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Becoming a Mindful Gardener Amidst a World in Chaos

7 min read | Author - Susan Patterson

When an envelope of chaos surrounds your life, it is important to know that your garden can be a place of refreshment, renewal, and hope. It can be a safe place where you can be still and become one with the natural world around you. This is a good thing. We often trip on our thoughts, on fear, and on the what if’s. In the garden, you can be still, content, and soak in the beauty that surrounds you. When you become a mindful gardener, you have arrived at a place that allows you to escape the chaos of the world and just be.

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Trader Joe’s Recalls Hot Honey Mustard Dressing Over Allergen Label Error

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Trader Joe’s has issued a voluntary recall of its Hot Honey Mustard Dressing due to a labeling error that omits allergen warnings for peanuts, soy, sesame, and wheat, according to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). The recall applies to bottles with a “use by” date of 05/27/2025 and SKU number 80152.

This dressing was distributed across 17 states and Washington, D.C., including: Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia.

No allergic reactions or customer complaints have been reported so far, and both Trader Joe’s and its supplier, Fresh Creative Foods, emphasized the recall is a precautionary step. Customers are encouraged to discard the product or return it to any Trader Joe’s for a full refund.

For more information, you can contact Trader Joe’s Customer Relations or Fresh Creative Foods.

“We err on the side of caution,” Trader Joe’s stated. “When there’s any doubt about a product’s safety or quality, we act quickly to remove it from sale.”

Common symptoms of food allergies—especially to peanuts, wheat, soy, or sesame—can include itching, swelling, hives, stomach pain, wheezing, or dizziness. In serious cases, a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis can occur.

If you believe you’ve had a reaction after consuming this product, consult your healthcare provider or an allergist. Individuals with a history of allergies, asthma, or eczema may be at a higher risk.

Not Just for Pancakes: Maple Syrup May Boost Heart and Gut Health

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Maple syrup isn’t just for pancakes anymore. According to a 2024 study in The Journal of Nutrition, replacing refined sugars with real maple syrup may support both heart and gut health. Participants who swapped just 5% of their daily calories from refined sugar to maple syrup saw lower blood pressure, improved blood sugar levels, less visceral fat, and an increase in healthy gut bacteria.

What sets maple syrup apart? Unlike refined sugar, it has a lower glycemic index and retains essential nutrients thanks to minimal processing. Two tablespoons pack nearly half your daily manganese—critical for metabolism and bone health—and 40% of your riboflavin needs, a B vitamin essential for energy production.

But not all syrup is created equal. “Pancake syrup” or “maple-flavored” products are often just high fructose corn syrup with artificial flavoring. To spot the real deal, look for labels that say “100% pure maple syrup.” The ingredient list should only contain pure maple sap. Grade A syrups (Golden, Amber, Dark, Very Dark) come from maple trees—darker ones offering more antioxidants and bolder taste.

Using maple syrup smartly means replacing, not adding. It can sweeten plain yogurt, oatmeal, or your morning coffee. You can also use it in baking—substitute ¾ to 1 cup of maple syrup for every cup of white sugar. For savory dishes, try it as a glaze for salmon or roasted vegetables. Athletes may benefit from maple syrup’s quick carbs, using it in pre-workout meals or natural energy drinks.

In short, maple syrup is more than a sweet topping—it’s a nutrient-rich alternative to refined sugars. Just be sure to use it in moderation and choose the real stuff.

When Should You Really Replace Your Cutting Board? 

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

A good cutting board is the workhorse of any kitchen, but even the best board has its limits. Over time, daily slicing, dicing, and scrubbing can leave behind grooves and damage that may harbor bacteria. According to the USDA, it’s time to replace your cutting board when deep cuts form or it becomes too worn to clean properly. But how long that takes depends a lot on the material.

Plastic boards are lightweight, affordable, and easy on knives—but not built to last forever. Once you see deep grooves or notice tiny bits of plastic flaking off, it’s time to retire it. Bright-colored boards can help you spot wear sooner. As a general rule, replace plastic cutting boards about once a year. Hand-washing helps extend their life, though they can go in the dishwasher when needed.

