Naturopathic Medicine

Two years ago I developed an acute upper respiratory tract infection while travelling in China. While there I was treated with antibiotics & when I returned home my family practitioner and subsequently an ear, nose, and throat specialist prescribed 6 more courses of antibiotics over the next 18 months. The “bug” was definitely persistent and unfortunately every 4 to 6 weeks I would become sick again and again with chronic bronchitis, sinus, and ear infections. I thought that perhaps exploring “outside the Western medicine box” might be in order and was referred by a relative to Christina Cecconi at Acubalance to see if she could offer me some remedy.

During my initial consultation, Christina was warm and engaging and she made me feel extremely comfortable and at ease. Christina and I reviewed my entire medical history (all 59 years of it!) and she asked me some very thought-provoking questions about my general health and lifestyle choices. I have been moderately overweight almost my entire life and although I felt I was pretty active, I did not participate in any formal physical activity. I suffered from high blood sugar, high triglycerides, high cholesterol, and acid reflux, and am on several prescription medications to keep my numbers in check.

Christina’s first recommendation was a gentle 3 week detoxing cleanse to try to kick-start my immune system and to help rid my system of some of the toxins. At the same time, she began a weekly program of acupuncture directed at my areas of concern. Christina & I spoke at length about dietary issues and she recommended I read David Perlmutter’s book, Brain Maker, which really gave me insight on how good gut biome affects all aspects of your health. After completing the cleanse, I had not only lost 17 lb. but the acid reflux was completely gone and I was able to stop taking medication for it. During the next 3 months, I continued to see Christina weekly for acupuncture treatments for my URT issues, digestion, inflammation, fluid retention, and stress relief, as well as guidance and support for a more healthy diet and lifestyle. I am happy to report that I have had no chest or sinus congestion since my first visit with Christina, even though we had some dubious air quality in the Lower Mainland this summer.

My most recent blood panels indicated that my levels are now all well within the normal range and it is my hope that within the next few months my family practitioner will lower the dosage of some of my prescriptions, or perhaps take me off them altogether!

Christina really inspired me to take full responsibility for my health. She has encouraged me to add a fitness component to my routine and I now walk 4 km four times a week and attend yoga twice weekly. I have now lost 31 lb. and am continuing with a healthy lifestyle. I will be celebrating my 60th birthday in a couple of months and can honestly say that I haven’t felt better, both physically and mentally, in my life.

I can’t thank Christina enough for her guidance and support, and of course, her “magic” needles!

~ Jeanne