Where are PBDEs found? Just about everywhere, such as in carpets, textiles, foam furnishings, electronics and plastics. PBDEs can leach out into the environment and accumulate in human fat cells. Is it any wonder then that PBDEs can be found in the blood of most American residents? And, if you live in California the situation is even more criticaul because of the state’s rigorous flammability laws. Concentrations of the chemicals in blood and breast milk have increased dramatically in the last three decades.

Though it is not currently known just how the chemicals interfere with thyroid function, researchers believe that PBDEs could bind to thyroid receptors and alter how the hormone is released. The bottom line, however, is that these chemicals are dangerous, especially for pregnant women. “Our results suggest that exposure to PBDE flame retardants may have unanticipated human health risks,” said Brenda Eskenazi, a professor of epidemiology and of maternal and child health at UC Berkeley.

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Athletes are particularly at risk when it comes to functional challenges created by dehydration. “Physiologically, their core body temperature could be higher than it should have been if they were hydrated. Their heart rate will be higher, and they’re going to perceive that they’re working harder than they actually are,” said Susan Yeargin, assistant professor of athletic training in Indiana State’s College of Nursing, health, and Human Services.  A high percentage of collegiate and professional athletes begin the season dehydrated, putting their health at risk even before they begin strenuous workouts, according to researchers at Indiana State University. In fact, eighty percent of football players displayed symptoms of dehydration during pre-season physical examinations.

Confused about how much water is enough water? Chiropractors, like most health care professionals, recommend a minimum of eight, 8-ounce glasses of water daily for many patients, but for our patients who are athletes, or for individuals who are overweight or exercise or work where it’s hot, we recommend even more. There is a fairly uncomplicated way for you to be sure that you’re drinking an adequate amount of water. Your urine color is a good indicator. If it comes out a light, pale yellow, it’s an indication that you’re well-hydrated!

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You’ve probably noticed that your body is going through quite a few changes, and these alterations will continue as your pregnancy progresses. One change that goes basically unnoticed is your body’s increased production of the hormone elastin. This hormone is designed to relax the tendons in your pelvis. This relaxation allows your pelvis more flexibility during the birthing process to make delivering your baby easier.

This process, though wonderful in assisting during labor, can produce much discomfort in the months leading up to the birth. As your pregnancy advances, more elastin is released, which allows your pelvis to become increasingly more unstable. Add to that the gradual increase in the size of your baby and uterus, and you have the recipe for severe low back pain. As a chiropractor, Dr. Yong Kim has had many pregnant patients coming into his  office for symptoms associated with their pregnancy but, as a rule, it is generally for their low back pain.

One side benefit of having your spine and pelvis checked by a chiropractor regularly during your pregnancy is that there is proof that it can actually decrease labor time. Why? Simply put, if your pelvis is aligned properly, the muscles contracting during the labor process are more efficient because they don’t have to fight past misaligned joints.

chiropractic is not only safe and beneficial in relieving the low back pain associated with pregnancy, but other symptoms like heartburn, nausea, swelling, and so on. And, if needed, your well-trained chiropractor can also help with a breached baby. This is done by using the Webster Technique, a low force technique to manipulate the uterus and get the baby into the proper position for delivery. (A simple Google search on the Webster Technique can give you much more information.)

If you are pregnant, you can feel confident in seeing your chiropractor.  Chiropractic care can not only make you a lot more comfortable in the months of your pregnancy, but it can make your labor process easier as well!

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