By Hattie Klotz,
Naturopathic doctors are particularly strong in the areas of prevention and integrative medicine.
Photograph by: Getty Images, The Ottawa CitizenAccording to a survey conducted for Health Canada's Office of Natural Health Products in 2005, Canadians are surprisingly highly aware of natural health alternatives.
The survey says more than 71 per cent now consume natural health products -- traditional herbal products, vitamins and mineral supplements, traditional Chinese, Ayurvedic and homeopathic preparations.
Ottawa naturopathic doctor David Lescheid has seen this awareness in his own practice. As the doctor shortage becomes critical and wait times to even get an appointment to see the family physician seem to stretch forever, frustrated patients are turning to alternative therapies for basic medical needs, he says.
"We're seeing increasing numbers of people who come to us for their primary care needs," he says.
Dr. Lescheid and his partner Dr. Kristy Lewis chose to move to Ottawa from Toronto to set up their naturopathic practice because they recognize the growing pressure on the conventional medical system and know they offer complimentary care.
"Everybody recognizes the system is not working as it is and we believe that we should be working with people's strengths," says Dr. Lewis.
"Naturopathic doctors are particularly strong in the areas of prevention and integrative medicine. We like to work with other practitioners, and when we need to, we refer patients to other professionals."
Currently, Dr. Lescheid and Dr. Lewis have an informal arrangement with Dr. Jean-Pierre Morrissey who has an office on the floor above Pure Med Naturopathic Centre at 292 Montreal Road in Vanier. They refer patients to one another.
"People recognize it is important to optimize their health to prevent illness in the future and we're seeing more and more of that," says Dr. Lewis. "Our aim is to create a patient-centred facility with a variety of services and one that is recognized as an integrative clinic giving the best care available in partnership with other practitioners."
Since Pure Med is a private clinic, patients must pay for everything from intravenous and inhalation therapy to nutrition, homoeopathy, acupuncture, massage and an infrared sauna. However, health plans are beginning to recognize alternative treatments.
That's one of the reasons Dr. Lescheid and Dr Lewis moved to Ottawa and set up shop in Vanier.
"Typically, people who visit a naturopathic doctor are more highly educated, a significant number are white-collar workers and they have health insurance that covers this," says Dr. Lescheid.
Ottawa, with its high percentage of government employees, is fertile ground, and the couple chose Vanier because it's an area of the city that is not yet well served by alternative health practitioners.
Dr. Lescheid has a Phd in molecular biology and protein chemistry from the University of Victoria and is a former professor at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine.
"I bring science to the art of naturopathic medicine and, to be honest, it's the naturopathic approach to the body and medicine, the way it looks at the body as a whole, from the mental, emotional, spiritual as well as physical levels that appeals to me.
"I've had a lot of experience with the conventional medical model but I'm more of a big picture person."
Dr. Lescheid is a spokesman for the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors and sits on the advisory panel for the National Health Products Directorate.
He says an important change is coming in Ontario. Naturopathic doctors will become regulated under the Regulated Health Professions Act.
"We'll fall under the same umbrella as doctors," he says. "This will mean a higher level of regulatory control, which will increase credibility for the industry."
SBBOT
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Uncovered Certified Organic Pumpkin Oil
This pumpkin seed oil is excellent for use in salads. It is made with a special variety of pumpkin oil that is only found in certain parts of the world. It also contains omega oils:
43% polyunsaturated Linoleic acid (omega 6), 36% monounsaturated Oleic acid (omega 9), 14% polyunsaturated Alpha-linolenic acid (omega 3), 8% saturated fatty acids.
43% polyunsaturated Linoleic acid (omega 6), 36% monounsaturated Oleic acid (omega 9), 14% polyunsaturated Alpha-linolenic acid (omega 3), 8% saturated fatty acids.
