Thursday, September 26, 2019

5 Supplements For Immune System Health

5 Supplements For Immune System Health

When we talk about eating to “stay healthy,” we're talking about eating food that supports our immune system. After all, it's our immune system that keeps us healthy.

Many people see naturopathic doctors to better understand what they need to do to strengthen their immune system.

Here are a few tips to make your immune system’s job easier.

What Does Your Immune System Do?

Your immune system is your body's defense against illness and infections.

Its job is to recognize structures that don’t belong in your bloodstream, work to remove them, and then remember this foreign structure so it’s properly equipped to fight it off if it comes back.

There are conditions where the immune system functions too weakly, and then other conditions when the immune system works “too well”.

One example when this system works too well is seasonal allergies. Pollen will trigger an immune response (when not necessary) that causes all the symptoms we endure.

Another example of this is in autoimmune disease. Your immune system becomes confused between what is foreign and what is “self” and starts attacking your own cells. This can cause all kinds of difficult-to-manage symptoms.

There are many different autoimmune diseases. Some of the more common ones include rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and lupus.

What Happens When Your Immune System Is Weak?

The immune system needs to get the right nutrients to be in fighting form.

When it’s starved of what it needs, it grows weaker and weaker, until it is unable to properly combat viruses or illnesses.

Your body uses white blood cells – called macrophages – to patrol your body. They’re your first line of defense.

However, sometimes a virus can get by these cells and infect your system. This means your body needs stronger cells: T cells and B cells.

A healthy body will make upwards of a billion white blood cells every single day. But if it can’t produce enough, it can't mount an effective defense response.

Viruses are more likely to get past the macrophages if there aren’t enough of them to patrol properly.

If your body doesn't produce enough T cells and B cells, it may not be able to give you the “acquired immunity” to the virus. This means the same viral strain could make you sick again in the future.

5 Nutrients To Strengthen Your Immune System

So you see why it’s so important to ensure that your immune system gets the fuel it needs to function.

The good news is a healthy diet rich in the nutrients can help.

Read on below for our top five recommendations for a healthy immune system.

foods good for immune health | Annex Naturopathic Clinic | Toronto Naturopathic Doctors

1. Vitamin C

We’ve heard it for years growing up: if you’re getting sick, you should start taking vitamin C.

But the truth is that if you’re getting sick, it’s too late – you need preventative vitamin C to stave off a cold.

You can get your vitamin C from citrus fruits, as just about everyone knows. But there are more plentiful sources, like kale, spinach, Brussels sprouts, and strawberries.

Last tip for vitamin C: save your money on supplementing. Many foods contain enough to keep you healthy.

Instead, take that money and invest it in other supplements for vitamins your body CAN’T absorb as easily, such as our next vitamin.

2. Vitamin D

Your doctor may have recommended vitamin D to you. This is because if you live in Canada, you're probably deficient in vitamin D

Do your best to take in vitamin D in the form of flax and fatty fishes, such as salmon, tuna, sardines and mackerel. But for most, you'll need to supplement.

Not only can it help with your immune system, vitamin D can lift your mood. This can, in turn, have a positive effect on your immune response.

3. Iron

Although vegetarians and vegans have to be extra mindful of their iron intake, it might surprise you how much iron you can get from non-meat sources.

Kale, broccoli and beans are all excellent sources of iron.

For omnivores, you can get a massive dose of iron from oysters and other seafoods, or from lean poultry such as chicken and turkey.

4. Zinc

Zinc is a superhero among immunity-boosting vitamins. It helps slow down overactive immune responses, while also controlling inflammation.

Slowing an overactive immune response may seem like a counterproductive action for when you’re sick. You may be surprised to learn, though, that most of your symptoms while you’re sick is produced by the immune response, not the infection itself.

Slowing down the immune response means that Zinc can keep the immune system active enough to fight off the infection, but control the immune response enough that your symptoms are not out of control.

Oysters once again top the list, as well as lean meats and poultry, crab, beans, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, and yogurt.

5. Selenium

Like zinc, selenium can slow the overactive immune response.

