Could Your Diet Be Making Allergies Worse? by Mack Bruce

Diet & Seasonal Allergies

Sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, congestion, and headache are hallmark symptoms of seasonal “hay fever,” or allergic rhinitis (AR), one of the most prevalent chronic inflammatory conditions worldwide, affecting ~400 million individuals (2026). In North America, spring pollen exposure typically begins in February and can extend into early summer, with regional variability shaped by tree and grass pollination patterns. Individuals allergic to ragweed often experience symptoms from late summer through fall. Several key features characterize seasonal AR: it arises from complex interactions between the immune system and environmental antigens; common triggers include tree pollen, mold, and ragweed; and exposure to these allergens induces histamine release, which leads to inflammation, fatigue, and other symptoms. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, pollen thrives when nights are cool and days are warm; molds proliferate in heat and high humidity; pollen levels peak in the morning; rain temporarily suppresses pollen but counts rise after nightfall; and pollen surges on warm, windy days. A cascade beginning in the nasal mucosa with an immunoglobulin E–mediated response triggers symptoms such as nasal itching, sneezing, rhinorrhea, and congestion (Salz, 2025). Allergies may impair quality of life, reduce productivity, and disrupt sleep. Evidence suggests that diet and nutrition influence the development and severity of allergic diseases and can affect daily functioning. Emerging research also indicates that plant‑based dietary patterns may confer symptoms‑reducing benefits (Zhang & Vanderhoof, 2023).

Dietary components differentially regulate allergic‑inflammation pathways through host‑ and microbiota‑derived metabolites. A diverse range of nutrients—including vitamins A, D, and E; the minerals zinc, iron, and selenium; dietary fiber; fatty acids; and phytochemicals—modulate these pathways through immune‑ and microbiota‑derived mechanisms, thereby influencing allergy outcomes (Zhang & Vanderhoof, 2023). Numerous studies have shown that dietary patterns high in calories and saturated fat and low in dietary fiber—characteristic of the typical Western diet—may increase the risk of allergic diseases, including seasonal allergies, through several mechanisms, such as adverse effects on the gut microbiome. Conversely, Mediterranean dietary patterns rich in plant‑based foods such as fruits, vegetables, and unsaturated fats from olive oil and omega‑3–rich fish have been correlated with a lower risk of seasonal allergies. Gut health and diet are increasingly recognized as important factors influencing allergic‑inflammation pathways and symptom severity. These dietary and microbiome‑related factors contribute to immune regulation and inflammatory balance, which may help modulate the body’s response to seasonal allergens (Salz, 2025).

Quercetin, a flavonol within the polyphenol family, has been studied for its potential to modulate allergic inflammation by stabilizing mast cells and reducing histamine release. Although preclinical findings are promising, the broader clinical evidence remains inconclusive. Quercetin’s absorption from foods is relatively low, but supplemental forms may achieve higher bioavailability and have shown potential, though not definitive, benefits in preliminary studies. Some people consume locally grown honey believing that ingesting small amounts of local pollen will build tolerance and reduce allergy symptoms. However, research shows that honey primarily contains heavy, flower‑derived pollen grains, not the airborne tree, grass, and weed pollens responsible for seasonal allergies. As a result, honey does not provide meaningful exposure to the allergens that trigger allergic rhinitis, and individuals allergic to specific plants may even react to honey produced from those same sources (Breeding, 2017).

Diet and nutrition influence immune and inflammatory pathways that contribute to the severity of allergic symptoms. Numerous micronutrients—including vitamins A, D, and E; B vitamins; and the minerals zinc, selenium, iron, copper, and magnesium—serve as cofactors in immune‑cell development, epithelial‑barrier maintenance, and antioxidant defense. Dietary fiber, flavonoids, and omega‑3 fatty acids promote the production of short‑chain fatty acids such as butyrate, which support intestinal epithelial integrity and exert anti‑inflammatory effects. Collectively, these dietary components contribute to immune regulation and may help modulate the body’s response to seasonal allergens (Salz, 2025).

How to Know Your Supplements Are Safe, Authentic, and Properly Sourced by Mack Bruce

Not all supplements are created equal—there is a wide range of manufacturers, and consequently, wide variation in supplement types and quality. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators, and the Partnership for Safe Medicines have identified pill presses and counterfeit pill molds as an overlooked health threat. Raw powders can be purchased inexpensively, mixed with fillers to increase volume, and used to produce counterfeit products; powders containing anabolic steroids and steroid precursors have frequently originated in China and been sold online (Denham, 2021). Synthetic vitamins and supplements are lab‑made chemical compounds designed to mimic how the body absorbs nutrients from food. However, they are produced through processes unlike the metabolic pathways plants and animals use to create nutrients naturally, and they do not account for the countless compounds and phytonutrients present in whole foods—factors that may contribute to various health consequences (2022). Risks of using unregulated supplements include possible contamination, consisting of banned substances, inaccurate labeling, adverse health effects, and wasted money (Isaacs, 2023). So it is very important to properly source vitamin supplements in order to ensure they are safe and authentic.

