Looking to eat well? Keep it simple to make it stick
Stock a smart pantry to stay on track
At the start of 2017, many of us vowed that this year would be different. In 2016, we were too busy to grocery shop, our kids turned their nose up at dinner – so we caved and got takeout more than we’d like to admit. But this year it was going to be different. We were going to eat better, take proper care of ourselves and our families, and not fall into the same traps. But chances are old behaviours have already started rearing their heads, prompting many of us to ask: what am I doing wrong?
You’re doing nothing wrong. Contrary to popular belief, it can take anywhere from 18 to over 250 days to form a new habit. Every single one of us operates on a different timeline, which means our environment greatly influences our success. And when it comes to forming new eating habits, what we keep in our kitchen – or put in our pantry – can sway what we actually end up eating.
Not to mention, getting a meal on the table during the week is no easy task. There is a reason why dinnertime has earned the title of the “witching hour.” From picky eaters, to turning into a short-order cook, or being just too tired to shop, these parental pain points have us yearning for a mid-week win. Well, wait no longer. Help is on the way, with the Minute Rice® #WeekdayWin Challenge. Need a 15-minute recipe for a real? A meal your picky eater will actually eat? Our #WeekdayWin network - a community of moms, foodies and family experts - has the answers. For the next eight weeks, our network will uncover the best, mom-endorsed recipes and meal planning tips to solve the most common pain points for Canadian families. Sourced from their community of moms, our network will help families across Canada to create a new habit with simple meals they can feel good about. After all, who knows better than Mom?
So just what are those dinner time dilemmas for parents?
Shop your pantry for that mid-week win.
Recent Canadian Minute Rice® Research confirms that eight-in-ten women (82%) say that when they’re too busy to grocery shop, they rely on a stocked pantry with key items like rice, pasta or olive oil to prepare easy, wholesome meals at home. As much as many of us romanticize the idea of the daily, European-style shop, our busy North-American lives rarely – if ever, during the week – allow for it.
“When you spend as much time online as we do, you can be lured into falsely believing that every meal you make needs to be an original creation, with carefully-sourced ingredients that were bought day-of,” says family food blogger and #WeekdayWin Network member Julie Albert, who co-founded Bite Me More with her sister Lisa Gnat. “We love cooking like that occasionally, but we can’t do that every day. Our pantries are packed with simple basics that we can quickly match up with a few other ingredients to satisfy our families when we have lots of other things going on,” echoes Lisa.
Kid Friendly meals? The struggle is real.
Every parent has experienced it in one form or another – the long-faced, pouty-lipped expression coupled with an “I don’t want to eat this” (or on worse days a “you can’t make me.”) Minute Rice’s study reveals that nearly four-in-ten parents admit to struggling to find kid-friendly meals their family will eat, and 36% avoid dinnertime altercations altogether by preparing a different meal or dinner for their kids than they do for the adults.
If the adults want fish and veggies with rice, it’s easy enough to substitute scrambled eggs in place of fish, or fruit in place of veggies, without having to create a second full meal from scratch. Interestingly also, a person’s willingness to do this may somewhat depend on where they live: the research shows that people in Ontario are almost twice as likely to customize meals for kids as those from the Prairies.
“Between school, work, and activities many parents have limited time with their kids these days,” says Julie. “Many simply don’t want to spend family time fighting over dinner. Pantry ingredients like instant rice allow for easily adaptable meals that every member of the family can enjoy.”
In keeping with these sentiments, the majority of women (79%) feel that meals they can make at home in 15 minutes, with fewer ingredients, make their life easier during the week. And simple ingredients can help solve that dinnertime dilemma.
Wholesome doesn’t have to be pricy.
The study also revealed that 67% of Canadians want their family to eat wholesome and natural foods, but they feel it’s expensive to do so consistently. In reality, it doesn’t have to be. There are many wholesome foods available that don’t cost an arm and a leg – and many of them can live in your cupboard, which can come as a surprise to some Canadians.
For example, half of us don’t know that instant rice is simply rice that’s been partially pre-cooked, a fact men and women equally agree on. One in four of us admit to not knowing what instant rice is at all.
“Rice is a grain we’ve been eating for thousands of years, that is simple, delicious, naturally fat-free, gluten-free, and non-perishable,” says Norma D’Onofrio, Senior Brand Manager, Minute Rice. “Our instant rice is just rice that’s been partially pre-cooked and dried so that people can save time at home. No additives, and it’s just one ingredient. It’s really that simple.”
This means that those who stock their pantry with staples such as instant rice are in a position to save cooking-time, while also eating a wholesome grain that’s been around for ages.
“Once you’ve decided that rice is going to be a part of the family meal, you only have to select a veggie and a protein to complete your plate,” says Lisa. “A simple solution is imagining your meal in terms of ‘thirds’. Pairing a grain, a serving of vegetables and a protein – like beef or chicken – can be your family’s formula to making dinner time easy in three simple steps.”
