Cognitive and Physical Decline Don’t Have to Be an Inevitability of Aging

Cognitive and Physical Decline Don’t Have to Be an Inevitability of Aging

The aging process can be overwhelming for many of us, and it’s normal to feel a little down when we think about all the changes that come with it. However, it’s important to retain perspective and keep in mind that aging is a natural part of life and not something to feel sad about. 

In recent years, remarkable advances in age-related technologies have made it possible to improve physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being as we age. The fact that the number of older adults is expected to double to 1.6 billion within 30 years is encouraging news, especially for seniors, according to a report by the McKinsey Health Institute. However, even though life expectancy has increased massively since the 1960s, the McKinsey report highlights that many people will spend many of those extra years in a state of relatively poor health. 

Thankfully, advancements in medicine are helping to redefine both lifespan and healthspan.

Healthspan is the number of years that we live an active, healthy, illness-free life. This is the thing that most of us are concerned with as we strive to live our lives fully and with as few health issues as possible. 

Remember, aging is a natural part of life, but by adopting positive habits and healthy daily routines, we can all enjoy a high quality of life, even as we enter those senior years. Taking care of ourselves, sleeping right, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly are all key when it comes to enhancing healthspan and delaying cognitive decline.

Elevate Body & Mind: 8 Simple Ways How to Improve Brain Function

1. Eat right

Making smart food choices by incorporating a variety of nutritious foods is foundational to healthy aging. A diet high in fiber and low in saturated fat that incorporates fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and fish will help provide the nutrition needed to lower the risk of developing age-related chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. To get enough protein throughout the day and maintain muscle, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) recommends adding seafood, dairy, or fortified soy products along with beans, peas, and lentils to meals.

The NIA also advises seniors to drink plenty of water throughout the day to help stay hydrated and aid in the digestion of food and absorption of nutrients. 

2. Get moving

Physical activity is important for keeping muscles, bones and joints healthy and increasing flexibility.

As we age, we lose muscle mass. According to the NIA’s Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA), muscle mass and strength typically increase steadily from birth and reach their peak at around 30 to 35 years of age. The BLSA found that after that, “muscle power and performance decline slowly and linearly at first, and then faster after age 65 for women and 70 for men.”

Regular exercise can help older adults increase muscle strength, maintain a healthy weight and improve mobility and balance which can help avoid chronic health problems and reduce the risk of falls. The CDC recommends that adults 65 and older do at least 150 minutes a week (for example, 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week) of moderate intensity activity such as brisk walking or 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity such as hiking, jogging, or running. At least two days a week of activities that strengthen muscles, working all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms) is also recommended. Good forms of muscle strengthening exercises for seniors include water aerobics, resistance band workouts and body weight workouts. 

3. Manage stress

Managing your stress levels is also critical to healthy aging. That’s because high levels of stress releases hormones like cortisol, which can increase the risk of anxiety, depression, heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure and stroke, as well as induce sleep problems and memory and concentration impairment.

Adopting stress-reducing habits such as reading a book, doing yoga or tai-chi or mindful meditation can mitigate stress and promote healthy relaxation.

4. Get good sleep

Good sleep is vital for helping adults live longer and stay healthy. Some of the impacts of poor sleep include a decrease in attention and concentration and lack of energy. Research also found that poor sleep is associated with greater Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers in cognitively healthy adults at risk for the disease. 

The National Sleep Foundation recommends that people 65 years and older get seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Older adults can get better sleep by avoiding large meals before bed, having a sleep routine (going to bed at the same time each night and getting up at the same time each morning), keeping the bedroom dark (turning off the TV and all electronic devices), and practicing a relaxing pre-sleep routine.

Getting sufficient sleep helps the brain, and body recover from the day’s exertions and reduces the risk of developing disorders and diseases such as obesity, dementia, heart disease, and stroke.

5. Invest in Social Engagement

Social interaction has been proven time and again to have a significant influence on physical and cognitive health, particularly in older adults. Numerous studies have shown that there are many ways in which being socially active improves and, in some cases, reverses physical and cognitive decline. Having a good social life means keeping the brain sharp and active, also aiding in concentration, focus, and memory recall.

Social interaction is physically influential as it reduces stress, alleviates loneliness, and promotes healthy habits that are good for the future, especially in health agers. However, social interaction is much more than keeping good habits and meeting friends. Having the right social schedule often leads to more regular exercise, support for medical appointments, and more. 

Cognitively speaking, active social lives offer much-needed mental stimulation, which can, in many cases, result in new neural connections being built. Regular conversations about various topics are vital to keeping the aging mind sharp and performing optimally. Healthy social interaction is also vital to hinder or reverse depression and anxiety. People who are lonely and perhaps don’t have enough family support benefit greatly from meeting friends regularly, helping to keep body and minds in check.

 

6. Keep the mind active

Just as physical exercise is important as we age, so too is keeping the mind active. In fact, a study funded by the National Institutes of Health found that the benefits of cognitive training for older adults can last as long as 10 years. The training, aimed at boosting older adults’ skills in memory, reasoning and speed of processing, slowed their cognitive decline and helped study participants maintain functioning in daily living tasks for over a decade.

There are many activities that can help keep the mind sharp including reading, playing cards, doing crosswords puzzles, and playing Sudoku and chess. These brain games provide the benefit of stimulating different cognitive functions, such as executive function and information processing speed.

7. Embrace technology and stay connected

Technological advances are transforming the way people age, and can help prevent or even delay cognitive and physical decline. Such innovations are helping aging communities to stay connected and enjoy life fully, even in their golden years. Technological innovations like telemedicine, cognitive and exercise training apps have the potential to transform the aging process and enhance quality of life significantly. 

Telemedicine and remote monitoring uses modern telecommunications technologies to support the delivery of all kinds of medical, diagnostic, and treatment-related services. It gives older individuals more options to manage complex conditions, access care when they need it, and reduce the burden on their caregivers.

Cognitive Training Apps are highly convenient as people can access them from their computer, tablet or mobile phones, and results or updates can be shared instantly with healthcare professionals. Programs can be tweaked and amended to meet the ongoing needs of the individual, offering maximum flexibility and immediate optimization.

Read more about brain games and how they can improve cognitive performance. or enhance your reading with examples of helpful devices and apps for stroke patients.

8. Treating aging as a reversible disease

For years, there has been a misconception that declining mental and physical performance are a normal part of the aging process. Aviv Clinics holistic mind-body medical program is blowing that myth out of the water. 

A new approach to reversing the aging process, the Aviv Medical Program with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) at its core, treats aging as a disease to help people live healthier, happier and more productive lives for more years.

