Health, Wellness & Nutrition Center, LLC

11/21/2025

Auricular acupuncture? Alpha-gal?

Our office has taken many calls about Auricular Acupuncture as a cure for Alpha-Gal. This article will discuss what this form of acupuncture can and cannot accomplish in connection to the health condition.

Alpha-gal is a tickborne disease resulting in an allergy to mammal meat and milk products. The severity of the condition can range from mild reactions to death. As with all allergies, chronic exposure to the allergen often worsens the immune system response.

Unlike other allergies, self-inoculation of small amounts of mammalian products does not desensitize a person to alpha-gal. Why? Simply, alpha-gal is a sugar not a protein. Common food allergies are reactions to protein(s) found in the food item.

Galactose-α-1,3-galactose is a sugar molecule found in mammals and the saliva of some ticks, but not in humans. This results in an immune system reaction against the sugar molecule. Note it is generally the second tick bite that results in the food allergy. This first bite triggers the body into alert, and the second exposure creates the allergy reaction.

Since this is a sugar molecule vs a protein, there is a delayed time reaction after exposure. Attempted digestion of the fat-soluble sugar requires extended time. This makes it difficult to relate reactions to mammal products. Most food allergies are more immediate where alpha-gal presents hours later.

With rising numbers of people being diagnosed with alpha-gal, research is looking for answers to manage the condition. To date, there is no cure for alpha-gal. However, a type of acupuncture has received a lot of attention.

Auricular acupuncture has provided symptom relief for some people. Please note caution should be utilized. Specialized training is needed to perform this technique. Numerous people have been injured through misplacement of needles.

As noted, this is for symptom relief only. Think of it as similar to taking an allergy med for seasonal allergies. It appears to work because symptoms are lessened but the allergy reaction (and damage) is still occurring—returning when the treatment wears off. If you suffer anaphylaxis from alpha-gal, you should still avoid mammal products even after the acupuncture.

Bottom line…
Alpha-gal is a serious and often life-threatening condition. As such, caution should be taken to avoid severe reactions or death. Auricular acupuncture has shown in small studies to reduce symptoms of alpha-gal. It should be emphasized this is not a cure for the allergy. There are new drugs being approved that may reduce the severity of symptoms, if accidently exposed to alpha-gal.

At this time the best treatment remains avoidance of mammalian products. Acupuncture reduces symptom reaction but is not a cure.

Dianna Richardson, ND November 2025

11/18/2025

Melatonin and Heart Failure

A new study presented at the American Heart Association's 2025 Scientific Sessions suggests that long-term melatonin use could be associated with a higher risk of heart failure, hospitalization, and death.

The five-year study tracked 130,828 adults with insomnia and found that people who took melatonin for at least one year had a 90% higher chance of heart failure. Researchers analyzed data from the United States and the United Kingdom. While melatonin is available over the counter in the U.S., it's prescription-only in the U.K.

Since this was an observational study, it does not prove that melatonin directly caused heart failure. More studies, including gold-standard randomized controlled trials, are needed to validate these findings.

Approximately, 5 million U.S. adults and 4 million U.S. children take melatonin each month—one of the most commonly used sleep aids. Anyone who relies on melatonin nightly should consider seeing a sleep specialist to determine potential underlying issues like chronic insomnia or stress. People who don't get enough sleep have a higher risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

While it may seem contradictory, short-term melatonin use can help with certain sleep issues and may offer some cardiovascular benefits. Human and animal studies have suggested that melatonin can help relieve oxidative stress and improve left ventricular function in people with heart failure.

It is important to note, melatonin use is generally safe, but it may interact with certain medications or cause daytime drowsiness, nausea, dizziness, or headaches in some people.

Bottom line…long term use of melatonin may be masking underlying health conditions. Likewise, recent information indicates more informational research is needed to eliminate health harm from the supplement itself.

Dianna Richardson, ND November 2025

References:
American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2025, Abstract MP2306. Long-term use of melatonin supplements to support sleep may have negative health effects.

Givler D, Givler A, Luther PM, et al. Chronic administration of melatonin: physiological and clinical considerations. Neurol Int. 2023;15(1):518-533.

Evbayekha EO, Aiwuyo HO, Dilibe A, et al. Sleep deprivation is associated with increased risk for hypertensive heart disease: a nationwide population-based cohort study. Cureus. 2022.

Tobeiha M, Jafari A, Fadaei S, et al. Evidence for the benefits of melatonin in cardiovascular disease. Front Cardiovasc Med. 2022;9:888319.