What’s your #WeekdayWin?
Most Canadians decide what’s for dinner about an hour before they start cooking, and when you’re in the middle of your busy week, it’s fair to assume that creativity is waning. So start your year off right by following #WeekdayWin for our network’s inspiration, tips, and the winning mom-tested recipes tasted and scored by our network of savvy moms and Canadian families. And there’s more. This February 8th, Bite Me More will provide some mid-week inspiration on our Facebook Live debut which tackles 15 minute meals (for real). Need further motivation? Visit MinuteRice.ca for versatile, delicious and easy 1-2-3 meal ideas and see our network in action.
You’ll soon get used to the satisfaction of consistently getting a meal on the table that’s good for your family – and that you can feel good about serving. Achieved your first Weekday Win? Celebrate with us and share your #WeekdayWin to inspire others. We’ll bask in your glory, and you may even have the opportunity to be showcased on our site.
-30 –
About Minute Rice:
Made by the Catelli Foods Corporation, Minute Rice pre-cooked instant rice is available in tastes and formats that suit all palates. Wholesome, 100% Natural, Premium Long Grain White Rice; Premium Whole Grain Brown Rice - that’s ready in ten minutes; convenient Ready to Serve Cups; flavourful Basmati and Jasmine varieties. For more information, visit MinuteRice.ca.
About the Research Study:
A survey of 1578 Canadians was completed online between November 28th and December 1st 2016 using Leger’s online panel, LegerWeb. A probability sample of the same size would yield a margin of error of +/-2.5%, 19 times out of 20.
Study: Brain Exercises May Help with Impact of Ringing in the Ears
A study just published in JAMA Otolaryngology indicates that certain brain exercises from Posit Science may help patients better cope with tinnitus – a condition commonly referred to as “ringing in the ears.”
The US Centers for Disease Control estimates some 15% of Americans (about 50 million people) have experienced tinnitus; roughly 20 million Americans struggle with burdensome chronic tinnitus; and two million have extreme and debilitating cases. The global number has been estimated at about 360 million people.
In 99 percent of cases, people with tinnitus hear a persistent or intermittent sound (ringing, tones, buzzing, whistling, clicking, etc) that cannot be heard by others, nor objectively measured. In recent years, it has been reported that the incidence is particularly high among firefighters and other first responders exposed to loud sound blasts – a group that was heavily represented in this study.
Typically, individuals with tinnitus have worse than average working memory, selective attention, processing speed and reaction times. The researchers hypothesized that since the plasticity-based brain exercises in BrainHQ had been shown effective in these areas in other populations, they might be beneficial in tinnitus.
In the study run at Washington University in St. Louis, researchers randomized 40 patients, who reported having bothersome tinnitus for at least six months, into an intervention and a no contact control group. The intervention group was asked to train one hour a day, five days per week, for eight weeks with a regimen of online auditory brain training exercises derived from the online BrainHQ exercises from Posit Science. Another 20 healthy adults acted as a second control for comparison purposes.
Intervention and control participants were measured at the beginning and end of the eight-week training period across a number of behavioral and cognitive self-report instruments, through brain scans and with qualitative assessment.
Researchers reported no significant between group differences on the behavioral and cognitive self-report instruments, but the qualitative assessment indicated that half the intervention group reported they felt improvement in their tinnitus.
When asked how much their tinnitus had changed from the start of the study, 50% of the intervention group reported they experienced improvement (with 30% reporting they were much or very much improved), as compared to only 15% in the control group who reported improvement (all of which was reported as minimal improvement). Researchers noted that the qualitative assessment mainly reported improvements in tinnitus, memory, attention and concentration.
The MRI neuro-imaging showed significant between group differences, with the intervention group showing strengthening in areas associated with control and attention. The researchers found this to be consistent with the hypothesis that the plasticity-based exercises drive structural changes in the brain associated with better outcomes.
"We believe that continued research into the role of cognitive training rehabilitation programs is supported by the findings of this study, and the role of neuroplasticity seems to hold a prominent place in the future treatments for tinnitus," the researchers reported. "On the basis of our broad recruitment and enrollment strategies, we believe the results of this study are applicable to most patients with tinnitus who seek medical attention."
“These are encouraging results in addressing a common condition that can have effects ranging from the bothersome to the severely debilitating and life-altering.” said Dr. Henry Mahncke, CEO of Posit Science, the maker of the BrainHQ exercises. “These results further earlier work using our exercises and assessments in this area. We plan to seek additional support for further research, which may someday allow us to bring to market a targeted program for people with tinnitus.”
Want a delicious Super Bowl meal that burns belly fat and help you get lean? Chili! You can even use fatty ground beef. [Recipe below.]
