Best Delta 8 Brands [2023] : Top THC Brands Reviewed
If you're searching for the best delta-8 discounts and offers, we've done all the hard work for you! Read on to find out the best brands to get at discounted prices.
If you prefer a mellow buzz instead of an overpowering one, Delta 8 is the perfect cannabinoid for you.
Many cannabis brands offer Delta 8 products, but only the best ones can provide quality. From sourcing the purest hemp to turning it into a clean and potent Delta 8 product, they provide your money’s worth.
But how do you know you’re buying from a trustworthy Delta 8 brand?
Don’t worry! In this article, we’ll tell you the 5 best Delta 8 brands we have shortlisted after personally trying out 20+ options. We’ll also elaborate on how they stand out from the rest.
So, without taking any more time, let’s get started!
Are you living in a state where many medicinal and recreational products are banned? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our article on the best delta 8 brands! While other products may be restricted, delta 8 is still allowed due to a unique legal loophole.
Delta 8 is a cannabis compound that offers users a psychoactive experience, often described as a milder version of THC. Our team went on an adventurous journey, hopping from one delta 8 store to another, to bring you the most reliable and exceptional delta-8 brands available. We analyzed each company’s processes, products, scientific methods, and customer reviews.
After thorough research, we selected four outstanding Delta 8 companies that stand out in terms of quality and uniqueness. So, sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the world of Delta-8 products!
Oh, and if you’re curious, our number one recommendation is Exhale. Stay tuned to learn more
Exhale Wellness has outdone itself in leading the cannabis industry as far as high-quality delta-8 products are concerned. Based in Los Angeles, the company is known for using strictly organic ingredients in making all the products in its line. Quality is a priority at Exhale Wellness. Hence, we have the pleasure of recommending their products.
The brand also has a reputation for its potent cartridges than other brands in the cannabis/delta-8 industry. The cartridge also gives users a high that soothes and provides relief, especially at the end of a busy day.
We always want to look for the hemp source when buying delta-8 gummies. Exhale Wellness’s products contain hemp cultivated in Colorado, where the practice is to produce hemp naturally.
The products are made using organic full-spectrum hemp. The hemp is non-GMO, which makes the brand even more credible. They also use sustainable farming practices.
Their collection includes many excellent products, including delta-8 gummies, tinctures, flowers, and vape carts. You will love this collection and enjoy the feeling they provide.
Highlights/Features
1. Safe and Effective Extraction Method: Exhale Wellness uses the CO2 method to extract hemp, meaning that the product is highly concentrated and of superior quality. In addition, they do not use any chemicals during the production process.
2. Organic Ingredients: Another highlight is that the products in their line are organic and vegan, as they contain no animal-based ingredients.
3. Third-Party Lab Tests: The products are all sent to a third-party lab for testing. The tests are carried out at independent labs; hence, you can rest assured that the vape carts, flowers, and gummies contain no harmful substances.
4. Excellent Customer Reviews: Most importantly, the site and its products have received positive customer reviews. Many customers feel happy to know that they use Exhale products to achieve a legal, safe, and uplifting high. Furthermore, the packaging also has a list of dosage instructions, which is excellent for newbies.
#2. BudPop: Highest Quality Delta 8 Brand for Hemp Products
The BudPop team primarily aims to increase awareness of the benefits and healing qualities of the hemp plant. They create premium delta-8 THC products that help people be at ease, have a good time, relieve anxiety, and enjoy themselves.
A group of entrepreneurs created the brand with a common interest in pushing the limits of hemp and the beneficial cannabinoids it contains. While they package it with the younger generation in mind, everyone should give this company a trial, irrespective of their age.
This Delta 8 company is earnest with third-party testing, and its website provides information about the lab reports for every product it offers. They also have gummies, carts, flowers, and others for sale. None of their products contain reagents or additives for flavoring. Instead, they achieve their flavors from plant terpenes.
Highlights/Features
1. Transparency: Before proceeding, you must know that this Delta 8 brand cares about third-party lab testing. It’s so clear that they prioritize making their products pure for use because on the website, you’d find lab testing results printed on the right, where you can click and read. So, if any product captures your interest, you can read about it and know just how potent and safe it is.
2. Great-Tasting Flavors: Although the company has limited flavors, they are pretty delicious. For example, they have vape carts in Grape Runtz and Strawberry Gelato, with the gummies available in Blue Dream Berry, Strawberry Gelato, and Watermelon Zkittlez. Being limited gives them enough time to ensure that their available flavors are of the best quality.
