New Study Confirms Run to Quit helps to boost physical activity and cut down on smoking

Six months after Run to Quit completed its first year, an impressive 40 per cent of participants surveyed said they had quit smoking and 43 per cent said they were also running on average three times a week.
In addition, 91 per cent of participants who completed the program said they had cut back on smoking and 97 per cent reported Run to Quit helped them to exercise more.
Run to Quit is being studied by researchers from the University of British Columbia for its potential as a chronic disease prevention program.
“We saw participants shift in terms of the way they saw themselves; first as smokers and eventually to runners fully embracing the Running Room culture. Their confidence to both quit smoking and run increased as did their overall physical and mental health scores,” says Dr. Carly Priebe, a researcher at UBC.
Participants’ confidence to quit smoking grew from 67 per cent at the beginning of the program to 80 per cent by week three.
“Maintaining health behaviour change is really difficult, but 24 per cent continue to be engaged with Running Room walk and run programs,” reports Priebe.
Run to Quit is a unique program that pairs the quit-smoking expertise of the Canadian Cancer Society with Running Room Canada’s learn to walk or run 5 km clinics. The step-by-step program helps smokers cope with discomfort and cravings through its simple and encouraging approach to cutting down while they become more physically active.
“While quitting smoking is the biggest goal for most Run to Quit participants, we know that staying active is important to reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer. We were happy to see that participants really embraced exercise,” says John Atkinson, director, cancer prevention and tobacco control, Canadian Cancer Society. “Participants who continue to exercise are doing even more than the recommended guidelines of 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity per week.”
In its first year, Run to Quit welcomed more than 1,000 participants in all three streams of the program – online, do it yourself, and in-store training. In-store training was offered in 21 stores in six provinces. This year, the program has expanded to include 50 stores in all provinces as well as online training options available three times per year. The program will continue to expand to more than 100 stores next year to reach as many smokers as possible.
“Run to Quit’s pilot program shows promising results in influencing measurable healthy behaviour and lifestyle change," said Dr. Jane Philpott, Minister of Health. "This innovative quit-smoking and active living program is a leading example of how government, the not-for-profit and the private sectors can work together to encourage healthier lifestyles for Canadians."
Emmanuelle Connelly was a smoker for more than 30 years. She started as a teen and tried to quit several times over the years, but it wasn’t until a routine mammogram gave her a health scare that she decided she really needed to quit urgently. Her aunt had suffered from cancer and Emmanuelle was determined to reduce her risk as much as possible.
“I have never been physically active and the thought of having to run in public intimidated me, even more than quitting smoking,” says Emmanuelle. ”But Run to Quit’s approach to quitting smoking and getting active was done in baby steps and the group kept me accountable. Once I overcame my first craving, I knew I could quit smoking and used the techniques I learned from the program. In the end, I quit smoking and I continue to run. It’s liberating to be able to lace up and run anytime I feel like it.”
Survey results show that 100% of participants who completed the program would recommend it to a friend who wanted to quit smoking.
“I am a former smoker, like so many of our Run to Quit trainers,” said John Stanton, founder and CEO of Running Room Canada. “It’s been a thrill and privilege to show people through Run To Quit how to identify as athletes and to commit to an athletic lifestyle with the help of our running and walking clinics. We look forward to welcoming current smokers to be lifetime athletes with the camaraderie and support of our running community.”
Additional information on survey results:
- 1000 participants joined all streams of Run to Quit in 2016
- 184 in-store clinics
- 71 online clinics
- 815 Do It Yourself program
- 83 participants were interviewed as part of the six-month follow up survey
- 40 per cent reported quitting smoking
- 28 per cent were successful at not smoking for six whole months (since the training program ended)
- 43 per cent per cent said they were also running on average three times a week.
Registration for Run to Quit is now open and available in all provinces across Canada. To register or for more information, visit runtoquit.com. Run to Quit is funded in part by the Public Health Agency of Canada. Thanks to quit partners NICODERM® and NICORETTE® all eligible participants will receive coupons for nicotine replacement therapy products to help them quit smoking.
Q&A to Researcher: Is the strength in this program the maintenance quit smoking rate and sustained physical activity rate six month after program completion? Or is the strength of the program that it gets people physically active while quitting smoking?
