Chronic bloating is one of the most common reasons why people come to see me. We’ve likely all experienced it on occasion - but if you’re feeling bloated daily & no matter what you eat, it’s time to start investigating. Bloating can be influenced by so many things and often requires a multifaceted treatment approach 🔎 #guthealth #happygut #dysbiosis #gutmicrobiome #sibo#functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #healyourgut #nomorebloating

Managing your stress and cortisol takes a lot more than just an adrenal supplement. While herbs like ashwagandha are great, it’s important to take a closer look at your daily habits to ensure they are setting the necessary foundation for your cortisol metabolism, circadian rhythm and overall hormone health. Try practicing these 3 morning habits daily! Want to learn more? Let’s chat! #healthyhormones #healyourhormones #healthyhabits #hormonebalance #hormonehealth #painfulperiods #heavyperiods #pcos #hormonalacne #pmsproblems #hypothyroidism #hashimotos #burnoutrecovery #adrenalhealth #bloodsugarbalance #cortisol #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

Food sensitivities are often not the root cause, but rather feedback from your body that something is off. For example, overgrowth of bacteria/pathogens, chronic stress and blood sugar imbalances are common issues that promote inflammation and increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut) that can result in the development of multiple food sensitivities. Optimizing stomach acid / enzyme production is a key first step. And stool testing is a great tool for identifying specific imbalances in the gut. Once the stressors are removed, gut healing can begin and the body’s tolerance to foods can improved over time. So if you find yourself having to eliminate many foods just to keep your digestive symptoms under control, let’s chat! #guthealth #gutmicrobiome #guthealthmatters #sibo #dysbiosis #stooltesting #candida #guthealing #foodsensitivities #lowfodmap #ibs #ibslife #beatthebloat #leakygut #eliminationdiet #lowfodmap #functionalmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

Healing your hormones involves so much more than taking a supplement. If you aren’t seeing progress in your journey, it’s important to take a closer look at your daily habits to ensure they are working for you, not against you. For happy hormones, we need: ✨Balanced blood sugar ✨Daily movement ✨Morning sunlight ✨Optimal sleep ✨Stress reduction ✨A healthy gut Not sure how to start? Let’s chat! #healthyhormones #healyourhormones #healthyhabits #hormonebalance #hormonehealth #painfulperiods #heavyperiods #pcos #hormonalacne #pmsproblems #hypothyroidism #hashimotos #burnoutrecovery #adrenalhealth #bloodsugarbalance #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

Just because it’s common doesn’t mean it’s normal. We need to stop normalizing things like constant exhaustion, bloating after every meal, and being out of commission for half the month from PMS and painful periods. It’s so important to listen to what our body is telling us. If something feels off, it probably is. #rootcausemedicine #testdontguess #guthealth #pms #periodproblems #hormonebalance #gutdysbiosis #gutmicrobiome #hashimotosdisease #thyroidhealth #healfromtheinsideout #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

Just a few examples of how good gut health supports your other health goals too! #guthealth #dysbiosis #gutmicrobiome #sibo #candidaovergrowth #foodsensitivities #acidreflux #healyourgut #hormonebalance #clearskin #functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

Low progesterone might show up as subtle, annoying symptoms during the 2nd half of your cycle. Or it might cause a drastic shift in mood before your period that significantly impacts your daily life. Progesterone levels should rise in the luteal phase. If ovulation doesn’t occur, progesterone levels will not increase. That’s why ovulation is so important! It’s what maintains a healthy estrogen : progesterone ratio to keep you feeling balanced. How do you treat low progesterone? Talk to your ND or functional medicine practitioner, we have lots of options! #lowprogesterone #ovulation #hormonebalance #pms #pmdd #pcos #perimenopause #happyhormones #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

This is why you should always get a copy of your lab tests 📋 “I’ve already had blood work done and my doctor said everything was normal” I hear this all the time, yet my patients are feeling far from normal when we first meet. The problem: the “normal” reference ranges usually represent “average” populations, rather than the optimal level required to maintain good health. Most reference ranges are too broad to adequately detect health problems 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 they become pathology. So if your numbers are within range, then everything is normal and there is no pathology present. You are considered “healthy.” MB came to see me with concerns of low energy, hair loss and heavy periods. She was told that everything on her blood work looked normal. But when we took a closer look, we found that: • Her ferritin was 11. This is within range but should be at least 50 to support energy and hair growth. • Her thyroid panel showed a TSH of 3.7 (most women feel best with a TSH no higher than 2.5) and free T3 and T4 at the low end of the normal range. • Her Vitamin B12 was 189. Ideally it should be at least 500. • Her Vitamin D3 was 78. We want this closer to 120. After about 3 months of the correct supplementation, dietary changes and a prescription for desiccated thyroid she was feeling significant improvements in her energy, her hair loss was slowing and her periods were starting to become much more manageable. If this sounds like you, let’s chat! #labtesting #functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #preventativehealth #hormonebalance #thyroidhealth #desiccatedthyroid #periodproblems #hypothyroidism #anemia #fatigue #hairloss #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

Here’s what I want every thyroid patient to know… If you’ve been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, you should be aware that there’s a high chance it’s caused by Hashimoto’s. This is an autoimmune condition that affects thyroid function. We need to check your thyroid antibodies to confirm if this is the case. If positive, this will change how we treat you. Some individuals respond well to synthetic T4 medication, however there are other options for those who still remain symptomatic. There are T3-only medications, as well as desiccated thyroid options, which can be used (when appropriate) to better manage labs / symptoms. It’s very common for patients to be told they have a thyroid condition and be sent on their way with a prescription to take long-term. But if this is all you do, it’s very likely you’ll continue to have symptoms. So many things can affect your thyroid function and how your body uses your medication. Nutrient deficiencies, gut issues, stress and blood sugar levels are just a few of the things we need to consider! #hashimotos #hypothyroidism #thyroidproblems #thyroidwarrior #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

This is the step-wise process that I take with patients to get to the root of their digestive issues. We often start with testing to help identify what could be causing their symptoms. Then customize a plan that works through these steps towards long-term digestive freedom. Once we identify the imbalances in the gut microbiome, such as bacterial overgrowth or yeast, we aim to remove these using targeted antimicrobial herbs. Then we often need to support stomach acid and enzyme production, through a combination of supplementation and lifestyle adjustments to help your body optimize digestion on its own. Next we shift focus on restoring balance in the gut microbiome through food and targeted probiotic supplementation. Along with feeding the microbiome, we work on repairing the gut lining and reducing permeability to ensure the gut is healthy. The last step is all about addressing lifestyle habits that influence digestion, such as stress management, sleep and overall nutrition - key for maintaining a healthy gut! #ibs #leakygut #foodsensitivities #gutmicrobiome #gutdysbiosis #candidaovergrowth #sibo #stooltesting #niagaranaturopath #stcatharinesnaturopath #digestivehealth

So many areas of your health can affect your energy levels. Sleep struggles, poor diet, nutritional deficiencies, anemia, blood sugar issues, thyroid and hormone imbalances.. While we work on optimizing the foundations like nutrition and lifestyle habits, I’m often using functional testing to identify the root cause(s) of your fatigue. If having energy is a distant memory for you, reach out. I’m here to help you get back on track. #fatigue #tiredAF #burnout #thyroidhealth #hormonebalance #nutrition #bloodsugarbalance #guthealth #adrenalfatigue #cortisol #naturopathicdoctor #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath

Following a restrictive diet to manage your IBS and digestive symptoms? Let’s chat! It’s not uncommon for patients to come see me after they’ve been avoiding whole food groups for months on end because everything seems to set off their bloating, gas, pain or irregular bowel movements. Yes, you need to avoid foods you’re allergic to. Yes, you’ll feel better if you avoid dairy with a lactose intolerance. Yes, individuals with celiac must avoid gluten. But tolerating a wide variety of foods, even the not-so-healthy ones, suggests that your gut is likely in decent shape. If you find yourself having to eliminate many foods just to keep your digestive symptoms from ruining your day, it’s very likely that there are some deeper gut issues happening. Imbalances in the gut microbiome, inflammation and increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut) can contribute to the development of multiple food sensitivities. A low FODMAP diet is not a long term solution for your IBS. We need to identify the root cause. We need to heal your gut. We may need to avoid certain foods while doing this, but the long term goal is to get you back to eating all the foods again! #guthealth #gutmicrobiome #guthealthmatters #sibo #dysbiosis #stooltesting #candida #guthealing #foodsensitivities #lowfodmap #ibs #ibslife #beatthebloat #leakygut #eliminationdiet #functionalmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s are not the same thing. Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland. If you have hypothyroidism, but have never had your thyroid antibodies tested, it’s likely because the results will not change your doctor’s treatment (ie. levothyroxine). But the truth is, thyroid medication is not going to fix your Hashimoto’s on its own. To properly treat and manage Hashimoto’s, we need to address the immune issue too. If you’re taking thyroid medication and still not feeling right, let’s chat! #hashimotos #hashimotosthyroiditis #hypothyroidism #thyroidproblems #thyroidwarrior #autoimmune #chronicfatigue #brainfog #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

