Sensational Skin Divine Detox

For a divine detox this year go deep. Seek out an acupuncturist who knows about anti-aging and facial rejuvenation. There are specific acupuncture points on the body that improve the Liver's function aiding in detoxification of your entire body dramatically improving your skin's brilliance. A skilled herbalist can prescribe herbal medicine to slow aging, diminish wrinkles and fade liver spots. The same prescription can be applied topically to your face with a yogurt mask. This enhances the bio-available ingredients absorption producing glowing skin. The acupuncture improves tone, significantly reduces wrinkles and brings radiance to a dull complexion.
Hydrating moistens your skin externally and helps your body naturally detoxify. Be sure to drink a minimum of 64 oz of filtered water daily (the average person drinks 18 oz daily). Keep up with your vitamins particularly EPA/DHA Fish oils that are moistening to the skin 1,200 mg daily.
For sensational skin this is a must do:

Include 3,000 mg of vitamin C and drink 3 cups of Green Tea daily to slow aging and improve the quality of your skin. Apply the steeped tea bags as a facial mask to diminish your brown spots for 20 minutes a week.



Here are My Top Three Detox Anti-Aging products of 2010.
These go easy on your over burdened liver and kidneys from holiday indulgences. Due to their natural ingredients they are easier for your body to process meaning less toxicity in your body expressing more radiant skin:



Radiance Cleanser from Burt's Bees with Coconut and Sunflower oils with Jojoba beads and fruit acids with royal jelly. It's cleansing, gently exfoliating and makes your skin baby soft.



Jason Natural Cosmetics Hyper-C Serum Anti-Aging Therapy for a deep moisturizer that smells great and slows the aging process.


Sierra Sage Aloe-E Daily Skin Repair Salve and Eye Cream- It is organic, luscious and fabulously moisturizing for my eyes, lip creases and dry hands. You can buy all of these products directly from American Acupuncture Center in Eagle, Idaho. 

Hurting Heads

Headaches are debilitating for millions of people every year. Most people pop pills when they feel a migraine or headache emerging. However, a healthier and safer option is actually acupuncture. Researchers from the prestigious Duke University Medical Center analyzed studies comparing acupuncture to over-the-counter and prescription medications, they reported that a whopping 62% of acupuncture patients complained of fewer and less painful headaches compared to only 45% of those taking drugs.

Next to back pain, headaches and migraines are the most common health problem we treat. 

At American Acupuncture Center we customize each patients acupuncture treatment and herbal prescription tailored specifically to their headache pain. Frequency, location, duration and triggers all affect our personalized medical advice.

Kick the Crying Habit- How to Soothe a Crying Baby

As a mother of two and practitioner whose expertise is infertility and pediatrics I have a lot of advice to give. Both of my children suffered from GERD (severe reflux) and one had colic. If the following suggestions don't succeed in soothing your baby demand to see a specialist where they scope your babies throat to diagnose GERD. If your pediatrician refuses, get another pediatrician immediately.


Here are soothing tips to stop crying. Try these and then go with whatever comes to mind as you may know better than anyone how to soothe your own baby. What works for one baby or parent doesn't always work for another.

1. A warm bath (this was the ONLY guarantee for my colicky son not to cry)

2. Pat your baby's back so their cheeks jiggle in one of the following positions: over the shoulder, on your knee or lying on its' tummy (for GERD babies upright is key)

3. Rock your baby with the vacuum going. You can also buy vacuum and hair dryer CD's from the Colic Shop Online. We used headphones on our colicky son and it worked moderately well.

4. Change of scenery and get into nature. This helps babies work out the stress and they love the different things to look at. For GERD babies a Baby Bjorn or upright carrier is the best for it keeps them upright. For other babies, try a sling.


www.AmericanAcu.com Kristen N. Burris, L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M. is a nationally recognized Acupuncturist and Herbalist who has been featured in Parenting Magazine, Natural Health Magazine, National Public Radio (NPR) and KUSI TV News. Ms. Burris' expertise includes: pediatrics, women’s health, fertility, pregnancy, difficult menstrual cycles, menopausal symptoms, digestive problems, and pain. Ms. Burris has also taught acupuncture to graduate students at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. She and her husband Tony Burris, L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M treat patients with acupuncture, herbal medicine and nutrition as natural medicine in their family-owned, private practice, American Acupuncture Center in Eagle, Idaho. Ms. Burris has treated patients at Top Fertility Centers Nationwide, San Diego Hospice, University of California in San Diego (UCSD) Integrative Clinic, and for UCSD Dental Study. Ms Burris was the creator of fertility retreats for couples and served on the board of RESOLVE, the non-profit organization supporting couples with infertility.

Healthy Kids Snacks

I am both a mother of two boys (one a picky eater) and an advocate of "food as medicine" serving whole foods to my family every day. I teach patients how to eat for life, healthily and deliciously.


Power Packed Pudding

This is a favorite of my boys and they think they are getting a treat when it's loaded with Omega-3's, unsaturated vegetable proteins, healthy fats and it's so good they ask for more.