3. Free of Impurities: Also, you’ll find out that the carts are pretty clean. If you’re buying a vape cart here, you wouldn’t have to worry about agents like MCT, PG, VG, Vitamin E, or PEG.
#3. Hollyweed CBD: Popular Delta-8 Brand For Wide Variety of Organic Products
The core goal of Hollyweed is to ensure that its customers get CBD and delta-8 products of the best quality. Apart from being organic hemp sources, they are also safe and source the best oils that go into their products.
You need to visit their official website to see the list of gummies and vapes you can get. When it comes to delta-8 products, you’d be amazed at the plethora of options you’d have to choose from.
Highlights/Features
1. Excellent Delta-8 Gummies: The delta-8 THC gummies are probably the most popular product they offer. They are affordable, making them very popular among users (both old and new).
2. Federally Compliant: The brand ensures that all of its products are federally compliant by containing 0.3% or less of delta-9 THC. You also have a variety of strains and flavors as options.
3. Third-Party Lab Testing: This delta-8 THC company also cares about third-party lab testing. All the products have a third-party test backing, which assures delta-8 customers that what they’re getting is safe for consumption.
4. Customer-Centric Policies: They also have a commendable return policy and shipping policy. Getting your items delivered will take three to seven days, and if you are unsatisfied with any item, you can take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
The hemp is of high quality and is grown in the U.S.
It is completely natural
Cruelty-free
Users love the brand
Top-quality products for reasonable prices
You have a 30-day money-back guarantee to take advantage of
Shipping is free
Cons
Compared to other leading brands, there are not enough reviews
At Cheef Botanicals Delta-8 products are crafted with utmost care and precision, using only the finest organic hemp extracts. They focus on producing Delta-8 items of the highest caliber, created to take your experience to new heights.
But what sets Cheef Botanicals on fire? To guarantee the integrity and efficacy of their Delta-8 products, they are unwavering in their commitment to procuring quality, organic hemp and using exacting manufacturing procedures. You may be confident that you’re indulging the best goodness of Delta-8 products with each puff or bite.
Highlights/Features:
1. Transparency: In order to guarantee the purity and security of its products, Cheef Botanicals places a high value on Third-party lab testing and makes lab findings easily accessible on its website.
2. Great Flavors: Despite having a small selection, they have wonderful, premium flavors that improve the CBD experience as a whole.
3. Free of Impurities: The vape carts from Cheef Botanicals are especially pure because they don’t contain any additives like MCT, PG, VG, Vitamin E, or PEG.
#5. DopeBoo: Best Delta 8 brands for a wide variety of flavors
If you are looking for trustworthy Delta 8 brands offering high-quality products, DopeBoo is the best headshop to explore. It provides a wide range of products from some of the leading Delta 8 brands like Exhale, Hollyweed CBD, Puff Xtrax, and Sweet Lyfe.
You will find everything you want, from Delta 8 flowers and gummies to vapes, cartridges, pre-rolls, capsules, live resins, and oil. DopeBoo ensures that the products these Delta 8 brands offer are pure hemp-derived and third-party tested. Plus, the prices are so affordable they won’t break your bank.
Unlike other brands that usually take more than 4-5 days to deliver the products, DopeBoo ensures your products are delivered within 1 to 3 days, depending on your location. To add a cherry on top, DopeBoo can ship your favorite D8 products virtually anywhere worldwide except in areas where the product is illegal.
Their site is simple and easy to navigate, with a specified section where you can find all the featured products from these top Delta 8 brands, making shopping super easy and time-saving.
Highlights/Features
Offers all 3 strains – DopeBoo offers Delta 8 products in all three strains, including Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid. So, whether you seek energy and focus, relaxing effects, or a mix of both, Dopeboo’s got your back.
40+ best-selling flavors – DopeBoo’s Delta 8 brands offer a wide variety of flavors to choose from, including Pineapple Express, Forbidden Fruit, Watermelon Zkittles, Monster Kush, and more, making it a perfect choice for people who love to explore new experiences.
Prices start at just $14.99 – One of DopeBoo’s top brands, Golden Goat, offers pre-rolls at $14.99 for each 75mg of Delta-8. So, you can find something that matches your taste and preferences irrespective of your budget.
