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by author Lucretia Schanfarber Photos by Carmen Schmid
Andrew Weil is definitely changing the face of medicine. His familiar, white-bearded face has beamed at us from the cover of TIME magazine twice in the last nine years, most recently last October when his new book, Healthy Aging (Knopf, 2005) hit the stands.
When asked about his sudden popularity and fame, Dr. Weil chuckled a bit. “Sudden? I have basically been delivering the same message for more than 30 years. The only thing that’s changed is that a lot more people are listening now.” Are they ever! Millions of people are listening, watching, reading, and surfing all things Weil. He has become the international poster boy for a new brand of medicine known as integrative medicine.
Delivering the Message
Dr. Weil enters millions of homes through popular TV programs such as Oprah, Larry King Live, and PBS stations across the US. Of course, his books are everywhere. His last five books hit number one on the New York Times bestseller list, and each book contained a wealth of well-written, practical holistic health advice for living better and longer.
While integrative medicine is not at all a new concept to alive magazine and its readers, it is nothing short of a revelation to millions of other North Americans who are embracing Dr. Weil and his call for change. His smooth delivery, plain language, and contagious laughter have opened the hearts and minds of readers and listeners to his simply stated principles for improved health and well-being. People are listening to his message, and they are changing.
But convincing and changing the medical establishment is an entirely different matter.
Changing the Way Medicine is Taught
Dr. Weil is an outspoken critic of the way conventional or allopathic medicine is practised and taught. He’s spent plenty of time in medical schools on both sides of the desk, as student and as teacher. A Harvard Medical School graduate (1968), he has long endured narrow-mindedness and what he calls the “incredible deficiency in nutritional education” that characterizes medical academia. “I’ve been teaching medical school for more than 25 years. Almost everything relevant to healing is not there, and most everything that is there is not relevant to healing.”
So he decided to change the curriculum. Dr. Weil moved to Arizona in 1975 and started practising integrative medicine. He began lecturing at the University of Arizona Medical School in 1977 and joined the faculty in 1983. Eleven years later, in 1994, he founded the Foundation for Integrative Medicine in Tucson, Arizona and became the Director of the Program in Integrative Medicine (PIM) at the University of Arizona.
Changing the Way Medicine is Practised
Dr. Weil has long been an advocate for the integration of so-called complementary and alternative healing methods with orthodox medical practices. He bemoans the state of orthodox medicine today. “In our enthusiasm for technology, I think we turned our backs on all of the simple, low tech, inexpensive methods of intervening in disease and maintaining health that were used by previous generations and that are very much part of ethnic medicine and various cultures around the world.”
Integrative medicine enhances quality of life by using minimally invasive, nontoxic treatments such as dietary modifications, herbal and nutritional therapies, mind-body interaction, energetic medicine, acupuncture, massage and body work, behaviour modification, and traditional healing methods. And it’s less costly than conventional medicine, in the long run.
“The drugs we have come to rely on are killing 100,000 people a year in hospitals. That, to me, is unacceptable,” Dr Weil recently told a rapt audience. “I think if integrative medicine did nothing more than reduce that number, it would be very worth supporting. The medical system simply cannot afford not to change to a more preventive, integrated approach.”
One way Dr. Weil is currently changing our approach to health is by changing our attitudes toward aging.
Changing the Way We Feel About Aging
Population experts say that we are about to experience a demographic boom of old people. While many other cultures in the world revere and respect elders, North American baby boomers have become obsessed with trying to mask the manifestations of aging.
Source: alive #282, April 2006
New Millennium, New Healing Attitude
After 22 years of general medical practice and over 2,000 letters from readers requesting advice, I have observed some general principles that determine whether or not an individual is capable of controlling his or her heal.
After 22 years of general medical practice and over 2,000 letters from readers requesting advice, I have observed some general principles that determine whether or not an individual is capable of controlling his or her heal.
Herbal Medicine in the New Millennium
As we embark upon the new millennium, herbal medicines are everywhere. Herbs one could rarely find in health food stores 10 years ago now line their shelves. It's a sign of the times.
As we embark upon the new millennium, herbal medicines are everywhere. Herbs one could rarely find in health food stores 10 years ago now line their shelves. It's a sign of the times.
Beauty Supplements That May Surprise You!
Beauty is linked to health. And while everything you take into your body will have an effect on your outward appearance, some foods and supplements have more influence than others.
Beauty is linked to health. And while everything you take into your body will have an effect on your outward appearance, some foods and supplements have more influence than others.
Selenium
Imagine an antioxidant with the power to fight aging, halt heart disease, cut cancer rates, boost immunity, and speed healing. That's selenium, one of the most important disease-fighting nutrient.
Imagine an antioxidant with the power to fight aging, halt heart disease, cut cancer rates, boost immunity, and speed healing. That's selenium, one of the most important disease-fighting nutrient.
What is Environmental Medicine?
First of all, environmental medicine does not reject modern medicine. In certain acute and traumatic situations, head for your nearest hospital. Be grateful for the research and technological progress which has allowed patients to survive incidents that would have meant certain death at one time in history.
First of all, environmental medicine does not reject modern medicine. In certain acute and traumatic situations, head for your nearest hospital. Be grateful for the research and technological progress which has allowed patients to survive incidents that would have meant certain death at one time in history.
The Vitality Factor!
Natural ways to increase energy levels Are you grateful that you do not have a major disease, but frustrated that you lack vibrant energy? This energy, or vitality as I like to call it, is simply physical, m.
Natural ways to increase energy levels Are you grateful that you do not have a major disease, but frustrated that you lack vibrant energy? This energy, or vitality as I like to call it, is simply physical, m.
Bone Up on Bone Disease
In North America, osteoporosis continues to be the single most common bone disease, with 40 per cent of all white women developing it in their lifetime. Yet in several other countries throughout the world, almost no one develops it.
In North America, osteoporosis continues to be the single most common bone disease, with 40 per cent of all white women developing it in their lifetime. Yet in several other countries throughout the world, almost no one develops it.
Wild Garlic Simply The Best
Scientific Studies Reveal More Facts The healing power of common garlic (Allium sativum) is well-known by many.
Scientific Studies Reveal More Facts The healing power of common garlic (Allium sativum) is well-known by many.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are more than an essential ingredient for spaghetti sauce. They contain some of the top nutrients that support the immune system. They have been used for everything from the common cold to cancer, HIV and tuberculosis..
Mushrooms are more than an essential ingredient for spaghetti sauce. They contain some of the top nutrients that support the immune system. They have been used for everything from the common cold to cancer, HIV and tuberculosis..
Gardening With Garlic
With the gardening season coming to a close, avid gardeners are rushing to get in that last bit of planting--bulbs! A marvelous bulb that is often overlooked for fall planting is garlic. Garlic is a positively versatile herb.
With the gardening season coming to a close, avid gardeners are rushing to get in that last bit of planting--bulbs! A marvelous bulb that is often overlooked for fall planting is garlic. Garlic is a positively versatile herb.
Wild Garlic
Wild garlic (Allium ursinum), used for centuries to treat various ailments, is one of the most versatile plants on earth. Unfortunately it had been forgotten until 1988, when new research was done. The results were amazing and even caught scientists by surprise: wild garlic is superior to common garlic (Allium sativum)..
Wild garlic (Allium ursinum), used for centuries to treat various ailments, is one of the most versatile plants on earth. Unfortunately it had been forgotten until 1988, when new research was done. The results were amazing and even caught scientists by surprise: wild garlic is superior to common garlic (Allium sativum)..
Maitake Mushroom
Maitake (Grifola frondosa) is the latest mycologic supersta.
Maitake (Grifola frondosa) is the latest mycologic supersta.
Environmental Illness Is Not A Life Sentence
Imagine a world where your dreams are manifesting before your eyes; a world full of hope and promise. Imagine all this coming to a sudden, crippling halt and down into the cocoon you go . . .
Imagine a world where your dreams are manifesting before your eyes; a world full of hope and promise. Imagine all this coming to a sudden, crippling halt and down into the cocoon you go . . .
Copper Overload
I would like to share with the readers of alive my story about a hidden illness that most doctors don't recognize. I feel this story could help a great many people.
I would like to share with the readers of alive my story about a hidden illness that most doctors don't recognize. I feel this story could help a great many people.
Millennial Medicine
Conventional medicine can learn from alternative medicine how to "gentle" its approach by focusing on the patient's inherent capacity for self-healin.
Conventional medicine can learn from alternative medicine how to "gentle" its approach by focusing on the patient's inherent capacity for self-healin.
Herbs for Your Heart
It's easy to forget about the heart, as it does its job automaticall.
It's easy to forget about the heart, as it does its job automaticall.
Smooth Out Your Life
So simple yet so delicious and good for you! Shakes and smoothies can be used as a breakfast substitute, meal replacement or as a refreshing "pick-me-up" any time of day.
So simple yet so delicious and good for you! Shakes and smoothies can be used as a breakfast substitute, meal replacement or as a refreshing "pick-me-up" any time of day.
