Smoking harms the immune system by exposing the body to thousands of toxic chemicals that damage cells and reduce their ability to fight infections. It lowers levels of protective antioxidants, like vitamin C, and weakens immune cells such as white blood cells, making it harder to defend against viruses and bacteria. Smokers are more prone to illnesses like pneumonia, flu, and respiratory infections, and wounds or injuries often take longer to heal. Over time, smoking can also trigger chronic inflammation, which further disrupts immune balance. Quitting smoking allows the immune system to gradually recover and function more effectively.
Food to Never Feed Your Dog
All pet owners are aware of the dangers of chocolate. But have you heard of these ones? Keep your pup away from the following: 1. Onions – Plants of this family, including chives and garlic, are not suitable for dogs. Eating these could cause your animal to develop anemia, weakness, rapid breathing and even death. 2. Grapes or Raisins – This fruit can cause severe liver damage and kidney failure. It’s been proven that even a few grapes can potentially be fatal for your pet. 3. Xylitol – Is found in gum, baked goods, and anything else that is sugar substituted. It is extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause seizures, liver failure or even death.
Community Events
Celebrate lively Elvis Tribute Shows. Enjoy great music and a welcoming community atmosphere, perfect for the whole family. Falcon Lake Hotel, Oct. 10 Buffet Dinner & Elvis Show $85.00 Dinner: 6 pm, Show Time 7:30. Brandon ANAF – Oct.17. $20 Show Time: 7:30. Fort Garry United Church – Oct.24. Gospel Elvis Show, Show Time 2:30, prize for best costume! Dance Nov. 14, 11:00 Pembina Highway. Oakbank Hotel- Nov.21. $20 Show Time: 7 pm. Check website for updates or contact Denny Bouchard for details. 204-470-6993 or [email protected]
Fighting the Flu
When you have the flu or are not feeling well, the best thing for you to do is make yourself cozy and to rest comfortably at home while you recover. Drink plenty of fluids, get lots of rest, use a humidifier and make sure you have flu season health essentials on hand, including: Acetaminophen for fever, headache and minor aches and pains. Decongestants to relieve congestion and clear nasal passages. Sprays or lozenges to soothe a sore throat. Speak with your doctor about flu shots, prevention, appropriate symptom relief and other ways to stay healthy this flu season.
Screen Time and Vision Health
In today’s digital world, many people spend hours on phones, computers, and tablets, which can strain the eyes and impact vision. Prolonged screen use often leads to digital eye strain, causing symptoms such as dryness, blurred vision, headaches, and difficulty focusing. Staring at screens reduces blinking, which lowers tear production and worsens dry eye symptoms. To protect vision, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Adjusting screen brightness, maintaining good posture, and using blue light filters and ocular lubricants can also help. Regular eye exams are essential for long-term digital use eye health.
Words To Live By
“A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all the other virtues.” – Cicero (106–43 BC)
Words To Live By
“The roots of all goodness lie in the soil of appreciation for goodness.” – Dalai Lama
Clean Eating Recipe
Organic Cranberry Cleansing Smoothie. This Smoothie is loaded with antioxidants! 2 Cups Red Kale. 16 oz Pure Coconut Water. 1 Cup Organic Cranberries (fresh or frozen) 1 Cup Fresh Pineapple Chunks. 1 Organic Lemon (ends cut and quartered) 2 Bananas Frozen. 4 Mint Leaves. 1 Tbsp Organic Black Chia Seeds. Blend the red kale and Coconut water until broken down. Add the fruits and Chia Seeds, blend until smooth.
Did You Know?
Getting enough sleep may help reduce arthritis flare ups. Quality sleep supports the body’s natural healing processes and can help lessen pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
Community Spotlight: FSWC
First Steps Wellness Centre (FSWC) is a charitable non-profit organization founded in 2010 and a leading Canadian provider of spinal cord injury and neurorehabilitation services. We deliver innovative activity-based therapy (ABT) to individuals with spinal cord injuries and associated disorders, as well as stroke, traumatic brain injuries, and other neurological conditions. Our goal is to improve motor function, independence, and quality of life following neurological trauma or disease. FSWC fills a critical gap in community-based, intensive ABT, supporting neuroplasticity and recovery below the level of injury. We believe every individual has the potential to regain lost function and remain committed to advancing neurorehabilitation in Canada.
World Alzheimer’s Month
Hearing the words, “you have dementia,” can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate your next steps alone – the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba is your path forward to community and connection. This World Alzheimer’s Month, the Society encourages you to broaden your understanding of dementia and get involved with its events, programs and supports taking place across the province this fall. Nine Manitobans develop dementia every day. If you are directly impacted by dementia, the Society is the place to turn. Its First Link® Client Support program, online education sessions, dementia-friendly programs and support groups provide education on dementia progression, future planning, treatment, risk reduction and building dementia-friendly communities.


