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Tag: naturopathic medicine

Homeopathy 101: What to Expect From This Holistic Approach

Homeopathy is a system of alternative medicine developed in the late 18th century by German physician Samuel Hahnemann. It is based on principles of “Like Cures Like” (Law of Similars) where a substance that can cause symptoms in a healthy person can, in highly diluted forms, be used to treat similar symptoms in a sick person. For example, a substance that causes a fever in large doses may be used in a diluted form to treat a fever. Another important principle it is based upon is  The Law of Minimum Dose (Potentization) in which homeopathy uses remedies that are highly diluted, sometimes to the point where no molecules of the original substance remain. It is believed that the process of dilution and shaking (called “succussion”) activates the healing properties of the substance. The more diluted the remedy, the more potent it is considered in homeopathic practice.

How Homeopathy Works

  • Individualized Treatment: Homeopathic treatment is highly personalized. Practitioners assess the whole person, including their physical, emotional, and mental symptoms, before prescribing a remedy that matches the patient’s specific condition.
  • Remedies: Homeopathic remedies come from natural sources such as plants, minerals, and animals. These remedies are prepared through serial dilution and succussion. They are available in various forms like liquid drops, tablets, or pellets.
  • Holistic Approach: Homeopathy treats the person as a whole, considering not just specific symptoms but the individual’s overall constitution and lifestyle.

Common Conditions Supported by Homeopathy

Homeopathy is often used for a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, including:

  • Colds, flu, and respiratory infections
  • Allergies
  • Anxiety, depression, and stress-related conditions
  • Digestive disorders
  • Skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis
  • Chronic pain (e.g., arthritis)

Benefits of Homeopathy

Homeopathy offers several benefits, particularly for those seeking a natural, holistic approach to health and wellness. Here are the key benefits of using homeopathy:

1. Homeopathy is a Holistic Treatment

Homeopathy treats the person as a whole, considering physical, emotional, and mental health rather than just focusing on isolated symptoms. This holistic approach aims to address the underlying causes of illness and promote overall well-being.

2. Homeopathy Provides Individualized Care

Treatment in homeopathy is personalized to each individual. A homeopath selects remedies based on the unique symptoms and constitution of the patient, ensuring that treatment is tailored specifically to the person rather than the disease.

3. Remedies Have Minimal Side Effects

Homeopathic remedies are made from natural substances and are highly diluted, which means they generally have very few, if any, side effects. This makes homeopathy a suitable option for people who are sensitive to conventional medications or looking for a gentler approach.

4. Chronic Condition Management

Homeopathy is often used to manage chronic conditions such as allergies, arthritis, asthma, migraines, and skin disorders like eczema. It aims to provide long-term relief and reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.

5. Non-Invasive and Gentle

The remedies are non-invasive and gentle, making them suitable for people of all ages, including infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly.

6. Homeopathy Can Improve Overall Well-Being

Homeopathy doesn’t just focus on the disease; it aims to improve overall health and vitality. Many patients report feeling better both physically and emotionally, even if they sought treatment for a specific condition.

7. Complementary to Conventional Medicine

Homeopathy can be used alongside conventional treatments. It is often employed as a complementary therapy to enhance recovery and improve quality of life.

 

8. Homeopathic Remedies Can Promote Self-Healing

Homeopathy works on the principle of stimulating the body’s own healing processes. By encouraging the body to heal itself, homeopathy seeks to restore balance and improve the body’s natural defenses against illness.

9. Homeopathy Treats Emotional and Mental Health

Homeopathy is also used to treat mental and emotional conditions like anxiety, depression, stress, and insomnia. Remedies are chosen based on emotional states, and treatment focuses on both mental and physical health.

When Should Homeopathy Not Be Used?

Homeopathy should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical care in cases of acute emergencies, serious chronic diseases, or conditions that require specific medical or surgical interventions. It can, however, be used in conjunction with conventional treatments for some acute or chronic conditions under the guidance of healthcare professionals. Always seek appropriate medical advice for life-threatening or serious health conditions.

