The Lifelong Wellness Company Inc

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

CFRB 1010 News Talk: R. Horovitz ND; Cure for the Common Cold?

Saturday, January 29, 2011

The Clinic: Active Health Centre, Markham, Ontario

New Patients Welcome!!!

Friday, January 21, 2011

Naturopathic Medicine and Comprehensive Lab Analysis offered by R. Horovitz, B.Sc., ND

Robert W. Horovitz, B.Sc., ND
Naturopathic Doctor
The Lifelong Wellness Company Inc.
Active Health Centre
5871 Hwy 7 E
Markham, ON L3P 1A3
Clinic: (905) 294-0454

e-mail: info@lifelongwellnesscentre.com
www.lifelongwellnesscentre.com
www.facebook.com/lifelongwellnesscentre
www.twitter.com/lifelongwell

Clinic Fees

Initial Appointment: $189
Between 1-1.5 hours and includes a full naturopathic intake, physical exam, lab interpretation (of existing lab reports), in depth nutritional assessment. Treatments include nutritional (diet, nutritional supplementation) and/or herbal advice based on individual findings. Physical medical advice such as specific exercises may be recommended as well.

Follow-up Apppointments: $79
Typically 30-45 minutes

Initial Acupuncture: $80
Customized acupuncture protocols designed to treat the individual based on traditional chinese medical findings (symptoms, tongue, pulse) as well as modern naturopathic findings.

Follow-up Acupuncture: $50

Lab Work: These tests can be incredible tools to help you on your journey to promote lifelong wellness!
Please e-mail me if you have any questions: info@lifelongwellnesscentre.com.

Urinary Thyroid: $255:
urine sample collected over 24 hours that measures free T4, free T3, selenium. The avantage is that instead of a blood test (a snapshot at that moment), this urine sample can give an idea of how the thyroid functions over a 24 hour period.

Salivary Hormone Tests

Complete Estradiol and Progesterone Profile: $354:
takes samples of saliva over a 31 day period and then plots estradiol (most potent estrogen) against progesterone in a curve. The advantage again is instead of people measuring a snapshot at that moment from a blood sample, a woman can obtain a measurement of these two hormones as they function pretty much over the course of their entire menstrual cycle. This is a huge plus for women who are menopausal, women who are trying to conceive, women who have other menstrual irregularities (symptoms associated with their menstrual cycle: PMS, fertility concerns, menopause, etc.).

4 Point Cortisol Curve $249:
Cortisol is one of our major stress hormones. When there is a stressful situation, we need this hormone to actually be stressed in the first place and adequately cope with it. If someone is stressed all of a sudden for a short while, this hormone may increase too high (not good). Conversely if someone is chronically stressed for a long period of time (many months or years) this hormone may be too low (not good). Naturopathic Medicine can help! People can measure cortisol in the blood through their MD, however again (only a snapshot). This curve is at 4 different times of a day and taken from saliva (less invasive). Cortisol should be highest in the morning and then decrease towards the night, so that our major sleep hormone melatonin can take over so that we can get a nice restful sleep. As you can see, sleep and stress are intimately connected!

Female Panel + Cortisol $435:
we just went through cortisol. The other hormones measured are Estradiol (major estrogen), Progesterone, DHEA, and Testosterone. All of these hormones are useful in determine a baseline for wellbeing. This is an excellent test for someone who wishes to see where they are hormonally as a general check. DHEA is a measure of adrenal function (to compliment the cortisol) as well as potentially sign of aging.

Male Panel + Cortisol $373:
same as female but without progesterone and also contains the cortisol curve.

DHT $93:
This hormone is a biproduct of testosterone. Testosterone can be converted to DHT by an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase. If DHT gets too high, it can be linked with many health related concerns (both male and female); notably regarding prostate health, male pattern baldness, polycystic ovarian syndrome, fertility, acne.

Hair Mineral Analysis $102:
This is a fantastic test for detecting toxicity; notably heavy metals. People may wish to obtain this test to assess their general health, signs/symptoms associated with heavy metal toxicity (lead, mercury, arsenic, etc.). Someone who may want to go on a detoxification program may want to look at this test. Even someone who has been living in an old home (pipes, paint, etc.).
If you or someone you know are on medications that they would like to wean off; pain meds, anxiety/depression meds, etc., consider booking in for an initial visit. Often naturopathic medicine can even compliment conventional medications to help them work more effectively, and alleviate many of the side effects! 15 minute consults can be booked either in clinic or over the phone for anyone interested and they are free of charge.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Promote Lifelong Detoxification!

Now that the new year is in gear, we all know people that are bringing up the topic of detoxification. The problem with detoxes in boxes or 'fad' detoxes such as the master cleanse, is that they fail to address the individual. People detoxify but then experience symptoms such headache, nausea, etc., which the industry calls the 'healing crisis'. This is the result of the body's detoxification methods being manipulated out of balance. Too much phase 1 detox and not enough phase 2 is a common example. This can be avoided with a responsible detoxification program. I offer a comprehensive hair mineral analysis, which evaluates people for certain toxins (lead, mercury, other mineral contents, etc.).

