BIA Explained: Measuring Muscle Mass and More
Image by Christi Nielsen via Flickr
The following guest post was written by Dr. Joseph A. Debé, a graduate of Southern California University of Health Sciences. He is a Chiropractor with Board Certification in Nutrition, a licensed Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist, as well as a Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner. You can read more of Dr. Debé’s posts at www.drdebe.com.
Most individuals embarking upon a weight-loss program set a goal to lose a certain number of pounds. They often become obsessed with checking their progress on the bathroom scale. Although a change in body weight is of importance, it is really very incomplete data. The issue is that the scale does not tell you what type of body tissue you are losing or gaining. It is very common for people to think they are achieving a desirable result in losing weight when in fact they are losing lean, healthy tissue and not fat. It is also very possible to see no change on the bathroom scale as your body is simultaneously building lean, healthy tissue and burning fat.
The numbers people should be concerned with are those concerning their body composition rather than body weight. There are a number of methods available to measure body composition including dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), radioisotope dilution, and computerized tomography scanning. These methods are not readily available, however. The more commonly used techniques include hydrostatic (underwater) weighing, skinfold testing, near-infrared interactance, bioelectrical impedance, girth or circumference measurements, and body mass index (weight divided by height squared). Of these methods, under-water weighing was long considered the gold standard. In the last couple of years, a company called RJL Systems has developed advanced computer software, based on DEXA, for use with their bioelectrical impedance analyzer. This system is more accurate and reproducible than underwater weighing. What’s more, it gives additional extremely valuable information not available with the other techniques.
Bioelectrical impedance analysis works in the following way. The subject lies down on a flat surface and has electrodes attached to the wrist and ankle of their dominant side. A device is attached to the electrodes, which sends a very weak electrical current through the body (nothing is felt). The device measures the voltage drop of this current and yields two measurements: resistance and reactance. The values for resistance and reactance are entered into a computer program along with the subject’s height and weight. Mathematical analysis of these data yields the body composition measurements.
Electrical resistance is a measure of ability to conduct an electrical current. A good conductor has low resistance. The extracellular water (ECW) or fluid found outside the body cells, in combination with electrolytes, is the main conductor of the body. Fat, which has a low water content, has a high resistance. The resistance value is used to give a measure of the extracellular volume of the body.
Electrical reactance is an indication of capacitance – the ability of the body cells to store an electrical charge. Reactance is directly proportional to intracellular volume.
All other commonly available methods of measuring body composition divide tissue into two compartments: fat and fat-free mass (FFM). This is valuable information. However, the RJL Fluid and Nutrition Analysis takes things one step further. Not only does it measure fat and fat-free mass, but it further sub-divides fat-free mass into the compartments of body cell mass (BCM) and extracellular tissue (ECT). Measures of total body water (TBW), extracellular water (ECW), intracellular water (ICW), and phase angle are also made. Also, an estimate of basal metabolic rate is given. Now, let’s see what all this means and how it is of value to people trying to lose weight, bodybuilders, endurance athletes, individuals on detoxification or anti-aging programs, and the acutely and chronically ill.
Body cell mass (BCM) is one of the most important values obtained with this testing. BCM is the measure (given in pounds and as a percentage of body weight) of all the living metabolically active tissue in the body – muscle, organ, and blood cells. Contained within BCM are all the body’s intracellular water (ICW), and proteins and other solids. With serial testing, a change in body cell mass is due primarily to a change in muscle mass. Changes in BCM can be picked up within 72 hours. Increases in BCM equate with anabolism – the process of converting food into living tissue. Decreases in BCM are involved in catabolic (breaking down) processes. BCM is the tissue that is consumed (with negative consequences) in illness, disease, aging, under-nutrition, and athletic overtraining. Decreasing BCM from any cause leads to weakened immunity, failure to thrive, and eventually death.
