Sun Life Financial commitment to diabetes totals more than $17 million
Sun Life Financial Inc. (TSX: SLF) (NYSE: SLF) is proud to be teaming up with the Canadian Football League (CFL) in the fight against diabetes. This unique collaboration, now in its fourth year, encourages Canadians to take a type 2 diabetes online risk test at www.sunlifeagainstdiabetes.ca, reminding Canadians that knowing their risk level is simple yet vital.
"We are excited to join forces with the CFL to encourage football fans and Canadians to take charge of their health and understand their type 2 diabetes risk," said Paul Joliat, Assistant Vice-President, Philanthropy & Sponsorships, Sun Life Financial. "Currently, one in three Canadians is affected by diabetes or prediabetes. The good news is that 90% of those impacted by the disease have type 2 diabetes which can be delayed and/or prevented with healthy eating, exercise, and of course, identifying your risk."
This year, Sun Life and the CFL are launching a multi-media campaign to engage fans through tweets, photos and videos to raise awareness for diabetes and its related complications. Through healthy eating and exercise tips, CFL players from each of the nine teams will be helping to motivate fans to take charge of their health, learn their type 2 diabetes risk and take the necessary action to prevent and/or delay its onset.
"We are thrilled to team up with Sun Life in their efforts to raise awareness for diabetes prevention," said CFL Commissioner, Jeffrey L. Orridge. "We hope to inspire our fans to be leaders in the fight against the disease and go online to take the test."
As part of an overall diabetes awareness campaign, Sun Life is also working alongside the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA) throughout October and November to encourage Canadians to get screened and potentially prevent new cases of type 2 diabetes. Since announcing support of the cause in late 2012, Sun Life has proudly committed more than $17 million in support of diabetes awareness, prevention, care and research initiatives.
Canadians are urged to get involved. Visit www.sunlifeagainstdiabetes.ca to take the type 2 diabetes online risk test or visit www.cfl.ca/sunlife for more information and to watch the player videos.
About Sun Life Financial
Sun Life Financial is a leading international financial services organization providing a diverse range of protection and wealth products and services to individuals and corporate customers. Sun Life Financial has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of June 30, 2016, the Sun Life Financial group of companies had total assets under management of $865 billion. For more information please visit www.sunlife.com.
Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.
About the Canadian Football League
Today's CFL is more than just our great game of football. It's fans sharing their excitement for what they see on the field, and what they experience off it. Stay up to date on all the non-stop action at CFL.ca. And join all of Canada as we celebrate the 104th Grey Cup, presented by Shaw, next November in Toronto.
Health & Fitness Alert: Fuelshaker Pro Is the Next Step in Supplement Innovation
Fuelshaker introduced the new Fuelshaker Pro, a hybrid water bottle that features an innovative Fueler powder cartridge and push-button mixing system for sports supplements. Fuelshaker can be used as a water bottle to stay hydrated during the day, and then with a click of a button transforms to a shaker bottle to satisfy your on-the-go sports supplement needs whenever and wherever you want.
The specially designed fueler keeps your supplements dry and its turbine-shaped agitator mixes even the toughest of powders to ensure the best quality drink every time. With three simple steps, the Fuelshaker Pro can help fuel a healthier lifestyle. Fill the fueler with a workout supplement powder (like a protein drink mix or post-workout recovery), place the agitator on top to seal it shut and screw into the bottom of the cup … and you’re ready to go. Its 500ml/20 ounce capacity assures you have enough water for your workout, and the 50g/100cc capacity of the container means you have your ideal protein or sports supplement intake.
When it’s time for your supplement injection, simply flip the bottle upside-down, press the ejector button and give it a shake, your water is now transformed into a supplement enhanced beverage. If you need more, additional fuelers can be purchased separately. The used fuelers can be easily swapped out with a fresh, dry supplement store to ensure that you stay fueled all day.
The lids of the Fuelshaker Pro are designed with leak-proof technology. Once you screw the lid on the shaker cup, you don’t have to worry about the liquid inside leaking. Put it in your gym bag and use it whenever you’re ready … with no fear of liquid leaking on your workout gear or clean clothes.
The Fuelshaker Pro is constructed of durable, high-quality Tritan (BPA-free) plastic. It is top-rack dishwasher safe, meaning you don’t have to worry about washing by hand. With the open bottom end, you will have a clean cup after every run through the dishwasher.
The Fuelshaker Pro is available in two colors, blue or black, and retails online for $26.99. Visit www.fuelshaker.com for more info.
