BT Vancouver – Medicine Cabinet Makeover

via Breakfast Television

Biohacks, Remedies, TV & Episodes

Medicine Cabinet Makeover: Time try the power of natural medicine!
Here are my switch outs for the top 5 most commonly used (and abused) OTC medications in your medicine cabinet.
Pain Killers
I’m quite worried about folks abusing acetaminophen and NSAIDS (non steroidal anti-inflammatories like Advil)
Recently, science has started researching the pivotal role of omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation, muscle soreness, and improve muscle strength and range of motion. Look for fish oil that is in a 4:1 EPA:DHA potency with GLA. Alternatively, Ahiflower oil is a vegan, sustainable, clean-tasting and balanced omega-3 source. Both help those seeking to reduce joint inflammation, pain, boost physical performance and improve recovery from higher intensity exercise, as well as build lean muscle!
Pain Creams 

For bruises and muscle strains – and instead of smelly minty creams – try arnica, available in tablets and odourless gel.  This is a homeopathic remedy that can be used for treating minor bruises and muscle strains. It can reduce pain and swelling and speed healing. Keep a flexible cold pack handy to manage pain and swelling from an acute minor injury such as a strain or sprain.
Laxatives
These irritate your gut. Soluble fiber supplements can help improve digestive function, relieve constipation, and even solve IBS. Look for tasteless and odourless products like Regular Girl. Probiotics are also key for regularity and optimal gut function. Look for best in class probiotics with high count and shelf stability.
Sleep Medication
Ativan, Xanax and Clonazepam are just a few that are overused.  These can be addictive. In Ontario alone, 4 million prescriptions for this drug is filled each year. I recommend that if you’re experiencing mild anxiety to try increasing the amount of exercise you get and reduce caffeine instead of turning to drugs. Exercise can help take your mind off of problems and also burns off excess adrenaline where caffeine increases adrenaline – a major contributor to anxiety.
For sleeplessness due to stress or anxiety try a supplement that contains the amino acid L-theanine. L-Theanine helps promote relaxation and improve sleep quality without causing next-day drowsiness. Studies show it also helps improve sleep in children diagnosed with ADHD. For sleep issues triggered by shift work or travel, try melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone naturally secreted by the body that regulates our sleep/wake cycles. Melatonin levels naturally decline as we age
Anti-Nauseant / Indigestion
For nausea or upset stomach, studies show that the very potent compounds called gingerols found in ginger can help relieve motion sickness, dizziness, nausea and gas, as well as soothe the intestinal tract. You can find supplemental ginger in capsules and chewables. Formulas that are composed of a comprehensive blend of microbial enzymes, as well as select botanicals that act as digestive aids can provide tremendous relief!

Join our mailing list

Sign up for occasional newsletters from Bryce Wylde