The Nuances of Body Mass Index (BMI): Understanding Its Limitations and Seeking Healthier Alternatives
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a widely used metric to assess body weight relative to height and is often regarded as a standard tool for gauging overall health. However, as we delve into the intricacies of BMI, it becomes evident that its accuracy can be affected by the vast differences in population demographics across the nation. In this month’s article, we will explore the limitations of BMI, understand its role in health assessment, and explore alternative methods that individuals can use to ensure they are at a healthy weight and body size for their optimum well-being.

The Basics of Body Mass Index (BMI):
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure calculated by dividing an individual’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters (BMI = weight (kg) / height^2 (m^2)). The resulting value is then categorized into different ranges, such as underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity. This standardized metric was initially intended to provide a general assessment of a person’s weight in relation to their height and serves as a screening tool for potential health risks associated with body weight.

Limitations of BMI:
Despite its widespread use, BMI has several limitations, particularly when applied to diverse populations. One of the main concerns is that BMI does not differentiate between fat mass and muscle mass. Individuals with a higher muscle mass, such as athletes and bodybuilders, may fall into the overweight or obese categories, even though they have low body fat and excellent cardiovascular health.
Moreover, BMI fails to account for the distribution of body fat. Central adiposity (excess fat around the waist) is known to be more detrimental to health than fat distributed in other areas of the body. Two individuals with the same BMI can have varying health risks based on their body fat distribution.
Variability in Population Demographics:

The population demographics across the nation are incredibly diverse, encompassing people of different ethnicities, cultures, and genetic backgrounds. These differences can significantly impact the interpretation of BMI. For instance, some ethnic groups may have a higher proportion of muscle mass, while others may have a predisposition to storing more fat in certain areas of the body.
As a result, relying solely on BMI to determine health risks can lead to misinterpretations and may not accurately reflect an individual’s health status.
Seeking Healthier Alternatives:
Given the limitations of BMI, it is essential to explore alternative methods that can provide a more comprehensive assessment of health and well-being. Here are some viable alternatives to consider:
A. Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR):
Waist-to-Hip Ratio is a measurement that assesses the distribution of fat in the body by dividing the waist circumference by the hip circumference. A higher WHR indicates central adiposity, which is associated with increased health risks. Unlike BMI, WHR takes into account the location of body fat, providing a more accurate assessment of potential health risks.
B. Body Composition Analysis:
Body composition analysis is a more advanced approach that utilizes methods such as Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA), bioelectrical impedance, or underwater weighing. These methods assess the proportion of fat, muscle, bone, and water in the body. By understanding the composition of the body, individuals can gain insight into their overall health and tailor lifestyle changes accordingly.
C. Waist Circumference:
Measuring waist circumference can be a simple yet effective method to evaluate health risks. Abdominal fat is closely associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. A waist circumference exceeding certain thresholds can be an indicator of potential health issues, regardless of BMI.

While Body Mass Index (BMI) has been a standard tool for assessing body weight and health. Its limitations become apparent when considering the vast differences in population demographics across the nation. The nuances of body fat distribution and varying muscle mass among diverse groups make it essential to seek alternative methods for assessing health risks accurately.
By exploring alternatives such as Waist-to-Hip Ratio, Body Composition Analysis, and Waist Circumference, individuals can gain a more comprehensive understanding of their health status. This can help to make informed decisions to achieve optimal well-being. It is crucial to remember that individualized assessments, coupled with a holistic approach to health, are key to promoting a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.

Stay tuned for my next adventure into Wellness, until then…
Aloha a hui hou!!
Keonemana
Check out our other articles you can find on our Blog:
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
- Aronson’s Family Dental and Biological Dentistry – A Journey into Wellness, Part 2
- Reset Medical Solutions with Brenna Galves “Educate, Empower, and Evolve” – A Journey into Wellness, Part 3
- “Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson – A Journey into Wellness, Part 4
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 5 – Hydration essential to Weight Loss, Wellness, and Health Support
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 6 – Chasing Hydration\
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 7 – IV Hydration
- Understanding the Fear of Needles: From History to Science and Coping Strategies
- Published in Pure Drip Blog
Understanding the Fear of Needles: From History to Science and Coping Strategies
Needle Phobia or Trypanophobia
Aloha!! In this month’s article, we will delve deeper into the origins of the fear of needles as a subconscious protective mechanism, explore the historical development of hypodermic needles and their life-saving impact, discuss the science behind the pain response and vasovagal reactions during needle puncture procedures, and provide comprehensive strategies to help individuals alleviate anxiety, fear, and reduce the potential for a vasovagal response.
The fear of needles, also known as needle phobia or trypanophobia, is a common and understandable concern among patients and clients in medical settings. This fear can lead to heightened anxiety, increased stress, and even avoidance of necessary medical procedures, such as intravenous (IV) insertion.

The Fear of Needles: A Subconscious Protective Mechanism
The fear of needles has deep-rooted origins in human evolution. Throughout history, encounters with sharp objects were often associated with danger, as injuries from these objects could lead to severe infections or even death. As a result, humans have developed an instinctive aversion to sharp objects, including needles.

This subconscious protective mechanism is an evolutionary adaptation that seeks to preserve our well-being. Our brains associate needle-like objects with potential harm, triggering the fight-or-flight response to avoid perceived danger. This innate response has been vital for human survival, protecting our ancestors from potential harm.
In the context of modern medicine, the fear of needles can become problematic for both patients and healthcare providers. However, understanding that this fear is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history can foster empathy and help healthcare professionals approach needle procedures with sensitivity and care.
The Medical Development of Hypodermic Needles: A Lifesaving Advancement
The invention of the hypodermic needle in the mid-19th century revolutionized healthcare practices and had a profound impact on medicine. Before this groundbreaking development, medical treatments were limited to oral administration or topical applications, which were often less effective in critical situations.
Hypodermic needles allowed for the precise delivery of medications and fluids directly into the bloodstream, enabling rapid and effective treatment. This breakthrough technology led to significant advancements in medical interventions, from administering anesthesia during surgeries to delivering life-saving medications in emergency situations.

However, it is essential to recognize that while hypodermic needles brought about unparalleled medical benefits, they also became associated with painful medical procedures, further contributing to the fear of needles among patients. The perception of pain during needle insertion, coupled with the fear of potential complications, has continued to fuel needle phobia.
The Science Behind Vasovagal Reactions and Needle Sticks
In addition, another challenging aversion to needles is when someone experiences an episode known as a Vasovagal Response. When a needle is inserted into the skin, nociceptors (pain receptors) detect the piercing, sending signals to the brain’s sensory cortex. This process activates the pain response, causing discomfort or pain sensations. Additionally, the fear and anxiety associated with needles can intensify the perception of pain.

For some individuals, the fear of needles can trigger what’s known as a Vasovagal Response. This autonomic nervous system reaction results in a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, leading to lightheadedness, dizziness, and even fainting. The vasovagal response is a protective mechanism that diverts blood away from the extremities to preserve essential organs when the body perceives a threat. Patients and/or Clients who experience postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) or orthostatic hypotension also known as postural hypotension, have a higher chance in experiencing an episode of a Vasovagal Response during a needle insertion.
Understanding the science behind pain and vasovagal responses can provide healthcare providers with valuable insights into how to minimize discomfort and stress during needle procedures. Implementing patient-centered care and adopting techniques to reduce anxiety can significantly improve the overall experience for needle-phobic patients.
Coping Strategies to Alleviate Anxiety and Fear of Needles
Needle Phobia or Trypanophobia
For patients and clients who experience fear or anxiety related to needles and or have a history of experiencing a vasovagal response, there are several coping strategies that can help alleviate distress and reduce the potential for vasovagal responses:
- Relaxation Techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or guided imagery, can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety before and during medical procedures involving needles. Encouraging patients to practice these techniques regularly can enhance their ability to cope with fear and anxiety.
- Distraction Techniques: Engaging in activities or conversations that divert attention away from the needle procedure can reduce anxiety levels. Listening to music, watching videos, or focusing on a specific object can be effective distractions. Healthcare providers can offer distractions during needle procedures to help patients focus on positive experiences rather than their fear.
- Gradual Exposure: Gradual exposure to needles, starting with less intimidating situations and progressing to more challenging ones, can build tolerance and reduce fear over time. Gradual exposure allows patients to confront their fear in a controlled manner, helping them gain confidence in managing their emotional response.

