Insulin Resistance

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson highlights the dangers of under-eating and over-exercising in the pursuit of weight loss. Despite popular belief, these practices are not sustainable or effective. Under-eating can lead to a drop in metabolic rate and the breakdown of lean tissue, hindering weight loss progress. Over-exercising, while beneficial in moderation, can cause fatigue, injuries, and illness. Additionally, excessive fasting can result in the loss of lean tissue and dysregulation of hormones. To achieve a healthy balance, Nicholson suggests finding the right combination of nutrition, exercise, and self-care, tailored to individual needs. If unsure, seeking the guidance of a professional can help navigate this journey towards sustainable weight loss.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson emphasizes the importance of gut health and blood sugar management for overall well-being. While these two areas may seem unrelated, they have a significant impact on every aspect of our health, from digestion and immunity to mood and metabolism. When the balance of bacteria in our gut is disrupted, it can lead to a range of symptoms including bloating, gas, and fatigue. Similarly, poor blood sugar control can contribute to issues like diabetes, weight gain, and hormone imbalances.

Fortunately, there are steps we can take to support our gut microbiome and maintain healthy blood sugar levels. A healthy diet should prioritize quality protein, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables while minimizing starches, sugars, and refined carbohydrates. Adequate sleep, stress management techniques, regular physical exercise, and engaging in activities that bring joy are all important components of a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, supplementation may be beneficial to address specific deficiencies or imbalances. It's crucial to approach health holistically and recognize that when we address one area, others can also fall in line. By focusing on gut health and blood sugar management, we can lay the foundation for a lasting plan of action.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson explores the little-known effects of blood sugar dysregulation and offers advice on how to manage it. Blood sugar dysregulation occurs when blood sugar levels fluctuate or remain chronically elevated, and it can be caused by factors such as stress, certain medications, and an unhealthy diet. While many people associate blood sugar imbalance with diabetes, studies have shown that 88% of adults have metabolic dysfunction, which includes blood sugar imbalances and insulin resistance.

The effects of blood sugar dysregulation can extend beyond diabetes and include fatigue, anxiety, depression, chronic inflammation, sugar cravings, increased appetite, headaches, imbalanced gut, joint pain, poor memory, weight gain, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver, and hormone imbalances. To determine if you have blood sugar dysregulation, Nicholson suggests blood testing or using a continuous glucose monitor, which can provide insight into how your body responds to certain foods and activities.

To manage blood sugar dysregulation, Nicholson recommends eating a quality diet that prioritizes protein and healthy fats, managing stress and prioritizing sleep, and incorporating daily physical activity. By making mindful choices about carbohydrate intake, stress management, sleep habits, and exercise, it is possible to reverse blood sugar imbalances and achieve optimal health. Nicholson also emphasizes the benefits of working with a coach or nutritionist who can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson shares a client's story of struggling with weight loss and various health issues. The client had tried multiple diets and approaches without success and was feeling discouraged. After a conversation with the nutritionist, it was discovered that the client was experiencing low blood sugar due to not eating enough protein, which was disrupting her sleep and metabolism. By making changes to her diet and using a continuous glucose monitor, the client was able to stabilize her blood sugar levels and make progress towards her weight loss goals. The nutritionist emphasizes the importance of using data to drive healing protocols and personalizing approaches based on individual needs.

Are you struggling to lose weight or have a ravenous appetite? Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson discusses a 2-3 day fat fast to kick-start your fat burning. Fat fasting involves consuming significantly higher fat than normal, very little overall carbohydrates, and limited protein for a few days to shift your body from burning glucose to burning fat. However, it is important to note that this plan should only be followed for a short period of time to prevent the breakdown of lean tissue. Fat fasting can be a great strategy to implement after vacations or holidays, when you're struggling to lose weight, or when battling sugar or carb cravings. Remember to choose from a specific list of foods and fats and start slow when reintroducing other foods after the fast.