Akkermansia muciniphila, a beneficial bacterium naturally present in the human gut, has gained increasing recognition in recent years for its promising role in supporting metabolic health, weight management, and immune function and is now available in our clinic. While Akkermansia is naturally occurring, many individuals have suboptimal levels, especially those with metabolic syndrome, obesity, or digestive disorders. Supplementing with Akkermansia muciniphila under the guidance of a qualified clinician can be an effective approach to boost its levels safely, optimize gut health, and unlock its many benefits.

Metabolic and Weight Management Benefits

One of the most studied benefits of Akkermansia is its role in metabolic regulation. Research has shown that Akkermansia muciniphila may help regulate glucose metabolism, reduce insulin resistance, and support healthy lipid levels, making it especially valuable for those managing or preventing metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. In addition to supporting balanced blood sugar levels, Akkermansia has been shown to influence fat storage and energy expenditure, which may make it beneficial for weight management.

In my clinical practice, Akkermansia supplementation can be particularly helpful for patients struggling with weight management or metabolic health. Under a clinician's supervision, patients can monitor blood markers and metabolic indicators to gauge the effectiveness of supplementation and make necessary adjustments to maximize outcomes.

Gut Health and the Gut Barrier

Akkermansia muciniphila plays a unique role in maintaining the integrity of the gut barrier. It lives in the mucosal lining of the gut, where it feeds on mucin and helps stimulate the production of mucus, a critical component of the gut barrier. This layer helps prevent the escape of harmful toxins, undigested food particles, and pathogens into the bloodstream—a phenomenon often referred to as "leaky gut." By bolstering the gut barrier, Akkermansia supports not only gut health but also overall immune function, as it helps prevent inflammatory responses triggered by foreign invaders in the bloodstream.

Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Support

Akkermansia's anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable ally for immune support. When the gut barrier is strong and balanced, inflammation throughout the body can be better controlled. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with autoimmune conditions, inflammatory bowel diseases, or other immune-related conditions. By supporting a balanced immune response, Akkermansia supplementation may help mitigate chronic inflammation and, subsequently, reduce the risk of disease.

Under the guidance of a clinician, those with autoimmune or chronic inflammatory conditions can track inflammation markers to ensure they’re gaining the immune-regulating benefits of Akkermansia without risking overstimulation of the immune system. A clinician can tailor dosage and monitor progress, which is especially important for patients with unique health conditions or those taking immune-modulating medications.

The Importance of Clinical Guidance

While Akkermansia muciniphila supplementation holds significant potential, not everyone may benefit from the same dosage or delivery method. Furthermore, because the balance of gut bacteria is delicate, introducing Akkermansia without guidance can sometimes lead to unintended consequences, such as imbalances in other bacterial populations.

A clinician, especially one familiar with gut health and microbiome science, can help determine if Akkermansia supplementation is appropriate and provide personalized recommendations. This guidance often includes monitoring potential interactions with other treatments, assessing the patient’s overall microbiome health, and evaluating lifestyle factors such as diet, stress, and sleep that can impact the effectiveness of Akkermansia supplementation.

Supporting Akkermansia with Lifestyle and Nutrition

Beyond supplementation, certain dietary choices can encourage the growth of Akkermansia. Foods rich in polyphenols—such as berries, pomegranate, green tea, and dark chocolate—have been shown to support its growth. Additionally, prebiotic fibers found in onions, garlic, leeks, and asparagus provide fuel for Akkermansia and other beneficial bacteria in the gut. A clinician can offer tailored guidance on dietary changes that support Akkermansia levels, often combining supplementation with nutritional strategies to optimize results.

Conclusion

Akkermansia muciniphila supplementation represents a promising intervention for enhancing gut health, metabolic function, and immune support. However, as with any supplement targeting the microbiome, individualized clinical guidance is key to maximizing benefits and preventing potential adverse effects. A knowledgeable clinician can ensure that supplementation is safe, effective, and integrated into a broader health plan, empowering patients to harness the full benefits of this remarkable bacterium for long-term health. Whether you are a long term patient of our clinic or are looking for a naturopathic doctor grounded in a functional medicine approach, I look forward to seeing you and discussing this exciting supplement at your next appointment.

