Category: Blog

The 5 Love Languages

Gary Chapman, a relationship counsellor, wrote a book called The 5 Love Languages. Here, he breaks down the ways that different people communicate with their significant other. These are true for romantic relationships as well as families and friendships. While we all typically speak to each of them during certain times, everyone seems to resonate with one or two especially. What is important to know is what the top languages are that you speak and what the top languages are that your partner speaks. For example, in my relationship, my #1 love language is acts of service and my last love language is physical touch. On the other hand, my husbands #1 love language is physical touch. So we have the opposite love languages. The key is you have to speak the others persons love language. And the problem is we tend to speak our love language to our partners. We have to learn to speak another language. What happened in our marriage is my husband started doing more things for me/acts of service and because of that I felt loved and become more affectionate because of it. It was miraculous for us. And so simple. If you aren’t already discussing this in your relationship, I hope you start to!

Words of Affirmation

Actions don’t always speak louder than words.  If this is your love language, unsolicited comments mean the world to you. Insults can leave you shattered and are not easily forgotten. Verbal compliments or words of appreciation are powerful communicators of love.

Quality Time

For this person, nothing says, “I love you,” like full, undivided attention. I don’t mean sitting on the couch watching television together. What I mean is taking a walk, just the two of you, or going out to eat and looking at each other while talking. A relationship calls for sympathetic listening with a view to understanding the other person’s desires.

Gifts

Don’t mistake this love language for materialism; the receiver of gifts thrives on the love, thoughtfulness, and effort behind the gift. If you speak this language, the perfect gift or gesture shows that you are known, you are cared for, and you are prized about whatever was sacrificed to bring the gift to you. There is also an intangible gift that can speak more loudly than something that can be held in one’s hand. Physical presence in the time of crisis is the most powerful gift you can give. Your body becomes the symbol of your love.

Acts of Service

Can vacuuming the floors really be an expression of love? Absolutely! Anything you do to ease the burden of responsibilities weighing on an “Acts of Service” person will speak volumes. The words he or she most wants to hear: “Let me do that for you.” People who speak this love language seek to please their partner by serving them; to express their loves for them by doing things for them.

Physical Touch

This language isn’t all about the bedroom. Hugs, pats on the back, holding hands, and thoughtful touches on the arm, shoulder, or face – they can all be ways to show excitement, concern, care and love. Kissing, hugging, and sex – all of these are lifelines for the person whom physical touch is the primary love language. With it, they feel secure in their partner’s love. Sitting close to each other as you watch TV requires no additional time, but communicates your love loudly.

What’s your love language? How can you use these to foster compassion and growth in your relationships this Valentine’s Day, and every day? Take the quiz to discover your love language – it could save your relationship!

Support your Menstrual Cycle with Seeds

Support your menstrual cycle with seeds by Dr. Chris Bjorndal

Do you struggle with mood swings prior to your menstrual cycle? Can you cry at a Kleenix commercial during this time? Or are you extra irritable and slightly more prone to anger just before your period? Remember that most hormone conditions, such as, irregular periods, polycystic ovarian syndrome, fertility, amenorrhea, painful periods, menopause, PMS etc, are not “medical conditions”. They are just signs that your body is out of balance hormonally. When it comes to our menstrual cycle, the two most common hormones that come to mind are estrogen and progesterone. Signs of imbalances in these hormones are:

ESTROGEN
DeficiencyHot flashes

Night sweats

Vaginal dryness

Memory lapses/foggy thinking

Incontinence

Tearfulness

Depression

Disturbed sleep

Heart palpitations

Bone loss

 ExcessMood swings/irritability

Fibrocystic and/or tender breasts

Water retention

Foggy thinking

Anxiety

Weight gain (hips)

Bleeding changes

Headaches

Uterine fibroids

Cold body temperature

Fatigue/insomnia
PROGESTERONE
DeficiencyMood swings/irritability

Fibrocystic and/or tender Breasts

Water retention

Foggy thinking

Anxiety

Weight gain (hips)

Bleeding changes

Headaches

Uterine fibroids

Cold body temperature

Fatigue/insomnia

 ExcessDrowsiness

Breast swelling

Nausea

Depression

Foggy thinking

Oily skin

Increased acne

Excess facial hair

When I was first regained my mental health, I was prescribed an essential nutrient protocol to support the tryptophan pathway in my body in order to make the “feel-good” neurotransmitter serotonin. I was suffering with anxiety and depression when I started this protocol and within a few weeks, I felt these lift…. for two weeks out of the month. This indicated that my hormones were also out of balance. I didn’t realize this at the time since I wasn’t a medical professional, but as I explain to my patients, there are three macrosystems that we need support: our neurotransmitters, our hormones and our organs of detoxification. If you find you struggle with mood disturbances in the two weeks prior to your menstrual cycle, this points to a hormone imbalance. If you suffer from depression and anxiety, ALL aspects need to be addressed, not just neurotransmitters.

As Naturopathic Doctors, we follow the advice of Hippocrates who said “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” One of the ways we can use food to balance our hormones is by following a “seed protocol”. Using the seeds, we are supporting estrogen in the follicular phase of our menstrual cycle and progesterone in the luteal phase of our cycle. Here’s how it works:

Seed protocol:

For omega 3 EFA’s to support estrogen: Consume 2 Tbsp each of organic ground flax seeds and pumpkin seeds daily – (for menopausal women or women with irregular cycles, do this between new moon to full moon as it helps promote estrogen formation; for menstruating women, do this on days 1-14 of your menstrual cycle)

For omega 6 EFA’s to support progesterone formation: Consume 2 Tbsp each of organic ground sesame seeds and sunflower seeds in daily – (for menopausal women or women with irregular cycles, do this between full moon to new moon to promote progesterone formation; for menstruating women, do this between Day 15- and the start of your next menstrual cycle).

This cycling helps to balance estrogen and progesterone levels. For time/efficiency sake, I recommend grinding a few cups of each seed and storing it in a ziploc bag/tupperware container in the freezer (as the oils will become rancid). This way you do not have to grind the seeds on a daily basis.

If you are in menopause or have irregular periods, then I use the moon cycle to regulate your hormones. The moon controls the tides of the planet and there is a relationship between this energy of the moon and our menstrual cycle. Also, First Nation cultures refer to the menstrual cycle as the moon cycle. Ideally, we are to ovulate on the Full moon and start our periods on the New Moon. I prescribe “moon bathing” to my patients who have irregular periods. This is where you stand in the energy of the full moon for a few minutes. Most of us who live in the city are disconnected from nature and the natural rhythm of our planet and the seasons. Moon bathing is a way to reconnect to nature. If you would like a copy of the moon cycle, please contact our office.

My husband, Dr. Michael Mason-Wood, makes two types of homemade granola for me using the seeds. I am not sure if he is trying to help me or himself – haha. The good news is the granola is delicious and healthy since it is homemade. The seed protocol is a simple and effective way to support the formation and elimination of hormones in your body. Give it a try!

Ingredients

  • 8 C rolled oats
  • 1 ½ C wheat germ
  • 1 ½ C oat bran (hemp hearts)
  • ½ C sunflower seeds for progesterone phase or 1.5 C pumpkin seeds for estrogen phase
  • ½ C sesame seeds for progesterone phase
  • 1 C finely chopped almonds
  • 1 C finely chopped pecans (chia seeds)
  • 1 C finely chopped walnuts (hazelnuts)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • ½ C brown sugar
  • ¼ C maple syrup
  • ¾ C honey
  • 1 C vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 2 C raisins or sweetened dried cranberries

*we don’t use the flax seeds in the granola as these seeds are best consumed ground

Directions

Prep: 20 m / Cook: 20 m / Ready In: 40 m

Makes: 30 servings (369 calories/serving)

  • Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment or aluminum foil.
  • Combine the oats, wheat germ, oat bran, seeds, almonds, pecans, and walnuts in a large bowl. Stir together the salt, brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, oil, cinnamon, and vanilla in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then pour over the dry ingredients, and stir to coat. Spread the mixture out evenly on the baking sheets.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until crispy and toasted, about 20 minutes. Stir once halfway through. Cool, then stir in the raisins or cranberries before storing in an airtight container.

Sugar, Candida, Biofilms – What?

