ISSUE #5: Fall 2009    

Changing With the Season
Colourful leaves and cooler temperatures are a sign that fall is right around the corner. With the change in season, there is no better time to make changes to your health!

Get back to the basics! Including a comprehensive multi-vitamin, omega3 fish oil, calcium, magnesium and an antioxidant supplement will go a long way in improving overall health and wellness.

Clean house. Consider doing a supervised detoxification program with your Naturopathic doctor to regulate metabolism, increase energy and improve digestion.

“Man Up”. September 20th- 26th marks Prostate Health Awareness week. Trace
minerals such as zinc and selenium and the powerful antioxidant lycopene are important nutrients that help reduce the risk of prostate cancer. To maintain good prostate health, men should have annual prostate examinations after the age of 40.

Flu Shot Alternatives
Not everyone feels comfortable with getting the flu shot. To keep your immune system on the defensive, consider the following supplements instead of vaccination.

Oregano Oil Well known for its antimicrobial properties, oregano oil can be used to ward off harmful microbes and to scavenge free radicals. The effective dosage is 2-drops taken under the tongue, three times per day. Taking a probiotic can increase its effectiveness.

Anti-Viral Herbs Astragalus and Echinachea are natural flu fighters that can be taken during flu season and all year round. Deep Immune (by St. Francis) is a flu-fighting powerhouse and is a must-have in every medicine cabinet.

Breast Health Basics

Fifteen women die from breast cancer every day in Canada. Early diagnosis is essential to acquiring fast and appropriate treatment, but it does not prevent breast cancer. Protect your breasts by following these important breast health tips.

1. Eliminate your exposure to synthetic estrogens (HRT and birth control) and xenohormones (in plastics, cosmetics and pesticides).
2. Improve your liver function. Milk thistle enhances detoxification from the liver, where our hormones are processed and packaged.
3. Protect your breasts from free radical damage. Green tea extract is shown to be protective against estrogen-dominant breast cancers.
4. Take the “breast cancer prevention nutrient”. Indole-3-carbinol helps to breakdown cancer-causing estrogens to nontoxic forms.
5. Get tested. Breast thermography is used extensively as a first-line screening procedure to monitor breast health.

Natural Sweets for Healthy School Treats

Fall is a Great Time for Kid’s Nutrition in Canada!

Apples are in season and can be eaten in infinite ways. Tree-ripened peaches are still available in September, as are blueberries, grapes, plums and pears. Kids love the sweet and fresh taste of fruit but how you present snacks can make a huge difference. Consider making fruit kabobs with yogurt dipping sauce or baked apples with cinnamon and organic maple syrup.

Seeds are another nourishing and delicious snack. Sunflower seeds are best eaten raw or lightly toasted, and un-hulled sesame seeds are an excellent source of calcium. Homemade snack bars made with dried fruits, nuts and seeds are a healthy alternative to sugar-rich chocolate and protein bars. Other snacks that aren’t loaded with processed sugar or salt include natural popcorn, nut butters with rice crackers and home-made Tuscan kale chips. To make popcorn more interesting try topping it with spices like cumin and chili powder for a spicy Cajun snack. When packing your child’s lunch on the first day of school consider foods that impact their behaviour, academic achievement and physical fitness.

Powerhouse Proteins. Essential for immune system function, muscle rebuilding and focus. Make a protein rich breakfast - a fruit smoothie with added protein powder, oatmeal with nuts or seeds, yogurt, or whole grain toast with unsweetened nut butter are great options.

Brain Boost. Omega-3 DHA improves concentration and focus in the classroom. Supplement with a high quality, purified fish oil if your child isn’t eating several servings of fish per week.

Almighty Iron. Studies show that iron deficiency is related to reduced classroom performance. To get your child (4-9 yrs old) the recommended 10 mg daily, consider vegetarian sources of iron including pumpkin seeds, blackstrap molasses, dried fruit, and legumes.

Fall Nutrition Seminars

• 8-week Nutrition Makeover – Join our nutritionists every Wed (12:00-1:00 pm) and Thur (5:30-6:30 pm) as they attempt to demystify nutrition and healthy living! A fabulous service provided FREE to our patients!
• Early Detection of Breast Cancer – No radiation, painless breast screening clinics on October 23rd and 24th.
• Natural Flu Vaccine Options – Learn about safe, natural options to the flu vaccination in a complimentary 15 minute session with one of our naturopathic doctors.
• Tuesday Talks – The DN team is proud to offer in house information sessions every Tuesday at 12 noon.
  

The contents of this Newsletter is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.