Examples of some scenarios (not an exhaustive list) where homeopathy should not be the first choice in care include:

    • Acute medical emergencies, for example, heart attack, stroke, severe injuries (e.g. fractures, head trauma), anaphylactic shock, or severe allergic reactions 
    • Chronic, life-threatening conditions such as cancer, severe infections (e.g. pneumonia, sepsis, meningitis), HIV/AIDS
    • Severe mental health disorders, for example, psychosis, schizophrenia, severe depression, suicidal thoughts, bipolar disorder, and manic episodes
    • Infectious diseases that can be preventable by vaccination, for example, measles, polio, tuberculosis, malaria, etc.
    • Complications of pregnancy, such as ectopic pregnancy, pre-eclampsia, or severe hypertension in pregnancy
    • Respiratory distress or severe asthma attacks
    • Conditions that require emergency surgery, for example, appendicitis, gallstones, or kidney stones

Why Work with a Homeopathic Practitioner

Working with a homeopathic professional ensures that your treatment is safe, tailored to your specific needs, and monitored over time. Homeopaths look at the whole person rather than just individual symptoms. A professional takes into account all aspects of your health—physical, emotional, mental, and even social factors. They will identify the root cause of your condition and provide a holistic treatment plan, considering not just immediate symptoms but overall health improvement.

Homeopathic professionals offer the expertise, personalized care, and ethical guidance necessary for effective treatment, while also ensuring homeopathy is used in a complementary way with conventional medicine when necessary. Their holistic approach can contribute to overall well-being and long-term health improvements.

In Summary

Homeopathy is a versatile and holistic modality that can be complementary to conventional treatment plans. When guided by a homeopathic professional, homeopathic remedies can address many health concerns in a gentle and impactful way.

Ready to get started?

Book your first homeopathic consultation today

Best Lab Tests for Digestive Issues

Digestive health can be compromised as we encounter stressors, infections, processed foods, and a multitude of other factors throughout life. Although digestive health is a key component of overall wellness, it is easy to fall victim to fad diets, detoxes, and other treatments in pursuit of digestive relief. 

While it isn’t abnormal to have an irregular bowel movement here and there or a stomach ache after a night out drinking, it is abnormal to suffer from digestive upset more days than not. If your bloating, constipation, diarrhea, gas, etc. is significantly impacting your quality of life, then it’s time to address it and start making informed decisions about your health. 

This article will shed light on the many tests that naturopathic doctors (NDs) offer to help address your digestive issues and get you feeling better sooner.

Best Lab Tests for Digestive Issues

Food Sensitivity Testing

  • Type of test: Blood draw
  • Symptoms you may have: Bloating, gas, changes in bowel movements, abdominal pain, migraines, headaches, fatigue, hives, asthma, unexplained weight changes, sinus congestion, joint pain, hair loss, and more.
  • Conditions it may be good for: Chronic acne, eczema, IBS, IBD, autoimmune disorders, etc.

The IgG food sensitivity test is a blood test that is used to detect the level of IgG antibodies against certain foods that are consumed within the diet. This information can help determine what foods within the diet may be causing your symptoms and which are likely safe to eat. To clarify, IgG food sensitivity tests do not diagnose a food allergy as those are mediated by IgE antibodies. Instead, they look at food intolerances/sensitivities which are believed to be prevalent in up to 20% of the general population. 

Breath Tests

  • Type of test: Breath test
  • Symptoms you may have: Bloating, gas, abdominal pain, heartburn, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, unintentional weight loss, loss of appetite, and chronic bad breath.
  • Conditions it may be good for: Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), H.pylori infection, IBS, and lactose intolerance.

A breath test measures the concentration of specific gases in a given sample of exhaled air. This information can help determine whether certain bacteria have overgrown in the digestive system or whether our body struggles to break down certain carbohydrates in the diet. 

Depending on the type of breath test, patients will usually need to fast for a specific amount of time and then provide a baseline breath sample. After ingesting a test solution (in some cases) you would then provide subsequent breath samples which involve blowing air into a breath collection device. 

An H. pylori breath test is often called the urea breath test as you are instructed to drink a solution containing urea. H.pylori break down urea into carbon dioxide and therefore excess carbon dioxide in the breath can be a sign of infection. SIBO, on the other hand, can be diagnosed with a hydrogen breath test. Patients are instructed to drink either a glucose or lactulose beverage and then breath samples are tested for hydrogen or methane levels to determine a diagnosis.

Stool Tests

  • Type of test: Stool test
  • Possible symptoms: Bloody stools, chronic diarrhea, constipation, ongoing/severe abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, persistent gas/bloating, mucous-y stools, pale or dark stools, etc.
  • Conditions it may be good for: Infections (bacterial, parasitic, viral), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colon cancer, pancreatic insufficiency and more.

Several types of stool tests exist though each involve collecting a tiny amount of stool and sending it off to the lab. The FIT test, otherwise known as the fecal immunochemical test, looks for tiny amounts of blood in the stool which may or may not be associated with colorectal cancer. This test is often conducted with your family doctor or specialist. 

Other types of stool tests like a stool culture determine whether you have an infection and whether the cause is a bacteria, parasite, or virus. This is especially indicated if you have recently travelled outside of the country and/or have other signs and symptoms of an infection. 

