August 2010

Clinic Tip of the Month: A Balanced Fitness Routine

Aerobic Fitness: The cornerstone of most programs, aerobic exercise helps your heart and lungs function better as it increases oxygen in the blood. Aerobic exercise targets large muscle groups and increases heart rate. Swimming, dancing, and biking riding are each great aerobic activities. 30 to 60 minutes is the daily recommendations.

Muscular Conditioning: Regular strength training assists in reducing body fat, increases lean muscle mass, and burns calories, thereby protecting the body from injury and increasing stamina. Resistance machines, free weights, resistance bands, and even homemade weights can be used to strengthen your muscles.

Stretching: Aerobic and muscular exercise cause our muscles to contract and flex. It is important to stretch them out in order to improve flexibility and range of motion. Stretching can also relieve stress and help prevent injury if done prior to exercise. Try setting aside some time to stretch before and after each workout, or by itself to maintain flexibility. Tai Chi and yoga are beneficial stretching activities.

Core Stability: The core is composed of the muscles in the abdomen, back, and pelvis. These muscles support the body and provide balance, and therefore it is important to keep them strong and healthy. Traditional crunches and ab machines that target this area are beneficial. Practicing core focused exercises, like Pilates, is also a great way to strengthen these important muscles.

Naturopathic Tip of the Month: Fruits and Veggies: To Buy Local or Organic?

This dilemma will spark discussion among all of us who love to eat fresh, wholesome foods for our bodies - especially in the summer months when fresh fruits and veggies are abundant. So, what's the best choice? Below are some facts to help you make more of an informed decision.

Local – most often refers to produce within 100-150 miles (approx 240 km). Eating local produce means you're eating seasonal and fresh (remember those yummy cucumbers from your grandmother's garden?), supporting our local farmers and reducing our carbon footprint. Food for thought: in a society that loves the ease of eating a variety of foods all year round, eating local greatly decreases our options of produce availability.

Organic – produce is grown under strict agricultural guidelines. Farmers must adhere to protecting the environment (i.e. promoting biodiversity and decreasing pollution etc) and farm food with as little as possible, synthetic pesticides, herbicides and growth hormones. Food for thought: Does the organic red pepper from Mexico , shipped mid-winter, outweigh the massive fuel emissions it took to get it to your table?

Keep in mind, that while not black and white, the best choice is the one that resonates best with you. Work with your Naturopathic Doctor to help you choose the best, most nutrient-packed foods for you!

New Addition of In-house Chiropodist to KWC:

If your insurance company requires you to see a chiropodist/podiatrist to get custom orthotics we can now book an appointment for you to see Jayme Lustig at KWC. There will be a $100 prescription fee added to our regular orthotic fees.

Clinic Vacation Schedule

Maggie Seegmiller, RMT, will be away August 3-17 inclusive. Lucy Tumolo will be covering for Maggie.

Thank You:

Thank you to the following patients who referred to King West Chiropractic during the month of July. We appreciate your ongoing trust and support.
 

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