# LLMs.txt - Sitemap for AI content discovery # Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic > Nourish, Balance, Repair and Cleanse your Body by Unleashing its own Healing Ability --- ## Pages - [Naturopathic Doctors in Toronto](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-doctors-in-toronto/): Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - [Naturopathic Doctors in East York](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-doctors-in-east-york/): Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - [Naturopathic Doctors in North York](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-doctors-in-north-york/): Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - [Heavy Metal Test](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/heavy-metal-test/): Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - [Stool Sample Test](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/stool-sample-test/): Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - [Food Sensitivity Testing](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/food-sensitivity-testing/): Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - [Hormone Urine Testing](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/hormone-urine-testing/): Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - [Organic Acid Testing](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/organic-acid-testing/): Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - [Serum Blood Testing](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/serum-blood-testing/): Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - [Hormone Saliva Testing](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/hormone-saliva-testing/): Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - [Thank you](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/thank-you-for-contacting/): Thank you for contacting us, we will get back to you soon. - [Thank you](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/thank-you/): Thank you for contacting us, we will get back to you soon. - [Sitemap](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/sitemap/): Home About us Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R. Ac Meet the Team Patient’s Consultation Fees The Clinic Blog  Contact Events... - [Events & Webinars](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/hygeia-events/): Join Hygeia events and webinars to learn about holistic health, nutrition, and wellness. Explore our upcoming schedule here. - [Checkout](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/checkout/): - [My account](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/my-account/): - [Cart](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/cart/): You may be interested in... Your cart is currently empty! New in store - [Shop](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/shop/): Browse our collection of natural health and wellness products, including bath salts, room sprays, and specialty items. - [Balance and Glow Body Acupressure Treatment](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/balance-and-glow-body-acupressure-treatment/): Hygeia offers expert Chinese glow body acupressure treatment to restore balance and relieve pain. Visit our acupressure clinic for full-body therapy. Book today! - [Balance and Glow Facial Acupressure Treatment](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/balance-and-glow-facial-acupressure-treatment/): Experience the rejuvenating touch of Hygeia’s acupressure facial massage. Stimulate facial pressure points for glowing skin. Book today for ultimate relaxation! - [Biodentical Hormones](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/biodentical-hormones/): Hygeia offers expert bioidentical hormone replacement therapy in Toronto. Restore balance and vitality with personalized treatment. Book today! - [IV Therapy and Injections](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/iv-therapy-and-injections/): Boost your wellness with IV vitamin therapy at Hygeia, Toronto’s top IV clinic. Rehydrate, recharge, and feel your best. Book today for a revitalizing vitamin drip! - [Nutrition Program](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/nutrition-program/): At Hygeia, we have registered nutritionists in Toronto to run nutrition programs for nutrition and lifestyle coaching. Contact us for holistic nutrition programs! - [Hygeia's Tui Na Massage Services](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/hygeias-tui-na-massage-services/): In Tui Na massage, the muscles and tendons are massaged with the help of hands, and an acupressure technique is applied to directly affect the flow of Qi at different acupressure points of the body, thus facilitating the healing process. - [Hygeia's TDP Heat Lamp Treatment](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/hygeias-tdp-heat-lamp-treatment/): The point of the TDP lamp is to reproduce this radiant effect in a dramatically more powerful and reproducible manner. - [Hygeia's Moxibustion or Moxa Treatment](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/hygeias-moxibustion-or-moxa-treatment/): Moxibustion is a form of heat therapy in which dried plant materials called “moxa” are burned on or very near the surface of the skin. - [Hygeia's Gua Sha Treatment](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/hygeias-gua-sha-treatment/): Gua sha is an ancient healing technique used by many clinicians of Traditional Chinese Medicine. - [Hygeia's Ear Acupuncture Treatment](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/hygeias-ear-acupuncture-treatment/): Ear acupuncture, also known as auricular therapy, is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. - [Hygeia's Cupping Treatment](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/hygeias-cupping-treatment/): Cupping was developed thousands of years ago and though the techniques have modernized, the original philosophy remains the same. - [Naturopathic Glossary](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/): Learn about terms and treatments about Naturopathic treatments - [Physical Medicine Services](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/traditional-chinese-herbal-medicine/): Herbal medicine can be quite beneficial when treating various health concerns. While in the west, herbal medicine is used more often as single herbal remedies with some emphasis on combinations, Chinese Herbal Medicine makes almost exclusive use of herbal combinations. - [Seminars and Lectures](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/seminars-and-lectures/): The health of your business relies on the health of your employees. Your organization’s most precious asset is then the health of its employees. - [Peat Hyperthermic Bath Services](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/peat-hyperthermic-bath-services/): Get the benefits of a hyperthermic peat bath in Toronto with Hygeia. Rejuvenate with our premium peat hyperthermia therapy. Book today! - [Muscle Energy Stretching Treatment](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/hygeias-muscle-energy-stretching-treatment/): Relieve tension & improve mobility with Hygeia’s muscle energy stretching treatment. Target biceps, hamstrings, shoulders & more. Book today! - [Live Cell Analysis Services](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/live-cell-analysis-lca/): Hygeia offers expert live blood cell analysis in Toronto. Gain insights into your health with our live blood screening. Book today for a detailed assessment! - [Laboratory Testing Services](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing-services/): Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - [Kinesiotaping Treatment](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/hygeias-kinesiotaping-treatment/): Relieve pain & enhance mobility with expert kinesio taping at Hygeia. Certified practitioners in Toronto. Book today for professional treatment! - [Hydrotherapy Treatment](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/hydrotherapy/): Hygeia offers expert hydrotherapy in Toronto, including colon hydrotherapy. Experience safe, effective treatments at our top-rated clinic. Book today! - [Infrared Sauna Services](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/infrared-sauna-services/): Hygeia offers premium infrared sauna therapy in Toronto. Enjoy full-spectrum infrared sauna with red light therapy for ultimate relaxation. Book today! - [Homeopathic Medicine Services](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/homeopathic-medicine/): Hygeia – Leading homeopathic clinic in Toronto. Expert homeopathic doctors & quality medicines near you. Visit our clinic or book today for natural healing! - [Clinical Nutrition Services](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/hygeias-clinical-nutrition-services/): Hygeia - Get expert clinical & holistic nutrition services in Toronto. Personalized programs by specialists to support your health with science-backed nutrition plans. - [Herbal/Botanical Medicine Services](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/herbalbotanical-medicine/): Hygeia offers expert naturopathic and clinical botanical medicine, harnessing the power of herbs for holistic health and wellness. - [Patient's Consultation Fees](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/about-us/patients-consultation-fees/): Naturopathic Medicine Fees are based on the care you require. visits range from 60 - 90min and involve an in depth investigation into your health concerns and your health status - [Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture Treatment](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/facial-rejuvenation-acupuncture-treatment/): Hygeia offers expert facial rejuvenation acupuncture in Toronto. Experience natural, non-invasive cosmetic acupuncture for radiant, youthful skin. Book today! - [Electrical Stimulation of the Acupuncture Needles Treatment](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/what-is-electroacupuncture/): Hygeia offers expert electroacupuncture treatment in Toronto for pain, overactive bladder, arthritis and many more. Safe & effective therapy. Book today! - [Cold Immersion/Plunge Baths](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/cold-immersion-plunge-baths/): Experience the benefits of cold immersion therapy with Hygeia. Refresh your body and mind with the best ice bath and sauna in Toronto. Book today! - [Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R.Ac](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/about-us/dr-effy-germanis-naturopathic-doctor/): Dr. Effy Germanis is a Naturopathic Doctor and Registered Acupuncturist and is a lover of gut health. - [Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Services](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/hygeias-traditional-chinese-medicine-and-acupuncture-services/): Get expert acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine in Toronto. Our registered practitioners can provide Chinese treatment method at Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic near you. - [Naturopathic Medicine Services](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/hygeias-naturopathic-medicine-services/): Hygeia offers expert naturopathic and holistic medicine in Toronto. Treat high blood pressure naturally. Find care near you, visit us for more Info! - [Treatments](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/): Explore our range of natural treatments designed to support your health and well-being. Discover personalized care for every need. - [Natural Fertility Program](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/fertility-program/): Boost fertility naturally with expert naturopathic infertility treatment, personalized nutrition, and holistic medicine for optimal reproductive health. - [Corporate Wellness Program](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/corporate-wellness-program/): Boost productivity and well-being with a tailored corporate wellness program in Toronto. Empower employees with expert coaching and holistic company wellness solutions. - [Healthy Aging Program](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/healthy-aging-program/): Boost vitality with our healthy aging program. Expert care, tailored nutrition, and active aging programs at our healthy aging clinic for lifelong wellness. - [Healthy Lifestyle Program](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/healthy-lifestyle-program/): Transform your well-being with a personalized healthy lifestyle program. Get expert guidance from a healthy life coach for better nutrition and lasting wellness. - [Stress and Fatigue Management Program](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/stress-and-fatigue-program/): Hygeia offers expert stress management programs in Toronto. Join our proven training to build resilience, improve well-being, and take control of stress today. - [Pain Management Program](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/pain-management-program/): Hygeia's pain management program offers naturopathic pain management treatment designed for lasting relief. Experience holistic care tailored to your needs. - [Sports Recovery and Endurance Program](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/sports-recovery-and-endurance-program/): Hygeia's sports recovery program offers expert sports recovery treatments and therapy to help you heal, recharge and perform at your best. Visit our clinic today! - [Weight Loss Program](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/weight-loss-program/): Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic runs weight loss programs in Toronto and offers Chinese and naturopathic medicine including acupuncture to achieve sustainable weight loss. - [Gut Health Program](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/gut-health-program/): Hygeia: Expert naturopath gut health specialist in Toronto, offers personalized gut health programs to restore digestion, balance, and overall well-being. - [Naturopathic Programs](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/): Hygeia programs are created to provide well rounded and individualized care for your health and your health concerns. Includes testing, consultations and treatments - [The Clinic](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/about-us/the-clinic/): Supporting your body is of utmost importance when it comes to sports medicine. Using natural therapies, we enable and support athletes in their athletic performance, healing from injuries and preventing injuries. - [Meet the Team](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/about-us/meet-the-team/): Our diverse and educated team are here to help and support you on your path to wellness. - [Contact](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/contact/): Learn more about our services and book your appointment today. - [Hygeia's New Patients](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/new_patients/): Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic is accepting new patients. Our dynamic team works together to provide you with well- rounded care. Want to learn more book a free discovery call. - [FAQ](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/faqs/): Have questions about our services, naturopathic medicine, treatments, or what to expect at your visits - [Blog](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/blog/): stay updated on health topics and learn how to incorpoate health tools into your daily routine to support and optimize your health and your life - [Homepage](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/): Searching "naturopath near me"? Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic is located in East York, Toronto, providing naturopathic, herbal, acupuncture, nutrition and other services. - [About us](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/about-us/): We provide individualized care and treat the person as a whole by addressing the 5 pillars of health. ## ## Posts - [Reclaiming Wellness: A Day of Healing Through Hydrotherapy and Stone Therapy Rooms](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/reclaiming-wellness-a-day-of-healing-through-hydrotherapy-and-stone-therapy-rooms/): Burnt out and overwhelmed, I found healing through hydrotherapy, stone rooms, and red light at a holistic day spa. - [Wait, THAT Lowers Cholesterol?” 3 Surprisingly Fun Ways to Help Your Heart ](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/wait-that-lowers-cholesterol-3-surprisingly-fun-ways-to-help-your-heart/): Boost heart health with 3 science-backed habits—nature, sleep, and sunlight—no treadmill or kale required. - [Avocado Love: How this superfood can transform your health](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/avocado-love-how-this-superfood-can-transform-your-health/): Nutritious, versatile, and delicious, avocados have become a kitchen staple in many homes around the world. While some people refer... - [When to See a Dietitian vs. a Nutritionist for Your Health Goals?](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/when-to-see-a-dietitian-vs-a-nutritionist-for-your-health-goals/): Dietitian vs. nutritionist, who's right for you? Check the key differences, expert roles, and how clinical nutrition services can optimize your health. - [Traditional Chinese Medicine Herbs List to Improve Overall Health](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/traditional-chinese-medicine-herbs-list-to-improve-overall-health/): Explore time-tested Chinese herbs like ginseng and reishi to restore balance, boost immunity, and enhance vitality. - [The Natural Approach to Sustainable Weight Loss: What You Need to Know](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/the-natural-approach-to-sustainable-weight-loss-what-you-need-to-know/): Discover a natural, sustainable approach to weight loss that targets root causes and supports long-term health success. - [Benefits of Turmeric](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/benefits-of-turmeric/): Discover the powerful health benefits of turmeric, including its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties for wellness. - [Three Essential Lab Tests Anyone With Endometriosis Should Know About](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/three-essential-lab-tests-anyone-with-endometriosis-should-know-about/): If you’re looking for support to overcome endometriosis pain and get back to living the life you love, book a free discovery call with Dr. Despina Michailidis, ND at Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic - [Understanding the Role of Natural Therapy in Pain Management](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/understanding-the-role-of-natural-therapy-in-pain-management/): Explore how trusted naturopaths Toronto residents choose to provide drug-free pain relief with personalized, holistic care tailored to your healing journey. - [How Acupuncture Helps Relieve Stress and Anxiety Naturally](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/how-acupuncture-helps-relieve-stress-and-anxiety-naturally/): Explore how acupuncture supports your stress management program by reducing anxiety, easing chronic stress, and restoring inner calm, naturally and effectively. - [How Personalized Nutrition Plans Can Help Manage Digestive Issues?](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/how-personalized-nutrition-plans-can-help-manage-digestive-issues/): Digestive issues are more common than ever. From bloating and acid reflux to IBS and food sensitivities, millions of people... - [When to Seek Fertility Support: Signs It’s Time to See a Specialist?](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/when-to-seek-fertility-support-signs-its-time-to-see-a-specialist/): Almost everyone dreams of building a family, but when it doesn’t happen as planned, the struggle can feel isolating. If... - [The Most Important Mineral: Magnesium](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/the-most-important-mineral-magnesium/): Magnesium is often referred to as the “master mineral” due to its essential role in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. Despite its importance, many people are magnesium-deficient, which can contribute to a wide range of health issues. - [IV Vitamin Therapy for Athletes: How It Helps Performance and Recovery?](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/iv-vitamin-therapy-for-athletes-how-it-helps-performance-and-recovery/): Athletes try many strategies to push their limits, recover faster, and stay at peak performance. After an intense workout, when... - [My 5-Day Juice Cleanse Experience: A Reset for Body and Mind](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/my-5-day-juice-cleanse-experience-a-reset-for-body-and-mind/): Explore the benefits of a 5-day juice cleanse for detoxifying your body and refreshing your mind. Read about my personal experience and results here. - [10 Surprising Benefits of Facial Acupuncture Beyond Skincare](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/10-surprising-benefits-of-facial-acupuncture-beyond-skincare/): Facial rejuvenation treatment offers more than skincare benefits. Check how facial rejuvenation acupuncture relieves stress and enhances circulation & wellness. - [Facial Acupuncture vs. Botox: Which One is Better for Anti-Aging?](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/facial-acupuncture-vs-botox-which-one-is-better-for-anti-aging/): The search for youthful, glowing skin can sometimes feel like chasing a mirage. With the global anti-aging market projected to... - [Endometriosis: Supporting Your Immune System to Thrive](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/endometriosis-supporting-your-immune-system-to-thrive/): Learn how supporting your immune system can help manage endometriosis. Explore natural approaches to boost immunity and improve well-being at Hygeia. - [Everything you need to know about Vitamin D](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-vitamin-d/): Discover the importance of Vitamin D for your health. Learn about its benefits, sources, and how to ensure you’re getting enough at Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic. - [Endometriosis: Why Half the Battle is in the Microbiome](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/endometriosis-why-half-the-battle-is-in-the-microbiome/): Find how the microbiome plays a key role in managing endometriosis. Discover insights and natural approaches to support your health at Hygeia Naturopathic. - [How Naturopathic Doctors Use Nutrition as a Healing Tool](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/how-naturopathic-doctors-use-nutrition-as-a-healing-tool/): Discover how naturopathic doctors use nutrition as a powerful tool to promote healing and restore optimal health - [Endometriosis: A Naturopathic Primer](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/endometriosis-a-naturopathic-primer/): Learn about endometriosis from a naturopathic perspective. Explore holistic approaches to managing pain and improving quality of life. - [Thyroid dysfunction: Do you suspect something is wrong with yours?](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/thyroid-dysfunction-do-you-suspect-something-is-wrong-with-yours/): Suspect a thyroid issue? Learn the signs, symptoms, and natural approaches to support a healthy thyroid function. - [Embrace the Beauty of Fall While Caring for Your Skin!](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/embrace-the-beauty-of-fall-while-caring-for-your-skin/): Embrace the beauty of fall while protecting your skin. Get tips for maintaining a healthy, glowing complexion during the cooler months - [Embrace the Energy of Fall: Health Preservation Tips from Traditional Chinese Medicine](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/embrace-the-energy-of-fall-health-preservation-tips-from-traditional-chinese-medicine/): Preserve your health this fall with traditional Chinese medicine tips. Align with the season's energy for balance and vitality. - [Sauna Therapy](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/sauna-therapy/): Explore the benefits of sauna therapy, from detoxification to stress relief. Discover how it can support your overall well-being - [Gut Health Series: Stomach Acid](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/gut-health-series-stomach-acid/): Understand the importance of stomach acid for digestion and health. Learn how to support a balanced digestive system naturally. - [Gut Health Series: GERD](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/gut-health-series-gerd/): Discover natural strategies to manage GERD and improve digestive health. Explore the root causes of acid reflux and solutions that work. - [Nutrition Series: Facts about Fat](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/nutrition-series-facts-about-fat/): Separate myths from facts about dietary fat. Learn which fats to include for better health and which to avoid - [The Hidden Culprit: Exploring the Connection Between Biofilms and Recurrent UTIs](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/the-hidden-culprit-exploring-the-connection-between-biofilms-and-recurrent-utis/): Explore the connection between biofilms and recurrent UTIs. Discover how addressing hidden culprits can help prevent infections. - [How to avoid sugar crash during Halloween](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/how-to-avoid-sugar-crash-during-halloween/): Get tips to enjoy Halloween treats without the dreaded sugar crash. Keep your energy stable while indulging in the festivities! - [Nutrition Series: What you need to know about carbohydrates](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/nutrition-series-what-you-need-to-know-about-carbohydrates/): Learn the truth about carbohydrates, their role in your diet, and how to choose the healthiest options for sustained energy - [Nutrition Series: Protein in a nutshell](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/nutrition-series-protein-in-a-nutshell/): Understand the importance of protein for overall health. Get tips on selecting high-quality sources to meet your body's needs - [Lifestyle Genomics – the Ultimate in Biohacking](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/lifestyle-genomics-the-ultimate-in-biohacking/): Unlock the power of lifestyle genomics to optimize your health and performance. Learn how to use biohacking for personalized wellness. - [Does your prenatal measure up? Why choosing a prenatal with methylfolate instead
of folic acid will improve pregnancy outcomes.](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/does-your-prenatal-measure-up-why-choosing-a-prenatal-with-methylfolate-insteadof-folic-acid-will-improve-pregnancy-outcomes/): Discover why choosing a prenatal vitamin with methylfolate instead of folic acid can improve pregnancy outcomes for you and your baby - [ADHD is not caused by a deficiency of Ritalin But some nutrients are lacking](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/adhd-is-not-caused-by-a-deficiency-of-ritalin-but-some-nutrients-are-lacking/): Learn how nutrient imbalances, not a lack of Ritalin, contribute to ADHD symptoms. Explore natural support options for better focus and health. - [Methylation: What and Why is this important to my child?](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/methylation-what-and-why-is-this-important-to-my-child/): Understand methylation and its importance for your child's health, development, and well-being. Learn how to support this vital process naturally! - [Acupuncture in Women’s Health ](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/acupuncture-in-womens-health/): Discover how acupuncture supports women's health by addressing hormonal balance, fertility, and overall well-being. Learn more in this insightful blog! - [Insulin Resistance: Could This Be the Culprit for Your Acne, Weight gain, and Irregular/Painful Periods (and so much more!)