Summer is the time to get outside, soak up the sun, tend the garden, and enjoy nature’s abundance. But many of the common products people reach for—weed killers, sunscreens, and produce washes—can come with hidden (or not-so-hidden) health risks. If you’re trying to live more holistically and reduce your toxic load, this season is the perfect time to make some simple, effective swaps.
Let’s explore natural and safe alternatives to:
Harmful weed killers like Roundup
Chemical-based sunscreens
Conventional fruit and vegetable washes
Glyphosate, the main ingredient in Roundup, has been linked to serious health concerns, including hormone disruption, gut imbalance, cancer, and more. Many people don’t realize that what they’re putting on their soil can get into their drinking water. Thankfully, there are safer, natural ways to manage weeds without harming your health or the environment.
Non-Toxic Weed Killer Alternatives:
Vinegar + Salt + Dish Soap Spray
Mix 1 gallon of white vinegar, 1 cup of salt, and 1 tablespoon of natural dish soap. Spray directly on weeds during a sunny day.
Boiling Water
Pour directly on weeds in sidewalk cracks or driveway edges.
Mulching & Manual Pulling
Prevent growth by covering garden beds with organic mulch and staying ahead of root systems with occasional hand-pulling.
These options are effective, safe for ourselves, our pets, and children, and won’t harm the surrounding soil biome.
Secondly, conventional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate—chemicals known to disrupt hormones and potentially damage coral reefs, among several other negatives.
What to Look for Instead:
Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
Fragrance-free, non-nano, and reef-safe labels
Avoid spray sunscreens, which are easy to inhale and harder to apply evenly
Top Holistic Sunscreen Brands:
Badger – Organic, family-friendly, and gentle on sensitive skin
Babo Botanicals – Great for kids and contains nourishing plant-based ingredients
Thinksport – High-performing and EWG-rated for safety
Raw Elements – Biodegradable and water-resistant, ideal for active summer days
And remember: natural sun protection also includes wide-brimmed hats, lightweight long sleeves, and seeking shade during peak UV hours. The sun is our friend, not our enemy!
Lastly, even the most organic fruits and vegetables can have dirt, bacteria, or natural residues from being handled and/or transported. Washing them thoroughly is essential, but that doesn’t mean reaching for sprays that have disadvantages to our health.
DIY Fruit & Veggie Washes to Consider:
Simple Vinegar Soak: Mix 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water. Soak produce for 5–10 minutes, then rinse well. This helps remove pesticides, waxes, and bacteria.
Baking Soda Rinse: Sprinkle baking soda onto produce and gently scrub with your hands or a veggie brush, then rinse.
Lemon Essential Oil: Add a few drops of food-grade lemon essential oil to your wash water for extra cleaning power and a fresh scent.
Or try natural store-bought options like Rebel Green, Fit Organic, Young Living, or Aunt Fannie’s Produce Wash, all made with safe, plant-based ingredients.
Embracing non-toxic living doesn’t mean giving up convenience; it means choosing products and habits that support you and your loved ones’ health. Whether you’re tending the garden, applying sunscreen, or prepping a fresh fruit salad, these simple changes can make your summer cleaner and more health-conscious. Every small choice adds up!
If you’re in your 40s or early 50s and feeling like your body is changing in ways you didn’t sign up for—you’re not imagining it. Weight gain around the belly, disrupted sleep, mood swings, fatigue, and a general feeling of “off” are all common signs of perimenopause.
One of the biggest players in this midlife shift is estrogen—and more specifically, how your body continues (or struggles) to make and metabolize it as your ovaries begin to slow down. But what most women don’t realize is that estrogen doesn’t just come from the ovaries.
Even after ovulation slows, your adrenal glands step in to produce a weaker form of estrogen, helping to smooth the transition. But there’s a catch…
Your Adrenals: The Unsung Hormone Helpers
Your adrenal glands—two small glands that sit on top of your kidneys—are responsible for producing stress hormones like cortisol, but they also help produce DHEA, which converts into estrogen and testosterone in the body. This becomes especially important during perimenopause, when your ovaries start to retire.
