Understanding where vitamin D comes from, which children may be at greater risk of deficiency and when supplementation may be appropriate can help parents and practitioners make informed decisions.

What is Vitamin D?

Vitamin D is an essential micronutrient everyone needs for optimal health. When the body doesn’t regularly get enough, it can interfere with health without showing clinical signs. It plays a role in the health of bones, the immune system, and overall wellness.

Vitamin D for Healthy Bones in Kids

Vitamin D, along with calcium and magnesium, plays an important role in healthy bone development. It helps support the processes involved in bone mineralization, the process by which bones combine minerals to build strong structures.

Strong bones start in childhood. A of 13 clinical studies in healthy children and adolescents found a connection between vitamin D levels and bone mineral density. While factors such as age and nutrition also affect bone health, the findings suggest that getting enough vitamin D may help support growing bones. More research is needed to understand how vitamin D levels influence bone health over the long term.

For decades, vitamin D has been used to prevent and treat nutritional rickets in children.

Immune Support: Vitamin D

Vitamin D also has a role in immune function, with vitamin D receptors found on cells involved in both innate and adaptive immunity.

suggests that vitamin D supplementation may help reduce the rates of infections in paediatric populations.

Research also suggests there may be a beneficial role of vitamin D supplementation in preventing autoimmune disorders, with data potentially linking vitamin D deficiency to increased rates of childhood asthma and other allergic conditions.

More research is needed before recommendations can be made in the possible use of vitamin D in these conditions, but evidence appears to show vitamin D plays a role in children’s immune health.

Where Can Kids Get Vitamin D?

Sunlight is the most common way the body is able to increase its vitamin D levels. When exposed to sunlight, skin can create vitamin D.

But Canada’s high latitude prevents year-round vitamin D synthesis through sun exposure. As such, milk is fortified in Canada with vitamin D. For kids who don’t eat dairy, look for dairy alternatives that are supplemented with vitamin D.

Food sources of include egg yolks, mushrooms and fatty fish, such as salmon. This could be a problem if you have a picky eater to contend with – mushrooms and fish aren’t typically on kids’ favourite food lists. These kids may be at greater risk of deficiency.

For some kids, vitamin D supplementation may be needed.

Are Canadian Kids Getting Enough Vitamin D?

Canadian children may not be getting enough vitamin D. Data from the found that vitamin D status declined among children ages 6 to 18 between 2007–2009 and 2012–2013. During that time, the percentage of children who had sufficient vitamin D fell from about 79% to 68%. The number of Canadian children with insufficient vitamin D levels rose to 25%, and those who were deficient increased from 4.3% to 6.5%.

What might be contributing to the gap? The study found that age, household income, weight status, ethnicity and season were associated with vitamin D status. Older children, children from lower-income households and children who were overweight or obese were less likely to have sufficient vitamin D levels.

Another important finding is that Vitamin D levels also tended to be higher in the summer and fall than in the winter. Thus, vitamin D is an important nutrient to consider during winter months.

Diet may be another piece of the puzzle. Milk was the main dietary source of vitamin D among the children studied, but both milk and fish consumption declined between the two survey periods. Eggs and red meat consumption did not change significantly. Because Canada’s northern latitude limits vitamin D production from sunlight for much of the year, relying on sun exposure alone may not provide enough vitamin D.

For parents, the takeaway is simple: pay attention to vitamin D sources throughout the year. Include vitamin-D-rich and fortified foods as part of your child’s regular diet, and talk with a healthcare professional about whether a vitamin D supplement is appropriate for your child. This may be particularly important during the Canadian winter or when a child has factors that may increase their risk of low vitamin D.

Should You Give Kids Vitamin D?

For some children, supplementation is an important way to help meet vitamin D needs.

Risk factors identified by the for kids at greater risk of vitamin D insufficiency include:

• darker skin pigmentation
• living at northern latitudes
• limited sun exposure
• food insecurity
• obesity
• low intake of vitamin-D-rich foods
• maternal vitamin D deficiency

For practitioners, this reinforces the value of looking at the whole child and their circumstances, rather than relying on age alone when discussing vitamin D for kids.

How Much Vitamin D Do Kids Need in Canada?

The amount of vitamin D a child needs depends on age, feeding method and individual risk.

For healthy children, many paediatric guidelines recommend approximately 400 IU daily for infants and 600 IU daily for children aged 1 to 18 years to support bone health.

The recommends:

• Breastfed infants: 400 IU/day during the first year.
• High-risk breastfed infants: 800 IU/day may be recommended.
• Formula-fed infants: supplementation is generally unnecessary when they consume sufficient vitamin-D-fortified formula, although higher-risk infants may require supplementation.
• Children 1 to 5 years: dietary advice is generally recommended for low-risk children, while high-risk children may be advised to receive 400 IU/day.

Wondering if More Vitamin D is Better?

When researchers reviewed (a total of 5,748 children younger than five years) they found that higher-dose vitamin D (1000 IU)supplementation did not significantly reduce upper respiratory tract infections compared to 400IU. In other words, vitamin D is important for normal immune function, but more vitamin D is not automatically better.

Which Form of Vitamin D is Best?

There are two main forms of vitamin D supplements: vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol).

• Vitamin D3 – produced in the skin following exposure to ultraviolet B radiation. It is also found in some animal foods and fortified foods.
• Vitamin D2 – found in some plant foods, including mushrooms.

suggests that vitamin D3 is more effective than vitamin D2 at raising the blood levels of vitamin D.

Got a picky kid? Luckily, there are options in Canada for all kinds of kids that need a vitamin D supplement, including liquid drops, chewables, and gummies.

Meeting Nutritional Needs of Kids in Canada

Vitamin D is a small nutrient with a big job during childhood. It supports the mineralization of growing bones and participates in immune function. But Canada’s northern latitude can make obtaining enough from sunlight challenging. Add in picky eaters and busy schedules, and some kids aren’t getting enough.

Focusing on vitamin D-rich foods and understanding when supplementation is recommended can help support the individual vitamin D needs of kids. For practitioners, when working with children and families navigating these surprisingly complicated nutrients, it’s important to consider eating patterns, food access, geography, sun exposure, growth and the child’s broader nutritional picture.

Having a deeper understanding of children’s nutrition can make a difference.

If you’re interested in learning more about the nutritional needs of children and how nutrition fits into a holistic approach to health, learn more about programs available at the 91��Ƭ��, including distance education options.

Learn more about kids’ nutrition today!

References

.

The post Vitamin D for Canadian Kids: How Much Do They Really Need? appeared first on CSNN National Page.