Parfait bowls and Curly Straws make this recipe a winner every time. Buy organic if you can:

1 Banana

1 avocado ripe

1/8 cup of soft tofu

1/2 cup of healthy yogurt shake raspberry is our favorite

8 cashews

1 TBS. Cocoa Powder unsweetened

1 TBS. Pure Maple Syrup

1 TBS. Ground Flax Seeds

Blend until really smooth and enjoy!
For an extra power packed boost add 1 Tsp. of Seaweed Granules or 1 Tbs. of Powdered Greens Drink you can find at your local Co-op



Easy Snack That Tastes Delicious:

Hint: Have your child shake on seaweed granules to their liking:



Orville Redenbacher Popcorn with Olive Oil and herbs

Pop

Sprinkle on 1 Tsp of Seaweed Granules

Pour into brown paper bags for movie style feel

Seaweed is packed with Calcium and Cancer fighting compounds and the olive oil has heart healthy oil that tastes great!

50 and Fabulous: Energy, Mood and Youthful You!

For women in their 50's hormones dive, energy wanes and the ravages of time swallow our confidence. There are so many things a woman can do to enhance her natural, beautiful vibrancy within.




For anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, heart-healthy oil choose Nordic Naturals Pro Omega Longevity with Green Tea Extract and Resveratrol. This will boost your mood along with improving your longevity.



Vitamin D3 the new Golden Child- If you notice a drop in your mood and motivation as you have aged add 5,000 i.u. of Vitamin D3. Studies have proven D3 elevates your mood and helps build bone to prevent osteoporosis and it is quite difficult to get that much in your diet alone.



Green Goddess- Be sure to get your greens. Make kale salads (an excellent source of chlorophyll, calcium, iron and vitamin A), saute spinach for a side-dish, and sprinkle seaweed on your popcorn. For a super boost of cancer fighting, energy bolstering greens drink that tastes great we recommend Greens First bought through health care practitioners.



Youthful You- For the woman whose energy is drained due to her worry lines and rapid aging acupuncture with facial rejuvenation is the key to her success. A series of ten can takes years off of a woman's face, increase her energy and ward off depression. The baby-fine needles strengthen and tone muscles and lessen the appearance of wrinkles to create a younger, happier you.



www.AmericanAcu.com Kristen N. Burris, L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M. is a nationally recognized Acupuncturist and Herbalist who has been featured in Parenting Magazine, Natural Health Magazine, National Public Radio (NPR) and KUSI TV News. Ms. Burris' expertise includes: women’s health, anti-aging, fertility, pregnancy, difficult menstrual cycles, menopausal symptoms, digestive problems, and pain. Ms. Burris has also taught acupuncture to graduate students at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. She and her husband Tony Burris, L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M treat patients with acupuncture, herbal medicine and nutrition as natural medicine in their family-owned, private practice, American Acupuncture Center in Eagle, Idaho. Ms. Burris has treated patients at Top Fertility Centers Nationwide, San Diego Hospice, University of California in San Diego (UCSD) Integrative Clinic, and for UCSD Dental Study. Ms Burris was the creator of fertility retreats for couples and served on the board of RESOLVE, the non-profit organization supporting couples with infertility.

Kristen Burris L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M.

Founder and Medical Director
American Acupuncture Center
128 S. Eagle Road
Eagle, Id 83616
(208) 938-1277

www.AmericanAcu.com
http://FertilityFound.blogspot.com/
http://idahoacupuncture.blogspot.com/

Irritable Bowel: Explosive Results with Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine

The good news is: You have viable options that improve your quality of life and restore proper function of your digestive system in it's entirety. An increasing number of studies have been conducted on treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) with Traditional Chinese medicine including Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, with promising results. These studies prove that Acupuncture and Herbal medicine can effectively treat IBS safely and with drug-free medicine.


What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Not every person presents with identical symptomology but each patient must present with at least three aggravating symptoms listed below. Irritable bowel syndrome is described from a western medical perspective as spastic colon or mucus colitis affecting irregular bowel movement 25% of the time. Symptoms vary for each individual who is affected by this devastating syndrome. It is a motility disorder (involving abnormal movement) of the small and large intestines often accompanied by pain, mucus and blood.

Symptoms of IBS include:

Constipation

Diarrhea

Abdominal Cramping

Abdominal Pain

Gas

Bloating

Nausea

Straining or Urgency

Feeling of Incomplete Evacuation

Mucus and or Blood with Bowel Movement

Altered Stool Frequency

Altered Stool Formation (Hard or Soft)
Stress always exacerbates the symptoms and often triggers an episode. A significant number of women are affected more often by IBS than men and it's estimated that 10-20 percent of all Americans are affected by symptoms of IBS. Very few know their options using Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine and all patients are amazed at how quickly they heal. 
IBS in Traditional Chinese Medicine Terms:

