Clearstem

First up is Clearstem. I’ve personally been using and loving their Bounceback Serum (like botox, but safe), Hydraglow moisturizer (the dreamiest every day moisturizer) and Hydraberry night cream (the most hydrating product out there- that also functions as a mask).

These products are formulated without endocrine disrupters and toxins. The three products mentioned above have made my skin hydrated, smooth and looking younger every single day.

They are also super easy to travel with- which is a must for me!

If you haven’t tried them- I highly suggest it- use my code REVIVEHW to save 15% at check out as well.

Shop Clearsteam

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Have you ever thought about your skin as part of your immune system?

It sounds so strange- how could our SKIN be a part of our immune system? Isn’t our immune system inside our body? Yes and No, let’s start with some “skin” facts to set the stage.

The skin is the largest organ in your entire body!! Read that again. Let it sink in.

Our skin is our first line of defense against the outside world.

Environmental toxins, bug bites, cuts, scratches, burns- everything!! It is constantly working 24/7 to protect us from pathogens, bacteria and viruses. So how does it do that? With its immunity!

The skins immune system is home to roughly 20 billion T-cells. 20 billion! That’s more than the T-cells in your blood- which is pretty crazy. These specialized fighting cells are in charge of protecting the body from infection, cancer, toxins, autoimmunity, and our external environment. The skin’s layers contain cells from both the innate and adaptive immune systems - which allow the skin to actively fight infections, bacteria and viruses if/when exposed.

“Topically the skin is home to over 1,000 bacterial and fungal species that inhabit different parts of the skin. These helpful microbiota promote skin immunity by inducing a basal level of immune activation, which protects us against other infections."

“Internally our immune system is comprised of special organs, cells and chemicals that fight infection/disease. The main parts of the immune system are: white blood cells, antibodies, the complement system, the lymphatic system, the spleen, the thymus, and the bone marrow. These are the parts of your immune system that actively fight infection.”

As you can see the skin is a dynamic organ made of different layers of cells and their related glands. These immune protective layers are activated when the tissue is under attack. When these immune cells are triggered they go to work by capturing, processing and destroying the invader. Think of your skin as the front line of soldiers in a war. They are ready, willing and capable of stopping and destroying any invaders your skin comes in contact with.

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So, what’s the key to making sure these immune cells work properly? It’s simple, whole-nutrient- dense foods which supply a variety of immune boosting vitamins and minerals.

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Internal support comes from the food we eat and supplements we use.

External support comes from making better choices with the products we use on our skin and in our homes.

Starting with food and supplements- let’s dive in to discuss which foods you should be consuming daily to support your skin-immune health.

**As always please consult your doctor prior to taking any supplements.

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Food recommendation:

Eat orange and yellow fruits/veggies

These colorful foods are filled with Vitamin A and C. Vitamin A is a fat soluble vitamin which promotes skin cell growth and turnover, while also preventing acne. Vitamin A is also known to help keep pores open and clear. When the body is deficient in vitamin A, dead skin cells build-up, clogging pores, and triggering breakouts.

Vitamin C is a collagen boosting nutrient and a huge anti-oxidant. Meaning it will protect your cells against free radicals and UV damage.

Supplement recommendation:

Take Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps boost collagen production, capture and destroy harmful free-radicals, it brightens the skin, repairs sun- damaged skin and reduces discoloration from scaring and or sun/brown spots. Vitamin C has also been shown to shorten colds, prevent infections, protect against viruses and boost the immune system, which includes skin immunity.

Food Recommendation:

Eat dark green veggies

Dark green foods such as kale, broccoli, avocados, spinach, kohlrabi and arugula are skin “super foods.” They are packed with healthy prebiotics and Vitamins A, C and E.

These vitamins are powerful antioxidants that support skin cell regeneration and offer free radical protection. Avocados give your skin an extra boost using their monounsaturated fatty acid complex which helps reduce oxidative stress, while protecting the skin from sun damage. Prebiotics offer essential food for the healthy bacteria in your gut, which help control skin inflammation, acne and oil production.

