Ingredients :

• • 4 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 large onions, halved and sliced
  • 1 broiler/fryer chicken (3 to 4 pounds), cut up, skin removed
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon Chicken paste mixed with 2 cups water
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 teaspoon pepper
  • Hot cooked couscous, quinoa or rice.

Directions:

Place carrots and onions in a greased 5-qt. slow cooker. Sprinkle chicken with salt; add to slow cooker. Top with apricots and raisins. In a small bowl, whisk broth, tomato paste, flour, lemon juice, garlic and seasonings until blended; add to slow cooker. Cook, covered, on low until chicken is tender, 6-7 hours. Serve with hot cooked couscous or quinoa.

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The Plant a Seed See What Grows Foundation is a Canadian Not-for -Profit organization whose mission is “to help create a healthier generation through experiences that connect us to the land and provide opportunities to improve our communities”. They work hard to improve communities across Canada and the communities ability to…

• Help feed children
• Help the sick
• Help people who help the sick
• Help preserve the original seed strains
• Provide opportunities to experience the seed-to-table food cycle
• Feed the micronutrient deficient

The Carleton Place Youth Centre is a local Not-for-Profit organization whose mission is “to inspire, engage and celebrate youth through social, educational recreational activities and community participation encouraging a youth base invested in their local community.” CP Youth has been providing services and programs for youth aged 8-18 in our community for over 25 years. A large portion of their programming involves food. Whether it is free after school snacks, Kids in the Kitchen, baking nights, Foodie Friday or other programs, good food plays an important role. That is why the partnership with the Plant a Seed See What Grows Foundation is a natural fit.

With the help of Plant a Seed See what Grows and The Granary, the CP Youth Centre will be able to improve and expand its community garden. The new garden will have the ability to provide fresh produce to the Centre with extra being donated to the Lanark County Food Bank. Youth attending the CP Youth Centre Programs, free drop ins and Summer Camps (sign up now spaces are filling fast!) will have the opportunity to help in the garden and enjoy the fruits of their labour. The benefits of gardening, community gardens and connecting children with food are all well documented and positive. This is a fantastic opportunity for Carleton Place to get growing together!

Shop Local, Support Local

Much of the funding for Plant a Seed See What Grows comes from the Supplement line Whole Earth & Sea, sold at The Granary. Whole Earth and Sea is a high quality, Canadian made line of health products that contain a nutrient rich base of organic plants grown, harvested and raw processed right here in Canada. Their multi vitamins, Proteins, Greens and more are expertly formulated to provide maximum health benefits. $2.00 from the sale of each and every product goes to support the foundation. By shopping local at The Granary and supporting your own health you can help give back to your community through this awesome partnership.

Want to give back more? The CP Youth Centre is always looking for volunteers, corporate sponsors, board members and more. Contact cpyouthcenter@gmail.com or visit their website for more information.

Plant a Seed & See What Grows

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Most of us celebrate the emerging tree buds, sprouting flowers and bursts of colour in our gardens and countryside that declare the arrival of spring!  But for seasonal allergy sufferers, the explosion of pollens throughout spring and summer can bring on miserable symptoms that feels like anything but a party.  The good news is, real allergy relief can be found, naturally.

What are Seasonal Allergies?

Seasonal allergies, like all allergic reactions, are the result of an exaggerated immune response to a substance the immune systems interprets as threatening.   These substances (such as pollen) aren’t actually harmful to the body, however they will trigger the body to release histamine which creates inflammation of the mucous membranes and can cause reactions of varying severity.   An over sensitive immune system may respond to these triggers with itching, swelling, skin or eye irritation, coughing, increased mucous production and/or nasal congestion.  

An immune system that has been overwhelmed by unidentified food or environmental sensitivities will produce a heightened response to seasonal allergens.  Gut health plays a role in seasonal allergies as well, given that a large portion of immune system cells are found in the walls of the gastrointestinal tract.  A healthy gut = a healthy immune system! Physical or emotional stress may also increase symptoms for allergy sufferers.  Genetic factors play a role as well; a child whose parents suffer from allergies has a 70% chance of developing allergies themselves.

