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Welcome. In this issue, article topics include notes on unraveling the intricate relationship between food and nutrition, tips on helping our pollinators, and much more.
Explore insights into the evolution of dietary trends, urging a shift from restrictive diets to sustainable, balanced eating. Read how Generation Z is influencing the rise of the sober movement and a heightened demand for sustainability. Read about innovative protein sources like Rubi to the versatility of mushrooms, that are explored as emerging alternatives that align with diverse lifestyles. The Feature Article begins on page 16.
Healing Ways article, page 26
Read about the concept of Pollinator Corridors and how communities can make a difference. Explore the decline of these vital species and learn how creating pesticide-free, native-plant zones can revive populations. From butterflies to bats, these corridors become essential habitats. The author provides practical steps for designing your own. Join the ranks of change-makers, and turn to page 24 for the complete guide.
Meet Change Maker Jeffrey Smith, a passionate advocate for preserving the “nature of nature.” Journey with him as he unravels the vital role of microbes in human and planetary health, cautioning against the risks of unchecked gene editing. Discover Smith’s mission and the global impact of protecting these essential organisms. This article is on page 11.
Functional medicine emphasizes the foundational role of gut health in overall well-being and the prevention of colorectal cancer. Chronic inflammation is addressed through a functional medicine approach, removing inflammatory triggers. Restoring nutrients, replenishing good bacteria, repairing the gut lining with essential nutrients, and balancing lifestyle factors are key strategies. For a guide to optimizing colon health, read the
The future of fitness is explored revealing the latest trends. Based on research, the trend incorporates a dynamic shift from online to in-person fitness programs, to the blending of health clinics and fitness centers. Immerse yourself in a science-backed strength training approach and the workplace benefits of staying active for mental health. Turn to page 12.
An invitation is extended to explore these pages, and glean insights that resonate with your unique wellness journey. May this issue be a spark of inspiration, that may guide you toward a path of holistic well-being.
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Complementary Treatments for Kids With Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Treating children with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be complex, and parents are looking for complementary and alternative therapies. A paper published in the journal Nutrients evaluated studies regarding the effect of herbal remedies and spices in youngsters with this painful disorder.
The researchers found that iberogast, or STW-5, an herbal remedy containing licorice, peppermint and chamomile, improved symptoms in children with functional gastrointestinal disorders including IBS, and that peppermint oil reduced the severity, duration and frequency of IBS pain. Peppermint oil’s primary benefit in IBS seems to be its anti-spasmodic effect, although more research is needed to understand its impact on the gut microbiome of pediatric IBS patients. Psyllium was also found to offer effective, short-term relief in children with IBS, but further studies are needed.
Although not yet studied for childhood IBS, remedies found to provide IBS symptom relief for adults are curcumin, the active component of the turmeric spice; fennel in combination with curcumin; and artichoke leaf extract.
Toxins and Colorectal Cancer
An article published by The Institute for Functional Medicine evaluated the relationship between environmental toxins and colorectal cancer (CRC), the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Studies suggest a connection between CRC and exposure to certain pollutants, including some pesticides that are legally used in the U.S., asbestos, industrial pollutants and particulates in air pollution. Personal care items containing endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as phthalate and triclocarban were also found to be associated with CRC.
To reduce the risk of developing CRC, functional medicine practitioners recommend supporting the body’s detoxification and elimination processes while limiting exposure to these toxins. They offer toxin-assessment and treatment options that include the adequate intake of fiber and water, as well as a nutrient-dense diet that is low in animal fats and high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Healthy Plant-Based Diets
Reduce Diabetes Risk
In 2021, diabetes affected 6.1 percent of the global population, and that percentage is expected to increase to more than 10 percent by 2050. According to a study in the journal Diabetes & Metabolism, the consumption of a healthy plant-based diet can reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 24 percent as compared to those following an unhealthy plant-based diet.
These results also applied to those that were genetically predisposed to develop diabetes or had other risk factors such as age, lack of physical activity and obesity.
The study defined a healthy plant-based diet as one that eliminates animal fats and is low in sugar, sugary drinks, refined grains and starches like potatoes. The research included more than 113,000 British participants that were observed for 12 years. In addition to a lower body mass index and waist size, the researchers noted that normal levels of triglycerides, blood sugar, inflammation and the insulin-like growth factor 1 were also associated with a lower risk of diabetes, and they surmised that a healthy plantbased diet reduced diabetes risk by improving liver and kidney function.
Championing Opioid-Free Pain Management
According to the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration, more than 130 Americans die each day from opioid-related drug overdoses. Recognizing that alternative pain management protocols are needed to curtail this ongoing national problem, the state of Minnesota has created a website to identify and promote evidence-based, nonopioid and non-pharmacological options that use complementary and integrative methods.
As reported in the Journal of Integra-
tive and Complementary Medicine, NoPainMN.org was established to provide user-friendly information, including a description of each modality, video demonstrations of the treatments and links to published research and additional online resources. Minnesota’s website covers a wide range of treatment options, such as acupuncture, chiropractic, psychology, rehabilitative therapies, movement classes like tai chi and qigong, and mind-body therapies such as biofeedback and music therapy. The website also includes a searchable list of more than 17,000 practitioners in the state.
The most difficult thing is the decision to act!
~Amelia Earhart
Adding Sails to Ships to Save Money and the Planet
The maritime shipping industry contributes around 3 percent of the world’s annual greenhouse gas emissions, and industry leaders are exploring ways to reduce their carbon footprint and save money. One promising innovation is the addition of specialized sails to cargo ships. In a collaboration between Cargill, BAR Technologies, Mitsubishi Corporation and Yara Marine Technologies, a cargo ship was retrofitted with cutting-edge rectangular sails called WindWings that tower nearly 123 feet. By harnessing wind power, the developers hope to save 30 percent in fuel expenditures.
Unlike traditional canvas sails, WindWings are comprised of rigid mechanical panels that rotate and spin based on computer instructions designed to maximize wind usage. The
Mount Everest Is Melting
wings fold down to permit the ship to pass under bridges and allow for loading and unloading of cargo. This is one of many steps being taken by the maritime shipping industry to reduce emissions by 50 percent by 2050.
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DeMarta, MD, FACS,Climbing Mount Everest and standing at the highest point on Earth has long been the pinnacle of human achievement and spirit. However, the trail to the top of the world is being affected by global warming. While glaciers worldwide are melting, ice loss across the Himalayas has been especially rapid due to a rise in temperatures, threatening to disrupt waterways that feed the Indian subcontinent and endangering living conditions for hundreds of millions of people.
At Everest, the Khumbu Glacier and its ice falls serve as the primary route to the top by way of the Everest Base Camp, as well as a source of drinking water for climbers. Growing channels of water are destabilizing the glacier, exposing ice cliffs and creating ponds. In addition, the heat and activity from the hundreds of people living and working at Everest Base Camp are contributing to the decay of the glacier each year.
This glacial destabilization caused the deaths of three sherpas last April as they laid out a path for climbers. The government of Nepal is considering moving the base camp to a spot lower down the mountain, which would make the climb tougher and more dangerous. Changes at Mount Everest also threaten Nepal’s $2.4 billion tourism industry and millions of jobs.
