How to Keep from Getting Sick: Immunity Updates 2025

We're back into the swing of things for 2025 and the reports of increased viral infections with deeper lung involvement are on the rise. Whether it’s RSV, COVID or the flu, we've got you covered for how to prevent, how to abort a sore throat and how to reduce the time of sickness.

Here’s how to give your immune system the boost it needs when facing bacterial or viral challenges. For more specific support with dosing guidelines, grab our immunity protocol below…

1. Mega-Dose Key Vitamins for antibody support

During the acute phase of any respiratory or bacterial infection, mega-dosing certain vitamins can rapidly increase immune antibody production and enhance immune recognition. These essentials include:

• Vitamin A: Supports mucosal immunity and epithelial repair.

• Vitamin D: A powerful regulator of immune response and inflammation.

• Vitamin C: An antioxidant that enhances immune cell function.

2. Essential Minerals for Immunity

Minerals play a critical role in immune defense. Ensure you’re getting:

• Zinc: Vital for immune cell function and antiviral defense.

• Copper: Works alongside zinc to maintain immune balance.

3. Bioflavonoids and Antioxidants for Lungs

• Quercetin: This natural antioxidant helps shuttle zinc into cells for optimal antiviral activity.

• NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine): A precursor to glutathione, it supports lung health and reduces inflammation.

4. Powerful Herbs for Respiratory Support

These herbs can provide targeted instant relief and boost your recovery. This should be taken at the first signs of a sore throat.

• Yerba Santa: For deeper lung infections and stubborn coughs.

• Yarrow: Broad-spectrum antibacterial and antiviral properties.

• Elecampane: A soothing herb for dry, unproductive coughs.

5. Food to Avoid During Infections

Two common culprits can prolong symptoms and weaken your immune response:

• Sugar: Dampens immune function and promotes inflammation.

• Dairy: Increases mucus production in the sinuses and chest, which is particularly problematic for individuals with asthma, bronchitis, or upper respiratory issues.

For the duration of your infection, cutting out these foods is a must!

6. Cryo-Compress SOCK Therapy

This timeless, method can work wonders quickly. The cold sock treatment can be used in conjunction with other immune-stimulating modalities to treat inflammation, ear infections, sore throat, headaches, migraines, nasal congestion, upper respiratory infections, coughs, bronchitis and sinus infections.

• Apply a cold compress to the feet for three consecutive nights.

• Benefits include improved microcirculation, reduced sore throat symptoms, and enhanced lymphatic drainage for both head and neck

• Read how to do this miracle therapy

7. REST – Your Most Powerful Ally

Even if you feel asymptomatic after your sore throat and symptoms have calmed down, this is not the time for vigorous exercise or deep-cleaning your home. Overexertion can delay recovery. Instead, use this time to recharge:

• Catch up on reading.

• Organize your email inbox.

• Engage in restorative activities that allow your body to heal fully.

XO

Dr Vera

Can't sleep? Here's 7 Uncommon Reasons Why

Insomnia is a common struggle among many over 40. While traditional culprits like stress and caffeine are well-known, there are several unconventional factors that might be the reason for your sleepless nights. Let’s examine the surprising causes of insomnia and explore solutions that can help you TONIGHT!

1. Pain: The Silent Sleep Thief

Chronic pain from conditions like arthritis, back issues, or even tension headaches can make it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position. Pain interrupts your body’s ability to relax, keeping you stuck in shallow sleep cycles.

Immediate Solutions:

• Supportive pillows: Use body pillows, lumbar support, or wedge pillows to reduce strain.

• Magnesium: This mineral can relax muscles and reduce nighttime cramping. Liquid and powder may work better for chronic pain.

2. Anxiety: The Mind That Won’t Turn Off

Anxiety doesn’t clock out at bedtime. Racing thoughts and worries keep the brain overactive, making it challenging to drift off.

Immediate Solutions:

• Mindfulness practices: ASRM or box breathing, can help instantly to calm the mind.

• Set a “worry time”: Dedicate 10 minutes earlier in the day to write down worries or unfinished tasks. This practice helps signal the brain that it’s time to rest later.

3. Imbalanced Circadian Rhythm

Our internal clocks, or circadian rhythms, dictate when we feel sleepy or alert. Irregular sleep schedules, late work shifts, or too much blue light exposure can throw this system off balance.

Immediate Solutions:

• Consistent wake times: Try to wake up/ go to bed at the same time every day, even on weekends.

