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Health Tip of the Month - Archived

Health Tip of the Month - Christmas Season

The following 10 Tips are taken from the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) website.

Many people feel sad, depressed and lonely at this time of year. Here are 10 Tips for Mental Health.

10 Tips for Mental Health

1. Build Confidence
Identify your abilities and weaknesses together, accept them build on them and do the best with what you have.

2. Eat right, Keep fit
A balanced diet, exercise and rest can help you to reduce stress and enjoy life.

3. Make Time for Family and Friends
These relationships need to be nurtured; if taken for granted they will not be there to share life's joys and sorrows.

4. Give and Accept Support
Friends and family relationships thrive when they are "put to the test".

5. Create a Meaningful Budget
Financial problems cause stress. Over-spending on our "wants" instead of our "needs" is often the culprit.

6. Volunteer
Being involved in community gives a sense of purpose and satisfaction that paid work cannot.

7. Manage Stress
We all have stressors in our lives but learning how to deal with them when they threaten to overwhelm us will maintain our mental health.

8. Find Strength in Numbers
Sharing a problem with others who have had similar experiences may help you find a solution and will make you feel less isolated.

9. Identify and Deal with Moods
We all need to find safe and constructive ways to express our feelings of anger, sadness, joy and fear.

10. Learn to Be at Peace with Yourself
Get to know who you are, what makes you really happy, and learn to balance what you can and cannot change about yourself.

This site provides general information only and may or may not reflect the position of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). Information provided is not a substitute for professional advice. If you feel that you may need medical advice, please consult a qualified health care professional. CMHA makes every reasonable effort to ensure that the information is accurate at the time of posting. We cannot guarantee the reliability of any information posted.

December 2011

The thyroid is a small gland, measuring about 2 inches across. It lies just under the skin below the Adam's apple in the neck and produces thyroid hormone that is used by almost every tissue in the body. It controls such things as body temperature, energy level, protein metabolism, metabolic rate, digestion, and how your body burns fat. It even affects how efficiently your brain thinks. In fact, if your thyroid slows down, you slow down. Low thyroid means slower healing, slower immune response, and delays in red blood cell formation. Low thyroid function also results in longer time taken for your body to absorb nutrients. Low thyroid means you will age faster, create more disease and suffering.

Supplements that are beneficial for the thyroid are: Kelp (Bladderwrack), Coleus Forskolii, Hops, and Selenium, and B vitamins. We also have natural combinations of essential nutrients proven to support proper hormone balance (ThyroSense by Lorna Vanderhaeghe & Thyro-100 by Aor and a new product from Naka called Tristar Thyroid.

Iodized salt is the worst thing to use if you want to keep your thyroid healthy. Even though the gland needs iodine, too much of a good thing can be a problem. Instead, use sea salt, which has a nice balance of minerals that will help support your body. Our most popular Sea Salt is Nature's Cargo which is natural, unprocessed, preservative and additive free, and is harvested from the most pristine coastal areas of Central America. It also contains more trace minerals so use it for all your cooking and seasoning needs to enrich the taste of your foods while adding vital nutrients to your diet.

June 2011

If you have ever tried to diet to lose weight you probably know how frustrating and stressful it can be when you weigh yourself and the scale isn’t going the way you want it. There is hope with all kinds of great products available at Old Fashion Foods to aid you in your weight loss quest.

Many of our suppliers have great products available to aid in weight loss for all types and needs.

Natural Factors has 2 products that have been available for quite some time. PGX is a product that contains fibre to help keep you feeling full. It helps control your appetite, food cravings and it helps to balance blood sugar. SlimStyles is a meal replacement drink and it contains PGX.

Renew Life has products that help to turn your body into a fat burning machine. DietStart is a 14 day, 2 part kit that will accelerate your weightloss.

Brad King has many products available to burn calories,block starch & fat. Ultimate Lean Energy enhances your metabolic rate, moves fat away from storage to become a primary fuel source and ultimately lose fat instead of valuable muscle tissue

As seen on Dr. Oz, White Kidney Bean Extract contains phaseolamin that has been clinically shown in 13 studies to delay the digestion and absorption of starch calories. In Canada it can be found in a variety of supplements including Brad King’s Ultimate Fat & Starch Blocker, NOW Phase 2 and Preferred Nutrition Body Sense Fat & Carb Blocker.

