45 Delicious Fall Dinner Ideas

Wendy’s Mature Garden in Pennsylvania, Part 1

Gardening

wrwofficial.com

-

September 8, 2025

Wendy’s Mature Garden in Pennsylvania, Part 1

Happy Monday, GPODers!

Today we’re returning to Wayne, Pennsylvania, to Wendy Quereau’s stunning garden. It has been a little while since we’ve gotten an update on Wendy’s diverse designs, but we’ve enjoyed scenes from her beds and borders several times over the years, and there is always something new to admire (check out some of her previous submissions for a refresher: Beauty from Wendy’s Garden, Wendy’s Pennsylvania Garden, A Garden Full of Favorites, Still Gardening, and more). She’s back to share how her nearly 50-year-old garden continues to evolve and grow.

Many of you have seen my garden of 47 years before. There were only a few large deciduous trees here when we started trying to create a pleasure garden from masses of weeds and poison ivy.

A mature garden like mine presents its own problems. Namely, some plants need to be replaced from decline, and it is necessary to prune, edit here and there, and then prune some more. On the bright side, I well remember impatiently waiting for all the tiny plants to grow, feeling like it would never fill in. Before you know it, you’re part of a jungle-like atmosphere—especially if self-control in garden centers eludes you.

My garden is on one overplanted acre, which contains both sun and shade. Now, in August, my little woodland has gone quiet, and I rely on sun perennials to provide a bit of pizazz to see me through until the blaze of fall color arrives. I always keep low maintenance in mind as I move toward adding shrubs for color and texture to replace the work of perennial and annual flowers.

I have help three days a year. That professional work includes spring cleanup, edging and mulching, summer pruning of shrubs and trees, and carting away masses of leaves in the fall. There are far too many leaves to shred and replace back into the beds. Sacrifices which defy cultural recommendations must be made to be able to continue caring for my garden on my own as I approach age 80. Yikes!

West-facing perennial garden against patio wall: The attempt is to provide interest in all seasons.

‘Pinky Winky’ panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata ‘DVP PINKY’, Zones 3–9) in a frost-free container. It softens the expanse of the bluestone patio floor with little work involved. I cut back all its branches to 12 inches in early March. The shrub is 10 years old with no hardiness issues. Mulch, fertilizer, and keep well-watered. Sun and shade mix here.

This circuitous woodland path shines in April, when drifts of wildflowers are in full bloom. Morphs into a sea of green in summer.

This part of my perennial garden is encouraged to intermingle for a less structured appearance. Here, ‘Bobo’ panicle hydrangea (H. paniculata ‘ILVOBO’, Zones 3–9), pink phlox, and anemone mix together. Not shown, but another good player in this combo is ‘ Little Joe’ Joe Pye weed (Eutrochium dubium ‘Little Joe’, Zones 3–9), which stays at 5 feet in height.

I’m trying for a riverlike drift of ‘Millenium’ allium (Allium ‘Millenium’, Zones 5–8) shown here, combined with the blue-gray of ‘Helen von Stein’ lambs’ ears (Stachys byzantina ‘Helen von Stein’, Zones 4–9), and a Globosa blue spruce (Picea pungens ‘Globosa’, Zones 2–8). The sword-shaped foliage of iris contrasts well with the rounded shape of the allium heads.

From a large mushy mass of spring foliage that thankfully disappears, a disappointing lonely single stalk of surprise lily (Lycoris squamigera, Zones 5–9) emerges in August. It is indeed a surprise, as it appears in one day and lasts for about 10 days.

Wendy shared so many sensational scenes and captivating combinations that I have more photos to share tomorrow. Keep an eye on your inbox so you don’t miss our return to Pennsylvania for installment 2 of Wendy’s garden update.

We want to see YOUR garden!

Have photos to share? We’d love to see your garden, a particular collection of plants you love, or a wonderful garden you had the chance to visit!

To submit, send 5–10 photos to [email protected] along with some information about the plants in the pictures and where you took the photos. We’d love to hear where you are located, how long you’ve been gardening, successes you are proud of, failures you learned from, hopes for the future, favorite plants, or funny stories from your garden.

Have a mobile phone? Tag your photos on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter with #FineGardening!

Do you receive the GPOD by email yet? Sign up here

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

SHOWA Atlas 370B Nitrile Palm Coating Gloves, Black, Medium (Pack of 12 Pairs)

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Lightweight and close-fitting for excellent dexterity. Machine washable. Breathable back of hand to reduce perspiration. Designed for easy movement and continuous wear. Ideal for aerospace, assembly, automotive, construction, final fix, gardening, manufacturing, operating machinery, packaging, precision handling, tiling, warehousing.

The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of Our Most Essential Native Trees

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

The Nature of Oaks reveals what is going on in oak trees month by month, highlighting the seasonal cycles of life, death, and renewal. From woodpeckers who collect and store hundreds of acorns for sustenance to the beauty of jewel caterpillars, Doug Tallamy illuminates and celebrates the wonders that occur right in our own backyards. He also shares practical advice about how to plant and care for an oak, along with information about the best oak species for your area.

