A
livlife
GUIDE
TO
H E A LT H
Child Food Allergies and Sensitivities Alzheimer’s - Early Detection
Depression or PMS SPRING
2012
AND
WELLNESS
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1402 Queen St W Alton, On 519 938 8386 LIVLIFE.NET
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I N S P I R AT I O N
welcome to livlife! Let me start by saying, I’m not a naturopathic or medical doctor, or any other expert in the health and wellness field, but I am someone who has been on her own journey in health and wellness which has led to the inspiration for this publication.
Trust me, there were days when struggling to get him to attend school or to even go shopping, that the thought of medicating him crossed my mind; the years of staying with him in the classroom so he wouldn’t run out the door, and the constant phone calls to my husband at work to help me get him out of the car and into school. As his anxiety to attend school would escalate so would his behaviours; most days he was kicking, punching, crying, pulling my hair out, and at one point, he snapped my eyeglasses in half. We are lucky that his teachers and principal have always been so understanding and helpful.
I
A LWAY S WA N T E D TO A D O P T C H I L D R E N , and I can still remember the excitement of receiving the phone message one Sunday afternoon almost 11 years ago; a baby boy had been born. He was healthy and my husband and I could pick him up the very next morning. Our parenting journey had begun.
Our son was quiet, easy to care for, and was easily contented. He was meeting all of his milestones with ease. We first noticed some issues when he was quite young. We took him to an outdoor winter festival when he was a little over one, and after we had just arrived he proceeded to jump out of his wagon, rip his boots, hat and mitts off, and run around in the snow in panic. At the time we thought it was a one-time thing but then the behaviour continued. His cousin still remembers when we went to Centre Island and shortly after we got there, he got out of his stroller, picked it up, threw it around, and started to jump up and down all over the pizza we had just purchased for lunch. We realized his behaviours were escalating and started to seek some help for him. We went through years of seeing counselors, therapists and psychiatrists, each with a slightly different diagnosis, and all genuinely trying to help with the situation. One of the therapists told me that she could no longer work with him; he would never be in a regular school program, and would have to go to a special school where they could deal with children like him. Throughout it all, there was always the pressure of just medicating him. In my mind that was truly a last resort if we got to a point we could no longer cope. They suggested having him labeled autistic. I just wasn’t comfortable with that and never permitted that to happen. During this time we also adopted our second child, a daughter.
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SPRING
2012
Even though it was completely exhausting and some days I wondered just how to cope, we continued to research help and were determined to find a solution without medication. I didn’t want him to learn that when he was stressed to turn to drugs or have the medication take away any of his creativity or emotions by numbing him. His behaviours were escalating outside of school as well. He wouldn’t go to shopping malls or anywhere with crowds of more than six people. He didn’t want to go to family get-togethers. He wouldn’t let me leave the house with or without him. We had to drive on the same roads home or he would have a meltdown, and he had to continually wear the same clothing. We finally had a breakthrough when it was suggested that we take him to see a naturopathic doctor. She did blood and hair testing which revealed he had sensitivities to quite a few items including gluten, eggs and milk, so we changed his diet. After trying several different treatments for his anxiety, we found that Bach Flower Remedy provided him with enough relief for him to cope. It wasn’t an overnight fix, and we still went through several years of coping with his behaviours, but I am thrilled to say that our son, who was always bright, sensitive and very imaginative, has made great strides. He is now in the chimes choir at school, speaks in front of the class, sleeps over at friends’ houses, and can go to crowded areas with very little concern, no medication, no treatments, and no specialized school programs! He has truly been an inspiration to me, as well as my daughter, who is the most confident person I know. They have inspired me to follow my dream of producing this magazine in the hopes that the information provided by our team of experts will help inspire anyone else who is on their own journey of health and wellness. Marion Hodgson, Creative Director/Editor
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[ 10 ] [ 14 ] [ 18 ] [6]
Alzheimer’s Disease - Early Detection
[ 14 ] Teenage Depression or PMS
[8]
Yoga - Helping to Manage Stress
[ 1 8 ] Get Your Bike Out
[ 10 ] Child Food Allergies and Sensitivities
[ 20 ] Something a Little Different in Travel
[ 12 ] Allergies Inspired Eat Local Lifestyle
[ 22 ] A Temporary Reprieve at a Spa
livlife SPRING 2012
C R E AT I V E D I R E C TO R E D I TO R Marion Hodgson
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VO LU M E 1
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ISSUE 1
Livlife is produced 4x a year in spring, summer, fall and winter. 25,000 copies are distributed through health and wellness centres and offices, destination and getaway locations, recreation and fitness centres, specialty retail locations throughout Dufferin, Caledon, Peel and Wellington regions.
CONTRIBUTING E D I TO R S Temine Ash | Kathleen Brown Anne Duggan | Stacey Fokas Kelly Nolan | Alison Parsons Susan Stewart
PUBLISHED BY Type and Images 473286 County Road 11, RR7 Orangeville, On L9W 2Z3 519.940.0192 | marion@livlife.net | livlife.net
I L L U S T R AT I O N Michael Ash | Arnold De Graaff Marion Hodgson
P H OTO G R A P H Y Michael Ash | Temine Ash Simon Burn | Marion Hodgson Mike McColl | Nikkie Tomkins PRINT PRODUCTION Temine Ash COPYEDITING PROOFREADING Corinne Sweetin Thank you to Tom, Jean and Kathleen Hodgson for all their help and support.
