Canada’s Favourite Health Magazine ISSUE 79 Nov/Dec 2011
Telomeres:
ENTER TO
WIN
Unlocking the Secret of Human Aging and Age-Related Disease
PAG E 4 0
HABITS OF HEALTH: TRAVEL
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GIVING GREEN GIFTS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
pg.
Interview with THE STARS OF CBC’S HIT SHOW
BATTLE OF THE BLADES
Feature: A 56 MILLION YEAR OLD LESSON IN CLIMATE CHANGE Y O U R
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CONTENTS www.vistamagonline.com
CCOONNTTEENNTTSS Issue 79 | Nov/Dec 2011
Issue 78 | Sept/Oct 2011
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Telomeres: Unlocking the Secret of Human Aging and Age-Related Disease By Murray McMahon
Nobel prize winning research reveals the secrets of cellular aging.
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Fighting Cold and Flu the Natural Way By Trish Fletcher
Oil of oregano for powerful, all-natural cold and flu prevention.
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Homeopathy for Teething By Stephenie Farrell
Natural remedies for your baby’s discomfort.
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Kurt Browning and the Stars of CBC’s Battle of the Blades
Recipe for Health: Gluten-Free Shepherd’s Pie By Tracy Kaye Holly, CSNA Master
Garlic: From Traditional Remedy to Scientific Treatment By Stephanie Grylls, B.Sc.
Health benefits of the “stinking rose.”
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VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 79
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This issue of
M A G A Z I N E
www.vistamagonline.com
proudly brought to you by:
Publisher’s
word
Editor: Liberty Craig Marketing Director & Associate Editor: Shelly-Lynn Nellis Art Director:
Michelle Beaudry
Copy Editor: Dan Tidsbury advertising sales:
1-877-905-7771
COVER Photo: courtesy of CBC
Contributing Writers: Dr. Connie D’Astolfo, Dr. Cory Holly, David Suzuki, Ian Hanington, Jolie Root, Katelyn Rousselle, Liberty Craig, Lorna Vanderhaeghe, Murray McMahon, Sam Hari, Dr. Serenity Aberdour, Shelly Nellis, Stephanie Grylls, Stephenie Farrell, Tami Main, Tracy Kaye Holly, Trish Fletcher
vista Magazine publishes bi-monthly issues and is distributed through the health food retailers of Canada. Send all questions, comments, and inquiries to: VISTA Magazine 13256 55A Avenue Surrey, BC CANADA V3X 3B3 Tel (604) 591-9991 or (877) 905-7771 Fax (604) 591-1989e-mail vistamag@gmail.com www.vistamagonline.com
vista Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. Opinions expressed herein are those of the a uthors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect those of the vista Magazine publisher, editors or staff. Readers are encouraged to consult with their health professional before embarking upon any exercise, medical or nutritional changes. Contents of vista Magazine are copyright 2010, all rights reserved. vista Magazine may not be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without written permission of the publisher. To subscribe to vista Magazine and receive delivery to your home or office bimonthly, send $39.95 + HST $4.80 = $44.75 for 1year subscription. Include your address and we’ll ship you our next issue. Single copies are also available for $6.95 + HST $.80 = $7.75. Canadian Publications Mail Products Sales Agreement #40025872 ISSN #1715-8214
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reedom of choice is what makes being a Canadian a privilege. I was born in Canada and I choose to live here because of the freedoms Canada offers me and my family. We live in a free society that allows us to make our own decisions regarding our personal lives. What we wear, where we live, how we are employed, what we watch on TV and the foods we consume are all part of the freedoms and liberties we experience as Canadians. Or are they? I encourage all our readers who enjoy having these freedoms to check out Trent E. Nellis - Publisher, Vista Magazine an editorial letter sent to me by one my colleagues. The man is named Deane Parkes and he has spent his entire career in the Canadian Health Food sector. Deane’s thoughts and opinions have been formed through a lifetime of experience and he is regarded as an expert in the industry. Deane has penned a letter to his local Member of Parliament in Ottawa, voicing his concerns over Health Canada’s nonsensical ruling in regards to how our food supply is being regulated; how Health Canada is having a hard time distinguishing the difference between life- threatening drugs such as tobacco and alcohol and their misguided categorization of common natural substances such as gardenvariety herbs. We as Canadians have always enjoyed the luxury of being free and having freedom of choice. If we wish to continue to enjoy these freedoms, we need to speak our minds before it is too late and we become a country whose values are swayed by corporate pressure and lobbying that has a negative impact on its citizens. Please go to our website at www.vistamagonline.com and read Mr Parkes’ letter, and form your own opinion of what is actually going on behind the closed doors at Health Canada. If, like me, you find it ridiculous and insulting that decisions are being made for us about our right to choose what type of foods and health products we put in our bodies, I strongly suggest that you contact your local Member of Parliament and voice your concerns.
Photo Credit: Erich Saide
Publisher: Trent Nellis
Trent E. Nellis, Publisher To contact Trent Nellis via e‑mail, write to thepub@shaw.ca
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CONTENTS CONTENTS Issue 79 | Nov/Dec 2011
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Ayurveda: Ancient Wisdom for a Happy, Healthy Life By Sam Hari A balance of elements for overall health.
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It’s not all about diet and exercise.
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Articles:
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A 56-million-year-old lesson in climate change.
34 36
Green Gift Giving
Organic Mama Invasion of the Toys: The “3 Rs” of Children’s Toys By Tami Main
Make environmentally friendly choices this holiday season.
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Editor Selects
Vertigo By Dr. Connie D'Astolfo, DC, PhD (c) The science of dizziness.
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Reversing Summer Sun Damage By Katelyn Rousselle
Go deep to prevent and reverse sun-damaged skin.
Science Matters By David Suzuki with contributions from Ian Hanington
Habits of Health: Travel By Dr. Cory Holly
Travel is good for the mind, body and soul.
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Three Steps to Effortless Weight Loss By Lorna Vanderhaeghe, MS
New To Market
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Enjoy beautiful, healthy hair, smoother looking skin, and stronger nails
Liberty Craig - Editor, Vista Magazine
A
s I write this, it’s the day after Halloween and I’m suffering from a severe sugar hangover. To make matters worse, I already feel behind on my Christmas shopping. When did Christmas start coming in September? I may have even seen plastic trees adorned with tinsel as early as August in some of the more aggressive big-box stores. As Christmas and Halloween collide in a sugary profusion of spending sprees, it’s time to take a deep breath – and a giant step back from all this materialism and gluttony. The holidays are not about the gifts. They’re about time with family, love and peace. On the day of celebration, at least, I think we often achieve these lofty goals. But in the lead-up to our events, it is difficult to avoid letting commercialism reign supreme. We need to constantly remind ourselves of the importance of giving with love – love for the gift recipient, of course, as well as love for our planet, for the concept of giving, and for ourselves, too. When we give gifts that are kind to the environment, we are giving responsibly. (See our favourite picks for green gifts this year!) When we respect the traditions of giving, we remember what is important about the holiday season. When we respect our own health and well-being, we are better able to lavish love and energy on others. Keep healthy this holiday season with natural products like oregano and garlic – check out this issue’s articles on how these fortifying remedies can help you. We’ve also got tips for healthy holiday travel, plus advice on how to make environmentally friendly choices when purchasing toys for kids. Above all, stay well and focus on what really matters; that is what will get you through the stress of the holidays with joy. This issue’s cover features Kurt Browning, four-time world figure skating champion and co-host of CBC’s hit on-ice competition series Battle of the Blades. Kurt is joined by some of the remaining competitors to discuss their favourite parts of the show and, in the spirit of giving, the charities they are skating to support. Here’s to a happy, healthy holiday season!
