Naturopath Oakville

Summer Tick Tips

Summer Tick Tips

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Ticks are becoming increasingly more prevalent especially in our local parks. Please CLICK HERE to see a map of Ontario Lyme disease Risk Areas. Certain ticks can transmit Lyme disease. Below are our tick tips to keep you and your family safe this summer.

  1. Ticks love bushy areas and tall grass. The best way to prevent Lyme disease is to avoid tick bites. If you are spending time in woody or bushy areas make sure to wear long pants and sleeves and inspect your body and your family for any sign of a tick or tick bite after coming indoors.
  2. Wear insect repellent if you are going to be spending time outdoors at parks or wooded areas.
  3. If you or a family member gets a tick bite it is important to act right away and remove the tick. Tweezers are a great option for removal. It is important to get the entire tick out. Make sure to wash the site where the tick was with rubbing alcohol.
  4. Keep the tick once it has been removed in a sealed bag or container so that it can be assessed for Lyme disease.
  5. Please contact your health care provider to discuss next steps.
  6. Naturopathic Doctors can help support your immune system to implement protocols to prevent complications that can arise from a tick bite.
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How Do I Balance My Hormones To Promote Weight Loss?

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Written By: Dr. Dominique Vanier, ND, MEnvSc, BScH

Naturopath in Oakville at Abaton Integrative Medicine

Weight loss advice is everywhere. The Internet, social media, friends, celebrities, weight loss experts – you name it.

There is a lot more to weight loss and weight management than calories, food choices, and regular exercise. While these healthy lifestyle choices set the foundation for success, many people experience weight gain despite clean eating and weekly physical activity.

As a naturopathic doctor, I carefully analyze all contributing factors that may be associated with a patient’s weight gain. In many cases, lack of sleep, excess stress, and hormonal imbalances can tip the scale to favour excess weight.

Hormonal balance plays a major role in promoting weight loss. Hormones like cortisol, insulin, melatonin, estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) are all interconnected.

For example, just as sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone can impact the thyroid, a thyroid imbalance can cause a disturbance to ovarian hormones. High levels of estrogen can result in an increase in thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). When TSH is elevated, the thyroid gland may not be working effectively which can slow the body’s “thermostat” and cause weight gain.

As stress plays a pivotal role in virtually all health conditions, it can also lead to a hormonal imbalance. Chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels. Cortisol – our body’s chief stress hormone – is actually a protective hormone. It is meant to raise blood sugar to give us enough energy and “fight or flight” from oncoming danger.

If we are sensing “danger” all the time, such as in the form of excessive work demands or marital difficulties, chronically elevated cortisol can lead to high blood sugar levels, elevated insulin, weight gain, and potentially diabetes. Elevated insulin puts women at risk for developing polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) – the primary cause of missed periods and infertility.

Balancing hormones is a major focus of my treatment plans for patients who are seeking help for weight loss. Below are seven hormone-balancing tips that I discuss daily in my clinical practice.

1. Testing. Did you know naturopathic doctors are able to order blood tests? Testing is an integral part in uncovering a hormonal imbalance. I routinely run a full thyroid panel and look at both thyroid hormones and thyroid antibodies. I also regularly order fasting insulin and fasting glucose together, as I have seen countless examples of patients with normal HbA1c and fasting glucose levels, but elevated insulin levels. Lastly, the Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones (DUTCH) is an excellent test that looks at hormone metabolites of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol levels, and many others.

2. Magnesium. Magnesium is an amazing mineral that has been studied to lower blood sugar levels, decrease stress, and promote better sleep. Calming the nervous system and promoting a more balanced stress response may be able to help with one’s weight loss goals.

3. Nutritional intravenous (IV) therapy. Intravenous (IV) therapy is an effective way to help correct underlying nutritional deficiencies and promote detoxification. As an IV-certified naturopathic doctor, I administer IV therapy to help reduce stress and to provide nutrient building blocks (like B vitamins) to support hormonal balance.

4. Berberine. Berberine is a chemical found in several plants that has been clinically studied to reduce fasting insulin levels and inhibit fat stores. I commonly recommend berberine in combination with chromium and resveratrol for my patients who are experiencing weight gain due to insulin resistance.

5. Vitex. Vitex, also known as Chaste Tree, is a botanical herb that has been studied to balance progesterone and estrogen levels. While it does not contain any hormones itself, it is able to act on the pituitary gland in the brain, and can be particularly helpful for women who have excess estrogen levels.

6. Zinc and selenium. Both zinc and selenium are trace elements required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. As many agricultural soils are increasingly deficient in certain microminerals, providing these nutrients in therapeutic doses in supplement form may help balance thyroid hormones.

7. Probiotics. Did you know there is a connection between a healthy gut and healthy hormone levels? Our friendly gut bacteria are able to regulate estrogen by releasing an enzyme called beta-glucuronidase. Impaired digestion can lead to a decrease in this enzyme and lower circulating estrogen levels, which may contribute to the development of obesity. Probiotic foods like sauerkraut are a great way to promote a healthy gut microbiome!