Domínguez-Rodríguez A, Abreu-González P, Báez-Ferrer N, Reiter RJ, Avanzas P, Hernández-Vaquero D. Melatonin and cardioprotection in humans: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Cardiovasc Med. 2021;8:635083.

Zhang X, Zheng Y, Wang Z, et al. Melatonin as a therapeutic agent for alleviating endothelial dysfunction in cardiovascular diseases: emphasis on oxidative stress. Biomed Pharmacother. 2023;167:115475.

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Melatonin: what you need to know.

11/18/2025

Homeopathy? Naturopathy?

Developed in the late 1700s in Germany, homeopathy uses tiny amounts of natural substances, such as plants and minerals, to trigger the healing process.

The founding belief behind homeopathy is two-part. First, is “like cures like.” In other words, something that causes symptoms in a healthy person can — in a very small dose — treat an illness with similar symptoms. This is meant to trigger the body’s natural defenses.

Secondly, is the “law of infinitesimals.” This refers to the more diluted the substance, the more potent it is for stimulating health.

Historically, homeopathic products have been identified through “provings. Substances are administered to healthy individuals in concentrations that cause symptoms. Symptoms experienced by individuals are recorded to indicate possible therapeutic uses for the substances.

In other words, if a substance causes a particular symptom, individuals experiencing that symptom would be treated with a diluted solution made from that substance. A properly trained individual can identify need and appropriate substance to stimulate resolution of the issue at hand.

Please note—certification in homeopathy is not the same as licensure. To become a licensed homeopathic physician requires medical school and residency programs. This process can take from 8-12 years plus passing of board exams.

Certification for legal practice on the other hand requires 500 hours of homeopathic training; 33 hours of training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, and disease; and 250 hours of clinical experience. This is in addition to acquisition of an MD, DO or ND degree. Whether licensure or certification, education must come from one of the seven accredited facilities in North America to meet requirement for board certification/license.

Once you have met the educational and board certification requirements, and additional 20 hour of continuing education is required annually to maintain your license/certification. This is in addition to the required continuing education to maintain your medical degree/board requirements.

What is the difference between naturopathy and homeopathy?

Naturopathy utilizes identification of root cause of ailment. Additionally, approach is multifaceted incorporating all impacting factors to the situation at hand (physical, mental, emotional, dietary, spiritual, environmental, etc.). Naturopaths will use multiple approaches including homeopathy, botanicals, reflexology, water therapy and many more techniques to restore homeostasis.

Homeopathy on the other hand is utilizing symptom resolution. The fundamental thought is the symptoms provide indicators of what the body needs to heal. Many naturopaths choose to be trained in homeopathy for additional tools to provide immediate relief from symptoms while root cause is being resolved.

Bottom line…

There are many modalities available in the healthcare marketplace. As you choose an avenue to assist in your wellbeing, protect yourself from fly-by-night online certifications that do not provide the in-depth trainings to effectively and safely resolve your health issues.

Dianna Richardson, ND November 2025

11/17/2025

https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-infant-botulism-infant-formula-november-2025

Do not use recalled ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula. FDA’s Investigation is ongoing.

11/17/2025

Nutrient Deficiencies Associated with Gluten Sensitivity
Although this article focuses on children, many of the attributes are also seen in adults. These may include, but are not limited to:

Bloating
Flatulence
Constipation
Diarrhea
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Iron deficiency anemia
Joint pain
Skin problems
Asthma
Mood imbalance
Fatigue
Weight loss/gain
Delayed puberty (in children)
Slowed growth (in children)
Infertility
Osteoporosis

Individuals with gluten sensitivity are unable to properly digest 2 proteins (glutenin and gliadin) that are found within wheat, rye, barley, spelt, Kamut, and oats. Although oats (both rolled and steel cut) do not contain gluten, they are often exposed to gluten when they are packaged or grown.

Unfortunately, people who are highly sensitive to gluten may not improve on a gluten-free diet if they are exposed to even a trace amount of gluten. For example, individuals with gluten sensitivity often must eat gluten-free products that are grown on a farm or in a facility where the food is dedicated to being gluten free.

The most well-known and serious type of gluten allergy is Celiac Disease (CD). It is a lifelong (chronic) condition occurring when gluten triggers an abnormal immune system. The response damages the villi of the small intestine. The purpose of the villi is to create a large surface that absorbs vitamins, sugars, and other nutrients as food passes through the small intestine.

