Known as the “Immortal Health Elixir” by the Chinese and originating in the Far East around 2,000 years ago, kombucha is a beverage with tremendous health benefits. With more literature being published regarding its effectiveness in weight management, immune system enhancement as well as its role in improving digestion, and boosting energy, the fondness of this ancient drink is growing. It’s also beneficial for protecting hair and teeth and battling certain types of cancer. Exactly what is kombucha? Simply put, kombucha is a living drink. It’s made by fermenting tea, sugar, and the kombucha culture otherwise known as a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast). After being fermented, kombucha becomes carbonated and contains vinegar, b-vitamins, enzymes, probiotics, and a high concentration of acid (acetic, gluconic and lactic), which are linked with positive effects. Some outcomes are improved digestion, weight loss, increased energy, cleansing and detoxification, immune support, reduced joint pain, and cancer prevention.
Community News
Skin Care Regime
Skin complaints, ranging from visible scarring to acne to hypersensitivity, pigmentation and premature ageing, can all be addressed, controlled and eradicated with a good skin care regime. Regardless of the skin’s condition, improvements in diet, lifestyle and skin care can all contribute to a healthier complexion. The skin is the body’s largest organ and fulfils a huge number of invaluable tasks; because it interacts with the environment on a daily basis, skin plays a key role in protecting against pathogens and excessive water loss while providing insulation, temperature regulation, sensation, synthesis of vitamin D, and the protection of vitamin B folates. Skin that is well protected, nourished and preserved against oxidization, pollution, UV rays and other lifestyle and environmental elements will remain healthier for longer; the results of this effort will be visible both in the short and long term.
Perla Yu, Licensed Esthetician, Natera Massage and Esthetics
Diabetes: Preventable or Reversible?
Current medical ‘experts’ that treat diabetics and support organizations for diabetics claim that Type 2 diabetes can only be managed. They are ignoring the science that shows the diets that humans evolved with are the diets that allow us to thrive. The Standard American Diet is the root of most chronic health issues, including diabetes. People that permanently change their diet to one that supports their genetic heritage typically eliminate T2 diabetes or greatly reduce the effect of T1 diabetes. Do you want to continue on the path of ‘managing’ diabetes and accept the inevitable heart disease, kidney disease, blindness, amputation, and neuropathy? If not, enlist the help of a qualified health coach to educate you on what steps to take to allow your body to heal!
Tom White, enddiabetesmanitoba.ca, becomehealthy.ca
Seasonal Allergies on the Rise
Do you suffer from a stuffy or runny nose? What about suffering from itchy, watery eyes, or skin irritations? Do you want to avoid daily use of over-the counter drugs such as anti-histamines, eye drops, and nasal sprays? Allergies occur when the body’s protective Qi (pronounced “chee”) becomes weakened. When this Qi is not functioning optimally, harmful environmental influences are able to invade the body, giving rise to allergies and illness. Acupuncture is a highly effective, natural alternative to strengthen and support the body’s immune system. This is great for the prevention and control of pesky allergies! Consider trying acupuncture for your annoying seasonal allergies and hay fever. You will be pleasantly surprised at the relief you experience once your body’s defenses are back to full strength!
Naomi Johnson, www.heklaacupuncture.com
Natural Product Review
Oil of Oregano is no average herb. Before modern science could point the finger at bacteria, herbalists and traditional doctors used oregano to effectively treat infections of all kinds, both topically and internally. Oil of Oregano is a potent herbal antimicrobial that effectively tackles bacterial, yeast, fungal, and parasitic infections. It is also a powerful antioxidant capable of scavenging free radicals and preventing cellular damage. It is a more potent antioxidant than vitamin E, and is four times higher in antioxidants than blueberries, and 12 times higher than oranges. Oil of oregano has anti-inflammatory qualities as well as demonstrated anti-mutagenic and anti-carcinogenic properties. Natural Factors Organic Oil of Oregano is available in both liquid and convenient softgel formats. The oil can also be used topically on bug bites and minor skin irritations as well as to relieve muscle pain.
Nutrition Plus
Bowenwork: The Answer to TMJ/Jaw Pain
Have you ever come from a dentist appointment or cleaning and felt jaw pain that just won’t go away? Maybe you or someone you know has braces, dentures, clenches their teeth all day, or wears a night guard? Do you know that some people grind their teeth so intensely at night that they wake up with chronic migraines, headaches, or a sore jaw? Grinding teeth can also cause painful teeth, a tight face, and sore neck muscles. Bowenwork can help you STOP grinding your teeth at night, so you can get rid of that ‘attractive’ night guard. Many desperately search for a solution but have not found a natural, effective, and long-lasting option. Sound familiar? If this is you or someone you know, you should try Bowenwork to help with your TMJ/jaw pain. Bowen Therapy works, even if other therapies were unsuccessful. Don’t give up your search for natural pain relief!
