<![CDATA[Naturopathic Care Toronto & Cambridge - Blog]]>Fri, 20 Mar 2020 09:18:23 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Are you a new mom and feeling tired?  We can help!]]>Tue, 15 Oct 2019 15:20:25 GMThttp://www.pearl-naturopathy.com/blog/are-you-a-new-mom-and-feeling-tired-we-can-help
The first few months after childbirth can be a period of extreme fatigue for new moms.  Many factors contribute to this feeling of exhaustion – from physical nutrient depletion to lack of sleep and mental stress for caring after a newborn. Special consideration needs to be taken to ensure that there is proper support to help your body throughout this time of transition.  Here are a few tips for post natal care to help with energy.
Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common condition that women experience throughout pregnancy.  The body’s iron requirements increase as the fetus is developing in the womb. The increased blood supply that is required for baby’s development puts stress on the mother’s body.  Women often need more iron than what is provided in your average prenatal supplement throughout pregnancy.  This deficiency usually continues post-natal if it was never identified or corrected. Making sure your hemoglobin and ferritin levels are adequate is an important part of investigation whenever there are signs of fatigue. Some high iron containing foods are animal products, soy, lentils, quinoa, black strap molasses and amaranth. 
            Apart from low iron, many women loose a lot of nutrition through their breast milk.  The body priorities the essential nutrients and minerals to be provided to the baby so it’s extremely important that mom makes sure she is eating a well balanced diet together with her prenatal supplements as long as she is breast feeding to replenish her own stores.  One of the most important food groups that is essential in energy and metal alertness is adequate protein intake. Protein intake especially in the morning correlates to better energy throughout the day.  Ensuring 15-25g of protein intake for breakfast really helps with blood sugar regulation, proper neurotransmitter function and hormone production.  Other essential food groups to be conscious of to incorporate with every meal that aids in energy production are healthy fats and fiber. 
Adrenal Health
Our adrenal glands are little glands that sit on top of our kidneys and produce hormones that are important in our stress response, blood pressure regulation and blood sugar regulation.  During stressful periods these glands produce adrenalin hormones and a powerful chronic stress hormone called cortisol to help our bodies adapt and overcome the stress.  Naturally, before and after childbirth there are periods of ongoing stress that the body is constantly dealing with.  Stress can come in many forms- emotional, psychological, physical etc. regardless of the shape it takes, the response of the body always remains the same - it releases the same hormones to help the body adapt.  As a result, these glands can become fatigued.  Once these glands are fatigued one can feel irritable very easily, anxious, exhausted (especially in the morning), hair loss, low mood, and over-reactions to normally small stressors.  In cases of high stress, supporting the body with building blocks that help these glands function optimally can be a huge help. B-vitamins and vitamin C are two examples of an essential nutrients for the production of many of these hormones.  There are also various herbs that are used to help support the stress response and improve energy.  Consulting with a Naturopathic Doctor can help identify which vitamin, mineral or herb would be appropriate for you. A Naturopathic Doctor can further advise which supplement would be safe during lactation or pregnancy as well. 
Fatigue for new moms is a very common and over looked symptom.  Individualized assessment and care will hep ensure that your body is getting optimal support.  Proper diet and nutrition are essential building blocks and the foundation for every function.  Further, correcting deficiencies and supporting the adrenals can significantly improve energy.
Dr. Pearl Arjomand is a Naturopathic Doctor practicing at Anova Wellness Integrative Fertility Clinic.  Her practice focuses Women’s Health with a special interest in fertility.   For questions or bookings please call 416-225-5050. 

