In the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle, incorporating nutritious and delicious recipes into our daily routine can make all the difference. It’s the love month and we are so excited to make some delicious healthy Valentine’s treats to celebrate with our loved ones. We’ve stumbled upon a delightful recipe that not only caters to your taste buds but also nourishes your body with essential nutrients, is gluten-free and vegetarian! Say hello to the Raspberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Hearts – a heartwarming treat that’s as good for your body as it is for your soul.
These Raspberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Hearts are not only visually appealing but also packed with the goodness of whole ingredients. This recipe, from Haute & Healthy Living, is the perfect delicious and healthy recipe for Valentine’s Day! Let’s dive in!
The Raspberry Banana Baked Oatmeal Hearts from Haute & Healthy Living are a perfect addition to your repertoire of nutritious recipes. With a combination of wholesome ingredients, a dash of creativity, and a sprinkle of love, this recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful and nutritious experience that aligns with your fitness goals. After all, a fit lifestyle should be as enjoyable as it is beneficial, and these baked oatmeal hearts strike the perfect balance. Enjoy the journey of creating and savoring these delightful treats!
Sexual health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, and it encompasses not only the physical but also the emotional and psychological components of one’s intimate life. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of addressing sexual health issues in both men and women. While various treatments exist for male sexual dysfunction, women have often been underserved in this regard. However, the emergence of Addyi, often referred to as the “little pink pill,” has provided new hope for women struggling with sexual health concerns.
Female sexual health is a complex and multifaceted topic that involves desire, arousal, satisfaction, and overall sexual well-being. Just like men, women can experience challenges in any of these areas, and these issues can significantly impact their quality of life and relationships.
One of the most common sexual health disorders in women is Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD). HSDD is a physical, psychological, and emotional condition characterized by a persistent lack of sexual desire that causes distress or interpersonal difficulties.
“Hypoactive Sexual desire in women is a bio-psycho-social medical diagnosis. When seeking treatment, it is important to find a physician who will take a wholistic approach to your care and is comfortable addressing the hormonal and neurochemical interactions that drive libido”, says Dr. Ben Barenberg of Optimal Health Associates.
Addyi (flibanserin) is a medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat HSDD in premenopausal women. It is a non-hormonal medication designed to address the complex nature of female sexual health. Unlike other treatments, which primarily target physical aspects, Addyi focuses on the brain’s neurotransmitters to enhance sexual desire.
Addyi acts on the brain’s serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine systems, helping to restore the balance of these neurotransmitters. By doing so, it increases sexual desire while decreasing distress related to low libido. This unique mechanism of action sets Addyi apart from other treatments, making it a promising option for women who have struggled to find effective solutions.
It’s important to note that Addyi is not a “magic pill” that guarantees instant results. Like many medications, it may take time to achieve the desired effects. Additionally, some women may experience side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, or nausea, and not all women will respond the same way to the medication. Therefore, consulting with a healthcare provider who specializes in sexual health is crucial to determine if Addyi is the right choice and to monitor its effectiveness.
Doctor Barenberg says, “Addyi can take up to 8 weeks to in some women to generate a noticeable effect. Improvement in sexual desire requires time to allow your brain to adjust to the new neurotransmitter balance.”
While Addyi represents a significant advancement in the treatment of HSDD; a holistic approach to sexual well-being should involve not only medication but also counseling, lifestyle adjustments, and communication within the relationship.
Moreover, it’s vital to foster open and honest discussions about sexual health and desires between partners and with healthcare providers. This can help identify any underlying issues, address concerns, and find the most suitable solutions to improve one’s sexual health and overall quality of life.
The “little pink pill” Addyi has emerged as a promising option for women struggling with HSDD, offering a unique non-hormonal approach to enhance sexual desire and improve overall well-being. However, it should be viewed as part of a broader strategy that considers the multifaceted nature of female sexual health. By addressing sexual health concerns with understanding, empathy, and a comprehensive approach, women can unlock the secrets to a fulfilling and satisfying intimate life.
