Newsletter July 2025: Sun-Safe & Summer-Ready
- Dr. Brenda Tapp
- Jul 1
- 6 min read
Dr. Tapp's Thought's
In high school and university, I was that girl. The one who hit the tanning beds. Who laid out in the sun for hours, chasing the “perfect” golden glow. Sunscreen? Forget it. I told myself the fewer things I put on my body, the better. I wore barely any makeup, washed my face with water, and didn’t believe in moisturizer
It worked… my skin felt invincible. Until it didn’t. Hello, late 30s! Now at almost 39, I can see the changes—those little lines, the uneven texture, post-pregnancy melasma, uneven skin tone. Suddenly, I’m learning how to care for my skin from the outside in for the first time in my life. I have a routine now (ugh, I’ll be honest—it’s not my favorite thing; it’s time -consuming), but I’ve come to realize that my skin is worth protecting. It’s been with me through a lot, and it deserves some love and respect. I often look at my husband—five years older than me, with the most beautiful skin—and I can’t help but feel envious. He doesn’t eat as well as I do, and he’s definitely not as hydrated, but somehow his skin is gorgeous. What a jerk. Just kidding—I love him dearly. But there’s one thing he’s always done consistently: protect his skin from the sun. With a strong family history of skin cancer, he’s worn big-brimmed hats and sunscreen always. Admiring his skin has become a powerful reminder—especially now, more than ever.
The biggest difference in our skin isn’t our diet or age—it’s sun protection. And even if I’m a little late to the game, I’m committed to doing better. Because we only get one skin. And it deserves to last a lifetime.
Recipe: Dark Berry & Quinoa Salad (30 minutes - 8 ingredients)
Ingredients:
1/2 cup - Quinoa (dry, uncooked)
1 cup - Strawberries (chopped)
1 cup - Blueberries (chopped)
1 tbsp - Mint Leaves (chopped, optional)
3 tbsps - Balsamic Vinegar
1 1/2 tbsps - Maple Syrup
1 1/2 tsps - Dijon Mustard
1 head - Romaine Hearts
How to make:
Cook the quinoa according to the package directions. When the quinoa is cooked, let it cool.
Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl combine the strawberries, blueberries and mint, if using.
In a jar with a lid, add the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup and dijon mustard and shake until well combined.
To assemble the salad, divide the lettuce between bowls and top with the quinoa and then the berries. Drizzle with the balsamic dressing. Enjoy! For an extra boost of nutrients and flavor, grab your berries and lettuce fresh from the garden (or local market) if you can. Using freshly picked produce not only enhances the taste but also maximizes the vitamin content—plus, there's something deeply satisfying about eating what you've grown yourself.
Bonus: homegrown mint adds an extra refreshing twist! 🌿🍓🥬 Certain foods can help protect the skin from sun damage thanks to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. Carotenoids (like those in tomatoes and carrots), flavonoids (in tea, berries, and citrus), and polyphenols (in green tea and cocoa) have shown the most consistent photoprotective effects when consumed regularly. While beneficial, these foods offer modest protection and should complement—not replace—topical sunscreen use.
This meal plan is for inspiration and educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. If you feel this approach may benefit you, be sure to discuss it with your healthcare provider.
Clinic News
The Sex Ed Every Woman Needs and Deserves
Join Dr. Brenda Tapp, ND and guest Kari Russell for a free, no-filter webinar on what really impacts women’s desire, what you can do about it and so much more!
(This webinar has already happened but you can watch the replay)
Upcoming Webinar:
Relax, Reset, Recharge : Acupuncture + Holistic Tips for Stress Support with Courtney Cartmel, Acupuncturist
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or just a little off lately? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck in stress mode.
You'll learn:
How acupuncture supports stress and emotional well-being
Easy breathwork techniques you can use anytime
Nutrition + lifestyle tips that gently support your body and mind
Whether you're new to acupuncture or just in need of a reset, this is your invitation to slow down, tune in, and recharge.