Supplement recommendation:

Vitamins A,D,E and K

The fat soluble vitamins A,D,E and K are all important when it comes to skin health. These vitamins keep your skin looking plump, supple and firm. They prevent wrinkles, manage oil production, help capture free radicals, reduce acne and so much more.

Vitamins A & E are both powerful anti-oxidants that fight free radicals, inflammation, infection and prevent cells from oxidative damage.

Vitamin D is essential to immune health. It will protect you against infections, viruses and less serious illnesses like common colds and the flu.

Vitamin D also controls inflammation and helps in skin cell growth, repair and metabolism. Vitamin D is also super important for the melanin or pigment of your skin.

Vitamin K is essential for helping the skin heal. When you get a cut or bruise- Vitamin K is the one to help. Vitamin K is also helpful for spider veins, dark spots, circles under the eyes and stretch marks.

Don’t forget about Probiotics

Probiotics are essential to our overall health and play a crucial role in the health of our skin. The bacteria in our gut affect everything from our mood, cravings, weight, thoughts, habits, sleep patterns, immune health and so much more. In terms of skin immunity- probiotics are key for stimulating secretion of IgA and regulatory T cells, which support immune function.

It is very important to make sure you are taking a high quality probiotic. Many out there are poor quality and could actually be harming your body instead of helping it.

This is the probiotic I recommend and use- Megasporebiotic.

Food Recommendation:

Berries are key!

Blueberries and strawberries have strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, glucose-regulating and collagen boosting effects. Which basically means that these berries can help you age gracefully, while protecting and nourishing your skin. Think minimizing wrinkles and creating plump-supple looking skin.

Supplement Recommendation:

Zinc and Collagen

Zinc is another powerful anti-oxidant that is required for the normal functioning of the skin. Zinc helps keep acne at bay while also protecting the skin from free radical damage. Zinc is critical for immune health as it acts as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and is necessary for the production of immune cells.

Zinc has the ability to lessen colds and promote healthy cell division, while preventing cancerous cells from forming.

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and as we age our natural supply of collagen decreases. Consuming collagen as a supplement helps support the skins structure, stability and strength. With this support the integrity of the skin is increased- which helps prevents bacteria and other harmful elements from entering into the body.

I highly recommend and take Further Food Collagen powder.

Food Recommendation:

Eat those nuts!

Many tree nuts are high in vitamin E, selenium and biotin. Diets without these nutrients pose a risk to healthy skin. These nutrients help improve oxidative stress, metabolic control and insulin sensitivity- all of which play an important role in the health of your skin. Make sure to eat a variety of tree nuts- the more variety the better!

Supplement Recommendation:

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is huge for sun damaged skin. When applied topically after a sun burn, it has been known to nourish, repair and heal the skin. It neutralizes free radicals, while improving skin durability and immune function. Vitamin E has the ability to slow the aging process of skin cells, while also reducing inflammation. Consider this vitamin “a must have” in your healthy skin arsenal.

Food Recommendation:

Eat wild caught fatty fish

Wild caught fish such as wild salmon, sardines, anchovies, herring and mackerel are excellent sources of Omega 3’s, protein and CoQ10 — all of which are essential for skin health. Omega 3’s are an anti-inflammatory fat that help regulate oil production, boost skin hydration and prevent acne. Omega 3’s have also been known to delay the skins aging process- aka fight wrinkles, improve dry, itchy and red skin while also helping with skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.

Supplement recommendation:

Take an Omega 3 supplement

If you are not eating wild caught fish on a daily basis, then it is HIGHLY recommended to take a daily Omega 3 supplement. In addition to all the benefits listed above Omega 3’s are critical for decreasing inflammation, maintaining brain/mental health, improving mood, supporting hormones, improving sleep, protecting against cancer and supporting healthy joints and bones.


As you can tell there are MANY different foods and supplements that play a integral role in the skin’s immunity. Be sure to get these foods into your diet daily and if you can’t- then trying adding in the supplements discussed. Again, be sure to check with your doctor prior to taking any new supplements.