<![CDATA[Tips For Soft Glowing Skin Throughout the Harsh Winter Months]]>Mon, 05 Dec 2016 18:05:19 GMThttp://www.pearl-naturopathy.com/blog/tips-for-soft-glowing-skin-throughout-the-harsh-winter-monthsBy Dr. Arjomand, ND

1.  Use the right cleanser.


3.  Choose the best moisturizer for your skin.  

4.  Stay hydrated with lots of water!

5.  Increase healthy oils in your diet.

6.  Exfoliate regularly and moisturize immediately afterwards.

7.  Use a humidifier at home while you sleep. 


9.  Cold weather calls for eating warmer foods.

10.  What to avoid in skin products:

Dry itchy skin can also appear very similarly to other skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or different forms of dermatitis that often aggravate in the winter.  It's important to have your skin checked by a healthcare professional to ensure the treatments you use are suited for your health. Naturopathic Doctors can help with this assessment and advise on more thorough treatment plans based on your presentation and needs. If you try the steps above and you don't get the results you desire, ask for personalized recommendations from your ND.  Dr. Pearl Arjomand, ND is a Naturopathic Doctor at Anova Wellness Integrative Fertility Clinic.  For questions or bookings please call 416-225-5050.
<![CDATA[The Toxic Threat Your Hormones Can't Ignore]]>Fri, 28 Oct 2016 17:46:32 GMThttp://www.pearl-naturopathy.com/blog/the-toxic-threat-your-hormones-cant-ignore By Dr. Pearl Arjomand, ND

       Alarming statistics demonstrate the extent of hormonal imbalance that is prevalent today, unprecedented in previous years.  With 1 in 6 women experiencing fertility issues, 7 out of 10 women experiencing one or multiple fibroids at some point in their life, and 1 out of 9 women being diagnosed with breast cancer, we cannot stand back and pretend like these conditions are of no concern.  Without question, diet, genetic predisposition and lifestyle play key roles in determining our risk for these chronic conditions.  However, a growing body of evidence suggests that numerous chemicals in our environment are also altering our hormones and predisposing us to these conditions.

What are endocrine disruptors?

         According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, "Endocrine disruptors are naturally occurring compounds or man-made substances that may mimic or interfere with the function of hormones in the body.  Endocrine disruptors may turn on, shut off, or modify signals that hormones carry which may affect the normal function of tissues and organs."

        In 2015, The Endocrine Disruption Exchange, an organization that focuses on collecting scientific studies and research about the effects of environmental chemicals on our endocrine system, reported a list of nearly 1000 chemicals that have a negative impact on our hormonal system.  Many of these chemicals are ubiquitous in our environment, and have been termed "Persistent Organic Pollutants", otherwise known as "POPs". These POPs are known to accumulate in our environment because of their inability to degrade naturally.  This accumulation occurs in our soil, within the food chain and in our tissues. POPs also have low water solubility and tend to accumulate and store in fatty tissue which makes it difficult for the body to eliminate them easily. Harmful effects of these substances are linked to chronic low grade exposure over time.  Some of the more significant health effects also occur if the exposure is earlier in life, including in utero.  It is well documented in the literature that these compounds not only affect the functioning of the hormones at the receptor level, but also higher levels of hormone functioning at the brain.

So, what are these substances and what exactly are they doing to the body?  Here is a list of the most studied endocrine disruptors, where they are found and their potential impact on the hormonal system:

Dioxin/Dioxin-like Compounds (eg. PCBs)
Common sources: 
  •  By-products of many manufacturing processes, herbicides and pesticides.
  • Commonly found in meat, including poultry, fish and dairy products - more than 90% of human exposure is thought to be through food.  
  • Vinyl flooring, adhesives, detergents, lubricating oils, automotive plastics, medical tubing
  • Daily-use products: shower curtains, tablecloths, children's toys, rain coats, plastic wrap
  • Personal care products: shampoo, insect repellents, hair spray, nail polish, cosmetics and fragrance
Potential effects on hormones:
  • Fetal and early life exposure can permanently affect sperm count and sperm quality in men during reproductive years.
  • Lowers level of testosterone
  • Shorter menstrual cycles in females
  • Dioxins can increase or decrease estrogen levels depending on amount and timing of exposure
  • Premature sexual development in females, especially early breast development
Pthalates, BPA
Common sources:  
  • Used in plastics - frequently in the food industry for packaging and liners of canned foods
  • Used in thermal paper of receipts and carbonless copy paper
Potential effects on hormones:  
  • Closely mimics the structure and function of estrogen
Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs)
Common sources:
  • Non-stick cookware, stain repellants and coating for fabrics and carpeting
  • Absorbed  by ingestion, inhalation and dermal contact
Potential effects on hormones:
  • Lowers sperm count
  • Causes low birth weight in newborns
  • Impacts the function of the thyroid gland
(List adopted by NDNR. Fertility and Toxicity: The Powerful Effects of Endocrine Disruptors. Schulz, Alison, ND. Litchy, Andrew, ND. Jan 30, 2015.)

