Beauty
Last chance: whole body detox 2013
18/Mar/13 10:21 AM
by Kate Whimster, BCom, MIFHI, ND
Only 1 WEEK LEFT to register for my Whole Body Detox Program at either Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health and Kew Beach Naturopathic Clinic - scroll down to find out how!
Here are just a few results experienced by participants last year:
The program includes:
You know what’s great about my Whole Body Detox Group Program? Not only do you get the personalized support from a naturopathic doctor (me!) during your one-on-one visits, but each week we dive into a different detox topic, including some you may never have thought of.
I have an amazing group of guest speakers that are coming along for the ride and bringing their knowledge and support with them! Check out this year’s topics:
Week 1:
Did you know that detoxification can help with:
1. Safe detox. As a Naturopathic Doctor, I am the expert in natural therapies, including how to detoxify your body in a healthy, safe, and effective way for long-term success. Your unique needs will be taken into account and addressed in your individualized program and I monitor you along the way to ensure you are safe.
2. Supported detox, both from me during our one-on-one sessions and from our amazing group of detoxers that meet for our group sessions each week. We are here to help you achieve your goals, answer your questions, and keep you motivated! Try getting that from a box at the health food store!
3. Personalized detox to YOU, based on YOUR goals and health concerns. You will receive a personalized detox protocol and specific suggestions to help you achieve YOUR goals and nobody else’s. This is NOT a one-size-fits-all detox kit.
4. Whole body detox, meaning this is not just a “bowel cleanse” (aka diarrhea!), a “liver detox” (which may also give you diarrhea and can make you feel worse than when you started), or a “fast” (aka starvation and misery). I take a total body approach to improving the function of ALL your major detoxification organs, and that includes digestion, liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, lymph, and that all important detox depot, STRESS.
5. Empowering detox. I teach you how to care for your body better so you can feel better! This program includes loads of learning, including stimulating group sessions, captivating guest speakers, and lots of hand-on, participatory learning that is fun and informative!
6. Fun detox! This is not a bootcamp, it’s meant to be fun! Fasten your seatbelts for interactive sessions, lively discussion, and a forum for any and all your questions (embarrassing or not). Bring your spouse, friends, family along with you on your journey!
How much?
The regular price for this program would be over $730 for new patients and over $650 for existing patients.
I am offering this package for $477+HST for new patients and $397+HST for existing patients, a savings of over $250! Package is to be pre-paid on the first visit and naturopathic visits are eligible for extended health benefits coverage (check with your insurance provider for coverage details) and individual receipts will be provided after each visit.
This is an amazing price for a complete, personalized, supported, and supervised detox program!
When and Where?
I’m running the program at both my convenient practice locations! Register by Monday, March 25th and have your first visit in the package before Saturday, April 6th. Call the clinic location best for you:
Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health
73 Warren Road, Suite 102
Phone: 416-792-4400
Group sessions will run Tuesdays 7 to 7:45pm, April 9th through May 7th held at Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health
Kew Beach Natural Health Clinic
2010 Queen St. East, 2nd floor
Phone: 416-690-6168
Group sessions Thursdays 7 to 7:45pm, April 11th through May 9th held at Kew Beach Natural Health Clinic
Do you want to feel vibrant and healthy?
Do you want to be empowered to care for your health?
Do you want to make your health and wellbeing a priority?
Only 1 WEEK LEFT to register for my Whole Body Detox Program at either Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health and Kew Beach Naturopathic Clinic - scroll down to find out how!
- Feel much better and have more energy
- Lost weight, fit into clothes that haven’t fit in years
- Made self-care a priority
- Learned much more about nutrition and how to make healthy meals
- Made simple habit changes to safeguard health
- Improvement in sleep quality
- Resolved digestive difficulties
- Noticed improvements in skin (and others did too)
The program includes:
- 3 one-on-one naturopathic visits
- 5 fun and interactive group coaching and support sessions
- Detoxification diet program and personalized detox protocol
You know what’s great about my Whole Body Detox Group Program? Not only do you get the personalized support from a naturopathic doctor (me!) during your one-on-one visits, but each week we dive into a different detox topic, including some you may never have thought of.
I have an amazing group of guest speakers that are coming along for the ride and bringing their knowledge and support with them! Check out this year’s topics:
Week 1:
- Group introductions and goals
- Why detox?
- Program overview
- Diet plan discussion and questions
- Demo tracking tools
- Check-in with group, questions, highs and lows
- Delightful drainage to support detox
- Water is wonderful: hydration and hydrotherapy self-care
- Diet tips and tricks
- Guest speaker: Tamara Green from Living Kitchen Wellness
- Check-in with group, questions, highs and lows
- Sound sleep secrets
- Stress busting tips and tricks
- Guided meditation/breathing exercise
- Guest speaker: Adriana Machado at Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health
- Guest speaker: Louise Doran, ND at Kew Beach Naturopathic Clinic
- Check-in with group, questions, highs and lows
- Food reintroduction planning
- Exercise is the best medicine
- Integrate exercise into your day
- Guest speaker: Jonas Eyford, DC
- Check-in with group, questions, highs and lows
- Safe skin care
- Lymphatic health and how-to’s
- Review and group feedback
- Guest speaker: Akari Yokokawa, RMT
Did you know that detoxification can help with:
- Weight loss
- Fatigue and lack of mental clarity
- Digestive issues
- Weak immunity and/or frequent infections
- Hormone balance at any age
- Skin conditions
- Allergies
1. Safe detox. As a Naturopathic Doctor, I am the expert in natural therapies, including how to detoxify your body in a healthy, safe, and effective way for long-term success. Your unique needs will be taken into account and addressed in your individualized program and I monitor you along the way to ensure you are safe.
2. Supported detox, both from me during our one-on-one sessions and from our amazing group of detoxers that meet for our group sessions each week. We are here to help you achieve your goals, answer your questions, and keep you motivated! Try getting that from a box at the health food store!
3. Personalized detox to YOU, based on YOUR goals and health concerns. You will receive a personalized detox protocol and specific suggestions to help you achieve YOUR goals and nobody else’s. This is NOT a one-size-fits-all detox kit.
4. Whole body detox, meaning this is not just a “bowel cleanse” (aka diarrhea!), a “liver detox” (which may also give you diarrhea and can make you feel worse than when you started), or a “fast” (aka starvation and misery). I take a total body approach to improving the function of ALL your major detoxification organs, and that includes digestion, liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, lymph, and that all important detox depot, STRESS.