Self-Pollinating Wildflowers Worry Scientists
The global insect population is estimated to be declining at a rate of up to 2 percent per year due to a combination of climate change, habitat loss, pesticide use and human activity. That decline includes pollinators such as bees, butterflies, moths, beetles and wasps. Almost 90 percent of flowering plants depend entirely, or in part, on animal pollination.
According to a study published in the journal New Phytologist, researchers in France have found that wildflowers in a meadow near Paris have increasingly adapted to selffertilization. They compared pansies grown from seeds harvested from 1992 to 2001 to pansies grown today, specifically examining their genetic and physical differences, and evaluating which pansies bumblebees preferred.
Finding that today’s pansies are smaller, make less nectar and are less attractive to bumblebees, the scientists concluded that the flowers had increased self-pollination by 27 percent. While this rapid adaptation may be a win for the flowers, it could exacerbate the decline in insects, which are a major food source for other animals and are integral to natural decomposition processes. The scientists believe there is an urgent need to further investigate this pattern and to evaluate the possibility of reversing the process.
Storing Renewable Energy in Hot Rocks
Storing energy from renewable power sources such as solar and wind remains a challenge. The use of large battery packs is expensive; relies on nonrenewable, environmentally problematic minerals like lithium; and comes with inherent safety risks. California-based Antora Energy is investigating ways to store energy inside insulated boxes of extremely hot rocks. The technology is based on blast furnaces that use massive towers of stacked bricks to absorb wasted heat to provide energy.
Antora’s innovation uses solar electricity to heat blocks of carbon to almost 3,000° Fahrenheit, preserving it for later use. The stored thermal energy can then be delivered to customers as electricity or ondemand industrial-process heat. Antora’s use of hot carbon solves the unreliability of providing 24/7 zero-carbon power solely
with solar and wind energies, which vary depending on the weather. Notably, the rocks are not heated by burning coal or gas but by capturing sunlight with thousands of photovoltaic solar panels.
Company leaders assert that this technology is compact and modular, making it flexible enough to be configured to fit different needs, and manufacturers will not have to wait for grid connections and upgrades. Whether this technology can be scaled to meet the growing demand remains to be seen.
Forest Stewardship
Spanning more than 31 percent of our planet’s land, forests produce clean air and fresh water, offer a home to a multitude of plants and animals, and sequester enormous amounts of carbon from the atmosphere. And yet, human activity threatens these natural settings with deforestation, climate change and illegal logging. Here are actions we can take in celebration of International Day of Forests on March 21 and every day to ensure the future of our woodlands.
Support sustainable forestry. When purchasing wood, paper and other forest products, look for those that come from sustainably managed forests or are certified by reputable organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (fsc.org) or BM TRADA (bmtrada.com).
Plant trees. Get those hands dirty and participate in tree planting initiatives with organizations such as the Arbor Day Foundation (ArborDay.org).
Reduce, reuse and recycle. Opt for recycled and eco-friendly products that lessen the demand for new products that may contribute to deforestation. Remember to recycle paper products to conserve valuable forest resources.
Go digital. Embrace digital solutions that minimize the need for paper. Store important documents electronically, read e-books instead of printed ones and consider digital alternatives before printing something.
Back sustainable livelihoods. Many communities depend on forests for their livelihoods. Encourage fair trade practices that support sustainable, forest-based industries, such as those promoting non-timber forest products like honey, nuts, mushrooms, palm oil and maple syrup.
Engage in advocacy. Join local or global organizations dedicated to forest preservation and conservation such as the Rainforest Alliance (Rainforest-Alliance.org), The Nature Conservancy (Nature.org), Sierra Club (SierraClub.org) or Trees Forever (TreesForever.org). Each voice helps shape policies and promotes sustainable practices on a larger scale.
Educate others. Share knowledge about the importance of forests and their challenges. Organize workshops, give talks or simply have conversations with friends and family to raise awareness and inspire action.
Practice responsible tourism. When
exploring forested areas, minimize the impact by following designated trails, respecting wildlife habitats, refraining from touching or feeding wild animals and taking trash home.
Support forest restoration initiatives. The Global Restoration Initiative (GRI) works with governments, businesses and communities worldwide to restore degraded forests and bring back life to these vital ecosystems. Consider supporting GRI (wri. org/initiatives/global-restoration-initiative) or local initiatives like American Forests (AmericanForests.org), Pennsylvania Parks & Forest Foundation (PAParksAndForests. org) and Tree Folks (TreeFolks.org) through donations or volunteer work.
Jeffrey Smith
Preserving the Nature of Nature
by Kelcie OttoesMicrobes are essential for human and planetary health. These single-cell organisms exist everywhere—from the bottom of the ocean to inside the body—forming symbiotic relationships with their environs. Soil microbes can increase crop yield, nutrient density, carbon sequestration and water retention, while microbial networks in forests shuttle vital resources that support trees. In the ocean, microalgae produce much of the world’s oxygen. Our bodies have more microbes than cells, and the likelihood of developing a chronic disease is closely linked to gut microbiome composition and activity.
Brian SMith, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia CommonsUltimately, his aim is to unite leaders around the globe to stop the uninhibited tampering with microbes and protect the integrity of microbiomes that positively contribute to human health, regenerative agriculture and environmental conservation.
Scientific understanding of these vital microscopic creatures is IRT played a role in that education.
More recently, Smith has turned to a new threat: gene editing of microorganisms with commercially available, inexpensive CRISPR kits that anyone can try, and are even part of some high school science programs.
While most genetically engineered microbes are expected to die in the wild, their potential impacts are unknown and unpredictable. Smith worries that a home hobbyist will unintentionally create and set free a modified organism that imperils oceans, soil, forests or humans. “What’s very concerning is what we may do to the microbiome,” he explains. “By genetically engineering microbes with novel traits, we are introducing unpredictable outcomes that are unretractable. We’re risking human health and the environment with each release.”
To save the planet’s smallest and most essential organisms, Smith is seeking worldwide awareness, engagement and new domestic laws through his for-profit company Protect Nature Now.
The last piece of saving our microbes, Smith says, is creating a curriculum so that future generations can learn to protect and respect microbes, too. “People always ask, ‘What can I do to help?’ And my answer is, it depends on what a person’s abilities, resources and interests are,” he explains. Smith encourages individuals to become educated about GMO risks, share the message, demand that lawmakers protect vital resources and financially pressure GMO food manufacturers by consuming organic products.
Kelcie Ottoes is a content writer for sustainable businesses, specializing in blog posts, case studies and white papers.
Emerging Trends in Fitness
The Latest From Workouts to Wearables
by Kimberly Whittle Da Antipina/ShutterstockMultiple studies report that an active lifestyle offers mental and physical benefits, as well as a longer healthspan. Workout strategies and fitness equipment are continually evolving to meet changing consumer interests, incorporate scientific discoveries and take advantage of technological advancements. Here is a look at the latest emerging trends in fitness.