Improved Sexual Desire: Addyi has been shown in clinical trials to significantly increase sexual desire in women with HSDD, helping them regain a fulfilling and satisfying sex life.
Enhanced Emotional Well-being: Sexual health is closely tied to emotional well-being, and addressing HSDD can lead to reduced distress and improved overall mental health.
Relationship Satisfaction: A healthy and satisfying sexual relationship is vital for many couples. Addyi can contribute to increased intimacy and satisfaction, strengthening the bonds between partners.
Non-Hormonal Approach: Addyi does not rely on hormonal changes, making it a suitable option for women who cannot or prefer not to use hormonal treatments.
FDA-Approved: Addyi’s approval by the FDA underscores its safety and efficacy for treating HSDD, providing women with a reliable and regulated option.
PhilRX has conveniently partnered with Addyi to provide the lowest prescription prices that are shipped directly to your door. Below is a list of local providers that write Addyi for their patients.
1. Ben Barenberg, MD, FPMRS
2. Darren Goff, MD
3. Melissa Troy, DNP, APRN-CNP
Bishop Creek Medical (Mental Health) in Norman
4. Michelle Webster, DO
A New Beginning Healthcare and Spa in OKC
5. Tiffany Richey, APRN-CNP
6. April Wooden, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
7. Kaci Thomas, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Integris Canadian Valley Women’s Health in Yukon
8. Misty Wayman, MD
Contributed by NAMI Oklahoma
As the new year approaches, it’s essential to recognize that it can be a bittersweet time for many. For some, the holidays are a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness, but for others, they can be a poignant reminder of loss and absence. Navigating grief during this post-holiday period requires a delicate balance of self-reflection, self-care, and understanding.
Keep reading to to explore the often-overlooked aspect of post-holiday grief and learn insights on how to find balance after a busy holiday season. Grief doesn’t adhere to a calendar, and acknowledging its presence is the first step toward healing.
Accept your needs. Be kind to yourself! Put your own mental and physical well-being first. Recognize what your triggers are to help you prepare for stressful situations. Is shopping for holiday gifts too stressful for you? What is making you feel physically and mentally agitated? Once you know this, you can take steps to avoid or cope with stress.
Write a gratitude list and offer thanks. As we enter the new year, it’s a good time to reflect on what you are grateful for, and then thank those who have supported you. Gratitude has been shown to improve mental health.
Manage your time and don’t try to do too much. Prioritizing your time and activities can help you use your time well. Making a day-to-day schedule helps ensure you don’t feel overwhelmed by everyday tasks and deadlines. It’s okay to say no to plans that don’t fit into your schedule or make you feel good.
Be realistic. The happy lives of the people shown in those holiday commercials are fictional. We all have struggles one time or another and it’s not realistic to expect otherwise. Sometimes, it’s simply not possible to find the perfect gift or have a peaceful time with family.
Set boundaries. Family dynamics can be complex. Acknowledge them and accept that you can only control your role. If you need to, find ways to limit your exposure.
Practice relaxation. Deep breathing, meditation and progressive muscle relaxation are good ways to calm yourself. Taking a break to refocus can have benefits beyond the immediate moment.
Exercise daily. Schedule time to walk outside, bike or join a dance class. Whatever you do, make sure it’s fun. Daily exercise naturally produces stress-relieving hormones in your body and improves your overall physical health. More on the benefits of movement.
Set aside time for yourself and prioritize self-care. Schedule time for activities that make you feel good. It might be reading a book, going to the movies, getting a massage, listening to music you love, or taking your dog for a walk. It’s okay to prioritize alone time you need to recharge. More on self-care.
Eat well. With dinners, parties, and cookie trays at every turn, our eating habits are challenged during the holiday season. Try to maintain a healthy diet through it all. Eating unprocessed foods, like whole grains, vegetables, and fresh fruit is the foundation for a healthy body and mind. Eating well can also help stabilize your mood.
Get enough sleep. Symptoms of some mental health conditions, like mania in bipolar disorder, can be triggered by getting too little sleep.
