Acupuncture treatments have been used for thousands of years as a healing remedy and have been scientifically proven to relieve acute and chronic pain.  Very thin needles are inserted into the skin around the painful area at various acupuncture points.  These acupuncture points are the gateway to your nervous system and the source of your pain.

Acupuncture treatment:

• Works by stimulating the central nervous system to release endorphins (your body’s natural pain reliever) into your blood stream.  The nerve pathways that carry pain messages from your brain to your body are blocked, thereby eliminating the pain you feel.
• It is painless, relaxing and the benefits start to work immediately.  You will walk out of the treatment with less pain than when you came in. A reduction of pain means that you will be able to move better, accomplish your daily tasks easier and promote strength and healing.
• Acupuncture treatments are administered by health care professionals who are thoroughly trained in administering acupuncture so you can be assured that you are getting the best treatment possible.

Contact us for an appointment today.

By Melaika Agbeko, Bsc., ND

 
Spring is the perfect time to start a detoxification program, since it is a time of general renewal- out with the old and in with the new.  It must be understood that we are constantly exposed to toxic substances in the food we eat, air we breathe and water we drink, and it is important that our bodies are able to effectively eliminate these substances.

Detoxification is a normal function of all the cells of the human body and is the means by which the body maintains balance or homeostasis.  The main organs of elimination and hence, detoxification (or cleansing) are the skin, kidneys, lungs, and intestines, and it is vital that these organs are functioning properly in order to enhance any cleansing program.

There are many products on the market in the form of kits, geared towards detoxification, but it is always a good idea to start with the basic things needed in order to start such a process. It is not always what we purchase in the form of a supplement, but basic things that can always be incorporated into such as program.

In addition to basic dietary changes such as eliminating caffeine, sugar, preservatives, etc. there are five easy ways to enhance this natural process of detoxification, namely:

1. Dry Skin Brushing. This enables the proper circulation of the lymph and hence removal and elimination of toxins circulating in the blood.  Lymphatic fluid removes toxins from the blood. DSB improves this circulation.

2. Walking in Nature.  This provides a general sense of wellbeing as well as ample amounts of fresh air (depending on where you live).  Mood is improved which makes the overall process a pleasant one, rather than a chore.

3. Deep Breathing.  Ensures the elimination of toxins via the lungs.  This is an often underestimated means of eliminating toxins from the body.  As toxins leave our cells, nutrients and oxygen are delivered to enable proper functioning of the cells, and hence, better detoxification.

4. Drinking more water.  All reactions in the body occur in what is called an aqueous medium (aka water). Water is needed to flush toxins via the bowels and kidneys as well as when we sweat and breathe deeply.  In order to determine the amount of water in ounces, for your body’s needs, divide your weight in pounds by 2. e.g. a 140 lb pound man would require 70 oz of water.  Ensure that the water is of good quality. i.e. filtered, spring, etc.

5. Consuming more vegetables and fruit.  These provide a source of fibre which acts as a broom to sweep through the colon, as well as provide food for the good bacteria in the gut, and hence, improve immunity.  They are also a source of vital nutrients in the form of minerals and vitamins to enable the detoxification pathways in the liver to function efficiently.

Always remember the following before embarking on a detoxification program:

• Do not do such a program during a cold nor flu, nor soon after.  Wait a few weeks to ensure recovery, then consult a qualified health care practitioner to formulate a program suited to your needs.
• Avoid the use of harsh laxatives for extended periods of time, especially if you suffer from chronic constipation.
• If you are currently taking prescription medication, speak to a qualified health care practitioner before doing a detoxification program.

These are basic things that can be implemented into a detoxification program, but consult your Naturopathic Doctor for a program suited to your needs.

Listen to The Experts Hour on AM640 Talk radio  featuring Dr Richard Dodd.

Dr Dodd will be on air to answer your medical questions on  The Path to Natural Health…on January 14, February 11, March 24, April 21, May 26, June 23, July 21, August 18, September 15, October 20 & November 24th from 11:00 am till 12:00 pm.

www.640toronto.com/HostsandShows/ExpertHours/NaturalPath.aspx

A Quantitative Versus A Qualitative Analysis

By Richard Dodd BSc., ND

& Cristina Amorim BSc.N

Conventional medical blood tests involve isolating various blood components in order to give us numerical indications of what is going on in the body.  For example, conventional blood tests can measure the level of stored iron in the blood and they can also provide us with an abnormally high or low white blood cell count.

