Menopausal Weight Gain

In my practice as a naturopathic physician, I often see women in their 40s and 50s who are doing everything right—eating well, staying active—yet still struggling with unwanted weight gain and declining energy. What they’re experiencing isn’t a failure of willpower. It’s a reflection of the profound hormonal changes that accompany perimenopause and menopause, changes that affect metabolism, fat storage, sleep, mood, and appetite regulation.

Weight gain during this life stage is common, but it isn’t inevitable. The key is understanding the “why.” As estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone begin their often erratic fluctuations and eventual decline, the body undergoes significant shifts in its fundamental processes. These hormonal shifts make the body less efficient at managing blood sugar, preserving lean muscle mass, and regulating cortisol, our primary stress hormone. Specifically, declining estrogen levels can lead to increased insulin resistance, making it harder for cells to absorb glucose, contributing to higher blood sugar and increased fat storage, particularly around the abdomen.

Furthermore, the decrease in these hormones, especially testosterone and estrogen, directly impacts muscle protein synthesis and maintenance, leading to an accelerated loss of lean muscle mass – a process known as sarcopenia. This reduction in metabolically active tissue further slows metabolism. Concurrently, the fluctuating and declining levels of estrogen and progesterone can disrupt the delicate balance of the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, impairing the body’s ability to effectively manage stress and often leading to higher or more erratic cortisol levels. This hormonal interplay often leads to increased abdominal fat, a propensity for insulin resistance, and a frustrating sense of metabolic slowdown, even for those with disciplined lifestyles.

Unfortunately, conventional weight loss advice like eating less and exercising more can make things worse. Restrictive diets and excessive cardio elevate cortisol levels, which further disrupts metabolism and encourages the body to store fat. What’s needed is not more discipline, but a more intelligent and personalized approach.

That’s where naturopathic medicine shines. When I work with women navigating midlife weight changes, the process begins with comprehensive lab testing. We assess thyroid function, insulin sensitivity, cortisol patterns, and sometimes a detailed sex hormone panel to understand where the imbalances lie. These results guide every step of the treatment plan.

From there, we craft an individualized strategy that may include:

  • Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), tailored to each woman’s unique needs and stage of life to restore hormonal balance and support energy, sleep, and metabolism.
  • Targeted natural medicines to help balance hormones and to support insulin sensitivity, adrenal function, and liver detoxification.
  • Nutritional guidance that supports metabolism without deprivation, with an emphasis on protein intake, blood sugar balance, and anti-inflammatory foods.
  • Movement recommendations that respect the body’s changing physiology, focusing on strength, stability, and nervous system regulation.
  • Support for stress and sleep, both of which directly influence hormone balance and weight.

This is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s a partnership grounded in physiology, clinical data, and the lived experience of each woman. When we address the underlying hormonal and metabolic shifts of perimenopause and menopause, the results go far beyond weight loss. Women report better mood, clearer thinking, deeper sleep, and a renewed sense of vitality.

If you’re approaching or moving through midlife and feel frustrated by changes in your body, know that you can reclaim your health with strategies that are rooted in science and personalized to suit you.

Dr. Deidre Macdonald is a naturopathic physician who has practiced in Courtenay since 1997. (250) 897-0235 or www.getwellhere.com

Dr. Deidre Macdonald

Naturopathic Physician

250 897-0235

www.getwellhere.com

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 it. Here are five of the most persistent myths I hear in my practice.

The first myth: cortisol is simply bad. In truth, it’s essential for life, regulating blood sugar, pressure, inflammation, and energy. Problems arise when cortisol is chronically high or low, often due to long-term stress or health conditions. It’s often blamed for abdominal weight gain because cortisol receptors are dense in visceral fat, promoting midsection storage. This metabolically active fat can contribute to further imbalances. The issue isn’t cortisol, but what throws it out of balance, often a sign your body is constantly alarmed or struggling for equilibrium.

