Dr. Francisco Cabal - Special Issue

S P E C I A L I S S U E | DR. FRANCISCO CABAL

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TEAS THAT MAY SUPPORT THE IMMUNE SYSTEM PG 18

A HEART FOR VIP SERVICE: AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. FRANCISCO CABAL PG 30

My dream is to be able to make people work together for one specific objective—the recovery of my patient.

- DR. FRANCISCO CABAL

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TEAM EDITOR IN CHIEF Brianna Connors JUNIOR EDITOR Riley George CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER H a n n a h To w n e s

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CONTRIBUTORS Gaye N., Luke A., Mălina O. R., Peter C., Y u k o T.

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Leading a healthy, well-balanced life is a challenging undertaking for many of us.

New advancements in lifestyle or nutrition come to life daily, and the busy rhythm of our lives often prevents us from keeping up with what’s fun and fresh.

Here at Top Doctor Magazine, we are on a mission to bring these advancements to your attention and become a source of inspiration for those who want to live their lives to the fullest. Our contributors will constantly keep you up to speed with fresh, entertaining, and reliable content, from nutrition and travel to lifestyle choices!

We hope that our handpicked ideas will guide you towards self-realization, selfimprovement, and willingness to help those around you better themselves.

C ONTE N TS 08

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Eczema: What is it?

Augmented Reality and Medicine

08 5 Teas that may Support the Immune System

What are the Most Common Types of Intermittent Fasting?

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30

18

36

A Heart for VIP Service: An Interview With Dr. Francisco Cabal

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42

Everything You Need to Know about Cryotherapy

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42

46

22

Is Your Positivity Toxic?

The Benefits of Red Light Therapy

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30

46

08

what is it?

eczema

8

T

he most significant organ of the human body

moments, but specific triggers can speed it up.

is the skin, and we have to keep it healthy and clean as it represents a massive part of us.

However, as with any other body part, the skin can encounter medical issues, such as eczema.

ECZEMA: WHAT IS IT? Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a condition that causes your skin to blister and become itchy, dry and full of rashes. The symptoms depend on the type of eczema you are experiencing. This skin infection is widespread in children (i.e., infantile eczema and

TYPES OF ECZEMA Eczema is very well known for the variety of types it presents. Each eczema type comes with a set of symptoms to help you identify it.

Atopic Dermatitis Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema.

It is mainly seen in children and can be mild or severe.

Parents can hand down atopic dermatitis to children through DNA. Children with atopic dermatitis are more likely to develop food sensitivity, hay fever or asthma.

childhood eczema), especially those going through

Symptoms of atopic dermatitis include itchy and

puberty. But this does not mean adults are safe from

inflamed skin and redness. This type of eczema usually

eczema.

appears on the knees, neck, creases of the elbows, wrists

An important detail of eczema is that it is chronic,

and facial skin.

meaning it can last for lengthy periods. In addition,

Cold weather, low humidity, detergents, soaps, perfume,

eczema can have different stages of magnitude,

animal hair or saliva, scabies, dust, wool, synthetics,

named by the people with this skin condition as

food allergies and hormonal changes can trigger severe

‘flare-ups.’ Usually, flare-ups erupt in unexpected

atopic dermatitis flare-ups.

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 9

Contact Dermatitis Contact dermatitis appears when your skin comes in contact with certain substances. As a result, the skin patch becomes red, dry and itchy. It can also blister very quickly and turn into a hive, a type of rash resembling small red bumps.

This type of eczema increases its chance of appearing if you already suffer from

that become itchier and itchier with each scratch. Repeatedly scratching the skin patch causes it to become thick and leathery. The scratching cycle can disrupt your sleep schedule, sexual drive and general quality of life. Neurodermatitis usually develops on the wrists, legs, neck, forearms and anal region.

Dyshidrotic Eczema

atopic dermatitis. Contact dermatitis

Dyshidrotic eczema, also known as

can either be irritant or allergic. Irritant

pompholyx eczema, is a skin condition

contact dermatitis appears when your

that usually appears in people under 40

skin comes in contact with substances

years old. It manifests itself by spreading

that irritate the skin, such as:

small blisters all over the hands and feet, becoming incredibly itchy, filling with

Seborrheic dermatitis is the only type of eczema that mainly affects your scalp. It manifests itself through scaly patches, red skin and dandruff spreading on your scalp and face. It can also affect oily parts of the body such as the sides of the nose, eyebrows, eyelids, ears and chest. The main seborrheic dermatitis triggers are: Certain medications; Weak immune system; Illnesses such as (e.g., HIV, AIDS and cancer) and alcoholic pancreatitis; Going through an arduous recovery, especially from a heart attack.

Solvents;

liquid and turning infectious. In addition,

Cement;

the blisters can become very painful as

Weed killers;

they swell up and ooze pus.

Stasis Dermatitis

It has not been discovered what causes

Stasis dermatitis is the type of eczema

Acids and alkalis; Hair dyes; Different types of shampoo; Fabric softeners and harsh detergents.

dyshidrotic eczema to develop, but it is

that usually spreads around the lower

more common in people experiencing

legs. The main cause of stasis dermatitis

hay fever, fungal skin infections and

is a condition called chronic edema.

Allergic contact dermatitis develops

atopic dermatitis. In addition, it can

Chronic edema is the swelling caused

when a person’s immune system

sometimes be triggered by emotional

by excess fluid in the body tissue. Stasis

considers particular substances as

stress and drastic weather changes.

dermatitis turns the skin around your

allergens. Usually, once the body deems

lower leg red and very itchy. It can also

a substance an allergen, you will be

lead to more dangerous symptoms

allergic to it. Examples of possible allergens are: Latex; Fabrics and clothing dyes; Glue and adhesive; Plants like sumac, poison oak and poison ivy; Medications such as oral antibiotics

Nummular Eczema Nummular eczema, also known as discoid eczema, is easily recognized because of the circular-shaped patches of itchy, red and swollen skin that it causes. This type of eczema usually affects the lower legs, forearms and torso.