If your adrenals are strong and supported, they can help ease the hormone decline. If they’re depleted? You’ll feel it—big time.
That’s why the way you support your adrenals has a huge impact on how smoothly (or not) you experience perimenopause.
What Depletes Your Adrenals and Estrogen?
Several everyday habits and stressors can tax your adrenal glands, leading to lower estrogen support and more perimenopausal symptoms like weight gain, mood swings, and fatigue. Some of the most common culprits include:
Chronic stress & high cortisol: The adrenals prioritize making cortisol over sex hormones like estrogen when you’re stressed out.
Toxins: Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (from plastics, fragrances, pesticides, etc.) can push estrogen down unhealthy metabolic pathways, contributing to estrogen dominance or deficiency.
Nutrient deficiencies: Especially vitamin C (which your adrenals use in high amounts) and B vitamins, which are crucial for hormone production and energy.
Low healthy fat intake: Estrogen is made from cholesterol, so eating enough healthy fats is key to hormone balance.
Too much sugar: High sugar intake spikes insulin and puts extra pressure on the adrenals and liver, making hormone regulation harder.
The Gut & Immune System Connection: The Hidden Hormone Helpers.
Here’s something many women overlook: your gut health and immune function also play a major role in how your body uses and preserves estrogen.
The Estrobolome: This is the collection of gut organisms specifically involved in metabolizing estrogen. A healthy estrobolome ensures estrogen is broken down and recycled properly. When the gut is out of balance (dysbiosis), you may either eliminate estrogen too quickly or recirculate toxic forms, contributing to estrogen dominance or deficiency.
Leaky gut & inflammation: A compromised gut lining leads to low-grade inflammation that activates the immune system, further stressing your adrenals and disrupting hormone signals.
Immune stress & estrogen: Chronic immune activation (from gut issues, infections, or toxins) diverts resources away from hormone production and contributes to adrenal burnout. The immune system and endocrine system are constantly talking to each other—when one is off, the other follows.
Support Your Adrenals, Gut & Hormones
The first and best step is always to talk to your practitioner to help you identify the specific root cause and needs. We can run hormone panels and gut tests to give even more personalized recommendations.
That said, here are some of my favorite herbs and natural supports for both adrenals and hormone balance during perimenopause:
My Go-To Supplements:
Symplex F (Standard Process): A foundational supplement for supporting the female endocrine system, especially the ovaries and adrenals. Great for energy, mood, and overall hormone function.
Rhodiola & Schisandra (MediHerb): Adaptogenic herbs that enhance energy, resilience, and detox capacity. They support both the adrenal glands and liver, making them ideal during perimenopause.
Core Maca Gold (Energetix): A bioenergetically enhanced maca formula to support libido, stamina, and hormone balance. A gentle, energizing tonic for menopausal women.
Chaste Tree (MediHerb): Supports progesterone production and helps regulate cycle changes in early to mid-perimenopause.
Lifestyle Tips:
Eat regular, balanced meals prioritizing protein and healthy fats.
Prioritize sleep—your adrenals repair while you rest.
Minimize caffeine and sugar to ease adrenal load.
Stay hydrated and add unrefined sea salt and/or electrolytes if you’re feeling drained or dizzy.
Perimenopause doesn’t have to be a wild hormonal rollercoaster. By understanding how your adrenals, gut, and immune system work together to support estrogen, you can take back the wheel and feel more balanced, energized, and grounded.
Your body isn’t broken—it’s just shifting. And with the right tools and support, you can thrive through the change.
In today’s fast-paced world, where the focus often leans towards quick fixes and symptom management, it’s essential to step back and consider the broader picture of health. While conventional medicine has made remarkable strides in treating acute conditions and managing diseases, there is a growing awareness of the benefits of holistic approaches that view the body as an interconnected system. Choosing a holistic approach first can offer numerous advantages, promoting long-term well-being and addressing the root causes of health issues.