          Although research has looked at these single chemicals and their potential influence on our health, no research has been done to the assess the cumulative effect that multiple chemicals have over time. Whether you are struggling with fertility, have been diagnosed with PCOSfibroids, endometriosis or starting to notice more PMS symptoms, the influence these substances have on our hormonal system need to be addressed.  To ignore the role of endocrine disruptors on our health would lead to inadequate comprehensive treatment of the potential cause of many hormonal imbalances.  

Naturopathic doctors have the ability and knowledge to adequately support the natural detoxification pathways of the body and to assess the toxic burden through various means of assessment.

How we can help

Knowledge is power.  Your naturopathic doctor will work with you to identify sources of exposure in your everyday life and what you can do to reduce your exposure. This may include education about what foods to buy organic, changing your skincare regimen, makeup, cleaning supplies and advising about proper water filtration.

Digestive Support
If there are not enough good bacteria in the intestines, it may cause toxins to recirculate in the body. Your naturopathic doctor will assess the function of your gut by addressing food sensitivities and possible gut flora imbalances. Providing the body with adequate fiber also helps to bind toxins and help with proper elimination. Your naturopathic doctor will assess your individual requirements and make appropriate recommendations based on your history and current presentation.

Weight loss
Many endocrine disruptors are stored in fat tissue.  If you are overweight, one area of focus would be to put you on a program to aid with slow weight loss with concurrent support for the liver to help with the breakdown of toxins as they are being released into the system. Since many POPs share common pathways with dietary fat absorption, your naturopathic doctor may prescribe supplements such as EGCG to help with the binding of toxins through the liver pathways.

Liver Support
There are different pathways in which the liver detoxifies.  Different minerals, vitamins and anti-oxidants are required for each pathway to take place.  Providing the body with these co-factors are an important aspect of any detoxification program.  Further certain supplements and herbs many also be prescribed to support the liver and also, in some cases, stimulate bile production to help with elimination of toxins.

The body has many routes of elimination, including our skin, lungs, bowels, kidneys and mucous membranes.  Adequate elimination is essential and often the primary area on which your naturopath may focus.  If there is a tendency towards constipation or a health history where constipation is prevalent, many toxins can be recirculating in your system. Ensuring regular bowel movements, in combination with advice about deep breathing, dry skin brushing, hydration and going for regular infra-red saunas, would be part of a comprehensive plan individualized for you.

          Endocrine disruptors are part of our modern day reality. Although the knowledge we have about the effect that these chemicals have on our reproductive health is still in its infancy, there is adequate science to confirm their implicated role in many hormonal diseases and unexplained cases of infertility.  The treatment of any hormonal condition has to include the influence of endocrine disruptors on our health, not only to improve symptoms, but to prevent further disease and improve longterm quality of life.

<![CDATA[The Many Faces of PMS ﻿]]>Mon, 30 May 2016 20:30:31 GMThttp://www.pearl-naturopathy.com/blog/may-30th-2016By: Dr. Pearl Arjomand, ND

-Cravings (sugar, chocolates, carbohydrates)
-Breast swelling and tenderness
-Increased apetite
-Changes in libido
-Water retention
-Constipation or diarrhea
What do PSM symptoms mean?
What can cause PMS?

Naturopathic Approach for the treatment of PMS
Dr. Pearl Arjomand is a Naturopathic Doctor at Core 1 Health Clinic that focuses on women’s health. Her practice consists on treating a variety of hormonal imbalances affecting women.  Dr. Arjomand is also board certified to prescribe bio-identical hormones and dessiccated thyroid. Please call the clinic at 905-763-2673 to book an appointment with Dr. Arjomand.]]>
<![CDATA[The Hidden Cause of Weight Gain]]>Thu, 17 Mar 2016 22:04:17 GMThttp://www.pearl-naturopathy.com/blog/the-hidden-cause-of-weight-gain
By Dr. Pearl Arjomand, ND

Media and society has led us to believe weight gain and obesity are largely due to poor diet and lack of exercise. Other familiar causes include poor portion control, continuous snacking and emotional eating.  However, if you're over 40 and unable to loose weight like you used to in the past, stress may be the reason why. 