Get your selenium intake through sardines, tuna, garlic, broccoli, and Brazil nuts.

Contact Annex Naturopathic

If you’ve been feeling under the weather more often than not lately, it could be a problem with your immune system.

It might be time to boost your immunity with supplements and an improved diet.

Call Annex Naturopathic now to book an appointment. Let's create a personalized, targeted strategy to boost your immune in time for winter.

If you’re curious to learn more about this subject or would like to consult with one of our NDs feel free to book a visit or contact us.

Yours in Health,

Annex Naturopathic Clinic
572 Bloor St W #201, Toronto, ON M6G 1K1

-https://goo.gl/maps/uVRBvcyoUa62

Annex Naturopathic Clinic is a clinic in Toronto that offers integrative healthcare solutions from Drs. Marnie Luck, ND, and Tanya Lee, ND


See additional ideas about health, wellness, naturopathy, and medicine at: naturopath Toronto



Sunday, September 22, 2019

Is Your Child Deficient In Vitamin D?

Is Your Child Deficient In Vitamin D? | Annex Naturopathic Clinic | Toronto Naturopathic Doctors

Vitamin D keeps our bones strong and healthy.

But did you know it's also one of the most common vitamin deficiencies, especially in Canada?

Vitamin D deficiency is an issue affecting people of all ages, but especially children and teens.

Whether it's due to lack of sunlight or picky eating, it's important to ensure your child has sufficient vitamin D.

It's necessary for a lot more than bone growth.

But what are the signs and symptoms of a vitamin D deficiency? And what can you do to make sure your child has all the necessary nutrients?

You can find answers by contacting a naturopath for children in Toronto.

Keep reading to learn more about this all-too-common vitamin deficiency.

What Is Vitamin D?

Vitamin D is an essential vitamin your skin produces, or synthesizes, after sunlight exposure.

After it's synthesized, your liver and kidneys transform it into the vitamin D your body needs.

Vitamin D is important for many reasons. It helps you absorb other vitamins and minerals, first of all.

For example, it increases your gut absorption of calcium, magnesium, phosphate, and others.

It's also necessary for healthy bone growth, cardiovascular health, balancing hormones, and helping your immune system function properly.

There are many benefits to making sure your child has enough vitamin D in their system.

These benefits include:

May reduce risk of multiple sclerosis, or MS
• May reduce risk of certain types of cancer, including colon and breast cancer
• May reduce risk of contracting the common cold
• May improves lung function, especially in those with asthma and/or COPD

What Are The Symptoms Of Vitamin D Deficiency In Children?

The most common symptoms of a vitamin D deficiency you should keep an eye out for in your child are chronic fatigue and frequent illness.

Severe vitamin D deficiencies happen, but they are quite rare. If left untreated, they can cause bone diseases such as rickets or osteomalacia.

Additionally, having a lack of vitamin D may cause a delay in the age your child starts walking.

When it comes to infants, low levels of vitamin D are linked to low birth weights.

If your young one is always exhausted or comes down with a cold more often than you'd expect, consider getting them tested for a vitamin D deficiency.

vitamin D deficiency in children and babies | Annex Naturopathic Clinic | Toronto Naturopathic Doctors

Risk Factors For Vitamin D Deficiency

There are a few risk factors that may increase your child's chances of developing a vitamin D deficiency.

These factors include:

Insufficient sun exposure

You need sun exposure to generate the vitamin D your body needs.

But for those of us who live in Toronto, there isn't much direct sunlight for much of the year.

In fact, the higher you live in latitude, the greater your risk of vitamin D deficiency.

Even for those who live in tropical climates, though, our modern habits of spending most of our time indoors can cause vitamin d deficiency.

Obesity

Especially in children, excess body weight is associated with vitamin D deficiency.

This 2013 study highlights this.

In general, obesity is becoming a larger issue. According to this 2016 study, one Canadian child in seven was found to be overweight or obese.

Darker skin tone

Melanin is known to naturally block UVB rays and interfere with vitamin D production.

