In the Kitchen With Sabrina Rudin: Plant Based Comfort for Real Life

Some people open restaurants after culinary school. Sabrina Rudin opened one because she was starving after a long day of teaching snowboarding and couldn’t find the kind of nourishing, plant based meal she actually wanted. So she went home, made it herself, and realized Aspen needed an organic vegetarian café. That moment became Spring Café, now with locations in Aspen and New York City.

Raised on the belief that food is medicine long before it was trendy, Sabrina has built her life around making healthy eating feel generous, satisfying, and real. Her debut cookbook, Healthy with a Side of Happy, brings that philosophy into the home with more than 100 plant based recipes, thoughtful pantry guidance, and the kind of practical tips that make nourishing your family feel joyful, not overwhelming.

We caught up with Sabrina to talk about the recipe that means the most to her, the kitchen tools she swears by, and how she’s stayed true to her values every step of the way.

In the Kitchen With Sabrina Rudin

You were a snowboard instructor before you were a restaurateur. Take us back to that moment in Aspen when you realized, “I need to open this café.” What did you feel was missing? I remember the exact moment, I was riding down the mountain after a full day of a packed group lesson, and I was so hungry. I wanted a big bowl of rice and beans and veggies and tofu, with a healthy dressing, and I knew there was nowhere to order it from. I was tired but I went home and made a big stir fry and it was so satisfying, my neighbor and friend Ali who was also teaching snowboarding came over and had some too and loved it, and that’s when I realized Aspen needed an organic and vegetarian cafe and juice bar. 

Spring Café was inspired by the vegetarian restaurants of your childhood like Angelica Kitchen and Souen. What did those spaces give you that you wanted to recreate in your own way? They gave me a sense of belonging, which is the beautiful thing about food. I knew that I could walk into Angelica’s any time of day and sit down to a meal that was nourishing, healthy, satisfying, and made with love and kindness. I still think of Angelica’s cornbread and dragon bowls almost daily, and I was so grateful to have that space while I was a college student at NYU, it just felt like home. That’s what I hope we achieve with Spring, a place where anyone can walk in, whether it be a student, a young young, a single person or a couple or group of friends, and just get a healthy, nourishing, beautiful meal that is made with their health and well-being in mind. 

When you think about your cooking style today, what’s a throughline from your childhood that still shows up on your menu? Improvisation, my mom never followed a recipe, she just looked at whole ingredients and listened to what she was craving and made something delicious, and a lot of tofu and stewed beans, two superfoods I can’t live without. 

What’s one misconception you think people still have about vegetarian or plant based food? That you can’t get adequate protein, can’t feel full and can’t be nourished. The base of your plate should be vegetarian with a little animal protein on the side if you need it. Beans, grains, prepared properly for optimal digestion and nutrient absorption, and tons of veggies are the healthiest way to eat. 

You share recipes, motherhood, and wellness online. What do you enjoy most about connecting with your audience? Knowing that I get to impact people’s lives in a way that means the most to me, which is through healthy food. Seeing my audience create my recipes and then enjoy them with their families is a feeling I can’t describe. 

If a family wants to make their kitchen “cleaner” but feels overwhelmed, what are three small swaps you always recommend starting with?

+ Go organic wherever you can. Organic isn’t perfect but it means no glyphosate, and other major industrial agricultural chemicals. If you can shop your local farmer’s market even better! 

+ Replace your teflon or non-stick pans with non toxic, non-stick, like Caraway and Greenpan, removing microplastics and PFOAs goes a long way towards whole-body health. 

+ Filter your tap water, tap water is filled with industrial byproducts, fluoride, microplastics and parasites, an under the counter filter removes these toxins, and then you can forgo plastic bottles and fill up reusable water bottles throughout the day, a big win for you and for the environment. 

What’s the one kitchen tool you think is truly worth investing in? A great blender like the stainless steel Vitamix. 

Your debut cookbook, Healthy with a Side of Happy, is coming out this spring. What inspired you to finally put these recipes into a book? I have always wanted to write a book and I knew I would one day. It was a beautiful surprise that my first book was a cookbook, but I poured so much of myself into this book that it also feels like a memoir and a treasure trove of tips and knowledge. I wrote all the headnotes as personal anecdotes and stories, it was a three year process from signing with my wonderful agent to pub day, and the most incredible journey. 

Which recipe in the book is your favorite comfort food, and which one is your favorite crowd pleaser? Comfort food is easily my mom’s vegetarian lasagne, crowd pleaser is the feel good nachos! 

What’s a small kitchen tip that makes a big difference? Wash and prep your produce at the beginning of the week, dry thoroughly and store in re-usable produce bags, I have a whole how-to in my book! This will ensure you eat enough vegetables during the week, make meal time easier and help you fuel up on fiber!!! 

Are there three pantry staples you always keep stocked no matter what? Tamari and Coconut milk. 

What are you most proud of when you look at your journey so far?  I’m most proud that no matter how many times I heard the word “no” or “that’s a terrible idea” or “get a real job” I kept going. My path has been unconventional for sure, but it has also led me to a life I feel deeply grateful to lead each day, a family I love and treasure and a career that while challenging and intense, fills me with a sense of purpose and feels more like a JOY than a JOB. And I’m proud that through it all I’ve stayed true to myself, my mission and my values, that doesn’t always mean the quickest and fastest growth, but it does mean that the wins feel even sweeter and more meaningful because I didn't sacrifice my principles to get there.