Naturopathic doctors sometimes employ the use of more in-depth stool testing like the GI-Map. This test looks at inflammatory and immune markers, digestive markers, antibiotic resistance genes, commensal bacteria, and opportunistic bacteria as well. 

Blood Tests

  • Type of test: Blood draw
  • Possible symptoms: Blood or mucous in stool, fatigue, abdominal pain, changes in bowel movements, rashes, etc.
  • Conditions it may be good for: Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, H. pylori/peptic ulcer disease, thyroid disorders, and more.

Many are aware that our yearly blood work can give us a lot of insight into our bodies and how well they function. What many don’t know is that blood tests can actually be used to help diagnose certain gastrointestinal disorders. For example, there is an entire celiac disease panel that measures antibodies such as anti-tissue transglutaminase to determine whether you have an autoimmune reaction to gluten. In addition, measuring antibodies against H.pylori can help determine if there is an infection causing your digestive issues.

Why Test?

Testing removes the guesswork from treatment and gets you better faster. Even with the help of an experienced healthcare provider, it is virtually impossible to know what is going on inside the body without actually testing to see. 

Testing helps avoid unnecessary trial and error, wasted supplements, costly dietary changes, and precious time spent in visits. Although testing can be an investment, it is the fastest way to determine the root cause of your health concern and how to best address it. It also ensures that no changes are made to worsen your current condition or masks symptoms that need attention right away.

Naturopathic Approaches to Digestive Issues

In order to determine which test is best suited for you, a licensed naturopathic doctor (ND) would need to complete a medical intake to evaluate your medical history, what tests may have been completed prior, and any signs and/or symptoms you currently suffer from. 

Some tests may be diagnostic and others can give us clues as to what foods you may be sensitive to or what digestive enzymes you may require. Contrary to popular belief, there is not always a clean-cut answer as to why a person suffers from certain digestive disorders and others do not. The good news is that NDs are best suited to offering the options that can help. 

Do you have questions about how to navigate testing or how this would impact your treatment plan? Book in with Dr. Angelica, ND to learn more! 

Do you have questions about how to navigate testing or how this would impact your treatment plan?

Book in with Dr. Angelica, ND to learn more

Do Probiotics Help for Clear Skin?

Probiotics are live, active microorganisms like bacteria and yeast that are naturally occurring in the body. When dysbiosis or infection occurs, harmful microbes propagate and flourish while our “friendly microbes” that keep us healthy, die off. This can cause an array of problems ranging from gas and bloating, to reduced immune function, and even skin concerns. Yes, the skin! Acne, eczema and psoriasis or plain old itchy skin and bumpy rashes can be a result of changes in your microbial composition.

Although probiotics are typically used to support gastrointestinal health, recent studies have shown that introducing probiotic rich foods and supplementation may also benefit the skin. Incorporating probiotics as part of a whole-person, professional-led plan may positively impact the gut-skin relationship and provide relief for stubborn dermatological disorders.

The Microbiome-Skin Connection

Similar to the digestive system, the skin harbours a complex ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and viruses which each serve a very important purpose. Our bodies constantly exchange microbes with our environment and our microbes may change with hormones fluctuations or with age. This “skin microbiome” has been known to impact our gut microbiome in many ways through what researchers call the gut-skin axis. 

For instance, disruptions in the gut microbiome can trigger an immune response and the release of inflammatory mediators that then disrupt skin physiology. What does that look like? Irritated, angry skin!

Probiotics and Skin Conditions 

Different probiotic strains confer different effects on the skin environment, so knowing what strains to pick can be crucial when shopping for your probiotic. For instance, Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium can help mediate skin inflammation and are great for conditions like atopic or allergic contact dermatitis. If you want to be even more specific, Lactobacillus acidophilus is great for rosacea since it has a calming effect and can soothe irritation or redness of the skin. 

When in doubt, opting for a broad-spectrum probiotic with a variety of strains is a great option to ensure you are covering your bases. A broad-spectrum probiotic is a supplement with multiple strains of beneficial microbes. 

If you have any of the following concerns listed below, probiotics may be a helpful option for you to consider:

      • Acne
      • Eczema
      • Psoriasis
      • Rosacea
      • Hives
      • Dermatitis
      • Wound healing
      • Wrinkles
      • Scleroderma

Probiotics and Acne

Acne can be caused by dietary triggers, stress, sleep disruptions, androgens, and more. Though probiotics can benefit many cases of acne, not all acne is rooted in the digestive system. Furthermore, probiotics as a stand-alone treatment might not be enough to treat severe, cystic, treatment-resistant acne. It’s important to set expectations and know that probiotics can be a great part of a treatment when choosing the right dose, the right strains, and the right delivery. 

