by | Apr 28, 2015 | Uncategorized
Naturopathic Medicine Northwest Calgary
In the medical discipline worldwide, antibiotic abuse leading to superbug outbreaks is becoming a worrisome and threatening phenomenon. It is now common knowledge that antibiotics are for bacterial infections and that common colds and flus caused by viruses can usually be fought off by the body’s adaptive immune system, of course, given overall good health, adequate nutrition, fluids, and rest. In addition, I am now seeing a trend where certain natural health products are being applied to help people overcome cold and flu symptoms: muscle and joint aches, headaches, stuffy nose, abdominal discomfort, etc. While I validate the supportive use of topical ointments, creams, and essential oils for symptom relief, I would also like to put forth a precautionary note on the use of these remedies. Specifically, chemical substances called monoterpenes (menthol, camphor, eucalyptol, pinene), found in Tiger Balm, BenGay, Icy Hot, FlexAll, RUB A535, Vick’s, Salonpas, proprietary and non-proprietary essential oil mixtures, to name a few, are neurotoxic for certain groups of people. Individuals belonging to the following groups should completely avoid these products, especially because monoterpenes are easily absorbed through the mouth, nose (inhalation), mucus membranes, and skin:
- Toddlers less than 2 years of age.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Epilepsy.
- Severe gastroesphageal reflux disease.
- Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, also known as Favism.
- Cholecystitis (gallbladder infection), cholelithiasis (gallstones), biliary duct blockage, liver diseases.
Dr. Kait Chang ND
Dr. Kait Chang ND is a graduate from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. Before studying medicine, she acquired Honours Bachelor of Science in psychology and nutritional sciences at the University of Toronto.
Learn more about Naturopathic Medicine and what are the conditions we treat.
by | Apr 28, 2015 | Uncategorized
Mesotherapy NW Calgary
The skin has multiple functions. One of its main purposes is to retain moisture in the body. Burnt victims are at risk of severe dehydration due to reduced skin coverage. In the winter months when the air is dry, the skin loses moisture through evaporation. Particularly in the lower legs, the skin becomes dry, flaky, and itchy, termed winter dermatitis. Compared to other parts of the body, the skin in the lower legs is most prone to dryness due to lesser distribution of sebaceous glands in the skin. These glands produce an oily substance called sebum, which helps retain moisture within the middle (dermis) layer of skin. Sebaceous gland density is highest to lowest in the order of the scalp and face, chest, back, abdomen, arms, thighs, and finally, the lower legs, with none in palms and soles. In other words, skin in the lower legs has the least amount of sebum, hence retain the least amount of moisture. Give extra care to your skin in the winter by avoiding extreme hot bath and shower, harsh soaps; moisturizing immediately after cleansing, and keeping yourself well-hydrated throughout the day.
Dr. Kait Chang ND
Dr. Kait Chang ND is a graduate from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. Before studying medicine, she acquired Honours Bachelor of Science in psychology and nutritional sciences at the University of Toronto.
Avoid having dry skin this winter and keep yourself well-hydrated throughout the day. Consult us for skin issues so we can help!
by | Apr 21, 2015 | Uncategorized
Naturopathy NW Calgary
“Recently I have been speaking to a lot of people about anxiety. It seems to me there are many different types of anxiety – some with triggers, some without, some that persists for days and some anxiety that is short lived. When we are thinking of worst-case scenarios it is impossible to live in the present or experience pleasure. Our thinking becomes narrow and we become stuck in our heads. A simple way of pulling yourself out of this is to focus on the senses and on the present moment. This might mean using your breath as an anchor. When you notice you are caught up in your worries about the future or having regrets about the past, simply notice what is happening and say to yourself “Come back”. Take a calming breath and focus on what is happening in the present. You will find that it is difficult to feel feelings of anxiety if you are in the present.”
Dr. Abigail Draper
Clinical Psychologist
Consult one of our amazing practitioners for health care benefits. Contact us today!
by | Mar 18, 2015 | Uncategorized
Our Dr.Kait has been out and about this past month helping people monitor their blood pressure as well as teach them how to optimize it naturally. A big thanks to Crowfoot YMCA and Crowfoot Community Natural Health Foods for having us!
WHAT ELSE DO YOU NOT KNOW ABOUT THE HEART?
Blood pressure is affected by various physiological and psychological disturbances. Two of which are the heart’s health condition and the integrity of blood vessels. Below are two basic lifestyle changes that help reduce the risk of cardiovascular accidents:
Healthy Heart Calgary
1. PERIODONTAL HEALTH
Although the physiology is not clearly elucidated, many studies have found that gum health is linked to heart health. Because the gum is a highly vascularized tissue, and anatomically being close to the heart, anomalies in the latter may affect the former, and vice versa. Bacteria infecting the root of a tooth can be easily introduced to the heart via the highly vascularized gum tissue. This is why people with heart valve problems must take antibiotics shortly before a dental treatment. Aside from eating right and exercising frequently, make sure to floss your teeth everyday. Brushing is simply not enough to clear debris in the gums.
2. FILTERED COFFEE
Unfiltered coffee is known to increase the risk of congestive heart disease and raise bad cholesterol, known as Low-Density Lipoprotein. Paper filters trap the cholesterol-raising, oily chemicals called cafestol and kahweol. People with existing cardiovascular disease or dyslipidemia are most vulnerable to these chemicals. So, ditch that fancy French press and bring back the old Country style cup of Joe!
For more information on how to optimize your blood pressure naturally give us a call at the clinic and we would be happy to assist you! 403-452-6262
by | Mar 3, 2015 | Uncategorized
Depression is a common mental-health complaint and a leading cause of disability. It can be hard to understand what causes it and how to treat it. For some people it is a genetic vulnerability. For others it may be the outcome of trauma which has disrupted brain function and altered an individual’s ability to handle life’s challenges. These traumas can be Trauma with a capital “T” (car accidents, sexual assault) that are deep seated. They can also be simple traumas such as an incident that happened at work including bullying or humiliation, or conflict with a partner that is leading to depression. Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an innovative clinical treatment that has helped many recover from depression. The validity and reliability of EMDR has been established by rigorous research. EMDR can be used to target depression that is related to negative thoughts about oneself or sadness that may result from lost relationships and lost opportunities, anger and loneliness. It has also been widely used to successfully treat anxiety and panic attacks, phobias, stress, sleep problems, self esteem and performance anxiety. EMDR allows natural reprocessing of memories and experiences. As a result, most people experience EMDR as being a very empowering therapy that can lead to dramatic and rapid improvement in many aspects of life.
EMDR Treatment NW Calgary
If you are curious about EMDR or think that it is a therapy that may help you,
please contact Dr. Abigail Draper, Registered Psychologist.
