Holistic Health Bites
From crime scene investigator to functional health investigator, I bring my investigative skills to identify and solve insulin resistance, pre-diabetes and diabetes conditions that contribute to low energy, stubborn weight, and hypertension, naturally. The podcast is taking a break while I focus entirely on client support. Please take some time to review the prior 144 episodes. I am taking new clients looking to reverse insulin resistance without unnecessary medications. Schedule a free call to discuss if this is right for you:https://healthylifewithandrea.com/scheduler/free-call
Superhero Organ: Liver
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In this episode, we delve into the often overlooked but vital organ, the liver. We explore the liver's location, size, and its myriad of functions, which go far beyond detoxification to include digestion, metabolism, blood sugar regulation, and maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. The episode highlights the challenges to liver health posed by modern lifestyle choices, including exposure to toxins, chemicals, and the overuse of medications.
For show notes and additional information:
https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/9297/superhero-organ-liver
Ready to address the cause of your health cha...
Leaky Brain
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Your gut and brain are closely connected, and inflammation might harm both. A weakened blood-brain barrier (leaky brain) lets harmful substances into the brain, potentially leading to mental health issues like depression and neurodegenerative diseases. This is similar to leaky gut, where a loose intestinal lining allows toxins into the bloodstream.
Research shows that improving gut health—through probiotics, prebiotics, a healthy diet, and lifestyle changes—can strengthen the gut-brain connection and reduce inflammation. Addressing gut health could be a key step in improving mental health and preventing brain-related conditions.
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When to Eat
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In this episode, we shift our focus from what to eat to a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of nutrition: when to eat. You'll discover how timing your meals can influence metabolic health, energy levels, and overall well-being.
In this episode I define the three levers of healthy eating: what, when and how much we eat; then answer 5 top questions about WHEN to eat.
For full show notes and information:
https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/9179/when-to-eat
Ready to address the cause of your...
Pillars of Sleep
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Inadequate sleep is a prevalent issue, with many turning to medication or aids, while the financial impact of tired workers is substantial. To improve sleep, we'll discuss four essential pillars: Circadian Rhythm, Glycemic Regulation, Stress, and Sleep Hygiene. These elements involve aligning sleep with natural body cycles, managing blood sugar levels to prevent sleep disturbances, reducing stress, and adopting healthier bedtime habits.
Circadian rhythms are critical for regulating sleep patterns, heavily influenced by light. Disruptions like shift work, inconsistent sleep schedules, and excessive blue light exposure can harm...
What Causes Obesity?
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The episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast delves into the complex debate surrounding the causes of obesity, focusing on two competing models: the energy balance model (EBM) and the carbohydrate-insulin model (CIM). While EBM suggests that obesity is largely due to an imbalance of calories consumed versus expended, CIM argues that hormonal responses, particularly triggered by refined carbohydrates leading to elevated insulin levels, play a pivotal role in fat accumulation. Both models recognize the challenges posed by modern food environments and the influence of various factors like lifestyle and socioeconomic status.
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The Power of the Mind in Healing
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Exploring the intricate mind-body connection reveals the remarkable power of the placebo effect, demonstrating how our expectations can significantly influence physical health. The placebo, historically a staple in medical practice for patient comfort, is often dismissed today but proves through various studies to exert genuine physiological impact. Positive beliefs and thoughts release endorphins, offering pain relief and improved well-being, even paralleling the effects of potent medications in clinical settings.
Numerous studies highlight the potency of the placebo effect across diverse medical conditions. Research indicates substantial symptom relief and...
Torch Visceral Fat Fast
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This episode delves into effective strategies for reducing visceral fat, a dangerous type of fat that surrounds internal organs and is linked to serious health issues like insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease. Unlike subcutaneous fat, which is generally protective, visceral fat can lead to inflammation and disease. The post outlines five research-backed methods to tackle this type of fat: intermittent fasting, sprinting, hippuric acid, Urolithin A, and the ketogenic diet.
