Bloomberg Chiropractic Center & Fortify I.V.

06/10/2026

06/03/2026

The Difference Between Headaches and Migraines:
Why It Matters
Most people have experienced a headache at some point in their life, but not all headaches are the same. Understanding the difference between a common headache and a migraine is important because the underlying causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches can vary significantly.
A tension headache is the most common type of headache. These headaches often feel like a dull ache or pressure around the forehead, temples, or back of the head. Many people describe the sensation as a “tight band” around the head. Tension headaches are commonly associated with stress, poor posture, muscle tightness, dehydration, eye strain, or lack of sleep.
Migraines, on the other hand, are much more complex neurological events. Migraine symptoms often go far beyond head pain alone. Many individuals experience nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light or sound, visual disturbances known as aura, dizziness, or fatigue. Migraine pain is frequently throbbing in nature and may occur on one side of the head.
Migraines can last for hours or even days and may significantly interfere with daily activities, work, exercise, and sleep.
Common migraine triggers include:
• Stress and emotional tension
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Dehydration
• Poor sleep quality
• Blood sugar instability
• Certain foods or additives
• Environmental changes
• Excessive screen time
Identifying the type of headache you are experiencing is important because treatment strategies differ. A person dealing with chronic muscle tension and postural strain may benefit from chiropractic care, soft tissue therapy, mobility work, hydration, and stress management. Someone experiencing migraines may need a more comprehensive approach that addresses neurological triggers, inflammation, hormonal balance, nutrition, and nervous system regulation.
Many patients simply assume frequent headaches are “normal,” but recurring headaches are often a sign that the body is under stress or imbalance.
At Bloomberg Chiropractic Center and Fortify I.V., we take a comprehensive approach to evaluating headaches and migraines. Rather than only masking symptoms, we work to identify contributing factors including muscle tension, lifestyle habits, inflammation, nutritional deficiencies, stress patterns, and overall health foundations.
If headaches or migraines are affecting your quality of life, a personalized evaluation may help uncover underlying causes and create a more effective long-term strategy for relief.

05/27/2026

Sulforaphane and the Gut–Immune–Autoimmune Connection
A Functional Medicine Perspective
Why Functional Medicine Is Interested in Sulforaphane
Sulforaphane has become one of the more interesting nutrition compounds in the functional and integrative medicine world because it appears to sit right at the intersection of gut health, immune regulation, oxidative stress, detoxification, and cellular resilience. It is not viewed as a “magic bullet,” but it may help support the terrain that influences inflammation and immune balance. Sulforaphane is derived primarily from broccoli sprouts and other cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, and arugula. Broccoli sprouts are especially concentrated.
The NRF2 Pathway — The Cellular Defense Switch
One of the biggest mechanisms discussed with sulforaphane is activation of the NRF2 pathway. Think of NRF2 like the body’s internal antioxidant thermostat, cellular cleanup coordinator, and stress adaptation switch. When NRF2 is activated, the body may increase production of protective compounds such as glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and phase II detoxification enzymes. These systems help the body manage oxidative stress, environmental toxin burden, inflammatory signaling, and cellular wear and tear.
Gut Barrier Support
One major area of interest is the intestinal lining. The gut lining is only one cell thick in many areas. When chronically irritated by poor diet, alcohol excess, chronic stress, dysbiosis, infections, ultra-processed foods, or environmental toxins …the immune system may become increasingly reactive. Emerging research suggests sulforaphane may help reduce oxidative stress in the intestinal lining, support tight junction integrity, influence inflammatory signaling in the gut, and improve microbial balance indirectly
Sulforaphane and the Microbiome

Healthy gut bacteria may help metabolize and activate compounds from cruciferous vegetables. At the same time, sulforaphane-rich foods may help create a healthier microbial environment. Some studies suggest possible influence on microbial diversity, inflammatory bacterial overgrowth patterns, endotoxin burden, and short-chain fatty acid signaling. This remains an emerging area of science but is promising.
Autoimmune “Volume Control”
Sulforaphane is generally not viewed as an immune suppressant. Researchers are exploring whether it helps regulate inflammatory signaling pathways instead. Rather than shutting down immunity, the goal may be better immune communication, reduced excessive inflammatory signaling, and improved oxidative stress handling. Think of it less like turning off the smoke detector and more like recalibrating an overly sensitive alarm system.
Histamine, Mast Cells, and Allergies
Some early research also suggests sulforaphane may influence histamine-related pathways, mast cell activation, and cytokine signaling. This has created interest around seasonal allergies, asthma, skin inflammation, and histamine sensitivity patterns.
Brain–Gut–Immune Connection
Inflammation in the gut may influence brain fog, mood, fatigue, and stress resilience. Sulforaphane is being researched for effects involving neuroinflammation, oxidative stress in the brain, mitochondrial support, and cellular repair signaling.
Broccoli Sprouts vs Supplements
Many practitioners prefer starting with food first. Broccoli sprouts contain extremely high concentrations of glucoraphanin, the precursor compound. However, conversion into sulforaphane depends on an enzyme called myrosinase. Ways to improve activation include lightly chopping sprouts before eating and allowing chopped sprouts to sit briefly. Avoid overcooking cruciferous vegetables and add mustard seed powder. Some supplements include activated sulforaphane or glucoraphanin plus myrosinase combinations. Quality varies substantially.
Practical Functional Medicine Perspective
Sulforaphane is often viewed as a cellular resilience compound, detoxification support nutrient, oxidative stress
modulator, and immune balance support tool. It is commonly combined with fiber support, gut microbiome work, omega-3s, polyphenols, sleep optimization, stress management, and blood sugar stabilization.

