Tag: nutrition

Sipping My Way Through Surgical Recovery

by mrsfarminsteadical

One week post-op and I am… well, humbled, but back to share the wisdom I’ve gained from my most recent surgical escapade. Now, I wish I could tell you I’ve spent my first week of recovery surrounded by Pinterest-worthy snack trays and perfectly portioned healing meals… but that would be a load of bull ****—which is definitely not my style. I prefer a different part of the bull: the one that feels like a warm hug in a mug—bone broth.

The truth is, my appetite packed its bags and went on vacation without me. I had so many medications I needed to take, and I couldn’t force myself to eat. It turned into a pathophysiology lesson for my daughter, who is now an expert on emesis.

Why Bone Broth Was My Recovery MVP

Beef bone broth isn’t just a cozy sip—it’s a slow-simmered powerhouse. Hours of gentle cooking pull nutrients from the bones and connective tissue, giving you:

  • Collagen & Gelatin: Building blocks for skin, joint, and tissue repair.
  • Amino Acids (like glycine and proline): Essential for healing and maintaining muscle.
  • Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus—straight from the bones.
  • Protein Boost: About 10 grams per serving, which is a win when your appetite is nowhere to be found but your body is running a construction crew inside.

How I Managed It When Eating Felt Impossible

Some days, all I could do was heat it, pour it in a mug, and sip.
Other days, I got fancy and tossed in steamed carrots or potatoes and sprinkled in turmeric and black pepper for an anti-inflammatory nudge (yes, still keeping that golden glow from my last post). For those of you who got bit by the curiosity cat like I did. I am sure you are wondering about the surgery.

It was called an Anterior lumbar interbody fusion laminectomy with multilevel spinal fusion of L5-S1 and vascular assist.

The non-med school version of that is: imagine a pit crew working on your spine from both the front and the back. They scooped out the bad cushions between my vertebrae, made extra wiggle room for my nerves, added a prosthetic disc and then bolted some of the bones together so they heal as one sturdy piece. Oh—and because one wrong move near those big blood highways in your belly could turn me into a crime scene, they brought in a vascular surgeon to safely scoot them out of the way. During the first surgery the vascular surgeon went in through my abdomen and cleared my insides out so the orthopedic surgeon could scoop, wiggle, and replace. During the second surgery the orthopedic surgeon went in through my back and bolted the prosthetic disc to the rest of my spine so it cannot move. I am happy to report my almost 3rd grader is the world’s best nurse and I am doing great and recovering well!

Okay, back to the important stuff…

The Science Meets the Comfort

The research on bone broth as a whole is still catching up, but the nutrients inside it have decades of evidence behind them. Protein helps rebuild tissue, collagen supports connective structures, and minerals keep your systems functioning while you heal. Plus—let’s be honest—the mental lift from something warm, savory, and easy to stomach is its own kind of medicine.

If this recovery taught me anything, it’s that healing isn’t about chasing perfection—it’s about finding what works in your moment. For me, it wasn’t a perfect plate. It was a steaming mug of beef bone broth, reminding me that small, steady steps forward still count.

Cheers!
Mrs Farminsteadical
—where the garden meets the lab coat

Post script for my curiosity kitty cousins 😉: it was a car accident.

The Glow behind the Gold

by mrsfarminsteadical

Well hey there, sunshine! It’s your garden-loving, science-reading, tea-sipping neighbor Mrs Farminsteadical here—and today I want to gush a little about one of my all-time favorite kitchen staples: turmeric.

This golden root has been around for centuries, but lately it’s having a bit of a moment—and for good reason. Let’s peek at what it might offer when used wisely, and how you can work it into your daily life without going full guru mode. Sound good?

 What Exactly Is Turmeric?

Turmeric is the bold, golden-orange root from the Curcuma longa plant—part of the ginger family, and boy does it know how to make an entrance. It’s been used in cooking and traditional practices for ages, but modern science is catching on to what ancient cultures have known all along: this little root might be doing more than just adding color to your curry.

Inside turmeric is a natural compound called curcumin—it’s what gives turmeric its color and most of its studied benefits. But turmeric is more than just one compound—it’s a whole symphony of plant magic.

What Might It Help With?

(This is just information, not medical advice. Always check with a trusted medical provider before adding any supplements or herbs to your routine.)

1. Natural Inflammation Support

Some early studies suggest turmeric may help ease inflammation in the body—especially the kind that sticks around long-term and makes you feel like you’re aging in dog years. This could be helpful for folks dealing with occasional joint stiffness or muscle soreness.

 2. Antioxidant Properties

Turmeric has compounds that may help the body fight off those pesky free radicals (the unstable molecules linked to aging and cell damage). Think of it as giving your body a bit of an internal clean-up crew.

 3. Gut Vibes

Early research is exploring whether turmeric could help support a balanced gut environment. Some scientists think it may help promote good bacteria and a calm, happy belly. Still early days, but promising!

 4. A Nudge for the Heart

Some research points to turmeric possibly helping support healthy cholesterol levels and blood flow. It’s not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle—but it might be one of many tools in the garden shed.

 How to Use It (No Capsules Required)

You don’t have to pop a pill to enjoy turmeric. In fact, I’m a fan of the good old-fashioned food-first approach:

  • Golden Milk – Warm milk (dairy or plant-based) + turmeric + black pepper + honey = cozy in a cup.
  • Stir-Fries & Curries – Toss it in with oil while cooking for a rich, earthy flavor.
  • Smoothie Boost – Just a pinch goes a long way.
  • Turmeric Tea – Mix with hot water, lemon, and a hint of ginger for a grounding brew.

📌 Pro tip: Black pepper helps turmeric absorb better. A little pinch can make a big difference!

⚠️ One Last Note—And It’s Important

Turmeric is a spice, not a miracle. It’s generally safe in food amounts, but supplements can be a different story. Always check with your medical provider before starting a new supplement. This is information, not medical advice.

Turmeric is one of those lovely little things in life that reminds us how powerful plants can be. It’s colorful, comforting, and full of potential. Just remember—no powder or potion replaces good sleep, real food, movement, and proper medical care.

So if you’re curious, ask your provider and start slow. Add a little golden goodness to your meals, and enjoy the ritual of it. As always, keep learning, stay curious, and never skip your checkups.

With warmth,
Mrs Farminsteadical
 —where the garden meets the lab coat