Aviv’s comprehensive medical program is an immersive and highly personalized program that can combine HBOT sessions, cognitive and physical training, and nutritional and lifestyle coaching to leverage the body’s regenerative abilities. In-depth assessments, analytics and a full physiologic evaluation result in a comprehensive plan that is customized to each person’s health improvement goals. 

As we age, our bodies become less efficient in being able to channel oxygen to generate the necessary energy to recover from injury and illness. Boosting the body’s oxygen concentration levels helps improve performance, memory, attention span, focus and other brain-related executive functions, as well as regenerating body tissue, helping healthy aging adults live their best life at any age.

Comedian George Burns once said, “You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.” Advances in medical science, including hyperbaric medicine, have made that statement truer than ever. At Aviv, we treat aging as a reversible condition, not an inevitability.

Contact us today to find out more about how our multidisciplinary treatment program can help you turn back the clock and get the most out of your golden years. 

Healthy Aging with Aviv Clinics, watch Dr. Mo on Bloom:

Signs and Symptoms of Cognitive Decline

The term “cognitive decline” encompasses a wide spectrum of neurological statuses.

For example, on one end lives mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a condition that can become more commonplace as we age. Individuals living with this early stage of memory or cognitive ability loss may experience an increased risk of developing a more severe condition—such as the many forms of dementia. But others who express symptoms of MCI may never decline further. Some even see improvements in their cognitive health.

What are the Indications of MCI?

Symptoms of MCI often include:

1. 1. Increased forgetfulness. You may take longer to recall someone’s name, miss an important date such as a close friend’s birthday, or blank on a scheduled appointment.
   2. Interrupted train of thought. This often occurs during conversations or when engaging with entertainment (movies, television, books). You may find yourself rereading the same paragraph two, three, or more times.
   3. Decision-making stress. Becoming overwhelmed at the thought of making a decision, whether major or insignificant in nature, can be an indication of MCI.
   4. Confusion in the day-to-day. Many people with MCI start to feel uncertain about “next steps” or understanding instructions.
   5. Trouble navigating familiar environments. Getting lost on a familiar or frequently traveled route might indicate MCI is present.
   6. Impulsivity. Acting without thinking things through or expressing poor judgment in certain situations may also be a sign of MCI
   7. Mental health challenges. Individuals with MCI may present with depression, anxiety, apathy, irritability, or aggression.

A Word About Subjective Cognitive Decline

A person’s family members or friends might be the first to pick up on these symptoms, but in many cases individuals themselves recognize something isn’t quite right with their cognitive capacity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines subjective cognitive decline as self-reported confusion or memory issues that have been occurring more frequently or getting worse over the span of a year.

The CDC also notes:

• • Overall, the prevalence of Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD) is 11.1% among Americans (1 in 9 individuals).
  • Prevalence is lower among individuals with more years of formal education.
  • Nearly 30% of adults with SCD live alone.
  • More than two-thirds (66.2%) of adults with SCD have two or more chronic diseases.
  • 6% of adults with SCD experienced functional difficulties while performing day-to-day activities or chores.

Given this data, the CDC states SCD is a “growing public health issue.”

Signs and Symptoms of More Severe Cognitive Decline

While MCI may stabilize or improve with intervention, symptoms of MCI could also be the beginning of more severe cognitive decline to come. Many signs of worsening cognitive decline mimic those of MCI—just at more intense levels.

• • Confusion becomes much more pronounced. Some people begin to lose track of time or are unsure what day/date it is.
  • Making decisions becomes even more difficult, which can lead to frustration and anger towards others.
  • Memory loss deepens, with many more instances of forgetting names, dates, places, and events.
  • Individuals may be found wandering for unknown reasons, or placing items in odd locations (e.g. car keys in the freezer).
  • People tend to have trouble conversing, possibly due to diminished concentration and train of thought.

 

These factors may contribute to increased social withdrawal. Many people with cognitive decline or dementia understand they’re developing characteristics they may be embarrassed about, or that others find undesirable, and withdraw from others as a result. In other instances, depression or anxiety may keep them from interacting with others like they used to.

Unfortunately, social isolation leads to an entirely new set of concerns. Isolated individuals are more at risk for poor health outcomes, self-neglect, and fall-related injuries.

Lesser-Known Signs of Cognitive Decline

When thinking about cognitive decline and dementia, people are often aware of the above symptoms (memory, confusion, etc.). But some lesser-known signs of cognitive decline include:

• • Changes in sense of smell. A study published in the journal Neurology found that people who could no longer tell the difference between two very opposite odors (e.g. lemons and gasoline) may be in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Trouble with the law. If dementia is impacting areas of the brain that control judgment, self-control, violence, and sexual behavior, individuals may find themselves in criminal situations, such as theft, trespassing, or even assault.
  • Altered sleep patterns. Many people with dementia develop sleep issues such as insomnia, hypersomnia (sleeping too much), or sleeping during the day. This may be due to changes in the body’s circadian rhythm.
  • Changes in walking. Slower walking or changes in stride length/gait might indicate dementia-related shifts in the brain.

Your Cognitive Health Matters: Stay Proactive with Aviv Clinics

Every decision we make each day impacts our cognitive well-being, and staying proactive is one of those decisions.

If you want to be proactive, you can restore cognitive function with the Aviv Medical Program, which is founded on decades of research that enhances performance and brings relief to our clients.

With our unique protocol and cognitive training, the Aviv Medical Program targets the main cognitive domains known to decline during aging, including:

• Memory
• Attention
• Speed of information processing
• Multitasking
• Executive skills

We assess your cognition at the beginning of the program and again at the end to accurately measure your improvements.

Start today with Aviv Clinics.

Using HBOT to Address TBI and Concussion

Head injuries are much more common than one might think. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), an estimated 1.7 million Americans sustain a TBI each year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that there were over 64,000 TBI-related deaths in 2020, which equates to more than 175 brain injury-related deaths every day.

Those most affected include adolescents aged 15-19 and adults older than 65. Among seniors, falls are the most common cause of TBIs—a pervasive problem that can be mitigated with a few key strategies.

Yet, despite how pervasive TBIs are, many people don’t realize when they’re experiencing the “traumatic” incident. At one time, a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), which many know simply as a concussion, was actually thought to be a benign event. With much research, experts now know that even small, repeated injuries to the brain can have significant effects. These injuries can contribute to adverse neuropsychological outcomes—both acutely and long-term.

For example, in the moment, a concussion might cause dizziness, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, and vomiting. But over time, that same injury or repeated injuries may contribute to ongoing symptoms, such as chronic headaches, trouble concentrating or thinking clearly, memory problems, poor sleep, depression, anxiety, and irritability. Some people may not even connect an injury that happened years ago with their current symptoms, which can make it difficult to properly diagnose a TBI or post-concussion syndrome.

