* 30-Second Pumpkin Pudding
* Vitamin D Inhibits Colds and Flu
* Seasonal Allergy Elimination: Save $10

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This low-fat, filling snack provides Vitamin A, protein and fiber

Combine a 6-ounce container of nonfat vanilla yogurt with ½ cup canned 100% pure pumpkin puree and a dash of cinnamon. A delicious non-dairy alternative is to use coconut-milk yogurt. The pumpkin bulks up the yogurt—already a protein-rich, nutrient-packed food—and adds a dose of fiber. This winning combo of protein and fiber expands in your stomach, keeping you full long after you finish, so you're not looking for more munchies an hour later.  (From registered dietician Joy Bauer.)

Vitamin D Inhibits Colds and Flu
Research supports supplementing with vitamin D

As daylight hours grow colder and shorter, incidences of the common cold, flu, and respiratory infections spike upwards. Scientists have identified reduced vitamin D levels in winter months as a prime suspect for this increase in infectious disease cases. Vitamin D has been shown to reduce the incidence of respiratory infections. Some of the studies supporting this:

• Dutch researchers found that children with the least sun exposure (which the body requires to synthesize its own vitamin D) are twice as likely to develop a cough and three times more likely to develop a runny nose compared with children with the most sun exposure.
• When Russian athletes were given access to a sun lamp to stimulate vitamin D synthesis in the body, there were 50% fewer respiratory infections and 300% fewer days of absence.
• Children with the lowest vitamin D serum levels are 11 times more likely to develop respiratory infection. When 60,000 IU per week of vitamin D was administered (for six weeks) to children with frequent respiratory infections, the result was a complete disappearance of such infections in the following six months.
• In a controlled trial of African women, a low dose (800 IU a day) of vitamin D resulted in a 3-fold reduction in cold and flu symptoms compared to those given placebo.
• Recent studies confirm that vitamin D dramatically increases activity of antimicrobial peptides in immune cells. (Antimicrobial peptides protect against bacterial, fungal and viral infections.)

Supplementing with vitamin D in pill or liquid form is an easy way to bolster your immune system. Many great products are available at health food stores such as Vitamin Cottage and Whole Foods. As vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, supplements are best taken with a meal that contains some fat or in an oil (such as fish oil) supplement form.

Seasonal Allergy Elimination
The winter months are the best time to clear allergies

Using the Allergy Elimination method I've seen people clear pollen allergies literally overnight. The method requires a 24-hour avoidance period, however, that can be quite difficult during the spring, summer and fall, when pollens are airborne. Winter is the best time to clear seasonal allergies. I can determine which trees, grasses and weeds you are allergic to, and then clear one class of allergens per treatment. If you are only sensitive to one type of allergen, usually only one treatment is necessary. Save $10 on Seasonal Allergy Elimination treatments through February 15th.

Check my availability and request an appointment here.  Have questions? Ask here.

Leave a medium spaghetti squash whole, pierce the shell with a fork a few times and bake at 400 degrees F until tender (about 50-60 minutes). After the squash has cooled enough to handle it safely, cut it open lengthwise, scoop out the seeds and remove the strands with a fork.

In a large bowl combine the squash strands with 2 cups chopped broccoli florets, steamed, and 1 cup diced red bell pepper. Mix in 1 cup low-fat sour cream, 1/4 cup skim milk, 1 tablespoon curry powder and 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese, stirring well to coat. Pour into a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish and top with seasoned whole wheat bread crumbs or prepared whole grain stuffing (approximately 2 cups). Bake at 400 degrees for 30 minutes.

My version: I used steamed chopped asparagus instead of broccoli, and coconut milk yogurt instead of sour cream (no cholesterol). I also found you don't really need milk, but you can use a little almond or rice milk instead of cow's milk. Mixing the spices in with the yogurt or sour cream before you add it to the vegetables makes it mix a lot easier. Instead of stirring in the cheese, I sprinkle it over the entire dish before putting on the stuffing. (Cheese is optional.) I prepare the stuffing using only hot water instead of butter or oil and it tastes just as yummy. If after 30 minutes the stuffing isn't as crispy as you'd like, broil on low for a few minutes. (Keep close watch on it, though, because it can burn quickly!)

