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Reduce Inches from Your Waistline with the Zerona Laser
Have you been dieting and exercising but still have stubborn, visible fat deposits? For those patients that have tried and tried to eliminate fat in key areas with limited success, but perhaps are not ready for surgical fat removal, Thin Centers MD has the perfect laser solution for you.
The ZERONA Laser safely and effectively removes fat from stubborn areas of the body – all without surgery. Avoiding surgery also avoids, time, expense, potential complications, and patient downtime. Get back to work quickly – and your co-workers will never know that you’ve had help with your problem areas.
The ZERONA Laser is perfect for those patients who need help tightening a post-pregnancy tummy or reducing the volume of love-handles. ZERONA is proven to eliminate inches from these areas, quickly and safely. Full results should reveal themselves within two weeks of receiving treatment.
ZERONA is approved by the FDA and uses a laser to dissolve your fat cells below the surface of the skin. No needles, no surgery. Most of our patients report that treatment with the ZERONA laser is completely pain free and comfortable, in fact the laser is completely cool on the surface of your skin.
Your session will take less than one hour, however we do recommend multiple sessions for optimal results. Many patients choose 6 treatment sessions spaced out over two weeks.
Stop fighting or covering up your stubborn fat deposits. Show off a beautiful new waistline with the ZERONA laser. Contact Thin Centers MD for your initial consultation today and learn if ZERONA is the solution for you.
Posted on July 15th, 2014
Rejuvenate with Venus Freeze
Thin Centers MD is now very proud to offer new solutions for cellulite reduction and skin tightening. As we get older it is common to experience changes in our body’s physical appearance. Wrinkles may suddenly appear where they were never noticed before; cellulite may appear on our thighs and buttocks area. Often these are the areas that are also the most difficult to target through diet and exercise. In addition to the natural effects of aging, long term sun exposure can also cause wrinkles, photo aging and loose or sagging skin.
Venus Freeze is a new device that will correct these conditions and reverse the signs of aging you may be experiencing. Venus Freeze uses magnetic pulses to sprout the growth of new blood vessels and healthy skin tissue like collagen and elastin. The production of these tissues not only plumps your skin in a natural way but also eliminates the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin.
If you’ve been seeking a non-surgical treatment for your excess fat and cellulite and diet and exercise are just no longer enough, consider Venus Freeze today. Venus Freeze is an effective non-invasive treatment for your face, neck, arms, belly, back and legs.
Call and schedule your Venus Freeze consultation today!
Posted on June 30th, 2014
Turn Back the Clock with Age Management
Dr. Capasso and the professional team at Thin Centers MD are specially trained to help manage your age and keep you looking and feeling young every day. Almost every patient who comes through our doors is seeking assistance with a health condition related to aging, either medically or cosmetically. Haven’t you ever wished you could feel just a little younger?
One of the newest developments in modern medicine, age management, treats you as a whole person and works to identify age related conditions with prevention, early detection, treatment and even reversal of some age-related conditions.
Some of the key aspects of age management include:
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Health optimization and disease prevention.
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Restoration of hormonal imbalances.
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Correction of visible signs of aging.
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Prevention of premature disability or even death.
Age management is not a guarantee or a fountain of youth, but age management medicine is proven to improve your quality of life and overall health status. Looking and feeling younger on a daily basis is usually based on improvements to your physical health but can also have a great impact on your mental and emotional health as well – further enhancing your quality of life.
Age management is perfect for women entering menopause, men experiencing hormonal issues and any other aging person who wants to dramatically improve how they look and feel each day.
Learn more about age management medicine and schedule a consultation today with Dr. Capasso. It’s our goal at Thin Centers MD to optimize health and improve your way of life.
Posted on June 15th, 2014
Let’s Turn Back the Clock with Juvederm!
Are the signs of aging already visible on your face? Has your skin lost some of its volume? Are there fine lines and wrinkles that take away your youthful appearance? You cannot escape the process of aging, but you can reverse its effects on your skin. Here at our Jacksonville Beach facial rejuvenation practice, you can restore your youthful look with the use of Juvederm.
A lot of people love Juvederm because of its many benefits.
- Juvederm is safe to use as it is primarily made of hyaluronic acid, a material that is naturally found in the human body.
- It restores skin volume and hydrates the skin. It can smooth away facial folds and wrinkles too.