When a person with CD eats gluten, the villi atrophy, and the intestinal lining becomes inflamed. This reaction decreases the surface area in the intestine that can absorb nutrients, resulting in malabsorption. In some cases, the malabsorption may be severe enough to stunt growth and weaken bones.

While there is less research on gluten sensitivity than on CD, there has been an increase in recent years. The clinical picture of gluten sensitivity often manifests like CD but in a milder form. Typically, gluten-sensitive children will have loose stools, bloating, or flatulence. Often, the child wakes frequently at night, indicating digestive tract inflammation. Children who are gluten sensitive may also present with constipation.

Signs of underlying abdominal pain from gluten sensitivity in a child include leaning the abdomen on the parent’s arm or leg, pushing the parent’s limb into the abdomen, leaning the abdomen over the couch or chair arm, or lying flat on the abdomen, especially on a cool tile floor. Doubling over indicates either acute or chronic abdominal pain.

When left untreated, children (and adults) with gluten sensitivity develop malabsorption of vitamins and minerals that are normally absorbed in the small intestine. Vitamin deficiencies associated with gluten sensitivity include (1) B vitamins, especially folate, riboflavin (vitamin B2), and vitamin B12, and (2) fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.

Mineral deficiencies associated with gluten sensitivity include calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc.
Long-term effects of continued nutrient deficiencies may be misdiagnosed into behavioral issues. These can include ADD, ADHD, OCD and ODD. Each of these conditions improve when nutrient intakes are adjusted.

Furthermore, immunity along with growth and development can be affected. If signs or symptoms of gluten intolerance are seen in either children or adults, a simple elimination style diet will quickly establish whether gluten is impairing health.

Dianna Richardson, ND November 2025

References:
FARE (2023). Food Allergy Epidemic.

Giriprasad et. al. (2019). Frequency of HLA celiac disease risk alleles and haplotypes in healthy adults in Tamil Nadu. Indian Journal of Gastroenterology, 38(2): 178-182.

Gujral et. al. (2012). Celiac disease: Prevalence, diagnosis, pathogenesis and treatment. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 18(42): 6036-6059.

Roszkowska et. al. (2019). Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity: A Review. Medicina, 55(6): 222.

Al-Toma A, Volta U, Auricchio R, Castillejo G, Sanders D, Cellier C, Mulder CJ, Lundin KAE. European Society for the Study of Coeliac Disease (ESsCD) guideline for coeliac disease and other gluten-related disorders. United European Gastroenterol J. 2019.

Uhde, et al., (2016). Intestinal cell damage and systemic immune activation in individuals reporting sensitivity to wheat in the absence of coeliac disease. BMJ Journals, 65(12), 1930-1937.

Saneifard et. al. (2021). Non-celiac gluten sensitivity as a rare cause of growth retardation in children: a case series study. Gastroenterol Hepatol Bed Bench. 14(4):362-366.

McAllister et.al. (2019). A comprehensive review of celiac disease/gluten-sensitive enteropathies. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 57:226–43.

Leonard et. al (2017). Celiac disease and nonceliac gluten sensitivity: a review. JAMA. 318:647–56.

Serena et. al. (2019). A. Genetic and environmental contributors for celiac disease. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 19:40.

Fasano et. al. (2015). Nonceliac gluten sensitivity. Gastroenterology. 148:1195–204.
Catassi et al. (2013). Non-celiac gluten sensitivity: the new frontier of gluten related disorders. Nutrients. 5:3839–53.

11/17/2025

Mindfulness Meditation and ADHD

ADHD is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder commonly resulting in hyperactivity, difficulty concentrating, impulsivity, and procrastination.

In the United States, 11% of children are diagnosed with ADHD and 4.4% of people continue to experience it throughout adulthood. However, these numbers may be underestimated due to underreporting and diagnosis.

In recent years, research has indicated mindfulness interventions and meditation improve ADHD in both adults and children. This is due to mindfulness practice increasing grey matter in the brain.

In addition, it contributes to improved memory, cognitive function, and motor skills. While this may seem like an impossible task, starting with small steps and simple exercises will allow you to improve your ADHD.

1). Mindful bites—for the first two bites of anything you are eating pay attention to texture, taste, smell and appearance of the food.

2). One breath—follow one breath through your body. Feels it as it enters your nose, feel your ribcage expand, your belly, and then back out of your body.

3). Mindful meditation—sit comfortably for 3-5 minutes. Notice the thoughts appearing in your mind and let them float away.

