20/Feb/2024

I recently had a female patient come in with some concerns related to her menstrual cycle and fibroids. I decided to run a full panel of blood tests and discovered a low vitamin D level but a high calcium level. This is an unusual finding as calcium tends to be normal or low with a low vitamin D level. I immediately sent the patient for a serum Parathyroid Hormone test and it turned out to be elevated. That is what inspired me to write todays blog article.

In the intricate orchestra of human physiology, the parathyroid gland is a minuscule yet fundamental player. Despite its small size, this tiny gland, nestled within the larger thyroid, wields significant influence over a critical aspect of human health: calcium regulation. This comprehensive guide aims to cast a bright, educational spotlight on the parathyroid, offering insights into its anatomy, functions, associated disorders, diagnostic methods, and essential roles in maintaining overall health.

Chapter 1: The Parathyroid Gland Unveiled

Understanding Its Anatomy

The parathyroid gland is typically made up of four small, pea-sized nodules located behind the thyroid gland in the neck. These glands, rich in vascular tissue, are integral in the body’s calcium homeostasis, ensuring that levels of this crucial mineral are maintained within the narrow range necessary for normal cell function.

The Vital Role in Calcium Regulation

Calcium is a multi-functional mineral; it’s ubiquitous in the body, integral for nerve conduction, muscle function, blood coagulation, and bone health. The parathyroid hormone (PTH) is the orchestra conductor that maintains the body’s calcium levels, doing so through interactions with the bones, kidneys, and intestines.

Chapter 2: Parathyroid Disorders

Hyperparathyroidism: When Too Much of a Good Thing Goes Awry

Occurring when the parathyroid glands produce too much PTH, hyperparathyroidism can lead to hypercalcemia, a high level of calcium in the blood. This condition can result from a benign tumour on the gland or be a consequence of kidney failure, which impairs calcium excretion.

Hypoparathyroidism: The Paradox of Calcium Insufficiency

Conversely, hypoparathyroidism entails underproduction of PTH, which results in hypocalcemia, or low calcium levels. Autoimmune diseases, injury to the glands during surgery, or genetic disorders can be underlying causes of hypoparathyroidism, leading to symptoms like muscle spasms and mood changes.

Chapter 3: Diagnosis and Treatment

Identifying Parathyroid Disorders

The intricate balance of calcium regulation means that symptoms can be as varied as the diseases themselves. Blood tests to measure PTH and calcium levels, along with imaging studies such as neck ultrasounds, and CT scans, are standard diagnostic tools to elucidate parathyroid issues.

Restoring Balance: Treatment of Parathyroid Disorders

Treatment for parathyroid disorders can range from watchful waiting to managing symptoms with medications. In severe cases, surgical removal of the affected gland, known as a parathyroidectomy, may be the necessary recourse to restore optimal calcium balance.

Chapter 4: The Parathyroid’s Influence on Overall Health

The Bone of Contention: Parathyroid and Skeletal Health

Parathyroid disorders not only discompose the orchestra of calcium balance but have specific ramifications for bone health. Hyperparathyroidism, in particular, can cause weakened bones, a condition known as osteoporosis, affecting an individual’s mobility and overall quality of life.

Building the Big Picture: The Parathyroid’s Interaction with Other Organs

The parathyroid isn’t an island. Its intricate interplay with other organs, particularly the kidneys and the thyroid, further underscores its crucial role in maintaining the complex health harmony within the body. Understanding these interactions sheds light on the far-reaching effects of parathyroid disorders.

Chapter 5: The Future of Parathyroid Research and Health

Advances in Understanding and Treating Parathyroid Disorders

Research and advancements in parathyroid health are crucial as they pave the way for better diagnostic tools and more nuanced treatment options. Genetic studies and the development of targeted therapies are high on the agenda, promising a brighter outlook for those battling parathyroid disorders.

The Power of Prevention and Awareness

Empowerment through knowledge and awareness is the key to preventing and managing parathyroid disorders. Efforts to promote healthy lifestyle choices, regular health screenings, and the dissemination of information on early warning signs can significantly impact the management of parathyroid disorders.

Chapter 6: External Resources and Further Reading

For those interested in further exploration, a wealth of resources is available, including academic journals, medical databases, and reputable health organizations. The complexity and importance of parathyroid health demand continual learning and a collaborative approach among healthcare professionals, patients, and researchers.

Hyperparathyroidism

Parathyroid Research

In conclusion, the parathyroid gland may be petite, but its position as a regulator of calcium and a pivotal player in human health underscores its colossal importance. Its impact extends beyond its modest physical frame, making it an organ worth acknowledging and understanding in the broader tapestry of the human body.

