Wellspring Issue #107

JANUARY 2025 // TEVES 5785 // ISSUE 107

In a Golden Puppet Cage Well Answered

by Vichna Belsky, BS, CLC

Support for Moms of Babies Born with Cleft Lips/ Palates

US $9.99 // CALIFORNIA $12.50 CANADA $13.00 // UK £9.00 // ISRAEL ₪36.0

LET’S CLEAR THE AIR

Workout at Work

By Chaya Tziry Retter, RDN, BS, CPT

Fruity Flavors Delectable Tu B'Shevat Desserts

The Problem With Doctors Rabbi YY Rubinstein Expounds

Fruitful Home Hacks Seasonal Stumpers

Out with the old,

In with the State-of-the-art

Since 1998, we’ve been the heart of Flatbush, setting the bar high and carrying the torch of responsibility with pride.

Our new location, bursting with expanded services, is designed to pamper you with the exceptional care you deserve.

The ‘Aha’va effect.

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SEE THE CITY FROM AFAR EVERY SPECIALIST’S RIGHT HERE! PRIMARY CARE A specialized team, including Dr. Sharon Kheradnam, MD, Dr. Barry Dublin, MD, Dr. Adina Mezrahi, DNP, Dr. Tziporah (Carol) Clapman, FNP-C, brings decades of experience across diverse clinical settings and is renowned for their expertise in their respective fields

NEPHROLOGY

PEDIATRIC

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Chaya Kessler, PNP, is a well-known highly dedicated pediatrician with years of experience working with the Heimish community

Dr. Anush Vasikaran, MD, a highly experienced and respected specialist, has nearly a decade of experience working with the renowned Dr. Rabin Rahmani

OB/GYN A distinguished team led by renowned physicians—Dr. Michael Abrahams, MD, Dr. Andrew Scheinfeld, MD, Dr. Francine Guzman, MD—alongside a dedicated group of midwives and certified PAs, including Linda Gaglioti, CNM, Nichole Virag, CNM, Naomi Schwartz, CNM, Aviva Salomon, RPA-C, Mahboubeh (Miriam) Zafarmehr, RPA-C, delivers exceptional care, decades of experience, and world-class service to the community.

CARDIOLOGY Dr. Naftoli Neuburger, MD, a highly sought-after specialist with 48 years of experience, currently serves as the Hatzalah Medical Director in Cardiology

OPTOMETRY Dr. Ha-Eun Chung, OD, and Dr. Nabeel Chaudary, OD, offer extensive experience in expert eye care, including exams, contact lenses, retina consultations, and managing ocular conditions

Dr. Edwin Cohen Azarkian, MD, an expert in internal medicine and nephrology, with 14 years of experience

DERMATOLOGY Hamid Bamshad, RPA-C, and Nakhon Leora, RPA-C, are both well-recognized in the Boro Park community, bringing several decades of expertise in dermatology

PODIATRY Dr. Diana Castro, DPM, brings 26 years of experience working in our community, while Dr. Glenn Donovan, DPM, has 42 years of experience performing procedures in surgical settings

PHYSICAL THERAPY Dr. Melody Bautista, DPT, and Dr. Paul Asoro, PT, are well-known in the Boro Park community and bring many years of experience and expertise

PAIN MANAGEMENT UROLOGY Dr. Sunshine Robert, MD, is board-certified since 1985, and comes highly recommended by Boro Park rabbanim with extensive experience in the medical field

ENDOCRINOLOGY Dr. James Warshaw, MD, is a world-renowned specialist at Cornell Hospital, board-certified, and brings 29 years of experience

RADIOLOGY Stay tuned for our cutting-edge radiology services, featuring state-of-the-art technology and world-class technicians

Dr. Louis Kiwala, PA-C, AP, L.Ac., D.N.B.A.O., is a board-certified specialist with 20 years of experience in pain management treating thousands of patients

FAST TRACK Dr. Binyamin Hillel, RPA-C, and Dr. Stuart Goldwasser, PA, bring a wealth of expertise and many years of experience in managing and treating a broad spectrum of medical conditions with dedication and care

WELLSPRING / TEVES 5785

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WELLSPRING MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025 | TEVES 5785

| ISSUE #107

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LET’S CLEAR THE AIR

By Ita Yankovitch Tu B’Shevat reminds us that the Borei Olam created the whole world, including the trees and plants, for our benefit. Itta Yankovitz brings this concept home, expounding on how plants serve many fascinating functions, from beautifying our surroundings to cleaning the very air we breathe.

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CUP OF TEA With Libby Solomon MS-SLP

By Devorah Levitz When stepping into unfamiliar territory, it’s helpful and healing to have a hand to hold. This month, Devorah Levitz speaks to speech therapist and cleft lip/palate advocate Libby Solomon, who provides rich insights, support, and a wealth of experience for mothers on this journey.

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THE PHANTOM PAIN

By Mattie Steinberg The gallbladder was gone, but the pain wouldn’t leave. There’s a cautionary tale in this medical saga. Be informed, trust your gut, and act as your own advocate. There’s never a need to panic—but if something feels off, don’t allow your concerns to be dismissed.

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WELLSPRING / JANUARY 2025

WELLSPRING EXTENDS OUR WARMEST MAZEL TOV WISHES TO

TZIRI HERSHKOVITZ UPON THE ENGAGEMENT OF HER SON

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WELLSPRING MAGAZINE JANUARY 2025 | TEVES 5785

| ISSUE #107

WELL INFORMED 12 Springboard 16 Spiritual Eating 18 Torah Wellspring 22 Health News

LIVING WELL

WELLBEING

30 Cover Feature

62 Hakol Beseder

38 Second Opinion

64 Seasonal Stumpers

40 Community

66 Well Answered

42 Fitness

68 Wallet Wellness

44 Cup of Tea

70 Mind and You

50 Medical Saga

EAT WELL

54 Gut Reaction

Editor In Chief Tziri Hershkovitz Deputy Editor Libby Silberman Feature Editors Vichna Belsky, Devorah Levitz Copy Editors Gitti Feldinger, Meira Lawrence

58 The Way Eye See It

98 Holistic

Nutrition Contributors Tanya Rosen, MS CAI CPT, Shani Taub, CDC

Fitness Advisory Board Syma Kranz, PFC, Esther Fried, PFC

WELLSPRING MAGAZINE

FAREWELL

Health Advisory Board Dr. Rachael Schindler, Laura Shammah, MS, RDN, Tamar Feldman, RDN, CDE, Bashy Halberstam, INHC, Shaindy Oberlander, INHC, Dr. Adina Mintz, PA-C Esti Asher, MS, RDN, LD

EDITORIAL

Health Advisory Board Dr. Chayala Englard, Chaya Tilla Brachfeld, RN

57 More or Less

Editorial Contributors Rabbi Yehoshua Belsky LMSW, Rabbi Eli Glaser, CNWC, CWMS, Rabbi Y.Y. Rubinstein, Baruch Niebloom, Rabbanit Orit Esther Riter

FOOD & CONTENT Food Editor Aviva Emek Recipe Creators Yossi & Malky Levine Food Styling Malky Levine

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BETTER VISION, BETTER BEHAVIOR. Our targeted vision therapy program is geared to enhance your child’s ability to relax, and in turn succeed in school.

• Children & Adults • Male & Female Providers

Joel H Warshowsky O.D., F.A.A.O., F.C.O.V.D. Pediatric Behavioral Optometrist Director of Vision Therapy

718.635.1673

If kids can’t see, they can’t sit still.

Liana Rivkin O.D., F.A.A.O. Pediatric/Adult Behavioral Optometrist Esther Gurell O.D. Pediatric/Adult Behavioral Optometrist Margery Robles Assistant to Vision Therapy Director

Try vision therapy and see the difference in your child.

Center For Advanced Vision Care

18 Heyward St. 718.260.4660

WELLSPRING / TEVES 5785

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WELLSPRING / JANUARY 2025

EDITOR'S NOTE

pose. In fact, while we may be blind to it initially, even the bitterest food can yield the sweetest end product.

In West Africa, there is an amazing little fruit known for its incredible, reality-altering effects on human taste buds. This sweet little berry goes by the fitting name of “miracle fruit,” and quite the miracle it is.

No matter what food graces your plate, once you’ve eaten the miracle berry, all the food you consume in the next hour or so, whether bitter, sour, or bland, will taste deliciously sweet.

Encountering this truly divine berry and recognizing our palates’ intricate functions, one can’t help contemplate the kindness of our Creator. Why else would we be given taste buds capable of discerning such specific flavors? Of all our senses, this particular ability seems superfluous and can be considered nothing short of a gift.

As we prepare to celebrate the variety of fruits on Tu B’Shevat, from the shivas haminim and our classic standbys to exotic hybrids, our taste buds take center stage. They water at the suggestion of passion fruit and pucker at the thought of lemons.

But lemons, too, have their pur-

I was fascinated to discover that lemons, among other fruits, can be turned into unique and surprisingly delicious wines. The process isn’t as complicated as it is lengthy, but with a bit of juicing, boiling, and a lot of waiting, the end result is sweet and rich.

Unlike grape wine, where the juice of the fruit is considered of a higher caliber—a fact recognized by the upgraded berachah of ha’gafen— the berachah over the juice of any other fruit is downgraded to a shehakol. But while the status of the bright colored citrus may have been degraded, the flavor of the lemon is said to have been greatly enhanced.

There’s another bitter “fruit” that yields the richest and sweetest results—the cacao bean. While most would not readily equate the cacao bean with the fruits in our Tu B’Shevat spread, this bitter fruit does grow within the pods of the cacao tree. It then requires harvesting, fermenting, and a lengthy meticulous process before we get to savor the delectable delight we know as chocolate. This intricate transformation, from bitter bean to sweet delight, is a testament to beautiful and brilliant elements

embedded in the Borei Olam’s creations.

Both lemon wine and chocolate are divine delights in spite of their humble roots and bring home a fascinating point: The initial flavor is rarely the final one. It often takes work, and perhaps some of it is unpleasantly bitter, but that experience shapes and refines us.

And if done right, the end product is pleasantly sweet.

On Tu B’Shevat, as we marvel at what little seeds can sprout into, we give thanks for the awesome colors and flavors the earth puts forth.

Law of nature aside, Hashem is the only One Who can create something out of nothing. Everything out of nothing.

It’s all miraculous, much the way all of life is miraculous. Every person, tree, sapling, and berry is a precious and protected Divine Design. And lest we forget, there’s a little miracle berry that reminds us that everything can taste sweet.

As it turns out, we don’t need to travel to West Africa, nor even make a ha’eitz to experience this miraculous phenomenon. Girded with emunah and recognition that whatever we encounter was custom-designed for us by our Loving Father, every experience can taste downright delightful.

tz i v o k h s r e H i r i Tz

tziri@wellspringmagazine.com

WELLSPRING / TEVES 5785

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SPRINGBOARD

Temporary Relief Is Still Relief Issue #106: Skin Deep Thank you for the story on pemphigus vulgaris. I want to thank the protagonist for her courage in sharing her story and reliving her experience.

It gives chizuk to other people going through this ordeal. Being such a rare disease, it can be lonely and isolating, and seeing the story in print makes us feel seen and understood.

Additionally, patients too often suffer for months as they run from doctor to doctor in search of a diagnosis. When patients have the knowledge, they can insist on getting the biopsy to test for pemphigus and thereby finally get the diagnosis and help they need.

I’d like to share my own perspective on this journey. In “Skin Deep”, the woman seemed to imply that prednisone is not advisable and one should immediately go the Rutoxin (rituximab) route. In my opinion, those suffering from pemphigus should not so quickly dismiss prednisone/steroids.

Rituximab takes approximately three months to kick in. In the interim, the

patient is in excruciating pain. Prednisone or other steroids can be a lifesaver during that time, alleviating the bulk of the pain.

My doctor also felt that even while on rituximab, the steroids were necessary to get me symptom-free and to arrest the disease’s progression—making it beneficial in the long run.

If anyone would like to initiate a support group for pemphigus/pemphigoid, please reach out to me through Wellspring.

Name Withheld

Emotionally Safe Issue #105: Winter Wellness I must take a moment to react to two incredible articles published in issues 105 and 106. First, some reflections on hygge. This article was enlightening, creative, and novel.

The concepts are so very distant— even despised—by Americans today, who honor the hustle of a hectic, forever-doing lifestyle. We need more

of this kind of material out there to combat the unhealthy rushing we see all over. Thank you, Tziri, for holding emotional health as the gold standard of accomplishment in an environment that honors everything but that.

The concept of hygge struck home.

As an emotional wellness coach and Creative Journal Expressive Arts instructor, I’ve come to learn that there is one thing we all seek. No matter a person’s level of crisis, stage, age, history, trauma experiences, family situation, every human being seeks safety. We seek the ability to feel full, whole, and comfortable in our own skin—safe. Take anxiety, for instance, which plagues our generation. The very physical symptoms of this condition cause a person to feel scared, out of their body, threatened, lost, floating, and hurt. The anxious person feels entirely unsafe. Recovering from anxiety means finding safety within, once again.

Last year there was a big splash about “authenticity” being the word of the year. What is this authenticity that people are so busy with? It’s the ability to be true to ourselves and thereby feel safe in our own skin. Look around, listen to people talk; it’s all the same repeated cry for safety. The reason why Tziri’s beautiful article on hygge struck me as so incredibly rich was because it

GET IN TOUCH Wellspring invites readers to submit letters and comments via email to info@wellspringmagazine.com. We reserve the right to edit all submissions and will withhold your name upon request. We will honor requests for anonymity, but we cannot consider letters that arrive without contact information.

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WELLSPRING / JANUARY 2025

Any health information, advice, or suggestions published here are the opinion of the letter writer and are not independently investigated, endorsed, or validated by Wellspring. Always seek the advice of a qualified health professional or medical practitioner regarding any medical advice, condition, or treatment.

SPRINGBOARD

Quick Question Question: I have been to the doctor twice this week. I am coughing and have been having a fever on and off. The doctor tested me for flu, COVID, RSV, etc., and all came back negative. I am feeling horribly sick—weak, tired, and unable to do much. Do you have any suggestions?

Also, is there something I can do to prevent my kids from catching this bug?

Answer: You are obviously under the weather, but not all viruses can be tested for. This is where you can really benefit from taking supplements and using essential oils. My recommendation would be to take some vitamin C 1000 and Maxi Biotic, three times a day, as well as vitamin D (with food) and elderberry. I would also recommend you drink echinacea tea or cold and flu tea every three hours, adding honey and lemon.

You can also massage your chest with oils that contain eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree.

For your cough you can use the following homeopathic remedies: bryonia, aconite, and eupatorium perf. Two sprays under the tongue twice a day should be helpful.

For prevention for others in the family, you can give them vitamins C and D, use thieves oil as an immune boost (massage soles of feet morning and night), and a combination homeopathic remedy called Flu Remedy, which contains oscillococcinum, bryonia, and other antiviral remedies.

Kashrus Note: Oscillococcinum needs a hechsher. The one manufactured by Boiron is not kosher; the company verified that it is made from duck liver.

Miriam Schweid, Health Consultant

brought out the physical characteristics of the safety we all seek. The mug of hot chocolate, fuzzy blanket, dim lighting, family moments, and heartfelt singing are all physical demonstrations of safety. These demonstrations whisper: You’re safe here, you belong, you are home. In fact, in the first paragraph, Tziri writes, “The grounds were covered in snow, but I was safe and secure indoors.” That’s hygge: safety.

Offering our children (and ourselves) physical and emotional safety is the biggest gift we can give in 2025—and forever. And it’s not by telling them (or ourselves) that they are safe. It’s by giving them the sensual experience—like hygge—of safety, so their senses can experience it in real life and bank on it during hard times. In essence, when a per-

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WELLSPRING / JANUARY 2025

son starts to feel safe within, that’s when their bitachon is strengthened as well. It is then that they can start to truly relax in Hashem’s embrace.

So hygge—safety—runs deeper than we can ever imagine. Thank you, Tziri, for bringing out this brilliant idea.

I must add how much I appreciated the ingenuity of your gift-giving guide. I loved the concept of gifting our children with what they truly desire. And, if we look underneath the gift-giving options you so eloquently presented, what are you really gifting the child with? You are giving them safety. You are telling them: I choose you, I like you, I want you, you are safe to be you.

Thank you Tziri and the Wellspring team for being pioneers in teaching and disseminating such valuable

information about emotional health and wellness. Wishing you much continued siyata di’Shmaya and success.

With gratitude,

Pnina Schoss, CJEAI® Emotional Wellness Coach

You Can Help Issue #106: Well Answered The Well Asked question stirred up childhood memories, and the answer triggered me intensely. I strongly believe that even without knowing all the

details or having the ability to stop the situation, people could still make it easier for kids going through a horrendous experience at home.

When I was going through difficulties in my childhood, most of my teachers didn’t know the details.

I was experiencing a physical and emotional roller coaster. I was not the one being physically abused, but with all that was happening, I did not feel safe in my own home. Even more, I was an emotional wreck, and I felt so ignored, scared, unwanted, and alone.

I had two wonderful teachers that year, neither of whom had an inkling of what was happening in my home. At one point, a well-meaning family member did enlighten them about some facts, but the details remained murky and it was not clear what—if any— action they could take.

Yet, even without knowing precisely what was happening—the chaos taking place in my home and in my head—both of those teachers went out of their way to make me feel seen, accepted, and loved.

During a time in which I felt so ignored, they made me feel like I mattered. It is impossible for me to accurately express just how much their kindness meant to me. They gave me back hope and the will to live.

They had no idea about the extent of the situation, and even had they known, they would have been unable to fix it. But even so, they did fix a large part of my childhood that year. I looked forward to going to school. I finally had somewhere I felt safe.

So, going back to the question, it is not quite accurate to say that the neighbors were simply unaware or unable to assist. Having been a child in a similar situation, I have to insist: They could have done more. Something. Anything would have been better than nothing. They may not have known they had the power to make a difference, but they did.

I agree with Vichna’s insistence that it is important to forgive and to recognize that those old neighbors might have felt unable to help. But I believe they could have—they just didn’t take the opportunity.