Liberty Craig, Editor
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Telomeres:
Unlocking the Secret of Human Aging and Age-Related Disease By Murray McMahon
Y
ou may not have heard the term “telomeres” – most of us haven’t, though this is about to change. It was only in 1984 that the 2009 Nobel prize winning scientists proved that telomeres are fundamental to cell aging and play a central role in human aging and disease. Telomeres are the DNA caps on the ends of our chromosomes. Think of them as the plastic tip at the end of a shoelace. Once this protective tip wears down, your shoelace begins to unravel. The same is true for genes near the ends of chromosomes. Every time cell division takes place, the telomeres are shortened slightly, leading to the eventual death of the cell. An enzyme called telomerase is responsible for maintaining and lengthening telomeres. Telomerase delays the aging of the cell, and many scientists believe that this process is the key to understanding human aging. Telomerase also helps to stabilize genes, protecting them from malignant transformation – meaning cancer. Much of the current research on telomerase and cell aging focuses on cancer prevention and curing age-related disease. There is also the question of whether telomerase can be used as an effective intervention against aging itself. Recent lab studies indicate that scientists may indeed be able to reset telomeres in aging human cells and, even more interestingly, in human tissues. Currently accepted models for cell aging (including free radical damage, cross-linking, mitochondrial dysfunction, etc.) are theoretical and not easily tested in a lab setting. What is particularly exciting about telomeres is that telomere length can be determined by blood and saliva tests, thereby proving that telomerase activators can actually lengthen telomeres. While biotech companies around the
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world scramble to create their own telomerase activators, the only one currently in commercial production is known as “TA-65.” It is a nutraceutical that is produced using a proprietary process of purification and concentration of the astragalus plant. The standard extraction processes destroy the TA-65 molecule, so other available astragalus extracts have little to no TA-65. Tested from 2002 to 2005 for efficacy and safety, it has been in the marketplace for only the past five years. It takes three tonnes of astragalus to produce one to three pounds of the rare molecule TA-65. At a cost of $600 per 90 capsule bottle, the price can be an issue for some. However, put in the perspective of the price of a Tim Horton’s coffee and muffin a day (under $7) it really is affordable for almost anyone. TA-65 has been available up to now only through licensed doctors. Recently having secured a Canadian ‘Natural Products Number’ (NPN) for TA-65, TA Sciences has chosen Core Natural Limited to distribute TA-65 in Canada through health food and natural health stores. Dr. William R. Andrews PhD is a molecular biologist and president of Sierra Sciences, a biotech firm that specializes in longevity. Dr. Andrews is himself taking TA-65, and says, “TA-65 really does work. There’s nothing else right now that a doctor can recommend or prescribe that can do what it does. But I would like to find things that work even better. If you turn telomerase on enough, you might not only slow the aging process; you could potentially reverse it. This has been demonstrated in mice, but not yet in humans.” So what could this mean for the rest of us? Is telomerase the key to slowing aging and preventing age-related disease? Dr. David Woynarowski, MD, specializes in longevity medicine. He notes that both animal and human studies show that TA-65 can increase telomerase activity and telomere length, with the resulting ef-
fects of improving skin quality, vision, bone density and sexual function, while reducing blood sugar and chronic inflammation. What’s more, says Dr Woynarowski, “TA-65 can accomplish all this independent of any other changes in diet or lifestyle.” The next few years may mark a breakthrough period in the science of anti-aging, as consumer access to a “miracle cure” that actually works may become readily available. The implications of this are astounding: could we really do away with age-related diseases, cancers, and even the prospect of aging? Only time – and science – will tell.
“If you turn telomerase on enough, you might not only slow the aging process; you could potentially reverse it.”
Murray McMahon is a veteran in the health food industry. In 1993 he founded Good Health Mart in Woodbridge Ontario, and with the help of his wife and staff have grown the chain to 15 successful stores in Ontario. Mr. McMahon’s commitment to the knowledge that vitamins, herbs, their extracts, essential food supplements and homeopathic medicines are necessary for everyday health leads him to the discovery of telomere science, and TA Sciences, the manufacturer of TA-65. His goal is to help eradicate illness naturally, and he is convinced that TA-65 is the next progression in the natural health field. References available from Vista
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Homeopathy for
Teething By Stephenie Farrell
W
hat do you do when your smiling, cooing little angel turns into a fussy, restless, drooling bundle of joy? Don’t despair; homeopathy can help put a smile back on your baby’s face and relieve the pain that teething causes for both of you. Before using homeopathics, you should confirm that your baby is actually teething. If you’re not sure, or if your child exhibits unusually severe symptoms, it’s best to consult with your primary health care provider.
Signs of Teething
The following list of common symptoms can help you to determine whether or not your baby is teething. Babies who are teething usually exhibit a combination of: • Redness of the gums • Mild fever • Drooling • Irritability and crankiness • Crying • Sleeplessness or restless sleep • Mild diarrhea Along with the purely physical symptoms of teething, you may notice your baby’s behavior change. Your happy infant may become fussy and refuse to eat or drink. Your baby may gnaw on toys and on her fingers, or pull at her ears in an attempt to soothe the pain she’s experiencing.
Homeopathic Remedies for Teething
The following are some homeopathic remedies commonly used for teething. When choosing a remedy, try to match the symptoms your baby is exhibiting as closely as you can to those of the remedy. • Belladonna: If your baby needs belladonna, she’ll appear flushed and hot with wide, staring pupils. Belladonna helps to relieve the inflammation associated with teething. • Calcarea Phosphorica 6X: This tissue salt is one of the most abundant mineral salts in the human body and is important
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for supporting growth and development. Calcarea phosphorica is a perfect remedy for dentition because it plays a vital role in the building of strong bones and teeth. • Chamomilla: This is useful if your infant is excessively irritable and wishes to be carried. Chamomilla is often called for when one of the baby’s cheeks is hot and red, and the other cheek is pale. • Coffea: If your baby is restless and suffers from sleeplessness, think of coffea. When your baby is highly oversensitive to the pain caused by teething, coffea may be useful.
Useful Tips for Teethers
There are several combination homeopathics available in natural food stores. Look for one containing one or more of the remedies mentioned above. Carefully applying a cold cloth or ice to the gums can reduce inflammation and, therefore, may help reduce some of the pain your baby is feeling. Watch your infant carefully to make sure there aren’t any small toys or objects that could cause choking; babies love to gnaw on things to relieve gum pain. When considering an over-the-counter pain relief formula, avoid those containing Benzocaine. Benzocaine is a local anesthetic used in many teething gels and has a numbing effect on the gums. While numbing the gums may temporarily relieve pain, it could be a choking hazard if your infant were to swallow enough. Teething doesn’t cause fever or diarrhea, but sometimes these symptoms occur at the same time as teething. If the fever and/or diarrhea worsen, seek the advice of your primary healthcare provider.
Stephenie Farrell, DSHomMed, Hons., practices Homeopathy, Bowen, and Hand Reflexology in Hamilton, Ontario. Check her out on the web at www. holistichealthnow.ca or you can contact her at stephenie@holistichealthnow.ca.
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Garlic: From Traditional Remedy to
Scientific Treatment By Stephanie Grylls, B.Sc.
tures reference the benefits of garlic. In ancient India, Ayurvedic medicine touted its benefits for aid against arthritis, cardiovascular issues and digestive disorders. Aboriginals in North America used a garlic-tea preparation for flulike illness. For thousands of years, traditional Chinese medicine has used garlic to preserve food and treat mood, respiratory and digestive disorders. Although these countries did not have contact at the time, they all agreed on garlic’s anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties. These ancient societies didn’t understand why garlic worked, but modern science has since substantiated these claims.
W
hen you prepare food in your kitchen using garlic, do you realize that you are wielding a powerful ancient medicine? With cultivation dating as far back as 6,000 B.C., garlic has gained a reputation not only for its pungent smell, but also for its colourful history. Ancient Egyptians prized garlic highly, exchanging it as currency and placing clay garlic models in King Tutankhamen’s tomb. In Europe, it was thought to ward off vampires, nymphs and “the evil eye.” In World War II, when antibiotics were in short supply, garlic poultices were placed on wounds to prevent infections. As the oldest plant on record in medical literature, numerous traditional healers revered garlic for its health benefits in both prevention and treatment. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, considered it to be a vital member of his medicinal arsenal, earning it the name “the king of herbs.” As the original performance-enhancing drug, garlic was given to the first Olympians in ancient Greece. Medicinal texts from different world cul-
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The Power of Garlic What makes garlic so special? To answer this question, we need to look at the plant’s natural defence mechanisms. Garlic, or allium sativum, is a member of the lily family (along with onions, shallots and leeks) and comes in hundreds of varieties. The plant structure includes a flowering stem and an underground bulb head that contains eight to 12 cloves. Each clove contains several chemical compounds that form its defence system, protecting the plant against invaders like bacteria and fungi. Within the bulb there is a compound called alliin, which actually has no scent. If a bacteria or fungi break through the wall of the garlic clove, this alliin comes into contact with an enzyme that starts a chemical reaction that produces allicin, the sulphur-containing compound that gives garlic its legendary aroma. Allicin is very potent and destroys the invader, allowing the plant to survive. Thankfully, allicin is a short-lived compound, breaking down quickly so as to not damage the rest of the plant. Allicin is a potent, sulphur-containing phytonutrient that earned garlic the name “the stinking rose.” Allicin also helps our immune/defence system to fight off attack from invaders, whether infection from cold, flu, bacteria or parasites, or from cancer-causing toxins. Why do we care about garlic’s defence system? Because when we consume garlic, we consume these health benefiting compounds
How to Prepare Garlic for Maximum Health Benefits
In order to maximize the benefit of fresh garlic, you must crush it to activate the beneficial compounds. Crush the whole clove with the flat part of a large knife. Then wait 10 minutes before chopping or putting in a garlic press. This will allow the enzyme reaction to take place and form the beneficial allicin compounds.
