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Salmon

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Not all fish are created equal. Some are more healthy and sustainable options than others. Even those in the same family like salmon where you find:

  • Atlantic
  • Chinook
  • Sockeye
  • Pink
  • Coho

With all these choices available to us, how do we know which to select while out grocery shopping? Did you know that the term Atlantic salmon is misleading? Or that “fresh salmon” on a restaurant menu is more than likely not entirely true? “Atlantic” is put on the packaging and refers to farm-raised fish. Not fish caught in the Atlantic ocean and brought to your table.

The truth is that the wild Atlantic population has been severely depleted due to over-fishing. And despite aggressive conservation efforts, the numbers remain extremely low. So, to compensate for this Atlantic salmon farming began. In the last ten years, to respond to more demand, aquaculture has increased over 400%. This has had a significantly negative impact on the environment because of the dumping of fish excrement, uneaten food, and various chemicals into the oceans. Farming requires the use of commercial feed that contains antibiotics and potentially other contaminants which the fish retains. This is what we, in turn, eat.

There are better choices for our health. The first is to stay away from Atlantic, wild, and farmed salmon. Look for wild caught fish from Alaska such as Chinook (or king), coho, pink and sockeye. This is deemed the best as it is filled with nutrients, sustainable and approved by the animal welfare experts. Frozen tends to be less expensive than fresh, plus still retain the flavor with the flash-freezing that occurs on fishing boats. If canned salmon is your preference, look for the word “wild” on the label.

Bottom line, salmon is exceptionally healthy for you. It is a great source of protein, vitamin B12, selenium, omega-3, and the powerful antioxidant astaxanthin. If you make the better choice in terms of salmon type, the benefits only get better.

 

Eggs

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What came first, the chickens or the eggs?

While it really doesn’t matter which came first, what does matter is how one affects the other. We know that eggs come from chickens. We also know that because of this fact, the two are intimately related. In other words, what the chicken eats affects the egg eats as it develops inside the chicken, much like a baby inside their mother’s womb. So, based on the last blog regarding pasture-raised chickens, would you not agree that eggs from a pasture-raised chicken are more nutritious than those raised conventionally? And if given a choice, you would select the more nutritious option, right? When you walk the aisles at the grocery store or order two sunny-side up at a local restaurant, do you know what type it is?

Nutritionally, eggs are a great source of protein, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, lecithin (a fat that is essential in the cells of the body), and choline (a macronutrient important to liver function, brain development, and nerve function). Pasture-raised eggs have higher levels of these nutrients, plus higher levels of omega-3 fats and Vitamin D. Why? The pasture-raised chickens have access to plants and bugs that have a nutrition profile that is superior to the commercial grade feed they receive in cages.

So, what should you look for the next time you are grocery shopping?

  • Pastured
  • Certified-organic
  • Cage-free (also known as free-range)

Pastured eggs are from hens that had access to natural food sources. They may still be caged and eat some conventional feed thought. “Certified organic” means the chickens were raised outside of cages, even outdoors, and provided organic feed. Organic feed does not contain pesticides, any animal byproducts, or GMOs. In addition, the chickens are given no antibiotics. The key is to select eggs that are not only certified organic, but also pastured as well because of their higher nutritional content. Ironically, the terms “cage-free” and “free-range” don’t exactly mean what their names imply. For example, the Humane Farm Animal Care organization only guarantees 2 square feet of space for a chicken. Is that humane to you?

You truly get what you pay for. In terms of protein options, the pastured egg is still the most cost-effective than conventionally grown meat. Opt for the better option.

The Omnivore Chicken

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When you think of a chicken, what comes to mind? Is it Old MacDonald’s farm? He had quite a few animals on that farm, didn’t he? Chickens roaming the yard? Horses, cows and sheep in the field? Odds are it’s not a commercial farm that pops into your head; one with hundreds of animals literally on top of each other, cramped for space, never seeing the outdoors, simply there to eat. The image of the barn and green pastures is how animals were designed to be raised. Designed to eat the bounty that Mother Nature provides. A chicken in an omnivore. That means it eats both plant and animal food. Yes, that means bugs. Why do we feel then we should change the original diet of the animals that we consume? There is a price to be paid for doing that.