In Chinese Medical terms we refer to organ systems we are familiar with from western bio-medical sciences. However, when we see patterns affecting these organs we do not need for patients to see doctors about the imabalances. If we are concerned about your liver or large instestine or any other organ we wil refer you to your doctor immediately. Irritable Bowel is most effectively treated with Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine and Dietary Changes. IBS is frequently diagnosed as a disharmony between the liver and the spleen. The liver is responsible for the smooth flow of energy, motility and blood throughout the body. This flow can be disrupted by emotions or stress, causing stagnation causing colicy pain in the abdominal area.
Traditional Chinese medicine perceives the spleen as having a more complex function in the body than that of a western bio-medical perspective. The spleen is responsible for proper digestion and transforming food into energy. It is also responsible for holding things appropriately including emotions (particularly worry), bowels and blood. As we see in the patient with IBS they tend to worry or stress, they often cannot hold their bowels and get diarrhea which is often laced with blood.
How Does One Get IBS?

The spleen can be weakened by a number of factors including:

Worrying

Bleeding Excessively

Genetic Inheritance

Overeating

Lack of Exercise

Chronic Fatigue

Over-working

Over Thinking or Obsessing
When the spleen is weaken by the above culprits and the liver is stressed, the liver overacts on the spleen manifesting as symptoms of IBS wreaking havoc on the unsuspecting person.
A liver and spleen disharmony is reflected by the short-term loss of appetite and/or a bout of constipation or diarrhea that occurs during an emotional upset. In patients with IBS the disharmony occurs over time. The emotional traumas take place over a long period of time weakening the Spleen, aggravating the Liver thus negatively affecting the digestive system creating chronic symptoms of IBS for years, even decades.



What To Do If I Suspect I Have IBS?


1. Get Acupuncture & A Personalized Herbal Prescription to:

Strengthen the Spleen

Smooth the Liver

Calm the Large & Small Intestines

Arrest Diarrhea

Move Constipation

Alleviate Stress

2. Take Tai Chi or Meditation Class to Reduce Stres and Increase Exercise

3. Nutritional Consult from An Herbalist to Eliminate Triggers like: Fried Foods, Alchohol and Chocolate

4. Take a Pharmaceutical Grade Pro-Biotic from Metagenics for Irritable Bowel

5. Increase Time Doing Things That Relax You:
Intercourse, Exercise, Dates, Tea with a Friend, Reading, Massages

Acupuncturists and Herbalists use a variety of modalities to treat a liver and spleen disharmony. We always use acupuncture, prescribe indivdualized Chinese herbal formula, with dietary and lifestyle changes to facilitate healing.




Irritable Bowel is very easily treated with Acupuncture and Herbal medicine. Infants, children and adults benefit from treatment that is safe, natural and effective.  Even though IBS itself is not life-threatening, inflammation of the bowels can lead to serious, life-threatening conditions that often need surgeries to remove parts or all of your colon. Stop the suffering and inflammation now before it's too late.

Healthy Home Medicine Cabinet-Accessible and Affordable

These unsuspecting natural healers are a must-have for your medicine cabinet. They are all completely natural, affordable and effective. Here is what to stock up on:


Good Natured Ginger: Slice it like a carrot and add to tea to soothe a nauseous tummy from the flu or morning sickness. The other side: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe achy muscles and joints from arthritis, fibromyalgia or an over-zealous attempt at removing snow for the walkway.

Honey Home Remedy: Soothes sore throats and suppresses the urge to cough. The other side of Honey: It's anti-biotic properties are great to coat over small cuts naturally killing germs that cause infection.

Vinegar: The very valuable vinegar is commonly used to soothe insect bits and stings.
The other sides to vinegar:
          Stops Bleeding: Nose bleeds, spitting up of blood and for fainting from anemia after giving birth.
         Ameliorates Athlete's Foot: Soak Feet daily in vinegar to rid the feet of this aggressive fungus.
         Neutralizes Nasty Bugs: Vinegar is effective in neutralizing poisons in the body from food poisoning and removing parasites from raw fruits and vegetables. For nausea and food poisoning take 1/4 tsp. every 15 minutes until symptoms subside. For cleaning fruits and veggies from harmful parasites and harmful microorganisms soak produce 1/4 cup in a sink full of water for 10 minutes, rinse then eat or cook.

Cancer Support: Healing Bodies Soaring Spirits

Our stories are uplifting, positive and encouraging. Our patients with cancer go boogie-boarding in the wild ocean waves, enjoy deeply connected intimacy with their husbands and feel surprisingly good during chemo-therapy and radiation treatments. Not your typical image of a woman going through some of the most intensive medical treatments available today.
Each woman is as unique as her history, her smile, and even her side-effects from chemo-therapy and radiation. Through Acupuncture and time-tested Herbal Medicine we bring life back into depressed, scared, even dieing women. During treatment they see the joy in life again and are hopeful for the future. Most of our patients out-live their doctors premonitions of presumed time-lines by years. Time and time again patients come in saying their doctor can't believe how well they are doing. They often say "Whatever you are doing, keep doing it!"
Here is a recent study proving the effectiveness of our medicine:

Acupuncture is as effective and longer-lasting in managing the common debilitating side effects of hot flashes, night sweats, and excessive sweating (vasomotor symptoms) associated with breast cancer treatment and has no treatment side effects compared to conventional drug therapy, according to a first-of-its-kind study presented September 24, 2008, at the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology’s 50th Annual Meeting in Boston.

