Dr. Derika Nauta ND

Top 5 Reasons to get Updated Bloodwork

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Getting routine bloodwork done can be anxiety provoking for some and an inconvenience for others, but having regular bloodwork done may provide some useful insights for your health. Whether it is through your medical doctor or a naturopathic doctor, bloodwork may help to reveal the culprit behind some of these common complaints: 

I’m Tired

When it comes to fatigue, there can be many common culprits from diet and lifestyle to stress and burnout. What some individuals do not realize is that fatigue can be a warning sign from our body that certain nutrients are low, or certain organs are not functioning at their optimal. A naturopathic doctor might consider ordering certain tests to help with discovering the root of this problem. 

I’m Anxious

With any mental health concern, our diet and lifestyle can make a huge impact on its state. Specifically, when trying to formulate a plan of action on how to address mental health concerns, bloodwork can be helpful in determining if there are nutrients that are deficient or other conditions that are contributing to the problem. 

I’m Bloated

Digestion is so important for our overall health. If one area of our digestive tract is not functioning well, it can affect our whole body. The most common complaint that individuals have with regards to digestion is bloating. Bloating can be the result of many different factors, for which blood tests can offer the clue to determine the culprit behind the digestive concerns. In addition, functional medicine tests such as food sensitivity testing can provide valuable insight into which foods might be contributing to bloating. 

I’m Hormonal (or feel like I am lacking)

Whether it is male or female hormones, they can all contribute to how we feel. Specifically, if hormones are too low, it can cause feelings of fatigue, mood swings, irregular cycles, etc. If hormones are too high, it can cause mood swings, skin blemishes, irregular cycles, etc. No matter the hormone, when they are imbalanced, it can create feelings of not being well. Hormones can be tested through bloodwork in order to determine if hormones are too high, or too low, and thus a treatment plan can be created to help support the journey to balance. 

I’m “Fine” 

When many individuals are not feeling well, the first stop is normally to get bloodwork done in order to determine what is going on. Occasionally, the bloodwork reveals that someone is “fine”, even though they do not feel “fine”. Getting further bloodwork may be helpful. In addition, a different perspective such as one attained through a Naturopathic Doctor, may be helpful as they look at bloodwork differently compared to your medical doctor. They look at your bloodwork compared to what is optimal and not just “fine”. This can help provide some clarity, insights, and answers for why they are feeling the way they are feeling. 

Can PNHC’s Naturopathic Doctors run Bloodwork? 

YES! Both of our naturopathic doctors are able to run most bloodwork. The bloodwork however is NOT covered by OHIP. The bloodwork can occasionally be covered under someone’s benefits (it is always best to check with your plan about this), but if nothing else, it can be put towards health expenses on an individual’s income tax return. Blood tests do vary in cost, and so, it is best to consult with your naturopathic doctor to determine the costs, what is necessary, and/or what paths to explore with testing. 

Ready to Book an Appointment? 

Give us a call/text at 226-232-7665 or go to the contact portion of this page (make sure to put in your email address correctly), and allow us to help you get matched up with the right Naturopathic Doctor for your specific situation! 

Have you benefited from reading this blog? Know someone that would benefit as well? Share, Like, Comment, or Tweet this article, and let me know what you think.

Some of the information provided above may not be appropriate for everyone, please consult with your doctor before trying any of the above. If you are interested in trying any of our services, working with any of our amazing practitioners, or are simply wanting a different approach to your health care needs, contact the Plattsville Natural Health Clinic by calling 226-232-7665 and book your appointment today! 

Do traditional home remedies actually work?

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I am sure many of you have heard of some old remedies that you, your parents, or even your grandparents had used for common ailments. Many people wonder if these therapies are actually effective and frankly, if they even make sense. Consider this blog a “myth busters” type of blog where we explore some of these old remedies for common ailments.

Tea

Many people consider a cup of tea one of the key pillars on the road to recovery when it comes to colds and flus. When we look at the research, it is arguably true. Much of the research does not focus on one specific tea per se, but the big take away, is that tea contains many antioxidants and constituents that help the body in general. Specifically, tea can also help to ward off and fight colds and flus by decreasing inflammation, inhibiting growth of microbes, and increasing overall antioxidants in the body.

