March @ Oaktree: Toxicity Explored 🍀

Subject: March @ Oaktree: Toxicity Explored 🍀

March is Toxicity Month @ Oaktree :)

By Martin Perras, Downtown Acupuncturist

Detox has always been a hot topic in health. We know that we live in a world full of toxins. Many of our products are full of chemicals and toxins and even our air isn’t as clean as it should be.

Despite the fact that it can get complicated, when it comes to our take on detox, we believe in a “Keep It Simple” approach.

Before you attempt a wild detox protocol: Are you doing the basics? Are you getting some fresh air and spending time in nature? Are you making good nutritional choices? Are you moving to a point that you are getting a sweat on? Are you drinking filtered water regularly?

As you might consider doing a detox to reset things, may we suggest you look at the basics first. Once, you have a good handle, then it makes sense to get fancier and start stacking other detox tools. Your body is designed to detox through breathing, liver functions, sweating, bowel movements and urination. If you struggle with any of these normal body functions, chiropractic and acupuncture can assist in these areas.

Toxin Release

By Dr. Veronica Brynaert, Orleans Chiropractor

“Is it normal to feel sore, achy, or have a headache after an adjustment?”

Does this sound like you post-adjustment? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many of our patients ask and experience similar things, and here’s why:

Toxic release can occur with an adjustment of the spine or pelvis, allowing tissues to release pressure in and around those areas. This pressure can cause toxins in those tissues into the bloodstream and out of your body through your lymphatic system.

We absorb harmful toxins from our environment daily without even realizing it. These toxins are in the food we eat, the cosmetics we use, and even the clothes we wear. They are also prevalent in the air around us and in the water we drink.

When the nervous system is blocked, it can cause a buildup of energy in the body, manifesting as physical and mental symptoms.

The most common symptoms of the toxic release include:

· Brain fog

· Coughing or sneezing fits (especially after sleeping)

· Cold or flu-like symptoms

· Diarrhea

· Fatigue

· Fever

· Headaches

· Muscle soreness and spasms

· Nausea

· Sweating at night or during exercise

You can generally expect to experience a reduction in your symptoms within 24 hours of your adjustment. Many people notice that their pain decreases significantly after a chiropractic adjustment over the first day or two.

The best thing you can do to help in your recovery is:

· Get plenty of rest

· Drink plenty of fluids

· Avoid caffeine and alcohol during your recovery period

· Eat healthily

· Get moving

· Stretch

If you’re ever unsure of something during or post-adjustment, ask us! Chiropractic adjustments can be a great way to get back on track and feel good again. If you’ve been experiencing any physical discomfort or pain, we’d love to help you determine whether chiropractic care might be a good fit for you.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages

By Veronique Savoie, Orleans and Downtown Acupuncturist

Hello to all the Oaktree family,

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Veronique and I am the Acupuncturist at the Orleans locations (and part-time at Lisgar as well). I have worked in bars and restaurants for over 20 years, have studied wine and curated wine lists at multiple restaurants, attended international cocktail conventions, and trained numerous bartenders throughout my career.

Though wine and cocktails was a big part of my life, and still is, leading a healthy life has more recently become a focus and passion. For years now, the trend in non-alcoholic drinks has been on the rise, and due to its increased demand, the quality has improved as well.

Whether you did dry January or February (yes the shortest month of the year) and are hoping to keep this dry train going, or are simply looking for some non-alcoholic substitutes to mimic your favorite libations, the following are things to keep in mind.

Firstly I must note that just because it’s non-alcoholic doesn’t mean it’s healthier. Lots of mocktails use simple syrups or other sugary ingredients and in moderation this is ok. But a drink can quickly become a sweet mess if you’re not aware.

Secondly, do not think that the NA alternatives will taste the same. Though they’ve come a long way, there are limitations to achieving the same flavor as your favorite wine or spirit.

Thirdly, just because it’s non-alcoholic doesn’t mean it is less expensive. This is a common misconception and not sure why we would think this. Alcohol does not mean better, and therefore does not equate to more expensive.

There will be some trial and error. There are a lot of articles out there with recipe suggestions. For beer, I must admit NA Erdinger and Corona are my top zero percent beers. Many grocery stores carry an array of options, and websites such as well.ca also have some fun sour and stout options as well. For non-alcoholic wine, to be honest, as a sommelier I have been disappointed on numerous occasions. Proxies are probably the best known options and I must say many are quite good. They are on the lighter side, but can satisfy your taste buds if you are looking for something fresh, but also deep in flavor. One of my favorites that I’ve tried is Gruvi non-alcoholic bubbly rose. Pour it in a flute and you’ll be cheersing to yourself and life.

