Deondra Asike, MD

The Cannabis Fiasco: A Cautionary Tale for Emerging Psychedelics… The promises surrounding cannabis legalization have proven to be largely unfulfilled, bringing instead a surge of unforeseen issues. Promoted as a natural solution for conditions like anxiety and depression, cannabis gained wide acceptance with legislative and financial backing, despite limited psychiatric research on its safety and efficacy. Today, the consequences are becoming clearer, particularly for adolescents, who are experiencing higher rates of psychosis linked to cannabis use. Research in The Lancet Psychiatry (2019) found that daily, high-potency cannabis use increases the risk of psychotic disorders, especially in adolescents, whose developing brains may be more vulnerable to the effects of THC. Although some users report temporary relief from symptoms like anxiety, studies also show that regular or heavy use can worsen depressive symptoms and cognitive function, particularly among young people (Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2021). Yet, cannabis was legalized and marketed as a safe, therapeutic alternative, driven more by economic interests than scientific evidence. This trend raises concerns about the new wave of psychedelics emerging with similar claims. While psychedelics like psilocybin are being explored for treating mental health conditions, the risks are familiar. During the 1990s, psychiatry approached psychedelics like LSD and hallucinogenic mushrooms with caution, aware of their potential to trigger psychosis or exacerbate schizophrenia-like symptoms. Early observational studies warned that such substances could induce severe psychological effects, particularly in individuals predisposed to mental health conditions. Psychiatry’s acceptance of cannabis was, in hindsight, premature. We must avoid repeating the same mistake with psychedelics. Despite their potential, these treatments require rigorous oversight and research, particularly on long-term effects and impacts on vulnerable individuals. Psychedelic research today involves more controlled conditions and careful screening, but the risks of psychosis and other adverse effects remain. Comprehensive studies on their safety and efficacy are essential before broad use. The experiences with cannabis legalization should remind us to prioritize scientific integrity over market-driven enthusiasm. Moving forward, psychiatry must demand research-backed evidence, ensuring that society approaches psychedelics with the caution they merit.

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Why Understanding the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) Matters 🌱 👉 Balances Vital Functions: The ECS regulates key functions like mood, memory, and appetite, keeping our systems in harmony. 👉 Supports Natural Healing: Knowledge of the ECS can empower natural approaches to stress and discomfort. 👉 Enhances Wellness Choices: Understanding the ECS helps guide smart decisions for a healthier, balanced life. Beta caryophyllene can enhance all aspects of the ECS to restore harmony and balance. Discover more wellness insights with Blair Medical Group at www.blairmedicalgroup.com #endocannabinoidsystem #wellnesssupport #naturalhealing #holistichealth #selfcarejourney #mindandbody #plantbased #stressrelief #balanceyourbody #healthjourney #cbdbenefits #bodybalance #wellbeingmatters #holisticwellness #mindandbodyconnection #naturalsolutions #healingjourney #lifebalance #healthandwellness #plantpower #blairmedical

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New Insights into Endocannabinoid System Dysregulation in Stress-Related Neuropsychiatric Disorders 🧠 Dysregulation of the endocannabinoid (eCB) system is linked to various stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders (SRDs) such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. A new systematic review and meta-analysis screening 1072, 1341, and 400 articles for inclusion in Aims 1, 2, and 3, respectively, aimed to explore circulating anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) concentrations at rest and in response to acute psychosocial stress in individuals with SRDs compared to controls. Results: 🔸 Aim 1: Out of seven studies in controls, most reported stress-related increases in AEA (86%) and 2-AG (83%), though meta-analyses did not support these patterns statistically. 🔸 Aim 2: From twenty studies, higher baseline concentrations of both AEA (63%) and 2-AG (60%) were observed in individuals with SRDs compared to controls, confirmed by meta-analyses (p's < 0.05). 🔸 Aim 3: In three studies, one reported a statistically significant difference in stress-related 2-AG changes between PTSD patients (decrease) and controls (increase), supported by meta-analysis (p < 0.001). Despite significant heterogeneity in study designs, consistent patterns were identified, including elevated baseline AEA and 2-AG in individuals with SRDs and smaller stress-related increases in 2-AG in these individuals compared to controls. Standardised research methods are crucial to clarify the complex relationships between eCBs, SRDs, and psychosocial stress, positioning eCBs as potential biomarkers and intervention targets for SRDs. 🔗 Read the complete study here: https://lnkd.in/d6f24Ser #Neuropsychiatry #EndocannabinoidSystem #MentalHealthResearch

