MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center’s John Bahadorani, M.D., is a leader in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) – a Minimally Invasive Way to Treat Heart Disease

When it comes to heart conditions, valve disease is very serious, since it impacts one of the biggest arteries in the body: the aorta. Aortic stenosis is when the valve between the lower left heart chamber and the aorta cannot open fully. Because of this, blood fl ow from the heart to the aorta is reduced or blocked altogether, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood to the rest of the body. If left untreated, aortic stenosis can lead to heart failure, stroke, blood clots, bleeding, irregular heartbeat, infections that affect the heart, or even death.

Aortic stenosis was typically only treated with open-heart surgery, requiring long hospitalization, posing a greater risk of infection, causing more pain and requiring a longer recovery time. Currently, specialists from MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Saddleback Medical Center, including Dr. John Bahadorani, Dr. Michael Gault, Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, Dr. Jeffrey Altshuler, and Dr. Colin Joyo, are performing a minimally invasive procedure called Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) to treat aortic stenosis.

TAVR replaces a damaged aortic valve by implanting a catheter through an artery in the groin or chest and replacing the artery without ever needing open heart surgery.

“TAVR is a low risk, minimally invasive procedure that allows the aortic valve in your heart to be replaced with a new valve, all while your heart is still beating,” says John Bahadorani, M.D., FACC, FSCAI, interventional cardiol-ogist, MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Saddleback Medical Center.

“TAVR is a good treatment option for those with severe aortic stenosis. Patients at intermediate or high risk, or those not suitable for open-heart surgery, should speak with their doctor to determine if TAVR might be the right treatment for them.”

Dr. Bahadorani is a board-certified interventional cardiologist, well-versed in the opening of blocked blood vessels with minimally invasive catheter procedures. He devotes his time to treating patients, and teaching other cardiologists what he has learned from his many years of experience.

“Having a healthy heart is extremely important to ensure your entire body is functioning properly,” Dr. Bahadorani explains. “I am blessed to have these years of experience in helping patients keep their heart healthy, and I will do all I can to help other cardiologists do the same.”

The MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Saddleback Medical Center completed its 500th structural heart procedure in under five years, making it a leader in structural heart case in Southern Orange County.

The MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Saddleback Medical Center offers comprehensive, personalized care for the most complex cardiac and vascular conditions. The care team at Saddleback Medical Center coordinates all aspects of a patient’s heart and vascular care – from prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation.

For more information about TAVR, visit memorialcare.org/MHVI.

By Sunao Gilbert, MD, FAARFM, ABAARM

Do all of your joints hurt? Does every movement cause you to experience pain? If so, you may have a leaky gut. Leaky gut occurs when the Gastrointestinal tract is inflamed, proteins and food particles then leak through the inflamed lining and cause an immune response.

Do you have a “low thyroid”? The cause may be your gut. Your GI tract converts nutrients, vitamins, and hormones into their active form. Thyroid hormone, the regulator of metabolism requires this activation. The liver and gut is responsible for turning T4 (prohormone) into T3 (active hormone).

Do you crave sweets? It may be an imbalance of the microbes in your gut. Often, it is an overgrowth of Candida in your gut screaming at your brain “Feed me”!

Do you have a rash, eczema, or other skin problems? It may be your gut. Your skin has many functions and one of them is to rid your body of toxins, therefore problems with detoxification and elimination in your gut can, and often do, manifest in your skin.

Are you suddenly unable to lose weight? Were you rapidly losing weight and then…nothing?! It could stem from your gut. Most toxins are stored in fat tissue. When there is rapid weight loss, those toxins are dumped into the body. Therefore, your body switches its focus from losing weight, to protecting itself from this toxic load of toxins. No more weight loss.

Each year, nearly 70 million Americans are affected by digestive diseases, from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Despite normal colonoscopies and upper endoscopies, millions are daily taking acid blocking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 blockers and calcium carbonate for gastric distress; or laxatives like MiraLAX or Dulcolax, to have a bowel movement. These common medications only serve to patch the problem. They do not fix the root of the problem. It is necessary to look at the core functions of our gut in order to properly heal it.