Intermittent fasting is highlighted for its ability to promote fat loss while preserving muscle mass, making it an efficient method for...
Do Fat Cells Have Memory?
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Recent research published in the journal Nature suggests that past obesity might leave a lasting impression at the cellular level, potentially increasing the risk of future obesity. The study found that individuals who had lost significant weight continued to display genetic expressions associated with obesity, such as higher inflammation markers and reduced metabolic function. These epigenetic changes hint at a lingering memory in fat cells, which could contribute to easier weight gain and heightened disease risk, even after weight loss.
In real-world scenarios, many factors can contribute to weight regain beyond...
Weight Loss with Semaglutides
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The pursuit of weight loss often leads people to seek drastic measures, ranging from surgeries to strict diets, in hopes of reducing fat effectively. Recently, drugs like semaglutides, including Ozempic, Wegovy, and Monjauro, have gained popularity, yet they pose significant risks. Studies suggest that while these medications promote weight loss, they also lead to muscle mass reduction, including the heart, which could have serious implications over time.
In-depth research, such as a recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, highlights that semaglutide use resulted...
Vital Biomarkers for Metabolic Health
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Understanding metabolic health is crucial, as 93% of the population experiences some level of metabolic dysfunction. This post highlights essential biomarkers and metrics that you need to know for assessing and improving your metabolic health. By being informed of these vital indicators, you can take proactive steps to enhance your well-being and reduce the risk of potential health issues.
Ready to address the cause of your health challenges with a long term, natural solution?
Apply to work with me
My practice is entirely virtual, so y...
Keto for Kidneys
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Carbohydrate restriction through ketogenic diets has been shown to reverse conditions linked to insulin resistance, such as metabolic syndrome, PCOS, and fatty liver. This dietary approach also offers potential benefits for kidney health, countering myths about its harm. Research indicates that ketogenic diets can help restore and support kidney function by effectively addressing diabetes and hypertension, known causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Studies have demonstrated that low-carb diets, including ketogenic ones, can improve kidney function and lead to CKD remission. These diets have been found beneficial even in genetically-linked cases...
Not Just Diabetes: Exploring the Broader Impact of Metabolic Dysfunction
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Metabolic dysfunction extends far beyond diabetes, influencing a wide range of health conditions that often go unnoticed. Disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are linked to reduced mitochondrial activity, which impairs cellular function and contributes to symptoms such as abdominal pain and irregular bowel movements. Crucially, those with IBS are twice as likely to develop metabolic syndrome, showcasing the deep connections between gut health and metabolism.
The impact of metabolic issues is also evident in skin conditions like acne, where elevated insulin levels disrupt hormone balance and increase oxidative stress, leading...
Histamine Overload
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Histamine is an inflammatory mediator crucial for immune function, helping the body respond to threats like allergens and bacteria. However, issues arise when our bodies can't break down excess histamine, leading to histamine overload. This condition can result from high-histamine foods, natural internal production by immune cells, or contributions from the gut microbiome.
Our bodies use enzymes like Diamine Oxidase (DAO) and Histamine N-methyltransferase (HNMT) to process and eliminate histamine. DAO breaks down histamine from foods, with its effectiveness relying on factors like genetics and nutrient availability, while HNMT neutralizes histamine...
Fatty Liver Reversed by Ketosis
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This episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast delves into the potential of ketosis in reversing fatty liver disease. Fatty liver, often resulting from metabolic dysfunction, is a widespread condition affecting about one-third of the global population. It causes fat buildup in the liver, impairing crucial functions like nutrient processing, hormone production, and inflammation regulation; addressing this condition conventionally has been challenging.
Ketosis, a metabolic state where the body uses ketone bodies produced from fats, can help reverse fatty liver by encouraging the liver to utilize stored fat. However, achieving ketosis...
