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The Chicago Journal

Evinature: Beyond Symptoms – Unveiling the Future of Gut Health for the 50+ Generation

The Chicago Journal Staff on September 16, 2025

For millions over 50, the emergence of digestive discomforts – persistent bloating, unpredictable gas, irregular bowel habits, and nagging abdominal pain – is a familiar yet frustrating reality. Often, the diagnosis points to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), leading to a path of symptom management that can feel endless. But what if there was a deeper, often overlooked, cause at play? Evinature, a trailblazing brand at the intersection of traditional wisdom and modern science, is challenging this narrative, offering a paradigm shift in how we approach gut health for the aging population. Their flagship product, DivertX, is not just another supplement; it’s a doctor-developed solution meticulously crafted to target the root cause of these mysterious digestive issues.

Evinature’s very foundation is built on a profound commitment: to seamlessly integrate the time-honored efficacy of herbal medicine with the rigorous validation of modern scientific research. Their mission isn’t simply to alleviate discomfort, but to empower individuals with accessible, effective, and safe nutraceutical solutions that foster accurate digestive control. This ethos springs from a decade-long collaborative journey between leading gastroenterologists and integrative medicine experts. They witnessed firsthand the limitations of conventional treatments for conditions like IBD and diverticulosis, prompting them to embark on a quest for natural, evidence-based alternatives – a commitment to scientific rigor and patient-centered care that truly sets Evinature apart.

DivertX: A Doctor’s Insight, A Patient’s Solution

The start of DivertX lies in a critical clinical observation: many patients over 50, presenting with classic “IBS-like” symptoms, were actually experiencing misdiagnosed or early-stage symptoms of diverticulosis – a condition characterized by small pouches (diverticula) forming in the colon wall, often leading to inflammation and bacterial imbalances. Conventional approaches like antibiotics or fiber usually fall short, providing only temporary relief or even exacerbating symptoms. Patients yearned for a gentle, natural, and lasting solution.

This is where DivertX steps in. Developed by a team of top gastroenterologists, this nutraceutical is formulated explicitly for two underserved groups:

  • Adults over 50 who are just beginning to experience unexplained digestive distress (bloating, gas, irregularity, abdominal pain) that mimics IBS.
  • Individuals who have experienced diverticulitis flare-ups and are seeking a natural, long-term strategy to reduce inflammation and help prevent recurrence.

The brilliance of DivertX lies in its targeted approach. It addresses the core problem in aging guts: trapped bacteria and immune activation inside or around the diverticula. Instead of simply masking symptoms, DivertX provides a comprehensive solution designed to:

  • Calm inflammation within the colon lining.
  • Reduce trapped bacteria within diverticula.
  • Alleviate IBS-like symptoms at their source.
  • Support overall gut healing and foster microbial balance.

Beyond the Ordinary: What Makes Evinature Different

In a crowded market of general digestive aids, Evinature and DivertX carve a distinct niche by addressing specific, age-related gastrointestinal challenges with unparalleled precision.

The Evinature Difference – Key Differentiators of DivertX:

  • Dual-Purpose Focus: Designed for both proactive care in individuals experiencing early symptoms and restorative support for those recovering from diverticulitis.
  • Gastroenterologist-Developed: Unlike many generic supplements, DivertX is the brainchild of leading medical professionals.
  • Synergistic Ingredient Profile: A potent blend of clinically studied plant compounds, including:
    • Curcumin: A potent turmeric-derived anti-inflammatory.
    • Coptis: A millennia-old herb from Chinese medicine with potent anti-bacterial properties
  • Safe for Daily Use: Formulated for gentle yet effective daily use.
  • Targeted Action: Directly addresses the site of inflammation around and within diverticula, rather than just alleviating symptoms.
  • Tailored to Aging Gut Needs: Specifically designed to support the unique physiological changes that occur in the digestive system after age 50.

DivertX is presented as easy-to-swallow, plant-based, allergen-free capsules (60 capsules per bottle for a 30-day supply). It’s meticulously crafted to be free from gluten, dairy, soy, and artificial preservatives. The benefits extend far beyond immediate relief, offering a path to long-term digestive wellness and a proactive approach to preventing future flare-ups.

