Acupuncture is part of an ancient Traditional Chinese medical system that aims to restore order and balance to the body. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), acupuncture can be used for a variety of issues such as digestive, emotional, menstrual, respiratory, fertility, neurological, musculoskeletal and addiction. In recent years, several clinical studies have proven that acupuncture is effective for people who do not want to take medication, have allergies/sensitivities to medications or have intolerable side effects to medication. The benefits of acupuncture include: enhanced mental clarity and energy, stress reduction, immune stimulation, pain control and improved circulation.

We are pleased to announce that finally, after a year and a half of hard work and much deliberation, we received our letter of No Objection from Health Canada! We are going ahead with our research project investigating the use of stem cells for osteoarthritis. If you would like more information about this ground-breaking research project, the first of its kind in Canada please visit www.pagdinhealth.com and www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03984461.

Practicing social distancing and self-isolation is an important way to help limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Older adults are at the greatest risk of severe illness from COVID-19, and family members should avoid exposing their loved ones to the virus. But social distancing can have a negative impact on your loved one’s mental health, so what are some ways to socialize with them safely? 1) Stay in touch with regular phone calls and/or texts. 2) Use video chat to have a virtual dinner party, movie night, or game night. 3) Arrange homecare services to support your loved one.

Dr. Gina Neonakis, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor, practicing at Dawn Health and Wellness clinic in White Rock. She has a focus in women’s health and fertility and supports women of all ages with conditions such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), endometriosis, hormonal imbalances and menopause. Dr. Neonakis’ goal is to empower her patients to take control of their health by educating and supporting them along their unique journey. She aims to treat the underlying cause of conditions, rather than suppressing them. To book an appointment with Dr. Neonakis, call 604-385-3286 or visit GinaNeonakis.com to book online.

Did you know that chewing is the first step in the digestion process? Chewing your food properly and thoroughly helps create more surface area for your digestive enzymes to break down your food into useable parts for your body to function, re-build tissue, and fuel your body and your brain. If you suffer from bloating or heaviness, or feel sleepy after meals, an easy way to help your stomach feel better is to slow down while eating, by thoroughly chewing and avoiding distractions such as smartphones and TVs. Take time to enjoy your food and feel better by doing so!

ACTIVE RELEAF aims to encourage active wellness through the use of nature’s most powerful ingredients. Offering a collection of plant-based wellness products, ACTIVE RELEAF’s WELLNESS TINCTURE is their strongest remedy. Used as a natural plant-based alternative for people experiencing anxiety, insomnia, pain, inflammation and other ailments. The WELLNESS TINCTURE is formulated with a high concentration of broad spectrum cannabinoid-rich hemp plant extract, paired with coconut MCT oil to help deliver cannabinoids and increase bioavailability. Taken sublingually (under the tongue) or mixed into your favourite beverage. With three different concentration options (400mg, 1000mg & 2000mg) and measured droppers, dosing is accurate and flexible for your needs.

Spring and summer are typical times for allergies to trees, grasses, pollens, and dust to manifest increased symptoms. Simply rinsing nasal passages and eyes with a normal saline solution several times a day is a quick way to reduce symptoms before they become worse. Use of allergy medications (sprays and tablets) can help reduce symptoms further. There are many people who suffer from allergy-like symptoms who do not have the typical immunoglobulin response on testing. These sensitivities and intolerances still need to be identified and treated in order to obtain long-term symptom relief and allow the immune and detoxification systems to work properly.

Preventing the Spread of Infectious Disease IS IN YOUR HANDS. The single most effective way to prevent the spread of infectious disease, including COVID-19, is to wash your hands often and well. At work, promoting good hygiene, aside from having people stay home when they’re sick, is your best defense. Scrub for 20 seconds, lathering the front, back, fingertips, behind the nails, and between your fingers. To be proactive, skip handshakes and use a tissue or cloth to open door handles. Promote good hand hygiene at work with downloadable posters on resources.

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is commonly seen in sports such as soccer, rugby, and skiing. Although many individuals initially recover well, the ongoing instability often prevents return to sports and leads to further knee injury, and the risk of developing future osteoarthritis becomes increased. Bracing is rarely sufficient. Surgical reconstruction performed early, within 3-6 weeks, helps to minimize the risk of further injury. ACL surgery should be treated as an urgent matter: assessment, diagnosis, and surgery can usually be completed within a few weeks. The athlete, elite, or weekend-warrior can then start early rehabilitation to maximize the benefits of the knee reconstruction.