STEVESTON BUSINESS TO BUSINESS E-NEWSLETTER


This new FREE e-newsletter is published by Sunor Enterprises Ltd.
This FREE e-newsletter is is emailed throughout Steveston on a monthly basis. It includes New Businesses, Community Events and news of important "Happenings" in our community. If you would like to advertise a sale, your new business or any other community business events, send us an email at sunor@steveston.bc.ca . We will include it as space permits. We reserve the right to refuse any information deemed inappropriate.

Receive the newsletter by email, monthly, just send your email address to sunor@steveston.bc.ca and we will send you the latest happenings and more each month.


Send us your feedback!
This E-Newsletter is now in its 3rd year and its circulation is increasing each month. We are looking for feedback. Your input, as a reader, is very important to the success of this newsletter. It's intent is to keep the community working together. We would appreciate if you could take the time, and we welcome all questions, comments, or criticisms at: sunor@steveston.bc.ca or Tel/fax: 604-275-9452


NEW BUSINESSES and BUSINESS HAPPENINGS IN THE COMMUNITY

THE STEVESTON HOTEL

The Buck n' Ear Pub in Steveston held a major event this past Saturday Feb. 18th with over 600 people in attendance! We were fortunate enough to host the reunion party for Pacific Western Airlines! The Pub was packed and there was a line up down the street towards Moncton! Party goers had a great time as well as staff members! The event on a whole went off with out a hitch! Also a fair bit of money was raised to help support the Richmond Food Bank.

JOHN YAP, MLA - NEWS RELEASES

Visit John Yap's web site at www.johnyapmla.bc.ca

Richmond - The Richmond School District will receive funding to support its innovative literacy program, announced Richmond Centre MLA Olga Ilich, Richmond-Steveston MLA John Yap and the MLA for Richmond East, Linda Reid.

"Increased literacy has a big impact on the lives of students and their families," says Ilich. "When we invest in our youth, we are investing
in our future, and nothing is more important."

"I am pleased to see our government continue its commitment to funding education," says Yap. "This will enable us to help reach our goal to become the most literate, best educated region on the continent."

The Richmond School District will receive $100,757 for projects that will focus on elementary and secondary transition. The projects are aimed at improving the literacy for students in Grades Seven and Eight, a critical transition period between elementary and secondary schools.
The grant will also help to build school and classroom capacity, recognizing that schools are at different levels in their exploration of literacy.

"Literacy is an enormous focus for our government," says Reid.
"Assisting students as they move from elementary school to secondary school provides the tools for our young people to ensure they have a bright future."

All 60 school districts submitted proposals for literacy innovation funding. A team of literacy experts evaluated each proposal and considered both the scope of the project and the district's individual needs before determining the grant. Each district will receive funding for local literacy programs.

Since 2001, the Province has invested more than $50 million to support literacy, including: $12 million for public libraries, $10 million for textbooks, $5 million for the community program LiteracyNow, $3 million for the kindergarten readiness program Ready, Set, Learn, and $400,000 in matching donations to the B.C. Raise-a-Reader campaign.

Richmond - Richmond-Steveston MLA John Yap is welcoming the announcement of BC's first traffic safety helicopter, saying it will be a critical tool to fight street racing.

The Eurocopter EC-120B Colibri will be used by police for tracking suspected criminals at night. Nicknamed "Air One", the helicopter includes specialized equipment like an infra-red camera and a high-power light.

"Our police forces have been provided with a powerful new tool to fight crime and it will be particularly effective in tracking criminals trying to get away from crime scenes as well as excessive speedsters and street racers," says Yap. "Street racing is a serious problem in Richmond and the Lower Mainland in which too many have died, and it is my sincere hope that "Air One" will help to reduce the number of street
racing-related fatalities."

The cost of "Air One" is $2.2 million, which is funded through a joint traffic safety agreement between the Province and ICBC. The federal government also contributed to some of the helicopter costs. The helicopter will start regular flights in March, once crews have completed their training and orientation.

"I am pleased that our government is making this further investment in public safety which is a key priority for the people in our community,"
Yap added.

February 27, 2006 , Yap Calls for Mandatory Blood Testing for Emergency Personnel

VICTORIA – Richmond-Steveston MLA John Yap is calling for mandatory blood testing to protect emergency personnel exposed to bodily fluids while in the line of duty.