Addressing the Root Cause Conventional medicine often focuses on alleviating symptoms, which can be crucial in emergency situations or when dealing with severe illnesses. However, this approach sometimes leaves the underlying causes of the problem unaddressed. Holistic therapies aim to identify and address the root cause of health issues, leading to more sustainable and lasting health improvements. For example, instead of merely prescribing medication for high blood pressure, a holistic practitioner may explore dietary habits, nutrient deficiencies, stress levels, and physical activity to create a comprehensive plan that not only lowers blood pressure but also enhances overall health.
Viewing the Body as a Whole The human body is an intricate system where structural, nutritional, and nervous system aspects are deeply interconnected. Holistic care recognizes this interconnectedness, taking into account the entirety of a person’s health and lifestyle. Rather than compartmentalizing health issues, holistic practitioners consider how various factors such as lifestyle, nutrition, and other external factors interact to influence overall health. This comprehensive approach can lead to more personalized and effective treatment plans.
Fewer Side Effects and Lower Risk One of the significant advantages of holistic therapies is their focus on natural and non-invasive treatments. While pharmaceuticals can be useful tools in managing disease, they often come with a range of side effects, some of which can be severe. Holistic therapies, such as dietary changes, herbal and whole food supplements, acupuncture, and chiropractic adjustments, typically carry fewer risks. By prioritizing natural remedies and lifestyle changes, clients can often avoid the complications associated with long-term pharmaceutical use.
Preventative Care Focus Holistic care places a strong emphasis on prevention. Holistic care places a strong emphasis on prevention. Instead of waiting for health problems to arise, holistic practitioners work with their clients to strengthen immune systems. This proactive approach not only helps prevent illness but also promotes overall well-being. By adopting a holistic lifestyle, clients can reduce their risk of chronic diseases, improve their quality of life, and achieve greater longevity.
Empowering Clients A key element of holistic care is client empowerment. Holistic practitioners often spend more time with their clients, educating them about their health and involving them in the decision-making process. This collaborative approach encourages individuals to take an active role in their health, making informed choices about their diet, lifestyle, and treatment options. By understanding the impact of their choices, clients are better equipped to maintain their health and prevent future issues.
Supporting the Nervous System The health of your nervous system plays a crucial role in overall well-being, yet it is often overlooked in conventional medical treatments. Holistic care acknowledges the significant effect that stress and nervous system imbalances can have on physical health. Techniques such as nutritional support, detoxification, and lifestyle adjustments are often included in holistic treatment plans to promote a balanced, healthy state. By addressing these key areas, holistic care can help you achieve a more harmonious and well-rounded life.
Why Start with a Holistic Approach? Starting with a holistic approach allows clients to explore natural, preventative, and integrative therapies before considering more invasive or pharmaceutical interventions. While conventional medicine plays a critical role in treating serious and life-threatening conditions, beginning with holistic care can help clients build a strong foundation for health, minimize risks, and avoid unnecessary medical treatments. By focusing on the root causes, viewing the body as a whole, and empowering individuals to take control of their health, holistic care offers a path to long-term wellness and vitality.
Choosing a holistic approach first is not about rejecting conventional medicine but about integrating the best of both worlds. It’s about taking the time to understand your body, addressing health issues at their source, and nurturing your overall well-being. In doing so, you can achieve a more balanced, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Dr. Schmidt talks frequently about all the old books he reads about health and nutrition and the lessons he has learned from those. Historical scientific data can be a helpful tool to learn new things. Health and nutrition information has evolved greatly over time. But, some of the historical data still holds true. Two good resources for historical health and nutrition information are: International Foundation for Nutrition and Health and Selene River Press. The past can be a wealth of knowledge that can improve our well-being today.
