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Over the past few years, I slowly changed the way I shop, stock my pantry, and cook for my family. I do have blogs that cover where to shop, good swaps and ingredients to watch out for. The more research that comes out about our food system and metabolic health, the clearer it becomes that this is not a small issue. It affects all of us. You and your family’s health are worth the effort. Why Pay Attention to Ingredients? Many of the most common chronic issues today, like heart disease and type 2 diabetes, are strongly connected to diet and lifestyle. That alone should get our attention. Often the body whispers before it screams. Skin issues like rashes, acne, psoriasis, rosacea, dry skin, brittle nails, thinning hair, or hair loss can sometimes be early signs that something is off internally. So many of us brush these things off as “normal.” We might use a cream or take a prescription that helps the symptom but never ask why it is happening. *If something does not feel right, see your doctor. That is important. You can also consider a functional medicine practitioner or a registered dietitian to dig deeper into nutrition and root causes. That kind of guidance can be incredibly helpful. I speak from experience. My Background With Food I wasn’t born loving to cook, and I never really learned while growing up. My mom did her best, but gourmet meals weren’t her thing. We always had fruits and vegetables in the house and rarely ate out. She made sure dinner was on the table, usually a simple meal like meat and vegetables or pasta and meatballs. In my early twenties, I cared about healthy eating but did not fully understand how the body uses food as fuel. Even so, eating relatively healthy helped me avoid major issues and raise a healthy family. Simple Swaps That Make a Big Difference You do not have to change everything overnight. Start with simple ingredient upgrades. Flour Choose organic unbleached flour. It is less processed and avoids bleaching agents used in conventional flour. Arrowroot instead of cornstarch A simple thickener and a good option if you want to avoid heavily processed corn products. Aluminum-free baking powder Some baking powders contain aluminum compounds. Many people prefer to avoid them. Pasture-raised eggs These come from hens with better diets and living conditions, and many people feel better about their quality. Organic or raw milk if that fits your comfort level Everyone has a different comfort zone. Learning about your options helps you choose what aligns with your values. Pasture-raised meats and real butter Less processing, more traditional food. Shred your own cheese Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents like cellulose to prevent clumping. Cellulose is a plant fiber used as an additive for texture and shelf life, not nutrition. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and is less processed. Chocolate chips without soy lecithin Soy lecithin is a processed additive from soybean oil used to keep ingredients from separating. It is mainly there for manufacturing convenience, not nourishment. Choosing simpler chocolate is an easy upgrade. Seasonings and spices Spices are a sneaky place where fillers and artificial flavors can hide. Choose organic or brands without fillers when possible. McCormick makes a taco seasoning without artificial flavors, which is a better option than many packets. I order my taco seasoning from Thrive Market. Peanut butter Look for peanut butter with just peanuts and salt. Many brands add sugars and oils that are not needed. Natural separation is normal. If it fits your budget, organic is a great option. And there is a tool that makes mixing it easy! Homemade salad dressing and mayo Many bottled versions contain preservatives, seed oils, and stabilizers. Homemade tastes better and uses real ingredients. Durum wheat pasta Typically less processed and has a firm texture many people enjoy. Bakery bread or homemade sourdough Local bakeries often use simpler ingredients. Sourdough is great if you enjoy baking, but even choosing better bread is a step up. Organic heavy whipping cream Not all organic whipping creams are the same. Many brands add stabilizers or gums like gellan gum for texture and shelf life. This is why I often buy mine at Sprouts. Their organic whipping cream has fewer ingredients and is closer to what cream should be. Organic does not automatically mean simple. Flip the carton and read the label. The goal is real food, not just organic food. Ditching the Box Mixes I stopped buying pancake, brownie, and cookie mixes. Read the labels and you will see why. Keeping basics like good flour, baking powder, butter, and sugar on hand makes it easy to make pancakes or waffles quickly. It becomes normal faster than you think. Once You Start, It Gets Easier When your pantry is stocked with cleaner ingredients, cooking from scratch feels less overwhelming. Then it is just about finding recipes you enjoy. Pinterest and Google are full of ideas. In my kitchen I now make: • Cheese sauce • Stroganoff sauce • Taco sauce • Balsamic dressing • Hummus • Baked goods for the kids • Mayo • Bread with my sourdough starter Do I love cooking every day? Honestly, no. But I love knowing what is in our food and how my family feels. How I Shop in Real Life I shop around to get the best quality for the best price. I buy organic heavy whipping cream, pasta, and some meats at Sprouts. Walmart has had the best price on organic unbleached flour. Sam’s Club is great for pasture-raised eggs, but Aldi is a solid option if you do not have a membership. I also buy my organic whole milk at Aldi for the price. For produce, I like my local ShopRite because many items come from local farms. It is worth asking your store where their produce is sourced. Aldi is another favorite for fruits, vegetables, and pantry staples like beans and lentils. I also use Thrive Market online for better-for-you kids snacks, spices, and pantry items, which makes it easier to keep cleaner options on hand. Real-Life Fridge Staples I keep simple, real foods ready so healthy choices are easy. Hard boiled eggs are almost always prepped for quick snacks or to add to salads. My fridge is usually stocked with romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, carrots, onions, cucumbers, and celery so I can pull together meals without much thought. For fruit, I rotate through green and red apples, blueberries, and oranges, which makes grabbing something sweet and fresh just as convenient as packaged snacks. Plain Greek yogurt is another staple. Flavored yogurts often contain added sugars and extra ingredients, so I buy plain and sweeten it myself with honey or fruit. It is simple and high in protein. I also keep nuts and seeds like peanuts, almonds, shelled pumpkin seeds, and shelled sunflower seeds. They are perfect for salads or a quick protein boost. I pay attention to labels because many are coated in oils like canola. I prefer plain and dry roast them myself. And yes, I snack on them throughout the day. I joke that I’m like a squirrel, but it works. 😄 A Little Encouragement You do not have to be perfect. You just have to start. One swap at a time. One label at a time. One homemade recipe at a time. Small changes add up. Your body, your skin, and your energy often reflect what you consistently give them. If this feels overwhelming, pick one thing this week and change it. That is enough. Your future self and your family will thank you. 💜 And remember, the longer the shelf life of a product, the shorter your life . 40% Off Thrive Market Registered Dietian (They take insurance!) Peanut Butter Stirrer with a Silicone Spatula As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made within 24 hours of clicking my links, and I truly appreciate your support.

I’ve tried my share of wellness products, and I’m pretty picky about what earns a permanent spot in my routine. Alaya Multi Collagen Powder is one that stayed. What I like most is that it is straightforward. No sweeteners, no mystery flavors, no long ingredient lists. Just a clean, multi-source collagen with types I, II, III, V, and X. Alaya Multi-Collagen contains 20 essential amino acids, along with joint support ingredients like MSM, chondroitin, and glucosamine. It mixes right into my morning coffee and disappears. No strange taste, no gritty texture. Stir, sip, done. Another plus is that the peptides are a tiny size, which helps with absorption. Smaller peptides are easier for the body to break down and use, so you are not just taking collagen, you are actually able to utilize it. Why Do We Need Collagen? Collagen is a structural protein, actually the most common protein in your entire body. It is a major building block for skin, hair, nails, joints, connective tissue, and even the gut lining. After about age 30, our natural collagen production starts to decline. That gradual drop is one reason we notice changes in skin, joints, and recovery as we get older. Adding collagen to the diet is a simple way to help support what the body is already designed to use. Quality Matters This is where not all supplements are equal. • Sourced from quality ingredients Sourced from grass-fed, hormone-free bovine, cage-free chicken, and wild-caught fish, which helps ensure a clean and more ethical product. Quality in equals quality out. • 3rd-party tested for purity and potency This means an independent lab checks that what is on the label is actually in the product and that it is free from unwanted contaminants. It adds a layer of trust and transparency, which is huge in the supplement world. • GMP certified for safety GMP stands for Good Manufacturing Practices. It means the product is made in facilities that follow strict quality and safety standards. Clean process, consistent product. Those details might sound boring, but they are the behind-the-scenes reasons a supplement is reliable. What I’ve personally noticed Everyone is different, but here is what stood out for me after consistent daily use: • Smoother skin texture • Stronger nails • Happier joints with less achiness Nothing dramatic overnight, just steady improvements that make you smile when you catch them. The price makes sense Collagen can get pricey fast. This one sits at a comfortable price point for a multi-collagen blend. If you use a subscription option on Amazon, it drops the cost even more. For most people, a one-month delivery schedule works well and keeps you consistent. Simple advice if you’re shopping for collagen If you are new to collagen, look for: • Multiple collagen types • Hydrolyzed peptides for easy absorption • No added sugars or fillers • A routine you will actually stick to The best supplement is the one you use daily, not the one collecting dust in the cabinet. For me, this has become a small daily habit that supports skin, nails, and joints without any fuss. Coffee plus collagen and I’m out the door. Easy, supportive, and realistic for a busy life. 🫶🏻 Alaya Multi-Collagen Powder *As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made within 24 hours of clicking my links, and I truly appreciate your support.

