July Notes from Dr. Klug

A Naturopathic Medical Mission at the Ukrainian Border

I found this interview with Decker Weiss, ND to be a great summer read. From his analogy of war as “chronic inflammation writ large” in the “societal tissue,” to how this mission in Ukraine compared to others he conducted in Haiti and Iraq, to his research on how war changes our brain chemistry, I trust you will be moved.

What’s In My Smoothie? Kyoord

A bit of fat in my smoothie carries me into the afternoon. I recently changed to Kyoord olive oil from a small farm in Corfu, Greece. This oil is extremely high in the polyphenol Oleocanthal, which has been proven toxic to cancer cells. It is high in other polyphenols as well, 8 times more than most, the company claims. As such, they recommend only 1 tablespoon daily, versus 5 tablespoons for most olive oils. This is a better option for people who must eat a lower fat diet. This olive oil has a strong but delicious taste, indicative of its polyphenol content. I add 1 tablespoon to my blender bottle, pour in my smoothie, shake and enjoy! Get 10% off here.

A Key to Normal Weight and Metabolism: Rhythm!

It’s those little gut bugs again! A mouse study published this month found that their gut microbiome controls their circadian rhythm, and with that, the regulation and control of glucose, cholesterol and fatty acids — and overall metabolic health. But, there is a big if. Mice that ate how much and whenever they wanted lost their circadian rhythm and became obese and diabetic. Those put on a set eating schedule with a controlled quantity of food, maintained a healthy microbiome that properly controlled their circadian rhythm and metabolism. We also know that a set sleep and wake time plays a role in a healthy circadian rhythm and metabolism. Rhythm, whether you can move to the beat or not, may be key to good health.

My husband had a wonderful take on this. He wondered when families or households regularly enjoy communal meals together–same food, same time–if their clocks would synchronize, creating more harmony in the household. Communal meals are understood to promote the production of feel good neurotransmitters. Perhaps better synchronized circadian rhythms are part of this too.

Hot Weather Refresher

We had ants this year. I cleaned the cabinets where they took up residence and found among other forgotten treasures, dried hibiscus flowers. Hibiscus is so refreshing and has many healthful qualities. I created a recipe for a hibiscus refresher that has been perfect for this hot weather. I’ve taken on more gardening than before because my landscape maintenance company has been short staffed. This hibiscus refresher has restored my electrolyte balance after a time or two feeling woozy after gardening in the heat. Now I make sure to have a few shots of it while I am gardening to stay in balance, in addition to plenty of water.

Hibiscus Refresher Inspired by AfroVitalityEats.com

• 1 – half gallon mason jar
• 2 quarts water
• 1/4 cup dried hibiscus flowers
• 1-inch piece ginger, thinly sliced
• 1/2 lime, thinly sliced
• 2-4 sprigs fresh mint, rubbed and crushed to bring out flavor
• Sweetener if desired (I don’t use it)

Add all ingredients except sweetener to the mason jar and fill with water. Sit in sun for 2 – 4 hours. Strain, sweeten if desired, and chill in refrigerator before serving, or serve over ice. I will often let it sit outside overnight to take on some moon energy!

After reading this post, a patient reminded me that not everyone is an urban homesteader like me who loves to make things from scratch! Any of the Celestial Seasonings “Zinger” teas will do the trick. Firepot Nomadic Teas Hibiscus Elixir is my favorite way to hydrate during our mid-hike rests. All are caffeine-free.

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Dr. Bethany Klug has practiced holistic and functional medicine since 2003, after it resolved health challenges that conventional medicine could not address for her. She is known for taking time to listen and to tease out the root causes that when addressed lead to more vibrant health. The name of her practice, HealthSpan, was inspired by her wish for everyone to enjoy lifelong vibrant health, instead of a long life plagued by chronic disease. She is known as an osteopath, and for her skill in natural medicine and bioidentical hormone replacement. Her practice is located in Prairie Village, KS, a suburb of Kansas City. Learn more at HealthSpanKC.com.

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