Reducing Symptoms

Avoiding the allergen itself is the best way to avoid allergy symptoms however this can be challenging with a substance like pollen.  Allergy sufferers can decrease allergic reactions by limiting exposure to allergens and immune system stressors by keeping these tips in mind:

• Pollens are at highest concentrations in the morning between 5am and 10am but lowest after it rains.  
• Protect your home and workplace from pollens by keeping windows closed while pollens and other allergens are in the air.   
• Consider using an air purification system.
• Be sure to exercise indoors.  
• Smoking and exposure to second hand smoke weakens the immune system therefore increasing the body’s sensitivity to allergens.

Improve Overall Health to Decrease Seasonal Allergies

A healthy immune system and great overall health go a long way in reducing seasonal allergy symptoms!  The pillars of good health to decrease stress, make healthy food choices, exercise regularly and be well rested may seem simple, but their effects on the body can be enormous!   In addition, regular cleaning with herbs like dandelion root or milk thistle can reduce the buildup of allergens in the system.  You can also support the immune system by:

• Choosing foods that are high in antioxidants such leafy greens and berries
• Taking a probiotic to keep gut flora in balance
• Supplementing with vitamin C and vitamin D supplement year-round
• Identify any unknown food or environmental sensitivities

Conventional Treatment of Seasonal Allergies

Conventional treatment of seasonal allergies is targeted at decreasing symptoms.  Antihistamines, which block the release of histamine, are the most common treatment for mild to moderate seasonal allergies.  Histamine is released by mast cells and binds to receptors in the blood vessels which causes them to swell.  Histamine attaches to other receptor sites as well causing redness, swelling and itching.  By blocking histamine from being released in the first place, antihistamines  prevent these symptoms from occurring.  Although antihistamines can be an effective treatment for seasonal allergies, they can cause drowsiness and foggy thinking.  Luckily, there are several alternative options which can be just as effective in getting you through allergy season.

Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids

Did you know that humans and hamsters are the only mammals that don’t produce their own source of Vitamin?  Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine which destroys the molecular structure of histamine, thereby decreasing the amount of histamine in the blood.   Taking a Vitamin C supplement which also includes bioflavonoids increases the efficacy of the Vitamin C.  Keep in mind, the half-life of Vitamin C is only 30 minutes!   After that, it is no longer effective for the body. This means that taking Vitamin C throughout the day is essential for maximum benefit to combat seasonal allergies.

Quercetin

Quercetin is a bioflavonoid found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, and grains. Flavonoids give flowers and fruits their vibrant colors and are natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. Quercetin specifically is also a natural antihistamine.   By calming mast cells, quercetin prevents or reduces the release of histamines when taken regularly.  Quercetin works very well in combination with Vitamin C.

Nettle Leaf

Nettle Leaf (or Stinging Nettle) can be taken in capsules, tincture or as a tea.  It is a mild tasting herb that can be used to relieve allergy symptoms by stabilizing mast cells which release histamine.  If using the tea, steep for 10 minutes and drink 1-3 cups a day – the more the better!  For best results, sweeten a cup of Nettle Leaf tea with raw local honey!

Raw Local Honey

Consuming raw local honey has been an allergy relief go-to for years.   When consuming local honey, the person is also ingesting tiny amounts of local pollen spores.  Gradually over time, this exposure can help the body become desensitized to local pollens. Look for raw honey so that trace enzymes, minerals, amino acids and vitamins are intact.  Enjoy a spoonful a day!

Real Relief All Allergies (tabs)

Homeocan Allergies (pellets)

If you haven’t been taking your Vitamin C, Quercetin, Nettle Leaf or Raw Honey or your seasonal allergy symptoms are overwhelming , homeopathics can offer quick relief of acute seasonal allergy symptoms.   Homeocan offers homeopathic relief of seasonal allergy symptoms in tablet or pellets.  Tablets can be taken by adults and children over the age of 6.  Pellets can be taken by adults, children and babies.  They also offer a similar product in liquid format for children ages 0-9.  