#GutHealth #Akkermansia #MicrobiomeSupport #MetabolicHealth #ImmuneBalance #LeakyGut #ProbioticPower #FunctionalMedicine #HealthyGut #WellnessJourney #GutHealing #HealthFromWithin #NutritionTips #Polyphenols #ClinicianGuided

Hello everyone! Dr. Michael here, and today I want to dive into an exciting and transformative therapy that's gaining popularity in the world of wellness: IV NAD+ Therapy. As a Functional Medicine Naturopathic Doctor, I’m always on the lookout for effective, science-backed treatments that can help my patients achieve optimal health. NAD+ therapy is one such treatment, and it’s time to explore what makes it so special.

What is NAD+?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every cell of our bodies. It plays a pivotal role in energy production, DNA repair, and cellular health. Essentially, NAD+ is a vital molecule that keeps our cells functioning at their best. Unfortunately, as we age, our NAD+ levels naturally decline, leading to reduced cellular efficiency and a host of age-related issues.

Why IV NAD+ Therapy?

While NAD+ can be taken orally (if is unfortunately broken down in the digestive system) or produced naturally by the body through diet and exercise, IV NAD+ therapy delivers this coenzyme directly into the bloodstream, ensuring maximum absorption and efficacy. This method bypasses the digestive system, providing a quicker and more potent boost to your cells.

Key Benefits of IV NAD+ Therapy

1. Enhanced Energy Levels
Feeling sluggish or constantly fatigued? NAD+ is essential for converting the nutrients we consume into usable energy. By replenishing your NAD+ levels, IV therapy can help revitalize your cells, leading to increased energy and endurance. Say goodbye to those afternoon energy slumps and hello to sustained vitality!

2. Improved Brain Function
NAD+ is crucial for maintaining brain health. It supports neuronal function and protects against neurodegenerative diseases. Patients often report enhanced cognitive performance, better memory, and improved focus after undergoing IV NAD+ therapy. It’s like giving your brain a turbo boost!

3. Anti-Aging and Cellular Repair
Aging is a natural process, but IV NAD+ therapy can help slow it down. NAD+ promotes cellular repair and regeneration, reducing the signs of aging both internally and externally. This means healthier skin, more robust hair, and a more youthful appearance overall.

4. Mood Enhancement and Mental Clarity
Life can be stressful, and our mental health is just as important as our physical health. NAD+ therapy has been shown to help regulate mood, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and provide mental clarity. It’s a powerful tool for maintaining emotional balance and mental well-being.

5. Improved Sleep Patterns
Quality sleep is fundamental to our health. NAD+ therapy can help regulate circadian rhythms and improve sleep quality. With better sleep, you’ll wake up feeling more refreshed and ready to tackle the day.

6. Detoxification and Resilience
Our bodies are constantly exposed to toxins, whether from the environment, food, or lifestyle choices. NAD+ helps in detoxifying the cells and boosting the body’s resilience against these toxins. This supports overall health and helps in maintaining a robust immune system.

Who Can Benefit from IV NAD+ Therapy?

IV NAD+ therapy isn’t just for those feeling the effects of aging. It’s also beneficial for:

- Athletes looking to enhance performance and recovery.
- Individuals with chronic fatigue or other energy-depleting conditions.
- Those with cognitive concerns, such as brain fog or early signs of cognitive decline.
- Anyone seeking a boost in overall wellness and a proactive approach to health maintenance.

Final Thoughts

IV NAD+ therapy offers a promising path to rejuvenation and enhanced wellness. By directly replenishing your body’s NAD+ levels, you can experience a wide range of benefits—from increased energy and improved cognitive function to anti-aging effects and better mood regulation.

If you’re interested in learning more about how IV NAD+ therapy can benefit you, I invite you to reach out and schedule a consultation. And for those who do not have time for an IV, a simple injection may work well for you. Let’s take a proactive step towards optimizing your health and well-being.

Stay vibrant and healthy!

- Dr. Michael
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References
For those who want to dive deeper into the science behind NAD+ and its benefits, here are some valuable resources:

- [PubMed Central:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7963035/]

In our bustling lives, where deadlines loom and responsibilities abound, sleep often takes a backseat. However, beneath the surface of our daily routines lies a fundamental truth: sleep is not merely a luxury but a cornerstone of our well-being. Understanding its profound impact on our physical, mental, and emotional health emphasizes the need to prioritize it as an integral part of our lifestyle. Here are five compelling reasons illuminating the vital role of sleep in our overall well-being:

1. Physical Restoration:

Sleep is nature's way of allowing our bodies to heal and rejuvenate. While we slumber, intricate biological processes unfold, promoting physical restoration. Muscles grow, tissues repair, and energy levels are replenished, ensuring we wake up refreshed and ready to face the day. This restoration process is essential for our overall physical health and vitality. Regular, restful sleep provides our bodies with the necessary time and resources to repair and regenerate, contributing to our long-term well-being.

