Written by Shawn D’Souza, BASc, DOMP

What Is Osteopathy and Why Might It Help You?

Osteopathy was founded in the late 1800s by Andrew Taylor Still, a physician who became frustrated with the medical treatments available at the time. Many of the therapies used at the time were ineffective and sometimes even harmful. Dr. Still believed there had to be a better way to support health- one that worked with the body’s natural abilities rather than against them.

This belief became the foundation of Osteopathy.

The Philosophy Behind Osteopathy

Osteopathy is based on the idea that the body has an inherent and powerful ability to heal and regulate itself. When something isn’t working properly- whether it’s pain, tension, or reduced mobility- it may be a sign that something in the body’s structure is out of balance.

Instead of focusing only on symptoms, osteopathic treatment aims to identify and address the underlying cause of the problem. The goal is to help the body return to a state where it can function and heal more effectively.

A Different Way of Looking at the Body

Much of conventional medicine focuses on the body through chemical processes, often using medications to treat symptoms or disease.

Osteopathy takes a different perspective. It views the body as a connected physical system made up of structures, movement, forces, and circulation. Bones, muscles, joints, connective tissue, nerves, and blood flow all work together. If one part isn’t moving or functioning well, it can affect other parts of the body.

Osteopathic practitioners use their detailed knowledge of anatomy and a highly trained sense of touch to assess how the body is moving and functioning. Gentle manual techniques are then used to help restore movement, reduce tension, and support the body’s natural healing and regulatory processes.

Why Patients Choose Osteopathy

People often seek osteopathic care because it offers a holistic and hands-on approach to health. Rather than simply masking symptoms, treatment focuses on improving how the body functions overall.

Patients may try osteopathy for:

● Musculoskeletal issues
● Headaches
● Postural issues
● Recovery from injury or illness
● Stress and tension in the body
● Improved sleep
● Digestive issues
● Pain management
● Chronic diseases

Many patients also appreciate that osteopathic care is gentle, individualized, and focused on the whole person, not just one symptom.

Supporting Your Body’s Natural Healing

Ultimately, osteopathy is about helping the body work the way it was designed to. By restoring balance and improving movement within the body’s structures, treatment aims to create the conditions where healing can happen naturally.

For many patients, this approach offers a way to better understand their bodies, relieve discomfort, and support long-term health.

Written by Dr. Sarah Tayebi, ND

Feeling Drained? Recharge Fast with IV Therapy

Life can be overwhelming. Long workdays, busy family schedules, travel, and illness can leave you feeling worn out, even if you’re eating well and staying hydrated. If this sounds familiar, IV therapy could be exactly what your body needs.

Boost Your Energy and Recovery

Feeling tired or run-down? IV therapy delivers essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants straight to your cells. Many patients notice increased energy, faster recovery from illness, and reduced fatigue.

Support Your Immune System

Stress, infection, or illness can weaken your defenses. Nutrients like vitamin C, zinc, and magnesium, delivered directly to your cells through IV therapy, help strengthen your immune system where it matters most.

Personalized for Your Needs

Everyone’s body is different. IV therapy can be tailored to your goals, whether that’s boosting energy, speeding recovery, or simply feeling healthier overall. Book an initial appointment with one of our IV practitioners for a short consult and a customized IV plan. You will receive your treatment on the same day.

Don’t wait until exhaustion catches up.

IV therapy is a safe, effective way to give your body what it needs, fast. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if it’s right for you, and start feeling the difference from the inside out today!

Written by Dr. Jill Shainhouse, ND

Should I Avoid Sugar if I Have Cancer?

A Balanced, Evidence-Informed Perspective from Dr. Jill Shainhouse, ND

“Should I avoid sugar?” This is one of the most common and emotionally charged questions I hear from patients after a cancer diagnosis. It’s understandable why. Online, you’ll find strong claims that “sugar feeds cancer,” while others insist diet makes no difference at all.

The truth lies somewhere in the middle, and it’s more nuanced than you might think.

As a naturopathic doctor with a practice focus in integrative cancer care, I aim to clarify what we actually know, what is misinformation, and what practical steps can genuinely support your health.

Does Sugar Feed Cancer? The Science Explained Simply

Cancer cells do use glucose (sugar) for fuel. However, so do your healthy cells – your brain, muscles, immune system, and healing tissues all require glucose.

Here’s what the research actually shows:
● Cancer cells use sugar differently than healthy cells – they burn it quickly and turn it into lactate, even when there’s plenty of oxygen. This unusual behaviour is known as the “Warburg effect.”
● You may think that eliminating all carbohydrates from your diet would stop this process, but healthy cells are capable of making glucose from proteins and fats through a process called gluconeogenesis.
● What does matter is whether the diet promotes insulin spikes and chronic inflammation, which can influence tumour growth in some cancers.