Pollen Plus

Pollen Plus is a preventative homeopathic treatment which desensitizes the immune system to seasonal allergies.  It should be taken starting one month before allergy season begins and then throughout allergy season to boost immunity.   The Pollen Plus formula is taken only once weekly and is suitable for adults and children over the age of 2.  Pollen Plus can be used in conjunction with other seasonal allergy remedies.

Deep Immune for Allergies by St Francis Herbs

One of the most effective products to relieve seasonal allergies is Deep Immune for Allergies by St Francis Herbs.   It is a unique formula which combines herbs and homeopathic ingredients to address acute allergy symptoms while supporting the immune system and any underlying, chronic issues which may be the cause of allergy symptoms in the first place.   

Optimal immune function requires balance between competing sets of immune cells. Allergy sufferers are known to have a predominance of T-helper cells – as are those with autoimmune diseases and cancer!   Taking a balancing product like Deep Immune for Allergies can help restore appropriate immune function while also offering seasonal allergy relief.

To support overall immune function, it is best to start taking Deep Immune for Allergies 4-6 weeks ahead of allergy season.  However, quick relief of acute symptoms can still be expected even without advanced supplementation. 

The post Real Allergy Relief, Naturally appeared first on The Granary.

1. Fish Oil

Fish oil contains DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) an essential Omega-3 fatty acid, which is very important when it comes to brain health. Nerve-cell membranes in the brain, which are responsible for all of our cognitive functions, are made up of fat. By supplementing with healthy fats, specifically DHA, you can keep these membranes limber in order to maintain and even improve cognitive function.

Studies indicate that DHA can help improve attention, focus, memory and the efficiency of information processing, which are all important factors when returning to work or school.

2. Probiotics

It’s no secret that probiotics, or the “friendly bacteria”, are important when it comes to digestive health, but these microorganisms do more than just maintaining and replenishing intestinal flora, they are also a powerful immune booster.

Immunity starts in the small intestine, where up to 80% of the immune system is produced. Therefore the health of your small intestine is directly linked to the health of your immune system. This fall you can beat back to school bugs, while improving your digestive health, by supplementing with probiotics.

3. Multivitamin

No matter what age, it’s always important to ensure that we are receiving adequate levels of nutrients through our diet. This is especially important for children, who are at risk of developing negative effects on brain development if they lack the proper nutrition. If you’re a picky eater or you’ve encountered one, you know it’s not always possible to ensure that you’re getting all the nutrients you need through your diet, which is where a multivitamin comes in.

By including a multivitamin in your back to school routine you can not only instil healthy habits in your kids, but you can ensure that they’re getting the right nutrients to support bone health and immunity, while improving cognitive function and increasing their energy. Don’t forget to take your own multivitamin as well!

4. Greens

Greens pack a whole lot of nutrition per serving and are an important part of a healthy diet. Not only are they full of minerals and vitamins, especially the dark leafy ones, they also contain powerful antioxidants.

Everyone knows it’s important to get enough greens in your diet, 4-6 servings for children and 7-10 for adults, but sometimes it’s difficult to meet these recommendations. If you’re not getting enough greens try adding a Greens supplement to your diet. Disguise it in a simple fruit smoothie, the perfect breakfast for providing the energy needed for a long day at school at work.

5. Protein

Protein, which is made up of amino acids, is essential for repairing, building and maintaining cells in the human body. Protein is essential for growth and development during childhood, adolescence, and pregnancy.

Make sure you’re getting enough protein by adding it to your morning smoothie in the form of a powder. With a variety of flavours and a smooth texture you’ll hardly notice it while ensuring that you’re getting enough protein throughout the day.

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As a lifelong self proclaimed environmentalist, there are some values that I hold in high regard and I try hard to incorporate those values not only into my personal life but my business too. Good Chocolate, like those we celebrate on Saturday Dec 2 & 3 at the annual Chocolate Party, follow the majority of my core ideals including.

