menstrual cramps

Cramps but No Period? 9 Possible Causes

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Menstrual Cycle

Cramping but no period? There are several gynecological and non-gynecological reasons you may be experiencing cramping. But is it normal to have cramps but no period? While they may be harmless, it’s always worth investigating the root cause of having cramping but no period to ensure your symptoms aren’t more serious. Menstrual cramps are common, especially for women experiencing estrogen …

supplements for pcos

10 Best Supplements For PCOS

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: PCOS, Sex Hormones

Patients often ask me to suggest some of the best supplements for PCOS, which is a complex endocrine disorder that can cause a long list of hormonal symptoms. While the foundational therapies remain nutritional and lifestyle intervention, supplements can help support your efforts to restore balance. Many women are looking for alternatives to the typical lineup of prescription drugs, which …

Birth Control Pills and Breast Cancer

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Birth Control

I remember reaching my ten year anniversary with the pill and feeling a deep concern about my own health. Especially as it related to birth control pills and breast cancer. You see, many experts have concluded that the longer we are exposed to high dose estrogen the higher the risk of developing estrogen-related cancers.  We’ve known there is a risk …

Sore Breasts: What Causes Breast Tenderness?

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Wellbeing

Do you often suffer from breast tenderness when it’s that time of the month? Do you experience soreness or pain in a specific area of your breasts that keep you from enjoying going out or being active?  You’re not alone. 50% of all women will experience breast pain at some point in their lives, according to the Breast Health Centre. …

functional medicine chris kresser

Functional Medicine – An Interview with Chris Kresser

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Wellbeing

I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with Chris Kresser on more than one occasion about the serious state our health care is in and the role of Functional Medicine. Chris and I share similar views about the need for allied providers, like nutrition consultants and health coaches, in supporting those with chronic disease and the necessity of returning to a …

7 Thyroid Symptoms Most People Don’t Know About

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Thyroid & Hormone Balance

Thyroid gland problems can range from weight gain to hair loss to depression, but these 7 thyroid symptoms are less recognized and often missed by many doctors. Related product: Thyroid Support 7 Thyroid Symptoms Most People Don’t Know About #1. You may not taste or smell things the same if you’re hypothyroid.  Too little thyroid hormone can cause alterations to …

bone broth recipe

Hot and Sour Bone Broth Recipe

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Food

Looking for a bone broth recipe that is simple and effective at maintaining your health during winter months? My clinic’s nutritionist, Erica, created this delicious bone broth recipe to support our patients as we prepare to go into winter months. Bone broth is a rich source of immune supporting minerals and vitamins, which is why many people choose to make …

Non-Hormonal Birth Control – Alternatives To The Pill

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Birth Control

There are several non-hormonal birth control options and alternatives to the pill. Perhaps you, like many women, are experiencing symptoms associated with the pill like depression, nausea, low sex drive or headaches. Or perhaps you’ve got a sneaking suspicion that your adrenal and thyroid issues may be linked to the pill. Or maybe you were given the pill to treat …

Does the Birth Control Pill Cause Adrenal Fatigue?

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Birth Control

“Does the birth control pill cause adrenal fatigue?,” Charlotte, a 31 year old patient at my clinic asked. As a women’s health expert that specializes in helping women with the side effects and long-term consequences associated with the birth control pill, this is a question I hear often. Charlotte, like many other women, had become concerned about what role the …