• Avoid clock watching at night: Focus instead on an easy/ calm thoughts (no problem solving) and depend on your alarm in the am to wake you.

4. Low Serotonin and Melatonin Levels

Serotonin and melatonin are critical for regulating sleep. If these levels are too low due to poor diet, stress, or other factors, it can leave you wide-eyed at night.

Immediate Solutions:

• Foods that boost serotonin: Incorporate more lentils/ beans and complex carbs into your evening meal.

• Sunlight exposure: Spend at least 15–20 minutes in natural sunlight daily without sunglasses to support serotonin production.

5. The Wrong Pillow for Your Sleeping Position

Sleeping on an unsupportive or ill-fitting pillow can strain your neck and shoulders, leading to discomfort and disrupted sleep. What works for a back sleeper may not suit a side or stomach sleeper.

Immediate Solutions:

• Side sleepers: Choose a firmer pillow to fill the gap between the head and shoulder.

• Back sleepers: Opt for medium support to keep the head aligned with the spine.

• Stomach sleepers: Go for a thinner pillow to prevent neck strain.

• Regular replacement: Replace pillows every 1–2 years for optimal support.

6. Unawareness of Dominant Sleeping Position

Many people don’t realize they gravitate toward a dominant sleeping position, which may be causing discomfort. For instance, sleeping on one side without proper alignment can lead to pressure points or pain.

Immediate Solutions:

• Track your position: Use a sleep tracker or ask a partner to observe how you sleep.

• Adjust accordingly: Incorporate pillows to support your natural posture in your dominant sleeping position.

7. The Impact of EMFs on Sleep Quality

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) emitted by devices like smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, smartwatches, and TVs in the bedroom can disrupt sleep by interfering with your body’s natural melatonin production and REM cycles. EMFs are thought to overstimulate the nervous system, keeping your body in a state of subtle alertness.

Immediate Solutions:

• Remove devices: Keep smartphones and other electronics out of the bedroom, or at least switch them to airplane mode.

• Unplug Wi-Fi routers: Turn off routers at night to reduce EMF exposure.

• Use EMF-blocking tools: Consider EMF-blocking curtains or mats to shield against radiation.

• How long to recalibrate?: It typically takes about one to two weeks for your body to adjust and for sleep quality to noticeably improve after removing EMF-emitting devices.

XO

Dr. Vera

Should You Consider a Ozempic or Mounjaro for Weight Loss?

GLP-1 agonists have gained immense popularity in recent years as an effective tool for weight loss, especially for individuals struggling with obesity, insulin resistance, high leptin levels or those who’ve found it difficult to lose weight through traditional methods.

But what makes these medications work so well, and what do you need to consider when using them?

Let’s dive into the details behind GLP-1 agonists, how they help reduce appetite, and what steps you should take to ensure your weight loss journey is sustainable and healthy.

How Do GLP-1 Agonists Work?

GLP-1 agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) mimic a hormone that’s naturally produced in your body after eating. This hormone plays a key role in regulating appetite by slowing gastric emptying (how fast food moves from the stomach to the intestines) and sending signals to the brain that you’re full. As a result, your appetite is reduced, and you feel satisfied with smaller portions.

But these drugs don’t just suppress appetite—they also affect insulin secretion, helping to lower blood sugar levels after meals, which can be beneficial for individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes. You may have heard these GLP-1 drugs on social media:

• tirzepatide injection (Zepbound, Mounjaro)

• semaglutide injection (Wegovy, Ozempic)

Why Weight Loss Happens with GLP-1 Agonists

The weight loss effect occurs primarily because of reduced food intake and a decrease in calorie consumption. However, it's important to note that while these drugs can curb hunger, they do not directly burn fat. Therefore, losing weight too quickly or without a proper nutritional foundation can lead to muscle loss, which is why balanced meals and mindful eating remain essential while using GLP-1 agonists.

Balanced Meals Are Still Key

Even though GLP-1 agonists reduce hunger, it’s crucial to focus on balanced nutrition. You may not feel as hungry, but your body still needs essential nutrients like protein, healthy fats, adequate fiber, and minerals to maintain muscle mass and energy. Skipping meals or not consuming adequate nutrients while on these medications can lead to nutritional deficiencies, loss of muscle mass, and even slower metabolism.