Let’s look at how our own body was designed. What price has our society paid by changing the diet our body was originally designed to eat? A staggering increase in Type 2 Diabetes, obesity, cancer, and heart disease to name a few. If this can happen to us, imagine what can happen to the animals who are forced to change their diet to grow faster so we can consume more? The chicken is one of those such animals.

Chicken is a popular protein choice because of its perceived health benefits and cost. Plus, it has a less damaging effect on the environment because they don’t produce methane gas like a cow does. However, knowing the different options available in the meat department will help you make more informed decisions at the grocery store. And, give your body more of the good stuff it was designed to eat.

Pasture-raised chickens are the way to go. They have a much healthier omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid ratio, 1:5 versus conventionally raised chickens which is 1:15. Pasture-raised chickens are also significantly higher in Vitamin D3 and have simply a better flavor. Here’s a bit more to consider:

  • Stick with labels that say “pasture-raised” or “pastured” because it indicates the chicken was able to forage for grass, bugs and seeds.
  • Beware of “free-range” as the term has no legal definition and does not mean that the chicken was ever outside.
  • Beware of “all-vegetarian diet” because the chicken is an omnivore.
  • “Hormone-free” means nothing because hormone use is not permitted in any poultry production.

Give your body what it recognizes and needs. Never settle for anything less. Your body will thank you.

“Where’s the Beef?”

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If you are old enough, you remember the ’80s Wendy’s commercial with the little old lady asking, “Where’s the beef?” The underlying message behind the commercial was to spotlight the significant patty size between Wendy’s and its competition. Today, we can ask ourselves the same question but under much difference circumstances. Perhaps it’s the fear of over-consuming red meat. Perhaps it’s due to the confusion brought about by all the different labels: grass-fed, pasture-raised, grass-finished, and natural. Sometimes it’s just seems easier to avoid it all together. The truth is that beef can be very good for us. But first we must understand why and how to make the best selection.

There’s a familiar saying, “you are what you eat.” When we hear that we think of avoiding processed foods and eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. But do we really think about the protein that we eat, like beef, chicken, pork or fish, and what they eat? Do we truly understand the correlation between what those animals eat and the fact that we also consume indirectly what they eat, as well? Or do we look at the packaging and figure that if the butcher at the grocery store put it out that it must be “safe” to eat?

Being safe means different things. Yes, a food item can be safe to eat. It is not rotten, spoiled, or contaminated. But what about the long-term effects of eating something that may be considered safe, yes is filled with unnecessary by-products such as GMOs, growth hormones, arsenic, or copper? Yes, you read that right. Beef that is conventional raised versus grass-fed is exposed to all that. And so are you.

Cattle that are raised in pastures, eating grass rather than processed grains, are nutritionally superior.

  • There are higher levels of Vitamin E, Zinc, and B12.
  • A much healthier ratio of Omega-6 and Omega-3 essential fatty acids (grain fed can have 20:1 and grass fed 3:1; experts recommend between 1:1 and 3:1). 
  • Antioxidant rich.
  • Provides a better source of immune-boosting linoleic acid.
  • Less likely to contain bacteria that is responsible for food-poisoning outbreaks.
  • Less likely to contain antibiotic resistant superbugs.

So what’s the best choice? Look for beef that is labeled USDA certified grass-fed. You can even go the local route and purchase beef from a farmer you know, like and trust.

