www.promedxp.com www.DesertHealthNews.com July/August 2025 Desert Health® The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 2 Lauren Del Sarto Founder/Publisher Lauren Del Sarto* FOUNDER/PUBLISHER An Independent Publication www.DesertHealthNews.com lauren@deserthealthnews.com • (760) 238.0245 @DesertHealthNews Distribution: Desert Health is distributed at 350+ locations throughout the Coachella Valley, including but not limited to, grocery stores, doctors’ offices, cafes and restaurants, spas, fitness centers and clubhouses. Please call for delivery to your retail location. Desert Health® is a California Corporation. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or in part, without the written consent of the Publisher is prohibited. The opinions and views expressed in these pages are those of the writer or persons interviewed and not necessarily those of Desert Health®. Desert Health® hereby expressly limits its liability resulting from any and all misprints, errors and/or inaccuracies any advertisement or editorial may contain. This publication is printed on paper sourced from sustainable forests and farms. Thank you to the Desert Health® team and all our marketing partners! Home delivery subscriptions available. Call (760) 238.0245. Get free delivery to your place of business. MADE POSSIBLE BY OUR ADVERTISERS THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THEIR BUSINESSES! Trish Lounsbury DISTRIBUTION Benjamin Katz WEB MASTER benjaminkatzcreative.com Doris Steadman A LITTLE OF EVERYTHING Carlotta Rinke,* MD, MBA LEAD EDITOR James Thomas DISTRIBUTION Heather McKay GRAPHIC DESIGN mkaydesign.com *Photo by Lani Garfield Lolo, Papa T and the littles MOST RELIABLE NON-EMERGENCY MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION AMERICA’S #1 PROMEDXP PROMEDXP (888) 769-7956 www.promedxp.com CALL/TEXT PROMEDXP® takes care of all aspects of travel booking coordination, transportation, trip monitoring, and additional services with utmost efficiency and professionalism. WHY CHOOSE US OVER UBER, LYFT AND OTHER NEMT? At PROMEDXP® we are committed to providing safe and reliable non-emergency medical transportation services to our clients. Our team understands the unique needs and challenges that patients and their families face when it comes to transportation to medical appointments, treatments, and procedures. PROMEDXP WHO WE SERVE Available throughout USA (Includes HI, AK & PR) Licensed Medical Professionals Courtesy Call Day Before Appointment Lobby Wait (Optional) Post Surgery Stay (Optional) Available Weekends & Holidays PROMEDXP PROMEDXP Self-Pay Passengers Dialysis Clinics Hospitals & Medical Facilities Personal Injury Law Firms Veterans Assisted Living & Senior Communities Case Managers & Social Workers Airports We Match Licensed Competitor Rates Get the best service — without paying more. Punctual, Professional, and Patient-Focused! Remember when carefree summer days were all about living in the moment? No school, no work, no worries. Waking up to sunshine, a smile and the excitement of what the day would bring! Then adulthood set in. We hope our summer edition helps lighten the load and bring you back to those days by adding humor to your relationships (p.1), keeping your creativity channels open (p.10), inspiring self-discovery through journaling (p.8), understanding the benefits of both meditation and prayer (p.1), and returning to the healing power of simplicity (p.13). We all strive to stay healthy and young at heart. Inside we get a glimpse at the Longevity Guidebook from Joseph Scherger, MD (p.14), learn secrets to glowing summer skin from beauty alchemist Brook Dougherty (p.19), and are introduced to a natural option for fine lines and wrinkles from Arek Apo, MD (p.19). We also share many opportunities to learn and connect with Wellness Day at The Shops featuring a variety of local resources and free presentation by Dr. Scherger (p.21); the Plant-Based Nutrition Healthcare Conference featuring Dean Ornish, MD, Joel Furhman, MD, Michael Greger, MD and other international leaders (p.13); and the Healthy Desert, Healthy You Summit featuring TIME honoree and environmental advocate Andrea Vidaurre (p.4). All are encouraged to attend these inspirational events. Wherever these summer days find you, we hope you awake with sunny skies, a smile on your face and excitement for what the day will bring! We look forward to seeing you out and about. With love and gratitude ~
. Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 3 www.desertcarenetwork.com/ercare Ask any parent or teacher what they feel are the most significant influences on the emotional state of their children and students and you'll probably get various answers. However, most polls and surveys measuring happiness and depression cite social media use as a leading cause of depression, loneliness and isolation. To address this concern, the Coachella Valley High School Health Academy (CVHS-HA) students teamed up with Eisenhower Health Family Medicine Residency in February to produce the Social Media Mental Health Town Hall. Now in its second year, the event attracted over 250 students and community members. Featuring physicians in emergency medicine, psychologists, a psychiatrist, and other health care and behavioral health professionals, topics discussed reminded students that social media is a major contributor to signs of depression in young adults. The event began with a poster exhibition in which students worked with resident physicians at Eisenhower Health to research causes for mental health issues related to social media. Some significant takeaways included: • A 2019 study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that teens who spent more than three hours a day on social media were at a significantly higher risk of developing mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. • A 2023 report by the American Psychological Association found that 32% of teen girls said that Instagram made them feel worse about their bodies, especially when comparing themselves to others. • A UK study from the Royal Society for Public Health found that social media use is linked to disrupted sleep, which can lead to increased feelings of anxiety and depression. Nighttime use was especially associated with poor sleep and emotional distress. The presenting physicians, psychologists and psychiatrist each highlighted and echoed the research in actual cases they have experienced. The town hall ended with a panel discussion. A compelling element of conversation was the extensive research on how the pleasure neurotransmitter dopamine affects the brains of young people. They experience a pleasure rush when the feedback is positive and depression when feedback is negative. Research shows that the more time young people spend on social media, the less confident they feel about themselves. From the town hall event, the CVHS HOSA-Future Health Professionals team won Bronze in state competition, advancing to the HOSA national conference