September 17 to 25, 2016, marks this year’s National Organic Week, the largest annual celebration of organic food, farming and products across the country. With hundreds of events and thousands of retail promotions taking place across Canada, Organic Week showcases the benefits of organic agriculture and its positive impact on the environment, animal welfare, as well as our well-being. Supported by regional partners and coordinated by the Canada Organic Trade Association (COTA), Canadian Organic Growers (COG), and the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA), Organic Week shines a spotlight on why Canadians should choose to think before they eat.

“With the number of organic products on the market continuously growing, it’s easier than ever to go organic,” says Rochelle Eisen, president of COG. Many of Canada’s top organic farms, wineries, retailers and restaurants take part in Organic Week, offering Canadians the perfect opportunity to experience firsthand the bounty of Canada’s organic harvest. “Whether it’s hosting a potluck picnic for friends or sampling organic wine and beer, we encourage Canadians to help spread the word about how choosing organic means supporting sustainability and promoting animal welfare.”

Some new and exciting trends have been revealed thanks to the Canada Organic Trade Association’s second national consumer survey to be released later this year. The study aimed to understand consumers’ awareness of the benefits of organic agriculture, uncover consumers’ organic purchasing habits and gauge the level of trust Canadians have in organic and non-organic claims.

Key findings from the study show:

The face of organic is changing as more “millennials” are shifting towards organic in Canada:

· One in five (twenty-one per cent) shoppers from 18 to 34 years say they are buying more organic, while shoppers in older age groups are holding steady.
· Eighty-six percent of Canadians expect to increase or maintain their organic spending in the near future.
· The number of consumers that are regularly buying organic in the country is around 20 million (fifty-six per cent of Canadians).

“Governments are following in the footsteps of consumer trends,” says Tia Loftsgard, Executive Director of COTA. “Federal investment in the organic sector and provincial initiatives supporting farmers to transition to organic show how consumer-led efforts can truly make a difference. We’re proud to be involved in the continued growth of the organic movement alongside its passionate ambassadors this September.”

More and more Canadians are looking to reduce their exposure to synthetic chemicals and genetically engineered (GMO) ingredients with the aim of taking better care of themselves, their families, and the environment. Coast-to-coast Organic Week events range in scale, from smaller organic farm tours to community-wide organic festivals. Hundreds of health food stores, farmer’s markets and grocery chains will be showcasing organic products and educating consumers.

“With events taking place in communities all over the country, there are so many ways Canadians can support and get involved in the Organic Week celebration,” says CHFA president, Helen Long. “Last year, we saw everything from pickling workshops and farm tours to recipe contests and organic food and drink tastings. These happenings represent the creative ways Canadians are choosing to go organic and how they are making a conscious decision to protect their bodies and the environment, all while supporting local farmers.”

To find out more about Organic Week events or promotions being offered near you, please visit organicweek.ca.

Organic Week was made possible this year by champion sponsors UNFI Canada, Sobeys Inc., Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods, Nature’s Path Foods, Clif Bar & Company, alive Publishing Group Inc, PC Organics, Mike and Mike’s Organics, Cal-Organics Farms, Yorkshire Valley Farm, Green Organic Vegetables, Field Farm Marketing Ltd., DOM International Limited, Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, Earthbound Farm Organic, Wholesome!, True Organic Juice, DeeBee’s SpecialTea Foods, Mumm’s Sprouting Seeds, Ecocert Canada, Organic Meadow, Pacific Organic Seafood Association, Organic Garage, The Homemade Organics Company, Fromagerie L’Ancêtre, Pro-Cert Organic, Patience Fruit & Co, The Big Carrot, Hippie Foods, Ethical Bean Coffee, Quality Assurance International, and Fairtrade Canada.

Banish Boring in the Morning with Breakfast Recipes to Celebrate Organic Week

September 17 to 25, 2016, marks this year’s National Organic Week, the largest annual celebration of organic food, farming and products across the country. With hundreds of events and thousands of retail promotions taking place across Canada, Organic Week showcases the benefits of organic agriculture and its positive impact on the environment, animal welfare, as well as our well-being. Supported by regional partners and coordinated by the Canada Organic Trade Association(COTA), Canadian Organic Growers (COG), and the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA), Organic Week shines a spotlight on why Canadians should choose to think before they eat.

“With the number of organic products on the market continuously growing, it’s easier than ever to go organic,” says Rochelle Eisen, president of COG. Many of Canada’s top organic farms, wineries, retailers and restaurants take part in Organic Week, offering Canadians the perfect opportunity to experience firsthand the bounty of Canada’s organic harvest. “Whether it’s hosting a potluck picnic for friends or sampling organic wine and beer, we encourage Canadians to help spread the word about how choosing organic means supporting sustainability and promoting animal welfare.”