So the problem is not sugar alone – it’s how sugar affects the metabolic environment around the cancer.

Where Sugar Becomes a Concern

While sugar itself is not a carcinogen, certain patterns matter:

1. Diets high in added sugars increase insulin and IGF-1 levels

Chronic elevation of insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) can promote atypical cell growth and reduce apoptosis (programmed cell death). Hormone-sensitive and metabolically active cancers, such as breast, colorectal, and prostate, may be most affected by this pathway.

We can check both insulin and IGF-1 levels in your blood to see if either marker needs improvement, and adjust your diet accordingly to help bring them into a healthier range.

2. High-sugar diets increase inflammation

Systemic inflammation can impair treatment recovery and overall wellness.

3. Excess sugar displaces nutrient-dense foods

If sugary snacks replace foods rich in fibre, antioxidants, and healthy fats, the immune system and gut microbiome may be compromised.

Where People Get Misled

Myth #1: “If I eat a cookie, my cancer will grow.”

This is not true. Your body regulates blood sugar tightly, and one treat will not accelerate tumour growth.

Myth #2: “I must avoid fruit because it contains sugar.”

Fruits contain fibre, polyphenols, antioxidants, and cancer-protective compounds. Research supports fruit intake during treatment.

Myth #3: “Only ketogenic diets work for cancer.”

Ketogenic diets may be appropriate for specific cancers (GBM, some metastatic cancers under careful supervision) but are not suitable or necessary for everyone.

A More Helpful Framing: Reduce Added Sugar, Not All Carbohydrates

The goal is not to remove all carbohydrates, but to create metabolic stability. Here’s what I recommend to most patients unless there’s a specific medical reason
otherwise:

Focus on whole, unprocessed carbohydrates:

● vegetables
● fruits
● legumes

● whole grains
● root vegetables
● intact starches (e.g., quinoa, barley, buckwheat)

Limit added sugars:

● sugary drinks
● candy
● baked goods
● sweetened yogurts
● syrups and processed snacks

Pair carbohydrates with protein and healthy fats:

– This prevents sharp insulin spikes and stabilizes energy.

Support the gut microbiome:

– Fibre helps regulate blood sugar and inflammation- two critical areas in cancer recovery.

What About Completely Cutting Out Sugar?

– Some patients feel best reducing sugar dramatically, and that’s fine- as long as the diet remains nutritionally adequate. Others find extreme restriction increases anxiety, guilt, or disordered eating patterns.
– Your mental and emotional well-being matters.
– Your diet should support your healing, not create fear.

So, Should You Avoid Sugar If You Have Cancer?

– You do not need to eliminate sugar
– You should MINIMIZE added sugars and focus on whole-food sources of carbohydrates that keep insulin stable and inflammation low.

In integrative oncology, our goal is to create a metabolically balanced, anti-inflammatory internal environment while supporting treatment tolerance, immune function, and overall quality of life.

Nutrition is deeply individual- your cancer type, treatments, metabolism, and personal preferences matter. If you’d like more information on the best diet for YOU, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Written by Dr. Jill Shainhouse, ND

Dr. Shainhouse, ND has over 21 yrs experience in clinical practice and has successfully completed board examinations that pertain to integrative cancer care. Her interest in supportive cancer care began as a naturopathic medical student after recognizing the need for naturopathic doctors to provide safe and evidence based supportive advice to patients receiving chemotherapy, radiation, surgery and targeted therapies.

Anti-inflammatory Fats: Omega-3 vs. Omega-6

If you’ve ever struggled with fatigue, joint pain, bloating, or unexplained weight gain, chronic inflammation might be playing a role. While short-term inflammation is a natural part of the body’s healing process, ongoing inflammation can contribute to a range of health issues—from arthritis to heart disease and even depression. The good news? What you eat can make a powerful difference.

What is an Anti-Inflammatory Diet?

An anti-inflammatory diet focuses on whole, nutrient-rich foods that support your immune system and reduce chronic inflammation. Rather than a strict set of rules, it’s more of a lifestyle approach that encourages balance and variety while avoiding processed and inflammatory foods.

It’s similar in many ways to the Mediterranean diet and is rich in:

• Colorful fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Healthy fats like olive oil and avocados
• Fatty fish such as salmon and sardines
• Nuts and seeds
• Herbs and spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic

Omega-3 vs. Omega-6 Fats: Why Balance Matters

Fats play a huge role in inflammation—some calm it down, while others can stir it up.