Another common myth: high cortisol always means you’re just too stressed. While emotional stress elevates cortisol, it’s not the only cause. Sleep deprivation, blood sugar instability, chronic infections, overtraining, and inflammation can all increase levels. I’ve seen patients doing everything right, eating well, exercising, meditating, still have elevated cortisol due to physical, not necessarily emotional, stress.

The third myth: low cortisol only occurs in serious diseases like Addison’s. While Addison’s is a rare autoimmune condition where adrenal glands stop producing cortisol, many experience functional low cortisol. This often develops after long periods of stress, when the body downregulates production to protect itself. People frequently wake up tired, feel flat in the afternoon, and get a second wind at night. Their quality of life suffers. Adaptogens like Rhodiola and Ginseng are helpful, regulating the stress response. Licorice root also supports cortisol by extending its availability. Naturopathic strategies also focus on optimizing sleep, gentle movement, and nutrient-dense dietary support to restore adrenal balance.

 

Another misconception: cortisol can be tested accurately at any time of day. In reality, cortisol follows a daily rhythm, highest in the morning and lowest at night. A single random blood test isn’t useful. Comprehensive testing, using saliva or urine samples taken at several points, reveals healthy, blunted, or reversed patterns, often aligning with how people feel and guiding treatment.

 

Lastly, there’s the belief that relaxing more is all you need to fix cortisol issues. While calming practices like meditation and deep breathing are valuable, they’re only part of the picture. Cortisol regulation also depends on sleep quality, stable blood sugar, digestive health, and inflammation control. Natural medicines can also jump start the healing process. A comprehensive approach works best for this complex hormone.

Cortisol is not the enemy. It’s a survival tool our bodies rely on, especially in times of change. By understanding how it truly works, we can better support our energy, focus, mood, and long-term health.

Dr. Deidre Macdonald is a naturopathic physician who has practiced in Courtenay since 1997. Contact at 250 897-0235 or via www.getwellhere.com

Ten Ways to Boost Your Immune System Naturally

Ever wonder why some people rarely catch a cold while others seem to get every bug in the air? While genetics may play a role, daily habits and lifestyle choices often make a bigger impact. Here are ten effective, natural ways to keep your immune system strong.

  1. Keep Your Vitamin D Levels Up

Vitamin D, known as the “sunshine vitamin,” is crucial for immune function, but in the Comox Valley, winter sun exposure is minimal. To meet the recommended 2000 IU a day, consider a supplement. Research shows that keeping your vitamin D levels up can help protect against colds and flu.

  1. Focus on Whole, Colourful Foods   

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help the immune system function at its best. Leafy greens like kale, along with berries, carrots, and bell peppers, are loaded with nutrients to fend off illness. The variety of colours on your plate reflects a diversity of immune-boosting compounds.

  1. Make Movement Part of Your Routine   

Regular physical activity enhances immune health, yet the winter months make it tempting to skip workouts. Even short daily walks, indoor yoga, or a few bodyweight exercises can help keep the lymphatic system moving, which is essential for immune function. Try to find activities you enjoy so that exercise becomes a consistent part of your week.

  1. Prioritize Good Sleep   

Sleep is a powerful, natural immune booster. When we sleep, the body produces and releases proteins called cytokines that aid the immune response. Aim for 7–8 hours nightly and establish a calming bedtime routine. Relaxation apps, like Insight Timer, can guide you through breathing exercises or meditations that help you wind down.

  1. Manage Stress Proactively   

Chronic stress raises cortisol, which can inhibit the immune system. Taking small, daily steps to manage stress—whether through deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching—can help. Herbal adaptogens like ashwagandha may also support resilience to stress over time.

  1. Soak in Natural Light   

Sunlight exposure, even on cloudy days, can lift mood and strengthen immune health. Time outdoors, especially near water or in the snow, provides a natural light boost that supports well-being.

  1. Consider Herbal Support   

Certain herbs have shown benefits in bolstering the immune system. Echinacea may help reduce the duration of colds, and reishi mushrooms contain compounds that can enhance immune response. Oil of Oregano can also offer antiviral support when used at the first sign of symptoms.