Husbands, boyfriends and other men over 40 can also build testosterone levels – and have more energy, more strength and less belly fat, according to Clark Bartram, 53, Performance & Nutrition Industry Expert for Six Pack Abs, and Lead Advisor to the International Sports Sciences Association. When men’s testosterone levels are low, they face muscle loss, low energy and loss of sex drive. Additionally, their body stores most of the food they eat as belly fat.
Clark Bartram cooks testosterone boosting, belly fat burning chili, his Super Bowl meal of choice.
When a man turns 30, his testosterone levels can decrease by 1-2% a year. By the time he reaches his 40s and 50s, his testosterone production can be down to half of what it once was, according to Bartram.
“Giving you half the testosterone production and double the belly fat – that’s not good,” he says. “That’s why it’s so important for us older men to start boosting our natural testosterone immediately.”
Rather than get testosterone treatments or “legal steroids” (with frequent side effects) from a physician, Bartram says, “Let food be your medicine.”
The fats in red meat as well as salmon and tuna boost testosterone, he said. Other such foods are: almonds, garlic, eggs, cabbage, spinach, asparagus, avocados, bananas, watermelon, citrus fruit, grapes, and honey.
For Super Bowl chili, adding white button mushrooms are a key ingredient to blocking estrogen, the female version of testosterone. Estrogen can cause a man to bloat, develop breast tissue and store more fat around the waist. Rising estrogen levels also cause your belly fat to start producing a testosterone killing chemical that creates even more estrogen.
At TestMaxMeals.com, Bartram offers more testosterone boosting food tips, 3 so-called “healthy” foods that can dramatically decrease testosterone levels, and 3 “cheat” foods that boost testosterone. He also explains how to quickly prepare and cook an entire week’s worth of your favorite testosterone boosting foods in less than an hour and at a low cost.
Clark Bartram’s Super Bowl Chili Recipe
2 lbs. ground beef (15% fat) 1 can kidney beans
1 cup white button mushrooms 1 can black beans
1/2 cup chopped onions 1 can organic chopped tomatoes
2 tbs. chili powder pinch of salt
jar organic tomato puree garlic to taste
1.) Sauté ground beef until it is brown.
2.) Place meat into big pot and add all other ingredients.
3.) Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 30-45 minutes.
Enjoy.
Whole Health Pharmacy Partners and #SickNotWeak work together to provide better support for patients with mental health needs through pharmacies.
"Our new partnership with Michael Landsberg and #SickNotWeak is exciting, because we know there is a real need for more tools and training in pharmacies to better serve the mental health needs of our communities," commented Dean Miller, CEO of Whole Health Pharmacy Partners. "Between driving awareness, providing more education and resources, and connecting to the #SickNotWeak community, we believe our pharmacies will be better positioned to support mental health needs."
The first initiative in this new partnership is #Here4MentalHealth, which is a program designed to raise awareness of mental health needs within the pharmacy, and the communities they serve. After completing extensive patient and caregiver research, a comprehensive program was developed and includes:
- Education day with specialized training from a multidisciplinary team deepening capabilities of pharmacy staff to support patients in their respective communities.
- Handouts developed through conversations with patients and caregivers, so the contents are inspired and guided by people who truly understand the experience.
- In-store peer-to-peer support through interactive weekly challenges encouraging people to share their tips and perspectives related to the management of their mental health needs.
- Mental Health Mondays, wherein pharmacy staff will be wearing #SickNotWeak attire to build awareness for mental health.
- Social media campaign highlighting the findings from the patient and caregiver research, and engaging online communities about mental health.
- Downloadable support tools for all pharmacists interested in delivering better care for these patients.
The #Here4MentalHealth supports Canada's mental health strategy Changing Directions, Changing Lives, by supporting the recommendation to "Provide access to the right combination of services, treatments and supports, when and where people need them."
Michael Landsberg, the founder of #SickNotWeak, added, "We patients know so much about being on the receiving end of health care. Whole Health Pharmacy Partners came to us and asked how they can do a better job on the giving end. This is rare and amazing. These conversations helped build tools that will make a significant difference in the lives of people who can really use the support."
"Given that most people see their pharmacist more regularly than they see their physician, we think this initiative will make the burden that so many patients feel they carry around, a little bit lighter. And sometimes that little bit of help can make all the difference," says Michael Landsberg.
With one in five Canadians being affected by mental health problems or illness, there is a real need to deliver better care at pharmacy. Especially since patients often overlook the pharmacy as a source of support and help for mental health needs.
Dean Miller added, "We want patients and caregivers to know that the pharmacy is a safe and accessible place to get additional help and support. The uniqueness of the contents for this initiative is that it was effectively developed by patients, for patients, which is not as common as you'd expect. After #Here4MentalHealth launches, we will continue to work with the #SickNotWeak organization to develop more programs which can connect with patients through a deeper understanding of their needs, and what works for them."