MAGNESIUM + STRESS 💫 Magnesium plays such an important role in regulating the body’s response to stress. But did you know that chronic physical or mental stress depletes your body of magnesium? Low magnesium levels can intensify stress and anxiety creating a vicious cycle! Magnesium acts like the brake of your nervous system, keeping it from being stuck in overdrive. It works on the HPA axis, the body’s main system responsible for managing and responding to stress, by regulating stress hormones like cortisol. If we don’t get enough magnesium from our food, we are more vulnerable to high levels of stress and anxiety. We might also experience symptoms like muscle tightness, sleep disturbances, headaches and fatigue. When supplementing magnesium for stress / anxiety, I often recommend a magnesium bisglycinate form like this one. There are many different forms of magnesium so be sure to check in with your healthcare provider if you feel like magnesium might be right for you. If you’re looking for a plan to help you better manage stress or anxiety, DM me or book online to work together! #magnesium #anxiety #stressmanagement #adrenalhealth #cortisol #brainhealth #mentalhealth #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath (not sponsored/no affiliation with CanPrev)

The diversity of our gut microbiota can profoundly impact our digestion, metabolism, immune function, mental health and more. Gut dysbiosis is a term that refers to an abnormality in our gut microbiota. This can include too many or too few microorganisms growing in the intestinal tract, the presence of pathogenic bacteria or parasites, or even normal bacteria residing in the wrong place in our GI tract. Functional gut testing can help us identify the specific imbalances that need to be addressed. I take a stepwise approach to treatment that involves: •removing the factors contributing to your symptoms •supporting areas of digestion that may be lacking such as enzyme production or low stomach acid •replenishing the good bacteria with pre/probiotics •repairing gut barrier health DM me if you’d like to learn more! #guthealth #gutmicrobiome #guthealthmatters #sibo #dysbiosis #stooltesting #candida #guthealing #functionalmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

The Gut-Thyroid Connection We need healthy levels of beneficial gut bacteria to convert T4 to T3, the active thyroid hormone. Dysbiosis, or imbalance in the good and bad bacteria, can impair this conversion and contribute to hypothyroid symptoms. Dysbiosis influences our immune activity and is found in autoimmune thyroid diseases like Hashimoto’s or Grave’s disease. It also contributes to gut inflammation which can impair the absorption and availability of nutrients needed for thyroid metabolism, like iron, zinc, selenium, iodine and vitamin D. On the other hand, thyroid hormones influence gut motility which is why constipation can often be a symptom of hypothyroidism. When gut motility slows, this can increase the risk of bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine (SIBO). Suboptimal thyroid function can also decrease stomach acid production - sufficient levels are essential for proper digestion of foods and protective against bad bacteria, yeast and other pathogens. This is why it’s so important to rule out hypothyroidism as a cause of constipation and gut issues. And to optimize gut health with thyroid disease. A holistic, root cause approach to your health. #guthealth #gutmicrobiota #dysbiosis #sibo #thyroidhealth #hashimotosdisease #gutthyroidconnection #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine

It’s Naturopathic Medicine Week! #NatMedWeek2021 Wondering what it’s like to work with a Naturopathic Doctor? For your initial visit with me, we’ll spend an hour together going over your main concerns and health history in detail. We’ll discuss the underlying causes of your concerns, order any necessary testing and get you started on a treatment plan. During follow up appointments, we’ll discuss your progress, review test results and adjust your plan as necessary to help you achieve your goals. Naturopathic Doctors •look beyond just your symptoms •take time to educate so you can better understand what’s happening in your body •work collaboratively with your other healthcare providers to ensure you receive the best care Here’s to #BetterHealthTogether #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath #virtualnaturopath #naturalhealthcare #nutrition #guthealth #hormonehealth #labtesting #rootcausemedicine

You don’t need to accept IBS as your “normal.” You don’t need to eat a restrictive diet forever. You shouldn’t have to settle for mediocre advice like “just take a probiotic” April is IBS Awareness month and I want you to know that it is possible to find solutions for your IBS! Together we’ll dig deeper to figure out the root cause of your symptoms so you can feel your best and not fear food anymore. #ibsawareness #ibs #ibsfriendly #lowfodmap #fodmapfriendly #guthealth #gutheathmatters #ibsdiet #digestivehealth #leakygut #dysbiosis #sibo #foodsensitivities #bloating #ibslife #beatthebloat #constipation #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #niagaranaturopath #stcatharinesnaturopath

Have you been relying on Dr. Google a little too much?😉 You, and your health, deserve much more than what a simple google search can offer! I get asked all too often “which supplements should I take for this” but unfortunately your health issues are unlikely to resolve by simply taking a supplement. Sure, I use targeted supplementation at therapeutic doses as part of my treatment plans, but my recommendations are unique based on the individual patient and also include dietary adjustments and lifestyle modifications to support nutrition, sleep and stress management. These areas of health build the foundation on which supplements can work most effectively. You deserve a comprehensive and individualized approach to your health. DM me to learn more about my approach or book online to start working together!✨ #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #rootcause #holistichealth #naturopathicdoctor #hormonebalance #guthealth #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

Healing isn’t always linear. It often takes time, patience and commitment. It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or if you’re crushing your goals, every step you take towards improving your health is a step in the right direction 🙌🏻. #wellnessjourney #healthiswealth #dailyinspo #quoteoftheday #guthealth #hormonebalance #thyroidhealth #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

Chill out with L-theanine💆🏻‍♀️✨ L-theanine is an amino acid that’s often used as a natural stress reliever due to its calming effects on the body. It can cross the blood-brain barrier, working its magic directly on the central nervous system. L-theanine helps to increase calming brain neurotransmitters like GABA which can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. It has also been shown to increase alpha brain waves to promote relaxation without drowsiness, improving concentration and focus. This is one of the many options that I use with patients (and myself!) to help manage stress, anxiety and feelings of overwhelm. Have you tried L-theanine before? Let me know! #Ltheanine #stress #cortisol #anxiety #chillout #zen #stressrelief #anxietytips #naturopathicmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath @canprev (not sponsored/no affiliation)

Estrogen and progesterone are the two main reproductive hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. Estrogen dominance is a term often used to describe the symptoms that happen when there is “too much” estrogen in relation to progesterone. The thing is, estrogen dominance doesn’t always mean you have HIGH estrogen. There are a few different patterns of estrogen dominance that can result in the same symptoms: 1. High estrogen, normal progesterone 2. High estrogen, low progesterone 3. Normal estrogen, low progesterone Despite presenting similar on the outside, each of these hormone patterns will require slightly different treatment approaches. This is why testing your hormones can be so helpful in tailoring your treatment plan. If you’re struggling with some of the symptoms above, it’s time to dig deeper to figure out exactly what’s going on with your hormones! #estrogendominance #hormonebalance #healthyhormones #happyperiod #progesterone #hormonetesting #testdontguess #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

Does your gut need some TLC? Bloating, gas, acid reflux and irregular bowel movements are common symptoms of an imbalanced gut microbiome. However, there are other areas of our health, outside of the digestive tract, that can be a sign that we need to dive deeper into state of your gut health. Allergies & Food Sensitivities: your gut microbiome plays an important role in your body’s tolerance to foods. Much of your immune system resides in the gut so the gut bacteria will influence what your body reacts to. Skin issues: eczema, acne, rosacea and psoriasis are common skin concerns that are often associated with gut dysbiosis, an imbalance between the good and bad gut bacteria. Mood concerns: the gut-brain axis is a well-documented connection between your brain and gut health. Gut bacteria and inflammation can play a role in mental health concerns like anxiety and depression. Fatigue / Brain fog: if your gut is inflamed, it can lead to increased intestinal permeability, also called leaky gut, which can lead to food proteins and toxins sneaking into the bloodstream and affecting other parts of the body. Autoimmunity: imbalances in the gut microbiome or exposure to pathogenic gut bacteria can trigger autoimmunity in susceptible individuals. Healing the gut is critical for management of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, hashimoto’s etc. #guthealth #gutmicrobiome #ibs #sibo #healyourgut #functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #happygut #autoimmunity #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

The adrenal glands. They are tiny but mighty glands that sit on top of your kidneys and play a role in many physiological processes of the body, including your stress response, blood sugar and hormone metabolism. Your adrenal glands produce Cortisol. Cortisol, your 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗵𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗲, is essential for survival! However, having too much or too little in the body can contribute to undesirable symptoms. Some common ways that adrenal dysfunction can present include: -Feeling “tired but wired” -Difficulties sleeping -Fatigue/exhaustion -Not feeling rested in the morning -Craving sugar/carbs -An afternoon crash in energy -Weight gain around the midsection -Heightened anxiety -Menstrual / thyroid issues This year has been 𝘏𝘈𝘙𝘋 and we’ve all been experiencing significant amounts of stress for many months now. Our adrenal glands have been working overtime during 2020 and if you’ve been feeling any of the symptoms above, it’s very likely that your adrenals (and you!) could use some support. We can check your adrenal function using blood and/or urine testing. There are various naturopathic therapies that can rebalance your body’s natural cortisol rhythm and help you better cope with stressors of everyday life. If this sounds like something you could benefit from, reach out! #adrenalhealth #hormonehealth #cortisol #adrenalfatigue #burnout #energy #stressmanagement #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #supplements #adaptogens #herbalmedicine #hormonebalance #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