Some ideas for incorporating more garlic into your diet:
• Add a clove of garlic to your salad dressings, pasta sauce or stir fry. • Use chopped garlic in your meat marinades. • Make fresh garlic bread. Mix garlic and butter. Roast for 2-3 minutes • Try a recipe for Indian or Thai curry to savour the flavour! • Buy garlic supplements at your local health food store.
or phytonutrients (phyto means “plant” in Greek) and use them to our advantage to help our own immune systems. The role of garlic in ancient treatments, often dismissed as folklore, is more recently being backed by evidence in clinical trials and studies. The majority of these clinical studies have been performed on aged garlic extract or enteric coated, dried garlic tablets. For example, studies have shown that garlic is useful in the treatment of food poisoning from salmonella and staphylococcus, confirming what Chinese medicine has known for centuries. Here are some other evidence-based health benefits of garlic:
Immune Booster: The sulphur in garlic helps the body eliminate toxins through the skin and lymph, which in turn gives our immune systems a boost. It has been shown to have an overall positive effect on the immune system by stimulating and boosting antibody activity, white blood cells (which attack invaders), and natural killer cells (which help fight cancer and viruses). This concurs with the ancient knowledge of its effectiveness against bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites. Common Cold Combat: Studies have also shown that consumption of garlic supplements caused reduction in incidence, severity and duration of the common cold. It will also help to keep people away from you when you are under the weather! Heart Healthy: Research also highlights the benefits of garlic on cardiovascular health. Clinical findings show that garlic lowers total cholesterol, lowers LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, raises HDL (“good”) cholesterol and lowers triglycerides levels in the blood. This is thought to aid in the prevention of heart attack, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and stroke. Some studies suggest that garlic reduces high blood pressure by causing relaxation and widening of the blood vessels. Cancer Fighter: Studies show that cultures with higher garlic intake have comparatively lower cancer rates, specifically cancers of the digestive system, including esophageal, stomach and colon cancers – the very same cancers that are on the rise in North America. There are two ways in which garlic has a positive effect in cancer prevention: through detoxifying and specifically targeting cancerous cells. The odorous compounds in garlic speed up the elimination of toxins from our system. For example, when we eat meat, there are toxins that are produced in the digestive system. If we eat garlic with the meat, garlic flushes these toxins out of our system, preventing the potential cancer-causing effects. Garlic works as a border patrol, working to limit harmful toxins in the body. The protective compounds can even target and kill cancer cells. From ancient potions to modern cancer-fighter, the properties of garlic continue to be revered. As science validates these claims, we understand that it is more than its culinary appeal that earned it the name “the king of herbs.” We also discover that tales of our ancestors contain more truth than we give them credit for.
Natural Health Products are just that – natural. Over 70% of Canadians use Natural Health Products (NHPs) as part of their healthy lifestyle. Since 1964 the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) has been advocating for changes that provide consumers with continued access to and choice of safe, innovative and effective natural health and organic products.
Stephanie Grylls, B.Sc., RHN, CHRPNutrition Educator and ConsultantEducate is a nutritionist and nutrition educator. Her mission is to educate people on nutrition, to empower them to make positive changes so they can re-energize and renew their health. Contact Stephanie at 905-252-0674 or email stephanie@nutritionnaturally.ca, or visit the website at www.nutritionnaturally.ca. For the latest nutrition tip follow Stephanie at: @Nutrition_steps.
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Nature’s Most Powerful Herb Of Health
Fighting Cold and Flu the
Natural Way By Trish Fletcher
Mother Nature’s most effective weapon against flu, colds and infection
W
e’re well into cold and flu season now, and chances are you’ve already had your first bout of the sniffles this year. If you have school-age children, you and your family may have battled more than one round against this persistent opponent. The most frequently infectious of diseases, the common cold typically lasts three to seven days, with some symptoms lingering for up to three weeks. On average, an adult experiences between two and four colds per year, while children contract between six and 12 colds per year. That could mean up to 84 cold-ridden days per year for you, and up to 252 days for your children! In the most severe circumstance, that adds up to 69 percent of a child’s year spent with unpleasant cold symptoms. But while a cold is unpleasant, it is not dangerous like influenza, or “the flu.” Influenza causes between three and five million cases of severe illness worldwide each year, and results in up to 500,000 deaths. Approximately three times per century, this yearly epidemic becomes a pandemic that is capable of killing millions of people. Roughly 200,000 people are hospitalized each year in the United States due to influenza, which is most dangerous for the young, old, and unwell.
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We all know there is no cure for the common cold. There are vaccines available for some flu strains, and for mild flu symptoms we are typically advised simply to rest and hydrate well. However, there are remarkable natural remedies and preventatives for both cold and flu, which are a welcome alternative to the pharmaceutical drugs that make you feel sleepy and “stoned” and can be harmful to young children. In fact, one of the best defenses against the common cold and flu is a simple herb proven effective over centuries of use: oregano. Oil of oregano, the potent extract of the oregano leaf, is known as nature’s most powerful flu fighter. It also effectively helps prevent colds, sore throats, bronchitis, sinus and chest congestion, and acts as an overall booster for the immune system. Used for centuries to treat a variety of illnesses, oil of oregano contains carvacrol. This naturally occurring substance is a powerful protector from microbes like bacteria, virus, parasites and fungus; the anti-microbial action of carvacrol is simply unmatched. Oil of oregano also contains flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants (more powerful even than vitamins C and E) with natural antiseptic properties. This potent herbal extract also includes terpenes, which exhibit natural anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, in his book The Practice of Aromatherapy, Jean Valnet goes so far as to say that oil of oregano “superseded antiinflammatory drugs in reversing pain and inflammation and is nearly as powerful as morphine as a painkiller.”
Oil of Oregano for Your Family
Oil of oregano is safe for use by your whole family. While children may protest at the bitter taste, manufacturers often mask the flavour of the remedy with fresh mint or other pleasant additions. Oil of oregano must be diluted in a solution for internal consumption. Ensure the primary component in your oil of oregano is carvacrol rather than thymol, which is not considered suitable for consumption. Rely on the anti-viral, anti-microbial, immune-boosting powers of oil of oregano this cold and flu season – and spend a great deal more of your time feeling healthy! Trish Fletcher is a natural health product researcher, marketer and distributor working in the industry for the past 8 years.
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Kurt Browning
and the Stars of CBC’s Battle of the Blades By Liberty Craig Photos courtesy of cbc
www.vistamagonline.com
N
ow well into its third enormously popular season, CBC’s Battle of the Blades is a fiercely competitive, charming, impressive and heart warming competition in which figure skaters are teamed up with hockey players to perform challenging figure skating routines. Hosted by four-time world figure skating champion Kurt Browning alongside Hockey Night in Canada’s Ron MacLean, the show has been a resounding success across Canada. Part of the great appeal of the show is its charity component: each team is skating in support of a charity of their choosing (and each is guaranteed $12,500 for their charity), with the winners garnering a $50,000 donation for their charity. The great twist of season three is the “gender bender” couple: Canadian National Women’s Hockey Olympic gold medalist Tessa Bonhomme and her partner, Olympic figure skating champion David Pelletier. We speak with Kurt Browning along with a few of the remaining contestants below...
Kurt Browning – Host
Four-time Canadian figure skating champion and four-time world champion, hall-of-famer Kurt Browning is back for season three of muscle-meets-grace in Battle of the Blades.
been a wonderful bonus. I just wish he would buy different blades for his hockey skates, since these ones squeak when he skates and it drives me crazy!
Vista: What are the strengths and weaknesses of hockey players as compared to figure skaters in this competition?
Kurt: Truth be told, figure skaters have much more versatility and creativity on the ice, but hockey players have the speed and power.
Vista: What is the best part of being a Battle of the Blades co-host? Kurt: My favourite part is how much people connect with and enjoy the show. I also love getting to know the players and seeing how much they enjoy skating with their partners. But one of the best parts is hearing stories about the NHL... they are very different from figure skating stories!
Vista: What are the toughest challenges for the hockey players? Kurt: There is a long list of challenges that the hockey players must face, but one of the hardest is the music and moving to it. Most would think it was the toe pick and the different skate, but they are such strong skaters that most of them do quite well with that problem. But counting music and remembering choreography is new and very intimidating to most of them.
Vista: What are you most proud of on the show? Kurt: I am so happy that the hockey players take this seriously and respect their partners, the show and the sport of figure skating. The charity aspect of the show is something that everyone is proud of and the stories the players tell about why they chose their particular charities have inspired many, many people.
Ron MacLean – Host
Ten-time Gemini Award winner and host of Hockey Night in Canada since 1986, Ron MacLean returns as host of Battle of the Blades for the third season of the show.
Kurt Browning (center, left) – Host
Vista: We hear you were skating circles around Ron MacLean re-
cently! What happens when figure skaters meet hockey players on the ice? Kurt: Well, I suppose I am better on the ice than Ron, unless he has a stick and puck, and then I am no match! When figure skaters meet hockey players on the ice, the hockey player picks up the figure skater and carries her over his head and the crowd cheers. At least that is what has taken place until Tessa Bonhomme met up with David Pelletier, and then it was the opposite!
Vista: How are you enjoying hosting with Hockey Night in Canada legend Ron MacLean?
Kurt: Ron is such a unique and cool guy, and working with him has
Ron MacLean – Host Ron on the Battle of the Blades hockey players: “I just didn’t think they could ever possibly, a), put themselves out to the extent they did artistically, and b) handle the skating. I should have realized they’re great athletes… But to do the lifts and everything else, there’s so much about it that is just beyond belief.”
Bryan Berard – Still Standing!