“This is an issue which is of great importance to the dedicated people who work in our public safety services, whether they are police officers, fire fighters, nurses, paramedics, other health care workers or correctional services,” says Yap. “From time to time in the course of doing their jobs, these people are exposed to the bodily fluids, most commonly blood. When such an exposure happens, there is the obvious concern as to whether the worker has been infected by an individual who may have a blood-related illness such as Hepatitis or HIV.”

Once a worker comes into contact with an individual’s bodily fluid, they are typically put on chemotherapy known as "the cocktail," a mixture of anti-retroviral pharmaceuticals which are administered over a period of time, typically from a few weeks to two months. Potential side effects of this cocktail include nausea, rash, fatigue and some damage to internal organs. Yap says if an emergency worker is tested due to a suspected infection that occurred during accident response, the level of anxiety and stress on the officer and his or her family is extraordinary.

“I've had the opportunity to meet with and talk to several police officers and have heard the personal stories of those who were actually confronted with such a situation,” Yap stated. “There are many moving, powerful stories which highlight for me the need to better support our public safety officers.”

Yap hopes the government reviews this issue to see if it can become mandatory; and to find a balance between the safety of our emergency workers, and the civil liberties of victims as well. Four other provinces in Canada recognize this need and have acted. Alberta, Nova Scotia and Saskatchewan have introduced similar legislation, with Ontario currently working on a Bill.

For more information: Brent Shepherd, caucus communications, 250.387-8589, Cell: 250. 661-3423

RICHMOND PEST MANAGEMENT - 604-313-2847

Our goal is to provide each and every customer effective pest management at reasonable rates. We pride ourselves on prompt, on-time response for every call. We know your time is valuable, we won't waste it. RPM guarantees all of our work in writing. For honest, reliable pest control, give us a call, you won't be disappointed. Kevin Lee, Owner

THE BEATMERCHANT MUSIC STORE

Opened in Historic Steveston in October 2005. We stock a wide range of vintage music from the 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's to the sounds of today.

In the month of March The Beatmerchant CD & DVD Store will be running 2 weeks of advertising as well as one week of competions and prizes on Richmond's CISLE 650 AM. CISLE 650's morning show DJ Gerry O'Day is a regular visitor to our store as is Rupert MacNee son of the 60's TV show star Patrick MacNee better known as John Steed of The Avengers. You never know who you might bump into at the Beatmerchant! Frankie Neilson, 604 204 0044, www.beatmerchant.com

SASSY LULU BOUTIQUE, 115-3900 Bayview St, Richmond, BC V7E 4R7. 604 448 9468

Fashion Show – Fundraiser for the Steveston Community Water Park. Enjoy the latest spring fashions from Sassy Lulu Boutique and help support the Steveston Community Center. This season’s colours are coral, ocean green, sunshine yellow, turquoise, dusty rose and khakis! Don’t miss this opportunity as last years show sold out early. Tickets are $25. Hair and Make-up styled by H2O on 2nd, mouth watering desserts by The Diplomat, Coffee by Algeria Café and many others. Single tickets are available at the community center. Also tables of 8 can be booked and reserved.

Jump into Spring with Bling. Local Artist Susie Kellof will be presenting her latest Spring Designs at Sassy Lulu Boutique. Semi precious stones and swarovski crystals dangling from sterling silver chains and double chain earrings just to name a few will be unveiled at the store! As a bonus treat we will be bringing in two makeup artists for advice on how to match outfits and makeup. Learn from the best. Treat yourself to a free makeover. They are being booked by the ½ hour appointment starting at 11 o’clock and going until 4 o’clock. To book an appointment visit Sassy Lulu Boutique at unit 115-3900 Bayview St or call 604 448 9468.

