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DRSladic.com
February 2026
LESS PRESSURE, BETTER PROGRESS Weekly Wins That Work
Remember all those New Year’s resolutions you set last month?
form is now the way I want it to be. Sure, it’s a little thing, but how many little things pile up into mountains that seem impossible to climb if we let them sit too long? In less than a week, I completed a task that I had been unable to tackle for an entire year. I’ll take that over ending the workweek with a bunch of incomplete tasks I’ll have to carry over (and groan about) into the following week.
Dr. Tom Sladic will host a Live Call on Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 6:30 p.m. EST . Readers are encouraged to call in and ask him anything! To participate, call (712) 432-8773 and enter conference ID #25555.
If reading that question makes you roll your eyes or let out a not-so-subtle sigh of resignation, you’re in good company. As much as we start a new year with the best of intentions, many of us lose sight of our fresh goals for the months ahead as soon as everyday distractions or minor setbacks come up. Before we know it, we’re left discouraged and ready to give up. I’m not immune to this dilemma. It’s common for me to look back at each year and consider all the things I meant to do that were cast aside as other commitments clouded my schedule. Often, I look at a lengthy list of goals and tasks and … well … just look at them and let them overwhelm me to the point where none of them ever get done. As the new year approached, I committed to trying something new to stay on track for 2026. It’s already working wonders for me, and I suspect it could be a considerable help to you as well. Instead of starting a new week with a long list of goals, I shortened and simplified that list considerably. Now, I take one simple task and make it my priority “to-do” item for
Whether your New Year’s resolutions involved minor dietary changes or a
the week. That’s it. The way I now see it, it’s better to accomplish 52 weekly goals over the course of the year than rush to achieve five things over five days and ultimately fall short and burn out. Right before I sat down to write this message, I had a positive experience that exemplified how well this new direction is helping me. We had a questionnaire form at our office that was good, but could’ve been better. Every time I’d see it, I’d think, “I really should modify that.” Well, last year came and went without the document being touched, and my inability to just sit down and get it done really irked me. On Monday this week, I decided to make updating that form the sole item on my list. And guess what? It’s only Thursday, and that
complete personal health overhaul, you may be surprised by how much easier it will be to keep them this year if you slow down, shorten your weekly list of targets to hit, and avoid attempting to do everything in a matter of days. Give yourself plenty of time to reach your benchmarks, enjoy every small victory, and be gentle with your sense of self-worth. By this time next year, you’ll have dozens of successes to celebrate instead of hundreds of missed opportunities that make you feel like you accomplished nothing.
What item will be on your list next week?
–Dr. Tom Sladic To order supplements or blood work, call 248-912-2962
THOUGHT OF THE MONTH
“Do small things with great love.”
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A WHIFF OF WELLNESS FRAGRANT PATHS TO CLARITY, COMFORT, AND CALM
A simple scent can do more than brighten a room. Fragrances can lift your mood, ease tension, and even help you sleep better. For older adults managing chronic pain, sleepless nights, or everyday stressors, aromatherapy offers a gentle, natural boost that works alongside your regular wellness plan. SIGNALING IN THE BRAIN When a scent reaches your nose, it sends a quick message to the brain’s emotional and memory centers, also known as the limbic system. That direct pathway helps explain why a single whiff can lift your spirits, calm an anxious moment, or trigger a comforting memory. Bright citrus scents can perk you up, while lavender often calms a restless mind.
can encourage the release of feel-good hormones, easing your discomfort. Studies show inhaled oils may provide mild relief for chronic pain, making them a soothing addition to your wellness toolkit. STARTING SAFELY • Always dilute: Combine 6–10 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil, such as coconut or grapeseed oil, to prevent skin irritation.
guaranteed for everyone, many older adults report feeling mentally sharper or more at ease after using familiar, pleasant scents in their homes. FINDING RELIEF THROUGH FRAGRANCE For those having trouble sleeping, lavender has been linked to deeper, more restful sleep. For maximum effect, try a simple massage with a diluted oil before bed, allowing the scent to settle in both through your skin and the air around you.
•
Never ingest oils: Concentrated oils can be toxic if swallowed.