In-Person Versus Online Fitness Programs
Connected fitness equipment that replicates the gym experience at home with online programs led by professional trainers has experienced a downturn in sales since the end of the pandemic. Lululemon Studio Mirror went out of business and Peloton has lost 40 percent of its value. The financial struggles for connected fitness are expected to continue in 2024
as consumers seek in-person connections in the post-pandemic world. The International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association’s annual member survey reports a rise in gym and studio memberships and revenue across low-cost, luxury and boutique facilities; this upswing is expected to continue.
Advances in Technology
Wearable devices that track workouts, steps and active minutes, and use biosensors to monitor health data like heart rate, blood pressure and sleep patterns continue to be popular as their functionality expands. Enhancements to popular devices include Apple Watch’s ability to identify abnormal heart rhythms; Fitbit’s improved accuracy of health and fitness monitoring and storage software; and NADIX Activewear’s capability to tell if yoga moves are being performed properly. Tech companies are expected to continue to improve the accuracy of their sensors, technology and connectivity, as wearables are part of a broader trend toward datadriven training. Real-time statistics like heart rate, velocity and speed can help individuals monitor the effort and intensity of workouts and help coaches tailor programs to each client, even in group settings. Companies like Meta and Les Mills are also expanding virtual reality for workout applications, allowing users to visit surreal locations for real fitness results without leaving home.
New Weight-Loss Drugs
A combination of aerobic exercise, strength training and diet can improve metabolic function, reduce body fat and increase the chances of maintaining a healthy weight. A new class of drugs called glucagon-like-peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists, such as Ozempic and Trulicity, which have been used to treat Type 2 diabetes, also lead to weight loss and may improve heart health.
“This class of medications is not a replacement for exercise,” stresses Steven Masley, M.D., a physician, nutritionist and author of The 30-Day Heart Tune-Up. “The drugs’ mechanisms of actions are very different; they are dramatically more expensive; and they have occasional worrisome side effects—in contrast with exercise that has
multiple health benefits. Exercise does not just enhance weight loss and blood sugar control, it also improves brain function, helps you with sleep, reduces stress, strengthens bones, improves intestinal function and improves mood. For those taking GLP-1 medications, the best results will occur when they are combined with exercise.”
Blending of Health, Wellness and Fitness
An emerging trend is the blurring of lines between health clinics and fitness centers. Some medical offices are adding personal trainers to their teams in order to complement the work of doctors and nurses, while fitness centers are acquiring or developing their own clinics to prescribe weight-loss drugs, hormone replacement protocols, integrative therapies and infrared sauna sessions. One such example is Life Time Fitness’ flagship health club in Minneapolis.
Strength Training Craze
Strength, or resistance, training continues to grow in popularity, especially among Generation Z-ers that love to post photos of their fit selves on social media and appreciate the science-based benefits, including muscle building, cardiovascular improvements, increased bone density, reduced body fat and stabilized joints.
A study of more than 400,000 people published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that those regularly practicing strength training along with aerobic exercise had a lower risk of death than those that performed only aerobic training. Another analysis from the same journal suggested that regular strength training was associated with a 10 to 17 percent lower risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, lung cancer and overall mortality.
In response to this emerging trend, Nike has developed a new line of strength training equipment; Pure Barre launched Define, a low-impact class that incorporates heavier weights; and Orangetheory Fitness expanded its workout offerings to include strength training.
Fitness in the Workplace
Some companies recognize the benefits of offering employees access to fitness facilities and health education classes, which lower insurance costs and increase productivity and mental health. If changes advocated by an American College of Sports Medicine task force come to fruition, billings for services by fitness professionals would be covered by insurance.
Staying Active for Mental Health
In a survey by Lyra Health of U.S. corporate employee benefit leaders, 95 percent of respondents said that mental health benefits are very important to prospective employees. Regular physical activity and exercise can boost mood and improve mental health, and individuals are increasingly recognizing their worth.
Kimberly Whittle is the founder and CEO of KnoWEwell, P.B.C. and the CEO of Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation.
In the realm of holistic healing, Tracy McDonough shares her expertise and compassion. As the owner of Healing Moments, in Boca Raton, McDonough, a licensed massage therapist, clinical social worker, certified energy healer, and certified life and wellness coach, has dedicated her career to blending traditional and ancient therapies for mind, body, and spirit healing.
Educational Journey and Personal Healing: A graduate with honors from Florida Atlantic University, where she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in clinical social work, McDonough’s commitment to learning didn’t end there. She also graduated from the Florida College of Natural Health and has continually expanded her knowledge through certifications in various therapeutic modalities. She is currently working on her doctorate and PhD in Integrative Medicine based on Quantum Physics.
Holistic Services at Healing Moments: McDonough’s passion for holistic wellness is deeply rooted in her personal healing journey—firsthand experiences
Healing Moments
Nurturing Wellness through Holistic Approaches
which fuel her dedication to helping others achieve their wellness goals. Not just a wellness center, Healing Moments is a haven for those seeking a holistic approach, well-informed by McDonough’s experience with over 6,000 clients in the fields of clinical therapy, energy healing, massage therapy, post-surgery lymphatic drainage, meditation, and life/ spiritual/wellness coaching, as well as her own personal healing journey from cancer and other physical and emotional trauma. McDonough has a passion for healing, and her team matches that passion, creating a beautiful environment accented by Frankincense in the paint, crystal grids under the floors, and many holistic wellness products. Mostly a word-of-mouth and referral business, Healing Moments is known as a wellrespected center in Boca Raton for the past seven years.
Customized Therapeutic Plans: At Healing Moments, they combine mind, body, and spirit healing modalities to impact all aspects of human wellness. The focus is on creating personalized therapeutic plans tailored to individual needs. The first priority is to calm
the nervous system and relax the vagus nerve, which activates the body’s innate healing mechanisms and prepares it to be able to actually receive the treatment or service needed. Types of clients include cancer patients, people suffering from anxiety and depression, detox clients, post-surgery patients, children, parents, professionals, doctors, women who have neglected themselves for their families, men who work hard to provide, and anyone needing assistance navigating life in today’s world. There is no online booking; everyone is an individual and needs their own block of time to really personalize the experience.
Not just a wellness center, Healing Moments, 3200 N Federal Hwy., Ste. 107, Boca Raton, is a holistic sanctuary where McDonough and her team guide individuals toward optimal health, well-being, and a balanced life. To embark on your wellness journey, look into their website HealingMomentsBoca. com or call to schedule an appointment and a complimentary demo session at 561-931-2187. Discover the transformative power of holistic healing at Healing Moments. See ad page 31.
Dr. Marie Roberte Laurent
Belzeb Wellness Clinic
Belzeb Wellness Clinic, led by Founder and CEO, Dr. Marie Roberte Laurent, ND, CHPN, is a provider of patient-centered treatments and all-natural skincare products. With a steadfast commitment to defining wellbeing as a realistic approach to a healthy, balanced, vibrant life, Laurent has dedicated the last two decades to providing inspiration, tools, and education for achieving optimal health.
The clinic offers a range of services catering to various health needs. For those grappling with fibromyalgia, a chronic condition affecting approximately 10 million Americans, Belzeb Wellness Clinic provides holistic approaches to alleviate constant aches and fatigue, significantly impacting daily life. Hormonal balance is another focal point, aiming to recharge every cell in the body for improved nutrient uptake, waste excretion, and overall optimal functioning. Additionally, the clinic addresses gut health, guiding individuals on enhancing their well-being through vitamins, supplements, essential oils, and dietary adjustments.
