[Podcast] *Rewind* Prediabetes Signs and Causes

Holistic Health Bites podcast by Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson, MS, BCHN discussing prediabetes signs and causes
The podcast is officially 2 years old today! In celebration of the anniversary, I'm bringing back some of the most popular episodes you may have missed.  

In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of prediabetes, exploring its signs, causes, and the underlying mechanisms of blood sugar and insulin. Prediabetes, a condition of insulin resistance, often goes unnoticed for years before blood sugar levels start to rise. Shockingly, over 50% of the U.S. adult population is affected by diabetes or prediabetes, including many who are not overweight. We break down the importance of maintaining optimal levels of key metabolic markers and explain the roles of blood sugar and insulin in our bodies.

We also distinguish between the two main types of diabetes: type 1, an autoimmune condition, and type 2, characterized by insulin resistance. Diagnosing diabetes involves several tests, including Hemoglobin A1C, fasting blood sugar, and others. However, these tests often overlook insulin levels, the first marker to increase in diabetes progression. We recommend a comprehensive panel to fully assess metabolic health. Join us as we discuss the true causes of high insulin levels, the impact of diet and stress on blood sugar, and why traditional treatments often miss the mark. Discover how cutting carbohydrates can be a sustainable solution to managing blood sugar and insulin levels.
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11 Benefits to Fasting

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson shares 11 benefits to fasting on the Holistic Health Bites podcast
This episode of the Holistic Health Bites Podcast explores the multitude of benefits associated with fasting. One of the standout advantages is insulin regulation; fasting significantly reduces blood insulin levels by allowing the body a break from constant digestion. This rest period also aids in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, promoting better overall health and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

Fasting also contributes to improved heart health by normalizing blood pressure and reducing triglycerides, positively impacting heart disease, the leading cause of death globally. Additionally, periods of fasting can facilitate damaged tissue repair, as the digestive organs rest and energy is redirected toward cellular regeneration and repair. Enhanced brain function is another benefit, with people often experiencing clearer minds and improved memory during fasting periods.

Other notable benefits include greater appetite control, potentially lower cancer risks, higher levels of Human Growth Hormone (HGH), and a more robust immune system. Fasting also triggers autophagy, a process where the body regenerates at a molecular level, which plays a crucial role in antiaging. These combined benefits suggest that fasting has a cumulative positive effect on overall health and longevity.
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Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver

Fatty Liver caused by metabolic dysfunction on the Holistic Health Bites podcast with Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson

Fatty liver is increasingly common due to metabolic changes, now termed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). It involves triglyceride accumulation in liver cells, potentially leading to severe liver diseases if untreated.  The liver's lipid production, influenced by insulin and heightened by carbs, leads to excess fat when insulin resistance causes fat cells to release fatty acids back to the liver. Promisingly, fatty liver can be reversed through therapeutic carbohydrate restriction and reduced eating frequency, showing remission within days to a week. For those diagnosed with prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, obesity, or fatty liver, targeted dietary changes offer hope for reversal.
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Brain and Metabolic Health

Brain and metabolic health; a Holistic Health Bites podcast episode by Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson featuring Dr Spencer Zimmerman
On this episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast, I am joined by Dr Spencer Zimmerman discussing how brain health and metabolic health are intimately connected. He emphasized the importance of understanding and addressing the underlying causes of health issues, rather than just treating symptoms, with a focus on metabolic health, brain health, and vascular health. He advocated for a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to healthcare, debunking the idea that a single practitioner can offer comprehensive solutions for complex problems. We also discussed the interconnectedness of these health aspects, the use of specific tools for diagnosis and treatment, and the need for personalized healthcare.

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Adrenal Health with Dr Tricia Pingel

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson, host of the Holistic Health Bites podcast, talks to Dr Tricia Pingel about adrenal health
On this episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast, Dr. Tricia Pingel and I discussed the impact of stress on health, the importance of a holistic approach to health, and the significance of mindfulness and self-care in achieving long-term health goals. Dr Pingel also highlighted the negative health impacts of elevated cortisol levels and the interconnectedness of various bodily systems. Lastly, she emphasized the need to address the root causes of health problems and the importance of self-compassion and positive choices for health.
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