  1. Wash Hands Often   

Frequent handwashing with soap and water is a simple yet highly effective way to reduce exposure to viruses and bacteria. It may also help to avoid handshakes and keep hands away from the face, especially in winter.

  1. Support Your Lungs by Quitting Smoking   

If you’re a smoker, know that smoking has a suppressive effect on immune function. Quitting can make a substantial difference, and options like our Laser Quit Smoking program have helped many people to ease the transition.

  1. Get Personalized Support   

If you frequently catch colds or have lingering health issues, a naturopathic consultation could uncover root causes. We offer an in-depth, personalized approach to improving immune health, including tailored nutrition and lifestyle guidance, natural medicines and sometimes pharmaceutical medicines.

These practices don’t require drastic changes but can lead to significant improvements in immune resilience. A well-rounded approach to immune health can help you stay well through winter and beyond, building a strong foundation for lifelong vitality.

Ride the Wave: Mastering Urge Surfing

Navigating the journey to better health requires strategies to handle the inevitable cravings and temptations that arise. As a naturopathic physician, I’ve witnessed many individuals set off on the path to improved well-being, only to be sidetracked by the siren call of these urges. Whether it’s the lure of a late-night snack, the temptation to skip a workout, or the irresistible draw of sugary treats, sticking to health goals can feel like riding a rollercoaster. However, I want to introduce you to an effective technique that can help you stay on track: urge surfing.

Urge surfing is about learning to ride out your cravings like a pro surfer riding the waves. It’s a mindfulness technique that helps you observe and manage your urges without giving in to them. It empowers us to pause, acknowledge the urge, and consciously choose how to respond, rather than succumbing to impulsive eating behaviors. Here’s how you can master the art of urge surfing and stay committed to your health goals.

The first step to urge surfing is to become aware of the urge. When you feel a craving creeping in, take a moment to acknowledge it. Say to yourself, “I feel the urge to eat that chocolate bar” or “I feel like skipping my workout today.” Naming the urge helps bring it into your conscious awareness, making it easier to manage.

Next, take a few moments to observe the urge. What does it feel like? Is it a tightness in your chest, a rumbling in your stomach, or a restless feeling in your body? Observe the urge without judgment or resistance. Imagine you are a scientist studying the sensation. This detachment helps reduce the urge’s power over you.

Now comes the part – riding the wave. Urges, like waves, rise and fall. They start small, build up, peak, and then eventually subside. When you feel an urge, imagine you are a surfer riding a wave. Breathe deeply and stay with the sensation as it intensifies. Remind yourself that it will pass. The key is not to fight the urge or give in to it, but to ride it out.

While riding the wave, it can be helpful to refocus your attention on something else. Engage in a different activity that can distract you from the urge. Go for a walk, read a book, practice a hobby, or chat with a friend. Shifting your focus helps the urge to fade away more quickly.

Once the urge has passed, take a moment to reflect on your success. Celebrate your victory, no matter how small it may seem. Each time you successfully ride out an urge, you strengthen your ability to resist future temptations. This builds confidence and reinforces your commitment to your health goals.

Like any skill, urge surfing takes practice. The more you do it, the better you’ll become. Remember, it’s normal to have cravings and feel tempted. What matters is how you respond to them. With compassionate self-reflection, you can learn from the times when you slip up. By practicing the art of urge surfing, you can better stay on track with your health goals and enjoy the journey towards a healthier, happier you. Next time you feel an urge coming on, grab your mental surfboard and ride that wave. Your future self will thank you. Stay healthy and happy surfing.

 

Dr. Deidre Macdonald, ND is a naturopathic physician practicing in downtown Courtenay. 250 897-0235 or www.getwellhere.com

The Power of Mindset: How Your Mind Influences Your Health Choices

Let’s face it, what we know we should do for our health and what we actually do are often quite different. When it comes to making healthy choices, we often focus on external factors like finding the right diet plans, exercise routines, or medical advice. While these factors are undoubtedly important, one key determinant of success that often goes overlooked is the power of our mindset. The way we think and perceive ourselves and the world around us can have a profound impact on our health choices. As a naturopathic physician, I see the fascinating connection between mindset and health. I’ve learned that it is imperative that the doctor-patient relationship include good coaching on how to cultivate a positive, empowered mindset towards our choices, our bodies and our health.

