By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 27, 2016
As a naturopathic doctor, I frequently ask people if they have any food cravings. Food cravings can reveal a lot about your health. Food cravings can be both emotionally based, but they can also tie into your physical health. Like physical symptoms, food cravings give… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 27, 2016
In this study 64% of children who followed an elimination diet for 4-9 weeks experienced significant improvement of ADHD symptoms and oppositional defiant disorder as compared with the control group. An elimination diet is a restrictive diet that eliminates allergenic foods. In this study, the… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 27, 2016
A bitter herb known as Berberine has been shown to regulate glucose and lipid metabolism. This study compared Berberine with a popular diabetes drug, Metformin. Berberine proved to be just as effective as Metformin in lowering Hemoglobin A1C, fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose,… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 27, 2016
This study showed that early antibiotic use (by 6 months of age) was associated with asthma and allergies at the age of 6 years. To me, this makes sense. By eradicating all of the normal flora (“good bugs”) in the gut, the body is more… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 27, 2016
The human life span has been documented to reach about 120 years, and the maximum life span is potentially 150 years or more. Those that reach ages over 100 have been found to lead active and productive lives. These people age more slowly and typically… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 27, 2016
Both Celiac disease and gluten sensitivity are becoming more prominent these days. This is likely due to over-consumption of wheat, which is now genetically modified to have a higher concentration of gluten. It also may be due to early introduction of wheat to an infant’s… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 27, 2016
This study highlights the importance of vitamin D and cancer, specifically breast cancer. Monitoring vitamin D levels and appropriate supplementation in breast cancer patients is a MUST. Supplement with vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), the most effective and bioavailable form of vitamin D. If you’ve never done so… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 27, 2016
Weight loss is a complex subject. No two individuals gain weight for the same reason and no two individuals lose it the same way. That is why an individualized approach is ideal. My approach to weight loss is not calorie counting nor is it implementing… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 27, 2016
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 excellent source of vitamins, minerals, plant sterols, protein, and essential fatty acids. Both men and women can benefit from maca’s… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 27, 2016
Constipated? Bloated? Nauseated? Diarrhea? Gas? Fatigue? Feeling blah? Poor immunity? Eczema? Acne? Migraines? Do these words ring true to you? If so, your GI systems needs some attention. 60-90% of your immune system is concentrated in your gut mucosa. Trust your… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 12, 2016
Winter is a time to nourish yourself. Winter does not have to weaken you if you know how to prepare accordingly. Boosting your immune system starts with your diet. Here are the top 5 foods that support your immune system during the winter months:… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onNovember 27, 2016
Fall is here, and I am a big fan of Eating with the Seasons. Pumpkin is a seasonal food that can be easily added to baked goods, soups, cookies and smoothies. These Pumpkin Bars are easy and delicious- truly a taste… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onNovember 20, 2016
Fibromyalgia is theorized to be an unusually strong response by the nervous system to physical and/or emotional trauma. Traumatic events, such as a car accident, work-related injury, surgery, physical or emotional abuse, can lead to a heightened and prolonged pain response to stimuli, such as… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onNovember 18, 2016
Think beyond guacamole! The uses for avocado are endless. I’ve made it into chocolate mousse, and I frequently add it to smoothies to make it extra creamy and filling. This smoothie contains not only avocado but also peanut butter. The good fat content… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onNovember 11, 2016
Buckwheat is rich in minerals (particularly magnesium), vitamins, and antioxidants. In fact, when compared to quinoa, buckwheat has almost 10 times more antioxidants. Like quinoa, buckwheat is not actually a true grain, but it is a seed rich in protein. Buckwheat is considered… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 14, 2016
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a whole body condition, not just limited to the ovaries. Many women are affected with this condition and can result in a wide variety of not-so-pleasant symptoms, such as male-pattern hair growth, acne and even infertility. While these symptoms can… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onSeptember 14, 2016