4). Make sure your environment has as few distractions as possible. This makes it easier to sit and focus on your meditation.

5). To get in the habit of mindful meditation, schedule it as part of your day.

6). Wear comfortable clothing to limit distraction. Additionally, when added as part of the morning routine or just prior to bedtime you will already be in a more relaxed state.

Think of mindfulness as a mental muscle exercise. The more you practice, the easier it gets!

Dianna Richardson, ND November 2025

References:
National Institute of Mental Health (no date). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults: What You Need to Know.

National Institute of Mental Health (no date). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

Poissant et. al. (2019). Behavioral and Cognitive Impacts of Mindfulness-Based Interventions on Adults with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review. Behavioral Neurology, doi: 10.1155/2019/5682050. PMID: 31093302.

Holzel et. al. (2011). Mindfulness practice leads to increases in regional brain grey matter density. Psychiatry Resource, 191(1): 36-43.

Chapman, S.G. (2012) The Five Keys to Mindful Communication. Boston: Shambhala.

Davidson, R., et al. (2003). Alterations in Brain and Immune Function Produced by Mindfulness Meditation. Psychosomatic Medicine, 65, 564-570. Hanh, T.N. (1987) The Miracle of Mindfulness. Boston: Beacon.

Kabat-Zinn, J. (1994) . Paying Attention in a Particular Way: On Purpose, in the Present Moment, and Nonjudgmentally,

Lazar, S., et al. (2005). Meditation Experience is Associated with Increased Cortical Thickness. NeuroReport, 16(17), 1893-1897.

Lutz, A., et al. (2008). Regulation of the Neural Circuitry of Emotion by Compassion Meditation: Effects of Meditative Expertise. PLoS One, 3(3), 1-10.

Semple, R., Reid, E., & Miller, L. (2005). Treating Anxiety with Mindfulness: An Open Trial of Mindfulness Training for Anxious Children. Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy, 19(4), 379-392.

Shapiro, S., et al. (2005). Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Health Care Professionals: Results from a Randomized Trial. International Journal of Stress Management, 12(2), 164-176.

11/15/2025

Magnesium Maze

Did you know magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body. It is responsible for over 300 metabolic reactions in the body including energy production, blood pressure regulation, nerve signaling, and muscle contraction to name a few. Additionally, low levels of magnesium have been linked to illnesses such as type-2 diabetes, heart disease, mood disorders, and migraines.

While magnesium is found in many foods like leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, and dark chocolate, some people prefer a supplement form of this mineral. Magnesium in a supplement form is available in a variety of types. Each type is bound to different substances. These bindings will affect how well the magnesium is absorbed into the body. Let’s take a look at magnesium supplements.

Magnesium oxide

This form is a salt that combines magnesium and oxygen. This type is not typically used to treat or prevent magnesium deficiency. Studies have shown magnesium oxide is poorly absorbed in the digestive tract.

Magnesium citrate

In this form, magnesium is bound with citric acid. Magnesium citrate is one of the most common forms of available magnesium. Research shows it is bioavailable; easily absorbed in the body. Due to its natural laxative effect, magnesium citrate is used to treat constipation.

Magnesium chloride

Magnesium chloride is a magnesium salt that includes chlorine — an unstable element that binds well with other elements, including sodium and magnesium. This form of magnesium is found in topical creams and lotions. It may help relieve muscle soreness but not boost your magnesium levels.

Magnesium lactate

In this form magnesium binds with lactic acid. This acid is not only produced by your muscle and blood cells but also manufactured for use as a preservative and flavoring agent. Magnesium lactate is used as a food additive to regulate acidity, fortify foods and beverages. Not popular as an over-the-counter supplement, it can serve in cases where people need to take large doses of magnesium regularly.

Magnesium malate

Magnesium malate includes malic acid, which occurs naturally in foods like fruit and wine. Research shows it is well absorbed in the digestive tract and may have less of a laxative effect on the bowels.

Magnesium sulfate

Better known as Epsom salt, this form of magnesium is bound with sulfur and oxygen. Magnesium sulfate is frequently dissolved in bathwater to soothe sore, achy muscles and relieve stress. It’s also sometimes included in skin care products, such as lotion or body oil. However, little evidence suggests this form is well absorbed through your skin.

Magnesium taurate

The amino acid plus magnesium equals magnesium taurate. Research has shown a connection between adequate amounts of taurine and magnesium are needed to maintain healthy blood sugar and blood pressure.