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Hello! With more than 17 inches of snow in Boulder last week it sure seemed more like winter than fall. I want to share an easy lunch idea to help keep you healthy this season. The really big news is that Acupuncture Boulder Inc. has moved to a larger suite in a new location. To celebrate I'm offering limited-time moving specials. I look forward to seeing you in my new office! Enjoy this varied season and don't hesitate to contact me with any of your health questions or concerns.

If you received this newsletter as a forward, you can subscribe here. Please add robin at acupunctureboulder dot com to your address book to make sure you can see all pictures and to avoid issues being delivered to your bulk or junk folder. If you'd rather receive this letter through your RSS reader, you can subscribe to my blog.

  Become a Fan of Acupuncture Boulder on Facebook


Robin L. Schiesser, L.Ac . | www.acupunctureboulder.com | 720-320-1075

In this issue

• Easy Lunch Idea
• Acupuncture Boulder's New Home
• Moving Specials

Easy Lunch Idea
Sweet potatoes and brown rice are delicious and nutritious.

Being as busy as we are it can be a challenge to get a good, healthy lunch in every day. Fast food is fast, but not always nutritious food. Here's a lunch you can prepare at home and take to the office for good energy all afternoon.

   SWEET POTATO AND BROWN RICE:
Cook a pot of brown rice on the weekend and store in the refrigerator to use for a few meals during the week.
Wash a medium or large sweet potato or yam and leave the skin on. Poke with a fork a few times and bake at 350 degrees for about 30 - 45 minutes. (If you have a toaster oven, you can put it in and set the timer while you're getting ready in the morning. It will be done before you leave for work.) In a tupperware or pyrex container, make a bed of brown rice shake on several drops of low-sodium tamari sauce (wheat-free soy sauce--I stay away from non-fermented and genetically modified soy, so a little organic tamari is just fine). Slice the sweet potato and place it on top of the rice. Shake on your preferred spice(s). I like a little cumin, ground ginger and sea salt. You can vary this lunch with any leftovers you may have--veggies, greens such as chard or kale, chicken or turkey, etc.  If there's no meat in it, you can keep the container at room temperature and it will be ready for you to eat at lunchtime, no heating required.


One baked sweet potato (3 1/2 ounce serving) provides over 8,800 IU of vitamin A or about twice the recommended daily allowance, yet it contains only 141 calories. It provides 42 percent of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for vitamin C, 6 percent of the RDA for calcium, 10 percent of the RDA for iron, and 8 percent of the RDA for thiamine for healthy adults. It is low in sodium and is a good source of fiber and other important vitamins and minerals. A complex carbohydrate food source, it provides beta carotene which may be a factor in reducing the risk of certain cancers. For the most food value, choose sweet potatoes of a deep orange color.

Brown rice provides Protein, Vitamin E, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Potassium, Magnesium, Iron and over dozen other nutrients as well as three times the dietary fiber contained in white rice. I find that short-grain brown rice has a nice, nutty flavor that complements greens, beans and so many other foods.

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Acupuncture Boulder's New Home
Two treatment rooms for more appointment availability!


Acupuncture Boulder has been growing steadily, so it was time to move to a larger suite. Now I have two treatment rooms and can offer more appointment times to better serve you. My new office is on the east side of Boulder near the Humane Society and the Valmont Post Office. My phone number, email and website remain the same.

Acupuncture Boulder Inc.
Robin L. Schiesser, Lic. Ac., Dipl. OM
5757 Central Ave., Suite 212
Boulder, CO 80301
(720) 320-1075

Central Avenue is east of 55th Street south of Pearl Street.

We are on the second floor, in Suite 212. There is a ramp in front of the building and an elevator for wheelchair access.

View Larger Map

Directions from Boulder:

Take Valmont east until it turns to the right and becomes 55th. Stay in the center lane and cross Pearl.
(Or take Pearl to 55th Street and turn right.)

Turn left at the first traffic light, Flatiron Parkway. After passing by two lefts into parking lots for buildings on Flatiron Parkway, turn left at the first street, Central Avenue. Just as Central Avenue curves to the right, 5757 is the stone and glass building on the left with tall pines in front.

From Longmont:

Take Diagonal Highway south to Foothills Parkway. Exit left on either Valmont or Pearl and follow directions above.

