Healthy Living

Peppermint: The Secret Weapon for a Happy Gut

Peppermint: The Secret Weapon for a Happy Gut
Let me let you in on a little secret: peppermint isn’t just for freshening your breath—it’s a gut health hero!

Here’s the deal: peppermint contains compounds like menthol, which work to relax the muscles in your GI tract. This helps food move more smoothly through your digestive system and can ease bloating, cramping, and that uncomfortable, too-full feeling we sometimes get after a heavy meal.

Think of peppermint as a gentle, natural digestive aid that supports your body’s process of breaking down fats and other rich foods. It doesn’t force anything; it simply gives your digestive system the boost it needs to feel better faster.

The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to work peppermint into your daily life:

  • Sip on peppermint tea after a meal for a soothing digestive reset.
  • Add a drop of peppermint essential oil to a glass of water (make sure it’s high-quality and safe for consumption!).
  • One small change can make a big difference in how you feel. Just remember, everyone’s digestive system is unique, so listen to your body and see how peppermint works for you.
✨ When it comes to ingesting essential oils, I only recommend Young Living. Their oils are marked safe for consumption, so you can use them confidently.

Ready to feel lighter and support your digestion? I’ve got just the thing for you! Grab my FREE Gut Health Guide packed with simple changes you can start making today.

Your gut (and your whole body) will thank you! 💚

Why Gut Health is Easier (and More Fun) with a Supportive Community

Why Gut Health is Easier (and More Fun) with a Supportive Community
Imagine this: You’re starting your journey to better gut health, but it feels like you're piecing it all together on your own. There’s no guide, no one to answer the questions that keep popping up, no friend who truly gets the ups and downs of trying to feel better from the inside out.

That’s exactly how I felt when I started working on my gut health. I was completely on my own. There was no roadmap, no one to ask about all the confusing symptoms, and no one who understood the endless trial and error. I was overwhelmed by all the information out there, unsure what to trust, and constantly second-guessing myself.

I honestly wish I’d had a group back then—a supportive space where I could ask questions, celebrate small wins, and get that extra nudge to stay on track. It would have saved me so much frustration (and Googling!).

But here’s what changed everything: I realized I wasn’t alone. Once I found a community of people who understood the struggles of gut health, everything shifted. These were people who got it—who wanted to talk about probiotics, inflammation, and those little daily habits that actually make a difference.
Suddenly, I didn’t feel so isolated. Having a group of like-minded individuals made all the difference. Together, we could share tips, cheer each other on, and even laugh through those awkward, TMI gut-health moments. It wasn’t just me tackling this huge goal by myself anymore; it was us, working toward healthier, happier lives.

If you’re feeling stuck or alone in your gut health journey, I want to encourage you to find your people. Whether it’s an online group, a local meet-up, or even a friend who’s interested in improving their health, having a supportive space can completely transform your experience.
Gut health isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey, but it’s one that’s so much easier (and honestly more fun) when you’re not doing it alone. Let’s build each other up, share what works, and remind ourselves that we’re all in this together. Because feeling good from the inside out? That’s something worth celebrating—together.

Feeling Like Your Hormones Are All Over the Place? Let’s Talk Solutions

Feeling Like Your Hormones Are All Over the Place? Let’s Talk Solutions
We’ve all been there—those days when your mood is swinging like a pendulum, your energy is in the negatives, and “that time of the month” feels like it’s sneaking up on you, ready to wreak havoc. It’s frustrating, exhausting, and let’s be honest, sometimes it feels like your body is running the show.

But what if I told you there’s a simple, natural way to support your hormones and take back some control?

Yep, I’m talking about essential oils.

I know, I know—essential oils can seem like a trendy buzzword. But hear me out. These plant-based powerhouses have been used for centuries for a reason—they work. When it comes to hormones, a few specific oils can do wonders for balance, stress relief, and overall well-being.

My Top 3 Go-To Oils for Hormone Support
  • Clary Sage: This oil is a game-changer for hormone health. Clary sage is known to help balance estrogen levels, which can be a lifesaver if your hormones feel like they’re running wild. Whether it’s that time of the month or just daily hormonal ups and downs, this oil can offer some much-needed support.
  • Lavender: If you’re feeling stressed (and who isn’t?), lavender is your best friend. Stress can wreak havoc on your hormones, and lavender helps calm your mind and body, reducing cortisol levels. It’s also fantastic for sleep, which is essential for overall health.
  • Frankincense: This oil is a multi-tasker! It promotes emotional balance, reduces inflammation, and supports hormone health. Think of it as the glue that holds everything together when your body feels out of sync. 
You can diffuse these oils, apply them topically (diluted with a carrier oil), or even add a few drops to a warm bath for a relaxing, hormone-supporting soak.

If you’ve been looking for a way to feel more in control of your hormones—without turning to chemicals or invasive treatments—these oils might just be the natural solution you’ve been searching for.

Ready to try them? Trust me, they’ve been a game-changer for me, and I can’t wait to hear how they work for you!

PS - I only recommend using Young Living essential oils!





Being a Busy Mom Doesn’t Mean Sacrificing Your Gut Health!

Being a Busy Mom Doesn’t Mean Sacrificing Your Gut Health!
As busy moms, we’re constantly juggling the never-ending to-do list, from kids' activities to work and everything in between. It’s easy to feel like we don’t have time to focus on our own health—especially when it comes to gut health. But here’s the truth: taking care of your gut doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. You can incorporate simple, nourishing snacks that support your digestion and keep your energy levels steady throughout the day.

Here are some of my favorite gut-healthy snacks that are easy to whip up and perfect for those on-the-go moments:

1. Organic Yogurt with Chia Seeds and Berries

Yogurt is packed with probiotics, which help promote healthy digestion by supporting the good bacteria in your gut. To take it up a notch, toss in some chia seeds for added fiber, which keeps things moving, and top it off with antioxidant-rich berries. This combo is a delicious way to keep your gut happy and your energy steady.