We empower our patients by boosting their immunity, reducing their nauseousness and increasing warmth to their extremities while cooling their hot flashes.  This enables women to tolerate the often brutal medicine that is attempting to save their life.  We love healing the body and the spirit as women journey through this emotional yet powerful challenge in their life.  Kale powder, fish oil and exotic mushrooms attack their cancer, elevate their immunity and strengthen their bodies healing potential combating their debilitating disease.   

We heal their bodies and watch their spirits rise.

http://www.americanacu.com/ Kristen N. Burris, L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M. is a nationally recognized Acupuncturist and Herbalist who has been featured in Parenting Magazine, Natural Health Magazine, National Public Radio (NPR) and KUSI TV News. Ms. Burris' expertise includes: cancer support, women’s health, fertility, pregnancy, difficult menstrual cycles, menopausal symptoms, digestive problems, and pain. Ms. Burris has also taught acupuncture to graduate students at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. She and her husband Tony Burris, L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M treat patients with acupuncture, herbal medicine and nutrition as natural medicine in their family-owned, private practice, American Acupuncture Center in Eagle, Idaho. Ms. Burris has treated patients at Top Fertility Centers Nationwide, San Diego Hospice, University of California in San Diego (UCSD) Integrative Clinic, and for UCSD Dental Study.

Peri-Menopause: It's the Pits!

During Peri-menopause our hormones take a dramatic dive resulting in many of the same frustrations we thought we left behind in our teens: acne, irritability and even under arm odor.


A simple natural remedy: Black Tea Bags. Simply brew a cup of tea that has black tea leaves (think English Breakfast) and apply the tea bags to the underarms. Be sure to layer with towels as you lie in bed with tea bags under your arms as they do stain).
Allow the tea to penetrate the entire armpit for 10 minutes.

The tannins kill bad smelling bacteria that arises for excessive sweating during hot flashes.

Additional help comes from internally cleansing the liver which contributes to all of the emotional and frustrating changes during menopause. A skilled herbalist can prescribe a specific herbal prescription to aid in reducing body odor. Be sure to also include lots of dark, leafy greens including kale and seaweed in your diet during this transition. They cleanse the liver and reduce hormonal fluctuations and mood swings.

Who Am I?

About Me: I'm fiery, passionate, sensitive and loving. I'm in awe of nature and its healing properties. I am social, athletic and enjoy friendships immensely but my family always comes first. I am moved by music, photography and belly-deep laughter. I believe food is medicine: "Earth to Table" & "If You Can't Read It Don't Eat It!" I am fascinated with the healing potential within every person no matter how ill they may be. I am a vessel for work that is beyond my comprehension and I am blessed and grateful for the opportunity to witness miracles every day.


Specialty: Infertility, Women's Health and Menstrual Problems. I treat the full circle of life: enhancing a woman's ability to conceive, preventing hysterectomies during menopause and alleviating pain. I am passionate about women's health and educating them about their choices integrating Acupuncture and Herbal medicine with traditional allopathic medicine.
About My Practice: I am the owner of American Acupuncture Center and an advocate for women helping them navigate the complex choices available in medicine. My heart is in every treatment, listening with a tender ear and lending compassionate advice. I am a sister, mother, friend and healer. I understand what it is to suffer. I believe there are many paths to healing, living and even dieing. I warm wombs to aid conception. I tend to broken spirits trampled by medicine that has failed them. I journey with my patients during chemotherapy watching their spirits soar as their horrific side-effects dissipate. As pain melts from my patients' bodies I witness a transformation in all aspects of their life. When a child is born to an "infertile" mother I know my work on Earth is done. I feel complete and in awe of the miraculousness of life, God and this profound medicine we call alternative.

Advice: Never, never, never, give up. You have options that are viable, profound forms of medicine within your reach. Kindness heals. Be kind to yourself and your suffering. Find the child within that is broken and wrap your arms around her to heal. Eat well, drink green tea, and laugh often.

Hot Holiday Dishes

Some quick recipes to boost your sex drive, increase energy and wow your taste buds!

Relaxation Effect: For Stressed out individuals magnesium is your relaxation remedy. Magnesium stop vasospasm in heart disorders, headaches and even constipated bowels. Eat more of whole grains, beans, vegetables, seaweed, nuts, seeds and even dark chocolate.


Recipe: Drizzle bubbling warm dark chocolate loaded with anti-oxidants over pecans and "salt" with seaweed granules for a delectable sex enhancing, stress-busting, dessert.
2 Cups Organic Pecans spread over waxed paper
1 lb. bar of Organic Dark Cacao Chocolate melt over low heat for several minutes, stirring constantly
Drizzle warm chocolate over nuts
Sprinkle seaweed granules
Add Sea Salt to taste

For a super boost of anti-oxidants sprinkle 1/4 cup each chopped dried organic blueberries and cranberries on top of pecans before drizzling chocolate. Everyone will want this recipe no doubt!

