by Ottawa Public Health Vaccine Preventable Disease Program Are your kids’ immunization records up to date? Before they walk in the door at school next month, they’ll need proof of vaccination against three more diseases: chickenpox, whooping cough and meningococcal … Continue reading
“Orange” you glad vitamin C is good for you? Surf the Internet and you will find conflicting opinions about the benefits of vitamin C in preventing or treating the common cold. Whether it lives up to the cold-fighting hype or not, experts agree that vitamin C is essential to our overall health. Continue reading
Parents, listen up: We have to keep them safe. It’s up to us to ensure our kids are protected against skin cancer. In case you missed it, May 4 was Melanoma Monday. This serves as an important reminder that skin … Continue reading
Physiotherapy helps people work together to meet health challenges, push forward towards the things that matter most, and live as independently as possible. Continue reading
When it comes to healthy living, one of my main philosophies is that I don’t believe in diets or quick fixes. I believe in learning, every day, to make healthy choices that lead to living a healthy lifestyle. Continue reading
By Tovah Paglaro, Queen of Green
Bisphenol A is getting a lot of attention, with good reason. Health Canada recently reported that 95 per cent of Canadians have measurable levels of BPA in their blood or urine, with the highest levels found in children. Continue reading
by Lauren Follett, BA, RHN, Registered Nutritionist The world of health and nutrition can seem overwhelming. You know you could be doing better, and want to make some healthy choices but you don’t know where to start. Here are 5 healthy … Continue reading
(NC) A plan of action to combat dryness requires far more than slathering the body with lotion. Healthy skin calls for both internal and external care, especially in months of prolonged cold weather. Here are five of best ways to … Continue reading
In a rush? Craving something yummy and filling? Skip takeout and the drive-thru. T-fal’s newly redesigned Actifry Express is faster, more powerful and more efficient than ever. Launched in 2007 as the first low-oil multicooker, Actifry’s patented technology made it … Continue reading
Do you have a child aged 6-12 (biological or non-biological) ?
Are you willing to participate in an online study ?
If you answer “yes” to both questions, then the researchers at the University of Ottawa need your help!
Nobody wants toxic chemicals in their cosmetics. Good thing companies like The Kitchen Sink offer products with natural ingredients and amazing skin benefits.
I can give you all the advice, healthy recipes and meal ideas in the world, but you have to be at a point where you want to help yourself. Continue reading
If you’ve gone to college or university, you probably understand what it means to gain the “Freshman 15.” It’s the inevitable weight gain that happens as a result of being away from your mom’s cooking, and thrown into the world of cafeteria food, late-night take-out, beer and sleeping late. Continue reading
It’s natural to have a twinge of anxiety when the kids head off for the first day of school or daycare. We hope they’ll like their new teachers and classmates, not to mention their lunches, and come home excited about … Continue reading
A delicious blend of fresh parsley, olive oil, garlic, and red wine vinegar, chimichurri is great with BBQed steak and it’s a healthy choice too. Continue reading
One of the key factors in living a healthy life is meal planning. If you put time into a plan and buying groceries, you’re more apt to make healthy meals. Continue reading
With all of these new dairy-free options to choose from it can be difficult to know which ones are healthy choices. Here’s a list of my favorite dairy-free choices. Continue reading
Feeling a little blah? Stressed? Out of shape and zapped of energy? Join the Midwinter Slump Club. Well, it’s time to focus on yourself. That’s Y. O. U. Continue reading
203 Oneida Terrace, Ottawa, Ontario K2J 0M3
(613)304-1422
http://www.facebook.com/TummyThyme
Move over, spuds. Next time the fam damily is craving mashed potatoes, shake up the dinner fare by using cauliflower instead. Continue reading
by Lauren Follett, BA, RHN, Registered Nutritionist Even though the holidays are behind us, perhaps you’re still hanging onto those pesky pounds that seem to come around every year. Then comes the inevitable feeling of guilt, and the beginning of … Continue reading
Weight loss and maintenance are common struggles for many people. When it comes to weight loss strategy, I don’t recommend calorie counting and daily weigh-ins. Instead, I like to focus on individuals and the types of foods in their diets. Continue reading
by Lynn Rees Lambert
In the heat of the moment, it will barely register for new parents. But for someone out there, someone who has been waiting for a life-saving match, this new arrival will do more than register—it will offer hope for a cure or a longer life. Continue reading
Remember the refined sugar and fat from holidays sweets? The deep-fried, fatty and processed appetizers? The alcohol? As a result, our bodies are overloaded with toxins. That being said, anybody can be toxic at any time of the year due to poor eating habits, stress or their environment. Continue reading
