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How can people protect their health when access to traditional preventive care feels out of reach?

In this episode, Karen Howard, Executive Director of the Organic & Natural Health Association and author of “Upset is Optional,” says prevention, nutrition, immune resilience, and responsible self-care can help fill the gap — without replacing medical care. Drawing on decades of health policy and consumer advocacy experience, she’ll share practical, evidence-based strategies to help Americans stay well, navigate the wellness marketplace safely, and make informed decisions during uncertain times.
Karen shares four practical, evidence-based strategies to help Americans navigate rising health care costs while protecting their long-term wellness:  

• Smart Self-Care, Not Self-Diagnosis

Karen shares how nutrition, sleep, movement, and stress management can support overall health while recognizing when medical attention is necessary. The goal is to complement care, not substitute it.
  • Choosing Supplements with Confidence
With more people turning to supplements and natural health products, knowing what to trust is essential. Karen discusses how to identify science-backed supplements, why third-party testing and quality manufacturing standards matter, and how to avoid misleading or exaggerated health claims. Education and transparency protect both health and wallets.
   • Foundational Nutrients Many Americans Lack:
Nutrients such as vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium are commonly low in American adults. Karen explains why these nutrients are foundational to immune function, inflammation balance, muscle and nerve health, and overall wellness — and how to test for nutrient deficiencies and how consistent, responsible use can support long-term health, particularly when preventive care access is limited.
   • Trusting Organic and Non-GMO Supplements:
Organic is a federally defined standard that protects from the use of chemical fertilizers and chemicals in agriculture, focusing on the health of the soil. The Non-GMO standard, and its seal, is how consumers can be assured the product contains no GMOs (genetically modified organisms), like glyphosate, often present in processed foods. Karen explains what these labels mean and how to identify supplements that meet these standards.

Karen Howard is the CEO and Executive Director of Organic & Natural Health Association, leading the organization for consumer health advocacy since its inception in 2014. With four decades of experience in healthcare policy, government relations, and organizational leadership, she is a visionary in advancing healthcare initiatives. She is the author of "Upset is Optional: Say Goodbye to Unnecessary Suffering" (March 2024), focusing on strategies to manage stress and anxiety.

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