Magnetic Power Heals
We are magnetic beings-magnetic energy affects everyone's health. From the smallest particles to the largest celestial bodies, positive and negative electrical units called protons and electrons are fundamental constituents that establish and maintain the empty space that dominates all matter.
We are magnetic beings-magnetic energy affects everyone's health. From the smallest particles to the largest celestial bodies, positive and negative electrical units called protons and electrons are fundamental constituents that establish and maintain the empty space that dominates all matter.
Vitamin C No Reason to be Scared
"Do not let either the medical authorities or the politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts are, and make your own decisions about how to live a happy life and how to live in a better world." --Linus Pauling High doses of vitamin C could increase the risk of cancer, scientists warn today.
"Do not let either the medical authorities or the politicians mislead you. Find out what the facts are, and make your own decisions about how to live a happy life and how to live in a better world." --Linus Pauling High doses of vitamin C could increase the risk of cancer, scientists warn today.
Vitamin C
If we are serious about slaying the current Goliath "sickness industry," as opposed to the "health industry," we must arm ourselves with the truth about vitamin C.
If we are serious about slaying the current Goliath "sickness industry," as opposed to the "health industry," we must arm ourselves with the truth about vitamin C.
Anti-Cancer Antioxidants
Imagine the cells in your body turning brown just like an apple does when exposed to the oxygen in the air.
Imagine the cells in your body turning brown just like an apple does when exposed to the oxygen in the air.
Marvellous Medicinal Mushrooms
They grow on forest floors, often hidden and discrete, but now researchers are unearthing their powerful healing properties. Ewww. Fungi. That's what many people are likely to say.
They grow on forest floors, often hidden and discrete, but now researchers are unearthing their powerful healing properties. Ewww. Fungi. That's what many people are likely to say.
State-Of-The-Art Health Care
The "functional medicine practised at the CCFM, explains D.
The "functional medicine practised at the CCFM, explains D.
Achieving True Health
Illness, not health, is quickly becoming the norm in our country. Statistics show that childhood, chronic degenerative, autoimmune and malignant diseases are steadily increasing to epidemic proportions. So the question that everyone is asking is: "Why are we so sick?"
Illness, not health, is quickly becoming the norm in our country. Statistics show that childhood, chronic degenerative, autoimmune and malignant diseases are steadily increasing to epidemic proportions. So the question that everyone is asking is: "Why are we so sick?"
Garlic
Health benefits of the worlds#1-selling herb confirmed by science.
Health benefits of the worlds#1-selling herb confirmed by science.
Spice Up Winter Festivities
Winter holidays can be fun and relaxing-getting together with friends and family to eat, drink, and make merry. Aromatic botanicals are traditionally a significant part of winter celebrations, from aromatic mulled wine to spicy gingerbread cookies.
Winter holidays can be fun and relaxing-getting together with friends and family to eat, drink, and make merry. Aromatic botanicals are traditionally a significant part of winter celebrations, from aromatic mulled wine to spicy gingerbread cookies.
Ginseng for Energy and Longevity
Whenever I hear the word "ginseng," it evokes images of strength, vitality, dynamism and manhood. We relate ginseng to physical resistance and energy, and especially to wellness and longevity.
Whenever I hear the word "ginseng," it evokes images of strength, vitality, dynamism and manhood. We relate ginseng to physical resistance and energy, and especially to wellness and longevity.
Are You Chronically Dehydrated?
It's that time of year again-when people make New Year's resolutions about eating healthier. Reading more books. Starting a garden. Jogging around the block every day.
It's that time of year again-when people make New Year's resolutions about eating healthier. Reading more books. Starting a garden. Jogging around the block every day.
3 Key Supplements for a Healthy Heart
Today, your heart will beat at least 100,000 times, pumping 2,500 to 5,000 gallons of blood through the 60,000 miles of blood vessels within your body. Amazing, but tru.
Today, your heart will beat at least 100,000 times, pumping 2,500 to 5,000 gallons of blood through the 60,000 miles of blood vessels within your body. Amazing, but tru.
The Battle for Your Bones
As more and more North Americans are affected by osteoporosis, the disease has received increased attention by media and medical researcher.
As more and more North Americans are affected by osteoporosis, the disease has received increased attention by media and medical researcher.
Malnutrition
The importance of nutrition has a lifecycle as long as human existence. It affects all ages and all the world's population.
The importance of nutrition has a lifecycle as long as human existence. It affects all ages and all the world's population.
Strong Bones for Life
If you've been watching the news, you've probably seen the grim statistics on osteoporosis, a heartbreaking condition that forces more people into nursing homes than almost any other.
If you've been watching the news, you've probably seen the grim statistics on osteoporosis, a heartbreaking condition that forces more people into nursing homes than almost any other.
Vitamins Vindicated
"Breast cancer study hints at harmful effects of vitamins," proclaimed the headline of a recent Vancouver Sun article that some feel could be extremely misleading. The story, which appeared Dec.
"Breast cancer study hints at harmful effects of vitamins," proclaimed the headline of a recent Vancouver Sun article that some feel could be extremely misleading. The story, which appeared Dec.
Soothe Inflammation
Inflammation is associated with a wide range of chronic and acute diseases.
Inflammation is associated with a wide range of chronic and acute diseases.
Practical Prevention Plan
Adding a fish oil supplement to your daily routine provides extra insurance that you are getting sufficient levels of important oils.
Adding a fish oil supplement to your daily routine provides extra insurance that you are getting sufficient levels of important oils.
Advances in Cancer Care
Complementary cancer treatment brings new hope to patients at the Vancouverclinic of Dr. Jim Chan, who uses the best of orthodox and alternativemedicine to achieve impressive results.
Complementary cancer treatment brings new hope to patients at the Vancouverclinic of Dr. Jim Chan, who uses the best of orthodox and alternativemedicine to achieve impressive results.
Dong Quai
This herb is commonly used in the Orient to regulate menstrual function and tone female organs Health claims Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is one of the world's best menopause and peri-menopause herbs..
This herb is commonly used in the Orient to regulate menstrual function and tone female organs Health claims Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is one of the world's best menopause and peri-menopause herbs..
Calcium
Our bodies need calcium more than any other mineral to ensure bone and muscle health. What Is a Nutrient? Nutrients are substances we must eat for good health..
Our bodies need calcium more than any other mineral to ensure bone and muscle health. What Is a Nutrient? Nutrients are substances we must eat for good health..
Developing Your Personal Nutrient Plan
Each of us would do well to become more educated about our body and then develop a personalized vitamin-mineral program to suit.
Each of us would do well to become more educated about our body and then develop a personalized vitamin-mineral program to suit.
Green Tea Time
Did you know that sipping a cup of green tea can help fight cancer, prevent gum disease, slow the aging process and aid fat loss?
Did you know that sipping a cup of green tea can help fight cancer, prevent gum disease, slow the aging process and aid fat loss?
Computer Regulation Thermography
Today, we are in a position to use this ancient experience with.
Today, we are in a position to use this ancient experience with.
Calcium
As women reach their early 50s, their bodies undergo many changes, including the beginning stages of menopause and a decrease in bone mass of 3 percent or more per year that can ultimately result in osteoporosis.
As women reach their early 50s, their bodies undergo many changes, including the beginning stages of menopause and a decrease in bone mass of 3 percent or more per year that can ultimately result in osteoporosis.
Multivitamins and Minerals
Multivitamins and minerals are basic components of a good nutritional program. Dietary surveys have consistently shown that we simply do not get enough of the basic elements in our diet despite having an overabundance of nutrient-rich foods available to us.
Multivitamins and minerals are basic components of a good nutritional program. Dietary surveys have consistently shown that we simply do not get enough of the basic elements in our diet despite having an overabundance of nutrient-rich foods available to us.
Beta-carotene
Scientists have confirmed that beta-carotene acts primarily as a fat-soluble antioxidant protecting our cells from the damaging effects of free radicals.
Scientists have confirmed that beta-carotene acts primarily as a fat-soluble antioxidant protecting our cells from the damaging effects of free radicals.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is the first herb that most herbalists think about when working on liver problem.
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) is the first herb that most herbalists think about when working on liver problem.
food/nutrition
Keep your eye on lutein Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness in this country, and every year more than 244,000 Canadians undergo cataract surgery. Spanish researchers have found a more natural, less invasive solution for this age-related condition: lutein, a phytonutrient found in spinach and other leafy greens.
Keep your eye on lutein Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness in this country, and every year more than 244,000 Canadians undergo cataract surgery. Spanish researchers have found a more natural, less invasive solution for this age-related condition: lutein, a phytonutrient found in spinach and other leafy greens.
Natural Cancer Care
The importance of high-quality nutrition in the battle against cancer cannot be overstate.
The importance of high-quality nutrition in the battle against cancer cannot be overstate.
Looking at Lycopene
Ongoing research indicates that lycopene consumption may inhibit a variety of commonly occurring cancers as well as offer benefits to those with cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and some eye disorders.
