Pregnant women should increase vitamin D levels - new studies suggest

TORONTO, ON – New studies have shown how important it is for pregnant women to have optimal blood levels of vitamin D to help lower the risk of their babies developing multiple sclerosis and autism.

A newly published study in Neurology from Danish researchers has found that babies born within the lowest quintile of vitamin D levels had twice the risk for future multiple sclerosis (MS) as infants born in the highest quintile. This led the researchers to conclude that low concentrations of neonatal vitamin D are associated with an increased risk of MS.

Earlier this year, a study published in JAMA Neurology on data from the Finnish Maternity Cohort also found that maternal vitamin D deficiency during early pregnancy was associated with a 2-fold increased risk of MS in the offspring compared with women who did not have deficient vitamin D levels.

Adding further support for increased vitamin D supplementation for pregnant women is a new study published in Molecular Psychiatry on autism. The large population-based cohort of mothers and their children found that gestational vitamin D deficiency was associated with an increase in autism-related traits in 6-year-old children linking gestational vitamin D deficiency and altered brain development. The authors concluded: “It is feasible that a safe, cheap and publicly accessible vitamin D supplement in at risk groups may reduce the prevalence of this risk factor. Just as prenatal folate supplementation has reduced the incidence of spina bifida, we speculate that prenatal vitamin D supplementation may reduce the incidence of autism.”

Dr. Reinhold Vieth, Scientific Advisor for the Vitamin D Society and retired professor at the University of Toronto, says that in addition to lowering the risk of developing multiple sclerosis and autism, a clinical trial now shows that risk of premature birth is lower if American women raise their blood vitamin D levels that match amounts that are naturally present in the blood of women living in the tropics.

“Getting vitamin D levels of pregnant women that are ‘natural for human beings’ will have a beneficial effect on infant health that will last a lifetime,” says Dr. Vieth.

Vitamin D scientists recommend that everyone including pregnant women reach a vitamin D blood level of between 100-150 nmol/L. Pregnant Canadian women, especially through winter, should consider taking up to 4,000 IU/d of vitamin D3 supplement for the best health of their future baby. You should test your 25(OH)D blood level after 3 months and see if the 100 nmol/L level has been achieved. If not adjust your dosage.

At the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), The Protect Our Children NOW! Program was launched by GrassrootsHealth and MUSC in 2015. The program helps pregnant women achieve a vitamin D level of greater than 100 nmol/L and frequently requires doses of 4,000 IU/d. It is expected to produce best practice procedures that can be replicated by hospitals worldwide and is based on research conducted by Dr. Hollis and Dr. Wagner of MUSC.

The Institute of Medicine (IOM) and Health Canada have recommended that the tolerable upper intake level (UL) of vitamin D for pregnant women is 4,000 IU/d. This represents the maximum daily intake that is unlikely to cause adverse health effects. Previous randomized controlled trial studies have proved the safety and effectiveness of pregnant women taking 4,000 IU of vitamin D3 supplementation per day.

“This new research adds valuable scientific evidence proving the importance for pregnant women to have optimal vitamin D levels between 100-150 nmol/L for the health of their new infant,” says Perry Holman, Executive Director of the Vitamin D Society. “The Vitamin D Society encourages medical professionals to advise pregnant women to take up to 4,000 IU of vitamin D3 supplementation per day and to reach the required serum level. It’s a safe, easy and inexpensive way to help ensure that they give their infant the best chance for a healthy life. This change to current clinical practices could help prevent future cases of multiple sclerosis and autism in Canadian infants.”

About the Vitamin D Society:

The Vitamin D Society is a Canadian non-profit group organized to increase awareness of the many health conditions strongly linked to vitamin D deficiency; encourage people to be proactive in protecting their health and have their vitamin D levels tested annually; and help fund valuable vitamin D research. The Vitamin D Society recommends people achieve and maintain optimal 25(OH)D blood levels between 100 – 150 nmol/L (Can) or 40-60 ng/ml (USA).