In the early stages of catabolism, there is no change in fat-free mass (FFM) as healthy cells break down and BCM becomes extracellular tissue (ECT). The other methods of body composition analysis that measure only FFM are insensitive to these changes. The RJL system, by dividing FFM into BCM and ECT, can detect catabolism in the earliest stages and allow for early intervention and a more successful outcome. Decreases in BCM have been measured in asymptomatic HIV patients when other methods of analysis yielded normal values. Maintaining BCM can prolong survival in AIDS patients.
Another important application of BCM measurement is in weight loss programs. It is critical to track BCM during weight loss so that lifestyle changes can be made, if necessary, before damage is done. With improper weight loss programs, BCM decreases and the body’s set point (resting energy requirements) is reduced. The body will then store fat more easily. BCM measurements are also invaluable to the bodybuilder. Increasing BCM means muscle is being built, decreasing BCM means muscle is being broken down, regardless of what the bathroom scale implies. A normal value for BCM may range from 30% to 55% of body weight.
Intracellular water (ICW) is the potassium based fluid volume located in the BCM. Extracellular water (ECW) is the sodium based fluid volume located in the extracellular tissue (ECT). ECT is also made up of proteins and other solids and includes such tissues as the tendons, skin, bones, and other connective tissues. ECW is located between the cells, within blood vessels, and other spaces such as the intestines. ECW and ICW are measured in liters and expressed as percentages of total body water. Normal values for ICW range from 41% to 70%. Normal values for ECW range from 29% to 61%.
Changes in ICW mirror changes in BCM, and changes in ECW reflect changes in ECT. The balance between ICW and ECW indicate whether the body is in an anabolic or catabolic state. Sarcopenia, the loss of lean body mass that occurs with aging, can be seen in decreasing ICW and increasing ECW values.
Hydration is critical to the metabolic performance of the muscle cell. According to Haussinger, et al, from the May 22, 1993 issue of The Lancet, “An increase in cellular hydration (swelling) acts as an anabolic proliferative signal, whereas cell shrinkage is catabolic and anti-proliferative. Cellular hydration state is mainly determined by the activity of ion and substrate transport systems in the plasma membrane.” Hormones, anabolic steroids, cytokines, free radicals, chemotherapeutic and other drugs, amino acids and creatine monohydrate are among the compounds that influence ICW.
TBW, ECW, and ICW can reveal dehydration, water retention, and effectiveness of treatment in correcting these conditions. Fluid changes usually occur first in the ECW. For example, in dehydration the ICW only begins to decrease after there has been significant depletion of ECW. Importantly, the RJL system can be used to measure hydration status in endurance athletes, as a small loss of body water can adversely affect performance.
Another valuable bit of data produced by this system is the phase angle, which is a mathematical relationship between resistance and reactance. The phase angle is an indication of the health of the body cell membranes. With ill health the cell membrane fails, allowing leakage of the cell’s contents. With a decrease in the number of the body’s cells the reactance and phase angle both decrease. The higher the phase angle the greater the state of health and fitness. As health improves, so does the phase angle. The normal range for the phase angle is 4° to 12°. A study of patients with congestive heart failure found altered reactance, suggesting a change in cell membrane permeability. These values improved with treatment. Other studies have found the phase angle to very accurately predict disease progression in AIDS patients. The lower the phase angle the worse the prognosis.
The RJL Fluid and Nutrition Analysis system is used in hospital settings to monitor patients with a wide variety of conditions. Its breadth of information, accuracy, and repeatability allow for early intervention and improved outcome with patients suffering: burns, cancer, edema-dependent hypertension, AIDS, congestive heart failure, pulmonary edema, kidney disease, blood infection, and post-surgery.
In addition to giving important information on anabolic/catabolic states and the nature of tissue and fluid change to dieters, bodybuilders, and endurance athletes, the RJL system is extremely valuable to individuals engaged in metabolic detoxification programs. My own personal experience is a good example. I was tested with the RJL system immediately before starting and one week into a detoxification program. In that one week, I lost six pounds of body weight. Importantly, my BCM did not change; indicating that I was not in a catabolic state which can be a concern on this type of program. Three and a half pounds of my weight loss were in the form of fat. I lost a liter of body fluid, with all of it coming from the ECW compartment, none from ICW. This was probably due to the fact that the first place the body stores toxins is where they will do the least harm – in the ECW. As my body excreted toxins, there was less of a demand to retain ECW to dilute them. The week of detoxification also resulted in an increase in my phase angle, indicating improved health.
