The post Can Nutrition Help You Manage Stress? appeared first on Annex Naturopathic Clinic. To say that we are experiencing stressful times is an understatement. Life is often full of stressors whether it’s work, kids, or simply trying to find enough time in your day to relax and take a moment to breathe but right now our stress is amplified. But have you ever stopped to consider what role your diet could play in managing stress? As a Toronto naturopathic clinic, one of our areas of focus is nutrition, and how it can help you stay healthy both physically and mentally. Let’s take a look at stress, and how your diet can affect it. How Does Diet Affect Stress?All of us have experienced some level of stress eating. You might be tired, stretched thin, and searching for a little bit of comfort when you reach for your go-to chocolate bar or bag of chips. But your diet can affect your stress levels even before you feel those cravings. Instead of going through the usual cycle of feeling stressed, reaching for junk food, and then feeling gross afterward, you can work on eating healthy foods first to reduce the feeling of stress in your body. When you are eating a healthy diet that is rich in vitamins and nutrients, your body can get a healthful boost that helps you achieve mental clarity and a positive mood which in turn helps you to deal with life’s regular stressors. Does Poor Diet Make Stress Worse?We know that a good diet can be helpful in dealing with stress but we should also consider how a poor diet affects stress. It’s easy to feel the siren call of a tub of ice cream or a bag of chocolate chip cookies when we’re stressed but in fact, unhealthy foods like this can actually make stress worse. It’s known that when you first eat junk food as a response to stress, your body feels good but after that initial response it drops off quickly. The more junk food you eat, the more likely you are to feel the negative effects (think sugar crashes and feeling slow and sluggish) which in turn can create a stressful effect on the body. Some studies have even shown that eating more junk food is linked to depression. Why Do We Reach For Junk Food When We’re Stressed?When we’re stressed, we have an innate response that wants to find comfort and one of the easiest ways to do that is to eat certain foods. There are several reasons that we gravitate toward junk food when we are stressed. The first reason is the sensation that we get when eating food. This includes the smell of food, the taste, and how it feels in your mouth which is also known as orosensation. The second reason is that junk food is manufactured specifically to get the right combination of salt, sugar, and fat that hits your brain’s pleasure centre and keeps you coming back for more. The brain likes variety and as you eat the same foods over and over, it gets bored and wants something to shake up your usual routine. But junk food is specifically designed to override your brain’s response by providing enough taste to be interesting, but not so much that the sensory response gets dulled over time. What Food Should You Eat Instead?You might be reading this and thinking, okay, if junk food is bad for stress then what should I be eating instead? We’ve got you covered. There are plenty of healthy foods that provide your brain with sensory satisfaction while also giving your body the nourishment it needs to better fight stress. 1. First of All, WaterYou’ve heard it before, staying hydrated is vital to healthy living. Water has very real effects on the body and can help with headaches, satiety, and surprisingly, your mood. One study showed that people who initially had a low water intake experienced several benefits when they increased their water intake including calmness, satisfaction, and positive emotions. 2. Dark ChocolateChocolate is a known comfort food but if you want something to satisfy your craving, opt for dark chocolate (with a minimum of 70% cacao) over milk chocolate. Dark chocolate benefits brain health due to the flavonoids found in cacao which act as potent antioxidants. One study found that an intake of 40g of dark chocolate per day over a period of two weeks was an effective way to reduce stress in women. 3. Citrus FruitsYou might already know that when you are stressed out, your brain releases cortisol which is a hormone that increases your appetite and can lead you back down the path of junk food. But high levels of vitamin C have been known to reduce stress hormones as well as protecting your body’s immune function. Citrus fruits are known to be high in vitamin C so go ahead and make, oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and limes a regular part of your diet and you can reap the benefits of all that extra vitamin C. 4. PeppermintIf you’ve experienced indigestion, you’ve probably reached for a nice cup of peppermint tea, but it can also have benefits to help reduce feelings of stress. Not only does peppermint help to calm your stomach but studies have shown that peppermint has an analgesic effect on the central and peripheral nervous system. Whether you enjoy it as a tea or in your food, clearly peppermint has some very real benefits. 5. Raw Fruits & VegetablesWe all know that getting more fruits and vegetables into our diet is the best way to help our overall health but you should also note that the way your fruits and veggies are served makes a difference. In this case, raw is best. Fruits and vegetables are full of micronutrients but these can be lost when they are processed by cooking or canning. In a study of over 400 adults, researchers found that subjects who had a regular intake of raw fruits and vegetables as opposed to processed ones reported reduced depressive symptoms, higher positive mood, satisfaction, and flourishing. Some of the foods that subjects reported eating most often include carrots, bananas, apples, lettuce, dark leafy greens such as spinach, citrus fruits, fresh berries, cucumber, and kiwi. Book An Appointment At Annex NaturopathicAre you looking to reduce the amount of stress in your life and want to do it naturally? Would you like to know more about how you can boost the number of stress-relieving foods in your diet? If so, booking an appointment at Annex Naturopathic is the first step to achieving that lifestyle. During your first appointment with us, we’ll go over your specific goals and devise a plan to help you eat the right foods for stress management. From there, we’ll check in with you and help you stay on track while you follow your new, custom, naturopathic plan. Book an appointment with us today.