Speaking of flute, use “proper” glassware and garnish any mocktails when possible. Drinking is both physical and psychological. If you hold a mocktail in a simple glass with just ice you will not have the same positive effect as if it were in a cute stemmed glass with fruit and edible flowers. The weight of the glass, the way it looks and smells, the act of swirling in the bowl, these are all a part of drinking that might trick the mind into thinking it’s the real thing. Or at the very least it’s more fun. It’s like going to the gym in an outfit that makes you feel good versus just throwing on an ill fitting shirt and shorts. You’re more likely to enjoy it if it looks good!

On that note, dopamine is the “feel good” neurotransmitter release when one consumes alcohol. But studies now show that it is also released when drinking non-alcoholic options (perhaps due to the physical act, or perhaps due to the similar flavor and your taste buds memory).

We are all social beings and often drinking is linked to going out and creating interpersonal connections. Oddly enough alcohol can affect social situations in a negative way. Consuming non-alcoholic alternatives can lead to the same joy of being with friends, and better yet you will be more level headed and connected while having those conversations and allow you to actively listen to others.

So a few takeaways:

-Have fun with glassware: I often find my favorites at thrift stores.

-Purchase a few fun bitters and check out some local Ottawa shops that have a great selection of products: Split Tree, Lollo, Corner Peach Store and Knyota.

-Mocktails do not need to be boring: many top restaurants and bars now offer well curated options so try those for inspiration.

-Stay open minded and cheers to trying something new!

CLINIC CLOSURES

All clinics are closed March 29th for Good Friday

That's all for closures! Reminder to move your clocks forward 1 hour on March 10th for Daylight Savings Time!

POSTPARTUM REHAB AT STITTSVILLE:

Marching into Awareness: An Exploration of Toxicity

By: Dr. Vanessa Jalbert-Caputo, Downtown Chiropractor

As March unfolds, we embrace a season of renewal and growth. This newsletter is dedicated to unraveling the layers of toxicity – understanding its manifestations, acknowledging its impact, and, most importantly, cultivating a culture of conscious living. The prevalence of toxicity in today’s world is a pressing concern that affects us as individuals and our overall health. Toxicity can manifest in various forms, such as the water we drink, food we eat, what we put on our skin having an impact our mental, emotional and physical well-being.

This subject holds a personal resonance for me, as the past year has been marked by a profound exploration of my health. Confronting health challenges head on compelled me to embark on a thorough examination of my overall well-being. It necessitated a deep dive into understanding not only what I was consuming but also the environmental exposures I encountered daily. The three substantial transformations in my quest for better health are: the quality of the water I consumed, the products I incorporated into my daily routine, and, naturally, the choices I made regarding the food I ate.

1. Water Toxicity: Navigating the Clear Waters

Water can unfortunately harbor contaminants that pose risks to our health. From heavy metals, chemicals, and micro-organisms, understanding water toxicity is important. In our upcoming newsletters, we'll explore the sources of water contaminants, their impact on health, and simple steps we can take to ensure access to clean and safe water.

Enhancing the quality of your water is easily achievable by opting for a reliable water filtration system. Among the top choices in the market are renowned options like Berkey and reverse osmosis systems, although these can be on the pricier side. Alternatively, I personally recommend the Zero Water filter, available for a reasonable $40 on Amazon.

2. Products Toxicity

A game-changer for my health has been discovering the Yuka app. This app allows me to effortlessly scan various products—ranging from makeup and hair care items to food—unveiling hidden harmful ingredients. The app not only identifies these elements but also rates the product, offering valuable insights into its overall toxicity. It has become an indispensable companion in making informed choices for a healthier lifestyle.

3. Food Toxicity

A pivotal lesson from my healing journey illuminated the fact that not all food universally benefits everyone. Certain foods can trigger sensitivities, inflammation, and other adverse reactions. This realization prompted a thorough examination of my daily dietary choices to gauge their impact on my body's well-being. I always try to opt for real, preferably organic, food free of pesticides and contaminants—a mindful choice aligned with my body's needs. The best thing you can do for yourself before purchasing anything at the grocery store is to read the ingredients!

Small changes every day can make a big impacts on our overall health. May the commitment to conscious living, the pursuit of cleaner waters, safer products, and nourishing foods pave the way for a healthier future for us all.

Here's to a journey and mindful living.

This month, Martin recommends 'The Bulletproof Diet', an exploration on weight loss, wellness, and regaining your energy.

We have spare copies in the Lisgar clinic, so if you would like to borrow one, please feel free to ask us at the front desk :)

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Subject: March @ Oaktree: Toxicity Explored 🍀