12TH HOUSE HEALING ARTS 604-271-HEAL (4325) Catherine Dean, LPN, CST, DCH

"In the heart of Steveston" www.12th-househealingarts.ca
Over 20 years experience in alternative health care. Services include Classical Homeopathy, BioEnergy Massage and Pleiades Astrology. Products include USANA Health Sciences, Wild Rose Herbal Cleanse, and Sense Skin Care. Call for more information. Let this be the year for a new healthier you! 12th House Healing Arts continues to expand service to Steveston and surrounding community. Support and healing is offered for your physical, emotional, mental as well as spiritual level of well-being. For information on Classical Homeopathy, BioEnergy Massage and Astrological readings contact www.12th-househealingarts.ca or 604-271-HEAL (4325)

STEPIN' OUT SHOES AND ACCESSORIES BOUTIQUE

3991 Moncton St, Steveston, B.C., 604-304-0602
Visit us at our new location and take advantage of our sale prices (discounts up to 70%) on our fleece lined boots from South Africa and our shoe designs from Montreal, Austria and New York.

Our spring shoe and purse collection is fabulous and arriving daily.

See our shoes for men, Trask from Brazil, the Austrian line of Tsubos, Sketchers and soon to arrive Kenneth Cole.

Hope to see you soon......."Shoes and Friends - you can never have too many"

Duane and Sue

BASIC NATURE HEALTH AND BODY STORE

New Product Announcement
Seabuckthorn
Anti-Aging Antioxidant Skin Care
A Natural Way of Being


-Voted by Enroute Magazine as the Number 1 Anti-Wrinkle Cream of 2005
-PLUS Seabuckthorn is on it way to the Juno’s – as part of the package to be received by this year’s presenters.
Now if you do not happen to be a presenter at the Juno’s but would like to find out about Seabuckthorn Skin Care – drop by Basic Nature Health and Body Store and ask to try the Hand Lotion or Skin Cream.

Sufferers of Acne, Rosacea, Eczema or Psoriasis will be pleased to know
Seabuckthorn has programs in place that can help heal your skin. Basic Nature customers have already tried these programs and have been happy to report back as to their success.

The Seabuckthorn Plant (Hippophae rhamnoides) is so rich in vitamins and nutrients that it has been speculated that the plant must have been cultivated by some ancient plant-breeder. The fruit, leaves, bark and seeds of seabuckthorn contain over 190 nutrients necessary to bodily functions. Clinical trials and scientific studies conducted during the 20th century in several countries are confirming the medicinal and nutritional value of Seabuckthorn. Basic Nature Health and Body Store dedicated to health and wellness

JET-LAG TRAVEL FASHION BOUTIQUE IN STEVESTON.

For Vacation, Everyday, Wedding or Evening wear - we have a great selection. Travel friendly easy care casual wear featuring Ezze Wear and French Dressing. Samsonite travel accessories. Fashion wear by Spencer Alexis, Leslie Belle, Bantry Bay and more. Just arrived for spring/summer- a palette of colours including lime green, turquoise, pink, yellow, coral and pastels.

2006 New lines just arrived - Spencer Alexis, Ezze Wear, French Dressing, Efforts Hempwear, Bfofo, Anu Bohemian fashions, and Samsonite accessories. More 2006 fashions arriving daily.

Sales continue with up to 70% off winter wear. Specials: 45% off Delane Handbags.

"Fashion Pilates with Yoga Stretch" Register Now for April. Winter session sold out! 2 classes to choose from, Sunday mornings 8:45 am - 10 am and 10:15 am to 11:30 am. With a focus on toning abdominal muscles and arms for women in mid life, 10 classes for $120. All levels welcome. Instructor Debbie Piro. Bring your own yoga mat and towel. Yoga mats also available for sale. Call 604-277-3331. Mastercard, Visa and Debit accepted.

Fundraising - looking for a way to raise funds for a team or special cause? Ask us how we can help you.

Come visit us at your friendly community store - where tea/coffee is always on. Find travel wear tips at www.jet-lagtravelfashion.com. See us before you see the world, or before you step out. Jet-lag Travel Fashion Boutique #110-12031 2nd Ave., Steveston Village, Richmond, B.C. (604) 277-3331.

Vicki Hodgson, www.jet-lagtravelfashion.com

PADDLEWHEELER RIVERBOAT TOURS

Travel Back To 1858 for the “2006 Candlelight Tour At Fort Langley’s National Historic Site”

Travel Back In Time And Witness The Events At Fort Langley On The Eve Of The 1858 Gold Rush.