What are Candida Biofilms?

Have you ever taken an antibiotic for a urinary tract infection, acne, bacterial infection or some other reason? Did you know that just by taking one antibiotic in your lifetime, you can disrupt the balance of your gut flora? There is now research that connects the relationship of our gut flora with our mental health. One of the things that happens when you take an antibiotic, even a “natural” one like oil of oregano, is that it you kill not only the bad bacteria that you are trying to eradicate, but the good bacteria or probiotics as well. What tends to come back first after taking an antibiotic is an organism called Candida, which is commonly referred to as an opportunistic organism. Basically, when the terrain of the body is right, Candida sets up shop in you, the host. This is why it is common to get a yeast or Candida infection after you take an antibiotic. Other common health challenges that can result from taking too many antibiotics are constipation or diarrhea, indigestion, nausea and cramping. To see if Candida is playing a role in your health concerns, please complete the Candida questionnaire.

One of the reasons Candida can be difficult to get rid of is because of they create a biofilm. Biofilms are structural microbial complexes formed naturally by many bacteria and fungi. Treatment of conditions such as UTIs, ear infections, and Candida albicans overgrowth becomes difficult once biofilms have formed and attached to a surface. A biofilm matrix acts to protect the structure of a microorganism. Acting like a shield against invaders – it creates problems for us by increasing the durability and resistance of unwanted fungus. Candida albicans causes one of the most common fungal biofilms, and it is extremely difficult to treat once established. With a longstanding Candida overgrowth, there is plenty of time for biofilms to develop in your gut and they may be very resistant and reproductive complexes.

What is an important factor in growing and reproducing biofilms? Sugar! Biofilms are comprised of 32% glucose – stopping sugar intake can help reduce biofilm creation.

 How can Candida biofilms be treated once formed? Using enzymes to attack the biofilm structure – we can get past the security guard (attached matrix) to allow for degradation. Speaking with a naturopathic doctor about enzyme formulas that targets the cell wall. This helps to remove attached biofilms allowing us to release and break down the harboring yeast and micro-organisms. Detachment and removal of harmful Candida biofilm structure is crucial to maintain gut health and establishing a re-population of healthy gut flora. Therapeutic modalities aimed at destroying Candida biofilm structures hold the greatest promise for improving treatment responses in people with recurring candida overgrowth and other fungus-related disease.

Fermentation vs. Pickling

An introduction to pickling and fermentation.

As a child, I remember exploring my grandparent’s basement “cellar” or cold room that had shelves filled with jars of pickled and fermented produce. And even more, I enjoyed eating those jarred contents! What I didn’t know were the processes behind how those fresh veggies (and fruits) could be kept for such a long time without going bad.

Traditionally, and as my grandparents used to do, fermentation and pickling were used to preserve what had been harvested from the garden and then stored over the winter months when fresh produce wasn’t as available. In today’s society, food is readily available throughout all seasons, not to mention there are far fewer numbers of people who garden and then preserve their remaining harvest. Even if you don’t have a garden, you can still pickle or ferment fresh produce for later consumption.

But first, what is the difference between pickled and fermented foods?

Pickling is a general term that refers to different ways of preserving foods in an acidic medium or liquid, often vinegar. A common example is cucumbers that have been prepared in vinegar, which most people simply refer to as ‘pickles’. Preserving fresh produce in vinegar in this quick pickling method by covering the vegetable (or fruit) in hot vinegar, with the addition of spices and seasonings, eventually changes the original taste and texture of the food. Pickling also includes the use of heat to destroy and inhibit the growth of any microorganisms. This offers the advantage of the food not being perishable, but lacks the benefits of fermented foods, where microorganisms are cultivated and nutrients are maintained.

Fermentation is considered a pickling method, but is more of a curing process and thus has some specific features distinguishing fermentation from the quick pickling method described above. Fermentation involves creation of the acidic medium through lactic acid fermentation by bacteria. Lactobacillus, a species of bacteria normally present on fresh food, including vegetables and fruits, proliferates and flourishes during fermentation. These naturally present, beneficial bacteria produce lactic acid as they eat up and convert sugars and starches in the food. This type of lacto-fermentation uses a salt brine to inhibit harmful microbes while the beneficial bacteria multiply and dominate. The lactic acid produced also lowers the pH thus inhibiting harmful microorganisms from surviving. It is also meant to be an anaerobic process, meaning it provides an environment without oxygen where the lactobacilli bacteria can grow and thrive, while preventing any other microorganisms that require oxygen for their growth from growing and thriving. The fermentation process not only gives fermented foods their unique sour smell and flavour, it also provides health benefits.

What are the health benefits of fermented foods?

  • Enhances the vitamin content of food
  • Improves bioavailability (=usability) of nutrients in the body
  • Improves digestibility of food which helps our digestive process
  • Preserves and can enhance the enzyme content of food
  • Produces and provides probiotics (=beneficial bacteria), which have a variety of health benefits

Some examples of fermented foods include sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, yogurt, miso and kombucha.

How to shop for fermented foods

When looking for fermented foods at the grocery store, make sure to read labels carefully. You will often find truly fermented products in the refrigerated section, and many of these fermented products will be labeled as such—look for labels that include “live cultures”, “source of probiotics” or “fermented”. You may also see the words unpasteurizedor raw on the label and the ingredients list should be simple. For example, in the case of sauerkraut, the label could include cabbage, salt, and other vegetables and seasoning ingredients used for flavour, such as garlic, beets or ginger. You might find “starter culture” on the label as some companies use a starter culture to amplify the number of beneficial bacterial present at the start of the fermentation process. Be sure the product does not contain vinegar and does not say “pasteurized” as the pasteurization process eliminates the beneficial bacterial cultures, thus removing the health benefits of a fermented food.

You can also try the quick pickling method and fermenting foods at home. For a tasty quick pickle recipe, try some spicy dill pickled green beans (from That Clean Life) or make your own delicious non-dairy kefir using coconut milk (from Meghan Telpner) (recipes below).

Spicy Dill Pickled Green Beans

Recipe from That Clean Life: https://blog.thatcleanlife.com/dill-pickled-beans/

Yields 1 jar of pickled beans

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups green beans (washed and trimmed)
  • 1/2 cup fresh dill (chopped)
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp black peppercorns
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp sea salt

Directions

  1. Trim the ends from the green beans and cut them into equal lengths that will fit into a 500 mL mason jar.
  2. Place the dill, garlic, red pepper flakes and peppercorns into the bottom of the jar. Turn the jar on its side and tightly pack the beans in. Set jar aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan combine apple cider vinegar with water and sea salt. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer. Let simmer for 3 minutes.
  4. Pour the vinegar into the jar with the beans. Cover with a lid and let cool. Transfer to the fridge and let sit for at least 24 hours before eating. Flavour will intensify over time. Enjoy!

Coconut Kefir 

Recipe from Meghan Telpner: http://www.meghantelpner.com/blog/coconut-kefir-ice-cream-pops/

Ingredients

  • 1 can (2 cups) full fat coconut milk
  • 1 probiotic capsule (about 1/4 tsp of probiotic powder). Any live kind will do.
  • 1 clean one-litre mason jar

Directions

  1. Stir together the coconut milk and the probiotic. If the cream and water in the tin are very separated, you may want to toss it in the blender or warm over low heat first, then allowing it to cool (to at least room temperature) before whisking in the probiotic.
  2. Transfer to your jar and fasten the lid on loosely.
  3. Let sit at room temperature for 18-24 hours. You can taste periodically with a clean spoon until desired taste is achieved.
  4. Once ready, place your coconut kefir in the fridge. If desired, reserve 1/2 cup of coconut kefir for your next batch in a new mason jar (see below).
  5. Will keep 3-4 days, or freeze for a couple of weeks.

Making Your Second Batch:

  • Mix together your reserved 1/2 cup of coconut kefir with 2 cups (1 can) organic full fat coconut milk. Repeat steps 2-5 above.

