Search for your topic or question...

In the intricate dance between mind and body, emotional balance emerges as a key player in promoting overall well-being. As a mind-body practitioner with a focus on nutrition, I've witnessed the profound impact that emotional wellbeing can have on hormone balance and gastrointestinal (GI) health. Join me on a journey as we explore the symbiotic relationship between emotional well-being, hormones, and a healthy gut. The Mind-Body Connection: The mind and body are intimately connected, with each influencing the other in a continuous feedback loop. Emotional balance forms the foundation of this interconnectedness, creating a harmonious environment that promotes optimal functioning. When we achieve emotional equilibrium, the body responds by releasing hormones that support various bodily functions, including those related to digestion and gut health. Hormonal Harmony: Emotional balance plays a pivotal role in regulating hormones, which act as messengers that transmit signals throughout the body. Chronic stress, anxiety, or unmanaged emotions can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones, leading to a cascade of negative effects on the body. Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, can wreak havoc on digestive processes and trigger inflammation in the gut. Conversely, cultivating emotional balance through mindfulness practices, meditation, and other stress-reducing techniques helps regulate hormone production. Balanced levels of hormones, such as cortisol, insulin, and serotonin, contribute to improved digestion, metabolism, and a more resilient immune system. Nutrition as a Catalyst: In the pursuit of emotional balance, nutrition plays a crucial role. A well-balanced diet that includes nutrient-dense foods supports not only the body's physical health but also influences neurotransmitters and hormones associated with mood and emotional well-being. Incorporating whole foods, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, provides the necessary building blocks for a healthy body and mind. Moreover, mindful eating practices enhance the mind-body connection. Paying attention to the sensory experience of eating and savoring each bite fosters a positive relationship with food. This mindful approach can reduce emotional eating, a common coping mechanism for stress, and contribute to a healthier GI tract. Gut Health and Emotional Resilience: The gut is often referred to as the "second brain" due to the intricate network of neurons in the digestive system. Emotional imbalance can negatively impact the gut-brain axis, leading to symptoms such as bloating, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Conversely, a balanced emotional state supports a healthier gut environment. Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing exercises and meditation, have been shown to positively influence gut health. These techniques promote relaxation, reduce inflammation, and contribute to a diverse and thriving microbiome—the community of microorganisms residing in the digestive tract that plays a crucial role in overall health. Practical Steps to Achieve Emotional Balance: Mindfulness Meditation: Dedicate time each day to practice mindfulness meditation. This can help you become more aware of your emotions and cultivate a sense of calm. Balanced Nutrition: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, sugars, and artificial additives. Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to release endorphins, the body's natural mood lifters. Exercise is also known to reduce stress and contribute to hormonal balance. Adequate Sleep: Prioritize quality sleep to allow your body and mind to rejuvenate. Sleep plays a crucial role in hormone regulation and emotional resilience. B.E.S.T.: Face-up B.E.S.T. (Bio-Energetic Synchronization Technique) can help identify what negative thoughts are creating stress in your body. These thoughts are keeping your body in state of "fight or flight." This technique resets your nervous system, so it doesn't respond to the thoughts in the same negative way. Craniosacral Therapy: This technique can help decrease stress and promote relaxation in the body by removing restrictions and imbalances in the body. PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Frequency): This non-invasive therapy has been found to help rebuild cells throughout the body. It can enhance blood flow, improve circulation and cellular function throughout the body. Aroma Freedom Technique: This technique uses the power of smell to reset the neural pathways and how your body is responding to things that have happened in the past. Conclusion: As a mind-body practitioner deeply entrenched in the world of nutrition, I've seen firsthand the transformative power of emotional balance on hormones and gut health. By nurturing our emotional well-being through mindful practices and maintaining a nutrient-rich diet, we not only enhance our physical health but also create a harmonious environment where the mind and body can thrive in unison. Embrace the interconnectedness of your well-being and let the symphony of emotional balance guide you towards optimal health.

The holiday season, with its twinkling lights and festive cheer, often serves as a poignant reminder of warmth, togetherness, and joyful celebrations. However, for those grappling with grief, this time of year can cast a long shadow on the path to emotional wellbeing. Grief during the holidays is a complex experience that weaves through the fabric of mental and emotional health, influencing the very essence of our being. Grieving during the holidays intensifies the emotional landscape, amplifying the sense of loss and magnifying the contrast between personal sorrow and societal merriment. The heart, usually a symbol of love and joy, can become a vessel for profound sadness. The ache of missing a loved one may intensify, creating a void that seems insurmountable amidst the festive atmosphere. As the world celebrates, those in grief may find their emotions heightened, making it crucial to acknowledge and validate the complexity of their feelings. The impact of grief on mental wellbeing is profound. The mind, often overwhelmed by waves of sorrow, may struggle to find solace in the midst of holiday festivities. Memories of shared traditions and joyful moments can become poignant reminders of what once was, triggering feelings of isolation and loneliness. Coping with grief during this season demands resilience and self-compassion, recognizing that healing is a process that unfolds at its own pace. The nervous system, intricately connected to our emotional state, is not immune to the influence of grief. The stress response, a natural reaction to loss, can heighten during the holidays, affecting both mental and physical health. Sleep disturbances, heightened anxiety, and a sense of emotional exhaustion are common manifestations. It becomes crucial for individuals navigating grief to prioritize self-care, seeking support from loved ones or professional counselors who can provide a listening ear and guidance through the tumultuous emotional terrain. Digestive health, often reflective of our emotional state, can be impacted by grief during the holidays. Stress and emotional upheaval may contribute to changes in appetite, potentially leading to weight loss or gain. Some individuals might experience digestive discomfort, such as stomachaches or changes in bowel habits. Understanding the intricate connection between emotional and physical wellbeing is essential for those navigating grief, emphasizing the importance of holistic self-care practices. Acknowledging holiday grief and its impact on mental and emotional wellbeing is a crucial step towards healing. Creating space for these emotions, allowing oneself to feel and express them, is an essential part of the journey. Engaging in rituals that honor and remember loved ones can provide a sense of connection, helping to weave their memory into the fabric of holiday traditions. For those supporting someone experiencing holiday grief, empathy and compassion play key roles. Offering a listening ear, acknowledging the pain, and being present without judgment are powerful ways to provide support. Encouraging self-care practices and, when necessary, guiding towards professional help can contribute to the healing process. In conclusion, the journey through holiday grief is a nuanced expedition into the depths of emotion. Understanding its impact on mental and emotional wellbeing allows for a more compassionate approach towards oneself and others. By embracing the complexity of grief during the holidays, individuals can navigate this challenging terrain with resilience, finding moments of solace and healing amidst the shadows of loss. Attend our upcoming Holiday Grief Release Class on Sunday, December 17th, 2023 from 3pm - 4:30pm at our office. Click here to register.

