Borealis Naturopathic Health Centre

03/08/2024

05/15/2023

Wellness encompasses a healthy body, a sound mind, and a tranquil spirit. Enjoy the journey as you strive for wellness. - Laurette Gagnon Beaulieu

05/13/2023

Your tongue is an important component of your oral health. Bacteria can be caught on your tongue and spread through your mouth and to the rest of your body which can cause unwanted inflammation which can lead to cardiovascular disease and more.

The majority of bad breath (halitosis) is also caused by bacteria that accumulate on the tongue. By removing these bacteria, tongue scraping can help to eliminate bad breath. As an added bonus, your sense of taste may improve as well!

To learn more ways to best support your oral health, check out our latest blog:

https://whyborealis.ca/blog/oral-health-a-holistic-perspective/

05/12/2023

Prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics are all important players in the gut health support game! 🙌

Prebiotics are special types of fiber that serve as food for good bacteria in our gut. Bananas, oats, garlic, leeks and asparagus are all great sources of prebiotic foods.

Probiotics, on the other hand, are live microorganisms that can help restore and maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. You can find probiotics in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, or in supplement form. They can help with digestion, reduce inflammation, and support our immune system.

Finally, postbiotics are compounds produced by probiotics during fermentation, including enzymes, organic acids, and bacteriocins. These compounds have been shown to have many health benefits, like reducing inflammation and strengthening our gut barrier.

By combining prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics, we can promote a healthy gut microbiome, improve digestion, and support our overall health and well-being!

05/11/2023

Are you still struggling with adult acne despite trying everything you know? You're not alone! Hormonal imbalances are often the culprit, especially as we age.

Fluctuations in hormones, particularly during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause, stress, diet and even certain medications may be the cause.

What worked for acne in high school might not work as an adult because the reasons for breakouts can be different. But don't worry, there are solutions! By addressing lifestyle factors and working with a Naturopath you can get a tailored plan to bring your hormones and your skin back in balance.

If you're ready for professional analysis and guidance on skin-friendly treatments, come into our office. We can examine your hormones, diet, and other possible contributors to give you the clear, glowing skin you deserve.

05/10/2023

Spring is the perfect time to give your body some love with a gentle spring detox 💚

By filling up your plate with seasonal fresh produce, limiting processed foods, drinking enough water, getting good sleep and movement you'll be able to lighten your body's load and open up your detox pathways.

Here are a few easy tips to help you stay on track:

💚 Start by detoxing your kitchen, get rid of any junk food or expired items, and make room for fresh, healthy produce.

✍️ Keep a food journal to track your habits and stay mindful of what you're eating.

👩‍🍳 Prep your meals and snacks in advance, this will make sticking to your plan a lot easier during busy weekdays.

☀️ Don't forget to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather! A brisk walk or jog can help boost your metabolism, up your vitamin D intake and improve your overall well-being.

Remember, a spring detox doesn't have to be hard or restrictive, it's about giving your body a little extra care and attention. Let's embrace this new season with a fresh start!

05/09/2023

New research suggests that allowing a mild fever to run its course may be better than immediately taking medication.

Studies have shown that moderate fever can actually help the body fight off infection, reduce inflammation, and repair damaged tissue - without the need for medication.

While further research is needed to confirm the benefits of natural fever in humans, the shared mechanisms between animals suggest that similar advantages may occur.

Read more on the study here: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/03/230315132451.htm

05/08/2023

Just like the rest of your body, your teeth depend on essential nutrients to stay strong 💪

Calcium, magnesium, and potassium are especially important, so focus on leafy greens, beans, and fresh fruit for good oral health.

Your oral health also influences your gut health, and this relationship goes both ways, as the bacterial balance in your gut will impact your oral health as well. In addition to eating high-fiber, natural foods to support gut health, consider supplementing with a probiotic for a good balance of bacteria, in your mouth and in your gut. As an added bonus, probiotics can improve halitosis!

It may be necessary to supplement your diet to make sure you have adequate amounts of these nutrients, so be sure to work with your healthcare provider to make sure your nutritional needs are being met.

To learn more, head over to our latest blog to learn about holistic oral health care!

https://whyborealis.ca/blog/oral-health-a-holistic-perspective/

05/07/2023

How do you balance your social life with your healthy lifestyle goals?

05/06/2023

Blue-green algae is a type of photosynthetic bacteria that can be found in both freshwater and marine environments. Supplements, such as spirulina, are becoming quite popular in the natural health world - and here is why!

Studies suggest that blue-green algae is packed with nutrients like vitamins (such as B12), minerals (like iron and magnesium), and amino acids. Blue-green algae may also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect our cells from damage and may be helpful for conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

There is also some research suggesting that blue-green algae may have anti-cancer effects and could support brain health and immune function.

Some blue-green algae products are grown under controlled conditions. Others are grown in a natural setting, where they're more likely to be contaminated. Only use products that have been tested and are free of contaminants such as heavy metals, liver toxins called microcystins, and harmful bacteria. As always, speak with your healthcare provider before including any new supplementation for the proper recommendations and dosage.

05/06/2023

A delicious Spring Minestrone Soup with Chickpeas with vibrant spring green vegetables.

Ingredients
1 cup dry garbanzo beans (or sub 2 x 14-ounce cans – about 3 cups cooked)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion – diced (or sub 2 leeks)
2 cups chopped fennel bulb or celery
4–6 garlic cloves – minced
4 cups flavorful stock – veggie stock or chicken stock
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
1 teaspoon coriander
4 cups finely chopped green veggies (any combination of broccoli, green beans, spring peas, kale, asparagus, peas, cauliflower)
1–2 tablespoons lemon juice, more to taste
1 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley or scallions

Directions
Soak dry garbanzo beans in a bowl of water for 8-10 hours. Drain.
In a large pot or dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and fennel and saute 2-3 minutes, stirring often. Turn heat to medium and cook for 5 more minutes or until tender.
Add garlic, cook 2-3 more minutes.
Add stock, water, spices and salt and the soaked chickpeas and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 20 minutes or until chickpeas are tender. Add chopped greens and simmer for a few more minutes until they are tender. (If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse and simmer 3 minutes.)
Stir in parsley, and add the lemon juice a tablespoon at a time, tasting.
Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Serve in bowls and garnish with additional fresh herbs to taste.

Recipe adapted from: https://www.feastingathome.com/spring-minestrone-soup-with-chickpeas/