Organic Agriculture – an ecological method of agricultural production that respects the natural environment. Organics focuses on enhancing the health and vitality of the soil, preserving biodiversity, promoting animal welfare and preserving the ecological integrity of our environment. The majority of the chocolate we sell, and all the chocolate we celebrate, is produced using organic agriculture practices.

Non-GMO – Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are living organisms whose genetic material has been artificially manipulated in a laboratory through genetic engineering, or GE. While there are some good arguments in favour of genetic modification, I believe strongly that the consumer has the right to know. When purchasing chocolate I look for companies that clearly state they do not contain GMOs

Fair Trade – Fairly traded products support social justice and fair labour. This is especially important when it comes to chocolate (and coffee) as these industries have traditionally turned a blind eye to social justice and instead have supported child labour, un fair work wages and other social injustices. Sourcing Fair Trade Certified Chocolate is very important for small scale farmers in third world countries whose livelihoods and happiness depend on receiving a fair wage.

Local – At The Granary, we know that organic and local go better together. While cacao is not a local product, there are some pretty amazing local companies making chocolate and hiring Canadian workers. Many of our celebrated chocolate companies like Camino from Ottawa, Giddy Yoyo from Orangeville Ontario, Hummingbird in Almonte and more support the buy local mandate.

Join us Saturday Dec 2 & 3 for a fun filled day of good Chocolate and the important values that go along with good Chocolate!

Chocolate Party 2022

The post Why a Chocolate Party? appeared first on The Granary.

As a mother of three, I am always worried about the health of my kids. Are they getting the right amount of required nutrients with their sometimes picky diet? Is their immune system strong enough to handle the onslaught of germs and viruses that the winter month inevitably brings?  Sick kids are no fun, and they put a major halt to the smooth flow of daily life. In order to boost their immunity and ensure their nutritional needs are met, I sat down with one of The Granary’s Nutritionists to develop a package that would help supplement any child’s diet, support brain development and improve immune function. 

The result of that meeting was the Healthy Kids Package designed for children 3+. We have taken much consideration to put together a package that is both highly effective and cost considerate. One package will give you optimal nutritional and immune support for 60 days (for 1 child or 30 days for 2 children) for a cost of $90.00 That is more than a 15% savings.

Multivitamin with Whole Food Concentrates – 1 with breakfast,  1 with dinner

 A multi vitamin is like an insurance policy, making sure basic nutritional needs are met even when the diet may not be optimal. However, not all multivitamins are created equal. Many children formulas are full of sugar, colours and artificial flavours and or sweeteners. The Healthy Kids Package contains the Big Friends Chewable Multi Vitamin & Minerals with whole food concentrates. It is sweetened with naturally occurring xylitol and contains fruit flavours. Formulated to support the development and maintenance of healthy bones, teeth, gums, eyesight, night vision, healthy skin, membranes, and immune function. It is recommend that children chew 1 tablet 2 times a day.

Multi Strain Probiotic – Chew 1 at bedtime 

Probiotics provide the body with beneficial bacteria which are essential for healthy gut flora.   Beneficial bacteria colonize the digestive tract and provide balance against “bad” bacteria or yeasts.   A lack of beneficial bacteria from a poor diet, illness or use of antibiotics can lead to poor absorption of nutrients, intestinal irritation, diarrhea or constipation.  Healthy gut flora regulates immune function, can reduce allergies and also plays an important role mood regulation and the reduction or prevention of autoimmune conditions. The NOW brand Extra Strength BerryDophilus provides 10 Billion CFU from a combination of 10 clinically validated probiotic bacterial strains designed to support gastrointestinal health and healthy immune system function. It is recommend that children chew 1 tasty tablet daily at least 5-6 days a week. Probiotics can be taken at any time and with other supplements but the best time to take a probiotic is at bedtime which allows the bacteria uninterrupted opportunity to colonize the gut.  Probiotics should be taken at least 2 hours away from antibiotic medication. 

