Thursday, June 16, 2011
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Friday, June 11, 2010
Eggs: What do the labels mean?
As a naturopathic doctor I see it as my job to educate my patients and give them the facts about food production. Unfortunately I see so many marketing schemes which are fooling people into purchasing the "wrong" product.
When it comes to eggs, we often see this as a very important part of many diets. Eggs contain protein and high quality fats. The fats found in egg yolk are very important for a developing child's brain. The proteins in egg whites are very important for a balanced diet.
Please find below some information on eggs. I hope that you find it useful!
If you are looking for eggs from hens not raised in cages (cage-free), here are a few helpful tips:
Certified Organic:
Hens raised free-range (access to roam outdoors, weather permitting). Hens are given perches, nest boxes and dust bathing areas. Provides the most space per bird. Farms are independently audited for animal welfare.
SPCA Certified:
Hens raised either free-range (access to roam outdoors, weather permitting) or free-run (roam freely inside a barn - no outdoor access). Hens are given perches, nest boxes and dust bathing areas. Farms are independently audited for animal welfare.
Free-Range:
Hens have access to the outdoors (weather permitting). If not "certified", farm is not independently audited for animal welfare standards. Visit the farm or check references for guarantees.
Free-Run:
Hens roam freely inside a barn - no outdoor access. If not "certified", farm is not independently audited for animal welfare standards. Visit the farm or check references for guarantees.
All other eggs:
Are from battery-caged hens. These hens are crammed 5 hens per cage into tiny wire cages so small they can barely move, let alone flap even one wing.
Watch out for misleading labels that only say "Omega-3", "Farm fresh", "Natural", or "Vegetarian Feed", as they all come from battery-caged hens.
Even though cage-free hens are not kept in cages, it does not mean that egg production is completely humane.
When egg production declines - after approximately one year - all hens are slaughtered or killed on farm and used for compost. Because of this, some people choose not to buy eggs at all.
What are your options? Find out more at www.chickenout.ca.
THIS POST IS FROM Chicken Out! at THE VANCOUVER HUMANE SOCIETY. For more information please contact info@chickenout.ca or visit their website at www.chickenout.ca.
THANX FOR READING!
When it comes to eggs, we often see this as a very important part of many diets. Eggs contain protein and high quality fats. The fats found in egg yolk are very important for a developing child's brain. The proteins in egg whites are very important for a balanced diet.
Please find below some information on eggs. I hope that you find it useful!
If you are looking for eggs from hens not raised in cages (cage-free), here are a few helpful tips:
Certified Organic:
Hens raised free-range (access to roam outdoors, weather permitting). Hens are given perches, nest boxes and dust bathing areas. Provides the most space per bird. Farms are independently audited for animal welfare.
SPCA Certified:
Hens raised either free-range (access to roam outdoors, weather permitting) or free-run (roam freely inside a barn - no outdoor access). Hens are given perches, nest boxes and dust bathing areas. Farms are independently audited for animal welfare.
Free-Range:
Hens have access to the outdoors (weather permitting). If not "certified", farm is not independently audited for animal welfare standards. Visit the farm or check references for guarantees.
Free-Run:
Hens roam freely inside a barn - no outdoor access. If not "certified", farm is not independently audited for animal welfare standards. Visit the farm or check references for guarantees.
All other eggs:
Are from battery-caged hens. These hens are crammed 5 hens per cage into tiny wire cages so small they can barely move, let alone flap even one wing.
Watch out for misleading labels that only say "Omega-3", "Farm fresh", "Natural", or "Vegetarian Feed", as they all come from battery-caged hens.
Even though cage-free hens are not kept in cages, it does not mean that egg production is completely humane.
When egg production declines - after approximately one year - all hens are slaughtered or killed on farm and used for compost. Because of this, some people choose not to buy eggs at all.
What are your options? Find out more at www.chickenout.ca.
THIS POST IS FROM Chicken Out! at THE VANCOUVER HUMANE SOCIETY. For more information please contact info@chickenout.ca or visit their website at www.chickenout.ca.
THANX FOR READING!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
United School of Self Defence: Nutrition Lecture Notes
Nutrition Lecture – United Studios of Self Defense
QUIZ
• Complete this sentence..... You are what __EAT_______
• What is better for you and why? Skim Milk or Whole Milk (3.25%)
• Which is better for you and why? Watermelon or an apple?
• What % of the calories in spinach come from protein alone? 30%
• True or False? A vegetarian diet can be complete with all the necessary nutrients required for optimal health.
• What are the key nutrients which a vegetarian/vegan must be ultra conscious to get? Calcium, iron, zinc, protein, omega-3
• True or False? You need to supplement with vitamins in order to maximize your exercise routine?
• True or False? All fish, no matter where it comes from is good for you. Farmed salmon contains up to 40 times more PCB’s per serving than other foods.
• True or False? All tuna is bad. Best: canned chunk light (<6 servings per month), canned albacore (<3 servings per mo.), bigeye, and ahi tuna (avoid completely)
• What are the vegetables and fruits that comprise the “dirty dozen”? Peaches, strawberries, apples, domestic blueberries, nectarines, cherries, imported grapes, celery, sweet bell peppers, spinach, kale, collard greens, potatoes, and lettuce
• What are the fruits and vegetables that comprise the “Clean Fifteen”? Onions, sweet corn, sweet peas, asparagus, cabbage, eggplant, sweet potatoes, avocadoes, pineapples, mango, kiwi, domestic cantaloupe, watermelon, honeydew, and grapefruit
• What is the key mineral required for muscle contraction? Calcium. Leafy greens, almonds, soy, tahini, blackstrap molasses, broccoli
• What is the key mineral required for oxygen transport? Iron. Soy, lentils, spinach, quinoa, blackstrap molasses
• What is the most important spice for controlling blood sugar? Cinnamon • What is the most researched spice for it’s antioxidant potential? Turmeric
• What is the most important meal of the day? Breakfast
• What are the three keys to optimizing your martial arts practice? Strength, flexibility, and endurance.
• How do I avoid muscle fatigue during practice? Hydration, Alkaline diet, high in calcium, and adequate carbohydrate stores
• Which of the following will benefit your martial arts practice? Stress, low blood sugar, food allergies, adequate sleep, excess estrogen, viral infections
• How much sleep should you get and when during the day is sleep most important? Varies from 6-9 hours per night. Sleep before midnight is most important.
• How many times per day should you eat? 3 meals and 2 snacks per day. Breakfast at 7AM, Snack at 10AM, Lunch at 12 noon, Snack at 3PM, Dinner at 6PM. If you are in a martial arts class in the evening, you will require a third snack before bed.
• How many calories should you eat per day? Varies with activity and muscle mass. On average, men require more calories than women.
• Who determines organic certification of food in Canada?
The Organic Products Regulations (OPR) require mandatory certification, by a CFIA accredited Certification Body, to the Canadian Organic Standards (Canadian Organic Production Systems Standards: General Principles and Management Standards and the Permitted Substances Lists) for agricultural products represented as organic in import, export and inter-provincial trade, or that bear the federal organic agricultural product legend (or logo). Imported organic products may also meet the requirements of the Organic Products Regulations by being certified to a standard deemed to be equivalent under an equivalency determination agreement with a foreign country by a Certification Body accredited by that foreign country. [Part 2, Part 4, OPR] The Canada Organic Regime is the Government of Canada's response to requests by the organic sector and consumers to develop a regulated system for organic agricultural products. The Organic Products Regulations are designed to protect consumers against false and misleading organic claims and govern the use of the new organic logo. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency: www.inpection.gc.ca
Basic
• Intake
o Requirements vary according to age, weight, body fat, sex, activity
o Limiting intake can lead to hormonal imbalances and weight gain
Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2009 Mar;41(3):709-31. American College of Sports Medicine position stand. Nutrition and athletic performance.
Adequate food and fluid should be consumed before, during, and after exercise to help maintain blood glucose concentration during exercise, maximize exercise performance, and improve recovery time. Athletes should be well hydrated before exercise and drink enough fluid during and after exercise to balance fluid losses. Sports beverages containing carbohydrates and electrolytes may be consumed before, during, and after exercise to help maintain blood glucose concentration, provide fuel for muscles, and decrease risk of dehydration and hyponatremia. Vitamin and mineral supplements are not needed if adequate energy to maintain body weight is consumed from a variety of foods. However, athletes who restrict energy intake, use severe weight-loss practices, eliminate one or more food groups from their diet, or consume unbalanced diets with low micronutrient density may require supplements
FLUIDS • Water: 1oz/kg body weight per day (does not include teas, caffeine)
o Note: for every glass caffeine, must have twice amount in water
J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2010 Jan 27;7(1):5. International society of sports nutrition position stand: caffeine and performance.
ABSTRACT: Position Statement: The position of The Society regarding caffeine supplementation and sport performance is summarized by the following seven points: 1.) Caffeine is effective for enhancing sport performance in trained athletes when consumed in low-to-moderate dosages (~3-6 mg/kg) and overall does not result in further enhancement in performance when consumed in higher dosages (>/= 9 mg/kg). 2.) Caffeine exerts a greater ergogenic effect when consumed in an anhydrous state as compared to coffee. 3.) It has been shown that caffeine can enhance vigilance during bouts of extended exhaustive exercise, as well as periods of sustained sleep deprivation. 4.) Caffeine is ergogenic for sustained maximal endurance exercise, and has been shown to be highly effective for time-trial performance. 5.) Caffeine supplementation is beneficial for high-intensity exercise, including team sports such as soccer and rugby, both of which are categorized by intermittent activity within a period of prolonged duration. 6.) The literature is equivocal when considering the effects of caffeine supplementation on strength-power performance, and additional research in this area is warranted. 7.) The scientific literature does not support caffeine-induced diuresis during exercise, or any harmful change in fluid balance that would negatively affect performance. Int
J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2009 Dec;19(6):624-44.