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The post Health Benefits Of Eggs appeared first on Annex Naturopathic Clinic. Poached. Scrambled. Over-easy. Sunny-side up. Boiled. These are just a few of the many ways in which eggs can be prepared. From assisting with weight loss to being natural anxiety solutions, eggs have a number of health benefits associated with them. However they sometimes get a bad rap because they are high in cholesterol. So are eggs all they’re cracked up to be? Keep reading to learn more about eggs, from a naturopathic medicine perspective. Conventional Vs. Cage Free Vs. Free Range Eggs – What’s The Difference?There is a lot of talk when it comes to how hens who lay eggs for consumers to eventually purchase are kept. It’s largely an ethics and animal welfare issue, however, there is a difference in nutritional value in eggs depending on how they are harvested as well. Most hens who lay eggs for people’s consumption are kept in what are called “battery cages”. The ethics of keeping hens in cages which are on-average 67 square inches of space, is a big reason why more and more people are choosing cage-free or free-range eggs. Cage-free hens, on the other hand, are given space to roam and walk about, however, this doesn’t mean they are cruelty-free. Additionally, even though cage-free hens have space to roam around, they still don’t necessarily have access to the outdoors. The big difference between cage-free and free-range hens is that free-range hens have access to the outdoors. There is some evidence free-range eggs may also be healthier to eat. A 2014 study in the journal Nutrition found the vitamin D content to be three to four times higher in hens who have access to the outdoors, either full or part-time, versus those who were kept inside 100% of the time. So when it comes to labels, in terms of the conditions for the hens your eggs came from, this is something you might want to pay attention to. Benefits Of EggsWith so many ways to prepare eggs, there’s a good chance you can find a way – or two – which appeals to you. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of adding eggs to your diet. 1. One Of The Most Nutrient-Dense Foods On EarthEggs are one of the most nutritious foods you can find. Just one large boiled egg contains:
As well as substantial amounts of:
Some people have said eggs are the perfect food, as they contain just about every nutrient you need. 2. One Of The Most Versatile Foods On EarthEggs are incredibly versatile. From being the main course, in dishes such as an omelet or quiche, to having a hard-boiled egg chopped up to add protein to a salad, there are multiple ways these nutritional powerhouses can be added to a meal. If you don’t like eggs prepared one way, chances are you can find another way to enjoy them. It’s no surprise that eggs are a staple of so many different types of cuisine worldwide. 3. May Help Manage AnxietyEggs are high in nutrients which can help manage anxiety, including: If you find yourself feeling heightened levels of anxiety, try adding eggs to your diet. 4. Decreases Risk Of Heart DiseaseSo you might have heard of the two types of cholesterol. HDL, or “high-density lipoprotein” (aka “good” cholesterol) and LDL, or “low-density lipoprotein” (aka “bad” cholesterol). Eggs increase levels of HDL cholesterol, which lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke. 5. May Help With Weight LossEggs are incredibly filling, due to their high levels of protein – the most satiating of the micronutrients. In fact, they score high on the Satiety Index, which measures how full different foods can make you feel. One study, in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found study participants who ate an egg for breakfast felt fuller and consumed fewer calories over the proceeding 36-hour period, than those who ate bagels for breakfast. Book An Appointment At Annex NaturopathicAre you worried about not getting proper nutrition in your diet? Perhaps you are looking for ways to incorporate more eggs or other nutritious foods in your diet? Annex Naturopathic can help with natural nutrition advice and offer natural, nutrition-based solutions for many of the health issues you might be dealing with. Contact us today for more information, or to set up an appointment. The post Is COVID-19 Stress Causing Your Tummy Troubles? appeared first on Annex Naturopathic Clinic. Have you ever experienced an upset stomach before an important event? “Butterflies” in your stomach before a first date, or a big presentation at work. Have an argument with someone and leave feeling like your stomach is “tied in knots”. All of these digestive health issues can be due to stress, and right now stress levels are pretty high due to issues related to COVID-19. Stress about the health of yourself, and your friends and family. Financial worries due to job loss, or hours being cut back. If you are experiencing stomach issues due to any of this, there are a number of natural solutions which can help ease these issues. Keep reading as we take a closer look from a naturopathic perspective at the connection between stress levels and stomach upset, as well as a few natural remedies to help ease tummy issues. The Gut-Brain ConnectionHave you ever wondered why feeling stressed or upset can lead to stomach issues? Why being in an uncomfortable situation can lead to feelings of nausea? It’s because activity in the brain affects the gastrointestinal tract. A useful example of this is when you start to think about eating, signals are sent to your stomach to release stomach acids which can help digest food. This close interaction between the brain and stomach helps to explain why we experience stomach issues when we are stressed out. But there’s more to it than that. In fact, part of your nervous system is located inside your gut. Your central nervous system (CNS) is located in your brain and spinal cord, and your enteric nervous system is like a liaison between your CNS and your gut. So when you have a “gut feeling” about something, or a difficult situation gives you an upset stomach, that feeling is coming from your enteric nervous system The Connection Between Stress And Many Other IllnessesIn additional to stomach issues, the journal Alternative Medicine Review showed links between stress and a number of other illnesses. Some of these include: Soothe Your Stress To Soothe Your GutIf you are experiencing stomach upset due to stress, taking measures to lessen your stress can also help to relieve your stomach issues. When reviewing these remedies, it is very important to keep in mind these are not cures or treatments for COVID-19. At this point, there is nothing – naturopathic or otherwise – which can cure COVID-19. If you suspect you have symptoms of COVID-19 it is important to follow the directions from your local health authority and practice self-isolation. If what you are experiencing is stress and stomach upset due to the uncertainty in the world, though, keep reading for some natural solutions. What Are Adaptogens?Adaptogens are plants, herbs, and roots which have a long history of being used in traditional Chinese medicine, as well as Ayurvedic healing traditions. Each adaptogen works in a different way, but generally speaking, they all help the body to adapt to stress, and some can help support your immune system and improve overall well-being. Let’s look specifically at the use of adaptogens for dealing with stress. Adaptogens For Stress ManagementAdaptogens are generally seen as plants and herbs which can help resist stress on the body. They help the body to react and recover from both physical and mental stress. Let’s take a closer look at a few specific adaptogens. 