Category: Health

  • What makes people healthy?

    What makes people healthy?

    What makes people healthy?

    Exploring the social determinants of health


    Why are some people healthier than others? Yes, your genes play a big role. But there are other determinants of health that have nothing to do with your genetic makeup. Where you live, how you’re educated, and other societal influences are all important factors in our health. Find out more.


    Two hypothetical kids

    There are significant implications for advantage and disadvantage related to social determinants of health. Look at socioeconomic position, for example: a child born into a higher tax bracket is much more likely to be in a higher tax bracket when they’re older.

    Let’s take a look at the life course trajectories of two hypothetical kids. Joe is born into an affluent neighborhood, while John lives in subsidized housing with his six siblings in a single parent home.

    Joe’s parents are able to afford organic produce, put Joe into private school, and drive him to and from his various sporting activities throughout his childhood. As a result, Joe gets an excellent education that allows him to attend university, secure a job in a top tax bracket, and enjoy an active social life.

    John’s father works double shifts to make ends meet, but the only apartment he can afford has a black mold problem that has given John respiratory issues for years. John’s school is oversubscribed, and he’s falling behind because of sick days. To support the family, John takes a construction job and eventually drops out of high school. Years of manual labor and poor self-care have taken their toll on John, and he lives with chronic pain.

    You can imagine that two very different states of health and well-being are being experienced by Joe and John in later life. These differences may not necessarily be due to differences in the individuals, but in the broader social and economic circumstances in which they find themselves.

    What next?

    To address systemic issues such as the negative impact of social determinants of health, we must look to addressing modifiable aspects of lifestyle at the individual level and systemic inequities at the population level.

    Your DNA is not your destiny

    Although there are many social determinants of health that you can’t control, focus on the ones that you can control, such as diet, exercise, and social connections.

    • Pack yourself a healthy lunch.
    • Go for an evening walk with your partner.
    • Plan a family gathering.

    When you need nutritional help, chat with your health care practitioner. They may recommend certain supplements, such as the following:

    Nutritional helperBenefits
    vitamin Cimmune health, wound healing, bone health, antioxidant protection
    vitamin Dbone health maintenance, decreased risk of cancer mortality, mood stabilization
    vitamin B6red blood cell formation, brain processes and development, immune function, and steroid hormone activity
    vitamin B12brain support, red blood cell genesis support, energy booster
    magnesiummuscle repair, neuromuscular facilitation, blood sugar control
    zincsleep support, digestive support, reproductive organ support

    Article courtesy of Alive Magazine

  • Refreshing Watermelon Popsicles

    Refreshing Watermelon Popsicles


    On a hot summer day, nothing beats the sweet, juicy goodness of watermelon.

    Imagine that refreshing flavor transformed into a delightful frozen treat: watermelon popsicles! These vibrant and mouthwatering popsicles are incredibly easy to make and will keep you cool all summer long.

    Bursting with natural sweetness and hydration, they are perfect for both kids and adults alike.

    So let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe and get ready to savor the essence of summer in every bite.


    Nicole Catenaro

    Refreshing Watermelon Popsicles

    These delightful watermelon popsicles are a cool and healthy way to beat the summer heat. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy the refreshing taste of watermelon popsicles! So gather your ingredients, get creative with your molds, and let the sweet flavors of this frozen treat transport you to a sunny paradise. Enjoy!

    Ingredients
      

    • 4 cups Fresh watermelon chunks (seedless)
    • 1 tablespoon Freshly squeezed lime juice
    • 1-2 tablespoons Honey or sweetener of choice (optional, adjust to taste)