5. Empowering detox. I teach you how to care for your body better so you can feel better! This program includes loads of learning, including stimulating group sessions, captivating guest speakers, and lots of hand-on, participatory learning that is fun and informative!
6. Fun detox! This is not a bootcamp, it’s meant to be fun! Fasten your seatbelts for interactive sessions, lively discussion, and a forum for any and all your questions (embarrassing or not). Bring your spouse, friends, family along with you on your journey!
How much?
The regular price for this program would be over $730 for new patients and over $650 for existing patients.
I am offering this package for $477+HST for new patients and $397+HST for existing patients, a savings of over $250! Package is to be pre-paid on the first visit and naturopathic visits are eligible for extended health benefits coverage (check with your insurance provider for coverage details) and individual receipts will be provided after each visit.
This is an amazing price for a complete, personalized, supported, and supervised detox program!
When and Where?
I’m running the program at both my convenient practice locations! Register by Monday, March 25th and have your first visit in the package before Saturday, April 6th. Call the clinic location best for you:
Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health
73 Warren Road, Suite 102
Phone: 416-792-4400
Group sessions will run Tuesdays 7 to 7:45pm, April 9th through May 7th held at Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health
Kew Beach Natural Health Clinic
2010 Queen St. East, 2nd floor
Phone: 416-690-6168
Group sessions Thursdays 7 to 7:45pm, April 11th through May 9th held at Kew Beach Natural Health Clinic
Register now to get on the road to feeling fantastic again!
Space is limited and strictly first come, first served.
Deadline is Monday, March 25th, 2013.
Comments
Whole body detox: then and now
01/Mar/13 04:48 PM
by Kate Whimster, BCom, MIFHI, ND
Please note, as of this writing, I still have a couple of early-bird spots available for this program at Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health! Scroll down to find out how to register!
As you may be aware, I run a Whole Body Detox Group Program each year in the spring. Now that you ARE aware of that, you may be wondering “Kate, how will this year’s program be different from last year?” I’m so glad you asked!
How is it different?
To make the program better than ever, I’ve added or changed several things:
The most important aspects of the program remain the same! This program is:
1. Safe detox. As a Naturopathic Doctor, I am the expert in natural therapies, including how to detoxify your body in a healthy, safe, and effective way for long-term success. Your unique needs will be taken into account and addressed in your individualized program and I monitor you along the way to ensure you are safe.
2. Supported detox, both from me during our one-on-one sessions and from our amazing group of detoxers that meet for our group sessions each week. We are here to help you achieve your goals, answer your questions, and keep you motivated! Try getting that from a box at the health food store!
3. Personalized detox to YOU, based on YOUR goals and health concerns. You will receive a personalized detox protocol and specific suggestions to help you achieve YOUR goals and nobody else’s. This is NOT a one-size-fits-all detox kit.
4. Whole body detox, meaning this is not just a “bowel cleanse” (aka diarrhea!), a “liver detox” (which may also give you diarrhea and can make you feel worse than when you started), or a “fast” (aka starvation and misery). I take a total body approach to improving the function of ALL your major detoxification organs, and that includes digestion, liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, lymph, and that all important detox depot, STRESS.
5. Empowering detox. I teach you how to care for your body better so you can feel better! This program includes loads of learning, including stimulating group sessions, captivating guest speakers, and lots of hand-on, participatory learning that is fun and informative!
6. Fun detox! This is not a bootcamp, it’s meant to be fun! Fasten your seatbelts for interactive sessions, lively discussion, and a forum for any and all your questions (embarrassing or not). Bring your spouse, friends, family along with you on your journey!
And, many of the particular details that worked great last year remain the same, such as the number of naturopathic visits, the number of group sessions, the price, the key topics each week, and the basic structure of the detox diet and protocols.
For full program details, see my blog Naturopathic detox for your whole body! A limited number of spots are available, so register ASAP!
Why would I want to detox?
In our crazy, toxic world, detox is key to long-lasting health and can help in treatment for:
The regular price for this program would be over $730 for new patients and over $650 for existing patients.
I am offering this package for $477+HST for new patients and $397+HST for existing patients, a savings of over $250! In addition, the FIRST 5 PEOPLE to register at each practice location will receive an additional $50 off their package! I still have a couple of early-bird spots at my Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health location, so get moving!
Package is to be pre-paid on the first visit and naturopathic visits are eligible for extended health benefits coverage (check with your insurance provider for coverage details) and individual receipts will be provided after each visit.
This is an amazing price for a complete, personalized, supported, and supervised detox program!
When and Where?
I’m running the program at both my convenient practice locations! Register by Monday, March 25th and have your first visit in the package before Saturday, April 6th. Call the clinic location best for you:
Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health
73 Warren Road, Suite 102
Phone: 416-792-4400
Group sessions will run Tuesdays 7 to 7:45pm, April 9th through May 7th held at Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health
Kew Beach Natural Health Clinic
2010 Queen St. East, 2nd floor
Phone: 416-690-6168
Group sessions Thursdays 7 to 7:45pm, April 11th through May 9th held at Kew Beach Natural Health Clinic
Do you want to feel GREAT in 2013?
As you may be aware, I run a Whole Body Detox Group Program each year in the spring. Now that you ARE aware of that, you may be wondering “Kate, how will this year’s program be different from last year?” I’m so glad you asked!
How is it different?
To make the program better than ever, I’ve added or changed several things:
- The detox diet is more structured, more supported, and more effective. As always, we will customize your detox diet based on your needs.
- We will have more amazing guest speakers! In fact, we will have guest speakers for most weeks’ topics and they will come ready to take your detox to the next level.
- Group sessions will be more interactive, with more time for discussions and hands-on learning.
- Compliance and progress will be monitored more comprehensively to ensure you get the most out of your detox.
The most important aspects of the program remain the same! This program is:
1. Safe detox. As a Naturopathic Doctor, I am the expert in natural therapies, including how to detoxify your body in a healthy, safe, and effective way for long-term success. Your unique needs will be taken into account and addressed in your individualized program and I monitor you along the way to ensure you are safe.