 

 

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References

Editors, H. F. (2016, January 21). Pickling Vs. Fermenting-What’s the Difference? Retrieved March 12, 2017, from http://www.hobbyfarms.com/pickling-vs-fermenting-whats-the-difference-4/

Howe, H. (2016, April 12). Fermented Foods ULTIMATE Guide: How to Buy or Make, Ways to Eat & Wonderful Benefits. Retrieved February 19, 2017, from https://www.makesauerkraut.com/fermented-foods-ultimate-guide/

Nourishing Meals. (n.d.). Retrieved February 19, 2017, from http://www.nourishingmeals.com/search?q=fermentation

Publications, I. O. (2015, May 11). Are Pickles Fermented? Pickled Vs. Fermented Foods – Natural Health. Retrieved February 19, 2017, from http://www.motherearthnews.com/real-food/fermenting/are-pickles-fermented-pickled-vs-fermented-foods-zbcz1505

The Crucial Difference Between Pickled and Fermented. (2017, March 02). Retrieved March 12, 2017, from http://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/the-crucial-difference-between-pickled-and-fermented/

What is the Difference Between Pickling and Fermentation? (n.d.). Retrieved February 19, 2017, from http://www.wildfermentation.com/questions/what-is-the-difference-between-pickling-and-fermentation/

What’s the Difference Between Pickling and Fermenting? – Word of Mouth. (2016, April 04). Retrieved February 18, 2017, from http://www.thekitchn.com/whats-the-difference-between-pickling-and-fermenting-229536

Get the dirt with these spring tips!

As the temperatures start to warm up and the snow begins to disappear, and as the hours of daylight extend, that feeling of spring starts to arise. The return of spring often brings a sense of new beginnings, new growth or a fresh start. For many, this also means a time for spring-cleaning: the undertaking of cleaning one’s living space.

Spring cleaning. Did you just cringe? If not, I imagine that you didn’t jump for joy either. Spring cleaning is often not a desired activity, though most can agree that once it’s done, you do feel satisfied.

Here are several tips to help with your spring cleaning.

  1. Simplify
    • Limit or remove some of the pressure in feeling that you need to do it all at once, and take it step by step. Start with one room at a time, or one category at a time (ex. clothes, photos, books, pantry items) or divide up the work over several weekends or throughout the week.
    • Enlist the help of others! If you live with other people, encourage them to help out in some way. Also make it more fun by putting on some music (and maybe even take a few minutes for a dance party!).
    • Do your best to keep up with regular cleaning during the rest of the year so that it is less overwhelming and not just a yearly event.
    • When going through your possessions, it can be helpful to determine what you use on a regular basis and what you don’t, and whether or not those items are serving you or “sparking joy” (as discussed in a helpful resource called The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo). Also keep in mind that there are other categories besides “throw away” when going through your possessions. See if you can reuse or repurpose, recycle or donate items before throwing them in the garbage.

2. Clean up your cleaning products

  • Did you know that our indoor environment is 2-5 times more toxic than our outdoor environment? Even the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that nearly 3% of the global burden of disease is attributed to indoor air pollution. Also, we can spend as much as 90% of our time indoors. There are many possible sources of pollutants found inside the home, including dust (which is a reservoir for chemicals in the home) and even the products we use to clean our homes!
  • Most conventional cleaning products contain chemicals that can affect our health, so before you begin cleaning, start by removing those cleaning products that can increase your overall exposure and body burden of harmful chemicals.
  • What to look for and avoid in your cleaning products:
Chemical: Found in:
Triclosan dish soaps, disinfectants, numerous other household products.Look for triclosan listed as an “active ingredient” in many antibacterial products
Formaldehyde floor polishes, scouring cleansers, disinfectants, liquid cleansers, laundry aids, air fresheners, carpet cleaners(as well as numerous other household items and furniture, personal care products, wrinkle-free clothing)
Quaternary ammonium compounds or “quats” bathroom cleaning products, all-purpose cleaners, fabric softeners, degreasers
Ammonia window cleaners, drain cleaners, toilet cleaners, bathroom cleaners, oven cleaners, car polish, stainless steel cleaners, all-purpose cleaners
2-Butoxyethanol (2-BE, also known as butyl cellosolve) glass cleaners, laundry stain removers, carpet cleaners, automobile cleaners, windshield wiper fluid, degreasers, oven cleaners, rust removers
Parabens various cleaning products (and most cosmetics/personal care products)
Phthalates various fragranced cleaning products, including air fresheners, dish soap, even toilet paper (and most cosmetics/personal care products)
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) dish soap, liquid laundry detergents, cleaning towelettes, toilet bowl cleaners, (also in cosmetics or products that form “suds”)
Fragrance or perfume (catch all terms for masking potentially harmful chemicals) most types of cleaning products
MEA (monoethanolamine), DEA (diethanolamine), TEA (triethanolamine) floor cleaners, car wash products, degreasers, liquid laundry detergents, dish soap, oven cleaners, glass and surface cleaners
Coal tar dyes most types of cleaning products
Phosphates dishwasher detergents, laundry detergents, bathroom cleaners
Nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs) stain removers, all-purpose cleaners, air fresheners, liquid laundry detergents, degreasers, toilet bowl cleaners, car wash products
Silica powder abrasive cleaning powders
Sodium dichloroisocyanurate dihydrate toilet bowl cleaners, surface cleaners, disinfectants, deodorizers
Sodium hydroxide (known as lye and caustic soda) oven cleaners, bathroom cleaners, drain openers, toilet bowl cleaners, disinfectants
Trisodium nitrilotriacetate bathroom cleaners, some laundry detergents (more common in industrial formulations)

For more information on these chemicals (what they are and how they are harmful), check out the David Suzuki Foundation’s article: http://www.davidsuzuki.org/issues/health/science/toxics/the-dirt-on-toxic-chemicals-in-household-cleaning-products/

  • You really don’t need that whole collection of cleaning products meant for cleaning various parts of your home like your windows, bathroom, toilet, floors, kitchen counters, and so forth. You can use a few DIY multi-purpose products to get the job done! See below for a simple Citrus Vinegar Cleaner recipe.
  • For more DIY non-toxic home cleaning recipes, check out Meghan Telpner’s article à http://www.meghantelpner.com/blog/10-non-toxic-home-cleaning-recipes/ and David Suzuki Foundation’s resource à http://www.davidsuzuki.org/publications/downloads/2011/QueenOfGreen-Green-cleaning-recipes.pdf
  • For more information on “greener cleaners” that you can purchase, check out Environmental Working Group’s website: http://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners

3. Don’t forget your internal environment!

    • Spring cleaning need not apply only to the home or external environment. It can also apply to your internal environment, including your thoughts.
    • Reflect upon the various areas of your life—relationships, work, friendships, personal life—and examine any areas that may be weighing you down. Notice your thoughts about those particular areas and what physical response you have to those thoughts (ex. sadness, anxiety, frustration, etc). Our thoughts create feelings or emotions, which then can lead to actions and behaviours. When we can start to interrupt those unhelpful, negative and self-defeating Thought-Feeling-Action cycles with tools like breathing, we can start to begin to challenge those thoughts and re-direct our thoughts to a more neutral place or to thoughts that feel better and thoughts that reflect more positive truths (such as “I did the best I could”, or “I am enough”).
    • The simple act of breathing is cleansing, where oxygen is brought into the lungs during inhalation, and carbon dioxide is released during exhalation. Throughout your day, pause and take a few deep breaths. To help focus on your breathing, inhale to the count of 5, pause, and exhale to the count of 5; repeat.

DIY Citrus Vinegar Cleaner recipe from In Sonnet’s Kitchen

Use this as a cleaner for windows, glass, counters and mopping floors.

Ingredients and Supplies

  • Citrus peels (ex. lemons, oranges, limes)
  • Glass jar
  • White vinegar
  • Spray bottle

Instructions

  1. Cut the peel off of the citrus fruit, and place in the glass jar.
  2. Cover with vinegar and allow to sit, for up to two weeks.
  3. Remove the peels and dilute vinegar 1:1 with water.
  4. Pour into spray bottle.

Note: 1. You can also mix the vinegar/water mixture with a small amount of castile soap (ex. Dr. Bronner’s soap) or baking soda for more cleaning power. 2. In a time pinch? Skip the citrus peels and two week wait time. Just dilute the vinegar 1:1 with water and you’re ready to go!