Foundations over Fancy - the Boring Stuff
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The episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast with Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson highlights the fundamental aspects of achieving optimal metabolic health by focusing on essential habits rather than complex solutions. Important practices discussed include proper eating hygiene, which emphasizes mindful eating, thorough chewing, and avoiding distractions to enhance digestion and nutrient absorption. Additionally, the episode underscores the significance of quality sleep, explaining how poor sleep hygiene impacts various health metrics and provides tips for creating a conducive sleep environment.
Another critical element is the exposure to sunlight, which facilitates circadian...
Missing Magnesium
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Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in over 600 chemical reactions in the body, yet it is one of the most commonly deficient nutrients. It is crucial for energy production, muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, blood pressure regulation, and overall heart and bone health. Ensuring an adequate intake of magnesium can help support these bodily functions and potentially reduce the risk of related health conditions.
A deficiency in magnesium can lead to various health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, migraines, anxiety, depression, muscle...
Diabetes Friendly Sugar?
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A Diabetes-Friendly Sugar?
New research highlights a rare natural sugar called allulose, promising potential benefits for diabetes management. Unlike regular sugar, allulose does not spike blood glucose or insulin levels, making it a diabetes-friendly option. Found naturally in small amounts in foods like figs and raisins, allulose is a versatile white crystalline powder that can be used similarly to regular sugar.
A recent randomized clinical control pilot study demonstrated encouraging results for allulose in diabetes care. Conducted with type 2 diabetes patients, the study revealed a significant reduction...
Protein Sparing Modified Fasting
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Protein Sparing Modified Fasting (PSMF) is a nutritional therapy that focuses on consuming high amounts of protein while fasting from carbohydrates and most fats. This approach aims to manage obesity and type 2 diabetes by providing necessary nutrients through sources like egg whites and lean beef, while significantly reducing blood sugar and insulin levels. A study from 1976 examined the effects of this diet on seven adults with long-standing type 2 diabetes and obesity, showing remarkable results in weight loss and reduced medication dependency.
The study emphasized a strict intake of protein, water...
Insulin Resistance and Obesity
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Insulin resistance and obesity are closely connected health issues that are becoming more widespread. Insulin resistance not only promotes weight gain but also disrupts normal metabolism and increases the risk of various metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and fatty liver disease from non-alcoholic sources. Addressing these conditions requires a holistic approach considering lifestyle factors including nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management, toxin exposures, and possibly genetic predispositions.
The primary drivers of insulin resistance include poor dietary habits, lack of physical activity, hormonal imbalances, and high-stress levels. Diets high...
Steps to Achieving Ideal Metabolic Health
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Achieving ideal metabolic health requires following a methodical, step-by-step process. The journey begins by focusing on liver, detoxification, and gut health. These systems are crucial for processing nutrients, filtering toxins, and supporting immune function. Symptoms like constipation, skin issues, and inflammation indicate that detox pathways may need attention. The initial phase involves cleansing the digestive tract with quality nutrients while avoiding stressors like alcohol and refined sugars. By doing so, you spark metabolic function and reduce inflammation.
Next, it's essential to "feed the metabolic fire" by adjusting food combinations and increasing...
Transitioning Off Semaglutides
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Transitioning off semaglutide medications like Ozempic and Wegovy safely without regaining weight is a common concern. These drugs, a class of GLP-1 receptor agonists, mimic the natural GLP-1 hormone that suppresses appetite and promotes fullness. However, relying solely on these medications without lifestyle changes can lead to muscle loss, sagging skin, and quick weight regain once the medication is stopped.
To avoid these pitfalls, it's essential to combine the use of semaglutides with healthy dietary habits and lifestyle modifications. Focusing on a balanced diet, sufficient protein intake, and regular exercise can...
Choosing Quality Supplements
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The supplement industry is a vast, nearly $200 billion global market that varies widely in quality, benefit, and risks. While supplements can significantly aid in achieving health goals such as improving fitness, rebalancing nutrient deficiencies, and eliminating harmful microbes, they are not a cure-all solution. It's crucial to use them strategically and aim to reduce dependence on them over time.