Unfortunately, the incidence of TBI and concussion persists. Per the Brain Injury Association of America, cumulative evidence shows that an estimated 5.3 million men, women, and children are living with a permanent TBI-related disability in the U.S. today.

Yet, does it have to be “permanent”?

 

 

HBOT’s Role in Relieving TBI Symptoms

Dedicated research into brain healing reveals a therapy that produces positive results in cases of TBI and post-concussion syndrome. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has historically been accepted as an effective treatment for medical issues like wound healing, severe infections, and decompression sickness. For some time, HBOT had not been explored much beyond those applications.

However, research in the last two decades reveals that HBOT, in combination with certain cognitive, nutritional, and physiological protocols, is able to repair areas of the brain that have been damaged due to TBI and concussion, as well as stroke, post-traumatic stress disorder, fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, and other neurological conditions.

What Results Can Individuals Expect?

To understand how HBOT works to address TBI and post-concussion damage, it’s important to know what changes occur in the brain during those injuries. Structural damage indicates a physical impact on the brain, such as bleeding. Metabolic damage is present when the brain’s cells are affected.

Traditional scans like CT and MRI may not be able to detect metabolic damage, especially if an injury occurred years ago. More advanced scans—like functional MRI and SPECT—are better able to identify areas of the brain that may be producing chronic post-concussion symptoms.

Applying HBOT and the unique protocols of the Aviv Medical Program yields multiple changes in the brain:

• New blood vessel formation (angiogenesis)
• New and stronger neural connections
• Stem cell production

These neural, vascular, and cellular changes contribute to cognitive improvements in memory, executive function, attention, processing speed, and spatial memory. Individuals with brain-based motor skill challenges also benefit from this comprehensive therapy.

Elements of the Aviv Medical Program also include cognitive therapy, strength and physical training, and nutritional coaching. The physiological and nutritional aspects of Aviv Clinics’ customized protocol elicit enhancements such as greater aerobic fitness, higher energy levels, improved sleep, and reduced pain. Overall, individuals report a significant improvement in their quality of life after completing the program

Bottom Line

If you’ve ever been in a car accident, fallen off a horse, or had “your bell rung” playing sports, you may have experienced a brain injury that could still be impacting your health. The Aviv Medical Program can help ease your symptoms.

If you or a loved one suspects a TBI or concussion has left lingering symptoms, contact us to learn more about how investing 90 days into treatment could change the rest of your life.

Signs and Symptoms of Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne illness in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) receive approximately 30,000 official reports of Lyme disease annually, but recent CDC estimates suggest that approximately 476,000 individuals develop Lyme disease each year in the U.S. It’s imperative that people recognize the early signs and symptoms to avoid long-term effects, which can be debilitating.

 

 

What Causes Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is a relatively modern affliction. It was first identified in the U.S. in 1975, in the town of Lyme, Connecticut. Since its discovery, scientists have performed numerous studies to understand the disease better, how it’s transmitted, and its biological impact on the human body.

Lyme is most commonly spread by deer ticks primarily found in the Northeast, upper Midwest, and Northwest. Deer ticks are also known as black-legged ticks, Ixodes scapularis, or Ixodes pacificus. These ticks are very small, making them troublesome to see. Some are as tiny as a poppy seed.

These ticks carry the Lyme disease bacterium, Borrelia burgdorferi, which is a spirochete—a highly invasive bacterium. Bacteria quickly move through the skin and break into and out of blood vessels. The Lyme bacteria can even cross the blood-brain barrier. These bacteria are also difficult to kill—especially if left untreated in the very early stages of the infection.

Lyme Disease in Three Stages

There are three main stages of Lyme disease, and each has its own signs and symptoms. Initially, Lyme can manifest itself as a rash known as erythema migrans (EM). The rash expands over time, after the tick bite, sometimes reaching12 inches or more across. It may feel warm to the touch but is rarely painful or itchy. Sometimes, the rash clears in the middle and resembles a bullseye. However, not everyone who is infected exhibits this bullseye indication. Acute signs like EM are key in identifying Lyme because it’s estimated that only about 17% of people recall being bitten by a tick. 

Timing is crucial in this acute stage of infection, regardless of whether the individual develops a rash. When a person can identify a tick bite, clean the site right away with antibacterial soap and water, and notify their primary care provider, they may be able to cure the infection in 10-12 days.

Lyme progresses to the subacute stage when an infection goes unnoticed and thus untreated. Individuals may experience flu-like symptoms such as headaches, fever, and chills.

As time goes on, symptoms worsen into joint pain, swelling and other bodily aches, similar to arthritis. By this stage, people are in the “danger zone” of chronic Lyme disease. 

Lyme can cause cardiac dysrhythmias, a condition in which the heart is not beating correctly. Cardiac dysrhythmia can eventually cause the heart to fail. Some Lyme patients may need a pacemaker to regulate their heart’s rhythm. 

Because the Lyme disease bacterium, Borrelia burgdorferi, crosses the blood-brain barrier, neurological symptoms may result, such as: 

• Confusion
• Brain fog
• Facial paralysis or drooping
• Severe head pain
• Visual disturbances
• Neck stiffness
• Intermittent pain in tendons, muscles, joints, and bones 
• Episodes of dizziness or shortness of breath
• Heart palpitations
• Inflammation of the brain and spinal cord
• Nerve pain
• Numbness, tingling, or shooting pain in the hands or feet

Some individuals even report having an “out of body” experience, feeling they are in one place when they’re not, similar to a hallucination.

Testing for Lyme Disease

Chronic Lyme is difficult to identify and adequately treat because no definitive diagnostic test exists. Most Lyme disease tests are designed to detect antibodies created as the body responds to the infection. But antibodies can take several weeks to develop, meaning that patients may test negative in the early stages of infection.

Specific immunological markers may reveal reason for concern via blood testing, but these markers also might indicate other types of infections—including other tick-borne diseases, viral, bacterial, or autoimmune diseases—all of which can result in false positive test results.

The most effective way to uncover Lyme is through a solid, thorough history, clinical examination, and a Lyme questionnaire. 

Treating Lyme Disease

Traditional treatment for Lyme disease includes antibiotics, antiviral, and antifungal protocols. Treatment is challenging because spirochetes are extremely intelligent. Many bacteria contain plasmids, which are small, circular DNA molecules that can make bacteria resistant to antibiotic treatment. With Lyme, this process becomes heightened. Research has shown that the Lyme disease Borrelia burgdorferi species presents the most complex plasmid structure among known bacteria.

Spirochetes are so smart and fast that they communicate with other spirochetes, telling them to change various factors such as pH or temperature or generate a new plasmid that will ultimately resist the treatment. 

