At Pumpkin House Nutrition, I teach a mindful approach to eating—one that respects your body's needs, your lifestyle, and your personal relationship with food. The way we eat is deeply individual, and the idea that there is a one-size-fits-all “right” way to eat is misleading. Diet culture often promotes restrictive eating patterns, which can lead to cycles of deprivation and overconsumption, leaving people feeling frustrated, out of control, and disconnected from their own b

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Good nutrition and quality sleep are deeply intertwined, each playing a crucial role in overall health and well-being. Sleep influences hormonal balance, metabolism, and cognitive function, while dietary choices can either enhance or hinder restorative rest. This guide explores the dynamic relationship between nutrition and sleep and provides actionable strategies for optimizing both, backed by scientific research. The Hormonal Sleep Connection Seve

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Eating disorders have long been categorized as mental illnesses, often reduced to issues of vanity or body image obsession. However, emerging research and a deeper understanding of disordered eating behaviors suggest that these conditions are more accurately described as maladaptive coping mechanisms rather than strictly psychiatric disorders. While mental illness plays a role, eating disorders are frequently a response to stress, trauma, and the ne

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Pumpkin seeds are a great source of plant-based protein to fuel your body and support your health goals. 🎃💪 Protein is one of the three essential macronutrients that our bodies rely on to function optimally. It plays a crucial role in a wide range of physiological processes, including tissue repair, immune defense, and the production of enzymes, hormones, and structural components such as muscles, skin, and hair. While carbohydrates are the body’