January 2023 Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast AL/MS

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Resistant Depression or Dementia?

Letters to the Editor

Michelle, I picked up a Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast July issue and saw that you are the publisher. I did not know that!

Congratulations, that is very exciting. I read Natural Awakenings all the time, but I guess I hadn’t recognized your picture on your inside cover until today. I hope to talk to you soon!

Best Regards, Blake Martin Co-Founder, Connexus Health, LLC

Hello Michelle Smith, I am writing this email, just to say that I really appreciate the Natural Awakenings publication that I pick up every month at Winn Dixie in Fairhope.

I am 68 years young and I still enjoy reading from a paper publication, holding it in my hands and not on a device. I like the format and the way the team presents the information.

I always seem to pick up a couple nuggets of info that really help me through the day.

I happen to see the topics for the upcoming year in the December edition and they all look very entertaining!

Please keep up the great work.

Gary in Fairhope, AL

Hi Michelle, I was advised to reach out to you as Natural Awakenings might be interested in doing an article.

Gary Gover, founder of the Homestead Village community garden in Fairhope and current board member, is the one who suggested that I reach out to you. He thought it would be of interest to the community.

If this sounds like something you'd like to publish, please let me know.

Thank you, Julie Groth

Joy in January

Dear Friends,

Happy New Year! Don’t you just love January 1? It is a day that promises a clean slate, a chance to start afresh and find new joy in the coming year. I find joy in little things: an unexpected phone call; a new connection; a good story unfolding… whether in my life or someone else’s, I love to be near that spark of joy when it arrives in someone’s world.

I found out earlier this year that I will have another granddaughter. Clara Grace Austin. Joy! She will be joining us this month or early next. I understand why babies are called “little bundles of joy.” First, they are genuinely a miracle from God. Second, everything they do is “a first.” If you try, you can even find joy in all the crying and pooping. At least they are healthy!

In 2021, I started a theme for my daily life that I will carry into 2023. It’s posted right in front of me: Healthy Body, Peaceful Mind, Joyful Heart. I try to incorporate it throughout my life. Of course, there are days when I don’t succeed but I always work toward it. If it resonates with you, post it where you will see it every day! If you already have a theme or mantra, share it with me via email or on our Facebook page. You never know who will be inspired.

This brings me to our LETTERS TO THE EDITOR. As you see to your left, these are a few notes received via email that brought me joy in the moment because they shared a heartfelt sentiment of encouragement or appeal. I wanted to offer them to you and encourage you to send me your thoughts on how Natural Awakenings has brought you joy, healing or peace of mind. We may publish your thoughts and answer questions you have on holistic healing.

Blake is a friend who recently opened a Health & Wellness clinic in Mobile that focuses on men’s and women’s intimate health (ED and pelvic floor therapies); all natural, nonsurgical therapies designed to help restore confidence so they can feel their best. I was happy to hear such therapies are available in our area. Thank you, Blake.

Gary wrote a note of appreciation on how much he enjoys Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast and encouraged me to keep up the good work. Now that is joy I need in my life! Thank you, Gary.

Julie is a local organic gardener who felt her story and her work with truly organic growing could impact others who want to thrive by growing and consuming clean, chemical-free vegetables and fruits. Thank you, Julie.

These LETTERS TO THE EDITOR fulfilled my quest this month toward a healthy body, peaceful mind and joyful heart. Thank you to all who hold dear our publication. Let’s have a wonderfully intentional 2023.

God bless you and keep you,

•

Michelle Smith, Publisher

May the Force Be With You

Bonedensity is one of the most important aspects of the body because it is the foundation that holds the body upright. The muscles ride on the bone to protect it, the ligaments and tendons attach to it and the central nervous system activates it. The skeletal system is highly complex and continues to replace itself every 7 to 10 years from the inside out.

Some people overlook this important system and don’t realize that new growth of bone slows with age. In fact, the body hits peak bone mass between 25 and 30 years of age and then begins to lose 1 to 3 percent annually. Older bones become more porous and, if this goes too far, it can become low bone density or osteoporosis. Loss of bone is one reason that someone can exercise regularly but still get weaker or experience repetitive injuries. Musculoskeletal strengthening can address most of these problems.

“The greatest effect on bone strength and health is the result of high-impact activities. The solution is to engage in impact type exercises or strength training, which becomes challenging or even unsafe because of conditioning levels and traditional training environments,” says Josh Fandrich, Owner of Fairhope and Mobile OsteoStrong.

OsteoStrong utilizes robotic musculoskeletal treatment devices with high impact emulation so that people can get the benefit of impact without the associated risk, providing a physical medicine option that has no side effects. Sessions are always administered by a coach and the data is captured in real time, measured and charted to ensure the loading events are high enough to achieve osteogenesis, which is what triggers the body to grow bone more rapidly.

“As new bone grows faster, the central nervous system allows the muscles, tendons and ligaments to become stronger,” says Fandrich. “This is not only going to address osteoporosis, but also balance, strength, joint and back pain.”

Location: 333 Greeno Rd., Suite 2B, 2724 Old Shell Rd., Suite D. 251-210-6955. Fairhope@OsteoStrong.me or 251-5868226. MidtownMobile@OsteoStrong.me. See ad, page 19.

New Habits for the New Year

Manypeople start out strong with New Year’s resolutions, but soon find them in the rearview mirror. “That was my reason for adding hypnotherapy to my Life Coach Practice,” says MaryBeth Svatek, M.A., Certified Hypnotherapist and Life Coach. “We are the product of our unconscious and conscious thoughts and, unless we change our mindset, it is inevitable to fall back into poor habits.”

Svatek says that hypnotherapy is one of the most effective ways to drive change because people can access information from the subconscious regarding what drives self-defeating habits and behaviors. With this information, Svatek’s clients begin to dispel incorrect self-stories, rewrite their self-narrative and then use this as a launch pad to pilot the desired change.

MaryBeth Svatek

Another tool Svatek applies with her clients is her accredited coaching program. The Energy Model of Therapeutic Change is a behavior modification program for those who are ready to do the work. She has found it to be extremely effective by itself and even better paired with hypnotherapy.

In the 1990s, Svatek developed her own therapy model, The Energy Model of Therapeutic Change (EMTC), and offers certification training accredited by the IMDHA for qualified life coaches and therapists who want to become EMTC practitioners.

“In order to deflect drama, chaos and unhealthy habits or people before they gain access to you, I recommend hypnotherapy and the Energy Model of Therapeutic Change coaching program because it enables you to tap into your own God-given intuition and higher mind to gain the information you need and then to put the tools and newly developed skills to work,” says Svatek.

7th Anniversary Bash and More

Shoshana Treichel, owner of Above and Beyond Yoga and Salt Therapy in Mobile is excited to announce the studio’s 7th anniversary in January along with a two-week retreat to India in March.

Voyagers to the March 13-25 retreat will join Treichel and Nrithya Jagannathan, Executive Director at the Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram, for time in the mountains around Rishikesh, at the beach in Kochi, on to Mysore and ending at the world renowned Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram in Chennai where Treichel attended and graduated from a three-year program. Treichel and Jagannathan welcome anyone to the retreat who is interested in diving deeper into all aspects of yoga. “This is an epic two-week event that will visit three very distinct areas of India, including Chennai where the mothership of all yoga originated from,” says Treichel.

On January 15, the staff of Above and Beyond will host the studio’s 7th Anniversary Bash. Gershone Hendelberg and Gina Minyard from Georgia will be leading a slow flow and restorative yoga class with live mantra music from 4 to 5 p.m. to open participants to a deeper experience of grounded, blissful nature. “Yoga and live music together reach where separately they cannot go alone,” says Treichel. “With decades of devoted practice and offerings between them, Gina and Gershone weave together their respective arts to invite you into bliss and presence and deeper into your heart and into connection with each other.”

Following the class there will be more live music during a special dinner prepared by local chef, Jennifer Tanner.

The celebration will also include the Happy Natural Mama from which Alexandria Chambliss will be offering a plethora of organic and healthy products and free chair massages.

Pre-registration for the anniversary bash is required. Book online at AbhotYoga.com or call 251-639-9030. $30 per person ($25 for members) includes the party, class and dinner.

Location: 878 Hillcrest Rd., Ste. C, Mobile. 251-639-9030. For information on class schedules and other events visit ABHotYoga.com. For more information on the India retreat, contact Jake@ABHotYoga.com. See ad, page 6.

Gershone Hendelberg and Gina Minyard

Nrithya Jagannathan and Shoshana Treichel

Natural Virus Killer Copper can stop a virus

before it starts

By Doug Cornell

Scientists have discovered a natural way to kill germs fast. Now thousands of people are using it against viruses and bacteria that cause illness.

Colds and many other illnesses start when viruses get in your nose and multiply. If you don’t stop them early, they spread and cause misery.

Hundreds of studies confirm copper kills viruses and bacteria almost instantly just by touch.

That’s why ancient Greeks and Egyptians used copper to purify water and heal wounds. They didn’t know about viruses and bacteria, but now we do.

“The antimicrobial activity of copper is well established.” National Institutes of Health.

Scientists say copper’s high conductance disrupts the electrical balance in a microbe cell and destroys it in seconds.

The EPA recommended hospitals use copper for touch surfaces like faucets and doorknobs. This cut the spread of MRSA and other illnesses by over half, and saved lives.

The strong scientific evidence gave inventor Doug Cornell an idea. He made a smooth copper probe

with a tip to fit in the bottom of the nostril, where viruses collect.

When he felt a tickle in his nose like a cold about to start, he rubbed the copper gently in his nose for 60 seconds.

“It worked!” he exclaimed. “The cold never happened. I used to get 2-3 bad colds every year. Now I use my device whenever I feel a sign I am about to get sick.”

He hasn’t had a cold in 10 years.

Users say:

“It works! I love it!”

“I can’t believe how good my nose feels.”

“Is it supposed to work that fast?” “One of the best presents ever.”

“Sixteen flights, not a sniffle!”

“Cold sores gone!”

“It saved me last holidays. The kids all got sick, but not me.”

“I am shocked! My sinus cleared, no more headache, no more congestion.”

“Best sleep I’ve had in years!”

After his first success with it, he asked relatives and friends to try it. They all said it worked, so he patented CopperZap® and put it on the market.

Soon hundreds of people had tried it. 99% said copper worked if they used it right away at the first sign of germs, like a tickle in the nose or a scratchy throat.

Longtime users say they haven’t been sick in years. They have less stress, less medical costs, and more time to enjoy life.

Soon people found other things they could use it against.

Colds

Flu

Virus variants

Sinus trouble

Cold sores

Fever blisters

Canker sores

Strep throat Night stuffiness

Morning congestion

Nasal drip

Infected sores Infected wounds Styes Warts Ringworm Other microbial threats

The handle is curved and textured to increase contact. Copper can kill germs picked up on fingers and hands after you touch things other people have touched.

The EPA says copper works just as well when tarnished.

Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the science teams. He placed millions of viruses on a copper surface. “They started to die literally as soon as they touched it.”

CopperZap® is made in the USA of pure copper. It has a 90-day full money back guarantee. Price $79.95. Get $10 off each CopperZap with code NATA34

Go to www.CopperZap.com or call toll-free 1-888-411-6114. Buy once, use forever.

