All posts by Sushma Shah

Naturopathic Medicine – Is It The Right Choice For You?

In order to answer that question, it is important to first understand what Naturopathic Medicine is and what the benefits of using naturopathic therapies are for your health.

Naturopathic Medicine is Alternative / Holistic Medicine. The main goal with Naturopathic Medicine is to address the root cause of the your health issues and symptoms, as opposed to just treating or bandaging the symptoms superficially.

Once the root cause is identified through a comprehensive intake and physical examination along with a physiological assessment, if need be, using scientifically accurate testing methods for general health, nutrient, hormonal, gut health status. Treatment is suggested based on the cause of the disease or imbalance. The naturopathic approach uses the true healing nature of natural therapies such as nutrition, diet, acupuncture, supplements, vitamins, herbs, and other healing therapies to treat the underlying root cause, which in turn, resolves the superficial symptoms, and also helps improve and optimize your health and wellbeing.

Here is an example of how Naturopathic Medicine differs from Traditional Medicine. For a skin condition like eczema – as opposed to just treating eczema superficially with a variety of creams to suppress the immune reaction, naturopathic treatment would be based on addressing the underlying root cause of the eczema – Allergies and a dysfunctional immune system. Once these are addressed with natural therapies, the eczema quite often clears outs very effectively and without the use of medicated creams which can quite often cause side effects with long term use without addressing the root cause of the symptoms.

What Are The Benefits Of Naturopathic Medicine?

The benefits to using Naturopathic Medicine are plain and simple:

  • Address and Treat the Root Cause of the symptoms
  • Improve your health and well-being naturally
  • Self awareness and education of how one’s body works and how imbalances can effect the body.
  • Prevent Illness and Disease by fostering a healthy lifestyle and reducing risk of chronic and degenerative diseases such as diabetes and heart disease
  • Individualized health care. Treatments are highly individualized and based on improving and and optimizing the person’s wellbeing – physically, mentally and emotionally, as opposed to a one treatment fits all approach.

So is Naturopathic Medicine the right choice for you? If you are looking to improve your over health and wellness, take charge of your wellbeing and want to prevent disease long term – then Naturopathic Medicine is the perfect choice for you.

 

supplements and vitamins

What Is The Harm In Taking Supplements And Vitamins?

Would you take prescription medication because you saw an advertisement on the television about it and you think it will help your health? Would you call up your medical doctor and ask if you could start taking a medication just because you heard it was a good prescription to take? If not – why not?

We are all aware that you should get a proper assessment done through your medical doctor, and then they usually suggest what prescription drugs you need to take based on your health issue right? Depending on how your body responds they may suggest blood tests to monitor your liver or kidney function as well once you start certain prescriptions because of the adverse effects these drugs can cause in your body.

Why should vitamins or supplements be any different? They are beneficial for various health issues, yes, however if your blood tests do not demonstrate a deficiency, then adding a vitamin or mineral supplement or herbal medication can also have adverse effects on your wellbeing. Many vitamins and herbs can have toxic adverse effects as well on the body, if not taken appropriately.  One might argue that foods have vitamins and minerals too, so should we not be concerned about eating foods too? Well, most foods do not contain isolated amounts of vitamins and minerals in high concentration like vitamin and mineral supplements do, so they are mostly safe to eat.

In practice, quite often clients come to me complaining of low energy and fatigue issues. A closer look at what they are eating and ingesting, they usually say – well, I started taking a high potency vitamin and mineral supplement to increase my energy and improved my diet, but still not feeling much better. Here is a classic example of why I suggest not to take vitamins and supplements without understand what your body’s needs may be. I have found that ingesting high amounts of certain vegetables and red meats can cause liver issues in men who already have a high concentration of iron in their blood, causing a condition called liver hemochromatosis.

Hemochromatosis is an inherited disease in which the body absorbs too much iron from the diet. The excess iron is then stored in your organs, especially your liver, heart and pancreas.  Unfortunately ingesting too much iron can lead to life-threatening conditions, such as liver disease, heart problems and diabetes and fatigue is one of the symptoms associated with this condition as the liver is unable to do it is job properly. This is just one example of how an excess amount of a nutrient can cause harmful effects on your body, if taken without knowing whether you needed to take this or not.