Omega-3 fatty acids are well-known for their anti-inflammatory properties. These are found in foods and supplements like:

• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)
• Flaxseeds and chia seeds
• Walnuts
• Algae-based supplements (especially for vegetarians/vegans)
• Fish oils

On the other hand, Omega-6 fatty acids, while essential in small amounts, can become pro-inflammatory when consumed excessively. These fats are found in:

• Vegetable oils like corn oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, and canola oil
• Processed snack foods
• Fast food and fried items

The Western diet tends to be very high in omega-6s and low in omega-3s, which can promote chronic inflammation. Shifting this ratio by increasing omega-3 intake and reducing processed vegetable oils can have a big impact on your health.

Sample One-Day Anti-Inflammatory Menu

• Breakfast: Overnight oats with chia seeds, blueberries, walnuts, and a drizzle of honey

• Lunch: Grilled salmon salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olive oil, and lemon dressing

• Snack: Apple slices with almond butter

• Dinner: Quinoa bowl with roasted sweet potato, broccoli, chickpeas, and tahini dressing

• Drink: Turmeric tea or water with lemon and fresh ginger

Conclusion

An anti-inflammatory diet is more than a food trend—it’s a long-term approach to health and vitality. By eating more whole, nourishing foods and also being mindful of fat sources—choosing omega-3s over excessive omega-6s—you can help your body naturally reduce inflammation.

Start small, stay consistent, and and your body will thank you in time.

Tips from Dr. Nadine Kexel, ND

Dr. Kexel, ND has a practise focus in supportive cancer care. She carries a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology from McMaster University and a Doctor of Naturopathy degree from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM).   Her approach focuses on educating patients about their health, the science behind naturopathic therapies, and how these treatments can complement conventional cancer care. She was a resident at the Integrative Cancer Centre (ICC) and current part-time faculty at CCMN.

What is Inflammation?

Inflammation is a natural and essential process in the body, playing a critical role in healing and defense against harmful triggers. 

The Risks of Chronic Inflammation: 

When inflammation becomes chronic, it can contribute to a wide range of health issues, including autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular conditions, digestive disorders, mental health challenges, and increased cancer risk. Understanding how to manage and reduce chronic inflammation is key to long-term wellness, and naturopathic medicine offers a holistic approach to addressing this imbalance.

Key tips to reduce inflammation:

Nutrition

Diet plays a crucial role in inflammation. Processed foods, refined sugars, trans fats, and excessive alcohol can contribute to chronic inflammation. Naturopathic doctors emphasize whole, nutrient-dense foods such as:

• Food sources of healthy fats, such as salmon, avocados, olive oils, nuts and seeds, including flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds, which help modulate inflammation and support cardiovascular and brain health.
• Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables such as berries, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables, which combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
• Spices with anti-inflammatory properties, especially turmeric and ginger, which contain compounds that help regulate the body’s inflammatory pathways.
• Adequate hydration, as drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins and support cellular function.

Botanical Medicine/Supplements

Certain herbs and nutrients have been extensively researched for their powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Some of the most effective include:

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa) – Turmeric contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound. Research shows that curcumin helps reduce inflammatory markers, supports joint health, and may even protect against neurodegenerative conditions.
• Boswellia (Frankincense) – This traditional herb is known for its effects on joint and gut inflammation. Boswellic acids in Boswellia help inhibit inflammatory enzymes and are particularly useful for managing arthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Omega-3s from fish oil, flaxseeds, and walnuts have well-documented anti-inflammatory effects. They help regulate immune function, support brain health, and reduce inflammation associated with conditions like heart disease and arthritis.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Stress management techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises to reduce cortisol levels and lower inflammation.
• Adequate sleep to allow the body to repair and regulate inflammatory pathways. Creating a consistent sleep routine and reducing blue light exposure before bed can significantly improve sleep quality.
• Regular movement through activities like walking, strength training, and yoga to support circulation, reduce stress hormones, and decrease inflammation.
• Exposure to natural environments – Spending time in nature, whether through forest bathing or simple outdoor walks, has been shown to lower stress and inflammation levels.

Conclusion

Chronic inflammation is at the root of many modern health concerns. Through a naturopathic approach, it is possible to reduce inflammation naturally and holistically. By addressing diet, lifestyle, and incorporating powerful anti-inflammatory herbs or nutrients, naturopathic medicine provides an effective and sustainable way to support the body’s healing process. If you’re struggling with chronic inflammation, consulting a naturopathic doctor can help you create a personalized plan to restore balance and vitality to your health.