Allow to cool and enjoy!


Sexy Stock: Keep Lamb ready for the making as it invigorates the sexual response in women by warming them internally. Enhance this effect by rubbing the meat with anti-oxidant rich extra virgin olive oil, garlic, ginger, cardamon, and cinnamon for an intense rendez-vous. The anti-inflammatory properties and heart health properties of the spices and olive oil increase blood circulation making men more virile.

Recipe:
6 Lamb Chops
2 Tbs olive oil
6 cloves of garlic, minced
2 inches of ginger, grated
1 tsp. Cinnamon
1 tsp. Cardamon
1/2 tsp. Chopped Rosemary
Bake in oven at 375 for 20 minutes or until slightly pink on the inside of thickest chop

Foods to Avoid: Loaded with saturated fats making you feel sluggish, depressed and squashing sexual desire:
Pie crusts: Most are made with shortening, clogging arteries and increasing free radicals in the body. Don't despair indulge by eating the insides of the pie and finish with anti-oxidant rich cappuccino spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg for heart healthy touch.

Secrets for Great Looking Skin

Being an Acupuncturist and Herbalist somehow it's inferred that I must have perfect health, make perfect food choices, and thereby have perfect skin. I do try however, I am human and do have vices. The number one thing I have noticed that has slowed my aging is a product called GreensFirst. It's a powdered drink that contains 49 super foods, including: green tea, kelp, spirulina, aloe and pro-biotics. I drink this daily and often people think I am younger than my friends by about 5 years. My husband too drinks it and everyone thinks were are the same age (he is 5 years older than I). I am currently 37 years young and my husband 42.


The dark leafy greens and milk thistle support the liver to help with skin tone and decrease liver spots. The high levels of anti-oxidants reduce free radicals slowing the aging process reflective in our skin. This also helps build blood for those who gave birth or suffer from anemia. This is a God-send for nothing ages a woman faster than being blood deficient leaving skin wrinkled and dry. The aloe, tumeric and berries reduce inflammation that speeds aging.

For an added boost before special events I apply a homemade mask of either strawberries or pineapple. The natural acids dissolve your top layer of dead skin revealing a youthful, more vibrant you in only 20 minutes.

Once every five years I do facial rejuvenation with acupuncture and topical herbs to slow aging. This is very dramatic and can make people look years younger after ten treatments. It has become very popular amongst the Hollywood elite.





www.AmericanAcu.com Kristen N. Burris, L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M. is a nationally recognized Acupuncturist and Herbalist who has been featured in Parenting Magazine, Natural Health Magazine, National Public Radio (NPR) and KUSI TV News. Ms. Burris' expertise includes: women’s health, anti-aging, fertility, pregnancy, difficult menstrual cycles, menopausal symptoms, digestive problems, and pain. Ms. Burris has also taught acupuncture to graduate students at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. She and her husband Tony Burris, L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M treat patients with acupuncture, herbal medicine and nutrition as natural medicine in their family-owned, private practice, American Acupuncture Center in Eagle, Idaho. Ms. Burris has treated patients at Top Fertility Centers Nationwide, San Diego Hospice, University of California in San Diego (UCSD) Integrative Clinic, and for UCSD Dental Study.

Detox Tea Detriment

Detox Teas are attracting a lot of attention these days for weight loss, increased energy, and general detoxification of the body. The problem with many of these teas is that they are laced with stimulants that increase peristalsis causing bowel cramping, pain and diarrhea. Many of the teas actually leave the consumer more fatigued with a weakened digestive system.


Teas to avoid includes ingredients with purgatives stimulating the bowel aggressively including: Da Huang (Rhubarb Root) and Mang Xiao (Mirabilite or Glauber's Salt) these herbs should only be prescribed by a skilled Herbalist.

Teas that benefit digestion and are mild in effect and are safe for most include: Ginger, Dandelion Root, Peppermint, Fennel and Orange Peel.

Detox teas that include licorice should be avoided with people who have high blood pressure as this herb tends to raise blood pressure.

The best way to detox is to eliminate processed foods, alcohol, cigarettes and stressors in your life. Increase dark leafy greens, Vitamin C consumption (up to 5,000 milligrams), Take EPA/DHA Fish Oil 1,200 mg, and drink Green Tea daily. For an extra boost drink Raw Apple Cider Vinegar 2 TBs. for improved digestion and neutralizing toxins in the body.

For a more serious approach to detoxification I like the 28 Day Detoxification program in The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook- Whole Foods Recipes for Personal and Planetary Health by Alissa Segersten and Tom Malterre, M.S., C.N. --



www.AmericanAcu.com Kristen N. Burris, L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M. is a nationally recognized Acupuncturist and Herbalist who has been featured in Parenting Magazine, Natural Health Magazine, National Public Radio (NPR) and KUSI TV News. Ms. Burris' expertise includes: women’s health, fertility, pregnancy, difficult menstrual cycles, menopausal symptoms, digestive problems, and pain. Ms. Burris has also taught acupuncture to graduate students at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. She and her husband Tony Burris, L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M treat patients with acupuncture, herbal medicine and nutrition as natural medicine in their family-owned, private practice, American Acupuncture Center in Eagle, Idaho. Ms. Burris has treated patients at Top Fertility Centers Nationwide, San Diego Hospice, University of California in San Diego (UCSD) Integrative Clinic, and for UCSD Dental Study.

