by Dr. Taggy Bensaïd | General
If you’re doing everything “right” — following your food plan, staying active, getting adjusted — but your weight just isn’t budging… it might be time to focus on one of the most overlooked systems in the body: the lymphatic system.
At the Nutritional Healing Center, we often refer to it as the “sewer system” of the body. It’s responsible for carrying away toxins, infections, excess fluid, and waste. When this system becomes sluggish, it can result in weight retention, bloating, fatigue, and chronic inflammation — even if you’re doing all the right things.
Let’s take a deeper look at what might be causing a backed-up lymphatic system — and what you can do about it.
🧬 What Causes a Sluggish Lymphatic System?
We often find that lymphatic stagnation doesn’t have a single cause — it’s usually the result of a combination of stressors that we regularly test for in the office:
1. Hidden Infections
Chronic infections — whether viral, bacterial, mold-related, or even from past dental work — can overload the lymphatic system. These infections might not cause acute symptoms but can still quietly tax your immune system and drainage pathways.
2. Toxic Load
Everyday exposures from pesticides, plastics, cleaning products, and processed food ingredients can create toxic buildup. If your detox systems — including your lymph — are overwhelmed, toxins stay in circulation longer than they should.
3. Lack of Movement
Unlike the heart, the lymph system doesn’t have a built-in pump. It relies on muscle contraction to move. Sitting too much or not moving enough can lead to pooling of lymph — especially in the legs, hips, and abdomen.
4. Dehydration and Mineral Deficiency
Lymph is made mostly of water. If you’re not properly hydrated — or lacking essential minerals — your lymph can become thick and sluggish, making drainage more difficult.
🚨 Common Signs of Lymph Stagnation
You may benefit from lymphatic support if you notice:
- Swelling or puffiness (especially in the face, ankles, or hands)
- Bloating that doesn’t resolve with diet changes
- Brain fog or sluggish thinking
- Chronic fatigue or “heaviness”
- Stubborn weight, even with effort
✅ Simple Ways to Support Your Lymphatic System
Here at NHCAA, we’ve found that patients respond extremely well to the following at-home and in-office tools:
1. Dry Brushing
Use a natural-bristle brush on dry skin before your shower. Brush toward the heart using light, sweeping motions. This helps stimulate lymph flow and exfoliates the skin.
2. Vibration Plate or Rebounding
We offer whole-body vibration therapy in the office, which stimulates lymph flow through subtle muscle contractions. If you have a mini-trampoline (rebounder) at home, a few minutes daily can also help.
3. Contrast Showers
Alternate between hot and cold water at the end of your shower. The temperature shift stimulates blood and lymph circulation — and many patients feel more energized afterward.
4. Use the Sauna
We offer infrared sauna sessions at the practice, which support lymphatic flow, circulation, and detoxification. Sweating is one of your body’s most natural (and effective) ways to release toxins.
💧 Stay Hydrated — But Add Minerals
It’s not just about drinking water — it’s about absorbing it effectively.
We recommend adding Celtic sea salt to your daily routine:
- Aim for up to 2 teaspoons per day, spread out
- Add a pinch to each glass of water or sprinkle over food
- This helps your cells retain hydration and supports healthy lymph flow
Ask your practitioner if you should be tested for mineral deficiencies. Many patients we see are low in essential electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium , all of which play key roles in detox and hydration.
🌿 Ask About Targeted Supplement Support
Your practitioner may also recommend herbal formulas that test well for your body. These are some of my favorite for lymph stagnation along with immune system support
- Lymphonest and Lappa are both gentle purifiers to support lymph drainage, blood and immune defense
- Lymph-tone, a gentle homeopathic blend that can easily be taken by kids and adults
- LymphActiv, a botanical blend for stimulating lymphatic movement and reducing inflammation
Remember, supplements should always be tested and customized to your individual needs. Don’t guess — ask!
