The Be Body Empowered Podcast

31 Episodes
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By: Jessica Vargas, FNLP, BCHHP

Created for ambitious women who want to optimize their health as naturally as possible by utilizing the power functional nutrition & lifestyle updates. This podcast aims to give you bite-size insights into what is going on in your body and empower you to bring your self-health care to a whole new level - one body system at a time. Book your Complimentary Consultation today to learn how I can help you conquer the niggling symptoms, manage a diagnosis, and overall feel better in your body https://p.bttr.to/3to0gNl Or message me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bebodyempowered/

Ep. 31: Hot Flash Causes & Natural Strategies to Reduce Them
#31
01/07/2025

Hot flashes are one of the most common and frustrating symptoms women experience during perimenopause and menopause. While often associated with aging, hot flashes can affect women as early as their mid-30s. In this episode, we explore the root causes of hot flashes, how they connect to the autonomic nervous system, and why a holistic approach is essential for lasting relief.

You'll learn:

How the autonomic nervous system influences hot flashes. The connection between caffeine, sugar, alcohol, and hot flash triggers. Why hormonal shifts like low estrogen play a significant role. Tips for managing hot...


Ep. 30: What Does 'Root Cause' Actually Mean? Untangling Chronic Symptoms for Real Healing
#30
12/13/2024

Have you ever felt like you’re doing everything right, but your symptoms just won’t budge? In this episode, we’re unpacking what root cause healing really means. We’ll explore why addressing the underlying reasons for your symptoms—not just masking them—can make all the difference in how you feel.

We’ll talk about:

What ā€œroot causeā€ actually means and how it differs from traditional approaches. Why resolving root issues creates lasting changes in your health. Real-life examples to help connect the dots between your symptoms and deeper imbalances. Practical steps you can take to start your...


Ep. 29: Is It Normal to Struggle in Perimenopause? What You Need to Know
#29
11/05/2024

This episode was sparked by a surprising comment from a social media troll, but what emerged is a powerful conversation designed to inspire and empower you on your perimenopausal journey.


Perimenopause marks a major transition—a natural shift, not a life sentence of struggle. Yet, many women experience symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe disruption. Why? Often, it's not just hormones; deeper root causes may be contributing to your experience.


Here’s the truth: You don’t have to accept feeling defeated or normalize the discomfort. With the right...


Ep. 28: Data or Distraction: Knowing When To Track & When To Let Go In Your Health Journey
#28
08/13/2024

In this episode, we’re talking about the fine line between using health data to help you and letting it stress you out. We’ll chat about how tracking can be super useful for spotting patterns and making smart choices, but also when it might be doing more harm than good. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by numbers or obsessed with tracking, this one’s for you. Tune in to learn how to use data to support your health without letting it take over your life. Whether dealing with digestive issues, hormone imbalances, working on your metabolism, or just try...


Ep. 27: Perimenopause Pounds: How Stress is Undermining Your Weight Loss Efforts and How to Fix It
#27
08/02/2024

In this episode, I’m diving into how stress can throw a wrench in your weight loss goals during perimenopause. I’ll explain how high cortisol levels from stress can mess with your metabolism and make it tougher to shed those extra pounds. I’ll break down exactly how stress affects your body and share practical tips to help you manage stress, balance your hormones, and start seeing results. Tune in for easy-to-follow advice on stress-busting strategies, smart eating habits, and lifestyle changes to get you back on track!


How to work closer with me:


Ep. 26: Protein and Perimenopause. Is Protein Really That Important?
#26
07/19/2024

In this episode, I dive into the nuances of protein intake in perimenopause from a functional medicine point of view. Is protein really that important for women in perimenopause? The answer may surprise you. Learn about my opinion on veganism, and finally, tune in to this juicy episode to get actionable tips to include this macronutrient into your diet without overcomplicating it.


Email your questions to jessica@jcvwellnesscoaching.com

Schedule a complimentary consultation to learn about private coaching options at https://l.bttr.to/RBdQM

Enroll in Steady Nutrition: ⁠https://jc...


Ep. 25: Bloating, Indigestion, Heartburn and Weight Loss Resistance
#25
07/02/2024

In this episode, we explore the connection between low stomach acid and weight loss resistance. We'll discuss the essential role of stomach acid in digestion and nutrient absorption, common causes and symptoms of low stomach acid, and how it can interfere with weight loss efforts. We will also share practical strategies to naturally improve stomach acid levels so you can successfully drop the excess weight, keeping you from feeling confident in your body and powerful in your life.


Email the show at jessica@jcvwellnesscoaching.com

Schedule a complimentary consultation at https://l...


