How to Aid Your Weight Loss Regimen By Leaps and Bounds

Weight loss can do wonders for people who want to look better. It can even do wonders for people who simply want to feel better. If you’re interested in enhancing your feelings of wellness, then it may help you to establish a weight loss regimen. If you have an existing weight loss routine, you can take it to the next level in a couple of key ways.

Consult a Nutritionist

Working with a dietitian or nutritionist can be a game-changer for people who want to take their weight loss routines up a few notches. Professionals can give you tips that pertain to suitable food and beverage choices for winning the Battle of the Bulge. They can help you figure out which kinds of foods you need to avoid, too.

Establish a Superb Exercise Routine

Losing weight isn’t only about eating foods that are nutritious, balanced, and relatively low in calories. It’s also about getting sufficient physical activity on a regular basis. If you want to aid your plan to shed pounds, then getting regular exercise can do a lot for you. You should sign up for a gym membership. You should think about going for brisk walks and jogs in your neighborhood as well. The point is to squeeze in exercise sessions at least three times a week.

Get a Keto Dietary Supplement

There are all sorts of nutritional supplements these days that can come in handy for people who want to drop excess pounds. If you want to drop pounds and revel in wellness at the same time, you should look into all of your options regarding a 2000mg keto dietary supplement. Nutritional supplements can often help people trim the fat. They can often help people achieve higher levels of health in general.

Work with a Friend for Support

Having a workout buddy can do a lot for your morale and spirits. If you want your weight loss routine to be particularly effective, it may help to team up with a family member or a friend. You may want to come up with nutritious meal options with a pal who is just as fitness-conscious as you are. You may want to exercise alongside a relative who is passionate about getting fit for life as well. Doing something with another person can be terrific for your motivation.

You should do anything you can to make your weight loss routine healthy and effective. You should prioritize eating well and exercise sessions alike. Dropping pounds doesn’t have to be as difficult as you suspect.

Spike in Referral Cases Prompt University Gastroenterology to Encourage Colorectal Cancer Screenings

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Oct. 22, 2019) — Physicians at University Gastroenterology (UGI) are raising awareness about screening options for colorectal cancer amid a spike in cases where Cologuard should not have been prescribed. Medical staff at UGI have also expressed concern about the multi-million dollar public relations campaign to promote Cologuard, which could deter patients from seeking more effective cancer screening tests. 

In an effort to address the growing issue, University Gastroenterology is launching its own campaign about the need for regular colorectal cancer screenings once patients reach age 50. One of the most important messages about UGI’s public health effort is to inform patients and primary care physicians that Cologuard is not an appropriate test for everyone. 

University Gastroenterology wants the public to be aware of the following issues related to colonoscopy and Cologuard:

  • Colonoscopy is the gold standard because it is the only screening test that detects and prevents cancer. 
  • Cologuard is only approved for average-risk patients age 50 years and older and is not intended to replace diagnostic colonoscopy or surveillance colonoscopy in high-risk patients. 
  • A 2014 study involving 10,000 patients, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that Cologuard missed 1 in 13 patients who had colorectal cancer that was found by a colonoscopy
  • Cologuard also missed more than 30 percent of polyps that will become cancer, and almost 60 percent of larger polyps that may become cancer. 
  • The U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer (MSTF) ranked Cologuard as a second-tier screening test. MSTF recommends that physicians first offer colonoscopy, followed by annual Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) for patients who decline colonoscopy, followed by second-tier tests for patients who decline annual FIT.

About University Gastroenterology

University Gastroenterology is a specialty group that provides patients with friendly, cutting edge care for diseases of the liver and gastrointestinal tract. UGI doctors are regionally recognized for their expertise in general gastroenterology, inflammatory bowel disease, liver disease, and therapeutic endoscopy. The multi-disciplinary group has major campuses in Providence, East Greenwich, and Portsmouth. Each campus houses a state-of-the-art ambulatory Endoscopy Center that provides a caring and cost effective environment. UGI also provides inpatient consultative services at Rhode Island Hospital, Miriam Hospital, Kent County Hospital, Newport Hospital, and Roger Williams Hospital. Referrals are welcome. 