"I think that BOTH of these are huge assets of the program! We often don't see behaviour change maintained over time so the fact that we saw decent quit rates and a significant increase in physical activity and then saw this maintained is a really positive finding. It's also important to highlight that this program targets multiple health behaviours and therefore gives you more "bang for your buck" when it comes to health and a lifestyle change. Even if someone didn't quit, increasing physical activity is an important outcome. If you can do both (quit and increase activity), you're well on your way to numerous health benefits (in the case of quitting smoking, many of these health benefits are very immediate). In terms of bringing in the evaluation, our findings support that the program truly does target BOTH of these behaviours (smoking cessation and activity) and we saw significant changes in both."
About the Canadian Cancer Society
The Canadian Cancer Society is a national, community-based organization of volunteers whose mission is to eradicate cancer and enhance the quality of life of people living with cancer. Thanks to our donors and volunteers, the Society has the most impact, against the most cancers, in the most communities in Canada. For more information, visit cancer.ca or call our toll-free bilingual Cancer Information Service at 1-888-939-3333 (TTY 1-866-786-3934)
Tonica Kombucha - Review
What is Kombucha?

According to Wikipedia:
Kombucha is a variety of fermented, lightly effervescent sweetened black or green tea drinks that are commonly intended as functional beverages for their supposed health benefits. Kombucha is produced by fermenting tea using a "symbiotic 'colony' of bacteria and yeast" (SCOBY). Actual contributing microbial populations in SCOBY cultures vary, but the yeast component generally includes Saccharomyces and other species, and the bacterial component almost always includes Gluconacetobacter xylinus to oxidize yeast-produced alcohols to acetic and other acids.
Although it has been claimed to have numerous health benefits, there is no good evidence that drinking kombucha has such effects.[1] By contrast, there are several documented cases of serious adverse effects, including fatalities, related to kombucha drinking, possibly arising from contamination during home preparation.[2][3] Since the mostly unclear benefits of kombucha drinking do not outweigh the known risks, it is not recommended for therapeutic use.[1]
Despite their being claims there is no good evidence. I think it affects other people differently. The Tonica is naturally carbonated, only 45 calories per bottle, organic, raw and GMO free. Its also made in Canada. However a lot of carbs for a drink. I would rather not drink my carbs personally. However, it was really tasty and thirst quenching. But then again so is water. Until theres some good scientific background to its claims I probably wont be drinking any more kombucha any time soon.
The Tonica is bowed and bottled with natural carbonation over the course of a full 10 day ferment. According to them their brew preserves the integrity of ancient kombucha and delights todays customer with their certified organic tea infusions.
Its certified USDA Organic, Canada Organic and certified Raw.
Visit the website for more information www.tonicakombucha.com
The Complete Smart Fitness Watch Arrives
with HUAWEI WATCH 2

Huawei Consumer Business Group (CBG) today defined a new category of wearable technology with the HUAWEI WATCH 2. Using the latest research result and developments from technology innovator Huawei, the watch combines the connectivity of a smartphone, the smarter living applications of a premium smartwatch and the detailed performance coaching and tracking of a leading sports tracking device, all in the form of a stylish classical wristwatch.
HUAWEI WATCH 2 inherits the classic design of the original HUAWEI WATCH while introducing new innovations in every category to better empower users’ spirit of exploration and help them enjoy an active lifestyle.
The watch will go on sale in Spain, France, Portugal, Italy, Germany and China this March, priced from 329 € depending on the design and features being chosen. It will become available in additional countries including the US, the UK, Russia and Australia from April. For full details on release schedule see notes to editors below.
In a world where technology has become more and more integrated into our lives, the HUAWEI WATCH 2 is a product for those who yearn for the freedom to explore while staying connected, without having to be glued to a smartphone. Powered by
the Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ Wear 2100 processor HUAWEI WATCH 2 (4G supported version) has independent connectivity, allowing users to send messages or make calls independently of a mobile phone. It also features compatibility for the latest smart living applications. Featuring support for cellular networks and running on the new Android WearTM 2.0 ensures connectivity for both AndroidTM and iOS users and means the HUAWEI WATCH 2 embodies the spirit of openness and exploration for all.
