Sharks: Why They're Not Health Products

Alternatives to Shark Oil

Shark liver oil has been used for centuries by fishermen as a general tonic and folk remedy. Shark oils do contain many of the beneficial compounds that are also found in cold water fish, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A and D, which are important for optimal immune function. However, I do not consider shark oils to be appropriate substances for use in a health context.  As a naturopathic doctor I have never, and never will, recommend the intake of shark products to any of my patients. The risks are simply too great.

Why take such a stand on the shark-as-medicine issue? The naturopathic doctor's oath includes to "First, do no harm" and to "preserve the health of our planet for ourselves and future generations".  This means that the medicines I prescribe must be ecologically friendly.  Many of the world's sharks have come under survival pressures due to human activities - from intense demand for their fins for shark fin soup, or their cartilage for the mythological anti-cancer effects, to tragic bycatch losses whereby sharks are unintentionally caught in nets set for other species like tuna (a whole other issue), to spills and disasters, shark populations are particularly vulnerable to human follies because their slow rates of growth and reproduction and predator status makes them fewer in numbers relative to the "prey" species. Sharks are needed as predators to keep prey species healthy. Incidentally, dozens of "prey" species are also eaten by humans, so in helping sharks we would be helping ourselves maintain access to sustainable, healthy fish stocks (J. Sabau, Wake Shark & Ocean Educator 2009). A World Fishing & Aquaculture article published today noted that one third of Europe's shark species are currently considered threatened and the European Parliament has called for stronger policies against shark fin-removal on board ships.

Medicinal Properties of Shark Products Available From Alternative, Less Toxic Sources

Ideals of a True Physician

As physicians, we are constantly learning - it's one of the things I love most about being a naturopathic doctor! The practice of naturopathic medicine allows us to utilize the best of scientific medicine and diagnostics, while delivering health care according to fundamental principles and philosophies of care that help us guide our patients to true health and healing. We research and seek instruction and inspiration from other physicians who have established precedents of excellence in the practice of effective, ethical, principle-bound medicine - the kind of health care that empowers patients and changes lives with true healing. Renowned naturopathic physician and homeopath Dr. André Saine, ND, FCAH, is one of these great leaders. Through his practice and teaching work at the Canadian Academy of Homeopathy in Montréal and internationally, Dr. Saine has inspired generations of naturopathic and allopathic physicians to become better doctors and facilitators of healing. Recently, a colleague and fellow homeopathy-phile (thanks, Mel!) pointed out André's article, "If it's worth doing, it's worth doing well: keys for becoming a successful physician", which captured my attention this morning. Presented as a lecture to the graduating class at National College of Naturopathic Medicine, Portland, 2009, the article explores the fundamental characteristics of a successful physician - knowing the self, human nature, and Nature, and embodying the philosophy and principles that should abide by each doctor in daily practice. This is captivating and inspirational reading!!! for doctors and patients alike, and leaves me to critically appraise how I can foster my own life and naturopathic practice to daily reflect these immutable ideals of care.

Here is a brief excerpt:

"What are the more important predispositions necessary for the practice of medicine? I would suggest the following qualities and dispositions and encourage their cultivation:

Benevolence
Intelligence
Sound health
Balanced personality
Curiosity
Humility
Patience
Alertness
Objectivity
Resourcefulness
Being a good communicator
Equanimity
Resilience
Optimism
Intuition
Sound judgment
Courage
Self-confidence
Honesty
Wisdom

"Benevolence is the disposition to be kind and good to others. In Buddhism, it is called maitri, which is one of the four elements of true love and is translated as loving-kindness.

"Benevolence is one of two basic ingredients for becoming a true physician, knowledge being the other. Benevolence or love is the inspiration and knowledge is the guide. With the love to help your fellow human beings you will be eager to learn and acquire the necessary knowledge to become a true physician. However, benevolence, without that knowledge or ability to do good, may actually make others suffer. To a 24 year-old enquiring medical student, Hahnemann wrote, 'I pray you to continue to be a right, genuine, good man, as it is impossible without virtue to be a true physician, a godlike helper of his fellow creatures in their distress.' It seemed that Hahnemann's prayer was greatly fulfilled, as the young student was Constantine Hering....

"...Assuming that you fulfill the necessary profile, the next requirement is to learn about human nature....

- Dr. André Saine, ND, FCAH, The Naturopathic Gathering, NCNM, 2009; available at: http://www.homeopathy.ca/articles_det22.shtml

View the complete article and others on The Canadian Academy of Homeopathy web site, www.homeopathy.ca

Happy learning!!

Naturopathic Flu Prevention Tips

It's flu season and the big question these days is:

Q. How can I avoid coming down with the flu this year?

Answer: A healthy immune system is your best defense against the flu. Influenza and viruses that cause flu-like illness are most active from fall through spring. During these months, exposure to potentially infective viruses is inevitable, so it is especially important to ensure your immune system is healthy and equipped with the necessary resources to prevent infections from developing. Here are some basic preventive measures to practice throughout the “flu season”.

Top 10 Tips for Preventing Flu and Flu-Like Illness:

1. Wash your hands – frequently with regular soap and warm water for at least 30 seconds. Be sure to scrub the webs between fingers and under the fingernails. Dry your hands thoroughly with a clean towel. Key handwashing times are before leaving work or school and first thing when you arrive home; before eating; before touching your mouth, eyes, nose or face; after using the washroom; after sneezing, touching your face, coughing, shaking hands, handling doorknobs or computer keyboards, etc.

