Staying Healthy To Enjoy The Best Of Summer

Well, we’ve made it to a full blown summer after what felt like an endless winter/spring! Everything is growing, the days are longer, and the streets and beaches are full of noise and laughter.

So what can you be doing to ensure you are taking full advantage of this great and glorious season?

Here are a few tips to make sure you are getting the most bang for your seasonal buck.

Get that vitamin D! It only takes 15-20minutes of direct sunlight a day to optimize your vitamin D absorption. Vitamin D is something we lack in Canada because of the long cool seasons where we are covered up – cue seasonal affective disorders. So having and maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D will decrease fatigue, improve your mood, give you more energy, and it will help to regulate your bone strength by preventing osteoporosis.

Sunscreen! After this initial 15-20 minutes, sunscreen is a must. Applying it liberally is the key, and pay special attention to parts of your body you may forget about like your ears, lips, and the part in your hair! You should use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more, and it should be worn even when it’s cloudy outside.

Farmers markets are a must. We only get to really take advantage of local farmers produce for a limited time throughout the year, so take advantage. Organic, locally grown produce is not only better for you, but is more flavourful than imported produce. And buying fruits and vegetables that are in season is the best way to get in all of those amazing nutrients!

Better yet, if you can grow your own you’re in an even better position to really take advantage of our summer!

Stay hydrated. I know, we hear this all the time. But that’s because your body really does need adequate hydration in order for your organs to be able to function optimally. Steer away from headaches because you aren’t drinking enough water, and remember that all of those sugary and alcoholic drinks are extra dehydrating. Remember, if you are already thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Drink water before leaving your house, and walk with a reusable water bottle. Tired of plain old water? Infuse it with some of those fresh, ripe berries, cucumbers, mint, or fruit.

Spend time with friends and family! It’s so much easier to be social when the weather is nice. Enjoy a patio, a backyard, go camping, spend time at the lake, take a hike, enjoy your city, go for a walk….. Being around positive, like minded people is the best thing you can do for your mood and peace of mind. Laugh, catch up, go to a show, eat, and enjoy each others company.

Enjoy Yourself!

There are so many things to consider when planning a fun filled and healthy summer for yourself and your family. I hope these tips are ones that will help you to live every moment to the fullest, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Is it Safe to See a Chiropractor for a Bulging (herniated) Disc?

An intervertebral disc that lays between each vertebrae of the spine. It acts as a “shock absorber” and a “shock distributor” – allowing for flexibility in your spine. These discs are made of a tough outer layer, and a gelatin like center.

When there is a defect, or crack in the outer layer of the disc, the gelatin like substance that creates the cushion for your vertebrae leaks out. This is what is referred to as a bulging, herniated, or ruptured disc. The degeneration of the disc can be gradual, or can be sudden.

The causes can range from obesity, to accidents, to poor posture. Whatever the cause, we can all agree that the pain that results from a herniated disc can be excruciating.

But what’s next?

A Chiropractor will assess the severity of your injury and will complete a thorough medical history, a physical exam, and will perform neurological and orthopedic tests to determine the best course of action. X-ray or other diagnostic tests may be required to get a good look at what’s happening.

In a nutshell, a Chiropractor will assess the health and structure of your entire spine, as damage in one part of your spine can lead to pain in a completely different part of your body. The type of injury you have, along with the location will determine the type of care plan you require.

What if I’m Not a Good Candidate for Chiropractic Care?

The truth is, not everyone is – and there a various reasons for this. But some more immediate conditions will require a surgeon. If you lose control of your bladder or bowels for example, you would be referred to a neurosurgeon. In addition, if there is a big decrease in strength, sensation, or mobility – being assessed by a surgeon is required.

However, if you ARE a good candidate we will be able to provide you with various treatment options to address your pain.

The Role of Nutrition in Your Chiropractic Care

People often think that Chiropractic care is related only to the spine and adjustments. It’s important to note that when you see a chiropractor, you have signed up for a holistic journey. You see, injuries and ailments come with their own set of individual requirements to heal properly and fully. This is our goal as your chiropractic team, so that you can complete treatment with the knowledge to not have an injury repeat itself and to be able to maintain a healthy balance in relation to your body’s individual needs.

What we put into our body has a crucial role in its functionality and the fuel required to meet our needs when well, and when in the healing process.

Proper nutrition is imperative to the health of our brains and our musculoskeletal systems. When an injury occurs, nutrition becomes even more important. If you are recovering from a muscular injury and increase in protein may help with the recovery process. With a spinal injury, you could be faced with restricted mobility – which makes caloric intake important. Weight gain caused by an inability to exercise will put added strain on your spine which can hinder healing.

Foods That Heal

Yes, there are foods that can ramp up the healing process. Because your body will require more energy to digest foods that are processed or unhealthy, less of this energy is left to heal your injury.

Choose fresh fruits and vegetables, organic meats, unprocessed foods, WATER, and vitamins as a part of your everyday regimen. The goal here is to provide the most nutritionally dense, easy to digest, and delicious foods you can offer yourself.

Allow us to assess and determine the most effective course of action. Being open to dietary alterations can be frustrating for some – for others it’s a walk in the park. Either way, your body will love you for it – and you will be able to get back to your regularly scheduled activities sooner.

I’m here to serve the health needs of yourself and your circle of family and friends. Remember, I will always accept your referrals as members of my practice.

Dr. Peter Fraser

32 Brock Road North

Puslinch, Ontario

TeL: 519 763 1200

http://www.aberfoylefamilychiropractic.com