2. Supported detox, both from me during our one-on-one sessions and from our amazing group of detoxers that meet for our group sessions each week. We are here to help you achieve your goals, answer your questions, and keep you motivated! Try getting that from a box at the health food store!
3. Personalized detox to YOU, based on YOUR goals and health concerns. You will receive a personalized detox protocol and specific suggestions to help you achieve YOUR goals and nobody else’s. This is NOT a one-size-fits-all detox kit.
4. Whole body detox, meaning this is not just a “bowel cleanse” (aka diarrhea!), a “liver detox” (which may also give you diarrhea and can make you feel worse than when you started), or a “fast” (aka starvation and misery). I take a total body approach to improving the function of ALL your major detoxification organs, and that includes digestion, liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, lymph, and that all important detox depot, STRESS.
5. Empowering detox. I teach you how to care for your body better so you can feel better! This program includes loads of learning, including stimulating group sessions, captivating guest speakers, and lots of hand-on, participatory learning that is fun and informative!
6. Fun detox! This is not a bootcamp, it’s meant to be fun! Fasten your seatbelts for interactive sessions, lively discussion, and a forum for any and all your questions (embarrassing or not). Bring your spouse, friends, family along with you on your journey!
And, many of the particular details that worked great last year remain the same, such as the number of naturopathic visits, the number of group sessions, the price, the key topics each week, and the basic structure of the detox diet and protocols.
For full program details, see my blog Naturopathic detox for your whole body! A limited number of spots are available, so register ASAP!
Why would I want to detox?
In our crazy, toxic world, detox is key to long-lasting health and can help in treatment for:
- Weight loss
- Fatigue and lack of mental clarity
- Digestive “issues” (constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, IBS, bloating, gas, and many more!)
- Poor immunity and/or frequent infections (cold, flu, sinusitis, yeast infections, etc)
- Hormonal balance at any age (PMS, period pain, menopause, fertility, the list goes on…)
- Skin conditions of all sorts (acne, eczema, psoriasis, itchy skin, hives, etc)
- Allergies (yes, these can be reduced and even eliminated!)
The regular price for this program would be over $730 for new patients and over $650 for existing patients.
I am offering this package for $477+HST for new patients and $397+HST for existing patients, a savings of over $250! In addition, the FIRST 5 PEOPLE to register at each practice location will receive an additional $50 off their package! I still have a couple of early-bird spots at my Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health location, so get moving!
Package is to be pre-paid on the first visit and naturopathic visits are eligible for extended health benefits coverage (check with your insurance provider for coverage details) and individual receipts will be provided after each visit.
This is an amazing price for a complete, personalized, supported, and supervised detox program!
When and Where?
I’m running the program at both my convenient practice locations! Register by Monday, March 25th and have your first visit in the package before Saturday, April 6th. Call the clinic location best for you:
Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health
73 Warren Road, Suite 102
Phone: 416-792-4400
Group sessions will run Tuesdays 7 to 7:45pm, April 9th through May 7th held at Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health
Kew Beach Natural Health Clinic
2010 Queen St. East, 2nd floor
Phone: 416-690-6168
Group sessions Thursdays 7 to 7:45pm, April 11th through May 9th held at Kew Beach Natural Health Clinic
Register by Monday, March 25th, 2013, spots are limited!
Naturopathic detox for your whole body
22/Feb/13 03:52 PM
by Kate Whimster, BCom, MIFHI, ND
Before I tell you how to get started with that, please note that I am offering the first 5 people to register at each practice location an additional discount on this package - scroll down for the full details.
I’m excited to announce my Whole Body Detox Program is happening again this spring with some amazing improvements! Feeling sluggish, bloated, foggy, and unwell? Great! Well, not great for you right now, but luckily for you, detoxification can help with that, as well as:
Here are just a few reasons the Whole Body Detox Program is fantastic:
1. Safe detox. As a Naturopathic Doctor, I am the expert in natural therapies, including how to detoxify your body in a healthy, safe, and effective way for long-term success. Your unique needs will be taken into account and addressed in your individualized program and I monitor you along the way to ensure you are safe.
2. Supported detox, both from me during our one-on-one sessions and from our amazing group of detoxers that meet for our group sessions each week. We are here to help you achieve your goals, answer your questions, and keep you motivated! Try getting that from a box at the health food store!
3. Personalized detox to YOU, based on YOUR goals and health concerns. You will receive a personalized detox protocol and specific suggestions to help you achieve YOUR goals and nobody else’s. This is NOT a one-size-fits-all detox kit.
4. Whole body detox, meaning this is not just a “bowel cleanse” (aka diarrhea!), a “liver detox” (which may also give you diarrhea and can make you feel worse than when you started), or a “fast” (aka starvation and misery). I take a total body approach to improving the function of ALL your major detoxification organs, and that includes digestion, liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, lymph, and that all important detox depot, STRESS.
5. Empowering detox. I teach you how to care for your body better so you can feel better! This program includes loads of learning, including stimulating group sessions, captivating guest speakers, and lots of hand-on, participatory learning that is fun and informative!
6. Fun detox! This is not a bootcamp, it’s meant to be fun! Fasten your seatbelts for interactive sessions, lively discussion, and a forum for any and all your questions (embarrassing or not). Bring your spouse, friends, family along with you on your journey!
What?
The program includes:
The regular price for this program would be over $730 for new patients and over $650 for existing patients.
I am offering this package for $477+HST for new patients and $397+HST for existing patients, a savings of over $250! In addition, the FIRST 5 PEOPLE to register at each practice location will receive an additional $50 off their package!
Package is to be pre-paid on the first visit and naturopathic visits are eligible for extended health benefits coverage (check with your insurance provider for coverage details) and individual receipts will be provided after each visit.
This is an amazing price for a complete, personalized, supported, and supervised detox program!
When and Where?
I’m running the program at both my convenient practice locations! Register by Monday, March 25th and have your first visit in the package before Saturday, April 6th. Call the clinic location best for you:
Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health
73 Warren Road, Suite 102
Phone: 416-792-4400
Group sessions will run Tuesdays 7 to 7:45pm, April 9th through May 7th held at Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health
Kew Beach Natural Health Clinic
2010 Queen St. East, 2nd floor
Phone: 416-690-6168
Group sessions Thursdays 7 to 7:45pm, April 11th through May 9th held at Kew Beach Natural Health Clinic
Do you want to feel GREAT in 2013?
