Learn more about our team, our upcoming seminars, get health tips to help you fighting cold and flu and steep a delicious immunity booster tea ! Click here to read the November issue in pdf
Cold and flu season is once again upon us. Naturopathic medicine offers many options to safely and effectively support your immune system. In our November issue, Dr Wendler will share some tips on how to keep your family healthy this winter
News
- Congratulations to Dr. Becky! This month, our Chiro ran and completed the Toronto Waterfront Scotiabank 1/2 marathon in 1:50:55!
- New seminar venue: we have booked the Fortinos’ Community Room for some of our upcoming talks. We wish to see you there! (The first session is about Green Cleaning in November).
- November 18, 19 & 20, 2011 visit our booth at The Christmas Show @ The Careport Centre, in Hamilton.
Upcoming events
- Irritable bowel disorder (IBS) and how to improve digestion! –Thursday Nov 10, with Carissa Doherty ND, at the Burlington Central Library
- A naturopathic approach to prenatal and pregnancy health –Tuesday Nov 15,with Carly Wendler ND, at Goodness Me Waterdown
- Cleaning Green – Thursday Nov 17, 6:30-7:30pm, with Carissa Doherty ND, at Fortinos Plains Rd E
- Hypothyroid –Thursday Nov 24, 6:30-7:30pm, with Carissa Doherty ND, at Goodness Me Waterdown
- Adrenal Fatigue – Saturday Nov 26, 2:30-3:30pm with Sonya Doherty ND, Goodness Me Burlington
- Raising A Natural Baby – Navigating The Early Years –Wednesday Nov 30, 7–8 pm with Carly Wendler ND, Goodness Me Burlington
For more info about our free seminars and reservation:
Focus on: Dr. Carly Wendler
Dr. Carly has a special interest in perinatal health and provides care to women and their families throughout preconception, pregnancy, labour and the postpartum period. She has clinical experience and training in dealing with fertility issues, pregnancy care, labour discomforts, postpartum, and pediatric concerns. She is a strong advocate for women and baby centered perinatal care and encourages families to make informed choices about pregnancy and birth care. For more information on Dr. Wendler’s perinatal services and blog, visit www.drcarlywendler.com.
Dr. Carly’s Health tips: Colds, Flu, and You
Do you have a tendency to suffer from several colds every winter? Are you already worried about potential sick days from work? Are you debating whether to get the flu shot? Read below for some important tips on how to maximize your immunity this winter.
The physical barriers of the skin and the cells lining the respiratory, digestive, and urinary tracts are your first line of defence against the microorganisms that make you sick. These cells must be healthy.
How do I get sick?
The common cold and influenza are caused by hundreds of different viruses and are transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets (i.e. sneezing, coughing). The viruses that cause cold and influenza can survive outside the body for several hours on your skin, door handles, money, and grocery cart handles. Your best primary line of defence against the yearly cold and flu is frequent and proper hand washing with hot water and soap, especially after coming into contact with a sick person.
Should I take antibiotics?
Viruses are not susceptible to the effects of antibiotics, so using antibiotics will have no effect on the duration or severity of your cold or flu. Some infections (especially of the throat and ear) may indeed be bacterial and will respond to these medications. To determine if you need antibiotics, ask your Doctor for a swab (this will indicate whether the infection is viral or bacterial, and can be treated appropriately).
Feeding your immune system
Nutritional support of your immune system may reduce your chances of getting a cold or flu, or at least reduce the duration and intensity of cold symptoms should you get sick. Key nutrients in maintaining optimum immunity include vitamins A, C, E, B6, Selenium, and Zinc.
Higher doses of vitamin C and Zinc, taken at the first sign of a cold or flu, can help reduce the severity of an illness. The best way to get the nutrition your body needs when sick, is to consume fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, clear soup broths, and plenty of water. Juicing is an excellent way to concentrate your daily vitamin and mineral requirements.
Why is my digestive system important?
Also important to care for and maintain is the health of the digestive system. Greater than 70% of your body’s immune system cells are located within the lining of your digestive tract! If this lining is compromised through poor dietary choices, stress, poor or inadequate sleep, or medication, the function of your immune system will be impaired and weakened as well.
Keep in mind there is no magic bullet for preventing the cold or flu. Each individual has a unique set of nutritional and lifestyle requirements, and these should be taken into consideration when attempting to treat any health care concern. Work with your Naturopathic Doctor to create a treatment plan that will keep you strong and healthy through the winter season.
Recipe: Dr Carissa’s immunity tea
Boost your immune function with Carissa’s immunity tea!
- Fresh, cold water,
- 1 orange cut into slices,
- 1 lemon cut into slices,
- 1 handful of frozen cranberries,
- 1 Tbsp of honey,
- Grated ginger root,
- Optional: a Rosehip or Echinacea teabag,
Bring the water to boil. Steep all the ingredients in it for at least 10 minutes and strain before serving!
Click here to read the November issue in pdf
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