Some new and exciting trends have been revealed thanks to the Canada Organic Trade Association’s second national consumer survey to be released later this year. The study aimed to understand consumers’ awareness of the benefits of organic agriculture, uncover consumers’ organic purchasing habits and gauge the level of trust Canadians have in organic and non-organic claims.

Key findings from the study show:

The face of organic is changing as more “millennials” are shifting towards organic in Canada; one in five (twenty-one per cent) shoppers from 18 to 34 years say they are buying more organic, while shoppers in older age groups are holding steady.
Eighty-six percent of Canadians expect to increase or maintain their organic spending in the near future.
The number of consumers that are regularly buying organic in the country is around 20 million (fifty-six per cent of Canadians).
“Governments are following in the footsteps of consumer trends,” says Tia Loftsgard, Executive Director of COTA. “Federal investment in the organic sector and provincial initiatives supporting farmers to transition to organic show how consumer-led efforts can truly make a difference. We’re proud to be involved in the continued growth of the organic movement alongside its passionate ambassadors this September.”

More and more Canadians are looking to reduce their exposure to synthetic chemicals and genetically engineered (GMO) ingredients with the aim of taking better care of themselves, their families, and the environment. Coast-to-coast Organic Week events range in scale, from smaller organic farm tours to community-wide organic festivals. Hundreds of health food stores, farmer’s markets and grocery chains will be showcasing organic products and educating consumers.

“With events taking place in communities all over the country, there are so many ways Canadians can support and get involved in the Organic Week celebration,” says CHFA president, Helen Long. “Last year, we saw everything from pickling workshops and farm tours to recipe contests and organic food and drink tastings. These happenings represent the creative ways Canadians are choosing to go organic and how they are making a conscious decision to protect their bodies and the environment, all while supporting local farmers.”

To find out more about Organic Week events or promotions being offered near you, please visit organicweek.ca.

Organic Week was made possible this year by champion sponsors UNFI Canada, Sobeys Inc., Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods, Nature’s Path Foods, Clif Bar & Company, alive Publishing Group Inc, PC Organics, Mike and Mike’s Organics, Cal-Organics Farms, Yorkshire Valley Farm, Green Organic Vegetables, Field Farm Marketing Ltd., DOM International Limited, Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, Earthbound Farm Organic, Wholesome!, True Organic Juice, DeeBee’s SpecialTea Foods, Mumm’s Sprouting Seeds, Ecocert Canada, Organic Meadow, Pacific Organic Seafood Association, Organic Garage, The Homemade Organics Company, Fromagerie L’Ancêtre, Pro-Cert Organic, Patience Fruit & Co, The Big Carrot, Hippie Foods, Ethical Bean Coffee, Quality Assurance International, and Fairtrade Canada.

savoury-egg-pancakes

Savoury Egg Pancakes

These easy and satisfying savoury pancakes are quick to reheat in the toaster and are packed with protein, fibre and omega-3 fatty acids. Try it in a wrap or with a salad for a light lunch.
Prep time: 10 minutes

Bake time: 15 minutes

Total time: 25 minutes
Yields: 12 pancakes

2 cups (500 mL) grated zucchini (about 2 small)
1 cup (250 mL) grated sweet potato (about 1 small)
3/4 cup (180 mL) whole wheat flour
6 eggs
1/2 cup (125 mL) ground flax seeds
1/2 cup (125 mL) rehydrated and finely chopped sundried tomatoes*
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tsp. (5 mL) sea salt
1/4 tsp. (1 mL) pepper

Place all ingredients in a large bowl and stir to combine. Dollop 1/4 cup (60 mL) portions of mix onto a large parchment lined baking sheet and spread into 3-inch circles spaced 1-inch apart. Bake at 375F for 15 minutes or until bottoms are light golden brown. Let cool completely and layer with wax paper in between each pancake; freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Reheat pancakes in a toaster or microwave. Serve with fresh salsa, hot sauce, hummus or avocado slices.

Tip: You can also cook these savoury delights in a cast iron skillet. Just reduce the cooking time by five minutes and make sure you add a little oil to the skillet before pouring in the pancake mixture.

How to rehydrate sundried tomatoes*: Combine the 1/2 cup (125 mL) sundried tomatoes with 1-1/2 cups (375 mL) water. Soak for one to eight hours.