My hope is if you are reading this and are aware of a situation you feel powerless to help or stop, you will nevertheless not turn your back. You too can make a difference in the life of a suffering child.

Mrs. M. Monsey, New York

WELLSPRING / TEVES 5785

15

SPIRITUAL EATING

By Rabbi Eli Glaser, CNWC, CWMS

Greatness from Within

Parashas Va’eira begins with a curious conversation between Hashem and Moshe. Hashem reassures Moshe that the redemption is at hand, but Moshe questions his ability to communicate effectively with Pharaoh.

They go back and forth until Moshe finally agrees.

He develops into a leader who directs the Jewish People out of Egypt, through the Red Sea, and to a national revelation at Har Sinai. Before his death, Moshe achieves the greatest heights of spiritual leadership, a level that is never matched during the subsequent three millennia of Jewish nationhood.

What is peculiar, however, is that during this discussion, 15 verses of paternal lineage are interjected in the middle of the dialogue. These seem quite out of place. Why in the world would the Torah temporarily divert from the discourse between Hashem and Moshe to paint a family tree?

One approach to understanding this, based on Rav Samson Raphael Hirsch, is to recognize Judaism’s definition of a leader. In many societies, a leader is a supernatural figure residing high above the rest of the nation. He is not a person as much as a godlike figure, separate and aloof.

In Judaism, the opposite is true. A

leader is a normal person who reaches exceptional heights, assuming responsibility for a nation in which he is intimately involved. He is not separate from society; he is an integral part of it, with parents, siblings, children, and all the accompanying joys and challenges. He too is another beautiful leaf on a magnificent and deeply rooted tree.

The Torah intentionally lists Moshe’s ancestry smack in the middle of his assuming the mantle of leadership to teach us that he is just as much flesh and blood as anyone else. He too can have insecurities—“Behold, the Children of Israel have not listened to me, so how will Pharaoh listen to me? And I have sealed lips” (Shemos 6:12)—but he can also accept encouragement and walk through his fears to achieve greatness.

None of us are born as exceptional, refined, and complete people. Everyone, without exception, has to invest time, effort, and a lot of prayer to achieve any genuine goal in life. This is especially true when it comes to changing unhealthy behaviors.

One of the biggest self-imposed stumbling blocks is the rationalization that “it’s just too hard for me; I can’t change. I don’t have the willingness to stick with it like other people do. I love sweets too much to give them up.”

I have the merit of providing Soveya health and wellness seminars to communities throughout the country, speaking before thousands of people.

When I mention that during my own continuing journey toward a healthier lifestyle, I haven’t indulged in a piece of chocolate cake in more than two decades, gasps of wonderment and awe abound amid the audience. I quickly grab the biggest pin I can find and burst their bubble of amazement, pleading that I am no stronger, wiser, or self-controlled than anyone in the room.

Anyone, absolutely anyone, can make whatever critically important adjustments are necessary to improve their health and wellbeing. None of us are born with any added advantage.

We may have our unique challenges, but honesty, consistency, and a 100 percent commitment to change are universal ingredients in the recipe of success that is inherent in all of us.

If we are truly open to encouragement and suggestions—and willing to walk through our fears no matter how difficult we may perceive them to be— we too can reach the goal of health and wellbeing, both physically and spiritually. Our aim is not to summit the heights of Moshe Rabbeinu, but rather to nourish and cultivate our own innate and unique potential.

Rabbi Eli Glaser, CNWC, CWMS, is the founder and director of Soveya and the author of the best-selling book Enough Is Enough—How the Soveya Solution Is Revolutionizing the Diet and Weight-Loss World, available on Amazon and at Barnes & Nobles and Judaica Plaza in Lakewood. He has worked with thousands of clients around the world and has maintained a 130-pound weight loss for the last 19 years. For more information about Soveya’s programs call 732-578-8800, email info@soveya.com, or visit www.soveya.com.

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WELLSPRING / JANUARY 2025

led by: Dr. Binyamin Hillel, RPA-C

Dr. Stuart Goldwasser, RPA-C

Urgency is no longer an excuse Say goodbye to bandaid care, and hello to getting it right at the hands of professional doctors.

FastTrack is revolutionizing after-hour healthcare for local families like yours.

TORAH WELLSPRING

By Rabbi YY Rubinstein

The Problem with Doctors

I suspect that this column might be a teeny bit controversial, although that is certainly not my intention.

Perhaps I should start by explaining my choice of title.

Many years ago, I met someone who told me that their grandmother often used to say, “The problem is that doctors think they’re gods…and people forget that G-d’s a doctor.”

Throughout my personal life, when my sons or daughters suffered from the inevitable childhood illnesses like sore throats, flu, or measles, I had the average exposure to doctors. That exposure became far more frequent during the five years of my late wife’s battle with cancer.

Professionally, that changed when I became the Jewish chaplain to two of the biggest and most famous medical schools in England: Manchester and Liverpool. I met lots of doctors or trainee doctors as my job required me to counsel and help them.

So, with all that experience and interaction with physicians, I would have to disagree with that wise old Jewish bubby, or at least tweak and qualify her statement to “Some doctors think they’re gods.”

Of course, that doesn’t make the old joke of the Jewish couple who take an advert in The

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WELLSPRING / JANUARY 2025

Jewish Press that reads, “Mr. and Mrs. Cohen are proud to announce the birth of their son…Dr. Cohen!” any less funny or true.

In Germany in the 1930s, more than half of all doctors enthusiastically joined the Nazi party. More doctors chose to become paid-up Nazis than people from any other profession.

But the focus of this article is on doctors, not their proud Jewish parents who might indeed see their MD offspring as being far above other human beings.

In Holland today, the number one cause of death is officially “death by doctor.” In that country, which allows euthanasia— so-called “mercy killing”—two doctors’ signatures are required before an old or sick person’s life can be ended by lethal injection.

The procedure and practice of the policy by Dutch doctors has been rocked by repeated scandals and abuse. Mercy killings have often been less than merciful and their practitioners very far indeed from being “caring, kind, and wise.”

Almost none of the doctors I have met have any delusions of divinity. Most know that they are vulnerable and fallible human beings. Certainly, the hundreds of Jewish medical students I was responsible for over 25 years did. Many of them had very real issues, including social awkwardness, anxiety, trauma, depression, addiction, and all the rest that people outside the doors of medical facilities suffer from too.

Which is actually a pity. I think that when going to our doctors, most of us rather hope they do possess supernatural abilities.

We want them to be able to cure any ailment or condition that we or the people we love may have. We hope they are brilliant clinicians who are caring, kind, and wise.

As I mentioned before, the reality is that they have just as many flaws as the people they are trying to cure. Sometimes and in some places, they actually have many more.

The values of society become the values of medicine— and the people who practice it.

I could continue to list other countries, such as China— where doctors happily carry out policies of the state that Torah Jews would find simply appalling and horrific—but I hope you will take my word for it that in some places and some eras, doctors can behave more like devils than gods. The values of society become the values of medicine—and the people who practice it.

Today, society’s values are very far removed from those of Torah Jews and this is often reflected in its medical values.

That is a problem.

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TORAH WELLSPRING

When Avraham Avinu explained to Avimelech why he had pretended that Sarah was his sister, he stated simply, “Because there is no fear of Hashem in this place; consequently, they will kill me because of my wife.”

Avimelech claimed that he and his people were moral.

Avraham’s answer was that no matter how high a society believes its moral standards to be, without fear of Hashem, emes is replaced by sheker, chayim by maves, and kindness with killing.

Curing sick people is a mitzvah, “Ve’rapo yerape,” but the Torah also has requirements about the way in which people are cured. Ideally, the hashkafah and approach of the Torah has to permeate every aspect of a patient’s care from the beginning of a diagnosis to the final cure.

The more closely a doctor’s hashkafah resembles Avraham’s, the better the treatments and outcomes will be.

Twelve years ago, I wrote a book called The Little Book for Big Worries: Dealing with Serious Illness. It was based on my experiences dealing with the world of doctors. I am hugely humbled and grateful that the book has helped hundreds of people through their most difficult times.

It has chapters called “How to Make a Patient Feel Comfortable” and “Sharing News with Wisdom.” One chapter is called “Be Aware That Sometimes Doctors May Not Be Helping You.” Although most of the med-

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ical staff I dealt with were outstanding and sympathetic to how we needed things done as Orthodox Jews, not all of them were. Strategies for dealing with medical fashions or ideas that are contrary to our beliefs are an essential ingredient in beating illness and disease.

Doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals usually see things through the lens of the system and discipline within which they work and were trained.

Medical protocols speak at length about treating human beings with respect before and after death. Having been the rabbi to a quarter of a century’s worth of medical students, I know that there is often a large gap between what is supposed to happen and what does.

It may be the fashion not to resuscitate or offer ongoing treatment that they believe pointless, or to insist on an autopsy. You may receive sincere and passionate pleas for you to come around and view things their way.

...without fear of Hashem, emes is replaced by sheker, chayim by maves, and kindness with killing.

You may find yourself under great pressure at a time when your emotional resources are almost drained.

Often, though, there are ways to persuade doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals to see things differently—to see things our way—but you will need to access and recruit those in our communities who know how to go about getting them to do so.

When we or our loved ones face serious medical issues, we naturally have to seek out the very best expertise. We must put as much emphasis in seeking out the best daas Torah to guide us on what the hashkafah is regarding our illnesses and the treatment choices that we are being offered.

And if all that is important in the field of doctors who deal with our physical ailments, it is exponentially more so in the field of doctors who deal with our psychological issues. In that area, the clash between medical fashions and ideas and Torah becomes the norm more than the exception.

He answered his question by offering a jaw-dropping statistic. He estimated that 90 percent of psychology might simply be common sense!

But the remaining 10 percent is the worrying part. When a new discipline originates in the minds of people like the menuval Sigmund Freud and the anti-Semite Carl Jung, how could it not be?

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UK born, Rabbi YY Rubinstein learned in the famous Gateshead Yeshiva for ten years where he received semicha. He is an international speaker and the author of fourteen books. His latest, "Never Alone,” for teens and young adults who've lost a parent, arrived in bookstores this year.

1

To my mind, authentically qualified and licensed psychologists who have a good reputation and are sensitive and sympathetic to the needs of their religious patients can often fulfill a critical role. But in both spheres—whether illness of the body or the mind—daas Torah should be consulted and involved to make sure that treatments offered come from medical practitioners who have no problem with the fact…that G-d is a doctor.

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The Rambam writes that there are two kinds of doctor, one for the body and one for the soul (he was, of course, both). We believe that both kinds play a symbiotic role in making people well.

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It is ironic that the therapeutic solutions offered by modern psychology for the problems of our times often spring from the very beliefs and philosophies that introduced those problems into society in the first place.

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I expressed my skepticism at that statement, and the next day he emailed me an article from the British Psychological Society’s magazine by one of the UK’s leading psychologists, Tom Stafford, entitled “Isn’t It All Just Obvious?”

Before

He continued by adding, “It is very hard to locate or identify any novel fact or discovery that psychology has found that would not have been known without it.”

After

I am friendly with a brilliant young man who has just received his PhD in psychology from England’s Cambridge University. He astonished me by stating that “the claim that psychology is a science is not without controversy.”

HEALTH NEWS

HEALTH NEWS ROUNDUP

By Pnina Schoss

Brain Function Supplement: Cheap Yet Powerful What is good for a person’s aging gut may also be good for their aging brain. The first study of its kind has found that taking daily protein and prebiotic supplements can improve scores on memory tests in people over the age of sixty. The study done by researchers at King’s College London involved two cheap plant fiber prebiotics that are available over the counter in numerous nations around the world. Prebiotics are non-digestible consumables that help stimulate the gut microbes.

To test the effect of these supplements on the aging brain, the researchers enrolled 36 pairs of twins over the age of sixty. Each duo was randomly split so that one twin was assigned a daily prebiotic in a protein powder and the other was assigned a daily placebo in a protein powder. The twin who unknowingly took the prebiotic generally scored higher on a cognitive test three months later. Furthermore, the daily fiber supplements were linked to slight changes in the gut microbiome between twins. The beneficial bacteria Bifidobacterium, for instance, were more plentiful in twins taking the prebiotics.

“This holds huge promise for enhancing brain health and memory in our aging population,” said Mary Ni Lochlainn, a geriatric medicine researcher at King’s College London, when the findings were published. “Unlocking the secrets of the gut-brain axis could offer new approaches for living more healthily for longer.”

Common Thyroid Medicine Linked to Bone Loss Levothyroxine, the second most commonly prescribed medication among older adults in the US, may be associated with bone loss, according to a recent study. Levothyroxine, marketed under multiple brand names, including Synthroid, is a synthetic version of a hormone called thyroxine and is commonly prescribed to treat the condition hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid. In people with hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroxine on its own, often resulting in fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, and other symptoms. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to serious and potentially fatal complications. Approximately 23 million Americans—about 7 percent of the US population—take levothyroxine daily. The study group included 81 levothyroxine users and 364 non-users. The results showed that levothyroxine use was associated with greater loss of total body bone mass and bone density. The study suggests that even when following current guidelines, levothyroxine use appears to be associated with greater bone loss in older adults.

Jennifer Mammen, MD, PhD, co-senior author and associate professor of endocrinology at Johns Hopkins, advises that adults taking levothyroxine should discuss their treatment with their healthcare provider and regularly monitor their thyroid function tests. “A risk-benefit assessment should be conducted, weighing the strength of the indications for treatment against the potential adverse effects of levothyroxine,” she said.

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WELLSPRING / JANUARY 2025

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HEALTH NEWS

HEALTH NEWS ROUNDUP

FDA Bans Red Dye Number 3: What about the others?

The FDA announced a ban of food dye Red No. 3 this month, saying that this food additive has been found to cause cancer. The ban comes more than three decades after researchers discovered its link to cancer in rodents and to worsened attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder and other behavioral symptoms.

Back in 1980, when research first determined the carcinogenic properties of this food dye, the FDA banned its use in cosmetic products, but somehow, the prohibition didn’t extend to food. According to the new mandate, legally, food companies still have a couple of years to eliminate this dye from their products.

Is There Something in the Water?

For four decades, scientists have struggled to identify a mysterious “phantom” chemical found in drinking water across the US. All they knew was that it was a by-product of the disinfectant chloramine, which is commonly used in water treatment. Now, the mystery appears to have been solved. As detailed in a study published in Science, the culprit is what the authors have identified as chloronitramide anion. But the implications of the discovery are unclear. While it seems similar to other waterborne chemicals that are regulated for being toxic, scientists don’t yet know if chloronitramide anion is harmful for humans to consume and are thus urging immediate further research into the by-product.

“We need to investigate it. We don’t know the toxicity,” said study lead author Julian Fairey, an associate professor at the University of Arkansas. “This work was forty years in the making in terms of trying to identify the compound, and now that we have identified it, we can delve into how toxic is this thing.”

Contaminants are unavoidable in drinking water, and when kept at low enough concentrations, they are generally harmless. But as with many chemical disinfectants, they create by-products that themselves have to be carefully managed.

These form when the chloramines interact with organic substances in the water, like harmful germs, and over time, they can decompose to form yet more kinds of by-products. The newly identified chloronitramide anion is one of these decomposition off-shoots.

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This synthetic dye is found in many foods, from fruit cocktail to flavored milk, cake mixes to candy and, surprisingly, in children’s medicines. It’s easy to identify Red No. 3; if a food is bright, cherry red, that’s the first clue the product may contain Red No. 3. Always check the food label; the FDA requires that food manufacturers declare Red No. 3 and other synthetic colors on the ingredient label.

Given restrictions in many parts of the globe (since 1994), and new laws in California (October 2023) that aim to restrict the use of Red No. 3 and other synthetic food dyes, some companies have already been exploring alternatives. And therein stands the most baffling issue: Why hasn’t the FDA banned Red No. 40, and so many other dyes that carry similar harmful properties? Consumer groups worry that some food companies may just replace Red No. 3 with Red No. 40, which has also been linked to behavioral issues in kids and cancer. This leaves them wondering whether the FDA is more concerned about the manufacturer or consumer.

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HEALTH NEWS

HEALTH NEWS ROUNDUP

Black Gold: The Vitamin-Packed Fruit Berries from the genus Aronia, often called black chokeberry, are native to North America and have gained attention for their amazing healing powers. The natural chemicals found in this fruit have been associated with benefits that go beyond ordinary nutrition, such as calming the body’s inflammatory processes.

Scientists recently examined whether aronia juice might protect against diet-induced challenges linked to the gut microbiome. Early investigations hint that this berry might shift certain bacterial communities and reduce the strain triggered by high-fat diets. These shifts suggest that eating or drinking aronia-based products might assist in keeping the digestive system more balanced during periods of dietary stress. Other research indicates that aronia is not just a source of antioxidants; it may also be linked with healthier glucose levels and heart function.

On a broader level, the information discovered about this fruit points to how small dietary changes, like adding a berry drink, can create ripple effects that protect overall wellness. Aronia’s tart flavor might not suit everyone right away. In grocery stores, it often appears in juice blends, concentrates, or dried forms. Because it’s easy to mix with other fruits, people can add it to smoothies or desserts without changing their routines too drastically. Fresh interest in aronia keeps growing, and the findings so far hint at a fruitful path for future study.

Miracle Moringa A miracle supplement called moringa oleifera is gaining attention, thanks to its long list of potential benefits. “Moringa is an interesting plant known as the miracle tree due to its impressive nutritional composition,” nutritional therapist Kelly Hopley said. “Providing seven times the vitamin C of oranges, rich in minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium too—we can see how it gets its mysterious moniker.”

Used in herbal medicine for many years, the moringa tree contains nearly thirty vitamins and more than forty antioxidants, as well as minerals and other phytonutrients. It is native to Northern India and East Africa. “The leaves, pods, seeds and bark are all used in herbal medicine in various forms,” nutritional therapist Anna Earl said. The leaves in particular have a high nutrient content; they are good sources of vitamins B2 and 6, vitamin C, iron, and magnesium. They are commonly taken in dried powder form, such as capsules.