Researchers have found that may be linked to lifestyle and environmental factors that we can actually change. That means what we eat, how we move, how we handle stress and sleep can have a profound impact on how our brains age.

This is what proactive health is all about – taking steps today to preserve your wellness. Why wait for problems to arise? You could take action today! Here’s how you can age smarter.

The Science Behind Proactive Nutrition

A growing body of evidence shows that nutrition and lifestyle choices shape brain health. A two-year clinical trial, known as , recently confirmed that lifestyle habits can slow or even improve cognitive performance in older adults at risk for memory decline. Participants who followed a structured plan (brain-healthy diet, regular physical activity, social and mental engagement, and support for heart health) showed measurable improvements in overall cognition, especially in memory and executive function.

Our brains thrive when we include them in our holistic approach to wellness. The brain is impacted by the foods we eat, the way we move, how we rest, and the stress we carry. A proactive approach to health may feed into long-term brain performance.

How to Feed Your Brain to Protect Your Memory

What we eat fuels our brains. Research consistently shows that diets rich in plant foods, healthy fats, and antioxidants are linked to better brain health and a lower risk of cognitive decline. The Mediterranean and , in particular, are two of the most well-studied examples.

4 Proactive Nutrition Strategies to Age Smarter Supported by Research:

• Load up on colourful fruits and vegetables. Berries, leafy greens, and cruciferous veggies are packed with antioxidants that protect brain cells from oxidative damage.
• Include healthy fats. Foods like salmon, sardines, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds provide omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital for brain structure and communication.
• Choose whole grains and legumes. These provide steady energy for the brain and support gut health, which is increasingly .
• Go easy on ultra-processed foods. Diets high in refined sugar, trans fats, and sodium can promote inflammation and metabolic stress – two key players in cognitive decline.

At CSNN, students dive deep into how nutrition supports every system of the body, including the brain. The school’s holistic approach teaches how food isn’t just fuel – it’s information that tells your body and mind how to function. Our science-based approach prepares you to be able to guide clients towards healthier lifestyle choices to support brain health.

Movement: Exercise as Brain Medicine

Exercise is one of the most powerful tools we have to keep our minds young. When you move your body, you increase blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that fuel cognitive performance. Regular movement also triggers the r(BDNF), a protein that supports the growth of new neurons and strengthens existing connections.

Science shows that consistent physical activity can lower the risk of dementia by .

If that sounds like motivation to lace up your shoes, try these practical steps:

• Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity each week: walking, cycling, dancing, or swimming all count.
• Incorporate strength training twice a week to maintain muscle mass and metabolic health.
• Move every day. Even short bursts of activity (a brisk walk after meals or standing stretches every hour) help keep your circulation and focus strong.

What’s the key to success? Find movement you enjoy. It’s not about perfection – it’s about consistency.

Stress: Protecting the Mind from Modern Overload

Our brains aren’t designed for constant stress. Over time, and elevated cortisol levels can damage brain regions involved in memory and emotion, such as the hippocampus.

Proactive health includes learning how to reset and recharge your nervous system regularly.

Try building these practices into your routine:

• Start your day with a mindfulness ritual. Even 5 minutes of deep breathing or gratitude journaling can lower stress hormones and centre your mind.
• Stay socially connected. Meaningful relationships are one of the strongest predictors of long-term brain health and emotional resilience.
• Get outside daily. Nature exposure reduces stress and boosts focus, even with just 10 minutes outdoors.

A large study published in the journal found that people who maintained social engagement and managed stress had significantly better cognitive outcomes in later life.

Holistic practitioners trained at CSNN help clients develop stress-resilience strategies, using approaches like motivational interviewing to uncover what really helps each person stay balanced.

Sleep: Rejuvenate and Restore Your Brain

Sleep is one of the brain’s most active and essential processes. During deep sleep, your brain clears out metabolic waste, including , a protein thought to play a role in Alzheimer’s disease.

Insufficient or poor-quality sleep has been , including memory problems, mood changes, and even faster cognitive decline.

To protect your brain, consider these sleep-smart habits:

• Keep a consistent bedtime and wake time—even on weekends.
• Power down screens at least 30 minutes before bed. Blue light suppresses melatonin, your body’s sleep hormone.
• Create a calming pre-bed routine. Gentle stretches, herbal tea, or reading (on paper!) can signal your body to unwind.
• Aim for 7–9 hours per night. Quantity and quality both count.

Good sleep is one of the simplest yet most underrated acts of proactive health.

How to Protect Memory: 5 Steps to Better Brain Aging

The beauty of a proactive health approach is that it doesn’t rely on drastic changes or expensive interventions. It’s about small, steady habits that add up over time.

Here’s how you can start building your lifestyle to protect your memory today:

• Add one extra serving of colourful vegetables to your plate each day.
• Take a 10-minute walk after meals to boost blood flow and energy.
• Schedule “no-tech” time before bed.
• Practice a short breathing exercise mid-afternoon to lower stress.
• Connect with a friend or family member—conversation itself stimulates the brain.

Each of these steps helps strengthen the systems that support long-term cognitive health.

Learn the Science of Proactive Health at CSNN

The 91��Ƭ�� has long championed a proactive, holistic approach to wellness. Students study the science of nutrition, then learn the art of inspiring change. The unique Motivational Interviewing skills taught at CSNN help graduates determine the root cause of issues, and guide clients to build healthy habits that fit their needs and lifestyles.

Here’s what makes CSNN unique:

• Natural Nutrition Program: A comprehensive diploma program that blends evidence-based nutrition science with holistic wisdom.
• Culinary Workshops and Certificates: Learn how to create brain-nourishing meals and gain practical kitchen skills you can share with others.
• Motivational Interviewing: A key component of CSNN training, teaching you how to guide clients through lasting lifestyle change.
• Lifelong Learning: From workshops to monthly bulletins on topics like proactive health and gut-brain wellness, CSNN helps you stay informed and inspired.

Whether you’re pursuing a new career path or simply want to understand your body and brain better, CSNN gives you the tools to make proactive health a lifelong practice.

Your Brain Is Waiting

Every nourishing meal, every mindful breath, every good night’s sleep is a step towards aging smarter. Science continues to affirm that our lifestyle choices today can build a more resilient, vibrant brain tomorrow.

If you’re curious about how to integrate proactive nutrition and lifestyle principles into your life, or to help others do the same, explore the programs, workshops, and blogs offered by the (CSNN).

Request a brochure today from one of our branches. Flexible learning formats, schedules, and payment plans to take your passion for nutrition into a rewarding career. Start Today!