? ](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/insulin-resistance-could-this-be-the-culprit-for-your-acne-weight-gain-and-irregular-painful-periods-and-so-much-more/): Explore the link between insulin resistance and acne, weight gain, painful periods, and more. Uncover natural solutions to improve your health! - [Spring forward to treat and relieve your Spring Allergies](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/spring-forward-to-treat-and-relieve-your-spring-allergies/): Learn how to treat and relieve spring allergies naturally with effective tips and remedies. Embrace the season without discomfort! - [Live Webinar - The missing link to optimal health](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/live-webinar/): Join our live webinar to explore naturopathic insights and holistic health tips. Learn practical strategies for better well-being! - [Get Relief from Allergies and Sensitivities](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/get-relief-from-allergies-and-sensitivities/): A healthy gut is a crucial part of maintaining your overall health. It seems today that many diseases and health concerns have root in an imbalanced gut. - [Your Gut and Your Health](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/your-gut-and-your-health/): A healthy gut is a crucial part of maintaining your overall health. It seems today that many diseases and health concerns have root in an imbalanced gut. - [The Foundations of Health – The Gut (Webinar)](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/the-foundations-of-health-the-gut-webinar/): Check out Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R.Ac talk gut health on this webinar - [Healthy Weight](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/healthy-weight/): What is weight? What do we mean when we have gained weight? As a noun it is defined as the body’s relative mass or the quantity of matter contained by it, giving rise to a downward force, the heaviness of a person or thing. As a verb it is defined as to attach importance or value to something. - [Understanding the Thyroid Gland](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/understanding-the-thyroid-gland/): The thyroid gland sits in the front of your neck, and is split into two lobes on either side, connected by a bridge which we will call an isthmus. - [Medical work in Haiti](https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/medical-work-in-haiti/): In April of 2011 I had the opportunity to travel to Haiti and work at a free medical clinic located in the outskirts of Mourne Rouge. --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages ### Naturopathic Doctors in Toronto > Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - Published: 2025-04-11 - Modified: 2025-05-13 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-doctors-in-toronto/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Top-Rated Naturopathic Doctors in Toronto – Your Guide to Wellness Modern healthcare often focuses on symptom management, but true healing requires a deeper, whole-body approach. Naturopathic medicine blends scientific research with natural therapies to address the root cause of health concerns, promoting long-term wellness. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, our team of naturopathic doctors in Toronto provides personalized treatment plans designed to support the body's natural ability to heal. Whether managing chronic conditions, optimizing gut health, or reducing stress, we use a combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture, clinical nutrition, herbal medicine, IV therapy, and homeopathy to restore balance and improve overall well-being. Why Choose a Naturopathic Doctor in Toronto? Naturopathic medicine focuses on treating the whole person rather than just symptoms. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, our approach is rooted in the Five Pillars of Health, which include: Nutrition – Personalized dietary plans to optimize health and prevent disease Gut Health – Addressing food sensitivities, IBS, and digestive disorders Hormonal Balance – Supporting endocrine function, including thyroid and adrenal health  Movement & Rest Equilibrium – Restoring energy and physical well-being Cognitive Health – Managing stress, anxiety, and mental clarity Our team of top naturopathic doctors near you helps individuals take control of their health through natural therapies, lifestyle changes, and evidence-based treatments. Experienced Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner– Restoring Balance Naturally Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been practiced for centuries to restore balance and promote natural healing. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, our traditional Chinese practitioners in Toronto use a combination of... --- ### Naturopathic Doctors in East York > Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - Published: 2025-04-11 - Modified: 2025-05-13 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-doctors-in-east-york/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Best Naturopathic Doctors in East York: Natural Health Solutions Health and well-being go beyond just treating symptoms. Naturopathic doctors in East York focus on identifying and addressing the root cause of health concerns, promoting long-term wellness through natural and holistic approaches. By integrating modern research with traditional healing methods, they provide personalized care that supports the body's ability to heal itself. Naturopathic Medicine Focuses on Whole-Body Approach to Health True wellness comes from a balance of physical, mental, and emotional health. Our naturopathic medicine in East York is based on the philosophy that the body has an innate ability to heal when given the right support. Instead of just managing symptoms, naturopathic practitioners look at overall lifestyle, diet, stress levels, and environmental factors to create a comprehensive treatment plan. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, this whole-body approach is guided by the Five Pillars of Health, which include: Nutrition – Providing essential nutrients for optimal body function Gut Health – Supporting digestion and microbiome balance for overall well-being Hormonal Balance – Addressing imbalances that affect metabolism, mood, and reproductive health Movement and Rest – Encouraging a balance between physical activity and relaxation Cognitive Well-being – Managing mental health and reducing stress through natural therapies By incorporating these core principles, naturopathic care provides a solid foundation for long-term health and vitality. Naturopaths in East York Provides a Wide Range of Treatments Every individual has unique health needs, which is why naturopaths in East York offer a variety of treatment options that can be... --- ### Naturopathic Doctors in North York > Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - Published: 2025-04-11 - Modified: 2025-05-13 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-doctors-in-north-york/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Heal Naturally with a Leading Naturopathic Doctor in North York True health comes from balance, prevention, and supporting the body’s natural healing processes. Our naturopathic doctors in North York focus on treating the root cause of health concerns rather than just addressing symptoms. Through evidence-based, personalized care, naturopathic medicine empowers individuals to achieve long-term wellness. Naturopathic Medicine in North York for Comprehensive Care Taking a holistic approach, naturopathic medicine combines modern science with natural therapies to restore and maintain health. Rather than masking symptoms, treatments aim to strengthen the body's ability to heal and function optimally. Key focus areas include: Clinical nutrition – Customized dietary strategies to enhance digestion, boost energy, and support immune function. Gut health – Targeted plans to address bloating, food sensitivities, and irritable bowel syndrome. Hormonal balance – Natural therapies to regulate thyroid health, menstrual cycles, and adrenal function. Movement and rest equilibrium – Guidance on achieving a healthy balance between physical activity and recovery. Cognitive and emotional well-being – Support for stress management, mood stabilization, and mental clarity. These foundations help individuals seeking naturopathic medicine in North York find sustainable health solutions tailored to their unique needs. Acupuncture in North York for Pain Management and Stress Relief Acupuncture is a well-established therapy that promotes healing, reduces pain, and enhances overall well-being. Acupuncture in North York is commonly used for: Chronic pain relief (back, neck, and joint pain) Headache and migraine management Digestive concerns Hormonal support Stress reduction and emotional balance Sports injury recovery Specialized acupuncture... --- ### Heavy Metal Test > Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - Published: 2025-04-11 - Modified: 2025-05-12 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/heavy-metal-test/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Heavy Metal Lab Testing: What It Detects and Why You Need It Exposure to heavy metals is an often-overlooked factor that can seriously affect long-term health. Everyday contact with contaminated air, water, food, and consumer products allows toxic metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic to enter the body. Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic offers heavy metal test services to help identify these dangerous toxins and understand their potential role in chronic symptoms such as fatigue, memory issues, headaches, and digestive discomfort. The testing process involves analyzing biological samples, which helps determine both recent and long-term exposure. By offering different types of analysis, including heavy metal hair test and laboratory-based screening, Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic ensures each patient receives the right approach based on their unique exposure history and symptoms. Importance Of Heavy Metal Hair Test For Long-Term Exposure Some metals accumulate slowly over time, building up in body tissues like hair. This is why doing a  heavy metal hair test is particularly useful for detecting long-term exposure that may not appear in bloodwork. Hair analysis helps create a timeline, showing how metals have entered the body and whether they continue to accumulate. Hair testing provides valuable data for anyone with suspected chronic exposure due to work environments, polluted living conditions, or regular contact with contaminated food or water. Since the body uses hair to eliminate certain toxins, this test acts like a natural record of past exposure. What To Expect During A Heavy Metal Lab Test The heavy metal lab test offered by... --- ### Stool Sample Test > Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - Published: 2025-04-11 - Modified: 2025-05-12 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/stool-sample-test/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Is Your Digestion Causing Daily Discomfort? Here’s How Stool Testing Can Help Digestive health plays a vital role in maintaining overall wellness. When symptoms such as gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or indigestion persist, they often indicate imbalances or disruptions within the digestive system. Through stool testing, healthcare providers can assess the root causes of these symptoms by analyzing your gut’s microbial balance and digestive function. This comprehensive testing helps identify harmful bacteria, yeast, and fungi, while also evaluating your body’s ability to digest and absorb nutrients efficiently. Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic offers advanced stool testing services to help patients uncover hidden digestive issues. By examining the gut microbiome, we gather valuable data that supports customized treatment plans aimed at restoring digestive balance and improving overall health. Stool Sample Test Provides Key Insights Into Gut Health A stool sample test is a valuable tool for understanding how your digestive system functions. This test evaluates the presence and balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria, detects fungal overgrowth, and measures key markers of inflammation. It provides a clear picture of your gut health and helps explain why symptoms such as irregular bowel movements, bloating, or nutrient deficiencies may occur. Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic uses stool sample tests to assess not only the microbiome but also digestive enzyme activity and the presence of undigested food particles. These insights allow us to identify potential food sensitivities, malabsorption issues, or inflammatory conditions affecting gut health. By addressing these issues with targeted therapies, we can help patients restore proper... --- ### Food Sensitivity Testing > Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - Published: 2025-04-11 - Modified: 2025-05-12 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/food-sensitivity-testing/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Take Control Of Your Health With Personalized Food Sensitivity Screening Food sensitivities can contribute to a wide range of chronic symptoms, often without people realizing the connection between their diet and how they feel. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we offer food sensitivity testing to help identify these problematic foods, giving our patients clarity about what may be affecting their health. This type of testing focuses on immune responses that may contribute to symptoms like bloating, skin irritation, fatigue, headaches, and digestive discomfort. We use advanced diagnostic tools, including a food sensitivity blood test, to assess how your immune system reacts to different foods. Understanding these responses allows us to recommend dietary changes tailored to your body’s specific needs, helping you reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and enhance overall well-being. The Difference Between Food Sensitivity And Food Tolerance Testing It’s important to understand the distinction between food sensitivity testing and food tolerance testing, as the terms are often used interchangeably but represent different processes. Food tolerance testing focuses more on digestive enzyme deficiencies, such as the inability to break down lactose or gluten. This type of intolerance typically causes immediate digestive symptoms after eating certain foods. In contrast, our food sensitivity test looks at immune responses where certain foods trigger low-grade inflammation over time. These delayed responses can show up hours or even days after consuming the food, making them difficult to identify without proper testing. By offering both food tolerance testing and comprehensive food sensitivity testing, Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic helps patients... --- ### Hormone Urine Testing > Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - Published: 2025-04-11 - Modified: 2025-05-12 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/hormone-urine-testing/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Book Your Hormone Urine Testing and Get Personalized Health Insights Hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, mood, energy levels, reproductive health, and overall well-being. Imbalances can lead to fatigue, weight fluctuations, sleep disturbances, and other health concerns. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we offer hormone urine testing to assess hormone function comprehensively. This non-invasive method provides valuable insights into hormonal fluctuations and patterns, allowing for targeted, personalized treatment plans. Our approach ensures an in-depth analysis of hormonal activity rather than a simple snapshot. Unlike standard blood tests, which measure hormones at a single point in time, urine-based hormone testing evaluates fluctuations over 24 hours, offering a broader perspective on how hormones are produced, metabolized, and eliminated by the body. Dried Urine Hormone Test for a Detailed Hormonal Profile One of the most effective ways to assess hormone levels is through a dried urine hormone test. This test measures key hormones and their metabolites, providing a clearer picture of how hormones function throughout the day. It is particularly useful for evaluating reproductive hormones, adrenal function, and overall endocrine health. The dried urine test for comprehensive hormones assesses: Estrogen and its metabolites – Understanding estrogen metabolism helps identify risks for hormonal imbalances, including estrogen dominance or deficiency. Progesterone – Essential for menstrual cycle regulation and fertility support. Testosterone and DHEA – Evaluates androgen levels related to energy, libido, and muscle mass. Cortisol patterns – Tracks adrenal function and stress response. Melatonin – Measures sleep-wake cycle regulation. This method involves collecting urine... --- ### Organic Acid Testing > Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - Published: 2025-04-11 - Modified: 2025-05-12 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/organic-acid-testing/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Struggling With Fatigue, Gut Issues, or Mood Swings? Urine Organic Acid Test Can Help Organic acid testing plays a critical role in assessing metabolic function, gut health, and nutrient absorption. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we use organic acid testing to uncover underlying imbalances that may contribute to chronic fatigue, digestive complaints, mood disturbances, or nutrient deficiencies. This test evaluates organic acids—metabolic byproducts produced by the body—which offer valuable insights into biochemical pathways, including energy production, neurotransmitter function, and detoxification. Unlike traditional blood work, organic acid testing goes beyond routine panels, offering a deeper understanding of your body's internal processes. It helps identify issues related to gut dysbiosis, oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and nutrient metabolism. Urine organic acid test results allow our practitioners to create personalized treatment strategies, ensuring each plan addresses your unique health needs. Urine Organic Acid Test And Its Significance For Metabolic Assessment While the urine organic acid test exists, most practitioners, including those at Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, recommend the urine test for organic acids due to its higher diagnostic accuracy. Organic acids concentrate in urine, offering a more comprehensive view of metabolic markers than blood samples. This test serves as a valuable tool for identifying yeast and bacterial overgrowth, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and even imbalances linked to thyroid health. Patients struggling with persistent fatigue, unexplained weight gain, mood swings, or chronic digestive issues can benefit significantly from the organic acid profile test. By understanding how your body processes nutrients and eliminates waste, we can identify the... --- ### Serum Blood Testing > Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - Published: 2025-04-11 - Modified: 2025-05-12 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/serum-blood-testing/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Serum Electrophoresis Blood Test for Proactive Health – Know More, Live Better At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we believe that preventive care starts with understanding the intricate details of your health. One of the essential diagnostic tools we use is serum blood testing, a reliable way to assess overall health and detect potential imbalances. This type of blood test helps us measure different substances present in your blood serum — the clear, liquid part of blood left after clotting. Through serum electrophoresis blood test, we can evaluate key health markers, including proteins, electrolytes, enzymes, and waste products like urea. These insights allow our practitioners to recommend personalized treatment plans that align with our holistic approach, addressing the root cause of health concerns rather than just managing symptoms. Whether you want to monitor kidney function, check for chronic conditions, or track your nutritional status, this comprehensive test plays a crucial role in guiding your care journey at Hygeia. How Serum Urea Blood Test Helps Assess Kidney and Metabolic Health Among the different serum blood testing options available at Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, the serum urea blood test holds particular importance for evaluating kidney function and metabolic health. Urea is a waste product formed when the body breaks down proteins. Normally, healthy kidneys filter urea out of the blood and excrete it through urine. However, when kidney function declines, urea levels in the blood rise. By conducting a serum urea blood test, we can assess how well your kidneys are performing and whether your... --- ### Hormone Saliva Testing > Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - Published: 2025-04-11 - Modified: 2025-05-12 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing/hormone-saliva-testing/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Struggling With Weight, Sleep, or Mood? Consider a Hormone Spit Test Hormonal health plays a crucial role in maintaining energy, mood, metabolism, and overall vitality. When hormones become imbalanced, symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, weight changes, and reproductive issues can appear. One reliable way to assess these imbalances is through hormone saliva testing. This non-invasive, patient-friendly test measures hormone levels directly from saliva, giving clear insights into hormonal fluctuations throughout the day. Compared to traditional blood tests, saliva testing for hormonal diagnosis focuses on free, bioavailable hormones—the ones actively influencing tissues and functions. This makes hormone saliva testing particularly useful when assessing stress hormones, reproductive hormones, and adrenal function. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we use this approach to better understand the underlying causes of hormone-related symptoms, ensuring treatments are accurately tailored to each patient’s needs. Why Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic Uses Saliva Testing To Assess Hormones Our team values diagnostic tools that are both effective and comfortable for patients, and saliva testing for hormonal diagnosis meets both criteria. Scientific research recognizes saliva test for hormone accuracy for measuring free hormone levels, the biologically active hormones responsible for symptoms. Unlike blood tests that measure total hormone levels—including bound hormones that may not be in use—hormone spit test focuses only on free hormones circulating in saliva. This direct insight helps our practitioners develop precise treatment plans, whether addressing menopause, adrenal fatigue, fertility, or stress management. Additionally, saliva samples can be collected multiple times during the day, which is particularly beneficial when evaluating hormones... --- ### Thank you - Published: 2025-04-02 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/thank-you-for-contacting/ Thank you for contacting us, we will get back to you soon. --- ### Thank you - Published: 2025-04-02 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/thank-you/ Thank you for contacting us, we will get back to you soon. --- ### Sitemap - Published: 2025-02-07 - Modified: 2025-02-07 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/sitemap/ Home About us Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R. Ac Meet the Team Patient’s Consultation Fees The Clinic Blog  Contact Events & Webinars FAQ Hygeia’s New Patients My account Naturopathic Glossary Hygeia’s Cupping Treatment Hygeia’s Ear Acupuncture Treatment Hygeia’s Gua Sha Treatment Hygeia’s Moxibustion or Moxa Treatment Hygeia’s TDP Heat Lamp Treatment Hygeia’s Tui Na Massage Services Programs Corporate Wellness Program Fertility Program Gut Health Program Healthy Aging Program Healthy Lifestyle Program Nutrition Program Pain Management Program Sports Recovery and Endurance Program Stress and Fatigue Program Weight Loss Program Shop Treatments Balance and Glow Body Acupressure Treatment Balance and Glow Facial Acupressure Treatment Biodentical Hormones Hygeia’s Clinical Nutrition Services Hygeia’s Cold Immersion/Plunge Baths Hygeia’s Electrical Stimulation of the Acupuncture Needles Treatment Hygeia’s Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture Treatment Hygeia’s Herbal/Botanical Medicine Services Hygeia’s Homeopathic Medicine Services Hygeia’s Hydrotherapy Treatment Hygeia’s Infrared Sauna Services Hygeia’s Kinesiotaping Treatment Hygeia’s Live Cell Analysis Services Hygeia’s Muscle Energy Stretching Treatment Hygeia’s Naturopathic Medicine Services Hygeia’s Peat Hyperthermic Bath Services Hygeia’s Seminars and Lectures Hygeia’s Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Services  IV Therapy and Injections Laboratory Testing Services Physical Medicine Services --- ### Events & Webinars > Join Hygeia events and webinars to learn about holistic health, nutrition, and wellness. Explore our upcoming schedule here. - Published: 2024-11-22 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/hygeia-events/ See Hygeia Clinic's past events and register to upcoming ones: View all our event's recordings on our YouTube Channel --- ### Checkout - Published: 2024-05-08 - Modified: 2024-05-08 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/checkout/ --- ### My account - Published: 2024-05-08 - Modified: 2024-05-08 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/my-account/ --- ### Cart - Published: 2024-05-08 - Modified: 2024-05-08 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/cart/ You may be interested in... Your cart is currently empty! New in store --- ### Shop > Browse our collection of natural health and wellness products, including bath salts, room sprays, and specialty items. - Published: 2024-05-08 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/shop/ --- ### Balance and Glow Body Acupressure Treatment > Hygeia offers expert Chinese glow body acupressure treatment to restore balance and relieve pain. Visit our acupressure clinic for full-body therapy. Book today! - Published: 2024-01-16 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/balance-and-glow-body-acupressure-treatment/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Welcome to a realm of holistic rejuvenation and ancient healing practices, where our unique service seamlessly weaves together the therapeutic benefits of body acupressure, cupping therapy, and full-body stretching. Step into a sanctuary where time-honored traditions converge with contemporary wellness for a transcendent experience. Our skilled practitioners begin with body acupressure, applying precise pressure to key meridian points, unlocking the body's natural energy flow. This age-old technique, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, promotes balance, relieves tension, and enhances overall vitality. As the journey unfolds, experience the therapeutic wonders of cupping therapy. Gentle suction created by specialized cups is applied to the skin, stimulating blood circulation, releasing muscle knots, and encouraging the body's natural detoxification process. This centuries-old practice is known for its ability to alleviate pain and promote a profound sense of relaxation. Complementing these techniques is our full-body stretching session—an artful blend of gentle movements designed to enhance flexibility, improve posture, and release deep-seated tension. Feel the rejuvenating effects as your body unwinds, fostering a renewed sense of balance and well-being. This comprehensive fusion of body acupressure, cupping, and full-body stretching creates a symphony of therapeutic benefits, addressing both physical and energetic aspects of your well-being. It's an invitation to harmonize mind and body, encouraging a profound release of tension, increased flexibility, and an overall sense of revitalization. Immerse yourself in this transcendent journey, where the ancient wisdom of Eastern therapies converges with modern wellness, and experience the transformative power of our signature service. Rediscover your body's natural harmony... --- ### Balance and Glow Facial Acupressure Treatment > Experience the rejuvenating touch of Hygeia’s acupressure facial massage. Stimulate facial pressure points for glowing skin. Book today for ultimate relaxation! - Published: 2024-01-16 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/balance-and-glow-facial-acupressure-treatment/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Welcome to our rejuvenating oasis, where the ancient wisdom of Eastern wellness meets modern indulgence. Our signature service is a harmonious blend of facial acupressure, guasha and cupping, buccal massage, and head and neck massage—a comprehensive experience designed to elevate your well-being and enhance your natural beauty. Embark on a journey of self-discovery as our skilled practitioners expertly combine the art of facial cupping and guasha with acupressure techniques. Facial guasha, a centuries-old Chinese practice, involves gently scraping the skin alongside facial cupping to stimulate circulation and encourage the flow of Qi, promoting a radiant complexion and reducing tension. Paired with acupressure, which targets key energy points, this combination works to harmonize your body's energy flow and rejuvenate your skin from within. Our buccal massage technique is a luxurious addition to the experience, focusing on the muscles around the mouth and jawline. This specialized massage not only promotes a more contoured appearance but also relieves tension, leaving you with a relaxed and revitalized feeling. As the journey unfolds, surrender to the soothing touch of our head massage—a serene interlude that melts away stress and tension. Your therapist will expertly manipulate pressure points, releasing stored tension and promoting a deep sense of relaxation. Indulge in our comprehensive service, where each element seamlessly complements the others, creating a holistic and transformative experience. Let the power of ancient traditions and modern techniques come together to