Saturday April 1st, 2006 All tickets only $75.00 + GST

Our Cruise Departs At 3:00pm - Returning At 10:00pm And Includes:
: Return Trip New Westminster – Fort Langley On The Authentic Paddlewheeler “Native”
: A Delicious West Coast Style Salmon Buffet
: Admission to the Candlelight Tour
: Desserts Served on Return Trip

Call Today And Reserve Your Time In 1858 604-525-4465 Paddlewheeler Riverboat Tours At New Westminster Quay
Group Rates Available


RAINTREE SPA - March Feature Treatment: East Meets West

Say "goodbye to winter" in true head-to-toe fashion. Shed your winter skin with an Oriental Essence full-body polish, followed by Vichy shower massage and body milk application. Next, indulge in a Green Tea & Vitamin C Facial to detoxify and restore nourishment to your skin. Includes steam, cleanse, extractions, vitamin c mask, green tea mist, vitamin c moisturizer and neck & shoulder massage. 2 hrs - $175. Offer expires March 31//06. Can be pre-booked for the month of April. Phone 604-274-4426, #125 – No. 2rd, appointments@raintreespa.com

FROM ALL OF US AT H2O HAIR & NAIL CO.

Thank you to everyone for making 2005 a great experience and giving us the opportunity to assist with your needs. We wish everyone out there a year filled with blessings in every way.

June 2006 marks our 5 year anniversary in Steveston village! Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to many many more years with you.

TREASURE'S BOUTIQUE

Put on your sunglasses! With Spring just around the corner, and many of you planning a cruise or perhaps a trip South, the colour pallet of our new arrivals is bright, bold and delicious. Lime green, black & white, pink, tangerine and turquoise are all hot again this year and we are adding new items every week. All promise to be “Sassy and Classy”.

Visit Treasure’s Boutique and let Lynda or Barbara help you put together a dynamic look. We carry a number of new colourful lines, which include Ruby Cho, Christine Phillipe, Sportelle and Nancy Bolan.

Treasure’s is offering a 50% Sale on all merchandise until the end of March - savings you won’t want to miss. We carry a wide selection of sizes and styles of ladies apparel, plus a fabulous line of handbags, jewellery, scarves and shawls.

Visit Treasure’s Boutique at 12240 Second Avenue (at Bayview between Moncton and the Wharf).
Winter hours: Tuesday to Saturday 11.30 to 5.30 pm , Sundays 12.00 to 5.00 pm.

ELVES EMBROYERY - 25% OFF ON VESTS THIS MONTH

STEVESTON SEAFOOD HOUSE

Our newly renovated facility offers intimate dining for all your special occasions or private functions for up to 60 people. It is the same great delicious menu that features luxury in every bite. Steveston Seafood House, your Seafood Specialists.

COOL SECRET SPA

Is celebrating its 2nd year in business by offering an anniversary special of any two facials for 20 per cent off. Cool laser is a high technological machine which combines laser light and high frequency to oxygenate the skin and stimulate the production of collagen. It is the fastest growing new aesthetic service being offered throughout Canada and the US. Find out more by login on to www.coolsecretspa.com or calling 604 803 5359.

HORTON ART EXHIBITION - The Petley-Jones Gallery

Is Proud to Present
~Coastal Memories~
“A Point of View” Oil on board 14” x 24” Paintings by ‘celebrated’ Steveston Marine Artist John Horton CSMA

The exhibition opens to the public on March 23 and continues until April 3, 2006, www.petleyjones.com
inquries@petleyjones.com, 2235 Granville Street, Vancouver BC V6H 3G1 Ph: 604-732-5353 1-888-732-5353 Fax: 604-732-5669

THE ARTS CONNECTION

12191 First Avenue, Richmond, BC V7E 3M3, Phone: 604-241-0141 Fax: 604-241-0400, MRS. HENDERSON PRESENTS! - Richmond International Film Festival at Richmond Centre Theatre on Wednesday, March 15th at 7:30 pm. Support the film festival and its support of Richmond Artists! Sponsored by the Community Arts Council of Richmond. Tickets $9.00 at the door. www.theartsconnection.ca

GROWING TO SERVE YOU BETTER!
In March, The Arts Connection will be addition a third location to the Steveston map! A beautiful, new music school will open at #160-3900 Steveston Hwy (at Minato Village - Steveston and #1 Road). Five lovely, large studios will allow the busy music school to continue its growth as it provides instruction in piano, violin, viola, guitar, flute, voice, drums and trumpet for ages 4 to adult. Come by beginning March 20 between 1pm and 9 pm and see this exciting new centre. For information call: 604-241-0141 and check out our website at www.theartsconnection.ca