As Prof. Shomron Ben-Horin, M.D., Co-founder & Chief Medical Officer of Evinature, aptly states, “We founded Evinature to bridge the gap between traditional herbal remedies and modern clinical practice, offering patients safe, effective, and evidence-based solutions for gastrointestinal health.” This encapsulates Evinature’s core message: unexplained gut symptoms after 50 are not simply “IBS” but often a sign of underlying diverticular inflammation. DivertX offers a medically backed, natural solution, empowering individuals to regain control of their digestive health, whether they’re navigating new symptoms or seeking to prevent recurrence. Evinature is not just selling a product; it’s ushering in a new era of understanding and caring for the aging gut.

 

Disclaimer: Evinature’s DivertX is a dietary supplement, not a drug, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The statements about this product have not been evaluated by the FDA. Results may vary. Consult with a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications. Evinature products are not a substitute for medical treatment.

Joseph Mahar: When the Ordinary Hints at the Unsettling

The Chicago Journal Staff on September 16, 2025

There is a little sprinkle of magic in the way Joseph Mahar tells a story. He does not begin with grand monsters or distant galaxies. Instead, he begins with something familiar, say a kitchen table, a digital clock, a storm outside the window, and lets it shift, just slightly, until the ordinary no longer feels safe.

What You Need to Know

His book What If… is built entirely on the small fractures in daily life. A man watches the numbers on his clock freeze at 9:11, and time itself becomes a prison. A mother plucks flies out of the air as if they were raisins, dropping them into her mouth between bites of breakfast. A store at the end of the road looks abandoned, but its door says “open,” and inside waits an old artist with secrets painted into the walls.

The horror is not in distant shadows. It is in the rooms we already know. It is in the way guilt follows us after we turn our heads from a tragedy. It is in the way silence settles after something unspeakable has happened. Joseph’s writing does not ask you to run. Instead, it asks you to sit still and look again at the things you thought you understood.

Why His Work Resonates

  • Everyday Scenes, Deep Ripples: What If… doesn’t rely on jump scares. Its power is in subtle displacements: a digital clock that stops, a mother crunching flies over breakfast, a toy that looks innocent until it’s not, and creature horror when you least expect it. These stories slip into your mind and linger.
  • Emotion Meets Unease: The real chills in Joseph’s writing come from guilt, regret, and human frailty. A man who flees from an accident. A hermit discovering years of self-deception. These themes echo long after the story is done.
  • A Heartfelt Memoir on the Way: Me and Sue steps away from speculative horror into something warmer and closer…family, love, quiet moments. It’s a requiem for childhood, loss, the delicate forming of a writer’s heart.

What Makes Joseph’s Craft Unique

  • Simplicity as Strength: He anchors his stories in simple, everyday details; things we all know well. Then he adjusts a corner, just enough, to make familiar become strange.
  • A Quiet, Reflective Voice: He writes with the patient gaze of someone who has listened deeply to life, raised kids, watched insects in remote places, written letters more than stories. That lived experience gives his writing authenticity.
  • A Blend of Heart and Horror: You won’t find distant horror landscapes in his books. You’ll find a kitchen table, a childhood memory, a bedtime reading. And then you’ll feel that things aren’t quite what they seem.

Who He Is

Joseph’s life has shaped the threads of his imagination.

  • From the Barn to the Page: Long before What If…, there was a boy on a farm, helping with cows in the barn, making butter, reading comic books until the edges curled. 
  • First Glimmers of Voice: He did not write as a child, but he carried the worlds of others inside him. In high school, with the encouragement of a teacher named Mrs. Carpenter, he wrote his first story. It was about an antlion. And he felt for the first time that he had a voice of his own.
  • Peacemaking Through Writing: Joseph’s life took him far from home—the looming draft of Vietnam, the choice of the Peace Corps, the long afternoons spent watching insects and learning how to notice.
  • Builds Stories from Family Love: Later came Sue, and with her, came a partnership that deepened his life: five children, bedtime readings of The Hobbit, funny family letters about cows and Christmases, and the gentle weaving of love into everyday things.