The GI tract has the job of breaking down our food and absorbing the nutrients. It makes vitamins and transforms nutrients into an active bioavailable form the body can use. These fundamental processes take place on the surface layer that comes into contact with the food. This vital surface layer of our GI tract (called the epithelium) is what gets damaged with inflammation due to acid, toxins, food intolerances (gluten, dairy) and infection ( like Salmonella).

The GI tract also has the task of protecting us from everything that we put in our mouths and the average person eats 75,000 to 80,000 pounds of food by the age of 75! The GI tract is the headquarters of our immune system and our first line of defense from food particles and invaders getting into our blood supply. Believe it or not, that important wall of defense is only ONE cell layer thick. Keeping this barrier healthy is the way to prevent and improve food allergies, chronic joint pain, chronic problems like sinusitis and even autoimmune illnesses.

Did you also know that your GI tract makes more neurotransmitters than your brain does? There is a nervous system that lives in the gut with a direct line of communication with the brain. There is also the Hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis which is a signal pathway that the brain uses to communicate with the body in response to stress. Serotonin, for example, the neurotransmitter most known for its contribution to our happiness, is mostly made in our gut. Therefore, the improvement of gut health could be a more prominent focus in mental health to reduce the reliance on antidepressant medication.

Most are now aware that the human GI tract is host to countless microbes (some estimate 100 trillion bacteria alone) that have a powerful impact on human health. These symbiotic organisms serve 4 basic functional categories which covers at least 16 different tasks. When the balance of these microbes becomes disturbed (dysbiosis) by use the use of antibiotics, NSAIDs, exposure to pesticides and infections (both viral and bacterial), we can have problems with indigestion, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea and get labeled with IBS or other syndromes.

Since the beginning of time, we have used out gut as a barometer of what is good for us and what is not. We look to what we feel in the center of our core, to delineate what is best for us in many cases. We often say “trust your gut” or it was “my gut reaction” or my gut instincts tells me…” It is no surprise, then, that the gastrointestinal tract is central to optimal health.

Through advanced stool testing we can assess your gut microbial balance, your current immune response to offenders, your levels of gastric acid and pancreatic enzymes, and the health of the cells that line your GI tract. With this information we can begin the process of returning your gut to an optimal level of function. Please take your gut health seriously and get to the root of your health issues.

It's important to be able to trust your gut!

910 S. El Camino Real
San Clemente, CA 92672
Please call for your appointment
949-363-3162

By Sunao Gilbert, MD, FAARFM, ABAARM

Do you ever wonder why a 70-year-old person may not look a day over 40? Conversely, we have all met the 40-year-old who sadly looks 70.

We are pretty clear on how to age more rapidly than we should e.g., alcohol, tobacco, drugs, fast food, and sodas. But why are we less aware of how to stay young?

Why is it okay to diplomatically receive the answer, “…it’s a part of aging” when you ask your physician “Why am I always tired and have no energy?”

Wellness, youth, what does it mean? Self-esteem? Energy? Low Stress? Quality sleep? Firm and glowing skin? A happy mood? Thick and shiny hair? Strong bones? A fit body? Quality sex? A positive outlook on life? It’s all of the above and it is achievable. However, it takes patience, persistence, and time.

It is an erroneous belief that youthfulness is unattainable and that it is inevitable to spend the golden years of life dilapidated and chronically ill. This myth has been disproven. In fact, there are documented ways to reverse your biological clock. However, it seems that it’s a well-kept secret. But now is the time for the veil to be lifted.

We are not a slave to our genes as was previously taught. We may have a predisposition to a certain illness based on our genes, but what determines whether those certain genes get “turned on” and whether illness becomes a reality, is the environment in which we house our genes.

We know that we are what we eat, and we know it’s important to exercise and maintain a healthy weight, but there is more, much more. So, what is the answer?

The answer is Functional Medicine also known as Regenerative or Anti-Aging Medicine.