As with anything, do not start a diet or take any products without checking with your doctor first.

Old Fashion Foods is not endorsing any one product, just giving the reader some examples to help them become more informed and knowledgeable in their quest to lose weight.

Stop in at any of our 6 locations and talk with our knowledgeable staff.

April 2011

Food Sources High in Calcium and Vitamin D The best way to get Calcium is to eat foods high in CALCIUM
Milk *Cheese *Yogurt *Spinach *Collards *Kale * Soybeans
*Okra * Sardines * Rainbow Trout *Salmon **White Beans
And calcium fortified foods like orange juice, cereals and oatmeal.
Vitamin D is harder to get from foods. Some foods that provide it are:
*Beef * Liver *Egg Yolks * Fatty Fish like salmon, Tuna and Mackerel *Cheese
And some foods that are fortified with Vitamin D like orange juice, some dairy products and cereal
And soy milk.
Your body can naturally produce Vitamin D by being in sunlight.
Besides keeping bones strong, calcium and Vitamin D do many other things to keep our bodies healthy.
Calcium is involved with hormones and blood flow.
It helps maintain muscle function and heart rhythms.
Many experts say Vitamin D helps in building strong bones , keeps muscles strong and helps with Immune function.
Old Fashion Foods carries supplements that provide an excellent way to get your calcium, magnesium and Vitamin D.
We have many different options available to choose from, tablets, capsules, liquid and powders.

May 2010

Most of us are aware of the benefits of healthy eating, taking supplements, and getting proper exercise and rest. However, a part of our body that is often ignored when it comes to our health is the largest organ of our body - our skin!

We absorb many unwanted chemicals in the products we put on our skin. An interesting experiment which proves the power of our skin to absorb chemicals is this: Try taking out a couple of cloves of raw, crushed garlic cloves. Now, as silly as this may sound, stand on each clove with your bare feet. It shouldn't take more than 1/2 an hour, after you've stood on the garlic for 5-10 minutes, that you will notice that you will be able to detect the garlic on your breath. This obviously means that the soles of your feet absorbed the compounds from the garlic and transferred them throughout your body, rather quickly. Quite an amazing fact, when you think about it.

Buying all-natural cosmetics is a smart alternative to many traditional products which have unwanted and unhealthy chemicals. It will help you to limit your exposure to a wise array of chemicals often found in mainstream cosmetics.

Below is a list of just some of the most common chemicals found in many products:

Propylene Glycol - is a wetting agent and solvent used in make up, hair care products, deodorants, after shave and is often found in toothpaste. Its also the main ingredient in antifreeze and brake fluid.

Polyethylene Glycol - A related agent found in most skin cleansers, is a caustic used to dissolve grease... the same substance you find in oven cleaners.

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS)- Used in toothpastes, shampoos and just about every personal cleansing product on the market.

SLS is also a harsh detergent commonly used as an engine degreaser and garage floor cleaner.

Used in bubble bath, shampoos, moisturising lotions and many cosmetics as an inhibiting agent against carcinogenic nitrosamine production. Yet this chemical is a known carcinogen in it's own right!

A few more:

Chemical Found In
BHA (butyl hydroxy anisole)• Many cosmetics
Coal Tar Dyes • Hair dyes
Formaldehyde • Nail treatments
Petroleum Distillates • Mascara • Perfume • Foundation • Lipstick
Parabens (ex. methylparaben,propylparaben) • Many cosmetics
Phthalates (ex. (dibutyl phthalate; DBP, dibutyl ester; Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate; DEHP)) • Nail polish • Nail treatments • Fragrances • Perfumes
Synthetic Musks • Fragrances • Cosmetics
Selenium Sulfide • Shampoo
Toluene • Nail polish • Nail treatments

Most people are quite shocked to find that these chemicals are as prevalent as they are in cosmetics and toiletries. You can see why reading the labels on these products is a habit that we should all get into!

