Women's Voice - Vol 29 CND by Women's Voice Magazine

SPECIAL EDITION

THE HEALTH OF

Our Planet and Everything on It

Natural Health for Women REAL Physicians – REAL Solutions

THE BEAUTIFUL GREEN EARTH

Our Only Home

Get Optimum

Energy

HIGH ALPHA

WHEY PROTEIN MEAL REPLACEMENT with 5 g of

LOW FODMAP

Reliefibre®

This delicious meal replacement is packed with nutrition. It delivers 25 g of the highest quality high-alpha whey protein, along with 5 g of low-FODMAP Reliefibre* per serving, to keep you satisfied between meals and give your body the nutrient boost it needs. For the ultimate in energy and nutrition, try our delicious chocolate and vanilla powder options.

*This highly soluble dietary fibre and prebiotic is clinically recognized to maintain digestive health and relieve symptoms of IBS.

A Few Earth

SUPERHEROES Past, Present, and Future

Natural Health for Women REAL Physicians – REAL Solutions

Choose Organic: A Healthier Planet Starts on Your Plate

Letter from the Editor

– by Karlene Karst, BSc Nutrition

Our Beautiful Green Earth – by Roland Gahler

Our Beautiful Green Earth: A Jewel in the Universe

Earth’s Delicate Equilibrium

A New Era for Multivitamins: The Science Behind the Comeback

– by Kate Rhéaume, ND

Whole Earth & Sea® Farms

Nature, People, and Innovation Creating a Sustainable Future

Blue Waves of Connection

Every Purchase Counts

Hands in the Dirt... Hearts at Work

52 From Silent Spring to Living Soil – by Aube Giroux

58 Staying Radiant: Reversing Collagen Loss During Menopause

Supplement Smarts: The Ultimate Guide to Dos and Don’ts

– by Stephanie Rubino, ND

– by Kate Rhéaume, ND

Digestive Cycles and the Earth’s Rhythms

– by Stephanie Rubino, ND

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

MEDICAL & SCIENCE

EDITORIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE At Women’s Voice®, we are committed to providing our readers with real health solutions from real physicians. To ensure our editorial excellence, we have assembled medical professionals who are dedicated experts and leaders in natural health to serve on Women’s Voice Medical & Science Editorial Advisory Committee.

KATE RHÉAUME, ND

STEPHANIE RUBINO, ND

Dr. Kate Rhéaume is a graduate and former faculty member of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. A leading expert in natural medicine, Dr. Kate is the author of the bestselling book Vitamin K2 and the Calcium Paradox (HarperCollins).

Dr. Stephanie Rubino is a licensed naturopathic doctor in clinical practice focusing on preventive health. As a wellness educator, she highlights the importance of nutrition, lifestyle, and the safe use of supplements. She has been a contributor to various health publications and has appeared on TV news shows.

KAREN JENSEN, ND

JENNIFER BRIX, ND

Dr. Karen Jensen was in clinical practice for 25 years and although she is retired, she continues to write books and educate on the naturopathic approach to wellness. She is the author or co-author of nine books; her most recent is Mental Health Crisis in Children and Teens. Nutrition – A Real Solution.

Dr. Jennifer Brix is a licensed naturopathic doctor, health educator, and public speaker with a passion for empowering her patients to achieve optimal health. She has particular expertise in treating digestive complaints, hormonal imbalances, and brain-related health conditions.

KARLENE KARST, BSc Nutrition

GAETANO MORELLO, ND

Karlene is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and founder of Verily Kitchen. She blends Mediterranean flavours with prairie roots to inspire joyful, nourishing living through food. As a trusted wellness voice and mother of three, she advocates for simple, wholesome cooking that promotes vibrant health and mindful living. IG: @karlenekarst

Dr. Gaetano Morello is a published author and licensed naturopathic physician. Recently he has been appointed as a Clinician at the newly created Complex Chronic Disease Program located at BC Women’s Hospital in Vancouver. He is the first naturopathic doctor to hold such a position at a major North American hospital.

JULIE REIL, MD

JULIA SOLNIER, PhD

Dr. Julie Reil is an internationally recognized physician, health and nutrition advocate, speaker, and Women’s Voice author. She developed the Genityte® urinary incontinence procedure and the Triple Tone Treatment®. Dr. Reil founded Shiloh Medical Clinic in Billings, Montana.

Dr. Julia Solnier holds a doctorate in Pharmaceutical Sciences and is an expert in pharmacognosy (medicinal plant research). She has decades of experience in herbal medicine research, has published numerous scientific papers, and has developed innovative delivery solutions for natural health products and dietary supplements.

MARITA SCHAUCH, ND

MICHAEL R. LYON, MD

Dr. Marita Schauch is the author of two books, Making Sense of Women’s Health and Collagen Myths & Misconceptions. She also co-authored The Adrenal Stress Connection. In addition to her clinical practice, she lectures across North America, educating people on positive lifestyle choices.

Editor: Nancy Frances Cheeseman Deputy Editor: Brinda Navjee Editorial Assistant: Heba Sourour Art Direction: Beata Stolarska, Stephen Rank Graphic Designers: Rut Shapira, Jasper van Meurs, Celia Bowes, Mark Cawker, and Felicia Yee PUBLISHED BY Women’s Voice Magazine womensvoice.com

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Dr. Michael R. Lyon is a UBC faculty member and is a published researcher in the fields of nutrition, appetite regulation, dietary fibre, and blood sugar regulation. He is Board Certified in Obesity Medicine through the American Board of Obesity Medicine and he completed a three-year family practice residency in 1988.

ADVERTISING POLICY In this magazine, we will advertise only products exclusively sold in natural health stores. EDITORIAL NOTE The information in this magazine is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a qualified and licensed health professional. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, copied, sold, or distributed without prior authorization. All article references can be found at womensvoicemagazine.com Women’s Voice® is a registered magazine in Canada and the United States. Canada: 1811559 / USA: 87249676 Real Physicians – Real Solutions Cover photo: iStock

Life’s True Currency – The Earth, Family, and Community

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR This spring, we honour the visionaries who recognized long ago that the Earth and humanity share a deep connection. As you explore this volume, take a moment to consider how we should not only celebrate our beautiful planet but also make meaningful changes for future generations. Imagine we are grains of sand on a beach. When we come together to reduce waste, plant gardens, and avoid excess, we create a mountain of positivity. Together, we can make a huge difference. Let’s grow green, stay clean, and inspire each other to help our planet thrive. In this special edition, we pay tribute to the remarkable Rachel Carson in the article “From Silent Spring to Living Soil,” written by award-winning filmmaker Aube Giroux. Reflecting on Carson’s work prompts us to consider: had we heeded her warnings and wisdom about pesticide use decades ago, where might we be today? Her legacy urges us now to contemplate the paths we might choose for a sustainable and thriving future. We also highlight the notable achievements of Christy Walton, who has dedicated 45 years to empowering communities and strengthening local economies by protecting and restoring land and ocean environments in the Gulf of California. Plus, in “Our Beautiful Green Earth: A Jewel in the Universe,” NASA astronaut Ron Garan, who spent 178 days in space and travelled 71 million miles, observed Earth’s fragility from above and had an epiphany: we must see ourselves as planetary beings, interconnected and united, sharing a fragile oasis. Another highlight, “Whole Earth & Sea® Farms,” emphasizes how non-GMO and organic food dominate the news while overlooking the most vital aspects of food production: growing sustainably and the importance of regenerative farming, which work with nature to support the planet. Additional articles include “A New Era for Multivitamins” by Kate Rhéaume, ND, “Digestive Cycles and the Earth’s Rhythms” by Stephanie Rubino, ND, and “Choose Organic: A Healthier Planet Starts on Your Plate” by Karlene Karst, BSc Nutrition.

VOLUME 29

As you explore this content, take a moment to consider how we can celebrate our beautiful, green Earth every day and make meaningful changes to honour it. Start today and begin a transformative journey – one that values family, experiences, and community over material possessions. Together, let’s make both our planet and our hearts a little greener!

Printed on FSC® Mix paper using recycled inks.

Fuel Your Health, Transform Your Life – Nancy Frances Cheeseman

About WV

Commitment to Natural Health Retailers

“We’re creating a global community of people of all ages, shapes, and backgrounds who care deeply about each other, natural health, and our planet’s ecosystem. Our team includes doctors, nutritionists, and health advocates working for a healthier planet.”

We are dedicated to supporting natural health retailers throughout North America. WV magazine is only available in natural health stores and online. For over 80 years, our retail partners have sold dietary supplements to improve health, emphasized the advantages of organic products and a healthy lifestyle, and strengthened local economies. These stores play a crucial role in fostering community and reducing the planet’s carbon footprint.

At WV magazine, our commitment to Planet Earth is strong and getting stronger! The print you are reading today uses recycled inks and FSC® certified paper, made from a combination of material from well-managed FSC-certified forests and recycled material. The Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) ensures that FSC Mix paper maintains forest health and protects fish and wildlife habitats.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

1 5

Our Beautiful BY ROLAND GAHLER

The work of PLANT A SEED & SEE WHAT GROWS has always been guided by one simple belief: that every child can discover their own path in life by learning about our universe and our Earth, the only home we have. By understanding how our world works, and how to care for it, children learn how to support the many amazing ways it provides everything we need to live long, healthy lives. I started thinking about all the things you can do with something you grow. That thought really stayed with me, because I will never forget how I felt when I planted just one small bean seed.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

That’s why I think it’s so important for everyone to have the chance, when they are young, to plant a seed, or many seeds, and begin imagining what they could do with what they grow. For me, I’ve always been a doer. I wanted to be someone who takes action, and that’s who I’ve tried to be my whole life.

And I think that’s something we should all think about: what can I do with my life? This question is powerful, because it

Green Earth people. Each of us has their You live here. There is no own personality. other place like this one. Because of this, it’s No two people on Earth important for all of us to think in exactly the same remember to care for our way. We are all unique, own backyard and every and that is something truly backyard on Earth, keeping special. When we bring them as clean and as all of our different ideas, healthy as we can. talents, and personalities This matters deeply, together, we create because of the people something beautiful. who will come after us. We create the possibility We want to leave of the most caring and something beautiful for inspiring human society, them to enjoy. if we allow ourselves to imagine what we could grow. We don’t own the Earth, and we don’t truly own Always remember this: the land. Instead, we are all you are special. blessed enough You are an to share it. individual. You matter. I love We are allowed you all, and to live here, to I want you enjoy it, to walk to carry that along the beach, with you. to feel the begins with ocean, to climb imagination. It’s not This love is the mountains, about deciding, “I’m going for everyone, and to see the beauty of to be a farmer,” though you no matter your nationality, our wonderful Earth. certainly could. It’s about where you come from, or understanding that ideas who you are. You belong. can grow in thousands of You are a child of this Earth. different ways, just like

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

“Our Beautiful Green Earth A Wonderful New Book by Roland Gahler for the Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation From our endless universe to the Milky Way galaxy and our solar system, where we find our beautiful green Earth – our only home. Each of us can do something every day to make a difference in keeping our Earth healthy. From the youngest to the oldest, let’s come together in harmony to create positive change.