PADDINGTON STATION FINEARTS PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE - GROWING TO SERVICE YOUR CHILDCARE NEEDS!
The relocation of The Arts Connection's music studios to Minato Village will now allow the popular Paddington Station Finearts Preschool to expand its childcare service. Do you work rotating shifts, or do you job share? We have a flexible schedule to service your childcare needs. We are currently pre-registering our existing students and their siblings for Sept. 06, but if you require space, please call us beginning March 20 to see how we can help you. Our award-winning finearts program is one of a kind and provides your child with care in a stimulating environment. 604-241-0141
www.theartsconnection.ca

CELEBRATIONS! THE PARTY PLACE
Since its opening in November, "Celebrations" has been a beehive of activity as word spreads about its outstanding selection of party supplies. From over a dozen children's theme-based products (including Hot Wheels, Spiderman, Chicken Little, Strawberry Shortcake and many more), to baby shower, adult birthday and 1st birthday items--the store can provide everything you need to make your special day a fond memory! Gifts also available to compliment the themes and a huge selection of helium latex and mylar balloons (including new "singing" helium mylars). You can also have us arrange your child's party for you at The Arts Connection. Great themes and everything you need to make it a success: beautiful cakes made from healthy, natural products and custom designed by Sugar Art Bakery; goody bags; balloon bouquets; special food packages. Call 604-448-3000 for details and check out our website at www.theartsconnection.ca (under "Birthday Parties")

SUPPORT RICHMOND ARTISTS AND VISIT "COURTYARD GALLERIA" -- STEVESTON'S HIDDEN TREASURE!

Operated by The Community Arts Council of Richmond, Courtyard Galleria features all sorts of beautiful hand-made items that are ideal for all of your gift-giving needs. Why not buy something unique and special rather than chain store items? We have pottery, jewellery, textile arts, glassware, paintings, cards and much more. Pay us a visit Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. #150 - 3500 Moncton Street in Heritage Court. 604-241-2790

SATORI INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CENTRE

12004 No.1 Road Richmond BC, Tel: 604 274 7224
Web: www.satoriintegrativehealth.com. Now offering services in chiropractic, acupuncture, counselling, massage therapy and homeopathy. Call today for an appointment.

www.OwnaNiceHome.com

Deb Robson – Re/Max Westcoast – 604-328-3507
Diane Cardoso – Prudential United Realty Jesani – 604-218-1412
Over 30 years combined experience…
2 Top Real Estate Professionals….2 Top Companies …. ready when YOU are! www.ownanicehome.com

TURNING POINT WELLNESS CENTRE

Would like to announce the arrival of a new therapist to our team, Marcia Roland. Marcia will be starting in January and we are looking forward to working with her, she will be working Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
Turning Point Wellness Centre is open 6 days a week and offers a variety of services, which include: Massage therapy, Acupuncture, and Consegrity. All our therapists are registered and our treatments can be claimed on most extended health plans.

Turning Point Wellness Centre expanded last May to include Raise the Bar Rehab and Fitness Centre, which is located right next door. Raise the Bar offers a variety of classes from Iyengar yoga, Pilates, core strengthening, to interval training. The Centre also offers seminars throughout the year on a variety of topics. The Main goal of Raise the Bar is to offer personal attention in classes by keeping class size small, the maximum in any class ranges from as low as 4 to as high as 10.

To see what is happening at the centre check out our web page at www.turningpointwellnesscentre.com if you have any questions please call us at 604.275.4641 and one of our team will happily answer your questions.