In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and challenges often dominate our daily lives, cultivating a positive mindset is more important than ever. The impact of maintaining a positive outlook extends far beyond mere optimism—it significantly contributes to your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. In this blog, we explore the reasons why fostering a positive mindset at both home and work can be a game-changer for your overall health. 1. Physical Health: Positive thinking has been linked to numerous health benefits, including a strengthened immune system, lower blood pressure, and increased longevity. When you maintain a positive mindset, your body is better equipped to handle stress, reducing the harmful effects of chronic stress on your physical health. By creating a positive environment, whether at home or in the workplace, you’re supporting your body’s ability to stay healthy and resilient. 2. Emotional Well-being: A positive mindset fosters emotional resilience, helping you navigate life’s challenges with a greater sense of ease. At home, this translates to healthier relationships, improved communication, and a more harmonious family life. In the workplace, a positive outlook promotes teamwork, collaboration, and a supportive atmosphere. By embracing positivity, you create an emotional buffer that allows you to bounce back from setbacks and face difficulties with a constructive mindset. 3. Mental Health: The impact of positivity on mental health cannot be overstated. A positive mindset is associated with reduced levels of anxiety and depression. At home, creating a positive environment can contribute to a sense of security and stability, providing a strong foundation for mental well-being. In the workplace, a positive atmosphere can enhance creativity, problem-solving, and job satisfaction, leading to a more mentally fulfilling professional life. 4. Increased Productivity and Performance: Positivity is a catalyst for productivity. A positive mindset at work enhances motivation, focus, and overall job satisfaction. Happy and engaged employees are more likely to be productive and innovative. Similarly, a positive home environment can provide the emotional support needed to excel in personal and professional pursuits. 5. Creating a Feedback Loop: Positivity tends to be contagious. A positive mindset at home can spill over into your work life, and vice versa. By fostering positivity in both environments, you create a powerful feedback loop that reinforces your overall well-being. This interconnected approach enhances the sustainability of positive habits, making it easier to maintain a healthy mindset in various aspects of your life. In conclusion, the benefits of cultivating a positive mindset extend far beyond mere optimism. By consciously fostering positivity at home and at work, you create a foundation for improved physical health, emotional well-being, and mental resilience. Embrace the power of positivity and witness the transformative effects it can have on your overall quality of life.

U.S. National Stress Awareness Day, on every first Wednesday in November — November 1 this year — is 24 hours of reinforcing the fact that you're not doing yourself a favor by stressing about situations you can't control. If you are feeling stressed, reach out to Humfeld Chiropractic and Nutrition Center about solutions and services to manage stress. It’s crazy to think about, but the Holidays are right around the corner, and with the Holidays comes stress. Whether it be shopping for gifts, getting the family together for dinners and parties, the excessive amount of baking, whatever it is, usually the Holidays are stressful for most people. With all the hustle and bustle of the Holiday season, self-care and mental health awareness tend to get lost in all the commotion. Today is National Stress Awareness Day – just in time for our Effects of Stress webinar we are hosting tomorrow evening! Take today to identify and reduce the stress factors in your life and make time to develop a routine to lessen the tension once the Holiday stress begins. Take some time, today, to go for a walk, do some deep breathing, get some exercise or a massage, or take a relaxing bath or shower. Even if you don’t feel stressed currently, taking just a few minutes to practice these and focus on your mental health will greatly help when the stress does pile on.

If you see any of the following ingredients listed in the nutrition label, don't buy the product. Leaving these foods behind on the shelves will give grocery stores and food manufacturers a wakeup call that informed consumers will not purchase foods with the following additives. Ingredients: Coloring agents (blue 1, blue 2, yellow 5, and yellow 6) Found in: Cake, candy, macaroni and cheese, medicines, sport drinks, soda, pet food, and cheese Why the U.S. allows it: We eat with our eyes. "Recent studies have shown that when food manufacturers left foods in their natural, often beige-like color instead of coloring them with these chemical agents, individuals thought they tasted bland and ate less, even when the recipe wasn't altered. This may explain why the use of artificial dyes-the most popular being red 40, yellow 5, and yellow 6-have increased five-fold since 1955. Health hazards: Back in the day, food coloring came from natural sources, such as saffron and turmeric. "Today most artificial colors are made from coal tar, which is also used to seal-coat products to preserve and protect the shine of industrial floors. It also appears in head lice shampoos to kill off the small bugs. Ingredient: Olestra (aka Olean) Found in: Fat-free potato chips Why the U.S. allows it: Procter & Gamble Co. took a quarter century and spent a half a billion dollars to create "light" chips that are supposedly better for you. They may need another half a billion bucks to figure out how to deal with the embarrassing bathroom side effects (including oily anal leakage) that comes with consuming these products. Health hazards: "This fat substitute appears to cause a dramatic depletion of fat-soluble vitamins and carotenoids, robbing us of the vital micro-nutrients many countries, including the U.K. and Canada, have banned it. Ingredient: Brominated vegetable oil (aka BVO) Found in: Sports drinks and citrus-flavored sodas Why the U.S. allows it: BVO acts as an emulsifier, preventing the flavoring from separating and floating to the surface of beverages. Health hazards: Because it competes with iodine for receptor sites in the body, elevated levels of the stuff may lead to thyroid issues, such as hypothyroidism, autoimmune disease, and cancer. BVO's main ingredient, bromine, is a poisonous chemical that is considered both corrosive and toxic. It's been linked to major organ system damage, birth defects, growth problems, schizophrenia, and hearing loss, which explains why it's been nixed in more than 100 countries. Ingredient:Potassium bromate (aka brominated flour) Found in: Rolls, wraps, flatbread, bread crumbs, and bagel chips Why the U.S. allows it: This flour-bulking agent helps strengthen dough, reducing the amount of time needed for baking, which results in lowered costs Health hazards: Made with the same toxic chemical found in BVO (bromine), this additive has been associated with kidney and nervous system disorders as well as gastrointestinal discomfort. While the FDA has not banned the use of bromated flour, they do urge bakers to voluntarily leave it out." Ingredient: Azodicarbonamide Found in: Breads, frozen dinners, boxed pasta mixes, and packaged baked goods Why the U.S. allows it: While most countries wait a week for flour to naturally whiten, the American food processors prefer to use this chemical to bleach the flour ASAP. Health hazards: It's not enough to just ban this product in Singapore. You can get up to 15 years in prison and be penalized nearly half a million dollars in fines for using this chemical that's been linked to asthma and is primarily used in foamed plastics, like yoga mats and sneaker soles. Ingredients:BHA and BHT Found in: Cereal, nut mixes, gum, butter, meat, dehydrated potatoes, and beer Why the U.S. allows it: "Made from petroleum [yummy!], these waxy solids act as preservatives to prevent food from becoming rancid and developing objectionable odors. Health hazards: California is the only state that recognizes the U.S. National Institute of Health's report that BHA is may be a human carcinogen, a cancer-causing agent. Ingredients: Synthetic hormones (rBGH and rBST) Found in: Milk and dairy products Why the U.S. allows it: Gotta keep moo-ving things along. Dairy farmers inject cows with genetically-engineered cow growth hormones to boost milk production by about 10 percent. Health hazards: "Cows treated with these synthetic hormones often become lame, infertile, and suffer from inflamed and infected udders. Humans, who consume these cows byproducts, are in no better shape. "The milk is supercharged with IGF-1 (insulin growth factor -1), which has been linked to breast, colon, and prostate cancers." Ingredient: Arsenic Found in: Poultry Why the U.S. allows it: Big brother FDA permits arsenic in chicken feed to promote growth, improve efficiency in feeding the birds, and boost pigmentation. "The arsenic affects the blood vessels in chickens and turkeys, causing them to appear pinker and, therefore, fresher. Health hazards: The European Union has outlawed the use of arsenic since 1999 and the Environmental Protection Agency classifies inorganic arsenic as a "human carcinogen." Take matters into your own hands by sticking to organic birds only. Ingredients: Diphenylamine (aka DPA) Found in: Apples, apple juice, applesauce, pears, and baby food Why the U.S. allows it: That glossy sheen that gives apples that delicous look to them. Well the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) just deemed this coat, which seals in DPA (a mixture of chemicals that protect the fruit from blackening or browning during long months in storage), as poison. "DPA is what lets us buy apples any time of the year, especially in this country, even though they are harvested in the fall. Health hazards: One of the issues with DPA is that the chemicals can break down and form nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic. Further research is needed to prove that DPA isn't cancer-causing but until then, the EFSA is saying no to DPA. Source: Shape Magazine