“

The universe is vast, and Earth is a tiny dot in the Milky Way. On this small planet we call home, there are billions of people living

together. We are all different and unique. Always be kind to everyone and greet others with respect. Smile and say hello!

By caring for one another and working together, we can help keep our beautiful, green Earth happy and healthy.

”

– A Jewel in the Universe” Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation has created a

SPECIAL BOX,

available in natural food and supplement stores.

Inside, you’ll find three children’s books and an activity and colouring booklet. All for only a $5 CONTRIBUTION to the Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation, a nonprofit charity. seewhatgrows.org WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Rejuvenate

your life!

Just one packet can make all the difference Mitochondria are present in every cell in our body. They convert the energy from food we eat into energy that our cells can use. They are fundamental to life and health; however, as we age, our ability to create healthy mitochondria to support our energy diminishes. To help revive and improve our mitochondria, we’ve included some of the best supplements in one convenient daily packet.

regenerlife.ca

NMNsurge Quercetin LipoMicel Matrix

Mitochondrial Energy

Omega-3+D Ultra Strength

The powerhouse of energy and lifelong vibrancy What are mitochondria, and how do we spark them? They are like very tiny powerplants that produce energy in every living cell of our bodies. On average, every cell has 1,500 mitochondria. Can you imagine that for their extremely small size, it’s been said that they produce, gram for gram, 10,000–50,000 times more energy than the sun? To say that mitochondria are important to human health is grossly understating their role in our

survival. We literally would not be alive without them. They convert our food into energy, so that every other function of our body can occur as it needs to. As we age, our ability to create healthy mitochondria to support our energy demands diminishes. And because about 90% of our cellular energy is produced by mitochondria, this decline can cause significant health issues.

Available exclusively in natural food stores.

Green Earth jewel OUR BEAUTIFUL

IN THE

UNIVERSE

NASA astronaut Ron Garan embarked on an extraordinary journey, spending a remarkable 178 days in space. During his time, he travelled over 71 million miles, completing an astounding 2,842 orbits around the Earth. 12

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

It was during one of these breathtaking views, soaring high above the planet, that he experienced a profound “aha” moment – a realization that went beyond the confines of our terrestrial existence. He understood that we must see ourselves not just as inhabitants of a country or a planet but as planetary beings, interconnected and unified, sharing a fragile oasis in the cosmos. This epiphany completely transformed his perspective, inspiring him to advocate for greater awareness of our planet and to protect it for future generations.

As he looked at Earth from space, he began to understand how fragile the protective layer surrounding the planet truly is. This paper-thin layer sustains all life on Earth. He observed “an iridescent biosphere teeming with life,” but he realized that society prioritizes the economy over the planet. He said, “Our current hierarchy is Economy, Society, Planet. We need to rethink this order: Planet, Society, Economy.” Everyone on Earth must deeply reconsider and change our priorities to planet, society, and then economy. By placing the economy at the forefront, we are paying

a steep price as a civilization, one that puts our future in jeopardy. A substantial part of the dilemma lies in our persistent neglect of the planet, our only home. If we continue to turn a blind eye to the intricate connections we share with the Earth and its ecosystems, we risk causing irreparable harm to ourselves and future generations. Only by prioritizing the health and vitality of our Earth can we forge a sustainable future, ensuring a thriving environment for future generations. It’s time to act decisively and embrace a collective responsibility for the planet that sustains us all.

It is now time to shift our focus and recognize that the health of our planet should serve as the foundation for our societies and economies.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

NATURE, PEOPLE, and INNOVATIONe

l b a n i a t s u S a Creating Future

Christy Walton is more than a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and activist – she’s a storyteller, a pioneer, and a bridge builder between people, nature, and innovation. For over 45 years, she has been working with communities to find solutions that strengthen local economies, protect and restore land and ocean environments, and celebrate the unique spirit of each place in which she has invested. Christy’s work is anchored in four interconnected pillars: ocean vitality, land and water stewardship, sense of place, and resilient communities – all rooted in her commitment to place, heritage, and culture. Her work spans the Americas with particular focus on La Paz, Baja California Sur and the Gulf of California, approaching community, environment, and economy as a system for well-being.

OCEAN VITALITY

My interest is in supporting and developing systems that bring positive outcomes in social, environmental, and economic health, which I see as inextricably intertwined. – Christy Walton

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

The health of our planet is inextricably linked to the health of our ocean. This has driven Christy’s commitment to developing renewed and regenerative relationships between the ocean, its biodiversity, and coastal communities. One example is regenerative aquaculture. With an estimated 35.5% of the world’s fisheries overexploited, negative environmental outcomes, and animal health challenges hindering aquaculture adoption, Christy pursued extensive

partnerships and investments that led to the development of submersible offshore aquaculture systems, farmable warm-water finfish species, advancements in finfish and shellfish genetics, and species with resistance to climate change. Aquaculture systems contribute to restoring marine ecosystems by creating safe zones for wild fish and reestablishing or creating biodiverse habitats, while generating jobs and enabling year-round, diversified fish production for the market.

To accelerate the advancement of technology and farming techniques, Christy co-founded Cuna del Mar. The portfolio of vertically integrated aquaculture companies is pioneering submersible offshore farms, underwater feed systems, advanced hatcheries, fish tracking, genetics research, vaccines, and sustainable feed solutions. The farms are demonstrating possibilities and practices that can underpin viable business models. A pioneering Cuna del Mar business, Santomar, is the only finfish farm cultivating totoaba, an endemic species of the Gulf of California, and red snapper (huachinango). Each year, the business releases juvenile totoaba to support the reestablishment of the threatened species. In partnership with local fishing cooperatives and educational organizations, Santomar has released over 270,000 totoaba. According to data from Mexico’s National Commission of Aquaculture and Fisheries (CONAPESCA) and the General Directorate of Wildlife of The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources of Mexico (SEMARNAT), Santomar’s business model and

release program have contributed substantially to the regeneration of the totoaba population in the Gulf of California. Santomar also offers marine biology students hands-on training in partnership with the state university, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur (UABCS), fostering the next generation of ocean stewards. Christy also understands that local innovation and entrepreneurship are essential to finding new solutions and encouraging the adoption of regenerative practices. To accelerate the advancement of regenerative aquaculture practices and support small- and medium-sized

business growth, her philanthropy: | Supports local entrepreneurs and

the community-led development of regenerative and cooperative seafood models. | Supports local innovations in new

and overfished endemic species. | Catalyzes and facilitates local and

regional learning and innovation supported by NGOs and government agencies in Mexico.

Our oceans and their resources are significantly degraded. It is no longer enough to assume that sustainability alone will reverse the damage. We must move beyond efforts to do no further harm and take huge strides toward generative and regenerative outcomes. It’s time to invest significantly in advanced technologies and systems.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

LAND AND WATER STEWARDSHIP To contribute to the restoration of the watershed and biodiversity of the Sierra Cacachilas, Christy established Rancho Cacachilas, an operating ranch, to demonstrate successful business models that restore land and water resources while honouring and strengthening the environment, culture, and community. The ranch operations include: | Hospitality and nature-based

experiences, which include trail system development and other erosion control systems that support soil health and the reestablishment of flora and fauna. Christy has long focused on the intersection of ocean and land in coastal ecosystems. She believes the restoration of our land and water resources can also be accelerated by regenerative practices. One example is Rancho Cacachilas in Baja California Sur.

| Regenerative permaculture

and beekeeping with farmto-table hospitality options. | Holistic livestock

management, including meat production and cheesemaking with award-winning cheeses. Today, scientists from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), as well as regional universities and institutions, are conducting

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

ongoing research on aquifer recharge, biodiversity abundance, and land restoration, reinforcing these conservation efforts with datadriven strategies. Rancho Cacachilas offers its learnings to communities of practice to catalyze new ideas and support the adoption of regenerative methods. Additionally, the ranch supports summer camps and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education programs as well as social enterprise workshops for the community.

CULTURE, TRADITION, AND A SENSE OF PLACE Christy has always believed that when people feel connected to and understand the nature of a place – its history, biodiversity, and traditions – they can become its fiercest protectors. We build a strong sense of place when we share a sense of identity, belonging, respect, and responsibility. Christy believes this can inspire communities and individuals to enhance and protect the vitality of their land, water, people, and culture. That’s why she has established several organizations and programs to develop and sustain opportunities for people of all ages, helping them to experience and celebrate art, culture, tradition, and their historical heritage.

El Triunfo, in Baja California Sur, is an example of a community working creatively at the intersection of a rich ranching and mining history, sustainable practices and responsible tourism, and innovation to support resilience and adaptation. To support the economic transition from mining to heritage-based history, art, and intercultural exchange, Christy and her team established Museo Ruta de Plata and the Museo del Vaquero de las Californias (MUVACA), preserving El Triunfo’s mining heritage and celebrating the regional ranching culture. Since its opening in 2022, MUVACA has welcomed nearly 42,000 visitors and engaged over 14,000 youth in educational programs.

Through decades of investments and philanthropy, Christy has gained valuable insight into the key factors that create lasting impact.

By applying lessons learned and looking for interdependencies, her teams form a network of interconnected efforts that strengthen environmental, social, and economic resilience. Her work is constantly evolving, aspiring to ensure lasting impact through adaptive, long-term solutions. Visit ialumbra.com for more info.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Blue Waves of Connection The Ocean’s Impact on Humanity

The ocean is enchanting when the sun spills its golden light across its shimmering surface, transforming the water into a million diamonds dancing in perfect harmony. However, the ocean is not merely a body of water; it is a dynamic ecosystem that sustains an intricate web of life, contributing to the delicate balance that makes Earth habitable and, more broadly, our planet livable. Therefore, we need to keep the ocean clean. Here is why a healthy ocean is essential to our human experience: Climate regulation: The ocean absorbs over 90% of excess heat and about a quarter of carbon dioxide emissions, which helps moderate temperatures and weather patterns. Food: Over 3 billion people rely on the ocean as their primary source of protein and nutrition. Oxygen: As much as 50% of the Earth’s oxygen is produced by marine plants and phytoplankton. An economic machine: It supports millions of jobs, such as fishing, tourism, and transportation, with 90% of international trade occurring via maritime routes.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Coastal protection: Ecosystems like coral reefs and mangroves serve as natural shields, safeguarding coastlines from storms and erosion. Medicine and resources: Marine organisms hold promise for developing new medicines, and the ocean serves as a vital source of essential minerals and energy resources.