- Seeking Support: Talking openly with healthcare providers about needle phobia allows for a supportive and understanding environment. Healthcare professionals can provide reassurance, educate patients about the medical necessity of certain procedures, and offer techniques to help manage anxiety.
The fear of needles is a natural and deeply ingrained response rooted in our evolutionary history. While this fear can be challenging for patients and clients, it is essential to recognize that they are not alone in their struggles. Understanding the origins of this fear, the historical development of hypodermic needles, and the science behind pain responses and vasovagal reactions can foster empathy and awareness among healthcare providers.

By implementing coping strategies such as relaxation exercises, distraction techniques, and gradual exposure, patients and clients can take proactive steps to reduce their anxiety and fear related to needles. Together, with the support of healthcare professionals, we can create a more compassionate and comforting environment, ensuring that procedures involving needles, like Intravenous Hydration Therapy provided here at Pure Drip IV Health and Wellness, are as stress-free and as tolerable as possible for all individuals. By addressing the fear of needles and providing effective coping strategies, we empower patients to manage their emotions and enhance their overall medical experience.
Stay tuned for my next adventure into Wellness, until then…
Aloha a hui hou!!
Keonemana

Needle Phobia or Trypanophobia
Check out our other articles you can find on our Blog:
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
- Aronson’s Family Dental and Biological Dentistry – A Journey into Wellness, Part 2
- Reset Medical Solutions with Brenna Galves “Educate, Empower, and Evolve” – A Journey into Wellness, Part 3
- “Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson – A Journey into Wellness, Part 4
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 5 – Hydration essential to Weight Loss, Wellness, and Health Support
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 6 – Chasing Hydration\
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 7 – IV Hydration
- Published in Pure Drip Blog
A Journey into Wellness, Part 7 – IV Hydration
IV Hydration – Wellness Part 7
Aloha esteemed readers, it has been getting HOT out there! Hitting the reservoir or cooling by the river has been my favorite way to beat the heat and help to reduce my general stress levels, there’s nothing like being out in nature to help ground you. What do you do to escape the heat and ground yourself from the daily grind and stress?
In the last few articles we discussed the benefits of general hydration as well as the long term effects of dehydration. In this month’s article I am eager to discuss the benefits of “Intravenous (IV) Hydration”, a medical intervention that has immense potential in benefiting your well-being. This method entails the direct infusion of fluids and nutrients into the bloodstream, circumventing the digestive system to achieve rapid absorption and overall nourishment.
Intravenous hydration offers a compelling solution for individuals grappling with dehydration-related symptoms, such as fatigue, dizziness, and muscle cramps. By reinstating the body’s fluid balance, this therapy ushers in a renewed sense of vigor and vitality, making it a potent remedy for those seeking swift recovery and enhanced health.
The true beauty of Intravenous (IV) Hydration lies in its unique ability to deliver fluids and nutrients directly to every cell and tissue in the body. Incorporating IV hydration into one’s wellness regimen confers unparalleled advantages. Whether you are a busy professional, an athlete recuperating from intense physical exertion, or an individual looking for a path to better wellness and nutrient absorbtion, IV hydration holds the potential to invigorate your body and promote optimal health.

IV Hydration – Wellness Part 7
The science behind intravenous hydration revolves around the administration of a meticulously balanced solution directly into the veins, ensuring efficient delivery of fluids, electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals essential for physiological equilibrium. IV hydration transcends mere rehydration, as it plays a pivotal role in supporting various medical treatments and accelerating recovery, thus qualifying as an indispensable facet of preventive medicine.
Rest assured, the administration of intravenous hydration, here at Pure Drip IV Health and Wellness, is meticulously prepared by trained healthcare professionals, who are Registered Nurses, to ensure your safety. Your well-being is of our utmost importance. Furthermore, this therapy can be tailored to cater to your specific needs, be it rehydration, immune support, or vitamin replenishment.

The therapeutic applications of IV hydration are extensive and transcend physical health. This treatment exerts a beneficial influence on mental acuity, focus, and overall cognitive function. By optimally nourishing the body, intravenous hydration facilitates superior mental performance, enhancing productivity and promoting a heightened sense of well-being.
Contrary to popular belief, intravenous hydration is not confined to the acute clinical setting or just for the treatment of severe dehydration. Let us delve deeper into the scientific intricacies of IV Hydration. For athletes, IV Hydration proves invaluable in rapidly replenishing essential nutrients lost during strenuous physical activities. This facilitates optimal muscle repair and mitigates the risk of post-exercise soreness. By optimizing the body’s nutrient levels, athletes can significantly enhance their performance and achieve new milestones in their fitness endeavors.
Individuals grappling with chronic illnesses can also benefit profoundly from IV Hydration. Conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome, to name a few, may lead to dehydration and compromised nutrient absorption. IV Hydration serves as a critical tool in bridging nutritional gaps and improving overall well-being, empowering patients to better manage their conditions.
IV Hydration plays a pivotal role in bolstering immune health. As we navigate various environmental stressors and pathogenic threats, our immune system requires optimal nourishment to function at its best. IV Hydration, enriched with immune-boosting vitamins and minerals, fortifies the body’s defense mechanisms, reducing the risk of infections and facilitating expedited recovery from illnesses.

IV Hydration – Wellness Part 7
Beyond immediate relief, IV Hydration fosters enduring health benefits. Incorporating this therapy into your regular wellness routine, you establish a robust foundation for sustained health maintenance and disease prevention. However, it is vital to recognize that IV Hydration does not replace a wholesome lifestyle. I am an advocate for a comprehensive approach to well-being, encompassing proper nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate rest. IV Hydration should complement these practices and serve as an indispensable adjunct for addressing specific health needs.
Intravenous Hydration stands as a potent testament to the wonders of modern medicine. Its scientific efficacy in restoring physiological balance, expediting recovery, and promoting optimal health is truly awe-inspiring.

Stay tuned for my next adventure into Wellness, until then…
Aloha a hui hou!!
Keonemana
Check out our other articles you can find on our Blog:
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
- Aronson’s Family Dental and Biological Dentistry – A Journey into Wellness, Part 2
- Reset Medical Solutions with Brenna Galves “Educate, Empower, and Evolve” – A Journey into Wellness, Part 3
- “Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson – A Journey into Wellness, Part 4
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 5 – Hydration essential to Weight Loss, Wellness, and Health Support
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 6 – Chasing Hydration
- Published in Pure Drip Blog
A Journey into Wellness, Part 6 – Chasing Hydration
Chasing Hydration
Welcome back, it has been a beautiful summer so far. No regrets about the late start due to the rain because now everything is so green!!. I hope the season so far has been treating all of you well, and that you have been putting time into your personal journey of wellness!!

Chasing Hydration
In this month’s article I want to talk about dehydration. I always feel like I hear about all the health benefits of hydration, its key importance in wellness, and its critical role in so many functions in the body. Though, I also feel like I’m personally chasing adequate, or even mediocre, hydration. Life gets distracting and by the end of the day I realize I’ve had more cups of coffee than I had glasses of water! I know I “talk the talk” when it comes to good hydration, but I should also “walk the walk”. In this month’s article I want to highlight barriers to good hydration, what dehydration might feel and look like, as well as the potential long-term effects of dehydration on your body, health, and wellbeing.
A good way to begin is to talk about what is the ideal amount of water we ought to be drinking each day. It would be convenient to be able to provide a nice round number of ounces or liters that transcends all genders, ages, body types, activity levels, and other demographics, but it isn’t that simple. Your individual needs may vary due to your personal circumstances. Though we’ll do our best to address a generalized idea of adequate hydration as well as ways to assess your individual state of hydration.

Chasing Hydration
“Although nutritional and physiological research teams and professional organizations have described the daily “Total Water Intakes” and “Adequate Intakes” of children, women, and men, there is no widespread consensus regarding the human water requirements of different demographic groups. These requirements remain undefined because of the dynamic complexity inherent in the human water regulatory network, which involves the central nervous system and several organ systems, as well as large inter-individual differences.”
“Total water intake includes drinking water, water in beverages, and water in food. Daily water needs determined from fluid balance, water turnover, or consumption studies provide similar values for a given set of conditions. A daily water intake of 3.7 L for adult men and 2.7 L for adult women meets the needs of the vast majority of persons. However, strenuous physical exercise and heat stress can greatly increase daily water needs, and the individual variability between athletes can be substantial.”
In our previous article, “Hydration essential to Weight Loss, Wellness, and Health Support“ and in our “Between Two IV’s” Episode 2 we talk about a good way to measure your personal hydration that anyone can do in the comfort of their own home and privacy.

