Tag: wellness

  • Rosemary & Sage Apple Cider Fizz

    Rosemary & Sage Apple Cider Fizz

    Rosemary & Sage Apple Cider Fizz

    The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a creative and herb-forward cocktail that brings together the warm notes of apple cider with the aromatic essence of rosemary and sage?

    Rosemary & Sage Apple Cider Fizz

    This herb-forward creative cocktail combines the earthy flavors of rosemary and sage with the sweetness of apple cider and a touch of effervescence.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 1
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 oz gin
    • 4 oz apple cider
    • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
    • 3 fresh sage leaves
    • 1 sprig of rosemary
    • sparkling water or club soda
    • ice cubes
    • apple slices and fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

    Method
     

    1. Muddle Sage and Rosemary: In a shaker, muddle the fresh sage and rosemary leaves to release their flavor.
    2. Add Ingredients: Add gin, apple cider, and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
    3. Shake Well: Add ice to the shaker, close the lid tightly, and shake the ingredients vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
    4. Strain into Glass: Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
    5. Top with Sparkling Water: Pour sparkling water or club soda over the mixture for a fizzy finish. Adjust the amount based on your preference.
    6. Garnish: Garnish with apple slices and a sprig of fresh rosemary.
    7. Stir Gently and Enjoy: Give the cocktail a gentle stir to mix in the sparkling water. Sip and savor!
  • Are you getting enough sleep?

    Are you getting enough sleep?

    Are you getting enough sleep?

    Why it matters, and what you should do.

    Approximately 25 to 33 percent of us aren’t getting enough sleep. While one night of lost sleep can impair mindfulness and reduce performance during the day that follows, the effects are usually corrected once sleep is restored. But the repercussions of chronic sleep loss are of greater concern for quality of life and disease risk in the years to come.

    Are you clocking enough hours?


    Experts suggest that six hours is the minimum length of sleep required for optimal health in average adults. A recent study investigated the impact of having fewer than six hours of sleep for eight consecutive nights. The findings suggested that just one night of insufficient sleep can cause both mental and physical symptoms, which worsen with consecutive nights of lost sleep.

    Consequences of chronic sleep loss


    Chronic sleep loss can contribute to systemic low-grade inflammation, which is involved in the development of conditions such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, and neurodegeneration. Research shows that sleep disturbance increases the risk of infectious disease and contributes to the development of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and depression.

    Sleep Rx


    Sleep allows the body to rest and repair, the effects of which are crucial for daytime functioning and overall health.

    • Mood: Sleep is vital for emotional processing and memory consolidation.
      Performance: Sleep loss impairs the speed and accuracy of task performance, decision-making, and exercise recovery.
    • Hormones: Sleep drives the synthesis of reproductive hormones, and sleep deprivation is associated with infertility in both men and women.
    • Immunity: Sleep promotes balance in the immune system by regulating inflammatory mediators known as cytokines.
    • Metabolism: Chronic sleep loss increases the risk of metabolic dysfunction and loss of muscle mass.

    Sleep tips to try


    Looking for a better night’s sleep? Start here.

    • Have a power nap. Napping has been shown to improve performance and alertness among those with regular sleep deprivation, including night shift workers and pilots.
    • Get your iron levels checked. Iron deficiency can contribute to restless leg syndrome, sleeping disorders, and chronic fatigue. To assess your iron storage, ask your doctor to test ferritin in the blood. If ferritin is low but you’re eating plenty of iron-rich foods, look into potential hindrances to iron absorption, such as antacid use, celiac disease, and pylori infection.
    • Ask your health care practitioner about supplements, such as melatonin, valerian, or passion flower.
    • Cut the caffeine cycle. It’s no surprise that caffeine can reduce total sleep time, impair sleep quality, and cause dependence. Baby steps are better than cold turkey. Slowly weaning off caffeine reduces the risk of caffeine withdrawal headaches and migraines.
    • Be mindful. Improve sleep quality and quantity with lifestyle practices such as deep breathing, yoga, mindfulness meditation, tai chi, and barefoot grounding.