unveil a more radiant, balanced, and rejuvenated version of yourself. Elevate your senses, restore your glow, and embrace... --- ### Biodentical Hormones > Hygeia offers expert bioidentical hormone replacement therapy in Toronto. Restore balance and vitality with personalized treatment. Book today! - Published: 2023-08-16 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/biodentical-hormones/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar What are hormones? A hormone is a chemical messenger in the body. Bio-identical hormones (BHT) are structurally the same as our body’s own hormones. Because these hormones are naturally accepted by the body, they are easily used and broken down and hence the side effects are minimized. Who needs them? Bio-identical Hormones are helpful for women to ease the symptoms of menopause, perimenopause, and post-menopause. Some of the symptoms may include mood changes, irritability, memory loss, weight gain, decreased sex drive, depression, bloating, insomnia, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, night sweats, and fatigue. Some women who suffer from symptoms of PMS or ovarian cysts will also benefit from bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. BHT is helpful for men as well. Symptoms of low testosterone and DHEA can cause weight gain, low libido, decreased energy, and sense of well-being. Do I have to use hormones for menopausal symptoms? Absolutely not, many therapeutic grade herbal or nutritional supplements can work well for menopausal symptoms. Testing for Hormones Testing is often recommended at the beginning of treatment and then to monitor treatment. This can be done with a saliva test or blood test. What’s involved? A consultation is needed to get started. Our Naturopathic Practitioners investigate and support each individual based on health and need. Each patient receives a custom blend of hormones and/or natural supplementation to meet their specific needs. A Hormone Panel test may be indicated by our practitioner to determine your present hormone levels and individualized treatment protocol. --- ### IV Therapy and Injections > Boost your wellness with IV vitamin therapy at Hygeia, Toronto’s top IV clinic. Rehydrate, recharge, and feel your best. Book today for a revitalizing vitamin drip! - Published: 2023-08-16 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/iv-therapy-and-injections/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar What is IV Nutrient Therapy? IV Therapy stands for Intravenous Therapy which means nutrients like Vitamin C, B Vitamins and similar are infused through the vein, thereby bypassing the digestive system. IV therapy is a safe and effective way to deliver therapeutic dosages of vitamins, minerals and amino acids in a way that optimizes absorption. Why an IV and not a pill? Nutrients can be absorbed faster when they enter the body directly into the bloodstream. When we ingest nutrients, like we do with our food or pills, they must go through the digestive tract before being absorbed. That means we don’t feel the effects as fast. Our IV naturopathic Practitioner can create individualized nutrient blends that are helpful for fatigue and exhaustion, nutrient repletion, digestive issues, athletic performance and recovery, immune support, detoxification support and optimizing your health care. How long does it takes for an IV nutrient session? The average IV nutrient therapy takes 45 minutes to 60 minutes (sometimes more) Who can get a Nutrient IV? If you want to learn more about IV therapy and how it might be for you, contact the clinic to book your appointment with one of Naturopathic Doctors. A full assessment, blood work evaluation is required to assess your health, understand your health goals and find an individualized formula based on your needs. Our IV Naturopathic Doctor also offers high dose intravenous Vitamin C therapy which is supportive in adjunctive cancer care as well as for other health issues such as... --- ### Nutrition Program > At Hygeia, we have registered nutritionists in Toronto to run nutrition programs for nutrition and lifestyle coaching. Contact us for holistic nutrition programs! - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-04-15 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/nutrition-program/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Certified Nutrition Practitioners in Toronto for Optimal Health Nutrition is one of the foundational pillars of health and wellness. As the saying says, we are what we eat. To be healthy, prevent disease and optimize our health, nutrition is key player involved in all three aspects. At HygeiaNaturopathic Clinic we are here to help you understand your current nutrition and work with you to not only make it easy and enjoyable, but additionally nourishing for your own health. Our Certified nutritional practitioners and naturopathic doctorstake on an individualized approach and our team works together to provide in person and on-going care that you can integrate into your daily life. Comprehensive Nutrition Programs for Holistic Wellness Our nutrition program in Toronto is designed to support your unique health goals. Through nutritional andlifestyle coaching, we assess your: Dietary habits Nutritional intake Lifestyle choices Based on your assessment, our registered nutritionists in Toronto will develop a customized meal plan that incorporates whole, natural foods to support long-term health and vitality. Hormone Assessments for Metabolic Health by Registered Nutritionists The connection between diet, environment, and lifestyle can significantly affect hormone balance and metabolism. These factors influence: Mood regulation Energy levels Fat-burning efficiency By taking stock of yourhormone levelsand metabolism, we can begin to correct the disharmonies that are preventing you from achieving your health and wellness goals. Our holistic nutrition programs provide strategies to restore balance and enhance overall well-being Food Sensitivity Assessmentto Reduce Inflammation Many of us regularly and unknowingly eat foods that... --- ### Hygeia's Tui Na Massage Services > In Tui Na massage, the muscles and tendons are massaged with the help of hands, and an acupressure technique is applied to directly affect the flow of Qi at different acupressure points of the body, thus facilitating the healing process. - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2023-01-16 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/hygeias-tui-na-massage-services/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar In Tui Na massage, the muscles and tendons are massaged with the help of hands, and an acupressure technique is applied to directly affect the flow of Qi at different acupressure points of the body, thus facilitating the healing process. To those who’ve experienced both acupressure and Shiatsu, a Tui Na session may seem like a cross between the two. Like Shiatsu, Tui Na uses rhythmic compression along energy channels of the body, as well as a variety of techniques that manipulate and lubricate the joints. Like acupressure, Tui Na directly affects the flow of energy by holding and pressing the body at acupressure points. To a Westerner, Tui Na is the form of Asian bodywork most closely resembling conventional western massage. Despite the similarities, the intent of Tui Na is more specifically therapeutic than the simple relaxation of a Swedish-style massage. One of Tui Na’s advantages over simple massage is its ability to focus on specific problems, especially chronic pain associated with the muscles, joints, and skeletal system. It’s especially effective for joint pain (such as arthritis), sciatica, muscle spasms, and pain in the back, neck, and shoulders. It also helps chronic conditions such as insomnia, constipation, headaches (including migraines), and the tension associated with stress. Tui Na does not simply work on the muscles, bones, and joints. It works with the energy of the body at a deeper level. As the practitioner senses the client’s body with their hands, they are able to assess the distribution of energy and affect its flow.... --- ### Hygeia's TDP Heat Lamp Treatment > The point of the TDP lamp is to reproduce this radiant effect in a dramatically more powerful and reproducible manner. - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2023-01-16 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/hygeias-tdp-heat-lamp-treatment/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar The traditional Chinese medicine theory behind the operation of TDP lamps is based on the radiant electromagnetic frequencies that the healthy human body makes. A segment of this infrared spectrum comes from the sun, but some is blocked by the atmosphere. Some people who have studied energetic healing techniques can focus the radiant energy of the human body to affect another person. The point of the TDP lamp is to reproduce this radiant effect in a dramatically more powerful and reproducible manner. Infrared “light” is too low a frequency to be seen with your eyes, but you can feel it, as you can when you stand near a stove. There are well-known benefits to warming an injured area or strained muscle, the way soaking in a hot bath can soothe away aches and pains. The opposite is true that cold temperatures can aggravate joint pain, arthritis, and other illnesses. The TDP lamp has a penetrating heat that goes into the body 2 to 3. 5 inches. Additionally, it’s providing the full infrared spectrum emitted by the human body, including the part that is filtered out of sunshine by our atmosphere. Add to that the mineral plate excitation, and you have a very powerful tool for jump-starting the body’s repair processes. The simple mechanics of the TDP lamp’s heating action in stimulating natural body processes can most likely help with any condition where a boost in the body’s repair process is beneficial. Some patients anecdotally report 100% recovery, and most report... --- ### Hygeia's Moxibustion or Moxa Treatment > Moxibustion is a form of heat therapy in which dried plant materials called “moxa” are burned on or very near the surface of the skin. - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/hygeias-moxibustion-or-moxa-treatment/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar What is Moxibustion?   Moxibustion is a form of heat therapy in which dried plant materials called “moxa” are burned on or very near the surface of the skin. The intention is to warm and invigorate the flow of Qi in the body and dispel certain pathogenic influences. Moxa is usually made from the dried leafy material of Chinese mugwort but it can be made of other substances as well. Practitioners generally hold a burning moxa stick close to, but not touching, the surface of the skin.  In this method, the moxa material is compressed into a stick or pole, looking not unlike an oversized cigar that can be lit and allowed to smolder, producing a unique form of very penetrating heat.  The smoldering moxa stick is held over specific areas, often, though not always, corresponding to certain acupuncture points. The glowing end of the moxa stick is held about an inch or two above the surface of the skin until the area reddens and becomes suffused with warmth. What can I expect to feel? It is not uncommon for patients receiving moxibustion to report a sudden flooding of warmth that quickly radiates along a specific pathway (usually corresponding with the jing luo channel that is being treated) away from the site of application. This is a good result, as it indicates the arrival of the Qi and signals that the flow of Qi and xue has been freed in the channel. Moxibustion can be used for: Pain due to injury... --- ### Hygeia's Gua Sha Treatment > Gua sha is an ancient healing technique used by many clinicians of Traditional Chinese Medicine. - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/hygeias-gua-sha-treatment/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Gua sha is an ancient healing technique used by many clinicians of Traditional Chinese Medicine. In this procedure, a lubricating medium, such as massage oil, is applied to the skin of the area to be treated. A smooth-edged instrument is used by the acupuncturist to apply short or long strokes on the skin, typically in the area of pain or on the back parallel to the spine. This stroking motion creates raised redness or bruising. Pain, both acute and chronic, is the most common indication for gua sha. In the TCM tradition, pain is oftentimes caused by the stagnation of blood in the local area of discomfort. The guiding principle behind gua sha is that this technique has the ability to break up stagnation, to promote the smooth flow of blood in the area, thereby relieving pain. While gua sha is most commonly used to treat pain, it can also be utilized by TCM clinicians to address conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, colds, flu, fever, heatstroke, fibromyalgia, strains, sprains, and muscle spasms. There are several theories that may explain why this ancient technique works: gua sha increases blood flow (microcirculation) in the soft tissue, potentially stimulates the body’s natural pain-relieving opioid systems, and it may block the pain response pathways so you feel pain relief. Book now --- ### Hygeia's Ear Acupuncture Treatment > Ear acupuncture, also known as auricular therapy, is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2023-01-16 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/hygeias-ear-acupuncture-treatment/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Ear acupuncture, also known as auricular therapy, is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Auricular therapy is widely used for many conditions, including addiction treatment, mood disorders, obesity, pain, and other conditions. This medical system emphasizes a holistic approach to medicine, an approach that treats the whole person. The acupuncture points found on the ear help to regulate the body’s internal organs, structures, and functions. Auricular therapy has a long history of use in China. It was mentioned in the most famous of ancient Chinese medical textbooks, “The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine. ” In modern times, auricular therapy has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s own feel-good chemicals. How is ear acupuncture used in a treatment? Ear acupuncture is generally incorporated into a regular acupuncture treatment. In addition to using acupuncture points on the rest of the body, your acupuncturist may select a few ear acupuncture points that they feel will be helpful for your particular condition. Ear acupuncture points may be stimulated for a longer period of time by using ear seeds or ear tacks. Ear seeds are small seeds from the Vac Caria plant. These seeds are held in place on the ear with a small piece of adhesive tape. Ear seeds may be left in the ear for a few days or up to two weeks. Ear tacks are very small needles with an adhesive backing. Ear tacks are inserted into the ear and left in the ear for a few... --- ### Hygeia's Cupping Treatment > Cupping was developed thousands of years ago and though the techniques have modernized, the original philosophy remains the same. - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2023-01-16 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/hygeias-cupping-treatment/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar One way to think about cupping is that it is the inverse of massage. Rather than applying pressure to muscles, the suction uses pressure to pull skin, tissue and muscles upward. I often combine cupping with acupuncture into one treatment, but it could also be used alone. Cupping was developed thousands of years ago and though the techniques have modernized, the original philosophy remains the same. Cupping involves placing glass cups on the skin and creating a vacuum by suctioning out the air using a pump or fire. The underlying tissue is raised, or sucked, partway into the cup. The purpose of cupping is to enhance circulation, help relieve pain, remove “heat” and pull out the toxins that linger in your body’s tissues. You usually will feel a tight sensation in the area of the cup. Often, this sensation is relaxing and soothing. Depending on your comfort and your practitioner’s assessment of the problem, cups may be moved around or left in place. They may remain on your body briefly or for longer amounts of time. Each treatment is unique to you on that particular day. One very common area to be cupped is the back, although cups work well on other areas, too — particularly on fleshy sections of the body. Cupping causes the skin to temporarily turn red, blue or purple, especially if there is an injury or energetic blockage under the area that was cupped. The skin discoloration can last anywhere from a few days to a... --- ### Naturopathic Glossary > Learn about terms and treatments about Naturopathic treatments - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2023-01-16 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/naturopathic-glossary/ --- ### Physical Medicine Services > Herbal medicine can be quite beneficial when treating various health concerns. While in the west, herbal medicine is used more often as single herbal remedies with some emphasis on combinations, Chinese Herbal Medicine makes almost exclusive use of herbal combinations. - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2023-01-16 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/traditional-chinese-herbal-medicine/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Tired of going in circles with your health? We are here to help you find the cause and provide tested solutions that work Break free from the vicious cycle of never feeling your best You’ve tried so many “natural” things, but have not found any real long-term solutions You need the support and guidance that will work for YOU You are ready to learn how to better support your body and create a healthier and happier life Benefits of Botanical/Herbal Medicine Herbal medicine can be quite beneficial when treating various health concerns. While in the west, herbal medicine is used more often as single herbal remedies with some emphasis on combinations, Chinese Herbal Medicine makes almost exclusive use of herbal combinations. The herbal formulas using Chinese Herbs are designed to treat the individual specifically rather than to treat the symptoms of a specific illness. The Chinese Medicine principles are applied, and the individual is treated according to their presentation and constitution. Chinese herbal medicine has a long historical tradition. According to the principles of Chinese Medicine, health exists when the body is balanced and its energy, the Qi, is flowing freely. This energy animates and invigorates the body. The balance is in relation to the balance of yin and yang and/or qi and blood. This balance is seen in the various “pathogens” that herbal medicine is set out to treat: heat vs cold, dampness vs dryness, descending vs ascending, rest vs active, and excess vs. deficiency. Understanding the harmony of... --- ### Seminars and Lectures > The health of your business relies on the health of your employees. Your organization’s most precious asset is then the health of its employees. - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/seminars-and-lectures/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar One of the tenets of naturopathic medicine is “Doctor as teacher”. As a strong believer in the doctor’s role in educating the wider community, Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R. Ac makes herself available to speak before small and large audiences about various health-related topics. Dr. Effy Germanis’ ND, R. Ac seminars are informative and engaging to people of all age groups and various levels of knowledge about health. If you would like Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R. Ac to speak before your group, organization, or school, please complete the form below. Book Now --- ### Peat Hyperthermic Bath Services > Get the benefits of a hyperthermic peat bath in Toronto with Hygeia. Rejuvenate with our premium peat hyperthermia therapy. Book today! - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/peat-hyperthermic-bath-services/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Peat baths are a type of hydrotherapy session that uses water for the purpose of healing. Peat baths also contain peat which consists of decomposed vegetable matter that is high in nutrients and minerals. What to Expect Peat baths involve full body submersion in the bath at therapeutic temperatures between 105 – 113 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 15 – 20 minutes. During this time the peat gently removes dead skin cells, enhances circulation and leaves the skin feeling soft and supple. Peat baths can help with improving range of motion, helping to relieve inflammation, promotes circulation, stimulates the immune system and can help break down fat cells. The bath is followed by a 30-minute wool blanket and sheet wrap to stimulate a vigorous perspiration process to complete detoxification. A full treatment can last up to 1 to 1. 5 hours. Book Now --- ### Muscle Energy Stretching Treatment > Relieve tension & improve mobility with Hygeia’s muscle energy stretching treatment. Target biceps, hamstrings, shoulders & more. Book today! - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/hygeias-muscle-energy-stretching-treatment/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar What is Muscle Energy Stretching? Muscle energy Testing is a non-invasive method of manual therapy that helps restore body balance in the soft tissues and skeletal structure. It uses precise positioning of the body in conjunction with very light muscle contractions to re-educate muscles whose dysfunctional tone distorts the body and causes asymmetry. The technique is gentle and can effectively relieve a variety of musculoskeletal dysfunctions by repositioning or mobilizing joints, reducing inflammation, lengthening short muscles, strengthening weak muscles, and relieving tissue congestion. How it Works? The technique is based on the theory of reciprocal inhibition, meaning that the muscles on one side of a joint relax when the muscles on the other side of the joint contract. The patient contracts his/her muscles to have the desired effect on the opposite side of the joint by pushing against pressure provided by therapist. Each contraction further stretches the muscle. Where it is used? Muscle Energy testing  has a wide range of applications, including the treatment of somatic dysfunction, decreased range of motion, scoliosis, sciatica, muscle pain and stiffness, muscular shortening, low back pain, muscle injury, respiratory dysfunction, tension, and uneven hips, legs, and arms. Book Now --- ### Live Cell Analysis Services > Hygeia offers expert live blood cell analysis in Toronto. Gain insights into your health with our live blood screening. Book today for a detailed assessment! - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/live-cell-analysis-lca/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Did you know you can look at your blood? Blood can give you a greater understanding of what is going on skin deep! Live blood analysis differs from traditional medical blood testing in which preserved blood is sent to a laboratory for an “autopsy” and analyzed for chemical composition and cell counts. Live blood work involves magnifying a single living drop of blood, taken from a fingertip prick, to 1,000 times or more under a microscope. The cells of the blood live for at least 20 minutes and with the aid of a video camera, are observed on a monitor, revealing certain subtleties missed by laboratory blood tests. What to Expect Nutritional Indicators Live blood analysis can reveal distortion of red blood cells which reflect nutrition status, especially low levels of iron, protein, vitamin B12, folic acid and fatty acids. Incomplete or delayed digestion of fats and proteins can also be observed. In addition, liver stress and undesirable bacterial and fungal by-products may be revealed. The live blood thus acts as an educational “feedback mechanism”, motivating people to improve their diet, perhaps with the addition of nutritional supplements. Positive changes in the structure of the blood cells can be viewed over time, usually a period of months, as improved nutrition impacts the blood. Although the diseases themselves cannot be actually seen under a microscope, live blood analysis allows altered “blood ecology” patterns to be observed. These patterns allow disease imbalances to occur over time and the idea is to modify... --- ### Laboratory Testing Services > Hygeia offers reliable blood test lab services in Toronto. Fast, accurate diagnostics near you. Book your laboratory test today for better health insights! - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-13 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/laboratory-testing-services/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar How do you determine what may be going on with regards to your health and wellness? Laboratory Testing allows for a better understanding of the balance of the body. By looking at specific areas and specific tests we can get a better idea of the dysfunction that may be present and provide us with a better understanding of what may be the cause of your symptoms and health concerns. Book Now There are several tests available and it all depends on what we are looking to determine from your symptoms and/or health concerns.     Serum Blood Testing     Hormone Saliva Testing     Hormone Urine Testing     Organic Acids Testing     Food Sensitivity Testing     Stool Testing     Heavy Metal Testing What do these tests determine? Serum Blood Testing Blood tests are used in primary medicine to confirm or reject a clinical diagnosis. These are the tests your medical practitioner would order on yearly exams and/or for presenting health concerns. In Ontario, similar and sometimes more detailed blood tests can be ordered by your Naturopathic Doctor. A requisition form is required for the blood draw and it is important to note that these tests are not covered by OHIP when ordered by a Naturopathic Doctor. Hormone Saliva Testing Saliva hormone testing is an accurate, non-invasive and clinically useful way of measuring hormones. Saliva hormone testing can be used to identify existing hormone excesses or deficiencies. As the name of the test states, it uses saliva taken at specific times of the... --- ### Kinesiotaping Treatment > Relieve pain & enhance mobility with expert kinesio taping at Hygeia. Certified practitioners in Toronto. Book today for professional treatment! - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/hygeias-kinesiotaping-treatment/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar What is Kinesio Taping? Whether you’re training for your first marathon, getting ready for your next game, reaching a personal fitness goal, or just trying to get through the day, you already know that nothing slows you down faster than pain and injury. Kinesio tape is lightweight, comfortable to wear, and can be used for hundreds of common injuries such as lower back pain, knee pain, shin splints, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tennis elbow, just to name a few. Kinesio tape not only looks good, but it also provides 24 hour relief per application for days at a time through sweat, strain and humidity, and can even be worn in water thanks to our specially designed adhesive. Kinesio tape is applied along muscles, ligaments, and tendons (soft tissue) to provide a lightweight, external support that helps you remain active while recovering from injuries. Kinesio tape creates neuromuscular feedback that inhibits (relaxes) or facilitates stronger firing of muscles and tendons. This feedback creates support elements without the bulk and restriction commonly associated with wraps and heavy bracing. Book now --- ### Hydrotherapy Treatment > Hygeia offers expert hydrotherapy in Toronto, including colon hydrotherapy. Experience safe, effective treatments at our top-rated clinic. Book today! - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/hydrotherapy/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar What is Hydrotherapy? Hydrotherapy is the use of water to revitalize, maintain, and restore health. Why it is used? From a naturopathic perspective, hydrotherapy is used to stimulate the body’s own innate power to heal.   This is one of the founding principles of naturopathic medicine. Hydrotherapy returns the body to its’ natural state of balance between the parasympathetic and sympathetic systems. The parasympathetic system is what is nicknamed the “rest and digest” system.   It can loosely be considered the opposite of the sympathetic system, which activates what is often termed the “fight or flight” response. In order for the body to be in optimal health, there must be a balance between the two systems.   Unfortunately, it has been found that many people are operating on automatic sympathetic mode. An unbalanced sympathetic mode produces stress and continued stress, facilitate “dis-ease” in the body. When you undergo a hydrotherapy treatment, you become more relaxed, your parasympathetic system starts to ramp up and your body starts to heal. Another way to describe the physiological basis of hydrotherapy is to look at the therapeutic aspects of hot and cold water.   