The choices we make regarding our health are deeply rooted in our mindset. Our beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions about ourselves and our bodies shape our daily habits. For example, if we have a negative mindset and believe that we are incapable of making lasting changes, we are more likely to give in to unhealthy temptations, procrastinate, or give up on our goals. However, with effective coaching towards a more positive mindset, we can develop a proactive approach to our health, set achievable goals, and cultivate healthy habits that support our well-being.

One fundamental step towards creating a more intentional lifestyle is mindfulness. Learning to be more aware of your inner self and practicing being fully present in the moment can positively impact health choices. For instance, when we cultivate mindfulness, we become more attuned to our body’s signals of hunger, fullness, and overall well-being. This awareness enables us to make informed choices about what, when, and how much we eat, resulting in a healthier relationship with food and a better understanding of our body’s needs.

The mind and body are deeply interconnected, and research increasingly shows that our thoughts and emotions can influence our physical health. Negative emotions like stress, anxiety, and pessimism can weaken the immune system, increase the risk of chronic diseases, and slow down the body’s healing process. On the other hand, a positive mindset, characterized by optimism, self-belief, and resilience, can enhance our overall well-being and even influence recovery from illnesses.

Naturopathic medicine is all about empowering people to become informed about their health and coaching them on how to live a lifestyle conducive to good health, including using natural medicines when needed or for health optimization. The old medical model was to wait until you got sick, then expect the doctor to provide a magic pill. My patients come when they are sick and when they are well. They are eager to have an in depth health investigation and create a program to move towards greater health. Fundamental to success, is adopting a positive mindset conducive to making informed decisions, overcoming challenges, and cultivating sustainable life habits.

Developing self-awareness, practicing mindfulness, and fostering self-compassion are essential steps in harnessing the power of mindset to achieve optimal well-being. As a naturopathic doctor, I am just as likely to coach a patient on these important practices as I am to prescribe an herb, vitamin or prescription drug. Remember, your mindset can be a catalyst for positive change, leading you on a path towards a healthier and happier life. 

Aging Gracefully: Embracing Change & Wellness

The concept of aging gracefully encompasses a dynamic journey marked by change and a commitment to wellness.  In the realm of naturopathic medicine, this philosophy resonates deeply, offering elders a holistic approach to embrace the evolving chapters of life while nurturing their well-being. 

 

As a naturopathic doctor, I hold the privilege of guiding people of all ages through change.  Much like the diverse range of dietary preferences, the approach to aging gracefully through naturopathic practices emphasizes individual uniqueness. We acknowledge the inevitability of change while promoting strategies that support optimal health and vitality.

 

Embracing change becomes a cornerstone of aging gracefully. Just as seasons transition, so do our bodies and lifestyles. We can all engage in mindfulness practices that foster acceptance of the changes that naturally occur with age. This mental shift can significantly impact emotional well-being and overall outlook.  Mindfulness teaches us to observe the inevitable nature of change.  The practice of mindfulness can help us to embrace change.

 

Wellness, in naturopathic terms, is a harmonious integration of physical, mental, and emotional dimensions.  Elders can champion their wellness journey by staying physically active. Engaging in activities like yoga, tai chi, or daily walks promotes flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular health.  Mental well-being is equally vital.  Practices such as meditation, journaling, and engaging in creative hobbies foster cognitive agility and emotional resilience.  Engaging in social activities, spending time with loved ones, and nurturing meaningful relationships contribute to mental and emotional well-being.