As a naturopath, I usually check for lack of nutrients and vitamins through blood tests along with routine blood tests, at our initial naturopathic consultation. I have regularly found that quite often clients lack or have high amounts of nutrients and vitamins that they were not aware of at all.  As naturopaths, we are trained in clinical nutrition, herbal medicine and are well aware of the interactions of drugs with vitamins and herbs. If you are thinking of supplementing your diet with additional vitamins and herbal supplements to improve your health and wellbeing or for any health issues, first please see a naturopath who can assess what your body’s needs are based on your health. Your body will thank you.

By: SUSHMA SHAH, Toronto Naturopathic Doctor.

Managing Digestion And Constipation As We Get Older

As we get older, our gastrointestinal tract becomes less efficient and more susceptible to slowing down and getting damaged. Symptoms such as indigestion, constipation and reflux become more common and profound depending on various lifestyle and dietary factors. However there are various natural and effective ways to help keep digestion on track whether we are getting older or just looking to manage digestive symptoms.

Here are some tips for digestion that we can all benefit from:

  1. Chew mindfully

In order to help the digestive process, it is suggested to chew enough to get the food mushy. For every bite you take, I usually suggest at least 12 chews per bite. Enjoy the colours and the textures for the food to stimulate gastric juices and improve digestion.

  1. Rest and digest

While you are relaxed, your digestive system is able to work much better then when you are stressed out or very physically active.  It is important that you take your time while eating to allow your digestive system to work efficiently.

  1. Everything in moderation

It is okay to indulge with food once in awhile, but ensure that it is within moderation.

  1. Eat less saturated fat

The need for bile is increased to help break down those fats when eating foods high in saturated fat.  Eating too many of these types of meals are taxing on the gallbladder, leaving you feeling full and bloated after a meal. Try to combine your foods better for optimal digestion and absorption.

  1. Take a multi strain probiotic

Supplementing your nutrient intake with probiotics may help to alleviate and prevent various conditions of the gastrointestinal system related to dysbiosis or an unhealthy gut flora such as candidiasis.Talk to your naturopathic doctor before starting any supplements.

  1. Drink plenty of water

It is very important to stay hydrated throughout the day and the recommended daily intake is at least 1500ml each day. This varies based on your weight. Usually half your body weight in ounces is suggested, so if you are about a 150 lbs, the recommended intake if 75 ounces per day.

  1. Eat fibre every day

Be sure to include fibre-rich foods such as bran, fruits and vegetables to help promote and maintain complete elimination. However, if you having difficulties with chewing due to missing teeth, powdered fibre alternatives are available. It is important to talk to your health care provider or naturopath, as fibre can sometimes cause bloating.

Common Digestion Difficulties

  1. Dysphagia is when you have difficulty swallowing. It is similar to the sensation of food getting stuck in your throat. While this is happening, you may experience regurgitation of food, heartburn and drooling. There are various causes for dysphagia – if you do experience dysphagia, having smaller bites of food may help, along with some liquid to help the food ease down through the throat.
  2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – show symptoms that include nausea, bloating, gnawing, burning, aching or sore stomach pain.You also may feel hungry. You may experience a burning pain in your throat or esophageal area, or a sore throat.
  3. Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) – show symptoms of nausea, bloating, gnawing, burning, aching or sore stomach pain. You may also feel hungry, bloated and experience stomach soreness. PUD is a serious issue and required medical attention. If you notice any tarry stools or see dried blood in your stools, notify your health care provider as soon as possible.
  4. Right-sided abdominal pain – Cholelithiasis(gallstones) is the usual cause for right sided abdominal pain, and can be asymptomatic in 80% of cases.  As there are some sufferers that experience biliary colic with sharp, radiating pain, nausea and vomiting.  Up to 25% of seniors have this condition.
  5. Gurgling, gas, diarrhea with ingestion of dairy products. When you lack the enzyme needed to break down lactose, a sugar found in milk, within 2 hours of ingesting any dairy products, you may experience bloating, cramps, diarrhea, gas, nausea and gurgling. Talk to your naturopathic doctor about getting tested for lactose intolerance.
  6. Constipationoccurs in 24-40% of seniors. Bowel movements may be very painful, infrequent, or hard and dry. There are various physical causes for constipation. Diet and lack of water and fibre intake are a common cause for constipation in adults and children.
  7. Lower abdominal pain can be caused a condition called diverticulosis and can be asymptomatic, but some may experience constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, cramping or lower abdominal pain. Diverticulosis is when pockets called diverticula form in the walls of your digestive tract. The inner layer of your intestine pushes through weak spots in the outer lining. This pressure makes them bulge out, making little pouches. Most often it happens in your colon, the lower part of your large intestine.
  8. Lower Abdominal pain with Fever – People that experience diverticulitisor inflammation of the diverticula pouches. People may experience abdominal pain, gas, cramping, bleeding in stools, fever, chills, nausea and vomiting. A bland diet with puréed foods can help improve the symptoms, but talk to your health care provider about what approach would be most beneficial for condition.
  9. Uncontrolled bowel movements or Bowel Incontinence – Bowel incontinence happens to seniors in the range of 4-27%.  Damage or weakness in muscles in the rectal region can weaken with age leading to urgency and incontinence, or passive bowel incontinence – no urge or sensation felt before a bowel movement.