Spear & Jackson 4930FZ Razorsharp Telescopic Tree Pruner

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Telescopic tree pruner with SK5 carbon steel blade which stays sharper for longer. Variable length telescopic handle extends up to 92 Inch (2340mm). Lopper for cutting branches up to 1.2″ (30mm). 13 inch (330mm) saw is ideal for cutting thicker branches. Supplied with a long cord and pull-action handle. Part of the Razorsharp Advantage collection, the obvious choice for gardeners who demand and expect precise, powerful performance. “Grow Your Own” Great British Growing 2020 Award Winners.

Got hypertension? Millions of Americans can slash stroke and dementia risk. Here’s how. : Shots

Health

wrwofficial.com

-

September 7, 2025

0

Got hypertension? Millions of Americans can slash stroke and dementia risk. Here’s how. : Shots

J Studios/Getty Images/Digital Vision

By age 40, more than half of Americans have high blood pressure, but many are unaware of it. Hypertension has long been known as the silent killer. When it’s left untreated it can be deadly. And it’s considered a silent threat since most people have no symptoms. You can’t feel the pressure in your blood vessels increasing.

New recommendations from the American Heart Association aim for early treatment, including lifestyle changes and medications, once systolic blood pressure rises above 130/80 mm Hg, (which stands for millimeters of mercury, a measure of pressure). Experts say it’s clear that the sooner you take action, the more you can protect yourself.

Hypertension is a leading cause of heart disease, which is the #1 cause of death of both men and women in the U.S. High blood pressure also increases the risk of kidney disease and dementia. And, research shows that hypertension can lead to damage in small blood vessels in the brain, which is linked to cognitive decline.

“There’s a really enormous preventive health opportunity in treating hypertension earlier,” says Dr. Jordana Cohen, a nephrologist and hypertension specialist at the University of Pennsylvania. She says millions of adults in the U.S. could benefit from medications and lifestyle changes.

“If you catch it early, and treat it early, you can end up with many more years of healthy life expectancy,” Cohen says, pointing to a reduced risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney damage and dementia.

The new guidelines point to decades old advice about the benefits of a low-sodium diet, which can be challenging to follow, given more than half the calories consumed in the U.S. come from ultra-processed foods, which tend to be high in salt.

The new guidelines also emphasize lifestyle strategies including exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, and stress reduction in the form of meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. For people with systolic blood pressure ( the upper number) in the 130s, the recommendation is to start with these diet and lifestyle-related changes, then move to medication if blood pressure doesn’t improve.

For people who hit the risky range of a systolic blood pressure of 140 or higher, which is considered stage 2 hypertension, evidence shows starting on high blood pressure medications is beneficial.

“For all people with a blood pressure over 140/ 90, mm Hg, we recommend beginning with two medications,” Dr. Dan Jones, chair of the guideline writing committee at the Heart Association, told NPR. Research shows one medication alone is often not enough to lower blood pressure to the optimal range, he says.

Jones says even when people are aware they have hypertension, more than half don’t manage to lower it to the normal range, which is 120 /80 mm Hg or lower. Some of the challenges include side effects of the medications and individual differences in how well the medication works, as well an unwillingness to take medicines among some people. In addition, some people struggle the everyday hurdles of making lifestyle changes. Jones points out that healthcare providers also use a risk calculator to estimate a person’s individual risk of heart disease, as part of a treatment plan.

When George Solomon was told about the risks of high blood pressure he was hesitant to take medications. “I felt fine,” he says. Then, at age 63, he had a stroke.

Solomon had retired from a career in law enforcement, and was settling into a new routine, making time for exercise and hobbies, such as splitting wood on his farm. One day in the spring of 2023, he started to feel off.

” I went upstairs to watch TV, and when I sat down in the chair, I couldn’t get back up. I had a sensation that came up across my back,” he recalls and he lost feeling in his arm and leg. An ambulance took him to Duke University Hospital, near his home, where he underwent treatment and rehab for a stroke.

He estimates that he’s now about 80% recovered, and back to exercising and working on his farm. He realizes now that he needs healthy lifestyle habits and medications to prevent another stroke.

” I feel I’m on the right path ,” he says. He’s lost weight and he’s doing more cardio and strength training. He’s sharing his story in hopes it encourages others to take action.

Medications: what’s out there, what’s coming

There are several types of medications used to treat hypertension. They include diuretics that help the body get rid of extra salt and water, ACE inhibitors that help block the production of a hormone called angiotensin II, and help relax the blood vessels and calcium channel blockers that slow down the movement of calcium into cells, which can help lower pressure.

But many people with hypertension don’t get enough reduction with current medications, and University of Pennsylvania’s Cohen says there’s a lot of interest in a new class of medication that works by targeting the hormone aldosterone, which helps regulate fluid and sodium in the body. Too much of the hormone is one cause of high blood pressure. The drug is not yet on the market, but new study results could pave the way for a new treatment option.

“In hypertension, we haven’t seen anything new that’s effective since the nineties,” Cohen says. So another tool in the toolkit for treatment could be beneficial, she says.