Bryan Berard overcame a debilitating eye injury early in his career to become a Calder and Bill Masterson Trophy winner. Bryan wore a variety of jerseys including the Toronto Maple Leafs, New York Islanders,
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New York Rangers, Columbus Blue Jackets, Chicago Blackhawks and the US Olympic team before retiring from hockey in 2008. “The hardest thing for us hockey players is to figure skate. Where do I start! First it’s the figure skates with the toe pick, then you have to learn the routine and all the steps in less than a week, all while learning to count the rhythm properly. Then you need to learn the lifts. And then you need to perform – smile! “The charity we skate for is Do It For Daron (DIFD) with the Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health. Daron was the daughter of Luke and Stephanie Richardson. She committed suicide at the age of 14. I played with Luke in Columbus and with the recent tragedy of Wade Belak, Marie-France and I wanted to raise awareness for youth’s mental health. The more people feel they can open up and talk, the more lives we can save.”
Boyd Devereaux – Still Standing!
After scoring the game-winning goal against the US in the 1997 World Junior Championships, Boyd Devereaux began his NHL career with the Edmonton Oilers, then went on to win the Stanley Cup with the Detroit Red Wings in 2002. He later played for both the Phoenix Coyotes and the Toronto Maple Leafs. “The biggest reasons why I decided to do the show were the challenge it would present, the ability to help out a great charity, and the fact that my daughters, Tessa and Lucy, would get a kick out of it! I’m supporting the Huron-PerthBruce-Grey chapter of Epilepsy Ontario. My brother Mike has epilepsy, and having seen his struggles with it, particularly through his childhood and teenage years, I feel very good about supporting this organization, which provides support to individuals and families coping with epilepsy. Huron-Perth-Grey-Bruce is largely a rural area, so the support is very important as resources are diminished further away from urban centres.”
Tessa Bonhomme – Still Standing!
Tessa Bonhomme, the only female hockey player to have graced Battle of the Blades ice, skated to Olympic gold with Canada’s National Women’s Hockey in the 2010 Olympics. However, this was by no means her first time on the podium: in 2007 she and the team also won the gold medal, with silver medals in 2005 and 2009. A hockey player from childhood, Tessa had never put on a pair of figure skates before joining Battle of the Blades in season three! In joining Battle of the Blades, Tessa aims to test her skating skills and promote the sport of female hockey in Canada. Tessa is skating for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foun-
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dation ‘CIBC Run For The Cure’ – Sudbury Run Site. The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation’s CIBC Run For The Cure is Canada’s largest single-day, volunteer-led fundraising event. Dedicated to raising funds for breast cancer research, education and awareness programs, this national volunteer-based organization is dedicated to creating a future without breast cancer.
David Pelletier – Still Standing!
2002 Olympic pairs champion, 2001 World pairs champion, and threetime Canadian pairs champion, David Pelletier has innumerable awards and trophies under his belt. This hall of famer is one of the greatest pairs skaters in history – and the only male figure skater in this season of Battle of the Blades. What could be better than pairing Pelletier with Tessa Bonhomme for a great role reversal and meeting of incredible talents. David is skating for the Ronald McDonald House of Southern Alberta. The Ronald McDonald house supports Canadian families through their difficulties with seriously ill children by providing a home away from home for families with children in nearby hospitals, plus a full range of supportive programs.
Violetta Afanasieva – Still Standing!
Extreme Ice Skating World Champion Violetta Afanasieva returns for her second season on Battle of the Blades. “I love everything about this show, from its concept of uniting the world of hockey with figure skating to highlighting and bringing awareness to so many charities. On the ice, I get an amazing feeling of connecting with the studio audience and exchanging energy. Off the ice, there is a friendly atmosphere, created by hard work and the friendly BOTB team that makes you not want to leave work at the end of the day. The idea of supporting the Canadian Cancer Society came from my BOTB partner Cale [Hulse]. The cause is very close to his heart, as Cale’s father has battled cancer for many years and is now cancer-free. My family and I are lucky not to be affected by this terrible disease, but I have seen the horror of it, when two of my closest friends lost their parents to cancer. The Canadian Cancer Society puts an amazing effort into fighting cancer, working on its prevention and cure. I want to do everything possible to help in this fight, so there is hope for a cancerfree world.”
Ron MacLean quotation is quoted from www.westofthecity.com.
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Recipe for Health:
Gluten-Free
Shepherd’s Pie By Tracy Kaye Holly, CSNA Master
S
hepherd’s pie is a delicious comfort food: it’s warming and filling and will leave you pleasantly satisfied on cold winter nights. It’s great for freezing and makes delicious leftovers too. Shepherd’s pie is an old English dish, traditionally made with lamb or mutton. North Americans typically make shepherd’s pie with beef. The English (and Australians and New Zealanders) call the beef dish “cottage pie.” Shepherd’s pie is essentially a casserole, lined with cooked meat and vegetables, topped with mashed potatoes, and baked. The term ‘cottage pie’ dates back to 1791 when the potato was introduced to the poor as an affordable, edible crop. “Cottage” refers to the modest dwellings typically utilized by rural workers at that
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time. In early cookery books, shepherd’s pie was simply leftover roasted meat of any kind added to a pie dish lined with mashed potato. Mashed potato was also used as a decorative crust on top. Preparing an original shepherd’s pie is remarkably easy. You can make it with ground beef, chopped roast beef, ground turkey, chopped turkey, ground lamb, chopped lamb or even lentils as a meat alternative. Pies range from spicy to crispy to cheesy; all are possible. Top your pie with buttery mashed potatoes, maple syrup yams or sweet potatoes. Ground lean turkey with yams is our favourite – and much lighter with our hips and thighs in mind. Original ingredients make this dish delightful and personal, so get creative and add your
favorite culinary surprises to this popular pie. As an added bonus, this dish is gluten-free! Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil 1 small onion, chopped 1 cup celery, diced 1 cup carrots, diced 4 cloves crushed garlic 3 medium tomatoes, diced 2 lbs ground turkey meat (1lb white and 1lb dark) ½ cup filtered water 2 cups frozen vegetables 2 tsp crushed chilies (optional) ¼ cup Bragg’s Aminos or Tamari sauce (wheat free) 2 tbsp poultry seasoning Crushed black pepper to taste Topping: 2 large yams cooked and mashed (approximately 12 cups) 4 tbsp unsalted butter ½ cup maple syrup or unpasteurized honey Instructions: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Boil yams and mash together with topping ingredients; add sea salt and crushed pepper to taste. Cover a large, deep pan with a thin film of oil. On medium heat, add onions, celery, carrots and garlic. Use spatula to toss. Sauté for approximately 3 minutes, then add tomatoes. Continue to simmer for another 2 minutes until tomatoes are soft. Add meat with water and seasonings. Let simmer for 15 minutes. Add mixed vegetables to the mixture and continue to simmer for 5 minutes. The meat should be browned with a little liquid the bottom. Transfer the meat mixture to a rectangular deep dish pan. Add the yam mixture by the spoonful on top of the meat mixture. Use a fork to spread the yams evenly over the meat. Finish with a crisscross mark across the top. Top with dollops of unsalted butter evenly over the yams. Bake for 20 minutes or until the butter on top of the yams has melted and slightly browned. Let stand for 10 minutes. Use a flipper to cut into large squares. Enjoy! Serving suggestions: For beef: add 2 tbsp Mrs. Dash (original, salt free) For lamb: add 2 tbsp thyme or rosemary For vegetarian: add 6 cups cooked lentils with 1 tbsp curry and serve with large green salad. Substitute your favourite vegetables for frozen vegetables.
Ayurvedic Corner
Ancient Wisdom for a Happy, Healthy Life By Sam Hari
W
elcome to the Ayurvedic corner, where we will be providing useful tips for wellness based on the ancient wisdom that is Ayurveda. Ayurveda is an ancient system of healing that dates back thousands of years. Literally translated from Sanskrit, it is known as “the knowledge of life.” The first records of Ayurveda show up in the Indian Vedas, commonly known as one of the oldest pieces of literature in the world, said to date back more than 5,000 years. One of the unique aspects of Ayurveda is that it looks at a person on much more than a physical level. It incorporates the mind, body and soul. As all three are linked to one another, all must be considered when looking at a person’s state of well-being. It is believed that we all have three Doshas (elemental based energies), which reside in our bodies in varying degrees. When a person is in a healthy state, these Doshas are balanced in a harmony that our body is naturally in tune with. The five elements we speak of in accordance to the principles of Ayurveda are Akash (Ether/Space), Vayu (wind), Tejas (Fire), Jal (water) and Prithvi (earth). The entire universe is comprised of these elements in varying degrees.
The Three Doshas •
Vata: Predominantly air and ether based, Vata is the energy of movement. Similar to wind in nature, it is constantly in motion. In the body it manifests as movement, transportation and action. It is also known as the king of the Doshas, as the other two Doshas tend to follow Vata’s lead.
•
Pitta: Predominately fire and water based, Pitta is the energy of conversion. In nature, Pitta is most comparable to the energy of the sun. Manifested in the physical body, it governs metabolism, conversion and transformation.
•
Kapha: Predominately water and earth based, Kapha is the energy of building or cohesion. It’s very important as it builds muscles and tissues and lubricates our joints, allowing for mobility. In nature it is most similar to water as it nourishes life.