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How to Choose the Best Collagen Supplement, According to a Dietitian

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Collagen has quietly taken over the supplement aisle. It’s in your coffee, your smoothies, and for many of us, it’s already part of the routine.

But just because it’s everywhere doesn’t mean every option is created with the same level of intention.

Hydrolyzed vs peptides, marine vs bovine, powders vs gummies, labels stacked with claims that all sound equally convincing. The category has expanded quickly, and with that comes a wide range in quality, sourcing, and formulation.

As Erin Ogden, MDA, RDN, LDN, dietitian nutritionist at Ancient + Brave, explains, not all collagen is created equal and supplements are regulated very differently than medications. Which means the responsibility often falls on brands to do things right and on consumers to know what actually matters.

So how do you choose a collagen supplement that’s actually worth adding to your routine?

We asked a dietitian who looks at this through a clinical and formulation lens every day.

What Actually Matters When Choosing a Collagen Supplement

When someone walks into a store or scrolls online looking for collagen, the options are overwhelming. What’s the first thing you tell people to look for so they don’t waste their money? Just like all products in the wellness market, not all collagen is created equal. Finding a high quality supplement is important as supplements are regulated differently than medications. Supplement companies are responsible for using research to guide their formulations, adhering to good manufacturing practices, and selecting effective ingredient forms and dosages. While some companies meet these standards well, others fall short.

With collagen, it’s important to look for “hydrolyzed” collagen peptides. This simply means it is broken down into smaller chains of amino acids that we can absorb more readily. Although collagen supplements differ in ingredients and collagen type, a product that contains type I collagen will cover the basis for most people as this is the most abundant type of collagen in the body. 

Collagen has become one of the most talked about supplements in wellness. From a dietitian’s perspective, who actually benefits from taking collagen and who probably doesn’t need it? When we reach our twenties, collagen production starts to naturally decline. As well, many of us don’t eat the type of nose-to-tail diet of generations past which typically provided rich sources of collagen. This means we may lack the collagen specific amino acids like proline, glycine and hydroxyproline needed to build collagen naturally. For those who do prioritize organ meats or skin-on, bone-in meats in their diet, supplementation may not be necessary. But for those who don’t, supplementing with collagen can be an easy and convenient way to fill in those gaps. 

Most people associate collagen with skin and beauty. What are some of the less obvious ways collagen supports the body that people might not realize? Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, and it isn’t just found in our skin. This key protein is a vital component of our connective tissue, the most widely distributed tissue in the body. It is what supports and strengthens other body tissues, as well as insulating and protecting our organs. It’s found everywhere in the human body and most abundantly in our ligaments, bones, tendons, joints, cartilage, skin, gut lining, blood vessels and even our hair, nails and teeth.

Sourcing is a big conversation in supplements. How much should people care about where their collagen comes from, and what should they look for when it comes to sourcing? Absolutely. Sourcing is a main point of difference between supplement brands and can impact the quality, safety and sustainability of ingredients.  

With collagen, it is important to watch out for products where collagen comes from low-quality animal or marine sources with poor farming practices. For marine collagen, look for “wild caught” and “MSC-certified” to ensure quality. Both are true of Ancient and Brave’s Wild Collagen.  For bovine, ensuring collagen is sourced from the hide and from EU-based cattle is a plus, like Ancient + Brave’s True Collagen, as EU cattle are predominantly grass-fed and have strict laws on the use of hormones, antibiotics, pesticides, and other toxins. 

A lot of labels say things like “collagen peptides,” “hydrolyzed collagen,” or “multi collagen.” What do those terms actually mean, and which ones should people pay attention to? “Collagen peptides” and “hydrolyzed collagen” refers to the same thing which simply means collagen that has been broken down into smaller fragments that your body can absorb more effectively. “Multi collagen” in supplements refers to a product that contains more than one type of collagen, usually a mix of the main types of collagen found in the body. It’s true that collagen supplements differ in collagen type, however, a collagen that contains “hydrolyzed collagen peptides” is what you want to look for because the collagen has essentially been predigested making it easy for our bodies to utilize. 

There are different types of collagen, like Type I, II, and III. Do those distinctions actually matter for someone choosing a supplement, or is that mostly marketing? Yes, the human body contains over 28 different types of collagen. Understanding these distinctions as a consumer is important and can help you make thoughtful choices regarding collagen type for your health goals and better understand what marketing claims really mean. 

For example, type I collagen is the most abundant type of collagen found in the body and research points to its use for whole body health, as it plays a role in nearly all connective tissues. Whereas, type II collagen is a main component of joint cartilage and can aid in joint health and comfort more specifically. 

Collagen supplements can come from cows, fish, or chicken. From a nutrition perspective, do these different sources affect how collagen works in the body? Collagen type-specific differences matter mostly for health goals and dietary preference. Bovine (cow) and marine (fish) sources both provide type I collagen, whereas, chicken provides type II collagen. Type I collagen supports broader, whole body health and type II from chicken supports joint comfort more specifically. 