MIKE'S TAX SERVICE

We offer a full tax preparation/efile service and Small Business consulting with emphasis on new start-ups. We have been operating in the City’s of Richmond for fourteen (14) years and are going into our fifth (5th) year at the Steveston location and look forward to serving you again this year. For further information, call our Toll Free Line: 1-866-864-8934.

www.The RichmondPhoneGuy.com

Fast and Friendly Service. Specializing in phone-line(s) management and computer networking within the home/small office environment, I do custom work such as jack installations, jack repairs and changes. You get direct access to an experienced and knowledgeable Installation and Repair technician at affordable rates. If your line is in trouble, or you're needing jacks added, moved or repaired, call 604 275-3548 for service.....by Appointment. Free estimates on residential work within Richmond. Seniors qualify for discounted labour costs. Find me Online at Superpages.ca (Business Directory: - look for 'Phoneguy' and 'BC' ) or in the Directory of Richmond/South Delta, look under 'Telephone Service - Local' . Proud Member of the Richmond Chamber of Commerce. Licensed and Insured in the City of Richmond. Available for Emergency call-outs. To learn more, visit:http://www.TheRichmondPhoneGuy.com

STEVESTON VILLAGE GALLERY ONLINE

Get ready for the new Steveston Village Gallery online! The new www.stevestonvillagegallery.com will be launched mid April with our first set of online artists. You will be able to use the website as a catalogue and then call us or email us and we will be there to bring the pieces to your home so you can see them in your space up close!

Many thanks to all those who joined us for the show ’Winds of Change’. We still have fabulous paintings in the gallery until the third week of March.

Our hours for March will be 12 to 4pm Monday to Friday. Outside of gallery hours we will be available by phone (604)241-5771 or email tfisher@sprint.ca or tamaka@stevestonvillagegallery.com

It’s official! Our physical gallery at 3900 Bayview will be gone as of March 31 and we will be doing business by phone and the internet! With spring around the corner it is an appropriate time for REBIRTH! Tamaka Fisher
www.stevestonvillagegallery.com (604)241-5771 email tamaka@stevestonvillagegallery.com

SEASCAPE GIFT BASKETS Your one stop shop for Gourmet Gift Baskets.

Our Gourmet Gift Baskets make the perfect gift for all occasions. Order your gift baskets for Easter and Mother's Day. We allow you to do your online shopping easily and quickly from the comfort of your own home. Send that special gift that everyone loves to receive and it have it personally delivered within the Lower Mainland. We also ship throughout BC and Canada.

Do you need gift baskets for individuals or large groups. We offer the perfect "corporate gift". Our baskets can be customized by adding Mineral waters, Non Alcoholic wines or quality BC VQA wines, as well as choosing from our selection of options to make your gift truly unique. If you have special requirements, please e-mail us or call us. We would be pleased to assist you.

Our website is user friendly and easy to navigate. Please check us out at: www.seascapegiftbaskets.com.We would like to thank everybody for their support.

PANGAEA CLINIC OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE

- Dr Eric Chan. 120-12011 Second Ave, Steveston Village, Richmond, BC
www.pannaturopathic.com, 604-275-0163
The Buzz in Anti-Aging Medicine is Bio-identical Hormone Replacement

Bio-identical hormone replacement has recently experienced an explosion in public-awareness, largely in part to Suzanne Sommer's book on her own experience with natural hormone therapy. Holistically and preventively-minded physicians have also had long experience in the use of hormone replacement with not synthetic, one-size-fits-all drugs, but rather with individualized, bio-identical hormone formulas based on each individual patient's biochemical and hormonal profile.

One of the main biochemical signs of aging is the trend towards excesses of certain hormones and deficiencies in others, leading to symptoms that can be as numerous as:

  • fatigue
  • dry skin
  • constipation
  • mental fog
  • lack of sex drive
  • impotence
  • painful intercourse
  • insomnia
  • difficulty waking up
  • osteoporosis
  • hot flashes

  • The key to the symptoms is the fact that the hormones are out of balance, as opposed to outright being deficient. For example, in the peri-menopausal years, progesterone can decline more rapidly than the estrogens, and thus just using the estrogens can make things worse. Furthermore, many females experience menopause without any significant symptoms or stress, whereas others have a very poor quality of life. The difference is often not in the sex hormones estrogen or progesterone, but in the adrenal hormones DHEA, pregnenolone, and cortisol.