    Method
     

    1. Start by cutting the watermelon into small chunks, removing any seeds if necessary. Ensure the watermelon is ripe and juicy for the best flavor.
    2. If you're using wooden popsicle sticks, soak them in water for about 10 minutes to prevent them from splintering during freezing.
    3. Place the watermelon chunks into a blender or food processor. Blend until you achieve a smooth and liquid consistency.
    4. Add the freshly squeezed lime juice to the watermelon puree. Lime juice enhances the overall flavor and adds a tangy kick.
    5. Taste the watermelon mixture and assess its sweetness. Depending on the natural sweetness of the watermelon, you may choose to add a little honey or sweetener of choice.
    6. If desired, gradually add the sweetener of your choice, blending again until well combined. Remember, watermelons are already sweet, so add sweeteners sparingly to maintain a balanced taste.
    7. Carefully pour the watermelon mixture into popsicle molds or small paper cups, leaving a little space at the top for expansion during freezing.
    8. Place the popsicles in the freezer and let them set for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until they become partially frozen.
    9. Once partially frozen, insert the popsicle sticks deeper into the molds or cups to secure them in place. This will help the sticks stand straight when the popsicles are fully frozen.
    10. Return the popsicles to the freezer and allow them to freeze completely for about 4-6 hours or overnight.
    11. When ready to enjoy, remove the popsicles from the molds or peel away the paper cups. If the popsicles don't easily release from the molds, run the bottom of the molds under warm water for a few seconds to loosen them.
    12. Serve the watermelon popsicles immediately and relish in the refreshing taste of summer. They are perfect for poolside lounging, backyard barbecues, or simply as a guilt-free dessert.

  • CBD Limeade

    CBD Limeade


    Looking for a delicious and refreshing way to incorporate CBD into your summer routine? Look no further than CBD-infused limeade! This delightful beverage combines the tangy flavors of fresh limes with the potential relaxation benefits of CBD oil or CBD-infused tincture. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply want a relaxing drink to enjoy on a sunny day, this CBD limeade recipe is a fantastic choice.


    CBD Limeade

    Remember, it's crucial to follow the dosage guidelines provided with your CBD product and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions about using CBD. So, take a sip of this delightful beverage and savor the unique combination of zesty lime flavors and the potential benefits of CBD. Cheers to a refreshing and relaxing experience!
    Prep Time 20 minutes
    Servings: 4

    Ingredients
      

    • 6 Limes
    • 1/2 cup Fresh Lime Juice
    • 4 cups Water
    • 1/2 cup Honey adjust according to taste
    • CBD oil or CBD-infused tincture as per your desired dosage
    • Ice cubes
    • Lime slices for garnish
    • Fresh mint leaves for garnish

    Method
     

    1. Begin by squeezing the juice from 4 to 6 limes, collecting the juice in a pitcher.
    2. Add 4 cups of water to the pitcher along with the fresh lime juice.
    3. Stir in 1/2 cup of honey until it completely dissolves.
    4. Add your preferred dosage of CBD oil or CBD-infused tincture to the pitcher. Start with a small amount and gradually increase until you reach your desired dosage. Make sure to follow the instructions on the CBD product regarding dosage.
    5. Stir the limeade mixture well to ensure that the CBD is evenly distributed throughout.
    6. Take a moment to taste the limeade and adjust the flavor if needed. You can add more lime juice, water, or honey to achieve the desired taste profile.
    7. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the CBD-infused limeade over the ice, allowing it to chill.
    8. For an eye-catching presentation, garnish each glass with a lime slice and, if you like, a few fresh mint leaves.
    9. Enjoy!

  • What’s the deal with BCAAs?

    What’s the deal with BCAAs?

    What’s the deal with BCAAs?

    Breaking down the basics of branched-chain amino acids.


    BCAA supplements may be the talk of your gym, but are they all they’re cracked up to be? Before you make any decisions, go back to the BCAA basics. Here are 10 things you should know about BCAAs.


    1. Needed by your body

    Getting their name from their “branched” molecular structure, there are three types of BCAAs: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. This trio makes up three of your body’s nine essential amino acids—called so because your body needs them to function, but can’t produce them on its own.

    2. Found in your food 

    BCAAs are found in protein-rich plant and animal sources. In addition to beef, chicken, fish, eggs, and milk, you can get BCAAs from corn, soy, beans, chickpeas, lentils, whole wheat, brown rice, almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds.

    3. Available in supplements 

    If you are eating a balanced diet—especially one with adequate protein—you’re likely already getting enough BCAAs. Still, there are reasons that you may want to add a BCAA supplement to your routine. If you and your health care practitioner determine that a BCAA supplement could provide needed support, you’ll find them most commonly in the form of powders, tablets, or capsules.

