Ask Naturally

Ask Naturally is a new feature of The NL Wellness Guide.

Questions like "what are the best supplements to take to reduce cholesterol or do generic brand products have components equal in ALL respects to brand name product?"

Professional local wellness practitioners are waiting to answer your health and wellness questions regarding EVERYTHING natural.

We have a list of practitioners including naturotherapists, Naturopathic Doctors, counselors, nutritionists, homeopaths..... waiting to answer your questions........ and It's FREE!

Question:
I am wanting to have my amalgam fillings removed due to my concern of mercury exposure. I was wondering if you could recommend a dentist in Newfoundland that would know how to do proper amalgam removal to reduce my exposure to mercury vapors during removal.

Thank you,
Jorden

Answer:
Hello Jordan
The only dentist that I know of who has the proper equipment is Dr. Janet Lawlor at Airport Heights Dental. Give her a call. She is great. I also recommend that you see a Naturopathic Doctor or other Natural Health Care Practitioner to put together a detoxification program for you before and after the amalgam removal. While you are getting them removed, you are getting the most exposure, so it is recommend that your body be prepared to handle that well.
Good Luck.

Kathleen Mercer B.Sc., N.D., Licensed Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
Health For Life
Phone: 709 722-4232

Question:
Hi. I've been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder since 2003. Now I find out that due to my first symptom of fatigue, it could be chronic fatigue syndrom. After years of medication after medication, I'm still constantly fatigued.
My question is; would it be worth getting a chelation treatment and can I do that on medications, or is there something else you would suggest to try. I will try anything to feel "normal" again.

Thanks
Lorraine

Answer:
Hello Lorraine, This is a common scenario as in health there are many gray lines of distinction between diagnosis or disease pictures.
I would be careful with chelation unless done under the care of a Naturopathic Doctor because it will effect how your body absorbs and metabolizes any medication. It also sounds to me like you may need Natural therapies that strengthen and tonify now, and cleanse later when you are feeling stronger.
I would consider getting your food intolerances checked via a blood test, therefore finding out what your immune and adrenal system might be being burdened by, and then changing your diet based on the results. Most Naturopathic Clinics can do this for you.
Also consider things like fish oils and a good B-complex. Also, lots of fresh air and sunlight. Reduced caffeine and sugars. Hope you are feeling better soon.

Kathleen Mercer B.Sc., N.D., Licensed Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
Health For Life
Phone: 709 722-4232

Question:
I had hernia repair surgery in my abdominal area about five years ago. I need to lose weight in this area and would like to do exercises to help me. Could you please recommend exercises that won't create another hernia problem in my mid-section? Dieting alone is just not doing it for me in this area.

Answer:
Hi Mary, Targeting extra weight in your abdominal area is high on many people's list! What we do know about targeting fat is that it comes off, the reverse of how it went on. So if you gain 15lbs of fat on your abdomen, then 10lbs in your hips, followed by 5lbs in both legs, you then have to first work through the weight in your legs and hips before your body will start breaking down fat in your abdomen. General fat burning cardio exercises will be great for you as you work big muscles and burn a lot of energy! Go for walks, swim, bike, run, do fitness classes like step or dance aerobics, and you will see a decrease in the extra weight you have been carrying! You can also do some exercises to target the specific area such as planks, and kegels, making sure to breath normally throughout. Just remember though that working muscles in the area does not mean you will target fat there! Remember to be patient, don't get discouraged if you aren't seeing results quickly, it takes time and commitment to get great results.

Matthew Moore, B.Sc. Hons Kine, Certified Athletic Therapist, Registered Massage Therapist
Avalon Laser Therapy
Phone: 709-753-0155
Business Profile Page Avalon Laser Health

Answer:
Hi Tammy, Dry skin is a very common skin problem and is often worse during the winter when environmental humidity is low and it can occur at all ages and in people with or without other skin problems. The outermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, contains natural skin oils (lipids) and also a certain amount of water. It is important to keep dry skin well hydrated and avoid using products that will decrease the amount of the protective oils.
A bath for dry skin should be warm and never hot and the time limited to about 15 minutes. After running your bath, add approximately 8 drops of your chosen essential oil or oil blend – the essential oils can be added to the bath water or diluted in one tablespoon of carrier oil – such as almond oil, Gently pat your skin dry after and apply moisturizer.
Make sure the essential oil is 100 percent pure and therapeutic grade. There are several essential oils that are good for dry skin; some of these are: lavender, chamomile, rosewood, frankincense, neroli, sandalwood, jasmine, rose, and patchouli. You would not use essential oils if you have sensitivity to them or if you have a contraindication to certain ones. For example, certain oils would not be used during pregnancy or with high/low blood pressure. Many oils can be used in your environment but are not suitable in for skin care.

