Dr. Sara Ip, Naturopathic Doctor
1553 Hurontario St L5G 3H7 Mississauga, ON, Canada

Feeling anxious, low energy, heartburn, thyroid problems and frequent headaches may all be signs you’re deficient in magnesium! Magnesium is the most important mineral and electrolyte for your metabolism. The recommended daily amount required for adult females is 300mg/day and for adults males is 400mg/day. Magnesium is crucial because it:... Helps to regulate genetic expression of obesity genes, and keeps inflammation and metabolic pathways in check. It is an essential mineral in maintaining a healthy weight. Lower levels of magnesium in blood, show a rise in levels of insulin & glucose which contribute to abdominal fat deposition and increased inflammation. Magnesium is involved in over 500 enzymatic reactions in the body and is needed to metabolize proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Optimize your magnesium stores by: * Increasing your dark green leafy vegetables intake at each meal * Reducing sugars from your diet * Including a daily mindfulness practice to lower anxiety and stress * Cutting caffeine + alcohol consumption which all deplete magnesium stores. * Taking a magnesium supplement A magnesium deficiency may be the reason you are experiencing metabolic issues and getting an adequate amount for your body through diet or through supplementation may improve your overall health! Follow @drbarbwoegerer for more amazing posts on magnesium & save/share this educational post for reference!

Have you ever wondered if your vitamin levels are low? In North America a majority of the population is nutrient deficient and we are seeing more anxiety, fatigue, digestive concerns and an increase in chronic diseases! A stressful lifestyle, a conventional diet (high sugar, processed foods, low vegetable intake), and substances like caffeine, alcohol, and smoking are common reasons why vitamin levels are so low!... Here are some of the vitamins you need to pay attention to! 1. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) - for nervous health, memory, mood, energy and brain power. 2. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) - for immune, adrenal and skin support. 3. Vitamin D (Calciferol) - for immune, mood, energy, and bone health. 4. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) - for neurological function, cognition, mood and energy. 5. Vitamin B9 (Folate) - for energy, oxygenation of cells, and hemoglobin production. While a well-rounded diet can help provide these vitamins, diet may not enough. Your body may need some added lifestyle support to feel healthy Eat green leafy vegetables at 50-70% of your diet to obtain four of the five vitamins above: vitamin B12, vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B9. Limit sugar/carbohydrate intake to less than 25g-35g based on your weight and other health factors. Refined sugars are known to deplete vitamin stores. Consider taking a high quality multi-mineral to support detoxification, improve organ health and increase energy levels. Buy organic to maximize your nutrient intake. Specific laboratory testing can be done with a naturopathic doctor or health care provider as well to assess your nutrient status for specific vitamins, minerals and amino acids! Be sure to save/share & follow along for more informative posts on metabolic health!

January is thyroid awareness month! & your thyroid gland is the control centre of your metabolism and an over and under active thyroid can be the reason you have: difficulty losing weight despite exercise... chronic fatigue constipation and/or reflux low mood or depression dry skin, brittle/thinning hair and or brittle nails heavy and/or irregular menstrual cycles and infertility The thyroid gland is considered to be problematic when your thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels are over 4 or under 0.35 IU/ml. We now know an optimal level is seen to be a TSH below 2.5. This is only one thyroid hormone to be a looked at! A normal TSH, is one of MANY thyroid markers your health care provider should be assessing. How to check thyroid health: 1. A comprehensive thyroid panel looking at the following thyroid markers: TSH, Free T3, Free T4, rT3, Thyroglobulin, Anti-thyroglobulin, TPO, Thyrotropin Receptor AB, Thyroperoxidase 2. Baseline blood work to assess iron levels, cholesterol levels, vitamin D status, selenium, zinc and iodine status 3. A review of your list of medications and exposures to heavy metals, smoke, alcohol and radiation 4. Assessment of viral antibody markers Comprehensive testing can pinpoint if your thyroid function is off and WHERE this is happening in your body, targeting appropriate treatment to the correct area which can include a mix of dietary changes, herbs, vitamins and removal of contributing factors related to autoimmunity. If you’re struggling with any of these issues and you’re looking for a deeper holistic approach to healing and reside in the province of Ontario, feel free to DM me with any questions, or to book an appointment see link in bio!