Fish Oil with Vitamin D-  0.5-1 tsp (5ml) daily with a meal

Both fish oil and Vitamin D have been highly studied with results showing many health benefits associated with both. Many of these studies have linked the active compounds (DHA & EPA) found in fish oil with healthy brain development, improved immunity, mood and more. It is an essential nutrient (meaning the body does not produce it) that many children lack in their diet. Vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin,  has long been recognized for its important role in bone health and immunity.   Additionally, Vitamin D has been found to play a role in mental health. Our Healthy Kids package includes the great tasting Sea-licious Kids Omega 3 with vitamin D. The flavour of Cotton Candy is made using a steam-distillation process that captures the essence of burnt sugar. This chemical-free process draws out the fragrant, sweet molecules without any sugar residue. A daily yummy spoonful has your kids saying more please! It is recommend that children take 0.5 – 1tsp daily. Fish oil can be taken with other supplements and can be added to juice, smoothies and more or taken right off the spoon. 

Anti-Cold Echinacea Tincture – 1 ml in a little water, once daily

Echinacea is an immune boosting anti-viral herb that helps fight off infections.  When taken at the first sign of symptoms, Natural Factors ECHINAMIDE Anti-Cold Alcohol Free Herb Tincture can help stop a cold from developing, ease symptoms, and accelerate healing. It works great as a preventative to keep kids healthy during the school year.  Take daily throughout cold and flu season, but be sure to take 1 week off every 8.  At first signs of infection, or when infection is present in the house, children can take 1 ml 1-3 times a day in water or juice. (can also be taken straight).

Tips for healthy kids!

• Encourage drinking water rather than juice. Include frozen fruits, drops of stevia or use special water cups to help picky drinkers stay hydrated. 
• Offer a variety of food at meal and snack times to ensure a balanced diet
• Stay away from sodas, fried or processed foods, sugar and white flour
• Make time for active play daily and limit screen time – kids need to move and explore their world
• Be consistent with bedtime and plan for extra quiet time when needed

As with all natural health products, you should talk to your health practitioner to ensure the products are right for you. Brands and products can not be substituted for the quoted price, however, we are always happy to help you find the products that are right for you.

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INGREDIENTS

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A vegan or plant based diet is nothing new, but it is gaining in popularity, and that is not without reason.

A plant based diet appeals to my inner environmentalist. I believe we all need to step up and make some personal changes for the betterment and survival of the planet. From the worrying predictions about global warming to the destruction of animal and plant habitats by deforestation and the impact of plastic waste in the oceans, the problems facing our one and only earth are vast and varied. Switching to plant based foods more often can be a small way to make a positive difference. Some of the environmental benefits of a plant based diet include:

1. Lower Carbon Emissions – Livestock contribute to the amount of methane, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide – all gases that contribute heavily to climate change, emitted in to the atmosphere. Add in transportation and the fuel used to grow feed for livestock, and the carbon emissions increase more.
2. Habitat Protection – Livestock require space. Almost a third of the earth’s arable land is used for animal agriculture, contributing to deforestation and desertification. Both phenomena contribute to the extinction of whole species of animals.
3. Water Preservation – Animal agriculture requires huge amounts of water and contributes to water pollution and erosion.  It takes 100 to 200 times more water to raise a pound of beef than it does to raise a pound of plant foods. Water pollution from agriculture is the leading cause of ocean dead zones, areas polluted to such a degree that marine life can not survive.

There is also a strong health based reason for eating a plant based diet. When done properly, all of your required vitamins and nutritants can be obtained.  A vegan diet has been known to reduce inflammation and pain, improve digestion and help obtain a level of health that improves appearance and performance.

A complete vegan diet can be and is achieved and enjoyed my many. For others ,making plant based options more often is enough. Personally I have been a vegetarian most of my life but have never sustained a vegan diet but I do not prescribe to any strict diet or dietary group.  I do, instead, try to incorporate the best of many healthy dietary lifestyles into my own food practices whether it be paleo, gluten free or vegan. I try to eat good fats and whole foods. I reduce simple sugars and carbohydrates. I include complete, plant based protein sources more often and most of all I strive for life balance.