Pros
Pure hemp-derived Delta 8
Unending variety at reasonable prices
10% off on the first order
24/7 customer support is available
Free shipping on orders above $50
Cons
Does not ship on weekends
How We Made the List of Top Delta 8 Brands
All companies that produce delta-8 THC have a common purpose. They all claim to offer the same benefits using high-quality hemp and the best production practices in the industry. Some Delta 8 companies fail to deliver on this promise, while others do not. So, we had to separate the good from the bad.
The Criteria We Used for Selecting Best Delta 8 Brands
Our editorial team has filtered the best and worst delta 8 brands using the following criteria:
Legal/Safe Operations: When considering a delta-8 brand, the first box to check is whether or not they comply with federal laws. The quantity of delta-9 present in delta 8 is not more than 0.3%, which means it complies with federal regulations and is legal almost everywhere. However, it is illegal in some states. We have chosen only brands that operate according to the law and do not ship to places where it is not legal. The products also undergo tests to ensure their delta-9 THC content is strictly 0.3% or less.
Transparency in Lab Testing Reports: The best delta 8 brands and CBD are honest and transparent regarding lab test reports. They provide the reports online so that customers can easily see the products’ exact content. On the other hand, inferior companies do not publicize their lab test reports or do not go through the testing process. Since delta-8 is becoming more and more popular, we checked and verified the lab test reports before recommending the products.
Hemp Source: Many delta 8 brands in the U.S work with local farmers to get the hemp they use for their products. We compiled a list featuring companies that revealed their hemp source, especially those that source from organic growers.
Brand Reputation: Due to the recent popularity of delta-8, it is easy for customers to get lost in the sea of producers. This list features producers with an excellent reputation, especially brands with a track record for delivering high-quality delta-8 gummies, vapes, pre-rolls, oils, and other products.
Customer Reviews: It is necessary to find out what other customers are saying about the products. After all, one foolproof way of knowing the quality of a product is by finding out what real customers have said about it. From the reviews, we got to know whether customers were satisfied with the results of the delta-8 products in terms of enjoyment, relief, taste, excellent customer service, and absence of adverse side effects. We also read similar articles, revealing what users said, including honest product reviews and star ratings.
Shipping and Returns: We considered companies that offered products with fair shipping and return policies. After all, replacing a defective product or something different from what you ordered may be necessary. We also had to confirm their reasonable shipping fees and delivery times. Some people want to relieve pains, aches, and anxiety with delta-8. Hence, it was essential to consider affordable and speedy delivery when choosing what brands to feature on this list.
Price and Value: Finally, we evaluated the price as this is something that many people tend to consider first. We looked into the price range once we found a delta-8 brand that showed potential. We aim to provide a guide that focuses on the health benefits and the different budget categories. Besides, a compelling delta-8 brand with prices in the medium to high range is better than a brand that offers low prices and needs clarification.
What Is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 is a type of cannabinoid found in hemp and cannabis plants. It’s similar to THC, the main compound in marijuana that gets you high, but Delta 8 is slightly less potent. It offers a milder high and is legal in some states where traditional THC is not.
People use Delta 8 for relaxation, stress relief, and mood improvement. It’s available in various forms, including edibles, oils, and vapes. Its milder effects make it a popular choice for those new to cannabis products.
How does it Work?
Delta 8 interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters responsible for maintaining balance and harmony within the body. Similar to its close relative Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 binds with the CB1 receptors found primarily in the central nervous system, albeit with a milder psychotropic effect. This interaction triggers a cascade of reactions that can lead to various physiological and psychological effects.
When consumed, Delta 8 enters the bloodstream and eventually reaches the brain, where it influences the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. The result is a subtle yet blissful state of relaxation and euphoria, often accompanied by improved mood and reduced stress.
Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10 THC are three distinct compounds that belong to the larger family of cannabinoids. While they share similarities, key differences set them apart in terms of their effects, legality, and availability. Understanding these differences is crucial for consumers seeking to make informed choices.
Delta 8 THC is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that occurs naturally in the cannabis plant but in lower concentrations compared to Delta 9 THC. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, producing a subtle euphoric effect accompanied by relaxation and clarity. Many users appreciate Delta 8 THC’s potential to provide a more balanced experience, with reduced anxiety and paranoia compared to Delta 9 THC.
Delta 9 THC, often referred to simply as THC, is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It is responsible for the well-known “high” associated with marijuana use. Delta 9 THC binds strongly to the CB1 receptors in the brain, resulting in potent psychotropic effects. It is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in many countries, including the United States, where its use is restricted to medical and recreational purposes in certain states.
