The Health Benefits of Regular Sauna Use
Hello, I’m Dr. Jacob Panka, a Naturopathic Doctor at Panka Natural Health with a Master of Science in Integrative Medicine Research. Today, I want to share insights into the health benefits of regular sauna use, combining both my professional expertise and personal experiences.
After over a year of incorporating sauna sessions into my routine, I’ve observed significant improvements in how my body responds to heat. Beyond the science, the sauna has become a space where I unwind, reflect, and reconnect with my well-being.
Nutrient Spotlight: Foods Rich in Calcium
Calcium is essential for strong bones, muscle function, and heart health. It works alongside nutrients like vitamins D, K2, and magnesium to ensure proper absorption and bone deposition. Without enough calcium, the body pulls it from bones, leading to brittleness and a higher risk of fractures or osteoporosis. While dairy is a well-known source, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds are excellent calcium-rich alternatives.
The Similarities of Functional & Naturopathic Medicine
Today, I want to shed some light on how functional medicine and naturopathic medicine share a common philosophy that focuses on treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. This holistic approach is at the heart of how we practice healthcare here at Panka Natural Health.
Sunburn Protection with Lycopene-Rich Foods
It’s June, meaning warmer days and more sun exposure when spending time outdoors. While sunscreen and protective clothing are essential tools in the fight against sunburn, did you know that your diet can also play a significant role in protecting your skin against UV rays?
The Hidden Risks of Eating Locally Caught Fish: Understanding PFAS Contamination
Fishing is a cherished pastime for many, offering a way to connect with nature and enjoy fresh catches. However, recent studies have highlighted a concerning aspect of consuming locally caught freshwater fish: contamination from PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances).
Cardio vs. HIIT: Which Is Right for You?
Cardio vs. HIIT: Which Is Right for You? Exercise is a great tool for improving your health. To better understand the benefits of exercise, we need to understand two popular ways of exercising. Here, let’s explore aerobic exercise and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
Personalized Fitness: Tailoring Your Workouts with Target Heart Rate
In this blog, we want to help you obtain your target heart rate, a valuable tool to maximize the health benefits of every workout. Whether it's burning fat, losing weight, or simply getting fit, monitoring your heart rate during exercise ensures you're on the right track. Even if you've been couch surfing a little too long, you can start by easing into the lower end of your target heart rate range. So, let's dive into the basics.
Breaking the Fast: Your Guide to a Stellar Morning Meal
Beyond having a stellar morning from a good quality meal, breakfast helps prevent chronic disease. Eating breakfast daily improves cholesterol values, regulates blood sugar, promotes fat loss, and lowers your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and gallstones.
Fiber Focus: The Top Foods and Supplements to Keep You Regular
Don’t underestimate the power of fiber for your overall health! Fiber benefits your health by regulating bowel movements and lowering your risk of several diseases, including obesity, heart disease, type two diabetes, stroke, and some cancers. Here’s a list of foods and supplements to help you achieve your daily fiber goal.
Lab Testing: Looking Outside the Reference Range
Lab values are pieces of the whole picture. Lab values within the “normal reference range” should be evaluated in detail. Functional interpretation of clinical laboratory testing is important because it provides a more comprehensive understanding of a patient's health status, considers the individual's unique circumstances, and allows healthcare providers to identify patterns and trends that may not be immediately apparent from the individual test.
Naturopathic First Aid Kit
I love having my first aid kit at home well-stocked so that I have what I need when an illness or injury happens and don’t have to run to the store. Below is a list of my favorite dietary supplements and herbal medicines to have on hand at home.
Health Alerts for Eden Prairie Spring Water
Driving along Flying Cloud Drive to Eden Prairie, we found two local springs improved with pipes delivering water to the public. The two springs I refer to are the Frederick-Miller Spring (FMS) and the Richard T. Anderson Conservation Area Spring (RTAS). Many local Minnesotans from Chanhassen, Shakopee, and the surrounding areas fill up tanks for drinking water from these springs.
What to Expect from a Naturopathic Doctor
Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are your allies in an increasingly complex healthcare system that has less and less time to listen and answer your questions. NDs prioritize patient care and work with you and your current medical team to make the best decisions for your health. NDs support and treat many health concerns; however, we specialize in chronic disease!
Naturopathic Medicine Provides a Holistic Approach to Health
Naturopathic medicine provides a holistic approach to health that complements conventional care. By treating the whole person instead of the symptoms alone, naturopathic medicine promotes sustainable wellness.