Testing with the RJL system is fast, safe, inexpensive, and non-invasive. I recommend for people to be tested at intervals of about 4 to 6 weeks for general purposes. In cases of illness or intense dietary and activity changes, testing can be performed once per week or more often.
Dr. Joseph A. Debé
What is Functional Medicine?
The following guest post was written by Dr. Ron Grisanti, a board certified chiropractic orthopedist with a master’s degree in nutritional science from the University of Bridgeport. You can read more of Dr. Grisanti’s posts at www.FunctionalMedicineUniversity.com and www.Clinical-Rounds.com.
It’s a science-based, natural way to become healthy again
Functional Medicine is patient-centered medical healing at its best. Instead of looking at and treating health problems as isolated diseases, it treats individuals who may have bodily symptoms, imbalances and dysfunctions.
As the following graphic of an iceberg shows, a named disease such as diabetes, cancer, or fibromyalgia might be visible above the surface, but according to Functional Medicine, the cause lies in the altered physiology below the surface. Almost always, the cause of the disease and its symptoms is an underlying dysfunction and/or an imbalance of bodily systems.
If health care treats just the tip of the iceberg, it rarely leads to long-term relief and vibrancy. Identifying and treating the underlying root cause or causes, as Functional Medicine does, has a much better chance to successfully resolve a patient’s health challenge.
Using scientific principles, advanced diagnostic testing and treatments other than drugs or surgery, Functional Medicine restores balance in the body’s primary physiological processes. The goal: the patient’s lifelong optimal health.
How Functional Medicine Heals a Key Health Care Gap
Today’s health care system is in trouble because it applies a medical management model that works well for acute health problems to chronic health problems, where it is much less successful.
If you have a heart attack, accident, or sudden lung infection such as pneumonia, you certainly want a quick-thinking doctor to use all the quick-acting resources of modern medicine, such as life-saving technology, surgery and antibiotics. We are all grateful about such interventions.
However, jumping in with drugs, surgery and other acute care treatments too often does not succeed in helping those with chronic, debilitating ailments, such as diabetes, heart disease or arthritis. Another approach is needed.
The Two-Pronged Healing Approach of Functional Medicine
To battle chronic health conditions, Functional Medicine uses two scientifically grounded principles:
- Add what’s lacking in the body to nudge its physiology back to a state of optimal functioning.
- Remove anything that impedes the body from moving toward this optimal state of physiology.
Plainly put, your body naturally wants to be healthy. But things needed by the body to function at its best might be missing, or something might be standing in the way of its best functioning. Functional Medicine first identifies the factors responsible for the malfunctioning. Then it deals with those factors in a way appropriate to the patient’s particular situation.
Very often Functional Medicine practitioners use advanced laboratory testing to identify the root cause or causes of the patient’s health problem. Old-fashioned medical diagnosis helps too, in the form of listening carefully to the patient’s history of symptoms and asking questions about his or her activities and lifestyle.
For treatment, Functional Medicine practitioners use a combination of natural agents (supplements, herbs, nutraceuticals and homeopathics), nutritional and lifestyle changes, spiritual/emotional counseling, and pharmaceuticals, if necessary to prod a patient’s physiology back to an optimal state. In addition, educating the patient about their condition empowers them to take charge of their own health, ultimately leading to greater success in treatment.
Treating Symptoms Versus Treating the Person
In the dominant health care model today, medication is used to get rid of people’s symptoms. If the patient stops taking the medication, symptoms generally return.
Functional Medicine approaches health problems differently. Instead of masking the problem, it aims at restoring the body’s natural functioning. Although Functional Medicine practitioners may prescribe pharmaceuticals, they are used to gently nudge the patient’s physiology in a positive direction so the patient will no longer need them.
