Parsley Almond Pesto

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Food

Parsley is a great source of folic acid, which is beneficial in preventing heart disease and a necessary nutrient during pregnancy. This spring I have found a garden filled with parsley and have been getting creative with ways to add it to my diet. This recipe is delicious and highly aromatic. It will boost the nutrition and antioxidant content of whatever …

food to help digestion

Best Food to Help Digestion: What to Eat for a Happy, Healthy Gut

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Digestion

If you’ve ever struggled with bloating, sluggish digestion, or an upset stomach after meals, you’re not alone. Surveys show that up to 40% of Americans1 report disruptions to their daily lives due to gut and digestive-related issues. The fact is, you’re not just what you eat—you’re what you can digest, absorb, and use. The good news? Simple, daily practices, like …

Eating, Drinking and Looking Pretty

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Sex Hormones

You read correctly. Eating, drinking and looking pretty all go together. What you eat and what you drink can enhance the way your skin appears. It can also impact the way others perceive your beauty. Eating, Drinking and Looking Pretty A recent study found that within 6 weeks of eating approximately 4 servings of vegetables a day participants were measurably more attractive. …

Food Cravings During Pregnancy

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Pregnancy

Food cravings during pregnancy are not only real, they can also provide insight into what nutrients your body may need. Have you ever found yourself searching the cupboards for a chocolate bar because it would go perfect with cheese? Or perhaps you are thinking a pickle would taste good on top of your ice cream. Chances are, if odd food combinations …

Can Diet Reverse Chronic Disease?

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Food

We all know that good nutrition goes a long way. However, did you know the nutrients found in fresh fruits and vegetables can have profound effects in the management of chronic disease? This video highlights what an optimal diet can do in the case of multiple sclerosis, a chronic degenerative disease. Dr. Terry Wahls used food as medicine to treat …

New Guidelines for Pap Smears

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Wellbeing

New guidelines for pap smears were published on March 14, 2012. What’s changed? The frequency in which the test should be performed has been greatly reduced. Additionally, it is recommended that all women 30+ be screened for HPV (Human Papilloma Virus). New Guidelines for Pap Smears Below is a summary of the new guidelines. Please note that if there are abnormal …

Natural Antibacterial Spray

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Wellbeing

This recipe is simple and can help reduce germs in your home. Thyme essential oil has been shown to be effective against several bacteria, including H. influenza and Staph aureus. Plus, using natural ingredients can help you reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals. Supplies: 12 Drops lavender essential oil 1 Tablespoon thyme essential oil 2 Tablespoons liquid castile soap 2 Cups water …

Is Chocolate Good for Your Heart?

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: What to Eat

Is Chocolate Good for Your Heart? The short answer is yes. Chocolate contains nutrients which have been shown to lower blood pressure and protect against heart disease. But not all chocolate has these benefits. Is Chocolate Good for Your Heart? When looking at the health benefits, dark chocolate wins over white. Dark chocolate contains compounds known as flavonoids. The flavonoids …

how to boost fertility

How to Boost Fertility Naturally: Science-Backed Strategies for Conception 

Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: Fertility

Fertility is one of the most misunderstood aspects of women’s health, often oversimplified into the notion that age is the only determining factor. But fertility is about so much more than just the number of years you’ve lived or eggs you have left! It’s about hormonal balance, metabolic health, lifestyle choices, and even environmental toxins. If you’re trying to conceive …