1. AshwagandhaAshwagandha has been used for a long time in Ayurvedic medicine. An article in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine looked at the effectiveness of ashwagandha in reducing stress in adults. The study found participants in the ashwagandha treatment group experienced significant reductions to stress scores when compared to the placebo group. Ashwagandha works by lowering cortisol levels, which are linked to stress and can help with insomnia, related to high-stress levels. 2. Tulsi/Holy BasilTulsi, also known as holy basil comes from Indian tradition and is typically taken in the form of a tea. A 2014 study in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine looked at the wide range of uses of this multi-purpose herb. It was found to be a potent adaptogen which protects against toxins and is beneficial for overall health. 3. Licorice RootLicorice root has been shown to help promote and support adrenal gland activity, which means it may help balance adrenal hormones which include cortisol, the “stress hormone” Additionally, a study in Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine looked at the effect of an indigestion remedy containing licorice as a main ingredient. Patients who received the medication containing licorice experienced a significant reduction in symptoms compared to the placebo group. Seeing as how licorice can deal with both stress as well as digestive issues, it may be doubly as useful for dealing with digestive issues related to stress. Licorice root has also been used as a natural treatment for cold sores. It should be noted that because licorice can interact with some medications, as well as cause issues for pregnant individuals, it is important to speak to you doctor or naturopath before beginning its use. 4. American GinsengGinseng has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine. American ginseng in particular is thought to have relaxing effects, whereas Asian ginseng is said to be invigorating. A study in the journal Psychopharmacology looked at the effects of ginseng on brain function. American ginseng was found to increase calmness, reaction time accuracy, and working memory. Ginseng is also useful as a treatment for men’s fertility. Book An Appointment At Annex NaturopathicAre you experiencing higher-than average levels of stress due to the current state of the COVID-19 pandemic? Is this leading you to also have unpleasant physical symptoms and digestive issues? Although we cannot provide treatment for COVID-19 itself, we can offer naturopathic solutions for the unpleasant symptoms linked to the excess stress you may be experiencing in this time. Our office is currently closed for in person visits, however we are still offering phone and virtual consultation. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a virtual appointment. The post What’s The Difference Between The Different Types OF Fats? appeared first on Annex Naturopathic Clinic. For years, we were told that fat is bad for us, and eating too much fat is what makes people overweight and causes health issues. This seems to make sense, right? The more fat you eat, the fatter you get. But in recent years, this message has become somewhat muddled. We now know that not all fats are bad. In fact, some fats are even good for cardiovascular health and can help to lower cholesterol levels. Let’s take a look at what fat is, what the different types of fat are, and how you can get the right types of fat in your life. What Is Fat?Fats are one of the three main macronutrients used by the body, along with carbohydrates and proteins. They are an important part of the human diet, and serve a number of important functions in the body, including:
What Are The Different Types Of Fats?You’ve likely heard about some of the different types of fats. Perhaps you’ve seen warnings to avoid foods with trans fats. Or seen calls to eat more healthy fats. Not all fats are created equal – so let’s take a closer look at the types of fats, which ones you should be including in your diet, which ones to avoid, and some of the foods they can be found in. 1. Saturated FatsSaturated fats are one of the types of “bad fats” to be avoided. Due to their molecular structure, saturated fats are solid when at room temperature – the easiest example to think of is cooled bacon grease. They increase levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol and can cause plaque to build up in the heart and arteries. An increased level of LDL cholesterol also heightens the risk of heart disease. A 2017 study in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism, And Cardiovascular Disease found that replacing saturated fats in one’s diet with polyunsaturated or monounsaturated fats will lower the risk of coronary heart disease. Foods which contain saturated fats include:
These foods don’t necessarily need to be avoided completely, however, the American Heart Association recommends no more than 6% of daily calorie intake be from saturated fats. 2. Polyunsaturated FatsYou might have heard about the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. This is an example of polyunsaturated fats. Omega-3s are important for forming cell membranes and assist with the functions of the lungs, heart, immune system, and endocrine system. They also assist with brain health, including promoting cognitive development, may reduce anxiety and depression, and may lower the risk of dementia. Common sources of omega-3 fatty acids include:
Side effects of not getting enough omega-3 include dry hair and nails, dry eyes, as well as brain fog, irritability, and reduced quality of sleep. 3. Monounsaturated FatsAnother type of “good fats” are monounsaturated fats. These can help to improve blood cholesterol levels and help to decrease the risk of heart disease. A characteristic of these fats is at room temperature they are liquid, however, they solidify when chilled. Monounsaturated fats can be found in:
4. Trans FatsThe final type of fat we are going to look at today are trans fats. You’ve likely heard the warnings to avoid trans fats in your diet – let’s look at why they are considered to be so bad. A 2007 study in the journal Circulation looked at the link between trans fats and heart health. This study found higher levels of trans fatty acids in red blood cells were linked to an increased risk of coronary heart disease. A second study, from the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed the presence of trans fats increases LDL [bad] cholesterol without increasing HDL [good] cholesterol. Trans fats are mostly found in foods which have been highly processed, as they can help food to last longer, and give foods a pleasurable taste and texture. Some foods which may contain trans fats include:
Book An Appointment At Annex NaturopathicConfused about nutrition? Looking to improve your diet, but not sure where to start? Do you have a health concern, and want to look at ways to address it through proper nutrition? Annex Naturopathic can help. Contact us today to set up a consultation with one of our Toronto naturopaths to learn more. The post Natural Ways To Support Your Immune System appeared first on Annex Naturopathic Clinic. Your immune system is your body’s way of protecting itself from infections and diseases in general. There are natural ways you can support your immune system and encourage a healthy response to illness or pathogens. Encouraging natural immune system health is step one in helping your body fight off illness in general. Let’s look at some of the most important foods you should include in your diet to support your immune system. What Is Your Immune System?Your immune system is essentially how your body protects itself from pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites. White blood cells play an important role as security guards, patrolling your body for these unhealthy and unwelcome visitors. These cells attack pathogens and protect you from infection and illness. It’s important to eat a nutritious diet that boosts white blood cell count and gives your immune system the foundation it needs to keep you healthy. Foods To Support Your Immune SystemCertain nutrients are essential when it comes to supporting your immune system. By choosing foods naturally high in these vitamins and minerals, you’re giving your immune system various benefits to help it protect your body from pathogens. Let’s look at why these nutrients are so beneficial for immune health, and how you can incorporate them into your diet. 1. Citrus FruitsOf all the essential nutrients, vitamin C is one of the best supporters of your immune system. This is due to its role in increasing the production of white blood cells, which fight infection. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, meaning it fights oxidative stress and helps your body’s tissue repair itself from damage. This vitamin also helps prevent and mitigate respiratory and systemic infections. It’s necessary to get sufficient amounts of this vitamin through your diet, because your body cannot produce vitamin C on its own. Citrus fruits are a great dietary source of vitamin C, so consider including some of these tasty and nutritious fruits to help out your immune system. Popular citrus fruits include: • Oranges From adding a squeeze of lemon to a glass of hot water, to using the zest or juice of one of these fruits in a savoury dish — there are plenty of ways to add vitamin C to your daily routine. 2. Fortified Milk AlternativesNowadays, some foods are fortified with vitamins and minerals to help you ensure you’re getting enough of the essential nutrients your body needs. One of the most popular and widely accessible fortified foods is milk and milk alternatives. Many varieties of cow’s milk, almond, and other nut milks, and rice milk are fortified with vitamin D because of how common vitamin D deficiencies are, especially in Canada. Vitamin D is not just beneficial for your bone health — it’s also a key factor in the health of your immune system. If you’re deficient in vitamin D, your immune system suffers and you may become more susceptible to infection. Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Ensuring you have enough of this essential will help protect your immune system and decrease your risk of developing a deficiency. Fortified milk products and alternatives are a plentiful dietary source of vitamin D and an easy way to ensure you’re getting enough of this essential vitamin. 3. NutsKnown for being abundant with nutrients and healthy fats, nuts are a delicious snack with immune-boosting properties. This is because of the vitamins and minerals they contain, specifically vitamin E and zinc. Vitamin E, a fat-soluble vitamin and antioxidant, has shown to play an important role in maintaining the health of your immune system. Like we’ve seen with vitamin D, vitamin E deficiency is linked to increased infections, as well as increased incidence of tumours. The above study also noted vitamin E supplementation helped improve immunity in elderly individuals with immune cell damage. Because vitamin E is fat-soluble, it requires fat to be present for your body to absorb it properly. Nuts are chockfull of healthy fats, making them the perfect vitamin E delivery device. Zinc is another essential nutrient found in nuts that benefits your immune system. By decreasing oxidative stress (which causes cell damage) and inflammation, zinc helps reduce your chances of developing an infection and supports immune health. If you’re deficient in zinc, it will take a toll on your immune system by causing or exacerbating immune dysfunctions. Nuts including almonds, peanuts, and cashews are a few excellent dietary sources of zinc. 4. EggsEggs are naturally high in vitamin A, which has a huge impact on your immune system. Vitamin A is a micronutrient with anti-inflammatory properties that is crucial for the development of your immune system. It also helps regulate your body’s immune response and helps you heal from infection and infectious diseases. Eggs are one of the top dietary sources of vitamin A, and they contain the fat necessary for your body to absorb this fat-soluble vitamin. From boiling to poaching to baking, there are many nutritious and delicious ways to prepare this vitamin-rich food. 5. Probiotic FoodsProbiotics aren’t only beneficial for your gastrointestinal system. They also help promote “T cells”, or T lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell that protects your body from cancer cells and pathogens. Studies have displayed that probiotics show therapeutic potential for immune response-related diseases and have immunoregulatory effects. The best dietary sources of probiotics are fermented foods, which have undergone a metabolic process that cultivates healthy bacteria from sugar and starch. Yogurt can be high in probiotics, but make sure to check the label for active cultures. Other probiotic-rich foods include miso, sauerkraut, tempeh, and kombucha. Book An Appointment At Annex NaturopathicThe wellbeing of your immune system is crucial when it comes to preventing infection and staying healthy. You can boost your immune strength by mindfully consuming a nutritious diet full of essential nutrients. The above vitamins and minerals provide your immune system with the foundation it needs to keep your body strong and well. If you’re suffering from an autoimmune disorder or another condition that affects (or is affected by) your immune health, it’s even more important to take care of your immune system — and we can help. If you want to know more about natural solutions for immune health, contact us at Annex Naturopathic, a Toronto clinic for naturopathic medicine. We would love to work with you on an all-natural treatment plan that works for you and your body. Book an appointment with Annex Naturopathic today. The post What Is A Zoonotic Virus? appeared first on Annex Naturopathic Clinic. COVID-19. Novel Coronavirus. SARS-CoV-2. There are a lot of terms floating around in relation to the current global pandemic, and things can get a little confusing sometimes. At the time of this writing, neither a naturopathic doctor nor anyone else can provide treatment for this issue. However, let’s clear things up a little about what exactly this virus is, and how it spreads. What Is A Virus?Viruses are parasites which are microscopic in size – depending on the specific virus and specific bacteria, they can be anywhere from eight to 40 times smaller than bacteria. As an example of how tiny viruses actually are, the virus which causes polio is approximately 10,000 times smaller than a grain of salt. Additionally, they are unable to reproduce on their own and require a host body in order to do so. Is A Virus Alive?Although viruses contain DNA or RNA (but not both), the key elements required to make a living organism – they are unable to replicate without a host cell because they lack the ability to interpret and act upon their genetic material. In short, a virus must take over a cell and take over the use of its metabolic processes in order to replicate it. Most biologists agree that in order for something to be considered “alive”, it must have the following properties:
Therefore, although viruses contain the key building blocks of life in the form of DNA or RNA, strictly speaking, viruses are not alive because they cannot reproduce without the use of a host cell. What Is A Zoonotic Virus?People interact with animals all the time – and generally, these interactions are beneficial. Just think of your relationship with a treasured pet. We also use animals to help do jobs, and some people eat meat as a source of nutrition. Some animals, however, can carry illnesses and spread those to people. Illnesses or disease which can spread from animals to humans are known as zoonotic disease or zoonoses. Zoonoses are extremely common – scientists estimate that approximately 60% of infectious disease can be spread from animals. How Do Zoonotic Viruses Spread From Animals To People?There are a few different ways in which a zoonotic virus can spread from animals to people. Direct or indirect contact, food and water, and vectors such as ticks or mosquitos can all spread viruses and other pathogens. Let’s take a closer look at each of these. 1. Through Direct ContactDirect contact with bodily fluids of an infected animal, including urine, feces, saliva, mucus, or blood can spread viruses and other pathogens. Contact could be from animal bites or scratches and petting or touching. 2. Through Indirect ContactIndirect contact means contact with areas where animals live, sleep and play, such as plants, soil, food and water dishes for pets, aquarium tanks, and barns or chicken coops. An example of a disease which was spread this way is the bubonic plague, although it was more common for it to be spread through direct contact with rodents. 3. Through Food & WaterOne in ten people worldwide fall ill as a result of foodborne illnesses. This can include raw or unpasteurized milk, undercooked meat, or fruits and vegetables which have been contaminated. Drinking or washing with water which has been in contact with feces from an infected animal can also cause illness. Generally, pathogens spread in this way are bacterial, such as E. coli and salmonella, rather than viruses. 4. Through Insect VectorsA disease vector is any agent which carries and infects another living organism. Common vectors include ticks, fleas, and mosquitos. Ticks are known for spreading Lyme disease, while mosquitos can transmit a number of viruses including West Nile, malaria, and Zika to name a few. The most well-known disease associated with fleas is the bubonic plague. Could Going Vegan Eliminate Zoonotic Viruses?You might be wondering if going vegan, and avoiding eating foods from animals could help eliminate zoonotic viruses. The short answer is no – it won’t make a difference. Although viruses can spread through unsafe or under-cooked food, as you can see there are a number of other modes of transmission, including water, insect vectors, and other forms of direct and indirect contact. Therefore, adhering to a strictly vegan diet and avoiding foods from animals would have little impact on the spread of zoonotic viruses. How Do We Know COVID-19 Is A Zoonotic Virus?A question which commonly comes up in relation to COVD-19 is “how do we know where it came from?” Since it first emerged in Wuhan, China, researchers at have identified the virus has most likely originated in bats, an article from the journal Pathogens and Disease stated in February 2020. Other coronaviruses you might have heard of, including SARS and MERS, also originated in bats. Does Zoonotic Bacteria Exist As Well?Just as Zoonotic viruses originate in animals and can be transferred to humans, there are also bacteria which can original in animals and cause illness in humans. Some common examples of infections caused by zoonotic bacteria which you are probably familiar with include:
Book An Appointment With Annex NaturopathicIf you are worried you have come in contact with COVID-19, please note that the Ontario government has released a self-assessment to help you assess your symptoms and determine next steps for care and possible testing. Otherwise, Annex Naturopathic is here to help. Although our offices are currently closed due to COVID-19 restrictions, we are still essential care through phone or virtual consults. Contact us today to book an appointment. The post Benefits (And Risks) Of Activated Charcoal appeared first on Annex Naturopathic Clinic. If you’ve heard of activated charcoal, it’s likely you’re familiar with its medical use in treating drug overdoses. Or maybe you’ve seen the latest trend of adding it to any and every type of food – it’s been added to everything from ice cream to pizza crusts. But did you know it can be used to improve cardiovascular health? Or as a water filter? Keep reading to learn more about activate charcoal, its uses, and whether or not eating that black ice cream cone is a good idea. What Is Activated Charcoal?Charcoal is a by-product of heating wood to very high temperatures. Activated charcoal is made by processing charcoal at extremely high temperatures. This results in charcoal which is extremely porous, compared to regular charcoal. How Does It Work?Because activated charcoal is more porous than regular charcoal, it attracts molecules such as toxins in the gut. The body does not absorb activated charcoal, which means it’s then expelled as waste, taking the toxins it binds to with it. Uses For Activated CharcoalThere are a number of practical uses for activated charcoal. Let’s have a look at some common ones. 1. As A Filter For WaterIt’s very possible you have activated charcoal in your home at this very moment. It’s used many in-home water filters, such as Brita. As water passes through the filter, activated charcoal absorbs chemicals in the water, making it safer and taste better. This is why these filters need to be changed on a regular basis, as they lose their ability to absorb chemicals over time. It’s important to note, though, that these filters don’t catch everything. Notably, if there are pathogens in your water, your countertop filter won’t help. Fortunately, that’s a rare occurrence in Toronto, but if you live in an area where a boil-water advisory is in effect, an activated charcoal filter is no substitute. 2. As A Treatment For Poison Or OverdoseDue to its effectiveness in absorbing toxins, activated charcoal is an effective way to provide treatment for drug overdoses. A 2016 study in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology noted that activated charcoal can be used to absorb drugs in the gastrointestinal system, reducing their absorption by the body. When used within 5 minutes of an overdose it can reduce the absorption of a drug by up to 74%. In 2015, The American Journal of Emergency Medicine reviewed records for over 302 months’ worth of overdose cases. The study looked at the implications of administering activated charcoal to patients in the field, before arriving at the hospital in regards to safety and timing of arrival at the hospital, and it to be safe, and to not significantly impact travel time to the hospital. 