So what does that mean? What does the research say? Well, probiotics have been studied in patients with mild-moderate acne and have been shown to successfully improve the skin’s clarity and reduce breakouts.

We know that the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes lives on the skin and can cause acne (along with other bacteria). The wonderful thing about probiotics is that it can help control the growth of these acne-causing bacteria through the gut-skin axis. These helpful microbes have antibacterial proteins and substances that kill off bad bacteria and reduce inflammation on the skin—a win-win!

Recent trials show that both oral and topical probiotics may have a positive effect on the skin. One of the main advantages to taking an oral probiotic is that it can help influence the intestinal microbiota and it can also work on metabolic pathways involving insulin. In addition, the vast majority of the research on probiotics has been using oral formulations rather than the topical preparations. For this reason, one might be more inclined to use an oral supplement or probiotic rich foods rather than applying probiotics in a cream or gel form.

Probiotic-rich foods that you may want to consider for clear skin include:

      • Yogurt
      • Kefir
      • Sauerkraut
      • Kimchi
      • Miso
      • Tempeh
      • Kombucha

Naturopathic Care and Skin Health

Addressing skin health can be complex and probiotics may not be that silver bullet for you. It’s important to consider all of the factors that contribute to our digestive, hormonal, immune, and skin health before jumping blindly towards treatments that may or may not work. 

Part of working with a naturopathic doctor is getting a holistic perspective on how each system of the body influences the next. Without addressing the foundations of health like exercise, sleep, diet, and stress it’s hard for any treatment to work effectively. The body and the mind need to work together in harmony.

My work as a naturopathic doctor involves an in-depth intake and comprehensive testing, where appropriate, to narrow down the root cause of your skin concern. Through this process, I can help develop a targeted treatment plan that supports the gut-skin axis through herbs, acupuncture, supplements, and food. Using my expertise I can also help guide you away from products that may be worsening your skin or failing to address what’s really going on. Or, I may swap out certain probiotic strains for others to ensure that we are using evidence-based recommendations for the best possible outcome. Ultimately, there are a lot of treatments for clear skin out there, but knowing which one is right for you may require some help.

If you are interested in starting your journey towards healthy, clear skin,
then book in to learn more!

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How to Perfect Your Spring-Summer Detox 

Detox, detox, detox.  

Detoxing has become quite the fad, both online and in the health community. Many of us think that we need to be on a plethora of detox supplements or laxatives and that we need to be doing long hours (sometimes days) of fasting in order to do it “properly” and to “cleanse” our systems completely of all waste and toxins.  

But here’s the reality of it: Yes, those things may help accelerate the process. Yes, they may help in the short term. But that is not all of what a detox is, and it is important to note they’re not always the safest either, especially not for long periods of time. As a naturopathic doctor, I would highly advise doing these under direct supervision of your health care  provider.  

What’s a Detox? 

A true detox involves supporting our essential detox organs, which are our:  

These organs help to eliminate toxins, waste, and hormones (and hormone byproducts, called metabolites) from the body. They help filter out the “good” from the “not so good.” However, these organs can become “sluggish” or  backed up (i.e. not functioning optimally) when there is a large toxic load, which can be due to poor lifestyle choices or high environmental exposures.  

Common signs and symptoms of your detox organs not functioning optimally include:  

      • Fatigue  
      • Water retention or swelling  
      • Bloating  
      • Digestive upset  
      • Constipation  
      • Chronic cough  
      • Getting sick frequently  
      • Excess congestion
      • Allergies and sensitivities
      • Skin concerns  
      • Increased acne or breakouts  
      • Increased pain or inflammation  
      • Brain fog  
      • Weight loss or gain  
      • Hormonal concerns, etc. 

Many of us may experience one or more of the above symptoms. Note that we can easily support these detox organs in our day-to-day life through nutrition, lifestyle, supplements, and with botanical medicine as well.  

Top Tips for Supporting Detoxification

The top 7 things to remember when doing your yearly detox:  

      1. Drink enough water! This can be up to 2-3 litres, depending on the individual.  
      2. Increase your vegetable and whole foods intake. Reduce processed foods!
      3. Increase protein and healthy fats.  Swap out for more plant-proteins, olive oil, and avocado oil.
      4. Eliminate alcohol, smoking, sugar, caffeine, and coffee.  
      5. Increase exercise, and encourage daily sweating – whether with movement or a sauna.
      6. Prioritize sleep, and ensure you are getting at least 7–8 hours of well rested sleep everyday. 
      7. Manage your stress — do something that helps you relax everyday!  