Debates still continue about the best diet for improving different health conditions. Ketogenic, Carnivore, Paleo, Intermittent Fasting, and a variety of other types of diets could all serve a purpose in certain populations. I have stated before I do not believe there is one perfect diet. We are all individuals with different genetics which might necessitate different approaches to health at different times in life. But, a diet with adequate protein, healthy fats, and lower carbohydrates is a very good starting place for most people. [https://www.dietdoctor.com/category/science-and-health]
Another difference of opinion about historical data surrounds The Germ Theory and The Terrain Theory. The Germ Theory says that diseases are caused by microorganisms. The Terrain Theory emphasizes the importance of the body’s internal environment or “terrain”. The Terrain Theory says disease is more likely to thrive in an unhealthy body. These theories sparked much debate. The Germ Theory is dominant in mainstream medical model. In a holistic approach the Terrain Theory is much valued. With the clinical nutrition we use in this office, we are trying to make the terrain healthier. We help the immune system work better and the organs of elimination that assist with detoxification are supported to create a healthier body.
I believe the future of health is starting to look brighter. There are reasons to have hope. A recent win is the banning of Red Dye #3. New research, advances in technology, increased awareness of natural health practices, and growing interest in long-term wellness all can contribute to a happier, healthier future for you and your family and friends.
It is one of my life purposes to educate and help people whenever I can. I want to make the world a healthier place for children in the future. I hope I can help you live a healthier life, too. We need to move toward natural, organic, local foods whenever possible. And, we need to demand better food quality in the products that we consume.
As we move toward a future of health and wellness, combining old and new information can help us make better choices. We can take the best of the past and create a future that is centered on truth, knowledge, and data. Here’s to a brighter future for all.
Skincare is an essential part of our daily routine, as our skin is the largest organ in the body and plays a crucial role in protecting us from the environment. A consistent skincare regimen helps maintain the health and appearance of your skin and contributes to your overall well-being. However, in today’s beauty industry, many products contain toxic chemicals that can do more harm than good. Let’s explore the ingredients that should be used versus what’s often included in conventional skin care products that may be harmful to our health.
While many commercial skin care products may promise glowing, youthful skin, they often contain harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients that can be harmful to your health. These toxic ingredients can irritate the skin, disrupt your hormones, and lead to long-term health issues. Here are some of the most common harmful ingredients to avoid:
Parabens: These preservatives are used to extend the shelf life of products but are known to mimic estrogen in the body, potentially disrupting hormonal balance. Look for products labeled “paraben-free.”Phthalates: Often found in fragrances, phthalates have been linked to reproductive issues and developmental problems. Opt for fragrance-free or naturally-scented products instead.
Sulfates (SLS, SLES): Sulfates are detergents used in many cleansers and shampoos to create lather. While they may feel cleansing, they can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
Fragrances: Synthetic fragrances often contain hundreds of chemicals, some of which can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, and even hormone disruption. Natural oils and extracts are a better choice.
Formaldehyde: This chemical is used as a preservative in some products but is a known carcinogen and can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues. Always choose formaldehyde-free products.
Alcohol: While alcohol can be drying, many conventional skin care products use it as a cheap preservative or solvent. It can lead to skin dehydration and irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.
Mineral Oil and Petroleum: Derived from petroleum, mineral oil is a heavy, greasy substance that can clog pores and suffocate the skin. It’s best to avoid these ingredients in favor of plant-based oils.
Building a natural skincare routine can be simple and effective when you focus on nourishing ingredients. Here’s a basic natural routine to follow:
Cleanse: Use a gentle cleanser made with natural ingredients like honey or aloe vera. Avoid harsh soaps or sulfates that strip the skin of moisture.
Tone: Choose a natural toner with ingredients like rose water or witch hazel to balance the skin’s pH and tighten pores.
Serum: Apply a serum with vitamin C or hyaluronic acid to brighten and hydrate the skin.
Moisturize: Use a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer with natural oils like jojoba or rosehip oil to lock in moisture.
Sunscreen: Protect your skin with a natural sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to block harmful UV rays without toxic chemicals.
Ask your practitioner today what some of their favorite skincare brands are. Taking care of your skin is not just about vanity- it’s about long-term health for you and your family. Your skin will thank you for it, both now and in the future!