3. May Help Lower CholesterolA study in the European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found the use of activated charcoal reduced blood cholesterol levels in study participants with high cholesterol in ranges between 23% and 41%, dependent on the dose. The reason for this reduction is believed to be because activated charcoal binds to acids containing cholesterol and prevents them from being absorbed by the body. In addition to lowering the levels of LDL (aka “bad” cholesterol) in the body, activated charcoal was also found to assist in increasing levels of HDL (“good”) cholesterol. 4. May Help Promote Kidney HealthThe role of the kidney in the body is to filter your blood and remove waste and water, in order to produce urine. Activated charcoal may assist kidney function by reducing the number of waste products they need to filter. In 2014, the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology showed use of activated charcoal in rats and found it to be effective to remove toxins from the kidneys. This study recommends further study on this use of activated charcoal in humans, though. 5. May Help Manage TrimethylaminuriaTrimethylaminuria, also known as “fish odor syndrome” is a rare condition in which the body is unable to break down certain compounds which have a fishy smell to them. In most healthy people, the chemical trimethylamine (TMA) which has a fishy smell, is broken down and excreted through urine. Individuals with trimethylaminuria lack the enzyme required to break down TMA, and it can accumulate in breath, sweat, and urine. Activated charcoal may help bind to TMA and help to remove it from the body, however, studies in this regard are limited at this time. Risks Of Activated Charcoal?Although generally considered safe, there are some risks associated with taking activated charcoal which you should be aware of. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, constipation and black stool. When used to prevent an overdose, there is a risk of it travelling to the lungs, if the individual it’s being given to is not fully conscious – because of this, it should only be given to people who are fully awake. Also, its super absorbent properties can cause problems for people on some medications, as it can absorb them and make them less effective. Because of this, some people recommend against eating foods containing it, and some jurisdictions have banned its use in in food altogether. Book An Appointment At Annex NaturopathicDo you think you could benefit from using activated charcoal? Or are you wondering if it might interact with other medications you’re taking? Do you want to learn more about how it could help you with your cholesterol levels, or maintaining a healthy kidney? At Annex Naturopathic one of our naturopathic doctors can help you to determine if activated charcoal, or perhaps another natural solution, is right for you. Contact us today to set up an appointment. The post Why Are People With Comorbidities At Greater Risk Of COVID-19? appeared first on Annex Naturopathic Clinic. As the COVID-19 quarantine continues, you might find yourself hearing some words you never have before. One of these is “comorbidities”. The media claims that people with comorbidities are at greater risk of COVID-19, and this seems to be true. But what are comorbidities? And why are people with comorbidities at greater risk when it comes to COVID-19? Keep reading – we’ll talk more about it. First Off, A Few CaviatsAnnex Naturopathic is a naturopathic health and wellness clinic, so the ideas expressed on its blog are from a naturopathic perspective. And from a naturopathic perspective, there is currently no known cure or treatment for COVID-19. As well, everything you read on this article is true as of the time of writing, but because our understanding of the situation is changing so rapidly, this information may be out of date later. We’re doing our best to keep up with the changes in the COVID-19 situation, but for when it comes to treatment and prevention solutions, your best bet is to follow the World Health Organization, or the Government of Canada, both of whom are maintaining regularly updated pages on the subject. The purpose of this article is to help you better understand some of the language surrounding COVID-19. That will, hopefully, allay at least a little bit of the anxiety you might be feeling about what’s going on. So, with that out of the way, let’s get into the article. What Is A Comorbidity?In simple terms, a comorbidity is the presence of one or more health conditions occurring alongside another condition. It doesn’t necessarily mean the conditions are related. For example, someone might be diagnosed with both an autoimmune thyroid disorder and scoliosis. This means these two conditions are comorbid with each other. In other cases, comorbidities may be related, or they may come from similar causes. For example, 75% of people with diabetes also have hypertension. As well, people with just hypertension alone often show signs of insulin resistance. Another example is that those with mental health issues are more likely to have issues with substance abuse. In the mental health world, a comorbidity might include multiple diagnoses, but it may also include a case where a single diagnosis can’t account for all symptoms. Why Are Comorbidities Important?There are a number of reasons why comorbidities are important. Let’s take a look at some of them. 1. They Help Guide Research & TheoryIf we understand that certain conditions are more commonly present alongside other conditions, it can help us understand their causes. It could be that there’s a causal relationship – for example, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis causes hypothyroidism. It could be that common factors put you at risk for both disorders – for example, smoking puts you at risk of several different health disorders, including lung cancer, stroke, COPD, heart disease, and more. Or, it could be that they aren’t related. Regardless of the case, gaining a better understanding of these relationships helps researchers come up with new and innovative treatment methods. 2. They Help Guide Treatment PlansBeing aware of comorbidities helps health care professionals know how to allocate treatment resources, and when to keep a closer watch for issues. If you’re diagnosed with diabetes, for example, your doctor will likely be keeping an eye on your blood pressure, and if you’re struggling with substance abuse, they may suggest a mental health screening. As well, it helps to know what to suggest as far as treatment plans go. For example, St. John’s wort has been heavily studied as a treatment for depression. But if you have heart disease, you may be on blood thinners at some point if you aren’t already. And because St. John’s wort can interfere with blood thinners, it may be wise to look at something else as a depression treatment. 