As a result, those with more melanin in their skin are at greater risk of being deficient in vitamin D.

How Common Is Vitamin D Deficiency In Children?

Unfortunately, vitamin D is one of the most common deficiencies in Canada. This includes children.

This is particularly problematic because vitamin D is necessary for healthy bone growth. So you want to ensure your child has all the building blocks necessary for their well-being.

Although this 2011 study doesn't cite a specific number, it does say that vitamin D deficiency among children is "common".

Should You Give Your Child Vitamin D Supplements?

Before you start shopping for supplements, it's best to know exactly how much vitamin D your child needs. Getting them tested for vitamin deficiencies is a great way to do this.

This is a common and simple blood test that your naturopathic doctor or family doctor can order for you.

If you have a baby who is formula-fed, however, most formulas on the market are fortified with vitamin D.

The general rule for breast-fed infants is to take 400 IU of vitamin D every day to prevent deficiency.

For children over the age of 1 year (and adults, up to age 70), the Institute of Medicine recommends 600 IU of vitamin D daily.

However, these are just guidelines. Not medical advice.

Vitamin and mineral supplements can boost your health, but you should consider consulting a naturopathic doctor when incorporating them into your family's routine.

Contact Annex Naturopathic

Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common vitamin and mineral deficiencies affecting children. It can seriously impact bone growth, respiratory health, and overall well-being.

Is your little one is feeling sluggish or fatigued? Are they not feeling their best? If so, consider having them tested for a vitamin D deficiency.

Thankfully, there are natural solutions to help you and your family deal with vitamin deficiencies.

Contact us at Annex Naturopathic for all-natural treatment options.

We can tell you all there is to know about vitamin and mineral deficiencies, how they affect your health, and how you can get your family on the path to wellness.

We understand the importance of your child's health and well-being, and we can help.

Contact Annex Naturopathic today.

 

If you’re curious to learn more about this subject or would like to consult with one of our NDs feel free to book a visit or contact us.

Yours in Health,

Annex Naturopathic Clinic

572 Bloor St W #201, Toronto, ON M6G 1K1
-https://goo.gl/maps/uVRBvcyoUa62

Annex Naturopathic Clinic is a clinic in Toronto that offers integrative healthcare solutions from Drs. Marnie Luck, ND, and Tanya Lee, ND


Find more info about health, wellness, naturopathy, and medicine at: naturopathic clinic in Toronto



Thursday, September 19, 2019

Does Your Baby Have A Food Allergy?

Does Your Baby Have A Food Allergy? | Annex Naturopathic Clinic | Toronto Naturopathic Doctors

What you eat affects not only you and your health, but the health of your baby as well.

Food allergies and sensitivities are a tricky one to figure out - they are difficult to pinpoint and difficult to effectively treat.

If you suspect your baby is experiencing a food allergy, contact a Toronto children’s health naturopath for natural solutions.

In the meantime, let's take a closer look at infant food allergies and sensitivities.

What are the symptoms? How are they developed? And how can you help your baby feel better?

Read on to find out.

Do Food Allergies Pass Into Your Breast Milk?

Certain food proteins pass to your baby through your breast milk. This can result in an allergic or sensitive reaction in your baby to that food.

Additionally, if one of the child’s parents have food allergies, the infant is more likely to have one as well.

Some foods are more likely to cause reactions than others. These include cow's milk, peanuts or tree nuts, gluten, soy, eggs, corn, fish, and shellfish.

In babies and young children, the most common food sensitivity/allergy to develop is to cow's milk.

A recent study conducted by the World Allergy Organization found that infants who are breast-fed exclusively are less likely to develop an allergy/sensitivity to cow's milk.

The study concludes that mothers of breast-fed infants with a cow's milk allergy should continue breast-feeding, but avoid foods containing cow's milk protein.

What Happens When Your Baby Has A Food Allergy?

There are various types of food allergies and immune reactions that may affect your baby.

The true allergy is the rarest and most serious form of allergic reaction.

This immune reaction (typically known as an anaphylactic reaction) happens quickly – within 2 hours of consuming food – and can result in anaphylaxis.