Counterfeit Vitamins

25 years ago, the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA) classified a wide range of products—vitamins, minerals, herbs and other botanicals, and amino acids—as dietary supplements. By placing them in a special category of foods rather than drugs, DSHEA permitted manufacturers to market these products without providing the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with premarket evidence of safety or efficacy. Ideally, this exclusion from drug classification would allow manufacturers to avoid delays in bringing supplements to consumers who lack certain nutrients. In practice, however, the DSHEA has enabled the sale of adulterated and mislabelled products—often containing hazardous or untested ingredients and produced, packaged, or stored in violation of ethical manufacturing standards. Moreover, mislabelled products may contain false or misleading information or omit required product details. The FDA has identified more than ~1,050 tainted dietary supplements since 2007 and continued analyses identify synthetic drugs as product adulterants including contaminants such as anabolic steroids, erectile dysfunction medications, weight-loss drugs, workout stimulants. and mind-altering substances. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators, and the Partnership for Safe Medicines have recognized pill presses and counterfeit pill molds as a neglected health threat. Raw powders can be purchased inexpensively, mixed with fillers to increase volume, and used to produce counterfeit products; powders containing anabolic steroids and steroid precursors have frequently originated in China and been sold over the internet. 

In 2011, a holistic healer in California was arrested for marketing a glue and cold remedy that consisted of arsenic and the Schedule I controlled substance  bufotenine, which is found in toad venom. In 2015, an individual received more than four years in prison for selling ‘Miracle Mineral Solution,’ a so‑called ‘cure‑all’ that actually contained industrial bleach. Also in 2015, a person was given a five-year prison sentence for peddling ‘Potion 9’—containing the substance butanediol, an industrial solvent which metabolizes into the date-rape drug gammahydroxybutyric. Hazardous drugs such as sibutramine—withdrawn from the U.S. market since 2010—have continued to show up in ‘natural’ weight-loss supplements; one individual received 6 months of home confinement for selling sibutramine she had bought from China in 2019. A federal court in 2019 indicted six individuals and two companies for distributing dietary supplements containing anabolic steroids (Denham, 2021).

Given the lack of required safety or efficacy testing before supplements reach the market, where people source their vitamins and supplements becomes critically important for avoiding potential health risks and ensuring nutritional effectiveness.

Dangers of Synthetic Vitamins

Organic vitamins and supplements originate from whole‑food sources and are produced by condensing and concentrating specific fruits, vegetables, and other natural foods into a convenient form, preserving the naturally occurring nutrients they contain. Many of the nutrients found in vitamins and supplements can also be obtained by consuming whole foods and certain herbs. Because organic vitamins are derived from whole‑food sources, they come packaged with naturally occurring compounds that may support absorption and utilization.

On the other hand, synthetic vitamins and supplements are lab‑made chemical compounds designed to replicate the chemical structure of nutrients found in food. They are produced through processes unlike the metabolic pathways plants and animals use to create nutrients naturally, and they do not include the diverse compounds and phytonutrients present in whole foods—factors that may influence how nutrients function in the body. The body absorbs and uses nutrients based on their chemical structure, not on whether they are synthetic or natural. In some cases, synthetic forms differ in bioavailability, depending on the nutrient and formulation. Synthetic vitamin formulas may also contain very high nutrient doses, often far exceeding typical dietary levels, and such megadoses can increase the risk of adverse effects, particularly when taken without medical guidance. Manufacturers sometimes market synthetic vitamins as ‘natural’ because their chemical structures are virtually identical to nutrients found in whole foods. However, the processes used to produce synthetic vitamins differ from the metabolic pathways plants and animals use to create nutrients naturally, and synthetic forms do not include the wide range of accompanying compounds present in whole foods. These differences can influence how certain nutrients are absorbed or utilized, depending on the nutrient and formulation. In addition, some synthetic supplements are sold in very high doses, and excessive intake of any vitamin—natural or synthetic—can increase the risk of adverse effects. A few high‑dose synthetic nutrients have been associated with specific health risks in certain populations, underscoring the importance of using supplements judiciously (2022).

Nonregulated Vitamins & Risks

In August 2019, the Blue Ridge Poison Control Center in Virginia received a report of a patient who developed hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) following the use of a supplement pill called ‘V8,’ obtained at a gas station. 12 additional cases were reported by hospitals over the following month. The Central Virginia Health District and the University of Virginia conducted an investigation that found the supplement—sold at numerous gas stations and convenience stores—contained a medication used to treat diabetes. The Virginia Department of Health then worked to remove the V8 pills from store shelves to prevent further exposures (Ellick, 2020). 

A risk of using nonregulated supplements is that they may include unlabeled ingredients, which may be deleterious. Supplements such as protein powders, pre workout, and vitamins that carry a Supplements Facts (rather than a Nutrition Facts) panel aren’t regulated the same way as food and medicine. Moreover, the largely unregulated global supplement industry, valued at over $152 billion, poses additional risks such as contamination, banned substances, adverse health effects, and wasted money (Isaacs, 2023). 

