Bodytalk
Question: What is reflexology, and does it work? Reflexology, SAMe
both therapeuticAnswer: Reflexology is a therapeutic form of foot massage whose benefits affect the entire body. It has been practiced in China and Egypt since ancient times.
The goal of reflexologists is to restore balance to the human body. They do this by applying pressure to specific areas, or zones, on the feet. These zones correspond to the internal organs and systems of the human body.
Reflexologists believe that if an organ or tissue is impaired, the corresponding reflex zone on the foot will be sensitive to external pressure. By applying systematic pressure to these zones, the reflexologist aims to increase the circulation of blood to the sites, thereby triggering a natural healing process.
A skilled reflexologist can identify places in the foot that are sensitive to pressure, and assess a person's general state of health. The treatment lasts anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes and costs between $30 and $85.
The experience is generally a pleasant and relaxing one, although some reflex zones are more sensitive than others.
Does it work? I know of no clinical studies that substantiate the claims of reflexologists. I do know that a good foot massage feels great; it relaxes the body, calms the mind and nourishes the soul. Now that works for me!
Q: What is SAMe?
A: SAMe, pronounced "sammy," is one of the hottest new dietary supplements on the market today. It's a naturally occurring substance; our bodies manufacture it from an amino acid found in protein-rich foods.
Supplemental SAMe is touted as a wonder treatment for arthritis and depression. It is widely available as a supplement, in health food stores and vitamin specialty shops. But studies completed so far in the United States don't appear to be reliable enough for SAMe to receive FDA approval as an arthritis or depression medication. Nonetheless, it has been approved as a legitimate drug in many other countries. Doctors in Europe have been prescribing SAMe for more than 20 years, for relief from depression and arthritis pain. Most Americans haven't yet heard of SAMe because it's only recently been imported by GNC and Nature Made vitamin companies.
Here's how SAMe works: SAMe is a molecule constantly being produced by all living cells. This is made possible when we eat the amino acid methionine, one of the building blocks of protein found in many common foods. Methionine causes a chemical reaction referred to as methylation.
Methylation is critical to life because it's the on-off switch that controls more than 100 processes in the body, including the production of chemical messengers in the brain. Without SAMe, methylation cannot occur at the rate our bodies require.
There have been numerous clinical studies involving about 1,400 people, which have consistency found that SAMe helped stave off depression.
In regards to SAMe as an arthritis remedy, the studies are also very promising. At least 12 clinical trials involving more than 22,000 people have found SAMe as effective as aspirin and ibuprofen for treating pain and inflammation, but without the adverse effects on the digestive tract.
If you suffer from arthritis or depression SAMe is probably worth a try. Check with your doctor first.
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Stephenie Karony is a certified health
and fitness instructor, a personal trainer and the author of
"Body Shaping with Free Weights." Send questions to her at
P.O. Box 262, Wailuku Hi. Her column appears on Wednesdays.