When one antibiotic treatment doesn’t work, physicians may try as many as 20-30 different types. Unfortunately, this can perpetuate the resistance and induce long-lasting molecular changes to the body’s microbiome. The immediate physiological effects plague patients daily, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Long-term antibiotic treatment for Lyme disease has been associated with serious, sometimes deadly, complications. 

Despite all these efforts, the spirochetes survive. Autopsy evidence reveals that spirochetes keep growing persistently, even after 15 years of antibiotic treatment. Given all the evidence, prescriptions may aid in alleviating some of the accompanying symptoms of Lyme, such as pain, depression, anxiety, and poor sleep, but they simply do not work effectively to eliminate the infection itself.

If Traditional Treatments Don’t Work, What Can Be Done?

Multiple research studies have shown the positive benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in treating Lyme disease and its symptoms. The science behind this approach involves how spirochetes respond when exposed to oxygen: they die.

Individuals living with chronic Lyme disease who have undergone HBOT treatments and the Aviv Medical Program protocols report relief from symptoms like digestive distress, brain fog, joint pain, and overwhelming fatigue. Many have been able to return to the active lifestyle they have been missing for years. 

HBOT and the accompanying protocols of the Aviv Medical Program will be increasingly valuable in the coming years. Lyme is projected to become a severe epidemic in the next decade—particularly in the Northeast, upper Midwest, and Northwest. 

If you or a loved one suspects chronic Lyme disease is at the root of troubling health issues, contact us to learn more about the Aviv Medical Program and its role in providing relief for Lyme patients. 

Intermittent Fasting 101

Intermittent fasting has been on an increasing number of peoples’ radars over the past 5 to 10 years. Yet, it’s not a “new” concept. In prehistoric times, fasting was just a part of daily life. As hunters and gatherers, our ancestors went days without nourishment.

The documentation of intermittent fasting dates back to the 1500s, recorded by Luigi Cornaro, a nobleman. Cornaro made significant changes to his diet and lifestyle habits in his 40s to strengthen his “weak constitution.”

At age 83, his colleagues urged him to chronicle these changes—because they had known him as a younger man and were certain Cornaro should not still be living. He continued to beat the perceived odds and lived another 20 years, dying at age 103.

Fast forward to 2019, when the New England Journal of Medicine published a peer-reviewed paper on the health benefits of intermittent fasting. Intermittent fasting remains a viable approach to living longer, healthier lives.

How Does Intermittent Fasting Work?

The human body operates with one goal in mind: survival. If you go 8-12 hours without food, your entire body is out of gasoline. You have no more stored glycogen, which provides energy. Your liver and muscle cells are empty, and your brain is screaming for sustenance. As a result, your body taps into what’s easiest to access in order to feed the brain: visceral fat.

It’s important to note that not all fat stored in the body is “bad.” Humans need certain types of fat to promote healthy metabolism and optimal hormone levels.

Visceral fat is not that type. High visceral fat levels may contribute to diabetes, heart disease, stroke, artery disease, and even cancer. So, reducing those levels is not just about eliminating a spare tire or muffin top.

Scientific Benefits of Intermittent Fasting

The research on intermittent fasting reveals its impact beyond weight loss. Thirteen hours without ingesting calories prevents breast cancer in both women and men. In rats, a 14-16 hour fasting period improves longevity by 30-50%.

Additional benefits include improvements to:

• thinking and memory
• blood pressure
• physical performance
• type-2 diabetes
• sleep apnea

 

Intermittent fasting also helps with reducing inflammation.
Too much inflammation in the body can lead to conditions such as:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• arthritis
• asthma
• multiple sclerosis
• stroke

 

The Simplest Diet: Intermittent Fasting

Aside from the health benefits, one of the best aspects of intermittent fasting is that it doesn’t require people to invest any extra time or money. You don’t have to buy special foods or spend hours measuring and weighing your meals. There are also no “off-limit” foods. You can still enjoy your favorite meals and snacks as long as you do so in moderation.

All intermittent fasting requires is knowing what time it is.
And, in truth, we all fast—it’s called sleeping!

The goal is getting to the sweet spot, the thirteen-hour marker of fasting, where the medical benefits take hold. However, there’s no detriment to switching up your schedule. Some days you may hit 13 hours, other days, you might aim for 16 or 18. A popular intermittent fasting schedule is 16:8—fasting for 16 hours and feasting for eight. On the weekends, you may decide not to stick to a schedule. Consistently practicing intermittent fasting is most important.

That said, there is some risk in fasting for too long. For example, if you’re regularly hitting the 20-hour mark, you’ll likely start to lose muscle mass. The body can only absorb 30 grams of protein at a time. With a limited feast window, you may not be getting adequate protein intake.

Are There Any Risks Associated with Intermittent Fasting?

Individuals living with diabetes should consult with their endocrinologist or diabetes educator before commencing with intermittent fasting. However, if someone is only in the stage of insulin resistance, intermittent fasting can prevent diabetes from developing.

Some people report experiencing digestive issues, such as constipation. In this case, they’re likely not drinking adequate amounts of water or eating enough high-fiber foods. Of course, in the initial stages, one might experience some fatigue, hunger pangs, and possibly headaches. As with any lifestyle change, it takes persistence and time to adapt. Still, it’s critical to have a conversation with your healthcare provider if you’re curious about intermittent fasting’s effects.

Ready to Explore Intermittent Fasting?

Different types of intermittent fasting exist. Some of the most common include:

Time-Restricted Fasting. This approach works by limiting the daily window of feasting. For example, if you eat your first meal of the day at 10 a.m. and your last meal at 6 p.m., you’ve followed the 16:8 plan. Common ratios for time-restricted fasting include 14:10, 16:8, and 18:6.

5:2 fasting. In this strategy, individuals eat “normally” five days a week and fast for two days. On the fasting days, they restrict their calorie intake to one 500-calorie meal for women and one 600-calorie meal for men.

Alternate Day Fasting. Using the same calorie intake as 5:2, fasting takes place every other day.

Time-restricted fasting is a great way to start because you can ease into it—gradually shrinking your feast window. As you get more accustomed to fasting, you might venture into other methods to see if they work for you.

Bottom Line

The benefits of intermittent fasting are well-documented. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, improve your daily performance, optimize your cognitive health, or generally extend your lifespan, intermittent fasting is effective.

Nutrition is a core component of the Aviv Medical Program. If you’d like to learn how the program works and its benefits, contact us for more information.

 

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Options for Stroke Recovery

Stroke prevalence has spurred scientists to develop more effective stroke recovery therapies, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT).