For example, conventional doctors would normally prescribe pharmaceuticals like Prilosec, Prevacid or Aciphex to treat acid reflux or heartburn. When the patient stops taking such drugs, the heartburn symptoms come back. In contrast, a Functional Medicine practitioner might find that a patient’s acid reflux is caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Eradicating the Helicobacter pylori might very well lead to the end of heartburn symptoms, permanently.
It’s also important to note that in Functional Medicine, treatment for similar symptoms might vary tremendously for different patients, according to their medical history and results of laboratory tests. Factors that can come into play in producing the same symptoms include toxic chemicals, pathogenic bacteria, parasites, chronic viral pathogens, emotional poisons like anger, greed or envy, and structural factors such as tumors or cysts.
The Roots of Functional Medicine
Sir William Osler, Functional Medicine Pionee
You may be surprised to learn that Functional Medicine isn’t new. It actually represents a return to the roots of modern scientific medicine, captured in this statement by Sir William Osler, one of the first professors at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and later its Physician-in-Chief: “The good physician treats the disease; the great physician treats the patient who has the disease.”
Another important saying by Osler is “If you listen carefully to the patient, they will tell you the diagnosis.” This encapsulates the importance placed in Functional Medicine on taking a thorough history from the patient.
Your Experience of Functional Medicine
We have titled this web site, “Your Medical Detective,” because patients often feel their Functional Medicine practitioner is leaving no stone unturned in their relentless research to pinpoint the causes of a particular patient’s symptoms.
When you consult a Functional Medicine practitioner, the first step is always your history. Practitioners are trained on how to unravel and make sense of a complicated story. Often clues in the story lead to the identification of key imbalances.
The next set of clues comes from a comprehensive physical examination, which includes many nearly forgotten examination procedures used by famous diagnosticians (both living and long gone), such as chapman reflex points, ankle brachial reflex and nail inspection.
The final set of clues comes from advanced laboratory testing. Innovative, cutting-edge lab tests help the practitioner look deeply into a patient’s physiology to identify how it has been compromised and how physiological balance can be restored.
After diagnosis and treatment, a Functional Medicine patient can expect his or her symptoms to diminish in severity, with a renewed sense of well-being and significant increase in health and vitality.
While there is no substitute for face-to-face treatment from a trained Functional Medicine practitioner, this site educates you on the Functional Medicine perspective and on the kinds of clues and treatments that may be key to restoring you to optimal health.
Seasons Team Members Rockin’ and Rollin’
Trevor Torres crossing the finish line at "Rock n' Roll Mardi Gras" Half Marathon (New Orleans, La.)
Running is addicting, or so we’ve heard. Two members of the Seasons team have become addicts. On Sunday, February 13th, Trevor Torres and Bethany Cox both completed their second half-marathon, the “Rock ‘n Roll Mardi Gras” in New Orleans, LA. Along with 17,000 others, these two athletes completed the 13.1 mile run benefiting the American Cancer Society.
Training for a half-marathon can be strenuous. It takes weeks, even months, to train for the 13.1 mile trek. “I made sure I gave myself a couple days rest within the week, which helped my muscles recuperate after the long run days. Two weeks before the race was my longest run.” Most runners, like Bethany, follow a training schedule to prepare and build up their endurance for the big day. “The race itself was such an adrenaline rush…and the weather was perfect!”
The “Rock n’ Roll” marathon series is known for having great local music and entertainment along the race routes. “This was my second half marathon in the Rock ‘n Roll series and I really enjoy the live bands along the entire course that make it entertaining!” said Trevor. “It gives you something to look forward to every mile and a headliner band at the finish line!”
"I love Rock 'n Rolls!" Bethany Cox, LMT (New Orleans, La.)
The New Orleans course started near the convention center downtown, then went through uptown, the garden district, French Quarter, and ended in City Park. “It was a great scenic route, and we could not have asked for better weather. It was in the 40’s that morning, and by the time I finished, it was in the low 50’s. I’m looking forward to my next half marathon in March, the Rock ‘n Roll — Dallas!”
At Seasons, our approach to wellness is centered around five main areas, one of which is exercise. It is important to include exercise in your healthy living plan. We are so proud of these two team members and hope this encourages you in your journey to wellness.
