Radio Naturopath Episode 449: Supplements and Herbs for Hypertension; Energy Drinks

This week we got a little more into herbs and supplements for high blood pressure. Lots of people struggle with it, even while on meds. There are so many causes and you can help it from a number of different directions, and these can help. So can basic lifestyle changes like more rest and sleep, eating lots of produce, and limiting sugar, caffeine, and processed foods. We also talked about Energy Drinks: yay or nay? 

Radio Naturopath Episode 384: Happy Valentine's Day 2023! Chocolate, Vanilla, and Love Hormones

This week Ron and I commemorated our Valentine's Day anniversary, and then talked about more health benefits of chocolate. We even talked about the health benefits of vanilla, which are somewhat similar! And who knew that Richard Cadbury, the 19th century English chocolatier, started the tradition of chocolate gifts on Valentine's Day. He also created the first chocolate that was affordable for the masses! Milton Hershey and Russell Stover followed soon behind. We also touched on some feel-good hormones, like oxytocin and phenylethylamine. 

Radio Naturopath Episode 292: Montelukast and Psychiatric Side Effects; Why Chocolate is Good For You

This week, we alerted listeners to the drug montelukast, brand name Singulair. This anti-leukotriene drug is commonly given to children and adults with allergies and asthma. The manufacturer has known for at least ten years that it can cause severe psychiatric effects in children, and yet the drug continues to be prescribed. I discussed the mechanism of action of the drug and some possibilities as to its cause. I also talked about nutritional factors that can be managed.

Since it's Valentine's Day this coming Sunday, I skipped over the mushy stuff and went right to chocolate! Why it's good for you, what conditions it can help, and recipes that include it.

Radio Naturopath Episode 250: Coronavirus and Telehealth; Your Health and Going Outdoors!

Ron and I are still recording in our state-of-the-art studio in the bustling metropolis of beautiful downtown Mansfield Hollow, CT, while simulcasting to the universe on @franstorchnd on Facebook Live. You can go to @franstorchnd which will take you to my Facebook page and you can watch the Facebook Live anytime, and comment on it too! Today I reminded people that they can use telehealth by phone or non-public-facing apps to have visits with their practitioners, whether naturopathic, M.D., counseling, and any other kind of practitioner, and insurance will likely cover it! The BIG thing I wanted to convey is how great it is for you to get outside. There are numerous studies on spending time outdoors and various health parameters. For example, being outdoors in nature lowers cortisol and therefore stress, lowers blood pressure, improves mood. Surprise! I speculate on the science behind why that might be.

Radio Naturopath Episode 246: Know Your Farmer Fair 2020, More on Coronavirus, Why Chocolate is Good For You

It’s the 2020 Know Your Farmer Fair! It’s at Town Hall in Willimantic, CT. It’s a great way to get to know the local people who grow your food! There will be produce, meat, eggs, cheese, honey, maple syrup, and jams and jellies for sale. I had a question about more info about the coronavirus, so I discussed it some more. You also get to hear how Ron and I met! And, the health benefits of chocolate.

Radio Naturopath Episode 233: Middle Age Weight Gain, E. Coli, Blood Pressure Meds, Cruciferous Vegetables

Today I talked about all SORTS of stuff. I gave a history of Mischief Night and other assorted names for October 30. Apparently, Mischief Night is just a Jersey thing! There's a new study with ANOTHER reason why middle aged people gain weight. We got the update on Ron and his healing process. There's an easy way to prevent E. Coli infection. Always is taking the female symbol off its menstrual hygiene products! Here's why to take your blood pressure meds at NIGHT. Why you crave starchy, fatty foods when you're sleep deprived. And why cruciferous vegetables are good for you!

Radio Naturopath Episode 210: Allergy Reminder; Interview with Kurt Beil, N.D., The Outdoors and Your Health!

And, it's time for Radio Naturopath Episode 210! My friend and colleague, Kurt Beil, N.D. called in. He is a naturopathic doctor practicing in Westchester County, NY, and Western Connecticut. He focuses on helping people to get outside, and has studied and published on the health benefits of being outside in nature! Who woulda guessed, getting outside is good for your health! We talked about how there are studies on being outdoors and reducing cortisol and blood pressure. Also, Earth Day is Monday, and we talked about enjoying and being a good steward to Mother Earth. Dr. Kurt will be back on June 5 LIVE to get more geeky about why outside is great!

 I also gave a quick reminder on allergy care, since the pollen count is so high.