You want to win your mornings and own your days, right? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because the secret is simpler than you think—get up just 15 minutes earlier. That’s it. The world’s quiet, the coffee’s hot, and nobody’s blowing up your phone. You can crush your number one priority before the world even realizes you're awake. Genius, right? Well, in theory. But, let’s be real—life is full of distractions, chaos, and endless snooze button temptations. So, how do you actually pull this off without turning into a zombie by 7 a.m.? Enter the magic of the 10-3-2-1-0 Formula. This little gem helps you hit the sack on time, sleep like a baby, and wake up feeling ready to tackle your to-do list (or, you know, the world). Here’s how it works: 10 hours before bed – Say goodbye to caffeine. Yes, even that afternoon pick-me-up latte. It hurts, I know, but trust me, it’s worth it. 3 hours before bed – No more food or alcohol. This means no late-night snacks or nightcaps. Let your body chill and focus on other important things (more on that later). 2 hours before bed – Shut the laptop. Stop thinking about work, your job for the day is done. 1 hour before bed – Screen time is over. Turn off the phones, TVs, and computers. It’s time for your brain to unwind, not scroll endlessly through Instagram. 0 – That’s the number of times you’ll hit snooze in the morning. Zero. Zilch. No "just five more minutes." Get. Up. Simple, right? Stick to this formula and you’ll be conquering mornings like a champ—well-rested, focused, and ready for whatever the day throws your way. No excuses, just action. Now, let’s talk about that "no eating 3 hours before bed" rule, because there’s more to it than just dodging heartburn. When you eat before bed, you’re handing your body two jobs: digest that snack and repair your cells from the day’s wear and tear. While your body can multitask, do you really want it working overtime when you should be getting deep, restful sleep? Here’s the deal: Sleep is your body’s night shift. This is when it repairs cells, balances hormones, and recovers your muscles and skin. If you’re still digesting that midnight burrito, your body’s energy is split between breaking down food and doing those critical repairs. So instead of waking up refreshed and ready to slay the day, you wake up sluggish, like your body pulled an all-nighter. ( In bold because I can’t stress this enough!) What you eat, especially in the evening, can significantly impact your sleep. For instance, having a large meal within an hour of going to bed can make it harder to fall asleep. Certain foods might also interfere with sleep quality—though the research is mixed, some studies suggest that refined carbohydrates could disrupt sleep or even trigger insomnia. On the flip side, avoiding processed foods and opting for a healthy diet full of low glycemic index (GI) foods can improve your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. Good options include whole grains, nuts, low-fat or nonfat dairy, fruits, and vegetables. Regardless of what you eat, digestion takes time—usually 2 to 3 hours. If you lie down too soon after eating, you might experience discomfort, nausea, or slow digestion. To avoid this, it's best to give your body enough time to fully digest your meal before hitting the pillow. Keep in mind, the exact time needed for digestion can vary from person to person. Plus, digestion cranks up your body temperature and messes with your sleep cycles. Instead of easing into deep sleep, you’re still processing that late-night pizza. Bottom line? Let your body prioritize rest and recovery. Give it a break from digesting, and let sleep do what it’s meant to—repair, rejuvenate, and recharge. As for those phones? Let’s spill the tea on why you need to pry them out of your hands before bed. I get it—scrolling through Instagram, texting, or binge-watching videos feels like a nice wind-down, right? But here’s the harsh truth: your phone is a sleep thief. First off, the blue light from your phone tricks your brain into thinking it’s still daytime. This messes with your melatonin production—the hormone that tells your body it’s time for sleep. Instead of winding down, you’re wide awake, and that deep snooze is nowhere in sight. Second, all that late-night scrolling stimulates your brain. Social media, emails, texts—whatever it is, it's not helping you relax. It revs up your mind, making it harder to fall asleep. Your brain needs downtime to shut off and process the day, not a news feed filled with stress. Lastly, if your phone is by your bedside, it’s going to ping and light up, tempting you to check it. Those notifications interrupt your sleep cycles, leaving you groggy and exhausted come morning. Make sure it is in sleep mode! I have an iPhone and customized it so that only the contacts I choose can break through sleep mode!  So I can rest assured, if there’s an emergency, I’ll still get an alert. So, put the phone down an hour before bed. It’s time to unplug and let your body and brain chill out. Trust me, the world will still be there tomorrow—your sleep is way more important. Now, let’s talk about how to define your bedtime. It’s simple math, really. Adults between 18 and 64 years old need 7 to 9 hours of sleep. If you’re a bit older (65+), aim for 7 to 8 hours. Teenagers? Yeah, good luck telling them this, but they need 8 to 10 hours. So, start with how much sleep you need and work backwards to set your bedtime. And remember, these are guidelines! But imagine how good you’ll feel if you could achieve this at least 3 times a week! To that i say, challenge accepted!! But here’s where it gets interesting: Sleep isn’t just about the hours you log. It’s about sleep cycles. A full cycle takes around 90 minutes, and you’ll go through four to five cycles a night. To avoid waking up feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck, time your wake-up to the end of a sleep cycle when you’re in a lighter stage of sleep. Do the math: Calculate your sleep in 90-minute blocks, so you wake up at the right point in your cycle, not in the middle of a REM dream about flying tacos. Trust me, waking up at the end of a cycle will make all the difference in how you feel in the morning. Plan your bedtime and set your alarm so you’re waking up at an optimal time. Your mornings just got a whole lot easier—and your future self will thank you for it. And of course I will give you some examples so your brain doesn’t explode from doing math! 😆 If you want to wake up at 6 AM , here are some optimal bedtimes based on the 90-minute sleep cycle: - 12:00 AM (for 4 sleep cycles) - 10:30 PM (for 5 sleep cycles) - 09:00 PM (for 6 sleep cycles) But if you’re and early, early bird, here are the optimal bedtimes based on 90-minute sleep cycles for waking up at 5 AM and 5:30 AM : - For a 5 AM wake-up:   - 11:00 PM (4 sleep cycles)   - 9:30 PM (5 sleep cycles)   - 8:00 PM (6 sleep cycles) - For a 5:30 AM wake-up:   - 11:30 PM (4 sleep cycles)   - 10:00 PM (5 sleep cycles)   - 8:30 PM (6 sleep cycles) Choose whichever bedtime fits best with your routine to ensure you wake up feeling refreshed! And one more thing that doesn’t get enough credit: your pillow. If you are waking up with neck pain, headaches, or stiffness, your pillow may be part of the problem. A cervical sleep pillow supports the natural curve of the neck, helping keep the head, neck, and spine in proper alignment while you sleep. This allows neck and shoulder muscles to relax instead of working all night, which can reduce tension, improve circulation, and support the nervous system’s ability to fully rest. The key to good sleep is setting yourself up for success by creating an environment and routine that helps your mind and body relax. Whether it's adjusting your bedtime routine or finding that perfect balance of lighting and temperature, a little bit of planning goes a long way. Happy snoozing! 10-3-2-1-0 Formula: Win Your Mornings and Sleep Better | HuffPost Life What is the 10-3-2-1-0 sleep rule? And does it work? | Homes & Gardens Cervical Sleep Pillow *As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made within 24 hours of clicking my links, and I truly appreciate your support.