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. You see the color pink on many items that contribute to breast cancer research as well as the pink ribbon. Many of us have been or will be affected by this disease because research shows that breast cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in women. There has always been a lot of discussion around estrogen and the impact it can have on our bodies. However in light of more recent research we have learned that among the many different types of estrogen we as women have in our bodies, the estrogen compounds called 2-Hydroxyestrone and 16-Alpha-hydroxyestrone are the most important when it comes to keeping our breasts healthy. These are the good and bad estrogen compounds, and ratio between them is very telling. 2-Hydroxyestrone: This is called the good estrogen. Testing showed that increasing the 2-Hydroxyestrone reduced cancer growth and doesn’t seem to increase risk. 16-Alpha-hydroxyestrone: Typically called the bad estrogen because it seems to increase the risk of breast cancer and some studies even call it a cancer causing agent. All women have these estrogen compounds but the ratio of good to bad estrogen is what is important when monitoring health, rather than the total numbers. An Estronex test is an easy way to find out your estrogen levels from the comfort of your own home. This measurement is learned through a simple urine analysis that can be obtained by Humfeld Family Chiropractic. A low 2/16 ratio can indicate long-term risk for breast cancer as well as other estrogen sensitive cancers. The encouraging thing is many women can increase their ratio by dietary choices. Below are a few ways to increase your ratio naturally: Reduce caffeine intake and smoking Lower an elevated BMI Increase ground flax seed Increase intake of fish oils Increase fruit and vegetable intake Increase cruciferous vegetables including, broccoli, cabbage and Brussels sprouts Many have also found that adding Standard Process “Cruciferous Complete” to be another way to easily increase their cruciferous vegetables. Here are a few things that adding this supplement can help with. Present or past estrogen-dependent cancer (EDC) Family history or increased risk of EDC Low vegetable intake Breast or endometrial dysplasia Endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts Check with Dr. Lisa before adding this supplement to your diet. You may also want to find out exactly where your estrogen levels are and this month our Estronex test is being offered at a special price of $239 (Regularly $325) in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. At Humfeld Family Chiropractic, we want to help you, your family, your friends and your neighbors who are dealing with cancer. Help us fight back! Please tell us your story in the comments below and contact us today to take advantage of Estronex

When you choose to get a chiropractic adjustment, you are likely to improve some area of your body. Many people think that chiropractic is only for neck and back pain. If you have already worked with us in our office, you know that we work with a lot of cases beyond neck and back pain. Humfeld Chiropractic adjustments can offer many benefits other than just relief of chronic pain. Here are the top 10 benefits of adding chiropractic into your lifestyle. Promotes self healing. The body is designed to function on its own if there is no interference. A chiropractic adjustment removes the interference in the nervous, thus promoting self healing in the body. Decreases body stress. When someone is in need of an adjustment, the muscles, tendons, ligaments surrounding a joint become tight. Following an adjustment, the nervous system is functioning closer to 100% and the area surrounding the misaligned joint is more relaxed. As the nervous system functions better, all other systems in the body work better too. Increases immune system function. Misaligned bones can create narrow pathways, making it difficult for the nerves to complete their transmissions smoothly. When the body’s communication system is not working correctly, it affects your immune system’s ability to react timely to attacks. When you seek help from a chiropractor, your immune system functions can be kept optimal with a properly aligned body. Improves sleep. Did you know that your brainstem controls your breathing and also gets the sleep process going? If you have a spinal misalignment or subluxation in the top of your neck, this can affect your sleep. Improves digestion. Nerves in your body are running through the spine that go to your stomach and your digestive system. With chiropractic care, these nerves are stimulated to help the digestive tract function properly. Improves athletic performance. Chiropractic care can result in boosted coordination for an athlete. Better body coordination means that athletes can be more agile, which leads to better and higher scores in tournaments and competitions. When an athlete has a properly aligned spine, they decrease their chances of injury. Reduces dependence on medications. A chiropractic adjustment helps to remove the interference in the nervous system. This allows the innate intelligence of the body to help your body function the way it was designed to without the use of medications. Reduces allergies & asthma. Spinal misalignment can lead to your cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) not draining properly, resulting in intracranial pressure. Also, a misalignment or subluxation at the top of the neck in the brainstem area can result in breathing changes. This is because this area of your central nervous system is tied to your other body systems, including your respiratory and immune system. Reduces chronic pain. Neck misalignment can result in pain in the neck, shoulders, arms, hands and upper back. Misalignment in the lower back can result in low back pain, hip or leg pain or even even sciatica. By correcting this misalignment, patients can see an improvement in their overall pain levels. Helps with behavioral & learning disabilities. ADD (attention deficit disorder) and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) are not psychological illnesses. They are actually neurological conditions that start in the central nervous system. This means that the key to restoring better functionality for children and adults alike who suffer from these conditions is to help the central nervous system function optimally. Chiropractic adjustments help your central system do this! What you can do to start living the chiropractic lifestyle. If you are ready to add chiropractic back into your lifestyle, please call our office today to schedule an appointment. Your central nervous system is wanting to function at 100% and chiropractic can help achieve this!