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice for oral and overall health. With roots tracing back over 3,000 years, this simple technique involves swishing oil in the mouth to promote detoxification and oral hygiene. It is oil pulling because you are “pulling” the oil through your teeth as you swish. Is oil pulling really worth the effort, though? We will go over the history, practice, and current evidence.
The History of Oil Pulling
Oil pulling originates from Ayurveda, India’s traditional system of medicine. Known as “Kavala” or “Gandusha,” it was primarily recommended to strengthen teeth, gums, and jaws while preventing bad breath and dryness of the throat. Historically, sesame oil was the preferred medium due to its antimicrobial and soothing properties, though coconut oil has become increasingly popular in recent years for its lauric acid content.
In Ayurveda, oil pulling was seen not just as an oral health practice but as a method to support the body’s detoxification pathways. It was believed to balance the body’s doshas (energetic forces) and promote overall well-being.
Benefits of Oil Pulling
Through both anecdotal reports and emerging research, oil pulling has been linked to numerous oral health benefits, including:
1. Reduction of White Coating on the Tongue
Clients often report a reduction in the white coating on their tongue after consistent oil pulling. This coating is often a mix of bacteria, fungi, and dead cells, and oil pulling may help reduce the microbial load in the mouth, leading to a healthier tongue appearance.
2. Improved Breath Freshness
By targeting bacteria responsible for bad breath (halitosis), oil pulling can leave the mouth feeling fresher. Coconut oil, in particular, has antimicrobial properties that help combat sulfur-producing bacteria.
3. Relief from Gum Inflammation and Bleeding
Oil pulling may alleviate symptoms of gingivitis by reducing oral bacteria and plaque that irritate the gums. Swishing oil creates a mechanical cleaning effect while the oil itself soothes inflamed tissues.
4. Support for Dental Infections and Tooth Decay
Studies suggest that oil pulling can reduce Streptococcus mutans, a key bacterium linked to tooth decay. Consistent use may complement traditional dental care in preventing cavities.
5. Balancing Oral pH
A balanced oral pH helps maintain a healthy environment for beneficial bacteria while preventing the overgrowth of harmful microbes. Oil pulling can assist in neutralizing acidity, creating conditions that support stronger enamel and healthier gums.
Scientific Research on Oil Pulling
While oil pulling has been practiced for centuries, modern research is still catching up. A few noteworthy studies include:
Plaque and Gingivitis Reduction: A 2009 study published in the Indian Journal of Dental Research found that oil pulling with sesame oil significantly reduced plaque and improved gingivitis in participants after just 10 days.
Halitosis Management: Research published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (2011) demonstrated that oil pulling was effective in reducing microorganisms associated with bad breath, comparable to chlorhexidine mouthwash.
Antimicrobial Effects: A 2016 study highlighted coconut oil’s ability to reduce Streptococcus mutans levels in saliva, underscoring its role in preventing tooth decay.
Although these findings are promising, oil pulling should not replace regular dental care, including brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. Instead, it can serve as a valuable addition to other oral hygiene practices.
How to Practice Oil Pulling
1. Take 1-2 teaspoons of oil (coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil are common choices. Coconut and castor oils are my preferred oils).
2. Swish the oil gently in your mouth for 15-20 minutes, ensuring it reaches all areas. (Castor oil only needs 2 minutes).
3. Spit out the oil into a trash can (to avoid clogging drains).
4. Rinse your mouth with warm water and brush your teeth as usual.
Consistency is key, and many people notice results after a few weeks of daily practice.
Personal Insights and Observations
In my experience working with clients, oil pulling has been transformative for those dealing with persistent oral health issues. From reducing the white coating on the tongue to alleviating gum inflammation, the benefits extend beyond what traditional dental products can achieve alone. I have also seen oil pulling eradicate dry mouth symptoms and help prevent cavities in individuals who are prone to them. In some cases, I have seen it help people with early signs of dental decay to arrest the advancement and avoid needing fillings.
