Canadian youth use Cannabis more than any other legal drug and statistics indicate on average
they begin using as early as junior high. When compared to alcohol and tobacco, cannabis has the
fastest rate of transition to substance use disorder among adolescents. Cannabis affects brain development in areas responsible for decision making, judgment, planning and problem solving. THC induces neurotoxic changes that can result in effectively altering the functions responsible for emotional and cognitive performance, impulse control, memory, coordination, appetite, pain, mood, pleasure and motivation.
Community News
Cannabis Exposure on Breastfeeding Infants
Breastfeeding is an ideal choice for infants, but if the mother is using marijuana – risks outweigh the benefits. THC is a fat-soluble liquid, which goes through the mother’s bloodstream, and stored in body fat, resulting in high concentrations in the brain and body. THC accumulates in the mother’s breast milk and may produce severe cognitive and behavioural consequences. Infant may also show signs of sedation, reduced muscle tone, poor sucking response, and digestive issues. Other effects include; irritability, excitability, exaggerated startle responses, and diminished crying in newborns. Some studies have found decreased motor development at 1 year of age.
Effects of Cannabis During Pregnancy
Cannabis is one of the most widely used legal drugs in Canada. The legalization of Marijuana served to reinforce the belief that there were no health risks associated with using Marijuana. Medical research has now identified a number of health risks with the use of Cannabis. However, knowledge about the potential risks of use during pregnancy, infants, toddlers, and adolescence remain largely unknown by the general public. Cannabis is the most common psychoactive substance used by women of child-bearing age, and the most commonly used drug among pregnant women. On average THC levels are 7 times higher, than in the past, increasing the harmful effects of Marijuana.
MYTH: It is a commonly held belief that the Placenta, which provides nutrients and oxygen to the fetus through the mother’s bloodstream does not cross the placenta.
FACT: THC rapidly crosses the placenta. Cannabis can stay in the mother’s body for weeks, depending on the strength, how often it is used, and the mother’s metabolism. While some mothers use Cannabis for morning sickness, and pain, the latest research shows that no amount of Cannabis is safe during pregnancy. The effects can be passed onto the fetus through the placenta. Research indicates that infants exposed to Cannabis in the womb, when compared to mother’s who did not use Cannabis during pregnancy, found that it effected the baby’s mental and physical development, as well as higher risks of being born too small and too early.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)
Studies have shown that the PEMF given off by the Earth is equally as important to human health as food, water, sleep, and sunlight. Pulsed Electromagnetic Field devices were originally used by NASA to maintain the health of astronauts in orbit. FDA approved pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) for multiple uses years ago verifying that it is a legitimate and safe form of physical therapy. PEMF Therapy helps receive chronic pain, better sleep cycles, improves digestive problems, and much more. To learn more about PEMF therapy, or to purchase your own device, or to experience a PEMF treatment, contact us today.
Avoid Injury This Spring
Spring means two things: yard work and stiff, sore muscles. Stretching to prepare muscles for strenuous activities that have not been done since fall is very important. Simple things like doing arm circles, shrugging your shoulders, and touching your toes should be done before and after activity. If you do over-exert and your neck, shoulder, arm, or back pain is not going away within a week, there are natural alternatives that can help. Options such as Biofeedback, designed nutritional formulations, or NIR Therapy will reduce inflammation and stimulate muscle repair to help you recover quickly and get back to enjoying spring.
April is Oral Health Month
Oral health is important for everyone, including denture wearers. Gum disease, dental decay, and tooth loss are some of the main problems that denture wearers experience, so it is important to take good care of your gums, any remaining natural teeth, and to keep your partial or complete denture(s) clean and properly fitted! If gums, natural teeth, partials, and complete dentures are not cleaned properly, you are likely to experience a build-up of plaque, leading to bad breath, cavities, gum disease and further tooth loss. Denturists and dental hygienists play an integral role in the maintenance of your oral health. Be sure to book an appointment today.
Staying Active for Life!
It’s easy to come up with reasons to not want to go out, not spend time with friends or family or not be active on a regular basis. Being social and active at all ages is key to making sure the body, mind and spirit are healthy just as much as it is to eat healthy. At Misericordia Terrace, our in-house activities are designed so that our residents can have purpose in their day to day lives. Some examples include our fitness sessions which are led by a trained fitness professional. Art projects led by local artists (and you don’t need to be a Picaso to take part). Our speaker series which brings in individuals to talk about a wide range of topics including fall prevention, estate planning, diabetes management and the list goes on. It even includes fun social activities such as coffee and conversation to get to know
Managing Adult ADHD Symptoms
While ADHD is best treated with medication and therapy, many studies suggest that the supplements may be beneficial. Supplements for ADHD often include omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, magnesium, iron, and vitamin D. Omega-3s, found in fish oil, support optimal brain function, while zinc and magnesium are involved in neurotransmitter regulation and may aid in attention and focus. Iron deficiency has been linked to ADHD-like symptoms, making supplementation beneficial for some individuals. Vitamin D plays a role in cognitive function and mood regulation. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to determine appropriate dosages and ensure compatibility with other treatments.
Claiming Care Medical Expenses
Navigating the financial challenges of supporting aging parents, special needs children, or spouses with severe illnesses often involves significant attendant care expenses. The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) allows individuals to claim annually for attendant care fees incurred in Canada. Eligible expenses include nursing home or full-time care, group homes, in-home attendant care, retirement homes, special schools, or training institutions. Other eligible disabilities span vision, mobility, hearing, feeding, dressing, elimination functions, and mental capacities crucial for daily life. Approval for the (DTC) is necessary to claim these expenses.
Denture Health and Nutrition
Compromised oral health affects nutrition, influencing food choices and leading to potential health issues. Painful or loose teeth limit the consumption of fibrous foods, resulting in a diet high in cholesterol but low in protein, vitamins, and minerals. This imbalance may cause malnutrition, with deficiencies in essential nutrients like B12 and iron. Iron deficiency can manifest as a swollen tongue, cracked lips, ulcers, diarrhea, and weakness. Vitamin B12 deficiency may lead to inflamed mouth, burning tongue, and altered taste sensation. Even losing one tooth can disrupt bite and chewing efficiency, while multiple losses exacerbate malnutrition risks. Consider dentures to address these challenges.
Optimizing Senior Nutrition Choices
Optimizing Senior Nutrition Choices
Ensuring optimal nutrition becomes increasingly crucial as individuals age, particularly for seniors who experience reduced activity, slower metabolism, and diminished nutrient absorption. Despite these heightened nutritional requirements, many older adults in Canada grapple with poor nutrition. Various factors contribute to seniors consuming less, elevating their vulnerability to conditions like diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis. Learn how Misericordia Terrace prioritizes senior dining choices to proactively support residents in maintaining good health.