2. Mental Clarity:

A well-rested mind is a sharp mind. Quality sleep plays a pivotal role in enhancing cognitive functions. During the night, the brain consolidates memories, processes information, and strengthens neural connections. This consolidation leads to improved memory, problem-solving skills, and creativity. Additionally, adequate sleep sharpens focus and decision-making abilities, boosting productivity and overall mental clarity. It enables us to tackle challenges with a clear mind and innovative thinking, making it a valuable ally in our daily pursuits.

3. Emotional Balance:

Emotional well-being is intricately linked to the quality of our sleep. Sufficient rest fosters emotional resilience, equipping us to handle life's ups and downs with grace. When we sleep well, our minds are better equipped to regulate emotions, reducing stress, anxiety, and irritability. Adequate sleep enhances our ability to cope with challenging situations, promoting a more positive outlook on life. By prioritizing sleep, we create a foundation for emotional balance, allowing us to navigate the complexities of life with greater ease.

4. Immune Support:

Sleep is a powerful ally in our body's defense against illnesses. It plays a crucial role in strengthening the immune system, bolstering our ability to fight off infections. During sleep, the body produces immune cells and antibodies, enhancing its resilience against diseases. Quality sleep ensures that our immune system functions optimally, making us less susceptible to common illnesses and promoting overall health. By nurturing our immune system through adequate sleep, we empower our bodies to ward off potential threats, safeguarding our well-being.

5. Heart Health:

Adequate sleep is closely linked to heart health. Research has shown that those who prioritize regular, deep sleep have a lower risk of developing cardiovascular issues. Quality sleep helps maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the strain on the heart. By allowing the cardiovascular system to rest and recuperate, sleep contributes significantly to heart health. Making sleep a priority is a proactive step toward a healthier heart and a longer, more vibrant life.
Incorporating regular, restful sleep into our routine is not just a necessity but a profound act of self-care. It is an investment in our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By recognizing the vital role of sleep and embracing it as an essential part of our daily lives, we pave the way for a healthier, happier existence. So, let us prioritize sleep, honoring its significance in nurturing our overall well-being and embracing each day with vitality and resilience.

If you find it challenging to achieve sufficient, restorative sleep, feel free to reach out to our clinic. Dr. Michael is eager to collaborate with you to enhance and restore your sleep quality. Don't hesitate to get in touch!

As the vibrant hues of summer transition into the warm, earthy tones of autumn, it's a perfect time to consider the health of our bodies. Just as the leaves shed their old selves, our bodies, too, benefit from a seasonal cleanse – a detoxification ritual that can be truly transformative.
1. Seasonal Shifts and the Body
Autumn signifies more than just a change in weather. Our bodies respond to environmental shifts, and the fall season can bring about unique challenges. With cooler temperatures and decreased daylight, we often spend more time indoors and gravitate toward comfort foods. These factors can lead to sluggishness, decreased physical activity, and poor dietary choices.
2. Detoxification as a Reset
A well-planned detox program can serve as a reset button for your body. It helps eliminate accumulated toxins, supports digestive health, and boosts the immune system. This is particularly crucial as we head into the flu season.
3. Seasonal Produce and Detox
Autumn offers a bounty of seasonal vegetables. These foods can be integrated into your detox plan to provide essential nutrients while aiding in the removal of harmful substances.
4. Mental Clarity and Emotional Balance
Detoxification is not just about the body; it also impacts the mind. Many individuals report improved mental clarity, reduced stress, and heightened emotional balance after a successful detox.
5. Finding the Right Detox Plan
As a Naturopathic Doctor practicing Functional Medicine, I understand the importance of tailoring detox plans to individual needs. Consider a personalized program that aligns with your unique health goals and preferences by calling our clinic today.
In conclusion, autumn is more than just a beautiful season – it's an opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate our bodies. A mindful detoxification process can help us navigate the seasonal changes with vitality and resilience, ensuring that we enter the colder months in the best possible shape. So, why not embrace the fall season as a chance to prioritize your health and well-being? I hope to see you soon.

