Community News
Teen Hearing Loss

Portable music players are great devices. But did you know they can produce sound loud enough to cause permanent hearing loss? Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is steadily growing amongst young adults. NIHL results from loud and prolonged exposure to noise greater than 85 decibels. The damage is permanent, but often goes ignored because it is painless and occurs gradually over time, before people notice they are having hearing difficulties. Individual MP3 players, and the ones used by cell phones, can easily reach between 100 and 115 decibels. This means permanent damage to your hearing begins after only a few minutes. When using these devices, turn down the volume and protect your hearing.

Natural Product Review: Cardioflex Q10

Cardioflex Q10 is a Manitoba-made nutritional supplement designed for cardiovascular health. With a unique blend of vitamins and amino proteins, Cardioflex Q10 is a supportive natural therapy that enriches cardiovascular health, establishes cholesterol balance and reduces CRP (C-reactive protein). With this product you can expect some amazing results: Strengthen your cardiovascular system, dissolve atherosclerotic plaque, lessen the pain of angina pectoris, reduce the likelihood of heart attack or stroke, increase heart and other muscle strength and stamina, lower blood and tissue lipids (fats), and increase antioxidant intake. Give yourself natural immunity against viral, fungal, and bacterial diseases, including antibiotic-resistant strains. Reduce hypertension and improve overall health!

Serrapeptase, the Little Miracle Enzyme!

Serrapeptase has been proven to be a safe and effective alternative to NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen) and should be taken on an empty stomach. The capsule must be a special DRcap (Delayed Release capsule) which allows the Serrapeptase to pass through the stomach to the small intestine, where the enzyme is then released. Serrapeptase is an enzyme that breaks down long protein chains into amino acids that the body needs. These enzymes roam through the bloodstream, seeking to break down hard protein (non-living tissue), fibrin surfaces, scar tissue, and granuloma, and even thin out mucous to ease conditions such as chronic sinusitis.

Community Event

Self-Love & Acceptance Group. Eight sessions (once/week), dates and times will be based on registrants’ interest and availability. Sparham Counselling 204-806-9777

New Year Resolutions

It’s wonderful to want to make changes in your life. The problem is, change doesn’t happen overnight, and most resolutions end up being abandoned. Then we feel guilty about it. Consider, instead, small sustainable steps towards a healthier lifestyle. Being healthy isn’t just about what we eat and how much we weigh. Real wellness includes how we talk to ourselves, our outlook on life, and how we deal with stress. Feeling better can start with any of these things. See January as only the beginning of your wellness journey!

Organic vs. Conventional Produce

Did you know that a healthy diet need not be comprised of organic food only? In fact, some organically grown and produced foods confer no greater health benefits than conventionally grown options. How do you decide? A general rule of thumb is to choose organic when it comes to soft or thin-skinned fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, and meats. Good conventional choices consist of most thick-skinned foods, and exceptions like kiwi, onions, cauliflower, cabbage, and asparagus. In all cases, frozen and fresh contain comparable nutrient content. When buying organic, look for the “certified organic” seal to ensure authenticity. Sean Miller, CMHA MB and Winnipeg, MBWPG.CMHA.ca

Vegan Cashew “Cheese”

Are you interested in trying a vegan diet, but aren’t ready to give up all cheese? You must give this recipe a try! Here’s what you need: 3/4 cup raw cashews, 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast, 3/4 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ tablespoon lemon juice, ¼ cup water, ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar, black pepper to taste. Here’s how to do it: Place cashews in a bowl with warm water and soak for at least 2 hours. Drain and add to food processor along with all other ingredients. Pulse until thoroughly combined. Enjoy this “cheesy” alternative!
Adapted from www.eatliveandplay.com

Book Club: Ageless Soul

Living a Full Life with Joy and Purpose by Thomas Moore. Aging is the process by which one becomes a more distinctive, complex, fulfilled, loving, and connected person. Using examples from his practice as a psychotherapist and teacher who lectures widely on the soul of medicine and spirituality, Moore argues for a new vision of aging: as a dramatic series of initiations, rather than a diminishing experience, one that each of us has the tools―experience, maturity, fulfillment―to live out. Ageless Soul will teach readers how to embrace the richness of experience and how to take life on, accept invitations to new vitality, and feel fulfilled as they get older.

Communication Tips for Dementia

1. Set a positive mood. Use warm facial expressions and tone of voice to help convey your message and show your feelings of affection.
2. Listen with your ears, eyes, and heart. Be patient in waiting for your loved one’s reply. Watch for nonverbal cues and respond appropriately.
3. Remember the good ol’ days. Reminiscing is a soothing activity. Many people with dementia may not remember what happened 30 minutes ago, but they can clearly recall their lives 30 years earlier.
4. Laugh a little or a lot! Use humour whenever possible. People with dementia tend to retain their social skills and are usually delighted to laugh along with you.
Alevtina (Alia) Tuhari, Reliable Home Care Agency Inc., ReliableHomeCare.ca

Matchmaking Testimonial

“I joined Camelot Introductions and found the love of my life! If it wasn’t for Lianne’s persistence, and her innate ability for matching people, then I would still be floundering. On-line dating was a waste of my time. Camelot was exactly what I was looking for – a professional service dedicated to matching people with similar interests and dreams. Getting married in November – I’ve never been happier! Thanks Lianne!”
~Brian. Camelot Introductions, CamelotIntroductions.com

No “Quick Fix” for Hearing Concerns

There’s more to hearing loss than just hearing aids. The growing market for over-the-counter amplification devices has concerned the Speech-Language and Audiology Canada (SAC) and Canadian Academy of Audiology (CAA) associations. According to these associations, hearing loss can be affected by a number of factors such as earwax, genetics, illness, medication, trauma, noise exposure, and age. Determining the underlying cause of one’s hearing loss through a complete hearing assessment should be the first step in your hearing healthcare. Purchasing an over-the-counter amplifier ignores the possibility that further medical assistance may be necessary. Don’t self-diagnose. If you have questions about your hearing, see a certified hearing specialist. Enhanced Hearing Centres, EnhancedHearingCentres.com