Biofeedback is a treatment that uses instruments to measure functions such as breathing, skin temperature, brainwaves, muscles and heart function. By monitoring a patient's reaction to various stress and teaching him to control his response, biofeedback allows people to control physical reactions and to improve their health. The combination of good nutrition and biofeedback techniques can eliminate the conditions that lead to serious disease and relieve some symptoms of illness and medical conditions.
Eating Disorders
As many as 11 million Americans may suffer from eating disorders, with college students at particular risk, according to the University of California San Francisco. The university estimates that up to 30 percent of college students may develop an eating disorder. Risk factors include emotional habits and certain coping skills that escalate stress. Those at risk for or suffering from an eating disorder can tackle the causes by using biofeedback to control reactions to testing, challenging assignments and other academic pressures. In addition to therapies like biofeedback, UCSF Healthcare Services recommends eating a nutritious breakfast with healthy carbohydrates and protein and avoiding blood sugar fluctuations that can contribute to depression and anxiety. Foods to avoid include sugars, candy, sodas, fruit juices, white breads and white rice.
Digestive System
Biofeedback has been used for a number of digestive problems including constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and ulcers. Along with an appropriate diet, biofeedback sessions and self-practice techniques can help to relax and retrain muscles and restore digestive health. MayoClinic.com says to get enough dietary fiber to move food quickly through your digestive system, which lowers the risk of diseases of the colon. In addition, soluble fibers from whole grains, beans, citrus fruits, apples, peas and carrots can help to lower glucose levels and blood cholesterol.
Hypertension and Heart Disease
People with high blood pressure can benefit from learning and practicing biofeedback techniques and, in some cases, according to the Association for Applied Psychology and Feedback, hypertension can be controlled without medication. A number of factors contribute to successful biofeedback therapy, including the length of training and the incorporation of biofeedback techniques into lifestyle. MayoClinic.com points out that biofeedback can work for people who do not respond to or can't assimilate medications and that hypertension, heart problems, anxiety and stress may be treated with biofeedback. The clinic also recommends that people of any age should severely limit their sodium intake to prevent the onset of atherosclerotic diseases -- high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.
Cancer
Biofeedback can contribute to overall health, well-being and cancer prevention by reducing stress. It is not a cure for cancer but it can eliminate unpleasant symptoms of the disease, according to the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center. In addition to lowering tension, stress, pain and severity of depression, biofeedback may be used to help patients recover muscle tone and function after surgery. Diet is one of the best preventatives for cancer. MayoClinic.com advises people to focus on healthy fruits and vegetables, avoid high-fat foods and choose only lean animal proteins to reduce the risk of cancer.
References
- University of California San Francisco; Student Health & Counseling: Disordered Eating
- University of California San Francisco; Student Health & Counseling: Healthful Eating
- Association for Applied Psychology and Feedback: Hypertension
- MayoClinic.com: Biofeedback, Why It's Done
- MayoClinic.com: New Dietary Guidelines: How to Make Smart Choices
- MayoClinic.com: Cancer Prevention: 7 Tips to Reduce Your Risk
Member Comments