These are the foundations of health, and are essential to maintaining a healthy body, and supporting our detoxification systems. The reality is, if we do not optimize our food, our movement, our sleep and our stress, no amount of detoxing or products from the health food store will do us any good. If anything, the effects will be short-lived, and you will be back to feeling unwell soon after.

We are what we consume, and this applies to our food and what we ingest, but also to what we consume socially, from the media, from our relationships and from any such negativity or toxicity in our  lives too.  

I encourage you to be mindful and try the tips above. Notice how you feel after doing so for 1–2 weeks, and the impact it has had on your daily life and functioning.

If you have any other questions on how to support your body or health via naturopathic medicine or botanical medicine, feel free to  book a free 15 minute discovery call with me.  

Let’s work to restore your health in all aspects — mentally, emotionally and physically! 

Wishing you all nothing but good health and positive energy. 

Book with Dr. Sidhu, ND

Menopause Dos and Don’ts According to Our Experts

Menopause can be confusing for many women due to its wide array of symptoms and the variability in how they manifest. These symptoms  can interfere with daily activities, work, relationships, and overall quality of life. Dealing with these disruptions while trying to understand and manage the changes can be overwhelming.

What is menopause?

Menopause marks the end of a woman's menstrual cycles and is defined as the absence of menstruation for 12 consecutive months. The average age of natural menopause in women is around 51, but it can occur earlier or later. 

 In addition, because there is considerable overlap with other health problems it is hard to attribute symptoms strictly to menopause. For example, women may attribute mood swings or fatigue to stress rather than hormonal changes associated with menopause. Menopause is still a topic that isn’t always openly discussed, leading to a lack of awareness and understanding. Without proper information, women may feel lost or confused about what they’re experiencing.

We find there are a lot of questions around menopause treatment options, from IUDs and antidepressants to more natural options like lifestyle changes, and naturopathic medicine. But here’s our menopause do’s and don’ts regardless of the treatment options you explore. 

Don’t – Ignore Your Symptoms

Ignoring menopause symptoms can worsen discomfort, impact quality of life, and lead to further health risks such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Prompt attention allows for effective management, reduces distress, and prevents complications later on in life. Consulting a naturopathic doctor ensures personalized guidance and treatment which will improve your current and long term health during this natural transition.

Do – Get Your Hormone Levels Checked

Getting your hormone levels checked is like peeking behind the curtain of menopause symptoms. It helps figure out what’s really going on in your body so you can tackle those hot flashes and mood swings head-on. Don’t guess, know for sure! Naturopathic doctors offer a variety of menopause testing such as simple blood work but also the DUTCH test which comprehensively shows the hormone cascade in your body. Working with a licensed naturopathic doctor can get you the answers you need for your body and mind during menopause.

Don’t – Try Just Any Pink Supplement

Those pink supplements might look appealing, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution for menopause symptoms. They are often not addressing the root cause and can be risky if combined with other medications you may be taking. It’s better to talk to a healthcare professional for safe and effective options tailored to your needs. Don’t gamble with your health; go for what’s tried and true.

Do – Get Individualized Treatment Recommendations 

Menopause isn’t one-size-fits-all, so why settle for generic solutions? Getting personalized treatment recommendations from a naturopathic doctor is like finding the perfect fit for your body’s needs. It’s all about tailoring the approach to YOU and your lifestyle. Whether you need more energy to keep up with your family or help dealing with work-related stress, your menopause journey needs your attention. Don’t just wing it; get the guidance that’s made for you.

Don’t – Overeat Soy 

While soy can be the solution for some it may not help with your symptoms. Depending on other aspects of your body, for example your thyroid, it may not be the right move in managing your symptoms. Moderation is key; overdoing it could bring more harm than help. It’s cool to sprinkle some soy into your diet, just don’t go overboard – your body will thank you.

Do – Commit to a Health-Promoting Lifestyle

Regular exercise, balanced eating, and stress management can dial down those frustrating/annoying symptoms and boost your overall well-being. For some women adopting healthy habits may get them a complete resolution of symptoms and for others it gets them the majority of the way there. Plus, it’s a long-term win-win for your overall health. 

In Summary

Navigating menopause can be confusing, but it’s crucial to approach it with clarity and care. Avoiding quick-fix supplements and excessive soy consumption, while committing to a health-promoting lifestyle, forms a solid foundation to support your hormone transition. Seek individualized treatment recommendations and get hormone levels checked to tailor solutions to your needs. With the right approach, you can tackle menopause confidently, ensuring a smoother transition and better quality of life.

Get help with building a plan that supports your health now.

Book an appointment with one of our knowledgeable naturopathic doctors.