    4. Ease muscle soreness 

    BCAAs can aid in reducing the muscle soreness you may feel after a workout.  Known as delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), you may know the feeling best two or three days after a particularly hard workout.  Research has shown that BCAAs, especially when ingested prior to working out, can help suppress DOMS.

    5. Help you exercise longer 

    Studies have found that BCAAs can help enhance athletic performance by reducing exercise fatigue. The reason for this benefit has been linked to BCAAs’ ability to lower serotonin levels and interfere with tryptophan absorption—two chemicals that work to make you feel more tired during your workout.

    6. Protect your liver 

    Studies have shown that BCAAs help protect the liver of those who eat high-fat diets by providing support to gut flora that prevent fat accumulation in the liver. Further, BCAA supplementation has been shown to provide beneficial effects in those with advanced cirrhosis, a severe liver disease.

    7. Prevent muscle wasting 

    Muscle wasting is the reduction in skeletal muscle, which is brought on by a number of causes including disuse. BCAAs can help slow this muscle-wasting process. Separate studies have shown that BCAAs can provide beneficial effects to slow or prevent muscle wasting in a range of cases, including those involving cancer, advanced liver disease, and kidney damage.

    8. Support your well-being

    Adequate intake of BCAAs has been linked to a reduced risk of anxiety and depression, and an improved stress response.  In fact, one study showed that subjects with severe depression showed decreased BCAAs in their systems, suggesting that a low level of BCAAs could play a role in depression symptoms and low energy metabolism.


    Article courtesy of Alive Magazine by Laura Newton

  • Exercise Outside

    Exercise Outside

    Exercise Outside

    Sea-to-sky adventures for men’s physical and mental health


    Do you enjoy exercising outdoors? Compared to indoor exercise, numerous studies have shown that guys who turn the great outdoors into their workout studio are more motivated to exercise, push themselves harder, and feel more grounded and restored. Get started with al fresco adventures.


    Embark on a unique exercise adventure

    “Nothing improves my mood and perspective more quickly than a scramble up a peak on the Great Divide Trail,” says personal trainer Chad Alexander. “When I’m stuck in my head or worrying about something, I remember how alive I felt on that mountaintop cliff.”

    Here are some thrilling activity ideas to inspire your next adventure.

    • Travel from sea to sea to sea on foot by hiking or bikepacking (which is mountain biking fused with backpacking and camping).
    • Go rock climbing.

    Consider scuba diving (or shipwreck diving!).

    • Soar to new heights with kitesurfing (where a strong gust of wind launches you sky-high off a cresting ocean wave or propels you quickly across a smooth lake).
    • Try out hang-gliding or paragliding.

    Forge some friendly competition

    For something a little closer to home, unique team sports can get you moving in the fresh air.

    Ultimate frisbee and disc golf have recently exploded in popularity. The number of local disc golf courses, for example, has jumped by 300 percent in the last few years. Other off-the-beaten-path outdoor sports include archery, handball, and even Harry Potter-inspired quidditch.

    Team sports are some of the best ways for men to build long-term, positive mental health outcomes. “Outdoor activities have changed my life in terms of mental health,” says Robert Puharich, a high school teacher. “Having teammates gives me a sense of community.”

    Rise to the challenge: 3 benefits to pushing your limits

    Testosterone

    Friendly competition in team sports has been shown to raise your testosterone levels. This hormone is key for strength, endurance, and your sex life.

    Motivation

    Once you’ve beaten your competition, or even beaten your own self-doubt, you’ll feel more motivated and driven to tackle life’s challenges.

    Self-confidence

    Pushing yourself on a grueling adventure forces you to tap into your own confidence, self-trust, and skills. Over time, psychologists say, this builds self-efficacy and resilience.

    The best time to exercise outdoors

    With longer daylight hours, your window of opportunity is wide open. The best time to head out and get your sweat on depends on your goals.