Wood boards are the MVPs of cutting surfaces—gentle on knives, durable, and repairable. Scratches and nicks? No problem. A quick sanding and a rub of food-grade mineral oil can bring them back to life. But they require care: never run them through the dishwasher. Always hand wash, dry thoroughly, and store upright so air can circulate. With good maintenance, a wooden board can last for decades. Replace it only when it’s deeply grooved or warped beyond use.

The bottom line: No cutting board is forever, but choosing the right material and giving it proper care can extend its life. Keep it clean and dry, and when it’s finally time to let go, consider that wood boards can be composted—making even your kitchen waste a little more sustainable.

Could Silicone Tape Be a Quick Fix for Wrinkles? Here’s What to Know

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Silicone tape, the latest TikTok beauty craze, is being touted as a simple, short-term solution for softening wrinkles. While you absolutely look great just as you are, the idea of smoothing out fine lines with something as basic as tape is definitely intriguing. But does it actually work?

Here’s what we know: Silicone tape is well-documented in the medical world for reducing the appearance of scars. It works by creating a moist, protected environment that can support healing and improve skin texture. Some of those same properties are believed to offer temporary benefits when applied to wrinkles, especially in areas like crow’s feet or forehead lines.

However, there are a few important caveats. First, the science on using silicone tape for wrinkles—not scars—is still very limited. Most of the evidence is anecdotal, and dermatologists agree that any visible improvement tends to be temporary, sometimes lasting only an hour or two after removal.

So how might it work? Experts suggest the tape may help by slightly restricting facial muscle movement (similar to how Botox works) and trapping moisture in the skin, which plumps it up temporarily and makes wrinkles less noticeable.

While it’s not a miracle fix or a replacement for longer-term skincare, silicone tape could be a helpful addition to your routine before an event or photoshoot. Just keep in mind that results won’t last, and more research is needed to understand its full impact.

If you’re curious, look for medical-grade silicone tape, patch-test it first, and use it only as directed. And remember—true skin health starts with good hydration, a clean diet,  organic sun protection, and a consistent skincare routine, not just a roll of tape.

Why Giving Up Paper Towels Is a Smart (and Surprisingly Easy) Move

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Paper towels may be convenient, but they come at a steep environmental cost. The U.S. alone generates nearly 4 million tons of paper towel waste each year—most of it in landfills, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Even brands that use recycled or bamboo paper still rely heavily on water, energy, and raw materials during production. Ditching paper towels or drastically cutting back is a simple but powerful step toward a more sustainable lifestyle.

Beyond the environmental impact, giving up paper towels can also be easier on the wallet. Many households go through multiple rolls per week, with costs adding up quickly. Reusable alternatives—like Swedish dishcloths, microfiber towels, or even old cotton T-shirts—offer a more durable, long-lasting solution. With proper care, these cloths can be used hundreds of times, making them far more economical in the long run.

Hygiene concerns often deter people from switching, but experts say it’s manageable. For most everyday messes, reusable cloths work just as well, if not better. Keeping one roll of paper towels on hand for occasional use is a practical compromise for anything particularly messy- like pet accidents or raw meat cleanup.

Maintaining cleanliness with reusable rags is also simple. They can be tossed into a regular laundry load and washed with cold or hot water, depending on the level of sanitation needed. Storing them in an organized system—such as keeping different types of cloths for various tasks and having a designated laundry bin—makes the transition seamless.

In short, reducing paper towel use is better for the planet, your budget, and your daily routine. With a few small adjustments, anyone can make the swap—and be surprised at just how little they miss the disposables.

Sip Your Way to Better Sleep: 6 Soothing Teas Dietitians Swear By

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Can’t wind down at night? You’re not alone. Luckily, your solution might be as simple as what’s in your cup. Tea—second only to water as the world’s most popular drink-isn’t just cozy, it’s packed with compounds that can help you relax and drift off.