Written by Dr. Nadine Kexel, ND.

Key points by Dr. Navleen Arora, ND – Insight Naturopathic Clinic

Iodine has recently gained popularity in health circles, but it’s always been a vital mineral, especially for thyroid health. Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism and energy. Both iodine deficiency and excess can cause thyroid-related issues, so it’s important to maintain balanced levels for optimal health.

The Role of Iodine in Thyroid Function

Iodine is crucial for thyroid hormones, particularly thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism and energy. Deficiency can lead to goiter, hypothyroidism, fertility concerns and developmental issues in children. Hypothyroidism symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, and depression.

Iodine Deficiency in North America

Iodine deficiency is rare in the US and Canada due to iodized salt and dietary sources like dairy, seafood, and seaweed. However, individuals on restrictive diets or pregnant women may still be at risk and need to monitor their intake.

The Dangers of Excess Iodine

Excess iodine can disrupt thyroid function, leading to hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or autoimmune thyroid diseases like Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease. The thyroid has a narrow range for iodine intake, so both deficiency and excess can cause problems.

Dietary Sources of Iodine

Common sources include:

• Iodized salt
• Dairy products
• Fish and seafood
• Seaweed
• Commercial bread

While iodine is found in many foods, it’s important to balance intake to avoid overconsumption.

The Importance of Practitioner Guidance

Given iodine’s narrow therapeutic range, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you need supplementation. Your provider can help assess your iodine needs and prevent complications related to deficiency or excess.

Conclusion

Iodine is essential for thyroid health, but balance is key. Ensure adequate iodine intake through food sources and work with a healthcare provider to avoid potential risks associated with both deficiency and excess.

For further reading, explore these scientific studies:

• Study 1
• Study 2
• Study 3
• Study 4

Written by Dr. Sarah Tayebi – Insight Naturopathic Clinic

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) stand as a global health crisis, claiming the lives of millions each year. This category encompasses a range of disorders affecting the heart, blood vessels, or both, with atherosclerosis, or plaque formation in vessels, leading the way. Heart attacks and strokes, often rooted in atherosclerosis, are the most prevalent causes of CVD-related mortality worldwide. However, the good news is that many risk factors for CVDs are modifiable through lifestyle changes.

 

COMMON RISK FACTORS FOR CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES

Unhealthy Diet: Excessive consumption of salt, sugar, and saturated fats in your diet.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Smoking
High Blood Pressure
High Blood Sugar: Elevated blood sugar levels, including pre-diabetes and diabetes, are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases.
High Blood Lipids: Elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood.
Obesity or Overweight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of CVDs and associated complications.

 

REDUCING YOUR RISK
The good news is that you have the power to lower your risk of CVDs and related complications, including mortality, by making positive lifestyle choices:

Healthy Diet: Decrease your intake of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, while increasing your consumption of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and omega 3 fats.
Quit Smoking and Reduce Alcohol Consumption: Smoking cessation and limiting alcohol intake are crucial steps to reduce your CVD risk.
Get Regular Physical Activity: Incorporate at least 30 minutes of exercise per day into your daily routine to maintain cardiovascular health.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieve and maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and exercise.
Regular Health Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your blood pressure, blood sugar, and lipid levels.

 

RECOGNIZING WARNING SIGNS
It’s essential to be aware of potential warning signs of cardiovascular issues. If you experience any of the following symptoms, consult your doctor and seek further evaluation:

Chest Pain or Heaviness: Particularly if it occurs after physical activity and improves with rest.
Shortness of Breath: Especially during exertion.
Unexplained Fatigue: Persistent tiredness that can’t be attributed to other causes.
Leg Swelling: Unexplained swelling in your legs.
Heart Racing: Abnormal heart rhythms or palpitations.

In conclusion, cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death worldwide, but many of the risk factors are within your control. By adopting a healthier lifestyle, quitting smoking, moderating alcohol consumption, and being vigilant about your health, you can significantly reduce your risk of CVDs and their life-threatening complications. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you experience any warning signs, as early detection and intervention can be lifesaving.

Written by Dr. Navleen Arora, ND – Insight Naturopathic Clinic

Are you experiencing weight gain, fatigue, or hair loss? It might be time to take a closer look at your thyroid!

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in your neck responsible for regulating your metabolism and energy levels and affecting almost every cell in your body.

Unfortunately, thyroid disorders have become increasingly prevalent and affect many individuals. As a Naturopathic Doctor, I aim to provide my patients with valuable strategies and insights to support their thyroid health and metabolism.