DoctorShawn

17/Oct/2023

Blood tests are a vital tool that doctors use to detect and diagnose a wide range of conditions. From evaluating organ function to monitoring cholesterol levels, these tests give doctors valuable information about a patient’s health. However, the question remains, how often should you have your blood checked? In this post, we will explore the benefits of regular blood testing for prevention versus disease-tracking.

Prevention versus Disease Management

Prevention is the key to good health. Some blood tests can detect early warning signs of diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, allowing for immediate treatment. For instance, a fasting blood sugar test can detect early stages of diabetes, allowing for lifestyle modification, and dietary change. Likewise, a lipid panel test can detect high cholesterol levels, and routine screenings could help reduce risks related to cardiovascular disease.

CEA

Preventative blood tests are especially important for individuals with a family history of certain conditions. For example, if your family has a history of colon cancer carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) can be a useful screening tool for colorectal cancer. CEA is a protein that is often found in higher quantities in those with this type of cancer. Regular CEA testing can help detect the disease at an early stage, making treatment more effective and increasing the chances of survival.

PSA

Similarly, some experts recommend regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests starting at age 40, especially for men who have a family history of prostate cancer. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening in men as early as 40 years of age could potentially help identify those at risk of developing prostate cancer. Men aged 40-49 years with a baseline PSA level above 1.0 ng/mL have been found to have a significant risk of prostate cancer diagnosis, suggesting the need for more regular monitoring.

Hormones

Hormone screening, particularly of sex hormones such as testosterone in men, and estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone in women, is a critical aspect of healthcare that can provide valuable insights into an individual’s overall health. Starting these screenings as early as in your 20s can help detect hormonal imbalances that could potentially lead to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women or low testosterone levels in men. Early detection can enable timely intervention, possibly preventing future health issues such as infertility, osteoporosis, heart disease, or certain types of cancer. Regular hormone screenings can help maintain hormonal balance, which is vital for physical wellbeing, mental health, and sexual health. Consequently, it can dramatically improve the quality of life by ensuring optimal hormonal health throughout one’s lifetime.

Routine Blood Work

Routine blood tests are a vital tool in maintaining optimum health, as they can detect deficiencies or imbalances that could potentially lead to health problems. Key markers such as Vitamin D and B12 levels are essential for bone health and nerve function respectively. Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is crucial for regulating your body’s metabolism while C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is an indicator of inflammation in the body. Liver enzymes, ferritin, and creatinine levels help monitor liver function, iron storage, and kidney function respectively.

Abnormalities in these markers can result in symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, digestive issues, mood changes, and more. Lifestyle factors including diet, physical activity, stress, and substance use can significantly affect these markers. Yearly blood tests can help identify these abnormalities early, allowing for timely intervention.

On the other hand, some diseases require more frequent monitoring and blood testing. For example, individuals with diabetes may need regular blood tests to monitor their glucose levels. Cancer patients, too, may require regular blood tests to monitor disease progression, or to check if cancer has returned even after treatment.

Conclusion:

Keeping track of your health status through blood tests is important for catching early warning signs of disease, but it also involves analyzing disease progress, response to treatment, and overall health. Ultimately, the frequency of blood tests depends on a patient’s risk profile, family history, age, and overall health status. I generally recommend yearly healthy living assessment panels for prevention and more specific testing on a more frequent basis for disease management. It is important to discuss with your doctor to determine a testing plan specific to your needs. In that way, you can ensure optimal health and well-being for a long time.

We use the two top labs in Canada: LifeLabs and Dynacare

For a list of some tests that we offer as well as pricing CLICK HERE (Many tests are covered by a health insurance plan)

drshawn

13/Dec/2022

Vitamin D is an essential vitamin that helps our body absorb calcium, promote healthy bones and teeth, and regulate our immune system. It’s often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin” because our body creates it when we’re exposed to sunlight. But many people have difficulty getting enough vitamin D from exposure to the sun alone, especially in winter. Therefore for some of us it is necessary to take a vitamin D supplement to achieve optimal levels.

So what are the main benefits of vitamin D? Let’s take a look at 10 top benefits of this important nutrient.

1. Strengthens Bones and Teeth

Vitamin D plays a pivotal role in helping our bodies absorb calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. Research has shown that having low levels of vitamin D can increase your risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones, in later life.

2. Improves Immunity

Studies have found that people with adequate levels of vitamin D are better able to fight off infections such as colds and flu than those who don’t get enough of the nutrient in their diets. This is because Vitamin D helps regulate our immune system by producing proteins called antimicrobial peptides that help fight off invading bacteria and viruses.