Laurent emphasizes the importance of
every person healing, contributing to the healing of those who came before and after. This philosophy underscores the clinic’s dedication to empowering individuals on their wellness journey.
Appointment structures at Belzeb Wellness Clinic are designed to ensure personalized care. The intake form facilitates the process, especially for conditions such as fibromyalgia, hormonal imbalance, and gut health. Naturopathic treatments involve an initial Zoom call with Laurent, detailed medical history, and necessary tests to develop a personalized treatment plan. Follow-up call, scheduled one week later, allows for a comprehensive review of test results and progress evaluation. The treatment plan may encompass dietary recommendations, exercise, counseling, detoxification, supplementation, herbal medicine, homeopathic remedies, bodywork, hormone balancing, hydrotherapy, and referrals to other healthcare providers or specialists as needed.
Belzeb Wellness Clinic offers a 60-minute virtual visit with Laurent. During this session, the intake form, current concerns,
and health history are reviewed to formulate a tailored treatment plan. Subsequent virtual visits focus on treatment plan adherence, progress, and necessary adjustments, with the frequency contingent on the presented condition.
Booking appointments at Belzeb Wellness Clinic is streamlined for convenience. Clients can schedule, change, or cancel appointments online, with options for evening and select Sunday appointments. (The clinic observes a pause in services from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset.)
The clinic stands as a testament to Laurent’s unwavering commitment to fostering well-being and empowering individuals to live vibrant, balanced lives. For those ready to embark on their holistic wellness journey, Belzeb Wellness Clinic welcomes both new and returning clients. To learn more and/or to schedule an appointment, visit BelzebWellnessClinic.com or call them directly at 772-577-1994. See more, page 31.
Spring: the music of open windows. ~Terri Guillemets
Food Trends for 2024
What We’re Looking for at the Dinner Table
by Carrie JacksonFew factors are as important to overall wellness as our diet. Besides taste and nutritional value, food preferences are influenced by convenience, availability, cost and personal values. Trends are shifting away from fad diets to more balanced eating, as people across generations are focused on living healthier well into their golden years. Equally as urgent is a demand for more sustainable products and manufacturing practices as consumers become
increasingly aware of the impact their food choices have on the planet.
Dr. Melinda Ring is the executive director of the Osher Center for Integrative Health at Northwestern University, in Chicago. As a leading center for integrative medicine, their team helps patients achieve optimal health through innovative, whole-person care. Ring says that personalized nutrition, plantforward diets and longevity protocols are
overtaking older trends like low-carbohydrate or high-fat fads.
“In recent years, there’s been a movement away from highly restrictive diets toward more balanced, sustainable eating patterns that emphasize whole foods over highly processed alternatives,” says Ring. “Interest in local food sources is growing, driven by concerns about sustainability and food quality. While the pandemic highlighted concerns about access to healthy food for all, busy lifestyles continue to make convenience a key factor influencing food choices.”
Ring cites nutritional psychiatry as a burgeoning field. “Emerging research suggests a link between diet and mental health, with diets rich in fruits, vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids potentially benefiting mood and cognitive function,” she explains. Ring adds that there is an increasing focus on incorporating protein for overall health, as well as personalized nutrition, in which advances in genomics and biotechnology are used to
tailor dietary recommendations to individual genetic, lifestyle and health factors.
Frances Largeman-Roth, RDN, is a New York Times bestselling author and nationally recognized health expert. Her latest book, Everyday Snack Tray, outlines fun, flavorful and nutrient-dense charcuterie boards for every occasion. She asserts that members of Generation Z—those born in the late 1990s and early 2000s—are driving many of the current shifts in food and beverage choices.
“The sober movement is rapidly gaining momentum, with an influx of mocktails, non-alcoholic beer and zero-proof wines on the market,” she explains. “People in their 30s and older are realizing that alcohol interrupts their sleep and are looking for other ways to relax at night. They’re also moving away from caffeine, which has a long half-life, so while the body may feel tired at night, the brain is still triggered. Fast-casual restaurants and cafes have increased their selection of fruit-forward, caffeine-free drinks, and a new all-natural brew called figgee, made from ground figs, is emerging online.”
Zoomers tend to be more conscious of the connection between their food decisions and impacts on the planet, which explains why they are more likely to choose and demand sustainably grown and packaged products. “This generation is drawn to brands that have carbon buy-back programs or help sequester nitrogen in their manufacturing,” says Largeman-Roth. “While we’ve seen an influx of meat alternatives in the past, there’s starting to be a pushback against the ones with long ingredient lists that are highly processed. Rubi protein made from lemna, or duckweed
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[a free-floating, aquatic plant], is gaining popularity as a plant-based protein alternative. It contains nine essential amino acids and uses 10 times less water to grow than soybeans and 100 times less water than beef. And, people are turning to the root system of mushrooms, instead of the caps, as a higher protein source. Their versatility makes them ideal for nuggets, jerky and other substantial snacks.”
Consumers are looking for foods that
can help regulate blood sugar, especially as more of the population is concerned about pre-diabetes. “People are continuing to choose nuts, beans and other highprotein boosts to refuel after a workout or in-between meals,” Largeman-Roth points out. “Products such as Good Measure bars, made of almonds, peanuts and pumpkin seeds, are emerging as nutrientrich and satisfying snacks. Consumers also realize how important fiber is for gut optimization, skin quality and mental health.
Perhaps most top-of-mind in a post-pandemic world, it’s vital for immune health, as well. Overall, people of all ages want products that make them feel better and fit into their lifestyle. A lot of boxes have to be checked for people to try a new product, and food manufacturers are stepping up.”
Perhaps taking a cue from the younger generation, members of Generation X—Americans born between 1965 and 1980—are pioneering a new approach to healthy aging to help them thrive in their diverse lifestyles. According to the global market research company Mintel, aging concerns that were once considered taboo, such as menopause, are now being openly discussed.
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“The new focus for our aging society will be an extended healthspan—the period of life spent in good health,” says Mintel Principal Analyst Jolene Ng. “This is an important shift, as population aging is a defining global trend of our time. By 2030, one in six people in the world will be aged 60 years and older, according to the World Health Organization. Brands need to consider the various nutritional, physical and mental health needs for middle-aged and older adults. Opportunities to improve healthspan include maintaining brain function with age and functional health solutions for common problems like disrupted sleep.”
Increasingly, Gen Xers aged 44 to 58 prioritize sleep as a tool for improving overall physical and emotional health. “Research has shown that total sleep time, sleep efficiency and deep sleep decrease with age,” says Ng. “Brands are focusing on innovating products with nutrients such as fiber or botanicals like lavender that can improve sleep quality. Products such as Bardo’s Calm snacks, which contain lemon balm and thyme, are emerging as a snack option for Gen Xers who are interested in trying food that supports relaxation.”
