Cold & Flu Season Vs. Acupuncture: How Acupuncture Helps Keep You From Getting Sick

This year, it is projected that the United States will witness an estimated 1 billion cases of colds and 95 million instances of the flu. While the annual onset of cold and flu season remains an inevitable occurrence, our approach to finding relief is undergoing a transformation.

The most straightforward means of safeguarding oneself against the flu involves fortifying the immune system. Nevertheless, this precaution does not entirely preclude exposure to airborne viral particles. Consequently, the primary line of defense against the flu, or any other ailment, resides in the reinforcement of one's immunity.

In the context of preserving well-being during the cold and flu season, acupuncture offers a wealth of benefits. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine respectively can contribute to the prevention of colds and the flu by enhancing the immune system through the precise insertion of needles into specific points along the body's energy meridians.

Within Chinese medicine, the foundation of disease prevention centers on fortifying the exterior protective layer of the body known as Wei Qi or defensive energy. This entails targeting acupuncture points recognized for enhancing the circulation of both blood and energy, thereby bolstering the body's defenses.

Furthermore, acupuncture can also provide relief and expedited recovery for those already afflicted with a cold or the flu by alleviating present symptoms such as chills, fever, body aches, runny nose, congestion, sore throat, and cough. While providing immediate relief, these treatments concurrently reduce the likelihood of upper respiratory tract infections and curtail the duration of the illness.

Enhance Your Wei Qi and Maintain Optimal Health

In the words of Huangdi Neijing, "To treat disease that has already developed is comparable to the behavior of those persons who begin to dig a well after they have become thirsty, and of those who begin to cast weapons after they have already engaged in battle. Would these actions not be too late?"

The changing seasons invariably impact the body's environment, bringing with them the cold, flu viruses, and the accompanying discomfort.

If you are susceptible to frequent colds, experience low energy levels, or require an extended recuperation period following an illness, it is possible that your Wei Qi is deficient. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine practitioners possess the expertise to detect health issues in their nascent stages by evaluating subtle physical indicators and assessing an individual's emotional well-being, thus preventing the progression to severe illness.

Upon identifying the nature of an imbalance, a customized treatment plan can be tailored to your unique needs. This regimen may encompass acupuncture, herbal therapy, Tui Na, as well as dietary, exercise, and lifestyle recommendations.

Schedule a Seasonal Wellness Assessment

Acupuncture, through the strategic placement of needles at key points along the body's energy channels, can bolster the immune system. These points are renowned for augmenting blood and energy circulation and fortifying the outer defense layers of the skin and muscles (Wei Qi), thereby preventing the intrusion of germs and viruses.

Practice Good Hygiene

Establishing sound lifestyle and hygiene practices has been empirically proven to mitigate the risk of falling ill. Research indicates that the primary reason for the surge in colds and flu during cold weather is the increased indoor proximity to others. Minimize your susceptibility to germs by adhering to regular handwashing and refraining from touching your face.

Prioritize Rest

Ancient Chinese wisdom, as embodied in the Nei Ching, advocates for an early bedtime, restful sleep, and a late rise, allowing the sun's rays to gradually warm the atmosphere. This preserves your Yang Qi for the critical task of warming the body. Even individuals with hectic schedules can enhance their well-being by indulging in extra sleep on weekends.

Stress Management

Seek outlets to alleviate stress. According to Chinese medicine, stress, frustration, and unresolved anger can significantly impair the immune system and render the body susceptible to pathogens. Incorporate daily relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and exercise into your routine. Acupuncture has also been found effective in addressing stress, anxiety, and depression.

Seasonal acupuncture sessions serve to invigorate the internal organ systems and address minor discomforts before they escalate into more serious health concerns. We encourage you to contact Asheville Intergrative Acupuncture today to explore how acupuncture can support your well-being throughout this cold and flu season.

As a Licensed Acupuncturist and Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Dr. Krystal Kinnuen can help keep you from getting sick. With over 12 years of experience helping others. Dr. Kystal Kinnuen also specializes in fertility, treating pain, digestive health, mental health, and women’s health. 