    Mornings

    If you’re trying to lose weight, morning exercise on an empty stomach may reduce your food cravings later, and it also leads to burning more fat.

    Midday

    Exercise reduces stress and boosts your energy, making it the perfect escape in the middle of your workday.

    Afternoons

    Your muscles contract more effectively when you’re warmed up. For peak physical strength and endurance, your body’s natural temperature peaks in the afternoon.

    Article courtesy of Alive Magazine by Joshua Duvauchelle

  • Roasted Salmon and White Bean Salad

    Roasted Salmon and White Bean Salad

    Roasted Salmon and White Bean Salad


    If you’re looking for a healthy, gluten-free meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this Roasted Salmon & White Bean Salad recipe is just what you need.

    Salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining good health. When paired with white beans, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber, this dish becomes a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

    Not only is this Roasted Salmon & White Bean Salad recipe delicious, but it’s also a great option for anyone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. By using gluten-free ingredients and skipping the bread, this meal is completely gluten-free.

    So next time you’re looking for a healthy and satisfying gluten-free meal, give this Roasted Salmon & White Bean Salad recipe a try. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household!


    Roasted Salmon and White Bean Salad

    Looking for a delicious and healthy gluten-free meal? Try this Roasted Salmon & White Bean Salad recipe! Not only is it packed with protein and fiber, but it's also bursting with flavor. It's the perfect meal for lunch or dinner, and it's sure to leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
    Total Time 30 minutes
    Servings: 4

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 pounds 2 pounds salmon fillet
    • 1/4 cup smoked paprika
    • 1 teaspoon sea salt
    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1/4 cup olive oil
    • 2 cups pea shoots
    • 1 cup prepared tzatziki
    Salad:
    • 1/2 pint cherry tomatoes quartered
    • 2 Persian cucumbers diced
    • 1/2 cup crumbled feta
    • 1 15 ounce can cannellini beans drained and rinsed
    • 1/2 small red onion  julienned
    Dressing:
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon tahini
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • 1 large garlic clove minced
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

    Method
     

    1. Preheat oven to 350° F.
    2. Place salmon skin side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
    3. Combine paprika, salt, and cumin.
    4. Rub salmon with spice mix, drizzle on oil.
    5. Bake for 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145° F.
    6. Meanwhile, prepare the salad by tossing together tomatoes, cucumbers, feta, beans, and red onion in a serving bowl.
    7. Whisk together dressing ingredients until well blended then toss with salad.
    8. Adjust seasoning to taste.
    9. Place salmon on a platter and spoon dressed salad oversalmon.
    10. Garnish with pea shoots and serve with tzatziki sauce.

    Recipe Courtesy of INFRA

  • Minted Strawberry Lemonade

    Minted Strawberry Lemonade

    Minted Strawberry Lemonade


    For a quick and delicious addition to your summer table try this minty-sweet-tart drink! Try different variations for a fun twist, such as basil instead of mint, or limes instead of lemons! Give it a try this summer to help beat the heat!


    Minted Strawberry Lemonade

    A bright, tart, and sweet summer beverage.
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings: 10

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 32 oz bottles Santa Cruz Organic® Lemonade chilled
    • 9 oz Strawberry spread (see notes)
    • 1 bushel Mint finely chopped
    • 1 whole Lemon thinly sliced
    • A few mint leaves for garnish

    Method
     

    1. COMBINE lemonade, fruit spread and chopped mint in pitcher. Stir until blended.
    2. SERVE over ice. Garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves.

    Notes

    Strawberry fruit spread, or jam, can be used for this recipe. Any other fruit spread or fruit preserve could be used as well.

    Recipe via Santa Cruz Organic

  • Let’s demystify menopause and perimenopause

    Let’s demystify menopause and perimenopause

    Let’s demystify menopause and perimenopause

    A natural and poignant time

    Menopause is so seldom talked about openly. Aside from some of the most common discomforts, menopause is often shrouded in mystery, and perimenopause even more so. Let’s shine a light on both.

    The meaning of menopause

    Dr. Caroline Meyer, naturopathic doctor and energy healer, tells us that, in its most technical sense, menopause is the time in a woman’s life following the absence of a menstrual cycle for a minimum of 12 months.