The 6-Month Countdown to a Beautiful Bride
Image by George Eastman House via Flickr
The church…the flowers…the dress. Every bride dreams of that special day, that combination of time, place, and unique elements that make a wedding day memorable. The planning begins months in advance. Armed with a head-to-toe countdown plan, Seasons has just what every bride needs to look her best.
6 months prior to the big day…
- Complexion analysis. An analysis by our VISIA Imaging System will measure vascular and melanin conditions such as pigmentation, pores, wrinkles, texture, porphyrins, UV spots and photodamage. The computer-generated report gives recommendations for facial rejuvenation treatment and ongoing skin care to reverse the ravages of life on your face. Complimentary with any treatment.
- Microdermabrasion. Seasons skin care specialist Joy Smith advises microdermabrasion monthly for skin treatments to be effective. “Your skin cells regenerate every 28 days so it is important to exfoliate,” said Smith. “Products are most beneficial when they are able to penetrate the skin.” Suitable for most skin types, microdermabrasion is a non-surgical mechanical exfoliation that removes the outer layer of dead, dry skin. Regular treatments stimulate cell regeneration and improve the appearance of brown spots, shallow acne scars, sun damage, enlarged pores, and fine lines.
- Skin Care. You’ll want to complete the skin care countdown plan with great products such as Obagi Medical Products or Guinot skin care products. Regular skin care will slow down the aging process and allow a healthy glow all day everyday.
- Hair removal with IPL. While on your honeymoon to some exotic and relaxing location, unwanted hair should be the last thing on your mind! IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments should begin 6 months in advance. Hair removal with IPL is fast and very effective in eliminating large areas of unwanted hair. Light is absorbed by the pigment in the hair and converted to heat in the follicle. The heat damages the follicle and disables it from growing new hair. Excellent for areas such as the lip, under arms, or even the bikini area, this treatment lasts only 10 to 15 minutes, works best on darker hair, and is recommended in a series of four to six treatments. Consultation required.
- Cellulite reduction. Does the thought of wearing a bikini on your honeymoon make you cringe? Using our cellulite reduction system, Smooth Shapes, can reduce cellulite so you have less worrying and more time to enjoy yourself! Smooth Shapes is a pain-free treatment uses dynamic laser and light energy with the ultimate result of tighter and smoother skin. Collagen is regenerated, circulation is improved and metabolic processes are restored. Recommended in a series of eight. Consultation required.
- Holy Yoga. Begin a fitness routine that tones your body and soothes your spirit. Flexibility, strength, muscle tone, pain prevention, stress reduction, and improved breathing are all benefits you’ll find in a Holy Yoga class. Instructor Megan Peters is the only certified Holy Yoga instructor in Louisiana. Classes are held in the Resource Room at Seasons in Ruston.
3 months prior to the big day…
- Infrared Sauna. If you are trying to kiss those last few pounds goodbye you may want to try our infrared sauna. It’s designed to help you burn calories by simply relaxing.
- Swedish Relaxation Massage. To replenish your energy and rejuvenate yourself, there is nothing better than a Swedish relaxation massage. This particular massage is designed to relax your entire body and mind. After this treatment, you will feel refreshed and ready to take on any planning task.
- Hydradermie Lift. Hydradermie Lift provides a “youth revolution” by stimulating facial muscles to give them new tone and exerting a lifting effect on the features. Using galvanic currents, the hydradermie lift stimulates the muscles of the face, neck, and eyes giving you the effects of a face-lift without the surgery. This relaxing procedure encourages lymphatic drainage of the face and neck, reducing swelling and leaving your face with a youthful, healthy glow.
1 month prior to the big day…
- Hot Stone Massage. Relax and enjoy a complete mind, body, and soul treatment with the benefits of a deep tissue massage without the deep pressure. This massage promotes healing and well-being on all levels by using hot stones.
- European Facial. For all skin types, this relaxing facial includes cleansing, exfoliation, aromatherapy, steam and extractions. The pampering continues with an upper body massage followed by a custom mask and a moisturizer to finish.