What can you do? Can one person truly make a difference? The answer is clear: each of us has the power to create a meaningful impact. Start by removing single-use plastics from your life – opt for reusable options that benefit both you and the environment. Commit to disposing of waste properly and recycling whenever you can; it’s a small step

that can lead to great change. Also, think about using natural herbicides in your garden. These environmentally friendly solutions effectively eliminate stubborn weeds while protecting our health and the planet from harmful chemicals. Get involved with groups dedicated to cleaning our beaches and removing harmful plastics from our oceans. The health of our waters is essential not only for us but also for the many ecosystems that depend on it. Protecting our oceans is a shared responsibility that requires immediate and sustained action. Remember, saving our beautiful green Earth depends on what we do today. Let’s come together to turn the tide for our environment and future generations.

Build back

calm

your

Magnesium Bisglycinate is

Nature’s Serenity Mineral essential for all cells in the body

Just as the magnesium in a soothing Epsom salt bath calms from the outside in, our Magnesium Bisglycinate works to calm from the inside out.

naturalfactors.com

arth’s EDelicate

Equilibrium

The Negative Impact

of Human Intervention Yellowstone National Park is celebrated for its beauty and unique thermal landscape, and a pivotal decision secured its survival.

Recognizing that removing wolves from their habitat a century ago led to elk overpopulation, overgrazing, and environmental harm, the park made a bold decision 25 years ago to change course. Yellowstone reintroduced wolves to reestablish the balance between predators and prey. This action triggered a remarkable chain of benefits: as elk herds moved further to avoid wolves, berry bushes regrew, providing food for birds and bears. Other shrubs along waterways thrived, creating habitats for migratory fish and helping to

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

absorb some of the excess carbon dioxide that intensifies climate change. Additionally, scavengers such as foxes and eagles returned to feed on elk carcasses left by wolves. The experience of Yellowstone National Park with the reintroduction of wolves serves as a lesson about the intricate balance of nature and raises questions about the implications of human interference. It demonstrates that the natural world, in all its complexity, exists in a state of refined equilibrium.

The reestablishment of wolves revitalized the ecological framework, triggering a cascade of unexpected positive changes throughout the ecosystem and highlighting the interconnectedness of all living beings.

It seems like most people who have some form of IBS benefit from Butyric Acid. Let’s face it – most of us deal with some kind of gut issue.

Butyric Acid works by strengthening the gut barrier: Maintains the integrity of the gut lining Promotes a balanced gut microbiome Helps regulate the immune system and intestinal tract inflammation

500 mg

“I have su ffered wit h IBS for decades. Nothing h elped unti Regenerl l I tried ife B I can say… utyric Acid. Wow is all just wow! W few days , I felt norm ithin just a al. I didn’t what norm know al was. A ll my sympto were gon e. No side ms effects at Amazing a ll. product.” – RC

1000 mg

2 softgels per packet

4 softgels per packet

regenerlife.ca WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Whole Earth ® & Sea

s m r Fa

A quiet but important shift is taking place in farming – one rooted in common sense and respect for nature.

For years, terms like organic or non-GMO have dominated the conversation. While meaningful, they often miss the bigger picture: growing food in a way that works with the land, not against it. These labels address symptoms rather than the source. Farming has slowly shifted from conventional methods to greener, more sustainable approaches, and now toward regenerative practices. Unlike conventional farming, which can wear down the land over time, regenerative farming helps restore it – improving soil, supporting wildlife, and benefiting farming communities. 22

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Regenerative agriculture is a holistic land management practice that leverages the power of photosynthesis in plants to close the carbon cycle and build soil health, crop resilience, and nutrient density. Healthier soil means healthier farms, food, and ecosystems for the long run. At Whole Earth & Sea Farms, these regenerative methodologies and practices are part of our DNA. Our regenerative farms are inherently organic. But organic often gets defined as things we shouldn’t do. In contrast, regenerative is a list of things we should do. Regenerative farming goes a step beyond organic certification. It’s about working with nature instead of managing around it – using fewer external inputs, protecting natural resources,

Along the canal that winds through the property from Otter Lake and the wetlands, preserved corridors offer safe nesting grounds for birds while supporting pollinators and other wildlife essential to the health of the farm. and helping the land heal itself. The goal isn’t just sustainability, but true partnership with the ecosystem. One organization supporting this movement is ABOV™ (Agriculture Beyond Organic Verification), a nonprofit organization founded by farmers,

For us, it’s about farming with respect, intention, and balance – because when soil, water, wildlife, and people work in harmony, they provide everything we need. scientists, and health experts. Since 2017, ABOV has had certified organic farms that also focus on building healthy, nutrient-rich soil, capturing carbon, conserving water, and protecting biodiversity. Regenerative farming focuses on a few simple but powerful ideas: building healthy, fertile soil; helping the land absorb and hold more water while producing clean, safe water runoff; increasing biodiversity and ecosystem health and resiliency; and turning farms into carbon sinks that pull carbon out of the air instead of adding more to it. The intended result? ABOV certified products that assure consumers that they’re making purchases that contribute to a healthier planet.

Practices such as cover cropping, crop rotation, composting, organic amendments, and reduced or no-till cultivation help build resilient soils that support healthy, expressive crops. Our commitment, however, extends well beyond seed and soil. We take a holistic approach to farming – one that recognizes the land as a living system where soil health, biodiversity, water, and wildlife are inseparable. Across the farms, thoughtfully designed ponds act as natural hatcheries for beneficial insects such as dragonflies, which provide effective airborne pest control. These water features also support frogs, another vital ally in maintaining balance. Together, they reduce reliance on intervention while strengthening the farm’s ecological resilience.

while supporting pollinators and other wildlife essential to the health of the farm. Our apiary further enhances this system. The bees not only bring life and energy to the land but also support robust pollination, helping crops thrive naturally. Grassy waterways throughout the property do more than add beauty – they conserve water, improve drainage, and protect soil integrity. Taken together, these elements form an interconnected ecosystem where each part supports the whole. The result is a harmonious microclimate that nurtures both our crops and the natural world around them.

We intentionally blend cultivated fields with wildlife corridors, protected habitats, and wild spaces. Birds, bats, shrews, coyotes, bears, and countless other species play an active role in maintaining ecological balance. Along the canal that winds through the property from Otter Lake and the wetlands, preserved corridors offer safe nesting grounds for birds

If this begins to sound more like a wildlife preserve than a farm, that’s intentional. We believe biodiversity is not separate from agriculture – it is central to it. When nature flourishes, so does the land, and so does the quality of what we grow. We don’t chase trends or labels. Whether regenerative, sustainable, or restorative, the terminology matters less than the outcome.

At Whole Earth & Sea Farms in the Okanagan Valley, regenerative farming has long guided how we grow. We begin with non-hybrid, non-GMO seeds planted in fertile alluvial soils, then focus our efforts on restoring and strengthening soil health rather than depleting it.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

THE STORY OF NATURAL FACTORS

High-Quality, Sustainable

Fish Oils In Alaska’s pristine Prince William Sound, we’re making a huge difference. Our oil refining production plant is only processing sustainable fish, harvested under strict conservation guidelines set by one of the world’s leading ocean stewards: Alaska’s Fish and Game Department. Our process ensures no endangered species are ever used! Our 100% Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil contains the full spectrum of 17 active fatty acids, including omega-5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 – plus the powerful antioxidant astaxanthin and vitamin D.

Those nutrients are doubly protected by our breakthrough Enteripure® softgel technology, which ensures better absorption in your body – and no fishy aftertaste!

With Natural Factors, you can have confidence that you’re buying the cleanest, highest quality omega-3 oils. Why? Our omega-3 oil concentrates are molecularly distilled to remove all impurities while preserving the sensitive nutrients. ISURA® then uses the most sophisticated testing available to screen for over 800 contaminants, including heavy metals, PCBs, glyphosate, and radiation. ISURA’s rigorous testing is guaranteed to meet or exceed the world’s most stringent fish oil standards. And because Natural Factors owns the production facilities, we oversee every aspect of production, from ocean to oil, and from softgel to bottle.

Available exclusively in natural supplement stores. 24

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Regenerlife® Omega-3 Ultra Strength with the Enteripure® Difference

Targeted delivery to the intestines Protects the fish oils from the stomach’s harsh environment No fishy aftertaste or fishy burp Concentrated levels of omega-3s

Revolutionary Enteripure technology infuses 100% natural plant material with enteric properties into the outer softgel for advanced absorption and assimilation.

VERIFIED

CLEAN

NON GMO

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Every purchase

Counts Protect Your Loved Ones and the Earth It’s completely understandable to feel concerned about how major corporations target our children with junk food advertising. Many parents worry about the long-term effects of such marketing tactics, especially on their families’ health. It’s important to advocate for more nutritious choices and practices in our communities. Awareness can lead to change, and every small step makes a difference. The desire to leave a healthy planet for future generations is a noble one.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

One of the most powerful ways for women to create change in this world is to start with their wallets. As a woman, you possess incredible power – enough to make real change by reconsidering how you spend.

Women account for 85% of all purchases worldwide, with spending totalling $31.8 trillion. If you want to see real change, stop buying junk food, fast food, and choose produce that is free of harmful pesticides, plastics, and synthetic chemicals. Demand higher-quality options for your family by supporting local organic farms and preparing healthy snacks at home. Every decision you make today shapes the future for your family and our planet. Embrace the power of conscious choices – it’s not just a responsibility; it’s a gift to your children. Prioritize their health, nurture their well-being, and lead by example. Let’s create a brighter, healthier future together! Join the movement for change, and be the positive influence they need. Your actions matter – let’s make them count!

Clinically

STUDIED HIGHEST

ABSORPTION

Developed and manufactured in Canada, LipoMicel® is a breakthrough in nutrient delivery. It tackles a major supplement problem: poor absorption of oil-based compounds. With conventional formulas, your body struggles to absorb what you swallow – leading to wasted nutrients, wasted money, and extra capsules.

LipoMicel changes that. Its advanced micellar technology transforms hard-to-absorb ingredients into a highly bioavailable form, so your body gets more – with just one capsule. And it’s not just talk. Backed by over 20 human clinical studies, LipoMicel proves that better absorption means you don’t need megadoses. Fewer capsules. Less packaging. Less waste. That’s LipoMicel.

VERIFIED

CLEAN

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

TESTED NON-GMO 27

From a simple seed, planted in the ground with a little water, nutrients from the soil, and a whole lot of energy from the sun, comes the wholesome nutrition that sustains our lives. wholeearthsea.com

Whole Earth & Sea® Farms are certified 100% organic. Our crops are fertilized with compost and nitrogen-rich sea plants, and are meticulously cared for by hand.