To learn more about vitamin D, please visit www.vitamindsociety.org

About GrassrootsHealth:

GrassrootsHealth is a US based non-profit public health research organization dedicated to moving public health messages regarding vitamin D from science into practice. It has a panel of 48 senior vitamin D researchers from around the world contributing to its operations. If you’d like to learn more about GrassrootsHealth Protect our Children NOW! Project, please contact Jen Aliano, Project manager, at jen@grassrootshealth.org or visit www.grassrootshealth.net.

Celebrate the holidays with swoon-worthy gifts from Toronto's favourite brands: Province Apothecary, Bacchus & Barley, Studio Fitzroy, Erin Tracy Bridal & Fine Jewellery, MISFITSTUDIO and VdeV Maison

The lights are strung, the snow is glistening and the streets are filled with joy. That's right folks, the holiday season is finally here. As the holiday spirit grows, so does your shopping list. Finding uniquely stunning gifts for your loved ones can be a battle. Fear not, Toronto's favourite brands have created exciting holiday gift guides with something for everyone on your shopping list. Celebrate the holidays this year with Province Apothecary, Bacchus & Barley, Studio Fitzroy, Erin Tracy Bridal & Fine Jewellery, MISFITSTUDIO and VdeV Maison. From beauty and fashion to fitness and home, these luxe Canadian brands will brighten your holiday season. 

Give the gift of glowing skin with Province Apothecary's all-natural holiday must-haves

New Radiant Body Oil with Argan + Black Cumin - $28.00 

Province Apothecary is here to gift young, radiant skin this holiday season with the new Radiant Body Oil. Province Apothecary's new Radiant Body Oil with Argan & Black Cumin is a luxurious blend of pure plant oils formulated to benefit all skin types. Let this rich body oil moisturize and nourish your loved one's skin and enliven and empower their spirit. Province Apothecary's beautiful blend of botanical carrier oils softens the skin, while geranium, clary sage, lavender and frankincense essential oils stimulate your creativity, boost cellular circulation, tone your skin and gently detoxify the body.

New Sea Salt Soap - $14.00 

Does someone on your shopping list have sensitive skin? Meet the perfect soap for everyone! Province Apothecary's rich soap gently cleanses with the moisturizing benefits of pure, unscented botanical oils of coconut and olive. Canadian sea salt infuses the skin with beneficial trace minerals and draws toxins out of the body naturally, resulting in soft, healthy skin. Say goodbye to dull winter skin and hello to a radiant complexion with the new Sea Salt Soap.

New Sweet Orange & Bay Essential Oil Incense - $16.00 

For a limited time only, Province Apothecary has the perfect scent for the holidays.Province Apothecary's new Sweet Orange & Bay Essential Oil Incense is the perfect way to uplift spirits and calm the mind through aromatherapy. Let the smell of Sweet Orange & Bay wash over your home with their soothing aromas. Whether your setting the mood for a holiday party or finding that perfect gift for that special someone, Province Apothecary's new Sweet Orange & Bat Essential Oil Incense has got you covered this holiday season.

Bacchus & Barley has leather lovers covered this holiday season with this leather accessory wish list 

The Necessities Tray (Spotted Cow-hide) - $59.00 

The Necessities Tray is designed for those who like to keep their essentials organized. Ever go to head out the door and can't find your keys, wallet, or phone? We used to have that problem until we discovered these trays. Problem solved. Every full-grain leather tray is totally unique as a result of the distinct markings on the hide. The tray also unsnaps to flatten for easy travel. The Necessities tray is a gift everyone can enjoy!

Available in spotted cow-hide, jet black, copper and whiskey brown

Night on the Town Wallet - $59.00 

Bacchus & Barley's minimalist credit card wallets, made of full-grain leather, are perfect for someone who loves a night on the town. Don't pull a Costanza, put away your bulky wallet and keep things simple by taking only the necessities. With a slim design, the Night on the Town Wallet kills "fat pocket syndrom." This is the perfect gift to keep your friends and family organized while painting the town red.

​Available in: copper, whiskey brown, chevron navy, black and red. 