Nutritional analysis per pancake:
PROTEIN: 6 grams
FAT: 5 grams
CARBOHYDRATE: 12 grams
CALORIES: 112
FIBRE: 3 grams
SODIUM: 270 mg

apple-pie-buckwheat-oats

Apple Pie Buckwheat Oats

A hearty, comforting and guilt free breakfast with lots of classic fall apple dessert flavour.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 8 hrs or overnight
Yields: 4 servings

2 cups (500 mL) coconut milk (in tetra pack)
1 cup (250 mL) diced apple
1 cup (250 mL) applesauce
1 cup (250 mL) uncooked buckwheat groats
1/2 cup (125 mL) rolled oats
2 Tbsp. (30 mL) maple syrup
2 Tbsp. (30 mL) lemon juice
1-1/2 tsp. (7 mL) cinnamon
1 tsp. (5 mL) vanilla extract

Garnish optional: apple chips, apple slices, vanilla yogurt, coconut whipped cream, cinnamon.

Place all ingredients in a large 1 litre mason or canning jar; shake to combine and refrigerate overnight. Serve topped with your choice of garnish.

Nutritional analysis per serving:
PROTEIN: 8 grams
FAT: 4 grams
CARBOHYDRATE: 61 grams
CALORIES: 308
FIBRE: 4 grams
SODIUM: 0 mg

Alicia Bell - Toronto - Fitness Personality

Hollywood stars have some of the best bodies that we've ever seen! Let's face it, sometimes it's completely unbelievable and we're left to wonder if it is genetics or if it's 'genetically-modified' (i.e. plastic surgery). But the fact of the matter is that no matter what, a great body takes hard work, both in the kitchen and in the gym!

But no worries, for you, we have the major keys to some of Hollywood's hottest bodies... Check out the top 5 trainers of Hollywood below...
#1 Gunnar Peterson - Responsbile for the bodies of the Kardashian clan, Angelina Jolie and more, this Beverly Hill's based celebrity personal trainer is known for helping Hollywood stars shed post pregnancy pounds and helping athletes like Brandon Jennings become stronger, faster and physically better athletes. Peterson enjoys using a mix of steady cardio and HIIT workouts to help clients see maximum results in less time! For tips from this effective personal trainer, visit  his website www. gunnarpeterson.com or following him on social media.
Twitter: gunnar

Instagram: gunnarfitness

#2 Jeanette Jenkins - Have you ever found yourself wondering how Pink returned on the scene after a brief hiatus looking better than ever? Or how after having her first child Alicia Keys looked beyond amazing? Well look no further. Celebrity trainer Jeanette Jenkins is responsible. Using a mix of total body strength moves, yoga and more, Jeanette Jenkins has been able to successfully get some of Hollywood's favs such as Paula Patton into the best shape of their lives! But her magic doesn't just work for stars, you too can be trained by Jeanette by picking up her book or one of her effective DVD's. Check out her website www.thehollywoodtrainer.com to get started on the road to a Hollywood approved body!

Twitter: jeanettejenkins

Instagram: msjeanettejenkins

#3 Tracy Anderson - Want a booty like Jennifer Lopez or arms like Gwyneth Paltrow? Well then it's time for you to pay a visit to Tracy Anderson. This fitness guru has been in the business for a long time and is known for her 'feel good fitness'. Tracy Anderson believes in not just focusing on one area of your body, but moving your body as a whole for those amazing Hollywood results that we all want. Not only does she believe that music is the key to an amazing workout, but her clients are very musical. Catch Tracy on her website www.tracyanderson.com and learn about 'The Method' before she heads to the west coast with J. Lo for her Las Vegas residency.

Twitter: TracyAnderson

Instagram: tracyandersonmethod

#4 A.J. Johnson - Time to head into the A.J. Zone. Familiar face? Think House Party! This Hollywood actress isn't just a part of Hollywood's elite for her acting abilities but for her life changing abilities as well! A.J. Johnson is not only an actress but is known for her work with Beyonce, Anne Hathaway, Gabrielle Union and more! A.J. Johnson's holistic approach to fitness has not only transformed bodies but has also transformed the minds of her clients. A.J. believes in taking a mind, body and soul approach and is an avid believer in the effects of clean eating. Get locked into the AJ Zone by visiting her website www.theajzone.com

Twitter: theajzone

Instagram: theajzone

#5 Mark Jenkins - Keeping hip-hop royalty in shape is a tough job, but someone has to do it, and that someone is Mark Jenkins. Mark Jenkins is a New York based celebrity trainer that is known in the hip hop community for his work with culture greats like Sean 'Diddy' Combs, Mary J Blige and Busta Rhymes just to name a few. This former U.S Navy seal was able to help Mary J. Blige shed 40 pounds in just 2 months and Diddy run the city when he ran the New York Marathon in just 4 hours. To help those looking to get out of a cardio rut or lose a few pounds, he suggest adding jump roping to your next workout. For more tips from this trainer check out his website www.markjenkinsfitness.com!