A good rule of thumb is to focus on meals that include lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and healthy fats. This not only keeps you full but helps maintain muscle mass and supports overall health.

what we offer & how we do GLP-1 Weight loss differently

• Customized Doses of both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide (Generic versions of Ozempic and Mounjaro)

• Reputable Compounding Pharmacy in the USA

• Monthly Check-ins

• Upgrade & Add Body Contouring

• Dietary Counseling

• Side Effects Management

There is controversy with the availability of the availability of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide from compounding pharmacies, so we encourage clients to be diligent with their weight loss journey before this is no longer available.

Regular Check-Ins

Our GLP-1 Weight loss program includes monthly check-ins. This is a critical part of using GLP-1 agonists effectively. These visits ensure that your dosage is properly adjusted and any side effects—such as nausea, gastrointestinal issues, or dehydration—are managed. Additionally, we will monitor your overall health, ensuring that your weight loss is not happening too quickly or negatively impacting muscle mass.

We also include a protocol to help you deal with side effects! Check this out

Muscle Mass: Why It’s Crucial OR KEEPING WEIGHT OFF

Rapid weight loss can result in muscle loss if not managed properly. Muscle mass is crucial not only for strength and mobility but also because muscle burns more calories than fat. Losing muscle can slow down your metabolism and make it more difficult to maintain your weight loss long-term.

Incorporating protein-rich meals and strength training exercises into your routine is essential. You don’t necessarily need to go to the gym—bodyweight exercises like push-ups, lunges, and squats, along with kettlebell routines, can be done at home with minimal equipment.

These workouts target key muscle groups and help prevent muscle loss as you shed fat. Aim for at least 2-3 strength training sessions per week to maintain muscle mass while on GLP-1 agonists.

Why Targeted Exercise Matters

While GLP-1 agonists help reduce overall body fat, certain areas—like the back, flanks, inner thighs, and lower belly—can be more resistant to fat loss. Strength training helps burn fat in these stubborn areas by building muscle, which boosts your metabolism. Increasing muscle mass in these areas helps burn more fat over time, making it easier to achieve your desired physique.

If you're looking to tone these areas further, body contouring treatments at Potentia Med Spa can help. These non-invasive procedures can target stubborn fat pockets and help you achieve a more sculpted look, especially in combination with the weight loss you're already experiencing.

Watch this in action…

The Bottom Line

GLP-1 agonists are a powerful tool for weight loss, but they should be used thoughtfully and in conjunction with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and medical guidance. Preserving muscle mass is essential to keeping your metabolism healthy and ensuring long-term success. At Potentia Med Spa, we’ve got you covered with both weight loss programs and body contouring treatments to help you achieve your desired results.

XO

Dr. Vera

Harnessing the Best of Japanese Lifestyle

While Dr. Singleton is out of the office on a bucket-list trip to Japan, let’s dive into some advancements Japan has brought to the world of functional medicine. 

Japan’s mix of ancient wisdom and cutting-edge science has been shaking things up, especially when it comes to gut health, anti-aging, and hormonal balance.

 Let’s take a look at the latest updates, it may just inspire your next health upgrade!

1. Calming Bloating: 

If your gut’s been giving you trouble, Japanese-inspired foods might have the answer. Over there, microflora supportive foods & supplements are a big deal when it comes to calming IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). 

By tackling inflammation and boosting gut health, these supplements not only calm digestive symptoms but also improve immunity and even mental well-being. It’s gut bliss, Japanese style! Here are examples of Japanese food-based probiotics you may not be aware of. If you haven’t tried Natto beans, you may want to read this first.

2. Consistency in Skin Health: The Secret to Getting the Glow

Japanese women are known for their flawless, radiant skin, and it’s no accident. Their skincare routine is all about simplicity and effectiveness.

Their mantra? Purify, Polish, Plump, and Nourish. It’s not just about slathering on 15 different serums; it’s about sticking to a routine that works, day in and day out. 

Cleanse to purify, exfoliate to polish, hydrate to plump, and feed your skin with nourishing ingredients. The result? Skin that ages like fine wine—slowly and gracefully. 

We’ve found that defensins in our new product line Defenage is based on Japanese technology of skin stem cell regeneration.  Check out this very technical article!

In Japan, diet is a huge part of skincare. They believe that what you put into your body is just as important as what you put on it. Antioxidant-rich green tea, vitamin-packed seaweed, and fresh fish loaded with Omega-3s keep skin smooth, hydrated, and glowing from the inside out. And don’t forget that healthy dose of collagen-rich bone broths, which helps keep the skin firm and youthful.