This has to do with the color of your urine. The ideal color is just about clear, with a slight tinge of yellow. It would also have a very subtle, to no smell to it, at all. If your urine is darker in color, even a light golden yellow, and there is a noticeable smell, it is a good indication that you need to drink more water. Keep in mind that some foods and medications can alter both the color and smell of your urine.
A common example are drinks that contain alcohol or caffeine which can make your urine clear and at times odorless. Alcohol and Caffeine are also diuretics which promote additional fluid loss and dehydration. There are also several medications that cause dehydration, and some chronic medical conditions that really require individuals to maintain adequate hydration to maintain a baseline of healthy living (ex. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
Chasing Hydration
There are some common barriers to achieving adequate hydration that we may have all faced at some point. Most of them are behavioral and lifestyle/habit forming behaviors. Luckily all of which can be changed, but like most things in our lifestyle that may require adjustment, it takes concerted effort, conscious awareness, and willpower. Most of the research on this subject really reflects challenges in the aging population in the clinical setting. Though I am certain we can all understand that in the general population, from young to old, there are some common themes that we have personal experience with or know of individuals that have:
- The dislike of the taste of plain water;
- Not having regularly accessible water for frequent fluid intake (e.g.: water bottle);
- Too busy and distracted and forget to drink water;
- Not wanting to use the restroom too frequently;
If you have challenges with drinking just plain water, you can add a little flare to it. Adding a slice of lemon or orange, even a few slices of cucumber or fresh strawberries can add additional flavor to your water without additional sugars, caffeine, or sodium that can promote more diuresis and dehydration. Carbonated soda water can also be a good alternative, but be sure to read the labeled ingredients to ensure it contains just carbonated water and natural flavors, avoiding sweeteners, caffeine, and drinks with sodium in them as that can promote dehydration.

Chasing Hydration
Having quick access to water can make it easier and more consistent to achieve regular water consumption and be able to maintain adequate hydration. Buying a dedicated water bottle for this objective can be helpful. Setting a goal to pick up your water bottle to take frequent sips every hour on the hour or challenging yourself on how many times you refill your water bottle each day can be engaging, turning it into a fun personal goal or game each day. The main thing is to set yourself up for success, make it fun and engaging, and provide yourself with the tools to be successful in your goal to be well hydrated.
I can totally understand that some days can get too busy, we get distracted, and/or the urge to frequently use the restroom from drinking lots of water can get in the way of a productive day. Trust me I’ve been there, where leaving the Operating Room in the midst of a case to use the bathroom wasn’t an option. Our bodies will adjust as we adjust to more fluid intake, and avoiding drinks or additives that promote diuresis will lower the bathroom frequency.
This might be a good segue way into better understanding what dehydration might feel and look like in these scenarios where we don’t achieve adequate hydration regularly and what the potential long-term effects of sustained dehydration does to your body, health, and wellbeing

Besides the changes in color and smell to your urine as previously aforementioned, dehydration can affect and manifest in other symptoms that you may not readily recognize. Some of the more common symptoms include headache, muscle cramps, tiredness, etc. These in itself can ruin a day of being able to focus and be productive. Furthermore, symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, weakness, malaise, lightheadedness, dry mouth, low blood pressure, loss of appetite except for sugar cravings, just to name a few, can all be signs of dehydration.
It’s important to recognize these signs and symptoms of dehydration so that we can take the necessary steps to rehydrate our bodies. Ignoring the signals can lead to more severe consequences and long-term effects on our overall health and well-being.

One of the significant impacts of sustained dehydration is its effect on cognitive function. Studies have shown that even mild dehydration can impair cognitive performance, including attention, memory, and mood. When we don’t provide our bodies with enough water, it can affect our ability to think clearly, concentrate, and make decisions effectively. So, staying properly hydrated is not only crucial for our physical health but also for maintaining optimal mental performance.
Dehydration can also have negative effects on our cardiovascular system. When we are dehydrated, our blood volume decreases, which makes it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently. This can lead to increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure, and reduced oxygen supply to the muscles and organs. Over time, chronic dehydration can put strain on the cardiovascular system and increase the risk of developing conditions such as hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Furthermore, dehydration can have a significant impact on our digestive system. Insufficient water intake can contribute to constipation, as water helps soften the stool and facilitate its passage through the intestines. When we don’t drink enough water, our body tries to conserve water, resulting in drier and harder stools. This can lead to discomfort and gastrointestinal issues, affecting our overall digestive health.
In addition to these immediate effects, chronic dehydration can have long-term consequences for our kidneys. Our kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste products from the blood and maintaining fluid balance in the body. When we are consistently dehydrated, it puts additional stress on the kidneys and reduces their ability to function optimally. Over time, this can increase the risk of developing kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and even kidney damage.
Another aspect to consider is the impact of dehydration on our skin health. Water is essential for maintaining the elasticity and moisture of our skin. When we are dehydrated, our skin can become dry, flaky, and lose its natural glow. In the long run, chronic dehydration can contribute to premature aging, fine lines, and wrinkles. Therefore, staying hydrated is not only beneficial for our internal organs but also for maintaining healthy and vibrant skin.

It’s clear that dehydration goes beyond simple thirst and can have far-reaching effects on our bodies, health, and overall well-being. To ensure we stay adequately hydrated, it’s important to develop healthy hydration habits and overcome the barriers that may hinder our water intake.
Remember, the ideal amount of water you need may vary depending on various factors such as age, gender, activity level, and environmental conditions. However, a good rule of thumb is to aim for a daily water intake of approximately 3.7 liters for adult men and 2.7 liters for adult women, which meets the needs of the majority of individuals under normal conditions. However, factors like strenuous physical exercise, heat stress, and certain medical conditions may increase your water requirements.
To gauge your individual state of hydration, you can monitor the color and odor of your urine as a simple indicator. If your urine is pale yellow or clear with a subtle smell, it’s a good sign that you’re well-hydrated. Darker-colored urine and a strong odor indicate that you need to increase your fluid intake. Keep in mind medications you may be taking, as well, what foods or drinks you may have consumed that day as it may provide a false indication of hydration as it relates to urine color and odor.
Overcoming barriers to adequate hydration requires conscious effort and a few lifestyle adjustments. If you find plain water unappealing, try infusing it with slices of lemon, orange, cucumber, or fresh strawberries to add natural flavor without additional sugars or caffeine. Carbonated water can also be a refreshing alternative, but be cautious of added sweeteners, caffeine, or sodium content. Investing in a dedicated water bottle and setting reminders to take frequent sips throughout the day can help you maintain consistent hydration.

Chasing Hydration
While it’s understandable that busy schedules and frequent restroom breaks can be challenging, remember that your body will adapt to increased fluid intake, and the frequency of restroom visits will likely decrease. The benefits of maintaining proper hydration, including improved cognitive function, cardiovascular health, digestion, kidney function, and skin health, far outweigh the inconveniences.
Dehydration is not a trivial matter. It can have significant short-term and long-term effects on our health and well-being. By understanding the barriers to hydration, recognizing the signs of dehydration, and making conscious efforts to prioritize adequate fluid intake, we can take control of our hydration levels and reap the benefits of a well-hydrated body. So, let’s make hydration a priority in our daily lives and ensure that we “walk the walk” when it comes to maintaining good hydration practices for our overall health and well-being.
Stay tuned for my next adventure into Wellness, until then…
Aloha a hui hou!!
Keonemana

Chasing Hydration
Check out our other articles you can find on our Blog:
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
- Aronson’s Family Dental and Biological Dentistry – A Journey into Wellness, Part 2
- Reset Medical Solutions with Brenna Galves “Educate, Empower, and Evolve” – A Journey into Wellness, Part 3
- “Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson – A Journey into Wellness, Part 4
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 5 – Hydration essential to Weight Loss, Wellness, and Health Support
- Published in Pure Drip Blog
A Journey into Wellness, Part 5 – Hydration essential to Weight Loss, Wellness, and Health Support
Hydration Essential for Weight Loss Wellness and Health.
Aloha,
I am so grateful for the rain we had over the last several weeks, but very thankful the clouds have opened on occasion to let us dry out for a moment and enjoy the summer weather. It is amazing to see everything so green!