My custom detoxification programs are in depth, including a full intake, physical exam, and nutritional work up. I treat using acupuncture and herbs in addition to nutritional recommendations that are specific to the individual's case. These therapies are designed to improve and rejuvenate the major detoxification organs (liver, kidney, skin) to promote energy, vitality, and to empower people to move forward with their goals.

Common skin ailments (eczema, psoriasis, acne, rosacea) can be treated very effectively. Overindulgence can be effectively treated (alcohol, smoking, weight gain). People suffering from migraines, chemical sensitivities, digestive concerns should consider my comprehensive detoxification program designed for them. I encourage you to speak to your family members, friends, patients about supporting lifelong detoxification. I am available for free 15 minute consults and as always anyone can reach me anytime at info@lifelongwellnesscentre.com.

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Foods You'll Want to Think About; Energy and Mental Well-being

Green Tea: For centuries, green tea has been revered for its energizing properties. Whole green tea, a source of caffeine interestingly contains L-theanine, revered for its ability to calm the nerves and promote restful sleep. 5-10 cups per day long term has only shown benefit for the heart and the mind.

Kale: High fiber, combined with powerful disease fighting glucosynolates, is a hormone balancing must have! Kale is also a very good source of b-vitamins, which are energizing and help support a healthy functioning nervous system

Cacao: High in theobromine, an energizing compound, cacao is also a source of the amino acid tryphtophan, which promotes relaxation and increase the natural production of endorphins. Combine whole, organic raw cacao nibs with organic goji berries, and you’ll have one of my personal favourite snacks for both energy and mood.

Wild, Alaskan, Salmon Oil: Omega-3 essential fatty acids contained in fish have been well researched for their ability to nourish the nervous system and improve mental well being. Did you know that whole salmon does not just contain omega-3 fatty acids, but rather an array of other fatty acids that may have profound health benefits? Omega 5 and 7 are two such examples. Moreover, whole salmon oil contains a powerful orange pigment called astaxanthin as well as naturally occurring vitamin D, which have mood modulating properties.

Sprouted Organic Chia: Chia is a great source of magnesium, b-vitamins, and insoluble fiber. Additionally, this superfood contains omega-3 fatty acids and is a potent antioxidant reaching an ORAC value that is approximately double that of non-sprouted chia. For PMS and other potential hormone imbalances, consider a good fiber source such as chia.

Organic Brown Rice Bran: This food tastes incredibly sweet and is a winner in my opinion in any shake or smoothie. Having a high b-vitamin content, it is also incredibly versatile in its nutrition. Compounds such as inositol-6-phosphate are used by the body to coat our nerves and promote a healthy immune system. It looks great, tastes, great; it is great!

Whey Protein Isolate: Whey is an incredible full spectrum amino acid containing food from dairy. Whenever analyzing mood disorders, I am compelled to discern whether a patient is consuming enough good quality amino acids throughout the day. Amino acids are required by the body to produce neurotransmitters and hormones in general so protein adequacy is a must! Whey protein isolate is relatively low in calories, saturated fat, and cholesterol. Alongside a good fiber source, protein can help to balance blood sugar for long sustained energy.

Camu camu: A berry from Peru that is one of the highest known vitamin C containing foods in the world. With an array of other antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, Camu camu has been shown to provide benefit in people suffering from depression. Interestingly, vitamin C is also required by the body to produce cortisol, one of our main stress supportive hormones.

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Naturopathic Lifelong Wellness Strategies for Candida/Yeast Infections

Candida albicans is a type of yeast that can lead to all sorts of health problems. Most people identify its overgrowth with vaginal yeast infections, however it can effect many systems. Candida is often referred to as an opportunistic infection. In immune compromised individuals such as people with AIDS or on chemotherapy, it can multiply out of control, hence; if there is an opportunity to attack, it will take it.

Naturopathically, these infections can be adequately controlled if the root cause of their overgrowth is addressed. Most people don’t realize that C. albicans naturally resides in approximately 80% of the human population without causing any adverse reactions. A balanced immune system, stress response, and microflora count all have merit when considering treatment.

Pre and probiotics are excellent for supporting the microflora of the digestive track. Did you know that a large portion of the immune system actually emanates from the digestive track? This is largely due to balanced amounts of healthy bacteria. Think of it as a gigantic circle of life; the good bacteria keep the bad (pathogenic) in balance. Prebiotics include chicory root, Jerusalem artichoke, and dandelion greens whereas probiotics include bacterial strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, commonly fortified in commercial yogurts.

Healthy Brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) may confer benefit. When allowed to ferment, the healthy yeast produces a fluid or ‘medium’, containing many health promoting substances that can out compete against other pathogenic fungi.