The effects of EGCG on fat oxidation and endurance performance in male cyclists. Researchers have long been investigating strategies that can increase athletes' ability to oxidize fatty acids and spare carbohydrate, thus potentially improving endurance capacity. Green-tea extract (epigallocatechin-3-gallate; EGCG) has been shown to improve endurance capacity in mice. If a green-tea extract can stimulate fat oxidation and as a result spare glycogen stores, then athletes may benefit through improved endurance performance. Eight male cyclists completed a study incorporating a 3-way crossover, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, diet-controlled research design. All participants received 3 different treatments (placebo 270 mg, EGCG 270 mg, and placebo 270 mg + caffeine 3 mg/kg) over a 6-day period and 1 hr before exercise testing. Each participant completed 3 exercise trials consisting of 60 min of cycling at 60% maximum oxygen uptake (VO2(max)) immediately followed by a self-paced 40-km cycling time trial. The study found little benefit in consuming green-tea extract on fat oxidation or cycling performance, unlike caffeine, which did benefit cycling performance. The physiological responses observed during submaximal cycling after caffeine ingestion were similar to those reported previously, including an increase in heart rate (EGCG 147 +/- 17, caffeine 146 +/- 19, and placebo 144 +/- 15 beats/min), glucose at the 40-min exercise time point (placebo 5.0 +/- 0.8, EGCG 5.4 +/- 1.0, and caffeine 5.8 +/- 1.0 mmol/L), and resting plasma free fatty acids and no change in the amount of carbohydrate and fat being oxidized. Therefore, it was concluded that green-tea extract offers no additional benefit to cyclists over and above those achieved by using caffeine. Nutrients Snack and meals should be of the following proportion: 25% lean protein, 25% complex carbohydrates, 50% leafy green vegetables. Portions are individualized: 25% is equivalent to the size of your palm and one thumb thick. 50% vegetables is equal to the size of both hands, including fingers, if raw and one hand, including fingers if cooked. Never overcook your vegetables as they will loose key enzymes and vitamins required for optimal health.
Fiber:
Importance: regularity facilitates elimination of body’s waste products Swamp Water Recipe o
Recipe: mix 1 cup each of ground flax, psyllium husks, and oat bran. Add 1.5 tbsp ground turmeric and 1.5 tbsp cinnamon. Take 1 tbsp 2 x per day in 3-5 oz water or sprinkle on salads, oatmeal, or rice/pasta.
o Store in airtight glass container in your refrigerator. Buy whole flax seeds and grind at home in your coffee grinder.
Carbohydrates:
Be very mindful of complex vs. simple carbs (avoid simple carbs). Examples of complex carbohydrates: Squash, Quinoa, Brown Rice, Oatmeal (Whole, not quick), Amaranth, Kashi, Millet, Yams. Examples of simple carbohydrates: White rice, white flour, sugar (indluding fruit sugar and honey)
Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2010 Apr;20(2):154-65.
Glycemic index and endurance performance. Initial research investigating the impact of GI on postexercise recovery indicated consuming high-GI (HGI) CHO increased muscle glycogen resynthesis. However, recent studies indicate an interaction between LGI CHO and fat oxidation, which may play a role in enhancing performance in subsequent exercise. Despite the fact that the relationship between GI and sporting performance has been a topic of research for more than 15 yr, there is no consensus on whether consuming CHO of differing GI improves endurance performance. Until further well-designed research is carried out, athletes are encouraged to follow standard recommendations for CHO consumption and let practical issues and individual experience dictate the use of HGI or LGI meals and supplements before, during, and after exercise.
Fats:
Be very mindful of good and bad fats. Also, be mindful of oxidized fats and fats from seafood. Caution with nuts: eat raw and/or soaked (minimum 6 hours). Do not fry with olive oil. Note that fats carry PCB’s and dioxins, hormones, and other chemicals. Organic fats are important.
Protein:
Take home message: Do not overdo it! 0.7g/kg body weight/day 10 essential amino acids. These do not all have to be consumed at the same time. Cooking denatures amino acids making them less bio-available. Meat protein is more acidic and more difficult to digest.
After intense anaerobic exercise, where lactic acid accumulation is high, and adrenaline is high, you want to avoid acidic foods which are difficult to digest.
Side note on pH: consume alkaline diet, especially after anaerobic exercise. Grains, meat, fish, dairy and beans are very acidic. Foods which are alkaline and high in protein include: cottage cheese, fermented soy, soaked grains, and soaked nuts.
Alcohol: 8kcal/g alcohol (note that fat contains 9kcal/g); affects blood sugar, B vitamin status, appetite etc...
Factors affecting weight
• Sex hormones
• Blood sugar
• Stress
• Toxins
• Food sensitivities/allergies: artificial sweetners, corn, dairy, wheat, soy and gluten, yeast are the most common food allergens. These evoke immune response causing inflammation.
Food ideas
• Canada’s Food Guide – Review
• Fish – Review good choices
• Special foods / herbs
o Cinnamon
o Bitter melon
o Garlic
o Blueberries
o Oolong tea
o Turmeric
o Ginger
o Licorice
Foods to include
Recommended fats (3-4 of the following per day):
Avocado, Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, Cold-water fish, Natural Nut Butters, Cheese (Goat, Sheep), Nut/seed oils, Olives o
Recommended proteins (4-6 of the following per day):
Beans (dried or fresh), Extra lean ground turkey, Chili, Chicken breast (organic, white meat), Crab (sparingly), Extra extra lean ground beef, Egg whites (only 2-6 egg yolks per week), Haddock, Red snapper, Liver, Lobster (sparingly), Extra hard tofu, Natural nut butters, Nuts (sparingly) – almonds are best, Cottage cheese, Wild salmon, Yogurt, Milk, Soy beans, Soy foods (*Tempeh), Swordfish, Shrimp, Turkey breast, Trout, Tuna (NOPE!), Veggie burgers, Wild game (venison, rabbit, buffalo)
Recommended starches – before 1 PM (2-3 of the following per day):
Brown or green pasta, steamed brown rice, steamed wild rice, Whole grains (see other handout) o Recommended Fruits – before 1 PM (2-3 of the following per day): Apples, Bananas, Blueberries (anytime), Blackberries, Cantaloupe (anytime), Grapefruit (anytime), Peaches, Pears, Plums, Pumpkin, Squash, Watermelon (anytime), Pineapple, Raspberries, Strawberries, Tropical fruits o
Recommended Vegetables – anytime (4-6 of the following per day):
Arugula, Asparagus, Artichoke, Beans (string), Beets, Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Cabbage, Celery, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Kale, Kohlrabi, Lettuce, Mushrooms, Parsley, Parsnips, Peas, Peppers, Radishes, Rutabagas, Snow peas, Spinach, Tomato, Turnips, Watercress, Yams/Sweet potato, Zucchini •
Foods to avoid
All Processed foods, Cakes, Candy, Cream dressings / sauces, Chips, Dried Fruits, Ice Cream, Processed Cereals, Flour gravy, Fried Foods, Fruit Juices, Mayonnaise, Margarine, Pop (Diet and Reg), Sugar added Jams/jellies, Pies and Pastries, White Pastas (processed), Sugar (white or brown), Rice cakes, Deli meats and bacon
Discussion:
Healthy Breakfasts:
• Whole Oats with 1 tbsp nuts, milk (or milk alternative), and 1⁄4 c organic berries.
• 2 Organic Eggs, Whole grain bread, Fruit
• Avocado and Whole grain bread
• Organic Yogurt and Muesli
• Baked organic chicken breast, or wild salmon with baked red peppers and cream cheese on whole grain toast.
Healthy Snacks:
• Vegetable sticks with tzatziki, or hummous, or baba ganouj
• 1⁄4 c raw nuts with vegetables or fruit
• Organic cheese and crackers with vegetable sticks
Healthy Lunches:
Healthy Dinners:
Grocery Stores:
• Famous Foods: 1595 Kingsway (@ King Edward Ave, i.e. 25th Ave)
• Donald’s Market: 2342 East Hastings Street (@ Nanaimo St), 2279 Commercial Drive (@ 6th Street)
Cookbooks:
• Veganomicon. Isa Chandra Moskowitz, Terry Hope Romero.
• How it all Vegan. Sarah Kramer and Tanya Barnard
• Jamie's Food Revolution: Rediscover How to Cook Simple, Delicious, Affordable Meals. Jamie Oliver
Resources:
• Environmental Working Group: for information on pesticide content of fruits and vegetables: www.ewg.org
• Health Canada Food and Nutrition: for a customized food pyramid for kids and adults and other information on health and food recalls. www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fnan/index-eng.php
• Organic Agriculture Center of Canada: for information on the policies and procedures governing Organic Farming: www.organicagcentre.ca
• The Cove Movie: for information on mercury content of fish: www.thecovemovie.com/educate.htm
• Pub Med: Online Medical Journal Site: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
• David Suzuki Foundation: for information on health and wellbeing: www.davidsuzuki.org
• Calorie Counter: to assess food intake and requirements: www.my-calorie-counter.com
• Food Inc Movie: For information on farming practices and how it affects your health: www.foodincmovie.com
Thank-you for being a part of this nutrition lecture. I hope that you have learned something new which will enrich your martial arts practice and your life. Yours in health,
Dr. Jolene Kennett, B.Sc., N.D.
200-1401 Lonsdale Ave.
North Vancouver, BC
p. 604.986.9355
web: www.oceanwellness.ca
email: info@oceanwellness.ca
QUIZ
• Complete this sentence..... You are what __EAT_______
• What is better for you and why? Skim Milk or Whole Milk (3.25%)
• Which is better for you and why? Watermelon or an apple?
• What % of the calories in spinach come from protein alone? 30%
• True or False? A vegetarian diet can be complete with all the necessary nutrients required for optimal health.
• What are the key nutrients which a vegetarian/vegan must be ultra conscious to get? Calcium, iron, zinc, protein, omega-3
• True or False? You need to supplement with vitamins in order to maximize your exercise routine?
• True or False? All fish, no matter where it comes from is good for you. Farmed salmon contains up to 40 times more PCB’s per serving than other foods.
• True or False? All tuna is bad. Best: canned chunk light (<6 servings per month), canned albacore (<3 servings per mo.), bigeye, and ahi tuna (avoid completely)
• What are the vegetables and fruits that comprise the “dirty dozen”? Peaches, strawberries, apples, domestic blueberries, nectarines, cherries, imported grapes, celery, sweet bell peppers, spinach, kale, collard greens, potatoes, and lettuce
• What are the fruits and vegetables that comprise the “Clean Fifteen”? Onions, sweet corn, sweet peas, asparagus, cabbage, eggplant, sweet potatoes, avocadoes, pineapples, mango, kiwi, domestic cantaloupe, watermelon, honeydew, and grapefruit
• What is the key mineral required for muscle contraction? Calcium. Leafy greens, almonds, soy, tahini, blackstrap molasses, broccoli
• What is the key mineral required for oxygen transport? Iron. Soy, lentils, spinach, quinoa, blackstrap molasses
• What is the most important spice for controlling blood sugar? Cinnamon • What is the most researched spice for it’s antioxidant potential? Turmeric
• What is the most important meal of the day? Breakfast
• What are the three keys to optimizing your martial arts practice? Strength, flexibility, and endurance.
• How do I avoid muscle fatigue during practice? Hydration, Alkaline diet, high in calcium, and adequate carbohydrate stores
• Which of the following will benefit your martial arts practice? Stress, low blood sugar, food allergies, adequate sleep, excess estrogen, viral infections
• How much sleep should you get and when during the day is sleep most important? Varies from 6-9 hours per night. Sleep before midnight is most important.
