Cooking with Nancy O: Family Friendly Comfort Foods with a Twist

Expert Interview: The Gut Health Epidemic: What the Doctors Aren’t Telling You with Marc McLean

"Gut health is at epidemic levels these days. It affects so many people, it is the #1 reason for hospitalizations in the US.” - Marc McLean   Episode Summary: 🔥 Gut health is at crisis levels—but the answers may not be what you think. 🔥 In this episode of Inspirations by Nancy, Marc McLean shares his powerful journey of overcoming severe gut health issues, from an unexpected IBS diagnosis to years of struggling with digestive disorders. His story is one of resilience, research, and discovery—diving into how nutrition, emotional health, and even dental fillings played a crucial role in his recovery. Join us as we discuss the real causes of gut issues, the problems with mainstream medicine, and how taking control of your diet and stress can transform your health. If you or someone you know has struggled with digestive problems, this episode is a must-listen! 🔗 Listen now and take charge of your gut health today!   About Marc McLean: Marc McLean is a gut health author, integrative nutrition health coach, and host of the For Gut Sake podcast. After being diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis in 2017 and given a bleak prognosis of lifelong medication, he used his background as a journalist to uncover the root causes of gut disorders. Through years of research into alternative health, nutrition, and lifestyle changes, he reversed his symptoms and has been medication-free for over five years. Now, he shares his insights to help others take control of their gut health naturally.   Episode Sponsor: Threaded Joy Designs is a custom embroidery business that brings joy to their customer’s lives through the creation of uniquely delightful gifts. No matter what the occasion, an heirloom quilt with your new grandbaby’s birth record, a one-of-a-kind ring bearer’s pillow, or a unique gift for a 50th wedding anniversary, Threaded Joy Designs is here for you.  Have an idea in mind but don’t see it?  We will do our best to bring your ideas to life and not back down from challenging requests. We encourage our customers to get CREATIVE in their designs!  Message me, we will make your idea happen. Threaded Joy Designs Website [https://threadedjoydesigns.com/]     In This Episode: * Marc’s shocking IBS diagnosis at age 28 and his refusal to rely on medication * Why gut health issues are at an all-time high * The missing nutrition education in modern healthcare * How emotional trauma and stress impact gut health * The surprising link between dental fillings and toxicity in the body * Practical diet changes to heal and maintain gut health * The role of functional medicine in finding real solutions * Major gut irritants in your everyday diet. * Detoxifying the body for dramatically improved health.   Get in Touch with Marc McLean: * Website [https://colitisremission.co.uk/] * Email [marc@colitisremission.co.uk] * Youtube [http://ucff3swqsjntbrcbs6qvjo5w]   Get in Touch with Nancy O: * https://nancyocares.com/ [https://nancyocares.com/] * https://n-o3.juiceplus.com/us/en [https://n-o3.juiceplus.com/us/en] * https://youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm [https://youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm?si=fa_BH4Q5jHZRjfjt] * https://www.facebook.com/inspirationsbynancy [https://www.facebook.com/inspirationsbynancy] * nancy@nancyocares.com [nancy@nancyocares.com]   Resources: For Gut Sake Podcast (Now “The Colitis Healing Path”) [https://colitisremission.co.uk/podcast/] Mark Hyman, MD | Physician | Advocate | Educator | Podcast Host [https://drhyman.com/] Marc’s FREE E-Book “Gut Rescue” [https://colitisremission.co.uk/gutrescue/] European Parliament’s Ban on Silver Fillings [https://www.herschelmedicaljournal.com/post/the-ban-on-dental-amalgam-a-potential-shift-in-dentistry]   Audio and show notes by Premier Podcast Promotions [http://premierpodcastpromotions.com/]

Cooking with Nancy O: The Perfect Winter Salad: Cozy, Crunchy, and Oh-So-Delicious!