Functional Medicine looks at the body as a whole symphony and works to optimize the body on a cellular level so that each organ, its systems and all the body processes are working at an optimal level. When each cell is functioning optimally, the body can work and heal itself as it was designed. Functional Medicine works to fine tune each organ system, biochemically on a cellular level, for the systems to harmonize like a beautiful symphony. It employs advanced testing and in-depth questioning to look for answers and then uses micronutrients, bio-identical hormones, supplements, peptides, pesticide free foods, lifestyle changes and many other modalities to replenish and rebalance the body and mind. It focuses on minimizing environmental toxic exposures, helping the individual achieve quality sleep, good gut health, a healthy weight, a balance between work and relaxation and does not neglect the importance of a robust libido.

Functional Medicine sees complaints such as lack of energy, pain in the joints and rashes as a harbinger of a much larger problem. It looks to find the cause of the symptoms instead of prescribing a medication to quiet your body’s cry for help.

Unfortunately, our current system of medicine focuses on disease, not dysfunction. Consequently, most symptoms are just quelled until they fester into a huge problem that can then be labeled as a disease. Only, then are your medications and testing hopefully covered by insurance.

Your health is an investment. Just like we siphon off earnings into a 401k, we should likewise invest in ourselves so that we may have a quality life, not just a long life. It is well known, what we don’t pay now, we will have to pay later with interest.
So, I invite you to take a deep dive into your health. I dare you to stay young!

910 S. El Camino Real
San Clemente, CA 92672
Please call for your appointment
949-363-3162

Southern California is not just a location in which we reside, but a lifestyle that we live.

Longtime Orange County resident and owner of the Laguna Niguel-based Bronwyn Gorman - Decorating Den Interiors, Bronwyn embraces the unique SoCal lifestyle, and the indoor- outdoor spaces that reflect it.

“We enjoy helping our clients create the perfect look for them and their lifestyle,” says Bronwyn. “Whether it’s one room or one window that you’re interested in redecorating, we’d like to help you do it right the first time! If you’re like many of the clients we work with, you want a beautifully custom designed look, but truly don’t know how to make that vision a reality. The process of decorating a home can feel very overwhelming and quite often reaches the point of frustration that results in projects remaining unfinished or completed with disappointing results.”

You might not be sure of “what” goes “where” – or with “what.” Or, perhaps you might want to begin your design project by building on what you already have, rather than throwing everything out and starting from scratch, but are unsure of how to begin. You might even fear that if you call a professional decorator, your home will end up featuring that decorator’s taste – not yours. And last, but certainly not least, you might not be sure you can afford the services of a professional decorator.

Well fear not! Let the professional, knowledgeable and friendly decorators at Bronwyn Gorman - Decorating Den Interiors put your decorating concerns to rest! From design concept to completion, they’ll help save you valuable time and money by guiding your decision making process through a myriad of functional and decorative ideas. Bronwyn and her team stand behind their commitment to YOU that they will be with you every step of the way.

The list of benefits available to you when you choose to work with a professional decorator goes on and on. The bottom line, however, is that a professionally trained interior decorator can not only make your ideas work better, but they know how to make your decorating dreams a reality! Maybe it’s time to consider calling in the professionals!

BRONWYN GORMAN
Owner | Interior Designer
Decorating Den Interiors
(949) 755-2032
bronwyngorman.decoratingden.com

Usually when my husband and I travel, we’d use the verb “schlep” to describe the general disarray that accompanies our family of four.

Especially if we’ve got the teens in tow - cruising in and out of hotel rooms, or fiddling with yet another key code for a private rental. Nothing could be further from the verbiage I’d use to attempt a recap of our recent stay at La Jolla’s Grande Colonial Hotel. There’s something so special about individually decorated guest rooms, a calming juxtaposition to your typical grey and orange chain stay. iPhone docking stations for the kids, flat-screen televisions for the adults, premium bedding and designer toiletries to take things up a half a notch.

Accommodation options include luxurious ocean, garden, or village view rooms, sumptuous suites and vacation rental studios - each capturing the essence of the quintessential California coastal lifestyle. But the truly satisfying distinction lies in the luxury amenities scattered about this sun kissed San Diego property.