Moringa is also associated with balancing blood sugar levels, lowering blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, helping to tackle inflammation, helping to regulate the gut, supporting the immune system, protecting the brain—and more. As with many herbs, concrete scientific data from human trials to assess the health properties is difficult to obtain, as they are so difficult to fund. Leaves from a tree are tricky to patent, so it’s not often financially beneficial to a drug company to do so.

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HEALTH NEWS

HEALTH NEWS ROUNDUP

Watch Out for Cannabis Cannabis use has been linked to cellular damage that significantly increases the risk of developing highly cancerous tumors, according to a new study in the scientific journal Addiction Biology. The study, conducted by The University of Western Australia, identifies cannabis as a “genotoxic” substance, meaning it harms the genetic material within cells. This damage can result in DNA mutations, accelerated aging, and cancer. Alarmingly, the study suggests that this genetic damage could be passed onto future generations, making the effects of cannabis use potentially generational. These study’s findings reveal that the cellular damage caused by cannabis can drive chromosomal damage, leading to higher rates of cancer, premature aging, and birth defects.

Together, this research underscores the far-reaching consequences of cannabis-induced genetic harm. Co-author of the study Dr. Stuart Reece comments, “The link we’ve described between cannabis use and genotoxicity has far-reaching consequences. This new research shows how genetic damage from cannabis use can be passed down the generations. This should reframe the discussion surrounding cannabis legalization from a personal choice to one that potentially involves multiple subsequent generations.”

Dementia or a Misdiagnosed Treatable Condition?

Dementia is taking the elderly population by storm. As the global population ages, more people face frightening cognitive decline. There are over ten million new cases of dementia globally each year. But a study published this year suggests up to 13 percent of people diagnosed with dementia in the US may have a misdiagnosis and are instead left struggling with a condition that can be treated. “Healthcare providers must be made aware of this potential overlap between dementia and hepatic encephalopathy, which is treatable,” said Virginia Commonwealth University hepatologist Jasmohan Bajaj.

Hepatic encephalopathy—cognitive impairment caused by liver failure—impacts more than 40 percent of patients with advanced liver disease (cirrhosis). The brain impairments it causes are hard to distinguish from dementia. Our livers regulate the levels of most chemicals in our bodies, from filtering them from the blood to aiding with digestion. Aside from the well-known liver-damaging effects of alcohol, other risks to the liver include the hepatitis virus, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes, stress, and aging. But if caught early enough and with the right treatment, damage to our livers can be reversed. Much of this can be mitigated through changes in diet and behavior, and there are even more potential drug treatments on the horizon as well. It is crucial that all practitioners treating dementia check for liver failure first.

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WELLSPRING / JANUARY 2025

Pretty.

Unbelievable.

Heart.Works

When you serve Beleaves Greenhouse-Grown Breaded Broccoli and Cauliflower, your family won’t believe it’s only half homemade. Perfectly crispy, delightfully fresh, and irresistibly golden, this daily, Shabbos, or Yom Tov crowdpleaser takes just 20 minutes to bake or fry—from fresh-frozen to gleaming perfection. It’s as pretty as it is unbelievable.

WELLSPRING / TEVES 5785

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COVER FEATURE

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WELLSPRING / JANUARY 2025

LET’S CLEAR THE AIR BOTANICAL BENEFITS FOR BODY AND SOUL

Summer seems so far away from this wintry tundra.

Nature is in deep hibernation as we are surrounded by bare, lifeless trees, brown, discolored bushes, and dry grass. It may seem like an odd time to discuss the topic of plants while we’re busy digging our cars out of three inches of frozen snow and sleet. But despite the wintry bluster outside, in two weeks we mark Tu B’Shevat, the new year for trees—and by extension—a celebration of all foliage.

Celebrating plants and flowers may feel out of place in deep winter, but even while the soil is covered in snow and the trees are bare, processes of growth and rebirth are quietly taking place. The Torah often likens Man to a tree, and the lessons of hidden potential, the power of roots, and our ability to blossom are particularly resonant at this time.

By Ita Yankovich

WELLSPRING / TEVES 5785

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COVER FEATURE

Hashem adorns this world with plants for our benefit— both for us to enjoy aesthetically and to heal us holistically.

Most of us city-dwellers do not get opportunities to appreciate the beauty of Hashem’s natural tapestry on a daily basis. One way we can enjoy a slight glimpse is by surrounding ourselves with common houseplants, which also provide us with a multitude of health benefits.

Houseplants are affordable decor, enhancing the look of any room while improving everything from breathing, colds, and coughs to stress and even concentration. So go ahead, place a plant on your nearest windowsill and breathe in some good health.

Medicine in a Pot Forget costly air filtration devices; the main benefit of owning houseplants is that they improve air quality via the process of photosynthesis, in which they take in carbon dioxide and release fresh oxygen. They have also been shown to remove toxicants, including formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, chloroform, benzene, xylene, octane, trichloroethylene, and ammonia.

These are emitted by common household cleaning products, paint, foam insulation, electrical appliances, and synthetic, man-made materials, including plastic floor and wall coverings, chipboards, ceiling tiles and carpets.

Poor indoor air quality has been linked to health problems, especially in children.

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“Asthma has reached epidemic proportions among multiple age groups and is considered the most common chronic disease in urban dwelling children,” says Dr. Luz Claudio, a tenured associate professor in Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York.

The cleansing process performed by plants doesn’t take long either. A NASA study on plant-mediated air quality claims that houseplants can eliminate 87 percent of air toxins in just 24 hours (see sidebar).

Dry air can cause infection, fatigue, coughs, sore throats, and sinusitis, but houseplants combat this by decreasing dust and injecting moisture back into the air. Of course, a humidifier is best for those with major issues, but the natural boost from plants can be enough to help alleviate symptoms.

Dr. Claudio warns that although air cleansers with HEPA filters have been shown to improve symptoms of asthma, they do not reduce levels of all indoor air pollutants, and “some types can actually aggravate the problem by raising indoor concentrations of ozone above the safety levels established by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports.”

Mold is another toxin frequently found in homes, usually without the inhabitants’ awareness until symptoms like dizziness, headaches, congestion, or coughs appear.

Basements and bathrooms are most susceptible due to the moisture in the air that can-

So go ahead, place a plant on your nearest windowsill and breathe in some good health.

not properly ventilate because of constrained space. Placing a peace lily or Boston fern in the bathroom, especially if it is small and windowless, can help prevent some mold buildup since these plants have been reported to reduce microscopic mold spores in the air by 60 percent.

Next time you engage in the mitzvah of bikur cholim, bring a plant along. Plants have been known to accelerate the healing process in hospital patients. According to a study

by Richard H. Mattson and Seong-Hyun Park in HortTechnology, patients in wards with plants and flowers had significantly shorter hospitalizations, fewer intakes of analgesics, lower ratings of pain,

anxiety, and fatigue, and more positive feelings. Patients placed in rooms facing a green view proved to recover faster than those without windows or those facing bare walls.

Gardening and cultivating plants have been shown to be an ideal hobby for retirees as doing so alleviates everyday stress, and the task of caring for another organism provides a sense of purpose.

A Plant a Day Makes the Workers Stay Plants are not just beneficial for the home; scientific evidence shows that they improve employee health, morale, and concentration, so more and more workplaces

are throwing out their artificial, plastic plants and replacing them with the real thing.

Employers might want to consider purchasing some plants if they want their workers to take less sick days. According to a study from the Agricultural University of Norway, people with table and floor-standing plants reported 37 percent less coughing and 25 percent less hoarseness after three months than when they left their offices plant-free.

It’s hard to feel inspired working in a dreary, gray cubicle but placing African violets on your desk might just be the pick-me-up workers need for that mid-afternoon slump.

The purple flower has been scientifically proven to enhance

Forget the apple on the teacher’s desk; a plant will yield better results.

brain activity and trigger the release of small amounts of adrenaline, enhancing energy levels and organically boosting productivity. Researchers also noticed that the flower’s purple pigment stimulates the natural production of endorphins, subsequently reducing stress. Aside from African violets, spider plants and philodendron are best for office spaces due to their ability to survive in low light.

Cactus in the Class Forget the apple on the teacher’s desk; a plant will yield better results. A study conducted on sixth and seventh graders in Australia showed that spelling, math, and science grades increased when there were

WELLSPRING / TEVES 5785

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COVER FEATURE

plants in the classroom and even the behavior of students with ADD showed improvement. The presence of plants also had an impact on attendance, with a reduction of sick leave in elementary-aged students.

These results were duplicated in other studies that indicated plants in the classroom improve concentration, helping students absorb information and stay focused. The calming presence of plants can also helped students feel less stressed and mentally fatigued. For teachers still on the fence, note this: Research suggests that plants can increase productivity by up to 47 percent.

Putting aside all the physical benefits, plants are also great teaching tools for kids as they train them to be responsible caregivers and have compassion for living things that are dependent on them. Plants can also conceptualize the idea of making berachos and appreciating the origins of our food, all while being in awe of Hashem’s beautiful designs.

The best plants for a classroom are cacti, snake plants, and ferns since they are very low-maintenance and hard to kill.

Seeds of Happiness Science is catching up with the old Chinese proverb, “One who plants a garden, plants happiness.” In today’s technological society, the most common way to appreciate the flora and fauna world is by visiting natural destinations and

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local botanical gardens. When we gaze at images of nature depicted in art and observe its intricate beauty, we feel at peace.

What is it about plants that makes us feel this way? Researcher Virginia Lohr, PhD, professor of horticulture at Washington State University, explains that humans are biologically wired to be around greenery since we have always lived close to plants and nature, and even as we’ve adapted to our urban environs, we still instinctively gravitate toward plants because they feel familiar. As Dr. Lohr concluded, perhaps “we are more at ease when we are near things that help us survive.”

Behavioral

research

con-

ducted at Rutgers University showed that the presence of flowers triggers happy emotions, heightens feelings of life satisfaction, and positively affects social behavior far beyond what is normally expected.

"Perhaps we are more at ease when we are near things that help us survive.”

Tu B’Shevat marks the official midpoint between fall and spring, and even though it may seem like we are in a wonderland of white, winter’s intensity is declining and nature’s rebirth cycle has officially begun. Under all that ice, snow, and hard soil, new life is being reactivated. In the meantime, gaze at the houseplants that sit on your windowsill and bask in the multitude of health benefits Hashem allows them to provide.

DID YOU KNOW? The first aspirin used as a pain reliever and fever reducer came from the tree bark of a willow tree.

NASA has a space garden on the International Space Station called Veggie.

Not all plants live off water and sunlight.

Some plants, such as the carnivorous Venus fly trap, actually enjoy a tasty, meaty treat.

Plants respect family. It has been shown that plants can recognize when a nearby plant is their “sibling,” and they will give them preferential treatment by competing less for valuable resources like root space and sun compared to when they are surrounded by non-related plants.

WELLSPRING / TEVES 5785

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COVER FEATURE

GREEN GOODNESS Optimal Plants for Home Use NASA research scientists have announced that the common indoor plant may provide a natural way of helping combat pollutants and contaminants in the air at home. In fact, NASA claims they are so efficient at absorbing toxins in the air that they grow these plants—and even gardens—in their orbiting space stations as part of the biological life support system.

Let’s highlight the best plants for improving air quality.

Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica) Bred for toughness, the rubber plant will tolerate dim light and cooler temperatures. In fact, rubber plants actually get scorched from direct sunlight. They are easy to grow and best at removing the chemical toxin formaldehyde.

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) An outstanding ornamental foliage plant for beginners and plant experts alike, the peace lily excels in the removal of alcohols, acetone, trichloroethylene, benzene, and formaldehyde. It also does best in indirect, medium-to-low sunlight.

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WELLSPRING / JANUARY 2025

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) One of the easiest houseplants to grow, the spider plant is a natural at absorbing carbon monoxide and formaldehyde while decomposing benzene and nicotine. One plant in a 200-square-foot room is enough to be an effective air filter.

Snake Plant (Sansevieria) This evergreen plant with stiff, vertical leaves is known by its nickname, “mother-in-law’s tongue.” This is one of the most drought-tolerant plants, able to handle low light and irregular/ infrequent watering. It removes benzene and passively absorbs formaldehyde.

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) Arguably the easiest houseplant to care for, even seasoned plant enthusiasts appreciate it for its many varieties and beautiful heart-shaped leaves. Pothos will tolerate lower light, humidity, and temperature levels while being one of the best plants for removing all types of indoor toxins.

Bamboo Palm (Dypsis lutescens) This plant variety originates from Madagascar and will instantly give your space a tropical feeling.

Sometimes called the areca palm or golden palm, the bamboo palm is best at eliminating benzene and formaldehyde.

Because the plant doesn’t take well to lack of water, you’re better off slightly overwatering than underwatering.

Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina) This flowering tree is great at removing benzene and formaldehyde but requires a little more attention. It prefers bright, filtered light and frequent misting and needs to be placed away from drafty areas in the home. Overwatering this can cause the leaves to yellow and fall off; only water it when the top two inches of soil are dry.

English Ivy (Hedera helix) Also referred to as common ivy, English ivy is a houseplant that can purify the air by removing toxins like mold, benzene, and formaldehyde. It’s easy to grow and is appreciated as a houseplant for its ability to grow to attractive lengths.

Dracaena “Janet Craig” (Dracaena fragrans) Also commonly known as the corn plant, the hardy, dark green leaves of the dracaena make it an attractive house plant that can grow quite tall. It is one of the best plants for removing trichloroethylene while also tolerating neglect and dim lighting.

Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) Ferns are best known for their ability to filter out xylene, toluene, and benzene pollutants. They require a bit more attention than other houseplants, as they prefer frequent watering and misting to mimic the humid South American habitat they originate from. An indoor humidifier can easily provide the humidity levels the plant craves without the need for constant misting on your part.

WELLSPRING / TEVES 5785

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SECOND OPINION

SECOND OPINION Compiled by Mimi Schweid

“For Hashem gives wisdom; from His Mouth comes knowledge and understanding.” (Mishlei 2:6) Hashem is the ultimate Healer. Invariably, human doctors will at times be stumped, leaving us searching for alternate answers.

Going from Dark to Light All my newborns were born with a beautiful dark complexion. I recall that when my first was born, it was quickly clarified that the color wasn’t a good thing at all: my baby was jaundiced. With each subsequent birth, I became a bit more familiar with the whats and whys of jaundice.

When the baby’s liver is not mature enough to process the bilirubin, it builds up in the newborn’s blood, creating that telltale yellowish tinge. Incidentally, my babies tend not to be yellowish; they usually have a lovely olive complexion, but upon doing a blood test their true numbers are revealed, and invariably, the levels are too high to make a bris on time. After my most recent birth, a baby

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girl, I wasn’t surprised that she was sleepy and needed to be woken up for feedings, as that was the case with all my babies.

But the doctor explained to me that this wasn’t the blessing I thought it was. An elevated bilirubin can affect the baby’s central nervous system and lead to lethargy and disinterest in feedings. The doctor recommended the blue light, but I didn’t feel comfortable putting her under it even though he assured me that it was safe and no harm ever came from using it. Since her bilirubin numbers were not in the dangerous range, however, he was okay with me opting out of using the light if I planned to pursue alternative remedies to get the numbers down further.

I consulted with a mohel, even though my baby was a girl.

I consulted with a mohel, even though my baby was a girl, and he was very helpful. He encouraged me to massage my baby with vitamin E oil and supplement with milk thistle, which would go into the breastmilk and support my baby’s liver. He also mentioned lycopodium, an old-time homeopathic remedy.

In addition, I took an herbal remedy called Jaundice Relief, which cleanses the liver and encourages the baby to have more bowel movements to clear the jaundice from her body.

Baruch Hashem, after 48 hours of this treatment, my princess was more alert, and the subsequent blood test showed vastly reduced numbers, much to the doctor’s satisfaction.

Taking It Easy For months, I had been complaining about headaches. They were intense enough for my wife to urge me to finally make an appointment with a general internist. The doctor dismissed my complaints and suggested we book a vacation. At the time that was not feasible, but we took heart that my general health was apparently in order, and it clearly wasn’t a serious issue.

A week after the doctor appointment, I started seeing “floaters”—little black dots wherever I looked. Floaters have the annoying tendency to drift about, looking like tiny stars and sometimes cobwebs.

I found them incredibly irritating, so I made an appointment with an ophthalmologist. The doctor ran several tests and suggested I stop wearing lenses and switch to glasses instead.

Two weeks in, the glasses

He also gave me some anti-stress supplements and Bach remedies, such as elm for overwhelmed people, and oak for people who go way beyond regular working hours. He demonstrated how to do “palming,” which involved rubbing my palms together, and—when they warmed up—placing them over my eyes, which causes great levels of relaxation, especially when coupled with deep breaths. I was also guided on some yoga and breathing techniques.

brought no improvement or change. The headaches were still present, as were the floaters. I tried resting, not reading, and dim lighting, but nothing changed.

My mother suggested we consult with an alternative healer.

I had never put much stock in alternative healing, but I was at my wits’ end.

The holistic healer inquired about my job and how many hours of the day I spent in front of a computer screen. I relayed how my long workday was primarily spent working on the computer, with very little ventilation, and upon prompting, I confessed to subsisting on brewed coffee and drinking almost no water.

The holistic practitioner’s first suggestion was that I get an antiglare film for my computer screen. He also recommended a blue screen saver for eye

I tried resting, not reading, and dim lighting, but nothing changed.

The protocol took some time to implement as it involved lots of changes. My work is important to me, and taking time off to drink water and “palm” was not always feasible. However, in the face of the headaches and floaters, I decided to invest in my wellbeing.

It’s been four weeks since I started implementing the recommendations, and b'chasdei Hashem, the improvements have been slow and steady.

WELLSPRING / TEVES 5785

Disclaimer: Always consult with a trusted licensed professional prior to discontinuing any medication.

protection. He cautioned me to stop drinking all brewed coffee and even minimize the instant stuff. Instead, he recommended I drink lots of water, preferably with added electrolytes.

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COMMUNITY 101 In this space, we feature a health-related question or predicament submitted by a Wellspring reader. Fellow readers are invited to participate in the conversation by sharing their tried-and-true advice and suggestions. Join the community!