"I eat salads occasionally just to remind my body that I’m in charge."  – Unknown Episode Summary: Who has time to cook? Let’s make something fast, healthy, and delicious! Winter doesn’t have to mean heavy meals! In this episode, we’re making a delicious Winter Salad using fresh greens from our very own Urban Tower Garden. With a mix of tart apples, crunchy pecans, dried cherries, and a homemade creamy maple dressing, this salad is packed with flavor, texture, and nutrition. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for meal prepping, and a great alternative to fast food when you're short on time. Tune in as we walk through the simple steps to bring this dish to life! 👩‍🍳 Want to see the magic happen? Watch me make it on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm [https://www.youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm] Don’t forget to subscribe to the YouTube channel to catch Nancy’s weekly cooking show! https://www.youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm [https://www.youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm] Order your Tower Garden today! https://nancyocares.com/a-healthier-you/ [https://nancyocares.com/a-healthier-you/] Sponsor Spotlight: Nancy’s Urban Tower Farm [https://www.nancysurbantowerfarm.com/]—a unique community space dedicated to healthy living, learning, and growing together. Located at 4530 A Lemay Ferry Rd, St. Louis, MO 63129 Stop by or give us a call today! 314-742-1217 In This Episode: * The importance of fresh, homegrown ingredients * The benefits of Tower Gardens and how they allow for fresh produce all year * Step-by-step breakdown of the Winter Salad recipe * How to meal prep salad ingredients for quick, healthy meals * Making a homemade creamy maple dressing (and avoiding common mistakes!) * Ideas for customizing the salad with different fruits and nuts Today’s Recipes: Winter Salad & Homemade Creamy Maple Dressing Winter Salad Ingredients: * Fresh lettuce mix (leaf lettuce, romaine, or any greens of choice) * 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional, especially for kids) * 1 Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced * 1 Golden Delicious apple (or another apple variety), thinly sliced * ½ cup dried cherries (not cranberries for a unique flavor) * ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped Instructions: 1. Wash and dry the lettuce, then chop or tear it into bite-sized pieces. 2. Add the thinly sliced apples and red onion. 3. Toss in dried cherries and pecans. 4. If serving immediately, drizzle with the creamy maple dressing (recipe below) and toss. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. Creamy Maple Dressing Recipe Ingredients: * ¼ cup reduced-fat mayonnaise * ¼ cup pure maple syrup * 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar (or substitute with white vinegar if needed) * ¼ cup canola oil * 1–2 tablespoons finely minced shallots * 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, adjust based on taste) Instructions: 1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, maple syrup, and white wine vinegar. 2. Slowly drizzle in the canola oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing. 3. Stir in the finely minced shallots and sugar. 4. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed. 5. Store in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.   Serving Suggestions & Variations: * Add pears for a different twist!  * Swap pecans for walnuts, pine nuts, or almonds. * Top with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a hearty meal. * Sprinkle poppy seeds for extra texture and flavor. Enjoy this refreshing and nutritious Winter Salad—perfect for a light holiday dish or an everyday meal prep staple!  Get in Touch with Nancy O: * https://www.nancysurbantowerfarm.com/ [https://www.nancysurbantowerfarm.com/] * https://n-o3.juiceplus.com/us/en [https://n-o3.juiceplus.com/us/en] * www.youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm [http://www.youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm] * https://www.facebook.com/inspirationsbynancy [https://www.facebook.com/inspirationsbynancy] * nancysurbantowerfarm@gmail.com [nancysurbantowerfarm@gmail.com]     Audio and show notes by  Premier Podcast Promotions [http://premierpodcastpromotions.com/]

Expert Interview: Can Stem Cells Reverse Alzheimer’s? Darlene Green’s Inspiring Journey