3. Helps Regulate Blood Pressure

Low levels of vitamin D can lead to higher blood pressure, which can increase your risk for heart disease and stroke if left unchecked over time. Adequate levels of vitamin D help keep your blood pressure at healthy levels, reducing your overall risk for cardiovascular-related health issues.

4. Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is one of the body’s natural processes which helps protect us from infection and injury, but too much inflammation can be damaging to our health over time. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to increased inflammation in the body, so maintaining optimal amounts through diet or supplementation may help reduce the risk for chronic inflammatory diseases such as asthma or arthritis.

5. Improves Mental Health

Recent studies have shown that there may be a link between low levels of vitamin D and depression or anxiety symptoms in some individuals. It’s believed that this connection may be due to how vitamin D affects certain neurotransmitters in the brain such as serotonin which play a role in regulating mood and emotions.

6. Protects Against Cancer

Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with an increased risk for certain types of cancer including colon cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and ovarian cancer among others. While more research needs to be done on this topic, it’s believed that adequate intake or exposure to sunlight could help reduce your overall risk for developing these cancers over time.

7. Improves Muscle Strength

Vitamin D plays an important role in muscle strength since it helps regulate calcium absorption into muscles tissues which allows them to contract properly during exercise or physical activity. Research has also shown that having low levels of this vital nutrient could lead to weaker muscles over time so getting enough through diet or supplementation may help improve muscle strength over time.

8. Boosts Brain Function

Studies suggest that having adequate amounts of vitamin d could help boost cognitive function by improving memory recall and alertness. Vitamin D helps regulate certain neurotransmitters like glutamate which play a role in learning and memory formation.

9. Lowers Risk Of Diabetes

There is evidence suggesting that low levels of this nutrient could increase your chances for developing type 2 diabetes since it helps regulate insulin production.

10. Decreases Risk Of Heart Disease

Maintaining adequate amounts through diet or supplementation has been linked with lower risks for heart attack and stroke. Vitamin D helps reduce inflammation within arteries therefore decreasing plaque build-up overtime.

Vitamin D supplementation

Besides sun exposure, Vitamin D supplements provide the most convenient way to ensure the adequate dosage is taken; however it is recommended that you get a lab test done first to determine your Vitamin D levels and then adjust your supplementation accordingly. The current international recommendation for Vitamin D intake stands at 400-800 IUs/day, however some people may need higher doses depending on their individual situation. Vitamin D supplementation can also be obtained through dietary sources such as cod liver oil or fortified foods. When supplementation is not enough to raise a severely low vitamin D level, a high dose injection is an option. For more information on how sun exposure affects vitamin D click here.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are numerous benefits associated with getting enough Vitamin D through diet or exposure to sunlight everyday! From strengthening bones and teeth, to reducing inflammation and improving mental health —this essential nutrient truly plays an integral role in keeping us healthy! For those who aren’t able to get enough naturally through foods rich in Vitamin D like fatty fish (such as salmon), eggs, mushrooms, and fortified milk, supplementation may be necessary depending on individual needs. Consulting with a medical professional would be a great way to ensure that your vitamin D level is optimal.

drshawn

14/Oct/2022

The Top 10 Supplements for Kids’ Health

As a parent, you want what’s best for your child. When it comes to their health, you want to make sure they’re getting all the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, kids don’t get all the nutrients they need from their diet alone. That’s where supplements come in.

Multivitamin:

A multivitamin is a supplement that contains a variety of vitamins and minerals. It’s a good way to ensure that your child is getting all the essential nutrients they need, even if their diet is lacking in some areas.

Kids often go through periods where they’re less than eager to eat certain foods. This is a normal stage in the development of taste buds, and starting with a good quality multivitamin will help your child get back on track during this time!

Compliance is the most important thing when it comes to giving kids supplements. If your child will not take their vitamins you might as well throw them in the garbage. It’s important to try a few different brands in order to see if your child has a specific preference. A naturopathic doctor with experience in working with kids can be very helpful in choosing a few options.

Some of my most frequently recommended include: SmartyPants Kids Formula, ND Shake for Kids by Orange Naturals, and Kids Multivitamin Liquid spray by Organika.

Probiotic:

Probiotics are live bacteria that are good for gut health. They can help with digestion and absorption of nutrients, and they can also help boost the immune system.

There are many different strains of probiotics and many of them have specific effects for specific conditions. This is another reason why it is important to consult with a Naturopathic doctor before choosing which product is right for your child. Some of my most recommended brands include: Culturelle, BioGaia, Vita Aid, and Genestra.

