Maria Sykes

Maria Sykes

The Hearty Soul Team

Marie Sykes is an Ontario based writer with a background in research and a love for holistic wellness. She's especially interested in boosting awareness for women's health issues. Once a shunner of gyms, Marie has found an appreciation for weight training and HIIT circuits. She enjoys trying cuisine from all over the world, and she also enjoys not caring two cents what other people think her body should look like.

Arthritis wears away at the cartilage of a joint, which is the cushioning material between bones. This can cause inflammation and irritation of the synovial lining, which produces the synovial fluid that helps protect and lubricate the joint. When arthritis affects the joints of the hands, it can cause pain and stiffness. That pain can get worse whenever you use your hand a...

Much like antibiotic resistant bacteria in recent years, “super bugs” of another type have adapted to survive common treatments. Chemical-resistant head lice has been a growing problem, with news stories covering the “super lice” since 2015. (1, 2) Unfortunately, just like antibiotic resistant bacteria, “super lice” also seem like they’re here to stay. At least...

This year, has already seen a multi-state outbreak of gastrointestinal illnesses caused by infected oyster imports. But the same pathogenic bacteria that can make seafood enthusiasts ill could also be found at your local beach. What is Vibrio Vulnificus? Vibrio are a type of bacteria normally found in saltwater and brackish water. There are over 20...

If someone were to ask you what the effects of marijuana were on the brain, you might be tempted to rely on the stereotypes that first come to mind. Dopey-ness, low energy, calmness, goofiness (and a strange penchant for salty snacks). But a recently published animal study suggests that a certain cannabinoid could have the...

Unless you’re an immortal jellyfish, death will play an inevitable role in your life. And although loss and dying have always been a part of human existence, it seems none of us have ever quite gotten used to it. Misconceptions abound about the process of dying, especially as it relates to the death of a...

It turns out the love-it-or-hate-it cruciferous veggie that’s prevented countless young children from earning their dessert has an extensive amount of health benefits. Don’t limit broccoli’s merit to just the head- broccoli stalks, leaves, and sprouts are not to be taken lightly. The next time you see a grocery store selling broccoli heads without the...