I apologize we took a hiatus in our article posting for the month of June. As we enter into the Spring and Summer months, our trusted partners, and here at Pure Drip, tend to get busier. We will return this fall taking a dive back into exploring the Health and Wellness opportunities our partners offer for you, and the community to support your Selfcare Journey.
This month I wanted to talk about Hydration and its key role in Weight Loss, Wellness, and your Health. As I continue down my personal Journey of what Selfcare, Wellness, and Health really means to me, one of my biggest struggles I tend to focus on is my weight. I know I am not alone in this, and it tends to be more of an internal struggle. With so much content in the news today and hype about weight loss medications like Ozempic, Metformin, even Berberine. I tend to whimsically hope there is a magic pill or shot that I could shed 40 lbs. in no time flat.
We tend to forget, or ignore in my case, that there are so many factors which play critical roles when it comes to losing weight. Things like our personal body type, metabolism, genetics, nutrition, motivation, stress, even esteem, just to name a few of the variables that directly affect our weight loss goals. In this month’s article I want to focus on Hydration and its vital function on supporting weight loss, health, and wellness. It is also vital as we head into the hotter months, as well living at such a high altitude and arid climate here in Colorado.
After some focused research there are several common topics that are discussed regarding proper hydration and weight loss and health. Let’s talk about the most common of them.
- Water is a natural appetite suppressant;
- Drinking water can stimulate the metabolic process;
- The right hydration can decrease calorie intake;
- Proper hydration is essential in your workout routine;
- Good hydration supports the bodies elimination of systemic wastes;
- Hydration is a key component in the body’s cycle of lipolysis (the breakdown of fats and other lipids by hydrolysis);

Water is a natural appetite suppressant
Water naturally suppresses your appetite! There are two main biological functions that occur here, the first is how our bodies interpret thirst vs. hunger, and the second is the physiological baroreceptors that line our stomachs.
Our perception of feeling hungry may also be the very same indication that our bodies are actually telling us that we are dehydrated and are in need of fluids instead of food. We often resort to foods, snacks, and/or some sense of caloric intake to satisfy this feeling instead of drinking water. When the first feelings of hunger arise, starting with a glass of water will meet the need of hydration, decrease calorie intake, aid in the process of digestion, and support the feeling of fullness and satiation of feeling hungry. Keep in mind that the feeling of fullness when drinking water may not last as long as food intake because water is more quickly absorbed.
Our bodies physiology is so amazing, when our stomach is filled and stretched, whether it be with food or water, it activates baroreceptors (stretch receptors) in the stomach. This notifies the brain that the stomach is filled with something which we interpret as being full.
People who drank two glasses of water immediately before a meal in a small 2016 study ate 22% less than those who didn’t drink any water prior to eating. About two cups should fill your stomach enough for your brain to register fullness.
Studies of older adults have shown that drinking water before each meal may increase weight loss by 2 kg (4.4 lbs) over a 12-week period. In one study, middle-aged overweight and obese participants who drank water before each meal lost 44% more weight, compared to a group that did not drink more water.
Another study also showed that drinking water before breakfast reduced the amount of calories consumed during the meal by 13%. Although this may be very beneficial for middle-aged and older people, studies of younger individuals have not shown the same impressive reduction in calorie intake.
In a 2014 study, 50 overweight females drank 500 milliliters (mL) of water 30 minutes before breakfast, lunch, and dinner, in addition to their regular water consumption, for 8 consecutive weeks. The participants experienced a reduction in body weight, body fat, and body mass index. They also reported appetite suppression.
One study – conducted by researchers at Virginia Tech – found that those who drank about 2 cups of water before a meal were able to lose 5 lbs more than a group of people who followed a similar meal plan, but didn’t drink water before eating.
Drinking can stimulate the metabolic process

Something really interesting that most people may not consider is a term called “Resting Energy Expenditure” (REE). As it sounds, this is the amount of energy your body uses during your resting state, when you’re “chilling out” and not engaging in any activity. Everybody’s REE is different but we all have a baseline REE.
Drinking water helps to increase our REE by thermogenesis. When the water we drink is cold our body needs to warm itself. Thermogenesis is a fancy term for heat production, drinking cold water lowers our core temperature and our body automatically starts the process of producing heat to regulate our core temp to its homeostatic state. This process of thermogenesis requires more energy than our baseline REE produces, which in turn increases our baseline metabolism.
In an eight-week study published in 2013, when 50 females with excess weight drank about two cups of water half an hour before breakfast, lunch, and dinner without any additional dietary changes, they lost weight and saw reductions in body mass index and body composition scores.
Specifically, drinking about two cups of 71°F water led to a 30% average increase in the metabolic rates of 14 healthy adults in a small 2003 study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.
In adults, resting energy expenditure has been shown to increase by 24–30% within 10 minutes of drinking water. This lasts at least 60 minutes. Supporting this, one study of overweight and obese children found a 25% increase in resting energy expenditure after drinking cold water.
A study of overweight women examined the effects of increasing water intake to over 1 liter (34 oz) per day. They found that over a 12-month period, this resulted in an extra 2 kg (4.4 lbs) of weight loss. Since these women didn’t make any lifestyle changes except to drink more water, these results are very impressive. Additionally, both of these studies indicate that drinking 0.5 liters (17 oz) of water results in an extra 23 calories burned.
On a yearly basis, that sums up to roughly 17,000 calories — or over 2 kg (4.4 lbs) of fat. Several other studies have monitored overweight people who drank 1-1.5 liters (34–50 oz) of water daily for a few weeks. They found a significant reduction in weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and body fat. These results may be even more impressive when the water is cold. When you drink cold water, your body uses extra calories to warm the water up to body temperature.
To be realistic, this process alone will not provide significant weight loss, though it will aid in your journey of weight loss with other adjuncts as well as support your hydration while doing so.
The right hydration can decrease calorie intake
Drinking water helps reduce your overall caloric liquid intake, because water contains no calories. Alternatives such as soda, juice, sweetened tea or coffee add to your caloric intake. Most people ignore how many calories they consume in sports drinks or alcoholic beverages, though if you can replace even a few high-calorie drinks each day with water, it may have long-term weight loss benefits.
Overweight and obese women who replaced diet beverages with water after their main meal showed greater weight reduction during a weight-loss program in a 2015 study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Observational studies have shown that people who drink mostly water have up to a 9% (or 200 calories) lower calorie intake, on average. Drinking water may also help prevent long-term weight gain. In general, the average person gains about 1.45 kg (3.2 lbs) every 4 years. This amount may be reduced by:

– Adding 1 cup of water: Increasing your daily water consumption by 1 cup may reduce this weight gain by 0.13 kg (0.23 lbs).
– Replacing other drinks with water: Substituting a serving of a sugar-sweetened beverage with 1 cup of water may reduce the 4-year weight gain by 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs).
It is especially important to encourage children to drink water, as it can help prevent them from becoming overweight or obese. A recent, school-based study aimed to reduce obesity rates by encouraging children to drink water. They installed water fountains in 17 schools and provided classroom lessons about water consumption for 2nd and 3rd graders. After one school year, the risk of obesity had been reduced by a whopping 31% in the schools where water intake was increased.
Authors of a 2012 study found that replacing two or more high-caloric beverages for non-caloric drinks every day for 6 months resulted in an average weight loss of between 2 and 2.5 percent in a group of females with obesity. In a study from 2015, female participants drank 250 mL of water after lunch each day while attending a 24-week weight loss program. They lost 13.6 percent more weight than women in the same program who drank the same volume of diet beverages after lunch.
Proper hydration is essential in your workout routine
This might be intrinsically obvious but an important one to touch upon. Water is essential to the body especially during exercise. It assists in dissolving electrolytes and minerals (which include sodium, potassium, magnesium, etc.), and distributes them throughout the body. These essential components help with nerve conductivity, muscle contractions required for movement, thermoregulation, among many other important physiological functions.