Bernadette Kozak, Certified Bowenwork Practitioner, WinnipegPainRelief.ca
Designed Just for You
Functional Movement Screening (FMS) is an assessment protocol used to identify limitations or imbalances in your typical movement patterns. Based on the results of your assessment, corrective exercises are prescribed to address your deficiencies. If your deficiencies are left untreated, they’ll lead to decreased performance, discomfort, and pain. The first priority of corrective exercise is to ensure normal mobility exists. Without full range of motion, normal movement cannot be achieved. Stability is the next component to be addressed. Without stability, proper alignment cannot be achieved. The last aspect addressed is movement preference optimization. For example, if you typically use one side of your body, you are likely to develop repetitive strain injuries. This needs to be balanced. To achieve optimal movement quality, corrective exercises are designed for you. It’s important exercises are identified from the results of your FMS and you start at a skill/difficulty level that’s right for you to progress until optimal movement is achieved.
Joseph Dyck M.P.T., dougchristiephysiotherapy.co
Thai Foot Massage/Reflexology
Thai Foot Massage/Reflexology is a treatment for lower legs and feet that originated in Thailand about 2000 years ago. This therapy utilizes stretching, massage, thumb-walking, and the use of a wooden stick to stimulate reflex points. Thai foot massage restores balance to the body/mind through reflexes of the feet and lower legs that are linked to the body’s 72,000 energy meridians (sen). Reported benefits include: improved circulation in legs, lymphatic drainage, removal of toxins, elevated functioning of the immune system, and reduced stiffness. Additional outcomes are: improved flexibility, relief from stress, and improved sleep. Thai foot massage doesn’t cure illnesses, but it promotes good health. Thai Foot Massage is intended to stimulate reflex points of the feet, the internal organs, and encourage free flow of energy throughout the body. If you would like to balance and harmonize the flow of energy throughout your body and stimulate the internal organs, then Thai Foot Massage/Reflexology is for you!
Rositha Jeanson, www.rositha.ca
Pharmacists as Prescribers (Part 2)
Dermatitis is also referred to as Eczema. It is a broad term for a number of similar skin conditions. It can either be Atopic or Contact Dermatitis. Atopic Dermatitis is itchy and persisting (chronic) and is very common in young kids but may also happen to adults. Contact Dermatitis can be allergic or irritant. Contact Dermatitis starts with an itch that develops into a rash and is brought upon by an allergic reaction. Once it is decided what type of Dermatitis a person has, then suitable treatment is recommended. For better prognosis, it is important that Dermatitis be treated immediately. Delaying treatment may lead to the spread of Dermatitis and development of infection. Qualified pharmacists in Manitoba now have the authority to assess Dermatitis, recommend treatment, and follow up with patients. After detailed assessment and consideration of the risks and benefits to the patient, pharmacists have the authority to prescribe certain steroid based topical medication.
Dr Hajra H. Mirza, www.pharmachoice.com/mb/rossmere-pharmacy
Workplace Desk Ergonomics
Some of us sit at computers at work hours at a time. This position takes toll on our body, so we must do what we can to promote good posture, as well as decrease risk of injury. Start with your chair. Seat pan height allows for 90 degrees of both knee and hip flexion so feet rest comfortably on the floor. Lumbar support on the back- rest is helpful. Arm -rests should be set at a height when your shoulders are relaxed, the elbows are bent at 90 degrees and forearms rest comfortably. A cushioned wrist -rest on your desk or attached to your keyboard is beneficial. Next, look at the computer monitor. It should be positioned at a height where the centre of the screen doesn’t fall below 0-15 degrees under your horizontal line of sight. It can be angled slightly upward so it’s square to your face. Finally, the mouse or phone should only be an arm’s reach away. Try these simple steps to prevent neck or back pain!
Heath Vermette, South Sherbrook Therapy, www.southsherbrook.com
In Honour of Our Veterans – Your Brain and PTSD
Being on the defensive can be draining, as can attest any military service person that struggles with PTSD. Trained to defend our country or to help others in need and to contribute to international peace and security, military personnel can end up staying in alert mode so they can be ready for action when needed. Relaxation or meditation is next to impossible and sleep can even become an issue, making it impossible to rest. If you have experienced any kind of trauma or lived through a life-threatening event, your brain could be stuck in the “fight-flight” mode and sending your body mixed signals. A de-harmonized brain may be your core problem. Know that the use of Brainwave Optimization, a non-invasive neurotechnology that allows your brain and nervous system to relax and recalibrate, has been shown to reduce post-traumatic stress symptoms, insomnia, and depression.
Joanne Couture, RMFT RSW, [email protected]