References:

The post Aging Smarter: Proactive Nutrition Strategies to Protect Memory appeared first on CSNN National Page.

More than 80% of women experience worsening gut symptoms during the menopausal shift. Of those women, more than half say it impacts their quality of life, causing them to avoid certain social situations due to gastrointestinal issues. These women report feeling under-treated, uninformed, and frustrated. Helping women learn more about gut health could improve their daily lives. However, is there more happening in the gut? Is gut health a factor in women’s perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms?

What is Gut Health?

Gut health is more than how well you can digest and eliminate food. The extend to the immune system, mental health, and numerous metabolic markers related to menopause symptoms, such as elevated LDL cholesterol levels.

Let’s explore the role gut health and the microbiota that live there are impacting various systems of the body. Some of these systems play a role in the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause in women.

Impact of Perimenopause/Menopause Symptoms on Canadian Women

• 3 out of 4 women experience menopausal symptoms that interfere with their daily lives
• 1 in 4 women suffer from severe menopausal symptoms
• 1 in 10 women stop working due to unmanaged symptoms of menopause

Data from the , 2026

What is the Microbiome?

The microbiome is a community of microorganisms that live in and on the body. Over one hundred billion microbes exist in the microbiome. The makeup of the microbiota in the microbiome impacts wellness. A healthy microbiome contains microbiota that support health. An unbalanced microbiome, a condition called dysbiosis, can lead to symptoms and disease.

How Does the Microbiome Impact Women’s Health?

Once food leaves the stomach, where pepsin breaks down proteins, it enters the . This is where the body processes and absorbs nutrients. It’s also the key area to find the cells that are able to interact with the gut’s contents – these cells can then send messages that impact the immune system, neurological system, and hormone release.

The health of this interface influences the signalling and response of the body in many ways. An unhealthy gut microbiome hosts more pathogenic or opportunistic microbes, which tend to release toxins into the gut, triggering inflammation and disrupting gut lining health and function. The result can impair digestion, absorption, immune responses, the production of helpful neurotransmitters, and the natural balance of LDL cholesterol and estrogen cycles.

Why is Gut Health Hard to Maintain?

The challenge with the microbiome is that it changes daily. Factors including diet, travel, medication and age impact the types of microbiota present. Not to mention, most of the feces you excrete is actually microbes leaving the gut. This constant flux in population creates a dynamic environment.

Gut Health in Aging Women

How do you know if your gut microbiome is unbalanced? There can be a variety of symptoms, which may include:

• Digestive troubles
• Frequent illness
• Yeast infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Anxiety/Depression
• Mood changes

In menopause, research women are more likely to experience bloating, stomach pain, constipation or acid reflux.

Why Menopause Causes Changes in Gut Health

In the gut, there are about 60 bacterial types that in the gut. These bacteria produce an enzyme called B-glucuronidase that’s able to support the body’s estrogen recycling program. As women age, there is a shift in the types of microbes found in their gut – a shift that results in fewer of the number and type of these bacteria. The lower amounts of B-glucuronidase means when the body breaks estrogen into smaller pieces, it gets eliminated, not recycled. This, added to the lower estrogen production of the ovaries in perimenopause, adds to the total decline in estrogen in the female body.

Lower Estrogen Levels Impact Women’s Health

When levels of estrogen (estradiol) are lower, women can experience:

• Stress, mood instability (lower estrogen levels means less dopamine/serotonin)
• Cognitive changes, brain fog
• Sleep disturbances
• Metabolic changes
• and urinary symptoms

It’s been suggested that a greater diversity could promote hormone retention and optimization of the levels of systemic sex hormones.

How to Support Gut Health in Perimenopausal Women: Holistic Approach

1. Stress – In the gut, stress is linked to lower diversity of gut microbiota – a shift associated with poor gut health. Women in their 40s and 50s are in a life stage where stress can be high as they move into more challenging roles in their careers, juggle being parents and take care of aging parents. For those women who were able to manage their stress before perimenopause, they may find their resilience has declined. Considering how, in women experiencing chronic stress, their adrenal glands are working hard to keep up with cortisol production, they are now being asked to also support sex hormones to make up for the low levels being supplied by the ovaries. A little adrenal support may help women experiencing stress, particularly during perimenopausal/menopausal years. In addition, when stressed, the brain’s capacity for memory and focus declines.
2. Exercise – shows that exercise can promote beneficial bacteria. In addition, physical activity is linked with many other health benefits, including muscle and bone strength, cardiovascular health, and mental health.
3. Diet – Food choices impact the composition of the microbiota. show high sugar and fat diets alter the microbiota composition, and induce anxiety- and depression-like behaviours. Dietary fibres can act as prebiotics, associated with an increase in diversity in the microbiota.
4. Probiotics – Growing evidence supports restoring microbial diversity to support gut health.

Does Gut Health Influence Hot Flashes?

According to reports from Western menopausal women, hot flashes interfere with their sleep. A investigated whether a dietary shift could impact the frequency and severity of hot flashes, as well as its impact on gut microbiota diversity. Over 12 weeks, 84 postmenopausal women with 2 or more hot flashes per day were asked to eat a low-fat, vegan diet that included ½ cup of cooked soya beans per day. The women reported their nighttime hot flashes were reduced by 94%. Soya beans are a dietary source of phytoestrogens, known to selectively interact with estrogen receptors.

The shifts in the gut microbiota were interesting among the women who ate a more plant-based diet. They had higher numbers of the types of bacteria associated with gut health, and lower amounts of those associated with hot flash severity.

Mood Changes in Perimenopause: The Role of the Gut

The percentage of women experiencing anxiety symptoms during perimenopause is almost double that of those who experience them during reproductive years of life. In British Columbia, noted that more than half of women experienced either anxiety or depressive symptoms above a clinically acceptable threshold. Does gut health play a role in mental health?

Gut Health and Mental Health in Women

The are constantly in communication. It makes sense as the brain needs to be told food has arrived, triggering it to release digestive enzymes into the digestive tract, alter peristalsis, and alter hunger signals. But, there’s more than just a few signals going back and forth.