When you flip over a collagen supplement and read the ingredient list, what are a few green flags that signal a high quality product? One of the easiest distinctions is looking for “hydrolyzed collagen peptides” as opposed to collagen in its native form. This simply means that the collagen has been broken down into smaller fragments that are more easily absorbed by the body. 

Second, check for evidence of third-party testing. This is sometimes listed on the label, but if not, quickly check the company’s website as it is sometimes listed there instead. Third-party testing means a company has invested in an independent laboratory to verify that their products contain what they say they contain. 

Finally, scan over the ingredient list and look for the absence of artificial flavors, sugars and fillers as they are not needed and can sometimes impact gut health. 

People often ask if collagen actually gets absorbed or if the body just breaks it down like any other protein. What does the science say about how collagen works once we consume it? Historically, the hypothesis was that collagen supplements were completely broken down into individual amino acids in the gut before entering the bloodstream. But new research shows that some small collagen peptides can be absorbed intact as well.

Our bodies naturally make collagen using special cells called fibroblasts, which need the right nutrients, like amino acids and vitamin C, to do their job. Collagen supplements are thought to help in two ways: first, by giving your body the building blocks it needs to produce collagen, and second, by sending signals to your cells to encourage the production of collagen.

If someone starts taking collagen today, how long would it realistically take before they might notice any benefits? With collagen, effective dosing and consistency over time is key. While some people notice early changes in skin hydration, joint discomfort and nail strength, within 3-6 months many people observe more noticeable benefits. 

There are powders, capsules, drinks, and even collagen gummies now. Is one format better than another, or does it mostly come down to personal preference? Bottom line, choosing a format you like and can be consistent with is key to experiencing the benefits of collagen supplementation. However, delivery format does impact dose and formulation, so a few considerations can help guide your decision.

First, taking the recommended dose of collagen based on research is important to seeing benefits. Some formats, like gummies or capsules, simply may not provide enough per serving, unless you take several. Second, to package the collagen in those formats, it sometimes requires the use of fillers, additives and sugars. Oftentimes, a powder format, like Ancient + Brave’s collagen, is most practical and convenient for getting an effective dose and incorporating it into your daily routine, without the need for fillers and additives.

When you personally recommend a collagen supplement, what qualities make you feel confident saying “this one is actually worth it”? When it comes to collagen, or any supplement for that matter, sifting through the hype and the trendy headlines and actually looking into a brand and their practices can help you best determine what is worth it when it comes to your needs and health goals.

Collagen format, sourcing, minimal ingredients and third-party testing are all important determinants for me when it comes to selecting a collagen supplement that is worth it. 

When evaluating collagen supplements professionally, what are some formulation details you pay attention to that most consumers might not even think about? How does Ancient + Brave approach those decisions? With collagen in particular, bioavailability, sourcing, and third party testing are essential considerations for me, as well as, effective dosing in a format that people can be consistent with. 

Ancient + Brave takes a thoughtful and thorough approach to formulation, carefully considering every step from ideation and sourcing to testing and marketing. Scientific evidence guides ingredient selection and production formulation, while trust and transparency guides their marketing approach. For consumers, this is important because supplements vary widely. A brand that demonstrates this kind of commitment can be hard to find, but it can truly impact the quality and effectiveness of the supplement.

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What We’re Actually Packing for Coachella (Beyond the Outfits)

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Coachella week one is here, and while the outfits are doing the most, it’s everything else in your bag that quietly determines how the weekend actually goes. Because the reality is, between the sun, dust, late nights, and questionable sleep, your body will start negotiating with you by day two.

This is what we’re packing to stay glowing, hydrated, and functioning like semi put together humans from first set to final song. Also, do not forget a scarf that doubles as a face covering. You will understand why very quickly.

Polite Society Cabana Club Cocoa Caviar
This is your shortcut to looking like you’ve been in the sun in a good way, not a dehydrated way.

It’s a serum with encapsulated bronzing pigments that actually burst as you blend it in, so you get a really even, natural looking warmth instead of anything streaky or heavy.

You can throw it on with your fingers, mix it into moisturizer, or layer it depending on how much glow you want. It’s low effort, and in that lighting, it just hits. SHOP HERE

Typology Glow Drops T31
This is more of that clean, glassy lit from within glow. It’s lightweight, slightly pearlescent, and designed to be mixed into your moisturizer or worn on its own, so your skin just looks brighter and more awake without looking like you added anything.

It also has vitamin C and aloe in it, so it’s doing a bit of actual skin work while you’re wearing it, which matters when your skin is dealing with sun, heat, and everything else.

This is the one you reach for when you want to look fresh, not made up. It catches the light in a really subtle way, especially outdoors, which is exactly where you’ll be all day. SHOP HERE

Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Spray Duo
This is survival mode in a bottle. The sun, sweat, dirt, and everything floating around the desert can easily throw your skin off, and this keeps things calm and under control.
You’ll end up reaching for it constantly. It’s one of those products you don’t realize you need until you really need it. SHOP HERE

DedCool Milk Mineral Milk
This smells like you just got back from a beach day. It’s that clean, skin-like musk, but with a slightly salty, sun-warmed feel that reads very summer without being overly “beachy.” Nothing sharp, nothing sweet, just that effortless “you smell good” energy that somehow works even better in the heat.