Resources

10 Non-Toxic Home Cleaning Recipes. (2017, March 28). Retrieved April 05, 2017, from http://www.meghantelpner.com/blog/10-non-toxic-home-cleaning-recipes/

EWG. (n.d.). Time for Cleaning Products to Come Clean on Ingredients. Retrieved April 07, 2017, from http://www.ewg.org/enviroblog/2016/05/time-cleaning-products-come-clean-ingredients

EWG. (n.d.). Wellness Chat: The Indoor Environment. Retrieved April 05, 2017, from http://www.ewg.org/cancer/2016/09/wellness-chat-indoor-environment

Green cleaning recipes. (n.d.). Retrieved April 05, 2017, from http://www.davidsuzuki.org/publications/downloads/2011/QueenOfGreen-Green-cleaning-recipes.pdf

Indoor Air Pollution Worse Than Outdoor. (2017, February 01). Retrieved April 05, 2017, from https://draxe.com/indoor-air-pollution-worse-than-outdoor/

(2015, August 10). DIY Citrus Vinegar Cleaner. Retrieved April 05, 2017, from http://www.insonnetskitchen.com/diy-citrus-vinegar-cleaner/

The dirt on toxic chemicals in household cleaning products. (n.d.). Retrieved April 05, 2017, from http://www.davidsuzuki.org/issues/health/science/toxics/the-dirt-on-toxic-chemicals-in-household-cleaning-products/

 

Are Cell Phones & Cell Towers Safe?

Is society’s current understanding of the health effects of electromagnetic exposure parallel to society’s understanding in the 1970s of the health impacts of cigarette smoking? Decades ago, the tobacco companies created doubt and controversy about the proposed health risks of smoking; however, with more research and the passing of time, there is now evidence of several health risks associated with smoking. The mercury found in dental fillings has a similar history and continues to be analyzed by the medical community. The author encourages you to ponder whether or not electromagnetic exposure is following a similar path.

A position paper by The American Academy of Environmental Medicine calls into question the safety of cell phones and cell phone towers (known also as mobile phone base stations – MPBS), putting them in the same category as smoking and mercury.1 What is different about exposure to electromagnetic energy is that it has become fully integrated into our environment. If and when it is confirmed there is a health risk associated with electromagnetic exposure, will it be too late and what will be our options? As we become increasingly aware of the health risks posed by electromagnetic radiation, will we find solutions?

The result of the increase in public awareness and research is a growing concern about the safety of living near MPBSs. Several short term studies, ranging from several months to three years have concluded that there is no consistent evidence demonstrating associated risks of living near MPBSs, yet these results have led to an increased concern and the need for further investigation.2,3,10,14,15 For example, a study conducted by Shahbazi-Gahrouei et al. indicated that those individuals living a distance of greater than three hundred meters from an MPBS showed a statistically significant decrease in symptoms, such as nausea, headache, dizziness, irritability, discomfort, nervousness, depression, sleep disturbance, memory loss and lowering of libido compared to individuals that lived closer to MPBS.21 Some argue that distance is not a reliable measure because the power output of each MPBS can be different, leading to different distances at which they may impact health. Analyzing the health impact is further complicated by the fact that exposure at ground-level distance from different base stations may differ by four orders of magnitude because of base station parameters and environmental scattering,6 and there is a growing consensus that children are more susceptible to exposure, hence the emphasis on the placement of MPBSs away from daycares and schools.28

As naturopathic doctors (NDs) our focus is preventative health care and it is in our nature to look at the potential for risk and harm. The author proposes that NDs consider the long-term impacts to health, especially seeing as the current evidence suggesting the lack of long term health effects is primarily based on short-term studies. Limited evidence of harm does not mean that we should turn a blind eye and not proceed with further studies, particularly to our children’s health and the health of future generations.

Consider the growth of the mobile phone industry; in 1987, there were only 100,000 cell phones in Canada and by the end of 2010 there were more than 24 million. The increasing number of cell phones require more MPBSs to accommodate the volume of cell signals. A rise can be seen in MPBSs as well; in 2008 there were about 8,000 MPBSs29 and currently there are over 820,000 MPBSs in Canada.25 Mobile phone transmitter power-levels range from 0.6 to 2.0W, while MPBS transmitter power levels range from a few watts to >100W.6

MPBSs exist as either stand-alone structures (monopoles) or they can be on top of existing structures, such as churches, water tanks and other building types. Property owners have the option to rent out space on top of an existing structure to mobile-phone service providers. The height for coverage ranges from ten to one hundred meters. In many cases, the transmitter may go unnoticed. (see the link at the end of this article to find out if there is a MPBSs in your neighbourhood). As mobile-phones use rises, there is greater demand for coverage (signal availability and strength) and adequate capacity (number of channels)17. Companies may also co-locate on a structure,17 with two or three companies sharing a tower for their antennas.

Twenty-four studies since 1973 have identified adverse effects associated with exposure to non-thermal microwave electromagnetic radiation (EMR) or hypersensitivity (EMH).23 These effects include both neuropsychiatric symptoms16 and other generalized symptoms. Symptoms that are believed to be associated with EMR exposure range from various cancers, headaches, fatigue, decreased learning, ADD, autism spectrum disorder, decreased memory, hormone imbalances,20 infertility, dementia, autoimmune disease, diabetes and heart problems.4,5,8,11,16,23 Other data shows that children, women26 and the elderly27 are more susceptible to physical symptoms such as of tiredness, headaches, sleep disturbances, irritability, depression, loss of memory, dizziness, libido decrease, nausea and visual perturbations. Multiple chemical sensitivity has been associated with EMH.9

While the mechanism of action of low level electromagnetic radiation exposure is still to be determined and more studies are needed, there are a number of proposed mechanisms of action :

Increase in Intracellular Calcium: Martin Pall, Professor Emeritus of Biochemistry and Basic Medical Sciences at Washington State University, studies the influence on voltage across a cells plasma membrane. His research shows that the activation of the voltage-gate calcium channels7 leads to an increase in intracellular calcium,7,8 causing the release of neurotransmitters and hormones.23 Pall’s research shows that the nervous system is sensitive to MPBS proximity. Research shows that the Increased intracellular calcium also stimulates osteoblasts and bone growth.7 This rise of intracellular calcium was found to be almost instantaneous, occurring in less than five seconds in human fibroblast cultures.12 Additional studies are needed to further explore the impact on voltage-gated calcium channels.13 Prescribing calcium channel blockers to patients has actually been proposed as a way of managing this response.7

Rise in Nitric Oxide levels: The correlation between electromagnetic exposure and increased nitric oxide levels have been known for more than 20 years and has been shown in over 20 studies. A rise in nitric oxide leads to increased oxidative stress.7 This mechanism of action has recently been re-examined by Dr. Martin Pall.

Rise in Cortisol and Salivary u-amylase: Studies have shown that exposure leads to a rise in cortisol and salivary u-amylase in humans,19 which would account for symptoms associated with electromagnetic exposure including irritability, a ‘tired but wired’ or ‘burnt out’ feeling’, weight gain at the waist, loss of muscle mass, bone loss, high blood pressure, insulin resistance, low sex drive, impaired memory and loss of scalp hair.

In 1973, a Russian study on mice, rats and rabbits found that many of the physiological changes affecting the nervous system, heart and testis were reversible if the exposure was stopped within a brief period of time; however, with repeated or longer exposure they found that these changes were not reversible.24 This is a very alarming finding that has not been further tested, proved or disproved.

One concern with conducting studies regarding the health impact of MPBSs is the “nocebo” effect. That is, when subjects have an awareness of the potential negative impact of increased exposure to MPBSs, it may influence the development of symptoms, such as fatigue, headaches and insomnia.22 Another challenge is the increasingly common universal exposure to MPBS, creating difficulty finding controls that have no exposures.23

On a positive note, although manufacturers and developers of EMR and MPBS equipment refuse to acknowledge any harm in these technologies, they are in the developmental stages of creating Li-Fi (a form of wireless internet). This new technology will decrease EMR exposure because it uses light to transmit Internet signals. It could replace Wi-Fi and Bluetooth18 as has the advantages of having less interference issues and higher security, as signals do not go through walls as Wi-Fi does. The goal is to decrease the body’s overall exposure to EMR as certain exposures we cannot realistically avoid. This is a step in the right direction, but there is still the question about the impact of the current technology on human health.