The gut lining contains specialized cells (endochromaffin cells) that communicate with nerve endings of the vagus nerve – a direct pathway to the brain. This is part of the gut-brain axis. The endochromaffin cells are able to communicate, as they produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter. is known as the happy neurotransmitter. It’s been estimated that 90% of the serotonin in the body is produced in the gut. A lot of neurotransmitters are influenced by the gut microbiota:

• Serotonin – manages mood, motivation and willpower
• Dopamine – pleasure/reward, mood, cognition and movement
• GABA – relaxation and lowers anxiety
• – sleep quality

Can Probiotics Support Women’s Gut Health and Impact Quality of Life in Perimenopause?

in the United Kingdom have been looking at the impact of probiotics in women (aged 45-65 years). When 50 women were given either 50 billion CFUs of a multistrain probiotic or a placebo, they found changes in menopausal symptoms, sleep, and quality of life. In particular, there was a 40% reduction in anxiety in those who took the probiotic supplement, compared to placebo. Hot flashes and night sweats were also improved.

How to Improve Vaginal Health in Perimenopausal Women: Probiotics

The vaginal tract is a unique microbiome that, when healthy, hosts a wide variety and number of Lactobacillus bacteria. The vaginal tract microbiota levels are intimately linked to estrogen. Lower estrogen levels, such as those experienced in perimenopause and menopause, alter the vaginal microbiome. The shift is associated with bacterial vaginosis.

While the vaginal microbiome is not the most well-researched area of women’s health, it appears that there are some predominant bacterial species here, including Lactobacillus genesii, Lactobacillus gasseri and Lactobacillus crisparus.

Some clinical studies have used oral probiotics and observed a beneficial shift in the vaginal microbiota, but only with some strains and dosages. More research is needed.

Of note, a fascinating new research study found a correlation between the types of microbiota in the vaginal microbiome and .

How to Support Women Through Menopause: Role of the Gut Microbiome

Gut health is an under-recognized factor in perimenopause and menopausal health. The hormonal shifts that occur during perimenopause and menopause directly alter the gut microbiome. Since the gut-brain-hormone axis influences mood, sleep, and cognition, the health of the gut microbiome could be impacting the severity of perimenopause symptoms.

Luckily, lifestyle factors can shape the microbiome, with a focus on a diet rich in plants, including phytoestrogen sources, reducing stress and including . Probiotics can be a tool in supporting gut health in perimenopausal and menopausal women, with some suggesting possible improvements in hot flashes, sleep and . But evidence shows probiotics have strain-specific benefits, emphasizing the importance of choosing probiotic products that contain strains that have been clinically proven to deliver the results you seek.

Shifts in the gut microbiome as a woman ages impact her wellness – incorporating holistic nutrition strategies to improve gut health may play a supportive role.

References

.

.

.

The post Could Gut Health be the Missing Link in Managing Perimenopause and Longevity? appeared first on CSNN National Page.

��

Symptoms of Wildfire Smoke Exposure:

• Watery eyes
• Runny nose
• Scratchy throat
• Irritated sinuses
• Headaches
• Bronchitis
• Exacerbation of existing heart and lung conditions

1. Avoid Exposure

While the long-term health impacts of wildfire smoke exposure is uncertain, some suggests there may be an increased risk of certain diseases, including respiratory illnesses and cancer.

When outside, suggests wearing a properly fitted mask may be helpful. It could reduce intake of fine particles common in wildfire smoke. Use data from air quality reports for guidance about when it is best to enjoy outdoor activities, or opt for indoor plans.

While inside, close windows to reduce smoke exposure – as long as the weather is not too hot. Turn on your air filtration systems, and place it in the room where people are going to be. Ensure the filter is clean. Guidelines suggest you look for high-efficiency particular air (HEPA) filters that are an appropriate size for the room. Plus, don’t forget to stock up on nature’s best air purifiers: plants!

Once the air quality in your neighbourhood improves and the smoke clears, do let fresh air back into your home. Indoor air can become polluted, even with the windows closed. Clean your air filters and wipe down home surfaces to remove any settled particles.

2. Houseplants Improve Air Quality

Plants are fantastic air filters. There’s no better place to test whether something filters toxins from the air, than in the tight environment of a spacecraft. NASA scientists were the first to propose plants as indoor air filters. Despite this idea being rooted in space, it’s a growing trend. Green walls are common in corporate spaces, and could soon be a popular feature in home design with understanding of the possible health impacts poor air quality.

Your indoor air can contain many pollutants, including wildfire smoke, nitrogen dioxide from gas appliances, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from synthetic materials and cigarette smoke. Many show potted plants inside a room can remove pollutants found in tobacco smoke. Called botanical biofilters by some , maybe it’s time to include more potted in your decorating plans.

But, before you go – know that it’s not the plant itself doing the dirty work. Bacteria in the soil of potted plants work with the plant to help sequester pollutants, removing them from the air. To optimize your houseplants’ air filtering powers, ensure maximum air filters near its leaves – simply turn your indoor fans to direct airflow towards the plant.

3. Eat, Sleep & De-Stress

Incredibly adaptive, the human body has some natural ability to deal with pollutants. Start with a focus on your general wellness, such as sleep, good food and movement.

Wellness Practices Worth Doing During Wildfire Season:

• Get enough sleep
• Eat nutrient-rich foods
• Hydrate
• Move your body
• Breathe deeply/meditate

Best Foods to Eat During Wildfire Season

Exposure to toxic pollutants is hard on your body. There are no studies suggesting any specific food helps during wildfire season. However, there are nutrients, particularly antioxidants, that your cells need to optimize their ability to deal with pollutants. �� has found supplementation with omega-3s, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folate, sulphorphane (broccoli, Brussel sprouts), vitamin E and D3 could help the body when exposed to pollutants. , found in blackberries, strawberries and pecans, may also be helpful.

10 Foods to Eat When Exposed to Wildfire Smoke, Suggested by Science

• Blackberries
• Broccoli
• Brussel sprouts
• Leafy green vegetables
• Nutritional yeast
• Pecans
• Sunflower seeds
• Salmon
• Strawberries
• Whole grainsFor more information on foods that might help reduce pollution, read this blog.

   

   

  References:

  Long-term health effects of wildfire exposure: a scoping review. .

  Comparative mask protection against inhaling wildfire smoke, allergenic bioaerosols and infectious particles. .

  Potted plants and ventilation effectively remove pollutants from tobacco smoke. .

  The botanical biofiltration of volatile organic compounds and particulate matter derived from cigarette smoke. .

  Phytoremediation for the indoor environment: a state-of-the-art review. .

  Nutritional solutions to reduce risks of negative health impacts of air pollution. .

  Ellagic acid prevents particular matter-induced pulmonary inflammation and hyperactivity in mice: a pilot study. .

The post 3 Holistic Ways to Protect You from Wildfire Smoke appeared first on CSNN National Page.

