Moringa, a super food!

What Is Moringa?

Moringa oleifera, often called the “drumstick tree” or “miracle tree,” is a nutrient-packed plant widely used for its potential medicinal and nutritional benefits. Its leaves, pods, seeds, and roots are commonly consumed as powders, teas, or oils.

When choosing moringa products, it’s important to opt for organic and high-quality sources to avoid contamination with pesticides or heavy metals.

Potential Health Benefits of Moringa

1️⃣ Rich in Nutrients

• Vitamins: Moringa may provide vitamins A, C, and E, which support immunity, skin health, and antioxidative functions.

• Minerals: It may be a good source of calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium, which are vital for bone health, muscle function, and energy.

• Protein: Moringa contains amino acids, including essential ones, making it a potential plant-based protein option.

2️⃣ Antioxidant Properties

• Moringa may help combat oxidative stress with compounds like quercetin and chlorogenic acid, which can protect cells and reduce inflammation.

3️⃣ Supports Blood Sugar Regulation

• Some studies suggest that moringa may help reduce blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, thanks to compounds like isothiocyanates.

4️⃣ Anti-Inflammatory Effects

• Moringa may reduce inflammation, which is linked to conditions like arthritis, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders.

5️⃣ Heart Health

• Regular use of moringa may help lower cholesterol and support healthy blood pressure, contributing to cardiovascular health.

6️⃣ Brain Support

• Moringa may provide neuroprotective effects and support mood and memory, potentially lowering the risk of cognitive decline.

7️⃣ Digestive Health

• With its fiber content, moringa may support digestion, reduce constipation, and help maintain gut health.

8️⃣ Hormonal Balance

• Moringa may help regulate hormones, especially during menopause, and could alleviate symptoms of hormonal fluctuations.

9️⃣ Skin and Hair Health

• Moringa oil may help hydrate skin, reduce signs of aging, and support hair growth due to its antioxidant and fatty acid content.

10️⃣ Immune Function

• Its vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants may strengthen the immune system and support the body’s ability to fight infections.

How to Use Moringa

• Powder: Add to smoothies, soups, or teas (start with 1 teaspoon daily).

• Tea: Brew dried moringa leaves for a calming herbal drink.

• Capsules: A convenient option for busy days.

• Oil: Use for skin hydration or hair care.

Tips for Use

• Choose organic: Organic moringa is grown without harmful pesticides or chemicals, ensuring a cleaner and more potent product.

• Combine with healthy fats: Fat-soluble vitamins in moringa (like A and E) are better absorbed when paired with healthy fats such as nuts or avocados.

• Start slow: If you’re new to moringa, start with a small amount to see how your body reacts.

Moringa may offer many potential benefits, but individual results can vary. For the best results, choose organic, high-quality products, and consult a healthcare provider to see if it’s right for you.

📞 Questions? Contact Clark Wellness at 254-227-5851 or visit www.clarkwellnesstx.com for more information!

Acne, what is your body trying to tell you:

Acne isn’t just about skin care—it’s often connected to deeper issues in your body. Understanding where you’re breaking out can provide clues to the root cause.

🌿 Forehead & Temples: Digestive Issues

Root Cause: Poor digestion, food sensitivities (like dairy or gluten), dehydration, or overconsumption of processed foods.

Tip:

• Stay hydrated—aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily.

• Avoid common triggers like dairy, gluten, and sugary or processed foods.

• Add probiotics (like Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium strains) and digestive enzymes to support gut health.

• Consider herbal teas

🌿 Between the Eyebrows: Liver Overload

Root Cause: A stressed liver from toxins, processed foods, alcohol, or environmental pollutants.

Tip:

• Eat liver-friendly foods like leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale), and beets.

• Reduce alcohol, fried foods, and artificial sweeteners.

• Support detox with supplements

🌿 Nose: Heart, Blood Pressure & Gut Health

Root Cause: Poor circulation, imbalanced blood pressure, or gut dysbiosis from inflammatory foods or low fiber intake.

Tip:

• Incorporate heart-healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and omega-3s (from fish or flaxseed oil).

• Avoid high-sugar and high-sodium foods.

• Add fiber-rich foods like oats, chia seeds, and vegetables to nourish gut health.

🌿 Cheeks: Lungs, Respiratory Issues & Hormonal Imbalance

Root Cause: Pollution, smoking, respiratory issues, or hormonal changes.

Tip:

• Avoid smoking and reduce exposure to air pollution where possible.

• Cleanse skin thoroughly at the end of the day to remove dirt and toxins.

• Balance hormones with adaptogenic herbs or supplements such as magnesium or evening primrose oil.

🌿 Jawline & Chin: Hormonal Imbalance

Root Cause: Fluctuating hormones (e.g., excess testosterone), often linked to menstrual cycles, PCOS, or stress.