Call (or text) 828-739-0345 to contact us today to schedule your acupuncture appointment. You can also book an appointment directly by clicking here. We look forward to getting you started on your path to health and wellness.

Improving Fertility Through Acupuncture

Around 20% of women in the U.S. have trouble getting pregnant after a year of trying, which is considered as infertility. If this sounds like you or if you're just hoping to boost your chances of having a baby sooner, you might be curious about giving acupuncture a shot. But the big question is, does it really help? And if so, how and when's the best time to try it?

Let's dive in and see what the research has to say about acupuncture and its role in fertility.

What is Acupuncture? 

Originating from ancient Chinese medicine, acupuncture involves the precise placement of thin metallic needles on specific points of the body. These needles might be stimulated manually or with electric currents. The underlying belief is that this process harnesses the body's natural healing powers and promotes overall well-being.

Can It Assist in Boosting Fertility? 

Research on this topic presents a mixed bag. Several studies affirm its potential benefits, especially for women with conditions such as PCOS, hypothyroidism, or ovulation challenges. However, the exact mechanism of how acupuncture aids fertility remains under exploration.

Is Acupuncture Genuinely Effective for Fertility? 

One notable finding reveals that women who underwent acupuncture prior to their embryo transfer had double the pregnancy success rate compared to those who did not. Moreover, those undergoing IVF and received acupuncture sessions before and after embryo transfer increased their pregnancy rates from 26% to 42%.

However, it's essential to note the debate around whether the effectiveness of acupuncture is a physiological result or possibly a placebo effect. Some studies that compared traditional acupuncture to "sham acupuncture" did not identify a significant difference in outcomes.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Traditional practitioners believe it's about balancing the body's energy flow, promoting overall health. More contemporary views suggest acupuncture may stimulate the central nervous system, releasing certain beneficial chemicals that promote physical and emotional health. Regardless, many individuals undergoing IVF report feeling more relaxed and less stressed after acupuncture sessions, though the exact mechanism remains a subject of research.

How Often is Acupuncture Required for Fertility? 

The frequency of sessions varies based on individual needs and their specific fertility journey. Typically, sessions might range from once to three times a week.

When to Start and Conclude Acupuncture for Fertility? 

For optimal benefits, it's often recommended to commence acupuncture about three months prior to conception. Some individuals maintain sessions into the initial stages of pregnancy, believing it might help in reducing the risk of miscarriage. For those undergoing IVF, timely sessions around embryo transfer have shown potential benefits.

Does it Benefit Male Fertility? 

Research in this area is ongoing. Some studies suggest acupuncture might enhance sperm quality. Laser acupuncture, where lasers replace needles, has also shown promise in increasing sperm motility and concentration.

Are There Complementary Treatments to Consider?

 Absolutely. Engaging in regular exercise, monitoring BMI, maintaining a nutritious diet rich in fruits and vegetables, managing stress, and considering specific vitamins (e.g., coenzyme Q) can all play roles in enhancing fertility.

Potentail Fertility Benefits

While the exact mechanisms of acupuncture's effects are still being unraveled, there's a growing body of evidence suggesting potential fertility benefits. For those on a fertility journey, combining acupuncture with a healthy lifestyle could offer promising results.

At Asheville Intergrative Acupuncture, Dr. Krystal Kinnunen, DAOM, L. AC, is certified through the National Certification Commission For Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Traditional Oriental Medicine. She has been practicing acupuncture for 12 years, and in addition to infertility, she treats various other issues, including maternity and postpartum care, chronic pain, mental health, digestive health, and women’s health. 

Call (or text) 828-739-0345 to contact us today to schedule your acupuncture appointment and get started on your path to wellness and fertility. You can also book an appointment directly or use the contact form to reach us.