(This webinar has already happened but you can watch the replay) WATCH THE REPLAY HERE
Here’s the Truth: Sun Safety & Skin Protection
As we enter the sunny summer months, protecting your skin from ultraviolet (UV) damage is more than just a cosmetic concern — it is a crucial part of long-term skin health and overall wellness. UV radiation is a known contributor to premature aging, sunburn, DNA damage, and increased risk of skin cancers, including melanoma
As a naturopathic doctor with an interest in skin health, I emphasize a comprehensive approach to sun safety that goes beyond sunscreen alone. When choosing a sunscreen, look for broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) coverage, SPF 30 or higher, and mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which offer physical protection without disrupting hormones and are safer for more sensitive skin types. Pro tip — look for a tinted mineral sunscreen to help reduce the white cast appearance that is common with mineral sunscreens.
Quick Tips for Sun Protection
Choose a broad-spectrum, mineral-based sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, or after swimming/sweating
Wear UPF-rated clothing and wide-brimmed hats
Use UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes and surrounding skin
Seek shade during peak UV hours (10 AM–3 PM)
Eat antioxidant-rich foods to support skin resilience from the inside out
Check your skin monthly for new or changing spots or mole
Sun damage is cumulative, and protecting your skin now helps prevent future issues. If you have concerns about sun spots, pigmentation, or skin changes, consider booking in for a skin health assessment. Prevention is powerful, and the summer months is the perfect time to start!
If you are looking for more detail on sunscreen and proper sun protection, check out my blog post talking Sunscreen: What you need to know on korimacarthur.com.
Dr. Kori Macarthur, ND
Dispensary Sales
For a limited time, we’re offering up to 60% off select professional-grade supplements. If you’ve been meaning to restock or try something new, this is a great opportunity to do (only while supplies last)
Featured Supplements:
AOR - Inflammation Relief 60 caps
Advanced herbal and antioxidant formula designed to combat inflammation and support joint comfort.
Reg $80
Sale $32
CanPrev - Pain-Pro Formula 120 caps
A synergistic blend of natural ingredients formulated to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and support mobility.
Reg $40
Sale $16
NFH - High-EPA SAP 60 softgels
High-potency Omega-3 (EPA-focused) for cardiovascular, mood, and inflammatory support.
Reg $77
Sale $30.80
NFH - Chromium SAP 60 caps
Supports healthy blood sugar metabolism and insulin function, ideal for those managing glucose levels.
Reg $22
Sale $8.80
Genestra - Melatonin Spray 30ml
A fast-acting, easy-to-use melatonin spray to support restful sleep and help regulate your sleep-wake cycle.
Reg $ 21.75
Sale $ 8.70
New in Millbrook: Canadian Brands We Love!
We’re excited to bring in some beautiful, homegrown wellness brands to our Millbrook shelves:
✨ Wildcrafted Tallow – rich, nourishing skincare from nature
✨ Oneka – herbal body care rooted in sustainability
✨ Hello Joyous – joy-filled wellness products crafted by holistic nutritionists.
Come explore what’s new!
We're Growing in Millbrook – Come Join Us!
Are you a healthcare provider looking for a warm, collaborative space to practice? We're expanding our team at Millbrook Village Apothecary and would love to connect with passionate, like-minded practitioners.
We’re currently welcoming:
Psychotherapists & Counsellors
Osteopaths
Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs)
Chiropractors
Craniosacral Therapists
Acupuncturists
Fascial Stretch Therapists
Nurse Practitioners
Other holistic or allied health professionals
If you’re committed to supporting your community’s wellness and are looking for a beautiful, supportive environment to grow your practice—we’d love to hear from you. Send your resume to: millbrookvillageapothecary@gmail.com
Let’s build something meaningful together in Millbrook.
📍 Visit us at the Millbrook store to check out our new refillables and take the first step toward a cleaner, greener routine. Let’s make sustainability second nature!
Upcoming Clinic Closures:
Monday June 30th Monday August 4th Monday August 25th -September 1st
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