- Paraffin Therapy. Experience this warm and relaxing therapy for hands or feet. Healing heat penetrates deeply and promotes relaxation. This therapy is ideal for achy muscles, arthritic joints, and rough, dry skin.
Confused? Overwhelmed? Let Seasons create a countdown plan for your big day with a free consultation. We’ll customize a treatment plan to fit your lifestyle, your budget, and your needs. Let us help you glow for your special day. Call 318-255-1155 (Ruston) or 318-340-1778 (Monroe) to schedule a consultation.
SEASONS Greetings!
Dr. Nathan Goodyear and the entire staff at Seasons Wellness Clinic and Seasons – The Spa would like to wish you Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! During this Christmas season, may we remember the true meaning of Christmas and not find ourselves lost in the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Instead, let us all rejoice in the birth of our Savior, Christ the Lord, and the hope that his birth, death, and resurrection provide for each of us. May this Christmas season be a time for your family to gather, celebrate, and reflect on 2010 and look forward to a happy and healthy 2011.
Sauna | eMPOWER
Seasons would like to give a warm welcome to it’s newest member of the team: The Sunlighten eMPOWER Infrared Sauna. This six-person infrared sauna is the ultimate escape. Whether looking for weight loss, blood pressure reduction, pain relief or simply relaxation, this is the perfect addition to help solve your health and wellness needs.
What is an Infrared Sauna?
Sunlighten Infrared Sauna
Infrared Light
Infrared light is the natural radiant heat emitted by the sun. It is 100% safe and even used to warm premature babies. Picture yourself feeling the sun’s rays on a warm day. That is what it is like to be in a Sunlighten Sauna. This comforting heat warms you from the inside, for a deep and detoxifying sweat.
Sunlighten vs. Traditional Saunas
Sunlighten Saunas use infrared heat rays instead of steam, as is used in traditional saunas. Infrared gently heats the body from within instead of heating the air. It has the ability to penetrate the surface of the skin, which gives your body overall radiant warmth. Traditional heaters only heat the air, which can become extremely hot and uncomfortable in which to breathe.
Carbon vs. Ceramic Heaters
Sunlighten’s carbon-based heating technologies emit more infrared energy at a lower surface temperature. This leads to pain relief, better circulation and more effective detoxification, among several other benefits.
Carbon Surround, Solocarbon® and Solocarbon® Custom Spectrum
While Carbon Surround is the best infrared therapy in its class, Solocarbon® is the most advanced and beneficial technology available. In fact, Solocarbon has been clinically shown to raise core body temperature nearly 3o in a 30 min. session. This is important, because raising core body temperature is the catalyst for nearly all of the health benefits associated with infrared therapy. With the introduction of Solocarbon® Custom Spectrum, Sunlighten now offers a heating technology capable of delivering near, mid and far infrared to more precisely target a myriad of personalized health concerns.
What are the benefits of an Infrared Sauna?
Sunlighten | eMPOWER
Detoxification
Sweating is the body’s safe and natural way to heal, stay healthy and detoxify. In a Sunlighten Sauna, the average person sweats out 20% toxins and 80% water, while in a conventional sauna, the average person only sweats out 3% toxins and 97% water.
Weight Loss
Studies have shown a 30 minute infrared sauna session can burn upwards of 600 calories. As the body works to cool itself while using an infrared sauna, there is a substantial increase in heart rate, cardiac output and metabolic rate.
Relaxation
Sunlighten saunas deliver the ultimate experience in relaxation. With the most therapeutic infrared heat found in Solocarbon® heating technology, our saunas are guaranteed to help you relax in comfort with an invigorating sweat that will have you feeling stress-free with each session.
Pain Relief
Clinical research on pain has shown evidence of heat responsive pain or HRP, which encompasses several common pain conditions that can be specifically treated with the use of our infrared heat therapy.
Blood Pressure Reduction
Sunlighten’s Solocarbon® heaters were shown in a clinical study by the University of Missouri Kansas City in 2005 to lower blood pressure from a 30 minute infrared sauna session three times per week.