Acupuncture for Immunity

Chances are if you are reading this article, that you probably already know how amazing acupuncture is. I don’t need to tell you that it involves using thin needles to stimulate and increase the flow of chi or energy throughout the body. But you may be surprised to learn that those same acupuncture needles can assist our immune systems to reach there full potential and help keep us healthy throughout the upcoming flu, cold and covid season. In this article we will discuss how acupuncture helps maintain optimum health, which chronic diseases you can avoid with prevenative acupuncture care, and where you can go to find the best care in Western North Carolina. 

How Acupuncture Aids the Immune System

Acupuncture, a hallmark of traditional Chinese medicine, offers more than meets the eye. Clinical studies suggest it's not just a treatment but a proactive shield against ailments like colds, potentially reducing infection spread and illness duration.

In Chinese Medicine, it is believed that illnesses often emerge when our organ systems are imbalanced, making us vulnerable to germs and viruses. Therefore, it is imparitive to keep your immune system strong. By stimulating specific body points, acupuncture harmonizes the immune system. By increasing vital components, like red and white cell counts, T-cell levels and both cellular and humoral immunity in those who suffer from immune-related illness or disease. 

Cause and Effect: The Weakend Immune System

From the cold, winter weather, to exposure to toxins, lack of immune boosting vitamins like Vitamin D, poor choice in diet and even stress can all impact your immune system. Any one of these can lead to a weakened or dysfunctional immune system which unfortunately is a major component behind most all chronic disease. Sadly, once the immune system is compromised, it is no longer able to fight against things that healthy immune systems have no problem fighting off. Things like frequent colds, reocurring infections and allergies all stem from a weakened immune system. 

The following list includes compromised immunity related disorders:

• AIDS

• Asthma

• Autoimmune disease

• Cancer

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis)

• Multiple sclerosis

• Psoriasis

• Rheumatoid arthritis

Keeping Your Immune System Strong with Acupuncture

If you or someone you know suffers from an immune disorder, you may be wondering how you will find relief from your symptoms and rejuvinate your immune system. Well, acupunture may very well be the answer you have been searching for. Acupuncture does more than just treat the symptoms. It targets the root cause of disease which in turn stregthens your immunity. 

By harnessing the power of the autonomic nervous system, acupuncture targets select acupoints to elicit potent immune responses. The result is a notable rise in interferon levels. Interferons are proteins that are a part of your bodies natural defenses. These interferons act as the immune system's messenger hormones. Basically they report to the immune system when germs or cancer cells are present in the body. So when your interferons are strong and working as they should they help keep the body from succumbing to things like colds, ultimately keeping you from developing one of the many diseases related to a compromised immune system, as mentioned above. One of the best ways to keep your interferons and overall immunity strong is through regular acupuncture treatments.

Acupuncture Vs Immune Diseases and Inflammation 

Inflammation is a common thread linking numerous diseases. This inflammatory process can alter our body's immune responses, notably in conditions like cancer. Here's where acupuncture steps in with its anti-inflammatory effects, offering a potential key to its effectiveness in treating various ailments. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) emphasizes a proactive approach - believing it's better to prevent or intervene early in diseases rather than treating them after they've taken hold. This idea of "preconditioning" with acupuncture – using it as a preventative measure – isn't new. It's been a trusted practice from ancient times to today, suggesting a promising avenue for disease prevention.

The Best Acupuncturist In Asheville

Whether you are looking for an acupunturist to boost your immune system or aid the body for other reasons, Dr. Krystal Kinnunen has been utilizing the ancient practice of acupuncture for over 12 years to help many people with many different aches, pains, and other ailments. Certified through the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Traditional Oriental Medicine, with a clinical focus on treating women’s health issues, chronic pain, and digestive health issues Dr. Kinnunen also specializes in the treatment of infertility, pregnancy symptoms, and postpartum care. Dozens of client testimonials praise her as they share their stories about how Dr. Kinnunen helped improve their lives! 

Through Asheville Integrative Acupuncture, Dr. Krystal Kinnunen can help you, too, just like the countless others who have walked through her doors before you. Call (or text) 828-739-0345 or Click Here to schedule your appointment today and get started on your path to overall health and wellness.