I don’t like the word diet —it sounds like a fad, something you do for a while and then drop. Instead, I prefer to call healthy eating a lifestyle , because let’s be real—it’s hard, and it takes a true lifestyle change to make it stick! Let me share how my healthy food journey started. I’ve always loved working out, but I had no idea how to eat properly. Honestly, I worked out just so I could eat junk food—😆 But in 2008, my friend started her career in personal training, and naturally, I became her client. She introduced me to Beachbody and their nutrition plan, the 21 Day Fix. It’s all about balanced, whole foods and portion control—no calorie counting or tracking macros. And let me tell you, that’s when healthy eating really started to make sense for me. Growing up, diets were always about strict rules and counting calories, but none of them ever made me feel great or gave lasting results. It was always about how you look , not how you feel . Thankfully, we’ve moved on from those fad diets. I believe the focus should be on whole-body wellness , not just popping pills or, at this point, injections, for a quick fix. The real solution? Nutrient-rich food. Those three words are the golden key. Imagine it like a video game: you score a coin for finding nutrient-rich food, another for exercising, and before you know it—boom, you’ve unlocked the key to better health! (Can you tell I live with teenage boys?😂) I know I spend a lot of time talking about what not to eat, but let’s also talk about what you can eat! My goal is to help you feel healthier, not to make you feel bad about your food choices—nothing but love here! So, back to the 21 Day Fix: this is hands down one of the easiest ways to get started with healthy eating. With Pinterest, blogs, and the internet at your fingertips, all the info you need is right there. And if you’re sick and tired of dealing with chronic pain and sickness, you’ve got to dig in and educate yourself—no one can do it for you. It’s not easy! Just because I’m small and thin doesn’t mean I’ve got it all figured out—I work on my eating habits every single day . A healthy gut is everything when it comes to staying healthy. Mine was wrecked by toxins, so I totally get what an unhealthy gut can do to you. But I’ve learned (and continue to learn) how to heal it. Healthy eating should be more about feeling good rather than just looking a certain way. Here’s how the 21 Day Fix works: each day, you’re assigned a set number of color-coded containers based on your calorie needs, which are calculated by your weight. The plan focuses on portion control and balanced nutrition, making it easier to reach your goals without feeling deprived or counting every single calorie. The containers break down into: - Green: Vegetables - Purple: Fruits - Red: Protein - Yellow: Carbohydrates - Blue: Healthy fats (like cheese and nuts) - Orange: Seeds and dressings - Teaspoons: Oils and nut butters You can grab these containers on Amazon and follow the guidelines—there are lists of foods to choose from, so really, no excuses! Once you start using the containers to build your meals, you’ll be surprised at how full and satisfied you feel. I know they look small and deceiving at first, but it’s all about creating a balanced meal with the right portions of nutrients. And hey, look at it like a fun challenge: try it for 21 days and honestly, what’s the worst that could happen? Oh no, you might feel better? How awful! 😆 And here's why it’s called the 21 Day Fix—because it takes 21 days to build a habit! Once you learn how to eat right, you’ll find you don’t even need the containers anymore—they’re like training wheels. Before you know it, eating healthy will be second nature, and just like that, you’ve changed your habits! Let me tell you from experience—when I followed the 21 Day Fix, it was the best I’ve ever felt. But, as life happens, things change. We get busy, and sometimes those healthy eating habits slip. And that’s okay! Don’t beat yourself up. Stick with the 21 Day Fix for a solid three months and then start easing up (if you want!), but here’s the thing—you now know how to eat right. So even if you indulge or go off track, you can always fall back on those healthy habits you’ve built! And if you’ve got kids? Trust me, they’ll pick up on these habits too. It’s a win for everyone! Instead of spending hours searching the internet to kickstart your health journey, I’m laying it all out for you—step by step! Step 1: Calculate Your Calorie Target You start by figuring out how many calories you should eat per day based on your weight. Here’s the formula: Example: If you weigh 150 pounds: - 150 x 11 = 1,650 (baseline calorie burn) - 1,650 + 400 = 2,050 (calorie needs with exercise) - 2,050 - 750 = 1,300 calories (daily intake for weight loss) Once you have your daily calorie target, you use that number to determine how many of each color-coded container you get per day. Step 2: Match Your Calorie Range to Containers Here’s a quick breakdown of the container count based on your daily calorie intake: That’s it! Once you’ve figured out your calorie intake, follow your container count for the day, focusing on whole, nutritious foods that fit into each category. Let’s break it down a little more. Here are some examples on how to use the containers. You can choose the foods you want and you can mix it up how you want! As long as you follow the container count for the day! And you’re definitely going to want to meal prep and pre-make meals for each week! Pick one day and make all your meals, try to be consistent! It will be easier to eat healthy if you have your meals ready to go! I use these to-go container s. During the first week of switching to clean eating, it’s totally normal to experience some gas and bloating. When you start eating more whole, fiber-rich foods like fruits, veggies, and whole grains, your digestive system needs time to adjust. The increased fiber can cause gas as your gut bacteria work to break down the new foods. It’s just your body getting used to the healthier stuff, so don’t stress—it should pass in a little while! Be sure to drink plenty of water to help your system adjust and ease any discomfort. And of course, I feel obligated to say, consult your doctor. By that, I mean keep them in the loop—let them know what you're doing and get your bloodwork done beforehand so they can monitor your progress. Show them how real food can be the best medicine to heal your body! Alright, now get your butt moving… literally! The rest is up to you! You’ve got to add in some exercise, but don’t worry—I’m not saying you need to join a gym or dive into hardcore workouts right off the bat. Just keep it simple! In the Army, we stuck to the basics—push-ups and sit-ups. It’s effective, easy to do anywhere, and a great way to get started. So, go for a walk every day, then knock out 10 push-ups and 10 sit-ups. Do that for a week. The next week, challenge yourself to bump it up to 15 or 20. Keep building on what you start—small steps lead to big progress! You’ve got this! And hey, if you need accountability, I’m here for it! Just reach out. I’m only an email or text away. I may have left the military, but the military hasn’t left me! *As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made within 24 hours of clicking my links, and I truly appreciate your support.

