Boost Your Immune System with Antioxidant-Rich Food

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As the temperatures drop and we ease into the fall season, now is the perfect time to focus on strengthening your immune system. With flu season on the horizon, supporting your health becomes even more important. One of the best ways to give your body a boost is by incorporating antioxidant-rich foods into your diet. These powerful nutrients can help keep your immune system strong and resilient as you transition into the fall. In this month’s post, we’ll explore what antioxidants are, why they’re essential for your immune health, and how you can enjoy them through delicious, wholesome foods.

What Are Antioxidants?

Antioxidants are vital compounds that protect the body’s cells by neutralizing harmful free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress. This stress can lead to cell damage and has been linked to various health problems, including heart disease, cancer, and aging-related conditions. By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants can help reduce the risk of chronic disease, support the immune system, and promote your overall health.

Why Antioxidants Matter for Your Immune System

A strong immune system is key to fighting off infections and diseases, including those caused by free radicals. Antioxidants support your body’s immune function by protecting immune cells from damage and ensuring they operate effectively. By including antioxidant-rich foods in your diet, you help your immune system stay strong and efficient.

How to Boost Your Antioxidant Intake

Incorporating antioxidant-rich foods into your diet is both enjoyable and beneficial to your health. Here are some top picks to help you get started:

Vegetables:
Leafy greens are among the best sources of antioxidants because they’re packed with vitamins C and K which can help keep your immune system strong and your health on track. You’ll also find antioxidants in other vegetables like carrots, onions, garlic, and potatoes. Adding a handful of these veggies to your daily meals is an easy and effective way to give your immune system the support it needs.

Berries:
You’ve probably heard berries referred to as a superfood, and for good reason. Not only are they a tasty snack, but they’re also packed with powerful antioxidants like ellagic acid, resveratrol, and vitamin C. Blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, and raspberries are all excellent choices to protect your cells and boost your immune system. Enjoy them fresh, in smoothies, or as a topping with Greek yogurt!

Dark Chocolate:
You read that right – dark chocolate! Rich in antioxidants, dark chocolate can be a tasty treat that also supports your health. Research suggests that you opt for chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content to reap the maximum benefits. Just remember to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

 

Are you ready to bring balance and vitality back into your life? Exceed Hormone Specialists is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your one-on-one consultation.

Five common signs of hormonal imbalance.

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Have you noticed that you have not been feeling yourself lately but can’t put your finger on what’s going on? You may have a hormonal imbalance. Hormonal imbalances occur when the body experiences too much or too little of a hormone in the bloodstream. When this happens, your whole body can feel off!

At Exceed, we recognize that your hormones play a pivotal role not only in your physical health but also in your ability to enjoy life to the fullest. Your hormones help regulate key aspects of your life, including your appetite, metabolism, sleep, heart rate, and your mood. If you’re experiencing a hormonal imbalance, we want you to feel empowered to regain the spark that sustains you! The sooner you and your medical team can identify a hormonal imbalance, the sooner you can begin your path to lasting solutions. Here are five common signs you may have a hormonal imbalance:

1. Mood Swings

Does your mood fluctuate from moment to moment? Do you find it difficult to remain focused on your daily tasks or to control your emotions? You may want to have your hormones evaluated. When the body experiences a shift in estrogen levels, the release of serotonin and dopamine can be hindered, causing significant mood swings. This can be incredibly challenging for your mental well-being and make it difficult to conduct your daily activities.

2. Irregular Periods

Have you experienced changes in your menstrual cycle, such as missed periods, unusually heavy or light flows, or spotting between periods? Hormonal imbalances, particularly in estrogen and progesterone, can severely disrupt your menstrual cycle. Monitoring your periods each month and discussing any irregularities with your healthcare provider can help to identify potential hormonal issues.