Nummular eczema can be triggered by:

and topical; Makeup and different cosmetics;

Cold weather;

Nail polish.

Bacterial skin infections; Insect bites;

Neurodermatitis Neurodermatitis is a more severe

10

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Dry skin; Injuries such as burns, friction and slashes;

eczema type. It manifests itself by

Certain medication;

developing itchy patches on your skin

Atopic dermatitis.

such as hyperpigmentation, pus and lichenification.

ECZEMA SYMPTOMS Eczema varies in the types and symptoms you can experience. Usually, each type of eczema has different symptoms to help you identify it. But, even with all of these types, there are a

BODY AREAS PREDISPOSED TO ECZEMA The affected skin areas vary because

Eczema Versus Hives Hives, also known as urticaria, are an allergic reaction to factors your body considers allergens. A significant

difference

between

eczema and hives is that eczema

so many types of eczema are different

turns the patch of skin very dry

in how they manifest and the areas

and leathery, while hives only cause

they affect. Most types of eczema

large bumps to appear without any

affect the face, neck, wrists and hands,

fluid.

but they can also spread on your legs, feet, scalp and anal region.

few symptoms of eczema experienced through each of them, such as:

Itching; Dry skin; Sensitive skin; Swelling; Oozing; Crusting of the skin; Inflammation; Discoloration of the skin patch; Lathery or scaly skin patches.

HOW OFTEN DOES ECZEMA FLARE UP? Three things can be said about eczema flare-ups: they are occasional, chaotic and triggered by different factors. If you think you have figured out what causes your eczema flare-ups, you

Eczema Versus Rosacea

can diminish them by keeping your

Rosacea is a skin condition that also

distance from triggers.

causes redness, itching and bumps to appear on the skin. It’s challenging to tell eczema and rosacea apart,

Eczema Versus Psoriasis Psoriasis is a skin disease that manifests itself similarly to eczema.

However, there are ways to tell them apart. Eczema causes such intense itchiness that you can

but you will find differences if you pay close attention to the details.

For example, eczema does not cause flushing of the skin or make your blood vessels more visible, such as rosacea.

start bleeding if you can’t avoid scratching. The skin patch turns red, inflamed, crusty and can scale and ooze.

On the other hand, psoriasis also causes itchy skin, but the skin also stings and burns. Psoriasis also causes red patches of skin, but the patches are much thicker and more inflamed than eczema.

Eczema Versus Shingles Both skin conditions cause the skin to become inflamed, itchy and somewhat painful. Shingles are considered to be herpes caused by a virus named varicella-zoster virus.

Specific differences between the two conditions are:

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 11

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Rashes caused by shingles appear on only

ups will stop. The most common treatment

one side of the body, while the rash caused by

modalities are:

eczema spreads on both sides.

Shingles cause burning and tingling before the rash appears;

Topical treatments such as creams and mild soaps to stop the itching and repair the skin; Prescription medications that fight the infection

Shingles cause fatigue;

and control the inflammation;

Shingles usually disappear after a few weeks,

Therapies such as wet dressings, counseling and

while eczema is chronic.

light therapy; Behavior modification to stop scratching

ECZEMA DURING PREGNANCY Experiencing eczema during pregnancy will not put a pregnant woman or her fetus in danger.

But, because it’s a chronic condition, eczema can continue even after pregnancy. So, if you would like to follow up on treatment for eczema during pregnancy, talk to your doctor first, as they can prescribe you a treatment that won’t put you or the child in danger.

yourself.

ECZEMA FOODS TO AVOID Since people with eczema have different triggers and allergens, it’s hard to put your finger on eczema-related foods. You first have to determine which foods are causing the skin reaction and flare-ups. When you find that the eczema symptoms worsen after eating a particular type of food, it’s time to remove it

CAN ECZEMA CAUSE HAIR LOSS? Only seborrheic dermatitis can cause hair loss if left untreated. This happens because the hair finds it difficult to grow through an unhealthy and inflamed scalp. Also, people with seborrheic dermatitis tend to scratch their scalp, leading to hair loss.

from your diet. The most common foods that trigger eczema and eczema flare-up are: Dairy; Eggs; Soy; Gluten; Wealth; Citrus fruits; Nuts; Spices; Tomatoes; Pears.

FACIAL ECZEMA TREATMENTS

CAN ECZEMA BE CURED?

Because eczema is persistent, you may need to

Unfortunately, there is no absolute cure for this

try various treatments over a long period until

skin condition because eczema is chronic. Some

you find something that genuinely controls the

treatments can diminish the eczema symptoms

skin condition. But this does not mean that it

and even stop them for weeks, but there is no

will genuinely disappear and that the flare-

cure.

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 13

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A PARTING REMINDER If you think you may suffer from eczema, it’s essential to consult a doctor or dermatologist since this condition can become dangerous if left untreated. However, you can live a happy and healthy life with proper treatment modalities, even if your eczema will never truly vanish.