These quantitative measures are the mainstay of conventional medical blood tests.  This method of blood analysis however disrupts our bloods original state and does not allow us to observe our living blood cells in their natural and dynamic environment.

What about a qualitative analysis with Darkfield Microscopy?

Darkfield microscopy often referred to as Live blood cell analysis is performed by placing a drop of blood under a Darkfield microscope which is then observed through a camera on a TV screen.  Rather than relying on numbers alone, Darkfield microscopy can give us a qualitative analysis which can provide visual indications of the current health status of each blood cell.  Conventional medical blood tests do not provide us with these visual observations; they only provide us with numbers.  Numbers however may not be enough to motivate people to improve their diet or lifestyle.

What are the benefits?

Darkfield microscopic  investigation of living blood gives early, reliable insights into tendencies towards illness of different kinds.

Degenerative conditions such as heart disease, bowel disease and cancer, in their pre-existing states, can be identified.  Darkfield microscopy can reveal indications

of poor nutrient status such as low levels of iron, B12 & folic acid.  Poorly functioning RBC’s, an acidic terrain & features associated with poor fat and protein absorption and the level of white blood cell activity can also be revealed. Moreover, we can also observe indications of liver stress.

Darkfield Microscopy should not be used as a diagnostic procedure but rather as an educational tool to help monitor any progress made through the implementation of lifestyle changes and naturopathic treatments as well as providing a direction for future treatment plans.  Essentially, it can provide you with the motivation needed to stay on track.

Darkfield and Your Immune system

Darkfield microscopic investigation gives us indication of Leukocytic (or white blood cell) function within the immune system.  We can literally visualize how well white blood cells protect the body from foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses or parasites.

Darkfield and Cancer

Viewing live blood allows us to determine the ability of white blood cells within the immune system to function in the presence of a tumor.  We can also assess the white blood cells tolerability of immune-suppressive and chemotherapy drugs.  As a result Darkfield microscopy therefore also offers benefits for its use in conventional oncology.  In fact there are over 1,000 MDs in the USA who use it to form their diagnosis.

Please inquire about Darkfield microscopy today.

Spring Is In The Air-A Perfect Time For Renewal

Spring is a time of renewal & the perfect time to think about ridding your body of toxins that make you feel sluggish & foggy.  A  perfect time to detox.

Detoxification is the process of eliminating potentially harmful chemicals from your body.  The toxins must be neutralized before they pass from your body. There are numerous sources of toxins that compromise our bodies, they are in the air we breathe, the food & water we eat & drink, organisms and environmental chemicals.  The average North American processes approximately 5 lbs of toxins a year.

The organs that assist in the elimination of toxins are the liver, intestines and colon, the lymphatic system, skin, kidneys and lungs.  The liver is the main organ because of its ability to filter out alcohol, drugs & other toxins from the blood, it also helps metabolize fats, carbs & proteins, it produces bile & helps break down & eliminate hormones.  The liver repairs itself after 9 pm so you should avoid exercising late at night.  Excessive hormones which cause emotional changes & PMS symptoms are due to a liver that is in need of detoxification.

Many of the toxins that invade our bodies are in pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, dyes, heavy metals, food preservatives, prescription drugs, exhaust fumes & alcohol & cigarette smoke.

The following conditions are related to a poor functioning liver; hormonal imbalance, fatigue, high cholesterol, digestive distress, insomnia, allergies, depression, aggressive behavior, arthritis, headaches, skin conditions like eczema  and acne.

Some natural herbal medicines that can be used for detoxing are:  Milk thistle, Globe artichoke, Dandelion, Juniper & Green tea.

During the detoxification process you will need to eliminate foods from your diet. The following foods must not be consumed:  Dairy products, eggs, red meat, wheat & gluten products, soya, alcohol, soft drinks, artificial sweeteners and raw fruits (no orange or orange juice) & raw vegetables (no corn or creamed vegetables) & no peanuts or peanut butter.

Foods that are acceptable during the detox process are:   fish, chicken, turkey, wild game, lamb, all peas, beans & lentils, rice milk, almond milk & coconut milk & oat milk, quinoa, oats, rice, millet, buckwheat, teff & amaranth. You may choose fresh, but not raw, frozen, unsweetened, water packed & canned fruit & vegetables that are cooked & steamed or juiced.  Almonds, cashews, walnuts, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds & pumpkin seeds & oils, as well as, olive, flax & canola oils. Caffeine free herbal teas and mineral water may be consumed.