Recovery from an ischemic or TIA (“mini stroke”) may not be guaranteed, but this much is clear: people who receive timely and effective treatment recover with fewer post-stroke effects.

Unfortunately, timely treatment is not always attainable: 

• Stroke is a “leading cause of death in the United States and is a major cause of serious disability for adults.” 
• “More than half of stroke survivors age 65 and older” experience reduced mobility, relegating some individuals to a wheelchair for the remainder of their lives. Many struggle with cognitive function, speech difficulties, and visual impairments as well.

Thankfully, advanced rehabilitation programs exist, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) options and other therapies. The experts at Aviv Clinics discuss these key details below.

What Happens to the Brain during a Stroke?

When a stroke strikes, it immediately starts killing brain cells due to loss of blood flow. As many as two million brain cells die each minute the stroke goes untreated. Other cells become injured but don’t necessarily die off. Neurologists often describe them as being “stunned”.

Still, a significant part of the brain’s real estate comes under attack. The combined damage from injured and necrotic (dead) brain cells results in both immediate and long-term symptoms such as:

• Limb weakness or paralysis
• Slurred speech
• Vision complications
• Balance issues.

Nothing can be done about the dead brain cells, which is why timely intervention is so critical. However, a growing body of research indicates that HBOT can help repair the injured cells, even years after the initial stroke

What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)? 

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a type of therapy that uses pressurized chambers to allow individuals to breathe in 100% pure oxygen. 

In the hyperbaric suites at Aviv Clinics, the air is pressurized in the HBOT chamber to above atmospheric levels. This environment increases oxygen levels in the body to about 17 times higher than normal, allowing oxygen to be delivered even to damaged cells, such as those injured by stroke.

How Does HBOT Help with the Post-Stroke Recovery Process?

The unique HBOT protocol at Aviv Clinics uses a scientifically validated process in which oxygen levels are fluctuated throughout the HBOT session. When the mask is on, oxygen levels are very high. But, when the mask is off, the body is deceived into sensing a state of “low” oxygen because of the rapid decline. 

This fluctuation triggers the body into repair and regeneration mode, which in turn:

• Improves injured cell health
• Builds new blood vessels, optimizing blood flow
• Grows new connections in the brain

In the past, growing those new connections was inconceivable. Scientists previously believed that once neurons were destroyed, they could never rebound. Research has since disproved that notion.

What Benefits Can Stroke Survivors Achieve with HBOT?

Several studies have proven the benefits of using HBOT in post-stroke recovery. Repair mechanisms in the brain, prompted by HBOT, result in:

• Regained speech and reading capabilities
• Restored motor function, even with paresis
• Return to independence in performing daily activities

The Aviv Medical Program

When combined with the exercise, personalized nutrition, and extensive assessments that are part of the Aviv Medical Program, the outcomes become even more impressive: 

• Some Aviv clients progress from using wheelchairs to walking on their own or with an assistive device. 
• Clients who lost their ability to speak make immense recovery strides. 
• Many report that the biggest benefit is simply not being a “burden” on their loved ones.

Our post-stroke program remains focused on research and incorporates a holistic and personalized approach that can include the following: 

• In-depth review of health history
• Comprehensive physical exam
• Highly advanced brain imaging  scans
• Neurological and neurocognitive tests
• Body composition analysis
• A detailed report of our assessment findings 
• Cognitive training
• Physical training
• Dietary coaching
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)
• A post-treatment report of your improvements and recommendations for future progress

Learn more about the program>>

Even if a person has no visible effects after having a stroke, the brain has still been damaged—and they are at a higher risk for a subsequent stroke. HBOT, through the Aviv Medical Program, can help mitigate that risk by improving the flow of blood to brain tissue and potentially prevent future strokes from occurring.

How Soon after a Stroke Can Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Be Administered?

Aviv Clinics recommends a 3-6 month wait after a stroke before beginning the Aviv Medical Program protocols. This allows for the brain’s natural healing progression to take hold. 

The sooner stroke survivors act after the post-acute stage, the better. The research our scientists have done indicates a strong cohort from the one-month point to four years post-stroke.

That said, there’s really no limit on how long after a stroke individuals can participate in the program. We’ve seen success in clients who were as many as 10 years into their stroke recovery.

How Long Does It Take to See Results? 

Most people see improvement from the Aviv Medical Program within the 8-12 weeks of therapy and medically verifiable results by the end of their treatment. 

But keep in mind, no one-size-fits-all approach exists. You’ll receive your own unique therapy plan, so outcomes and timelines vary. Our ability to quantify your health plan is ultimately what delivers results. 

For reference, here is a general overview of what our program looks like: 

• Step 1: Assessment—A comprehensive set of neurocognitive, physical, and genomic assessments. 
• Step 2: Treatment—Based on the assessment, we develop a customized routine that can include  hyperbaric oxygen sessions with  other types of personalized training/therapies. These may take place over 12 weeks. 
• Step 3: Analysis—Our team uses advanced analytics to assess your program’s efficacy, and make the necessary adjustments.
• Step 4: Follow up—The Aviv Clinics team will offer ongoing monitoring and engagement post-treatment to help maintain your results. 

Keren Trabelsi Finds Hope after Her Stroke

“[Treatment at Aviv is] like driving a Ferrari on the road to recovery versus driving like an old beaten-up car….”

Keren Trabelsi underwent an ischemic stroke. This caused cognitive issues and paralysis on the left side of her body. Daily tasks grew more difficult, which left her feeling defeated.

Fortunately, Keren found the Aviv Medical Program. Aviv Clinics provided a personalized treatment plan encompassing many of the therapies we outlined earlier. 

Thirteen months later, Keren can walk comfortably, type with her left hand again, and engage in a myriad of activities (crossword puzzles, Sudoku, etc.) she couldn’t participate in after her stroke.

The Bottom Line

Stroke survivors no longer need to feel like life is over due to debilitating cognitive and physical impairments. The Aviv Medical Program is rooted in extensive scientific research and has been instrumental in helping stroke survivors thrive well into their golden years.

Contact us to learn more about the Aviv Medical Program and how it can benefit you or a loved one.

Stroke and Mini-Stroke Symptoms to Watch For

Each year in the United States, “more than 795,000 people suffer strokes.” This means that “every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke,” while a person dies from one “every 3.5 minutes.”

Strokes aren’t always equal in severity, but there is still a significant impact concerning brain cell damage, death, and overall brain performance. These effects manifest in various physical and cognitive ways. 

Learn the stroke and mini-stroke symptoms to watch for and how the Aviv Medical Program can play a part in a post-stroke rehabilitation journey. 

How Do Strokes Differ?