School is here and parents ask the question: How much should my child be carrying in their backpacks? Backpack safety for physical wellness is rarely considered by students. We have never been told to “lighten the load” in our backpacks or have been trained to consider the weight on the backs of children as a potential danger. In one study, it was determined that children should carry no more than 10-15%, up to 20% of their weight. Another study used a formula: child’s weight x .15 = maximum backpack weight. For example: A 50-pound child should carry a maximum of 7.5 pounds 100-pound child should carry a maximum of 15 pounds 150-pound child should carry a maximum of 22.5 pounds The research studies indicate that physical problems such as back pain, neck or shoulder discomfort, or increased fatigue. If the backpack is worn over only one shoulder, the body weight is unevenly distributed, and this may cause upper or lower back pain or neck and shoulder strain. Safety Tips Backpacks with wider straps that are cushioned are best to avoid tingling in the arms Backpacks that are full can unintentionally harm others when the student turns abruptly Students can harm themselves if they trip over large backpacks Heavy backpacks cause imbalances in weight and the student needs to lean forward to walk and this is improper body posture By walking with a backpack too heavy, the student is at risk of bumping into others or falling from losing their balance The backpack needs to be carried on both shoulders for safety to shoulders, neck, and back Tighten the straps so the backpack rests two inches above the waist Choose a backpack that is lighter in material If the backpack has a waist belt, use it to evenly distribute the load Pack the heaviest items close to the center of the backpack

Ingredients: 1 cup diced fresh peaches 1 cup full fat coconut milk 1 1/2 cup coconut cream 1/2 cup honey pinch of salt 1 tsp vanilla extract 1-quart ziplock freezer bag 1-gallon ziplock freezer bag ice cubes 1/2 cup of course salt or table salt. Directions: In a medium mixing bowl, add all ingredients and stir till well mixed. Pour mixture into quart bag and seal shut Add half the ice and salt to the gallon bag. Set the quart bag inside and add the remainder of the ice. Shake the bag vigorously for 5 minutes. Serve immediately or put in the freezer and eat later for firmer ice cream. *Regular milk and cream can be substituted for coconut milk and cream. * Swap out the peaches for your favorite ingredients or toppings to make a variety of different ice creams!

Grilled Peaches with Homemade Ice Cream 2-4 fresh ripe peaches Honey Sea Salt Cut peaches in half and remove the pits. Lightly brush the flesh of the peaches with olive oil to prevent them from sticking to the grill. On medium-high heat, grill the peaches for 6-8 minutes. (For gridline grill marks, cook halfway and rotate the peaches 90 degrees) Serve with Homemade Peach Ice Cream. For vanilla ice cream, omit the chopped peaches and add an extra tsp of pure vanilla extract. Drizzle with honey and a pinch of course sea salt. Serve Immediately

We strive to live a cleaner more sustainable life. Here is a great recipe which is natural and safe for you and the environment! Enjoy and pass on to all of your loved ones. If you’d like to learn more about how to use essential oils or would be interested in buying our therapeutic grade essential oils from Young Living, contact our office directly. All-Natural Bug Spray with Young Living Essential Oils Fill an 8 oz spray bottle with 4 oz distilled water Add 4 oz of witch hazel Add 10 drops of Y.L.Thieves oil Add 10 drops of Y.L. Purification oil Add 10 drops of Y.L. Peppermint oil Shake and spray! Office phone: (507) 333-5388

Patriotic Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing: 4 cups baby spinach 4 cups mixed lettuce 1 cup fresh raspberries and/or blackberries 1 ½ cups fresh chopped strawberries 1 cup fresh blueberries ½ cup of Feta cheese crumbles ½ cup sliced almonds and/or walnuts ½ cup sunflower seeds *Layer all ingredients starting with the greens. Toss with dressing and serve. Poppy Seed Dressing: 2/3 cup Olive oil ½ cup white vinegar or raspberry vinegar ½ cup pure maple syrup 1 tsp. poppy seeds 1 tsp. dried mustard 1 tsp. salt *Mix all ingredients and shake well before serving.

It’s summer, which means days are spent outside under the sun. Being out in the hot weather takes a lot out of our bodies, including our electrolytes. Instead of reaching for Gatorade that has excessive amounts of sugar and other ingredients our bodies really don’t need, try making your own sports drink! They’re quick, easy, and you probably have all of the ingredients right at home already! Orange Gatorade: Ingredients: 1/4 cup fresh squeezed organic orange juice 1 1/2 -2 cups fresh water (depending how strong you want the flavor) 1/8 tsp. celtic sea salt 2 tbsp. Stevia (to taste) Lemon-Lime Gatorade: Ingredients: 1/4 cup fresh squeezed organic lime juice 1/4 cup fresh squeezed organic lemon juice 1 1/2 – 2 cups fresh water (depending how strong you want the flavor) 1/8 tsp. celtic sea salt 2 tbsp. Stevia (to taste) Lemon-Orange Gatorade: Ingredients: 1/4 cup fresh squeezed organic lemon juice 1/4 cup fresh squeezed organic orange juice 1 1/2 – 2 cups fresh water (depending how strong you want the flavor) 1/8 tsp. celtic sea salt 2 tbsp. Stevia (to taste) Directions: Toss everything into a blender and blend until desired consistency. Pour yourself a glass, drop in some ice cubes and enjoy!