Many consumers are part of the “sandwich generation”, a term used to describe people in their 30s or 40s that are raising children while also caring for aging parents. Ng notes that brands are adjusting product
lineups and marketing campaigns to address the specific requirements of these families. She expects to see more services like Magic Kitchen, which, she explains, is “a meal kit service that offers a range of healthy, dietitian-designed meals for families with different health needs, including seniors. Their objective is to bring families together during dinnertime, while respecting the specific dietary needs of individuals within the family unit. Brands also can help ease the stress and strain on these compound caregivers by offering convenience products and helpful tools for themselves and the loved ones they care for.”
Historically, food and beverages have been
a source of great pleasure and social interaction, and Mintel Food & Drink Director David Faulkner envisions this as a continuing trend. “Just as we saw during COVID-19, food and drink will be the go-to source of comfort for consumers, delivering precious moments of joy,” he says. “It will be all the more relevant during the worsening climate
crisis for food and drink companies to position pleasurable products as necessities, not as guilty self-indulgences.”
Carrie Jackson is a Chicago-based freelance writer and frequent contributor to Natural Awakenings. Connect at CarrieJacksonWrites.com.
Planting for the Planet
Seven Herbs to Grow, Eat and Heal
by April ThompsonGrowing herbs at home has myriad benefits, enhancing health, boosting flavor and saving money while supporting local ecosystems. Home growing not only provides fresh herbs for cooking needs, but also offers access to easy and affordable natural remedies that can soothe common ailments.
“There is nothing like having your own fresh herbs in home-cooked meals. You can also dry and prep your own herbs for winter. Herbs retain more fragrance and vibrant color when you dry and process your own,” says Nadine Clopton, an herbalist who serves as regenerative education program manager for Rodale Institute.
Clopton likes to grow medicinal herbs like holy basil, as well as culinary herbs like rosemary, sage, thyme, oregano and basil, which serve as both nutrition and medicine. “They have minerals, vitamins and antioxidants, and are deeply supportive of different systems in the body,” says Clopton, who maintains a small deck herb garden in her Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, apartment.
A home herb garden boasts multiple environmental benefits, reducing our carbon footprint by eliminating the miles most herbs travel to reach the local grocery store, and eliminating pesticide use, if grown organically. Herbs are also great for attracting pollinators like bees, birds and butterflies to support a balanced and healthy ecosystem.
Great Herbs to Grow, Eat and Heal
“Rosemary is a multifaceted herb high in calcium,” says Linda Conroy, an herbalist, farmer and herb educator in Albion, Wisconsin. She uses it in topical lotions for pain relief, makes rosemary-infused salt for a flavor-booster and incorporates this pungent herb into her home-
made feta cheese. Rosemary has been shown to enhance cognition and memory. It is also a natural mosquito repellant, making it a great addition to summer patios.
Sage is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and as a natural treatment for sore throats and coughs. “This easy-to-grow perennial also helps attract pollinators,” says Conroy.
Dandelion is an excellent detoxifier that can help cleanse the liver and promote healthy digestion. “Every part of the dandelion is edible; it’s really a powerful, supportive herb. There are so many herbs like dandelion that grow wild around us, asking for our awareness and acknowledgment,” Clopton remarks.
Thyme has powerful antimicrobial properties that can help fend off bacterial infections. “It’s also anti-spasmodic and a natural expectorant, making it an excellent addition to cough remedies, which can save money compared to over-the-counter treatments,” Conroy advises.
Lemon balm is a natural stress reducer that can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. “I love growing lemon balm and holy basil together,” says Clopton. “They act like a natural mosquito repellent, in addition to all their medicinal and culinary benefits.”
Chamomile is an essential herb for relaxation and digestion. Regular consumption of chamomile tea can help reduce anxiety and promote restful sleep. Conroy also uses this herb for topical applications like lotions, body washes, foot baths and even eyewashes to soothe sore, irritated eyes.
Garlic has antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help fight infections. The bulb is also known to reduce blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels. “Garlic, chives and other plants in the allium family are all important immune-system boosters,” says Conroy.
Getting Started
For first-time growers, an herb garden may sound intimidating, but with patience and care, it can flourish even in small,
indoor spaces. Conroy recommends trying chives, as they are easy to sprout and thrive in a box or pot. She also suggests starting by growing just one herb at a time.
While Conroy grows her herbs from seed in her own greenhouse, it is perfectly acceptable to buy plants that already have a head start. Clopton suggests plants like lemon balm because it is easy to root from a cutting. She also recommends supplementing soil with organic compost to give plants an extra boost, and making sure growing containers have good drainage.
Adding herbs to an outdoor garden or indoor space is an easy way to shrink our carbon footprint and support pollinators for the good of the planet, all the while saving on groceries. Start small with an herb garden and enjoy the numerous health and other benefits herbs offer.
April Thompson is a Washington, D.C., freelance writer covering food, travel, sustainability and spirituality topics. Learn more at AprilWrites.com.
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Nourishing Herbal Infusion
This herbal infusion contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B, C and E, potassium, calcium, zinc and iron. A longer steep time maximizes the vitamins and minerals extracted from the herbs. This tea offers a great way to add some additional nourishment to the day.
YIELD: 1 CUP
Nettles
Milky oats or oatstraw (avena sativa)
Spearmint or peppermint
Red clover flowers
Red raspberry leaves
Combine equal parts of the organic dried herbs in a bowl. To make a cup of nourishing tea, use 1 tablespoon of the herb mixture per 8 ounces of hot water and steep covered for 15 minutes. For a more concentrated herbal infusion, steep for a few hours or overnight.
Recipe courtesy of Nadine Clopton. Before consuming any herbal remedies, consult with a doctor or pharmacist for possible interactions with prescription medications or preexisting health conditions.
Turmeric Eggs
YIELD: 4 SERVINGS
1 onion, sliced thin
3 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 Tbsp ghee
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp dried, powdered turmeric
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp paprika
5-8 eggs
Cilantro as garnish
Sauté onions and tomatoes in ghee until soft. Add in spices and adjust to taste. Crack 5 to 8 eggs, add them to the sauté and cover. Wait until the yolk and whites are almost set and stir. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Pollinator Corridors
Tips to Reestablish Lost Habitats
by Kelcie OttoesAwell-known Chinese proverb says, “The flapping of the wings of a butterfly can be felt on the other side of the world,” poetically reminding us that small actions can produce large effects. When it comes to the world’s disappearing pollinators, the modest steps we take today can generate life-saving results tomorrow.
According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), “Pollinators provide vital benefits to people and wildlife, keeping animals and plants that we depend on thriving while
bringing us food and supporting the economy.” Almost 90 percent of flowering plants depend entirely or in part on animal pollination, and yet, the FWS reports that pollinator populations are on the decline. One way to support these important species is to create a pollinator corridor—a pesticide-free, native-plant zone that provides food and shelter for indigenous pollinators.
The Pollinator’s Role
While the word pollinator may conjure up images of butterflies and bees, the category is much broader and includes birds, bats, lizards, moths, flies, beetles, wasps and some small mammals. “Virtually every ecosystem on Earth that contains flowering plants depends on animal pollinators,” says Kim Eierman, author of The Pollinator Victory
Garden: Win the War on Pollinator Decline with Ecological Gardening. “Many are keystone species in the ecosystems where they occur. If a keystone species becomes extinct or vanishes, that ecosystem fundamentally changes, and not for the better.”
