By Maria Castillo-Stone
A few months ago I had the pleasure of meeting the team for this interview which you may have read an extract from our paper newsletter (if you didn’t receive a copy in your mailbox, and you don’t have a “No Junk Mail” sign, contact me at: communication@capitolhillcommunity.ca). Enjoy reading, and hopefully this provides a little distraction in these uncertain times.
Dr. Rebecca Sagan
What was your incentive to choose Capitol Hill for your practice?
Capitol was a great location for me because it was so easily accessible, it’s close to the LRT, 16 Ave, and it was also a really cute business district with an independent coffee shop right across the street. I also knew the Ostberg’s from the art gallery across the other street.
Dr. Hajnalka Pinter
Capitol Hill is a centrally located neighbourhood with a good vibe. There are a lot of amazing small businesses in the area offering unique services. About 10 years ago, I would go to Weeds café for a strong coffee after an early morning yoga class at the Yoga Shala nearby and enjoy the community feel of that space. It felt like it was a place where people came together. Also, I knew my colleague Dr. Sagan worked at and established Naturally Good Health clinic across the street. We had talked about working together someday. This goal became realized in September 2017 when I moved my naturopathic practice from the west end of downtown to Capitol Hill.
What is your philosophy in the world of Naturopathic Medicine?
RS: I strongly believe that given the right support, the body can heal and be incredibly resilient. Naturopathic medicine is steeped in tradition, and I feel like these traditional methods are being validated by science all the time; with our knowledge of the human genome and microbiome, we are now seeing exactly how different botanicals and probiotics are able to support the body and bring about healing. I strongly believe that naturopathic medicine is a true blending of science and nature.
HP: I believe that when given the right tools, foods, and environment the human body is capable of balancing and healing itself. As a naturopathic doctor, is it my job to assess what is blocking this healing potential in a person and provide the tools to allow their body to discard waste, toxins, microbes and process emotions. As our world continues to change, it is more important than ever to look after our health and create more resilience in our bodies, not just to deal with increasing toxins in our environment but to keep up with our busy lives. I have come to realize that we must detoxify on a deeper more cellular level and deal with emotions to truly heal the body.
For a new patient, what can they expect at your practice?
RS: A new patient can expect to spend 90 minutes with me the first time they are in. This gives us time to discuss all of their health concerns, we do a physical exam and then we begin a treatment plan based on my assessment of what is going on. This could include further testing, diet changes, and specific supplementation.
HP: The initial consult is 90 minutes in length, which consists of discussing your current and past health concerns, how you experience your symptoms and conducting a complaint oriented physical exam. We start a treatment plan based your current state of health and our findings. A treatment plan may include further lab testing, dietary guidelines and specific homeopathic remedies, herbal formulas and nutritional supplements.
What are your essentials for the winter season?
RS: In the winter I always boost up my vitamin C and vitamin D. The immune system can take a beating with the fluctuations in temperature, indoor air, and all the festive holidays. I generally have an antimicrobial formula on hand as well, just in case!
HP: During the winter months, I always take a probiotic to support the immune system and digestive system, vitamin D, a delicious vitamin C powder, a multi-vitamin and a botanical tincture to fight microbes. This botanical includes a combination of anti-microbials and immune boosting herbs, it has been dubbed ‘the golden elixir’ and it works.
What’s one product everyone should have at home?
RS: A natural deodorant—at the clinic we carry the Routine cream brand, they’re a local company that makes a product that really works. My point is that if we’re not putting junk on our bodies, then there’s less we have to get out. Many people don’t realize how fragrances and deodorant products can mess up our hormones and stress out our liver.
HP: A probiotic is important for everyone in your household. As more studies emerge on the importance of the microbiome and how it plays a role in your immune health, digestive system, mood and even weight management, it is something to consider taking. When we take antibiotics, prescription drugs and even the food we eat will decrease our good flora. At Naturally Good Health clinic, we carry a wide variety of probiotics for specific situations.
Who inspired you growing up?
RS: Growing up, I was inspired by a lot of athletes, I loved playing sports and I really enjoyed pushing myself that way. I was also inspired by my mom, she always was working on being her best, eating nutritious foods and making sure her kids were eating well too.
HP: I was inspired by courageous woman scientists like Jane Goodall, who was one of the first to observe and track chimpanzees for anthropological study. She also recognized the need for environmental protection of the animal’s habitat to preserve the species. Also, I was inspired by my own mother, who looked after our family by cooking healthy meals, growing a veggie garden, canning and making jam and followed traditional ways of living, which included spending more time outdoors.
What advice would you give to anyone who was thinking about starting a business in Capitol Hill?
RS: Participate in local events, last year we attended the Capitol Hill Neighbour Day event, it was such a great way to meet other business owners in the area. There are a bunch of awesome people in this community who are doing some great things and are happy to support their fellow small business owners.
HP: Get out and meet other businesses in the area and network. You may find other like- minded people. Last year, we participated in the Neighbour Day event and it was a fun way to meet people in the community and other small businesses. It was a good way to engage with others and find out more about what they do.
If you enjoyed that, the team at Naturally Health are contributors to our monthly e-newsletter with helpful tips and naturopathic health advice.