Perfect for Coachella because it doesn’t compete with anything. It just sits on the skin and gets better as the day goes on. SHOP HERE

LoveShackFancy Sweetheart Eau de Parfum
For when you want something a little brighter and more playful. This one leans fruity, soft, and a little flirty, which just works for golden hour and everything that follows.

It lingers in that light, pretty way that feels very Coachella without trying too hard. SHOP HERE

T3 Aire 360
This is the tool you bring when you don’t want to think about your hair all weekend.
It dries, smooths, curls, and adds volume using air and ceramic attachments, so you can get everything done with one tool instead of packing three.

You can give yourself a quick blowout, add loose waves, or just clean things up before heading out, and it actually holds. That’s the key. It’s not just styling, it’s setting your hair up so it lasts through heat, crowds, and whatever the day turns into. SHOP HERE

Solara Suncare Good Karma Body Oil SPF 30
This is for when you want your skin to look good in the sun, not just be protected from it.
It’s a mineral SPF, so you’re getting real broad spectrum protection with non nano zinc, but the texture is what makes it. It goes on like a dry oil, absorbs fast, and leaves your skin looking glowy and hydrated instead of chalky or greasy.

It’s also packed with things like squalane, ginseng, and ginger root, which help keep your skin from drying out or getting irritated after hours in the heat. SHOP HERE

Naked Sundays Hydrating Glow Mist SPF50
This is the one that lives in your bag all day.

You’re supposed to be reapplying SPF constantly at Coachella, but realistically, no one is washing their face and starting over in the middle of the day. This is the workaround. It’s a super fine mist you spray right over everything and you’re good.

It doesn’t leave a white cast, doesn’t feel greasy, and somehow doesn’t mess up your makeup, which is really the whole point. You just spray and keep going.

This is the one you actually end up using, which is what matters. SHOP HERE

The Absorption Company Essentials Stack
Coachella is fun until your energy crashes, your mood dips, and you realize sleep is… optional at best.

This is what we’re bringing to keep things balanced without overthinking it. It covers everything from energy to calm to recovery to sleep, which is exactly what you need when your schedule is all over the place.

Basically, it helps you keep up with the weekend instead of recovering from it the entire time. SHOP HERE

Touchland Hydrating Hand Sanitizer Spray
You will want this. Trust.

It smells good, feels good, and doesn’t dry your hands out, so you actually use it. Which is important considering everything you’re touching all weekend. While you’re at it, don’t forget to pack some hand wipes as well. SHOP HERE

Ilia Overglaze Hydrating Lip Gloss
By day two, everything in your bag needs to be easy, and this is one of those things you’ll keep reaching for without thinking. It gives just enough shine to make you look a little more alive, even when you’re not.

No stickiness, no mirror needed, and it somehow holds up through heat, drinks, and everything else the day throws at you. One swipe and you’re back in the game. SHOP HERE

Tatcha Luminous Deep Hydration Lifting Mask
This is for when you get back, look in the mirror, and need a reset.

It brings your skin back to life fast. Hydrated, plump, and like you’ve been making better decisions than you actually have. SHOP HERE

The Skinny Confidential Ice Roller
Morning after essential.

Depuffs, wakes you up, and makes you look like you got more sleep than you did. Keep it cold and it will do the heavy lifting for you. SHOP HERE

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The At-Home Devices That Are Replacing Our Facials, Saunas, and Recovery Treatments

There was a time when my calendar and my bank account were both deeply committed to wellness. A monthly facial membership. A standing reservation at a red light and sauna studio. An expensive gym I had to justify going to.

And honestly, I loved every second of it. The rituals, the results, the feeling of doing something good for myself.

But over time… it added up. Fast.

So over the past few years, I’ve been testing. Trying. Swapping. Looking for ways to recreate some of those treatments at home without sacrificing results.

And while there are absolutely some things that can’t be replaced, think medical-grade lasers and in-clinic treatments, there’s a surprising amount that can.

What I’ve found is that having these tools at home doesn’t just save money, it makes consistency effortless. And consistency, more than anything, is what actually delivers results.

Here’s what officially replaced some of my most expensive monthly memberships. And if you’ve been thinking about investing in any of these, consider this your sign. BON CHARGE is currently running 25% off sitewide from April 2nd to April 8th with its Recharge Sale, which makes it the perfect moment to upgrade your routine.

Red Light Therapy

Red Light Mask

To no one’s surprise, red light masks are everywhere right now. (And yes, we recently covered what a doctor actually looks for in one, which you should absolutely read if you want the full breakdown.)

I’ve tested a handful, and the one from BON CHARGE has been my tried and true. I use it about five times a week, and it has genuinely transformed my skin. Clearer. Firmer. That subtle glow that makes you look like you’re doing something right, even when you’re not.

But here’s the part no one wants to hear: it’s not magic, it’s consistency.

You need at least three times a week to start seeing results. I noticed a real difference after about a month of actually sticking to it.

What makes this one stand out is the science behind it. It uses 630nm red light and 850nm near infrared light, two of the most studied wavelengths in photobiomodulation. These wavelengths work beneath the surface to promote a radiant complexion, improve skin elasticity, and help soften the appearance of fine lines over time.

