Insulin Resistance

In this blog post, functional nutritionist Andrea Nicholson discusses the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and the insights she has gained from using a CGM device. Nicholson explains that while she had previously relied on spot-checking with a glucose meter and lab work, CGM provides more detailed and real-time data on how her body reacts to different foods, periods of fasting, exercise, and other factors. She shares personal lessons she has learned, such as her body's severe reaction to refined carbohydrates and the impact of combining fat and carbs. Nicholson recommends considering CGM for those who want data-driven insights into their health and notes that it can be used on a temporary basis for testing different lifestyles, diets, and exercises.

To learn more about CGM options, readers can click [here](https://join.theiahealth.ai/c/healthylifewithandrea), or if they would like assistance and guidance while using a CGM, they can schedule a free call with Nicholson [here](https://info.healthylifewithandrea.com/free-call).

In a recent blog post, functional nutritionist Andrea Nicholson discusses how insulin resistance can have a significant impact on women's health. Insulin resistance is a condition where the body is unable to respond effectively to insulin, leading to high levels of insulin and reduced response. This metabolic problem is more than just an issue with weight or diabetes - it can also lead to PCOS, infertility, aging skin, and other disorders.

Nicholson emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying causes of symptoms and taking steps to treat them. By addressing the root cause of insulin resistance, women can improve or eliminate symptoms such as weight gain and fatigue. The key is to focus on improving metabolic health through lifestyle changes and a balanced diet, rather than solely on body weight.

Insulin resistance can also impact women's health during menopause, leading to symptoms such as weight gain around the midsection, impaired glucose control, and dysregulation of lipids and cholesterol. It can also contribute to skin changes like acne and wrinkles. However, the good news is that insulin resistance can be reversed or prevented through diet and lifestyle strategies, allowing women to extend their lives with vitality.

Overall, this blog post highlights the importance of understanding insulin resistance and its effects on women's health. By addressing the underlying causes and making positive changes, women can improve their overall well-being and potentially mitigate the risks associated with insulin resistance.

In this blog post, Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson explains the causes of insulin resistance and offers practical solutions to reverse it. Insulin resistance occurs when insulin levels are consistently elevated and certain cells become resistant to its effects. Nicholson identifies three primary mechanisms that lead to elevated insulin: stress, inflammation, and diet, particularly the consumption of refined carbohydrates. Additionally, she highlights excessive consumption of linoleic acid, found in commonly used cooking oils, as a key factor in fat cells becoming insulin resistant. To combat insulin resistance, Nicholson recommends controlling carbohydrate intake and prioritizing whole, natural carbs, engaging in exercise (specifically resistance and HIIT workouts), and adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes removing toxins, managing stress, and prioritizing quality sleep. By addressing these factors, individuals can effectively manage their insulin levels and reverse insulin resistance.

In a recent study published in the journal Nature Metabolism, researchers found a direct link between blood sugar crashes and increased hunger. The study followed over 1000 participants for two weeks using continuous glucose monitors to track blood sugar levels before, during, and after meals. The results showed that larger blood sugar spikes from meals led to larger crashes, and if the dip went lower than the pre-meal baseline, participants reported feeling more hunger and consumed more food. The study emphasized the importance of managing blood sugar levels to avoid these spikes and drops, suggesting strategies such as cutting carbohydrates, prioritizing protein, and filling with healthy fats to maintain smaller blood sugar swings.

Managing blood sugar levels plays a crucial role in controlling hunger and appetite. By reducing consumption of simple carbohydrates and high-glycemic foods, individuals can prevent large blood sugar spikes and drops. Prioritizing whole sources of quality protein and filling up with healthy fats can also help stabilize blood sugar levels. This study highlights the significance of blood sugar regulation in maintaining satiety and suggests that by managing blood sugar well, individuals can better control their hunger and appetite.

In a blog post functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson explores the pros and cons of including fruit in a low-carb diet. While fruit is loaded with vital nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber, it also contains sugar in the form of glucose and fructose. This makes fruit unique and somewhat challenging for those following a low-carb diet. Nicholson explains that fruit can still be a part of a low-carb diet, but it's crucial to pay attention to the types and quantities consumed. She also emphasizes that while fruit offers great nutrients, it is not essential, and one can choose not to eat fruit if desired.