Fish Oil:

Fish oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain development and heart health.

Omega-3 fatty acids are important for many aspects of health, including brain development and heart health. Research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids may help improve cognitive function in children, as well as protect against certain conditions such as depression and ADHD.

For example, a study published in the journal Scientific Reports found that children who consumed higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids had better reading comprehension and short-term verbal memory compared to those with lower intakes. Another study published in BMC Public Health reported that children with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood were less likely to exhibit symptoms of depression.

Additionally, studies have shown that consuming adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids is important for supporting healthy cardiovascular function in children.

For example, one study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that higher intakes of fish oil was associated with improved arterial elasticity in adolescents. Overall, there is strong evidence to support the benefits of consuming omega-3 fatty acids for kids, both for brain development and overall health.

Some brands that I frequently recommend are NutraSea, Honibee, Nordic Naturals and Botanica.

Elderberry Syrup:

Elderberry syrup has long been touted as a natural remedy for fighting off colds and flu in both children and adults. This is due, in part, to the high antioxidant and vitamin content of elderberry. Studies have shown that elderberry can help boost the immune system and shorten the duration of cold or flu symptoms.

For example, one study found that elderberry extract was just as effective at reducing the duration of cold symptoms compared to acetaminophen (a common painkiller). Another study showed that taking an elderberry syrup daily during flu season could reduce the risk of developing illness by up to 58%. Overall, these findings suggest that elderberry may be a powerful tool for reducing the risk and severity of colds and flu in both kids and adults.

I often recommend Sambucol as they have independently researched their product for its efficacy.

Magnesium:

There is a growing body of research demonstrating the benefits of magnesium in certain childhood conditions. In particular, studies have shown that magnesium can help prevent and treat asthma, ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, and even reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Additionally, it has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of osteoporosis later in life, which makes it an important supplement for children who are still growing. Overall, magnesium appears to be a safe and effective way to promote healthy development and overall wellness in children.

Magnesium is important for the body and it can be hard to know which type or salt would work best. Consult with your Naturopath as they will have experience in this area!

Zinc:

One study found that zinc supplements may help to prevent and treat diarrhea in children, which is a common cause of weight loss and malnutrition. Another study showed that zinc can be effective in reducing the frequency of respiratory infections in children, such as colds and flu.

Additionally, research has demonstrated that zinc can be beneficial for wound healing, particularly in patients with diabetes and other conditions that impair circulation.

Overall, these studies suggest that zinc plays an important role in protecting against certain diseases and conditions of childhood, as well as supporting growth and healthy functioning of the immune system.

It is important to speak with your naturopath about how best use zinc because it can lead other nutritional deficiencies if taken long term.

Propolis Spray:

Propolis is a substance made by bees that has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Propolis has long been known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which make it an excellent tool for boosting immunity and healing wounds.

A number of studies have shown that propolis can be effective in treating a variety of childhood conditions, including colds and flu, ear infections, and skin irritations.

For example, one study found that children treated with propolis showed significant improvement in symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, such as coughing and fever, within just 3 days of treatment. The antibacterial properties of propolis also make it an effective treatment for ear infections by helping to eliminate the bacteria that cause these infections.

Finally, propolis has been shown to be effective in treating minor skin irritations like eczema or rashes by reducing inflammation and speeding up the healing process. Overall, these findings highlight the powerful benefits of propolis for children’s health and well-being.It’s great for boosting immunity and healing wounds.

I often recommend the propolis spray by Beekeepers Naturals for sore throats.

Vitamin C:

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for children because it plays a key role in immunity, tissue repair, and collagen production.

Numerous studies have demonstrated that adequate intake of vitamin C can help protect children from a range of health problems, including common colds and respiratory infections.

Additionally, vitamin C is involved in wound healing, which makes it important for children who are frequently active or injured. Furthermore, vitamin C plays a central role in the production of collagen, which is important for supporting healthy skin and connective tissues throughout the body.

Overall, these benefits make it clear that vitamin C is an important nutrient for childhood development and overall health.

Vitamin C is one vitamin that doesn’t really need to be from a specific brand. The most important thing is to find one your child likes to take.

Vitamin D:

There is a growing body of evidence demonstrating the many benefits of vitamin D for children. Studies have shown that adequate levels of vitamin D can help to improve bone health and prevent conditions like osteoporosis later in life.

