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www.oakvillebeaver.com · OAKVILLE BEAVER Thursday, April 15, 2010 · 20 Health and Wellness Score 'strong' in immunity (NC)-- Approximately eight out of 10 women world-wide say their number one health concern is protecting their wellbeing. Yet, this new international women's study also reveals only half are aware that 70 per cent of the immune system resides in the intestines, a figure that drops to one in three for Canadian women. "More and more Canadians are striving to live a healthier lifestyle, but may not understand the link between good digestive health and a healthy immune system, says Dr. Jennifer Malcolm, family physician. But there is good news ­ even small lifestyle changes can keep our digestive system running smoothly, which in turn boosts immunity." Looking to improve your immunity IQ? Dr. Malcolm recommends these quick and easy tips: Eat your fruits and veggies: Data reveals Canadian women want to eat healthy, but despite best efforts, have difficulty doing so. While daily servings of fruits and vegetables help keep the immune system strong, fitting these essential nutrients into our diet isn't always easy. Try keeping a stash of frozen vegetables on hand to toss into soups or salads, or splurge on pre-washed, pre-cut fruits and veggies for an easy dinner side dish. Feeling adventurous? Substitute avocado for butter or margarine as a healthy, but delicious spread. Don't wait for cold season: Five out of 10 Canadian women take multivitamins daily, and multivitamin use climbs to 59 per cent during cold and flu season. Newer innovations on the market, such as Multibionta, contain multiple benefits such as probiotics and essential vitamins and minerals in one daily, easy-toswallow caplet. New to Canada, this new probiotic multivitamin is also clinically proven to reduce the duration of a cold by up to two days and the severity of cold symptoms. Stay active: North American women lead the pack in wanting more energy. And, Canadian women (69%) are more likely to work physical activity into their day, understanding exercise helps keep the immune system strong and healthy. So whether it's playing with your kids, taking the stairs or parking a few blocks away from work, try to get moving at least 30 minutes a day. Regular exercise also reduces stress ­ another reason to keep moving. Sleep more: Sleep contributes to the health of our immune system, and 65 per cent of Canadian women agree extra sleep can make them feel more revitalized. Having difficulty sleeping? Take some time to unwind before you sleep and try getting up at the same time every day to set your internal clock. You can learn more about how you can strengthen your immunity online at www.youcantakeit.ca. Has a great series of programs and events coming soon: Summer Camps for children with epilepsy, support groups, individual and family counselling, group meetings, education and information events, And so much more. EPILEPSY HALTON PEEL oyo have o youhave you have ave v ve We are currently seeking female patients who are: using Fosamax (also called alendronate) - either ongoing or discontinued have gone through menopause (and over 55) If so, you may be able to participate in a research study involving an investigational medication taken twice a year compared to an approved medication for the treatment of osteoporosis. Eligible volunteers will receive study-related bone density assessments and study medication at no charge. ost osteoporosis? steoporo rosis? Epilepsy Halton Peel "is building a community for people living with seizures" Visit www.epilepsyhaltonpeel.org for more information or contact us at: 905-450-1900 or info@epilepsypeel.org TORONTO OAKVILLE For more information, please call the Specialists at LMC Endocrinology Centres. Study Doctor: Dr. Twum-Barima Coordinator: Winnie Ku at 905-337-0040 x35 www.LMC.ca LEARN MORE. GET HEALTHY. ETOBICOKE THORNHILL BARRIE MARKHAM BRAMPTON CALGARY MONTREAL After a lifetime of achievement, the most influential generation deserves compassion and respect. It's A Matter of... Independence, Dignity, Choice Nobody asks the important questions until they're in the middle of a crisis. Yet, despite all that modern medicine can do, older people continue to be susceptible to severe, disabling and sometimes life threatening illnesses. And navigating the complexities of today's medical and care options can overwhelm vital decisionmaking. Retire-At-Home Services witnesses these challenges every day. We all know the statistics ­ seniors are a growing demographic in our society. People live longer and remain active longer. With 300,000 people in Canada turning 65 every year this historic shift demands an understanding of their needs, not just as a generation, but also as individuals. What we don't see in the statistics and what gets lost in the process of finding options of treatment, is the pain, fear, guilt and anger that ndividuals often feel as they try to find answers. During these challenging times, the first remedy as a professional is lending an active and compassionate ear in order to understand what matters most, to understand what is needed most. "By placing the person at the center and in his context, we are able to see beyond the obvious," says Dariana Paraschiv, RN, BScN. "Caring for these clients can be extremely complex. In my practice at Retire-At-Home, I spend many, many hours listening, talking to clients and their family, advocating and researching to developing the best and most appropriate services/care plans ­ from basic housekeeping and personal care, to complete coordination of services with nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, nutritionists, and, of course, thoroughly understanding of medical conditions, treatments, psychosocial context ­ all in order to restore an ill and disabled person to a level of maximum ability. The quality of life of an individual is determined and defined by the individual." Personal, individualized care is the hallmark of Retire-At-Home Services ­ care that addresses both the emotional and the physical health of an individual. Retire-At-Home gave Tara and her sister `an invaluable gift during a stressful time'. Thanks to compassionate and expert support, "Mom was able to retain her independence and be in the comfort of her own home as she wished." More than 15 years of Case management skills, intimate knowledge of the health system and health resources, consistency, careful matching of caregivers to clients, dedicated time and compassion that leads to trust and the optimum outcomes for clients. Retire-At-Home is passionate about serving seniors and their families. "It's more than a business, it's a commitment to care." Monica's dad fell in the bathroom and broke his hip. After undergoing surgery, the family had an immediate need for guidance and direction. "It was about someone caring and having the knowledge and capability to back it up. Thanks to Dariana we were able to put in place a program that shortened months of hospital care to three weeks of great and professional support. The grasp of what was required was a huge relief." Even after Retire-At-Home's direct services stopped, Monica found the care didn't. Staff at Retire-At-Home followed up, making sure she and her family were connected with the appropriate resources. "I would recommend them to the entire world. For anyone who is in the wilderness when it comes to the elderly and their needs there is no one better than Retire-At-Home." For more information on how Retire-At-Home can help you and your family in Burlington-Oakville. www.RetireAtHomeOakville.com 289-337-4677 Retire-At-Home ­ home care services with a personal touch