3. The Japanese Diet's Superpower

Here’s a fun fact: Japanese women have significantly lower rates of breast cancer than women in other parts of the world, and a lot of that comes down to diet. Soy, especially in its fermented forms like miso and tofu, contains isoflavones that mimic estrogen and help balance hormones—protecting against hormone-dependent cancers like breast cancer.

Seaweed, packed with iodine, keeps the thyroid happy, while anti-inflammatory foods like fish, veggies, and green tea fight off hormonal havoc. In Japan, food isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s a weapon in the fight against disease and hormonal imbalance.

——-

We hope this blog has helped you learn more about how Japan has influenced many aspects of functional medicine here in the US. If you have more questions about gut, skin or using hormone therapy, we’d love to hear from you. Schedule a consultation with our team of experts at Potentia MedSpa in Lafayette, California or call us at 510 230 2282. We are the only Functional Aesthetics Medspa in the San Francisco Bay Area offering a combination of medical expertise, innovative technology in skin care and holistic support.

Optimize Your Body's Hydration by 300%

Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining overall health, but did you know that simply drinking large quantities of water might not be the most effective way to hydrate? While water is essential, the quality of your hydration matters just as much as the quantity. I’m often asked how incorporating essential minerals and natural beverages can improve your body's water uptake and lead to better health outcomes. Let’s explore this in detail! 

Why Minerals Matter for Hydration

When it comes to hydration, minerals play a key role in helping your body absorb and utilize water efficiently. Here are some of the top minerals that improve water uptake within cells:

1. Magnesium: Essential for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, magnesium helps maintain normal nerve and muscle function, supports a healthy immune system, and keeps the heart beat steady. It also helps regulate blood glucose levels and aids in the production of energy and protein.

2. Potassium: This mineral is crucial for proper cellular function. It helps balance fluids and electrolytes, supports muscle function, and aids in nerve signaling.

3. Sodium: While often associated with high blood pressure, sodium in the right amounts is essential for hydration. It helps maintain fluid balance, supports muscle function, and facilitates nerve signaling.

4. Calcium: Known for its role in bone health, calcium also aids in muscle function and nerve transmission, which are important for hydration.

5. Taurine: An amino acid that plays a role in osmoregulation, helping to maintain cell volume and fluid balance.

Mechanism of Action: How Water Enters Cells

Water moves into our cells through a process called osmosis, where it passes through cell membranes to balance the concentration of solutes (like salts and minerals) on both sides. Minerals such as sodium and potassium are critical in creating the osmotic gradient that drives water into cells, ensuring proper hydration at the cellular level.

Recognizing Symptoms of Inadequate Hydration

Inadequate hydration can lead to various clinical symptoms that affect your overall well-being. Common symptoms include muscle cramps, headaches, migraines, and muscle spasms. For women, dehydration can also cause uterine cramps. These symptoms are signs that your body isn't getting enough water and minerals, highlighting the importance of proper hydration. By staying well-hydrated, you can prevent these discomforts and maintain optimal health.

Hormones and Hydration

Hydration is influenced by several key hormones:

• Cortisol: High levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, can lead to dehydration as it causes the kidneys to retain sodium, disrupting the balance of water and electrolytes.

• Thyroid Hormones: These hormones regulate metabolism, and imbalances can lead to changes in water retention and overall hydration levels.

• Estrogen and Progesterone: These female hormones influence fluid balance. Estrogen can cause fluid retention, while progesterone tends to have a diuretic effect, promoting the excretion of water.

Benefits of Proper Hydration

1. Hair Loss Prevention: Proper hydration supports hair health by ensuring that hair follicles receive adequate nutrients and oxygen.

2. Quality Sleep: Good hydration can improve sleep quality by aiding in the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone.

3. Weight Loss: Hydration aids in metabolism and can help control hunger, as thirst is often mistaken for hunger.

Natural Beverages for Hydration

In addition to water and minerals, certain natural beverages can significantly enhance hydration:

1. Green Juices: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, green juices made from vegetables like spinach, kale, and cucumber provide excellent hydration and nutrient benefits.

2. Celery Juice: Known for its high water content and electrolyte balance, celery juice helps hydrate the body and supports digestion.

3. Herbal Teas:

• Alfalfa Tea: Rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron, alfalfa tea aids in hydration and overall health.