The post Kelly Ryan appeared first on CSNN National Page.

The post Katie Stewart, R.H.N. appeared first on CSNN National Page.

More than ever, experts are concerned about the critical gap in care for GLP-1 medication use for weight loss. Many people receive a prescription, but very little guidance on what to eat or how to prevent health-impacting muscle and bone loss. Nor are they offered strategies to deal with or avoid uncomfortable digestive issues.

GLP-1 medications are an incredibly powerful tool; simply eating less does not automatically translate to eating better.

This guide offers insights into ways to offer holistic support for GLP-1 weight loss, including simple lifestyle shifts that may help you feel your best.

What to Eat for GLP-1 Weight Loss: A Holistic Nutrition Guide

Whether you’ve just started taking a GLP-1 medication or have been using one for months, understanding how to support your body and mind can help you feel stronger, healthier, and more confident throughout the process.

1. Protecting Your Muscle: The Protein Priority

GLP-1 medications work wonders for suppressing appetite and reducing food cravings. However, when weight drops , a significant portion of that loss is from lean muscle – not fat. More than 25% of the weight loss on GLP-1 medications can be lean muscle mass.

Losing skeletal muscle can:

• slow down your metabolism
• decrease physical strength
• make maintaining your weight loss much harder down the road

To counteract this, prioritizing high-quality protein at every meal is essential.

How Much Protein Do You Need to Eat on GLP-1 Medication for Weight Loss?

While scientists describe a high-protein diet as 0.8g/kg of body weight, recent recommendations are higher for those on a GLP-1 weight loss medication – up to 1.5g/kg of body weight.

A more helpful and practical number may be to try to eat . If you’re eating 4 times a day, each meal would need to include 20 grams of protein at a minimum.

As such, getting enough protein in can start to feel like a full-time job. To help, seek out high-quality sources of protein, such as fish, poultry, lean meat, dairy, egg whites, nuts, seeds, beans, legumes and soy.

Of note, ideally pair this higher protein intake with regular resistance training.

2. Getting More, In Less: How to Avoid Nutritional Gaps on GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications

For many people, it’s liberating the way GLP-1 medications drastically quiet intrusive, constant thoughts about food (often called “food noise”). It can lead to positive changes like reduced emotional eating, fewer intense cravings, and less binge eating.

But there is a catch – you’re eating less – about 30 to 50% less. You now have to try to get all of your nutritional needs into fewer bites.

Your challenge now shifts from constantly fighting hunger to intentionally choosing foods that provide enough vitamins, minerals, and fibre.

When you are eating significantly smaller portions, every bite has to count. Research shows some alarming nutritional gaps among those using GLP-1 for weight loss. In a study that looked at the dietary intake of over 480,000 adults, the most common concern was low vitamin D levels, occurring in 7.5% of users by 6 months, and over 13% at 1 year.

What Nutrients Do You Need Most on GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications?

According to , some of the nutrients people on GLP-1 medications tend not to get enough of include:

• Vitamin D
• Iron
• Calcium
• Protein
• B vitamins

If fatigue is a challenge for you, a simple start would be to focus on foods or supplements that contain iron, vitamin D, and B vitamins – nutrients known to support energy metabolism.

3. The Power of Behavioural Nutrition Support

Simple shifts in mindset and behaviour can support a successful weight loss journey on a GLP-1 medication. Known as behavioural nutrition support, the following strategies can help the journey of weight loss on GLP-1 medication:

• Eating for nourishment: Fuel your body intentionally, even when your appetite signals are quiet.
• Rebuild cooking confidence: Find joy in preparing simple, nutrient-dense meals that support your new lifestyle.
• Create sustainable routines: Move away from restrictive diet mentalities and establish peaceful, consistent eating windows.
• Develop long-term habits: Lay the behavioural groundwork required to successfully maintain your weight and health over time, to support health after you stop GLP-1 medication use.

4. How to Deal with Nausea, Constipation and Other Gut Health Issues While on GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications

Nausea, constipation, and changes in digestion are common hurdles, especially when first starting a medication or increasing a dose. This is because GLP-1 is a hormone that slows the digestive tract. This slowing is helpful in many ways for weight loss, as it extends the feelings of satiety, but it also means food sits in the digestive tract longer.

Instead of just pushing through the discomfort, there are some holistic nutrition strategies that support gut health and motility:

• Size and Speed: Shift to smaller, more frequent meals and practice eating slowly to give your brain time to register fullness.
• Separate Liquids: Sip fluids between meals rather than drinking large amounts while eating to prevent overfilling your stomach.
• Gut Health: Consider the health of your gut microbiome – a greater diversity of microbes in the gut is linked with better gut function, reduced bloating, and

5. Sleep Is Important for Weight Loss

If you live a busy lifestyle, and sleep isn’t a top priority in your schedule, consider the importance of rest on your ability to cope with stress, emotions, and cravings. show better sleep health is associated with greater weight and fat loss. Luckily, there are many strategies to support sleep, naturally.

6. Mental Wellness, Body Image Shifts, and the Use of GLP-1 for Weight Loss

The has been taking note of the shift in mental health that can occur with the use of GLP-1 medications for weight loss.

While these medications can be a massive relief – lifting the heavy guilt of ‘failing’ at weight loss – they also bring a unique set of mental health challenges. They can intensify weight stigma and leave people feeling stuck in a no-win judgment trap:

• shamed by some for taking the ‘easy way out’.
• judged by others if they choose not to take them at all.

Understanding and being aware of these pressures is important in supporting mental wellness during GLP-1 medication use for weight loss.

In addition, scientists have seen that there can be a decline in while on GLP-1 medications. (Significant amounts of dopamine is created in the gut, where the increase in GLP-1 is eliciting change.) Dopamine offers you a feeling of reward, a common feeling when you indulge in those cravings.

As such, in GLP-1 medication use, there can be a loss of drive. Since you’re no longer being stimulated by eating, consider other ways to offer your brain cells pleasure.

Try engaging in physical exercise, creative outlets or learning something new to trigger positive feelings. For example, cooking classes offer a chance to learn something new while developing healthier eating habits with long-term benefits.

Where to Find Lifestyle Support while on GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss

Nutrition should never be an afterthought in GLP-1 care. As medical experts continue to call for formal nutrition guidelines for medication users, one thing is already crystal clear: medication alone is not enough.

Long-term success on GLP-1 medications for weight loss depends on:

• preserving your muscle
• maintaining nutritional adequacy
• supporting your digestive health
• developing sustainable lifestyle habits.