Unregulated supplements may contain substances not disclosed on the label, such as banned compounds, allergens, or other unintended ingredients. A literature review published in BioMed Research International, which surveyed studies indexed in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, identified 3,123 dietary supplements that had been analyzed for undisclosed compounds. Of these, 875 were found to contain undeclared substances, most commonly sibutramine and anabolic‑androgenic steroids, both banned by the World Anti‑Doping Agency. Overall, more than 28% of the analyzed supplements carried a potential risk of unintentional doping (Kozhuharov et al., 2022).

The ingredients in a supplement may not correspond to what is declared on the label, which can lead to unintended effects or unfavorable reactions, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities to specific ingredients. Substances that are poor in quality or contaminated can trigger harmful health effects. Some supplements may also interact negatively with medications you are taking or cause other unwanted effects on your health. Lastly, supplements that fail to deliver their promised benefits—whether due to poor quality or inaccurate labeling—amount to wasted money (Isaacs, 2023).

To mitigate the risks associated with unregulated supplements, there are several steps you can take. First, look for products that have undergone third‑party testing; choose supplements from reputable brands that have been independently tested for quality and purity. Second, consult trained professionals [such as those at Naturally Radiant or other qualified wellness providers]. Finally, whenever possible, aim to obtain your nutrients from food rather than supplements; supplements should be used to fill specific nutritional gaps, not to replace a well‑balanced and healthy diet (Isaacs, 2023). Because your health matters, taking a cautious and informed approach to the supplements you use is essential for protecting your overall well‑being.

Food & Nutrition That Supports Mental Health by Mack Bruce

‘You are what you ingest’—a reminder many factors influence mental health; however, food, nutrition and mental health remain central contributors to emotional stability and overall brain function, intersecting with one another in multidirectional ways. Certain foods or dietary patterns may have notable effects on glycaemia, immune activation, and the gut microbiome, thereby influencing the relationship between food and mood. Epidemiological research has observed that adherence to healthy or Mediterranean dietary patterns—characterized by high consumption of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes; moderate consumption of poultry, eggs, and dairy products; and only occasional consumption of red meat—is correlated with a reduced risk of depression, although this association is complicated by the potential for reverse causality between diet and mental health (Firth et al., 2020). Dietary patterns influence mental health and overall well‑being via anti‑inflammatory, antioxidant, neurogenic, microbiome‑mediated, immune‑modulating, and epigenetic pathways. These patterns shape brain composition, structure, and function, as well as endogenous hormones, neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, and the microbiota–gut–brain axis, therefore modulating stress, inflammation, and cognitive resilience. Targeted supplementation with micronutrients and macronutrients can confer further benefits owing to their diverse biological functions (Muscaritoli, 2021). Stated succinctly, food, nutrition, and mental health share bidirectional relationships that cumulatively influence overall mental health and general well‑being.

Diet & Mental Health Outcomes

Depression and anxiety are among the most common mental health conditions globally and are leading contributors to disability, and beyond diagnosed disorders, subclinical symptoms of these conditions affect the well‑being and functioning of a large proportion of the population. Specific foods and dietary patterns have notable effects on glycaemia, immune activation, and the gut microbiome, thereby influencing the relationship between food and mood. Epidemiological research indicates an adherence to healthy or Mediterranean dietary patterns—typified by high consumption of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes; moderate consumption of poultry, eggs, and dairy products; and only occasional consumption of red meat—is linked to a reduced risk of depression, although this correlation is complicated by the potential for reverse causality between diet and mental health. Changes in food choices or preferences caused by psychological states—such as seeking “comfort foods” during low mood or experiencing appetite changes under stress—are typical human experiences. The relationships between nutrition and longstanding mental illness are further complicated by barriers to maintaining a healthy diet, which disproportionately affect people experiencing mental illness and include social and environmental determinants of health as well as the appetite‑inducing effects of psychiatric medications. 

The consumption of highly refined carbohydrates increases the risk of obesity and diabetes—conditions associated with a higher likelihood of developing depression. High‑calorie meals rich in saturated fat also stimulate immune activation, which heightens depressive risk. In contrast, dedication to Mediterranean dietary habits has manifested reduction of inflammatory markers in humans and is associated with a lower risk of depression (Firth et al., 2020). Consuming high‑quality foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants supports brain function and protects against oxidative stress—cellular damage caused by free radicals generated during normal metabolic processes. Diets high in refined sugars, conversely, impair insulin regulation and promote inflammation and oxidative stress. Numerous studies have found correlations between high intake of refined sugars, compromised cognitive functioning, and worsening symptoms of mood disorders such as depression (Selhub, 2022). Diet, together with genetic factors and exposure to antibiotics, plays a central role in shaping the diversity, relative abundance, and functionality of the gut microbiome (Firth et al., 2020). Psychiatry is increasingly recognizing the complex relationships between what individuals ingest, how they feel, how they behave, and the microbial communities that inhabit the gut. ~90–95% of the body’s serotonin is produced in the gastrointestinal tract, containing roughly one hundred million neurons. Although peripheral serotonin does not cross the blood–brain barrier, the gut’s neural, immune, and microbial signaling pathways help explain why digestive processes influence emotional regulation. Furthermore, the activity of these neurons and the production of neurotransmitter‑related metabolites are strongly shaped by the billions of beneficial bacteria that compose the intestinal microbiome (Selhub, 2022).