If you’re still feeling stuck, ask your practitioner about running the MVX+ blood test. This panel gives insight into:
- Inflammation levels
- Possible hidden infections
- Toxic burden
- Immune system status
This testing gives us real, objective data to identify the deeper causes behind your symptoms, and guides a more precise, effective plan.
At the Nutritional Healing Center, our goal is always to find the root cause behind symptoms like weight retention, fatigue, and inflammation. Often, the lymphatic system plays a much bigger role than people realize — and the good news is, it’s something we can support naturally.
Whether it’s through daily dry brushing, sauna sessions, vibration therapy, proper hydration, or targeted supplements , there are simple, powerful tools you can use to feel better and move forward on your health journey.
Bring it up at your next visit. We’ll work together to assess where your lymph system stands — and create a plan that supports detox, energy, and sustainable weight release.
Call the office or ask at your next appointment to learn more about sauna sessions, lymph testing, or the MVX+ blood panel. We’re here to help every step of the way.
Dr. Taggy Bensaïd, ND
by Dr. Amanda Childress | General, General Health
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.
Dr. Amanda Childress, PharmD
by Mikaela Cradit | General, General Health
A holistic first aid kit is not just about treating injuries; it’s about supporting and being
ready for the body’s natural healing processes. To me, a holistic first aid kit is a collection of
natural remedies and supplements designed to address minor injuries, boost immunity, and
combat wellness concerns. It focuses on supporting the body’s innate ability to heal itself,
incorporating the principles of naturopathy, herbalism, and aromatherapy. The goal is to have
the below items on hand to provide a well-rounded approach to first aid that promotes overall
well-being and encourages a natural recovery process. This guide will help you know how to
start building your own.
Supplies for Minor Wounds
- ACS Silver Spray: This can be used topically to clean out bacteria from wounds, promote efficient healing, and to heal scar tissue. It also can be taken internally to help soothe a sore throat.
- Herbal Healing Ointments: Topical creams and ointments containing calendula, comfrey, or arnica can promote healing and reduce inflammation. These are excellent for treating cuts, scrapes, sprains, and bruises.
- Antiseptic wound spray: Look for sprays made with natural ingredients like tea tree oil or lavender oil. These provide antimicrobial properties while also soothing the skin.
Supplements for Immune Support
- Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant, vitamin C supports the immune system and can help speed up recovery from infections.
- Elderberry Syrup: Known for its immune-boosting properties, elderberry can help prevent and aid in cold and flu symptoms.
- Zinc: This mineral is essential for immune function and can aid in wound healing.
Ask your practitioner which immune-supporting supplements are best for you and your family,
today.
Essential Oils
- Peppermint Oil: Useful for relieving headaches, nausea, and digestive issues. It can be inhaled or diluted with a carrier oil for topical application
- Tea Tree Oil: With powerful antiseptic and antifungal properties, tea tree oil is ideal for treating cuts, scrapes, and infections. Always dilute before applying to the skin.
- Lavender Oil: Renowned for its calming properties, lavender oil can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It’s also effective for minor burns and insect bites when used topically.
Herbal Remedies to Consider
- Chamomile Tea: Great for soothing an upset stomach, chamomile can also be used as a calming remedy to promote relaxation.
- Ginger: Known for its anti-nausea effects, ginger can be taken in tea or supplement form to ease digestive discomfort.
- Arnica Montana: Available in cream or tablet form, arnica is effective for reducing bruising and soreness after physical injuries, and helps to relax muscles.
Other Essentials
- Thermometer: A digital thermometer is crucial for monitoring fevers and assessing overall health.
- Cold and Hot Packs: Reusable cold packs can help reduce/maintain swelling, while hot packs can help to alleviate muscle tension and pain.
- Elastic Bandage: Great for wrapping sprained ankles or wrists, providing support while reducing swelling.
In conclusion, creating a holistic first aid kit is a proactive way to support you and your
family’s health and well-being. Remember, while holistic approaches are highly beneficial, it’s
vital to consult healthcare professionals for serious injuries or illnesses. With a well-stocked
holistic first aid kit though, you can confidently navigate life’s minor bumps and bruises, knowing
you’re prepared for whatever comes your way!