Merry Christmas Eve and happy holidays! The clinic is now closed and reopens on December 28th & 30th. Naturopathic medicine is an essential service and will continue to remain open during the province-wide lockdown to service new and existing patients. Virtual appointments are available for patients who cannot do in-person. ... Sending love, light and hope out to everyone this Christmas + into the new year, counting all the blessings and silver linings, thankful for every part of the journey.

Healing happens when you’re able to move through the patterns, the pain and the story and come to new realizations about yourself. This process mirrors the natural cycle of birth, death and rebirth; and like the Phoenix we must let go of who we believe ourselves to be, in order to emerge anew. Cheering on those who are transcending a mindset that no longer serves them!

Have you heard the Candida word buzzing around and are you wondering what it is?! Also known as the unwanted "Yeast or Fungal" infection, Candida overgrowth can take place everywhere in the body On the scalp: candida can be a contributing factor to psoriasis or dandruff... On finger/toe nails: fungal overgrowth can be a cause of brittle or discoloured nails On skin: candida may present as dry skin, eczema or psoriasis In the gut: yeast imbalances can contribute to weight gain and digestive concerns In the urinary bladder: candida may be a cause of recurrent urinary tract infections In the oral cavity: candida may be seen as a thick white coat or found in the posterior throat, known as "thrush". Botanical herbs can be impactful at treating various forms of candidal infections, and the following herbs have anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties included here for your reference : 1. Pau D'arco 2. Grapefruit Seed Extract 3. Tea tree oil 4. Black Walnut 5. Olive Leaf Extract Individualized dietary modifications like removal of food allergens and the addition of certain nutrients like selenium, zinc and capryllic acid may also be helpful and indicated in yeast infections. Candida can be a stubborn pathogen but there are many natural approaches to rebalancing the body. *It's important to consult your health care practitioner regarding a formal diagnosis and treatment options. I am a doctor, but I am not your doctor and it's important to make sure this is safe and effective for you! Save/share this educational post with others!

PCOS is a sign of an overt metabolic disorder & in lieu of September’s #PCOSawarenessmonth & to kick off #womenshealthweek2020 I wanted to mention this condition because so many people struggle with it! Some reasons for PCOS include: elevated inflammation... high levels of androgens insulin resistance stressful events or major life changes thyroid imbalances fat storage versus ovulation Every woman is different and often times, will not have all of the symptoms of PCOS, this is because the cause for PCOS can vary. It’s important investigate why hormonal imbalances exist in order to administer the proper treatment. Tests that provide accurate assessment for PCOS & metabolic dysfunction include: * Hemoglobin A1C * Thyroid panel * Free Testosterone * Total Testosterone * Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) * Oral gluocose tolerance test with Insulin Start with: 1. Tracking your symptoms and cycle 2. Balancing major life stressors 3. Testing hormone levels to determine causation Real healing delves beyond symptomatic relief and is an individualized process. While some treatments may provide temporary relief, it’s so important to investigate your health history, look into comprehensive lab testing, personalize your nutrition, and address the lifestyle components that contribute to your systemic health. Save/Share this very important post with someone who needs to read this!

Find me at the Health Annex in Toronto, at Spadina & Bloor! Now accepting new patients! Online booking link: https://drsaraip.janeapp.com...

How often you eat can improve OR worsen your digestion & metabolic health! Weight, digestion and metabolism are three of the most common health concerns patients present with, which has risen significantly in the last decade, a main culprit for this is meal timing! Learning when to eat for your biology is so important because :... * Bloating/gas * Heartburn (acid reflux) * H. Pylori infections * Stomach/Duodenal ulcers * Constipation * Weight gain * Hormonal imbalances * Digestive disorders (SIBO/IBS/IBD) etc. , - & ’ : The migrating motor complex (MMC) of the small intestine moves food out into the colon and this process takes a total of 4-5 hrs from the time food is eaten. Both the stomach and the small intestine have opposing functions. It is important we give our bodies the right messaging because if we eat before the 4-5 hour timeframe, we restart acid production in the stomach and shut down bicarbonate production in the small intestine and the movement of food into the colon. Food left stagnant allows bacteria to start fermentation in organ areas, where it should not. Bacteria can then begin to reproduce and migrate up the digestive tract into the stomach and oral tract, or into the blood stream creating an overall weaker immune system. : 1 Space out your meals every 4-5 hours. 2 Limit snacking, unless this is used to tide you over until your next meal ~4hrs later. 3 If you are having dessert, eat this immediately at the end of a meal. The body CAN and SHOULD be able to fast for a period of 4-5 hrs if there are no other underlying health conditions. Happy, healthy eating! <3 Like/Share/Tag a friend who needs to read important educational post! See more