HIGH-CALIBRE CUISINE TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT EAT TO THE BEAT
TORONTO’S TOP CULINARY FUNDRAISER IN SUPPORT OF CBCF
Tuesday, November 1, 2016 | 7 pm – 10 pm | Roy Thomson Hall
Toronto, Ontario – October 17, 2016 – A mecca for urban foodies to experience the best Ontario’s culinary scene has to offer, the 21st annual Eat to the Beat presented by KitchenAid®is a fundraiser for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF) and features 60 female chefs supporting people living with breast cancer on Tuesday, November 1 from 7 pm – 10 pm at Roy Thomson Hall (60 Simcoe Street). General Admission Tickets are $189 (a tax receipt will be issued for the maximum allowable amount). For tickets or to see the line-up of chefs and beverage participants, please visit www.eattothebeat.ca or call 1 (800) 387-9816.
Eat to the Beat guests have the opportunity to enjoy specially prepared savoury and sweet dishes at 60 stations, along with wine, beer and a selection of non alcoholic beverages set up around Roy Thomson Hall’s outer lobby.
“We are so grateful to our participating chefs, sponsors and supporters who have helped to make Eat to the Beat Toronto’s must-attend culinary event and fundraiser over the years,” says Cathy Park, co-chair, Eat to the Beat.
In addition to food and drink, colourful and whimsical one-of-a-kind corsets, inspired by food and created and modelled by breast cancer survivors, have become an integral part of Eat to the Beat.
“A fun, colourful and cheeky tradition at Eat to the Beat, breast cancer survivors will be adding class with a bit of sass, modeling original food-inspired corsets that they have created,” adds Joanne Brophy, co-chair, Eat to the Beat.
Started 21 years ago by sisters Lisa and Abby Slater, Eat to the Beat has raised more than $3.9 million since its inception. Funds raised at Eat to the Beat will support the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation – dedicated to funding relevant and innovative research, supporting and advocating for the breast cancer community, and providing credible, unbiased information to help empower those affected by breast cancer or at increased genetic risk of developing the disease.
“Just like Lisa and Abby, we’re inspired by the strength of breast cancer survivors and those who are affected by this disease,” says Karen Malone, VP, Research & Programs, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, “Thanks to fundraising events like Eat to the Beat, we can continue to offer emotional support and information to anyone affected by breast cancer.”
Eat to the Beat at a Glance:
DATE: Tuesday, November 1, 2016
TIME: 7 pm – 10 pm
VENUE: Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe Street, Toronto (St. Andrew subway station)
COST: Tickets include savoury and sweet dishes at 60 stations along with wine, beer and a selection of non-alcoholic beverages.
General Admission Ticket: $189 (a tax receipt will be issued for the maximum allowable amount)
Participating chefs and select menu items that will be featured at this year’s Eat to the Beat include:
Sandra Abballe, Succulent Chocolates and Sweets
Vanessa Baudanza and Isabelle Loiacono, The Rolling Pin
Wanda Beaver, Wanda's Pie in the Sky- Grand Marnier Nanaimo bars
Renee Bellefeuille, Art Gallery of Ontario- cured whitefish, rye toast, tarragon crème fraiche and pickled caperberry goat cheese and artichoke puff
Cathy Beneway, CreativeCatering by Cathy
Emma Beqaj, Emma's Eatery Catering- lobster grilled cheese
Arvinda Chauhan and Preena Chauhan, Arvinda’s -spicy curry leaf infused chick pea dip with tomato purée served on cucumber and zucchini rounds and garnished with savoury noodles and curry leaf
Tiiu Christie and Tysa Christie, Marigolds and Onions
Felicia Derose Colette Grand Café
Donna Dooher and Michael Leary, Mildred's Temple Kitchen
Kyla Eaglesham, Madeleines
Rossy Earle, SupiCucu
Michelle Edgar, TheSweet Escape Patisserie
Alison Ferland, Byblos
Mali Fernandez, Xola Mexican Food
Alexandra Feswick, The Drake Hotel- Adobo pulled pork steam buns with daikon pickle
Trish Gill, The Emmet Ray
Bonnie Gordon, Bonnie Gordon College of Confectionary Arts- Macaron in a variety of flavours, homemade chocolates, and langues de chat
Tamara Green, The Living Kitchen
Kimberly Humby, East & Main Bistro
Anna Janes, Cocomira Confections
Vanessa Le Page, Cake Lady - Edible Art - The Shortbread
Tara Lee, Bar Hop- mini pork and ricotta meatballs with a tomato cream sauce
Jacqueline Lo, Ruelo Patisserie
Erin Marcus, Ace Bakery
Lynn Mendelson, Lynn Mendelson Catering- million $ bars
Joan Monfaredi, Park Hyatt Hotel- tuna tartar wonton tacos with pea shoots, chili rice vinegar and scallion
Jennifer Mooers and Chris Brown, Citizen Catering
Lauren Mozer, Elle Cuisine