Contact Us

5 Reasons You Should Be Tracking Your Menstrual Cycle

Are you a 3-weeker or a 4-weeker? Tracking your menstrual cycle can yield a lot of benefits, not just for your laundry and vacation schedules, but also for your hormone health, fertility, and overall health. Read on to find out 5 reasons why you should be tracking your menstrual cycle, and how to do it. 

A “Normal” Cycle

Although the average length of a menstrual cycle is 28 days, a menstrual cycle can be from 23 to 35 days and still be considered normal. The regularity of your cycle is more important than the length of your cycle because it indicates that your hormones are cycling properly. There are a few hormones that influence the regularity of your cycle:

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)

This hormone, released by a gland in the brain, stimulates the development of follicles in the ovary, which become eggs that can become fertilized every cycle.
Luteinizing hormone (LH)

Like FSH, LH is made in the brain and has roles in ovulation and regulating cycle length. 
Estrogen

A hormone that is made throughout the body and has a variety of actions. In people who menstruate, it’s dominant during the first half of their cycle.
Progesterone

A hormone made throughout the body and is dominant during the second half of the menstrual cycle.

Your cycle length may vary because of individual factors, but your cycle regularity can be impacted by factors like stress and other conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, thyroid conditions, or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). 

Why You Should Be Tracking Your Cycle

1. Helps to monitor your fertility

One of the primary reasons to track your cycle is to better understand your fertile window for family planning. Tracking the start and end to your cycle, along with cycle milestones like cervical mucous, can help you determine when—and when not to—time intercourse for your family planning goals.

2. Helps to monitor changes in your hormones 

Cycle regularity is determined by the interplay between the four major hormones: FSH, LH, estrogen, and progesterone. However, other hormones, such as thyroid hormone, can impact your menstrual cycle as well. Tracking your cycle can give clues to the changes in these hormones and how they interact with each other.

3. Understand how stress affects your cycle

Have you ever noticed a late period during a stressful time? Cortisol, your stress hormone, can also affect your cycle length and regularity. Track your cycle to better predict how stress can affect you. Moreover, you can track your cycle to understand if stress management techniques, like acupuncture, meditation, or other treatments, make an impact on your hormone health.

4. Understand how body fat affects your cycle

Body fat can impact your hormone production and how hormones interact with your reproductive organs. Too little body fat, as in the case of people struggling with eating disorders or extreme workout routines, can cause irregular menstrual cycles. In addition, people who have body mass indexes (BMI) of more than 30 kg/m2 can be predisposed to conditions like diabetes mellitus or PCOS, which can impact cycle length and regularity. Tracking your cycle can help you understand how body fat changes can affect your hormone health.

5. Helps your doctor monitor your other medical conditions

A primary care doctor or OB/GYN specialist typically asks about your cycle length and regularity during your visits. If your healthcare provider is working up a hormonal issue, such as menopause or infertility, they typically will ask for a blood draw on day 3 or day 21 of your cycle. 

Knowing your cycle can help your doctor diagnose hormonal conditions and monitor other conditions. As mentioned previously, conditions such as thyroid disorders, PCOS, and diabetes can often impact your menstrual cycle. 

Expert Cycle Tracking Tips From Dr. Salwan, ND

Tracking your cycle can be as simple as a paper calendar or it can be logged in a mobile app. Here are tips from naturopathic doctor Dr. Salwan:

    • Track when your cycle starts: Your cycle starts on the day you notice spotting or bleeding for your period.
    • Track when your period phase ends: Note the last day of your period to calculate your period length.
    • Track when your cycle ends: Your cycle ends the day before your period starts again.
    • You can track your cervical mucous, discharge you notice, cramps you experience, and other symptoms like mood changes, bloating, acne, or breast tenderness as well. 
    • There are many mobile apps that you can log your cycle details in addition to other symptoms you may experience throughout your cycle. 
    • If you’re concerned about your digital privacy on mobile apps, you can always use a physical diary, journal, or calendar to track your cycle.

Talking to a healthcare professional like your naturopathic doctor can help you decode your health through your cycle tracking.

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5 Things You Should Know About Menopause

Menopause, a pivotal life transition, marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles and signifies the conclusion of her reproductive years. The menopausal shift gives rise to a spectrum of physical and emotional changes, ranging from hot flashes and night sweats to mood swings and changes in bone density. 

Beyond the physiological aspects, menopause also carries psychological and emotional dimensions, impacting a woman’s sense of identity and well-being. Navigating this transformative period involves understanding the diverse manifestations of menopausal symptoms, exploring available treatment options, and embracing lifestyle adjustments to promote overall health and resilience. 