An Individual Approach to Health
Depending on an individual’s natural healthy state of being, Ayurveda looks at each person differently and as a result ailments are treated differently rather than using a blanket approach. Many things affect our
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state of well-being: diet, lifestyle, sleep, the company we keep, as well as the routine of our daily lives. Knowing how these things affect us is paramount in understanding and preventing disease. Ayurveda places great emphasis on preventative measures that will enable one to maintain and improve health. Of course, Ayurveda defines health a little differently than what most of us are accustomed to. According to the principles of Ayurveda, Swastha (a healthy person) is defined as a person who: • • • • • • •
has maintained their Prakriti (body’s natural state of being), has their three Doshas functioning properly, has proper Agni (digestive power), has proper functioning of Dhatus (tissues in accordance to the principles of Ayurveda), eliminates wastes and toxins accumulated in the body properly and in a timely manner, has sharp senses of touch, taste, smell and vision, and has a clear, calm, stable and peaceful state of mind.
Of course we also live in a society and as a result it is important to surround ourselves with good people. One unhappy person can sometimes affect a whole group. Since happiness is a key element of overall health, it is very important to establish and maintain healthy and happy connections with the people in our lives. Don’t worry if you don’t have all of these things going on in your life at the moment. Ayurveda gives us many tips and routines to achieve the balance in life that is perfect health. It allows us to connect with nature and our surroundings and gives us great insight into ourselves both physically and mentally. Over the following weeks we will share with you many health tips that you can use to balance your Doshas and improve your health and well-being. Looking forward to sharing many Ayurvedic tips with you soon!
Sam Hari is an Ayurvedic practitioner at West Coast Ayurveda. They specialize in Ayurvedic consultations, along with diet and lifestyle recommendations to help maintain a happy and healthy life. Assistance using traditional Ayurvedic methods to manage many ailments is also available. To find out how this ancient wisdom can help you achieve and maintain optimal health or help manage chronic conditions, visit us online at www.ayurvedichealing.com or call 604.569.3596.
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Three Steps to Effortless
Weight Loss By Lorna R. Vanderhaeghe, MS
erally melts fat. In a 90-day, double-blind, randomized, placebocontrolled study published in 2000 in the Journal of Nutrition, CLA users experienced fat loss with an average weight reduction of seven pounds and an increase in lean muscle. There was a 20 percent decrease in body fat. CLA also stops fat from coming back once dieting stops, research has found. Incredibly, CLA has also been found to help with weight loss even if people don’t change their lifestyle. In June 2009, the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported on 45 postmenopausal women who were obese and had type 2 diabetes. They took 8,000mg of CLA per day with food for 16 weeks. The women were told not to diet or exercise any differently during the trial. The researchers found that CLA significantly reduced the women’s body mass index (BMI) and resulted in a four-pound weight loss. Just think if they would have eaten for fat loss, too!
CLA has also been found to help with weight loss even if people don’t change their lifestyles.
I
f weight loss were as simple as reducing calories and running the treadmill, we would all be thin. There are many factors contributing to our expanding waistlines and that is why diets generally don’t work. Most dieters gain all the weight they have lost and more within 60 days of halting a calorie-reduced diet. Weight loss can be effortless when we adopt a new way of eating and add a couple of nutritional supplements that get to the root of the weight problem. Step 1: Eat Foods that Fight Fat Follow these proven guidelines for easy weight loss with simple changes to your diet: • Eat protein at every meal and eat only protein for breakfast: an egg, a chicken breast, a protein shake or protein powder in yogurt, for example. To make it simple, the piece of protein should be the size of your palm. • Stop eating all white foods: white bread, white pasta, white sugar, white flour and white potatoes. If you have a doughy belly, stop eating all grains, too. Women lose weight fast when they eliminate grains from their diet – sometimes several pounds a week. Grains are starches that convert into sugars. • Don’t drink fruit juice. You would never sit down and eat eight apples at a time, but when you drink a glass of apple juice, you drink the sugar and water of eight apples without the fibre. Fruit juice disrupts blood sugar. • Eat dark green vegetables at lunch and dinner with a palmsized piece of protein. Eat a snack in between and make sure it is protein (like a piece of cheese). Get a large snack bag and fill it every morning with sugar snap peas, broccoli, celery sticks, carrots and more. Eat vegetables throughout the day – your blood sugar will be balanced and you will never feel hungry. • Drink water flavoured with ginger or fresh lemon. Drink herbal teas throughout the day. • Add two clinically researched nutritional supplements to super-charge weight loss and bust belly fat. Step 2: Take CLA with Green Tea Extract Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a fatty acid supplement that lit-
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Another study revealed that participants who took daily green tea extract capsules increased their fat burning without accelerating their heart rate. The capsules safely melted fat away. A 2010 study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition involved 35 obese subjects with metabolic syndrome. (Metabolic syndrome is the name for a group of factors that increase risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes; these factors include a large waistline, low “good” HDL cholesterol, as well as high blood pressure, high triglycerides (blood fats) and high blood sugar levels.) At the end of eight weeks, the green tea group experienced significant decreases in body weight compared to the control group. Do not use decaffeinated green tea as it is the caffeine along with the other constituents of green tea that effectively enhances fat-burning, thus improving fat loss. The combination of CLA and green tea extract are approved by Health Canada for weight loss. Step 3: Combine Your CLA with Chirositol Belly fat is a stubborn problem. No end of sit-ups and crunches make it disappear. We know there is a connection between our expanding waistlines and our hormones. The main hormone contributing to belly fat is insulin. Insulin is a powerful hormone that, in excess, also causes an elevation in circulating male hormones in women, causing male facial hair growth and acne. In men, elevated insulin results in a “beer belly” and breasts. Elevated insulin promotes weight gain, high cholesterol, diabetes and excess belly fat. Skin tags are an early sign of pre-diabetes. Thankfully, busting belly fat and normalizing insulin just got easier. The nutrient Chirositol (pronounced “kur-au-sitol”), researched in over 30 studies at the Virginia Medical School, works for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. Chirositol has also been shown to reduce appetite and improve our happy hormone serotonin, which halts sugar cravings and controls appetite. But where Chirositol really shines is in fighting belly fat in both men and women. Chirositol is available in supplement form under the brand name Glucosmart. Combine the fat burning diet, CLA and green tea extract along with Chirositol, and weight loss will be effortless. Lorna Vanderhaeghe, MS, is Canada’s leading women’s health expert. With degrees in biochemistry and nutrition, she is the author of 11 books including A Smart Women’s Guide to Weight Loss. www.hormonehelp.com
Weight loss backed by Science CLA Plus Melts Fat Away Fast • Melts fat away quickly • Improves energy • Eliminates the beer belly and breasts in men • Enhances your fat burning furnace • For metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance • Works in menopausal women • Up to 7lb weight loss in 90 days with no diet change
Dear Lorna, I combined CLA Plus along with Glucosmart as you suggested and I followed the fabulous eating plan in A Smart Woman’s Guide to Weight Loss and in 2 months I lost 43 pounds. The fat just melted off. I had tried to lose weight before but nothing worked. AM, BC
GLUCOsmart Belly Fat Buster • Over 30 clinical trials at Virginia Medical School • Busts belly fat in men and women • Controls blood sugar • Mimics the action of insulin • Halts skin tags (the earliest warning sign of diabetes)
• Aids weight loss and helps keep it off Dear Lorna, My doctor told me I was heading to diabetes if I did not lose weight. I tried every diet, I ran on the treadmill for an hour everyday but I gained weight. I have been following your advice. 6 weeks on CLA Plus and Glucosmart and I am losing weight. Best of all the belly fat is disappearing. WH, BC
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Habits of Health:
Travel By Dr. Cory Holly
stimulate neurogenesis as we age and provide massive personal pleasure and enjoyment. Happiness is found in the process of doing what we love and enjoy. It ensues in those who are willing and able to take action.
World Travel
M
y first book, Recipe for Health (2002), teaches how to get and stay well. It defines optimal health and describes ten principles essential to its achievement. These include clean air, pure water, fresh juice, whole foods, natural light, physical exercise, personal hygiene, periodic cleansing, adequate rest and sleep, and nutritional supplements. In Habits of Health, I describe seven habits of human behavior that improve and sustain long-term optimal health and wellness. They include world travel, sport, music, personal hobbies, continuing education, nature walks and gardening. Good habits create positive effects; bad habits create negative effects. As creatures of habit, it’s up to us to choose the right ones. Good habits should employ rational thought, improve resistance to disease,
Travel broadens your mind, while staying put deepens it. If you’re constantly on the move, you can’t develop the same relationships with the environment or people that spending years or decades in one location permits. But there is a big wide world out there and it’s incredible to experience and see it with your own eyes. Don’t let it pass you by. There are few things in life that can offer the same intrigue, adventure, mental stimulation, emotional satisfaction and pure awe that world travel provides. Travel helps us discover new things about ourselves and the amazing world around us. Like exercise, travel forces us to adapt and remodel ourselves. In the process, we become more functional and independent. To fully develop our minds we must open them up to new thoughts and ideas. We must routinely compare what we currently know to what is ultimately known as truth.
