A 72-hour water-only fast can have a profound of effect on your body and mind. A fasting for an extended period like this should only be undertaken under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as it can have significant effects on your health.
 
Researchers are studying fasting and the healing role it may play in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Raman et al. 2023), rheumatoid arthritis (Palmblad and Ringertz 1991), diverticulitis (Marshall et al. 2018), enhancing cancer treatments (Longo, et al. 2014). And many other conditions!
Here are some things that happen during a 72-hour water fast:
 
Day 1:

• Ketosis: It takes about 12 hours to enter the metabolic state called ketosis. Your body will start using more of its fat stores for energy. (Anton et al., Obesity 2018)
• Hunger: Initially, you may feel hungry as your body is used to regular meals. This hunger can be quite strong during the first day.
• Blood Sugar: Your blood sugar levels may drop, causing some people to feel lightheaded or weak. Be careful during a fast. Dizziness can increase while standing up. Slow down!
• Energy: You will probably experience a decrease in energy and alertness as your body uses up stored glycogen for energy.

Day 2:

• Hunger Subsides: Some people report that hunger diminishes significantly on the second day of fasting.
• Increased Ketosis: Your body will still use some of its own stored carbohydrates. We store sugar as glycogen. When filled, we store about 1 lb of glycogen. This holds about 3 lbs of water. So, much of the weight loss in the first few days of ketosis is water weight that leaves as the glycogen is consumed. Some people experience increased mental clarity during this phase; and some people experience increased brain fog. (Anton et al., Obesity 2018)
• Detoxification: Your body may start to “detoxify” (get rid of junk and recycle). This can lead to symptoms such as bad breath, body odor, and changes in skin condition.
• Autophagy Begins: The lack of calories triggers off many chemical signaling in your body. Some of these signals tell your cells to recycle. Sometimes it is a complete cell. Other times, it is cleaning up junk and damaged parts within a cell. Your body can then use those gathered substances and rebuild damaged parts. (Alirezaei et al., Autophagy 2010)
• Energy Levels: Some people experience an increase in energy as they adapt to fasting.
• By the end of Day 2, growth hormone changes take place that help lead to the rebuilding of cells and tissues. (Hartman et al.,1992)

Day 3: 

• Insulin levels drop and IGF-1. This promotes hematopoietic stem sell regeneration. Yes, we get a bunch of fresh blood cells. (Longo, et al. 2014)
• Steady Ketosis: By the third day, your body is well into ketosis, and you’re primarily burning fat for energy.
• Mental Clarity: Some individuals report enhanced mental clarity and focus during this phase. Other people experience continue brain fog.
• Physical Weakness: Your energy levels may still be lower than usual, and physical activities may be challenging. Take it easy!
• Cravings: Food cravings can return as your fast progresses.
• Dehydration: It’s important to stay hydrated throughout the fast, as dehydration can become a concern.

Breaking the Fast: 
Refeeding: When you decide to break the fast, it’s crucial to do so gradually and with easily digestible foods like fruits, cooked vegetables, and small portions of lean protein. Your digestive system may be sensitive after an extended fast.
 
Hormones that regulate hunger and metabolism is temporarily altered, so it’s important to reintroduce food carefully to avoid overeating.
 
Remember that individual experiences can vary, and fasting for an extended period like 72 hours may not be suitable for everyone, especially if you have underlying health conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional before attempting any prolonged fast and closely monitor your body’s responses throughout the fast. It’s essential to listen to your body and break the fast if you experience severe discomfort, weakness, or other concerning symptoms.

Reach out to us if you would like to explore the possibilities of water fasting.

Migraines are a common problem. They are often triggered by different foods. In this video Dr. Gregor addressing some unexpected contributing factors. If you suffer from migraines, checkout this 5 min. video.
​
Reach out to us if you want support to address the various root causes of migraines.

In WA: ReviveFamilyMedicine.com
In other locations: RestoredLifeNow.com

​Hi this is Dr. Dave. I am writing from my heart. It comes from a place of compassion and love. But there are hard truths that need to be spoken. Stick with me to the end of the video because there are also truths that lead to hope.
 
It grieves me to see so much suffering. Friends, family, patients, strangers suffering as a result of chronic choices.
 