Sleeping Tips for your Newborn Baby

You probably have read several books about newborns already and you may feel overwhelmed even before your baby is born.


The best thing you can do for your baby is to listen to your heart, your inner voice and your instincts. What worked for your sister may not work for your baby. Here are some basic guidelines to keep your mind at ease and get as much rest as you and your baby can.


Never Wake a Sleeping Baby- Follow this rule as often as possible rearranging your life for a couple of weeks around your baby. She will be happier and will sleep longer day and night. (The only time not to abide by this rule is if your baby is not thriving and must wake to be fed)


Co-Sleeper for Easy Access- This is fantastic for quiet babies who nurse easily. The co-sleeper attaches to the bed so there are now worries about rolling on your baby. If your baby snorts and makes funny noises putting him in his own room with a monitor may be better for you at night.


Night-time Repetitive Routine- Make your night-time routine different from all other nap times yet be sure torepeat an identical process every evening. You could sing songs before bed or play the same soft song on a CD player or you may even add lavender to an aroma therapy ball. This way your baby will learn quickly it's time to sleep for a longer stretch.


If your baby is a terrible sleeper i.e. wakes every 2 hours to be fed, cries with feedings and when you change his diaper or lay him down this may be a serious indication that he has GERD gastroesphogeal reflux disease. He will need to see a specialist and may need to be medicated. In the meantime allow him to sleep in her swing, bouncy seat or buy a special sling to allow gravity to pull down the acid. Acupuncture for infants can also relieve some symptoms.


http://www.americanacu.com/ Kristen N. Burris, L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M. is a nationally recognized Acupuncturist and Herbalist who has been featured in Parenting Magazine, Natural Health Magazine, National Public Radio (NPR) and KUSI TV News. Ms. Burris' expertise includes pediatrics with natural medicine giving thousands of treatments to babies as young as one week old. Children come for all types of chronic medical problems including: colic, GERD, ADD, constipation, allergies, chronic ear infections and digestive problems. She and her husband Tony Burris, L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M treat patients with acupuncture, herbal medicine and nutrition as natural medicine in their family-owned, private practice, American Acupuncture Center in Eagle, Idaho.



-

God Awful Gout

In my practice I treat Gout with diet, acupuncture and herbal medicine. I have personal experience with Gout being surprised by it's fiery pain when I was 3 months pregnant and carrying around my one year old on my hip. I was convinced I had broken my foot it was so excruciatingly painful. As I go hobbling into my favorite orthopaedist's office I was shocked when 1. he didn't even touch my foot and 2. made no dietary recommendations to treat Gout. Due to my pregnancy I was unable to treat it from a western perspective with toxic drugs anyways. It was a quick and worthless $350 visit to my local doc.




I knew immediately I needed foods to neutralize uric acid in my body including: cherries, blueberries, and strawberries. I was also keen to avoid purine-rich foods that were already part of my pregnancy no-no list: shellfish, alcohol, organ meat, gravies; and included some surprises like: spinach, asparagus, mushrooms, and cauliflower.



Gout attacks are caused by excessive deposit of uric acid in the joints (particularly the large toe) that crystallize and cause unbearable pain. Some people experience a rapid onset out of the blue, that is until they talk to me.  I had one patient who couldn't understand why she had unrelenting pain in her feet.  After further inquiry I suspected Gout.  Again, baffled she felt that was impossible "it was an old man's disease".  After I reviewed the unsuspecting culpirts in certain foods she shared her detox diet she has just put herself on....several pounds of spinach in a shake every day for several weeks and one evening out for all you can eat shrimp. 

Her body was most likely bombarded with uric acid causing the upbrupt onset.  I treated her with acupuncture and dietary changes using the principles of clearing heat and alleviating pain.  If you or someone you know suffers from unbearable foot pain it just may be gout.  Call your closest Acupuncturist http://www.acufinder.com/  and start eating your cherries, blueberries and strawberries immediately.

Tackling Tantrums

After years of treating thousands of children for illnesses including excessive temper tantrums I was stumped when my two year old was having 10 daily. We hired an expert in parenting to come do an in-home evaluation and her insights have helped us enormously. Now we are armed with skills so our younger son, who is soon to turn two, doesn't stand a chance with our seasoned techniques.

Tackle Tantrums with Skilled Parenting:
1. Speak Your Mind- We say "use your words calmly and I will listen". or "Use Your Words"

2. Turn Your Back: Without an audience this often quells the fire within. We simply walk away- no words, just action.

3. Calm the Fury: "1...2....3 Calm yourself and I will help you." If he doesn't it's to #4
4. Quiet Focus Time: We send them to their room to calm themselves down. Once calmed they may come interact again. Next tantrum Repeat. We have gotten where we can just point to their rooms and they know what to do. Again, no words...just action.