The neurocognitive consequences of the Western diet, and the potential mediating role of low‑grade systemic immune activation, may arise from a compromised mucus layer with or without increased epithelial permeability. This reduction in gut‑barrier function—often referred to as a ‘leaky gut’—is linked to a dysfunctional microbiome resulting from diets low in fibre and high in saturated fats, refined sugars, and artificial sweeteners. Contrastingly, diets rich in fibres, polyphenols, and unsaturated fatty acids promote microbial taxa capable of metabolising these substrates into anti‑inflammatory compounds such as short‑chain fatty acids, while reducing the production of secondary bile acids and p‑cresol. 

Research has illustrated ingestion of probiotics targeting the gut microbiome can alter neural responses during tasks involving emotional attention and may even reduce depressive symptoms in some individuals. Diet exerts an essential influence on mental health outcomes and overall well‑being through metabolic, inflammatory, and microbiome‑mediated pathways (Firth et al., 2020).

The Effects of Nutrition on Mental Health

Nutrition is a key determinant of mental health and overall well‑being. Healthy nutrition is vital for maintaining normal bodily functioning and preventing or mitigating dysfunctioning induced by internal or external influences. Nutritional deficiencies often cause hampered functioning and, conversely, nutritional intake at recommended levels can continue or enhance bodily functioning. Studies increasingly show that diet and nutrition play critical roles not only in physiology and body composition, but also have notable effects on mood and mental well-being. In a 6‑week double‑blind randomized placebo‑controlled clinical trial involving academic personnel aged 18–60 who were experiencing stress, 93 participants were assigned to one of three groups: a fish‑oil treatment group (n = 16), an olive‑oil placebo group (n = 14), and a non‑blinded no‑treatment group (n = 63). The study found a significant reduction in perceived stress in the fish‑oil group compared with both the placebo group and the no‑treatment group. In a 16‑week placebo‑controlled trial involving subjects aged 15–40 with recent‑onset schizophrenia‑spectrum disorders (n = 46) or bipolar disorder (n = 4) and current psychotic symptoms, 50 participants receiving risperidone were randomized 1:1 to adjunctive n‑3 PUFAs (polyunsaturated fatty acids) (n = 25) or placebo (n = 25). The active n‑3 PUFA group demonstrated substantial reductions in depression–anxiety symptoms compared with the placebo group. Another example is a 6‑month randomized, double‑blind, placebo‑controlled trial involving adults aged ≥65 years with probable mild cognitive impairment. 46 participants were randomized 1:1 to receive either a combination of omega‑3 and omega‑6 PUFAs with antioxidant vitamins (alpha‑tocopherol, gamma‑tocopherol, and vitamin A) (n = 23) or a placebo (n = 23). The study reported significant improvements in functional capacity and cognitive performance in the supplementation group compared with the placebo group.

The data supports a positive role for particular nutrients in preserving healthy cognitive function and mental well‑being, in part through their modulation of neuroinflammation. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating nutrient‑dense foods into a balanced and varied diet as part of a healthy lifestyle. This is relevant when considering cognitive aging, as the brain is highly susceptible to the cumulative effects of lifelong stressors and may benefit from targeted nutritional support (Muscaritoli, 2021).

How Stress Impacts Digestion & Nutrient Absorption by Mack Bruce

Stress impacts human bodies in numerous ways whether through the cardiovascular, digestive, immune, musculoskeletal, nervous and brain, and reproductive and endocrine systems. Chronic-stress can trigger long-term issues such as hypertension, heart disease, digestive problems (Irritable Bowel Syndrome [IBS], ulcers), weakened immunity, sleep disorders, and mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, via the activation of the body’s “fight-or-flight” response through hormones like cortisol. Particularly, stress negatively affects digestion and nutrient absorption generally. While stress is not necessarily the prime cause of digestion and nutrient absorption issues, stress plays a fundamental role in how symptoms develop and persist. So stress is important to manage for both bodily regulation and overall health.

Chronic stress can directly trigger or worsen digestive problems (IBS, ulcers) through the gut–brain connection. The gut–brain axis links the nervous system, hormones, and digestion, so chronic stress can alter gut motility, increase visceral hypersensitivity (gut pain sensitivity), and disrupt the gut microbiome—changes that intensify IBS symptoms and make them harder to predict. Activation of the stress response can also lead to bloating, cramping, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and more frequent IBS flare‑ups. Moreover, stress inhibits nutrient absorption by diverting blood and energy away from the gut, thereby reducing digestive juices (acid, enzymes, bile), slowing gut motility, weakening the intestinal barrier (‘leaky gut’), and disrupting the gut microbiome. This consequently vitiates the breakdown and uptake of minerals (magnesium, calcium) and vitamins (B, D) while simultaneously increasing their excretion and demand, resulting in potential deficiencies.

