Manager, Kevin Knoll

Certified Natural Products Advisor

ASK A CERTIFIED NATURAL PRODUCTS ADVISOR ABOUT:

* Vitamins, such as Vitamin E and B12

* Minerals, such as iron, calcium and zinc

* Herbs, such as ginseng, garlic and senna

* Other food supplements such as fibre and antioxidants

*Basic nutrition such as essential fatty acids, proteins and carbohydrates

* What natural products may be helpful for specific conditions

*Appropriate dosage levels

* How to use natural products for maximum effect

ASK A CERTIFIED NATURAL PRODUCTS ADVISOR

Q. What is the Certified Natural Products Advisor education program?

A. The Certified Natural Products Advisor (CNPA) education program is the most complete, science-based course of its kind in Canada for health food retailers. The course is written by experts in naturopathic medicine and natural products and contains current information on nutritional supplements and how they can benefit your health.
The CNPA education program provides a solid foundation in chemistry and biology which is essential to professionals involved in counseling clients on health care. A CNPA understands how the body works and how natural products affect it. Because of the background in science provided by the course, your CNPA will be better able to assess changes in the field as new products enter the marketplace.
Health food retailers must pass an examination to receive this certification. The CNPA education program was developed in partnership by the Canadian Health Food Association and the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine.

Q. Why is a Certified Natural Products Advisor important to me?

A. If you are like most Canadians, you take an active role in your own health and well
being. You probably have lots of questions. That's why it is important to have natural product experts in your community to talk to you about what these products can and can't do. When you visit an Advisor, at The Old Kitchen Cupboard, you can take comfort that Kevin or Joanne will give you the latest information on natural products and their benefits. A CNPA will provide you with expert knowledge and counsel on how best to use these products to safely achieve good results.

Q. Are there times when a CNPA can't help me?

A. Advisors are always available to answer questions about natural products and give you practical advice. However, Advisors are not medical doctors and, therefore, can't diagnose potential medical problems. If you suspect you have an on-going, chronic medical condition that is not being treated, your CNPA will suggest that you visit a naturopath or physician.

Q. Are natural products good for my health?

A. Many nutritional supplements contain ingredients that have been clinically proven to benefit your well being. If you have questions about natural products, or are considering taking products as a part of your daily health plan, speak to your CNPA who can advise you what products may be best. Don't forget, daily exercise and good eating habits are also important to your good health.

Q. How do I know if my health food retailer is a CNPA?

A. Just ask. Health Food retailers who have completed the CNPA education program receive a certificate to display in their store. They may also wear a lapel pin indicating that they are an Advisor.

Now there is a new type of health food retailer, the Certified Natural Product Advisor, who you can trust to help you make important decisions regarding which natural products are best suited to your needs.