Working with a holistic nutritionist can help bridge this gap by providing personalized support for the physical, nutritional, and behavioural changes that accompany your weight loss journey.

Want to Help Others?

Become a Holistic Nutritionist – with flexible, online programs, you can start your journey to supporting others today.

Learn more…

Additional References:

The post Beyond Weight Loss: How to Feel Your Best While Taking GLP-1 Medications appeared first on CSNN National Page.

Stress can sometimes settle in your stomach feeling like a knot. You may have had stomach pain before a big deadline, or a loss of appetite during a busy week. Maybe you’re struggling with lingering digestive discomfort that you can’t quite explain.

You’re not imagining it. Digestive issues like IBS and other gut-brain disorders affect a significant portion of the population— according to a global study, it’s more than 40% of people. This highlights how closely stress and gut health are connected.

For years, many people experiencing these symptoms were told “it’s all in your head.” But science is now offering a clearer explanation. At the centre of this connection is the vagus nerve – a communication pathway between your brain and your gut that helps regulate digestion and your body’s response to stress.

When stress becomes constant, that communication can become disrupted. For some, this may show up as stomach pain, bloating, or irregular digestion.

The good news? Understanding this connection can help explain what you’re feeling—and more importantly, what you can do to support your gut health, starting with how you eat and how you manage stress.

What’s the Vagus Nerve?

The vagus nerve is the primary neural pathway connecting the brain and the gastrointestinal tract, forming a central component of the gut-brain axis. Originating in the brainstem, it extends through the thoracic cavity and into the abdomen, innervating key organs including the stomach, intestines, pancreas, and liver.

As part of the autonomic nervous system, the vagus nerve enables bidirectional communication between the central nervous system and the enteric nervous system. This signalling pathway plays a critical role in maintaining gut homeostasis, influencing gut motility and secretion, as well as immune function and inflammatory responses.

Disruptions in vagal signalling, often associated with chronic stress, can impair this communication. This contributes to altered digestive function and the development or exacerbation of gastrointestinal symptoms.

Vagus Nerve: The Rest-and-Digest Switch

The vagus nerve is the main component of the parasympathetic nervous system. When it’s functioning optimally, a state known as high vagal tone, it acts as a biological “on” switch for digestion. A healthy vagus tone can quickly shift from rest-and-digest to fight-or-flight. The vagus nerve coordinates processes like peristalsis, gastric secretion, and pancreatic functions. It allows your digestive system and your brain to stay in constant, real-time communication. It carries the signals that trigger the release of stomach acid, the secretion of digestive enzymes, and the rhythmic contractions (peristalsis) that move food through your system.

Understanding the Gut-Brain Axis

The gut and brain are in constant communication. Connected by the vagus nerve, the gut can tell the brain what’s it’s interactive with. Specialized cells, called enterochromaffin cells, found along the lining of the intestine, are connected to the vagus nerve. This allows them to send an immediate chemical message to the brain, according to new .

In addition, enterochromaffin cells can sense certain metabolites in the gut, such as short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), triggering them to produce serotonin. The amount of SCFAs in the gut is dependent on the dietary fibres in the diet, and the presence of certain probiotics. SCFAs are produced when certain probiotics degrade plant fibres (prebiotics). Serotonin produced by enterochromaffin cells can activate receptors in the vagus nerve and plays a role in digestive function and neural signalling. The serotonin produced in the gut, reaches the vagus nerve and eventually the rest of the central nervous system, impacting a variety of feelings, including hunger.

The Gut-Brain Axis And Stomach Pain

When communication along the gut-brain axis becomes dysregulated, a range of symptoms can emerge, especially those related to digestion, such as bloating, discomfort, and changes in motility.

One important factor influencing this communication is the balance of microbes in the gut. When beneficial bacteria are lacking, the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) can decline. This means enterochromaffin cells produce less serotonin. This shift can have big impacts as serotonin plays a key role in both digestive function and neural signalling, and it can activate pathways along the vagus nerve. When serotonin production is reduced, this signalling may become less efficient.

Stress is another major piece of the puzzle. Acute stress can temporarily shift the body out of a parasympathetic, “rest-and-digest” state. Over time, chronic stress may reduce vagal tone, making it more difficult for the gut and brain to communicate effectively.

Because the vagus nerve plays such a central role in coordinating digestion and gut-brain signalling, disruptions in microbial balance and ongoing stress can help explain why digestive symptoms are so common—and often persistent.

What is Vagal Tone?

The term “vagal tone” relates to working to shift the body from a “fight or flight” (sympathetic) state to a “rest and digest” (parasympathetic) state.

Stress can disrupt the excitatory-inhibitory balance within the vagus nerve. This is called low vagus tone. High vagal tone is associated with better heart rate variability (HRV), improved digestion, and a more resilient mood.

Nervous System Regulation Through Your Plate: Eating for the Vagus Nerve

Certain foods might help support your body better when you’re experiencing stress. In particular, making a shift to a Mediterranean diet may help. A plant-focused, healthy dietary pattern, such as the Mediterranean diet enriched with dietary fiber, polyphenols, and polyunsaturated fats, is well known to positively influence the gut microbiota.

In an observational study conducted in Alberta, found adults who adhered more to a Mediterranean diet (more vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, whole grains, and fish) had a better diversity and number of helpful microbes in their gut. In particular, there were more beneficial fiber-degrading bacteria.

Seaweed, green tea, cocoa, and salmon are just some of the foods research suggests might be worth eating.

For those with IBS, a low-FODMAP (fermentable oligosaccharide, disaccharides monosaccharides and polyols) has been shown to significantly improve symptoms, alter the gut microbiome and increase the presence of some helpful microbes. Although, note that a low-FODMAP diet may lower levels of Bifidobacteria (present in highest volumes in the lower intestine/colon) and butyrate (a metabolite produced by probiotics that is used as an energy source).

Beyond What You Eat: A Cortisol-Conscious Mealtime

While a well-planned plate can support a healthy gut microbiota, a holistic approach considers other lifestyle factors as well.

Eating on the run, and a Western diet aren’t really helping with nervous system regulation. When you are stressed, the body is in fight or flight mode, not rest and digest.

Even if you sit down to eat, are you scrolling on your phone or driving in a car? In our busy Canadian culture, keeps us in a sympathetic state, essentially “turning off” the vagus nerve during your meal. Without the rest, it’s hard to digest.

Cortisol-conscious eating is about more than just the menu; it’s about the environment. By practicing mindful eating – taking three deep breaths before your first bite – you can help trigger vagus nerve stimulation. This signals your body to move out of survival mode and into a state of nourishment.