Independent connectivity to suit your exploration
With HUAWEI WATCH 2 (4G supported version), users can leave their mobile phone at home and go running, cycling or just exploring while staying connected. Thanks to independent mobile connectivity and a built in GPS chip, users can respond to calls and text messages, use independent apps like Uber, Foursquare and Telegram. The innovative design means that this extra connectivity comes with no sacrifice on quality. VoLTE support and dual-mic noise elimination help ensure a stable and clear telephone experience while the integration of the antennae on the upper watch case for dual 4G, GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and NFC in the device significantly strengthens connectivity, allowing HUAWEI WATCH 2 to stay compact while ensuring good signal reception.
Besides the SIM version working with mobile network carriers worldwide, the HUAWEI WATCH 2 also provides an eSIM version (available to limited countries).
What’s more, some carriers feature a one-number-multi-SIM service. There’s no need for a new number, as the watch and your mobile phone can share the same number. Going far beyond being just a partner to a smartphone, the HUAWEI WATCH 2 (4G supported version) provides the flexible connectivity required in a modern active life and gets everything controlled by one hand.

The complete health and exercise partner
HUAWEI WATCH 2 is also a high specification fitness device that uses multiple sensors with advanced algorithms to provide fitness solutions and make working out more efficient and effective. Built-in smart sensors collect comprehensive data on user activity, including distance, speed, steps, heart rate, heart rate range, calories, gait, route and more.
With one click on the crown HUAWEI WATCH 2 opens the workout App to start training in an instant. Quick start running modes “fat-burning run” and “cardio run” allow runners to start quickly and the watch will guide your speed to stay in the correct heart rate zone. Running with HUAWEI WATCH 2 enables you to get real time guidance including notifications on distance, target completion status and racing heart warning and based on calculated workout plans, HUAWEI WATCH 2 can also dynamically notify you to either accelerate or decelerate to guide you through every stage of your run. With the support of HUAWEI WATCH 2’s GPS and heart rate detection system, HUAWEI WATCH 2 measures your VO2max after each run. After a valid run the watch automatically generates a report that advises on recovery time and training effects.
Other supporting elements include the built in GPS that tracks your exercise route. HUAWEI WATCH 2 also allows you to add music to your workout through the Google PlayTM Music app. Users can download songs, stream music and access their playlists.
Beyond just exercise, HUAWEI WATCH 2 promotes healthy living all day. The Daily Tracking App accurately tracks users’ daily steps, record time taken for medium to high intensity exercises, and detect the number of times you stand up after long sedentary periods. All this information is reported via progress bars to encourage a healthier and more active life. Continuous heart rate monitoring tracks your heart rate in the background and reports your heart rate of the last six hours in a curved line. HUAWEI WATCH 2 also measures your Resting Heart Rate, which is recorded in the activity monitor app.
Chronograph watch design
The HUAWEI WATCH 2 has a classical wristwatch design that integrates its smart features and sport functions while maintaining a stylish look. Made from sophisticated materials, a dual crown design delivers a premium feel. While honouring the classics, the watch is adaptable to the wearer’s personality, with both classical and sporty design options. The high-definition display is customisable with multiple face designs, allowing users quick access to their favourite and most frequently used apps. In addition to a chronographdesign, HUAWEI WATCH 2 features a ceramic bezel that provides a fine quality while offering a comfortable wearing experience.
The watch is also designed for comfort and fit during exercise, meaning it is curved to sit perfectly against the wrist. It is smaller and more compact than the previous generation HUAWEI Watch with its parts on one side accounting for 88% of the total area of the watch.
Porsche Design HUAWEI Smartwatch
Technology innovator Huawei and premium lifestyle brand Porsche Design extend their partnership with the announcement of the new Porsche Design HUAWEI Smartwatch. Complementing the Porsche Design HUAWEI Mate 9, which was launched in November 2016, the product further enriches the user experience. Again, the collaboration brings together the latest innovations in technology with the most functional design, creating an equilibrium of aesthetics and function. It combines the latest activity tracking and fitness management functions with the connectivity and smart technology of a leading smart wearable device. For those who demand style and substance, the Porsche Design HUAWEI Smartwatch delivers professional standard fitness tracking, the latest smart functions and sophisticated design - all from the wrist.
The innovative smart watch is the first ever to be created by Porsche Design and part of a continuous roll out of smart devices, which will be released in the upcoming months.
Richard Yu, CEO of Huawei Consumer Business Group said of the launch: “In today’s fragmented information age, the real function of technology is to provide convenience and connectivity without intruding on your daily life. We wanted to make a product that suits those individuals who wish to explore the limits of their own expression, while still being bound by a need to stay connected. With this product there is no need to stay glued to your smartphone. The independent connectivity and smart applications that can be used from your wrist mean you can go for a run or a cycle and leave your phone behind with the freedom of knowing you won’t miss an important message.