Conclusion
There are only so many pills you can take and good foods you can get. I’m always a fan of finding additional practices to assist your health. Oil pulling is a timeless practice that continues to prove its relevance in modern holistic health. By integrating this simple habit into a daily routine, individuals can support their oral health naturally while complementing their existing dental care. Whether you’re looking to combat bad breath, soothe gum inflammation, or maintain a balanced oral pH, oil pulling is a valuable practice.
Hair loss can feel frustrating and even overwhelming, but understanding the root causes is the first step toward restoring your luscious locks. Let’s dive into some of the main reasons behind female hair thinning and how you can take control of your hair health.
Root Causes of Hair Loss in Women:
Hormonal Imbalances: Issues like thyroid imbalances, low estrogen, high androgens, or autoimmune conditions can significantly impact hair growth cycles.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, iodine, calcium, and vitamin D play a vital role in hair health. A lack of these can lead to brittle or thinning hair.
Stress: Chronic stress disrupts cortisol levels, leading to a condition called telogen effluvium, where hair prematurely enters the shedding phase.
Gut and Scalp Health: An unhealthy microbiome or the overgrowth of bacteria, fungus, or parasites can negatively affect both gut and scalp health. Additionally, scalp buildup from dirt, oil, or product residue suffocates hair follicles, slowing growth.
Harsh Hair Products: Chemical-laden products can strip your scalp’s natural oils, weaken hair, and cause long-term damage.
How to Naturally Combat Hair Loss:
Get Tested: Evaluate health by checking your hormone levels, gut microbiome, and nutrient status. Functional testing can pinpoint imbalances that may be affecting your hair. Ask us about in-depth functional testing.
Nourish from Within: Focus on a nutrient-dense diet with seasonal vegetables, red meat, seafood, nuts, and seeds. These provide minerals like iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids essential for hair growth.
Care for Your Scalp: A clean, healthy scalp is key for hair growth. Use natural shampoo without sulfates, parabens or fragrance. Use weekly oil scalp treatments such as castor oil and rosemary essential oil to stimulate blood flow to your hair follicles. Your scalp health is also directly tied to your gut health. Avoiding inflammatory foods like grains, dairy and gluten, can help with gut lining and your external skin.
Manage Stress: Stress-related hair loss can improve with supplements that help regulate the nervous system and cortisol levels like B1, Dreamin or Inositol. Adding relaxing teas like chamomile, lavender, and lemon balm into your routine can be an easy step to unwind.
Prioritize Beauty Sleep: Aim for 8–9 hours of deep sleep nightly. Quality rest supports hormone regulation, boosts growth hormones, and repairs hair follicles, reducing shedding.
Upgrade Your Hair Routine: Explore my **Shop With Dr. Taggy** tab for hair-friendly essentials like scalp brushes, nourishing supplements, and silk pillowcases to protect your hair while you sleep.
With the right approach, you can nurture your hair from root to tip. Remember, healing takes time, so be patient with your journey—and your hair will thank you!
In our fast-paced world, antibiotics have become a go-to solution for many infections. While they can be life-saving, their overuse often comes with unintended consequences for our health.
As a holistic doctor, I see many patients struggling with issues linked to antibiotic overuse, and I want to shed light on how these medications can disrupt the delicate balance of your microbiome, hormones, and even affect behaviors.
The connection between gut health, mental well-being, and hormonal balance is a growing area of research. The microbiome—your body’s ecosystem of beneficial bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms—plays a central role in regulating these systems. When antibiotics disrupt this delicate balance, the effects ripple throughout the body and impact not only physical health but also emotional, hormonal, and behavioral health.
The Gut-Brain Connection and Mental Health
The gut and brain are in constant communication through a bidirectional network called the **gut-brain axis**, which involves the vagus nerve, immune system, and signaling molecules like neurotransmitters.
1. Impact on Neurotransmitter Production
The gut microbiome is responsible for producing 95% of the body’s serotonin (the “feel-good” neurotransmitter) and over 50% of the dopamine (linked to motivation and reward).
Disrupting gut flora through antibiotics can lead to reduced production of these neurotransmitters, resulting in mood imbalances like depression, anxiety, and irritability.