The only Four Diamond Hotel in the Village of La Jolla, The Grande Colonial Hotel has been welcoming guests to a gorgeous coastal respite for over a century. One of the city's oldest original seaside hotels, The Grande Colonial has been completely modernized, yet remains faithful to the timeless elegance of its storied past - the sophisticated decor infused with a classic European ambiance and aesthetic. This intimate, iconic property is ideally situated amidst the pristine beaches and regal bluffs of one of Southern California’s most picturesque coastal towns.

From a family staycation standpoint, there is literally something for the everyone right outside the doors - steps from all of the shops, art galleries, restaurants and favored local coffee spots. As far as I'm concerned, anytime of year is the ideal time to visit.

As fledgling foodies, my husband and I are fans of the casually elegant farm-to-table dining experience at NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar on site. Led by nationally recognized chef, Jason Knibb, the local harvest dictates his "globally inspired, locally sourced" seasonal menu. I love, love crudo and both the hamachi sashimi and the Ahi tuna appetizers were incredibly flavorful (the first with marinated baby shiitake mushrooms and the latter with a Calabri chili and Meyer lemon relish), while kids devoured their signature NINE-TEN angus burgers.

Other popular dishes on the menu at the time of this writing range from pan seared Maine sea scallops enhanced with roasted Matsutake mushroom, the pan-roasted Colorado lamb loin with maitake mushroom and another favorite - pan-seared black cod accompanied by braised leeks, roasted cauliflower mushroom, yuzu and white wine leek broth.

Health club, glittering outdoor pool, and an incredible restaurant and bar serving globally inspired locally sourced cuisine. A culinary excursion through classic California farm-to-table fare, end your day of activity outside (the hotel is just moments from ziplining courses, swimming, sailing, scuba, kayaking and more) with a crisp ocean view. No schlepping allowed.

The Grande Colonial Hotel
910 Prospect Street
La Jolla
(858) 454-2181

Morena Tile and Stone, in San Juan Capistrano, is a 5000 square foot store showcasing one of the largest selections of tile, and natural and engineered stone in South Orange County. The business was opened in 2014 by John Schrab and his wife, Linda, with the goal of creating a convenient, local resource where one can find an abundance of fun, imaginative and up-to-date tile and stone – all under one roof.

As a family-owned business, John and Linda focus on customer service and building relationships with their clients, while helping to bring their projects to life. From mild to wild and traditional to modern, they will assist in finding the perfect materials for your dream kitchen or bath. Morena’s designers are on hand to assist customers with navigating through the myriad of choices to get their project started and they serve as a resource every step of the way – from concept to completion.

Homeowners, designers and contractors love the vast product selection and convenience of shopping locally, in a store where everyone knows your name. John, a 4th Generation tile and stone contractor, is willing and available to answer your questions and provide advice on materials, design, and installation. He believes in treating cus¬tomers like family and understands what it takes to make your project come to fruition.

Whether you’re undertaking a major home renovation, updating your kitchen island or installing a tile floor, Morena Tile & Stone offers all of the necessary components to manage your project in-house. Along with a gorgeous variety of materials for you to choose from, there’s also an on-site fabrication shop with a crew of master craftsmen that have worked for John for decades. This level of experience and cutting-edge technology, combined with old-world craftsmanship, provides clients with the reassurance that their project will be done correctly and beautifully. As John likes to say, “We make things pretty every day.”

Visit Morena Tile & Stone when you’re ready to embark on your next home improvement project. John and Linda would love the opportunity to offer you a cup of coffee while you look around, and they’d be proud to add you to their long list of satisfied customers.

Little Johnny with his pop, granddaddy and great gramps, 4 generations of tile guys.

32951 Calle Perfecto
San Juan Capistrano
(949) 489-8990
www.tileandmarble.com

Do you ever wonder why a 70-year-old person may not look a day over 40? Conversely, we have all met the 40-year-old who sadly looks 70.

We are pretty clear on how to age more rapidly than we should e.g., alcohol, tobacco, drugs, fast food, and sodas. But why are we less aware of how to stay young?

Why is it okay to diplomatically receive the answer, “…it’s a part of aging” when you ask your physician “Why am I always tired and have no energy?”