For more information about colorectal cancer screening options and the full range of services and procedures offered by University Gastroenterology, visit: http://www.universitygi.com/

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Hemp: Big Risks, Big Rewards for Agriculture
Fiber, grain/seed and cannabidiol demand is growing, as processing capacity is strained
Since the 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the Controlled Substances Act, the agriculture industry has been inundated with interest in and information about industrial hemp. Some of the information has indicated a large financial upside for the broadening industry. Producers responded, as hemp acreage in the U.S. tripled from 2017 to 2018. However, CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange division warns that false, outdated, biased or even contradictory information can make it difficult to navigate in this industry.In its latest report, CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange division provides a foundation for understanding some of the key nuances of this growing market and highlights key risks and opportunities. Nine risks or uncertainties that face the hemp industry are identified and assessed on a low to high risk scale for each of hemp’s three crops and markets: fiber, grain/seed and CBD production.  “It is important when talking about the risks and opportunities of hemp to recognize that we are not talking about just one type of crop, and that opportunities and risks should be evaluated case by case,” said Crystal Carpenter, specialty crops analyst with CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange division.“Overall, CBD production has the highest level of risk across the board due to a range of factors,” said Carpenter. “From seed quality, labor costs and availability, THC limit risks and long-term acceptance by the Food and Drug Administration, the industry could face significant headwinds.” While some risks are inherent to a new industry, risks for the hemp industry are compounded by legal and regulatory hurdles, according to the report. The USDA is expected to release hemp regulations and guidance soon. The timing and outcome of future FDA regulation will be critical to the long-term demand for CBD.Carpenter’s full risk table, video synopsis and report are available on CoBank.com.
WHAT HOLIDAY STRESS DOES TO YOUR BRAIN

Neuroscience Expert Shares Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Holiday Anxiety

Festive stress can affect your health more than you realize. Soon, people around the globe will begin the dizzying array of seasonal demands like shopping for gifts, baking cookies, going to parties, cleaning, entertaining, and more. This season is meant to bring feelings of joy and cheer, but for a growing number of people, it brings anxiety. According to a 2006 survey from APA, 38% of people reported elevated levels of stress during the holidays. This number has increased dramatically over the past decade. A recent survey from Healthline said that 62% of people feel moderate to extreme stress. While the exact statistics vary from year to year, the conclusion is obvious: holiday anxiety is very real and it is an issue that many of us face. We have come to accept festive stress as part of the holiday season - much to the detriment of our wellness and our brain health. According to Neuroscience expert Dr. Patrick Porter, there are many things you can do to deactivate the body’s stress response."Stress changes the brain in many ways, from impairing short-term memory to increasing the likelihood of mental health disturbances. It's important that we learn to manage this stress, especially this time of year..."..says Dr. Porter. After the holidays, people feel mentally, physically, and emotionally drained. And it's totally understandable, this time of year has a lot of moving parts. The planning and preparation for social gatherings, gift-giving, and travel is a drain on mental energy. The physical demands of shopping, baking and decorating (not to mention excessive eating) impacts our bodies.  "Since we know this stress is coming, we can ready our brain for it. To do this we must shift our cognitive strategies to respond to the changes in our environment," says Dr. Porter. So how can we shift our cognitive strategies? According to Dr. Porter, simply being mindful of your emotions is the first step. Actively observing your own thoughts and feelings helps you better understand where the stress is coming from so you can manage it more effectively. Mindfulness activities like meditating and journaling can help. Making sleep a priority is also key. Our bodies and brains repair themselves during our sleep cycles. When the quality or quantity of our sleep is poor, we miss out on the restoration process. We are less focused, less resilient, and we have fewer internal resources for managing stress and anxiety. Remember, a little mindfulness and self-care go a long way. The holidays are meant to be a joyful time but if you are stressed and miserable, no one wins. It's vital to include yourself in the season of giving. Carving out time for self-care prevents burnout and makes for a happier healthier holiday. Dr. Porter is sharing tips and actionable advice people can use to tame festive stress, reduce symptoms of anxiety, and improve mental and physical wellness this holiday season.  IN AN INTERVIEW OR ARTICLE, DR. PORTER CAN DISCUSS:What festive stress does to your brain and your healthHow to train your brain to tame festive stress5 ways you can counteract stress and support your brain health this holiday seasonHow to biohack the brain for a happier healthier holiday ABOUT DR. PATRICK PORTER:Dr. Patrick K. Porter, PhD, is an award-winning author and speaker who has devoted his career to neuroscience and brainwave entrainment. As the creator of BrainTap Technology™, Porter has emerged as a leader in the digital health and wellness field. BrainTap’s digital tools and mind development apps use Creative Visualization and Relaxation, a biohacking technique that has made tremendous advances in treating mental, physical, and emotional health issues. Braintap has been praised for helping people overcome stress and insomnia, lose weight, stop smoking, manage pain, accelerate learning, and much more.  FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: www.braintap.com
DEPRESSION, DRUGS & THE DOWNWARD SPIRAL