I’m excited to announce my Whole Body Detox Program is happening again this spring with some amazing improvements! Feeling sluggish, bloated, foggy, and unwell? Great! Well, not great for you right now, but luckily for you, detoxification can help with that, as well as:
- Weight loss
- Fatigue and lack of mental clarity
- Digestive “issues” (constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, IBS, bloating, gas, and many more!)
- Poor immunity and/or frequent infections (cold, flu, sinusitis, yeast infections, etc)
- Hormonal balance at any age (PMS, period pain, menopause, fertility, the list goes on…)
- Skin conditions of all sorts (acne, eczema, psoriasis, itchy skin, hives, etc)
- Allergies (yes, these can be reduced and even eliminated!)
Here are just a few reasons the Whole Body Detox Program is fantastic:
1. Safe detox. As a Naturopathic Doctor, I am the expert in natural therapies, including how to detoxify your body in a healthy, safe, and effective way for long-term success. Your unique needs will be taken into account and addressed in your individualized program and I monitor you along the way to ensure you are safe.
2. Supported detox, both from me during our one-on-one sessions and from our amazing group of detoxers that meet for our group sessions each week. We are here to help you achieve your goals, answer your questions, and keep you motivated! Try getting that from a box at the health food store!
3. Personalized detox to YOU, based on YOUR goals and health concerns. You will receive a personalized detox protocol and specific suggestions to help you achieve YOUR goals and nobody else’s. This is NOT a one-size-fits-all detox kit.
4. Whole body detox, meaning this is not just a “bowel cleanse” (aka diarrhea!), a “liver detox” (which may also give you diarrhea and can make you feel worse than when you started), or a “fast” (aka starvation and misery). I take a total body approach to improving the function of ALL your major detoxification organs, and that includes digestion, liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, lymph, and that all important detox depot, STRESS.
5. Empowering detox. I teach you how to care for your body better so you can feel better! This program includes loads of learning, including stimulating group sessions, captivating guest speakers, and lots of hand-on, participatory learning that is fun and informative!
6. Fun detox! This is not a bootcamp, it’s meant to be fun! Fasten your seatbelts for interactive sessions, lively discussion, and a forum for any and all your questions (embarrassing or not). Bring your spouse, friends, family along with you on your journey!
What?
The program includes:
- 3 one-on-one naturopathic visits to assess your health concerns, establish your goals, and track your progress.
- 5 practical and interactive group coaching and support sessions covering all aspects of detoxification (nutrition, elimination organs, stress management, exercise, safe skin care, and lots more)
- Detoxification diet program emphasizing digestive and liver support
- Personalized detox protocol of remedies chosen specifically to address your needs
The regular price for this program would be over $730 for new patients and over $650 for existing patients.
I am offering this package for $477+HST for new patients and $397+HST for existing patients, a savings of over $250! In addition, the FIRST 5 PEOPLE to register at each practice location will receive an additional $50 off their package!
Package is to be pre-paid on the first visit and naturopathic visits are eligible for extended health benefits coverage (check with your insurance provider for coverage details) and individual receipts will be provided after each visit.
This is an amazing price for a complete, personalized, supported, and supervised detox program!
When and Where?
I’m running the program at both my convenient practice locations! Register by Monday, March 25th and have your first visit in the package before Saturday, April 6th. Call the clinic location best for you:
Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health
73 Warren Road, Suite 102
Phone: 416-792-4400
Group sessions will run Tuesdays 7 to 7:45pm, April 9th through May 7th held at Mahaya Forest Hill Integrative Health
Kew Beach Natural Health Clinic
2010 Queen St. East, 2nd floor
Phone: 416-690-6168
Group sessions Thursdays 7 to 7:45pm, April 11th through May 9th held at Kew Beach Natural Health Clinic
Register by Monday, March 25th, 2013, spots are limited!
My favourite things in personal care 2012
02/Feb/12 04:18 PM
by Kate Whimster, BCom, MIFHI, ND
For several years I’ve considered writing a “favourite things” blog (a la Oprah’s favourite things). These are all things I use myself (as evidenced by the photos of this stuff in my house!) and LOVE (not just like). This is NOT an endorsement or advertisement and I’m not getting paid by anyone to put a product in this blog.
Dr. Hauschka lip care stick
This is the “favourite thing” that inspired this whole blog! Dr. Hauschka’s Lip Care Stick is by far the most expensive lip balm I’ve ever bought but it is well worth it! From the first time a co-worker at Peaches and Green recommended it, I have not looked back. It is so superior to every other lip balm I’ve tried that I have (at time of writing) 6 tubes of it in my home. These tubes are in various stages of use, from brand new to “digging out the last little bit” stage:
Meditation as Medicine book
Meditation as Medicine by Dharma Singh Khalsa is a book I recommend to anyone interested in starting a meditation practice as well as anyone who wants to learn more about specific meditations for different healthy concerns. The author is an anesthesiologist who shares many different meditations for beginners and lists meditation treatments for a lot of medical concerns complete with diagrams and great step-by-step instruction.
David’s Tea
Last fall I did a brief stint working part-time at David’s Tea and while I am too busy to continue there, I do LOVE their products! Tea can be so fun and healthy, so why not enjoy this treat rather than high-calorie coffee drinks or junk food? My top 3 favourite teas are Vanilla Oolong, Secret Weapon (a white tea), and Jessie’s Tea (caffeine-free rooibos tea). I also highly recommend the perfect mug (I have a glass one at work and a ceramic one at home) - it truly is perfect for making a wonderful cup of tea!
Urban Spa silk eye pillow
I like to sleep in complete darkness, and by complete I mean no light through the window or from electronics (which is why my phone is in another room and I cover my clock). To help achieve this total darkness, I NEED my Urban Spa Silk Eye Pillow! I have tried many eye masks over the years, but I always come back to this one because it is so wonderful. It blocks light really well, it is soft on my face, it is adjustable (which is important as the elastic stretches out over time), and it smells of soothing lavender!
Derma E microdermabrasion scrub
I have very fair, delicate skin and I find that any breakout leaves pigment and too much sun exposure leaves sun spots. One of the products I find really helpful is Derma E Microdermabrasion Scrub. This scrub is fine and gentle and I find it helps get rid of rough skin and dark spots. I use it about once per week followed by either my Green tea face mask or Egg yolk face mask.