Ongoing research indicates that lycopene consumption may inhibit a variety of commonly occurring cancers as well as offer benefits to those with cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and some eye disorders.
Maitake
In Japanese, maitake (Grifola frondosa) means "dancing mushroo.
In Japanese, maitake (Grifola frondosa) means "dancing mushroo.
Colourful Carotenes
Carotenes are a highly coloured (red to yellow) group of fat-soluble plant pigments. A great deal of scientific investigation has shown that dietary intake of carotenes offers protection against developing certain cancers and other diseases..
Carotenes are a highly coloured (red to yellow) group of fat-soluble plant pigments. A great deal of scientific investigation has shown that dietary intake of carotenes offers protection against developing certain cancers and other diseases..
Aged Garlic Extract
Recognized in folk medicine for over 5,000 years and confirmed by modern science, garlic has a wide range of health effects.
Recognized in folk medicine for over 5,000 years and confirmed by modern science, garlic has a wide range of health effects.
Ginseng
A woman came into my clinic the other day and said she wanted the best ginseng for her husban.
A woman came into my clinic the other day and said she wanted the best ginseng for her husban.
Selenium
Adding this nutritional supplement to a normal diet could prevent cancer, heart disease, and strokes. Selenium is an essential trace element for health.
Adding this nutritional supplement to a normal diet could prevent cancer, heart disease, and strokes. Selenium is an essential trace element for health.
The Complexities of Vitamin E
Vitamin E was first discovered in 1922 at the University of California in Berkeley, when research physician Dr. Herbert M. Evans and his assistant, Katherine S. Bishop, found that rats reared on a rancid lard diet failed to reproduce.
Vitamin E was first discovered in 1922 at the University of California in Berkeley, when research physician Dr. Herbert M. Evans and his assistant, Katherine S. Bishop, found that rats reared on a rancid lard diet failed to reproduce.
Memories Are Made of These
Do you ever lose your glasses or misplace your keys? Is remembering names a problem? Have you ever lost your train of thought in the middle of a sentence or walked into a room, then wondered why you were there? We all experience occasional mem.
Do you ever lose your glasses or misplace your keys? Is remembering names a problem? Have you ever lost your train of thought in the middle of a sentence or walked into a room, then wondered why you were there? We all experience occasional mem.
Kyolic
If it weren't for the bad breath that results after eating, garlic would be the best-selling food supplement. Its health benefits are well known: garlic increases longevity and improves heart conditions, high blood pressure, and circulation.
If it weren't for the bad breath that results after eating, garlic would be the best-selling food supplement. Its health benefits are well known: garlic increases longevity and improves heart conditions, high blood pressure, and circulation.
Holistic Health Research
Wouldn't it be nice if Canadians who support complementary and alternative medicines, including researchers, practitioners, and organizations, banded together to share resources and support one another?
Wouldn't it be nice if Canadians who support complementary and alternative medicines, including researchers, practitioners, and organizations, banded together to share resources and support one another?
The ABCs of Hypothyroidism
Thyroid hormones affect every cell in the body. In hypothyroidism, the amount of hormone secreted by the thyroid gland does not meet the body's demands.
Thyroid hormones affect every cell in the body. In hypothyroidism, the amount of hormone secreted by the thyroid gland does not meet the body's demands.
Escaping Colds and Flu
It's that time of the year again-cold and flu season. While some families are preparing for the holidays, others are stuck at home with stockpiles of decongestants.
It's that time of the year again-cold and flu season. While some families are preparing for the holidays, others are stuck at home with stockpiles of decongestants.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin
As baby boomers age they are under assault from several types of degenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease, osteoporosis, and age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). In western societies, ARMD is the leading cause of vision loss among the elderly.
As baby boomers age they are under assault from several types of degenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease, osteoporosis, and age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). In western societies, ARMD is the leading cause of vision loss among the elderly.
Is Your Multi Pure?
Most multivitamins contain numerous artificial excipients: inert substances such as gum arabic, syrup, lanolin, or starch that are used to facilitate the manufacture of a pill.
Most multivitamins contain numerous artificial excipients: inert substances such as gum arabic, syrup, lanolin, or starch that are used to facilitate the manufacture of a pill.
Supporting Evidence
Science is working constantly to help us understand the role vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and other natural compounds play in promoting health and healing. Many noteworthy clinical studies with natural products were published in 2004.
Science is working constantly to help us understand the role vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and other natural compounds play in promoting health and healing. Many noteworthy clinical studies with natural products were published in 2004.
Wearing Life Well
Many of us know Marilu Henner best as Elaine Nardo on TV's long-running series, Tax.
Many of us know Marilu Henner best as Elaine Nardo on TV's long-running series, Tax.
Fight Fat with Fat
All fats are not equal. Although they each have nine calories per gram, the way fats are stored and their ability to be used as an energy source differ significantly.
All fats are not equal. Although they each have nine calories per gram, the way fats are stored and their ability to be used as an energy source differ significantly.
Sip Yourself Well
Next to water, green tea is one of the most popular beverages consumed worldwide. It has been used medicinally for centuries in India and China to remedy headaches, body aches and pains, digestion, depression, detoxification, as an energizer, to enhance immunity, and to prolong life.
Next to water, green tea is one of the most popular beverages consumed worldwide. It has been used medicinally for centuries in India and China to remedy headaches, body aches and pains, digestion, depression, detoxification, as an energizer, to enhance immunity, and to prolong life.
New Roots Herbal
Peter Wilkes, founder and president of New Roots Herbal, is no newcomer to the natural health industry. In 1977, Wilkes founded Community Natural Foods; two years later, he launched a second company, Christmas Natural Foods, in Richmond, British Columbia..
Peter Wilkes, founder and president of New Roots Herbal, is no newcomer to the natural health industry. In 1977, Wilkes founded Community Natural Foods; two years later, he launched a second company, Christmas Natural Foods, in Richmond, British Columbia..
Good Fat. Bad Fat.
While the negative effects of saturated fats have been well documented and widely discussed over the past 30 years, an artificial and potentially deadly fat has silently made its way into our food supply.
While the negative effects of saturated fats have been well documented and widely discussed over the past 30 years, an artificial and potentially deadly fat has silently made its way into our food supply.
Krill Oil
In the last decade, we've learned much about the benefits of a diet that includes plentiful sources of omega-3s, phospholipids, and antioxidants. Flaxseed and fish oil are well-known sources of omega-3s.
In the last decade, we've learned much about the benefits of a diet that includes plentiful sources of omega-3s, phospholipids, and antioxidants. Flaxseed and fish oil are well-known sources of omega-3s.
Shopping List for a Healthy Heart
Vitamin E (100 percent natural source mixed toco.
Vitamin E (100 percent natural source mixed toco.
First Nations Medicine
Where does learning end and stealing begin? That's the hard question non-Natives interested in exploring traditional Native North American medicine are forced to ask themselves.
Where does learning end and stealing begin? That's the hard question non-Natives interested in exploring traditional Native North American medicine are forced to ask themselves.
Your Detox-Product Shopping List
From the car fumes we breathe to the pesticide residues on our foods, toxic contaminants are, sadly, a daily reality. Your local health food store is your best source of the wide range of natural foods, herbs, and supplements needed to support natural detoxification.
From the car fumes we breathe to the pesticide residues on our foods, toxic contaminants are, sadly, a daily reality. Your local health food store is your best source of the wide range of natural foods, herbs, and supplements needed to support natural detoxification.
Taking Care of the Caregiver
In our worry about very ill patients we often forget to care for those who look after them. Caregiver spouses are at risk of becoming sick themselves unless they take special effort to stay healthy and happy.
In our worry about very ill patients we often forget to care for those who look after them. Caregiver spouses are at risk of becoming sick themselves unless they take special effort to stay healthy and happy.
Stressed Out
If you're like so many other people, you're stressed from the moment you wake up until you hit the sack some 16 hours late.
If you're like so many other people, you're stressed from the moment you wake up until you hit the sack some 16 hours late.
The Root of Longevity
Franco is pretty knowledgeable about natural health products and has been.
Franco is pretty knowledgeable about natural health products and has been.
The Nanobacteria Revolution
Are heart disease, dental plaque, kidney stones, and a host of other calcium-deposit diseases really caused by an infection? Research in the past decade suggests that diseases in which calcium accumulates inappropriately in the body (i.e.
Are heart disease, dental plaque, kidney stones, and a host of other calcium-deposit diseases really caused by an infection? Research in the past decade suggests that diseases in which calcium accumulates inappropriately in the body (i.e.
Forever Young
All of us want to have longer and healthier lives, and while some of us are dealt a better hand than others in life's genetic lottery, there are many ways we can maximize the potential we are born with.
All of us want to have longer and healthier lives, and while some of us are dealt a better hand than others in life's genetic lottery, there are many ways we can maximize the potential we are born with.
Just Lose It!
Over half of all North Americans are considered overweight, so it's not surprising that there is great interest in weight loss supplement.
Over half of all North Americans are considered overweight, so it's not surprising that there is great interest in weight loss supplement.