• How many times per day should you eat? 3 meals and 2 snacks per day. Breakfast at 7AM, Snack at 10AM, Lunch at 12 noon, Snack at 3PM, Dinner at 6PM. If you are in a martial arts class in the evening, you will require a third snack before bed.
• How many calories should you eat per day? Varies with activity and muscle mass. On average, men require more calories than women.
• Who determines organic certification of food in Canada?
The Organic Products Regulations (OPR) require mandatory certification, by a CFIA accredited Certification Body, to the Canadian Organic Standards (Canadian Organic Production Systems Standards: General Principles and Management Standards and the Permitted Substances Lists) for agricultural products represented as organic in import, export and inter-provincial trade, or that bear the federal organic agricultural product legend (or logo). Imported organic products may also meet the requirements of the Organic Products Regulations by being certified to a standard deemed to be equivalent under an equivalency determination agreement with a foreign country by a Certification Body accredited by that foreign country. [Part 2, Part 4, OPR] The Canada Organic Regime is the Government of Canada's response to requests by the organic sector and consumers to develop a regulated system for organic agricultural products. The Organic Products Regulations are designed to protect consumers against false and misleading organic claims and govern the use of the new organic logo. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency: www.inpection.gc.ca
Basic
• Intake
o Requirements vary according to age, weight, body fat, sex, activity
o Limiting intake can lead to hormonal imbalances and weight gain
Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2009 Mar;41(3):709-31. American College of Sports Medicine position stand. Nutrition and athletic performance.
Adequate food and fluid should be consumed before, during, and after exercise to help maintain blood glucose concentration during exercise, maximize exercise performance, and improve recovery time. Athletes should be well hydrated before exercise and drink enough fluid during and after exercise to balance fluid losses. Sports beverages containing carbohydrates and electrolytes may be consumed before, during, and after exercise to help maintain blood glucose concentration, provide fuel for muscles, and decrease risk of dehydration and hyponatremia. Vitamin and mineral supplements are not needed if adequate energy to maintain body weight is consumed from a variety of foods. However, athletes who restrict energy intake, use severe weight-loss practices, eliminate one or more food groups from their diet, or consume unbalanced diets with low micronutrient density may require supplements
FLUIDS • Water: 1oz/kg body weight per day (does not include teas, caffeine)
o Note: for every glass caffeine, must have twice amount in water
J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2010 Jan 27;7(1):5. International society of sports nutrition position stand: caffeine and performance.
ABSTRACT: Position Statement: The position of The Society regarding caffeine supplementation and sport performance is summarized by the following seven points: 1.) Caffeine is effective for enhancing sport performance in trained athletes when consumed in low-to-moderate dosages (~3-6 mg/kg) and overall does not result in further enhancement in performance when consumed in higher dosages (>/= 9 mg/kg). 2.) Caffeine exerts a greater ergogenic effect when consumed in an anhydrous state as compared to coffee. 3.) It has been shown that caffeine can enhance vigilance during bouts of extended exhaustive exercise, as well as periods of sustained sleep deprivation. 4.) Caffeine is ergogenic for sustained maximal endurance exercise, and has been shown to be highly effective for time-trial performance. 5.) Caffeine supplementation is beneficial for high-intensity exercise, including team sports such as soccer and rugby, both of which are categorized by intermittent activity within a period of prolonged duration. 6.) The literature is equivocal when considering the effects of caffeine supplementation on strength-power performance, and additional research in this area is warranted. 7.) The scientific literature does not support caffeine-induced diuresis during exercise, or any harmful change in fluid balance that would negatively affect performance. Int
J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2009 Dec;19(6):624-44.
The effects of EGCG on fat oxidation and endurance performance in male cyclists. Researchers have long been investigating strategies that can increase athletes' ability to oxidize fatty acids and spare carbohydrate, thus potentially improving endurance capacity. Green-tea extract (epigallocatechin-3-gallate; EGCG) has been shown to improve endurance capacity in mice. If a green-tea extract can stimulate fat oxidation and as a result spare glycogen stores, then athletes may benefit through improved endurance performance. Eight male cyclists completed a study incorporating a 3-way crossover, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, diet-controlled research design. All participants received 3 different treatments (placebo 270 mg, EGCG 270 mg, and placebo 270 mg + caffeine 3 mg/kg) over a 6-day period and 1 hr before exercise testing. Each participant completed 3 exercise trials consisting of 60 min of cycling at 60% maximum oxygen uptake (VO2(max)) immediately followed by a self-paced 40-km cycling time trial. The study found little benefit in consuming green-tea extract on fat oxidation or cycling performance, unlike caffeine, which did benefit cycling performance. The physiological responses observed during submaximal cycling after caffeine ingestion were similar to those reported previously, including an increase in heart rate (EGCG 147 +/- 17, caffeine 146 +/- 19, and placebo 144 +/- 15 beats/min), glucose at the 40-min exercise time point (placebo 5.0 +/- 0.8, EGCG 5.4 +/- 1.0, and caffeine 5.8 +/- 1.0 mmol/L), and resting plasma free fatty acids and no change in the amount of carbohydrate and fat being oxidized. Therefore, it was concluded that green-tea extract offers no additional benefit to cyclists over and above those achieved by using caffeine. Nutrients Snack and meals should be of the following proportion: 25% lean protein, 25% complex carbohydrates, 50% leafy green vegetables. Portions are individualized: 25% is equivalent to the size of your palm and one thumb thick. 50% vegetables is equal to the size of both hands, including fingers, if raw and one hand, including fingers if cooked. Never overcook your vegetables as they will loose key enzymes and vitamins required for optimal health.
Fiber:
Importance: regularity facilitates elimination of body’s waste products Swamp Water Recipe o
Recipe: mix 1 cup each of ground flax, psyllium husks, and oat bran. Add 1.5 tbsp ground turmeric and 1.5 tbsp cinnamon. Take 1 tbsp 2 x per day in 3-5 oz water or sprinkle on salads, oatmeal, or rice/pasta.
o Store in airtight glass container in your refrigerator. Buy whole flax seeds and grind at home in your coffee grinder.
Carbohydrates:
Be very mindful of complex vs. simple carbs (avoid simple carbs). Examples of complex carbohydrates: Squash, Quinoa, Brown Rice, Oatmeal (Whole, not quick), Amaranth, Kashi, Millet, Yams. Examples of simple carbohydrates: White rice, white flour, sugar (indluding fruit sugar and honey)
Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2010 Apr;20(2):154-65.
Glycemic index and endurance performance. Initial research investigating the impact of GI on postexercise recovery indicated consuming high-GI (HGI) CHO increased muscle glycogen resynthesis. However, recent studies indicate an interaction between LGI CHO and fat oxidation, which may play a role in enhancing performance in subsequent exercise. Despite the fact that the relationship between GI and sporting performance has been a topic of research for more than 15 yr, there is no consensus on whether consuming CHO of differing GI improves endurance performance. Until further well-designed research is carried out, athletes are encouraged to follow standard recommendations for CHO consumption and let practical issues and individual experience dictate the use of HGI or LGI meals and supplements before, during, and after exercise.
Fats:
Be very mindful of good and bad fats. Also, be mindful of oxidized fats and fats from seafood. Caution with nuts: eat raw and/or soaked (minimum 6 hours). Do not fry with olive oil. Note that fats carry PCB’s and dioxins, hormones, and other chemicals. Organic fats are important.
Protein:
Take home message: Do not overdo it! 0.7g/kg body weight/day 10 essential amino acids. These do not all have to be consumed at the same time. Cooking denatures amino acids making them less bio-available. Meat protein is more acidic and more difficult to digest.
After intense anaerobic exercise, where lactic acid accumulation is high, and adrenaline is high, you want to avoid acidic foods which are difficult to digest.
Side note on pH: consume alkaline diet, especially after anaerobic exercise. Grains, meat, fish, dairy and beans are very acidic. Foods which are alkaline and high in protein include: cottage cheese, fermented soy, soaked grains, and soaked nuts.
Alcohol: 8kcal/g alcohol (note that fat contains 9kcal/g); affects blood sugar, B vitamin status, appetite etc...
Factors affecting weight
• Sex hormones
• Blood sugar
• Stress
• Toxins
• Food sensitivities/allergies: artificial sweetners, corn, dairy, wheat, soy and gluten, yeast are the most common food allergens. These evoke immune response causing inflammation.
Food ideas
• Canada’s Food Guide – Review
• Fish – Review good choices
• Special foods / herbs
o Cinnamon
o Bitter melon
o Garlic
o Blueberries
o Oolong tea
o Turmeric
o Ginger
o Licorice
Foods to include
Recommended fats (3-4 of the following per day):
Avocado, Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, Cold-water fish, Natural Nut Butters, Cheese (Goat, Sheep), Nut/seed oils, Olives o
Recommended proteins (4-6 of the following per day):
Beans (dried or fresh), Extra lean ground turkey, Chili, Chicken breast (organic, white meat), Crab (sparingly), Extra extra lean ground beef, Egg whites (only 2-6 egg yolks per week), Haddock, Red snapper, Liver, Lobster (sparingly), Extra hard tofu, Natural nut butters, Nuts (sparingly) – almonds are best, Cottage cheese, Wild salmon, Yogurt, Milk, Soy beans, Soy foods (*Tempeh), Swordfish, Shrimp, Turkey breast, Trout, Tuna (NOPE!), Veggie burgers, Wild game (venison, rabbit, buffalo)
Recommended starches – before 1 PM (2-3 of the following per day):
Brown or green pasta, steamed brown rice, steamed wild rice, Whole grains (see other handout) o Recommended Fruits – before 1 PM (2-3 of the following per day): Apples, Bananas, Blueberries (anytime), Blackberries, Cantaloupe (anytime), Grapefruit (anytime), Peaches, Pears, Plums, Pumpkin, Squash, Watermelon (anytime), Pineapple, Raspberries, Strawberries, Tropical fruits o
Recommended Vegetables – anytime (4-6 of the following per day):
Arugula, Asparagus, Artichoke, Beans (string), Beets, Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Cabbage, Celery, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Kale, Kohlrabi, Lettuce, Mushrooms, Parsley, Parsnips, Peas, Peppers, Radishes, Rutabagas, Snow peas, Spinach, Tomato, Turnips, Watercress, Yams/Sweet potato, Zucchini •
Foods to avoid
All Processed foods, Cakes, Candy, Cream dressings / sauces, Chips, Dried Fruits, Ice Cream, Processed Cereals, Flour gravy, Fried Foods, Fruit Juices, Mayonnaise, Margarine, Pop (Diet and Reg), Sugar added Jams/jellies, Pies and Pastries, White Pastas (processed), Sugar (white or brown), Rice cakes, Deli meats and bacon
Discussion:
Healthy Breakfasts:
• Whole Oats with 1 tbsp nuts, milk (or milk alternative), and 1⁄4 c organic berries.