"I MASKED MY DEPRESSION
WITH DRUGS & PARTYING..."


One Man's Horrific Tragedy Now Inspires Students to Talk about Mental Health “They thought I was a jock who just loved to party...but I was doing it to numb my severe depression...” ...says Ethan Fisher reflecting on his teenage years. From the outside looking in, Ethan Fisher had the world at his feet. A popular high school student-athlete, he was the captain of his basketball team and a fun-loving friend who loved to party. But years of untreated depression, peer-pressured substance abuse, and negative self-talk enveloped his impressionable mind and led him down a destructive and tragic path. Sadly, this is something all too common.According to the CDC, approximately 1.9 million children have diagnosed depression and by 12th grade, about two-thirds of students have tried substances such as alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana.Growing up in a family that did not speak openly about mental health, Ethan spent his teenage years secretly battling clinical depression while he publicly received accolades for his uncommon talent on the basketball court. He began to self-medicate, leading to a years-long battle with alcoholism and substance abuse. After failing out of several college basketball programs, several attempts with suicide, and one horrific car accident, Ethan found himself in prison with a daunting 3-year sentence. While in prison, surrounded by negativity, he just knew he had to make a change when he got released.   "Students of all ages are abusing alcohol, drugs at an alarmingly high rate. In today’s society, peer pressure from social media can lead to depression, suicide and self-medicating abuse with Alcohol and Drugs.Unless something tragic happens, they do not have to face the dire consequences of their decisions. That is where my life and keynote presentation comes into play... "...says Fisher who is now an alcohol, drug, and mental health awareness keynote speaker. Sober since 2004, Ethan went on to become the first athlete in Colorado to play college basketball on inmate status and was recognized as an All-Conference and MVP. He graduated summa cum laude, was awarded the entrepreneurship student of the year award and was the recipient of the President's award. Ethan’s experiences became a catalyst for his devotion to inspiring others. "Kids open up to me about their deepest darkest issues because I tell them my own deepest darkest issues." The letters I get from kids fuels me every day to inspire change and encourage kids to speak out about mental health," says Fisher. Ethan Fisher is on a mission to prevent students and student-athletes across the country from making poor choices and bad decisions while changing their perspective about alcohol and drugs.  IN AN INTERVIEW OR AN ARTICLE, ETHAN CAN DISCUSS:His incredible story of beating depression, drugs, and the downward spiral.Warning signs of mental health issues or addictionWhat to do if you know someone who needs helpWhat people can do today to help the cause and fight depression and substance abuseTechniques for channeling desire into purposeful action.ABOUT ETHAN FISHER:Ethan Fisher is a keynote speaker, author, and mental health advocate who draws from his life experience to challenge, motivate and inspire students and people of all ages. From star high school athlete, to prison inmate, to the recipient of an MBA with honors, Fisher's life is a lesson in accountability, passion, and perseverance.A raw and passionate speaker, Fisher has shared his story in hundreds of cities, motivating and engaging almost 75,000 audience members to take hold of their lives and pursue their dreams. Fisher is also the founder of Life CONsequences,a non-profit to support education and prevention for students and student-athletes. Fisher was featured in the best-seller, The Heart Led Leader (#1 Wall Street Journal, #8 New York Times, #1 Amazon Business) newspaper articles, as well as podcasts, radio, and TV shows.FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:  www.ethan-fisher.com

Gastro Girl, Inc. and American College of Gastroenterology
Introduce GI OnDEMAND: Gastroenterology’s Virtual Care and Support Platform

Telehealth Features Enable Reimbursement for Video Visits; Full-Ecosystem Support Provides Patients with Easy and Convenient Way to Manage Chronic Digestive Health Conditions

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San Antonio, Texas (October 28, 2019) – Gastro Girl, Inc. in partnership with the American College of Gastroenterology today announces a joint venture to bring GI OnDEMAND to market as gastroenterology’s virtual care and support platform. GI OnDEMAND features telehealth capabilities that enable providers to get reimbursed for out-of-office patient support and provide patients with an easy and convenient way to manage their chronic digestive health conditions through virtual office visits with their gastroenterologists and other members of their care team, such as registered dietitians and psychologists who have specific GI expertise. Patients also have access to trusted health information and an online support community.