Chronic stress is one of the biggest contributors to obesity in North America, yet it is one of the most under-treated causes in weight loss programs.  Stress directly affects our hormones and can cause cravings, appetite changes, insulin resistance and inflammation.  Over time stress starts to affect sex hormones such as testosterone, progesterone and estrogen, and even inhibits thyroid function, which slows down metabolism.

Symptoms that indicate there is a hormonal imbalance contributing to weight gain include the following:Stress and Melatonin
Weight is influenced by quality and quantity of sleep.  Melatonin is our major sleep hormone and is directly affected by cortisol.  Cortisol is a hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to chronic stress.  The more chronic and increased levels of stress there are, the more cortisol is floating around in the blood stream.  This makes falling asleep and staying asleep difficult.  Further, the less sleep you get per night, the more your body will produce cortisol - it's a vicious cycle!  If levels of melatonin are low, this will influence other hormones in the body responsible for appetite control, satiety, cravings and mood.  If you wake up in the morning feeling exhausted, it is one sure sign that you should meet with your Naturopathic Doctor to discuss supplementing with melatonin to help you reach your weight goals.

Stress and Cortisol
Cortisol influences almost every pathway that promotes weight gain.  The challenging aspect of this powerful hormone is the fact that the brain becomes resistant to its signals when it's being produced in high amounts over a long period of time.  The body then tries to compensate by producing even more cortisol to get the brain's attention. Cortisol directly increases fat production in the body, especially around the waist.  It will also affect leptin levels which control satiety between and after meals and can reduce our fat burning rate from 92% to 35%!

Stress and Insulin
Insulin is also a hormone that signals the body to store food as fat. Stress can triple the insulin response to all grains, starches, fruits, sweets and alcohol.  This means the body will respond to 1 apple as if the body just consumed 3!  This exaggerated response eventually contributes to insulin resistance.   So long as insulin levels are high, the body is not burning fat.  Reducing snacking and waiting 5 hours between meals allows the body to start burning fat instead of using stored fuel.  This proven approach to weight loss promotes more balanced regular meals and prevents insulin resistance.

Taking control of your weight - What can be done?

As most people who have tried to loose weight can attest to, the process of weight loss is much more complicated than calories consumed and calories burned.  Hormones influence every step of this process especially as you get older and, without the synchronicity of these hormones, weight loss becomes a frustrating struggle.

Naturopathic Doctors have the tools to assess these possible imbalances through testing and comprehensive intakes where information is gathered to identify these issues.  Even more encouraging is the fact that there are natural options that can specifically target these imbalances and promote weight loss.  Here are a few key treatments that have proven to target and reset the body's response to stress:

Lactium - This is a protein derived from milk that has proven to increase the brain's receptivity to cortisol and rebalance the entire stress pathway.  Patients that are allergic to dairy are still able to take this supplement.

Theanine - This amino acid derived from green tea increases alpha-waves in the brain and thereby improves the quality of sleep.  It also keeps you calmer throughout the day and improves other hormones that regulate mood and appetite, such as serotonin and dopamine.  

Tyrosine - This protein is required to make dopamine, a hormone that is crucial in appetite control and manages snacking and cravings.  Further, tyrosine is required to produce the thyroid hormone. Without it, metabolism can slow down.

Here at Naturopathic Foundations, we have some new formulas with specific ingredients designed to support weight loss in those over 40.  We are excited to share these with our patients and target an area of health where may have often stuggled.  In addition, your ND will recommend dietary changes focused on removing food allergens and improving glycemic control, together with lifestyle changes as a comprehensive approach to weight loss that is safe, sustainable and unique to you.