The options for vegans, or those wishing to include more plant based products in their life, has increased and improved dramatically in recent years. I encourage you to stop by during our Vegan Days Event May 10-12 to try some delicious plant based fare!

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1. Eat Healthy Fats NOT Trans Fats – We all need fat in our diet. Fats are essential in many processes throughout the body and should be eaten in moderation at every meal. Not only do they give us energy but they are essential for generating new cells, transporting vitamins, protecting the brain and regulating many bodily processes. That being said, not all fats are created equal. The North American Diet is high in fat but can be very low in “healthy fat”. There are three general types of fat including:
   • Healthy Saturated Fat (solid at room temperature ie: butter, animal fat, coconut oil)
   • Healthy Unsaturated fat (Omega 6 plant oils ie: nuts, seeds, vegetable oils and Omega 3 fish oils)
   • Unhealthy Trans Fat (primarily artificially made through hydrogenation and present in fast food, fried food and commercial baked goods)
2. Get Enough Sleep – Sleep is essential to good health. When we are sleeping our body does its work, repairing and regenerating itself. Lack of sleep can lead to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Researchers believe sleeping too little causes disruptions in underlying health conditions and biological processes, including blood pressure and inflammation. Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Good sleep habits including reducing screen time before bed, sleeping in a dark room and maintaining a consistent sleep time. All which can help improve the quality and quantity of your sleep.
3. Reduce Stress  – Stress can wreak havoc on your body and your overall health. How much stress you experience and how you react to it can lead to a wide variety of health problems including an increase risk for heart disease including high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Stress can negatively affect your sleep, zap your energy levels and create tension in relationships. Finding ways to reduce your stress and mitigate your response to stress can go a long way to improving your health. Tools like meditation, exercise and a healthy diet can help deal with high stress situations. Adaptogen herbs such as Ashwaganda or supplements like L-Theanine can also help with stress management.
4. Practice Good Dental Hygiene – It may seem unconnected but studies have shown that bacteria in the mouth involved in the development of gum disease can move into the bloodstream and cause an elevation in C-reactive protein, a marker for inflammation in the blood vessels. This may increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Brush and floss daily to prevent gum disease and reduce your risk of heart disease. Increasing the healthy bacteria (probiotics) in your body can also help defend against unwanted and dangerous bacteria.
5. Consume Less Added Sugar- Not only will eating less sugar improve your dental hygiene it can also reduce your risk of dying of  heart disease. Added sugars make up at least 10% of the calories in the North American diet (can be as highs 25%). A 15 year study on added sugar and heart disease published in JAMA Internal Medicine, resulted in solid findings that  the odds of dying from heart disease rose in tandem with the percentage of sugar in the diet—and that was true regardless of a person’s age, sex, physical activity level, and body-mass index. Sugar sweetened beverages (pop, energy drinks, juice punches) are by far the biggest source of added sugar in our diets but cookies, cakes, candy, and other sweet foods also contribute. Sugar has also been linked to increased inflammation in the body. Reducing sugar intake to less than 100 calories (women) or 150 calories (men) can have a positive effect not only on the health of your heart but on digestion, joint pain, cognitive function and more.

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–  Zabrina Scharfe, 32 weeks pregnant with her 3rd child.  Jan. 2018

About a year ago I sat down with one of the nutritionists here at the Granary to discuss the various nutritional needs of different sections of the population. We were on a quest to develop a plan to help people meet their unique nutritional goals in an effective and convenient way. We started by brainstorming who had unique nutritional needs.  At the time I had just had my third baby and was still exclusively breastfeeding, so naturally pregnant and nursing women were near the top of my list. I had successfully navigated my third pregnancy and birth without any major complications, but like many, I struggled with iron levels and I worried about giving my child optimal nutritional conditions in which to thrive. I found this concern multiplies with subsequent children because as mothers we tend to take care of ourselves after taking care of everyone else.