2. Increased Inflammation
Antibiotic-induced dysbiosis often leads to a leaky gut, allowing toxins and inflammatory molecules (like lipopolysaccharides) to enter the bloodstream.
These inflammatory signals can cross the blood-brain barrier, contributing to neuroinflammation, which has been linked to conditions like anxiety, depression, and even neurodegenerative diseases.
3. Behavioral Changes
Studies show that altering the gut microbiome can affect behavior, including increased stress sensitivity and changes in social interaction. Antibiotic use has been linked to increased aggression and reduced cognitive flexibility.
4. Increased Risk of Mental Health Disorders
Research suggests a connection between long-term antibiotic use and a higher risk of developing mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, major depression, and bipolar disorder.
This could stem from both microbiome disruption and nutrient deficiencies caused by antibiotics, which impair the absorption of key vitamins like B12 and magnesium.
Hormonal Imbalances Caused by Antibiotic Overuse
The microbiome also plays a critical role in hormone metabolism. When antibiotics disrupt this system, hormonal balance is thrown off, leading to:
1. Estrogen Imbalance
The gut microbiome helps regulate estrogen levels through the **estrobolome**, a collection of bacteria responsible for metabolizing estrogen.
Dysbiosis can lead to elevated or insufficient estrogen levels, which may cause symptoms such as:
Irregular periods
Severe PMS or PMDD
Increased risk of estrogen-dominant conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, and breast cancer
2. Cortisol Dysregulation
Chronic gut inflammation from dysbiosis can overstimulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to elevated cortisol levels.
Prolonged high cortisol contributes to adrenal fatigue, disrupted sleep patterns, and increased anxiety.
3. Thyroid Function
The microbiome influences thyroid hormone conversion. A compromised gut can impair the conversion of T4 (inactive thyroid hormone) into T3 (active thyroid hormone), leading to symptoms of hypothyroidism such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression.
4. Reproductive Hormones
An unhealthy gut can disrupt the balance of progesterone and testosterone, potentially causing:
Low libido
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Fertility challenges
Behavioral Changes and Antibiotics
The interplay between microbiome health and behavior is complex. Here are some notable ways in which antibiotic use can lead to changes in behavior:
1. Mood Swings and Irritability
Dysbiosis can cause rapid changes in mood due to fluctuations in neurotransmitter levels and increased inflammation.
Many people report feeling “off” or irritable during or after a course of antibiotics.
2. Cravings for Unhealthy Foods
Antibiotic-induced dysbiosis often promotes the overgrowth of yeast and harmful pathogens that thrive on sugar.
This leads to intense sugar and carbohydrate cravings, further perpetuating poor gut health.
3. Fatigue and Cognitive Fog
Imbalances in the gut microbiome can interfere with nutrient absorption (e.g., B vitamins, iron, and magnesium), leading to fatigue and brain fog.
This also impacts memory, concentration, and decision-making abilities.
4. Stress and Anxiety
Disrupted gut health increases the stress response, making individuals more sensitive to everyday stressors.
Studies have shown that a healthy microbiome helps regulate the body’s stress response via the HPA axis.
Talk to your practitioner on How to Prevent and Reverse These Effects through:
1. Supporting Your Gut Before, During, and After Antibiotic: the use of a supplement like Glutathione and Saccharomyces boulardii, a beneficial yeast, can be especially helpful in maintaining gut balance.
Bone Broth and Collagen: These support the gut lining, preventing leaky gut and inflammation.
2. Adopt a Gut-Healthy Diet
Talk to your practitioner about the ideal diet for you, but focusing on avoiding inflammatory foods such as sugar, refined carbohydrates, and dairy can help starve unhealthy organisms.
3. Consider Testing and Targeted Interventions
Ask your practitioner about further functional testing to assess gut health, hormone levels, and nutrient deficiencies.
If you’ve experienced chronic health issues after antibiotic use—such as recurrent infections, digestive problems, or hormonal imbalances—it may be time to talk to one of our practitioners about it. The right holistic testing like our Gut Zoomer or Nutrafol tests for gut dysbiosis or leaky gut syndrome can help identify specific imbalances, guiding a personalized plan to restore your health.