From Denver/Cities South:

Take 36 West to Foothills Parkway North. Exit right on Pearl and follow Boulder directions, top.

Alternate Routes:

Baseline and Arapahoe cross 55th from east and west. If you are coming from Boulder, turn left onto 55th. If you are coming from Louisville or Lafayette, turn right on 55th. Go North to Central Avenue and turn right. Central Avenue curves to the left and then turns to the left after Flatiron Parkway. After the turn go several buildings until you see 5757 on your right, just before Central turns to the left once again. 55th does cross the railroad tracks, so occasionally you may get stopped for a train. Foothills Parkway avoids the tracks.

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Moving Specials
Limited-time savings on treatments at the new location.

Returning Patients - Two visits for just $99 (regularly $140).

New Patients - 90 minute initial visit including health history review, exam, diagnosis and acupuncture treatment just $99 (regularly $150).

Thank you for reading and for sharing this with others. Remember to visit acupunctureboulder.com for new additions and changes, to request an appointment, or to read past issues of Acupuncture Boulder News!

Warmest Regards,
Robin

www.acupunctureboulder.com

Hello! Have you been enjoying all the amazing fruits and vegetables available this time of year? Mango is one of my favorites this summer, and in this issue I'm sharing a quick recipe for coconut mango rice. I'm also bringing you info about using your HSA or Flexible Spending Account for acupuncture, as well as a video about children and acupuncture. Have a spectacular summer, and don't hesitate to contact me with any of your health questions or concerns.

If you received this newsletter as a forward, you can subscribe here. Please add robin at acupunctureboulder dot com to your address book to avoid issues being delivered to your bulk or junk folder. If you'd rather receive this letter through your RSS reader, you can subscribe to my blog. Become a Fan of Acupuncture Boulder on Facebook


Robin L. Schiesser, L.Ac . | www.acupunctureboulder.com | 720-320-1075

In this issue

• Recipe: Coconut Mango Rice
• Using Health Savings and Flexible Medical Spending Accounts for Acupuncture
• Video: Kids Turn to Acupuncture for Pain Relief

Recipe: Coconut Mango Rice
Nutrient-rich mangoes sweeten this delicious side dish.

Ripe mangoes contain vitamin A, C and B6, potassium and copper. They are also high in fiber and low in fat. Beta-carotene, the form of Vitamin A found in mangoes, may help slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer, improve lung function, and reduce complications of diabetes. For a lower-fat option, use the Lite coconut milk—it's just as delicious!


* 5 cups cooked short-grain brown rice
* 1 can of coconut milk (regular or lite)
* 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
* 1 large red bell pepper, finely diced
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 - 2 tablespoons agave nectar or other sweetener
* 2 limes (optional)
* 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)


1. In a large saucepan simmer coconut milk, agave nectar and salt over moderate heat for a minute or two.

2. Add the bell pepper and simmer briefly until pepper just starts to soften a bit.

3. Stir in the rice and heat until warmed through, covering if needed to make sure the moisture doesn't all cook off.

4. Stir in the mango. (If the mango was refrigerated, cook over low heat until just warm.) Taste and season as desired.

Serving suggestion: Add a squeeze of fresh lime and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro just before eating for a fresh flavor sensation!

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Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
Save on taxes and get the care you want!

A Flexible Spending Account allows an employee to set aside a portion of earnings to pay for qualified medical expenses. Money deducted from an employee's pay into an FSA is not subject to payroll taxes, resulting in a substantial tax savings. An FSA may be utilized by paper claims or an FSA debit card also known as a Flexcard.

A Health Savings Account is a savings account that enables you to pay for current health expenses and save for future qualified medical and retiree health expenses on a tax-free basis. You must be covered by a High Deductible Health Plan to be able to take advantage of HSAs. The deductible must be at least $1,100 (self-only coverage) or $2,200 (family coverage). An HDHP generally costs less than what traditional health care coverage costs, so the money that you save on insurance can therefore be put into the Health Savings Account. Both accounts allow you a wider choice in how to spend your healthcare dollars.