3. Insomnia/Poor Sleep

If you are struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night, your cortisol and melatonin may be a factor. These two hormones work to regulate your sleep patterns and significantly impact your sleep health. An imbalance can lead to insomnia or poor-quality sleep, leaving you feeling fatigued and unrested.

4. Unexplained Weight Gain

Are you gaining weight despite no significant changes in your diet or exercise routine? Insulin, cortisol, and thyroid hormones influence your metabolism and fat storage. When the body experiences an imbalance in these hormones, there can be unexpected weight gain that is difficult to lose.

5. Low Libido

Another potential sign of a hormonal imbalance is a decreased sex drive. Testosterone and estrogen are two hormones that play a crucial role in regulating your libido. When these hormone levels are not in balance, it can lead to a noticeable reduction in your interest in sexual activity. This diminished sex drive can affect not only your intimate relationships but also your overall sense of well-being and quality of life.

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional who can conduct appropriate tests and provide guidance on managing your hormonal health. Remember, understanding and addressing hormonal imbalances is a key step toward feeling like yourself again and enjoying life to the fullest!

 

 

Are you ready to bring balance and vitality back into your life? Exceed Hormone Specialists is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your one-on-one consultation.

Exciting update for our Nurse Practitioner, Presley Pulse.

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Dear Exceed Family,

We have a bittersweet upcoming change within our practice. Our wonderful Nurse Practitioner, Presley Pulse, will be moving to Florida at the end of September. We are deeply grateful for her dedication and the excellent care she has provided during her time with us. We are excited about Presley and her husband Cam’s next chapter, but we will miss her dearly. If you see Presley next time you are in the office, please wish her well!

Our practice will continue to provide the high-quality care for men and women that you have come to know and trust. We are actively recruiting skilled professionals to join our team and are committed to ensuring a smooth transition.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office. Thank you for your continued trust in Exceed Hormone Specialists. As always it is an honor to care for you.

 

Sincerely,
Heather P Chauhan, MD

Best practices to keep your skin healthy this summer

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Summer has arrived, bringing us longer days and warmer weather. While we take advantage of the opportunity to spend time outdoors, adapting our skincare routines to address the challenges that summer can bring. The combination of heat, pesky mosquito bites, and increased sun exposure can impact our skin, leading to sunburn, dryness, irritation, and breakouts. But with a few mindful adjustments, you can protect and nourish your skin, keeping it healthy all summer.

Here are five summer skincare tips to keep your skin glowing all season…

Wear Sunscreen Daily

All throughout the year, our skin tirelessly works to shield itself from the harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation emitted by the sun. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate through and damage our skin. While sunshine is an excellent source of Vitamin D, the risk of sunburn and sun damage should be addressed. Dermatologists universally recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day. Try to make it a non-negotiable part of your morning routine, like brushing your teeth. To make it easier, you can also stock up on makeup products like foundation that include sunscreen in the formula! If you plan to be outdoors for an extended period, be sure to reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Remember, a good sunscreen will be your skin’s best friend throughout the summer.

Exfoliate Regularly

Gentle exfoliation is essential to maintaining smooth, glowing skin. By removing dead skin cells, exfoliation helps your skin better absorb moisturizers, serums, and sunscreen. Opt for a mild exfoliant and use it 2-3 times a week to avoid irritation. If you’re new to exfoliating, purchase an extra gentle product to ease your skin into it. Whether you choose a physical scrub or a chemical exfoliant, this step will leave your skin feeling fresh and rejuvenated.

Prevent Bug Bites

Humans are not the only ones who enjoy summer evenings on the patio! Mosquitoes are everywhere during the warm weather months, especially for those of us who live near bodies of water or decorate our yards with outdoor fountains. When you’re spending an evening outdoors with your family, make sure to apply bug repellent to protect yourself from itchy bug bites! There are many non-toxic bug repellants made with essential oils such as peppermint, lemongrass, and citronella that will help prevent bites and protect your skin. If you get a bug bite, avoid the urge to scratch – instead, treat the affected area with calamine lotion or a baking soda paste.