Since Candida feeds on sugar, maintaining a healthy stress response (in addition to avoiding dietary intake of sugar) is important. Chronic stress can promote inflammatory imbalances and improper functioning of the immune system, which can both support Candida overgrowth. Moreover, people often crave sweets while under stress, which may ‘add fuel to the fire’.

A reputable extracts of oil of oregano has merit in attacking C.albicans. Consider using it at 3 drops, three times per day for 6-8 weeks. During this time, it is wise to use a probiotic supplement containing the fermented medium. Oil of oregano can kill bad bacteria, but also some good if used at high dosages for prolonged periods of time. After 6-8 weeks, taking probiotics at 24 billion CFU twice per day or higher is reasonable to try and establish a healthy microflora. It is important to address other aspects of a healthy immune system, while killing off pathogenic yeast. Hormone balancing, detoxification, addressing other underlying food sensitivities (besides simply avoiding sugar), and maintaining adequate nutrition may address the root cause. Book your free 15 minute consult with Robert W. Horovitz Naturopathic Doctor and ask about salivary hormone tests and hair mineral analysis.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Lifelong Healthy Cholesterol

Cholesterol has been given a bad name for far too long and it is time that someone finally set the record straight. Cholesterol is not only as bad as people think, but is actually in many ways essential for promoting Lifelong Wellness. Every cell in our body has a membrane surrounding it that Is partly fluid. It has to be; otherwise our cells would be too brittle. Cholesterol plays an important role in helping to maintain that fluidity. Additionally cholesterol is required for the production of sex steroid hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, as well as a major stress hormone cortisol, among others. Furthermore, cholesterol is a precursor for bile, which helps to emulsify fats and aid the absorption of fat soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K. Some may be interested to know that vitamin D, a vitamin that is incredibly hot right now (no pun intended) is synthesized from a derivative of cholesterol with the help of sunlight.

Should people pay close attention to their blood cholesterol levels? Absolutely. If blood cholesterol levels rise, it is possible to have an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease later on in life and suffer from a heart attack or stroke. Even though cholesterol is required by the body to do good, over time high cholesterol levels can contribute to plaque buildup in our arteries, possibly obstructing blood flow and even dislodging in little pieces that can travel to various parts of the body and get trapped where blood vessels narrow. If one of these pieces of plaque gets trapped near the heart, a heart attack can occur. If in the brain, a stroke. Cholesterol itself though is not the whole story as several things need to happen in order to form arterial plaque. LDL for example is a transporter lipoprotein used to take cholesterol from the liver and intestine to tissues where it can be used in its glory. It is commonly known as “bad cholesterol”. If LDL is oxidized it can contribute to the formation of foam cells that deposit in arterial walls and become known as plaque. In fact it is perhaps oxidized cholesterol that is the real culprit. HDL or “good cholesterol” takes cholesterol from tissues and helps with its excretion.

Treating elevated cholesterol naturally can be achieved by many different ways and it is important to understand that everyone is different and should be treated accordingly. One idea is to block the production of cholesterol by the body itself. HMG-CoA reductase is an enzyme that is intimately involved in the production of cholesterol. If inhibited, blocking cholesterol is achieved, which is exactly what pharmaceutical drugs known as statins do such as Lipitor. These drugs however do not come free of side effects. Muscle aches and pains for example are relatively common so speak to your health care professional regarding supportive measures.

Although cholesterol is produced by our bodies, most of it is actually reabsorbed from the intestine via bile salts. Plant sterols (phytosterols) can block this and allow the salts to be excreted in our stool, thus being an excellent complimentary supplement for cholesterol reduction. Although dosages vary, 1.3 grams with two separate meals are worth considering. Fiber can also help with the excretion of cholesterol. 30 grams of fiber daily is a good starting point. Chia, kamut, quinoa, flax, glucomannan, and whole wheat are great sources of fiber. An apple is approximately 3.5g of fiber so an apple a day really is a start.

Fish oil is one of the single best supplements that can be taken for promoting cardiovascular health. A three ounce serving of wild Pacific salmon 2-3 times per week can have profound positive influences over your cholesterol panel. Whole salmon oil in this meal sized dosage is available. Otherwise, 2-4 grams per day of a pharmaceutical grade, molecular distilled fish oil has merit.

Supplements that are good antioxidants are definitely worth incorporating into a cholesterol lowering protocol. Preventing oxidation of cholesterol may be even more important than simply reducing it from your diet. For example one of the main questions that people ask me is whether eggs are healthy, considering that one large white egg contains approximately 195mg of cholesterol in its yolk. The answer is in the way that you cook it. Since the cholesterol is in the yolk, preventing oxidation is key. When making hard boiled eggs, scrambling the yolk, or making an omelet, the yolk changes dramatically. It becomes oxidized! Next time you cook an egg, try preparing it using lower temperatures (medium or lower) and “over easy” or “sunny side up”. Also try putting ¼ tsp or so of turmeric and fresh ginger into the oil prior to heating as they may add further protection and are both cardio protective.