Tag: naturopathic medicine

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Top 3 Pain Management Supplements: Harnessing Nature’s Power for Pain Management and Inflammation

Living with pain and inflammation can be incredibly challenging, disrupting our daily lives and taking a toll on our overall well-being. Many of us turn to over-the-counter medications in hopes of finding relief, only to discover that they may not always be effective or can even cause additional digestive issues, further complicating our health.
As a naturopathic doctor specializing in pain and sports medicine, I regularly encounter clients who are seeking natural alternatives to support their pain management. I understand the importance of finding solutions that not only work, but also provide anti-inflammatory benefits and improve our overall quality of life.
In this blog post, I will delve into three natural remedies that have shown promise in relieving pain, providing insights into their effectiveness and their potential to enhance your well-being. Together, let us explore how these natural options can offer you comfort and support on your journey to pain management and improved quality of life.

1. Curcumin: The Golden Spice

Curcumin is the active compound found in turmeric, the golden spice often used in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. Its anti-inflammatory and pain-relief properties include inhibiting inflammatory pathways by suppressing the activity of inflammatory enzymes like  cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase which works in alleviating pain by interfering with pain signaling pathways and reducing inflammatory pain. It also acts as a potent antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals and oxidative stress that contribute to inflammation.

2. Boswellia: Nature’s Anti-Inflammatory

Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, is a resin extracted from the Boswellia serrata tree. It has a long history of usage in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for the management of pain and inflammation. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting inflammatory enzymes responsible for the production of inflammatory leukotrienes. Additionally, Boswellia might play a role in preserving cartilage integrity, which makes it a valuable option for individuals suffering from joint pain and osteoarthritis. Moreover, it has been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial in conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, and arthritis.

3. Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin

Vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine vitamin,” holds a significant importance in immune regulation. Its insufficiency has been correlated with escalated levels of inflammation and pain. Moreover, this vital nutrient aids in maintaining optimal bone density and muscle function, thereby decreasing the chances of experiencing musculoskeletal pain and conditions like osteoporosis. Notably, maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D has shown to alleviate pain in individuals suffering from conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic back pain. Furthermore, a deficiency in this essential vitamin has been associated with mood disorders, highlighting the link between mental health and pain and inflammation. Addressing this scarcity may indirectly alleviate such discomfort and inflammation, offering potential relief in mental well-being.

Nana-adjoa Bourne Naturopathic Doctor

Dr. Nana-Adjoa Bourne, ND

Dr. Bourne is a Naturopathic Doctor and certified Sports Nutritionist at Axis Therapy & Performance located in Toronto. She works from the inside-out, supporting performance optimization and injury recovery alongside physical rehabilitation. She also incorporates IV Therapy into her treatment protocols

Learn More About Dr. Bourne

Axis Therapy & Performance – Physiotherapy, Chiropractor, RMT Scarborough
1585 Markham Rd, Unit 308
Scarborough, ON M1B 2W1
(647)350-2766
scarborough@axistoronto.com

Book At Scarborough

Axis Therapy & Performance – Physiotherapy, Chiropractor, RMT, Naturopath Riverdale
377 Broadview Ave, Unit 101
Toronto, ON M4K 2M7
(416)462-0005
riverdale@axistoronto.com

Book At Riverdale
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Top 3 Reasons Your Muscles Keep Cramping

muscle cramping relief

Muscle cramps and spasms can be incredibly uncomfortable and painful. These involuntary muscle contractions can disrupt your daily life and are often a sign of an underlying issue. Outside of making it difficult to perform at your best during physical activity, muscle spasms can happen unexpectedly, like at night, disrupting sleep and making recovery that much more difficult. In this blog post, we will explore the causes of cramps and muscle spasms and provide you with practical tips on how to reduce and prevent them.