• 2 Organic Eggs, Whole grain bread, Fruit
• Avocado and Whole grain bread
• Organic Yogurt and Muesli
• Baked organic chicken breast, or wild salmon with baked red peppers and cream cheese on whole grain toast.
Healthy Snacks:
• Vegetable sticks with tzatziki, or hummous, or baba ganouj
• 1⁄4 c raw nuts with vegetables or fruit
• Organic cheese and crackers with vegetable sticks
Healthy Lunches:
Healthy Dinners:
Grocery Stores:
• Famous Foods: 1595 Kingsway (@ King Edward Ave, i.e. 25th Ave)
• Donald’s Market: 2342 East Hastings Street (@ Nanaimo St), 2279 Commercial Drive (@ 6th Street)
Cookbooks:
• Veganomicon. Isa Chandra Moskowitz, Terry Hope Romero.
• How it all Vegan. Sarah Kramer and Tanya Barnard
• Jamie's Food Revolution: Rediscover How to Cook Simple, Delicious, Affordable Meals. Jamie Oliver
Resources:
• Environmental Working Group: for information on pesticide content of fruits and vegetables: www.ewg.org
• Health Canada Food and Nutrition: for a customized food pyramid for kids and adults and other information on health and food recalls. www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fnan/index-eng.php
• Organic Agriculture Center of Canada: for information on the policies and procedures governing Organic Farming: www.organicagcentre.ca
• The Cove Movie: for information on mercury content of fish: www.thecovemovie.com/educate.htm
• Pub Med: Online Medical Journal Site: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/
• David Suzuki Foundation: for information on health and wellbeing: www.davidsuzuki.org
• Calorie Counter: to assess food intake and requirements: www.my-calorie-counter.com
• Food Inc Movie: For information on farming practices and how it affects your health: www.foodincmovie.com
Thank-you for being a part of this nutrition lecture. I hope that you have learned something new which will enrich your martial arts practice and your life. Yours in health,
Dr. Jolene Kennett, B.Sc., N.D.
200-1401 Lonsdale Ave.
North Vancouver, BC
p. 604.986.9355
web: www.oceanwellness.ca
email: info@oceanwellness.ca
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Cardiac Life Support Training for Naturopathic Doctors
Naturopathic Doctors who preform intravenous and chelation therapy require additional certification in 2010 called ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support.
I have recently been granted certification in ACLS and wanted to share with my patients that I am now able to identify and manage cardiac arrest situations. But... just a little side note: After learning that cardiac arrest outcome depends on excellent CPR skills and early defibrillation, I encourage all my patients to update their CPR skills. CPR courses are available through St. John's Ambulance (www.sja.ca) and Red Cross (www.redcross.ca).
Cardiac defibrillators, machines that deliver electrical impulses to the heart, are now being found in sports arenas, shopping centers and public places.
If you are close to someone who is has an increased risk of heart attack, it may be worthwhile to purchase an automatic electrical defibrillator (AED) and keep it in your car, or bring it with you camping, or leave it at your holiday cabin in the woods, or take it with you anywhere that you may have a delay before paramedic arrival.
I have recently been granted certification in ACLS and wanted to share with my patients that I am now able to identify and manage cardiac arrest situations. But... just a little side note: After learning that cardiac arrest outcome depends on excellent CPR skills and early defibrillation, I encourage all my patients to update their CPR skills. CPR courses are available through St. John's Ambulance (www.sja.ca) and Red Cross (www.redcross.ca).
Cardiac defibrillators, machines that deliver electrical impulses to the heart, are now being found in sports arenas, shopping centers and public places.
If you are close to someone who is has an increased risk of heart attack, it may be worthwhile to purchase an automatic electrical defibrillator (AED) and keep it in your car, or bring it with you camping, or leave it at your holiday cabin in the woods, or take it with you anywhere that you may have a delay before paramedic arrival.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Vitamin B3 and Statins
Studies show an improvement in lipid profiles when statin drugs are combined with Vitamin B3. The mechanism is unknown yet marked reduction in thickness of vessel walls were noted.
See New England Journal of Medicine, 362:1046-1048, Vol 11, 18Mar10
See New England Journal of Medicine, 362:1046-1048, Vol 11, 18Mar10
Friday, January 1, 2010
Questions and Answers about Perscribing rights for ND's in BC
For many decades, BC’s naturopathic physicians have been seeking from government recognition for a scope of practice in keeping with the contemporary and historical practice of NDs. In the 2008 Throne Speech, the BC Liberals made a commitment to proceed with two facets of naturopathic medical care: prescriptive rights and diagnostic facility access. The process leading to this announcement involved many years of negotiation, research, and collaborative assessment. The government’s commitment is based on this lengthy and detailed process; it is a commitment based on sound judgement having reviewed the educational criteria, current and historical practice of NDs, and, most importantly, ensuring the highest levels of patient-centred health care are available to all British Columbians. The BCNA believes that this commitment is the right choice for British Columbians: It reduces the existing burden on MDs while ensuring the provision of safe and effective primary health care in a measured fashion. This document addresses some of the questions that have arisen during the negotiation process.
Why Seek Prescribing Rights Now?
Access to a “schedule of preparations” is an issue that has been in negotiation with government for over 50 years. The naturopathic profession was in fact regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons from 1921 until 1936 when the Naturopathic Physicians Act was proclaimed. Prior to 1936 all naturopathic physicians were given the ability to prescribe exactly the same substances as allopathic physicians; however, with the new Act, prescribing ability was left undefined. Since 1936 the naturopathic profession has been waiting patiently for their formulary to be formally approved by government, yet all previous governments have failed to act. Naturopathic physicians have continued to prescribe traditional substances to the benefit of our patients and without harm to the public. We expect this government to be bold and step up to the plate and solve this issue. When the BC Liberals made a Throne Speech commitment in 2008, the BCNA applauded the government’s willingness to take this important and essential step to providing a better health care system for all British Columbians.
Why do Naturopathic Doctors Need Prescription Medications?
Making a prescription is fundamental to the practice of medicine in any and all forms. Another element, however, is that over the decades NDs have lost access to many botanical medicines and natural therapeutics. These “traditional” substances, such as high dose vitamins, some amino acids, hormones, botanicals and herbs, which NDs have used for decades, have slowly become “scheduled”—right here in B.C. But more importantly, NDs are providing primary care without the capacity to practice at the full extent of their skills and expertise. Naturopathic physicians have traditionally acted as primary care practitioners and continue to do so today. As such, it is imperative that NDs be allowed to retain their historical right to prescribe. The existing bias is further exacerbated by allowing other professions schedules without addressing the issue in this profession. And in some cases, as with MDs, core competency, education and training were not required for theuse of the naturopathic pharmacopoeia. One example is that MDs are free to practice all forms of complementary medicine without constraint or oversight.
How Does Prescribing Impact Patients?
At present, the lack of access to some pharmaceuticals puts naturopathic physicians in a position of ambiguity. It leads to confusion both on the part of the practicing ND and the patient, vis-à-vis patient protocols. Worse, it impairs the College of Naturopathic Physicians, the licensing body, from fulfilling its regulatory function. This issue has been outstanding for decades, and has been continually perpetuated by successive governments. As drug laws have changed, and as natural items have become scheduled, the historical naturopathic formulary is now seriously eroded. As this process drags on and governments change the cycle repeats itself. The naturopathic profession is between a rock and a hard place. On one hand NDs are bound by the same legal duties and obligations as MDs. On the other hand, NDs lack, due to government neglect, the supporting legislative mandate that would allow us to fulfill these proscribed legal duties and obligations. This discrepancy carries with it an inherent danger to the public and to the naturopathic profession. A case in point is bronchial pneumonia where the naturopathic physician deems antibiotics are required, yet cannot prescribe them. This inability to prescribe places the patient at risk due to the delay in receiving proper medical treatment.
Do Naturopathic Physicians (NDs) have the Education Required to Prescribe Medicines? NDs already prescribe pharmaceuticals in many jurisdictions across North America. They could not prescribe if their education excluded pharmacology and pharmacognosy training. [Pharmacognosy is the study of medicines derived from natural sources. The American Society of Pharmacognosy defines pharmacognosy as “the study of the physical, chemical, biochemical and biological properties of drugs, drug substances or potential drugs or drug substances of natural origin as well as the search for new drugs from natural sources.’] All licensed naturopathic physicians complete a minimum of three-years university level pre-medical training, then four years at an accredited naturopathic medical college. [There are two in Canada and four in the USA.] Following pre-med, the fouryear ND program covers many of the same science courses as at “conventional” medical school. Drug education is of course a core part of pharmacology training, but also an inherent part of biochemistry, microbiology, physiology, botanical medicine, pathology and other core science courses in the ND curricula. Pharmacology training for NDs is similar to the training MDs receive: It is focussed on the principles of pharmacodynamics, including drug absorption, metabolism, distribution, excretion and mechanism of action. All students must be able to classify and describe the pharmacodynamics, side effects and therapeutic uses of drug prototypes from the myriad conventional drug classes. In addition, the ND must thoroughly understand the pharmacology of all natural substances. Upon graduation from the four-year ND program, each doctor must pass internationally standardized licensing exams. Pharmacology is one specific exam—as well, pharmacology as a subject is covered in many other exams, including the clinical therapeutic courses such as botanical medicine and nutritional medicine, physical, clinical, and lab diagnosis, diagnostic imaging, minor surgery and emergency medicine.
Do Naturopathic Physicians Licenced In Other Jurisdictions Prescribe? Yes. Naturopathic physicians in various US jurisdictions with similar education and training and identical licensing requirements as in BC already use “scheduled” substances in their naturopathic practices on a daily basis. But a more important point is that many “traditional” substances, such as high dose vitamins, some amino acids, hormones, botanicals and herbs, which NDs have used for decades, have slowly become “scheduled”—right here in B.C. Imagine a medical doctor losing the ability to run diagnostic tests or prescribe an antibiotic, or a surgeon unable to use anaesthetics. That’s exactly what’s happened over the years to naturopathic doctors in terms of many traditional medicines. In addition, naturopathic physicians have demonstrated extensive education and training as well as historical and contemporary safe and effective usage of scheduled substances, especially those items which have been moved from over-the-counter status to prescription only. The safety record speaks for itself. Naturopathic medicine, like allopathic medicine, is an evolving art and science and as such requires a formulary and legislation that reflects the changing nature of medicine and healthcare. Further, being granted the right to prescribe represents the trend in most health care professions. Examples include pharmacists, psychologists, nurse practitioners, midwives, optometrists, etc.; some of whom have considerably less clinical education than NDs.