We also sweat during heavy activity/exercise which contributes to additional fluid loss and cellular dehydration. Sweating is important! It is our body’s way to regulate body temperature. If we fail to properly pre-hydrate before a workout, replenish our fluid loss during or after a workout, this can result in both muscle cramping, fatigue, and possible heat exhaustion. A good self check to your hydration level is the color and smell of your urine. Check out Episode 2 of “Between Two IV’s”, we discuss what components to look for when it comes to your level of hydration and what factors can affect this.
Good hydration supports the bodies elimination of systemic wastes
As you may know, water is key in waste removal. Being well hydrated promotes the production of urine as well as assists in proper bowel movements. If you are dehydrated, your urine production is low, the color is dark, and often has a strong smell. It also can cause constipation and difficulty passing stool. Proper hydration helps in the normal function in our kidneys and decreases/prevents the formation of kidney stones. Drinking water also helps replenish fluids and recover from digestive issues such as diarrhea and indigestion.
Good hydration is also important for eliminating cellular wastes. We are made up of 60% water. 40% of that water lies in the extracellular and intracellular spaces. When our cells are working, which is 100% of the time, they produce cellular waste. Having good hydration helps to support how the body moves that waste from inside the cell to outside of the cell, transporting cellular waste through the extracellular matrix and out to our lymphatic system, kidneys, or through our stool. This concept is highlighted in our earlier article, known as “Homotoxicology”.
Hydration Essential for Weight Loss Wellness and Health.
“Homotoxicology is based on the principle that diseases are caused by homotoxins. According to Dr. Hans-Heinrich Reckeweg (founder of Homotoxicology), illnesses are agent-determined reactive processes in which homotoxins can cause the body to react with inflammation. He described a homotoxin as “any substance that creates a direct or indirect toxic burden in the human organism.” The target structure of the homotoxin is the extracellular matrix. The extracellular matrix or space acts as a molecular sieve between the capillary system, the lymph vessels, and the cells which are to be supplied with nutrients or have their waste removed. All substances and information reaching a cell are filtered through the molecular sieve of the extracellular matrix (ground substance). The sieve can become clogged, but can be restored to functionality through appropriate detoxification measures.”
Hydration Essential for Weight Loss Wellness and Health.
Hydration is a key component in the body’s cycle of lipolysis (the breakdown of fats and other lipids by hydrolysis)
Without water, the body cannot properly metabolize stored fat or carbohydrates. The process of metabolizing fat is called lipolysis. The first step of this process is hydrolysis, which occurs when water molecules interact with triglycerides (fats) to create glycerol and fatty acids. Drinking enough water is essential for burning off fat from food and drink, as well as stored fat. A mini-review from 2016 found that increased water intake led to increased lipolysis and a loss of fat in animal studies.
Hydration Essential for Weight Loss Wellness and Health.
In conclusion, there is just so much that proper hydration benefits us, in our health, weight loss, and daily wellbeing. From the microscopic cellular level to how we feel in every moment throughout the day. I know at times drinking plain water can be a challenge for some, though if there is anything you may take away from this article, it is that in your journey of weight loss, wellness, and self care don’t forget to water yourself. Just like plants need it to grow, being made up of 60% water, not only is it essential, Water is truly life!


Stay tuned for my next adventure into Wellness, until then…
Aloha a hui hou!!
Keonemana
Hydration Essential for Weight Loss Wellness and Health.
References
- https://hub.jhu.edu/at-work/2020/01/15/focus-on-wellness-drinking-more-water/#:~:text=Science%20suggests%20that%20water%20can,to%20results%20on%20the%20 scale.
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/drinking-water-helps-with-weight-loss
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322296
- https://yourwellnesscenter.com/blog/5-proven-ways-hydration-is-key-for-weight-loss/
- https://www.menshealth.com/weight-loss/a33621779/drinking-water-weight-loss/
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- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24684853
- https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/88/12/6015/2661518
- https://yourwellnesscenter.com/blog/types-of-metabolism-understanding-your-metabolic-type/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/resting-energy-expenditure#:~:text=Resting%20energy%20expenditure%20(REE)%20represents%20energy%20expenditure%20while%20a%20person,consumed%2Fhour%20in%20healthy%20adults.
- https://plushcare.com/authors/linda-anegawa-md-facp/
- https://plushcare.com/?utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=PlushCare&utm_term=plushcare&campaignid=132481758&adgroupid=3637463446&adid&msclkid=13ea4876d6a312a99a7029b5763415dd
- https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/102/6/1305/4555169
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25928232
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20646222
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25746935
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16421349
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20796216
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23318721
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/13-ways-sugary-soda-is-bad-for-you
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19336356
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23803882
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270202.php
- https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/95/3/555/4578292
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/info/obesity/how-much-should-i-weigh.php
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3628978/
- https://yourwellnesscenter.com/blog/body-composition/
- https://puredripiv.com/2023/03/30/between-two-ivs-episode-2/
- https://www.kidney.org/newsletter/can-dehydration-affect-your-kidneys
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/153363.php
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/150322.php
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/158634.php
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/163484.php
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/nutrition
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4901052/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/161547.php
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/306638
Hydration Essential for Weight Loss Wellness and Health.
Check out our other articles you can find on our Blog:
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
- Aronson’s Family Dental and Biological Dentistry – A Journey into Wellness, Part 2
- Reset Medical Solutions with Brenna Galves “Educate, Empower, and Evolve” – A Journey into Wellness, Part 3
- “Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson – A Journey into Wellness, Part 4
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 6 – Chasing Hydration
- Published in Pure Drip Blog
“Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson – A Journey into Wellness, Part 4
“Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson mission to
So far I must say this has been an incredible learning experience and I’m only on my 4th article about Health and Wellness! With so much more to discover, I’m excited to share with you my latest interview with Mrs. Sarah Thompson who founded “Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” back in 2012. Sacred Vessel and Pure Drip IV Health and Wellness have been trusted partners since 2019!
Mrs. Thompson has been in practice for over 20 years, with her passions being a mission to educate women throughout pregnancy and labor, with an emphasis in dedicating her practice to those with complicated fertility and pregnancy conditions. She has worked directly in the fields of Pain Management, Obstetrics & Gynecology, advanced studies in both Functional Medicine and Acupuncture, and had been a doula for over 14 years.

We have been trusted partners with Mrs. Thompson for over 3 years and it has been such a pleasure to work with her to help her clients on their Journey of Wellness. It was so captivating talking with Mrs. Thompson. She has such a deep and thorough knowledge of the physiological processes throughout the phases of pregnancy. Some how, she is able to explain the most complex concepts that occur through all phases of preconception, fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum making them totally understandable.
“The Functional Medicine model is an individualized, patient-centered, science-based approach that empowers patients and practitioners to work together to address the underlying causes of disease and promote optimal wellness. It requires a detailed understanding of each patient’s genetic, biochemical, and lifestyle factors and leverages that data to direct personalized treatment plans that lead to improved patient outcomes.”

Remember that not all Functional Medicine Practitioners are the same, make sure your practitioner is “Certified”, meaning they have passed rigorous training and testing to practice Functional Medicine.
When I initially walked into Mrs. Thompson’s office for our interview, it was really fascinating to hear that she was reviewing a long genetic makeup report for one of her clients to understand what might possibly be a barrier to their fertility and how to best support them to a successful pregnancy. Oftentimes conversations around challenging fertility are tough and deeply emotional, especially when the news is not the most ideal. Reviewing both the health, medical history, and lifestyles of the mother and father to help support best outcomes is her goal.
Hearing her talk about the importance of really focusing on the “Sacred Vessel” the “Mother” and their continuously changing and developing nutritional and physiological needs during pregnancy felt like a profoundly different shift in focus than just focusing on the developing baby. Oftentimes we hear more about how the fetal baby is developing, if they’re on the right timeline, caudal to cephalad measurements, fetal heartbeat, sex of the fetus, etc. With the maternal plan of care being developed around the developing baby, not the other way around, where caring for the mother is the primary focus which will intrinsically provide all her growing baby needs.

Let’s listen to how Mrs. Thompson explains the importance of focusing on the “Sacred Vessel” first to best support the pregnancy and developing baby.
“Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson mission to
There are several services that “Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” provides. As aforementioned, there’s a predominant focus on fertility, conception, pregnancy, postpartum, but also acupuncture, Functional Medicine, Women’s Health in general, pain management and injury, and Doula services. She currently provides virtual care for clients internationally as well, and has written the book on Functional Maternity, integrating Functional Medicine and Pregnancy!!
Thompson, S. (2021). Functional maternity: Using functional medicine and nutrition to improve pregnancy and childbirth outcomes. Modern Wisdom Press.
ISBN: 978-1-951692-16-2

Mrs. Thompson offers a free 15 minute phone consultation to try and understand what each client might be challenged with, what the client may have already attempted or done, and help provide understanding if she would be able to help them succeed through their current health and maternity journey.
I highly recommend reaching out to Mrs. Sarah Thompson to see if she can help you!
“Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson mission to
Sacred Vessel Acupuncture
Sarah Thompson, CFMP, L.Ac., Doula
2001 S. Shields St. Bldg H – 101, Fort Collins, CO 80526
(970) 631-8119 info@sacredvesselacupuncture.com
www.sacredvesselacupuncture.com
“Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson mission to
Stay tuned for my next adventure into Wellness, until then…
Aloha a hui hou!!
Keonemana

“Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson mission to
Check out our other articles you can find on our Blog:
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
- Aronson’s Family Dental and Biological Dentistry – A Journey into Wellness, Part 2
- Reset Medical Solutions with Brenna Galves “Educate, Empower, and Evolve” – A Journey into Wellness, Part 3
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 5 – Hydration essential to Weight Loss, Wellness, and Health Support
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 6 – Chasing Hydration
- Published in Partners, Pure Drip Blog
Reset Medical Solutions with Brenna Galves “Educate, Empower, and Evolve” – A Journey into Wellness, Part 3
Educate Empower and Evolve
Spring is in the air!!! I am so ready and excited for the change into Spring. I can hear the birds starting up in the morning, it has been getting warmer to get out and be active, and it is a good time for change, a catalyst to focus on internal and external changes to benefit our personal Wellness and Health goals. Working on becoming the best versions of ourselves.
I had the wonderful opportunity recently to meet with one of our newest partners, and I am really excited to share with you about Ms. Brenna Galves who owns and operates Reset Medical Solutions. I hope I can do justice to the palpable passion you can feel when she shares her vision, expertise, and ambition to Educate, Empower, and Evolve her clients and the community into better Health and Wellness.