Fermented Protein & Greens goes far beyond standard greens and protein products. This innovative, organic greens, superfood formula gives you all the nutrition you need along with 21 g of the cleanest possible, plant-based, VEGAN PROTEINS.

Fermented Greens is the ONLY 100% fermented and 100% organic greens formula. This exceptional non-GMO, vegan-friendly, green superfood formula provides 6 g of quality fermented plant protein in every serving, along with fermented grasses, fruits, vegetables, and micronized medicinal mushrooms to support an active, healthy, and sustainable lifestyle.

Hands in the Dirt...

Hearts at W rk

It all began with a simple idea 10 years ago – give children the chance to plant a seed, watch it grow, and discover that they, too, can shape the world around them. Today, that small beginning has blossomed into a nationwide movement touching hundreds of thousands of young lives in classrooms and communities across Canada.

A visionary seed On July 1, 2015, Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation® (PAS Foundation) became a federally registered charity, turning one man’s childhood experience into a living vision. PAS is rooted in the belief that children are our future, and just as one seed can transform a landscape, so too one child can help change the world. Thus, PAS Foundation set out to create meaningful ways for young people to be inspired and experience the wonder of nature – and learn to change their world. Over the past decade, our mission has grown into a rich tapestry of programs in classrooms, libraries, daycares, gardens, farms, and homes across the country.

Growing a classroom movement At the heart of this movement are three core educational programs inspired by two storybooks, authored by Roland Gahler, Plant a Seed & See What Grows and What to Do with What You Grew.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

These educational programs turn stories into action as children read, reflect, plant, and nurture living things. The scale of this impact is remarkable. PAS Foundation’s programs have reached more than 600,000 children in every corner of Canada, in over 8,500 schools, public libraries, and daycare centres. More than 500,000 storybooks, workbooks, and colouring books, along with over 81,000 seed packets, have been distributed free of charge, giving every child a tangible way to participate in the learning journey.

Hands in the dirt… Hearts at work

Testimonials from educators “The Seeds of Inspiration materials arrived at the perfect time for our spring science unit. The students were absolutely thrilled to have their own seeds to plant and workbooks to track growth. We’ve integrated the program into our math curriculum as well, measuring plant heights and creating graphs.”

Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation’s programs are powered by one simple insight: children learn best when they can touch, see, smell, and experience the world for themselves. Through these programs, students plant seeds, track growth in their workbooks, and integrate what they see in the soil with what they learn in science, math, and language arts. Teachers praise these materials as engaging, curriculum-aligned, and especially valuable for diverse and bilingual classrooms.

“Hands in the dirt” is more than a phrase – it is the heart of the experience. Children learn where their food comes from, how plants grow, and how their own care and patience can bring something to life. In the process, they build not only knowledge but confidence, curiosity, and a sense of responsibility for the Earth and their communities. As observed by Roland Gahler, PAS Foundation’s primary benefactor, “...each planted seed becomes a quiet lesson in hope and inspiration, and even small actions, done with care, can grow into something extraordinary… even visionary.”

– Tarrell H., Deerfield Colony School, Magrath, AB

“It was great to see the excitement on their faces as they walked in daily to check on their plants. The program couldn’t be named more appropriately as it is truly an inspiring learning experience for all of us. The books and illustrations were helpful and explained the growth in a simple manner. Thank you.” – Sunaina M., Clark Boulevard Public School, Brampton, ON

“This year marks our third participation in Seeds of Inspiration, and each time the program becomes more integral to our teaching. The bilingual materials are exceptionally valuable for our diverse student population.” – Jessica C., Stoney Creek Community School, Burnaby, BC

600,000+

500,000+

kids in every corner of Canada

storybooks, workbooks, and colouring books distributed free of charge

8,500+

88,000+

schools, public libraries, and daycare centres

seed packets distributed

and educational 88 inspiring videos produced

and 71 school community gardens

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Gardens that change lives Beyond the classroom, PAS Foundation’s garden-granting program – Create a Garden: Inspire a Generation – has transformed bare patches of ground into vibrant hubs of learning and connection. Funding has been provided to over 70 schools and community gardens, each one a living classroom where children plant, nurture, and harvest their own food. These gardens become places where students learn about nutrition, sustainability, teamwork, compassion, and problem-solving, all while experiencing the joy of tasting what they have grown themselves. For example, a garden grant to The Berry Family Childcare Centre and Dorothy Lynas Elementary School helped create a community garden that unites elders, families, and children in shared work and shared wonder. Children explore soil, seeds, and biodiversity, harvest peas and lettuce, join the Garden Guardians program, and participate in events like Garden Open Days that build pride and a sense of belonging. As noted by Betsy Puff, PAS Foundation’s garden program coordinator, “...the garden becomes more than a learning space – it becomes a place where they feel seen, capable, and connected.”

Learning beyond the classroom walls Our Outdoor Learning Experiences program takes children out to farms and other natural spaces, turning fields and barnyards into classrooms. A single farm visit can be transformative for a child who has never stood in a vegetable field or held rich soil in their hands. It takes them through the seed-to-table journey, weaving science, health, and excitement into one unforgettable day.

Kids’ Corner – A safe place to explore and learn At the same time, the Foundation’s Kids Corner online hub keeps younger children engaged with nature from their homes and classrooms. The video series, such as Become an Explorer and Inquiring Minds, Inspiring Finds, introduces kids to birds, whales, bees, bugs, and plants, as well as provides inspiration from young changemakers around the world, pairing inspiring stories with interactive activities and creative drawing lessons like Drawing with Brady. There are over 32

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

88 inspiring digital resources that help ensure that even when children cannot be in a garden or on a farm, they can still explore and dream.

Inspiring future changemakers What about older students? Through education bursaries, we assist undergraduates in botanical, agricultural, and health sciences to pursue their studies. These future changemakers will shape more sustainable food systems, work to address food insecurity, and rethink how food is grown and shared with the goal of building healthier communities.

Beyond the numbers Each of the above statistics represents a child whose curiosity has been sparked, a teacher who feels more supported, a family that has grown closer over a shared garden bed, or a community that has found new reasons to gather, learn, and care for one another. PAS Foundation has become a trusted partner to educators whose budgets are stretched thin, providing free resources and free shipping so that learning opportunities do not depend on a teacher’s personal finances.

Each action – each seed of generosity – helps ensure that more children will have the chance to plant, grow, and discover their own power to make a difference.

Join the movement! Become a Friend of the Foundation There are many ways to get involved. • Become a Friend of the Foundation • Make a donation that helps bring educational resources to a school or library near you

Help something beautiful grow Guided by a committed board, a small but dedicated team, and a growing network of supporters and volunteers, the PAS Foundation is ready for the next chapter of growth, gratitude, and inspiration. At the heart of this future lies a powerful belief: what we plant today in hearts, minds, and soil will shape the world our children inherit tomorrow. Your support of the PAS Foundation is not just about giving; it is about investing in children’s curiosity, teachers’ resilience, and communities’ capacity to grow together.

Mark Y ur

Calendars! April 22, 2026

Celebrate Our Beautiful Green Earth Live-stream art class

Every gift helps place storybooks, workbooks, and seed packets into classrooms; funds new school gardens; supports bursaries for emerging leaders; and brings more children to farms and outdoor learning spaces.

Plant a Seed is thrilled to celebrate our beautiful green Earth by hosting a live-stream event featuring Brady Wiser, a children’s art educator. Kids will dive right into nature and learn to draw and create with Brady – right in their classrooms.

Art contest Primary grade students are invited to submit their artwork that captures their unique view of our beautiful planet Earth and where they fit in.

The top 20 winning classrooms will win a microgrant to kick-start or boost their school garden! Get your kids, grandkids, nieces, and nephews involved! Visit seewhatgrows.org to learn more.

Our Beautiful Green Earth – A Jewel in the Universe Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation warmly invites you to stand alongside the educators, families, donors, and volunteers who have brought this dream to life. Together, with one seed and one child at a time, we can grow a greener, kinder, and more hopeful world.

Roland Gahler’s third children’s book, Our Beautiful Green Earth – A Jewel in the Universe, has just been released. It is now available to Canadian schools in English and French at no charge.

Wr itt en

by Ro lan

d Ga hle

This beautifully illustrated, four-colour storybook introduces children to the wonders of planet Earth, and how it is embedded in the awe-inspiring universe of galaxies. To learn more, schools, public libraries, and daycares can visit seewhatgrows.org WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

A Few Earth

SUPER-

HEROES Past, Present, and Future RACHEL CARSON

Carson eloquently argued that human health is closely linked to the planet’s wellbeing, urging society to consider the impacts of environmental harm.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

is a monumental figure in environmental activism, earning her a top spot on our list. Known for her groundbreaking work, especially her book Silent Spring, she exposed the harmful effects of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and sounded the alarm about its widespread use. Carson’s compelling storytelling not only revealed the risks of chemical pesticides, but it also sparked an entire movement that eventually led to the banning of DDT in the United States. Her passionate advocacy makes her a true champion of the Earth, highlighting the deep connection between humanity and nature. Through her timeless work, she inspired generations to see their responsibility to protect and preserve the fragile balance of our ecosystem. Her legacy continues to have a strong influence on today’s environmental discussions.

Our climate crisis isn’t just a one-generation issue. We all walk this planet and have an opportunity to make the world a better place every single day. – Rachel Parent

YVON CHOUINARD’S name is far less known than that of his company, Patagonia. He’s a man who didn’t set his cap on a business career; far from it. He was a surfer and mountain climber who found a niche in creating clothing and gear for people who love spending time in the outdoors. In 2022, Chouinard, the visionary founder of Patagonia, made waves by transferring ownership of his $3 billion company to a trust and a nonprofit organization.

This bold move ensures that all future profits – approximately $100 million annually – will be directed toward combating climate change and preserving our planet, rather than being reinvested in the business or distributed to shareholders. By doing so, Chouinard has made the Earth his most important stakeholder, underscoring his unwavering dedication to environmentalism over personal wealth.

Fundamentally, businesses are responsible to their resource base. Without a healthy environment, there are no shareholders, no employees, no customers, and no business. In nature, nothing exists alone.

– Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia

– Rachel Carson

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make. – Jane Goodall JANE GOODALL The late Jane Goodall first gained recognition for her passionate and empathetic advocacy for primates and primate research. Over the decades, she demonstrated that the chimpanzees she studied in Tanzania share many traits with humans, including the ability to use tools, experience complex emotions, form lasting social bonds, engage in organized warfare, and pass

down knowledge from one generation to the next. Goodall then expanded her platform and leveraged her popularity to encourage global activism and sustainable living, making her an inspirational household name. One of her many messages of advice to world citizens is to connect with nature, reduce consumption, and adopt a plant-based diet.