How Acupuncture Helps Those Who Suffer With Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common chronic condition affecting roughly ten percent of the global population of women and girls or reproductive age. Ten percent may not sound like a lot, but that is around 190 million people who suffer with this painful condition. 

So, what exactly is Endometriosis? 

Endometriosis is a chronic health condition where cells similar to those that line the uterus, end up growing outside of it—usually in the pelvic area, ovaries, or fallopian tubes. While it rarely goes beyond these zones, the condition can be incredibly painful, and is often a real concern for many women.

In this article we will discuss how Acupuncture helps those who suffer with this often debilitating condition. 

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese technique where super-fine needles are inserted into specific body points. It's commonly used to treat issues like chronic pain and stress. The idea is to balance your body's energy, or "Qi," and many people find it both effective and surprisingly relaxing. 

Acupuncture for Emdometrisosis Pain Management

Studies have shown that those suffering with Endometriosis who received acupuncture during the time of the study reported less pain. One such study that took place in Austrailia, it found that those participating in the study who received acupuncture over an 8 week period, recorded a significant 48% drop in pain levels. 

Research from China has compared the efficacy of acupuncture with that of Western painkillers in treating endometriosis pain. Both methods were found to reduce pain, but interestingly, the acupuncture group reported slightly better outcomes. Moreover, a one-year follow-up showed a significantly lower recurrence rate among the acupuncture group, suggesting that acupuncture may target the root cause of the pain rather than just alleviating symptoms.

Acupuncture and Endometriosis Associated Infertitlity

Endometriosis can be a roadblock for women trying to conceive. Often, those with moderate to severe forms of the condition are advised to explore IVF to increase their odds of becoming pregnant. The catch-22 here is that the same hormonal medications used to ease endometriosis symptoms can also double as contraceptives, complicating the fertility journey even more.

Acupuncture offers a different avenue for women dealing with endometriosis who are trying to conceive. Unlike hormonal treatments, which can act as contraceptives, acupuncture aims to balance the body's energy or "Qi," and this can translate to a more regulated menstrual cycle and improved blood flow to the reproductive organs. Some studies suggest that acupuncture may even improve the effectiveness of IVF treatments and reduce pelvic pain often associated with endometriosis. So, it could be a useful complement to conventional fertility treatments, or even an alternative worth considering for those looking to improve their odds of conception without hormonal medications.

Here at Asheville Integrative Acupuncture, we're dedicated to expanding the options available to women dealing with endometriosis. We understand that conventional medicine often provides limited choices, especially when it comes to fertility challenges. That's why we offer acupuncture as a viable alternative or complement to traditional treatments. Our goal is to improve your chances of conception and enhance overall well-being by balancing your body's energy and focusing on holistic care.

Read More: Increase the Chance of Getting Pregnant with Fertility Acupuncture

Asheville Integrative Acupuncture

At Asheville Integrative Acupuncture we take Endometrisosis seriously. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in reducing the pain and inflammation associated with Endometriosis. Let Dr. Kinnunen take your pain away. 

Dr. Krystal Kinnunen, DAOM, L. AC, is certified through the National Certification Commission For Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Traditional Oriental Medicine. She has been practicing acupuncture for 12 years, and in addition to infertility, she treats various other issues, including maternity and postpartum care, chronic pain, mental health, digestive health, and women’s health. 

Call (or text) 828-739-0345 to contact us today to schedule your acupuncture appointment and get started on your path to wellness and fertility. You can also book an appointment directly or use the contact form to reach us.

Can Acupuncture Help Treat Long Covid?

As of Janurary 2023, 15% of all Americans report having symptoms of Long Covid, a condition that arises after the body battles a Covid-19 infection. Few know that acupuncture may be the answer in providing symptom relieving results. But what exactly are the symptoms of Long Covid and how can acupuncture help? Read on to learn more. 

What Exactly is Long Covid?

Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is a condition where individuals continue to experience symptoms and health issues well beyond the acute phase of a COVID-19 infection. These symptoms can persist for weeks or even months after the initial illness, and they can vary widely but often include fatigue, difficulty thinking or concentrating (often referred to as "brain fog"), shortness of breath, and a range of other physical and psychological symptoms. Long COVID can significantly impact a person's quality of life and may require ongoing medical care and support.

Symptoms of Long Covid

We're receiving numerous reports about people who are still not feeling well even after recovering from COVID-19. They're finding it hard to go back to their usual selves and are grappling with persistent symptoms that stick around long after they test negative for the virus. These symptoms often include feeling very tired, having aches in their joints, and facing problems with thinking clearly. Recent research is also supporting what doctors have believed for a while: acupuncture can be beneficial in reducing inflammation linked to long-lasting post-COVID symptoms. These symptoms can include:

• Ongoing fatigue, which can worsen with activity

• Sleep that doesn't leave you feeling refreshed, even after a full night's rest

• Cognitive and neurological issues, such as trouble with memory, difficulty concentrating, brain fog, and struggles with processing new information

• Muscle or joint pain

• Digestive symptoms, like nausea, diarrhea, or constipation

• Heightened sensitivity to light, smell, or sound

• Rapid or racing heartbeat

• Frequent headaches

Fatigue stands out as one of the most prevalent and noticeable symptoms. Typically, fatigue is a common response following a viral infection, and people tend to recover their energy levels relatively quickly. However, the fatigue associated with COVID-19 is distinct. It persists and can worsen even with minimal exertion, making even simple tasks or light exercise feel overwhelmingly taxing. In some cases, this fatigue is so debilitating that individuals may forgo basic activities like bathing or preparing meals due to the immense effort it requires.

COVID-19 may also give rise to other symptoms, such as insomnia, anxiety, or depression. These symptoms are not typically directly caused by the virus itself but are often a consequence of the prolonged uncertainty we are facing as we adapt to living with the virus in our lives.

Long Covid Vs. Acupuncture

Emerging evidence suggests that individuals experiencing the challenging and persistent symptoms of Long COVID may find relief through acupuncture treatments. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved, some studies have shown that acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice involving the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body, may help alleviate certain Long COVID symptoms. 

Acupuncture is known for its potential to promote relaxation, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being, which could be particularly beneficial for individuals grappling with the lingering effects of the virus. Nevertheless, it's crucial for individuals considering acupuncture as a part of their Long COVID management to consult with healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan that best suits their specific needs.

Effective Acupuncture Treatment for Post-Viral Syndromes

Fortunately, acupuncture boasts a rich historical legacy of effectively addressing these persistent syndromes. Master physicians from over 2,000 years ago documented methods for successfully treating epidemics that once swept through Asia. Central to this tradition was, and still is, the emphasis on maintaining overall health to prevent the onset of such illnesses or, if contracted, to reduce their duration and severity.

Contemporary research substantiates these age-old practices. Recent studies have highlighted the remarkable effectiveness of acupuncture in mitigating the cytokine storm associated with an overactive immune system. Additionally, acupuncture has demonstrated significant efficacy as a preventative measure.

Seeking Acupuncture in Asheville

The full extent of the long-term repercussions of COVID-19 remains unknown. As a consequence of this virus, some individuals have reported enduring post-viral symptoms for a period of up to six months. Others have yet to see the end of their long covid symptoms. 

At Asheville Intergrative Acupuncture, Dr. Krystal Kinnunen, DAOM, L. Ac, is certified through the National Certification Commission For Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Traditional Oriental Medicine. Praciting for over 12 years and helping countless through acupuncture. She specializes in fertility, maternity and post-partum care with clinical interests in treating pain, women’s health, mental and digestive health.

If you’re suffering from long covid and are ready to find relief through acupunture than Click here to contact us today to schedule an appointment today.  

Acupuncture: An Effective Tool for Alleviating COVID-19 Stress

The past three years have been challenging due to the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting millions of lives in various ways. In search of peace and relief from persistent stress and discomfort, many are turning to acupuncture, an ancient practice with a history that spans thousands of years.