Catherine O’Donnell, WillowCakes and Pastries
Christine Ostiguy, YorkshirePudding Catering
Angela Panigas, The Sultan's Tent & Café Moroc
Chef Véronique Perez, Crêpes à GoGo Spadinaand Limonana
Jennifer Perusini, BerBer Social
Andrea Poirier, Inn on the Twenty
Karen Rachlin, Bite Catering
Regular Nuit, Pai Northern Thai Kitchen, Sabai Sabai Kitchen and Bar and Sukhothai Restaurant - "Mee kra ti" – stir fried rice vermicelli with coconut milk and tofu
Caroline Reid, Scaramouche- house-cured duck pastrami with celery root salad, hazelnut purée and vincotto
Emily Richards, Professional Home Economist- balsamic roasted pear wedges wrapped in prosciutto with gorgonzola dip
Dufflet Rosenberg, Dufflet Pastries- cookie bar
Barbara Rotberg, Lollicakes
Gauravi Shah, Tilde- chorizo meatballs with lime aioli and grilled pineapple salsa, bean vegballs with roasted tomato salsa and cilantro gremolata
Trista Sheen, Bar Begonia
Alida Solomon, Tutti Matti
Lili Sullivan, Waupoos Winery- cider braised lamb in a filo cup with spiked apple
Meghan Van Horne, Public Schoolhouse @ Jackson’s Falls- polenta crisp with smoked trout, chèvre, wild spinach and walnut pesto
Karen Viva-Haynes, VivaTastings
Elaine Wong, The Omni King Edward Hotel
Winlai Wong, The Badminton and Racquet Club of Toronto
Jeanne Da Silva, George Brown College Chef School- edamame falafels with a cultured vegetable slaw on whole wheat tortilla cups and vegetarian BLT with coconut bacon, roasted tomatoes and a spicy avocado purée on whole grain baguette
Vanessa Yeung, Aphrodite Cooks
Eden Hertzog, New Moon Kitchen
Leyla Kizilirmak, Art Square Gallery and Café- organic and fair trade dark chocolate boobs
Carmen Jeffrey, President’s Choice Cooking School
About the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation:
The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF) is a national community-driven charity. As the largest charitable funder of breast cancer research in Canada, CBCF’s vision is to create a future without breast cancer. Since its inception in 1986, the Foundation has invested over $360 million in breast cancer research, funding more than 1,400 scientific and community grants. CBCF’s investments in vital research, education, health promotion, support and information programs have led to progress in breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care. For more information, visit cbcf.org.
Charitable Registration No. 12799 3608 RR0001
Robin Williams’ Widow and Ben Utecht Headline American Brain Foundation’s Twin Cities’ Fundraiser
Standing Strong Tackles Brain Disease at Minnesota Vikings’ New Home
Recently appointed to the American Brain Foundation’s Board of Directors, Susan Schneider Williams, the widow of actor and comedian Robin Williams, will be the keynote speaker at the foundation’s third annual fundraising event entitled Standing Strong: An Evening Benefiting Brain Disease Research.
This year’s event will be held on Wednesday, October 26 from 6:30 pm -10:00 pm in the Delta 360 Club at the new U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.
In an intimate concert setting, Super Bowl XLI winning-tight end Ben Utecht will perform his event namesake anthem Standing Strong, along with other songs focused on his fight with traumatic brain injury.
In addition to her keynote address at the fundraiser, Susan Schneider Williams shares her and Robin’s powerful and personal struggle with Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia in an article published in the September 26, 2016 edition of Neurology®,the official medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. Schneider Williams also speaks candidly about her story in an interview on the September 27, 2016 Neurology podcast.
“It is my belief that when healing comes out of Robin's experience, he will not have battled and died in vain,” said Schneider Williams. “By raising awareness with events like Standing Strong, I trust that a cascade of cures and discovery is imminent.”
The evening includes an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of generally restricted areas of U.S. Bank Stadium.
“We are very excited to have Susan take such a lead role in our quest to find a cure for debilitating brain diseases that affect 1.4 million Americans and their families,” said Kevin Goodno, JD, Chair of the American Brain Foundation’s Board of Directors.
The American Brain Foundation is a national charity whose mission is to bring researchers and donors together to defeat brain disease.
Launching Soon Vlogs - Workouts etc on my Youtube
Im super excited to start my youtube channel and do it the right way! Ive been inspired lately by a lot of bloggers and v-loggers and I've decided to up my youtube game. I hope that I inspire more people and that you will enjoy getting to know me a little bit better!