- Skin testing is not needed before treatments since Juvederm does not have any animal-derived components.
- The concentration of hyaluronic acid in Juvederm is higher compared to most of the hyaluronic acid dermal fillers available.
- Juvederm is offered in gel form with even consistency. Once it is injected, patients get smooth and natural-looking results right away.
- The results of a single Juvederm treatment can last up to a year.
- Treatments are fast and can be completed in 30 minutes or less. Even the busiest people can have treatments without experiencing major disruptions to their schedules.
- It is a non-invasive way to rejuvenate the skin and perfect for those who do not want to go under the knife.
- Recovery is fast with most patients able to return to work on the same day.
If you want to reverse the signs of aging and look younger, take advantage of Juvederm. Schedule your Juvederm treatment with us by calling 904-694-0992. You are a step closer to looking better than ever!
Posted on May 15th, 2014
How to Prevent Tooth Discolorations
Tooth discolorations can affect a person’s smile, confidence, and overall appearance. These discolorations can be caused by age, certain medications, diet, and lifestyle choices. Most stains are located in the upper layer of the tooth while some are located deep inside the tooth. Here at our Jacksonville Beach teeth whitening practice, you can have a brighter smile through the BEYOND™ treatment. It is effective on all kinds of stains, whether located in the upper layer or found deeper inside the tooth.
Despite the effective and safe treatment we offer, we still encourage patients to follow these tips to prevent staining.
Keep teeth clean by brushing every day. You have to brush your teeth at least two times every day. Apply the proper brushing techniques and use a toothbrush with soft bristles.
Floss regularly. The edges of stained teeth are the worst part because it is where plaque accumulates. Plaque attracts stains. By flossing properly, you can limit plaque and fight stains as well.
Stop smoking. It might be very hard to do, especially for someone who has been smoking for many years. Then again, you have to realize that smoking is not just bad for your teeth, but also for your health. Smoking contributes to different health problems. It also stains teeth.
Minimize drinking staining beverages. Coffee, colas, and teas stain your teeth. When you drink these beverages, it is better to finish a cup in a single sitting instead of sipping from the cup all throughout the day. Do not forget to brush after drinking.
Make use of a straw. By using a straw, you are reducing your exposure to beverages that can stain teeth.
Following these tips can help in preventing tooth discolorations. In case your efforts are not enough, especially for stains caused by heredity or use of certain medications, it is best to go for an effective and convenient teeth whitening treatment like BEYOND™. Call us today at 904-694-0992 to learn more about how you can have a brighter smile.
Posted on April 30th, 2014
Common Signs of Hormone Imbalance
As you age, your hormone levels start to change. Both men and women experience mental and physical effects when hormone levels take a dip. Although hormone replacement therapy is available to address these issues, it still pays to do hormone screening in Jacksonville Beach to prevent further problems caused by hormone imbalance. Here are signs that you may have hormone imbalance.
Persistent weight gain
Are you having a hard time maintaining a healthy weight? Perhaps your persistent weight gain is due to a hormone imbalance and not just because of your lifestyle or your diet.
Insomnia and decrease in sex drive
You may be having hormone imbalance if you are experiencing a decrease in sex drive. It all begins with insomnia. The production of your sex hormone is affected if you do not get enough sleep.
Fatigue
Do you feel tired even if it just lunch time? Feeling tired almost all the time is not normal. Your afternoon crashes and sluggishness may be caused by a hormone imbalance.
Anxiety and irritability
When you work too much or you are stressed out, you can easily become irritable. However, if you are anxious and irritable for no reason at all, it may be caused by an imbalance.
Hot flashes and night sweats
A lot of women experience night sweats and hot flashes, which are signs of hormone imbalance.
These symptoms can be caused by other problems, but you should not disregard the possibility of a hormone imbalance. To learn more about hormone screening, contact Thin Centers at 904-694-0992 today!
Posted on April 15th, 2014
Obagi Blue Peel Radiance: Gently Exfoliate and Renew Your Skin
Do you want to have brighter and smoother skin that glows and radiates? Obagi Blue Peel Radiance treatment in Jacksonville Beach is one of the facial rejuvenation procedures offered at Thin Centers and has become the choice of many when it comes to skin renewal.
Obagi Blue Peel is a salicylic acid based peel that gently exfoliates dead skin, resulting in skin renewal and facial rejuvenation. Obagi Blue Peel Radiance evens out skin tone and improves your complexion.
