After iron, zinc is the most abundant element in the human body, with approximately 2 to 4 g distributed among the muscles (60%), bones (20%), liver, and skin. Given its abundance, concerns about zinc deficiency is often overlooked; however, as discussed in this article, certain populations and individuals may benefit from supplementation.

Sure, dental cleaning is great for our oral health, but did you know that it can also improve the wellness of your whole body? Daily toothbrushing and flossing is crucial to maintain the health of our gums and teeth; however, this might actually be more important in pregnant women and those looking to conceive.

Prenatal genetic testing is used to determine if a fetus has, or is at risk of developing, a genetic disorder. These disorders are caused by changes, often deletions or duplications, in fetal DNA and chromosomes. Two main types of testing often performed are screening and diagnosis. Screening tests typically look for aneuploidy—an abnormal number of chromosomes

In media today, inflammation is depicted as having a negative influence on health but for good reason. Inflammation is related to many disease processes especially those involved in auto-immune conditions such as Crohn’s disease, arthritis; asthma (1). It is easy to forget that the inflammatory response as part of the immune system is itself an adaptive process to aid in healing.

With pregnancy come major changes in circulation. It’s no wonder: With an increase in body weight from the fetus and surrounding fluid, extra pressure is added onto organs and other structures like the weaker-walled veins. The body’s blood volume also increases and these changes can result in swelling, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders. PCOS affects one in every five women of the reproductive age.

The availability of contraceptive birth control has been incredibly supportive of women’s autonomy over reproductive health. As women, we’ve been given this amazing opportunity to be in control of our bodies; whether it be for preventing an accidental pregnancy, or for obtaining relief from hormonal dysfunction.

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a diagnosis that describes glucose intolerance with the onset of diabetes during pregnancy in a previously nondiabetic woman. With a prevalence of 8–18% in Canadian pregnancies, screening is recommended after approximately 24 weeks gestation.

Often times when we hear the word “infertility”, our mind immediately goes to a woman wanting to bear a child. Less often, perhaps, does one immediately think about the potential that a male reproductive issue could be the reason a couple is having problems conceiving.

Understanding your menstrual cycle involves more than just estimating your next period. Knowing your body and tracking your menstrual cycles can provide insight into your hormonal and reproductive health. You might be experiencing symptoms that we usually label as “normal,” when we should be calling them “common.”