Dr. Arjomand is a Naturopathic Doctor at Core 1 Heatlth whose practice focuses on women's health and weight loss for those over the age of 40.  She is skilled to address the many areas of hormonal imbalance that may be affecting your ability to lose weight and looks forward to working with you to achieve your weight loss goals.]]>
<![CDATA[​Coming off the Birth Control Pill - What you should know]]>Thu, 21 Jan 2016 23:13:07 GMThttp://www.pearl-naturopathy.com/blog/coming-off-the-birth-control-pill-what-you-should-know
by Dr. Pearl Arjomand, ND

The birth control pill is one of the most commonly prescribed hormones and methods of contraception used by women today.  It is readily prescribed as a first line treatment for many menstrual issues such as irregular, heavy and painful periods.  It's also readily prescribed to treat acne and premenstrual symptoms such as headaches, irritability and breast tenderness.  Females, as young as 13 years old are commonly put on birth control for an undetermined period of time without any reassessment.  

The hormones in birth control pills vary.  Some birth control pills contain estrogen and progesterone, others contain one and not the other and each brand differs in the actual amount of each hormone. The purpose of estrogen and progesterone is to alter the physiology of the body and inhibit ovulation from occurring.  As such, pregnancy is avoided and the hormone fluctuations that occur during and after ovulation are also reduced.

The decision to come off the pill usually coincides with a time when a woman is ready for pregnancy, or when she wants to forgo the often strict regiment of taking the pill.  Once off the pill, the body now has to adjust to its underlying hormonal rhythm which had been previously altered.  If this underlying hormonal state was out of balance prior being medicated, it is common for many symptoms experienced before to return, often much worse than before.

naturopathic doctor can help not only regulate your hormones after coming off the pill, but can also help reduce many of the symptoms that caused you to go on the pill in the first place.  The longer you have been on the pill, the more essential it is to support the body before you come off the pill.

Here are some common symptoms that may exacerbate if the body is not properly supported prior to coming off the pill:
  • Irritability and Mood Instability
 It can take up to 6 months for hormones to stabilize after coming off the pill.  This period of transition can contribute to fluctuations of hormones leading to irritability, depression and anxiety.  Hormonal support such as B vitamins and herbal preparations can prevent mood imbalances.If you experienced acne prior to being on the pill, changes are your acne will return.  Since the birth control pill decreases testosterone these levels may increase causing acne once off the pill.  Food sensitivities are another major contributor to acne.  If inflammatory foods are not identified and addressed prior, skin aggravations are more likely to occur.
  • Irregular Periods
As your body is attempting to regulate on its own, cycles can be irregular causing recurrent periods or even an absence for many months.  Periods can also be significantly heavier and more painful.  Identifying inflammatory foods, nutrient deficiencies and doing acupuncture can significantly prevent these imbalances from occurring.

How can a naturopathic doctor help?
 Hormone balance is a complex process that involves many organs and reactions in the body. Coming off the birth control pill can often cause hormone function to be left impaired and, without the proper support, this can impact overall quality of life and fertility.  Bridging the period of time between coming off the birth control pill and supporting the body afterwards prevents many aggravations from occurring. Here are a few areas a naturopathic doctor would start to address before and after you come off the pill:

  • Hormone Regulation 
There are many herbs and homeopathic remedies that can effectively regulate menses.  The advantage of working with a naturopath is to identify which remedy would be appropriate,  and allow the body to not only regain normal menstrual cycle length and flow, but also reduce symptoms of migraines, breast tenderness, water retention and irritability that may also occur due to abnormal hormone fluctuation.
  • Replenishing Deficient Nutrients
The birth control pill depletes the body of nutrients.  These vitamins and minerals are essential for proper neurotransmitter and hormonal function.  Some vitamins that are readily depleted by birth control include B vitamins, folic acid and magnesium.  When these nutrients are identified and supported, menstrual andpremenstrual symptoms can be significantly improved.
  • Liver and Gallbladder Support
Since the liver is the organ responsible for metabolizing hormones and the bile is one of the main routes of elimination of metabolites, its function is often stressed by the birth control pill.  A naturopathic doctor can identify which herbal remedy, homeopathic or nutrient would be most effective to help these organs detoxify and function optimally.
  • Gut Health and Diet
Hormones can be recycled through the gut if they are not eliminated properly.  Gut bacteria and regular bowel movements play a significant role in regulating hormones.  Diet can also influence the function of the liver and gallbladder.  Foods such as bitter greens, brassica vegetables, flaxseeds and high fiber legumes can help support the gut and liver.