 

Graceful aging advocates for a balanced, nutritious diet as a cornerstone of health.  We can all prioritize whole foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, harnessing the power of nutrition to support their bodies’ changing needs.  Processed foods, while convenient, lack nutrition.  Hydration, often overlooked, is also paramount for overall health.  Integrating herbal teas, infused water, and water-rich foods can effectively maintain hydration levels.  Furthermore, including omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like walnuts, flax seeds, and fatty fish, can promote brain health and cognitive function.  For a deeper dive on nutrition, longevity and aging, an excellent book is The Longevity Diet by Valter Longo. 

 

Mindful eating is another key principle.  Savoring meals slowly enhances digestion and allows us to listen to our bodies’ signals of fullness, preventing overeating.  Deep belly breathing before meals can help us to promote stomach acid secretions which naturally decline as we age. 

 

Herbal medicines can complement the journey of aging gracefully; adaptogens like ashwagandha and anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric.  Prudent use of herbal medicines involves ensuring they are the right ones for you, as they can interact with medications.  Seek professional help, like a licensed naturopathic doctor, beforehand.

 

Elders can truly embrace graceful aging, fostering vitality, purpose, and well-being in every chapter of life using healthful strategies.  For an individualized approach to healthy aging, contact Dr. Shawn for a complimentary “meet the doctor” visit to determine if naturopathic medicine is right for you.

 

Dr. Shawn Peters, ND is a naturopathic doctor practicing in downtown Courtenay.

Book in a Complimentary 15-minute, no obligation appointment with Dr. Shawn to see if Naturopathic Medicine is right for you!

Intestinal Hyperpermeability (aka “Leaky Gut”)

The prevalence of intestinal hyperpermeability, also known as “leaky gut,” has gained attention in recent years.

 

Normally the small intestine aids in digestion of foods and absorption of nutrients, while also acting as a barrier to harmful substances.  These functions become compromised when the lining of the small intestine becomes excessively permeable, allowing harmful substances to enter the bloodstream. Factors such as dietary choices, chronic stress, certain medications, infections, and digestive microbiome imbalances can compromise the intestinal barrier integrity.

 

Naturopathic medicine offers a comprehensive approach to addressing these factors, with a focus on individual health goals and tailored strategies. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, incorporating specific practices into one’s lifestyle can improve intestinal hyperpermeability.

 

As a naturopathic doctor, my role is to help patients identify and achieve their health goals through personalized plans. To support “leaky gut”, some strategies have shown promise:

 

  1. Dietary Adjustments:  Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet is essential for healing the digestive lining. Emphasize whole, unprocessed foods rich in fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. On the other hand, it is important to minimize or avoid foods that can exacerbate digestive inflammation, such as refined sugars and processed foods.

 

  1. Nutritional Support:  Certain nutrients play an important role in restoring digestive health. L-glutamine, an amino acid, aids in intestinal cell regeneration.  Omega-3 fatty acids, from fish and algae, possess anti-inflammatory properties.  Herbal medicines possess healing properties and can aid in soothing the intestinal lining.  See your naturopathic doctor to help you choose the right supplements.

 

  1. Digestive Microbiome Balance:  Balancing the digestive microbiome is important to protect the intestinal lining. Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria, while prebiotics feed these bacteria. Incorporate fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and tempeh into your diet and consider high-quality probiotic supplements.

 

  1. Stress Management:  Chronic stress can impair the digestive barrier by causing mast cells to release their contents.  Implementing stress-reducing practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, and regular physical activity can help us reduce the impacts of stress on our body.

 

  1. Identifying Food Sensitivities:  Food sensitivities and allergies can contribute to increased intestinal permeability. Working with a naturopathic doctor can be beneficial to identify and eliminate potential trigger foods through an elimination diet or specialized testing.

 

Addressing intestinal hyperpermeability requires a multifaceted approach, and naturopathic medicine offers effective strategies. By adopting dietary modifications, incorporating digestive-healing nutrients and herbs, balancing the digestive microbiome, managing stress, and identifying food sensitivities, individuals can take proactive steps towards restoring digestive health.

 

Dr. Shawn Peters, ND is a naturopathic doctor practicing in downtown Courtenay.