    Dr. Jeanne Paul, ND, the first First Nations person to graduate in this profession in Canada, shares this definition with her patients: “[You] are entering the age of becoming a Wise Woman, an Elder-in-training.”

    From a medical perspective, says Paul, menopause is when all mature eggs, which have been decreasing since birth, have been used up. At that point, “she will now cease her monthly moons due to decreases in female hormones.”

    The “symptoms” of menopause

    “Many women experience no negative symptoms with this natural change in life,” assures Meyer. Other women, however, experience such symptoms as insomnia, anxiety, memory loss, depression, weight gain, irritability, fatigue, and, of course, those hot flashes.

    Symptoms can, in turn, range in discomfort level from annoying to outright debilitating. Additional common symptoms of menopause include night sweats, a decrease in sexual drive due to vaginal dryness, uncontrolled mood changes, sleep pattern disturbances, bladder infections, and forgetfulness.

    The precursor—perimenopause

    The time leading up to menopause, perimenopause, is a phase of transition when mature eggs are diminishing and ovulation and menses become irregular. During this time, there is a drop in estrogen levels, and women begin to experience some symptoms resembling menopause. Declining fertility, period irregularity, urinary urgency, memory problems, sleep disruptions, and mood shifts are common.

    The transition toolbox

    Menopause is not a disease or ailment, but rather a natural, poignant time of life for every woman. Paul says, “Most cultures view menopause as a natural life process, a sociocultural event, and a positive part of a woman’s life.”

    Partner support

    Supportive partners and family members can have a major impact on a woman’s menopausal experience. Meyer suggests offering “patience and kindness to the women in their lives who are undergoing perimenopause or menopause.”

    A time to turn inward

    Positively managing stress is essential during the peri/menopausal years. Meyer recommends meditation, regular exercise, prioritizing rest and sleep, doing activities that bring joy, and moderating alcohol. And, she emphasizes that moving into menopause is a time for women to finally focus on themselves.

    Natural remedies for menopause

    Dr. Caroline Meyer’s suggestions for peri/menopausal symptom relief; however, she urges professional guidance.

    Natural remedySymptom relief for
    ashwagandhastress relief; immune support
    ashwagandha/macalow libido
    maca/chasteberry/evening primrosebalancing estrogen and progesterone levels
    flaxseedregulating estrogen levels
    cinnamonglucose control and circulatory stimulation

    Article courtesy of Alive Magazine

  • 9 important supplements for women over 40

    9 important supplements for women over 40

    9 important supplements for women over 40

    There’s more than just calcium

    As we age, our bodies can’t absorb some nutrients from food as well as they did years ago. Supplements can be beneficial. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the nine best supplements for women over 40! Remember to consult your health care practitioner before starting any new vitamin regimen.

    1. Vitamin B12

    Vitamin B12 builds red blood cells and assists in brain function and development. Without it, you may experience low energy levels, memory loss, and nerve damage. It’s estimated that 30 to 50 percent of adults over 50 are B12 deficient.

    2. Omega-3s fatty acids

    Omega-3 fatty acids support your heart, eyesight, and cognitive function. Studies also suggest they may play a role in preventing cancer. Since omega-3s may protect against age-related conditions, like heart disease and macular degeneration, experts recommend higher intakes of omega-3s for older adults.

    3. Calcium

    Nearly all the calcium in your body is stored in your bones. When you don’t eat enough of it, your body taps that bone reservoir to fulfill its physiological needs. This could weaken your bones and lead to osteoporosis. In women, estrogen helps the body absorb calcium. However, as you approach menopause, your estrogen levels dip, which results in poor absorption.

    4. Vitamin B6

    Vitamin B6 supports the body’s nervous and immune system. A deficiency may lead to depression, weakened immunity, and certain skin conditions. As you grow older, your body needs more B6. High levels of B6 have been linked to better memory in aging populations.