Many of the digestion difficulties listed are preventable and can be resolved quite effectively with naturopathic help. If you are experiencing some of the symptoms listed above and are looking for more holistic or alternative approaches to address these issues, please call us at 416 913 4325 to schedule a naturopathic consultation.

Tips For Staying Healthy During The Winter

As the winter is unleashed upon us with cold, snowy, windy and wet days, the best defense we have for our body is to brave the winter by staying healthy and positive. Here are a few tips to stay healthy over the winter:

  1. When the weather gets cold, the body seems to want foods that bring comfort and warmth to the heart – carbohydrates of course! While carbohydrates have received a bad reputation over the last decade, I do believe it is important to have some quality carbohydrates in your diet – especially complex carbohydrates found in grains and other foods. These keep the body fuelled and nourished, as well keep blood sugar balanced with the right type of protein intake.
  2. Having a healthy diet goes a long way to prevent colds and flu in the winter. Eat a whole food diet with organic ingredients, and if possible, grown locally. Check out the local indoor farmer’s markets during the weekends. Increase your intake of foods that are high in immune boosting nutrients and vitamins – A, C, D and Zinc.Dark colored vegetables and fruits such as carrots, peppers, broccoli, spinach, kale, beets, sweet potatoes, tomatoes are all packed full of nutrients for the body, among others. The new Canada Food Guide is a great start for a healthy diet!
  3. Stay hydrated! There is nothing worse than getting sick and feeling you cannot cough up that phlegm or get rid of that nasal congestion. Water helps to thin out the mucus and phlegm, making it easier to clear out. Drink at least 8 – 10 glasses of filtered warm water daily. If you do not like drinking water – add a slice of lemon or lime, oranges, some berries with a little slice of ginger and Manuka honey.
  4. Decrease your intake of processed and sugary foods. Sugar tends to tax the immune system, especially when you are feeling under the weather. If you are craving sweet foods – try some naturally dried fruits – figs, prunes or dates to satisfy the sugar craving and get some fiber on the side.
  5. Exercise! When the weather is cold, a lot of us do not feel like the braving the cold and running or exercising outdoors. Find a simple routine that works for you – in your home or at the gym, and make sure you follow it at least 3 – 4 times a week for at least 20 – 30 minutes. The best routine is the one you are going to stick to so find something you enjoy and do not have to force yourself to do, so find a fun activity that helps you stay fit and healthy
  6. Get plenty of rest and relaxation! If you are under the weather, one of the best things you can do for yourself and others, is to rest and relax! Give permission to yourself to refuel and recharge your batteries, which are usually drained if you do get sick often. Resting and relaxing will also decrease your recovery duration.
  7. Schedule regular naturopathic appointments and acupuncture sessions to maintain and support your health and wellbeing.

By: Sushma Shah, Naturopathic Doctor, at the Nature’s Intentions Naturopathic Clinic.

 

New Year Resolutions for 2019

New Year Resolutions

Happy New Year 2019!

 

 

Wishing Everyone a Healthy New Year filled with Happiness, Joy & Love. Here is a list of Healthy New Year Resolutions we have compiled for the year 2019:

  1. Be kinder to yourself and your environment. Be a better human being.
  2. Take more time to reflect upon your health and your emotions, start with at least 7 minutes a day if not more.
  3. Create less waste – by buying less of the abundance, recycling more, giving more to those in need and eating less red meat.
  4. Spend more time in nature and with loved ones.
  5. Travel more – it does not have to be extravagant, you could be a tourist in the city and explore a new neighbourhood or town you have not been to before for the day or two.
  6. Give up addictions that are affecting not only your wellbeing but also putting a strain on your relationships and commitments.
  7. Add more vegetarian or plant-based proteins into your diet.
  8. Eat more greens, whole foods and fruits to supercharge your body with nutrients and vitamins to stay healthy.
  9. Shake that body – find an exercise, yoga or fitness routine you like. Start with a simple plan and make sure you do not overcommit. Re – evaluate in 1 month. Are you keeping up with your goals or do you need to find something else that works with you?
  10. Stop making excuses for yourself. Laugh and sing more!