Most, the vast majority (but not all), of this suffering from chronic illness is self-induced. Brought about by what we put into our bodies, how we are not moving our bodies, and not protecting our sleep.
 
Hard Truth #1
 
The vast majority, almost all, dementia, Alzheimers, heart disease, and strokes are preventable! They do not have to happen!
 
And with strokes, heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension, much of the damage is REVERSABLE.
 
[This truth is empowering because we can do something about it!]
 
Hard Truth #2
 
Most autoimmune disease is affected by what we put into our bodies. Most autoimmune conditions can be put into remission largely by the nutrients we put in our bodies.
 
What we are doing is not only robbing years of living, but it is taking the life and vitality out of living.
 
[This truth is empowering because we can do something about it!]
 
Hard Truth #3
 
What we put in our bodies, diet, and obesity plays a larger role in cancer development than genetics, lack of exercise, viruses, environmental exposure combined.
 
[This truth is empowering because we can do something about it!]
 
Hard Truth #4
 
Obesity is not healthy. There may be a rare exception to any of the above; but the evidence is clear that we cannot truthfully declare that obesity is health promoting.
 
We should never mock, make fun of, bully or put down people that are obese. We should also not celebrate obesity.
 
Instead, we should compassionately offer to come alongside people struggling with obesity on their difficult health journey. Offering compassion and hope.
 
We are setting our children up for much physical and other forms of suffering.
 
Our calorie consumptions pattern resembles the hallmarks of addiction.
 
This has to stop!
 
The Final Hard Truth
 
All these Hard Truths are empowering. Because we can do something about them. We can shape and implement a future filled with vitality for ourselves and our children.
 
What we have been doing as a society is not working!
 
Searching for a quick fix in a pill, powder, or potion to solve our health needs does not work. Medications, herbs, and supplements may play a role in our health recovery and vitality. They are sometimes necessary. These items sometimes serve as distraction from addressing the root cause.
 
Those interventions are typically 20% or less of the solution. About 80% of the solution for most lifestyle induced chronic conditions involved getting into our bodies what is necessary for our bodies to repair, heal, and thrive.
 
Gathering random bits of information about what we want to hear is not a recipe for health and vitality.
 
A list of does and dont’s does not work long term.
 
How do we do this?
 
There are many resources and competing voices.
 
Diet books do not seem to be enough. Some provide good information and some people make life transforming changes based on reading a book alone. Those people are rare.
 
These books are best sellers, but they don’t usually lead to lasting transformation.
 
If you stuck with me so far, thank you.
 
The rest of the post is for those who want something different. Those who long for transformation that can lead to vitality. If you are currently suffering, or want to prevent suffering from chronic disease, then stick with me for another minute.
 
I have been working for nine years, starting with my recovery from a heart attack, diabetes, hypertension, genetically high cholesterol, a lung disease, on developing a whole-person, holistic approach to restoring health and healing.
 
I am putting together a pilot program based on the best of nutrition science and clinical experience.
 
The program includes:

• 2 one-one-one consultations is me (Dr. Dave) to address your goals and obstacle with the program.
• 4 Group Support and Learning sessions.
• About 15 hours of specific instruction that includes building knowledge and developing understanding, addressing the physical/biological, emotional, practical skills and steps that lead to transformation. With your new knowledge and practical skills, you will be equipt to make better sense of all the nutrition noise.
• Together, we will navigate the S.E.A.S. of healthy living and eating. (Simple, Easy, Affordable, Sustainable)
  • We will address S.E.A.S. of
    • food prep
    • sleep, rest, relaxation
    • movement
• A workbook (PDF) and online program material.
• Messaging support during the program.

 
I have been implementing each aspect of this program with my patients one-on-one. Now it is time to put it together for you to have the opportunity for health transformation.
 
This is a $659 value for only $179. We are limiting this pilot program to 30 participants. It starts on October 28th.
 
Together, we will navigate the S.E.A.S. of healthy living and eating.
 
This is a whole food, plant-based approach that goes beyond food and includes the whole person. Grounded in the best of nutrition and lifestyle science and clinical experiences.
 
Clink on this link to learn more about our   “28 Days, the Foundation for Transformation Pilot Program.” 