Cold water stimulates, it causes superficial blood vessels to constrict, which directs the blood to internal organs. Hot water relaxes, causes blood vessels to dilate, and removes wastes from body tissues. Alternating hot and cold water improves elimination, decreases inflammation, and stimulates circulation. All of these factors allow the innate power of the body to heal. Hydrotherapy treatments include saunas,... --- ### Infrared Sauna Services > Hygeia offers premium infrared sauna therapy in Toronto. Enjoy full-spectrum infrared sauna with red light therapy for ultimate relaxation. Book today! - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/infrared-sauna-services/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Tired of going in circles with your health? Far Infra-red saunas use infra-red heaters to emit radiant heat, which is absorbed directly into the body, unlike traditional saunas which heat the body indirectly via air or steam. This helps your body release a number of toxins, including heavy metals. It has been found that the infrared technology can help in the elimination of approximately 7 times more toxins than your typical dry sauna or steam rooms. Benefits of Far Infrared Sauna Sauna therapy also has many benefits. It can help promote stress reduction via relaxation, as well as muscle relaxation and recovery. It enables better circulation which can reduce pain and discomfort in the body. Additional benefits include recovery from colds, flus and other infections, better skin health and radiant complexion, improves mental clarity and reduces symptoms of stress and fatigue. Infrared saunas can additionally support metabolism and can aid in weight loss. The heat generated in a short session can help burn calories thereby supporting weight loss. What to Expect At Hygeia Naturopathic clinic, the infrared sauna also contains Himalayan salt which has a magnetic frequency seen to restore balance of the mind and body and also releases healthy negative ions that are vital to our well-being. Himalayan salt also has benefits of promoting relaxation, detoxifying the body, reducing pain and stiffness in the body, supporting better sleep and supporting a healthy respiratory system. Our Hydrotherapy Spa room also features a built-in shower to break up your sauna treatment... --- ### Homeopathic Medicine Services > Hygeia – Leading homeopathic clinic in Toronto. Expert homeopathic doctors & quality medicines near you. Visit our clinic or book today for natural healing! - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/homeopathic-medicine/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Tired of going in circles with your health? We are here to help you find the cause and provide tested solutions that work Break free from the vicious cycle of never feeling your best You’ve tried so many “natural” things, but have not found any real long-term solutions You need the support and guidance that will work for YOU You are ready to learn how to better support your body and create a healthier and happier life Benefits of Homeopathic Medicine This powerful system of medicine is more than 200 years old and is widely accepted in many countries. Based on the Hippocratic Principle that ‘like cures like’, homeopathy is a powerful energetic form of medicine that matches the vibrational patterns of an individual with the most resonant homeopathic remedy. Homeopathic medicines work on a subtle, energetic level to activate the body’s innate healing mechanism. Homeopathic Medicine can help with many different health conditions and symptoms including but not limited to: Digestive disorders Bloating, indigestion, and pain Food sensitivities Heartburn and Reflux Constipation and diarrhea Allergies and Immune Disorders Seasonal allergies Vulnerability to common colds Autoimmune disorders Skin disorders Musculoskeletal Disorders Pain and inflammation Arthritis Injuries Hormonal Disorders PMS to menopause Thyroid disorders Energy and stamina Weight gain Cardiometabolic Disorders High blood pressure High cholesterol Issues with weight Diabetes Emotional Health Disorders Anxiety Depression Sleep dysfunctions Stress and fatigue What to Expect Homeopathy begins with a comprehensive consultation to review your health history and learn your health goals. During this consultation you... --- ### Clinical Nutrition Services > Hygeia - Get expert clinical & holistic nutrition services in Toronto. Personalized programs by specialists to support your health with science-backed nutrition plans. - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/hygeias-clinical-nutrition-services/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Tired of going in circles with your health? We are here to help you find the cause and provide tested solutions that work Break free from the vicious cycle of never feeling your best You’ve tried so many “natural” things, but have not found any real long-term solutions You need the support and guidance that will work for YOU You are ready to learn how to better support your body and create a healthier and happier life Benefits of Holistic/Clinical Nutrition and Counseling Holistic nutrition emphasizes the health benefits of natural nutrition, supplementation and lifestyle. Our nutritionists use a combination of modern medicine, evidence-based nutrition and assess lifestyle approaches to nutrition and health. The goal is to optimize your health and wellness through diet, lifestyle, supplementation, and individualized protocols. Clinical nutrition is the cornerstone of natural medicine. It refers to both the practice of using food to maintain health and using foods and nutritional supplements to prevent and treat illness. The practitioner recognizes that the foundation of good health is good nutrition. Our practitioners’ focuses on teaching you to eat healthfully; eliminate food sensitivities or allergies; correct any dietary deficiencies or excesses; and achieve optimal weight and body fat. Many health concerns and conditions can be treated effectively with foods and nutritional supplements while avoiding the complications and side effects which accompany many drug therapies. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we address your health concerns with dietary supplements and individualized meal plans. Nutritional counseling can help with many different health conditions and symptoms... --- ### Herbal/Botanical Medicine Services > Hygeia offers expert naturopathic and clinical botanical medicine, harnessing the power of herbs for holistic health and wellness. - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/herbalbotanical-medicine/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Tired of going in circles with your health? We are here to help you find the cause and provide tested solutions that work Break free from the vicious cycle of never feeling your best You’ve tried so many “natural” things, but have not found any real long-term solutions You need the support and guidance that will work for YOU You are ready to learn how to better support your body and create a healthier and happier life Benefits of Botanical/Herbal Medicine Herbal/Botanical medicine can often provide a natural, less invasive form of treatment for many conditions. Herbal remedies can also offer support to those suffering chronic conditions ranging from the common cold to digestive complaints and endocrine dysfunction helping the body adapt to stress, sustain normal functions, and restore health. Our Practitioners are trained in the use of herbs, combining the traditional wisdom of herbal medicine with modern scientific research to provide a combination of herbs that is specifically designed for each patient. Digestive disorders Bloating, indigestion, and pain Food sensitivities Heartburn and Reflux Constipation and diarrhea Allergies and Immune Disorders Seasonal allergies Vulnerability to common colds Autoimmune disorders Skin disorders Musculoskeletal Disorders Pain and inflammation Arthritis Injuries Hormonal Disorders PMS to menopause Thyroid disorders Energy and stamina Weight gain Cardiometabolic Disorders High blood pressure High cholesterol Issues with weight Diabetes Emotional Health Disorders Anxiety Depression Sleep dysfunctions Stress and fatigue What to Expect Herbal/Botanical Medicine is included in both Naturopathic Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture consults. It... --- ### Patient's Consultation Fees > Naturopathic Medicine Fees are based on the care you require. visits range from 60 - 90min and involve an in depth investigation into your health concerns and your health status - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2023-01-16 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/about-us/patients-consultation-fees/ First Office Visit During this 75-90 minute visit, your doctor will meet with you to obtain information regarding your past medical history, your current health concerns and goals, as well as your diet and lifestyle.  She will go over any labs that you’ve had done in the past year and any supplements and/or medications you’re currently taking. In addition to creating a treatment protocol for your current health issues during this visit, your doctor will also assess your risk factors for developing disease and create a treatment plan for prevention.  New labs may be ordered, as needed. What to Bring to Your First Visit Medical and health history Most recent blood work – If you don’t have any, that’s okay. We can order it as needed as we develop your personalized plan. Medical and health history Most recent blood work – If you don’t have any, that’s okay. We can order it as needed as we develop your personalized plan. Follow-up Visits The first follow-up appointment is generally 4-6 weeks after your first office visit and lasts 60 minutes.  At this time, your doctor will go over the results of any new lab work that has been ordered, as well as check in with you to see how your current treatment plan is going. Based on the new labs and how you’re progressing, your individualized protocol will be fine-tuned.  At this time the need for future follow-up appointments will be established.  Patients are often surprised at how well they’re feeling just 4... --- ### Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture Treatment > Hygeia offers expert facial rejuvenation acupuncture in Toronto. Experience natural, non-invasive cosmetic acupuncture for radiant, youthful skin. Book today! - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/facial-rejuvenation-acupuncture-treatment/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Facial acupuncture has been seen to naturally help your skin look younger, smoother, and all around healthier. Stimulating and activating the qi and blood flow, as it does internally, facial acupuncture can help with our outward projection, affecting the skin lines, the elasticity and look of our skin. Facial acupuncture is similar to acupuncture elsewhere on the body, however, there are some key differences. On the face, acupuncturists will insert many tiny needles that stimulate the lymphatic and circulatory system, which work together to deliver nutrients and oxygen to your skin cells. This nourishes the skin from inside out. This helps with uneven complexion and promotes your skin’s glow. The microtraumas created by the needles help improve elasticity, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. What to Expect Treatment is focused on encouraging the regrowth of collagen underneath the skin on the face. Treatment will also target areas with wrinkles and scars. There will also be a component of systemic treatment to encourage metabolism and boost regrowth from within. --- ### Electrical Stimulation of the Acupuncture Needles Treatment > Hygeia offers expert electroacupuncture treatment in Toronto for pain, overactive bladder, arthritis and many more. Safe & effective therapy. Book today! - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/what-is-electroacupuncture/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar What is electrical stimulation of the acupuncture needles? Electroacupuncture is an acupuncture technique that, comparatively speaking, has only recently come into use. Some scholars believe electroacupuncture was first used by physicians in France and Italy as far back as the early 1800s. Others attribute its discovery to Japanese scientists in the 1940s who were interested in making bone fractures heal more quickly. Still others claim that electroacupuncture wasn’t really developed until 1958, when acupuncturists in China began experimenting with it as a form of pain relief. Whatever the case, electroacupuncture is an increasingly popular form of treatment, and is used by practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine for a wide array of conditions. What’s the difference between electroacupuncture and traditional acupuncture? Electroacupuncture is quite similar to traditional acupuncture in that the same points are stimulated during treatment. As with traditional acupuncture, needles are inserted on specific points along the body. The needles are then attached to a device that generates continuous electric pulses using small clips. These devices are used to adjust the frequency and intensity of the impulse being delivered, depending on the condition being treated. Electroacupuncture uses two needles at time so that the impulses can pass from one needle to the other. Several pairs of needles can be stimulated simultaneously, usually for no more than 30 minutes at a time. What conditions can electroacupuncture treat? According to the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, illness is caused when Qi does not flow properly throughout the body. Acupuncturists determine whether... --- ### Cold Immersion/Plunge Baths > Experience the benefits of cold immersion therapy with Hygeia. Refresh your body and mind with the best ice bath and sauna in Toronto. Book today! - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/cold-immersion-plunge-baths/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Have you ever thought of immersing yourself into a tub of cold water? Well, it does provide some amazing health benefits. Cold immersion therapy or cold-water therapy is a practice of using cold water to treat health conditions or stimulate health benefits. Cold water therapy can improve your circulation, help with sleep issues, increase your energy and reduce inflammation in the body. What does this mean? By taking part in cold water immersion therapy, you can reduce your muscle soreness, ease any symptoms of depression, boost your immune system, help support weight loss, and reduce pain and discomfort in the body. What to Expect During your cold immersion/plunge bath, you will plunge into the cold tub and through breathing and meditation stay in the cold water. Over time and repeated sessions you will begin to increase the amount o time spent in the cold immersion. --- ### Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R.Ac > Dr. Effy Germanis is a Naturopathic Doctor and Registered Acupuncturist and is a lover of gut health. - Published: 2022-11-16 - Modified: 2025-02-12 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/about-us/dr-effy-germanis-naturopathic-doctor/ Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R. Ac NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR | REGISTERED ACUPUNCTURIST Dr. Effy Germanis is a Naturopathic Doctor and Registered Acupuncturist and is a lover of gut health. She is the owner of Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic in Toronto, Ontario and helps both men and women achieve optimal health by addressing the foundations – the gut. With over 8 years of clinical experience she has helped those with gut issues reclaim their health and their relationship with food. Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R. Ac is passionate about helping people dealing with gut issues the ability to step away from pain and indigestion and into a place of enjoyment and nourishment. She has dealt with her own issues that not only affected her gut but began to affect the function of her hormones, and she understands the pain and struggle. She has felt the burnout and has found balance and enjoyment with her gut and her health. She is here and ready to help you flourish – “we are what we eat,” so let’s be healthy, nourishing and delicious. Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R. Ac completed her Honours Bachelor of Science in Human Biology and Biomedical Ethics from the University of Toronto in 2008. She then furthered her studies at Bastyr University and completed the four-year doctorate program in 2012. She also completed a 2 year Acupuncture Diploma at the Toronto School of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2016. My priority as a health care provider is to look out for my patients’ best... --- ### Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Services > Get expert acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine in Toronto. Our registered practitioners can provide Chinese treatment method at Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic near you. - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/hygeias-traditional-chinese-medicine-and-acupuncture-services/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Tired of going in circles with your health? We are here to help you find the cause and provide tested solutions that work Break free from the vicious cycle of never feeling your best You’ve tried so many “natural” things, but have not found any real long-term solutions You need the support and guidance that will work for YOU You are ready to learn how to better support your body and create a healthier and happier life Benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Chinese Medicine is an energy-based medical system that has evolved and prospered for more than 2,500 years. The system yields result by focusing on a holistic approach to a person rather than a disease-oriented diagnostic and treatment model. This means that both the symptoms as well as the root cause of the illness are treated simultaneously. Traditional Chinese medicine has a rich and diverse history and employs a myriad of techniques to achieve results – acupuncture being just one of those techniques. Acupuncture’s effectiveness has been confirmed with research and is supported by medical organizations such as the World Health Organization and the National Institute of Health’s National Centre for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture treats the whole person and aims to heal the root causes of illness and not just the symptoms one may experience. Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture can help with many different health conditions and symptoms including but not limited to: Digestive disorders Bloating, indigestion, and pain Food sensitivities Heartburn... --- ### Naturopathic Medicine Services > Hygeia offers expert naturopathic and holistic medicine in Toronto. Treat high blood pressure naturally. Find care near you, visit us for more Info! - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-05-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/hygeias-naturopathic-medicine-services/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Tired of going in circles with your health? We are here to help you find the cause and provide tested solutions that work Break free from the vicious cycle of never feeling your best You’ve tried so many “natural” things, but have not found any real long-term solutions You need the support and guidance that will work for YOU You are ready to learn how to better support your body and create a healthier and happier life Benefits of Naturopathic Medicine Naturopathic Medicine is a system that used natural therapies to support the body’s innate ability to heal itself. Naturopathic Medicine focuses on mind, body, and spirit and embraces the principles of Naturopathic Medicine to identify and address the underlying causes of ill-health in the least invasive and most effective manner. Naturopathic Medicine treats the whole person and aims to heal the root causes of illness and not just the symptoms one may experience. Naturopathic Medicine can help with many different health conditions and symptoms including but not limited to: Digestive disorders Bloating, indigestion, and pain Food sensitivities Heartburn and Reflux Constipation and diarrhea Allergies and Immune Disorders Seasonal allergies Vulnerability to common colds Autoimmune disorders Skin disorders Musculoskeletal Disorders Pain and inflammation Arthritis Injuries Hormonal Disorders PMS to menopause Thyroid disorders Energy and stamina Weight gain Cardiometabolic Disorders High blood pressure High cholesterol Issues with weight Diabetes Emotional Health Disorders Anxiety Depression Sleep dysfunctions Stress and fatigue What to expect Naturopathic care begins with a comprehensive consultation to review... --- ### Treatments > Explore our range of natural treatments designed to support your health and well-being. Discover personalized care for every need. - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/treatments/ --- ### Natural Fertility Program > Boost fertility naturally with expert naturopathic infertility treatment, personalized nutrition, and holistic medicine for optimal reproductive health. - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-04-17 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/fertility-program/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Naturopathic Infertility Treatment: A Natural Path to Conception Fertility and conception challenges have become increasingly common, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a family of your own. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, our natural fertility program supports couples at every stage of their fertility journey. Optimal fertility is best achieved when both partners are involved in the process. Whether you are just beginning to explore natural fertility options or are undergoing medical treatments, our natural fertility medicine approach addresses the root causes of infertility to enhance reproductive health. Fertility & Naturopathy: Addressing the Root Causes Naturally Infertility can be influenced by various factors, including: Poor nutrition and lifestyle habits The body’s inability to detoxify optimally Hormonal imbalances affecting ovulation and sperm health Reproductive issues in both men and women History of miscarriages and difficulty conceiving Highstressimpacting fertility hormones Our natural fertility program is designed to identify and address these underlying issues to improve your chances of a successful conception. Personalized Fertility Nutritionist Support AtHygeia Naturopathic Clinic,our fertility practitioners will work closely with you to: Assess your diet and nutritional deficiencies Create a personalized fertility-boosting meal plan Support hormonal balance through targeted nutrition Enhance reproductive health with whole, natural foods Proper nutrition is a crucial factor in fertility success, and our fertilitypractitioners will ensure your body is nourished and ready for conception. Natural Fertility Medicine Approach Our fertility program takes a comprehensive and personalized approach to reproductive health, combining evidence-based natural therapies with holistic care to optimize fertility outcomes. We focus... --- ### Corporate Wellness Program > Boost productivity and well-being with a tailored corporate wellness program in Toronto. Empower employees with expert coaching and holistic company wellness solutions. - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-04-15 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/corporate-wellness-program/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Corporate Employee Wellness Program: Naturopathic Solutions for a Healthier Workforce The success of any business depends on the well-being of its employees. A strongcorporate wellness programensures that your team remains healthy, productive, and engaged. AtHygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we offer acorporate employee wellness programdesigned to improve workplace health, boost morale, and enhance overall productivity. Tailored Corporate Employee Wellness Program Hygeia’sonline corporate wellness programis ideal for businesses looking for a flexible, accessible, and scalable approach to employee well-being. Ourcorporate wellness programfocuses onnutrition,lifestyle coaching, andstress management, delivered in two effective formats: 1. Online Corporate Wellness Modules Ourcorporate employee wellness programincludes self-pacedonline health modules, allowing employees and management teams to: Access expert-led courses on nutrition, stress management, healthy habits, and workplace wellness. Learnpractical wellness strategiesto incorporate into daily routines. Receivepersonalized health insightswith quizzes, assessments, and tailored recommendations. Customize their learning experience based on individual and company needs. Topics cover all key aspects ofcorporate health and wellnessand can be tailored to meet the unique needs of your organization. 