Did you know that what you eat can affect your mental health? Many people know that healthy eating is important, but not many people know that specific foods (or ingredients) can be linked to poor mental health. In 2017 a study found a link between the amount of sugar people consumed and the likelihood of having a "common mental health" disorder. The study found that mental health disorders, especially depression, were more likely to be found in participants eating the highest amounts of sugar. In my time treating patients, this is a link I have noticed as well. I have had many patients say they noticed their mood dropped substantially after eating something with added sugar such as cookies, orange juice, pop, cake or other types of sweet treats. Researchers have also found that people with depression have higher levels of inflammation in the brain. Their research suggests that there is also a link between high levels of inflammation in the brain and depression. Treatments that work to lower inflammation in the body, can also help to lower brain inflammation and symptoms of depression. When working with patients, I almost always start by educating them on how diet can impact their condition. A healthy diet is absolutely foundational to a person experiencing "vibrant health". As naturopathic doctors we know that "food is medicine"! If a patient's food is not acting as "medicine", it can be acting as the "slowest form of poison". Certain foods can lead to the worsening of symptoms on a daily basis. The body is so wonderfully made. It only needs the right environment to function well. Removing foods which function as obstacles to healing, and adding foods which actively help the body heal can make a big difference to our mental health. Learn more about how you can eat your way to a happier, healthier life by booking a free 15 minute consultation. Warmly, Dr. Noelle Full study: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-05649-7
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Its John, writing from my home office as unfortunately Osteopathic Manual Practitioners are still unable to work during this lockdown. Although please be aware that there has been a big push from practitioners, patients and our association to try get us back working and treating as soon as possible!!! I feel that I would like to write once a week or so and keep you all up to date with any news, etc on when I can return to work and even just to let you all know what I have been up to and how I am trying to grow personally and professionally. As things stand I am looking to return to work 23rd February!!
I am a firm believer that even in adversity, there can be positive outcomes. I’ve been able to watch every moment of my son grow, walk and start to talk. It has been unbelievable from that view point, so I cannot really complain. Watching his personality develop and see his little mind trying to figure out his little world. I feel bad he has not been socialized as much as I would like, but I hope we have been providing him with enough stimuli. Spending time with my better half, with us bingeing on Netflix, etc has been fun. If anyone needs any recommendations let me know!! I think I’ve ‘completed’ Netflix!! I’m missing playing hockey, missing my family and friends like crazy, but it could be a lot worse, with Zoom and FaceTime it makes it seem not so bad. It has also been a great time for puppy training, we have a 7 month old rescue pup, and he’s a great dog but has some emotional issues to work though and having the extra time for consistent training and helicopter parenting has been a bonus!! I have also tried to develop myself professionally, the same as last lockdown, having the time to study, attend numerous webinars and just focus on areas that I want to improve my practice. I’ve been researching a lot to do with foot biomechanics, hockey and basketball injuries, concussions and rehab science! So be prepared to hear me talk even more about injuries, aches, pains, and biomechanics and I look forward to any questions!!! If anyone has any questions please do not hesitate to contact Dalhousie Health & Wellness and they can pass it on and I'll get back to you ASAP. Remember we get Locked Down but we get up again!! John VanHerbert, Osteopathic Manual Provider |
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