If you'd like to learn more about the pros and cons of the birth control pill, stay tuned for Dr. Arjomand's next blogand seminar scheduled for February.

Dr. Arjomand is a Naturopathic Doctor at Anova Wellness Integrative Fertility Clinic.  For questions or bookings please call 416-225-5050.]]>
<![CDATA[Are You A Good Candidate For Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy?﻿]]>Mon, 30 Nov 2015 16:04:30 GMThttp://www.pearl-naturopathy.com/blog/are-you-a-good-candidate-for-bio-identical-hormone-therapy                Are you a middle-aged woman struggling with hot flashes, insomnia, low sex drive or uncomfortable vaginal dryness?  Have you tried a number of therapies to find relief but have not found sustainable improvement in your symptoms?  As we age, hormone production and metabolism change.  Between the ages of 40-55 there begins to be a natural decline in the production of estrogen and progesterone and these hormonal shifts often contribute to these unpleasant symptoms.

Bio-identical Hormone Therapy (BHRT) is a safe and effective option that is now available through prescription from some naturopathic doctor to help you through this transition.

Do any of these signs and symptoms relate to you?  If so, hormone imbalance may be a contributing factor.

Bio-identical Hormones - What are they?

Bio-identical hormones refer to natural hormones that have a molecular chemical structure identical to that of the body's own hormones.  This is very important since the structure of each hormone will define the reaction it has at the cellular level.  The identical molecular structure of these hormones allows a "key in lock" reaction causing a more natural and physiological effect from the body.  These natural hormones are most often extracted from plants such as soybeans or Mexican wild yam root.

Benefits from using Bio-identical Hormones vs. Synthetic Hormone Replacement

1. How they're metabolized.

The body innately knows how to metabolize its own estrogen over a synthetic form.  Natural estrogen is not only broken down and eliminated from the body much faster than its synthetic counter-part, but we also know now that the by-products from this metabolism are less harmful to the body.

2. Fever side effects.

Natural hormones have fever side effects than synthetic hormone replacement (HRT), especially in the case ofprogesterone.  Bio-identical progesterone balances the effects of estrogen in the breast tissue and, in some cases, is used to reduce breast cancer risk.  Other benefits include reduction in anxiety, irritability, help with sleep, lower cholesterol and reduced water retention.

3. Individualized dosages.

Bio-identical hormones are compounded at your local pharmacy.  Therefore, your naturopathic doctor can create a customized dosing regimen and potency to fit your individual needs.  This allows us to adjust and taper dosages when necessary.

4.  No additives, preservatives or fillers.

Any drug that is patented contains preservatives, binders, fillers and dyes.  Individualized compounded formulas are often free of these agents.

Would Bio-identical Hormone Therapy be good for you?
Bio-identical Hormone therapy (BHRT) can be very effective if you are suffering from hot flashes, vaginal dryness contributing to pain with intercourse, increased frequency of vaginal and urinary infections, insomnia and anxiety related to menopause. BHRT is often considered an effective therapy when perimenopausal and menopausalsymptoms are extreme.  There is evidence that BHRT may provide some benefit to women who are at mild risk ofosteoporosis and heart disease.

Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy is not a stand-alone therapy.

Our physiology depends on balanced hormones, neurotransmitters and chemical reactions to take place in order for proper functioning. The building blocks from all these reactions come from proper nutrition, optimal digestive function and a balanced lifestyle.  The naturopathic approach takes into account the whole person, addressing not only the hormonal component of our health, but also other essential tenants such as our nutrition,  influences from our environment and mental/emotional aspects.  Further, your naturopathic doctor will often combine hormonal support through the use of bio-identical hormones together with nutritional, herbal, dietary and lifestyle recommendations for a comprehensive treatment plan.  We will also work with you to support optimal functioning of different body systems such as our liver, digestion, nervous system and immune system.  This will allow treatments to be more effective and sustainable.