April 2010

Well, spring has sprung, and along with spring cleaning at home, detoxifying and cleansing our body should not be neglected. In addition to eating a healthy diet, juicing, and exercise, there are many supplements that can assist in detoxifying and cleansing your body. To begin with, it is best to focus on the Kidney, Liver, and Colon, as these are the primary elimination organs in the body. Milk Thistle, Dandelion Root, Artichoke and Turmeric are are excellent herbs to help cleanse the Liver. For the Kidneys, herbs such as Parsley, Stinging Nettle, White Kidney Bean, and Buchu have all shown to be beneficial in kidney cleansing. Cranberry juice or extract can also be added as well. For a good Colon cleanse, Oat Bran, Flax, Rhubarb, Cinnamon, Fennel, and FOS are some of the best.

The following is an extensive list of herbs that have proven to be useful in cleansing and detoxifying the body:

We also have many cleansing kits that combine everything you need to cleanse and detoxify the 7 channels of elimination throughout the body (liver, colon, kidneys, blood, skin, lungs, and lymphatic system). When all of your organs of elimination are working efficiently, you are better able to deal with your day to day exposure to toxins.

Poor digestive health and high toxic load affect the overall health of many people and are the underlying cause of many serious health conditions. To achieve the full benefits of cleansing and detoxification, it is recommended you perform a 30 day cleanse 2 to 3 times per year. Come into one of our locations today and ask our staff about which cleanse is right for you.

February 2010

As with many health conditions, there are several natural options available to deal with low libido and sexual problems for both men and women. Rather than turn immediately to the quick pharmaceutical fixes, such as Viagra and Cialis, natural remedies offer another effective way to combat this problem.
  Some herbs that have shown to be useful are listed below:

Horny Goat Weed - Known to restore " sexual fire, " it combats fatigue, boost erectile function and alleviate menopausal discomfort.
Maca - Native to Peru, this herb was touted by the Inca people for fertility problems, sterility, and other sexual disorders. It has also been shown in clinical studies to enhance libido in both men and women, and improves physical stamina.
Ginkgo Biloba - This well known herb is not only good for the brain, but because of its ability to increase circulation, it can benefit the sexual organs as well..
Tribulus Terrestris - Many studies have confirmed this herbs ability to increase sexual performance and stamina..

A few of our top selling products:

Resurrexx is an excellent alternative for men, as it provides an relatively quick libido boost when that is what's called for. It contains a unique blend of herbs that with sexual stamina and vigor. For best results, take 2 capsules with warm water 40 minutes before an intimate encounter.

Eroxil ( For Men ) & Erosyn ( For Women )

For men, the major problem is sexual performance. For women, it’s desire. For years, women have searched the market place for a product that can enhance their libido and increase their overall interest in sex to no avail. Most men and women are surprised that Eroxil and Erosyn not only increase youthful performance and libido, they basically increase energy, improve muscle tone and youthful strength, thus putting more zest in your life all day and every day. Many men wrote that they take Eroxil mainly for improving their middle age (andropausal) years or Erosyn for women to improve their menopausal years, which all men and women go through starting at about 40.

SexEssentials

The nutrients found in SexEssentials help bring back desire, aid orgasm and improve lubrication while also providing overall strength and wellbeing. SexEssentials prosexual nutrients are designed for women who want the zest back in their sex life.

You can find these and other similar products at all our locations. Come on down and see what we have, and feel free to ask our helpful staff anything you would like to know!


December 2009

By now we've all heard about the H1N1 flu and it's awful, sometimes even deadly effects. Keeping your immune system up and at its best has probably never been more important. As bacteria and viruses keep mutating, the best possible thing we can do to keep healthy is to get adequate rest, manage our stress, and keep our immune system strong and at its peak. It's always a safe bet to stick with some of the more well known herbs and supplements. There is a reason why they have the reputation that they do.

A few of our favourites are:

In addition, Vitamin D and Oregon Grape Root have gained recognition over the past few years. They have both proven to be helpful in the battle against colds and the flu. We also have many immune-boosting formula's to help protect yourself & your family.

Check with our helpful staff at any of our locations for information on these supplements. They welcome your questions, and will do their best to help you with all your health needs.