LIVLIFE.NET
[5]
early detection
There is much encouragement from Alzheimer’s disease specialists these days to seek medical advice when the earliest signs of change in brain function are noticed. | B Y A N N E D U G G A N [6]
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P H OTO M A R I O N H O D G S O N
Alzheimer’s Disease
W
Repetition and memory loss are easily recognized and are symptomatic of a number of disorders, including Alzheimer’s, but there are other changes which are equally significant, but much more subtle in their presentation. I have been dealing with dementia of the Alzheimer type since my tenth birthday, when my grandparents came to live with us and became my special project. It is a disease which has influenced my career path, my volunteerism, and my constant effort to find ways and means to ease the sufferer and their friends and family; to respectfully leave the clinical research, discoveries, and statistics to specialists; and to focus my attention on the everyday management, human interaction and loving exchange of information which helps ease the fear. In my experience and looking back over many years of direct, personal contact with dementing family members, friends and residents of my care homes, I have consistently noticed some very early changes not commonly mentioned in the literature, but helpful to the doctor as the search for diagnosis begins. One of these very early signs is an occasional vagueness; a gap or a diminished or dampened interest in an event or contact that would usually elicit enthusiasm or anticipation. An example might be a spouse no longer wanting to go to a long-standing date with best friends on a Wednesday night to play cards, laugh, talk, eat and drink; no real reason is given except a vague, “I don’t know, I just don’t feel like it.” Similarly, a veering away from hobbies or talents that have always given joy and fulfillment which now seem of little interest, is a change very hard for others to discern and accept. Another sign, not always obvious, but a critical one in my opinion, is the loss of numeric acuity. Perhaps toting a bridge score or writing a cheque becomes difficult, the price of things becomes muddled, or bills don’t get paid (or paid more than once). Or with complete candor, a person might tell you that they have just given $50,000 to the SPCA, when the actual donation was $50. A person responds to these changes occurring within themself with as many different reactions as there are situations. At first it is almost a light-hearted, “Oh dear, I can’t even add anymore!”, progressing as it continues, to frustration and embarrassment, and eventually, fear. Sadness is also a common response; withdrawal another. Some folks become very angry and defensive and depending on the degree of insight one has, resistive to help from friends or family. I remember my mother, a strong, competent woman, standing at the counter in the bank with silent tears running down her face after completing a transaction. It took some time for me to understand that the process of entering the numbers into the columns in the bankbook had become bewildering and frightening for her and represented all that she feared the most: loss of her independence.
P H OTO N I K K I E TO M K I N S
I T H T H I S T R E N D TO I N T R O D U C E E A R LY A S S E S S M E N T and protocol, a responsible friend or family member is faced with their own questions, “What are some other very early signs of Alzheimer’s disease besides memory loss, and are they any different from just getting old?” “What will the doctor want to know?” “How do I describe these vague signs?”
Sometimes a sense of direction seems to disappear. Sometimes of course, this dear soul has never had a good sense of direction and getting lost was not all that uncommon. Now however, it becomes more important because the person can no longer backtrack and correct their course. An overlay of humour may be introduced as a means to cover the humiliation of not knowing an answer; conversation seems to take on a more superficial characteristic. The processing of information gradually becomes tangled and tasks which once were second nature can result in overwhelming anxiety when pursued. Something to remember is that skills and behaviours are generally speaking, lost in the reverse order from which they were gained. So in this society, people who have mastered the computer within the last decade or so may suddenly want nothing to do with it. Families are often disappointed with this turn of events as they had anticipated Mum or Dad enjoying the family contact; keeping the brain active by joining in on-line games, or researching subjects of special interest. A common thread through this description of early signs of cognitive change is that the signs are often interchangeable with those of depression, medication side effects, circulatory change, alcohol abuse, and many other medical complications, most or all of which can be altered or improved with early medical intervention. People sometimes raise the question, “If I or my spouse is experiencing brain changes, do we really want to know if it’s Alzheimer’s?” The answer is, “Yes, you do.” First, diagnostic tests will identify any treatable condition causing similar symptoms. Secondly, a medical opinion that says, in all likelihood it is an irreversible dementia such as Alzheimer’s, gives you and your loved ones a gift of time in which to plan, draw closer, and benefit from the newest of the prescribed medications which impede the progress of the disease. Any or all of the signs described above or any which worry you, should be discussed with your family physician as soon as possible; be explicit. Visit alzheimersreadingroom.com and alzheimer.ca. Anne Duggan, a retired Registered Nurse with an abiding commitment to the assurance of dignity, confidence and independence for the aging population, is a respected developer of her own care homes on Vancouver Island and, now, the Founder and CEO of Strategic Elder Life Advocacy Inc., bringing comprehensive consultative guidance to those making decisions and transitions in their later years.