in Nashville, Tennessee in June. The Mental Health Town Hall is an annual event with Eisenhower Health that allows students, medical professionals and the community to be educated in topics related to health care, behavioral and public health concerns, providing work-based learning for high school students. Simon Moore is the CVHS health academy coordinator and can be reached at simon.moore@cvusd.us. For more information on One Future Coachella Valley, visit www.onefuturecv.org. On a quiet Saturday morning in May, a bomb went off just steps from where I perform surgery every week. It didn’t happen in some distant city. It happened here, at the intersection of Highway 111 and Las Palmas, right across the street from our surgical center. The target was a fertility clinic. One person was killed; three others were injured. What was once a space for hope and healing became a site of violence. Although our clinic was not the target, we felt the impact—both physically and emotionally. On Sunday morning, I received a call from Ian Mullings, the administrator at the nearby El Mirador Surgery Center, informing me that due to the bombing, Monday’s surgeries needed to be postponed. Out of an abundance of caution, we paused our operations, not because the damage was extensive, but because our patients and staff deserve to walk into a space that feels calm, secure and fully prepared to facilitate healing. As a cataract surgeon, I’m used to precision and preparation. But no amount of planning can shield a medical practice from the emotional toll of something like this. The truth is, we needed time, not just to inspect the facility, but to process the gravity of what had occurred. It’s deeply unsettling to realize how quickly a place dedicated to care can become unsafe. That parking lot, where our patients normally arrive early in the morning, was filled with police tape, news vans and grief. The same building I pass by every week was now a crime scene. It could have been any one of us. And that fact lingers. What has stayed with me the most, isn’t only the tragedy—it’s the response. Colleagues checking in; patients calling to make sure we’re okay. The Coachella Valley is a small, tight-knit community, and when one part of it is shaken, we all feel it. As a surgeon, I spend my days restoring sight. But there are some things you don’t need perfect vision to see clearly: violence has no place in our community. Not against women. Not against health care providers. Not here. And while the headlines will eventually fade, our resolve will not. We returned to surgery the following week, and we’ll keep doing what we’ve always done—taking care of people. But this moment won’t pass unnoticed. It’s a reminder of how fragile life is, and how important it is to keep showing up for each other, even when the cameras leave. Dr. Keith Tokuhara is a board-certified ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon at Desert Vision Center in Rancho Mirage specializing in ethical, patient-first eye care. He can be reached at (760) 340.4700. www.DesertHealthNews.com July/August 2025 Students attended the town hall at Eisenhower Health’s Annenberg Health Sciences theater. Caring Through Crisis: A Local Surgeon’s Reflection on the Palm Springs Bombing By Keith Tokuhara, MD Social Media Mental Health Town Hall By Simon Moore, M.Ed., MHA, EMT www.desertcarenetwork.com/ercare Check in online at DesertCareNetwork.com/ERCare At Desert Care Network • Three Trauma Centers, including the only Level 1 Trauma Center in our Desert • Highest Level NICU for newborns in the Coachella Valley • Only DNV-Accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center • The Comprehensive Cancer Center • Hospitals in Palm Springs, Indio, and Joshua Tree Emergency care, close to home Minutes Matter Check in online at DesertCareNetwork.com/ERCare At Desert Care Network • Three Trauma Centers, including the only Level 1 Trauma Center in our Desert • Highest Level NICU for newborns in the Coachella Valley • Only DNV-Accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center • The Comprehensive Cancer Center • Hospitals in Palm Springs, Indio, and Joshua Tree Emergency care, close to home Minutes Matter
. www.eisenhowerhealth.org/growth This September, our community comes together once again to shine the light on environmental issues affecting our valley at the second annual Healthy Desert, Healthy You Summit. The solutions-oriented gathering will take place September 11-12 at the Westin Mission Hills Rancho Mirage and is free for all to attend. Presented by the Desert Healthcare District and Foundation (DHCD) and produced by Hocker Productions, the summit builds on the success of last year’s inaugural event, attracting over 300 community leaders, businesses, educators, researchers and residents to inform, educate, discuss and catalyze innovation to find solutions and improve population health. Thursday will feature speakers, panels and breakout sessions, while Friday offers the opportunity to join one of two free tours departing from The Westin. Tour sites to be explored include a windmill farm, hydrogen fuel plant, solar energy facility, composting project and gardens, among others. Topping the list of presenters is keynote speaker Andrea Vidaurre, named one of TIME magazine’s most influential people of 2025 alongside Serena Williams, Snoop Dogg and Simone Biles, to name a few. The environmental justice advocate, policy analyst and Inland Empire resident has worked diligently to reduce harmful truck and rail emissions across the region. In 2023, she led grassroots efforts that persuaded the California Air Resources Board to adopt two historic transportation regulations. In 2024, Vidaurre was awarded the Goldman Environmental Prize for North America with TIME citing her “unique ability to find the intersection of policy and people” and her championing of marginalized communities. “We are in the most important years of addressing the climate crisis,” encourages Vidaurre. The organization she co-founded, People’s Collective for Environmental Justice, is striving to transition the logistics industry to zero emissions “to ensure that communities are not sacrificed for the sake of next-day delivery.” Other summit topics include navigating the future of water, balancing opportunity and environmental impact of restoring the Salton Sea, youth in action today, advancing renewable energy and green technology, and more. Attendees will also hear proposed solutions from DHCD 2024 RFP grantees. “This year, we expect attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the Coachella Valley environment and its impact on residents’ health,” said Chris Christensen, DHCD CEO, adding that the tours will demonstrate the efforts already underway to address our environmental challenges. For more information, see ad on page 22. To register for the free summit, visit www.healthydeserthealthyyou.com. www.DesertHealthNews.com July/August 2025 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 