Acupuncture is a qualified medical expense under IRS HSA guidelines and under most FSA guidelines. To be an expense for medical care, the expense has to be primarily for the prevention or alleviation of a physical or mental defect or illness. In my practice I am able to provide receipts with all of the appropriate diagnosis and treatment codes to meet these requirements. For your convenience I am also equipped to accept HSA and FSA credit/debit cards. If you have questions about your eligibility for these accounts, contact your human resources department and/or your insurance professional (I can refer you to one, if needed).

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Video: Children and Acupuncture
Tiny needles equal big pain relief for children.

I treat infants and children for conditions ranging from ear aches/infections and low immunity to allergies and eczema. Little ones respond quite well to just acupressure, pediatric tui na (specialized massage) and herbs, so needles are often not necessary. However, for older children with pain—such as the one shown in this video—fine needles can work wonders!

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Thank you for reading and for sharing this with others. Remember to visit acupunctureboulder.com for new additions and changes, to request an appointment, or to read past issues of Acupuncture Boulder News!

Warmest Regards,
Robin

www.acupunctureboulder.com

Robin L. Schiesser, L.Ac.
909 14th St, Suite 105
Boulder, CO 80302
(720) 320-1075

Acupuncture Becoming More Mainstream in Western Medicine

December 26, 2008
Dear Mayo Clinic:
What do you think of acupuncture as a treatment for various ailments? How does it work?

Answer:
Acupuncture, which has been used and studied throughout the world for more than 4,000 years, can be utilized to rebalance the flow of energy (Qi) in the body and effectively treat many conditions. At Mayo Clinic, acupuncture has been used successfully for pain management, postoperative nausea, anxiety relief, drug addiction, insomnia and headaches, to name a few.

Acupuncture is administered by inserting up to a dozen or more tiny needles into very precise locations (points) determined by symptoms. The needle insertion points are based on a series of points along meridians or channels that interconnect throughout the body, each with a different function. There are twelve principle meridians within the body, containing almost 400 acupuncture points.

Patients rarely have any discomfort with needle insertion. Needles remain in place for 15 to 45 minutes. During a treatment, the acupuncturist may gently stimulate the needles manually, apply heat with a ceramic lamp at a safe distance, or attach low-frequency electrical stimulation. The goal is to improve energy flow in the body, thus relieving pain and other symptoms, allowing people to sleep better and improve their quality of life.

For some conditions, one treatment provides rapid relief. Other situations, such as chronic pain management, may require a series of treatments. In some cases, symptom relief is not always immediate and may require a period of two to three days for the positive effects to be noted. This is in part related to delayed secretion of endorphins.

While some patients and providers remain skeptical of its therapeutic value, acupuncture is becoming more mainstream in Western medicine as a stand-alone treatment or as one element of a comprehensive treatment plan.

As a practicing neurosurgeon, I can cite several examples of acupuncture's beneficial effects. These stories from our patients illustrate the scope of acupuncture's benefits:

Post-surgery nausea: Nausea and vomiting after surgery can be a serious side effect of anesthesia for some patients. It can slow recovery and require some patients to remain in the hospital for weeks on IV fluids. Potential complications of extended bed rest include increased risk of pneumonia and blood clots. One acupuncture treatment can abate the nausea, as shown in this case:

A colleague of mine needed neck surgery and had a lifelong history of postoperative nausea that resulted in prolonged hospital stays. We performed acupuncture within an hour of surgery. At that point, she was already developing nausea. Following one acupuncture treatment, she didn't need anti-nausea medication, slept well and sailed through the rest of her recovery. She and her husband considered the benefit dramatic. We also have seen dramatic results in liver and heart transplant patients with relief of nausea and quicker recovery.

Tennis and golf elbow (epicondylitis): Another patient, who is an avid tennis player, believed he was permanently sidelined because of elbow pain. Aggressive physical therapy and steroid injections hadn't helped. With one acupuncture session, his pain was eliminated, and several days later he played in a doubles match — and won. Studies have shown that, for this type of pain, acupuncture can be more effective than steroid injections or physical therapy alone.

Cancer recovery: Another patient had difficulty bouncing back after surgery — an esophagus resection to treat cancer. Like many patients who undergo this procedure, he had problems with eating, lost weight and wasn't able to work or exercise. After he had lost almost 50 pounds and nothing else helped, he tried a series of acupuncture treatments. He says the acupuncture gave him his life back. He has returned to work and more normal activities, has gained needed weight, and works out regularly with a trainer.