LIVLIFE.NET
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YOGA
Helping to Manage Stress for Over
3000 Years B Y S U S A N S T E WA R T
When I completed my Yoga Teacher Training in 1992, I began to teach almost immediately. My program director knew of a vacancy at a studio in my area and I was lucky enough to begin right away. I loved it.
I
F E LT S U C H G R AT I T U D E at being able to teach and share something that I was passionate about. I knew how much my practice had helped me through some of my life’s most difficult challenges.
After four years we moved to a smaller community where I was the rarity, the oddball (but I did not know this, of course). One of my lasting memories was formed as a result of the request that I had made to rent our local facility. My intention was to offer a yoga class in response to the interest expressed by a few of my new neighbours, who were eager to explore the experience of yoga. I can still feel the echo of the shock to my system when I called back a week later to confirm the rental and was informed that I would not be allowed to use the space. When I asked why, it was stated that the guardians of the space had looked up yoga in the dictionary, and had found that it had its roots in Hinduism, and that if I was teaching those classes, I was obviously an ‘evil cult leader’ and they could not rent me the space for those activities. I am not kidding. That was in 1996.
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The thought occurred to me that we had taken a wrong turn and had fallen into a time warp of some kind. I had never before experienced that degree of true ignorance and judgment. It felt threatening to me. I, in my naiveté, attempted to explain that Sheridan College did not offer courses in cult leadership, and on and on; I was unsuccessful in my attempts to inform their point of view. I became extremely stressed by these events, advising my husband that we needed to list our new home for sale immediately, as these people knew where I lived (next door to the facility) and I was certain they did not want me residing in their neighbourhood. He listened to my ranting, offered support, and then suggested that I embrace my yogic practice even more deeply. He reminded me of how yoga had helped me navigate through other distressing life events, such as loss, illness and death in our family. Thankfully, I took his advice. It worked.
After six months, I came out of hiding and set up yoga and meditation classes in a nearby community, which welcomed its benefits and me. Eventually, I even offered classes in our own small community and people actually attended and enjoyed the benefits of yoga. For me, the point of all of this was that I realized that after six months of engaging deeply in my own personal practice, I had gained access to my own inner strength and courage, and was then compelled to get out there and offer the gift of yoga to whoever wanted it. If no one did, that was fine too. But I had to offer it because I knew what the practice could bring to a life.
benefits of yoga and meditation for all sorts of physical, mental, and emotional challenges. I enjoy reading them because it is so very exciting to see yoga and all of its limbs (i.e. meditation, breathwork, postures, etc.) being embraced by the mainstream once again, as it was centuries ago, as a valuable tool that will encourage and support wellness. I am my own proof; you can be yours. Yoga has saved my life a few times; it can do the same for you. Simply practice each day for a few moments at a time. Get a book or a DVD that a friend may have suggested. Take a class with a teacher that you feel a connection with. Just get started. Begin. The invitation is to be mindful about the moments of your life, your movements, your breath, your thoughts, your fears, and your joys. Become your own witness, the observer of your self. This moment, in which you accept the invitation to observe, gives you the blessed opening to reflect and then to respond, rather than react. What a difference that can make. Just imagine. Visit yogauonline.com for a wealth of information.
I learned a lot about myself in those six months and that is one of the things that I love the most about yoga. It works on the physical body of course, but it also works on mind and spirit as well, in the most subtle of ways, even when you are not aware that you need to do some work. It brings out the best in you. Stress does not. Yes, I understand that we all need some level of healthy stress in our lives so that we continue to get up and function, blah, blah, blah. No, I am referring to the kind of soul-destroying stress levels that can create dis-ease in a body. Been there. Was doing that. Almost got the t-shirt.
Susan Stewart has been teaching gentle yoga and meditation for over 20 years and incorporates them into her practice, along with Cranio Sacral Therapy, Reiki and Somato Emotional Release, to assist her clients in creating more balanced lives and achieving their wellness potential, through the release of stress and pain.
Stress can be the not-so-silent killer; it can wreak havoc with blood pressure and other body systems. There have been many recent studies documenting the
LET’S BEGIN
When you become aware that your mind has drifted, gently, without judgment, bring your awareness back home to your breath…always coming home to your breath. Continue in this manner for 5, 10, or 15 minutes, whatever seems right to you. When it is complete, simply notice how you are feeling in that moment. Calmer, more centred and balanced, with a sense of clarity? It may be any, all of the above, or none at all. We all experience yoga and meditation in our own unique ways. Whatever your way is, it will include a slower heart rate and a sense of peacefulness that was not present before you began.
P H OTO N I K K I E TO M K I N S
Sitting comfortably or lying on your mat, allow your eyes to softly close…simply noticing your breath…the going in and the coming out…the going in and the coming out. Feeling it as it moves in through your nostrils, down into your lungs. Notice the expansion, not forcing it, just allowing it, and observing all of the sensations. The coolness as the air enters – the warmth of the exhale.
Congratulations! You have begun.