I’ve learned to become a better cook. When you cook with whole, fresh foods more often you start to learn what flavours go together, and the options become endless. Besides, meals made from scratch taste way better than their frozen, packaged counterparts. Continue reading
Get kids back to the roots of activity by Kate Magner Every parent wants their kids to grow up happy, healthy and safe. One of the best things parents can do for their kids is to provide them with … Continue reading
Hormones play such an important role in our health and how we feel. A hormonal imbalance can trigger everything from acne to anxiety. Often times people will complain that they “feel off” or “just don’t feel like themselves.” Usually those feelings can be attributed to a hormonal imbalance, and for women aged 35 – 50; estrogen dominance may be to blame. Continue reading
Some great advice from Sonia Jean-Philippe, a Registered Dietitian with Ottawa Public Health: Try not to use food (such as dessert) to reward, punish or comfort. Continue reading
Helping Parents Adopt a Healthier Lifestyle for Kids with Weight Issues
Worried about your child’s weight and health? There are reasons parents are uneasy. Loads of kids — nearly one in three in Ontario — are dealing with excess weight or obesity, meaning they’re at a higher risk for medical problems, bullying, self-esteem issues and depression. Continue reading
by Lauren Follett, BA, RHN, Registered Nutritionist We moms have to stick together when it comes to healthy toddler meals and snacks that can be whipped up in no time. We’ve all been there: you come home from your afternoon outing, … Continue reading
Renowned Canadian Chef Michael Smith is called many things: Nutritional activist. Television host. Cookbook author … But he’s firmly focused on family, food and friends. Continue reading
Taking your little one out during the cold winter months can be a challenge thanks to snowsuits and hats and mitts — but the work doesn’t end there. Continue reading
Counting calories, watching portion sizes, exercising regularly and choosing lean-protein, high-fibre and low-fat options are common strategies when it comes to weight loss and maintenance; but have you heard about mindful eating? Continue reading
Earth Day Canada’s new EarthPLAY program is dedicated to putting unstructured outdoor play back into childhood and the routine of family life. Continue reading
Pokémon Go is an example of making physical activity enjoyable, according to two experts who say we need more creative approaches like it. Continue reading
Cooking for your whole family is a big challenge. After all, it’s tough to find one meal that will satisfy everyone. But don’t worry, there are plenty of crowd-pleasing meals out there to make your family dinners a success. By … Continue reading
Do you think girls’ opportunities to play school sports are limited? Is your daughter on a team or in a physical activity at school? Continue reading
By: Dr. Erin McLaughlin and Dr. Pierre Paradis
Doctors of Chiropractic
Fever. Many parents are frightened by the very word. Fever is one of the most common reasons that parents seek medical attention for their children. Continue reading
How to live to 100
(or just feel great getting there) Continue reading
As you know, apples are in season in Ontario right now, so it’s time to start taking advantage of them! Royal Gala and Honeycrisp are my personal favs for snacks, while Cortland, Empire and Granny Smith are tart and perfect for baking. Continue reading
The next time you’re grocery shopping buy double the amount of bananas you normally would. Let one bunch get nice & ripe, and than pop them in the freezer. Continue reading
Worried about harmful ingredients in your cosmetics? Lauren suggests some attractive solutions. Continue reading
by Lauren Follett, BA, RHN, Registered Nutritionist As you may have read from my last post, it’s really important to make sure your kids have enough healthy fats in their diet. Fats are just one of the three macronutrients that … Continue reading
For me, the perfect cottage weekends are filled with morning runs or bike rides followed by swimming in the lake, tanning and reading mags on the dock with friends and family, kayaking, boat cruises at sunset, camp fires, and of course delicious meals and snacks. Continue reading
If you’re in the baking mood I have a great list of delicious and healthy Christmas baking recipes that you’ll be eager to make and share this Christmas season. The best part? You can tell people they’re healthy, and they won’t believe it! Continue reading
by Lauren Follett, BA, RHN, Registered Nutritionist At this time of year, desserts and sweets are everywhere: gingerbread, chocolate, shortbread, Nanaimo bars; they can be difficult to avoid or resist. These traditional desserts are typically high in refined sugar, white … Continue reading
Winter in Canada is upon us once again and colder temperatures = staying in, being less active, and eating more. Our appetites naturally increase when it’s cold in an attempt to “survive” by storing fat. This is okay, but it’s important that you reach for healthy low-calorie, high-fibre snacks if you’re feeling extra hungry. Continue reading
by Lauren Follett, BA, RHN, Registered Nutritionist Parents often come to me with a common challenge when it comes to toddler meals: getting their kids to eat raw vegetables. Either your toddler is too young to chew through raw … Continue reading