Healing is both passive & active. It is a calling to transform into our highest selves, and it is a voluntary act of respect for the body, mind & soul. : To heal is to address instead of to suppress. ... Healing is letting go of beliefs that no longer serve us, it humbles. True healing actively adopts new ways of thinking, doing and being. : Healing takes faith and courage. It takes commitment to a mindset and lifestyle. It asks for dedication to truth and to self-love. May healing always find you See more

! *MASSIVE GIVEAWAY* To celebrate my Toronto Spadina & Bloor location clinic location opening on September 1st, I’ll be giving away a SELF-LOVE basket with items I hand-picked myself, for your self-care! xo... Featuring: A complimentary initial or follow-up naturopathic consultation with Dr. Sara Ip, ND (Valued up-to: $255) A tree agate gemstone bracelet: stone of inner peace, clears energy blocks, connects to earth energies, improves confidence and self-esteem, with green Swarovski crystals, hand-crafted by @foxybirchmuskoka Sassy Zazubean coconut milk raspberry dark chocolate bar for the soul Love-themed bath bombs: rosewater, jasmine & garden & sweet honey almond! Acure clean beauty seriously soothing masks for your skin Harmony organic matcha sachets A Big Dipper Wax Works Rapture natural candle Cloud 9 vegan & gluten-free chocolate chip cookie mix Liberty organic hemp & cotton antimicrobial reusable face mask Happy Hand Sanitizer spray with 80% alcohol & all-natural, for on-the-go! To enter to win the Self-love basket you must: 1. Like this post & follow me @drsaraip 2. Tag 2 friends who would love this self-love basket 3. Comment & share one thing you love about yourself! - I love my desire for learning! 4. Bonus: Win an additional 3 entries if you share this post to your story! Total value: $500 The contest starts today and ends September 6th at midnight EST. The selected winner will be randomly chosen and announced on September 7th, 2020. . Best of luck! <3 <3 @ Toronto, Ontario See more

& ! & Yet Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common deficiencies found in patients. Here’s why you need this vitamin...... Vitamin D regulates inflammation in your gut (microbiome) Vitamin D levels influence autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions Vitamin D improves your bone density, skin turnover and hair growth Vitamin D supports your immune function Vitamin D is necessary for thyroid hormone production Vitamin D helps with mood disorders Why are most of us deficient in this very important vitamin? GUT INFLAMMATION Vitamin D is absorbed in the small intestine and inflammation can impact this fat-soluble vitamin’s absorption! CHRONIC INFECTIONS Viral infections and other pathogens will deplete levels of Vitamin D in your body along with preventing proper absorption and metabolism of this important nutrient! SUN EXPOSURE UV rays from the sun are needed for vitamin D production, and low levels of sunlight, regional latitude (i.e if you live anywhere in Canada), daylight hours, sunscreen use, darker skin pigmentation, may be contributing factors to low Vitamins D levels. LIVER, KIDNEY & GALLBLADDER HEALTH Your liver and kidney convert vitamin D into the active form and the under-functioning of these organs will prevent the proper conversion! Gallbladder secretion of bile acids are required for vitamin D transport and if there is bile congestion, this can lead to the malabsorption of Vitamin D. ALCOHOL & SMOKING Smoking decreases the absorption of all fat-soluble vitamins, especially Vitamin D. Alcohol intake affects liver enzymes and subsequent conversion and metabolism of vitamin D in the body. So what are healthy Vitamin D levels? Blood values range from 75-250 nmol/L and any levels under 75 nmol/L are considered to be deficient. Aim for optimal levels around the 150 nmol/L mark! Save/share this post for reference! See more

These little buggers know how to evade the immune system, and believe it or not, they're quite commonly found in North America! Here are several ways you may have been exposed to parasites: Low stomach acid... A weak immune system Proton-pump-inhibitors or anti-acids Sushi, raw steaks, raw oysters Undercooked fish, poultry or meat Recent travel abroad Camping or unsanitary water intake In many countries people take anti-parasitics to protect themselves from infection, however in the western world, we don't really think of parasitic infections, when it comes to our health! In fact, it's a common but hidden cause for many immune conditions! While a healthy immune system can help to keep these pathogens at bay, the reality is most of our immune systems are not working optimally! Here are some laboratory tests that can be done through a naturopathic doctor to identify if parasites are the cause of your health concerns: Ova & stool testing DNA stool testing Comprehensive parasitology testing Blood smear testing If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be parasites that are the underlying cause! Save this checklist to refer to if you're ever in doubt! #gutweek2020 @drrenatazambo @dr.bryant

