Gut Health

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson discusses the importance of thyroid health and the prevalence of thyroid imbalances in the population. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that produces hormones that influence metabolism, growth, and body temperature. Imbalances in thyroid hormones can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain or loss, dry skin, and digestive issues. Conventional medical testing often only evaluates a limited range of thyroid function, so it's crucial to seek out comprehensive testing and work with a trained practitioner to address any imbalances. Treatment options may include medications or holistic approaches such as healing the gut, reducing inflammation, and addressing nutrient deficiencies.

On this episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast, Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson talks with Heather Gray, FDN about her experience with Lyme Disease. 

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson answers common questions about stress. She emphasizes the importance of testing cortisol levels before attempting to lower them, as depleted cortisol levels can mimic the symptoms of elevated cortisol. If cortisol is indeed high, identifying the times of day when levels are elevated is crucial in determining the appropriate remedies, which may include dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, supplements, or medications.

Nicholson also discusses the relationship between cortisol and weight and overall health. Chronically elevated cortisol can lead to weight gain due to increased blood sugar and insulin levels, which result in the body storing excess fuel as fat. Furthermore, cortisol imbalances can contribute to insulin resistance, affecting various disease processes.

The effect of caffeine on cortisol is another important topic addressed. Caffeine can interact with cortisol processing in the body, causing cortisol spikes and blood sugar imbalances. However, the interaction between caffeine and cortisol is personalized to each individual, and monitoring its effects on energy levels and blood sugar with a continuous glucose monitor can provide valuable insights.

These questions and answers provide a comprehensive understanding of cortisol and stress management, highlighting the need for personalized approaches and testing to determine the most effective strategies.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson discusses our addiction to stress and the negative impact it has on our lives. Many of us have become accustomed to living in a constant state of stress, always feeling pressed for time and worrying about things that may never come to pass. Nicholson explains that stress has become like a drug for us, providing dopamine hits when we cross things off our to-do lists or achieve new goals. However, over time, these hits become less satisfying, and we need more and more stress to feel joyous and satisfied.

To break free from our addiction to stress, Nicholson recommends several steps. First, we need to recognize that we have a problem and acknowledge the unhealthy role stress plays in our lives. Second, we must learn to say "no" more often and prioritize our own well-being over constantly seeking to please others or prove how busy we are. Third, we need to find healthy coping mechanisms for stress, such as exercise, reading, or practicing mindfulness. Fourth, setting boundaries is crucial to prevent overwhelming ourselves with tasks that aren't necessary. Finally, practicing gratitude can help us appreciate what we have and find joy in the present moment.

By following these steps, we can work towards breaking our addiction to stress and living a healthier, more balanced life.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson, the author discusses the distinction between eating healthy and eating the right foods for your body. While it is important to consume healthy foods, it is equally important to ensure that you are eating the right foods for your individual needs, in the right combinations and portions.

The blog post provides three client case studies to illustrate this concept. In the first case, a client with a gluten sensitivity was still experiencing reactions even though gluten was not in their diet. Through functional testing, the client identified foods they were sensitive to and foods that cross-reacted with gluten, resulting in the elimination of chronic digestive issues and weight loss.

In the second case, a client on a low carbohydrate diet for prediabetes discovered through continuous glucose monitoring that they were experiencing low blood sugars during the night. By prioritizing protein and consuming adequate amounts, the client was able to stabilize blood sugars, improve sleep, and start losing weight.

In the third case, the author herself followed a clean, vegetarian diet but experienced bloating, gas, acne, and muscle soreness. Through functional testing, it was revealed that she had nutrient deficiencies, food sensitivities, and a gut pathogen. Adjusting her nutrition plan to include more protein and healthy fats, as well as addressing digestive dysfunction, led to significant improvements in her health.

Overall, the blog post emphasizes the need to personalize your diet based on individual factors such as food sensitivities and metabolic type. Functional testing is recommended as a way to identify imbalances and guide individuals towards the most effective nutrition plan for their bodies.