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Intentional Living Newsletter

This newsletter will offer periodic health updates, suggestions and research alongside my own challenges, joys and struggles. I will offer advice regarding fun practical ideas for lifestyle changes, proper nutrition, supplementation and mindful living as we seek to live our precious lives as healthfully as possible.

Featured Post

Still Struggling with Allergies?

Hi Friends, Spring is here! And while it brings longer days and fresh energy, it also means allergy season for millions. If you’re dealing with sneezing, congestion, or itchy eyes, histamine is likely at the root. While traditional antihistamines can help manage symptoms, they don’t always address why your body is reacting in the first place. A more proactive approach focuses on calming the body’s response before symptoms take over. Nutrients like Quercetin help stabilize mast cells (reducing...

In this week’s episode of the Intentional Living with Emlah Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Miller to uncover how your mouth is directly connected to your overall health. We dive into: How the oral microbiome impacts inflammation and chronic disease Why dental care should start as early as age one The surprising connection between oral health, sleep, stress, and conditions like TMJ, heart disease, and even Alzheimer’s This conversation will completely shift how you think about brushing,...

We spend time decluttering our homes this season, but what about our health? Spring is the perfect time to let go of what’s no longer serving you, whether that’s expired supplements, unnecessary routines, or habits that feel overwhelming. Health doesn’t have to be complicated. This is your reminder to simplify and reset in a way that feels sustainable. Clear the Clutter: Brain Fog Isn’t Normal If you’ve been feeling off, unfocused, or like you’re moving through your day in a fog, it’s not...

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and this year, the conversation feels different and more urgent. While colorectal cancer has traditionally been thought of as a disease affecting older adults, we are seeing a steady rise in cases among younger individuals. Stories like these are no longer rare headlines, rather they are becoming part of a broader and concerning trend. Let’s start with the big picture. The majority of colorectal cancer cases and deaths still occur in adults...

When most people hear “hormone replacement therapy,” they immediately think of estrogen. Occasionally progesterone enters the conversation. But there is another hormone that plays a meaningful role in women’s health, one that is often overlooked. Testosterone. Yes, women produce testosterone too. And for many women in midlife, declining testosterone levels can contribute to symptoms that are commonly dismissed as “just aging.” Things like: Low libido Reduced motivation or drive Decreased...

Every morning, before emails, before my children are awake, before the day gets loud, I “make” my morning drink. It’s simple. It’s consistent. It’s non-negotiable. And it’s one of the most supportive habits I’ve built for my body. It sets the tone for my entire day. So what’s in my water? Three simple, evidence-based supplements I trust and use daily. Creatine, Collagen, and Fiber. These are foundational. And foundations are what actually move the needle. Why These 3 Work Better Together I’m...

March marks Sleep Awareness Month, a time dedicated to highlighting the importance of sleep for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Quality sleep isn’t a luxury; it’s a foundation for healthier living, better productivity, and happier days. Sleep by the Numbers About one-third of U.S. adults don’t get enough sleep (less than 7 hours per night). Lack of sleep is linked to increased health risks like obesity, diabetes, heart disease, anxiety, and depression. More than 50-70 million...

Acne isn’t just a teenage problem and it’s rarely just about your skin. For many teens and adults, breakouts are influenced by hormones, inflammation, gut health, stress, and nutrient status. That’s why quick fixes often fall short, and why a more supportive, inside-out approach matters. Teen vs. Adult Acne: What’s Different? While acne shows up at different life stages, the drivers can vary: Teen acne is often fueled by puberty-related hormone surges that increase oil production and clog...

When we talk about gut health, immunity, or hormones, there’s one critical ecosystem that still doesn’t get nearly enough attention: vaginal flora. The vaginal microbiome is made up of beneficial bacteria, primarily Lactobacillus species, that help maintain a healthy, protective environment. These bacteria keep vaginal pH slightly acidic, which is essential for comfort, odor control, and protection against unwanted bacteria and yeast. When this balance is supported, things feel normal. When...

Mental Health in the Winter: Supporting Your Brain When the Days Are Short

Winter has a way of slowing everything down. The days are shorter, the air is colder, routines shift, and it’s easy to feel more tired, unmotivated, or emotionally flat. For many people, winter isn’t just a season, it’s a real stressor on mental health. While mood changes during colder months are common, they’re also a signal that the brain may need a little extra support. Why Winter Hits Mental Health Harder Reduced sunlight affects more than our schedule, it impacts brain chemistry. Less...