By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 31, 2020
We aim to eat salmon once a week. I find it helps to keep the day we eat salmon consistent to ensure we get it in once weekly. Meal planning is key! In our house, we have “Salmon Mondays.” I go to the store over… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 31, 2020
Shredding beets and sauteing them on the stove-top makes for a fast and easy veggie side dish. Don’t discard those beet greens- they are food for your liver!… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 28, 2020
Sometimes you just need a creamy dressing. Oil and vinegar gets boring so this is where tahini comes in. Tahini is sesame seed butter (often a main ingredient in hummus). Tahini is a great source of calcium (yes, despite what the USDA would like you… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 14, 2020
Dr. Axtell shares the benefits of turmeric and curcumin, especially today. Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 9, 2020
Sleep deprivation or insomnia can lead to: Memory and cognitive dysfunction: Your brain cleans itself at night. Think of your brain taking the garbage out. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) washes in and out in wave-like motions to eliminate accumulated metabolic “trash” in the brain. In… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 9, 2020
Ever notice that when you are eating poorly that your PMS symptoms seem out of control? Do you experience “period poops”? Abdominal bloating or “PMS bloat”? You’ve heard about the gut-brain connection, but did you know that there is intimate connection between your gut and… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 8, 2020
So many women struggle with PMS, debilitating menopausal symptoms, weight gain, breast tenderness, and cramps. While these are common symptoms, they are not normal or optimal. Rather than simply take the pill to mask the symptoms, our goal as NDs is to identify and address… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 5, 2020
I eat these pumpkin muffins year-round as they are reminiscent of my favorite dessert: pumpkin pie. Not only are they delicious and moist, but they are packed full of nutrients. The pumpkin provides the immune-supporting Vitamin A. The almond flour and the ground seeds… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 5, 2020
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 4, 2020
Here is the recipe. Enjoy!… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 4, 2020
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 1, 2020
In honor of Mother’s Day, this post is for all you tired ladies out there that need a natural boost! Maca is a plant native to the Andes, revered for its many nutritional and medicinal properties. Maca is a true super-food, for it is an… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 23, 2020
I call this “Detox Pesto” thanks to the cleansing dandelion greens and cilantro. We tend to think of dandelion greens as a pesky weed, but they are actually quite medicinal, especially to our liver and digestive tract. Dandelion simulates phase 1 and phase 2 pathways… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 23, 2020
Brussels sprouts are part of the cruciferous vegetable family. Cruciferous vegetable consumption has been implicated in the prevention of many different cancers, including lymphoma, breast, prostate, bladder, and lung cancer. Cruciferous vegetables contain the anti-cancer and liver-supportive substances, sulforophane and indole-3-carbinol. Indole-3-carbinol induces phase 1… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 13, 2020
This is a great recipe to get the kids involved in the the kitchen. Nutritious energy that tastes great too! Lu and Cece approved!Posted by Lakeside Natural Medicine on Wednesday, April 15, 2020… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 10, 2020
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 3, 2020
This pesto is one-of-a-kind! It is packed with flavor AND nutrients-minerals (zinc, iron and calcium), chlorophyll (a detoxifying component of green leafies) and omega-3 fatty acids. It is rich in immune-supportive zinc, thanks to the pumpkin seeds. The pesto is dairy-free, but trust me, you… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 2, 2020
Given the pandemic of COVID-19 and the resultant “safer at home” order, I’ve noticed a lot of people are out walking lately. Walking is an excellent way to manage stress and get some exercise. If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMarch 27, 2020
I am a firm believer in “food is medicine.” Now is the time to prioritize a healthy diet to give your body the nourishment it needs to stay healthy. The goal of this blog post is to provide you with sound information to support your… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMarch 20, 2020
Not every meal needs to contain meat. I do think “happy meat” (grass-fed, organic) can be included as part of a healthy diet. Eating sustainably-raised, “happy meat” is not likely harmful and can be beneficial by stabilizing blood sugar, increasing HDL (or good cholesterol), decreasing… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMarch 10, 2020
In Spring 2020, we moved into our new clinic at 3510 N Oakland Ave in Shorewood, doubling our space and added a third naturopathic doctor to our team. As you may know, we are passionate about using food as medicine with our patients. Our new… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMarch 6, 2020
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to the cyclical nature of symptoms that appear during the luteal phase (or second half) of the menstrual cycle. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of PMS that is more debilitating. Symptoms of PMS and PMDD include irritability, anger,… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onFebruary 6, 2020
This salad incorporates the following superfoods: cauliflower, turmeric, walnuts, and capers. Cauliflower belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family. Cruciferous vegetable consumption has been implicated in the prevention of many different cancers, including lymphoma, breast, prostate, bladder, and lung cancer. Cruciferous vegetables contain the anti-cancer substances,… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJanuary 5, 2020
Elevated cortisol can result in insomnia, a “wired but tired” feeling, anxiety, and weight gain in the mid-section. Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 31, 2019
Forget the powdered hot chocolate mixes that are full of sugar and dairy. This Healthy Hot Chocolate recipe uses raw cacao and is sugar-free, dairy-free. Raw cacao is a super-food rich in antioxidants and magnesium (more magnesium than a serving of spinach!). This hot… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onNovember 3, 2019
This is one of my favorite ways to eat squash in the Fall and Winter. I actually eat it for breakfast often. It is easy, warming, and is a great way to incorporate more turmeric… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 10, 2019
Dr. Axtell was recently interviewed for this article in Shepherd Express on alternative medicine. Check it out!… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 1, 2019
We live in a world where phones, tablets, laptops, and tvs are ubiquitous. It is time to pause and question the effects of them…especially on the health and development of our children. A 2015 survey by Common Sense Media found that children ages 8-12… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onSeptember 30, 2019