Pure and Natural shampoo and conditioner
We used to carry some Pure and Natural products at Peaches and Green and when I started using the Daily Moisturizing Shampoo and Daily Light Conditioner, I got several comments (sometimes for complete strangers, such as in the gym!) that my hair was looking really shiny and healthy! I really love these two products and now order them from Carina Organics in the large bottles!
For several years I’ve considered writing a “favourite things” blog (a la Oprah’s favourite things). These are all things I use myself (as evidenced by the photos of this stuff in my house!) and LOVE (not just like). This is NOT an endorsement or advertisement and I’m not getting paid by anyone to put a product in this blog.
This is the “favourite thing” that inspired this whole blog! Dr. Hauschka’s Lip Care Stick is by far the most expensive lip balm I’ve ever bought but it is well worth it! From the first time a co-worker at Peaches and Green recommended it, I have not looked back. It is so superior to every other lip balm I’ve tried that I have (at time of writing) 6 tubes of it in my home. These tubes are in various stages of use, from brand new to “digging out the last little bit” stage:
Meditation as Medicine book
Meditation as Medicine by Dharma Singh Khalsa is a book I recommend to anyone interested in starting a meditation practice as well as anyone who wants to learn more about specific meditations for different healthy concerns. The author is an anesthesiologist who shares many different meditations for beginners and lists meditation treatments for a lot of medical concerns complete with diagrams and great step-by-step instruction.
David’s Tea
Last fall I did a brief stint working part-time at David’s Tea and while I am too busy to continue there, I do LOVE their products! Tea can be so fun and healthy, so why not enjoy this treat rather than high-calorie coffee drinks or junk food? My top 3 favourite teas are Vanilla Oolong, Secret Weapon (a white tea), and Jessie’s Tea (caffeine-free rooibos tea). I also highly recommend the perfect mug (I have a glass one at work and a ceramic one at home) - it truly is perfect for making a wonderful cup of tea!
Urban Spa silk eye pillow
I like to sleep in complete darkness, and by complete I mean no light through the window or from electronics (which is why my phone is in another room and I cover my clock). To help achieve this total darkness, I NEED my Urban Spa Silk Eye Pillow! I have tried many eye masks over the years, but I always come back to this one because it is so wonderful. It blocks light really well, it is soft on my face, it is adjustable (which is important as the elastic stretches out over time), and it smells of soothing lavender!
Derma E microdermabrasion scrub
I have very fair, delicate skin and I find that any breakout leaves pigment and too much sun exposure leaves sun spots. One of the products I find really helpful is Derma E Microdermabrasion Scrub. This scrub is fine and gentle and I find it helps get rid of rough skin and dark spots. I use it about once per week followed by either my Green tea face mask or Egg yolk face mask.
Pure and Natural shampoo and conditioner
We used to carry some Pure and Natural products at Peaches and Green and when I started using the Daily Moisturizing Shampoo and Daily Light Conditioner, I got several comments (sometimes for complete strangers, such as in the gym!) that my hair was looking really shiny and healthy! I really love these two products and now order them from Carina Organics in the large bottles!
Dry skin body brushing
17/Oct/11 10:37 AM
by Kate Whimster, BCom, MIFHI, ND
Body brushing is the practice of using a natural bristle brush (available at your local health food store) to brush the skin all over the body before bathing.
First, a few cautions. Do not brush over irritated or broken skin. Brush lightly, do not use too much pressure and be extra gentle over sensitive areas, such as the face. You may choose to use a smaller, softer brush for the face. Finally, always brush toward the trunk (more specifically the chest and heart).
Benefits:
How to:
Body brushing is the practice of using a natural bristle brush (available at your local health food store) to brush the skin all over the body before bathing.
First, a few cautions. Do not brush over irritated or broken skin. Brush lightly, do not use too much pressure and be extra gentle over sensitive areas, such as the face. You may choose to use a smaller, softer brush for the face. Finally, always brush toward the trunk (more specifically the chest and heart).
Benefits:
- Energizing at the start of the day
- Slough off dead skin cells, increasing rate of skin turnover
- Stimulate superficial lymphatic flow
- Increase circulation to the skin, speeding healing and regeneration
- Takes only 5-10 minutes per day
- Low cost
How to:
- Hands: Starting with your palm, do 3-4 strokes from fingertips towards the wrist. Turn the hand over and do the same to the back of the hand.
- Arm: Using quick strokes, work your way from wrist to shoulder. Brush extra circles on the elbows and backs of the arms (where skin tends to sag). Wherever you do circles, finish with 4 straight strokes towards the trunk.
- Torso: Raise your arms and do 4 strokes down through the armpits and then 4 strokes across the armpits towards the chest. This helps to clear lymph nodes in the underarms.
- Repeat steps 1-3 beginning with the opposite hand.
- Foot: Starting with one foot, brush the bottom of the toes and foot towards the back of the heel and start up the leg. Brush the top of the foot towards the leg.
- Leg: Brush up the leg and over through the knee. Brush extra circles on the knees (where many people have dry skin) and thighs (where cellulite tends to appear). Wherever you do circles, finish with 4 straight strokes towards the trunk. Brush the thighs, front and back, up toward the trunk. Brush the buttocks upwards towards the torso.
- Repeat steps 5 and 6 beginning with the opposite foot.
- Torso: Finally brush the torso upwards and towards the middle both front and back. Go around the breasts and over them towards the neck.
- Face: Brush lightly over the face in small circles, finishing with longer strokes across the forhead, upwards over the cheekbones, and across the chin.
- Neck: Brush down the neck towards the torso front and back.
- Brush down the neck towards the torso.
- Hair: Finish by brushing hair with a hairbrush, using the bristles on the brush to give your scalp a gentle massage.
Essential oils fight aging
01/Aug/11 05:50 PM
by Kate Whimster, BCom, MIFHI, ND
I’ve been working with essential oils since I was in high school and I enjoy making my own formulas that have evolved over the years. This mixture is designed to reduce and prevent fine lines on the face.
Anti-aging treatment
Caution:
Avoid applying this mixture very close to your eyes, to avoid irritation.