From herbal classics to lesser-known blends, here are six sleep-friendly teas registered dietitians recommend:

1. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is rich in apigenin, which binds to brain receptors to promote calm and reduce anxiety. Sip it about an hour before bed to ease into a restful sleep.

2. Lemon Balm Tea
This citrusy mint family member is shown to improve sleep, especially for those with anxiety or type 2 diabetes. Its rosmarinic acid activates GABA receptors, which slow brain activity and support deep sleep.

3. Green Tea (Low-Caffeine)
While regular green tea contains caffeine, low-caffeine varieties offer L-theanine, an amino acid that calms the mind and reduces stress without making you sleepy mid-day.

4. Passionflower Tea
Struggle with anxiety at bedtime? Passionflower is a natural sedative that boosts GABA levels, making it a go-to for calming a restless mind.

5. Magnolia Bark Tea
 This earthy brew, a staple in traditional Chinese medicine, helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle and ease tension. It’s even been shown to relieve postpartum sleep issues and depression.

6. Tulsi Ashwagandha Tea
 This Ayurvedic powerhouse pairs two calming herbs: tulsi (holy basil) for stress relief and ashwagandha for hormone balance. Together, they create a relaxing bedtime ritual.

Pro Tip: Drink tea at least an hour before bed, and add a little raw honey for a sweet and relaxing treat.

No, Soy Doesn’t Cause Cancer: And 3 More Myths You Can Finally Forget

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Soy gets a bad rap—but it’s time to clear the air. Despite what you’ve heard on TikTok or from that friend who swears soy is “toxic,” the science tells a very different story.

Let’s bust the biggest myths:

Myth #1: Soy Causes Breast Cancer
This fear comes from the fact that soy contains isoflavones, plant compounds that mimic estrogen—kind of. But they’re not the same as human estrogen. Dozens of studies (on actual humans!) show that moderate soy consumption doesn’t increase cancer risk and might even protect against it. Big names like the American Cancer Society and the AICR back this up.

Myth #2: Soy Messes With Male Hormones
Relax, guys. The fear that soy “feminizes” men came from a couple of extreme cases where men consumed unreal amounts of soy. Normal, daily servings? Totally safe. In fact, soy may actually lower your risk for prostate cancer. Bonus!

Myth #3: Soy Blocks Nutrient Absorption
Soy contains phytates, yes—but so do many healthy foods. Cooking, fermenting, or pairing soy with vitamin C-rich foods (like citrus) boosts nutrient absorption. So, go ahead and enjoy that tofu stir-fry with a splash of lime.

Myth #4: All Processed Soy Is Bad
Not all soy is ultra-processed junk. Tofu, tempeh, soy milk, and even some soy-based snacks can be part of a healthy diet. Soy is one of the few complete plant proteins, and the FDA even approves heart-health claims on soy foods.

Unless you’re allergic, soy is a safe, nutritious, and versatile way to power up your meals. So bring on the edamame, tofu scrambles, and soy lattes – you’ve got the green light.

Pumpkin Juice Recalled in 12 States Over Deadly Bacteria Risk—Here’s How to Make Your Own Safely

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

If pumpkin juice is part of your fall flavor lineup, it’s time to check your label. Based in New York, Walker’s Wine Juice LLC has recalled its pumpkin juice after inspections revealed it wasn’t acidic enough to eliminate dangerous bacteria during processing. That missing “kill step” opens the door to Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria that causes botulism—a rare but potentially fatal illness.

Botulism can cause blurred vision, slurred speech, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, paralysis. While no cases have been reported, the juice was distributed across 12 states including New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Illinois.

If you’ve purchased Walker’s pumpkin juice, especially in bulk sizes (2.5- to 275-gallon containers), stop drinking it and contact the company for safe disposal and reimbursement instructions.

But if you still crave that cozy, spiced pumpkin flavor—don’t worry. You can make pumpkin juice at home, and safely, too! Here’s a simple, delicious recipe that adds enough acidity to keep things safe and tasty.