Twitter: themarkjenkins
Instagram: themarkjenkins

genuine-health

The movement of people taking better care of themselves is on the rise. Nutritional supplements are growing – there are yoga studios on every corner, and hipster juice bars on every other corner – all in the name of achieving incredible health.  A big component of that is getting more fruits and veggies. It’s true that every little bit counts, but have you ever stopped to wonder how much goodness is in that “all-in-one” tub or $8 juice? Not as much as you’d think. The need for proven, clean nutrition is more important than ever, and the solution is greens+.

Boost your nutritional intake, energy and vitality with Canada’s first and only research-proven superfood formula that offers a greater quantity and richer variety than everyday, healthy foods – with up to 350% more concentrated phytonutrient content vs. competing green superfoods! Backed by nine research studies, Genuine Health is the leader in green food nourishment and just one serving of greens+ daily provides a synergistic blend of over 23 plant-based essential nutrients in a formula that is high alkaline-forming and rich in antioxidants.

To the nutrition geeks at heart, the people at Genuine Health knew the value of fruits and veggies when they launched greens+ almost 25 years ago. Standing the test of time as Canada’s favourite superfood supplement, greens+ provides consumers with results that they feel. The concentrated formula of phyto (plant) nutrients contributes to a healthy gut; supports liver function and a healthy brain; boosts mood and energy; balances hormones, and builds your immune system among many other amazing benefits! How do the phytonutrients in greens+ stack up against popular juice and smoothie foods, and other green food supplements? Genuine Health put greens+ under the microscope alongside some nutritionally potent foods to compare phytonutrient levels, gram for gram:

 

 

An average of 350% more concentrated fruits and veggies vs other green food and all-in-one supplements, greens+ packs a plant nutrient-rich boost! Notably, greens+ containing products have up to 6 times more total polyphenols than nutritional gold standards, such as kale and blueberries. Combined with the proven pH balancing and energy boosting properties of greens+, this one-of-a-kind phytonutrient formula protects and balances your body, and most importantly, makes you feel amazing!

If you make one change for amazing health - make it one daily scoop of greens+!

greens+ ORIGINAL:

Get your greens…PLUS! A blend of 23 colourful and nourishing plant ingredients, providing the most abundant source of health-promoting plant nutrients available in a single serving - greens+ is the ONLY superfood proven to give you the highest concentration of fruits and veggies, balance your pH, increase your energy and more!

Key Benefits:

•Up to 350% MORE phytonutrient concentration per serving vs. competitive green food supplements!

•Made with Non-GMO ingredients, greens+ is the only superfood formula in Canada that’s proven by research to establish a balanced, total body system with healthy pH

•Increases vitality, improves mood and provides more energy for your day

•Provides antioxidant and polyphenol protection comparable to a diet super-rich in fresh fruits and veggies

greens+ ORIGINAL is available in three flavours: original, mixed berry, and tangerine, and can be found at your local health food, grocery and drug retailers. Visit www.genuinehealth.com to find a store near you.

VEGAN greens+ O:

VEGAN greens+ O was formulated especially for those who are both passionate and sensitive about the foods they eat. Genuine Health kept the foundation of the award-winning, research-proven and phytonutrient-rich greens+ formula, and removed the allergens, replacing them with equally effective, innovative ingredients - such as organic spirulina, broccoli sprouts, chia seeds, and sunflower lecithin - to ensure that consumers will continue to feel the difference… and experience the BEST tasting greens+ yet!

Key Benefits:

•Rich in phytonutrients

•Provides antioxidant protection

•Improves cardiovascular health

•Improves mood & cognitive Function

•Boosts energy & vitality

•Improves digestive health

•High pH Acid/Alkaline

•Gluten-free, soy-free, non-GMO and vegan

VEGAN greens+ O is available in three flavours: Acai Mango, Unflavoured and Vanilla, and can be found at your local health food, grocery and drug retailers. Visit www.genuinehealth.com to find a store near you.

About Genuine Heath 

Genuine Health makes natural supplements that people are passionate about and because they work. Founder and CEO Stewart Brown’s love for natural health started early in life when he suffered with health issues and found solutions through holistic modalities and supplements. After opening his own chain of natural supplement stores and witnessing first-hand how some products work and some didn’t for his customers, Stewart met Sam Graci, the formulator of the now infamous greens+ and experienced firsthand the effects of taking a product that makes a difference to your health. Today, Genuine Health has over 170 products sold in both Canada and the US, and is focused on empowering people to live life with passion by embracing natural health through products that improve their lives – every day!