Stress may not be the primary cause of digestive or nutrient‑absorption issues; however, chronic stress can influence how digestive symptoms develop and persist, as well as the efficiency of nutrient absorption. The impact of stress on health should not be underestimated. Managing stress is important not only for mental wellness but also for physical health and overall well‑being.

The Sacred Journey to Health: A Practitioner’s Heartfelt Reflection by Karen Chalmers Payne

There’s a moment that happens in almost every session. Sometimes it’s subtle. Sometimes it’s tearful and loud. But it always stops me in my tracks…that moment when I see a client cross over into health.

Not just physical healing, but a light returning to their eyes. Hope rising. Strength being restored not only in the body, but in the mind and spirit. It is in these moments that I’m reminded of why I do this work and Who I do it for.

As a practitioner of Nutrition Response Testing, I’m deeply aware that this isn’t just about supplements or muscle testing. This is about partnering with the divine. I am a vessel for God’s healing work. I don’t take credit for the results…how could I? I’m simply humbled to be the hands He uses. Every session is sacred, and I never forget the honor of that responsibility.

Each client who walks through my door is more than just a case to solve. They become part of my extended family. I ask about their kids, their dogs, their dreams. I celebrate their milestones and sit with them in their struggles. These relationships are real and personal, and they mean the world to me.

To walk alongside someone as they begin to feel like themselves again, maybe for the first time in years, is one of the greatest honors of my life. When someone tells me they’re sleeping better, thinking clearly, feeling joy again…or that their bowels are finally moving like clockwork (we laugh, but what a big deal that is!)…I often feel like crying right along with them.

Because I know what it took to get there. I know the fear they carried. I know the exhaustion they’ve felt. And I get to witness the moment they start to believe that healing is possible after all.

I want my clients to thrive. Not just physically, but wholly…mind, body, and spirit. I believe true health is a return to who we were created to be. Vibrant. Joyful. Free. And I get to be a part of that journey? What a gift. What a God-given gift.

So if you’re reading this and you’re on a healing journey, or want to be, I want you to know: there is hope. Your body was designed to heal. You were not meant to just get by. You were made to live fully, joyfully, and with purpose.

And if I can help guide you there, even just a little, I will count it as one of the greatest privileges of my life.

With love and gratitude,

Karen Chalmers Payne, Nutrition Response Testing Practitioner 

Elina Fedotova’s Inspiring Visit to Naturally Radiant - March 28-30, 2025

We recently had the honor of welcoming the renowned Elina Fedotova to Naturally Radiant for a truly transformative weekend! As the Chief Formulator & CEO of Elina Organics, the President of the Association of Holistic Skin Care Practitioners (AHSCP), and an award-winning celebrity aesthetician, Elina’s expertise in holistic skincare is unparalleled. Her visit was an incredible opportunity for both our team and our clients to deepen their knowledge and experience the benefits of her cutting-edge formulations firsthand.

Specialized Training for Our Team Elina provided an exclusive training session for our practitioners, sharing advanced techniques and insights into holistic skincare. She guided us through her organic, bioenergetic skincare approach, demonstrating innovative methods that enhance the skin’s natural ability to heal and rejuvenate. Her hands-on training empowered our team with new skills that will elevate our treatments and ensure we continue to offer the highest level of care to our clients.

Meet and Greet with Elina Clients and skincare enthusiasts had the rare opportunity to meet Elina in person, ask questions, and gain personalized recommendations. Her passion for holistic wellness was evident as she shared her philosophy on skincare, emphasizing the importance of natural, nutrient-rich ingredients that nourish from the inside out. Guests were delighted to hear directly from the formulator of the very products they love and trust.

A Day of Rejuvenating Spa Services To cap off the weekend, Elina treated select clients to exclusive spa services using her signature Elina Organics products. Each treatment was tailored to individual skincare needs, delivering radiant, glowing results. Those who experienced her expertise firsthand raved about the immediate improvements in their skin’s texture, hydration, and overall vitality.

A Lasting Impact Elina’s visit left a lasting impression on everyone at Naturally Radiant. Her knowledge, innovation, and dedication to holistic beauty inspire us to continue providing the best in natural skincare. We are incredibly grateful for her time and wisdom and look forward to implementing everything we learned to benefit our wonderful clients.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special event! If you missed it, don’t worry—our team is ready to bring the magic of Elina Organics to you with our newly refined techniques and treatments. Stay tuned for more exciting events at Naturally Radiant!

Have questions about holistic skincare? Stop by or book an appointment with our expert team today!

Celebrating 10 Years of Naturally Radiant Health & Wellness!