IN THE PRESS: This article was featured in Natural Awakenings Magazine in 2016. We have ten times more bacterial cells in our body than we do human cells. These microorganisms cover us head to toe and are major players in our current and future… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onSeptember 10, 2016
The incidence of Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is on the rise. It is estimated at this ASD may affect as many as 1 in 45 children in the US. Recent research indicates that ASD may begin in the womb, and chemical exposures during… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onSeptember 10, 2016
Inflammation is a healthy immune response to bacteria, viruses, and injuries. In an acute situation, such as a sprained ankle, inflammation is an important healing process. If left unchecked, however, inflammation can lead to chronic pain and swelling and even chronic diseases, such as… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onAugust 25, 2016
It is normal for adults to get 1-2 colds per year. A baby 0-2 should get 6 colds a year, and a child 2-12 years old should have 4 colds a year. Any more than this can be a sign that something deeper is… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJuly 17, 2016
I created this recipe on a whim- you know, one of those “How can I get rid of the remaining items in my fridge” recipes. And it turned out to be so delicious and especially aesthetically pleasing. I love purple cabbage because it contains anthocyanins,… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJuly 9, 2016
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 properties. Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJuly 2, 2016
This is a perfect summer salad. Sometimes I get sick of green salads and need to spice it up. And nutritionally, you cannot go wrong with this salad as it is packed full of cancer-fighting, free radical- scavenging antioxidants. Ingredients 2 tbsp orange juice… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJune 6, 2016
Why not add broccoli to your favorite guac recipe? Broccoli is part of the cruciferous vegetable family and contains potent anti-cancer compounds. It is also a powerful detoxifying food. The fat in the avocados helps with the absorption of many of the vitamins and minerals… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJune 6, 2016
A healthier twist on an old favorite- fried rice! Ingredients 1 head cauliflower, about 2 pounds (or 2 bags of “riced” cauliflower in frozen section at Trader Joe’s) 3 tbsp coconut oil 3 tbsp red curry paste 2 tsps coconut sugar 2 tbsp… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJune 6, 2016
This sauce can be added to anything and everything to boost nutrient density and flavor in your meal. I like to use it on top of fish and chicken, but it also makes for a nice salad dressing. It contains parsley and lemon, both of… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 10, 2016
Eat more greens! This is yet another way to enjoy kale. I use miso paste in the dressing rather than anchovy paste found in traditional Caesar dressing. Miso is equally flavorful, providing that umami flavor that is classic in a Caesar salad. Miso is… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 8, 2016
This pie is for all of you chocolate lovers out there! It is rich in antioxidants thanks to the cacao powder. And the coconut oil lends a rich creamy texture. Enjoy! Chocolate Mocha Pie For Crust: 1 1/4 cups gluten-free oats 3/4 cup… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 8, 2016
Are you gaining weight despite your exercise and diet regimen? Packing on extra pounds in the midsection? Do you have weight loss resistance? If so, the answer to your weight loss may be getting better quality sleep and getting more sleep. We need… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onApril 8, 2016
We need between 7-8.5 hours sleep per night. If you get any less than this, the consequences of sleep deprivation can be significant: Fatigue Poor memory Depression Decreased motivation and mood Decreased perception of pain Decreased immunity Increased tension and stress Increased blood… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMarch 18, 2016
Today we are inundated with anti-aging quick-fixes, such as botox, fillers, and anti-aging topical serums. But truly a radiant, youthful and glowy complexion starts in the kitchen. And most importantly these foods have disease-fighting antioxidants to prevent disease and ultimately lengthen your lifespan. Top… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onMarch 6, 2016
This smoothie is reminiscent of the beloved ice cream flavor, mint chocolate chip. It makes for a perfect dessert, afternoon snack or even breakfast! Instead of chocolate chips, I use cacao nibs, which are crushed cacao beans and in my mind are “nature’s… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onFebruary 26, 2016
Hair loss can be devastating. While hair loss is a normal process (especially after pregnancy or while breastfeeding and during menopause), there are some ways to address it if it persists. Normal hair loss is shedding up to 100 hairs per day. Here are… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onFebruary 3, 2016
