My practice is all about finding ease. Whether it is with food and eating, hormonal shifts and menstrual cycles, or mental wellbeing. I am passionate about helping people experience better periods at all life stages, improved digestion & relationship to food, and improved mental health.
Read moreUnderstanding the Impact of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis on Fertility and Miscarriage - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen ND
As a naturopathic physician who works in the reproductive health field, I often encounter individuals struggling with fertility issues and recurrent miscarriages, and one of the common underlying factors I observe is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, also known as chronic autoimmune thyroiditis. In this article, we will explore the effects of Hashimoto's thyroiditis on reproductive health, including its impact on fertility and miscarriage, and discuss naturopathic supports that may help improve reproductive outcomes.
Read moreUnderstanding Perimenopause: Early vs. Late Signs and Symptoms - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
As a naturopathic doctor with a passion for women's health, I often encounter patients who are navigating the phase of life known as perimenopause. This transitional period can bring about various changes in a woman's body, with early and late perimenopause marking distinct stages in the process. To shed light on this topic, let's delve deeper into the signs and symptoms of each phase, as well as provide clarity on perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause.
Read moreFinding the Right Fit: Choosing between Iron Infusions or Oral Supplementation for Iron Deficiency - By Dr. Chelsea Cole, ND
Learn all about the symptoms, causes and risk factors of iron deficiency, as well as your treatment options. In some cases oral iron supplementation isn’t enough, and that’s when iron infusions come into play. We are pleased to offer this valuable service to the Victoria community. Learn more about IV iron in Dr. Chelsea Cole ND’s newest blog article.
Read moreThe Power of Diet in Managing PCOS: Exploring the Mediterranean Diet and Low Glycemic Index Foods - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age, often causing difficulty with weight management, insulin resistance, acne, menstrual cycle irregularity and fertility concerns. While there is no definitive cure for PCOS, adopting a healthy diet can play a crucial role in managing insulin resistance and its associated symptoms. In this article, we will explore the Mediterranean diet and low glycemic index foods as potential dietary approaches to support women with PCOS.
Read moreThe Impact of Exercise on Fertility: Understanding the Role of Intensity and BMI - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
Exercise plays a significant role in overall health and wellness, and it can also have an impact on fertility. However, the effects of exercise on fertility can vary depending on factors such as exercise intensity and BMI (Body Mass Index). In this article, we will explore the relationship between exercise and fertility, taking into account the intensity of exercise for both female and male partners.
Read moreRevitalizing Reproduction: Coenzyme Q10 and its Impact on Fertility - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
When it comes to female and male fertility, the health and quality of egg and sperm cells play a crucial role. These cells require a significant amount of energy to develop and are susceptible to oxidative damage. One key nutrient that has gained attention in recent years for its potential benefits in supporting fertility is Coenzyme Q10.
Read moreTop 5 Supplements for Endometriosis - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
Endometriosis is a gynaecological condition that affects approximately one in ten women of reproductive age. In this article, I will review the causes and risk factors of endometriosis, as well as the top 5 supplements I recommend in my naturopathic practice for endometriosis management.
Read moreUnderstanding the Link Between Hypothalamic Amenorrhea and Bone Health - By Dr. Chelsea Cole ND
Many people are aware that having irregular periods negatively affects hormones and fertility, but did you know that not having a period can affect your bone health? For example, hormonal conditions like hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), increase the risk of low bone density and fractures. If you are struggling with an irregular or absent cycle, this is just another reason to investigate your hormones, and get on a plan to feel better.
Read moreFrom Microbes to Motherhood: Exploring the Link Between the Uterine Microbiome and Fertility
The importance of a healthy uterine microbiome for optimizing fertility outcomes is a new and exciting area in the world of reproductive medicine. We once thought the uterus was a sterile organ, but we now know that it is colonized with bacteria, and recent research has shown that the type of bacteria present in the endometrium influences fertility outcomes. Let’s dive into the research shall we!
Read moreThe Power of HIIT: Improving PCOS Symptoms One Workout at a Time - By Dr. Chelsea Cole, ND
Have you heard about avoiding high intensity exercises if you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? The thought is that these activities increase cortisol levels, which can negatively affect hormone balance. In fact, there is a lot of online discussion these days about modifying your movement depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle, for a variety of different hormonal concerns, including PCOS. While it makes sense to tune into your body, and honor what you need, sometimes this conversation is filled with misinformation and can become another barrier to regular movement. So, I want to take some time to talk about recent research into the benefits of high intensity interval training (HIIT) for those with PCOS.
Read moreNavigating Endometriosis with Food: Key Nutritional Strategies to Consider - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
Endometriosis is a condition characterized by the presence of endometrial tissues outside the uterine lining, causing symptoms such as pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and fertility complications. While there are a variety of treatment options available to ease symptoms of endometriosis, recent research suggests that dietary interventions may have a role in the prevention and management of this condition. In this article, we will explore the link between diet and endometriosis and discuss important nutritional strategies that may help improve symptoms and overall well-being.
Read moreThe Heart of the Matter: How Hormones Affect Women's Cardiovascular Health
For World Menopause Day this year, the International Menopause Society launched a campaign to raise awareness on the effects of hormones on cardiovascular health in women. Specifically, they highlighted the potential cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk associated with various reproductive milestones in a woman’s life. These milestones include menstrual cyclicity, adverse pregnancy outcomes, breast cancer treatments, and menopause itself. This is such an important topic in the sphere of women’s health, and something that I review with my patients regularly. Let’s dive into the details shall we!
Read moreCyclical Progesterone Therapy for Heavy Menstrual Periods in Perimenopause - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
Heavy menstrual bleeding in is one of the most common perimenopausal concerns we see in naturopathic practice. In this article, we will explore the use of cyclical progesterone therapy as an effective option for managing heavy menstrual periods in perimenopause.
Read moreRoutine Health Screening in Naturopathic Practice - Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
Naturopathic doctors are strong advocates of preventative healthcare. Screening tests are considered secondary prevention, meaning they help identify health conditions early on so you and your family can benefit most from treatment. There are a variety of routine health screening tests and tools that are recommended by health care providers. These tests and checkups are recommended based on your age and stage of life. Learn what common screening tests are recommended in naturopathic practice in Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen’s newest blog article (…)
Read moreGetting to Know Your Menstrual Cycle: Emergency Contraception - By Dr. Chelsea Cole, ND
Understanding contraception, including emergency contraception, is an important part of sexual wellbeing. Learn more about your options in Dr. Chelsea Cole’s newest blog article (…)
Read moreJuniper News & Health Resources - Fall Edition
Juniper news, fall nutrition and recipe inspiration, World Menopause Month, and more (…)
Read moreTargeting the Gut to Improve Mental Health - By Dr. Meghan Dougan, ND
Learn all about the connection between mental health and gut health in Dr. Meghan Dougan’s newest blog article (…)
Read moreGetting to Know Your Menstrual Cycle: Mood, Hormones, and Menstruation - By Dr. Chelsea Cole, ND
Learn all about why mood changes occurr during the mesntrual cycle in Dr. Chelsea Cole’s newest blog article (…)
Read more#StayAtHome Survival Kit
We hope this blog post finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. Many of you may be feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, and lonely. It’s our goal here at Juniper Family Health to continue supporting your overall wellbeing, including mental health, especially during these difficult times. In this article we will be sharing a variety of tools and strategies to support your wellbeing at this time. We hope you find these tips valuable as we all continue to navigate through this pandemic together (…)
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