3. They Help With Preventative MedicineBefore, we talked about the fact that diabetes is commonly comorbid with hypertension. So that being the case, if you receive a diagnosis of either, it’s a good idea to consider some diet and lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of developing the other. This is where naturopathic medicine can be exceptionally effective. Why Are Comorbidities A Problem With COVID-19?A study published earlier this year in the European Respiratory Journal looked at 1590 different cases of COVID-19 from China. Of those, 399 of them – about 25% – had some sort of comorbidity, the most common of which were hypertension and diabetes. They concluded that patients with any comorbidity were at greater risk of poorer outcomes, and the more comorbidities found, the poorer the results. The answer to this question isn’t entirely understood yet, as frustrating as that is. However, research is ongoing into why that’s the case. Book An Appointment With Annex NaturopathicHave you been diagnosed with an illness? Are you concerned about the other problems you may face as a result? If so, book an appointment with Annex Naturopathic today. We’ll help you understand your risk factors, and offer a treatment plan designed to minimize those risks. Book your appointment at Annex Naturopathic today. The post COVID-19: What Is It, Where Did It Come From, And How To Protect Yourself appeared first on Annex Naturopathic Clinic. We’re living in unusual times. The COVID-19 health crisis is impacting every facet of our lives, shutting down many businesses, and stopping many of us from even leaving the house. Here at Annex Naturopathic, our downtown Toronto naturopathic clinic is closed for in-person treatments, but we’re still available for consultations over the phone or through video conferencing for essential visits. And in the meantime, we’re still here for you online. Today, let’s take a look at the COVID-19 illness – what it is, where it comes from, and what you should do to protect yourself against it. But First, Let’s Get Some Things ClearBefore we start, I want to make one thing very clear – at the time of this writing, there is no known treatment for COVID-19. Not through naturopathy, and not through conventional medicine. Naturopathic doctors are also not able to test for COVID-19. It’s not our intent to talk about cures, treatments, or anything related in this article. Rather, we’re going to look at some general facts about COVID-19, and the current understanding of it. Speaking of which, it’s important to note that our understanding of this virus is only just beginning. As a result, there may be updates in symptoms, effects, and other information as the scientific community further explores this condition. What you read in this article is true as of the time of writing, but for more up-to-date information, it’s a good idea to monitor the updates posted on the World Health Organization’s website. You’ll find links to other pages on our site in this article as well – these are general purpose pages designed to understand a general condition, and should not be taken as implication that naturopathic medicine in general, or any practitioner at Annex Naturopathic in particular, can offer treatment for COVID-19 or its symptoms. Now, with that out of the way, let’s take a look at COVID-19. What Is COVID-19?You might have heard people talking about COVID-19, and people talking about coronavirus. They’re often used interchangeably, but they’re not quite the same thing. Coronavirus refers to a family of viruses that cause diseases in humans and other mammals, and birds. SARS-CoV-2 is a specific strain of coronavirus, which causes the illness COVID-19 in humans. Where Did The Name Coronavirus Come From?A coronavirus cell has a corona – or crown – of proteins surrounding it. The reason why you may hear people refer to this crisis as the “novel coronavirus” is because it’s a novel disease – as in, a new one. And while we’re on the topic of names, COVID-19 is actually an abbreviation – it stands for COronaVIrus Disease of 2019, since it was first discovered in 2019. What Are Other Examples Of Coronaviruses?There are four different genuses of coronavirus – alpha, beta, gamma, and delta. Alpha and beta only infect mammals – including humans, gamma mostly infects birds, and delta can infect both birds and mammals. It’s the beta family that SARS-CoV-2 belongs to. Some of the more famous examples of illnesses which can be caused by coronaviruses include: • SARS – Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome As you can see above, coronaviruses can cause illnesses which are generally considered minor in otherwise healthy people. However, COVID-19 is a different story. What’s Different About COVID-19?SARS-CoV-2 is a new zoonotic virus which has not previously been found in humans. Zoonotic viruses are a result of 2 or more viruses from different species mutating together and finding a new host to infect. In the case of COVID-19, humans were the incubator for this new strain of virus. Lucky us. But even if humans are the incubator, why is COVID-19 so particularly bad? The reason has to do with its virulence. A pathogen’s virulence refers to its ability to infect and harm its host. Because COVID-19 has such a high virulence, it’s considered more dangerous. What Are The Symptoms Of A COVID-19 Infection?The typical symptoms of COVID-19 are very similar to the common cold or flu and mainly present as a respiratory infection. As the virus needs to incubate in the host for a number of days, you may not experience symptoms for up to 14 days after exposure. This makes this virus very difficult to contain as unaware infected people are likely continue to walk around and travel during this time. This is why you’ve seen many countries around the world, including Canada, adopt policies around social distancing and self-quarantining. In China and Italy, the countries hit most heavily with infection in the earlier days of this pandemic, social distancing policies have led to a decrease in new cases. As of this writing, the currently known symptoms are listed below: The biggest threat of COVID-19 is the development of pneumonia. This makes COVID-19 particularly problematic to those who do not have strong immune systems (elderly, infants, pregnancy), those who are immunocompromised due to specific health conditions, or those on immunosuppressant drugs. How Does Your Immune System Work?Most of us understand the basic idea of our immune system – it’s the part of your body that fights off pathogens and keeps you from getting sick. However, there’s more to it than that. The immune system is dynamic, complex, and made up of many organs that keep us strong, healthy and able to efficiently fight off invading pathogens. A common misconception about the immune system is that if it’s strong enough, it can stop us from getting infections altogether. This is not true; if you encounter a strong enough pathogen, or if the pathogen is able to break through the protective barriers, your body will become infected and will still need to go through the necessary steps to get rid of the infection. By building your immune system, you’re improving your ability to battle and recover from infection. How Do You Protect Yourself Against COVID-19?As we mentioned above, there is currently no known treatment or vaccine for COVID-19. There are solutions to help you build your immune system in general, but at this time there’s no evidence that