Wellness, youth, what does it mean? Self-esteem? Energy? Low Stress? Quality sleep? Firm and glowing skin? A happy mood? Thick and shiny hair? Strong bones? A fit body? Quality sex? A positive outlook on life? It’s all of the above and it is achievable. However, it takes patience, persistence, and time.

It is an erroneous belief that youthfulness is unattainable and that it is inevitable to spend the golden years of life dilapidated and chronically ill. This myth has been disproven. In fact, there are documented ways to reverse your biological clock. However, it seems that it’s a well-kept secret. But now is the time for the veil to be lifted.

We are not a slave to our genes as was previously taught. We may have a predisposition to a certain illness based on our genes, but what determines whether those certain genes get “turned on” and whether illness becomes a reality, is the environment in which we house our genes.

We know that we are what we eat, and we know it’s important to exercise and maintain a healthy weight, but there is more, much more. So, what is the answer?

The answer is Functional Medicine also known as Regenerative or Anti-Aging Medicine.

Functional Medicine looks at the body as a whole symphony and works to optimize the body on a cellular level so that each organ, its systems and all the body processes are working at an optimal level. When each cell is functioning optimally, the body can work and heal itself as it was designed. Functional Medicine works to fine tune each organ system, biochemically on a cellular level, for the systems to harmonize like a beautiful symphony. It employs advanced testing and in-depth questioning to look for answers and then uses micronutrients, bio-identical hormones, supplements, peptides, pesticide free foods, lifestyle changes and many other modalities to replenish and rebalance the body and mind. It focuses on minimizing environmental toxic exposures, helping the individual achieve quality sleep, good gut health, a healthy weight, a balance between work and relaxation and does not neglect the importance of a robust libido.

Functional Medicine sees complaints such as lack of energy, pain in the joints and rashes as a harbinger of a much larger problem. It looks to find the cause of the symptoms instead of prescribing a medication to quiet your body’s cry for help.

Unfortunately, our current system of medicine focuses on disease, not dysfunction. Consequently, most symptoms are just quelled until they fester into a huge problem that can then be labeled as a disease. Only, then are your medications and testing hopefully covered by insurance.

Your health is an investment. Just like we siphon off earnings into a 401k, we should likewise invest in ourselves so that we may have a quality life, not just a long life. It is well known, what we don’t pay now, we will have to pay later with interest.
So, I invite you to take a deep dive into your health. I dare you to stay young!

910 S. El Camino Real
San Clemente, CA 92672
Please call for your appointment
949-363-3162

When he visits HAMMER & NAILS | Men’s Grooming Shop in the Ocean Ranch Village in Laguna Niguel, his most difficult decision centers around which premium beverage to enjoy and what cable program to watch on his own personal big-screen TV while receiving his services. Providing a full-range of experiences from Premium Haircuts, Beard Grooming and Old-School Straight-Razor shaves to their cornerstone experiences for Hand & Foot Grooming (Men’s MANicures & Pedicures), as well as services such as Facials and Facial Waxing (eyebrows, ears & nose), making it his premier one-stop destination for confidence to always look and feel his absolute best.

“We’ve built a ‘Man Cave’ and it has everything you’d expect,” says the owner, Beverly Shepherd. Adding, “Our guests can relax without all the astringent smells you typically find at normal nail salons. Instead detecting the subtle scents of cedar, leather, and steel. We have an incredibly cool custom ‘57-Chevy lighted door panel that welcomes guests before being warmly greeted by one of our Client Concierge’s.”

When you first arrive, your eyes are immediately drawn to the larger-than-life graphic of sparks exploding from the Hammer and is impacts the steel beneath it. As you are still taking in the rugged, weathered corrugated steel wall behind the reception counter, you are greeted with a warm friendly smile, offered your choice of a premium complimentary beverage including choices such as Ketel One® Vodka, Macallan®, Crown Royal®, selection of craft beers, wine, or soft drinks.