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found the aldosterone blocking drug, known as baxdrostat, was effective in lowering blood pressure in many people who have difficulty controlling their hypertension.

The study included about 800 people who, despite taking two or three medications, still had not lowered their blood pressure to the normal range. “What we saw is that after 12 weeks of treatment, there was about a ten point improvement in blood pressure in the patients treated with baxdrostat, over the placebo effect, Dr. Jennifer Brown, a cardiologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, who is one of the researchers behind the study, told NPR. The study was sponsored by drugmaker Astra Zeneca, which plans to share its data with regulatory authorities by the end of the year.

A 10 point drop in systolic blood pressure is linked to about a 20% reduction in the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and also a decreased risk of dementia.

How to Build a Brooder Box for Chicks?

Gardening

wrwofficial.com

-

September 7, 2025

0

You can’t describe the mixed experience of seeing chicks grow into a full-sized hen. They are quick learners, and easily understands their boundaries.

But first few weeks are critical and chicks can’t regulate their own body temperature. As they are vulnerable to drafts and predators, you as a chicken grower need to provide a safe and controlled environment with a brooder box.

A brooder box is essentially a nursery for chicks. It keeps them warm, dry, and secure until they’re feathered out and ready to move into the coop.

You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on a pre-made brooder—building one yourself is simple, cost-effective, and customizable.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: why brooders matter, what materials to use, step-by-step instructions for building one, and how to set it up for happy, healthy chicks.

Why Do You Need a Brooder Box?

A brooder box is the perfect setup for chicks because it gives them the right temperature they need to survive and thrive. Since young chicks can’t regulate their own body heat, the box provides consistent warmth, helping them grow strong during those critical early weeks.

It also shields them from drafts, which can be dangerous for little birds. Even a slight chill can make them weak or sick, so having an enclosed, draft-free space is essential.

Safety is another big reason. A brooder keeps chicks protected from curious pets, pests, and other dangers that could harm them when they’re most vulnerable.

Cleanliness is easier to maintain too. With controlled bedding, food, and water areas, you can manage hygiene better, reducing the risk of disease and keeping the environment fresh.

How to Build a Wooden Brooder Box for Chicks?

Building a wooden brooder box for chicks is an essential project for anyone raising poultry, providing a safe, warm environment where day-old chicks can grow and develop during their most vulnerable first weeks of life.

A well-constructed brooder box serves as a protective nursery that maintains proper temperature, ventilation, and security while being accessible for daily care and cleaning.

What Size Brooder for 20 Chicks?

For 20 chicks, you’ll need enough room for them to move freely without overcrowding. A good rule is ½ square foot per chick for the first couple of weeks. That means around 10 square feet of floor space for 20 chicks.

As they grow, they’ll need more room, so plan to upgrade or expand after 4–6 weeks.

A box around 4 feet by 2.5 feet works well in the beginning, with tall enough sides (at least 18 inches) to keep them from jumping out.

Check this: How to Build a Chicken Coop for 20 Chickens?

Materials Needed:

Wood and Framework:

One sheet of 3/4-inch plywood or OSB board (4×8 feet)
Several pieces of 2×2 inch or 2×3 inch lumber for framing
Wood screws (1¼ to 2½ inches long)
Wood glue (optional for added strength)

Hardware and Ventilation:

1/2-inch hardware cloth for ventilation panels
Hinges and latches for the lid
Staple gun and heavy-duty staples
Small handle for easy lid access

Tools Required:

Circular saw or hand saw
Drill with bits
Screwdriver
Measuring tape
Pencil for marking
Sandpaper for smoothing edges

Optional Additions:

Small furniture wheels/casters for mobility
Chain or rope for securing the lid
Corner brackets for extra reinforcement

How to Set Up and Build the Brooder Box?

Step 1: Plan and Cut Your Materials

Start by measuring and marking all your cuts on the plywood. You’ll need:

Floor: 36″ x 24″
Two long sides: 36″ x 24″ (height)
Two short ends: 24″ x 24″ (height)
Lid: 36″ x 24″

Next, cut your 2×2 lumber. Make four posts (24″ each) for the corners, plus two 36″ and two 24″ pieces for the base frame. Having everything cut and ready before you start makes assembly much easier.

Step 2: Build the Base Frame

Use the 2×2 pieces to build a simple rectangular frame. Connect the corners with screws and double-check that the frame is square by measuring diagonally—both sides should be the same. This base keeps the box sturdy and lifts it slightly off the ground, which helps with insulation.

Step 3: Construct the Box

Attach the plywood floor to the base frame with screws spaced about 6–8 inches apart. Then, stand the four corner posts upright and secure them. These posts will hold the walls and lid in place.

Once they’re solid, screw on the side panels—first the short ends, then the long sides. Make sure everything is lined up square and tight. A bit of wood glue at the joints can add extra strength.

Step 4: Add Ventilation

Chicks need fresh air, so cut hardware cloth to cover part of the lid and a section near the top of one long side. Aim for about 25–30% of wall space as ventilation.