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 15

RICHARD MACDONALD The National Sculpture Society New York City awarded Richard MacDonald’s Duality, the 2022 Maurice B. Hexter Medal of Honor. Exemplifing the idea that the melding and balancing of opposites creates balance, harmony, and insite into the pervasive principle of Yin & Yang. Masterful sculptors of every era and culture move into the complex field of multiple figure compositions to explore the full emotional range possible when figures interact. Multiple figure compositions create in implied narrative, a suggested relationship, and ultimately, for the viewer. Richard MacDonald has been exploring the complex visual, aesthetic and conceptual relationships of multiple figures throughout his career, and the newest work Duality highlights a theme that runs through the diverse collection. w brings into focus the idea that darkness is defined by light, strength is balanced by tenderness, and that in the balance of opposing forces there is a center of tranquility and peace. It is the age-old concept of Yin and Yang echoed in a new form, and through this lens earlier works can be seen to exhibit the same dynamic balance.

NATIONAL SCULPTURE SOCEITY MAURICE B. HEXTER PRIZE WINNER

THE ART OF RICHARD MACDONALD GALLERY | BELLAGIO RESORT AND CASINO “O” THEATRE 3 6 0 0 S L A S V E G A S B L V D L A S V E G A S N V 8 9 1 0 9

T H E A R T O F R I C H A R D M A C D O N A L D . C O M

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7 0 2 . 7 3 0 . 3 9 9 0

5teas

that may support the immune system WORDS BY MĂLINA O. R.

18

T

ea is known for being one of the

icals, your body will be more prone to

healthiest and tastiest beverages

developing cancer, heart diseases, Par-

(unless you’re on team coffee,

kinson’s disease and respiratory diseas-

of course). Almost any type of tea has a

es. Therefore, your immune system will

positive effect on your body, but certain

thank you for the additional antioxidants

plants can prove vital when talking about

from green tea.

the health of your immune system.

How Does Tea Support the Immune System?

Tea contains polyphenols, a group of antioxidants linked to the health benefits that tea brings to the table. This beverage also contains flavonols and other chemicals proven to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. In addition, the

Furthermore, long-term consumption of green tea reduces the risk of diseases such as: • Liver diseases; • Viral diseases; • Coronary diseases; • Bacterial infections; • Obesity; • Type II diabetes.

antioxidants found in tea help protect

2: Black Tea

your body against harmful effects caused

Although many people do not enjoy the

by smoking, pollution and UV rays.

taste of black tea, they might consider

1: Green Tea

giving it a second chance after finding

Green tea has overall positive benefits for your body. This healthy source of catechins and antioxidants is especially effective against free radicals.

out how it helps the immune system.

Besides helping the body fight free radicals, black tea contains tannins (i.e., antioxidants) that cause the beverage’s abnormal taste. Tannins are an excellent

Antioxidants are produced by the human

weapon against conditions such as

body but not in sufficient quantities. If

influenza, hepatitis and dysentery. The

your body cannot fight these free rad-

antioxidants in black tea are perfect

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 19

Drinking delicious beverages like these tea options will improve your health and help your body fight any incoming illnesses.

against strokes, cholesterol build-up, high

tioxidants in white tea are proven to be

blood pressure and high sugar levels.

effective against fungal, bacterial and vi-

They also encourage the production of

ral infections. In addition, white tea pro-

healthy gut bacteria. If you want to enjoy

tects the immune cells responsible for

these amazing health benefits and kick the

locating cancerous by-products.

coffee habit, black tea is the place to start!

5: Turmeric Tea

3: Ginger Tea

is turmeric tea. This amazing beverage

antibacterial properties and is excellent

promotes the function of T and B cells,

for escaping nausea. Ginger, in general,

which are essential parts of the immune

has many health benefits, and by turning

system. Moreover, turmeric tea fights

it into a cup of tea, it becomes more plea-

inflammation, arthritis, asthma, allergies,

surable. Antioxidants are also present in

diabetes, cancer and heart diseases.

ginger tea which improve blood circula-

A Parting Reminder

tion and help with congestion.

Keeping your immune system healthy

Ginger tea is ideal for a healthier im-

and enjoying yourself always go together.

mune system and faster recovery during

Drinking delicious beverages like these

flu season, as it is known to fight pain,

tea options will improve your health

fevers, coughing and infections.

and help your body fight any incoming

4: White Tea

illnesses. You can enjoy a cup of hot tea

White tea is an immune system boosting beverage with a light and delicate taste. Known to have similar properties to green tea but not as powerful, the an-

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The last but not least beverage on our list

This spicy tea has anti-inflammatory and

while working, reading or watching your favorite series. You can always squeeze a cup of tea into your day to boost your immune system!

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 21

22

T

BY YUKO TABASA

oo much of anything is bad, even when it’s something good.

As much as we want to always stay positive and spread good vibes to everyone we meet, there are just some moments in

life when looking at the bright side will not fix a situation.

So, where should we draw a line between genuine optimism and toxic positivity? Perhaps it’s time to delve inwards to see if your overly sunny disposition may just be a defense mechanism to avoid facing the truth of a not-so-perfect reality.

WHAT IS TOXIC POSITIVITY? According to The Psychology Group, toxic positivity amounts to excessively overgeneralizing a happy or positive state on any given occasion that leads to denying, minimizing and invalidating an authentic human emotional experience.

Part of what makes life worth living is the broad spectrum of emotions we get to feel and experience. Joy, love, sadness, pain, anger, loss, excitement, fear, disappointment—the list goes on.

That’s why you often hear people say that life is like a rollercoaster ride: sometimes you go up, sometimes you go down. In those down moments, it’s important to lean in and accept them for what they are instead of trying to escape them.

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 23

Toxic positivity masks the true and unpleasant

that the rain clouds are also there, which is what

reality with a false perception that the world is

optimism essentially is!

full of rainbows and butterflies. Such a perception is harmful to your mind and body because you’re creating a narrative that everything is great when the reality is, you’re scared to face the negative emotions tied to a situation.