• Check with your doctor. Especially if you take medications or have skin sensitivities. Aromatherapy can be a simple and delightful addition to your daily wellness routine. With a little experimentation, the right scents can lift your mood, ease tension, and add a touch of joy to everyday moments. A few mindful breaths could be all it takes to feel more centered, alert, and at peace. THE HIGH COST OF CAFFEINE Sadly, these figures go hand-in-hand with increased health risks associated with energy drinks and other high-caffeine products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes that it has received reports linking energy drink consumption to heart rhythm abnormalities, high blood pressure, and convulsions. From 2022–2023, America’s Poison Centers (a group representing more than 50 poison centers nationwide) reported a 24.2% increase in caffeine-related health emergencies among children and teens, with nearly 80% caused by unintentional exposure. In addition to the aforementioned heart and blood pressure problems, typical side effects of high caffeine exposure include dehydration, insomnia, and restlessness. THE BOTTOM LINE If you’re looking for a lift during the day, skip the energy drinks and build up your energy levels through lifestyle and nutritional changes. Please contact us for strategies that can help you feel more energetic without relying on caffeine and sugar to fuel your life.
SHARPENING YOUR MIND Some research has linked regular,
gentle exposure to certain aromas with improvements in attention and memory, especially when people make it part of their nightly routine. While results aren’t
While aromatherapy won’t cure pain, inhaling or gently massaging essential oils
stores, convenience stores, and gas stations nationwide, generating over $25 billion in annual revenue. Analysts predict that this sales figure will double within the next seven years. THE SPARK BEHIND THE SURGE Of course, the most significant selling point behind energy drinks is their inherently high caffeine content. And high it is. A Consumer Reports study of 27 different energy drinks revealed that some contained as much as 242 milligrams of caffeine per serving. To put that into perspective, a 12-ounce Coca-Cola contains 50 milligrams, and 5–8 ounces of coffee contains approximately 100 milligrams. Additionally, it’s worth noting that some canned energy drinks contain more than a single serving, resulting in a significantly greater dose of caffeine than many consumers may realize. These elevated amounts, coupled with the large amounts of sugar commonly found in these products, often lead drinkers to experience an energy surge followed by a crash similar to eating a candy bar. According to the National Institutes of Health, caffeine consumption among children and adolescents in the U.S. increased by 70% between 1977 and 2009.
LIQUID LIFTS, RISKY
CRASHES Energy Drinks Exposed
Just because something is widely used doesn’t mean it’s healthy.
Energy drinks may be in high demand among millions of consumers, but their potential risks far outweigh their benefits. Here are a few things to consider the next time you reach for a can. THE BIG BUSINESS OF BOOSTED ENERGY To say that energy drinks are popular would be an understatement. More than 50 different products are available at grocery
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THE LOW-FODMAP DIET FIX Basic Steps to Beating the Bloat
VEGAN CHICKPEA CURRY
Have you heard of the low-FODMAP diet? It might be worth a try!