In its annual review of Ontario's health system, Health Quality Ontario reveals a new perspective on quality care for all
Alicia Bell - Fitness Trainer with exercise band.
Health Quality Ontario is offering those who live in the province the broadest portrayal of quality health care, to date.
In this 10th publication, the yearly report offers those who work within the health system and those who use it the most comprehensive overview of two key matters: Measuring Up 2016 looks at both how the health system is performing, and also looks at the health of those living in Ontario.
"To broaden the lens on health care quality, Health Quality Ontario worked with experts and patients across the system to incorporate new areas to monitor and measure," says President and CEO, Dr. Joshua Tepper. "The significance of this latest report lies in this newfound perspective. Areas in need of attention emerge clearly, allowing the system to better focus its efforts."
A new chapter on palliative care, as an example, reveals one such area in need as the population ages: Nearly two-thirds of those who received palliative care died in hospital despite the fact most would prefer to die at home. This is indicative of a larger issue involving available and appropriate care at home or elsewhere in the community.
Applying a broader health equity lens to many areas throughout the report – another new addition – has, too, allowed for a fuller picture of quality care in the province. Health equity can be understood as all people being able to reach their full health potential – meaning some will need more help than others. It's not the equal dividing of resources so that everyone gets the same; rather, it's an approach whereby factors like income, race, language, geographic location, and disability don't impede health.
This report, however, reveals gaps in equitable care, and therefore, gaps in a key aspect of health care quality: People who live in the north west region of the province do not have the same access to care than those living in the GTA; people who've been hospitalized for a mental illness or addiction continue to struggle disproportionately with transitioning from one part of the system to another; people who live in poor neighbourhoods are much less likely to have prescription medication insurance - the same is true for people with low levels of education and those who've recently immigrated.
"With these areas under the spotlight, there is reason to be hopeful," adds Dr. Tepper. "Health Quality Ontario finds an unmistakable trend as it tracks progress. This annual review finds a relationship between health quality and concerted efforts, often including a combination of policy changes and public health interventions."
A notable example can be found in population health: Smoking rates have decreased significantly in recent years. This is due in part to combined efforts involving changes in policy, changes in regulations, and public health interventions. Other examples include cancer care, cardiac health, and emergency department care.
While certain areas are showing results because of concerted efforts, those in need of similar attention are now starting to be enabled by the Ministry and subsequently implemented by the health system.
Quick facts:
From Measuring Up 2016: Key areas in need of attention:
Smooth out the transitions: Ontario can do better as patients transition from one place of care to another.
a. Less than one-third (30.2%) of patients hospitalized for a mental illness or addiction saw a doctor within seven days after discharge in 2014/15. This rate has not changed in the past five years.
b. Nearly two-thirds (62.7%) of patients who received palliative care had an unplanned emergency department visit in their last month of life. Although some unplanned visits may be unavoidable and appropriate, this can be a sign that people are not receiving enough supports at home or elsewhere in the community.
Improve access to care: People in Ontario still lack timely access to their regular primary care provider.
a. Ontario continues to lag behind, in terms of patients getting timely access to primary care, when compared to other developed countries. In 2015, less than half (43.6%) of people aged 16 or older were able to get appointments with their primary care provider (or another primary care provider in their office) the same day or next day when they were sick or had a health concern. This remains unchanged over two years and is the worst rate compared with people in 10 other Commonwealth countries.1
b. In 2014/15, 85% of the adult complex home care patients (aged 19 and older) who received personal support service received it within the five-day target, however there was substantial variation between regions. The aim is that all these patients receive the service within target.
Reduce inequities: While Ontario's overall numbers look good in many areas, we continue to see unacceptable variation by geography and population groups.
a. Less than one-quarter (23.8%) of adults in the north west region of the province (covering the district of Thunder Bay over to the Manitoba border) were able to see their primary care provider on the same day or next day when they were sick, compared with more than half (53.0%) of adults in the central west region (covering the Greater Toronto Area).
b. Nearly nine out of 10 (85.7%) people aged 12 to 64 living in the richest neighbourhoods had prescription medication insurance, compared with fewer than six out of 10 (56.0%) people living in the poorest neighbourhoods. The ability to afford medication is an important aspect of care, especially among people with multiple chronic conditions.
About Measuring Up:
Measuring Up centres on a set of performance measures called the Common Quality Agenda, as a barometer for two things: The performance of Ontario's health care system, and the health of those who live in Ontario.
Based on these performance measures, work is underway in many parts of the health system to improve care and outcomes, in addition to how to better measure them. For example, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care's Patients First action plan is initiating changes to the system to address the key areas of primary care and home care.
