Gut permeability, or “leaky gut” (as it is sometimes called), occurs when tight junctions in the gut lining become loose. When tight junctions are working properly, they form a tight barrier to keep unwanted things like undigested food, toxins, and bacteria from getting to the bloodstream. Without proper function of this barrier, these unwanted “visitors” can cause problems in the digestive tract and even other areas of the body, including inflammation-related issues. Eating a healthier diet of nutritious, unprocessed foods and avoiding alcohol, processed foods, and foods high in sugar and saturated fat can ease inflammation and calm the gut.
What’s the Gender Tax?
Have you ever stood in front of a store display of razors and wondered why the ones for women cost more than the ones for men? This is just one example of the “gender tax”, which refers to the fact that women seem to have to pay more for certain items and services than men do. Women also tend to live longer than men, meaning their money must stretch farther. This is why it’s so important for women to make sound financial decisions. A knowledgeable investment advisor can assist with planning, executing, and tracking any major financial decisions you make.
What is Bike Fitting?
Bike fitting is the art and science of harmonizing a rider with their bike to improve comfort, reduce pain, and improve efficiency and performance. The process involves a thorough analysis of the side view, where adjustments can be made to the seat, handlebars, and stem, as well as a front view assessment, where the focus is on foot position on the pedal and lower limb alignment. When a bike fit is performed by a physiotherapist there is also the added benefit of the integration of injury assessment and a treatment plan. Bike fitting can be appropriate for the commuter to the elite cyclist.
Meet Your Practitioner
Dr. Shelin Tkatch earned her MD at the University of British Columbia and went on to complete her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Alberta. She opened her White Rock/South Surrey practice in 2000 and serves as the Medical Director for Grandview Gynecology and MD Wellness Solutions. In 2013, she earned a Diploma in Dermatology from Cardiff University, Wales. This unique blend of education and experience allows her to deliver excellence in office-based cosmetic dermatology and women’s health procedures. Dr. Tkatch is backed by a team of professionals, including Dr. Ruth Abrahams, Sharon Vandecasteyen, RN, Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist, and certified medical aestheticians. Great skin – let us show you how.
Talking about Gambling
Talking about any difficult issue, such as a problem with gambling can be difficult. Here are a few strategies that can be helpful: Try not to judge them or use judgmental language; this will only make the person defensive. Problem gamblers feel vulnerable already. Offer support, caring, and information about the help that is available. Tell the person specifically how their actions are affecting you and your family. Let them know you will support them in their efforts to regain control. If your finances are linked, you may need to take immediate action to protect yourself and your family. Karen Hlady, Prevention Service Provider,
Relieve Emotional Stress with Yoga
A fundamental principle of yoga is that your body and mind are one and connected. Stress in one domain will affect the other and vice versa. Yoga can help you cope with stress and improve overall health and satisfaction with life. While all exercise is good for stress, yoga is different because it powerfully combines both physical fitness with an underlying philosophy of self-compassion and awareness. We actually release emotional energy effectively throughout our yoga practice, even if you’re not aware of it!
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis can happen to anyone, from an active runner or athlete to a worker who is on their feet all day. Your foot is made up of numerous complex tissues, muscles, and bones that can become damaged quite easily if the foot is not properly cared for. The foot has a thick, fibrous band of tissue called the fascia that reaches from the heel to the toes and provides support to the muscles and arch of the foot. When this tissue becomes overly stretched, tiny tears can occur on the surface, resulting in pain and inflammation. Persistent pain caused by plantar fasciitis can undermine your fitness and general health and drag on for years – but there are treatments available! Contact your trusted foot health expert for more info.
Prolozone for Chronic Pain
Why is it that some injuries never heal, and go on to become areas of chronic pain and dysfunction? These localized areas fail to heal because of a localized decrease in oxygen utilization. And why do people heal so much more reliably when they are young than when they become older? The answer in both cases has to do with decreased oxygen utilization which serves as a foundation for chronic pain and degeneration. Break that cycle by the application of ozone therapy or Prolozone injections which maximizes oxygen absorption, and the cells and tissues can begin to do what they usually do so well – heal themselves.
Ask The Expert
Q: My friend said she got a sunburn on her eyes. Is this really possible?
A: Yes indeed, and she probably meant she suffered some acute discomfort. You probably know that prolonged sun exposure puts you at risk for eye problems like cataracts, but ultra-violet rays from the sun can also irritate the cornea and conjunctiva, resulting in pain, blurry vision, grittiness, light sensitivity and watering, much like a welding flash or snow blindness. Like a sunburn, the discomfort occurs a few hours after the burn itself. One more reason to protect your eyes against the sun!
Staying Active this Summer with Acupuncture
Summer is the season of yang. It is a time of joy, heat, and abundant energy. However, the abundance of the yang energy can unfortunately bring on injuries. Sprains and strains are common at this time of year. Treating the injury with acupuncture can help to reduce inflammation, increase blood circulation, decrease pain and prevent the development of chronic pain. Overheating during the summer months can also be a problem, so it is suggested to eat smaller meals and cooling yin foods. Whether it’s running, biking, kayaking or just being active in your community acupuncture will help you to feel better and perform better.
Helping a Parent from Another City
When daily life is hectic, it can be difficult to keep in touch with our loved ones. It’s even more challenging if they don’t live in the same city that we do. If an aging parent is having trouble managing at home, it’s important to take action before more problems arise. Start by determining what Mom or Dad needs, perhaps with the help of other family members and your loved one’s physician. Explore the options for senior care in your loved one’s community. Home care services, such as personal care, housekeeping and companionship, can help older adults keep living independently for as long as possible.


