Victor Halioua, a Vancouver-based Natural Health Consultant, will answer your health care questions weekly! Victor holds a diploma as a Natural Health Consultant from Stratford Institute with an indepth understanding of the body and mind's major functions. Knowledgeable with natural diet remedies, herbs and health supplements as well as Yoga and meditation, Victor concedes that "I, myself have struggled in the past with my health so I'd like to share with people what I've learned. I believe we need to become our own healer and learn to take control of our health." Here's to your health!

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What necessary vitamin and mineral supplement would you recommend for a person to take on a daily basis if his/her goal is to lose weight? Is it chromium, omega 3-6, CLA, green tea extract, or B12? Please be specific. Thanks.    Maria, Vancouver

ANSWER: Traditionally, there are three basic approaches to weight management. First is the use of diuretic herbs to reduce water retention (i.e.dandelion, alfalfa, yarrow). Secondly, are the lipotropic supplements to reduce cholesterol and fat (flax oil, salmon oil, evening primrose oil). And third is the use of natural appetite suppressants (guarana, kola nut, ephedra used with caution). While chromium reduces sugar cravings and stabilizes blood sugar, permanent weight loss requires a lifetime commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Since everyone is different that means exercise, diet, and water intake which is specifically suitable for each individual. Hope this helps.

What can I do for my sore throat?

ANSWER: Most sore throats are caused by viral infections such as the common cold. Bacterial infection especially streptococcus infection, can also be responsible. Additionally, any irritant such as dust, smoke, fumes, extremely hot food or drinks, tooth or gum infection can bring on a sore throat. Helpful nutrients include zinc lozenges, vitamin C, bee propolis, garlic and echinacea. Drink plenty of liquids, gargle with sea salt.

How do I get rid of my insomnia?!

ANSWER: Insomnia can result from many things. Physical pain, stress, grief, caffeine, indigestion, muscle aches, drugs like pseudoephedrine found in cold medication, and many antidepressants,t hyroid hormone replacement drugs, etc. Avoid coffee and large amounts of alcohol, and eating late at night. Take calcium and magnesium before bed. Herbs like valerian and the hormone melatonin 1 mg or less is very useful.

What would you recommend for a women in her mid-thirties who eats very healthy, takes supplements and yet finds her hair has been thinning quite a bit? She wants to increase hair growth and amount at the cellular level.   Helen, Vancouver

ANSWER: Hair thinning/hair loss has no clear cause as far as the research shows but some scientists believe the immune system mistakes hair follicles for foreign tissue and attacks them. Many suspect a genetic component. I believe that to be so as I look at my siblings - some have great thick hair and others are thinning early. Besides heredity, factors that promote hair loss include poor circulation, surgery, iron deficiency, stress, acute illness, vitamin deficiencies and hypothyroidism.

Eat foods high in Biotin and /or take Biotin supplements. Biotin is needed for healthy hair and skin and may prevent hair loss. Also,silica is good for healthy hair. I prefer the Silica Gel from health stores. Massage your scalp daily,and lie on a slant board 15 minutes a day to allow the blood to reach your scalp. Avoid harsh chemicals in shampoos, try natural brands. Avoid rough treatment. Don't use a brush or fine tooth comb or towel dry your hair if it's really bad. Let it dry naturally and use a pick to put hair in place. Finally,if you're losing large amounts of hair see a physician.