And the ease of it matters. It’s lightweight, flexible, and completely hands free, so you can wear it while answering emails, making coffee, or winding down at night. No downtime, no disruption. Just a treatment that quietly works in the background of your routine.

Over time, what you start to notice isn’t just one big dramatic change, but an overall shift in your skin. Smoother texture, more even tone, and that healthy, rested glow that usually comes from a really good facial.

This is one of those devices where if you commit, it delivers.

SHOP THE RED LIGHT MASK HERE.

Red Light Therapy Blanket

When I first got this, everyone thought I had officially lost it. But after seeing what consistent red light did for my face, I wanted that same effect for my entire body.

We’ve covered this before, but this is what replaced those red light therapy beds at the spa for me. And honestly, I prefer it.

You’re fully wrapped inside, like a sleeping bag, so your body is getting direct, consistent exposure. With some of those beds, I was never fully convinced I was getting the same level of coverage.

I usually use it after a shower in the evening, especially post-workout. Throw on a podcast, put on music, and suddenly 20 minutes disappears.

This blanket uses 660nm red light and 850nm near infrared light, which are the most studied, effective wavelengths. You can adjust intensity, timing, and even use pulsed mode for deeper penetration.

It also unzips into two separate mats, so yes, you can share if you’re feeling generous. This is easily one of the best wellness investments I’ve made. And with their current 25% off sale, this is the moment to do it.

SHOP THE RED LIGHT THERAPY BLANKET HERE.

Max Red Light Therapy Device

If the idea of being zipped into a blanket isn’t your thing, this is your alternative.

The Max Red Light Therapy Device is more of a panel setup. You can stand it upright, lay it horizontally, or position it depending on what you’re doing.

It’s great for muscle recovery, skin, sleep, all the usual benefits, but what I like most is how flexible it is.

Sometimes I’ll use it after a workout. Other times, I’ll place it next to my bed and just run the red light at night. It creates this low, calming glow that actually helps me wind down.

Same key wavelengths here, 660nm and 850nm, so you’re getting the full spectrum of benefits.

It’s one of those quiet upgrades that starts to become part of your routine without you even thinking about it.

SHOP THE MAX RED LIGHT THERAPY DEVICE HERE.

Infrared Sauna Treatments

Infrared PEMF Sauna Dome

I used to go to a studio twice a week for infrared saunas and cold plunge sessions.

Again, amazing. Also… not cheap.

When I found the Infrared PEMF Sauna Dome, I was hesitant. It’s an investment. But I also knew that over time, it would pay for itself in both money and time.

And it has.

This combines far infrared heat, PEMF, red light at 660nm, and near infrared at 850nm, working together to support relaxation, provide post-workout comfort, supports the body’s balance and recovery systems, and provides a grounding experience as part of your recovery routine. Basically, everything you’re getting at a high-end studio, but at home.

I use it in the morning, then hop straight into a cold shower after. It completely resets my mood and energy for the day.

Also, and this might just be me, but I am a bit of a germophobe, so having my own setup where I know I’m the only one sweating in it just hits different. It’s easy, efficient, and actually makes me more consistent than I ever was driving to a studio.

And like the rest, it’s included in their sitewide sale, which makes the decision a little easier.

SHOP THE INFRARED PEMF SAUNA DOME HERE.

Rethinking the Way We Invest in Wellness

I’m not giving up facials, spa days, or in clinic treatments entirely because there is still something to be said about the experience, the expertise, and those higher powered treatments that simply cannot be replicated at home. But what has changed is how often I feel like I need them.

These devices have shifted my routine from something that was dependent on appointments and availability to something that actually fits into my daily life. There is no commute, no scheduling, no friction. Just consistency, which ends up being the real driver behind results.

And that’s the part I didn’t expect. It’s not just about saving money, although that is a very real benefit. It’s about having the ability to show up for these rituals regularly, in a way that feels easy and sustainable. When something becomes part of your everyday rhythm, you stop thinking of it as a treatment and start seeing it as maintenance. It turns wellness from something you occasionally invest in into something seamlessly embedded in your routine.

All material on The Chalkboard Mag is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programs. This story is brought to you in partnership with BON CHARGE. From time to time, TCM editors choose to partner with brands we believe in to bring our readers special offers.

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In Conversation: A Chemist on Vitamin C and Skin Longevity

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Vitamin C might be one of the most talked about ingredients in skincare, but it is also one of the most misunderstood. Between percentage debates, oxidation fears, and layering confusion, the science often gets buried under the hype.

For chemist and founder Marie Veronique Nadeau, the conversation starts with biology. Vitamin C is essential to collagen production, cellular repair, and long term skin resilience. No Vitamin C equals no collagen. The real question is not whether you should use it, but which form your skin can actually tolerate and benefit from.

Through her brand Marie Veronique, she has developed two distinct approaches to topical Vitamin C: the antioxidant driven Vitamins C+E+Ferulic Serum, and the gentler, derivative based C Therapy Serum designed for more sensitive or reactive skin types. Both reflect her longevity first philosophy and her belief in smart formulation over trend chasing.

We sat down with Marie to decode what Vitamin C is really doing in your skin, how to choose the right version, what to avoid, and why pairing it strategically with retinol may be one of the most powerful moves you can make for long term skin health.