Delta 10 THC, while less well-known than Delta 8 and Delta 9, is gaining attention for its unique properties. It is believed to be an isomer of Delta 9 THC, meaning they have the same molecular formula but differ in their arrangement of atoms. Delta 10 THC is considered to have a more uplifting and energizing effect than its counterparts, though further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits.
Regarding legality, Delta 8 THC has gained popularity due to its legal status in certain jurisdictions where Delta 9 THC remains restricted. This has led to the emergence of Delta 8 products, including edibles, vape cartridges, and tinctures, that are more readily available to consumers.
When considering the purchase of Delta 8, Delta 9, or Delta 10 THC products, choosing reputable brands prioritizing quality and safety is important. Conducting thorough research, reading customer reviews, and seeking third-party lab testing results can help ensure a positive and reliable experience. Delta 9 gummies are as popular as Delta 8 gummies.
How to Select the Best Delta 8 Products
Let’s look at some things you should watch out for as you shop for Delta 8 products.
The Ingredients
Ensure that the delta-8 brand you choose uses natural ingredients. Artificial flavors/colors or gelatin are some of the ingredients that some companies tend to add. However, these additives are not harmful, and some of our listed delta 8 brands today even use them.
But, what you may have in mind is to get a completely organic product from d8 brand without any artificial ingredients or additives. Ensure that you go through the ingredients label to confirm that there’s no added ingredient you don’t want.
Third-Party Laboratory Testing
Most manufacturers that deal in delta-8 edibles, oils, flowers, etc., ensure that they send their items for tests at third-party labs. After testing, they would also create a report about the product’s purity.
Some companies send the distillate over for checking, including the final product. To get the best quality delta-8 products, always ensure that you choose brands that do both.
The Hemp Farming Processes
The best way to ensure more hemp is grown is through sustainable farming processes, allowing a harvest of more products in the coming years.
Because you will be getting the plant naturally, non-GMO practices are better. Always choose a brand that uses hemp that’s grown in the U.S.
Hints of Delta-9
On legal grounds, it is a must that delta-8 THC products contain less than 0.3% of delta-9. Presently, there aren’t a lot of regulations surrounding delta-8 because its cannabis market is still fresh. Anything above 0.3% illegal is not only illegal but can also be vital for frequent users.
You can go through lap reports and third-party lab testing details to see the list of ingredients in the products and their amounts.
User Reviews (Company Reputation)
You can view how well customers enjoyed the product by checking the customer reviews. However, you shouldn’t only look at reviews posted on the company’s official website.
Try checking third-party websites where you can get legit reviews – not just the good ones, but the bad and the ugly ones. A product with most of its reviews as positive but still has about one to three negative reviews could be a recommendable purchase. But stay clear of the product if there are too many negative reviews.
Benefits of Delta 8 THC
Delta 8 offers a range of benefits that have caught the interest of many looking for a less intense alternative to traditional THC products. Here are some of the benefits of Delta 8 THC.
Milder High – Delta 8 THC is known for providing a gentler high that allows users to remain more clear-headed and functional.
Stress and Anxiety Relief – Many users turn to Delta 8 THC for its ability to soothe stress and alleviate anxiety. Its calming effects can help create a sense of peace and relaxation without the intense psychoactive experience.
Pain Relief – Delta 8 THC has shown promise in managing chronic pain. Users report significant relief from various types of pain, which makes it a potential alternative to traditional pain management strategies.
Improved Sleep Quality – For those struggling with sleep issues, Delta 8 THC can be a gift. Its relaxing properties help promote more restful and deeper sleep, aiding those with insomnia or irregular sleep patterns.
Appetite Stimulation – Delta 8 THC can also stimulate appetite. This is particularly beneficial for individuals facing appetite loss due to medical treatments or health conditions, helping them maintain a healthy intake of nutrients.
Types of Delta 8 Products
People love Delta 8 products for relaxation, pain relief, and a slight euphoric feeling without the strong intensity often associated with cannabis. But the best Delta 8 brands ensure you can explore this mellow cannabinoid in various delightful forms. Here’s a simple breakdown of the many types of Delta 8 products you can find:
Delta 8 Gummies and Edibles – These are tasty, chewable treats infused with Delta 8. They’re easy to consume, with effects that last longer than other forms because they’re digested. Perfect for those who prefer not to inhale anything.
Delta 8 Vapes and Cartridges – For quick effects, Delta 8 vapes and cartridges are inhaled directly into the lungs. They’re popular for their fast-acting relief and convenience but require a vape pen or a similar device.