If you are interested in purchasing any of the skin immune supplements listed above- be sure to check out my exclusive Skin Care bundle here. Create your account and then you can view the protocol/recommendations for Skin Health!

As always, I hope this was helpful and stay tuned for our second discussion where we will dive into environmental toxins and how they impact the skin’s immunity.

As always, reach out with any questions or concerns!

xoxo-Danielle

References: https://fullscript.com/blog/healthy-skin-natural-supplements-and-vitamins

https://www.amymyersmd.com/2020/02/the-best-foods-for-healthy-skin/

http://www.allgreatnutrition.com/blog/the-best-foods-for-healthy-skin

https://dermnetnz.org/topics/skin-immune-system/

https://www.avogel.co.uk/health/skin/what-does-your-immune-system-do-for-your-skin/

https://ecrcommunity.plos.org/2015/06/05/just-skin-deep-your-immune-system-at-the-surface/

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/immune-system

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Happy Earth Day!!!!

I know Earth Day looks a little different this year, but I also feel like it’s the 1st Earth Day- where the EARTH is actually celebrating. 🌎🎉

So many incredible transformations have happened to the Earth since the world wide pandemic. Animals are returning to places they haven’t been seen in years, the ozone is repairing itself and pollution is at an all time low. #hellyes

For the Earth it truly has been a blessing and I’m praying that once this is all over we DO NOT go back to the way things were.

All of that being said- let’s celebrate online today with some of my Earth Day favorites!

EARTH DAY PICKS!

Reusable silicone lids

These lids are wonderful and can fit just about anything. I’m a huge eater of watermelon and have always hated covering mine with plastic wrap. Then I found these guys and my life is forever changed!

They are microwave and dishwasher-friendly, easy to clean, unbreakable airtight seal and they will keep your food fresher much longer. Check them out here!

Stasher Bags

These bags are my absolute favorite. Made from high quality and durable silicone- these are perfect for snacks, sandwiches, fresh fruit, nuts and seeds- honestly anything and everything!

They can be a bit pricey, but they are on sale this week with 25% off!!!

Zoya Nail Polish

Zoya is a safe non toxic nail polish brand. They have a variety of stunning colors and formulas. Zoya removes toxic ingredients such as toluene, camphor, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin and DBP (dibutyl phthalate) from all of its formulations.

This is the ONLY brand of nail polish I use and highly recommend.

Bee’s wraps

These sustainable sandwich and food wraps are every day staples for us. They are washable, reusable and obviously fun to look at :) They are made by infusing organic cotton with beeswax, organic jojoba oil, and tree resin. These are an excellent alternative for plastic wrap and sandwich baggies.

Right now they are on sale for 20% off!!

Berkey Water Filter System

This water filter has changed my life!!! “The Travel Berkey Water Filter removes viruses, pathogenic bacteria, cysts and parasites and extracts harmful chemicals such as herbicides, pesticides, VOCs, organic solvents, radon 222 and trihalomethanes. It also reduces rust, silt, sediment, foul taste and odors and unhealthy minerals such as lead and mercury.

This system is so powerful it can remove red food coloring from water without removing the beneficial minerals your body needs. Virtually no other system can duplicate this performance.

Bottled water is no comparison as several popular companies have been tested and proven to have levels of disinfection byproducts, industrial chemicals, prescription drugs and even bacteria.”

If you don’t have a water filtration system- I highly recommend purchasing this one! Best decision I ever made.

Reusable paper towels

I love these guys so much. Not only are they stunning- but they get the job done. You can use them as paper towels, napkins or even for your face. Extremely versatile while saving the environment! Check them out here!

Reusable produce bags

Plastic bags in grocery stores are one of the biggest offenders of wasteful plastic use.

Plastic bags take 10-20 years to break down which is ridiculous. We CAN and need to do better!

These simple reusable bags are dirt cheap, easy to use, washable and can fit any produce item you find. I’ve been using these for years now and have never looked back. Easiest switch ever! Check them out here.

Wool Dryer Balls

These wool dryer balls are fantastic!! They are the best natural and safe alternative to dryer sheets.