4 Eisenhower Health is the local favorite for patients and physicians alike. Our not-for-profit status gives doctors the environment they need to do their best work. Here, they can focus on providing patients comprehensive, compassionate care because we don’t have to worry about pleasing shareholders — we answer only to the community we serve, and that means you. We reinvest every dollar we make into enhancing our services and infrastructure. And that translates into exceptional care for everyone in the community. At Eisenhower Health, our bottom line is providing great care. Learn more at EisenhowerHealth.org/Growth Our Patients Are Our Priority. “You Don’t Become a Doctor to Keep Shareholders Happy. You Do It to Keep People Healthy.” ~Eric Leroux, MD, MBA, VP and Chief Quality Officer EisenhowerHealth.org/Growth Keynote Speaker and TIME honoree Andrea Vidaurre www.desertvascularassociates.com Personalized quality care delivered with compassion and integrity 760.902.1511 74000 Country Club Dr. • Suite G-3 • Palm Desert DesertVascularAssociates.com Special Interests: • Varicose Veins/Venous Insufficiency • Carotid Artery Disease • Aortic Aneurysms • Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) • Dialysis Access • Chemotherapy Port Insertion Accepting new patients and most major insurance plans Before After Anna Gasparyan, MD, FACS Vascular Surgeon Desert Vascular Associates Producer Jeff Hocker, sponsors Rich Ramhoff of Desert Care Network and Lauren Del Sarto of Desert Health, and moderator Patrick Evans of KESQ Community Convenes Over Environmental Challenges By Lauren Del Sarto
. How about some playful ways to rekindle laughter: • Create inside jokes or nicknames. I call my husband “Hound” because I want him to be loyal, obedient and protective. It makes us laugh every day, especially the “obedient” part. • Use humor to defuse tension. When things go wrong, we say, “Some days you’re the bug, some days you’re the windshield.” Ask yourself, “Will this be funny later?” and try to laugh now. • Tell jokes or share funny stories. Notice when laughter has been missing and bring it back intentionally. • Reminisce about funny moments. A 2015 study in Personal Relationships found that couples who recalled shared laughter felt more satisfied than those who remembered neutral or even positive, but humorless, memories.3 • Watch comedies together. Turn off the news and watch something that generates laughter: a funny movie, old sitcoms like Seinfeld, or even America’s Funniest Videos. Some doctors’ offices even play “I Love Lucy” to lighten the mood. • Find humor in everyday activities. My husband and I count dogs while biking, turning our daily ride into a playful game. Use humor wisely Not all humor is helpful. Sarcasm, passive-aggressive jokes or humor that mocks can damage trust. Men often bond through teasing and bantering, while many women may not respond the same way. The best humor is inclusive, affectionate and kindhearted. Laughing matters Laughter isn’t just a byproduct of a good relationship—it’s a building block. If you’re missing laughter in your relationship, don’t wait. Invite it back in. Laughing together might be the most underrated way to grow closer, to weather challenges and to enjoy the journey. Dr. Susan Murphy is a best-selling author, business consultant and speaker on relationships, conflict, leadership and goal-achievement. Her newest book, Leading Successful Teams: How To Create a Winning Culture, is out now. She can be reached at Susan@DrSusanMurphy.com or visit www.DrSusanMurphy.com. Reference: 1) https://www.wilsonmedical.com/news/2022/02/12/a-happy-heart-is-a-healthy-heart-1#; 2) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6609137/; 3) Kurtz, L. E., & Algoe, S. B. (2015). Putting laughter in context: Shared laughter as behavioral indicator of relationship well-being. Personal Relationships, 22(4), 573–590. https://doi.org/10.1111/pere.12095 In the past, radiation treatment for breast cancer typically required a long course of daily therapy. Many women developed painful burns and unsightly skin changes toward the end of treatment. Advances in technology over the past 10 years now allow radiation therapy to be given in as little as five treatments to only a small portion of the breast, instead of 16 to 30 treatments to the entire region of the body. This greatly reduces the collateral damage done to the adjacent healthy breast tissue, heart and lungs.1,2,3 This new technique is called stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and is now offered when accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) is warranted over standard whole-breast radiation. The advancement reduces the chances of a serious skin burn and blistering from 18% to only 1%. In other words, 99% of women complete treatment with very few side effects.1 This new option for radiation therapy is now possible because modern equipment can image the breast prior to each treatment and detect the surgical bed with great accuracy. During surgeries preceding radiation, surgeons may also place fiducials or small clips to help oncologists treat the precise location. Where standard radiation therapy commonly leaves marks on the skin, some centers also offer “tatooless” treatment options. SBRT may not be appropriate for everyone but is a great option for women deemed “suitable” by National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines. These women are 50+ years old, have stage I malignancies less than 2cm in size, and cancers that are estrogen receptor positive cancer (ER+), grade 1 or 2, and with no lymph node involvement. Those who have had surgery to remove malignancies are also considered candidates. APBI shares the same low recurrence rates as standard whole breast radiation therapy for patients that meet these criteria. Studies show that after 10 years, over 90% of women remained breast cancer free with either whole breast or accelerated partial breast radiation.4,5 If these criteria are met, this shortened radiation treatment course is also ideal for women over 70 years old who do not tolerate the five years of anti-estrogen therapy but still require post-surgery treatment to prevent recurrences. Cure rates for breast cancer have greatly improved, so the next step in treatment care is to limit side effects and optimize a patient’s quality of life. For more information on this new treatment option, please consult with a radiation oncologist. Carolyn Barnes, MD, is a board certified radiation oncologist specializing in the treatment of various malignancies including breast cancer. She is with Radiant Cancer Care in Rancho Mirage and can be reached at (760) 202.3946. For more information, visit www.radiantcancercare.com. References: 1) Clin Breast Cancer 2021;21:231-238; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33121891; 2) Clin Breast Cancer 2024;24:253-260; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1526820923003282; 