Community News
Diabetes & Alzheimer’s Disease 

Research shows a link between Type 2 Diabetes and an increased risk for Alzheimer’s Disease. High levels of insulin, insulin resistance and high blood sugar are hallmark features in people with Type 2 Diabetes. These features are associated with low grade inflammation in the body and brain. New research links inflammation with protein abnormalities in the brain called beta amyloid plaques and tau-protein tangles. Current hypothesis is that the presence of these 2 neurotoxic proteins is associated with a loss of nerve functioning that presents itself as Alzheimer’s disease. Studies suggest that controlling or preventing type 2 Diabetes can reduce the risk or severity of Alzheimer’s Disease later in life. Struggling with Diabetes or know someone who is? A few sessions with a Diabetes Educator can help lower blood sugar levels and lower risks of toxic effects on the body and brain long-term. You can manage diabetes instead of diabetes managing you!

Mathilda Prinsloo, www.seniorcarepharmacypractice.com

8 Ways to Radiant Skin

1) From the holistic perspective, feeding yourself quality ingredients is the way to look and feel your best.
2) Talk nice to yourself. You are already a beautiful creature! When you know this from the heart, it shows on your skin. That kind of confidence cannot be bought.
3) Get to know yourself spiritually, you are part of limitless potential and you can do whatever your heart desires.
4) Believe in who you are.
5) Feed yourself with good books, music and loved ones.
6) Go into nature and take deep breaths. Sit and breathe, walk your dog and breath, ski and breath, do something to calm the mind and get oxygen into the body.
7) Take time for you.
8) Eat healthy, get exercise, and do not over do anything.

Lori Cohen, Optima Organics, www.immortellerevolution.ca

Concussion Awareness 

Will Smith’s new movie “Concussion” has recently created a buzz. The topic of concussions has become more popular in today’s sporting world. Head and neck injuries may not always appear serious, but it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of concussions in order to decrease the risk of the long-term affects they can have. Subjective complaints don’t automatically rule in the presence of a concussion, but they should be monitored in case they worsen. Common ones are headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, balance problems, sensitivity to light or noise, change in emotions, blurred vision, neck pain, and even loss of consciousness. Problems don’t always show instantly, but can arise during the first 48 hours post- injury. Those affected should not drive, drink alcohol, or take any medication for pain. Being aware of the signs and knowing when to seek medical attention is key in providing care for those who sustained a head or neck injury.

Heath Vermette, www.southsherbrooktherapy.com

Acupuncture for Mental Health

Anxiety and depression remain two of the most common mental illnesses worldwide. As research continues, acupuncture and other forms of complementary therapies are gradually being proven to be legitimate treatments for anxiety and depression. Acupuncture, a traditional form of Chinese medicine, works by stimulating points in the body to correct imbalances in energy flows (Qi). This form of medicine is based on the interaction of the five elements (wood, fire, earth, water and metal). Depression and anxiety are considered to be problems with the Qi circulation through your body.  In general, acupuncture is believed to stimulate the nervous system and cause the release of neurochemical messenger molecules. The resulting biochemical changes influence the body’s homeostatic mechanisms, thus promoting physical and emotional wellbeing.

Ling Zhao, Ph. D of Traditional Chinese Medicine, R.TCM.P, R.Ac, RMT, www.winnipegacupuncture.com

Winter Athletics 

So here we are: the middle of the winter season. I see more people running in winter than ever before, with the advancement of clothing and shoes. It’s easy, right? You should almost count miles as double in the winter with the extra wear n tear. Use traction devices and splurge on socks, so important! Ever want to try those lightweight snowshoes? How about Cross-Country skiing? It’s a great time to learn a new sport! However, proper hydration and nutrition remain key; these winter temperatures and conditions put your body and stamina to the test. Learn the warning signs for hypothermia, and take advantage of that long, ‘cool-down’ period afterwards. Know your biomechanics; even shorten your stride to keep your feet under your center of gravity, to improve balance and traction. Play safe!

Chris Bisignano, www.yourphysio.com

Chocolate Hemp Snackers 

Need a quick pick-me-up that’s loaded with protein, fibre, and is a little bit sweet?  Try a Chocolate Hemp Snacker.  Hemp Snackers are the innovative crunchy macaroon-like energy bar listing organic hemp seed as the #1 ingredient.  Full of protein, fibre, Omega 3’s and 6’s, inulin, antioxidants, and magnesium, they’re a snack you can feel good about eating.  Because they’re dehydrated at low temperatures rather than baked, they’re crunchy and easy for your body to digest. We chose organic Canadian maple sugar to sweeten them with, both for the unique flavour as well as the nutritional benefits. Only 150 Calories per one bar.