    By Dr. Cassie Irwin, ND

    Content Courtesy of Alive Magazine

  • How to eat for diabetes

    How to eat for diabetes

    How to eat for diabetes

    The power of a plant-based diet

    Diabetes is a “silent killer.” Here’s how a plant-based dietary pattern (not a strict diet) can be a healthier way to manage diabetes.

    A diabetes recap


    Type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes is an autoimmune disease that generally develops in childhood or adolescence. The body can’t produce insulin and thus can’t regulate blood sugar. Insulin injections or an insulin pump is necessary to ensure the body has the right amount of insulin.

    Type 2 diabetes, most commonly developed in adulthood, occurs when the body can’t properly use its own insulin—or not enough insulin is produced. Type 2 diabetes can sometimes be managed with healthy eating and regular exercise alone, but may also require medications or insulin therapy.

    Know the signs


    Discovery is a crucial first step. Millions of people live with type 2 diabetes and don’t even know it.

    People who are asymptomatic, haven’t followed up on symptoms (which can include frequent urination, blurry vision, and extreme thirst), or don’t often use the health care system may not get a diagnosis until they’ve had it for years. This may mean they need more intensive treatments than if the disease had been caught earlier.

    Get the right care


    Diabetes is a progressive condition, which means that treatment plans should evolve along with the disease. Behavioral modifications such as a plant-based diet may help with blood sugar control at first, but eventually more extensive treatments such as blood glucose monitoring or medication may become necessary.

    What difference do plants make?


    The increased soluble fiber in many plant-based foods such as Brussels sprouts, black beans, and root vegetables can slow carbohydrate absorption and bind glucose. This slower rate of absorption helps stabilize blood sugars.

    In contrast, high amounts of refined sugar and carbohydrates spike glucose and cause the pancreas to produce extra insulin. Some of the extra glucose may be converted into triglycerides in the liver, and the fat may be shipped to the tissues.

    Vegan or vegetarian diets are also typically higher in pulses (like such as barley or quinoa). The high magnesium content of these whole grains helps regulate glucose, improves insulin sensitivity, and controls energy metabolism.

    Finally, vegetarians and vegans tend to consume fewer saturated fats. Since many meats contain more fat and calories, they may increase the risk of diabetes. In fact, some research suggests that red meat should be included in the list of diabetes risk factors.

    Remember—“vegetarian” doesn’t always mean “healthy”


    While a plant-based diet pattern is often higher in fiber, vitamins, and nutrients, it doesn’t guarantee weight loss or stable blood sugar levels. Check with your health care practitioner before adopting a new diet.

    Consider supplements


    Supplements to support healthy blood sugar include:

    • protein
    • magnesium
    • peppermint
    • pharmaGABA
    • quercetin


    The type and amount of supplemental support depend on your health, eating patterns, and lifestyle. Since supplements can interact with medications, it’s important to create an individualized plan with your health care practitioner.

    By Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen

    Content Courtesy of Alive Magazine

  • Combat loneliness as you age

    Combat loneliness as you age

    Combat loneliness as you age

    How to stay social and connected

    Far too often society brushes aside loneliness and social isolation as inevitable parts of aging. In reality, they are perilous issues, thought to increase one’s risk of things such as dementia, depression, and cardiovascular disease. Here’s how to protect yourself against loneliness as you age.

    A common problem


    Lana Adams never really experienced loneliness until she hit her seventies; for 68-year-old Uli Novak, it was when he retired. “I suddenly had all these empty days to fill,” Novak recalls. “I missed the daily banter with colleagues—and feeling needed and productive.”

    Adams’ and Novak’s stories are all too common. Although having fewer social connections as one ages contributes to loneliness, it doesn’t paint the whole picture. Things including loss of touch and intimacy, illness or disability, and bereavement of loved ones can all play a role. Pervasive ageist attitudes also contribute, as many seniors feel pushed to the periphery of society.

    And existential questions—such as “how is my life important?”—can also crop up. “I want this chapter of my life to be about more than just keeping busy,” says 73-year-old Barbara Hylton, who knows she’s not alone in this sentiment.

    There are no quick fixes to eradicate loneliness and isolation, and addressing these issues needs to occur at a widespread, systemic level. At the same time, smaller-scale, meaningful solutions to prevent and treat loneliness do exist.