Staple the mesh securely, and cover the sharp edges with thin wood strips so the chicks don’t get hurt. This setup allows airflow but still keeps the brooder safe from drafts and predators.

Step 5: Install the Lid

Attach the lid with 2–3 hinges along one long side. You can keep it as a single piece or split it into two sections for easier access.

Add a latch or lock so the lid stays shut, and a handle for quick opening. If you want to prevent strain on the hinges, attach a small chain or rope so the lid doesn’t swing open too far.

Step 6: Interior Setup and Safety

Line the floor with 2–3 inches of bedding such as pine shavings, straw, or wood chips. Avoid cedar—it’s harmful to chicks.

The bedding should be soft, absorbent, and easy to replace. It also gives the chicks good footing to prevent leg issues. Once the bedding is in, place your feeder, waterer, and heating source, and your brooder is ready to go.

Alternative Brooder Options

While a wooden brooder box is a sturdy and long-lasting choice, you don’t always have to build one from scratch. There are plenty of other options that can work just as well, depending on your budget, space, and how long you plan to keep chicks inside.

One simple option is a large plastic storage bin. These are lightweight, easy to clean, and affordable. Just make sure to drill some ventilation holes near the top or replace part of the lid with wire mesh for airflow.

Another popular choice is a cardboard box. It’s cheap, disposable, and works well for the first couple of weeks. However, it won’t last long—chicks grow fast, and cardboard can get soggy and unhygienic, so it’s best as a short-term solution.

For bigger flocks, some people use kiddie pools or livestock water troughs. These give chicks lots of space to move around, and with a wire cover on top, they’re very secure.

If you prefer something quick and reusable, a dog crate or rabbit hutch lined with bedding also works. Just cover any wide gaps with mesh so chicks can’t slip through.

The key is to choose something safe, warm, and easy to clean. No matter what you use, always make sure it offers enough space, good ventilation, and protection from drafts and predators.

How Big Should Brooder be for 20 chicks?

For 20 chicks, the brooder should give them enough room to move comfortably without being overcrowded. A good rule of thumb is:

First 1–2 weeks: About ½ square foot per chick → around 10 square feet total. A box that’s roughly 4 feet by 2.5 feet will work well at this stage.
By 3–6 weeks: They’ll need closer to 1 square foot per chick → at least 20 square feet total. Something like 5 feet by 4 feet will give them the space they need as they grow.

Also, make sure the sides are at least 18–24 inches tall, since chicks get more adventurous as they age and may try to hop out.

A good plan is to start with a manageable size and then either expand the brooder or transfer them to a larger pen once they feather out.

Conclusion

A good brooder box can mean the difference between thriving chicks and heartbreak. Luckily, you don’t need an expensive setup—just some plywood, hardware cloth, and basic tools.

With warmth, space, safety, and cleanliness in place, raising chicks becomes a joy, and your future hens will have started in the brooder you built yourself.

Khaja Moinuddin, a computer science graduate, finds joy in gardening and homesteading. Join him on this blog as he shares his experiences in homesteading, gardening, and composting

45 Delicious Fall Dinner Ideas

Good Diet

wrwofficial.com

-

September 7, 2025

0

45 Delicious Fall Dinner Ideas

Privacy & Cookies Policy

DIY Natural Foundation Powder

Health

wrwofficial.com

-

September 6, 2025

0

Cocoa powder is great for making (healthier) homemade Nutella, but it’s also great for adding an antioxidant boost to your skincare routine. Many years ago a friend of mine shared that she used cocoa powder as a natural bronzer. I started experimenting with it in makeup and came up with this DIY natural foundation powder.

This foundation powder is similar to the mineral make-up you find on many drugstore shelves. However, it skips some of the ingredients that aren’t so great for our health.

How to Make Foundation Powder

I start with a base of arrowroot powder and zinc oxide. You can use non-gmo cornstarch, but I find arrowroot works better. It offers a nice slip and feels so silky on my skin. Next add cocoa powder for color and a little gold mica for sparkle. I discovered that adding gold mica powder gives it an even smoother texture and makes my skin radiant.

You can also mix in some cinnamon powder for a more brown hue. Be careful here though, since cinnamon powder has volatile oils that are irritating to sensitive skin. It took me a few tries of mixing to get the color correct for my skin tone.

There’s a lot of variation in this recipe… creating homemade makeup is more of an art than a science. Your exact color and base combinations will depend on the amount of coverage and color you want. Zinc oxide as a base will create a makeup very similar to store bought mineral makeups. Adding mica powder will give skin a natural “glow.”

I used a blend of three different natural clay powders in this recipe. They help to control shine, improve blemishes, and balance out the color. You can use what you have, but I would avoid anything with a grey or red tone since these would throw off the color too much.

How to Use Natural Foundation Powder

Since this is a powder I find it usually works best when applied to (fairly) freshly moisturized skin, especially for those with drier skin types. When I was using the oil cleansing method my skin was very hydrated and I had no issues getting this to stick. You may need to apply primer, liquid foundation, lotion, or a thin layer of oil to your face before applying. Just make sure it has a few minutes to absorb or you’ll get streaks!