Change Up Your Moisturizer

The sweltering summer heat and humidity can turn our skin oily and prone to breakouts. Switch to a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated without clogging your pores. Gel-based moisturizers made with hyaluronic acid and glycerin are an excellent option to keep your skin hydrated and fresh. Look for products that are non-comedogenic and hormone friendly to help prevent acne and keep your skin clear.

Soothe Sunburns

Despite our best efforts, sometimes sunburns are inevitable. If you find yourself with red, painful skin, treat it gently. Apply aloe vera gel or a cool compress to soothe the burn. Aloe vera is known for its healing properties and can provide instant relief from sunburn. Keep your skin moisturized and avoid further sun exposure until the burn has healed. Taking care of your sunburn promptly will help to manage pain and accelerate the healing process.

By following these simple yet effective tips, you can enjoy the summer sun while keeping your skin looking its best. Remember, your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it deserves all the attention you can give. Stay sun-safe, stay hydrated, and most importantly, enjoy every moment of this season.

 

 

Are you ready to bring balance and vitality back into your life? Exceed Hormone Specialists is here to help. Connect with us online or give us a call at (901) 312-7899.

3 Tips to Support Your Mental Health

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May is celebrated as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to promote our state of mind and raise awareness about the common struggles we will face periodically throughout our lives. In the United States, roughly 1 out of 5 adults experience mental health issues. Living in an increasingly fast-paced society can contribute to these challenges. While everyone can be affected at different times, numerous tools and resources are available to help navigate these difficulties. As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, let’s keep the conversation going and make it a habit to check in on our mental health regularly. This month’s post will explore three practical ways to support your mental well-being.

Take care of your body

Taking care of your body is key to protecting and enhancing your mental health. When stress and other mental health struggles arise, it’s essential to establish a foundation of self-care. This means fueling your body with nutritious foods, staying active through regular exercise, and practicing calming breathing techniques. Ensuring you get enough sleep is also important to give your body and mind the reset it needs. We all feel more energized and better equipped to face a new day when we get a good night’s sleep! By prioritizing these self-care habits, you will not only manage stress more effectively, but you’ll also nurture your overall mental well-being.

Get Support

Sometimes, when life becomes chaotic, mental health struggles can feel inevitable. In these moments, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone—there is no shame in seeking help from a trusted friend, relative, or professional. It’s also important to acknowledge your emotions and understand that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Building a support network can make a significant difference in how you cope with stress and mental health challenges. Embrace the support around you, and remember that caring for your mental health is as important as caring for your physical well-being.

Build Strong Relationships

Humans are inherently social creatures who are not meant to walk through life alone. Building friendships and maintaining social interactions are good not only for the mind but also for the body. Numerous studies have shown that those who engage in social interactions regularly are less likely to experience some mental health struggles including anxiety and depression. Additionally, those who frequently interact with others are more likely to have higher self-esteem, greater empathy, and stronger immune systems! As we strive to improve our mental health, nurturing and strengthening our relationships should be a central focus. Cultivating and maintaining meaningful connections can provide invaluable support, enhance the quality of our lives, and contribute significantly to our overall health and well-being.

 

Are you ready to bring balance and vitality back into your life? Exceed Hormone Specialists is here to help. Connect with us online or give us a call at (901) 312-7899.

Benefits of Meal Prepping

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In today’s fast-paced world, where time is often a scarce commodity, the practice of meal prepping serves as a sustainable and simple solution for those seeking efficiency, health, and convenience in their daily lives. Meal prepping involves the planning, preparing, and packaging of meals ahead of time, offering a large variety of benefits that extend beyond just saving time in the kitchen. From promoting healthier eating habits to reducing food waste and saving money, the advantages of incorporating meal prepping into your lifestyle are endless. In this post, we will uncover the various benefits of meal prepping, highlighting its positive impact on health, finances, and overall well-being.