Health and wellbeing are vital for the modern consumer, but traditional monitoring devices are overly complicated and often get used for a while and then cast aside. We wanted to bring in all the most up to date monitoring technology into a stylish and smart package, making this the tool that doesn’t just keep you healthy, it is also stylish and helps make your everyday life easier.”
-ENDS-
Availability and Accessories
HUAWEI Watch 2 will be available in more than 20 countries and regions. These include:
Launching in March – Spain, France, Portugal, Italy, Germany, China.
Launching in April – US, UK, Holland, Belgium, Switzerland, Ireland, The Nordics, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, India, South Africa, Poland, Austria, Saudi Arabia, Japan, UAE
Launching in May – Malaysia
Clinical Hypnotherapist Kirsten Bloomquist Solves Serious Health Issues Through the Power of the Subconscious Mind
When facing health or emotional problems, many automatically react by looking for some kind of chemical solution. Obviously, this can often be a short sighted approach and one that can even lead to serious issues. Clinical hypnotherapist Kirsten Bloomquist has stunned clients using a completely different method, employing their own mind power towards healing with often dramatic results. FREE complimentary copies of her book, Powernow, are available to media sources.
If only people new the capabilities of their own minds, and their subconscious minds in particular, entire areas of their life, including their health, could be radically transformed according to author and clinical hypnotherapist Kirsten Bloomquist. Skeptical at first, her name is becoming more and more in demand in natural health circles as word of her successes spread – some, like a documented case of her helping a friend tap into their power of their mind that resulted in a malignant tumor vanishing completely, have opened eyes and minds literally worldwide.
In exciting news, Bloomquist is making her methods available in a ground breaking new book, Powernow: How to Step into Your Most Powerful Mind Instantly, which delivers not just knowledge on how to use the mind to heal – which is valuable enough – but, also delivers on how to get the subconscious mind on board to improve relationships, to cut unhealthy body fat, build supreme confidence, and perform at an elite level in nearly any kind of activity a person is passionate about.
“When you believe in yourself you can do unbelievable things,” commented Kirsten with her trademark enthusiasm. “I knew I could help change more lives with a book than I could ever touch in personal sessions. Powernow: How To Step Into Your Most Powerful Mind Instantly! is something that is changing lives for those who don't just pick up a copy, but make the decision to change and put the method to work. Once that honest commitment is made real magic can and does happen. And no one is happier than I am to hear about my student's and reader's success stories.”
The intriguing nature of Kirsten's work has made her a very sensible choice for compelling television, internet and radio interviews, all things she loves to take part in, along with contributing written work to likeminded publications.
RT, Skype Hypnotherapy Vancouver Hypnotherapist, recently said in a five star review, “I had fibromyalgia for nearly 25 years and was taking a box full of prescribed medications. I was barely existing throughout my everyday life. After a couple sessions with Kirsten, I'm close to being where I want to be with my health. And I no longer take medications. I feel like a brand new person with a whole new chance at life. All of my friends and family notice a difference in me. They even say I look younger!”
For more information be sure to visit http://www.feelingpowerful.com/.
Black men may have higher risks of poor prostate cancer outcomes

Black men may have higher risks of poor prostate cancer outcomes. With the 2012 US Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) advising against routine PSA screenings, black men may suffer the consequences.
Black men are more likely to die of cancer than any other ethnic group.1
Black men are 65% more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and their risk of dying is 36% higher.2
Paul Crowe, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at Nuview Life Sciences (NVLS), says ethnic groups predisposed to cancer should follow more intensive screening, not less.
Unfortunately, biopsies today are expensive, invasive and often inaccurate:
- 33% of men with an initial "negative" result for prostate cancer do have prostate cancer that was missed by the biopsy.
In addition, black patients who met the age criteria for prostate cancer screening, 55 to 69 years, had higher odds of the disease spreading (76% vs 55%) and mortality (53% vs 25%) than ineligible patients. 2
Per Crowe, this inaccuracy and recommendation to end PSA screening can lead to neglected or even unnecessary treatment, a lowered quality of life or worse:
“In the case of a missed diagnosis, a life can be lost – it doesn’t have to be this way.”