Delta 8 Tinctures – These are liquid extracts you can take under the tongue for fast absorption. They allow for precise dosing, making finding your ideal amount for relaxation or pain relief easier.
Delta 8 Topicals – Creams and lotions infused with Delta 8 are applied directly to the skin. They’re great for targeted relief of aches and pains without the psychoactive effects.
FAQs Related To Delta 8 THC Brands
Q1. Are there Any Health Issues Delta-8 Can Help With?
We can’t particularly state any medical-related claims about this product because we are not medical doctors. You should consult your doctor or healthcare provider if you want answers of such magnitude.
However, we can offer information about what delta-8 may be able to help with. This cannabinoid assists in relieving stress, anxiety, and depression because it provides a soothing and relaxing high.
Q2. Delta-8: What Is It? Will It Make Me High?
Yes, delta-8 will make you high if you ingest it. It is a psychoactive cannabinoid with a natural content in every slight trace within help and cannabis. Makers of delta-8 products have to synthesize it from CBD because it occurs in such small amounts.
Q3. How Should Delta-8 Products Be Stored?
It is a common thought that it’s best to store delta-8 products in the refrigerator. However, this is not true for most brands. As long as your delta-8 products are kept away from direct sunlight and in a cool, dry, dark place, they will remain in good condition.
Q4. What are the most reputable Delta 8 brands?
Some of the most reputable Delta 8 brands include Exhale, DopeBoo, and Budpop. They offer a wide range of potent Delta 8 products in multiple flavors at an affordable price and are usually third-party tested for purity and effectiveness.
Q5. Where is the safest place to order Delta 8 from?
DopeBoo is one of the safest places to order Delta 8 products from, as it ensures the products offered by Delta 8 brands are pure-hemp derived. The Delta 8 brands are transparent about how and from where they source their products, ensuring transparency and creditability.
Q6. What states is delta-8 legal in?
Some of the states where Delta 8 is legal are California, Hawaii, Kansas, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and more.
Q7. Which Delta 8 THC brands have a wide variety of products available?
Brands like Exhale Wellness, Hollyweed, Cheef, and Budpop offer a wide variety of Delta 8 THC products. These brands typically have many options, including the best Delta 8 THC gummies, tinctures, vape cartridges, edibles, and more.
Q8. Can you recommend Delta 8 THC brands that use organic and natural ingredients?
Exhale Wellness and Hollyweed are reputable Delta 8 THC brands known for using organic and natural ingredients in their products. They prioritize providing customers with a more natural and holistic experience.
Q9. Are there any Delta 8 THC brands known for their high-quality manufacturing processes?
Exhale Wellness is recognized for its high-quality manufacturing processes. They maintain strict quality control measures throughout their production, ensuring that their Delta 8 THC products meet the highest standards of quality and consistency.
Q10. What are the customer reviews and ratings for popular Delta 8 THC brands?
Customer reviews and ratings for Delta 8 THC brands can vary, and it’s important to conduct thorough research to get a comprehensive understanding. However, popular Delta 8 THC brands like Exhale Wellness, Hollyweed, Cheef, and Budpop generally receive positive reviews from customers, with many praising their product quality, effects, and customer service.
Q11. Do Delta 8 THC brands offer any discounts or promotions for their products?
Delta 8 THC brands often provide discounts and promotions for their products. It’s recommended to visit the websites of Exhale Wellness, Hollyweed, Cheef, and Budpop to check for any ongoing discounts, promotions, or loyalty programs they may offer. Additionally, following their social media accounts or subscribing to their newsletters can keep you informed about special offers and deals.
The Delta 8 market is rapidly expanding, and there are many brands to choose from. However, not all Delta 8 brands are created equal. Exhale Wellness stands out from the crowd when it comes to finding a reliable and high-quality Delta 8 product.
Their commitment to transparency, quality ingredients, and customer satisfaction makes them a top choice for anyone looking to try delta 8 products. With a range of products to choose from and a reputation for excellence, Exhale Wellness is a brand that you can trust.
Give them a try and experience the benefits of delta 8 for yourself.
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Studio S
SEPTEMBER 11, 2026
Vi at La Jolla Village – Senior Living in the Heart of Everything
At Vi at La Jolla Village, residents don't have to choose between security and adventure, connection and independence. They get all of it.