Statements are not intended as product health claims and have not been evaluated by the FDA. Not claimed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

New research: Copper kills viruses in seconds.

A New Look at Saturated Fat

Multiple Benefits for Early Rising Active Seniors

Older adults that consistently get up early and stay active throughout the day are happier and perform better on cognitive tests than those with irregular activity patterns, according to a new study led by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh. The researchers studied 1,800 adults 65 or older and divided them into four subgroups of activity patterns: earlier rising/robust, shorter activity duration/less modellable, shorter active periods/very weak and later activity offset/very weak. Both groups with weak rhythms had twofold odds of clinically significant depression symptoms and cognitive performance deficits. As we age, disruption in activity patterns may be common. More research is needed into why earlier and robust patterns appear to be protective and whether modifying disrupted patterns improves health outcomes.

Two Cups of Tea May Avert Early Death

A few cups of black tea a day might help to avoid an early death, a study published in Annals of Internal Medicine suggests. Among nearly half a million adults ranging from 40 to 69 years old, those that consumed two or more cups of tea a day saw a modest, but lower risk for all causes of mortality over a median follow-up of more than 11 years. Participants of the large cohort study, called UK Biobank, self-reported tea intake from 2006 to 2010, while researchers noted mortality from all causes, including cardiovascular disease, ischemic heart disease, stroke and respiratory disease. The researchers concluded that drinking more than two cups of tea per day can be part of a healthy diet.

For decades, conventional wisdom has been that consuming saturated fat is a surefire way to sabotage cardiovascular health, clog arteries and advance the path to a heart attack. A new paper published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology looked at the relationship between consuming saturated fat and the development of cardiovascular disease by conducting a review of articles published between 2010 and 2021 on the subject. The researchers found there is no scientific ground to demonize saturated fat as a cause of cardiovascular disease, and saturated fat naturally occurring in nutrient-dense foods can be safely included in the diet.

parkheta/AdobeStock.com

Glycine and NAC May Delay Aging

A new clinical trial by researchers at Baylor College of Medicine, in Houston, found that a combination of Nacetyl cysteine and glycine (GlyNAC) boosted glutathione—often referred to as the body’s master antioxidant—and improved or reversed many signs of aging. Twenty-four older adults and 12 young adults were studied. The older group was randomized to receive either GlyNAC or a placebo for 16 weeks, and the younger adults received GlyNAC for two weeks.

Participants were studied before, after two weeks and after 16 weeks of supplementation to assess glutathione concentrations, oxidative stress, mitochondrial fatty-acid oxidation, molecular regulators of energy metabolism, inflammation, endothelial function, insulin resistance, aging hallmarks, gait speed, muscle strength, walking (via a six-minute test), body composition and blood pressure. Supplementing with GlyNAC in the older adults was found to improve or correct these markers. Researchers concluded that this nutritional supplementation was a safe, well-tolerated and effective method for improving or reversing multiple, age-associated abnormalities to promote health in aging adults.

fizkes/AdobeStock.com

Sea Soundscapes Help Regrow Oyster Reefs

In new research published in the Journal of Applied Ecology, Australian scientists amplified the natural sounds of the sea via underwater speakers, inducing baby oysters to swim toward desirable locations for regrowing oyster reefs. Thousands more larvae swam to those locations than to control areas to settle on bare rocks. Oyster reef restoration in Australia and globally is viewed as a way to re-establish healthy ecosystems. Shellfish filter and clean large volumes of water as they feed, and shell piles provide habitat for fish.

Many marine animals use sound to communicate over long distances, because it can carry more information than sight or smell underwater. Healthy reefs emit crackles and pops from shrimp and fish as they feed, and that makes oyster larvae aware of a healthy habitat for them to settle on a rock and begin growing their shell.

The researchers recorded sounds from the healthy Port Noarlunga Reef and played them underwater near two large reef restoration sites offshore from Adelaide and the Yorke Peninsula. They attracted up to 17,000 more oysters per square meter to these sites and close to four times more large oysters grew in the test areas over the next five months, further accelerating habitat growth.

Mechanical Devices Inefficient at Removing Ocean Plastic

https://ideas.unite.un.org/reboottheocean

A new study led by researchers from the International Marine Litter Research Unit at the UK University of Plymouth suggests that while mechanical devices like Seabin do remove plastics and other items of marine litter, the quantities can be comparatively low and they may trap marine organisms. Scientists have been studying the issue of marine microplastics for more than 20 years.

The Seabin device continuously takes in water via a submersible pump that is then filtered, returning clean water to the area while leaving the litter in a catch bag. Hundreds around the world are said to have captured more that 2.5 million kilograms of litter from calm, sheltered environments like marinas, ports and yacht clubs.

The study found that the equivalent to 58 items a day were collected, mainly comprised of plastic pellets, polystyrene balls and plastic fragments. The Seabin also captured one marine organism for every 3.6 items of litter, or around 13 a day, including sand eels, brown shrimp and crabs. Around 60 percent were found dead.

During the study, five manual trawls were conducted at the same marina using nets from pontoons or vessels which collected an average of 19.3 grams of litter during cleaning periods of up to five minutes. The Seabin only captured the equivalent of 0.0059 grams in the same time. The researchers say that based on their findings, the device was of minimal benefit at this location.

Our Helium Is Running Out

Liquid helium, the world’s coldest element, is needed to operate the magnets in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines. The high-resolution, 3-D images generated by this critical medical tool allow doctors to see details in the body that might not show up on X-rays, so that they can diagnose brain tumors, strokes, spinal cord injuries, liver disease and cancer.

Helium is a nonrenewable element found deep underground, and supplies are becoming harder to find for the Federal Helium Reserve, in Texas. Russia was gearing up to supply nearly a third of the world’s reservoir, but the war in Ukraine has halted trade. Phil Kornbluth, president of Kornbluth Helium Consulting, says that four of five major U.S. helium suppliers are rationing the element, prioritizing the healthcare industry over less essential customers. Donna Craft, a regional construction manager for Premier, Inc., which contracts with helium suppliers for about 4,000 hospitals, says, “Helium is on allocation, for sure.”

Inside an MRI magnet, helium lets the current travel resistance-free. Harvard University physicists Amir Yacoby and Philip Kim shut down about half of their projects. Kim says, “There’s only a finite amount of helium in the Earth’s crust. Once it evaporates off, it’s completely lost into outer space.”

Image from: https://www.natureaustralia.org.aunewsroom/

Farmers Benefit from Harvesting Solar Energy

Researchers calculate that devoting about 1 percent of U.S. farmland to agrivoltaics, the emerging practice of integrating solar installations with working farmland, would satisfy about 20 percent of present electricity demand. Agrivoltaics can reduce emissions, save water and possibly even boost crop yields.

A 2019 study from the University of Utah and Oregon State University found that the best places for solar installations tend to be the areas where we already grow food, because photovoltaic (PV) panels lose their efficiency at higher temperatures. By elevating the panels far enough above the ground, we can essentially harvest the sun twice, according to University of Arizona researcher Greg BarronGafford. Enough sunlight to grow crops gets past the panels, which act as a shield against extreme heat, drought and storms.

Solar panels reduce the amount of sunlight hitting the soil, “which means you have less evaporation of water,” says Barron-Gafford. He and his team were able to triple the yield of chiltepin peppers by growing them under PV panels on test plots versus unshaded control plots. Cherry tomato output doubled, and the soil on the PV plots retained 5 to 15 percent more moisture between waterings. “The plants aren’t just freeloading under the solar, they actually help the panels become more efficient,” he adds.

END THE MAILING MADNESS

Junk mail is wasteful. In our digital age, email and the internet have become the preferred modes of communication. When a shiny, multipage magazine or catalog arrives in the mail, we must view it as an unsustainable practice and take action to curb it.

SQUANDERED RESOURCES

According to Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society, “More than 100 million trees are destroyed each year for junk mail plus 28 billion gallons of water and enough energy to power more than 9 million cars! When we stop junk mail and catalogs, we keep trees in the forests doing what they do best—providing oxygen for us to breathe and absorbing CO2 to keep our planet cool and healthy.”

ADDED LANDFILL BURDEN

Junk mail also adds 1 billion pounds of waste to landfills each year. U.S. Postal Service Senior Director of Environmental Affairs and Corporate Sustainability Jennifer Beiro-Reveille says, “We buy over $392 million worth of products containing recycled material every year and reduce waste by recycling 277,000 tons of material annually,” at more than 4,000 postal paper recycling stations around the country. But the post office cannot control what is being mailed.

WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT

Almost all magazines have an online edition, and companies likely prefer shoppers to visit their websites rather than go to the expense of designing, printing

and mailing bulky catalogs that cannot be updated as inventory and prices change. It is usually a simple matter to contact a company by email, phone or even via a website and request the mailings to be stopped. All it takes is a little time and effort to make a big, cumulative difference.

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

Taking matters a step further, the Ocean Futures Society has partnered with 41Pounds to offer a membership plan (866-417-4141 or 41Pounds.org) to stop junk mail. They will contact 20 to 35 direct mail companies to remove a name from their distribution lists, including almost all credit card applications, coupon mailers and magazine offers, plus specific catalogs.

REGULATORY OPTIONS

The Sierra Club wants to ban junk mail outright, reporting, “An estimated 44 percent of junk mail is thrown away unopened.” Margaret Klein Salamon, founder and director of The Climate Mobilization, likens the idea of banning junk mail to bans on plastic straws. The Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Canada already enforce junk mail restrictions.

Eketerina/AdobeStock.com

BRAIN POWER BOOSTERS

TIPS TO PRESERVE MEMORY AT ANY AGE

by Sheryl Kraft

Although it is completely normal to feel like our memories are failing us as we get older, this is not the time to panic. Regardless of age, it is always possible to learn, store and recall information, and there are numerous practices we can adopt to nourish and optimize our brains. Whether we’re looking for the car keys in all the wrong places or experiencing way too many tip-of-the-tongue moments, it may be high time to adopt the brain-boosting recommendations by these four experts.

Eating for Cognitive Power

“Having a better memory now and in the future means taking care of your brain and

making the right lifestyle choices to slow down the aging process,” says Annie Fenn, M.D., founder of BrainHealthKitchen.com, who believes that what we choose to eat is one the most significant decisions we make each day.

Foods high in antioxidants like vitamins C and E, beta carotene and selenium have been shown to slow age-related memory loss. Think berries, grapes (which contain resveratrol, a memory-enhancing compound), beets, broccoli, almonds, avocados, carrots, eggs, salmon, onions and dark, leafy greens.

Avoid foods high in saturated and trans fats, which can increase “bad” cholesterol and lower “good” cholesterol. Studies find

that high cholesterol diets can increase the risk of memory loss, among other cognitive functions.

Whole grains and legumes like cracked wheat, whole-grain couscous and lentils are complex carbohydrates that boost the brain by providing a steady, sustained supply of glucose, and are high in folate, the memory-boosting B vitamin.

Finally, don’t forget to include culinary herbs like curcumin, rosemary, saffron, oregano and mint. They all help support brain health, especially saffron, which contains a potent constituent called crocin that is associated with slowing cognitive decline in human and animal studies.