    5. Potassium

    Potassium keeps your bones strong and may reduce the risk of stroke and high blood pressure. It also supports your kidneys, muscles, nerves, and heart. Unfortunately, certain medications and health conditions block the absorption of potassium. If you’re over 40 years old, ask your health care practitioner if you’re getting enough of it.

    6. Vitamin D

    Vitamin D reduces inflammation, helps the body absorb calcium, and supports the immune system. When women turn 40 and creep closer to menopause, a lack of vitamin D may result in weakened bones and osteoporosis. Because it isn’t found in many foods, and most people aren’t absorbing enough of it from the sun, vitamin D supplements can be beneficial.

    7. Probiotics

    Good bacteria in your gut keep your immune system in check and aid digestion. If you’re stressed, took a round of antibiotics, or have certain medical conditions, your good gut bacteria could get wiped out. Probiotics help to maintain balance, and as you age, you’ll want to pay close attention to the different strains and their benefits.

    8. Zinc

    Zinc supports your immune system and metabolism. There’s also evidence that it shortens colds, slows the progression of macular degeneration, and reduces diarrhea. Since zinc is known to support the body in many important ways, it’s an important nutrient to focus on as you age.

    9. Magnesium

    Magnesium regulates nerve function and helps keep your blood sugar balanced. As you age, a mild magnesium deficit could result in sleep and cognitive disorders. Maintaining normal magnesium levels through the years may help stave off age-related chronic conditions, like heart disease and diabetes.

    Article courtesy of Alive Magazine

  • Ladies, it’s time for some toilet talk

    Ladies, it’s time for some toilet talk

    Ladies, it’s time for some toilet talk

    How hormones and stress affect our digestion

    While women generally have an easier time talking about our health than do our male counterparts, one area in which we lag behind is being open about our digestive issues. Many women have chronic digestive issues that come with us to work and impair productivity, while reducing overall quality of life at home. Feeling stigmatization about digestive issues is associated with decreased access to medical care and greater psychological distress.

    Digestive disease in women

    Common signs and symptoms of digestive dysfunction include:

    • nausea
    • vomiting
    • trouble swallowing
    • heartburn
    • acid reflux
    • burping
    • bloating
    • abdominal pain
    • gas
    • constipation
    • diarrhea

    Women are less likely than men to develop gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, colitis, and gastric cancer. Research shows that estrogen may have a protective role in the development of these particular conditions.

    Women, though, draw the short straw with a higher prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, and colon cancer than men. Women with IBS tend to experience more abdominal bloating, nausea, constipation, depression, and anxiety than do men with IBS. But some evidence suggests that IBS pain may improve after menopause.

    Your digestion on hormones

    Since there are receptors for estrogen and progesterone in the gastrointestinal tract, these reproductive hormones have a bearing on digestion.

    • For premenopausal women, the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle begins with the first day of menstrual flow and ends with ovulation. This phase is marked by high levels of estrogen. Research suggests that motility of the gastrointestinal organs is decreased among women during this time, which could contribute to constipation.
    • The luteal phase of the menstrual cycle begins with ovulation and ends with the onset of menstrual flow. In this phase, estrogen and progesterone levels are low. It’s common to experience loose stools during this phase.
    • During menstruation, diarrhea is the most commonly reported digestive symptom.
    • Pregnancy is supported by high progesterone, which tends to slow down gastrointestinal motility. This may contribute to pregnancy-related constipation, reflux, and biliary dysfunction.

    Food: Friend or foe?

    For most people, fiber-rich foods (oats, asparagus, legumes), and probiotic-rich foods (sauerkraut, kimchi, plain yogurt) are helpful for a happy tummy. But these very foods can sometimes aggravate digestive distress, and this is when it can be helpful to consider small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), FODMAP intolerance (FODMAPs are specific carbohydrate molecules in some foods), and food sensitivities as underlying contributors to your symptoms.

    Along with your health care practitioner, develop a diet plan that works for you. Supplements may also help, which should be taken with supervision. Examples that may help digestion include:

    • probiotics
    • fiber
    • psyllium
    • turmeric
    • peppermint
    • garlic
    • ginger
    • L-glutamine
    • licorice root

    Article courtesy of Alive Magazine