Leather dog collar (brown) - $65.00 - $75.00 

Does fido need a holiday gift this year? Bacchus & Barley teamed up with a local tack shop to bring you these handmade saddle leather collars, giving your dog a look of elegance. In addition to their raw beauty, these leathers have been tried and tested to take on the wear-and-tear of your playful pooch. These products are crafted to grow more beautiful over time and are guaranteed to last the lifetime of your dog. Give that cute doggy in your life a classy gift this year. Matching leashes available as well.

Available in: brown and black

Stun at every holiday party with Studio Fitzroy's glamorous dress rentals 

The Last Word Dress by Pink Stitch -  $65.00 for 4 day rental 

Your favourite LBD is finally here in RED, just in time for the Holiday Party season! Book this one early because she's a magical little number that looks good on everyone. Plus, POCKETS. Also available in Black and Blue.

Fully lined.

Back zipper.

Midi length.

Night Shimmer Mini Dress by Free People - $60.00 for 4 day rental

This piece is the cutest little sequin party dress with nude lining. This dress looks gorgeous layered under a faux fur or even over a black turtleneck for when you're heading straight from the office to the party!

Poly/Nylon blend.

Imported.

Marchesa lace Gown by Elle Zietoune -  $100.00 for 4 day rental 

Be still our beating hearts. Ultra feminine long sleeved lace bodycon off the shoulder gown for when you need to get really fancy this holiday season.

Hidden back zipper.

Built in cups & boning.

Designed in Australia.

Imported.

Perry Set off the shoulder crop and tulle skirt -  $90.00 for 4 day rental

Bring sexy back this holiday season with this flattering number. High waist tulle overlay ballgown skirt with a lace off the shoulder crop top! Crop it like it's hot, ladies.

Designed in Australia.

Imported.

 Sparkle this holiday season Erin Tracy Bridal & Fine Jewellery's his and her gift guide 

For him

Koi Band Ring - $225.00 

Sterling silver or gold

For him

Koi Tag Necklace - $295.00

Sterling silver

For him

Koi Link Bracelet - $295.00

Sterling silver with matte black plating

For her

Talon Necklaces -  $125.00 

Sterling Silver, Gold Fill, Rose Gold, Crystals

For her

Deco Luxe Rings - $390.00

Sterling Silver or 10K Yellow Gold, Crystals

For her

Caldera Earrings - $250.00

Gold Fill, Grey Moonstone, Quartz

Celebrate the holidays with a healthy mind and body courtesy of MISFITSTUDIO

 MISFITSTUDIO Gift Card 

The MISFITSTUDIO gift card is the perfect holiday gift for the spiritual, fitness gurus in your life. Adopting a multidisciplinary and holistic approach to movement, MISFITSTUDIO takes the mind, body and soul on a wild physical journey with the MISFITMETHOD. Rooted in yoga, informed by pilates and inspired by dance, MISFITMETHOD incorporates movement as meditation.With two studios in Toronto, located on Queen Street West and Ossington Avenue, MISFITSTUDIO is the perfect place for health conscious Torontonians to re-centre, balance and move. Simply load up the gift card and wrap for a great holiday gift!

Deck the halls this season VdeV Maison's favourite holiday home accessories and gifts

Wool throw made by Latvia - 178.00$

Get snuggled up by the fire this holiday season with this stunning wool throw. Made with 100% lambswool, this cozy piece comes in red, black and grey.

Dimensions: W:79" X H:51" (W:201cm X H:130cm)

Alpine Candle - $28.00 

Nothing says the holidays like the perfect candle. This soy wax candle comes in a variety of

festive colours and scents. The green Alpine Candle smells of festive evergreen and embers. The indigo Alpine Candle smells of the sea, with a driftwood and indigo. For the man in your life, The brow Alpine Candle has the smell of tabacco and moss. Finally, the white Alpine Candle smells of sweet woods and mint.

Dimensions: H:3" X Ø:3.5" (H:8cm X Ø:9cm)

Fox bar glass - $12.00 

Love to serve spirited holiday drinks? VdeV Maison has the perfect bar glasses for you. These quirky glasses boast a lovely gold rim and a decorative painting of a fox, sun, moon or pineapple. Which one will you choose?