About Whole Health Pharmacy Partners
One of Canada's newest and fastest growing pharmacy banners, with stores from British Columbia to Ontario, Whole Health Pharmacy Partners is a like-minded partnership of independent pharmacists, committed to delivering the best possible patient programs and a business model that helps ensure long-term sustainability. Along with over 20 stores already part of the network, hundreds of pharmacists have already expressed interest in this unique new model that offers partners: Long-Term Equity, Transparency, Operational Autonomy, Geographic Exclusivity, and Proven Leadership. For more information visit www.wholehealthpharmacy.ca.
About #SickNotWeak
Founded by Michael Landsberg, #SickNotWeak is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping people understand that mental illness is a sickness, not a weakness. With his decades-long television career, combined with his decades-long battle with depression and anxiety, Landsberg is uniquely qualified to fight back against the stigma that surrounds mental illness. #SickNotWeak hopes to lead by Landsberg's example of approaching the conversation surrounding mental illness in a raw and candid way, mixed with a dash of that Landsberg attitude and humour. For more information visit www.SickNotWeak.com.
RELATED LINKS: http://www.wholehealthpharmacy.ca; http://www.sicknotweak.com
Skinny Up Your Soup With This Original, New Cookbook
SKINNY SOUPS 80 Flavor-Packed Recipes of Less Than 300 Calories
By Kathryn Bruton
“Totally delicious I could eat these soups forever.”
– Rachel Allen
Come winter, diets are the last thing on our minds. Warming bowls of comfort food is what everyone craves. Packed with a wide variety of substantial and nutritious soups, SKINNY SOUPS: 80 Flavor-Packed Recipes of Less Than 300 Calories (Kyle Books; January 2017; Paperback $19.95), the first book by food stylist and blogger Kathryn Bruton, offers creative and exciting ways to enjoy this most versatile of foods –with the added bonus of all the recipes having less than 300 calories!
SKINNY SOUPS will appeal to anyone, with or without dietary restrictions, who wants to be more health conscious but continue to eat delicious and satisfying meals. The book offers a variety of soups for everyone, from culinary novices to food experts, while many of the recipes cater for vegetarians and vegans, as well as those on gluten and dairy-free diets.
The book is filled to the brim with an exciting variety of soups fit for a main meal, a fantastically filling lunch options, start-the-day right breakfast bowls, and even delicious dessert options—a testament to how creative this wonderful dish can be. From simple recipes like Miso Roasted Butternut Squash, the restorative Hangover Soup, and tasty Turkey & Quinoa Soup with Peas to 15-Minute Mushroom Soup With a Kick and dessert soups such as Chilled Rhubarb, Orange and Chia Seed Soup, Kathryn minimizes the use of cream and substitutes fattening butter with nutritious olive, grapeseed, and nut oils, so that every soup in Skinny Soups is less than 300 calories per portion, but still jam-packed with flavor.
Whatever your ability in the kitchen, soup is a dish everyone can have a go at successfully. Every recipe is open to interpretation, ready for you to stamp with your own personality, if you so wish. So whether you use these recipes as guide to eat healthier, aid weight loss or simply enjoy some delicious bowls, the most important thing is that you enjoy doing it.
About the Author: Kathryn Bruton is a food stylist, recipe developer and blogger. Born in Ireland, she moved to Edinburgh to study fashion, but realized her real passion was food and switched to a diploma in cooking at Leith’s. She now lives in London. Visit her online at www.thelazybaker.co.uk
SKINNY SOUPS: 80 Flavor-Packed Recipes of Less Than 300 Calories
By Kathryn Bruton Photography by Laura Edwards
Kyle Books January 2017; Paperback; 978-1-909487-50-5; 160 Pages; 6 ½” x 9”; Full-Color Photographs Throughout; 80 Recipes; $19.95
Coast to Coast Against Cancer Foundation Distributes $4.1M to Childhood Cancer Charities across Canada for 2016
Over $44 Million has been distributed since 2004 to improve the lives of children and their families living with cancer
Coast to Coast Against Cancer Foundation (CTCACF) - Canada's largest national charity devoted to fighting childhood cancer - announced today the disbursement of $4.1M to a variety of childhood cancer charities across Canada, helping fund important survivorship, research and family support programs in every province. These funds represent CTCACF's fundraising activities for 2016, with 100 percent of receipted donations disbursed directly to designated charities.
"The funds we raise are critical in supporting programs that can improve the survival rates and the quality of life for children and their families living with this terrible disease that takes more Canadian kids than all other diseases," said Jeff Rushton, Co-Founder, Passsionate Volunteer and Board Chair, CTCACF. "I'm grateful and humbled by the hard work of our volunteers and the generosity of sponsors, whose contributions allow our Foundation to distribute 100 percent of receiptable donations directly to the worthy charities who count on us to help them deliver services, conduct research and provide treatment in support of these kids and their families."
The $4.1m was distributed to over 40 charities at the local, regional and national level in each province across Canada. Recipient organizations include pediatric oncology hospital units for research programs, childhood cancer camping organizations who deliver support programs and camping experiences for kids & their families going through the disease, and organizations supporting the financial and other needs of patients and their families throughout the cancer journey.