Granted, these are anecdotes. Not everyone will experience similar results, nor might everyone even be a candidate for acupuncture. Acupuncture has an excellent safety profile, with negligible risk of infection or bleeding. It can safely be performed on patients who are on blood thinners, unlike many other pain management modalities. Patients should seek treatment by physicians who have received extensive training in the art and science of acupuncture.

Overall, an ever-growing body of research confirms the benefits of acupuncture. One treatment can cost from $100 to $200, and most insurance companies do not cover acupuncture. Coverage is slowly becoming more common, however, as insurers see that acupuncture can help reduce health care costs when fewer pain medications are needed and patients can be discharged more quickly from the hospital.

— Ronald Reimer, M.D., Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Fla.

Hello! Happy New Year! I've been blessed to be so busy the past few months that this newsletter has by necessity become a quarterly. I moved my office at the beginning of December, and you can check out my new location here. It is closer to CU, where I am now on staff two days per week (more info on that here). What I'm most excited to share with you is the training I've received that has enabled me to eliminate environmental and food allergies. I'm offering a limited-time special rate so you can experience it for yourself. After the holidays many are wisely resolving to improve their diet. I'm including an easy recipe for kale and white bean stew to help you do just that. The Year of the Ox begins January 26th; little Milo (pictured at left) and I wish you vibrant health and happiness in the New Year and always!

If you received this newsletter as a forward and would like to subscribe, you can subscribe here. Please add robin at acupunctureboulder dot com to your address book to avoid issues being delivered to your bulk or junk folder. If you'd rather receive this letter through your RSS reader, you can now subscribe to my blog. Thank you for reading!
Robin L. Schiesser, L.Ac . | www.acupunctureboulder.com | 720-320-1075

In this issue

• Eliminating Allergies Easily and Completely
• Recipe: Kale and White Bean Stew
• Persistence Pays Off in the Year of the Ox

Say Goodbye to Allergies for Good!
Technique uses acupressure to clear allergies easily and completely


Last Fall I traveled to Arizona to complete a 3-day Allergy Elimination training. During the training I was cleared for my longtime sensitivity to wheat. Now when I eat something with wheat in it I no longer experience the uncomfortable bloating and fatigue I did previously. It's great! Allergy Elimination is an acu-stimulation treatment that provides permanent relief from an allergic reaction or sensitivity. In its simplest form Allergy Elimination consists of stimulating acupuncture points on the body while the patient holds the allergen in their hand. The word acu-stimulation is used here because it is not absolutely necessary to use needles for Allergy Elimination to work. The practitioner uses Applied Kinesiology, also known as muscle testing, to determine what the patient is allergic to and whether or not the patient has successfully cleared for a particular allergen.

The technique is permanent in most cases, meaning that the allergen will remain cleared after treatment. However, only one allergen or class of allergens can be cleared at one time. For example, an allergy to dairy products may be cleared in one treatment, but not an allergy to dairy and to wheat. In the hands of a skilled practitioner an allergen can be cleared successfully at least 95% of the time. For severe allergies and sensitivities multiple clearings may be necessary to completely eliminate all reactivity.

Another aspect of Allergy Elimination is that the patient needs to avoid the allergen after the clearing for up to 25 hours. This gives the body a chance to assimilate the deprogramming successfully. Some allergens can be difficult to avoid, but many of these allergies are still successfully cleared.

This technique is effective for:

* food allergies and sensitivities (including lactose intolerance)
* pollen (trees, flowers, weeds and bushes)
* pet dander
* environmental allergies and sensitivities such as petroleum

Book an appointment for an Allergy Elimination by Friday, February 13th and receive $10 off the usual rate of $70.

Feel free to send me an email if you have any questions.

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Recipe: Kale and White Bean Stew
An easy way to get protein, iron, calcium, magnesium and fiber

This recipe, which was found on delish.com's recipe finder, is simple and tasty. You can make a double batch at the beginning of the week to have on hand for quick and healthy lunches and dinners, or freeze the extra so you don't get sick of it. Its combination of protein, fiber and nutrients will give your resolution to eat better a big boost.