Will There Be Conflict Between MDs and NDs? There is no reason or rationale for conflict. Naturopathic doctors are already using various therapeutics to treat patients, as are MDs. The only change would be that some additional therapeutics will become available to NDs. Dentists, for example, have access to all scheduled substances yet the vast majority of practicing dentists use only a very small number of items: antibiotics, analgesics and local anaesthetics. There is no conflict between dentist and doctor, just as there would be no conflict between MD and ND. It’s important to remember that in BC we have a “shared scopes of practice” model whereby, for example, MDs, NDs, acupuncturists and physiotherapists all have the ability to obtain licensure in acupuncture. Many elements of scope of practice are common amongst two or more health professions. This is just another element of the existing medical model.
What Will Occur if the Government Fails to Act?
Health care for all British Columbians will suffer. The current shortage of primary care practitioners will be further impaired. The unique skills that NDs bring to the health care table—a focus on disease prevention, patient-centred health care, and extensive expertise in the compounding and dispensing of natural therapeutics—will be eroded or lost.
What About Patient Safety? If Naturopathic Physicians Haven’t Dealt With Prescription Drugs in the Past, How are they Eligible for the Added Responsibility?
Naturopathic doctors deal with prescription medicines on a daily basis: With patients already on a drug regime, considering pharmaceuticals and/or an alternative, drug/non-drug interactions, and myriad other interconnected health issues. The substantial change with new regulations won’t be so much an added responsibility, but rather the ability to improve patient care. Currently, hundreds of thousands of BC residents see naturopathic doctors for care, many for primary care, and BC’s licensed NDs attend to over a million patient visits each year.
Won’t it Confuse Patients Already on Prescription Medications?
Given the shared scopes of model already in existence, there should be no confusion. Many patients may see, for example, an ND, physiotherapist, chiropractor, acupuncturist and MD over the course of a year, sometimes simultaneously. Shared scopes of practice is the status quo in BC. Even for a patient seeing both a general practitioner and specialist, they may be under two different “traditional” protocols without confusion or error. But this question also begs a further clarification. There is a difference between prescriptions for chronic and acute conditions. A patient on medication for, say, depression, and seeing an ND, would require immediate attention for an acute condition such as bronchitis. The provision for access to scheduled drugs allows for more effective, timely and appropriate medical care.
Why do Naturopathic Physicians Want This Change in Regulation?
Strictly speaking, naturopathic doctors don’t “want” the change in regulation, they require it—to provide safe, effective, economical preventative health care. The regulation changes are in keeping with a “shared scopes of practice” model being implemented across the province—whereby many health professions have access to prescription items relevant to their respective practice. The change is in keeping with the record of safety and effectiveness of this profession, and ensuring that modalities arbitrarily removed, over time, continue to be used appropriately and in a timely fashion.
Don’t Naturopathic Doctors Only Use “Natural” Medicines?
No and yes. Even to this day many prescription drugs are derived from natural sources—where there is overlap and emphasis in naturopathic medical training. Some “natural” medicines are prescription only (e.g., amino acids, high-dose vitamins). But really this is a question about employing basic medical diagnosis and laboratory analysis. Naturopathic doctors’ primary focus is on treating the underlying nature or cause of disease. Put simply, naturopathic medicine is the “nature” of the “pathos” or disease, not simply “natural” medicines. This focus is about supporting the natural healing processes of the patient, not simply using a product. Thus, naturopathic medicine is about the removal of any impediment to the healing process; the prevention and treatment of physical and mental disease, disorders and conditions; and the promotion of good health using not only natural methods but methods that support and enhance a patient’s overall health. Unfortunately, even those “natural” medicines naturopathic doctors have used for many decades are often, now, by prescription only.
The BCNA believes that the government’s commitment to providing a schedule of preparations for licensed naturopathic physicians is in keeping with a public responsibility to: Ensure shared scopes of practice; improve access to primary health providers; enhancing disease prevention from qualified health professionals; providing greater public choice while not increasing health care costs.
Why Seek Prescribing Rights Now?
Access to a “schedule of preparations” is an issue that has been in negotiation with government for over 50 years. The naturopathic profession was in fact regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons from 1921 until 1936 when the Naturopathic Physicians Act was proclaimed. Prior to 1936 all naturopathic physicians were given the ability to prescribe exactly the same substances as allopathic physicians; however, with the new Act, prescribing ability was left undefined. Since 1936 the naturopathic profession has been waiting patiently for their formulary to be formally approved by government, yet all previous governments have failed to act. Naturopathic physicians have continued to prescribe traditional substances to the benefit of our patients and without harm to the public. We expect this government to be bold and step up to the plate and solve this issue. When the BC Liberals made a Throne Speech commitment in 2008, the BCNA applauded the government’s willingness to take this important and essential step to providing a better health care system for all British Columbians.
Why do Naturopathic Doctors Need Prescription Medications?
Making a prescription is fundamental to the practice of medicine in any and all forms. Another element, however, is that over the decades NDs have lost access to many botanical medicines and natural therapeutics. These “traditional” substances, such as high dose vitamins, some amino acids, hormones, botanicals and herbs, which NDs have used for decades, have slowly become “scheduled”—right here in B.C. But more importantly, NDs are providing primary care without the capacity to practice at the full extent of their skills and expertise. Naturopathic physicians have traditionally acted as primary care practitioners and continue to do so today. As such, it is imperative that NDs be allowed to retain their historical right to prescribe. The existing bias is further exacerbated by allowing other professions schedules without addressing the issue in this profession. And in some cases, as with MDs, core competency, education and training were not required for theuse of the naturopathic pharmacopoeia. One example is that MDs are free to practice all forms of complementary medicine without constraint or oversight.
How Does Prescribing Impact Patients?
At present, the lack of access to some pharmaceuticals puts naturopathic physicians in a position of ambiguity. It leads to confusion both on the part of the practicing ND and the patient, vis-à-vis patient protocols. Worse, it impairs the College of Naturopathic Physicians, the licensing body, from fulfilling its regulatory function. This issue has been outstanding for decades, and has been continually perpetuated by successive governments. As drug laws have changed, and as natural items have become scheduled, the historical naturopathic formulary is now seriously eroded. As this process drags on and governments change the cycle repeats itself. The naturopathic profession is between a rock and a hard place. On one hand NDs are bound by the same legal duties and obligations as MDs. On the other hand, NDs lack, due to government neglect, the supporting legislative mandate that would allow us to fulfill these proscribed legal duties and obligations. This discrepancy carries with it an inherent danger to the public and to the naturopathic profession. A case in point is bronchial pneumonia where the naturopathic physician deems antibiotics are required, yet cannot prescribe them. This inability to prescribe places the patient at risk due to the delay in receiving proper medical treatment.
Do Naturopathic Physicians (NDs) have the Education Required to Prescribe Medicines? NDs already prescribe pharmaceuticals in many jurisdictions across North America. They could not prescribe if their education excluded pharmacology and pharmacognosy training. [Pharmacognosy is the study of medicines derived from natural sources. The American Society of Pharmacognosy defines pharmacognosy as “the study of the physical, chemical, biochemical and biological properties of drugs, drug substances or potential drugs or drug substances of natural origin as well as the search for new drugs from natural sources.’] All licensed naturopathic physicians complete a minimum of three-years university level pre-medical training, then four years at an accredited naturopathic medical college. [There are two in Canada and four in the USA.] Following pre-med, the fouryear ND program covers many of the same science courses as at “conventional” medical school. Drug education is of course a core part of pharmacology training, but also an inherent part of biochemistry, microbiology, physiology, botanical medicine, pathology and other core science courses in the ND curricula. Pharmacology training for NDs is similar to the training MDs receive: It is focussed on the principles of pharmacodynamics, including drug absorption, metabolism, distribution, excretion and mechanism of action. All students must be able to classify and describe the pharmacodynamics, side effects and therapeutic uses of drug prototypes from the myriad conventional drug classes. In addition, the ND must thoroughly understand the pharmacology of all natural substances. Upon graduation from the four-year ND program, each doctor must pass internationally standardized licensing exams. Pharmacology is one specific exam—as well, pharmacology as a subject is covered in many other exams, including the clinical therapeutic courses such as botanical medicine and nutritional medicine, physical, clinical, and lab diagnosis, diagnostic imaging, minor surgery and emergency medicine.
Do Naturopathic Physicians Licenced In Other Jurisdictions Prescribe? Yes. Naturopathic physicians in various US jurisdictions with similar education and training and identical licensing requirements as in BC already use “scheduled” substances in their naturopathic practices on a daily basis. But a more important point is that many “traditional” substances, such as high dose vitamins, some amino acids, hormones, botanicals and herbs, which NDs have used for decades, have slowly become “scheduled”—right here in B.C. Imagine a medical doctor losing the ability to run diagnostic tests or prescribe an antibiotic, or a surgeon unable to use anaesthetics. That’s exactly what’s happened over the years to naturopathic doctors in terms of many traditional medicines. In addition, naturopathic physicians have demonstrated extensive education and training as well as historical and contemporary safe and effective usage of scheduled substances, especially those items which have been moved from over-the-counter status to prescription only. The safety record speaks for itself. Naturopathic medicine, like allopathic medicine, is an evolving art and science and as such requires a formulary and legislation that reflects the changing nature of medicine and healthcare. Further, being granted the right to prescribe represents the trend in most health care professions. Examples include pharmacists, psychologists, nurse practitioners, midwives, optometrists, etc.; some of whom have considerably less clinical education than NDs.
Will There Be Conflict Between MDs and NDs? There is no reason or rationale for conflict. Naturopathic doctors are already using various therapeutics to treat patients, as are MDs. The only change would be that some additional therapeutics will become available to NDs. Dentists, for example, have access to all scheduled substances yet the vast majority of practicing dentists use only a very small number of items: antibiotics, analgesics and local anaesthetics. There is no conflict between dentist and doctor, just as there would be no conflict between MD and ND. It’s important to remember that in BC we have a “shared scopes of practice” model whereby, for example, MDs, NDs, acupuncturists and physiotherapists all have the ability to obtain licensure in acupuncture. Many elements of scope of practice are common amongst two or more health professions. This is just another element of the existing medical model.
What Will Occur if the Government Fails to Act?
Health care for all British Columbians will suffer. The current shortage of primary care practitioners will be further impaired. The unique skills that NDs bring to the health care table—a focus on disease prevention, patient-centred health care, and extensive expertise in the compounding and dispensing of natural therapeutics—will be eroded or lost.