All of it became part of his writing. He wrote reflections, essays, obituaries. He wrote about his dog. He wrote about the world outside his window. And then he wrote What If…, a collection that feels less like fiction and more like someone tapping you on the shoulder, asking, “Have you ever wondered…?”

Why You’ll Want to Read Him

Joseph Mahar’s books feel like slow reveals. What If… unsettles with a dread rooted in things most of us take for granted. Me and Sue promises shimmering warmth, showing the roots of his imagination in love and resilience. His stories don’t shout; they unfold. And once they’re in your mind, they stay.

What’s Next

Stay tuned for Me and Sue, coming soon. Meanwhile, start with What If… which is perfect for fans of literary horror that creeps in under your skin, where power lies in what you almost missed noticing.

Unlocking the Science Behind spermidineLIFE® and Cellular Health

The Chicago Journal Staff on September 16, 2025

In an era where “healthspan” is rapidly becoming more important than just lifespan, discerning individuals are no longer passive bystanders to the aging process. If you’re among the health-conscious adults over 45 battling brain fog and seeking to possibly regain youthful energy, or a biohacker in your 30s already familiar with “autophagy” and “cell renewal,” you understand that true vitality may start deep within. Longevity Labs, with its flagship product line spermidineLIFE®, is at the forefront of this potential cellular wellness revolution.

The Cellular Challenge: Why We Lose Our Spark

As the years pass, many notice a frustrating decline: memories aren’t as sharp, energy levels dip, metabolism slows, and the shadow of age-related diseases looms larger. These aren’t just inevitable consequences of time; they are often rooted in the declining efficiency of our 37 trillion cells. A critical cellular process called autophagy – essentially our body’s internal “spring cleaning” system – becomes less effective. Damaged and dysfunctional cellular components accumulate, hindering optimal function and possibly accelerating the signs of aging.

The science is supported: maintaining robust cellular health is fundamental to combating these age-related ailments. For decades, caloric restriction and fasting were the most recognized ways to boost autophagy. But what if there was a way to activate this profound renewal process without drastic dietary changes?

The Breakthrough: Spermidine – Nature’s Autophagy Activator

In 2009, a notable discovery emerged from the Karl-Franzens-University Graz, Austria. Professor Frank Madeo, a leading molecular biologist and now a co-founder of Longevity Labs, identified spermidine – a natural, endogenous substance – as a potent trigger of autophagy. This finding was a significant development, revealing that spermidine could mimic the cellular benefits of fasting, offering a new pathway to enhanced cellular health and potentially longevity.

This is where spermidineLIFE®, a Longevity Labs company, enters the picture. Harnessing this scientifically supported breakthrough, they developed the world’s first natural food supplement designed to activate autophagy, built upon years of dedicated research and development.

Introducing spermidineLIFE®: Precision Cellular Renewal

spermidineLIFE® isn’t just another supplement; it’s a targeted, science-backed approach to cellular rejuvenation, featuring the proprietary CelVio® Complex, a spermidine-rich wheat germ extract.

  • spermidineLIFE® Extra+: For those seeking a significant boost, these capsules deliver 1300mg of CelVio® Complex, offering twice the strength of the original formula and 30% more vital polyamines.
  • spermidineLIFE® Ultra+: The pinnacle of polyamine supplementation, this sachet-based 30-day supply contains over three times the polyamines of the original product, offering maximum support for cellular renewal. Convenient & easy sachet (drink mix) you can take on the go to ensure consistent daily intake.

Both formulations are enhanced with zinc, which supports cell division, and thiamine, essential for energy metabolism, creating a synergistic blend for optimal cellular function.

The spermidineLIFE® Difference: Why Settle for Less?

