By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR There's a question that resonates deeply within the heart of every truly compassionate healthcare provider, a query that cuts through the noise and gets to the core of our mission: Are you working for the patient—or the disease? This simple yet profound question struck me with particular force because, as the solo practitioner behind Pumpkin House Nutrition, I witness its stark relevance every single day. I see it in the tremor of someone admitting

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Each year on April 22nd, Earth Day invites us to pause, reflect, and reimagine how our daily choices ripple outward—beyond our bodies, beyond our homes, into the soil, the sea, and the sky. At Pumpkin House Nutrition, we believe that caring for our planet begins with how we nourish ourselves. Food is not just fuel. It’s a connection—to our roots, our communities, and the natural world that sustains us. When we choose mindfully, we’re not only suppor

Discover how you relate to food—and how to move toward balance. Instructions:   Choose the answer that feels most true for you right now. Be honest—this is for your awareness, not judgment. 1. When you feel hungry, your first thought is: A. “Is it time to eat yet?” B. “Ugh, I shouldn’t be hungry again.” C. “Let me check my schedule.” D. “What sounds good to me right now?” 2. After eating a satisfying meal, you usually feel: A. Guilty or anxious B. Neutral—on to the next thing

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR What if the sweetener in your ‘healthy’ yogurt is doing more harm than good? Sucralose, aka Splenda, is used in everything from protein shakes to ‘guilt-free’ snacks. But mounting evidence suggests it might be fueling your hunger, disrupting your gut, and confusing your metabolism. Let’s break down the science and uncover the not-so-sweet truth. A Sweet Beginning: The History of Sucralose Sucralose was discovered in 1976 by researchers at Queen Eliz

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR Comfort foods are more than just indulgent treats; they are emotional anchors, mood boosters, and tools for self-regulation. Whether it’s mac and cheese, a warm bowl of soup, or a childhood-favorite dessert, these foods offer solace in times of stress, nostalgia, or celebration. But why do we crave them and how can we enjoy them in a way that supports both emotional and physical well-being? This deep dive explores the neuroscience, psychology, and c

By Jennifer Youngren, NDTR As a nutritionist, I often see trends cycling through social media, and lately, I’ve noticed a surge in questions about parasites and how to "de-parasite" the body. Many people associate parasites with rapid weight loss, but there’s more to the story. Some parasites can contribute to chronic inflammation, digestive issues, fatigue, and even weight gain. This article explores how parasites affect the body, common myths and facts, natural anti-parasit