Avoid alcohol and drugs. They don’t actually reduce stress: in fact, they often worsen it. If you’re struggling with substance abuse, educate yourself and get help.
Spend time in nature. Studies show that time in nature reduces stress. Need to break away from family during a holiday gathering? Take a walk in a local park.
Volunteer. The act of volunteering can provide a great source of comfort. By helping people who are not as fortunate, you can also feel less lonely or isolated and more connected to your community.
Find support. Whether it’s with friends, family, a counselor, or a support group, talking can help. Consider attending a free support group provided by your local NAMI Oklahoma affiliate. If you or someone you love is experiencing a crisis, you can call the National Suicide and Crisis Line at 988; use the Crisis Text Line by texting “HelpLine” to 62640where you can connect with a HelpLine Specialist 24/7 when you need support, information and resources; or call the NAMI Helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) M–F, 9 a.m.– 9p.m. CT for free mental health info, referrals and support.
Keep up or seek therapy. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it may be time to share with your mental health professional. They can help you pinpoint specific events that trigger you and help you create an action plan to change them. If you’re already seeing a therapist, keep it up.
After a busy season of holiday festivities and parties, it’s normal to want to get back on track and incorporate more healthy recipes into your diet. Amid the holiday and New Year’s rush, finding time for homemade dishes can be a challenge. We’ve put together a warm winter dinner recipe that’ll keep you fueled for all of the winter get-togethers and at-home dinners ahead. Read on!
Ingredients (Steak):
• ½ tbsp sea salt
• ½ tbsp black pepper
• 16 oz NY Strip Porterhouse, or Rib Eye
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter or butter alternative
• 1 sprig fresh rosemarys
Ingredients (Potatoes):
• 2 idaho potatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp crushed fresh rosemary
1. Preheat oven to 450°F and bring the steak to room temperature.
2. Heat the cast iron in the oven for 15 minutes.
3. Pat the steak dry. Mix together in a small bowl the spice rub of sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Massage this generously into the meat. Drizzle olive oil onto the meat and rub into the meat. Let this rest again while the cast iron heats up.
4. In the meantime, cut the potatoes into ½-inch chunks. Next, toss them together with olive oil, sea salt, minced garlic, and crushed rosemary. Afterward, spread the seasoned potatoes onto a baking sheet and place it in the oven to cook for 30 minutes or until they turn golden brown, remembering to flip them halfway through. Meanwhile, you can keep the potatoes in the oven while the steak is cooking.
5. When the cast iron is ready, take it out and turn the stove to high heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the pan and add a sprig of rosemary. The pan should be screaming hot.
6. Add the steak to the pan and let sear 2 minutes on both sides, for about an inch thick NY Strip. Take out the sprig of rosemary.
7. Flip the steak back to the first side and transfer this to the oven to cook at 450°F. Cook this for 2.5-4 minutes per side depending on how you like it and how thick your steak is. 2.5 minutes would be medium rare for an inch thick steak.
8. Once the steak is done, pull it out of the oven and let it rest. After the steak has rested, cover it on a cutting board for at least 10 minutes for the juices to settle.
Check out Fit City Magazine for more healthy fall recipes!
This Merry Mocktail is the perfect beverage for any holiday gathering this winter. It’s the perfect blend of flavors that will quickly become a holiday staple all season long!
Enjoy!
In today’s fast-paced world, where convenience often trumps connection, it’s crucial to remember the value of community and personal relationships. This holds especially true when it comes to your healthcare. Local pharmacies, as the cornerstone of many communities, offer a wealth of benefits that larger corporations simply can’t replicate.
Local pharmacists know you by name, not just as a customer number. They take the time to understand your unique health needs, providing tailored advice, medication management, and potential cost-saving alternatives. This personalized approach can greatly enhance your overall well-being.
Local pharmacies are often more accessible, with shorter wait times and more flexible hours. Plus, you’re likely to find a friendly face behind the counter, ready to assist you with any questions or concerns. Their proximity to your community means you can easily pop in for a quick consultation or prescription refill.