Revealed:CLA-Conjugate Linoleic Acid
CLA is an excellent adjuct for weight loss efforts. It is derived from wholesome safflower and sunflower oil. CLA inhibits fat storage by enhancing the ability of cell membranes (other than fat cells) to open up and allow the absorption of fats and other nutrients. It also promotes the growth of muscles by letting nutrients into active muscle cells.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Thursday, August 13, 2009
What Are Good Herbs in The Treatment of Acne
by Jefferso
There are plenty of different things that people do in an attempt to get rid of acne. Some of these are pharmaceutical but they tend to carry some side effects that most of us do not want to have to deal with. It is always a better idea to try and cure something naturally so that you don’t mess anything else up in the process. To be certain, there are several different herbs that can be taken which will help to clear up your skin if not get rid of your acne altogether.
These herbs have been used for many years for a variety of different reasons. As a matter of fact, some of them have been used in Asia for well over 5000 years, both to help clear up skin and to take care of other health issues. If you are having a problem with acne or with problem skin, here are three different herbs that you can take which will help to get your body back into balance and to clear up your skin naturally.
Basil - The Herb has been used for a variety of different reasons but most importantly, it kills bacteria which may be at the root of your acne problems. Not only that, it helps to clean the blood that may carry this bacteria and keep it within your body. Basil tea has been taken for many years in order to solve problems like this. Even the soil where the basil grows become so pure that it is renowned for its healing mud baths.
Sandalwood - This herb comes from the bark of the Sandalwood tree and many people consider it to be great aromatherapy. By spreading this substance onto your skin, you are going to help to heal it and to give it a healthy glow that will last for quite some time.
Lavender - Along with being a great smelling herb, it also helps to reduce inflammation and has some antiseptic properties which can go a long way in helping you with your acne. If you love the smell of lavender, you should try using this on your problem skin as well.
Tea Tree Oil - This is probably one of the better-known herbs that works for acne and it does an excellent job because of its antibacterial properties along with the fact that it is antiseptic in nature. Make sure you dilute this oil before applying it directly to your skin.
There are plenty of different things that people do in an attempt to get rid of acne. Some of these are pharmaceutical but they tend to carry some side effects that most of us do not want to have to deal with. It is always a better idea to try and cure something naturally so that you don’t mess anything else up in the process. To be certain, there are several different herbs that can be taken which will help to clear up your skin if not get rid of your acne altogether.
These herbs have been used for many years for a variety of different reasons. As a matter of fact, some of them have been used in Asia for well over 5000 years, both to help clear up skin and to take care of other health issues. If you are having a problem with acne or with problem skin, here are three different herbs that you can take which will help to get your body back into balance and to clear up your skin naturally.
Basil - The Herb has been used for a variety of different reasons but most importantly, it kills bacteria which may be at the root of your acne problems. Not only that, it helps to clean the blood that may carry this bacteria and keep it within your body. Basil tea has been taken for many years in order to solve problems like this. Even the soil where the basil grows become so pure that it is renowned for its healing mud baths.
Sandalwood - This herb comes from the bark of the Sandalwood tree and many people consider it to be great aromatherapy. By spreading this substance onto your skin, you are going to help to heal it and to give it a healthy glow that will last for quite some time.
Lavender - Along with being a great smelling herb, it also helps to reduce inflammation and has some antiseptic properties which can go a long way in helping you with your acne. If you love the smell of lavender, you should try using this on your problem skin as well.
Tea Tree Oil - This is probably one of the better-known herbs that works for acne and it does an excellent job because of its antibacterial properties along with the fact that it is antiseptic in nature. Make sure you dilute this oil before applying it directly to your skin.
How to Use Alternative Medicine For Pets
In the same way that human being may decide to pass on western medicine in favor of natural therapies, pet owners sometimes opt for natural treatments for their companions’ ailments. When our pets become sick, or receive some type of injury, we must undertake whatever measures are necessary to support the healing process. However, a diet aimed at preventing sickness and promoting a long healthy life should also be part of caring for any pet.
1/ Diet
There are a number of animals which make good pets, with vast dietary differences among them. Before committing to getting any type of pet, you should get all the necessary information related to their care, especially when it comes to feeding them. Many people would be surprised to know that dogs for example require many of the same nutrients that humans do. Aside from feeding them a diet rich in protein and carbohydrates, it is also necessary to give them vitamins which can be purchased at any pet store.
