As a Naturopathic Doctor, it is not enough to know that someone is low in certain nutrients, I also want to find out WHY someone might be low in iron, B12 or other important brain supporting nutrients.Is it due to insufficient intake (vegan or vegetarians, poor dietary choices), poor absorption (low stomach acid, heartburn medications) or due to loss (bleeding ulcers, IBD, running, excessive menstrual losses, GI cancer)?Proper supplementation can work to improve many mood disorders, but finding out the root cause of why is also very important. Recent research has looked at the role of various nutrients and how they can improve our mental health. Iron deficiency is one condition that research has shown can lead to or exacerbate...
The power of essential oils to heal is truly amazing. They are so gentle and safe, and yet so incredibly effective. I have loved using them for years and find they help in almost every situation. When I have digestive concerns, there is an oil for that. When I can’t sleep, there is an oil for that and when I’m feeling a bit anxious, oils help that too. Here are a few of my favorites: Tame the Squirrel If you have days that just seem to be a bit much, like you’re here, there and everywhere and feeling a bit anxious that you’re not accomplishing anything, then Tame The Squirrel is the blend for you. It helps instill a sense...
I always try to find the root cause of what my patients are going through, but sometimes it takes time to peel off the layers. And so in order to support them while we put the pieces back together there are a number of fantastic supplements to help support and balance moods. I have used many myself and trust them completely AND they are not contraindicated with other medications and are very safe to use. Neurapas Balance (Pascoe)This is my go-to for anyone suffering from anxiety and low to moderate depression. It contains St John’s Wort, Passionflower and Valerian in a highly researched and well designed formulation.It works almost instantly and can be stopped when not needed with no need...
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...