Why you should always get a copy of your lab tests. “I’ve already had blood work done and my doctor said everything was normal” This is something I hear very often in practice. Unfortunately in most cases, my patient is feeling far from normal. I’m often requesting copies of my patient’s blood work so I can take a deeper look. The problem is that “normal” reference ranges usually represent “average” populations, rather than the optimal level required to maintain good health. Most reference ranges are too broad to adequately detect health problems 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 they become pathology. So, if your numbers are within range then everything is normal, there is no pathology present and you are considered “healthy.” MB came to see me with concerns of low energy, hair loss and heavy periods. She was told that everything on her blood work looked normal. But when we took a closer look, we found that: • Her ferritin was 11. This is within range but should be at least 50 to support energy and hair growth. • Her thyroid panel showed a TSH of 3.7 (most women feel best with a TSH no higher than 2.5) and free T3 and T4 at the low end of the normal range. • Her Vitamin B12 was 189. Ideally it should be at least 500. • Her Vitamin D3 was 78. We want this closer to 120. After about 3 months of the correct supplementation, dietary changes and a prescription for desiccated thyroid she was feeling significant improvements in her energy, her hair loss was slowing and her periods were starting to become much more manageable. If this sounds like you, reach out! #labtesting #functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #preventativehealth #hormonebalance #thyroidhealth #desiccatedthyroid #periodproblems #energy #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

On Fridays, I’m often working from home reviewing lab reports to put together treatment plans. I use testing often in practice. Yes, your symptoms matter and play an important role in making your diagnosis. But unfortunately I can’t see what’s going on inside your body! Why is testing useful? Testing provides objective information to help us confirm a diagnosis. Sometimes symptoms can present due to multiple underlying factors. In these cases, it is often more time and cost effective to use testing to direct your treatment plan. Testing can help monitor your progress. Obviously symptom improvement is a great indicator of your treatment plan working well, but in some cases "seeing the numbers" is also important to monitor dosing of supplementation or prescriptions. Testing is also useful for health optimization and prevention. If you feel good and have no health concerns, that's great! I still encourage my patients to check-in for some yearly blood work to ensure nutrient levels and metabolic markers are optimal. Many benefits plans also include coverage for some naturopathic testing. When was the last time you had blood work done?! #labtesting #functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath #bloodwork #guthealth #thyroidhealth #hormonetesting

Thyroid + Cold Intolerance Who doesn’t love a cozy sweater on a cool, crisp fall day?! Maybe not if you have hypothyroidism. Always feeling cold despite being bundled up, or having cold hands and feet all the time might mean you’re struggling with cold intolerance - a sign of insufficient thyroid hormone inside your cells - also called cellular hypothyroidism. Cold intolerance is a very common compliant in patients diagnosed with hypothyroidism and hashimoto’s. However, even when put on thyroid hormone replacements such as levothyroxine or desiccated thyroid, and after achieving normal blood values to suggest optimal thyroid function, some patients can still experience hypothyroid symptoms because there are other factors interfering with the assimilation of thyroid hormone 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙨. A test called Reverse T3 (rT3) can help determine if you have cellular hypothyroidism. rT3 is an inactive thyroid hormone which may be elevated in cases of high stress, inflammation and/or insulin resistance. In these circumstances, the thyroid hormone T4 can be converted into rT3 instead of the active T3 that we want inside our cells for metabolism/heat production. A naturopathic doctor / functional medicine practitioner can help you identify and treat cellular hypothyroidism. If this sounds like you, let’s chat! #hypothyroidism #cellularhypothyroidism #coldintolerance #stress #insulinresistance #inflammation #reverseT3 #thyroidhormone #hashimotosthyroiditis #hashimotos #desiccatedthyroid #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #functionalmedicine #niagaranaturopath #stcatharinesnaturopath #thyroidnaturopath

If you haven’t had your Vitamin D levels tested yet, you most certainly should! I test Vitamin D in the majority of my patients and A LOT of them are deficient. An optimal level is between 120-150 nmol/L. In the late fall and winter months, it’s very hard for us (in Canada) to get enough Vitamin D from the sun. For this reason, we often have to supplement. Since Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin, it is important that we test to determine the appropriate dosing for you. Vitamin D testing is not covered by OHIP but it’s a simple, inexpensive test that will help determine how much your body needs to stay healthy this cold and flu season. #vitaminD #sunshinevitamin #immunity #immuneboost #coldandfluseason #nutrients #supplements #hormonebalance #stcatharinesnaturopath #labtesting #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #niagaranaturopath

Ashwagandha is one of my favourite herbs. It’s often used for reducing stress and cortisol levels, balancing mood and supporting thyroid function. Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb which means that it helps support the body’s resiliency to stress. We are often unable to change certain circumstances in our lives, so adaptogens like ashwagandha can help us cope better and reduce some of the negative effects that stress can have on our bodies. I love this particular product by @cytomatrix because it also contains L-theanine which is an amino acid naturally found in green tea. At therapeutic doses, L-theanine helps to calm the mind and balance the nervous system by acting on various neurotransmitters in the brain. Ashwagandha can also be helpful in hypothyroidism as it can help boost thyroid hormone production and metabolism. As always, be sure to check with your ND before supplementing to make sure it is safe / right for you. Have you tried ashwagandha before? Let me know!👇🏼 #ashwagandha #herbalmedicine #healingherbs #adaptogens #adrenalsupport #cortisol #thyroidhealth #hormonebalance #stressmanagement #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath

Bloating is one of the most common reasons why people come to see me. We’ve all been bloated before, but when it becomes a daily thing, it’s time to start investigating the root cause. Common causes of bloating include: - Constipation - Low stomach acid - Gut dysbiosis - Food sensitivities - Thyroid or hormonal issues - Stress - Overeating / eating too quickly - Processed foods + sugar alcohols Chronic bloating is very common, but it’s definitely not normal. If this sounds like you, let’s chat! #guthealth #happygut #dysbiosis #gutmicrobiome #sibo #functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath #healyourgut

Who can relate?! 🙋🏻‍♀️ So many areas of your health can affect your energy levels. Sleep struggles, poor diet, nutritional deficiencies, anemia, blood sugar issues, thyroid and hormone imbalances.. If having energy is a distant memory for you, reach out. I’m here to help you get back on track! #fatigue #tiredAF #burnout #thyroidhealth #hormonebalance #nutrition #bloodsugarbalance #guthealth #adrenalfatigue #naturopathicdoctor #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath

Technology can be a wonderful thing during times like these. Virtual consults allow us to connect from anywhere, making it that much easier to prioritize your health. You get all the benefits of seeing a Naturopathic Doctor without having to leave your home or work, getting stuck in traffic or setting aside significant time in your schedule. Visits are performed on a secure, privacy compliant video platform and can still be covered by your extended health benefits. Though the set up is a bit different, the care is still the same! If you have questions about virtual consults, feel free to reach out 👩🏻‍💻. #telemedicine #virtualnaturopath #virtualmedicine #telehealth #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath #naturopathicdoctor #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #hormonehealth #guthealth #niagarawellness

Post pill acne is a common issue for many women when they come off hormonal birth control, usually peaking around 4-6 months after OCP discontinuation. It’s also one of the top reasons why women go back on the pill. But why does this happen? The pill suppresses sebum production, so when you stop taking the pill your body goes into overdrive production of sebum to compensate. Excess sebum blocks pores which can lead to acne. Your body’s natural hormones and ovulation are suppressed while on OCP. Upon discontinuation, your body experiences an adjustment period where it starts producing hormones again. Sometimes the body needs extra support to achieve optimal hormone levels / balance. The pill depletes a lot of important nutrients including B-vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Magnesium and Zinc. All of these nutrients are essential for skin health. Lastly, chronic exposure to the synthetic hormones in OCP can disrupt the natural gut flora causing dysbiosis and an increase in toxic load. A healthy gut microbiome is critical for estrogen metabolism, so the imbalance in gut bacteria can lead to even more issues with estrogen metabolism and elimination. If you’re struggling with acne after OCP use or looking to prevent post-OCP acne before it starts, book an appointment to learn more and get started. Link in bio. #acne #postpillacne #hormonebalance #skinhealth #clearskin #lovetheskinyourin #acnefree #nutrition #guthealth #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath

Have you been told that your thyroid is “normal” on bloodwork but you’re still experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, constipation, thinning hair or feeling cold all the time? If so, it’s time to get a second opinion. If your thyroid blood work only looks at TSH, you aren’t getting the whole picture. In practice, I use comprehensive blood work that measures not only TSH, but also free T3 , free T4 , reverse T3 and thyroid antibodies. This full test panel gives me a complete understanding of how your thyroid is functioning, which means more accurate and effective treatment to get you feeling like yourself again. Here’s why these tests offer us valuable information on your health: TSH – Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is the most commonly tested thyroid marker. It is often tested as part of an annual panel for patients or if a patient presents with symptoms that suggest they may be suffering from a thyroid issue. TSH is the hormone released from the pituitary gland, which tells the thyroid gland to release thyroid hormones. While this test does help screen for thyroid conditions, it doesn’t give enough information to make a complete diagnosis. Free T3 and T4 – these are your thyroid hormones that are released from the thyroid gland in response to TSH. The first thyroid hormone created is T4. Then your body has to convert T4 into T3 – the more active thyroid hormone. Checking both free T3 and T4 can help identify whether there is a conversion problem contributing to your symptoms. Reverse T3 - Reverse T3 is an inactive hormone. In cases of high stress, inflammation, insulin resistance etc., T4 can be converted into Reverse T3 instead of T3. Thyroid Antibodies – these help identify autoimmune thyroid disease, which can require additional treatment approaches. In addition to a full thyroid panel, I will also look at nutrient levels such as Iron, Vitamin D, Zinc, Iodine and Selenium which are important for thyroid function. #thyroid #thyroidhealth #hypothyroidism #hashimotos #fatigue #hormonetesting #functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine

✨Clinic Update✨ Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health has amended Directive #2 to allow Naturopathic Doctors and other regulated professionals to re-open gradually while following specific health and safety requirements. Though I am looking forward to seeing you all again at the clinic, I will be limiting in-person appointments to only essential/urgent concerns and acupuncture treatments for the next few weeks. In the meantime, I will still be offering Virtual care to all new and current patients. For those of you who would like to request an in-person appointment, please contact me to add your name to the waitlist. Virtual appointments can be booked online. #telemedicine #virtualnaturopath #virtualmedicine #telehealth #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath #naturopathicdoctor #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #hormonehealth #guthealth #niagarawellness

Your health doesn’t have to be on hold. I’m still offering virtual consults and I’m here to support you. Though the set up might be different, the care is still the same. If you have questions about the telemedicine process or would like to book a virtual appointment, DM or email me✨. . . . **Please note I am only able to offer virtual appointments to Ontario residents. #telemedicine #virtualnaturopath #virtualmedicine #telehealth #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath #naturopathicdoctor #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #hormonehealth #guthealth #niagarawellness

Now offering Virtual Appointments for all current and new patients✨ . For everyone’s health and safety, all appointments will be conducted virtually, using a secure video platform until further notice👩🏻‍💻. . If you currently have an appointment scheduled, I’ll be in touch with you to provide you with the details you need for our video call💻. . For any questions or if you’d like to book a virtual appointment, DM or email me! ✨ . **Please note that virtual appointments are available for Ontario residents only. #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagaranaturopath #telemedicine #virtualmedicine #virtualnaturopath #telehealth #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine

Healthy blood sugar balance is key for healing your hormones, improving mood and increasing your energy. ✨ I talk about this topic all the time with my patients because blood sugar dysregulation can affect us in so many ways. Mid-afternoon energy crash? Constant sugar cravings? Hot flashes? Irregular periods? Acne? Mood swings? Anxiety? Weight gain? All affected by your blood sugar control. 🤷🏻‍♀️. . Normally, when we eat, our pancreas responds by releasing insulin to shuttle the glucose out of the blood and into our cells for energy. Excess glucose is also stored in our liver where it can be used as fuel between meals or during exercise. This is a normal, healthy process when things are working as planned. 👌🏼. . What happens when you eat too much sugar or refined carbohydrates? • You flood your system with glucose causing a huge spike in blood sugar levels • The pancreas then makes more and more insulin to deal with the large increase in blood sugar. It moves the sugar out of the blood quickly resulting in a big drop in your blood sugar levels. • This reactive dip in blood sugar then causes you to feel irritable, anxious and hangry for more sugar! Your body also releases more cortisol, your stress hormone, to help bring your blood sugar back up. • This can send you on a rollercoaster ride of blood sugar highs and lows, leaving you feeling crappy all day long. 👎🏼. . How can you balance your blood sugar and avoid this rollercoaster ride? ✔️Make sure you are consuming plenty of protein, healthy fats and fibre with each meal ✔️Avoid added sugars and refined carbohydrates (think white flours etc) ✔️Pair your fruit with nuts / nut butters. ✔️Exercise . . Want to learn more? Let’s chat! #linkinbio🔗 . . #bloodsugarbalance #hormonebalance #healthyhormones #moodsupport #anxiety #mentalwellness #energy #acne #weightloss #nutrition #foodasmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath

Wondering what it’s like to work with a Naturopathic Doctor?👩🏻‍⚕️. . An initial visit with me is an hour long, where we’ll go through your main concerns and health history in detail. We’ll discuss the underlying causes of your concerns, order any necessary testing and set you up with a personalized treatment plan. . A few weeks later, we’ll follow up to discuss your progress, go over any test results and build upon your treatment plan. . Subsequent appointments are usually 30 minutes where we’ll continue to monitor your progress and adjust your plan as necessary. I also encourage general wellness checks a couple times a year to renew health goals, adjust supplement regimes, stay motivated and maintain the positive changes in your health. . I have a general practice with a special focus in #digestivehealth and #hormonehealth. I offer natural health solutions for: • Digestive concerns like IBS, SIBO, constipation, gas & bloating etc 💩 • Hormonal imbalances - menstrual irregularities, thyroid & adrenal health 🙋🏼‍♀️ • Energy & mood support 😴 • Acne and Skin health 💁🏻‍♀️. . . Check out my website or DM me to learn more! #guthealth #digestiondoctor #ibs #sibo #hormonebalance #womenswellness #thyroid #energy #functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #naturopath #stcatharinesnaturopath #stcatharines #niagara #downtownstc #nutrition #acupuncture #labtesting

Have you heard of SIBO before?🤔 If you’ve been diagnosed with IBS and struggle with digestive issues, you should strongly consider getting tested for SIBO! 🔍 — Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition in which an excessive amount of bacteria end up residing within the small intestines. The bacteria that end up overgrowing are typically a combination of bacteria that are normally found in our gastrointestinal tract.  However, they should be populating the large intestine in high numbers, and not the small intestines. The majority of our gut bacteria (98%) is meant to reside in our large intestine, with only about 2% in our small intestines. In SIBO, much more than 2% are residing in the small intestine and this creates havoc with our digestion!👎🏼 — SIBO presents with symptoms that are very similar to IBS - including bloating, abdominal distention, indigestion, constipation and/or diarrhea. Research actually shows a very strong correlation between SIBO and IBS, with up to 80% of IBS cases testing positive for SIBO. When SIBO is treated, the IBS goes away. For this reason, SIBO is now considered the #1 root cause behind IBS!💡 — So if you’ve been diagnosed with IBS and struggle with digestive issues, it’s time to book an appointment and get tested for SIBO. [Link in Bio. Questions? DM me!]🔗. . . #sibo #ibs #digestivehealth #guthealth #microbiome #digestiondoctor #naturopathicdoctor #functionalmedicine #functionaltesting #rootcause #stcatharinesnaturopath

Lab testing can provide valuable objective information to help us target your treatment plan. It takes the guess work out of how you’re feeling and helps us identify the underlying cause of your symptoms 🔍. . . These are some of the testing options that I use to help treat gut issues, fatigue and hormonal concerns. Many insurance plans cover the costs too! 👍🏼. . . #labtesting #testdontguess #functionaltesting #functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #rootcause #hormonetesting #guthealth #foodsensitivitytest #fatigue #adrenalfatigue #burnout #cortisol #hypothyroidism #nutrition #bloodwork #salivarytesting #stcatharinesnaturopath

What are you grateful for today? ✨🙏🏼 . . . . #practicehappiness #findthegood #positivevibes #gratitude #raiseyourvibration #wisewords #happyfriday #inspirationoftheday #qotd #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagara #wellness

Thanksgiving is coming up and it’s likely that we’ll all be over-indulging a little over the long weekend! 🦃. . To reduce the bloating and heaviness that can happen when eating outside of your regular diet, I often recommend digestive enzymes which can help assist in the digestion of your food 🥗. . Digestzymes from @designsforhealth.canada is my favourite enzyme product. It contains a blend of digestive enzymes along with betaine HCL to support optimal digestion of foods. It also contains specific enzymes which aid in the digestion of casein and gluten, two of the most common food sensitivities 👍🏼. . If you often experience bloating and indigestion after eating, consider working with an ND to get to the root of your symptoms. Enzyme support is only one of the many areas to look at when treating digestive issues! 🔎 . . 📸: @designsforhealth.canada #supplements #digestivehealth #guthealth #digestiveenzymes #foodsensitivities #beatthebloat #naturopathicmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath

It’s a great time of year to get your Vitamin D levels tested! ☀️🍂🍁 — Most adults in North America are deficient in Vitamin D! Though this fat-soluble vitamin can be found in some foods, we get most of our vitamin D from exposure to sunlight. We need about 15 minutes sun exposure to maintain vitamin D levels - which is nearly impossible in the winter months for most Canadians! ☀️ — It’s essential to get enough Vitamin D throughout the fall and winter months since it is extremely important for a strong immune system, healthy mood and balanced hormones. During this time of year, the easiest way to ensure adequate vitamin D levels is to get tested and supplement accordingly.💊 — Ask your ND or family doctor to test your vitamin D levels, it’s not covered by OHIP but it’s a simple, inexpensive test that will help determine how much vitamin D your body needs to stay healthy! Make an appointment today to test your levels and ensure you are taking the proper form and dose of vitamin D.👍🏼 . . #vitaminD #sunshinevitamin #immunity #immuneboost #coldandfluseason #nutrients #supplements #hormones #mood #naturopath #healthtip #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #labtesting #stcatharinesnaturopath #testdontguess

These @middaysquares are seriously the 💣. Protein, fibre and super clean ingredients makes this a #naturopathapproved afternoon snack 👌🏼 . . . #bloodsugarbalance #protein #realfood #cleaneats #nutrition #guthealth #hormonebalance #naturopathicmedicine #foodasmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath

Feeling tired? 😴 Naturopathic doctors can order blood tests to check for common causes of fatigue, like nutrient deficiencies, anemia or thyroid issues. These tests are often covered under extended health benefit plans too! 👍🏼. . . . #labtesting #functionaltesting #functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #fatigue #thyroidhealth #hormonetesting #iron #vitaminb12 #vitaminD #testdontguess #stcatharinesnaturopath

What’s in your prenatal? 💊 Unfortunately there are a lot of poor quality prenatals out there, so here are some important things to consider when picking one out! — Dose - it should contain the therapeutic dosages of all the vitamins / micronutrients. Poor quality prenatals will often contain doses that are too low. And, a “one-a-day” prenatal is likely too good to be true, most good quality products range from 2-4 capsules per day to provide the correct dosages. — Form / bioavailability - it should be providing vitamins in their most useable form. This is especially important when it comes to Folate; it should be in the active form 5-methylfolate (5-MTHF), not folic acid (inactive form). — Non-medicinal ingredients - if you see a long list of non-medicinal ingredients on a product, run away. Your prenatal should not contain additives like food dyes, talc, ammonium hydroxide etc! . Want some help picking out the right prenatal for you and your baby? Book in for a visit! Link in bio. . #prenatalvitamins #prenatalcare #supplements #preconception #pregnancysupport #pregnancytips #fertilitysupport #vitamins #naturalhealthproducts #naturopathicmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath

April is #IBSawarenessmonth ✨. . . Have you been diagnosed with IBS and struggle with digestive issues? Consider working with a Naturopathic Doctor! Issues such as food sensitivities, imbalances in gut bacteria (dysbiosis) and an overactive enteric nervous system can play a large role in IBS symptoms. Functional testing and management with natural therapies can be extremely effective at addressing the root causes. 🔎🌿 . . #ibsawareness #digestivehealth #guthealthmatters #microbiome #sibo #foodsensitivities #dysbiosis #irritablebowelsyndrome #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath 📷 @lyonroadart

New onset of acne after stopping the birth control pill? Unfortunately, hormonal acne is very common after stopping the pill and usually peaks around 4-6 months after OCP discontinuation. Here are several reasons why you might experience this 🔎 Hormone Imbalance - your body will experience an adjustment period where it is trying to find optimal, balanced levels of your own hormones now that you are no longer taking the OCP synthetic hormones. Nutrient deficiencies - the pill depletes many nutrients including B-vitamins, Vitamin C, Magnesium and Zinc. All of these nutrients are important for skin health. Gut Health - chronic exposure to synthetic hormones can disrupt the natural gut flora and health of the gut lining. Not to mention that a healthy gut microbiome is critical for estrogen metabolism, so the imbalance in gut bacteria can lead to even more issues with estrogen metabolism and elimination. If you’re struggling with acne after OCP use or looking to prevent post-OCP acne before it starts, book an appointment to learn more and get started! 🔗 in bio #acne #postpillacne #hormonebalance #skinhealth #clearskin #lovetheskinyourin #acnefree #nutrition #guthealth #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath

A little #mondaymantra for you today ✌🏼. . . #happymonday #mondayvibes #affirmations #positivevibes #gratitude #mindset #wellnessjourney #stcatharinesnaturopath #manifesthealth

Have you been told that your lab results are normal but you still have symptoms?🤔. — A “normal” result means that you fall within a reference range that has been established by taking the average of a group of individuals within the population. Yes, comparing your results to this average is important when it comes to diagnosis and assessment of health issues. But it’s also important to note that a normal result doesn’t always mean that it’s optimal for you 🔎. — As an ND, I’m not only making sure that your results are within the normal reference range, but I also make sure that we take into consideration your symptoms and optimize your lab results so that you can feel your very best 👍🏼. — #labtesting #labresults #functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #healthoptimization #stcatharinesnaturopath #wellnesswednesday #preventativemedicine #naturopathicdoctor

Supplementing with a quality B-complex is a staple recommendation in my practice! B vitamins are cofactors for thousands of chemical processes in the body and serve as a foundational way to support hormones, our mood, adrenal health, detoxification, energy metabolism and more👍🏼. — When choosing a B-complex, it’s important to go for quality. Not all supplements are created equal, so I often recommend a professional grade product like this one, that’s tested for quality, has no fillers, and contains the most bioavailable forms & therapeutic doses of each B vitamin💊. — If you’re interested in optimizing your health and wellness routine, consider working with an ND who can create an individualized wellness plan for you🙂. . . . #bvitamins #supplements #vitamintherapy #energyboost #hormonebalance #detoxification #nutrients #naturopathicdoctor #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath

Have naturopathic benefits to use before the end of the year? Why not put them to good use and get some #selfcare acupuncture to keep calm during the craziness of the holiday season!! This is YINTANG #acupuncture point - perfect for calming the mind ✌🏼 — This point is amazing for #anxiety, stress, insomnia and overthinking 📍 — #acupuncture #facialacupuncture #cosmeticacupuncture #chillout #chillvibes #staycalm #relax #stressrelief #mindbody #naturopathicdoctor #stcatharinesnaturopath

Make your health a priority - take advantage of your 2018 health benefits before they expire. Direct billing is available to most insurance companies!#healthiswealth ✨. . . . . #investinyourhealth #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #guthealth #hormonebalance #immunesupport #acupuncture #nutrition #labtesting #supplements #naturalhealthcare #happymonday

It’s officially fall, my favourite season 🍂🍁 Check out my latest blog for some #immuneboosting tips to stay healthy during the fall and winter months 👍🏼. . . . #immunesupport #coldandfluseason #immuneboost #healthyimmunesystem #autumnlove #healthyliving #preventativemedicine #functionalmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath

What Sundays are for. Soaking up the last days of summer ☀️🌿🐶💚 #relax #selfcare #sundayvibes #vitamind #sunshine

Simple #realfood to break my fast. Healthy eating doesn’t have to be hard or fancy! This meal is loaded with greens, protein, fats and fibre to keep my blood sugar stable and stop any afternoon cravings in their tracks #leftoversforthewin 💪🏼 🥗🥑⚡️. . . #postworkoutmeal #intermittentfasting #eatyourgreens #micronutrients #healthyfats #cleaneats #simpleeats #fatasfuel #protein #bloodsugarbalance #naturopathapproved #hormonebalance #guthealth #foodasmedicine #lchf #ketoish

With the Fall season approaching, it’s time for some immune support! I’m a huge fan of Deep Immune by @stfrancisherbfarm. This powerful immune boosting cocktail contains adaptogenic herbs that support the body’s ability to cope with stress, which we know affects the immune system 🍂 . — In addition to a nutrient dense diet and balanced lifestyle, herbs are a great way to support immune function during this change of season. As a naturopathic doctor, I can help you optimize your nutrition and supplement routine to keep you feeling well during the upcoming fall and winter months.🍁. . . . #deepimmune #immunesupport #coldandflu #prevention #immuneboost #immunetonic #herbalmedicine #tincture #adaptogens #supplement #healthyimmunesystem #naturopathicmedicine #wellnesswednesday #nipitinthebud

Do you experience pain, cramping, mood swings, bloating and breakouts with your period? Though common, painful periods and PMS aren’t normal and you don’t have to suffer every month! 😬. — There’s a better way than the birth control pill. If you struggle with your period, it’s time to change that. Let’s chat 🙌🏻. — #hormones #hormonebalance #periodproblems #pmsproblems #happyhormones #happyperiod #pms #pcos #acne #dysmenorrhea #endoawareness #womenswellness #womenshealth #hormonetesting #functionalmedicine #naturopathicdoctor