Working with your naturopathic doctor can ensure you receive the right testing and treatment plan, which can help you achieve your hormone and weight loss goals.

Dr. Dominique Vanier is a naturopath in Oakville and is accepting new patients at Abaton Integrative Medicine. Find out more about her Healthy Weight Loss Program here!

How do I balance my hormones to promote weight loss?

How do I balance my hormones to promote weight loss?

,

Written By: Dr. Dominique Vanier, ND, MEnvSc, BScH
Naturopath in Oakville at Abaton Integrative Medicine

Weight loss advice is everywhere. The Internet, social media, friends, celebrities, weight loss experts – you name it.

There is a lot more to weight loss and weight management than calories, food choices, and regular exercise. While these healthy lifestyle choices set the foundation for success, many people experience weight gain despite clean eating and weekly physical activity.

As a naturopathic doctor, I carefully analyze all contributing factors that may be associated with a patient’s weight gain. In many cases, lack of sleep, excess stress, and hormonal imbalances can tip the scale to favour excess weight.

Hormonal balance plays a major role in promoting weight loss. Hormones like cortisol, insulin, melatonin, estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) are all interconnected.

For example, just as sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone can impact the thyroid, a thyroid imbalance can cause a disturbance to ovarian hormones. High levels of estrogen can result in an increase in thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). When TSH is elevated, the thyroid gland may not be working effectively which can slow the body’s “thermostat” and cause weight gain.

As stress plays a pivotal role in virtually all health conditions, it can also lead to a hormonal imbalance. Chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels. Cortisol – our body’s chief stress hormone – is actually a protective hormone. It is meant to raise blood sugar to give us enough energy and “fight or flight” from oncoming danger.

If we are sensing “danger” all the time, such as in the form of excessive work demands or marital difficulties, chronically elevated cortisol can lead to high blood sugar levels, elevated insulin, weight gain, and potentially diabetes. Elevated insulin puts women at risk for developing polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) – the primary cause of missed periods and infertility.

Balancing hormones is a major focus of my treatment plans for patients who are seeking help for weight loss. Below are seven hormone-balancing tips that I discuss daily in my clinical practice.

1. Testing. Did you know naturopathic doctors are able to order blood tests? Testing is an integral part in uncovering a hormonal imbalance. I routinely run a full thyroid panel and look at both thyroid hormones and thyroid antibodies. I also regularly order fasting insulin and fasting glucose together, as I have seen countless examples of patients with normal HbA1c and fasting glucose levels, but elevated insulin levels. Lastly, the Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones (DUTCH) is an excellent test that looks at hormone metabolites of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol levels, and many others.

2. Magnesium. Magnesium is an amazing mineral that has been studied to lower blood sugar levels, decrease stress, and promote better sleep. Calming the nervous system and promoting a more balanced stress response may be able to help with one’s weight loss goals.

3. Nutritional intravenous (IV) therapy. Intravenous (IV) therapy is an effective way to help correct underlying nutritional deficiencies and promote detoxification. As an IV-certified naturopathic doctor, I administer IV therapy to help reduce stress and to provide nutrient building blocks (like B vitamins) to support hormonal balance.

4. Berberine. Berberine is a chemical found in several plants that has been clinically studied to reduce fasting insulin levels and inhibit fat stores. I commonly recommend berberine in combination with chromium and resveratrol for my patients who are experiencing weight gain due to insulin resistance.

5. Vitex. Vitex, also known as Chaste Tree, is a botanical herb that has been studied to balance progesterone and estrogen levels. While it does not contain any hormones itself, it is able to act on the pituitary gland in the brain, and can be particularly helpful for women who have excess estrogen levels.

6. Zinc and selenium. Both zinc and selenium are trace elements required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. As many agricultural soils are increasingly deficient in certain microminerals, providing these nutrients in therapeutic doses in supplement form may help balance thyroid hormones.

7. Probiotics. Did you know there is a connection between a healthy gut and healthy hormone levels? Our friendly gut bacteria are able to regulate estrogen by releasing an enzyme called beta-glucuronidase. Impaired digestion can lead to a decrease in this enzyme and lower circulating estrogen levels, which may contribute to the development of obesity. Probiotic foods like sauerkraut are a great way to promote a healthy gut microbiome!

Working with your naturopathic doctor can ensure you receive the right testing and treatment plan, which can help you achieve your hormone and weight loss goals.

Dr. Dominique Vanier is a naturopath in Oakville and is accepting new patients at Abaton Integrative Medicine. Find out more about her Healthy Weight Loss Program here!

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Top 5 Reasons To See A Naturopathic Doctor During Pregnancy

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Finding out you are expecting a baby is one of the most exciting times in your life, but it can also become one of the most overwhelming times. Having a professional to guide you through this next chapter in your life is invaluable. From the moment you find out you are pregnant a Naturopathic Doctor (ND) can help answer your questions and get you started on a prenatal plan. As a mother of two and Naturopathic Doctor I have listed the top 5 reasons to include an ND in your prenatal care team.