"In partnership with Gastro Girl, ACG is excited to bring GI OnDEMAND to our members and the millions of patients they collectively serve,” said ACG President Sunanda V. Kane, MD, MSPH, FACG. “This bold initiative is aligned with the College’s mission to advance gastroenterology and improve patient care. We are confident that our members, who like most healthcare providers are navigating an ever-changing and challenging healthcare environment, will find GI OnDEMAND a catalyst to delivering next-generation patient care while expanding their opportunities for reimbursement.”

GI OnDEMAND is created to integrate with a provider’s patient workflow with easy scheduling and documentation of virtual patient appointments. Similar to in-office visits, providers can submit for reimbursement for the telehealth patient care services they provide, according to Jordan J. Karlitz, MD, FACG, Chief Medical Officer and Director of Clinical Operations, Gastro Girl.  "When one considers that GIs may provide multiple hours of patient care services per week in between in person office visits, frequently by telephone or email, GI OnDemand is a game changer. It can enhance continuity of care, provide HIPAA-compliant provider-patient communication and can allow reimbursement for out of office encounters."

“Addressing a critical gap that exists for patients who are living with chronic GI health conditions, GI OnDEMAND provides full-ecosystem support between office visits to improve the collaborative partnership between patients and their digestive health caregivers and help patients better adhere to their treatment plans,” said Gastro Girl Founder, Jacqueline Gaulin.  “Gastro Girl’s partnering with ACG, an organization with a unique focus on clinical gastroenterology and the needs of practicing GI clinicians and their patients, means that GI OnDemand has the clinical backbone and essential features to support the professional needs of GI practices in providing high quality care and patient support via telehealth.”

About GI OnDEMAND

GI OnDEMAND is a joint venture between the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) and Gastro Girl, Inc. As gastroenterology’s virtual care and support platform, GI OnDEMAND is offered as an ACG member benefit and features telehealth capabilities that enable providers to get reimbursed for out-of-office patient support and provide patients with an easy and convenient way to manage their chronic digestive health conditions through virtual office visits; access to trusted health information and an online support community. GI OnDEMAND features a comprehensive HIPAA-compliant telehealth suite that includes secure video, end-to-end practice management tools like scheduling, document sharing, EHR integration, billing, and other capabilities and workflow solutions designed for next-generation patient engagement. giondemand.com

About the American College of Gastroenterology

Founded in 1932, the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) is an organization with an international membership of more than 14,000 individuals from 86 countries. The College's vision is to be the pre-eminent professional organization that champions the evolving needs of clinicians in the delivery of high quality, evidence-based, and compassionate health care to gastroenterology patients. The mission of the College is to advance world-class care for patients with gastrointestinal disorders through excellence, innovation and advocacy in the areas of scientific investigation, education, prevention and treatment. gi.org. Follow ACG on Twitter @AmCollegeGastro

About Gastro Girl, Inc.

Gastro Girl, Inc., is a patient-centric health company that empowers patients to achieve optimal digestive health. Leveraging the latest technologies and its partnership with The American College of Gastroenterology (ACG), Gastro Girl’s mission is to bring GI stakeholders together to provide patients with the help they need when and how they need it.  Since 2016 Gastro Girl has served as the ACG’s official patient education partner, expanding this partnership in 2019 to bring GI OnDEMAND to market as gastroenterology’s virtual care and support platform. Learn more at gastrogirl.com. Follow Gastro Girl on Twitter @gastrogirl.

Patients in Quebec now have access to DUPIXENT™ for the treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis

* Quebec becomes the first province to list DUPIXENT™ for public reimbursement in adult patients 

TORONTO, Oct. 22, 2019 /CNW/ - Patients living in Quebec will now have access, through the Régie de l'assurance maladie Québec (RAMQ), to DUPIXENT™ (dupilumab).1 DUPIXENT™ is used to treat adult patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) whose disease is not adequately controlled with topical prescription therapies or when those therapies are not advisable.2 It is anticipated that additional jurisdictions will be adding DUPIXENT™ on their public formularies in the near future.