Today’s seniors are more connected than ever, with a renewed focus on retirement as a time of discovery and enriching experiences. The ultimate reward for a retirement well-earned is the wisdom to appreciate it all, and what better place to enjoy that unique perspective than Vi at La Jolla Village, in the heart of San Diego.
All-access pass to good living.
As a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), Vi provides access to a connected and fulfilling community while making it easy to plan for future care, should the need ever arise. With a care plan in place, residents enjoy greater financial predictability and long-term value, freeing them to focus on making the most out of retirement.
Resort-style amenities at the epicenter of a cultural hub like San Diego offer a retirement experience unlike any other. Paired with exceptional dining, spacious accommodations and dedicated staff, the best of maintenance-free living is all around. And with the introduction of Vista 360 Well-Being, Vi’s panoramic approach to wellness, there are more ways than ever for residents to access it all.
The harmony of mind, body and community.
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village
The key to longevity is striking the right balance in maintaining an active lifestyle with an active mind in a fulfilling community. With newly renovated community spaces and restaurants, Vista brings a variety of opportunities for residents to elevate their well-being through Vi-exclusive “Signature Experiences.”
Vista Enrich takes an evidence-based approach to brain vitality, keeping residents at the forefront of cognitive health through exergaming (exercising + gaming), nutritional plans and informative workshops. It is also home to The Brain Vitality Studio, an innovative facility dedicated to cognitive fitness that has garnered national recognition.
Vista Discover invites residents into stimulating educational experiences, from chef-led cooking demos and guided wine tastings to lectures at local universities and intimate lectures following cultural outings.
While Vista Enrich focuses on brain health and Vista Discover engages residents intellectually, Vista Explore cultivates a sense of adventure through curated travel and local excursions. But broadening one’s horizons doesn’t always require a plane ticket. One recent event brought a taste of the world right to the community: an onsite “jazz cruise” featuring live music and global cuisine served at a series of themed “ports” all within the community’s own ballroom.
“Location, location, location”
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village
One of the biggest perks of life at Vi at La Jolla Village is its proximity to just about everything. With easy access to transportation and local attractions just steps away, residents can explore and engage with their community at their own pace.
“There are trolley and bus stops within a 5-minute walk that will get you to the beach, UCSD Campus, medical appointments, downtown La Jolla or San Diego, et cetera. We rarely use our car,” said resident Tom Yager.
With the best of San Diego just steps away, residents don’t just live in the city, they live within reach of everything that makes it special.
The best of all worlds.
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village
At Vi at La Jolla Village, retirement isn’t a chapter to slow down; it’s an invitation to discover more. Tailored community experiences created by Vista, paired with the vibrant pulse of San Diego just outside the door, mean that residents don’t have to choose between security and adventure, connection and independence. They get all of it.
This is what an all-access pass to good living looks like: the comforts of an elevated lifestyle, a community built for growth and a city made for discovery – all in one place.
To learn more about Vi at La Jolla Village or for details on available floor plans, visit ViatLaJollaVillage.com/SDM.
In May 2026, Dr. Noran Barry performed Southern California’s first robotic-assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy since the procedure received FDA approval. The milestone brought a new option for patients facing breast cancer surgery. It also reflects the specialized care available through Sharp Rees-Stealy Medical Group, where Dr. Barry works alongside other doctors and specialists as part of a coordinated care team.
Dr. Barry is a fellowship-trained breast cancer surgeon with Sharp Rees-Stealy and Sharp HealthCare’s medical director of breast health. She is affiliated with Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women & Newborns and Sharp Memorial Hospital. Sharp Mary Birch was the first hospital in Southern California and one of just 15 in the United States to offer the procedure.
For a patient considering a mastectomy, treating cancer is the first concern. Questions about appearance, sensation and recovery matter, too. Robotic-assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy gives Dr. Barry another way to address those concerns while working with patients and their care teams on the treatment ahead.
What makes the procedure different
A nipple-sparing mastectomy removes breast tissue while preserving the nipple and surrounding tissue for reconstruction. Dr. Barry uses a single-port robotic system, guiding surgical instruments and a high-definition camera through one small incision. She can often place that incision in a less visible area, such as near the underarm.
That placement can leave a smaller, more hidden scar than a traditional mastectomy. Preserving tissue for reconstruction may also help create a more natural-looking breast. In some cases, the surgery may preserve nerves in the remaining tissue and help maintain breast sensation.
Compared with traditional methods, the robotic-assisted approach may offer less blood loss during surgery, less pain during recovery and a faster recovery. Early results also suggest a lower likelihood of nipple necrosis, a complication in which loss of blood flow damages the nipple and areola.