You can read our previous Living Well Interview with Marie Veronique Nadeau here. 

In Conversation with Marie Marie Veronique Nadeau

How should someone incorporate Vitamin C into their morning and/or evening routine? Ascorbic acid is still very much the gold standard in skin care. For most people a serum containing ascorbic acid stabilized in an anhydrous system with a pH of 4 to 4.5 will be their first choice, especially one that is further stabilized with Vitamin E and ferulic acid.  It can be used in the morning under sunscreen to obtain additional anti-oxidant protection.  It can be used at night to aid in regenerative mechanisms such as collagen production.  Ascorbic acid hydroxylates proline, and is one of the first steps in collagen biosynthesis- no Vitamin C, no collagen. 

People who have trouble tolerating a low pH, i.e., have sensitive or sensitized skin or inflammatory conditions such as rosacea, should be looking for a Vitamin C derivative in their serum. No one should try to apply Vitamin C directly onto their skin—this can be very damaging. 

Can you use Vitamin C with retinol? Yes, absolutely, and anyone interested in skin longevity will want to. You can use them together (layered) or split them into morning and evening usage.  Use vitamin C in the daytime for its antioxidant properties and retinol at night, when you get the best benefit from its signaling properties that send instructions to the fibroblasts to make more collagen. You get fantastic synergy from using both—Vitamin C provides a necessary step in collagen production, while retinol converts to retinoic acid in the cell, where it binds to receptors that act as chemical messengers that inform processes such as upregulation of collagen production and cell turnover and downregulation of melanin production (for brighter skin).  

What should people look for (and avoid) when selecting a Vitamin C product? First, avoid AA (ascorbic acid) powders which can give you an acid burn.  

People looking for protective and longevity benefits should look for a serum with Vitamin C as ascorbic acid in combination with helper antioxidants like Vitamin E and ferulic acid. 

For people with sensitive or sensitized skin, look for a Vitamin C derivative. You can refine your search to look for the derivative that conforms to your special needs. For example, people looking for skin brightening effects should search out ingredients like glyceryl ascorbate and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate. People with acne issues should look for SAP (sodium ascorbyl phosphate) for its ability to reduce sebum oxidation in congested pores, a major cause of acne. And of course sensitive, challenged skin that is in that age group where collagen building is important should seek out THA (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate) and MAP (magnesium ascorbyl phosphate); both have good performance records for penetrating to the fibroblast to hydroxylate proline. The cell releases hydroxyproline, a necessary component of collagen, and the hard and fast rule is: no Vitamin C = no collagen! 

How does Vitamin C interact with other active ingredients like retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, and peptides?

1. Vitamin C + retinol has significant synergistic interactions, with signaling from retinol plus hydroxyproline from Vitamin C providing benefits across age-delay and skin brightening platforms.  In addition to boosting collagen production, the two also interact via epigenetic mechanisms to promote epidermal thickening.
2. Interaction of AHAs and BHAs can increase skin sensitivity as they are acids.  Vitamin C has enormous benefits and can be used every day, while an AHA for exfoliation can be used once a week, separately from Vitamin C. I recommend lactic acid for exfoliation treatments, as it has, in addition to being gentle, a great skin longevity profile—including boosting collagen production and dermal thickening. It also acts as a signaling molecule to regulate autophagy. 
3. Vitamin C and peptides: It’s probably best to use Vitamin C and peptides separately, because of potential pH conflicts where effects are neutralized (particularly in the case of copper peptides). Use vitamin C in the morning for antioxidant benefits and peptides at night for repair purposes.  

Your brand offers Vitamins C+E+Ferulic Serum and C-Therapy Serum, at a high level, what is the core difference in purpose and performance between these two? Vitamins C+E+Ferulic Serum combines powerful antioxidants to deliver increased antioxidant protection, plus Vitamin C as ascorbic acid promotes collagen production. It is designed for people with normal skin who need protection and want the age-delay benefits of Vitamin C delivered in a way that produces maximum results.

Everybody needs Vitamin C, but not everyone can use ascorbic acid. This is why we developed C-Therapy Serum, for those people on the spectrum with Vitamin C sensitivity or other issues. Vitamin C derivatives are stable and deliver l-ascorbic acid to the skin without creating issues with sensitization. In addition, each derivative in C-Therapy Serum performs a special range of tasks. Clinical studies show that: sodium ascorbyl phosphate prevents oxidation of debris in congested pores to clear breakouts, glyceryl ascrobate moisturizes and improves barrier function, and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate and tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate impede hyperpigmentation processes and increase collagen levels. The formulation is rounded out with alpha-lipoic acid –the universal antioxidant that helps prevent damage to mitochondrial DNA.  

Are there ingredients you should avoid pairing with either serum? They are designed to work with most ingredients but remember the rules—you don’t want to avoid lowering pH so be careful in combining with AHAs, BHAs, and the other rule: Protect by day and repair by night—so use antioxidants by day and retinol and other signal peptides for repair by night.  

How can you tell if your Vitamin C serum has oxidized and is no longer effective? The color should remain the same as when you first use it, if it starts turning darker that is a sign that it might be oxidizing.