Think of your body like a sponge—it collects all the gunk and toxins over time, especially with our modern lifestyles. But just like a sponge, it needs to be wrung out to stay fresh. That’s where exercise comes in! When you move, sweat, and stretch, you’re giving your body a chance to flush out the buildup of toxins. The sweat helps detox your skin (your largest organ, by the way!), while deep breathing during exercise increases oxygen flow, helping your lungs and lymphatic system do their thing. Cardio boosts circulation, pumping toxins out of your organs, and yoga-style twists literally wring out your internal systems, stimulating digestion and your liver—your body’s natural detox machine. When you stretch, twist, and contract your muscles, you’re giving your internal organs a mini-massage, which helps everything move along and gets your body back into its natural rhythm. Think of it as a reset button for your insides! The lymphatic system—crucial for immune function and detoxing—doesn’t have a pump like the heart, so movement is the key. You need to move your body to keep the lymph fluid circulating. That’s why regular exercise isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential for keeping your body functioning at its peak. And don’t forget the mental benefits! Working out is like an emotional detox, too. You get to clear your head while you clear out your body. A win-win! The Lazy (or Busy) Person’s Guide to Sneaky Exercise But who has time for full-on workouts these days, right? Fear not! I’ve got you covered with an exercise plan for the lazy and busy human—also known as 95% of us! You don’t have to live at the gym to sneak in some movement. You can multitask your way to better health without rearranging your entire life (or getting off the couch too often). Here’s how: 1. Deskercise If you’re sitting at a desk, you can still get your body moving! Try some seated leg lifts, toe taps, or even tighten your core for 30-second intervals while working. No one will know you’re secretly flexing your abs while you read emails. 2. Stairway to Fitness Ditch the elevator and take the stairs instead. Each flight is like a mini leg day. Feeling ambitious? Take the stairs two at a time! Boom—cardio and glutes are done in one go. 3. Commercial Cardio Catching up on your favorite show? Use commercial breaks for short bursts of exercise. Knock out some squats, jumping jacks, or planks in those three-minute slots. Bonus: that cliffhanger just got more intense while you get your sweat on! 4. Walk and Talk Got phone calls to make? Walk while you talk. Pacing around your house or doing laps during a 20-minute call adds up fast, and you won’t even realize you’re getting your steps in. 5. Laundry Lunges Yes, you can get those squats in while picking up laundry or groceries. Turn mundane tasks into sneaky workouts. Folding clothes? Do some stretches in between items. Putting stuff away? Lunge across the house while doing it. The laundry never looked so fit! 6. Dance Party Clean-up Blast some music and dance while sweeping, vacuuming, or dusting. You’ll burn calories, break a sweat, and make cleaning a little less soul-sucking. Plus, your arms will get a workout shaking that Swiffer! 7. Stretch in Bed Too lazy to get up? No problem. Start your day with bed stretches. Point and flex your toes, do some lying spinal twists, or stretch your arms overhead to wake up your body before even rolling out of the covers. 8. Calf Raises While Cooking Waiting for the microwave or the oven to do its thing? Perfect. Do some calf raises while your food heats up. Even better if you’re cooking from scratch—it’s like the oven is your workout timer. Little bursts of movement like these add up throughout the day, and the best part? You didn’t have to carve out an hour at the gym. You’re basically stealth-working your way to fitness. So go ahead, wring out that sponge of a body with some sneaky movement—and feel great doing it! Herbal Teas for Liver and Kidney Support During Detox: Sip Your Way to Health Now that we’ve covered how to move your body for detox, let’s not forget the unsung heroes of the process: the liver and kidneys. These organs are like your body’s all-star clean-up crew, constantly working behind the scenes to process and eliminate toxins. But even they can use a little boost sometimes, especially when we ask them to step up their game during a detox. Enter herbal teas—a simple, effective, and soothing way to support your liver and kidneys while they do the dirty work. Below, we’ll break down the best herbal teas for liver and kidney support and how they can help you detox like a pro. Ready to brew up some benefits? Let’s get sipping! Dandelion Root Tea: The MVP of Liver Detox First up is dandelion root tea , the reigning champion of liver detox. While your lawn might think of dandelions as pesky weeds, your liver thinks of them as a spa day. Dandelion root is rich in antioxidants and promotes bile production, helping your liver break down and flush out toxins. But wait, there’s more! This tea also acts as a natural diuretic, meaning your kidneys get some love too, helping you pee out any lingering waste. Think of dandelion root tea as a two-for-one detox special—cleansing both liver and kidneys in one sip. Milk Thistle Tea: Your Liver’s Best Shield Next, we have milk thistle tea —famous for its liver-protecting superpowers. The star ingredient here is silymarin, a compound that helps repair liver cells and reduce inflammation. Not only does milk thistle support liver regeneration, but it also acts as a shield, protecting your liver from future toxin overload. It’s like giving your liver a day off and a suit of armor for the battles to come. Sip on this tea regularly during detox to help your liver regenerate and stay strong. Nettle Leaf Tea: The Kidney Warrior Moving on to the kidneys—meet nettle leaf tea , the kidney’s personal trainer. Nettle is known for being a natural diuretic, helping flush out toxins by increasing urine flow. But it’s not just about detoxing; nettle also comes packed with minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium, giving your body a little extra nourishment while your kidneys work hard. If you need a tea that multitasks as well as your kidneys, nettle leaf is your go-to. Turmeric Tea: Anti-Inflammatory Royalty for the Liver Turmeric has earned its crown as the anti-inflammatory king, but did you know it’s also your liver’s best friend? Turmeric tea helps stimulate bile production, which assists your liver in breaking down fats and flushing out toxins. Plus, the curcumin in turmeric helps reduce liver inflammation and oxidative stress. For an added boost, throw in a pinch of black pepper to improve turmeric’s absorption. Your liver will thank you for the royal treatment! Ginger Tea: A Pep Talk for Your Kidneys Ginger isn’t just great for digestion—it’s also an excellent supporter of kidney function. This spicy root helps increase circulation and aids in detoxification, reducing the oxidative stress your organs experience from filtering toxins. Drinking ginger tea is like giving your liver and kidneys a refreshing pep talk, encouraging them to keep pushing through the detox process with ease. Peppermint Tea: Cooling Relief for Your Liver Peppermint tea does more than just freshen your breath—it’s also a great ally for liver support. When your liver is overworked, digestion can suffer. Peppermint tea soothes your digestive tract and helps bile flow more freely from your liver, making it easier for your body to break down and eliminate toxins. It’s like sending a cool breeze through your insides while your liver gets back to work. Hibiscus Tea: Tangy Detox for the Kidneys Hibiscus tea not only tastes tangy and refreshing, but it’s also a powerhouse for kidney health. Acting as a natural diuretic, it helps flush out the kidneys while supporting liver function by aiding in the breakdown of fats and toxins. Packed with antioxidants, hibiscus gives your detox an extra boost, all while tasting like a tropical vacation. Burdock Root Tea: The Blood-Purifying Powerhouse Last but certainly not least is burdock root tea . Known for its blood-purifying properties, burdock root helps cleanse your body from the inside out, supporting both your liver and kidneys in the detox process. By promoting healthy circulation and boosting kidney filtration, burdock root tea ensures that any lingering toxins get flushed out efficiently. Think of it as your body’s deep clean—inside and out. Final Sip: Keep Hydration on Point While these herbal teas are a fantastic way to support your liver and kidneys during detox, don’t forget the most important ingredient: water! Hydration is key to keeping the detox process running smoothly, so make sure you’re sipping on water throughout the day to keep those organs flushed and happy. Ready to support your detox with a few tasty teas? These herbal powerhouses not only taste great, but they also work wonders behind the scenes, helping your liver and kidneys handle the hard work of detoxing your body. Time to brew, sip, and cleanse your way to optimal health! And if you’re not a fan of hot tea, make it iced! *As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made within 24 hours of clicking my links, and I truly appreciate your support.