Ms. Galves was originally driven to become a Nurse. Born and raised in San Diego, CA she also had an abundant community filled with alternative sources of health and wellness. “My mom would take me to herbal shops before antibiotics”, she mentioned. When asked what she wanted to do in the hospital as a nurse she would convey to her family and peers that, “I want to be on a floor that would help people heal.” Though she knew that healing wasn’t always the case in the hospital setting.
When she realized that the path of a nurse in that setting would not give her the satisfaction of her driven mission to heal the world, the opportunity arose for her to attend an Acupuncture school in San Diego, where some of the best Acupuncture Schools are located. She received her Associates Degree then quickly dived right into her Masters Degree where she was not only educated in acupuncture, but intensively learning over 350+ individual herbal medicines, compounding herbal remedies, Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Acupressure, Cupping, Reiki, Lymphatic Activation, “Tui Na” Massage, and integration of sound in healing to touch on a few.
Eight years later her passions still remain the same, if not more galvanized by our current system of health care. Where there exists a fundamental problem in our current healthcare system that treats symptoms with a lot of patients finding themselves on a life long regiment of prescription medications, often not being reevaluated throughout their lifespan on necessity or the possibility of alternatives that may have fewer side effects on the body’s systems as a whole.
Ms. Galves expresses, “My spirit is irritated, you come as a helper to help people, and you see what we’re being offered (health care options) and it’s irritating. My spirit is irritated because I know that there’s better for people, and it’s just gotten so chaotic now we all can’t ignore it. Being an advocate for people… and truly talking about preventative medicine with them, is when we will truly see change.”
Ms. Galves is not against western medicine at all, she conveys “Western medicine has done an amazing job in a certain capacity… though there needs to be an understanding of when and where each is needed”. Ms. Galves actually loves collaborating with Physicians, most of whom she works with see the need for true preventative medicine for their mutual clients.

For example some of that collaborative work is to help clients get off of long term prescription medication and to lessen those side effects that accompany that medication regimen. She talks about the importance of this kind of collaboration to uniquely meet the needs of her clients and balancing the right time and place for both Western and Traditional Medicine.
A lot of the clients that walk through her door feel powerless, her goal, her mission, is to meet them where they are at, to best understand what they need, and Educate, Empower, and Evolve their personal health and wellness giving them advocacy and agency. She calls it the three “E’s”
“Educate, Empower, and Evolve”
- Educate her clients and the community, on the Traditional and Scientific approach to discovering true Health and Wellness.
- Empower clients with options to their care, in the amazingness of their body, understanding that there can be alternatives to a lifetime of prescription medications or only being told that surgery, or enduring chronic pain is their only option, to have a voice and say in their Health and Wellness.
- Evolving of personal health and wellness on an individual level as well as a systems approach to community and societal Health Care as a whole.
The interesting part of this model is it is always in motion, once a client feels that their health has Evolved the cycle may return to Educate or Empower to further advance a clients personal health goals or in the development of new goals.

Part of her education is what she describes as “Tradition meets Science” listen to how she describes this kind of integration:
A Traditional approach to Health and Wellness is supporting the body’s natural pathways and immune response systems to correct imbalances occurring in the physiology of the body. It is understanding the science and the physiological body processes, identifying possible dysfunction and/or dysregulation and how to naturally support the body’s own ability to correct those internal pathways naturally and flourish to its homeostatic natural state. Seeking to understand the root cause of a client’s alignments and correcting that, instead of just focusing on relieving symptoms while still enduring the underlying dysfunction. With the use of natural dietary recommendations, lifestyle adjustments, herbology to replenish essential nutrients, proteins, amino acids, minerals, etc. along with other modalities like lymphatic drainage, cupping, and acupuncture to be able to get to the root of each clients’ unique needs.
A new client experience is a balance between a thorough 90 minute intake assessment through consultation, a thorough health history, and client’s personal perceptions about their health. Ms. Galves then assesses what their body is actually saying through a thorough physical assessment to better understand what parallels between the two assessments as well as what the objective signs that the body is conveying that hadn’t been indicated during the verbal and written consultation portion of a new client assessment. Some of her most helpful intake questions are:
- In your opinion what has happened to your health?
- When was the last time in your life that you felt 100% with your health?
- What are your top 3 health care goals in the next year?
These questions are her most helpful in being able to meet clients where they’re at in their self-care and wellness journey. These questions are continually readdressed, not only on the initial intake assessment but are reevaluated during every appointment to ensure the client’s goals are guiding the direction of care.
At Reset Medical Solutions, based on the aforementioned assessments, clients may be recommended for a variety of treatment options or an integration of several, some of those include Acupuncture; Reiki; Cupping; Herbology; An integration of Acupuncture, Message, and “Tui Na” Soft Tissue work; Whole Body Cosmetic Wellness; Lymphatic Activation; Sound Bathing; and Health Coaching to name a few.

She conveys that she doesn’t want to overload herself, and through this eight (8) year journey so far, she continually receives abundance and signs in the fruition of her mission and goals. This seems to be what continues to propel her to heights not often taken on by small business owners. What felt like a title wave of complex endeavors ahead, she talks about her goals with a calmness and excitement that was felt across the room. It’s as if her internal compass has always pointed to True North and she listened, even in the toughest parts of her journey.
Locally, Ms. Glaves plans to expand her clinical treatment space, doubling it in size, adding some group work sessions, integrating a Registered Nurse Licensed Clinical Nutritionist in her practice, and is also hosting a health fair coming up in Johnstown, CO in May 2023.
She is looking to grow her connections with local community partners, establishing an integrative health network among like-minded community health providers, physicians, and the Chamber of Commerce, and with this network her biggest goal is the creation of an Integrative Hospital here in Northern Colorado.

Ms. Galves has also been presented the opportunity to be on a non-profit board for medicine, and through that connection she is opening up a satellite Clinic and Wellness Center in the mountains of southern CO near Monument Lake off the Legends Hwy, 30min into the mountains from Trinidad, CO.
She is also working on putting together a 3 day wellness festival there, bringing together providers and professionals from all over the nation, along with the community, speakers and experts in the field of Traditional Medicine, Integrative Care, Health and Wellness, all with the goal to come together to share on best practices so that this collaborative knowledge and expertise can be brought back to their own communities to help Educate, Empower, and Evolve!
We’re excited to have Reset Medical Solutions as a trusted partner with Pure Drip IV Health and Wellness, and recommend, if you’re on a journey of self-care, health, and wellness, to take a moment and check her out!
Reset Medical Solutions 2038 Vermont Dr. Unit 207, Fort Collins, CO 80525 info@resetmedicalsolutions.com (970) 889-0521
Stay tuned for my next adventure into Wellness, until then…
Aloha a hui hou!!
Keonemana

Educate Empower and Evolve
Check out our other articles you can find on our Blog:
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
- Aronson’s Family Dental and Biological Dentistry – A Journey into Wellness, Part 2
- “Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson – A Journey into Wellness, Part 4
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 5 – Hydration essential to Weight Loss, Wellness, and Health Support
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 6 – Chasing Hydration
- Published in Partners, Pure Drip Blog
Aronson’s Family Dental (Now “Alive Dental”)and Biological Dentistry – A Journey into Wellness, Part 2
Biological Dentistry: seek the safest least toxic way to treatment.
ALOHA! ~
As I continue down this road of discovering my personal Wellness and Health Goals, one of the health focused areas I personally take to heart is good dental health.
We often don’t realize how our dental health is so closely integrated with our total body health and what systemic effects it can have from our Heart Health, Endocrine System, to our Respiratory Function, Chronic Systemic Inflammation, and so much more!
www.agd.org/docs/default-source/self-instruction-(gendent)/gendent_nd17_aafp_kane.pdf
One of the most recent reviews I’ve done is on “Biological Dentistry”. Sure, I know what you might be thinking, isn’t dentistry biological anyway? What’s the difference from my current dentist to someone who practices Biological Dentistry?