Collagen and elastin play important roles in keeping the skin healthy. As you age, collagen production decreases and wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots start to show. These concerns can be corrected by Obagi Blue Peel Radiance too.
Benefits of Obagi Blue Peel Radiance
> It effectively rejuvenates the skin. After treatment, you can see and feel your skin tighten. Skin becomes smoother and looks brighter also. Furthermore, its results are instant.
> The entire treatment only takes 45 minutes to perform. A busy person can easily squeeze in the treatment to her tight schedule.
> The procedure has little to no downtime. This is important for people who cannot afford to have downtime and need to resume their daily activities right after treatment.
> Obagi Blue Peel Radiance is for anyone as it is applicable to all types of skin.
If you are interested in the procedure, contact Thin Centers at 904-694-0992 to schedule your Obagi Blue Peel Radiance treatment. You deserve to have smooth and healthy skin. Experience skin renewal the Obagi style!
Posted on March 30th, 2014
How to Optimize your Health through Telomerase Activation
What are telomeres?
- Telomeres are the ends each of our chromosomes that act as buffers protecting the DNA material from becoming damaged. Our chromosomes are long sequences of DNA that contain all of our genetic material. Chromosomes form a structure called a double helix; each pair of chromosomes consists of one pair from your mother and one pair from your father.
- The telomeres main function is to protect the rest of the chromosome from getting shorter during normal cell division. As we age, telomeres often shorten due to many factors: including stress in our lives, chronic diseases and infections. Telomeres naturally become progressively shorter each time our cells divide. When the telomeres become too short, the cells can no longer divide which can result in senescence of that cell.
- Recent studies have shown that patients over 60, who have longer telomeres, are healthier from a heart and Immune related diseases compared to their counterparts with shorter telomeres.
- Professor Hayflick in 1961 described the phenomenon of cellular aging. He discovered that cells cannot divide beyond a specific number of times. Every time a cell divides the length of the telomeres shorten slightly, over time, after a specific number of cell division cycles, the telomeres are steadily getting shorter as they reach this critical limit known as the Hayflick limit. Dr. Hayflick understood that cells reaching this limit became old but was unsure of what caused it.
- In 1990 professors Calvin Harley from Canada and Carol Greider from the United States discovered that telomere shortening goes hand-in-hand with the aging process and is the direct cause of cells reaching the Hayflick limit.
It is well understood now that maintaining telomere length helps to prevent age-related diseases.
What is telomerase?
- Telomerase is an enzyme in our bodies that helps us maintain the protective telomeres located at the ends of all chromosomes. Telomerase is the key to healthy cell division.
- Recent studies have shown that increasing telomerase activity in our cells can increase the telomeres length, improve the function and promote the lifespan of our cells.
- Telomerase deficiency has been linked to diabetes and impaired insulin secretion in mice.
- Inflammation in our body can decrease our telomerase activity. Oxidative stress and inflammation that are commonly seen in heart disease, obesity, and type two diabetes are associated with shorter telomeres.
- Anything that causes an increased stress in our bodies, by activating the cortisol or adrenalin systems like poor sleep duration, can be associated with shorter telomere length. In addition anything that causes chronic inflammation can also adversely affect telomerase activity like obesity.
- Obesity has been associated with low-grade inflammation in white adipose tissue resulting from the chronic activation of the immune system this leads to insulin resistance impaired Glucose tolerance and type two diabetes.
How do you know if your telomerase enzyme is working well?
- A simple blood test can check your telomerase levels. Several companies offer the blood test unfortunately it is not covered by most insurance.
What can increase telomerase activity?
- Diet and lifestyle can improve telomerase activity. A publication in 2008 by Dr. Dean Ornish suggested that men with prostate cancer who undertook changes in diet and lifestyle with in three months showed improvements of the telomerase activity.
- The standard American diet characterized by higher intakes of red and processed meats, sweets (desserts), refined grains and a higher ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fats in a 20- 1 ratio has been shown to be highly pro-inflammatory to our bodies.
- In contrast, a low inflammatory diet characterized by lean proteins, vegetables, fruits with an Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio of 4-1 has been shown to have lower markers of inflammation and thus reduced oxidative stress on our bodies and the telomerase enzymes.
Reduce your stress
- Chronic psychological stress has been associated with shorter telomeres and lower telomerase activity.