To learn more about the Sunlighten Infrared Saunas, visit their website: www.sunlighten.com or stop by our Ruston location in Northpointe Office Park. Pricing begins at $15 per session, or sign up for an unlimited month for $195. Call 255-1155 to schedule your sauna appointment today!
It’s Me, Bethany!
- Bethany Cox, LMT
College, for most people, is a time to really figure out what career path to choose. It’s a time to branch out, experience new avenues, and make life-long friends. For me, only part was true. I came to college knowing exactly what career path I wanted to take, which, ironically, did not require a bit of college in the first place. I wanted to be a massage therapist.
Choosing my major was not too difficult. A degree in health and exercise science was going to give me the anatomy/kinesiology background I would need to get a jump-start on the massage classes I would need to take in the future. Graduation came and went, and I was headed to Nashville to fulfill my career dream.
Massage therapy school at Natural Health Institute was one of the best years of my life! I really believe I learned more about myself in that one year than I did all through those four years of college. I began studying for my board exam in March, but experienced that typical “crunch time” those few days before the test in the beginning of May.
Nashville experienced quite a devastating flood during that same time (May 2010). That whole weekend I was stuck inside studying as the torrential rains came down. As horrible as that time was for Country Music City, I did get some good quality studying in. The end result: PASSED!
Being back in my hometown and working at Seasons – The Spa has been nothing short of a blessing! I’m happy to be back, and excited about this career. Here at Seasons, we like to think “outside the box” when it comes to healing and all-around well-being.
Massage therapy is a great way to help circulate healthy oxygen to muscles, increase flexibility, and send natural nutrients to all parts of the body. It also de-stresses the body. With our crazy schedules and hectic lives, we all need some time to just relax. My favorite part of this job is when my clients leave with a smile. You deserve a break! Call in or drop by to schedule your massage today!
Spray Your Way to Good Health!
Every morning you have a routine: take a shower, get dressed, brush your teeth, fix your hair, eat breakfast, take your medicine, AND..try to swallow 7 huge vitamins that you can barely get down. Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to be able to just spray your vitamins? Well, now you can! The solution: Sprayology.
This all-natural product is homeopathic, has ZERO side-effects, and can be used for a variety of reasons. Some of the sprays that we have found to be most popular are Stress Relief, SleepEase, AllergEase, and Diet Power. Don’t just limit yourself to those, come by to check out the complete line of products at Seasons – The Spa in Northpointe Office Park in Ruston.
Fresh Face Forward
Shaping A Smoother You With SmoothShapes
Have you ever wondered if your cellulite could disappear? At Seasons, we have the technology to do just that. SmoothShapes, a state-of-the-art machine, is a pain-free treatment that uses dynamic laser and light energy to smooth and tighten skin. Collagen is regenerated, circulation is improved and metabolic processes are restored. This system is recommended in a series of eight treatments over a four-week period.
“Dermatologist Cheryl Karcher, MD. was very excited about SmoothShapes, a new laser treatment that she believes can significantly reduce the appearance of cellulite. ‘At this time, this is the only technology with a laser that’s specifically designed to melt fat.’” (Oprah Magazine; May 2009, p. 204)
A recent study was done in Phoenix with 83 patients that showed the SmoothShape system to effectively reduce thigh circumference. When the results came in, the average overall reduction among the thigh areas treated was 1.9 cm, with the maximum loss being 8.7 cm. “We generally saw the greatest results in the upper thigh,” said Dr. Robert A. Weiss, director of the Maryland Laser, Skin, and Vein Institute in Hunt Valley, Md. He concluded that the SmoothShapes system “was highly effective in producing thigh circumferential reduction at each thigh location and at each evaluation time-point in the study with 1- and 3-month follow-up.”
We all want to look better in our swimsuit, or maybe just feel better in our clothes. Anytime is a good time to think about cellulite. Give us a call to set up a consultation to see if SmoothShapes is right for you! SmoothShapes is available in our Ruston location at Seasons – The Spa, 318-255-1155.