​In today’s fast-paced world, obesity has become a silent epidemic that affects tens of millions of people across our nation. Silent because it is taboo to speak up on the topic. Few headlines approach this topic. In fact, most media celebrates obesity.
 
The dangers of obesity are profound and pervasive. In this post we will address various health risks associated with obesity and why it is imperative to address this issue urgently.

 
Understanding Obesity
 
Obesity is a complex condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat. It is typically measured using the Body Mass Index (BMI), which considers a person’s weight and height. A BMI of 30 or higher is obese. They defined overweight as a BMI of 25 or higher. Based on this standard, nearly 75% of the US population is overweight or obese.  
 
The food industry exploits our innate drive for chloric density. This, together with our sedentary lives and other factors, contributes to the problem.
 
The Dangers of Obesity
The following are some well-established risks of obesity:

1. Cardiovascular Disease: Obesity is a leading risk factor for heart disease and related complications, such as high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and stroke. The excess fat in the body can clog arteries and put a strain on the heart, leading to serious health issues. “Cardiovascular risk and obesity,” PMID: 31467596
2. Type 2 Diabetes: Obesity is strongly linked to the development of type 2 diabetes. Excess body fat can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels, potentially leading to insulin resistance and diabetes.  “Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: Two Diseases with a Need for Combined Treatment Strategies,” PMID: 29020674
3. Respiratory Problems: Carrying excess weight can lead to reduced lung capacity and difficulties in breathing. Conditions like sleep apnea, which causes interrupted breathing during sleep, are more prevalent in obese individuals.  “Obesity and respiratory diseases,” PMID: 21116339
4. Joint Pain and Osteoarthritis: Obesity places extra stress on the joints, especially in the knees, hips, and lower back. Over time, this can lead to chronic pain and osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease  “Obesity & osteoarthritis,” PMID: 24056594
5. Cancer: Research has shown that obesity is associated with an increased risk of various types of cancer, including breast, colon, and kidney cancer. The mechanisms behind this connection are complex but may involve hormonal changes and inflammation. “Obesity and Cancer: A Current Overview…,” PMID: 36672434 
6. Mental Health Issues: Obesity can have a profound impact on mental health. Individuals with obesity are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, often because of societal stigma and discrimination. “Association Between Obesity & Psychiatric Disorders…,” PMID: 16818872.
7. Reduced Life Expectancy: Obesity significantly shortens life expectancy. Studies have shown that obesity can reduce life expectancy by several years, making it one of the most preventable causes of premature death. “Body-mass index and mortality among 1.46 million white adults,” PMID: 21121834
8. Increased Infection Risk: obesity significantly increased the risk for hospitalization from several infections. The Association Between Body Mass Index and the Risk of Hospitalization and “Mortality because of Infection: A Prospective Cohort Study,” PMID: 33511222
9. Economic Burden: Obesity not only affects the health of an individual. It also places a significant economic burden on healthcare systems. Treating obesity-related health issues consumes a substantial portion of healthcare expenditures worldwide. “Economic Burden of Obesity: A Systematic Literature Review,” PMID: 28422077

 
Prevention and Intervention
 
The good news is that obesity is preventable and manageable. There is a lot more to be said for each of these tools. Our “28 Days, The Foundation for Total Health Transformation” address each of these areas. Here are some steps individuals can take:

1. Balanced Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains (unrefined), legumes, nuts, and seeds. Avoid added sugars. Limit liquid calories. If you include animal products, do so sparingly. There is more to say. Our 28 Days, The Foundation for Total Health Transformation.
2. Regular Exercise: Incorporate regular physical activity into your daily routine. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
3. Sleep, Rest, Relaxation: If we do not get sufficient quantity and quality of sleep, our bodies will hang on to our fat stores. Lack of sleep also increases or cravings for simple sugars. Stress and an anxiety change our metabolism making it difficult to shed excess body fat.
4. Social and Community Support: Consider joining a support group or seeking professional help from a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized guidance.

 
Obesity is a complex and multifaceted issue with far-reaching health consequences. The dangers of obesity encompass a wide range of physical and mental health problems, but with proper prevention and intervention, the risks can be significantly reduced. It is not only about extending life. It is about decreasing suffering and increasing vitality into our golden years.
 