Looking for some tasty, heart-healthy recipes your family can enjoy? These three recipes are loaded with taste and goodness. Continue reading
Are Your Wee Ones Okay in this HOT HOT HOT Weather? Keep them safe and well by watching for these signs of heat illness in children Heed these warning signals: • Changes in behaviour such as sleepiness or temper tantrums. • Dizziness … Continue reading
You are the most influential role model in your children’s lives. Use this responsibility as motivation to develop healthier habits for yourself and them. Continue reading
Does your youngster wet the bed? He or she is not alone. Fifteen per cent of kids still wet the bed after age five. Here are ideas for how you can help. Continue reading
By Trinity Chiropractic
Welcome back! Feeling refreshed yet? We’re doing a special three-part series on revitalizing your entire well being by working on all six aspects of your health over the course of 1 month (mental, social, spiritual, environmental, emotional and physical). The goal? To feel revived, refreshed, and healthier than before! Continue reading
(NC) Fear is a common reaction to ‘the obesity epidemic’, so it’s no wonder that children today are more focused on food than ever before. Kids are being taught about the importance of choosing from ‘good foods’, ‘bad foods’ and … Continue reading
It can be overwhelming enough to keep track of which food and drinks are healthy, and now I’m talking about your cookware too. I feel the same frustration when I hear about yet another common food, drink or everyday item that’s no longer considered healthy or safe to use. Continue reading
It may seem like they never stop, but new guidelines say less sitting, more moving is needed for kids aged one to four
In fact, they suggest preschoolers spend 73 to 84 per cent of their waking hours sedentary. Can it be true? Are they spending way too much time in the stroller and the highchair, in front of the T.V. and in our arms being carried?
Who knew? Continue reading
I recently bought Gwyneth Paltrow’s new cookbook, “It’s All Good” for my mom, and I couldn’t resist flipping through it before I gave it to her. Continue reading
Dealing with head lice? It’s a touchy subject by Darcie Taing R.N, M.N CCHN(C), Public Health Nurse at Ottawa Public Health When you hear your child has head lice, if you’re like most parents you’ll scratch your head and say, … Continue reading
Children under 5 years represent the fastest growing group of new diagnoses of type 1 diabetes. That’s why their safety at school is critical. Continue reading
Are your teens “reportedly” on the brink of starvation all. the. time? You can wrap up this little dilemma nicely—with no kitchen sweat. Stock the fridge, the counter and the cupboard with wrap fixings and let them go too it. … Continue reading
If your child suffers from a potentially life-threatening food allergy, it can be down right scary!
by kelly barry, R.D. Continue reading
As cases of measles continue to spread across the United States, the Canadian Paediatric Society is reminding parents about the importance of timely immunization. Vaccination is the best way to protect children and youth against many diseases, including measles. While … Continue reading
by Jason Haug, Program and Project Management Officer, Ottawa Public Health Oh the weather outside is frightful, but the fire (well the fireplace TV station on Channel 500-something) is so delightful. Netflix, time curled up on the couch texting with … Continue reading
By Alan Viau
Is helicopter parenting leading to sedentary kids? There’s new evidence to suggest the tendency for parents to drive their kids everywhere is negatively impacting their health. A report from Active Healthy Kids Canada notes, “We may be robbing them of an important source of physical activity.” Continue reading
The skinny on how to overcome common lunch-packing challenges by Brandy McDevitt, Registered Dietitian As parents know all too well, the return to school signals a return to the kitchen. You’re baaack—to the routine of packing lunches for the kids. … Continue reading
I love mustard. Do you? There are a few reasons you should make mustard your condiment of choice: Continue reading
What better way to cool off than with smoothies using fresh, local ingredients? They offer easy, wholesome ways to soak up nutritious fruits and vegetables. Continue reading
One of the tricks to healthy baking is to find a natural, unrefined sweetener to substitute for refined sugar. Ripe bananas, unpasteurized honey, coconut palm sugar, real maple syrup and dates are my top choices. Continue reading
Fido is an ideal workout buddy to help you achieve your fitness goals. Let your dog’s contagious energy be your motivation to get out and be active. Continue reading
Over 24 Percent of all Canadian Kids are Overweight or Obese
Are yours at risk? The No-Diet Obesity Solution for Kids, a new book by Miriam B. Vos, M.D., offers a diet-free solution Continue reading
by Alan Viau Statistics Canada has released a report that should scare parents about the future health of their children. Over the last 37 years, childhood obesity has exploded for both boys and girls aged three to 19. This trend predicts that we … Continue reading
by Chris Read A couple of months ago, I was groggily going through my morning routine when I caught a glimpse of myself in the bathroom mirror. I barely recognized the person staring back at me, and the disappointment set … Continue reading
