Seed and Oil Cycling for Hormone Balance
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 5, 2020
Posts bySarah Axtell, ND
Boost Energy and Libido with these Chocolate Maca Truffles
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 4, 2020
Here is the recipe. Enjoy!… Read More
Dr. Axtell explains the differences between food allergies and food sensitivities
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 4, 2020
Chocolate Maca Truffles
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
Detox Pesto
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
Maple-Roasted Brussels Sprouts
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
Quick & Healthy Sweet Treat
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
Superfood Snack: Spiced Nuts with Coconut
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 10, 2020
This recipe was featured in Natural Awakenings Magazine in 2021. This is a savory and slightly sweet superfood snack. Gift your health-conscious foodie friends these spiced nuts this holiday season. People love them and are relieved to get an alternative to cookies!… Read More
Sneak Peak of New Clinic
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 10, 2020
Kale, Walnut, & Pumpkin Seed Pesto
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
Why Walking is Underrated: Top 5 Health Benefits of Walking
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
Fortifying Immunity with Food
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
Walnut Meat Tacos
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
Lakeside Natural Medicine: Milwaukee’s Food is Medicine Center
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
3 Approaches to Addressing Your PMS Naturally
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
Sunshine Caesar Salad with Roasted Cauliflower
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
Reduce Stress and Boost Memory with Seriphos
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
Healthy Hot Chocolate
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
Simple Squash with Turmeric and Walnuts
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
Treating the Causes, Not the Symptoms
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
The Importance of Limiting Screen Time
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
Roasted Butternut Squash, Apple, and Pomegranate Salad
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
Boost Energy and Mood with B12…But Supplement Wisely!
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
Double Chocolate Mint Cookies
By Sarah Axtell, ND onAugust 30, 2019
I love chocolate. The darker the better. I look forward to my couple squares of dark chocolate after dinner every night. Another treat I’ve been enjoying lately are these gluten-free cookies are made with teff flour. Teff is iron- and protein-rich gluten-free whole grain… Read More
Why Corn May be the Next Gluten
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
Keep Calm and Balance Hormones with Inositol
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
Weed Killer for Breakfast: Beware of this Toxic Ingredient in your “Health Food”
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
Rainbow Noodle Salad with Peanut Sauce
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
Probiotic for Constipation, Bloating, and Vaginal Health
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
Fat + Carbs= Dangerous Combination
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
Migrating Motor Complex: the “Housekeeper” of the Gut
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
Top 5 Reasons to Include Turmeric in Your Diet Everyday
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
Dill Avocado Dressing
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
Top 7 Food Triggers for Migraines
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
Purple Sweet Potato Mash with Pecans
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
Bye-Bye Breast Tenderness: Natural Options for Fibrocystic Breasts
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
Balance These 4 Hormones If You Want To Lose Weight
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
Brussels Sprout Slaw with Lemon, Pecorino and Dried Cherries
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
Is Your Olive Oil Fake? Choosing Quality Oil
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
Beating Back to School Jitters
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
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Energy Bites
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
Ditch the Wheat, Drop the Weight
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
L-theanine: Sleep Better at Night, Focus Better During the Day
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
Creamy Purple Cabbage Slaw with Cilantro
By Sarah Axtell, ND onAugust 19, 2018
This is one of the easiest and quickest side dishes. I serve it with Coconut Turmeric Crusted Fish as a topping for fish tacos. I like to lightly steam the cabbage as it is easier to digest when cooked. In addition… Read More
7 Common Causes of Brain Fog
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJuly 12, 2018
Do you have difficult focusing? Struggle with poor mental clarity? Worried about your memory or recall? You are likely dealing with brain fog. Brain fog is a sign that something is out of balance. Here are common causes of this all-too-common condition. 1. Blood… Read More
Grill Responsibly
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJune 30, 2018
While grilling with friends and family in the summertime can be healthy for your soul, it does come with some risks! Exposing food (notably meat) to high temperatures produces cancer-causing chemicals called heterocyclic amines (HCAs). HCAs have been found to be mutagenic, causing changes to… Read More
Mini Spinach Quinoa Hemp Bites
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 18, 2018
I made these Mini Spinach Quinoa Hemp Bites recently, and they were a hit with my kids. I find my kids like patties or individual “bites”- things they can dip in ketchup really! I’m not a huge fan of ketchup due to the sugar… Read More
Improving Mood, Energy and Focus with Rhodiola
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 18, 2018
Unfortunately, we cannot vanish stress. It’s part of life- the endless deadlines, the tending to a sick child or parent, relationship woes, etc. But what we can do is adapt to stress more appropriately with plenty of self-care (exercise, clean diet, meditation) and adaptogenic… Read More
Green Goddess Dressing
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 29, 2018
I try to avoid store bought salad dressing. First, they are typically full of inflammatory vegetable oils and sugar. Secondly, they just don’t taste very good. Dress up your salads, roasted or steamed veggies, fish or chicken with this Green Goddess Dressing. It doesn’t… Read More
Why You Should Be Eating Walnuts Daily
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 20, 2018
Walnuts are by far my favorite nut. I like them for their dynamic taste and health benefits. Here is why you should be eating walnuts daily: 1. A Healthy Brain. Walnuts are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which supports brain function. To promote… Read More