"As caregivers, we live in constant worry. Finding hope changes everything.” - Darlene Green   Episode Summary: What if the answer to Alzheimer’s was hiding in plain sight? Darlene Green’s life changed forever when her husband was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. Faced with no clear solutions, she embarked on a relentless search for hope—leading her to an unexpected discovery: stem cell activation patches. In this powerful episode, Darlene shares her caregiving journey, the science behind this groundbreaking approach, and how it’s transformed their lives. Could this be the future of brain health? Tune in to hear her incredible story.   About Darlene Green: Darlene is the Co-Author of the Best Selling Book "Become Empowered - Echoes of Grace and Strength" and is focused on helping people optimize their physical and emotional health, get to the root causes of issues that are causing illness, and get out of pain without drugs or pharmaceuticals. Darlene wants to share the affordable photobiomodulation technology that she wishes she had known about five years ago when her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer's because, after his steep decline, he experienced dramatic improvement in his memory, energy, engagement, sleep, and task capabilities in his first week!   Darlene also had a varied and unique leadership background in the Navy (20 years) and in the technology industry.   In This Episode: * Darlene’s journey as a caregiver for her husband with early-onset Alzheimer’s * The connection between mold exposure and neurodegenerative diseases * Stem cell activation patches and how they work * The incredible, rapid improvements her husband experienced once on the patch * Scientific studies on stem cell activation and brain health * The importance of nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes for brain function * The potential of these patches for other conditions, including chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, and cognitive decline   Resources: * How To Reverse Aging | Harmony Health LLC [https://howtoreverseaging.org/]   Get in Touch with Darlene Green: * iamreverseaging.com [http://iamreverseaging.com]   Get in Touch with Nancy O: * https://nancyocares.com/ [https://nancyocares.com/] * https://n-o3.juiceplus.com/us/en [https://n-o3.juiceplus.com/us/en] * https://youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm [https://youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm?si=fa_BH4Q5jHZRjfjt] * https://www.facebook.com/inspirationsbynancy [https://www.facebook.com/inspirationsbynancy] * nancy@nancyocares.com [nancy@nancyocares.com]

Cooking with Nancy O: Family Friendly Comfort Foods with a Twist

"Food tastes better when you eat it with your family." – Unknown   Episode Summary: What do you do when your zucchini grows an inch a day? You turn it into delicious creations the whole family will love!" Join Nancy O and her sidekick (and husband) Rick as they whip up healthy, mouthwatering recipes straight from their thriving tower garden. From zucchini-infused potato pancakes to a fast and flavorful meatloaf, this episode is packed with kitchen tips, family stories, and creative ways to use fresh produce. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just looking for new ways to elevate your cooking, this episode has something for everyone.   Sponsor Spotlight: Thank you to our incredible episode sponsors, Meat Your Kitchen, who provided us with two pounds of top-notch ground beef that keeps our kitchen healthy, and our family happy! Use code “helloMYK” at checkout and get $5 off your first order! Check them out today: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086129594992 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086129594992]   In This Episode: * How to add a healthy twist to traditional recipes. * Creative uses for zucchini and other fresh produce. * Tips for maximizing your tower garden harvest. * Easy, delicious meatloaf you can make in the microwave. * The versatility of zucchini—spiral it, shred it, bake it, or add it to soups, breads, and pancakes.     Today’s Recipes: Zucchini-Enhanced Potato Pancakes & Quick Flavorful Meatloaf   Zucchini-Enhanced Potato Pancakes   Ingredients: * 3 cups shredded zucchini or summer squash * 1 cup shredded russet potato * 3 eggs (lightly beaten) * 2 cloves of garlic (minced) * 1 small onion (minced) * 1 teaspoon salt * ¼ teaspoon pepper * ½ cup breadcrumbs * 2-3 tablespoons flour * 2 tablespoons oil (adjust as needed for a non-stick pan) Instructions: 1. Prepare Vegetables: * Shred zucchini and potato using a food processor or grater. * Place shredded vegetables in a colander, press to remove excess moisture, and pat dry with a paper towel. 2. Mix Wet Ingredients: * In a large bowl, combine eggs, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix well. 3. Add Dry Ingredients: * Stir breadcrumbs and flour into the wet mixture to create a slightly pasty consistency. 4. Incorporate Vegetables: * Add the shredded zucchini and potato, coating them evenly with the batter. 5. Cook Pancakes: * Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. * Scoop ¼ cup of the mixture into the pan and flatten slightly into a patty shape. * Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. 6. Serve: * Serve hot with a side of applesauce, green beans, or your favorite sauce. Quick Flavorful Meatloaf Ingredients: * Ground Meat: 1-2 pounds of ground beef (can substitute with turkey or other ground meat) * Tomato Sauce Mixture: * ½ cup tomato sauce * 2 tablespoons brown sugar * 1 teaspoon mustard * Binding Ingredients: * 2 eggs (1 egg for half the recipe) * ½ cup crushed crackers (or breadcrumbs as a substitute) * Salt and pepper to taste * Optional: Fresh parsley or other herbs from the garden   Instructions: 1. Prepare Tomato Sauce Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the tomato sauce, brown sugar, and mustard. Set aside. 2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, crackers, eggs, salt, and pepper. Add half of the tomato sauce mixture and mix thoroughly. 3. Shape and Cook: * For the microwave: Place the mixture in a microwave-safe round pan (or a casserole dish with a small glass in the center for even cooking). Cook on high for 12-14 minutes (for 2 pounds of meat). * For the grill: Shape into a loaf and grill until cooked through. 4. Top with Sauce: Spread the remaining tomato sauce mixture on top of the meatloaf during the last few minutes of cooking. 5. Serve: Slice and serve. This recipe is great for leftovers and can be reheated easily.   These recipes are healthy, family-friendly, and full of fresh flavors!   Don’t forget to subscribe to the YouTube channel to catch Nancy’s weekly cooking show! https://www.youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm [https://www.youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm]     Get in Touch with Nancy O: * https://www.nancysurbantowerfarm.com/ [https://www.nancysurbantowerfarm.com/] * https://n-o3.juiceplus.com/us/en [https://n-o3.juiceplus.com/us/en] * www.youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm [http://www.youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarm] * https://www.facebook.com/inspirationsbynancy [https://www.facebook.com/inspirationsbynancy] * nancysurbantowerfarm@gmail.com [nancysurbantowerfarm@gmail.com]   Audio and show notes by  Premier Podcast Promotions [http://premierpodcastpromotions.com/]