1,700 children under the age of 19 are diagnosed with cancer every year and childhood cancer is the leading disease-related cause of death in Canadian children. For the 75 percent of childhood cancer patients who beat the disease, over 50 percent suffer late effects of the disease and treatment. Childhood cancers are very different from adult cancers and rarely benefit from general cancer research. At the same time, the detection and treatment of childhood cancer places unique demands on our healthcare system.
CTCACF raises funds through a series of high quality, memorable, physically challenging, national and regional events that encourage active lifestyles and engage sponsors, participants, donors and volunteers.
CTCACF Events for 2017:
Hero Ride June 3rd-4th
- A two-day, 250km biking expedition with a start/end point at King City and an overnight stay at The Westin Trillium House at Blue Mountain.
Bike for Tykes June 15th
- Enjoy four exhilarating hours of spinning, relay style, on a stationary bike in the Toronto financial district.
Tour for Kids Alberta July 14th-16th
- Ride over 100km/day in Calgary's gorgeous Rockies, sleep one night at Camp Kindle, and see how your fundraising helps the camp in need.
Tour for Kids Atlantic July 29th-30th
- Two glorious days along the shores and through the wilderness of Nova Scotia. Spend the night at Camp Brigadoon, the local camp we support.
Tour for Kids Ontario August 18th-20th
- Ride 100-200+km/day along the Niagara Escarpment, staying overnight at Brock University. Camp Trillium, one of our recipients, hosts lunch for all riders on the 19th.
Ride for Karen Aug 27th
- A one-day cycling event in Stouffville held as a tribute to the life and legacy of Karen Tobias. Ride 100, 160 or 200km, celebrate your ride with friends at the BBQ and pasta lunch.
Sears National Kids Cancer Ride Sept 6th-23rd
- Join 42 National Riders when they depart White Rock, BC and cycle 7000km across the country to Halifax, Nova Scotia. Visit hundreds of communities, meet many childhood ambassadors, spend time at the Hospital Foundations and raise funds for kids cancer research.
Knobby Tire Trek for Kids Sept 22nd-23rd
- A family-friendly, 3-day mountain biking adventure on pre-built trails providing all types of riding terrain. The trails are located on beautiful private property.
Tour d'Epicure Sept 30th
- An exciting one-day cycling and epicurean adventure in the Niagara Peninsula for the connoisseur of food, wine and cycling!
Various Inside Rides throughout the year
- A team-based indoor cycling challenge and fundraising event which promotes volunteerism and encourages physical activities. Perfect for highschools, universities, work place environments, community groups and more.
About Coast to Coast Against Cancer Foundation
As Canada's only national charity devoted to fighting childhood cancer, Coast To Coast Against Cancer ensures 100% of receiptable funds raised go toward improving the survival rate and quality of life of children and their families impacted by cancer. Funds are raised by conducting memorable events that encourage active and healthy lifestyles. From cycling rides to team-building activities, children across the country benefit from the generous support of our sponsors, participants, donors and volunteers. www.beyondkidscancer.ca
SOURCE Coast to Coast Against Cancer Foundation
Goodbye, Hurt & Pain:
7 Simple Steps to Health, Love and Success
By Dr. Deborah Sandella, PhD, RN
REGENERATING IMAGES IN MEMORY (RIM)
— A Cutting-Edge Approach to Understanding the Root of Your Emotions
“Every once in a while, you read a book that has a profound personal impact on you. This book will do that. It is written from the heart in a
down-to-earth way that will touch you intimately—and probably change your life.”
-Jack Canfield, Co-Creator of Chicken Soup for the Soul ® Series
Emotions and feelings are invisible and often ignored and, when not addressed, can have a toxic impact on your relationships and overall physical and mental health. It’s time to tackle our emotions, flush the negativity out of our system, and establish a self-understanding that will change the way we see the world, as well as how we interact and respond to people and situations.
In Goodbye, Hurt & Pain: 7 Simple Steps to Health, Love and Success [Conari Press], Dr. Deborah Sandella, PhD, RN uses cutting-edge neuroscience research and her revolutionary Regenerating Images in Memory (RIM) technique to show how blocked feelings can hold us back from getting what we want. Dr. Sandella teaches us to move destructive feelings such as fear, anger, hurt, resentment, and envy out of the body, which is not achieved through discussion but rather by understanding the unique inner connection of our left and right brains. Tapping into the right brain creativity, sensitivity and emotions through Dr. Sandella’s groundbreaking techniques helps identify the deep rooted inner feelings which feeds our left brain to deliver the message we truly desire.
“Once you know how to dial into your feelings, your native emotional intelligence begins to respond much like a self-cleaning oven, problem-solver, and success magnet,” says Dr. Sandella. “And results come quickly. You will find yourself resolving deep-rooted problems and manifesting your dreams at speeds as fast as Google drops search results.”