Local pharmacies are deeply embedded in the fabric of your neighborhood. They actively participate in community events, health fairs, and initiatives that promote wellness and engagement. Supporting your local pharmacy means supporting the vitality of your community.
Smaller, local pharmacies often boast shorter lines and faster service compared to their corporate counterparts. You’ll spend less time waiting and more time on what matters most to you.
Contrary to popular belief, local pharmacies can offer competitive pricing on medications, and in many cases, they can beat the prices of larger pharmacy chains. They may also be more willing to explore cost-saving options, such as generic medications or discount programs.
Local pharmacies often have the capability to compound medications, tailoring dosages and forms to your specific needs. This can be a game-changer for individuals with unique requirements, allergies, or sensitivities.
Local pharmacists can help synchronize your medication refills, ensuring that you pick up all your prescriptions at once. This minimizes trips to the pharmacy, streamlines your routine, and improves medication adherence.
By choosing a local pharmacy, you’re not just taking care of your health; you’re also supporting a local business. Your patronage helps maintain jobs in your community, bolstering the local economy.
A trusted pharmacist-patient relationship is invaluable. Over time, your local pharmacist becomes a healthcare confidant, someone you can turn to for advice and guidance on various health matters.
Many local pharmacies offer more than just prescription services. They may provide immunizations, health screenings, and wellness consultations, making them a one-stop-shop for your healthcare needs.
While larger corporate pharmacies certainly have their place in the healthcare landscape, local pharmacies offer a unique set of advantages that can greatly benefit you and your community. The personalized care, accessibility, and community engagement foster an environment where you’re not just another customer; you’re a valued member of a healthcare family. By choosing to support your local pharmacy, you’re making an investment in your health and the well-being of your neighborhood.
The Apothecary Room
2000 E 15th St., Unit 100B, Edmond, OK 73013
405-696-4777
@theapothecaryroomrx
Chris’ Express Drug
12032 S Western Ave • Oklahoma City, OK 73170
405-735-3950
As the temperature drops and cold and flu cases begin to rise, it only means one thing– winter is here! It’s essential to prioritize our well-being in the face of these seasonal challenges because combatting the cold and flu season can be difficult. Prioritizing winter wellness and maintaining a healthy lifestyle despite the chilly weather brings new challenges, but thankfully, can be beat naturally.
As cold and flu season makes its annual appearance, we bring you ten natural cold and flu remedies to help ease any symptoms that may come your way. Discover a few of nature’s remedies that can relieve and support your immune system, ensuring you stay active, vibrant, and resilient throughout the winter months. Embrace the season with a holistic approach to wellness, and let the cold and flu take a backseat to your health. Read on!
Looking for more health and wellness tips this winter? We’ve rounded up the best winter wellness tips in the most recent issue of Fit City Magazine. Check out the best tricks, therapies, and services designed to infuse your holiday season with wellness, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Read our most recent issue, here!
As the winter season approaches, so does the need to fortify our immune systems and maintain optimal health. One innovative and effective way to achieve this is through intravenous (IV) therapy. IV therapy is gaining popularity as a powerful tool for bolstering the body’s defenses, promoting well-being, and addressing various health concerns.
IV therapy involves the direct infusion of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fluids into the bloodstream via a needle. By bypassing the digestive system, it ensures rapid and complete absorption of nutrients. This approach allows for tailored treatments to meet individual health needs and goals.
Immune Boost: In winter, cold and flu season is in full swing. IV therapy can provide a potent mix of immune-boosting nutrients like vitamin C and zinc, helping to ward off illnesses and reduce recovery time if you do get sick.
Energy Revival: The gloomy winter months can lead to fatigue and reduced energy levels. IV therapy can provide a quick energy boost with a mix of B vitamins and amino acids, helping you stay active and alert.
Hydration: Dry indoor heating and cold weather can dehydrate the body. IV therapy ensures proper hydration, which is essential for overall health and vitality.
Mood Enhancement: Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can affect many during winter. IV therapy can include mood-enhancing nutrients like vitamin D and amino acids that may help alleviate symptoms of SAD.