From apples, melons and potatoes to almonds, coffee and cocoa, the food we eat is not available without pollination. Losing just one pollinator can have a significant impact. Without bees, fruit and nut trees produce fewer and smaller crops, if any. Of the top 100 edible flowering crops, 80 are pollinated by honeybees.
“Every ecosystem is dependent on pollinators to maintain healthy environmental balances in global food webs,” explains Jen McDonald, the founder of Garden Girls, a Houston-based company that designs and installs home landscapes. “Pollinators don’t make food just for us, but also for livestock and virtually all other living things. Many plants that require pollination are also needed for shade habitats for birds, insects and small animals.”
Challenges Facing Pollinators
The decline in pollinators is attributed to a loss of feeding and nesting habitats that occurs when native plants are replaced by non-native grasses, farmlands and urban landscapes. Pesticides, chemicals, parasites, non-native species, new diseases and climate change are also modern-day threats. Monarch butterflies are considered vulnerable to extinction. Nearly one in four bees (347 native species) are at increased risk of extinction. More than half of the 154 North American bat species are at severe risk of population decline.
Designing a Pollinator Corridor
The good news is that when native plants are re-introduced, pollinators return. “Abundant, diverse pollinators ensure fertile, resilient landscapes and secure food systems for communities, and backyard gardens can restore numbers that strengthen regional plant reproduction,” says Kiersten Rankel, a botanist for Greg, an app that helps people optimize their plant-growing efforts.
To get started, select a strip of land, rooftop, wall or yard that supports pollinators, including their migration, foraging and overwintering. Next, pick native and flowering plant species for the space. Perennials require less maintenance, as they come back each year. Start small. Even a few potted plants or a converted curb strip can have a big impact. Avoid using pesticides and herbicides. Beyond flowers, be sure to also include shrubs, twigs, rotting logs, branches, vines, ground cover and bare gravel. Determine if it is helpful or harmful to remove leaves from the ground in the fall and reduce or eliminate mowing practices, especially on roadsides or curbs.
To make a bigger impact, talk with neighbors and community members to create a larger corridor. Consider working with local schools, colleges, nature-focused nonprofits, government officials
that oversee parks and city planning, nurseries and farmers. The more people that are involved and invested in the corridor, the higher the odds of its continuing success.
Create a map to see the full footprint of the corridor; fill any gaps and remove invasive plant species. Include a wide diversity of native plants to serve pollinators at each stage of their life cycles. The Wild Seed Project suggests having at least 10 pollinator-friendly plants to support them year-round with continuous blooms and shelter.
An example of a giant pollinator corridor is Project Wingspan, located in the Midwest and Great Lakes region. The people behind this program are striving to create 18,000 acres of highquality habitat to support local wildlife and pollinators. On a smaller scale, the town of Orleans, Massachusetts, is working to ensure their entire community is pollinator friendly.
There has never been a better time to start or join a pollinator corridor. Those efforts could be the flap of a butterfly’s wing that changes the future for these vital creatures.
Kelcie Ottoes is a content writer for sustainable businesses, specializing in blog posts, case studies and white papers.
Functional Medicine Approach to Colon Health
Simplified Steps to Repair and Restore the Gut
by Madiha Saeed, M.D.In the United States, colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, the disease is expected to precipitate approximately 53,000 deaths in 2024, and incidence rates for people under 55 have been increasing by 1 to 2 percent each year. Regular screenings and lifestyle improvements, including a healthy diet and regular exercise, can decrease the risk.
“The gut is the root and the foundation of health,” says Vincent Pedre, M.D., a boardcertified internist specializing in functional medicine and the bestselling author of The GutSMART Protocol. In addition to dramatically improving overall health, his protocol incorporates science-backed lifestyle
modifications that have been shown to optimize gut health and reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer.
Optimizing Digestive Health
Research has proven that chronic inflammation is highly correlated with the development of colorectal cancer. A functional medicine approach begins by easing inflammation and then taking steps to restore the population of healthy bacteria in the gut by replenishing nutrients, repairing the gut lining, rebalancing the body and managing stress.
Putting out the fire in the gut: The first step is to remove the possibly offending triggers of inflammation, beginning with gluten; grains; dairy; sugar; soy; nutrient-
depleted foods containing artificial ingredients, preservatives and additives; processed foods; genetically modified foods; and any ingredient for which there is a sensitivity. A practitioner can also test for and address chronic illnesses that may be impacting the gut such as hepatitis, Epstein-Barr and other viral and fungal infections.
Replenishing nutrients: To restore the vitamins, minerals, nutrients and other essential ingredients needed for proper digestion and absorption, it is important to incorporate more organic, whole foods in the diet, but that is not the full story. As Pedre explains, “There is not one right diet. If you eat foods that you cannot break down into little nutrients and absorb, then it
doesn’t get broken down and tends to feed bad bugs that can grow inside of you. We really need to think about whether our gut is capable of breaking down the foods we actually eat because that is really what determines whether the diet is right for you.”
In his book, Pedre offers a quiz that helps people determine their level of gut dysfunction. Alternatively, a practitioner can evaluate stomach acid and digestive enzyme levels to ensure that food is being broken down properly. “Digestive enzyme supplements can help pick up where your body might be falling short, breaking down your foods, making them more digestible,” explains Steven Wright, co-founder of the Healthy Gut Company. To help support the gut microbiome, Pedre recommends altering the diet to increase the number and quantity of vegetables and fermented foods, such as sauerkraut and kimchi.
Restoring the balance of good bacteria in the gut: Crucial for colon and overall health is a robust population in the gut of probiotics (the good bacteria) and prebiotics (the food for probiotics). Fermented foods are excellent probiotic sources, while green, leafy vegetables and other high-fiber foods, as well as asparagus, carrots, garlic, leeks, raw onions, radishes and tomatoes, are some of the best prebiotics.
If levels are insufficient with just food, probiotic and prebiotic supplementation may be necessary.
Repairing the gut lining: Our intestines are lined with millions of cells that create a tight barrier—the gut lining—which in essence determines what is absorbed into the bloodstream and what stays in the gut to eventually be eliminated. When the gut lining is not healthy, however, the barrier is not able to perform its job properly, allowing toxins and bacteria to leak into the body and preventing the system from properly absorbing nutrients. To repair the lining naturally, it is imperative to eat plenty of organic, whole foods that include zinc; vitamins A, C, D and E; omega-3 fatty acids; and selenium.
Rebalancing our lifestyle: “Slowing down when you eat and saying some prayers between bites is a real big deal,” Wright advises. “It allows your gut to make acid in your stomach and make enzymes work in your intestines.” He also recommends playing and spending time outdoors with our hands in the dirt and breathing in the smells and molecules that “tell our body that it is a normal environment.” Activities like gardening and yard work add diversity of microbes from the soil and will help to balance our microbiome.
Managing stress: “Stress is an attack on your gut, a self-induced attack,” Pedre notes. By incorporating coping techniques, exercise routines, consistent sleep patterns and time in nature, we help optimize gut healing and maintain the body’s well-being and balance.