It’s officially September and back to school 🍂 It’s a great time to re-evaluate your health goals and kick start some positive change before the new year! What are your September intentions? ✨ . . . . #septembergoals #intentions #backtoschool #goalsetter #goalcrusher #freshstart #healthyliving #nutrition #fitness #motivation #guthealth #hormonebalance #immunesupport #functionalmedicine #wellnesswednesday

The key to long term weight loss isn’t counting calories! Eating nutrient dense foods that contain lots of fibre, healthy fats and protein will always lead your body in the right direction! 🍳🥑🥦🍠 . — Looking for personalized nutritional advice to help you reach your goals? I can help! ✨ — #weightloss #bloodsugarbalance #metabolichealth #eatclean #foodasmedicine #intermittentfasting #paleolifestyle #ketolifestyle #lowcarbhighfat #fibre #protein #healthyfats #nutrition #naturopathicdoctor #stopdieting #functionalmedicine #hormonebalance #guthealth #healthyliving

All smiles 💙🐶 #nationaldogday #happysunday #weekendvibes #petherapy #happypup #dogsofigworld #grateful #gsdlove

Happy Monday! What steps are you taking to better your health today? ✨ — #mondaymotivation #happymonday #wellnesswarrior #healthyhabits #healthyliving #selfcare #nutrition #foodasmedicine #eatclean #moveyourbody #exercisedaily #naturopath #functionalmedicine #hormonebalance #guthealth #wellnessjourney

M A G N E S I U M is one of the most important minerals for our health 💪🏼 It is involved in over 300 biological functions in the body. Yet it is estimated that over 80% of the population is deficient in magnesium! Some benefits of supplementing with Magnesium include: . ✔️Muscle relaxation ✔️Improved sleep ✔️Positive effects on bone health ✔️Improvements in carb and glucose metabolism ✔️Lowering blood pressure ✔️Relief from PMS & cramping ✔️Relief of Constipation I often call magnesium the “miracle mineral” because it can have such a big impact on so many health concerns. But as always, be sure to check with your Naturopathic Doctor to see if supplementing with Magnesium is right for you. There are many different forms of magnesium and some work better than others - I often recommend a magnesium glycinate like this one!✨ . . #magnesium #miraclemineral #supplements #supplementspotlight #naturalhealth #naturopathicmedicine #functionalmedicine #nutrition #digestivehealth #hormonebalance #adrenals #naturopathicdoctor #stcatharines #healthtip

Monday morning vibes ✨ #goodmorning #mondayvibes #mondaymood #gratitude #gratefulheart #dailyreminder #positivenergy #choosehappiness #mindfulness #happymonday

Movement is medicine 💪🏼⚡️ This morning it took everything out of me to drag my butt to the gym. But I got myself there and now I feel AMAZING! Remember that your workout doesn’t have to be an epic sweat session every time. Every small effort counts! 🙌🏻 — #movementismedicine #moveyourbody #exercisemotivation #exercisedaily #happysaturday #weekendvibes #workoutmotivation #noregrets #kettlebell #sweatsesh #strengthtraining #liftweights #strongwomen #strongisbeautiful #fitspiration #healthyhabits #naturopath #hormonebalance #guthealth #functionalmedicine

Truth 🙌🏻 — #wellnesswednesday #healingfromwithin #healthyhabits #nutrition #eatrealfood #moveyourbody #selfcare #clearskinfromwithin #loveyourskin #hormonebalance #guthealth #healyourgut #functionalmedicine #rootcause #healthquotes #naturopathicdoctor #stcatharinesnaturopath

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning more about intermittent fasting, the role of insulin in weight management and why the concept of calories in vs. calories out doesn’t work for sustainable weight loss. Thanks @drjasonfung for the excellent read 👍🏼 — #obesitycode #insulinresistance #bloodsugarbalance #intermittentfasting #weightloss #nutrition #goodreads #nerdingout #ketodiet #highfatlowcarb #hormonebalance #naturopathicdoctor #stcatharinesnaturopath #functionalmedicine

No matter where you are on your healing path, I’m here to support you! As a Naturopathic Doctor, my goal is to help you better understand your current state of health and give you the tools you need to achieve your healthiest self 🌿 — #healthadvocate #healing #wellnessjourney #naturalhealth #motivation #encouragement #yougotthis #dontgiveup #mindset #believeinyourself #naturopath

Do you take supplements? Unfortunately not all supplements are created equal and most of the time, you get what you pay for. 🤔 — There are a lot of supplement brands out there that contain low quality forms of the active ingredients, meaning they will be poorly absorbed and used by your body. Also, they are often full of additives, fillers and ingredients that you don’t want in your natural health product! 👎🏼 — Naturopathic Doctors are extensively trained and well versed in the use of natural health products. We have access to high quality professional grade products that you can’t get from your health food store. We make sure nothing interacts with your other treatments and medications. And we will ensure that you are taking the correct forms and dosages of your supplements so that you are getting the most out of your investment! #SeeAnND #tuesdayhealthtip . . . #supplements #naturalhealthproducts #vitamins #minerals #herbalmedicine #nutrients #dispensary #qualityassurance #naturopathicdoctor #hormonebalance #digestivehealth #fishoil #multivitamin #probiotic #magnesium #vitamintherapy #investinyourhealth

Happy Wednesday! This morning, I worked out and took my dog for a walk! What are you doing for your health today? ✨ Let me know below! ⬇️ #selfcare #wellnesswednesday #healthyhabits #movementasmedicine #foodasmedicine #healthyvibes #selflove #wellnesswarrior

A diet adequate in healthy fats is essential for #hormonebalance and #clearskin 🥑 — Fats are the building blocks for our #hormones. Without enough fats, the body cannot make new hormones. This can impair ovulation and lead to hormonal imbalances. 👎🏼 — Fats are also essential for balancing blood sugar, an important factor when it comes to #skinhealth. One of the nutritional recommendations I will often make to those struggling with breakouts and skin concerns is to increase their consumption of #healthyfats on a daily basis, with foods like #avocado, olive oil, coconut oil, nuts & seeds and grass-fed butter. Stabilizing blood sugar keeps insulin levels under control, helping to reduce #acne and breakouts. 💁🏻‍♀️ — Want happier periods and healthy, glowing skin? Book a free 15 min meet and greet to learn more about how I can help!✨ — #fatisback #glowingskin #healthyskin #periodproblems #pms #fertility #hormonehealth #womenshealth #skincare #clearskinfromwithin #loveyourskin #acnefree #antiaging #naturalbeauty #highfatlowcarb #paleo #grainfree #foodasmedicine #stcatharinesnaturopath

Smile 😁 It’s Friday! #tgifriday #happyfriday #weekendvibes #happypup #gsdofinstagram #instasmile @hudsonthegsd

Low Carb, Paleo, Blueberry Muffins - so simple and delicious! 👍🏼 — Recipe compliments of @wholesomeyumblog Makes 12 muffins 😊. - 2 1/2 cups Blanched Almond flour - 1/2 cup Erythritol - 1 1/2 tsp Gluten-free baking powder - 1/3 cup Coconut oil (measured solid, then melted; can also use butter) - 1/3 cup Unsweetened almond milk - 3 large Eggs - 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract - 3/4 cup Blueberries — 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a muffin pan with 12 silicone or parchment paper muffin liners. 2. In a large bowl, stir together the almond flour, erythritol, and baking powder. 3. Mix in the melted coconut oil, almond milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Fold in the blueberries. 4. Distribute the batter evenly among the muffin cups. Bake for about 20 minutes, until the top is golden and an inserted toothpick comes out clean. 5. Cool and ENJOY 😁 — #lowcarb #keto #lowcarblifestyle #ketofriendly #paleo #grainfree #glutenfree #sugarfree #ketomuffins #paleorecipes #paleofriendly #glutenfreeliving #naturopathapproved #healthyliving #cleaneats #highfatlowcarb

Some #midweekmotivation✌🏼 Brussel sprouts are loaded with antioxidants and contain compounds called I3C and DIM that support liver detoxification and healthy estrogen metabolism. Eating plenty of cruciferius veggies like brussel sprouts, on a regular basis, is one way you can support healthy hormone balance ✨ — #happywednesday #veggiepuns #brusselsprouts #eatyourgreens #naturopath #stcatharines #digestivehealth #hormonebalance #detox #healthyhormones #womenshealth