IS TOXIC POSITIVITY REAL? Toxic positivity is real, and you can spot the

is that optimism is rooted in the sense of reality, where the person knows and accepts the dire situation in front of them but still believes the tough times won’t last forever. As a result, optimistic people proactively search for a way to try and upheave the situation they’re in.

signs when you or someone you know might be

On the other hand, toxic positivity disengages

guilty of toxic positivity.

from reality and pretends everything is fine when

Signs of Toxic Positivity to Look Out For

it isn’t. And while it may seem like a good idea to

• Hiding or disguising your true feelings; • Minimizing other people’s experiences and emotions by using ‘feel good’ statements; • Feeling guilty for feeling negative emotions like sadness, anger or disappointment; • Brushing off your problems with an ‘it is what it is’ attitude • Shaming or chastising others for expressing negative emotions or anything other than positivity; • Invalidating someone’s emotional experience by saying things like ‘it could be worse’; • Dismissing emotions or trying to sweep them under the rug.

If you found yourself nodding and gasping, that’s me! to four or more of these signs, then maybe it’s time to take a step back and reflect on why you may be acting this way. Not showing your genuine emotions or invalidating others’ feelings

‘fake it til’ you make it’ by being positive all the time, this coping mechanism becomes limiting because you are not allowing yourself to face the negative feelings and harsh truth in front of you.

HOW TO AVOID TOXIC POSITIVITY The way to overcome your toxic positivity is by allowing yourself to feel all the negative emotions. Jasmine Marie, a breathwork coach and founder of Black Girls Breathing, even suggests that you don’t have to look at them as ‘negative’ emotions at all: sadness, anger and grief aren’t inherently negative. These feelings are just responses to what’s happening to us.

Instead, Jasmine encourages us to use these feelings as indicators to become more aware of ourselves.

Ask yourself, what do I need to pay attention to? and what do I need to give myself compassion on? whenever these ‘negative’ feelings arise.

can create a wall that will prevent you from

The sooner you learn to sit with these uncomfort-

connecting with yourself and others. People

able emotions and understand them for what they

might even think of you as someone who lacks

are, the sooner you can move forward with feeling

empathy and will naturally steer away from you.

genuine happiness and positivity.

TOXIC POSITIVITY VERSUS OPTIMISM

We often choose the easy route and escape, not

How are you supposed to stop toxic positivity from controlling your life? Experts say that allowing yourself and others to feel a certain amount of compassion and catharsis is the best way to spread genuine positivity. So, when you’re looking for a silver lining, acknowledge

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What sets apart toxic positivity from optimism

realizing that our problems will just come back for us unless we decide to face them head-on.

Sitting with our emotions and thoughts will help us become more comfortable in discomfort, making us stronger and ready to slay the next dragon that comes for us.

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 25

AUGMENTED

REALITY AND MEDICINE WRITTEN BY LUKE ARGUE

T

he future is now, thanks to science! As our technology advances

and our digital world continues to develop, the line between the real world and the digital becomes increasingly blurred.

One example of this blurring is augmented reality (AR). Through augmented reality, we can put parts of our digital world on top of our physical one. Typically, we think about augmented reality’s implications for entertainment, shopping experiences and social media. But beyond those industries, AR could completely reimagine how we experience and receive medical care.

What is Augmented Reality?

Augmented reality is best understood as an interactive experience of a real-world environment. That means that through AR, you’re able to interact with your real-world environment through digital technology. Often, this means using a combination of cameras and displays to project a digital image over something in the real world to allow us to interact and change it in real-time.

A good example of AR technology is Google’s old Google Glass project. Google Glass worked by projecting digital images through a pair of glasses so that you could see the digital images in the real world. It allowed users not only to see the real world but also to see it digitally enhanced.

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Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 27

How is Augmented Reality Used Daily?

Bringing Labels on Wine Bottles to Life

Even more than just the example of Google Glass, currently, with

AR is also being used daily to make labels on wine bottles more

even more developed AR technology, we cannot only place digital

interactive, which might be the future of product decoration. For

things into a physical world, but we can also make those digital

example, the company Living Wine Labels uses augmented reality

images interactive and reactive. You can use AR all across your

to turn their labels into an interactive storytelling experience and

daily life. You may have come across some of these common

incorporate fun experiences that add value to their wine for their

applications of AR already, but even if you haven’t, AR will likely

customers.

continue to be a bigger and bigger part of daily life.

Visualizing New Finishes or Furniture in Your House

Translating Signs into Different Languages Perhaps the most exciting usage of AR in our daily lives is the ability to translate street signs and other text into different languages using our phones’ cameras. One of the companies that spearheaded this technology is Word Lens, a smartphone app

AR technology can help you remodel or decorate your home.

that allows users to use their cameras to translate street signs and

Through AR, you can see what that couch, paint color, finish,

text in real-time. Apps like Word Lens work almost magically by

etc., would look like in your house before you buy it and have to

replacing the original text with translated text in the same font

go through the trouble of installing it.

and size as the original, giving you a digital window into a world

With AR, you can simply pull up a digital image of your new sofa and see it in your current living room. This lets you make more

where all the signs and words are translated into your language of choice.

informed decisions as a consumer because instead of taking a risk on a new couch, paint color or home, you know how that

28

new product will look in your home or what your new home

How Does Augmented Reality Work?

will look like.

So how exactly does all of this seemingly magical technology

work? Through a concept called Volumetric Video.