How can we limit our exposure to electromagnetic frequencies? We cannot choose the air we breathe; however, we can choose where we live, whether to use a microwave oven, for example, or whether to hold a mobile device close to our head or body.

Mobile phone technology and towers are here to stay. As a naturopathic doctor, I encourage my colleagues to consider electromagnetic exposure when determining the root cause of a patient’s concerns. If the health impacts of mobile device technology follow the same path a smoking, lead exposure and mercury dental fillings, we are going to be in trouble. The author, therefore, encourages readers to be aware of what is happening in their community and cautious about the placement of MPBSs in residential areas, school and daycare centres.

Resources:

Enter your address and locate how many cell towers are in your area: www.etyu.org/steven_nikkel/cancellsites.html.

Dr. Magda Havas, an associate professor of environmental and resource studies at Ontario, Canada’s Trent University; www.magdahavas.com.

 

References:

1 Elliott P, Toledano M, Bennett J, Beale L, de Hoogh K, Best N, Briggs D, Mobile phone base stations and early childhood cancers: case-control study, BMJ 2010;340:c3077.

2 Mortazavi S, Subjective symptoms related to GSM radiation form mobile phone base stations: a cross-sectional study, J Biomed Phys Eng 2014;4(1)39-40.

3 Coggon D, Health risks from mobile phone base stations, Occup Environ Med 2006;63:298-299.

4 Hutter H, Moshammer H, Wallner P, et al., Subjective symptoms, sleeping problems, and cognitive performance in subjects living near mobile phone base stations, Occup Environ Med 2006;63:307-13.

5 Dolan M, Rowley J, The precautionary principle in the context of mobile phone and base station radiofrequency exposures, Environmental Health Perspectives 2009;117:9:1329-1332.

6 Pall M, Electromagnetic fields act via activation of voltage-gated calcium channels in biology and medicine, J Cell Molec Med 2013;17:8:958-965.

7 Pall M, Electromagnetic field exposures act via activation of L-type voltage-gated calcium channels. Mechanism of action and diverse impacts on health – Lecture notes, American Academy of Environmental Medicine Conference, 2013 October, Phoenix, Arizona:55-67.

8 Patel K, EMF hypersensitivity & biotoxin-mycotoxin – Lecture notes, American Academy of Environmental Medicine Conference, 2013 October, Phoenix, Arizona:69-88.

9 Nayyeri V, Hashemi S, Borna M, Jalilian H, Soleimani M, Assessment of RF radiation levels in the vicinity of 60 GSM mobile phone base stations in Iran, Radiat Prot Dosimetry 2013;155(2):241-244.

10 http://healthycanadians.gc.ca/drugs-products-medicaments-produits/consumer-consommation/home-maison/cell-eng.php.

11 Gomez-Perretta C, Navarro E, Segura J, Portoles M, Subjective symptoms related to GSM radiation from mobile phone base stations: a cross-sectional study, BMJ Open 2013;3:e003836.

12 Pilla A, Electromagnetic fields instantaneously modulate nitric oxide signalling in challenged biological systems, Biophys Res Commun 2012;426:330-333.

13 Xu J, Wang W, Clark C, et al. Signal transduction in electrically stimulated articular chondrocytes involves translocation of extracellular calcium through voltage-gated channels, Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2009;17:397-405.

14 Moulder J, Foster K, Erdreich L, McNamee J, Mobile phones, mobile phone base stations and cancer: a review, Int J Radiat Biol, 2005;81(3):189-203.

15 Roosli M, Frei P, Mohler E, Hug K, Systematic review on the health effects of exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields from mobile phone base stations, Bulletin of the World Health Organization 2010;88:887-896.

16 Abdel-Rassoul G, El-Fateh O, Salem M, Michael A, Farahat F, El-Batanouny M, et al., Neurobehavioral effects among inhabitants around mobile phone base stations, Neurotoxicolgy 2007;28:434-440.

17 IEEE Committee on Man and Radiation, Safety issues associated with base stations used for personal wireless communications, COMAR Technical Information Statement, September 2000.

18 http://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/light-bulb-li-fi-wireless-internet/

19 Augner C, Hacker G, Oberfeld G, et al., Effects of exposure to GSM mobile phone base station signals on salivary cortisol, alpha-amylase, and immunoglobulin A, Biomed Environ Sci 2010;23:199-207.

20 Eskander E, Estefan S, Abd-Rabou A, How does long term exposure to base stations and mobile phones affect human hormone profiles?, Clin Biochem 2012;45:157-161.

21 Shahbazi-Gahrouei D, Karbalae M, Moradi H, et al., Health effects of living near mobile phone base transceiver station (BTS) antennae: a report from Isfahan, Iran, Electromagn Biol Med 2014;33(3):206-210.

22 Danker-Hopfe H, Dorn H, Bornkessel C, et al., Do mobile phone base stations affect sleep or residents? Results from an experimental double-blind sham-controlled field study, Am J Hum Biol 2010;5:613-618.

23 Pall M, Microwave frequency electromagnetic fields (EMFs) produce widespread neuropsychiatric effects including depression, Journal of Chem Neuroanatomy 2015;http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jchemneu.2015.08.001.

24 Tolgskaya M, Gordon Z, Pathological effects of radio waves, Translated from Russian by B Haigh 1973; Consultants Bureau, New York/London, 146 pages.

25 http://opensignal.com/coverage-maps/Canada/.

26 Santini R, Santini P, Danze J, Le Ruz P, Seigne M, Study of the health of people living in the vicinity of mobile phone base stations, Pathol Biol 2002;50:369-373.

27 Santini R, Santini P, Danze J, Le Ruz P, Seigne M, Symptoms experienced by people in vicinity of base stations: II. Incidences of age, duration of exposure, location of subjects in relation to the antennas and other electromagnetic factors, Pathol Biol 2003;51:412-415.

28 Li C, Liu C, Chang Y, Chou L, Ko M, A population-based case-control study of radiofrequency exposure in relation to childhood neoplasm, Sci Total Environ 2012;435-436:472-478.

29 City of Hamilton. Health Risks associated with cell phone towers – 2008; http://www2.hamilton.ca/NR/rdonlyres/77F4E067-CD0C-483C-80C5-58AB3693CB7A/0/Jul09BOH08013HealthRiskAssocwithCellPhoneTowers.pdf

30 https://www.aaemonline.org/emf_rf_position.php

The Mystery of Mania

When I studied Naturopathic Medicine at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto, I was asked to be on a steering committee regarding the direction of the program for future students. In the discussion, the subject of mental health and psychology was discussed and one of the students raised a question about bipolar disorder. My response was “Which type of bipolar disorder are you referring too?” And her response was “How many types are there?” Therein lied the problem for me – here was a student that I highly regarded – and she didn’t know that there are two types of bipolar disorder. At that time, I was stuck in the stigma and shame of my diagnosis, but now  – over a decade later – I am “coming out” about the truth. So, for those of you that don’t know, there are two types of bipolar disorder. Simply put, in type 1, you experience delusional psychotic mania and in type 2, you don’t have psychosis, but are in a “hypo-manic” state. What follows below is an excerpt from my upcoming book “Beyond the Label: Achieving Mental Wellness with Naturopathic Medicine”. I am posting this blog in honour of Mental Health Awareness Week.

BOOK EXCERPT: After feeling so much better when I started Dr. Hoffer’s protocol, I began to wonder if I was “cured.” Maybe the doctors had been wrong and I didn’t have bipolar disorder type 1. After all, I had never had a psychotic episode naturally. I had always been on some form of psychotropic medication when it happened. When I had questioned my psychiatrist about this, he told me that a “normal” person would never experience mania on medication; only those with the genetic tendency for mania would. Since I am adopted, I didn’t have a family history to verify the validity of that statement. This left a suspicion in the back of my mind, or maybe it was a refusal to accept the label. I continued to take my medication, along with the supplements, for fear of getting sick again. It had now been a decade since I had been manic, and I began to question whether it would ever happen again.

Well, it did. And as the next episodes unfolded, what never sat well with me was that I never became manic on my own—I was always under the influence of prescribed pharmaceuticals. While the allure of mania has been described as addictive, for me, it is a state that I have feared and have tried desperately to keep hidden. The irony with that is mania is impossible to hide. It begs to be seen. And while it can be fun to be in a hypomanic state leading up to a full blown psychotic event, it usually comes with an inevitable down swing into depression as the pendulum swings the other way. Mania is the yang to the yin of depression.