Here comes the sun! Don’t forget to protect wee ones from harmful rays, even on these unseasonably warm spring days Continue reading
Angelo Georgitsos knows a thing or two about determination. He’s an RCMP officer who loves his job and who serves his community with diligence, despite a painful, chronic health condition. In December of 2009, he was diagnosed with psoriatic … Continue reading
Eating Evolvd provides fresh, healthy meals that are 100 per cent gluten free. They’re prepared by a chef and delivered to your home, office or gym. Continue reading
By Barbara Dundas
When my husband, a civilian employee for the Department of National Defence, was in Afghanistan for five months in 2010, I started running. I did so for two reasons: to get away from worrying about my husband and to escape the stresses of single parenting. What I have, two years later, is a passion for running. Continue reading
Physiotherapy helps stroke recovery “Now every day is a brand new day. There’s always something new to overcome. Paola is working hard, pushing forward, step by step, moving again and painting.” Every year, more than 50,000 Canadians have a stroke. … Continue reading
It’s common knowledge that eating raw fruits and vegetables is good for you, but do you really know why? Continue reading
The Road Less Travelled by Amanda Jetté Knox On a cold February night last winter, our 11-year-old sent us a heartfelt email: “I am a girl trapped inside a boy’s body,” it said. “More than anything, I want to be … Continue reading
Looking for a yummy recipe to start the weekend off with mega-fuel and nutrition — so you can whip down the canal or the ski and sliding hills? Have we got you covered! This yummy recipe from TummyThyme fits the … Continue reading
Are you one of countless unseen heroes of the Sandwich Generation or Club Sandwich Generation? Be seen, be vocal about needing assistance, and be well. Continue reading
What happens when your child’s tooth accidentally gets knocked out? All is not lost…. Continue reading
Follow Ottawa Family Living’s Food for Life blogger, Lauren on her International Wellness Journey.
Most Canadian children never have their eyes examined, yet one in six may have a vision problem by Elizabeth Lee-Ford Jones and Mélanie Meloche-Holubowski Currently only 14 percent of Canadian children under the age of six receive professional eye care. … Continue reading
Why are Ottawa’s recreation facilities and hospitals contributing to obesity?
By Pam Dillon Continue reading
Cooking an easy, healthy meal doesn’t have to be complicated; it’s all about how you approach it. You can put together a different healthy meal every night simply by switching up your combination of ingredients. Continue reading
After months of harsh weather and dry heat, odds are your skin is begging for moisture. Check out these skincare products! They’ll do the trick and keep you looking fab.
Continue reading
Making Sure your Baby’s Room is Truly Green
By Heather Cameron
Car seat? Check.
Baby gates? Check.
Electrical outlet safety covers? Double check.
So, think you have done everything possible to keep your new baby safe? Continue reading
by Shirley Plant High Protein Smoothie 2/3 cup frozen or fresh blueberries 1 tbsp cashew butter or almond butter 1/4 slice of avocado 3 tbsp hemp seeds 1 tsp ground chia seeds 1/2 small banana (optional) 2/3- 3/4 cup of … Continue reading
There’s nothing like soup to warm you up after a session of skating, sliding, skiing or walking Fido in the wintery outdoors. This easy Souper Friday soup recipe is packed with nutrients and wholesome goodness. It’s kid-approved and a … Continue reading
By Lauren Sytsma This pasta recipe is healthy, easy & delicious, and provides a creative way to add raw leafy greens to your family’s diet! Instead of store-bought pasta sauces that are high in sugar, salt and preservatives, this homemade … Continue reading
Feeling kind of sluggish after a winter of cocooning? Nutritionist Lauren Follett says it’s time to spring clean your diet. You’ll feel and function much better. Continue reading
Self-care and empowerment coach Catherine Hull says self-care means caring for ourselves in a way that allows us to be open, free, joyful and able to deal with the stresses life puts in our path. Continue reading
Spring kind of reminds me of the New Year’s period; it’s a time for fresh starts. The weather warms up, plants start to grow, and people are inspired to get outside and start living life again. I’ve seen many people … Continue reading
Kids swearing off junky food? Yes! November boycott designed to make fast food uncool Students are saying “No!” to fast food with a provocative – and smart – new campaign. Named Stick It to Fast Food, the effort by the … Continue reading
This time of year is cold & flu season. It’s cold outside so everyone spends more time indoors, and germs circulate making it very easy to catch a cold or the flu. Continue reading
by Chloé Taylor
Body image is something many of us fret about on a regular basis. That includes me. There are particular times in life when this worry is exacerbated – puberty, swimsuit shopping, personal training sessions, Mondays, the list goes on and on. We feel too fat, too skinny, too short or too tall. Continue reading
The Canadian Cancer Society is launching Sugar-free September to raise awareness that excess weight can cause cancer. Is your family up for the challenge?