Few pet owners know that most dogs are lactose intolerant. So if you are feeding your dog milk and it develops any sort of stomach upset, you should stop immediately and see if the problems go away. Pets such as iguanas and ferrets also have strict feeding recommendations which should be adhered to.
2/Herbal Supplements
It should come as no surprise that the advances in herbal medicine have found their way into veterinary treatments as well. Below is a list of herbs that have been shown to have beneficial effects on pets.
Aloe Vera - This help to relieve itching and is great for speeding up the healing of cuts as well as guarding against infection.
Ginseng - It works best for older animals, and is good for increasing energy. It is also useful for the boosting the metabolism of dogs. It must be noted that there are different types of ginseng, therefore you should seek advice before administering it to your pet.
Milk Thistle - This is useful for protecting an animal’s liver, especially in cases where it has been weakened by disease.
Ginko - Its effects in animals are very similar to the effects in humans. It helps to increase the flow of blood to the brain, and so assists in boosting cognitive function, which is especially helpful for older pets.
Echinacea - This has been proven to strengthen the immune system. Therefore it can not only protect your pet from infection, but it also help ward off diseases.
Ginger - Though not considered a herb, ginger is a widely acknowledged digestive aid and can help pets that have motion sickness. It is also good for any sort of digestive problems the animal may have.
Glucosamine and Chondroitan - While these fall into the nutraceutical category, they are highly recommended for pets to keep their joints healthy well into their later years.
Keep in mind that it is not wise to administer herbs to your pets without the requisite research, or at least a talk with your vet or natural health practitioner. To maintain the natural care for your pet you can also search online for natural remedies for dealing with pests such as fleas and tic
1/ Diet
There are a number of animals which make good pets, with vast dietary differences among them. Before committing to getting any type of pet, you should get all the necessary information related to their care, especially when it comes to feeding them. Many people would be surprised to know that dogs for example require many of the same nutrients that humans do. Aside from feeding them a diet rich in protein and carbohydrates, it is also necessary to give them vitamins which can be purchased at any pet store.
Few pet owners know that most dogs are lactose intolerant. So if you are feeding your dog milk and it develops any sort of stomach upset, you should stop immediately and see if the problems go away. Pets such as iguanas and ferrets also have strict feeding recommendations which should be adhered to.
2/Herbal Supplements
It should come as no surprise that the advances in herbal medicine have found their way into veterinary treatments as well. Below is a list of herbs that have been shown to have beneficial effects on pets.
Aloe Vera - This help to relieve itching and is great for speeding up the healing of cuts as well as guarding against infection.
Ginseng - It works best for older animals, and is good for increasing energy. It is also useful for the boosting the metabolism of dogs. It must be noted that there are different types of ginseng, therefore you should seek advice before administering it to your pet.
Milk Thistle - This is useful for protecting an animal’s liver, especially in cases where it has been weakened by disease.
Ginko - Its effects in animals are very similar to the effects in humans. It helps to increase the flow of blood to the brain, and so assists in boosting cognitive function, which is especially helpful for older pets.
Echinacea - This has been proven to strengthen the immune system. Therefore it can not only protect your pet from infection, but it also help ward off diseases.
Ginger - Though not considered a herb, ginger is a widely acknowledged digestive aid and can help pets that have motion sickness. It is also good for any sort of digestive problems the animal may have.
Glucosamine and Chondroitan - While these fall into the nutraceutical category, they are highly recommended for pets to keep their joints healthy well into their later years.
Keep in mind that it is not wise to administer herbs to your pets without the requisite research, or at least a talk with your vet or natural health practitioner. To maintain the natural care for your pet you can also search online for natural remedies for dealing with pests such as fleas and tic
How Much is a Smile Worth?
Steve Mye
How much is a smile worth? A good set of pearly whites not only shines happiness, but can also signal good health. One’s level of oral care is reflective of how well the rest of the body is cared for and has been linked to the risk of degenerative diseases. The state of the mouth can also reveal nutritional behavior, good or bad. As natural products have made their mark in the American diet, so, too, have they made their way into the oral care market, offering an effective alternative to conventional oral products that often contain harsh ingredients.