8 Steps to Reverse Your PCOS:

A Proven Program to Reset Your Hormones, Repair Your Metabolism and Restore Your Fertility

by Dr. Fiona McCulloch N.D.

For years, an estimated 116 million women have been affected by an unidentified disorder that affects weight, fertility, female hormones, hair, skin and has risk for chronic disease—and most women don’t even know they have it. Answers and treatments are finally available.

The upcoming new book by veteran naturopathic doctor Fiona McCulloch, 8 Steps to Reverse Your PCOS: A Proven Program to Reset Your Hormones, Repair Your Metabolism and Restore Your Fertility (Greenleaf Book Group, September 20, 2016)dives deep into the science underlying the mysteries of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) offering the newest research and discoveries on the disorder and a detailed array of treatment options.

8 Steps to Reverse Your PCOS is an encyclopedic-style book that has vast implications for PCOS, diabetes and weight loss, and it is the first book that introduces the idea of insulin counting,” says Dr. McCulloch.  “Insulin counting involves the measurement of how much a portion of any given food we eat raises blood insulin levels which can, if implemented, change the life of about one out of every ten women in the world—the percentage who suffer in silence from PCOS.”

In her book, Dr. McCulloch also introduces the key health factors that must be addressed to reverse PCOS. Through quizzes, symptoms checklists, and lab tests, Dr. McCulloch gives readers the tools they need to self-identify which of the factors are present in their bodies and what they can do to treat them. Readers will be empowered to be the heroines of their own health stories with the help of this unique, step-by-step natural medicine system to heal their PCOS, and since PCOS is linked with specific genes, helping their daughters with their reproductive and overall hormonal health.  Further, women will learn about the tests, which are important to understand when speaking with doctors. Medical professionals, who understand that conventional medical treatments for PCOS are not very effective overall and who are increasingly seeking reliable, scientifically-backed source materials from naturopathic doctors, will find this to be an up-to-date new source for materials written for practitioners.

8 Steps to Reverse Your PCOS also includes the following topics:

  • Bisphenol A (BPA) may induce PCOS after a single exposure for two generations onward
  • Insulin resistance is a key component of PCOS, and insulin counting may help women reverse their PCOS
  • One in ten women suffer from PCOS which is related to risks for weight gain, slow metabolism and diabetes and 50% of those don’t know they have it
  • 70% of women with PCOS are considered to be insulin resistant or heavy
  • PCOS also causes distressing cosmetic symptoms including hair growth on the face, hair loss from the head and acne which can result in low self-esteem, depression and anxiety
  • Environmental toxins and genetics have been linked to causing PCOS
  • Women with PCOS have a different reproductive cycle and often hit their reproductive peak later impacting family planning
  • Insulin counting has a wide range of implications for PCOS, diabetes and weight loss
  • Evidence-based natural medicine and supplements impact autoimmune conditions and thyroid conditions

Fiona McCulloch, N.D., founder and owner of White Lotus Integrated Medicine, is a naturopath practitioner having worked with thousands of people seeking better health over the past fifteen years. She is a data-junkie who specializes in evidence-based therapies for PCOS, thyroid health, autoimmunity, weight management and infertility among other unique conditions that can all benefit from a system reboot.

Dr. McCulloch is also a medical advisor for IVF.ca: Canada’s premier fertility community and is on the medical advisory committee for the PCOS Awareness Association. As a woman with PCOS herself, she is dedicated to increasing both awareness and research of this important condition that has far reaching effects on the lives of so many women. When she was a young girl, Dr. McCulloch would spend hours “compounding” mixtures made from plants and trees in the woods near her house.  Today, Dr. McCulloch is a graduate of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (2001) and the University of Guelph (biological science).  She is married and the mother of three boys.  She can be reached on FacebookLinkedIn, and Twitter

Dr. McCulloch’s new book, 8 Steps to Reverse Your PCOS, will be available on September 21, 2016 on Amazon and all fine booksellers. 

Addiction and Perception Disorder: 6 Things You Should Know
By Charles G. Hanna

Drinking water

As September is National Recovery Mont I wanted to share with you the below article by recovering addict, Canadian CEO and author of the new book, Higher: Awaken to a More Fulfilling Life, Charles G. Hanna, “Addiction and Perception Disorder: 6 Things You Should Know.”

Addiction is cunning, baffling and powerful, and even after my surrender it kept trying to manipulate my mind to make me slip and destroy my recovery.

I am alive today only because of the miracle I experienced on my third day in treatment. As I entered my room and walked by a mirror, I glimpsed something I had never seen before. I jumped back to take a second look, but it was gone. Gone but not forgotten.