For a decade, Naturally Radiant has been empowering clients to reclaim their health—naturally! From the inside out, we provide personalized nutritional services to help you reach your best physical self. Discover the benefits of our organic skin care treatments, therapeutic massages, and transformative therapies like TRE, yoga, and stretch therapy to relieve pain, reduce stress, and restore balance.

Experience the rejuvenating power of our detox therapies, including infrared saunas, PEMF, ionic foot baths, and salt cave therapy to cleanse and recharge your body. Plus, our energy therapies help clear emotional blocks, fostering deep healing.

We’re beyond grateful for our incredible community of clients, partners, and supporters who’ve made this journey possible—and we’re just getting started!

Ready to take control of your health? Join us at Naturally Radiant and begin your journey to radiant wellness. Here’s to the next decade of transformation, healing, and natural vitality!

Hydration & Fun in the Sun!

As summertime approaches, staying hydrated, and using natural sunscreen options are essential to your health and wellbeing. Summertime fun, whether on vacation, lounging by a pool or ocean, walking or jogging, and enjoying outside activity, all can have serious consequences if dehydration or excess heat or sun exposure occurs. The skin, being the body’s largest detox organ, perspires as it regulates skin temperature and acts as the body’s natural cooling mechanism. Hydration and electrolyte balance to replace sodium and potassium and other essential minerals lost during this process. Here are some tips for protecting and hydrating skin:

√ Drink at least 8 glasses water daily adding additional water with physical activity

√Incorporate foods like watermelon, coconut water, lemon water, cucumbers, tomatoes and lettuce to boost hydration

√Avoid foods which have a diuretic effect like caffeine or alcohol

√Pay attention to other signs of heat stroke and dehydration like dry mouth, darker urine, and fatigue

√Regularly reapply natural sunscreen and seek shade to cool down

While proper hydration is key, protecting your skin from UV rays is paramount to promoting radiant and youthful skin. Sun protection in the form of sunscreen, proper eye protection, clothing, and protective headgear substantially reduce the risk of premature aging (wrinkles, fine lines, and sun spots) and skin cancer. Natural sunscreens contain inert ingredients that reflect (not absorb) UVA and UVB sun rays and are not absorbed transdermally. Minerals like zinc oxide provide broad spectrum protection without the added harsh chemicals that can cause both skin irritation or skin reactions.

~Keeley Lore

Tip: For sun burn prevention, try 6 Flax Seed Oil Plus and 6 Calcium Lactate tablets 2 hours prior to sun exposure! The calcium and omega 3 fatty acids can help protect the skin by providing nutrients needed for Vitamin D absorption.

Mama, You Still Matter!

As mothers, we often forget to take the time to hit “reset.” Yet, we expect ourselves to keep going at breakneck speed. Well, guess what? I want to let you in on a little secret. You are allowed to take time back for yourself, and you are allowed to hit pause and take time caring for you and you alone because...Mama, you still matter!

A good mother is simply a mother that loves with all of her heart and does the best she can. A good mother is also one who knows that she is allowed to be human and is willing to give herself grace; she must practice self care because she knows that if she allows herself to burn out and isn’t happy ain’t nobody gonna be happy! A “good mom” knows that she must pay attention to her physical, mental and spiritual health else she WILL break. So therefore, she cares for herself and she stops putting herself last. If self care seems shameful to you or does not come easy to you let me remind you to care for yourself once again, without any shame or guilt.  By doing this you will have the energy to be the happy, energetic, and the healthy mother you strive to be and that your family needs.

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

~Laura Heflin

The Interplay of Hormones, Nutrition, & Skin Health by Keeley Lore

In the heart of the Fredericksburg area, a beacon of holistic health and wellness shines through Naturally Radiant. Our wellness team is redefining health by emphasizing the crucial connection between proper nutrition, hormonal balance, and overall well-being. As advocates for inside-out healing, Naturally Radiant aims to fuel cell turnover rates and slow down premature aging, steering clear of traditional methods that often fall short.

Naturally Radiant underscores the significance of proper nutrition and hormonal balance in promoting overall well-being and maintaining healthy skin. The center contends that these elements play a pivotal role in both fueling cell turnover rates and slowing down premature aging. Addressing the detrimental effects of poor eating habits, including oxidative stress and anxiety leading to hormonal imbalances, Naturally Radiant emphasizes the need for a balanced diet and proper hydration to prevent skin issues such as rosacea, acne, eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, alopecia, dry and dull-toned skin, and premature wrinkles. In addition, inflammation resulting from a poor diet is recognized as a factor affecting metabolism, bone density, muscle strength and tone, blood sugar, and digestion.

Contrary to typical methods such as reducing or skipping meals, adhering to limited diets, and resorting to fad diets or toxic skincare treatments, Naturally Radiant advocates for a personalized approach. The center asserts that eating the right foods at the right time, in the right proportions, and ensuring optimal absorption of essential nutrients is critical to balancing hormones, improving health, and rejuvenating the skin.