Volumetric Video works by capturing a three-dimensional object or space, allowing that same object or space to be digitally viewed as three-dimensional. It gets its name from its ability to capture volume or the three-dimensional space an object occupies. By

With AR, the patient will see the proposed aesthetic change before the surgery and be able to move around with it, interact with it and work with the doctor to tailor it to their preferences. This will lead to greater patient satisfaction and easier communication for doctors.

reproducing that volume, you can make an object digitally interactive as it would be in the real world.

Augmented reality relies on this technology to capture an object and space in 3D and overlay additional information to that image.

For example, AR can use volumetric video to accurately scan a room and then put a digital image of a physical object that can be digitally interacted with as though it was actually in the room.

Using AR to Try Hairstyles and Glasses AR has a similar application when it comes to selecting a new hairstyle or pair of glasses. Much like how you can visualize the result of a surgery or interact with proposed cosmetic changes, you can also use AR to see how a hairstyle would look on you.

Then, you can move it around, change the color, and interact with it until you’re satisfied with the end result.

How Can Augmented Reality Impact

The same is true for choosing a pair or style of glasses. You won’t

Medicine?

you can use AR technology to try on and interact with new glasses

AR can reinvent how patients experience medical care by helping

from anywhere!

need to have a physical pair of glasses with you anymore. Instead,

them visualize results, make medical advice more memorable and explain how a treatment or illness will affect them.

Prosthetics In prosthetics, AR can be used to give patients an idea of what their prosthetic might look like and how they would be able to move and interact with it. The doctor could use AR to help explain how the prosthetic would work in a way that the patient would better understand because they would be digitally interacting with it as the doctor explains it.

Closing Thoughts about Augmented Reality and Medicine Augmented reality is slowly changing many levels of our society, particularly how consumers and patients experience their products or care. In medicine, AR makes it easier to visualize and understand outcomes, removing the anxiety of undergoing prosthetic or aesthetic procedures through clearer communication.

Making it easier and simpler for doctors to explain complex

Aesthetics AR can also be used for aesthetic medical procedures like plastic surgery, implants or fillers. The hardest thing about these procedures for the patient is the unknown of whether they’ll like

medical procedures and outcomes to patients and for patients to understand and give feedback on proposed outcomes. Through these innovations, AR will make medical care clearer, simpler and less stressful for all, improving the patient experience and making care provisions easier.

the aesthetic changes from the surgery.

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 29

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A HEART FOR VIP SERVICE WRITTEN BY GAYE NEWTON

An Interview With Dr. Francisco Cabal “My dream is to be able to make people work together for one specific objective—the recovery of my patient.”

directors of some of these clinics.

“Someone reading this might question how a doctor can open so many businesses. It comes from my father. He was one of the most important businessmen in Colombia in the 60s and 70s. It’s in my blood,” he explained.

About Dr. Cabal “Even as a little kid, I was always attracted to health services. No one in my family was a doctor, so my interest originated with my regular checkups and athletic injuries necessitated several visits that helped spark my interest

Dr. Francisco Cabal, MD, believes in a team-based concierge medical services model in which all parties involved coordinate their roles to get the best results (doctors, pharmacists, insurance companies, hospitals, other medical providers and even patients and their families).

in medicine. During my school years, I tried to be strong

Dr. Cabal has found a way to achieve his goal. For almost

in all the academic subjects that were important to reach

11 years, he has been co-owner and CEO of Icare Web

that goal,” he shared.

and Icare Medical Services, based in Miami, Florida. He

He completed medical school in Colombia in 1988 and embarked on a challenging practice encompassing several government-run hospitals, where he treated impoverished people experiencing trauma. After completing

has over 30 years of experience and a strong influence in Latin America’s private and public healthcare. Dr. Cabal is also the founder of Mi Doctor, the first web-based telehealth system in Latin America.

additional training in trauma and orthopedics, both in

To further his goals, Dr. Cabal has teamed up with Top-

Colombia and the U.S., he opened several clinical depart-

Doc Clinics International and Thor Clinics System Struc-

ments and led most of the growth and academic devel-

turing which hold great potential and opportunities in

opment of these groups in the best clinics in Colombia.

the partnership and tremendous benefits for patients in

From there, they invited him to be part of the board of

the Business of International Medicine.

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 31

“I started private companies, including Icare Medical Services and Mi Doctor, and ran them for several years. It was the first platform to care for patients remotely, even before the pandemic. So, when the pandemic came along, we were ready,” he explained.

Meanwhile, since he began his career in 1988, Dr. Cabal has been working with open-care medical services that treated patients from many countries, such as the U.S., U.K., Commonwealth countries, the European Union and the Middle East, as well as VIP visitors, including several U.S. presidents.

“Probably the most exciting experience was the visit of U.S. presidents, such as George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Bill Clinton. That was an incredible learning process,” he shared.

With the excitement came realizations about how to structure international concierge medical services.

“That led us to structure the platform to export medical services worldwide.

We have treated and sent patients to Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia.

Patients from all continents have come to Colombia to be treated here,” he shared.

Dr. Cabal and his medical business have brought to Colombia doctors, technology and insurance companies that have patients there or want to grow a presence all around Latin America. They recently opened their first facility in England.

“It’s easy to get good health resources, and we also have so many good doctors all around the U.S. and Ibero-America. What is not easy is putting it all together in a concierge service model,” he explained.

Special Patients Patients have additional worries when they become sick or injured while traveling abroad. Therefore, they deserve special, personal care.

“Being sick in a foreign country is a completely different challenge because of barriers in procedures, language and customs in the way of understanding what is going on, being part of the solution and getting better. But because I have a team of professionals that work around our alliance, we are always focused on the little details that will make our patients, their families and their lives easier,” he explained.