Brain-Nourishing Supplements and Stress Reduction

Wendy Warner, M.D., the founder of Medicine in Balance, an integrative healthcare practice in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, recommends Ginkgo biloba (one of the oldest living tree species in the world) and ginseng, which have both been found to help enhance memory with

Tijana/AdobeStock.com

HAVING A BETTER MEMORY NOW AND IN THE FUTURE MEANS TAKING CARE OF YOUR BRAIN AND MAKING THE RIGHT LIFESTYLE CHOICES TO SLOW DOWN THE AGING PROCESS.

~ANNIE FENN, M.D.

their neuroprotective and antioxidant effects. Noting that the brain works best with adequate nourishment, she asserts that these supplements can play a role in increasing blood circulation to the brain, thus improving its function.

Also on her list are Bacopa monnieri for its antioxidant capacity, Rhodiola rosea for its neuroprotective and antioxidant effects and licorice (Glycirrhiza glabra) for its ability to increase circulation in the central nervous system.

Warner recommends regular stress management techniques like yoga, qigong and tai chi as well, noting, “These all help lower inflammation and cortisol (an inflammatory stress hormone) and have been shown to improve memory.”

Medicinal Herbs for Mental Clarity

Heather Houskeeper is a certified herbalist, long-distance hiker and author. When venturing out into the wild, she is able to spot and identify hundreds of medicinal herbs, including her favorite, top five memory boosters, starting with Ginkgo biloba, as well as:

ROSEMARY (Rosmarinus officinalis) supports healthy blood flow to the brain. It can be enjoyed through food, tea or diffused as aromatherapy.

ASHWAGANDHA (Withania somnifera), traditionally ingested as food or tea, can support mental alertness, focus and clarity of mind. Mix ashwagandha powder with warm milk, hot water or broth.

HOLY BASIL (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is rich in antioxidants and supports cerebral circulation. Enjoy this delicious and fragrant herb as tea up to three times per day, use in cooking or take as a tincture.

GOTU KOLA

(Centella

asiatica) is a restorative herb that can support alertness and mental clarity. It is also popularly used as a tea, tincture or extract for up to 14 days at a time.

Slumber Savvy

Insufficient sleep can result in a variety of cognitive problems, including memory loss. Those suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a common sleep disorder condition that affects breathing, should not ignore it.

High-quality sleep is key to reactivating memories, especially recalling the names of people we’ve recently met, according to Northwestern University researchers. Other experts have reported a strong association between sleep and the formation of memories. Strive for uninterrupted and deep sleep, as follows:

n The ideal amount for most adults is between seven and nine hours a night.

n Wind down before bed with a consistent routine like reading, stretching or meditation.

n Keep the bedroom cool— somewhere around 65° F— and dark.

n Shut off all electronics.

n Avoid late-day caffeine, alcohol and spicy, heavy meals too close to bedtime.

Treating OSA is important to improve both sleep and brain health, says Thomas M. Holland, M.D., of the Rush Institute for Healthy Aging, explaining, “Impaired sleep can lead to biochemical processes that can impact memory and cognition.”

Sheryl Kraft writes about health and wellness for Sage by Gaia and a variety of print and online media sources. Visit SherylKraft. com and SageByGaia.com to read more of her work.

Treating Alzheimer’s with a Functional Medicine Approach

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is now the third leading cause of death in the United States, following only cardiovascular disease and cancer according to research by Dr. Dale Bredesen, a pioneer in brain health who is working to reduce the global burden of dementia. There are approximately 5.2 million Americans with AD, however, this estimate ignores many young people destined to develop AD during their lifetimes.

Studies at the UCLA Department of Neurology show effective treatment of AD has been lacking but recently, a novel personal ized approach involving metabolic enhancement was presented, with promising results, using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment to determine progress. Local Functional Medicine & Neurology specialist, Dr. Douglas Brown, in Foley, AL, practices Bredesen’s personalized protocols with much success. “One cannot subscribe to a ‘one size fits all’ approach. Every individual has multiple factors to consider such as genetics, toxicity or environment, diet and lifestyle,” says Brown.

Brown’s individualized approach to dementia and AD uses a variety of evaluations and treatments. He orders in-depth lab work and evaluates numerous factors that affect the health of the brain

including nutrition, sleep habits, exercise, stress management and medications. In some patients, Alzheimer’s can be prevented or reversed through a combination of therapies:

n Bredesen’s ReCODE protocol, deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (DTMS) and brain pathway therapies, which train the brain to form new nerve connections and stimulate the central nervous system.

n ReCODE defines all the possible contributors to Alzheimer’s such as infections, toxins, hormone and nutritional deficiencies, leaky gut and metabolic diseases like diabetes. After identifying causes, Brown develops precision treatments that target every factor affecting cognitive health. Studies show that following the ReCODE protocol can successfully reverse the cognitive decline of AD and restore the brain’s functionality.

n DTMS rebalances brain activity using magnetic impulses that safely pass through the skull to reach areas of irregular nerve activity in the brain. In addition to potentially improving memory and cognition, DTMS is highly effective for treating depression.

One case study Brown described involves a 74-year-old woman with dementia who plateaued after her first round of individualized treatment. All the bases were covered—thyroid, hormones, B12, iodine levels, toxic load and liver enzymes. She changed her regimen to a ketogenic diet, became more active and participated in DTMS and brain pathway therapies. But after re-evaluation, her estrogen was too low. Her ob/gyn was asked to put her on estrogen and she began showing marked improvement.

“When it comes to cognitive decline, everything that is wrong must be treated effectively at the same time,” according to Brown. Conventional medicine would target one protein in the brain in hopes of curing Alzheimer’s but this approach will fail because Alzheimer’s is a complicated, multi-faceted disease and it must be approached as such.”

To learn if you’re a good candidate for Dr. Brown’s Alzheimer’s disease and dementia protocols, call Mind Performance Center or schedule an appointment online.

Location: 240 West Laurel Ave., Foley. Call 251-597-8787. MindPerformanceCenter.com. See ad, page 3.

FITNESS DELIVERED BENEFITS OF AN IN-HOME PERSONAL TRAINER

by Kirby Baldwin fotofrol/Shutterstock.com

It’s a new year—the perfect opportunity to set positive intentions for a fresh start. One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to be healthier, but according to research, only 46 percent of people that set such a goal are successful in keeping it at the six-month mark, largely due to having unrealistic expectations or not keeping track of progress. To detox from the holidays, look and feel better— and stick to a resolution without becoming another statistic—an in-home personal trainer may be the perfect solution.

Benefits of In-Home Personal Training

According to Jenna Scott, of J Scott Wellness, an American Council on Exercisecertified trainer and health coach who has worked as a personal trainer for more than 15 years, “The benefits to in-home training are countless. It takes many of the perceived (or not-so- perceived) obstacles out of the equation. From taking out travel time in our busy day to simply feeling more comfortable in our home, in-home training is a great alternative to the traditional gym.”

Because workouts are individually tailored to each client, they can be more efficient and effective. For those with busy schedules, in-home personal training provides the consistency needed to attain fitness goals with the added benefit of convenience—no commuting to a gym, waiting for equipment or finding child care. It can also be done at any hour of the day, rather than within the confines of a gym’s hours. Some people may be hesitant to go to a gym, and the privacy of working out in the comfort of a living room is a boon for those that feel self-conscious when exercising in a group environment.

The rapport that may develop between a trainer and client can provide the accountability and motivation to meet goals, and the gratification that comes from seeing results quickly can reinforce the behavior. It is much more difficult to get into a workout rut when there is another person present, continually customizing the workout program and providing motivation and inspiration.

Casey Mahoney, a busy mom and volunteer who works out with an in-home personal trainer, says, “The main benefits for me of working with an in-home trainer are accountability and comfort. There is something to be said for training in the comfort of your own home. It can also be a time saver! I know I can always find other things to fill my time and not make working out a priority. It is much harder to cancel on someone coming to your house than it is to cancel your trip to the gym!”

An added bonus to seeing quick physical gains is the mental fitness that comes with it; numerous studies show that exercise causes the brain to release feel-good chemicals (endorphins) that make people feel happier and less stressed. Research also points to exercise as a source of more ener gy and an immune system boost. Because a personal trainer will take an individual’s health history into consideration—whether it’s a surgery, a physical limitation or the recent birth of a child—in-home personal training is beneficial for all levels of fitness, even beginners.

How to Get Started

According to Scott, “Do your research. Ask where they were certified and what type of insurance they carry. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.” Because a personal relationship is foundational to in-home personal train ing, it is important to find someone that makes us feel comfortable and motivates and inspires us to achieve goals and create positive changes.

In-home personal training comes at differ ent price points. For those seeking a more affordable option, invite a couple of friends over to the house for a semi-private or small group training session. This format provides all the benefits of in-home personal train ing at a more accessible cost, with the added

benefit of a more social environment.

Leveling up our physical fitness this new year will take dedication and commitment, and adopting an exercise program with the guidance of a personal trainer in the comfort of home may be the perfect strategy to stick to new, healthy habits for the long haul.

Kirby Baldwin is an editor and writer for the KnoWEwell Regenerative Whole Health hub.

Come see how we can help you build your strength and r educe your risk of f r actu re in just 15-minutes, once per week.

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Bon Appétit!

A directory of local restaurants, eateries and markets

FEATURING OHANA POKE

Blending Japanese and Hawaiian cuisine to create a delicious mix of seafood, vegetables, rice and sauces in a bowl.

is a Hawaiian word for “family” and “poke” (pronounced POH-keh) refers to cubed marinated meat (traditionally sushi, which originated in Japan). While sushi and poke are similar in featuring raw fish, they are different in many ways and poke is a traditional Hawaiian dish.

At Ohana Poke in Fairhope, a poke bowl consists of a base (white rice, brown rice, sushi rice or salad), proteins, mix-ins, sauces and toppings. For example, a popular signature bowl on the Ohana Poke menu is the Hawaiian Bowl containing salmon, sweet onion, cucumber, pineapple, tomato and poke sauce and topped with seaweed salad, mango and crispy onion. For a signature bowl with a little kick, try the Ohana Poke Bowl with spicy tuna, spicy salmon, tuna mixed with jalapeno, cilantro, edamame, scallion, sriracha sauce and poke sauce all topped with masago, seaweed salad, avocado, rice cracker and roast seaweed. All of the signature bowls on the menu are skillfully designed but can be customized in any way.

Patrons may also create a completely customized bowl

from scratch by choosing from a plethora of ingredients. The bowls come in different sizes for different appetites and consist of a base of choice, a wide selection of proteins (octopus, shrimp, chicken, tofu and many others), healthful fruits and vegetables as mix-ins (sweet corn, cucumber, seaweed, pineapple, edamame and more), choice of 10 sauces (umami miso, spicy ponzu, wasabi mayo, eel sauce, ginger scallion, etc.), regular toppings (squid salad, fish eggs, sushi ginger, pickled radish carrot, mango and others) and crunchy toppings (furikake, wasabi peas, crispy onion and similar delights). Clearly, poke bowls are a great way to get fresh, healthy ingredients in a creative and delicious meal. Each bowl at Ohana Poke is also artfully crafted to create a beautiful presentation with each ingredient expertly portioned. Diners may choose to eat in at the restaurant or order online and take it to go. Either way, as the website says, it’s “Amazing Delicious.”