There are three primary types of strokes: 

1. Hemorrhagic: Caused by bleeding in or around the brain
2. Ischemic: Caused by a blockage, which cuts off blood supply to the brain
3. Transient ischemic attack (TIA): A mini-stroke in which blood blockage is temporary or short-lived

Ischemic strokes comprise about 87% of all strokes—also encompassing TIAs—while “hemorrhagic strokes make up the remaining 13%.”

Transient Ischemic Attack (Mini-Stroke)

Though a TIA is often referred to as a mini-stroke, it’s vital to understand that such an event can be just as damaging as a traditional stroke in the long run. The number one risk factor for having a stroke is a previous stroke, including a TIA.

While the definition of a TIA has evolved over the past two decades, most neurologists now diagnostically classify a TIA as a stroke—not just an “attack”—because it still represents ischemic activity. 

If you experience a TIA, you should take it seriously. Think of it this way–maybe you didn’t get fatally shot, but you still got hit.

 

 

What Are the Common Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke?

With a stroke, timely intervention is critical. According to experts, an individual can lose nearly 2 million brain cells in each minute following a stroke, which further heightens the risk of permanent brain damage, disability, and death. So, everyone must know the signs and symptoms of possible stroke.

Facial drooping, arm weakness, and speech difficulty are three of the best-known stroke symptoms. One helpful tool for remembering what to do is the FAST acronym:

• F: Facial drooping. Is the person able to smile normally?
• A: Arm weakness. Can the person raise both arms to equal height? Or does one drift downward?
• S: Speech difficulty. Are they slurring their words or having trouble communicating thoughts?
• T: Time is tissue. Call 9-1-1 immediately.

 

Additional Signs and Symptoms to Keep in Mind

While those mentioned are the classic stroke symptoms most often discussed by physicians and stroke awareness advocates, additional signs may point to stroke. 

For example, nausea, dizziness or vertigo, confusion, and visual changes may also be indicators. Sometimes, if the TIA affects the frontal-temporal lobe, a person might have a sudden personality change.

Ultimately, any sudden change should be considered a stroke possibility. Again, the highest risk factor for stroke is a previous one—so the older a person gets, the more likely they are to develop a stroke. 

However, children, teenagers, and young adults are not immune. There may have been anatomical factors while in the womb, heart arrhythmias, or external exposures such as drugs and alcohol. In some scenarios, extreme stress can bring on a stroke.

How Much Time Do You Have to Respond?

If treatment takes place within three hours of symptom onset, there is a much greater chance an individual will recover with little or no disability. If intervention is delayed, there are still some options available:

• Thrombolysis: Advancements in ischemic stroke treatment include a method called intravenous thrombolysis (IVT), which involves medicine that works as a clot-buster to restore blood flow to the brain. It is administered via an IV, so no surgical intervention is required. 

However, this treatment must be given within the first four-and-a-half hours of stroke occurrence. If that window closes, the patient will not be eligible to receive the medication.

• Thrombectomy: Another option is mechanical thrombectomy. This non-invasive procedure involves inserting a catheter into the arteries, navigating to where the clot is, and retrieving it. Studies note, “mechanical thrombectomy significantly improved functional independence and appeared to be cost-effective compared to IVT alone.”
• Combined approach: Scientists have also developed an approach that combines medicinal thrombolytic treatment with mechanical thrombectomy. Research indicates that integrating the two in a primary stroke center has benefits comparable to care in a comprehensive stroke center, “with no statistically significant difference.”

What to Do If You Experience a Stroke

As soon as you experience any symptoms of stroke, call 9-1-1. Don’t drive yourself to the emergency room—wait for the EMTs. In most cases, emergency response workers can start making critical assessments and relay the stroke response team waiting at the hospital.

It can’t be emphasized enough: timely response means everything. Once the stopwatch begins, you have very little time to act in order to optimize outcomes.

Stroke Prevention

Although some strokes are caused by factors beyond your control, the CDC reports, “you can help prevent stroke by making healthy lifestyle choices.”

Take ownership of your health and longevity by incorporating these methods into your lifestyle: 

• Incorporate fruits and vegetables into your diet. Consider transitioning to a Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet, which can offer anti-inflammatory and cognitive benefits. 
• Get regular exercise. We recommend 30 minutes of exercise three days a week at a minimum. Physical activity releases endorphins, helping you feel good. Regular exercise can lower your blood pressure, reducing one stroke risk factor. Consider pursuing an activity you thoroughly enjoy to stay motivated. 
• Find helpful ways to cope with stress. Stress can negatively impact the brain. Look for ways to manage stress, such as therapy or counseling, interacting with loved ones regularly, or meditating. Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol to cope with stress, as these behaviors can increase your risk of stroke.

Learn more about how to invest in your health. 

Learn More>>

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy’s Impact on Stroke Relief

If you or a loved one has had a stroke with cognitive or physical after-effects, consider looking into hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as a potential rehabilitation option. HBOT is a therapy during which an individual breathes in 100% pure oxygen. This treatment elevates oxygen levels up to 20 times higher than normal. 

Decades of research note that the impact HBOT has on the mind and body can lead to significant neurological improvements in post-stroke patients, even at chronic late stages. These findings offer hope for individuals who have experienced strokes months or even years ago. 

Keep in mind HBOT processes across clinics will vary. So it’s essential to do your research to find a clinic that is right for you. 

The Aviv Medical Program

The Aviv Medical Program, which can include Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) and additional personalized therapies, can help repair and regenerate the brain after a stroke. Our unique HBOT protocol includes fluctuating oxygen levels during sessions. These variations, coupled with additional therapeutic programs, help unlock the body’s self-healing mechanisms. 

Additional therapeutic programs may include: 

• Cognitive training
• Physical training 
• Nutritional training

The Aviv Medical Program embodies a customized approach to each patient’s health program based on their health concerns, background, and goals. Learn more about our research and how you can return to optimal health after a stroke. 

Find Hope with Aviv Clinics 

Aviv Clinic’s research-backed program has helped thousands of patients elevate their quality of life after a stroke. If you or your loved one suffers from debilitating conditions, our diverse medical team is ready to lend a hand. 

Contact us to learn more about the Aviv Medical Program and how it can benefit post-stroke recovery.

The Effect of Coffee on Brain Health

Pour-over, solo, drip, French-pressed – however you enjoy your coffee, it may be doing more for you than just getting you going in the morning. Drinking coffee may also protect you from a variety of health conditions, so long as it is consumed in moderation.

For decades, coffee had a poor reputation because of early studies that deemed it a carcinogen and linked it to an increased risk for heart disease. Recent research now suggests that drinking coffee, including decaffeinated coffee, may actually provide a variety of health benefits when consumed in moderation.