    Measuring a patient's "position" in aging with respect to the bio-identical hormones can be complex, but it is well worth the effort. Treatments are much more individualized, and the goal is to get back to a younger hormonal profile, as opposed to simply blindly using a synthetic hormone to cover symptoms. For example, for a patient who is suffering from poor quality of life due to menopause, the conventional approach is to simply give conjugated equine estrogens and sometimes a synthetic progestin called medroxyprogesterone acetate. The major problem with this is that the female body actually produces three different types of estrogens:

    Estriol or E3: is the weakest of the estrogens, but has shown some anti-cancer effects and protective effects
    Estradiol or E2: is the most potent of the estrogens made by the body
    Estrone or E1: actually may directly contribute to cancer through its 4-OH metabolite

    Thus, the use of synthetic hormone derivatives, although powerful, cannot be considered to be putting the body into balance. The ideal approach is to measure the three estrogens and see where the patient is at as an individual, and then adjust and balance hormones accordingly. Sometimes this can be done without hormones, and sometimes hormones are needed. Many female patients were taken off of the synthetic HRT by their family doctors because of a recent Women's Health Initiative study; however that study used synthetic hormones without regard to a patients individual, comprehensive hormone profile. As such, it cannot be compared to natural bio-identical replacement. Furthermore, there is some evidence, although the studies are small, that certain hormones actually protect against the risks of cancer and heart disease which were increased with the synthetic hormones.

    By far the most important anti-aging, health-promoting hormonal assessment and optimization that can be done involve the thyroid hormones and the adrenal hormones. Once again, in functional and biological medicine we look at the actual hormone levels and then treat accordingly.

    For example, for someone who is starting to feel very tired, run-down, and really has no motivation, we may consider looking at the thyroid hormones. In conventional medicine, only one thyroid related hormone is used to screen for hypothyroidism, which is the TSH. And only one thyroid hormone is used to treat, T4 (or synthroid). Ideally, the TSH, free T3 hormone, free T4 hormone, reverse T3 hormone are all checked to get a better, more holistic picture of what is going on in the body. Natural means to increase thyroid function are used, and natural thyroid hormones can be used also. Sometimes simply helping the conversion of the T4 (whether produced by the body or if the patient is taking synthroid) into the far more active T3 is enough to get the patient feeling much more energetic. It is always also checked to see if heavy metals are impairing thyroid function, as often once the metals are removed thyroid function improves on its own.

    In the adrenal realm, measurement of pregnenolone, morning cortisol, afternoon cortisol, and morning DHEAS can give a wealth of information as to whether or not unhealthy age-related changes can affect how much stress, anxiety, and energy a patient is feeling. In complicated cases, checking the actual rhythm of adrenal hormone secretion is done through salivary testing at 4 times during the day. When the health of the adrenal glands in improved through nutrition, IV vitamins, hormone and glandular replacement, patients feel more energy and less frequently feel anxiety and stress. Sugar control improves. Quality-of-life, and health in general improves.

    In the realm of bio-identical hormone replacement, it is very important that a proper baseline assessment be done. Sometimes all the symptoms are present but there is no indication of an imbalance and there is actually another cause to be found. Importantly, the assessments are done at specific times of the day, and sometimes of the month (for cycling females). Most of the tests are non-conventional and need to be sent to specialized labs. Good anti-aging workups will consist of the following:

    Males:

  • androstenedione
  • estradiol
  • progesterone
  • cortisol (AM and PM)
  • DHEAS
  • DHT
  • Pregnenolone
  • Sex hormone binding globulin
  • testosterone (free, total, bioavailable)
  • TSH, free T3, free T4, reverse T3, TPO antibodies
  • fasting insulin
  • IGF-1 or growth hormone
  • melatonin

  • Females:
  • estradiol
  • estrone
  • estriol
  • progesterone
  • pregnenolone
  • DHEAS
  • cortisol (AM and PM)
  • Sex hormone binding globulin
  • testeosterone
  • TSH, free T3, free T4, reverse T3, TPO antibodies
  • fasting insulin
  • IGF-1 or growth hormone
  • melatonin

  • This is quite the comprehensive work-up, and in no way would we run all the tests for every patient. If a patient was simply sick and needed to get better, from the history and physical we streamline our approach and possibly look at toxicities also. However, in anti-aging approaches, for prevention and optimization of health, we want a very holistic and comprehensive picture. As such, for the generally healthy patient who just seems to be aging faster than he or she should, this type of approach gives us the power to see what is going on individually and then we can treat accordingly.

    If you (or someone you know) are interested in a hormonal approach to your health (or for anti-aging purposes), please call the office and book an appointment with Dr Ward. She has recently updated her knowledge at the International Hormone Society meeting in Las Vegas and will be able to help assess from an anti-aging perspective.

     

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