LIVLIFE.NET
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I L LU ST R AT I O N S M A R I O N H O D G S O N
child food allergies versus
food sensitivities
Food allergies are a common topic of concern among many parents these days, and for good reason given that 6 in every 100 children are affected by food allergies. | B Y D R A L I S O N PA R S O N S , N D Peanut allergies alone affect over 1.3 million Canadians (or 4 in every 100 children), the incidence being highest in children under 3 years of age. Food sensitivities on the other hand, have only been starting to gain exposure. They are highly under-diagnosed, yet can make a dramatic difference in a child’s overall health. There are a couple of reasons for the under-diagnosis of food sensitivities; the first being that many parents do not realize there is a difference between food allergies and food sensitivities, and the second is that the conventional medical community only recognizes and tests for food allergies in children.
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HIS ONE-SIDED TESTING leaves parents in the dark about their children’s potential food sensitivities. For this reason I think it is important to discuss and differentiate between food allergies and food sensitivities in order to provide parents with insight and awareness on this important topic.
Food Allergies Food allergies involve an IgE-mediated immune reaction caused by an immediate (within minutes) reaction to a food. The test for food allergies involves a skin-prick test and/or a blood test, and can be performed by your medical or naturopathic doctor. Food allergy symptoms can include any of the following: itchy skin rash such as hives, tingling of the tongue or throat, constriction of the throat, cough, wheezing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and worst-case scenario anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is the most sudden and severe reaction to a food that can occur; it can involve the skin, lungs, digestive tract and heart, and is a life-threatening medical emergency requiring immediate attention. The most well-known food allergy is the peanut allergy. Most parents are aware of this widespread allergy, either through their own child being affected or through the fact that they are no longer allowed to pack a peanut butter sandwich in their child’s lunch. Why is it that these allergies are becoming so prominent in our society? This is a vast topic that requires an entire article to describe fully, and it will be discussed in a future issue. For now, we need to be sure it’s understood what the difference is between food allergies and sensitivities.
Food Sensitivities Food sensitivities are an IgG-mediated immune response caused by a delayed (24 to 72 hours after ingestion) reaction to a food. The test for food sensitivities is a simple blood test that can be performed by a naturopathic doctor. Because food sensitivities affect an entirely different part of the immune system than food allergies, they produce different symptoms in a child, and require different diagnostic testing and treatment options. Food sensitivity symptoms in a child can be much more subtle than food allergy symptoms, and can include the following: fatigue, lethargy, eczema or other skin rashes, behavioural problems (such as ADHD, hyperactivity and anxiety), upset stomach (and picky eating), bloating, gassiness, bedwetting, dark circles under the eyes, inflammatory conditions (such as asthma and juvenile arthritis), and recurrent infections (especially ear, nose and throat infections). The reason for the vast array of symptoms is in the nature of the immune reaction. Let’s take a closer look at how a reaction plays out.
[ 1 ] Child ingests a food that he/she is sensitive to [ 2] The child’s inflamed gut lining allows this food through only partially digested (food sensitivities as well as other dietary and environmental factors can lead to inflammation of the gut wall over time)
Unfortunately, this is a vicious cycle because as the child continues to consume the offending food(s), their gut wall further weakens and the resulting symptoms increase in number and intensity. In order to stop the cycle and improve a child’s health, food sensitivities need to be identified and eliminated from the diet for a minimum of three months. During this three month time period, it is necessary to not only avoid the offending foods, but to also repair the damage that’s been done to the gut wall. A naturopathic doctor, in addition to providing the test, can recommend the best treatment protocol for each individual child so that the best outcome is achieved. Alison Parsons, Naturopathic Doctor, practices at the Miller Health Centre in Orillia and at Wellpath Clinic in Port Carling. She has a special interest in pregnancy, pediatrics, and gastrointestinal health. She is a mom herself and loves spending quality time with her family in the kitchen preparing healthy meals, and outdoors enjoying an active lifestyle.
[ 3 ] This partially digested food is considered a foreign invader by the child’s immune system [ 4 ] White blood cells (parts of the child’s immune system) rush to surround the offending food particle [ 5 ] Systemic inflammation ensues; this inflammation can then display itself in any number of ways as listed above
LIVLIFE.NET
[11]
How My Daughter’s
food allergies re-inspired My Eat Local Lifestyle E AT F R E S H • E AT LO C A L • E AT H E A LT H Y !
A
N E W M OT H E R 1 2 Y E A R S AG O, I never expected Anastasia to react violently to milk formula at 5 months. She was born all red and blotchy but it cleared in a few days, so we assumed she reacted to something I ate while pregnant. I chose to breast-feed and only to supplement with formula if necessary. However, Anastasia did not sleep well for the first 5 months. Steve and I carried her around late every night as she shed colicky tears of discomfort. Friends suggested it must be something I ate, like onions or cabbage; we thought it would eventually pass.
Self-employed, I fed her throughout the day, but by 5 months it had become tiring and she was constantly hungry, so I supplemented with a casein (milk) formula. She gulped it down quickly and I hoped it would quell her hunger however, within minutes her mouth became red, she vomited, and then slumped lethargically in my lap; Steve and I zipped her to the nearest hospital. Anastasia was quite sick and had hives but seemed to recover over a few hours. They sent us home advising me to try the formula again. Trusting my own instincts I bought soy formula instead, not wanting her to suffer that agony again. Back then few believed that anyone could be allergic to cow’s milk, but she was, and the soy formula gave her relief. As she grew several more allergies appeared: eggs, olives, olive oil, lemons, sulfites, tomatoes, and of course, the dog. My little girl changed our lives regarding food, and this was a good thing!