Back to school—and another manic episode

The first two months after leaving HSBC were good. Initially, I was excited about my studies. Slowly, though, my insecurities got the best of me. I started to feel overwhelmed about the length of time it was going to take to become an ND. Would I even be accepted into the program? Would I pass once I got there? I began exploring other career options that would guarantee me a paycheque sooner rather than later, such as teaching or becoming an RCMP officer or city police officer. I thought maybe I could use my business skills in a transferable position in the health field. Or maybe my boyfriend would propose and I could get married and become a mom.

Partly because of the struggles my boyfriend and I were having in our relationship, we attended a personal growth course called “The Art of Happiness.” Leading up to the course, I had been sleeping well, but after the first night, I only got a few hours of sleep. During the course, there was some intense emotional work, and I found that I was very triggered by the energy of the other group members.

I escalated into mania on the third day of the course and ended up jumping into the Fraser River. In hindsight, the course organizer should have called an ambulance for me, but instead, she sent me in a cab to St. Paul’s Hospital, where I was left—in a state of psychosis—to check myself into the hospital. This was not going very well for me, as I was losing my mind and I am sure I looked like a street person in the baggy clothes I had been given to wear after changing out of my wet clothes.

I ended up calling my friend, Lisa, who contacted our mutual friend, Janet, who was a resident in emergency medicine at the hospital. We had initially connected when we were exploring the idea of creating an organic baby formula. Lisa had already played an instrumental role in supporting me with my health challenges, and now I believe that Janet also was in my life for the same reason. Ultimately, we all helped each other move our lives in alignment with our spiritual paths as we were all searching for courage to make big changes in our lives but didn’t know how.

Here is an account of the experience, written from her perspective:

The phone rang as I was washing dishes on a cloudy Sunday afternoon. “Janet, Chris just called me from emergency. She said to call you and then hung up. Something’s wrong.” I was at the hospital in minutes, where I found my friend at triage crying. She clung to me, and as she spoke, things became clear. I recognized the pressured speech, the loud voice, and the hyperactive behaviour. As an emergency resident, I had encountered it many times. However, this time it was my friend, and the experience changed forever the way that I view psychiatric patients and the medical system as a whole.

Before I continue, let me say that this is not a criticism of the dedicated staff at this hospital and other emergency rooms across the country. We all do the best we can in the crunch that is acute medicine. However, I hope that my experience may help people step outside of “the box,” if just for a moment. The box is our comfort zone. Inside it we exist in a state of clinical detachment, using characteristic language and attitudes with respect to patients; both are defence mechanisms that enable us to do this challenging work. For example, I was shocked to hear my friend referred to as “the bipolar,” forgetting my own frequent similar references to patients. I honestly can’t remember referring to a patient by their name in the emergency department. Unfortunately, I will probably step back into that familiar box in a matter of days or hours, but wanted to record this experience at a time when I was able to view things from an eye-opening perspective.

Before I arrived, Chris had been told there were no psychiatric beds available, and that there would be none available for days. She possessed enough insight to know that she needed inpatient treatment, but was rather dramatic about it because of her condition. As well, before arriving at the hospital, she had jumped into a river and lost some of her clothes. She came across as an angry street person, perhaps even strung out on coke. Not the vivacious, inspiring young professional who until recently had been a high-level manager in an international corporation.

 I don’t mean to imply that her “status” should entitle her to more respect or better care. However, I’m sure many in the waiting room would have been surprised by the information. Alone, afraid, and paranoid, there was no way she could check herself into triage without some help, and she wasn’t getting it. Luckily I arrived just as she was considering going back out onto the street. The last time she was this sick, she made a serious suicide attempt and ended up in the ICU.

As soon as I had calmed her down, I started to grasp at strings. I knew the on-duty emergency physician, who made some calls and informed me that there were no psych beds in the city, and that I should try to get her admitted. Meanwhile, Chris had been insisting loudly that she needed her psychiatrist’s number, saying that he wanted her to call him at home. Of course, we’d never dream of giving a physician’s home number to any patient, much less a psychotic screaming one. I was skeptical myself, but used my hospital badge to get into the nursing station, where I asked the unit clerk for the psychiatrist’s number. It wasn’t listed, so I picked up a phone, identified myself as a resident to the switchboard, and got it.

I then called the psychiatrist, who confirmed that he had given her his number and said that he would contact the on-call psychiatrist, making her an urgent priority for admission. When I told the triage clerk, he repeated that there were no beds and that she would likely not be admitted, as there were eight people in line ahead of her. He was quite unfriendly, even though he knew that I worked there. He was probably justifiably annoyed that in the midst of a backed emergency department, I was using my connections to push a friend through. However, I persisted, and got her checked in.

When I went to visit her the next day, she was ensconced in her corner of the acute psychiatric unit, surrounded by flowers and friends. All, including Chris, were thankful that she was alive and safe. In addition, I was feeling some disconcerting emotions. Seeing a friend in a psychotic state had been profound. Despite her “crazy” condition, she had still been very much herself. Beneath the bizarre behaviour and delusions, it was actually quite easy to find the person I knew. With a chill of awareness, I had to acknowledge that I had regarded psychotic patients as being somehow not of themselves. I hadn’t considered that the healthy person might be preserved within, aware at some level of what was happening. I don’t mean to be putting forward a theory on psychosis or mania; I am only trying to express what I discovered about myself. I’m sad to say that I had not been seeing or treating these patients as people.

 Furthermore, I had discovered what it was like to be on the outside, desperate to get care for a loved one and running into one brick wall after another. “Sorry, you’ll have to wait” and “there are no beds,” echo in hospitals across our country every day. I’m used to saying these words, not hearing them. I chose to ignore these words because of my position, which I’m sure many would criticize me for. When you’re desperate you’ll try anything. My heart goes out to those who don’t have anything to try.

 Thus ends my story, with a happy ending for my friend and a number of lessons for me. Hopefully I won’t forget them; that was part of my motivation for putting this to paper. If you even gain a fraction of the awareness that I achieved from writing this, it will make this effort worthwhile to me.

The above article was submitted for publication in the CMA journal, but was rejected. I am extremely grateful for how my friend was able to help me, that she was home to answer the phone and the risks she took to get me safely admitted.

This was my third manic episode while on prescription medications. I began to wonder what the point was of taking a mood stabilizing medication if it couldn’t prevent mania. My psychiatrist explained that there isn’t a medication strong enough that you can take on a daily basis to override mania and still function in some capacity. Trying to prevent mania is analogous to trying to stop a volcano from erupting. While the supplement regime had been effective at stabilizing my mood from a depression and anxiety perspective, I questioned the need for pharmaceutical medication that wasn’t doing its job in that area, nor with preventing mania. I began to search for answers on how to prevent mania from ever happening again.

Stay tuned to read the rest!!! If you would like to be notified when the book is ready please contact us!

What does “OO” mean?

The Trouble with Froot Loops

The packaging of a Froot Loops box is brightly coloured and the cartoon animals are all smiling. The marketing is designed for kids to want it, and it’s effective. Since its start in 1963, Kellogg’s Froot Loops has become one of the oldest, and most popular cereal products in North America. But what exactly are we feeding our children when they dive into a bowl of Kellogg’s Froot Loops?

The answer is given away in the title if we convert the letter O to mean the number 0: translation: There is no fruit only and very little nutritional value. Instead, we are feeding our precious children inflammation, mood swings, hyperactivity, obesity, and poor learning. Froot Loops has an ingredient cocktail that is full of things we know to be problematic for us to eat, and this has huge impact on the growing minds and bodies of our children. Let’s take a look at exactly what’s in a bowl of Froot Loops.