(My boyfriend Rob has been making big pots of the black bean soup from October's newsletter and has been adding chopped carrots. We never seem to have scallions or parsley on hand, so we've been substituting cilantro for garnish. It's been great!)

* 1 tablespoons cooking oil
* 2 onions, chopped
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 pound kale (about 1 1/2 quarts), tough stems removed, leaves washed well and thinly cut
* 3 1/3 cups (two 15-ounce cans) diced tomatoes with their juice
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper
* 4 cups (two 19-ounce cans) drained and rinsed cannellini (or Northern white or white navy) beans
* Additional water, vegetable broth or chicken broth as desired
* Additional seasonings such as oregano, cumin, etc., as desired

1. In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over moderate heat. Stir in the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften, about 3 minutes.

2. Add the garlic and kale to the pan and cook, stirring, until the kale wilts, about 2 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes, salt, pepper and any other desired seasonings; bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, until the kale is tender, about 15 minutes.

3. Stir the beans into the stew and cook until warmed through, about 5 minutes. If you like, mash some of the beans with a fork to thicken the sauce. If you prefer more of a soup than a stew, add some water or broth.

Note: Shred kale leaves as fine as possible when making quick soups and stews so that each bite will include tender greens instead of a chewy mouthful.

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Chinese New Year 2009: Year of the Ox
Celebrate the New Year January 26th

Those born in the year of the Ox (1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009) are thought to be methodical, dependable, hardworking, patient and ethical. Once Oxen set a goal, they rarely relent until the objective is attained, and they will not take action without carefully planning every detail in advance. Ox can make a dependable friend or mate. However, don't be offended if they bluntly point out your flaws, it is merely their way of expressing their concern for you.

According to Taoist astrology, the year of the Ox is time for hard work. Success is attained through diligent hard work and conscientious effort. Begin by putting your affairs in order, especially your home. Tried and true methods will most likely yield results. Wild, new concepts may not be well received (they are better saved for the following Tiger year). Those who are determined and disciplined in their efforts will be rewarded with a bountiful harvest!

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Thank you for reading and for sharing this with others. Remember to visit acupunctureboulder.com for new additions and changes, to request an appointment, or to read past issues of Acupuncture Boulder News!

Warmest Regards,
Robin

www.acupunctureboulder.com

Robin L. Schiesser, L.Ac.
909 14th St, Suite 105
Boulder, CO 80302
(720) 320-1075

Hello! This month I'm excited to tell you about Pediatric Oriental Medicine, as I recently completed additional training in this field. In this issue is also an effective, natural remedy for childhood ear infections, recipes for spaghetti squash, news about acupuncture at CU Boulder and a notice about the 9Health Fair this weekend. If you missed her free hike last month, take advantage of fitness trainer Sarah Eley's Q&A Fitness Walk November 5th. If you received this newsletter as a forward and would like to subscribe, you can subscribe here. Please add robin at acupunctureboulder dot com to your address book to avoid issues being delivered to your bulk or junk folder. For those entering the blogosphere, you can now subscribe to my blog. Thank you for reading!
Robin L. Schiesser, L.Ac . | www.acupunctureboulder.com | 720-320-1075

In this issue

• Pediatric Oriental Medicine Benefits Babies and Children
• Holistic Relief for Childhood Ear Infections
• Spaghetti Squash: A nutritious, seasonal taste treat
• Robin Joins the Staff at CU's Wardenburg Health Center
• Community Event: 9Health Fair October 17th-19th
• Free Event: Q&A walk with trainer Sarah Eley

Pediatric Oriental Medicine Benefits Babies and Children

Robin is a Bee Well Kidz-certified practitioner

Last month I had the privilege of completing a certification course in Los Angeles with Naomi Richman, L.Ac., the founder of a ground-breaking pediatric clinic Bee Well Kidz. Naomi, who is a member of the Oriental Medicine Advisory Board for the Holistic Pediatric Association, shared her extensive knowledge and experience treating infants and children using Pediatric Oriental Medicine, and provided ample opportunity for us to deepen our skills with patients from her clinic.