Food sensitivities are much more common than true allergies and the symptoms they produce are much less scary. Their symptoms can occur anywhere between a few hours to a few days after food intake.

Although food sensitivity reactions are immediately life-threatening, they have a few possible effects that can affect your body in the long term. Common consumption these foods can increase gut inflammation, alter your baby's immune balance, leading to discomfort and weakened immunity in your child.

When your little one is suffering from a food allergy or sensitivity, the symptoms can manifest in many different ways.

Let's take a more in-depth look at the symptoms of infant food allergies.

Symptoms Of Food Allergies In Babies

The primary symptom of the rare and life-threatening true food allergy is anaphylaxis. It's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• Difficulty swallowing and breathing
• Puffy, swollen lips and eyes
• Hives
• Diarrhea, vomiting, and/or abdominal pain
• Itchy mouth

If your baby is experiencing the above symptoms, contact emergency health services immediately.

As we mentioned earlier, the symptoms of food sensitivity reactions are more delayed and less serious than true allergies.

Typically, the following symptoms will occur if your little one is experiencing a reaction to a food sensitivity.

The most common signs of food sensitivity in an infant include:

Dermatological symptoms – hives, rashes, and eczema
Gastrointestinal symptoms – diarrhea, constipation, failure to thrive, colic or irritability, vomiting, food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (or FPIES), lack of appetite
• Respiratory symptoms – chronic cough, runny nose, shortness of breath, wheezing, asthma, recurring illnesses (cold, flu, ear infections)

What To Do If Your Baby Shows Food Allergy Symptoms?

If you suspect that your baby may have an anaphylactic reaction to a certain food, consult your primary health care provider. They will refer you appropriately to an allergist that can perform the necessary testing to determine anaphylaxis. Do not attempt to figure this out on your own.

If you suspect your baby may be experiencing a food sensitivity, there are steps you can take to determine which food is causing the reaction.

The best method, and the only way to get to the bottom of your child's symptoms, is an elimination diet.

how to tell if your baby has fod allegies | Annex Naturopathic Clinic | Toronto Naturopathic Doctors

1. The Elimination Diet

The elimination diet is exactly what it sounds like. You eliminate certain foods from your diet. Then, you slowly start adding them back in to figure out which one is the culprit.

It's important to eliminate all the potentially allergens at the same time, instead of one at a time.

This is to give your baby the best chance to get healthy and feel better as soon as possible.

The foods you should eliminate in such a diet include:

• Dairy
• Eggs
• Soy
• Gluten
• Peanuts and tree nuts
• Fish and shellfish
• Corn
• Nightshades, a family of fruits/vegetables including tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers
• Caffeine
• Sugar
• Alcohol
• Citrus

Although it may be stressful, the elimination diet may leave you feeling a lot better.

It's possible you and your child may share a food sensitivity. This is because of the way your baby is exposed to your immune cells during pregnancy and during breastfeeding. Therefore, if your baby is exclusively nursing, then you would be the one doing the elimination diet. If the baby is eating food, and is nursing, both mom and baby would have to do the elimination diet.

It's crucial you eat enough calories, both for your own health and also to maintain a good supply of breast milk.

There are many delicious and nutritious recipes available online that can make the elimination diet a lot easier to master.

You should continue eating without any of the above foods for 5-8 weeks before beginning the next step of the process. This step is reintroducing the potential allergenic foods to your diet.

2. Slowly Reintroduce Eliminated Foods

After you've eliminated potential allergens from your diet for the allotted period, it's time to slowly start bringing them back into your life.

It's key to test one food at a time, and monitor the health of you and your baby.

If either of you experience any symptoms at all after the first or second meal including the test food, stop eating it. After that, keep an eye out for further reactions.

It can be helpful to keep a written log of what foods you're testing, and what reactions are occurring in you or your baby.

If your baby still reacts to a specific food through this process, remove it from your diet completely for 6 months. After that, test it again.

The best and safest way to go about the elimination diet is to do it under the supervision of your naturopathic doctor. Call us to find out more about the specifics of this process.