3) https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/advance-article/ doi/10.1093/eurheartj/ehaf260/8116780; 4) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25605582; 5) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32840419 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 5 www.DesertHealthNews.com July/August 2025 www.palmspringsendodontics.com www.ranchomirageendodontics.com www.palmspringsendodontics.com www.ranchomirageendodontics.com www.jordanptcenter.com www.palmspringsendodontics.com www.ranchomirageendodontics.com Laser Endodontic Treatment Laser energy enhances the effect of disinfectants used in the canals, further eliminating bacterial infection. Ozone Therapy for Endodontics An advanced preventative therapy that fights off bacteria and pathogens which typically cause most oral health problems. Cone Beam CT Scan Cutting-edge 3D imaging of teeth, nerve pathways, soft tissue and bone that allows for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment of dental infections. Surgical Microscope Endodontics require significant attention to detail and precision. This advanced dental microscope is instrumental in providing the best outcomes for our clients. RanchoMirageEndodontics.com PalmSpringsEndodontics.com Offering Biological Root Canal Therapy for Optimal Oral and Whole Body Health We use advanced technology and biological techniques to greatly reduce ambient bacteria and protect the overall health of our patients. Eddie Al Halasa, DDS, MSD Board Certified Endodontist Rita J. Hung, DMD, MPD, MSD Board Eligible Endodontist Advanced Technology Root canal therapy • Endodontic retreatment Apicoectomy • IV and oral sedation dentistry RANCHO MIRAGE (760) 779-0350 71780 San Jacinto Dr., Ste. B3 Rancho Mirage PALM SPRINGS (760) 318-0101 558 S. Paseo Doroteo, Ste. 9 Palm Springs PERSONALIZED CARE FOR THE ENTIRE COACHELLA VALLEY Top: area affected with whole breast treatment. Bottom: a much smaller volume of tissue is radiated with partial breast treatment. Humor can help defuse tension and leave a positive memory of the situation. Breast Cancer Breakthroughs New radiation technology reduces side effects By Carolyn Barnes, MD Humor Continued from page 1
. www.promedxp.com Coachella is making a tangible move towards a healthier future with Blue Zones Project up and running. This initiative, drawing insights from the blue zones regions of the world whose residents have experienced remarkable healthy longevity, aims to integrate healthier choices into the systems, policies and places that influence the daily lives of all residents. The goal is straightforward: improve well-being, reduce health care costs, and strengthen community ties by making healthy choices easier (or even unavoidable). It’s not about individual programming or individual behavior change; it's about building a culture and a place where longevity and good health are a natural outcome of how the city is designed and how its residents live. This effort is part of a broader Riverside County effort with other Blue Zones initiatives in Palm Springs, Banning, Riverside and Mead Valley. The effort brings together a diverse group of public and private sponsors committed to improving the region's well-being, including Riverside University Health System Public Health, Inland Empire Health Plan Foundation, Kaiser Permanente, Molina Healthcare, Eisenhower Health, Riverside County and all the respective cities. In Coachella, a dedicated full-time team is spearheading Coachella's Blue Zones Project journey: Angela Zepeda, Executive Director: Angela leads the team and oversees the implementation of Blue Zones Project and the Blueprint which will guide the work. For ten years, Angela served as the Coachella elected city clerk and has deep experience in public administration and strategic planning. Job Huerta, Organizations & Well-Being Lead: Job works with employers, local businesses, schools and civic organizations to become part of the Blue Zones Project movement. He brings a collaborative approach to community transformation with his background in policy advocacy, voter engagement and governmental affairs. Jesus Ahkin Gonzalez, Public Policy Lead: Jesus will focus on working with the community to create systemic, sustainable well-being impact with policy optimization. He leverages his background in legislative strategy and policy change from his experience in both the California Legislature and county government. Cassandra Teran, Community Engagement Lead: Cassandra focuses on connecting with residents directly, empowering them to actively participate and shape Blue Zones Project in Coachella. Cassandra has over 20 years of experience in community engagement and community-building, including 14 years with the Torres Martinez Tribal TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) and seven years with FIND Food Bank. Stay tuned for information about the community-wide celebration for Coachella, which will take place in the fall. In the meantime, the work has begun with events like June's screening of the Netflix series "Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones.” Palm Springs launched its Blue Zones Project with a community kickoff event on Thursday, May 15, at Festival Theaters. This public debut signaled the start of the transformative effort to embed healthier choices into the fabric of the city, making them easy and accessible for all residents. Dan Buettner, Jr., EVP and chief development officer of Blue Zones, gave the keynote speech, highlighting the original Blue Zones research and the way Blue Zones Project applies that research to create healthier, happier communities. The event featured remarks from community leaders, including Palm Springs Mayor Pro Tem Naomi Soto, who underscored the city's commitment to the project's longterm success, and Martin Massiello, President and CEO of Eisenhower Health, one of the project’s key partners. Attendees also had the opportunity to meet the dedicated local Palm Springs team and national Blue Zones leaders at a reception following the presentation. The kickoff was a powerful demonstration of the community's readiness to embrace this multi-year plan for a healthier, more vibrant Palm Springs. Get involved, learn more and stay in touch at www.bluezonesprojectcoachella.com and www.bluezonesprojectpalmsprings.com. www.DesertHealthNews.com July/August 2025 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 6 www..movementforlliife..com//desert we’re here to keep you on the court (because sitting out isn’t an option) Cathedral City 35325 Date Palm Dr. Ste 131 Cathedral City, CA 92234 (760) 202-0368 Indio 81557 Dr Carreon Blvd. Suite C4 Indio, CA 92201 (760) 347-6195 We believe in movement—at every age, for every stage of life. Our approach to physical therapy is designed to keep you active, painfree, and living your best life. We offer: Orthopedic rehab with board-certified PTs to restore mobility and strength Sports performance to boost your game (including pickleball!) Work injury recovery to get you back on track Community News Blue Zones Project Coachella: Meet the Team Blue Zones Project Palm Springs Kickoff MOST RELIABLE NON–EMERGENCY MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION AMERICA’S #1 At PROMEDXP® we are committed to providing safe and reliable non-emergency medical transportation services to our clients. Our team understands the unique needs and challenges that patients and their families face when it comes to transportation to medical appointments, treatments, and procedures. PROMEDXP Available throughout USA (Includes HI, AK & PR) Licensed Medical Professionals Courtesy Call Day Before Appointment Lobby Wait (Optional) Post Surgery Stay (Optional) Available Weekends & Holidays We Match Licensed Competitor Rates Get the best service — without paying more www.promedxp.com CALL/TEXT (888) 769-7956
