In today’s world of 24/7 food delivery, snack aisles longer than highways, and endless social media food reels, it might feel like your appetite is constantly working against you. But here’s the truth: it’s not your fault—it’s your brain.

Let’s explore how your primal brain and your modern brain are in a constant tug-of-war over what, when, and how much you eat.

The Primal Brain: Designed for Survival

Your primal brain (also called the reptilian or limbic brain) evolved hundreds of thousands of years ago when food was scarce and survival was the name of the game. It’s responsible for:

• Seeking out high-calorie foods (sugar, fat, salt)

• Triggering hunger hormones like ghrelin

• Storing energy as fat in case of famine

• Releasing dopamine for eating—especially comfort foods

This system kept our ancestors alive. But in today’s food-rich environment? It can backfire.

The Modern Brain: Logical, But Outmatched

Your modern brain (aka the prefrontal cortex) helps you make rational decisions. It’s where your willpower, planning, and self-awareness live. This part of your brain:

• Knows what foods are “healthy”

• Sets goals (like losing weight)

• Tries to resist cravings (but has limited capacity and can be lazy)

But here’s the catch: your primal brain reacts faster. It’s instinctual, emotional, and wired for now, not long-term plans.

Why This Matters

That overwhelming urge to grab chips after a stressful day? That’s your primal brain talking.
Trying to “just use willpower” is like bringing a butter knife to a sword fight.

Understanding this inner conflict helps us approach appetite and weight struggles with compassion, not blame.

So, What Can You Do?

Here are some science-backed ways to support your modern brain and calm your primal instincts:

Create structure: Routines and meal plans reduce decision fatigue
Prioritize protein & fiber: They help keep you full and stabilize hunger hormones
Meal Frequency: Going too long without eating can dysregulate the system and trigger the primal brain
Meal amount: Large calorie deficits trigger the primal brain. Slight deficit (~200 calories) works best for sustainable weight loss
Sleep well: Poor sleep = more ghrelin (hunger) and less leptin (fullness)
Manage stress: Chronic stress ramps up cortisol and emotional eating
Medical support: Some medications (like GLP-1s) target the primal drive and reduce appetite at the source

Final Thoughts

Appetite isn’t about weakness. It’s about biology.
Your brain is doing what it was designed to do—it just wasn’t built for the world we live in now.

The good news? With awareness, compassion, and the right tools, you can take back control—and work with your brain, not against it.

• Have more questions or concerns? Our pharmacists are happy to assist. Ask your questions here
• Book an appointment for initial consultation here to develop a personalized plan

The post Primal vs Modern Brain (5-minute read) appeared first on Central Point Pharmacy.

Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, primarily in tropical regions. For decades, travelers have relied on the yellow fever vaccine to protect themselves from this potentially life-threatening illness. Following review of the evidence starting in 2014 there have been significant changes in recommendations from WHO (World Health Organization), CDC (Centre for Disease Control), IHR (International Health Regulations) and Canadian Immunization Guidelines.

Yellow Fever Vaccination History

Yellow fever has long been a concern for travelers, with traditional vaccination protocols requiring booster shots every 10 years. This approach was based on the assumption that immunity wanes over time. According to WHO of 600 million doses of the vaccine given since vaccination programs began in the 1930s, only 12 cases of post-vaccination yellow fever cases have been identified. All of the “vaccine failure” cases occurred within 5 years of vaccination, which suggests that immunity does not wane over time.

Up to Date Recommendations

According to WHO, “The yellow fever ‘booster’ vaccination given ten years after the initial vaccination is not necessary. An article published in WER (WHO’s Weekly Epidemiological Record) reveals that the Organization’s SAGE (Strategic Advisory Group of Experts) on immunization has reviewed the latest evidence and concluded that a single dose of vaccination is sufficient to confer life-long immunity against yellow fever disease.”

Dr Helen Rees, past chair of SAGE had this to say “Looking at really very good evidence, it was quite clear to SAGE that in fact a single dose of yellow fever vaccine is effective. This is extremely important for countries where yellow fever is endemic, because it will allow them to reconsider their vaccine scheduling. It is also important for travelers.”

Booster Recommended

The Committee to Advise on Tropical Medicine and Travel (CATMAT) recommends

One-time booster dose for certain cases where:

1. Response to vaccination may have been diminished

2. Previous dose might not have provided long-term protection

3. High risk of exposure

Booster recommended every 10 years:

CATMAT doesn’t currently provide specific recommendations for a booster dose in children who received the yellow fever vaccine before the age of 1 year. Re-immunization for such children traveling to areas with YF transmission risk is based on clinician assessment of risks and benefits.