For Dr. Barry, the ability to place the incision strategically is especially meaningful. It allows her to treat the cancer while considering the scar a patient will see after surgery. Along with reconstruction, that detail can make a difference to someone adjusting to changes in their body.
Care that continues beyond surgery
Breast cancer care extends beyond one surgical technique. At Sharp Rees-Stealy, doctors and specialists work together to support patients through decisions about their care. The medical group’s breast cancer navigation program also supports patients as they move through diagnosis, treatment and the steps that follow.
That team approach is evident in Dr. Barry’s work. After she performs the breast surgery, plastic surgeons complete the reconstruction. Together, their work addresses the cancer treatment and the patient’s appearance after surgery. Dr. Barry understands how difficult breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be, and how meaningful it is to offer an option that may help patients feel more like themselves.
For patients, the care surrounding the operation matters alongside the technology. They may want to understand how the surgery works, what reconstruction involves and what to expect during recovery. They can bring those questions to a team that works together, with navigation support through the course of their care.
Dr. Barry’s milestone expands the surgical options available to her patients. Her work within Sharp Rees-Stealy’s coordinated care brings the story back to what patients need: skilled specialists, clear conversations about their choices and support that extends beyond one procedure.
Sharp Community Medical Group connects patients with high-quality, coordinated health care close to home while supporting the communities its physicians serve.
Courtesy of Sharp Community Medical Group | Dr. Kaveh Bahmanpour, a family medicine physician and patient
When it comes to health care, convenience matters. Whether you need a routine checkup, a specialist appointment, diagnostic imaging, or hospital care, receiving services close to home can make a meaningful difference for you and your family. That is the philosophy behind Sharp Community Medical Group (SCMG), one of Southern California’s largest physician networks, built around a simple idea: exceptional health care should be available in the communities where people live, work, and raise their families.
SCMG’s local care delivery model begins with choosing a primary care physician in your neighborhood. When specialty care is needed, your doctor can refer you to local specialists who are part of the SCMG network. Those specialists can admit patients to nearby Sharp HealthCare or Palomar UC San Diego Health hospitals, helping ensure care remains coordinated and close to home.
Courtesy of Sharp Community Medical Group | Sharp Community Medical Group’s local care delivery model
The benefits extend far beyond physician visits. SCMG patients have access to community-based laboratories, MRI and radiology centers, urgent care locations, pharmacies, and other ancillary services throughout the region. Instead of traveling across the county for care, patients can often receive the services they need in the communities they know and trust. As a result, care becomes more convenient, more connected, and easier to navigate.
For many SCMG physicians, the word “Community” in the organization’s name is more than branding. It reflects a commitment to giving back to the people and neighborhoods they serve.
That commitment is evident in the work of Dr. Joseph Novencido, an SCMG-affiliated physician and President of the Filipino Medical Association of San Diego, who organized the inaugural 2025 Carabao 5K. The event was created to encourage healthy lifestyles and physical activity among Filipino Americans, a population that experiences cardiovascular disease at significantly higher rates than the general U.S. population.
“Community is extremely important to me,” said Dr. Novencido. “I grew up in a very diverse community, and working in this area, in the community I grew up in is so fulfilling. It is so nice to be in a position where I can make a difference in the lives of the people here.”
Courtesy of Sharp Community Medical Group | Dr. Joseph Novincido, a family medicine physician and his family
SCMG physician Dr. Leticia Polanco shares a similar passion for serving her community in Chula Vista.
“The reason I decided to go into medicine is because I felt there was an overwhelming need for people like me to take care of the community that I live in,” she said. “In our practice, we work as a team, we collaborate with our staff, and we really want to give that warm feeling to people who come here for care.”
Courtesy of Sharp Community Medical Group | Dr. Leticia Polanco, a family medicine physician and a staff member
Stories like these highlight what distinguishes SCMG: a network of physicians who are deeply invested in the health and well-being of the communities they serve, while providing patients with access to a coordinated local system of care. From preventive care and specialty services to imaging, urgent care, and hospital treatment, SCMG helps patients receive the right care, in the right place, close to home.
About Sharp Community Medical Group
Sharp Community Medical Group (SCMG) is one of Southern California’s largest physician networks, with more than 1,200 affiliated primary care and specialty physicians practicing throughout San Diego County. SCMG physicians can admit patients to local Sharp HealthCare and Palomar UC San Diego Health hospitals, providing convenient access to coordinated care throughout the community. For more information, visit scmg.org.
