Nutrition and Lifestyle

by Dr. Aaron Zadek ND, CISSN Dietary fiber plays an important role in maintaining gut health and function.  Fiber is useful in helping feel full after meals, ensuring our bowel movements are regular as well as stimulating the growth of healthy bacteria to allow the gut microbiome to thrive. It is important that fiber, both soluble and insoluble, is included in everyday consumption to ensure optimal gut health (1). These fibers are found in a variety of different foods as well as prebiotic and full fiber supplements that can be used in times of bowel irregularity or for general health

As any good builder can attest, creating a strong foundation is imperative. Likewise, in health, we want to ensure that we are providing each bodily system with the key structures for proper physiology. See the thing is our bodies are very good at knowing what to do in the right circumstances. So, when we talk about health optimization, we are really talking about creating those “right” circumstances.  Of course, we all have different needs depending on our dietary habits, current health status, environment, and genetic predispositions. That being said there are some universal principles we all need to take stock

February is heart health month so of course we start to see more posts on heart-healthy recipes and natural ingredients. One thing you might notice is that many of these natural compounds fall into the category of antioxidants. This is a broad term that includes any substance that that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that are produced in our bodies as results of normal cell energy production or from external damaging influences (i.e. UV radiation, chemicals etc.). The cardiovascular system is especially sensitive to the effects of free radicals.

By: Dr. Robyn Murphy, ND Your genes are the same throughout life, so genetic testing could technically be done from the point of conception; however, this seems somewhat invasive. Joking aside, this question comes up frequently from savvy parents looking to make the best lifestyle and dietary choices for their kids for prevention as well as optimizing their potential. Some key information is available to parents using genetic testing. 1.  Dietary restrictions Genetic testing is exceptionally helpful for parents who want to know if their child is at risk for Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. It is especially helpful if a

By: Dr. Robyn Murphy, ND The verdict is in, your genes are not your destiny. Advances in genetics and epigenetics have evolved through observations that environmental factors influence genetic expression to directly impact an individual’s health. Epigenetic changes are reversible while effects of genetic variations are modifiable. 1,2 Today, in the midst of personalized medicine, understanding an individual’s genetic blueprint provides simple yet powerful strategies to significantly make a difference in one’s health. While science reveals how general lifestyle strategies in diet, exercise and stress reduction significantly impacts epigenetic modifications and thus gene expression and risk for disease; it is

By: Dr. Robyn Murphy, ND Are your genes your destiny? This common question is top of mind for most, especially for those who are considering genetic testing. Questioning whether or not you really want to know, in fear that nothing can be done. Well, the simple answer is, NO, your genes are not your destiny. While this may be due to a number of factors, such as the impact of the gene, the main topic of this article is discussing how epigenetics and particular lifestyle strategies can positively influence health, and that knowing your genes may just be the missing

Finding the perfect, unique, and appropriate gift for your loved ones can be a stressful task. Luckily, we came up some gift recommendations for you. Maybe these ideas will remind you of someone on your list. Your ex-professional golfing dad (at least he thought he was pro) is having a hard time getting out of bed in the morning with stiff joints and rickety knees. He dislikes taking medication is willing to try natural supplements. Gift recommendation: P.E.A.k Endocannabinoid Support Why: Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) has widespread activity in supporting and sustaining the endocannabinoid system. PEA is scientifically shown to help reduce

Throughout our lives our weight will change. In fact, throughout the day it will change. Sometimes we will be 10 pounds up and sometimes we may be 10 pounds down. As the culture of wellness evolves and matures, so too does the concept of “weight management”. The simple formula of calories out>calories in=SKINNY=HAPPY is laughably reductionist, but it is also quite harmful. The reality is that every BODY has its own ideal form. By this I mean you may have a genetic predisposition to an optimal body shape and your environment, nutrition, hormone function, activity, stress, and sleep all correspond