Radio Naturopath Episode 292: Montelukast and Psychiatric Side Effects; Why Chocolate is Good For You

This week, we alerted listeners to the drug montelukast, brand name Singulair. This anti-leukotriene drug is commonly given to children and adults with allergies and asthma. The manufacturer has known for at least ten years that it can cause severe psychiatric effects in children, and yet the drug continues to be prescribed. I discussed the mechanism of action of the drug and some possibilities as to its cause. I also talked about nutritional factors that can be managed.

Since it's Valentine's Day this coming Sunday, I skipped over the mushy stuff and went right to chocolate! Why it's good for you, what conditions it can help, and recipes that include it.

Radio Naturopath Episode 276: Dexamethasone and the President; How to Stay Healthy in the Autumn; Happy Canadian Thanksgiving!

This week I talked about dexamethasone, the drug that may well be affecting the president's behavior. I explained what steroid are, the different types, and how they affect the body. I also talked about potential harm of this drugs. 

Today is October 12, the second Monday in October. It's Canadian Thanksgiving! I talked about that and its origins, and about celebrating it in Canada when I was there.  

I also talked about some ways to stay healthy in the autumn. Food, exercise, rest , hygiene!

Radio Naturopath Episode 193: COPD and CRPD: Help Your Lungs; Thanksgiving Foods That Are Good For You!

RND 193 is about COPD and CRPD, chronic obstructive and restrictive pulmonary disease. We discuss what they are and how to help, but it's not easy. They come as the result of years of lung injury, from smoking, poor air quality, industrial exposures, and/or genetics. There are some natural medicines that can help.

And, 6 Thanksgiving foods that are good for you and why! Turkey, cranberries, green beans, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, apples.

Radio Naturopath Episode 179: Prevention in Health, Lichen Sclerosus, Healthy Produce

This week we talk about PREVENTION, the 6th basic principle of naturopathic medicine. You want to try to prevent an illness before it occurs! So you look at a person's medical history, family history, environment, resources. You also want to make sure that the person lives in an healthy environment, and that there are COMMUNITY and WORLD resources so that person can be outdoors, eat good food, exercise, and reduce their stress. Prevention is about the personal and also about the community!

I also talk about lichen sclerosus, an inflammatory skin condition that mostly happens to menopausal women. I've seen a rash (!!) of cases lately! There are some conventional and natural ways to treat it. 

Also a good reminder to eat that summer produce!