As we continue into the summer months and warm weather, many will be using a variety of products designed to control weeds and protect against both the sun and bugs. But the million-dollar question, do you know what is in these products? With millions of products on the market, made in mass quantities, it’s hard to know which ones are the best. We are hoping to help you choose better products for a better life and essentially a healthier you! Use This Not That: Say NO to CHEMICALS and YES to YOUNG LIVING Sunscreen: Many skin protectant products, although are banned by the FDA from using Benzene, still contain ingredients that are harmful to not only the user but also to wildlife and the reefs. Many of these ingredients can be found here on the Young Living Dirty Dozen. We recommend using Mineral Sunscreen from Young Living for your summer sun Protection! Click here to order Mineral Sunscreen from Young Living. Mineral Sunscreen from Young Living Comes in SPF 10 and SPF 50. The main ingredients are Zinc oxide, Beeswax, Coconut oil, Lavender, Myrrh, and Carrot seed essential oils. Reef safe Dermatologist tested High sun protection Recommended as an effective broad-spectrum sunscreen Non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula If used as directed with other sun protection measures, decreases the risk of skin aging caused by the sun. 2. Bug Repellent: The chemicals used most often in insect repellent products are DEET, Permethrin, Pyrethroidsm, and Cyfluthrin. (CLICK HERE to read about each chemical and its effects.) Although many argue the effects from the chemical components outways the possibility of contracting a blood-borne illness, i.e. The Zika Virus, West Nile Virus, there are safe alternatives on the market. Young Living has its own chemical-free insect repellents. Several pure essential oils, as well as plants, can be used as a natural bug deterrent. Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Lemon Grass, and Citronella essential oils to name a few. Check these natural DIY recipes below. Outdoor Spray Recipe: 2oz Witch Hazel 2oz Distilled Water 20 Drops Lemon 20 Drops Thieves 20 Drops Rosemary 20 Drops Citronella Mix all ingredients together in a 4oz bottle. Shake before each use. Spritz yourself and plants as needed to deter insects. Tick Spray: 2oz White Vinegar 10 drops Lemon 10 drops Eucalyptus Radiata 10 drops Citronella 10 drops Peppermint Mix in a 2oz spray bottle. Mist ankles, the base of the neck, and hair when hiking or in grassy areas. Fly Deterrent: 3 drops Cloves 5 Drops Eucalyptus Radiata 5 drops Lavender 1 cup Water Once mixed together, you can spray as needed. 3. Weed Killer: The most commonly used weed killer is Round Up. Its main ingredient is glyphosate, which is a known carcinogen. The maker of Round Up, Monsanto, has paid out over $10 billion in claims to people suffering the damaging effects of this toxic weed killer. Instead of using Round Up, here is a healthier, cleaner version using Young Living Cinnamon Bark essential oil. Homemade Weed Spray 25-50 drops Cinnamon Bark essential oil 4 oz distilled Mix together in a 4 oz. spray bottle. Shake before each use and spray on roots and leaves as needed. 4. Electrolyte Replacement: Gatorade and Powerade were designed to help athletes improve their performance and endurance by replacing fluids, carbohydrates, and electrolytes. The added to sugar or artificial sweeteners added to Gatorade or Powerade don’t help your overall health. Many of these sports drinks have citric acid and food dyes in them. The citric acid acid can erode teeth enamel and increase your chance of developing cavities. Food dyes can be carcinogenic and cause hypersensitivity issues in people. Homemade Sport Drinks CLICK HERE to access our recipes for homemade sports drinks.

With summer underway and the temperatures rising, we hope you are getting out in the sunshine and having fun! In Minnesota our summers are short-lived and never taken for granted, we live for those beautiful summer evenings at the beach, out on the lake, or camping with friends and family. With that said, we still need to be conscious of playing safe and protecting our skin from damaging UV rays. Here is a safe and natural recipe for sunscreen that is sure to protect your skin but also give it optimal hydration! We use therapeutic grade essential oils in ours to add fragrance and to uplift the spirits! Give it a try and pass on to your loved ones. If you have any questions regarding this recipe or Young Living essential oils, please contact us directly at: Humfeld Chiropractic & Nutrition Center at: (507) 333-5388 or email at: info@humfeldchiropractic.com Ingredients: ½ cup almond (SPF 5) or olive oil ¼ cup coconut oil (natural SPF 4) ¼ cup beeswax 2 Tablespoons Zinc Oxide (SPF 2-20) (Not absorbed by the skin but be careful not to inhale the powder). Up to 1 teaspoon Red Raspberry Seed Oil– optional (SPF 25-50) Up to 1 teaspoon Carrot Seed Oil– optional (SPF 35-40) 2 tablespoons Shea Butter – optional (SPF 4-5) 10-15 drops of Essential Oil, Lavender is always a nice fragrance. (Do not use citrus oils as they are photosensitive and will cause sunburn) Instructions: Combine ingredients except zinc oxide in a pint sized or larger glass jar. Fill a medium saucepan with a couple inches of water and place over medium heat. Put a lid on the jar loosely and place in the pan with the water. As the water heats, the ingredients in the jar will start to melt. Shake or stir occasionally to incorporate. When all ingredients are completely melted, add the zinc oxide, stir in well and pour into whatever jar or tin you will use for storage. Small mason jars (pint size) are great for this. It will not pump well in a lotion pump! Stir a few times as it cools to make sure zinc oxide is incorporated. Store at room temperature

There is a popular belief that parasites are more active during a full moon, and that cleansing the body of parasites during this time can be particularly effective. CellCore, a health supplement company, offers a product called Para Kit which is specifically designed to cleanse the body of parasites. Parasites are more active during the full moon due to changes in the behavior of their hosts and the availability of food sources. So, how does this relate to parasite cleansing? The idea is that by targeting parasites during their peak activity, we can effectively eliminate them from the body. This is where products like Para Kit come in. Para Kit is a combination of various natural supplements designed to cleanse the body of parasites. It contains ingredients such as black walnut, clove, and wormwood, which have been shown to have anti-parasitic properties. According to CellCore, the full moon is the ideal time to begin a parasite cleanse because parasites are most active during this time. By starting the cleanse during the full moon, the body is better equipped to eliminate parasites, as they are more vulnerable and easier to target. Choose whether you are going to do a 3, 5 or 7-day Full Moon Challenge. Will you increase your focus for one day, two days, or three days before and after the full moon? Including the actual day of the full moon that will add up to either 3, 5 or 7 days. The 5-day and 7-day Full Moon Challenges aren't recommended for people who are brand new to cleansing. Immediately jumping into high doses of the supplements in the Para Kit may cause unwanted reactions to naturally promoting the body’s ability to detoxify. Click here and use patient direct code of O1CbmtDv to order your Full Moon Cleansing Kit

