11 Benefits to Fasting

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson shares 11 benefits to fasting on the Holistic Health Bites podcast
This episode of the Holistic Health Bites Podcast explores the multitude of benefits associated with fasting. One of the standout advantages is insulin regulation; fasting significantly reduces blood insulin levels by allowing the body a break from constant digestion. This rest period also aids in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, promoting better overall health and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

Fasting also contributes to improved heart health by normalizing blood pressure and reducing triglycerides, positively impacting heart disease, the leading cause of death globally. Additionally, periods of fasting can facilitate damaged tissue repair, as the digestive organs rest and energy is redirected toward cellular regeneration and repair. Enhanced brain function is another benefit, with people often experiencing clearer minds and improved memory during fasting periods.

Other notable benefits include greater appetite control, potentially lower cancer risks, higher levels of Human Growth Hormone (HGH), and a more robust immune system. Fasting also triggers autophagy, a process where the body regenerates at a molecular level, which plays a crucial role in antiaging. These combined benefits suggest that fasting has a cumulative positive effect on overall health and longevity.
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Breast Health with Carol Lourie

Breast Health with Carol Lourie on the Holistic Health Bites podcast with Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson
Carol shared her experience supporting a friend through breast cancer, launching her focus on integrative support. She outlined the multi-step diagnostic process and initial treatment options involving biopsies, oncology meetings, potential neoadjuvant chemotherapy, surgery choices and chemotherapy/radiation.  Carol detailed the complex diagnostic journey from discovery to pathology reports to oncology meetings to potential neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgery, emphasizing patients' rights to second opinions on mastectomy recommendations given research on benefits versus risks. She stressed examining nutrition by reading packaged food labels, shopping at health stores and farmers markets, eliminating processed foods and creating a toxin-free home. 
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All Things Hormones

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson interviews Dr RitaMarie Loscalzo on the Holistic Health Bites podcast talking all about insulin resistance and related hormones
On this episode, Dr. Ritamarie discussed the importance of the endocrine system, insulin resistance, and sensitivity in maintaining good health. She emphasized the need for a personalized approach to addressing these issues, using tools like glucometers and CGMs to gain real-time feedback on patients' health. She also explored the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques in maintaining good health. Additionally, we discussed the benefits of fasting as a healthy practice, introducing a fasting regime developed based on Dr. Valter Longo's research, and highlighted the importance of breaking fasts with the right mindset.
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Freedom from Cancer

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson interviews Katrina Foe on her cancer story
On this episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast, I welcome special guest Katrina Foe to discuss the importance of self-advocacy in health matters, the need for testing to identify underlying health issues, and the impact of environmental factors on health. She also emphasized the role of genetics and lifestyle choices in cancer prevention and treatment. The conversation focused on the importance of nutrition, particularly in relation to cancer treatment. She also touched upon the challenges and misconceptions related to transitioning to a ketogenic lifestyle. Towards the end, she discussed the importance of understanding cancer causes and effective treatments, and the potential benefits of alternative treatments for cancer.
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Living an Intermittent Fasting Lifestyle with Gin Stephens

Living an Intermittent Fasting Lifestyle with Gin Stephens by Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson
In this episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast, best selling author Gin Stephens discusses the benefits and best practices of intermittent fasting. She emphasizes that intermittent fasting goes beyond weight loss and can improve blood sugar, inflammation, cardiovascular health, and brain health. Gin recommends fasting clean, avoiding anything that spikes insulin, and giving your body at least four weeks to adapt before assessing progress. She also advises against overly restricting calories and overfasting, listening to your body's signals instead. During eating windows, she suggests focusing on nourishing, satiating meals and avoiding ultra-processed foods. Stephens has written several books on intermittent fasting, including her latest release, "28 Day Fast Start," which provides a simple day-by-day plan for incorporating intermittent fasting into your life. Preorders for the book are available, and she will also be hosting a 28 Day Fast Start challenge starting on January 4th.
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