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This week Dr. Gibson discusses what you should consider before prescribing pharmacological interventions for low bone mineral density in patients with #Malnutrition or #EatingDisorders. The content provided in this post is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not, and is not a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your specific medical or mental health condition. Never disregard professional medical or mental health advice or delay in seeking it because of content provided through this platform. If you are in crisis or believe you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, please call your local emergency number or a mental health hotline immediately. This is a public social media platform. As such, any information that you share through this platform is non-confidential for all purposes.

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Is inflammation impacting your fertility? Many don’t realize the silent role inflammation can play in disrupting hormone balance, ovulation, and even sperm quality. Managing inflammation is key to optimizing fertility—especially when you’re juggling life’s demands. Learn 7 natural strategies to reduce inflammation and take control of your fertility journey. Click https://vist.ly/3mh5aib to discover how these strategies can boost your chances of conceiving. #fertility #fertilitysupport

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The connection between naturopathic doctors and their patients is a mutually-beneficial relationship of education and healing. Not only do naturopathic doctors treat their patients, they also provide knowledge and understanding regarding the underlying mechanisms of treatment and prevention to empower patients to become more engaged in their own health. By understanding the big picture of their health, patients can develop new strategies to maintain a healthier lifestyle. #NaturopathicDoctor #PatientDoctorRelationship #PreventativeMedicine

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Licensed naturopathic physicians (NDs) are regulated at the state level to practice naturopathic medicine. In almost all regulated states, a naturopathic physician must have completed the following in order to be eligible for licensure: 1) Naturopathic medical students attend accredited, four-year, in-residence naturopathic medical schools where they study biomedical sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, and pharmacology. Their medical education incorporates the latest scientific advances and natural approaches to illness prevention and management. 2) Students complete at least 4,100 hours of class and clinical training, including over 1,200 hours of hands-on, supervised clinical training. 3) ND students in accredited naturopathic medical programs are also evaluated on diagnostics, treatment modalities (nutrition, physical medicine, psychology, pharmacology), and medical interventions. Learn more about the rigors of naturopathic medical training from the Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges (AANMC)! What does this mean for patients? A licensed ND has fantastic tools in their medical toolbox to optimize health, address the root cause of health problems, prevent disease, and revolutionize your wellness. Find a licensed ND near you at wanp.org/find-a-doctor , bit.ly/FindAnND , or FindANaturalDoctor.com. #wanp #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicphysician #NaturalDoctor #NaturopathicDoctor #NatMedWeek2024

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❓Did you know #Cardiovascular conditions, including #hypertension, rank among the top 10 reasons patients seek Naturopathic care? ❤️ Adjunct #NaturopathicCare shows reductions in #cardiovascular risk, total societal and employer costs. 📖 Access further information here: ➡️ https://lnkd.in/gHYEHxQr #WNF #NaturopathicWorkforce #NaturopathicResearch #Type2Diabetes #T2Diabetes

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Exploring Medical Cannabis, Holistic Health, and the Endocannabinoid System with Dr. Kirsten Kaye Shepherd Join us for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation with Dr. Kirsten Kaye Shepherd as she dives into: 🌱 The science behind the endocannabinoid system and how it regulates homeostasis. 🌱 Personal stories about integrating medical cannabis into patient care and improving quality of life. 🌱 The challenges and joys of creating online courses for bodyworkers and healthcare practitioners. 🌱 Her unique journey from massage therapy to chiropractic medicine and her holistic approach to healing. 🌱 The importance of addressing root causes in health, rather than just symptoms. Dr. Kirsten shares her personal experiences, professional insights, and a fresh perspective on navigating the world of modern healthcare, including the evolving role of medical cannabis. 🎧 Listen now on our website, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! 👉 Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and rethink what’s possible in bodywork and holistic health. Let us know your thoughts in the comments! #TreatmentRoomSecrets #PodcastEpisode #HolisticHealth #MedicalCannabis #ChiropracticCare #BodyworkProfessionals #HealingJourney