“Biological dentistry, is not an attempt to stake out a new specialty for dentistry but rather to describe a philosophy that can apply to all facets of dental practice and to health care in general: Always seek the safest, least toxic way to accomplish the mission of treatment, all the goals of modern dentistry, and do it while treading as lightly as possible on the patient’s biological terrain. A more biocompatible approach to oral health is the hallmark of biological dentistry.”
iaomt.org/intro-articles-biological-dentistry/
The more I’ve looked into it, Biological Dentistry is a specific approach to how care is planned for each client and the fundamentals on how dentistry is approached. It could be from eliminating metal fillings and replacing them with a more biocompatible material to recommendations to help the body’s natural pathways support good dental hygiene and immune support. The goal is to support the body’s natural processes of detoxifying and eliminating toxins, as well as support our body’s healing capabilities in the least invasive way to accomplish each patient’s dental health and goals.
To get a little science’y, it would be good to understand that Biological Dentistry first began in the mid-1980s by Dr. Gary M. Verigin and co-founder Dr. Edward Arana. They had first met at a conference at Shriner’s Children’s Hospital in Honolulu in 1984. During this conference they were first introduced to the study and practice of “German Biological Medicine”.
The fundamentals of German Biological Medicine was rooted in “Homotoxicology”. Here comes the technical biology:
“Homotoxicology is based on the principle that diseases are caused by homotoxins. According to Dr. Hans-Heinrich Reckeweg (founder of Homotoxicology), illnesses are agent-determined reactive processes in which homotoxins can cause the body to react with inflammation. He described a homotoxin as “any substance that creates a direct or indirect toxic burden in the human organism.” The target structure of the homotoxin is the extracellular matrix. The extracellular matrix or space acts as a molecular sieve between the capillary system, the lymph vessels, and the cells which are to be supplied with nutrients or have their waste removed. All substances and information reaching a cell are filtered through the molecular sieve of the extracellular matrix (ground substance). The sieve can become clogged, but can be restored to functionality through appropriate detoxification measures.”

“Homotoxicology represents a unique synthesis of healing disciplines designed to strengthen the organs of detoxification and excretion, to remove the toxins accumulated in the extracellular matrix, to stimulate and modulate the immune system, and to regulate the whole by rebalancing the diseased body system. The methodology of homotoxicology differs from that of conventional medicine in that illness is viewed as much more than the mere presence of clinical symptoms. Homotoxicological therapy approaches the patient as a whole. It attempts to detoxify the body, to correct derailed immunological processes through immunomodulation, and to support cells and organs.”
So, back to Dr. Verigin and Dr. Arana. They wanted to develop a way to apply this “Homotoxicology” to their practice of dentistry and since their methods would parallel German Biological Medicine, the American Academy of Biological Dentistry was born. The organization continues today as the International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine.
iabdm.org/education/articles/why-is-it-called-biological-dentistry-anyway/
www.biologicalmedicineinstitute.com/homotoxicology
One of Pure Drip’s longest trusted partners, who specializes in “Biological Dentistry” is Aronson’s Family Dental!

“We are a state of the art dental office providing health enhancing biological dentistry. Our office is warm and open and was designed with families in mind. Our goal is to provide a positive, comfortable experience, and to make our patients feel heard, validated and at ease. We are a mercury free office and we understand and honor the connection between your oral and systemic health. Our team provides a personalized touch and gentle care to help you keep your smile healthy, functional and vibrant. Let us earn your continued business. We are always accepting new patients.”
Some of the services they offer are:
- Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART)
- BPA Free Composites and Sealants
- Ozone-Oxygen Therapy
- Biocompatibility Testing
- Lightwalker Erbium Laser
- Digital X-Rays
- OralID Oral Cancer Screening
- Alpha-Stim Technology
- Veneers
- KÖR Whitening
- Metal Free Crowns and Bridges

They have a variety of additional services to offer their clients to really meet the personal dental needs of each individual.
One of the other really amazing aspects of Dr. Aronson and her practice is that she is a big proponent of the empowerment of women, supporting female professionals, assisting in their growth and professional development in this field, and also has an all female staff.

Having had the wonderful opportunity to work with Dr. Aronson and her staff, I can’t sing their praises enough for what they do for their patients, their gentle, holistic, and empathetic approach to meet each patient’s unique dental needs.
We have helped to support her patients by providing infusion therapy to a number of her patients that undergo more involved dental procedures where infusion therapy can support the body’s healing and wellbeing of her patient’s recovery.
I would highly recommend taking the opportunity to connect with Aronson’s Family Dental to help you in your dental health and overall wellness.
4027 Boardwalk Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80525
info@aronsonfamilydental.com
(970) 472-0488
https://www.facebook.com/aronsonfamilydental/
https://www.instagram.com/aronsonfamilydental/?hl=en
References:
Stay tuned for my next adventure into Wellness, until then…
Aloha a hui hou!!
Keonemana

Biological Dentistry: seek the safest least toxic way to treatment.
Check out our other articles you can find on our Blog:
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
- Reset Medical Solutions with Brenna Galves “Educate, Empower, and Evolve” – A Journey into Wellness, Part 3
- “Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson – A Journey into Wellness, Part 4
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 5 – Hydration essential to Weight Loss, Wellness, and Health Support
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 6 – Chasing Hydration
- Published in Partners, Pure Drip Blog
A Journey into Wellness, Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
A Journey into Wellness Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
As the veil of the New Year opens its doors to new adventures, opportunities, and experiences, much like a good majority of resolute’ers, I am compelled to attempt to understand my own personal Self-Care and Wellness Journey. Throughout the next several months, I hope to find out what that really means, “Self-Care”, “Wellness”, “Health”, and what that looks like. I look forward to sharing some of my experiences with you.
Sometimes the most challenging part of any journey is figuring out where to start. I am thankful there are so many local businesses geared towards Wellness and taking care of one’s “Self”. Also, there are an array of local trusted Partners with Pure Drip IV Health and Wellness that continually strive to bring Wellness back to the community.
What better place to start than with Lasers!! I had the wonderful opportunity to really connect with the experienced practitioners and a few of their offered services at 212˚ Wellness.
You can check out on their website: https://212wellness.com/
Their address is: 2038 Vermont Dr UNIT 207, Fort Collins, CO 80525
Or connect with them by phone at: (970) 999-5862
As I walked into their beautiful 2nd floor clinical space it felt far from clinical. I was greeted by Chris Hodel, Brittany Cipriano, and Emma Vondruska. Each with their own respective expertise. I was grateful for the opportunity to sit with each of them to better understand what they provide for their clientele and what a typical first time experience looks like for a new client.

To be bold, I will admit I was skeptical before I arrived. I have had previous Laser experience in the Operating Room as a Laser Operator and the Dept.’s Laser Safety Officer. I have a fundamental understanding about medical lasers (CO2, Homiun, YAG) and the foundations of how they work for various procedures and tissue types.
Though I have never worked with Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), which are the types of lasers utilized at 212˚ Wellness, I went in with an open mind to all the knowledge and experience they would share. I have to say I was impressed with the amount of clinical information, experience, medical research, and their ability to convey it in a palatable and understanding way.
We started off our experience with Mr. Chris Hodel. Chris is a wonderful down to earth practitioner who is passionate about what he does and even more so in providing care and recovery for his clients. Chris has 15 years of experience in his field with an array of certifications, and continually seeks education and knowledge to enhance the optimum care he provides. The first thing we engaged in was a head-to-toe assessment of my gait, balance, strength, with both my eyes open and closed. We continued with a series of Reflexology components and further assessment. This was so cool to experience and I appreciated how thorough it was. He explained everything as we went through his assessment which helped to comfort my skepticism and really opened up to the process throughout his assessment.
Typically, a new client will first be assessed by Chis and through his review and findings, he may have a variety of recommendations. From there, he may recommend a combination of services that they offer from Rolfing, PEMF (Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field), or Erchonia FX 405 Laser.
I would be happy to provide a brief definition of Rolfing and PEMF, though I would recommend to anyone to take some time to read up on both. The one thing I really appreciated about 212˚ Wellness is that they are not short of information, content, and studies to back up their processes and procedures. If you ask, they would be happy to provide information to you about what they do and how it effectively works on the body for your Health and Wellness.
Rolfing was first developed by Dr. Ida Pauline Rolf. Side note Dr. Ida P. Rolf has an amazing story and I would recommend checking out the mark she left on the world.
In 1920, Ida Pauline Rolf received her Ph.D. in biochemistry from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University. Despite the resistance she faced as a woman in the field of science, she furthered her knowledge of the body through research in organic chemistry at the Rockefeller Institute.
Driven to find solutions to her own health problems as well as those of her two sons, she spent many years studying and experimenting with different systems of healing and manipulation.
Throughout most of her life she was intrigued with and explored many forms of alternative healing including homeopathy, osteopathy, chiropractic and yoga. The notion that proper alignment, physiologic function and anatomical structure are related is the basis of many of these healing methods.
Dr. Rolf agreed that the body functions best when the bony segments are in proper alignment. She added her observations that lasting improvement in alignment and an overall sense of well-being required a closer look at the effects of gravity on our bodies. She believed that the imbalances in structure placed demands on the body’s pervasive network of soft tissues: muscles, fascia, tendons and ligaments, thereby creating compensations throughout the body structure.
Dr. Rolf posed this fundamental question: “What conditions must be fulfilled in order for the human body-structure to be organized and integrated in gravity so that the whole person can function in the most optimal and economical way?”
Her life’s work was devoted to this investigation which led to the system of soft tissue manipulation and movement education that we now call Rolfing.
https://www.rolf.org/history.php
Chris and I did not do a session of Rolfing during my first time experience, though we ventured on to checkout the PEMF which is also located in the same space as their Erchonia FX 405 Laser (Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT).