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B Y S TA C E Y F O K A S
I spent years recreating old recipes, all dairy-free, inventing new ones by trial and error. The big challenge was reading food labels, discovering how many foods contain milk, casein, whey, whey powder, lactose and modified milk ingredients. Food labeling was not as good as it is today; now at least they disclose traces of milk. Her digestive problems made me research and scrutinize everything. I noticed local fresh foods were being overtaken by imports. As a child with severe food allergies she also should not ingest chemicals, fertilizers, and fungicides that may be on imported foods. Outside Canada, farming and associated laws are very different. My experience with Anastasia inspired me to self-publish my cookbook freshalicious narrating my food journeys, including visits to farms, farmers’ markets, producers, and growers to learn more about our local food. Simply put, if we do not support local and organic food production in Canada, we will soon have no local farmers left to grow food for our families. Anastasia’s food allergies prompted me to help others overcome food allergies and lifestyle changes around food, and give those who love great tasting, healthy, dairy-free food, a simple and inspirational way to “eat local!” Dairy-free recipes from Stacey Fokas’ book freshalicious on next page. For more fabulous recipes, visit freshalicious.ca.
wild and scented rice with spinach and portabellas 1 cup brown wild Canadian rice 1 cup scented rice 5 sliced portabella mushrooms 2-3 cups fresh baby spinach sunflower oil, for frying 2-3 cloves of garlic garlic powder, to taste 1 tsp oregano fresh or dried salt and pepper, to taste PREP Serves a family of 4 to 6. Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: Approx. 35-40 minutes. A great side for chicken, quail, pork and beef. Amazing for kids’ lunches.
Add salt, pepper and oregano. Add all the rice, chopped garlic and garlic powder. Fry for a few minutes to bring out the nuttiness in the rice. Add water to cover the rice, by approximately 1 inch. You can add more later if you need to. You may add the spinach now or when the rice is almost cooked. If you add it at this point, the flavours combine better. Simmer on medium heat until the water almost disappears, turn the temperature to low, adding a little water if necessary, cover and let the steam finish cooking the rice.
P H OTO S I M O N B U R N
INGREDIENTS
Fry the mushrooms at a high temperature, turning them until they start to brown in a large frying pan.
kids’ chocolately strawberry stars Preheat oven to 350˚F. 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 cup whole wheat flour 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp ginger 2 cups brown sugar 2 cups water 6 tbsp non-hydrogenated shortening 2 cups cocoa powder 3 eggs 2 tsp vanilla 1/4 cup apple juice 15 strawberries ICING 1-1/2 cups icing sugar 2-4 tbsp sunflower oil 2 tbsp hot water 1 tsp vanilla PREP Makes 12 to 15 stars. Preparation time: 15 minutes. Cooking time: Approx. 20 minutes.
Mix your dry ingredients in one large bowl. Set aside. In a small bowl, beat the eggs. In a large frying pan, add the brown sugar and water and stir on medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. Turn off heat, add the non-hydrogenated shortening and whisk. Once melted, whisk in the cocoa completely and then the beaten eggs. Last but not least, don’t forget to whisk in the vanilla and the apple juice. Pour the chocolate mixture into a large bowl. Then add your dry ingredients and mix completely. Spoon into oil sprayed trays and bake for about 20 minutes or until an inserted knife comes out clean. Cool on wire racks. In a small pot, mix the icing sugar, sunflower oil, hot water and vanilla. Heat and cook for about 5 minutes and set aside to drizzle on cooked cakes. Wash the strawberries in cold salted water, remove stems and slice the berries.
P H OTO M I K E M CCO L L
INGREDIENTS
LIVLIFE.NET
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P H OTO S N I K K I E TO M K I N S
Depression
or PMS?
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Sixteen-year-old Linette complained of irregular cycles, severe cramping, and depression one to two weeks prior to her cycle. She also had difficulty waking up in the morning. B Y K E L LY N O L A N , B S C P H A R M
Symptoms of PMS are related to hormone change. Saliva hormone testing specifically at day 19 to 21 of the menstrual cycle can provide invaluable information and understanding of the cause of PMS symptoms. Saliva testing is a more accurate tool for testing hormone levels, as it tests at a cellular level while our blood is a transport system and not an accurate reflection of hormone levels. Saliva testing provides a baseline level for hormone levels, and a guideline to a treatment plan that includes dosing of either bio-identical hormones or natural detoxification products. Following testing, clients can consider a variety of customized treatment options utilizing bio-identical creams, natural detoxification supplements, or a combination of both.
A
CCORDING TO HER MOTHER, SHE WAS EXTREMELY MOODY, had high sugar cravings and had noticed a recent weight gain around her waist. Linette struggled with severe premenstrual syndrome (or PMS) related to her cycle.