2. In-House Corporate Wellness Workshops For businesses that prefer a hands-on approach, we offer in-person corporate wellness talks designed to Provide an interactive learning experience for employees. Encourage engagement through Q&A sessions and practical activities. Allow employees to ask real-time questions and receive personalized guidance from experts Foster team building while focusing on workplace health and well-being. Include live demonstrations, practical exercises, and group discussions. Cover topics such as nutrition, stress reduction, physical wellness, and mental resilience. Encourage team bonding by promoting a shared commitment to health... --- ### Healthy Aging Program > Boost vitality with our healthy aging program. Expert care, tailored nutrition, and active aging programs at our healthy aging clinic for lifelong wellness. - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-04-15 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/healthy-aging-program/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Naturopathic Healthy Aging Clinic: Your Path to Vitality & Wellness What does it truly mean to age? Does aging inevitably lead to disease, or can we take proactive steps to maintain health and vitality? AtHygeia Naturopathic Clinic, ourhealthy aging programis designed to support your body’s natural ability to function at its best as you grow older. Healthy aging means enjoying your retirement just as you envisioned it—full of energy, mobility, and overall well-being. This program is tailored for individuals who seek ongoing health support, accountability, and a proactive approach to aging gracefully Why Choose a Healthy Aging Program As you plan for retirement, it’s essential to consider how your body will adapt over time. Ourhealthy aging clinicoffers continuous monitoring, regular health check-ins, and customized wellness plans to help you maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Through structured support, ourhealthy aging programensures that you: Receive ongoing assessments for optimal aging Have personalizedlifestyle coachingto maintain strength and vitality. Benefit fromnutritional guidanceto support longevity. Optimize hormonal balance for sustained energy and well-being Our Holistic Healthy Aging Program for Lifelong Wellness AtHygeia Naturopathic Clinic, ourhealthy aging clinicprovides a comprehensive, integrative approach to aging. Our program includes: Naturopathic Medicine– A proactive approach to health and disease prevention throughnaturopathic medicine Acupuncture Therapy– Supporting circulation, pain relief, and energy balance. Nutritional Coaching– Anti-aging meal plans designed to nourish and sustain vitality. Hormonal Support– Balancing key hormones for sustained energy and cognitive function. Lifestyle Optimization– Strategies to improve mobility,reduce stress,and enhance longevity. By integrating these elements, ourhealthy aging... --- ### Healthy Lifestyle Program > Transform your well-being with a personalized healthy lifestyle program. Get expert guidance from a healthy life coach for better nutrition and lasting wellness. - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-04-17 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/healthy-lifestyle-program/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Naturopathic Healthy Life Program: Your Path to WellnessWhat does it mean to live a trulyhealthy lifestyle? How can we ensure that we are nourishing our bodies, preventing disease, and maintaining well-being at every stage of life? AtHygeia Naturopathic Clinic, ourhealthy lifestyle programis designed to provide long-term guidance, accountability, and support. This program is perfect for individuals at all life stages—whether you're a teenager transitioning into adulthood, someone navigating your 30s and beyond, or simply looking to maintain optimal health. Regardless of whether you currently have health concerns, thehealthy life programhelps you sustain wellness now and in the years ahead. Why Join a Healthy Lifestyle Program? As life changes, so do our health needs. Whether you'restarting a family, managing stress, or looking to prevent chronic illness, our program provides the ongoing support needed to navigate these transitions smoothly. Ourhealthy life programensures that you:Receive personalized health assessments tailored to your unique needs. Have ongoing check-ins and testing to track progress over time. Gain access to expert nutritional guidance for sustainable wellness. Develop lifestyle habits that promote long-term vitality. Our Holistic Healthy Life ProgramAtHygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we believe that wellness is a lifelong journey. Ourhealthy lifestyle programincorporates:Naturopathic Medicine– A natural, preventative approach to long-term well-being. Acupuncture Therapy– Supporting energy balance, stress relief, and overall wellness. Nutritional Coaching– Meal planning and dietary recommendations for optimal nourishment. Hormonal Support– Balancing key hormones to maintain energy, mood, and metabolism. Physical Medicine & Lifestyle Coaching– Strategies to improve movement, reduce stress, and enhance quality of life. By... --- ### Stress and Fatigue Management Program > Hygeia offers expert stress management programs in Toronto. Join our proven training to build resilience, improve well-being, and take control of stress today. - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-04-16 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/stress-and-fatigue-program/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Comprehensive Stress Management Program in Toronto Stress and fatigue surprisingly are found to go together. You’ve been enduring stress for a long time now, but how you respond to the stressor is key for your health and longevity. Chronic stress can lead to persistent fatigue, affecting not just your energy levels but also your overall well-being. When the body is constantly in a state of stress, it releases high levels of cortisol, which over time can contribute to: Fatigue & exhaustion Poor concentration & memory issues Weight fluctuations Hormonal imbalance Sleep disturbances Additionally, stress-related fatigue may trigger unhealthy habits such as poor dietary choices, lack of physical activity, or dependency on stimulants like caffeine and sugar, further exacerbating the problem. By addressing our stress response and ability to adapt to our environment, we are better able to function long term and optimize our health and well-being. Holistic Stress Management Training Program AtHygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we offer a stress management training program designed to: Help regulate cortisol & adrenal function Improve energy, focus, and emotional balance Support better sleep and hormone regulation Restore the body's ability to handle physical and emotional stress Our stress management program incorporatesnaturopathic medicine,acupuncture, nutrition, and lifestyle coaching to promote resilience and long-term wellness. Personalized Stress Management Program We take a holistic approach to stress and fatigue management by assessing: Diet & Nutrition– Identifying nutrient deficiencies that contribute to stress and fatigue. Hormonal Balance– Addressing adrenal fatigue and hormonal imbalances Lifestyle Adjustments– Implementing relaxation techniques and stress-reduction... --- ### Pain Management Program > Hygeia's pain management program offers naturopathic pain management treatment designed for lasting relief. Experience holistic care tailored to your needs. - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-04-15 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/pain-management-program/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Naturopathic Pain Management Program for Lasting Relief Pain is one of the leading reasons people seek medical care. Whether acute (new) or chronic (long-term), pain can significantly impact your quality of life. AtHygeia Naturopathic Clinic,our pain management programs focus on holistic treatments that address the root cause of pain, rather than just masking symptoms. Pain is often a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be treated. Our naturopathic pain management approach integrates natural therapies to promote long-term healing and relief. Types of Pain We Address in Our Pain Management Programs Ourpain management programsprovide support for various conditions, including: Muscular pain – From injuries, overuse, or strain. Back and neck pain – Chronic discomfort from posture, injuries, or stress Joint pain and arthritis – Stiffness, inflammation, and mobility issues Nerve pain – Neuropathy, sciatica, or radiating pain. Headaches and migraines – Tension-related or hormonal headaches. Inflammatory pain – Systemic conditions that cause widespread pain. By addressing these conditions with anaturopathic pain managementapproach, we help you regain mobility, reduce discomfort, and enhance your well-being. Our Holistic Pain Management Approach AtHygeia Naturopathic Clinic, ourpain management programsintegrate a variety of natural, evidence-based therapies, including: Naturopathic Medicine–Holistic medicinestailored to your pain condition. Acupuncture– Provenacupuncture treatmentsfor pain relief and inflammation reduction. Nutritional Therapy– Anti-inflammatory diets and targeted supplements. Physical Medicine– Gentle exercises and mobility support. Lifestyle Coaching–Stress managementand movement strategies for long-term relief. By combining these therapies, we create anindividualized pain management planthat supports your recovery and helps you feel your best. Personalized Care... --- ### Sports Recovery and Endurance Program > Hygeia's sports recovery program offers expert sports recovery treatments and therapy to help you heal, recharge and perform at your best. Visit our clinic today! - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/sports-recovery-and-endurance-program/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Comprehensive Sports Recovery Treatments for Athletes Whether you’re a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, proper recovery is essential for peak performance and injury prevention. At Hygeia Sports Recovery Centre, we provide specialized sports recovery treatments to help you: Heal from injuries faster Improve endurance and athletic performance Prevent recurring injuries and muscle fatigue If you've been struggling with chronic pain, muscle stiffness, or sports-related injuries, oursports recovery clinicis here to support your journey back to optimal health. Holistic Sports Recovery Clinic for Injury Treatment At Hygeia Sports Recovery Clinic, we integratenaturopathic medicine,acupuncture, nutrition, and physical therapies to: Enhance muscle recovery & flexibility Support joint health & reduce inflammation Boost energy levels for improved endurance Strengthen the body to prevent future injuries Our sports recovery treatments focus on natural, science-backed therapies that help athletes recover faster and perform at their best. Customized Sports Recovery Program for All Athletes Our comprehensive approach tosports recovery and enduranceincludes: Nutritional Support–Optimizing dietfor faster muscle repair and energy replenishment. Acupuncture & Naturopathic Medicine– Supporting circulation andpain management Physical Therapy & Lifestyle Coaching– Helping athletes maintain long-term mobility and strength. AtHygeia Sports Recovery Centre, we personalize every treatment plan to meet the unique needs of each athlete. --- ### Weight Loss Program > Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic runs weight loss programs in Toronto and offers Chinese and naturopathic medicine including acupuncture to achieve sustainable weight loss. - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-04-15 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/weight-loss-program/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Naturopathic Weight Loss Program in Toronto Your weight is a balancing act. There are days we feel great about our body and then there are days we don’t. For many their weight just keeps going up no matter what they do. Have you changed the way you eat? Have you restricted your meals? Have you been stressing and worrying about it? The answer to this question is probably yes. AtHygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we believe that weight loss is more than just a number on a scale—it’s about feeling your best every day. If you need help balancing your weight so you can feel better each day,our naturopathic weight loss program can help you achieve lasting results with the help of holistic and sustainable weight management strategies andhealthy lifestyle programs. Why is Weight Loss so Challenging? Weight imbalances can be caused by various factors, including: Hormonal imbalances Dietary habits & nutrient deficiencie Stress& lifestyle factors Metabolic dysfunction Restrictive eating patterns Instead of relying on quick-fix diets, our weight loss practitioners use a personalized, naturopathic approach to help you reach your ideal weight naturally and sustainably. Comprehensive Naturopathic Weight Loss Program At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, our weight loss program in Toronto is designed to identify and address the root causes of weight gain through a multi-faceted approach: Naturopathic Medicine for Weight Loss– Supporting natural weight loss with safe and effectivenaturopathic treatments Acupuncture & Hormonal Balance – Restoring the body's equilibrium to optimize metabolism and energy levels throughacupuncture& hormone balance. Nutritional Guidance &... --- ### Gut Health Program > Hygeia: Expert naturopath gut health specialist in Toronto, offers personalized gut health programs to restore digestion, balance, and overall well-being. - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/gut-health-program/ - Element Controls: Big Header, Has Sidebar Naturopathic Gut-focused Health Doctors in Toronto Your digestive system is at the forefront of your overall health as it takes in nutrients and eliminates waste products. When it suffers, so does the rest of your body. Digestive concerns can often be the first signs of further complications due to an impaired immune system, improper food intake and poor nutrient absorption. AtHygeia Naturopathic Clinic, our gut health doctors focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of digestive concerns through our personalized gut health program. Common Gastrointestinal Conditions We Address Our gut health experts provide care for a range of gastrointestinal conditions, including: Irritable bowel (IBS) Crohn’s disease and colitis Celiac disease Reflux disease Ulcers Gas and bloating Constipation or diarrhea Abdominal pain Change in weight Digestive problems are among the most common conditions and are not limited to the noted conditions above. Our Holistic Gut Health Program AtHygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we create tailored treatment plans through our gut restoration program, which may include: Dietary modification Supporting proper body elimination and detoxification pathways Food elimination and individualized diets Botanicalsandhomeopathic medicines Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Relaxation and meditative approaches forstress management Why Choose Our Gut Health Doctors in Toronto? At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, our gut health doctorsassess each patient holistically, considering naturopathic principles, nutrition, hormone balance, and lifestyle factors. . Based on this,through our gut health program,we can help you modify your diet with meal planning that incorporates whole, natural foods that you will enjoy. Additionally, we will provide ongoing hormonal... --- ### Naturopathic Programs > Hygeia programs are created to provide well rounded and individualized care for your health and your health concerns. Includes testing, consultations and treatments - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-04-17 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/programs/ Each of these programs includes one-on-one appointments that are individualized over the course of the program length. Fees are charged per visit, there is no need to pay for the entirety of the program in advance. *Initial visit is mandatory before program is initiated to ensure that the program is specific to your health needs. For more information, please contact us. --- ### The Clinic > Supporting your body is of utmost importance when it comes to sports medicine. Using natural therapies, we enable and support athletes in their athletic performance, healing from injuries and preventing injuries. - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-02-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/about-us/the-clinic/ A Wholistic and Nourishing Space   At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic you will find a space of healing and calm that provides the framework for treating and addressing the foundations of health. Our clinic includes an herbal dispensary, calm and nourishing treatment rooms, a spa oasis and a lounge area to relax and regenerate. Hygeia’s Spaces of Healing Hygeia's Dispensary Hygeia’s Herbal Dispensary includes Bulk herbs that are created and catered to each individual, Chinese Herbal Medicine that provides foundational support and the use of professional grade nutraceuticals. At Hygeia, our practitioners utilize the dispensary based on their patient’s individual needs. Hygeia's Treatment Rooms Hygeia’s Treatment Rooms bring a sense of calm and provide a safe space for rejuvenation and healing. The treatment rooms allow for ample and comfortable space with the seclusion away from the noise of our daily routines. Hygeia’s Hydrotherapy Spa Room Hygeia’s Hydrotherapy space utilizes water as therapy and provides quietness and solitude during the patient’s healing time. Water therapy can be of great benefit for treating a number of health conditions. Using both hot and cold temperatures, patient’s can enjoy the oasis and take the time and care they need to fully replenish their health. Hygeia’s Hydrotherapy Spa Room Hygeia’s Hydrotherapy Spa room also includes the infrared sauna and features a built-in shower to break up your sauna treatment with a cold immersion shower or tub. This helps rinse off the toxins coming through the skin and the alternating temperatures support a healthy immune system, improves... --- ### Meet the Team > Our diverse and educated team are here to help and support you on your path to wellness. - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2025-04-04 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/about-us/meet-the-team/ Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R. Ac Dr. Effy Germanis is a Naturopathic Doctor and Registered Acupuncturist and is a lover of gut health. She is the owner of Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic in Toronto, Ontario and helps both men and women achieve optimal health by addressing the foundations – the gut. With over 10 years of clinical experience she has helped those with gut issues reclaim their health and their relationship with food. Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R. Ac is passionate about helping people dealing with gut issues the ability to step away from pain and indigestion and into a place of enjoyment and nourishment. She has dealt with her own issues that not only affected her gut but began to affect the function of her hormones, and she understands the pain and struggle. She has felt the burnout and has found balance and enjoyment with her gut and her health. She is here and ready to help you flourish – “we are what we eat,” so let’s be healthy, nourishing and delicious. Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R. Ac completed her Honours Bachelor of Science in Human Biology and Biomedical Ethics from the University of Toronto in 2008. She then furthered her studies at Bastyr University and completed the four-year doctorate program in 2012. She also completed a 2 year Acupuncture Diploma at the Toronto School of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2016. Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R. Ac is licensed to practice in Ontario and is registered with the College of... --- ### Contact > Learn more about our services and book your appointment today. - Published: 2022-11-13 - Modified: 2025-02-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/contact/ We want to hear from you! Thank you for your interest in Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic. We look forward to assisting you in achieving your health and wellness goals by offering you the very best of naturopathic and other holistic services. Please complete the contact form below25 Industrial Street Suite 207, East York Ontario, M4G 1Z2Give us a call 416-425-5454 --- ### Hygeia's New Patients > Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic is accepting new patients. Our dynamic team works together to provide you with well- rounded care. Want to learn more book a free discovery call. - Published: 2022-11-12 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/new_patients/ Welcome to Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic! Thank you for visiting us. We’re excited to meet you! This page serves as your first step towards your visit. Please come prepared as this ensures you’ll make the most of your appointment time. We recommend that you download and complete your new patient forms prior to your arrival as these can be extensive. Below you’ll also find some first visit tips and frequently asked questions to get you started. If after going through this page you still need assistance feel free to contact us through phone or email! Step 1: Check for E-mail notification to set up your patient portal Step 2: Tips for your first visit Come prepared for your first appointment – ensure all new patient forms are completed, bring any applicable test results as these can often provide additional information to assist in the process. Have a list of any questions you want to ask your practitioner Bring someone with you to your appointment if it will make you more comfortable. Please note that sometimes parts of your appointment may be conducted with just you Please note appointments can be cancelled or rescheduled with 24 hour notice. Please do not wear lotion on your hands or feet as it may interfere with the Naturopathic Assessment. Please come to your appointment prepared to remove your shoes and socks as we may need to work on your feet. It is fine to eat, drink and take any of your medications or supplements as... --- ### FAQ > Have questions about our services, naturopathic medicine, treatments, or what to expect at your visits - Published: 2022-11-12 - Modified: 2023-01-16 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/faqs/ ABOUT HYGEIA NATUROPATHIC CLINICWhat are your hours of operation? Our hours of operation are: Monday 9am – 8pm Tuesday 9am – 8pm Wednesday 9am – 8pm Thursday 9am – 8pm Friday 9am – 4pm Saturday 9am – 4pm Sunday Closed Do you accept insurance? We are a private clinic and do not accept insurance directly; however we provide receipts of service at each visit and depending on your extended benefits provider you may be reimbursed for part or all of your payment. Please check with your benefits provider directly concerning your coverage as each plan is different and we are unable to provide the specifics of your plan. Where are you located? Our new location is: 25 Industrial Street Suite 207 East York Ontario M4G 1Z2ABOUT NATUROPATHIC DOCTORSWhy are NDs trained in so many different types of treatments? Naturopathic therapies are taught and used together because they are all based on the same principles, – assist the body’s healing response — and are often more effective when combined and work synergistically to benefit the patient. Do I continue to see my medical doctor and other health practitioners? Yes. You can continue to see your other healthcare providers, as needed. It is also important to coordinate your care with other healthcare practitioners by communicating with them as appropriate. It is best to work as a team with other practitioners in order to give you the best possible healthcare. What should I expect on the first visit? The first visit with an ND may... --- ### Blog > stay updated on health topics and learn how to incorpoate health tools into your daily routine to support and optimize your health and your life - Published: 2022-11-11 - Modified: 2025-02-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/blog/ --- ### Homepage > Searching "naturopath near me"? Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic is located in East York, Toronto, providing naturopathic, herbal, acupuncture, nutrition and other services. - Published: 2022-11-11 - Modified: 2025-05-20 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/ Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic in TorontoNourish, Balance, Repair and Cleanse your Body by Unleashing its own Healing AbilityLearn moreNatural TherapiesExperienced PractitionersIndividual Programshttps://www. youtube. com/watch? v=YO8yY8WBvfU Dr. Effy Germanis – Your Trusted Naturopath in Toronto My name is Dr. Effy Germanis, and I am a Naturopathic Doctor and Registered Acupuncturist and the owner and director of Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic in East York, Toronto. Hygeia represents the goddess of health and hygiene and was associated with the prevention of sickness and the continuation of good health. At Hygeia our goal is to help you nourish, balance, repair, and cleanse your body by unleashing its own healing ability. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic we provide individualized care and treat the person as a whole, by addressing the five pillars of health. These pillars are nutrition, gut health, hormonal health, the balance of movement and rest and brain health and mood balance. The five pillars are the foundations to health. Balance in all these areas is key to optimal health and vibrant energy.  Get Hy with Hygeia:Skin Health from the Inside OutWondering how your gut can affect your skin health? Come in and learn from Dr. Effy Germanis ND and the clinical team how you can optimize your gut for long lasting skin health results and what other therapies and products you can use to support your skin. Join us on Saturday June 22 at 11:00AM to 3:00PMEnjoy live demos, speakers, prizes & much more! Being healthy is the best kind of high. Reserve My Spot Space is... --- ### About us > We provide individualized care and treat the person as a whole by addressing the 5 pillars of health. - Published: 2022-11-11 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/about-us/ Hygeia’s Mission We dedicate ourselves to providing the most effective treatments for our patients, utilizing the latest and best of western medicine and complementary therapies We offer a wide variety of clinical services and therapies to help you achieve and maintain optimal physical and emotional health and wellness We offer a multi-disciplinary approach to treat common, acute and chronic health conditions With Naturopathic Medicine and Acupuncture, we bridge the gap between alternative and conventional medicine We provide primary care including physical exams, laboratory testing, naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, physical medicine, massage therapy, nutrition therapy and counselling, weight management, detoxification, stress management, and treatment for general and chronic health problems Hygeia’s View of True Health High level of well-being with minimal symptoms Restful sleep Absence of chronic disease Quick recovery from acute illnesses Positive mental outlook and balanced moods Ability to readily adapt to life’s stressors A connection with community and nature Graceful aging What is Naturopathic Medicine? Naturopathic medicine (sometimes called “naturopathy”) is a distinct system of  health care that emphasizes prevention and the self-healing process through the use of natural therapies. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) blend centuries-old knowledge and a philosophy that nature is the most effective healer with current research on health and human systems. Naturopathic medicine focuses on identifying the underlying causes of disease, while naturopathic therapies are supported by research drawn from peer-reviewed journals from many disciplines, including naturopathic medicine, conventional medicine, European complementary medicine, clinical nutrition, phytotherapy, pharmacognosy, homeopathy, psychology and spirituality. The therapeutic modalities used in naturopathic medicine (including physical medicine, clinical... --- ## ## Posts ### Reclaiming Wellness: A Day of Healing Through Hydrotherapy and Stone Therapy Rooms > Burnt out and overwhelmed, I found healing through hydrotherapy, stone rooms, and red light at a holistic day spa. - Published: 2025-05-16 - Modified: 2025-05-19 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/reclaiming-wellness-a-day-of-healing-through-hydrotherapy-and-stone-therapy-rooms/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: health, wellness In the midst of a fast-paced life filled with back-to-back responsibilities, meetings, and commitments, I found myself in a state of deep burnout. Overwhelmed and pulled in multiple directions, my physical, mental, and emotional health were waving red flags. That’s when I decided to retreat inward — choosing solitude, silence, and self-healing at a day spa designed to rebalance the body and mind. This wasn’t your typical spa experience. I immersed myself in hydrotherapy sessions and explored a range of stone rooms — each intentionally curated with natural elements and set at specific temperatures to create distinct therapeutic outcomes. These rooms, combined with red light therapy and nourishing, organic food, provided an entire day of holistic wellness, allowing me to reset and re-align with my health goals. Below, I reflect on the experience and the therapeutic properties of the rooms I visited. Hydrotherapy: Awakening Circulation and Detox Pathways Hydrotherapy — the use of water at varying temperatures — was foundational to this healing day. Alternating between hot and cold plunges, steam rooms, and showers helped to stimulate circulation, activate the lymphatic system, and encourage detoxification. The contrasting temperatures gently shocked the body into a state of alertness while simultaneously calming the nervous system. This ancient technique is known for enhancing immune function, improving sleep, and reducing inflammation — all of which are key in managing burnout. The Stone Rooms: Harnessing the Earth’s Healing Elements Each room in the spa featured a specific stone or mineral known for its healing properties.... --- ### Wait, THAT Lowers Cholesterol?” 3 Surprisingly Fun Ways to Help Your Heart  > Boost heart health with 3 science-backed habits—nature, sleep, and sunlight—no treadmill or kale required. - Published: 2025-05-14 - Modified: 2025-05-19 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/wait-that-lowers-cholesterol-3-surprisingly-fun-ways-to-help-your-heart/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: health, nutrition Let’s face it—most of us don’t wake up in the morning thinking, “Gee, I can’t wait to optimize my lipid panel today. ” But if you're between 40 and 75, chances are your doctor has thrown around terms like LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and “maybe cut back on the brisket. ” The good news? You don’t have to live on celery sticks and treadmill sweat to maintain a healthy heart. Here are three unexpected (and actually enjoyable) lifestyle habits that science says could help lower cholesterol and boost heart health—without turning your life upside down. 1. Touch Grass (Literally): Nature Time = Heart Time Spending time outside isn’t just for Instagram hikers and people with suspiciously tan dogs. Studies show that time in green spaces (a. k. a. “nature”) can reduce stress hormones like cortisol—which is great news for your arteries, since chronic stress is a sneaky saboteur of cholesterol levels. But wait, there’s more! Nature exposure also encourages gentle movement (think walking, not CrossFit), lowers blood pressure, and might even improve LDL and triglyceride levels over time. Some small studies on "forest bathing" (yes, it's a thing) show positive effects on lipid profiles—without a single burpee involved. Try This: Skip the gym one day this week and take a 30-minute walk in a park, trail, or anywhere with trees and birds. Bonus points if you leave your phone behind and actually listen to the birds. 