2. Nourishment is fundamental – during months when viruses abound in the environment, a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, adequate proteins, essential fatty acids and fibre is the absolute foundation for health. Cooking warm soups and stews makes the nutrients most digestible. Remember that your entire body, including the cells, antibodies and biochemical messengers of your immune system, are literally made of the molecules you provide your body through the food you eat! Avoid processed foods, refined sugars, and any foods that your body may be sensitive to. Ask your N.D. about how to implement specific foods and herbs for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties throughout the flu season.

3. Avoid exposure – as much as possible avoid contact with people who are ill or symptomatic, e.g. coughing, sneezing, congested, feverish, etc., especially crowded public places with dry, stale air. Also, get out of the habit of touching your face, mouth, eyes and nose, as this gives potentially infective microorganisms the chance to move from your hands to those warm, moist mucus membranes where they love to take up residence. If you must touch anywhere on your face, wash your hands first (see #1).

4. Nasal and sinus lavage – using a neti pot containing a pinch of sea salt and baking soda, a saline spray or a steam inhalation, gently rinse bacteria, viruses and fungi from the mucous membranes to prevent them from setting up infective colonies. Sinus lavage also removes irritants and allergens from the mucous membranes.

5. Keep hydrated – to function correctly, our cells (including our immune cells) need to be plump like grapes, not wrinkled like raisins. Sip, sip, sip throughout the day on water (warm or room temperature) and try dilute herbal teas like ginger or licorice, homemade chicken broth, or Change-of-Season Soup. A good gauge of being well-hydrated: by mid-day your urine is pale to colorless and there’s no dry or thirsty sensation in your mouth or throat. Sipping on fluids flushes potentially infective microorganisms into a pool of anti-microbial hydrochloric acid found in the stomach.

6. Keep warm and moist! - the infection-resisting work of our mucus membranes depends on their being moist. Increase the humidity of indoor heated-air environments with a warm or cool humidifier at work and home, especially throughout sleep. Avoid getting chilled, which increases vulnerability to infection, by dressing for the weather with breathable layers; keep your feet warm and dry; and avoid exposure to cold drafts.

7. Take your probiotics – beneficial bacteria that promote the protective capacity of the mucus membranes and immune system are killed off when exposed to antibiotics (including some natural antimicrobials like oil of oregano), daily stress and dietary influences. If you’re not sure which probiotics to take, contact your ND.

8. Sleep and rest well – the immune system depends on adequate sleep and rest to function properly and to promote healing. If you feel you are fighting an infection, set activities aside for now, and try to get to bed early.

9. Move the lymph – regular, moderate exercise has been proven to improve immunity. Muscle contraction and good circulation move the lymph fluid through the lymphatic vessels, allowing the immune system to function. Also try daily dry skin brushing from the extremities toward the core; daily abdominal massage with castor oil; and alternating hot and cold showers, (always finishing with cold) to improve lymphatic drainage over time.

10. Reduce stress – the physiological effects of stress decrease the body’s capacity to resist infections. Take the time for recreation, for getting into nature, for laughter, hugs and other pleasurable activities.

Emphasize Individualed Care

In addition to these important daily basics, Naturopathic Medicine offers an outstanding range of effective prevention and treatment strategies for decreasing the risk, severity and duration of flu and flu-like illnesses – including botanical medicine, hydrotherapy, homeopathy, acupuncture and clinical nutrition - all individualized to your unique needs and state of health. For your individualized flu prevention and care program, or in the event that you do become ill, contact your Naturopathic Doctor (N.D.) or other primary health care provider.

Helpful links:

Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors: Cold and Flu (2010)

College of Family Physicians of Canada: Flu and Colds -Tips on prevention and feeling better

Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND): Position Paper on Flu Vaccines (2004).

Elizabeth J. Cherevaty BScH, ND
Meridian Wellness Centre
329 Woolwich Street, Guelph ON N1H 3W4
Tel: (519)822-7075

Dr. Cherevaty ND provides primary, integrative health care for children and families at the Meridian Wellness Centre, downtown Guelph.

Principles of Naturopathic Medicine

The philosophy guiding the practice of naturopathic medicine is reflected in these six principles:

• First, to do no harm, by using methods and medicines that minimize the risk of harmful side effects.
• To treat the causes of disease, by identifying and removing the underlying causes of illness, rather than suppressing symptoms.
• To teach the principles of healthy living and preventative medicine, by sharing knowledge with patients and encouraging individual responsibility for health.
• To heal the whole person through individualized treatment, by understanding the unique physical, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental and social factors that contribute to illness, and customizing treatment protocols to the patient.
• To emphasize prevention, by partnering with the patient to assess risk factors and recommend appropriate naturopathic interventions to maintain health and prevent illness.
• To support the healing power of the body, by recognizing and removing obstacles to the body's inherent self-healing process.

Welcome!

Thank you for visiting! As a Naturopathic Doctor (ND), I feel deeply privileged to be able to provide gentle, effective, individualized health care and education that I hope will empower others to take the leadership role in their own health and healing.

Naturopathic Doctors are regulated, primary health care providers in Ontario. Experts in integrative medicine, Naturopathic Doctors are trained to diagnose, treat and manage the same kinds of conditions that conventionally-trained family doctors would, while practicing according to the principles of naturopathic medicine; using the gentlest and safest treatments available; and spending more time with patient visits to ensure they are understanding the whole person and addressing the underlying causes of illness.
Having experienced naturopathic health care as a patient since I was 6 years old (that's quite a few years now), I realized at a young age that my life's calling would be to become an ND and help others find true health and healing through naturopathic medicine. I am inspired to be a part of this profession that is truly making a difference in people's lives by providing safe, effective and sustainable health care solutions.
I hope this space will provide you with something of value to your own journey of health.