If you already have oily skin, then this should help balance things out.

You can also use this as a setting or finishing powder for your makeup routine. I store mine in a repurposed glass jar or powder container and use a brush to apply. Most days a quick brush of this is all I need!

DIY Natural Foundation Powder

This simple to make foundation powder can be customized to your exact skin tone.

Active Time5 minutes

Total Time5 minutes

Yield: 4 TBSP

Author: Katie Wells

Combine the zinc oxide, arrowroot powder, and clay in a mixing bowl and gently whisk.
Add the mica and cocoa powder until you get your desired shade. Start with the smaller amount and slowly add more.
Test the powder color on your inner arm and tweak until you get what you like.

Store in a small glass jar with a lid and use a brush to apply.
This will last for at least a year if stored away from direct light and moisture.

A Note On Mica

There’s been some controversy about mica powder and if it’s really natural or safe. Mica is a naturally occurring mineral that’s in the same family as quartz. It can also be made in a lab.

There’s also been some discussion on the ethics behind its sourcing. Mica is often mined in dangerous conditions by child laborers. The mica I use avoids these issues and only sources from places where no child labor is used at any point of the process. If you’d rather not use it though, you’ll still have a great foundation powder without it.

An Even Simpler Version

If you prefer, you can just use arrowroot powder (or kaolin clay), cocoa powder, and a pinch of (optional) cinnamon powder. This will create a great and completely natural foundation. The only downside is it won’t stay as long as a powder with zinc oxide and mica. I feel safe using zinc oxide on my skin (non-nano and uncoated) but if you don’t, try the arrowroot version.

Have you ever made your own makeup before? What’s worked (or hasn’t!) for you so far? Leave a comment and let us know!

Protecting Outdoor Plants from Cold

Gardening

wrwofficial.com

-

September 6, 2025

0

2. Canopy Cover

Along with the roots being susceptible to damage from cold temperatures, the canopy of leaves are frost tender as well.

Freezing temperatures can cause leaves to blacken and die off or the entire canopy may suffer, first turning brown at the crown where the leaves emerge from the stem, then collapsing entirely.

A close up horizontal image of a dracaena plant covered in snow.

If you’re in Zone 9 and expect cold nights, you can protect the foliage by covering it with burlap, an old sheet, or a frost protection blanket.

Avoid using sheets of polyurethane – plastic touching the leaves can transfer cold temperatures and cause even more damage.

I use spun bond frost cover that is available by the linear foot from Arbico Organics.

A square image of a gardener applying frost cloth from a roll in the garden.

Spun Bond Frost Cloth

Gently drape the protective fabric over the canopy, using poles or stakes to prop it up into a tent to keep it from touching the leaves if needed.

Secure the drape to the plant’s stem or supporting stakes with clips or by tying the four corners together.

Now, I have to confess, when my trees grow more than 10 feet tall I don’t cover the canopies.

A close up vertical image of large dracaena plants with fairy lights wrapped around the stems to protect them from cold, with the ocean in the background. — Photo by Lorna Kring.

It’s too much work for this lazy gardener, and should a cold spell kill the crowns, I don’t mind the change.

But the root zone always gets a good mulch so that the basal shoots stay healthy enough to replace what nature takes away – out with the old, in with the new!

A string of small holiday lights spread through the canopy can also produce a little heat to keep it warmer for short periods of time, but only if they’re the old incandescent bulbs – LED bulbs run cool and won’t produce enough heat to make a difference.

Remove canopy covers once the danger of frost has passed.

3. Tie Up Basal Shoots

Mature dracaena plants push up basal shoots each year and the tender new growth may require protection from cold temperatures or snowy buildups.

To protect the root zone of basal shoots, use a thick mulch as outlined above.

A close up vertical image of dracaena plants with their foliage tied together to protect from cold weather. — Photo by Lorna Kring.

To keep the crowns of young shoots healthy over winter, they need to be shielded from build ups of ice or snow, which can flatten the foliage and quickly cause crown rot.

You can tent the foliage with a frost blanket and stakes, or a cloche set over top of the tender shoots is an easy way to keep the crowns covered.

If your dracaena is too big for a cloche, you can gently tie the foliage together to form tight spears.

Tying the foliage together greatly reduces the surface area so snow and ice can’t settle, plus it effectively envelops the crown, shielding it from the cold.

Use garden or kitchen twine to wrap the shoots. Gather the foliage together into manageable bundles, then start wrapping the twine at the bottom.

HHS responds to report about autism and acetaminophen : Shots

Health

wrwofficial.com

-

September 6, 2025

0

HHS responds to report about autism and acetaminophen : Shots

Inna Kot/Getty Images/iStockphoto

The Trump administration is planning to release a report this month that will reportedly link use of the common painkiller acetaminophen (sold under the brand name Tylenol) during pregnancy, as well as certain vitamin deficiencies, to autism spectrum disorder, despite lacking the scientific research to back up such claims.

