The developing adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to alcohol-related harm. When adolescents drink, alcohol can disrupt critical brain development and interfere with structural patterns and functional development. There is an increased risk for developing alcohol use disorders not only during adolescence but also in adulthood.
Community News
The Real Dangers of Alcohol
Alcohol has been designated a #1 preventative cancer causer by the World Health Organization (WHO) and by Health Canada, along with asbestos, radiation and tobacco. The WHO published a statement in The Lancet that there is “no safe amount of alcohol consumption that is safe for our health”, particularly during pregnancy. Alcohol causes at least 7 types of cancer, including the liver (cirrhosis), bowel, and breast cancer. The risk of developing cancer increases substantially the more alcohol that is consumed. Binge drinking raises alcohol levels quickly for men (4-5) drinks, women (3 -4 drinks) to (0.08 %) within two hours.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
“Why do we eat healthy?” asked Susy. “For superpowers,” Mom replied. “Carrots help you see through walls!” Now she’s hooked, convinced that each bite will help her become a real-life superhero!
May is Celiac Awareness Month
During this month, help us spread awareness for Celiac disease. Celiac disease is a chronic digestive and immune disorder that damages the small intestine. The disease is triggered by eating foods containing gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. Over time, this reaction damages your small intestine’s lining and prevents it from absorbing nutrients. The intestinal damage often causes diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, bloating and anemia, and can lead to serious complications. Your doctor will explain the gluten-free diet and may refer to you a registered dietitian who specializes in treating people who have celiac disease.
Community Spotlight: Misericordia Terrace
Misericordia Terrace is a new apartment building with 97 brand new one- and two-bedroom apartments. Every apartment has its own washer and dryer, fridge/freezer, microwave, and blinds included. Leases are on a month-to-month basis and include lunch and dinner served daily in the dining room, most utilities, and weekly housekeeping. A key feature of our residence is the sense of community- we encourage our residents to engage in social and recreational activities. Located on the edge of the Wolseley area, this residence is perfect to be central to your family members. The area is renowned for its close proximity to walking paths and green spaces, pharmacies, churches, libraries, shops and more!
Allergy Season Is Back
Many people suffering from seasonal hypersensitivities, such as head pressure, itchy eyes, and a runny or stuffy nose this allergy season will find only temporary relief, or no relief at all, from over-the-counter remedies. Alternative approaches, such as nutritional supplementation and Biofeedback focus on more than just symptomatic relief. They enable the body’s ability to remove existing allergens embedded in the sinus tissues, thereby minimizing the histamine and inflammatory reactions. This stops the over-production of mucus that the body makes to try and push the allergens out. Take a different approach this allergy season – treat the cause, not just the symptoms.
Avoid Denture DIY
Trying to adjust or repair your denture yourself can easily cause irreparable and permanent damage and negatively affect how they fit. If you break your denture, if a tooth falls out, if you notice they’re cracked, or if they’re simply uncomfortable and you’re feeling like they need an adjustment, a professional denturist can help. Denturists will ensure that any repairs are completed properly, eliminating any problems that could occur if you try to fix your dentures yourself. Most adjustments can be made while you wait, and today’s modern technology means that many repairs can be completed within an hour.
Effects of Cannabis Use During Adolescence
Canadian youth use Cannabis more than any other legal drug and statistics indicate on average
they begin using as early as junior high. When compared to alcohol and tobacco, cannabis has the
fastest rate of transition to substance use disorder among adolescents. Cannabis affects brain development in areas responsible for decision making, judgment, planning and problem solving. THC induces neurotoxic changes that can result in effectively altering the functions responsible for emotional and cognitive performance, impulse control, memory, coordination, appetite, pain, mood, pleasure and motivation.
Cannabis Exposure on Breastfeeding Infants
Breastfeeding is an ideal choice for infants, but if the mother is using marijuana – risks outweigh the benefits. THC is a fat-soluble liquid, which goes through the mother’s bloodstream, and stored in body fat, resulting in high concentrations in the brain and body. THC accumulates in the mother’s breast milk and may produce severe cognitive and behavioural consequences. Infant may also show signs of sedation, reduced muscle tone, poor sucking response, and digestive issues. Other effects include; irritability, excitability, exaggerated startle responses, and diminished crying in newborns. Some studies have found decreased motor development at 1 year of age.
Effects of Cannabis During Pregnancy
Cannabis is one of the most widely used legal drugs in Canada. The legalization of Marijuana served to reinforce the belief that there were no health risks associated with using Marijuana. Medical research has now identified a number of health risks with the use of Cannabis. However, knowledge about the potential risks of use during pregnancy, infants, toddlers, and adolescence remain largely unknown by the general public. Cannabis is the most common psychoactive substance used by women of child-bearing age, and the most commonly used drug among pregnant women. On average THC levels are 7 times higher, than in the past, increasing the harmful effects of Marijuana.
MYTH: It is a commonly held belief that the Placenta, which provides nutrients and oxygen to the fetus through the mother’s bloodstream does not cross the placenta.
FACT: THC rapidly crosses the placenta. Cannabis can stay in the mother’s body for weeks, depending on the strength, how often it is used, and the mother’s metabolism. While some mothers use Cannabis for morning sickness, and pain, the latest research shows that no amount of Cannabis is safe during pregnancy. The effects can be passed onto the fetus through the placenta. Research indicates that infants exposed to Cannabis in the womb, when compared to mother’s who did not use Cannabis during pregnancy, found that it effected the baby’s mental and physical development, as well as higher risks of being born too small and too early.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)
Studies have shown that the PEMF given off by the Earth is equally as important to human health as food, water, sleep, and sunlight. Pulsed Electromagnetic Field devices were originally used by NASA to maintain the health of astronauts in orbit. FDA approved pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) for multiple uses years ago verifying that it is a legitimate and safe form of physical therapy. PEMF Therapy helps receive chronic pain, better sleep cycles, improves digestive problems, and much more. To learn more about PEMF therapy, or to purchase your own device, or to experience a PEMF treatment, contact us today.