DAVID ATTENBOROUGH When you hear someone speak of David Attenborough, it’s likely you also hear his familiar voice as a television narrator, having helmed many natural history documentaries dating back to 1954. As the National Public Radio (NPR) once said of the man, Attenborough has “roamed the globe and shared his discoveries and enthusiasms” in “his patented semi-whisper.” However, at nearly 100 years of age, the focus of his work is increasingly environmental – supporting planetary biodiversity, limiting population growth, developing renewable sources of energy, mitigating climate change, reducing meat consumption, and preserving more of the world’s remaining natural areas.

What humans do over the next 50 years will determine the fate of all life on the planet. – David Attenborough 36

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

ALICE WATERS Chef Alice Waters has been an environmental hero since founding Chez Panisse in Berkeley, California, one of the original farm-to-table restaurants, helping to start a movement in 1971. She has been a champion of local, sustainable agriculture for over five decades. Her accolades and awards are too numerous to mention, but a few notable ones are listed below. In 1995, she founded The Edible Schoolyard Project, which advocates for a free, regenerative, and organic school lunch for all children, as well as a sustainable food curriculum in every public school. In 2015, she was awarded the National Humanities Medal by President Obama, demonstrating that eating is a political act and that the table is a powerful means of advancing social justice and positive change. Waters is the author of 16 books, including New York Times bestsellers The Art of Simple Food I & II, Edible Schoolyard: A Universal Idea, and a memoir, Coming to My Senses: The Making of a Counterculture Cook. Her newest book is We Are What We Eat: A Slow Food Manifesto.

I think America’s food culture is embedded in fast-food culture. And the real question that we have is: How are we going to teach slow-food values in a fast-food world? Of course, it’s very, very difficult to do, especially when children have grown up eating fast food and the values that go with that. – Alice Waters

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Future Earth SUPERHEROES RACHEL PARENT is an environmental and safe food activist and speaker. Her passions include social justice, animal rights, responsible food consumption, and environmental protection. For the past 15 years, she has been a strong advocate for mandatory labelling of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in our food, improving food system transparency, and increasing environmental protections. At age 12, Parent founded Kids Right to Know, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to educating youth about food safety and healthier food choices, challenging them to claim their right to know what’s in their food, and demanding GMO labelling in Canada.

Young people are growing up in the shadow of climate change (or as I often call it, climate pollution)… [and] we all have a part to play in the solutions as well. – Rachel Parent

AUBE GIROUX is a documentary filmmaker, writer, and passionate organic gardener whose work centres on social justice and environmental sustainability. Her award-winning feature documentary Modified follows Giroux and her mother on a deeply personal investigation into why corporate interests are often placed above human wellbeing in our food policies. The film received numerous honours, including the 2019 James Beard Award for Best Documentary. Her popular farm-to-table cooking series on PBS, Kitchen Vignettes, connects the dots between good land stewardship and the recipes we make in our kitchens. The series received Saveur Magazine’s 2012 Best Food Blog Award and is a two-time James Beard Award nominee.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

The struggles for social justice, a healthy planet, and good food for all are inseparable – each depends on putting people before profit. – Aube Giroux

We Grow & Work with Our

Hands

Why is such care given to our farms? Because we believe the Earth is perfectly designed, full of biodiversity and regenerative power.

Our love of what makes the Earth so beautiful is in the seed we start with. It takes commitment to responsible stewardship, sustainable farming practices, and the cultivation of the biodiversity around us. To do all that, we grow and work with our hands.

More than simply organic, our farms utilize extremely delicate growing methods that promote the greatest biodiversity, including insects, birds, and even amphibians. Our farms are where we hand-fertilize each of our crops with compost and nitrogen-rich sea plants, and tend to our crops by hand.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Wonderful Whole Earth & Sea Every Whole Earth & Sea formula contains meaningful amounts of each vitamin, mineral, and phytonutrient. Each tablet includes Farm Fresh Factors®, sourced from fresh, raw plants, whole sea vegetables, cruciferous sprouts, fruits, and herbs, many of which are grown

VERIFIED

CLEAN

TESTED NON-GMO

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

on regenerative, certified organic Whole Earth & Sea Farms. Proprietary EnviroSimplex® processing keeps the temperature below 48 °C (118 °F), resulting in raw nutrition that captures all the vibrant energy and goodness of nature.

The ISURA seal is your assurance that the product is independently verified as clean and safe, and has been tested for over 800 possible contaminants. ISURA’s rigorous testing includes hundreds of quality procedures using state-of-the-art technology. It provides you with the confidence that the product is ISURA verified clean, one of the highest testing standards in the world.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Whole Earth & Sea Farms During the spring, countless tiny black tadpoles undergo a transformation into small froglets.

Bob and Doc – two of our “gentle giants”

THE HORSES – Using our resources to buy horses Our horses contribute to the preservation of our beautiful Earth by promoting biodiversity, reducing carbon emissions, controlling weeds, and improving soil fertility.

As the ground heats up, these froglets leave the pond nurseries, and literally cover the farm, maturing and serving as an invaluable part of our “pest control” team. THE BIRDS – Air control There are dozens of bird species nesting in and around our farms. The allocation of wild areas and corridors around the

THE FROGS – Ground control Frogs are permanent residents on our farm, and to benefit them, we have dug several ponds along the length of the farm close to the creek.

creek assures safe nesting grounds for many bird species. As part of the living, diverse farm ecosystem, they also form a unique airborne pest control crew. Among the unique and

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

interesting bird species making our farms their home is the Cliff Swallow. This species nests in huge colonies on our farm, mainly under bridges, which provide safe and permanent nesting areas. THE POLLINATORS Our regenerative, bio-protective farming practices also encourage the healthy population of natural pollinators (butterflies, bees, beetles, bumblebees, flies, hummingbirds, and some others), whose powerful pollination activity leads to increased yields of cultivated crops and improved biodiversity of the wild species present.

SUPPLEMENT SMARTS

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO

Dos Don'ts &

BY KATE RHÉAUME, ND

CONGRATULATIONS ON TAKING THE EXCITING STEP TO INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE HEALTH AND ADD NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS TO YOUR ROUTINE – FANTASTIC! BUT NOW YOU MIGHT BE WONDERING: DOES IT MATTER WHAT TIME OF DAY I TAKE THEM? WITH OR WITHOUT FOOD? ARE THERE ANY THAT I SHOULDN’T TAKE TOGETHER? You’re not alone. Questions around when and how to take supplements are common. Let’s break it down so you can optimize your routine and get the most out of every capsule, chewable, or powder.

PAIR FAT-SOLUBLE NUTRIENTS WITH FOOD Vitamins A, D, E, K2, and coenzyme Q10 all need fat for proper absorption. Taking them with a meal that contains healthy fats helps your body unlock their full benefits. It’s an ideal time to take your omega-3 supplements, too. This rule also applies to multivitamins, as most multis contain some fat-soluble nutrients. Take these earlier in the day if they give you an energy boost.

Don't

TAKE EVERYTHING ALL AT ONCE It seems efficient, but some nutrients compete for absorption, especially in high amounts. For example:

o Iron and calcium block each other.

Take stand-alone doses of these two hours apart. Having small amounts of both in a multivitamin is not a problem.

o Zinc and copper can interfere

with each other unless balanced in a formula.

o Calcium in high doses may

o Vitamin D + K2: Work in harmony

hinder absorption of carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, lutein, and astaxanthin from food or supplements.

for bone and heart health.

o Vitamin C + iron: Vitamin C boosts iron absorption.

o Omega-3s (fish oil) + curcumin:

An anti-inflammatory duo.

KNOW WHICH NUTRIENTS PREFER AN EMPTY STOMACH Some supplements absorb best when taken alone:

o Magnesium + B6: Tag team to help

ease symptoms of hormonal swings.

Don't

o Iron – especially if your levels are

low. If iron causes nausea, which is common, take it with a small snack.

o B complex vitamins – can go either way, but often work better when used individually.

FORGET TO CHECK FOR MEDICATION INTERACTIONS This matters, as some supplements can interact with prescription medications when taken simultaneously. For example:

o Amino acids and certain herbs,

o Iron, calcium, and magnesium can

Don't

o St. John’s wort can affect

interfere with thyroid medication.

such as berberine.

MIX SUPPLEMENTS WITH COFFEE OR TEA Your morning latte might sabotage your routine. Caffeine and polyphenols (found in black tea, green tea, and coffee) can hinder absorption of iron, calcium, magnesium, B vitamins, and vitamin D. Take these an hour before or after your java jolt. Yes, collagen in your coffee is fine.

TAKE MAGNESIUM IN THE EVENING Many women find that magnesium, especially bisglycinate, decreases nighttime tension and supports better sleep. Evening dosing also helps reduce interference with other minerals and medications you may take during the day.

COMBINE NUTRIENTS THAT COMPLEMENT ONE ANOTHER Some nutrients work better together, enhancing each other’s absorption and effectiveness. Smart pairings can elevate your supplement routine, such as:

antidepressants and birth control.

o Iron can reduce the effectiveness of some antibiotics.

o Probiotics should be taken

2–3 hours away from antibiotics.

A short conversation with your pharmacist can prevent interactions and clarify timing.

BE CONSISTENT

Most nutrients are most effective when taken daily rather than sporadically. Keep your supplements somewhere visible or set a reminder on your phone. Supplement success is about taking them smartly. When you understand which nutrients pair well with meals, which ones need space, and how timing can enhance (or hinder) absorption, you set yourself up for better energy, stronger immunity, and more radiant health.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Choose Organic A Healthier Planet Starts on Your Plate BY KARLENE KARST, BSc NUTRITION

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

grow food, such as crop rotation, composting, beneficial insects, and healthy soil ecosystems.

Organic food is more than a label – it is a commitment to how our food is grown, how our land is treated, and ultimately, how we nourish our families. I recently watched a video that stated that organically grown carrots should proudly bear the name “carrots,” showcasing their pure, wholesome essence. In stark contrast, nonorganic carrots should be labelled “chemical carrots,” highlighting the reality of what many unknowingly eat. As consumers, we are at a critical moment, having drifted far from fully grasping the urgency of how we grow our food and what we put on our tables for our loved ones. It is not just about nutrition; it’s about the integrity of our choices and the well-being of our families. Please buy organic when you can, and

demand clarity in food labels, because the health of our families and the future of our planet depend on it. As a nutritionist and a mother of three, I choose organic whenever possible, not out of perfectionism, but out of intention. It is about making informed choices that support health, sustainability, and long-term well-being.

organic really mean? What does

Organic food is produced according to strict standards that prioritize soil health, biodiversity, animal welfare, and the avoidance of synthetic chemicals. Certified organic farming prohibits the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), artificial fertilizers, sewage sludge, and irradiation. Instead, organic farmers rely on natural methods to

For animal products, organic standards require animals to have access to the outdoors, be fed organic feed, and never be administered routine antibiotics or growth hormones. These practices don’t just affect the animals, but they also influence the nutritional quality of the food on our plates.