• Horsetail Tea: Contains silica, which helps strengthen bones, hair, and nails while promoting better hydration.

4. Carbonated Water: Limited types of carbonated water can be supportive. Most brands like Lacroix or Waterloo have no medicinal benefit, it just helps make water interesting. However, mineralized carbonated water like Gerolsteiner are packed full of naturally occurring minerals. This is available at your local health food store

Enhancing Hydration with Mineral Drops

Incorporating mineral drops into your daily routine can be highly effective. Products like electrolyte powders, my favorite: Eau de Quinton, and trace mineral drops provide a concentrated source of essential minerals that enhance water absorption. 

These supplements are easy to add to your water and help replenish minerals lost through sweat and daily activities. They support overall cellular function and hydration, making sure your body gets the most out of the water you drink.

I’ve scoured the best hydration products on the market and created a hydration protocol for you if you are looking for a different way to hydrate. I’ve done the hard work for you! Simply click on this link and choose the best support for you.

Choosing the Right Water Bottle

To maintain optimal hydration, it's important to store your water properly. Avoid plastic bottles, which can leach harmful chemicals. Instead, use:

• Glass Bottles with Rubber Netting: These are non-toxic and keep your water tasting fresh.

• Stainless Steel Bottles: Durable and free from chemicals, these bottles are a great alternative to plastic.

Cleaning Your Water Bottles

Regular cleaning is essential to prevent the buildup of bacteria and mold. Here’s how to keep your bottles clean:

• Peroxide: Use a solution of water and hydrogen peroxide to sanitize your bottle.

• Fruit and Vegetable Wash: These solutions can effectively clean your bottle without harsh chemicals.

Conclusion

Optimal hydration goes beyond drinking large quantities of water. Incorporating essential minerals, understanding the role of hormones, and using the right type of water bottle can significantly improve your hydration.

We hope this blog has helped you learn more about the advantages of hydration and how this impacts the most common issues in folks over 40. If you have more questions, we’d love to hear from you. Schedule a consultation with our team of experts at Potentia MedSpa in Lafayette, California or call us at 510 230 2282. We are the only Functional Aesthetics Medspa in the San Francisco Bay Area offering a combination of medical expertise, innovative technology in skin care and holistic support.

Tired of Looking Tired? Discover Natur-Tox at Potentia Medspa

We believe the eyes are the windows to the soul. But sometimes, those windows can show a little wear and tear, with fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles. These signs of aging can make you look tired, stressed, or even older than you are. 

Here at Potentia Medspa, we have the solution: Natur-Tox, a revolutionary treatment using plasma energy is  designed to restore your eye’s youthful vibrancy and radiance.

What can it do? 

Natur-Tox isn't just another eye treatment.  Unlike surgical procedures, Natur-Tox Eyes is non invasive effective non-surgical treatment using plasma energy designed to:

• Erase Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, like crow's feet and under-eye lines, can be a dead giveaway of your age. 

• Eliminate Under-Eye Circles: Tired eyes can make you look years older than you are. Natur-Tox tackles circles and puffiness even the under-eye area 

• Awaken the Collagen Production: Natur-Tox helps to stimulate collagen regeneration, resulting in firmer, plumper skin around the eyes which reverses the signs of aging.

While most people focus on the eye area, we understand that aging often manifests itself in other areas of the face. That's why we offer the option to add on treatments to other key areas that contribute to facial expressions and visible signs of aging, creating a more balanced and youthful look:

• Forehead: Frown lines and horizontal creases on the forehead can make you look tired or grumpy. Adding the Natur-Tox treatment to the forehead area can smooth these lines and create a more relaxed expression similar to Botox.

• Crow’s Feet: Natur-Tox at the corners of your eyes reduces smile lines and can help restore volume and erase the aged look of crow’s feet- no matter if it is deep or fine lines

• Bunny Lines: These fine lines on the bridge of the nose can become more noticeable with smiling or squinting. You can soften the appearance of bunny lines, creating a smoother look.

• Upper Lip: Static Lip lines or barcodes often cause smearing of lipstick. If you’re not a smoker, the lines and folds are due to loss of elastin/ collagen

How does it work?

Natur-Tox Eyes is a safe and effective treatment with minimal downtime.  Plasma energy is an innovative way to resurface the skin. It’s different than RF and Laser. So if you're looking for a non-surgical solution to achieve a smoother, brighter, and more youthful appearance around the eyes, Natur-Tox is the perfect option.