Through amazing real-life stories in Goodbye, Hurt & Pain, Dr. Sandella will expand your conscious thinking and unconscious beliefs to allow you to trust that saying goodbye to painful feelings and memories is easier than you’ve ever imagined. She teaches us that emotions are not good or bad but simply a radar of our inner emotional well being. “Feelings engage a process not a conclusion,” adds Dr. Sandella.
In this inspiring and motivating manual for managing and ramping up your emotional intelligence, you’ll discover:
- The secret to Dr. Sandella’s RIM technique, which is an inventive way to uproot emotional barriers and live your best life
- How letting go of old feelings and traumatic memories makes people feel and look younger, lighter, more energized, and less burdened
- Feelings are predictable and controllable—when you know how they work!
- Why it’s crucial to reduce overwhelming emotion into controllable form, and how to manage it effectively
- Seven simple and speedy tools for eliminating unnecessary suffering in your daily life
- How anyone can renew their emotional equilibrium whenever they need to and master their emotions in the blink of an eye
Dr. Deborah Sandella is an award-winning psychotherapist, university professor, and the originator of the groundbreaking RIM Method, which is a heavily-backed neuroscience tool for reducing stress and improving the quality of life. She has been called a “master healer,” and has been helping thousands of people find themselves over the past 40 years. Dr. Sandella has frequently shared the stage with Jack Canfield, originator of the Chicken Soup For the Soul series and, with him, she has co-authored Awakening Power, a guided meditation program and instruction booklet. She has been acknowledged with numerous professional awards, including Outstanding Clinical Specialist, Research Excellence, and an EVVY Best Personal Growth Book Award.
Learn more about Dr. Sandella at www.RIMinstitute.com and www.GoodbyeHurtandPain.com. Connect on @drdebsandella and Facebook.
Goodbye, Hurt & Pain: 7 Simple Steps to Health, Love and Success is currently available for pre-order on Amazon and will be available through all major booksellers on September 1, 2016.
Canada-wide competition seeks great new ideas to support healthy aging
Prizes total $75k in cash and in-kind services
A national ideathon competition launched by AGE-WELL and HACKING HEALTH will take place in five Canadian cities in 2017. The goal is to identify and invest in great new technologies and services to support healthy aging.
Prizes awarded at the AGE-WELL–HACKING HEALTH National Ideathon will total $75,000 in cash and in-kind services.
Local ideathons are being held in: Toronto (Feb. 3), Montreal (Mar. 3), Halifax (May 13) and Vancouver (date to follow). One winning project from each local event will be eligible for the final round at the AGE-WELL 2017 Annual Conference in Winnipeg on Oct. 17-19, 2017.
People interested in taking part can sign up here. Eligibility criteria and competition rules and regulations are posted on the competition main page.
An ideathon is a collaborative, workshop-like event where diverse stakeholders harness their collective knowledge and creativity to brainstorm innovative solutions to pressing challenges. Participants use user-centric design techniques and methodologies (such as ideation, journey mapping and prototyping), and the creation of an initial business case, to propose a novel solution.
"AGE-WELL and HACKING HEALTH share an interest in bringing people together to develop creative solutions to health-related challenges," says Dr. Alex Mihailidis, Scientific Director, AGE-WELL. "By partnering to host this competition, we will trigger more innovation and much-needed solutions to support the independence, health and quality of life of older people, and to support their caregivers."
Luc Sirois, Managing Director and Co-Founder of HACKING HEALTH, a global initiative, says the partnership and competition will help to bring together tech and medical communities and "catalyze the innovation spirit."
Generous sponsors of the national competition are: Bereskin & Parr, the Impact Centre, and Aging2.0 Toronto.
About AGE-WELL
AGE-WELL NCE Inc. (http://www.agewell-nce.ca/, @AGEWELL_NCE) is a pan-Canadian network of industry, non-profit organizations, government, care providers, end users, and academic partners working to drive innovation and create technologies and services that benefit older adults and caregivers. Its vision is to harness and build upon the potential of emerging and advanced technologies in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), e-health, information communication technologies (ICTs), and mobile technologies to stimulate technological, social, and policy innovation. AGE-WELL was launched in 2015 through the federally funded Networks of Centres of Excellence program.
About HACKING HEALTH
HACKING HEALTH (http://hackinghealth.ca, @hackinghealthca) is a Canadian-based international non-for-profit organization. With over 40 cities across 5 continents, HACKING HEALTH's goal is to promote more innovation in healthcare through collaboration by putting healthcare professionals and patients at the centre of the innovation process, allowing participants to build realistic, human-centric solutions to front-line healthcare problems. HACKING HEALTH partners with renowned organizations and institutions such as AGE-WELL to develop a worldwide patient centered movement.
