“Tea and toast syndrome” refers to malnutrition in seniors when a lack of desire or inability to prepare and/or eat proper meals results in them relying on simpler meals like tea and toast. Seniors who skip meals almost daily, have gained/lost more than 10 pounds in the past six months, take medications, have dental issues, or have a disability can be at risk for malnutrition. Some common signs to watch for include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, memory issues, digestive issues, a weak immune system, muscle weakness, and anemia. There are support services available to help seniors eat well and regularly!

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.

Did you know a third of adults are not consuming the recommended amount of magnesium? A processed diet with mainly cooked foods can lead to a magnesium deficiency. This can result in fatigue, irritability, insomnia, confusion, or poor memory. Decreased levels of magnesium can also be linked to high blood pressure, kidney stones, and heart disease. Magnesium is considered the anti-stress mineral because of its natural tranquilizer/relaxer effect on skeletal and smooth muscle, including the blood vessels and heart! Eat your dark leafy greens, legumes, nuts, and fatty fish to get more magnesium in your diet.

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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.

This succulent is one of the most popular indoor plants for beginners and experts alike. Not only does this plant look great, but it is also low-maintenance, needing very little water to thrive. The most striking characteristic is the long and narrow leaves which sometimes present with white line(s) running lengthwise. It also has shown to have an affinity to filtering chemicals out of the air. A NASA study from 1989 showed just how effective the snake plant can be at reducing toxins and pollution from the atmosphere. Keep on in your bedroom or living room to help purify the air and improve your rest.

The effects of dementia are devastating to individuals and their families. Researchers are keen to find ways to ease its symptoms and restore abilities and memory. Studies on music and dementia have shown promising findings. Did you know that the area of the brain associated with musical memory tends to be least affected by dementia? Music therapy may help reduce cognitive decline while improving the memory of people with dementia. In one study, test subjects performed better on memory tests when they listened to music. It has also been found that the emotional content of music can bring back emotional memories.