What is Meal Prep?

Meal prep is the concept of planning and preparing food ahead of time. One of the key elements to remember about meal prep is that there are no specific rules to follow. Whether you decide to prepare and freeze an entire week’s worth of meals or simply chop and package your side dishes ahead of time, meal prep should entail what works best for your specific needs. As with any practice, meal prep does require some time and dedication in your weekly routine. It’s been found that the average person spends about one hour cooking per day. By dedicating a few hours of meal prep for the entire week, you will find your evenings freed up to enjoy other activities and time with loved ones.

The Benefits of Meal Prep

As mentioned earlier, there are several benefits that come with planning your meals ahead of time – the first being physical health benefits. For many, the hustle and bustle of daily life can oftentimes lead us to make quick and convenience-based meal decisions that may not carry the essential nutrients our bodies need to lead a healthy lifestyle. By planning your meals ahead of time, you will have more control over the quality of food that you consume throughout the week, giving you ample opportunity to incorporate balanced and nourishing ingredients. For optimal health benefits, experts recommend a dietary composition of 25% protein, 25% carbohydrates, and 50% fruits and/or vegetables.

Aside from the physical benefits, there are several mental health benefits that can come from meal prepping. By planning ahead and eliminating hours spent in the kitchen, you will free yourself up to enjoy more time with loved ones or engage in activities that bring you happiness. Additionally, meal prepping removes the stress of quick decision-making – you can rest assured knowing that your meals are prepared with wholesome ingredients for you and your family.

Lastly are the financial benefits of meal prepping. There are moments in all of our lives where we are in a rush and make a quick stop at a fast food chain or at the store for a single-served meal. While this may save us time, it certainly does not save us money. In 2023, the average American spent about $148 per month on fast food alone. This number does not include dine-in restaurants or single-serve meal runs from the grocery store. Meal prepping will give you both time and money back!

Easy Ways to Start Meal Prepping

It may seem overwhelming to start meal prepping, but start small! Begin by jotting down a list of your favorite meals, breaking them down into specific ingredients that you can purchase in bulk. Once you have stocked up on your essentials, divide them into portioned containers for the week ahead.

Consider setting aside a designated day each week to handle all of your meal prepping. Having dedicated time to meal prep will help you to establish a routine and will make the process feel more manageable. Start with simple recipes that require minimal ingredients and preparation time. As you become more accustomed to meal prepping, you can start incorporating more complex dishes into your routine!

It is also helpful to label your containers with the meal date and time that you have cooked them. This will ensure freshness and support organization in your refrigerator and pantry. Another helpful tip is to take advantage of your appliances like slow cookers or Instant Pots – these helpful tools make meal prepping even easier! Ultimately, no matter where you start, you will quickly enjoy the benefits and convenience that meal prepping brings to your daily life.

 

Are you ready to bring balance and vitality back into your life? Exceed Hormone Specialists is here to help.
Connect with us online or give us a call at (901) 312-7899

Soak Up The Sunshine Vitamin: Elevate Your Vitamin D This Spring

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As March comes to a quick close and we welcome spring, it’s time to enjoy the sunshine and its myriad of benefits. Beyond its ability to brighten our days, sunlight is essential for providing our bodies with Vitamin D. During the winter months, obtaining enough of this vital nutrient can become quite a challenge. That’s why spring offers the perfect opportunity to lace up your favorite walking shoes and take advantage of the longer days by spending time outdoors soaking up that valuable Vitamin D.

What is Vitamin D?

Vitamin D is both a critical nutrient that we consume and a hormone that our bodies produce. It’s a fat-soluble vitamin made from the cholesterol in our skin. Vitamin D is a super nutrient that serves many purposes including:

  • Promotion of calcium absorption in the gut
  • Assistance in bone growth and bone remodeling
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Slows the growth of some cancer cells.