2. Apple Slices with Almond Butter and Cinnamon

Apples (especially with the skin on) are rich in fiber, which is key for digestion. Pairing them with almond butter gives you healthy fats, while cinnamon adds flavor and an anti-inflammatory boost. It’s a simple, tasty snack that hits the sweet spot while also being great for your gut.

3. Homemade Trail Mix with Walnuts, Pumpkin Seeds, and Dark Chocolate

Walnuts and pumpkin seeds are high in omega-3s and fiber—two nutrients that your gut loves! And let’s not forget about dark chocolate, which contains polyphenols that act as probiotics, feeding the good bacteria in your digestive system. This trail mix is easy to prep and can be stored in small bags, making it a perfect snack to grab as you head out the door.

4. Carrot Sticks with Hummus

Carrots are a great source of prebiotic fiber, which helps feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Pair them with hummus for a dose of healthy fats and protein that will keep you fuller for longer. This snack is not only good for your gut, but it’s also super easy to pack in lunchboxes or munch on while multitasking.

5. Kefir Smoothie with Spinach, Banana, and Flaxseeds

Kefir is a probiotic powerhouse, full of good bacteria that support digestion. Blend it with spinach for extra fiber, a banana for prebiotics, and flaxseeds for those gut-loving omega-3s. You can also swap out the kefir for organic coconut yogurt if you prefer a dairy-free option!
With these easy snack ideas, you can support your gut health while still managing the chaos of motherhood. You don’t have to sacrifice your well-being just because life gets busy. These snacks will keep you fueled, nourished, and feeling your best!

So the next time you're hungry, skip the processed snacks and give one of these gut-friendly options a try. Your body (and your gut) will thank you!


Why Your Plate Matters More Than Pills

Why Your Plate Matters More Than Pills
I used to think that keeping my gut happy required stocking up on an arsenal of supplements and pricey pills. Every wellness aisle and social media ad seemed to scream that a healthy gut was only one purchase away. I bought into the trend, thinking more bottles meant better health. But after years of trial and error (and some wasted money), I discovered an eye-opening truth: your plate can be your gut’s best friend.

Turns out, nature knows best. The secret to supporting your digestive system doesn’t lie in capsules or powders; it’s in real, whole foods. Think about it: your body was designed to thrive on what comes directly from the earth. When I shifted my focus from supplements to my meals, I noticed an incredible difference in how I felt day to day.

So, what does gut-friendly eating really look like? Let’s break it down:

1. Fiber-Rich Veggies: Vegetables like spinach, carrots, and sweet potatoes are powerhouses for your gut. They’re packed with fiber, which helps keep things moving smoothly in your digestive system. Plus, fiber feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut, creating a happy and balanced microbiome.

2. Probiotic-Packed Yogurt: A good-quality yogurt is more than just a tasty snack—it’s a source of live cultures that replenish your gut flora. Those little active cultures can help support digestion, boost your immune system, and keep that gut-brain connection on point.

3. Fermented Favorites: Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha might sound trendy, but they’ve been staples in various cultures for centuries. Fermentation adds beneficial bacteria to your diet, helping keep your gut’s ecosystem diverse and thriving. And hey, they’re flavorful too—an easy way to add a tangy kick to your meals.

When I started making these changes, I realized that not only did my digestion improve, but I also felt more energized. Plus, leaning into whole foods meant that my meals were naturally more satisfying and nutritious. No more endless searching for the next supplement trend—just simple, delicious, gut-friendly eats.
So next time you’re planning your meals, think about how you can nourish your gut with real, whole foods. Look at your plate and ask, “Is this fueling my body with goodness straight from nature?” Your gut (and wallet) will thank you for it.

 
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Meet Leah Negrin

 
I am a bold, beautiful, sometimes timid, usually happy, essential oil, nutrition junkie. Although at 39 I feel as if I've had several careers over a lifetime (or at least sometimes when I look back at my resume that is what shines through). I've been a paralegal, an office manager, an administrative assistant, worked in commercial lending and have finally landed on nutrition.

My journey to nutrition started many years ago when my sister was diagnosed with celiac disease and food had to change for the family. From there, along my own health journey I’ve helped people not only figure out what to eat but how to do it so that it can work for them sustainably. For almost seven years I’ve been counseling people on their nutrition and weight loss journeys. 

Finally getting some sunshine in Southern California *Photo credit  Brittany Hassett 

I am knowledgeable about what purpose food serves your body and I focus on finding sustainable options when it comes to food; this also led to my love of essential oils. I had the opportunity to attend a workshop where a registered dietitian spoke about using essential oils in her practice to help her patients. I was floored. I knew that #plantsheal but I didn't realize that others in the 'conventional' medical community thought that as well!! Learning that it was possible to incorporate these magical little bottles gave me a huge sense of hope.


Alina, myself and Caitlin (oily bffs) *Photo credit Anne Negrin

 
As I learned more about these oils I was diagnosed with increased intestinal permeability or as many of us know it, leaky gut. Leaky gut has been around for quite awhile but many of us are just learning what this is or why this is even more common these days than ever before. Many issues can be related to leaky gut including autoimmune diseases. Receiving this diagnosis just led me down a path further to learn about nutrition and how to best serve my body and take care of myself.


Enjoying a vegan ice cream cone in Budapest! *Photo credit to Michelle Owen 

Since birthing our sweet baby boy at home earlier this year I’ve been incredibly passionate about helping other women too who are pregnant and new mothers with their nutrition. Eating healthy for your pregnant body and your postpartum self is a game changer for both mother and baby.

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