Magnesium glycinate or bisglycinate

This form is a combination of elemental magnesium and the amino acid glycine. This amino acid is used by the body in protein construction. Magnesium glycinate is easily absorbed and has calming properties. It may help reduce anxiety, depression, stress, and insomnia.

Magnesium L-threonate

Magnesium L-threonate is formed from mixing magnesium and threonic acid, a water-soluble substance derived from the metabolic breakdown of vitamin C. It is easily absorbed, and is the most effective form to increase magnesium levels in the brain. It is utilized in certain brain disorders—depression and age-related memory loss.

Magnesium ortate

Magnesium orotate includes orotic acid, a natural substance involved in your body’s construction of genetic material in the body. This form of magnesium is more expensive than other forms. Limited research suggests it may promote heart health. Competitive athletes often utilize it or orotic acid’s unique role in energy production. Again, studies are limited and the benefits don’t justify the cost for most people.

Magnesium plays vital roles in health. Low levels are linked to adverse effects including depression, heart disease and diabetes to name a few. It should be noted magnesium toxicity can occur. If you have kidney disease or consume large doses of supplements you may be at risk for toxicity. Signs of toxicity include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle weakness, irregular breathing, lethargy, and urinary retention.

Dianna Richardson, ND November 2025

References:

Schwalfenberg & Genuis (2017). The Importance of Magnesium in Clinical healthcare. Scientifica doi: 10.1155/2017/4179326.

Grober et. al. (2015). Magnesium in Prevention and Therapy. Nutrients, 7(9):8199-225.

Walker et.al. (2003). Mg citrate found more bioavailable than other Mg preparations in a randomised, double-blind study. MAgnes Res. 16(3): 183-91

Schuchardt & Hahn (2017). Intestinal Absorption and Factors Influencing Bioavailability of Magnesium-An Update. Current Nutrition Food Science, 13(4): 260-78.

Grober et. al. Myth or Reality—Transdermal Magnesium? Nutrients, 9(8):813

Uysal et. al. (2018). Timeline (Bioavailability) of Magnesium Compounds in Hours: Which Magnesium Compound Works Best? Biology of Trace Elements Research, 187(1):128-136.

ELDerawi et. al. (2018). The Effects of Oral Magnesium Supplementation on Glycemic Response among Type 2 Diabetes Patients. Nutrients 11(1): 44

Zhang et. al. (2016). Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Blood Pressure: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trials. Hypertension, 68(2):324-33.

Zarate et. al. (2013). New paradigms for treatment-resistant depression. Ann N Y Acad Sci, 1292: 21-31.

Razak et. al. (2017). Multifarious Beneficial Effect of Nonessential Amino Acid, Glycine: A Review. Oxid Med Cell Longev. doi: 10.1155/2017/1716701.

11/15/2025

Did You Know?

When it comes to essential oil use it is important to be aware of safety issues. We hear the words “natural, therapeutic, 100% pure, etc.” over and over. What we don’t hear about are safety issues. Remember natural does not equate to safe. I am not speaking of unsafe brands, but rather being uninformed of possible contradictions.

For example, did you that 5mL of either wintergreen or birch essential oil is equal to twenty-one 320 mg aspirins (total 6,720 mg)? Adult dosing of either essential oil should be limited to 6 drops (182 mg).

Why is this so important? These two oils can be contradicted for anyone on Anticoagulant medication (such as aspirin, heparin, warfarin), or undergoing major surgery and/or childbirth.

Likewise, suffering from peptic ulcers, hemophilia and other bleeding disorders makes these oils a risk. If you have severe hepatic (liver) or renal (kidney) impairment these oils can cause issues.

It doesn’t stop there. Being Hypertensive or having Diabetic Retinopathy, Thrombocytopenia (decreased platelet count), or Vasculitis also presents dangers. Let us not forget there are people with Salicylate sensitivity. Again, these oils should be avoided.

One of the most concerning to me involves children. Under the age of 18, we do not give aspirin to children because of the risks of Reye’s syndrome. This condition can cause swelling in the liver and brain. Research had indicated dosing less than 45mg increase the risk of Reye's syndrome 20-fold. It is best to avoid these oils with children under age 18.

Essential oils provide a viable avenue to improve health status. However, it is imperative one is also aware of potential contradictions to avoid health damage.

Dianna Richardson, ND November 2025

Reference:

Mayo Clinic (2023). Reye’s Syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/reyes-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20377255

NORD (2020). Reye Syndrome. Retrieved from https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/reye-syndrome/

Chapman & Arnold (2023). Reye Syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526101/

11/14/2025

‘Tis the season for leftovers!