Having your thyroid thoroughly assessed is the first step towards knowing if it is functioning well and is often discussed as part of your overall health assessment. This includes running a comprehensive thyroid panel that tests your thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid hormones (thyroxine and triiodothyronine), and thyroperoxidase and thyroglobulin antibodies. Based on the results of these tests, we can identify if you are suffering from subclinical or overt thyroid disease and also determine whether your thyroid disease is caused by an autoimmune disorder.

The most common type of thyroid disease is Hashimoto’s, an autoimmune disorder that causes hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight gain, fatigue, hair loss, dry skin, menstrual irregularities, muscle pain, and depression.

Fortunately, there is increasing evidence for natural strategies to help manage thyroid disease and promote overall hormone balance. Supporting your thyroid requires a multifaceted approach that considers all the factors that can affect it. This includes implementing a thyroid-supportive diet, managing stress, incorporating herbal and nutrient supplementation, and making necessary lifestyle modifications. As Naturopathic Doctors, we help our patients through their thyroid struggles by providing a comprehensive assessment and incorporating the appropriate changes so they can take an active role in their overall health.

If you think you may be suffering from thyroid disease, it is essential to consult a qualified naturopathic doctor or healthcare professional to receive personalized guidance and support on your journey to optimal thyroid health and metabolism.

Written by Dr. Mark Fontes, ND – Insight Naturopathic Clinic 

After speaking with three of my patient’s oncologists over the past week, I came to the realization that – after a few pleasantries – I had started each conversation the same way and then it was time to get down to business.

One thing that is often misinterpreted by many oncologists and general practitioners is the “alternative medicine” concept that is often associated with what we do. But Naturopathic Cancer Care isn’t an either/or situation. It’s AND.

The terms “integrative”, “complimentary”, or “alternative medicine” can mean many different things to doctors and are very much open to interpretation and personal experience. Unfortunately, Naturopathic Medicine in cancer care seems to get caught up in the “alternative medicine” category. This can’t be further from the truth.

I speak to these doctors about us being a part of the patient’s healthcare team. We support patients during all aspects of conventional treatment (surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, etc) in order to help reduce side effects, improve quality of life outcomes (sleep, pain, stress) and improve the efficacy of treatment. Naturopathic medicine then has a significant role in aiding the body in recovering from treatment, addressing any lingering side effects and organizing a plan that will prevent recurrence in combination with what is prescribed from the patient’s oncologist.

This is then typically followed by a series of questions around research for our recommendations
– which, thankfully, there is more and more to share alongside comments from my own clinical experience.

We can then get on the same page and share the common goal of optimal patient care.

It’s not either/or. It’s and.

Written by Dr. Stefanie Trowell, ND – Insight Naturopathic Clinic

Women often wince as they think about their period – and with good reason! As a naturopathic doctor who loves helping women achieve optimal health, finding out about a woman’s cycles is essential in completing a thorough health assessment and helping them achieve their goals.

The condition of your skin and connective tissues, brain health, mood, and metabolism are ALL associated with your hormones, and achieving balance can help you feel your best at any age. It’s very common for women to seek help during times of hormonal turmoil and irregularity, such as when periods are just starting (menarche) or finishing (peri-menopause).

Irregular and unpredictable may feel like a trend of the teenage years, but thankfully we can expect the cycle length and amount of flow to regulate within two years. This is less true of periods during the perimenopausal years. Fluctuating hormones can mean lighter or heavier flow, changing PMS symptoms, and irregularity in the length of your cycle. Your first missed cycle typically means the bittersweet end of your periods will be in about three years.

Naturopathic medicine can help with cramps, heavy flow, cycle irregularity, and menstrual migraines during a patient’s reproductive years. Yes, you can have periods without any of these issues! During treatment, we take a deep dive into the root cause of diagnoses such as PCOS, infertility, endometriosis, recurrent miscarriage, and more.

The complexity of hormonal balance during the reproductive years means we have to look at more than just estrogen and progesterone to discover how they are being metabolized and how they interact with other hormones, such as FSH, LH, cortisol, and insulin. Thankfully, we get clues about where to look and what to do from the period itself.

Period flow (or lack thereof, a.k.a. “amenorrhea”) is the most obvious sign of how a woman’s body is functioning. We also get information from the cycle length and other symptoms around the period. Our naturopathic team thinks “outside the period” by considering your meal plan, lifestyle preferences, and daily activities to understand where we can make adjustments to balance hormones and optimize our overall well-being.

With a better understanding of what’s going on in our bodies and a plan in place, we hope to help you feel better and be ready to conquer the next item on your to-do list.

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