Location: 561 Fairhope Ave., Unit 102, Fairhope. 251-5177760. opfairhope.com. Open 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day. See ad, page 21.

“Ohana”

AGAPÉ JUICES

Nourishing your body, mind and spirit. Fountain Plaza Shopping Center 3782 South McKenzie St., Foley, AL Agape-Juices.com

AHI SEAFOOD MARKET

Fairhope Gourmet Market. Guaranteed fresh and highest quality seafood, beef and pork. 18874 S. Section St., Fairhope, AL 251-517-7533 • AhiSeafoodMarket.com

COASTAL ALABAMA FARMERS & FISHERMENS MARKET

Committed to Baldwin County’s local community & agriculture. 20733 Miflin Rd., Foley, AL CoastalAlabamaMarket.com

FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS

Homegrown in the South since 1975. 280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center Fairhope, AL • 251-928-0644 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

FAIRHOPE JUICE COMPANY

Nourish the body. Fuel the soul. Battles Wharf Market 18327 Scenic Hwy 98, Fairhope, AL FairhopeJuiceCompany.com

LOCALS FAIRHOPE

Quaint, mom-n-pop eatery providing healthy eats in a casual atmosphere. 312 Fairhope Ave., Fairhope, AL LocalsFairhope.com

MCKENZIE FARMS

Family-owned market supplying fresh produce and more to our community. 17558 A Greeno Rd., Fairhope, AL MckenzieFarmMarket.com

NATURE NINE FARMS

Your source for local, ethical-grown wholesome, delicious food. sperkins@natureninefarms.com NatureNineFarms.com

OHANA POKE

Poke combines ingredients of a delicious sushi roll into a quick meal.

561 Fairhope Ave. #102, Fairhope, AL OPFairhope.com

OX KITCHEN

Made with fresh ingredients in-house daily, approachable, not intimidating.

365 S. Greeno Rd., Fairhope, AL TheOxKitchen.com

SAGE LEBANESE CUISINE & CAFÉ

A surprising blend of traditional and new Mediterranean & Lebanese cuisine.

319 Fairhope Ave., Fairhope, AL SageLebaneseCuisine.com

SUNFLOWER

CAFÉ FAIRHOPE

Offering a healthy dining experience in a cozy, casual environment. 320 Eastern Shore Shopping Center Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

THE HAPPY OLIVE

Be happy, eat healthy, live well. Taste and experience culinary delight! 314 De La Mare Ave., Fairhope, AL HappyOlive4.com

TWO SISTERS BAKERY & DELI

Gluten-free, keto-friendly options, featuring boars head meats & cheeses. 19452 Scenic Hwy 98, Fairhope, AL 251-517-0622

WAREHOUSE

BAKERY & DONUTS

A neighborhood eatery serving made-fromscratch, vegan friendly, gluten-free goodness 759 Nichols Ave., Fairhope, AL WarehouseBakeryAndDonuts.com

WILDFLOWERS & FRESH FOOD

Simple and colorful high-vibe cooking classes, events and fresh recipes. 251-656-9112 WildFlowersAndFreshFood.com

For an online list of local healthy food sources, visit NAGulfCoast.com/healthyeats.

inspiration Welcoming the Unknown

by Marlaina Donato

Ushering in a brand-new year can be filled with hope, but it can also feel as daunting as a blank sheet of paper. We might pause at the threshold with pen in hand, recounting past mistakes and failures, hesitant to make our mark. The unforeseen is like a stranger, easy to mistrust. Dreading the unknown can be a self-sabotaging habit that obstructs the view and keeps us wishing instead of living.

Nature’s great gift is her constancy of seasons, but she thrives on change. Despite the human propensity for clutching what is familiar and predictable, we do best by leaving the door ajar for the unexpected. If we are fortunate, we will have 12 more months to have another go at it.

Setting a place at the table for delight shifts our frequency from resistance to receiving our highest good, and swapping anxiety for excitement can be a spiritual practice during our most uncomfortable moments. Instead of making a resolution, what if we made the simple decision to not believe our fears?

With no concept of limitation or worry of scraped knees, we once learned to walk, happily undiscouraged when we stumbled. That first spark of eager curiosity remains deep in our memory, not confined to youth. Embracing possibility this year can be a subtle, mantra-in-motion as we go through our days, a cellular willingness to expect an outcome tailored specifically for us. Here are some prompts for embracing possibility:

n On scraps of paper, write down 12 things you have postponed doing or trying and keep them in a special canister. Pull one out each month and follow through with joyful anticipation.

n Witness the sunrise once a week and designate it as an opportunity to open your heart and mind to the new and glorious.

n Change things up in the kitchen: Buy new dishes and donate the old to a local thrift store. Try a new food every week and explore herbs and spices not usually in the cupboard.

n Notice something in your daily surroundings that might have gone unnoticed before.

Marlaina Donato is an author, painter and composer. Connect at WildflowerLady.com.

Mary Beth Svatek, M.A. Certified Hypnotherapist & Life Coach 251-300-9912 energymodelofchange.com

Cooling the Fire Within HEALTHY

EATING TIPS TO EASE CHRONIC INFLAMMATION

by Tom O’Bryan, DC CCN, DACBN

Putting more thought into what we eat and why may be among the most important factors in determining how long we live. Researchers in Norway recently compared the long-term effects of a typical Western diet to an optimal one, and their findings can be a source for inspiration. The optimal diet had a substantially higher intake of whole grains, legumes, fish, fruits, vegetables and a handful of nuts, while reducing red and processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages and refined grains.

According to their results, a sustained change from a typical Western diet to the better plan can make a big difference on life expectancy. Here are their predicted impacts on longevity for people after starting—and sticking to—an optimal diet:

Start at age 20—women add 8.4 to 12.3 years; men add 9.4 to 14.3 years

Start at age 60—women add 6.2 to 9.3 years; men add 6.8 to 10 years

Start at age 80—women and men add 3.4 years

So, it is never too late to start a positive activity.

This improved diet gets to the underlying causes of most of the reasons Americans die. According to the National Institutes of Health, 14 of the top 15 causes of death in 2019 were chronic inflammatory diseases. This means it is more than likely that the cause has existed for a long time under the surface (chronic), with too much inflammation for too long (inflammatory), affecting the brain, cardiovascular system, blood sugar system or wherever there is a genetic weak link (disease). Rather than

ask what the ailment is, ask, “Where is the long-term, hidden inflammation coming from that is fueling this disease?”

Dr. George Slavich, founding director of the Laboratory for Stress Assessment and Research at the University of California in Los Angeles, says that understanding when inflammation promotes either good or poor health and how and when to intervene to reduce inflammation-related disease risk, “should be a top scientific and public priority.” Identifying and reducing individual triggers of inflammation opens a path to regenerating a healthier, younger individual.

Not all inflammation is bad. Time-limited increases in inflammation are critical for promoting wound healing and recovery, as well as reducing the spread of communicable infections. Humans would not have lived very long without a well-developed internal protection from threatening environmental triggers such as bugs, parasites, viruses, mold, fungus and bacteria. For better health outcomes, we need to address excessive systemic inflammation. There are many likely contributors to the fueling of inflammation, but one of the most common sources is what is on the end of our fork. Begin there.

LIFESTYLE HACK 1: If there is one prime directive for better health, it is to focus on living as much of an anti-inflammatory lifestyle as possible. Become more aware of the daily environmental exposures that ramp up inflammatory genes. Know, for example, what chemicals are used on the soil in which the food is grown or sprayed with before it is harvested. Then, armed with this knowledge, choose a better alternative, like organic and regenerative organic foods. As enough anti-inflammatory messages are accumulated, a reversal in the direction of health is possible.

LIFESTYLE HACK 2: Food is the most common source of gasoline on the fire of inflammation. Dr. Deanna Minich, president of the American College of Nutrition, recommends the Rainbow Diet, which acts like a fire extinguisher to put out the excess inflammatory fire in the body. Selecting multiple colors of fruits and vegetables at every meal tempers the inflammatory cascade. Strive over time to eat 50 different fruits or vegetables per week.

Begin today. Just bringing up to awareness the question, “Is this food inflammatory or anti-inflammatory?” will feed our health habits, and over time, healthier habits equal a healthier life.

KnoWEwell Chief Health Officer Dr. Tom O’Bryan, DC, CCN, DACBN, is an internationally recognized expert on gluten, bestselling author and speaker focused on food sensitivities, environmental toxins and the development of autoimmune diseases. He is a chiropractic doctor, certified clinical nutritionist and the founder of TheDr.com

ZUCCHINI PASTA WITH SALMON AND ARTICHOKE YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

6 zucchinis, medium to large, firm and straight, cut into “noodles”

2 lb fresh, wild salmon fillets, skin removed Sea salt and pepper

2 Tbsp high-heat cooking oil (avocado or grapeseed)

3 Tbsp olive oil

4 Tbsp shallots, minced

4 cloves garlic, minced

8 artichoke hearts (in water), quartered

1 lemon, zested and juiced

4 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped Pinch of cayenne

6 slices crumbled, crispy turkey bacon; crispy bacon; or crispy pancetta

Zucchini can be fashioned into noodles one of two ways. For “fettuccine”, use a potato peeler to produce long, flat noodles or lengthwise ribbons. Peel off several from one side, then turn the zucchini and peel off more. Continue to turn and peel away ribbons, until reaching the seeds at the core of the zucchini, which can be discarded. For “spaghetti”, use a spiralizer, mandolin or knife. The spiralizer is the easiest option. With a mandolin, hook up the julienne attachment for perfectly formed noodles. If using a knife, cut the zucchini into thin slices, stack them up and cut again lengthwise into thin strips. Discard the core.

Salt the zucchini noodles, let sit for a few minutes, then massage and squeeze the water out. Drain any excess liquid.

Season the salmon with salt and pepper. In a large pan, heat the avocado oil over medium to high heat. Add the salmon, top sidedown, and sear until golden and crispy, then turn over to finish cooking. Cover only with a splatter screen, or it will not get crispy.

In a wok or large pan over medium heat, add the olive oil and shallots, and cook until soft. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the zucchini noodles, increase the heat to medium-high and cook for 2 minutes. Add the artichokes and lemon zest, stir to combine and cook for 1 minute. Turn off the heat and add the parsley, lemon juice and cayenne; stir to combine. Add the bacon and adjust seasonings to taste.

Distribute evenly on 4 plates or low bowls. Place the salmon on top and serve with extra lemon.

All recipes courtesy of Dr. Tom O’Bryan.

ARTICHOKE AND SPINACH GREEK OMELET

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

10 eggs

1 cup chopped artichoke hearts, packed in water

1 large tomato

4 oz fresh baby spinach, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

⅔ cup green olives, chopped

½ tsp dried thyme

½ tsp dried oregano

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 Tbsp coconut oil

In a large bowl, whisk together all the ingredients except the oil. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Pour the mixture into the skillet. After 1 to 2 minutes, when the omelet has begun to brown, fold it in half and continue to cook for another 1 to 2 minutes on each side until the center is cooked through. Serve immediately.