A number of people have wondered why we recommend changes in diet when someone is living with cancer.  Unfortunately, our Canada Food Guide (which is based off the American Food Pyramid) is extremely high in carbohydrate.  This is great if one is working a very physical job where they are burning a lot of calories.  However, the vast majority of us this is not the case.  In North America, our high carbohydrate diet has lead to large increases in almost every chronic disease, including cancer.  We are designed to burn primarily fat as an energy source and protein to help build tissues.  Fat does not make us fat, sugar and carbohydrate does.  Sugar has been shown to feed cancer cells and is even the basis of the utilizing PETScans for identifying cancer presence.  Below is an article indicating the usefulness of the Ketogenic diet for those living with cancer.  Should you wish do learn more and embrace a holistic approach to dealing with your cancer - do not hesitate to contact us.
Ketogenic Diet in Cancer

Multiple Sclerosis is one of the family of auto-immune diseases which affect a huge number of Albertans.  After all we have one of the highest rates of MS in the world.  For a long time we have known that vitamin D levels play a crucial role in the development of MS.  However, vitamin D is only one component in the causation of this illness. Vitamin D is important in the functioning of our immune system.  

A few years ago, it was theorized at a conference in Calgary that lectins were another component.  That when not properly digested, these little bits of protein were exposed to the immune system creating antibodies that cross reacted with various tissues in the body.  One of these tissues is the myelin which coats the nerves and allows for proper functioning of our nervous system.  This theory was proposed for not only MS, but also Lupus (SLE), ALS, Hashimoto’s and others.  

New research is shedding further light on the cause of MS and it appears for a number of sufferers, gut bacteria play and important role rather than lectins from undigested food.  Certain bacteria that may be present in the gut of some people allow the immune system to create an antibody to the bacterial version of the enzyme called GDP-l-fucose synthase.  Again, this antibody is created in the gut and circulates throughout our body attacking tissues which contain high levels of this enzyme.  And of course, our myelinated nerve cells contain high levels of this enzyme.  To examine the study click here

What does this mean for the average person?  It means that proper gut health and immune function are pivotal in both the prevention and management of such autoimmune illnesses as MS.  Often our approach to health is like that of a person who jumps out of an airplane without a parachute:  nothing to worry about because we haven’t encountered the ground yet.  Our functional approach to naturopathic medicine helps one discover the need for a parachute.  Proper health  is not focused on starting once we have the disease.  Proper health is ensuring that we never develop the disease.  However, no matter where you are in your health journey, we want to provide you with the tools to improve your overall healthfulness.

We have known for a long time now, going back as far at the late 1980's that rampant antibiotic use was creating bacteria resistant to the these same antibiotics.  However, both in medicine and farming, our practices have not substantially changed and we now have numerous bacteria which are resistant to a number of antibiotics.  Probably the best example is methicliin resistant Staphylococus aures (MRSA) which is now resistant to numerous other antibiotics as well.  The article below is interesting, as it gives us an indication of how the over use of antibiotics are changing bacteria throughout the planet.  We often think that once we have finished a course of antibiotics they are gone.  However, they have simply been excreted by our body and are passed from our waste water treatment plants to our lakes and streams.  The article below provides an interesting read on this growing phenomenon:

Click this link: German scientists find antiobiotic-resistant germs in lakes, streams

The end of the current year is often a time for reflection on how the last twelve months have gone. Rarely, do we sit back and say: What a great year – I took time to relax, reduce stress in my life, and build healthy relationships and patterns that have served me well. While we may not have reached the level of perfection we would like there are a number of things that we can do in the upcoming year to improve our overall health and well being. Below are eight steps that will help you achieve a more balanced life, greater peace and joy.

1. Do a Proper Detoxification Program
Detoxification can help one lower overall physical stress and improve overall wellness. It improves overall functioning of the liver and metabolism. However, too many people undertake detoxification programs that they find either on the internet or recommended by friends. Often these 'detox protocols' are not researched at all and can actually cause more harm than good. I recommend only those detoxification programs which have research behind them and are supervised by your family naturopathic doctor.

2. Do Energy Intensive Activities in Moderation.
Studies have shown that endurance activities such as running, swimming and cycling are ideal for fighting stress and its negative consequences. However, these must be done in moderation – too little and there is no decrease in the stress hormones, too much and there is an increase in stress hormones. Done properly these activities help to decrease stress hormones while strengthening the heart and improving circulation. The endorphins released make you feel happier and more energetic. What about competitive sports? They are off the list as they create a new source of stress.

3. Employ Relaxation Techniques.
Relaxation therapies like Biofeedback Therapy and Progressive Muscle Relaxation have scientifically-proven benefits. Meditation and yoga have also show great benefit in reducing stress. They all reduce muscle tension and agitation, making people more resistant to stress, relaxed and happy.

