Community News
Let’s Talk About Dementia

Do you have questions about the causes of dementia? Are you interested in knowing the risk factors of dementia or if there is a current treatment? Join us this World Alzheimer’s Month on Thursday, September 18, from 7 – 8:30 pm at Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain (CCFM), 340 Provencher Blvd. in Winnipeg and have your questions about dementia research answered by world-renowned researcher and neurologist, Dr. Donald Weaver. This event will also be live-streamed at participating Alzheimer Society locations, including Selkirk, Portage la Prairie, Brandon and Winkler. Learn more and reserve your spot today at alzheimer.mb.ca.

Is It ADHD or Just Menopause?

More women over 40 are seeking help for brain fog, forgetfulness, anxiety, and poor focus—often assuming it’s “just menopause.” While hormonal changes in perimenopause and postmenopause can impact memory and mood, there’s growing recognition that undiagnosed ADHD may also be at play. Declining estrogen, particularly estradiol, affects dopamine and serotonin—key neurotransmitters involved in attention and emotional regulation. For some women, this hormonal shift unmasks previously manageable attention challenges, tipping them into full-blown symptoms of ADHD. The overlap is striking: poor focus, emotional reactivity, insomnia, disorganization, and memory issues can be signs of either menopause or ADHD—or both. At Uptown Integrative Health, our team of Naturopathic doctors, nurse practitioner and therapist take a comprehensive approach: offering support in assessing hormonal health, lifestyle, and cognitive patterns.

Lightening the Load

Aging happens to everyone – no matter how young at heart. What’s reassuring is that we can take proactive steps to age well, stay active, and live independently for as long as possible. But when should you start thinking about home care? If you’ve noticed signs that a senior needs help at home, it’s likely time to start the conversation. Contrary to common belief, a senior doesn’t need to be frail or ill to benefit from professional home care. These services are designed not just for medical needs, but also to lighten the workload around the home, ensuring that daily tasks are manageable and stress-free. Early intervention with home care can help maintain a higher quality of life, enabling seniors to continue enjoying the activities they love in the comfort of their own homes.

What is Brainspotting?

Brainspotting is a brain-based therapy used for helping clients to process traumatic memories, experiences, or emotions. It is a “bottom-up” therapy, meaning it focuses on processing information stored in the mid-brain (emotional center), as opposed to talk therapy, which is a “top-down” therapy focused on processing information stored in the cerebral cortex (logical center). BSP often helps clients experience unique breakthroughs by reducing reactivity, unlocking creativity, processing trauma, and generally working toward significant progress in their healing journey. You may find that you experience fewer intrusive thoughts, less emotional activation, and an increased sense of freedom, fulfillment, or peace in various areas of life.

Struggling with Addiction?

Do you or someone you know struggle with substance abuse? Withdrawal from drugs or alcohol can be incredibly difficult to manage, but with the advancement of Low-Level Laser technology withdrawal and cravings can be minimal or nonexistent. Our confidential and professional clinic will help build a successful strategy for long-term success. Our Laser therapy sessions are combined with support and follow up consultations to maximize your chance for success. While staying off drugs or alcohol depends on your determination and support systems, our treatments are drug free and are effective with 3 out of 4 people.

Are Dentures Affecting Your Speech?

Speech changes are common when adjusting to new dentures, especially in the early days of wear. Dentures can feel bulky or unfamiliar, affecting how the tongue moves and touches the palate, which may lead to slurred words, lisps, or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds like “s” or “th.” As the tongue muscle adapt, speech typically improves with time and practice. Reading aloud, repeating tricky words, and speaking slowly can help speed up the adjustment. With patience and proper support, your speech will return to normal. If you have any questions, please reach out to your denturist.

Improve Your Focus & Concentration

Very often the brain and nervous system become fatigued and overloaded. Much like a computer receiving too much data all at once, the brain can become overwhelmed, slow down, or even crash. This can result in an inability to focus, brain fog, memory loss, ADD/ADHS-like symptoms, a “wired” feeling, or the inability to cope with daily life. The key to turning these conditions around is to give the body what it needs to strengthen specific areas of the brain and nervous system. This can be achieved naturally with specialized nutritional formulations, which will replenish the body and alleviate symptoms.

Don’t Forget Your Shades!

Sunglasses aren’t just a summer style statement—they’re a must-have for protecting your eyes. The sun’s UV rays can silently damage your eyes, leading to cataracts, macular degeneration, and even skin cancer around the lids. A good pair of sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection acts like sunscreen for your eyes. They also cut glare, sharpen vision, and help prevent headaches from squinting. Whether you’re hitting the beach, driving with the windows down, or enjoying a sunny patio, sunglasses keep your eyes safe and comfortable. So this summer, grab your shades before you step out—you’ll thank yourself later.

Balancing Your Blood Sugar Levels

Balancing blood sugar levels through diet is essential for overall health and managing conditions like diabetes. Here are some dietary tips to help achieve optimal blood sugar balance: 1. Choose complex carbohydrates: Opt for whole grains, legumes, and vegetables, which provide fiber and slow down glucose absorption. 2. Include lean proteins: Incorporate sources like poultry, fish, tofu, and beans, as they promote satiety and stabilize blood sugar levels. 3. Eat healthy fats: Incorporate sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil to help slow digestion and prevent spikes in blood sugar. 4. Control portion sizes: Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid excessive carbohydrate intake. 5. Limit sugary foods and beverages: Minimize consumption of sugary snacks, desserts, and sugary drinks. 6. Regular meal timings: Stick to regular meal timings to maintain consistent blood sugar levels. 7. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Did You Know?

Laughter has been shown to increase blood flow by 20%, which can be beneficial for your heart health.

Words to Live By

“Live your best life by focusing on the good and letting go of the negative. Peace begins within.” – Keith Macpherson