Madiha Saeed is a holistic, functional and integrative doctor in Naperville, Illinois, and director of education for Documenting Hope and KnoWEwell.
Calendar of Events
Visit NApalmbeach.com/calendar to Add Your Event by the 10th of the month for print; certain restrictions apply. Email NaturalAwakeningsFLA@gmail.com for details on using Natural Awakenings to promote events online and in print!
SATURDAY, MARCH 2
7th Annual Crystal Fest, A Community Appreciation Event — Free classes 11am6:30pm. Must RSVP! To register or for more information visit us at JamarCenter.com or call Jamar Enlightenment Center (PBG) at 561-630-2280.
SATURDAY, MARCH 16
NewLife Expo — Sat: 10am-9pm, Sunday, March 17, 10:30am -7:30pm. Connect with passionate individuals who are ready to make a difference. Booths, speakers, music, dance, art, and cacao ceremonies. Doubletree Hilton Hotel, Deerfield Beach. NewLifeExpo.com.
MONDAY, MARCH 18
Sacred Water Breathwork Retreat! — March 18–23. Allow the consciousness of water and the consciousness of breath to unite. Healing, connection, and growth. Both Dry (land) & Water (pool) Breathwork Sessions. VioletFlameRetreats.com
Ongoing Events
Wednesday
Highlight Your Ongoing Event Here! — Our readers attend published health and wellness events. Order using our online system at NApalmbeach.com. Due date for ordering is the 10th of the month for the following month’s publication.
Thursday
Weight Loss Tips with Naturopath Ahuva Gamliel (Dr. G.) — 9-9:30am. Free. Different topics, 3rd Thursday each month. Learn how to manage weight naturally, followed by Q&A. ZOOM ID: 838 039 7818 Passcode: M3WM0n tinyurl.com/DrGamliel
Friday
Holistic Health Expert Consultation — Noon-5pm. 1st Friday, Explore insights for health and spiritual well-being. Experience mind, body, spirit healing. Enhance your life with nutritional support and spiritual guidance. Michelle Cohen, Foundation for Divine Love, 505-501-0501.
Saturday
Create Powerful Crystal Grids — 9-11am. $40 deposit for Crystal Grid materials. Manifest your intentions. Selection/arrangement of crystals guided by Rena Joy. Soothe Your Soul, 827 Donald Ross Rd, Juno Beach. Limited registrations 561-650-2226. facebook.com/sootheyoursouljunobeach.
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Meditations
MEDITATE EMPATHS SPIRITUAL – Raise our vibration together! FREE Meeting Every 2 Weeks. See my Meetup: https://www. meetup.com/self-love-circle/
2024 Editorial Calendar
April | Eco-Travel
Feature: North American Eco-Adventures
May | Women’s Wellness
Feature: Hormonal Health Journey
June | Men’s Health
Feature: Mental Health for Men
July | Keeping It Cool
Feature: Eating Seasonally
August | Finding Your Tribe
Feature: The Power of Community
September | Emotional Healing
Feature: Trauma & Addiction Recovery
October | Whole Body Alignment
Feature: Chiropractic & Bodywork
November | Grateful Aging
Feature: Becoming a Wise Elder
December | Reconnect & Rejuvenate
Feature: The Gift of Self Care
Community Resource Guide
Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email NaturalAwakeningsFLA@gmail.com to request our media kit.
Acupuncture
GARDENS WHOLISTIC HEALTH CENTER
Dr. Bill Rice, DC, LAc, DCBCN 4360 Northlake Blvd., 2nd Floor Palm Beach Gardens, 33410 561-439-6644
Healthy-Answers.com
Experience Feeling Great! Dr. Rice – a wholistic physician serving patients since 1977 using Acupuncture, Kinesiology, Gentle Chiropractic care and Nutritional Counseling. We Listen • We Care • We Get Results.
Alternative Medicine
THE HEALING CENTER FOR ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
16244 S. Military Trail, Suite 120 Delray Beach FL 33484
561-498-1414
DoctorEsther49@gmail.com
Elishea.com
Dr. Esther Elisha, AP is a Hadassah Medical School graduate MD practicing alternative medicine.
• Acupuncture • Homeopathy • Holistic Therapy • Tailored Wellness Programs • Pain Management • General Health Enhancement
We accept all major insurance companies. Call to see if yours covers acupuncture!
Beauty & Health
ONENESS PERFUME
OnenessPerfume.com
Oneness ~ Let the beauty of this essence and its message inspire peaceful coexistence; may it encircle all nations and all peoples with the loving gift of gratitude to encourage cocreation and renewal of our sacred planetary home –knowing in spirit – We Are All One. Scan the display ad’s QR code. See ad page 2.
Chiropractic Physician
INNER HEALTH CHIROPRACTIC, LLC
Dr. Kristina Jensen, DC, Reiki Master 1000 Linton Blvd., Suite A7 Delray Beach, FL 33444
561-272-0388
InnerHealthChiropractic@hotmail.com IHCChiro.com
Serving South Palm Beach County since 1992. We are committed to providing our patients with healthcare that is effective and affordable in a friendly and family oriented environment.
Conscious Tree Trimming
WOODY’S CREW TREE AND LANDSCAPE
561-325-8917
WoodysTreeCrew@gmail.com
Experienced, Licensed and Insured. ISA Certified Arborist Techniques Used. Trees Big or Small We Do Them All!
See ad page 17.
Craniosacral Therapy
EILEEN YOCHEVED HANDE, BS, MA, LMT
Back in Balance
7035 Beracasa Way, Ste 104 Boca Raton, FL 33433 561-715-6185
BodyMassageAndBeyond.com
Upledger Certified CranioSacral Therapy for All Ages and Alternative Pain Management/Advanced Manual Therapies. I have developed innovative approaches to Pain Relief through the integration of these Advanced Healing Therapies for the treatment of: Trauma/Anxiety, Stress, Migraines, TMJ, Car Accident Injuries, Sciatica, Neck/Back Pain, etc. Since 1993. MA14975, MM10999
Dating
REVOLUTION DATING
Kelly Leary, M.S. Clinical Psychology
5090 PGA Blvd #208, Palm Beach Gardens
561-630-XOXO (9696)
772-932-HERE (4373)
RevolutionDating.com
Attention: Single, divorced, and widowed readers! This award-winning matchmaking firm has 31 years of experience bringing quality singles together. Their clientele ranges from young professionals to seniors from South Florida through the Treasure Coast. If you would like to find love offline — call today to book your private consultation.
Dental Health
Go Natural Dentistry
Yolanda Cintron, DMD
2021 E Commercial Blvd., Ste. 208 Fort Lauderdale FL 33308
855-381-6001
954-945-7355 (new patients)
GoNaturalDentistry.com
All phases of dentistry for optimum health, holistic, bio-compatible dentistry. • Sedation dentistry • Removing of toxic metals • Replacing them with biocompatible materials • Laser dentistry for painless surgeries & extractions • Zirconia/ceramic implants • Natural bone augmentation / Plasma Rich Growth Factor • Oral DNA Testing • Add gums to receding gums.