Pediatric Oriental Medicine (POM) is based on the same theories as those used to treat adults, but the diagnostic methods and treatment techniques are modified according to the physiology of children. For thousands of years POM has been developed and refined with the knowledge that children's bodily systems are not yet fully developed. Treatment techniques include Herbal Medicine, Chinese Pediatric Massage (CPM), Chinese Dietary Therapy and Nutritional Counseling, Acupuncture, Heat Therapy, and Cupping.

Acupuncture is used sparingly in babies and young children. There is no needle retention; instead, very tiny needles are inserted and immediately removed. Most of the time young patients aren't even aware of the fact that they have experienced acupuncture, except that they feel better!

More often, Chinese Pediatric Massage, also called Pediatric Tuina, is enough to address many pediatric conditions. This ancient approach to health maintenance and recovery treats specific points and areas of the body particular to children's physiology that connect to internal bodily functions. Commonly used throughout Asia, these gentle massage techniques effectively treat digestive problems, colic, ear aches and infections, fever, coughs, sleep disorders and constipation as well as strengthening overall immunity. Parents can also learn CPM techniques specific to their child's illness so that they can continue the treatment themselves at home.

Nutritional guidance and gentle herbal medicines are also used to heal and strengthen children's bodily systems, such as the digestive and respiratory systems. Because children's systems react easily to stimuli, a small dosage is usually sufficient to achieve desired results. Sweet tasting glycerin-based formulas make administration hassle-free.

Keep Acupuncture Boulder in mind when those sniffles and sneezes start this fall. Better yet, bring the little ones in for an immune-boosting session and learn techniques to help bolster your child's resistance during cold and flu season. Read below about ear infections and a natural treatment for alleviating them.

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Holistic Relief for Childhood Ear Infections

This simple home remedy really works to alleviate ear aches and infections

Otitis media (ear infection) is often difficult to detect because most children affected by this disorder do not yet have sufficient speech and language skills to tell someone what is bothering them. Common signs to look for are unusual irritability, difficulty sleeping, tugging or pulling at one or both ears, fever, fluid draining from the ear, loss of balance, and/or unresponsiveness to quiet sounds or other signs of hearing difficulty such as sitting too close to the television or being inattentive.

If your child has symptoms of earache or infection, you may want to try the onion "ear muff" remedy below before rushing for a prescription of antibiotics. A study published in the British Medical Journal in July 2002 found that most children with ear infections will not benefit symptomatically from immediate use of antibiotics, especially children without high temperature or vomiting. It did state that children with high temperature or vomiting were more likely to benefit from antibiotics, but that it is still reasonable to wait 24-48 hours as many children will improve anyway.

According to the National Institutes of Health some bacteria have become resistant to antibiotics, and antibiotics may produce unwanted side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and rashes. Many doctors ask parents to watch their child's symptoms for a couple of days, since more than 80% of ear infections get better without treatment. Antibiotics have only minimal benefits in reducing pain and fever.



ONION "EAR MUFFS":

Cut a thick slice of onion.

Wrap in a sock, thin kitchen towel or 2 paper towels.

Microwave for 10-20 seconds (depending on the strength of your microwave).

Test the surface to ensure that it is not too hot.

Hold near-not touching- the affected ear for 5 minutes.

Onions have antibacterial properties, and their vapors help release pressure and clear infection. The only side effect is that your child may temporarily smell like onions.


If your child is getting ear infections, here's how to break the cycle:

1. Stay away from the antibiotics unless absolutely necessary. Antibiotics destroy the beneficial flora in the intestines, decreasing immunity and digestive ability.

2. Avoid feeding your child foods that are difficult to digest, such as milk, cheese, peanut butter, cold or iced foods and drinks, and raw fruits and vegetables. These foods are hard to break down and can damage the intestinal walls, causing inflammation in the body. Excessive intake of dairy products may be the number one cause of chronic recurring ear infections. Cut out the dairy for at least one month to clear the body.

3. Acupuncture, Acupressure, Chinese Pediatric Massage and Herbs are effective for boosting immunity to prevent infections as well as clear current infections.

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Spaghetti Squash: A Healthy, Seasonal Taste Treat

A warm, yummy source of calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A and E

This time of year pumpkins get a lot of attention, but I want to spotlight another seasonal squash: spaghetti squash, which is currently on sale at Vitamin Cottage for 75 cents per pound (organic!). Not only is it delicious, but it is a good source of calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A and E.

