By Mackenzie Weis Jones, DNP, FNP-BC
Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner

This blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice.

When it comes to heart health, we often focus on cholesterol, blood pressure, and exercise. While those matter, one of the most import...

By Mackenzie Weis Jones, DNP, FNP-BC
Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner

February is often the month we associate with hearts, but as a functional medicine practitioner, I believe heart health deserves attention all year long. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death for both men...

As we enter January, the initial rush of New Year's energy often quickly gives way to lingering stress and winter fatigue. To truly support your commitment to reflection and mindful goal-setting, we must prioritize neurological and adrenal balance. This month, we spotlight a foundational herb dedica...

As the New Year begins, our minds are naturally focused on reflection and mindful planning. We set intentions, create new habits, and envision success for the months ahead. But for these plans to truly take root and last beyond January, we need one non-negotiable ingredient: sustained, foundational ...

Why Holiday Stress Makes Us Crave Sugar and Derails Our Health

Ever feel like you’re doing great all year, but the moment the holidays hit, your willpower vanishes and you crave sugar constantly? You are not alone, and it’s not a lack of discipline—it’s biology.

The primary culprit is cortisol, yo...

Supplement Spotlight: Phosphatidylserine (PS)

This month, we are focusing on a remarkable nutrient that helps balance your body’s response to stress: Phosphatidylserine, commonly called PS.

What is PS?

Phosphatidylserine is not a vitamin or a mineral; it is a naturally occurring fatty compound, o...

How Your Digestion Affects Your Mood and Focus

It’s easy to think of your digestive system as just a breakdown factory for food. But in functional medicine, we know it's so much more. Your gut is intimately connected to your brain, influencing everything from how you feel emotionally to how sharp y...

Supplement Spotlight: It's Probiotics' Time to Shine! 

 Wait, what?!

I can hardly believe I'm typing this, but in all our time doing "Supplement of the Month," we have never dedicated a spotlight to one of the most foundational, game-changing supplements in functional medicine: Probiotics!

Seriou...

Supplement of the Month: Chromium, The Blood Sugar Balancer

When we talk about managing energy levels and cravings, we often focus on big-picture things like diet and exercise. But sometimes, a tiny, overlooked mineral can be a game-changer for your metabolic health. This month, I want to shine ...

Supplement of the Month: Reishi, The Mushroom of Calm

 In our journey to understand and manage stress, we often look for tools that can help our bodies find balance in a demanding world. While we've talked about the HPA axis—our body's "fire alarm" system—this month, I want to highlight one of my f...

A Simple Look at the HPA Axis and How to Build Resilience

 We all talk about stress, but what is actually happening inside our bodies when we feel overwhelmed? The answer lies in a brilliant, ancient communication network designed to keep us safe: the HPA Axis. Understanding this system is the firs...