Clinical Reality
Not everybody tolerates aggressive detox-style protocols. Some sensitive individuals may experience GI upset, bloating, headaches, histamine-type reactions and fatigue during adjustment. This is why many practitioners prefer the approach: “Start low, go slow.”
A Simpler Explanation
“Sulforaphane is a natural compound from broccoli sprouts that appears to help the body improve its internal cleanup and defense systems. Rather than acting like a drug that blocks inflammation, it may help cells become more resilient and better regulated — especially in the gut and immune system.”

05/15/2026

Just like a tall building depends on a strong foundation, your health depends on the basics done consistently. Without a solid foundation, even the strongest structure can become unstable over time. The same is true for your body.

The foundations of health:
😴 Sleep
🧠 Stress management
🥗 Nutrition
💪 Exercise

These core habits support energy, recovery, hormones, immune function, and long-term wellness. Before chasing quick fixes, strengthen the foundation first. Small daily habits create long-term results. Strong foundations build strong health.

05/13/2026

Gut Health and Psoriasis in Children: Looking Beyond the Skin
Psoriasis in children is often viewed as a skin condition—red, scaly patches that can be uncomfortable and sometimes distressing for both the child and their family. But emerging research and clinical experience suggest something deeper may be involved. In many cases, psoriasis is not just a skin issue. It is a systemic inflammatory condition, and one of the key drivers of that inflammation may begin in the gut.
Understanding the Gut–Skin Connection
The digestive system plays a central role in overall health. It is home to trillions of bacteria—collectively known as the gut microbiome—and houses a large portion of the immune system. When the gut is functioning properly, it helps regulate inflammation and supports immune balance. However, when the gut becomes disrupted, it can send signals throughout the body that contribute to inflammation—including in the skin. This relationship is often referred to as the gut–skin axis.
What Can Go Wrong in the Gut?
Several common issues may contribute to inflammation that affects the skin:
Microbial Imbalance (Dysbiosis)
An imbalance between beneficial and harmful bacteria can overstimulate the immune system.
Increased Intestinal Permeability
Sometimes called “leaky gut,” this occurs when the intestinal lining becomes compromised, allowing substances like toxins and food particles to enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammation.
Immune Activation
When the immune system is constantly stimulated, it can lead to the release of inflammatory signals that are associated with psoriasis.
Signs That the Gut May Be Involved
In children with psoriasis, certain symptoms may suggest an underlying gut component:
Frequent stomach aches or bloating
Constipation or diarrhea
Food sensitivities
Recurrent infections
Fatigue
Fluctuating skin flare-ups
These signs do not prove a gut issue, but they can be important clues.
Why This Matters for Treatment
Traditional treatments for psoriasis often focus on the skin itself. While these approaches can be effective in managing symptoms, they may not always address underlying causes. By considering gut health, providers may be able to:
Reduce the frequency of flare-ups
Improve the severity of symptoms
Support overall immune balance
Enhance response to standard treatments
A More Comprehensive Approach
Supporting gut health does not replace dermatologic care—it complements it. Simple foundational strategies may include:
Emphasizing whole, nutrient-dense foods
Reducing highly processed foods and added sugars
Supporting a healthy balance of gut bacteria
Encouraging adequate hydration and sleep
Managing stress, which can affect both gut and skin health
The Role of Testing
In some cases, more advanced testing may be helpful to better understand what is happening in the gut. Stool-based microbiome testing (such as GI-MAP) can evaluate:
The balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria
Markers of inflammation in the gut
Signs of digestive or immune stress
Food sensitivity testing may also help identify foods that are contributing to inflammation. These tools can provide a more personalized approach to care when appropriate.

A Message for Parents
If your child is dealing with psoriasis, it is important to know that you are not alone—and that there may be more options to explore beyond topical treatments alone. Looking at the whole picture—including gut health—can offer additional insight and, in some cases, meaningful improvement.
Important Note
Always consult with your health care provider before making changes to your child’s diet or treatment plan.
Closing Thought
The skin often reflects what is happening inside the body. By paying attention to gut health, we may not only support better digestion—but also help children achieve healthier, more resilient skin.
Need more information give us a shout at Bloomberg Chiropractic Center 618-783-2424

05/11/2026

If this resonates with you, give our office a call. We can help. 618-783-2424