To get the best results possible for the patients, Dr. Cabal must coach everyone with any role on the team — doctors, nurses, the people in general services, the driver, the people from the cafeteria — everyone!

“What we want is a platform that gives the best care and complete concierge services to our visitors. And with the money coming in, we can train more health personnel, build more infrastructure and be better up-to-date in technology. The financial resources from this model will strengthen us,” he shared.

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Pictured here is Dr. Francisco Cabal with Dr. Juan Carlos Lopez, Orthopedist

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I have always been obsessed with providing people with a service that makes their lives easier.

- Dr. Cabal

Collaborating With TopDoc Clinics By joining forces with TopDoc Clinics, Dr. Cabal’s clinics are growing faster than expected. He points out that his model works especially well because doctors are looking for a partner, not an advisor.

“We share our knowledge, opportunities and our market with them. That’s what they’re looking for. They know we’re not trying to get an advantage from them; we want to team up with them,” he explained.

Dr. Cabal’s staff includes a large spectrum of specialties and always seeks the best to join them.

“Plastic surgeons and dermatologists will be the center of our aesthetic, functional medicine and sport medicine clinics. Then there are the ‘excellence centers,’ which include internists and specialized surgeons. Finally, other walk-in clinics and urgent care with our family doctors, paramedic specialties or health professionals,” he shared.

Clinics like Miami Brickell will focus on hair transplants, noninvasive procedures and invasive treatments in aesthetics, sport, sexual performance and preventive medicine.

“This combination of abilities makes TopDoc Clinics the best option for many of the communities we are going to,” he shared.

A Career of Service “I have always been obsessed with providing people with a service that makes their lives easier,” said Dr. Cabal. “When companies deal with health risk incidents, we can be part of the solution. It has always been my goal to give the best results possible to anyone who wants my help.”

Dr. Cabal and his team have developed a unique healthcare model that provides the best patient care possible. By collaborating with all the players in the patient’s medical journey, he gives patients consistent information and care, bettering their health and lives.

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W H AT

T E R A

HE

MOST COMMON TYPES OF INTERMITTENT FASTING? 36

I

WORDS BY PETER C.

ntermittent fasting has become a popular

Intermittent fasting has been shown to improve blood

way to lose weight, feel better and improve

sugar control and reduce insulin resistance, leading to

overall health. It involves periods of fasting

weight loss. It can also help lower cholesterol levels and

followed by periods of eating. There are

reduce the risk of heart disease.

many different types of intermittent fasting,

each with its own set of rules and benefits.

Intermittent fasting comes with its own vast array of benefits, such as reducing your risk of chronic diseases

such as heart disease and diabetes. Fasting also helps to boost your metabolism and burn fat more effectively.

INTERMITTENT FASTING INTERVALS The most common fasting protocols are 16/8, 18/6, and 20/4—all referring to fasting for a certain number of

When you fast, your body is forced to rely on stored

hours per day and then eating within an 8-hour window.

energy, which means it will start to break down fat cells

For example, with the 16/8 protocol, you would fast for

for fuel. This process can help you lose weight quickly

16 hours each day and eat only during an 8-hour window.

and effectively. Intermittent fasting is a great way to kickstart your weight loss journey!

Other less common fasting protocols include the 5:2 diet, which involves fasting for two days each week and eating normally the other five days.

WHAT IS INTERMITTENT FASTING? Intermittent fasting is a dietary pattern that cycles between periods of fasting and non-fasting.

The 16/8 Method or Leangains Protocol The 16/8 method involves fasting for 16 hours and eating only during an 8-hour window. Also called the Leangains protocol, this fasting method was popularized by fitness expert Martin Berkhan. It is the

The idea behind intermittent fasting is that we should

most popular type of intermittent fasting as it is the

not eat for a certain period of time, usually 12-24 hours,

easiest to stick to.

in order to give our bodies a break from digesting food.

Depending on what works best for you, you can resort to fasting daily or weekly.

For example, let’s say you finish your last meal at 8 p.m. and don’t eat again until noon the next day—you are fasting for 16 hours every day. You can drink water,

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 37

lead to dehydration, dizziness and hunger pangs. black coffee, tea and other zero-calorie beverages

Be sure to speak with your doctor first if you’re

during the fasting period.

considering trying the OMAD diet.

18/6 Interval 18/6 fasting is a protocol where you fast for 18 hours out of the day and eat only during a 6-hour window.

INTERMITTENT FASTING RISKS

This fasting protocol, having a more extended time window than the 16/8 interval, is popular among

If you’re considering intermittent fasting, it’s

people trying to lose weight.

important to understand the different types of

Warrior Diet (20/4 Interval) The Warrior Diet is a type of intermittent fasting

fasting and the potential health risks associated with each one. Fasting can be a great way to improve your health, but it’s not for everyone.

that involves eating small amounts of raw fruits and vegetables during the day and then eating one large meal at night. Typically the interval is 20 hours of small amounts of food and 4 hours of eating a large meal. This diet is based on the belief that our ancestors ate this way and that it’s more appropriate for food digestion.

However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim, making the Warrior Diet quite dangerous to your overall health. Because you’re not eating enough calories during the day, you may feel weak and dizzy, and even faint. Be sure to speak with your doctor first if you decide to try the Warrior Diet.

OMAD Diet The OMAD diet, or “one meal a day,” is a type of fasting in which you eat only one meal per day, typically for a 23-hour period. It is the most

Here’s

extreme form of a daily intermittent fasting

you need to know

protocol, as the OMAD diet’s fasting period is

about the risks of fasting

much longer than with other fasting protocols.

before you decide to try it.

