Insulin Resistance

In this blog post, Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson questions the popular belief that whole grains are a requirement for a healthy body. Although there is scientific literature supporting the benefits of whole grains, these studies often compare whole grains to refined grains, rather than no grains at all. The nutrients found in whole grains can also be obtained from other foods without the high levels of carbohydrates and calories that come with grains. The author suggests that low carb diets may actually provide greater benefits to overall health markers. Ultimately, the consumption of whole grains is not essential for optimal health, and individuals can achieve a healthy diet without including grains.

In this blog post Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson explains how ketosis is a metabolic state where the body burns fat instead of carbohydrates for fuel. In addition to weight loss, ketosis offers mental benefits such as enhanced focus and clearer thinking. The primary driver of ketosis is carbohydrate restriction, but it can also be achieved through intermittent fasting or reducing carbohydrate intake. The ketogenic diet, which involves low carbohydrate intake, moderate protein, and higher fat intake, has been found to reduce inflammation and may have benefits for those with chronic diseases. However, cautions include avoiding a ketogenic diet during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, the need for professional intervention for those with chronic diseases or on specific medications, and the possibility of experiencing "keto flu" symptoms when first adopting a low carbohydrate or ketogenic style of eating. Overall, ketosis can offer numerous health benefits, including weight loss, improved energy, and reduced inflammation.

Are you struggling to lose weight despite following a strict diet and exercise routine? Well, you're not alone. Many women face this frustrating situation. Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson explains five common reasons for weight loss resistance.

Firstly, calorie restriction in the long term can actually lower your metabolic rate, making it harder to lose weight. Secondly, chronically elevated levels of insulin can prevent your body from tapping into stored fuels, leading to weight gain. Thirdly, consuming unhealthy fats such as vegetable oils can contribute to weight gain and sugar cravings. Fourthly, toxins in our environment can disrupt hormonal balance and interfere with calorie burning. Finally, stress can cause the body to store more fat and make unhealthy food choices.

To overcome weight loss resistance, Nicholson suggests aligning your diet with considerations of WHAT, WHEN, and HOW MUCH you eat. It's also important to decrease insulin levels, consume healthy fats, reduce toxin exposure, and implement stress management techniques. Prioritizing sleep is also crucial. By addressing these factors, you can break through weight loss plateaus and achieve your goals.

In this blog post Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson breaks down the truths and myths surrounding the concept of starvation mode. True starvation, where you are wasting away due to lack of nourishment, is not as common as the diet industry would have you believe. Fasting, on the other hand, is a voluntary practice that allows the body to tap into stored fuels for sustained energy. It stimulates ketosis and autophagy, which can lead to sustainable weight loss and increased energy levels.

The article highlights how low-calorie dieting can contribute to starvation mode as it does not lower insulin levels and does not stimulate autophagy. It also lacks essential nutrients and can decrease metabolic rate over time. Low-calorie diets have been shown to be unsustainable in the long term and encourage frequent eating, causing multiple insulin spikes and inhibiting fat burning.

To become more metabolically flexible, the article suggests implementing lower carbohydrate eating, particularly reducing or eliminating refined grains and sugars, and incorporating intermittent fasting. These strategies can help individuals tap into stored fat for energy, leading to improved overall health and well-being.

In this blog post titled Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson explains the importance of maintaining a healthy gallbladder for proper digestion and detoxification. She lists common symptoms and dysfunctions of the gallbladder and provides non-surgical remedies to improve its health. Managing insulin, cortisol, and estrogen levels, preventing constipation, eating healthy fats, reducing stress, and increasing daily activity are some of the suggested remedies. For those who have already had their gallbladder removed, Nicholson suggests simple supplements that aid in digestion and recommends Beta Plus by Biotics Research.