Here’s to a happy and healthy Holiday Season!
–Mikaela Cradit, CNHP
by The NHCAA | General, General Health
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can seem challenging. But with a holistic, naturopathic approach, it’s possible to optimize your well-being naturally—without relying on conventional medications. By focusing on the body’s inherent ability to heal itself and integrating key lifestyle practices, you can achieve better health from the inside out. Here’s how you can get started:
1. Nourish Your Body with Whole Foods
The foundation of any healthy lifestyle begins with nutrition. A diet rich in organic, whole foods provides the body with essential nutrients to promote optimal function. Eating healthy fats, lean proteins, and incorporating some vegetables and fruits will help maintain a balanced system. Avoiding processed foods, added sugars, and artificial additives can reduce inflammation and support digestion.
For additional digestive support, Standard Process offers Zypan, a supplement containing enzymes and stomach acid to assist in proper food breakdown and nutrient absorption.
2. Detoxify for a Clean Slate
Our bodies are constantly exposed to environmental toxins—from pollutants in the air to chemicals in our food. Detoxification helps clear these toxins and restore the body’s natural balance. The liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system play crucial roles in eliminating waste.
Supporting these pathways naturally can be as simple as incorporating detox supplements. CellCore Biosciences offers a variety of supplements designed to aid in removing toxins while replenishing the body’s nutrient reserves. Ask your practitioner which one could benefit you!
3. Balance Your Gut
A healthy gut is essential to overall well-being, as it directly influences immune function, mood, and even skin health. Poor diet, stress, and environmental toxins can lead to an imbalance in gut flora, which can trigger inflammation and other health issues.
To restore gut balance, probiotics and prebiotics are often recommended. Here at NHCAA, we carry several options, with two of the most popular being ProSynbiotic from Standard Process and Flora 12+ by Energetix.
4. Support Your Immune System
A strong immune system is your body’s best defense against illness. Natural ways to boost immunity include proper sleep, stress management, and consuming an immune-supportive diet. But sometimes, our bodies need a little extra help.
For immune system support, Standard Process provides Cyruta Plus and Zinc Chelate, whole-food vitamin C and zinc supplements that help your body stay resilient.
5. Stay Active and Manage Stress
Movement is a key aspect of any healthy lifestyle. Whether it’s walking, yoga, or strength training, regular exercise keeps your muscles strong, improves circulation, and helps manage stress levels. Speaking of stress, adopting relaxation techniques like deep breathing can help reduce cortisol levels and balance your mind and body.
If you find your body struggling to cope with stress, certain supplements can provide support. Standard Process offers Adrenal Desiccated, a natural formula that supports your adrenal glands and helps your body respond to stress more effectively.
6. Ensure Proper Supplementation
While food is the best source of nutrients, supplements can fill in gaps, ensuring your body receives what it needs. Holistic practitioners often recommend supplements that align with your body’s specific needs. Common supplements to support overall health include:
- Vitamin D: Biotics Research’s Bio-D-Mulsion is a highly absorbable form of vitamin D, essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation.
- Magnesium: Ancient Minerals’ Magnesium Spray is a topical form of magnesium, a critical mineral for muscle relaxation, sleep quality, and energy production.
- Liver Support: Standard Process’s Spanish Black Radish is a gentle detoxifier that supports healthy drainage and liver function.
7. Sleep and Rest for Recovery
Sleep is crucial for healing and maintaining optimal health. Prioritize at least 7-9 hours of sleep per night to allow your body to repair and regenerate. Creating a bedtime routine, limiting screen time, and practicing relaxation techniques can improve sleep quality. If sleep still eludes you, natural supplements may help.
Energetix’s Relax-Tone is a gentle, homeopathic formula designed to calm the nervous system and promote restful sleep.
8. Hydration is Key
Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of hydration. Water plays a role in every function of your body, from digestion to detoxification. Aim to drink at least half of your body weight in ounces of water daily, and consider adding minerals for better absorption. A pinch of Selina Naturally’s Unrefined Celtic Sea Salt is an easy way to add minerals to your water.