I hope you make this year the year where you achieve the goals you set out for yourself! We are always here to help you with any health goals you have for yourself and your family, so let us know if we can be of help. Wishing you the very best of health for 2019!

Protecting Your Health

Keeping Your Lawn Healthy, Weed-Free And Blooming Over The Summer

Having a beautiful lawn without any weeds or pests are great to look at, but if that look has been achieved with the use of pesticides or herbicides, you may be getting more than what you bargained for. Pesticides are toxins that do much more than just killing pests, they are harmful not only to the pests, but also all forms of life forms around the pests. So what options do we have to achieve a beautiful lawn or garden flourishing with bees and flowers, without the use of toxic herbicides and pesticides? The answer is lies in organic gardening techniques, which work just as well for lawns and flower gardens as they do for vegetable gardens. There’s no need for toxic chemicals and synthetic fertilizers when you follow the principles of healthy gardening.

Here are some great tips for your garden and lawns:

Mowing your lawn

Mow your lawn often, during the rainy season and less so in the drier season.  Leave the grass height at least 2 inches (5cm) high to help it develop strong roots and crowd out weed growth. To reduce the lawn’s need for fertilizer, allow grass clippings to remain on the ground after mowing to provide nutrients as they decompose.

Feeding your lawn

Once every year in the fall, feed your lawn by spreading a quarter to half an inch (6-12mm) of compost over the grass or use an organic fertilizer. Manure is a great choice for slow release of nutrients. Synthetic fertilizers do make the grass grow quickly but also makes it more susceptible to disease.

Watering your lawn

Frequent watering of a lawn causes the grass to develop a shallow root system. Instead, water thoroughly once a week, or twice if really necessary. Not sure how much to water? Place a straight-sided glass jar near a sprinkler. When one inch of water (25mm) has been collected in it, it’s time to move the sprinkler to another area.

Combating pet urine

Nothing like the neighbour’s pet marking their territory by urinating on your lawn!  Soak the whole area with water at once to prevent the grass from scorching and turning brown due to the acidity in the urine.

Natural weed control

Weeds are easy to restrain without chemical herbicides if you establish a consistent weed-prevention and control program. In order not to let the weeds take hold, do not leave any patches of bare ground available. Cover these areas with grass seeds or mulch or grass cuttings.  Mulch garden beds heavily, and scatter grass seed on thin spots in your lawn as soon as they appear. Mow your lawn often, but do not cut it too short. Mowing frequently also cut down the weeds by removing the flowering heads that spread the seeds.

Weeding when its dry

When soil is extremely dry, don’t pull weeds as it disturbs the soil and causes additional moisture loss. Instead, remove weeds at the surface of the soil with an oscillating hoe.

Eat your weeds

Many common weeds are edible, such as lamb’s quarter and dandelion, use the young leaves to add taste, flavour and health to spring salads.

TAKING CARE OF FLOWERS AND SHRUBS

For annual plants

To keep your annuals blooming for as long as possible, regularly remove withered blossoms to keep the plant from going to seed and to stimulate re blooming. To encourage the growth of full and dense plants, pinch off the tips of new growth with your fingers.

Rejuvenating perennials

Different perennials have different requirements, however, most perennials like Hostas need to be divided every few years to prune out weak or dead sections and rejuvenate the plant. Ideally, do this on a cool dry day in the spring or fall when it is least traumatic for the plant. Dig up the plant, including as much root as possible. Divide again into the size of plants you want. Throw away unhealthy or damaged parts. Replant the divided sections immediately.

Tulip and daffodil care

Cut tulip and daffodil flower stalks to the ground after they bloom. But let the leaves remain for at least eight weeks to help the bulbs generate energy for next year’s spring flowers.

Boost rose booms and color with Epsom salts

The magnesium in Epsom salts helps roses absorb nutrients more readily, stimulating more blooms and better colors. Sprinkle a teaspoon per 12in (30cm) of plant height and scratch into the soil in the spring. Repeat after the roses have bloomed.