Ingredient #1: Sugar: Maybe you’ve heard that breakfast cereals can contain a large portion of a child’s daily allowable sugar intake, and that it should be “part of a balanced breakfast”. But the fact that sugar is the #1 ingredient in this cereal means it has no place as part of any breakfast- it should be a dessert! In one cup of Froot Loops there is 12g of refined sugar. Take note that the average bowl would hold about 1.5 servings, so if your kids eat an average-size bowl of this cereal, they are getting a whopping 18g of refined sugar in the morning. That’s about the amount of sugar in half a can of Coke (19.5g), or 5 ½ Oreo cookies (19g). Sugar intake has direct linkage with obesity rates in children and adults, increasing rates of hyperactivity and ADHD and compromises immunity. If your child is sick all the time, you might want to consider a healthier start to their day like steel cut oats and a hard boiled egg. For more information on sugar, please read “14 Simple tips to quit sugar cravings” and the “Sugar Roller Coaster“.

Ingredient: #2 Whole-grain corn flour, and #3 Wheat flour: While it might sound good that at least the corn is “whole-grain” (ie it contains every part of the seed kernel, not just the starchy tasty part like in white wheat flour), these two ingredients will, without a doubt, be genetically modified (GMO). Although the scientific evidence has yet to show clear long-term harmful effects of eating GMO crops, this is an ingredient the American Academy of Environmental Medicine is urging consumers to avoid, citing animal studies that show organ damage, gastrointestinal and immune system disorders, accelerated aging, and infertility. Not only that, but GMOs are incredibly problematic for the environment and the lives of farmers all over the world.

Ingredient #7 Hydrogenated Coconut and Vegetable Oil: Anywhere there is oil that is hydrogenated, there are trans fats. Hydrogenation is a process that makes fats more stable at room temperature, but unfortunately it also makes them much more dangerous for our bodies. Artificial trans fats like those in hydrogenated oils have been clearly linked with a higher incidence of heart disease and inflammation, and may also increase risk for type II diabetes.

Ingredient #9 “Colour”: When something isn’t explicitly called natural colour, it means it is artificial. It is interesting to note that the laws in the UK and Australia state that the colours used in Froot Loops must all be natural. In North America, however, the colours have been artificial since 1963, although Kellogg has a goal to eliminate artificial colours by 2018 in the United States. What does that mean for your kids? Artificial colours have been shown to increase ADHD symptoms in children, as well as triggering other immune reactivity.

Ingredient #10 “BHT”: BHT stands for butylated hydroxyanisole, and it is a preservative to avoid. The FDA has approved it as being safe for human consumption, though the National Toxicology Program has concluded that BHA “is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen”. The jury may be out, but it is advised by many research boards to limit consumption to very low levels.

After unpacking the ingredients of Froot Loops like this, we can see how eating a bowl of sugary cereal every morning can affect our bodies and those of our children in the long run. Although we are urged to make Froot Loops “part of a balanced breakfast”, it really should not be considered a breakfast food at all. Instead, we recommend avoiding the boxed processed sugary cereals and aim for unprocessed, simple breakfasts with wholesome ingredients. It doesn’t have to be a whole lot more work either. For example, Nature’s Path Heritage O’s cereal has 3g sugar/3/4 c and Cheerios have 1g sugar/cup. You can top these with fresh organic fruit, organic yogurt or a little almond butter to get good fats and probiotics along with their breakfast. Pairing this with along with fibre from fruit and protein from a boiled egg you have a nutritionally rounded breakfast that will keep your kids fuller, happier and healthier. And, this might just make their teacher happier at school if your child is better able to focus during the day!

To give your children the best gift in life – a healthy start – make an appointment with a Naturopathic Doctor today!

 

References

Surviving Suicide: Chris Cornell

This past week another famous person committed suicide – Chris Cornell. Chris Cornell’s wife issued a statementwhich blamed anxiety medicine for his suicide:

“Vicky Cornell, the wife of Soundgarden singer Chris Cornell, speculated whether his suicide was the result of taking too much of his anxiety medication.

An attorney for the Cornell family, Kirk Pasich, reiterated Vicky’s belief that an extra dosage of Ativan, an anxiety medication often employed by recovering addicts, altered Chris Cornell’s mental faculties after the Detroit show. Pasich added that the Cornell family is “disturbed at inferences that Chris knowingly and intentionally took his life.”

This is so sad – my heart goes out to his wife and family. It’s so unfortunate that these drugs are so commonly prescribed. Too many people don’t know about the risks. Here is a good article on benzodiazepines and suicide http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/869869. Benzodiazepines and alcohol can also be deadly and too many people don’t know about this danger.

I’ve read a few articles about it and have been reflecting on the thoughts written by a few bloggers. This came on a long weekend when I was working on a webinar presentation to over 275 Functional Medicine practitioners (MDs, DCs, NDs, DOs, acupuncturists, nurses, pharmacists, dietitians and nutritionists.) I was a guest panellist teaching: Bipolar Basics: 10 steps to treating bipolar disorder.

At the end of the day, mental health issues (addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating issues, etc) are not simply genetic. These are multifactorial conditions that are often co-morbid. While I think it is wonderful to have “Mental Health Awareness” weeks and campaigns like Bell’s “Let’s talk”, I feel that we have to move from awareness and talking about it, do taking action and doing something about it. When I was first diagnosed with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder type 1 in 1987 (after many years of being secretive and in denial about my eating disorder), there was no conversation going on about mental illness in the public domain. None. There was only silence and stigma. While I am delighted to see the emergence of awareness in the last decade, we have to move into the next phase. Mental illness and addiction issues are, in my opinion, a silent epidemic that is a public health crisis. With rising rates of drug (fentanyl) overdoses and suicide rates on the rise, what action can we all take to help?

Is there a phone call to a co-worker you can make? Is there a helping hand to a cousin that you can offer? Is there a donation you can make? Is there a member of parliament you can write who will be open to allowing naturopathic doctors to be a part of the mental health discussion? What I have chosen to do is dedicate my career to helping those with mental health issues. I see many patients for free because they simply can’t afford to pay for my services and while I would like to see everyone for free, I am unable to do so.

Here are some of the action steps I have taken to extend my reach beyond my clinical practice in order to help those suffering with mental dis-ease: Since losing Matt (my friends cousin) to suicide in 1998 and witnessing the crisis that suicide leaves in its wake, I have chosen to be more public about my mental health struggles. Back in 1998, I couldn’t even reach my hand across the dinner table to Matt and offer support. At that time, I was stuck in the stigma and shame of my mental illness. What I didn’t get a chance to share with him is that I get it. I understand. I’ve been there. Really, truly been there as four years prior, I had tried to commit suicide. I wanted him to know that this too shall pass. It feels dark and deep because it is… in this moment. But you can heal. The sun will come out from behind the clouds. The loss of Matt opened my eyes to the impact suicide has on one’s loved ones. While this memory became faint for me in subsequent suicide attempts, I now have a broader spiritual understanding as to why I am still here with you on the planet which I share in my upcoming books: Beyond the Label: Achieving Mental Wellness with Naturopathic Medicine and The Essential Diet; Eating for Mental Well-being.

I have developed a 10 week course  and retreat to train other physicians in the framework I use to effectively and safely guide patients to mental freedom. This course incorporates not only a naturopathic principles and philosophy, but is a culmination of over 30 years of counselling work and training that I have done both personally and professionally. In addition to my ND training, I have training in 5 types of counselling: Compassion Focused Therapy, Gestalt psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Integrative reprogramming technique and Mindfulness based therapy. Proceeds from the books and courses go towards a mental health scholarship at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine

My goal is to save as many souls from suicide. It has been said that by the year 2030, one person will commit suicide every second, globally – which is a startingly statistic that I want to change. Most patients with mental illness are at war with themselves and our role is to stop the battle and guide patients to inner peace. I remind patients that you are with you the longest, so it is vital that you get the relationship right with yourself first before seeking love from another. It is often difficult to have a healthy loving relationship with someone else when we don’t love and accept ourselves first. We need to do more than simply support the physical level with pharmaceuticals or supplements/herbs – we need to address the mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of lives. We need to start teaching this in school. By looking at all aspects of our lives, we will find the answers – the missing pieces of the puzzle – that will provide solutions to suicide. Deaths like this just strengthen my resolve to get the mental health nutrition message out (as well as the importance of the mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of health) so people don’t feel they need these drugs and know there are other options (ie naturopathic medicine)! When Robin Williams committed suicide, I wrote this poem:

Open. See. Feel. Believe. Change.