Of all the health-related benchmarks people strive to achieve, maintaining a manageable and comfortable digestive system is elusive for many. Fortunately, digestive discomfort may no longer need to be a hindrance in your life. If you currently grapple with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), here is a brief overview of a dietary process available that may offer much-needed relief from your symptoms in a matter of weeks. AN ACTIONABLE ACRONYM There are plenty of letter combinations in the world of health, but here’s one to remember: FODMAP . The acronym refers to a group of carbohydrates ( fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols ) that can cause digestive discomfort in some individuals. Under the right circumstances and under a physician’s supervision, a low-FODMAP diet can help some patients identify and eliminate certain carbohydrates from their meal plans, significantly reducing the adverse physical effects of IBS and SIBO. A NEW DIRECTION FOR DIGESTIVE HEALTH A low-FODMAP diet involves temporarily eliminating and re-adding certain foods over the course of several weeks to determine which foods are causing digestive upset and which ones are safer to consume. During the initial elimination phase, low-
FODMAP dieters strictly avoid certain fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy products known to have a high FODMAP content. Within 2–4 weeks, the dieter reintroduces these items in their meals and monitors their effects on their body. From there, the dieter keeps the foods their body can easily handle and removes those that aggravate their digestive system. A QUICK GUIDE TO GENTLER DIGESTION The list of foods to consume or avoid during a low- FODMAP diet is extensive, varied, and often depends on portion size. It’s recommended that you compile your personal list with your physician before attempting this dietary change. However, here are a few general examples of high-FODMAP foods and their alte natives:
Ingredients
• 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 yellow onion, diced • 5 cloves garlic, minced • 4 fresh thyme sprigs • 1-inch knob of ginger, minced • 3 medium tomatoes, chopped • 1 tbsp tomato paste • 1 tbsp water • 2 tbsp curry powder • 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp allspice • 1/2 tsp ground ginger • 1/2 tsp ground cumin • 1/2 tsp garam masala • 1/4 tsp turmeric • 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes • 15 oz full-fat coconut milk • 1/2 cup vegetable stock • 29 oz canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained • 2–3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Directions
1. In a large, high-walled skillet, heat oil over medium heat. 2. Add onion; cook until softened. 3. Add garlic, thyme, and ginger; cook for an additional minute. 4. Add tomatoes; break apart and cook until softened. 5. In small bowl, whisk tomato paste and water; add to skillet with all spices and stir, adding oil as needed to create paste-like mixture. 6. Add coconut milk and stock; stir. 7. Add chickpeas.
8. Simmer mixture for 20–25 minutes until creamy. 9. Stir in spinach to wilt, 1–2 minutes, before serving.
Inspired by MakeItDairyFree.com
• Cheeses
WORD SEARCH
Eat: Cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan Don’t Eat: Ricotta, Cottage
• Vegetables
Eat: carrots, corn, celery (1/2 stalk) Don’t Eat: Sun-dried tomatoes, asparagus, sugar snap peas
DREAM EQUALITY FESTIVAL GROUNDHOG HEARTS KING LINCOLN MUFFIN PANCAKE RABBIT ROSES
• Fruits
Eat: Bananas, passion fruit, blueberries Don’t Eat: Apples, cherries, watermelon
If a low-FODMAP diet could be beneficial for you, please contact us today for more information, guidance, and support.
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1. Small Steps, Strong Finish
2. Aromatherapy Secrets for Seniors That Actually Work
Health Hazards in a Can
3. Vegan Chickpea Curry
Tackle Digestive Trouble Today
4. A Sharper Memory Starts on Your Plate
THINK BETTER, REMEMBER MORE Delicious Foods That Power Your Brain
You’ve likely heard the saying “you are what you eat,” but when it comes to memory, that’s more literal than you might think. Your brain is constantly working to process, store, and recall information, and it requires the right fuel to stay sharp. However, certain foods can actually improve memory, focus, and overall brain health. Here’s what to load up on next time you’re at the grocery store. FATTY FISH If your brain had a favorite food, it would probably be salmon. Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and trout are full of omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA and EPA, which are crucial for building and maintaining brain cells. These healthy fats also enhance communication between brain cells, which aids in memory and learning. If you’re not a seafood fan, you can still get omega-3s from plant-based sources like walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds. BERRIES Don’t underestimate these colorful little powerhouses. Blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries are packed with antioxidants called flavonoids that help protect your brain from oxidative stress (basically,
brain “rust”). These compounds can also boost communication between brain cells, which may help slow cognitive decline and improve short-term memory. Try tossing a handful of berries into your morning oatmeal or smoothie for an easy boost. LEAFY GREENS AND VEGGIES Spinach, kale, broccoli, and other leafy greens are rich in nutrients such as vitamin K, lutein, and folate, which are associated with improved cognitive function. These nutrients promote healthy blood flow to the brain and protect against inflammation. Studies even suggest people who eat a daily serving of greens have the memory of someone years younger. Not bad for a salad, right? WHOLE GRAINS AND NUTS Your brain runs on glucose, and whole grains provide a slow, steady supply of it, helping to keep you alert and focused. Brown rice, quinoa, and oats help maintain balanced energy levels, while nuts (especially almonds and walnuts) add vitamin E, another nutrient tied to improved memory and slower cognitive aging.
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