This is just the latest controversy surrounding the actions of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has repeated unsupported claims about autism in the past, and promised to “get to the bottom” of its cause.

Brain cells, interrupted: How some genes may cause autism, epilepsy and schizophrenia

The agency confirmed it is working on a report, but declined to comment on its conclusions. “Until we release the final report, any claims about its contents are nothing more than speculation,” a spokesperson for HHS emailed in a statement.

There is no credible scientific evidence that acetaminophen causes autism or that leucovorin (a derivative of folic acid) can prevent the disorder, as the HHS report purportedly will suggest, according to reporting by the Wall Street Journal.

In fact, those in the medical community, including the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, said in a statement that acetaminophen is safe and recommended for use in pregnancy, especially to treat fever and pain. “Untreated fever, particularly in the first trimester, increases the risk of miscarriage, birth defects, and premature birth, and untreated pain can lead to maternal depression, anxiety, and high blood pressure,” the society said in its statement.

“It is disingenuous and misleading to boil autism’s causes down to one simple thing,” said Dr. Alycia Halladay, chief science officer at the Autism Science Foundation, in a statement. There are hundreds of genes that are linked to autism, and while there are also thought to be other complex environmental factors, the foundation says “any association between acetaminophen and autism is based on limited, conflicting, and inconsistent science and is premature given the current science.”

A few small studies have suggested an association between fetal exposure to acetaminophen and the subsequent risk of diagnosis with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But the largest study to date, an NIH-funded collaboration between U.S. and Swedish scientists, found no increased risk.

Even before that study was published in 2024, a U.S. District Court had reached a similar conclusion in a product liability case.

Leucovorin, also known as folinic acid, is a form of vitamin B9 (also known as folate) that is used to treat certain types of vitamin B9 deficiency that are usually caused by cancer chemotherapy. It is sometimes prescribed off-label as a treatment for autism, though the evidence that it works is scant.

The use of leucovorin is based on research suggesting that many people with autism have a metabolic difference that could reduce the amount of folate that reaches the brain. Leucovorin appears to offer a way around that metabolic roadblock.

Folate is important for brain and nervous system development, which is why pregnant women are often prescribed supplements that contain folic acid, a synthetic version of folate. Folate deficiency in a mother increases the risk of neural tube defects including spina bifida, but the link to autism is unclear.

The Autism Science Foundation said in its statement that there are four studies suggesting low folate levels in pregnant women could increase the risk of autism, but it said “this science is still in very early stages, and more studies are necessary before a definitive conclusion can be reached.”

Jeanne’s Midsummer Garden in Washington

Gardening

wrwofficial.com

-

September 6, 2025

0

Happy Friday, GPODers!

Amazingly, we started this week in Sammamish, Washington, with Kirk and Martha Painter’s incredible garden transformation (if you missed it, check that post out here: Kirk’s Washington Garden in Panoramas), and we’re ending the week in the very same town but an entirely different garden. We were first introduced to Jeanne’s garden earlier this summer with some fabulous photos of her landscape in spring (Jeanne’s Spring Garden in Washington). Today she is back with a glorious midsummer update.

Here are nine more pictures from my Sammamish, Washington, garden. People think of Washington and they think of rain if they are not from here. What they don’t realize is that we frequently have three months of drought in late summer. At the beginning of August now, we have not had rain for almost two months, which means we are watering with irrigation, sprinklers, and watering cans all over our property. Some plants, like the pulmonaria, which was beautiful this spring, have just dried up. They will come back next spring, however!

Thanks for visiting our garden again! Jeanne Erdahl

First, the arbor that leads to our backyard, which was covered in star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides, Zones 8–10) this spring: It’s right below our bedroom window, so there were many fragrant nights.

The evening sun lit up our 20-foot-tall Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica, Zones 5–9), with just a glimpse of Lake Sammamish in the distance.

We made a climbing tower for several clematis out of two 10-foot pieces of rebar and rusty hoops from old whiskey barrels.

The fourth picture is our paperbark maple (Acer griseum, Zones 4–8) with morning light and All Gold Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘All Gold’, Zones 5–9) at the base.

We have several ligularia on our drain-field mounds. This one has leaves about a foot in diameter, and the plant itself is about 6 feet wide.

Even though the deer graze on it frequently, this hardy fuchsia (Fuchsia magellanica, Zones 5–10) is covered with blooms.

We have several of these ‘Gilt Edge’ elaeagnus (Elaeagnus × ebbingei ‘Gilt Edge’, Zones 7–11) around our property. They are wonderful evergreen shrubs that brighten up our rainy winters.

We love garden phlox (Phlox paniculata, Zones 4–8), which grow well here without getting mildew as they have a habit of doing in some areas. Not only do I love their fragrance, but I’m charmed by the way they wander around the garden. I never know where they will pop up next. This bunch is seen through the seed heads of giant feather grass (Celtica gigantea, Zones 5–8).

They are not only volunteers in this location, but they also appear to be a natural cross between two of our other colors.

Thank you for this incredible update on your garden, Jeanne! Despite the dry conditions you battle in the summer, your garden is still looking lush and lively.