Natalie Dueck, www.rawnata.com

Pet Food for Thought

Choosing the right food for your pet is important. With so many choices, it’s hard to know which way to go! Here are a few fundamental facts about which choice to make: For ALL cats, food should be grain free. Cats lack the digestive enzyme that metabolizes grains which is why feline obesity, diabetes and kidney failure are so common. Both cats and dogs require wet food in their diet. Kibble is highly processed and does not come close to providing the necessary moisture an animal needs to live healthfully. Wet food allows animals to retain vital moisture. Without this moisture, animals are prone to dehydration, urinary infections and eventually kidney failure. It is also extremely important to do your research! These days, many food companies disguise carcinogens well. Make sure to read labels carefully and know exactly what you’re feeding them! Your animals deserve the best quality of life; they’re your family!

Jill Saifer, www.soulsticespirithealing.wordpress.com

Shovel the Right Way

Next time you are faced with the daunting task of shoveling snow, consider this: The task sends on average more than 11,000 adults and children to the hospital every year. Safe snow shoveling requires proper preparation, the right tools, good technique and knowledge. Here are some handy tips to help keep your body pain free while shoveling snow this winter. Firstly, having the right shovel is important. Your shovel should weigh no more than 3 lbs., preferably with a plastic blade and a long curved handle. Secondly, technique is important. To protect your back, always push the snow and avoid lifting. Hold the shovel close to your body with your hands spread out on the handle to create leverage. Bend from your knees not your back and keep your feet hip width apart. Lastly, when having to lift the snow make sure you tighten your stomach muscles and avoid twisting by always having your feet pointing the same way you’re lifting the snow.

Kristy Maksymyk, BMR-PT, www.prairietrailphysio.ca

Cardioflex Q10 

A supportive nutritional supplement for doctor recommended diet and exercise plans that is designed for cardiovascular health. Cardioflex Q1O is a unique blend of vitamins and amino proteins taken daily as supportive natural therapy to enrich cardiovascular health, establish cholesterol balance, and reduce CRP (C-reactive protein). Strengthen the cardiovascular system. Dissolve atherosclerotic plaque. Relieve the pain of angina pectoris (chest pain). Reduce the likelihood of blood clotting, heart attack or stroke. Increase heart and other muscle strength and stamina. Reduce blood and tissue lipids (fats) and cholesterol. Reduce C-reactive protein (CRP indicates artery inflammation) as well as homocysteine levels. Increase antioxidant intake and activity to slow aging. Help natural immunity against viral, fungal, and bacterial diseases, including antibiotic-resistant strains. Reduce hypertension and improve overall circulation. Manitoba Made, Innotech Nutrition product.

A1 Nutrition, www.a1nutrition.net

Cardio Screens Lifeline to Health 

February is Heart and Stroke Awareness Month. Remarkable progress has been made tackling cardiovascular disease in Canada over the past 60 years with death rates declining by more than 75 per cent. This has largely been due to research advances in surgical procedures, drug therapies and prevention efforts. Yet despite our progress, heart disease and stroke remain the leading causes of death here in Canada. An estimated 1.6 million Canadians are living with heart disease or the effects of a stroke. In 2011, more than 66,000 Canadians died from heart disease or stroke. That’s one person every 7 minutes. In that year, almost 14,000 Canadians died as the result of a heart attack. By adopting a healthier lifestyle, you can delay the onset of heart disease or stroke by as much as 14 years! Cardiovascular screening is a reliable way to know your possible risk factors for a heart attack or stroke. Get your screening done today!

Rick Drury, www.scoopandsave.com

What is Your Mouth Telling You?

The state of your mouth can offer valuable insights into your dental, oral and overall health.  Any bleeding when you brush your gums is a sign that you should see your dentist.  Unhealthy gums can affect your overall health.  Atherosclerosis, clogging of the arteries, has a strong link to gum disease.  Pain on biting might mean a cracked tooth.  Sugar sensitivity usually indicates a cavity.  Tenderness to cold might just need a change of toothpaste.  Tenderness to hot is likely to be more serious.  The pulp of your tooth can become inflamed for many reasons.  The only way to find out, for sure, what’s going on is to see your dentist.  Bad breath can be caused by poor oral hygiene.  A good electric toothbrush, flossing and scraping your tongue all help.  Throat infections also cause bad breath.  Don’t assume that problems will resolve by themselves.  See a dentist at least once a year. Remember: “You don’t have to floss all your teeth, just the ones you want to keep!” Dr.

George Cadigan, www.exclusvielydentures.ca