The Stress of Travel
People who travel frequently are exposed to high levels of mental, emotional and physical stress. That’s why you have to be fearless, flexible and fluent. World travelers must deal with immigration politics, airlines, racial discrimination, certain health risks and even loneliness and heartache. But so be it. The benefits of world travel far outweigh
CHI Camp Hawaii 2012 “aloha a ohe ola nele chi”
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any risk or cost. Travel is a marvelous and incredible investment. I’ve been shot at, stabbed, chased by bandits, deceived by con artists and even jailed by corrupt law enforcement agents. But in spite of these “negative” experiences, I wouldn’t trade the personal growth, adventure and education I gained for anything. I caught the travel bug early in life. At age eight, I received a 12-inch globe of the world for Christmas. I would spin that globe around for hours, dreaming of where I wanted to go and what it would be like. But I had no idea how glorious and different the rest of the world really was. You never really do until you get out there and see it for yourself. At age 19, I decided to leave home by myself and circumnavigate the globe. I knew my destiny was out there. I worked and broke bread with many souls from different cultures in some very strange and exciting places. I met fascinating people with attitudes and values different than mine, visited hundreds of churches, temples and mosques, asked a multitude of questions and paid close attention to the locals. I trained in a thousand gyms and swam in lakes, rivers, oceans and streams. I walked countless miles and hitchhiked across entire continents. I laughed and cried and felt every emotion imaginable. I witnessed many incredible events, but this was my greatest discovery: physically active people who consistently consume highquality, fresh, real food and who live in sanitary conditions with access to clean running water demonstrate the best health. Every key lesson I learned abroad was profound, but the culture shock wasn’t “out there.” It’s was in my homeland. It wasn’t until I ventured out into the “forbidden zone” and returned that I realized how much I had changed and grown from within. First World countries are not the centre of the world. They are not the best, the most progressive or the places where freedom reigns exclusively. Freedom and true health are a state of mind, and although environment and people do play a role in our health and happiness, it’s what’s inside your cerebral cortex that really counts. World travel helps to detoxify, restore and rebuild you from the inside out.
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My First Travel Story
In 1976, I worked in a meat plant to supplement my college tuition. During a lunch break, I heard one of the butchers talking about his recent trip to Hawaii. He beamed with energy and was smiling from ear to ear. I noticed how healthy and happy he looked. “So what’s it’s it like there?” I inquired. “Cory, Hawaii is literally a paradise on earth. The weather is beautiful, the local people are friendly, the food is delicious, the music is great and of course, there’s the wind and the waves, the palm trees, the ocean and the beaches and best of all, those lovely Wahines dressed in bikinis!” I phoned a travel agent. I had enough money, now I needed some time off. I asked my boss and he said no. “Sorry, Cory, I can’t give you any time off. We’re too busy and we need you here.” But it was too late. The seed of desire was planted and had taken root in the soil of my mind. Hawaii was calling. I booked a return flight to Honolulu on Monday and left Friday morning for the long weekend. I was 18. I’ll never forget looking down at Oahu for the first time as we began our descent. There was Pearl Harbor, Waikiki and Diamond Head, Hawaii’s most famous landmark! As I strolled off the plane, I was immediately hit by a wave of warm tropical air filled with the fragrance of Hawaiian flowers. I heard Hawaiian music, saw palm trees swaying in the wind and could feel the rays of the Hawaiian sun beating down on my cold Canadian skin. I was in Hawaii, but it felt like heaven. CHI Camp Hawaii, April 12-14th, 2012. Join Cory & Tracy in Honolulu for workshops, waterfall hikes, volcano treks, beach fitness, Hawaiian style hula & luau and tons of fun in the sun. Register online at CoryHolly.com
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Reversing Summer
Sun Damage
By Katelyn Rousselle
S
ummer may be long gone, but our skin is affected by all that UV exposure well into the darker months of the year. Now is the time to peel away the sun damage we have accumulated, and give back the essential nutrition our skin deserves. Overexposure to ultraviolet radiation results in increased risk of skin cancer, depressed immune system function, damaged DNA, accelerated aging of the skin and irreparable skin damage over time. Sun damage is not always visible since it begins at a deeper level. Acting to prevent that damage from surfacing can help prevent fine lines, wrinkles, unhealthy texture, a dull complexion and hyperpigmentation. The recommended treatments below will help address both the visible signs of sun damage and those that are lurking beneath the surface.
Peels
A chemical peel removes the damaged outer layers of dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. Peels are extremely beneficial for skin that has been damaged by sun exposure. Removing the build-up of dead skin cells and stimulating the regenerative process results in marked improvements in the formation of skin tone and complexion. Chemical peels nowadays blend active natural ingredients with a variety of enzymes and acids that allow peels to be customized to specific skin needs and concerns.
Spin Dermal Roller (SKNSpin.com) exfoliates while also preventing congestion that leads to breakouts. It creates hundreds of tiny microchannels in the skin that significantly increase the absorption of topical nutrients through the epidermis to the dermis, where the cells that create collagen and elastin reside. This micro-injury also leads to the release of epidermal growth factor, or EGF. The production of natural EGF significantly slows when ultraviolet (UV) light is present, hindering the body’s ability to repair itself.
Home Care Support
Having a home skincare routine with the necessary vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants will not only support the skin, but will also repair the damage related to sun exposure. There is significant research showing that most skincare products have a penetration rate of two percent – which means 98 percent of all ingredients are wasted. The solution is choosing a product line that has a delivery system such as liposomal technology, and using the SKN Spin dermal roller. It is extremely important to consider what ingredients are being used in your skincare line; be sure to look for the following key ingredients: •
Vitamin A Infusion
The Vitamin A Infusion Peel delivers potent calming, antibacterial, lightening, and dermal remodelling ingredients that restore the look and health of the skin. Unlike chemical peels that work from the outside layer in, the Vitamin A Infusion Peel works from the deepest layer out. It is highly recommended for skin that has been exposed to UV damage, as it boosts cell turnover rate and results in a healthier, more radiant complexion.
Medical Skin Needling
The latest skin treatment available is called “skin needling.” It’s a form of collagen induction therapy intended to improve the overall health of the skin and thereby reduce UV damage. It reduces the appearance of wrinkles, improves acne scarring and reduces the appearance of pigmentation. Skin needling penetrates the upper layers of skin, creating tiny dermal injuries to the skin. This triggers the body’s natural wound healing response within the skin, producing new collagen and elastin and the release of growth factors in the treatment area.
Home Care Skin Needling
Home care skin needling with a high-quality tool like the SKN
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Vitamin A Serum: Vitamin A promotes healthy cell turnover, while thickening the dermis and regulating oil. Your vitamin A should be in the form of retinaldehyde. This is the strongest form of vitamin A but does not cause irritation and peeling like other retinoids. Plus, unlike retin A, the skin can store retinaldehyde. Your vitamin A serum should be worn nightly, as sun can degrade vitamin A. Antioxidants: Most people think the only way to protect the skin from sun damage is by using an SPF, but antioxidants are just as vital. A primary factor in cell aging is damage to the DNA caused by free radicals. Antioxidants reduce the damage caused by free radicals and allow the skin to rebuild itself. Some potent antioxidants to look for are superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and vitamin C.
To learn more about what you can do to protect, repair and rejuvenate your skin, book a complimentary skin consultation at SKN Holistic Rejuvenation Clinic. Call 604-568-6333 or visit us online at www.SKNClinic.ca.
Katelyn Rousselle is a highly qualified skincare practitioner at the awardwinning SKN Holistic Rejuvenation Clinic in Yaletown. SKN Clinic was founded in 2008 and is the innovative leader in natural skin rejuvenation. Katelyn provides complimentary customized skin consultations. Her latest accreditation is in Skin Revision and Medical Skin Needling. 604-568-6333 or www.SKNClinic.ca.