FOREVER ON MY PHONE I’m embarrassed to say it, but I’m so busy with my phone—forever checking, texting, and scrolling. It feels unhealthy and wrong, but I see so many other people doing the same. It’s not that I’m addicted to my phone or busy with anything questionable; I just feel this constant inner pull to check it. How can I change my situation?

Thank you for bringing up this very loaded question. To me, my phone is the antithesis of health. I know that is a very strong statement, so I want to explain. In my stage as a young mother, I know the time I spend with my children is precious. This is my chance to offer them a healthy, happy, loving childhood that will be the foundation of their adult lives. I am able to fulfill that role in general, except for one main impediment: my phone.

So, your question completely resonates. Sometimes, I want to throw my phone in the lake! The phone has a certain pull that bumps me out of my peaceful living, and I’m trying to figure this out myself. Honestly, the only thing I find helpful is the power-off button. When I turn off my phone, my entire life comes into focus in a meaningful way. It’s not a very practical solution, but it gives me blocks of time where I feel more connected to what’s real.

On a scientific level, the social interaction the phone offers triggers the release of dopamine in the brain, which creates a pleasurable feeling. All humans are joy-seekers. That is how we were created.

We want dopamine and will do whatever we can to get it: constant phone-checking included. I’d suggest that you stop and recognize that need for joy. Don’t turn to your phone for it; rather, access it in other ways. Take up a hobby, turn on music, go for a walk, do some crafts.

The problem with turning to the phone for dopamine is that our brains cannot differentiate between hollow and real joy. Oftentimes, phone interactions are pointless, full of externals, and leave us feeling dysregulated. So yes, short-term boost of joy? Perhaps. But it doesn’t last very long. Hence, the obsession. Just realizing what is going on in the back end can help any person curb their phone addiction, on any level.

Best of luck!

E. Mandel, Chicago, Illinois

Please share any other ideas that readers submit. I’m very curious to learn more.

I start and end my day with my phone. I catch up with friends and family and take care of any technicalities. Then, during the day, I’m not all that busy with my phone. This system works great for me. I’m reachable at work and on my house phone, so I don’t feel the need to be constantly on my cell throughout the day.

Of course, I’ve discussed this with my husband and family so we are all on the same page. Perhaps this set-up can work for you, too.

P. Schoss, Jackson, New Jersey

Faigy H., Lakewood, New Jersey

Whom are you connecting with? Are the people in your life—and those drawing you to your phone—positive and inspiring? Are they people with whom you can have meaningful conversations? I think it’s important to differentiate between conversations that build us and conversations that break us. Sometimes, social interactions—whether via text, phone, or in person—can be so uplifting. They leave us feeling invigorated and able to tackle what we need to do. Other times, the social opportunities around us are the type that leave us feeling depleted and bitter. So, use your phone for good things. Fill your life with inspirational people, be kind to others, and then your phone will be a bastion of inspiration versus aimless distraction.

Tzivie F., Brooklyn, New York

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Now, please understand, we need connection. People need us and we need them. I don’t mean to cut off connection with the world. No, totally not. I am just sharing my experience with my phone on and off. Of course, there is a happy medium to be found. Perhaps you can put your phone on silent or leave it in your purse. One method that worked very well for me was to set aside times that I am available to others by phone. I make and return calls then and am fully available. But after that, I close my phone and go be me.

Perel T., Los Angeles, California

A great option for accountability is to share your password, or half of your password, with a spouse, friend, or mentor. I personally share my password with my husband. Whenever I want to open something on my phone, he knows about it, too. It’s a great system that works well for us. Another suggestion is to track your screen time and record it on a log. Aim to get your screen time lower each week, slowly minimizing the time spent scrolling.

A while back, I had a lot going on in my life on an emotional level. At that time, I found myself turning to my phone more often than I wanted to. These tips—along with some sessions with my therapist—helped me uncover what was behind it all and got me back on track. Best of luck.

Atara W., Monsey, New York

This question got me. I really appreciate my phone; it keeps me connected to my married children, updated with family pictures, and in the loop with community happenings. As all my children are married baruch Hashem, I rely on my phone to give me that social boost. However, I do realize that I need to be careful to carve out a life for myself beyond my phone. I need to be safe and settled without it, otherwise it’ll be a crutch that I don’t want to always have to rely on.

Thanks for this important question.

Eva, Flatbush, New York

Please note: These suggestions should not be implemented in place of guidance from a medical practitioner.

Phones and being present—the marker for health—don’t go together. When I want to be in the moment, connected to myself and living life most fully, I leave my device off, in a cabinet in my kitchen. This way, I feel that I am showing up to life in the truest, most open way. I’m ready to embrace life, handle what comes up, and be the best me. When my phone is on, I’m always scrolling, looking. I’m in the next minute, the future, the possibilities, but never in the now. I almost feel like a slave to each ping, text, or call that comes in. Instead of being me, living fully, I am at the mercy of what comes into my phone.

I’m wondering what you are referring to when you say “busy with my phone.” Are you referring to basic communication or to more than that? When it comes to shopping, news, games, social media, and the like, the struggle to pull back is so much more difficult. If that’s the case, first, commend yourself for being aware of the issue, and for the desire to fix it! That alone is a huge step.

Is downgrading your phone an option? In some cases, limiting your phone’s capabilities—by even just a notch—can offer you the opportunity to kick the phone obsession just like that. Otherwise, I’d suggest a buddy system. Find a friend who shares your dilemma. Agree with each other which times of the day are “off times,” when you both have your devices turned off. This partnership eases the struggles and introduces a real sense of accountability for both of you.

Find ways to support and encourage each other in this challenging but worthwhile journey. Good luck!

Sarala, Airmont, New York

Next Up: My two-year-old son developed a geographic tongue at the age of ten months. His tongue becomes affected with small open cuts and wounds after eating or drinking any acidic, spicy, or tart foods.

According to his pediatrician, there is no medical solution; all we can do is be careful of his food intake.

When his tongue comes in contact with food, it can be very painful, and this affects his appetite. Do Wellspring readers have any advice or suggestions to share?

Want to share what worked for you with a fellow Wellspring Community member? Send your response to info@wellspringmagazine.com.

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FITNESS

YOUR WORKOUT AT WORK

By Chaya Tziry Retter, RDN, BS, CPT Welcome back to our virtual studio!

Are you finding yourself sitting at a desk for hours on end?

Even though your workday might be just as long during the winter months as they are in brighter weather, the cold temperatures and overcast skies somehow make us feel lazier and less mobile. Let’s optimize our locations—wherever they are— to try and incorporate some movement into our day, every day.

Take a few minutes out of your lunch break to do these reps, and I’m confident you’ll find yourself with more focus and energy and greater productivity. No equipment today—just the chair you’re already sitting in.

Double Leg Lifts From a sitting position, bring your knees upward toward the chest and stretch out into full extension, forming a 90-degree angle from the upper body to the legs.

10 reps.

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Seated Russian Twists

Chair Dips

Keeping your legs together, lift them above the ground with the knees bent. Keeping the upper body stiff and chest open, clasp your hands together and twist your upper body to drop the clasped hands at the side of one thigh.

Keep heels firmly on the ground and hold onto the sides of your chair with each hand. Lift the body and dip your hips in front of the chair seat. Lift back up to a sitting position.

10 reps.

Alternate, 10 reps on each side.

Seated Bicycle Crunches

Bicep Curls

Hands behind your head, elbows wide, lift a knee upward toward your elbow and create a twist by rotating your opposite shoulder/elbow to meet your knee.

Imagine you are holding 5-lb weights in each hand (the mind excels at this!). While keeping your body stiff and tight, curl your lower arms upward while keeping the upper arms glued to your upper body.

Alternate, with 10 reps on each side.

10 reps.

Repeat this sequence three times for an energizing and rejuvenating midday workout.

Chaya Tziry Retter, RDN, BS, CPT, is a Monsey-based Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and ACE Certified Personal Trainer. In addition to her private practice, she recently launched “RESET Nutrition: The Workshop Series” to explore popular and often confusing topics in nutrition. She also developed a nutrition curriculum that she teaches in high schools. To get in touch and to find out about upcoming virtual workshops, reach out at 845.540.4487 or resetbyctretter@gmail.com.

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CUP OF TEA

I first met Libby a few years ago when I joined the cleft lip mothers’ text group.

Although my child does not have a cleft lip, she has a condition that causes many children to have issues with cleft palate or lip, and I was looking to connect to other families with the same diagnosis. I don’t remember who first told me about the chat, or how I connected. Since it is not an issue we are actively dealing with, I only look at it once in a while, and I rarely contribute.

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Then, recently, when I perused the messages, I saw there was an upcoming event scheduled in Monsey for January 22, 2025. I reached out to Libby, figuring this was a good time to get more in-depth information about the chat, and what exactly she does.

Libby was eager to talk to me. She is enthusiastic about helping guide families dealing with cleft lip or palate and is constantly looking for ways to connect to anyone who needs guidance or

support.

“My father was in the first male cohort for speech therapy in Touro College, and he’s been practicing for a very long time,” she shares. “I’ve always found it fascinating, and when I finished high school, I wanted to go into the field as well.

After getting a bachelor’s degree from TTI and fulfilling the speech prerequisites through Maimonides College, Libby attended Western Kentucky

Cup of Tea with Libby Solomon, MS-SLP AGE: 32 LOCATION: Monsey, New York FAMILY: Young family OCCUPATION: Speech therapist PASSION: Educating and connecting mothers of children with cleft lip and/or palate

SHE WISHES PEOPLE WOULD KNOW: Cleft lip/palate is not scary or life-threatening; it’s a journey, but many others have done it. And the children are endowed with extra chein.

By Devorah Levitz

University on Zoom about a decade before COVID made Zoom famous. She graduated in 2014 with a master’s in speech and language pathology.

“Every milestone in school seems to mirror a milestone in my personal life,” Libby tells me. “I got married right before starting college, finished my bachelor’s around when my first child was born, completed my clinicals around when my second child was born, and finished my supervision right before I

had my third.”

After finishing the academic portion of her schooling, Libby began to work in the KJ school district. “It was an amazing experience,” she enthuses. “There are over a dozen therapists working in that school district. There was always somebody to whom I could ask any question. It gave me excellent hands-on experience with top-notch supervision. At the time, I found it somewhat frustrating to work with a

supervisor who was a stickler for details, but looking back, it was a great gift. The supervisor’s meticulousness ensured that I developed a solid background in writing reports, recording notes, and running a session.”

Libby was there for five years when she got a job offer in Monsey working for Bikur Cholim’s Achieve Behavioral Health division. Currently, Libby works in a cheder and a girls’ school, seeing children during school hours

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CUP OF TEA

and helping them make strides in their speech and language skills.

Libby’s involvement with cleft palate began when she gave birth to her fifth child, who was born with a cleft lip and palate.

A cleft means a space; a cleft lip or cleft palate is a birth defect that occurs when the baby’s lip and/or mouth do not develop properly during pregnancy.

With a cleft lip, there is a gap in the upper lip that can occur on either the right side, left side, or both. It can range from a small notch to a large opening, extending all the way to the nose.

Cleft palate is when the roof of the mouth has a gap, ranging from small to wide.

While a number of factors have been studied that may contribute to the development of a cleft lip or palate, for the most part, there is nothing specific doctors can point to that causes this situation. It is simply the way Hashem caused the baby to develop in utero. It is one of the most common birth defects, with cleft lip occurring in approximately 1/1000 babies, and cleft palate in approximately 1/1,600.

While new parents might be most worried about the baby’s looks, the most immediate concern is actually feeding. Since the lip and/or palate are open, sucking is difficult and bottles have to be adapted for the baby.

The lip is usually repaired at around three months, and the palate at around 9–12 months.

It is helpful, but not a must, to do research before the baby is born so parents can contact the doctor right away to start preparing the baby for surgery.

Parents also need to be aware that children with cleft lip or palate are at risk for chronic fluid and ear infections, so tubes

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are often placed at the repair surgery. Around 10 percent of children with repaired cleft palate struggle with nasal-sounding speech and require intensive speech therapy. “The best motto to keep in mind is to take things one day at a time,” says Libby.

“Focus on the most immediate concern and don’t worry now about what your child will need later.”

“It typically takes many appointments to sort everything out and treat the child,” Libby explains. “We were lucky that we were going to NYU in 2020.

With so many people working from home due to COVID, our travel times were greatly reduced compared to any other year.”

“Our baby was very small,” Libby continues, “and because his health was precarious in other ways unrelated to the cleft, the doctors did not want to give him a nasoalveolar molding device (NAM). This is a custom-made acrylic mouthpiece fitted over the roof of the baby’s mouth to close the cleft. It is adjusted every week and can improve the shape of the nose and reduce the gap in the upper lip.

This can help reduce the number of surgeries the child needs to go through and improve the final results.

“The problem is that the NAM is not very comfortable. Anyone who’s ever had orthodontics or sleep devices in their mouth can surely commiserate with a tiny baby who has to deal with something like this. Many children don’t eat well until they adjust to the NAM. Because my child was so tiny, this was not a risk we could take. We needed to make sure he took in and retained every possible ounce and calorie .

“His orthodontist, Dr. Pradip

“Focus on the most immediate concern and don’t worry now about what your child will need later.”

Shetye, is an amazing person.

I’m not sure if this was in the works before my baby came around, but he developed a 3-D printed device that shaped just his nose and did not involve the mouth so it would not interfere with his feeding. In the end, the device worked so well that the team in NYU now does it for almost all children who come to their center. It is a much more comfortable way to prepare the baby for lip repair surgery. In 2021, CleftAlign released this device, known as NoseAlign or PLANA. It is now used by other doctors throughout the USA and is gaining traction as it becomes more well known. The NAM, as well as other methods, are still in use as well.”

I bring the conversation back to the text group. Libby tells me that when her child was born, there was no support group in the frum world for mothers of children with cleft lip or palate.

A few months later, she saw an ad for a text group that was starting. A mother of a child with cleft lip and palate was beginning a group in order to connect with others and share support.

After some time in the group, Libby noticed a few things that kept occurring. It seemed that every time a new woman joined, she asked many of the questions that had already been addressed, but because it was a text group she was not able to access the old information. Additionally, many people in the group were new mothers who were trying to understand the terminology and medical information that the doctors use so casually but do not explain.

Because Libby is a fully trained and licensed speech and language pathologist, she found herself defining and explaining

many terms for the benefit of the other mothers. New mothers would call referral organizations and then post on the group, wanting to speak with other mothers who used the recommended doctor. This would happen over and over again. Libby began to consider how she could streamline the information and make it more easily accessible to families. She reached out to individual members of the group and with their permission, she collected data about what type of cleft their child had, which doctor they used, and how they felt about the process and outcome.

Now, when a new parent joins the group, Libby is able to connect them with other families who have trod this journey. Everything is done with complete confidentiality, and Libby does not give out any personal information other than the contact info of people who have given her permission to share their names with new members.

Libby also created a data sheet with other resources for families dealing with cleft lip and palate.

In July 2021, when her baby was well on his treatment path, Libby arranged an event in a restaurant for the women of the text group to meet each other.

With members from Lakewood, Monsey, Boro Park, Williamsburg, and Monroe, they settled on Mocha Bleu in Teaneck as a central enough location. About 20–25 women joined that initial meeting.

Meeting in person helped the women connect in a deeper way, and each one felt supported when she saw how many others just like her were going through the same process. In July 2023, Libby organized another event in Monsey, where mothers met, exchanged stories, and watched

excerpts of the interviews Libby had taken with doctors in the field answering FAQs. This time, attendance was triple the size, with approximately 60–65 women, including new members from Passaic and Linden.

they’d be willing to do a Zoom recording so that our members could get answers to frequently asked questions.

“Some of the interviews were with just me and the doctor and some were open to the support group. It depended on the doctor’s comfort level and availability. For the most part, the doctors do not want these interviews to be public as they are very specific to my questions, and they don’t want people to misuse the information.

I ask Libby about the interviews. It’s always easier to understand when I can see something for myself, and I am eager to watch these videos so I can get a feel for what her work entails. Libby explains that none of these videos are available online anywhere; people can only view a video if she specifically sends it to them with instructions.

She explains how she began making the videos and why she developed this policy. “One of the things I noticed with the group was that each parent had the same questions. Everybody was concerned about scarring, at what age to undertake each step, and what the process is for bone grafting. I reached out to the doctors whose names came up the most and asked them if

Libby is able to connect them with other families who have trod this journey.

“At this point I have done eight of these conferences and they are available on USB or via email to new parents in our group.”

I assure Libby that I understand why the doctors prefer it that way and express admiration that she has the organizational skills, leadership skills, and tenacity to continue to collect this information at personal expense just in order to help others.

To date, the recordings include

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CUP OF TEA

interviews with many top doctors in the fields of craniofacial plastic surgery, orthodontics, and speech and language pathology (see sidebar).

Libby confides that she can usually tell which organization the families are in touch with based on the questions they ask or the doctor they ask about. Libby is clear about the fact that she does not do referrals; she sticks to guiding parents through the journey. Our community is blessed with a number of medical resource organizations that do great work in recommending doctors. For the most part, when somebody calls a referral organization, they are given a doctor’s name— and also Libby’s number. She guides them through the process regardless of the doctor they choose. She educates them with feeding tips, the surgical timeline and terminology, and matches them up with parents who are willing to share. She’s even gotten questions from families overseas.

Many parents know before birth if their child is likely to have a cleft lip and/or palate.

These parents reach out to Libby for information and support so they can be best prepared to help their child right from the start. Many times, they want to know if there’s a chance the scans are wrong.

“I don’t like to give people false hope,” Libby concedes. “In the vast majority of instances, if the doctors see a cleft, it will be there when the child is born. But until that time there is always room for tefillah. Sonograms aren’t perfect and there is a large range of cleft severity. Some are more complex than others, requiring longer treatment journeys.” She has had mothers who gave birth to children with very slight cleft

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lips after being told it would be a cleft lip and palate. “It is best to collect relevant information and be prepared. But never forget to daven that whatever happens should be as easy as possible for all involved.

“Some people are afraid of what others will think, but baruch Hashem there is a lot less stigma and a lot more awareness than even 25 years ago.

