To provide top-notch care and make life better for you and your pet, Piper Creek Vet Clinic makes getting fast and accurate test results a priority. They use their in-house, state-of-the-art IDEXX Laboratory to test and diagnose blood samples to obtain immediate information on blood cells, liver and kidney enzymes, thyroid and electrolyte balance, and even detect early kidney disease. In complex cases, where more in-depth tests are needed, they access offsite testing to best narrow down your pet’s illness, to help them get the best treatment possible in a timely way.

The Red Deer Primary Care Network (RDPCN) challenges you to join the January 5 to February 15, 2019 trek – it’s a fun way to increase your physical activity and community spirit. The six-week trek follows the path of the 2019 Winter Games torch relay. Step up and be part of the Games! Join this free virtual trek as a group or an individual. Enter your steps or activities to watch your progress along the torch relay route. Make the commitment to be active and enjoy the winter months ahead. Go to RedDeerPcn.com to register today.

Treat is a positive action that encourages savouring and enjoying, but cheat encourages negative emotions and behaviours, such as binge eating. Don’t deprive yourself of your favourite foods or you will never be able to stick to your diet plans. The key to weight loss is moderation, not deprivation. There’s a difference between discipline and a straitjacket. Struggling to stay on track? Ask yourself why you want to lose weight in the first place. Write those reasons down in a location where you’ll see them daily to help keep you accountable.

Studies suggest that children with autism spectrum disorder have impaired detoxification. Dr. Sonia McGowin, DC, shares, “As both a mother of a child with food allergies and learning disabilities, as well as a doctor specializing in children with autism, I find the IonCleanse® by AMD to be an invaluable part of the services I offer. The differences I see in my child and in my patients are astounding.” Adding a detoxifying footbath into your child’s health regimen can help with their overall wellbeing. The gentle, non-invasive treatment pulls a variety of toxins out of your child’s body through their feet.

Kundalini yoga is a form that blends several styles into one and emphasizes nerve strength over flexibility. Nerve strength means having the energy to meet the demands of the day and to be graceful in life’s challenging moments. A Kundalini yoga class incorporates spinal work, breath techniques, sound and rhythm. Students describe the effects as being both energizing and relaxing.With all of the different styles of yoga available there is a style suitable for every personality, fitness level and health condition. In the new year, consider trying various yoga styles to determine what might be the best fit for you.

Jan. 19. 10 am – 5 pm. The Healthy Living Expo showcases exhibitors and demonstrators that promote all aspects of wellness, sustainability, innovation and a healthy lifestyle. Join us at the Harvest Centre at Westerner Park.

Want to know a great way to help with portion control and make yourself eat more slowly? Try cutting your food into smaller pieces! You’ll feel like you’re actually eating more food and it will slow you down as you eat. Any time I go out for sushi, I ask the chef to cut it into smaller pieces than they normally do. Give this a try at home or at restaurants and you’ll see a noticeable difference. In addition, put your fork down between bites. This little habit improves digestion and nutrient absorption, meaning fewer cravings later!

As we head full speed into winter, now is the time to work on a keystone habit, SLEEP. How many times have you nodded off in a meeting, felt sluggish while driving, or “hit the wall” in the afternoon? This is largely due to ignoring our body’s calls to rest. The best time frame for your body to rest is between 10 pm-6 am. Trouble falling asleep? Try a journal or notepad by your bed, remove all screens from your room, have a digestion-friendly light supper at 6 pm, and a breathing meditation to ease into slumber.

Mortar & Pesto is now an official Advanced Orthomolecular Research (AOR) Pro Dispensary. AOR’s line of products has a large volume of research supporting the health safety and effectiveness of each formulation. Well-researched and evidence-based therapies, these products offer some of the most effective natural options available in Canada. AOR offers a unique approach to personalized nutrition. Available through prescription only, Mortar & Pesto Natural Pharmacy will assess which AOR Pro line formulation will best suit your individual needs. Everyone’s biology is different, and it is so important to find out what your body needs to thrive.

Did you know that many Canadian adults have dangerous levels of mercury, lead, and cadmium in their bloodstream and that the average newborn has over 200 industrial chemicals, pollutants, and pesticides in their blood? From environmental pollutants, to our lotions, deodorants, fragrances, soaps, makeup, plastics, non-stick pans, laundry detergents, dryer sheets, cleaners, and even our food, all have toxic elements that are easily absorbed by the body. Since we are exposed to more toxins than ever before, consider making small changes in your daily routine and purchases – sometimes it’s the simplest of changes that make the difference.

Piper Creek Veterinary Clinic wants our pets to heal properly with reduced pain, so using a laser during surgery is a valuable asset in our practice. It helps in the recovery of our companions in two ways: less bleeding since the laser cauterizes when it cuts, plus less pain as it helps to seal nerve endings. These benefits result in quicker recovery times as well as reduced post-surgery pain. Although initially designed for spay and neuter surgeries, it is a nice tool for removing lumps of all types in addition to countless other applications for your animal needs.