- Overexposure to stress-related hormones like the catecholamine’s (epinephrine and norepinephrine) and the adrenal hormone cortisol can increases the oxidative damage to cells compromising telomerase repair systems.
- Did you know that stress reduction through meditation can help improve your telomerase activity. A study in 2010 found that there was a significantly greater telomerase activity in participants than controls after a three-month meditation retreat.
- Hormonal therapy with androgens has been found to increase telomerase activity. In a study in 2000, patients receiving androgen for bone marrow failure stimulated their bone marrow to produce more blood cells by turning on the TERT gene (telomerase reverse transcriptase). The TERT is the catalytic subunit to the enzyme telomerase responsible for repairing our chromosomes telomeres.
- In addition, bio identical hormone replacement may activate the telomerase enzyme. A 2002 study showed that 17-Beta estradiol in particularly activated the telomerase enzyme. The main mechanism for control and activation of the telomerase enzyme is the mammalian TERT gene. In addition, a Japanese study in 2010, 17- Beta estradiol helped telomerase activity and reduce the effects of aging.
- Regular moderate exercise has been shown to improve your antioxidant defenses by helping to maintain telomere length, a Yale study revealed.
Protection of telomeres by antioxidants
- The antioxidants in our bodies protect us from free radicals. Telomeres seem to be particularly sensitive to free radical damage. The more antioxidants to combat those unwanted free radicals the healthy our bodies can function. Here are a few in the literature:
- Vitamin D3 has been shown to increase telomerase activity in overweight Americans. In this 2012 study, vitamin D3 was shown to improve telomere maintenance and prevent cell death and counteract obesity-induced acceleration cellular aging.
- Astragalus has been found to stimulate telomerase activity.
- Multiple studies of a natural organic compound called Astragalus found in TA-65 supplement have been shown to improve telomerase activation.
- Astragalus root can be found in China and for over 1000 years has been used in traditional Chinese herbal medicine to help multiple conditions of aging.
- Like other types of cells in our body the immune cells can lose their ability to divide over time as the telomerase on our chromosomes become progressively shorter with each cell division. As a result, our disease fighting immune cells become compromised with age, leading us prone to infections and cancers.
- Clinical studies out of UCLA found that Astragalus root can prevent or slow the progression of loss of telomeres and key immune cells making them a weapon to fight viruses like HIV. Similar to astragalus, extracts of cycloastragenol can increase telomerase activity.
- Previous studies have shown that injecting the telomerase gene into the immune cells (T cells) in our body can help keep the telomeres from getting shorter and enabling them to maintain their anti-viral functioning longer.
- In 1999 Turkish researchers found a substance collected by honeybees called for propolis may affect the enzyme telomerase. Researchers found that the highest concentration of propolis 60 ng /mL significantly decreased to telomerase expression.
- The omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to improve telomere length. A study at the University of California in San Francisco in 2010 reported that patients who had higher levels of omega-3 fats in their blood had significantly less shortening of telomeres than those who had had low levels and their blood. The best sources for supplementing with omega-3 are wild salmon, cod and sardines. Try to get around 3 grams of omega-3 (DHA/EPA) every day.
- Carnosine supplements have also been shown to help slow telomere shortening and reduce aging effects. Carnosine is naturally found in free-range meats and fish. Daily supplementation the amounts of 1000 mg per day have been shown to reduce the effects of antioxidants on our telomeres.
- In a study in 2009 published in the British Journal of pharmacology, resveratrol was found to enhance telomerase activity. Resveratrol is found in the skins of grapes and blueberries. This is one of my favorite antioxidants, which is why I put it in Mitoblast 2.
- In a study from Poland in 2010 so silymarin supported telomerase activity. Silymarin, the key active compound in milk thistle, is one of the most potent liver protective substances known. Silymarin has been shown to increase glutathione production in the liver by around 30%, thus increasing the antioxidant and detoxification capabilities.
- Antioxidant vitamin like vitamin C, Vitamin E, B vitamins, and beta carotene (Vitamin A precursor) has also been shown to be protective against inflammation. Minerals like selenium and zinc also have an antioxidant effect on our bodies.
Here are the Four Strategies to Boost Telomerase Activity
- Eat a low inflammatory diet, which is low in bad fats, sodium and refined sugars. This diet should consist of colorful vegetables and some fruits and healthy fats like almonds and walnuts. In other words, follow our FRESH Diet.
