Seed and Oil Cycling for Hormone Balance

By Sarah Axtell, ND onMay 5, 2020

Stress and Sleep Support During Stay-in-Place

By Aidanne MacDonald-Milewski, ND onApril 29, 2020

Stress tends to carry a lot of weight both physically and emotionally. It’s a necessity that challenges us all to grow in life but can become problematic when it’s either all-consuming or we aren’t able to process it properly. Life in general is stressful,… Read More

Support Your Heart with the Mediterranean Diet

By Aidanne MacDonald-Milewski, ND onApril 27, 2020

Health and wellness of the heart are fundamental to our overall well-being. The heart is a constant powerhouse that works in complement with our lungs to provide oxygen to our tissues and brain.  It transports nutrients that we gather from the foods we eat… Read More

Natural Ways to Manage Arthritis

By Aidanne MacDonald-Milewski, ND onApril 15, 2020

Osteoarthritis is considered a “wear-and-tear” condition of the joints that most commonly presents as joint pain that is worse with activity and better with rest. Its prevalence increases with age and is most commonly experienced in the knees, hands, hips and spine. In the… Read More

Seed & Oil Cycling for Hormone Balance

By Joanne Aponte, ND onApril 14, 2020

Cycling of seeds and oils in your diet is a great way to use food as medicine to support healthy hormone balance and regulate the menstrual cycle. Your ovarian hormones (progesterone and estrogen) perform a rhythmical dance throughout the month. This rhythm can easily be… Read More

How to Keep your Fuel Tank Full During Times of Stress

By Joanne Aponte, ND onApril 12, 2020

No doubt this is a difficult time for many of us. Increased stress and strain on your resources might be taking its toll on you.  If you are a parent like me, now you’re doing double duty as teacher in addition to your regular job. 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

Immune-boosting Chicken Soup

By Joanne Aponte, ND onMarch 28, 2020

This recipe is SIBO friendly and low fodmap. There is actually some science to support chicken soup as a cold remedy! Chicken soup may block the migration of white blood cells to the upper respiratory tract and (according to a 2012 study in the American… 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

Autoimmune Disease: The Gut Connection

By Joanne Aponte, ND onMarch 13, 2020

Autoimmune diseases are a group of conditions in which the immune system goes awry and starts to attack the body’s own cells. It can no longer distinguish self (you) from invader (not you). This immune attack against “self” leads to various symptoms and disease of… 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

Alternatives to Proton Pump Inhibitors: Natural solutions for Acid reflux, GERD and indigestion

By Joanne Aponte, ND onMarch 9, 2020

Proton pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole and Nexium) are commonly prescribed to address  acid reflux as well as a whole range of digestive symptoms. Symptoms of acid reflux include burning or pain in the stomach, chest or throat, chronic cough, sore throat, bad breath… 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

The Clinic

By lakesidend onMarch 1, 2020

Immune Support 101 – Stay healthy this winter!

By Joanne Aponte, ND onFebruary 10, 2020

‘Tis the season for colds and flus! While none of us like getting sick, acute illnesses like colds and flus are a very natural and normal response of a healthy body. It is normal for adults to get 1-2 colds per year and for children… Read More

Infertility – Ovarian insufficiency and Poor Egg Quality

By Joanne Aponte, ND onJanuary 17, 2020

There is no doubt about it, infertility rates for both men and women are rising. Researchers estimate that about 15% of female infertility is due to Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI).  Premature ovarian insufficiency occurs in women under the age of 40 when the ovaries are… 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

Help Naturopathic Doctors get recognized in Wisconsin!

By Joanne Aponte, ND onJanuary 1, 2020

Wisconsin ND’s are on the verge of gaining licensure in Wisconsin. Help us make this happen!! NOW is the time to call your legislators and urge them to support bill LRB 5620 to license naturopathic doctors. Click here to search your legislators: https://maps.legis.wisconsin.gov … 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

Eating Gluten Free the Healthy Way

By Joanne Aponte, ND onOctober 9, 2019

I recommend a gluten free diet to many of my patients, and many thrive on it. Gluten is a very common gut irritant and trigger of inflammation in the body. I’ve seen it contribute to a variety of health issues. But when going gluten… 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

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

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

Why do I have SIBO?

