WHAT IS NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE?

Naturopathic medicine is a distinct health care approach that applies the most cutting edge and evidence-based natural medicines via non-invasive and non-toxic therapies. 

Naturopathic Doctors focus not only on managing symptoms but also aim to treat the root cause(s) of disease and address preventable risk factors for long-lasting health solutions.

This process integrates clinical and laboratory diagnostic techniques in order to identify the disease process from which a treatment plan may be prescribed. The recommendations may include:

• Botanical (herbal) medicine
• Clinical Nutrition
• Orthomolecular medicine (vitamins, minerals and natural supplements)
• Homeopathy
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
• Acupuncture
• Lifestyle counselling.

WHY WOULD I ACCESS THIS SERVICE?

Simply put, to increase your child’s, and your family’s, quality of life.

If you have decided to support your child with a pharmaceutical, we can help manage uncomfortable side effects (should they present). For example, stimulant medications in AD(H)D commonly present with insomnia and a decreased appetite which could be managed with botanical and orthomolecular medicine.

Alternatively, there are numerous research-supported natural therapies which may be implemented prior to starting a medication. Many show equal benefit when compared to medications in clinical trials! 

Ultimately our goal is to support the body and brain to eventually not depend on pharmaceutical supports, by treating the biochemical imbalances of the disease process rather than suppressing symptoms.

At Integrate Health Services and the Kids Clinic, we have a particular focus in treating children with behaviour and mental health concerns including but not limited to:

• Autism spectrum support
• Attention (hyperactivity) deficit disorder
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Body image issues
• Anger management and temper tantrums
• Eating disorders
• Smoking and addiction cessation support
• Nutrition, lifestyle and exercise counselling

Other pediatric conditions seen:

• Skin concerns – eczema, acne
• Digestive concerns – IBS, constipation/diarrhea, food intolerance
• Immune support – cold and flu management, strengthen resistance to future infections
• Infant concerns – colic, food introduction, cradle cap, allergy and asthma prevention, etc.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF NATUROPATHIC SERVICES?

A Naturopathic Doctor can maximize the quality of life of a child and open endless opportunity for their futures, by decreasing their disease hardship.

Benefits are endless and dependent upon the condition being treated.

A child with AD(H)D may see the following benefits:

• Decreased impulsivity
• Increased concentration and mental clarity
• Improved ability to focus on details and complete tasks
• Increased capacity to sit still
• Improved memory and increased accountability
• Improved emotional stability and understanding
• Increased ability to listen to others
• Improved self awareness and self esteem

Adults can have ADHD too! 

Benefits may include:

• Develop stronger relationships
• Optimize physical and mental health
• Decrease risk of poor financial health
• Decreased risk of illegal activity
• Allow advantageous traits to prosper: leadership, creativity…

A child with Autism may see the following benefits:

• Increase in vocabulary, language complexity and enhanced receptive, expressive and spontaneous language development
• Enhanced cognition, understanding and learning
• Augmented digestive, immune, and skin health as well as ritual sleep patterns
• Improvements in focus, impulsivity and attention
• Increased tolerance to touch
• Developed understanding of emotions and how to express
• Decreased self-stimulating and self-harming behaviour
• Improvement interacting and socializing with peers and family

What about Mom and Dad?

Dr. McLaird also practices downtown Toronto where her clinic is composed mainly of working professionals of all ages. She is more than happy to extend her expertise to the whole family and strongly encourages parents to seek naturopathic support so they may put their best foot forward when their child needs them the most.