2. Sleep Like It’s Your Job You wouldn’t skip a meeting with your boss (well, not often), so why ghost your bedtime? Poor sleep and... --- ### Avocado Love: How this superfood can transform your health - Published: 2025-05-13 - Modified: 2025-05-20 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/avocado-love-how-this-superfood-can-transform-your-health/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: health, nutrition Nutritious, versatile, and delicious, avocados have become a kitchen staple in many homes around the world. While some people refer to avocados as fruits and some people say they’re a vegetable, avocados (Persea americana) are actually considered fruits. They’re a member of the Lauraceae plant family, which also includes the cinnamon tree. Avocados are native to Mexico and Central America, but they are cultivated in many areas of the world, including North America. These fruits are an important part of traditional Mexican, Central American, and South American cuisine and are used in dishes like guacamole, salads, tacos, and more. Avocados are extremely popular in the health and wellness world because they’re highly nutritious and have been linked to several health benefits. (1)  Excellent source of nutrients (1) (2) Here is the nutrition breakdown for a 7-ounce (201-gram) avocado: Calories: 322 Fat: 30 grams (mostly monounsaturated 67%) Protein: 4 grams Carbs: 17 grams Fiber: 14 grams (mostly insoluble but also soluble) Vitamin C: 22% of the daily value DV Vitamin E: 28% of the DV Vitamin K: 35% of the DV Riboflavin (B2): 20% of the DV Niacin (B3): 22% of the DV Pantothenic acid (B5): 56% of the DV Pyridoxine (B6): 30% of the DV Folate: 41% of the DV Magnesium: 14% of the DV Potassium: 21% of the DV Copper: 42% of the DV Manganese: 12% of the DV Carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin) Benefits of avocado 1. Healthy for the heart In every 100 g of avocado, there are 76 (mg) of a natural plant sterol called beta-sitosterol. Regularly consuming beta-sitosterol and other plant sterols may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, which are important for heart health. (3)... --- ### When to See a Dietitian vs. a Nutritionist for Your Health Goals? > Dietitian vs. nutritionist, who's right for you? Check the key differences, expert roles, and how clinical nutrition services can optimize your health. - Published: 2025-04-22 - Modified: 2025-04-22 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/when-to-see-a-dietitian-vs-a-nutritionist-for-your-health-goals/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: health, nutrition A balanced diet lowers your risk of chronic disease. It improves mood, energy, and weight while supporting overall health. But choosing the right foods isn’t always easy. When managing specific health goals or a medical condition, expert guidance can help. That’s where specialists like nutritionists and registered dietitians come in. They provide personalized advice tailored to your needs. Searching for clinical nutrition services often brings up two titles, ‘Nutritionist’ and ‘Dietitian. ’ Although they sound similar, they differ in education, qualifications, and scope of practice. Hence, choosing the right specialist can make all the difference in achieving your health goals. Let’s understand what these professionals do and how they support your health journey. What Is The Difference Between A Dietician Vs. Nutritionist? Both dietitians and nutritionists focus on food and health. However, they have different levels of training and areas of expertise. Who Is A Dietician?   A dietitian, often called a Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), is a licensed healthcare professional. They attain formal education with a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or dietetics, undergo supervised clinical training, and pass national exams. To maintain certification, they engage in continuous education and professional development. Scope And Areas Of Practice Dietitians work in hospitals, clinics, private practices, and community health programs. They provide evidence-based nutrition plans based on medical conditions. Some common areas include: Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) for chronic diseases Personalized meal planning for specific health conditions Clinical nutrition services for weight management and wellness Nutritional support for... --- ### Traditional Chinese Medicine Herbs List to Improve Overall Health > Explore time-tested Chinese herbs like ginseng and reishi to restore balance, boost immunity, and enhance vitality. - Published: 2025-03-28 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/traditional-chinese-medicine-herbs-list-to-improve-overall-health/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: health, medical clinic, medicine Health is not just the absence of illness. It is the vibrant expression of balance, energy, and clarity that radiates from within. For thousands of years, the ancient system of Traditional Chinese Medicine has helped people achieve this dynamic state of wellness. It does so not through temporary fixes or synthetic pills but by nurturing the natural intelligence of the body. And at the heart of this wisdom lies one of its most powerful healing tools — herbs. These are not just leaves and roots. They are nature’s formulas for deep restoration, drawn from centuries of clinical experience and spiritual insight. Today, modern science is beginning to catch up to what ancient Chinese healers knew intuitively. The synergy between these herbs and our body’s internal rhythms holds the key to improving health in ways that are sustainable, gentle, and profound. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we see how the thoughtful integration of herbal medicine enhances both prevention and healing. What follows is not just a list of herbs but a journey into the heart of Traditional Chinese Medicine that reveals how these ancient gifts can empower your wellness journey in ways you’ve never imagined. Why Traditional Chinese Medicine Herbs Are Unlike Anything Else In the West, herbs are often used like over-the-counter drugs — take this for a headache, that for sleep. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the approach is entirely different. Herbs are not isolated agents. They are selected in harmony with a person’s energy pattern, organ function, emotional state, and... --- ### The Natural Approach to Sustainable Weight Loss: What You Need to Know > Discover a natural, sustainable approach to weight loss that targets root causes and supports long-term health success. - Published: 2025-03-25 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/the-natural-approach-to-sustainable-weight-loss-what-you-need-to-know/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: health, Weight loss, women's health When it comes to losing weight, the market is flooded with quick fixes, fad diets, and gimmicky supplements that promise fast results. But ask anyone who’s been on that rollercoaster, they rarely deliver lasting change. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we believe that real, sustainable weight loss comes from aligning your body, mind, and lifestyle through a natural and personalized approach. Enter naturopathic medicine for weight loss, a holistic strategy that doesn’t just focus on calories and cardio but dives deep into the root causes of weight gain and stubborn plateaus. More Than Just Diet and Exercise The truth is, weight loss isn’t just about eating less and moving more. Hormonal imbalances, gut health issues, inflammation, stress, and poor sleep can all sabotage your progress, even if you’re doing “everything right. ” A naturopathic doctor looks beyond the surface, using comprehensive assessments to uncover what’s really going on inside your body. That’s what makes naturopathic medicine for weight loss different: it’s tailored to you. From metabolic testing to food sensitivity analysis, we use data to personalize your plan and create a strategy that works with your body, not against it. And with ongoing support from a qualified weight loss nutritionist, you won’t be left guessing what to eat or how to stay on track. Why the Natural Route Works One of the biggest benefits of a natural approach is its focus on long-term success. Instead of relying on stimulants, meal replacements, or extreme restrictions, we help you establish effective and sustainable... --- ### Benefits of Turmeric > Discover the powerful health benefits of turmeric, including its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties for wellness. - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-04-04 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/benefits-of-turmeric/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: anti-inflammatory, curcumin, food as medicine, health, turmeric The history and characteristics of Turmeric Turmeric, a plant in the ginger family, is native to Southeast Asia and is grown commercially in that region, primarily in India. Its rhizome (underground stem) is used as a culinary spice and traditional medicine. Historically, turmeric was used in Ayurveda and other traditional Indian medical systems, as well as Eastern Asian medical systems such as traditional Chinese medicine. In India, it was traditionally used for disorders of the skin, upper respiratory tract, joints, and digestive system. Today, turmeric is promoted as a dietary supplement for a variety of conditions, including arthritis, digestive disorders, respiratory infections, allergies, liver disease, depression, and many others. Turmeric is a common spice and a major ingredient in curry powder. Curcumin is a major component of turmeric, and the activities of turmeric are commonly attributed to curcuminoids (curcumin and closely related substances). Curcumin gives turmeric its yellow color. Turmeric dietary supplements are made from the dried rhizome and typically contain a mixture of curcuminoids. Turmeric is also made into a paste for skin conditions. Here are some top evidence-based health benefits of turmeric and curcumin Turmeric contains bioactive compounds with medicinal properties. It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant. That said, the curcumin content of turmeric is only around 1-6% by weight. 1. Curcumin is a natural anti-inflammatory compound Curcumin is a bioactive substance that can help fight inflammation, though  very high doses are required to produce medicinal results. Still, it means it has the potential to fight the inflammation that... --- ### Three Essential Lab Tests Anyone With Endometriosis Should Know About > If you’re looking for support to overcome endometriosis pain and get back to living the life you love, book a free discovery call with Dr. Despina Michailidis, ND at Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic - Published: 2025-03-18 - Modified: 2025-03-18 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/three-essential-lab-tests-anyone-with-endometriosis-should-know-about/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: endometriosis, naturopathic medicine, women's health If you’ve had a doctor diagnose you with endometriosis or suspect you have it, the process of learning about your condition and monitoring your progress can feel daunting. Personally and professionally, I’ve been there! That’s why I put together a short list of three accessible lab tests patients wish they knew about sooner. I’m sharing these because I want to make sure you’re empowered with information about your body so that you can get the personalized care you deserve. While most doctors recognize these lab tests, it’s best to interpret results alongside a naturopathic doctor and/or medical doctor who has experience and expertise in endometriosis. Ca-125 is a protein that’s often higher in the blood when endometriosis is present. Since endometriosis can cause pelvic inflammation and tissue damage, Ca-125 levels rise, giving us an idea of how active the endometriosis might be and helping us track changes over time to monitor treatment. However, it’s important to know that Ca-125 can be elevated due to other conditions. That’s why we can’t diagnose and monitor endometriosis solely based on Ca-125. We always need to assess the entire case! AMH (anti-Mullerian hormone)is helpful to measure if fertility is a concern for you. While there’s nolab testthat can predict fertility, this hormone is often measured in fertility clinics to estimate ovarian reserve – in other words, how many eggs are left in the ovaries. Endometriosis patches on the ovaries (“endometriomas”), chronic pelvic inflammation and surgery on the ovaries can all reduce ovarian reserve. Testing... --- ### Understanding the Role of Natural Therapy in Pain Management > Explore how trusted naturopaths Toronto residents choose to provide drug-free pain relief with personalized, holistic care tailored to your healing journey. - Published: 2025-03-14 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/understanding-the-role-of-natural-therapy-in-pain-management/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: health, nutrition, pain management Living with chronic pain can feel like a never-ending battle. Whether it stems from arthritis, injury, migraines, or musculoskeletal conditions, the impact on your daily life is real and exhausting. While conventional treatments often rely on pharmaceuticals, many people are seeking safe, holistic alternatives that support long-term healing. That’s where natural therapy steps in. At Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic, we believe in addressing pain at its root, not just masking the symptoms. Our team of experienced naturopaths in Toronto residents trust offers a comprehensive, personalized approach to pain management that focuses on the whole person, not just the problem area. The Power of Natural Therapies Natural therapies used in pain management often combine several evidence-based approaches: acupuncture, herbal medicine, clinical nutrition, physical therapies, and lifestyle counseling. These therapies are tailored to your unique needs and designed to support the body’s innate ability to heal. For instance, acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins—your body’s natural painkillers, while reducing inflammation and improving circulation. Herbal remedies and nutritional interventions can target underlying causes like inflammation, hormone imbalance, or nutrient deficiencies. Together, these tools create a powerful, drug-free strategy for reducing pain and restoring quality of life. Personalized Care Makes the Difference No two pain experiences are alike, which is why individualized treatment is so important. When you visit a naturopath clinic in Toronto patients rely on, you’ll receive a personalized assessment that looks at your symptoms, lifestyle, diet, emotional health, and more. From there, a customized care plan is built because healing should... --- ### How Acupuncture Helps Relieve Stress and Anxiety Naturally > Explore how acupuncture supports your stress management program by reducing anxiety, easing chronic stress, and restoring inner calm, naturally and effectively. - Published: 2025-03-12 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/how-acupuncture-helps-relieve-stress-and-anxiety-naturally/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: health, nutrition Stress and anxiety are more than just occasional visitors; they’re practically part of modern life. Between demanding work schedules, digital overload, and the nonstop buzz of daily responsibilities, it's no wonder many people turn to natural, holistic solutions for relief. One of the most time-tested and increasingly popular options is acupuncture. Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years to restore balance and promote healing. But in recent decades, its calming, stress-busting benefits have gained real traction in the Western world, and science is starting to catch up. What Is Acupuncture? Acupuncture involves inserting ultra-thin needles into specific points on the body, known as acupoints. These points lie along energy pathways called meridians, which practitioners believe correspond to internal organs and bodily functions. The goal? To restore the body’s natural energy flow, what the Chinese call “Qi” (pronounced “chee”), and bring the system back into harmony. While that may sound a bit mystical, there’s real-world, biological evidence supporting how acupuncture works. The Science of Stress Relief When your body is stressed, it goes into "fight or flight" mode. That means increased cortisol (your stress hormone), a faster heart rate, and more mental tension. Acupuncture helps regulate the nervous system, encouraging a shift from the sympathetic (stress) response to the parasympathetic (relaxation) state. Studies show acupuncture can help: Lower cortisol levels Stimulate endorphin production (your body’s natural “feel good” chemicals) Reduce heart rate and blood pressure Enhance mood-regulating neurotransmitters, like serotonin and dopamine These biochemical responses... --- ### How Personalized Nutrition Plans Can Help Manage Digestive Issues? - Published: 2025-03-05 - Modified: 2025-04-30 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/how-personalized-nutrition-plans-can-help-manage-digestive-issues/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: digestive health, health, nutrition, wellness Digestive issues are more common than ever. From bloating and acid reflux to IBS and food sensitivities, millions of people struggle daily with uncomfortable symptoms that disrupt their lives. While over-the-counter remedies might provide temporary relief, true healing often starts with one simple yet powerful step: personalized nutrition. To attain a personalized plan, a registered nutritionist in Toronto can help you best.   Why Personalization Beats One-Size-Fits-All in Holistic Nutrition Programs Generic diet plans may work for some, but when it comes to gut health, personalization is key. Each person’s digestive system is as unique as their fingerprint. What soothes one gut might irritate another. That’s why a customized approach to nutrition is far more effective than following trendy diet fads or restrictive eating patterns. Personalized nutrition plans consider your unique biology, lifestyle, and health history. This tailored strategy helps identify your body’s specific needs and responses, eliminating guesswork and empowering you with the right foods to fuel healing and comfort. This approach can also be a valuable part of a broader stress management program, especially for those whose digestive issues are triggered or worsened by chronic stress and fatigue. Target the Root Cause — A Naturopathic Nutritionist’s Approach Digestive symptoms are often just the tip of the iceberg. Personalized plans aim to identify the root cause of your issues, like inflammation, poor gut flora, stress, or hidden food intolerances. Addressing these underlying triggers with targeted nutritional support gives your body a better chance to repair, rebalance, and restore normal... --- ### When to Seek Fertility Support: Signs It’s Time to See a Specialist? - Published: 2025-02-20 - Modified: 2025-04-10 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/when-to-seek-fertility-support-signs-its-time-to-see-a-specialist/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: health, women's health Almost everyone dreams of building a family, but when it doesn’t happen as planned, the struggle can feel isolating. If you’re one of those, facing infertility, you’re not alone. Yet, the hardest part is often knowing when to stop waiting and seek expert help. Persistent fertility challenges, irregular cycles, and underlying health conditions can make conception difficult. Hormone imbalances, reproductive disorders, or unexplained infertility may require specialized care.   Recognizing the signs early and exploring expert guidance can improve your chances of conceiving. Scroll down to understand the key indicators, the role of a fertility specialist, and how natural fertility medicine can support your journey. Who Is A Fertility Specialist? A fertility specialist is a medical expert trained to diagnose and treat reproductive issues that may prevent you from conceiving. They assess your health, identify potential roadblocks, and provide treatment plans customized to your needs. But fertility care doesn’t stop at traditional medicine; experts in fertility naturopathy take a more holistic approach. Fertility naturopathy focuses on natural methods like nutritional counseling, herbal medicine, and lifestyle changes to enhance reproductive health. You can experience this approach at any stage of your journey to naturally support and improve your reproductive well-being. 6 Signs That Indicate It’s Time To See A Fertility Nutritionist Fertility challenges often stem from more than one issue. If you notice these signs, it may be time to consult a fertility nutritionist: Age Considerations Affecting Success  Age plays a significant role in the ability to conceive healthy babies. When... --- ### The Most Important Mineral: Magnesium > Magnesium is often referred to as the “master mineral” due to its essential role in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. Despite its importance, many people are magnesium-deficient, which can contribute to a wide range of health issues. - Published: 2025-02-17 - Modified: 2025-02-17 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/the-most-important-mineral-magnesium/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: energy, foundationalhealth, magnesium Magnesium is often referred to as the “master mineral” due to its essential role in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. Despite its importance, many people are magnesium-deficient, which can contribute to a wide range of health issues. Here’s why magnesium deserves the spotlight: The Role of Magnesium in the Body Magnesium helps convert food into energy, aids in protein synthesis, and is essential in regulating muscle and nerve functions. This mineral also plays a key role in activating vitamin D, which is necessary for calcium absorption. Ensuring adequate magnesium levels is vital for overall health. Benefits of Magnesium 1. Improving Sleep One of magnesium’s most impressive benefits is improving sleep quality. This mineral regulates neurotransmitters that signal the nervous system, promoting relaxation. Research indicates that individuals who take magnesium supplements experience better sleep quality and longer sleep duration. For example, a study published in the Journal of Research in Medical Sciences reported that participants taking magnesium showed a 30% improvement in sleep time. If you struggle with insomnia or restless nights, consider adding magnesium-rich foods like almonds, spinach, or pumpkin seeds to your diet. You might also explore magnesium supplements. While magnesium glycinate is known for its high absorption rate and calming effects, you can also consider magnesium threonate for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and support cognitive health. Magnesium citrate is another option, but keep in mind that it may have a mild laxative effect. 2. Reducing Stress and Anxiety In today’s fast-paced world, stress... --- ### IV Vitamin Therapy for Athletes: How It Helps Performance and Recovery? - Published: 2025-02-12 - Modified: 2025-04-10 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/iv-vitamin-therapy-for-athletes-how-it-helps-performance-and-recovery/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: nutrient therapy, Therapy, vitamin therapy Athletes try many strategies to push their limits, recover faster, and stay at peak performance. After an intense workout, when every muscle aches and fatigue sets in, it’s easy to wonder if there’s a better way to recover. You try hydration, protein shakes, and stretching, but sometimes it’s just not enough. The moment you expend energy, your body churns through its nutrient stores to fuel your metabolism. That metabolism converts carbs, fats, and proteins into energy through a series of complex chemical reactions. These reactions require the right vitamins and minerals, like Vitamin C, B-Complex, magnesium, and zinc. Without them, your performance and recovery take a hit. That’s why IV vitamin therapy is fast becoming the go-to solution for athletes who want to optimize their performance and bounce back faster. Let’s understand why IV vitamin therapy is so effective and how it can take your athletic performance to the next level.   What is IV Vitamin Therapy? IV vitamin therapy is a medical treatment that infuses fluids, vitamins, and minerals into your body directly into your bloodstream. It uses a customized intravenous (IV) drip of nutrients for hydration, energy, and wellness.   Unlike oral supplements, which must pass through digestion, IV therapy bypasses the gut, ensuring 100% absorption of nutrients. Even many professional athletes take advantage of IV nutrition therapy to remain hydrated, limit muscle fatigue, and improve recovery. So, if you are training or exercising daily, IV therapy provides you with all the fitness you need. Key Components of IV Nutrient Therapy  The... --- ### My 5-Day Juice Cleanse Experience: A Reset for Body and Mind > Explore the benefits of a 5-day juice cleanse for detoxifying your body and refreshing your mind. Read about my personal experience and results here. - Published: 2025-02-10 - Modified: 2025-02-10 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/my-5-day-juice-cleanse-experience-a-reset-for-body-and-mind/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: cleanse, detoxification, juice Embarking on a five-day juice cleanse was an insightful and rewarding experience. I chose to do the cleanse to support balanced blood sugar, reset my eating habits, and enhance detoxification. While it came with its challenges, it ultimately left me feeling lighter, clearer, and more in tune with my body. The Journey: Day by Day The first two days were the most challenging. The sensation of hunger was my primary symptom—it felt as if I hadn't eaten, even though I wasn’t truly hungry. My digestion felt incredibly light, and I didn't experience any bloating or indigestion, which was a welcome change. However, I noticed a dip in my energy levels and felt more fatigued than usual. As the days progressed, I began to feel the benefits more profoundly. My energy levels started to increase, my body felt lighter, and my mind became noticeably clearer. By the end of the cleanse, my hunger felt more controlled, and I was more mindful of my eating habits. Key Takeaways One important factor during this cleanse was hydration. Since I was drinking cold juices in the middle of winter, I made sure to support my system by staying warm with hot water throughout the day. This helped maintain my internal balance and made the process more comfortable. Juice cleanses can be a helpful tool to reset the digestive system and support the body's detoxification pathways. However, they should always be done with proper guidance and support to ensure they are both safe and effective... --- ### 10 Surprising Benefits of Facial Acupuncture Beyond Skincare > Facial rejuvenation treatment offers more than skincare benefits. Check how facial rejuvenation acupuncture relieves stress and enhances circulation & wellness. - Published: 2025-02-10 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/10-surprising-benefits-of-facial-acupuncture-beyond-skincare/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: Acupuncture, Facial Acupuncture, Skincare Your skin reflects what’s happening inside your body. Dark circles, a tense jaw, or a dull complexion aren’t just cosmetic concerns; they’re signs of deeper imbalances. While skincare products only treat the surface, facial acupuncture works from within, promoting both beauty and well-being. Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, facial rejuvenation treatment is a natural, non-invasive alternative to Botox or surgery. It stimulates circulation, encourages collagen production, and supports your body’s healing process. But the benefits don’t stop there. Beyond smoother skin, this holistic therapy can reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance overall vitality. Scroll down to understand the unexpected health perks of facial acupuncture and why it’s more than just a beauty trend. What Is Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture? Facial rejuvenation acupuncture is a sought-after practice that works directly with the beauty and aesthetics of the skin. It not only enhances beauty but also promotes the overall well-being of the body, mind, and spirit.   Ultra-fine needles stimulate key facial points to boost circulation, increase collagen, and promote natural healing. This traditional Chinese medicine technique addresses underlying imbalances in the body, making it far better than a cosmetic fix. However, its benefits go beyond microcirculation. It also supports the nervous, immune, and lymphatic systems, promoting overall well-being. That’s why facial rejuvenation treatment has gained popularity, making it one of the most powerful holistic therapies available. Benefits of Facial Acupuncture Beyond Skincare Reduces Stress and Promotes Relaxation Chronic stress can take a serious toll on your body, leading to fatigue, anxiety, and premature... --- ### Facial Acupuncture vs. Botox: Which One is Better for Anti-Aging? - Published: 2025-02-05 - Modified: 2025-04-10 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/facial-acupuncture-vs-botox-which-one-is-better-for-anti-aging/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: Acupressure, Facial, Massage The search for youthful, glowing skin can sometimes feel like chasing a mirage. With the global anti-aging market projected to reach $83. 