. the nerve that you start to feel pain. Therefore, treating cavities sooner rather than later prevents them from extending deeper because, when left untreated, a larger portion of tooth is broken down by the decay, which requires a dental crown. When a tooth with a large cavity is treated with a crown, the decay is essentially removed and the crown will seal the tooth and ultimately restore function. Root canal treatment If decay extends deep enough into the nerve of a tooth, a root canal may also be needed. When a root canal is completed, a tooth becomes more susceptible to fracture as a larger portion of the tooth is standardly removed. Therefore, after undergoing root canal therapy, a dental crown is usually recommended to provide protection and restore function. Esthetic treatment Dental crowns and dental veneers are common restorative treatments used for cosmetic purposes. Some indications include changing the shape of current teeth, changing the overall shade of teeth and restoring a more uniform smile by treating multiple teeth. A more comprehensive treatment plan may be developed to ultimately plan for the best esthetic treatment outcome. When deciding whether or not to cap a tooth, consider the tooth’s longevity, function and appearance. Dental crowns are effective restorations that can address multiple dental concerns. Sarah Khoshniyati (“Dr. Sarah”) is a dentist with Palm Desert Smiles and can be reached at (760) 568.3602. Throughout the years, I’ve encountered many clients who repeat dysfunctional behaviors like they are on autopilot. They rarely question or challenge their choices because people usually do what is familiar. For many of us, the known is preferable to the unknown. We’re more likely to remain in dead-end situations than to deal with change. There seems to be a built-in resistance, and I believe, that if you resist, it persists. My mantra is that unless you explore it, you’re either going to become it or get into a relationship with it. Resistance to change can come in many forms. Justifying or rationalizing can keep us entangled in a web of denial and negativity. Fear of the unknown can squash any opportunity for personal and/or spiritual growth. Feelings of low self-worth might make one cling to fear and the critical self, whereas a positive self-image can enhance the belief that if I leap, the net will appear. Change can feel stressful and scary but taking risks doesn’t have to feel risky. It’s important to learn that being uncomfortable in your own skin can offer a plethora of opportunities. In his Psychology Today article, “The Soil You Come From,” journalist Jeff Chu states, “Soil can be denuded and degraded, and it can be nourished and amended.” So too, can our views about change. We might see the human mind as a compost pile. The top layer of decomposing organic material can be compared to a traumatic past, but one can realize that underneath is a universe that “teems with so many life forms and so much potential.” Digging deeper into the soil, Chu notes, “the colors and textures began to change…the soil felt light and soft, almost fluffy… clean, fresh.” If one dares to dig deeper and chooses to let go of “impossible dreams, unhelpful illusions, bad habits and harmful longings,” the potential for living one’s purpose can be limitless. The reasons for change must be compelling enough to outweigh the reluctance. Change is not always easy; it demands courage, introspection and the willingness to confront the unknown. Yet, the power of transformation lies in its ability to open doors to new perspectives and possibilities previously unseen. Unlearning the dysfunctional soft wiring of the mind (which comes in the form of negative fixed beliefs) and step into uncharted territory can be life-giving and life-sustaining. I wrote the following to help inspire clients challenged with facing change: If I decide to change Might have to rearrange Behaviors that at first seem strange Like climbing a foreboding mountain range. Healthy change supports a ripple or “butterfly effect” into the world around us. Maybe now would be the perfect time to spread your wings and fly. Dr. Amy Austin is a licensed marriage and family therapist (MFC#41252) and doctor of clinical psychology in Rancho Mirage. She can be reached at (760) 774.0047. www.DesertHealthNews.com July/August 2025 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 7 The reasons for change must be compelling enough to outweigh the reluctance. www.palmdesertsmiles.com The latest technologies for a healthier, more youthful smile Sarah A. Khoshniyati, DDS "Dr. Sarah" Nicholas S. Baumann, DDS "Dr. Nick" Technology in dentistry is very exciting and evolves as new materials and equipment are introduced. We select only the most proven, effective, patient and comfort-focused technologies. • CEREC Same-Day Crowns • Implants • iCAT 3D X-Ray/Digital X-Rays • Modern Periodontal Care • Hard/Soft Tissue Laser • Mercury-free Practice • Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation • TMD/TMJ Support • Conscious Sedation • Fountain of Youth Dentures • KöR® Teeth Whitening Services and products we offer: 760.568.3602 44239 Monterey Avenue • Palm Desert PalmDesertSmiles.com Follow us! Have you ever wondered why your dentist suggests a crown? Dental crowns are unique restorations that can address multiple issues. They are custom-made caps that cover the entire tooth to restore its function, strength and appearance. Dental crowns are prescribed for various reasons, but most commonly to treat teeth that have been largely compromised due to decay or trauma, and also for esthetic purposes to enhance appearance. Here are some indications that may require crown placement: Cracked or fractured teeth Dental crowns restore strength to cracked or fractured teeth. Old restorations, such as amalgam fillings, take up a large majority of the tooth and are more prone to cracks over time. They may require a crown to replace and restore function and prevent further cracking. Tooth decay Have you ever been told you need a filling even though you do not feel pain? There is a large misconception that cavities are always accompanied by pain. When a small cavity in the tooth crosses the junction between the enamel and dentin, a filling is usually recommended. It is not until the cavity is much larger and near To Cap or Not to Cap Reasons to cap a compromised tooth By Sarah Khoshniyati, DDS "I Don’t Want to Change!" By Amy Austin, PSYD, LMFT www.capcomts.com WE NEED YOU! Volunteers in Medicine provides FREE primary care for uninsured adults who have limited income and don’t have insurance. Each year, many of your fellow MDs, DOs, PAs, NPs and nurses give their time and talent to VIM. Make a difference today! Become a volunteer and help our community get healthy! For more information on how you can help call (760) 342-4414