Most girls will suffer from PMS to some degree. While we may think it is normal, there are options and treatment plans available to improve, and in many cases completely alleviate symptoms. Symptoms experienced may include acne, bloating, fatigue, headaches, sore breasts, diarrhea, constipation, sugar cravings, depression, irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating.
Bio-identical creams can be used to supplement low hormone levels. The benefit of using bio-identical creams over synthetic hormones or oral contraceptives is that their chemical structure is identical to our body’s natural hormones. Our body recognizes the creams, and in essence, the creams fit like a “lock and key” to our receptors, with less potential for side effects. Side effects from oral contraceptives may include nausea, headaches, dizziness, breast tenderness, mood swings and blood clots.
Natural detoxification supplements can also be used alone or in combination with the creams. The benefit of detoxification is that the client can address all aspects of their hormone system without side effects. Our environment, the poorer quality of our food, and stress levels are all contributing to hormone imbalance, and young girls are suffering from PMS to a greater degree than in years past.
If your daughter suffers from PMS, consider her treatment options. While birth control pills are used extensively, side effects and long-term use are a grave concern. Most women do not realize that their hormones can be balanced naturally through lifestyle/diet changes and the use of pharmaceuticalgrade detoxification programs. True balance is a cycle with no signs or symptoms.
Kelly Nolan, Pharmacist (UBC, 1987), has extensive training in the highly specialized area of Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRt) and pain management. Partnering her pharmaceutical background with the evolving field of allopathic medicine makes Kelly’s services as an integrative practitioner invaluable.
LIVLIFE.NET
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AND
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[ 16 ]
SPRING
2012
• Customized Artwork for the Home and Garden • Wedding Bombonieres • Corporate Gifts • Specializing in Cremated Remains Memorials Immortalize Your Loved One Forever theartofzed@gmail.com
AND
I L LU ST R AT I O N S A R N O L D D E G R A A F F
D E ST I N AT I O N S G E TAWAYS
get your bike out!
BY TEMINE ASH
Have you ever thought you should just get it out? That bike; the one sitting in the basement or hanging up in the garage.
I
A M T E L L I N G YO U I T ’ S T I M E ; the weather is changing, the days are becoming longer, and people everywhere are filled with that urge to get outside. That’s the beauty of cycling; anyone can get their bike out, have some fun, and maybe burn a few calories in the process.
I recently took a peek in my garage at my poor, forlorn, pink bike. Not just your average pastel pink, it is a vibrant, neon pink that seems to glow in the dark as it hangs upside down from the rafters, almost beckoning me to take it down. I haven’t ridden in years so its vibrancy has been muted by a coating of dust. Normally almost fluorescent in colour, I stand out from over a kilometre away, and from a road safety stand-point, that’s probably a good thing. However, the fact that I have not ridden in a while makes me feel uncomfortable and not quite ready to display my cycling prowess where I can be seen from a two-kilometre radius.
P H OTO M I C H A E L AS H
My husband understanding my trepidation heartens me saying, “It’s a piece of cake. Just keep your balance, push the pedals, and always look where you’re going.” And then he reminds me of the old saying, “It’s like riding a bike; you’ll never forget.” It turns out there is truth to that statement. It’s called muscle memory and the brain is designed to recover, or remember, these memory movements. Well, that’s encouraging.
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So with a new outlook, I gaze at my bikewith-attitude; the bike that was a gift from my husband who thought I liked the colour pink (I do, sort of), and now I am determined that it’s time to get it out!
Realizing my limitations, I decided to seek the help of some experts – my tires are flat and I forget when and why I’m supposed to change gears. I sought the advice of Mike Neilly, a very friendly enthusiast with over 20 years cycling experience from the Caledon Hills Cycling and Nordic Centre in Inglewood. According to Mike, if your bike has been in storage for a long time (or in the garage like mine), it will require a tune up. They cost around $45 and are offered at many bike shops. Mike was able to set my mind at ease, even demonstrating how to change gears.
If you think you may want to take your biking experience to the next level, consider joining a club like the Caledon Cycling Club. This club is specifically for the mountain biker interested in group rides, races and social events. Visit caledoncyclingclub.com. For workshop times and clinics on proper bike maintenance call Caledon Hill’s Cycling or visit caledonhillscycling.com. For Orangeville’s trails, visit orangeville.org/cms/documents/4477/Parks_and_Trails_Map.pdf For trail maps of the Forks of the Credit, Earle Rowe Provincial Park, or Mono Cliffs Provincial Park, visit thehillsofheadwaters.com/earlrowe/mem-documents.php
[ 1 ] HELPFUL TIPS FOR BIKE RIDING
Don’t feel intimidated; just get out there and do it.
I live in the Orangeville-Caledon area where we are fortunate to have extensive trail systems and cycling clubs. It is an area of long views, gorgeous scenery, and photographic opportunities. These trails are free to use, and every one of us could benefit from the experience of what they have to offer.
You must have a CSA approved helmet, and reflective lighting. A bike light is also helpful when riding at night.