CURRY CHICKEN SALAD

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

4 organic, boneless, chicken breasts

1 to 2 bay leaves

½ cup chopped celery

½ cup chopped walnuts

⅔ cup avocado mayonnaise

2 tsp gluten-free Dijon mustard

1 tsp curry powder

Sea salt and black pepper

Wash and pat dry the chicken. Add water to a steamer (per manufacturer’s instructions) and add bay leaves. Place the chicken in the steamer basket and steam for 45 to 50 minutes. Do not overcook. Allow to cool, then shred or chop.

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, celery, walnuts, mayonnaise, mustard, and curry. Blend well with a fork, taste and season with salt and pepper.

Add the salad greens to plates and mound with the chicken salad. Garnish with parsley, avocado and pomegranate arils (seeds). If desired, drizzle salad greens with juice of a lemon and extra-virgin olive oil.

Lesya Dolyuk/Shutterstockcom

Liudmyla Chuhunova/Shutterstockcom

More than Skin Deep

HEALING THE HEARTBREAK OF PSORIASIS

by Lorraine Maita, MD

Psoriasis affects approximately 3 percent of the U.S. population. According to Dr. Mark Hyman, founder of the Institute of Functional Medicine, the condition involves terrible suffering from scaly, itchy, inflamed and peeling skin; aching joints; burning genitals; broken nails; and the resulting depression that inevitably comes from such conditions—all of which explains why it is often referred to as “the heartbreak of psoriasis.”

The Cleveland Clinic describes psoriasis as an autoimmune condition of the skin. The immune system of people with psoriasis overreacts, causing inflammation and an overly rapid growth of new skin cells, which in turn causes a buildup on the surface that creates the appearance of scaling, but the effects are much more significant than cosmetic.

Psoriasis is associated with psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, autoimmune thyroiditis, lymphoma and cardiovascular disease. The National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) describes a link between psoriasis and cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome known as the “march of psoriasis”. Widespread inflammation may cause insulin resistance that triggers cells lining the blood vessels to malfunction, potentially leading to atherosclerosis and heart attack or stroke. The ailment also increases the risk of diabetes, obesity and high cholesterol.

Traditionally, psoriasis is treated with steroids and immunosuppressive drugs that can be harsh on the body and quite expensive while failing to address its root cause. Alternatively, the functional medicine approach is to treat the disease’s underlying causes: inflammation and triggers.

“I have psoriasis,” says Dr. Brad Shook, a chiropractic physician and member of The Institute of Functional Medicine. “I worked hard, and I’ve had my psoriasis and my autoimmunity under control and in remission. Through functional medicine, we can identify these drivers and help you to unwind this process, heal your body and then through that process of healing, you learn what the triggers were.”

Psoriasis Triggers

Functional medicine practitioners use the acronym STAIN to categorize five triggers that activate inflammation and psoriasis: stress, trauma or toxins, antigens or adverse food reactions, inflammation or infections and nutrition. Removing these triggers allows for healing.

Stress

Psoriatic patients report worsening of symptoms with stress. Modulating the reaction to stress and adding relaxation techniques can calm the inflammatory response. Practicing relaxing activities such as deep belly breathing, yoga, tai chi, prayer, meditation, visualization, Heartmath, massage, acupuncture or biofeedback can relieve stress. Exercise can also release endorphins that reduce pain perception.

Trauma or Toxins

The NPF states that physical trauma can induce the development of psoriatic plaques. Toxins such as smoking and alcohol have been shown to increase the risk and severity of the disease. Obesity may also play a role in worsening symptoms because toxins are stored in fat, which emits inflammatory cytokines. It’s recommended to maintain ideal weight, abstain from smoking and alcohol consumption, and avoid trauma. Detoxifying and removing heavy metals can decrease the inflammatory response, as well.

Antigens or Adverse Food Reactions

Studies show that a Western diet rich in sugar and fat leads to an imbalance in gut bacteria known as dysbiosis. These harmful bacteria may contribute to psoriasis. Allergens or reactions to food can cause increased intestinal permeability, or leaky gut. The most common triggers tend to be wheat and dairy.

The Chopra Center recommends the 4 R Gut Healing program. Removing foods patients are sensitive to is key to calming down the immune system, as well as avoiding sugar, wheat, dairy and processed foods. To improve the gut, replace digestive enzymes, replenish healthy bacteria with a probiotic and repair the gut lining with butyrate or L glutamine.

Inflammation or Infections

To diminish inflammation, modify the diet to include more antiinflammatory omega-3 fats found in fish, avocado, nuts, seeds and olives, and fewer inflammatory omega-6 fats found in wheat and dairy. Look for and eradicate hidden infections. Decrease inflam-

mation with a high-quality fish oil, curcumin, probiotics and a whole foods diet free of food sensitivities.

Nutrition

Studies show that having adequate amounts of vitamins A and D, fish oil, probiotics and zinc are important for maintaining both a healthy gut and a healthy immune response. Supplementation can be helpful in maintaining appropriate levels of these vital nutrients. Some patients using topical vitamin D products found they had effects similar to topical corticosteroids.

“When I started working at the Ultrawellness Center, I learned about how to address the root causes of a problem, not just the symptoms, and have found a new way of approaching psoriasis,” says Adonica Nichols, a psoriasis patient and a licensed practical nurse at the center, in Lenox, Massachusetts. “Living with psoriasis is still an everyday struggle for me, but I have implemented many of these changes in my diet and lifestyle over the past several months, and I am feeling better than I ever have.”

Psoriasis is a multifaceted, complex illness that may require a deeper look at the triggers. A functional medicine physician can offer a systematic approach to uncover and remove these triggers, helping patients heal from the heartbreak of psoriasis.

Board-certified in integrative, anti-aging and internal medicine, Lorraine Maita, MD is an award-winning functional medicine specialist and author in Short Hills, NJ. For more information, visit HowToLiveYounger.com.

Multifaceted Success with Functional Medicine

Tara McLellan is a Certified Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner and the founder of Integrative Healthcare of Lower Alabama. She believes that the functional medicine model can bring true wellness, which involves not only the body, but also the mind and soul.

“Not only has my functional medicine approach helped patients with psoriasis, but a slew of other symptoms and diseases…anxiety and depression, stomach issues, hormone and thyroid imbalances, autoimmune dysfunction and many others. I am awed by the improvements in my patients’ health once we can identify triggers or underlying inflammation and we can address these with natural interventions,” says McLellan Functional medicine offers testing beyond traditional bloodwork so causes to health issues can often be found even after traditional lab work up does not find any.

McLellan has many success stories. One of her patients suffered chronic constipation since childhood, was evaluated by a gastroenterologist and had several colonoscopies and other tests. Findings were normal, so the patient was prescribed medication but was still very irregular and bloated. McLellan conducted bloodwork that revealed nutritional insufficiencies and malfunction of the thyroid. After elimi-

nating the foods which were likely causing inflammation and adding supplements to support the thyroid, the patient was no longer constipated and her energy level significantly improved.

Another patient suffered with years of psoriasis and then developed joint pain due to psoriatic arthritis. His doctor prescribed monthly injections to suppress his immune system and manage the symptoms, which was extremely expensive. The patient decided to meet with McLellan to see what functional medicine might offer and to avoid simply putting a band-aid on his symptoms. McLellan recommended eliminating dairy and other inflammatory foods to address inflammation along with other lifestyle changes and supplements and his rash was nearly gone after just one month.

Raised in Mobile, Alabama, McLellan has been a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner for over 10 years and is also an instructor for the Masters of Science in Nursing program at the University of South Alabama. She practiced in two of the largest community health centers on the Gulf Coast prior to starting Integrative Healthcare of Lower Alabama.

Location: Integrative Healthcare of Lower AL, 620 N. McKenzie St., Ste. 200. Alabama IntegrativeHealth.com. 251-943-9355, Tara. Mclellan@AlabamaIntegrativeHealth.com. See ad, page 27.

Tara McLellan

Milton Mills on Optimizing Health with a Plant-Based Diet

by Julie Marshall

Milton Mills, M.D., practices internal medicine and critical care in underserved communities in Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia. He advocates switching to a whole-food, plant-based diet and eliminating animalderived dairy. As medical director of the nonprofit Center for a Humane Economy, he is currently leading a national campaign backed by 31 members of Congress to promote the free dissemination of plant-based alternatives to dairy (especially soy milk) in U.S. public schools. An impactful public speaker and preventative healthcare advocate, Mills has co-authored articles dealing with racial bias in federal nutrition policy. He graduated from the Stanford University School of Medicine and completed residency training at the University of California San Francisco, in Fresno, and Georgetown University Hospital, in Washington, D.C.

What prompted you to advise patients to go meatand dairy-free?

I became a vegan in my late teens and that’s what led me to a career in medicine. Some friends in my [Seventh-day Adventist] church were making the switch, and I joined them. What happened was undeniable. I was sleeping better, I had high energy and I felt mentally clear. I wanted to study medicine to learn more about what else a vegan diet could improve.

because of saturated fats. There is a reason that patients recovering from heart events are medically advised to eat plants and eliminate meat, fish and poultry. One National Institutes of Health study shows that a vegan diet can even reverse heart disease.

Avoiding dairy addresses breast and prostate cancers, because dairy contains growth-stimulating proteins and hormones which signal growth, but not in a good way. When we are infants, we drink breast milk to stimulate growth, but as adults, dairy signals the growth of tumors, lipomas or cysts. And what is alarming to me is that Black men are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer than white men.

Type 2 diabetes likewise can also be avoided or reversed. I’ve had several patients who have been able to stop needing their medications. From my experience, a vegan diet also addresses autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis and dementia. Animal protein carries hormones and saturated fats, which is arguably why we are seeing unnatural early puberty in our kids.

for energy. Salads are great, but humans are not rabbits, and we need a variety of good protein sources, such as beans, grains, root vegetables and legumes. Being vegan is like sex, if you aren’t enjoying it, you aren’t doing it correctly.

How is a vegan lifestyle impacted by race, faith and animal welfare?

We know that more than three-quarters of Black people suffer medically from dairy, while our national school lunch program offers zero alternatives to dairy. That’ s racial inequity. Growing up as a Black man in society and being constantly dismissed prepared me to not be afraid to be outspoken as an advocate for a plant-based diet. I have learned that as long as I form my opinions on science, ethics and morals, I can defend them without fear or shame.

A plant-based diet can address all of the major health issues. Cardiac disease is clearly shown to be directly related to eating animals

I thought that I would never be able to change, because my mom made the greatest pork chops. But as soon as I realized that the drive to eat meat is all about habit and is emotion-based, I asked God for help, and he answered. I advise my patients to find help for themselves on how to break their habit, too, rather than toy with it. If you are an alcoholic, do you allow yourself to only drink on some days? It’s also important to realize that we need calories

On faith, if you read the Bible, it literally says humans are built to eat plants, which reaffirms that being vegan is spiritually healthy, too. And when it comes to animals, there is nothing more destructive and harmful to animals and humanity than factory farming. But most people don’t see it because we hide evils behind closed doors. When a creature feels pain and suffering because of humans, I think that comes back to us in different ways, and we all pay the price. But we can stop this type of evil and get ourselves incredibly healthy, too, by choosing to eat plants.