Soup

Another staple that individuals recommend with the cold or flu is a cup of soup, specifically mom/dad’s homemade chicken noodle. Looking at the research, chicken soup helps to reduce symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections through its anti-inflammatory effect on the body. Arguably, the sooner you start this in the sickness, the better to reduce the inflammatory cascade that happens with colds and flus.

Mustard Plaster

For some, mustard plasters have been used for upper respiratory conditions, and is considered an old remedy. For those who have been able to tolerate the heat and potential sensitivity to the skin, mustard plaster has been shown in the research to cause an improvement even seen in x-ray results, of the lungs for those with upper respiratory tract concerns. Further, mustard plasters have been shown to even increase the immune cells to combat infection.

Poultices

Poultices involve the application of warmed herbs, bread, onion, or carrot to an infected or inflamed tissue. The research is a bit difficult to search through, as there are many different application types for poultices. Ultimately, the poultice has been shown to have a drawing effect, causing a reduction in pain and redness.

Seeing that some of these traditional tools and remedies have merit even in our modern world can be so encouraging and exciting. However, it is important to make sure that these tools and remedies are right for your specific situation. Some of the information provided above may not be appropriate for everyone, please consult with your doctor before trying any of the above.

Have you benefited from reading this blog? Know someone that would benefit as well? Share, Like, Comment, or Tweet this article, and let us know what you think. If you are interested in Naturopathic Medicine and wanting a different approach to your health care needs, contact our clinic by calling/texting 226-232-7665, and we would be happy to book your naturopathic appointment today! 

References:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S027153170700125X
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11035691
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12575372
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Wafaa-Mostafa-3/publication/339510870_Fenugreek_seed_poultice_versus_cold_cabbage_leaves_compresses_for_relieving_breast_engorgement_An_interventional_comparative_study/links/61f9619b11a1090a79c7abd3/Fenugreek-seed-poultice-versus-cold-cabbage-leaves-compresses-for-relieving-breast-engorgement-An-interventional-comparative-study.pdf

Top 5 Reasons to See a Naturopathic Doctor

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In honour of naturopathic medicine week (which we celebrate in May), we wanted to share the top 5 reasons why you might want to consider seeing a naturopathic doctor. Here at Plattsville Natural Health Clinic, we have two naturopathic doctors that are well equipped to help you along your healing journey, whether it may be seeking their help for the below 5 reasons or other concerns!

Top 5 Reasons to See a Naturopathic Doctor

1.“I’m Tired”

      The fatigue you experience may not be just because you are busy. There can be many explanations for fatigue which could include how foods are paired in the diet, nutrient deficiencies, chronic illness, stress and other reasons. Naturopathic Doctors may be able to take a full history, order blood work, and determine the root cause of the fatigue you may experience.

      2. “I’m Stressed/ Depressed/ Anxious”

      Whether it is stress, low mood, or nervousness; a naturopathic doctor is equipped with many tools to help you through these struggles. The way we eat, move our bodies and respond to our environments can most certainly impact our mental health, but there may be something more behind how you are feeling. Could there be nutrients, hormones, or other factors influencing where your mind is at? Let a Naturopathic Doctor help you determine that.

      3. “I’m in Pain”

      From chronic migraines, to back pain and beyond, there are many different pain experiences, influential factors, and modalities to aid them. Naturopathic Doctors are able to use modalities including acupuncture, cold laser therapy, cupping, and body work to help alleviate pain. In addition, naturopathic doctors look at the whole system in order to address inflammation and some other potential root causes to pain.

      4. “My Digestion is Off”

      “Digestive” concerns can mean so many things. If it is too slow or too fast, this can cause concerns for individuals. There are so many symptoms that can be uncomfortable for individuals including bloating, gas, abdominal pain, cramping, constipation, diarrhea, burping, regurgitation, acid reflux, GERD, and more. Naturopathic Doctors are able to look at diet, lifestyle, blood work, and your health history to formulate a plan of action to address these concerns.