Directions:
Combine the following ingredients in a 10mL roller bottle:
40 drops carrot seed essential oil
20 drops sandalwood essential oil
10 drops vitamin A oil (the only one I know of is Genestra Vitamin A Liquid)
1 drop ylang ylang essential oil
Then, fill the rest of the bottle with a carrier oil, either rosehip seed oil, jojoba oil, or vitamin E oil.
Apply mixture to fines lines nightly. Use roller bottle to massage into forehead, under eyes, and to any other areas.
I’ve been working with essential oils since I was in high school and I enjoy making my own formulas that have evolved over the years. This mixture is designed to reduce and prevent fine lines on the face.
Anti-aging treatment
Caution:
Avoid applying this mixture very close to your eyes, to avoid irritation.
Directions:
Combine the following ingredients in a 10mL roller bottle:
40 drops carrot seed essential oil
20 drops sandalwood essential oil
10 drops vitamin A oil (the only one I know of is Genestra Vitamin A Liquid)
1 drop ylang ylang essential oil
Then, fill the rest of the bottle with a carrier oil, either rosehip seed oil, jojoba oil, or vitamin E oil.
Apply mixture to fines lines nightly. Use roller bottle to massage into forehead, under eyes, and to any other areas.
Egg yolk mask
18/May/11 11:00 AM
by Kate Whimster, BCom, MIFHI, ND
This is one of the home remedies I discussed during my appearance on Wylde on Health June 17, 2011. Video is up online here (look for June 17th, segment 2).
This is a simple, effective home remedy for acne. I first heard about this mask from a friend when I was a teenager with acne. I tried it then and found it worked really well! Egg yolks contain vitamins A and E, which are key nutrients for treating acne and scarring. Egg yolks also contain a variety of other vitamins and nutrients; most of the nutrients in an egg are found in the yolk! Egg yolks are also emollient, meaning that they help soften and moisturize skin.
I recommend that patients do the mask every night for about a month, and then once per week for maintenance.
Egg yolk face mask
Ingredients:
1 egg yolk
Directions:
Notes:
This is one of the home remedies I discussed during my appearance on Wylde on Health June 17, 2011. Video is up online here (look for June 17th, segment 2).
This is a simple, effective home remedy for acne. I first heard about this mask from a friend when I was a teenager with acne. I tried it then and found it worked really well! Egg yolks contain vitamins A and E, which are key nutrients for treating acne and scarring. Egg yolks also contain a variety of other vitamins and nutrients; most of the nutrients in an egg are found in the yolk! Egg yolks are also emollient, meaning that they help soften and moisturize skin.
I recommend that patients do the mask every night for about a month, and then once per week for maintenance.
Egg yolk face mask
Ingredients:
1 egg yolk
Directions:
- Separate one egg and stir up the yolk in a small cup or mug.
- Wash face as usual and pat dry.
- Apply egg yolk all over face in a uniform layer.
- Once yolk has dried, rinse off with lukewarm water.
Notes:
- One egg yolk will usually last for 2-3 masks, so keep the extra yolk in the fridge for the next day.
- Don’t use warm/hot water to rinse off the yolk - you will cook it!
Essential oils for acne
10/Apr/11 09:14 AM
by Kate Whimster, BCom, MIFHI, ND
I’ve been working with essential oils since I was in high school and I enjoy making my own formulas that have evolved over the years. This mixture is designed to gently combat and heal acne blemishes.
Acne spot treatment
Caution:
Bergamot essential oil can cause skin to become more sensitive to the sun (photosensitive). Avoid use before sun exposure.
Directions:
Combine the following ingredients in a 10mL roller bottle:
15 drops bergamot essential oil
15 drops geranium essential oil
15 drops lavender essential oil
15 drops tea tree essential oil
Then, fill the rest of the bottle with a carrier oil of your choice, such as jojoba, grapeseed, almond, or calendula.
Apply mixture to blemishes nightly as needed.
I’ve been working with essential oils since I was in high school and I enjoy making my own formulas that have evolved over the years. This mixture is designed to gently combat and heal acne blemishes.
Acne spot treatment
Caution:
Bergamot essential oil can cause skin to become more sensitive to the sun (photosensitive). Avoid use before sun exposure.
Directions:
Combine the following ingredients in a 10mL roller bottle:
15 drops bergamot essential oil
15 drops geranium essential oil
15 drops lavender essential oil
15 drops tea tree essential oil
Then, fill the rest of the bottle with a carrier oil of your choice, such as jojoba, grapeseed, almond, or calendula.
Apply mixture to blemishes nightly as needed.
Strengthening hair treatment
17/Feb/11 01:37 PM
by Kate Whimster, BCom, MIFHI, ND
You may be familiar with Henna, aka Lawsonia inermis, as a herbal hair colour which also coats your hair to make it thicker, shinier, and stronger. Cassia obovata is a (nearly) colourless version of the same thing, so it’s a great treatment for your hair if you don’t want to colour with henna. I do this treatment every 4-6 weeks to keep my hair healthy and strong, especially since I have fine hair that can break easily.
I order my Cassia from Henna Sooq. They have tons of awesome info on their site, like directions and instructional videos for mixing and applying! They will also give you free samples of all kinds of stuff to try.
Cassia hair treatment
Caution:
Cassia can alter the colour of white, grey, or blond hair because it does have a golden colour. Also, I think it is not advised to use Henna or Cassia on coloured hair as the part of the hair that is coloured my react differently from the uncoloured part (roots). Do some more searching if you want to know more about this.
Additional ingredients:
Add 3-5 drops of an essential oil of your choice to your mixture. This is for scent primarily, as I find the smell of the Cassia a little “grassy” but you can also use essential oils as skin/hair treatment. Some suggestions:
Directions:
The first time I did this treatment, I made a mess! But now I’ve got it down to a much more reasonable process...
1. Wash your hair and towel dry, then put on an old t-shirt and shorts or pants.
2. Make holes in a garbage bag for your head and arms and put the garbage bag on over your clothes.
3. Get into the tub and apply mixture to your hair in sections, starting at the nape of your neck. I twist my hair up in a clip on top of my head and take out section working from back to front.
4. I use my hands to coat the section of hair I’m working on, then I comb through with a wide-toothed comb, then I apply a bit more paste before moving on.
5. Once your whole head is covered, twist your hair on top of your head.
6. Once you’re done, you will inevitably have paste on your face, in your ears, and in the tub. Use an old washcloth to wipe the paste off your face, ears, and hands and also wash the paste off the tub as it can stain on white (although this comes out with cleaning, so no worries).