We also supplement with Omega-3 fish oil to calm their nervous system 200mg daily. For challenging weeks we give them calming herbal medicine especially formulated for tantrums. It's called "Quiet Calm" and it works very effectively for tantrums, ADD, irritability, teething and sleep disorders. To order your herbal medicine call (208) 938-1277 we can do an Herbal Consult over the phone and drop ship your order throughout the US.

Uterine Ablation- Crime or Cure

Women suffering from extreme blood flow during their menstrual cycle and beyond are turning to this relatively new technique used in allopathic medicine. Unfortunately for some the outcome is worse than the previous condition. Most sources down-play the extreme nature of this type of procedure mentioning that it is "no more risky than most things we do daily" however it it reported that here are the factual risks women willingly accept out of frustration and not knowing they have less invasive options.

Here are the risks in black and white:Some of the risks of endometrial ablation procedures are perforation of the uterus, absorbing excess fluid, bleeding, infection, injury to organs within the abdomen and pelvis, and accumulation of blood within the uterus due to scarring. Another rare, but important, concern after any endometrial ablation procedure is that it might decrease your doctor's ability to make an early diagnosis of cancer of the endometrium.

Even with all of these risks women continue to opt for this procedure proclaiming "well, at least it's not a hysterectomy".

What options do women have when they are suffering from excessive uterine bleeding? Acupuncture, herbal medicine and moxabustion are all viable, non-invasive highly effective treatments. Most women do not know that these options are available to them.

Patients should seek treatment from Licensed Acupuncturists (certified Acupuncturists only have minimal training) and Licensed Herbalists. Their expertise should be women's health or women's medical mysteries. In my practice 90% of the time I am able to stop the bleeding in one treatment. Yes, I said one treatment. After which time we need to correct the underlying imbalance causing the extra-ordinary amount of blood flow.

There are several different reasons why a women has excessive menstrual flow and it is up to the practitioner to make a diagnosis as to why.

Blood Heat with Reckless Bleeding (think fast flowing red lava)
Blood Stasis creating heavy menstrual flow (think Dam)
Vacuity Patterns (think so weak body can't hold blood appropriately)
Mixed Patterns (any of the above mixed together)

Each pattern is easily decipherable using Traditional Chinese Medical Diagnosing. Then herbal prescriptions are recommended based on the exact principles applied for acupuncture points. The moxabustion is a warming of an herb above an acupuncture point that empirically stops bleeding. In my practice I have never been unable to stop uterine bleeding. Save a women's reproductive organs today and forward them this blog. I can be reached in my private practice American Acupuncture Center in Eagle, Idaho for further information www.AmericanAcu.com.

Free Ladies Event

Celebrate Women's Health Next Week During First Friday Art in Eagle! Come join us for a free women's Art of Healing in my new acupuncture and herbal medicine center in Eagle!

Free wine, acupuncture, massage, and beauty tips. Tasty food from Seasons Deli and samples of delicious GreensFirst that increases energy, slows aging and promotes happy feelings (improves digestion where 95% of your seratonin resides).

When:
Friday October 2nd 6-9pm
Where:
Our New Serene Location is:
American Acupuncture Center
128 S. Eagle Road
Eagle, ID 83616
(208) 938-1277


We are located on the corner of Eagle Road and Aikens (caddy corner across the street from Rembrandt's Coffee House). Parking is available around back.

Facial Rejuvenation on Oprah- Does It Work?

Recently many of you saw a show on Oprah about facial rejuvenation with acupuncture. Most of you are thinking "Does it really work?" The model they had was quite young so many of my patients were annoyed thinking she really didn't need any help looking younger. As I age I am starting to notice the ravages of time wearing at my eyes and forehead. I am in need of a facial boost and would like to reduce my lines. Facial rejuvenation does work quite well and the added benefit is you don't end up looking weird. You know what I mean: the tight face, the young but strange looking appearance that often accompanies major facelifts. The benefits to facial rejuvenation are many: 1. no down time just an hour a visit and deeply relaxing 2. you look like yourself but younger 3. it's relatively affordable 4. it's preventative so you continue to slow the aging process and 5. it's a fully body experience treating the imbalances inside as well as out The Chinese were obsessed with two areas of health 1. Reproduction (we have all heard the stories about producing a male heir or else) and 2. beauty (if you can't please the emperor you don't live very well) Now with modern day advances in technology you can take your youth to the next level. First, you need to find someone in your area who has experience. Licensed Acupuncturists have the most experience of all care providers including medical doctors who have learned acupuncture. Second, be prepared to do a series of at least 10 visits. The cost is between $125-$200 per treatment and it is recommended you repeat the process once a year. Third, Get Ready to Get Gorgeous! What to Expect: The procedure typically takes about an hour and hair fine needles are inserted at the beginning and end of every major wrinkle. There are particular points for reducing wrinkles, fading liver spots or discolored skin tones and even points to strengthen underlying muscles the lift and tone. The acupuncturist should then add in points throughout the body to enhance your treatment. Constitutionally you will be prone to certain things and the body points can slow your aging process considerable.