      5. “My Hormones are Ruining my Life”

      Whatever stage of life you are in, hormones can be so impactful. Whether your goal is trying to have a family (i.e. get pregnant), weather the storms of menopause, have a normal period, or get the muscular gains from your workouts; Naturopathic Doctors are able to assess your hormonal health and determine the right plan for your individual situation. From supplements, to diet and beyond, Naturopathic Doctors have many ways of approaching your individual case in order to help find a solution.

      For more information about our naturopathic doctors or naturopathic medicine, please see the naturopathic tab on our website, or contact us today to allow us to answer any questions or concerns you might have.

      Have you benefited from reading this blog? Know someone that would benefit as well? Share, Like, Comment, or Tweet this article, and let me know what you think.

      Some of the information provided above may not be appropriate for everyone, please consult with your doctor before trying any of the above. If you are interested in trying any of our services, working with any of our amazing practitioners, or are simply wanting a different approach to your health care needs, contact the Plattsville Natural Health Clinic by calling 226-232-7665 and book your appointment today! 

      Supporting the Immune System

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      Recent updates have warned us to buckle up and get ready for another potential wave of illness/colds/flus. With changes in season, it can take its toll on our immune systems. By integrating some daily measures into our lifestyle, we can set a better stage for our immune systems as we enter into these more immune aggressive seasons. We decided it was beneficial to present an updated version of one of our older blog posts in order to help you support your immune system.

      Stress Management

      Being under a lot of stress can cause our immune systems to be more susceptible to bacteria and viruses. Stress can cause our bodies to be more focused on fueling ourselves with fight or flight response (i.e. responding to the stress) and less on protecting us from colds and flus, thus making us more susceptible. By managing stress before it wears our bodies down, we can keep bacteria and viruses at bay. Stress management can look like taking certain supplements as discussed with your Naturopathic Doctor, massage therapy, talking to a friend, acupuncture, regular walks, and reading a book (just to name a few). If you would like to learn more about stress management, Dr. Cook has released a new book, Stress Less and Weigh Less, which discusses many great stress management tools. You can get your copy by visiting our publications page of this website.

      Vegetables and Fruits

      Vegetables and fruits are full or antioxidants and nutrients that help to build and boost the immune system. By assuring the immune system has the right nutrients, it can help to keep the body strong and healthy. Ideally, having no more than 3 servings of fruit per day and having 5 or more vegetables per day is what is recommended. Specifically, when we look at the research, we can see that an anti-inflammatory diet (which is generally high in vegetables), has been shown to help combat viruses and support recovery from them. Some individuals may require higher amounts of certain nutrients to be able to effectively mount an immune response to certain bacteria and viruses, and so may require supplementation for specific nutrients. Determining which nutrients need to be supplemented for is best determined with the help of a health care professional.

      Tea

      Having teas, such as green tea, on a regular basis can help to boost the immune system due to their antioxidant profile and their immune boosting qualities. Specifically, green tea has been shown to bind to and prevent replication of certain viruses. Adding a bit of honey to your tea can also help to fight off any bacteria that might attempting to invade.

      Soup

      Many may find it hard to believe, but consuming homemade soup actually helps to halt the inflammatory cascade that happens when we are starting to get sick. In addition, homemade soup is full of electrolytes and nutrients to help combat illness.

      Exercise

      Exercise can help to boost the immune system by increasing the speed at which white blood cells patrol the body and look for bacteria or viruses. Exercise can also be beneficial for the immune system by increasing the respiratory rate and thus increasing the chance that a lingering bacteria or virus will be cleared from the lungs. However, it is important to potentially modify out workout routine if we do come down with a cold or flu. If you do become sick, focus on refueling with adequate protein after your workouts to support recovery of the body from your workout and from the illness.

      Sleep

      Getting a proper sleep can help you to better manage not only emotions and stress but also your immune system. Not getting a good night’s sleep can cause our bodies to be less able to produce T cells – an important immune system cell – and thus make us more susceptible to colds and flus.

      Have you benefited from reading this blog? Know someone that would benefit as well? Share, Like, Comment, or Tweet this article, and let me know what you think.

      Some of the information provided above may not be appropriate for everyone, please consult with your doctor before trying any of the above. If you are interested in Naturopathic Medicine and wanting a different approach to your health care needs, contact our clinic to book in with one of our amazing naturopathic doctors by calling/texting 226-232-7665 and book your appointment today!