Enjoy a healthy and pesticide free lawn and garden this year!

Adapted from: 1001 Natural Remedies by Natural Health Magazine

Keeping On Top Of Allergies

Food And Environment Allergies

As the Spring season kicks off, it brings with it warmer weather, rain, melting snow, and the dreaded POLLEN and our reaction of hay fever to it. More children seem to have allergies today than ever before. There are many theories to explain why this maybe such as perhaps we are “too clean”, or introduction of certain foods to early such as peanuts maybe identified by the immune system as foreign, or a parent having allergies, eczema or asthma.  Here are some things you can do for your child if they are suffering from allergies.

According to Food Allergy Canada, up to 300,000 Canadian children suffer from food allergies and children under the ages of 3 are most affected, however, the most chronic condition is non-food allergies in kids 12 and older.

How To Manage These Food Allergies?

First, it is very important to identify that the symptoms are related to a true allergy and not a sensitivity / intolerance – there is an overlap with the symptoms produced by both such as rashes, fatigue, stomach issues. However, symptoms such as dark circles under the eyes, puffiness and swelling, chronic diarrhea and of course anaphylactic shock are related to allergies. A simple blood test will help reveal whether there is an allergy or an intolerance. Once identified, here are simple tips you can use to help your child:

  1. There are natural and over the counter remedies that can help deal the symptoms of environmental allergies, so talk to your child’s naturopathic or medical doctor before starting either.
  2. Getting tested for allergies is important to identify what additional allergies your child has. Cooking foods can sometimes make a difference, as there may be less of an allergen.
  3. For environmental allergies, good hygiene practices and limiting or eliminating exposure helps.
  4. Educating those around you when it comes to cooking with foods or being around kids or people with known allergies such as peanut and shellfish, or being affectionate with a person / child after ingestion of known food allergies can be disastrous!
  5. Know the signs of anaphylaxis and how to treat them!
Immune System

Building And Maintaining Our Immunity – Our Bodies’ Greatest Defense System

Immunity – Our Greatest Defence System

Our immune system is our army of soldiers of different ranks that help maintain balance and structure within the body when there is invasion of any unfavorable particulates in our body. When our immunity is suppressed or weakened we are more susceptible to infections and cancer! Hyper immunity, which is the opposite of a suppressed or weakened immune system, seems to be more prevalent these days and one of the main symptoms is allergies.  In autoimmune diseases such as thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus erythematous, our immune system makes antibodies to our own body tissues that cause inflammation, pain, or malfunction of those organs and tissues.

Living a healthy lifestyle with a positive attitude will support the body to optimal health such as getting the necessary nutrients, taking time to relax, recreate and not block or weaken our natural energy circulation due to various immune system suppressors.

 

Boosting Your Immune System Naturally

The following suggestions would definitely benefit individuals suffering from chronic fatigue, are susceptible to viral infections, or any individuals with a repeated illness or infection.

  1. The avoidance of chemicals and other factors listed in the immune suppressor list* below may also help minimize immune function weaknesses. Stress and emotions are definitely concerns for weakening the immunity. Care in lifestyle, diet, and supplements are very important.
  1. A rotating diet without the regular use of dairy products, wheat, corn, sugar, yeast or any other foods that one may be allergic or intolerant should be avoided.
  1. Wholesome foods that are free of chemicals and pesticides are best. Care must be taken in the prevention of food being exposed to microorganisms, including parasites, as they have a very negative influence on our immune health. Avoiding chemicals in foods and chemical consumptions, such as alcohol, caffeine, cocaine, marijuana, and nicotine promotes optimal health.
  1. Adequate amounts of certain vitamins are very important for proper protein production. Essential fatty acids are also required for healthy cells and tissue. However, excess protein and saturated fats clog the vascular and lymphatic systems and may also suppress the immune system. Diets that consist of detoxing and fasting may strengthen the immune functions and reduce immune overload and reactions as they may be seen in allergies, infections, or autoimmune problems such as rheumatoid arthritis. In reducing the intake of allergenic substances and cleaning allergenic materials from the body can reduce symptoms and allow the T lymphocytes (a specific type of white blood cell) to restore their balance and reduce hyperactivity.

 

It is very important to prevent vitamin deficiencies and also eating foods that are high various immune boosting nutrients.  Basic multiple supplements for immune enhancement can be useful that provide adequate amounts of antioxidants, however, it would be best to talk to you naturopathic doctor before starting any supplements at all.