Mindful Eating

involves shifting ones’ attention to the food you’re eating, and the act of digestion. An approach used by holistic nutritionists to support nervous system regulation, from Maryland University report mindful eating is a scientifically validated intervention to modulate the body’s stress response.

By consciously shifting the nervous system into a parasympathetic “rest-and-digest” state, mindful eating optimizes digestive function and nutrient assimilation. Since the gut is also a primary site for immune activity and hormone production, this regulation is not just a lifestyle choice that might help your gut feel better – it is a physiological cornerstone for wellness.

How to Improve Gut Symptoms

By understanding the gut-brain axis, it’s easier to understand the digestive symptoms so many Canadians struggle with. While the root cause of someone’s digestive distress can vary, considering the impact of the vagus nerve may be a helpful piece of the puzzle.

Are you ready to dive deeper? Learn more about the connections between our digestive health and our lifestyles to help yourself and others – explore the Natural Nutrition Diploma Program at CSNN – Canada’s leader in natural nutrition.

Become the expert your community needs.

References

Hwang YK, Oh JS. Interaction of the Vagus Nerve and Serotonin in the Gut-Brain Axis. Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Jan 29;26(3):1160. ()

Cherpak CE. Mindful Eating: A Review Of How The Stress-Digestion-Mindfulness Triad May Modulate And Improve Gastrointestinal And Digestive Function. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2019 Aug;18(4):48-53. ()

Wei L, Singh R, Ghoshal UC. Enterochromaffin Cells-Gut Microbiota Crosstalk: Underpinning the Symptoms, Pathogenesis, and Pharmacotherapy in Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction. J Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2022 Jul 30;28(3):357-375. ()

Wei L, et al. Enterochromaffin Cells-Gut Microbiota Crosstalk: Underpinning the Symptoms, Pathogenesis, and Pharmacotherapy in Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction. J Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2022 Jul 30;28(3):357-375. ()

Bonaz B, et al. The Vagus Nerve at the Interface of the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis. Front Neurosci. 2018 Feb 7;12:49. ()

Shah S, Mu C, Shen-Tu G, Rohmann N, Schlicht K, Laudes M, Shearer J. Influence of dietary components on the gut microbiota of middle-aged adults: the gut-Mediterranean connection. BMC Microbiol. 2025 Sep 6;25(1):573. ()

The post Can Stress Be Causing Your Stomach Pain? The Gut Health and Vagus Nerve Connection appeared first on CSNN National Page.

In Spring, nature hits the “reset” button, and your gut might be looking for support too. Yet, with social media trends like fibre-maxxing and detox diets around, understanding what’s the best way to do some spring cleaning for gut health can be confusing. If you’re wondering how much fibre should you eat, or if a detox diet is a good idea, keep reading. This article will dust off the myths to a healthier microbiome in a world of trends to help you do spring cleaning with confidence.

Is Fibre-Maxxing the Best Way to Rest Your Gut Health?

The term fibre-maxxing is gaining momentum on social media. While it sounds like a high-intensity gym program, fibre-maxxing is a trend that involves saturating your gut with fibre.

But, like most trends, while founded on a healthy concept (eating fibre is part of a healthy diet), it takes it to an extreme. Fibre-maxxing suggests eating 45 to 75g of fibre per day. That’s much higher than recommendations of 25 to 38g of fibre per day.

How Much Fibre Should You Eat?

Most of us eat about 14 grams of fibre a day – according to . That’s much lower than the minimum 25g recommended for adults.

If you’re an adult over 50, the encourages eating at least 25g of fibre to avoid constipation and reduce the risk of digestive tract illnesses. Why? As we age, the types of microbes in the gut microbiome tends to shift to less favourable microbes. With less (a type of helpful microbiota), the gut microbiome is less balanced, and symptoms such as constipation may occur.

There’s good news! Researchers investigated whether increasing the fibre intake among healthy adults to 40-50g per day for two weeks could support the microbiome. They noticed a shift in the types of beneficial microbes in the microbiome. The found the increase in fibre intake resulted in the presence of more fibre-degrading microbes, including species of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria.

Is Fibre-Maxxing Right for Everyone?

While the fibre-maxxing trend is encouraging the general population to think about increasing their fibre intake, it’s important to always consider a person’s individual digestive health and needs when choosing what’s the best dietary approach. People who struggle with conditions like IBS or SIBO, jumping into a diet that contains 50 grams of fibre may cause digestive discomfort.

The best way to increase the amount of fibre in your diet, is slowly. A gentler option, is to increase your fibre intake about 5 grams per week, giving your microbial community time to shift and adapt without causing distress.

Is Eating Fibre Helpful for Detoxing: The Gut-Liver-Axis

The gut-liver axis is a connection researchers are learning more about. The health of your digestive tract appears to directly impact your liver’s workload. That’s because the gut’s microbiome can impact the body’s toxic load.

How do gut microbes influence the liver? When gut bacteria fall out of balance (dysbiosis) unfriendly microbes thrive. Unfriendly microbes produce pro-inflammatory toxins, such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS). These toxins travel to the liver, adding extra stress to its daily filtration tasks. In some cases, bacterial overgrowth or the development of “biofilms” (protective shields used by bad bacteria) can even contribute to more serious liver concerns.

Eating more fibre supports the health of the gut microbiome. As such, if you’re researching the best detox diet, it should include sufficient fibre so you can promote a balanced gut microbiome, part of a healthy gut-liver axis.

Understanding the Science Behind “Detox Diets”

While the term “detox diet” often sparks debate in the scientific community due to a lack of rigorous clinical evidence, the biology of detoxification in the body is quite fascinating.

Our bodies possess sophisticated internal systems (primarily the liver and kidneys) with incredible capabilities to process and eliminate toxins. However our lifestyles tend to be high stress, low in fibre and nutrient-rich diets. Plus, we’re exposed daily to toxins (pharmaceuticals, cosmetic products, pesticide-containing foods, urban air pollution, alcohol and cigarettes smoke). As such, the liver and kidneys work daily to support natural detoxification processes.

There are some simple healthy lifestyle habits that can offer some support to the liver and kidneys while they detox your body. Eating a variety of plant-based foods not only offers the body fibre to support the gut-liver axis, it provides antioxidants and nutrients needed for the body’s to detoxifying harmful free radicals and other compounds.