Contact Annex Naturopathic

Food sensitivities and allergies can be frustrating and difficult to pin down. This is especially true when they're affecting the health and well-being of your baby.

But you're not alone – there are natural solutions available to you and your little one.

If you have questions about food allergies, sensitivities, or the elimination diet, contact us at Annex Naturopathic.

We'd love to get to know you and your baby, and help you diagnose and overcome tricky food sensitivities.

If you or your infant are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms of a food sensitivity, we can help.

Contact Annex Naturopathic today.

If you’re curious to learn more about this subject or would like to consult with one of our NDs feel free to book a visit or contact us.

Yours in Health,

Annex Naturopathic Clinic
572 Bloor St W #201, Toronto, ON M6G 1K1

-https://goo.gl/maps/uVRBvcyoUa62

Annex Naturopathic Clinic is a clinic in Toronto that offers integrative healthcare solutions from Drs. Marnie Luck, ND, and Tanya Lee, ND


Learn more info on health, wellness, naturopathy, and medicine at: naturopathic doctors Toronto



Tuesday, August 13, 2019

Naturopathic & Alternative Treatments For Chronic Pain

Naturopathic & Alternative Treatments For Chronic Pain | Annex Naturopathic Clinic | Toronto Naturopathic Doctors

Pain.

It’s something most of us experience from time to time.

However while much pain is acute, or short-term - a stubbed toe, burning your hand on the stove, or a bee sting, some people live with ongoing chronic pain which can affect their quality of life.

Today we will look at some osteopathic manual therapy treatments which can be used to help manage chronic pain.

Keep reading to learn more.

What Is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is usually defined as any pain which lasts more than 12 weeks.

The definition of “chronic” is “persisting for a long time or constantly recurring”.

Although it may start because of an injury or trauma, it continues even after the initial cause has healed.

Acute pain on the other hand, is generally a response to a physical issue such as disease, inflammation or trauma, however it goes away once the initial cause has healed.

You often – but not always – know the cause of your acute pain, but chronic pain may be a mystery.

Causes Of Chronic Pain

There are a number of reasons someone could be experiencing chronic pain.

For some individuals the aging process and changes in the bones and joints can be the cause of chronic pain.

Depending on the location of the pain, there could be any number of causes - for instance chronic back pain may be caused by any one of the following factors, or a combination of:

● Poor posture
● Improper lifting technique
● Congenital conditions
● Pressure on the back and knees due to being overweight
● Wearing high heels
● Injury
● Sleeping on a poor mattress

Another source of chronic pain for could be chronic illness or disease, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia or cancer.

In many cases the source can be difficult to pinpoint, and sometimes involves a combination of a number of potential causes.

Problems with Medical Treatment for Chronic Pain

So, someone has chronic pain.

Can’t their doctor just prescribe something to help with it?

There are certainly medications which can be effective, however these come with their own set of problems.

One of the first treatments many people think of for chronic pain are opioids, however these must be carefully managed in order to attempt to avoid addiction.

Opioid addiction occurs when an individual has a compulsion to continue using opioids even though they are no longer medically required.

Even when used correctly, and as-per prescription, opioids can be extremely addictive which can result in individuals attempting to find them through illicit means when they are no longer being prescribed the drugs.

Another issue with opioids is even though they may treat the pain itself, they don’t help with the source or cause of the pain.

Natural Treatments For Chronic Pain

There are a number of natural treatments which can be used to manage chronic pain.

It should be noted that these treatments are not a “one size fits all” however - the best treatment for any given ailment will depend on the nature and cause of the pain itself.

Let’s take a look at some common natural treatments for chronic pain and how they can be used.

ways to deal with chronic pain naturally | Annex Naturopathic Clinic | Toronto Naturopathic Doctors

1. Acupuncture

Acupuncture can be an effective treatment for some types of chronic pain.

These include pain due to fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, sports injuries, and back injuries.

The exact mechanism by which acupuncture treats pain is unknown, however it could be because it blocks pain signals coming from nerves, or possibly triggers the brain to release pain-numbing chemicals.

