Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. According to a University of Laval research study, sleep disorders affect approximately 40% of Canadian adults. Most adults need at least 8 hours of sleep per day. Insomnia is commonly associated with day-tim…

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in North America for both men and women, and according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, it is estimated that cardiovascular disease accounts for 29% of deaths in Canada. Although heart disease is most common in middle aged women and men, it is important to know the signs a…

The winter months can be tough to get through, especially if you reside in the northern latitudes where the weather is cold, the days are short and stress is often at its peak. If your energy takes a dip during this time of year, it may help you to seek out some natural support. Vitamins and herbs can provide a natural…

Your skin is a reflection of your internal environment. It’s also a reflection of your external environment. It’s a good idea to change your skin care regimen as the seasons change. Sunburn and Dermatitis are two conditions that can occur in the winter months. Although it’s cold, the snow reflects the sun’s rays which…

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but for some, it can be a very stressful time. Preparing for Christmas parties, over-eating at those same holiday parties and of course, that dreaded holiday shopping can leave your immune system open for attack. Here are 7 ways to boost your immune system for this holiday seas…

Emotional eating is the act of using food in hopes to bring about a change in your feelings. Whether it is to help calm your nerves before an anxious event or to soothe anger or hurt after an upsetting event, emotional eating can lead to over eating and weight gain. Over eating also increases your risk for chronic dise…

Your eyes are tiny windows into your health. As a naturopathic doctor, I learn a lot about a person’s nutritional status and overall health during an eye exam. When your eyes do not produce enough lubrication, the result can be dry, red and irritated eyes, also known as dry eye syndrome. The tears produced by the lacri…

Hair is derived from your hair follicles. Therefore the health of your hair depends on the health of your scalp. To maintain your healthy tresses, it is important to nourish your hair from the outside in and the inside out. Hormone imbalances, some medications, extreme weather changes, hair products and your nutritiona…

It’s inevitable that as you get older, your brain’s function will begin to change. Some age related cognitive decline is normal, however in some older adults this cognitive decline may lead to a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or Parkinson’s disease. Research has shown that you can maintain healthy brain fun…

Food intolerances occur when your body has a reaction, often delayed, to a food or a food additive. In my naturopathic practice many of my patients have food intolerances and do not realize it because the symptoms can be vague and can often come on hours or days after eating the food. This characteristic also makes foo…