. In a world that often expects men to be stoic, strong and emotionally contained, the simple act of journaling can be a radical act of self-care and transformation. For generations, men have been taught to suppress their feelings and avoid vulnerability—messages that, over time, can lead to emotional stagnation, disconnection and even mental health challenges. Journaling offers a quiet yet powerful way to reconnect with one’s inner world, develop self-awareness and become more intentional in life. Journaling is more than just putting pen to paper. It’s a way of listening to oneself. It allows a man to step away from the noise of the outside world and hear his own voice clearly—unfiltered, unjudged and raw. This internal dialogue can be a rich source of insight and growth, especially for those who might not feel comfortable speaking openly with others. One of the key benefits of journaling is emotional processing. By writing about experiences, frustrations and hopes, men can begin to name and understand their emotions—something many were never taught how to do. This process alone can lead to significant emotional relief and resilience. Rather than bottling things up or numbing out, journaling becomes a safe space to explore what’s really going on beneath the surface. Journaling also helps men clarify their thoughts and goals. Whether it’s working through a tough decision, reflecting on past choices or envisioning a better future, the act of writing helps organize the mind. This clarity can be empowering—it allows a man to move forward with more confidence and purpose. Another compelling reason to journal is its ability to track personal growth over time. Reading old entries can be eye-opening: patterns become visible, progress becomes measurable and forgotten lessons come back into focus. This can be incredibly affirming, especially for men working on changing habits, healing from past wounds or striving toward new goals. For men who are new to journaling, it’s important to know there is no “right” way to do it. Some prefer stream-of-consciousness writing, others use prompts or guided journals. The goal isn’t to write perfectly—it’s to be honest. Five minutes a day can be enough to start seeing the benefits. In a culture where men are often praised for productivity over presence, journaling offers a different kind of success: the success of knowing oneself deeply. It cultivates inner strength, emotional literacy and authenticity—qualities that make men not only more resilient, but also more connected in their relationships, and fulfilled in their lives. Use these prompts to start exploring your inner world. You don’t have to write perfectly—just honestly. Choose one that speaks to you and begin. 1) What am I feeling right now, and why? (Even if you’re not sure—start with whatever comes up) 2) What’s been weighing on me lately? (Is there something I’ve been avoiding, suppressing or carrying alone?) 3) When do I feel most like myself? (Describe the place, activity or moment where you feel grounded and true) 4) What does 'being a man' mean to me today? (Am I living up to my own definition, or someone else’s?) 5) What do I need more of in my life right now? What do I need less of? 6) What am I proud of myself for—even if no one else knows about it? 7) What am I afraid people would think if they knew the real me? (This one takes courage—but it can open the door to deep healing) 8) If I could speak honestly without fear of judgment, what would I say—to myself or someone else? 9) What lessons have I learned from pain, failure or struggle? (What have those experiences taught me about who I am?) 10) What kind of man do I want to become—and what’s one small step I can take toward that today? Journaling doesn’t require an audience, a plan or a polished result. All it asks is a willingness to be real. And for many men, that’s the first step toward powerful, lasting self-improvement. Alison Mullins is the founder of Coppermoon and creator of The Aligned Man Project, a coaching program and retreat designed specifically for men. For more information, contact alison@coppermoonrising.com or www.coppermoonrising.com. www.DesertHealthNews.com July/August 2025 Natural Options The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 8 www.livewellclinic.org 760.771.5970 78900 Ave. 47, Suite 102 • La Quinta info@livewellclinic.org www.livewellclinic.org @LiveWellClinicLaQuinta @LiveWellClinic Sonja Fung, ND Naturopathic Doctor Medical Director Live Happy, Live Well Offering Telemedicine Naturopathic Primary Care ProLon FMD (Intermittent Fasting Diet) Photodynamic Therapy Sound Baths Last Wednesday of each month $30/person Journaling allows time to step away from the noise and listen to one’s self. Journaling offers a different kind of success: the success of knowing oneself deeply. www.coppermoonrising.com Alison Mullins SPEAKER | WRITER | TEACHER | COACH Aligned Man Retreat Where Your Truth Meets Your True North Kaaba Luum Resort • Tulum, Mexico February 6-10, 2026 To learn more visit Coppermoonrising.com/retreats Life/Health Coaching • Motivational Speaking Yoga and Sound Healing alison@coppermoonrising.com 760.485.3433 www.gatherlaquinta.com 760.219.7953 78010 Main Street Suite 201 gatherlaquinta.com yoga barre breathwork meditation sound baths pilates/yoga fusion Scan to view schedule The Power of Journaling for Men A tool for self-discovery and growth By Alison Mullins Meditation versus Prayer Continued from page 1 As documented in the 2024 film “Source,” emerging clinical research continues to affirm what ancient traditions have long known: regular meditation has profound effects on reducing stress, improving heart rate variability, lowering inflammation, and boosting immune function. When we tend to our energy, we tend to our being and the world around us. So, whether you pray, meditate or both, know this: these practices are not reserved for the deeply spiritual or the religious. They are available to everyone. They are invitations to connect with your authentic self and to the quiet wisdom that’s always been there. Delphine Channels is a life coach, host of the Delphine’s Circle YouTube interview series and founder of Harmoneum.com, an online community for coaching and daily practices. She can be reached at delphine@harmoneum.com.