People are much more accepting and recognize that having a child with cleft lip or cleft palate does not say anything about the parents or the health of the family in general.”

Libby describes how the stigma has decreased over the years. “I have a database of people who had cleft lip or palate, and of the 230 names, most are under ten years of age and basically all are under thirty. Thirty years ago, if a baby was born with cleft palate, which is not visible externally, their parents were likely to hide the condition due to stigma. If the child had a cleft lip, they were often kept at home until after the cleft was fixed. Cleft lip is much harder to

"A cleft lip or cleft palate does not say anything about the health of the family in general.”

hide or deny because there is usually—at the very least—a thin scar, but even then, in some cases, the scars were often explained away without revealing the full story.”

Libby is passionate about the message she wants to give all parents of children with cleft lip or palate. “People want perfection,” she says with a sigh. “They forget that there is no perfection like Hakadosh Baruch Hu. Only Hashem is perfect. Until Moshiach comes, there is no perfection in the world.

“Love your child and understand that no matter what he or she looks or sounds like, they are valuable and deserving of love just how they are.

For the record, the mothers in our group report that their cleft children have outsized personalities and extra chein!

“Sometimes people think that if a child doesn’t look or act perfect, they aren’t worthy of being displayed in public. One cleft mother shared with me that when a distant acquaintance saw the profes-

sional photograph of her cleft child, pre-surgery, she had commented, ‘That’s so ugly! You should not be displaying this on the wall or you will give your child a massive complex!’ That’s not the Jewish way of looking at things. Hashem made your child this way, and Hashem does not make mistakes. Your child is perfect just as they are.

“There is no shame in cleft.

You didn’t do anything wrong.

It’s not like fetal alcohol syndrome, where the mother’s actions cause the child’s developmental issues. When it comes to cleft, the mother did nothing wrong. This was what Hashem sent to this mother, to this family, to this child. It’s not a punishment. Before it was born, this neshamah knew exactly what it was getting, and it accepted it all. The neshamah knew how it would live and die, and it agreed to the life it was destined to lead.

Rav Wosner of Monsey once told me that a child chooses the parents that can raise them to their tafkid. Cleft is not shameful and should not be a secret.

Everything is harder when it’s a secret! This is your job that was chosen for you and the right thing to do is to go out and do it with joy. Hashem is waiting to see how you will love and raise your child to serve Him and increase His presence in this world.

“It is also important to remember that there are no guarantees.

We research and look for an experienced doctor with a great track record—but Hashem is in charge of the outcome. Some children will look better than others who used the same doctor, because that was destined for them. Once you do your due diligence, let bitachon take over and leave the rest to Hashem.”

Libby also tries to spread

awareness to families who are not directly impacted by cleft.

She shares with me an incident that happened when she was at the gym with her baby.

“He looks different, even after his surgery, which is due to his medical condition rather than the cleft necessarily,” she explains. “He was resting in Doona near me as I exercised, and a lady came over, and said to me, ‘I hope you don’t mind me saying, but I was just at a doctor to remove a birthmark and I saw a poster on the wall with a lot of children who look like your son.

Maybe the doctor can do something for your son?’

“I explained to her that this is a cleft, and it’s already fixed.

She seemed clueless. ‘What’s a cleft?’ she asked, ‘Is that like a tongue tie?’

“I want people to know what a cleft is so they can understand what a parent dealing with it is going through, and so that they can understand what it is when they see it. As our community grows, there are more and more children born with cleft. The percentage rate of cleft is the same, but that translates into more babies in our community dealing with a cleft.

Despite a full-time job as a mommy and also speech therapist, Libby is determined to help as many families as she can. She believes that no mother or father should ever fear the birth of a child with a cleft. She is available to speak to parents both before and after birth, and of course, the mother is invited to join the text group. And if you are reading this before January 22nd, you are welcome to join the meetup in Monsey.

Libby M. Solomon can be reached at 845 659 5428. Text (anytime) is preferred, calls are most welcome after 9:00 PM.

Resources for Parents Plastic Surgeons Rachel A. Ruotolo, MD, FACS, is a board-certified plastic surgeon, based in Long Island, who specializes in pediatric plastic and craniofacial surgery. She is currently the co-director of Cohen Children’s Hagedorn Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Center.

Roberto L. Flores, MD, is a specialist in pediatric plastic surgery and reconstructive plastic surgery, director of NYU Cleft Lip and Palate Program, and a pioneer in the construction of digital animation and simulation tools to teach surgeons complex reconstructive procedures of the face.

James P. Bradley, MD, is a well-known cosmetic and craniofacial surgeon, professor and vice chairperson at Northwell Health Plastic Surgery, and specializes in craniofacial and cosmetic surgery. He is on the medical team of NextGenFace Foundation.

Stephen M. Warren, MD, FACS, is a board-certified plastic surgeon with an international reputation in the surgical treatment of patients with cleft lip and palate.

Dr. Warren is past director of the Variety Center for Craniofacial Surgery at NYU. Dr. Warren brings the world’s premier practice of cleft lip and palate surgery to Lenox Hill Hospital.

Oksana A. Jackson, MD, is an attending surgeon, chair in plastic surgery and co-director of the Cleft Lip and Palate Program at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).

Richard E. Kirschner, MD, FAAP, FACS, is chief of plastic and reconstructive surgery at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and a nationally recognized leading authority in cleft lip and palate, velopharyngeal dysfunction, 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, and hemangiomas/vascular malformations.

Orthodontists Pradip R. Shetye, DDS, is a craniofacial orthodontist at NYU Langone Plastic Surgery Associates who specializes in providing orthodontic care to people born with facial differences that may require reconstructive surgery, including patients who have cleft lip and cleft palate, or other craniofacial conditions affecting the teeth, jaws, and face.

Ronald S. Jacobson, DDS, MS, is an orthodontic member of the craniofacial team at Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago, who continues to teach the residents in the orthodontic/craniofacial component of the Pediatric Dental Program and other colleges.

Speech Therapy Karen J. Golding-Kushner, PhD, is the owner and director of the Golding-Kushner Speech Center, LLC, in New Jersey and a Fellow of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, whose private practice is devoted to treating communication disorders associated with cleft palate, craniofacial disorders and syndromes.

Upcoming interviews with additional professionals are in the works, including Matthew Rontal, MD, an ENT surgeon, author, and lecturer in Michigan who is widely known for his expert treatment of hypernasal speech in children with cleft palate; and Mark J. Bronsky DMD, MS, who is a board-certified specialist in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics in New York City.

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MEDICAL SAGA

THE PHANTOM PAIN My gallbladder was gone—so why did it still hurt?

As told to Mattie Steinberg

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I

It was supposed to be a routine procedure. After years of contending with sporadic gallbladder attacks, I’d finally had enough; it was time to have my gallbladder taken out. But then came COVID-19 and with it the inability to schedule any non-emergency surgery. And so we waited.

By the tail end of 2020, mass hysteria over COVID had somewhat died down and elective medical procedures were once again available.

and allowed myself to be pampered by both my parents and my husband. As soon as I’d get up to do something, my mom would caution me to take it easy…and I did. I rested up and was already imagining the wonderful week ahead.

We opted for West Palm Beach where my parents were offering to host us for Shabbos—quiet, welcoming, and warm. I hoped I would relax there for a week and come back rejuvenated and ready to get back to normal.

The surgery went very well.

Aside from communicating through the cumbersome masks and not being able to have anyone with me at any point of the pre- or post-op waiting, the experience was, relatively speaking, very positive.

By Wednesday morning the pain was radiating in my entire abdominal area, very reminiscent of a gallbladder attack. I knew my gallbladder was out and wondered whether phantom pain applied to a missing internal organ.

I went home that evening, and we flew out to Florida on Thursday afternoon. I was feeling a lot better, even if I still tired easily. As soon as the doors of Palm Beach International opened to the pleasant Floridian evening, I inhaled deeply, grateful for our decision.

By evening the pain was traveling up my chest and down my left arm. This time I assumed it was because I had lifted the suitcase—we were preparing to return to New York the following morning.

Over Shabbos, I slept a lot

That night, the pain was unrelenting. It wasn’t a stabbing or sharp pain, or I would have rushed to the emergency room despite being so far away from home. It was more of throbbing, dull, persistent discomfort in my abdominal area that was driving me mad. I couldn’t wait to get back to familiar surroundings and go see my own doctor.

On Sunday, my parents left, leaving us with their lovely apartment and a reminder to not overdo it.

I didn’t, or at least, I didn’t intend to. On Tuesday afternoon some cousins called to say they were in the area, and I was actually excited for the change of pace. I figured it would be the perfect time to host. I invited them over and ran around the condo, making sure the place looked as lovely as my mother had left it. By the time my cousins arrived, I was wiped out and in pain, and they commented on my weak state. One of them had had her own gallbladder removed years prior and she said recovery time was two days. I told her that had been my time frame too, and this regression was new. I blamed my obsessive cleaning for my exhaustion and hoped I’d feel better the following day.

The laparoscopic cholecystectomy was scheduled for a Monday in early December. I was advised that most people go home the same day and typically feel better within a few days. With recovery predicted to happen relatively quickly, my husband and I figured it would be the perfect time to take off from household responsibilities and work and go on a small getaway.

help, but I really wanted to do it myself. I like to know what I pack so I can make room for everything, and have things neat and streamlined for the other end.

I sat on the floor as I packed clumsily, mostly using my right arm. My husband attempted to

At the airport, my husband arranged for a wheelchair to get me from check-in to the gate. Anyone familiar with the charming PBI terminal would think this laughable; the entire building is rather small, and the distance from the entrance to our gate is but a short stroll.

And yet I was grateful for the offer. The persistent discomfort was tiring me out.

Once we landed in LGA, I was even more relieved to have a wheelchair waiting for me. At that point I didn’t care about the curious glances. I couldn’t imagine walking any distance.

I knew my gallbladder was out and wondered whether phantom pain applied to a missing internal organ.

I arrived home more tired than when I’d left and made my way straight to bed. Once there, I called my doctor, and he asked me to describe the pain.

“Some patients are more sensitive than others,” he explained. “It could be from the incision sites, or it could just be part of the recovery process. I’m not really worried, but if you’re feeling very uncomfortable, I’d suggest going to the local ER to have yourself checked out.”

I was starting to feel like a hypochondriac. My husband was concerned about my condition, but he was also inclined to be-

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MEDICAL SAGA

point what might be the source of your pain. Everything looked good to us. You’re likely experiencing the typical recovery spasms.” And with that, I was summarily discharged.

lieve the doctor that maybe I was more sensitive because I’d never had surgery, and my discomfort was a little more severe than expected.

It was close to midnight, but I couldn’t sleep. The throbbing discomfort was relentless; I was practically bouncing in place.

My husband was watching me anxiously and finally decided it had gone on long enough. I silently agreed. Something was wrong and it was time to find out what.

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bad is the pain right now.”

I answered honestly. It was a six. Maybe a seven. It wasn’t excruciating. It wasn’t agonizing. It was just a persistent throb that was driving me mad.

She reviewed my medical history and told me to wait for the resident.

“At this point, I was back at work,” said my brother-in-law, who’d had his gallbladder removed and thought it was odd that I was acting like an invalid.

He arrived, similarly masked up. He too checked my notes and remarked that I was barely a week post-op. I reminded him that I had been feeling better before it got worse.

I arrived at the emergency room and their first question was whether I’d traveled anywhere recently. I said I had just come back to Florida. Immediately, I was shepherded into a private room. I explained that I’d been to Palm Beach, alone, with no exposure to any people.

It didn’t matter to them. Rules were rules, and with COVID-19 still running the show, Florida was on the verboten list.

He left me to go consult with the staff and to call my doctor who was practicing at that hospital. They finally came back with a large bottle containing a white, thick chalky drink.

At that point I didn’t care. I sat in the side room waiting until a nurse, all geared up, came to ask me what was going on. Her yellow jumpsuit looked ridiculous but as soon as she finished asking the first question, I burst into tears. I tried to explain the progression of the pain, but stumped her when she asked, “On a scale of one to ten, how

Things then started happening quickly. Shortly after I downed that vile-tasting liquid, they brought the wheelchair over and took me to radiology.

After the scan I was returned to the secluded area in the ER and it wasn’t long before they returned with the inconclusive update.

WELLSPRING / JANUARY 2025

I spent a fitful night, quite literally tossing and turning, attempting to find a comfortable position. My parents once again invited us for Shabbos, this time with my kids in tow, since I was clearly in no position to prepare Shabbos on my own. I had no way to explain the pain and weakness, now almost two weeks after surgery.

The doctor was surprised at my pain as well. I was grateful for all the years I hadn’t majorly complained about even my intense gallbladder attacks.

Because of my usually easygoing demeanor, my husband took my pain seriously. Still, we chalked it up to “a difficult recovery,” and made our way over to my childhood home.

“This is barium sulfate,” the doctor explained. “After you drink it, we’ll do a contrast CT scan to help the doctors see your stomach and bowels and assess what might be causing the pain.”

“We’re sorry. We couldn’t pin-

"Everything looked good to us.

You’re likely experiencing the typical recovery spasms.”

All Shabbos, I was alternating between excessive doses of ibuprofen and acetaminophen.

Every time I swallowed the pills, I’d have a scant hour of relief, and then I was once again bouncing my knee, a telltale sign that my pain had returned.

Immediately after Havdalah, I was once again en route to the hospital. Discomfort might have been normal, but this pain clearly was not.

Once again, my visit to Florida had me isolated, but this time I called upon a cousin who was a well-respected and wellliked head nurse in the hospital. With the right connections

she ensured that I was seen in record time—but like the previous visit, they determined that another contrast scan was in order. This time though, things happened more slowly. Instead of rushing me straight to radiology, they advised me that they would wait for the dye to make it all the way to my lower intestines. The two hours in the isolated room felt like eons, but the wait paid off.

The contrast CT scan revealed that I had portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in my liver. My relief at the news seemed misplaced as blood clots are generally not considered good news. But for me, finally knowing what was causing my pain was reassuring and somehow validating. I had been starting to believe that

Know the Risks: The risk for a blood clot is greatest between two and ten days post-surgery, but odds remain higher for about three months.

Depending on the surgery, the likelihood of a blood clot is always extremely low (between 1 and 2.5 percent), but it should always be included in the differential.

Symptoms of portal vein thrombosis (PVT) after surgery may include the following: • Abdominal pain • Nausea and vomiting • Fever • Swelling in the legs and feet • Bloated stomach • Rectal bleeding • Vomiting blood

perhaps I was overacting.

For me, the most surprising part of the diagnosis came later, when I discovered that deep vein thromboses (DVT) after laparoscopic surgeries were not incredibly rare. Why then, I later wondered, had no one considered this possibility right from the start? While traditional abdominal surgery runs a 2.5 percent risk of a blood clot post-surgery, laparoscopic procedures have a “substantially lower” rate, at only 1.7 percent.

Still, for a facility that does hundreds of procedures a week, this shouldn’t have been so hard to spot.

The danger of life-threatening blood clots is that most patients don’t present with symptoms.

Only about half the people who have DVT present with any symptoms at all. And even for those who do, while some might experience severe pain, many only feel mild discomfort.

A patient who develops PVT after laparoscopic surgery might present with symptoms like non-specific abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension, and fever; however, because many cases are asymptomatic, early detection can be challenging. Even among those who do have symptoms, because they are so often vague, they’re easily mistaken for typical post-operative discomfort.

To further complicate matters, symptoms don’t always appear immediately after surgery.

ischemia, liver failure, and internal bleeding. And too often, the clot isn’t caught before major damage has been done.

Be’chasdei Hashem, the clot was caught relatively early, and I was ceremoniously admitted—to a private room, of course; the COVID isolation protocol finally paid off!

I was started on the most common blood thinner, warfarin, which requires constant monitoring to ensure the blood levels are just right. Naturally, that involved blood being drawn hourly. Under normal circumstances I’m no fan of my blood being drawn. It is surprising how being grateful and suddenly aware of the precariousness of life can alter our sentiments to even uncomfortable situations.

After two days on warfarin, I was prescribed Eliquis, a newer anticoagulant. Once the drug dosage was regulated, almost a week into my hospital stay and 18 days post-op, I was finally allowed home.

I remained on anticoagulation medication for three months for the blood clot to dislodge and to prevent further clot formation.

To further complicate matters, symptoms don’t always appear immediately after surgery and could develop within a few weeks.

In retrospect, I’m inordinately grateful for the pain. Had I not felt the discomfort, the blood clot would have gone undiagnosed. I’m also much more aware of the importance of being informed. Had I known the prevalence of blood clots post-surgery, I might have been able to get an earlier diagnosis and resolved the issue a lot sooner.

The most daunting piece of information, for me, was that a liver PVT can be life-threatening, as it can lead to severe complications like intestinal

I’ve also learned the importance of trusting your gut and advocating for yourself, even when you’re told “it’s normal.”

Because sometimes it isn’t.

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GUT REACTION

By Tamar Feldman, RDN, CDE

INTUITIVE EATING VS. DIET MENTALITY Does it need to be all or nothing?

consulted by younger Registered Dietitians regarding my take on this discussion. In my opinion, like many questions, it is not a black-and-white answer, but rather a gray, nuanced one.

“My sister-in-law started following Intuitive Eating principles last year, and claims she feels freer around food, calmer with her kids, and happier about her body,” Avital told me.

“My best friend, a chronic yoyo dieter all of her life, maintains that learning this approach is the best thing that ever happened to her,” Leah insisted.

These are the questions I often encounter from clients who want to understand my perspective on the Intuitive Eating vs. dieting question. Avital, four months postpartum, consulted with me regarding trying to lose 20 pounds of baby weight, but was confused about the mixed messaging going on around her regarding weight loss and body image. Although she tried to eat healthfully, she often fell into junk food in the afternoon when things got hectic for lack of time

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and options, but she wanted to be able to fit back into her old clothing and feel more energetic.

“What do you think? Is it really so wrong of me to want to get back to my old size?” she asked plaintively. “Does this whole new-age anti-diet culture thing really mean that I should just accept my size as is and be proud of my body’s amazing abilities without formally attempting to change my size back to my pre-baby look?”