Choosing the right supplements is essential, as low-quality products can be ineffective or even harmful. Consumer-grade supplements, often found in local stores and online, may contain proprietary blends, synthetic nutrients, fillers, and...
When Keto Doesn't Work
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The ketogenic diet is renowned for its health benefits but is often misunderstood and misapplied, leading to skepticism and claims that it doesn’t work. When correctly implemented, keto is a low carbohydrate, moderate protein, and higher fat diet tailored to individual needs. However, it does not include “keto” snacks and packaged foods but focuses on quality proteins, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables to achieve metabolic health benefits.
Challenges in realizing the benefits of keto can stem from not achieving ketosis, not seeing expected weight loss, or experiencing adverse symptoms. Failure to ent...
Could Gut Microbes Cause Obesity?
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New research suggests that imbalances in the gut microbiome could be contributing to obesity. A comprehensive meta-analysis of 15 studies examining fecal samples from 3,329 people found significant differences in microbial species and metabolic pathways between obese and non-obese individuals. These alterations, including a reduction in short-chain fatty acid-producing microbes and a shift in the firmicutes-to-bacteroidetes ratio, can disrupt metabolism, fat production, and hunger signals, potentially leading to overeating and chronic inflammation.
The gut-brain axis plays a crucial role as well; improper signals from the gut to the brain can result in persistent...
Intermittent Fasting Vs Medications for Type 2 Diabetes (new study)
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Today I'm breaking down a newly published randomized clinical control trial looking at an intermittent fasting protocol compared to two different common diabetes medications and the effect on hemoglobin A1c and various other metabolic markers.
*This is NOT medical advice. Always consult with your health care team before implementing nutrition or lifestyle practices.
Study referenced:
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2820237
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*REWIND* Living a Fasting Lifestyle with Gin Stephens
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This is another flashback week, sharing some of the most popular episodes from the first 2 years of this show. This was by far the most popular interview episode featuring multi-best selling author Gin Stephens talking all about intermittent fasting and her latest book.
Have a topic request? Email me: andrea@healthylifewithandrea.com
Ready to address the cause of your health challenges with a long term, natural solution?
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My practice is entirely virtual, so you don't need to live...
*Rewind* Prediabetes Signs and Causes
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The podcast is officially 2 years old TODAY! We've covered a lot of topics on this show. In honor of the anniversary, I'm bringing back some of the most popular episodes you may have missed.
Show notes:
In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of prediabetes, exploring its signs, causes, and the underlying mechanisms of blood sugar and insulin. Prediabetes, a condition of insulin resistance, often goes unnoticed for years before blood sugar levels start to rise. Shockingly, over 50% of the U.S. adult population is affected by diabetes or...
11 Benefits to Fasting
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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...
Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver
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Fatty liver is increasingly common due to metabolic changes, now termed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). It involves triglyceride accumulation in liver cells, potentially leading to severe liver diseases if untreated. The liver's lipid production, influenced by insulin and heightened by carbs, leads to excess fat when insulin resistance causes fat cells to release fatty acids back to the liver. Promisingly, fatty liver can be reversed through therapeutic carbohydrate restriction and reduced eating frequency, showing remission within days to a week. For those diagnosed with prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, obesity, or fatty liver, t...
Brain and Metabolic Health with Dr Spencer Zimmerman
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On this episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast, I am joined by Dr Spencer Zimmerman discussing how brain health and metabolic health are intimately connected. He emphasized the importance of understanding and addressing the underlying causes of health issues, rather than just treating symptoms, with a focus on metabolic health, brain health, and vascular health. He advocated for a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to healthcare, debunking the idea that a single practitioner can offer comprehensive solutions for complex problems. We also discussed the interconnectedness of these health aspects, the use of specific tools...