Tip:

• Reduce sugar and refined carbs to stabilize blood sugar and insulin levels.

• Add zinc, DIM (diindolylmethane), or vitex (chasteberry) to help balance hormones.

• Prioritize stress management techniques like meditation, stretching, or deep breathing.

🌿 Around the Mouth: Digestive & Hormonal Changes

Root Cause: Digestive issues like food intolerances, high stress, or changes in hormone levels.

Tip:

• Avoid trigger foods like dairy, gluten, or fried foods.

• Support digestion with fermented foods (like kimchi or sauerkraut) or apple cider vinegar before meals.

• Take magnesium or methylated B-complex vitamins to regulate stress and hormone production.

🌿 Back: Hormonal Imbalance & Hygiene

Root Cause: Hormonal imbalances, sweating, and improper cleansing can clog pores on the back.

Tip:

• Shower immediately after sweating and use gentle, non-comedogenic body cleansers.

• Wear breathable fabrics to reduce irritation.

• Consider omega-3 supplements and evening primrose oil to help reduce inflammation from within.

💡 The Bottom Line: Acne is a signal that something deeper might be out of balance. If you’re tired of fighting stubborn breakouts, we can help uncover the root cause and provide personalized solutions.

📞 Call us at 254-227-5851 or visit www.clarkwellnesstx.com to book a consultation today.

Please do not make changes without first consulting with your health care provider. This article is for educational purposes only, this is not a medical advice.

How to put an autoimmune condition into remission

At Clark Wellness, we use the functional medicine approach to help our patients live life to the fullest. Putting autoimmune diseases into remission through a functional medicine approach focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying root causes that trigger and sustain the immune response. This often involves personalized lifestyle and nutritional changes, environmental detoxification, and targeted support to reduce inflammation, improve gut health, and modulate the immune system.

Here’s a breakdown of key steps often used in a functional medicine approach:

1. Identify and Eliminate Triggers

• Food Sensitivities: Common trigger foods for autoimmunity include gluten, dairy, and sugar. An elimination diet or testing for sensitivities may help identify specific triggers.

• Environmental Toxins: Heavy metals, mold, and chemicals can overstimulate the immune system. Minimizing exposure through air and water purification, avoiding processed products, and organic eating can reduce these impacts.

• Infections: Underlying infections like Epstein-Barr virus, Lyme disease, or Candida can aggravate autoimmunity. Treating infections when identified may reduce immune activation.

2. Support Gut Health

• Repair Leaky Gut: Since gut health is closely linked to immune function, healing a “leaky” or permeable gut can help. This often involves a combination of diet, probiotics, and supplements like L-glutamine, zinc, and collagen.

• Probiotics and Prebiotics: A balanced microbiome helps regulate the immune system. Including fermented foods and high-fiber foods to feed beneficial bacteria can be beneficial.

3. Reduce Inflammation

• Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Emphasize whole, unprocessed foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids (from sources like fish, flaxseed, and walnuts), and fiber.

• Curcumin, Omega-3s, and Polyphenols: Supplements like turmeric (curcumin), fish oil, and green tea extract can help reduce inflammation and support immune health.

4. Balance Immune Function

• Vitamin D: Low levels of Vitamin D are associated with many autoimmune conditions. Optimal levels support immune modulation and may reduce the risk of flare-ups.

• Adaptogens: Herbs like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil can help balance the stress response, which can indirectly influence immune health.

• Immune Modulators: Natural compounds like low-dose naltrexone (LDN) are sometimes used to reduce autoimmune activity by modulating the immune response.

5. Optimize Lifestyle Factors

• Stress Management: Chronic stress worsens autoimmune conditions. Practices like meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, and adequate sleep are essential.

• Regular, Low-Impact Exercise: Movement can reduce inflammation and support detoxification. However, it’s important to avoid overly strenuous exercise, as this can sometimes trigger flares.

• Sleep: Quality sleep is vital for repair, immune regulation, and inflammation reduction.

6. Functional Testing and Personalized Supplementation

• Comprehensive Testing: Functional tests can identify the root cause, such as nutrient deficiencies, hormone imbalances, and metabolic factors that may affect immune health.

• Personalized Supplements: Based on test results, supplements like magnesium, B vitamins, or adaptogenic herbs can be tailored to individual needs.

Autoimmune remission often requires time and a tailored approach. Functional medicine providers may adjust treatment plans as the body responds, making patient-centered care essential for long-term success.

Angelica Clark PA-C is a certified functional medicine practitioner with over 16 yrs of experience and she can help anyone in Texas in person or via telemedicine visits to help you navigate the journey of living with an autoimmune condition.

Call us today at (254) 227-5851