Dryer sheets are typically filled with toxic chemicals that can disrupt hormones, cause cancer, reproductive issues and much more.

But, you don’t have to worry about chemicals with these guys. You can customize your scent by dropping some of your favorite essential oils onto them.

These are dirt cheap- be sure to gift them to yourself and a family member this Earth Day!

Stainless steel straws

If you’re like me then you’re obsessed with straws. I don’t know why, but I’ve loved straws my whole life.

So, I’ve always been on the lookout for an easy reusable straw. Thankfully, these fit the bill!

I love these so much because they come with a little cap as well as the straw cleaners.

Guys- all of these items will bring you one step closer to helping the environment.

Remember small acts- add up to big results.

I hope that on this Earth Day each of you take a few minutes to really think about the Earth- what does it mean to you and how you can take more steps to improve the world we live on. This is a community and global effort- let’s not be in the mindset that someone else will do it. Do your small part and spread that awareness to others. Get outside today and enjoy all that this beautiful Earth has to offer.

Stay well friends- xoxo

Essential Oils for Immune Support

While there are many beneficial essential oils out there- only a few make the list for my “top” immune boosting oils.

Continuing reading to find out and as always be sure to consult your doctor prior to using essential oils.

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What are essential oils and why should you be using them?

“Essential oils are the essence of a plant, a gift from the earth, distilled and prepared for you to bring the power of nature into your home.

Inside many plants—hidden in roots, seeds, flowers, bark—are concentrated, highly potent chemical compounds. These natural compounds are essential oils.

Essential oils give a plant its scent, protect it from hazardous environmental conditions, and even assist it with pollination, among other important functions and benefits.”

These powerful compounds have been used for centuries for scent, to heal, disinfect and support the body in ways that food and supplements can’t.

When you hear the word “essential oil” what comes to mind?

Most people think of essential oils as being in their beauty or skin care products. But, essential oils have many more incredible uses such as: balancing moods, decreasing stress, improving pain and inflammation, regulating hormones, natural sleep aid etc. The list goes on and on, but my favorite one of all is the way essential oils are used for immune support.

Essential oils play a large role in supporting our body’s overall health and now there is more and more research confirming that these oils have huge immune boosting effects as well.

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Below are my top choices for immune boosting/immune supportive essential oils. And as with all things, I suggest choosing quality over quantity every time. Some people will say otherwise, but going off of my experience with other brands and after researching heavily- doTERRA does have THE BEST essential oils out there.

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My top Essential Oils for Immune Support

#1 On Guard

On Guard essential oil should be at the top of everyone’s list!!

It is made with Wild Orange Peel, Clove Bud, Cinnamon Leaf, Cinnamon Bark, Eucalyptus Leaf, and Rosemary Leaf/Flower essential oils.

It can be taken internally in a capsule, used to wipe down counters, diffused in the air and used as a hand and clothing wash.

This oil really does it all:

~Protects against seasonal and environmental allergies

~Strengthens the immune system

~Supports respiratory function

~Has the ability to cleanse and purify the air

~Kill off harmful bacteria and viruses….etc

This is the one and done oil- if you can only buy one off of this list. I highly recommend this one!

#2 Oregano

Most commonly known as an Italian herb- oregano boasts some of the best immune benefits.

~Oregano is an anti viral, anti-bacterial and anti- fungal

~Oregano also contains strong anti-oxidant capabilities

~Studies have confirmed oregano to inhibit norovirus, staph, e. coli and strep

~Oregano can be used topically to clean counters, added as a seasoning to meals and taken internally in a veggie capsule

#3 Frankincense

This oil is known as the “King of all oils”

Frankincense has been used since biblical times and has now gotten the recognition it deserves with all the new found research

Frankincense has been used as a highly effective anti-inflammatory, anti bacterial and anti viral

Frankincense also protects against free radicals aka damage from environmental and industrial toxins as well as dietary toxins

Frankincense can be used topically as well as diffused and taken internally in a veggie capsule

#4 Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a very well-known scent as it has been widely used in over- the- counter cold and flu medicines for a long time to help break up and loosen mucus

Eucalyptus contains strong anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties

It is rich in anti-oxidants and is very useful in clearing up congestion and opening air ways

Eucalyptus can be diffused into the air, added to a spray bottle to clean surfaces as well as adding a drop to your moisturizer to rub on the chest or under the nose to relieve congestion.

