Working with a Naturopathic Doctor
The goal of a naturopathic doctor is to listen to your health concerns and give you the support you need in order to feel better. Naturopathic Doctors complete comprehensive investigations to identify the root cause of your symptoms which may include ordering laboratory and functional testing directly through Life Labs in order to properly diagnose and monitor your health. By understanding what is happening inside the body, naturopathic doctors can then customize a diet, lifestyle and supplement plan that works for you to help you feel better.
Naturopathic Doctors also work closely with your entire healthcare team to complement the current care you are receiving. Naturopathic doctors will support and help you navigate your next steps, especially if you are feeling overwhelmed or confused about your health or a recent diagnosis. Most patients may choose to see a Naturopathic Doctor after being diagnosed with a condition; however, you do not need to have a diagnosed condition to get results and support. Naturopathic Doctors are trained to diagnose or you may simply see a Naturopathic Doctor for health optimization.
Some common conditions people may choose to see a naturopathic doctor for include: acne, eczema, psoriasis, diabetes, bloating, constipation, trouble losing weight, thyroid dysfunction, hormone imbalances, anxiety, depression, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure.
What to Expect
During your initial appointment, the focus is primarily on gathering information in order to create an effective treatment plan. This includes detailed information about your health history and current health concerns, as well as diet and lifestyle factors. If required, physical exams will be completed on the first visit and recommendations for laboratory testing may be suggested. After gathering the information and interpreting lab results, a comprehensive and collaborative treatment plan will be created specifically for you and your health goals.
Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor progress and adjust treatment plans if required. Each person is different, so after the initial visit, you will have a better idea of how many appointments are needed. The ultimate goal is to leave you feeling educated and empowered with annual maintenance appointments if needed to assist you on your health journey.
Currently, OHIP does not cover ND visits, but extended health benefits typically do. Each insurance plan is different, so it is best to check with your insurer if you have coverage. Different plans will offer a different amount of coverage per visit or per year. Lab tests and supplement costs are not included in the visit prices and may or may not be covered by your insurance plan. At present, each lab test has a different cost, and this will be discussed in your initial appointment. We offer direct billing if your insurer has enabled it.
Naturopathic Medicine at Phoenix Physio Clinic
Dr. Sarah Capetola, ND sees a variety of conditions, including: allergies, anxiety, arthritis, autoimmune conditions, depression, fibromyalgia, fertility support, gout, hypertension, high cholesterol, fatty liver, insomnia, immune support, migraines, stress management, chronic UTI and obesity.
Dr. Sarah Capetola, ND has a clinical focus in women’s health and hormone balance, including:
- PCOS and Insulin Resistance
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Thyroid Health and Hashimoto
- PMS, Period Pain, and Irregular Periods
- Obesity
- Fatigue, Burnout and Mood Changes
- Digestive Complaints (GERD, Bloating, Constipation, Food Sensitivity, IBS)
- Skin Health (Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema)
It allows you to go back to doing what you love! Make sure you mention this article when you CALL (905) 832-1110 .
The Gut - Brain Connection
Did you know that the brain and gut are directly connected? The brain can send signals down to the intestines and the intestines can send signals back to the brain. The brain and gut are directly connected by the vagus nerve and indirectly connected by chemical messengers that are sent between the gut and brain.
Insulin Resistance: What is it and how is it contributing to your symptoms?
After a meal, our blood sugar rises and insulin is released to move the sugar out of the blood and into the cells. Then insulin levels and blood sugar levels slowly begin to decrease. Sometimes our bodies may become less sensitive to insulin; this means that more insulin is needed in order to move sugar into the cells. This insulin resistance is one of the first signs of blood sugar dysregulation and when left unmanaged, this can lead to chronic inflammation, trouble losing weight, obesity, cardiovascular disease and Type 2 Diabetes.
Are Your Hormones Imbalanced?
Hormones are chemical messengers in your body; they are produced in the endocrine glands and travel in your bloodstream to your tissues and organs to tell them what to do. Hormones play an important part in your overall health and contribute to your mood, appetite, and weight. Normally, hormone levels can fluctuate from day to day. Hormones also fluctuate as a result of the natural aging process. However, there can sometimes be too little or too much hormone produced in the body which can have a serious effect on your physical, mental and emotional health.