The supplement market is awash with options, but spermidineLIFE® distinguishes itself through an unwavering commitment to quality, science, and safety:

  1. The Power of Natural & Full Spectrum: spermidineLIFE® is derived from natural, non-GMO wheat germ. Unlike synthetic spermidine, which may involve harsh chemical processes and lack crucial co-factors, spermidineLIFE® provides a full spectrum of polyamines (spermidine, spermine, putrescine), which are believed to offer broader benefits.
  2. Scientific Pedigree: With Professor Frank Madeo at its scientific core, Longevity Labs stands on a bedrock of research. spermidineLIFE® is the only spermidine supplement backed by human clinical studies using the actual product. Its efficacy is supported by over 200 research labs worldwide.
  3. European Excellence & Safety: Manufactured in Austria to pharmaceutical-grade standards, spermidineLIFE® is the only spermidine supplement to achieve European Novel Food Approval – a stringent validation of its safety, purity, and innovation. This is a mark of distinction that speaks highly.
  4. First Mover & Trusted Leader: As the pioneer in natural spermidine supplementation, spermidineLIFE® is the #1 trusted brand in both the EU and the US, recommended by a network of over 500 health practitioners.
  5. Beyond the Hype: Forget fleeting fads or drugs with concerning side effects. Spermidine is a molecule your body already produces and recognizes. In the world’s ‘Blue Zones,’ known for their residents’ remarkable longevity, diets are naturally rich in spermidine.”spermidineLIFE® simply helps you achieve optimal levels to efficiently activate autophagy.

Your Cells Are Calling for a Cleanup

The core message is simple yet profound: “Your Cells Need Cleaning Too.” Just as your home benefits from regular decluttering, your cells require autophagy to clear out damage and regenerate. This process is fundamental to:

  • Supporting heart and brain health (addressing that primary pain point of brain fog).
  • Improving metabolic and immune function.
  • Promoting overall longevity and a healthier, more active “healthspan.”
  • Helping you “feel younger” naturally, without side effects.

While the name “spermidine” might initially raise an eyebrow (let’s be honest, it’s a bit memorable!), the science behind its benefits for cellular health is compelling and well-supported.

Embrace a Future of Vitality

Longevity Labs’ mission is to empower you with accessible, actionable science to redefine aging. With spermidineLIFE®, you’re not just taking a supplement; you’re investing in your cellular future, promoting energy, enhancing metabolic health, and embracing healthier aging from the inside out. It’s time to feel the difference – naturally.

 

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. The claims made about the product are based on available research and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. 

Amberton University: Expanding Texas’ Mental Health Education Excellence

The Chicago Journal Staff on September 16, 2025

By: Mark Ng

Amberton University has long been recognized for its commitment to working adults, delivering education that is practical, affordable, and transformative. Among its many standout offerings, the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program has emerged as one of the prominent and respected in the state of Texas. 

Guided by experienced faculty and visionary leadership, the program continues to expand its impact under the current President, Dr. Carol A. Palmer.

A Legacy of Excellence in Counseling

For over 35 years, Amberton’s counseling program has been a cornerstone of the university. Dr. Ken Johnson, professor and chair of the Master of Arts in Counseling Degree Program, has been a key figure since 1989. 

“Amberton has been a great fit for me,” Dr. Johnson explains. “We specialize in the adult learner, and I’ve always been intrigued by people who are passionate enough to return to school while managing careers and families.”

Dr. Johnson also believes that the program’s success lies in its practitioner-focused model.

“All Amberton faculty members are practitioners. We don’t have assistants to grade or teach for us. So we’re responsible for connecting with our students. We have to engage with them and personally ensure they leave this campus prepared to succeed.”

Meeting the Needs of Texas Communities

The demand for qualified mental health professionals has never been higher in Texas. And Amberton’s program addresses this need by producing graduates who are both practically trained and academically prepared.

Amberton’s faculty recognizes the importance of accessibility as well. The average age of their students is between 36 and 40, and they’re already working full-time jobs.

“They come here for a career change,” Dr. Johnson says. “Or to pursue state licensure. It’s our job to make sure they’re able to establish themselves as competent professionals once they leave.” 

This responsiveness to student needs aligns with Amberton’s broader mission. As outlined in the university’s Six Pillars of Service Excellence, professionalism, initiative, and communication guide every interaction with students and colleagues.