What does summer look like in your area? This week we enjoyed two different gardens that still look sublime surviving through summer’s worst in Washington state, but summer conditions range as widely as our taste in plants. Be sure to share your summer highlights with Garden Photo of the Day! Follow the directions below to submit photos via email, or send me a DM on Instagram: @agirlherdogandtheroad.

We want to see YOUR garden!

Have photos to share? We’d love to see your garden, a particular collection of plants you love, or a wonderful garden you had the chance to visit!

To submit, send 5–10 photos to [email protected] along with some information about the plants in the pictures and where you took the photos. We’d love to hear where you are located, how long you’ve been gardening, successes you are proud of, failures you learned from, hopes for the future, favorite plants, or funny stories from your garden.

Have a mobile phone? Tag your photos on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter with #FineGardening!

Do you receive the GPOD by email yet? Sign up here

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of Our Most Essential Native Trees

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

The Nature of Oaks reveals what is going on in oak trees month by month, highlighting the seasonal cycles of life, death, and renewal. From woodpeckers who collect and store hundreds of acorns for sustenance to the beauty of jewel caterpillars, Doug Tallamy illuminates and celebrates the wonders that occur right in our own backyards. He also shares practical advice about how to plant and care for an oak, along with information about the best oak species for your area.

ARS Telescoping Long Reach Pruner

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Telescopes from 4 to 7′. Cut and Hold (160) Blades. Drop forged blades for unsurpassed long lasting sharpness. Lightweight, 2.3 lbs., for continued use. Perfectly balanced for easy pruning.

Ho-Mi Digger – Korean Triangle Blade

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Versatile Tool: The Easy Digger Korean Triangle Blade Ho Mi Ho-mi is a versatile gardening tool designed for leveling and digging in home and garden settings. Efficient Design: Its unique triangular blade shape allows for easy soil penetration and efficient leveling of garden beds or landscaping areas. Durable Construction: Crafted with sturdy materials, this tool ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
Ergonomic Handle: The comfortable handle provides a secure grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. Compact Size: Its compact design makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and store when not in use.

Our 23 Best Healthy Apple Recipes

Good Diet

wrwofficial.com

-

September 6, 2025

0

Our 23 Best Healthy Apple Recipes

Privacy & Cookies Policy

What Every Parent Should Know About PANDAS Syndrome

Health

wrwofficial.com

-

September 5, 2025

0

What Every Parent Should Know About PANDAS Syndrome

Nope, we’re not talking about cookware and cute black and white bears. PANS and PANDAS syndrome has gotten more attention in recent years. For children with PANDAS parents say it’s like a switch was flipped. All of the sudden their child becomes consumed by anxiety, OCD, tics and compulsions.

This kind of abrupt transformation can be a sign of PANS or PANDAS. In these conditions the immune system and brain become tangled in ways that most parents (and even many doctors) don’t expect.

Though not widely recognized in conventional medicine, these conditions are increasingly being discussed by parents, functional practitioners, and researchers who see their profound effects. It’s estimated that at least every 1 in 200 children has PANDAS, but many cases are likely misdiagnosed as other disorders.

What Are PANS and PANDAS?

PANDAS stands for Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections. It describes a group of sudden-onset symptoms that appear in children after a strep infection.

PANS, or Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome, is broader. It refers to the same kind of abrupt symptoms, but triggered by other causes, such as viral or bacterial infections, environmental toxins, or disruptions in the immune system.

Both conditions involve a misdirected immune response. Instead of focusing solely on fighting the infection, the immune system mistakenly affects the brain, especially areas that regulate behavior and mood. Because children’s brains and immune systems are still developing, they are more vulnerable to this kind of misfire.

Causes and Triggers

For PANDAS, the trigger is usually a strep infection. For PANS, it might be another infection such as Lyme disease, Epstein-Barr virus, or even something environmental like mold exposure. In both cases, the root issue is an immune system under stress. The majority of PANDAS families also report a history of family autoimmune disease.

When the immune system is overwhelmed or misdirected, it can spark inflammation that affects the brain. The result is not a gradual shift in personality, but an abrupt and dramatic change. Parents often describe it as their child becoming a completely different person in a matter of days or even hours.

Recognizing the Symptoms

The hallmark of PANS and PANDAS is sudden onset. A child who was calm and focused one week may suddenly develop obsessions, compulsions, or extreme separation anxiety the next. Other symptoms can include irritability, aggression, motor tics, sleep disturbances, food restrictions, or a sharp decline in school performance.

Because these behaviors overlap with conditions like ADHD, OCD, or autism spectrum disorders, children are often misdiagnosed. Many families report years of frustration as they are told the issues are purely psychological or behavioral. In reality though, the symptoms are being driven by brain inflammation.

Understanding that these behaviors can be immune-driven can be very helpful for parents. It opens the door to different kinds of testing and treatment that address the root cause instead of just managing the outward behaviors.

Can Symptoms Be Prevented or Improved?