Dimensions: H:5" (H:13cm)

Cinema Lamp - $60.00 

Have fun this holiday season with VdeV Maison's Cinema Lamp. With 100 interchangable letters, you can select a festive, joyful message to illuminate your home. The Cinema lamp has Battery-powered LED or USB cable included, powered by an on/ff switch. The lamp requires 6 AA batteries or USB plug adaptor (not included).

Dimensions: W:12" X H:8.5" X D:2" (W:30cm X H:22cm X D:5cm)

Cindy Necklace - $24.00 

Add some sparkle to your holiday outfit this season with VdeV Maison's stunning Cindy Necklace. Available in three colours, gold, silver and copper, this lovely piece makes for the perfect gift for a lovely lady.

Dimensions: W:17" (W:43cm)

About: Province Apothecary is a holistic skincare and wellness brand recognized both for it’s effective natural skincare products and custom organic facials. PA is leading the way in green beauty with a unique blend of 100% active plant based, synthetic-free ingredients, establishing itself as a brand focused on a whole-body approach to beauty.

Owner and founder Julie Clark's journey into natural skincare developed out of her own struggles with allergies and eczema. Unable to find products that were pure and effective enough to heal her sensitive skin, she began blending her own. Now an accredited Holistic Health Practitioner and Aromatherapist, Julie continues to develop new products drawing inspiration from her facial clients, the weather and the seasons.

Province Apothecary sources the highest quality organic, wildcrafted ingredients from each Canadian Province and hand-blends these ingredients in small batches to create skincare that will nourish + balance skin. Julie’s favorite ingredients include: seaweed from Nova Scotia, maple syrup from Quebec, organic sunflower oil from Ontario, organic beeswax from Alberta, organic lentil flour from Manitoba, and organic raspberry oil and glacial clay from British Columbia. PA is blending the wilds of Canada into nourishing and balancing skincare.

All products are free from: petroleum, parabens, synthetic fragrances and ingredients, endocrine disruptors, carcinogens, dyes, alcohol, solvents, pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), palm oil or derivatives, cosmetic grade ingredients and toxins of any kind.

Stockists: 50 Canadian +  USA retailers including Urban Outfitters, Whole Foods Market, The Detox Market, Well.ca and Credo Beauty.   All products can be ordered online both in Canada and the US - and can shipped nationally.

Visibility: Province Apothecary PA has been featured internationally in print and online by Vogue, Huffington Post, InStyle.com, Garance Doré, Wallpaper, Cool Hunting, Protein, Refinery 29, and Our Body Book.  In addition, a number of Canadian publications including: Fashion, En Route Magazine, Chatelaine, Flare, Elle Canada, Today’s Parent, Toronto Life, Globe and Mail, and The Toronto Star.

Wait times down in emergency, but still long for some patients

Population growth and aging strain capacity of Ontario's emergency departments

TORONTO, Nov. 15, 2016 /CNW/ - People are seeing doctors more quickly when they arrive in Ontario's emergency departments (EDs) and overall their visits are shorter. This is despite an ever-increasing flow of patients who are becoming collectively older and sicker.   Most Ontario residents are also satisfied with the care they receive in emergency.

But emergency departments are under a great deal of pressure. While progress has been made in overall performance, an emergency department could be strained by a bad flu season, or if a hospital nearby has to temporarily close its emergency department.

Those are the findings of Under Pressure: Emergency Department Performance in Ontario, a report released today by Health Quality Ontario, the provincial advisor on health care quality.

The good news includes a 10% drop over the last seven years in the maximum amount of time nine out of 10 patients spent in the ED – to 7.8 hours from 8.7 hours. There was also more than a 16% decrease in the maximum amount of time nine out of 10 patients waited in the emergency department to see a doctor ­– to 3 hours from 3.6.

However, the data also show that urban residents spend longer in the emergency department and wait longer to see a doctor in emergency than people living in rural areas. As well, many of the sickest patients in the province – those who need to be admitted to hospital – have to wait a long time in the emergency department for a bed in an inpatient ward. This is often because patients who should be receiving more appropriate care in other settings such as long term care remain in hospital. This is called alternate level of care and can impact the ability of hospital to move patients from the EDs to an inpatient ward.