To prescribe bio-identical hormone therapy, a naturopathic doctor must first pass a board-certified pharmacy exam.  At Naturopathic Foundations Health ClinicDr. Arjomand is one of the licensed naturopathic doctors that can prescribe bio-identical hormones and has a special interest in women's health.

For more information about bio-identical hormone therapy or to book a consultation with Dr. Arjomand, ND please call Anova Wellness Integrative Fertility Clinic at 416-225-5050.]]>
<![CDATA[Bloated? Consult a Naturopathic Doctor. We can help.]]>Tue, 07 Jul 2015 20:48:33 GMThttp://www.pearl-naturopathy.com/blog/bloated-consult-a-naturopathic-doctor-we-can-helpAlmost everyone at some point experiences uncomfortable bloating and gas, and for some of us it affects our daily life.  

The digestion process is very complex and involves many enzymes and hormones.  Integral to this is a bacterial eco-system that has to be in balance.  Even our nervous system has a tremendous influence on our ability to break things down properly and absorb nutrients.  With this in mind bloating and uncomfortable gas can be the result of an imbalance in any of these areas.  A comprehensive investigation of the foods you are eating and your symptoms can point to some possible causes of your discomfort.  Here are some of the main culprits I see in my practice on a daily basis:

1.  Food sensitivities. 
Foods that don’t agree with your body can fuel inflammation in your gut lining and disrupt the digestion process.  Research confirms that food sensitivities can aggravate IBS and avoiding them can improve bloating and bowel irregularities. Food sensitivities can be identified through a test called IgG food sensitivity testing. Discuss doing an IgG food sensitivity test with a Naturopathic Doctor.

2.  Gut bacteria.
There are billions of microbacteria that line the entire digestive system.  Some of these organisms are beneficial and others may be problematic if they kept in balance with the good bacteria.  Probiotics have been demonstrated time and again to have beneficial effects on digestion.  They are not only anti-inflammatory when ingested in high amounts, but they also improve immune function and prevent the binding of harmful bacteria in the gut. Studies show they normalize bowel transit time and reduce abdominal distension.

3.  Stomach acid.
Not enough stomach acid leads to improper break down of protein and promotes the growth of bad bacteria lower down in the digestive system.  Improper break down of food leads to fermentation and the formation of gas and bloating. Supplementing with hydrochloric acid or taking apple cider vinegar prior to meals can help normalize stomach pH.

4. Food hygiene.
Digestion begins as soon as food enters the body through the mouth.  Properly chewing your food assists the body at further breaking things down.  Eating in a relaxed setting can also do wonders for your digestion.  When the nervous system is stimulated and the body is in “fight or flight” state digestion is impaired and this can lead to loose and frequent bowels and associated bloating. Drinking with your meals can also dilute digestive enzymes and reduce proper breakdown of your food.


<![CDATA[Are you tired? Your adrenals may be the reason.]]>Tue, 21 Oct 2014 20:29:24 GMThttp://www.pearl-naturopathy.com/blog/are-you-tired-your-adrenals-may-be-the-reason Your adrenal glands are two little glands that sit on top of your kidneys and release hormones that help your body respond to stress. These important hormones also influence your immune system, weight, blood pressure and blood sugar. In today’s high stress world these glands are often overworked and depleted leading to a host of other health problems.

Throughout our evolutionary development, our physical bodies have been primed to respond very resiliently to acute stressors. Short-term stress isn’t necessarily harmful to the body, as it can return to its homeostatic baseline quite well after the stressor has passed. However, the stress we experience in today’s world is hardly short term. Small and large stressors accumulate chronically over time and eventually the demand on our body becomes more than we can handle. Our adrenal glands release hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol to help our bodies adapt. Through chronic recurrent stress, levels of cortisol and epinephrine remain elevated leading to a host of conditions such as weight gain, arthritis, allergies and autoimmune conditions. Chronic stress can eventually lead to exhaustion, where conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and irritable bowel syndrome predominate.