By Joanne Aponte, ND onJuly 18, 2019

We see a lot of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) at our clinic and still, the answer to this question is not an easy one. I always ask myself “WHY does this person have SIBO?” and I do my best to figure out the answer. 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

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

Feed Your Gut Microbiome With Food

By Joanne Aponte, ND onApril 12, 2019

Your gut microbiome is made up of all the micro-organisms (bacteria) that live in your digestive tract. There are likely 10 times more bacterial cells in your body than there are human cells! In other words, we are mostly bacteria (not human!). A majority of… 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

Cleanse for the New Year

By Joanne Aponte, ND onJanuary 9, 2019

The new year is the perfect time to cleanse and “wipe your slate clean” so to speak. It is a great way to start the year off right and make a big step forward in achieving whatever health goals you may have. There is… 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

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

One Pan Mexican Quinoa

By Joanne Aponte, ND onDecember 12, 2018

1 tablespoon olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 jalapeno, minced 1 cup quinoa 1 cup vegetable broth 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed. (I like to add more beans!) 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes 1 cup corn kernels, frozen, canned… Read More

Spiced Lentil Soup

By Joanne Aponte, ND onDecember 12, 2018

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 1 medium yellow or white onion, chopped 2 carrots, peeled and chopped 4 garlic cloves, pressed or minced 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 teaspoon curry powder ½ teaspoon dried thyme 1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained 1… Read More

Chocolate Breakfast Pudding

By Joanne Aponte, ND onDecember 12, 2018

This is a great high protein, low carbohydrate breakfast option. It uses non caloric sweeteners and is full or protein and fiber,  making it a great option for those who are trying to lose weight.   2 cups unsweetened coconut or flax milk 1 slightly… Read More

Eat Alkaline Foods for Better Health

By Joanne Aponte, ND onNovember 28, 2018

Alkaline foods boost your immune system, reduce inflammation and are chock full of anti-aging anti-oxidants. Many of our diets are too high in acidic foods and are not balanced with the health promoting alkaline foods.  One thing you can do to promote better health is to… Read More

Best of Milwaukee 2018 Naturopathic Doctor + Alternative Medicine Clinic

By lakesidend onNovember 6, 2018

 ShepherdExpress.com Best of Milwaukee 2018 Finalists Best Naturopathic Doctor (ND) ->Dr. Sarah Axtell, ND or  ->Dr. Joanne Aponte, ND Finalist Best Alternative Medicine Clinic ->Lakeside Natural Medicine   … Read More

The Neti Pot for Clear Sinuses

By Joanne Aponte, ND onNovember 5, 2018

 For those of you who get a sinus infection each year and need to take antibiotics or who suffer from frequent nasal congestion due to allergies, Neti Pots are an excellent way to keep the sinuses clear and you breathing freely! For an acute sinus… 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

Chicken Chowder (Whole 30)

By Joanne Aponte, ND onNovember 2, 2018

This is a delicious simple meal from the Whole 30.  The Whole 30 is a great resource for recipes, I highly recommend their cookbooks. To get a break from Chicken I often use turkey breast instead. Enjoy! Ingredients: 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp… Read More

The Naturopathic Approach to Endometriosis

By Joanne Aponte, ND onOctober 29, 2018

Any woman with endometriosis knows how this disease can negatively impact quality of life. Pain associated with endometriosis can be debilitating. And this condition can greatly reduce chances of achieving pregnancy. The cause of endometriosis is not completely understood. Predisposition may be genetic or… 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

Packing Healthy Lunches (for kids and adults)

By Joanne Aponte, ND onSeptember 4, 2018

With a little extra planning and prep-time, it can be simple to pack healthy lunches for yourself and your family. Here are some tips and recipes to help guide and inspire you! Choose a food from each of the below groups: Protein: poultry or… 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

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

Tips for Easy Digestion and a Happy Tummy

By Joanne Aponte, ND onJuly 12, 2018

Give your digestive tract time to rest. Eat 3 discrete meals per day and 1-2 snacks if needed. Avoid constant snacking and small meals throughout the day. Your digestive tract needs REST in between meals. Stop eating 2-3 hours before bed, and fast for 12… Read More