"Patients may spend hours and sometimes even days lying on stretchers in emergency examination rooms or hallways," said Dr. Joshua Tepper, President and CEO of Health Quality Ontario.

Overcrowding can lead to poor quality of care, increased distress, illness and mortality among patients, and increased risk of medical errors by overworked staff. Under Pressure finds these stressors and others are likely to continue to affect emergency departments for many years to come as the province's population both grows in size and ages overall.

The report shows growth in emergency department visits is outpacing population growth. Over the past seven years, the number of annual visits to Ontario's emergency departments increased 13.4% – more than double the 6.2% increase in the province's population.

Patients are also sicker overall. Visits by more seriously ill or "high-acuity" patients who were not admitted to hospital increased by 44.1%, and visits by patients who were admitted rose 17.5%.

Some of this increase in patient acuity can be attributed to a rise in visits by older patients, who tend to require more complex care. There was a 29.1% increase in visits by people aged 65 and over.

The report also outlines some of the programs and strategies that have been implemented to relieve the pressure on emergency departments in the province. These include the Emergency Room Wait Time Strategylaunched in 2008, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care's Patients First action plan, and Health Quality Ontario's Emergency Department Return Visit Quality Program.

"Even with the demographic challenges the province is facing, the concerted efforts made by government, hospitals and others to improve the performance of Ontario's emergency departments have brought many positive changes," said Dr. Tepper. "But it's clear that much work still needs to be done to make emergency departments work better for all patients."

OTHER KEY REPORT FINDINGS:

More emergency visits are meeting overall provincial targets for length of stay and wait to see a doctor. Between 2008/09 and 2014/15:

• The proportion of visits completed within the four-hour target for non-admitted low-acuity patients increased to 89.9% from 84.6%, and the proportion of visits completed within the eight-hour target for high-acuity patients and admitted patients taken together as a group rose to 85.7% from 79.8%

The majority of people in Ontario appear to be satisfied with the emergency care they receive. In a 2014/15 patient experience survey:

• 72.6% of respondents reported receiving excellent, very good or good care, with the other 27.4% rating their care as fair or poor

Some admitted patients spend a long time in emergency. In 2014/15:

• The maximum amount of time nine out of 10 admitted patients spent in emergency – was 29.4 hours

Some patients who are more seriously ill wait longer to see a doctor than less seriously ill patients. In 2014/15:

• The maximum amount of time nine out 10 patients waited in emergency to see a doctor was 3.1 hours for admitted patients and 3.2 hours for high-acuity discharged patients, compared to 2.7 hours for low-acuity discharged patients

Urban residents spend more time in emergency and wait longer to see a doctor. In 2014/15:

• The maximum amount of time nine out of 10 urban residents spent in emergency was 8.3 hours, compared to 5.6 hours for rural residents
• The maximum amount of time nine out of 10 urban residents waited in emergency to see a doctor was 3.1 hours overall for all acuity levels, and 2.6 hours for rural residents

Many patients visit the emergency department for less serious health issues. In 2013:

• 47% of adult Ontarians reported going to emergency for a condition they thought could have been treated by their primary care provider, if that doctor, nurse practitioner or other provider had been available. This rate was higher for Ontario than for its socioeconomically similar international counterparts, with Switzerland coming in at 36% and France lowest at 24%.

To read the full report visit, www.hqontario.ca/underpressure

About Health Quality Ontario

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.

CONTOUR® NEXT and Max Domi Scoring for Diabetes

Partners team up to mark Diabetes Awareness Month and raise money for JDRF

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Nov. 9, 2016 /CNW/ - Ascensia Diabetes Care Canada Inc. ("Ascensia") and CONTOUR^® NEXT are teaming up with professional hockey player Max Domi to "SCORE for Diabetes" during Diabetes Awareness Month.  Throughout the month of November, for every point scored by Domi, Ascensia will donate $1,000.00¹ to JDRF, the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research.

"Getting support from my team is a huge part of how I manage my diabetes on and off the ice," says Domi. "Every single goal I score is special. This month I get to celebrate the two things I am most passionate about, diabetes and hockey, every time the puck crosses the goal line."