2 billion by 2027, it’s clear we’re all looking for that magic solution. But does achieving a youthful look really require injecting toxins into your skin? There’s a gentler, more natural alternative, i. e. , facial acupressure. This ancient technique stimulates key acupuncture points on the face, boosting collagen production and enhancing skin elasticity. Instead of freezing facial muscles, it works with your body’s natural healing process to restore radiance from within. Let’s understand both treatments and find why facial acupressure may be the subtle, long-term anti-aging solution you’ve been looking for. Understanding The Muscle Freezing Approach of Botox Botox is one of the most well-known cosmetic treatments for reducing wrinkles. It is a neurotoxin derived from botulinum toxin, which temporarily paralyzes facial muscles. This prevents the repetitive movements that cause wrinkles, such as frowning or squinting. The quick procedure usually takes about 10-15 minutes and involves injecting small amounts of Botox into targeted facial muscles. Results begin to show within 3 to 7 days, and the effects typically last between 3 to 6 months. Over time, repeated Botox use can weaken the treated muscles, potentially leading to longer-lasting results.   Pros of Botox Quick results: You’ll see smoother skin within 3 to 7 days. Minimally invasive: It’s a simple injection with no major downtime. Effective on deep wrinkles: Works well on forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown... --- ### Endometriosis: Supporting Your Immune System to Thrive > Learn how supporting your immune system can help manage endometriosis. Explore natural approaches to boost immunity and improve well-being at Hygeia. - Published: 2025-02-03 - Modified: 2025-02-03 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/endometriosis-supporting-your-immune-system-to-thrive/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: endometriosis, immune health, inflammation, women's health If you’ve been reading about endometriosis (or any chronic disease), then you’ve heard about “inflammation”. Maybe you even know what it means: it describes an important phase of the body’s response to injury or infection. Inflammation is a tool our immune system uses to get us back on track, but our body can get stuck in chronic loops of inflammation that cause more harm than good. If we want to ease endometriosis pain, reduce progression of scarring in the pelvis, boost energy and mood, then we need to look at these inflammatory loops. There are various inflammatory pathways made up of a slew of little messenger molecules that are active in endometriosis. What triggers these messenger molecules in the first place? Often, it’s our immune cells. When our immune cells are unable to clean up and get rid of endometriosis patches, they start releasing inflammatory messengers chronically, like a wound that won’t heal. Hundreds of papers have been published on immune dysfunction in endometriosis, all looking at different little pieces of the puzzle and different nuanced takes. There’s a complex interconnected relationship between various immune pathways, inflammatory pathways and hormonal pathways. What does this mean for treating endometriosis? As a health professional, I’m seeing some specialists starting to incorporate immune-based and anti-inflammatory treatments for endometriosis. Unfortunately, we’re still lacking clinical research on this important topic. However, immune health is a place where integrative and naturopathic care shine. Here’s what you can expect when working with a naturopathic doctor to address... --- ### Everything you need to know about Vitamin D > Discover the importance of Vitamin D for your health. Learn about its benefits, sources, and how to ensure you’re getting enough at Hygeia Naturopathic Clinic. - Published: 2025-01-20 - Modified: 2025-01-21 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-vitamin-d/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: bone, hormones, immune system, mood support, vitamin D Vitamin D, often called the sunshine vitamin, is a vital nutrient that supports numerous functions in your body. From strengthening bones to boosting immunity, enhancing mood, and even protecting your heart, its benefits are vast and well-documented. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about vitamin D, including its role in your health, how it’s synthesized, top dietary sources, and ways to address deficiencies. Let’s explore how this powerhouse vitamin can help you thrive. 1-Overview: Most commonly known as the sunshine vitamin, vitamin D plays a major role in many of your body’s processes. (5) Vitamin D is fat soluble compound responsible for increasing intestinal absorption of calcium, magnesium, and phosphate.  In humans, the most important compounds within this group are vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) and vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol). (1) Vitamin D also regulates many other cellular functions in your body. Its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuroprotective properties support immune health, muscle function and brain cell activity. (2) Your body produces vitamin D naturally when it’s directly exposed to sunlight. You can also get vitamin D from certain foods and supplements to ensure adequate levels of the vitamin in your blood. (3) 2- Vitamin D synthesis The epidermal layer of human skin synthesizes vitamin D when exposed to UV radiation. In the presence of sunlight, a form of vitamin D3 called cholecalciferol is synthesized from a derivative of the steroid cholesterol in the skin. The liver converts cholecalciferol to calcitriol, which is then converted to calcitriol (the active chemical form of the vitamin) in the kidneys. (4)... --- ### Endometriosis: Why Half the Battle is in the Microbiome > Find how the microbiome plays a key role in managing endometriosis. Discover insights and natural approaches to support your health at Hygeia Naturopathic. - Published: 2025-01-07 - Modified: 2025-01-07 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/endometriosis-why-half-the-battle-is-in-the-microbiome/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: digestive health, endometriosis, microbiome, women's health When you think of endometriosis, what comes to mind? Do you think of pain, hormones, and burnout? What about the bacteria, viruses and other microbes living within you? Most women with endometriosis struggle with digestive symptoms, and recent research has been shedding light on how microbes might be involved. Are you unsure of how these little bugs are contributing to endo? Let’s break it down. Women with endometriosis have a higher rate of upper and lower genital tract and pelvic infections. A history of pelvic inflammatory disease, which is commonly sexually transmitted but can involve a combination of bacteria and viruses, has a 3-fold increased risk of developing endometriosis within 10 years. Microbes in the uterus have been shown to affect implantation during in-vitro fertilization (IVF).   Among viruses, the association between endometriosis and human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most well-researched. You can carry certain strains of HPV even if you’ve been vaccinated against HPV, since not all strains are covered. A variety of other viruses may also be able to change gene expression and behaviour of endometrial cells to allow them to form patches where they shouldn’t, including herpes simplex viruses, retroviruses, Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus. It’s been shown that enough genetic changes can make certain cells form endometriosis. Beyond viruses, radiation, chemical pollutants, oxidative stress, infections and other influences can also cause genetic changes. What about bacteria?  Researchers have compared microbes from the large intestine and genital tract in women with endometriosis versus non-endo cases. Higher E. coli, Shigella, Enterococcus, Proteobacteria, Streptococcus, Eubacteria, Gardnerella and Ureaplasma have... --- ### How Naturopathic Doctors Use Nutrition as a Healing Tool > Discover how naturopathic doctors use nutrition as a powerful tool to promote healing and restore optimal health - Published: 2024-11-21 - Modified: 2024-11-14 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/how-naturopathic-doctors-use-nutrition-as-a-healing-tool/ - Categories: Uncategorized Naturopathic medicine is a distinct form of health care that aims to prevent disease or to improve comfort and quality of life in those with chronic disease. One of the core principles of naturopathic medicine is the idea that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself when given the right conditions. One of these conditions is the exchange of nutrients and energy that occurs when eating. Food or nutrition that is in alignment with one’s natural constitution, environment and health conditions is deeply supportive and healing.    Exploring the Many Dimensions of Food in Naturopathic Care Biochemical Nutrition: A naturopath may look at diet through different lenses. They are trained in biochemical nutrition and understanding the biological need for macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins & fats as well as important vitamins and minerals absorbed from food that help individuals stay healthy. In practice, I explain to clients that food provides not just nutrition but information on how to heal and grow. In this way, food can be a form of medicine.   Food as Medicine: Certain custom supplements are filled with nutrients to support health. A multi-vitamin supports general health, a liver supplement supports detoxification, an adrenal support helps the body manage and cope with stress. Did you know that foods also have this ability? Certain foods are endowed with a specific set of nutrients that may be more supportive of one organ or system more than another. And the nutrients within these foods are found in their natural and... --- ### Endometriosis: A Naturopathic Primer > Learn about endometriosis from a naturopathic perspective. Explore holistic approaches to managing pain and improving quality of life. - Published: 2024-11-14 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/endometriosis-a-naturopathic-primer/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: hormones, naturopath, women's health What is endometriosis? Endometriosis is a very common condition that’s thought to affect over 10% of women1. It describes the finding of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, which should normally only be lining the inside of the uterus and shed during periods. Most commonly, endometriosis patches are found in other parts of the pelvis, but they can be found anywhere in the body, including the chest or central nervous system (I’ve linked a case report of psychiatric symptoms caused by brain endometriosis below1). These cells act differently than regular endometrial cells in the uterus, with different release patterns of inflammatory messengers and hormones. During menstrual periods, these tissues bleed into the pelvis and abdomen, triggering pain and inflammation, and can cause scarring over time. Scarring from inflammation or repeated surgery can form “adhesions”, which are fibrous bands that affect the movement and function of organs and contribute to the chronic pain associated with this condition. What are common symptoms of endometriosis? Very painful periods – often, pain starts before the period and extends for multiple days; pelvic or abdominal pain may be seen chronically or at other points in the cycle Heavy and/or clotted periods (this symptom is somewhat less consistent and depends on the patient) Pain or discomfort relating to bowel movements, urinating or intimacy Reduced fertility Fatigue – the endo fatigue is real! Digestive symptoms are common, including constipation (sometimes diarrhea), bloating, distention, nausea and reflux Are there other diagnoses that could be causing my symptoms? There are... --- ### Thyroid dysfunction: Do you suspect something is wrong with yours? > Suspect a thyroid issue? Learn the signs, symptoms, and natural approaches to support a healthy thyroid function. - Published: 2024-10-10 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/thyroid-dysfunction-do-you-suspect-something-is-wrong-with-yours/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: energy, metabolic function, thyroid Feeling sluggish? Gaining weight and finding hard to take it off? Are you more sensitive to cold? Noticing any changes in hair texture? If you’re a woman, maybe you’ve been experiencing changes with your periods? Maybe your mood is off, tending to depression? Maybe you asked your doctor if something could be wrong with your thyroid gland. They tested and told you that your thyroid function is fine, and you just need to exercise more, and have fewer starches and sugars in your diet. It might be your thyroid gland after all. You might suffer from subclinical hypothyroidism. This condition has varied definitions. The Cleveland Clinic defines it as having elevated TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) but normal T4 (thyroxine) levels. I have also heard it defined such that all your thyroid test values are in the normal range but you respond positively to thyroid medication, including natural medicines. In my practice, and many of my colleagues, we have treated patients whose TSH value is 3. 7 or 4. 4, which is in the normal range (or slightly above it), but there symptom picture fits for someone suffering with hypothyroidism. Some experts in functional medicine lecture that TSH should fall between 1. 0 and 2. 0 when function is optimal, anything close to or above 4. 0 should raise suspicion and further investigation. It’s reported that twelve (12%) of people will develop a thyroid condition during their lifetime. The prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism is not well documented but raises the possibility... --- ### Embrace the Beauty of Fall While Caring for Your Skin! > Embrace the beauty of fall while protecting your skin. Get tips for maintaining a healthy, glowing complexion during the cooler months - Published: 2024-10-10 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/embrace-the-beauty-of-fall-while-caring-for-your-skin/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: cosmetic acupuncture collagen, skin health As we enter the fall season, we’re greeted by the stunning colors of fall and the cozy warmth of seasonal favorites like pumpkin spice lattes. However, the cooler weather can also bring skin challenges, including dryness and irritation. Acupuncture: A Natural Approach to Dermatitis Acupuncture is an effective alternative treatment for dermatitis, including atopic dermatitis (eczema), which is characterized by intense itching and chronic flare-ups due to autoimmune reactions and environmental factors like low humidity. As many people seek alternatives to conventional treatments, acupuncture is gaining attention for its potential benefits. Research indicates that acupuncture can help reduce the side effects associated with traditional medications. This ancient practice focuses on specific points in the body that may help regulate the autoimmune response, balance allergen production, and improve mental health aspects related to eczema, such as stress and anxiety. While evidence supporting acupuncture for eczema is still developing, recent studies show promising results. Treatments are personalized based on each patient’s unique constitution and symptoms. One key acupuncture point for dermatitis is LI11, located near the elbow, known for its cooling properties that alleviate itchiness and redness. Additionally, cosmetic acupuncture can be beneficial for facial patches, as it enhances blood circulation and reduces redness and discomfort. Our Comprehensive Care Approach At our center, we combine Cosmetic acupuncture with red light therapy, known for its effectiveness in treating skin conditions. Acupuncture is a safe, side-effect-free therapy that promotes pain relief, reduces stress, increases energy, and alleviates allergies. For optimal results, it’s essential to... --- ### Embrace the Energy of Fall: Health Preservation Tips from Traditional Chinese Medicine > Preserve your health this fall with traditional Chinese medicine tips. Align with the season's energy for balance and vitality. - Published: 2024-10-10 - Modified: 2024-10-11 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/embrace-the-energy-of-fall-health-preservation-tips-from-traditional-chinese-medicine/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: Chinese Herbs, Traditional Chinese Medicine, wholistic health As the leaves begin to fall and the air cools, our bodies naturally adjust to the rhythm of autumn. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), fall is a time to nourish the lungs, protect our qi (energy), and prepare for the colder months ahead. By aligning with nature, we can stay healthy and balanced. Here are some easy, TCM-inspired tips to preserve your health this season! 1. Moisturize Inside and Out Fall is linked to dryness, which can affect your skin and respiratory system. TCM recommends hydrating foods like pears, apples, and honey to nourish the lungs. Incorporating herbal teas such as chrysanthemum or mulberry leaf tea can also help keep moisture levels in check. 2. Warm Up with Seasonal Foods As the weather cools, it's time to trade summer salads for warming, seasonal foods. Think pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and squashes—these root vegetables provide grounding energy. Soups and stews with ginger, garlic, and cinnamon are perfect for supporting digestion and immunity in autumn. 3. Breathe Deeply In TCM, the lungs are associated with autumn, so it's a great time to focus on breathwork. Take time to practice deep breathing exercises or gentle movements like Tai Chi or Qigong to strengthen lung function and boost your qi. 4. Embrace the Power of Letting Go Just as trees shed their leaves in fall, TCM encourages us to let go of what no longer serves us—whether it’s stress, old habits, or emotional baggage. By decluttering our minds and bodies, we create space for fresh... --- ### Sauna Therapy > Explore the benefits of sauna therapy, from detoxification to stress relief. Discover how it can support your overall well-being - Published: 2024-01-16 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/sauna-therapy/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: detox, health, naturopathic, sauna, wellness, whole body health https://youtu. be/v7UwWWwPSvw I want to talk to you today about a treatment approach that I use with virtually all of my new patients and I encourage my patients to do this several times a year -  it's cleansing and detoxification. In 2024 we live in very toxic times. If we were to use the analogy of a rain barrel filling up with water and the rain water is the equivalent of the toxin that we're exposed to every day in our food, air, and water that barrel, folks, is overflowing. It's just crazy how many toxins that were exposed to. It's worse today than it was 20 years ago or 40 years ago.   This is an important issue to be dealing with. Children are even more challenged by this because their bodies and detoxification organs like the liver and kidneys are still developing so they can't really handle the modern burden of toxins that are out there. Things like heavy metals pesticides, plasticizing chemicals, flame retardants, and the list goes on; they can affect the body in many many ways in serious ways. So this,as I say, is really important. A detoxification that I set up for my patients will include multiple things.   First an elimination diet dietary change easing off particularly inflammation of the body by not eating wheat, dairy, corn, citrus, eggs and some other common food sensitivities for probably three or four weeks.   The second thing, as adults cutting down on coffee ideally as... --- ### Gut Health Series: Stomach Acid > Understand the importance of stomach acid for digestion and health. Learn how to support a balanced digestive system naturally. - Published: 2024-01-08 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/gut-health-series-stomach-acid/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: bloating, constipation, digestion, digestive health, discomfort, GERD, indigestion, inflammation, leaky gut, naturopathic, nutrition, Pain, stomach acid Stomach acid, or gastric acid, is a watery, colorless fluid that’s produced by your stomach’s lining. It’s highly acidic and helps break down food for easier digestion. This helps your body absorb nutrients more easily as food moves through your digestive tract. In order to break down everything from meat to tough, fibrous plants, stomach acid has to be highly acidic. Your body is designed to handle average levels of stomach acid so that it doesn’t cause you any illness or health complications. 1 With a pH between 1 and 3, gastric acid plays a key role in digestion of proteins by activating digestive enzymes, which together break down the long chains of amino acids of proteins. Gastric acid is regulated in feedback systems to increase production when needed, such as after a meal. Other cells in the stomach produce bicarbonate, a base, to buffer the fluid, ensuring a regulated pH. These cells also produce mucus – a viscous barrier to prevent gastric acid from damaging the stomach. The pancreas further produces large amounts of bicarbonate and secretes bicarbonate through the pancreatic duct to the duodenum to neutralize gastric acid passing into the digestive tract. 2 The primary active component of gastric acid is hydrochloric acid (HCl), which is produced by parietal cells in the gastric glands in the stomach.  2 Why stomach acid is so important to your health? 3 The stomach is intended to be highly acidic for several very important reasons: The acidity neutralises harmful pathogens like yeast and bacteria that enter the body in food. If these are not destroyed, they may potentially cause food poisoning or upset the delicate balance of gut bacteria; and this in itself... --- ### Gut Health Series: GERD > Discover natural strategies to manage GERD and improve digestive health. Explore the root causes of acid reflux and solutions that work. - Published: 2024-01-08 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/gut-health-series-gerd/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: bloating, constipation, digestion, digestive health, discomfort, GERD, indigestion, inflammation, leaky gut, naturopathic, nutrition, Pain, stomach acid GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease, or chronic acid reflux) is a condition in which acid-containing contents in your stomach persistently leak back up into your esophagus, the tube from your throat to your stomach. Acid reflux happens because a valve at the end of your esophagus, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), doesn’t close properly when food arrives at your stomach. Acid backwash then flows back up through your esophagus into your throat and mouth, giving you a sour taste. Acid reflux happens to nearly everyone at some point in life. Having acid reflux and heartburn now and then is totally normal. But, if you have acid reflux/heartburn more than twice a week over a period of several weeks, constantly take heartburn medications and antacids yet your symptoms keep returning, you may have developed GERD. 1 Symptoms of GERD2 The main symptom of GERD is heartburn, often described as a fiery feeling in one's chest, and regurgitating sour or bitter liquid to the throat or mouth. The combination of heartburn and regurgitation is such a common characteristic of GERD that formal testing may be unnecessary. Other symptoms of GERD include: Non-burning chest pain, which is usually located in the middle of the chest and radiates to the back is the most common symptom of GERD is heartburn (acid indigestion). It usually feels like a burning chest pain that starts behind your breastbone and moves upward to your neck and throat. Many people say it feels like food is coming back into the mouth, leaving an acid or bitter... --- ### Nutrition Series: Facts about Fat > Separate myths from facts about dietary fat. Learn which fats to include for better health and which to avoid - Published: 2024-01-08 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/nutrition-series-facts-about-fat/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: anti-inflammatory, brain health, cognitive, fats, healthy fats, nutrition, wellness Fats are also called ‘fatty acids’ or ‘lipids. ’ Fats in our body are made up of three molecules joined together. These three-molecule are carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. 1 Most of the fat we need is made by our bodies, but there are some fats our bodies cannot make. We can only get these fats by eating them. These fats are called “essential” fats because it is essential that we get them from food. Essential fats include Omega-3 fats (found in foods such as fish and flax seed) and Omega-6 fats (found in foods such as nuts, seeds, and corn oil). Fat has 9 calories per gram, more than 2 times the number of calories in carbohydrates and protein, which each have 4 calories per gram. 2 Why is fat important? Getting enough fat in your diet is important for staying healthy. We need fat because: Fat helps absorb vitamins, like vitamins A, D, E, and K fat keeps our skin healthy. Essential fats like Omega-3 are important for heart health. Healthy fats, like unsaturated fats from plant oils, can help lower levels of LDL (lousy) cholesterol. Fat adds flavour to food. Fat keeps you feeling satisfied longer after a meal. 3 The fats you eat give your body energy that it needs to work properly. During exercise, your body uses calories from carbohydrates you have eaten. But after 20 minutes, exercise depends partially on calories from fat to keep you going. 4 Fats help the body to produce and... --- ### The Hidden Culprit: Exploring the Connection Between Biofilms and Recurrent UTIs > Explore the connection between biofilms and recurrent UTIs. Discover how addressing hidden culprits can help prevent infections. - Published: 2023-11-13 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/the-hidden-culprit-exploring-the-connection-between-biofilms-and-recurrent-utis/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: infection, natural, naturopathicmedicine, urinaryhealth, UTI Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are a common health issue that affects millions of people worldwide,predominantly women. While most UTIs are infrequent and resolve with antibiotic treatment, someindividuals suffer from recurrent UTIs, which can significantly impact their quality of life. Manywomen who experience recurrent UTIs feel frustrated by their reliance on antibiotics and thedisruption that causes to their GI microbiome. Biofilms are an emerging concept that is becomingmore widely acknowledged through research in its connection to recurrent UTIs. There are manytreatments that can support biofilm eradication and enhance the efficacy of antimicrobials in theprevention and treatment of UTIs. A Urinary Tract Infection is typically caused by bacteria entering the urethra and traveling up to thebladder, leading to symptoms like frequent urination, burning sensations, and discomfort. Theseinfections are usually caused by a group of bacteria known as uropathogens, with Escherichia coli(E. coli) being the most common culprit. In cases of recurrent UTIs, it is important to confirm the typeof bacteria present with a culture since some bacteria respond poorly to some anti-microbials. Recurrent UTIs, as the name suggests, occur when an individual experiences multiple UTIs over arelatively short period, usually two or more infections within a year. This recurrence can befrustrating and debilitating, leading to increased healthcare costs, side effects from antibiotictreatment, bladder pain syndrome from scarring to the bladder wall due to chronic infection and fearand avoidance of sexual intimacy due to its relationship with developing UTIs in susceptible women. The Role of Biofilms Biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms, which... --- ### How to avoid sugar crash during Halloween > Get tips to enjoy Halloween treats without the dreaded sugar crash. Keep your energy stable while indulging in the festivities! - Published: 2023-10-16 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/how-to-avoid-sugar-crash-during-halloween/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: healthy eating, meal planning, nutrition Halloween candy season is ramping up and sugary treats are available everywhere1. Even at the best of times, Halloween can be a tricky holiday for people trying to live healthier lifestyles. Whether we have kids young enough to trick-or-treat, or we just enjoy handing out candy to the little ones in the neighborhood, many of us end up with LOTS of candy sitting around the house for weeks after trick-or-treating has passed2. Eating a few pieces of candy might not make a difference, but overindulging could lead to a host of mood and behavioral disruptions. 