Insulin Resistance

In a recent blog post, Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson highlights five ways alcohol negatively affects gut health. Firstly, alcohol can lead to leaky gut syndrome, where the intestinal lining breaks down, causing toxins and undigested food to leak into the bloodstream, resulting in various ailments. Secondly, alcohol impairs nutrient absorption by damaging cells responsible for absorbing vital vitamins and minerals, leading to deficiencies. Thirdly, alcohol causes inflammation, a common denominator in chronic diseases, by slowing and blocking detoxification pathways. Fourthly, alcohol disrupts the delicate balance of the gut's microbiome, killing beneficial bacteria and promoting the overgrowth of harmful microorganisms. Lastly, alcohol weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to illness and infection. To improve gut health, reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption is advised.

In a blog post by Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson, the question of whether breakfast is the most important meal is explored. Historically, breakfast was not a common practice, but rather a meal for infants and those with illnesses. Research on the effects of breakfast consumption has shown mixed results, with benefits for certain populations and varying outcomes depending on meal timing and food composition. Nicholson suggests that whether or not to eat breakfast depends on individual circumstances, such as hunger levels and time constraints. However, she emphasizes the importance of making healthy food choices when starting the day, with an emphasis on quality protein and healthy fats. She also advises against traditional breakfast options like cereal, bread, bagels, muffins, and oatmeal due to their potential impact on blood sugar levels and inflammation. Instead, she recommends alternatives such as real sourdough bread, whole oatmeal with protein and healthy fats, and fresh grind nut butter or whole nut sourced nut-butter. Quality and organic ingredients are also highlighted as important considerations when choosing breakfast options.

Heart disease, particularly hypertension, has long been associated with factors such as smoking, lack of exercise, and obesity. However, one significant factor that has been overlooked is insulin resistance. Insulin resistance and hypertension are closely linked, with research showing that high insulin levels and reduced sensitivity to insulin cause hypertension. Insulin resistance occurs when tissues in the body become less sensitive to insulin, leading the body to produce more insulin. This can result in hypertension and other heart disease conditions, as increased blood pressure strains the heart over time. Identifying insulin resistance early on through a fasting insulin test can help prevent or reverse hypertension through diet and lifestyle modifications.

Autophagy, which means "self-eating," is a crucial health mechanism in the human body. It controls important physiological functions like cellular renewal, energy production, and elimination of bacteria and viruses. Autophagy is linked to various diseases, including Parkinson’s, Type 2 Diabetes, and cancer. However, modern lifestyles and the constant exposure to toxins and stressors can hinder the autophagy process.

To enhance autophagy naturally, there are several strategies to consider. Fasting is a powerful way to inspire autophagy by putting the body into "famine" mode and reusing old cellular components. Eating a ketogenic diet or reducing carbohydrate intake can shift the body into using ketones as the primary fuel source, similar to fasting. Coffee, especially both caffeinated and decaffeinated versions, has been shown to stimulate autophagy. Consuming autophagy-stimulating foods like turmeric, ginger, garlic, and green tea can also support the process. Interval training and exercising in short bursts followed by rest cycles can stimulate autophagy. Getting uninterrupted sleep and taking saunas at high temperatures can also promote the autophagy process.

Understanding autophagy and finding ways to enhance it can significantly contribute to overall health and longevity. However, it's essential to strike a balance and seek professional guidance when implementing fasting or other autophagy-stimulating practices, as they may not be suitable for everyone at every stage of life.

In a blog post by Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson, she emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with our body's innate ability to heal itself. Due to the constant bombardment of media, advertisements, and social pressures, we have lost touch with our internal signals. However, by refocusing and reconnecting with ourselves, we can conquer cravings, make mindful choices, and find greater peace and joy in our lives.

Nicholson discusses various methods for managing and eliminating cravings. These include eliminating the desired food for at least three weeks, replacing it with a healthy alternative, eating a variety of foods to address nutrient deficiencies, and reducing the consumption of processed and refined foods. She also highlights the benefits of conscious breathing and prioritizing the consumption of real, unaltered food provided by nature. Lastly, Nicholson emphasizes the importance of daily movement, incorporating activities such as walking, dancing, gardening, and playing sports into our routines.

By making these new choices, we can tap into our body's intelligence and support its natural healing capabilities.