Adrenal Health with Dr Tricia Pingel
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On this episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast, Dr. Tricia Pingel and I discussed the impact of stress on health, the importance of a holistic approach to health, and the significance of mindfulness and self-care in achieving long-term health goals. Dr Pingel also highlighted the negative health impacts of elevated cortisol levels and the interconnectedness of various bodily systems. Lastly, she emphasized the need to address the root causes of health problems and the importance of self-compassion and positive choices for health.
To connect with Dr Pingel:
https://www...
Thyroid Health with Divya Gupta
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Divya Gupta and I discussed the interconnectedness of various health conditions, with a focus on the thyroid gland, gallbladder, and autoimmune issues like Hashimoto's thyroiditis. We also touched on the importance of thorough lab testing, a wholesome diet, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep for maintaining optimal health, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to healthcare, addressing the root causes of health issues, and seeking guidance from knowledgeable practitioners.
To connect with Divya:
https://divyagupta.net
https://www.instagram.com/_divgupta
For full show notes a...
Lab Markers for Metabolic Health
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Evaluating overall metabolic health involves examining several key markers through comprehensive blood panels. Prior to testing, ensure the blood draw is done in a fasted state (12-14 hours), stay well-hydrated, avoid strenuous exercise for a day or two before, and consult about any medications or supplements that may need to be skipped. Also, try to avoid getting your blood drawn on particularly stressful days or when you are feeling unwell.
Combining these results with other markers such as kidney function, thyroid status, iron levels, and overall blood cell health, alongside symptom...
Breast Health with Carol Lourie
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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 c...
Integrative Health for Children with Dr Gator
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Joel Warsh, a holistic pediatrician, discussed the importance of integrating natural remedies with traditional medicine. He emphasized the need for preventative measures to combat the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. Joel also stressed the significance of conscious decisions for family health, including avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals. Joel also discussed the importance of mental health, particularly among children, and the need for parents to help their children de-stress. We also touched on the issue of over-consumption of fruit juice among children.
Joel and I discussed the shortcomings of the current medical s...
Chronic Fatigue
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On this episode, Dr Evan discussed the challenges of chronic fatigue and long Covid, with Evan emphasizing the importance of addressing underlying causes and adopting a holistic approach to improve overall health. He also explored daily habits that contribute to a toxic load, the dangers of exposure to chemicals, and the need for a mindset shift towards making small, gradual changes towards a healthier lifestyle. Lastly, he discussed the potential for environmental hazards, such as mold, in old and new buildings, and the long-term effects of Covid-19, also known as 'long Covid'.
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All things hormones with Dr RitaMarie
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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...
The Two Faces of Keto
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In this episode we’re going to break down why this particular style of eating has so much controversy.
People seem to either LOVE or HATE the keto diet, based on a variety of reasons.
The ketogenic diet has been around for over 100 years...so it's not just a recent weight loss craze.
In this episode I also mentioned that I'm doing a personal Metabolic Reset Challenge and I've invited everyone to join me! If you want to join or have questions, send me an email: andrea@health...
Mental, Emotional, and Environmental Stressors
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Rachel detailed her struggles with numerous health issues from a young age, leading her on a path to functional medicine. She overcame challenges by addressing root causes through diet and lifestyle changes.
Rachel explained how chronic stress keeps the body in a constant "fear" state, impacting cells and health over time. Mental, emotional and environmental stressors all contribute to dysregulation of the HPA axis and stress response.
Rachel recommended starting each day with solo time to self-regulate the nervous system and reduce stress-driven behaviors. Other tips included...
The Importance of Breath in Ideal Health
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Sachin Patel is a functional medicine practitioner and breathwork expert. He got into this field after realizing conventional doctors had no answers for chronic illness patients. Breathwork became his passion for integrating simplicity and sophistication in health. In this episode, Sachin explained the health consequences of mouth breathing, including poor sleep, inflammation, and hormonal imbalance. Nasal breathing optimizes air through humidification, warming, and filtration before it reaches the lungs.
Sachin outlined various breathing patterns like coherence breathing and bellows breathing that can induce different physiological states. The "right" way to breathe d...
