Naturopathic Medicine Week: Maximize Your Kids’ Wellbeing with Healthy, Active Living

May 6, 2011

TORONTO, May 5, 2011 - As we consume more processed foods and lead an increasingly sedentary lifestyle, obesity rates have steadily risen and have become one of the leading causes of preventable death in Canada. For youth, it is especially important to eat healthy and get ample physical activity in order to prevent the serious health risks associated with this condition. Fortunately, with the assistance of naturopathic doctors and the Be Your Best Self (BYBS) program for kids and teens, living a healthier life can become second nature.

The original BYBS program for adults was created by Afsoun Khalili, a naturopathic doctor (ND) and clinic supervisor at the Robert Schad Naturopathic Clinic (RSNC), almost six years ago. The inspiration came from her patients who wanted to make healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating whole foods and incorporating regular physical activity into their day, but didn’t have the proper assistance to do it. Through research and studying the efficacy of traditional weight-loss programs, Khalili was able to develop a system which could encourage positive lifestyle changes in a supportive group setting.

Launched in November 2009, BYBS for kids and teens builds on the original success of the adult program but is geared toward a younger audience. It is open to kids from 12 – 18, as well as their parents if they wish (though a parent must accompany a child under 13). The program’s goals remain the same – teaching good eating habits and informing about healthy choices – but the approach has shifted to discussing issues that trouble young people.

“The program is more interactive for young kids – we try to make it fun. We have a cooking class for kids, and we want them to be excited about eating healthy. We emphasize the importance of exercise. We also focus on conditions affecting kids such as body image, acne, diarrhea, constipation, ear infections, ADD, ADHD and so on.”

The program also addresses the concerns that older teenagers have, and gives them the tools to ease their transition into eating healthier. Khalili understands that these years are challenging and wants to give teens the choice to make healthy decisions.

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The BYBS program is one of the many services provided by the team at the RSNC. Join us on Monday, May 9 at 6 p.m. to learn more about naturopathic medicine at our special meet-and-greet information session, Meet the New RSNC Interns.

The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) is Canada's premier institute for education and research in naturopathic medicine. CCNM offers a rigorous four-year, full-time doctor of naturopathic medicine program. The College educates, develops and trains naturopathic doctors through excellence in health education, clinical services and research that integrate mind, body and spirit.


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For more information contact:

Karamjit Singh, Media and Community Relations Officer
416-498-1255 ext. 263
ksingh@ccnm.edu
www.ccnm.edu


For more information contact:
Karamjit Singh
Media and Community Relations Officer
CCNM
Phone: 416-498-1255 x 263
Email: ksingh@ccnm.edu
Website: www.ccnm.edu

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Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine

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