Fresh, Fast, and Sustainable: The Future of Urban Gardening

“Those magazine dieting stories always have the testimonial of a woman who wore a dress that could slipcover New Jersey in one photo and thirty days later looked like a well-dressed thermometer..” - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary: What if you could grow your own fresh, nutrient-dense produce right in your home – with no digging or weeding required? Fresh, fast, and sustainable—meet the aeroponic tower garden! In this episode, we unveil the incredible technology behind these vertical gardens that grow plants faster, increase yields, and reduce environmental impact. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, this is your guide to revolutionizing your health with homegrown produce.  Check out Nancy’s YouTube page to see her cooking show! https://www.youtube.com/@cookingwithnancyo [https://www.youtube.com/@cookingwithnancyo]   In This Episode: * The difference between indoor and flex towers for growing indoors or outdoors any time of the year. * How aeroponics works: air, water, and minerals for growth * Benefits: faster yields, minimal water use, and nutrient-dense food, minimal space. * Sustainability perks: reduced CO2 footprint, water conservation, and farmland conservation. * How to start your own tower garden and make it part of your daily routine.   Resources: * Tower Farms — Nancy's Urban Tower Farm | Inspiring You From the Inside Out [https://www.nancysurbantowerfarm.com/tower-farms]   Get in Touch with Nancy O: * https://www.nancysurbantowerfarm.com/tower-farms [https://www.nancysurbantowerfarm.com/tower-farms] * https://n-o3.juiceplus.com/us/en [https://n-o3.juiceplus.com/us/en] * https://www.youtube.com/@cookingwithnancyo [https://www.youtube.com/@cookingwithnancyo] * https://www.facebook.com/inspirationsbynancy [https://www.facebook.com/inspirationsbynancy] * nancy@nancyocares.com [nancy@nancyocares.com]   Discover Nancy's Urban Tower Farm – your local hub for healthy living and sustainable farming! Experience the delight of fresh, homegrown produce, connect with a vibrant community, and explore a wide range of classes, workshops, and family-friendly educational opportunities for all ages. Now open in St. Louis! Nancy's Urban Tower Farm | Inspiring You From the Inside Out [https://www.nancysurbantowerfarm.com/]   Audio and show notes by Premier Podcast Promotions [http://premierpodcastpromotions.com/]