When levels of just one of your hormones fluctuate, the shift can have significant consequences on your mental, emotional and physical health. The endocrine system is an intricate triad of adrenal, thyroid and sex hormones, and when one system is out of balance, mood, sex… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJanuary 21, 2016
Zinc is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies I see. Zinc is an essential nutrient required for optimal health, DNA repair, immune function and brain function. Signs of Zinc Deficiency: Delayed growth and development in… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJanuary 17, 2016
This is a beautiful dish- rich in color and flavor. It is really easy, especially if you already have a pesto handy. I try to keep pesto in the freezer for easy dishes like these. This is a Low-FODMAP diet recipe. Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 23, 2015
You are hopefully used to reading nutrition labels, but do you also scrutinize your personal care products? There are over 10,000 chemical ingredients that go into personal care products. And the government does not require health studies, safety testing or FDA approval… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onDecember 21, 2015
Thyroid disorders are among the most common conditions I see in my practice. The thyroid is the organ with the highest selenium content per gram of tissue because it expresses specific selenoproteins. It is well established that selenium status correlates with the development of thyroid… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onNovember 28, 2015
Visit Lakeside Natural Medicine YouTube Channel. Subscribe to the Lakeside Natural Medicine YouTube Channel to watch the latest natural health and wellness videos. Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onNovember 22, 2015
Green tea is one of the healthiest beverages on the planet. Here are reasons why you should incorporate green tea or green tea extract as part of your daily regimen. 1. Anti-Cancer Benefits Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the bioactive constituent of green tea… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onNovember 22, 2015
Matcha is a form of green tea made from skillfully cultivated, shade-grown tea leaves that have been meticulously stone-ground into a fine powder. It is concentrated in antioxidants. It also speeds up the metabolism, aiding in weight loss. Morning is the best time to enjoy… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onNovember 3, 2015
According to a study published in the British Medical Journal in 2011, women who supplement with calcium to prevent osteoporosis are at a higher risk of atherosclerosis (formation of calcium plaques in the arteries), heart attack and stroke than those who don’t supplement with… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 25, 2015
As Thanksgiving is approaching, you might consider serving this in place of the traditional (and not so healthy!) green bean casserole. This side dish takes 10 minutes max. The Citrus-Sesame Sauce is good on any veggies, but I particularly like it on green beans. You… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onOctober 2, 2015
A high-protein breakfast can have many benefits to our bodies. Eating a protein-rich breakfast helps you feel full and satisfied longer and keep your blood-sugar levels steady throughout the day. It can also optimize your brain’s ability to send messages to the rest of your… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onSeptember 8, 2015
You are not only what you eat, but you are also what the animal eats. You are likely aware that choosing hormone-free, antibiotic-free meat, dairy and eggs is the way to go. But it turns out “Grass-fed” is the most important distinction. Grass-fed ensures… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onAugust 29, 2015
I find it difficult to make a good curry. My ultimate comfort food is Thai take-out- so warming, savory and creamy. I think I have finally mastered a homemade curry. You can make this vegetarian if you like with tofu. Or you can use chicken… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJune 27, 2015
Too busy to cook? Dedicate a Sunday to prepare these freezer-friendly, healthy meals in advance. Simply pull them out in the morning of a busy day and allow to thaw on the counter-top. When you get home, you have a fast and easy meal that… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJune 27, 2015
In today’s world, there is little free time. Between working, picking up kids, running errands, it seems like every minute is accounted for. Unfortunately, one of the first things that busy people let go of is cooking. This results in eating on the… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJune 27, 2015
Healthy Meal and Snack Ideas for a Busy Lifestyle Healthy breakfast ideas: -Nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, sunflower seed butter) and fruit (apples, pears, bananas) -2 hard-boiled eggs and leftover cooked vegetables from dinner -Green smoothie -Oatmeal with… Read More
By Sarah Axtell, ND onJune 25, 2015
Keep your family safe this summer with these quick tips on tick safety: -Wear long sleeve shirts and long pants when going into tick country. Light colors are best so ticks can be easily seen. -Tuck pants into socks and spray the clothes… Read More