• Consultation: During your initial consultation, our experts will discuss your goals, meticulously evaluate your skin, and answer any questions you may have about Natur-Tox. This is a collaborative process, ensuring you feel confident and informed every step of the way.

• The Treatment: The Natur-Tox procedure is a relatively quick and comfortable experience. Depending on the chosen areas, the treatment can take anywhere from 30 to 45  minutes. We use numbing to minimize discomfort

• Recovery: Downtime is minimal. You will experience some slight redness or swelling from 3-7 days after.  We recommend an after-care protocol to accelerate the healing process.

Ready to Begin?

We hope this article has helped you learn more about Natur-Tox, it’s our signature treatment and works wonders for folks over 40+.  If you have more questions, we’d love to hear from you. Schedule a consultation with our team of experts at Potentia MedSpa in Lafayette, California or call us at 510 230 2282. 

We are the only Functional Aesthetics Medspa in the San Francisco Bay Area, offering a combination of medical expertise, innovative technology in skin care, and holistic support for midlife hormone changes.

XO

Dr. Vera

The Power of Body Contouring: Beyond Vanity to Vitality

Body contouring has emerged as a powerful anti-aging treatment, offering a comprehensive approach to addressing various signs of aging beyond just vanity.

Through techniques like skin tightening, cellulite reduction, fat removal, and muscle toning, body contouring enhances physical appearance and also promotes a more youthful and rejuvenated mindset.

I don't know about you, but seeing loose, saggy skin reminds me of this fact: my hormones are changing and shifting the architecture of my body.

Let's face it, we all are getting older, but your mindset is what makes the wo(man).

Being over 40, you can no longer be lazy with food choices, exercise, and mental health. The blueprint for how your physiology presents in your 4th decade of life and beyond is being shaped right now.

Adipose tissue is inflammatory. Full Stop.

So the quicker you eliminate and recalibrate how your body stores it, best believe you'll get an all-over recalibration. Insulin and Leptin resistance is the real epidemic and this is why we are seeing GLP-1 weight loss drugs make incredible transformations for people.

But some of us don’t want to take prescriptions, or use drugs to lose weight, but can’t muster the willpower to do the workouts to burn fat, or just don’t have the time, here is where body contouring can make a difference.

In 30-60 minutes 1x/week for 5-10 weeks, you can break this inflammatory cycle of fat tissue calling the shots.

Why consider non-surgical body sculpting?

Non-surgical body sculpting aims to redefine your body’s shape and smooth your skin. Here at Potentia Medspa, we’ve brought on PHYSIQ, a non-invasive energy-based solution that you can multiple areas of the body. It works for all skin types and body sizes.

How does PHYSIQ work to remove fat?

PHYSIQ not only removes fat, it also improves muscle tone. It targets subcutaneous adipose ( fat) tissue and muscle with its unique STEP technology. The deep heat phase from PHYSIQ’s super luminescent diode matrix (SDM) targets adipose tissue while electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) creates muscle contractions to re-educate the muscle in the targeted area.

If you are over 40, building muscle mass is critical right now…

Have you noticed less muscle mass and decreased muscle tone from fasting, previous dieting or even weight loss drugs from your 30s? Body contouring techniques, using electromagnetic muscle stimulation, can help tone and strengthen muscles, resulting in what I call the ultimate jumpstart.

Well Dr. Vera, how is body contouring relevant to anti-aging?

Since our Medspa acquired PHYSIQ earlier this year, we’ve had some pretty incredible results with physical transformations as well as behavioral changes with our early adopter clients.

Yes, we saw reduced skin laxity, cellulite disappear, fat accumulation vanish in stubborn areas- all signs of anti-aging.

But most importantly we saw vitality shifts:

• Muscle tone strengthening from PHYSIQ resulted in a client signing up for pilates classes for the first time in her life

• Belly flattening with PHYSIQ encouraged a client to finally start eating a diet that didn’t cause her digestive bloating and upset

• Gluteal (butt lifting) with PHYSIQ gave another client the confidence to finally wear clothing that was flattering. She bought a new outfit to wear on her 1st date in over 4 years.

As you know, vitality adds years to one's life, but also ensures those years are lived with vitality, functionality, and quality. I’m all for living up to the best of my potential, aren’t you?