How does your formula differ from other C+E+Ferulic serums on the market? We pay attention to synergy, both within the formulation, where we want to increase the antioxidant power of the serum, but within the wider context of how Vitamin C works with other protective and regenerative products, particularly sunscreen and retinol serums. 

We incorporate advanced technology in a light-weight serum that can be layered with sunscreen by day to deliver antioxidant protection, or with a retinoid product at night to ensure that sufficient l-ascorbic acid is in skin tissue to respond to retinoic acid signaling to make collagen. 

Vitamin C must be present to hydroxylate proline for the formation of a stable collagen triple helix. To fully optimize skin health and longevity, we recommend combining oral supplements, taken daily, with either topical Vitamins C+E+Ferulic Serum or C-Therapy Serum, also to be used daily. 

Is there an emerging ingredient or new research direction in antioxidant science that you’re excited about in skincare? Yes, there are new studies indicating that Vitamin C plays a role in skin regeneration via epidermal thickening—which adds greatly to its longevity profile, as it addresses the crepey skin issue that is of special concern for mature skin. Acting through the epigenetic mechanism called DNA demethylation, Vitamin C drives TET enzymes to reactivate genes that boost keratinocyte proliferation and increase epidermal thickness. 

Synergy is the other exciting news; use of retinol and Vitamin C together enhances the skin thickening process—retinol acts as a signaling molecule to upregulate and increase TET enzymes within the cell, while Vitamin C acts as the cofactor to recharge the enzymes.  Using the two vitamins together influences the epigenome and promotes skin longevity. 

The post In Conversation: A Chemist on Vitamin C and Skin Longevity appeared first on The Chalkboard Mag.

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What Happens When You Drink Carrot Juice Every Day? A Nutritionist Explains

Carrot juice is one of those wellness staples that’s been around forever. Long before green juices had PR teams and glass bottles became accessories, this bright orange classic was quietly doing the job.

Which is exactly why it caught our attention when Pressed Juicery recently launched a new carrot juice. Not because it felt new, but because it made us pause and ask the obvious question. What actually happens when you drink carrot juice consistently? Their version keeps it simple, 100% cold-pressed, made with over 12 carrots per bottle with justt a touch of lemon for brightness. Each bottle delivers over 200% of your daily vitamin A, along with naturally occurring electrolytes that make it especially refreshing as warmer days approach.

We asked Sahar Berjis, Dietitian, Nutrition Coach, and CEO of Inner Health & Wellness, to break it down. With over 20 years of experience, Sahar is known for blending functional and traditional nutrition into a more holistic, whole-body approach. She’s lectured at institutions like NYU and Columbia, spoken at major nutrition conferences, and built a practice rooted in helping people create results that actually last.

Her philosophy is simple but powerful. Wellness isn’t about extremes. It’s about understanding your body, working with it, and building habits that feel as good as they are effective.

In Conversation with Dr. Sahar Berjis

Carrot juice is rich in beta carotene and antioxidants. When someone drinks it regularly, how does that actually influence things like inflammation, cellular health, or oxidative stress in the body over time? Carrot juice is like a little daily “cellular support drink.”

Beta carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A, helps neutralize oxidative stress, the kind that builds up from everyday life such as stress, pollution, and lack of sleep. Over time, this can support healthier cells and help calm low-grade inflammation in the body.

It’s actually a great addition to anti-inflammatory protocols when used thoughtfully. It’s not a magic solution, but it’s a powerful support tool when layered into a balanced routine.

Some practitioners recommend carrot juice as part of gut healing or anti-inflammatory protocols. In your experience, are there specific situations or health goals where drinking carrot juice regularly can be particularly beneficial? I love using carrot juice strategically, especially in anti-inflammatory protocols.

It can be helpful for supporting anti-inflammatory pathways, providing easy-to-digest nutrients when digestion feels sluggish, and offering gentle nourishment during recovery phases.

However, it’s not always ideal for everyone. Carrot juice is naturally higher in sugar, so for clients with gut healing issues or blood sugar imbalances, it can sometimes do more harm than good if overused.

Is there an optimal time of day to drink carrot juice for better nutrient absorption or digestive benefits? Yes, and it’s refreshingly simple.

Morning or midday tends to be best, when your body is ready to absorb nutrients.

Pairing it with a little healthy fat, like nuts or a meal, helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins like beta carotene.

I usually avoid recommending it at night. It’s naturally sweet and can give a subtle energy boost.

Think of it as a morning glow ritual, not a bedtime drink.

Some people swear carrot juice improves their skin or gives them more of a natural glow. Is there real nutritional science behind that connection between carotenoid rich foods and skin health? This is one wellness trend that actually has some science behind it.

Carotenoids can build up slightly in the skin over time, giving that subtle warm tone people call a natural glow. More importantly, vitamin A supports skin repair and cell turnover, which contributes to healthier-looking skin overall.

But it’s not overnight. It’s consistency over time.

Final Sip

Carrot juice may not be the loudest player in the wellness space, but that’s kind of the point. It’s steady, effective, and surprisingly versatile when used with intention.

As Sahar puts it, it can be a beautiful addition to your routine, especially for anti-inflammatory support, but it’s not one-size-fits-all.