7. Remove the garbage bag from yourself and toss it in the garbage.
8. Unroll a long strip of plastic wrap and twist into a kind of “rope” then loop this around the nape of your neck and up over your ears to tie at your forehead so it is acting as a kind of barrier all around your hairline. Wrap more plastic wrap around your head on top of this to cover all your hair.
9. Now just chill out for a while until your treatment is done!
You may be familiar with Henna, aka Lawsonia inermis, as a herbal hair colour which also coats your hair to make it thicker, shinier, and stronger. Cassia obovata is a (nearly) colourless version of the same thing, so it’s a great treatment for your hair if you don’t want to colour with henna. I do this treatment every 4-6 weeks to keep my hair healthy and strong, especially since I have fine hair that can break easily.
I order my Cassia from Henna Sooq. They have tons of awesome info on their site, like directions and instructional videos for mixing and applying! They will also give you free samples of all kinds of stuff to try.
Cassia hair treatment
Caution:
Cassia can alter the colour of white, grey, or blond hair because it does have a golden colour. Also, I think it is not advised to use Henna or Cassia on coloured hair as the part of the hair that is coloured my react differently from the uncoloured part (roots). Do some more searching if you want to know more about this.
Additional ingredients:
Add 3-5 drops of an essential oil of your choice to your mixture. This is for scent primarily, as I find the smell of the Cassia a little “grassy” but you can also use essential oils as skin/hair treatment. Some suggestions:
- Rosemary as a scalp treatment for dandruff and to increase circulation
- Lavender as an overall skin healing oil (for dermatitis, itching, oily skin, and nearly any other skin issues)
- Ylang ylang because it smells great (and is apparently an aphrodisiac!)
Directions:
The first time I did this treatment, I made a mess! But now I’ve got it down to a much more reasonable process...
1. Wash your hair and towel dry, then put on an old t-shirt and shorts or pants.
2. Make holes in a garbage bag for your head and arms and put the garbage bag on over your clothes.
3. Get into the tub and apply mixture to your hair in sections, starting at the nape of your neck. I twist my hair up in a clip on top of my head and take out section working from back to front.
4. I use my hands to coat the section of hair I’m working on, then I comb through with a wide-toothed comb, then I apply a bit more paste before moving on.
5. Once your whole head is covered, twist your hair on top of your head.
6. Once you’re done, you will inevitably have paste on your face, in your ears, and in the tub. Use an old washcloth to wipe the paste off your face, ears, and hands and also wash the paste off the tub as it can stain on white (although this comes out with cleaning, so no worries).
7. Remove the garbage bag from yourself and toss it in the garbage.
8. Unroll a long strip of plastic wrap and twist into a kind of “rope” then loop this around the nape of your neck and up over your ears to tie at your forehead so it is acting as a kind of barrier all around your hairline. Wrap more plastic wrap around your head on top of this to cover all your hair.
9. Now just chill out for a while until your treatment is done!
Anti-aging green tea mask
13/Dec/10 02:05 PM
by Kate Whimster, BCom, MIFHI, ND
I make myself a very basic face mask using green tea powder because green tea is high in polyphenols, a type of antioxidant that when applied topically can be anti-inflammatory, protect against skin cancer, and reduce or prevent signs of aging. It is a great healing treatment for all kinds of skin types and issues.
Green tea face mask
Ingredients:
1/2 tsp green tea powder (I use Do Matcha because that’s the only one I’ve found so far, but you can use any kind)
Water or carrier oil
Directions:
1. Place green tea powder in very small bowl and mix to a paste with either water or oil.
2. Add essential oils if desired.
3. Apply to clean, dry skin after washing and exfoliating.
4. Leave on for 10-15 minutes, then gently rinse off.
I make myself a very basic face mask using green tea powder because green tea is high in polyphenols, a type of antioxidant that when applied topically can be anti-inflammatory, protect against skin cancer, and reduce or prevent signs of aging. It is a great healing treatment for all kinds of skin types and issues.
Green tea face mask
Ingredients:
1/2 tsp green tea powder (I use Do Matcha because that’s the only one I’ve found so far, but you can use any kind)
Water or carrier oil
- For oiler skin, you can use water, in which case this mask dries on your face like a clay mask.
- For dryer skin, use a carrier oil of your choice. I personally really like rosehip oil as it is anti-inflammatory and known for anti-aging. The type of oil can be varied based on what you prefer - check out more info on different carrier oils here.
- You can choose oils that address specific skin issues - check out more info here.
Directions:
1. Place green tea powder in very small bowl and mix to a paste with either water or oil.
2. Add essential oils if desired.
3. Apply to clean, dry skin after washing and exfoliating.
4. Leave on for 10-15 minutes, then gently rinse off.
Varicose veins article
05/Nov/10 09:24 PM
by Kate Whimster, BCom, MIFHI, ND
This week I’m quoted in a Now Magazine column about varicose veins. Check it out!
This week I’m quoted in a Now Magazine column about varicose veins. Check it out!
The Story of Cosmetics
17/Aug/10 10:49 PM
A few weeks ago I shared The Story of Stuff and now there is a new video called The Story of Cosmetics. The makers of these videos have even more at their website, like The Story of Bottled Water and The Story of Electronics (coming soon).
A lot of people wonder why it matters so much what we put on our bodies or what chemicals are in the things we use everyday... My take on it is, why expose myself to harmful stuff if I don’t have to? There are lots of options for cleaning products, cosmetics, personal care, water bottles, food containers, fragrances, etc that are non-toxic and work great, so why not avoid what toxins you can? And why support companies that aren’t looking out for your health? There is so much in life we can’t control, I think we should do the best with what we can.
If you haven’t checked it out yet, the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database is a great resource!
A lot of people wonder why it matters so much what we put on our bodies or what chemicals are in the things we use everyday... My take on it is, why expose myself to harmful stuff if I don’t have to? There are lots of options for cleaning products, cosmetics, personal care, water bottles, food containers, fragrances, etc that are non-toxic and work great, so why not avoid what toxins you can? And why support companies that aren’t looking out for your health? There is so much in life we can’t control, I think we should do the best with what we can.
If you haven’t checked it out yet, the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database is a great resource!
How long does it take to change?
