Vancouver Naturopathic Doctor Dr. Krista Moyer
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"Naturopathic medicine supports the 
body's innate ability to heal itself"

Brown Noise as an Insomnia treatment

8/9/2023

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Unveiling the Soothing Symphony of Brown Noise: 

A Look at Recent Scientific Research on its Impact on Overall Health and Insomnia

In a world filled with bustling cities, constant connectivity, and the relentless hum of modern life, the pursuit of tranquility has become a vital endeavor. As people increasingly seek natural remedies to combat stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders like insomnia, scientific exploration has delved into the realm of acoustic therapies. Among these therapeutic soundscapes, brown noise has emerged as a potential champion, promising to harmonize our minds and bodies in ways previously unimagined. In this article, we delve into the latest scientific research conducted over the last five years to understand the effectiveness of brown noise for overall health, with a specific focus on its role in alleviating insomnia.

The Spectrum of Sound
Before we dive into the research, let's unravel the essence of brown noise. Just as colors span a spectrum, sound too occupies a range that encompasses various hues or frequencies. Brown noise, also known as Brownian noise or red noise, belongs to a class of sounds characterized by its deep, rumbling quality. Unlike its close relatives, white and pink noise, which have equal energy per octave, brown noise boasts a unique feature: its energy decreases as frequency increases.

Scientific Studies and their Insights
  1. Enhancing Sleep Quality and Insomnia Treatment: Recent studies have explored brown noise's remarkable potential in the realm of sleep. Researchers at prominent institutions like the National Sleep Foundation and the American Sleep Association have investigated the effects of brown noise on sleep quality and insomnia. One such study published in the Journal of Sleep Research found that exposure to brown noise significantly improved sleep onset latency (the time it takes to fall asleep) and increased the duration of deep, restorative sleep. The soothing and consistent nature of brown noise is believed to create a calming environment conducive to sleep, making it a promising tool in combating insomnia.
  2. Stress Reduction and Anxiety Management: Brown noise's impact extends beyond sleep, with studies examining its ability to alleviate stress and anxiety. As reported in the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, researchers have observed a reduction in physiological stress markers, such as heart rate and cortisol levels, when subjects were exposed to brown noise. This suggests that brown noise may serve as a modality for stress management, potentially lowering the risk of chronic stress-related health issues.
  3. Cognitive Enhancement and Focus: The soothing qualities of brown noise also seem to have positive effects on cognitive performance. A study featured in the International Journal of Psychophysiology revealed that participants exposed to brown noise exhibited enhanced attention and focus, making it a potential tool for productivity and concentration.
  4. Pain Perception and Management: Emerging research has even touched upon brown noise's impact on pain perception. A study published in the European Journal of Pain explored the relationship between brown noise exposure and pain thresholds, hinting at a possible connection between soundscapes and pain modulation.

The Mechanisms at Play
While the precise mechanisms behind brown noise's influence on health and sleep are still being unraveled, several theories offer insights into its effects. One prevalent hypothesis is that the rhythmic and predictable nature of brown noise creates a stable auditory environment that promotes relaxation, reduces the brain's sensitivity to external stimuli, and encourages a smoother transition into various sleep stages. Additionally, brown noise's potential impact on the autonomic nervous system and stress response is a subject of ongoing investigation.

Conclusion
In the symphony of sounds that surround us, brown noise emerges as a potential maestro, orchestrating harmony between our minds and bodies. Recent scientific research has unveiled a series of promising findings, demonstrating brown noise's potential to enhance sleep quality, alleviate stress and anxiety, boost cognitive performance, and even modulate pain perception. As our understanding of the intricate relationship between sound and well-being deepens, brown noise stands at the forefront, offering a simple and accessible avenue to enhance overall health and address the challenges of insomnia. While further research is needed to fully unlock its mysteries, the captivating melody of brown noise continues to capture the attention of scientists, health practitioners, and individuals seeking solace in an increasingly noisy world.
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Unveiling the Evolving Trend: ADHD Diagnosis of Women in Their 40s

8/7/2023

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ADHD in Women
In recent years, there has been a significant shift in our understanding of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnosis. Traditionally perceived as a condition affecting primarily children and young boys, the landscape is changing, and a growing trend is emerging – ADHD diagnosis of women in their 40s.