Beverly first came to America from the Philippines in 2009. Shortly after she met her husband, Michael while she was working at the Nordstrom cosmetics counter in Fashion Island. Beverly & Michael married in 2017 in a romantic beach ceremony at the El Nido Resort in the Philippines. Mike sold his previous company, an electronics & materials test lab, in 2015 and they wanted to start a new business together. After seeing the episode on SHARK TANK® featuring the original founder of Hammer & Nails, they decided to open the first HAMMER & NAILS Franchise in Orange County in Laguna Niguel and just celebrated their 4th anniversary for the shop.

Bev & Mike have assembled a team of the top talent in Orange County providing 5-Star services to local residents as well as many from out of the area and those vacationing at one of the many local luxury resorts in the area. “With couples getting married at these amazing resorts, many will schedule groomsman parties to be sure they are all looking sharp and “on point” for their special day,” Beverly stated. While our incredible Barbers/Stylist can keep anyone looking their best and have proven time-and-time again their confidence and skill for clients seeking a new look and even a total transformational haircut style. Beverly also added, “it is not uncommon for gentlemen to visit our shop each month and spend several hours, starting with a Premium Haircut and Shave or Facial then relaxing in our Hand & Foot Grooming Man Cave for one of our Signature Manicure/Pedicures combos like the Big Daddy Aromatherapy.

“It was a good experience for me. I was there after a tough day and felt welcomed. I have received several compliments on the haircut and will be back for more soon. Thank you.” - T. Alvarez

“Another great experience at Hammer & Nails. I don’t live in the area but often visit friends in Dana Point and Laguna Niguel who turned me on to Hammer & Nails so I always try to stop in for a haircut or manicure/pedicure. I think this was my 4th visit. The stylists and nail techs are skilled and friendly, and you can enjoy a complimentary adult beverage during your appointment. Terrific!” - E. Rodgers

“The place was “hopping”, but I never felt overlooked or unattended to. When my turn came around, I certainly felt the personal touch your business has always provided me. Found a new addiction too, my first facial experience has left me yearning for more.” - D. Brask

“You guys are doing great. I called Friday afternoon in search for a manicurist for an urgent need of a pedicure due to a painful ingrown toenail. My manicurist was unavailable. I was hesitant to drive from Irvine to Laguna Niguel but your receptionist talked me into. She was right. 20 minutes. Not bad. I was seated right away and offered a beverage. Jack & Coke in a crystal short. Nice! The manicurist, I wish I knew her name, was amazing. She talked me through the service and help relieve my pain. The Jack & Coke helped. She did an awesome job! - F. Mejia

“I’m a repeat customer and always treated well, have a good experience.” - T. Gallagher

“Service is always prompt, excellent and friendly. BEST IN CLASS” - G. Powell

“You took really good care of my elderly father who has many foot and toenail issues. The staff was all very kind.” - R. Misiow

PREMIUM & CLASSIC SERVICES INCLUDE

• Haircuts
• Straight-Razor Shaves
• Beard Grooming
• Face Treatments
• Facial Waxing
• MANicures
• Pedicures

PREMIUM TREATMENTS

These Premium MANicure/Pedicure Combo are the Signature Services of HAMMER & Nails found nowhere else and are the service that places us a level above any other nail salon for Men. All our Premium Pedicure services include callus resurfacing, infused signature scrub, hand & foot massage, nail care (clip, file, and buff), finishing with warm paraffin on your hands & feet, and our steamed towel wrap.
The Jack Hammer Experience - Rich, liquid-gold from fingers to toes.

• The Hops & Cedar Experience - Beer-lover’s bliss. 
• The Big Daddy Experience - Refresh & relax with our most popular Hand & Foot experience. 
• The Milk & Honey Experience - Saturate your skin in luxury.
• Sports Pedicure - Sore muscle relief for our most active guests. 
• Essential Tea Tree Pedicure - For feet needing extra TLC.

HAMMER & NAILS is active in the community a Members of the Chamber of Commerce for both Laguna Niguel and Dana Point. They also actively sponsor and contribute to many of the local schools and community events. Bev & Mike and their entire staff take a great deal of pride in providing exceptional services to the community and have enjoyed getting to know their clients and other local business owners

We look forward to meeting you at:
HAMMER & NAILS
32411 Golden Lantern, Unit H, Laguna Niguel
Book you appointment at HNGrooming.com or call/text 949.340.3559