Understanding Muscle Cramps and Spasms

Muscle cramps and spasms can occur for various reasons. In order to combat these things, read below for our TOP 3 reasons that help our athletes understand where their cramps and muscle spasms are coming from: 

1.You’re not properly hydrated: Staying properly hydrated is crucial for muscle function. Dehydration can lead to imbalances in electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which are essential for muscle contractions.

2. You skipped your warm-up or cool-down: Warming up before exercise helps prepare your muscles for activity by increasing blood flow and flexibility. This can reduce the risk of cramps during your workout.

3. Your electrolytes are off balance: Electrolytes play a critical role in muscle contraction and relaxation. Imbalances can lead to cramps and spasms.

What it boils down to, how well is your body chemistry for supporting your performance and recovery goals? Electrolyte imbalances, dehydration and improper blood circulation all involve disturbances in the body’s essential mineral ions like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. These minerals play a crucial role in muscle function and nerve signaling. When their levels are disrupted, it can disrupt the delicate balance required for muscle contraction and relaxation. Low potassium, for example, can lead to muscle weakness and cramps. Similarly, inadequate calcium and magnesium can cause muscle spasms.

Chronic electrolyte imbalances may result from conditions like kidney disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, or excessive sweating. Left untreated, they can lead to more severe issues such as heart arrhythmias, seizures, and organ dysfunction. Maintaining proper electrolyte levels is vital for overall health and muscle function.

What can you do about it?

  • Make it a habit to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day, paying extra attention to hydration before, during, and after physical activity.
  • Consider incorporating electrolyte-rich fluids, such as natural sports drinks or coconut water, during intense exercise to replenish lost electrolytes.
  • A proper warm-up typically includes light aerobic activity, dynamic stretching, and gradually increasing the intensity of your movements.
  • Cooling down after exercise involves gentle stretching and low-intensity activities, which help your muscles relax and prevent post-workout cramps.
  • Maintain a balanced diet that includes foods rich in electrolytes like potassium (e.g., bananas, sweet potatoes), magnesium (e.g., nuts, seeds), and calcium (e.g., dairy products, leafy greens).

Reducing cramps and muscle spasms involves a combination of lifestyle changes, proper hydration, and dietary changes. While occasional cramps are common and usually harmless, if you are getting persistent or severe cramping, it may indicate an underlying problem that requires more attention. Speaking to a healthcare provider like a naturopathic doctor can help you get to the bottom of why the cramping keeps coming back and holding you back from getting the performance goals you’re looking for. Getting a full health assessment, including bloodwork and a diet & lifestyle assessment will help you see if you are missing any key nutrients that can help with decreasing your cramping and improving your performance. By taking steps to maintain muscle health and overall well-being, you can make sure your body is performing at its highest potential, whether you are competing for gold, or playing with your kids at home.

Nana-adjoa Bourne Naturopathic Doctor

Dr. Nana-Adjoa Bourne, ND

Dr. Bourne is a Naturopathic Doctor and certified Sports Nutritionist at Axis Therapy & Performance located in Toronto. She works from the inside-out, supporting performance optimization and injury recovery alongside physical rehabilitation. She also incorporates IV Therapy into her treatment protocols

Learn More About Dr. Bourne

Axis Therapy & Performance – Physiotherapy, Chiropractor, RMT Scarborough
1585 Markham Rd, Unit 308
Scarborough, ON M1B 2W1
(647)350-2766
scarborough@axistoronto.com

Book At Scarborough

Axis Therapy & Performance – Physiotherapy, Chiropractor, RMT, Naturopath Riverdale
377 Broadview Ave, Unit 101
Toronto, ON M4K 2M7
(416)462-0005
riverdale@axistoronto.com

Book At Riverdale
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Fat vs Muscle: Not all 5lbs Are Made Equal

When it comes to fitness and body composition, the number on the scale is just the tip of the iceberg. The composition of your body matters as much, if not more, than your total weight. In this blog post, we’re going to dive deep into the differences between 5 pounds of muscle and 5 pounds of fat, shedding light on why it’s essential to focus on more than just the numbers.

muscle is more dense

One of the first and most striking differences between muscle and fat is their density. Muscle is denser than fat, meaning it takes up less space for the same weight. This is why someone with more muscle mass can appear leaner and more toned, even if they weigh the same as someone with more fat. In contrast, fat is bulkier and takes up more space under your skin.