Restore gut health with the Super 7(R) Action Plan. Restoring gut health is a crucial step toward improving immunity, reducing systematic inflammation, and reducing the risk of autoimmune disease. Talk to Humfeld Chiropractic and Nutrition Center in Minnesota to learn more. Step 1: Reset Stop eating the Standard American Diet. Eat a plant-forward anti-inflammatory diet, such as the Mediterranean Diet. Good Fats Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Fatty Fish Nuts Whole Grains The cornerstone of the diet is being low in processed carbohydrates. Step 2: Remove Remove food sensitivities. If nutrition testing shows you are sensitive to a food, remove it from your diet now but not necessarily forever. Remove processed foods, sugar, dairy, and gluten. No GPS (no gluten, processed foods, and sugar) No DNA (no dairy, nicotine, and artificial sweeteners) Remove unwanted pathogens and liver toxins. A liver detoxification program can help get rid of accumulated toxins and reduce the symptoms of toxic build up. Step 3: Replace Replacing and augmenting vital digestive chemistry allows you to improve digestion and absorption. Shortages of bile, stomach acid, and pancreatic enzyme can throw the microbiome out of balance. Replenishing these supplies can make a big difference. Step 4: Regenerate There are nutrients available to help regenerate and repair including: L-glutamine for regenerating the mucosa Omega-3 fatty acids for calming inflammation and rebuilding the epithelial cell wall. A collagen supplement for supporting your digestive tract as it heals Ginger for stimulating the production of stomach acid, bile, and pancreatic enzyme. Step 5: Re-Inoculate Your microbiome is healthy when your gut bacteria is 80-85% beneficial species and 15-20% unfavorable species. We can use high-quality probiotics and prebiotics to help restore the beneficial bacteria and get rid of the unfriendly ones. Step 6: Reintroduce and Retest Once symptoms improve, foods can be added back into your diet. Continue to avoid processed food and continue to avoid GPS and DNA. Retest for food sensitivities. Step 7: Retain the Gains Continue sticking to this healthy diet, take appropriate supplements, exercise, get enough sleep, and reduce stress. These are critical to retaining the improvements. Dietary Improvements Long-term glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate intake may counteract symptomatic spinal disc degeneration. Other helpful supplements are: Melatonin Vitamin D ETArol Hyaluronic Acid Avocado/Soybean Unsaponifiables Nettle Leaf

Summer is right around the corner, which means days will be spent grilling outside, kids will be at the pool, and there won’t be a care in the world; except for what you are putting into your body. At Humfeld Chiropractic and Nutrition Center in Faribault, we want to share how your favorite soft drink is affecting your body. It’s easy to grab a refreshing soda; but, what is all that carbonation and sugar doing to your body? As the rise in numbers of those grabbing soft drinks as a choice of beverage goes up, so do the number of new side effects. Thousands of people are being admitted into hospitals daily because of over consumption of carbonated, sugary beverage drinks. Asthma, tooth enamel decay, heart disease, sugar overload, kidney issues, reproductive issues, osteoporosis, and obesity are all leading causes and diseases associated with drinking these beverages. The effects of drinking just one can of soda are almost immediate. After 20 minutes, you have consumed 100% of your recommended daily intake of sugar. Within those 20 minutes your blood sugar spikes, causing your body to trick the liver into converting all sugars into fat. Within 40 minutes, the absorption of caffeine is complete, and the rest of your body responds to that. Meaning, your pupils dilate, your blood pressure rises, and your livers dump even more sugar into your bloodstream. This is all within the first hour… Over time, a couple of sodas a day will start to affect every part of your body including your brain, heart, lungs, and teeth. A study published in the journal Neuroscience found that excessive amounts of added sugar can interfere with a large amount of your neurological processes, affecting mainly your memory making. With inadequate neuroprocessing levels everyday cognitive tasks like learning and memory become more difficult. In 2012, a study was conducted at Harvard University that found that those who drank only one can of soda a day drastically increased their risk of chronic heart disease. Compared to those who drink little to no soda, those who drank the most were 20% more likely to have a heart attack. Soda consumption has also been linked to risks of pulmonary complications such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD). Your body works off a “dose-response” relationship, meaning the more soft drinks one consumes, the higher the chance of developing certain diseases. Aside from the possibility of developing diseases within your: brain, heart, and lungs; drinking these sugary / carbonated beverages strongly damages your teeth. With every sip, sugar combines with the bacteria in your mouth, giving rise to acid. The acid from these drinks weakens the enamel on your teeth, and overtime leads to bacterial plaque and cavities. The same goes for diet soda as well, you may think you are taking away all the sugar which may be true, but you are adding in worse additives and preservatives that make your drink sugar free and low calorie, making the effects on your body the same, if not worse. So, this summer, instead of reaching for your usual soda of choice, grab that fresh fruit juice, or even a glass of water with a few drops of citrus essential oils to give you that refreshing flavor you are craving, without the harsh side effects and potential life threatening diseases.

A healthier cherry pie recipe from Humfeld Chiropractic and Nutrition Center in Faribault, MN. Ingredients For the crust 4 cups almond flour 2 egg, lightly beaten 2 tbsp coconut oil pinch of salt ½ tsp cinnamon 2 tbsp raw honey For the filling 4 cups frozen cherries 2 ½ tbsp arrowroot flour 2 tbsp water 2 tsp lemon zest ½ cup honey For brushing 1 tbsp almond milk Directions In a large bowl, place the almond flour, salt, coconut oil, and eggs. Mix well to combine. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. To make the filling, mix the arrowroot flour with 2 tbsp of water and set aside. Place the rest of the ingredients in a pot over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes. Add the arrowroot mixture, mix well and cook for another 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat and set aside. Preheat oven to 350°F. Divide the dough into 2 balls. Press one ball into a greased 8-inch pie dish. Pierce the bottom of the crust all over with a fork. Bake for 10 minutes then remove from the oven. Place the second ball of dough between two pieces of greased baking paper and using a rolling pin to roll it into an 8-inch round. Chill it in a freezer for 30 minutes. Remove the crust from the freezer and using a small cookie cutter or pastry tips, cut holes all over the crust or cut into strips to weave. Transfer the cherry filling to the dish with baked pie crust. Place the flattened crust on top of the pie and seal the edges. Brush top crust with almond milk and bake for 30 minutes or until golden. Cool at room temperature and serve.