Holiday meals often result in leftover food. Finding new ways to utilized this already cooked food is key to keeping your tastebuds happy! Here are a couple of easy ideas that are adaptable and tasty.

Mashed Potato Pizza—serves 6-8* adaptable to gluten-free, dairy free, vegetarian
2 premade 12-inch pizza crusts (or make your own)*
5 oz. finely chopped bacon
3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella
½ leek sliced very fine (bulb only)
½ cup parmesan or combo of parmesan and feta
12 fresh basil leaves
1 cup finely chopped turkey or ham (optional)

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 500 degrees F. If using a pizza stone allow stone to be in oven 30 minutes for preheat.
Heat a small skillet over medium heat, add the bacon, cook until the fat renders but is short of being crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Place the 2 pizza crusts in oven for about 4 minutes. Remove and top with listed ingredients.

Spread half of the mashed potatoes over the top, leaving about a 1-inch border around the side. Then sprinkle half of the cheese on top and top with half of the bacon, leek and garlic (meat if using). Drizzle with a little olive oil. Return the pizza to the stone and cook until the crust is golden and the cheese melts, about 5 to 7 minutes more. Remove the pizza, top with half the grated Parmesan and scatter with some basil leaves and pepper flakes, if desired. Serve.

*Note: gluten free crust can be used in this recipe. Also, dairy-free cheese can be used. Using one made from oatmilk will allow for a creamy melted cheese similar to the dairy counterpart. For vegetarian or vegan options substitute meat items for other leftover proteins.

Leftover Stuffing Waffles—serves 2-4

Oil or spray for waffle iron (preferably Belgin style)
4 ½ cups crumbled leftover stuffing
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
2 large eggs
2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
½ cup leftover gravy (warm)
¼ cup leftover cranberry sauce

Instructions:
Preheat waffle iron to medium high and coat with oil or spray.

Combine the stuffing, parsley and eggs in a medium bowl. Evenly and firmly pack the waffle iron with some of the stuffing mixture. Close the iron and cook until the waffle is golden and can be lifted out easily, 4 to 6 minutes. Repeat with the remaining stuffing mixture.

Transfer each waffle to a plate, top with a scoop of mashed potatoes and then cover with gravy; finish with a dollop of cranberry sauce.

11/14/2025

Healthy Skin Month

Since 1997, November has been a focus month for skin and keeping it healthy. Every stage of life requires healthy skin. It is important to note skin is our first line of immunity protection. Skin can also give important clues to overall health.

Skin protects your body in many ways. Skin researchers are studying the skin’s microbiome—the bacteria and other microscopic organisms that live on your skin. Some of these microbes can be helpful. Evidence suggests that they boost the body’s infection-fighting immune system and help keep you healthy.

Skin plays other roles, too. It contains nerve endings that let you feel when an object is too hot or sharp, helping you to avoid injury. Sweat glands and tiny blood vessels in your skin help to control body temperature. And cells in the skin turn sunlight into vitamin D —essential for bone health, cardio function and more.

Skin can also alert a person to a health problem. A red, itchy rash might signal allergies or infections, and a red “butterfly” rash on your face might be a sign of lupus. A yellow tint might indicate liver disease. And dark or unusual moles might be a warning sign of skin cancer

Your skin can become too dry if you don’t drink enough fluids or spend too much time in sunny or dry conditions. Washing hands is important for good hygiene, washing your hands, however too much can also lead to dry skin. Dry skin can lead to breaks, cracks, and potential infections.

Tips for Healthy Skin

1. Wash up. Bathe in warm—not hot—water; use mild cleansers that don’t irritate; and wash gently—don’t scrub.

2. Block sun damage. Avoid intense sun exposure, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing.

3. Don’t use tanning beds or sunlamps. They emit the same harmful UV radiation as the sun.

4. Avoid dry skin. Drink plenty of water, and use gentle moisturizers, lotions, or creams.

5. Reduce stress. Stress can harm your skin and other body systems.

6. Get enough sleep. Experts recommend about 9 hours a night for teens and 7-8 hours for adults.

7. Speak up. Talk to your doctor if you notice any odd changes to your skin, like a rash or mole that changes size or color.

Skin remains the largest organ of the human body. Supporting this organ goes a long way toward supporting general health!

Dianna Richardson, ND November 2025