To put it simply, imagine a pound of feathers and a pound of bricks. Both weigh the same, but the bricks occupy far less space than the feathers. Similarly, 5 pounds of muscle will look and feel much more compact than 5 pounds of fat.

MUSCLE BURNS MORE CALORIES

Another significant difference is that muscle is metabolically active tissue, whereas fat is not. Muscle requires more energy to maintain, so it contributes to your basal metabolic rate (BMR) – the number of calories your body burns at rest. In contrast, fat is largely metabolically inactive and does not contribute as much to how many calories your body burns at rest.

This means that having more muscle mass can boost your metabolism, making it easier to maintain or lose weight, support hormone regulation and digestion. It’s like having a built-in calorie-burning engine in your body. On the other hand, excess fat can slow down your metabolism, making weight management more challenging.

Muscle Supports Functional Strength

Muscle isn’t just about aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in your overall physical function. Having more muscle mass can improve your strength, balance, and mobility, making everyday tasks easier and reducing the risk of injury. Whether you’re carrying groceries, playing sports, or simply getting up from a chair, strong muscles are your allies.

Excess Fat Storage Can Contribute to Other Health Conditions

Fat serves as an energy reserve, but excessive fat storage can have health implications. Excess body fat, especially when concentrated around the abdomen, is associated with an increased risk of various health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. On the other hand, a higher percentage of muscle can be associated with improved insulin sensitivity and better overall health.

Muscle Wins The Battle

In the battle of 5 pounds of muscle versus 5 pounds of fat, it’s clear that muscle comes out on top in terms of density, metabolic activity, and overall health benefits. While the number on the scale may not change much, focusing on building and preserving muscle can lead to a leaner, healthier, and more functional body.

So, remember that your fitness journey should go beyond just losing weight. Aim to build and maintain muscle, not only for a toned appearance but also for the numerous health advantages it brings. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or someone just starting their journey, understanding these differences can help you make more informed choices about your health and well-being.

If you’re looking for help to get started and want to build the health you know you deserve, our team will support you. It’s important to make sure as you start you include the right foods to eat, the proper exercises to do, and to make sure the program is giving all the benefits without compromising any other aspects of your health, such as injured joints or poor sleep or over-exercising stress. Understanding how to program or train for muscle building takes time to add it into your daily routine. Work with us, and we’ll get you there!

Nana-adjoa Bourne Naturopathic Doctor

Dr. Nana-Adjoa Bourne, ND

Dr. Bourne is a Naturopathic Doctor and certified Sports Nutritionist at Axis Therapy & Performance located in Toronto. She works from the inside-out, supporting performance optimization and injury recovery alongside physical rehabilitation. She also incorporates IV Therapy into her treatment protocols

Learn More About Dr. Bourne

Axis Therapy & Performance – Physiotherapy, Chiropractor, RMT Scarborough
1585 Markham Rd, Unit 308
Scarborough, ON M1B 2W1
(647)350-2766
scarborough@axistoronto.com

Book At Scarborough

Axis Therapy & Performance – Physiotherapy, Chiropractor, RMT, Naturopath Riverdale
377 Broadview Ave, Unit 101
Toronto, ON M4K 2M7
(416)462-0005
riverdale@axistoronto.com

Book At Riverdale
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Can a Naturopathic Doctor Help With Diabetes?

manage diabetes with a naturopath

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a prevalent chronic medical condition that affects millions of people all across the world. One of the key factors contributing to diabetes is insulin resistance. In this blog post, we will dive into the relationship between diabetes and insulin resistance, exploring causes, symptoms, and management strategies.