October 2009

Located on top of your kidneys are two small walnut sized glands, known as your adrenal glands. These glands can have a profound effect on your overall health if they are not functioning optimally. It can generally be said that the poorer your adrenal glands are functioning, the more stress will be placed on many organs of your body. This can then lead to a plethora of illnesses throughout the body.
What are the main causes of adrenal stress? The following have been shown to contribute to adrenal stress:
  • Poor Diet
  • Substance Abuse
  • Bad sleeping habits
  • Major life stress, such as death of a loved one or divorce
  • Chronic Illness
  • Overwork
Symptoms of poor adrenal function:
  • Sleep disturbance
  • Insomnia
  • Feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope
  • Craving salty and/or sweet foods
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Low stamina and slow to recover from exercise
  • Slow to recover from injury or illness
  • Difficulty concentrating, brain fog
  • Poor digestion
  • Irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS )
  • Low immune function
  • Menopause-like symptoms
  • Low blood pressure
  • Sensitivity to cold
  • Allergies
  • Frequent influenza
  • Low libido, sexual drive or interest
The following herbs have proven to be helpful in restoring function of the adrenals: Ashwaganda : This herb is known as an “adaptogen,” and has been shown to be beneficial in reducing inflammation, treating tumors, decreasing stress, increasing mental activity, decreasing anxiety, and invigorating the body.
Blue Vervain : Used to relieve fatigue, leaving the body rejuvenated and energized.
Borage : An anti-depressant, strengthens adrenal glands and aids with removing stress, mental exhaustion and depression.
Licorice : Is an adaptogen, helps to reduce stress on the body, has anti-viral properties, and is known to be an adrenal restorative.
Avena Sativa (Milky Oat) : Nerve restorative, promotes good sleep, remedies sexual weakness including impotence.. This herb is also an effective remedy for children with ADHD, and has anti-depressant anti-anxiety qualities.
Siberian Ginseng : Ginseng has long been used in China for its adaptogenic properties. It is excellent for helping deal with stress, is an adrenal hormone stimulant, aphrodisiac, and a tonic for the immune system.
Thyro-Sense : A combination formula by Lorna Vanderhaeghe that supports optimal thyroid health while improving energy & metabolism. Also improves conversion of T4 to T3, supports proper hormone balance & improves sensitivity to temperature. This formula contains Ashwagandha, Guggal, Pantothenic Acid, Copper, Manganese & Iodine.

September 2009

Dealing with stress in our daily lives has become something that we're all used to by now. Unfortunately, our bodies are not used to dealing with ongoing stress. The following herbs have been shown to help our bodies adapt to stress:
Ginseng: used in Chinese medicine for centuries, Ginseng is probably the best known of all the adaptogenic herbs. Adaptogens help our bodies to "adapt" to stress.
Chamomile: a soothing tonic used in teas and herbal baths, chamomile has tranquilizing effects (like Valium) and reduces stress chemicals in the brain.
Ginkgo Biloba : one of the oldest medicinal herbs, ginkgo increases oxygen to the brain promoting feelings of well-being and reducing stress and anxiety.
Passion Flower : a natural sedative that also has a calming effect. It can help treat general anxiety and restlessness.
Ashwagandha: also known as "Indian Ginseng, " this herb is known as an adaptogen as well. It is said to also help the body to stay free of disease. 
Rhodiola : also called roseroot, Rhodiola has anti-stress properties as well as anti-anxiety capabilities.

June 2009

If you're like many people whom keep up on nutrition and health information, you may have heard about Vitamin D recently.
Few, if any other health supplement have received as much attention over the last couple of years.
Also called "The Sunshine Vitamin," it has been shown to help with the following conditions:
  • Bone loss
  • respiratory infections
  • certain cancers
  • depression
  • chronic pain,
  • cardiovascular disease
  • and even MS.
The body produces vitamin D when exposed to the rays of the sun, but most people still need a supplement—between 800 to 1,000 IU daily—to reach recommended levels.
Vitamin D can also be consumed through supplements and food intake. Natural food sources of vitamin D include salmon, sardines, cod liver oil, and vitamin D-fortified foods including milk and some cereals.