In addition to building strong bones and teeth, recent research credits calcium (see September's newsletter) with reducing the incidence of colon cancer and lowering blood cholesterol levels. It also helps ease insomnia, lower blood pressure, and maintain proper nerve and muscle function.

Magnesium, also found in dark leafy greens such as kale, enhances the neuromuscular activity of the heart and helps convert blood sugar into energy. Antioxidant vitamin E slows cellular aging and fends off cancer while vitamin A is important for healthy skin, vision and bones as well as reducing risks of lung and oral cancers.

Spaghetti squash is easy to cook:
Crack it open lengthwise with a butcher knife and place the cleaved ends down on a shallow pan. Bake at 350 degrees until the hard shell gives to the touch-30 to 45 minutes. (If you don't have a butcher or other sharp, heavy knife, you can bake the squash whole for about an hour or so before cooling and cutting it open.) Once done, cool, remove the seeds, and scoop out the pulp, which tastes great with just a little salt and pepper, or nutmeg to enhance the sweetness. You can also put marinara sauce on it as a replacement for pasta.

Spaghetti Squash Pizza Crust: Whirl half a spaghetti squash in the blender with 2-4 eggs and a pinch of salt. Add enough corn meal and a little olive oil to make a batter, and spread onto pizza pans to bake at 350° until firm and golden. When almost done, top with fixings-I suggest pizza sauce, chopped basil and a few dollops of goat cheese-and finish off in the oven.

Here are more recipes for spaghetti squash.


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Robin Joins the Staff of CU's Wardenburg Health Center

Students, faculty and staff receive acupuncture treatments in the Sports Medicine department

Starting in November I will be the staff acupuncturist in the Sports Medicine department of CU's Wardenburg Health Center two days per week in addition to my private practice. I'll be filling in for my colleauge, Jennifer McLemore, L.Ac., who originated Wardenburg's acupuncture program in 2004. She will be taking a leave of absence until next Fall, when we will likely each work at the center one day per week. The Sports Medicine department also employs chiropractors, orthopedists, physical therapists and massage therapists. If you know a student, faculty or staff member at CU Boulder who would like the convenience of getting acupuncture treatment on campus, have them call (303) 492-6280 or make an appointment online.

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9Health Fair is October 17th-19th, 2008

Get free health screenings and low-cost blood tests at Dick's Sporting Goods Park

If you missed the 9Health Fair in Boulder last Spring, here's another chance to participate. This weekend the Health Fair will be held at Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, just northeast of Denver.

Some of the screenings available (free unless otherwise listed) are:

Blood Count Screening (Blood Draw) - $15
Blood Chemistry Screening (Blood Draw - 12-hour fast required) - $30
Breast Screening
Colorectal Cancer FIT Kit Screening - $20
Heart Health Corner
Lung Function Screening
Mental Health Screening
Oral Health Screening
Osteoporosis Screening
Pap Smear Screening
Prostate/Testicular Screening
Pulse Oximetry
Skin Screening

I whole-heartedly agree with the 9Health Fair's mission, which is to promote health awareness and to encourage individuals to assume responsibility for their own health. Their goal is to reach as many people as possible by offering free and low-cost health awareness and educational screenings. Take advantage now, as the next 9Health Fair will not be held until April 18-26, 2009!

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Free Event: Fitness Walk and Q&A with a Trainer

Take a walk along the Boulder Creek Path with fitness trainer Sarah Eley and ask all the fitness, exercise and nutrition questions your heart desires!

What : Q&A Fitness Walk with Personal Trainer Sarah Eley Cost: Free
When: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month 12:00 - 12:30 pm
Starting November 5th Where: Healthstyles Exercise Equipment:
2490 Arapahoe Ave
(across the parking lot from Blockbuster at the corner of Folsom and Arapahoe in Boulder)

Thank you for reading and for sharing this with others. Remember to visit acupunctureboulder.com for new additions and changes, to request an appointment, or to read past issues of Acupuncture Boulder News!

Warmest Regards,
Robin

www.acupunctureboulder.com

Robin L. Schiesser, L.Ac.
2955 Valmont Rd., Suite 100
Boulder, CO 80301
(720) 320-1075