 

Immune System Suppressor List*

  • Aging
  • Allergies: Pollens, Dust, Food
  • Infections:   Virus’s, Bacteria, Yeasts and fungi, Parasites
  • Surgery
  • Radiation
  • Chemotherapy
  • Drugs: Cortisone and other steroids, Anti-inflammatories, Adrenalin, Insulin
  • Lack of sleep
  • Airplane travel
  • Stress: Social, Work, Financial, Emotional extremes, Depression, Loneliness
  • Overeating
  • High-fat diet including excess (PUFAs)
  • Sugar
  • Excess iron
  • Malnutrition (especially in infants and elderly)
  • Nutrient deficiencies: vitamins A, C, and E, B vitamins, especially B5, folic acid, B6, and B12, zinc and selenium, essential fatty, protein
  • Chemicals in diet and environment: phenol and formaldehyde, hydrocarbons, air/water pollution
  • Drugs, recreational: marijuana, nicotine, cocaine, amphetamines
  • Alcohol

 

Immunologic Problems Related To Specific Nutrient Deficiencies In The Body

Vitamin A       Reduced cellular immunity, slow tissue healing, increased infection rate, lowered IgA levels (which affect defense at the Mucous membranes).

Vitamin C        Decreased phagocyte function, reduced cellular protection, and slow wound healing.

Vitamin E        Decreased antibody production and response; with selenium. Deficiency: lowered cell-membrane integrity.

Vitamin B5      Lowered humoral immunity, increased irritation of stress.

Vitamin B6      Lessened cellular immunity, slow energy metabolism.

Vitamin B12    Decreased lymphocyte proliferation and PMN bactericidal activity.

Folic Acid       Reduced blood cell production, perhaps increased cervical cancer.

Zinc                 Decreased T and B cell function and thymic hormones. Increased infection rates, and slow healing.

Iron                 Decreased cellular immunity and neutrophil activity. (Excess iron can also impair bactericidal activity.)

Selenium       With vitamin E deficiency, antibody response is lowered, increased cellular carcinogenesis.

Copper            Lowered resistance to infection.

 

* Adequate levels of these nutrients will support or enhance these immunological functions.

Before starting any supplements or vitamins, please talk to your naturopathic doctor. The information on this article is not intended to treat or cure any health issues.

Marijuana

Marijuana – Should You Or Should You Not Use It?

What Is Marijuana or Cannabis?

Marijuana has received lots of attention recently with possibility of now being legalized in Canada, and I am sure a lot of you are wondering about if it is safe to use? Does it have health benefits? Are there long- term side effects of using it? A lot of you probably also may feel wrong about using it morally – so should you or should you not use marijuana?

This short article may help clear some confusion, however it does not substitute for medical advice. If you are thinking about using it, talk to your naturopathic doctor or medical doctor before using it.

Cannabis sativa (and indica) or marijuana is one of the most widely used illegal substances in Western Countries. It is also known as pot, bhang, grass, Indian Hemp, Weed, Ganja, Kif. Cannabis was first mentioned about 3000 years ago in the pharmacopoeia of the Chinese Emperor. For many years, people using it have said that after having tried all kinds of different additive and strong medications for various health issues – and the use of marijuana has helped them the most. Pharmacologically speaking – the chief ingredient is 9- tetrahydrocannabinol better known as THC, among 60 other cannabinoids is the chief active ingredient.

While there are many adverse effects associated to the abuse of the marijuana “herb” there are also some positive medical potential Based on various studies, this compound has been shown to have some beneficial effects as an antiemetic, anticonvulsive, analgesic, as well as respiratory effects of bronchial dilation, helps in the reduction of intra-ocular pressure in the eyes up to 45%, antimicrobial effects, has appetite stimulant effects and tumor inhibiting effects! With tranquilizing effects, the herb has been used to aid in the treatment of pain relief, with lowering the eye pressure in glaucoma patients and increasing the sensory functions to our bodies and environment with minimal side affects.

The assumption has been that the substance or the active ingredients are fairly harmless and safe to use, however over recent years medical officials have now determined that it may not be as harmless as previously believed. With extended use, both acute and chronic problems can develop over time leading into a psychologically addictive habit with mild withdrawal physical potential. The problem does not arise from marijuana as a plant it self, but the active constituent THC. In the recent years, there have been many new developments in how its been processed and extracted and how concentrated it is.