Hangover Relief: Holiday celebrations sometimes lead to overindulgence. IV therapy can aid in hangover recovery by rehydrating the body and providing essential nutrients.
Skin Health: Cold, dry air can wreak havoc on your skin. IV’s with collagen and antioxidants can promote healthy, radiant skin from within.
IV therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all; it offers a range of options to cater to various needs and goals:
Immune Support: A blend of vitamin C, zinc, and other immune-boosting nutrients to keep illness at bay.
Energy and Focus: B vitamins, amino acids, and hydration to enhance energy levels and mental clarity.
Detoxification: A cocktail of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to help the body eliminate toxins.
Beauty and Anti-Aging: Nutrients like collagen and biotin to promote healthy skin, hair, and nails.
Weight Management: A combination of lipotropic agents, vitamins, and amino acids to aid in weight loss.
Hangover Cure: Rehydration and nutrient replenishment to alleviate the effects of a hangover. Winter is a season when taking proactive steps to protect your health is essential. IV therapy offers an efficient and customizable approach to achieving optimal wellness.
Whether you’re looking to boost your immune system, increase energy, or address specific health concerns, there’s an IV therapy option to suit your needs. Consult with a healthcare provider to explore the benefits of IV therapy and create a personalized plan to thrive throughout the winter and beyond.
admin@elitecareiv.com
405.673.3773
@elitecareivandwellness
9800 Broadway Ext., Ste. 200
Oklahoma City, OK 73114
405.715.4496
optimalhealthokc@gmail.com
@optimalhealthassociates
1710 NW 16th St.
Oklahoma City, OK 73106
405.921.0585
info@thetreatmentroomokc.com
@thetreatmentroomokc
Cosmetic dentistry isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about unlocking your true potential and feeling your best in every situation. Your smile is the universal language of happiness and a reflection of your confidence. Thanks to advancements in cosmetic dentistry, achieving the smile of your dreams is more accessible than ever. Let’s take a closer look at five popular cosmetic dental procedures and the experts we trust with your smile.
Teeth whitening is a quick and effective way to erase years of stains and discoloration. Coffee, tea, red wine, and everyday wear and tear can dull your smile, but teeth whitening can bring back its natural brilliance. Whether you choose an in-office treatment or an at-home kit provided by your dentist, you can enjoy a noticeably whiter smile in no time.
For minor imperfections like chips or gaps, enamel bonding is a remarkable solution. Your dentist applies a tooth-colored resin to the affected area, carefully sculpting it to blend seamlessly with your natural tooth. The result is a flawless smile that looks completely natural.
Dental veneers are the go-to option for achieving a Hollywood-worthy smile. These ultra-thin porcelain shells are custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly. Veneers can transform the appearance of your teeth, concealing stains, gaps, chips, and misalignments. They provide a durable, long-lasting solution for a stunning, red-carpet-worthy smile.
Missing teeth can affect your appearance and dental health. Bridges and implants are solutions for restoring your smile. A dental bridge bridges the gap left by one or more missing teeth, while dental implants are a permanent replacement option that mimics the structure and function of natural teeth. Both options help maintain the integrity of your smile and improve your overall dental health.
Dental crowns, or “caps,” are versatile tools in cosmetic dentistry. These custom-made caps fit snugly over a damaged tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns not only preserve your dental health but also keep your smile shining bright.
Choosing the right cosmetic dental procedure depends on your unique needs and goals. A dentist that specializes in cosmetic dentistry will assess your oral health and discuss your preferences to determine the most suitable option for you. Norman Smile Center, Optimal Smiles and Dental Arts Center are your trusted partners in achieving the radiant smile you’ve always dreamed of.
Address: 420 24th Ave SW
Norman, OK 73069
Phone: (405) 329-6603
@normansmilecenter
Address: 8913 NE 23rd St.
Oklahoma City, OK 73141
Phone: (405) 769-3373
@dentalartsok
Optimal Smiles
6303 N Portland Ave., Ste 209
Oklahoma City OK 73122
(405) 942-7771
snag our healthy living guide –
Top 15 Ideas for Living Your Best Life in OKC.