Mrs. Emma Vondruska is the primary laser operator for the Erchonia FX 405 Laser and will often manage the PEMF device, though all staff are trained on both. The nice thing is that the PEMF and the Erchonia FX 405 Laser can be run on a set program and once the program starts it can be unattended. During the session you can choose to have the room to yourself, to meditate, deep breathe, listen to a podcast, whatever calls to you. It is very relaxing with soft lighting.
A Journey into Wellness Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
Though if you did not prefer some alone time during your session, Emma will often sit with clients during their session, reviewing and assessing clients ailments and symptoms of concern. Emma has a Holistic Health degree, is a Certified Wellness Coach, and on top of that she is also trained in the art of Reiki Energy Healing.
To provide some brief context for the therapeutic benefits for PEMF or Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field and Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) :
PEMF devices offer a non-drug approach to pain management and a potential decrease of medication use and dependency. There are many pulsed electromagnetic field devices on the market. The devices vary depending on the magnetic field intensity, waveform, and frequency. A great amount of research has been performed using PEMF for different aspects of healing in animal models, as well as clinical treatment of non-healing fractures, tendon tears, chronic ulcers, post-surgical pain, and acute or chronic pain. Unfortunately, there is no strong consensus on specific intensities, frequencies, or waveforms for particular conditions. It has been difficult to establish an agreement because different magnetic fields applied for different medical issues can cause different results (Markov, 2015).
Despite the challenges of research, there are multiple possible benefits of a therapeutic magnetic field application to healing the body (Jerabek and Pawluk, 1996). Studies have shown a decrease in:
– Pain, Swelling, and Inflamation
Magnetic field application studies have also shown to improve:
– Circulation, Cellular Metabolism, & Energy
Proposed mechanisms of PEMF therapy include activation of voltage-gated calcium channels to increase intracellular calcium and nitric oxide release (Pilla, 2015). Nitric oxide promotes blood vessel production and growth, which is helpful in healing injured tissues (Pilla, 2015).
PEMF has been examined in many painful conditions including: acute injury, arthritis and nerve issues. Researchers found improved healing of soft tissue injuries by decreasing swelling and healing hematoma, while low frequency PEMFs improved edema during treatment and high frequency PEMF improved edema up to several hours after the treatment session (Markov and Pilla, 1995).
https://ssihi.uci.edu/tip/pulsed-electromagnetic-field-therapy-a-non-drug-option-for-pain/
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT):
There is a podcast by Dr. Chad Woolner & Dr. Andrew Wells on Spotify called “Laser Light Show” that was recommended to listen to by the staff at 212˚ Wellness. There are about 25 episodes ranging from How LLLT Works, Why Research Matters, to Gut and Dermatological Health with the use of LLLT. Check it out!
“Laser Light Show” with Dr. Chad Woolner & Dr. Andrew Wells.
https://open.spotify.com/show/7BsH2JxOjMP1qEcXAE2ja6
212˚ Wellness also has the option for Handheld Rental Lasers. Their about the size of 5”x7” index card and as thick as 2 decks of cards. Though they pack a powerful Low Level Laser in them and can be utilized in the comfort of your own home. They are from the same technology and company as the Erchonia FX 405 Laser.
A Journey into Wellness Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
As if the aforementioned wasn’t enough great personalized service options offered by 212˚ Wellness, I was introduced to the Zerona Laser by Mrs. Brittany Cipriano. Brittany is the primary laser operator for the Zerona Laser and 212˚ Wellness’s Laser Safety Officer. Brittany is also an Army Veteran with training as a Combat Medic and EMT (Thank you for your service!!), a Licensed Esthetician, Certified Physical Therapy Technician, a Certified Nursing Assistant, and has her degree in Psychology from CSU.

Listening to Brittany describe how she personalizes each session for her clients was fascinating. To provide a small glimpse of what the Zerona laser is used for, it helps to reduce lipids (fat) without cell destruction. The Zerona Laser’s specific wavelength and intensity creates a transitory pore in the Fat Cell’s membrane which allows the lipid inside the fat cell to move into the extracellular space to be transported through the lymphatic system to be disposed of in our poo. The science is kinda cool and there is a good amount of extensive research on this technology and how it works, as well as the benefits of not destroying the fat cells in the process of trying to lose weight.
Though as a side of caution, please do not mistake this kind of high quality laser technology as equivalent to LED lights sold claiming the same results. Trust me I’ve looked, and if this were the case, then LED lights in this wavelength would be the holy grail of weight loss and we’d all have the LED light pads.
Though the amazing thing I kept hearing from Brittany is it’s not all about getting the client under the laser for her, it’s about the whole person. She provides an extensive personalized assessment to first determine the best approach to meet her client’s goals. In her practice she provides testing kits to identify total gut health, identifying allergies and sensitivities that you may not have been aware of. She also is well versed in Lymphatic Drainage which is key to help the body’s natural process to rid itself from toxins, free floating lipids, damaged cells, etc.
In conclusion, I went in skeptical and came out amazed. Their mission and goals are holistically client centered and with their extensive combined knowledge, background, education, and experience I don’t think anyone could go wrong checking them out to see how they can help you on your journey of Healing, Wellness, and Self-Care.
A Journey into Wellness Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
Stay tuned for my next adventure into Wellness, until then…
Aloha a hui hou!!
Keonemana

A Journey into Wellness Part 1: 212˚ Wellness
Check out our other articles you can find on our Blog:
- Aronson’s Family Dental and Biological Dentistry – A Journey into Wellness, Part 2
- Reset Medical Solutions with Brenna Galves “Educate, Empower, and Evolve” – A Journey into Wellness, Part 3
- “Sacred Vessel Acupuncture” with Sarah Thompson – A Journey into Wellness, Part 4
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 5 – Hydration essential to Weight Loss, Wellness, and Health Support
- A Journey into Wellness, Part 6 – Chasing Hydration
- Published in Partners, Pure Drip Blog
What is IV Therapy About, Anyway?
IV therapy, or intravenous therapy, is a medical treatment in which liquid medication, nutrients, or other fluids are administered directly into a patient’s vein through an IV (intravenous) line. This method of administration bypasses the digestive system and allows for a faster and more efficient delivery of the treatment to the body.
One of the main advantages of IV therapy is that it allows for higher doses of medication or nutrients to be administered than would be possible with oral or topical forms of treatment. This can be especially beneficial for patients with severe or chronic conditions, who may not be able to absorb or tolerate the necessary doses through other routes of administration.
Another advantage of IV therapy is that it allows for a more targeted and individualized treatment approach. Depending on the patient’s condition, the IV fluids can be tailored to contain specific medications, vitamins, minerals, or antioxidants that will be most beneficial for them.
IV therapy can also be used for hydration, for example, when a person is severely dehydrated or for nutritional deficiencies, like low levels of vitamins B or C.
There are different types of IV therapy:
- IV Push : medication is injected into the IV line over a short period of time
- IV Infusion: medication is delivered over a longer period of time, through a pump or drip.
- IV Hydration: fluids such as water, electrolytes, and nutrients are delivered to the patient through an IV line.
There are also different types of IV catheters and routes of administration. Some of the most common include peripheral IV catheters, which are inserted into a vein in the arm or hand, and central venous catheters, which are inserted into a larger vein in the neck, chest, or groin.
While IV therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated, it does carry some risks, such as infection, bleeding, or damage to the vein. At Pure Drip IV Health & Wellness, the service is always administered by a licensed healthcare professional.
In conclusion, IV therapy is an effective and efficient method of administering medication and nutrients directly into the bloodstream. It can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, from hydration to chronic disease. Always make sure to consult your healthcare provider to see if IV therapy is the right option for you.
- Published in Pure Drip Blog
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