1 The body responds to sugar intake by releasing insulin, a hormone that pulls blood sugar (glucose) into cells to be used for energy and helps manage blood sugar levels. Too much insulin could cause blood sugar levels to drop or “crash,” leading to symptoms like shakiness, anxiety, sleepiness, headaches, and more. 1 This stress response can make people feel edgy and irritable. While people might eat more sugary foods to compensate for these feelings, it will lead to another sugar crash, creating a vicious cycle. 1 The Halloween Sugar Rush The average 4- to 8-year-old today consumes about 50 pounds of sugar each year. This sugar spike takes a toll on kids’ microbiome health, neurotransmitter function, and immune system, and places them at higher risk for serious problems later like obesity, diabetes, and fatty liver. In fact, a 1973 study showed 100 grams of sugar (which is about what’s in a 2 liter soda) inactivates... --- ### Nutrition Series: What you need to know about carbohydrates > Learn the truth about carbohydrates, their role in your diet, and how to choose the healthiest options for sustained energy - Published: 2023-09-18 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/nutrition-series-what-you-need-to-know-about-carbohydrates/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: blood sugar, carbohydrates, fiber, glucose, starches What are carbohydrates? Carbohydrates (also called carbs) are a type of macronutrient found in certain foods and drinks. They are essential food nutrients that your body turns into glucose to give you the energy to function1. Carbohydrates consist of carbon and water.  1g=4calories2. Structure of carbohydrates: Monosaccharides (simple sugars): glucose, fructose, and galactose. Disaccharides (a combination of 2 monosaccharides): Sucrose, maltose, and lactose. Oligosaccharides (carbohydrates that contain between 3 and 10 single sugar residues) Polysaccharides (up to 3000 glucose units linked together): Starches and fiber. Types of carbohydrates3 Simple Carbohydrates: One or two sugars (monosaccharides or disaccharides) combined in a simple chemical structure. These easily are utilized for energy, causing a rapid rise in blood sugar and insulin secretion from the pancreas. Examples: fructose, lactose, maltose, sucrose, glucose, galactose, ribose Foods: candy, carbonated beverages, corn syrup, fruit juice, honey, table sugar Complex Carbohydrates: Three or more sugars (oligosaccharides or polysaccharides) bonded together in a more complex chemical structure. These take longer to digest and therefore have a more gradual effect on the increase in blood sugar. Examples: cellobiose, amylose, cellulose, dextrin Foods: apples, broccoli, lentils, spinach, unrefined whole grains, brown rice Starches: Complex carbohydrates contain a large number of glucose molecules. Plants produce these polysaccharides. Examples include potatoes, chickpeas, pasta, and wheat. Fiber: Non-digestible complex carbohydrates that encourage healthy bacterial growth in the colon and act as a bulking agent, easing defecation. The main components include cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin. Insoluble: Absorbs water in the intestines, thereby softening and bulking stool. Benefits include regularity... --- ### Nutrition Series: Protein in a nutshell > Understand the importance of protein for overall health. Get tips on selecting high-quality sources to meet your body's needs - Published: 2023-08-29 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/nutrition-series-protein-in-a-nutshell/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: amino acids, digestion, health, muscle, Nutrients, nutrition, protein What is a protein? Protein is a highly complex substance that is present in all living organisms. Proteins are of great nutritional value and are directly involved in the chemical processes essential for life. The importance of proteins was recognized by chemists in the early 19th century, including Swedish chemist Jöns Jacob Berzelius, who in 1838 coined the term protein, a word derived from the Greek prōteios, meaning “holding first place. ” 1 Importantly, protein makes up about 20% of our body weight and is a primary component of our muscles, hair, nails, skin, eyes and internal organs. Protein molecules are composed of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen2. Interestingly, proteins consist of smaller molecules called amino acids, which link together like beads on a string. These linked amino acids form long protein chains, which then fold into complex shapes. There are about 20 different amino acids that occur naturally in proteins. 3 Proteins differ from one another primarily in their sequence of amino acids, which is dictated by the nucleotide sequence of their genes. 4 Types of amino acids5 Amino acids are classified into three groups: Essential amino acids Nonessential amino acids Conditionally essential amino acids Essential amino acids Essential amino acids cannot be made by the body. As a result, they must come from food. The 9 essential amino acids are: histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. Nonessential amino acids Nonessential means that our bodies can produce the amino acid, even if we do not get it from the food we eat. Nonessential amino acids include alanine, arginine, asparagine,... --- ### Lifestyle Genomics – the Ultimate in Biohacking > Unlock the power of lifestyle genomics to optimize your health and performance. Learn how to use biohacking for personalized wellness. - Published: 2023-06-28 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/lifestyle-genomics-the-ultimate-in-biohacking/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: DNA, health, lifestyle, nutrition It feels like every time you turn around there is a new dietary trend or supplement-of-the-month that promises to improve performance, slow aging, and generally make us healthier. Sometimes it’s true, other times not so much. But there is one thing that can actually help us improve performance, age better, and help us get healthier. It’s lifestyle genomics. What is that? Lifestyle genomics explores the interaction between an individual’s genes and their lifestyle choices. By analyzing your genetic information, you can uncover genetic predispositions and susceptibilities and identify lifestyle interventions that could help mitigate any risks. The information help you make informed decisions about diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors to enhance your overall well-being. There are a number of ways Lifestyle genomics can be used. Nutrigenomics and Personalized Dietary Recommendations: This aspect of lifestyle genomics focuses on the interaction between genes and nutrition. It investigates how an individual’s genetic variations influence their metabolism, nutrient absorption, and response to specific dietary components. Some people may have genetic variations that affect their ability to metabolize or utilize certain nutrients effectively. Nutrigenomics can identify these genetic variations and provide insights into personalized nutrient requirements, such as the need for specific vitamins, minerals or other dietary components. Nutrients can also influence gene expression, meaning they can turn genes “on” or “off” and regulate their activity. Nutrigenomics investigates how different nutrients and dietary components can modulate gene expression, leading to changes in physiological processes and health outcomes. With this information we can develop truly... --- ### Does your prenatal measure up? Why choosing a prenatal with methylfolate instead
of folic acid will improve pregnancy outcomes. > Discover why choosing a prenatal vitamin with methylfolate instead of folic acid can improve pregnancy outcomes for you and your baby - Published: 2023-06-22 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/does-your-prenatal-measure-up-why-choosing-a-prenatal-with-methylfolate-insteadof-folic-acid-will-improve-pregnancy-outcomes/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: folic acid, methylfolate, pregnancy, prenatal Pregnancy is a transformative time for expectant mothers, as they strive to ensure the optimal health and development of their unborn child. Proper nutrition plays a crucial role during this period, and one key nutrient that is talked about by medical professionals is folate. Folate is essential for healthy fetal development and reduces the risk of certain birth defects. While folic acid has been traditionally recommended, an alternative form called methylfolate is gaining recognition for its advantages. This post explains why it's important to get the right type of folate in your prenatal to have the best outcomes. Enhanced Absorption: Methylfolate, also known as 5-MTHF or L-methylfolate, is the active form of folate that is readily absorbed and utilized by the body. On the other hand, folic acid, a synthetic form of folate, needs to be converted into its active form by the body's enzymatic processes. However, approximately 30% of individuals have a genetic variation that impairs their ability to convert folic acid efficiently, leading to suboptimal folate levels. Methylfolate bypasses this conversion step, making it more bioavailable and ensuring that pregnant women receive an adequate supply of folate for fetal development. Reduced Risk of Neural Tube Defects: Neural tube defects (NTDs) are severe birth defects that occur early in pregnancy when the neural tube, which develops into the baby's brain and spinal cord, fails to close properly. Adequate folate intake is crucial in preventing NTDs. Studies have shown that methylfolate may be more effective than folic acid in reducing... --- ### ADHD is not caused by a deficiency of Ritalin But some nutrients are lacking > Learn how nutrient imbalances, not a lack of Ritalin, contribute to ADHD symptoms. Explore natural support options for better focus and health. - Published: 2023-06-15 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/adhd-is-not-caused-by-a-deficiency-of-ritalin-but-some-nutrients-are-lacking/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: ADHD, Autism, Children Nutrition, Nutrients Which ones? Magnesium Iron Vitamin B6 Zinc Vitamin D3 Just to name a few. Research shows that people diagnosed with ADHD are lacking or deficient in many vitamins and minerals. Dr. James Greenblatt mentioned a study from psychologists at the University of Cantebury (New Zealand) about a formula that contained 14 vitamins, 16 minerals, 3 amino acids and 3 antioxidants that reduced ADHD in adults and children. The supplement led to: Improved inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity after 2 months Better executive function Increased resilience to stress Worked better than ADHD medicine – one year after the study This is the type of result that many ADHD sufferers are seeking. 79% of the children taking the supplement reported they were “much improved” or “very much improved”. The supplement was also reported to be a favourable option for children with both ADHD and emotional dysregulation. If you’re looking for this kind of approach, for your child or yourself, please consult with Dr. Scott Clack, ND who has been helping children with ADHD, Autism, OCD and PANS for over 20 years. --- ### Methylation: What and Why is this important to my child? > Understand methylation and its importance for your child's health, development, and well-being. Learn how to support this vital process naturally! - Published: 2023-06-15 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/methylation-what-and-why-is-this-important-to-my-child/ - Categories: Uncategorized Most biological processes are complex, including how to describe them. Methylation is one of the more important ones. It is necessary to: Protect and repair out DNA and genetic material Is involved in neurotransmitters that regulate mood and behaviour Initiates the detoxification processes of the body Methylation is also connected to cardiovascular disease and cancer. The focus now is how it connects to Autism and ADHD. Treatment of methylation dysfunction has led to: Improved speech and language skills Increased social skills More focus or concentration Supporting detoxification of environmental toxins like mercury, lead, pesticides, phthalates and more Simply put methylation is the attachment or removal of methyl groups (1 carbon, 3 hydrogen atoms) and how it affects a chemical process. Adding a methyl group might inactivate a change in gene function, while removing the methyl group could trigger change in the gene and cause metabolic or health problems. Scientific evidence of methylation dysfunction in Autism, ADHD and other childhood disorders is well established. How to test for methylation dysfunction: Biomarkers such as methylmalonic acid and pyroglutamic acid Blood tests such as homocysteine Genomic tests such as MTHFR Options for treating methylation dysfunction in children: Reduce stress Reduce exposure to chemical toxins Eat a whole foods diet Exercise Avoid second hand smoke Give supporting nutrients: the activated forms of folate, methyl-B12, Vitamin B6 as well as supplements like DMG or TMG (dimethyl or trimethylglycine), SAMe. Consult with Dr. Scott Clack, ND to get help with understanding if methylation is working for,... --- ### Acupuncture in Women’s Health  > Discover how acupuncture supports women's health by addressing hormonal balance, fertility, and overall well-being. Learn more in this insightful blog! - Published: 2023-05-10 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/acupuncture-in-womens-health/ - Categories: Uncategorized The use of acupuncture and other techniques from Traditional Chinese Medicine to address women’s health has been increasing. We live in an era in which overwork, emotional disorders, improper diet, are a part of our lifestyle and directly affect our health. Therefore, treatments that will address those multiple aspects of health are being more valued and sought. When concerning women’s health, there is a close relationship between those health determinants and reproductive health. Women are complex, we have a million facets, everyone has their unique story, struggles, fights and victories. As Sun Si-Mao said, disorders of women are ten times more difficult to cure than those of male. I like to attribute this to our wonderfully unique aspects and take it as a challenge. This challenge becomes easier when we have a very important and yet simple tool to work with, the menstrual cycle. Female health and fertility is closely related to menstrual health, by simply understanding the menstrual cycle, we can get a picture of one’s fertility status. Scanty menstrual flow, dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramping), premenstrual symptoms, short or long menstrual cycles, are all diagnostic signs and when we intervene on them, we can improve reproductive health. Luckily, acupuncture has been described as an effective tool to address all these concerns. However, we cannot reduce women’s health to reproductive health, once not all women want to bear a child, and they don’t have to. Women’s health is about quality of life, is about being happy, productive, and not being overlooked... --- ### Insulin Resistance: Could This Be the Culprit for Your Acne, Weight gain, and Irregular/Painful Periods (and so much more!)?  > Explore the link between insulin resistance and acne, weight gain, painful periods, and more. Uncover natural solutions to improve your health! - Published: 2023-05-10 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/insulin-resistance-could-this-be-the-culprit-for-your-acne-weight-gain-and-irregular-painful-periods-and-so-much-more/ - Categories: Uncategorized If you find that you have a “slow metabolism”, struggle with irregular periods, feel that you should have grown out of your acne by now, feel that your energy is low and you get strong cravings for carbohydrate rich foods or “hangy” if you have not eaten in a while, you may have the early signs of insulin resistance. Blood work can confirm the diagnosis and track progress using a combination of tests that give a good picture of what is going on together. These tests include a fasting glucose test, a fasting insulin test, and an hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level, which provides a snapshot of your blood sugar levels over the past three months. Insulin resistance is a condition that occurs when cells in the body fail to respond properly to the hormone insulin. When we consume food, the carbohydrates in it are broken down into glucose, which is absorbed into the bloodstream. Insulin then helps to transport glucose into the cells of the body, where it is used for energy or stored for later use. In people with insulin resistance, the cells in their body become less responsive to insulin. As a result, the pancreas produces more insulin to compensate for the decreased sensitivity. This can lead to high levels of insulin in the bloodstream which, when chronically elevated, creates inflammation and over time, can lead to a range of health problems, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. There are several conditions that are associated with... --- ### Spring forward to treat and relieve your Spring Allergies > Learn how to treat and relieve spring allergies naturally with effective tips and remedies. Embrace the season without discomfort! - Published: 2023-03-15 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/spring-forward-to-treat-and-relieve-your-spring-allergies/ - Categories: Uncategorized Naturopathic medicine offers several different approaches to reducing or eliminating your allergy symptoms: one can be customized to your specific needs. Reduce your allergenic load: 25 years of practice has taught me that many allergy sufferers are in a state of overload when they come for treatment. They may have one allergen (e. g. , pollen or cat dander) that is the main trigger of their symptoms, but it’s actually compounding an underlying immune imbalance that occurs because of hidden allergies or sensitivities. Patients have reduced their allergy symptoms by following a 2–3-week cleanse, eliminating hidden food sensitivities and reducing their exposure to other allergens (e. g. , dust, molds). Options for reducing other allergens include changing filters in the home (e. g. , furnace filters or water filters) and doing a deep clean of the main rooms that the allergy sufferer uses. Dr. Clack’s favourite case was a young man who consulted him in March (in Vancouver, B. C. ) in anticipation of suffering from his annual spring allergies during his wedding in June. The patient also had some mild digestive complaints. Testing found he suffered from sensitivities to many of the foods he regularly ate. An elimination diet and cleanse treatment relieved his digestive problems in 3 weeks, as well as reducing minor allergy symptoms he had year-round. He was then recommended to take some natural medicines for allergies (see below) and enjoyed his wedding and honeymoon free of allergy symptoms. Natural medicines versus Anti-histamines: Anti-histamine medicines can... --- ### Live Webinar - The missing link to optimal health > Join our live webinar to explore naturopathic insights and holistic health tips. Learn practical strategies for better well-being! - Published: 2023-03-14 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/live-webinar/ - Categories: Uncategorized Thursday March 30th at 12:30 Your health and your genomic profile: The missing link to optimal healthWith Dr. Effy Germanis ND and Jill Hillhouse CNPLearn how you can improve your health and well-being with actionable nutrition, exercise and lifestyle recommendations personalized to your uniquegenetic makeup. Register Now! --- ### Get Relief from Allergies and Sensitivities > A healthy gut is a crucial part of maintaining your overall health. It seems today that many diseases and health concerns have root in an imbalanced gut. - Published: 2023-02-24 - Modified: 2023-06-15 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/get-relief-from-allergies-and-sensitivities/ - Categories: Uncategorized By: Scott Clack, B. Sc. , N. D. Many Canadians are affected by allergies, many more are unknowingly affected by sensitivities or intolerances to foods or substances in their daily living. The list of signs or symptoms of hidden sensitivities is extensive: fatigue, migraine headaches, eczema, asthma, seasonal allergies, environmental and food allergies, insomnia, back pain, digestive disorders ranging from constipation to IBS to Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. In my clinical practice I have observed sensitivities contributing to symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and PANS (Pedatric Acute Neurological Syndrome). A little-known treatment, in Ontario and Canada anyways, that consistently helps relieve these symptoms or conditions is Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Techniques, also called NAET. I have been practicing this treatment since 2001 and have successfully used it to help patients along with other naturopathic approaches. I have incorporated NAET into cases to help balance hormones for thyroid or women’s health complaints, and neurotransmitters for Anxiety or Depression. NAET is a non-invasive, drug-free natural solution for eliminating allergies and intolerances using a blend of selective energy balancing, testing and treatment procedures that are found in acupuncture/acupressure, chiropractic, nutritional and kinesiological disciplines. One allergen is treated at a time. If you are not severely immune deficient, you may only need one treatment to desensitize a single allergen. A person with a mild to moderate amount of allergies may take 15 to 20 treatments to desensitize 15 to 20 food and environmental allergens. Basic or essential nutrients are re-balanced... --- ### Your Gut and Your Health > A healthy gut is a crucial part of maintaining your overall health. It seems today that many diseases and health concerns have root in an imbalanced gut. - Published: 2022-11-11 - Modified: 2023-01-16 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/your-gut-and-your-health/ - Categories: Uncategorized Delving into your Digestive Garden A healthy gut is a crucial part of maintaining your overall health. It seems today that many diseases and health concerns have root in an imbalanced gut. The foods we consume, the stresses we experience and the exposure to a number of toxic elements has created a dysbiosis of the gut. This leads to changes in our moods, our vitality, and our energy. We feel less inclined to get through the day, and most of our day becomes a task rather than anything else. What does your gut do? Our digestive system is involved in the digestion of food and drink. It controls the breakdown of these foods and the production of energy from the food and drink we consume. By doing this task it is involved in regulating our metabolism, moderating our immune system and making sure toxins are eliminated regularly. When the gut is imbalanced, all these simple yet intricate tasks do not work properly, and we end up feeling sluggish, getting bloated after meals, always getting sick, and feeling swollen and tired, amongst other symptoms. The digestive system is comprised of 100,000 billion cells within the intestine. THAT’S A LOT! Within these 100,000 billion cells, there are up to 2000 different species and from those 2,000 species there are 7000 strains. Once again, THAT’S A LOT! The digestive system is an intricate system of cells that work together to keep our body balanced and healthy. There are two main parts of the... --- ### The Foundations of Health – The Gut (Webinar) > Check out Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R.Ac talk gut health on this webinar - Published: 2022-11-11 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/the-foundations-of-health-the-gut-webinar/ - Categories: Uncategorized Check out Dr. Effy Germanis ND, R. Ac talk gut health on this webinar: Foundations of Health – The Gut --- ### Healthy Weight > What is weight? What do we mean when we have gained weight? As a noun it is defined as the body’s relative mass or the quantity of matter contained by it, giving rise to a downward force, the heaviness of a person or thing. As a verb it is defined as to attach importance or value to something. - Published: 2022-11-11 - Modified: 2023-01-16 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/healthy-weight/ - Categories: Uncategorized I have a confession. I sometimes eat foods that are not ideal for my health. Do I do it regularly? No, but do I enjoy it when I do cheat? YES! Our relationship with food is especially important. From a young age we are taught about food. We learn what is healthy and what is not. Then we get confused by social health. What diet is ideal? Will that diet work for me? So, and so lost so much weight, but I’m getting no-where! I do not like using the word diet. When I approach gut health and healing the thyroid, I discuss meal plans that become lifestyle changes. Diets may or may not work short term and usually once we finish this diet, we end up back where we started. The story of many patients is that they have been battling that weight for months. No matter what they do, the scale seems to only increase. This has them feeling defeated, tired and above all feeling unhealthy. This is not them. This is not you. Have you been feeling this lately? I know I did for a long time. And some days I feel that I’m heading down that pathway again. Life is busy. we will get to whatever we do for our health tomorrow. Today, it is not going to fit into our schedule. But our plan for tomorrow does not happen. It gets pushed yet again. So, what can we do TODAY! ? Let us start with... --- ### Understanding the Thyroid Gland > The thyroid gland sits in the front of your neck, and is split into two lobes on either side, connected by a bridge which we will call an isthmus. - Published: 2022-11-11 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/understanding-the-thyroid-gland/ - Categories: Uncategorized Lately you’re feeling more tired than usual. Even with keeping the same diet and exercise regimen, the scale seems to go up each time you weigh yourself. Sleep was never good, but now, it’s just really bad. You wake up tired. You crave sweets and bread. And to top it off you’re losing hair. Does this sound familiar? Many of us go through the movements of our day, not really being fully apart of it, or just hoping that bed-time is just around the corner. We’ve gone to the doctor, they said all our labs were normal. They told us we could take some meds for our depression. But we don’t want to. We eat right (or so we hope), we exercise (even though we don’t want to or have the energy to), and yet we feel so exhausted. What is missing? There are millions of people like you, going through the movements of daily life, but not really involved in it. And these millions of people may have undiagnosed thyroid disease, specifically hypothyroidism. So ... . what does that mean? A little introduction to the thyroid gland The thyroid gland sits in the front of your neck, and is split into two lobes on either side, connected by a bridge which we will call an isthmus. On the back side of the thyroid gland are the parathyroid glands which are ultimately important for calcium levels in the body. The word thyroid comes from the Greek word ‘Thyreos,’ which means... --- ### Medical work in Haiti > In April of 2011 I had the opportunity to travel to Haiti and work at a free medical clinic located in the outskirts of Mourne Rouge. - Published: 2010-11-21 - Modified: 2025-03-27 - URL: https://hygeianaturopathicclinic.com/medical-work-in-haiti/ - Categories: Uncategorized In April of 2011 I had the opportunity to travel to Haiti and work at a free medical clinic located in the outskirts of Mourne Rouge. The group I traveled with was Naturopaths without Borders (NWB) and recent graduates had set up a clinic that served the Mourne Rouge community. Residents would line up every morning way before the clinic would open in hopes of seeing a practitioner to help them with their health concerns. Many would bring the entire family. In addition to the basic medical help the clinic provided, there were some midwives who volunteered and were able to help expectant mothers not only with their health, but in addition, with the birth of their children. There wasn’t a day in which we did not hear the cries of a newborn. I did not know what to expect in Haiti. What would we be helping them with? Would I be prepared both emotionally and mentally? The travel to the clinic was a roller-coaster. A number of connecting flights, cancelled flights, taxi running out of gas on the way to the hostel, losing our luggage, and finally the long bus ride into Haiti. While all of that took a toll on our energy and excitement, the week we spent helping all the local residents was worth it. We taught them about basic hygiene, overall nutrition for them and their children, and how to take care of infections that they dealt with everyday. The majority of complaints included tummy aches for... ---