Stress, thyroid function, and the brain’s GABA system form a tightly connected feedback loop. Because each system affects the others, disruptions can create a cycle of stress sensitivity, cognitive fog, and emotional imbalance. Understanding this interconnected network allows clinicians and patients to approach symptoms more holistically—focusing on stress regulation, thyroid support, and nervous system balance to restore harmony across the entire neuroendocrine system.
Laura Lewis, MS
Watermelon Slushie
Watermelon is arguably one of summer’s greatest gifts. They’re sweet (without being highly caloric), hydrating, and high in hunger-satiating fiber. They are also an excellent source of vitamin C and potassium. The only drawback to watermelons, really, is that they are so BIG! It can be hard to finish the whole thing before it starts to turn. You may often be caught wondering what to do with leftover watermelon. Well, we have a delicious and health-conscious idea for you: freeze it, blend it, sip it!
Even in all its summer glory, frozen watermelon can be a little bland or over-sweet. It’s so easy to give it a lift with a squeeze of citrus and/or a scoop of vitamin C powder.Why Add Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is a potent water-soluble antioxidant and essential in the human diet as it cannot be synthesized within the body. [1] Vitamin C is required for the production and maintenance of collagen, a necessary element of all connective tissue.* [1] This means the formation and maintenance of cartilage, bones, skin, tendons, and tooth dentin all require a vitamin C-mediated process.* [2]
Vitamin C also supports a healthy inflammatory response and a robust immune system, contributes to the healthy production of neurotransmitters, and aids in the absorption of iron.* [1]
Of all the body’s organs, the adrenal glands accumulate the highest levels of vitamin C. [3] This is because vitamin C is a cofactor for the biosynthesis of the catecholamine neurotransmitters, epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine, as well as adrenal steroidogenesis.* [3]
For those consuming plant-based diets (no animal tissue), vitamin C is the only known dietary constituent that can significantly increase the absorption of non-heme iron. [4] It is important to note, the stimulating influence of ascorbic acid on iron absorption has been demonstrated to be most pronounced when ascorbic acid is consumed with food. [4] But hey, watermelon is food!
Slushie Recipe (serves 2-4)
3 cups of cubed watermelon, frozen
½ tsp Vitamin C Powder (or a squeeze of lime juice)
Splash of cold water (or preferred liquid) to reach desired consistency
Instructions
When you simply can’t eat any more watermelon, cut the remaining fruit into cubes. Put them into a zip-loc bag (or alternative, freezer-safe reusable container) and leave them in the freezer.
After a minimum of 4 hours, (up to several months) take the frozen melon cubes out. Put them in a blender. Turn on the blender and add liquid a splash at a time, just until the slushy is blended to your desired consistency. Then, add the scoop of vitamin C powder and/or lime juice to taste and blend again until fully incorporated.
If the vitamin C makes the slushy too tart for your taste, agave, monk fruit, or honey are good choices of sweeteners that can help you find a balance.
So, now you know what to do with leftover watermelon. Enjoy!
Disclaimer:
The information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult your physician or healthcare practitioner if you have specific questions before instituting any changes in your daily lifestyle including changes in diet, exercise, and supplement use.
Laura Lewis is a clinical researcher and science communicator with a Master of Science degree and a background in nutrition science and integrative health. She brings a decade of experience translating complex clinical data into accessible insights for healthcare practitioners and patients alike.
Laura has contributed to educational programming and strategic content development across the integrative and functional medicine space. Her strengths lie in evidence synthesis, practitioner engagement, and crafting communications that bridge the gap between scientific rigor and real-world application. At ARG, Laura supports clinical content development and educational initiatives that elevate practitioner confidence and product credibility.