Leah, 63 years old, was 30 pounds overweight with an elevated A1C, indicating pre-diabetes, as well as elevated triglycerides. She was also wondering if an intuitive approach was something she should consider.

Indeed, many of my colleagues struggle with the understanding of this subject, and I am often

It is not a blackand-white answer, but rather a gray, nuanced one.

To answer this question, we need an understanding of what the Intuitive Eating approach entails and what its benefits and limitations are. According to the Harvard school of Public Health, Intuitive Eating is “an approach to eating based on one’s internal needs, whether physical, emotional, or other influencers. When these needs are recognized, they may determine one’s food choices. Because the method is based on an individual’s needs at one moment in time, it does not focus on specific foods, a calorie level to reach, or even eating at certain times.

It has been used as an approach to lose weight as well as a treatment strategy for those with disordered eating patterns.” Intuitive Eating focuses on body cues such as hunger and satiety, as well as other cues for eating, whether social, emotional, or visual, and seeks to create an intention in eating that allows the individual to understand their food choices better. The approach encourages responding to hunger and satiety, learning to deal with negative emotions in non-food related manners, and honoring and respecting the body regardless of size.

Before jumping on the Intuitive Eating train for all of its many good points, and with respect to those who consider this the only or ideal approach when dealing with overweight individuals, I take a more nuanced outlook that considers the individual, specifically their health, their relationship with food, and their goals. In simpler terms, what works for one may not work for the next, and just because an intuitive approach is vital for your neighbor who has a complicated, disordered history related to food, it doesn’t mean it is the best approach for you.

While the approach has significant benefits regarding relationship with food, body positivity, and sustainability, its major drawback, as I see it, is that consumption of healthful, disease-preventing food is not necessarily a given. Although I am aware that some versions of the approach, in its orthodox interpretation, may put stronger emphasis on healthful food choices, in general, this is a significant downside to the approach. Indeed, some research shows that permission to eat all foods without good or bad labels can sometimes lead to unhealthful food choices. Therefore, I believe that for those seeking to improve health outcomes, a combination of Intuitive Eating practices with nutrition education on healthful eating principles is more productive.

For those who would like to lose weight, I believe in allowing each individual the freedom to make their own choices on body size without judgment. I can understand the desire to look slimmer, and I don’t agree that body acceptance of a larger size than desired has to be the one and only right way for everyone across the board. So long as the eating plan is done in a manner that respects the body—providing sufficient nutrition, avoiding hunger, and allowing for “non-healthful/caloric” foods as desired in controlled moderation to enable long-term sustainability—I feel

Just because an intuitive approach is vital for your neighbor who has a complicated, disordered history related to food, it doesn’t mean it is the best approach for you. that a more structured approach can benefit most individuals who have no history of chronic dieting or complicated emotional relationships with eating. The Intuitive Eating approach may not result in the desired reduction in body size that many choose as their goal, and some dietary structure is often necessary to attain that goal.

For those who challenge structured weight loss approaches with the poor statistics on dieting for longterm maintenance, I believe that the research would present differently if fad and extreme diets were eliminated from the studies. If structured healthy eating plans under licensed dietitians were studied, from my anecdotal experience, I believe they would be proven to have excellent long-term sustainability statistics for emotionally healthy individuals.

For Avital and Leah, I designed a “normal,” balanced, and healthful eating plan that they loved and could see themselves following long term. They had room for treats, saw results on the scale, and food didn’t take over their thoughts. We discussed some Intuitive Eating principles in combination, such as hunger cue awareness and respect for the body. Avital learned healthy quick food options that worked for her lifestyle and weight loss goals, and she achieved the increased energy

levels she was seeking. Leah became more physically active, consumed a more healthful Mediterranean diet in structured quantities, lost 25 pounds, and showed a normalization in her lab markers. Once at the maintenance phase, I began to implement a more intuitive approach for the long term.

The structured approach may be contraindicated or unsuccessful for those with an eating disorder or a history of chronic dieting or disordered eating patterns, and an intuitive approach may very well serve that population best. But for clients such as Avital and Leah who simply want to lose weight in a healthful and sustainable way and improve health outcomes, I am a proponent of a more structured method, combined with some Intuitive Eating principles for the best possible longterm results.

Tamar Feldman, RDN, CDE, is a dietitian whose mission is to improve lives by empowering individuals to use nutrition to improve their gut health and hormone balance. She is a recognized expert on IBS/SIBO and has developed the Gut Dietitian training protocols on IBS and IBD for Registered Dietitian education. She writes, lectures, and counsels extensively on IBD, IBS, PCOS/fertility, and thyroid health, and is the founder of www. thegutdietitian.com virtual practice and co-founder of the app Belly.

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MORE OR LESS

by Sheindy Unger, CDC

More or Less:

IS FRUIT GOOD FOR YOU?

One of the most common questions I get as a nutritionist is about fruit. Is fruit good for you or is it too high in sugar? I’ve seen clients eat cookies instead of fruit, not knowing how poor that choice is. While the two may look similar when it comes to carbs, foods containing added sugar have a very different effect on the body than those that contain sugar naturally.

What About Sugar?

Sugar, also known as carbs, is a crucial nutrient for health and energy. Sugar is not damaging to health in and of itself. The reason we’ve been brainwashed about sugar is because most sugar intake in the American diet is highly processed and unnatural. It’s unlikely you will develop obesity or diabetes from eating fruits; sugars found naturally in a food are good for you.

“Eat the Rainbow” You are what you eat. Replacing calorie-dense, low-nutrient food with high-nutrient fruits contributes to better health.

Whole fruits are packed with nutrients. The old adage “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” is true.

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Chock-Full of Nutrients!

It’s difficult to ingest excessive amounts of fructose from fruit. Fiber reduces the impact of sugar on the body, and fruits are a good source of fiber. The amount of sugar found in fruit—including the fiber—is safe and healthy. Additionally, fruits provide much-needed vitamins that are immune boosting.

Some superfruits are as follows: Berries: Mix defrosted, whole blueberries and strawberries with plain yogurt for a healthy breakfast.

Kiwis: Cut in half and scoop out the fruit with a spoon.

Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon onto almost any food, including fish, chicken, vegetable salad, fruit salad, or vegetable soup.

Oranges: Make a fruit salad with diced oranges and apples. Top with walnuts or slivered almonds.

Sheindy Unger is a certified nutritionist and founder of Weight Loss by Sheindy. Her debut cookbook, Nourished by Nature, is available in better Judaica stores. Sheindy hosts the Nourished by Nature podcast, available on your favorite listening app. She is also a popular speaker on the Akeres Habayis hotline and can be contacted via email: sheindelunger@gmail.com or WhatsApp 646.498.6696. More info on her program is available on her website: weightlossbysheindy. com and on Instagram @weightlossbysheindy.

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THE WAY EYE SEE IT Anne Negrin, MD

AMD Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is a leading cause of vision loss among people aged fifty and older.

To better understand the illness, imagine your eyes are a high-resolution camera. The macula is the part that captures those sharp, detailed images. But with AMD, that part starts to blur, like someone turned down the definition. The disease damages the macula, the part of the retina that controls central vision.

If you are like most people, though, you probably do not know a lot about the condition, so let me help get you up to speed.

What Increases Our Risk Factors?

First there’s age. People are typically diagnosed with this condition after the age of sixty, and the numbers go up as they get older.

Lifestyle also plays a role; for example, research shows that smoking doubles the risk of AMD. The sun too, can do damage. UV rays entering the eyes over the course of a lifetime are known to be a risk factor for developing AMD. It would therefore be smart to teach children the habit of wearing sunglasses outdoors from an early age. As for adults, adopt the habit of wearing sunglasses whenever you are outdoors.

Diet is always relevant. Numerous studies have found that people who consume a healthier diet have a lower risk of macular degeneration. Foods like green vegetables, blueberries, and fish have been proven especially beneficial for eye health.

Wet and Dry

The Genetic Component

Macular degeneration comes in two types: wet and dry.

If you have any family members with AMD, it is especially important to get checked early on. And if you are diagnosed with this condition, there are vitamins and diet adjustments that have been proven to slow the progression to this vision-threatening disease.

There is no cure, but treatment can slow down the process. In fact, millions of people live with signs of dry macular degeneration for years but retain good vision when following a treatment protocol.

The “dry” kind is where things slowly fade to gray. And then there’s the “wet” kind, where rogue blood vessels pop up and start a leak, causing a blurrier mess faster than you can say “reading glasses.”

Thankfully, the majority of people with AMD have the dry type. This version will show up on an eye exam, but it doesn’t greatly affect vision early on. Sometimes, the dry type progresses to the wet type, which can lead to scarring in the macula and different levels of blindness in the eye.

Foggy Vision Early or intermediate indications of macular degeneration may include blurred, cloudy, distorted, or central smudging of vision. Our optimal goal, though, is detecting the disease before any symptoms are present. The only way to know for sure if you have early signs of AMD is to go to your ophthalmologist for yearly eye exams, once you hit age 55. You may have no symptoms and great vision but still have early detectable indicators in your eyes.

Don’t miss your chance to prevent early onset of AMD. Additionally, there are other diseases that can be detected with regular eye exams. Early detection might allow for a choice of treatment options and reduce risk of permanent damage.

Do your eyes a favor and get them checked.

Dr. Anne Negrin studied at Cornell University and earned her medical degree from New York Medical College. After returning to NYC, she completed her ophthalmology training at St. Vincent’s Catholic Medical Centers of Brooklyn and Queens.

A prolific writer and speaker, Dr. Anne is passionate about educating her patients about their eye health. “When it comes to our health, little is more important,” she maintains. “No matter how fulfilled we are in our jobs or personal lives, nothing can be appreciated without our health.”

The overflow of information available nowadays has done the opposite of putting our minds at ease. Dr. Negrin’s intention is to give us the answers to questions we didn’t even know to ask. At heart, she is an academic and a teacher and a firm believer that knowledge is power.

Dr. Negrin is also the Director of Ophthalmology at CTrue Vision, with offices in Boro Park, Williamsburg, and now, Monroe.

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PREMIUM, NA

ITALIA

LI

N

A

O

MAG

D

O

RO

EMI

From the fields where flavor reaches new heights comes a juice that redefines refreshment.

Whether you’re savoring it chilled for a burst of vitality, crafting first-class cocktails like a masterful Bloody Mary, or adding a touch of elegance to your recipes, every sip feels like an upgrade to premium taste.

RO

IL POM

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Heart.Works

Drink elevated.

Taste Tuscanini. Know Italy.

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Wellbeing

WALLET WELLNESS

WELL ANSWERED

HAKOL BESEDER

It's Your Marital Health Financial Conversations That Build Connections

In the Golden Puppet Cage Break Free...Together

It's a Joint Venture You're Not Doing This Alone

HAKOL BESEDER

A Happy and Healthy Haven

Have you ever watched a flock of ducks traveling south?

At times one bird gets distracted or flies off course, perhaps even on purpose, but you soon see it straining to catch up with the rest of its buddies. It’s a long flight south and no bird wants to fly it alone.

And why would they? Birds are social beings and given the choice when facing a difficult and tiresome journey, they’d much rather choose to fly with company.

Birds aren’t the only creatures that opt for social connectedness. As a matter of fact, the vast majority of the animal kingdom live in packs, herds, prides, or various other terms that affirm their social nature. Even fish travel in schools and ants live in colonies.

We humans also opt to live in bustling communities where we get to interact with friends. And yet, when we each go home to our own little nests, homemaking is quite a solitary activity. It can certainly be fulfilling and even beautiful, but still, there is an element that can seem daunting and even isolating at times.

This is truer than ever in the dead of winter. January is generally known as the month of the blues, as we settle into the boredom and possible loneliness of everyday home life.

This is where Hakol Beseder’s Homemakers’ Homework comes in.

A Parliament

By Tziri Hershkovitz

The Homemakers’ Homework, accessible through our calendar or free hotline, consist of short daily tasks around the home. We offer tips and suggestions on how to complete the chore list effectively and efficiently. Each task on its own doesn’t seem like much, but cumulatively they add up to wonderful accomplishments.

A Herd

It’s a Joint Venture

Another benefit we hoped to achieve with the Homemakers’ Homework is the feeling of camaraderie, that reassurance that even though you’re involved in homemaking in your own home, there are others doing it too. Just knowing that there are thousands of women around the globe doing the same task on the same day somehow feels less isolating.

There’s comfort in knowing we belong to a group. It’s the “we” vs. “me” mentality. The hotline helps foster that invisible lifeline, connecting perfect strangers across the globe into an awesome collective “we.”

A School This Hakol Beseder program actually started on the hotline, with the humble intention of sharing some simple tips and ideas that came our way. It has since blossomed into a

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There’s comfort in knowing we belong to a group. It’s the “we” vs. “me” mentality. lot more—a fun and free labyrinth of menu lists that may be somewhat confusing to the newcomer.

But because the hotline offers a lot of great features, more than just the Homemakers’ Homework, it would be a wonderful idea to take the time to explore and enjoy.

A Dazzle You’re joining a group of thousands of smart women around the globe who’ve added color to their homemaking. Thought you didn’t know anyone in Australia? South Africa? Well, in a roundabout way you now do. That’s part of how the hotline provides you with a social element to this often-solitary activity.

A Pride Each week we focus on a different area in the home, and each day the task suggested would be something like, “reorganize the cutlery drawer,” or “declutter the nightable.” Though the suggested tasks are small, they allow for incremental successes—which add up to grand results. Each task might be just a little accomplishment, but the end result is huge.

There is also the maintenance component. After falling into the habit of doing these little tasks, you’ll soon find you’re repeating

certain areas—and that is a good thing. After reorganizing all the drawers in a bedroom, for example, it would make sense to feel like you’re already “done”—having taken care of a task so recently. But this is where the opportunity for maintenance comes in. With mere minutes a day, you can keep the areas that are prone to disorganization clutter-free.

This is even more important right after completing an entire area, or right after Pesach, when it’s easy to rest on our laurels. It’s only fair to take comfort and pleasure in what we have achieved, and we should always be proud of our accomplishments. But if a few minutes a day can maintain that feeling of satisfaction and mean we don’t have to face a huge workload again, isn’t it worth it?

A Wisdom Even if you only do the suggested tasks on rare occasions, those singular accomplishments are achievements too. Even if nothing else is accomplished and you do not arrive at a completely reorganized room that week, the redone children’s dresser is still going to make you feel good. That delight you’ll feel each time the drawers are opened is worthwhile on its own, and often the joy and pride you experience (as you open the

drawer again and again…just to smile proudly) is quite effective in getting you to head back to the hotline for another push toward a different little task.

A Leap Finding joy in completing little tasks will come in handy when we start our Eight Week Countdown before Pesach. At Hakol Beseder, we divide the home into eight zones and relegate each zone to another week. In this way, we can designate short, doable tasks for each day. I have no desire to induce anxiety…but the eight weeks leading up to Pesach will commence on Tu B’Shevat. I mention this because everything done in the weeks until then will benefit you later. After all, doing these tasks year-round makes them easier to complete upon redo.

Pesach is almost three months away. In theory, you've got plenty of time before it demands your attention. And if you feel stressed thinking about this beautiful Yom Tov, remember—Hakol Beseder is here to help you with support, encouragement, and helpful advice.

You will not be doing this alone.

A Team The winter winds and chilling cold may have us all huddled up at home, but there is a way to feel less isolated when focused on the mundane humdrum of everyday homemaking—become a part of a larger community that is doing the same. So join in! All humans crave being part of a group. Actually, not only humans; all creatures do.

Well, except platypuses. you’re no platypus.

But

Tziri Hershkovitz is founder of Hakol Beseder and author of the book by the same name. She is passionate in her belief that Hashem designed this beautiful world to be enjoyed. Discover more on the free hotline, 347.772.1188, or visit www.HakolBeseder.org to sign up for the monthly newsletter, purchase the popular book, or register for Tziri’s life-altering workshops. Every woman is more than just a homemaker—and with the right tools and skills, she’ll discover the bliss that awaits.

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SEASONAL STUMPERS

By Draizy Israel

l u f t Frui s Hack Coconut Oil Coconut oil is very versatile and useful in your beauty and personal care routine; you can even try it as a makeup remover. It is also remarkably effective when used as wood furniture polish. Due to its low viscosity, coconut oil can deeply penetrate wood fibers, hydrating and revitalizing dry wood, bringing out the natural grain and shine of the wood, and protecting it from damage.

Banana Banana peels are all the rage. Rubbing the inside of the peel on the face is said to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and even the dark circles under the eyes. Banana peels contain antioxidants like vitamin C, B vitamins, magnesium, and potassium. They also contain lutein, which seem to be the root of their hydrating, brightening, and soothing properties. Additionally, their zinc and lectin content have antibacterial traits that can help treat acne.

Lemon Lemon is an amazing fruit, capable of deodorizing, freshening, and cleaning. It is particularly effective at cleaning copper pans. Simply cut a lemon in half, sprinkle salt onto the cut surface, and then scrub the copper pot with the lemon-salt combination. This will remove tarnish and restore the shine; the salt acts as a mild abrasive while the lemon’s acidity cuts through the tarnish.

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Cucumber

Apple

Cucumbers are surprisingly effective at cleaning steel surfaces by gently removing tarnish and grime, leaving behind a polished shine. The natural acids and compounds within cucumber juice effectively polish and clean stainless steel, resembling a mild abrasive cleaner.

Apples can be used in various ways for skincare due to their rich antioxidant content, natural acids, and hydrating properties. The malic acid acts as a gentle exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells, brighten the complexion, and promote smoother skin. Apple-based face masks are a popular way to nourish and rejuvenate the skin. Apples can be mashed and combined with other ingredients like honey, yogurt, or oatmeal to create a mask that helps brighten the complexion, reduce blemishes, and hydrate the skin.

Try this: Rub a cucumber slice gently over a stainless-steel surface. Wipe clean with a soft cloth and enjoy the polished shine!

Walnut Walnuts can be used to clean and repair minor scratches or blemishes on wood furniture due to the natural oils present in the nut. When the nut is rubbed on the surface, the walnut’s oil and meat fill in the scratch, camouflaging it and making it less noticeable. In essence, the walnut acts as a natural filler and polisher. Just buff afterward with a clean cloth for a beautiful finish.