Feeling run-down with a cold, headache, or just dealing with simple nervous tension? Your body could be craving some key minerals to bring it back into balance. Hyland’s Bioplasma is here to help! Each little tablet packs a punch with the 12 essential cell salts your body needs to restore equilibrium and kick those symptoms to the curb. Whether it's colds, fatigue, or tension, these flavorless tablets dissolve quickly and won’t upset your stomach—no water required! Now, although homeopathic medicine isn't typically meant to be taken prophylactically, I believe Bioplasma can and should be! With our busy lives, poor nutrition, lack of sleep, and too much screen time, we’re practically inviting colds and fatigue into our bodies. That's why I recommend taking Bioplasma twice a day, just to keep up! Once the school year starts, I notice a lot of families getting hit with colds. It starts in September and doesn’t let up until February. It's the annual onslaught of cold season! While Bioplasma won’t prevent these viruses, it can definitely reduce the frequency and duration of the illness. So, what's the magic behind these 12 mineral homeopathic cell salts? Well, they’re not just any minerals—they are vital to keeping your cells functioning at their best. When your body’s running low on these, you’re left more vulnerable to everyday health annoyances. By replenishing these salts, you help your body stay strong and ready to tackle illness. This whole idea traces back to the 19th century when Dr. Wilhelm Schuessler, a physician and biochemist, discovered that these specific inorganic compounds were essential for a well-functioning body and mind. Fast forward to today, we’ve got a booming industry of mineral supplements, but tissue salts offer a gentle, balanced approach without any unnecessary dosages or side effects. These little gems work on three levels: optimizing your cells' environment, helping you absorb minerals from your diet, and directly supporting your body’s physiological needs. The way they’re made ensures they’re safe for everyone—even pregnant women, nursing mothers, and babies. It might sound a bit like magic to some, but most people who try tissue salts swear by their benefits. So, why not give them a go? After all, there’s really nothing to lose, and you just might feel that balance you’ve been missing! Hyland’s offers 12 individual cell salts, each one designed to address a variety of illnesses. Bioplasma is a blend of all 12, making it a great all-in-one option. But let’s dive into one specific cell salt: #7, Kali Sulph . This one is known for its ability to help with inflammation anywhere in the body, especially when there’s a yellow-green discharge. Now, here’s where you start to learn homeopathy…-think about where we could use this Cell Salt! I personally use Kali Sulph for pimples. Since pimples are essentially inflammation, this cell salt helps reduce them and speeds up the healing process. But that’s not all. Imagine you have a cold, and your nose is running with yellow or green (or maybe both) discharge—this is another perfect situation for Kali Sulph! All the cell salts work similarly, targeting different symptoms and supporting natural healing. If you’re curious to learn more, check out my scrolling class, where I’ll guide you on how to start your journey into natural healing methods! Be sure to check out my other blog posts on cold medicine from Boiron for more tips on staying healthy this cold season! Learn Cell Salts with Joette Calabrese Part 1 Cell Salts Part 2

Not all synthetic wigs are created equal and using heat the wrong way can permanently damage your hairpiece. In this post, I break down the real differences between heat-friendly fibers and regular synthetic fibers and a pro trick that make wigs look less “wiggy” and more natural. Regular synthetic fibers are made from plastic-based materials that are pre-styled at the factory. The curl, wave, or sleek shape you see is literally heat-set during production, which is why these wigs are such reliable wash-and-wear pieces. What this means in real life: • They hold their style extremely well • They bounce back after washing • They do not tolerate direct heat tools Flat irons, curling wands, and blow dryers are a hard no. Even low heat can permanently damage or melt the fibers. However… here’s the good news. While traditional synthetic fibers cannot handle direct heat, they can be safely steamed. Steam is a game-changer for taming frizz, softening stiff ends, and refreshing areas like the nape that tend to get rough over time. Steaming works because it gently relaxes the fibers instead of melting them. When done correctly, it smooths and calms the hair without compromising the style. Steaming is perfect for: • Reducing frizz and fuzz • Softening crunchy ends • Helping hair lay more naturally • Refreshing worn areas This keeps your synthetic wig looking polished, natural, and very much not wiggy. Best for you if: You love low-maintenance, grab-and-go hair but still want a safe way to refresh and smooth your wig when it needs a little love. Heat-friendly fibers are also synthetic, but they are engineered to tolerate heat up to a certain temperature. Usually around 270–340°F depending on the brand. This means you can use heat tools, but with intention and respect. • You can re-curl, smooth, or reshape • You can customize the style • You must use low heat only Heat-friendly fibers feel softer and more human-hair-like, but they do require more maintenance. They can relax, lose curl, or get fuzzy over time if overheated. Best for you if: You love styling flexibility, changing things up, and making a wig truly your own. Which fiber should you choose? Ask yourself these questions: • Do I want zero styling effort? • Am I someone who loves tools and experimenting? • Do I want this piece to last as long as possible? • Am I realistic about maintenance? If you want grab-and-go hair, regular synthetic is your soulmate. If you love flexibility and customization, heat-friendly fibers will make you very happy as long as you treat them kindly. Neither is better. They just serve different lifestyles. 💡 Bonus Tip That Changes Everything Here’s a tip. A real good one. The kind that takes a wig from “Is that a wig?” to “Wait… is that her real hair?!” Dry shampoo. 💕 A very light coating of dry shampoo helps dull that overly shiny finish that synthetic hair can have. Less shine equals less “wiggy.” More confidence. More chef’s kiss hair moments. You do not need anything fancy or expensive. My go-to is Not Your Mothers Clean Freak Unscented Dry Shampoo because: • It has no scent • It doesn’t leave heavy residue • It plays nice with synthetic fibers How to use it like a pro • Hold the can about 12 inches away • Use a very light mist That’s it. Do not go wild. We’re dulling shine, not frosting cupcakes. This tiny step can completely change the realism of your wig and is one of my favorite behind-the-chair secrets. Simple. Affordable. Game-changing.

Ten years ago, like many women, I got breast implants to feel like my pre-baby self again. I didn’t do much research—figured as long as they didn’t rupture, I was good. Wrong. There are hidden dangers doctors and surgeons aren’t telling you, or if they are, it’s not enough to make you think twice. I was an Army soldier—strong, competitive, and healthy. Never been sick or had surgery, so I thought, “What could go wrong?” In March 2013, I got the surgery. A month later, I was hospitalized with a random kidney infection. The doctors were baffled, and I chalked it up to too much beer—totally not true if you know me! But that’s the story I told myself. By month two, I was back to camping and hiking, but that weird kidney thing lingered in my mind. Fast forward to 2016. I hurt my leg while camping and figured it was just the old Army injuries—bursitis, nerve damage, the usual. But my health kept declining. Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue—doctors couldn’t explain it. I tried everything, but nothing worked. Eventually, they said it was all in my head. That crushed me. Friends stopped calling, I struggled to work, and I withdrew, feeling like I was dying with no answers. By 2018, I gave up on doctors. I stopped working out, barely left the house, and lived in pain. I kept blaming my leg, but deep down, I knew something else was wrong. In 2019, I tried yoga and healthy eating again, but new symptoms popped up—food allergies, electrical shocks, ringing in my ears. My skin wasn’t purging toxins, and I even started showing MS-like symptoms. By 2020, I was setting limits just to function, but I still felt off. In 2021, it got worse. Breathing issues, brain fog and panic attacks—I thought I was dying. The allergist found nothing but a grass allergy and wanted to put me on acid reflux meds because she didn’t know what else to do. I wasn’t about to trade one issue for another, so I went full Paleo—gave up coffee and everything acidic. A year later, I felt better but still not right. Then, in March 2022, after I decided to go back to my regular foods and drinks, my body gave me the biggest wake-up call. I woke up in the middle of the night in anaphylactic shock—face swollen, unable to breathe. I was terrified. Doctors had no answers. I was convinced it was all the military vaccines, especially Anthrax. Then, I stumbled on Gulf War Illness and saw a mention of breast implants. Lightbulb moment. I remembered my cousin telling me about a TikTok she saw where a woman was sick from her implants and got better after having them removed. I ignored it at the time because, well, TikTok, but suddenly it all made sense. I looked up Breast Implant Illness, and there it was—everything I was going through. My implants were poisoning me. Once I realized this, I immediately scheduled a consultation for explant surgery, but it was three months away. Well, my body wasn’t going to wait. Within a week of that phone call, I went into another anaphylactic shock. I called my surgeon and said, “I don’t have three months left.” Thankfully, he agreed. He knew the minute he saw me—I was dying. Now, two years post-op, I’m alive again and I feel great! Minus that leg injury! My body is taking time to heal. The chemicals and