"People living with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis often experience chronic, intense, and sometimes unbearable symptoms that can significantly impact their daily lives," says Amanda Cresswell-Melville, Executive Director of the Eczema Society of Canada. "The Quebec reimbursement addresses the growing need for greater access to treatment options that can help to improve the lives of patients suffering with a more severe form of atopic dermatitis."

Atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema, is a chronic inflammatory disease.3 In its moderate-to-severe form, it is characterized by rashes that can potentially cover much of the body, and can include intense, persistent itching, skin lesions and skin dryness, cracking redness, crusting and oozing.4 Inadequately controlled atopic dermatitis can have a physical, emotional and psychosocial impact, causing sleep disturbance, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and feelings of isolation.5

"We are thrilled that Quebec patients in need will now have access to DUPIXENT™. DUPIXENT™ was previously only covered under private drug insurance in Canada, making this the first step in allowing for public funding of the first targeted therapy for moderate-to-severe AD," says Marissa Poole, General Manager, Sanofi Genzyme Canada. "Sanofi will continue to work in ensuring that DUPIXENT is available through the provincial, territorial and federal drug formularies." 

Eligibility of public drug programs 

RAMQ is the government health insurance board of Québec. RAMQ administers over 40 programs, including but not limited to the reimbursement of medical costs incurred by Quebeckers outside Québec. 

The following persons are eligible for the Public Prescription Drug Insurance Plan:

  • Persons without access to a private plan
  • Persons age 65 and over who have not joined a private plan 
  • Recipients of last-resort financial assistance and certain other holders of claim slips 

Further information on eligibility of the program can be found here:

About DUPIXENT

DUPIXENT™ (dupilumab) – the first biologic therapy in Canada to target the root cause of atopic dermatitis (AD) was first approved by Health Canada on November 30, 2017 for the treatment of adult patients with moderate-to-severe AD whose disease is not adequately controlled with topical prescription therapies or when those therapies are not advisable.6 Clinical studies showed an acceptable safety profile with a significant improvement in the condition of patients' skin and reduction in itch within the first four months of biweekly treatment.On September 18, 2019, DUPIXENT™ also received Health Canada approval for the treatment of adolescent patients aged 12 years and older with moderate-to-severe AD.8 The long-term safety profile of DUPIXENT™ observed in adolescents was consistent with that seen in adults with atopic dermatitis.9 DUPIXENT™ is jointly developed by Regeneron and Sanofi under a global collaboration agreement.

About Sanofi, Canada

Sanofi, Canada employs more than 2,000 people. In 2017, we invested in $123 million in R&D in Canada, creating jobs, business and opportunities throughout the country. 

Follow us on Twitter and YouTube.

About Sanofi 

Sanofi is dedicated to supporting people through their health challenges. We are a global biopharmaceutical company focused on human health. We prevent illness with vaccines, provide innovative treatments to fight pain and ease suffering. We stand by the few who suffer from rare diseases and the millions with long-term chronic conditions.

With more than 100,000 people in 100 countries, Sanofi is transforming scientific innovation into healthcare solutions around the globe. 

Sanofi, Empowering Life 

References

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Dupixent™ (dupilumab) Product Monograph. Page 3. August 2019.
Dupixent™ (dupilumab) Product Monograph. Page 3. August 2019.
Mount Sinai. Patient Care Atopic Dermatitis. Available at: http://www.mountsinai.org/patient-care/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/atopic-dermatitis#risk. Accessed August 1, 2019.
Mount Sinai. Patient Care Atopic Dermatitis. Available at: http://www.mountsinai.org/patient-care/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/atopic-dermatitis#risk. Accessed August 1, 2019.
5 Eczema Society of Canada. (2017). Atopic Dermatitis Quality of Life Report (Moderate-to-Severe Disease – 2016/2017 Survey Results). Keswick, Ontario.
6 Dupixent™ (dupilumab) Product Monograph. Page 3. August 2019.
7 Dupixent™ (dupilumab) Product Monograph. Page 19 (Figure 3). August 2019. 
8 Dupixent™ (dupilumab) Product Monograph. Page 3. September 2019. 
9 Dupixent™ (dupilumab) Product Monograph. Page 7. September 2019. 