Additionally, this crucial nutrient plays an important role in immune function, allowing children’s bodies to fight off illnesses and infections more effectively. Furthermore, vitamin D is involved in numerous cellular processes, helping to regulate cell growth and development, maintain proper organ function, and support overall metabolic health.

Overall, maintaining sufficient levels of this key vitamin is essential for promoting optimal health and well-being in children.

There is a lot of differing opinions when it comes to vitamin d dosing in kids. Therefore it is important to speak with your healthcare provider about dosing for children.

Melatonin:

Studies have shown that melatonin can be helpful for children who have difficulty sleeping or have jet lag. This is because it helps to regulate the body’s sleep cycles, allowing kids to fall asleep more easily and stay asleep longer.

Additionally, there is some evidence that melatonin may help reduce the severity of conditions like ADHD and autism, though more research is needed in this area.

Overall, melatonin is considered a safe and effective option for treating sleep disturbances in children, though it should only be used as directed by a healthcare professional.

I have found that melatonin works best when started at a low dose. When choosing your product try to find one that is a maximum of 1mg per dose.

Conclusion:

As parents, we want what’s best for our children. When it comes to their health, we want to make sure they’re getting all the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. Sometimes, however, kids don’t get all the nutrients they need from their diet alone. That’s where supplements come in. A multivitamin, probiotic, fish oil, elderberry syrup, magnesium, zinc, propolis spray, vitamin C, vitamin D, or melatonin can help fill in any gaps in your child’s nutrition and keep them healthy and happy!

drshawn

26/Sep/2022

Multiple sclerosis is a debilitating neurological disorder that can often leave patients feeling hopeless and alone. But there is hope! In this blog post, we will explore nine natural treatments for multiple sclerosis that have helped my Toronto patients alleviate some of the symptoms associated with the disease.

1. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into the skin at specific points on the body. It is believed that this helps to clear energy blockages and promote balance and healing within the body. There is some evidence to suggest that acupuncture may be effective in treating symptoms of multiple sclerosis, such as fatigue, pain, spasticity, and bladder problems.

2. Herbal Medicine

There are many different herbs that have been traditionally used to treat various ailments, including multiple sclerosis. Some of the most common herbs used for MS include ginger, ginkgo biloba, turmeric, milk thistle, lions mane and green tea. These herbs can be taken in pill form or brewed into a tea. It is important to talk to a Naturopathic Doctor or qualified herbal practitioner before starting any herbal treatment regimen, as some herbs can interact with medications you may be taking for your MS.

3. Dietary Changes

Making some simple dietary changes can also help improve symptoms of MS. One study showed that following a Mediterranean diet—which includes lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish, and olive oil—may help reduce inflammation and slow the progression of MS. Other helpful dietary changes include avoiding processed foods and food allergies, getting enough vitamin D, and drinking plenty of water.

Food sensitivity testing can help to identify gluten sensitivity and other food sensitivities in people with MS and other autoimmune diseases. The most common type of food sensitivity test is an Elimination Diet, in which potential triggering foods are eliminated from the diet for a period of time and then reintroduced one at a time to see if symptoms occur. However, Elimination Diets can be difficult to stick to and can take months or even years to complete. Another option is an IgG Food Sensitivity Test, which measures levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in the blood.

Antibodies are produced by the immune system in response to perceived threats, such as bacteria or viruses. However, in people with food sensitivities, the immune system overreacts to harmless proteins found in certain foods, producing excessive amounts of IgG antibodies. IgG Food Sensitivity Tests can be helpful in identifying food sensitivities because they can measure levels of IgG antibodies specific to each individual food protein. This allows for a more targeted Elimination Diet and can speed up the diagnosis process. If you think you might have a food sensitivity, you can book an appointment for testing.

4. Exercise

Exercise is important for everyone, but it is especially crucial for those with MS. Regular physical activity can help reduce fatigue, improve mobility and coordination, ease depression and anxiety, promote better sleep, and boost overall fitness and well-being. Even if you are not able to do strenuous exercise due to your symptoms, there are still many low-impact activities you can do to get moving and feeling better.

5. Stress Reduction Techniques

Stress is a well-known trigger for multiple sclerosis (MS) flare-ups. Managing stress is therefore an important part of MS treatment. Stress management techniques such as relaxation therapy and yoga can be helpful, but some patients may also benefit from taking adaptogens. Adaptogens are a class of natural substances that help the body to adapt to stress by reducing the production of stress hormones. They have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine, and are now gaining popularity as a natural treatment for stress and anxiety. Some common adaptogens include ashwagandha, holy basil, and ginseng. If you are interested in trying adaptogens, talk to your Naturopathic doctor first to discuss whether they are right for you.

6. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an important nutrient that helps the body absorb calcium. It’s found naturally in very few foods, so most people get it from exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D is also available in supplement form. Some studies suggest that vitamin D may play a role in helping to prevent or treat MS. If you think you might be deficient in vitamin D, book an appointment with us for vitamin D testing or talk to your doctor.

Sometimes supplementation is ineffective or can take too long to bring up severely deficient vitamin D levels. I offer these patients the option of a high potency vitamin D injection that will bring levels up very quickly.

7. Mitochondrial Support

Mitochondrial support using resveratrol, alpha lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10 and NAD boosters is a promising new treatment for patients with multiple sclerosis. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cell, and they are responsible for producing energy. In patients with multiple sclerosis, the mitochondria are not working properly, and this can lead to fatigue and other symptoms. Resveratrol, alpha lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10 and NAD boosters help to support the mitochondria and improve their function. In a small study of patients with multiple sclerosis, those who received mitochondrial support had less fatigue and improved quality of life.

8. Hormones

Hormones play an important role in the human body, regulating everything from metabolism and mood to reproduction and energy levels. When hormones are out of balance, it can lead to a host of problems. For patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), hormone imbalances can cause fatigue, weight gain, depression, and loss of libido. Hormone testing can help to identify imbalances and allow for tailored treatment plans that use bio identical hormone replacement therapy to restore balance. By addressing hormone imbalances, patients with MS can improve their quality of life and potentially reduce their risk of disease progression.

9. Cannabinoids

Recently, cannabinoids have emerged as a potential therapy for MS. Cannabinoids are compounds found in the cannabis plant, and they have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. In animal studies, cannabinoids have been shown to reduce inflammation and nerve damage in models of MS. In small clinical trials, cannabinoids have been shown to improve symptom control in patients with MS. These promising results have led to the development of several cannabinoid-based medications for MS. Dr. Shawn Meirovici N.D. is experienced cannabis educator in Toronto, Ontario. Dr. Shawn can help patients decide if cannabis therapy would be a good addition to their treatment plan.

Conclusion:

If you are living with multiple sclerosis (MS), know that you are not alone—there are millions of other people around the world dealing with this disease every day. And while there is no cure for MS at this time, there are many different treatments that can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with the disease. In this blog post, we explored nine natural treatments for MS—acupuncture , herbal medicine , dietary changes , exercise , stress reduction techniques, vitamin D, mitochondrial support, hormone balancing and cannabinoid therapy. Make an appointment with us or talk to your doctor about which treatments might be right for you.

drshawn

15/Aug/2022

Do you feel like you’re always getting sick? Are you constantly battling colds and the flu? If so, you may need to boost your immunity. Luckily, there are a number of natural treatments that can help. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best ways to improve your immune system naturally.

Vitamin D for immunity

Vitamin D is essential for a strong immune system. It helps the body to produce antibodies, which fight infection. Vitamin D can be found in fatty fish, eggs, and fortified milk. You can also get Vitamin D from exposure to sunlight.

Trouble keeping up with vitamin D supplements and worried about sun exposure? Not to worry, at my clinic we offer the option of a vitamin D injection. Under professional supervision, this is a safe and effective way to boost vitamin D levels quickly.

Vitamin C for immunity

Another important nutrient for immunity is Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps the body to create white blood cells, which fight infection. Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits, tomatoes, bell peppers, and broccoli.

Intravenous vitamin C is a great way to get a high dose of Vitamin C. By bypassing digestion, IV vitamin C can boost levels quickly. Intravenous vitamin C can also increase blood concentrations at levels that directly kill pathogens and inhibit cancer growth.

Zinc for immunity

Zinc is another important mineral for immunity. It helps the body to create new cells and enzymes that fight infection. Zinc can be found in oysters, beef, pork, chicken, and beans.

Zinc can also be added to intravenous infusions for an added immune system boost.

Elderberry Syrup

If you’re looking for a kid friendly and great tasting way to boost your immunity, elderberry syrup is a great option. Elderberries are rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and antioxidants. They have been shown to reduce inflammation and fight infection. You can find elderberry syrup at most health food stores.

Ginger for immunity

Ginger is another great option for boosting your immunity. Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and can help to reduce congestion. It can also help to soothe a sore throat. You can find ginger in the form of capsules, tea, or syrup.

Garlic for immunity

Garlic is another excellent food for boosting your immunity. Garlic is rich in Vitamin C, sulfur, and antioxidants. It has been shown to fight infection and reduce inflammation. You can add garlic to your food or take it in supplement form.