Grapefruit Grapefruit’s acidity and natural cleaning properties make it an effective bathroom cleaner, capable of tackling grime, soap scum, and even some stains. Grapefruit juice contains citric acid, which has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it a safe and effective disinfectant.

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WELL ANSWERED

Well Asked—Well Answered Your Path to Clarity Begins Here

By Vichna Belsky, BS, CLC

Q

If you see me, you may wonder what kind of problems I could possibly have.

Baruch Hashem, I have a wonderful husband, two adorable toddlers, and a gorgeous house. But the truth is, we can’t afford our lifestyle. My husband is stuck in a dead-end, low-paying job, and he doesn’t seem motivated to look for something better. His parents keep giving us money to get through each month, and that’s where the problem lies.

I suspect that the fact that we’re getting through each month with his parents’ help is a demotivating factor for my husband to try to find a better job. Even worse, the money his parents give us comes with serious strings attached.

When we were looking for a house, his parents insisted on giving us the down payment. Since they were paying, they were heavily involved in the house hunt and basically chose our house for us. It’s bigger than we need right now, and we can barely keep up with the payments.

This is just one example of how they make the decisions, and we have to live with the results. I long for financial freedom. How can we get out of this mess?

- Stuck in a Golden Puppet Cage

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A

How difficult it must be to live in a situation that looks enviable to others yet is painful to you. You are fortunate that while you are struggling, you are still able to recognize the blessings you have. This is truly a beautiful middah.

The Torah teaches us, “Al kein yaazov ish es aviv ve’es imo—Therefore a man should leave his father and his mother, ve’davak be’ishto—and he should cling to his wife” (Bereishis 2:24). In a healthy marriage, the man separates from his parents and creates a new home for himself and his wife.

Of course, an obligation of kibud av v’eim remains, but the man’s primary efforts should now be toward the welfare of his wife and his new family unit.

How that looks will be different for every couple, depending on their circumstances. Age, location, and social expectations play a heavy role. Yet it is important to keep in mind that a marriage is still between two people—the husband and wife—and the in-laws should be outside of that inner circle.

This can become very difficult to manage when the parents are playing the husband’s role of breadwinner. In some fortunate families, the in-laws live by the holy dictum often quoted

by Rabbi Paysach Krohn, “Keep your wallet open and your mouth closed.”

But there’s a reason that Rabbi Krohn makes it part of his mission to spread that idea; if it was already self-evident and widespread, he wouldn’t dedicate so much energy to promoting it.

Sadly, in too many families, an open wallet becomes an open invitation to intrude or even take over.

It sounds like you are facing two different problems here. You are feeling resentful toward your in-laws for

Give him a chance to do what he wants to do— fix things and make you happy.

interfering in your life, and resentful toward your husband for being seemingly ambivalent.

more likely to garner a cooperative conversation than “Why don’t you get a better job?”

The first thing that is important is to strengthen the marital alliance.

Whatever problem you face, when it starts becoming an issue of husband vs. wife, the satan has a field day. He loves causing rifts between couples.

A lack of shalom bayis lessens Hashem’s presence in the world and makes it easier for the satan to cause even more trouble. Make a decision that you will not become the satan’s puppet.

Explain to your husband how you feel and ask him what he thinks might help. Nothing gets a man moving like the prospect of fixing things! Give him a chance to do what he wants to do— fix things and make you happy. You can prepare some ideas in advance and ask him what he thinks of them.

Some resources you may want to contact include Frum.Finance (https:// frum.finance/start), Mesila (Israel 02-5000-475, US 212-784-6780, UK 333-344-1711), Reb Shayala’s Kitchen (845-414-8001) and your local Tomche Shabbos (many branches help with job placement). Prepare a specific list of what is bothering you, and why you feel that way. You may even surprise yourself by discovering that things are not so bad after all.

Begin by reframing the situation so that it is “us vs. the problem” instead of “me vs. you.” When you work together with your husband, the satan is weakened and will have to slink away and try to meddle somewhere else. Once he’s gone, the Shechinah can rest more solidly in your home, bringing berachos to you and your husband and children.

At a time when your husband is calm and relaxed, bring up what is bothering you. Keep the focus on yourself and your feelings, and not on what you think he should or should not be doing. “I feel worried that we will never be financially independent” is much

No matter what happens, keep your eye on the goal—a healthy, happy marriage. Focusing on a solution should be collaborative versus combative. When you keep the satan out and invite Hashem in, wondrous things can start to happen.

Wishing you much strength on your path ahead.

Vichna Belsky, BS, CLC, founder of My Path – Bishvili, is a certified life coach. When she’s not giving neurographic art workshops, you may find her teaching her high school students, substituting in a local elementary school, reading anything that’s printed, writing an essay or poem, planning something special to uplift the women of Project Hope, guiding a parent dealing with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, or singing with a Soul Singers group. She tries to limit the amount of time she spends gardening. Her kids sometimes wonder if her favorite thing is cleaning, but the truth is, she prefers high-quality chocolate. She can be reached at (914) 200-3676 www.MyPathBishvili.com MyPathBishvili@gmail.com

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WALLET WELLNESS

Our financial and mental wellbeing are directly intertwined.

In Wallet Wellness, we bring you practical and realistic financial advice and the menuchas hanefesh that comes along with it.

Financial Conversations That Build Connection

How to turn potentially tense discussions about money into opportunities for deeper understanding and teamwork.

By Baruch Niebloom Sarah and Avi had been married for three years when they encountered their first major disagreement about money.

The issue? Avi wanted to save aggressively for a down payment on a home, while Sarah felt their budget was too tight to cut back on family outings and small luxuries. One evening, over dinner, their discussion turned into a heated argument. Avi felt unappreciated for his financial discipline, and Sarah felt dismissed for wanting to enjoy life in the present. They went to bed upset, wondering how to resolve their differences.

The Challenges of Financial Discussions Conversations about money are often fraught with tension because they touch on deeply held values, fears, and aspirations. In a frum family, financial decisions can feel especially weighty due to the demands of tuition, Yom Tov expenses, and the expectation of hosting guests with warmth and generosity. Yet, avoiding these conversations can lead to resentment, misunderstanding, and stress.

But what if financial discussions could become opportunities for connection rather than conflict? By approaching these talks with empathy and practical strategies, couples can turn even the most challenging conversations into moments of alignment and growth.

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Step 1: Frame the Conversation with Shared Goals Start by identifying shared financial goals. What do you both hope to achieve? Is it saving for a larger home, ensuring your children’s chinuch is funded, or building an emergency fund? By focusing on mutual aspirations, you’re creating a foundation of teamwork rather than opposition.

Practical Tip: Write down three financial goals you both value. Use these as an anchor in your discussions, ensuring your decisions align with your shared priorities.

Step 2: Recognize Emotional Triggers Money is rarely just about numbers; it’s tied to our emotions and past experiences.

Avi’s drive to save might stem from growing up in a home where money was tight, while Sarah’s desire to enjoy small luxuries might reflect a yearning to break free from a childhood of scarcity. Recognizing these emotional triggers can foster compassion.

Practical Tip: Share with your spouse a formative financial memory. Understanding each other’s perspectives can help diffuse tension and build empathy.

Step 3: Set Ground Rules for Discussions To keep financial conversations productive, establish ground rules. Agree to avoid blaming, interrupting, or raising voices.

Instead, approach these talks with curiosity and respect.

Step 6: Schedule Regular Check-Ins

Practical Tip: Use “I” statements instead of “you” accusations. For instance, say, “I feel stressed when I see our credit card bill,” rather than, “You’re spending too much.”

Instead of addressing financial issues only when they arise, set aside time for regular checkins. These meetings can be brief but provide a structured way to review your goals, track progress, and address any concerns before they escalate.

Step 4: Create a Plan Together Collaborative planning ensures both partners feel heard and valued. Avi and Sarah, for instance, could create a budget that balances Avi’s savings goals with Sarah’s desire for occasional treats. By working together, they’re turning a divisive issue into an opportunity for teamwork.

Practical Tip: Use tools like YNAB (You Need a Budget) to track your finances. Seeing your spending and savings visually can help both partners feel more in control.

Step 5: Infuse Spirituality into the Process As frum Yidden, we recognize that parnassah is ultimately from Hashem. Financial discussions can be an opportunity to strengthen bitachon and align our spending with Torah values.

Discuss how your financial decisions can reflect gratitude and trust in Hashem’s provision.

Practical Tip: Consider learning Shaar Habitachon together so you can approach your finances with a shared perspective that is rooted in Torah values.

Practical Tip: Schedule a monthly “money date” to review your finances in a calm, positive setting. When using YNAB, this process becomes more streamlined as it encourages you to save for your goals well in advance, allowing ample time to discuss and implement decisions thoughtfully rather than rushing. Pair it with something enjoyable, like coffee or dessert, to keep it lighthearted.

Conclusion: From Conflict to Connection By reframing financial discussions as opportunities for understanding and collaboration, couples like Avi and Sarah can transform their approach to money. These conversations become more than just about dollars and cents; they become a way to strengthen their partnership and align their values.

So, the next time you sit down to discuss finances, remember: It’s not about winning an argument; it’s about building a bayis ne’eman be’Yisrael. With empathy, structure, and trust in Hashem, your financial conversations can foster deeper connection and harmony.

“Wealth and honor come from You, and You are the ruler of all things.”

- Divrei Hayamim I 29:12

About the Expert Baruch Niebloom, a Baltimore resident and software engineer at Amazon’s AWS, is the founder of frum.finance, a nonprofit focused on advancing financial literacy in the Orthodox Jewish community. Motivated by a passion for empowering families with the tools they need to achieve financial stability, Baruch launched frum.finance to fill the critical need for accessible, unbiased financial guidance.

Funded entirely by donations, frum.finance offers a range of services designed to meet the unique financial needs of the community. These include personalized one-on-one consultations, educational resources tailored to various life stages, and an online platform where families can connect and learn from one another.

Baruch Niebloom can be reached at baruch@frum.finance or via WhatsApp at 240-424-5219

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MIND AND YOU

Brain games can be amazing teachers, helping us learn valuable life skills. Among the benefits, we find that playing games encourages us to trust our gut instincts—that feeling that tells us to take a risk, try something new, or maybe even change our strategy. The entertainment factor and playful environment keep us engaged, but because the stakes aren’t truly high, the games give us a safe space to experiment and discover what works best.

Games like Word Ladder encourage us to think creatively and explore unexpected word combinations. This flexibility helps us approach problems in new ways, trusting our intuition to lead us down unconventional paths.

Every successful play reinforces our confidence in our own judgment.

These small victories build a sense of trust in our ability to make good decisions, even when faced with uncertainty.

Ultimately, by experimenting with different strategies and learning from both successes and failures, we develop a stronger inner compass that guides us in both games and real life.

Every month, Wellspring introduces our readers to another beneficial brain game. If you enjoy this month’s game, you can easily create your own “Ladder” at home any time you wish to play. No tools necessary!

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Memorable Quote “We don’t stop playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing.”

MOUSE

HOME

Word Ladder The goal with Word Ladder is to turn one word into another by changing only one letter at a time. Think of it as a wordy game of hopscotch, where each hop is a single letter swap.

Look at the words at the top and bottom of the ladder. You’ll start by finding a word that is just one letter off from the original. Each consecutive word is one letter off from the previous one. Your goal is to get to the other side of the ladder in the fewest words possible.

HORSE

COLD COZY

For example: if the words were CAT and DOG: Step 1: Change one letter in “CAT” to get a new word (like “HAT”).

CROSS

Step 2: Change one letter in “HAT” to get another word (like “HIT”).

Keep Going! Continue changing one letter at a time until you reach your goal word (“DOG”).

WARM

Answer 1: CAT → HAT → HIT → HOT → HOG → DOG Better solution: CAT → COT → DOT → DOG The Rules:

GLINT

Real Words Only: Each “hop” must be a real word.

Same Length: Your starting and ending words must have the same number of letters.

Minimal Steps: Try to complete the ladder with the fewest steps.

WORDS

Tips and Tricks: Think Outside the Box: Don’t get stuck!

Sometimes taking a detour can lead to a surprising solution.

glint → flint → fling → sling → swing → swine → shine

North or South: Feel free to go from either direction, altering words until they meet.

cross → crops → coops → corps → cords → words

Have Fun! This is a game to enjoy, so don’t worry if it takes a while. The journey is more important than the destination.

cold → cord → card → ward → warm home → come → cope → copy → cozy

Now, get hopping!

mouse → house → horse Answer:

SHINE

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o t t Toas uzz the b

Eat Well

7 7 Fruity Flavor

By Yossi & Malky Levine

88 Winter Wellness

By Esti Asher, MS, RDN, LD

90 Kitchen Cures Teeth Whitening

by Fruits

92 My Table Winter's Missing Nutrients

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Dear Cooks, I’m a believer. I believe good things are coming.

I believe Moshiach is coming. I know he’s coming.

And while I wait, I believe.

I believe that miracles will continue to grace the Jewish nation. That things that seem dark and painful are still for the good. That night brings day and winter brings spring; that the sap will yet rise and bring blessings and fresh growth along with it.

Outside it is dark and cold. The world seems to be folding in on us. But deep in our bones, we know that the best is yet to come. As the lifegiving juices rise up in the trees, so they rise up in each of us, and in our nation as a whole.

What is your special power? What luscious fruits can you bring to the world? No one is a barren tree; even the unscented, tasteless aravah has its time. Can you sing? Can you write? Can you cook or drive or walk or visit? Everyone has abilities and a special role that only they can achieve. Dig deep and find your fruit. Then let it blossom and share it with the world.

Last night, my husband got a call from a neighbor. Their car had skidded on the snow, crashed, and was now immobile. Baruch Hashem, the family was fine, but they needed to get home. They were on their way from Lakewood to Monsey and were only about half an hour into the drive. The phone calls started, and soon arrangements were made. Finally, the police showed up. “I’m not worried about you,” the officer said, “I know your people will take care of you. When we see a Jewish family stuck on the road, we know that their community will step in with food, lodging, and a ride.”

Which part of the family are you? If you can’t give a ride, can you give a smile, a warm word, or a perek of Tehillim? We are all in this together, and collectively we make a beautiful garden.

I remain, awaiting Moshiach and awaiting spring,

k e m E a Aviv WELLSPRING / TEVES 5785

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Fruity Flavors In our everyday lives, when we feel like everything is moving at a pace we can barely keep up with, Tu B’Shevat is a short break in the routine that reminds us to take a deep breath and really see the natural beauty of the world we live in.

I remember the excitement as a child, when we would take a trip to a massive fruit store and search for the most exotic and beautiful fruits. I was awed by the large selection.

We’d fill up a basket and when we got home, we’d put together a beautiful platter.

The Shivas Haminim are an important part of Tu B’Shevat, so I decided to use them and create recipe concepts that are less about cooking with fruit but rather using them to enhance a standard meal.

Whether it’s a beautiful platter of assorted filled dates, a tray of pomegranate halva candy bars, or warm mulled wine with frozen grapes, these are sure to add that special vibe to your Tu B’Shevat meal.

Recipes, styling, and photography by Yossi & Malky Levine

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Pomegranate Pistachio Halva These dairy-free, gluten-free, refined-sugar-free and totally delicious treat is what I call “mouthfuls of the Middle East.” It’s less sweet than store-bought halva, and I like how the pomegranate offsets the honey. I usually cut these into squares or bars, but for special occasions, I like to wrap them with cellophane and twine like little candy bars.

I recently started using rosewater in desserts and I’m loving it! It enhances the flavor, but be careful not to overdo, as it can have quite a perfumed taste.

3 Tbsp coconut oil pinch salt 1 cup tahini ½ cup raw honey 2 Tbsp rosewater (optional) arils from ½ pomegranate 2 Tbsp pistachios, chopped

In a small pot, heat coconut oil and salt. Once melted, add tahini and honey and stir thoroughly. Add rosewater, if using.

Sprinkle in most of the pomegranate arils and pistachios, reserving some for garnishing. Pour mixture into a small (about 5”x7”), lined metal pan and freeze for an hour.

Sprinkle halva with remaining pomegranate and pistachios and freeze for an additional 4 hours.

Once set, use a sharp non-serrated knife to cut it into small candy-sized bars.

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Fruity Mulled Wine This wine's deliciousness aside, what I love most is the delightful smell of fruity, wineinfused aromas that fill the house while I prepare it.

I suggest using a dry red wine, but you can use a semi-dry if you prefer.

2 clementines 12 whole cloves 3 cups dry red wine 3 cups pressed apple juice 1–2 cinnamon sticks 2 star anise 10–20 red grapes, frozen

Stud clementines with cloves and cut each one in half. Place in a large pot. Add wine, apple juice, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.

Bring to a boil and then lower heat to a gentle simmer for 5–10 minutes.

Ladle into glasses and drop in some frozen grapes before serving.

Yield: 4–6 servings

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Assorted Moroccan Dates Enjoy these cute bites as an appetizer or after your meal. Simple, yet elegant, they are not just pretty on your table, but healthy and delicious too.

This is my version but use your imagination to customize the fillings. These are so easy to make, they can be whipped up just five minutes before guests arrive!

20 Medjool dates 8 Tbsp almond butter or peanut butter pomegranate arils walnuts chopped pistachios

Score dates lengthwise and remove pits. Fill cavity with nut butter.

Top with chopped pomegranate arils, walnuts, and chopped pistachios.

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Goat Cheese Stuffed Figs This is one of those dishes that takes just a few minutes to prepare and looks and tastes sensational. I love the sweet and salty combo and these figs combines the two elements perfectly. Whether this gets classified as an appetizer or a dessert is your call.

20 very ripe purple figs, cleaned well 8 oz goat or ricotta cheese 4 Tbsp honey or silan 2 Tbsp chopped pistachios

Remove tip of the figs and cut an ‘X’ on the top. Give the bottom of the fig a slight squeeze so the top opens up. Fill cavity with cheese.

Dip base of fig in honey or silan and then into crushed pistachios.

Spread figs on a platter, drizzle with honey or silan and sprinkle chopped pistachios over them.