. www.DesertHealthNews.com July/August 2025 Natural Options The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 9 www.acqpoint.com Get relief from pain and stress now! Acupuncture • Electro Acupuncture Cupping • Chinese Herbs K-Laser • Cold Laser For appointments, book online at AcQpoint.com or call 760.345.2200 77682 Country Club Drive, Ste. G • Palm Desert Diane Sheppard, PhD, LAc ACUPUNCTURE CHINESE HERBS Dr. Sheppard is a California state-licensed acupuncturist and Chinese herbologist. She earned her Masters of Science in Oriental Medicine degree from the oldest school of Chinese medicine in the United States – Samra University. She also holds a Ph.D. in Eastern Medicine. www.humineral.com We are made of minerals. Replenishing is good. Minerals and water are necessities. Minerals are responsible for every biological process in the body. Quality Humic/ Fulvic Acid Mineral food supplementation to help repair and replenish. Add me to your water, coffee, juice or smoothie! www.humineral.com 818.400.7657 | info@humineral.com Summer sun and festivities are upon us, so eating lighter foods feels good and makes sense. I am eating salads in plentitude and love adding a healthy variety of crunch with seeds and nuts. My latest favorite is sunflower seeds which I eat out of a bag, or add to avocado toast, summer soups, eggs, dips, or any green garden, potato or pasta salad. Sunflower seeds offer a multitude of health benefits due to their rich nutrient profile. They are packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that can boost energy, reduce inflammation and support overall well-being. Take a look at some of the incredible benefits of these little seeds: Healthy antioxidant. Sunflower seeds are rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin E and selenium, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Healthy blood sugar management. Their low glycemic index aides in alleviating blood sugar spikes, while high fiber and healthy fats aid in digestion and absorption of carbohydrates. Healthy brain. They are also rich in vitamin B6, which may help improve mood, concentration and memory. Walnut and pumpkin seeds are also great support for brain health. Healthy heart support. Sunflower seeds contain healthy fats, particularly polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which are linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. They also provide essential minerals like magnesium, which may help regulate heart rhythm and blood pressure. Healthy immune system support. They are a good source of vitamin E, selenium and zinc, all which play crucial roles in supporting a healthy immune system and increasing the ability to fight off viruses. Selenium is a trace mineral; zinc is a major mineral. While we know vitamin E is great for the skin, it is also a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage, while zinc and selenium are essential for the function of immune cells. Food-based vitamin C is the best source to consume. Healthy pH/reduced inflammation. Sunflower seeds contain compounds that help reduce inflammation potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases. Studies suggest conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) may have an anti-cancer fatty acid. Sunflower seeds have the highest CLA content compared to most other seeds, including sesame and flax. Healthy skin. Sunflower seeds’ oleic and linoleic acids aid in collagen and elastin production. Wow! Something so tiny, offering a multitude of healthy reasons to incorporate them into our daily diets. So, with the next salad, quiche or side dish you whip up for your summer celebration or BBQ, go wild and throw on some sunflower seeds for good health. Stay healthy friends! Candice Nicole is a health advocate and founder of HUmineral, a producer of plant nutrient mineral supplements. She can be reached at info@HUmineral.com or (818) 400.7657. For more information, visit www.humineral.com. Sources: 1) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8445494/; 2) https://health.clevelandclinic.org/are-sunflower-seeds-good-for-you Seeds of Wisdom and Health By Candice Nicole Parkinson’s disease (PD) is most commonly known for its effects on movement (tremors, stiffness, slowed mobility), but for those living with it, the effects often extend far beyond affecting mood, sleep, digestion, cognition and overall vitality. A naturopathic approach to managing the disease symptoms involves digging deeper: identifying underlying contributors, addressing nutrient imbalances and promoting a better quality of life. Working in tandem with a patient’s medical team, naturopathic care may include some of the following: Labs. Strategic lab work can often help identify underlying concerns. Organic acid testing often reveals patterns of mitochondrial dysfunction,1 with PD patients showing low vitamin C levels and elevated dopamine metabolites. Detecting these patterns can offer direction for targeted nutrient repletion—particularly vitamin C, which is a cofactor in dopamine metabolism (the heart of PD).2 Measuring oxidative stress markers, particularly F2-Isoprostanes, helps assess cellular strain. Optimal levels are below 0.86 ng/mg and, when elevated, high-dose CoQ10 may be helpful.3 Micronutrient testing frequently reveals deficiencies in B12,4 omega-3 fatty acids,5 vitamin D6,7 and trace minerals.8-10 Hair and urine metal testing also prove useful,11 often uncovering toxic burdens of manganese,9, 12 aluminum13 or iron9, common but overlooked contributors to neurodegeneration. Cholesterol is another important factor. The brain produces its own cholesterol locally, and very low blood cholesterol may impair function. Coconut oil and red palm oil, both