The Pandemic's Impact on Mental Health

"The pandemic has impacted everyone in one way or another; it has exacerbated the pre-existing mental health crisis in the United States," states Dr. Caren Campbell, a dermatologist based in San Francisco. According to Dr. Campbell, any modality that can effectively reduce stress is a welcome addition to the toolbox for combating the mental health fallout from the pandemic.

Acupuncture as a Stress-Reduction Technique

Dr. Campbell strongly advocates acupuncture, praising it as an essential tool for stress and pain management. Gudrun Snyder, DAc, founder of Moon Rabbit Acupuncture in Chicago, references studies demonstrating acupuncture's efficacy in moderating "cytokine storms" — an inflammatory response to COVID-19 resulting in tissue and organ damage.

Scientific Backing

Recent studies from prestigious institutions like Harvard and Oxford Universities reveal that acupuncture can suppress inflammation, enhance immunity, and regulate nervous system functions. "The body shifts into a state of relaxation during acupuncture treatment," explains Tsao-Lin Moy, a certified acupuncture therapist and licensed Chinese herbal medicine practitioner. This relaxation is essential for the body's inherent healing abilities.

The Mechanism Behind Acupuncture's Effects

Jenna Gill, a licensed acupuncture therapist, elaborates on how acupuncture helps the body shift to the parasympathetic nervous system mode, which facilitates reduced heart and breathing rates, lower blood pressure, and improved digestion. This state contrasts significantly with the heightened stress levels many have been facing during the pandemic. Gill attributes the increased demand for acupuncture services to its safety, affordability, and effectiveness in treating stress-related symptoms like insomnia and anxiety.

A Holistic Approach to Healing

Gill adds that Western medicine primarily focuses on symptom masking through medications. In contrast, acupuncture aims to discover and treat the root causes of discomfort and illness. "Our bodies are designed to heal themselves, but stress disrupts this natural flow of energy," says Gill. She advocates combining Eastern and Western approaches for a more holistic healthcare strategy.

Additional Strategies for Managing Stress

While acupuncture offers a promising route to stress management, other avenues should be considered. According to Dr. Campbell, exercise, journaling, and connecting with a support system are also valuable.

See also: Everything You Need and Want to Know About General Acupuncture.

The Power of Positivity

Tsao-Lin Moy highlights the role of mindset in overall health, stating that positive individuals tend to be healthier. Higher levels of endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin are found in optimistic individuals, contributing to enhanced well-being.

A Balanced Approach

The age-old practice of acupuncture has regained attention in these trying times as a powerful stress-reducing tool. Medical professionals like Gudrun Snyder advocate for a balanced approach, integrating Eastern and Western medical practices. 

With the myriad challenges of the pandemic, such integrative approaches may provide the best path forward for overall well-being.

We are here to provide effective and patient-centered care. Click here to book your appointment.

Seed Cycling for Hormonal Balance

Have you heard of seed cycling?

Seed cycling is an excellent wellness practice for supporting hormonal balance in women. The practice consists of eating specific seeds during the two main phases of your menstrual cycle (follicular and luteal) to help promote the healthy balance of estrogen and progesterone levels. This method of supporting your hormones is gentle and completely natural. It proves to be very effective, especially when used alongside other hormone support like acupuncture.

Seed cycling can be used at any stage of a woman’s life and cycle.

Women’s hormones are heavily influenced by diet, exercise, sleep, stress levels, and environmental toxins. Our hormones can quickly be thrown out of balance by any one of these factors. Whenever our hormones are imbalanced, it can lead to an array of health issues such as: hormonal acne, irregular cycle, heavier periods, PCOS, infertility, and thyroid issues. These issues, along with others, can overall effect our daily quality of life.

How Does the Cycling Process Work?

From Day 1 to Day 15 (first day of menstruation - ovulation), we need more estrogen in order to build up our endometrium. This phase in our cycles is the Follicular Phase. When using seeds like flaxseed and pumpkin seed, we can naturally increase the estrogen levels in our body.