= ! Your gut absorbs, stores and utilizes your vitamins & minerals and is the heart of your metabolism. The gastrointestinal tract contains ~500-1000 bacterial species & the 2 divisions of bacteria: Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes account for over 90% of them. The right ratio between these two divisions can influence your immune state, metabolism and health conditions!... What can a healthy gut population impact Weight distribution, energy levels, thyroid function, blood sugar levels, hormone output, mood, skin and circulation! WHY YOUR GUT MAY BE OFF ANTIBIOTIC EXPOSURE: Besides taking antibiotics for infections, more and more we're seeing increased exposures to antibiotics in our water supply, animal food supply, soaps and skin products. The over-use of antibiotics harms the healthy bacterial strains in our body which make up our immune system. A WESTERN DIET: A high-fat, high-sugar diet was seen in animal studies to contain higher bacterial strains of Firmicutes numbers in obese mice. However a plant-rich diet was shown to contain more Bacteroidetes species in lean mice. Diet is one of the most important controllable factors when it comes to having the right bacterial flora for your gut. ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES: Pesticides, xenohormones, artificial scents, alcohol intake, plastics in the food and water supply, the off-gassing of household chemicals, increased radiation from technological output all affect our microbial composition! Adopt a green lifestyle by reducing exposures to harmful compounds, buying organic when possible and swapping artificial products for the real version! When you love your gut, you improve your bacterial composition, increase nutrient absorption and storage, improve energy levels, restore metabolic function, and the immune system functions most optimally! Save/Share this educational post! PMID: 22367888 See more

! If your liver isn't working optimally this will show in your: skin, immunity, energy, vision, digestion, weight and metabolism! The liver is a fundamental detox organ that processes toxins, fats, sugar, hormones, plastics, pesticides, pollution and all things harmful that you are exposed to! It inactivates and detoxifies harmful compounds in the body. ... The liver does this through a process called biotransformation, in 2 phases: Phase 1: oxidative reactions use enzymes in the body i.e. cytochrome P450 to break down toxins into small compounds called metabolites. Phase 2: conjugation reactions make toxins water-soluble and ready for excretion in urine and stool. : Boost Antioxidants - a diet high in antioxidants like fruits and vegetables can work to increase Phase 2 which will help to reduce any inflammation and oxidative damage from the breakdown of toxins in Phase 1. Improve Excretion - If excretion isn’t optimal, toxins stay in your colon and the bacteria will reactivate them, this is called enterohepatic recycling. The harmful toxins then go back to the liver and then to your organs, making you unwell. To avoid this, be sure to drink an adequate amount of water daily at half your body weight (lbs) in ounces and consume a minimum of 30-40g of fibre per day to optimize your bowel movements. Reduce Exposures - Decreasing your sugars, caffeine intake, plastic use, alcohol consumption, and pesticide exposure can decrease the burden of Phase 1 on the liver and help to restore the proper function of your liver and metabolism. Live(r) long & prosper! Save or Tag someone who needs this important information! See more

, ! While it's been mentioned countless of times that athletes, business gurus and philanthropists all utilize visualizations to improve health, finances and career outcomes, how many people do you know who actually practice this on a daily basis? The truth is, most of my new patients have never heard about employing visualizations for their health goals, and yet, visualizations can be extremely effec...tive in achieving weight, metabolism, and body composition outcomes. Over time, I have found that adding this short activity to a patient's treatment has brought breakthroughs in progress, and additionally helped to address mental blocks to healing. , : Employing your neural brain networks by the process of envisioning can regulate your output of neurotransmitters Visualizations can modify hormonal secretion, appetite regulation, and cell division A daily visualization practice can boost motivation, concentration and optimism How to 'Visualize' 1. Close your eyes and imagine you have attained your set goal. 2. Feel the emotions of what that experience would be like i.e. ecstatic, grateful, happy etc. 3. Engage all 5 senses in your visualizations: smell, sight, taste, touch and sound. Experience what this reality would feel like for you in your mind and body. 4. Practice daily. Seeing is more than believing, it is creating a new possibilities for your life! It is an excellent tool that is not to be overlooked when it comes to your health and metabolism! Like this post and leave a comment if visualizations have helped you along! See more