SOURCE AGE-WELL Network of Centres of Excellence (NCE)
The launch of Dexcom Canada will reshape how Canadians living with diabetes access and use continuous glucose monitoring
Dexcom Inc., the leader in Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM), has expanded with Canadian headquarters
Dexcom, Inc. (NASDAQ: DXCM) announced today that it is expanding its global presence with a new Canadian headquarters in Burnaby, British Columbia. The move aims to make it easier for more Canadians to get started with CGM.
The launch of Dexcom (Canada) Inc. means that Canadians living with diabetes can expect enhanced customer experience and support, and the ability to purchase CGM systems directly at Dexcom.com/Canada. This expansion reflects Dexcom's mission and commitment to make it easier for Canadians living with diabetes to experience the benefits of CGM for diabetes management. Unlike blood glucose testing which gives a number for a single point in time, CGM shows where glucose is, where it's going, and how fast it's getting there – so patients can take quick action to avoid dangerous glucose events or increase time spent in range.
"Dexcom is committed to transforming diabetes care and management by delivering best-in-class solutions and by responding to the needs of the community," explains Kevin Sayer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Dexcom. "We are excited to share our dedication to driving better outcomes and improved quality of life for people living with diabetes in Canada."
Dexcom's new Canadian operation coincides with the launch of the Dexcom G5 Mobile CGM system. It is the only CGM system in North America approved to replace painful fingerprick glucose testing for diabetes treatment decisions, making it a significant leap forward in diabetes management (fingerpricks are only needed every 12 hours to calibrate). The Dexcom G5 is also the first and only fully mobile CGM system that sends glucose data directly to a compatible smart device. Securely transmitted every five minutes, this glucose information allows for real-time diabetes management.
The Dexcom G5 Mobile CGM System is approved to use in patients as young as 2 years of age, without the need for confirmatory fingerpricks. And with the ability to share data, parents can remotely monitor their child's glucose information and receive alerts – for peace of mind while their child is beyond their supervision.
"When I'm running long distances, hypos are a constant danger," explains endurance athlete Sébastien Sasseville, who lives with Type 1 diabetes. "With the Dexcom G5, I get glucose readings every five minutes so I know right where I stand, and where I'm headed. I can act immediately to bring my levels into the right zone. And all of this data is right on my phone, so I don't have to carry around my receiver which was a hassle. But the best part is I don't have to stop mid-run and do annoying, painful fingerpricks – I can really just focus on the finish line." With the help of his Dexcom CGM system, Sasseville has completed six Ironman Triathlons, run the Sahara Race, and, most recently, run 7,200 kilometres across Canada, the equivalent of 170 marathons.
The Dexcom G5 Mobile CGM System will be available within the first quarter of 2017. And marking Dexcom's commitment to helping Canadians access this technology, the company will be offering monthly pricing options for the first time globally. Canadians interested in the Dexcom G5 Mobile CGM system and staying up to date on its launch are encouraged to visit Dexcom.com/Canada.
About Diabetes and Continuous Glucose Monitoring
With diabetes, the body cannot produce or use the hormone insulin effectively, causing a buildup of glucose, or sugar, in the blood. People with diabetes who take insulin must monitor their blood glucose levels frequently. Uncontrolled glucose can cause health complications and even death.i,ii
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is considered the most significant breakthrough in diabetes management in the past 40 years.iii CGM is important because, in addition to providing the glucose level, it provides the direction and rate of glucose change with the push of a button and alerts users when glucose is too low or too high with built-in and customizable alarms. A recent study showed that after one year, patients with type 1 diabetes who used CGM alone had significant A1C reductions regardless of the type of insulin delivery method used, including insulin pumps.iv
About Dexcom, Inc.
Dexcom, Inc., headquartered in San Diego, CA, and has operations in Canada, is dedicated to helping people better manage their diabetes by developing and marketing continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) products and tools for adult and pediatric patients. With exceptional performance, patient comfort and lifestyle flexibility at the heart of its technology, users have consistently ranked Dexcom highest in customer satisfaction and loyalty.v For more information on the Dexcom CGM, visit www.dexcom.com.
References
i Hyperglycemia (High blood glucose). American Diabetes Association Web site. http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/hyperglycemia.html. Updated August 5, 2013. Accessed December 3, 2013.
ii Hypoglycemia (Low blood glucose). American Diabetes Association Web site. http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/hypoglycemia-low-blood.html. Updated July 16, 2013. Accessed December 3, 2013.
iii Clarke SF and Foster JR. A history of blood glucose meters and their role in self-monitoring of diabetes mellitus. Br J Biomed Sci. 2012;(3)2:83-93.
iv J. Soupal, J. Skrha Prazny, M. Flekac, L. Petruzelkova, J. Skrha, et al. Comparison of different treatment modalities for Type 1 diabetes including Sensor-Augmented Insulin Regimens (SAIR), in 52 weeks of follow ups: A COMISAIR Study. Diabetes Technology and Therapeutics. Vol 18, No. 9, Sept. 2016.
v dQ&A research, 2009-2016
Canadians favour fitness over finances when it comes to 2017 resolutions
Research highlights motivations, plans to achieve fitness/nutrition goals
One in three (33%) Canadians say improving their personal fitness and nutrition is their top new year's resolution, compared with only 21 per cent who chose to focus on financial goals, based on a recent Ipsos survey.