It’s fall again. You’ve done the cider tasting. You’ve done the three-legged race at the rec center down the street. You’ve done the craft fairs and candle-making class but have you pedaled down a railroad track built in the 1880s in a two-person, auto-assisted Railbike with the wind blowing through your hair as you take in the sights—citrus groves dotted with bright yellow lemons, sun-drenched mountains—and stopped at a pumpkin patch (with a petting zoo!) along the way?
Enter Sunburst Railbikes in Santa Paula, the bucket-list experience your bucket didn’t even know it was missing. Until now. “It’s the perfect escape from the city, from the hustle and bustle,” said Nicholas Martinez, who, as a manager and frequent guide for the Railbikes, has taken more than 500 rides and wants to do at least 500 more. “It’s exhilarating.”
It goes like this: You meet at the quaint historic Santa Paula Depot and hop on a bike, one specially created to perch snugly on the tracks. Because of the electric assist, you get to be as lazy or overachieving as you’d like. Kids three years old and up can do it, too. The whole journey is 10 miles and takes two hours, during which you take in fresh air and listen peacefully to the hypnotic clickety-clack while snaking in and out of lush groves. In April and August, you’ll see the avocado harvest. During fall, it’s all about the lemons. “It’s just a thrill to be gliding along,” says Martinez, explaining the uniqueness of the experience. “It’s like nothing else.”
The activity is a fit for all ages, with children under three riding in a front-facing chest carrier. Adults love the feeling of freedom. Kids love railroad crossings. They often wave at the stopped car traffic as they cruise by. “It’s such a hoot!” says Martinez.
Courtesy of Sunburst Railbikes
Toward the end of the journey, there’s a stop at Prancer’s Farm, a local business which is pretty much the holy grail of October activities. You can buy local produce like avocados, strawberries and honey, but also zipline, pet animals, pick a pumpkin or fresh produce, and go on hayrides or horse rides, get lost in a corn maze, pose in a marigold field or a sunflower field, ride a barrel train or…or…or maybe all of the above.
You’ll also experience a bit of history along the way. The tracks, laid down in 1887, used to shuttle passengers between Los Angeles and San Francisco. You can envision it as you go—travelers embarking on big trips before air travel. Later, in the 1940s and ’50s, freight trains used the tracks to haul fresh citrus.
It’s still a working railroad today, but it’s also a bit of a celebrity. The very tracks used by the Railbikes have been in more than 500 television and movie productions, everything from a Dr. Pepper commercial to the feature film Seabiscuit. So yeah, riding those tracks is Hollywood adjacent, kind of like meeting a well-known prop like the sofa from Central Perk.
While driving up from San Diego and back in one day is possible, you can easily turn the occasion into a fun weekend getaway. The cute-as-heck town of Ojai is a short car ride away. Think idyllic meanderings through nature, picturesque historic downtown and top-notch food choices. Ventura, equally close, is a chock-full of craft breweries and beach walks. Book a night somewhere and indulge.
Fall has plenty of traditions. So yes, you could spend another autumn afternoon at another craft fair. You could make some soup or play pin the stem on the pumpkin, but you also might want to climb aboard a Sunburst Railbike, pedal down a 139-year-old railroad track, wave at confused motorists and make an entirely unique core memory for you and your people.
Come experience the Sunburst Railbikes for yourself during their year-round trips through the citrus groves – sunset, extended, and other themed rides available seasonally.
Though shock waves may sound like something more likely to cause pain than relieve it, physicians have been using the technology to treat musculoskeletal conditions for decades. Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment used in sports medicine for a variety of tendon, muscle and ligament injuries. By delivering acoustic energy via targeted sound waves, it activates the body’s natural healing processes. Scripps officially launched its shockwave therapy program earlier this year, making it one of the first major healthcare organizations in the region to offer the innovative service. Click here to read more about shockwave therapy and the doctor who advocated to bring the treatment to Scripps.
For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
It’s estimated that one in four adults in the U.S. have high cholesterol. It’s a condition that’s preventable and treatable; however, it often has no symptoms, so many people are unaware they have it. That puts them at higher risk for heart attack or stroke. A recent update to national guidelines for preventive cholesterol screenings, the first since 2018, aims to change that by screening and intervening earlier, and calculating long-term risk differently. Click here to find out more.
For more nutrition, wellness and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
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