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IVY Integrative / About IVY / Journal
Journal
Welcome to our integrative health journal, where our team of holistic practitioners shares their expertise to help you achieve optimal well-being. Each month, we delve into a new theme, providing you with insightful articles, practical tips, and the latest in holistic health trends. Whether you're interested in nutrition, natural remedies, mental health, or physical fitness, our diverse team of experts offers a wealth of knowledge to support your wellness journey. Join us as we explore the multifaceted world of holistic health and empower you to live your healthiest life.
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Why Some People Don't Fully Recover from Lyme Disease
For some individuals, symptoms continue long after a tick bite or even after completing multiple rounds of treatment. Persistent fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, headaches, and other ongoing symptoms are often associated with chronic Lyme disease or Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS). When symptoms persist despite appropriate treatment, it's important to look beyond Lyme disease alone. One commonly overlooked factor is the presence of co-infections. What Are Lyme Co-
Dr. Caitlan Readhead, ND
22 hours ago3 min read
Natural Ways to Support Gut Health During Seasonal Changes
Simple Tips to Reduce Bloating, Improve Digestion & Support Your Gut Microbiome Naturally As the seasons change, most of us expect shifts in the weather, allergies, and even our mood—but many people are surprised to find that their digestion changes too. If you've noticed more bloating, constipation, food sensitivities, sluggish digestion, or changes in your energy during the transition from one season to the next, you're certainly not alone. Our digestive system is incredibl
Dr. Katrina Robinson, NDM, PMNHP-MFT, CHN
Jun 295 min read
Why Does Eczema Flare in the Summer? The Science Behind Summer Eczema and Natural Support Strategies
What Is Eczema? Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and irritated skin. While it appears on the surface, eczema is much more than a skin-deep issue. It develops through a complex interaction between genetics, immune function, environmental exposures, and the skin barrier itself. Healthy skin acts as a protective shield, keeping moisture in and irritants out. In individuals with eczema, this barrier is
Dr. Chelsea Birch, ND, RH (AHG), CBHT
Jun 225 min read
Importance of Detox Pathways with Mold Illness
Why Supporting Detoxification Matters During Mold Recovery Exposure to toxic mold can have a significant impact on overall health. Certain species of mold produce mycotoxins, harmful compounds that can trigger a wide range of symptoms and contribute to both acute and chronic illness. People experiencing mold illness often report symptoms such as: Chronic fatigue Brain fog Headaches Digestive concerns Skin issues Mood changes Poor sleep Allergy-like symptoms While reducing mol
Dr. Caitlan Readhead, ND
Jun 192 min read
Your Skin Is What You Eat: The Gut-Skin Connection Behind Eczema & Inflammation
Deadlines are approaching, bills are due, and summer schedules are filling up fast. During stressful seasons of life, many people naturally reach for comfort foods like pastries, soft drinks, candy, or ice cream. While these foods may provide temporary relief, consistently consuming excess added sugar can negatively impact the gut microbiome and contribute to inflammation throughout the body — including the skin. When the gut microbiome becomes imbalanced, a condition known a
Melanie Baughman, BS
Jun 83 min read
Why Acne Often Returns After Antibiotics: A Root-Cause Approach to Clearer Skin
Acne is often treated as a surface-level skin condition, but from a naturopathic and functional medicine perspective, acne is rarely just about the skin. While topical treatments, antibiotics, and skincare products may temporarily reduce breakouts, they often fail to address the deeper imbalances contributing to chronic inflammation, hormonal disruption, and immune dysfunction. As a result, many people experience acne that repeatedly returns despite trying multiple products a
Dr. Stephanie Hendershot, ND
Jun 13 min read
Can a Gluten-Free Diet Help Parkinson’s Symptoms? The Gut-Brain Connection Explained
Over the years, many clinicians working with individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease have observed a recurring theme: diet can significantly influence daily symptoms. In particular, high intake of gluten and sugar has been associated with increased inflammation, digestive issues, and fluctuations in energy and cognition. While more large-scale research is needed, clinical observations and emerging studies suggest that reducing gluten may support both motor and non-moto
Dr. Sarah Kingsley, PT, DPT, RYT
May 263 min read
This Is Your Gut Microbiome: How Alcohol and Tobacco Affect Gut Health
The human gut microbiome is often referred to as the body’s “second brain” — and for good reason. This vast ecosystem of trillions of microorganisms influences digestion, immunity, inflammation, metabolism, hormone balance, and even mental health. But everyday lifestyle habits like alcohol consumption and tobacco use can significantly disrupt this delicate balance. Understanding how smoking and alcohol affect the gut microbiome may help explain why these habits are linked to
Dr. Kellyann Tomko, ND
May 193 min read
When Should You Consider a GI-MAP Test?
If you’ve been dealing with ongoing digestive issues, fatigue, or unexplained symptoms, you may have heard about comprehensive stool testing in functional medicine. One of the most advanced options is the GI-MAP test—but what exactly is it, and when should you consider it? What Is a GI-MAP Test? A GI-MAP (Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus) is a comprehensive stool analysis that evaluates the health of your gut microbiome and digestive function. Unlike standard stool tests
Dr. Caitlan Readhead, ND
May 112 min read
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