Some evidence suggests that the OMAD diet can

The risks of intermittent fasting are minimal

help with weight loss. A small study found that

but can include headaches, dizziness, stomach

people who followed the diet for eight weeks lost

cramps or nausea, low blood sugar level,

more weight than those with more meals with the

dehydration and low energy levels. However,

same caloric intake.

However, there are also risks associated with this diet, as fasting for such a long period of time can

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what

if fasting is not done correctly, it can lead to more severe health problems such as electrolyte imbalance and malnutrition.

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 39

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When done correctly, intermittent fasting is a safe and effective way to improve your health. However, it’s important to understand the risks before you start. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about fasting or your health.

INTERMITTENT FASTING WHILE BREASTFEEDING When you are fasting, your body goes into a state of ketosis where it starts to burn fat for energy. This process can help you lose weight and improve your overall health.

However, if you are breastfeeding, you must ensure that you are still getting enough calories and nutrients while fasting. Failure to consume enough nutrients may result in adverse side effects such as low energy levels, headaches and dizziness. It is also essential to drink plenty of fluids while fasting to prevent dehydration.

A PARTING REMINDER Consult with your doctor first if you’re thinking

about

trying

intermittent

fasting to ensure it’s right for you.

Then, once you’ve decided to give it a try, be sure to start slowly and gradually increase the fasting intervals.

For example, if you’re new to fasting, you might want to start with a 16/8 fasting protocol and then move on to longer fasting intervals like 18/6 or 20/4.

Remember that intermittent fasting is not for everyone, so don’t let fasting slow you down!

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 41

CRYOTHERAPY EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

WRITTEN BY YUKO TABASA

C

ryotherapy or cryogenic therapy uses extreme cold as a means of treatment for various ailments. Liquid nitrogen and argon gas are just a few examples of some controlled cold mediums that cryotherapy uses to apply on affected areas that call for treatment.In typical cases,

cryotherapy treats skin conditions like dermatitis or warts. Localized applications via ice packs, ice baths, coolant sprays and cryotherapy facials are used to remove blemishes and treat these skin conditions. You can also use cryotherapy to remedy

more severe cases like skin cancer because cryotherapy can remove abnormal cells through minimally invasive procedures such as cryoablation or cryosurgery.

Surgical application of liquid nitrogen into affected areas can assist in the removal of cancerous cells or tumors.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CRYOTHERAPY? Pain Alleviation Cryotherapy (in the form of local applications) can treat pain in targeted areas from migraines, muscle soreness and nerve irritations. For example, applying an ice pack is a cryotherapy form known to every athlete. Whether you might have a sore muscle, a sprain or an injury, the immediate first aid often comes in the form of an ice pack.

It has been observed that cryotherapy can also alleviate migraines. Research shows that putting a cold compress onto the carotid arteries on the neck decreases migraine’s debilitating effects. Additionally, empirical evidence points out that whole body cryotherapy soothes arthritic pains.

Cryotherapy is also used in the treatment of nerve-related pains. Cryotherapy can treat pinched nerves, acute injuries and chronic pains through medically administering small incisions and using a probe to freeze the affected tissue. The process is efficient because freezing temperatures tend to numb nerves and the corresponding pain in the process.

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Treatment of Mood Disorders The use of whole-body cryotherapy may sound unusual in

specific areas, cryosurgery or cryoablation can be used as a direct treatment for prostate, skin and cervical cancers.

treating mood disorders. However, studies have observed

The abnormal cells are frozen and killed off by inserting

that patients suffering from depression and anxiety disorders

a cryoprobe into specific target spots. Some treatments

have improved moods after whole-body cryotherapy sessions.

require multiple sessions of cryotherapy.

The use of cryotherapy to induce a more natural release of hormones such as norepinephrine, adrenaline and endorphins is highly supplemental in treating mood

Treatment of Skin Conditions

disorders. The same studies posit that cryotherapy should be

Cryotherapy can also eliminate benign skin lesions, blemishes

used as a supplemental addition to the psychiatric treatment

and other skin conditions. These common skin problems can

of mood disorders and regular counseling.

be fixed simply through spray or spot freeze techniques.

Cryotherapy and cryosurgery work by freezing and treating

Treatment of Low-Risk Tumors and Growths As mentioned earlier, cryotherapy can be used in the treatment of tumors. It has been found that by targeting

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inflammation in the treatment areas. This process leads to an effective reduction in inflammation and immediate treatment of those skin-related problems.

POTENTIAL RISKS OF CRYOTHERAPY

A PARTING REMINDER

A few significant symptoms to watch out for are

Cryotherapy has improved the quality of life for

extended numbness or redness in the treated area.

many individuals, ranging from professional athletes

While typical during therapy, these sensations

to those suffering from chronic pain. And while

should not exceed 24 hours.

there is enough medical and empirical data to back

Physicians and those experienced with cryogenic therapy treatments know precisely how long one should be exposed to freezing temperatures used in the therapy. As a rule of thumb, cryotherapy sessions should not exceed four minutes in any specific area.

the effectiveness of cryotherapy, one form of therapy may not always work out for everyone. Before undergoing any cryotherapy, make sure you consult with your physician so they may recommend the best kind of treatment for you.

Top Doctor Magazine / Special Issue / 45

WRITTEN BY LUKE ARGUE

R

ed light is precisely what it sounds like: red-colored

the skin. This light is then absorbed into the skin, where

light typically emitted by LEDs. It was first developed by

mitochondria absorb that light and turn it into energy. In

scientists to help promote the growth of plants in space,

particular, red light helps to stimulate your mitochondria to

then later studied for its medical applications to humans.

make more energy without exposing your skin to high degrees

Researchers found that red light could help increase the cells’

of heat or damaging UV rays. Some experts believe that by

energy to provide numerous benefits for the body’s healing

doing so, red light therapy can help cells repair themselves

process. Red light therapy comes in many forms, including

and improve healing in skin and muscle tissue.

red light beds in salons and more formal clinical treatment methods in medical offices.