Book in a Complimentary 15-minute, no obligation appointment with Dr. Shawn to see if Naturopathic Medicine is right for you!

Medicinal Plants in your Garden

It’s that time of year…the sun is shining, flowers are blooming, and gardens are growing!  Plants are outstanding allies for a number of reasons.  Plants not only provide us with a source of nutrition, but can also be used for everyday ailments.  While most of us will use our garden spaces to grow our favourite foods, you can also grow your own medicines. 

 

Many everyday foods are themselves medicines and a classic example is garlic.  Garlic is called Allium sativum and contains multiple compounds that are good for health.  I often find myself recommending garlic as part of a comprehensive plan for those with high cholesterol and blood pressure.  Garlic is rich in antioxidants, also valuable in supporting cardiovascular health.  Garlic is easy to grow, typically started in the fall and grown through the next summer.

 

Many common teas that we simply enjoy the taste of also have therapeutic properties.  A couple examples include Lemon balm (Melissa off.) and Chamomile (Matricaria recutita).  Chamomile is great to use as a companion plant, meaning it grows well amongst other aromatic herbs, like basil or peppermint.  Lemon balm can spread rather easily so it may best be planted in a pot to contain it. 

 

Both lemon balm and chamomile are carminatives, which means they reduce digestive disturbances like gas and cramping.  Both are calming to the nervous system so useful during times when stress impacts our digestion.  Aromatic herbs like these are generally best steeped for 10-15 minutes to maximize their health benefits.  When I create an individualized plan for someone with IBS, I often use herbs like these in a tincture formula for a stronger effect.

 

Coneflower (otherwise called Echinacea or Echinacea purpurea) is a beautiful plant that is easy to grow.  The root is the part used and generally we find this herb useful for colds and flus.  Roots require a different extraction method than teas, called a decoction, in order to extract the medicinal properties.  I tend to use Echinacea in a tincture formula with other good herbs for colds and flus (like Elderberry, for instance!).

 

Prudent use of herbal medicines involves ensuring they are the right ones for you, as they can interact with medications or with other herbs.  Use herbs wisely by consulting reputable resources, following instructions on labels, and seeking professional help when needed.

 

Health-related information contained here is intended to be general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for a visit with a regulated healthcare practitioner, like a licensed naturopathic doctor.

 

Dr. Shawn Peters, ND is a naturopathic doctor practicing in downtown Courtenay.

Book in a Complimentary 15-minute, no obligation appointment with Dr. Shawn to see if Naturopathic Medicine is right for you!

Dementia Prevention

According to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada, in 2020, 124,000 Canadians were diagnosed with dementia.  By 2030, it is projected that upwards of one million Canadians will be living with Dementia.  These are staggering numbers.

There are many causes and multiple types of dementia, including vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.  While there is no cure, there are factors that can be addressed to reduce one’s risk.  As a naturopathic doctor, I aim to help you identify risk factors and develop a plan to address them.  A comprehensive bloodwork panel can test for several risk factors, including blood sugar, inflammatory markers, homocysteine, and more.  Genetic tests can also be ordered as part of Alzheimer’s disease risk.

Reducing risk factors is critical, including making dietary changes to support blood sugar and heart health.  One particular way of eating, the Mediterranean diet, reduces inflammation, is rich in antioxidants, and is known to improve diabetes and cardiovascular disease risk.  All of these are aspects to address with dementia. 

A Mediterranean diet includes fish as a significant component, many of which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.  One consideration when eating fish is to avoid those higher in mercury.  This is because mercury has toxic effects on the body, especially the brain.  Lower mercury fish include shrimp, salmon, pollock, and canned light tuna. 

Lifestyle choices can also be impactful for dementia, including eliminating smoking, reducing excessive alcohol consumption, and exercising.  Exercise can improve memory, brain function, and increase blood flow to the brain.  Exercise can also improve blood sugar and heart health (the risk factors I discussed above).  There are different ways to exercise and various types to enjoy, but enjoyment is the key factor.  Like anything, the chance of continuing to exercise highly depends on whether you enjoy the activity.  So, the first step with exercising is picking something you enjoy doing.