Final Thoughts
Optimizing a healthy lifestyle naturally doesn’t require a medicine cabinet full of prescription drugs. Through a combination of nutrient-rich foods, regular detoxification, gut balance, immune support, exercise, stress management, and targeted supplementation from trusted companies like Standard Process, CellCore Biosciences, Energetix, and several others we carry here in our office, you can enhance your health from the inside out. Always remember that a naturopathic, holistic approach focuses on the root cause of health issues, helping the body heal itself naturally. Make sure to consult with a practitioner to tailor these suggestions to your unique needs.
By making these holistic lifestyle changes, you’re not just preventing disease but actively creating vibrant health for the long term.
by Dr. Amanda Childress | General, General Health
As a holistic pharmacist with years of experience in alternative health, and also as a person who battles chronic illness, I have come to realize that health is not an absolute state. The traditional notion of health often paints a picture of perfection—flawless physicality, absence of disease, and a life free from medical complications. However, this view is both limiting and unrealistic. Health, in its truest sense, is far more nuanced, and its definition needs to reflect that complexity.
The World Health Organization defines health as a “state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” While this is a valuable aspiration, it implies that anything short of perfection is an illness, which doesn’t align with the reality most people live in. Health is a dynamic process, one that is shaped by the actions we take and the conditions we live under, rather than being a static goal that, once achieved, remains unchanging.
Health is not exclusive to those with ideal physical capabilities or circumstances. In fact, some of the healthiest people I have met are those who live with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or other health challenges. What makes them healthy is not the absence of disease but their consistent effort to nurture their bodies and minds with the tools available to them. They embody the understanding that being healthy is about doing the best you can with what you have—not striving for unattainable perfection.
There’s a particularly important aspect of health that is often unacknowledged: at times, people can become too burdened to engage in the healthy behaviors they once practiced. Illness, injury, or unexpected life events can disrupt routines, drain energy, and prevent individuals from being as active or disciplined as they once were. This does not mean they are “less healthy” or that they’ve failed in some way; it simply reflects the reality that our health can fluctuate, often due to circumstances beyond our control.
Take someone who has been dedicated to a holistic lifestyle, eating well, exercising regularly, managing stress, and sleeping sufficiently. Then, they get an illness—perhaps due to a viral infection, an autoimmune condition, or an accident. Their capacity to maintain these healthy habits diminishes, not because of negligence, but because their body is no longer able to support them in the same way or perhaps doesn’t respond the way it used to with the same interventions. This change in capacity doesn’t mean they are no longer “healthy” in the broader sense. They are still doing the best they can, given their new circumstances, and that is a testament to their resilience.
It’s also important to recognize that health is not a moral condition. There is no inherent virtue in being in perfect physical condition, nor is there shame in facing illness. Too often, society equates being healthy with being “good” and being sick with failure. But health, like life itself, is full of complexities and is subject to factors beyond our control—genetics, environment, accidents, and even pandemics can derail the healthiest of lifestyles.
The reality is that maintaining health is an ongoing process, not a static achievement. It requires constant attention, action, and sometimes, acceptance of limitations. Even in states of illness, people can be healthy in their habits and mindset. In fact, I’ve seen some people who are fighting significant health battles demonstrate a more proactive, positive approach to their wellness than individuals who are physically well but neglect their health.
Proactive measures, whether you’re in a state of peak health or managing illness, are crucial. These actions can include basic self-care like drinking plenty of water, eating nourishing foods, and engaging in physical activity (as much as your body allows). But it also involves cultivating a healthy mindset—practicing gratitude, seeking emotional support, and taking time for your peace and spiritual needs.
It’s equally important to recognize the role of rest and recuperation. Sometimes, being healthy means knowing when to stop pushing your body and mind. In a culture that values constant productivity, rest is often undervalued, but it is one of the most essential aspects of healing and maintaining health. Learning to listen to your body and respecting its limits is a key part of a holistic approach to wellness.
