Gut Health

Prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance conditions have become alarmingly prevalent in our modern society. However, there is hope for those seeking to improve their health and control their blood sugar levels. A low carb, ketogenic, or carnivore diet can be highly beneficial for individuals suffering from these conditions. Studies have consistently demonstrated the effectiveness of these dietary approaches in managing and even reversing prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance. By drastically reducing carbohydrate intake, these diets help regulate blood sugar levels and promote weight loss, both of which are crucial for managing these conditions. The low carb diet limits the consumption of high-carb foods such as pasta, bread, potatoes, and sugary treats. By replacing carbohydrate-rich foods with nutrient-dense alternatives, individuals can experience significant improvements in insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and overall glycemic control.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson was featured on The EasYoga Podcast by Gemma Nice, sharing her process of helping people investigate and solve health challenges.  Andrea spent 15 years working as a crime scene investigator.  Today she uses those same investigative skills to identify and solve conditions like diabetes, hypertension, sore muscles, headaches, and more. 

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson emphasizes the importance of stomach acid for digestive health and immune system function. She discusses the symptoms of low stomach acid, such as heartburn, acid reflux, and digestive discomfort, and explains how inadequate acid production can lead to these issues. Nicholson also highlights the downsides of medications that reduce stomach acid, such as proton pump inhibitors and antacids, which can mask symptoms but contribute to long-term health risks and nutrient deficiencies. Instead, she suggests strategies for improving stomach acid levels, including a nutrient-dense diet, mindful eating, and the use of digestive enzymes and probiotics. By addressing the underlying cause of digestive issues and supporting stomach acid production, we can achieve better digestive health and overall wellbeing.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson explains that while conventional lab testing focuses on basic markers necessary to sustain life, functional lab testing provides a more comprehensive analysis of the body's functions and can detect imbalances before they become diseases. She goes on to highlight several specific functional lab tests that can provide valuable insights into overall health, including stress and metabolic profiles, fasting insulin, comprehensive thyroid testing, and stool tests, among others. These tests can help identify imbalances related to hormone levels, blood sugar handling, immune function, cholesterol, iron, inflammation, adrenal health, and more.