metals wrecked my gut and body systems. That near-death experience changed everything. I lost faith in traditional doctors and meds, but I learned so much about natural healing. I study homeopathy, functional nutrition, and natural remedies. I’ve become a bit of a detective—I can look at hair and skin and know what’s going on with a person's health. I recognize that our healthcare system is broken, and people aren’t getting the help they need. It’s not just about breast implants anymore—this was just the catalyst! How Breast Implants Wreak Havoc: Let’s talk about leaching —it’s what happens when breast implants break down and start releasing their materials, like silicone, saline, or heavy metals, into your body over time. Sounds fun, right? Here’s how this mess goes down: When you get implants, your immune system sees them as foreign invaders. It immediately builds a protective barrier, known as scar tissue (or a capsule), around them. This is your body’s way of isolating the implant to keep it from causing too much damage. But over time, as the implants degrade, they begin releasing chemicals, silicone particles, and other toxins into your system. When this happens, your lymphatic system jumps into action, trying to pull these toxins out and transport them to your detox organs (like your liver and kidneys) for elimination. But as more toxins leach from the implants, the lymphatic system becomes overwhelmed. It dumps these toxins into your organs, which can’t keep up with the overload. The result? Your organs become clogged and dysfunctional . Your liver, for example, gets backed up and can’t break down and eliminate the toxins fast enough. This creates a vicious cycle where toxins build up in your body, leading to chronic inflammation and immune system dysfunction. If you smoke, drink alcohol, or eat processed foods loaded with seed oils, you're just pouring gasoline on the fire. These habits add more toxins, making it harder for your body to function properly. Now, not only are your implants leaching chemicals, but your lifestyle choices are contributing to the overload. It’s a recipe for disaster. That’s exactly what happened to me. My immune system was so overwhelmed, my digestive system just gave up. My body couldn’t figure out what was harmful anymore, so it stopped accepting food altogether. That’s why after I came off my "cancer patient" diet, my body freaked out! It was already working overtime to purge toxins, so when I reintroduced my regular food, it completely overloaded my system. I became malnourished and, honestly, a skeleton of my former self. This is what happens when your body can't keep up with purging toxins—it just starts shutting down. That’s why it’s so important to listen to your body, cut out the extra toxins, and recognize the warning signs before things spiral out of control. The Lyme Disease Confusion: My blood work also showed I had Lyme disease, but I didn’t treat it because I knew the symptoms were really from the chemicals in my implants. Turns out, the toxins from the implants can mimic Lyme disease in the body! One year after having my implants removed, I got another blood test and—shocker—no more Lyme disease. Proof that the implants were the real culprit all along. The Bigger Picture: Here’s what I’ve since learned: doctors use reference ranges when reading blood work—basically a scale of what’s considered “normal” based on averages across a large population. If your numbers fall within that range, they often dismiss any issues, even if you're barely scraping by. But here’s the problem: “normal” doesn’t mean optimal, and just because your results are in the range doesn’t mean you’re actually healthy. Doctors tend to treat the number, not the patient. That’s why so many women, myself included, are told everything looks fine when we’re far from it. I had no idea that my lab results, while technically "normal," were so close to dangerous levels. It’s wild to think that doctors overlook these nuances, especially when symptoms are screaming at us that something’s wrong. In the end, it all comes down to trusting yourself and listening to your body. We’re taught to rely on doctors and dismiss our symptoms if lab work comes back "fine," but as I’ve learned, those numbers don’t always tell the full story. If something feels off, don’t let anyone—doctor or not—convince you it’s all in your head. Dig deeper, ask questions, and be your own advocate. Whether it’s breast implants, chronic fatigue, or that nagging feeling that something’s just not right, don’t settle for “normal.” Your health is worth fighting for, and sometimes it takes more than a blood test to get the answers you need. And remember, the doctor works for you. Ask questions, challenge their answers—don’t just settle for what they say because they have medical training! And always seek a natural option first! What’s being prescribed to you is only covering the symptoms, which can cause more symptoms, leading to more meds and more health problems. Final Thoughts: Looking back, I can see now that the kidney infection was from the toxins leaching from my implants. But not one doctor ever asked if I had breast implants. Whenever a woman tells me she’s not feeling well, my first question is, “Do you have implants?” That should’ve been one of the first things I was asked. Sure, I didn’t write it down on my medical forms because, at the time, I didn’t think breast implants could cause health problems—it felt like my private business and irrelevant. But after rattling off all my symptoms, you’d think a doctor might ask, “Hey, any chance you have breast implants?” The truth is, not all doctors accept that Breast Implant Illness (BII) is real. That’s why I sought out a surgeon who actually gets it. He’s written award-winning papers on the dangers of implants, and he even talks women out of getting them. That’s a doctor who upholds his oath. He doesn’t just go along with the mainstream narrative; he listens, researches, and prioritizes his patients' health. It’s one of the many reasons I respect him so much. That was just a brief description of the symptoms I experienced with Breast Implant Illness (BII)—I had a laundry list of problems! Pretty much had all of these symptoms listed in the graphic! Many of them I brushed off as just part of the aging process. But now, knowing what I do, I’m horrified that breast implants are still being pushed as safe. I can’t stop advocating about the dangers. Women are being misled, and the FDA and surgeons are in bed together—it’s all about the money. If you’re on Facebook, I highly encourage you to check out the group that saved my life and the lives of my friends. Breast Implant Illness and Healing by Nicole. It’s been a game-changer. Also, if you can, watch the documentary Explant on Paramount and listen to the podcast Killer Boobies . All my research led me to health, and now I’m determined to share it and educate women. If it wasn’t for the women before me speaking out—despite doctors calling us crazy—I probably wouldn’t be here. And that makes me think of all the women who have died because their implants were killing them and no one realized it. This is why we have to keep talking about it. And as I wrap up the longest blog of my life, I hope you see why I’m doing what I’m doing. I’m changing my career with the hope of helping people recognize the pitfalls of our healthcare system and the unrealistic expectations placed on women. We deserve better than being dismissed, misled, and left in the dark about our health. This isn’t just about me—it’s about empowering others to take control of their health and challenge the system that’s failing us.   Can Chemicals in Breast Implants be the Source of Illness? Breast implants, heavy metals & autoimmune disorders: What should be in FDA warnings? | National Center for Health Research

Snacks. Snacks, more snacks! We all love them, right? Trust me, I’m not here to tell you to give them up—but I am here to say, let’s be a little more selective about what we grab. Those brands with seed oils? Yeah, let’s skip those. I know it’s tough; I’m right there with you, practicing what I preach. I wouldn’t be telling you to do anything I’m not doing myself! Now, I get it—your kids are seconds away from a meltdown, and reading labels feels like a full-time job. Believe me, I barely have the time either, but I do it anyway. Why? Because I don’t want to feed my family chemicals, and I know you don’t want that either! So here’s the deal—I’m in this with you. You can always text me with your snack questions, and I’ll guide you through it. My mission? To educate, support, and keep us all snack-happy and chemical-free. I can’t do it for you, but I’m here to be your rock. And hey, if it gets rough, we can totally cry about it together. 🥲 I’ve really fallen in love with Thrive Market—it’s a game-changer. It makes checking ingredients so easy, and the price point, along with the Thrive Cash you can earn, is unbeatable. Plus, it saves your sanity and a dreaded trip to the store. So, grab your favorite herbal tea, settle into your comfiest chair, and get your grocery shopping done from home! Just a quick tip—always read the labels! Even if one product from a brand is seed oil-free, that doesn’t mean they all are. Not sure what seed oils to watch out for? No worries—check out my other blog posts for all the info! Here are my go-to replacements for chips, crackers and bakery items. My kids know the deal: if they don’t like something, no problem! I’ll keep searching until we hit that sweet spot. It’s all about finding the right balance, one snack at a time! I’ve also started making baked goods like cupcakes and brownies using clean, seed oil-free ingredients. Having those treats around helps keep the peace—so my kids don’t end up hating my guts! We’re making healthier choices without sacrificing flavor or fun. Now, we can finally enjoy snacks without worrying about poisoning ourselves or our kids! Can I get a big Amen to that? 🙌 This has been quite the journey—and I’ve only just begun! But let me tell you, it’s worth every second. We all feel so much better in the Scheets house! Healthier snacks, happier vibes! Get 40% off your first shopping trip at Thrive Market!