How Red Light Therapy Works Red light therapy works by shining red light directly onto

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Is Red Light Therapy the Same As Infrared?

What about infrared light? Is it the same as red light? Not exactly. Red light is near-infrared, so it is close to infrared light but technically not identical. Infrared is a form of light

that emits heat but is not visible, whereas red light also emits heat but is visible.

Red Light vs. Blue Light for Eyes Neither type of light is particularly good for your eyes. Luckily, both forms of light generally come

The Difference Between Red and Blue Light We’ve seen a bit about red light, but let’s also look at what separates it from another form of light you may have heard of: blue light. Now, this isn’t the kind of blue light you may be worried about being emitted by your phone and computer screen; it refers to the type

with the same types of guidance. For blue light, for example, you should protect your eyes by wearing goggles wherever you go through treatment. The same is true for red light therapy, which may not be as dangerous as some forms of laser therapy but still requires eye protection to ensure you don’t harm yourself.

of light sometimes used in therapy.

In short, the most significant difference between

Benefits of Red Light Therapy

the two light therapy forms is simply the light’s

Since we’ve examined the mechanics of red light

wavelength, indicated by their color. However, the

therapy, let’s look at its main benefits and uses.

small wavelength difference can significantly impact the light’s therapeutic usage.

Does Red Light or Blue Light Have More Energy?

The primary difference between red and blue light

Red Light Therapy for Stretch Marks One of red light therapy’s primary usages is for stretch marks. You’ll often see this at salons in the form of red light therapy beds which use red light to reduce stretch marks and wrinkles.

is the respective wavelength of the light. This difference affects the energy of each type of light — blue light has shorter wavelengths than red light,

Red Light Therapy for Pain

which causes it to emit at a higher frequency. This

Red light therapy is also able to alleviate pain. The

higher frequency, in turn, leads to more energy.

types of pain red light therapy can help with are very diverse, such as:

Red Light vs. Blue Light Therapy

Dental;

But how do the usages of these two lights differ

Osteoarthritis;

for therapeutic purposes? Due to the different wavelengths or energies, each has unique therapeutic benefits. For example, red light therapy enhances

Inflammation of muscle fibers (tendonitis); Back, neck and wound pain.

your skin cells to make your skin firmer and healthier.

Blue light, on the other hand, can penetrate your pores to help purify your skin. Unlike red light, which targets your skin at the cellular level, blue light targets and destroys the bacteria in your skin.

You can equate red and blue light to fertilizers and pesticides. Red light, like fertilizer, helps your skin grow better. Blue light, like pesticides, kills the harmful agents which make your skin less healthy.

Red Light Therapy for Eczema, Acne and Psoriasis Red light therapy also reduces skin conditions that inflame or irritate skin cells, such as psoriasis, eczema and acne, by stimulating the skin cells to be more energized and healthier. This, in turn, causes the skin cells to heal and grow quicker, reducing the damage caused by inflammation and irritation.

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Is Red Light or Blue Light Better for Acne?

However, while red light can help with acne, it is worth remembering that red light mainly functions to nourish cells, not to remove impurities. Instead, blue light therapy, which specializes in purifying the skin, is more commonly used to treat acne.

Can Red Light Therapy Help You Lose Weight?

Unfortunately, while red light therapy has many well-documented uses and benefits, weight loss is not one of them. Red light has not yet been shown to improve weight loss. So, while it’s an excellent tool for cosmetic improvement, its application is primarily focused on the skin.

Red Light Therapy Usage Tips But how do people get these benefits from red light therapy, and how should I use it to maximize its effect?

Here are some common examples of technologies that use red light therapy and some tips regarding the usage of red light therapy:

Red Light Therapy Pod A red light therapy pod is a large bed-like structure in which you are exposed to red light. Because the light touches every part of your body, your whole skin will benefit from the red light therapy benefits in a shorter time.

Red Light Therapy vs. Infrared Sauna These two pieces of technology are similar but accomplish different goals. Infrared saunas are designed to help you sweat and lose weight, while red light therapy aims to energize your skin to make it healthier. Infrared saunas also emit large amounts of heat, opposite to red light therapy, which avoids causing patients to sweat.

How Much Red Light Therapy Is Too Much?

Red light therapy shouldn’t be something you jump into very quickly at the beginning. Instead, let your body get used to the treatment before adding it to your routine. To begin, you should aim for 3 to 5 times a week for about 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Then, as you get more used to it, you can go for closer to 20 minutes. Avoid red light therapy sessions longer than 20 minutes, as they can be dangerous for your skin.

Can Red Light Therapy Hurt Your Eyes?

Red light therapy can be harmful to your eyes. If your eyes are exposed directly or too much, there is a potential for damage. Thus, it’s advisable to wear eye protection while undergoing treatment.

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Red Light Therapy While Pregnant Red light therapy is completely safe during pregnancy. Indeed, one of the most significant benefits of red light therapy is its safety. Being pregnant does not increase the risk factor for red light therapy, nor does it affect the baby’s health. So, if you’re pregnant and interested in red light therapy, go for it!

A Parting Reminder Red light therapy is an excellent tool for energizing and revitalizing your skin while being very safe. Unlike other types of therapy, red light lacks damaging heat or rays, which can be counterproductive. Thus, it may be the future of skincare, both clinical and in the salon. So, the next time you find yourself trying to enhance your skin, maybe give red light therapy a try!

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