary concern because users most often ingest the product, meaning that they may be ingesting metals that can cause a variety of health issues including kidney disease.

During the study, the scientists studied 24 lip glosses and eight lipsticks. Each product was readily available at a drugstore or department store, and prices ranged from the very reasonable up to $24 for a tube of lipstick. Scientists discovered that the presence of metals was not relegated to one brand, store or price point. Instead, the presence of metals in potentially harmful amounts was found in all brands and in even the most expensive products.

Researchers who authored the study are quick to point out that this is a preliminary study at best. A great deal more research is required before definitive conclusions can be reached. Still, they seem to feel that the cosmetics industry should be rethinking the ingredients they use and the contaminants that accidentally find their way into lip products. The FDA, when commenting on the study, suggested that they felt little concern over the findings since most of the metals were present within such small quantities that they were well within recommended guidelines. Some health advocates nonetheless maintain that lip products can be made without such metals, and that such procedures should become industry standard practice.

One final note; at Gerber Chiropractic we now offer and provide the most comprehensive nutrition and health program in the Las Vegas area. Based on a 52-point blood panel and an in-depth analysis of your urine and hair, your Science Based Nutrition™ report includes recommendations for supplements, foods to avoid, a comprehensive review of your medications, side effects and more.

And yes, our test results even show indicators of the presence of toxic metals like the ones mentioned above.  If you would like a better idea of the type of analysis our testing provides, just click HERE for a sample report.  Even better, make an appointment today so that you may see your personal results.

Your Health . . . It’s Worth It!

Dr. Kate Gerber & Dr. John Gerber

Simple Exercises to Stretch Your Back

Don’t let a stiff back prevent you from participating in your favorite activities. In just a few moments, you can loosen up your aching back with three stretches. These exercises are appropriate for people of all ages. Whether you are young or old, back pain can definitely put a crimp in your style, but you can alleviate it by performing these stretches every morning when you awaken.

1. Warm Up the Lower Back

You can start this exercise even before you get out of bed. Lie on your back with your legs straight and your feet pointing toward the ceiling. Bend one knee, bringing it to your chest and holding it there with your hands. Bend the other knee until you are holding both knees against your chest. Hold the stretch for about 20 seconds before releasing your legs.

2. Stretch the Neck

The neck is an overlooked part of the back. It’s part of the spinal cord, so keeping it supple can really help with back pain. Take a seat on the floor, crossing your legs or assuming the butterfly position. Lift your right hand, placing it on the left side of your head. Gently pull your head toward your right shoulder, being careful not to lift the shoulder to meet your head. Hold the stretch for 15 seconds before switching to the other side.

3. Spinal Twist

Remain seated and keep your legs crossed. Place one leg over the other, turning it so that the knee points toward the ceiling. The opposite knee remains parallel with the ground. Place the opposite arm on the outside of the upraised knee and place the other hand flat on the floor. Twist gently, incorporating the head, neck, shoulders and torso. Hold the pose for 15 seconds before switching to the other side.

These simple stretches require only a few minutes each morning, yet they can make a world of difference in how your back feels. Take just a moment or two to warm your back up for the day ahead, and you’ll be ready to face any challenge.

If you are having chronic back pain and/or problems, at Gerber Chiropractic we are here to help.  We recommend that you don't start any exercise program without consulting a chiropractor or other health care professional.  Please read our Medical Disclaimer.

Your Health . . . It’s Worth It!

Dr. Kate Gerber & Dr. John Gerber

The Best Defense Against the Las Vegas Heat

Summer has finally arrived . . . and with a vengeance.  Compliments of the Gerber Chiropractic Team and the National Center for Environmental Health at the CDC, here are some ways to stay healthy during this summer’s heat.

The Best Defense is Prevention 

• Drink more fluids (nonalcoholic), regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Warning: If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask him how much you should drink while the weather is hot.
• Don’t drink liquids that contain alcohol, caffein or large amounts of sugar–these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps. See our previous post "Hydrating in Las Vegas".
• Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library–even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat. Call your local health department to see if there are any heat-relief shelters in your area.
• Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• NEVER leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle.
  Although any one at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Check regularly on:
  
  •         Infants and young children
  •         People aged 65 or older
  •         People who have a mental illness
  •         Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure
• Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, of course, need much more frequent watching.

If You Must be Out in the Heat . . .

• Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
• Cut down on exercise. If you must exercise, drink two to four glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour.  A sports beverage can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. Warning: If you are on a low-salt diet, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage. Remember the warning in the first “tip” (above), too.
• Try to rest often in shady areas.
• Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat (also keeps you cooler) and sunglasses and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher (the most effective products say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels).

If we can help you regain or maintain your health in any way, feel free to call Gerber Chiropractic at 702-878-0056 or 702-658-1420 or email us at WeCare@DrsGerber.com.

Your Health . . . It’s Worth It!

Dr. Kate Gerber & Dr. John Gerber