Health Quality Ontario (HQO) is the provincial advisor on the quality of health care. HQO reports to the public on the quality of the health care system, evaluates the effectiveness of new health care technologies and services, and supports quality improvement throughout the system. Visit www.hqontario.ca for more information.
1 Health Quality Ontario. Measuring Up 2015: A yearly report on how Ontario's health system is performing. Toronto: Queen's Printer for Ontario; 2015.
Image with caption: "2016 marks the 10-year anniversary of Health Quality Ontario’s yearly report on the performance of Ontario’s health system and offers the broadest portrayal of health care quality to date. (CNW Group/Health Quality Ontario)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20161013_C4697_PHOTO_EN_794561.jpg
SOURCE Health Quality Ontario
Squat Variations
Did you know that squatting is a fundamental human movement pattern that involves nearly every muscle in the body? Squatting improves fitness, performance, and mobility for daily-life tasks. But do you always do the same type of squat? You shouldn’t and here’s why:
Have you ever noticed that when you do an exercise you haven’t performed in a few weeks, you experience a much more intense delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) for two or three days afterwards? Well that is because your muscles are moving in a slightly different plane of motion than what they are used to and they’ve become unaccustomed to this newly reintroduced movement. Don’t get stuck doing the same exercises each and every week! Change it up so that you can wake up muscles that may not be getting used if you are continually doing the same exercises week after week.
When you add variations into your workouts you can add strength faster and see more development and changes to your physique. Try new exercise movements, add extra weight or perform more sets and reps each workout. It’s all about the variation. Variations also help keeps you mentally stimulated and non-stagnant in your workout regime. This keeps the workouts fun and exciting as well as challenging. When you add variation exercises to your program you will hit the muscles from different angles, helping to stimulate more muscle fibers and create a nice, fully rounded muscle that really pops. Add variation – you have nothing to lose and everything to gain!
Try these examples of variations for squats that can be built into your current training program. Remember to engage the mind-muscle connection and focus on the contraction, negative and stretch phase of the lift. Don’t rush through the reps, keep tension on the muscle through the entire range of motion to get the full benefit of each exercise.
Front Squat
Place the barbell at the upper chest height in the rack. Step forward and position bar in front of shoulders. Cross your arms and place hands on top of barbell with upper arms parallel to floor. Then move the bar from rack. Squat down by pushing your hips backwards while allowing knees to bend forward, keep your back straight and your knees aligned with your toes. Squat down until thighs are just past parallel. Return to the starting position and repeat.
Bulgarian Split Squat
This can be done with a barbell across your back or dumbbells in both hands. Stand with dumbbells in your hands or bar across your back. Extend leg back and place top of foot on bench. Lower yourself down by flexing both the knee and hip of front leg until knee of rear leg is almost in contact with floor. Return to your starting position and repeat. Then switch legs.
Hack Squat w/ Barbell
Position barbell just behind your legs. With feet flat on floor shoulder width apart, squat down and grasp barbell from behind with overhand grip. Lift bar by extending hips and knees to full extension to stand up tall. Squat down by bending hips back while allowing knees to bend forward, keeping back straight and knees pointed same direction as feet. Squat down as far as you can possible while keeping your head and chest up. Repeat.
Heels Elevated Hack Squat
Place some plates or a step behind you. Position barbell just behind your legs. With toes on the floor and your heels on top of the step making sure that your feet are shoulder width apart, squat down and grasp barbell from behind with overhand grip. Lift bar by extending hips and knees to full extension to stand up tall. Squat down by bending hips back while allowing knees to bend forward, keeping back straight and knees pointed same direction as feet. Squat down as far as you can possible while keeping your head and chest up. Repeat.
Goblet Squat
Stand holding a dumbbell or kettlebell close to your chest. Then squat down between your legs until your hamstrings are on your calves. Keep your chest and head up. At the bottom position, pause and make sure that your elbows are on the inside of your knees and legs. Return to the starting position, and repeat.
Sumo Squat
With bar upper chest height, position bar on the back of your shoulders and grasp bar to sides. Place feet wider than shoulder width apart and make sure to point your toes outward 45° to 30°. Begin by squatting down by bending hips back while allowing knees to bend forward. Keep your back straight and your knees aligned with the direction that your toes are facing.. Descend until thighs are minimally just past parallel to floor. Return to the beginning position and repeat
Curtsey Squat
Stand with your feet hip width apart and hands on hips, weights in your hands or barbell across your back. Move your right foot behind your left leg, as far past your left foot as is comfortable. Using a "curtsy" motion, squat down. Keep your weight in the front leg, head up and chest up. Return to the beginning position of standing and repeat.