The Natural Path’s detox program lasts 21 days, which is a combination of the detox diet along with a nutritional/vitamin/mineral supplement . In some instances additional vitamin/mineral  IV  infusions  are combined into the program to speed up results. To assist in flushing the toxins out, at least 2 litres of water must be consumed daily.

During the detox process you may feel irritable, have gas & bloating, headache & nausea & feel light headed.

The first 72 hours are critical where you may feel some of the above side effects so plan on starting this program when you aren’t so busy, and in about 3 weeks time , after all your hard work, you`ll be feeling like you have a spring back in your step.

Protect yourself from Allergies this Season

What happens in your body with Seasonal Allergies?

How do I outgrow my Allergies?

Who gets Allergies?

Almost anyone can develop allergies. However, there are some risk factors that may increase your chances of developing allergies during your life. One of the main risk factors is genetics. If someone in your immediate family suffers from allergy symptoms the chance that you will also develop an allergic reaction, at some point, greatly increases. First born children and children with few siblings are also at a higher risk of developing allergies.

Naturopathic Desensitization of Allergens

As mentioned earlier, allergies are usually a result of the body’s over-reaction (hypersensitivity) to innocuous substances. Naturopathic treatment of allergies hyposensitizes the body so that it doesn’t react as severely. There are a number of effective Homeopathic preparations that can achieve the desired hyposensitized effects. For example there are homeopathic medicines that address inflammation in the mucus membranes that cause congestion and stuffiness: (e.g. Metal album, Petroleum, Thuja occidentalis). There are others that address allergies that affect the skin: (e.g. Cardiospermum, Acidum formicicum, Lachesis mutus). There are other remedies that control histamine release. Histamine is the compound in all our cells that mediates the symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as sneezing, congestion, itchy and tearing eyes. Such remedies include (e.g. Histaminum, Luffa operculata). Many of the above remedies are part of various complexes for allergies, and can be used as a pill, drop or injectable form. Many of these remedies are designed for individualized cases and should be discussed with your Natural Health professional.

What about diet?

A low Allergen diet is often utilized to address Seasonal Allergies. There is a correlation between certain high allergic foods and the aggravation of Seasonal Allergies. The main goal of a Low Allergy diet is twofold: 1) Promote the growth of new mucous membranes and friendly bacteria in the small intestine and, 2) Have a diet as low in allergens as possible. If insufficient beneficial bacteria are present the allergens can make their way from the intestines to the bloodstream. This can trigger an immune response that can render an even more severe allergic reaction. In general the foods to avoid are; dairy products, pork, citrus fruit, processed food, canned food, junk foods, soft drinks, refined sugar, caffeine & fried foods. In particular the categories of foods that can create the most severe aggravations of allergies are termed “Histamine suppliers”. These foods contain the compound Histamine that is released from our cells to mediate an allergic response. Histamine release causes the symptoms of sneezing, stuffiness, tearing /itching eyes. Conventional allergy medications like Reactin are termed Antihistamines designed to block the release of Histamine, and suppress the aforementioned symptoms. The foods that contain the highest levels of Histamine are: canned fish, sardines, anchovies, pork, bacon and rabbit.

How to minimize your Seasonal Allergy symptoms

The best way to minimize your seasonal allergy symptoms is to follow the suggested protocol. Four to five weeks before the onset of Allergy season a series of homeopathic injections are given in conjunction with oral medication. The Low Allergen Diet is also employed along with the following 10 tips to decrease your exposure to allergens and help keep your allergies under control.

1. Stay away from areas that are allergen hot-spots such as basements, crawl spaces and barns.

2. When choosing your vacations spots, pick areas that are going to be relatively free of allergens. The beach is a good choice!

3. Try to stay indoors between the hours of 2:00pm – 4:00pm. This is when the pollen count in the atmosphere is at its highest.

4. Take a shower immediately after coming in from the outdoors. This will help to wash the allergens off of you. Wear a paper mask when outside raking leaves or mowing because these activities stir up pollen, molds and dust into the atmosphere.

5. Hang your laundry to dry inside. Allergens such as pollen and mold are more likely to attach to laundry that has been hung outdoors.

6. Improve the quality of air inside your house by keeping windows closed, cleaning air filters and ducts regularly and using a dehumidifier to minimize mold growth.

7. Try decorating to reduce allergens. For example, use sheets and pillow cases which do not collect allergens (known as hypoallergenic), we recommend our hypoallergenic sheets.

8. Pick flowers with large, bright blooms for your house. They have larger pollen particles that are less likely to cause a reaction.