It's Still The One
Despite the recent storm of controversy surrounding vitamin E and its role in cardiovascular disease, research continues to support the heart health benefits of this fat-soluble antioxidant.
Despite the recent storm of controversy surrounding vitamin E and its role in cardiovascular disease, research continues to support the heart health benefits of this fat-soluble antioxidant.
Calcium
If you're anything like the average consumer, you're likely confused by the dizzying array of calcium supplements on the marke.
If you're anything like the average consumer, you're likely confused by the dizzying array of calcium supplements on the marke.
Green Tea
Buddhist monks originally brought green tea to Japan from China. It was quickly embraced by the Japanese as a soothing, calming drink and was rapidly found to have numerous health benefits. Today green tea is recognized around the world for its therapeutic properties.
Buddhist monks originally brought green tea to Japan from China. It was quickly embraced by the Japanese as a soothing, calming drink and was rapidly found to have numerous health benefits. Today green tea is recognized around the world for its therapeutic properties.
Good to the Bone
The Osteoporosis Society of Canada estimates 1.4 million Canadians suffer from osteoporosis, and more women die every year as a result of osteoporotic fractures than from breast cancer and ovarian cancer combined.
The Osteoporosis Society of Canada estimates 1.4 million Canadians suffer from osteoporosis, and more women die every year as a result of osteoporotic fractures than from breast cancer and ovarian cancer combined.
Boost Your Brain Power
Memory loss can happen to anyone. Children with attention deficit disorder, parents under stress, students cramming for exams, and aging seniors all experience a degree of forgetfulness and lack of concentration.
Memory loss can happen to anyone. Children with attention deficit disorder, parents under stress, students cramming for exams, and aging seniors all experience a degree of forgetfulness and lack of concentration.
The Energy Trio
When we are young, our bodies have a tremendous ability to repair. This is called anabolic metabolism - the ability to repair our cells faster then they break down. Anabolic metabolism also creates a great atmosphere for fat burning and muscle enhancement. In other words, instead of merely living, we feel truly alive.
When we are young, our bodies have a tremendous ability to repair. This is called anabolic metabolism - the ability to repair our cells faster then they break down. Anabolic metabolism also creates a great atmosphere for fat burning and muscle enhancement. In other words, instead of merely living, we feel truly alive.
Top 10 Supplements
In June 2002 the Journal of the American Medical Association published an article that concluded nutritional deficiencies are an important cause of chronic disease.
In June 2002 the Journal of the American Medical Association published an article that concluded nutritional deficiencies are an important cause of chronic disease.
Essential Fatty Acid Supplements
Essential fatty acid (EFA) supplements are critical agents in the prevention and treatment of a wide number of disorders ranging from asthma and heart disease to diabetic neuropathy and rheumatoid arthritis.
Essential fatty acid (EFA) supplements are critical agents in the prevention and treatment of a wide number of disorders ranging from asthma and heart disease to diabetic neuropathy and rheumatoid arthritis.
Lycopene
Lycopene, a member of the carotenoid family, is a plant pigment that gives tomatoes, watermelons, and papayas their characteristic red colou.
Lycopene, a member of the carotenoid family, is a plant pigment that gives tomatoes, watermelons, and papayas their characteristic red colou.
Multiple Choices
For once, the health experts agree. Medical doctors, naturopathic doctors, nutritionists, and scientists are all dispensing the same advice: "Take a daily multiple vitamin and mineral to fill in the nutritional gaps in your diet.
For once, the health experts agree. Medical doctors, naturopathic doctors, nutritionists, and scientists are all dispensing the same advice: "Take a daily multiple vitamin and mineral to fill in the nutritional gaps in your diet.
Enlist Garlic
Papers presented at the 2005 Garlic Symposium in Washington, DC, held April 9 to 11, report the current scientific research into the effects of garlic on heart health and cancer...
Papers presented at the 2005 Garlic Symposium in Washington, DC, held April 9 to 11, report the current scientific research into the effects of garlic on heart health and cancer...
Speaking of Plants
Have you ever taken time to go outside and just sit next to a big old oak tree? Did you feel anything, hear anything? Some people have an impassioned relationship with trees and believe it is possible to take energy and learn from them.
Have you ever taken time to go outside and just sit next to a big old oak tree? Did you feel anything, hear anything? Some people have an impassioned relationship with trees and believe it is possible to take energy and learn from them.
Omega-3 Fats
Although the trend over the last 20 years has been toward a more "fat-free diet, we now understand that the body needs essential fatty acids to control a large number of cellular processes.
Although the trend over the last 20 years has been toward a more "fat-free diet, we now understand that the body needs essential fatty acids to control a large number of cellular processes.
Hormonal Balancing Act
You might be surprised to learn that while you are still in the throes of motherhood-homework, car-pooling, and mounds of laundry-your body might already be preparing for menopause.Women can start to experience fluctuating hormones and symptoms of perimenopause (pre-menopause), including mood swings, irritability, and insomnia, as early as their thirties.
You might be surprised to learn that while you are still in the throes of motherhood-homework, car-pooling, and mounds of laundry-your body might already be preparing for menopause.Women can start to experience fluctuating hormones and symptoms of perimenopause (pre-menopause), including mood swings, irritability, and insomnia, as early as their thirties.
First Steps Toward a Healthier Future
If you've ever suffered a health problem or been close to someone who has, you know how improving nutrition can improve health. Knowing what foods to eat is just as important as knowing why we need to eat them.
If you've ever suffered a health problem or been close to someone who has, you know how improving nutrition can improve health. Knowing what foods to eat is just as important as knowing why we need to eat them.
10 Steps to Health and Longevity
Maintaining (or regaining) good health is the key to the quality and length of life. Here are 10 steps to greatly improve your odds.
Maintaining (or regaining) good health is the key to the quality and length of life. Here are 10 steps to greatly improve your odds.
Iridology
Our eyes can reflect inherited tendencies to weakness in just about any part of the body; neuromuscular problems or stiffness in the joints; or even hearing disorders. In fact, new information suggests iridology can identify a whole range of syndromes, from simple bowel tendencies to complex glandular problems.
Our eyes can reflect inherited tendencies to weakness in just about any part of the body; neuromuscular problems or stiffness in the joints; or even hearing disorders. In fact, new information suggests iridology can identify a whole range of syndromes, from simple bowel tendencies to complex glandular problems.
Preventing Osteoporosis
While we think of a stooped-over old woman as symbolic of osteoporosis, this debilitating disease occurs over a lifetime. If either parent or any of your siblings have had an osteoporotic fracture, your risk for the disease is doubled, but that doesn't mean it's inevitable.
While we think of a stooped-over old woman as symbolic of osteoporosis, this debilitating disease occurs over a lifetime. If either parent or any of your siblings have had an osteoporotic fracture, your risk for the disease is doubled, but that doesn't mean it's inevitable.
Sweet Talk
Medical researchers say we have more control over our blood sugar levels than we may realize. Scores of published studies support the use of a variety of nutritional and herbal supplements in combination with a high-fibre, nutritionally balanced diet as the best natural approach to blood sugar control.
Medical researchers say we have more control over our blood sugar levels than we may realize. Scores of published studies support the use of a variety of nutritional and herbal supplements in combination with a high-fibre, nutritionally balanced diet as the best natural approach to blood sugar control.
Healthy Skin
A multitude of skin problems, including eczema, acne, dermatitis (inflammatory conditions of the skin), hives (raised blotchy welts) and rashes have been linked to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals.
A multitude of skin problems, including eczema, acne, dermatitis (inflammatory conditions of the skin), hives (raised blotchy welts) and rashes have been linked to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals.
Parkinson's Disease Treated Naturally
Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disease of the nervous system. It is symptomized by tremor, muscular rigidity and emaciation and used to be a malady of the aged. That's not so anymore. The disease is afflicting younger and younger victims.
Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disease of the nervous system. It is symptomized by tremor, muscular rigidity and emaciation and used to be a malady of the aged. That's not so anymore. The disease is afflicting younger and younger victims.
How to Choose a Health-Care Professional
When seeking professional help about your health, do your own research. Some health food stores offer consultations with qualified staff or can recommend a herbalist, homeopath, naturopath or nutritionist in your area.
When seeking professional help about your health, do your own research. Some health food stores offer consultations with qualified staff or can recommend a herbalist, homeopath, naturopath or nutritionist in your area.
Protect Your Immune System
We can protect and strengthen our immunity by eating right, getting enough activity and rest, practising stress reduction, and cultivating healthy emotional states.
We can protect and strengthen our immunity by eating right, getting enough activity and rest, practising stress reduction, and cultivating healthy emotional states.
Gentle Ginger
Drinking ginger root tea on these wintry days is like wrapping yourself in a down comforter. Its warming qualities are both gentle and thorough. Ginger root tea is so easy to make. Boil a few slices (two to ten, depending on how strong you want it to taste) of fresh ginger root in a few cups of water for one to three minutes, steep, and drink.