Julie Marshall is a frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings magazine and works for the nonprofit Animal Wellness Action, based in Washington, D.C.

What kinds of health issues can a vegan diet address?

What are the common difficulties of switching to a meatless diet?

Health in a Smile

A HOLISTIC SOLUTION TO IMPAIRED MOUTH SYNDROME IN CHILDREN

by Brooke Goode

One of the first things we notice when we meet someone is their smile, so it is easy to understand why children with crowded teeth might be self-conscious when they encounter new people. But the condition is not just a cosmetic concern. “Teeth crowding are surface markers of structural chaos below,” says Felix Liao, DDS, author of Your Child’s Best Face: How to Nurture Top Health & Natural Glow. Dental crowding results from a deficiency in jaw growth, which can contribute to a partially stunted face, narrower airway, poor sleep and consequent learning and behavior problems. According to a recent medical research review, its prevalence among children and adolescents is up to 84 percent. Fortunately, parents can take steps to nurture healthy dental/ facial development in their children so that there is enough room for all 32 teeth to line up straight and for the tongue to operate between the two jaws without occupying the airway. Crowded teeth are the tip of an iceberg called Impaired Mouth Syndrome (IMS), a term coined by Liao in 2017 for a wide-ranging set of medical, dental and mood problems in children, from sleep and growth disturbance to respiratory infections and poor focus. According to a 2013 study by the Stanford Sleep Center, “Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea in non-obese children is a disorder of oral facial growth.”

IMS is an all-too-common condition that often goes undiagnosed, untreated or incorrectly treated. The result is a child that falls short of their full genetic potential and an adult that suffers recurring pain and fatigue. An underdeveloped maxilla—the upper jaw

that also forms part of the nose and eye socket—can lead to a litany of symptoms, including teeth grinding, a weak chin and jaw pain, and may also impact the appearance of the face, causing imbalanced features. By contrast, a well-developed facial structure will support better breathing, sleep and postural alignment, and benefit from high cheekbones and full lips.

“Rarely does managing symptoms result in a healthy child,” says Ben Miraglia, DDS, a board member of the American Academy of Physiological Medicine & Dentistry. IMS symptoms improve when the jaws are activated to grow to their full potential. This is now possible with a partnership between parents and a new breed of dentists known as Airway-centered Mouth Doctors (AMD) that receive specialized training on the syndrome and its treatment.

These specialists work in the realm of whole health, looking at the interconnectedness of the body rather than individual body parts in isolation. They collaborate with other doctors and therapists, including myofunctional therapists that devise exercises for the mouth muscles and encourage nasal breathing. AMDs also work with dietitians to devise a bone-building diet free of the toxins, pollutants and chemicals found in processed foods that can impair normal facial development.

AMDs approach the condition without drugs or surgery, often without having to use braces which can result in a deflated mid-face. By designing retainer-like oral appliances to be placed over the teeth, they spur the growth and alignment of the jaws to help widen the airway and support sleep.

Mouth structure and jaw alignment are foundational to whole-body health in children, and Liao’s vision for achieving thriving health in kids includes these recommended steps:

n Early recognition by parents of IMS red flags in their child, including chapped lips, a weak chin, crooked teeth, dental cavities, disrupted sleep, slumped posture, fatigue, lethargy, hyperactivity and learning or behavior problems

n Diagnosis of an impaired mouth by a trained AMD

n Complying with AMD guidance, including the use of a professional oral expander appliance

n Eating a non-inflammatory, bonebuilding diet

n Following whole health team protocols to align the head, jaws and spine, and integrate mind, body and mouth

Growing the jaws is the groundbreaking solution to crowded teeth in children that parents have been hoping for. A plant will blossom more fully in sunshine than in shadow. The same can be said when it comes to a child’s smile and overall health.

Brooke Goode is the National Editor for KnoWEwell, the Regenerative Whole Health hub.

gulf coast green living Community Garden Truly Organic Growing

In Fairhope, Alabama, there is a 20-plot community garden behind Homestead Village. In early 2022, Julie Groth, avid organic grower, was frustrated with the expense and lack of organic choices at the grocery store. She decided to take advantage of the community garden to grow her own food at lower expense and without pesticides.

“In the community garden, a few of us wanted to go truly organic, so we converted six of the existing raised beds to organic with no synthetic chemicals,” says Groth. “There’s a relatively new movement called biological or biodynamic growing, where the focus is on the biology in the soil or the microbes. I’ve been a long-time organic grower and was interested in trying this next level organic, and the community garden gave us the green light to try it.”

Groth decided to research regenerative gardening, also known as biologic growing or no till gardening. It was there that she came across Dr. Elaine Ingham’s work on the soil food web, which describes how the microbes and critters in the soil create channels near the roots of the plants that ultimately send minerals, oxygen and more to feed the plants.

Taking on three of the beds herself, Groth first had the soil tested. She knew she needed to start over with healthy soil and, after learning how to create it using local topsoil, earthworm castings, kelp meal, alfalfa meal and other things, she set up her beds with the best quality soil and local municipal compost.

The spring/summer crops didn’t grow as well as hoped, not surprisingly with new soil, as they had symptoms of nitrogen deficiency. As a remedy, she planted cover crops such as field peas to raise the nitrogen level naturally. The fall harvest showed her efforts as it yielded large dark green, productive and longer lasting plants. “With truly organic regenerative gardening we get cleaner, healthier, nutrient dense plants that produce delicious food,” says Groth.

“There are many benefits to being a gardener,” Groth says. “You are outside communing with nature, watching butterflies, living the fruits of your labor and witnessing miracles. If I have a question during the growing process, I ask myself, ‘What would nature do?’ And I always get an answer!”

Groth has managed to grow cabbage, kale, collards, broccoli, eggplant, cucumbers squash and more using the techniques she learned. She believes the key to her success was starting with totally clean soil and focusing on healthy microbes. “Nature will do the rest,” she says.

For more information on regenerative growing, contact Julie Groth, GardenOrganic1010@gmail.com. Location: Homestead Village Retirement Community, 924 Plantation Blvd., Fairhope, AL.

Hidden Dangers in Pet Food

THE SCARY TRUTH ABOUT TOXIC INGREDIENTS

by Karen Becker

Among the many reasons to switch from ultra-processed diets to fresh food for our furry family members, unwanted toxins are high on the list. Because pet food manufacturers are not required to conduct quality control testing, consumers never know exactly what toxins their dogs and cats are inadvertently ingesting. According to PetFoodIndustry.com, “Some level of contamination is unavoidable.” Here is a look at the most common toxins found in many popular pet foods.

ARSENIC is used in herbicides, insecticides, wood preservatives and insulation,

as well as in chicken feed in factory farms. According to Greg Aldrich, Ph.D., associate professor and pet food program coordinator at Kansas State University, “The measured presence of arsenic in pet foods does not equate to toxicity for this naturally occurring earth element.” While this may be true, bioaccumulation can do significant damage over time if sublethal doses are consistently consumed. The gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys, lungs, blood vessels and skin are most vulnerable to arsenic damage, which interferes with hormones and causes cancer and death. To help pets with elevated arsenic levels, try

iodine- and selenium-rich foods, including sea vegetables and Brazil nuts; sulfurous foods like garlic; alpha lipoid acid; and N-acetylcysteine.

MERCURY is released into the air and waterways primarily through burning coal, and seafood is the most common route of exposure. It is best not to feed pets an exclusive diet of fish protein. On the other hand, seafood contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential to a pet’s wellbeing. Consider feeding them low-mercury options like wild-caught salmon, sardines packed in water, mussels or rainbow trout in rotation with other proteins, or

Monika Wisniewska/Shutterstock.com

supplementing their diet with krill oil or an omega-3 fatty acid that is third-party validated as contaminant-free and sustainably sourced. Mercury detoxification can be achieved by using chlorella and cilantro.

POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYL (PCB) and POLYBROMINATED DIPHENYL ETHER (PBDE) are used as fire retardants and can bioaccumulate at high levels in large, predatory fish at the top of the food chain like tuna, tilefish, king mackerel, shark and swordfish. Research suggests that cats are especially sensitive to PBDEs and PCBs found at high levels in both canned and dry pet foods. Although PCBs were banned in the U.S. in 1979, they are still used elsewhere in the world and continue to pollute the oceans. These fat-soluble toxins can be cleared through the bowels, so add fibrous veggies and chlorophyll-containing foods or supplements to the pet bowl.

BISPHENOL A (BPA) is used in plastics and coatings inside pet food cans. It imitates the body’s hormones, especially estrogen, in ways that are damaging to the health of both humans and animals.

A 2017 study conducted by researchers at the University of Missouri concluded that even a short-term (two-week) feeding of canned dog food resulted in a three-fold increase of BPA in dogs. Avoid canned pet foods and #7 plastic food and water bowls and storage bins. Provide ongoing BPA detoxification support by offering foods rich in Lactobacillus acidophilus (kefir and yogurt) and glutathione-rich foods, including culinary and medicinal mushrooms.

DIOXINS, a byproduct of industrial processes, can disrupt the signaling of both male and female sex hormones in the body. They’re found in much of the U.S. food supply, including factory-produced meat, fish, milk, eggs and butter. Offer pets organic food whenever possible. Because dioxins are fat-soluble, they are stored in adipose tissues. Try the Ayurvedic practice of lipophilic-mediated detoxification, which uses healthy fats, including ghee, coconut and MCT oil, to pull out fatstored toxins.

AFLATOXIN contamination has been the cause of several pet food recalls and major

disease outbreaks for more than 20 years. Known to cause acute toxic illness and cancer, they are naturally occurring mycotoxins produced by fungi in agricultural crops. Corn, peanuts and cottonseed have the highest rate of aflatoxin contamination. Aflatoxicosis is more common in dogs than cats because commercial dog food more often contains corn. Many animal studies demonstrate the efficacy of using ginger, thyme, broccoli, turmeric and carrots for aflatoxin detoxification.

The only way to know exactly what a pet is eating is to buy the ingredients and prepare nutritionally complete meals at home. When choosing a commercial pet food, make sure that it contains human-grade ingredients and that manufacturers employ quality control steps in their operations to test for contaminants.

Veterinarian Karen Becker, DVM, has spent her career empowering animal guardians in making knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and well-being of their animals. For more information, visit DrKarenBecker.com.

A New Year. A New You.

Many people ring in the New Year and utter the words, “My New Year’s resolution is (fill in the blank).” Research, however, shows that 80% of these resolutions fall by the wayside within the first month. Unity on the Eastern Shore has a January theme all about Intentional Living and welcomes people wherever they are on their path to explore what Unity offers.

“At Unity on the Eastern Shore and in the New Thought movement we set intentions and use affirmations to create a better or different life,” says Reverend Linda Fisher, M.Msc., minister at Unity on the Eastern Shore in Fairhope. The process involves focusing on what is wanted in life, and what is not wanted, along with looking for the positive things and practicing gratitude for them. “We come to this life as whole and perfect beings, as clean slates. Sure, our DNA from our heritage is embedded within us and we imprint upon our children the cultural norms of our times and sometimes drag along all the past hurt and confusion from our ancestry. As a spiritual teacher I am not here to label anything as good or bad, right or wrong. Life is up to us and we can make of it what we desire. Intentional Living as the qualities of God (compassion, love, kindness, generous, accepting, peace and health) is our aim.”