Per Crowe, non-invasive technology is the solution to rapid – and accurate – diagnosis.
NuView has announced its new personalized treatment application that will expedite the identification and treatment of many types of malignant cancers. NuView’s system will, for the first time, assess the lowest minimum treatment required to provide a high-quality of life for those affected.
Crowe says these developments will not only save the U.S. billions of dollars, but will improve the quality of life and healthcare of the consumer (patient) market.
Research and testing using NuView’s exclusive imaging agent have been successful in clinical feasibility studies – reporting 100% accuracy in diagnosing cancer in effected males – and the company plans Phase II clinical trials in 2017.
NuView Life Sciences is a biotechnology company located in Park City, Utah, working to reform the way cancer is diagnosed and treated in our modern healthcare system
Ryan’s Well: 20 Years of Drinking Water to Millions & Growing Stronger
Ontario, Canada - Ryan’s Well Foundation is celebrating its 20th successful year in digging wells to provide clean drinking water to the poorest regions of the developing world. To date, nearly one million people have been impacted in 16 countries with 1,166 water projects installed and 1,245 latrines completed. The Foundation is chugging along like a finely tuned water pump, and endeavoring to triple its human-impact over the next twenty years.
The Foundation’s accomplishments started with the passion and courage of one 6-year-old boy named Ryan Hreljac, back in 1998. Ryan was startled to learn in his grade 1 class that not all children could simply get a drink from the drinking fountain, as he could. “My world changed in that moment, I wanted to do something about the problem. So I started saving money to dig a well. When I realized I couldn’t do it on my own, I began speaking to groups of people to ask them to contribute, and we’ve been digging wells ever since”, said an enthused Ryan. Twenty years later, Ryan is requested to share his story locally and globally to motivate people young and old, to make a positive impact in the world.
Ryan's passion is to end the world’s water crisis. “We couldn’t do it without the help of all the compassionate contributions coming in from around the world, along with the local partners in each region, which makes it not only possible to provide clean water, but also sanitation and hygiene education”, Ryan declared. He went on to talk about the Foundation’s future growth and impact; “By leveraging the tools in our Foundation’s infrastructure, including all the participating schools/teachers/kids, fundraising challenges, business partnerships, relationships, and speaking engagements, I believe we can dramatically increase awareness of the severity of the problem we are solving. After that, human kindness takes over and provides the means to implement!”, he declared with a smile. No doubt Ryan’s initial vision of funding a well was likely considered unattainable for a young child, but Ryan FOUND A WAY, because of his commitment to accomplishing his aspiration. If we’ve learned one lesson from Ryan, it would be that determination quenches.
Dollar-for-dollar Ryan’s Well is one of the world’s most significantly impactful charities. For every $10 donated, one deserving human is provided access to fresh, clean water for many years. Minimal Input = Maximum Output.
Ryan’s story has been featured in many publications and on shows including Oprah, CNN, Wayne Dyer and Readers Digest. For more information or to book Ryan for an appearance, visit our website www.ryanswell.ca or email Megan Glenn at communications@ryanswell.ca

Photo Image Credit: Lesley Marino
You Look Great! 5 Ways to Lighten Up on Physical Appearance

Go on your Facebook or Instagram feed and you’ll be hard pressed not to find selfies of people flexing at the gym or sunbathing in a bikini. Sprinkled in are ads for skin creams, weight management shakes, hair restoration, cosmetic procedures and butt lifting yoga pants. Thanks to smartphones and selfie culture we are all online being bombarded and obsessing over physical appearance, especially our own. Dr. Sanam Hafeez a 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, says it is time to lighten up. Below are some common obsessive thoughts and actions on physical appearance and what to do about them.
- “It takes me an hour and 5 outfit changes before I can leave the house.”
“When you find it difficult to commit to an outfit choice and rapidly change outfits only to look in the mirror thinking everything looks terrible, there is certainly heightened anxiety taking place,” explains Dr. Hafeez. She adds, the problem isn’t the clothes. The problem is self-perception and mindset. “The better you feel about yourself from the inside and the more positive things you have in your life to be appreciative of, the less time you will spend on clothing choices. You’ll know exactly what you want to wear and you’ll be more than satisfied with your choice,” offers Hafeez.
The solution? She suggests training your mind to decide and stick to the style decision by setting an alarm for 5 minutes to brainstorm 2 options. Dr. Hafeez also encourages focusing on where you are going and the positive aspects of the anticipated experience to shift the mind off your physical appearance.