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OR G A N I C
P L A NE T
Educating Today... For a Better Tomorrow
Feature
Science GREEN GIFTS BY SHELLY LYNN NELLIS
Matters By David Suzuki with contributions from Ian Hanington
Organic Mama: Invasion of the Toys
By Tami Main
Educating Today... For a Better Tomorrow
Science Matters By David Suzuki with contributions from Ian Hanington
O
ur planet is an ever-changing sphere of wonder and mystery. By studying sediments, ice-core samples, trees and fossils, scientists have been able to piece together some of its phenomenal history and evolution. Humans have been here for a relatively short time, our survival and prosperity made possible by the unique conditions that unfolded to create the current balance. Throughout human history, we have been subject to forces of nature, but overall, the Earth has been in a period that has allowed us to flourish. We can’t take that for granted. When we look through a scientific lens, we see amazing hydrologic and carbon cycles, processes such as photosynthesis that allow us to breathe and eat, and so much more. We also see droughts, floods, insect infestations, and mass extinctions that can radically alter the balance of life. A massive release of carbon into the atmosphere can trigger cataclysmic events. It’s something we’re facing now, as we burn fossil fuels as fast as we can dig and suck them out of the ground to keep our homes and cities warm and lighted, and to propel ourselves in machines weighing more than 10 times as much as the often-solo person they are transporting. This is not the first time the Earth has changed in response to carbon overload. Scientists have found that the planet experienced rapid warming about 56 million years ago, long before humans arrived. According to an article in the October 2011 issue of National Geographic, a “massive and geologically sudden release of carbon” during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum, or
PETM, altered the planet’s systems, making it possible for new life forms to appear and thrive, including, eventually, humans. Evidence suggests that the carbon released then was equivalent to the amount that would enter the atmosphere if we burned all the Earth’s reserves of coal, oil and natural gas. The warming effects are believed to have lasted 150,000 years until the carbon was reabsorbed. The main difference between now and then is that we are fuelling the current change, whereas 56 million years ago, it was a natural phenomenon — although scientists are still not entirely sure what caused it. The Earth was experiencing massive tectonic upheavals at the time, which would have sparked volcanic activity, but that only accounts for a relatively minor release of carbon and subsequent small increase in global temperatures, even if a comet impact were added to the mix. The most likely scenario is that the slight warming from those events, or from fluctuations in the Earth’s orbit, caused methane hydrates to melt, releasing massive amounts of methane into the atmosphere. As the National Geographic article points out: “The hypothesis is alarming. Methane in the atmosphere warms the Earth over 20 times more per molecule than carbon dioxide does, then after a decade or two, it oxidizes to CO2 and keeps on warming for a long time.” Methane hydrates are ice-like water molecules that form around a molecule of methane. In cold temperatures and under high pressure, they remain stable. Large deposits lie under the Arctic and the seafloor. Scientists believe the current warming could be
enough to release these extremely potent greenhouse gases. Swedish geologist Birger Schmitz, who has studied the PETM science, told National Geographic that we can either wait to see what the result of such a large release will be, or we can look at what happened 56 million years ago. And what happened then “was a wholesale rearrangement of life.” Why would we undertake such a drastic experiment that threatens the survival of the human species when we have pretty good evidence of what the outcome will be? The main reason is that many of us are not willing to give up our newly acquired luxuries and economic systems regardless of the effects on ourselves, our children, our grandchildren and all other life on the planet. We don’t seem to be willing to slow down the pace of fossil fuel extraction and use while we shift to cleaner energy sources and more rational ways of living within this finite biosphere. We have some tough choices to make. Science increasingly tells us that we must choose wisely and quickly.
David Suzuki is the Chair of the David Suzuki Foundation, and is an award-winning scientist and broadcaster. Dr. Suzuki has received a UNESCO prize for science, a United Nations Environment Program medal and the Order of Canada. Ian Hanington is a David Suzuki Foundation editorial and communications specialist.
Educating Today... For a Better Tomorrow
Green Gifts for
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ooking for unique, eco-friendly gift ideas for the holidays? There are plenty of great ways to consider the planet while completing your holiday shopping list – like buying locally made products to reduce your carbon footprint, or avoiding heavily packaged products. Check out Vista’s favourite green gift ideas for this holiday season!
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The LifeStraw personal water filter, the “Best Invention of 2005” (Time magazine), enables users to drink water safely from contaminated water sources. LifeStraw is ideal for homeowners during emergencies such as local flooding which can contaminate drinking water supplies. LifeStraw, is also ideal for campers and hikers who may be drinking from rivers or lakes and unsure of the water safety. Because LifeStraw is lightweight and compact, it is also great for travelers who do not want to rely on the quality of local water. www.eartheasy.com or Toll-Free: 1-888-451-6752
Pass the Sugar, Baby Bring sexy back to the kitchen with Sugar Baby Aprons – the fun, flirty, stylized new era of aprons for the modern woman. A housewife can certainly be hot, especially wrapped in one of these dress-style glam cover-ups while preparing dinner for family and friends. Kid-sized styles available for your little cupcakes, too. www.sugarbabyaprons.com
Doctor Recommended
Taslie Skin Care Ltd. takes great care to create products that are gentle on the most sensitive skin. All our products are packaged in cute, fun, recyclable & biodegradable packaging.
NEW PRODUCT! ORDER NOW! Head to Toe Wash 210ml is a 3 in 1 product and can be used on the hair, body or as a natural bubble bath. This product is also available in our convenient “Grande” 16 oz refill size.
Taslie Skin Care Ltd. is accredited by Choose Cruelty Free and is a part of Living Safe
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VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 79
www.taslie.com
Adjustable Safety Razor It’s beyond disturbing to think about how many disposable plastic razors are in the world’s landfills, never ever to decompose. And then there are those plastic cartridges, which get popped off refillable plastic handles and are only an iota less polluting. One glance at the regal brushed chrome of this German-made safety razor, and you’ll wonder why anyone would shave with anything less. Not only is it Earth-friendly, it’s absolutely stunning to boot. It comes with one recyclable stainless steel blade that’ll make sure that handsome face never has to stumble over stubble. The blade adjusts to suit personal preference — or just the day of the week, for those who like a smooth workday but a semi-stubbly Saturday and Sunday. The Safety Razor is pleasing to all skin types, from ultra-sensitive to tough-as-nails. www.lifewithoutplastic.com
Educating Today... For a Better Tomorrow
This Holiday Season! Eco-cozy Clothing Luxurious, sophisticated but comfy clothing by Nicole Bridger makes a great holiday gift for your ecoconscious loved ones! Nicole Bridger is a leading eco fashion designer from Vancouver who is garnering international attention for her Earth-friendly clothing line. Using sustainable fabrics from natural and renewable resources combined with low-impact dyes, Bridger employs ethical manufacturing practices each step of the way. www.nicolebridger.com
The Blissology Project is a 6-DVD masterpiece featuring unique and inspirational yoga routines and meditations for every day of the week. Each day has a different theme so all aspects of your mind-body health can flourish. There are longer routines from 45 min to an hour and ‘quickie’ if you are looking to keep your practice time below 30 minutes. Enjoy the individual programs on their own or use it as a part of a 4 week ‘Commit to Bliss’ Program as your daily Yoga and Meditation Practice. $49.99 www.blissology.com
Children’s Sun Moon Stars Cutlery Set Put the universe in your little one’s hands! Children’s Stainless Steel Utensils are delightfully adorned with a smiling moon and sun reclining in a sea of stars. The fork’s blunt tines and the knife’s gently rounded edge are safe for small mouths, and the spoon is generously deep to hold the ideal gulp of cereal, yogurt and everything in between. They are the perfect size for small hands, yet large enough to grow with your child. $19.95 www.lifewithoutplastic.com or 1.888.898.0369 ext.203
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Educating Today... For a Better Tomorrow
Organic Mama
Invasion of the Toys: The “3 Rs” of Children’s Toys By Tami Main
W
ith Christmas just around the corner, the annual invasion of toys is upon us. How are we to cope with the excess toys that are showered upon our little ones during this holiday season? Make recycle, reduce and reuse the goal for your family this holiday season. It is amazing how quickly toys will accumulate and invade every inch of your home. Before my daughter was born, I had no concept of the huge amounts of toys and accessories babies and children seem to come with.
Recycle
Recycle toys by passing them along to younger children in the family or giving them to the local food bank to get your children involved with the Christmas spirit. Giving unwanted toys to less fortunate families is a great lesson to teach your children as well as a way to preserve our environment. Involve your children in this process as they like to feel as if they are contributing and you are not just giving away their toys. Last Christmas, my daughter contributed some of her gently used toys to a less fortunate family in Africa; it made her very happy that she was making these children’s holiday special.
Reduce
Reduce your toy purchases by making better choices for your children and our environment. Rather than purchasing as many toys this year, look at other options for gifts. I often trade in gently used toys to a local shop called Toy Traders, where credits can be used towards new or other gently used toys. Attending events such as toy swaps, which can be found in
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Educating Today... For a Better Tomorrow
your local papers, will reduce your volume of toys and allow you to trade for exciting new items for your children. Try to make the effort to buy locally made, eco-friendly toys, which may contain fewer toxins. Purchasing movie and show gift cards as well as passes for the aquarium and zoo all help keep the clutter of toys to a minimum and are everlasting experiences for your children. These are a fantastic alternative to give during the holiday season as well as birthdays.
Reuse
Reuse by using household items in lieu of purchasing extra gifts this year. Younger babies and children are quite happy playing with items such as measuring and wooden spoons, containers with lids, plastic bowls, pots and pans. Use your imagination around the house to keep children happy and occupied without spending loads of money on excess toys, which children tend to outgrow very quickly. Often the most fun activities include simple things such as making homemade play-dough, water play with measuring cups, mixing mud pies in the garden with kitchen utensils and building snowmen. Consider giving seeds or seedlings as gifts in the spring as children love to help nurture and watch gardens grow, which is a benefit to our Earth as well as your kitchen table.
Tami Main is the director of a skincare company based in Langley, B.C. She specializes in producing natural and organic skincare products for babies and children. Special importance is placed on environmentally friendly packaging solutions. Contact her directly with any queries, questions or comments. She would love to hear from you and welcomes your feedback at taslieskincare@gmail.com or www.taslie. com.
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Editor Selects Editor Selects 1 NEW Ollie’s Happy Hand Sudz is specially formulated to gently cleanse, moisturize and kill harmful bacteria naturally on your little one’s hands. Mild enough for frequent use, it will leave your hands super soft and smooth. Fresh, fruity scent of pink grapefruit essential oil. 295 ml PET Recyclable “Octopus Bottle.” Distributed by Ecotrend. www.taslie.com or 1-800-665-7065.