Fisher points out that one’s mindset going into any project, relationship or opportunity defines the outcome. Adding the spiritual practice of daily intention setting can transform every aspect of life as long as one is willing to do the work to live them. According to The Technology of Intention author, Kim Stanwood Terranova, “Intentions give us the pathway to consciously create our lives.” The power lies within us ready to act and take aim at what we desire to see and be. Terranova goes on to state that, “Intentions are energetically lasered statements that inform the Universe of your desire and the direction in which you wish it to be

fulfilled. Intentions are based on qualities of experiences and are always stated in the positive, present tense.”

At Unity on the Eastern Shore there is a gathering space, classes, events and support to transform life from good to great as people come together to support one another in living an intentional life.

Whether you have a strong spiritual foundation, are just at the beginning of your spiritual journey or do not believe in God at all, Unity offers spiritual insights and guidance for all people. While having its origins rooted in Christianity, the Unity teachings bring together ancient wisdom from many faith traditions. You will not find dogma in Unity and we honor all spiritual paths.

~Unity Worldwide

Location: Unity on the Eastern Shore, 22979 US-98, Fairhope, Alabama. 251-304-4715. UnityEasternShore@gmail.com. Sunday celebration service at 10:30 in person or streaming on Facebook. See ad, page 28.

View our full calendar online at NAGulfCoast.com/calendar !

SUNDAYS

Discounts on Supplements – Every Sunday 15% off supplements at Fairhope Health Foods (251-928-0644) and Virginia’s Health Foods (251479-3952). 280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope, AL and 3055-A Dauphin St, Mobile, AL. VA-FairhopeHealthFoods.com.

Open Table United Church of Christ – Sunday School 9:30-10:20am. Worship 10:30-11:30am, rear chapel of All Saints Episcopal at 151 S. Ann St, Mobile, AL. Wednesdays 6-7:30pm online book study: Sleeper, Awake on Facebook, Facebook.com/ WhereTrueLoveIs or by Zoom. Office@Open TableUCC.org. OpenTableUCC.org.

Spiritual Awakening Center Sunday Community Service – 10:30am. In person and streaming LIVE at FaceBook.com/Sac360.org. Join Rev. Jack Fowler and a loving, inclusive spiritual community for an inspired morning of music, message and encouragement that you are meant to thrive in all areas of life. Letting go of old beliefs, we create a place within for something new to be born. This is humanity awakening to its spiritual magnificence. You are part of this transformation. Call 251-289-1038 for service location. Spiritual Awakening Center 360, P.O. Box 848, Daphne. Sac360.org@gmail.com. Sac360.org.

Unity on the Eastern Shore Sunday Celebration Service – 10:30am. In person, streaming on Facebook.com/UnityEasternShore or via Zoom. Rev. Linda Fisher and Bobbi Jo Machholz along with guest speakers present a metaphysical message each week. Join our vibrant, progressive spiritual community for a gathering of inspired talks, life-affirming music and the recognition of the presence of God in all living things. We honor all religions, spiritual paths and lifestyles. Unity on the Eastern Shore, 22979 US98, Fairhope, AL. UnityEasternShore@gmail.com. Check our calendar for talk titles and guest speakers: UnityEasternShore.wixsite.com/unity.

Youth/Children’s Spiritual Program – 10:30am. Unity’s co-founder Myrtle Fillmore exclaimed that children are not our future, they’re our present. Kids ages 4 and up are invited, while parents are in service, to learn about the life changing principles of Unity, which promotes kindness, love of one another, confidence and self-esteem through the understanding that they and every person are children of God. Unity on the Eastern Shore, 22979 US-98, Fairhope, AL. UnityEasternShore@gmail.com. UnityEasternShore.wixsite.com/unity.

Fairhope Unitarian Sunday Service – 11amnoon. Held inside and streamed on Zoom. Different guest speakers each week—either a member of our congregation or someone from the surrounding community. Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship, 1150 Fairhope Ave, Fairhope, AL. FairhopeUnitarian Fellowship@gmail.com. FairhopeUU.org.

Mobile Bay Makers Market – 11am-3pm, 2nd and 4th Sundays. Open air, sustainably driven market showcasing 25+ local artisans and growers. Music. Food trucks. Year-round, family and dog friendly. Free. South Park of Fairhope Pier, Fairhope, AL. MBMakersMarket@gmail.com.

Conversations on ‘A Course in Miracles’ – 12pm, 2nd and 4th Sundays. Join Rev. Jack Fowler for a heart- and mind-opening discussion of these life altering concepts which teach us to see the world through the eyes of love instead of fear. Learn how to use the immense power of forgiveness to experience the permanent peace of God. Donations accepted. Call 251-289-1038 for meeting location. Spiritual Awakening Center 360, P.O. Box 848, Daphne. Sac360.org@gmail.com. Sac360.org.

Ecstatic Dance – 6:30-8pm, 1st and 3rd Sundays. Explore the wisdom of your body and connect with your intuition through free-form dance. This is a safe space for releasing stagnant energy and emotions to find self-expression and freedom within. No experience required, only openness and curiosity. $25. The Yoga Hive Studio, 1901 Main Street, Daphne, AL. Facebook.com/EcstaticDanceFairhope. Contact Rebecca Washburn at Dance@RebeccaWashburn.com or 251-929-4634.

TUESDAYS

Open Door with the Minister – Noon-3pm, every Tuesday. Learn about intentions and how to apply them in your life. Come pray with us, meditate in our sanctuary and converse with the minister. 22979 US-98, Fairhope, AL. UnityEasternShore@gmail. com. UnityEasternShore.wixsite.com/unity.

THURSDAYS

Gulf Coast Creation Care – Every 1st Thursday of the month at 4pm by Zoom. An alliance of faith communities working to focus the Gulf Coast community’s moral attention on the climate crisis. Info@GulfCoastCreationCare.org. GulfCoast CreationCare.org.

SATURDAYS

Tai Chi – 2nd, 3rd & 4th Saturdays, 8-10am. Join Jim Harkins for an interactive hour of Mind, Body and Spirit rejuvenation. 22979 US HWY 98, Fairhope. Hosted by Unity on the Eastern Shore.

Tai Chi & Restorative Yoga Morning Workshop – First Saturday (Jan 7) from 9am-noon. Join Jim Harkins & Bobbi Jo Machholz for a 3-hour morning of Mind, Body and Spirit rejuvenation. Just the way to start your New Year. $25 donation to UES is suggested but not mandatory.

Prism United – 2-4pm. Find community. Be yourself. Serving LGBTQ youth in Mobile and Fairhope through facilitated, activity-based support groups for pre-teens, teens and families. Info@ PrismUnited.org. 251-219-8441. PrismUnited.org.

mark your calendar

Friday, January 27

Unity on the Eastern Shore Pizza and Game Night – Join us for pizza and laughs. A good time for the whole family. Non-denominational fun with open-minded thinkers. Bring your own non-alcoholic beverage. 22979 US-98, Fairhope. Text Bobbi Jo @ 720-339-4411 RSVP (required for a head count.) Open to the Eastern Shore community See ad, page 28.

mark your calendar

March 13-15

Above and Beyond Yoga India Retreat – Twoweek yoga retreat with Shoshana Treichel and Nrithya Jagannathan (director of KYM Institute of Yoga Studies). Spend time in the mountains, at the beach and at the world-renowned Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram. Additional details and itinerary coming soon. For more information, contact Jake Treichel at Jake@ABHotYoga.com or 251-639-9030. See ad, page 6.

classifieds

$1 per word, per month. Email content to MichelleS@NAGulfCoast.com. Deadline is the 10th of the month.

CLASSES/TRAINING

CLASSES AND CONSULTATIONS. Learn how to grow your own food organically. True organic (without any chemical inputs). I can help you from start to finish. Contact Julie Groth at GardenOrganic1010@gmail.com.

HELP WANTED

THERMOGRAPHY ADVANTAGE IS LOOKING TO HIRE two part-time holisticminded individuals from the Mobile area. No experience needed. We will fully train for lymphatic therapy. Will work 1-3 days weekly. Please call Carolyn for more information at 251-644-4692.

THE SUNFLOWER CAFES ARE LOOKING TO HIRE full- and part-time cooks in Mobile and Fairhope. The Cafes are open only for lunch Monday-Saturday. Apply in store or call Krissy Little at 251-479-3952.

SERVICES

ATTENTION ARE YOU READY FOR A NEW YEAR LIFESTYLE? —Struggling to prioritize healthier choices? Get focused, get active, make a plan. Michelle Smith, Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach will take you by the hand and coax change by designing customized BEST PRACTICES for your life. Find out how. 251-635-6250 or TryMyCoach@gmail.com.

community directory

Connecting you to local resources for natural and green living. To find out how you can be included in the directory, email MichelleS@NAGulfCoast.com or call 251-990-9552.

BEAUTY

KAREN WATSON

TruAura Skincare Specialist/Makeup Artist Daphne, AL • 256-508-0389

TruAuraBeauty.com/trubeauty4u

Skincare, anti-aging, cosmetics and body care that are pure, clean, safe and effective with zero harmful ingredients. Prebiotic/probioticbased and microbiomefriendly. See ad, page 15.

TMAC’S HAIR STUDIO

Old Government, Mobile: 251-607-6666 2101 Hwy. 98, Daphne: 251-725-4334

TMACsHairStudio.com

A relaxing salon environment that is free of harmful chemicals, impurities and fragrance. Offering customized hair services and regenerative treatments with 100% vegan organic products and essential oils. Ask about following the lunar calendar effective hair treatments. See ad, page 15.

BREAST SCREENING

THERMOGRAPHY ADVANTAGE

Carolyn Olson, Certified Thermographer Mobile & Foley (other locations by request) 251-623-2225

ThermographyAdvantage.com

FDA registered thermography offers breast/full-body screenings that are noninvasive and radiation-free, without compression or bodily contact. Valuable for detecting early-stage breast disease and more. Also offering ElectroLymphatic Therapy. See ad, page 16.

CBD HEALTH & WELLNESS

FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS

280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center 251-928-0644

Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Comprehensive health food store offering a range of CBD products: caps, soft gels, gummies, sprays, tinctures, topicals, mixed with ghee, teas, waters, hot cocoa, infused honey, pedicure powders. See ad, page 25.

SIMPLY CBD

Aaron VanHauter, Owner 2005 Hwy 98, Daphne, AL 251-586-8890 • Simply-CBD.net

At Simply CBD our goal is to provide customers with the highest quality hemp-derived CBD products and help them experience healing benefits.

Aaron VanHauter has earned Google status as the highestranked CBD store in Alabama by providing customers with an experience. Simply CBD is a spa-like environment, relaxing, conversational and VanHauter spends ample time with customers providing samples and educating on the variety of solutions. “We want you to be comfortable with your purchase and be knowledgeable about how CBD can help change your life,” he says. See ad, back cover.

VIRGINIA’S HEALTH FOODS

3055 A Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 251-479-3952 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Comprehensive health food store offering a range of CBD products: caps, soft gels, gummies, sprays, tinctures, topicals, mixed with ghee, teas, waters, hot cocoa, infused honey, pedicure powders. See ad, page 25.