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, a celebration focused on raising awareness for all forms of diabetes, its signs and symptoms, and gaining support for critical research toward preventing, better treating and curing all forms of the disease.²

"Lives are changed by raising awareness and funding research towards finding a cure for T1D and its complications," says Dave Prowten, President and CEO, JDRF Canada. "We are thrilled to be working with Ascensia and Max Domi to raise money throughout National Diabetes Awareness Month, and look forward to getting some goals in the net."

As the team progresses throughout November, the action can be followed off the ice through social media @Contour_diabetes and #scorefordiabetes.

Through their ongoing partnership, Max and Ascensia have also introduced CONTOUR^® NEXT's Powered by Accuracy 16 Reasons Contest to continue to educate all Canadians about diabetes.  Fans can also go to poweredbyaccuracy.ca and enter 16 reasons why they deserve to see Max play live. Fans can enter for a chance to win the grand prize of a trip for four to Edmonton, Alberta to attend the January 16, 2017 game.³

"As a company, we are dedicated to improving the health and lives of people with diabetes, and understand the vital role played by further scientific research and increased public awareness," says Russ Newsome, Region Head of North America, Ascensia. "We are thrilled to be working with all of these partners to not only raise money for the JDRF in Canada, but also to celebrate the power of the team that supports diabetes management."

For more information on how you can get involved and help raise awareness for diabetes in your community, please contact your local JDRF office.  Help JDRF continue to raise awareness about and fund type 1 diabetes research http://www.jdrf.ca/T1DLooksLikeMe/.

About Ascensia Diabetes Care
Ascensia Diabetes Care is a global specialist diabetes care company, dedicated to helping people living with diabetes. Our mission is to empower people living with diabetes through innovative solutions that simplify and improve their lives. We use our innovation and specialist expertise in diabetes to develop high quality solutions and tools that make a positive, daily difference for people with diabetes.

Home to the world renowned CONTOUR^TM portfolio of blood glucose monitoring systems, our products combine advanced technology with user-friendly functionality that help people with diabetes to manage their condition. We are committed to continued research, innovation and development of new products and solutions. As a trusted partner in the diabetes community, we collaborate closely with healthcare professionals and other partners to ensure our products meet the highest standards of accuracy, precision and reliability, and that we conduct our business compliantly and with integrity.

Ascensia Diabetes Care was established in 2016 through the sale of Bayer Diabetes Care to Panasonic Healthcare Holdings Co., Ltd. Ascensia Diabetes Care products are sold in more than 125 countries. Following the close of the transaction in all countries, Ascensia Diabetes Care will have around 1,700 employees and operations in 38 countries.

For further information please visit the Ascensia Diabetes Care website at: http://www.ascensiadiabetes.ca/en/home/.

CONTOUR™ is a registered trademark of Ascensia Diabetes Care Holdings AG.

¹ Up to a maximum of $30,000.00
² http://www.jdrf.ca/t1dlookslikeme/
³ NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of Canada who have reached the age of majority as of the date of entry. Enter by completing all required fields in Contest entry form on www.poweredbyaccuracy.ca. Limit one entry per person. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received.

SOURCE Ascensia Diabetes Care

Life Financial and Toronto Rehab Foundation to make an exciting announcement improving wellness around the globe through innovative diabetes prevention and management program

TORONTO, Nov. 9, 2016 /CNW/ - Sun Life Financial and the Toronto Rehab Foundation will be making an exciting donation and announcement about improving wellness around the globe through better diabetes prevention and management. This innovative program will extend diabetes care beyond hospital walls and empower individuals living with the disease to take control of their health, regardless of barriers such as geography, financial constraints and language. Hockey Hall of Famer Darryl Sittler and former NHL player Brandon (BJ) Crombeen will be on-hand to help launch this exciting new initiative.

Space is limited - members of the media are requested to RSVP to Alessandra Nigro at alessandra.nigro@sunlife.com. 