What About Patient Safety? If Naturopathic Physicians Haven’t Dealt With Prescription Drugs in the Past, How are they Eligible for the Added Responsibility?
Naturopathic doctors deal with prescription medicines on a daily basis: With patients already on a drug regime, considering pharmaceuticals and/or an alternative, drug/non-drug interactions, and myriad other interconnected health issues. The substantial change with new regulations won’t be so much an added responsibility, but rather the ability to improve patient care. Currently, hundreds of thousands of BC residents see naturopathic doctors for care, many for primary care, and BC’s licensed NDs attend to over a million patient visits each year.
Won’t it Confuse Patients Already on Prescription Medications?
Given the shared scopes of model already in existence, there should be no confusion. Many patients may see, for example, an ND, physiotherapist, chiropractor, acupuncturist and MD over the course of a year, sometimes simultaneously. Shared scopes of practice is the status quo in BC. Even for a patient seeing both a general practitioner and specialist, they may be under two different “traditional” protocols without confusion or error. But this question also begs a further clarification. There is a difference between prescriptions for chronic and acute conditions. A patient on medication for, say, depression, and seeing an ND, would require immediate attention for an acute condition such as bronchitis. The provision for access to scheduled drugs allows for more effective, timely and appropriate medical care.
Why do Naturopathic Physicians Want This Change in Regulation?
Strictly speaking, naturopathic doctors don’t “want” the change in regulation, they require it—to provide safe, effective, economical preventative health care. The regulation changes are in keeping with a “shared scopes of practice” model being implemented across the province—whereby many health professions have access to prescription items relevant to their respective practice. The change is in keeping with the record of safety and effectiveness of this profession, and ensuring that modalities arbitrarily removed, over time, continue to be used appropriately and in a timely fashion.
Don’t Naturopathic Doctors Only Use “Natural” Medicines?
No and yes. Even to this day many prescription drugs are derived from natural sources—where there is overlap and emphasis in naturopathic medical training. Some “natural” medicines are prescription only (e.g., amino acids, high-dose vitamins). But really this is a question about employing basic medical diagnosis and laboratory analysis. Naturopathic doctors’ primary focus is on treating the underlying nature or cause of disease. Put simply, naturopathic medicine is the “nature” of the “pathos” or disease, not simply “natural” medicines. This focus is about supporting the natural healing processes of the patient, not simply using a product. Thus, naturopathic medicine is about the removal of any impediment to the healing process; the prevention and treatment of physical and mental disease, disorders and conditions; and the promotion of good health using not only natural methods but methods that support and enhance a patient’s overall health. Unfortunately, even those “natural” medicines naturopathic doctors have used for many decades are often, now, by prescription only.
The BCNA believes that the government’s commitment to providing a schedule of preparations for licensed naturopathic physicians is in keeping with a public responsibility to: Ensure shared scopes of practice; improve access to primary health providers; enhancing disease prevention from qualified health professionals; providing greater public choice while not increasing health care costs.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Naturopathic Mommy: Vitamin K
In hospital births, newborns are given an intramuscular injection of Vitamin K within 6 hours of birth. This intramuscular injection is to prevent a disease call hemorrhagic disease of the newborn (HDNB) - a bleeding disorder identified over 100 years ago.
Recently, there has been a lot of research on the long-term effects of pain induction on newborns. To date, there is no clear answer. This raises a concern to most parents. They ask themselves the question: Is there a way to minimize pain in my newborn infant during its first few hours of life?
As a naturopathic doctor expecting her first baby in the next few days I have done some research into this question. I have decided to forgo the intramuscular injection (OUCH!) and use oral vitamin K instead.
Recently, there has been a lot of research on the long-term effects of pain induction on newborns. To date, there is no clear answer. This raises a concern to most parents. They ask themselves the question: Is there a way to minimize pain in my newborn infant during its first few hours of life?
As a naturopathic doctor expecting her first baby in the next few days I have done some research into this question. I have decided to forgo the intramuscular injection (OUCH!) and use oral vitamin K instead.
Below is the dosing regime I will use:
Oral Vitamin K1 (K1-phytonadione) 2.0mg at time of first feeding, at 2, 4, and 6 weeks of age.
The brand I will use is Biotics Bio-K-Mulsion which supplies 500mcg (i.e. 0.5mg) per drop.
Note that Vitamin K1 by Biotics is illegal in Canada at this time.
For any questions about "Naturopathic mommy'ing" please do not hesitate to contact myself, Dr. Jolene Kennett, ND, at www.oceanwellness.ca
*Note that I am on maternity leave until Sept 1st 2009
Naturopathic Mommy: Diapers
Diaper'ing has become a very complex field! There are over 20 options for washable diapers and, of course, numerous disposable options. New parents need to consider time, convenience, cost, safety, and messiness.
As a naturopathic doctor I knew from the beginning that I was going to use washable diapers and that regardless of the hurdles, I would make this route work for me. What shocked me most were the varieties available today. (As if pregnancy brain was not enough, now I had to worry about sorting through this confusing field!) Just the other day my mom showed me how she folded pieces of flannel and pinned them to our bottoms. (Such an old fashion way!) My mom seldom worried about diaper rash, leaking, or messes with her cloth diapers. The best part - they cost less than $10 per dozen!!!
So, when I found out I was pregnant I started doing a lot of research. After speaking with mom's, nannies, researching online, and talking with baby retail store owners, I decided on the BumGenius Organic Cotton One-size diapers. At about $30 per diaper (with tax) it was quite an initial investment but the long-term savings, both monetary and environmental, are huge!
As a naturopathic doctor I just wanted to emphasize the importance of preserving the environment. There are daily reports on the amount of plastic accumulation in the environment. Next to plastic bags, diapers are the next major environmental polluters!
Should you ever have any questions about "naturopathic mommy'ing" please do not hesitate to contact me at www.oceanwellness.ca. :)
*Note that I am on maternity leave until Sept 1st 2009.
As a naturopathic doctor I knew from the beginning that I was going to use washable diapers and that regardless of the hurdles, I would make this route work for me. What shocked me most were the varieties available today. (As if pregnancy brain was not enough, now I had to worry about sorting through this confusing field!) Just the other day my mom showed me how she folded pieces of flannel and pinned them to our bottoms. (Such an old fashion way!) My mom seldom worried about diaper rash, leaking, or messes with her cloth diapers. The best part - they cost less than $10 per dozen!!!
So, when I found out I was pregnant I started doing a lot of research. After speaking with mom's, nannies, researching online, and talking with baby retail store owners, I decided on the BumGenius Organic Cotton One-size diapers. At about $30 per diaper (with tax) it was quite an initial investment but the long-term savings, both monetary and environmental, are huge!
As a naturopathic doctor I just wanted to emphasize the importance of preserving the environment. There are daily reports on the amount of plastic accumulation in the environment. Next to plastic bags, diapers are the next major environmental polluters!
Should you ever have any questions about "naturopathic mommy'ing" please do not hesitate to contact me at www.oceanwellness.ca. :)
*Note that I am on maternity leave until Sept 1st 2009.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Toxic Heat
As winter settles in and temperatures drop many families opt for cozying up next to a real fire in their homes. Most people will "recycle" wood and burn scraps from old fences, children's swingsets, decks and picnic tables. This is a very toxic practice.
Pressure-treated wood is treated with a chemical called CCA (chromated copper arsenate) to protect it from damage from sun. mould, insects, and water. CCA leaches from the pressure-treated wood and has shown to be present as a residue on the surface of the wood, in the soil and ground water around the structure, and in the ash from previously burning household fires. Note that pressure-treated wood manufacturers must now claim whether or not their product has been treated with CCA and whether or not it contains arsenic.
Arsenic is a known human carcinogen and is frequently associated with lung, skin and bladder cancer. Symptoms of arsenic exposure can include stomach ache, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It can also result in decreased production of red and white blood cells which may cause fatigue, abnormal heart rhythm, blood-vessel damage resulting in bruising, and impaired nerve function. One of the early warning signs of arsenic poisoning is a "pins and needles" sensation in hands and feet. Other signs and symptoms include skin thickening, fluid accumulation (resulting in puffiness) especially around the lower eyelids, face and ankles, diarrhea, garlic breath, perspiration, excessive salivation, generalized itching, oral inflammation, sore throat, runny nose, excessive tearing, numbness, skin inflammation, hair loss, weakness, and loss of appetite. Arsenic can also cause a range of neurological effects, including headaches and vision problems. It can cause noticeable behavioral changes, most commonly aggression or depression.
Early treatment of arsenic poisoning whether acute or chronic low-grade exposure is critical. Arsenic levels can be safely assessed in patients aged 2-102 years old at Ocean Wellness by Dr. Jolene Kennett, ND through a urine sample following a treatment called chelation provocation. For more information call 604.986.9355.
Pressure-treated wood is treated with a chemical called CCA (chromated copper arsenate) to protect it from damage from sun. mould, insects, and water. CCA leaches from the pressure-treated wood and has shown to be present as a residue on the surface of the wood, in the soil and ground water around the structure, and in the ash from previously burning household fires. Note that pressure-treated wood manufacturers must now claim whether or not their product has been treated with CCA and whether or not it contains arsenic.
Arsenic is a known human carcinogen and is frequently associated with lung, skin and bladder cancer. Symptoms of arsenic exposure can include stomach ache, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It can also result in decreased production of red and white blood cells which may cause fatigue, abnormal heart rhythm, blood-vessel damage resulting in bruising, and impaired nerve function. One of the early warning signs of arsenic poisoning is a "pins and needles" sensation in hands and feet. Other signs and symptoms include skin thickening, fluid accumulation (resulting in puffiness) especially around the lower eyelids, face and ankles, diarrhea, garlic breath, perspiration, excessive salivation, generalized itching, oral inflammation, sore throat, runny nose, excessive tearing, numbness, skin inflammation, hair loss, weakness, and loss of appetite. Arsenic can also cause a range of neurological effects, including headaches and vision problems. It can cause noticeable behavioral changes, most commonly aggression or depression.
Early treatment of arsenic poisoning whether acute or chronic low-grade exposure is critical. Arsenic levels can be safely assessed in patients aged 2-102 years old at Ocean Wellness by Dr. Jolene Kennett, ND through a urine sample following a treatment called chelation provocation. For more information call 604.986.9355.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
An addendum to Cushing's and Lead blog
The following information is from another website blog and relates to my previous post.
http://www.olyblog.com/f/06/HiddenCostsF06192006.shtml
Ground Contamination False Creek - published March 2006
page 228- LeverageOlympicMomentum.com ...