Like us, bikes come in all speeds, shapes, and sizes, from comfortable cruisers and hybrids to racers and mountain bikes. There is one out there for everyone and if you’re not sure where to begin, check with one of the dozens of bike shops in our area. They are owned by local enthusiasts, willing to help and assist you with your biking needs.
Carry (and drink) lots of water. The breeze from riding dries perspiration from your skin, so you may not even be aware that you are dehydrating.
Overall biking can be a fun experience whether you go alone or with friends or family. It can be a great shared activity that everyone can enjoy, or simply a way to get out and get some exercise. Either way, just get it out!
Wear layered clothing. You’ll need something breathable that will wick away sweat, as well as something you can easily remove if you become too warm. Gloves and padded shorts are a great idea. Seats can be hard and uncomfortable when riding for the first few times or for long rides. Wear thick, snug-fitting (but not tight) elastics around your ankles to keep your pants away from your chain. Newer bikes tend to not have chain guards.
A tool kit is also a good idea if you are out for long rides. [ 2 ] HELPFUL TIP FOR STREET RIDING
Know the rules of the road, refresh yourself on your hand signals, and scout for routes that have designated bicycle lanes (like Hanson Blvd. in Orangeville). [ 3 ] HELPFUL TIPS FOR TRAIL RIDING
Remember your etiquette; only bike where bikes are welcome, and be careful not to trespass on private property. When you approach other people on the trail, acknowledge your presence (for example, if you are riding on the left, call out, “Rider on the left!”). Having a bell is also helpful to alert hikers (and prevent startling them) on your approach. Be respectful of where you are. Take only photos and leave only bike prints. Pack and carry everything that you bring on to the trail.
LIVLIFE.NET
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Something
BY TEMINE ASH
a Little Different I
P H OTO S T E M I N E AS H
A M S O G R AT E F U L that we live in an age that allows us to explore our glorious planet to our heart’s content. I have been fortunate enough to hike the Canadian Rockies, ski Canada’s beautiful slopes, depart for all-inclusive vacations to any point south, and cruise the oceans blue. But this? This was something a little different.
The shoreline was littered with snorkels, fins and towels. The crashing waves had bathers swimming, jumping, and enjoying themselves all around the rocks and out to sea.
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2012
Overall, cruising is a quality experience with exceptional service that allows you to see a lot of the world without packing and unpacking your suitcase. Cruising with Azamara Club Cruises however, is simply a phenomenal experience. Azamara is not your ordinary cruise line; it is that something a little different you’ve been searching for. Two boutique-like sister ships, aptly named The Journey and The Quest hold up to 694 passengers each. Renowned for their unique itineraries, they are small and personal; ideal for the smallest and most interesting ports. They also stay longer in each port so that you can immerse yourself in the destination, some even overnight. That’s what my husband Mike and I like best about Azamara. You can visit the island in a less stressful atmosphere, without any crowds, and away from the main tourist traps.
I L LU ST R AT I O N S M I C H A E L AS H
If you have cruised before, you may be familiar with others that glance in and out of ports filled with enormous crowds, and while on-board you are nickel-and-dimed for alcohol, shore excursions, bottled water, specialty coffees/tea, etc., not to mention the “Please smile for me now, it won’t take a minute” photographer. With Azamara you don’t have to worry about things like that. Cozy, isolated ports adorned with yachts dotting the waters, complimentary boutique wine served with meals concluded by cappuccinos, lattes, and teas to your heart’s content, and not once will you be bugged for a picture. I was in total Heaven! One early afternoon we embarked in Barbados, a British coral island with soft sand, and warm waters located near the bottom of the Caribbean chain. Our Captain Johannes Tysse, and his crew gave us a warm welcome and a glass of champagne. We knew we were off to a great start when we instantly recognized one of the officers from a previous cruise. Our itinerary took us to Mayreau, Grenadines, St. Lucia (both ports, Soufriere and Castries), St. Barts, Marigot, Saint Martin, Virgin Gorda, and then two final luxurious days at sea before disembarking in Miami. Our ship, The Journey, was re-positioning itself from sailing the Southern Hemisphere of Antarctica through Brazil, and then over to Europe. We felt fortunate we caught this unique itinerary of the West Indies before The Journey’s crossing of the Atlantic.