A recent case study highlights the effectiveness of Naturally Radiant's approach. A client presented with hormonal imbalance, nutritional deficiencies, and related inflammatory and hormonally induced skin reactions. After just three visits with the center's Functional Nutritionists and Holistic Aestheticians, significant improvements were observed in the client's skin health and overall mental and physical well-being.

Naturally Radiant's guiding methodology is rooted in the belief that internal health directly reflects external beauty. The center surrounds individuals with highly trained and talented Natural Health Care Professionals committed to maximizing health from the inside out. Services range from Nutritional Support to Primary Care, Emotional Health, Detoxification Therapies, and Holistic Skincare for Face and Body, utilizing clean, all-natural products. The team at Naturally Radiant works collaboratively to design a comprehensive clinical plan for achieving optimal health.

Naturally Radiant invites individuals and their loved ones to explore a holistic approach to health and well-being. Whether seeking ways to facilitate the body's natural healing processes, achieve and maintain personal vitality, or simply look and feel the best, Naturally Radiant stands ready to help.

Are Your Hormones Aging You?

Did you know that hormones are created by glands which make up the endocrine system? They are like chemical messengers that signal tissue response in the body. They influence things like growth and development, metabolism – how your body gets energy from the foods you eat, sexual function, reproduction, mood, fatigue, & body temperature. Menopause and manopause is a real thing!

Hormones out of balance can lead to many health issues like diabetes, weight gain or loss, infertility, weak bones, skin issues, mood disorders, fatigue, and many other issues. Critical glandular functions are performed by various endocrine glands. For example, the Hypothalamus regulates body temperature, weight, mood, thirst, sleep, sex drive and release of hormones from other glands. The Adrenal Glands produce androgens and cortisol, hormone precursors, and regulates blood sugar. Our ovaries and testes are responsible for reproduction and produce estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone. Imagine the impact on the biological system when the latter two stop producing these crucial hormones placing even greater stress on the Adrenal Glands!

The Pancreas is maintains healthy blood sugar levels while the parathyroid is crucial in bone development an calcium absorption. These endocrine glands are meant to work in harmony like a beautiful symphony as we advance through the stages of life.

Did you know that your skin changes in response to hormonal changes? Estrogen and testosterone levels affect oily skin during puberty and menstrual cycles. Male hormones (androgens) increase oil production in sebaceous glands, female pattern hair loss, and excessive hair growth.  Estrogen is also linked to increase in collagen production, skin thickness, hydration and wound healing. Puberal and peri menopausal women have higher levels of estrogen than post menopausal women. This can lead to things like excessive weight gain, sweaty skin, hair loss, dryness, acne, fine & wrinkles, rosacea, & hyperpigmentation (age spots).

We can improve physical, mental and skin health by balancing hormones with correct dietary choices, nutrient supports and physical activity. Skin should be protected at all times with reflective natural sun screens. Select topical products that feed, nourish, and rejuvenate skin while repairing and restoring skin with regular professional face and body treatments.

~Keeley

Fall is A Great Time for Full Body Cleanse!

Fall is A Great Time for Full Body Cleanse!

A Word About Cleansing…Many of you have worked with Naturally Radiant in some sort of body cleanse or detox. Cleansing is very effective when done on a seasonal basis, usually in the spring and fall. Cleansing in the spring was designed to cope with a possible toxic overload linked to a winter diet heavy in meat and grains. A spring cleanse relieves the digestive tract of cold weather stagnation. A fall cleanse was used to rid the body of parasites which had accumulated over the summer and to tone the digestive tract for a long winter. But life is not so simple anymore. We are exposed to many more toxins today. As a result, many natural health practitioners are now recommending more frequent cleanses. Herbs and nutrients found in organic food sources can provide detoxifying effects on the body to boost its immune system and to aid the body in healing itself. Cleanses can assist in strengthening the body’s immune system reducing instances of inflammation, depression and anxiety, rashes and other diseases. There are super products available to help you cleanse, contact one of our Holistic Therapists at Naturally Radiant to chose the cleanse that best meets your individual needs!

Keeley Lore, Owner of Naturally Radiant & Naturally Radiant Practitioner

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Back-to-School Immune Tips:

Building and maintaining healthy immune function depends on diet, proper sleep, management of stress, and proper exercise. Here are some tips to support healthy immune:

- Eating Whole Foods and avoiding sugar and white starches

- Increase movement and exercise

- Stress Reduction

- Adequate Sleep

Sugars in the diet increase inflammatory stress making it harder to fight off germs. Watch those sugar laden diets during this upcoming Holiday Season. Consider substituting monk fruit in your Holiday baking and add plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet. Try herbal immune supports during cold and flu season like Echinacea, Andrographis, Elderberry with other natural vitamins and minerals that support immune (A, C, D, Zinc).  Physical activity promotes lymphatic system and circulatory flow boosting immune health. Likewise, adequate amounts of sleep are important for a healthy immune system.  Transition is always stressful, and stress stimulates the immune system. Work with your children to ease into this school year and incorporate breathing and other self-soothing techniques and strategies to ease anxiety.