Homemade Spiced Pumpkin Juice Recipe

Delicious and so easy to make!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups pumpkin purée (not pie filling)
  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 1/2 cup orange juice (adds necessary acidity)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine all ingredients and blend until smooth.
  2. Strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for a smoother texture.
  3. Chill and serve over ice, or warm gently for a cozy version.

This version is safe, delicious, and perfect for fall. Skip the risk—sip smart and make your pumpkin juice at home!

5 Things You’re Doing That Are Ruining Your Gut Health (and What to Do Instead)

2 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Your gut is central to digestion, immunity, and even mental well-being. But everyday habits may be quietly harming it. 

Here are five common ways you could damage your gut—and simple steps to protect it.

1. Eating Too Many Processed Foods
Processed foods high in refined sugars and additives can feed harmful gut bacteria while reducing the diversity of beneficial microbes. Over time, this can lead to inflammation and digestive discomfort. To support your gut, shift toward a whole-food diet rich in fiber from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi.

2. Drinking Excess Alcohol
Regular or heavy alcohol consumption can irritate the lining of the gut and upset the microbial balance. This disruption can impair digestion and weaken your immune system. Limiting alcohol intake and opting for non-alcoholic alternatives like herbal teas or kombucha can help your gut recover and thrive.

3. Overusing Antibiotics
Antibiotics are often necessary for fighting infection, but overuse can eliminate beneficial bacteria along with the harmful ones. This may leave your gut vulnerable to imbalance and inflammation. Always take antibiotics only when prescribed and consider using probiotics during and after treatment to help restore your gut flora.

4. Living with Chronic Stress
Ongoing stress affects your mind, alters your gut microbiota, and can damage your digestive lining. This gut-brain connection means managing stress is essential. Incorporate regular stress-reducing practices like walking, mindfulness, breathing exercises, or creative hobbies to support a healthier gut environment.

5. Getting Poor Sleep
Sleep and gut health are deeply connected. Poor sleep can lower microbial diversity and negatively affect digestion and mood. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep per night, and maintain a consistent bedtime routine that limits screen time and encourages relaxation.


Gut health is foundational to overall well-being. By recognizing and replacing these five common habits with healthier alternatives, you can create a more balanced gut microbiome and feel the benefits throughout your body and mind.

Pistachios and Eye Health: A Tasty Way to Protect Your Vision

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Carrots aren’t the only food that supports healthy eyes. A recent study from Tufts University has found that eating just two handfuls of pistachios a day may help preserve vision, particularly by protecting against age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of vision loss in older adults.

Dr. Tammy Scott, the study’s lead author, explains that pistachios are rich in lutein—a plant pigment and antioxidant that helps shield the retina from damage caused by blue and ultraviolet light. “Lutein is like natural sunglasses for your eyes,” she said. The study, supported by the American Pistachio Growers, found that participants who consumed about two ounces of unsalted pistachios daily experienced a measurable increase in macular pigment optical density (MPOD), an indicator of eye health, in just six weeks.

AMD affects nearly 20 million Americans and gradually deteriorates central vision. While dry AMD progresses slowly due to the thinning of the macula and protein buildup, wet AMD is more aggressive, involving abnormal blood vessel growth. Though there’s no cure, early dietary interventions may slow the disease’s progression.

Pistachios are particularly effective because their natural fat content enhances lutein absorption, making them an efficient dietary source. Two daily handfuls can double the average American’s lutein intake to around 1.6 mg.

The benefits extend beyond vision. Lutein is also found in the brain, where it may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation—factors linked to heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline. Pistachios also offer fiber, protein, heart-healthy fats, and nutrients like vitamin B6, potassium, and iron.

Incorporating pistachios into your routine could be a simple, natural way to support your eyes, overall health, and aging.

Meet Susan, your
home gardening guru!

Susan has been nurturing her gardening tips and advice for over 00 years, it’s fair to say she knows her beans. She’ll be sharing her knowledge from tried and tested methods.

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