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TODAY IS THE DAY 👍🔥☄️👇👇👇📸💪💪 🚨 Webinar Reminder: "Benefits of Lean Muscle Mass, GLP-1 Driven Muscle Loss, and Utilization of Fortetropin for Muscle Health" – This Thursday! 🚨 Join @integrativepractitioner on Thursday, October 24th, at 2 PM ET for an exclusive webinar with Dr. Chris Meletis, MYOS MD Medical Advisor. Discover how GLP-1 protocols can accelerate muscle loss and the critical role of lean muscle mass in healthy aging. 💡 Key Topics: 🌟Muscle-derived myokines (a.k.a. Hope Molecules) and their impact on whole-body health ⚖️How GLP-1 protocols affect muscle loss and what can be done 💪The science behind Fortetropin, a food-based supplement that supports muscle preservation 🚫Understanding anabolic resistance and its challenge to maintaining muscle health with age This webinar is a must for healthcare professionals looking to equip themselves with practical strategies to help patients preserve muscle, improve metabolic health, and age well. 📅 Thursday, October 24, 2024 🕑 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM ET 💰 Free! 🔗 https://lnkd.in/edFH2wfB Don’t miss out on this science-driven session with @dr.meletis to expand your knowledge on muscle-centric wellness and new clinical tools for maintaining strength through every stage of life. #MuscleHealth #GLP1Protocols #Fortetropin #HealthyAging #MedicalWebinar #DrMeletis

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Understanding Fentanyl Addiction Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, making it highly addictive and dangerous. Originally used for managing severe pain in medical settings, fentanyl is often illicitly manufactured and mixed with other substances like heroin or counterfeit pills, increasing the risk of overdose. Fentanyl addiction develops quickly due to its intense effects on the brain’s reward system, often leading to tolerance, dependence, and, eventually, withdrawal symptoms. Signs of fentanyl addiction include frequent use, cravings, neglect of responsibilities, and physical withdrawal symptoms when not using. The high potency of fentanyl makes recovery particularly challenging, as withdrawal can be severe and dangerous. However, with proper treatment—including medically-assisted detox, therapy, and ongoing support—recovery is possible. Understanding the dangers of fentanyl and seeking help early can prevent life-threatening consequences. https://lnkd.in/ecNc28i9 #addiction #recovery

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Glutathione supplements are especially beneficial for individuals exposed to high levels of toxins, those with chronic illnesses, and anyone seeking to boost their detoxification processes. It's a must-have for people looking to improve their overall health, reduce inflammation, and support fertility. Dr. Gina Nick dives deeper into this as well as the essential role of glutathione in our latest episode! ✨ Go give this episode a watch by clicking this link: https://lnkd.in/di7Nn9Cq Ready to find out how you can heal your imbalances? Take the quiz now at: https://lnkd.in/gZr2KviC  👈 #WomensHealth #ReproductiveHealth #HealthYouniversity #Podcast

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Real-World Challenges of Psychedelic Therapies: Psychedelic therapies, poised for mainstream acceptance, are under scrutiny for their safety and efficacy. Dr. Rick Dart highlights the urgent need for post-market surveillance programs to navigate the complexities of implementing treatments like MDMA and ketamine safely. The critical importance of REMS

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OANDCon24 Speaker Spotlight! Dr. Paul Anderson, NMD, a renowned expert in the field of Naturopathic Medicine, will be presenting core therapies through the lens of recent research and his own clinical insights. He will emphasize that "the core is still core," demonstrating the importance of these foundational practices. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the leading voices in the field. Thanks to our keynote session sponsor Nutritional Fundamentals for Health Inc.!

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Vaping, eating disorders, and residency education are among the many topics covered in the 88 abstracts presented at the 2024 Annual Conference. Read them in our peer reviewed journal, Paediatrics & Child Health: https://ow.ly/QG9g50TUQ7h

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