    Consider a pet


    Studies suggest that the human-animal bond is a powerful one; it can decrease things such as blood pressure and stress and protect against cognitive decline in older adults.

    Nurture a positive mindset


    One study found that keeping a daily list of three positive events decreased stress in adults aged 60 and over.

    Foster intergenerational connections


    Research shows that when kids get regular care and attention from older adults, they have fewer emotional and behavioral problems. Older individuals also reap the benefits; studies show that regularly involved grandparents experience decreased risk of depression, cognitive decline, and mortality.

    Build a support network


    Having more hobbies and increased contact with friends and family reduces loneliness across age, gender, and other lifestyle factors. Combining social interaction with physical activity may be especially effective.

    Of course, socializing can be taxing if one is suffering from illness or disability, which can severely limit daily activities. Virtual alternatives—such as online support groups or messaging programs—can combat some of the impacts of loneliness for those with limitations.

    Give back


    When Hylton started volunteering with a seniors’ support program a couple years ago, it gave her a sense of purpose. “I like connecting with people older than I am, playing cards together or helping them out, and just sharing our stories,” she says.

    The health benefits of volunteerism are well documented, including its positive impact on longevity.

    By Dr. Amy Green

    Content courtesy of Alive Magazine

  • Pumpkin Soup

    Pumpkin Soup

    Pumpkin Soup

    This Pumpkin Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly Thanksgiving day.

    It’s a simple yet flavorful addition to your holiday spread, and it’s a great way to embrace the flavors of the season.

    Enjoy the comfort and healthiness of this soup as you gather with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving.

    Elisa Franco

    Pumpkin Soup

    Warm up your Thanksgiving dinner with a cozy and nutritious Pumpkin Soup. This hearty soup is a fantastic way to incorporate seasonal flavors into your holiday menu while keeping it healthy.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 4
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 cans pumpkin puree
    • 1 medium onion finely chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic minced
    • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
    • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
    • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
    • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
    • salt and pepper to taste
    • 1 cup heavy cream or substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option
    • 2 tblsp olive oil or butter
    • roasted pumpkin seeds for toppings
    • 1 bunch parsley chopped, for toppings
    • 1 dollop sour cream or yogurt for toppings

    Method
     

    1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or melt the butter over medium heat.
    2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
    3. Add the canned pumpkin to the pot and stir well.
    4. Season the mixture with the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and pepper. Continue to stir, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.
    5. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
    6. Reduce the heat to low, and then stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) to the soup. Let it heat through but avoid boiling.
    7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
    8. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings, such as roasted pumpkin seeds, fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream or yogurt.
  • Cranberry and Walnut Stuffed Acorn Squash

    Cranberry and Walnut Stuffed Acorn Squash

    Cranberry and Walnut Stuffed Acorn Squash

    Acorn squash is a quintessential fall ingredient, and this Cranberry and Walnut Stuffed Acorn Squash recipe celebrates its natural sweetness while adding a delightful twist. It’s a gorgeous and healthy dish that will elevate your Thanksgiving table.

    Elisa Franco

    Cranberry and Walnut Stuffed Acorn Squash

    This Cranberry and Walnut Stuffed Acorn Squash is a work of art on your Thanksgiving table, and its taste is just as impressive. With the sweetness of the squash, the tartness of cranberries, and the crunch of walnuts, it's a symphony of flavors. Enjoy this healthy, elegant dish as you give thanks this holiday season.
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    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 acorn squashes halved and seeds removed
    • 1 cup quinoa rinsed
    • 2 cups vegetable broth or bone broth
    • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
    • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
    • 2 tblsp maple syrup
    • 2 tblsp olive oil
    • salt and pepper to taste

    Method
     

    1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
    2. Place the halved acorn squashes on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle them with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
    3. Roast the squashes for about 35-40 minutes, or until they are tender.
    4. While the squashes are roasting, rinse the quinoa thoroughly and cook it in vegetable or bone broth according to package instructions.
    5. Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in dried cranberries and chopped walnuts.
    6. Fill each roasted acorn squash half with the quinoa mixture.
    7. Place the stuffed squash back in the oven for an additional 10 minutes.
    8. Serve warm, drizzled with a bit of maple syrup if desired.
  • Roasted Butternut Squash and Quinoa Salad

    Roasted Butternut Squash and Quinoa Salad

    Roasted Butternut Squash and Quinoa Salad

    As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s essential to have some healthier options on the menu. This Roasted Butternut Squash and Quinoa Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a perfect side dish to balance out the indulgent treats on your Thanksgiving table.