will help protect you against COVID-19. The focus is geared towards improving our chances for recovering from COVID-19 if we were to contract it, and ensuring you’re following the appropriate measures to reduce the spread of the virus. This includes: 1. Washing your hands thoroughly and frequently The City of Toronto is maintaining its own page on COVID-19 and how life in the city is being affected as well. Book An Appointment At Annex NaturopathicThere is no cure, supplement, herb or drug that is specific for COVID-19 at this point. The treatments used from a naturopathic approach are all focused on improving immune health, as well as providing herbs/nutrients that have broad anti-viral activity. By strengthening the immune system you are creating a strong environment for your body to recover and fight the virus efficiently, not just battle symptoms. If you’d like to speak with one of our naturopathic doctors, reach out today to book an appointment. Everywhere you look, there are health and fitness “experts” telling you what to eat, how to eat, how much to eat, and when to eat. Keto. Paleo. Vegan. Mediterranean. Raw food. All of these diets have their pros and cons, and while some work great for one person, they might not be ideal for the next. If you need assistance in sorting out all of these options, consider having a naturopathic consultation to discuss which diet or eating plan may be beneficial to you. Today we are going to have a closer look at intermittent fasting - not another diet, per se, but a pattern which tells you when to eat and when to abstain from eating. Keep reading to learn more about this way of eating, and the benefits it may offer. What Is Intermittent Fasting?Strictly speaking, intermittent fasting is an eating plan where you cycle between periods of eating and periods of fasting. Common methods include:
The 16/8 method is the most popular, as most people find it to be easier to stick to, and more sustainable in the long term. What Happens When You Fast?When you go for an extended period of time, there are a number of changes which occur in the body. After approximately eight hours of fasting, the body has used its glucose stores and starts to burn fat instead. Once the body runs out of fat as a source of energy, it will begin to breakdown muscle tissue, which, obviously, is something you want to avoid. Health Benefits Of Intermittent FastingThere are a number of benefits of fasting, which can include:
Keep reading for a more detailed look at some of these benefits. 1. May Help You Lose WeightA huge reason people start following new diets or eating plans is the goal to lose a few pounds. Whether it’s for health reasons, to look better in a bathing suit, or a little bit of both, wanting to lose a few pounds is very common. A 2000 study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found during an 84-hour starvation period, resting energy expenditure (also known as resting metabolic rate) increased significantly. Furthermore, by the very nature of restricting the times during which you eat, generally, the total calorie intake is lowered, so long as you don’t go overboard and binge during the times which you’re eating. This combination of increased metabolism and fewer calories consumed can be a powerful combination for weight loss. 2. May Lower Your Risk Of Type 2 DiabetesIntermittent fasting has been shown to reduce insulin resistance, lower blood sugar levels, and offer protection against the development of type-2 diabetes. Studies on humans have shown that during fasting insulin may be reduced anywhere from 20 to 31 percent. Furthermore, the effect of fasting on blood sugar is a reduction of three to six percent. Both of these factors may lower your risk of developing type-2 diabetes. 3. May Be Good For Your BrainThere have been a few studies which have shown a positive impact of intermittent fasting on the brain. In 2018, a study in the journal Nature Reviews, Neuroscience showed how cycles of fasting, combined with periods of eating, can optimize brain function. This study showed benefits such as promoting neuroplasticity and resistance to brain injury and disease. Another study, in Experimental Biology and Medicine showed intermittent fasting may be effective in protecting against cognitive deterioration as one ages. 4. May Help Reduce InflammationIn 2007, a study in the Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism studied healthy volunteers who were fasting for the religious holiday of Ramadan and looked at the effects of fasting on inflammation. This study found in participants who were fasting, inflammation levels were decreased. 5. May Increase Your LifespanA study in the journal Gerontology found intermittent fasting to have an impressive impact on the lifespan of rats, where those who were fed a fasting diet – eating only every other day – lived 83% longer than rats not on a fasting diet. This said it is important to note that this research is still in its early stages and more research needs to be done, however even at this early stage, there is promise. Is Intermittent Fasting Safe?Just like any diet or eating plan, intermittent fasting is not without its side effects. The main one being hunger - however, generally, this is only temporary, as your body adjusts to a new eating schedule. Additionally, there is some research to show that intermittent fasting may not have as many benefits for women as it does for men. Studies in rats have shown it to cause female rats to miss menstrual cycles, and make them infertile. Anecdotally, skipped periods have been reported by women attempting intermittent fasting, only to have them return when they resumed their normal eating patterns. If you have any of the following conditions, you should discuss with your doctor before trying intermittent fasting, or any other eating plan:
Overall, though, intermittent fasting is considered to be safe, if you’re otherwise in good health. Book An Appointment With Annex NaturopathicTrying to decide on a diet or eating plan to fit your lifestyle? Perhaps you’re trying to lose weight or maybe gain muscle. Maybe you just want to be sure you are eating in a way to best fuel your body to handle everyday tasks. Annex Naturopathic can help. We will perform a comprehensive health assessment, which looks at your medical history, lifestyle habits, and diet. From there, one of our naturopathic doctors in Toronto will work with you to offer naturopathic solutions to any targeted issues you want to address, or just give you ways to stay healthier overall. Contact Annex Naturopathic today. If you’re curious to learn more about this subject or would like to consult with one of our NDs feel free to book a visit or contact us. Yours in Health, Dr. Marnie Luck, N.D Annex Naturopathic Clinic Annex Naturopathic Clinic is a clinic in Toronto that offers integrative healthcare solutions from Drs. Marnie Luck, ND, and Tanya Lee, ND Get more ways about health, wellness, naturopathy, and medicine at: naturopathic clinic in Toronto |
Annex Naturopathic Clinic is a clinic in downtown Toronto that offers integrative healthcare solutions. Toronto naturopathic practitioners Dr. Marnie Luck, ND and Dr. Tanya Lee, ND offer a variety of treatment plans using a range of modalities individualized to each patient which can complement conventional health care.
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