plant-based saturated fats, can support the brain’s own cholesterol production. Recent data suggest that patients with higher DHA levels have significantly lower risk for dementia.14 Preliminary non-human studies suggest that levodopa, a medication commonly used to treat Parkinson’s, may lower DHA levels,15,16 thus DHA testing and repletion may be warranted for neurologic balance. Blood sugar regulation also plays a key role in PD progression. Elevated A1c is associated with brain atrophy and cognitive decline,17 so continuous glucose monitoring, along with a fiber-rich, carb-balanced diet would be indicated.18 More key nutrients. There are a few more key supplements that often support neurologic function including glutathione (600 mg daily, ideally intranasal),19 curcumin, resveratrol,20 quercetin,21 melatonin,22 and probiotics.23 For some, GI testing to rule out H. pylori, SIBO or sensitivities is often warranted, especially when symptoms like bloating, constipation or reflux are present.24,25 Protein intake should be managed thoughtfully, as dietary protein can reduce the absorption of levodopa. Lemon juice, interestingly, may enhance availability of levodopa in the gut. Non-motor symptoms to treat/monitor. Many of the most disruptive effects of Parkinson’s are non-motor in nature. Fatigue, apathy, orthostatic hypotension, constipation, urinary dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, hallucinations, loss An integrative approach considers lifestyle and nutrition in managing Parkinson’s disease Integrative Approach to Parkinson’s Focus on nutrition, labs and lifestyle By Cristal Salcido, ND Continued on page 11
. www.DesertHealthNews.com July/August 2025 Natural Options The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 10 w ww w. Gwa. lgi laelei lceeencteenr .toerrg. o r g Donations can also be mailed to: P.O. Box 308 - Mecca, CA 92254 Your donation is 100% deductible. ID # 27-3133601 Food insecurity can cause poor school attendance and performance, lowered workplace productivity, and physical and mental health problems. At our weekly food distribution, Galilee Center hands out over 400 food boxes to working families who struggle to make ends meet. For Some, One Box of Groceries Can Make a World of Difference Donate today at GalileeCenter.org Your $50 donation will help feed a family of 4 for 4 days. Living with Jennifer Di Francesco Wellness We are all giving birth each moment. We manifest a new idea or inspiration with every breath. There is little we need to do for this creative act to move through us. We merely need to listen more to hear a deeper voice and respond accordingly. The creative act is constantly trying to express itself as we walk our unique life path. The ancient study of alchemy, defined as a power or process that changes something, offers lessons into this realm of transformation. It’s 12th century beginnings involved finding a chemical way to change base metals into gold. The philosophers of alchemy posed the deepest questions as to how all precious substances came into being. Their studies were the beginning of chemistry and the precursor to science and medicine as we know them today. From Plato to Aristotle, ancient thinkers transformed ideas by shaping the four elements of the earth (earth, fire, air and water) and other ingredients such as salt, lead, tin, rust and sulfur to find “the philosopher’s stone,” which they believed would grant immortality and cure all disease. Even though alchemy was initially formed to create precious findings, the ancient study delved into philosophy. To create one’s personal elixir, one must utilize a symbolic personal holding vessel with ingredients which need to be nurtured to encourage this path to flourish. The path is not something we make; it is something that moves through our lives. If we reflect upon our life path, we may see manifestations that were the result of our efforts while other life developments reveal the soul expressing itself in mysterious ways. All the ingredients of our life yearn to come to light and express this embodied experience through our own personal creativity. We might feel at times that we are the least suitable person to create a work of art, a new idea or even be associated with the word creativity. But we all have creativity within, and expressing it keeps the channel open to greater creative power. In 1943 Agnes de Mille, a famous choreographer, was sitting with a well-known dancer by the name of Martha Graham at a time of feeling uninspired. Martha reassured Agnes, “There is a vitality—a life force, a quickening—that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and be lost. The world will not have it.” Martha urged Agnes to keep the channel open to her creative force. She expressed to Agnes that it did not even require that she believe in her herself. She merely needed to keep the channel open to potential. In ancient alchemy, Earth’s ingredients were placed inside a vessel with a little piece of the mystical. This ancient practice from the sages of past can teach us to welcome the current of creativity, and allow it to manifest and express itself. Our vital life force is destined to shine. We simply need to keep the channel open. Jennifer Di Francesco is a wellness explorer and desert adventurist and can be reached at www.coachellabellaboho.com. Keeping the Creativity Channel Open Thank You! LA QUINTA 79050 Highway 111 at Adams Street INDIAN WELLS 74895 Highway 111 at Cook Street PALM SPRINGS 5200 E. Ramon Road at Gene Autry Trail SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET Desert Health is proud to be featured in Sprouts Farmers Market. Stop by and pick up your copy today!
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