2. Osteopathic Manual Manipulation

Osteopathy is a manipulation therapy which deals with the interconnectivity and relationships within the body.

Osteopathic Manual Therapy (OMT) involves your OMT Practitioner assessing the joints and movement of the body, and developing a treatment plan based on what is - and isn’t - moving.

3. Exercise

Regular physical activity can be beneficial for individuals with a variety of chronic conditions.

Physical activity can help to relieve chronic pain, as well as boost energy and mood.

It is always wise to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise program, and they may give you guidance on exercises to avoid, especially if you are new to exercising on a regular basis.

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)

A 2006 study in the journal of Surgical Neurology studied the use of Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) as an anti-inflammatory and as an alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - a class of drugs which includes aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.

In a study of patients with non-surgical neck or back pain, 59% discontinued use of their prescription NSAID medications for pain, 60% stated their pain improved and 88% said they would continue to use fish oil.

Use of Omega-3s for pain means avoiding some of the side effects of NSAIDs such as risk of gastrointestinal problems, kidney disease, and adverse cardiovascular effects.

5. Capsaicin

A 2017 study in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews looked at the use of topical capsaicin in high concentrations for chronic neuropathic pain in adults.

It showed study participants who used high-concentration topical capsaicin reported moderate or substantial levels of pain relief compared to those who used a placebo.

Along with improved pain relief, subject also experienced better sleep, less depression and overall better quality of life.

6. Turmeric

Turmeric is getting a reputation as a powerful supplement these days.

This root, which is a part of the ginger family can be used to help reduce inflammation.

Use it to add spice and flavour to your meals, drink it as a tea, or if you aren’t a fan of the flavour it can be taken in capsule form.

7. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for a number of functions in the body, including bone strength, cell growth, and immune function.

It also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to fibromyalgia, a condition which can cause chronic pain for those who suffer from in.

If your pain is linked to fibromyalgia, consider low vitamin D may be a factor, and supplements can act as an effective treatment.

Contact Annex Naturopathic

Do you suffer from chronic pain?

Are you worried about the side effects of over-the-counter pain relievers, or the potential addictive properties of opioids?

Perhaps you’ve tried everything else little or no relief and are ready to go a different route.

Annex Naturopathic can help.

Contact us today to set up your consultation and we’ll work together to put together a treatment plan, to help you live pain-free again.

If you’re curious to learn more about this subject or would like to consult with one of our NDs feel free to book a visit or contact us.

Yours in Health,

Annex Naturopathic Clinic
572 Bloor St W #201, Toronto, ON M6G 1K1

-https://goo.gl/maps/uVRBvcyoUa62

Annex Naturopathic Clinic is a clinic in Toronto that offers integrative healthcare solutions from Drs. Marnie Luck, ND, and Tanya Lee, ND


Find additional info about health, wellness, naturopathy, and medicine at: Annex Naturopathic Clinic



Thursday, July 18, 2019

Natural Solutions For Estrogen Dominance, Part 2

Natural Solutions For Estrogen Dominance, Part 2 | Annex Naturopathic Clinic | Toronto Naturopathic Doctors

There are a number of things which can cause hormonal imbalances in people.

In our last article in this two-part series on estrogen dominance we looked at some of the causes of this particular condition.

In this follow-up we will look at some ways this particular imbalance can be controlled naturally.

In case you missed the first part, click here to get caught up.

Recap: What Is Estrogen Dominance?

Estrogen dominance occurs when there is an imbalance of the hormones estrogen and progesterone in the body.

In particular, it’s when there is more estrogen than progesterone.

Diagnosing Estrogen Dominance

If you suspect your symptoms are due to estrogen dominance, keep track of which symptoms you are experiencing, and when they happen in relation to your menstrual cycle.

Once you’ve done this, book an appointment here at Annex Naturopathic to discuss your symptoms. From there, we can order tests to check your hormone levels.

Depending on your symptoms, we may use urine or blood tests to measure your levels of FSH, LH, E2, P, and TSH.