Rebounding is a versatile and effective form of exercise that offers a wide range of benefits for your body. Using a mini trampoline or rebounder is a low-impact, aerobic workout that can strengthen the entire body from the inside out. The Cellerciser® is the rebounder I use and recommend.
Here are some things that rebounding can do to contribute to overall health:
Improve Lymphatic System Function
The lymphatic system is essential for detoxification, immune function, and maintaining fluid balance in the body. Rebounding helps with lymphatic flow because the motion helps activate vessels to cleanse the body of toxins and boost immune response.
Heart and Circulatory Function
Rebounding is an excellent cardiovascular exercise. It helps improve circulation and strengthens the heart. It increases your heart rate without putting stress on the joints. The up-and-down motion promotes blood flow and helps pump blood back to the heart.
Fat Burning and Weight Management
Rebounding can be an effective way to burn fat and calories and increase metabolism. The motion can also help encourage the bowels/digestive tract to move more efficiently.
Increased Endurance, Muscular Strength and Bone Health
Rebounding can improve stamina and muscular endurance and strength by challenging various muscle groups, especially the legs and core. It also helps in strengthening bones due to its weight-bearing nature, which is beneficial for maintaining bone density. Bouncing on the rebounder also can help with balance, coordination, and flexibility.
Rebounding offers a unique combination of benefits. It is convenient and great for anyone looking to improve their health. Regular rebounding can improve your heart function, detoxify your body, and help your immune system. It can be a fun, easy way to add exercise into your daily routine.
Especially during the Winter, the skin’s natural moisture barrier can be compromised. The lack of humidity in the air causes water to evaporate from the skin, resulting in dryness, especially in the hands and lips. An excessive amount of cold air, indoor heating, and harsh winds often lead to the flakiness and irritation that many of us experience. Fortunately, a holistic approach to skin care can help restore and maintain healthy, glowing skin all year round. In this blog, we’ll explore effective tips, topical options with minimal ingredients, and internal supplements to keep your skin hydrated and nourished throughout the upcoming chilly months.
Hydrating from the Inside Out
Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity. Aim for drinking half of your body weight in ounces of water per day, and consider herbal teas or electrolyte powders to add warmth and/or additional hydration.
Extra Care for Your Lips and Hands
Lip Balm: Use a nourishing lip balm containing ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil. Apply it frequently to prevent chapped lips.
Hand Cream: Keep an organic hand cream nearby and apply it throughout the day, especially after washing your hands. Brands I like: Osea, Sweet Grass Farm, Follain.
Beef Tallow: Pure beef tallow, found at grocery stores, or a beef tallow balm is one of the best things for your whole body. It can be used for skin that is dry, cracked, or weeping. Or, it can be used as a preventative measure before the weather starts to get cooler. My favorite brand is Tallow Barn Organics and is sold here at The NHCAA.
Always use a gentle hand soap when washing your hands that won’t strip your skin and avoid hot water. Also, don’t over-wash your hands.
Supplements to Support Skin Health
Collagen Supplements: Collagen is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and hydration. Consider adding collagen peptides or a supplement that has collagen in it to your daily routine to support skin health from within.
Vitamin E: This powerful antioxidant helps protect the skin from oxidative stress and supports overall skin health. You can find vitamin E in foods like almonds, avocados, and spinach, or take it in supplement form.
Zinc: Known for its role in skin healing and repair, zinc supplements can help maintain skin integrity and support a glowing complexion.
*Ask your practitioner which supplements would be best to support you and your family’s skin from within.
With all of this being said, winter doesn’t have to mean that you’re dry and uncomfortable. By adopting a holistic approach that combines proper hydration, nourishing topical treatments, and supportive supplements, you can maintain a healthy, radiant complexion all season long. Remember, consistency is key; with a little effort and mindfulness, you can enjoy soft skin even in the coldest temperatures. Embrace this exciting and busy season with confidence, knowing your skin is prepared for anything!
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
