blood sugar disorders

How You Can Plan the Perfect Cozy Winter Day

How You Can Plan the Perfect Cozy Winter Day

Published by on December 9, 2021 | Leave a response

The days are getting shorter, and the air feels extra chilly. It's no secret that winter is here in full force. But just because you've swapped your flip-flops for a winter coat doesn't mean you have to hibernate until spring. You can enjoy the season to its fullest with this step-by-step guide to creating that perfectly cozy, special winter day.

Step 1: Pick Your Activity

Do you want to bundle up and head outside? Or would you rather stay home and curl up under a pile of soft blankets? Once you choose where you want to spend your cozy day, you can pick the activity that sounds the best. Is it…

  • A brisk hike along a local nature trail?
  • Cracking open a fictional novel?
  • Spending the afternoon binging on Netflix?

Remember, your perfect winter day is all about feeling warm and cozy, so choose something that is enjoyable and will relax your mind and body.

Step 2: Dress for the Occasion

What’s a comfy day without a cozy outfit?

If you’re staying home, put on your favorite sweatshirt or soft pajamas. Don’t forget your fuzzy slippers!

And if you’re heading out, don’t forget some gloves and a scarf. You may want to opt for layers rather than one big heavy sweatshirt. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Wear a thin inner layer to help pull away moisture from your body.
  2. Add a middle layer to keep you warm.
  3. Top it off with an outer layer to buffer you against the wind or snow.

The best part about layers is that if you get too hot, you can pull off that outer layer and still have enough clothing to protect you from the chill.

Step 3: Pour Yourself a Hot Drink

Winter was made for piping hot mugs of cocoa or cider. But if you’re looking for a more health-conscious option, consider one of these delicious options instead:

  • Healthy Hot Chocolate – This non-dairy treat only has six ingredients and takes less than 5 minutes to whip up! (If you’re a dairy fan, swap out the almond milk in this recipe with the same amount of raw milk.)
  • Chai Tea Latte – Enjoy a warm cup in the morning or for an afternoon pick-me-up.
  • Ginger Tea – Give your immune system a boost with a powerful cup of ginger tea. Ginger is full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, it may help lower your blood sugar and treat indigestion. (This makes it a perfect addition to your diet during the holidays!)

And while you’re at it, treat yourself to a bowl full of savory soup. We personally love a mouth-watering butternut squash soup, like this, or a hot stew such as this winter lentil one. Soups and stews are great when you’re on-the-go so be sure to fill up your mug before you head out!

Design Your Cozy Winter Day

This year has definitely been one for the books. And it’s high time for you to dedicate a day for some much-needed self care. The holidays are right around the corner and with all the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to overlook the importance of self care.

Remember that at the heart of your perfectly cozy day is you. So, take a few moments to plan out your perfect winter day and enjoy every moment. You deserve it!

Posted in Tagged , , ,
How to Control Sugar Cravings and Improve Insulin Response With Gymnema

How to Control Sugar Cravings and Improve Insulin Response With Gymnema

Published by on November 11, 2021 | Leave a response

No matter how healthy you are, we all get sugar cravings from time to time. And now that we’re in the holiday season, your pesky sweet tooth may be tempting you a little more than usual.

There are a few common go-to’s when it comes to curbing the cravings. These usually include changing up certain lifestyle habits to manage stress or getting enough sleep. They also include getting the proper nutrients or swapping out sweet treats with a piece of fruit.

But there's another powerful way to banish sugar cravings – one that's totally natural and surprisingly effective. It's a powerful little herb called Gymnema. Keep reading to learn more!

What Is Gymnema?

Gymnema is a climbing shrub whose leaves and roots have been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medicinal practice. This powerful herb has traditionally been used to help:

  • Reduce blood sugar levels
  • Lower the levels of sugar absorbed in your intestines
  • Decrease LDL cholesterol levels
  • Stimulate the release of insulin in your pancreas (which also helps lower your blood sugar levels)

Because of this, Gymnema can be a significant help in:

  • Treating diabetes
  • Regulating blood sugar control
  • Managing obesity

One of the most exciting benefits of Gymnema is its ability to curb your sweet cravings.

The Sweet Benefits of Gymnema

The main way that Gymnema controls your sugar cravings is by blocking the sugar receptors on your tongue. This makes it more difficult for you to taste sweetness in foods or beverages, which makes them seem far less appealing. The end result is a reduction of your overall sugar intake and sweet cravings.

Gymnema is also especially helpful for those with diabetes, because:

  1. It’s been shown to lower your blood sugar levels. Gymnema not only helps block your sugar receptors, but it also blocks the receptors in your intestines. This helps reduce how much sugar your intestines absorb, which means your blood sugar levels are far less likely to spike after eating a meal.
  2. Gymnema also helps improve your insulin response. When you have higher insulin levels, your body is able to clear sugar from your blood at a quicker pace. But for those who are prediabetic or have type 2 diabetes, your body doesn’t produce enough insulin. Enter Gymnema. Gymnema can help stimulate insulin production and help regenerate insulin-producing cells.

Who knew a little herb could be so powerful?

Curb Your Sugar Cravings Today

Given all the potent health benefits, you may be looking for simple ways to add it to your daily diet. The key is to consume Gymnema before eating or drinking a sugary treat so it has time to take effect.

While you can find Gymnema in a leaf powder or extract form, the most popular way to consume it is in a tablet form. We’d be happy to meet with you to talk through how you may benefit from adding Gymnema to your supplement regimen. Give our office a call to learn more and see how you can kick your sugar cravings to the curb!

Note: Be sure to talk with us or your primary healthcare provider before starting a new supplement. Diabetes can be tricky, and like many supplements, Gymnema may interact with certain diabetes medications.

Posted in Tagged , , ,