- Exercise for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity per day. Studies have shown that moderate aerobic activity improves telomerase activity and your antioxidant defenses by helping to maintain telomere length.
- Practice different types of stress management, for example: yoga, biofeedback with breathing exercises or any other ways to deal with stress in a healthy way. People who practice stress management have shown increased telomerase activity.
- Take prescription grade antioxidant supplements like: Mitoblast 2, TA-65 (Astragulus), Resveratrol, Omega -3 fish oils, and Vitamin D3. Please ask our nutritionist at our centers for the proper dosing for your specific health concerns.
- In conclusion, a poor diet and sedentary lifestyle, which are known to promote inflammation and oxidative stress, will adversely affect our telomerase functionality. Fortunately things that lower inflammation and oxidative stress like low inflammatory diets, centered around low glycemic index foods whole plants, key supplements, regular moderate exercise and stress management can help restore your to telomerase activity back to when your body was younger lowering your disease potential and helping you feel younger and more vibrant.
I hope you enjoyed this article.
Call now at 904-694-0992 for more information about telomerase activation or our supplements or click here to order TA-65 or Mitoblast 2.
Anthony Capasso M.D.
The posts on this blog are not intended to suggest or recommend the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease, nor to substitute for medical evaluation and or treatment, nor to be an alternative to medical advice. The use of the suggestions and recommendations on this blog post is at the choice and risk of the reader.
Posted on March 25th, 2014
6 Tips to Reverse Signs of Aging
Do you want to look and feel young despite your age? Do you want to live longer and stay healthy while enjoying precious moments with your loved ones? Through age management in Jacksonville Beach, quality of life can be improved. At the Thin Centers, we will evaluate your current health status and recommend a program that aims to improve your mental and physical state.
Although there is no way to stop aging, health can be optimized and signs of aging may be reversed through age management. Also, since the body naturally degenerates as part of the normal aging process, we have personalized programs for both men and women that restore hormonal balance. Age management also involves taking supplements to keep the body properly nourished.
Here are 6 tips to help reverse symptoms related to aging.
Healthy diet – It is important to consume different kinds of foods that have the vitamins and minerals to properly nourish the body. Add fruits and vegetables that have antioxidant properties.
Exercise – Exercising regularly improves blood flow and keeps you active. It also improves your strength.
Sleep – Do not deprive yourself of sleep. It is important to have 6 to 8 hours of sleep per day to stay healthy.
Be stress free – Stress hastens the aging process and can even trigger cellular damage. Stay away from stress when possible. Furthermore, you have to know how to manage stress effectively.
Exercise the mind – Keep your mind moving by engaging in activities that challenge the mind. This helps prevent dementia and Parkinson’s disease.
Stay hydrated – Drink at least 8 glasses of water every day as it helps in delivering vital nutrients and keeps skin healthy.
For more information on age management, contact the Thin Centers today at 904-694-0992 and let Dr. Capasso help you improve your way of life.
Posted on March 15th, 2014
Care for Your Skin in 5 Steps
HydraFacial in Jacksonville Beach is a non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatment that improves the appearance of hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, fine lines, uneven skin tone, and enlarged pores. At the Thin Centers, every HydraFacial treatment is different. We individualize treatments to ensure that the patient’s needs are met and skin concerns are addressed properly.
The procedure is composed of two phases. The first phase takes place in the office and is the actual 5-step procedure while the second phase happens at home where daily care is done.
5-Step Procedure:
1.) Dead skin cells are taken away in order to reveal new and healthy skin. A small deplaning tool may be used to open up the pores. Debris found on the upper layer of the skin is then swept.
2.) Acid peel is done to loosen debris and dirt found in the pores without causing any irritation.
3.) Pores are cleaned out with the use of vortex suction. The extractions are automated and do not cause pain.
4.) Antioxidants and hyaluronic acid are infused to the skin to provide protection and to nourish the skin.
5.) Red LED light is utilized to make the skin look more firm and resilient. It also helps in improving the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Blue LED light is used for individuals who have oily skin.
HydraFacial has become the primary choice of many people when it comes to caring for the skin. To take advantage of the safe, quick, and proven results of HydraFacial, set up an appointment today with Thin Centers by calling 904-694-0992.
Posted on February 28th, 2014