The Benefits of Coffee on Brain Health

Some of coffee’s health benefits are commonly known, including that it boosts metabolism and increases energy levels. Lesser known, but perhaps more important benefits of coffee are that it also:

• Enhances brain function
• Lowers the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
• Decreases the risk of stroke and depression.

Beyond brain health, moderate consumption of coffee also helps reduce the risk of some cancers, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

Coffee’s Key Ingredients 

Caffeine is just one of about 1,000 chemicals found in coffee beans, but is the best known. A stimulant, caffeine delivers a boost of energy and helps provide focus. It locks into the adenosine receptors in the brain, which cause drowsiness, and counteracts the sleepiness response by blocking the function of the receptors. Instead of feeling drowsy, caffeine stimulates the brain’s production of norepinephrine and dopamine, which is what leads to increased focus and alertness.

In addition to caffeine, coffee also contains beneficial polyphenols and antioxidants, which fight inflammation and protect against some diseases.

Polyphenols are organic compounds found in the coffee plant. They contain anti-inflammatory properties that have the potential to prevent or reduce the risk of certain cancers and other chronic health conditions. Some polyphenols may also protect against neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s. Consuming polyphenols also may help regulate metabolism, weight, and cell production.

Other beneficial components in coffee include vitamin B2 (riboflavin); vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid); vitamin B1 (thiamine); vitamin B3 (niacin); folate, manganese, potassium, magnesium; and phosphorus.

Coffee beans also are enriched so that when they are ground, blended, and consumed, provide some pre- and probiotic properties for good gut health.

The Cons of Drinking Coffee

While coffee has many health benefits, it can also have some negative effects. For example, it can:

• Disrupt sleep
• Cause anxiety and jitteriness
• Lead to an addiction to caffeine
• Cause withdrawal symptoms (headache, fatigue, brain fog, and irritability) when abstaining
• Increase feelings of anxiety and agitation in those with anxiety disorders

Moderating consumption is key to enjoying its benefits.

How Much Coffee Should You Drink? 

As with most foods, coffee is a healthy beverage when consumed in moderation. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends no more than five cups a day or on average 400 mg of caffeine. Another reason for moderate consumption is because too much, especially after mid-day, could interfere with getting a good night’s sleep and may create feelings of anxiety.

Optimizing the Benefits of Coffee 

While coffee has many health benefits, adding refined sugar, artificial sweeteners, and/or creamers add calories and create an unhealthy beverage.

“The extra calories, sugar, and saturated fat in a coffee house beverage loaded with whipped cream and flavored syrup might offset any health benefits found in a basic black coffee.” – Harvard School of Public Health

How you brew your coffee also affects the health benefits it imparts.

For example, using a paper filter or checking coffee pods for built-in filters helps prevent the passage of unhealthy chemicals present in coffee as it filters. Some of these chemicals can raise levels of LDL, or the “bad” cholesterol.

The Bottom Line 

Coffee has many health benefits, when drunk in moderation. Using high quality beans, brewing it with a paper filter, and limiting additions such as refined sugars and creamers, can optimize the impact of coffee on your brain health.

Aviv Clinics Dubai – brought to you by DP World  delivers a highly effective, science-based treatment protocol to enhance overall brain performance, extend healthspan, and improve the cognitive and physical symptoms of conditions such as mild cognitive decline, fibromyalgia, and Lyme disease. The Aviv Medical Program’s intensive treatment protocol uses hyperbaric oxygen therapy and includes nutrition management and dietitian support to optimize your diet for better brain health. Based on over a decade of research and development, the Aviv Medical Program is comprehensive and customized to your needs.

Contact us to learn more.

 

3 Mental Health Benefits of Golf 

The COVID-19 pandemic has increased awareness about mental health challenges, the importance of addressing them, and the various ways they can be mitigated. Uncertainty, loss, and isolation have contributed to higher instances of depression and anxiety. Exercise and socializing are two ways to help maintain good mental health and reduce the risk of depression and anxiety.

The mental health benefits of golf offers a great way to easily combine exercise and socializing to support your mental health. Here are three primary reasons hitting the course is good for your brain.

 

 

1) Decreases the Effects of Depression and Anxiety

You may have heard of a ‘runner’s high’–that exhilarating feeling many runners experience during a great race—or even during an everyday jog. Exercise, including playing golf, releases endorphins, the brain’s “feel-good” neurotransmitters.

For women, this can be particularly important. Many experts estimate that women are nearly twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with depression. The number could be even higher for those who suffer from depression, but do not have a formal diagnosis.

Australian researcher Kristiann Heesch looked at the effect of exercise on women’s depression. The results of her study, reported by Scientific American, showed that women who averaged 150 minutes of moderate exercise (golf, tennis, aerobics classes, swimming, or line-dancing) or 200 minutes of walking every week, “had more energy, socialized more, felt better emotionally, and were not as limited by their depression when researchers followed up after three years.”

Endorphins also help ease anxiety, which is the most common mental health concern in the United States. According to data from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), over 40 million adults in the U.S. (19.1%) have an anxiety disorder.

The exposure to sunshine when playing golf also has benefits. Research has linked vitamin D deficiency with instances of depression and other mental health struggles. Even a cloudy day on the golf course provides the sun exposure required to optimize your vitamin D levels.

2) Lessens Stress

Most people encounter periods of stress in their lives. However, when stress becomes chronic, it can affect other components of health.

The National Institute on Mental Health (NIMH) reports that repeated stress can disrupt functioning of the immune, digestive, cardiovascular, sleep, and reproductive systems. Even more cause for concern, the continued strain that stress places on your body may contribute to serious health problems, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and mental illness.

Chronic stress also negatively impacts the brain through memory problems, loss of brain cells, and weakened mental health.

The restorative impact of the endorphins from a round of golf, along with the meditative nature of the focus it requires may help reduce stress. Additionally, exercising outdoors, or “green exercise,” is actually better than indoor exercise when it comes to stress reduction.

Shedding your tensions during the course of playing nine or 18 holes can leave you feeling calmer, clearer, more focused, and ready to manage both daily and extraordinary challenges in your life.

3) Fosters Socialization

Humans are naturally social beings. While not every person is a social butterfly, socialization and interaction has been shown to improve one’s overall health and well-being. This is one of the reasons so many individuals have suffered through the COVID pandemic—being forced to isolate themselves from friends and family for weeks or even months at a time.

Research has revealed that person-to-person interaction triggers the nervous system to release a combination of neurotransmitters that regulate the body’s response to stress and anxiety. Dopamine is another feel-good chemical produced by the brain, which has a compounding effect on one’s mental health.