On the first day of our cruise we tendered just off the island of Mayreau, where we were conveyed by a much smaller vessel through the protected waters of Tobago Cays National Park. We snorkeled off a small island inhabited by iguanas, a protected area where one can swim and snorkel with loggerhead turtles. The warm water was relaxing to snorkel in but I was curious what I would do if I actually bumped into a few turtles. Luckily they were more frightened of me, than I was of them. Later that day we enjoyed Azamara’s signature BBQ on the island, served on china plates. In my opinion, St. Lucia is one of the most beautiful jewels of the Caribbean. We tendered in the bay of Soufriere (French for Smoking Volcano) where we could hear the cacophony of birds long before reaching the island. A lush, tropical rainforest, replete with poisonous snake (called the fer de lance), houses the infamous twin peaks of the island, Petit Piton and Gros Piton. Mike and I agreed to investigate the Pitons further as we had already visited St. Lucia five times prior, and felt it was time to give those mountains a hike. The air was blessedly cooler up there and the stunning panorama simply took our breath away. Hiking down a path to The Baths was a challenge. The area received its unlikely name from the slaves that used the area to bathe in the 18th century. Long ago, enormous granite rocks and boulders were strewn along the hills and shores when the island’s volcano erupted for the first time. A sandy zigzagging trail leads you
around, and in some cases through, massively imposing boulders (roughly the size of houses and cars) and picturesque grottoes. It was a spectacular sight to see. Returning from our adventures on land, the ship’s crew would be waiting at the gangway to welcome us home each night and indeed, it felt like home: from its large library for picking out a good book, to the computer room with wireless for staying in touch. Replete with onboard lecturers, fitness trainers, the spa, sunbathing, swimming, and a whole host of entertainment options to fill your evenings (for example, movies, dancing, etc.); we were left not wanting a thing. Not only was the cruise a great experience, it was also a great value. We received reduced air credit using the Cruiselines Choice Air Program, as well as a reduced stateroom discount and free Internet minutes for having booked a future cruise on our previous sailing. You also notice the value in all the little details, for example: fresh flowers in your room, designer soaps and lotions with a matching room fragrance atomizer, terry robes and slippers, and 24-hr free room service with made to order afternoon tea and pastries. It’s something a little different…leaving you yearning for more. Temine Ash, (Sheridan College Business Administration graduate), owner of Mono Arts & Graphics Printing Ltd. Travel is a passion in her life, whether it is with her family, friends or as a part-time travel consultant at Expedia Cruiseshipscenters. Learning about different sports, people and culture is an important part of Temine's active lifestyle.
LIVLIFE.NET
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a temporary reprieve B Y K AT H L E E N B R O W N
L
O C AT E D I N T H E C E N T R A L REGION OF THE HILLS OF H E A D WAT E R S , it is nestled within scenic rolling hills. Just a short drive from Orangeville along the Hockley Road, you immediately feel like you’ve left the rigors of every day life as you turn into the Resort.
P H OTO S H O C K L E Y VA L L E Y R E S O R T
Bustling with skiers in the winter, the Scottish-style links golf course, renowned gardens, on-site vineyard, hotel facilities, and conference centre ensure the Resort is a hive of activity year round.
I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Spa at the Hockley Valley Resort.
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2012
When you arrive on the third floor, you leave behind the stresses of the week and enter a beautifully laid out 8,000 square foot peaceful and calming Spa whose neutral colours, rich textures, and opulent interior design only add to the experience.
Whole Family Health Ellen Brakel & Joey Lemieux 116 Main Street East, Shelburne
• • • • • • • •
Whole Foods & Snacks Organic & Local Produce Supplements Eco-Friendly Products Books Unique Gifts & Local Art Smoothie Cafe Yoga & Massage Services
New - SHOP ONLINE
519-925-2822 • www.soaringheartwellness.com
MONARCH MENTORING
I was greeted warmly at reception and then escorted to the ladies’ changing area where I was provided with a locker, and a sumptuous robe and footwear. The treatment room was warm and subtly lit, and I was very pleased to find that the massage table was heated also. The massage therapist was friendly and explained the treatment to me before beginning. I had ordered the Head, Hands and Feet Treatment, which included a neck and scalp massage, hand massage and foot treatment. The foot massage entailed a hot rock stone massage and exfoliating scrub. The oils they used were very pleasant and not overpowering, and the deft hands of the therapist left me feeling relaxed and comfortable.
Arts Based Workshops and Mindful Living Strategies to Enhance Your Life Michele Johnston monarchmentoring.wordpress.com monarchmentoring@gmail.com
519-939-9973 Orangeville, On
You can easily spend an entire day relaxing at the Spa: chatting with friends in between treatments, relaxing in the beautiful lounge, enjoying the breathtaking scenery from the balconies, lunching in the cozy restaurant, and all the while, still enjoying the comfort of the luxurious bathrobes. After your time at the Spa, enjoy luxuriating in the saltwater pools (both indoor and outdoor, in season) and lunching poolside. The knowledgeable staff were pleasant and courteous and were happy to provide me with additional information (like checking on-line regularly for upcoming specials). The Spa itself was warm and inviting with comparable prices. Overall I was exceedingly impressed with my spa day experience and recommend the Hockley Valley Resort to anyone who feels the need to escape, even if only for a few hours.
LIVLIFE.NET
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A
livlife
GUIDE
TO
H E A LT H
AND
WELLNESS
SUMMER IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER R E A D A B O U T Infertility, Living with Chronic Pain, Anti-Aging Naturally, Nutrition and Physical Vitality, Meet Your Local Wellness Provider, continuing editorial in a series on Food Allergies and Sensitivities, and Alzheimer’s Disease plus our unique Destinations and Getaways section in each issue. It’s about your health, it’s about your wellness and your journey to livlife. Q UA L I T Y E D I TO R I A L | Q UA L I T Y D E S I G N | Q UA L I T Y P R I N T I N G
For advertising information, please contact 519.940.0192 | marion@livlife.net For the summer issue, please call by June 22, 2012.
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