Why organic food matters for health From a nutrition perspective, one of the most compelling reasons to choose organic is reduced exposure to pesticide residues. Many conventional crops, especially fruits and vegetables, can carry traces of pesticides designed to control pests; however, these pesticides may disrupt human hormones, gut health, and neurological development over time. Children are particularly vulnerable. Their bodies are smaller, their detoxification systems are still developing, and they consume more food per pound of body weight than adults. As a mom, that matters deeply to me.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

We must awaken to the truth and advocate for transparency in our food systems, ensuring that every bite nourishes both body and soul.

Research consistently shows that organic foods have significantly lower pesticide residues and, in some cases, higher levels of antioxidants and phytonutrients, which are plant compounds linked to reduced inflammation and a lower risk of chronic disease. While organic food isn’t automatically “nutrient perfect,” it often aligns with cleaner inputs and healthier growing conditions, which I believe supports overall vitality. It is also about what is not in children’s food: chemicals, unnecessary hormones, and genetically modified ingredients.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

When my kids sit down at the table, I want food to nourish them, not burden their bodies with compounds they don’t need. I’m realistic: we don’t eat organic 100% of the time. However, we prioritize it where it matters most, especially in produce, dairy, eggs, and foods we eat frequently. Organic is not about guilt or food fear; it’s about stacking the odds in favour of health.

How to find organic food Organic food is more accessible than ever. You can find it at

farmers’ markets, health food stores, major grocery chains, and even online. Start with wholefoods – fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, dairy, and eggs – before worrying about packaged products. If budget is a concern, focus on buying organic versions of foods that are most likely to carry pesticide residues, often referred to as the “Dirty Dozen” (like strawberries, spinach, apples, and grapes). For foods with thicker skins or lower residue levels, conventional options may be a reasonable choice.

What certification to look for Certification matters. In Canada, look for the “Canada Organic” logo, which confirms that the product meets national organic standards and has been verified by an accredited certifying body. In the U.S., the “USDA Organic” seal serves the same purpose. Be cautious with terms like “natural,” “eco-friendly,” or “farm fresh.” These are marketing terms, not regulated certifications. “Organic” is legally protected – if it is on the label, then it must meet strict criteria.

For packaged foods, “100% organic” or “organic” (at least 95% organic ingredients) are the gold standards. “Made with organic ingredients” means the product contains some organic content, but not entirely.

Beyond the plate: Supporting the bigger picture Buying organic supports farmers who are stewards of the land. It encourages farming practices that protect soil, water, pollinators, and future food systems. For me,

organic food is about legacy – the kind of world we are feeding our children into. At its core, organic is about trust – trust in how food is grown, trust in transparency, and trust that what we put into our bodies aligns with our values.

Organic food isn’t a trend – it’s a return to thoughtful, mindful nourishment. And as a mother and nutritionist, that’s a choice I’ll continue to make, one meal at a time.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

New ERA

FOR

Multivitamins THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE COMEBACK BY KATE RHÉAUME, ND

IF YOU GREW UP WATCHING YOUR PARENTS TAKE THOSE BRIGHT ORANGE, ONE-PER-DAY TABLETS, YOU MIGHT ASSUME MULTIVITAMINS ARE A RELIC OF THE PAST – CHALKY, GENERIC, AND UNNECESSARY.

health, and detoxification – the list is long. Even with an intentional diet, it’s surprisingly easy to miss the mark on essential nutrients.

But today’s multivitamins have evolved. Backed by new research, designed with bioavailability in mind, and crafted to meet individual needs, modern multis are experiencing a renaissance. And for people seeking vibrant health, energy, and long-term wellness, a well-chosen multivitamin can be an invaluable daily ally.

Recent findings even suggest multis may do more than fill gaps – they may support healthy aging.

Why multivitamins matter Vitamins and minerals remain the foundation of countless physiological processes. They support immune resilience, energy production, hormone balance, metabolism, mood balance, bone 48

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Busy schedules, stress, medications, digestive issues, and the decline in nutrients in modern soil all contribute to gaps in our daily intake. That’s where multivitamins shine: they help bridge those nutritional shortfalls, so your body has the raw materials it needs to function at its best.

Research presented at the 2025 American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions provided the first evidence from a large-scale, long-term, randomized controlled trial that multivitamin and mineral supplementation may slow biological aging in older adults, with the most significant benefits observed in those aging faster than expected. While more research is needed, this is a promising step in understanding how daily nutrient support can influence longevity.

Not your parents’ multivitamin

recovery with specialized doses of folate, choline, DHA, and iodine.

Modern formulations bear little resemblance to the simple one-per-day tablets of decades past. Today’s multis are built with intention: cleaner ingredients, innovative delivery systems, plant-based nutrient sources, and thoughtful combinations tailored to specific life stages and biological needs.

While shopping for a multivitamin, it’s worth looking beyond the nutrition panel. The best formulas aren’t just a checklist of vitamins – they’re curated blends designed to work harmoniously with the body. Some newer multis, for example, incorporate features such as: Wholefood-based nutrients, which pair vitamins and minerals with the natural cofactors found in plants, supporting absorption and gentle digestion. Organic, sustainably grown plant ingredients that reflect a commitment to purity and environmental responsibility. Bioavailable forms of nutrients, such as methylcobalamin (B12), methylfolate, and chelated minerals, which are easier for the body to utilize. Additional botanical support, like antioxidant-rich herbs or adaptogens, to complement daily wellness. When comparing multivitamins, consider the following: Quality and transparency: Look for brands that use clean, high-quality ingredients and publish their testing standards. Third-party verification is a plus. Bioavailability: Choose formulas with well-absorbed nutrient forms and, when possible, food-based or plant-derived complexes. Life stage and gender: Select a version tailored to your age and biological needs – nutrient

QUALITY-CONSCIOUS BRANDS rely on science-backed formulations, prioritizing nutrients that your body can absorb and use easily – think methylated B vitamins, mineral chelates, and food-based complexes. Many companies now take a clean-label approach, avoiding unnecessary fillers, artificial colours, and synthetic preservatives. One of the most exciting shifts in the world of supplementation is personalization. Manufacturers now design formulas based on fundamental nutritional differences between: Women under 50, who often need more B vitamins, iron, and antioxidants to support energy, metabolism, and hormone balance. Women over 50, whose needs shift toward less iron, more calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin K2 for bone health, as well as nutrients supporting cognition and cardiovascular function. Men, whose nutrient requirements differ from women’s, especially in terms of iron and antioxidants. Prenatal and postnatal multis, which support fertility, fetal development, and postpartum

requirements change more than you think. Digestive comfort: If you’ve had trouble tolerating multis in the past, look for gentle, plant-forward formulas with wholefood blends that are easier on the stomach. Values that matter to you: Organic sourcing, eco-friendly packaging, sustainable farming practices, and non-GMO ingredients may be important considerations. With emerging evidence suggesting a potential role in slowing biological aging, consider taking a daily multivitamin as a thoughtful gesture to your future self. When paired with a balanced diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management, a highquality multivitamin can be one of the simplest and most effective ways to invest in your long-term wellness.

Today’s multivitamins aren’t about “just in case” nutrition – they’re a targeted tool for supporting energy, immunity, hormone balance, healthy aging, and everyday vitality. WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Wonderful

Whole Earth & Sea

Multivitamins & Minerals

Our Whole Earth & Sea® Farms are regenerative, certified organic, and ABOV verified. Our Men’s and Women’s multivitamins are carefully formulated to address the different nutritional needs of men and women.

VERIFIED

CLEAN

TESTED NON-GMO

Verified

Agriculture Beyond Organic Verification

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

At Whole Earth & Sea, we source fresh greens and vegetables from our regenerative, certified organic, ABOV verified farms. Harvested at peak freshness and immediately raw-processed into concentrated phytonutrient blends using our EnviroSimplex® method, these ingredients are gently converted under vacuum into a dry, shelf-stable form, retaining essential biogenic minerals, enzymes, and nutrients. These farm-fresh concentrates are then crafted into every Whole Earth & Sea multivitamin capsule and tablet.

NEW Vegetarian Capsules

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

FROM

SILENT TO

LIVING

Rachel Carson’s impact on regenerative farming BY AUBE GIROUX

The most alarming of all man’s assaults upon the environment is the contamination of air, earth, rivers, and sea with dangerous and even lethal materials.

– RACHEL CARSON, Silent Spring

The year is 1962. The Beatles just released their first single, the Cuban Missile Crisis shook the world, and the first American orbited the Earth. In the same year, amid the heyday of the chemical and pesticide era, Rachel Carson published Silent Spring, a book that would spark the modern environmental movement. The book awakened the world to the dangers of pesticides, and revealed how deeply the way we farm is connected to our health and the future of the planet. Today, as pesticide use continues to rise around the world, Carson’s work is as urgent and relevant as ever.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Carson was born in 1907 on a small farm in Pennsylvania. Her mother instilled in her a deep love of nature, which eventually led Carson to become a marine biologist and science writer at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, at a time when very few women entered the scientific profession. She was a gifted writer who believed that science should serve people, not corporations. While researching and writing Silent Spring, Carson battled an aggressive cancer. Despite the pain and fatigue she endured, her dedication never wavered. She famously told friends who urged her to rest that “the Earth can’t wait.”

SPRING After the publication of Silent Spring, the chemical industry attempted to discredit Carson, dismissing her as a “hysterical spinster” whose concerns were typical of “emotional women in garden clubs.” They even mocked her concern for children because she had no children of her own. “She was a fanatic defender of the cult of the balance of nature,” stated Dr. Robert White-Stevens, a former biochemist and assistant director of the Agricultural Research Division of American Cyanamid. As a spokesman for the chemical industry during the 1960s, White-Stevens told the public, “If man were to follow the teachings of Miss Carson, we would return to

the Dark Ages, and the insects and diseases and vermin would once again inherit the earth.” But science would soon prove that Rachel Carson was right all along. Silent Spring appeared during a period of blind faith in chemicals. For the first time, a book explained to the general public that pesticides used on farms do not simply “disappear” after being sprayed, but instead contaminate soil, air, water, food – and even our own bodies. Carson warned that pesticides were poisoning insects and birds by accumulating up the food chain, and would lead us to a silent future in which birdsongs would vanish. Indeed, since the 1970s, songbird populations

have plummeted by around 29%. Carson showed that when corporate profit is prioritized over health, it is children, farm workers, communities, and entire ecosystems that pay the price. Carson died just two years after her book’s publication, at the age of 56. Yet, her legacy lives on through the farreaching impacts of her work, including the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the nationwide ban on dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) in 1972, and the rise of environmental and sustainable agriculture movements.