What is Menopause?

Menopause is a natural part of a woman’s life that occurs when the ovaries stop releasing eggs and producing the hormones estrogen and progesterone. 

There are a few phases to menopause, starting with perimenopause and ending in postmenopause: 

Perimenopause

Perimenopause refers to the transitional stage leading up to menopause, typically beginning in a woman's 40s but sometimes starting earlier.

During perimenopause, hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, begin to fluctuate, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and various symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, fatigue, and changes in libido.

Perimenopause can last for several years, and the duration varies from woman to woman. It ends when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, marking the onset of menopause.

Menopause

Menopause marks the end of a woman's menstrual cycles and fertility. It is defined as the absence of menstruation for 12 consecutive months.

The average age of natural menopause in women is around 51, but it can occur earlier or later. Factors such as genetics, smoking, and certain medical conditions can influence the timing of menopause.

Postmenopause

Postmenopause refers to the stage of life after menopause has been reached. It begins the day after a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual period.

During postmenopause, hormone levels, particularly estrogen, remain at consistently low levels. As a result, women may continue to experience symptoms such as vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and mood changes.

Postmenopausal women are at increased risk of certain health conditions, including osteoporosis (due to decreased bone density), cardiovascular disease, and cognitive changes.

Understanding the stages of menopause can help women navigate the physical and emotional changes associated with menopause and make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Hormones in Menopause

The hormonal changes during menopause involve more than just a decrease in estrogen. The interplay of hormones from various glands, including the thyroid, pancreas, adrenals, and ovaries, is intricate and dynamic. It is crucial for your provider to understand how each hormone interacts and compensates for one another in order to help you achieve hormonal balance during menopause.

 

Here are some key hormonal glands that your healthcare provider may consider:

  1. Thyroid gland – Thyroid disorders can mimic peri/menopausal symptoms such as weight gain, mood changes, fatigue, hair loss and sleep disturbance.
  2. Ovaries – Ovaries are the primary reproductive organs responsible for producing estrogen, progesterone, and small amounts of testosterone. During menopause, ovarian function declines, leading to a decrease in estrogen and progesterone production.
  3. Pancreas – The pancreas produces insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and may influence weight management during menopause.
  4. Adrenals – Chronic stress during menopause can lead to dysregulation of adrenal function, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. The adrenals are responsible for the stress response and take over production of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone in menopause.

Five Things You Need To Know About Hormones in Menopause

Here are five ways that hormones can impact your health during the different phases of menopause: 

  1. Hormones Fluctuate During Perimenopause:
    Perimenopause is characterized by fluctuating hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone. These fluctuations can lead to irregular periods, hot flashes, mood swings, and other symptoms as the body adjusts to changing hormone levels. During this phase, testing for hormones can be a moving target. Collaborating with your healthcare professional can help avoid the trial-and-error approach when experimenting with various products and supplements.

  2. Low Hormone Levels in Postmenopause:
    After menopause, women experience a significant decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels, leading to various changes in the body. These changes can include decreased bone density, increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and changes in cognitive function.
  3. Hormones Impact Bones, the Brain, and the Cardiovascular System:
    The decrease in hormone levels postmenopause can have profound effects on bone health, brain function, and cardiovascular health. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density, so low estrogen levels can increase the risk of osteoporosis. Additionally, estrogen has neuroprotective effects and helps regulate the cardiovascular system, so its decline can affect brain function and cardiovascular health.
  4. Menopause is More Than Just About Estrogen and Progesterone:
    Menopause involves a complex interplay of hormones beyond just estrogen. While estrogen levels decline, other hormones such as progesterone, testosterone, and hormones produced by the adrenal glands also play a role in menopausal symptoms and overall health. Understanding how these hormones interact and compensate for each other is essential for managing menopausal symptoms and promoting overall well-being.
  5. Balancing Hormones Isn’t A One-Size-Fits-All:
    Achieving hormone balance during menopause involves more than just replacing estrogen. It requires a comprehensive approach that considers the interactions between various hormones and addresses individual symptoms and health concerns. This may involve lifestyle changes, hormone therapy, nutritional support, and other interventions tailored to each woman’s needs.

By understanding the complexities of menopause and its impact on hormone levels, women can take proactive steps to manage symptoms, support their overall health, and navigate this important life transition more effectively.

How Naturopathic Doctors Help

Naturopathic doctors (NDs) take a holistic approach to assess and treat menopausal symptoms and related health concerns. They consider the interconnectedness of various bodily systems and focus on addressing the underlying causes of symptoms rather than merely managing them.