Plants grow where they are needed, said every great herbalist. They in fact do! And in today’s technological world, our productivity, performance, and energy requirements have increased and the demands on our metabolic health have become immense. When it comes to high stress, fatigue and low immunity, herbs can be a natural support for the body and mind. Herbs supply energy and support our biochemistry by:... reducing free radical stress regulating white and red blood cell production supplying potent antioxidants decreasing inflammation supporting immune function and so much more! Here are my top 5 herbal adaptogens when it comes to energy and the active constituents that make them beneficial! The top 5 herbs for energy: 1 Ashwaghanda/Withania Somifera: Withanolides are the active ingredients in Ashwaghanda that help to reduce chronic stress, support brain function, cognition, energy and immunity. 2 Rhodiola/Rhodiola Rosea: Rosavin compounds are the main constituents that adapt the body to physical, chemical and environmental stressors, helpful for anxiety and fatigue. 3 Holy Basil (Tulsi)/Ocimum Sanctum: Eugenol is the primary constituent that work in balancing neurological stress and supporting immunity and overall energy. 4 Siberian Ginseng/Eleuthrococcus Senticosus: Eleutherosides are the active components used to improve physical performance, energy and indicated for physical and mental fatigue. 5 Korean Ginseng/Panax Ginseng: Ginsenosides are the main ingredient to help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce anxiety and support cognition. Look for the total amount of the active constituent rather than the total quantity of the herb. The total quantity listed may just be the total amount of crushed herb and not the active extract which is the clinically beneficial component! Please consult your naturopathic doctor or qualified health care practitioner trained in herbal medicine AND pharmacology before starting any new supplement or herbal regime. Save this post and share this with someone who loves the healing power of plants! See more

Does how you feel about yourself, change how you live your life? I know a lot of people will change their lives around how they feel in their bodies, in any given moment. Body image can prevent people from wearing certain clothing, attempting new activities or socializing in groups of people! And while it's important to feel safe and secure, it's also important to ask the hard questions, and delve into what it is that makes you uncomfortable in your own skin. ... Is it the fear of judgement? Feeling undeserving? Waiting until everything is perfect? As you explore your core beliefs, you will discover opportunities for change and inner growth. : Connect anyway, and affirm all of the positives from your experience. Accept where you are at any given moment, while continuing to work towards your goals. , ’ Recognize with gratitude, the health you do have and the wisdom to be gained at any given moment. Don’t let your insecurities hold you back from living a full life. You are loved, and you are beautiful, show up and allow yourself to experience the most meaningful moments in this life. See more

Better body, better life! Your weight retention could be fat, bloat, or a mix of both! It is important to know your body's language by its presenting symptoms. While fat and bloat may look similar, they are very different metabolic processes in the body, and are commonly confused with one another!... () Indicative of inflammation in the abdomen and upon a physical exam will be swollen, painful and sometimes warm to touch. Bloat may be due to constipation, food allergies or sensitivities, hormonal dysregulation or pathogenic causes like bad bacteria, parasites, viruses and yeast. Resolves after the infection or offending substance has cleared the body. ( ) Adipose tissue will be flabby in texture and soft to touch and is a storage form of excess energy consumed. Subcutaneous fat (the fat we see and feel) serves a protective function in the body, by storing pesticides, toxins, heavy metals and excess hormones to protect our organs from harm. Excess adiposity can be a sign of an underlying metabolic disease. Knowing your body composition and working to reduce inflammation and managing a healthy body fat % is the start to feeling more energy, decreased pain and added presence in your life! Save/Share this post the next time you're unsure if you're bloated or simply gaining weight! See more

Do you know how important food boundaries are? Boundaries help us value our goals but also enjoy the important moments with loved ones! Your relationship with food doesn't have to be all-or-nothing.... You probably don't think I eat gluten, dairy, sugar, fast food etc. but I do! I take these things into consideration limit how much limit how often listen to body cues Balance is the key to happiness, but most people don't know what this healthy balance is! Here’s how you can build those boundaries: 1 Have one allowance at a time i.e. Sugar but skip the alcohol! 2 Space it out i.e. Stick to 1 or 2 allowances per week, or every other week! 3 Read your body cues i.e. If you feel bloated the next day, take a break for at least 2 weeks to allow inflammation to diminish. 4 Listen to hunger cues i.e. if you're full, stop eating, and if you're not hungry, don't begin to eat! 5 Savour the moment - completely savouring the moment can properly signal to your brain your food intake, and appropriately reduce further cravings. Give me a if you’re working on setting food boundaries! @ Mississauga, Ontario

