Gut health has taken off in the social media world, and with any new trend, there is good and not so good information promoted. In my practice I find that there is a lot of confusion as to what the difference is between pre- and probiotics as well as what is the difference between a probiotic and a digestive enzyme. I could write a novel and only scratch the surface of all of this, so in this blog I will try to cover probiotics in great detail. I hope this helps! Probiotics are a combination of live beneficial bacteria and/or yeasts that naturally live in and on the body. Since the advent of the ‘germ theory’ bacteria is usually viewed...
Often people think that big pain needs big medicine. However, I have found that not to be the case at all, especially when it comes to stomach issues. Looking for the root cause is always my number one goal, but sometimes it takes a little while to discover what is causing people's distress. In those cases, or in times when we are not fully in control of our diets, it is good to know that there are safe and effective remedies we can use. Two teas I recommend for those with ‘sensitive stomachs’ are the Harmony Tea Co’s Happy Tummy Signature Blend and Spirit Balance Blend Teas. Happy Tummy Tea This is a fantastic tea that aids in digestion, and is...
The term “gut” is synonymous with the digestive tract−primarily the stomach, small and large intestines, but also includes our mouth, esophagus, liver, gallbladder and pancreas. Our gut serves as host to approximately 1,000 unique species of bacteria, both good and bad, that regulate the immune system, aid in food digestion, produce certain key nutrients and protect us from toxins and pathogens. To ensure proper gut health, we need to maintain the proper balance of bacteria. But many of the common medications we use can upset that balance. Some medications you should be mindful of and that can affect gut health include: Antibiotics – We all know that antibiotics can be highly effective in treating serious bacterial infections, but there is...
There is often a lot of confusion about terminology when we discuss food and the reactions it can trigger. Food allergies are an allergic reaction caused by a reaction of the body's immune system to specific proteins in a food. According to a recent publication approximately 7% of Canadians self-report a food allergy. However, fewer are likely to have a physician-diagnosed food allergy, which are estimated at prevalence levels up to 5-6% for young children and 3-4% for adults in westernized countries. In allergic individuals, a food protein is mistakenly identified by the immune system as being harmful. The first time the individual is exposed to such a protein, the body's immune system responds by creating antibodies called immunoglobulin E...
Since sleep issues are far too common I have started to stock quite a few essential oils that help to reduce stress, induce calm and help with sleep. Blends Stress LessNot only does this blend work wonders when diffused at work or home to reduce feelings of stress or anxiety,but this blend can be added to hair and body products or can be used as a personal fragrance to allow you to carry feelings of calm with you throughout the day.Clarity and CalmClarity and Calm is great to diffuse to create peaceful and calm energy wherever you are; home, work, or in your vehicle.This blend contains a combination of Tangerine, Orange for improved focus and concentration as well as Ylang...