Diabetes is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, commonly referred to as high blood sugar. The two main types of diabetes are Type 1 and Type 2.

Type 1 Diabetes: This form of diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, people with Type 1 diabetes do not produce insulin and require lifelong insulin replacement therapy.

Type 2 Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is primarily characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion. In this condition, the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. It is often associated with lifestyle factors such as poor diet, sedentary behavior, and obesity.

What is Insulin Resistance?

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. When we eat, the body releases insulin to help glucose enter cells, where it is used for energy or stored for later use. However, in individuals with insulin resistance, the body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin, making it difficult for glucose to enter the cells.

In order to compensate, the pancreas produces more insulin to overcome this resistance. Over time, this can lead to elevated insulin levels in the blood, a condition known as hyperinsulinemia. If left unmanaged, insulin resistance can progress to Type 2 diabetes.

Causes of Insulin Resistance

  • Obesity: Excess body fat, particularly visceral fat around the abdomen, is a major risk factor for insulin resistance. Adipose tissue releases inflammatory molecules that can interfere with insulin signaling.
  • Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to obesity and insulin resistance.
  • Genetics: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to insulin resistance.
  • Poor Diet: Consuming a diet high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and saturated fats can contribute to insulin resistance.
  • Hormonal Changes: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hormonal disorders can lead to insulin resistance.

Symptoms of Insulin Resistance

  • High blood sugar levels
  • Fatigue
  • Increased hunger
  • Frequent urination
  • Increased thirst
  • Weight gain, especially around the abdomen
  • Skin changes, such as dark patches (acanthosis nigricans)

How can a Naturopath Help Manage Diabetes

Nutritional Counseling: A Naturopath may recommend dietary changes to help stabilize blood sugar levels.Emphasis on whole, unprocessed foods, high-fiber foods, and low-glycemic index foods

Supplementation: Some supplements  may help manage blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Naturopaths may suggest specific nutritional supplements, such as chromium, magnesium, and alpha-lipoic acid, which have been associated with improved blood sugar control.Vitamin D supplementation, as vitamin D deficiency is common in individuals with diabetes.

Lifestyle Modifications:Support and encouragement around activity and stress reduction techniques.

Detoxification: Some Naturopaths may recommend detoxification protocols to support the body’s natural detox processes, which can have a positive impact on overall health.

Weight Management: Naturopaths can provide guidance on healthy weight loss strategies, as obesity is a risk factor for both diabetes and insulin resistance.

Education and Monitoring:Patient education about blood sugar monitoring and self-care. As well as collaboration with conventional healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective management of diabetes and insulin resistance.

naturopathic doctor diabetes management

It’s essential for individuals with diabetes and insulin resistance to work closely with healthcare professionals, including naturopaths, and to inform all providers about their medical history and current treatment plans. Diabetes and insulin resistance are closely intertwined. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and management strategies for these conditions is essential for preventing and effectively managing them. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and working closely with healthcare professionals like a Naturopathic Doctor, individuals can take control of their health and reduce the impact of diabetes and insulin resistance on their lives.

Nana-adjoa Bourne Naturopathic Doctor

Dr. Nana-Adjoa Bourne, ND

Dr. Bourne is a naturopathic doctor at Axis Therapy & Performance located in Toronto. She has a passion for helping managing pain, hormones & digestion. She also incorporates IV Therapy into her treatment protocols

Learn More About Dr. Bourne

Axis Therapy & Performance – Physiotherapy, Chiropractor, RMT Scarborough
1585 Markham Rd, Unit 308
Scarborough, ON M1B 2W1
(647)350-2766
scarborough@axistoronto.com

Book At Scarborough

Axis Therapy & Performance – Physiotherapy, Chiropractor, RMT, Naturopath Riverdale
377 Broadview Ave, Unit 101
Toronto, ON M4K 2M7
(416)462-0005
riverdale@axistoronto.com

Book At Riverdale