Aging: Two Books I’m Finding Useful

By Joan Haynes, NMD My own grappling with aging draws me, more than ever, toward a deeper understanding of the issues associated with getting older.  Here are two recent books I draw inspiration from, both personally and professionally: Elderhood: Redefining Aging, Transforming Medicine, Reimagining Life By Louise Aronson, MD   Most people alive today will spend … Read more

Are Foods Causing Your Symptoms? Understanding Testing Options

Adverse food reactions are very common. If you have health concerns, this article will help you examine whether food might be a cause or contributing factor. What are Adverse Food Reactions? Adverse food reactions can be broadly classified into 2 categories: Sensitivity or Intolerance Time delayed reaction that occurs within hours to days of exposure … Read more

Test Your Gut Microbiome with a Simple Stool Sample

By Joan Haynes, NMD Your unique make up of the bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and fungus that compromise your microbiome have a profound effect on how you digest food, fight disease, and even your mood and behavior.  The GI MAP test offered by Diagnostic Solutions provides an easy and affordable way to understand what may be … Read more

When the Immune System Overreacts: Naturopathic Treatment of Autoimmune Disease

by Joan Haynes, NMD One in twelve people and one in nine women will be diagnosed with an autoimmune disease in their lifetime.  Because of our whole-body approach, naturopathic physicians have a lot to offer patients with autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, lupus, and multiple sclerosis.   Reducing the “Total Load” In order … Read more

Well-Prepared Natural Travel Kit

by Joan Haynes, NMD Buy a basic first-aid travel kit and add your own natural medicines There are a wide variety of basic travel kits available for basic first aid. Here is a list of sites that supply them. Choose your kit based on how long your trip is and the availability of the nearest … Read more

Dry Skin Brushing

by Joan Haynes, NMD Skin is the largest organ of our body.  With regular skin brushing, you help your lymph system to improve its circulation to rid your body of toxins.  It also increases cell renewal by removing dead skin layers and can even reduce the appearance of cellulite. Buy a natural, not synthetic, bristle … Read more

Homemade Electrolyte Drink

Recipe In a large glass such as quart jar: Filtered water (and optional ice).  Fill 9/10ths of the way full.  Sugar sweetened beverage such as lemonade*.  Fill remaining 1/10 of jar.  ¼ – ½ tsp pink Himalayan salt or commercial electrolytes**. The Importance of Electrolytes: Electrolytes are minerals in your body that have an electric … Read more

Heartburn – Get Relief with Naturopathic Medicine

by Joan Haynes, NMD Up at night with heartburn?  Worried about the side effects of acid blocking prescriptions?  Learn what other options you can explore to tame the discomfort and optimize your digestion and thereby your overall health. Conventional medicine offers patients little insight into the cause of heartburn and instead puts a band aid … Read more