From Day 15 to Day 30, or the second part of the cycle (the luteal phase), progesterone begins to release. This sex hormone helps to thicken the uterine lining and prepare for implantation. Sesame seeds contain high levels of zinc and sunflower seeds contain Vitamin E, both stimulating progesterone production.

The idea is that by adding these specific seeds into your daily diet throughout your cycle, you will naturally balance the hormones estrogen and progesterone in your body. It is recommended that you take one tablespoon of each seed during both halves of your cycle (flaxseed and pumpkin seed in the first 15 days and then sesame and sunflower in the last 15 days).

Ideas for integrating seeds into your daily diet ~

• Sprinkle seeds on salads, oatmeal, smoothie bowls

• Make a homemade granola, energy bar, or cookie/bread

• Blend up homemade seed butter and spread onto toast - add bananas, honey, and cinnamon for an extra yummy treat

• Throw them into dinners, for easiest incorporation

Try This RECIPE:
Estrogen-boosting crackers

This recipe is great for menstruating women in the first part of the cycle, as well as women going through perimenopause and menopause who would benefit from an estrogen boost. This recipe is using an oven. If you have a dehydrator, feel free to use it and set it to 115F for 8 hours.

Time to prepare: 20 minutes
Time to soak: 12 hours
Time to bake: 6 hours
Serves: 20 servings
Equipment: thermometer, parchment paper and 18’ x 13’ baking tray

Ingredients:
1 cup almonds
1 cup flaxseed
1 cup pumpkin seeds
1 cup dried apples, roughly chopped
1 cup roasted coconut flakes
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon sea salt

How to Make:

1. Soak almonds for 12 hours.

2. Soak flaxseed and pumpkin seeds in 3 cups of water for 2 hours.

3. Preheat the oven to 150F or the lowest temperature your oven allows. The trick to keeping the temperature low (ideally in the range of 120 to 150F) and to leave the oven door ajar. This will prevent the crackers from burning and will create air circulation to dry the crackers.

4. Strain all the excess water from the almonds and combine with all the remaining ingredients. Toss to mix them well.

5. Line the baking tray with parchment paper and spread the mixture evenly.

6. Bake for 6 hours or until fully dried. It’s recommended to check your crackers regularly using the thermometer to be sure they are getting dried but not burned. If the oven gets too hot, just open the oven door slightly wider. I use a metal tool (like a can opener) to keep the oven door ajar. The second batch will be easier to make as you will know how to keep the oven temperature in the 120-150F range.

These crackers store well for two weeks in an air-tight container.

How Acupuncture Works For Fertility

Did you know that about twenty-five percent of couples turn to acupuncture for a fertility boost, whether they're trying to conceive naturally or using medical infertility treatments like IVF?

Curious about how acupuncture enhances fertility? This article breaks down the research on how this ancient practice can positively impact fertility and even up the odds for IVF success.

What Is Acupuncture and How It Works

Acupuncture is an alternative therapy where slim, sanitized needles are popped into specific points on your body. The goal? To either treat or tone down various health issues, or just make you feel more balanced and well.

Acupuncture originated in China around 4000 BC when Traditional Chinese Medicine doctors believed that acupuncture works by regulating the flow of ‘Qi’ (often translated as a ‘vital force’ or ‘energy’). But it’s only recently, with advancements in science, that we started to understand how this ancient healing tradition works from a science perspective. 

When acupuncture needles stimulate specific acupuncture points, this causes the release of chemicals called neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters then travel via the central nervous system to the brain, where they either activate or inhibit other nerve signals. It’s these neurotransmitters that regulate the release of hormones and control different aspects of health. 

Here we will dive deeper into how acupuncture could potentially give your fertility a boost.