- “I can’t pass a reflective surface without checking myself in it.”
If you’re checking yourself out thinking, you look fantastic and swiftly continue to walk on that’s normal, fine, and even healthy. However, if you are thinking, you need to lose weight, that you have a double chin, that you look old, that your hair is terrible, then you’re beating yourself up and are focused on unattainable perfection. “Our bodies will change and we will age. This is a fact of life. Exercising for as little as 20 minutes per day, eating healthily, walking, reading and meditation are all things that are beneficial to us. When we make how we feel top priority, we start to look good. We’re more radiant, smiling, and have higher, more positive energy,” explains Dr. Hafeez.
- “I never can leave the house without make-up.”
This is a tough one and common for a lot of women. We all want that fresh faced, gorgeous without trying look. Very few women past puberty can achieve it. “There’s a difference between the level of self-consciousness between a woman who takes 10 minutes to put on some moisturizing foundation, mascara and lip gloss and someone who must spend an hour a full face of make-up perfectly applied,” says Dr. Hafeez.
Getting monthly facials and educating yourself on different make up formulations can help you cut down on the amount of make-up needed. This could shorten the time it takes getting glammed up!
- “I constantly compare myself to others on social media, in magazines, in public.”
Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of the Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery who has appeared on national programs such as Good Morning America and 20/20, commenting on physical appearance says comparison mindset is incredibly common. “Ten years ago people would come to me with pictures of celebrities, and now they’re showing me random people on their social media feeds. It is unreasonable to compare yourself to a celebrity as they have a team of trainers and stylists that help them achieve and maintain a certain desired look. Today people see their high school friend on social media with the perfect breasts and they want that same look. People are really comparing themselves to everyone now,” he candidly explains.
Dr. Hafeez advises taking breaks from social media and doing body strengthening and range of motion exercises that also weave in breathing and mindfulness such as yoga or tai chi. “When you are aware of your body’s strength and your general well-being, you’re not going to compare yourself to others. When you’re too busy enjoying a happy, healthy, you won’t care if your thighs are less toned than someone else’s.
- “I have a list of cosmetic procedures I want to do and am planning to do this year!”
This is when we must be mindful of body dysmorphia. When we have a distorted perception of our appearance it can lead to an addiction to cosmetic procedures. Dr. Brandow adds that it is very important for cosmetic surgeons to screen people to see if they have signs of body dysmorphia. “Ethically when someone comes in with a list of flaws they want to fix it is up to us professionals to advise them appropriately. When someone is addicted to surgeries and tries to “fix” the same body part repeatedly, that’s a red flag.
Dr. Sanam Hafeez suggests keeping an “appreciation journal” and write down 10 things you appreciate about yourself and your life. This will lessen harsh self-criticism and the need to measure up to any physical ideal.
About the doctors:
Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD is a 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 her via twitter @comprehendMind or www.comprehendthemind.com
Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery is a plastic surgeon with practices in the Philadelphia metro area. Named a “Top Doc” in Plastic Surgery by Philadelphia Magazine as well as nationally recognized for one of America’s “Best Plastic Surgeons” of this decade, Dr. Brandow is a trusted expert who has developed many innovative, minimally invasive procedures for the face, body and skin. He has been featured on local, national and international television programs including 20/20, CNN’s Headline News, Good Morning America.
Connect with Dr. Brandow via www.brandowclinic.com
If you fall off track, hop back on

If you were given $24 and managed to lose $1 would you then throw away the $23 you had left? Of Course not! So why treat your days like that?
Often times, were on a program to help us accomplish goals. It may be a weight loss program, a muscle building program, a program for a competition or a eating program to help restore our health. Whatever the case, sometimes we mess up. But when we mess up, should we give up? Absolutely not! Everyday were given 24 hours but it's up to us to use them effectively.
If you find yourself cheating or deviating from your meal plan because you just can't beat your craving, you shouldn't beat yourself up. Instead, you should take note of what events led up to your deviating from your plan, how you felt after, what you can do next time to avoid messing up and finally MOVE ON. The same way you wouldn't throw away $23 if you managed to lose $1, you should never throw away an entire day to unhealthy eating or quitting your plan because of one disruption. As we've all heard before, things happen.