Box Squat
From rack with barbell at upper chest height, position bar on back of shoulders. Grasp barbell to sides. Dismount bar from rack and back up until contact is made with box immediately behind. Stand with either a regular squat position with feet shoulder width or a wide stance with feet flared out slightly. Then sit back onto box by bending hips back while bending knees, keeping your knees in light with your toes and your head and chest up. Using a controlled movement then lower your glutes onto box. Once contact is made stand back up returning to the starting position and repeat.
Much of how you use the above squat variations comes down to what you are currently doing in the gym. While I am not suggesting to drop your current routine and start this one, there is value in adding some variation to your training sessions so that you can stimulate the muscle in a different way and keep it responding without hitting plateaus.
At the end of the day, it is important to realize that no matter where you are in your training experience, there is value in the occasional variation adjustment. Whether it is to bring up weak points or to keep your body healthy and in balance, varying stance and bar placement, using dumbbells instead of a barbell can add that missing element and help with your progress.
Happy Training!
Trust Your Gut…6 Stomach Issues Not to Ignore
We’ve all eaten or have drunk something that didn’t agree with us. We’ve all caught a stomach bug that was settled with rest, and over-the-counter aid and some chicken broth. While many times we can go at it alone and solve a stomachache ourselves, there are certainly times where it’s necessary to see a doctor. Dr. Gina Sam Gastroenterologist with Mount Sinai in New York City and Associate Professor provides insights on symptoms indicative to common conditions and advises when it’s time to see the doctor.
Indigestion
Common symptoms include feeling full fast during a mean, a slicing pain, burning or tightness between your breastbone and navel or bloating. The tricky thing with indigestion is that it can be triggered by something else that is worse. Persistent indigestion may be a side effect of a medication, caused by smoking, thyroid disease, ulcers, infection, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). “If you rarely have indigestion and feel funny or discomfort after a spicy meal that may go away on it’s own. However, if indigestion is a daily occurrence for more than 2 weeks and is coupled with trouble swallowing, fatigue or weakness then absolutely see your doctor to be sure it isn’t due to something more serious,” advises Dr. Sam.
Lactose Intolerance
When the small intestine fails to product enough lactase, an enzyme that digests milk sugar (lactose) food reaches the colon before it has been processed and absorbed. Undigested lactose interacts with normal bacteria in the colon leading to diarrhea, nausea, bloating, cramping, gas and sometimes even vomiting. These symptoms usually begin 30 minutes to two hours after consuming foods or drinks with lactose. Dr. Sam explains that the challenge with lactose intolerance is that it often leads to calcium deficiency so it’s always a good idea to see your doctor to create a plan that explores which foods trigger discomfort and which are still okay.
Kidney Stones
According to Dr. Sam kidney stones don’t cause symptoms until they pass on from the kidney towards your bladder. That’s when there may be cloudy or foul smelling urine that can appear brown, or pink. There may also be a frequent need to urinate but the ability to urinate small amounts. Nausea and vomiting along with fever and chills are also symptoms. Usually when lower back pain is so severe sleeping and even sitting is difficult the patient seeks medical attention. “When you have kidney stones you just know something isn’t right, yet sometimes it takes people longer to see several symptoms before they seek medical attention,” explains Dr. Sam.
Gallstones
Gallstones are stones that form in the gallbladder, a tiny sac that hangs out under the liver, emptying bile as needed to digest fats. These stones cause swelling and can block the duct into the intestine, resulting in pain. Gallstone pain tends to strike the right side of the upper abdomen, particularly after fatty meals triggering the gallbladder to contract. “If the gallbladder is inflamed, any contraction of that nature will be amplified and typically will cause pain to the patient,” says Dr. Sam.
Appendicitis
While it’s more common to people ages 10-20 it can strike at any age. Typical symptom is pain specifically in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen however, half of those with appendicitis have pain elsewhere. Also not everyone has his or her appendix in the same place making the pain site vary. “This is why it is important to monitor symptoms closely. Many of the symptoms are similar to ones associated with other conditions such as kidney stone, Crohn’s disease even ectopic pregnancy,” offers Dr. Sam. She further explains that the patient can expect several tests (blood, urine, MRI, CT or ultrasound) to confirm diagnoses. Some doctors don’t want to risk waiting for test results and based on how the patient describes his or her own symptoms may opt to surgically remove the appendix.
Side Effects From Medications
“No drug is without side effects and sometimes that includes abdominal pain.
Oral bisphosphonates, a popular class of drugs that helps preserve bone density and prevent osteoporosis, can cause swelling—and therefore pain—in the lower esophagus,” says Dr. Sam. Pain medications known as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen and aspirin can also cause swelling in the stomach lining and may even lead to ulcers.