OUR TEAM

Dr. Andrew Damron, Chiropractor

Why ChiropracticProfessional Experience Personal Information
Dr. Damron established DCW because he was fed up with the current health model. Statistics continue to show an increase in pharmaceutical prescriptions to patients every day. Although he does believe some medications are necessary, he believes the majority of what is prescribed is actually harmful to the patient’s long-term health, creating another set of healthcare issues as a result. Dr. Damron believes DCW’s unique approach to achieving overall wellness will revolutionize the healthcare industry through collaborative care utilizing chiropractic, massage therapy, rehabilitation, and nutrition. The DCW focus addresses the whole person versus a only symptom and uncovers the root cause. He also believes that education is vital to sustaining a healthier more vibrant lifestyle as well. His goal is to create a healthier society and a better place for our children to live.
Dr. Damron began his medical career with a Biology Degree from Wright State University in 2002. He went on to receive his Doctorate of Chiropractic from the prestigious Palmer College of Chiropractic in Port Orange, Florida in 2007. While attending Palmer, he had the opportunity to travel abroad to Madagascar and provide chiropractic care to the native Malagasy people. Dr. Damron has continued his post-graduate studies with a focus on nutrition, rehabilitation, and functional medicine.
Dr. Damron and his wife, Kristy, reside in West Chester with their two young children, Graden and Isabelle. An avid Buckeye fan, Dr. Damron enjoys playing the guitar in a band with his college friends, watching/playing any sport, cooking, reading, and attending concerts, especially the Dave Matthews Band and Foo Fighters.

Dr. Greg Washam, Chiropractor

Why ChiropracticProfessional Experience Personal Information
Dr. Washam was introduced to Chiropractic by his mother at the age of 16. She was working for a Chiropractor at the time, experiencing all the benefits that Chiropractic care had to offer, and thus began taking Dr. Washam and his siblings in for regular adjustments. Dr. Washam had been experiencing painful bouts of Strep Throat from the age of 8, which always included a 10 day course of antibiotics. While under Chiropractic care his doctor convinced him to avoid the antibiotics and receive Chiropractic adjustments instead. To his amazement, Dr. Washam’s strep throat symptoms had vanished within three days and he never had an issue from that point forward. He was so astounded by his experience that he fell in love with Chiropractic and decided that was the path for him. He wanted to commit his life to helping people through the power of Chiropractic, just as it had helped him.
Dr. Greg Washam began his college education at the University of Cincinnati, studying biology. After he made the decision to become a Chiropractor, he attended Logan College of Chiropractic in St. Louis, MO. While at Logan, he received his Bachelor of Science in Biology and Life Sciences in 2009. He received his Doctorate of Chiropractic in 2011. Dr. Washam was presented with various awards upon graduation. These included Dean’s List honors, the Senior Intern Assistant Award, and the Award of Excellence from the Division of Research. He has completed many hours of post graduate education focusing on nutrition, supplementation and injury recovery.
Dr. Washam and his wife Kassie reside in Mason, Oh with their two daughters, Lillian and Wren. In his free time, Dr. Washam enjoys cooking, exploring new restaurants, touring local craft breweries and reading. He also spends a great deal of time outdoors with his family and his Beagle, Willow. Dr. Washam is a music enthusiast and listens to all genres of music. He especially loves classic rock from the 60’s and 70’s. His favorite band of all time is Led Zeppelin.

Brooke Snyder, Operations Manager

Why DCWProfessional Experience Personal Information
Brooke had never been to a medical office where she really felt like they cared more about her than her money until she came to DCW as a patient. DCW made it so easy to arrange financial payment with, they were compassionate, dedicated and most importantly 100% honest. The team addressed all aspects of her health and well-being, above and beyond chiropractic care. Her initial impression of chiropractic offices were that they would only adjust then send her on her way. She realized that she was wrong. Because of her experience as a patient at DCW she realized she wanted to pursue a career within it. She saw everything she wanted in healthcare at DCW. Finally, a place where patient care really comes first! She comes to DCW with a degree in Nursing and a background in finance. When someone asks her “Why DCW?” she cannot think of one reason why not.
Brooke has a background in business finance and computer technology prior to the start of her medical career. She attended Southern State and obtained an Associate’s Degree in Science, R.N. Sh began working from DCW in December of 2014.
Brooke has five beautiful girls from 15 to 6 years old. She is married to Jamey Snyder who has two boys of his own. She lives on a two acre farm in the country with horses, dogs, cats, and a pot belly pig. Brooke enjoys spending time with her very active family and watching their kids play sports.

