Podcast

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson discusses the importance of critically evaluating health claims that are often seen in various forms of media. She explains that health claims are statements suggesting that a specific product, food, system, plan, or lifestyle intervention can either improve or harm one's health. Andrea emphasizes the need to dig deeper into the research behind such claims and advises seeking the original source of the information to determine its reliability. She highlights the difference between correlational information derived from diet questionnaires and surveys, which cannot prove causation, and well-conducted randomized clinical controlled trials, which provide the best evidence for causation. Andrea also urges readers to consider the source of funding behind studies, as this can potentially create bias. She encourages a critical evaluation of all available data and emphasizes the importance of not taking health claims at face value.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson explains that while conventional lab testing focuses on basic markers necessary to sustain life, functional lab testing provides a more comprehensive analysis of the body's functions and can detect imbalances before they become diseases. She goes on to highlight several specific functional lab tests that can provide valuable insights into overall health, including stress and metabolic profiles, fasting insulin, comprehensive thyroid testing, and stool tests, among others. These tests can help identify imbalances related to hormone levels, blood sugar handling, immune function, cholesterol, iron, inflammation, adrenal health, and more. 

On this episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast with Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson, Christina Sanders describes genetic testing used to personalize nutrition. She describes the test she uses and the value gathered from this type of testing for fine tuning nutritional strategies for healing. 

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson explores the various factors that can cause gut dysfunctions outside of the digestive system. She discusses the impact of liver dysfunctions, gallbladder issues, thyroid imbalances, dehydration, pancreas issues, brain health, and eating habits on gut health. These factors can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating, gas, heartburn, and upset stomach. By understanding the potential culprits and seeking the guidance of a healthcare professional, it is possible to improve gut health and overall well-being.

On this episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast, Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson interviews Nutrition Therapist Kelly Miller on how to use nutrition therapy for addiction recovery. Kelly finds that many people struggling with addictions have nutritional deficiencies and poor lifestyle habits.