Regina M Wright, BA., BEd., CHTP, RCRT, CSC
Naturotherapist
Phone: 709-727-9986
Business Profile Page Regina M Wright

Question:
I have had a problem with cysts for most of my life. I have had several lanced and it is very painful. I am wondering if nutrition plays any part in producing cysts in the body? A friend told me that she had read about regular detoxing as a preventative measure. What do you think? Sarah

Answer:
Hello Sarah, Cysts often occur when there is general congestion in the area. Supporting the liver can be one way to help the lymphatics move more freely. Reducing foods that cause congestion can help as well. Consider using some lemon water (1/4 lemon squeezed into 1/2 cup warm water) first thing in the morning to help the liver, as well as a 1/2 lemon in 1 cup of hot water in the afternoon.
Reduce the use of dairy which tends to increase mucous and congestion in the body. Get your body moving and sweating by rebounding with a mini trampoline. Skin brushing is another technique you can use to support lymphatic drainage and flow. Drink at least 1.5 litres of room temperature water per day. Increase your intake of a good organic green tea. Hope this helps. Take Very Good Care.

Kathleen Mercer B.Sc., N.D., Licensed Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
Health For Life
Phone: 709 722-4232

Question:
I wanted to try hypnosis for stopping smoking. Can you tell me what the success rate is using hypnosis? Also, how many sessions are usually needed?

Answer:
In one of the largest studies conducted, hypnosis was proven to be the most successful means of quitting smoking. A total of 15 different methods were compared in an extensive study, that drew from over 633 different scientific studies worldwide. This study was published in the Journal of Applied Psychology in 1992, and was conducted at the University of Iowa. 71,806 smokers were included in the studies, making it the largest study of its kind. Of all the programs studied, hypnosis had the highest success rate and results also showed that the average success rate for hypnosis was twice as high as the average success rate for programs using medication and more than twice as high as the average success rate for nicotine chewing gum.

Many people are impressed to discover the effectiveness of hypnosis to stop smoking, often in just one session.

Joan Corcoran, Certified Consulting Hypnotist
Holistic Hypnosis Centre
HypnoFertility Foundation Trained
Member of the National Guild of Hypnotists
Phone: 709 685-9808

Question:
What symptoms would I experience if I was deficient in Vitamin B12? What is the best form of vitamin to use, liquid or tablets? Carol, Ont.

Answer:
Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in every cell in the body. Often called the energy vitamin. Many times nonmeat eaters need to take a Vitamin B12 supplement and many people, especially the elderly, often need B12 injections due to poor absorption of nutrients.
Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms include: depression, fatigue, nausea. bowel issues, paleness, loss of appetite, bloating, headaches, low energy.
Liquid Vitamin B12 is the best form for most people due to absorption rate. The pill form of vitamin B12 takes a little longer to absorb and is best suited to those with healthy, normal digestive systems. B12 shots are recommended and administered by a doctor for those who have tested low B12 blood levels, for example those who suffer with anemia, fibromyalgia, digestive or other health issues and this method allows B12 to directly enter the bloodstream. Most liquids and pills contain adequate amount of vitamin B12 and is best taken as directed.

Eddi Kenny Boyd ND, PhD., Health & Stress Management
Phone: 709-728-3784

Question:
I recently began having problems with my knees after 25 years of being a very active walker and swimmer. I am wondering if I should continue walking or just limit my activity to swimming.
Also, what natural treatments are available for knee problems. I really don't want to have surgery. Terry, NJ

Answer:
One of the first things people will tell you when you are experiencing pain is to limit activity. The problem is that our bodies are made to move! You are healthier, experience less pain, sleep better, have less stress, better memory, and will live longer when you are physically active!
The cause of your joint pain may be coming from a variety of sources; posture, standing on your feet for extended periods, bending and kneeling, as well as deterioration with age, but there are many studies showing either no change in joint health, or improvement with physical activity. I recommend you modify your activity, taking out any whip kicks in your swimming, being mindful of your posture, making sure not to plant and twist and seeing a healthcare provider.
An Athletic Therapist (Athletic Trainer in the U.S.), Chiropractor, Massage Therapist, Acupuncturist, Naturopath (and the list goes on), can all help you recover your optimal health, without the need for extended drug use or surgery. Having a trusted Health Care Professional in your corner is a good practice at any stage in life to talk to about any health concerns. They can either help you directly or refer you to people who can!

Matthew Moore, B.Sc. Hons Kine, Certified Athletic Therapist, Registered Massage Therapist
Avalon Laser Therapy
Phone: 709-753-0155
Business Profile Page Avalon Laser Health