COMMUNITY FELLOWSHIP

FAIRHOPE UNITARIAN FELLOWSHIP

1150 Fairhope Ave., Fairhope, AL 251-929-3207 • FairhopeUU.org FairhopeUnitarianFellowship@gmail.com

Welcoming people of any age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status or cultural background. We seek truth and knowledge, care for the Earth and show kindness to others while creating an atmosphere of love.

OPEN TABLE UCC

151 S. Ann St., Mobile, AL 36604

Pastor@OpenTableUCC.org 251-333-0435 • OpenTableUCC.org

We are believers, seekers, and skeptics. We are Open Table. Worship Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Providing progressive biblical scholarship and ministries for racial reconciliation, care of creation, and LGBTQ+ support. See ad, page 11.

SPIRITUAL AWAKENING CENTER 360 Daphne, AL 251-289-1038 • sac360.org sac360.org@gmail.com

A new loving, inclusive spiritual community focused on the integration of spirit, mind and body. If you’re ready for support and growth in all areas of life, this is the place to be. Join Rev. Jack Fowler and a group of inspired spiritual seekers for our 10:30 a.m. Sunday service and upcoming events, classes and workshops. Call 251-289-1038 for meeting location. All are welcome.

UNITY ON THE EASTERN SHORE

22979 US-98, Fairhope, AL 36532

UnityEasternShore@gmail.com 251-304-4715

UnityEasternShore.wixsite.com/unity

An extraordinary spiritual family honoring every religion, path and lifestyle. All are welcome to join our progressive Sunday morning service or attend one of our life-affirming classes & events. With the presence of God within each of us, we are co-creating a world that works for everyone. See ad, page 28.

DEMENTIA HELP

MIND PERFORMANCE CENTER, LLC

240 W. Laurel Ave., Foley, AL 251-597-8787

MindPerformanceCenter.com

Drugs are not the only answer. Our unique approach is noninvasive and has helped dementia patients that originally scored poorly on cognitive assessments restore to normal scoring on the same assessment. See ad, page 3.

DEPRESSION RELIEF

MIND PERFORMANCE CENTER, LLC

240 W. Laurel Ave., Foley, AL 251-597-8787

MindPerformanceCenter.com

We can reduce or eliminate symptoms of depression. Our treatments often deliver improvement when nothing else has. 70% of our depression patients see symptoms reduced by at least 50%.

See ad, page 3.

FARMERS MARKETS

COASTAL ALABAMA FARMERS & FISHERMENS MARKET

20733 Miflin Rd. (Co. Rd. 20), Foley, AL 251-709-4469

CoastalAlabamaMarket.com

Open year-round on Saturdays only, 9am2pm. Featuring local farms with seasonal produce, meat, eggs, honey, jellies, baked goods, seafood, hand-crafted soaps and more. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. See ad, page 11.

NATURE NINE FARMS, LLC Foley, AL

NatureNineFarms.com

100% sustainable farming practices. Your source for local, ethical-grown food. Pasture raised eggs, grass fed and finished beef. Find us at your local Piggly Wiggly Fairhope, Greers Markets, or order online at NatureNineFarms.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

FOOD & NUTRITION

FAIRHOPE HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ

280 Eastern Shore Shopping Center 251-928-0644 • Café: 251-929-0055

Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Comprehensive health food store and organic café serving the public for 40+ years. Extensive supplement selection: organic groceries, produce and meats; bath and body products; bulk bins; pet supplies; baby products; CBD and more. See ad, page 25.

VIRGINIA’S HEALTH FOODS AND THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ II

3055 A Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 251-479-3952

Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

Comprehensive health food store and organic café serving the public for 40+ years. Extensive supplement selection: organic groceries, produce and meats; bath and body products; bulk bins; pet supplies; baby products; CBD and more. See ad, page 25.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

GOOD

LIFE HEALTH COACHING

National Board Certified Functional Medicine Health & Wellness Coach 251-635-6250

GoodLifeHealthCoaching.com

Attention health conscious, men and women struggling to prioritize the things that will prolong your life—healthy meals, exercise, recovery. Health Coaches help you make changes when change is hard, in all areas of your life. I’ll take you by the hand to offer guidance + tools that work. See ad, page 13.

INTEGRATIVE HEALTHCARE

OF LOWER ALABAMA

620 N. McKenzie St., Ste. 200, Foley, AL 251-210-8615

AlabamaIntegrativeHealth.com

Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner Tara McLellan addresses the root cause of disease with integrative medicine—a blend of traditional western medicine and science-based functional medicine. Ask about our custom weight loss program. See ad, page 27.

HEALTH & WELLNESS SPA

HYDRO ZEN AT PEAK ALKALINITY

217-B Fairhope Ave., Fairhope, AL 2724 Old Shell Rd., Midtown Mobile, AL 251-270-7200 • 251-586-8198

PeakAlkalinity.com

Offering cleansing far infrared sauna sessions followed by a hydrating collagen shower and detoxifying foot spas. Ask about package specials. See ad, page 22

HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACHING

GOOD LIFE HEALTH COACHING

National Board Certified Functional Medicine Health & Wellness Coach 251-635-6250 • TryMyCoach@gmail.com GoodLifeHealthCoaching.com

Attention health conscious, men and women struggling to prioritize the things that will prolong your life—healthy meals, exercise, recovery. Health Coaches help you make changes when change is hard, in all areas of your life. I’ll take you by the hand to offer guidance + tools that work. See ad, page 13.

THRIVE HEALTH & WELLNESS

COACHING

Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach & Personal Trainer 251-504-5237 • BeHealthyAndThrive.com Kimberly@BeHealthyAndThrive.com

Holistic, Integrative Health Coach specializing in helping busy women get off the diet rollercoaster, release stubborn weight, balance hormones, gain energy and achieve the health they deserve in mind, body and spirit. Come love yourself healthy versus starve yourself thin!

See ad, page 15

LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE

THERMOGRAPHY ADVANTAGE

Carolyn Olson, Certified Thermographer

Mobile & Foley (other locations by request) 251-623-2225

ThermographyAdvantage.com

Electro-Lymphatic Therapy is noninvasive, painless and calming. Similar to a light touch massage, the certified lymphatic therapist uses an instrument with 2 small handheld wands that are lightly moved across the body in a direction that correlates to the body’s lymphatic flow. An impaired lymphatic system often results in inflammation, colds, flu, sinus problems, edema, excess water retention, heart disease, fibrocystic and tender breast, cellulite, enlarged prostate and cancer. The proper flow of lymphatic fluid can have a positive impact on many of these conditions. See ad, page 16.

MASSAGE THERAPY

ELEMENTS THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

6920 Airport Blvd., Ste. 111, Mobile, AL 251-342-6415

ElementsMassage.com/Mobile

A therapeutic massage handcrafted just for you. Reduced stress, elevated mood and a strengthened immune system are all part of experiencing a therapeutic massage The Elements Way. Schedule an appointment today. See ad, page 18.

JUBILEE HEALING ARTS

Jennifer (Adams) Killgo, LMT #3263 28170 N. Main St., Ste. C, Daphne, AL 251-616-4201 • JubileeHealingArts.com

Intuitive integrative massage techniques are used to facilitate the body into a state of healing without the “no pain no gain” mentality. Over 15 years experience in the bodywork and natural wellness field. See ad, page 35.

MENTAL HEALTH

NEUROFLOURISH (FAIRHOPE)

22873 US Highway 98, Ste. I-2 Fairhope, AL • 251-216-1922

NeuroFlourishLife.com

Cutting-edge treatment for ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, spectrum disorders, TBI.

NEUROFLOURISH (MOBILE)

6348 Piccadilly Square Dr., AL 251-216-1922

NeuroFlourishLife.com

Cutting-edge treatment for ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, spectrum disorders, TBI.

PERSONAL GROWTH

ENERGY MODEL OF THERAPEUTIC CHANGE

Mary Beth Svatek, M.A. Certified Hypnotherapist, IMDHA 251-300-9912 • EnergyModelOfChange.com EnergyModelOfChange@gmail.com

THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ II

3055 A Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 251-479-3952

Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

An organic cafe offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairyfree options. Open for lunch Monday-Saturday. See ad, page 25.

RESTORATIVE YOGA

35 years experience with anxiety, PTSD, weight loss, smoking cessation, removing blockages, regression, behavior modification, energy healing & streamlining, pain management. See ad, page 22.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

BISHOP PHYSICAL THERAPY

Dr. Daniel Bishop, DPT, SMT, CIDN 251-626-7778 • BishopPhysicalTherapy.com Office@BishopPhysicalTherapy.com

Our goal is to truly help patients overcome pain and conditions in a timely and cost-effective manner. We offer a unique experience by combining physical therapy, dry needling and joint alignment. See ad, page 17.

OSTEOSTRONG

Unique System for Developing Skeletal Strength

UNITY ON THE EASTERN SHORE 22979 us-98, Fairhope, AL UnityEasternShore@gmail.com. UnityEasternShore.Wixsite.com/Unity

Treat yourself to a relaxing, healing and rejuvenating session of Restorative Yoga with Bobbi Jo Machholz. Bring mat, pillow, blocks and willingness. 1st Saturday each month, 10 a.m. Donations to Unity accepted. See ad, page 28.

ROLFING

EASTERN SHORE ROLFING

Pam Reaves, Certified Rolfer® 22806 Hwy. 98, Fairhope, AL 706-681-2935

WATERSONG

22873 U.S. 98, Building I, Fairhope, AL 251-277-1816

Dennis@WatersongLife.com

We All Carry Painful Emotions. Splankna is a Christian mind/body protocol for the release of stored negative emotions from trauma resulting in emotional and physical freedom.

METAPHYSICAL SHOP

WILD FLIER BOUTIQUE

127 Harbor Blvd. 1018 Government St., Ocean Springs, MS Info@WildFlier.com

We carry a wide selection of crystals, jewelry, yoga apparel and accessories along with men’s and women’s coastal fashion. Find your inner Zen and fly high with us. See ad, page 12

Josh Fandrich, Owner Fairhope, Mobile 333 Greeno Rd., Suite 2B OR 2724 Old Shell Rd., Suite D Fairhope@OsteoStrong.me MidtownMobile@OsteoStrong.me

Just 15 minutes, once per week on our proprietary, osteogenic loading equipment can help you build a stronger you. See ad, page 19.

PLANT-BASED FOOD

THE SUNFLOWER CAFÉ

320 Eastern Shore Shopping Center, Fairhope, AL • 251-929-0055 Va-FairhopeHealthFoods.com

An organic cafe offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairyfree options. Open for lunch Monday-Saturday. See ad, page 25

Rolfing® is a holistic approach to manual therapy that seeks to improve your health and function by reestablishing the natural alignment and structural integration of the human body. More information at EasternShoreRolfing.com. See ad, page 11.

YOGA APPAREL

WILD FLIER BOUTIQUE

127 Harbor Blvd. 1018 Government St., Ocean Springs, MS Info@WildFlier.com

We carry a wide selection of crystals, jewelry, yoga apparel and accessories along with men’s and women’s coastal fashion. Find your inner Zen and fly high with us. See ad, page 12

Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.

~Ralph Waldo Emerson