Continue reading
Planning to add to your family? Whether a pregnancy test has already revealed you’re expecting or you’re finally ready to try and conceive, you want to be certain you and the baby-to-be are getting all the nourishment you need. Continue reading
by Lauren Follett, BA, RHN, Registered Nutritionist Want to make some healthy changes in 2016? The key to success is to choose reasonable goals. For example, instead of saying, “I want to lose 30 pounds” (which is a great goal, … Continue reading
Are you wondering about your kid’s mental health? After all, puberty is a challenging time. Is he or she really okay? Here’s how to start the conversation. Continue reading
If you were to meet Jenna in a hall at school or at one of her sports or social events, you’d think she could write the book on how to ace the teen years. The 16-year-old Grade 11 student attends … Continue reading
I think most of us feel a little sluggish at this time of year and we could certainly use a break from rich, heavy food. Continue reading
The other day I bought an awesome new kitchen gadget: the OXO Julienne Peeler (available at The Bay for $10.99). It works like a regular peeler, but the blade is serrated to form long, skinny strips of whatever you’re peeling. Continue reading
Feeding Hungry Minds Since 1990 By Amanda Jette Knox It’s an early autumn morning at a school in the heart of Ottawa. The gymnasium windows are open and sunlight spills onto a few tables topped with bowls of fresh fruit. … Continue reading
by Sharon DeVellis When you think of a triathlete, I’m not exactly the image that springs to mind. I’m a 44-year-old mom of two who was never particularly athletic. I try my best to avoid Lycra unless it’s in the … Continue reading
Should you take vitamins or supplements on a regular basis? Lauren weighs in. Continue reading
Everyone is interested in detoxing at this time of year. You’ve overdone it over the holidays, and want to rid your body of built-up toxins. I’ve put together an awesome smoothie recipe that includes fresh, raw ingredients that will do the trick. Continue reading
Contributed By: Tovah Paglaro, David Suzuki’s Queen of Green
If you’re among the hundreds of thousands of Canadians who spent part of the weekend celebrating Earth Day in nature, you’re likely feeling relaxed, refreshed and re-energized. Continue reading
The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation is on its way to Ottawa as part of the Pink Tour. Again this summer, the foundation is making stops in over 90 Ontario communities with its big pink bus. It’s quite the sight! Continue reading
Vitamix S30 Redefines the Personal Blender; Offers the Joys of Culinary Exploration in a Powerful, Convenient, Compact Design Continue reading
Wondering what to cook for dinner? This tasty, nutritious sweet potato stew hits the “sweet” spot. You and the kids will be clamouring for seconds. Continue reading
Here is something that we would like for you to reflect on this week: “When did we start doubting in our body’s ability to heal itself?” Continue reading
Every year, more than 50,000 Canadians have a stroke. Each day, #PhysiotherapyHelpsLives by helping to rehabilitate those that have been affected. Continue reading
Did you use the services of a midwife when you had your last baby? Would you like to have a midwife for your next one? This OpEd is a great read. Why do we have so few midwives in Canada? … Continue reading
It’s far too easy to spread yourself thin with job and family obligations. Work-life balance can be an exhausting juggling act that, at times, may seem impossible without leaving yourself in the dust. Sometimes you need to recharge so you can keep doing … Continue reading
By Christa Poirier, Registered Nurse, and Jason Haug, Program and Project Management Officer, Ottawa Public Health Vaccines are a proven and safe way to prevent serious infections. Although we rarely see most of the diseases that we vaccinate for in … Continue reading
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