The majority of Canadians are deficient in FIBRE! Why you should be eating more Fibre FIBRE SUPPORTS ORGAN DETOXIFICATION... Most of your organs depend on fibre to work optimally - Your liver, adrenal glands and reproductive organs, produce cholesterol and your colon will use fibre to eliminate cholesterol-based hormones, in excess from the body. Without the proper amount of fibre intake, your hormone ratios can become imbalanced and energy and weight will be affected! FIBRE BINDS TOXINS TO YOUR STOOL Most people assume that if you pass stool daily, you are eliminating toxins, this is not true! If you aren't getting enough fibre content into your system, you will not bind the various toxins (xenobiotics, xenoestrogens, pesticides, etc.) for elimination. Fibre is the GLUE that binds toxins to your bowels. If toxins are not bound, they reabsorb in the intestines, recirculate in your blood stream, and deposit in your organ tissues. FIBRE INCREASES CALORIC METABOLISM Research has shown for decades that eating foods rich in fibre can stabilize blood sugars, keep your full longer and reduce belly fat. This is attributed to the increase in thermogenesis, which is a caloric burning process your body undergoes to digest these foods! : Add a green leafy vegetable to every meal (including breakfast!) Make fruit, your dessert of choice Swap processed and refined cereals, with natural oats Only -% of Canadians meet their daily fibre requirements. The goal for adults, is to get your intake /! Hope you enjoyed this educational post and happy to answer any questions you have about this in the comments below! See more

Do you have energy dips throughout your day? This is a common concern I hear from new patients. It starts with your NUTRIENT STATUS. The most common nutrient deficiencies I see in private practice are: Vitamin B12: fatigue, shortness of breath, muscle weakness, neurological numbness or pain... Iron: fatigue, shortness of breath, muscle weakness, neurological burning, numbness or tingling sensations Vitamin D: fatigue, low immunity, depression, frequent colds and infections, skin issues Magnesium: fatigue, constipation, thyroid problems, difficulty losing weight, insomnia, anxiety, depression, PMS Vitamin B6: fatigue, nervousness, anxiety, depression, PMS Zinc: fatigue, low immunity, slow wound healing, frequent colds and infections, thyroid problems Selenium: fatigue, low immunity, thyroid problems, muscle weakness, brain fog This is mostly because of YOUR lifestyle factors! : Drink coffee Frequently exercise Take medications: I.e. birth control, SSRIs, PPIs, NSAIDs, statins etc. Drink alcohol or smoke Eat a diet high in sugar Drink pop/soda Eat a diet low in dark leafy vegetables Drink 'energy' drinks Have a chronic disease & ! 1) Eat a minimum 5-10 servings of vegetables per day, 1 serving is equivalent to 1/2 a cup of cooked vegetables. This is your multivitamin! 2) Cut back on nutrient and mineral depleting substances like sugary foods, alcohol, caffeine, and energy drinks! 3) Take a good quality multivitamin + multimineral under the recommendation of your health care provider, especially if you are taking other supplements or medications. 4) Get lab testing done for pathogens like bad bacteria, candida, mold and parasites which may be depleting and preventing proper absorption of your nutrients and minerals! You should not be feeling "unrefreshed, tired, exhausted, burnt out or drained"! Nutrient deficiencies may be why your energy and metabolic levels are not optimal! Save/Share this educational post with a friend or loved one! See more

In my practice each patient is seen as an individual, together we go over their health goals, familial risk factors, past medical histories, medications/supplements, surgeries/hospitalizations, social histories, environmental factors, stressors, mental/emotional factors, nutritional needs and lifestyle factors. & each treatment is personalized to the patient.