“It’s part of our reward center, and when our brain produces dopamine in response to what we do, we feel good and want to do more of whatever it is that’s making us feel so mentally healthy. That, in turn, leads to even more dopamine production,” explains Tanya J. Peterson, NCC, DAIS, a mental health educator.

Playing golf with your friends, spouse, or colleagues can help reap these socialization benefits. Aviv Clinics clients already enjoy the camaraderie naturally fostered by their hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions in our state-of-the-art HBOT Suite. Golf games provide more opportunities for socializing and improving their overall experience.



The bottom line

The past two years of the COVID pandemic have reinforced a focus on mental health and the importance of engaging in social and physical activities to help manage our moods, stress, and overall health. Incorporating golf into your weekly routine can help maintain your mental health.

Choosing the Right Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Program for You

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has become available for more health conditions to help extend healthspan, improve physical performance, and manage cognitive decline. As more facilities providing HBOT open around the United States, different types of HBOT technology and treatment protocols have appeared. It has become increasingly important to understand the differences and identify the option best able to meet your health goals and needs.

What are the types of hyperbaric oxygen therapy chambers?

There are two types of hyperbaric oxygen therapy chambers: multiplace and monoplace chambers.  

Multiplace chambers are large, modern, comfortable rooms that feature cushioned seating. They are designed much like a first class airplane seat, with personal entertainment tablets. Aviv Clinics clients receive their HBOT treatments in spacious multiplace chambers that allow them to sit comfortably and engage in brain training during the course of the session.

Aviv Clinics – Multiplace chamber HBOT suite

Monoplace chambers are rigid glass or plastic tubes that are meant for one person. Patients must use them lying down. Most clinics use monoplace chambers. People who are claustrophobic in small spaces might find them confining. People sometimes associate them with hospital burn units, wound care facilities, or MRI machines. They are sometimes even referred to as “Michael Jackson” tubes because the singer reportedly used this method from time to time.

 

 

What treatment program is used for HBOT? 

HBOT treatment programs can range widely, so it is important to understand which protocol best fits your health goals. Some facilities offer single, spa-like experiences, while others provide basic HBOT for a few sessions to address specific issues. On the other end of the spectrum are comprehensive, research-backed programs, such as the Aviv Medical Program, that address issues such as mild cognitive decline, stroke, Lyme disease, PTSD and fibromyalgia. 

Basic hyperbaric oxygen therapy for specific issues, such as gangrene, non-healing wounds,  infections, and “the bends” experienced by some divers, has been used for decades. For these conditions, the number of HBOT treatments can be as few as one or two sessions. 

A comprehensive HBOT treatment protocol, like the Aviv Medical Program, addresses issues that affect your healthspan and physical and mental performance. It differs not only because of the length—every client does at least 60, two-hour HBOT “dives” throughout the 12-week program—but also because it encompasses more than just hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Clients receive individualized exercise and nutrition coaching, as well as regular check-ins with a multidisciplinary team of physicians, physiologists, nutritionists, neuropsychologists, and other health professionals.

Be aware of clinics that offer unclear treatment protocols. Some of these facilities promote their services as more of a spa-like experience, with no standardized treatment plans or science-backed evidence to support their claims.

Is the HBOT program backed by research?

Review whether the facility you are considering has developed its treatment protocols based on scientific, peer-reviewed research. Every treatment you choose has the ability to affect your body positively or negatively, so doing your research and choosing a reputable clinic is paramount. 

The pressure and length of treatments, as well as the oxygen dosage used in Aviv’s HBOT treatments, are the result of peer-reviewed scientific research. This comprehensive protocol has been shown to maximize the body’s own regenerative power. It is a unique, proprietary system of modulated oxygen exposure that is only offered by Aviv Clinics.

What type of expert/clinician support is available?

An important consideration when choosing your hyperbaric oxygen therapy clinic is the type of expert support available to provide treatment and guidance. The best treatment protocols include a multidisciplinary team.

At Aviv Clinics, clients have access to an expert clinician team that includes physicians, physiologists, psychologists, and nutritionists throughout the 12-week program. The team continues to stay in contact with clients even after the treatment course to ensure they continue their progress. Subsequent six-month follow-up assessments are also part of the program and help clients continue to track their progress. 

What assessments are performed? 

Tracking progress from the start of the treatment course is needed to confirm whether your health goals were reached. Some clinics include scanning and diagnostic assessments as part of their offerings. 

Aviv Clinics offers the industry’s most comprehensive battery of cognitive and physical tests to set a baseline for each client at the start. The Aviv Medical Program assessments include:

• In-depth medical intakes performed by our expert clinical team, including physicians, neuropsychologists, physiologists, physical therapists, and nutritionists
• Full battery of computerized cognitive testing that includes evaluation of your memory, focus, information processing speed, attention, and executive function
• Extensive blood tests
• Advanced MRI brain imaging protocols (anatomical, perfusion, microstructure)
• CPET – a heart and lung performance test to measure how the body produces energy with and without oxygen
• Body composition analysis, including gait, balance, and overall motor functions
• Full genetic sequencing
• Cellular performance tests including a stem cell count and assessment of aging biomarkers such as telomeres, which help to calculate your true biological age

The assessments are repeated at the end of the program. This allows our team to provide clients with a full report, summarizing progress throughout the program, and providing the data and analysis necessary to move forward with health and wellness goals.

Will there be medical support during the HBOT session? 

Having professional oversight and support during your HBOT treatment is a critical consideration. At facilities that use small, monoplace tubes, clients are typically monitored through cameras. 

At Aviv Clinics, a nurse is present inside the HBOT suite to support clients and ensure appropriate treatment during all hyperbaric dives. A trained technician also monitors the session from outside of the chamber. A physician is on site at all times during treatments as safety is Aviv’s top priority.

Is a comprehensive progress report provided?

Many condition-specific or other facilities work on a session-to-session basis. Even if a long-term recovery plan is the purpose, they may only track progress per HBOT treatment. 

Aviv Clinics takes a holistic approach by providing all-encompassing and in-depth reports. After clients complete the Aviv Medical Program, the clinician team provides a detailed before-and-after cognitive and physiological analysis, showing their markers of improvement. Clients review their progress, one-on-one with the physician, who explains and interprets the data, and provides next steps. 

The Bottom Line

An HBOT treatment protocol that is backed by research, supported by a multidisciplinary and caring clinician team, and a full range of assessments to show progress are all important considerations for choosing the right HBOT clinic to meet your health goals.

The Aviv Medical Program is rooted in extensive scientific research and trials conducted on HBOT treatment for a variety of conditions, including reversing the signs of biological aging, mild cognitive decline, post-stroke recovery, Lyme disease, PTSD, and fibromyalgia. 

Contact us to learn more about the Aviv Medical Program and how it can benefit you.