The real takeaway feels simple. The most powerful habits are often the ones that don’t try too hard. And sometimes, it really is as easy as a glass of something bright, familiar, and quietly doing the work in the background.

The post What Happens When You Drink Carrot Juice Every Day? A Nutritionist Explains appeared first on The Chalkboard Mag.

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The Pink Moon and Your Energy: What to Lean Into (and What to Let Go Of)

There’s a moment every spring where everything around you starts to speed up… and something in you quietly resists it.

Plans return. Energy picks up. There’s this subtle pressure to get back into momentum. But internally, it can feel less like a fresh start and more like a checkpoint. Like you’re being asked to pause before moving forward.

That’s exactly where this year’s Pink Moon meets you.

On April 1, 2026, the first full moon of spring rises in Libra, illuminating the space between where you are and what actually feels aligned. Not in a dramatic way, but in that unmistakable, hard-to-ignore clarity that shows up when something has been sitting beneath the surface for a while.

The Real Theme: Balance Isn’t Neutral
This full moon forms an opposition between the Sun in Aries and the Moon in Libra, a dynamic that always brings the tension between independence and connection into focus.

Aries pushes forward. It’s instinctive, self-led, decisive.

Libra pauses. It evaluates. It asks whether what you’re moving toward actually feels right, not just whether it’s available or expected.

That tension can show up in subtle but specific ways:

+ Wanting more space, but feeling responsible for others

+ Craving ease, but continuing patterns that feel effortful

+ Knowing something is off, but not wanting to disrupt the dynamic

This is where the clarity comes in.

Libra doesn’t force change. It reflects it back to you until you can’t unsee it.

Why This Moon Feels Heightened
Full moons mark a point of culmination. Something that began around the new moon is now fully visible, emotionally or situationally.

With Libra involved, that visibility tends to center around relationships, but not just romantic ones. It includes:

+ Your relationship to your time

+ Your relationship to your energy

+ Your relationship to your own needs

There’s also a Venusian influence here. Libra is ruled by Venus, which sharpens awareness around pleasure, value, and reciprocity.

In other words, this isn’t just about balance in theory. It’s about whether something actually feels good to you anymore.

And if it doesn’t, it becomes increasingly difficult to ignore.

What to Lean Into

Discernment Over Default
Libra energy is often misunderstood as passive or indecisive, but at its core, it’s highly discerning. This is a moment to question what you’ve been doing on autopilot.

Where are you saying yes out of habit rather than intention?
Where are you maintaining something simply because it’s been that way?

Clarity doesn’t arrive as a grand realization here. It shows up in small, specific moments where something feels slightly misaligned.

Pay attention to those.

Energetic Reciprocity
This full moon sharpens your awareness of exchange. Not just what you’re giving, but what’s being returned. That can show up in obvious ways, like relationships that feel one-sided. But it can also be more internal:

+ The effort you’re putting into something vs. what it gives back

+ The way you speak to yourself vs. what you expect from yourself

+ The balance between output and restoration

Libra doesn’t demand equal halves. It looks for mutuality. A sense that what you’re investing feels supported, not depleted.

Letting Something Complete
Full moons don’t initiate, they conclude.

Something is reaching its natural endpoint here, whether that’s a pattern, a perspective, or a way of showing up.

It doesn’t have to be dramatic.

It might just be a quiet internal shift:
“I’m not doing this the same way anymore.”

And that’s enough.

What to Let Go Of
Over-Accommodating to Maintain Harmony.
Libra seeks harmony, but when it’s out of balance, that can turn into over-accommodation.

Smoothing things over
Avoiding discomfort
Prioritizing someone else’s experience at the expense of your own

This moon tends to highlight where that’s happening.

Not to push you into conflict, but to show you that harmony built on self-abandonment isn’t actually sustainable.

Outdated Dynamics
Because Libra governs relationships, this full moon often coincides with shifts in how those relationships function.

Not necessarily endings, but recalibrations.

You may notice:

+ You have less tolerance for certain dynamics

+ You’re less willing to overextend

+ You’re more aware of where you’re not being met

That awareness alone begins to change the dynamic.

Forcing Forward Momentum
Aries season brings urgency. Move, act, decide.

But the full moon interrupts that.

It asks you to pause long enough to assess whether the direction you’re moving in is actually aligned.

If something feels rushed, unclear, or slightly off, there’s value in waiting.

Not everything needs immediate action. Some things need recognition first.

How to Work With This Energy
This isn’t a moon that requires elaborate rituals.

It responds more to awareness than action.

Notice where your energy goes throughout the day.
Notice what feels expansive vs. constricting.
Notice what you’re tolerating that you don’t actually want to be.

If you want to engage with it more intentionally:

+ Write down what feels out of balance right now

+ Have one conversation where you’re more honest than usual

+ Pull your energy back, even slightly, from something that feels draining

Small shifts are amplified under this kind of clarity.

A Subtle Turning Point
The Pink Moon doesn’t push. It reveals.

It shows you where something has already shifted internally, even if your external life hasn’t caught up yet.

And once you see it, even quietly, you start to move differently.

Not because you have to.

Because you can’t unknow it anymore.

The post The Pink Moon and Your Energy: What to Lean Into (and What to Let Go Of) appeared first on The Chalkboard Mag.

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