Energy Healing
LOVE AND HEALING ENERGY
2196 W Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach 561-270-1850
LoveAndHealingEnergy.com
Fibromyalgia, Back Pain, Arthritis, Depression quelled with our 24-Unit Energy Enhancement System (EESystem), Scalar & Bio-Photonic frequencies. Non-medical. Non-invasive. First session $40, mention Natural Awakenings.
Fine Art
CHERIE BENDER, FINE & COMMISSIONED ART STUDIO
561-789-1648
CherieBender.com
Internationally recognized artist specializing in illustration, fine art, and photography. Let’s bring your visual dreams to life.
Reach out for a complimentary consultation.
Functional Medicine
MERNA MATILSKY, M.D., FAARM, AND ABAARM
Boca Center for Healthy Living
2900 N. Military Trail, Suite 245
Boca Raton, FL 33431
561-994-2007
BocaMed.com
Facebook.com/bocaimaginewellness
Services Provided by Dr. Matilsky include Integrative Medicine, Age Management Medicine, BioIdentical Hormone Therapy, Healthy Lifestyle Management, and Weight Loss Programs.
TRUE SOURCE HEALING
Paula Centofanti, PA-C 954-779-4498
Paula@TrueSourceHealing.org
TrueSourceHealing.org
Tried Everything? Still can’t lose weight, suffer from rapid aging, joint pain, digestives issues? Schedule your free discovery call and Finally Heal! Virtual/telehealth visits.
Health Insurance
PURESURANCE
Eric Geier
561-287-9097
Puresurance.com
Enjoy the rewards of your healthy lifestyle with affordable, $0 Deductible health coverage. Say goodbye to high insurance premiums subsidizing the unhealthy. Call today.
Herbal Medicine
HERBS
& OWLS
Gina Kearney, RH (AHG), Clinical Herbalist 725 N Hwy A1A, D-10, Jupiter, 33477
561-768-9005
HerbsAndOwls.com
Offering Private Herbal Consults, Flower Essence Therapy and Herbal & Shamanism classes. Visit our Herb Shop with 200+ herbs, barks, flowers and roots plus, tinctures, oils, crystals and more! See ad page 24
Holistic Hair Salon
GLISTEN ORGANIC SALON
14545 S. Military Trail
Phenix Salon Suites, Suite 102 Delray Beach, FL 33484
561-767-0371
GlistenOrganic@gmail.com
GlistenSalon.com
“Where nature and beauty meet.” A hidden jewel in the heart of Central Delray. Come and relax in the serene, private environment while receiving the finest in organic and conventional services and products. Let our experience and professionalism guide you to Delray’s First and Best Organic Salon. Celebrating 13 years! See ad page 21.
HAIR HOLISTIC ECO-FRIENDLY STUDIO
Ibana Villasenor
141 NW 20th St., Ste. B7 Boca Raton FL 33431
561-372-5354
HairHolistic@gmail.com
HairHolistic.com
Hair services & products with a truly holistic approach like scalp-hair detox, and jet rejuvenation. Hair coloring with Henna or eco-friendly dyes, and formaldehyde-free keratine.
Holistic Veterinarian
HEALING HEART
Nancy A. Keller, DVM, CVH, CVA, CVC 222 W. Boynton Beach Blvd. Boynton Beach, FL 33435
561-740-1313
561-740-0819, fax
Integration of Ancient Wisdom and Modern Medicine. Holistic Veterinary Care for our animal friends. See ads on page 6 and 11. By appointment only.
Holistic Wellness
FOUNDATION FOR DIVINE LOVE
Michelle Cohen, M.A.
505-501-0501
BlissOfTheDivine@gmail.com
LotusHolisticHealth.org
Experience profound mindbody-spirit healing with Michelle Cohen, Medical Intuitive and Transpersonal Psychologist. Leave psychological and health issues behind for a life of balance and love consciousness.
Integrative Medicine
DEBORAH A. DEMARTA, MD, FACS, FAARFM
Institute of Health & Wellness
218 SW Atlanta Ave, Stuart, 34994 772-539-9556
InstituteHealthWellness.com
Anti-Aging, Functional and Regenerative Medicine. Colorectal Surgery and Functional GI, hormone replacement, food allergy and nutritional testing, IV vitamin therapy, heavy metals testing, medical aesthetics, THERMIva vaginal rejuvenation, ThermiSmooth skin tightening, HALO skin resurfacing, BBL BroadBand Light skin therapy, laser hair removal, botox and fillers, skin care, weight loss. See ad page 8.
There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature—the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after winter.
~ Rachel Carson
NApalmbeach.com
Intuitive Consultant
DR. DEBORAH ARMENTI
561-285-1479, Fort Lauderdale
AMysticalAge@yahoo.com
AMysticalAge.com
Clairvoyant/Psychic/Medium/ Medical Astrologer Guidance that helps you with when, what, and why of past and present experiences. Be empowered to a higher level of mind. Expertise includes guidance on paving the way for a more fulfilling future, in relationships, family, finance, spiritual/ health, path fulfillment and life purpose.
Medical Nutrition Services
SINGULAR
NUTRITION SERVICES
754-367-2765, Davie
SNS@SingularNutritionServices.com
SingularNutritionServices.com
Experience affordable telehealth services prioritizing gut health and auto-immune concerns. Attain peak well-being via tailored nutritional and lifestyle modification support. Your wellness is my primary concern.
Mind Body Spirit Wellness
HEALING MOMENTS HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTER
“A Mind, Body, Spirit Oasis”
Tracy McDonough MSW LMT
3200 N Federal Hwy #107, Boca Raton 561-931-2187
Spa@HealingMomentsFL.com
HealingMomentsBoca.com
We offer Holistic Life, Health and Mindset Coaching, Vibroacoustic Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage and Post Surgery Treatment, Energy & Chakra Healing, Meditation, BEMER Therapy, Bio-Well Biofield Scans, Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna, Kangen Water, and other healing products and services. Calm your nervous system, reduce stress, manage pain, and detox. MM36169, MA27196
Naturopathic Medicine
BELZEL WELLNESS CLINIC
Dr. Marie R. Laurent, ND, CNPH 772-577-1994
BelzebWellnessClinic.com
Experience virtual care. Restore hormone balance, address gut issues, alleviate Fibromyalgia naturally, free from medication side effects. Contact us for a free 15-minute consultation.
Supplements
THE HERBAN SHAMAN
561-254-8692
Contact@TheHerbanShaman.com
TheHerbanShaman.com
Retail and wholesale supplements.
Certified Organic, AllNatural Ingredients. Offering you the cleanest products fueled with extraordinary benefits to target your health needs. See ad page 27.
Tantra
LOURDES STARSHOWER
561-843-1261
LourdesTantra@gmail.com
TantraHealerFlorida.com
Lourdes Starshower is an Advanced Certified Tantra Educator and Founder of the Ecstatic Dakini Tantra Practitioner Certification Program. Sacred Sexuality Coach, Relationship Coach, Clairvoyant Energy Healer, Ordained Minister, Hypnotherapist and EMDR Therapist. Video program, “Tantra Practices for Divine Ecstasy.” Private PBG office or Zoom meetings. A free phone consultation available.