Here is what we do know regarding ground contamination in Vancouver as of early April 2006; the soil where the Olympic Village is to be built has been extensively tested. According to Jody Andrews, Project Manager for the Southeast False Creek project, they drilled hundreds of core samples throughout the site. The samples revealed a wide variety of contaminants spread in a variety of areas on the property, like hydrocarbons (derivative of petroleum), waste from a smelter, by-products from a wood mill, and other miscellaneous industrial waste. The contamination reaches down in some places to a depth of nine meters, almost three stories deep. The land was used industrially from the early 1800's, so you can image what has been dumped there over the last 100 years before environmental regulations were in place, plus from unscrupulous companies that made midnight runs to the deserted property in order to illegally empty their tanker trucks of poisons like lead, arsenic, or who knows what else. It happens every night in all big cities and this area is an easy target. Over the last 100 years there have been "sawmills, foundries, shipbuilding, metalworking, salt distribution, warehousing, and a municipal public works yard" on the land at different times. In order to build out the Olympic Village area, approximately fifty acres, nine meters deep has to be excavated, and either treated onsite, or hauled to another location for safe disposal. Would you want to live on this land? In Sydney when they undertook a similar soil remediation task in the Homebush Bay Olympic site area, costs escalated out of control, plus, it created untold health problems for people living and working in the vicinity. Digging up fifty acres of contaminated soil three stories deep puts an incredible amount of dust in the air. Plus, the property borders the Pacific Ocean, which means not only is there an impact to air quality, but to water too. Residents in the Homebush Bay area complained of increased asthma, bronchitis and skin rashes, plus there was evidence of chromosomal damage. Health care costs increased proportionately, which meant another hidden cost. The city did not take the concerns of residents seriously until international media started reporting the information. Andrews freely admitted we would not know what lies in the ground until the entire site is excavated. Quite literally, it is anybody's guess what it will cost to make the site safe for residents. This particular piece of land also has a very unique microclimate, which contributes to the dispersal of air contaminants. Prevailing winds in the summer are from the west, off the ocean. During the day as the air over the land heats up it rises and the cooler ocean air moves in to displace it. When this happens the contaminants in the air are pushed up and into the valley. In the evening the cycle is reversed, but to a considerably lesser extent. Basically, the microclimate sets up an ebb and flow system that will spread the contaminated dust among millions of residents. Homebush Bay had a very similar challenge. During a public forum, when I asked Andrews if he knew about Homebush Bay, he looked puzzled and said, "No. Never heard of it." (cv1;cf1)
http://www.olyblog.com/f/06/HiddenCostsF06192006.shtml
Ground Contamination False Creek - published March 2006
page 228- LeverageOlympicMomentum.com ...
Here is what we do know regarding ground contamination in Vancouver as of early April 2006; the soil where the Olympic Village is to be built has been extensively tested. According to Jody Andrews, Project Manager for the Southeast False Creek project, they drilled hundreds of core samples throughout the site. The samples revealed a wide variety of contaminants spread in a variety of areas on the property, like hydrocarbons (derivative of petroleum), waste from a smelter, by-products from a wood mill, and other miscellaneous industrial waste. The contamination reaches down in some places to a depth of nine meters, almost three stories deep. The land was used industrially from the early 1800's, so you can image what has been dumped there over the last 100 years before environmental regulations were in place, plus from unscrupulous companies that made midnight runs to the deserted property in order to illegally empty their tanker trucks of poisons like lead, arsenic, or who knows what else. It happens every night in all big cities and this area is an easy target. Over the last 100 years there have been "sawmills, foundries, shipbuilding, metalworking, salt distribution, warehousing, and a municipal public works yard" on the land at different times. In order to build out the Olympic Village area, approximately fifty acres, nine meters deep has to be excavated, and either treated onsite, or hauled to another location for safe disposal. Would you want to live on this land? In Sydney when they undertook a similar soil remediation task in the Homebush Bay Olympic site area, costs escalated out of control, plus, it created untold health problems for people living and working in the vicinity. Digging up fifty acres of contaminated soil three stories deep puts an incredible amount of dust in the air. Plus, the property borders the Pacific Ocean, which means not only is there an impact to air quality, but to water too. Residents in the Homebush Bay area complained of increased asthma, bronchitis and skin rashes, plus there was evidence of chromosomal damage. Health care costs increased proportionately, which meant another hidden cost. The city did not take the concerns of residents seriously until international media started reporting the information. Andrews freely admitted we would not know what lies in the ground until the entire site is excavated. Quite literally, it is anybody's guess what it will cost to make the site safe for residents. This particular piece of land also has a very unique microclimate, which contributes to the dispersal of air contaminants. Prevailing winds in the summer are from the west, off the ocean. During the day as the air over the land heats up it rises and the cooler ocean air moves in to displace it. When this happens the contaminants in the air are pushed up and into the valley. In the evening the cycle is reversed, but to a considerably lesser extent. Basically, the microclimate sets up an ebb and flow system that will spread the contaminated dust among millions of residents. Homebush Bay had a very similar challenge. During a public forum, when I asked Andrews if he knew about Homebush Bay, he looked puzzled and said, "No. Never heard of it." (cv1;cf1)
Lead exposure and Cushing's symptoms... A coincidence?
The other day I had a patient present in my office:
43 male, working at the site of the Olympic Village (South East False Creek) since 2007. Over the past 6 months this patient has developed softening of his muscles, emotional lability, abnormal bruising, puffiness of the face, reddening of the face, elevated blood pressure and elevated blood sugar levels. Prior to the development of these symptoms the patient's health was unremarkable.
Research indicates that soil samples taken from the development site of the Olympic Village are contaminated with numerous petroleum by-products, chemicals, and LEAD AND ARSENIC. There was demand that 50+ acres 9 meters deep be removed from the Olympic Village site and either disposed of safely in a different location, or processed (i.e. cleaned) and replaced. This would have risen costs tremendously! Sadly I could not find any reports of the soil being "cleaned"...
Lead exposure, whether chronic or acute, may present as Cushing-like signs and symptoms. The work-up for this patient involves various lab tests at the local hospital as per an internal medicine specialist and heavy metal investigation by his naturopathic doctor.
I used Ca-EDTA and DMPS to provoke the removal of metals from this patient's body and am eagerly awaiting the urine toxic metals report.
Stay tuned for more information on this case. Also, I would appreciate any comments or questions.
43 male, working at the site of the Olympic Village (South East False Creek) since 2007. Over the past 6 months this patient has developed softening of his muscles, emotional lability, abnormal bruising, puffiness of the face, reddening of the face, elevated blood pressure and elevated blood sugar levels. Prior to the development of these symptoms the patient's health was unremarkable.
Research indicates that soil samples taken from the development site of the Olympic Village are contaminated with numerous petroleum by-products, chemicals, and LEAD AND ARSENIC. There was demand that 50+ acres 9 meters deep be removed from the Olympic Village site and either disposed of safely in a different location, or processed (i.e. cleaned) and replaced. This would have risen costs tremendously! Sadly I could not find any reports of the soil being "cleaned"...
Lead exposure, whether chronic or acute, may present as Cushing-like signs and symptoms. The work-up for this patient involves various lab tests at the local hospital as per an internal medicine specialist and heavy metal investigation by his naturopathic doctor.
I used Ca-EDTA and DMPS to provoke the removal of metals from this patient's body and am eagerly awaiting the urine toxic metals report.
Stay tuned for more information on this case. Also, I would appreciate any comments or questions.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Worried about this years flu? Try this....
Many Vancouverites avoid getting the flu shot because they feel the underlying premise of such a vaccination is flawed. Health food stores are laden with "safe" alternatives to fight off, or prevent, the flu but there is a different therapy which I rather use in my office and it gets right to the source of the infection.
A flu is generally characterized as runny nose, coughing, sneezing, chest pain from coughing, headache from clogged sinuses, fever (from fighting infection) etc... If you think about it, most of these symptoms involve the respiratory system. The flu is spread via respiratory droplets and inhaled. So why not treat the respiratory system?!
Nebulized IV-grade glycyrrhizic acid (derived from licorice), along with some IV-grade glutathione and saline solution is the therapy of choice, in my opinion, to prevent and help treat the flu. Licorice extract is antiviral and it helps to soothe and heal the respiratory system.
A nebulizer is a machine that mixes liquid solutions with air so that the solution can be inhaled into the lungs as a medicinal mist. Nebulizers can be purchased at your local pharmacy or from your naturopathic doctor.
Note that this therapy is also useful in the treatment of COPD, Emphysema, Pneumonia, Bronchitis and Lung Cancer.
For more information, please call Ocean Wellness at 604.986.9355.
A flu is generally characterized as runny nose, coughing, sneezing, chest pain from coughing, headache from clogged sinuses, fever (from fighting infection) etc... If you think about it, most of these symptoms involve the respiratory system. The flu is spread via respiratory droplets and inhaled. So why not treat the respiratory system?!
Nebulized IV-grade glycyrrhizic acid (derived from licorice), along with some IV-grade glutathione and saline solution is the therapy of choice, in my opinion, to prevent and help treat the flu. Licorice extract is antiviral and it helps to soothe and heal the respiratory system.
A nebulizer is a machine that mixes liquid solutions with air so that the solution can be inhaled into the lungs as a medicinal mist. Nebulizers can be purchased at your local pharmacy or from your naturopathic doctor.
Note that this therapy is also useful in the treatment of COPD, Emphysema, Pneumonia, Bronchitis and Lung Cancer.
For more information, please call Ocean Wellness at 604.986.9355.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
FISH: The right choice?
On October 6th, 2008 the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) placed Sockeye salmon on its threatened species list. The most threatened populations of Sockeye salmon are the British Columbian Sockeye that spawn in the Fraser River and the Skeena River. The full report can be found at www.stateofthesalmon.org/IUCN/
So we have known for a while that farmed salmon are bad. We have always beentold that the wild Pacific Sockeye is the best choice and that we should avoid tuna due to toxic levels of mercury contamination. Now we are being warned that we should limit wild Pacific Sockeye consumption as it is on its way to becoming extinct unless a federal program is implemented to clean up their habitat and limit their consumption.
Make healthy choices for healthy oceans!
I hope we are no where near being the last generation to feed safely from our waters.
Here is an updated list from an organization called SeaChoice on which fish/seafoods are the best choices. For more information on SeaChoice, visit www.seachoice.org/.
Fish: The right choice:
So we have known for a while that farmed salmon are bad. We have always beentold that the wild Pacific Sockeye is the best choice and that we should avoid tuna due to toxic levels of mercury contamination. Now we are being warned that we should limit wild Pacific Sockeye consumption as it is on its way to becoming extinct unless a federal program is implemented to clean up their habitat and limit their consumption.
Make healthy choices for healthy oceans!
I hope we are no where near being the last generation to feed safely from our waters.
Here is an updated list from an organization called SeaChoice on which fish/seafoods are the best choices. For more information on SeaChoice, visit www.seachoice.org/.