Presence can change your quality of life! Sometimes when we find ourselves stuck in the past, we don't let ourselves move past negative experiences and we are afraid the past will repeat itself. Presence is a state of mind that observes the current situation in the existing moment without bringing in our past experiences or future projections.... When we are future focused, this can bring on fear and anxiety and a lot of this is rooted in the imagination, rather than in reality. Take a moment to step back from your thoughts and observe if they are rooted in the past, present or in the future. Ask yourself if this is your current reality or part of your past that you need to let go of. How have you grown since your past experience? What did you learn? Are you just imagining the worst case scenario, and can you also imagine the best case scenario? What would happen if things go the way you hope for? If you focus on the positives of the present moment, this can manifest more opportunities for your life. Where focus goes, energy flows! See more

You could be putting in so much effort but you're missing a really important piece of the health puzzle! Are you taking unusual amount of medications or supplements to manage your health symptoms? Or spending an excess amount of time exercising? Or constantly seeking new pain reduction methods? The thing is, if you haven't changed the terrain of your microbiome, these problems will persist or recurr as most of your efforts are being spent on the symptom management ...rather than on the cause of your problem - and that may have to do with these hidden microbes! 1 Parasites - common symptoms include: insomnia, itching, weight loss OR weight retention, anxiety and severe panic attacks. 2 Mold - common symptoms include: joint pain, depression, sinus congestion, allergies, hives, cough, excess mucous and weight gain 3 Viruses - common symptoms include: rashes, low vitamin status, food allergies, hives, sinus congestion, chronic coughs, chronic infections and autoimmune diseases 4 Bacteria - common symptoms include: cravings, sugar dysregulation, depression, weight gain, urinary tract infections, fat in the abdominal region, constipation OR diarrhea and food allergies 5 Prions - common symptoms include: mental disorders, neurological issues, severe illness and gradual decline 6 Yeast - common symptoms include: cravings, sugar dysregulation, weight gain, urinary tract infections, fat distribution in the abdominal region, constipation OR diarrhea. Forward this very important post along to anyone you know who may be struggling with their health and have not considered these bugs! Stay tuned for more detailed posts about microbes how they affect you! See more

- or + ? Mindset is a choice!

Let’s not forget Health!

I hope today is one of those days for you

Your energy crashes may be related to why you can’t lose weight! The top 5 hormones that may be interfering with your energy: Thyroid Panel:... The best assessment is a full thyroid panel including TSH, free T3 ad free T4 to get the complete picture of your available thyroid hormones in circulation. It’s also important to test for thyroid antibodies to determine any autoimmune factors interfering with your metabolism. HBA1C: Glycated hemoglobin is chemically linked to your blood sugar levels and is indicative your insulin and glucose metabolism for your cells. Optimal levels help to lower the risk of diabetes and improve fat-burning rates. Melatonin: The circadian hormone involved in sleep-wake cycles also affects metabolism by regulating bowel movements and thyroid hormone production. Your quality and quantity of sleep helps to keep these levels in check. Cortisol: This hormone regulates inflammation, and when levels are too high it can suppress your immune system, delay healing time and decrease muscle mass. When cortisol levels are too low, it decreases calorie burning and slows overall thyroid function. Estrogen: When your estrogen levels are off, fat stores!Low estrogen lowers your metabolism and uses sugars less effectively. High estrogen levels can block thyroid hormones from working. Excess estrogens can be seen on breast tissues, the buttocks, hips and inner thighs. How to take action: 1. Mindfulness practice: a daily stress reduction technique like visualizations or gratitude journal can be very effective in reducing stress and this will help to balance all of the above hormones. The brain is a powerful command centre! 2. Symptom check: go through each of these hormones and ask yourself if you feel your sleep, digestion, stress, fat distribution and energy levels are all optimal? 3. Laboratory testing: testing can be done to identify deficiencies and excesses in each of these hormones, this would be done through a lab or with your health care provider. If you're struggling with any of the issues related to these hormones, DM me and I can help point you in the right direction!

The verdict is out! Body Fat % is key when assessing your overall health! You may have been led to believe it is your BMI that matters most. But it’s your body fat %, and here’s why... Toxins: Toxins are stored in fat: pesticides, xenohormones, and heavy metals are all fat soluble substances, meaning they store well in fatty tissues. Your body fat % can indicate an estimate of your overall toxin load. Body composition: Humans comes in many shapes and sizes, while Body Mass Index (BMI) looks at only your height and weight. If you have a high fat amount and low muscle mass and/or bone density, your BMI is not giving you an accurate picture. Your health should take into account all 3 of these factors! Organs store fat!: Body Fat % can give you and understanding of your organ health. Fat stored in organ tissues can be a risk factor for high cholesterol, heart disease, stroke and liver disease. BMI is only one tool used to determine your weight requirements, be sure to consider your Body Fat % when determining your health factors! A healthy body fat percentage can range widely from 10-31% for females and from 5-25% for males. Your optimal target may warrant further discussions with a qualified health practitioner. Save/share or DM me if you have questions! See more