One of the key aspects that I address with patients looking to prevent dementia is to reduce chronic inflammation.  This is because inflammation that affects the brain is a contributor to the progression of dementia and Alzheimer’s.  When thinking about a foundation for optimal brain health, we turn back to what we eat.  A diet that is rich in plant foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds) tends to include more antioxidants, which reduces inflammation in the body. 

On top of diet, there are herbal medicines and supplements that are anti-inflammatory.  Two examples include curcumin and fish oil, both of which help to reduce inflammation.  There are various types and qualities of curcumin and fish oil on the market, so ensure you pick the right one for you.  If in doubt, your naturopathic doctor can clarify.

Dr. Shawn Peters, ND is a naturopathic doctor practicing in downtown Courtenay.

Book a Complimentary 15-minute, no-obligation appointment with Dr. Shawn to see if Naturopathic Medicine is right for you!

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Early Cancer Testing You Should Know About

Part of being a health-conscious person is being aware of the early signs of cancer and taking advantage of cancer screening. Cancers caught early are often treatable. An estimated two in five Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime and about one in four will die from cancer, making it the leading cause of death in Canada. Having a relationship with a doctor who can provide regular checkups, blood work, and cancer screening simply saves lives. But because fewer people in the Comox Valley have a family doctor, these non-urgent conversations happen less often. People without a family doctor often only use the walk-in clinics for urgent concerns and miss out on regular screening. And what woman wants to go to a stranger at a walk-in clinic for intimate exams? As a naturopathic physician, more of my patients are accessing my services for basic medical screening tests and exams and I’m glad they have options. Here I’ll remind you of the key symptoms you should watch for and tests you should do regularly to screen for cancer. 

Paying attention to changes in your body and not ignoring them is important. It’s better to have a symptom checked out and found to be normal than ignore it and have it progress into overt issues. Symptoms that warrant investigation include unexplained: fatigue or weight loss, persistent lymph node enlargement, persistent hoarseness or coughing, bladder changes, any vaginal bleeding after menopause, easy bleeding or bruising, difficulty swallowing, unusual lumps, digestive issues, night sweats, neurological symptoms, changes to moles, white areas in the mouth and more.

Regular testing offers the chance to pick up cancer before it becomes serious. For women, PAP smears test the cervix for abnormal cells that can be or become cervical cancer. Current guidelines are for women aged 25-69 to do a PAP smear every three years. MDs or NDs can offer this service. Only about 75% of eligible Canadian women are up to date on this important test. 

Mammograms save lives. Women can just call the Comox Valley North Island Hospital. They can use an MD or an ND as the doctor who receives the results. Since one in five cases of breast cancer is found in women under 50, I agree that women in their 40s should be screened every two years.

The FIT test is a simple stool test that picks up invisible blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colon cancer. About one in 17 Canadians will get colon cancer, so it makes sense to regularly screen for it. Your MD or ND can provide the requisition for this test.

Prostate cancer screening is controversial because the harms associated with testing for and treating prostate cancer can outweigh the benefits. That said, research shows that screening blood tests do save lives, especially for high-risk populations.

I regularly provide skin cancer checks as part of a yearly physical exam, especially a patient has light-coloured skin, eyes and hair, has many moles or freckles, or report having had several blistering sunburns as a child. MDs can refer patients to dermatologists or skin specialists for diligent tracking or treatment of suspicious spots. 

I also recommend an annual full basic blood work-up, physical exam and discussion of any health issues that may be cropping up. It’s not possible to do good cancer screening when patients can only bring up one symptom, since it is often the constellation of symptoms that provides the clues needed to suspect cancer. Plus we want to be discussing healthy lifestyle practices to increase the chances of living long and well.

Dr. Deidre Macdonald is a naturopathic physician who has practiced in downtown Courtenay since 1997. 250 897-0235 or www.getwellhere.com