Twelve year old Emily* was experiencing excruciating back spasms when her mother brought her in for a consultation. Emily did not have any history of back pain nor had she been in an accident or traumatic physical event that would account for the pain. Emily’s mother was very insightful in recognizing that her daughter’s pain could be the result of another kind of trauma. Emily’s parents were divorced and she was about to go spend a week with her dad. On previous visits, her dad would force her to bike for 5 – 10 miles at a time; a distance that pushed her endurance beyond its limits. In anticipation of visiting her dad, Emily experienced feelings of fear about having to bike that distance again, and that fear grew and manifested itself in her lower back. The pain was so severe that Emily’s mom was considering taking her to the emergency room. Fortunately, she was familiar with the mind-body techniques that I utilize and brought Emily in for B.E.S.T. (Bio-Energetic-Synchronization Technique) treatment. In Emily’s case, fear was causing her sympathetic nerve system to keep her in “Fight or Flight” mode, creating the muscle tension in her back. She needed help to identify the real cause of her pain and release that pressure. In addition to muscle spasms, over stimulation of the sympathetic nerve system can cause elevated blood pressure, difficulty breathing, digestion problems and insomnia. It’s like having your nervous system stuck on “GO.” Putting the brake on the physical responses to stress starts with identifying the stresses, providing a release, and learning better ways to handle the stress in the future. Stress can manifest itself in our bodies in many ways whether it’s emotional stress from anticipating a fearful or unpleasant event, from the loss of a loved one, from a divorce or even ingesting foods that we are sensitive to. There are natural ways to find relief and better habits that enhance health without the need for drugs. If you or someone you know is weighed down with health issues that have no apparent cause, please contact me for a consultation for natural healing with BEST, Nutrition Response Testing or Chiropractic care. *Names are changed to protect patient confidentiality

Easter is less than two weeks away and we are excited to share a literal outside-the-box recipe for coloring your eggs in a natural, non-toxic way. Not only will you be avoiding toxic chemicals/coloring additives, you will be using biodegradable and common items from your kitchen. Happy Easter from Humfeld Chiropractic & Nutrition Center! Pink Dye 2 C. Water 2 C. Peeled, grated beets Vinegar: 1 Tbsp. per cup of liquid that remains after simmering veggies and water. Instructions Boil until water is a deep red/purple. Strain veggies out of water, keeping the water in a bowl or jar with a lid. Add vinegar when the liquid is cooled. Dip the eggs, let them dry, and repeat until desired color is attained. Orange Dye 2 C. Yellow Onion Peels Enough water to cover peels by about 1 inch. Vinegar: 1 Tbsp. per cup of liquid that remains after simmering peels and water. Instructions Boil until water is a deep yellow/orange. Strain veggies out of water, keeping the water in a bowl or jar with a lid. Add vinegar when the liquid is cooled. Dip the eggs, let them dry, and repeat until desired color is attained. Yellow Dye 2 C. Water 1 Tbsp. Turmeric 2 Tbsp. Vinegar Instructions Mix together. Dip the eggs, let them dry, and repeat until desired color is attained. (Will give a vibrant yellow on white eggs, and deep gold on brown eggs.) Green/Blue Dye 2 C. Shredded Purple Cabbage Enough water to cover cabbage by about 1 inch. Vinegar: 1 Tbsp. per cup of liquid that remains after simmering peels and water. Instructions: Boil cabbage until a deep blue/purple color is attained. Strain veggies out of water, keeping the water in a bowl or jar with a lid. Add vinegar when the liquid is cooled. Dip the eggs, let them dry, and repeat until desired color is attained. (Will give a green color on brown eggs, and blue color on white eggs.)

Our skin is our largest organ and yet one that is often most overlooked when it comes to our health. We put things on our skin constantly throughout the day whether it is in cosmetic form, antiperspirant, lotion, and soap. There are also other things that come into contact with our skin such as cleaning products, soaps and detergents. In some cases our absorption rate is 100% and depending on where on the body these personal care products are applied, it can happen fast! If we are not careful, we can have chemicals entering our body at an alarming rate. Here is a fantastic list of ingredients to watch out for taken from Dr. Frank Lipman M.D. Revive: Stop Feeling Spent and Start Living Again DEA (Diethanolamine), MEA (Monoethanolamine), TEA (Triethanolamine): These three chemicals are hormone-disrupting chemicals that can form cancer-causing agents—research indicates a strong link to liver and kidney cancer. They are commonly found in shampoos, soaps, bubble baths, and facial cleansers. Phthalates and Parabens: Banned by the European Union in 2003, phthalates and parabens are a group of chemicals commonly used as preservatives in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. They keep hairsprays sticky and bacteria and fungus out of things like nail polish and perfume. Both have demonstrated themselves to be carcinogenic and particularly linked to breast cancer. FD&C Color Pigments: Most FD&C color pigments are made from coal tar and studies show that almost all of them are carcinogenic. Many of these pigments cause skin sensitivity and irritation, or even oxygen depletion in the blood. FD&C Red #4 is no longer available for use in foods because of a known threat to the adrenal glands and urinary bladder. Fragrance: “Fragrance” is a euphemism for nearly 4,000 different ingredients. Most “fragrances” are synthetic and are either cancer-causing or otherwise toxic. Exposure to fragrances has been shown to affect the central nervous system. “Fragrances” are found in most shampoos, deodorants, sunscreens, skincare and body care products. Imidazolidinyl Urea and DMDM Hydantoin: These are formaldehyde donors, which means that they are derivatives of the formaldehyde, which is what scientists and morticians use to preserve corpses and body parts. Remember dissecting frogs in school? These chemicals are linked to allergies, chest pain, chronic fatigue, depression, dizziness, ear infections, headaches, joint pain, loss of sleep, and can trigger asthma. They can weaken the immune system, and—surprise surprise—cause cancer. Imidazolidinyl Urea and DMDM Hydantoin are used in skin, body and hair products, antiperspirants, and nail polish. Quaternium-15: Quarternium-15 commonly causes allergic reactions and dermatitis, and breaks down into formaldehyde. Quarternium-15 is used as a preservative in many skin and hair care products. Isopropyl Alcohol: Isopropyl Alcohol is used in hair color rinses, body rubs, hand lotion, and aftershave lotions as well as in your car’s antifreeze and shellac! Scientists believe that it has the ability to destroy intestinal flora, leaving the body’s major organs open to parasites, and thus to cancers. Beyond attacking the intestinal flora, isopropyl alcohol can cause headaches, dizziness, mental depression, nausea, vomiting, and coma. Mineral Oil: Mineral oil is a petroleum derivative that coats the skin like Saran Wrap, which prevents the skin from breathing, absorbing, and excreting. It also slows the skin’s natural cell development, causing the skin to age prematurely. Note that baby oil is 100% mineral oil—and 100% bad for your baby’s sensitive skin. PEG (Polyethylene Glycol): PEGs are most commonly used in spray-on oven cleaners and in many hair and skin products. PEG’s main fuctions are to dissolve oil and grease. Thus, on the body, they take the protective oils off the skin and hair, making them more vulnerable to other toxins. Propylene Glycol: Propylene Glycol is the active ingredient in antifreeze. It is also used in makeup, toothpaste, and deodorant. Stick deodorants have a higher concentration of PG than is allowed for most industrial use! Direct contact can cause brain, liver, and kidney abnormalities. The EPA requires workers to wear protective gloves, clothing, and goggles when working with it. And yet, the FDA says we can put it in our mouths! Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate are the most toxic ingredients on this list. When used in combination with other chemicals, they can form nitrosamines, a deadly class of carcinogen. They are used to clean engines, garage floors, and at car washes. AND still the most popular ingredients for makeup, shampoo and conditioner, and toothpaste. Exposure causes eye damage, depression, diarrhea, and many other ailments. Triclosan: Triclosan is synthetic antibacterial ingredient used in soaps and disinfectant gels that has been compared to Agent Orange. The Environmental Protection Agency registers it as a pesticide, highly toxic to any living organism. It is also classified as a chlorophenol. In other words, it is in a cancer-causing chemical class. Triclosan disrupts hormones, can affect sexual function and fertility, and may foster birth defects. Triclosan has been linked to paralysis, suppression of the immune system, brain hemorrhages, and heart problems. It is widely used in antibacterial cleansers, toothpaste, and household products. Talc: Talc has been linked to ovarian and testicular cancer. It can be found in makeup, kids and adult powders, and foundation. Petrolatum: Petrolatum is a petrochemical that contains two well-known carcinogens: Benzo-A-Pyrene and Benzo-B-Fluroanthene. As you might imagine from a petroleum derivative, petrolatum prevents the skin from breathing and excreting. What can we do? First learn what is in your personal care items. Second, learn what those ingredients are and how they affect your body as well as the health of your loved ones. Third, find an alternative when necessary. I personally love the products from Nature Rich in Maple Grove, MN. They have soap, shampoo as well as bath products and lotions. Their story is one built out of necessity when the wife learned she had cancer. They were unable to find products that they felt comfortable with so created a line and filled the need. Please take a moment and share this article with someone you care about. Post it on your social media. The more knowledge that is out there, the more people will call for alternatives. And as always, schedule an appointment with me to learn how your body is responding to your personal care items. Nutrition Response Testing will tell you what your body is reacting to. From there we can know the next steps, supplements you can use to counteract and heal and some possible options for alternatives.