From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we may check for liver qi stagnation, since these symptoms closely mimic those of estrogen dominance.

How Does Estrogen Dominance Affect Pregnancy?

Having trouble conceiving?

Estrogen dominance may be to blame, as it can be linked to fertility issues.

When an egg is released, the empty follicle then starts to produce progesterone.

If ovulation does not occur and no egg is released, progesterone is not produced and estrogen dominance occurs.

Keeping estrogen and progesterone levels in balance is an essential part of becoming and staying pregnant.

solutions for estrogen dominance | Toronto Naturopathic Doctors

Natural Solutions For Estrogen Dominance

If you feel that you have estrogen dominance, it’s important to consult with your naturopathic doctor or other primary health care provider before beginning any treatment.

If you want to avoid taking artificial hormones, there are a number of natural treatment options which may help.

Let’s have a closer look at some of these.

Maintain A Healthy Weight

Shedding excess pounds can help with estrogen dominance, as estrogen can be stored in fat cells.

Not only that, but because estrogen is produced in fat cells, maintaining a healthy body weight will not only slow estrogen production, but take away one of the places where it can be stored.

Aim for a body fat percentage of 28% or lower.

Controlling estrogen dominance isn’t the only reason to aim to maintain a healthy weight - it can also reduce your risk for many other conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.

Decrease Your Stress Level

When you are under stress, your body creates cortisol instead of progesterone.

Keep stress levels at bay, and you will also have more progesterone in your system to keep estrogen levels at bay.

Of course, reducing stress also has many other benefits, such as increased productivity, improved sleep, and better interpersonal relationships.

Include More Fibre In Your Diet

Excess estrogen is eliminated by the body through bowel movements.

If a stool takes too long to make its way through your intestines, estrogen can actually get reabsorbed into the body.

Prevent this by eating a diet high in insoluble fibre to help keep things moving.

Avoid Caffeine

Regular caffeine intake has been linked to estrogen dominance.

Studies have indicated women who drink 500 milligrams (about 5 cups) or more of caffeine daily have 70% more estrogen than those who have less than 100 milligrams.

So if giving up coffee entirely sounds scary (to yourself, or your coworkers) you may not have to give it up completely, but stick to 1 cup (and skip the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, and so on).

Eat A Healthy Diet

A diet rich in organic fruits and vegetables, adequate protein (avoid soy and meat grown with hormones) and dark leafy green vegetables is important for metabolism of estrogen.

Organic fruits and vegetables are important because the pesticides used on some crops can result in higher levels of estrogen in the body.

Contact Annex Naturopathic

Are you concerned your hormone levels are off-kilter?

At Annex Naturopathic we offer bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to help manage estrogen dominance and other hormone-related conditions.

Contact us today to set up a consultation.

 

If you’re curious to learn more about this subject or would like to consult with one of our NDs feel free to book a visit or contact us.

Yours in Health,

Annex Naturopathic Clinic

572 Bloor St W #201, Toronto, ON M6G 1K1
-https://goo.gl/maps/uVRBvcyoUa62

Annex Naturopathic Clinic is a clinic in Toronto that offers integrative healthcare solutions from Drs. Marnie Luck, ND, and Tanya Lee, ND


Learn additional tips about health, wellness, naturopathy, and medicine at: naturopathic doctor in Toronto



Sunday, December 30, 2018

Maple Ginger Hot Toddy

To read additional ideas about health, wellness, and alternative medicine, please visit us here: goo.gl/PS0OJk - 

Here's one last recipe to close out 2019! I hope you all have some fun and festive New Year's plans coming up this week. Jack and I will likely stay in on New Year's Eve and drink these hot toddy … Go to the recipe...The post Maple Ginger Hot Toddy appeared first on Love and Lemons.
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Maple Ginger Hot Toddy


Here's one last recipe to close out 2019! I hope you all have some fun and festive New Year's plans coming up this week. Jack and I will likely stay in on New Year's Eve and drink these hot toddy … Go to the recipe...

The post Maple Ginger Hot Toddy appeared first on Love and Lemons.