Understanding the Digestive Process Carbohydrate Digestion: Begins in the mouth where food is chewed, activating enzymes. The Liver and Gallbladder: Work together to produce and store bile, which is essential for fat digestion. Bile is released into the stomach during digestion. The liver also detoxifies the blood. Stomach’s Role: Acidic environment breaks down food, kills pathogens, and prevents GERD when properly acidified. Small Intestine: Home to the microbiome, crucial for immune health and nutrient absorption. Works with the appendix to repopulate gut flora after illness. Large Intestine: Absorbs water and vitamins, storing waste until elimination. Digestive Concerns? Look to Enzymes …

What is a Cleanse? A cleanse is a way to support your body in eliminating toxins and harmful substances that accumulate from everyday exposure to environmental pollutants, processed foods, and stress. These “toxins” can include synthetic chemicals, pesticides, and substances that burden the body’s detoxification processes. Why Should You Cleanse? Cleansing can: Kick-start weight loss: A cleanse helps reset your body and improve nutrient absorption, making it easier to reach weight-loss goals. Boost energy levels: Removing toxins frees your body from energy-draining processes. Support the immune system: A healthier internal environment helps your body fight infections more effectively. Improve digestion: …

What Are Adaptogen Herbs? Adaptogen herbs help the body maintain balance by regulating two primary systems: the endocrine (hormonal) and nervous systems. These powerful botanicals support the body’s ability to adapt to stress, whether physical, emotional, or environmental. Adaptogens work their magic by influencing the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, helping to normalize stress hormone levels, such as cortisol. By doing so, they promote overall well-being, enhance resilience, and support energy and immune function. Adaptogens have been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Indigenous healing practices. These herbs help the body achieve homeostasis, meaning …

Nature has a way of providing just what we need, and few herbs exemplify this better than nettles (Urtica dioica). Often dismissed as a pesky weed, nettles are, in fact, one of the most valuable plants in the herbalist’s toolkit. Thriving in the wild landscapes of Alaska, this nutrient-rich herb offers a wealth of medicinal benefits that have been recognized for centuries. Where Do Nettles Grow? Nettles are a hardy, perennial plant that flourishes in nutrient-rich soil, often near rivers, forests, and disturbed areas. In Alaska, they can be found along stream banks, in meadows, and at the edges of …

Living in Alaska means embracing the beauty of rugged landscapes, unique wildlife, and awe-inspiring seasons. However, alongside these joys comes the challenge of long, dark winters with limited sunlight. This lack of sunlight affects more than your mood—it impacts your body’s ability to produce vitamin D, a critical nutrient for overall health. In this guide, we’ll explore why vitamin D is so essential, especially for Alaskans, and how to ensure you get enough to stay healthy year-round. What is Vitamin D? Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a pivotal role in maintaining your health. Often referred to as …