30/Mar/09 12:45 PM
by Kate Whimster, BCom, MIFHI, ND
This blog was originally published on August 13, 2006 here.
I used to judge the way I look and the way other people look somewhat harshly. Maybe that is part of being a teenager or being female or reading demented fashion magazines… But I no longer look at people and think about whether they are “good looking” or not. The people that I love are gorgeous to me; the people I dislike can be repulsive. But most people are neutral because I don’t know them. Beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder.
I work in a health food store and I attend naturopathic school. So, as one might expect, I am surrounded by people who are in better physical shape and healthier looking than the average population. Yet, these people still fall victim to the body image problems that are far too common in society. Within my class alone, it seems like everyone wants to lose weight, even if it is “just 5 pounds”. At work it is even worse – our customers (mostly women) are always looking for that next “magic” weight loss supplement, but most of them are not overweight! Maybe it’s because I am a triple Taurus (Sun, moon, mercury) and have many other planets in earth signs (more on astrology in another blog!), but I just think that most people aren’t patient enough with themselves, particularly when it comes to health.
I have found (after 4+ years of following the Blood Type Diet) that I have not lost much weight (didn’t need to), but I have gained more muscle (which is why I weigh nearly the same, but look slimmer) and that the distribution of weight on my body has changed dramatically. I used to hate my legs and think my arms were too skinny, but now I am content with how I look. I feel light, strong, and energetic. There are limits to how much you can change your body shape, but I do believe (and I think I am walking proof) that you CAN change it quite a lot. But, it takes years of consistently eating right, exercising well, getting enough sleep, and dealing with stress healthily. In the short-term, your cells are the same cells you made when you were unhealthy. Or they are cells that don’t regenerate at all, so their health depends on your lifetime of health choices.
Red blood cells have a life cycle of 120 days, while bone (on the other end of the spectrum) takes 7 years to regenerate. Other cells (skin, liver, pancreas, muscle, etc) are in between. Some cells regenerate nicely (epidermis, mucus membranes, liver, fibrous connective tissues, bone), some don’t (kidney, skeletal muscle, cardiac tissue, nervous tissue).
Red blood cells carry oxygen to tissues and remove carbon dioxide. If you start exercising, you may notice improvement quickly, but imagine the results you might achieve after replacing ALL your red blood cells (120 days). Imagine how long you have to wait to see improvement in muscle function as muscle cells receive oxygen more efficiently and can therefore produce energy more efficiently. Imagine how long you have to wait to see improvement once all the cells of your body receive more oxygen more efficiently and regenerate themselves. And that is just from improved oxygenation. Imagine the changes possible for digestion and immune function once intestinal lining cells are healthier and you can break down and absorb everything you eat or drink better…
I’ve heard that 60% of how you look depends on your diet and that 40% depends on physical activity. Well, we already know that’s not quite right because there are other factors, such as sleep, stress, environmental toxins, etc that affect this. But even so, I think diet is much more important than 60%. We literally ARE what we EAT. Our bodies, all of the cells, are made from the materials that we ingest. For me, the best results did not appear even within the first YEAR of lifestyle change (much less overnight). I truly believe it takes years of consistently embracing a healthy lifestyle (rather than spurts of extreme compliance) to work “miracles”.
This blog was originally published on August 13, 2006 here.
I used to judge the way I look and the way other people look somewhat harshly. Maybe that is part of being a teenager or being female or reading demented fashion magazines… But I no longer look at people and think about whether they are “good looking” or not. The people that I love are gorgeous to me; the people I dislike can be repulsive. But most people are neutral because I don’t know them. Beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder.
I work in a health food store and I attend naturopathic school. So, as one might expect, I am surrounded by people who are in better physical shape and healthier looking than the average population. Yet, these people still fall victim to the body image problems that are far too common in society. Within my class alone, it seems like everyone wants to lose weight, even if it is “just 5 pounds”. At work it is even worse – our customers (mostly women) are always looking for that next “magic” weight loss supplement, but most of them are not overweight! Maybe it’s because I am a triple Taurus (Sun, moon, mercury) and have many other planets in earth signs (more on astrology in another blog!), but I just think that most people aren’t patient enough with themselves, particularly when it comes to health.
I have found (after 4+ years of following the Blood Type Diet) that I have not lost much weight (didn’t need to), but I have gained more muscle (which is why I weigh nearly the same, but look slimmer) and that the distribution of weight on my body has changed dramatically. I used to hate my legs and think my arms were too skinny, but now I am content with how I look. I feel light, strong, and energetic. There are limits to how much you can change your body shape, but I do believe (and I think I am walking proof) that you CAN change it quite a lot. But, it takes years of consistently eating right, exercising well, getting enough sleep, and dealing with stress healthily. In the short-term, your cells are the same cells you made when you were unhealthy. Or they are cells that don’t regenerate at all, so their health depends on your lifetime of health choices.
Red blood cells have a life cycle of 120 days, while bone (on the other end of the spectrum) takes 7 years to regenerate. Other cells (skin, liver, pancreas, muscle, etc) are in between. Some cells regenerate nicely (epidermis, mucus membranes, liver, fibrous connective tissues, bone), some don’t (kidney, skeletal muscle, cardiac tissue, nervous tissue).
Red blood cells carry oxygen to tissues and remove carbon dioxide. If you start exercising, you may notice improvement quickly, but imagine the results you might achieve after replacing ALL your red blood cells (120 days). Imagine how long you have to wait to see improvement in muscle function as muscle cells receive oxygen more efficiently and can therefore produce energy more efficiently. Imagine how long you have to wait to see improvement once all the cells of your body receive more oxygen more efficiently and regenerate themselves. And that is just from improved oxygenation. Imagine the changes possible for digestion and immune function once intestinal lining cells are healthier and you can break down and absorb everything you eat or drink better…
I’ve heard that 60% of how you look depends on your diet and that 40% depends on physical activity. Well, we already know that’s not quite right because there are other factors, such as sleep, stress, environmental toxins, etc that affect this. But even so, I think diet is much more important than 60%. We literally ARE what we EAT. Our bodies, all of the cells, are made from the materials that we ingest. For me, the best results did not appear even within the first YEAR of lifestyle change (much less overnight). I truly believe it takes years of consistently embracing a healthy lifestyle (rather than spurts of extreme compliance) to work “miracles”.