In order to help new and experienced mothers meet their unique nutritional needs required during pregnancy and nursing we developed a Prenatal Support Package. The Prenatal Package supports both mother and baby by providing the required nutrients often recommend by midwives and doctors. We have taken much consideration to put together a package that is both highly effective and cost considerate. One package will give moms optimal nutritional support for 45 days for a cost of $115.00 That is more than a 10% savings.

Prenatal Multi-Vitamin with Folic Acid – 1 capsule with each breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for a number of nutrients nearly doubles during pregnancy and a list of unwanted complications can arise if mom falls short of satisfying these needs. A well balanced Multi Vitamin designed to support these needs, such as the Progressive Prenatal Formula can support a women’s needs during all stages of pregnancy. The addition of Folic Acid is extremely important to reduce the risk of birth defects such as spina bifida. Our bodies are not designed to process a whole days worth of vitamins & minerals at one time. In order to achieve optimal absorption of nutrients, divided does of multivitamins are always recommended. We recommend 1 capsules be taken with a meal, ideally three times a day. A minimum of 2 times a day will also provide nutritional advantages. 

High DHA Fish Oil – 2 soft gels daily with food 

Fish oil is one of the most studied supplements on the market. Many of these studies have linked one of the active compounds (DHA) found in fish oil with brain development both in utero and beyond. Our Prenatal Package recommends Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA to support brain, eye and nervous system function in developing babies as well as supporting immunity and mood for moms. It is recommend that 2 soft gels be taken daily with food. They can be taken with other supplements. 

Multi Strain Probiotic – 1 capsule daily at bedtime

Probiotics provide the body with beneficial bacteria which are essential for healthy gut flora.   Beneficial bacteria colonize the digestive tract, lining of the mouth, urinary tract, vagina, stomach and the surface of the skin.  They provide balance against “bad” bacteria or yeasts which can help prevent UTIs or yeast infections which can be common during pregnancy and nursing.   Probiotics can also help with heartburn, gas and constipation. Probiotic supplementation during pregnancy may reduce the risk of eczema and allergies in children. This package includes the Natural Factors Women’s Formula Probiotic with 12 billion active bacteria and the addition of cranberry for more antioxidants and added UTI prevention. One capsule should be taken daily, with or without food. Unless indicated otherwise on the label, the best time to take a probiotic is at bedtime which allows the bacteria uninterrupted opportunity to colonize the gut.  Probiotics can be taken with other supplements but should be taken at least 2 and up to 4 hours ways from any antibiotic medication. 

Iron – Iron deficiency or anemia is one of the most common, preventable pregnancy complications. Iron is hard to absorb for many people and the iron needs during pregnancy increase dramatically as the mother’s blood volume increases to transport oxygen to the fetus. Iron deficiency can result in extreme fatigue as well as complications at birth. Your healthcare provider will likely monitor your iron levels throughout your pregnancy. Many women are advised to take an iron supplement at some point during or after pregnancy.  Some iron supplements can be very hard to take  causing constipation and other stomach issues. Easy to digest, liquid iron can be cost prohibitive for many. All of this taken into consideration, our Prenatal package includes an easy to absorb, non constipating Carbonyl Iron capsule from Ottawa based company Pure Lab. It is recommend that 1 or 2 capsules be taken daily, ideally on an empty stomach.  

Tips for a health pregnancy

• Stay hydrated: drink lots of water. 
• Eat a balanced diet with regular, healthy snacks. 
• Include lots of calcium rich foods such as: almonds, broccoli, dairy products, oranges, sardines 
• Decrease consumption of caffeine, fried or processed foods, sugar and white flour
• Make time for gentle exercise like an evening walk around the neighbourhood or calming yoga
• Get plenty of rest and nap when you need to!

As with all natural health products, be sure to talk to your health practitioner to ensure the products are right for you. Brands and products can not be substituted for the quoted price, however, we are always happy to help you find the products that are right for you. Check out our other Health Packages

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