Carissa McAllister Naturopath

03/05/2026

24/04/2026

More evidence that women with PCOS may have higher ovarian reserve, which can translate to prolonged ovarian function and potentially later menopause.

This tracks with many of my PCOS patients who don't achieve fully regular ovulatory cycles until their mid to late 30s.

Through an evolutionary lens, a genetic tendency to PCOS (higher androgens, more follicles, longer cycles) could be (at least in part) a survivor adaptation for later reproduction in a harsh environment.

Essentially, a somewhat delayed reproductive timeline. (Of course, there are lots of other factors in PCOS, and improvement is possible at any age!)

Link: https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aogs.70198

02/04/2026

Source: unknown

15/03/2026

Get an instant mood boost from sparkling water? Scientists might have just figured out why.

According to a new small study, carbonation could boost alertness by activating sensory nerves in the mouth, which signal the trigeminal nerve, brainstem, and prefrontal executive networks.

It’s similar to another study that found the astringent taste of cocoa polyphenols can directly activate the autonomic nervous system.

Part of the benefit is the repeated stimulation with every sip, generating small bursts of trigeminal activity. A bit like the alerting effects of cold water on the face or chewing gum.

Links:
- Drinking sparkling water helps gamers stay mentally sharp for hours: https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260304/Drinking-sparkling-water-helps-gamers-stay-mentally-sharp-for-hours.aspx

- That dry, bitter taste may be waking up your brain: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260206012224.htm

And if you’re worried about sparkling water harming your teeth, know that the amount of carbonic acid is very low. Plain sparkling water is safe for enamel (it's far less acidic than soda or juice).

16/01/2026

If you're in the midst of trying to conceive, it's easy to measure everything by this cycle, this month, or this test result. But fertility isn't a moment in time. It's a system, and systems can be restored and reset.

Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is pause, nurture your body, regulate your nervous system, and create the conditions for your future fertility to thrive, instead of pushing through exhaustion and frustration.

It isn't giving up, it is giving your body the space it needs to work with you again.

If this resonates with you, you're not alone.

Learn more about my Fertility Reset Method at carissamcallister.com.au for support and a reset strategy for you.



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15/01/2026

15/01/2026

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15/01/2026

This homemade kefir ranch dressing recipe is loaded with probiotics. You'll need kefir, dried herbs, and mayonnaise.