It was like the movie The Fly, where the man is lost within a monster. For a split second, I saw that monster. In that moment, I realized that I was possessed by a demon: addiction.

That was 28 years ago. I now realize that, long before I fell into substance addiction, I was already addicted to a way of thinking that provided the perfect hotbed for addiction. I call this way of thinking Perception Disorder.

Perception Disorder starts as mild discomfort or anxiety and can progress to a total inability to cope or function.

What is Perception Disorder?

Perception Disorder is a condition that causes us to view ourselves as the center of the universe. We see our world from a self-centered perspective and we evaluate everything based on whether we feel it is ‘good’ or ‘bad’ for us.

For example, we may enter a room just as people burst out laughing. If we suffer from Perception Disorder, we might immediately fear that they are laughing at us.

Or a partner may be troubled and want to talk to a friend, and instead of feeling empathy, we become afraid that they don’t value our opinion. This can cause strife and mistrust.

Without open dialogue, we cannot process the negative feelings we experience through our Perception Disorder.  And over time, this can severely erode our quality of life.

How do I know if I have Perception Disorder?

Here’s a short questionnaire to detect the presence of Perception Disorder:

  • Do you think of yourself (or have others described you) as self-centered, close-minded, oversensitive, negative, fearful, or childish?
  • Do you worry excessively, lack empathy, feel shame, say that life is unfair, have enemies, hold grudges, or fail to take good care of yourself? (i.e. smoking, poor dietary habits or sleep patterns)

If you said ‘yes’ to either question, or if you often feel ungrateful or unhappy, then you probably suffer from Perception Disorder to some degree.

Perception Disorder develops during early life when a child is not given adequate attention and time for intimate talks that help her integrate into society with proper grounding.

Such a child is unlikely to share her feelings openly. And this may lead her to develop distorted perceptions about herself and her world. In extreme cases, these children become acutely insecure and vulnerable as they grow into young adults.

How is addiction connected to perception?

Addiction is a disease of perception.

Severe, progressive Perception Disorder can lead to addiction and substance dependence.

The first time a person experiences the numbing effects of any sort of drug or potentially addictive behavior, they may feel incredible relief and a sense of belonging. This emotional relief can initiate their dependence on a substance or behavior.

Over time, and through repetition of such behaviors, the person becomes increasingly isolated from society until the pain is so great that substance use and/or compulsive behavior becomes a repeated distraction, an anticipated relief, and ultimately a necessity.

So in its advanced stages, Perception Disorder can lead to substance abuse and/or behavioral disorders such as compulsive gambling, work, sex, love, or eating, and codependency.

6 Things to Know about Addiction and Perception Disorder

  1. Perception Disorder is a progressive disease and over time may result in severe mental illness, such as addiction.
  2. If you suffer from a substance abuse problem, get help to tackle that first. Nothing will help you before you stop using.
  3. Addiction is a disease that wants to kill you. For this reason, abstinence is not recovery; it is only a prerequisite to recovery.
  4. The underlying Perception Disorder was present before the abuse. It has become exacerbated by the abuse, so treating the Perception Disorder is imperative.
  5. Even if you find yourself completely down and out - perhaps hospitalized or incarcerated – don’t be discouraged. This may be your greatest opportunity to grow in a more meaningful way than would otherwise have been possible.
  6. If you suffer from an advanced stage of Perception Disorder, such as addiction, then getting outside help to arrest the disease must be your sole priority.

Charles G. Hanna is the Chairman, CEO, and founder of a third-party technology provider that he began in a basement in 1979 and built into a leading service consolidation company with offices across Canada. A devoted father of three children, Hanna is involved with a range of charities, including organizations that help with cancer treatment, Canadian artists, and displaced and handicapped people. He has a particular soft spot for children and animals, and contributes his personal time in various ways to youth shelter homes and animal shelter groups. He divides his time between Toronto and Los Angeles. For more information, please visit www.charleshanna.com, and connect with him on Twitter, @hanna_higher.

 

RYU is partnering with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF) for a special event that will coincide with the launch of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, and are looking for your support!
cbcf
  • What: we will be hosting 30-40 people for a bootcamp and brunch (snacks and beverages) at the flagship store on West 4th Avenue on S. In VANCOUVER.
  • When: Saturday October 1st from 9AM-11AM
  • Where: RYU flagship store
  • Why: to raise funds for the CBCF - bootcamp will be by donation with 100% proceeds going towards CBCF
  • Who: bootcamp is open to the public.
Ways you can support:
  1. Join the workout (by donation) and bring a friend, family member or your clients!
  2. Donate your services as part of our event’s raffle or silent auction (ex: 1 free hour FMS assessment and personal training)
  3. Promote our Bootcamp event invitation via social media on FB/Instagram/Twitter (invite graphic coming soon)
  4. Promote the purchase of pink RYU apparel throughout the month of October
    • 25% of proceeds on all featured pink products will be donated to CBCF both in-store and online
  5. Host a "By-Donation" workout of your own at RYU within the month of October (proceeds towards CBCF): please contact Amy to coordinate at amhy@ryu.com

Teen Body Builder - Is She Too Young?

karina-chaves-2-1 karina-chaves-2 karina-chaves-4-1 karina-chaves-5-1 karina-chaves-6

Teen reconciles studies, work and training to fullfill her dream of being a successful bodybuilder.