11 Plant-Based Foods to Add to a Healthy Detox Diet

show that certain nutrients can support natural detoxification processes in the body. These nutrients can be found in many plant-based foods, including:

• Arugula
• Broccoli
• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Cauliflower
• Celery
• Chives
• Garlic
• Leeks
• Onions
• Parsley

Eating a diet that is rich in whole foods can support the health of the microbiome, as well as support many of the body’s natural detoxification processes.

Are Lemon Water Detox Diets Healthy?

While extreme, ultra-low-calorie protocols like “lemon water” or “saltwater flushes” (often limited to 500–1000 kcal per day) can trigger rapid weight loss, they frequently lead to nutrient deficiencies, increased stress, and a rebound effect on eating habits.

Best Way to Detox This Spring

One way to support your body this spring, is focusing on nutrient-dense, plant-forward foods. This sort of diet provides your liver, kidney and gut with lots of vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and fibre to help these organs to be at their best.

If looking for additional support, milk thistle has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to support liver health. Of note, the active ingredient in milk thistle is silymarin – the best supplements will be standardized extracts with labels listing the specific amount of silymarin per capsule.

Holistic Gut Health: Check List

If you’re looking to support your digestive health this spring, keep these holistic tips in mind:

Chew Well: Digestion begins in the mouth. Chews each bite well to mechanically break down tough fibers and large particles.

Mindful Movement: A 15-minute walk after lunch or dinner is a good habit to promote gut health this spring. In a randomized, controlled , involving 94 adults (32 to 56 years of age) who walked for 10-15 minutes after meals for 4 weeks. The participants noticed significant reduction in their abdominal bloating.

Check the Label: Some snack bars advertise being “high-fibre”. Always read the labels. Processed snack bars many use isolated fibers (e.g. chicory root) in high doses, which can cause more gas in some people. Snacking on whole foods, such as an apple or banana, may be a better option.

Eat More Whole Foods: Raspberries are surprisingly high in fibre. Sweet, delicious, and fun to toss in your mouth, these small berries can be a great fibre-rich treat. It’s amazing how much fibre can be found in many whole foods, including almonds, pears and celery. The best part, most of these whole foods are easy, portable snacks.

How to Improve Your Gut Health this Spring

If you’re wondering what’s the best way to improve your gut health this spring, remember that like most things, one extreme shift isn’t the answer. If you want to get the health result you desire, consider taking a holistic approach – focus on a few, simple ways you can improve your lifestyle habits to support your health goals.

Still, wondering if a detox diet is a good idea? The body is influenced by more than what you eat. Stress, sleep, movement and hydration also play a role in the body’s ability to detox itself.

Learn More…

A holistic approach to health can help support your body be at it’s best. At the , We’re here to help you flourish this spring.

Come learn more about holistic nutrition and wellness. Join one of our flexible courses, programs or workshops.

With in-class courses, online programs and interactive workshops there’s a learning opportunity to help you feel your best – and even, start a career as a Holistic Nutrition Practitioner.

Request a 91��Ƭ�� Today!

References

McDonald, D., et al. (2021). High-Fibre, Whole-Food Dietary Intervention Alters the Human Gut Microbiome but Not Fecal Short-Chain Fatty Acids. mSystems, 6(3), e00115-21. ()

Schroeder BO, et al. Bifidobacteria or Fibre Protects against Diet-Induced Microbiota-Mediated Colonic Mucus Deterioration. Cell Host Microbe. 2018 Jan 10;23(1):27-40 ()

Hosseini-Asl MK, et. al. (2021) The effect of a short-term physical activity after meals on gastrointestinal symptoms in individuals with functional abdominal bloating: a randomized clinical trial. Gastroenterol Hepatol Bed Bench. Winter;14(1):59-66. ()

Jung SJ, et al. Effect of toxic trace element detoxification, body fat reduction following four-week intake of the Wellnessup diet: a three-arm, randomized clinical trial. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2020 Jun 22;17:47 ()

Lampe JW, et al. (2000) Modulation of human glutathione S-transferases by botanically defined vegetable diets. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. Aug;9(8):787-93. ()

The post Spring Cleaning for a Healthier Microbiome appeared first on CSNN National Page.

GM tomatoes have been discovered in the produce sections of many stores owned by Loblaws in Ontario and Nova Scotia (Atlantic Superstore, The Real Canadian Superstore).

These tomatoes are not labelled as genetically engineered but carry the US mandatory logo for “bioengineered” food. The tomatoes are in a clear plastic box branded “Empress” from the Canadian company Red Sun Farms.

We need your immediate response.

Take Action Today

Tell Loblaws to remove GM tomatoes from the produce section.

If the company wants to sell genetically modified fruits and vegetables it should make a special section that is clearly labelled for customers.

• Write to the head office of Loblaws:Here is some possible wording: I am writing to ask Loblaws to stop selling genetically modified purple tomatoes from Red Sun Farms. Please commit to selling only non-GMO produce.
• Check your local store and report sightings to CBAN. Send us the location and your photos of the GM tomatoes, the price, and the outside of the store. Email Fionna at outreach@cban.ca
• Tell the produce manager you don’t want GM tomatoes in the store and ask them to tell the head office that a customer has complained.

This widespread, hidden GM product launch by Loblaw Companies is a serious threat to our food system. Companies are testing consumer tolerance for genetically modified (genetically engineered) produce. People across Canada need to let Loblaw know that GM fruits and vegetables are not acceptable in our produce sections.

Background

The genetically modified (GM or genetically engineered) is the first GM tomato since Monsanto removed its Flavr Savr tomato from the market in 1997. It is also 
the first GM tomato approved for growing in Canada and the first GM seed available to home gardeners.

The GM purple tomato was genetically engineered by inserting two genes from snapdragon flowers, to increase the plant’s anthocyanin production which also gives the tomato its purple skin and flesh. Anthocyanins are a type of flavonoid that has antioxidant properties, and that give blueberries and eggplants their vibrant colours. There are already many non-GM purple tomato varieties on the market, that have been bred using conventional breeding methods to contain higher levels of anthocyanins.

Now, there are four genetically modified fruits and vegetables currently on the market in Canada, with a very marginal presence in grocery stores: GM purple tomatoes, GM sweet corn, GM papaya, and GM pink pineapple. Until now, genetic engineering in our diets has been dominated by processed food ingredients from GM corn, GM canola, GM soy and GM sugar beet, but this is set to change.

Until the GM purple tomatoes, the only genetically engineered vegetable grown in Canada has been GM sweet corn, with seeds sold only in quantities for large-scale growers.

For more information see our report , Updated December 2025.

Take action at

The post Urgent Action Alert: Loblaws is selling GM tomatoes appeared first on CSNN National Page.