4. Seek Out..

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Earlier this year the University of Kansas published a study on the effectiveness of high dose, IV vitamin C in the treatment of ovarian cancer.  It is interesting to note that the University of Kansas has been looking into high dose vitamin C (IV) for a few years now and the results are showing what naturopathic clinicians have found: that high dose vitamin C (intravenous Vitamin C) is an effective addition to chemotherapy.  I, myself,  have seen high doses of vitamin C give hope where the conventional treatment has left none.  My preference is a complimentary approach to cancer - not one or the other but both conventional and naturopathic.  The science continues to grow for alternative treatments.  This helps yet further dismiss one of my pet peeves: uninformed people who say there is no science behind complementary treatment when actually there is quite a bit, but that is for another post.

I use high dose vitamin C to treat cancer patients on a regular basis and find that it is well tolerated by patients and can be quite effective.  It is important to note that you cannot simply take lots of vitamin C orally and hope it will work - it won't.  The maximum daily oral dose that can be absorbed into the blood stream from the gut  by whatever formulations one wants to concoct is about 8 g (8000 mg). With IV, most naturopathic doctors start at 25 g directly in the blood stream and get to a value of 100 g or more over time. 

The other important thing to remember is that at low doses (oral doses) vitamin C acts as an anti-oxidant and may actually help cancer cells survive (theoretically).  However, at high doses (IV) vitamin C is a pro-oxidant which can aid in the killing of cancer cells.

If you or a loved one is suffering from cancer and would like to find out more about this treatment or any other complimentary (naturopathic) cancer treatments do not hesitate to get a hold of me.  I would be happy to talk with you. (Contact us!)

Note: for more on the University of Kansas story:  http://www.theepochtimes.com/n3/592898-high-dose-vitamin-c-helps-ovarian-cancer-researchers-say

For many years mercury was our biggest concern.  Through much public protest and based on the science mercury (Hg) was replaced with aluminum as the adjuvant in many vaccines.  For many people this is not a concern, but for the select few (which we have no way of knowing in advance) it can be a major health concern and life changing event.  Adjuvants make vaccines more effective. However, the aluminum can stick around in mast cells for years and slowly over time is transported to nervous tissue in the brain. 

So why use adjuvants?  The short answer is that they make vaccines more effective.  This means that less vaccine needs to be given and less doses to produce immunity within the person. 

Given this, there are recommendations within the European medical community (neurologists and others working with autoimmune) to produce adjuvant free vaccines.  At this time the European Union is not willing to mandate this. 

With the issues around vaccines, toxic metals, and yes, even acetomenophin for post vaccine fever, patients and parents need to be more informed that ever.  As a naturopathic doctor, I know that vaccines do play an important role in our lives and protecting us from some very nasty diseases.  However, information is key and this is where I like to help patients and parents make informed choices.

To see the issues around aluminum check out DW website at: http://dw.de/p/1CLK9  In addition, the show is being broadcast for the next few days.

For years we have been looking for the cause of autism in our children.  There were vaccinations which were proposed a number of years ago.  There was antibiotic use for ear infections (which more often than not were due to dairy issues), and of course there was blame placed on parents (often mothers).  Now there is another proposed culprit and there is at least a good correlation.  So what is this smoking gun?  Acetaminophen.

That is right, there appears to be a correlation between the use of acetaminophen and the incidence of asthma, autism, and ADHD.  Dr. William Shaw of Great Plains Laboratory puts together a interesting  argument for acetaminophen being the culprit.  If this does turn out with further study to be one of the major culprits, then the theories around vaccinations will have come so close to having found the culprit years ago. 

In a society where pain is to be dealt with immediately (think teething), and fevers to be avoided, acetaminophen quietly crept into our lives.  Our children's fevers went down, they slept and we slept.  However, the evidence (at a minimum) suggests that this needs to be studied further.  And most importantly, we need to stop medicating our children with acetaminophen. 

The most shocking finding in the paper is that while Cuba has a very high vaccination rate, it has a very low autism rate.  In Cuba, acetaminophen is not used to treat childhood teething issues, fevers, and post vaccination uncomfortability. 

If you want to be proactive with the medical care of your children, do not hesitate to meet with us.  We can help with less harmful ways to deal with fevers, teething and overall general preventative care for your child.

Read the full article here:  Increased Acetaminophen use Major Cause Autism, Attention Deficit with Hyperactivity, and Asthma