Cortisol Myths
As a naturopathic doctor, I often hear cortisol talked about like a comic book villain, always wreaking havoc and stealing our health. But cortisol is far more complex than that. It’s a vital hormone that helps us survive and adapt to challenges. The real issue lies not in cortisol itself, but in the common misconceptions that surround […]
Relaxation Technique – “Deep Inhale and Sigh”
We all need tools to help us relax and get centred sometimes. I’ve practiced a technique called “Deep Inhale and Sign” for many years. I’ve taught it to many of my patients and they report that it helps them find calm their nerves during the day and helps them to sleep better at night. For […]
Natural Relief from Seasonal Allergies
It is that time of the year. Flowers are blooming, trees are pollinating, and folks with seasonal allergies are starting to feel the effects. As of 2017, just less than a third of all Canadians have an allergy of some kind (pollen, food, medicines), with 20-25% of Canadians having seasonal allergies. Most commonly, seasonal allergies […]
5 Key Supplements for High Stress
5 Key Natural Medicines to Help our Bodies Handle Stress Temporary moments of stress are a normal part of life. In fact, our bodies are well equipped as humans to respond appropriately to stressors around us. It is when stressors are excessive or prolonged over time that we can start to feel the adverse impacts […]
Smoothies vs Juicing
What is a smoothie? A smoothie is a drink mixed of frozen or fresh fruit and/or vegetables blended to a desired consistency. Anything else can be added to a smoothie to change the flavor or incorporate nutrient-dense foods in a fun and delicious way. What is a juice? Essentially a juice is a concentrated version […]
Long COVID and the Brain
Most people who get COVID, especially if they are vaccinated, will recover without residual symptoms. But for some people, COVID infection can result in long-term health issues. So-called “long COVID” sufferers can experience many symptoms including crushing fatigue, dizziness upon standing up or standing too long, exercise intolerance, anxiety, headaches, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, […]
Energy for Peak Performance
Many of us feel an extra boost of energy in the summer. We spend more time outside, soaking up the sun and getting fresh air. Many folks play more sports, go camping or boating, and BBQ in the backyard. We often have more leisure time to explore the things we love doing. All of this […]
Why am I so tired? Thyroid Issue May be the Cause
Every week people arrive at my clinic wondering if their thyroid is okay. They’ve often had their conventional doctor check their thyroid, and are told that everything is fine. However, they aren’t convinced. They feel tired, cold, achy, and gain weight easily. They have headaches, depression or constipation, all symptoms that may reflect low thyroid […]
Mitochondrial Function Key to Health
Have you ever wondered why the body ages or why you seem to have less energy as you age? It turns out the answer lies deep within the cells in a tiny organelle called the mitochondria. They are the energy producers of the body. They turn our food into the fundamental fuel that drives cellular […]
Eight Important Lab Tests You Should Know About
Many of us go to the doctor and just get the basic blood work they recommend. We may or may not hear back from the doctor regarding the results. I recommend that patients take a more active role in their health by learning about blood tests and getting copies of their results. (Locally, Lifelabs offers […]