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Naka’s Nutri OMEGA-3 Pure softgels Discover Nutri OMEGA-3 Pure softgels from Naka! This ultra pure/pharmaceutical grade product is sourced from Norway and features enteric coated softgels that have been thoroughly tested for purity and freshness. These softgels are easy to swallow with no fishy repeat or odour. Trust Nutri OMEGA-3 Pure softgels to provide your daily source of Omega-3 fatty acids to help maintain good cardiovascular and cognitive health. They may also help to reduce the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis in adults. Naka Herbs & Vitamins Ltd. www.nakaherbs.com.
Blue Berry from New Nordic contains blueberry extracts and marigold extracts (10 g of lutein) in the dose recommended by recent studies for maintaining healthy eyesight. Blue Berry is free from sugar, salt, gluten, yeast, soy and dairy products and is formulated without the use of preservatives, flavors or colors of any kind. Blue Berry is developed and manufactured in Sweden by New Nordic. Look for the “Silvertree” logo on the pack -your guarantee for high quality Blue Berry. New Nordic products are distributed through Nutripur Distribution for more information call 1 877 688 7478.
CALLET Tired of shoving your cash and cards in between the back of your phone and the phone case? Annoyed when you don’t have anywhere to put your cash and cards? Then you need the Callet – a new phone case and wallet in one with a newly invented, patent-pending design. The innovative Callet comes customized to fit perfectly on many of the most popular phones, with ultra-convenient slitpockets that can hold your cash and cards. The Callet’s unique design allows for easy access to your personal belongings, specifically engineered to take up minimal space. www.thecallet.com.
Power Up New! 100% natural stimulant free, Power Up! Full dose pre-workout formula with high performance amino acids, power nutrients, lactic acid buffers, hydrating electrolytes, alkalizing nutrients, antioxidants and more. Each ingredient is carefully screened and selected for optimum performance and safety. www.pvlessentials.com.
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Vertigo By Dr. Connie D'Astolfo, DC, PhD (c)
www.vistamagonline.com
R
emember that feeling as a child of spinning around and around in the playground until the point of dizziness, and even when you stopped turning, it seemed like everything around you was still spinning? That’s exactly what it feels like to have vertigo. Vertigo is a common symptom reported by adults during visits to their doctors. The prevalence rate of vertigo is three percent in people under 60 years old, and one in 10 people over the age of 60 years. The recurrence rate averages between 40 and 50 percent within a five-year period. Almost everyone experiences a few seconds of disorientation at some point, but frequent episodes of vertigo –whether lasting only for a few seconds or for days on end – are a primary sign of vestibular dysfunction, especially when linked to changes in head position. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common form of vertigo and is characterized by the sensation of motion initiated by sudden head movements or moving the head in a certain direction. About one in five people who have dizziness will have BPPV. This number increases in the elderly or in at-risk populations. Dizziness is a sensation of light-headedness, faintness or unsteadiness. Unlike dizziness, vertigo has a rotational, spinning component, and is the
Vestibular System 101
The vestibular system includes the parts of the inner ear and brain that process sensory information involved with controlling balance and eye movements. If disease or injury damage these processing areas, vestibular disorders can result. The vestibular apparatus, a series of canals located inside the ear, includes a structure that contains tiny crystals of calcium carbonate. These crystals help the body detect gravity, tilting and speed changes in linear motions like stopping and starting at a traffic light. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) occurs when some of the crystals escape from their normal chamber and get into one or more of the canals. Vertigo symptoms are essentially caused by a confusion of signals to the brain. perception of movement, either of the self or surrounding objects. Disequilibrium simply means unsteadiness, imbalance that is often accompanied by spatial disorientation.
The causes of vertigo are either central, related to the brain or central nervous system, or peripheral, related to the organs of the inner ear. Central causes are associated with the brain itself, such as tumour or stroke, or are related to outside conditions which affect the brain indirectly, like drugs and alcohol. Other disorders which affect the brain indirectly include heart disease and rhythm abnormalities, which interrupt the supply of oxygen to the brain and can cause dizziness. Peripheral Causes of BPPV Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is common in seniors, or following head trauma and motor vehicle accidents. BPPV is characterized by a sense of spinning or vertigo, which occurs with certain movements of the head, and lasts for several seconds or minutes. This is caused by small crystals floating free in the semicircular canals, sending signals of movement to the brain. With age, the function of the inner ear decreases, which can cause problems such as loss of balance, or disequilibrium. This can be complicated by mobility problems such as arthritis, resulting in falls. Good balance relies on three body systems working together: the eyes, the inner ear, and the joints (ankles, knees, hips and neck). Therefore, if one area is under-performing, it can be helped by the other two. Vestibular dysfunction can be caused by infection (labrynthitis, vestibular neuritis Meniere’s Disease), ototoxicity (from medication), barotraumas (such as explosion), vascular insufficiency or acoustic neuroma. The brain receives confusing signals, which can result in symptoms such as nausea or motion sickness. Aging brings its own set of challenges to the vestibular system. In many cases, the underlying cause of a vestibular disorder can’t be determined. Head injury and whiplash are the single most common causes of vestibular disorders in people under 50 years of age. Vertigo is often the presenting symptom in multiple sclerosis. Migraine, a severe form of headache, may also cause vertigo. Complications from diabetes can cause arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) which can lead to lowered blood flow to the brain, causing vertigo symptoms. BPPV Treatment The most common treatment for BPPV, called the Epley Manoeuvre, involves rotating the patient’s head and body through four specific movements at differing speeds, each held for about 30 seconds. The patient’s head and body are manipulated so that the dislodged crys-
BPPV Home Safety Tips
• Get rid of area rugs and anything that may cause you to slip. • Install grab bars and shower seats in the bathroom area. • Sleep in a slightly flexed position (use extra pillows). This will help prevent your head from resting on an angle that further aggravates your condition. • Get in and out of bed very slowly. • Walk as if you have a book on your head. This minimizes head movement and helps avoid moving the crystals. • Avoid rapid movements such as tilting your head forward, upward or sideways.
tals are moved along the canal and drop back into the correct chamber of the inner ear. The treatment is 98.4 percent effective after three treatments. Cognitive deficits such as poor concentration, issues with spatial perception and coordination as well as short-term memory loss are known by clinicians to occur frequently among patients with vestibular abnormalities. Vestibular dysfunction has also been correlated with many disorders including ataxia, low back pain, neck pain, cervico-brachial syndromes, ankle instability, knee instability and osteoarthritis. Medication and nutraceuticals can also aid in the reduction of motion sickness, dizziness and nausea. This may include antihistamines, anticholinergics and benzodiazepines of either a nutraceutical or pharmaceutical approach. Dietary changes may include increasing water intake and less consumption of beverages that contain alcohol and caffeine.
Dr. Connie D’Astolfo, DC, PhD (c) is the director of Spinegroup ®, an integrated med-rehab clinic located in Vaughan, Ontrario. Spinegroup has developed an innovative program with a very high success rate in aiding vestibular rehabilitation including canalith repositioning, training in proprioception, visual acuity, tactility, vestibular system coordination and cognitive based learning skills and dietary counselling. Dr. D’Astolfo is pursuing a PhD at York University. She has several published peer reviewed articles and is a chapter author for a medical text. Her interests include chronic disease prevention and management, spinal disorders and rehabilitation. For more information on Spinegroup’s clinical programs please contact 905-850-SPINE (7746) or visit www.spinegroup.ca.
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Naka’s Nutri TRIM softgels Help to trim down and manage your weight the natural way with Nutri TRIM softgels from Naka. Nutri TRIM softgels feature premium quality CLA and Omega-3 plus green tea extract, pine nut oil, grapefruit and more to help you win the battle of the bulge. Nutri TRIM is specially formulated to help you lose inches, burn away fat and reduce cellulite. So, if you’re looking to keep your body trim and toned then Nutri TRIM is the perfect addition to your supplement routine! Naka Herbs & Vitamins Ltd. www. nakaherbs.com.
Carlson Laboratories launches new liquid vitamin D3 product line: ®Super Daily D3. Carlson Laboratories is proud to announce the launch of its newest product, Super Daily D3 2000 IU. Due to an increased demand for easy-to-take vitamin D3 supplements, Carlson is introducing this innovative liquid supplement. This exciting product is effortless to take, as it provides an entire dosage in just a single highly-concentrated, odor-free and tasteless drop. Super Daily D3 also has 1 IU of natural-source vitamin E, which acts as a natural preservative. Super Daily D3 2000 IU is now available in finer natural health food stores. For more information about this product, go to www.carlsonlabs.com.
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NOW’s new, sugar-free Kid’s Liquid Multi provides optimal levels of essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Helping to develop and maintain the bones, cartilage, teeth and gums of children, adolescents and young adults just got a whole lot easier with the introduction of this great-tasting, wild berry flavoured supplement. www.nowfoods.com.
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Recent studies have shown that many people do not receive enough vitamin D in their daily lives. Our bodies can make vitamin D3, but only when our skin is exposed to sunlight under the proper conditions. This production is dependent on the season, where we live and the time of day. Even using sunscreen drastically reduces the body’s production of vitamin D. Medical studies continue to show the importance of adequate vitamin D intake for good health. Carlson vitamin D soft gels are available in 400 IU and 1000 IU strengths. These easy-to-swallow soft gels are a great way to ensure that you and your loved ones receive the vitamin D you need.
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