In my office I prescribe a unique formula of herbs to be taken internally to reduce wrinkles, even skin tones and lift sagging areas. I will also prescribe an anti-aging mask that you can apply weekly at home. We also offer a nutritional consult to educate you about Foods for Youth that have empirically been used to enhance beauty and slow the aging process. We also recommend supplements that are high in anti-oxidants and produce radiant skin. Finally, I use an electrical stimulation on the face that is quite relaxing and further reduces deep lines and drooping skin. Look for an Acupuncturist and Herbalist who is skilled in all of these areas for the most glowing results and Get Gorgeous!

PMS- It's Personal

PMS is a drag. We all know it. Whether we have experienced it first-hand or have been on the receiving end of the wrath it's no walk in the park. Mood swings, bloating, cravings, insomnia, constipation, acne, and uncontrollable feelings of anger are just a few of the major inconveniences of Pre-Menstrual Syndrome.

There are very few effective treatments for PMS from a western medical perspective. Most of us just retreat and try to avoid those people (we all know who they are) until they return to their rational, loving selves in 10-14 days! Quite honestly this is no way to live and there are actually some magnificent treatments for PMS. Always remember that PMS is not a choice but it is a treatable condition. I find most of my patients thank me for changing their lives and their husbands never want them to stop treatment- it truly is that remarkable.

Acupuncture is very effective in calming anger, reducing mood swings, curbing cravings, regulating bowels and making bloating a thing of the past. The Liver is usually the culpirate and causes most symptoms associated with PMS. The treatment method would be sedation leaving the patient extremely relaxed when they leave the office. It is a feeling that can last up to 3 days. It is remarkable in treating menstrual cramps too.

The best course of treatment is to have several acupuncture treatments two weeks prior to your menstrual cycle beginning. You will be amazed at how effective the treatment is and your period can actually sneak up on you because you no longer have all those nasty symptoms.

If you or someone you know lives in the Eagle and Boise, Idaho area call me for a new you (208) 938-1277. Or if you live elsewhere go to http://www.acufinder.com/ to find an acupuncturist and herbalist near you.

Finally Fertile

Most people don't realize how may options they have when it comes to their reproductive health. Take me for instance, 7 MD's recommended a hysterectomy by the time I was in my early twenties without any diagnosis. I suffered tremendous pain and every other symptom under the sun when it came to my menstrual cycle. Some insinuated that I would have a difficult time getting pregnant. Another told me to have a baby right away if I wanted to have one at all. That was not good advice for a single, young, woman who wasn't even married nor had a job. Traditional Chinese Medicine (including acupuncture and herbal medicine) treats infertility with tremendous success. The latest studies have proven that adding acupuncture to IVF can increase success by over 50% (2002 and 2006 Fertility and Sterility). That borders on miraculous. (For more studies visit: http://www.americanacu.com/) This ancient medicine is effective in treating infertility solely on it's own and when added to conventional medicine. I have seen patients in my practice for endometriosis, poly-cystic ovarian syndrome, anovulation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, irregular cycles, heavy bleeding, thyroid problems, habitual miscarriage and unexplained infertility. I have helped hundreds of people who thought they could never have babies conceive and carry healthy babies. My latest success story just gave birth to twins (not in-vitro) after having 4 miscarriages and finally being diagnosed with PCOS (Poly-cystic ovaries) and endometriosis. The number one question my husband Tony and I hear is: "How does it work?" Acupuncture works by stimulating acupuncture points on the body that correspond with internal organs within the body. There are points that directly affect the uterus and it's ability to function properly. There are points that actually induce ovulation. There are points that balance hormones and can reflect positively in lab work done by your reproductive endocrinologist after having acupuncture for only a couple of weeks. There are points to influence your endocrine system, your pituitary gland and your ovarian reserve. There is no case too complex for your infertility challenges. The good news is we are here to help you. In our practice I treat the women and my husband treats the men. We have seen male patients go from infertile and their wives told to go through IVF (In-vitro Fertilization) so they can extract and wash the few , good sperm he has. With herbal medicine and acupuncture we have been able to take "infertile men" and make them fertile. All the while these patients were able to avoid the emotional and physical and financial demands of IVF cycles. Now that is powerful medicine. We embrace using the best of both medicines. My husband and I have given before and after acupuncture treatments to hundreds of patients during their embryo transfers. It is a miraculous moment to be a part of and we are grateful for the experiences we have had. However, we relish meeting patients before they are faced with the enormity of these procedures. As we were taught in graduate school: first, do no harm. Our choice is the least invasive, least expensive and the least side-effects, the better. You have choices. You have options. You are not alone. Written by: Kristen Burris, L.Ac., M.S.T.O.M. founder and medical director of American Acupuncture Center in Eagle, Idaho For more information about our success with infertility please visit http://www.americanacu.com/