 

Some of the negative psychotropic effects observed with THC include: mood swings, lack of concentration, inability to think clearly, reduction in drive, confusion, impairment of short- term memory and perception of time. Sensory impressions become heightened and or experienced differently. Tasks become for difficult and the capacity to understand or empathize is impaired. Negative effects such as anxiety, panic and psychosis can occur. Driving ability can be disturbed for up to 8 hours after use!

As the substance is being used more commonly for recreation opposed to medicinal purposes it can create an apathetic and irresponsible attitude towards life, mainly by children or teenagers in order to achieve the ‘laid back’ sensation.

The side affects are minimal but they are still present with the ability to increase over time with regular use, such as lung irritation, bronchitis or even a higher risk of respiratory complications in contrast to their counterparts; non-smokers. Reduced body temperature and immune system suppression has also been observed in animal studies. Cannaboids can also increase heart frequency. Although rarely reported, acute poisoning symptoms include nausea, vomiting, tear flow, hacking cough, disturbance of cardiac function and numbness of the limbs. Instances of death are very rare.

Though unsubstantiated as further research is required to determine a link and then to differentiate the effect of the drug from that of other possible exposures, some studies have suggested that excesses long term use may lead to various cancers, specifically testicular cancers in men. In reference to fertility, in men, it reduces the testosterone levels that may result in lack of aggressiveness and reduces their sperm count. In women, it affects uterine functions and breastfeeding as it lowers prolactin levels as well as causes irregular menstrual cycles.

Many regular marijuana smokers have been associated with hypoglycemic problems as the initial effect of the drug increases the blood sugar levels. The term ‘munchies,’ coined from getting high may be linked to reduced liver glycogen or low blood sugar thus playing a substantial roll with cravings for unhealthy food.

So to answer the question of should you use it or not – this really depends on what you are going to be using it for and if the benefits outweigh the side effects for you. Talk to you naturopath or medical doctor and see if use is warranted.

If you have been a user and are looking to detoxify, here are some simple suggestions:

Similar to any other controlled substance, detoxification from marijuana comes with a list of associated symptoms. Regular usage may also lead into other personality disorders such as anxiety, hyperactivity, insomnia, anorexia, and depression not to mention the increased desire to smoke. If you are looking to detoxify your body of marijuana, attempt to reach out to support groups of those who have experienced the same problem and overcame it, avoid friends who participate in smoking of marijuana and associated paraphernalia.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is mainly stored in the body’s liver and fat, which causes mild withdrawal symptoms to resurface from time to time while going through detoxification. Toxins are released through the perspiration of exercise, sweats or through weight loss, which aids with the prevention of bacteria growth and the release for faster clearing. To be successful at quitting, other controlled substances, tranquilizers and cigarette smoking should be avoided altogether, however some individuals are able to maintain their level of usage to only recreational or social gatherings. When that habit changes from occasional to regular use, it is best to stop and avoid completely.

 

References:

PDR For Herbal Medicines. 2nd Edition – Medical Economics Company.

Staying Healthy with Nutrition: The Complete Guide to Diet & Nutritional Medicine ~ Elson M. Haas, M.D.

Weight Loss Tips By A Naturopathic Doctor

Have you every tried to loose weight? Have you ever tried different diets and had some success but then gained the weight you lost back after a few months of stopping the diet? Or have you been on diets your whole life, stressed and always cautious about what you eat and how it will affect your weight? If you answered yes to any of the questions above, you might want to read the following.

As a naturopathic doctor, I see various clients coming in for weight loss and management, who have tried and tired of different fad diets or diet of the month, had some success and then gained back the weight. So here are some simple tips that I have found to be useful for people trying to loose weight.

ADEQUATE NUTRIENTS WITHIN CALORIE NEEDS

Quite often people associate dieting with having to starve themselves to a maximum of 800 calories a day. Well, when you are looking to loose weight, look to consume a variety of nutrient-dense foods and beverages within and among the basic food groups such as vegetables, fruits and complex carbohydrates and healthy fats, while limiting the intake of foods that are high saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, added sugars, salt, and alcohol. This way you can intake good calories with healthy foods as opposed to limiting yourself to a thin slice of cake and some rice cakes all day long. Nutrition is key when it comes to loosing weight and eating the right foods is extremely important.