Good teeth and gums mean more than just a great smile and avoiding the dentist's drill. Periodontal health has been linked to many systemic diseases, although the links are mostly epidemiological. The American Dental Association (ADA) noted periodontis may be connected in some way to cardiovascular disease (CVD), stroke, bacterial pneumonia and pre-term/low birth-weight babies.
Ellen Kamhi, Ph.D., RN, author of “The Natural Medicine Chest” and herbalist/nutritionist for Nature's Answer, noted the recent surgeon general's report noted poor periodontal health affects three out of four Americans. "Recent university studies correlate this silent epidemic with many major illnesses because the microorganisms that cause periodontal disease easily migrate into the heart muscle and other body tissues," she added.
"As many as 75 percent of adults in the United States have been affected by periodontal disease, and an estimated 80.7 million adults (one out of every three) have been a victim of CVD in 2006, according to the American Heart Association (AHA)," said Kristine Schreiber, director of brand marketing, Natural Dentist Inc.
The connection between oral health and systemic disease may well be in the saliva's ability to provide markers of various health problems, from dental caries and periodontal disease to osteoporosis, infectious diseases and cancer.
Fighting Tooth Decay, Strengthening Gums
The first thing most people think of when it comes to dental care is preventing or limiting tooth decay. Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth enamel by sugars and starches from eating foods such as milk, soda, fruits and sweets. Left behind on the teeth, these carbohydrates attract bacteria that produce acid harmful to tooth enamel. Left unhindered, this acid can promote tooth decay.
One of the most alarming statistics for tooth decay involves young children. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) analysis of the NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) trial revealed tooth decay is increasing among young children, even as oral care improves. The number of children with tooth decay rose from 18 percent between 1988 and 1994, to 24 percent between 1999 and 2004, CDC reported.
How much is a smile worth? A good set of pearly whites not only shines happiness, but can also signal good health. One’s level of oral care is reflective of how well the rest of the body is cared for and has been linked to the risk of degenerative diseases. The state of the mouth can also reveal nutritional behavior, good or bad. As natural products have made their mark in the American diet, so, too, have they made their way into the oral care market, offering an effective alternative to conventional oral products that often contain harsh ingredients.
Good teeth and gums mean more than just a great smile and avoiding the dentist's drill. Periodontal health has been linked to many systemic diseases, although the links are mostly epidemiological. The American Dental Association (ADA) noted periodontis may be connected in some way to cardiovascular disease (CVD), stroke, bacterial pneumonia and pre-term/low birth-weight babies.
Ellen Kamhi, Ph.D., RN, author of “The Natural Medicine Chest” and herbalist/nutritionist for Nature's Answer, noted the recent surgeon general's report noted poor periodontal health affects three out of four Americans. "Recent university studies correlate this silent epidemic with many major illnesses because the microorganisms that cause periodontal disease easily migrate into the heart muscle and other body tissues," she added.
"As many as 75 percent of adults in the United States have been affected by periodontal disease, and an estimated 80.7 million adults (one out of every three) have been a victim of CVD in 2006, according to the American Heart Association (AHA)," said Kristine Schreiber, director of brand marketing, Natural Dentist Inc.
The connection between oral health and systemic disease may well be in the saliva's ability to provide markers of various health problems, from dental caries and periodontal disease to osteoporosis, infectious diseases and cancer.
Fighting Tooth Decay, Strengthening Gums
The first thing most people think of when it comes to dental care is preventing or limiting tooth decay. Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth enamel by sugars and starches from eating foods such as milk, soda, fruits and sweets. Left behind on the teeth, these carbohydrates attract bacteria that produce acid harmful to tooth enamel. Left unhindered, this acid can promote tooth decay.
One of the most alarming statistics for tooth decay involves young children. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) analysis of the NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) trial revealed tooth decay is increasing among young children, even as oral care improves. The number of children with tooth decay rose from 18 percent between 1988 and 1994, to 24 percent between 1999 and 2004, CDC reported.
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