• It Increases Blood Flow and Improves Egg Quality: Ovarian follicles and their eggs grow in response to hormones and nutrients delivered via the ovarian blood supply. Efficient blood flow is associated with higher quality eggs. Several research studies have found that one of the benefits of acupuncture is that it increases blood flow to the uterus and ovaries by relaxing the walls of blood vessels.

• It Improves Sperm Quantity and Quality: Believe it or not, up to 40% of infertility struggles are linked, at least partially, to male fertility issues. Here's the kicker: Even advanced methods like IVF or ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) can't solve all male fertility problems. Why? Because these treatments focus more on choosing the "best-looking" sperm to fertilize the egg rather than improving the overall quality of the sperm.

  
  Now, here's where acupuncture comes into play. Initial research has thrown up some intriguing results. Studies suggest that acupuncture can have a positive impact on various aspects of sperm health, including concentration, motility, vitality, and overall count. And that's not all: some researchers believe acupuncture might even help regulate testosterone levels.

• It Helps With Embryo Implantation: The conversation around acupuncture and fertility is getting more interesting, especially with increasing evidence supporting its effectiveness. Take embryo implantation rates, for instance. Recent research suggests that acupuncture could be a game-changer here.

• It Helps Reduce Stress and Anxiety: Research has shown that discovering an infertility diagnosis is equal to the level of emotional suffering one feels with a cancer diagnosis. Unfortunatley, infertility patients who suffer from high levels of stress may find it even harder to concieve. Stress can affect reproductive hormones, reduce sperm quantity and quality, increase risk of miscarrages and cause the menstrual cycle to be shorter, shorterning the luteal phase, reducing the length of time for successful embryonic implantation. 

Making Time for Fertility Acupuncture

While acupuncture has been shown to be a safe and effective complementary treatment to enhance fertility and improve IVF success rates, it's important to understand that it's not a magic bullet or a quick fix.

Recent research suggests that the most significant benefits come from a more comprehensive approach, applying acupuncture throughout the entire IVF process, rather than just around the time of embryo transfer. One study by Qian et al. in 2017 indicated that the IVF pregnancy rate improved more notably when acupuncture was incorporated at all stages of the treatment.

If you're considering acupuncture to complement your fertility journey, you might need to start treatments a few months ahead of any medical infertility procedures. In more complex cases, an even earlier start might be advisable. Why? Because the ovarian follicles and the eggs inside them take over a year to mature, and sperm production takes about three months.

So, if you're considering this route, plan on continuing acupuncture treatments not just during the IVF process but possibly into early pregnancy as well. Being consistent and patient with your acupuncture regimen could provide the best chance for it to effectively complement your fertility treatments.

Fertility Acupuncture Specialists

While a solid foundation in Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture can offer benefits for many seeking to address fertility issues, the complexity of reproductive health often requires more specialized expertise.

If you're facing challenges with fertility or are undergoing IVF treatments, it's crucial to consult an acupuncturist who not only has a deep understanding of acupuncture but also possesses specialized knowledge in reproductive medicine and infertility. These practitioners are more equipped to address the nuances and complexities that often accompany fertility issues.

By choosing an acupuncturist with a robust background in this specialized area, you'll be positioning yourself for the best possible outcomes, whether you're looking to conceive naturally or through assisted reproductive technologies like IVF.

Asheville Intergrative Acupuncture 

If you suffer from complications trying to get pregnant, than fertility acupuncture may be the answer you need to help you be successful. Fertility Acupuncture is shown to be effective in reducing anxiety and stress, improving egg and sperm quality, bringing more blood flow to the reproductive organs, assisting with successful embryonic implantation and even balancing the body’s hormone levels. 

Dr. Krystal Kinnunen, DAOM, L. AC, is certified through the National Certification Commission For Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and Traditional Oriental Medicine. She has been practicing acupuncture for 12 years, and in addition to infertility, she treats various other issues, including maternity and postpartum care, chronic pain, mental health, digestive health, and women’s health. 

Call (or text) 828-739-0345 to contact us today to schedule your acupuncture appointment and get started on your path to wellness and fertility. You can also book an appointment directly or use the contact form to reach us.