Ways to reduce waste

There are many psychological blocks to weight loss. In my practice the most transformative weight-loss outcomes come from identifying mental/emotional obstacles. It is something most patients don’t expect that we eventually address together. Here are 3 of the most common issues:... Core Beliefs - Do you know: your family history or negative prior experiences can be impacting your body image and subsequently your weight-loss progress. Core beliefs centered around I have always been this way, everyone in my family is overweight, It’s extremely difficult to lose weight, becomes your reality! Healing these identification traumas opens up the space to stay motivated and sets a solid foundation for success! Mind-Body Cues - Do you listen to your body? The mind should connect with the physical body. Are you eating because you are hungry or bored? Do you continue to exercise when you feel sore, or do you rest until the pain has subsided? Your body is always in communication with you and when you’re not attuned, you don’t give your body what it needs to progress and unconsciously create setbacks. Mental Repetition - You are what you repeat! Are you constantly feeling devoid of time, energy, willingness, power, courage and strength? Daily mental exercises or positive affirmations can keep the mind focused on the mental state needed to reach your goals. Please save and share this post with someone who needs to hear this!

Have you tried EVERYTHING to increase your metabolism? If you are NOT burning fat, you are NOT seeing physical results and FRUSTRATED with your progress: it’s often related to the colon! The colon is the MOST important detoxification organ because... HEALTHY BACTERIA CONVERTS FOOD INTO ENERGY ... Does your colon have a healthy variety AND amount of ‘good’ bacteria? Microbial diversity enables the body to metabolize food into energy, rather than storing it as fat! When the colon is overburdened with bad bacteria, this caloric conversion to energy does not happen! PROBIOTICS BOOST METABOLISM Probiotics are living microorganisms found in fermented foods or in multi-strain probiotics in supplement form and provide anti-inflammatory effects. Low levels of inflammation are key in an optimal metabolism. Strains including lactobacillius and bifidobacterium decrease inflammation, enhance cellular energy and increase metabolic factors. PREBIOTICS SUPPORT GOOD GROWTH ‘Good’ bacteria die when they are not replenished with the right foods. Prebiotics are compounds found in dark green leafy vegetables like kale, broccoli, cabbage and in fibres like psyllium husks and flax seeds. Prebiotics supply the right carbohydrates needed for beneficial microbial strain division. Try to eat at least 5-10 servings of vegetables per day or 2TBSPS of husks or seeds per meal to make this happen! WASTE ELIMINATION IS ESSENTIAL Bowel movements at 2-3 times per day allows the colon to cleanse itself naturally of toxic waste. If stools sit in the colon for prolonged periods of time, fat, cholesterol, excess hormones, heavy metals and pathogens (bad bacteria, yeast, viruses and parasites) are reabsorbed into the blood stream in the distal colon and this will keep fat on. Drink a MINIMUM of half your body weight (lbs) in ounces of water per day to keep bowels moving. These simple habits can keep your colon functioning at its best and rev your fat burning mechanisms through beta oxidation, which is the catabolic breakdown of fatty acids in the body. Please save and share or tag someone that needs to read this! See more

I believe in a world where we can hold space for one another I believe in wishing happiness, love & peace for all I believe we can co-exist, in acceptance of our similarities and differences ... I believe we are able to create a world comprised of our hopes and dreams : @rupikaur_ #mindset #forwardthinking #growth #healing #freedom #bethechange #naturopathicdoctor

At the deepest level, we are all spiritual beings, inextricably connected to everyone & everything in pure consciousness. As we focus our attention on the... expansion of love, compassion, & equanimity, the light of our awareness will radiate out into the universe, elevating the collective consciousness of the world. - Words: Unknown : Summer & water : Sunday mindfulness See more

Establishing social circles of 10 is now healthy and advised! https://news.ontario.ca//ontarians-encouraged-to-establish

Excited to announce the clinic is now open for in-person consultations! The necessary precautions will take place for patient and practitioner safety: personal protective equipment (PPE), face masks, social distancing procedures, hand sanitizer use and Covid pre-screening. Patients are asked to arrive no earlier than 5 minutes before their scheduled appointments.... Virtual consultations will be available indefinitely for those who prefer, or when necessary. If you’d like to book a consultation or have any questions please email: [email protected] See more