So next time you find yourself eating that cookie, or eating a slice of cake, remember that were all imperfect, things happen and you must move on and forward. Get back on course finishing the day healthy, strong and on track and continue to work towards reaching your goal.
Thirteen Canadian health care organizations unite under one national framework for better patient care
Ensuring Canadian doctors have access to the world's best training model for patient care is a shared priority of 13 national and provincial health care organizations. Newly united under the CanMEDS Consortium, the organizations have pledged to embed a common set of values and competencies — the CanMEDS Framework — across the continuum of a Canadian doctor's education and career.
Represented by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) and the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada (AFMC), the consortium's mandate is simple — to improve patient care by using a consistent model to educate doctors in training and evaluate those in practice.
"Traditionally, CanMEDS has been used to train and evaluate new doctors during residency training, but the new consortium has pledged to embed CanMEDS values throughout their entire education and career, from the undergraduate years in medical school through to lifelong learning in practice," said Dr. Royal College CEO Dr. Andrew Padmos, FRCPC, FACP. "Each organization has pledged to embed CanMEDS in their respective areas of work. It's a move that represents a major step forward for the profession."
The CanMEDS Framework organizes the many competencies of a doctor under seven different roles: Medical Expert, Communicator, Collaborator, Leader, Health Advocate, Scholar and Professional. Numerous organizations in Canada and abroad have used aspects of the CanMEDS model for up to 25 years. Going forward, the consortium will enable a more systematic and coordinated adoption across the country.
"We see the new consortium as a great way to enable use of the CanMEDS Framework for family physicians and all other specialists," said CFPC Executive Director and CEO, Dr. Francine Lemire, CCFP, FCFP, CAE. "It will help to guide continuing professional development throughout physicians' careers, create more consistent professional standards and support better outcomes for our patients."
A consistent approach to education and evaluation will increase efficiency for the organizations delivering the training and the physicians receiving it. It will also help the medical regulatory authorities — who monitor the professional behaviours of residents and licensed doctors — to evaluate them along the same benchmarks.
"The CanMEDS Framework is a pivotal part of our education programs and the AFMC is delighted to be a co-chair of this transformative consortium," said Dr. Geneviève Moineau, FRCPC, President and CEO of the AFMC. "The pan-Canadian collaboration to further CanMEDS is a wonderful statement of our commitment to physician education and a manifestation of our social accountability to patient care."
CanMEDS Consortium members include:
- The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
- The College of Family Physicians of Canada
- The Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada
- The Canadian Federation of Medical Students
- The Canadian Medical Association
- The Canadian Medical Protective Association
- The Canadian Patient Safety Institute
- The Collège des médecins du Québec
- The Fédération médicale étudiante du Québec
- The Federation of Medical Regulatory Authorities of Canada
- The Fédération des médecins residents du Québec
- The Medical Council of Canada
- The Resident Doctors of Canada
The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (Royal College) is the national, not-for-profit organization that oversees the medical education of specialists in Canada by setting high standards for postgraduate medical education and continuing professional development. In collaboration with health organizations and government agencies, the Royal College also plays a role in developing sound health policy in Canada.
The College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) represents more than 35,000 members across the country. It is the professional organization responsible for establishing standards for the training and certification of family physicians. The CFPC reviews and accredits continuing professional development programs and materials that enable family physicians to meet certification and licencing requirements and lifelong learning interests. It also accredits postgraduate family medicine training in Canada's 17 medical schools. The College provides quality services, supports family medicine teaching and research, and advocates on behalf of family physicians and the specialty of family medicine.
The Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada (AFMC) represents the country's 17 faculties of medicine and is the national voice for academic medicine. Our organization was founded in 1943 and functions to support individually and collectively Canada's medical schools through promotion of medical education, research, and clinical care.
SOURCE Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
Health Coaches Pave the Way for a Brighter Future for Health Care
By Joshua Rosenthal
As policy makers continue to debate the future of healthcare in America, there is an often overlooked, yet important, part of our healthcare system. Think about the healthiest habits you have. Do you enjoy getting outside to walk on your lunch break, drink mostly water during the day, or cook healthy meals every night?
How did you develop these healthy habits?
Chances are, you developed these healthy tendencies over time, with guidance and support from friends, family, colleagues, coaches, and anyone else who encouraged you and held you accountable.
Getting and staying healthy isn’t rocket science. Most of us know we need to exercise more, eat whole foods, and manage our stress better. The challenge is in making those healthy habits stick. While we like to think we can do the right thing because the experts say we should, science tells a different story.
