http://insidetorontoblogs.com/naturopathicperspectives Kerri-Lynn Lapointe, ND, shares naturopathic strategies for healthy living Wed, 05 Aug 2009 19:04:43 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en When it comes to deodorant, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with the choices. There are brands that are marketed to men, those made specifically for women, those that last all day, extra-strength varieties, deodorants, and anti-perspirants, all which come in a variety of scents. One thing most people aren’t doing ... http://insidetorontoblogs.com/naturopathicperspectives/2009/08/05/deodorant-alternatives/ Numerous studies have shown that eating a healthy breakfast helps to increase concentration, energy, and performance, while boosting metabolism and balancing blood sugar levels for weight management. Eating in the morning decreases the likelihood of snacking on unhealthy foods before lunch (it is much easier to say “no” to ... http://insidetorontoblogs.com/naturopathicperspectives/2009/07/21/the-importance-of-eating-breakfast/ I estimate that over half of my patients have suffered from hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. Although this is often not the reason they seek naturopathic care, these patients often present with digestive troubles, high stress levels, and report discomfort when passing stool. Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed ... http://insidetorontoblogs.com/naturopathicperspectives/2009/06/18/are-you-suffering-from-hemorrhoids/ Recently, there has been an influx of “new and improved” yogurts in the grocery store aisles. These yogurt brands have great marketing strategies designed to make you think that their yogurt is healthier due to “unique” strains of probiotics, and added vitamins, fibre and omega 3 essential fatty acids. There ... http://insidetorontoblogs.com/naturopathicperspectives/2009/05/29/all-about-yogurt/ As the warmer weather approaches, I’ve seen numerous patients presenting with symptoms of coughing, stuffy nose, sneezing, fever, and body aches. In addition to feeling lethargic, there is added stress that they may be suffering from the swine flu (H1N1 influenza strain.) Should you be concerned? Here are some important ... http://insidetorontoblogs.com/naturopathicperspectives/2009/05/15/seasonal-flu-or-swine-flu/ Dietary fibre, both soluble and insoluble, comes from eating the indigestible cell wall of plants.  Fibre is found in fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes.  Most people seem to know that they should be eating enough fibre, but many do not know why they need to eat it, what type is ... http://insidetorontoblogs.com/naturopathicperspectives/2009/03/25/fibre-fibre-fibre/ Proper hand washing is the number one way to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria. “Germs” can be transferred to others by casual contact or you can infect yourself by touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Unfortunately, most of us do not practice good hand washing technique, nor do ... http://insidetorontoblogs.com/naturopathicperspectives/2009/03/10/the-hows-and-whys-of-hand-washing/ Unbeknownst to most people, in addition to the brain in our skull, we also have a brain in our gut. This brain is responsible for emotional gut reactions (“butterflies” and “sinking” in the pits of our stomach when something doesn’t feel right.) Here are some more interesting facts regarding ... http://insidetorontoblogs.com/naturopathicperspectives/2009/02/24/your-second-brain/ As we settle into the second half of winter, we also settle into shorter days, greyer skies, and colder weather. January and February are the toughest months in terms of maintaining motivation, optimism, and high spirits. Whether you suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder or just a gloomy mood, the consequences ... http://insidetorontoblogs.com/naturopathicperspectives/2009/01/07/how-to-beat-those-winter-blues/ Limit your sugar intake. Sugar depresses our immune systems and makes us more susceptible to catching viruses. Although refined sugar is the biggest culprit, also be mindful of how much fruit and fruit juice you are consuming. Aim for 7-8 ... http://insidetorontoblogs.com/naturopathicperspectives/2008/12/12/10-ways-to-stay-flu-free-this-season/