Finally, it’s crucial to acknowledge that your health does not exist in a vacuum. There are times when lifestyle factors or other stressors—unemployment, family responsibilities, financial pressures—can worsen your health, not because you are making “bad” choices, but because life itself becomes overwhelming. When life events exacerbate illness or make it harder to stay healthy, it’s a reminder that health is a holistic process, influenced by both internal and external factors.
In essence, being too sick to be healthy doesn’t negate your efforts or your potential for wellness. Health is not about achieving a perfect state but about maintaining a positive relationship with your body, mind, and environment—whatever season your life or physical status is in. Even when illness or adversity strikes, you can continue to live healthily by adapting to your circumstances and practicing kindness toward yourself.
Dr. Amanda Childress, PharmD
by Dr. Amanda Childress | General, General Health, Hormones
In the realm of mental health, anxiety and depression are often approached with a singular focus on medication. However, as a PharmD specializing in holistic health, I advocate for a comprehensive evaluation of physical health before resorting to pharmaceutical interventions. This article aims to shed light on four essential lab parameters that can significantly impact mood: Vitamin D, B12, thyroid function, and iron levels.
The Role of Nutrients in Mood Regulation
Before diving into specific lab parameters, it’s crucial to understand the intricate relationship between nutrients and mood. Vitamin D, often dubbed the “sunshine vitamin,” plays a pivotal role in neurotransmitter synthesis and regulation. Deficiencies in Vitamin D have been linked to increased risk of depression and anxiety disorders.
Similarly, Vitamin B12 is essential for neurological function, including the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. Low levels of B12 have been associated with mood disturbances and cognitive decline.
Iron, vital for oxygen transport and energy production, also influences mood regulation. Iron deficiency can lead to symptoms mirroring depression and anxiety, such as fatigue and irritability.
Thyroid Function and Mood
The thyroid gland, responsible for producing hormones crucial for metabolism and energy regulation, also exerts a profound influence on mood. Hypothyroidism, characterized by an underactive thyroid, is often accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression.
While TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) is routinely measured to assess thyroid function, relying solely on this marker can overlook underlying thyroid dysfunction. Additional parameters such as free T3, free T4, and thyroid antibodies provide a more comprehensive evaluation of thyroid health.
Why Comprehensive Assessment Matters
Addressing anxiety and depression solely through medication overlooks potential underlying physiological imbalances. By evaluating these four key lab parameters, you can identify and address deficiencies or dysfunctions contributing to mood disturbances.
Empowering Patients to Advocate for Their Health
One poignant example underscores the importance of comprehensive assessment in mental health care. A teenage girl, previously prescribed multiple mental health medications, came to me seeking alternative solutions. After conducting thorough bloodwork, we discovered abnormalities in all four parameters: Vitamin D, B12, thyroid function, and iron levels. Her recovery involved addressing these deficiencies, supporting her thyroid function, and gradually weaning off medications. This experience highlights the significance of early detection and intervention through comprehensive assessment, potentially averting unnecessary reliance on pharmaceuticals.
Conclusion
Anxiety and depression are multifaceted conditions influenced by both physiological and psychological factors. By prioritizing a holistic approach that includes evaluating essential lab parameters, we can uncover underlying imbalances and tailor interventions accordingly. Let’s shift the paradigm of mental health care towards comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment strategies, empowering individuals to reclaim their emotional well-being.
Dr. Amanda Childress, PharmD
References:
Holick MF. Vitamin D deficiency. N Engl J Med. 2007;357(3):266-281.
Coppen A, Bolander-Gouaille C. Treatment of depression: time to consider folic acid and vitamin B12. J Psychopharmacol. 2005;19(1):59-65.
Beard JL. Iron deficiency and neural development: an update. Arch Latinoam Nutr. 1999;49(3 Suppl 2):62S-65S.
Thyroid Pharmacist. Accessed at: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/why-tsh-alone-is-not-enough/