Grab your appointment for a consultation 24/7 using this link & learn more about body contouring with us at Potentia MedSpa in Lafayette, CA at 510 230 2282

XOXO

Dr. Vera

2 Unique and Delicious Breakfast Ideas for Fall

Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Oatmeal, toast or just plain skipping it?

Here are 2 flavorful shake-ups to start your day! They do require pre-prep so it’s a great idea to meal plan on the weekend.

Breakfast Buddha Bowls: Fuel Your Morning with Bliss

Picture a bowl loaded with high-fiber complex carbohydrates, protein-packed goodies, and a rainbow of fresh veggies. That's your Breakfast Buddha Bowl!

Start with a base of quinoa, brown or cauliflower rice, add your favorite veggies (spinach, avocado, roasted sweet potatoes - you name it), and top it off with a poached egg or a sprinkle of nuts. Drizzle with your favorite sauce - tahini or my favorite avocado dressing.

Simple.

Breakfast Salads: Greens Galore to Kickstart Your Day

Who says salads are only for lunch and dinner?

Pile on leafy greens, throw in some berries, sliced apples, and a handful of nuts. Top it off with a hard-boiled egg, Just Egg (if you can’t eat eggs) or other protein sources like sausage or a scoop of plain Greek yogurt.

Many of these items can be pre-cooked or purchased ready-to-eat from your favorite grocery store: Berkeley Bowl, TraderJoes, Whole foods, Safeway and Diablo foods.

Why Breakfast Matters: Mood, Focus, and Clarity

But here's the real advantage: Your morning meal plays a huge role in blood sugar regulation. By choosing complex carbs and protein at the first meal of the day, you're giving your body the right fuel to keep your blood sugar levels steady.

And when your blood sugar behaves, you're rewarded with mood stability, focus, and crystal-clear thinking throughout the day. No more 2 pm energy slumps or brain fog!

Try these two non-traditional breakfast ideas and feel the difference.

XO

Dr. V

Daily Immune Boosters to Kick Cold and Flu Season to the Curb (Kid Friendly)

With cold and flu season right around the corner, it's time to gear up and give our immune systems a much-needed boost. We all know that our genes play a part in how we handle sickness, but what really makes a difference are the everyday factors that affect our immune strength.

Think toxins, stress, anti-biotic exposure, extra pounds, not catching enough ZZZs, and what we put in our bodies – they can all disrupt our immunity. It's like throwing our body's balance, or as the experts call it, "allostatic overload," out of whack and leaving our immune system struggling.

You can naturally ramp up your immune resilience, and NOW IS THE TIME to kick this into high gear. I’ve got four tips to support you. These are especially handy as the kids have returned back to school and bringing many germs your way!

1. Andrographis: The Immune Wonder

 Andrographis, a plant from South Asia, is the real star of immune boosters. Studies have shown that it's packed with phyto compounds that can kick your immune system into high gear, making it better at fighting off infections. Adding some Andrographis to your daily routine can help you shore up your defenses before the flu season comes knocking.

Dose at 50-100mg/day

 2. Astragalus: Your Immune Ally

Astragalus, a traditional Chinese herb, is like your immune system's best friend. It has unique polysaccharides shown to stimulate the production and activity of immune cells, such as T-cells and natural killer cells- the core of your immune cell production, helping your surveillance against everyday exposure.

Dose at 50-100mg/day

3. Vitamin A: Your Immunity's Sidekick

Above all, Vitamin A is the most under utilized and underappreciated, but most trusty sidekick in the fight against germs. It keeps your skin and mucous membranes strong – the first line of defense. Plus, it's crucial for making antibodies, the warriors that help your body fend off infections. Load up on Vitamin A at 5,000iU (lower the dose for kids) and Vitamin A-rich foods like sweet potatoes, carrots/carrot juice, and leafy greens to give your immune system the support it needs.

4. Vitamin D: The Sunshine for Your Immunity

 Vitamin D3 is essential for your immune system. It helps your immune cells do their job better and keeps both superficial and deeper body's defenses in top shape. Our immune cells have vitamin D receptors, and when it binds with vitamin D, it helps activate them. This activation is necessary for the immune system's response.  If you didn’t soak up enough sun during the summer months, consider adding a Vitamin D supplement to your routine now.

Dose D3 2,000IU/day

So, there it is my friends – four simple ways to jumpstart your immune system. Grab this protocol and give your body these natural boosts- you'll be better prepared to tackle whatever cold and flu season throws your way.

Stay healthy and happy!

XO

 Dr. Vera