Tips for safe fun in the sun!

It's important to wear sunscreen. But sunscreen may not always be enough. Try combining any of the following tips to find a method that works for you. These steps can help you protect your skin, even on overcast days:

• Avoid or limit your time in the sun.

• Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, we recommend, Elina Organics Sun Day Sunscreen spf 35.

• Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.

• Stay in the shade when the sun is the strongest (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.)

• Cover up with clothing.

• Wear a hat and sunglasses.

• Make sure you do not burn.

In the unfortunate event you or your loved ones do get burned, here are some tips and items you may want to pack:

• Elina Organics Skin Recovery Protective Healing Cream.

• Standard Process Calcium Lactate - Among other things this wonder supplement reduces inflammation and supports normal function of cells and cell membranes.

• Standard Process Cataplex F Tablets - These tablets are loaded with essential fatty acids helping to transfer calcium to tissues aiding and preventing sun burn, sun sensitivity and sun poisoning.

• Aloe Vera gel or liquid with no additives - apply several times a day to unbroken skin and allow to dry.

• Apple Cider Vinegar- Add 1-2 cups to tepid bath water and soak for 30 minutes. Alternatively, combine 1 part ACV to 7 parts water and use this mixture for a compress.

• Essential Oils- Peppermint essential oil is cooling and analgesic, making it a great choice for painful, burned skin. Lavender essential oil supports a healthy inflammatory response and microbial balance, and can speed healing. Consider other oils such as Rose geranium, helichrysum, and chamomile. Dilute oils prior to application. Consider using aloe gel or creating a spritz by combining 20-40 drops of essential oil with 1 tablespoon ACV and 5 ounces of water in a spray bottle.

• Herbs- Soothe sunburn with herbs that are cooling, soothing, high in tannins, and promote wound healing. Consider green and black tea, plantain, comfrey, Calendula, St. John's wort, witch hazel, chamomile, and lavender. Use these herbs in compresses, sprays, salves, and infused in vinegar.

• Baths- Baths with common household ingredients can also alleviate redness and burning. Try an oatmeal bath by placing 1-2 cups finely ground oatmeal into an old sock, tying it off, and soaking with it in tepid bath water for 15-30 minutes. Baking soda is another option. Pour 1-2 cups baking soda into a tepid bath and soak for 30 minutes.

  These methods work well alone and in combination. Cold compresses and baths are helpful in the early stages for immediate relief. Once the burn has cooled, salves and lotions can be great for healing skin.

  To support healing from the inside out, eat plenty of foods high in the antioxidant Vitamin C, such as fruits and veggies, to combat free radical damage. Finally, stay hydrated to replenish lost moisture and support recovery.

  Safe and Healthy Travels! ~ Keeley Lore, Owner of Naturally Radiant & Naturally Radiant Practitioner

Summer Solstice

June brings us hotter weather, visits to the beach, and more outdoor fun. It also includes the summer solstice which occurs on Wednesday, June 21. The summer solstice marks the start of the summer months and the longest day of the year before the nights start growing shorter again. During the days leading up to the solstice, the ancient Romans celebrated Vesta, goddess of hearth, home, and family. Today, many people celebrate during the evening prior with a fire outdoors and a gathering of friends. We have some suggested rituals you may want to try as a way to honor the coming of the summer season while letting go of seasons past.

• Letting Go: While spring may be known as the season for cleaning, the summer solstice is another opportunity to let go of items that no longer serve you. It’s the perfect time to assess items in your winter wardrobe: are there any you did not wear during the winter? What’s keeping you from donating them or selling them through consignment? Are there other closets (or even just a drawer) in your home that house items you have not used in the past year or longer? We may need certain items for occasional use, but the solstice gives us an opportunity to reassess and let go of things that may be weighing us down, whether metaphorically or in actuality. 

• Nurture Growth: Plant flowers or vegetables in your yard, if you have one, or grow a plant from seed in a pot if you live in a condo or apartment. Digging in dirt is literally a grounding activity which supports our root chakra and calms our nervous system. This ritual is also a wonderful symbol for self-care and can reinforce your intentions to nurture yourself in the coming months.

• Release List: Create a list of what you wish to release during the summer season and burn it safely in a fire. Things you may want to release could include unhealthy habits, toxic patterns, unsupportive beliefs about yourself, the desire to control others, addictive behaviors, and more.  Maybe events occurred in the past that brought you pain and suffering. A release ritual can support your desire to move past those events and look toward a better future. The act of writing your list and then burning it in the fire symbolizes and strengthens your intention to make these changes in your life. If fires make you nervous, you can also pour some salt on a plastic cutting board and write a word in the salt that represents what you wish to let go. Say a prayer of release and then let water from a pitcher, a garden hose, or your faucet wash it all away.

Happy Solstice, Everyone!   ~ Elizabeth Hensley, Naturally Radiant Practitioner