Comparison of drug delivery methods: pill digestion through liver and transdermal patch absorption through skin layers
Articles

Low Dose Hormone Replacement Therapy: Why Dose, Form, and Route Change Everything

The article discusses the complexity of hormone therapy decisions for women, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches rather than a simple yes or no on hormone usage. It highlights the importance of considering dosage, delivery methods, and the specific hormones involved, particularly differentiating between types of progestogens. Local vaginal estrogen therapy is presented as a safe, effective option for many issues while cautioning against compounded bioidentical hormones. Women are encouraged to ask informed questions about their treatment options.

Jar of colorful pickled vegetables surrounded by fresh produce
Articles

Fermented Foods: A Return to Ancient Wisdom

Fermentation, an ancient practice, nurtures beneficial microbes that enhance both food and health. While modern conveniences led to a loss of this instinct, returning to fermentation can support gut health, immune function, and overall well-being. Upcoming articles will explore specific ferments, emphasizing their role in holistic healing and nourishment.

Antique brass balance scale weighing a percentage symbol and metal weights
Hormones

Hormone Replacement Therapy Cancer Risk: What the Headlines Got Wrong

In July 2002, a headline linked hormone replacement therapy to a 26% breast cancer risk increase, causing widespread fear among women. However, the actual numbers reveal a minimal absolute risk increase, and certain hormone therapies may even lower breast cancer risk. This miscommunication led to decades of unnecessary suffering among women, overshadowing the nuanced truth about hormone therapy.

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Articles

Allulose and GLP-1: The Sweetener That Lowers Blood Sugar

This article concludes a series about sweeteners, focusing on allulose, a rare sugar with potential benefits for lowering blood sugar. Unlike other sweeteners, allulose activates GLP-1, enhancing insulin response and glucose regulation. While human studies show promising results, more extensive research is needed to fully understand its effects and safety.

Stevia leaves beside a dropper bottle labeled Natural Stevia Extract
Articles

Stevia and Gut Health: The Gentler Sweetener

Stevia is widely favored as a non-nutritive sweetener due to its plant origin and safety profile compared to other sweeteners like sucralose and saccharin. While human studies show stevia does not impair glucose tolerance, laboratory findings indicate it may affect gut bacteria. Caution is advised, with more research needed for clarity.

Research paper on nonnutritive sweeteners beside blood sample, sugar bowl, and raspberry mint drink
Articles

Erythritol and Cardiovascular Risk: What New Research Shows

Recent research published in Nature Medicine reveals that erythritol, a common sweetener, significantly increases cardiovascular risks. A study showed that consuming 30 grams raised blood erythritol levels over a thousandfold, making platelets more reactive, leading to clotting. While regulatory bodies still consider it safe, the implications for health merit careful reconsideration.

Colorful microscopic scene filled with cells, microbes, and organic structures
Articles

Sweeteners and Gut Health: What Your CGM Isn’t Telling You

Recent research challenges the perception of non-nutritive sweeteners like sucralose and saccharin as safe simply because they don’t spike blood sugar. Studies show these sweeteners can harm gut microbiota and impair glucose tolerance, while aspartame and stevia have less severe effects. Individual gut bacteria also influence responses to these substances.

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Articles

What’s New at Healthy in Heart: July 2026 Update

In July, I actively engaged in writing, launching my debut fiction book, “Hold the Line: Chain of Custody,” which is receiving positive feedback. I introduced the Book Insider’s Club for reader involvement and shared ongoing projects, including a crochet pattern and wellness programs. This season reminds me that growth is a gradual process.