Carson taught us to question a system that poisons our bodies and our planet in the name of progress. Regenerative farming answers that question by putting life back at the centre of how our food is grown. WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Regenerative agriculture is a method of producing food that is rooted in Indigenous knowledge and millennia-old farming practices that recognize the interconnectedness of soil, water, plants, animals, and people. It restores, rather than depletes, the living systems on which we depend. At its heart is the principle that soil is alive – and that when we care for it, it cares for us in return. Instead of relentlessly extracting from the land, regenerative farming helps heal ecosystems by building organic matter in the soil through crop diversity and rotation, cover cropping, and reduced chemical use.

Regenerative farming is a holistic solution to many of today’s interconnected crises, including climate change, poverty, food insecurity, and biodiversity loss. For example, regenerative practices pull excess carbon from the atmosphere, and foster healthier soils that are able to hold more water, making communities more resilient to droughts, floods, and erosion. Food grown in biologically rich soil tends to be more nutrient-dense and requires fewer synthetic chemicals, reducing toxic exposure for farmworkers, nearby communities, and families. Regenerative farms also strengthen rural economies by prioritizing long-term fertility over short-term yield, helping farmers stay on the land in a sustainable way.

Food is one of the most intimate ways that we interact with the land around us. By supporting farmers who rebuild soil and ecosystems, we all have the power to help shape a healthier planet. Carson reminded the world that “in nature nothing exists alone.” Ultimately, regenerative agriculture reconnects food with care – honouring the idea that she championed: that human health and the health of the Earth are inseparable.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

At a time when environmental safeguards are being rolled back and industries are increasingly trusted to police themselves, regenerative agriculture takes on new urgency. When environmental regulations are weakened, pollution intensifies, entering the air, water, and food systems, as Carson warned. While regenerative farming does not replace the need for strong environmental policies and collective action, it does put power directly into the hands of farmers and communities. In uncertain times, regenerative agriculture can become a quiet form of resistance – one that safeguards health, soil, and future generations by placing people over profit.

Aube Giroux is an award-winning filmmaker and video producer whose work explores the intersections of food, politics, and climate justice. Her documentary film Modified is available to watch at modifiedthefilm.com, and you can follow her on Instagram @kitchenvignettes.

A beautiful thought

Tracy Mazuer • treeshavefeelings.com WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

WOW! KOOPE WON – out of 1,000+ submissions BEST Moisturizer for Oily Skin: Koope Lightweight Moisturizer

At the 2025

Beauty Awards Canada – powered by Chatelaine, HELLO! Canada, and FASHION – KOOPE beat out over 1,000 entries to win two major awards.

“This cleanser is truly exceptional. I was blown away by how hydrated my skin felt after using it.” — Beauty Awards Canada Judge

BEST Cleanser for Dry Skin: Koope Milk Cleanser

Europe’s clean skincare phenomenon is now in Canada

None of the nasty stuff Europe bans more than 1,600 toxic ingredients – many of which are still allowed in the USA and Canada. Koope products are formulated in Europe and follow their golden standard of “clean.”

GEL CLEANSER

For a deep but gentle cleanse • Lightweight deep cleansing • Soothes and softens • Gentle and non-sensitizing

MILK CLEANSER

For a creamy, nourishing cleanse • Ultra-rich texture • Smooth and creamy • Softens and nourishes

• Sensitive-skin-friendly: Koope excludes 36 common sensitizers and is fragrance-free • PETA-approved vegan and cruelty-free • Cause-driven: For every product sold, a donation is made to anti-sex-trafficking initiatives

LIGHTWEIGHT MOISTURIZER

HEAVYWEIGHT MOISTURIZER

For light, sheer hydration • Sheer, long-lasting hydration • Helps protect the skin’s barrier • Reduces shine and sensitivity

Intense hydration without feeling heavy • Deep hydration that lasts all day and night • Strengthens the skin’s barrier and fights free radicals • Helps boost elastin and hyaluronic acid production

MIDDLEWEIGHT MOISTURIZER Balanced, protective, all-day hydration • Long-lasting, balanced hydration • Environmental protection • Helps with signs of an unbalanced microbiome

WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL MY LIFE!

ABSORBS GREAT AND LASTS ALL DAY

LOVE

SERIOUSLY one of the BEST face washes I’ve ever owned!!! It cleans my face so well and deeply without leaving it feeling irritated or dry!

This moisturizer is great, it absorbs well and doesn’t leave a film or make my makeup on top blotchy. Will definitely buy again.

Clean ingredients are most important, but this product delivers beyond just that. I feel it’s nourishing as well as priced really well. I’m a fan!

Jessica D.

Kristen S.

Tatjana L.

STAYING BY STEPHANIE RUBINO, ND

REVERSING COLLAGEN LOSS DURING MENOPAUSE

Estrogen and collagen are a dynamic duo, with estrogen fuelling the collagen factory. But when estrogen levels drop during menopause, collagen production slows. Here is what this means and how you can embrace the changes ahead. UNDERSTANDING COLLAGEN

THE ESTROGEN-COLLAGEN LINK

COLLAGEN CARE SOLUTIONS

The buzz about collagen continues, and rightfully so. As the “glue” that holds the body together, collagen forms the supportive network that binds key components, such as elastin, hyaluronic acid, and minerals. Connective tissues, including our skin, nails, joints, and bones, rely on this protein for structure and support.

Estrogen, a key reproductive hormone, also facilitates collagen production. For example, estrogen supports skin health by binding to fibroblasts and stimulating their activity. Estrogen also decreases collagen breakdown, acts as an antioxidant, and protects against UV damage and photoaging. Beyond skin health, estrogen increases the activity of bone-building cells to maintain bone mineral density and reduces cartilage destruction and inflammatory markers for joint support.

A collagen-promoting diet and lifestyle help defend against collagen changes.

Collagen is produced throughout life by specialized cells called fibroblasts. Here’s a surprising fact: fibroblasts start to become less active in our early twenties! This results in a reduction of approximately 1% in collagen production each year; a natural decline that is accelerated by lifestyle and environmental factors, including: | Poor nutrition | Smoking and alcohol use | Sun exposure | Chronic stress | Sleep deprivation | Inflammation and oxidative stress

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Around age 30–35, estrogen levels start to decline, marking the onset of perimenopause. This hormonal shift leads to reduced collagen and elastin production, and over time, affects the structure and function of the body’s connective tissues. For example, up to 30% of skin collagen is lost within the first five years after menopause, resulting in thinner skin, decreased elasticity, increased wrinkles, and dryness. The skeletal matrix also shrinks, resulting in a 10% decrease in bone mineral density, increasing fracture and osteoporosis risks, especially in older and postmenopausal individuals.

FOCUS ON: | Protein (eggs, lean meats,

supplements): Rich in the amino acids needed to build collagen. | Colourful fruits and vegetables

(berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens): Packed with antioxidants and trace minerals like zinc and copper, vital for collagen synthesis. | Fish and fish oil supplements

(salmon, anchovies, sardines): High in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation that contributes to collagen breakdown. | Reducing sugar: Advanced

glycation end products (AGEs) are formed when sugar binds to collagen and elastin, damaging these proteins. | Lifestyle factors: Minimize

sun exposure, manage stress, prioritize sleep, and avoid alcohol and smoking.

Specific nutrients promote collagen production and connective tissue integrity: | Collagen peptides: Collagen, in its whole

form, is difficult for the body to absorb. Hydrolyzed collagen, broken into smaller amino acid chains known as BIOACTIVE COLLAGEN PEPTIDES™ (BCPs), helps improve its absorption and utilization in the body. Skin fibroblasts recognize BCPs, boosting their activity and collagen production. At dosages ranging from 2.5 g to 10 g daily, BCPs support smooth, hydrated skin with fewer wrinkles and fine lines, stronger nails and thicker hair, increased bone mineral density, improved muscle recovery and strength, and joint mobility. | Vitamin C: This vitamin is an antioxidant

and a cofactor for collagen-producing enzymes. Maintaining collagen stability is essential, as deficiency leads to reduced collagen formation. As the human body cannot produce vitamin C, it’s recommended to consume a variety of foods rich in vitamin C, such as bell peppers, kiwi, broccoli, and strawberries. Supplements are beneficial for individuals with dietary restrictions or those with higher nutritional needs. | Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN):

It is a biologically active derivative of vitamin B3 and a direct precursor to NAD+, which declines with age. One study involving healthy postmenopausal women found that 300 mg of NMN daily for eight weeks decreased AGEs in the skin, resulting in reduced wrinkles, increased elasticity, and other signs of skin aging. Broccoli, edamame, and avocado provide small amounts of NMN, but dietary sources alone are not enough to restore NAD+ levels. During menopause, a daily supplement dose of 250–300 mg may be beneficial.

BE PROACTIVE TODAY Estrogen decline during menopause can significantly affect collagen production and your overall health. Nourish your body with balanced nutrition, healthy lifestyle choices, and targeted nutrients to help you feel strong and empowered during this time.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

Redefining beauty is accomplished from the inside out Think COLLAGEN – our experts do! “As a 30-something-year-old woman and nutritionist (who’s not getting any younger), collagen has been one unique product that I had my eye on. Why collagen? Unfortunately as we age, collagen density and dermal thickness decrease, and this lack of collagen cues the all-too-familiar signs of skin aging. No wonder we’re obsessed with trying to get more of it. What some critics say are concerns: Admittedly, collagen has been a hot topic and for good reason. We all want to look younger, so a product that touts any sort of beauty benefits will no doubt come under a lot of scrutiny. In recent years there has been a growing body of evidence and even larger review studies that collectively point to the same conclusion – collagen supplements

promote healthier looking skin, and decrease visible signs of aging, without any adverse side effects. Another concern that has been shared is that there may be a risk of contaminants and heavy metals in collagen. NATASHA Although there is merit to this, PAROUTIS, the truth is that not all collagen Nutritionist supplements are created equally. When choosing a collagen supplement that is bovine-sourced (cattle), it’s best to look for a product that is pasture-raised, grass-fed, and steroidal-, hormone-, and antibiotic-free. When choosing a marine-based collagen supplement, always look for one that is extracted from wild-caught and sustainably sourced fish, like whitefish.”

Why Total Body Collagen®? Revitalize, restore, and protect your skin from within. Support your muscles, joints, and ligaments.