Ingredients: 2-3lb beef roast 5 medium carrots 4 medium potatoes 1 medium white onion 4-5 stocks of celery ¼ to ½ head of green cabbage 32 oz Organic beef broth 12 oz Guinness dark stout beer 2 Tbsp Apple cider vinegar 2 Bay Leaves Dry ingredients/Spices: 2 Tbsp Molasses 2 Tbsp Honey Garlic Black Pepper Oregano Thyme Directions: Mix all dry ingredients/spices. Season to your preference with spices. (You can substitute molasses & honey with ½ cup brown sugar) Next, rinse the beef roast and pat dry. Coat all sides of the roast with the spice blend. Place beef roast in a crockpot, pour in beef broth, Guinness, apple cider vinegar, and bay leaves. Set on low heat for 6 hours. After the meat is cooking, coarsely chop the carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, and cabbage. Place in a large bowl in the fridge. After 6 hours, remove the bay leaves and add the chopped vegetables. Cook on low heat for an additional 2 hours. After 8 total hours of cooking the roast can be removed to cut or be pulled into chunks. Vegetables should be tender when poked with a fork. *Try to use organic ingredients whenever possible

Most people who get tattoos do not consider how the materials and the procedure can harm their health for the long term. When you know that the results of getting a tattoo will be that heavy metals and other toxins will be injected into your skin, and the punctures will affect the density of your skin forever, you might want to think before you ink. Tattoo inks can contain heavy metals Many standard tattoo pigments get their permanence from heavy metals: lead, antimony, beryllium, chromium, cobalt, nickel and arsenic. Some people have reported that their tattoos burn or sting during an MRI procedure because the metal in their skin responds to the magnetic resonance in the machine. Heavy metals are linked to a variety of health problems including cancer, neurological problems and birth defects to name just a few. Some inks also contain toxic phthalates and hydrocarbons which have been shown to damage internal organs such as the liver, kidneys and lungs. Toxins from tattoos can show up in the body in different ways for different people. One person might have eczema or dry itchy skin, another might start to get headaches, have mood swings and develop anemia. Metal can accumulate anywhere in the body. Some people may have symptoms like poor memory, skin rashes and chronic skin conditions like acne, constipation, poor sleep quality, or low resistance to infection. The effects of tattoo ink can show up right away, and for some people, serious health concerns show up much later in life. Tattooing creates permanent scars There are enough stories in the media to alert people to the dangers of infection and disease from the needles used to apply tattoo ink, but what most people don’t realize is that the procedure creates scars. Tattoos, like other scars, have consistently been found to disturb the functioning of the autonomic nervous system. Abnormal nerve function can be present in any area of skin with a scar on it. These scars can sometimes suddenly “become active” (even years after they were formed) and accumulate nerve electricity, which is randomly discharged, confusing the nervous system. Because they act as capacitors which accumulate nerve energy, scars affect organs in the body and interfere with healing even if they are far away from the scar site. Identifying health stress caused by tattoos Nutrition Response TestingSM can detect the presence of some toxins such as those that are present in tattoo inks. Metals decrease the body’s ability to absorb nutrients and congestion in the main organs of elimination, like the bowels, skin, liver and kidneys as your body tries to detox. You are always naturally detoxing, but you can always improve the ability to drain toxic fluids, release metals and other toxins, and properly absorb nutrients. Using Nutrition Response TestingSM, I can help identify what areas of the body are stressed because of metal accumulation and the presence of scars. Then, using Designed Clinical Nutrition, I select safe and effective nutrients, homeopathic remedies or herbs that will allow good nutrients to be absorbed. This is in turn will help reduce concentrations of metals in the body, enhance the body’s natural healing response and get you on track for improved health and a better quality of life. Didn’t do this thinking before inking? If you are experiencing less than optimal health, and you have tattoos on your body, you should consider that they may be an underlying cause for your issues. The results from Nutrition Response TestingSM will help to determine the unique factors that are hindering your health and get you on track for better health. While the tattoo is there to stay, our bodies have the capability to detox if the right digestive and neurological environment is created internally by eating the right foods and supporting body function with the right whole food supplements. The way to better health starts with a consultation. Please email or call Dr. Lisa at 507-333-5388 to set up a consultation.