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT

To maintain body weight in a healthy range, balance calories from foods and beverages with calories expended or burnt. To prevent gradual weight gain over time, make small decreases in food and beverage calories and increase physical activity.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Regular physical activity and reduce sedentary activities to promote health, psychological well-being, and a healthy body weight.

To reduce the risk of chronic disease in adulthood: Engage in at least 30 – 40 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, above usual activity, at work or home on most days of the week.  For most people, greater health benefits can be obtained by engaging in physical activity of more vigorous intensity or longer duration.

To help manage body weight and prevent gradual, unhealthy body weight gain in adulthood: Engage in approximately 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity activity on 3- 4 days of the week while not exceeding caloric intake requirements.

To sustain weight loss in adulthood: Participate in at least 60 to 90 minutes of daily moderate-intensity physical activity while not exceeding caloric intake requirements. Some people may need to consult with a naturopathic doctor before participating in this level of activity. If you are looking to build muscle and not prevent bone loss especially for women going through menopause, it is very important to add weight bearing activities into your work out routine.

Achieve physical fitness by including cardiovascular conditioning, stretching exercises for flexibility, and resistance exercises or calisthenics for muscle strength and endurance.

FOOD GROUPS TO ENCOURAGE

A good balance for fruits, vegetables, proteins, good fats and complex carbohydrates is key.

Consume a sufficient amount of fruits and vegetables while staying within energy needs. Two cups of fruit and unlimited amounts of low carbohydrate vegetables such as all the different leafy greens and 1 serving of high carbohydrate vegetable such as sweet potato or yams per day are recommended for a reference 2,000-calorie intake, with higher or lower amounts depending on the calorie level.

Choose a variety of fruits and vegetables each day. In particular, select from all five vegetable subgroups (dark green, orange, legumes, starchy vegetables, and other vegetables) several times a week

Consume 2 or more ounce-equivalents of whole-grain products per day, with the rest of the recommended grains coming from enriched or whole-grain products. In general, at least half the grains should come from whole grains. There has been a lot of controversy surrounding having grains for weight loss – my recommendation is generally to get tested for food intolerances to figure out if you are intolerant to any grains before adding them into your diet. We offer testing for up to 220 foods at our naturopathic clinic.

FATS

Consume less than 10 percent of calories from saturated fatty acids and less than 300 mg/day of cholesterol, and keep trans fatty acid consumption as low as possible.

Keep total fat intake between 20 to 35 percent of calories, with most fats coming from sources of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, and vegetable oils.

When selecting and preparing meat, poultry, dry beans, and milk or milk products, make choices that are lean, low fat, or fat-free.

Limit intake of fats and oils high in saturated and/or trans fatty acids, and choose products low in such fats and oils.

CARBOHYDRATES

Choose fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains often.

Choose and prepare foods and beverages with little added sugars or none.

Reduce the incidence of dental caries by practicing good oral hygiene and consuming sugar- and starch-containing foods and beverages less frequently.

SODIUM AND POTASSIUM

Consume less than 2,300 mg (approximately 1 teaspoon of salt) of sodium per day.

Choose and prepare foods with little salt. At the same time, consume potassium-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

Those who choose to drink alcoholic beverages should do so sensibly and in moderation—defined as the consumption of up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.

Some individuals, including those who cannot restrict their alcohol intake, women of childbearing age who may become pregnant, pregnant and lactating women, children and adolescents, individuals taking medications that can interact with alcohol, and those with specific medical conditions, should not consume alcoholic beverages.

Individuals engaging in activities that require attention, skill, or coordination, such as driving or operating machinery, should avoid alcoholic beverages.

FOOD SAFETY – These are common sense when it comes to food preparation.

To avoid microbial food borne illness:

  • Wash your hands, and clean any contact surfaces where you prepare foods, and fruits and vegetables. Meat and poultry should always be washed or rinsed.
  • Separate raw, cooked, and ready-to-eat foods while shopping, preparing, or storing foods.
  • Cook foods to a safe temperature to kill microorganisms.
  • Chill (refrigerate) perishable food promptly and defrost foods properly.
  • Avoid raw (unpasteurized) milk or any products made from unpasteurized milk, raw or partially cooked eggs or foods containing raw eggs, raw or undercooked meat and poultry, unpasteurized juices, and raw sprouts.

None of this information constitutes for medical advice. Talk to your naturopath before making any changes.

If you are looking to loose weight and keeping it off, here is a link for more information on losing weight naturally.