Drinking ginger root tea on these wintry days is like wrapping yourself in a down comforter. Its warming qualities are both gentle and thorough. Ginger root tea is so easy to make. Boil a few slices (two to ten, depending on how strong you want it to taste) of fresh ginger root in a few cups of water for one to three minutes, steep, and drink.
Move Over Has-Bean
Recently, while my friends and I were sharing a laugh over a cuppa java, I looked across the table at Amanda's cup and realized there was no ebony liquid in it. Instead, she was delicately sipping green tea. One of Amanda's jokes?
Recently, while my friends and I were sharing a laugh over a cuppa java, I looked across the table at Amanda's cup and realized there was no ebony liquid in it. Instead, she was delicately sipping green tea. One of Amanda's jokes?
Vitamin E
Sitting at a warm, cozy tea shop, my friend Julie mentioned that she had stopped taking vitamin E after media coverage suggested it may be harmful. The rest of the group turned and looked at me inquisitively. Many of you may also be curious about vitamin E, so join us at the tea shop, and uncover the truth about this vitamin.
Sitting at a warm, cozy tea shop, my friend Julie mentioned that she had stopped taking vitamin E after media coverage suggested it may be harmful. The rest of the group turned and looked at me inquisitively. Many of you may also be curious about vitamin E, so join us at the tea shop, and uncover the truth about this vitamin.
Heartfelt Shopping
We've all heard the morbid statistics telling us heart attacks and strokes are the top killers of Canadian men and women. However, heart disease is usually preventable. Rarely do the conditions and symptoms leading to heart disease require more than a dedicated change of habits.
We've all heard the morbid statistics telling us heart attacks and strokes are the top killers of Canadian men and women. However, heart disease is usually preventable. Rarely do the conditions and symptoms leading to heart disease require more than a dedicated change of habits.
A Friend of Vitamin C
Walking through the local mall I spot my friend Amanda in our favourite health food store. She appears to be stocking up on echinacea, but I head straight for the vitamin C; I have the sniffles and I've been under a lot of stress lately and vitamin C aids both-and much more.
Walking through the local mall I spot my friend Amanda in our favourite health food store. She appears to be stocking up on echinacea, but I head straight for the vitamin C; I have the sniffles and I've been under a lot of stress lately and vitamin C aids both-and much more.
Milk Thistle
For hundreds of years, medicinal plants have been used to protect and support liver function. Of these, the best known and currently the most well-researched is milk thistle (Silybum marianum), a rather ominous looking plant covered in sharp spines pointing in all directions.
For hundreds of years, medicinal plants have been used to protect and support liver function. Of these, the best known and currently the most well-researched is milk thistle (Silybum marianum), a rather ominous looking plant covered in sharp spines pointing in all directions.
The Path to Phenomenal Health
I don't often advise people to get rid of books, but this month I'm making an exception. Sam Graci's new book is so accessible and so current, that it might well be the only health book you need. As an exercise in spring cleaning and information purging I say, "Remove three outdated health books from your shelf and replace them with The Path to Phenomenal Health.
I don't often advise people to get rid of books, but this month I'm making an exception. Sam Graci's new book is so accessible and so current, that it might well be the only health book you need. As an exercise in spring cleaning and information purging I say, "Remove three outdated health books from your shelf and replace them with The Path to Phenomenal Health.
Garlic the Great
Garlic is powerful, pungent medicine that adds zest to most recipes. In many traditional cultures, garlic has been used as a remedy for various ailments. Now, modern medicine is proving you can get the health benefits of garlic in a capsule and avoid the social ostracism that often accompanies fragrant garlic lovers.
Garlic is powerful, pungent medicine that adds zest to most recipes. In many traditional cultures, garlic has been used as a remedy for various ailments. Now, modern medicine is proving you can get the health benefits of garlic in a capsule and avoid the social ostracism that often accompanies fragrant garlic lovers.
Ginseng
You may be looking for safe and effective ways to help your body deal with stress and boost your immune system. If so, ginseng is the herb for you. There are several distinct species of ginseng, and each has its own effects on the body.
You may be looking for safe and effective ways to help your body deal with stress and boost your immune system. If so, ginseng is the herb for you. There are several distinct species of ginseng, and each has its own effects on the body.
CoQ10
Since its discovery, researchers have found various uses for this incredible antioxidant including treating heart disease, congestive heart failure, increasing energy levels, boosting the immune system, providing antioxidant benefits, and even preventing certain side effects from common cholesterol-lowering drugs.
Since its discovery, researchers have found various uses for this incredible antioxidant including treating heart disease, congestive heart failure, increasing energy levels, boosting the immune system, providing antioxidant benefits, and even preventing certain side effects from common cholesterol-lowering drugs.
Nature's Essentials
Along with your bear spray, bandages, and homeopathic arnica, you may want to pack some essential oils that can help with common ailments such as itchy bug bites, bruises, cuts, rashes, blisters, and sunburn. Compact, versatile, and effective on a variety of levels, essential oils such as tea tree and lavender are must-haves in your first aid kit and can be used directly on the skin without a carrier oil.
Along with your bear spray, bandages, and homeopathic arnica, you may want to pack some essential oils that can help with common ailments such as itchy bug bites, bruises, cuts, rashes, blisters, and sunburn. Compact, versatile, and effective on a variety of levels, essential oils such as tea tree and lavender are must-haves in your first aid kit and can be used directly on the skin without a carrier oil.
Beyond Bones
Calcium and magnesium are essential minerals for good health, and we often hear about their benefits to our bones. But these vital nutrients are involved in many other body processes as well. In addition to building strong bones and teeth, it strengthens muscle contraction, improves nerve transmission and blood clotting, regulates heart beat, and activates enzymes.
Calcium and magnesium are essential minerals for good health, and we often hear about their benefits to our bones. But these vital nutrients are involved in many other body processes as well. In addition to building strong bones and teeth, it strengthens muscle contraction, improves nerve transmission and blood clotting, regulates heart beat, and activates enzymes.
Navigating the Supplement Maze
Your first trip to the local natural health store's supplements aisle can be overwhelming. The myriad of nutrient and herbal helpers that populate the shelves can make it difficult to navigate your way to just the right supplements for your own good health.
Your first trip to the local natural health store's supplements aisle can be overwhelming. The myriad of nutrient and herbal helpers that populate the shelves can make it difficult to navigate your way to just the right supplements for your own good health.
We're Pregnant! Now What?
"How do I ensure a healthy pregnancy? You can have a healthy pregnancy by eating a healthy, well-balanced diet augmented with the right supplements for baby and maternal health, making sure exercise is part of your weekly routine, and maintaining a healthy weight.
"How do I ensure a healthy pregnancy? You can have a healthy pregnancy by eating a healthy, well-balanced diet augmented with the right supplements for baby and maternal health, making sure exercise is part of your weekly routine, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Yeast
A recent conversation with Edith, an old friend, reminded me that even an ordinarily vivacious and energetic health professional can occasionally have trouble with weight and depression.
A recent conversation with Edith, an old friend, reminded me that even an ordinarily vivacious and energetic health professional can occasionally have trouble with weight and depression.
Going Vegan
Switching to a vegetable-based diet has many health benefits. According to the Dietitians of Canada, vegans show lower rates of hypertension and adult-onset diabetes.
Switching to a vegetable-based diet has many health benefits. According to the Dietitians of Canada, vegans show lower rates of hypertension and adult-onset diabetes.
Beauty Without Injections
In their search for quick fixes to defy the signs of aging, many people turn to facial injections. The injected substances can include anything from a protein produced by the same bacteria that causes botulism, to fat, collagen, and even silicone to fill in wrinkles.
In their search for quick fixes to defy the signs of aging, many people turn to facial injections. The injected substances can include anything from a protein produced by the same bacteria that causes botulism, to fat, collagen, and even silicone to fill in wrinkles.
Back to Basics
Building your strongest nutritional foundation begins with two basic steps: eating a balanced nutritious diet and taking a high-quality daily multiple vitamin and mineral supplement. This back-to-basics strategy has proven effective for young and old alike.
Building your strongest nutritional foundation begins with two basic steps: eating a balanced nutritious diet and taking a high-quality daily multiple vitamin and mineral supplement. This back-to-basics strategy has proven effective for young and old alike.
Biofeedback for Beginners
Biofeedback, also known as physiological feedback, is a treatment technique established through scientific experimentation that helps people improve their health by making use of signals from their own bodies. This noninvasive technique measures bodily functions such as breathing, blood pressure, skin temperature, and muscle tension.
Biofeedback, also known as physiological feedback, is a treatment technique established through scientific experimentation that helps people improve their health by making use of signals from their own bodies. This noninvasive technique measures bodily functions such as breathing, blood pressure, skin temperature, and muscle tension.
Mmmushrooms
Just as they draw upon decaying matter to grow, mushrooms also draw, or absorb, toxins in the body and safely eliminate them. This detoxifying action makes the mushroom a valuable food for preventing disease. Studies show that the unique structure of the mushroom's cell walls, specifically a sugar-protein combination, is mainly responsible for their health benefits.