    Elisa Franco

    Roasted Butternut Squash and Quinoa Salad

    This Roasted Butternut Squash and Quinoa Salad is a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving spread. It's not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nourishing choice for your body. Enjoy this healthy, colorful dish as you celebrate gratitude and good food this Thanksgiving!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 4
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 small butternut squash peeled and diced
    • 1 cup quinoa rinsed
    • 1 cup kale chopped
    • 2 cups vegetable broth
    • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
    • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
    • 1/4 cup pecans chopped
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • salt and pepper to taste

    Method
     

    1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
    2. Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
    3. While the squash is roasting, rinse the quinoa thoroughly and cook it in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
    4. Once the quinoa and butternut squash are ready, combine them in a large bowl.
    5. Add pomegranate seeds, chopped parsley, chopped kale and chopped pecans. Mix well.
    6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
  • Gluten Free Banana Bread with Oats

    Gluten Free Banana Bread with Oats

    Gluten Free Banana Bread with Oats

    Are you looking for a delicious and wholesome twist on classic banana bread?

    You’re in for a treat! This recipe combines the comforting flavor of ripe bananas with the heartiness of oats, making it a perfect breakfast or snack option.

    Plus, it’s gluten-free without the need for any specialty flour. Let’s dive into making this delectable oat-based banana bread.

    Elisa Franco

    Gluten Free Banana Bread with Oats

    A delicious and gluten-free banana bread recipe made with hearty oats!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 6
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 3 ripe bananas mashed
    • 1/3 cup melted butter or a dairy-free alternative
    • 1 tsp baking soda
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • Pinch of salt
    • 1/2 cup coconut sugar or sweetener of choice
    • 1 large egg beaten
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • 1.5 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
    • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
    • 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
    • 1/2 cup chopped nuts optional
    • 1/2 cup chocolate chips optional

    Method
     

    1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
    2. Prepare the Bananas: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until they form a smooth puree.
    3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas. Then, add the baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
    4. Sweeten It Up: Add the coconut sugar to the banana mixture, followed by the beaten egg and vanilla extract. Stir until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
    5. Oats and More: In a separate bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, baking powder, and ground cinnamon.
    6. Mix Everything Together: Gradually add the dry oat mixture to the banana mixture, stirring until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; simply combine until there are no visible streaks of dry ingredients.
    7. Optional Add-Ins: If you desire extra texture and flavor, fold in the chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
    8. Baking Time: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan.
    9. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45-60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean. Depending on your oven, start checking around 40 minutes.
    10. Cooling and Serving: Once done, remove your oat-based banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • ’Til midlife do us part

    ’Til midlife do us part

    ’Til midlife do us part

    Create well-being during and after divorce

    When people decide to marry, it’s arguably with the intention of sharing a lifetime. And the ideal of lifelong partnership has historically been a social expectation. Although in recent years the upward trend of “grey divorce” (over age 50) has slowed, the highest percentage of marital splits in Canada and the US still happens at midlife. What’s happening?

    Changing perspectives

    Only in the last century has our lifespan increased by about 20 years and given us “middle years” between youth and old age. For many, these years are a time of reflection. We start to consider our mortality and realize we have less time ahead of us than behind. Not only have we learned a lot, but we still have the time, energy, health—and often freedom—to make changes.

    Updating your status

    Although the stigma of divorce has lost its sting, it can be a difficult conversation in some religious groups, or with parents and children. Experts agree that any children—no matter their ages—should hear the news before you make it public. Be honest with your offspring, but also have boundaries firmly in place about what they need to know.