Menopause is a significant life transition that can bring physical, emotional, and psychological changes for women. Naturopathic medicine offers holistic approaches to assess and treat menopausal symptoms, emphasizing individualized care, lifestyle modifications, natural therapies, and mind-body interventions. If you’re experiencing menopausal symptoms or approaching menopause, consult with a licensed naturopathic doctor to explore safe and effective treatment options tailored to your needs and goals.

Get started with Dr. Salwan, ND or one of our NDs at Wildflower Health and Wellness today.

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four stages of menopause wildflower health and wellness clinic

Is This Menopause? The Stages of Menopause

Menopause is a milestone of women’s health. But how do you know if you’re going through menopause (perimenopause) or have passed it (post-menopause)? Learn more about how menopause is diagnosed and how you can support yourself through this phase naturally.

Quick Facts

      • There are four stages that women go through: Pre-menopause, perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause
      • Menopausal symptoms occur as a natural shift in hormone production with age
      • There are ways to support your hormones naturally to promote a smooth transition from one hormonal phase to the next 

What are the female hormones and what do they do?

There are two major female hormones: 

Hormone Produced By Function
Estrogen Mainly by the ovaries, to a lesser extent by the adrenal glands and fat cells Effects include regulating the menstrual cycle; maintaining: muscles and connective tissue, heart and blood vessels, brain, bones, skin, and hair.
Progesterone Mainly by the corpus luteum in the ovaries, to a lesser extent by the adrenal glands Prepares the uterine lining for pregnancy; maintaining pregnancy; and supporting thyroid function, mood, and breastmilk production.

Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine, Cleveland Clinic

The stages of menopause

There are generally four stages of female hormones in a woman’s lifetime: 

      1. Premenopause: This is the period of time when both estrogen and progesterone are sufficient in levels to produce regular menstrual cycles and to support a potential pregnancy.
      2. Perimenopause: This means “around menopause,” which begins when periods become less regular, typically around a woman’s 40s. 
      3. Menopause: This stage starts from the last menstrual period until the post-menopausal stage, 12 months later. This stage is typically when menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and sleeplessness are most intense. 
      4. Post-menopause: This stage comes after 12 consecutive months without a period. 

What happens during menopause?

During perimenopause, the ovaries down-shift their production of estrogen and progesterone. When levels of these hormones are no longer optimal to produce a regular menstrual cycle, menopause starts, and so can the symptoms of menopause.

Typical symptoms that occur during menopause as a result of these hormonal changes are: 

      • hot flashes
      • sleeplessness
      • low energy
      • low libido
      • vaginal dryness
      • night sweats
      • weight gain
      • bloating 
      • mood changes

Although these symptoms are common, they’re not normal, and there are ways to support your hormonal transition without experiencing intense symptoms that disrupt your day-to-day life. 

Treatment options for menopause

Treatment starts with proper assessment of your hormone levels, understanding your body’s ideal hormone levels, and how to manage your symptoms as you go through menopause. 

Depending on your case, your healthcare provider may suggest one or a combination of the following:

      • Hormone replacement therapy
      • Lifestyle modifications
      • Stress management
      • Natural remedies, such as botanical medicines
      • Other supportive therapies, such as acupuncture

You don't have to go through menopause or perimenopause alone.

Wildflower clinicians are here to support you through a comfortable transition through menopause.

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The secret ingredients for better immunity

What can you use now to benefit your immunity?

And the secret ingredient is…..

Raw honey

Disclaimer: do not consume raw honey if you are pregnant 

Raw honey includes bee pollen and propolis which contains antioxidants as well as antibacterial and antifungal properties to help build your immune system, heal wounds and fight infections.

The best is local honey usually found at health food stores. Raw honey is not heavily processed and all the nutrients are still available. Another tip is to ensure that you do not heat honey over 95 degrees Fahrenheit as this can also destroy the amazing immune properties of raw honey.

Daily amount: 1-2 tbsp per day.

You can put honey in your herbal teas, drizzle over oatmeal, spread on toast or mix in yogurt.

Herbal teas

Another gentle approach to help support your immune system are herbal teas!

Consider:

  • Echinacea tea
  • Ginger lemon tea
  • Green tea
  • Elderberry tea

All of these can be found at your local grocery store or health food store. Add in your raw honey once the tea has cooled down after steeping in boiled water for 3-5 minutes.

This fall and winter season let’s stay healthy!

How We Can Help

Wildflower Health and Wellness has a Natural Dispensary. We offer high quality medicinal dried herbs, herbal tinctures, and professional line supplements all of which are high quality. Contact us today to refill your supplements for immunity, including: Vitamin D3, Vitamin C, Zinc gluconate, Astragalus herb and Reishi mushroom.