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April is National Oral Health Month
Every year, Canadians observe National Oral Health Month in April. This annual event aims to raise awareness about the importance of oral health and its impact on overall well-being. Oral health encompasses the health of the teeth, gums, and the entire oral-facial system, which enables us to smile, speak, and chew. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy and happy life. In this article, we will delve into the significance of National Oral Health Month in Canada and discuss the most common diseases that affect our oral health, including cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Understanding Oral Health Oral health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being. It…
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What is Frontotemporal Dementia?
It was recently announced that Hollywood actor Bruce Willis had been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), an uncommon form of dementia. This has brought attention to a condition that is not as widely known as Alzheimer’s, the most common type of dementia. In this article, we will delve into the complexities of frontotemporal disorders, discuss their impact on those affected and their families, and explore the symptoms, diagnosis, and current treatment options. What is Frontotemporal Dementia? Frontotemporal dementia is a group of progressive neurological disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. These areas are responsible for various cognitive functions, including decision-making, behavior, emotion, and language.…
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Unlocking British Columbia’s Fitness Treasures
As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, it’s time to embrace the outdoors and reap the benefits of nature’s own fitness playground in British Columbia. From serene coastal vistas to rugged mountain landscapes, BC offers a plethora of options for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to combine the joys of exercise with the beauty of nature. This spring, venture outside, breathe in the fresh air, and explore the countless opportunities for outdoor fitness in British Columbia. The Benefits of Outdoor Fitness Exercising outdoors provides several health benefits, both physical and mental. In addition to increasing your physical fitness and stamina, spending time in nature can help reduce stress, improve…
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Strategies for Effective Muscle Rebuilding
Rebuilding muscle is a crucial aspect of maintaining overall health and wellness, particularly as we age or recover from injury. It is important to recognize the significance of muscle rebuilding in order to reap its benefits. This article aims to explore who needs to rebuild muscle and why, the health reasons behind it, and the various ways in which one can rebuild muscle effectively. Who Needs to Rebuild Muscle and Why? Muscle rebuilding is a process that applies to various individuals for different reasons. One group that particularly benefits from rebuilding muscle is older adults. As we age, our bodies naturally lose muscle mass and strength, a condition known as…
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The Power of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized and evidence-based psychotherapy approach that has gained significant traction in Canada and around the world. It has been proven effective for treating various mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as well as helping individuals cope with everyday stressors. CBT originated in the 1960s, when psychologists Aaron Beck and Albert Ellis began to develop their respective theories on cognitive therapy and rational emotive behaviour therapy (REBT). These theories emphasized the importance of thoughts in shaping our emotions and behaviours. Over time, these approaches merged, giving rise to the comprehensive therapeutic approach known today as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. In…
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The Science of Sleep
Sleep is an essential component of human life, playing a crucial role in our physical, emotional, and cognitive health. As a physician, I am consistently asked about how much sleep one should get each night and how it benefits our overall health and wellbeing. This article aims to provide an extensive and detailed explanation of the importance of sleep, the recommended amount of sleep for different age groups, and how sleep can significantly impact us. The Importance of Sleep Sleep serves numerous vital functions for our bodies and minds. During sleep, our body undergoes a series of restorative processes that help maintain proper functioning and support overall health. Some of…
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Brain-Boosting Foods
The human brain is the command center of the body, and it requires a significant amount of energy to function correctly. The brain is responsible for all the physical, mental, and emotional activities that we perform every day. Thus, it is essential to consume foods that help to boost the brain’s energy levels and avoid those that cause it to feel fatigued. Foods that Boost Brain Energy: Fatty Fish: Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are essential for brain health and can help improve memory and cognitive function. They also help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which…
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Distinguishing Between Different Headache Types
Headaches are a common ailment that many people experience at some point in their lives. They can range from mild to severe, and they can be caused by a variety of factors. Understanding the common causes of headaches and the available treatment options can help individuals manage their headaches effectively and improve their quality of life. TENSION HEADACHES: Tension headaches are a common type of headache that can cause a dull, aching pain in the head and neck region. They are often described as feeling like a tight band around the head. Tension headaches can be mild to moderate in intensity, and can last for a few hours to several…
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Leafy Greens Linked to Lower Alzheimer’s Risk
A new study has found that people who consume more green leafy vegetables had fewer brain proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease. In the study, 581 individuals with an average age of 84 at the time of the dietary evaluation agreed to donate their brains upon death for the advancement of dementia research. To assess their food intake, participants completed annual questionnaires regarding the amount of food they consumed across various categories. The study investigated the adherence of individuals to the MIND and Mediterranean diets. Although these diets share similarities, such as the inclusion of vegetables, the Mediterranean diet additionally advises consuming fruits and three or more servings of fish per…
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How Music Harmonizes with Our Health
Music has been an integral part of human society for centuries, serving as a form of expression, entertainment, and communication. It has been used to evoke emotions, create a sense of community, and promote healing. One of the most effective ways to utilize music for therapeutic purposes is through music therapy – a clinical approach that utilizes music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. It involves a trained music therapist who uses music interventions to help individuals achieve therapeutic goals, and can be used in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and mental health facilities. How Music Therapy Works Music therapy is based on the…