Fish: The right choice:
- Catfish (US) - Farmed
- Caviar/Sturgeon - Farmed
- Clams - Farmed
- Cod: Pacific (US) - Wild
- Fish Sticks (Pollock) - Alaskan
- Hake: Pacific (Canada)
- Herring: Atlantic (US), Pacific (Canada)
- Imitation Crab: Pollock (Alaskan)
- Lobster: Rock, Spiny (Australia, US, Western Baja)
- Mussels - Farmed
- Pollock (Alaskan)
- Sablefish (Alaskan, BC)
- Sardine: Brisling, Sprats (US)
- Shrimp/Prawn: Sidestripe, Spot (BC) - Trap-caught
- Tilapia (US) - Farmed
- Trout: Rainbow - Farmed
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Components of Permanent Weight Loss
Yearly, the percentage of overweight individuals is growing. In North America the percentage of overweight individuals is pushing 66%! This is a concern that naturopathic doctors deal with frequently as permanent weight loss has huge implications in a person's overall health.
So why is it that so many patients attend clinic after clinic and fail to maintain the weight goals they strived so hard to achieve?! I hear of patients who spent their entire lives on programs like Weight Watchers, Zone, LA Weight Loss etc... only to become discouraged with themselves.
Here are the top 7 items most naturopathic doctors will address in natural weight-loss programs:
1. Emotional Eating
2. Brain Chemistry Imbalances
3. Food Sensitivities
4. Nutritional Deficiencies and Low-Calorie Dieting
5. Hormone Deficiencies
6. Detoxification
7. Lifestyle Modification
In combination, when done safely, addressing the above items will lead most successfully to permanent weight loss.
So there you have it - the missing links ;)
So why is it that so many patients attend clinic after clinic and fail to maintain the weight goals they strived so hard to achieve?! I hear of patients who spent their entire lives on programs like Weight Watchers, Zone, LA Weight Loss etc... only to become discouraged with themselves.
Here are the top 7 items most naturopathic doctors will address in natural weight-loss programs:
1. Emotional Eating
2. Brain Chemistry Imbalances
3. Food Sensitivities
4. Nutritional Deficiencies and Low-Calorie Dieting
5. Hormone Deficiencies
6. Detoxification
7. Lifestyle Modification
In combination, when done safely, addressing the above items will lead most successfully to permanent weight loss.
So there you have it - the missing links ;)
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Painkillers MAY prevent cancer
Vancouver Sun, Wednesday, October 8th, 2008 - FRONT COVER
Yesterday I came across the front page of the Vancouver Sun and was astounded to see a picture of Advil tablets, an Advil bottle, and the words prevent cancer!
For those of you who did not get a chance to read the newspaper, there was a 42 year observational study showing that women who took more anti-inflammatory painkillers had a modest 12% less chance of breast cancer development.
For decades, Naturopathic doctors have been working with their patients to reduce inflammation in the body to either decrease signs and symptoms of, or prevent chronic diseases. Some examples of chronic diseases involving inflammatory pathways include diabetes, atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, arthritis, infertility, cancer, bowel disease (i.e. inflammatory bowel disease.)
The point here is that drug companies are catching on to what naturopathic doctors have always known in order to increase their profit. Rather than taking Advil or Aspirin which have reported adverse reactions ranging from stomach upset, to stroke and death, ask your naturopathic doctor how you can reduce inflammation in your body. The good news is that we have safe means to address inflammation.
To prevent, or reduce, chronic disease it is important to know where the inflammation is, why it is occurring, how to eliminate "bad" inflammation, and how to avoid re-inflammation.
In closing, I think that it is about time that the public is aware that cancer may be linked to inflammation - now they just have to learn how to reduce their risk of cancer naturally, through lifestyle, diet, exercise, and supplementation.
Take home message: Before you go out and buy more Advil or Aspirin, consult with an expert on inflammation, your naturopathic doctor.
Yesterday I came across the front page of the Vancouver Sun and was astounded to see a picture of Advil tablets, an Advil bottle, and the words prevent cancer!
For those of you who did not get a chance to read the newspaper, there was a 42 year observational study showing that women who took more anti-inflammatory painkillers had a modest 12% less chance of breast cancer development.
For decades, Naturopathic doctors have been working with their patients to reduce inflammation in the body to either decrease signs and symptoms of, or prevent chronic diseases. Some examples of chronic diseases involving inflammatory pathways include diabetes, atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, arthritis, infertility, cancer, bowel disease (i.e. inflammatory bowel disease.)
The point here is that drug companies are catching on to what naturopathic doctors have always known in order to increase their profit. Rather than taking Advil or Aspirin which have reported adverse reactions ranging from stomach upset, to stroke and death, ask your naturopathic doctor how you can reduce inflammation in your body. The good news is that we have safe means to address inflammation.
To prevent, or reduce, chronic disease it is important to know where the inflammation is, why it is occurring, how to eliminate "bad" inflammation, and how to avoid re-inflammation.
In closing, I think that it is about time that the public is aware that cancer may be linked to inflammation - now they just have to learn how to reduce their risk of cancer naturally, through lifestyle, diet, exercise, and supplementation.
Take home message: Before you go out and buy more Advil or Aspirin, consult with an expert on inflammation, your naturopathic doctor.
Friday, August 22, 2008
What is Naturopathic Medicine
Education and Training of Naturopathic Doctors
- Pre-requisite - three years pre-med sciences
- Four-year full-time naturopathic medicine program at a naturopathic school accredited by the Council of Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME). For a list of the accredited school go to http://www.cand.ca/
- Program encompasses over 4,200 hours of classroom and clinical training including courses in bio-medical sciences, naturopathic sciences, clinical sciences and clinical education.
- NDs complete the North American standardized Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Exams (NPLEX)
- NDs complete additional exams as required by provincial regulatory boards
- Continuing medical education credits are a requirement to maintain licensure
- Option to obtain post-graduate certification in intravenous therapies, including ozone and chelation
Naturopathic Doctors
- Are primary care providers
- Dianose and treat most health concerns
- Treat acute and chronic illness
- Use a natural non-pharmaceutical approach
- Work in conjunction with other licensed health care providers
- Focus on health promotion and the prevention of illness
- Are currently regulated in British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Ontario. Regulation is pending in Alberta, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and the Yukon
Treatment Modalities
Core treament modalities include:
- Clinical nutrition
- Botanical medicine
- Homeopathic medicine
- Physical therapies
- Acupuncture and oriental medicine
- Lifestyle counseling
Many NDs take additional post-graduate trainingin specific therapies and focus their practices on those treatments.
Naturopathic Visits
NDs spend their time to listen to patients and get to the root cause of their health concerns through physical exams, disgnostic testing and laboratory analysis.
- Initial visit range from one to two hours in lenght
- Follow-up visits range from twenty to forty-five minutes
- Initial visits include a comprehensive patient history, physical exam and diagnostic testing, as required
- Visits are covered by most extended health care plans
Research
International research and clinical studies have validated naturopathic treatments and the natural medicines used by NDs. Naturopathic school have research departments and collaborate with other instititions and or ganizations to conduct research.
Naturopathic Philosophy
- First, do no harm
- Support the natural healing processof the body
- Identify and adress the root cause of disease
- Treat the whole person
- Teach the basis to health and self-care
- Focus on prevention
Adopted from the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors website (www.CAND.ca)
Peri-Menopause Symptoms Relieved with Acupuncture & Traditonal Chinese Herbs
Peri-menopause is a 2-5 year period during which a woman progresses from her fertile years into menopause. Menopause is defined as a lack of menstrual flow for greater than 12 months. Peri-menopause is not a disease, nor is it an HRT (hormone-replacement therapy) deficiency. Peri-menopause is a gradual physiological process that begins before birth! A woman will have 6,000,000 follicles as a fetus, 600,000 at birth, 300,000 at puberty, and only 10,000 at menopause. Thus, a woman's lifestyle and diet throughout life will determine the degree to which she experiences menopause. Remember there are some women who, as we say, cruise through this time.
A therapy that is able to address menopausal symptoms that I like to use most is acupuncture complimented by Chinese herbs. This approach focuses on re-balancing the body and tonifying deficiencies in either Yin or Yang.
Symptoms commonly addressed in peri-menopausal women using acupuncture and Chinese herbs are: headaches, fatigue, lethargy, irritability, anxiety, nervouseness, depression, insomnia, lack of concentration, hot flushes (i.e. power surges), vaginal dryness, sweating, and a decreased libido.
In British Columbia, the majority of Naturopathic Doctors (ND) have additional certification to preform acupuncture. The benifit of seeing an ND who also is certified to do acupuncture is that they can also offer you their opinion as to other means which will address other concerns you may have. (Ex: elevated cholesterol or blood pressure.)
ND's scope of practice includes: dietary and lifestyle counseling, acupuncture* and Chinese herbs, Western herbal medicine, homeopathy, functional medicine and nutraceuticals, physical medicine, and laboratory assessment, physcial exams, intravenous* and chelation therapy*.
*requires additional certification
A therapy that is able to address menopausal symptoms that I like to use most is acupuncture complimented by Chinese herbs. This approach focuses on re-balancing the body and tonifying deficiencies in either Yin or Yang.
Symptoms commonly addressed in peri-menopausal women using acupuncture and Chinese herbs are: headaches, fatigue, lethargy, irritability, anxiety, nervouseness, depression, insomnia, lack of concentration, hot flushes (i.e. power surges), vaginal dryness, sweating, and a decreased libido.
In British Columbia, the majority of Naturopathic Doctors (ND) have additional certification to preform acupuncture. The benifit of seeing an ND who also is certified to do acupuncture is that they can also offer you their opinion as to other means which will address other concerns you may have. (Ex: elevated cholesterol or blood pressure.)
ND's scope of practice includes: dietary and lifestyle counseling, acupuncture* and Chinese herbs, Western herbal medicine, homeopathy, functional medicine and nutraceuticals, physical medicine, and laboratory assessment, physcial exams, intravenous* and chelation therapy*.
*requires additional certification
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Anemia and Hypothyroidism
Anemia, specifically iron-deficiency anemia, is associated with hypothyroidism. There are speculations as to the common-denominator in both conditions. For example, some references indicate that it is a matter of copper-deficiency while other references indicate that hypothyroidism results in a reduced uptake of iron due to a decrease in the amount of hydrochloric acid produced in the stomach. Regardless of the common-denominator, if you have symptoms that include fatigue, irritability and depression, and a feeling of always being cold, then you may want to ask your doctor to test both your thyroid and your iron status. Note that at thorough thyroid work-up involves more than TSH and an anemia work-up involves more than serum-iron levels and a CBC.
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