Lab Testing

In this episode of the Living Life Naturally podcast, Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson dives into the hidden gems of gut and metabolic health. She discusses why conventional medical testing often falls short in providing real answers and emphasizes the importance of taking a holistic approach to wellness. Andrea explains the impact of gut health on overall health and explores the different types of stress that may hinder progress. She also debunks common myths in the health industry and highlights the significance of blood sugar and insulin imbalances for everyone, not just those with diabetes. If you've ever wondered about gut health imbalances or the need for a metabolic reset, this podcast episode is a must-listen.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson discusses the importance of thyroid health and the prevalence of thyroid imbalances in the population. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that produces hormones that influence metabolism, growth, and body temperature. Imbalances in thyroid hormones can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain or loss, dry skin, and digestive issues. Conventional medical testing often only evaluates a limited range of thyroid function, so it's crucial to seek out comprehensive testing and work with a trained practitioner to address any imbalances. Treatment options may include medications or holistic approaches such as healing the gut, reducing inflammation, and addressing nutrient deficiencies.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson discusses the causes of heart disease and hypertension and how they relate to metabolic health. She explains that insulin resistance is at the root cause of these conditions, and that diet and lifestyle changes can help improve them. Nicholson highlights that medications for hypertension may not significantly improve outcomes for otherwise healthy individuals, and emphasizes the importance of addressing insulin resistance. She provides advice on testing for risks, focusing on a healthy diet, exercise, and working with a professional to achieve optimal metabolic health. Next week, she will address the connection between metabolic health and thyroid disorders.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson explains different types of diabetes and blood sugar dysregulation conditions. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is primarily caused by poor diet and lifestyle choices. There is also a type called Type 1.5 or LADA, which shares features of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and MODY, a rare genetic disorder. The post also discusses insulin resistance and hypoglycemia, as well as the importance of testing and making dietary and lifestyle changes to manage blood sugar imbalances.

Metabolic health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, yet studies have shown that the majority of Americans have some level of metabolic dysfunction. A recent study by the University of North Carolina found that only 12% of the population met all the primary criteria for good metabolic health. With the impact of the pandemic likely exacerbating these numbers, it is important to understand the various factors that contribute to metabolic health.

Metabolism goes beyond simply how many calories you burn or your ability to lose weight. It encompasses all the chemical reactions in your body that contribute to energy production and utilization. Factors such as food choices, exercise, sleep, stress, and mental health all play a role in maintaining a healthy metabolism. Digestion, blood sugar control, inflammation levels, and insulin regulation are key markers of metabolic health.

Improving metabolic health involves addressing various factors, such as managing blood sugar spikes, controlling insulin levels, reducing fat in the blood, and effectively managing stress. Additionally, prioritizing quality sleep and engaging in regular exercise are crucial for maintaining a healthy metabolism. In upcoming episodes, we will delve deeper into specific conditions related to metabolic health, including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, thyroid disorders, and cancer.