Metabolic Health

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson provides strategies for supporting liver health and detoxification. The liver is responsible for metabolism, digestion, nutrient synthesis, and storage, but our modern lifestyles and exposure to toxins can affect its function. Nicholson discusses nutrition tips such as eliminating processed foods and emphasizing a balanced diet of real whole foods. She also recommends herbal supplements like milk thistle and turmeric, as well as exercise to aid in detoxification. Sleep, stress management, and toxin identification and removal are also important for liver health. Taking care of the liver can have positive effects on blood sugar handling, skin issues, energy metabolism, and cholesterol levels. Nicholson advises consulting with a healthcare practitioner before making any changes and offers a free consultation to discuss individual situations.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson explores the important role of probiotics in promoting gut health and supporting immune function. Probiotics are live microorganisms that offer numerous health benefits, often referred to as "good bacteria." They come in various strains, each with unique benefits such as improving digestion and enhancing nutrient absorption.

Our gut and immune system have a close relationship, with around 70% of our immune system residing in the gut. Probiotics, like lactobacillus and bifidobacterium, play a vital role in regulating and strengthening our immune response by stimulating antibody production. By maintaining a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria and keeping opportunistic bacteria in check, we can support a robust immune system that effectively defends against pathogens.

When choosing probiotics, it's important to look for strains that have been studied for their immune-supporting properties, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, or Saccharomyces boulardii. These strains can be found in probiotic supplements or naturally in fermented foods. Incorporating probiotics into a healthy lifestyle, along with proper diet, exercise, stress management, and hydration, can help maintain optimal gut health and strengthen the body's defenses.

However, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting probiotics, especially for individuals with compromised immune systems or certain medical conditions. Additionally, quality assurance is crucial when it comes to choosing probiotic products, as many may not contain what they claim. Finding independently tested and trusted products is recommended to ensure their efficacy.

A recent study compared the effectiveness of the Very Low Carbohydrate and DASH diets for overweight or obese adults with hypertension and prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. The results showed that the Very Low Carbohydrate diet was more beneficial in terms of reducing systolic blood pressure, hemoglobin A1c levels, and weight loss compared to the DASH diet. Participants on the Very Low Carbohydrate diet also experienced a greater reduction in blood pressure medication and blood sugar medication usage. Interestingly, the study found that additional support on mindfulness and emotional eating did not significantly impact the results of either diet. Overall, the study suggests that the Very Low Carbohydrate diet may be a more effective nutritional strategy for individuals with these health conditions.

This article shares the story of a client who experienced troubling side effects from conventional treatments for his type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and weight issues. Despite his doctor's dismissiveness, Joe took matters into his own hands and made significant dietary changes, gradually weaning himself off medications. Now weighing 308 lbs, with a lower A1c level and no hypertension, Joe's progress serves as proof that medications were not helping him, and nutrition played a pivotal role in reversing his disease.

The post also emphasizes the importance of finding a medical professional who supports the exploration of alternative treatments, as altering prescription medications without supervision can be risky. It discusses the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes and the potential downsides of relying solely on medications for type 2 diabetes. The author highlights the lack of comprehensive lab testing that Joe received from his doctor, which hindered objective data tracking and understanding of his overall well-being.

The author invites readers to consider the possibilities of gathering comprehensive data for their own health and offers a complimentary Holistic Health Strategy Session to discuss personal situations and potential paths to well-being.

Prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance conditions have become alarmingly prevalent in our modern society. However, there is hope for those seeking to improve their health and control their blood sugar levels. A low carb, ketogenic, or carnivore diet can be highly beneficial for individuals suffering from these conditions. Studies have consistently demonstrated the effectiveness of these dietary approaches in managing and even reversing prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance. By drastically reducing carbohydrate intake, these diets help regulate blood sugar levels and promote weight loss, both of which are crucial for managing these conditions. The low carb diet limits the consumption of high-carb foods such as pasta, bread, potatoes, and sugary treats. By replacing carbohydrate-rich foods with nutrient-dense alternatives, individuals can experience significant improvements in insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and overall glycemic control.