Just as they draw upon decaying matter to grow, mushrooms also draw, or absorb, toxins in the body and safely eliminate them. This detoxifying action makes the mushroom a valuable food for preventing disease. Studies show that the unique structure of the mushroom's cell walls, specifically a sugar-protein combination, is mainly responsible for their health benefits.
Food and Mood
The relationship between food and mood is mediated by both psychological and physiological factors. It is clear that food can influence mood while mood can influence food choices. It is a complex relationship and based on taste, experience, expectations, culture, stressors, and nutritional status.
The relationship between food and mood is mediated by both psychological and physiological factors. It is clear that food can influence mood while mood can influence food choices. It is a complex relationship and based on taste, experience, expectations, culture, stressors, and nutritional status.
Drinking for Thinking
Green tea, and other warm drinks such as yerba mate and rooibos tea, all boast health benefits, but the most important health benefit may be their ability to help us relax. Take some time to brew and sip the tea of your choice and enjoy not only a gentle attitude adjustment but also improved mental health.
Green tea, and other warm drinks such as yerba mate and rooibos tea, all boast health benefits, but the most important health benefit may be their ability to help us relax. Take some time to brew and sip the tea of your choice and enjoy not only a gentle attitude adjustment but also improved mental health.
Allicin
Researchers are exploring the medicinal possibilities of garlic, especially its main constituent, allicin. Research suggests that garlic may have health benefits such as lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, protecting the heart and arteries, boosting immunity, increasing anti-allergy effects, and helping in cancer prevention and therapy.
Researchers are exploring the medicinal possibilities of garlic, especially its main constituent, allicin. Research suggests that garlic may have health benefits such as lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, protecting the heart and arteries, boosting immunity, increasing anti-allergy effects, and helping in cancer prevention and therapy.
Beauty-Inside and Out
BeautyThere are healthy strategies that keep you feeling good, and the natural outcome of feeling good is looking good-no matter what your age. Eating well, exercising, and taking the right supplements help promote a healthy body-and a healthy look. Why not be beautiful inside and out?
BeautyThere are healthy strategies that keep you feeling good, and the natural outcome of feeling good is looking good-no matter what your age. Eating well, exercising, and taking the right supplements help promote a healthy body-and a healthy look. Why not be beautiful inside and out?
Moving on Up!
Just about everyone goes through an occasional bout of feeling down. Along with a better diet and daily exercise, adding a few tried and true mood boosters to your nutritional and herbal supplement program often makes a noticeable difference in a short period of time.
Just about everyone goes through an occasional bout of feeling down. Along with a better diet and daily exercise, adding a few tried and true mood boosters to your nutritional and herbal supplement program often makes a noticeable difference in a short period of time.
Fighting Avian Flu
Homeopathy-light years ahead of allopathic (conventional) medicine-has already successfully introduced an influenza remedy made from the hearts and livers of wild ducks. This remedy is still in use today to fight annual winter flu.
Homeopathy-light years ahead of allopathic (conventional) medicine-has already successfully introduced an influenza remedy made from the hearts and livers of wild ducks. This remedy is still in use today to fight annual winter flu.
Dodge Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic health problem that involves elevated blood sugar levels. Proper nutrition, exercise, and dietary supplements normalize blood sugar levels and weight preventing diabetes. Your diet should be high in fibre, found in vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. More specifically, your diet should include water-soluble fibre.
Diabetes is a chronic health problem that involves elevated blood sugar levels. Proper nutrition, exercise, and dietary supplements normalize blood sugar levels and weight preventing diabetes. Your diet should be high in fibre, found in vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. More specifically, your diet should include water-soluble fibre.
Calcium
North Americans are the highest consumers of dairy products and calcium supplements in the world. So why do we still have the highest osteoporosis rates? Recommended daily allowances vary from 500 mg to 1,500 mg per day worldwide. So how much is enough? The maximum benefit appears to be within the range of 800 and 1,000 mg daily.
North Americans are the highest consumers of dairy products and calcium supplements in the world. So why do we still have the highest osteoporosis rates? Recommended daily allowances vary from 500 mg to 1,500 mg per day worldwide. So how much is enough? The maximum benefit appears to be within the range of 800 and 1,000 mg daily.
Spice It Up!
With the safety of traditional anti-inflammatory medicines recently being questioned, many individuals are turning to natural supplements including ginger and turmeric for relief from pain, swelling, and inflammation.
With the safety of traditional anti-inflammatory medicines recently being questioned, many individuals are turning to natural supplements including ginger and turmeric for relief from pain, swelling, and inflammation.
Ginger Garlic Gourmet
Ginger and garlic are the dynamic duo of good health. Their medicinal properties have been recorded by diverse ancient cultures. Recent research studies praise them both as safe and effective natural remedies.
Ginger and garlic are the dynamic duo of good health. Their medicinal properties have been recorded by diverse ancient cultures. Recent research studies praise them both as safe and effective natural remedies.
Spa Treatments
Spas attract a wide range of clients from teenagers to seniors, both male and female. I put spa treatments into three rough categories: holistic, stress release, and cosmetic. Often these categories overlap; simply stated, holistic treatments are therapeutic and include various types of massage, reflexology, and hot paraffin wax treatments.
Spas attract a wide range of clients from teenagers to seniors, both male and female. I put spa treatments into three rough categories: holistic, stress release, and cosmetic. Often these categories overlap; simply stated, holistic treatments are therapeutic and include various types of massage, reflexology, and hot paraffin wax treatments.
Milk Thistle
Hundreds of scientific studies have confirmed that preparations made from the seeds of this prickly plant can substantially protect the liver from damage and help convert foreign substances as well as chemical and environmental toxins into less harmful, water-soluble substances that can then be easily excreted from the body.
Hundreds of scientific studies have confirmed that preparations made from the seeds of this prickly plant can substantially protect the liver from damage and help convert foreign substances as well as chemical and environmental toxins into less harmful, water-soluble substances that can then be easily excreted from the body.
Health Shows
The Health Show is coming to Edmonton in September. I wouldn't miss it for anything! Mixing entertainment with education is a perfect way to learn. Information seems to sink in better when it's in an informal, fun environment.
The Health Show is coming to Edmonton in September. I wouldn't miss it for anything! Mixing entertainment with education is a perfect way to learn. Information seems to sink in better when it's in an informal, fun environment.
Battle the bulge while you can!
Several recent studies point to the importance of shedding excess weight-and keeping it off-for optimal health and enjoyment of life.People who are overweight in middle age are more likely than their normal-weight peers to experience physical, emotional, and social problems when they grow old.
Several recent studies point to the importance of shedding excess weight-and keeping it off-for optimal health and enjoyment of life.People who are overweight in middle age are more likely than their normal-weight peers to experience physical, emotional, and social problems when they grow old.
SISU
When SISU (pronounced "see-sue) founder Harlan Lahti started to make his own vitamins and supplements and sell them in 1980, from Finlandia, his Vancouver pharmacy he had no idea that what was then a sideline business would one day become one of Canada's .
When SISU (pronounced "see-sue) founder Harlan Lahti started to make his own vitamins and supplements and sell them in 1980, from Finlandia, his Vancouver pharmacy he had no idea that what was then a sideline business would one day become one of Canada's .
Purity Life
Since 1984, when David and Elyse Chapman first opened the doors of Purity Life, the small distribution company has grown into Canada's leading supplier of natural health products.
Since 1984, when David and Elyse Chapman first opened the doors of Purity Life, the small distribution company has grown into Canada's leading supplier of natural health products.
Flora
Flora Health has been manufacturing and distributing organic health products since 1965 and is a recognized pioneer in its fiel.
Flora Health has been manufacturing and distributing organic health products since 1965 and is a recognized pioneer in its fiel.
Swiss Herbal
Swiss Herbal started out as a small home-based import business in the fifties, but has grown over the years to become the provider of Canada's largest selection of natural health remedies.
Swiss Herbal started out as a small home-based import business in the fifties, but has grown over the years to become the provider of Canada's largest selection of natural health remedies.
Flora
One reason for Flora's continued success is the on-going commitment to innovation.
One reason for Flora's continued success is the on-going commitment to innovation.
Nu-Life
When the low-carb diet craze exploded, companies from nearly every food-related industry responded by rushing to develop low-carb products. As these companies scrambled to cash in on the dieting trend of the year, store shelves filled with low-carb cereals, low-carb ice cream, and even low-carb beer.
When the low-carb diet craze exploded, companies from nearly every food-related industry responded by rushing to develop low-carb products. As these companies scrambled to cash in on the dieting trend of the year, store shelves filled with low-carb cereals, low-carb ice cream, and even low-carb beer.
Preferred Nutrition
Deane Parkes, president of Preferred Nutrition, launched his career in the natural health industry through a chance encounter with a health food store owner who was having a bad day.
Deane Parkes, president of Preferred Nutrition, launched his career in the natural health industry through a chance encounter with a health food store owner who was having a bad day.
Inno-Vite
Leaving a secure career to follow your dreams is a risky move-but for Cornelius and Donna Pasare, it was also the right move.
