For many of us living in North America, wildfire season has become an expected part of summer. Some years are worse than others, but it’s becoming increasingly common to wake up to smoky skies. I have even gotten to the point where I am able to smell the familiar smell of wildfire smoke before there is any visible haze. The reality is that wildfire smoke can travel hundreds or even thousands of kilometers, affecting air quality beyond the active fire itself. Even if you are n

As summer approaches, longer days, warmer weather and more sunlight begin to grace our days. Here in Canada, where sunlight can be limited for much of the year, vitamin D plays an important (and often overlooked) role in our health. While many view vitamin D as just another vitamin, it is more accurate to think of it as a steroid hormone that plays a role in everything from bone health to immune function. Vitamin D is both a fat-soluble vitamin and a “hormone”, meaning it can

As the seasons shift, many people find themselves reaching for tissues more often than they’d like. Seasonal allergies can feel like an inevitable part of spring and fall, but understanding what’s happening in your body can make them much easier to manage. What Causes Seasonal Allergies? Seasonal allergies are triggered by environmental allergens that fluctuate throughout the year. Common culprits include: Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds Snow molds, especially as the sn