​Symptoms Specific to Women

While the classic symptoms of ADHD include impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention, women often experience a distinct set of challenges that can remain unnoticed or misattributed for decades. These symptoms may include:
  • Inattention to Detail: Women may find it challenging to focus on tasks that require attention to detail, such as organizing, planning, or following through with tasks.
  • Emotional Sensitivity: Mood swings, heightened emotional sensitivity, and frequent emotional dysregulation can be prevalent in women with ADHD. These emotional fluctuations often impact their relationships and overall well-being.
  • Chronic Disorganization: Difficulty in maintaining an organized environment, forgetting appointments, and struggling to keep up with daily routines are common issues faced by women with ADHD.
  • Impaired Time Management: Women may struggle with time perception and time management, often underestimating the time needed for tasks or projects.
  • Social Challenges: Difficulties in social interactions, maintaining friendships, and understanding social cues can lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety.

Diagnosis: Navigating the Path
Accurate diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective management. Women in their 40s seeking a diagnosis for ADHD should consider the following steps:
  • Clinical Assessment: Consulting with a mental health professional or a qualified naturopathic doctor is crucial. A comprehensive assessment will involve a detailed medical history, symptom evaluation, and potentially the use of validated ADHD-specific questionnaires.
  • Labs to consider: CBC, Iron panel, Vitamin D, B12, Thyroid panel, Blood sugar (FBG, HbA1c, fasting insulin), Celiac (Anti-TTG)
  • Collateral Information: Gathering input from family members, partners, or close friends can provide valuable insights into an individual's behaviours and challenges.
  • Rule Out Other Conditions: It's essential to rule out other medical or psychological conditions that can mimic ADHD symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, thyroid disorders, or hormonal imbalances.

Evidence-Informed Treatments
While conventional treatments such as stimulant medications and behavioural therapy remain effective for ADHD, naturopathic approaches can provide a holistic and personalized treatment plan for women in their 40s:
  • Diet and Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and whole foods can support brain health and alleviate symptoms. Identifying food sensitivities or allergies can also play a pivotal role.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and adequate sleep contribute to better focus, mood stability, and overall well-being.
  • Supplements: Certain supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, melatonin, L theanine, iron, phosphatidyl serine, magnesium, and B-vitamins, can complement traditional treatments and support cognitive function.
  • Herbal Remedies: Herbal supplements like saffron, ginkgo, bacopa, and Rhodiola have shown promise in improving attention and cognitive performance.
  • Mind-Body Therapies: Yoga, meditation, and biofeedback can help manage stress, improve emotional regulation, and enhance focus.

Conclusion
The evolving trend of ADHD diagnosis in women in their 40s underscores the importance of a nuanced understanding of the condition. As a naturopathic doctor, I have the privilege of offering evidence-informed, personalized approaches that address the unique symptoms and challenges faced by women. By acknowledging the specific needs of this demographic and tailoring treatments accordingly, we can effectively support women to thrive with their ADHD diagnosis. 

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  • Home
  • Meet the Doctor
    • Published Articles Written by Dr. Moyer >
      • Histamine Intolerance
      • Eczema
  • Conditions
    • Women's Health
    • Anxiety/Depression
    • Immune Health
    • Skin Conditions
    • Digestive Health
    • Hormones
    • Pain Management
  • Services
    • Naturopathic Medicine
    • Acupuncture
    • Nutritional Counselling
    • Herbal Medicine
    • Hormone Replacement Therapy
    • Counselling
    • Food Sensitivity Testing
    • Genetic Analysis
  • BOOK ONLINE
  • Resources
    • Referrals
    • Diets
    • Diet Diary Chart
    • Patient Handouts
  • Blog
  • Contact