1. Immediate Care

Most women do no see their Obstetrician or Midwife before approximately 10 weeks of pregnancy. During the first 10 weeks, moms and partners have a lot of questions. Some of these questions are related to food, exercise, sleep, morning sickness, fatigue, etc. Naturopathic Doctors are there for you from week 1 and can answer all of your questions. Not only is it important have these questions to get answered, there are also critical nutrients and factors to consider for healthy baby development in the first trimester (weeks 1-13).

2. Discuss nutrition, healthy weight gain and additional supplement support

Understanding what to eat, what you can eat and what foods, if any, you should be avoiding can be confusing especially if you are experiencing nausea! It is important to ensure you are getting enough carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats as well as ensuring you are getting your micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). With your ND, you will discuss: plate proportions, foods to limit or avoid, foods you should include in your diet and healthy weight gain during each trimester.

When taking supplements and prenatal vitamins, it is important to understand what you are taking. There are 3 things to be mindful of when it comes to your supplements:

  1. The forms of the vitamins/minerals that are in the product, as some forms are easier absorbed and are better tolerated by the body, which will ensure your body is using what you are taking.
  2. The doses of the vitamins/minerals/herbs in the product. Each vitamin/mineral/herb will have a therapeutic dose and some products do not contain enough of each ingredient to provide a therapeutic value.
  3. The product does not contain fillers and chemicals. It is surprising, but some of the products on the market contain added fillers and chemicals that you do not want to be putting into your body, especially when pregnant. This is why it is so important to seek professional advice when choosing supplements.

3. Pregnancy Expectations and Common Pregnancy Related Complaints/Conditions

Pregnancy is a wonderful time, but there are symptoms that may arise especially as the woman nears the end of her third trimester. Even though these symptoms/conditions are common, they can cause quite a bit of stress for mom. But do not worry! There is support. Naturopathic Doctors can help prevent as well as guide you through the treatment options when it comes to conditions of pregnancy. These conditions can include: Heartburn, Urinary Tract Infections, Morning Sickness, Insomnia, Constipation, Headaches, Restless Legs, Gestational Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Group B Strep and Stretch Marks.

4. Birth Preparation

Birth preparation is very important and patients tend to not know that they need to train their muscles for birth much like they would if they were running a marathon. Starting around 36 weeks, Naturopathic Doctors will shift their treatment plan to support the birth. This will include supplement changes, acupuncture and some herbal preparations to help ripen the cervix and strengthen the uterus in preparation for delivery. Research shows that pre-birth acupuncture can shorten the second stage of labour (pushing).

5. Optimal Postpartum Care

The postpartum period, often called the 4th trimester, is a joyous time as well as a busy time. It is so vital that mom’s needs do not get forgotten, as everyone is excited over the new arrival. Postpartum care is very important in helping prevent and support postpartum blues, postpartum depression, milk supply, iron and nutrient levels, stress management and thyroid health. Booking a follow up with your Naturopathic Doctor around 6 weeks postpartum is recommended. As the body can take a full year to recover from pregnancy and birth, Naturopathic Doctors will see you and you baby beyond 6 weeks postpartum and continue care for you, your baby and your family as needed.

Welcoming a new member into the family is such a special time. The greatest gift you can give your baby is a healthy start as well as a healthy mom! If you want to learn more about Naturopathic Medicine, please visit the “Services” section of our website. We look forward to meeting you and your growing family.

Congratulations! Naturopathic Medicine can provide you and your family support during this exciting time. Giving your baby the opportunity to lead a healthy lifestyle right from conception is the best gift you can give your child. Below is a description of our Pregnancy Program.

1st Trimester:

  • Treatment plan to support appropriate diet and supplement regime
  • Management of symptoms of pregnancy such as morning sickness, constipation, headaches, etc.
  • Informative consults during the early weeks of pregnancy before you are able to see your midwife or Obstetrician
  • Discuss appropriate caloric intake and healthy weight gain
  • Recommend books and mommy must haves
  • Stretchmark prevention
  • Discuss the importance of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy, Osteopathy and Chiropractic care during pregnancy

2nd Trimester

  • Urinary tract infection prevention and treatment
  • Natural support for GERD/heartburn
  • Identification, treatment and prevention of typical nutritional deficiencies
  • Uterine support in preparation for labour

3rd Trimester

  • Birth plan development and finalization
  • Preparation for labour
  • Herbal prescriptions and perineal healing protocol
  • Acupuncture and acupressure treatments
  • GBS+ prevention and treatment
  • Breech presentation management
  • List of items you will need for a home or hospital birth
  • Labour induction

4th Trimester/Postpartum Care

  • Lactation Support
  • Identification, treatment and prevention of typical nutritional deficiencies
  • Prevention and treatment of postpartum blues and depression
  • Adrenal support
  • Newborn assessment and well-child check
  • IV Therapy
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