Karina Chaves just turned 16 years old and will participate on Sunday in the South American Championship. The competition, organized by the WFF federation and to be held in Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil will be the fourth of the young athlete's career.

Karina decided to change the dolls to iron bars at the age of 13 and began training alone at home imitating Youtube training videos without nutritional counseling or diets. The teen did cut out some foods, snacks, soft drinks and any kind of sweets, including chocolate although she loved it so much. All in order to fulfill her dreams of becoming a bodybuilder.

" I started training early because I used to see my brother go to the gym. It made me realize that I could actually lose weight and no longer be the chubby girl as I was called by other children at the time , "recalls Karina.

Even with her family's financial difficulties, it didn't stop Karina: "I never had financial support from anyone, but on the other hand, I can't complain about the moral support given to me by family and friends."

At 14 she began working as a receptionist at a gym and only then she began to eat better and buy supplements. It was also there that she met a bodybuilder Victor Soares, responsible for presenting the championships to Karina. At the time she did not know that at her age she already could attend these events. Her passion for the sport increased more and more.

Today Karina trains from Monday to Saturday for about an hour and a half accompanied by professionals, while following a strict diet recommended by a nutritionist, which is based on good carbs, fats, proteins and sometimes some fruits.

With all this dedication, when she was 15 years old, the teenager competed in a Brazilian Championship and won first place in three categories.

" It was all due to discipline that got all these victories and I hope all will go well on the next one too ," she says proudly and confident.

With the fully defined body, the young girl, who lives in the city of Apucarana, Parana, Brazil is constantly questioned and criticized by colleagues, but says she does not mind.

" Once I was using the stair master and a lady asked me:
- Why is your body all deformed? - I will never forget that day! How can someone compare definition with deformation? I found a bit of an exaggeration on her part , "sighs.

Karina says that even with all running around all day, she can still get good grades in school, be a good worker and a promising athlete.

" I need to always commit myself to school, I plan to study physical education in the future and cannot give in ," she adds.

The 16-year old has become an inspiration for other young people who end up following a heavy workout routine. However raising once again questions about the risk of starting weight training as an adolescence.
We decided to talk to Rickson Moraes, a Brazilian Orthopedic doctor and post graduate in Sports Medicine. During the interview, the doctor confirmed that there are benefits of weight training for teens and adolescents. It has been proven by the medical literature, however, it is essential that the exercises are done under the supervision of professionals used to working with young people, using load and volume and appropriate training.

" The exercises in this age group has always created a lot of discussions among physicians. Not long ago, it was not uncommon that these young people were prohibited from performing these activities, because many were afraid the practice could compromise somehow, growth and development , "concluded the doctor.

Im interested to know your thoughts on the topic? Please comment below. Teen Body Builder - Is She Too Young?

Thanksgiving may be a holiday that we share with our neighbours to the south, but the way we celebrate it is all our own.  We don’t give thanks in November (October’s where it’s at!) and it’s not all about football, turkey pardoning and parades with Canadians. We simply like good friends, good family, and good food.

So if you are looking for a new pumpkin pie recipe. I suggest to give this Carnation Classic Pumpkin Pie a try! You can substitute any of the ingredients you want if you want to give it a healthy twist! For more information about Carnation or recipes visit their website: http://www.carnationmilk.ca

Pumpkin Pie

Carnation Classic Pumpkin Pie

Makes: 8 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 can (354 mL) Carnation regular or 2% evaporated milk

• 1 pastry for 10-inch (25 cm) single-crust pie

• 1 3/4 cups (425 mL) pumpkin pureé

• 1 cup (250 mL) packed brown sugar

• 2 eggs

• 2 tbsp (30 mL) Robin Hood original all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp (5 mL) cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp (2mL) ground ginger

• 1/2 tsp (2mL) ground nutmeg

• 1/4 (1 mL) ground cloves

• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). On floured surface, roll out pastry to 1/8-inch (3 mm) thickness.