    And while you think that your adult children will accept the news easily, be prepared to parent them through it, especially if they aren’t expecting it. Adult children may have a difficult time with the news and question the reality of their entire childhood. Be available to have some difficult conversations.

    Get support

    Consider working with a counselor, minister, therapist, or relationship life coach who can help you understand your role in the demise of your marriage. You are intimately aware of your previous partner’s role, and unless you acknowledge your own contributions, you will likely make the same mistakes in future relationships.

    Take time for yourself

    Particularly if the divorce was a long time coming, you might be tempted to rush into the dating pool, but experts suggest taking a pause before testing the waters. Whether you wanted the divorce or not, it’s a troubling experience. Give yourself time to heal. Get to know yourself as an individual after long-term coupledom.

    Healthy dating

    It can be tempting to let loneliness drive your desire to date. Instead, find ways to fill your social calendar through friendships, volunteering, hobbies, and support groups. Who knows? You might meet your next partner while you’re out doing something you enjoy!

    If you still have children living in your home, dating can be a tricky thing. Research on divorced mothers has shown that younger children become stressed when mom’s dating relationships end, so consider minimizing their exposure to a love interest until you are confident that the relationship has legs.

    Have fun

    Dating isn’t supposed to be a chore. It’s really about learning whether new people complement your life. Best of all? That decision is all yours.

    By Lisa Petty, PhD

    Content courtesy of Alive Magazine

  • Your blueprint for pain-free aging

    Your blueprint for pain-free aging

    Your blueprint for pain-free aging

    Top tips to start today

    While it’s a blessing to live a long life, the aging process comes with its share of aches and pains. The healing process is slower in an aging body, so underestimating pain, delaying treatment, or avoiding care due to pain-related fear may contribute to the development of chronic pain and associated disability.

    Here’s the good news: treating acute pain appropriately may prevent its development into chronic pain, while managing existing chronic pain can improve quality of life and promote a healthy lifespan in the years to come.

    When pain overstays its welcome
    Acute pain is usually triggered by injury or trauma and serves as a protection mechanism to deter us from further insult.

    But when acute pain is poorly managed, a pathological process takes place in the central and peripheral nervous systems, known as sensitization. This mechanism is theorized to drive the development of chronic pain. Pain is considered chronic when it has persisted for three months or longer.

    Collaborative care
    Curate your multidisciplinary pain management team by seeking the care of diverse practitioners, such as a naturopathic doctor, acupuncturist, psychotherapist, hypnotherapist, and osteopathic manual therapist. These care providers can offer evidence-based pain management treatments.

    Evidence-based pain treatments
    Acupuncture     relieves pain by encouraging the body’s own production of opiates, endorphins, and corticosteroids, and has been shown to reduce chronic low back pain.
    Mind-body approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction help reduce chronic low back pain.
    Hypnotherapy is effective in reducing chronic pain for some individuals.
    Osteopathy is shown to be helpful in some cases of low back pain.
    Music therapy is effective in lowering pain for palliative care patients.

    Fight inflammation with food
    An anti-inflammatory approach to eating is helpful for managing acute and chronic pain. Cut back on sugar, processed foods, and trans fats, and opt for a food plan based on whole foods including fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, fish and unprocessed meats, and whole grains.

    If your pain originates from the digestive tract or from an autoimmune condition, consider testing for sensitivities to gluten and other foods.

    Easing up is wise
    With acute pain, it’s particularly important to rest the painful area to reduce inflammation and allow for healing. Manage chronic pain by interspersing periods of rest throughout activities that aggravate your pain.

    Staying active is important
    On top of strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and promoting joint stability, research suggests that exercise also increases the body’s production of pain-relieving molecules known as endocannabinoids.

    Of course, when pain interferes with exercise, we have a problem! Consult with a physiotherapist or kinesiologist for an individualized exercise treatment program, which has been shown to reduce pain and promote function.

    Mind over matter works wonders
    We can tap into the mind-body connection and use it to our advantage! Optimism is protective against day-to-day pain-related disruptions and increases goal-directed activity in older adults.

    Dr. Cassie Irwin, ND

    Content courtesy of Alive Magazine