Ongoing research at the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of California and the Mayo Clinic have found that people are much more likely to adopt and maintain healthy habits when they work with a peer or coach as opposed to a doctor or another expert. (1) (2)
Health Coaches are perfectly poised to be that peer or coach for people looking for a partner to help them adopt and maintain healthier habits. Why? Health Coaches are trained in changing behaviors, holding people accountable and frequently have a lot in common with their clients. These similarities (like culture, language, experiences, and values) help to develop trust and a unique mentor/student bond that can bring about total life transformation and lasting change.
Health Coaches are the future of preventative health care; in fact, as one of the fastest-growing professions, there are now approximately 35,000 self-identified practitioners nationally and the Department of Labor projects a 21 percent increase for health and wellness professionals focused on preventative health - faster than all other occupations.
The bottom-line: In an age of rising health care costs and uncertainty, Health Coaches have the ability to reduce over all health care costs while employing thousands of Americans with well-paying jobs.
Medical professionals are crucial for helping those in need, but they don’t always have the time or resources to help people find and build healthy habits. There is a huge demand for a new kind of health advocate who can help fill a void in our current healthcare system.
According to David Thom, M.D., Ph.D. Research Director for the UCSF Department of Family & Community Medicine, “When patients are managed by their doctor, we often do so in four or five 15-minute visits a year, and in between those visits we have little to no contact with the patient. To think that is optimal is naïve. It’s amazing that we’ve gotten along so long without using Health Coaches, and we haven’t even realized all the benefits yet.” (3)
Within the current healthcare model, attempts to reduce lifestyle-related chronic disease and costs have proven to be financially unsustainable due to a system that rewards hospitalizations and invasive procedures. Thankfully, more employers, hospitals, and insurance companies understand that an investment in Health Coaches have real and lasting impacts on our collective wellness.
The Wall Street Journal recently reported that there is “a broader shift within the healthcare industry toward keeping people well instead of simply treating them when they’re sick.” And that, “although wellness coaching is a relatively new field, some recent research suggests that it does work.” (4)
Our nation’s health and wellness is not suffering because we don’t know what to do; it’s that we need allies and advocates in the form of Health Coaches to assist and hold us accountable along the way. The work of Health Coaches has been quietly improving the health and wellness of many for over 25 years. It is time to recognize their efforts and empower their growth; our nation’s health depends on it.
We also need the support of Congress to ensure that our community can continue to offer preventive health care options for millions of Americans. Allowing consumers the flexibility in using their Health Savings Accounts (HSA) for Health Coaches will incentivize wellness. The recent, bipartisan introduction of the Health and Wellness Coach Resolutions in the House of Representatives and the United States Senate is a signal that our policymakers support the important work of Health Coaches.(5) More importantly, it also illustrates that our policymakers from both parties clearly understand and agree with the new research and a growing movement embracing a holistic approach to wellness with food and lifestyle as the new prescription of choice and Health Coaches as the guides.
It is the mission of Health Coaches to play a crucial role in improving health and happiness, and through that process, create a ripple effect that transforms the world. It is imperative that our nation’s lawmakers continue to seek out opportunities to support the important benefits Health Coaches are providing citizens around the country and helping daily to ensure the health of the American public.
Rosenthal, MScEd. is the visionary founder and director of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN), which has trained over 100,000 students in 100 countries for over 25 years.
(1) Study: Making the Most of Health Coaches in Primary Care
(2) Study finds wellness coaching benefits last over time
(3) Health Coaches Help FPs Improve Chronic Disease Management
(4) Wall Street Journal, Trying to Break Unhealthy Habits? There’s a Coach for That
(5) U.S. House of Representatives – House Resolution 121.
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About The Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN)
The Institute for Integrative Nutrition was founded in 1992 by Joshua Rosenthal. What started as a small classroom of passionate students in a live setting is now the world’s largest nutrition school and most well renowned Health Coach Training Program. Through an innovative, one-year online course built specifically for the adult learner, Integrative Nutrition’s holistic program teaches Health Coaching and business skills, personal development philosophy, and over 100 dietary theories with lectures by the world’s leading physicians, researchers, doctors, and nutrition experts. Integrative Nutrition is more than a school; they are a movement whose program is changing the landscape of health and wellness around the world, training over 60,000 students and graduates in 124 countries. |