Practically speaking, Vitamin D helps our bodies as we age. Due to its ability to promote bone growth, Vitamin D works to prevent our bones from becoming too brittle and our joints from becoming inflamed. Though it is one of the easiest Vitamins to absorb, it’s often one that many people around the world are deficient in.

How Can You Get Vitamin D?

There are a few ways to get Vitamin D into your system. Research has shown that sunlight is one of the best ways for your body to receive Vitamin D due to the body’s ability to self-regulate the amount it receives, overall reducing the chance of toxicity. For optimal results, experts recommend spending between 5 and 30 minutes a day outdoors in the sun. This is just enough time to take a walk at your favorite park, spend some time laying out by the pool, or enjoy a quiet morning out in the garden. Please keep in mind that if your skin is prone to sunburn, you should consult with your dermatologist before spending prolonged periods of time outdoors without applying proper sun protection.

If it is not feasible for you to get an adequate amount of Vitamin D from the sun, you can also supplement with tablets. Vitamin D supplements are available over-the-counter at your local CVS or Walgreens. There are two forms of Vitamin D that you can purchase. Vitamin D2 is made from plants, and Vitamin D3 is made from animals. Both types of Vitamin D carry similar and equal benefits, so consult with your doctor for their best recommendation on which supplement you should purchase.

 

Are you ready to bring balance and vitality back into your life? Exceed Hormone Specialists is here to help.
Connect with us online or give us a call at (901) 312-7899

Alleviate Common Aches and Pains Through Low-Impact Exercise

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Have you noticed that with each passing year, everyday tasks like bending, reaching, or kneeling require a little more effort? If you have, rest assured – you’re not alone! As we age, it’s entirely natural to encounter familiar aches and pains that can make our daily routines feel a tad more challenging. Simple movements may quickly reveal discomfort, often arising from inflammation that our joints undergo over time. However, in the midst of the hurdles that come with aging, incorporating low-impact exercise into our schedule can serve not only to alleviate these aches, but also to strengthen our bodies against future bouts of tension. These gentle exercises play a pivotal role in improving the body’s blood circulation, ultimately mitigating inflammation by reducing lactic acid and promoting graceful aging. In this post, we will cover three low-impact exercises designed to alleviate common aches and pains, ensuring a more comfortable and active lifestyle.

Yoga

Yoga is a tried and true practice that has been known and enjoyed for over 5,000 years. Not only does yoga improve mental health by providing a healthy release for stress, it has also been proven to reduce inflammation, build strength, improve flexibility, and promote balance. Some studies have found that practicing yoga on a weekly basis has provided more effective pain relief than certain procedures. The best part about Yoga is that you can practice from the comfort of your own home! Grab a mat from a local sports store, find a yoga instructor online, and start practicing for 20 to 30 minutes per day for optimal results.

Water Aerobics

If you enjoy spending time in the water and want to experience relief from aches and pains, joining a water aerobics class could be worth considering. Water aerobics provides numerous benefits for alleviating common discomforts, primarily due to water’s buoyancy, which reduces stress on muscles and joints that result from gravitational pull. Practicing water aerobics provides a refreshing workout while simultaneously building strength through activities like treading water and swimming laps. Those dealing with chronic pains such as arthritis, hip, and knee pain often find relief in the soothing movements of water aerobics.

Pilates

Pilates is an excellent choice for anyone seeking an exercise regimen that balances challenge with gentleness, making daily activities feel a little more manageable. Pilates targets the core muscles through low-impact movements, prioritizing the development of strength, flexibility, and posture. By integrating Pilates into your weekly routine, you can expect to experience a reduction in discomfort when performing daily tasks like lifting, sitting, or bending. Whether you opt to practice Pilates from home or prefer the structured environment of a local studio, the adaptability and accessibility of this exercise caters to individuals of all ages and fitness levels.