[IgG Food Sensitivity Testing] Always bloated? Having 💩 issues like constipation or loose stool? Acid Reflux? You might have some food sensitivities. 🔍 — Food sensitivities can actually cause more issues than just tummy troubles, including symptoms such as acne, eczema, fatigue, brain fog, joint pain and migraines to name a few. 😕 — If you’ve wondered whether your symptoms may be due to food sensitivities, consider getting tested. It’s a great tool for determining whether certain foods may be negatively impacting your health. Book an appointment to get your individualized report! [link in bio]🔗 . . #digestivehealth #foodsensitivities #guthealth #bloating #constipation #ibs #inflammation #leakygut #probiotics #energy #labtesting #functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #digestiondoctor #naturopath

Clear skin starts from within. ✨ — Using the right topical skincare products for your skin type can definitely contribute to healthy, happy skin. However, without looking at what’s going on inside the body, you aren’t addressing the underlying cause. If your gut is inflamed, your hormones are out of whack or you’re constantly stressed out, chances are it will show up on your skin. 😫 — I’ve personally struggled with skin issues, specifically acne, for many years. As a teenager, I had severe cystic acne for which I tried tons of topical prescriptions, medications, and spent a fortune on skincare products with minimal success. It wasn’t until I changed my diet that things really started to shift. I realized after working with a naturopathic doctor that my gut was a wreck and that it needed some love before my skin could fully heal. It took a lot of time and patience, but it was worth it. Sometimes I fall off track and my skin will have its moments, but that is part of being human 🤷🏻‍♀️. — My experience with naturopathic medicine, to heal my gut and skin, changed my life so much that now it is my passion to help others do the same. If you’re struggling with skin issues and looking for a holistic approach, book a free Meet & Greet with me to learn more about how I can help! Link in bio. 🔗 — #skinhealth #acne #clearskin #loveyourskin #guthealth #hormonebalance #skincaretips #acnetreatment #healthyskin #functionalmedicine #naturopathicdoctor #clearskinfromwithin #stcatharinesnaturopath #cleanbeauty #naturalbeauty #healingfromwithin

Herbal Medicine & Hormones 🌿 — Chaste Tree is a powerful herb often used for hormonal issues, including: ✨ - PMS symptoms - regulating menstrual cycles - breast tenderness - fertility - hormonal acne If you’re experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance, book an appointment to discuss whether Chaste Tree is right for you! 👍🏼 — #hormonebalance #pms #pcos #fertility #acne #periodproblems #womenshealth #womenswellness #herbalmedicine #vitex #plantpower #naturopathstcatharines #happymonday

Happy Sunday!✌🏼 #investinyourself #selfcare #selflove #healthyhabits #healthiswealth #sundayvibes #weekendvibes #wellness #happyhealthylife #naturopath #foodasmedicine #quoteoftheday

☀️🌊👌🏼 #vitaminsea #oceanvibes #sunshine #vacaymode #wellnesswednesday

[Bulletproof Coffee ☕️] I’ve been getting a lot of questions about bulletproof coffee lately. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend it. 👍🏼 — What is it? It’s a high-performance drink that can have a massive impact on your energy and mental clarity! It’s made with: ⚡️ - Organic coffee - 1 tbsp MCT oil (Brain Octane is most effective at raising ketones) - 1 tbsp grass-fed butter or ghee (grass fed is KEY as it contains anti-inflammatory fats and more nutrients than conventional butter) - Blend it all up for 20-30 seconds until it looks like a foamy latte. 🤤 — Starting your day with cereal, toast, fruit, or another carb-heavy breakfast spikes your blood sugar. You’ll get a quick burst of energy, but by mid-morning your blood sugar will crash, and you’ll be hungry, tired, and unfocused. Starting your day with Bulletproof Coffee, on the other hand, gives you three things: ⚡️ - Suppressed hunger. MCT oil balances ghrelin and CCK, your hunger hormones, keeping you full until lunch. - Steady lasting energy. The saturated fat in grass-fed butter slows the absorption of caffeine, which gives you even energy for several hours instead of a caffeine spike and crash. Plus, no jitters. - Mental clarity. MCT oil rapidly converts to ketones, a type of molecule that your brain uses more efficiently than carbs or sugar🙌🏻 — And if you don’t like coffee, you can still reap the benefits by adding butter and MCT oil to any hot beverage, like matcha or turmeric tea. You can also add a scoop of collagen for added protein. 💯 — #bulletproofcoffee #brainoctane #brainfood #fatasfuel #coffeetime #mentalclarity #brainpower #ketones #hormonebalance #nutrition #lowcarblifestyle #lattelove #naturopathapproved #stcatharinesnaturopath

Do you know what’s hiding in your make-up? 🔍 A lot of beauty and personal care products are loaded with chemicals called #endocrinedisruptors that can wreak havoc on your hormones, mood and metabolism. The main endocrine disruptors that we should AVOID include: 🙅🏻‍♀️ * Parabens - often used as preservatives; a “xenoestrogen” which means it mimics the hormone estrogen * Phthalates - often hidden in the ingredient list as “fragrance” or “parfum” * BPA/Plastics - another xenoestrogen that can lead to hormone imbalance * Pesticides/Organophophates - look for products that use organic botanical ingredients🌿 — A good resource to use when searching for #cleanbeauty options is the Environmental Working Group Skin Deep Database @environmentalworkinggroup where you can search products and get a rating based on its ingredients. 👍🏼 — Some of my favourite #nontoxic personal care lines include: Carina Organics, Beauty Counter, Live Clean & Sukin. What are your favourites?🌿 . . . #greenbeauty #organicbeauty #nontoxicliving #greenliving #skincare #skincaretips #hormonebalance #liveclean #naturalbeauty #loveyourskin #naturalskincare #naturopathapproved #wellnesswednesday #naturopathstcatharines

A flashback of @hudsonthegsd to celebrate #nationalpuppyday 😍 Have a wonderful weekend!

So often, women start taking the birth control pill for painful periods, PCOS or to manage acne. The pill is a standard treatment in conventional medicine, so I see a lot of women who’ve been told that it’s the only option to fix their hormones. Unfortunately, the pill (and IUD, patch etc) is only masking symptoms and really not fixing anything at all! 🤦🏽‍♀️ Although it can offer relief in some women, it shouldn’t be considered a “solution” to hormonal imbalance. And it is certainly NOT your only option to balance hormones. 🙌🏻 — If you’re looking for a holistic, root cause approach to your health, click the link 🔗 in my bio to take back control of your hormones! ✨ . . . #hormones #hormonebalance #womenshealth #PCOS #acne #menstrualcycle #endometriosis #periodproblems #postbirthcontrolsyndrome #holistichealth #naturopathicmedicine #naturopathicdoctor

Keto Chocolate Almond Butter Fat Bombs 👌🏼. — * 1 cup coconut oil * 1 cup almond butter * 1/2 cup cocoa powder * 1 tsp vanilla * Sea salt Melt the coconut oil and mix all ingredients until smooth. Pour the mixture into small molds of choice. Sprinkle with sea salt and place in freezer to set for 2 hours. Once set, place in air tight container to store in fridge. Makes 36 mini cups! Perfect low-carb, #ketofriendly healthy fat bomb to curb your sweet tooth! 💯 — #keto #fatbombs #healthyfats #ketorecipes #fatasfuel #ketotreat #ketolifestyle #hflc #lowcarblifestyle #paleo #sugarfree #naturopathicdoctor #happysunday #weekendvibes

Ladies, don’t be afraid of strength training! 💪🏼 The benefits include more than just looking great in your fav pair of skinny jeans. 💁🏻‍♀️ Strength training helps: • Build lean muscle mass (you won’t get bulky!) • Boosts metabolism & fat loss. More muscle mass = more calories burned during the day • Boosts your mood, energy and improves sleep • Balance hormones • Reduces insulin resistance • Increases bone density - essential for reducing fracture risk as we age • Improves balance, strength and endurance • AND it’s empowering!! Strength training allows you to discover and appreciate all that your body is capable of doing, mentally and physically. 💯 So it’s time to pick up those weights - your body and mind will thank you! 🙌🏻 . . . #strengthtraining #resistancetraining #liftweights #girlswholift #fitfam #fitspiration #workoutmotivation #strongwomen #hormones #mood #energy #muscles #strongisbeautiful #empoweredwomen #naturalhealth #exercisedaily #moveyourbody #naturopathicdoctor #happyfriday

Intestinal Hyper-permeability [aka Leaky Gut] is a condition in which the lining of the small intestine becomes damaged, causing undigested food particles, waste products and bacteria to "leak" through the intestines and enter the blood stream. These substances shouldn’t be in our blood stream so our immune system recognizes them as “foreign” and mounts an immune response in the body including inflammatory and allergic reactions such as migraines, irritable bowel, eczema, chronic fatigue, food allergies, rheumatoid arthritis and more. 😫 — What causes leaky gut? Poor diet, medications, toxins, infection and excess stress can all lead to inflammation of the gut lining. 👎🏼 — Symptoms of leaky gut can include: food sensitivities, allergies, IBS/IBD, skin concerns (acne, eczema), brain fog, migraines, fatigue, irregular bowel movements and indigestion, joint pain, difficulty losing weight, autoimmune disease 📋 — How I treat leaky gut: 1. REMOVE foods and factors that damage the gut by addressing the underlying cause🔍 2. REPLACE with gut-healing foods & supplements to support proper digestion🥑 3. REPAIR the gut lining and reduce inflammation with specific gut healing nutrients like L-glutamine, collagen etc.🌿 4. REBALANCE with probiotics to promote healthy gut microbiome✨ — Healing starts in the gut. Book online to get started [link in bio]🔗 — #digestion #guthealth #guthealing #leakygut #gutbacteria #microbiome #gutlove #naturalhealth #naturopathicdoctor #functionalmedicine #labtesting #ibs #foodsensitivities #acne #guthealingprotocol