Open your mind
Open your eyes
Open your heart
To the belief that change can happen

See in your mind
See in your eyes
See in your heart
The change happening

Feel through your mind
Feel through your eyes
Feel through your heart
A change in belief

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Abnormal Pap test results…now what!?

If you’ve received abnormal Pap test results and are wondering what you can do to prevent progression of cervical dysplasia and in some cases to reverse dysplasia, know that there are natural options for managing cervical health that you can begin now.

Why do a Pap test?

Originally developed in the 1940s by Georgios Papanikolaou, the Pap smear or Pap test is a procedure used to screen for cervical cancer. The Pap test involves collecting cells from the cervix (which is the opening of the uterus at the top of the vagina) and examining the cells microscopically for the presence of abnormal cells (ie precancerous or cancerous cells). If the test result is negative for abnormal cells, the regular screening interval is recommended. If the test result is positive (ie abnormal or atypical cells were discovered), there may be further tests, treatment or follow up required depending on the type of abnormality found. One such further test, called a colposcopy, uses a magnifying instrument to examine the tissues of the cervix, vagina and vulva more closely. Often a sample of cervical tissue is taken at that time for diagnosing cervical abnormalities after an abnormal Pap test. The HPV (human papilloma virus) test may sometimes be used along with the Pap test. HPV testing looks for HPV DNA in cells collected from the cervix and can alert to the presence of high-risk HPV types associated with causing precancerous changes in the cervix.

There are over 150 known types of HPV – approximately 75% of these are cutaneous, causing warts on the skin. The other 25% of HPV types are considered mucosal and can affect the mouth, genital and anal areas, preferring the moist surface layers that line these parts of the body. These types may be transmitted through direct contact or sexual intercourse. These HPV types are further divided into low-risk and high-risk types. Low-risk HPVs do not cause cancer, but can cause skin warts around or on the genitals and anus. High-risk HPVs can cause cancer. There are approximately 12 high-risk HPV types identified, with HPV types 16 and 18 thought to be responsible for nearly 70% of cervical cancer cases. Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are attributed to infection with high-risk types of HPV. Although HPV infection is a factor in abnormal cervical cell development that can eventually lead to cervical cancer, most high-risk HPV infections occur without any symptoms and typically resolve within 1 to 2 years. Therefore, most women infected with HPV will not develop cervical cancer. Persistent infections with high-risk HPV types can give rise to cell changes that may progress to cancer without proper screening and treatment. Cell changes in the cervix occur very slowly, it can take more than 10 years from the time of an initial HPV infection until cell changes result in cancer.

Most recent cervical cancer screening guidelines in Alberta (May 2016) suggest for screening to begin three years after first sexual activity or at age 25, whichever is later. Subsequent screening is recommended every three years from initiation or from the time of the last normal Pap test result. These are general guidelines for women not displaying any symptoms. There are additional guidelines for when screening can be discontinued and for when observation is to be increased as well as screening in other circumstances.

What are the treatment options?

The conventional approach to cervical health is to screen and respond according to abnormal results with treatments aimed at targeting local cervical tissue abnormality. The methods most commonly used to treat precancerous changes in the cervix include:

  • Cryosurgery: freezing to destroy affected tissue
  • Surgical conization: removal of a cone-shaped piece of tissue using a scalpel, laser or both
  • Laser vaporization conization: destroying affected cervical tissue using a laser
  • Loop electrosurgical excision procedure or LEEP: removal of cervical tissue using a loop of wire through which electric current passes, so the wire loop acts like a scalpel

LEEP is the most common current treatment of moderate to severe cervical dysplasia (abnormal cells). Women are also more likely to convert to HPV-negative status within one to two years following the LEEP, which is sooner than women who do not receive any treatment. Though relatively safe and effective for eliminating cervical dysplasia and preventing progression of cervical cancer, there can be some concerns associated with the potential effects of LEEP on future fertility and pregnancy outcomes. The LEEP can reduce cervical mucus and occasionally can cause narrowing of the opening to the cervix. Large retrospective studies have shown this treatment to be associated with an increased risk for premature rupture of membranes and pre-term delivery as well as for low birth weight babies. There appears to be a dose dependent effect, whereby the larger the area of excision and proportion of the cervix removed, the larger and more consequential the effect may be from the treatment. There have also been several studies indicating the plausible risk of miscarriage in women with a shorter time interval from having a LEEP to becoming pregnant.

Naturopathic solutions for cervical dysplasia

There are naturopathic treatment options for women desiring an alternative to LEEP or other excisional treatments. And even if a LEEP is the best option for you, there are naturopathic treatment options to support healing following a LEEP.

Naturopathic medicine involves a holistic perspective which addresses then health of the entire individual, not just the cervix. After going through a woman’s health history, reviewing test results, we discuss risk factors that may contribute to the development and progression of cervical dysplasia and address those that are changeable, including diet and lifestyle. Treatment options often include supporting the whole body, with particular nutrients and herbs, as well as local or topical treatment for cervical dysplasia. Depending upon the grading of the cervical cell abnormality, local treatment of the cervix could include particular vaginal suppositories or escharotic treatment. Escharotic treatment uses the application of herbs to the cervix that are caustic, causing sloughing of the tissues and production of an eschar (scab), with the intention to eliminate abnormal growth and allow healthy cell growth to occur. We have had much success returning cervical cell health to normal using this protocol.

To determine if a natural treatment protocol is suitable for you, it is important to consult with a naturopathic doctor familiar with cervical dysplasia to assist in making an appropriate decision for you.

To find out more and to discuss your options for managing cervical health, call 587-521-3595 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Candace Haarsma.

References

Canada, G. O. (2015, February 17). Trends in the incidence and mortality of female reproductive system cancers. Retrieved May 26, 2017, from http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/82-624-x/2015001/article/14095-eng.htm

Ciavattini, A., Clemente, N., Delli, G., Gentili, C., Di, J., Barbadoro, P., . . . Liverani, C. A. (2015, April). Loop electrosurgical excision procedure and risk of miscarriage. Retrieved May 27, 2017, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25624192

Clinical Practice Guidelines. (n.d.). Retrieved May 17, 2017, from http://www.topalbertadoctors.org/cpgs/919105

Conner, S. N., Cahill, A. G., Tuuli, M. G., Stamilio, D. M., Odibo, A. O., Roehl, K. A., & Macones, G. A. (2013, December). Interval From Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure to Pregnancy and Pregnancy Outcomes. Retrieved May 27, 2017, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3908542/

HPV and Cancer. (n.d.). Retrieved May 24, 2017, from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/infectious-agents/hpv-fact-sheet

Government of Canada, Public Health Agency of Canada. (2009, March 02). Cervical Cancer Facts and Figures. Retrieved May 26, 2017, from http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/cd-mc/cancer/cervical_cancer_figures-cancer_du_col_uterus-eng.php

HPV and Cervical Cancer. (n.d.). Retrieved May 28, 2017, from http://www.cwhn.ca/en/yourhealth/faqs/HPVandCervicalCancer

HPV and HPV Testing. (n.d.). Retrieved May 28, 2017, from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/infectious-agents/hpv/hpv-and-hpv-testing.html

Hudson, T. (2008). Womens encyclopedia of natural medicine: alternative therapies and integrative medicine for total health and wellness. New York: McGraw-Hill.

Karjane, N. W. (2016, February 29). Pap Smear. Retrieved May 24, 2017, from http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1947979-overview

Kovacs, P. (2013, October 08). Treatment for HPV Lesions May Affect Fertility. Retrieved May 24, 2017, from http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/812110_2

Kyrgiou, M., Mitra, A., Arbyn, M., Stasinou, S. M., Martin-Hirsch, P., Bennett, P., & Paraskevaidis, E. (2014, October 28). Fertility and early pregnancy outcomes after treatment for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia: systematic review and meta-analysis. Retrieved May 28, 2017, from http://www.bmj.com/content/349/bmj.g6192

Screening for cervical cancer – Canadian Cancer Society. (n.d.). Retrieved May 24, 2017, from http://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/cervical/screening/?region=on

Wright, T. C., Massad, L. S., Dunton, C. J., Spitzer, M., Wilkinson, E. J., & Solomon, D. (2007). 2006 consensus guidelines for the management of women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia or adenocarcinoma in situ. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 197(4), 340-345. doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2007.07.050