It is essential for individuals and communities to work together to combat this silent epidemic. Together, we can create a healthier future for all. Remember, a journey to a healthier weight begins with a single step towards a better, more active lifestyle.

Testosterone levels have been declining in men over the past 3 decades. It is time we do something about it! If you, or your loved one, are experiencing any of the following, low testosterone may be a contributing factor.

Some of the symptoms of low testosterone include any of the following:
Increased belly fat
Gynecomastia
Reduced Sex Drive
Erectile issues
Decreased muscle mass or strength
Decreased endurance
Feeling tired all of the time
Symptoms of depression
Lack of motivation
Insomnia
Mood volatility

There are many factors that can contribute to the above symptoms. That is why it is important to look for the root cause.

There is good news! Once we identify the root cause, there are several options to address the underlying root cause. There are many tools available to help balance and increase testosterone. Testosterone replacement is only one of many options.

There is no one solution. It depends on the cause. Reach out to a provider who will look for and treat the root cause.

The hardening or clogging of our arteries affects not only our hearts. It also contributes to lower back pain (LBP). Your lower back takes a beating every day and requires a good supply of blood and nutrients to help heal all the micro damage caused by daily use.
 
When blood flow is limited, this hinders the repair process. Overtime these micro-lesions can lead to instability and damage that becomes noticeable as back pain.
 
There is hope! It is possible to stabilize the blood supply and even reverse years of damage. The restoration of a healthy supply of blood and nutrients can help lead to restoration of function. (And it is also good for the heart, brain, kidneys, and the whole body.)
 
If you are experiencing LBP, it is important to look closely at your vascular health. This goes beyond cholesterol. It includes other lipid and specific inflammation markers. Ask your doctor how your lower back health may improve by improving your vascular health. 

Six principles guide shared decision making in Naturopathic medicine.
​
First, Do no Harm
Finding the least invasive, least toxic approach to restoring health. We use both conventional and evidence based alternative modalities.
 
Identify and Treat the Cause
There is a time and place for symptom suppression. However, most people will benefit from identifying the underlying causes of illness and removing obstacles to restoring health and vitality.
 
The Healing Power of Nature
Our bodies are designed to heal! This includes “food as medicine”, movement, rest and sleep, herbs, and much more. Working with nature and removing obstacles is part of the process.
 
Treat the Whole Person
In Naturopathic medicine, we understand the interconnectedness of our body, environment, relationships, and lifestyle on total health. It is through this whole-person-based approach that we seek to restore balance and health.
 
Doctor as Teacher
At Revive Family Medicine, we take the time to help our patients understand what is happening and why we are prescribing conventional and alternative treatments.
 
Prevention
it is our aim to help prevent illness and suffering before it happens.

​In a world where chronic illnesses seem to hold us captive, envisioning a future where we can live in health and vitality may feel like a distant dream. However, it is within our reach!
 
Picture a world where our bodies can heal from the insults of life. And where generations can pass down wisdom and love in their golden years. This future, full of untapped potential, is not only possible but also available to us today!
 
Our bodies possess an incredible capacity to heal. When we provide our body with what it needs, it does a great job of putting things right.
 
Will we open our minds and hearts to new possibilities?
 
By harnessing the wonders of the modern world alongside the healing power designed into nature, we can revitalize not just our lives. This revitalization extends our families and communities. It starts with a willingness to embark on a transformative journey.
 
This journey is not about mere tweaks to our diet or lifestyle. It requires a deep commitment to learning, gaining knowledge, and understanding. Only then can we break free from the clutches of chronic conditions and revolutionize our communities.
 
By challenging the status quo and embracing alternative approaches, we can break out of the system that keeps us trapped. Together, we can embark on this journey towards a future where health and vitality are not limited to a select few, but are accessible to all. This journey requires collective effort, support, and a shared commitment to transformation.
 
Imagine your future self healthy and filled with vitality. Picture yourself walking down the path that leads to that future.
 
Together, we have the power to shape a future where our bodies can heal. This future is within our grasp. With determination and perseverance, we can make it a reality.
 
Are you ready to take the next step today?
 
Reach out today and schedule your free 30 minute Discovery Session with Dr. Fell to see if what we offer and your needs are a good match.