This salad truly is a taste of Fall. It’s easy, packed full of antioxidants, and delicious. Enjoy! Ingredients: 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed (I often buy Trader Joe’s pre-cut bags of butternut squash. Use 2 bags) 1 TBSP avocado oil2 tsps turmericSalt and pepper8… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onSeptember 27, 2019
Feeling tired and run down? Struggling with depression or anxiety? Dealing with poor memory or focus? Experiencing numbness or tingling? You may be low in B12 and require a B12 supplement. But not all B12 supplements are created equally. Here are some B12 basics: B12’s… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onAugust 30, 2019
Have you removed gluten from your diet but are still having issues with your health? Corn may be to blame. I often recommend gluten-free diets. I always caution individuals on over-consuming highly processed gluten-free products (gluten-free crackers, breads, bagels, muffins, cookies, cereals, etc) as they… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJuly 17, 2019
Inositol was once previously considered a B vitamin, but it is now considered a pseudo-vitamin and is found primarily in whole grains, citrus fruits, and beans.It is commonly used for blood sugar regulation and treating polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), but it is also is… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 20, 2019
This Blueberry Collagen Baked Oatmeal is filling and protein-packed (thanks to the collagen powder) and perfect to meal prep ahead for a healthy weekday breakfast. Consider using Bob’s Red Mill Protein Oats to up your protein-game even more. These protein oats have no… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 17, 2019
Glyphosate is the world’s top-selling weed killer and key ingredient in Monsanto’s herbicide, Roundup. While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) claims that glyphosate has “low toxicity for humans,” the World Health Organization (WHO) declared glyphosate a “probable carcinogen.” In addition to increasing cancer risk,… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 15, 2019
“Eat the colors of the rainbow” is a mantra I frequently say to my family and patients. And I always strive to practice what I preach! This salad is EASY and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters, as it is deconstructed and allows… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 15, 2019
There is a growing interest in the use of probiotics for gastrointestinal issues and women’s health issues, such as UTI’s and vaginal yeast infections. Confused on which particular probiotic to take for these issues? Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) is a strain of bacteria… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 5, 2019
Fat is good for you…but NOT when combined with carbs (ie. French fries, chocolate cake and doughnuts). This dangerous combination can raise ghrelin, the “hunger hormone,” telling you to pick up your fork. Combining carbs and fat can also induce a temporary state of… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMarch 16, 2019
If you have been diagnosed with IBS and/or SIBO and your symptoms continue to recur, your migrating motor complex (MMC) may need some support. The migrating motor complex is often referred to as the “housekeeper wave.” It is the quick, intense… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMarch 16, 2019
If I could only use one herb for the rest of my life, it would be turmeric. It really is a “cure-all.” Turmeric is the spice that gives Indian curry it’s yellow hue. The active ingredient is curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMarch 1, 2019
If you are a fan of creamy dressings, this Dill Avocado Dressing is a must! This can be used as a dip with veggies or as a salad dressing. It is full of good fat, which keeps you full and satisfied. Ingredients 1/4… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJanuary 6, 2019
If you or someone you know suffers from migraines, you know that they significantly affect quality of life. In fact, the World Health Organization ranks migraines among the world’s most disabling medical illnesses. They can send you straight to bed and may be associated with… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJanuary 5, 2019
I often sound like a broken record, advising my patients and my own family to “Eat the colors of the rainbow.” Purple sweet potatoes are an excellent way to include the color purple and thus a hefty dose of antioxidants in your diet. Anthocyanins are… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 21, 2018
Fibrocystic breast disease is a benign disorder of the breasts that results in lumpiness, nodules and pain. It is not associated with breast cancer risk. However, it can be quite painful and bothersome for many women. Supplements for Breast Health A… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onNovember 2, 2018
Weight loss is not as easy as cutting calories and increasing exercise. Certainly, increasing your activity level and prioritizing a healthy diet is important. After all, my passion is FOOD AS MEDICINE! But time and time again I see women struggle with weight loss,… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 18, 2018
This veggie side dish is super tasty and ultra-cleansing thanks to the parsley, brussels and lemon juice (all foods that support the liver). This recipe also includes Pecorino Romano cheese- sheep’s cheese, which is easier to digest than dairy that comes from cows. If you… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 12, 2018
The consensus is that olive oil is healthy BUT buyer beware! Recent studies show low quality oils, such as soy or canola oil, and artificial coloring are labeled as extra-virgin olive oils to the American public. In the United States, the FDA does not routinely… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onSeptember 6, 2018
Returning back to school after summer vacation can be exciting but also stressful. A change in the routine from Summer to Fall can trigger anxiety, difficulty focusing, and behavioral challenges for some. Here are some ways to beat the back-to-school jitters and optimize your… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onSeptember 3, 2018
My daughters, Cece and Lulu, made up this recipe. They make a batch weekly on Sunday, and we store them in the freezer. I find that getting kids involved in cooking leads to a more adventurous, healthy eater. These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Energy Bites… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onSeptember 3, 2018
Weight loss is more complex than the “calories in, calories out” model. Simply counting calories and working out at the gym often does not cut it. Balancing hormones (thyroid, adrenal and sex hormones) along with reducing inflammation are key factors for effective, sustainable weight… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onSeptember 2, 2018
I often encourage my patients to drink green tea, not only for the antioxidants it provides, but also because it is a natural dose of L-theanine. L-theanine is an amino acid that promotes GABA production, our calming neurotransmitter. Benefits of L-theanine: Improved sleep Relaxation and… Read More