SOURCE Sanofi Canada

Scotiabank Brings #PathToImpact to Life During Small Business Week

Large-scale installation to run from October 21-25 in Toronto -

TORONTO, Oct. 21, 2019 /CNW/ - Scotiabank today unveils Path to Impact, an artful installation that brings to life the journey of starting and building a business in Canada. Standing up to 10 feet tall, the immersive installation will be open to the public in downtown Toronto during Small Business Week. 

The installation will open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET from Monday, October, 21 to Friday, October, 25, at an outdoor space at 464 King St. West, near the busy intersection of King and Spadina. It includes first-person anecdotes from business owners and statistics about five key stages of the business journey, including:

  • The Big Idea: Business success starts with a big idea. Sometimes it's an idea so big that it's hard to process, but it will change everything.

  • Curveballs: This is the stage where thinking turns into doing at an extremely fast pace, and business owners face many curveballs along the way.

  • Doubt & Isolation: In this stage, business owners can feel stuck and question their vision.

  • Closing Doors: It is here when business owners feel like giving up but remember why they started in the first place, then persevere and keep going. 

  • Impact: Finally, the big idea comes to life. Business owners look back on the journey and see how every step has led to impact.

"We know that many Canadian business owners go into business to make an impact on their community, yet often face a number of obstacles along the way. This art installation aims to bring that path to life in an interactive way, giving visitors a first-hand glimpse into that journey," said Jason Charlebois, Senior Vice President, Small Business for Scotiabank. "We're committed to working with businesses of all sizes to make their path to impact less of a struggle and more of a success." 

Scotiabank offers business solutions to help business owners bring their own big ideas to life and to support them through every stage. Through a team of dedicated advisors, Scotiabank provides personal and business banking solutions, personalized advice, and dedicated programs that cater to a business owner's unique needs and future goals. This includes a multitude of solutions for small business owners such as the Select Account for Business and the Scotiabank Passport™ Visa Infinite* Business Card

Scotiabank is also committed to empowering women-led businesses through The Scotiabank Women Initiative™, and providing tailored financial solutions for Canada's medical doctors with the Scotiabank Healthcare+ Physician Banking Program. 

For more information, follow #PathToImpact and visit www.scotiabank.com/PathToImpact

About Scotiabank
Scotiabank is Canada's international bank and a leading financial services provider in the Americas. We are dedicated to helping our more than 25 million customers become better off through a broad range of advice, products and services, including personal and commercial banking, wealth management and private banking, corporate and investment banking, and capital markets. With a team of more than 100,000 employees and assets of over $1 trillion (as at July 31, 2019), Scotiabank trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: BNS) and New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BNS). For more information, please visit www.scotiabank.com and follow us on Twitter @ScotiabankViews.

™ Trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. *Visa Int./ Licensed user.

SOURCE Scotiabank

DON’T LOSE YOUR MOJO WHEN THE CLOCKS FALL BACK NOVEMBER 3rd

Neuropsychologist Offers Practical Tips to Prepare for  Daylight Savings Time 

www.comprehendthemind.com

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That post-summer sluggishness usually kicks in every October as we head into fall. The temperatures drop and the one thing that makes winter’s rapid approach evident regardless of climate is the loss of daylight. For many, this loss of daylight also leads to a loss of energy, an uptick in short temper and even bouts of depression. So how can we ease into the rapidly approaching winter months? Dr. Sanam Hafeez, an NYC based licenses clinical psychologist and faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teachers College, offers practical tips to prepare for the clock change.

Before we get into the tips, it’s important to understand the clock change’s impact on our brains and therefore our bodies, so we understand what is actually going on. Dr. Sanam Hafeez explains that “a cell in the retinas of our eyes called a ganglion cell contains the photopigment melanopsin. When we are exposed to sunlight, melanopsin signals a pathway to cells in the hypothalamus specifically responsible for regulating our bodies biological functions. This process then triggers the pineal gland which is in charge of melatonin secretion which peaks at night and wears off during the day. In simpler terms, the less light exposure we get, more out of whack we feel.”

