Today more than ever, a healthy immune system is important. According to Healthline, Aronia berries may strengthen the immune system and even counteract some infections. Aronia –grown in BC – contains powerful antioxidants that remove harmful free oxygen radicals from cells. In the spectrum of nutrition, berries rank near the top, and among berries, none are more nutritious than the Aronia berry. Research shows that in diabetics, Aronia berry juice, when taken regularly, reduced blood glucose. Aronia extracts have also reduced inflammation and improved immunity. In hard-to-treat cancers, combining Aronia with chemotherapy improved the effectiveness of conventional drugs.
Community News
Gambling Awareness and Education
Gambling has become progressively more complex with the growth of online gambling products worldwide, including sports betting apps, websites, as well as a variety of in-person and lottery products. Vancouver Island Gaming Support (VIGS) helps navigate this emerging landscape. VIGS contracts with Gambling Support BC (GSBC) to offer education and awareness workshops to anyone in the community interested in learning more about gambling-related topics. Topics include seniors and casinos, young adults and sports betting, affected families and friends, brain chemistry and behavioural addictions and more. We also provide outreach support and counselling services at no charge. We are here to help.
Cracks at the Corner of Your Mouth?
Angular cheilitis is a common skin condition that causes inflammation, redness and cracking at the corners of the mouth. It can be caused by wearing old dentures that have lost their proper height. Loss of denture height leads to overclosure of the mouth, which can cause the buildup of moisture and saliva at the corners of the mouth. Factors like saliva accumulation, poorly fitted dentures or excessive lip licking can create a moist environment that contributes to this condition. To prevent angular cheilitis, it is essential to have well-designed dentures and maintain diligent oral hygiene to minimize discomfort. Checking for proper denture height can be a quick, 5-minute appointment.
As Winter Comes
Most everyone on the West Coast knows, November brings with it more rain and overcast skies. Many people experience an effect on their mood during this time, which can certainly make things more difficult. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a known phenomenon, where the winter weather affects moods and outlook on life. A couple strategies to help overcome these “winter blues” is to continue with those all-important self-care strategies of enjoyable activities, and the regular use of a full-spectrum light of some sort throughout your day! Fight back against the dreary with light!
Foods for Brain Health
The best foods for supporting memory and brain function are those that encourage good blood flow to the brain. Research suggests the following foods may help keep your brain sharp and improve your cognitive function, memory and alertness. 1) Broccoli, cabbage and dark leafy greens. Enjoy salads, wraps and stir-fries. 2) Walnuts. Can be added to salads or oatmeal or just eaten on their own. 3) Berries and cherries. Can be eaten fresh as a snack or added to oatmeal or baked goods. 4) Omega-3 fatty acids. Can be found in seafood, flaxseeds and fatty fish.
Community Health Centres in Victoria
The Victoria Community Health Co-operative is currently offering Nursing services based on a Community Health Centre model. Services are available at no cost with a BC MSP card. We are located in Cook Street Village at #200-1075 Pendergast Street. Our nurses are able to assist you by providing a nursing assessment and recommendations. We provide navigation services to assist you to connect with other healthcare providers as required. In keeping with the principle of community well-being, we offer wellness sessions on a regular basis. Contact us or visit our website to find out more.
Is It Time to Move?
Here are items to consider when pondering whether it’s time to make a move: 1. Does your home still suit your lifestyle? Consider the amount of space you need and if mobility issues are a concern. 2. Do you require a change in location to be closer to family, kids, recreation, shopping or medical specialists? 3. Would downsizing be financially beneficial? Perhaps the equity in your home could fund investments, trips or gifts to family. Moving to another town to be close to friends and family may enable you to enjoy the same type of home at a lower cost. Contact us to chat about your real estate needs.
Brain Teaser Answers
1. Your Breath. 2. An hourglass—It has thousands of grains of sand. 3. A candle.
November Brain Teasers
1. What is harder to catch the faster you run? 2. A sundial has the fewest moving parts of any timepiece. Which has the most? 3. I’m tall when I’m young, and I’m short when I’m old. What am I?
Clean Eating Recipe: Hot Chocolate
Store bought hot chocolate “packets” contain massive amounts of sugar and even hydrogenated oils (an unexpected, undesirable ingredient). You can serve this with whipped cream made of organic heavy cream with a little bit of Monk Fruit Sweetener.
1/3 c full fat coconut milk (unsweetened)
2/3 c boiling water
1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp vanilla
Monk Fruit Sweetener
(optional) 1-2 drops peppermint oil, whipped cream, or cocoa nibs
Boil water on the stove. Add in all remaining ingredients. Stir well. Let cool a little bit, serve and enjoy!
Simple Sweet Potato Soup
1 Tbsp olive oil; 1 white onion diced; 3 cloves minced garlic; 2 Tbsp grated ginger; 2 pounds sweet potatoes peeled, cut into small pieces; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 Tbsp sliced green onions or chives. Place a large pot on the stove over medium high heat. Add in olive oil and onion and sauté until tender, about 7 min. Add in garlic and ginger and sauté 1 min more. Add in sweet potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer until tender. Transfer soup to blender and blend until smooth. Return to a pot over low heat and add in cheese. Serve topped with green onions or chives.