Leaving a secure career to follow your dreams is a risky move-but for Cornelius and Donna Pasare, it was also the right move.
From Greens+ to Great
Leading companies in the competitive health food industry differentiate themselves from their competitors by formulating top-quality products with proven results-and that's exactly the approach that has worked for Genuine Health, Canada's leading health supplement company.
Leading companies in the competitive health food industry differentiate themselves from their competitors by formulating top-quality products with proven results-and that's exactly the approach that has worked for Genuine Health, Canada's leading health supplement company.
Quest Vitamins
A lot of things have changed in the last 30 years. But one thing Canadians have come to rely on is the unchangeable and unquestionable quality of Quest Vitamins.
A lot of things have changed in the last 30 years. But one thing Canadians have come to rely on is the unchangeable and unquestionable quality of Quest Vitamins.
The Vitamin E Debate
After its exciting discovery in 1922 as a nutrient essential for successful pregnancies in laboratory rats, vitamin E was used in the 1930s by Dr. Evan Shute, a Canadian obstetrician, to reduce the likelihood of miscarriage in his female patients. Researchers called it a sex hormone and controversy began to brew.
After its exciting discovery in 1922 as a nutrient essential for successful pregnancies in laboratory rats, vitamin E was used in the 1930s by Dr. Evan Shute, a Canadian obstetrician, to reduce the likelihood of miscarriage in his female patients. Researchers called it a sex hormone and controversy began to brew.
Garlic the Protector
The newest research on garlic has given us increasing insight into the prophylactic and therapeutic breadth of this amazing bulb. Though I have been investigating garlic research for more than 20 years, I remain surprised by the powerful effects of garlic on the major killer diseases of society.
The newest research on garlic has given us increasing insight into the prophylactic and therapeutic breadth of this amazing bulb. Though I have been investigating garlic research for more than 20 years, I remain surprised by the powerful effects of garlic on the major killer diseases of society.
Essential Fats
Many people are confused about which fats promote good health and which ones lead to disease. I understand the confusion.
Many people are confused about which fats promote good health and which ones lead to disease. I understand the confusion.
Electrodermal Screening
Many Canadian natural health providers use electrodermal screening (EDS) to gather bioenergy feedback and find energy imbalances that may be symptoms of disease. Some naturopaths also use the devices to test for sensitivities to certain foods and other substances. How effective is electrodermal screening?
Many Canadian natural health providers use electrodermal screening (EDS) to gather bioenergy feedback and find energy imbalances that may be symptoms of disease. Some naturopaths also use the devices to test for sensitivities to certain foods and other substances. How effective is electrodermal screening?
Super Selenium
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Is it Superman? No-it's super selenium! This incredible mineral is associated with a number of "super benefits ranging from cancer prevention to thyroid disease support.
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Is it Superman? No-it's super selenium! This incredible mineral is associated with a number of "super benefits ranging from cancer prevention to thyroid disease support.
Looking for a Healthy Tax Break
Benjamin Franklin famously said, "In this world nothing is certain but death and taxes. A coalition of groups involved in natural health products and services would like to ease the burden of the latter for those who take care to delay the former.
Benjamin Franklin famously said, "In this world nothing is certain but death and taxes. A coalition of groups involved in natural health products and services would like to ease the burden of the latter for those who take care to delay the former.
Widespread, Severe, and Treatable with Pills
If you've flipped through a daily newspaper recently, you may have seen the ad for the cholesterol-lowering drug Lipitor. Next to a stark image of the tagged toe of a corpse is this question: "What would you rather have, a cholesterol test or a final exam?
If you've flipped through a daily newspaper recently, you may have seen the ad for the cholesterol-lowering drug Lipitor. Next to a stark image of the tagged toe of a corpse is this question: "What would you rather have, a cholesterol test or a final exam?
Dong Quai
Some herbs are so complex that they have the ability to heal many different diseases and health problems. Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is one such herb.
Some herbs are so complex that they have the ability to heal many different diseases and health problems. Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is one such herb.
Postoperative Healing
No one wants to go under the knife, but surgery is sometimes necessary and unavoidable. Undergoing a surgical procedure can trigger a significant amount of stress on the body.
No one wants to go under the knife, but surgery is sometimes necessary and unavoidable. Undergoing a surgical procedure can trigger a significant amount of stress on the body.
Blimey, Limey!
Hundreds of years ago, sailors suffered horribly from a disease called scurvy until a British doctor discovered that a ration of lime juice prevented its onset (hence the nickname "Limey for sailors of old).
Hundreds of years ago, sailors suffered horribly from a disease called scurvy until a British doctor discovered that a ration of lime juice prevented its onset (hence the nickname "Limey for sailors of old).
Three Major Advances in 2007
We hear plenty of bad news when it comes to major health threats such as breast cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and diabetes, but here is some promising research, completed in the past year, which may improve the outlook for these all-too-common conditions.
We hear plenty of bad news when it comes to major health threats such as breast cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and diabetes, but here is some promising research, completed in the past year, which may improve the outlook for these all-too-common conditions.
Got Stress?
Cold season is here, and people are talking about natural approaches to reduce risk for catching a cold, or at least improve recovery time. One of the old standbys for this season of sneezes and sniffles is vitamin C.
Cold season is here, and people are talking about natural approaches to reduce risk for catching a cold, or at least improve recovery time. One of the old standbys for this season of sneezes and sniffles is vitamin C.
Your New Beau-Tea Secret
Green tea is best known as a healthy drink, a wise alternative to coffee, and a superb choice for the daily dieter. You know it as a "power tea.
Green tea is best known as a healthy drink, a wise alternative to coffee, and a superb choice for the daily dieter. You know it as a "power tea.
No Bed of Roses
The good-night wish, "Sleep tight, don't let the bedbugs bite may have lost its charm with the recent spate of bedbug outbreaks. Across Canada reported cases of bedbug infestations have increased as much as 600 percent in the past decade.
The good-night wish, "Sleep tight, don't let the bedbugs bite may have lost its charm with the recent spate of bedbug outbreaks. Across Canada reported cases of bedbug infestations have increased as much as 600 percent in the past decade.
Phytochemicals
When you read the labels on packaged food, do the long lists of bizarre ingredients make you wish you'd majored in biochemistry?
When you read the labels on packaged food, do the long lists of bizarre ingredients make you wish you'd majored in biochemistry?
Consider Your Liver
You already know that the liver is an amazing organ. The hundreds of vital functions that our liver performs for us daily are often taken for granted. In fact, most people don't consider their liver until problems aris.
You already know that the liver is an amazing organ. The hundreds of vital functions that our liver performs for us daily are often taken for granted. In fact, most people don't consider their liver until problems aris.
Enliven Your Liver
Why should you take care of your liver? Because it takes care of you. The hard-working liver is the second-largest organ of the body (the skin is the largest) and performs more than 500 vital bodily functions.
Why should you take care of your liver? Because it takes care of you. The hard-working liver is the second-largest organ of the body (the skin is the largest) and performs more than 500 vital bodily functions.
Flower Essences
On a recent wilderness walk, I was greeted with the refreshing briskness and sweet aroma of wildflowers. I felt alive as the rays from an early morning sun sparkled on dew glistening with the essence of the flowers. Was this how people discovered the power of flower essences millennia ago?
On a recent wilderness walk, I was greeted with the refreshing briskness and sweet aroma of wildflowers. I felt alive as the rays from an early morning sun sparkled on dew glistening with the essence of the flowers. Was this how people discovered the power of flower essences millennia ago?
What's the Buzz?
There's a lot of buzz about the health benefits of bee pollen and royal jelly, but apart from being good for bees, are there any real benefits for people?
There's a lot of buzz about the health benefits of bee pollen and royal jelly, but apart from being good for bees, are there any real benefits for people?
A Multivitamin Survival Guide
Time constraints can force us to rely too often on less-than-nutritious processed foods. Combine that with the fact that nutrient absorption decreases as we age, and we end up with suboptimal nutrition. We can help counter these effects with a multivitamin, but how do we choose the best one?
Time constraints can force us to rely too often on less-than-nutritious processed foods. Combine that with the fact that nutrient absorption decreases as we age, and we end up with suboptimal nutrition. We can help counter these effects with a multivitamin, but how do we choose the best one?
Maitake Mushrooms
The maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) has been recognized as a source of immune-enhancing compounds that offer significant health benefits.
The maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) has been recognized as a source of immune-enhancing compounds that offer significant health benefits.
Antioxidant Reference Guide
Antioxidant supplements come in many forms, including powders, tablets, capsules, soft gels, liquid extracts, and teas. They can be purchased as single ingredients or as preformulated combinations.
Antioxidant supplements come in many forms, including powders, tablets, capsules, soft gels, liquid extracts, and teas. They can be purchased as single ingredients or as preformulated combinations.
Sweet Healing
Who needs a spoonful of sugar to help the medicine go down when honey is medicine itself? Long used in traditional medicine, honey has recently been the subject of many scientific studies that provide evidence of its effectiveness as a healing agent.