Here are 5 things you can do to support your adrenal glands:

  1. Balance Blood Sugar – Eating regular meals high in protein & fiber and low in simple carbs and sugars helps keep your blood sugar balanced.
  2. Eliminate stimulants from your diet – Caffeine pushes your adrenal glands to release more adrenaline hormones. Try and reduce the amount of coffee, chocolate, alcohol and pop in your diet to help your adrenal glands recover.
  3. Exercise but not too much, and not too late in the eveningHigh intensity cardio exercise can further stress the adrenal glands when they are already depleted. Engaging in low intensity exercise and resistance training earlier in the day is best.
  4. Supplement with nutrients that support your adrenals B vitamins (especially B5, B6 and B12), Vitamin C and magnesium are essential nutrients your adrenals require to produce their hormones efficiency. Herbs such as Rhodiola, Withania and Eleuthrococcus are adaptogenic herbs, which help increase your body’s resilience to stress. Discuss these herbs and supplements with a Naturopathic Doctor before you supplement.
  5. Practice mindfulnessRestorative yoga is a specific form of Yoga that helps your nervous system re-tune. It teaches your nervous system what it means to be in “parasympathetic state” also known as relaxation. It helps us tune in to our bodies and become at peace with our minds. Every Tuesday evenings at Cloud Care Clinics we offer a free Restorative Yoga Class. Everyone is welcome, so come and begin your journey towards a more balanced, energetic and happier you.
<![CDATA[Vitamin B12 - Why you may need some]]>Thu, 04 Sep 2014 19:35:09 GMThttp://www.pearl-naturopathy.com/blog/vitamin-b12-why-you-may-need-some-how-it-can-optimize-your-healthPicture
Many of my patients call their weekly Vitamin B12 injection their “magic boost” and eagerly anticipate when they will get their next one. For some, it has literally changed their life. 

 Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin which means it gets excreted through our urine.  It has many functions in the body that are imperative to our health.  It works along side other vitamins such as folic acid in the production of DNA, red blood cells, and the myelin sheath that surrounds nerves and helps with nerve conduction. It’s important for every cell that undergoes a high rate of replication such as our hair, skin and gut.  It also plays a major role in our energy metabolism and immune function. 

Foods highest in Vitamin B12 come from red meat and other animal products such as poultry, eggs, milk and some fortified cereals.  However, if your digestive system isn’t working optimally, you might not even be absorbing B12 from your diet.  Parietal cells are cells in your stomach that produce HCL and something called intrinsic factor.  Intrinsic factor is required for the absorption of B12 in the small intestine.  Medications used for heartburn will often interfere with the function of these cells or alkalinize the stomach thereby leading to deficiencies in Vitamin B12.  If you notice that you get gassy after protein rich meals, or burp a lot this could also be an indication of low stomach acid which further interferes with your body’s ability to absorb this vital vitamin.   That’s why I often recommend injections to my patients.  Muscular injections ensure that the vitamin is going into your system to the blood stream where it can be utilized immediately, by-passing the entire digestion where compromised absorption can occur. 

Vitamin B12 also functions as an important cofactor in many reactions in the body.  For example, in order to make serotonin (that feel good hormone) and melatonin (sleep hormone), your body requires Vitamin B12  and B6 for that chemical reaction to take place.  If there is a deficiency, or not enough – one can feel depressed, suffer from anxiety and insomnia.

So what is considered a “deficiency” ?   Your Vitamin B12 levels can be checked through a blood test.  Normal ranges run from 150-500, which is quite a large reference range.  This is where individualized and functional medicine comes in- some people feel much better at higher levels, and others might not feel anything until they are well below normal reference ranges.  Through clinical experience, I’ve found patients notice better mental alertness, energy, sleep and improved mood at higher levels.

Optimal B12 levels can also help with your metabolism.  It can assist your thyroid to function optimally, and since it support energy production at the cellular level, it can help with improving your metabolism.  Vitamin B12 can also help your body respond to stress better.  Your adrenal glands are glands that sit on top of your kidneys and product some of the hormones that help your body respond to stress. These hormones all require Vitamin B12 for their production.  If you are under chronic stress, these glands have a higher requirement for B12. Supporting them with optimal levels may allow you to bounce back from stressful situations better than before.  

Book a consultation with a Naturopathic Doctor to find out if you may benefit from added Vitamin B12.