Note: Please consult with your rabbinical authority regarding inspecting figs, and all fruits, for insects.

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Marinated Olives and Cheese Board If you’re an olive fan, this one’s for you. Marinating olives takes the flavor to the next level. Make plenty, as they keep fresh for a long time in a sealed container.

I like using a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes for the olives simply because it looks so much more beautiful, and pretty food makes me happy! To make an easy and pretty board, just add some cheese and tomatoes.

2 cups olives of your choice 5 cloves crushed garlic 1/3 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling zest and juice of 1 lemon 2 Tbsp chopped parsley 1 tsp crushed red pepper, plus more for sprinkling 3 plum tomatoes, halved and sliced block of mozzarella cheese, sliced to ¼-inch slices.

Place olives in a large mixing bowl. Add crushed garlic and stir well. Pour in olive oil and lemon juice. Add lemon zest, parsley, and crushed red pepper and mix. Allow flavors to meld for at least 1 hour before serving.

To create the board: Place marinated olives in the center of a dish. Add tomato and cheese slices alternately around the olive dish. Drizzle with additional olive oil and sprinkle with some crushed red pepper flakes.

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TIDBITS

WINTER WELLNESS

Blame it on winter. The cold weather encourages comfort food and that doesn’t easily align with good intentions. We started the winter season with high hopes, but somewhere around our third donut on Chanukah, our willpower apparently shrugged her shoulders and stomped off.

One of the best tips for healthy eating on low-motivation days is to have fruits and vegetables on hand that require little to no prep.

By Esti Asher, MS, RDN, LD

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Sugar Snap Peas

Cherry Tomatoes

Fresh Whole Fruits

These don’t need any fancy prep; just a simple rinse will do. An excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, they can be eaten on their own or dunked in chummus or any dressing or dip.

They have a crispy texture and a unique sweet flavor, serving as a great addition to various salads.

These small, juicy, and sweet tomatoes are bursting with flavor. They come in a variety of sizes and can be small as a grape or as big as a golf ball. They are particularly high in antioxidants and may have skin-protective and anti-cancer properties. However, those who suffer from acid reflux may want to avoid these due to their acidity.

Although it may be obvious, these are definitely worth including on this list. Fresh whole fruits are great to have on hand and require little to no preparation. Simply rinse fruits with edible peels, such as apples, pears, blueberries, or grapes (or wash with a fruit/vegetable soap if you prefer), and enjoy! Easy-to-peel fruits, such as bananas and clementines, are also a great option.

Persian Cucumbers

Baby Bell Peppers

Baby Carrots

These mini cucumbers are both cute and practical. They have less seeds than other varieties of cucumber and are therefore easier to digest. They are crunchy and hydrating and can be eaten on their own or easily sliced into a salad.

Baby bell peppers are nutritionally just like regular sized bell peppers, but they are a smaller and easier-to-eat portion size. They are delicious raw or roasted in the oven with some olive oil and salt. They come in red, orange, and yellow, making for a colorful and pleasing plate or snack bag.

While they may not have the same fresh and sweet flavor as regular sized carrots, baby carrots are a cute, convenient, practical, and healthy “grab and go” snack solution. Carrots are famous for their vitamin A content and benefits to eye health. Simply eat on their own or with a dressing, dip (chummus or guacamole, anyone?), or nut/seed butter.

Esti Asher, MS, RDN, LD, is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Self-Care Enthusiast on a mission to help women reach their ultimate health and wellbeing potential inside and out. She shares credible, clear, and inspiring nutrition information with women via her virtual private practice. To contact Esti with feedback or inquiries regarding her nutritional services, please email her at: esti@estiashernutrition.com or visit estiashernutrition.com.

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KITCHEN CURES

K I T CC HU ER NE S Fruit for Teeth Whitening

by Gitti Feldinger

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Green apples

Strawberries

Oranges

All apples naturally contain malic acid.

This is an additive in many toothpastes because of its sour taste, which increases saliva production.

Naturally, green apples have more malic acid than their sweeter cousins. The simple act of chewing also stimulates saliva production, which is a good thing—saliva helps wash away food debris and bacteria and prevents stains.

Additionally, the crunch of the apple scrubs plaque from teeth and prevents tartar buildup.

Strawberries also contain malic acid, which similarly removes discoloration on teeth. Additionally, they have citric acid, which can give shortterm teeth whitening results. Try mashing up strawberries and applying them to your teeth for five minutes before rinsing and brushing. Not the most potent whitener, but one of the sweeter ones, for sure.

Oranges are effective in removing discoloration from the teeth. The bromelain enzymes found in oranges are known to have whitening properties that help remove stains from teeth. Oranges are also rich in vitamin C, which helps maintain healthy teeth and gums by strengthening connective tissues, supporting collagen, and protecting against gingivitis, cavities, and tooth decay. Use in moderation, though. In excess, the high acidic levels can weaken the enamel.

Pineapples

Watermelon

Raisins

Almonds

Pineapples also contain bromelain, the group of enzymes that break down protein stains. In fact, the pineapple is richest in this powerful antioxidant, with the largest concentration being in the stem, the center of the pineapple. Additionally, pineapples are tart, thereby stimulating the saliva wash. That said, pineapple is high in sugar, so it’s best to eat it in moderation.

Watermelon is also considered good for teeth whitening due to its content of malic acid, which can help remove surface stains from teeth, making them appear brighter. It is also thought that the fibrous texture can act as a mild scrub to remove food particles and stains.

Raisins stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acids and prevents cavities, plaque, and stains.

They also contain plant antioxidants and oleanolic acid, which can prevent cavities and periodontal disease by stopping the growth of oral bacteria.

Almonds, as well as some other nuts and seeds, can help whiten teeth because their coarse texture exfoliates and removes surface stains and plaque buildup. Almonds are also high in calcium, which can strengthen teeth and prevent damage from other foods.

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In the pages of Wellspring, we share expert advice from some of the community’s most popular and competent dietitians and nutritionists.

In this column, you get to see how they practice what they preach in their own kitchens. Pull up a chair at “My Table” and join the chat.

In these colder months, with less sunshine or summer fruits, how can we incorporate more vitamins C and D into our winter dinners?

Shani Taub, CDC My solution for sufficient vitamin intake is serving a selection of colorful vegetables at each dinner.

Vegetables; that’s where it’s at!

Chaya Tziry Retter, RDN, BS, CPT People are always surprised when I tell them that potatoes are a great source of vitamin C. Potatoes have gotten a bad rap mostly due to preparation techniques that often involve lots of oil, i.e., frying.

But a baked or mashed potato is a terrific side dish, offering a variety of vitamins and minerals. Do note that you’ll reap more benefits with the skin on.

As for vitamin D, so many of our basic animal ingredients (e.g., eggs, canned tuna, salmon) are full of vitamin D. Eating a variety of nutritious foods will usually supply you with the DV of vitamins and minerals you need.

Esti Asher, MS, RDN, LD While salmon is more of a treat versus a weekly regular in our house, it is an excellent source of vitamin D and is a dinner protein that (almost) everyone enjoys. As far as vitamin C, we can’t seem to get enough of oranges these days! I also saw a technique for slicing the orange around the core, so that more flesh is exposed and it is easier to eat.

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Heart.Works

he ti !

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“love the texture” -Micah Siva Spaghetti with Green Herbed Zucchini Sauce Find recipe on Kosher.com

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Suri Sprei, Wellness Redefined

Laura Shammah, MS, RDN

We take full advantage of the citrus season that comes to life in the winter and colder months. We have lots of mandarins, clementines, grapefruits, and navel oranges. We also make lemonade with lemons, honey, and water, and add powdered vitamin C for a great immune boost.

In winter, when sunlight exposure is limited, it can be challenging to obtain sufficient vitamin D. I therefore up the amount of mushrooms I cook. I eat pastureraised eggs, wild salmon, and tuna to try and get sufficient intake of vitamin D. In my family, we sprinkle hemp seeds on salads. These not only add vitamin D but protein, fiber, and healthy fat as well. I also take supplements because of my limited sunlight exposure.

Vitamin C is important to consume during the winter because it helps stimulate the immune system, which can help fight colds and the flu. Vitamin C also helps strengthen bones, detoxify the body, maintain skin, and help wounds heal. My family eats pomelos, oranges, kiwis, broccoli, peppers, kale, and believe it or not, potatoes. Yes, potatoes have vitamin C! One medium-sized russet potato (that’s the standard waxy, brown kind) has about 17 mg of vitamin C, or approximately 35 percent of your daily intake.

Most important is to do your best to get as much variety and color as you can. As they say, “Eat the rainbow!”

Dr. Rachael Teichberg Tziri Hershkovitz Gefilte fish in tomato sauce, of course. This family favorite is rich in many vitamins, not only C and D. It has A, which is crucial to help to fight viruses; it’s laden with all the Bs; and it’s also rich in vitamin K, folate, and potassium, among others.

I first tried this recipe many years ago when most of the gefilte fish from Shabbos was left over. I’ve since noticed that while most of my picky eaters skip it at the seudos, they readily devour it as a Sunday dinner.

In a large skillet, I sauté onion slices and garlic, and then add colorful sliced peppers. Sometimes, I add mushrooms for extra flavor. Once the veggies have wilted somewhat, I add a can of tomato sauce and some water. I spice it with simple salt, black pepper, garlic powder, parsley flakes, and a dash of cayenne pepper. Once the tomato sauce starts to simmer, I add the slices of cooked gefilte fish and cook for an additional ten minutes.

Serve hot.

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I like to make orange chicken by baking chicken thighs covered with a slurry of two tablespoons of potato starch mixed well in cold orange juice.

I add fresh orange slices, a dash of nutmeg, and some honey for a great-tasting vitamin C boost.

This recipe can be made similarly for fish, like salmon and trout, and you’ve added some vitamin D–boosting benefits as well!

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Shaindy Oberlander, BS, INHC A good old grapefruit goes a long way.

Grapefruit is a great food to include in a balanced diet. That’s because it’s high in nutrients but low in calories. In fact, it’s one of the lowest-calorie fruits. It provides a decent amount of fiber, in addition to more than 15 beneficial vitamins and minerals. I enjoy cutting a grapefruit in half and then cutting it into little triangular segments. Scoop it out with a spoon and savor the taste. I typically serve grapefruit in the winter as an appetizer to dinner. No need for added sugar there.

Tanya Rosen, MS, CAI, CPT While summer fruits and sunshine are an excellent source of vitamins C and D, there are a plethora of foods that contain those essential vitamins. Plus, the fruits that aren’t typical for the winter months are imported from tropical countries where they do grow.

Nowadays, you can find anything you need, any time, and if you need more of a boost, you can use supplements to complete your daily recommended intake.

Bell peppers, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, chili peppers, kiwi, strawberries, and even sweet potatoes with skin are great sources of vitamin C. Oily fish, like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna, are an excellent source of vitamin D. Also, several foods are fortified with vitamin D, including some breakfast cereals, fat spreads, plant milks, and some orange juices. Some mushrooms are even treated with UV light in order to increase their vitamin D levels.

Here’s my delicious lemon garlic salmon recipe that is packed with both vitamins. Salmon is a great source of vitamin D, and the garlic, lemon, and string beans (green beans) are excellent sources of vitamin C. Lemon Garlic Salmon Ingredients: String beans Lemon, for squeezing and slicing 3–5 garlic cloves Salmon Salt and pepper, to taste Cooking spray

Sheindy Unger, CDC Eating foods rich in vitamin C is essential to staying healthy. You can get plenty of vitamin C from fresh fruits and vegetables, but in the winter, the most common source of vitamin C is from citrus fruits, such as grapefruits, oranges, lemons, and clementines.

Vitamin D levels decrease in the winter because of less exposure to direct sunlight.

The simplest way to take care of this is by taking a supplement. However, if you eat lots of whole, natural foods then supplementing is not a must.

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Instructions: Place string beans on a baking sheet and spray with a bit of oil.

Squeeze some lemon juice over the string beans and sprinkle some salt.

Peel and shred garlic and sprinkle all over.

Spray Pam on salmon with salt and pepper to taste. Place on top of string beans and place lemon slices on top of the salmon.

Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, then broil on high for 5 minutes.

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HOLISTIC

c i t s i l Ho

Emotional Health

By Tziri Hershkovitz Studies show that January can be a tough month emotionally. There’s the dreary weather, coupled with the awareness that we’re heading into the dead of winter. Chanukah is over and the next highlight on the Jewish calendar is almost three months away. But January blues are not a uniquely Jewish phenomenon; they’re a universal issue.

We can’t resolve the world’s problems, so let’s focus on our own lives—so different from the secular world’s—and note that our solutions, too, are our own. Before I offer a four-prong solution, it is worth noting that our emotional state impacts the happiness of the home, so kicking the blues is a gift for the entire family.

Self-Care: Our emotional wellbeing is closely related to our physical health. “Ve’nishmartem me’od le’nafshosechem” means we must be very vigilant about our health. Let’s make sure to get ample sleep, eat nutritious meals, take the necessary supplements, do some simple exercise, and stay hydrated.

Gratitude: Every morning, let’s say Modeh Ani…and mean it. If we allow that feeling of gratitude to wash over us for even one minute, our brains will reward us with oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin— Hashem’s natural uppers. His generosity is unlimited—and that gives us more to be thankful for!

Daylight: They call the blues “SAD,” seasonal affective disorder, commonly blamed on the lack of sunshine. Sunshine might be in shorter supply during the winter—but we still get adequate daylight. Every morning, thank Hashem “Asher nasan lasechvi binah le’havchin bein yom u’vein laylah—Who gave the rooster the wisdom to differentiate between day and night.” Let’s demonstrate our discernment too by opening window shades and maximizing daylight.

This gives us vitamin D and serotonin, improving our moods. It also regulates our melatonin, enabling a restful night’s sleep.

Connect: In the winter, loneliness often gets us down. But in Yiddishkeit, “Kol Yisrael areivim zeh la’zeh,” we are all responsible for each other. Hashem commanded us with the ultimate antidote to depression: doing acts of kindness. Find a chessed organization that speaks to you or make it a point to reach out to your family and friends. You never know who might appreciate that call or visit. Interacting positively and pleasantly with loved ones is a chessed too.

Remember, January blues are temporary but by implementing these ideas and allowing them to become habit, the happiness gained can cheer you up this month—and in the months and years ahead.

Tziri Hershkovitz is founder of Hakol Beseder and author of the book by the same name. She is passionate in her belief that Hashem designed this beautiful world to be enjoyed. Discover more on the free hotline, 347.772.1188, or visit www.HakolBeseder.org to sign up for the monthly newsletter, purchase the popular book, or register for Tziri’s life-altering workshops. Every woman is more than just a homemaker—and with the right tools and skills, she’ll discover the bliss that awaits.

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Physical Health

Spiritual Health

By Adina Mintz, PA-C

Rabbi Yehoshua Belsky, LCMSW

Winter is here, bringing runny noses, crumpled tissues, and unexpected sick days at home. When it comes to family, a cough or cold can spread faster than it takes for your kids to beg to stay home on a snow day.

Rav Yosef Chaim Sonnenfeld once went to fetch a doctor on a Friday night.

When he got to the house, he saw that the doctor was holding a lamp. Rav Yosef Chaim, disturbed to see the chillul Shabbos, requested that the doctor put down the lamp and then asked him, “If you were to divide the body into equal parts, what fraction is the head?”

While we can’t become completely immune to winter illnesses, we can do our part to lower our risk. This winter, try these scientifically proven tips to prevent coughs and colds.

A diet high in fruits, vegetables, and high-quality proteins strengthens the immune system. Prevention is the best medicine, so aim for a year-round diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants. And of course, winter is the perfect time to make vegetable soups and add fruit to your warm breakfast oatmeal.

Staying hydrated keeps the mucous membranes moist, helping the body trap pathogens and stop them from spreading deeper. Fill an eight-cup refillable water bottle at the start of the day and challenge yourself to finish it by the end. Don’t like plain water? Add a squeeze of fresh citrus or frozen fruit for natural flavor and a vitamin C boost.

Handwashing is a simple and effective way to prevent the spread of infections. According to the CDC, regular handwashing can prevent about 30 percent of diarrhea-related illnesses and 20 percent of respiratory infections like the common cold.

Regular exercise improves the immune system’s functioning and lowers the risk of respiratory infections. Try walking after meals, incorporating gentle weight training a few days a week, or finding a 20-minute workout, like dancing, HIIT, or yoga, either online or in-person.

Although the temperatures have dropped, it isn’t too late to start practicing these immune-boosting habits.

With small, consistent changes, you can help yourself and your family stay healthier and spend more time enjoying the weather—rather than feeling under the weather.

Adina Mintz, PA-C, is passionate about helping women feel their best—whatever their stage in life. Adina graduated as a PA from SUNY and received training at the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) and the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M). With over 15 years of medical experience, she believes every woman can live a pain-free, energetic life, and would love to teach them how. Find out more by downloading her free guide “5 Small Changes with a Big Impact On Your Health” at njfunctionalmed.com

The doctor replied, “About one seventh.”

“Yes,” said Rav Sonnenfeld. “Now let me share a mashal with you. One day, the different parts of the body complained to the head that they do all the work, and the head gets all the pleasure.

The head replied, ‘It is true that I get to enjoy beautiful sights, tastes, smells, and sounds. But I am the one who controls all the rest of you. If not for me, you wouldn’t be able to do anything. Of course, I deserve all these privileges!’

“Shabbos is the head of the week,” Rav Sonnenfeld concluded. “Observing Shabbos gives energy and power to the rest of the week. A week without Shabbos is like a body without a head. Only because of Shabbos do the other six days have any meaning at all.”

We are surrounded by six directions.

Forward, backward, right, left, up, and down. Wherever you are, you are the center of the six directions. You, as a tzelem Elokim, have the power to bring meaning and energy to the world around you. Your soul is the center that gives meaning to everything that you do. Just like Shabbos, you are a creation of Hashem, filled with beauty and an important role to accomplish.

No matter what swirls around you, inside you can harness your emunah and bitachon to achieve a feeling of Shabbos.

Be the stillness in the chaos. Remember that Hashem is running the show, and you can be the Shabbos in the center.

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