According to Dr. Hafeez, the following simple adjustments leading up to the clock falling back can make a significant difference for those who don’t struggle with more severe depression or bipolar disorder. 

1. Avoid alcohol. 

When the clocks are turned back in the fall, many bars stay open an additional hour. This is typically celebrated by people in their 20’s and 30’s who only pay for it the next day opting to sleep away their Sunday. Drinking alcohol before turning back the clocks can add more sluggishness the next morning. “Even with just a one-hour clock change, our body’s circadian rhythm is thrown off making our brains a bit confused. Alcohol only heightens these effects,” explains Dr. Hafeez. Imagine the double whammy of a hangover after the fall back clock change? 

2. Enjoy physical activity during the daytime. 

The more time spent outside in the daylight doing physical activity, the less sluggish you will feel once the clocks fall back. Fall is a great time to powerwalk or go for a run. If you’re an early riser then you will love the earlier sunrise at least for the next few weeks. “A lot of people shift their exercise routines to include more high energy group workouts in the evenings to give themselves something to look forward to as a way to shake off the workday. You really want to pay attention to when you feel most energized and align your exercise to that,” suggests Dr. Hafeez. 

3. Don’t sleep in. Go to bed earlier instead.

In the days leading up to the clock change, add extra “wind-down” time before bed and get to bed an hour earlier. On the Sunday morning of the clock change, people mistakenly opt to sleep in. You really want to stick to the same wake-up time while getting to bed earlier. That’s the key according to Dr. Hafeez. “People think they are gaining an hour of sleep, they’re not because at bedtime they’re losing it. When you keep the wake-up time and get to bed earlier that extra hour isn’t felt as much the next day,” explains Dr. Hafeez.

4. Avoid watching the news before bed. 

People think that getting to bed an hour earlier means it’s ok to watch TV in bed before sleep. TV or any kind stimulates the brain. Your favorite show causes you to focus when you’re trying to shut down stimulation. The news is even worse. You get wrapped up in the doom and gloom watching the news. “If you want to really make sure you still wake up refreshed, opt for tranquil music or guided meditations available on YouTube or an app, recommends Dr. Hafeez.” 

5. Plan ahead! Consider taking Monday off!

For those who find their mood is negatively impacted after the fall clock change, consider taking Monday off and make it about self-care. Waking up early, taking advantage of the early light, enjoying a healthy breakfast, getting a massage or catching up on reading, tidying and whatever you feel necessary to feel good, do it. “People can feel the effects of the clock change for up to 3 weeks. Taking a day off to focus on your own well-being can become a nice post clock change ritual,” she says.  

About the Doctor:

Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD is an NYC based licensed clinical psychologist, teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College and the founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. a neuropsychological, developmental and educational center in Manhattan and Queens. Dr. Hafeez masterfully applies her years of experience connecting psychological implications to address some of today’s common issues such as body image, social media addiction, relationships, workplace stress, parenting and psychopathology (bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, etc…). In addition, Dr. Hafeez works with individuals who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, attention and memory problems, and abuse. Dr. Hafeez often shares her credible expertise to various news outlets in New York City and frequently appears on CNN and Dr.Oz.

Connect with Dr.Hafeez via Instagram @drsanamhafeez or www.comprehendthemind.com

Avicanna Announces Retail Launch of Pura Earth Derma-Cosmetics with Initial Roll-Out in Colombia

Pura Earth derma-cosmetics available in approximately 59 retail locations throughout Colombia, including Blind prestige beauty shops and Cromantic professional beauty markets 

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TORONTO, Oct. 21, 2019 /CNW/ - Avicanna Inc. ("Avicanna" or the "Company") (TSX: AVCN) (OTCQX: AVCNF), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development, manufacturing and commercialization of organic and sustainable plant-derived cannabinoid-based products, is pleased to announce the retail launch of its Pura Earth™ derma-cosmetics line of CBD products, which are now available at approximately 59 high-end retail locations throughout Colombia, including Blind prestige beauty shops and Cromantic professional beauty markets.

Avicanna's Anti-Aging Treatment, Anti-Aging Serum, Clear Skin Treatment and Intensive Skin Conditioning Treatment, which are the first four of the nine Pura Earth product lines, are currently available at retail. Additionally the Pura Earth line will be offered on e-commerce platforms, including Percos, Cormantic, and Blind, as well as Avicanna's own platform, which is currently dedicated to Pura Earth.