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 Toronto Rehabilitation Institute
As the world-leading rehabilitation research centre, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute is revolutionizing rehabilitation by helping people overcome the challenges of disabling injury, illness or age related health conditions to live active, healthier, more independent lives. It integrates innovative patient care, ground breaking research and diverse education to build healthier communities and advance the role of rehabilitation in the health system.  Toronto Rehab, along with Toronto General and Toronto Western Hospitals, the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and The Michener Institute for Education at UHN is a member of the University Health Network and is affiliated with the University of Toronto. www.uhn.ca.

Toronto Rehab Foundation raises funds for Toronto Rehabilitation Institute. www.torontorehabfoundation.com.

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 21^st 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)

DRESS:            Smart Casual

CONTACT:        eattothebeat@cbcf.org or call 1 (800) 387-9816

FACEBOOK:     www.facebook.com/cbcf.ettb

TWITTER:          @EattotheBeat_TO

HASHTAG:        #EattotheBeat

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

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!

GO SUBSCRIBE NOW

www.youtube.com/trainitright

CANADIAN LIFESTYLE AND FITNESS BRAND, SPINCO, EXCITED TO INTRODUCE THEIR ONE-OF-A-KIND CYCLING EXPERIENCE TO TORONTO

The Kelowna-based brand expands this September with their second Canadian location 

PINCO is thrilled to announce that Toronto will soon be able to experience their rejuvenating, full-body, 50-minute spin class beginning September 30, 2016. The lifestyle and fitness brands second Canadian studio will be located in the Forest Hill neighborhood of Toronto at 2577 Yonge Street, just south of Eglinton Road.

SPINCO’s rhythm-based workout is a high-energy and structured experience designed for both men and women of all fitness levels. Lead by enthusiastic and inspiring instructors, each SPINCO class is set to a carefully curated musical playlist to motivate and energize the room. “The idea is that everyone works as a team moving together to the music to engage the leg, core and arm muscles and to re-energize the mind,” says Founder and CEO of SPINCO, Michelle August.

The SPINCO lifestyle is founded on positive values, evident in the brand’s commitment to giving back to the community by partnering with local charities and showcasing neighboring businesses. For the Toronto-launch, SPINCO has partnered with Peace Collective (PC) to design a stylish collection of workout wear to be sold at the new studio. A portion of proceeds from all PC x SPINCO clothing sales will be donated to a ‘Boys and Girls Club’ in communities across Canada, giving children access to weekly recreational sports and activities.

“Fitness is a necessity to everyday life at any age,” says August, “and the SPINCO lifestyle is deeply-rooted in the notion that physical activity feeds the mind and replenishes the soul. We think of this as the SPINCO mindset, and when this mindset is intertwined with the community, we all become agents of social change and a force for good.” SPINCO will host their by-donation, ‘spin-it-forward’ class nation-wide every Monday evening for non-members and members alike, with 100% of proceeds being donated to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada.

To help re-energize the body in between classes, SPINCO will offer a variety of healthy snacks thoughtfully curated by the culinary team at Chase Hospitality Group. SPINCO has also partnered with Lululemon for a series of events and collaborations scheduled to take place over the next year.

Once opened, SPINCO will offer four to six spin classes daily within their spacious 50-person studio furnished with top of the line stationary bicycles and equipment.  A variety of class pack options ranging from $25 to $850 will be available for purchase, and every first class is complimentary. Class sign-up can be facilitated online or through SPINCO’s user-friendly mobile app.

ABOUT SPINCO

SPINCO is a one-of-a-kind fitness and lifestyle brand that launched in Kelowna, BC in 2014 offering structured, full-body, 50-minute spin classes designed to energize your mind and feed your soul. Lead by dedicated and inspiring instructors, the goal of the class is to work together as one team, one bike, by moving in unison to the music to engage your butt, core and arms. SPINCO’s workouts are made to inspire. Wherever you are starting from, we will motivate you to achieve higher levels of your own personal well-being and physical strength. The SPINCO mindset is founded on community, and SPINCO is committed to partnering with local charities and showcasing neighboring businesses.

SPINCO is a lifestyle. SPINCO is an experience. SPINCO is a state of mind.

Social handle: @SPINCOToronto

Website: SPINCO.ca

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PR CONTACT:

Tori Piccin | PR Account Manager | tori@deckagency.com