Eucalyptus is one EO that should not be ingested!

# 5 Thyme

Thyme is another popular herb most people use for cooking- however Thyme is great for coughs

Thyme has a special terpene that has proven to reduce coughs associated with upper respiratory infections

Thyme contains anti bacterial and anti microbial benefits

Thyme can be added to meals, taken internally in a veggie capsule and placed on the skin with a carrier oil to repel insects

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So why should you add Essential Oils to your health cabinet?

Your immune system thrives on fresh, nutritious foods like organic fruits and vegetables, grass fed meats and free range eggs, wild caught fish, and healthy fats. These foods help your immune system operate at optimum capacity to protect you from infections and other serious illnesses.

However, when your body is lacking in these elements due to an inadequate diet, stress and/or pollution, your body reacts by producing toxic molecules known as “free radicals”, upsetting your immune system.

Scientific studies demonstrate that diffusion of essential oils, topical use and safe internal use can purify and cleanse the air while also providing significant internal protection. Taking essential oils is an excellent way to utilize their immune-boosting properties will supporting your immune system all year long.

To summarize…..

Pay attention to ingredients and sourcing with essential oils, as most essential oil companies are not created equal. Click here to see why I chose doTERRA.

Again, chose quality over quantity. Pure essential oil extraction takes time and skill. And if you are choosing a company that rushes the process or doesn’t extract properly then you are most likely not getting a pure essential oil.

Do your research and ask questions. Find a company that you trust and can feel good about using their essential oils in your daily routine.

As always I hope this was helpful- reach out with any questions!

Hello friends!

Welcome to Part 2- of my favorite immune boosting foods and supplements! Be sure to check out Part 1 if you haven’t already- lots of good info over there! And although these foods and supplements are powerful and can certainly help lessen the duration or severity of a cold or the flu- it really takes being consistent throughout the year with your nutrition and overall wellness. And please always check with a doctor and or pharmacist prior to taking any of the items listed below. I am not a doctor or pharmacist, I am simply speaking from experience and sharing what has worked for me and my family :)

Let’s dive in and get started with Part 2!!

• A good quality Probiotic

  • First let’s start off with answering, “What is a probiotic?” In simple terms probiotics are live gut bacteria that support your body’s ability to absorb nutrients and fight infection. Your body contains roughly around 2-3lbs of gut bacteria- which is why it’s super important to keep them healthy and active!

  • With all of the different probiotic options out there it can be quite difficult to decide which ones to purchase. Which is why I’ve done the hardest work for you.

  • As a Nutritional Therapist I’ve had the opportunity to try many brands of probiotics and time and time again- I always come back to this guy. —->

  • MegaSporeBioticTM is the probiotic I’ve used and recommended for the last 2 years and it is by far the best quality probiotic I’ve ever used. MegaSporeBioticTM is the first 100% spore-based, broad-spectrum

    probiotic clinically shown to improve leaky gut in just 30 days.

    Spore-based probiotics are much more effective than conventional

    probiotics on the market because they are designed to survive through

    the harsh gastric system, colonize, and increase microbial diversity in the

    gut. This unique all-spore formula effectively

    reconditions the gut by increasing microbial diversity and encouraging

    the growth of key health-promoting, commensal gut bacteria.

    Why Use Megasporebiotic?

    • Probiotics are huge for maintaining a healthy gut- improve leaky gut, IBS/IBD etc.

    • Help with antibiotic resistance

    • Probiotics have been known to help improve mood

    • Probiotics can help improve allergies and skin conditions such as eczema

    • Help improve and strengthen immune system

    • Can assist with weight loss

• Again- I use MegaSporeBiotic as my primary probiotic- but I also incorporate fermented foods every month to keep my gut bacteria happy and healthy! Some of my favorite sources are kimchi, sauerkraut and fermented veggies.