The registration of the Pura Earth products as final products in Colombia will enable Avicanna to export such products into international jurisdictions that permit such products. Avicanna expects to launch the Pura Earth brand in additional international jurisdictions in early-2020.

The Pura Earth products were produced with Avicanna's proprietary formulations using cannabidiol ("CBD") isolate extracted by the Company's majority owned subsidiary, Santa Marta Golden Hemp S.A.S. ("SMGH"), from cannabis grown and cultivated by SMGH in Santa Marta, Colombia. SMGH's CBD isolate is derived from its USDA organic certified hemp (non-psychoactive cannabis). Additionally, the Pura Earth products will be supported by clinical data from studies conducted by the Centro de Atención e Investigación Médica CAIMED S.A.S. in collaboration with Avicanna. 

"We are thrilled to start offering customers the world's first premium CBD skin care line with advanced formulations and substantiated claims through clinical evidence. The initial launch of Pura Earth in Colombia at these prestige beauty retailers is just the beginning of our global commercial strategy.  Our vertically integrated operations have the scalability to support manufacturing a full range of premium CBD products and supply the global marketplace," stated Aras Azadian, Avicanna's Chief Executive Officer.

Colombia is one of the top four cosmetics markets in Latin America showing high growth rate in the cosmetics industry. The Latin America cosmetics industry is continuously expanding and has placed itself as one of the fastest growing and most vibrant cosmetic markets across the world. As per Goldstein Research, Latin America cosmetics market has reached a value of USD $31.98 billion in 2017 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.49% during the forecast period 2017-2025.

About Pura Earth

Pura Earth is Avicanna's derma-cosmetic line which utilizes a combination of purified cannabidiol (CBD) and other synergistic botanical ingredients designed to naturally regulate and nourish the skin. The Pura Earth products are formulated with CBD cultivated under organic and sustainable conditions by Avicanna's subsidiary in Santa Marta, Colombia in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The Pura Earth product line was designed by Avicanna and optimized in partnership with the University of Toronto using Avicanna's proprietary formulations. The Pura Earth product line is manufactured by Altea Farmaceutica S.A. ("Altea") under Good Manufacturing Practices standards. In addition, Centro de Atención e Investigación Médica CAIMED S.A.S. is currently completing clinical studies on selected Pura Earth products in order to demonstrate their effectiveness with specific cosmetic endpoints, such as reduction of fine lines associated with aging, efficacy as a moisturizer for eczema prone skin, and reduction of sebum and redness attributed to acne.

About Avicanna

Avicanna is an Ontario corporation focused on the development, manufacturing and commercialization of plant-derived cannabinoid-based products through its two main business segments, cultivation and research and development.

Avicanna's two majority-owned subsidiaries, Sativa Nativa S.A.S. and Santa Marta Golden Hemp S.A.S., both located in Santa Marta, Colombia are the base for Avicanna's cultivation activities. These two companies are licensed to cultivate and process cannabis for the production of cannabis extracts and purified cannabinoids including cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

Avicanna's research and development business is primarily conducted out of Canada at its headquarters in the Johnson & Johnson Innovation Centre, JLABS @ Toronto. Avicanna's scientific team develops products, and Avicanna has also engaged the services of researchers at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Toronto for the purpose of optimizing and improving upon its products.

Avicanna's research and development and cultivation activities are focused on the development of its key products, including plant-derived cannabinoid pharmaceuticals, phyto-therapeutics, derma-cosmetics and Extracts (defined as plant-derived cannabinoid extracts and purified cannabinoids, including distillates and isolates), with a goal of eventually having these products manufactured and distributed through various markets.

Stay Connected

For more information about Avicanna, visit www.avicanna.com, call 1-647-243-5283, or contact Setu Purohit, President by email info@avicanna.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements

Certain information in this press release contains forward-looking statements. Such statements include but are not limited to the offering of the Pura Earth products on e-commerce platforms, the exportation of the Pura Earth Products into international jurisdictions, the expected launch date of the Pura Earth products internationally and the expected results of the clinical data supporting the Pura Earth products. This information is based on current expectations that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict, including the risk factors set out under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's long form final prospectus dated July 8, 2019. Actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, unless and until required by securities laws applicable to the Company.

SOURCE Avicanna Inc.

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