Rule of thumb is to trust the gut. When something feels more serious, it usually is. Some stomach issues can either be symptoms of other more serious issues or if left unaddressed, can escalate into something worse. “Whenever you’re feeling prolonged discomfort and sharp pain it’s worth seeing your doctor,” advises Dr. Sam.
About the doctor:
Dr. Gina Sam, MD/MPH is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York. She is the Director of the Mount Sinai Gastrointestinal Motility Center specializing in achalasia, gastroesophageal reflux, functional disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, gastroparesis, and anorectal disorders including pelvic floor dyssnergia and fecal incontinence.
A MINDFUL SOCIETY BRINGS TOP EXPERTS TOGETHER TO EXPLORE BEST PRACTICES IN GLOBAL LEADERSHIP
With mental health and addiction facing one in five Canadians (as reported by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)), more and more leaders are understanding the importance of integrating mindful practice in the public and private sectors.
On Wednesday, November 2, 2016, an intimate group of professionals at all levels will gather with field experts for "A Mindful Leader", a forum dedicated to exploring the transformative impact that mindfulness can have on society at this critical time. Geared toward bringing together individuals who are interested in connecting with a community and gaining knowledge to be more effective, clear and compassionate leaders, this highly anticipated event will take place at Ottawa's historic Canadian Museum of Nature.
Hosted by A Mindful Society (AMS), "the forum will educate participants on the mindful methods being used by some of Canada's most influential politicians along with international leaders in the business, education and health sectors. Participants will walk away with the language to share this new model of integrity with colleagues," comments Michael Apollo, Founder, A Mindful Society. "Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with speakers via a series of fireside chats and also a dinner. Our goal is to connect a community of peers and experts in the field."
The inspiring line-up of presenters consists of respected thought leaders and best-selling authors who have successfully integrated mindfulness into their fields, including representatives from Google's Search Inside Yourself Leadership Institute, School of Public Service, WestJet the University of Toronto and more.
Speakers at "A Mindful Leader" Forum are the following:
Peter Weng, Former Director at Google and Dell, VP Sales & Marketing Search Inside Yourself Leadership Institute.
Maria Gonzalez, Award-winning, best-selling author of "Mindful Leadership" and President of Argonauta Consulting Inc.
Michele Milan, CEO of Rotman Management Executive Programs, specializing in best practices for being an effective leader.
Christina Tector, Senior Learning and Development Specialist for Canada School of Public Service.
Jamie Bristow, Director of Mindfulness Initiative UK at Oxford University and committee member of Mindful Nation UK Report.
Chris Ruane, Former Member of UK Parliament and committee member of Mindful Nation UK Report.
Pam August, Organizational Development Specialist at WestJet
Michael Apollo, Founder of A Mindful Society conference and Program Lead at the Applied Mindfulness Meditation program at the University of Toronto.
Elli Weisbaum, Former international program coordinator for Wake Up Schools an initiative by Nobel Peace Prize Nominee Thich Nhat Hanh, researcher at the Institute of Medical Science studying the integration of mindfulness into healthcare.
"A Mindful Leader's objective is to bring Canada into the growing global conversation of how mindfulness can change the way people think about leadership across the public, private and nonprofit sectors," adds Apollo. "The forum will be an intimate setting of fireside chats and roundtable discussions focused on ground-breaking research and emerging leadership strategies."
To view the full list of speakers, the forum agenda and to register, please visit www.amindfulleader.com. Tickets are limited and first come, first served.
For Individuals or organizations interested in supporting or advocating the ground-breaking fields of mindful leadership as partners or sponsors, please contact info@amindfulsociety.org
About AMS
A Mindful Society (AMS) seeks to understand current challenges within key sectors of society that are influenced by the human mind and bring to light the benefits of integrating mindfulness applications within these areas. Our conferences aim to bring together the knowledge of leaders within the government, health care education and management sectors with a focus on the methods and findings of contemporary research.
Three Ways To Bring Wheat Back Into Your Diet
by Dr. John Douillard
The gluten-free industry is predicted to reach 15.6 billion in sales in 2016, with 28% of people set on avoiding wheat and gluten products. Many are choosing to avoid wheat because they don’t feel good after eating it, want to lose weight or have been convinced it is unhealthy.
Before you give wheat a life sentence as a bad food, here are some whole wheat facts and tips that may allow you to successfully break bread once again.
Eat Wheat Tip #1: Be Choosy
Many gluten-free experts suggest that ancient wheat had much less gluten than our modern wheat and, therefore, conclude that ancient wheat is better than our modern wheat. But wait…are we sure it is the gluten that is the cause of the “gluten sensitivity”?