We now know that it’s not just bad luck or genetics—it’s our food that’s slowly poisoning us. The science is clear. Studies, personal stories, and even recent news reports are all pointing to the same conclusion: the foods we’ve been eating for years are the real culprits behind our health struggles. I don’t buy the idea that heart disease or type 2 diabetes simply “runs in the family.” These conditions are often the result of what’s on our plates, not just what’s in our genes. It’s taken years for the science to catch up, but the data is finally here, and it’s calling for change. I truly believe we can heal. It won’t be easy, but the results will be worth it. It starts with recognizing the problem, then making better choices one meal at a time. We’ve got the power to turn this around. So, let’s unravel the oily mess that is seed oils and their sinister legacy since the 1950s. The Rise of Seed Oils: A Historical Plot Twist Picture this: It’s post-World War II America, and suddenly, saturated fats from butter, lard, and avocado oil get the villain edit. Why? Because researchers started linking these traditional fats to heart disease, which launched the low-fat craze of the 1950s. Enter the food industry’s new BFFs: cheap, mass-produced seed oils like soybean, canola, corn, and sunflower. They were pitched as “heart-healthy” alternatives, with a side of profits. What a plot twist! Metabolic Mayhem: The Health Fallout Fast forward a few decades, and we’re reaping what we’ve sown—chronic illnesses linked to poor metabolic health are skyrocketing. Here’s the kicker: Seed oils are super high in omega-6 fatty acids, which are pro-inflammatory in excess. Studies have connected these oils to a host of metabolic disruptions like obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, and even non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The body just wasn’t built to process this much omega-6, especially when the omega-3s we need to balance them out are MIA from modern diets. Science Doesn’t Lie, But Sometimes It’s Buried Research has repeatedly shown that diets rich in seed oils can lead to higher levels of oxidative stress (a fancy term for internal chaos) and inflammation, which is a hallmark of metabolic syndrome. Studies have gone further to link them to cardiovascular disease, not prevent it as the initial marketing spin suggested. Metabolic health is about so much more than just carbs and sugar; it’s about the quality of fats we consume. What’s the Solution? If you’re looking to fix the mess seed oils have made, here’s your guide: 1. Switch up your fats: Think avocado oil, grass-fed butter, ghee, olive oil, and even lard if you’re feeling old-school. 2. Check the labels: Seed oils sneak into everything, from salad dressings to ‘healthy’ snack bars. 3. Boost your omega-3 intake: Go for fatty fish, chia seeds, flaxseeds, or a high-quality fish oil supplement. Seed oils were marketed as miracle oils, but they turned out to be the ultimate sneaky saboteurs of metabolic health. The sooner we unlearn their lies, the better. What is Metabolic Health, Really? Imagine your body is a well-oiled machine. When it’s working right, it takes the food you eat and turns it into energy, keeps your blood sugar steady, and helps you stay full of pep. That’s metabolic health. You’re basically a top-notch, fuel-efficient car cruising down the highway of life. But when metabolic health starts to tank, it’s like putting the wrong fuel in your car—you start to sputter, slow down, and need more repairs (like doctor visits, meds, etc.). In human terms, bad metabolic health can mean weight gain, low energy, high blood sugar, and even serious stuff like diabetes or heart disease. How Modern Food Messes with Your Cells Let’s talk about what’s really going on under the hood. 1. Inflammation: The Cellular Traffic Jam Your cells are like little workers inside your body, trying to get their jobs done. But when you eat a lot of processed foods—especially those made with seed oils like soybean, corn, and canola—your cells get inflamed. Imagine your cells surrounded by thick, sticky gunk that makes it hard for them to talk to each other or do their jobs. This inflammation messes up everything, making you tired, cranky, and less able to burn energy efficiently. It’s like trying to run a marathon in quicksand. 2. Sugar Overload: The Blood Sugar Rollercoaster You know those foods packed with added sugar? They’re not just spiking your energy—they’re sending your blood sugar on a wild rollercoaster ride. Your body tries to handle this by sending out insulin (like a bouncer managing a wild party). But if the sugar spikes keep happening, the bouncer gets worn out, and your cells start ignoring him. This is called insulin resistance, and it means your body can’t handle sugar as well anymore. So what happens? Your cells can’t convert food into energy efficiently, and your body starts storing more fat. Cue weight gain, tiredness, and a host of other issues. 3. Damaged Mitochondria: Your Cell’s Power Plant is Dying Deep inside your cells, you’ve got these tiny power plants called mitochondria. They’re in charge of turning food into energy. But when you eat a bunch of junk food—especially those sneaky seed oils—your mitochondria start to break down. It’s like trying to use a phone with a dying battery that only charges up halfway, no matter how long you leave it plugged in. You feel more sluggish, your energy drops, and your cells struggle to function normally. 4. Nutrient Deficiencies: The Malnourished Cells Here’s the kicker: most of the processed food we eat is filled with empty calories but very few nutrients. Your cells are starving for the good stuff like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help them run smoothly. So even if you’re eating a lot, your cells are left feeling malnourished, like someone who’s eating cardboard instead of a real meal. How to Fix It: Put the Right Fuel Back In Just like your car runs best with clean gas, your body runs best on clean foods. Here’s how to start reversing the damage: 1. Switch Your Fats: Go for real fats like olive oil, avocado oil, grass-fed butter, or even good old-fashioned lard. Your cells love these more stable, natural fats. 2. Cut Down on Sugar: Try to avoid added sugars where you can—stick to naturally sweet foods like fruits. 3. Eat Whole, Real Foods: Fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, and fish don’t come with hidden ingredients or chemicals. 4. Get Your Nutrients: Focus on foods rich in vitamins and minerals—leafy greens, colorful veggies, nuts, seeds, and clean protein sources. The Bottom Line The food you eat is literally the building blocks of your cells. If you feed them junk, your cells get junky. But the good news? You can start replacing the bad fuel with the good stuff, and your body will respond—your cells will start working better, your energy will come back, and your metabolism will thank you. Basically, treat your body like a classic car: it runs best on premium fuel, not fast-food fry oil! The Oiling of America The Omega-6 Apocalypse Understanding the Essential Fatty Acids Here is a great book to check out, a doctor says what I am saying in doctor language! 😆 Good Energ y

Every day I learn something new, and honestly, it’s making me want to throw a full-blown hissy fit in the middle of the cleaning aisle. Not only are we being poisoned by the food we eat, but now I find out the danger lurks on our clothes and in the detergent we lovingly scrub them with. So, a couple of months ago, I decided to take matters into my own (probably overly ambitious) hands and make my own laundry detergent. I got creative, experimented with a few recipes, and finally found a favorite: Fels-Naptha soap, shredded and pulverized to smithereens using an old food processor with other natural cleaning agents. But guess what? Apparently, everyone else got the same genius idea because the price of Fels-Naptha soared like concert tickets. Cue my full-on temper tantrum. Desperate, I switched to Dreft . I mean, come on, it’s for our sweet, innocent babies! The ones we swaddle in safety and love and would never want to harm! I trusted it, didn’t double-check it on EWG.org because, well, Dreft had minimal ingredients and that angelic, trustworthy branding. Turns out, I got bamboozled. Duped. Hoodwinked. And there’s even a fancy name for it: Greenwashing! Yep, it’s that sleazy marketing move where companies act like they’re saving the planet and your family’s health when they’re actually out here sprinkling chemicals like they’re seasoning a bland salad. Picture this: a product plastered with “natural” in big, leafy letters, probably adorned with a serene waterfall and a unicorn sipping from a dew-kissed stream. Meanwhile, it’s still a chemical cocktail that would make your skin crawl. So, what’s the game