• Zinc

  • Zinc is a very powerful mineral that is essential for the body. Over 300 enzymes rely on zinc to properly function. Zinc is considered a trace mineral meaning that it is only needed in small quantities to keep levels sufficient. It is mostly found in the strongest muscles of the body and is found in especially high concentrations in the white and red blood cells, retina, skin, liver, kidneys, bones, and pancreas. The semen and the prostate gland in men also contain significant amounts of zinc. Zinc does get used up quickly as it used in various metabolic processes and needs to be replenished often.

Why use Zinc ?

• Can boost the immune system- lessen duration of colds

• It can help with acne

• Zinc can help improve your vision

• Can reduce inflammation

• Helps maintain proper levels of stomach acid

• Improves cognitive function

• Improves sense of smell and taste

  As you can see zinc is super important for maintaining a healthy body. Zinc is best taken at the very beginning of a cold- as zinc’s effectiveness lessens over time. Zinc can be taken as a tablet or lozenge. As always please make sure you contact your doctor first prior to taking it.

  • These are the lozenges I love and use.

OnGuard Essential Oil

• Essential Oils have been used for centuries as anti-bacterials, anti-virals, anti-microbials, immune support, mood enhancing, digestive health and so much more. These power packed “essences” are what give the plant their scent, protects them from hazardous environmental conditions, and even assist it with pollination.

  
  The purity of an essential oil is its most important characteristic. Which is why it’s crucial to use a brand that set high standards for their oils. I solely use doTERRA essential oils because they have developed their own testing process called CPTG- Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade. This process ensures that no added fillers, synthetic ingredients or harmful contaminants are ever used in their essential oils. That being said, their OnGuard blend is the “holy grail” for staying healthy in the fall and winter months.

Benefits of OnGuard:

• Supports healthy respiratory function

• Supports natural antioxidant production

• Can help prevent colds and illness, by inhibiting viruses

• Strengthens the immune system

  You can purchase OnGuard here- I also recommend using the hand wash, toothpaste, mouth wash and laundry detergent. That way you target those germs from all angles :) I personally love diffusing it as well as adding it into tea and using it topically. If you would like to know specific instructions for you- send me an email and we can discuss!

Remove Inflammatory Foods

• Inflammation is the root cause of all disease. Inflammation is a normal part of the body’s inherent immune response and is necessary for normal function. For example if you were to get a cut, have a virus or break a bone- the body would natural begin to inflame the area to begin repairing the damage tissue or bone. This is considered acute inflammation- which is not dangerous and typically only last a few days. Without this acute inflammation our body would not heal, allowing wounds to fester and potentially leading to death.

  On the other hand chronic inflammation is very dangerous and can last weeks, months or even years. This type of inflammation affects muscles, organs, tissue, cells and all systems of the body (brain, digestive, immune etc.)

• A very common source of inflammation are inflammatory foods. Inflammatory foods are foods that do exactly that- they trigger an immune response once entered into the body.

The most common inflammatory foods are:

Refined carbs and white flour products

Gluten

Corn

GMO Soy

Dairy

Sugar

High levels of Omega 6 oils and foods

Trans fats and hydrogenated oils

Removing anti-inflammatory foods can help with:

• Digestive issues- such as bloating, gas, constipation, acid reflux etc

• Improve brain cognition and brain fog

• Optimize sleep

• Improve skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, or red/blotchy skin

• Help with allergies and allergy symptoms

• Increase energy levels

• Lower blood sugar levels

• Decreased arthritis pain

• And so much more…….

  When you are able to fully remove and lower you inflammation levels, you will truly feel like a new person. To experience the full effect - you can also consider eating an anti-inflammatory diet for 1-3 months. This is not necessary for everyone, but can absolutely help many individuals.

  Welp- that’s all friends! I hope these lists were helpful in getting you the best tools to keep you healthy all winter long! Reach out if you have any questions!