Selenium for immunity

Selenium is a trace mineral that is important for immunity. Selenium helps the body to produce antibodies, which fight infection. It can be found in Brazil nuts, tuna, shrimp, and eggs.

Selenium can also be added to an intravenous infusion for an added immune boost.

Vitamin A for immunity

Vitamin A is an important nutrient for immunity. Vitamin A helps the body to produce white blood cells, which fight infection. Vitamin A can be found in sweet potatoes, carrots, dark leafy greens, and squash.

Probiotics for immunity

Probiotics are live bacteria that are good for your gut health. Probiotics help to keep the balance of good and bad bacteria in your gut. This can help to improve digestion and boost immunity. You can find probiotics in yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha.Probiotic supplements are also available.

There you have it! These are just a few of the best ways to boost your immunity naturally. By including these foods and supplements in your diet, you can help to keep yourself healthy and avoid getting sick. In individuals requiring an extra boost, injection and intravenous treatments are available and effective. Do you have any other favourite natural immunity boosters? Share them with us in the comments

DoctorShawn

31/Aug/2018

Multiple Sclerosis is a complex disease; those living with it need a simple approach. A treatment approach should appreciate the physiology of the disease process without neglecting the human body as a holistic system, and the patient as a person.

Naturopathy is an ideal philosophy of medicine for the treatment of M.S. as it aims to address disease processes and symptoms without loosing sight of the patient as an individual.

I chose to focus in neurological disease early into my professional career and as a result I have come across many complex chronic diseases of the nervous system including all subtypes of M.S. When patients come for their initial visit it is not uncommon to be privy to a long list of life events that have impacted the disease, symptoms that have evolved over years and medications that have been tried, stopped and tried again.

It’s easy to see why the practitioner on the other end of the patient with M.S. can become overwhelmed and confused, loosing sight of the big picture, dismissing the patients needs and goals. Unfortunately, this medical tunnel vision re-aimed at addressing each and every concern translates into complex and confusing treatment plans that most patients cannot comply with. I sympathize with these patients who have to remember to take dozens of pills while also dealing with a life altering condition.

To make matters worse, these confusing treatment plans hardly ever work because they tend to forget that the human body is not a series of islands, rather it’s a society striving to work in harmony and balance. The key to developing a simple, understandable and effective treatment plan is to figure out what is out of balance and how do we bring it back.

A typical treatment plan for M.S. has three parts: Foundations, The Immune System and Specific Symptoms. Since we are working toward bringing the body back into balance it is important to take the time to hear the full story and timeline of how the condition started and progressed. Often during the initial consultation it will become clear as to what type of events precluded the first attack and how these events triggered a physiological imbalance.

Foundations

It’s a futile effort to try and treat symptoms while the very basics of health and wellness are not fortified. The foundations of health can be summed up into three parts: Sleep, Diet and Exercise.

Sleep is the healing chamber for the body. Recently studies have shown that the brain undergoes a type of detoxification process while we sleep. Many neurodegenerative diseases have been correlated to poor sleeping habits. It is common to see sleeping issues in patients with M.S. In fact I have had a few cases where years of terrible sleep may have contributed to the patient experiencing their first symptoms related to M.S. This makes sense in the light of the new research demonstrating how important sleep is in clearing neurotoxic compounds from the brain.

One of the most important protocols I put together for my M.S. patients is aimed at improving sleep. This is achieved through sleep hygiene education and supplements that have been carefully vetted over my years in practices for their effectiveness in improving sleep initiation and maintenance.

Diet is important for a number of reasons, some are general and some are specific to M.S. The food we eat and its relation to our digestive tract determines our nutritional robustness.

M.S. is a chronic neuro-inflammatory state and therefore patients with M.S. will be using up vitamins and minerals involved in inflammatory processes at a greater rate than in a healthy control group. Therefor it’s important to determine what the nutritional status is of the M.S. patient (through consultation and specific lab tests), bring it back into balance and correct deficiencies. Otherwise the body will be unable to cope with the inflammatory process and the disease will progress.

It is also important to identify any food allergens, intolerances and sensitivities in the M.S. patient for these will perpetuate the inflammation. Chronic inflammation has a detrimental effect on the immune system, which I will discuss further in the next part of the treatment plan.

Another aspect related to diet is the health of the gastrointestinal tract and more specifically the micro-biome (the bacteria of the gut). A healthy micro-biome is important for detoxification, nutrient absorption and immune system regulation. A protocol addressing diet will focus on testing for nutritional deficiencies, food sensitivities, specific dietary guidelines for M.S. and supportive supplements where necessary.