The survey, conducted on behalf of GoodLife Fitness, also found 13 per cent of Canadians resolved to dedicate more time to travel and leisure, 11 per cent plan to quit bad habits like smoking or drinking, and 10 per cent would spend more time with family and friends.
"It's great to see more Canadians choosing fitness and nutrition as their number one resolution for 2017 because it suggests people are making positive choices when it comes to eating well and being active, with the goal of feeling better overall," said David 'Patch' Patchell-Evans, founder and CEO of GoodLife Fitness.
More than half (53%) of Canadians say improving their overall quality of life is the primary motivation for pursuing a health and wellness resolution. Preventing health risks (45%), losing weight (42%) and increasing their energy (41%) ranked as other top reasons to exercise more and eat better.
Many Canadians say they're willing to make lifestyle changes to achieve their fitness and nutrition goals. Nearly half (45%) say they would plan to change their eating habits by developing a healthy meal plan, while one in three (34%) say they would set a weight loss goal for themselves.
Other Canadians are looking to become more active. Four in 10 (41%) would spend more time outdoors, while one in four (24%) say they'd find a friend to be active with. One in five Canadians (18%) say they would join a gym.
"These are all concrete steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Whether it's joining a fitness club, consulting with a personal trainer, making a meal plan or just getting out for a walk, Canadians are finding ways to eat healthier foods and exercise more in 2017," said Patch. "The important part is to build healthier habits into your daily routine. That way you're more likely to stick with your resolution beyond the first few weeks."
To find out more about what helps Canadians stay motivated to work out, GoodLife Fitness polled 1,100+ longer-term members who have work out at the gym a minimum of 10 times per month, over the past two years or longer.
GoodLife Fitness' research experts conducted a topic-modelling analysis on the responses, and found the top three motivating factors for long-term members are:
- The positive feeling or emotional boost that occurs after exercise – whether it's more energy, a productivity boost, a better mood or a sense of relaxation.
- The community and people they meet when they go to the gym: their personal trainers, the group class instructors, the team trainers, the people in their group classes, and their friends. The members often looked to others for accountability and motivation.
- The long-term benefits of exercise, including that chance to feel younger and have a better quality of life as they age.
When asked about the secret to long-term fitness success, the most popular response was to rely on a personal trainer or group fitness instructor to motivate them and keep them accountable. Another secret was to make exercise a non-negotiable part of the daily routine. Finding something you love to do is also a major part of success – whether it's running, yoga, weights or group fitness classes.
"Making a personal connection at the gym, by bringing a friend, taking a group fitness class, working with a personal trainer, or by signing up for a team training camp seems to be an essential step in establishing a fitness routine," explained Tracy Matthews, GoodLife Fitness Executive Director of Member Services. "We heard repeatedly that members feel better after a workout, and would actually push themselves to go to the gym to boost their mood and productivity. These immediate emotional and psychological benefits are major drivers in helping members stick with their routine."
About the research
Ipsos survey
Ipsos conducted a poll on behalf of GoodLife Fitness. A sample of 1,000 Canadians were interviewed between December 15 and December 19, 2016 as part of Ipsos' online panel. Weighting was then employed to balance demographics to ensure the sample's composition reflects that of the adult population according to Census data and to provide results intended to approximate the sample universe. The precision of Ipsos online polls is measured using a credibility interval. In this case, the poll is accurate to within +/ - 3.5 percentage points, 19 times out of 20, had all Canadian adults been polled.
GoodLife Fitness long-term member survey
The survey of long-term members was led by Scott Leith, Ph.D, data scientist and research psychologist with GoodLife Fitness. GoodLife received 1,120 responses to an online survey of long-term active members, who have worked out a minimum of 10 times per month for two years or more. Members were asked a series of closed and open-ended questions and a topic-modelling analysis was performed to determine overarching themes in the open-ended questions. The average age of respondents was 45, and the 25th percentile age was 33. Respondents were approximately 55 per cent female and 45 per cent male.
About GoodLife Fitness
Proudly Canadian since 1979, GoodLife Fitness is the largest fitness company in Canada and the fourth largest in the world. With over 375 clubs from coast-to-coast, including 40 Énergie Cardio and ÉconoFitness Clubs in Quebec, approximately 14,400 employees and more than 1.3 million Members, GoodLife is helping to transform the health and wellness of one in 28 Canadians every day. GoodLife also provides workplace wellness programming and services to more than 3,000 corporate partners across Canada. www.goodlifefitness.com
SOURCE GoodLife Fitness