A Vision of Innovation and Adaptability

Under Dr. Carol Palmer’s leadership, Amberton has fully updated its curriculum. Its courses teach real-world skills through innovative approaches. This has led faculty members to recognize her openness to change as a driving force. 

“What’s most exciting now is that we’re changing the way we’ve done business for the past 50 years,” shares Dr. Deborah Hill, professor of Business and Human Behavior. “Dr. Palmer is open to necessary change, but still employs a vigilant approach. We need to make sure we’re actually meeting students’ needs and not just following trends.”

Dr. Hill further praises the program’s adaptability, stating that they have the opportunity to innovate and offer ideas that enhance the student experience. She believes that this level of creativity is critical in preparing students for rapidly evolving professional environments.

Technology’s Role in Counseling Education

Amberton is also embracing the future of education by integrating artificial intelligence into its curriculum. While counseling remains a deeply human profession, technological literacy is becoming essential. 

Dr. J. Alexander Sinclair, the program coordinator for Amberton’s new Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence degree, highlights this forward-thinking approach. “Dr. Palmer is committed to making Amberton an AI-literate campus,” he states. “Even in fields like counseling, understanding how AI can ethically and strategically support professionals is becoming increasingly important.”

He also emphasizes that Amberton’s unique approach ensures students graduate with both traditional skills and modern competencies. 

“Equipping students with theory is expected,” he says. “But we’re also equipping them with the ability to apply technology responsibly in their professional roles.” 

Expanding Healthcare Connections

Amberton’s commitment to healthcare education extends beyond counseling. 

The recent launch of the Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) program, led by Dr. Ron Norris, illustrates how the university is broadening its impact. 

Dr. Norris notes the synergy between healthcare and counseling education: “Amberton’s emphasis on hiring practicing professionals ensures our students are learning from experts actively engaged in the field. This model applies to counseling as much as it does to healthcare administration.”

Dr. Norris praises the alignment of Amberton’s programs with regional workforce needs. Currently, Healthcare in Dallas-Fort Worth is a $50 billion industry. Amberton’s ability to prepare graduates who can contribute immediately is a testament to its vision and leadership. 

Student-Centered Philosophy

Amberton’s Clinical Mental Health program is distinguished not only by its academic rigor but also by its student-centered approach. Faculty members make accessibility and responsiveness a priority, reflecting Amberton’s mission of providing meaningful education to working adults.

Dr. Johnson describes this commitment: “Students say I sometimes answer their emails before they’ve even finished writing them. That accessibility matters because our students juggle work, families, and school. We make sure they never feel left behind.”

Dr. Hill echoes this sentiment, pointing to the value of direct student engagement. “Our students aren’t 18- or 19-year-olds,” she says. “They’re much older. So they bring life experience and workplace challenges to the classroom. It’s our job to meet them where they are with practical, applicable solutions.”

Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders

Amberton’s Clinical Mental Health program continues to attract students because it delivers what today’s workforce demands: practical knowledge, professional accountability, and affordable education. 

According to Amberton’s data, 97% of graduates believe their tuition costs were affordable and their degrees provided exceptional value. This outcome reinforces the university’s mission to make education work for working adults.

Dr. Sinclair points out that Amberton’s integration of AI and technology into the curriculum adds further value. Their students graduate with a polished portfolio of applied AI skills that they can present to potential employers immediately.

Amberton: Leading with Purpose

Amberton University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is more than a degree. It’s a pathway to meaningful careers that strengthen Texas communities. 

With dedicated faculty like Drs. Johnson, Hill, Sinclair, and Norris, supported by the forward-looking leadership of Dr. Carol Palmer, Amberton University is redefining counseling education through accountability, innovation, and student-centered service.

Amberton’s faculty doesn’t just deliver education. It connects with students, meets their needs, and prepares them to lead. And they believe that this is why Amberton’s Clinical Mental Health program continues to stand out in Texas education excellence.

 

Disclaimer: The views and experiences shared in this article reflect the perspectives of Amberton University faculty and staff. Amberton University does not guarantee specific outcomes, such as career placement or licensure success. Results may vary based on individual efforts and circumstances. For more information, refer to the university’s official resources and consult academic advisors