Updates from Andrea Nicholson

In a blog post by Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson, she emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with our body's innate ability to heal itself. Due to the constant bombardment of media, advertisements, and social pressures, we have lost touch with our internal signals. However, by refocusing and reconnecting with ourselves, we can conquer cravings, make mindful choices, and find greater peace and joy in our lives.

Nicholson discusses various methods for managing and eliminating cravings. These include eliminating the desired food for at least three weeks, replacing it with a healthy alternative, eating a variety of foods to address nutrient deficiencies, and reducing the consumption of processed and refined foods. She also highlights the benefits of conscious breathing and prioritizing the consumption of real, unaltered food provided by nature. Lastly, Nicholson emphasizes the importance of daily movement, incorporating activities such as walking, dancing, gardening, and playing sports into our routines.

By making these new choices, we can tap into our body's intelligence and support its natural healing capabilities.

In this thought-provoking article, Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson argues that weight should not be our sole focus when it comes to health. She points out that being overweight doesn't automatically mean you're unhealthy, just as being of a "healthy weight" doesn't guarantee good health. In fact, research has found that a significant portion of the population classified as obese are actually metabolically healthy, while many individuals of normal weight are not.

Nicholson explains that excess weight is often an outward symptom of underlying metabolic dysfunction, rather than the cause of health problems. She emphasizes the importance of addressing metabolic health and inflammation, which are at the root of chronic diseases. To assess metabolic health, she suggests looking at various markers such as fasting glucose, cholesterol levels, and inflammation levels. Additionally, paying attention to lifestyle factors like stress, sleep, and nutrition can greatly impact overall health.

Overall, Nicholson urges readers to shift their focus from weight to metrics that truly reflect metabolic health, emphasizing the importance of holistic practices and lifestyle changes in improving or reversing ailments.

In a recent blog post, functional nutritionist Andrea Nicholson explores the deep connection between digestion and mental health. She reveals that there is a strong relationship between mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression, and digestive disorders. For example, anxiety is five times more prevalent in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) than in those without IBS symptoms. Additionally, sleep disturbances and mental health challenges are closely linked, with each contributing to the other.

The human digestive system is intricately connected to the central nervous system, and the gut can significantly impact mental health. The gut-brain connection is noticeable in experiences like feeling "butterflies" when nervous or having "gut reactions" and instincts. Moreover, a large portion of important neurotransmitters for mental health, like dopamine and serotonin, are produced in the gut. Therefore, addressing digestive health is crucial for overall well-being and should be a priority when considering any holistic approach. Besides nutrition, Nicholson emphasizes the role of lifestyle factors, such as exercise, stress management, and quality sleep, as well as inner work like gratitude and seeking help for past traumas.

Given the increasing prevalence of mental health disorders, it is important not to ignore these issues. Nicholson emphasizes that while they may be common, they are not normal. Taking a holistic approach that includes addressing digestive health can greatly improve or even eliminate these challenges. She recommends functional testing to assess gut function and determine the best course of action. By focusing on nutrition, lifestyle changes, and inner work, individuals can prioritize their mental health and overall well-being.

Intermittent fasting (IF) is a popular eating schedule that involves cycling between periods of eating and not eating. It has gained traction in recent years, although fasting has been a part of human history for centuries. IF can be done in various ways, such as following a 16-hour fasting window with an 8-hour eating window. Implementing a healthy, sustainable plan is key, and it is important to start slowly and consult with medical professionals, especially if you have certain health conditions or take medications that may be affected by fasting.

Benefits of intermittent fasting include reducing the risk of heart disease and diabetes, promoting weight loss by reducing calorie intake and regulating blood sugar levels, and improving mental clarity and energy by increasing fat burn and producing ketones. It is important to note that fasting is not suitable for everyone, particularly pregnant and nursing women, individuals with blood sugar dysregulation or eating disorders, and those taking medications that need routine timing or must be taken with food. Consulting with a medical professional is crucial before starting any fasting plan. Implementing a healthy diet and lifestyle, along with intermittent fasting, can maximize the benefits of this eating schedule.

With the colder months approaching, it's easy to become less active. However, there are still plenty of ways to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, even in the chilly weather. Consider going on a hike to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage or try out a winter sport such as ice skating or skiing. If you prefer to stay indoors, there are plenty of at-home workout options to choose from. Even autumn chores like raking leaves can be turned into a fun and rewarding workout. Don't let the cold weather discourage you from staying active – bundle up and embrace the season to keep your body moving and stay healthy.