 

Are you ready to bring balance and vitality back into your life? Exceed Hormone Specialists is here to help.
Connect with us online or give us a call at (901) 312-7899

Vitamins and Supplements to Include in Your Daily Routine

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In our fast-paced world, staying healthy can be a real challenge. Between juggling hectic schedules, relying on convenience-based foods, and facing various environmental factors often means we forget the importance of getting the right nutrients in our daily diet. While a balanced diet forms the foundation of excellent nutrition, vitamins and supplements act as an additional pillar of support to your overall health and wellbeing. Vitamins and supplements help promote essential functions including energy production, the immune system, and tissue repair. In this post, we will identify 5 vitamins and supplements for you to include in your daily routine.

CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a super nutrient that serves multiple purposes. It’s a substance that is found in almost every cell of the body and actively works to convert food into energy. CoQ10 has gained recognition for its role in supporting heart health. Some research even suggests that CoQ10 can help reduce the risk of heart disease, including heart failure. As an antioxidant, it helps protect the heart from oxidative stress. Additional benefits include lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. While some dietary sources like salmon, spinach, meat, and whole grains contain CoQ10, supplementation can be beneficial, especially for those with specific health concerns.

Omega-3 Fish Oil

Another important supplement to incorporate into your daily routine is Omega-3 fish oil. Packed with essential fatty acids like EPA and DHA, Omega-3s play a crucial role in brain function, joint health, and inflammation regulation. In addition, Omega-3s have been shown to prevent hypertension, coronary heart disease, and various cancers including breast and colon. Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are excellent dietary sources of Omega-3, but for those who find it challenging to consume enough fish regularly, supplements can be a great alternative.

MultiVitamin

No matter what your health concerns or goals are, adding a MultiVitamin into your daily routine is a comprehensive way to improve your vitamin intake. It provides a broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals and ensures that your body receives the essential nutrients it needs for overall well-being. Exceed recommends and offers Pure Encapsulation’s MultiVitamin that includes Vitamins A through E, Biotin, Thiamin, Zinc, and more. Keep in mind that while a MultiVitamin should not replace a balanced diet, it can serve as a valuable supplement to fill in potential nutritional gaps.

Cortisol Manager

Stress is an inevitable part of modern life, and its impact on our health should not be underestimated. Cortisol, known as the stress hormone, can have detrimental effects when chronically elevated. Lifestyle changes including mindful meditation, exercise, and rest are excellent ways to manage stress, however, depending on your stress levels, a cortisol manager supplement can come in handy. Cortisol Manager supplements often contain a blend of natural herbs such as Ashwagandha or Magnolia along with other nutrients that support healthy cortisol levels, fostering stress management and overall well-being.

Probiotics

Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about your gut health. Probiotics, often referred to as the “good” bacteria, play a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy digestive system. They support the balance of gut microbiota, aiding in smooth digestion and nutrient absorption. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods like Greek yogurt, Kefir, or Kombucha into your diet or taking a daily probiotic supplement can contribute to a healthier gut environment.

 

Are you ready to bring balance and vitality back into your life? Exceed Hormone Specialists is here to help.
Connect with us online or give us a call at (901) 312-7899

Welcome to Exceed – Brokke Hall

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Brokke is most excited to help our patients experience a renewed zest for life, and we can’t wait to introduce you in person!

Before joining Exceed Hormone, Brokke gained valuable experience working as a charge nurse on a medical-surgical telemetry unit and as an Assistant Director of Nursing at an ambulatory surgery center. Brokke holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Tennessee and a B.S. in Nursing from New York University. 

In 2019, Brokke earned her M.S.N from University of Texas and became a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. She is a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Sigma Theta Tau honors nursing society, and the Tennessee Nurse Practitioner Association. Brokke is also pursuing a designation as a NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner.

In her free time, she enjoys cooking, reading, and traveling with her husband and children. We feel so fortunate that Brokke has returned to Memphis and is here to help us serve all of our wonderful patients.

Please help us welcome Brokke to the Exceed Hormone Specialists  family next time you are in the office.