Who needs a spoonful of sugar to help the medicine go down when honey is medicine itself? Long used in traditional medicine, honey has recently been the subject of many scientific studies that provide evidence of its effectiveness as a healing agent.
It's Sexy Time!
Get this: the sexiest part of your anatomy is your brain. Scientists insist it's the organ between your ears-not your legs-that makes all the difference to the quality (and maybe the quantity) of your "sexy time. That's why many of the natural products used for enhancing sexual pleasure also reduce stress and promote mental health.
Get this: the sexiest part of your anatomy is your brain. Scientists insist it's the organ between your ears-not your legs-that makes all the difference to the quality (and maybe the quantity) of your "sexy time. That's why many of the natural products used for enhancing sexual pleasure also reduce stress and promote mental health.
What's Your Body's Relationship With Sugar?
Metabolic syndrome, syndrome X, hypoglycemia, and pre-diabetes are all names for blood sugar disorders that describe the way a body tries, but fails, to handle blood sugar.
Metabolic syndrome, syndrome X, hypoglycemia, and pre-diabetes are all names for blood sugar disorders that describe the way a body tries, but fails, to handle blood sugar.
The Real Vitamin C
Whole fruits and vegetables contain inherent cofactors that work together to facilitate absorption of nutrients. One such fruit is acerola-a naturally bioavailable source of vitamin C.
Whole fruits and vegetables contain inherent cofactors that work together to facilitate absorption of nutrients. One such fruit is acerola-a naturally bioavailable source of vitamin C.
Sick in the Wellness World
I was fortunate enough to get a free pass to a health and wellness expo recently, as I was helping at a presentation for a book entitled Body Breakdowns (Anvil Press, 2007). I felt weird about hosting the presentation, which was about being "Sick in a Well World.
I was fortunate enough to get a free pass to a health and wellness expo recently, as I was helping at a presentation for a book entitled Body Breakdowns (Anvil Press, 2007). I felt weird about hosting the presentation, which was about being "Sick in a Well World.
Natural Solutions for Women
Noninvasive, natural remedies are often the first choice for wise women. Here are six well-researched natural health products that help protect and enhance every woman's health. They are available at your local natural health store.
Noninvasive, natural remedies are often the first choice for wise women. Here are six well-researched natural health products that help protect and enhance every woman's health. They are available at your local natural health store.
Nutrients In the News
There have been 32 adverse reactions to vitamin C as of May 2008, according to the Canada Vigilance Online Database hosted by Health Canada. But hold on! Before you get nervous and chuck out the bottle that you just bought, let's dig deeper.
There have been 32 adverse reactions to vitamin C as of May 2008, according to the Canada Vigilance Online Database hosted by Health Canada. But hold on! Before you get nervous and chuck out the bottle that you just bought, let's dig deeper.
Seeing is Believing
Eyesight is often the first sense adversely affected by time and poor nutrition. Macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts are three of the most common causes of blindness in North American seniors.
Eyesight is often the first sense adversely affected by time and poor nutrition. Macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts are three of the most common causes of blindness in North American seniors.
Summer Drinks
The hot and lazy days of summer just beg for icy cold drinks. But many traditional recipes for summer drinks are made with simple syrup, a sugar and water mixture that is boiled, cooled, and then refrigerated until needed.
The hot and lazy days of summer just beg for icy cold drinks. But many traditional recipes for summer drinks are made with simple syrup, a sugar and water mixture that is boiled, cooled, and then refrigerated until needed.
Antioxidants
An antioxidant is a molecule that helps stop oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals-those molecules in the body that are unstable due to a missing electron. The free radical will try to stabilize itself by stealing an electron from one of the body's healthy cells, a process called oxidation.
An antioxidant is a molecule that helps stop oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals-those molecules in the body that are unstable due to a missing electron. The free radical will try to stabilize itself by stealing an electron from one of the body's healthy cells, a process called oxidation.
Vitamin Angels
The Health First Network, a group of Canada's leading independent health and wellness retailers, proudly supports the work of Vitamin Angels in the fight against childhood blindness and malnutrition.
The Health First Network, a group of Canada's leading independent health and wellness retailers, proudly supports the work of Vitamin Angels in the fight against childhood blindness and malnutrition.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an energetic little nutrient considered crucial for cellular energy production. Concentrated in microscopic cellular organs called mitochondria, it is one of a select number of nutrients that has been the subject of intense study over the last 20 years.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an energetic little nutrient considered crucial for cellular energy production. Concentrated in microscopic cellular organs called mitochondria, it is one of a select number of nutrients that has been the subject of intense study over the last 20 years.
Mineral Ascorbates
Burgeoning rates of geriatric conditions such as osteoporosis have sparked an interest in mineral supplements and their absorption rates. But which mineral forms are best, and how do we get the most bang for our buck from mineral supplements?
Burgeoning rates of geriatric conditions such as osteoporosis have sparked an interest in mineral supplements and their absorption rates. But which mineral forms are best, and how do we get the most bang for our buck from mineral supplements?
Small Steps Toward Health
Take it one step at a time. That's the advice we hear when we're overwhelmed and don't know where to start. The thought of beginning a healthier lifestyle can be daunting, but it really is just a matter of making little changes to your daily routine.
Take it one step at a time. That's the advice we hear when we're overwhelmed and don't know where to start. The thought of beginning a healthier lifestyle can be daunting, but it really is just a matter of making little changes to your daily routine.
Spice Up Your Holiday
'Tisn't just the season for sugar plums and candy canes. There are many more ways to spice up your holiday season, and the good news is that these spices can also jazz up your health quotient.
'Tisn't just the season for sugar plums and candy canes. There are many more ways to spice up your holiday season, and the good news is that these spices can also jazz up your health quotient.
5 Tips for a Successful Detox
Watch late-night television and you'll notice several commercial breaks featuring ads promising relief for digestive woes. Over 20 million Canadians are affected by digestive disorders; tummy troubles cost about $8 billion a year.
Watch late-night television and you'll notice several commercial breaks featuring ads promising relief for digestive woes. Over 20 million Canadians are affected by digestive disorders; tummy troubles cost about $8 billion a year.
Weight-loss Aids
If you're like the majority of Canadians whose Day-Timers include notations such as "exercise every day, "drink more water, and "eat more salads, don't forget to add "research health supplements, because there are some great products that may help in shedding those extra post-holiday pounds.
If you're like the majority of Canadians whose Day-Timers include notations such as "exercise every day, "drink more water, and "eat more salads, don't forget to add "research health supplements, because there are some great products that may help in shedding those extra post-holiday pounds.
Deal Out Cancer
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, about 40 percent of women and nearly 45 percent of men in this country will face a personal battle with this fearful disease.
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, about 40 percent of women and nearly 45 percent of men in this country will face a personal battle with this fearful disease.
Lacking Libido
A healthy libido or sex drive is a normal part of being human. While it is not uncommon to go through periods when sexual desire declines or wanes, libido problems become self-evident when these low periods recur and lead to personal stress and interpersonal problems.
A healthy libido or sex drive is a normal part of being human. While it is not uncommon to go through periods when sexual desire declines or wanes, libido problems become self-evident when these low periods recur and lead to personal stress and interpersonal problems.
Fertility
You've been trying and trying, but your dream of having a child just hasn't come true. Along with the longing to hold your own little one in your arms come some nagging questions.
You've been trying and trying, but your dream of having a child just hasn't come true. Along with the longing to hold your own little one in your arms come some nagging questions.
Canada Organic
Though Friday the 13th is considered unlucky for some, this past February's 13th day was an auspicious one for the organic food industry in Canada-as well as for consumers of organic products.
Though Friday the 13th is considered unlucky for some, this past February's 13th day was an auspicious one for the organic food industry in Canada-as well as for consumers of organic products.
Let’s Talk About SEX...
We can talk about sex, but with increased rates of low libido, are people actually “doing it”?
We can talk about sex, but with increased rates of low libido, are people actually “doing it”?
Check your Chocolate
Over the last decade, the medicinal value of cocoa has been the focus of scientific scrutiny. For example, researchers from the United Kingdom found that cocoa is rich in naturally occurring polyphenols, plant chemicals with antioxidant activity.
Over the last decade, the medicinal value of cocoa has been the focus of scientific scrutiny. For example, researchers from the United Kingdom found that cocoa is rich in naturally occurring polyphenols, plant chemicals with antioxidant activity.
Vitamin E and Cancer
A spinach salad with avocado, toasted almonds, and asparagus spears makes a delicious lunch. But this powerful meal could also help reduce your risk of developing lung cancer.
A spinach salad with avocado, toasted almonds, and asparagus spears makes a delicious lunch. But this powerful meal could also help reduce your risk of developing lung cancer.
Support Your Liver & Age Better
Even though the liver is considered essential for detoxifying, it is often overlooked when people consider how best to support their body in healthy aging.
Even though the liver is considered essential for detoxifying, it is often overlooked when people consider how best to support their body in healthy aging.