A good dietary resource specific to M.S. is The Wahls Protocol.

Exercise is a powerful health modulator and is under-appreciated for its importance in chronic disease and specifically M.S. Often exercise comes in the form of physiotherapy in progressive M.S. and the first thing I will do with a patient is set them up with one of the physiotherapists in my clinic (if they don’t already have a physiotherapy program). Often patients newly diagnosed with M.S. are neglected by the medical system in terms of exercise. In-patient rehab programs are inadequate, scooters and wheelchairs are promoted over therapy. Exercise and physiotherapy are instrumental in promoting neuroplasticity, decreasing inflammation, improving energy metabolism, maintaining and improving upon range of motion.

My clinic specializes in neurological rehabilitation using the Bobath Physiotherapy approach. Physio-Logic

The Immune System

Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune condition and therefore one cannot overlook the role of the immune system. Autoimmunity basically translates to a confused immune system that has targeted healthy cells and tissues rather than disease. The philosophy behind this part of the treatment plan addresses two questions: how the immune system became confused and how to bring it back into harmony.

There are many theories as to the cause of M.S., to name a few: Genetics, Vitamin D deficiency, Environmental Toxin Exposure, Candida Overgrowth, Dairy Protein Antigen Confusion and Leaky Gut Syndrome. There are truths to be told within many of these theories but in reality we just don’t know exactly what causes M.S. Some things we do know are the triggers for symptom activation, and things that reduce the risk of developing M.S. We know that stress (physical and/or emotional) often precipitate symptom relapse and progression. We also know that having adequate vitamin D levels are protective toward the development of M.S.

Vitamin D is not longer thought of as merely a bone-building vitamin. In reality it is more of a hormone and has a very important role in maintaining the health of the immune system. Step one of addressing the immune system is making sure the patient has optimal levels of vitamin D and if not, to adjust those levels using specific supplemental doses of vitamin D along with calcium and regular follow-up blood work.

Stress, whether it physical or emotional, causes a burden on the body. Most of the time we are able to cope with short durations of stress; however, when the stressful event is severe enough or lasts long enough it can impact the immune system in a negative way. Chronic stress can affect the immune system in two ways: Creating chronic inflammation that harms tissues and suppressing immune cells needed to fight infection.

When the immune system is under prolonged stress it becomes tired and makes mistakes, much like how we feel when under stress. One of these possible mistakes is mounting an autoimmune attack, harming normal healthy tissue rather than disease. Prolonged stress also depletes natural anti-inflammatory compounds like cortisol, allowing inflammation to run amuck. Therefore the protocol built around the immune system is aimed at decreasing stress on the immune system and bringing the immune system back into balance.

Anything that can be causing unnecessary inflammation needs to be dealt with and therefore chronic infections and food sensitivities must be addressed. Specific lab testing is used to investigate infections and sensitivities. Common food sensitivities in M.S. patients include: Dairy, Gluten, Yeast and Egg.

Once the major obstacles to a healthy immune system are removed we can work toward assisting the immune system back into a balanced state. The most important cells involved in bringing the immune system back into balance are “regulatory T cells” also known as “T suppressor cells”. These cells maintain tolerance in the immune system preventing autoimmunity. Part of the protocol is therefore aimed at supporting these cells. Some compounds that influence regulatory T cells are: probiotics, vitamin D, vitamin A, Omega 3 fatty acids and food sensitivities.

Specific Symptoms

Treating foundations and immune system irregularities take time, therefore it is almost equally important to address the specific symptoms of the patient. Fatigue, weakness and pain are often obstacles to important foundational concerns like sleep and exercise.

Fortunately, there are many great strategies within Naturopathic medicine to help address the most common symptoms in M.S. namely: Weakness, Spasticity, Fatigue, Pain, Bowel and Bladder issues. There are dozens of supplements that have shown promise in treating the common symptoms of M.S. The art of the practitioner is in choosing the right compounds for the right patient. As an example, medical marijuana can be very effective for spasticity, pain, bladder dysfunction and sleep but can exacerbate weakness. A good practitioner with experience in treating M.S. will know how to choose the appropriate medications for the patients needs.

Multiple Sclerosis is a complex condition with many subtypes and many different ways it affects the individual patient. Naturopathic medicine aims to treat the root cause of disease while also addressing the individual concerns of the patient. The treatment plan can be summed up into three areas: Foundations, Immune System and Specific Symptoms. This helps direct the practitioner toward the right approach and simplifies the philosophy behind the treatment, improving upon compliance and therefore patient outcomes.

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