WISE ADVICE

“Regularly add collagen to your diet.” Why? – JULIE REIL, MD and Beauty Expert

“When it comes to feeling good and looking good, I am going to share my secret weapon… it is called Total Body Collagen. I take it with a vitamin C supplement in the morning for my hair, skin, nails, and bones, and it couldn’t be easier. With Total Body Collagen, my hair is thicker and healthier and I lose less hair in the

shower and in my brush. Fine lines and wrinkles on my face are getting better as I age and my skin looks and feels more hydrated. My nails are stronger with fewer ridges and grow much faster. As an added bonus, Total Body Collagen supports my bone matrix for healthy teeth and bone density.”

Does it help reduce the signs of aging?

Yes, collagen hydrates our skin, reducing wrinkles and giving us that plump, youthful glow, healthy hair, and skin.

VERIFIED

CLEAN

TESTED NON-GMO

totalbodycollagen.com

If we don’t take responsibility for our health,

who will?

At Illumi Health, we believe that every person deserves access to trustworthy, practical guidance for staying well. The reality is simple: if we don’t take responsibility for our health, who will? This idea is not new. For nearly a century, health experts have emphasized the importance of prevention, education, and proactive care. Illumi exists to bring that wisdom forward – clearly, compassionately, and free of bias. Illumi is free of charge, with no advertising, commercial sponsors, or brand promotions.

“Every bite of food regulates your gene expression, hormones, immune system, brain chemistry, and even your microbiome. What you eat programs your body with messages of health or illness. This is what I mean by food is medicine!” – Mark Hyman, MD

“Lifestyle isn’t just an add-on to the treatment – it is the treatment. It’s the real treatment. Why aren’t we doing that first? Why aren’t we making that a formalized part of our healthcare system? It needs to be. The problem is that doctors ought to be in the business of teaching people how to live right. That should be part of the central theme of what we do. I believe in preventive medicine.” – Michael R. Lyon, MD

“Physical health takes consistent effort and daily practice over a long time, including eating right, smart supplementation, exercising, managing stress, and making many, many more good decisions than bad ones.” – Daniel G. Amen, MD Change Your Brain Every Day: Simple Daily Practices to Strengthen Your Mind, Memory, Moods, Focus, Energy, Habits, and Relationships

“If disease is like a car speeding toward a cliff, today’s medicine waits until after the crash and the car goes off the edge, and we build a hospital at the bottom. That’s not prevention, that’s treating the patient after the scan already shows cancer. True prevention is different. It builds a tunnel through the mountain, so you can avoid the cliff altogether. That’s how we can prevent 80% of diseases.” – Gaetano Morello, ND

Find out how to prevent diseases. Remember, prevention is the cure.

illumi H E A LT H

Get reliable information to help improve your life.

Scan to watch the latest content.

Accurate information can change people’s lives for the better, and illumi.health is the place to find it. The content is engaging, easy to understand, and relevant to Canadians of all ages and backgrounds. Best of all, there’s no cost to join, and no personal information is collected. Let’s all work together so that we can have a long, happy, and healthy life.

Visit illumi.health

I O N

TIO

N A N BSORPTIO

LI M

Digestive Cycles Earth’s Rhythms

INGE

TIO

BY STEPHANIE RUBINO, ND

OUR GUT HEALTH AND THE HEALTH OF THE EARTH ARE DEEPLY CONNECTED.

The digestive cycle and the Earth’s natural rhythms are rooted in similar core processes, such as transformation, absorption, and elimination, which produce energy and manage waste. Additionally, soil microbes interact with plants and become part of our microbiome. When soil microbial diversity declines – because of chemical use or other harmful practices – plants suffer, and so can we. A less diverse gut microbiome can lead to digestive concerns, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Protecting your digestive system is essential for maintaining health. Here are four tips to help manage and restore your digestion today.

ELIMINATE

1 HARMFUL TRIGGERS

Food intolerances, stress, and pathogens (yeast and parasites) are common triggers of IBS. About 60% of individuals with IBS report that certain foods provoke their symptoms, emphasizing the importance of diet in managing IBS. The typical Western diet, high in ultra-processed foods, increases risk, while lactose intolerance and non-celiac gluten sensitivity can also trigger symptoms. Poor FODMAP absorption can lead to abdominal pain, gas, and bloating. FODMAPs, an acronym for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols, are types of carbohydrates that can worsen IBS symptoms when consumed. Clinical trials have shown that a diet low in FODMAPs effectively manages IBS symptoms, especially abdominal bloating, leading to improvement in approximately 50–80% of IBS patients. 64

AND THE

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

RESTORE DIGESTIVE AIDS

2 AND NUTRIENTS

Reduced stomach acid and insufficient digestive enzymes, which are needed for proper food breakdown, can lead to gut concerns and nutrient deficiencies. Individuals with IBS are often deficient in essential nutrients, including zinc, B vitamins, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. ZINC deficiency can alter intestinal permeability, a factor that contributes to the development of IBS. Zinc helps regulate neurotransmitters, such as GABA and 5-HTP, which influence the physical and emotional symptoms of IBS. To ensure adequate zinc intake, include foods such as seafood, legumes, nuts, and seeds, along with zinc supplements, particularly zinc L-carnosine, which improves gut barrier integrity. VITAMIN D deficiency can compromise the intestinal barrier. Vitamin D supplementation improves IBS

symptoms and quality of life, and supports concerns such as depression and anxiety, which are common with IBS. Safe sun exposure and supplements are ways to achieve healthy vitamin D levels. ESSENTIAL FATTY ACID deficiency can cause low-grade inflammation and abdominal pain in IBS. Omega-3 supplementation can help reduce inflammation and support the microbiota. To maintain optimal levels, consume coldwater fish, chia and flax seeds, walnuts, and omega-3 supplements.

BENEFICIAL 3 BALANCE BACTERIA Individuals with IBS often have a gut microbiota imbalance, which is often caused by antibiotic exposure and GI infections. Supporting the gut with beneficial bacteria, such as those found in probiotics, is one way to restore microbial balance. Clinical trials have demonstrated that probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species, can help alleviate IBS symptoms, including gas, abdominal pain, bloating, and bowel urgency. PARTIALLY HYDROLYZED GUAR GUM (PHGG), a low FODMAP fibre and prebiotic, also increases beneficial bacteria in the gut. Studies show that IBS patients who consume this regulating fibre daily experience significantly reduced incidences of abdominal pain, gas, and bloating. PHGG can be easily mixed in water or other hot or cold beverages or foods.

THE 4 HEAL GUT LINING Low-grade mucosal inflammation and altered intestinal permeability are recognized contributors to IBS. Targeted nutrients, such as butyrate and L-glutamine, can help overcome these issues. BUTYRATE is a short-chain fatty acid produced naturally in the gut. Declines in butyrate may worsen IBS symptoms, while butyrate supplementation supports the gut barrier and reduces symptom frequency. Supplementation with butyrate leads to significantly less pain during bowel movements and improved bowel habits. Choose sodium butyrate, the form commonly used in clinical trials, and for optimal results, supplement with 250–1000 mg daily. L-GLUTAMINE, the most abundant amino acid in the body, promotes digestive health. L-glutamine helps seal the tight junctions in the gut and protects the intestinal barrier during periods of prolonged physical stress. Restore levels with micronized L-glutamine, which is more easily absorbed by the body. Note: Clinically studied entericcoated peppermint oil can be used during these steps to help reduce abdominal pain and the severity of IBS symptoms.

Your next steps Acknowledging the connection between the Earth and our gut is a vital step toward healthy digestion. When it comes to complex digestive concerns, such as IBS, a multi-step plan is essential for lasting relief. Remember to: ■ Identify and avoid triggers when possible. Use tools like the Monash University Low FODMAP Diet™ for guidance on FODMAPs. ■ Use digestive aids (bitter herbs, betaine hydrochloride, and digestive enzymes) along with foods and supplements to correct nutrient deficiencies. ■ Choose IBS-specific probiotics and add prebiotic fibres to balance the gut microbiota. ■ Repair the gut lining with nutrients like butyrate and L-glutamine.

By caring for your digestion, you’re honouring a relationship that starts with the Earth and continues within you.

WOMENSVOICEMAGAZINE.COM

From the Owner of Natural Factors

an urgent message

“

I am deeply concerned about the increasing signs of memory loss among people of all ages. After dedicating over 50 years of my adult life to the natural food industry, I’m approaching 70 and have begun to notice some memory lapses myself. While some may dismiss this as a normal part of aging, I firmly believe that this is FALSE. I have now made sure to focus on nourishing my brain and have witnessed remarkable results.

”

st e test la iv it n g o k ec me wor Took th “Yikes. ealized I had so bsorption r -a year and combo of high re just what e h s T 3 a to do. omega- oticed more d n a s B vitamin ordered. I’ve n ggy fo tor the doc hings that were tes, that t a n d o . laces, clarity ames, p keep taking this g n – e r befo uyin o I’ll hing – s y to be b kind of t lso super happ . a y!” – J.H Hey! I’m nadian compan a from a C

Here’s what others have shared about their experiences: “Given that my main he alth problem is a brain/ memory that doesn’t function well (my neuro logist says I don’t have deme ntia ‘yet,’ but no promi ses for 5 or 7 years from no w), I forgot about the brain packets that you sent me. They were redisc overed about a month ago an d are now part of my daily routine – one that ha s produced a miracle for me. I still have memory pro blems but now, after taking CogniSave, I feel like I have a much younge r, more alert and functioning brain! I recognize myse lf. It feels like a true mirac le and has, quite literal ly, changed my life.” – S.G . ets a few e CogniSave pack ”I started using th y it’s been a game I can honestly sa months ago, and cus. Juggling a ntal clarity and fo changer for my me itments, I often le and family comm busy work schedu mind sharp and ggling to keep my found myself stru ting CogniSave . Since incorpora up els lev gy er my en a significant ine, I've noticed into my daily rout n and overall nt memory rete io my in t en em ov impr ke it easy to take n. The packets ma tio nc fu ve iti gn co oductive, and el more alert, pr on the go, and I fe the day!“ – J.S. ready to take on

”One and done! This brain -saver pack saves me from havin g to go to 4 or 5 separate bo ttles. You people did the work fo r me! Soooo convenient! As I get older, easy and effective approaches to brain health are what it’s all abou t. Much appreciated .“ – N.S .

Is it possible to save your

memory?

YES, you can!

CogniSave™ was formulated to help protect brain cognition. • Omega-3 – high-potency EPA, DHA, and DPA • B Complex – full-spectrum active B complex • Phosphatidylserine – protects brain cell membranes • Phosphatidylcholine – boosts cognitive function

“I believe the best way for individuals of ALL AGES to remember their most important supplements is to have them in one simple packet.”

convenient

PACKETS

regenerlife.ca

Our Beautiful

GREEN EARTH

The ONLY HOME we have. “By caring for one another and working together, we can help keep our beautiful green Earth happy and healthy.”

9231344

– ROLAND GAHLER