2. Fit pastry into 10-inch (25 cm) pie plate; press into bottom and up sides of plate. Trim overhang and flute edges.

3. Whisk together pumpkin purée, sugar, eggs, flour, spices, and salt in large bowl until smooth and well combined; gradually whisk in evaporated milk. Fill pie shell with evaporated milk mixture. Bake in bottom third of oven for 60 to 70 minutes or until set. Let cool completely on rack.

Tip: Pies can be covered with plastic wrap and refrigerated up to 3 days or frozen up to 1 month.

PMS DIET: 8 DO’S AND DONT’S

zaggora

www.drcalapai.net

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is such a regular occurrence for many women that they consider it a normal part of getting their period. The Mayo Clinic estimates about 75 percent of women get at least some form of PMS. Although the causes of PMS aren't well understood, “fluctuating levels of hormones and brain chemicals are thought to play a role. What a woman eats and drinks can also have an effect, “ says  Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O.  a Manhattan Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. He shares with us 10 do’s and don’ts for getting through PMS as pain free as possible.  

 

1)Do get more calcium

Some studies have shown that calcium levels are lower in women with PMS, and that those with the highest intake of calcium reported the mildest PMS symptoms. Dr. Calapai suggests sourcing your calcium from foods such as low-fat milk and dairy, calcium-fortified breakfast cereals and orange juice, and leafy greens.

 

2) Don't consume excessive salt

Salt increases water retention, so if you suffer from premenstrual bloating, do limit the amount of sodium you consume in the run up to your period. Eliminate the salt shaker, and cut back on the canned foods, processed foods and condiments, all of which are overflowing with sodium.

3) Do drink more water

“Although this sounds counter-intuitive,” says Dr. Calapai,  “Water can actually alleviate PMS-related fluid retention. Drink plenty of H2O -- aim for 8 to 10 glasses a day; more when you exercise -- to flush toxins out of your system and reduce premenstrual bloating.”

 

4) Do Eat Dark Chocolate 

Craving the sugary confections like chocolate and cupcakes is totally normal. Try and reach for dark chocolate when you need to satisfy your sweet tooth.  A bonus is, it will boost your mood.

 

5) Don’t Consume Coffee

While you may need that daily cup   (or two) to be functional, studies show that caffeine increases levels of anxiety. Dr. Calapai explains that, “Your blood vessels contract when caffeine is present in your body, which worsens menstrual cramps. Also, for those with loose stool while on their periods, adding caffeine to your diet will make it difficult for your body to retain water and worsen diarrhea.”

 

6) Do Eat Greens 

Losing a lot of blood can cause iron deficiency, which can cause lightheadedness or nausea. To counteract this problem, Dr. Calapai recommends stocking up on darker greens, like spinach, kale and broccoli to get your iron levels back up, but avoid eating them raw. For spinach, sautée with minced garlic and olive oil for a warm, flavorful bundle of nutrients!

 

7) Don’t Drink Alcohol 

It will only worsen feelings of depression and moodiness. One study published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology also found that regular alcohol consumption increased length of and severity of cramps in women who experience cramps during PMS.

 

8) Do Eat Bananas 

Sleep disturbances right before your period are the norm for many women. Plus, experts at John Hopkins University in Baltimore found that too little sleep made women more susceptible to pain (meaning those cramps will feel even worse). So make sure to get your z's by eating bananas, which contain melatonin—a sleep-aid hormone that's secreted at night and helps regulate our body's natural rhythms.

 

Dr. Christopher Calapai D.O.

Anti-Aging Physician and "The Stem Cell Guru"

www.drcal.net

Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. is an Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. Proclaimed as the "The Stem Cell Guru" by the New York Daily News, Dr. Calapai is a leader in the field of stem cell therapy in the U.S.

 

His stem cell treatments have achieved remarkable results in clinical trials on patients with conditions as varied as Alzheimer's, arthritis, erectile dysfunction, frailty syndrome, heart, kidney and liver failure, lupus, MS and Parkinson's.

 

Dr. Calapai started his practice in New York City in 1986 and for over 25 years he has hosted nationally syndicated radio shows, including his two weekly call-in shows on WABC 770-AM, where he offers health and medical advice. He has a show on Saturday morning 8-9am and Sunday evening from 6-7pm. He has consulted with numerous high-profile individuals including Mike TysonMickey Rourke, Steven Seagal, and Fox series Gotham's, Donal Logue and worked as a medical consultant for the New York Rangers hockey team as well as various modeling agencies.

 

Dr. Calapai received his medical degree from New York College of Osteopathic Medicine and he consults in Manhattan with practices on Long Island, in East Meadow and Plainview. He has appeared on News12 and in the pages of 25A Magazine and Social Life Magazine.