One study compared the ancient wheat, Kamut, with some modern wheat strains. They found that the ancient Kamut actually had twice the amount of hard-to-digest A-gliadin glutens than the modern wheat. The Kamut, with twice the gluten, was shown to reduce inflammation two-fold, while also lowering blood sugar and cholesterol significantly more than the modern wheat.
In another report by the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, the average American ate 86 pounds more wheat flour in the year 1900 than they did in 2008, suggesting that the increase in celiac disease and gluten sensitivity may not be from the gluten after all.
The Takeaway: Ancient strains of wheat that include Einkorn, Emmer and Kamut have been found to have more antioxidant activity than modern wheat and are good grains to start with as they are also typically prepared without industrial processing. But, not all modern wheats are created equally. Spelt is a much easier grain to digest because it has 40% less of the hard-to-digest anti-nutrients called phytic acids than common whole wheat. Anti-nutrients protect grains, beans, seeds and nuts from invading bacteria. Sprouting whole wheat is another technique to break down the anti-nutrients, making the bread easier to digest. Rye has been shown to have a significantly lower glycemic index and is better if you are concerned about your blood sugar.
Eat Wheat Tip #2: Eat Fermented Wheat
There is no doubt that the gluten in wheat is a hard-to-digest protein, but history suggests that we are well-adapted to digest it. For starters, new research from the University of Utah have found evidence that early humans have been eating C-3 grasses such as wheat and barley for at least 3.4 million years – not 10,000 years as you may have heard.
As for adapting to wheat, we have. Studies have found microbes that specifically produce enzymes for breaking down gluten in the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines. There are also enzymes produced in the small intestine that can break down the hard-to-digest A-gliadin glutens.
The Takeaway: Early bakers discovered that fermenting the wheat flour with beneficial bacteria made the wheat much easier to digest. In a handful of studies, sourdough bread was found to reduce the gluten content of the bread, even rendering it “gluten-free.” In fact, when they served this bread to patients with celiac symptoms, they did not measure any increased intestinal inflammation. This is not suggesting that folks with celiac can safely eat or should try eating sourdough bread, but for those with gluten sensitivity, sourdough bread is a good place to start. You can find healthy versions of these at an artisan bakery or a natural food store.
Eat Wheat Tip #3: If You’ve Never Heard of It, Don’t Eat It.
Did you ever wonder why the bread you buy in the supermarket stays “fresh” and squishy for weeks without getting hard or moldy, while old-fashioned baked or artisan breads get hard in just a couple of days?
Modern breads are loaded with dough conditioners and preservatives that keep the bread squishy and “fresh” or resistant to mold for weeks. In addition to the many chemicals and added sugars put in most breads, the most dangerous of all is the added oils. Most breads have added oils in them, which are key for their so-called freshness, squishiness and shelf life.
The oils used are typically super refined, bleached, boiled and deodorized, which leaves them nothing like the oil when it was originally pressed from the seed or vegetable. Freshly cold pressure oils will go rancid more quickly when exposed to light, and baking even the best oils renders them indigestible for both humans and the bacteria that naturally make bread get hard and moldy.
Remember, the human body is made up of cells that are 90% bacteria and only 10% human – and if the 90% is doing the heavy lifting for most our body’s immunity, mood and functions, don’t you think we should be eating foods that both humans and the bacteria can digest?
The additives and baked oils are what makes foods processed. In one study, when folks ate a diet of processed foods, they had a 141% increased risk of belly fat, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar. When they ate a non-processed diet including whole wheat, they saw a 38% reduction in risk of the same concerns.
The Takeaway: The ingredients in a healthy and digestible loaf of bread should look something like this: organic whole wheat, water, salt, starter – with no cooked oils. As for the rest of the potentially toxic ingredients unnecessarily found in most breads, avoid sugars or sweeteners, even natural ones like cane sugar, honey or molasses. Also, avoid breads with ingredients you do not recognize. If you don’t know what it is, than it’s probably best to not eat it.
Dr. John Douillard, DC, CAP, is a globally recognized leader in the fields of natural health, Ayurveda and sports medicine. Over the past 30 years, he’s helped over 100,000 patients repair their digestive system and eat wheat and dairy again. He is the creator of LifeSpa.com and author of the book, Eat Wheat: A Scientific and Clinically-Proven Approach to Safely Bringing Wheat and Dairy Back into Your Diet, releasing nationwide January 2017. For more information, please visit, www.eatwheatbook.com and connect with Dr. Douillard on Twitter, @johndouillard.
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