[Intermittent Fasting💡] — Intermittent fasting (IF) is rapidly gaining popularity these days — and for good reasons! What is it? It simply means eating within a certain daily window of time and fasting outside of that window. There are several different types of intermittent fasting but the 16:8 method is typically the most common. For example, this method would mean eating within a window of 8 hours each day — such as from 12pm to 8pm — and not eating during the remaining 16 hours. ⏰ __ One of the benefits of IF is that it gives your body an opportunity to burn FAT for fuel. Your body is constantly burning calories in the form of sugars (glucose) to stay alive. In order to provide tissues with the sugar needed, your liver and muscles store glucose as “glycogen”, enough for about 12 to 14 hours (unless intensely exercising). After this source of fuel is depleted, assuming no carbohydrates are consumed to replenish stores, the body begins to metabolize fat for fuel. ⚡️ __ Research demonstrates that IF can: 📋 * aid in weight loss * improve appetite control * improve insulin sensitivity / blood sugar * reduce inflammation * increase longevity * improves brain function * decrease cancer risk __ Is IF challenging? 🧐Probably less difficult than you might think! Intermittent fasting seems to simplify things for people as studies show greater compliance with intermittent fasting compared to traditional calorie-reduced diets.👍🏼 __ Keep in mind that IF is not appropriate for everyone, so it's important to speak with your naturopathic doctor or other health care practitioner before implementing IF into your routine. To reap the benefits, it’s important that IF is done correctly!👩🏻‍⚕️ . . . #intermittentfasting #fatasfuel #weightloss #metabolism #energy #mood #longevity #antiinflammatory #insulinsensitivity #fasting #naturopathicdoctor

This Niacinamide + Zinc formula from @deciem has been working wonders for my skin 👍🏼 — A clean diet, healthy gut and balanced hormones are key for healing acne and skin from the inside out 💯 However, it’s still important to be using the right topical stuff for your skin type. Niacinamide (aka vitamin B3) works by reducing skin inflammation and stabilizing the skin’s outer layer. By doing so, it offers benefits such as: increased hydration, reduction in blemishes / congestion and balanced sebum production. ✨ — Having struggled with severe cystic acne in my adolescent years, it means a lot to me to help individuals heal their acne. If you’re struggling with acne and looking for a holistic approach, book a free Meet & Greet with me to learn more about how I can help! Link in bio 🔗 . . . #skinhealth #acne #cleanbeauty #naturalbeauty #clearskin #loveyourskin #guthealth #hormonebalance #niacinamide #holistichealth #skincaretips #acnetreatment #naturopathapproved #healthyskin #functionalmedicine #naturopathicdoctor

Truth 🙌🏻 #foodasmedicine . . . . #nutrition #foodasfuel #naturalhealth #healthyeats #functionalmedicine #paleo #keto #plantbased #healthyfats #eatyourgreens #naturopathicdoctor #stcatharinesnaturopath #wisewords

Have you heard of the adrenal glands? 🔍 They are 2 small glands that sit on the top of your kidneys and play a role in many physiological processes of the body, including your stress response, blood sugar and blood pressure. 💡 — Cortisol, aka your stress hormone, is essential for survival. However, having too much or too little in the body can result in negative symptoms and health issues. These days, we are all under some form of stress and our adrenal glands are constantly at work to help the body cope. Most individuals I see in practice are somewhere on the spectrum between adrenal “overdrive” and adrenal “burnout.” In either of these stages, people tend not to feel good! 👎🏼 — Some common symptoms of adrenal overdrive or burnout include: Feeling tired but wired, having trouble sleeping and not feeling rested in the morning, craving sugar/carbs, an afternoon crash in energy, weight gain around the midsection, feelings of anxiety, getting sick often, and even irregular periods or feeling “hormonal” 📋 — I use various naturopathic therapies to help you regulate your stress and normalize the function of your adrenal glands. I commonly use this product with individuals under chronic stress - it is an “adaptogen” formula which contains various nutrients essential for adrenal health as well as herbs that help the body “adapt” or modulate its cortisol response more effectively. We can’t always get rid of the stressors in our lives, but we can help our body manage stress in a healthier way! ☺️ #adrenalhealth #hormonehealth #cortisol #adrenalfatigue #burnout #energy #hormones #stressmanagement #naturopathicmedicine #supplement #adaptogens #hormonebalance #stcatharinesnaturopath #naturopathicdoctor

Morning rituals 👌🏼 ☕️ #happyfriday #bulletproofcoffee #fiveminutejournal #morningvibes #tgifriday #gratitude #affirmations #mindset #mindfulliving #healthyhabits #stcatharinesnaturopath

This guy never fails to put a smile on my face. Hoping he adds a smile to your day too! ☺️ . . . . #happythursday #instasmile #dogsofig #gsdlove #gsdsofinstagram #happiness #happypup #mindbody #mindfulliving #pettherapy #bestbuds #grateful #stcatharinesnaturopath @hudsonthegsd

Happy Sunday ✌🏼✨. . . . . #sundaymorning #sundayvibes #selfcare #weekendvibes #happysoul #recharge

🔍 If your thyroid blood work only looks at TSH, you aren’t getting the whole picture! If you’ve been told your thyroid is “normal” but you’re still experiencing symptoms of an underactive thyroid such as fatigue, weight gain, constipation or thinning hair, it’s time to get a second opinion! 👩🏻‍⚕️. — The lab range for TSH is quite broad, so as long as you are in the normal range, you’ll be told your thyroid is normal. But when I look at TSH, I look at it with an “optimal range” in mind, which is seen in the research as between 1 and 2 normally. So some individuals might have a TSH of 3, but because it’s in the normal lab range, they’re told that their thyroid is okay despite still feeling lousy 👎🏼. — I use comprehensive blood work that measures not only TSH, but also free T3, T4, reverse T3 and thyroid antibodies. This full test panel allows me to get a complete understanding of how your thyroid is functioning, which means more accurate and effective treatment to get you feeling like yourself again! 💯. — Conventional treatment of hypothyroidism often involves levothyroxine, which supplements T4, the major hormone produced by the thyroid gland. Many people will benefit from conventional treatment, but a small percentage of individuals may still experience hypothyroidism symptoms. I offer desiccated thyroid extract as a natural alternative to hypothyroidism treatment. Contact me to learn more! Link in bio 🔗. #thyroid #thyroidhealth #hypothyroidism #hashimotos #fatigue #energy #hormonetesting #hormonebalance #functionalmedicine #naturopathicmedicine #naturopath #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagara

Brunch is served 🥑🍠🍳👌🏼 . . . . #bulletproofhash #bulletproof #sundaybrunch #sundayvibes #postworkoutfuel #healthyfats #cleaneats #realfood #foodasfuel #healthyeats #brainfood #stcatharinesnaturopath #nutrition #foodasmedicine #naturopathapproved #livenaturopathically

Happiness is a choice - practice finding joy in every single day 👌🏼✨ . . . #practicehappiness #findthegood #positivevibes #gratitude #raiseyourvibration #wisewords #thursdaythoughts #inspirationoftheday #stcatharinesnaturopath #niagara #wellness

One of my intentions for 2018 is to read more 🤓 rather than watch TV or be on my phone/computer. First on my 2018 list is The Plant Paradox 🌿 — This is a very interesting read about plant based proteins called “lectins” which have the potential to cause a lot of inflammation and havoc in the body. Lectins are found in a lot of foods that are commonly perceived as healthy, and there are ways that we can protect ourselves from the harm they can cause. Many suffering from autoimmune disease, leaky gut, and neurodegenerative disease have benefited from this clinically proven protocol. Definitely worth the read! 👍🏼 — What books are you currently reading? Comment below ⬇️ . . . #plantparadox #lectins #autoimmunedisease #leakygut #goodreads #bookworm #stcatharinesnaturopath #naturalhealth #functionalmedicine #happyfriday

What you put out into the world will always come back to you ✌🏼. #goodvibesonly . . . . #goodenergy #gratitude #raiseyourvibration #wisewords #inspirationoftheday #intentions #stcatharinesnaturopath #wellnesswednesday

Here’s to 2018 ✨✌🏼 . . #2018 #newyear #intentions #goodvibes #wisewords #goodenergy #raiseyourvibration #inspirationoftheday #newyearsintentions #selflove #growth #stcatharinesnaturopath