Lab Metrics for Metabolic Health

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson discusses the top blood chemistry markers for metabolic health
Evaluating overall metabolic health involves examining several key markers through comprehensive blood panels. Prior to testing, ensure the blood draw is done in a fasted state (12-14 hours), stay well-hydrated, avoid strenuous exercise for a day or two before, and consult about any medications or supplements that may need to be skipped. Also, try to avoid getting your blood drawn on particularly stressful days or when you are feeling unwell.

Combining these results with other markers such as kidney function, thyroid status, iron levels, and overall blood cell health, alongside symptom evaluation and current medications, helps create a customized protocol for nutrition, lifestyle, and potential supplements or medications. To get a detailed review of your results, you can order your own comprehensive panel and further inquire about these markers.
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Breast Health with Carol Lourie

Breast Health with Carol Lourie on the Holistic Health Bites podcast with Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson
Carol shared her experience supporting a friend through breast cancer, launching her focus on integrative support. She outlined the multi-step diagnostic process and initial treatment options involving biopsies, oncology meetings, potential neoadjuvant chemotherapy, surgery choices and chemotherapy/radiation.  Carol detailed the complex diagnostic journey from discovery to pathology reports to oncology meetings to potential neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgery, emphasizing patients' rights to second opinions on mastectomy recommendations given research on benefits versus risks. She stressed examining nutrition by reading packaged food labels, shopping at health stores and farmers markets, eliminating processed foods and creating a toxin-free home. 
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Integrative Health for Children

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson interviews Dr Joel Gator Warsh on the Holistic Health Bites podcast.  Dr Gator is an Integrative Physician for children.
Joel Warsh, a holistic pediatrician affectionately known as Dr Gator, discussed the importance of integrating natural remedies with traditional medicine. He emphasized the need for preventative measures to combat the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. Joel also stressed the significance of conscious decisions for family health, including avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals.  Joel also discussed the importance of mental health, particularly among children, and the need for parents to help their children de-stress. We also touched on the issue of over-consumption of fruit juice among children. 
 
Joel and I discussed the shortcomings of the current medical system, emphasizing the need for a more holistic and preventative approach to healthcare that includes nutrition, lifestyle, and stress reduction. We also highlighted the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach, with specialized professionals and AI technology to assist doctors. Lastly, we talked about the rising costs and chronic diseases in the healthcare system, and the increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses among children, stressing the need for personal responsibility and systemic change.
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Fighting Chronic Fatigue

Holistic Health Bites podcast with Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson featuring Dr Evan Hirsch discussing chronic fatigue
On this episode, Dr Evan discussed the challenges of chronic fatigue and long Covid, with Evan emphasizing the importance of addressing underlying causes and adopting a holistic approach to improve overall health. He also explored daily habits that contribute to a toxic load, the dangers of exposure to chemicals, and the need for a mindset shift towards making small, gradual changes towards a healthier lifestyle. Lastly, he discussed the potential for environmental hazards, such as mold, in old and new buildings, and the long-term effects of Covid-19, also known as 'long Covid'.
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All Things Hormones

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson interviews Dr RitaMarie Loscalzo on the Holistic Health Bites podcast talking all about insulin resistance and related hormones
On this episode, Dr. Ritamarie discussed the importance of the endocrine system, insulin resistance, and sensitivity in maintaining good health. She emphasized the need for a personalized approach to addressing these issues, using tools like glucometers and CGMs to gain real-time feedback on patients' health. She also explored the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques in maintaining good health. Additionally, we discussed the benefits of fasting as a healthy practice, introducing a fasting regime developed based on Dr. Valter Longo's research, and highlighted the importance of breaking fasts with the right mindset.
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