Category: Articles

Puffed foods—whether made from corn, rice, quinoa, or even vegetables—are often marketed as light, healthy, organic, non-GMO, and convenient. But much like something (or someone) that’s a little too “puffed up,” there may be more "show" than real substance. To create that airy, crispy texture, whole foods undergo intensive industrial processing (ultra-processed foods, or UPFs).…

For decades, ibuprofen and acetaminophen have been the go-to remedies for everyday aches and pains. Found in nearly every household medicine cabinet, these drugs are considered safe when used as directed. Yet, emerging research suggests their impact may not be as harmless as once thought, raising concerns for both individual health and the global community.…

Mushrooms are having a moment—and for good reason. Long valued in traditional healing systems, these fascinating fungi are now gaining recognition in functional medicine for their wide-ranging benefits. From supporting immune balance to enhancing cognitive function, mushrooms offer a unique combination of nutrients and bioactive compounds that can nourish and protect the body in powerful…

Many people think carefully about what they eat—but far fewer stop to consider what they put on their bodies every day. Your skin is your largest organ and home to a rich ecosystem of microorganisms that make up the skin microbiome, a key part of your immune defense. From an integrative medicine perspective, protecting this…

Most people today have heard about the gut microbiome. But the gut is only one part of a much larger microbial ecosystem that protects and regulates the body. A microbiome refers to the community of beneficial microorganisms—primarily bacteria, but also fungi and viruses—that live on and inside us. These microbes are not just passive passengers.…

Raising teens can feel like juggling fire and balls at the same time. First, growth spurts, hormones, and mood swings can throw off sleep, energy, and focus. At the same time, you might notice arguments over homework, friends, social media usage, or even who left the laundry on the floor.  This could all be due…

If you’ve ever felt unwell after eating a certain food, you may have wondered whether you’re dealing with a food allergy, a food sensitivity, or something else entirely. These terms are often used interchangeably in everyday conversation, but medically speaking, they are not the same, and understanding the difference can help you make better decisions…

Most people are familiar with almonds, walnuts, and Brazil nuts, but a lesser-known nut is quietly gaining attention in the nutrition world: the baru nut. Native to the Brazilian savanna, this nutrient-dense food offers an impressive profile of protein, fiber, healthy fats, and minerals, making baru nuts a compelling addition to a healthy whole-food diet.…

Many chronic symptoms people experience today — digestive issues, fatigue, anxiety, poor sleep, and inflammation — are not isolated problems. They are often signs of a nervous system that has become stuck in sympathetic dominance, also known as “fight or flight.”  A key player in restoring balance is vagal tone, which reflects how well your…