FAQs About Lifelong Yellow Fever Immunity

Q: Do individuals who have received the “old vaccine” acquire lifelong immunity?

A: Yes, this is a misconception. The Yellow Fever vaccine has not changed in Canada.

Q: Are there any side effects associated with the “new” lifelong vaccine?

A: It is the same vaccine with no additional side effects, they remain the same.

Q: Will countries still require vaccination certificates?

A: The ICVP (International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis or “yellow card”) will still be required, but only with a single dose of yellow fever vaccination. In 2016 the IHR were amended to indicate a completed ICVP with a single dose of yellow fever vaccine is valid for a lifetime. Countries can’t require proof of revaccination against yellow fever as a condition of entry, even if the last vaccination was greater than 10 years prior.

Conclusion

Understanding the latest recommendations on Yellow Fever could help avoid the hassle and cost associated with obtaining booster shots.

NB: While yellow fever vaccine provides long-lasting protection, it does not eliminate the need for preventive measures against mosquito bites. Mosquito repellents, long-sleeved clothing, and bed nets remain essential in regions where yellow fever is prevalent.

• Have more questions or concerns? Our pharmacists are happy to assist. Ask your questions here
• Request a complimentary price quote and travel vaccine/medication recommendations here
• Book an appointment for consultation and administration here

The post Yellow Fever Immunity Now Lifelong (5-minute read) appeared first on Central Point Pharmacy.

As you prepare for your trip, don’t forget one crucial aspect of travel planning: vaccinations. Taking the necessary vaccines before your journey is essential to protect yourself from diseases and ensure a safe trip. We will explore the importance of timing before a trip for vaccinations. Let’s dive in and discover how to make the most of your pre-travel vaccination strategy!

Why Are Travel Vaccinations Important?

Before we delve into the timing aspect, let’s first understand why travel vaccinations are important. When you travel to different regions or countries, you may encounter diseases that are uncommon or even nonexistent in your home country. By receiving appropriate travel vaccines, you significantly reduce your risk of contracting and spreading diseases.

Travel vaccines work by stimulating your immune system to produce antibodies. Offering you protection against specific infections. Vaccines recommended depends on your travel destination, the duration of your stay, medical/vaccination history, and your planned activities.

Timing Before Your Trip: The Key Considerations

Planning the timing of your vaccinations ensures immunity is gained for your travels. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Research and Consultation: Start your travel vaccination journey by researching the health risks associated with your destination. Check reputable sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or World Health Organization (WHO) for country-specific recommendations. Additionally, consult with a travel medicine specialist or healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history, destination, and individual needs.
2. Allow Sufficient Time: Many vaccines require multiple doses or may need several weeks to take effect. Make sure to begin the vaccination process well in advance of your trip, ideally 4-6 weeks beforehand, to ensure adequate protection. Some vaccines may also require a waiting period between doses, so plan accordingly.
3. Consider Combination Vaccines/Alternate Dosing Schedules: To streamline your vaccination schedule, ask your healthcare provider about combination vaccines. These vaccines offer protection against multiple diseases in a single shot, reducing the number of injections needed and simplifying your immunization process. There are also accelerated and rapid dosing schedules approved for many vaccines.
4. Factor in Pre-Existing Immunity: Your prior immunization history and natural immunity to certain diseases can influence the timing of your travel vaccinations. Some vaccines require boosters to strengthen your existing immunity, while others may be entirely new. Discuss your vaccination records with your healthcare provider to determine which vaccines you may need and when to receive them.
5. Seasonal Considerations: Take into account any seasonal disease outbreaks or fluctuations in disease prevalence at your destination. For example, if you’re traveling during flu season, getting a flu shot; during dry season, Meningitis booster; rainy season, malaria prophylaxis.

Conclusion

Timing is crucial when it comes to travel vaccinations. By allowing ample time for vaccines to take effect, you ensure that you’re protected against potentially harmful diseases during your journey. Remember to conduct thorough research and plan ahead to maximize the effectiveness of your vaccinations. Your health and well-being are paramount, so make timing a priority before embarking on your next travel adventure.

Prioritize your health, plan ahead, and enjoy worry-free travel. Bon voyage and stay safe!

• Have more questions or concerns? Our pharmacists are happy to assist. Ask your questions here
• Request a complimentary price quote and travel vaccine/medication recommendations here
• Book an appointment for consultation and administration here

The post Timing Before Trip for Vaccinations (4-minute read) appeared first on Central Point Pharmacy.