plan? First, head over to EWG.org to do your homework and make an informed choice. At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference and what’s best for you and your family. You might have to experiment with a few different non-toxic detergents until you find one that gets the job done, but hey, your health is worth the extra effort. So, let’s talk about the lovely little uninvited guests in our beauty and cleaning products: endocrine disruptors. These are chemicals that, when they sneak onto your skin (or into your body), have a special talent for messing with your hormones. And not in a fun “I’m feeling extra fabulous today” way, but more like “Why am I suddenly feeling like a hormonal teenager again?” The endocrine system is like your body’s command center for hormones, orchestrating everything from your metabolism to mood, growth, and reproductive health. It’s basically the CEO of keeping things in balance. Now, imagine these sneaky chemicals barging in and pretending to be hormones, blocking hormone signals, or throwing a hormone party when nobody asked for one. The result? Potential chaos for everything from fertility to thyroid function and even your stress response. Common culprits include phthalates, parabens, and certain synthetic fragrances that are used in everything from skincare and makeup to laundry detergent and fabric softeners. These chemicals aren’t just chilling on the surface of your skin; they’re getting absorbed and causing a whole circus act inside your body. And for anyone who’s ever tried to manage hormonal issues, you know that’s no joke. So, next time you’re thinking about what’s going on your skin, remember: it’s not just about looking good or having clean clothes. It’s about protecting your body’s hormone harmony and saying a big no thanks to those uninvited endocrine disruptors! I found this 365 Laundry detergent that gets an A rating from EWG and it’s only $10 more than Dreft. I also found a great DIY Laundry detergent . My newest find is from Buff City Soap ! At first I thought it was a little pricey but after using it, I find a little goes a long way and my clothes (more importantly, my smelly boy’s clothes) smell good!! As for fabric softener you can use distilled vinegar. Using distilled vinegar as a fabric softener comes with some fantastic benefits: 1. Naturally Softens Fabric: Vinegar helps break down detergent residue and minerals, making clothes feel softer without the need for commercial fabric softeners. 2. Reduces Static Cling: Say goodbye to the annoying cling that makes your clothes stick together. Vinegar helps reduce static buildup, especially in synthetic fabrics. 3. Eliminates Odors: Vinegar is a natural deodorizer. It neutralizes odors trapped in your laundry, making it perfect for gym clothes, towels, and anything that needs a freshness boost. 4. Preserves Color: Vinegar can help maintain the vibrancy of your clothes. It locks in dye and reduces color fading, so your favorite outfits stay looking great for longer. 5. Eco-Friendly and Non-Toxic: Unlike conventional fabric softeners filled with synthetic fragrances and chemicals, distilled vinegar is completely non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for your skin and the environment. 6. Removes Residue: It works wonders at getting rid of leftover detergent and buildup from previous washes, which is especially helpful if you have sensitive skin. 7. Inexpensive: Vinegar is budget-friendly compared to commercial fabric softeners, making it a cost-effective way to care for your clothes naturally. Just add about 1/2 cup of distilled vinegar to the fabric softener compartment of your washing machine, and let it work its magic. Don’t worry about the vinegar smell — it will disappear once your clothes are dry! I buy mine at Aldi, 128 oz for under $5.

Ever sliced open an aloe vera leaf and rubbed that soothing gel on a sunburn? If you have, then you’ve experienced the centuries-old remedy for minor burns and wounds. But did you know aloe vera isn’t just for your skin? It’s also consumed as juice, packed with some pretty cool health benefits. Drinking aloe vera has a positive effect on your overall health, skin, and digestive system. There’s a growing body of studies and testimonials showing that drinking aloe vera juice daily can help keep the doctor away. And, as someone who drinks it every day, I can personally attest to its amazing health benefits! Aloe vera juice is made by blending the plant’s gel-like insides with water, and it comes with all sorts of health claims. Some say it helps with diabetes, weight loss, and even inflammatory bowel disease. So, what makes aloe vera so special? It’s loaded with bioactive compounds like sterols, which reduce inflammation, chromium for balancing blood sugar, organic germanium for its antioxidant punch, and vitamins A, C, and E, which are powerful protectors for your cells. All these goodies come straight from the plant’s inner gel, giving you a natural boost with every sip! Plus, aloe vera juice is a natural detoxifier! With our stressful lifestyles, pollution, and junk food, we all need to clean out our systems. Aloe helps remove harmful toxins from the body while providing trace elements, vitamins, and minerals that support the body’s detox process. Without proper detoxification, toxins can lead to fatigue, headaches, dull skin, and just that overall lifeless feeling. Aloe vera juice also works wonders for your skin, making it healthy and bright. And—wait for it—guess why? Yep, it’s all about **GUT** health! Your skin, the largest organ in your body, reflects what’s happening inside. When your gut is off, you’ll notice redness, dullness, dryness, and inflammation. I know my skin pays the price when I slack on my aloe routine! And here’s another fun fact: drinking aloe consistently can even help improve cholesterol levels. Who knew? Aloe for lowering cholesterol—mind blown! There are so many reasons to drink aloe every day, it’s pretty much a no-brainer. One reason is its rich content of plant sterols. These natural compounds help lower LDL (the "bad" cholesterol) by blocking its absorption in the intestines. Think of it like musical chairs—plant sterols take the "seats" that cholesterol would normally grab, leaving less room for it to hang around in your body. Over time, this can help reduce your bad cholesterol and support heart health! Plus, aloe’s anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation in the blood vessels, which adds to overall cardiovascular wellness. Aloe is also known for its natural laxative effect, thanks to aloin, a compound found in the plant’s latex. If you’re dealing with constipation, nature’s got your back! Aloe is also packed with anti-inflammatory fatty acids that can soothe digestion, and some studies suggest it might even improve symptoms of IBS. So not only are you getting relief, but your digestive system might get a little extra love too! Now, let’s talk about how to drink it. How much should you take? And how does it taste? 🤢 Honestly, it’s not bad at all! Here’s my trick: I’ve got my trusty 30oz Yeti (and I’m guessing you have one too—unless you’re more of a Stanley cup person, haha). Before I add water, I mix in 4 tablespoons of aloe and squeeze in half a lemon. I cheat a little and use True Lemon Crystallized Packets —basically lemon juice, but in crystal form! Then I just top it off with water, and voila, my daily dose of aloe ! Sometimes, if my stomach needs a little extra support, I’ll add a drop of Ginger Essential Oil . I use Young Living oils, but you can find good ones at Sprouts or Wegmans. I tend to avoid Whole Foods these days—did you know they were bought by Amazon? Yeah, things aren’t as healthy as they seem anymore, and a lot of their stuff comes from China. Just some food for thought! Now, I’ve never had an issue with drinking aloe, but I’ve read that some people might experience side effects like stomach cramps or diarrhea. I encourage you to do your research and start slow. If the worst that happens is a day of diarrhea, well, I’d call that a jumpstart to cleaning out your gut! Hahaha! Aloe vera juice has a lot of potential, but always listen to your body and drink it in moderation. And, of course, I feel obligated to say—consult a healthcare professional before diving into an aloe regimen. But if you do your homework, I truly believe you can heal yourself! I have two aloe plants that I don't use for juicing, but they’re my go-to for skin issues. When one gets too big, I split it, repot it, and gift the extra plant to someone! The best part? Aloe is super low maintenance and thrives even when you forget about it. So, if I give you one and you say you’re not a "plant person," don’t worry—you won’t kill it! It’s practically indestructible! Article-Aloe Benefits NIH Study on Cholesterol in Rabbits NIH Study on Cholesterol in Rats