Nicole Foreman, Licensed Massage Therapist

Why MassageProfessional Experience Personal Information
Nicole always wanted a career that was focused on helping people. It wasn’t until she drove past the Dayton School of Medical Massage on a daily basis that it became clear what she was meant to do. She enrolled as soon as she could and it has been the best decision she has ever made. She loves the feeling of knowing she has alleviated someone’s pain and possibly made their day better in some way. She had been working alongside chiropractors for over 7 years before joining the DCW team. Before DCW she never really felt her opinions and insights were valued or even asked for, which she felt hindered patient care and the effectiveness of each treatment. At DCW she feels valued and part of a practice that is focused on changing the approach of wellness with cohesive and effective patient care.
Nicole is a graduate of the Dayton School of Medical Massage and obtained her license in 2008. She utilizes Deep Tissue, Swedish and Thai massage techniques to relieve pain, tension, and stress while increasing range of motion and flexibility.
Nicole is married to her husband of 5 years and they one daughter, Rylee, and one child on the way due in September 2016. As a family they enjoy camping, hiking and spending time at the lake during the summer.

Erika Pantona, Insurance Specialist

Why DCWProfessional Experience Personal Information
Erika started coming to DCW in 2010 after spending two years in substantial pain after an injury. She had spent those two years at various specialists and taking medications to simply get up in the morning due to the pain. She was 18 when she found herself facing a major, life altering surgery (SI Fusion) and realized there must be another way. When she began her treatment plan at DCW she started to have days with little or no pain. She stopped taking her medications and realized they had been affecting her overall mood. In 2015 Erika joined the DCW team because they allowed her to live her life once again. She wants to prevent others from living in pain like she did unnecessarily, and to receive the benefits of chiropractic care.
Erika is well versed in the insurance industry with her previous employment at Express Scripts and Anthem.
Erika has two siblings and resides in Liberty Township. In her spare time she enjoys traveling and hiking with her family.

Amy Faris, Patient Care Coordinator

Why DCWProfessional Experience Personal Information
After moving to Ohio in 2010, I was in need of some relief from minor pain associated with working in customer service fields for 15 years. I was interested in seeking alternative forms of therapy and found a chiropractor in our small town. After going for a few visits, the therapy seemed somewhat outdated compared to what I had researched. In talking with my husband, he remembered that he knew someone who was a chiropractor. After just a few visits with Dr. Damron, I definitely noticed a difference in his techniques and style. It was nice to see results and feel like I was being listened to as a patient, not just heard…something you don’t always feel with doctors. After being a patient for several years, the opportunity came about to join the DCW team. It would be something different from what I had done in my past, however I knew my passion for working with people would translate well into helping patients receive the best care possible. I believed in the mission of DCW as a patient, and I am excited to be part of living that mission every day. 
 I am originally from St. Louis, MO. I graduated from the University of Missouri – Columbia with a degree in Secondary Education – Language Arts. I worked in restaurant/catering management for several years before starting a career in retail management and training.
In that position, I met my husband, Matt, who is from Wilmington, OH. After we got married in 2010, I moved to Wilmington. Realizing retail wasn’t where my heart was any longer, I began working as a substitute teacher in the Clinton County area. Matt and I live in Wilmington with our 6 year old German Shepard, Dale. I enjoy camping, boating, riding 4-wheelers, and spending time with family and friends. I love St. Louis Cardinals baseball and am a recently converted Cincinnati Bengals fan.

Hours

Monday 9-1 & 2-6

Tuesday 9-1 & 2-6

Wednesday 9-1 & 2-6

Thursday 9-1 & 2-6

Friday 8-11

Saturday and Sunday CLOSED

Contact information

 3187 Western Row Road Suite 114
    Maineville, OH 45039

Office:
     (513) 770-3434

Email:
    info@damronchiropractic.com