The good news is that children can improve, and many do. Early recognition and intervention can make a big difference, but even children who have struggled for years often see relief once the root causes are uncovered.

These conditions highlight the deep connection between the immune system and the brain. By calming inflammation, supporting the body’s healing pathways, and giving the nervous system time to reset, symptoms can improve.

Testing for PANS and PANDAS

One of the most frustrating parts of these conditions is that there’s no single definitive test. Instead, diagnosis usually involves a combination of lab work, medical history, and symptom tracking.

Common Lab Tests for PANDAS

Throat culture or rapid strep test: To check for a current or recent strep infection.
ASO (antistreptolysin O) and anti-DNase B titers: These blood tests measure antibodies to strep and can indicate if the body is reacting strongly to it.
Cunningham Panel: A specialized test that looks at antibodies associated with autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders.
Inflammatory markers: Tests like CRP (C-reactive protein) or ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) can show systemic inflammation.
Other infection panels: Depending on the child’s history, a practitioner may test for Lyme, Epstein-Barr virus, mycoplasma, or mold exposure.

Functional medicine testing helps identify nutrient deficiencies, gut imbalances, or toxin exposures. Since the gut and immune system are so closely linked, uncovering food sensitivities or digestive imbalances can shed light on what’s driving inflammation.

The Role of Observation

Parents are often the best historians. Writing down when symptoms started, what infections the child had recently, and any environmental changes can help practitioners connect the dots. Keeping a simple log of sleep, diet, mood changes, and flare-ups can be invaluable in shaping a care plan.

Natural and Holistic Ways to Support PANDAS

While medical testing and professional guidance are important, there’s a lot families can do at home. Small, steady changes can calm the immune system and help the body heal.

Nutrition for Calming Inflammation

Food is one of the most powerful tools we parents have. An anti-inflammatory approach often makes a noticeable difference. This doesn’t have to mean a highly restrictive diet, but focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods helps reduce the burden on the immune system.

Prioritize healthy fats like avocados, olive oil, and wild-caught fish
Include plenty of colorful vegetables, which provide antioxidants that calm inflammation
Aim for protein at every meal to stabilize blood sugar and support neurotransmitters
Skip the processed foods, added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial dyes, which can all increase inflammation

For some children, addressing food sensitivities, such as gluten or dairy, is key. Some children see improvements after doing an elimination diet so these can also be a helpful tool.

Supporting the Nervous System

PANS and PANDAS flare-ups often leave children stuck in fight-or-flight mode. Simple practices that regulate the nervous system can be very helpful.

Gentle breathing exercises, with slow, deep breaths
Short guided meditations or calming bedtime stories
Sensory tools such as weighted blankets, swings, or soothing music
Time in nature for vitamin D and lower stress hormones. Even better if they play in the dirt!

Even ten minutes a day of intentional relaxation can help shift the nervous system out of constant alarm.

Sleep and Rhythm

Consistent routines matter. A predictable bedtime, avoiding blue light at night, and calming rituals like warm baths or reading can help the body reset. Sleep is when our brain clears inflammation, so prioritizing it is foundational.

Supplements to Consider

We’re all individuals so it’s best to tailor any supplements to your child’s individual needs. That said, these ones are commonly recommended for PANDAS.

All the supplements in the world won’t fix a bad diet, so it’s important to pair them with healthy, whole foods.

Reducing Environmental Triggers

Many children with PANS and PANDAS are sensitive to toxins in their environment. Simple steps can help reduce exposure:

Use air filters to reduce mold, pollen, and chemical exposure indoors
Test the home for mold or other toxins and remediate as needed
Choose clean personal care and cleaning products
Stay hydrated with plenty of filtered water
Spend more time outside in fresh air and natural light

By reducing the body’s overall burden, this allows the immune system to focus on healing instead of always playing defense.

Getting to the Root Cause

Healing from PANS or PANDAS isn’t about finding a quick fix. It’s about peeling back layers to see what’s fueling the immune system’s reaction. For some families, that means addressing hidden strep infections. For others, it’s uncovering mold exposure in the home or resolving gut imbalances.

The process often looks like this:

Test and identify potential triggers
Support detox and digestive health with food and hydration
Calm the nervous system daily with small, consistent practices
Fill in nutrient gaps through food and thoughtful supplementation
Reduce environmental stressors at home.

It’s not about doing everything at once, but taking manageable steps that steadily build resilience. Parents who have walked this path often say the slow, steady approach not only improved symptoms but also made their child stronger overall.

Final Thoughts on PANDAS Syndrome

PANS and PANDAS may sound intimidating, but understanding them can change everything for a struggling child. Mental health and physical health are deeply connected and we can’t address one without the other. A sudden change in behavior or mood can be signs of immune dysregulation and brain inflammation.

As more people become aware of PANDAS and its effect on children, more functional practitioners are stepping up to help. And thankfully, while healing may take time, many children return to themselves once the root causes are addressed. The key is supporting their body by calming inflammation and finding the root cause behind their symptoms.

Has your child ever struggled with PANDAS? What strategies have you found to be helpful? Leave a comment and share below!