Ep. 24: The Perimenopause, Insulin Resistance, Thyroid Overlap & Where To Start With Improving Perimenopause Symptoms
06/25/2024

If you are 35+, noticing uncomfortable changes with your body, and haven't got a clue where to start -- this episode is for you.


While perimenopause and menopause transitions are a natural and inevitable part of a woman's life, the common hormone rollercoaster and symptom hell is not normal, and it is fully possible to sail through these 10-12 years up until menopause (yes, it can take that long) with ease + confidence.


In this episode, I educate you on the overlap of symptoms between perimenopause, insulin resistance, and thyroid disease...


Ep. 23: Staying Consistent With Your Health Even During Summer Vacation
05/31/2024

Grab a notebook for this episode because I am giving you some juicy insight to how I and my most successful clients are able to stay consistent with their health practices no matter the time of year, graduation, travel plans, vacations, etc.


Free resources, get in touch, get support:

My website: www.bebodyempowered.com Have a question or a topic request? Message me on Instagram @bebodyempowered Checkout my latest free training, Perimetabolic - where I give you the formula to improve energy, moods, period + lose weight naturally during perimenopause Free health consult to...


Ep. 22: Should You Avoid Dairy? & My Approach To Nutrition Recommendations.
#22
02/12/2024

Dairy and whether you should be eating dairy is a hot topic in the alternative health world. You will likely know someone who swears against it and others who will tell you that raw dairy is the way to go.


I often hear from my clients and consults that the #1 roadblock to why they are struggling in their health is around food. They are uber confused with what to eat, what to avoid, and what advice to adhere to.


I get it; there are A LOT of opinions on...


Ep. 21: Rethinking Health Success: Are You Measuring Your Progress with the Wrong Ruler Stick?
02/02/2024

In this episode, I discuss a common question I get asked by clients and my audience: " How long will it take to x?" I am talking about reverse blood sugar issues, healing bloat, losing weight, etc.


Although I do give some guidance around what I have seen to be common, I always caveat that the body is unique even though we understand what should be happening. Personal evidence and your progress timeline won't always match up to what is expected or typical and I am here to say that it's OK and it doesn't...


Ep. 20: How Radical Personal Responsibility Can Accelerate Making Progress In Your Health
#20
12/13/2023

There are certainly times when you may have a lot going on in your body and your health issues are complex and tangled the fastest way out of the mess is with the help of a trained holistic practitioner like myself, however; you have more control over your health outcomes than you may believe.


This is where radical personal responsibility can shine a light on what is no longer serving you or what changes you should make in your day-to-day life to better serve your health and goals.


You...


Ep.19: A Functional Approach to Thyroid Lab Testing, Signs & Symptoms of Low Thyroid
#19
11/10/2023

Nearly 5 out of 100 Americans ages 12 years and olderĀ have hypothyroidism (low thyroid), and because, in many cases, symptoms are mild, most have no clue that a malfunctioning thyroid is to blame for the handful of problems they are facing. In 2019, I, too, was facing insane hair loss, weight gain, and low energy, which are hallmarks of a low thyroid. My doctor ran tests and told me all was well. It wasn't until I dug into my lab tests that I realized I was subclinical (or in the beginning stages) of autoimmune low thyroid. I get into all the juicy d...


Ep. 18: Hormone Contraceptives, Fertility Tracking, Cycle Syncing, and Coming Off The Pill
#18
10/25/2023

In this episode, we're diving deep into a hot topic that is incredibly important for many women out there. Join me as I sit down with Dr. Maya, ND, a naturopathic expert in hormones and birth control. Together, we explore the world of hormones, the pill, and their significant impact on women's lives.


Dr. Maya, ND and I share a common passion for empowering women to take control of their health, and we're here to provide you with invaluable insights and knowledge. Whether you're considering birth control options, want to understand your hormones better...


Ep. 17: Heal Chronic Symptoms Through Self-Rediscovery for High-Achieving Women
#17
10/11/2023


Today, we delve into the deep connection between chronic physical symptoms experienced by high-achieving women leading demanding lives and their detachment from their inner selves. As women, we frequently find ourselves drifting away from our physical, emotional, and spiritual needs due to our commitments to work, family, friends, and the community. This disconnection can be a breeding ground for poor health and persistent health issues.

Our special guest on the show shares her personal battles with conditions such as IBS and Chronic Sinusitis, which can be attributed partly to the unrealistic expectations placed on women in...


Ep. 16: Importance of Reading Your Labels, Hidden Triggers, & Informed Eating With Special Guest Tasha Rosales
#15
09/13/2023

Meet Tasha Rosales, a Holistic Health Practitioner, Nutrition Counselor, and NBC-HWC (National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach). She owns the Informed Eating Academy, where Tasha empowers individuals to make healthier choices by teaching them how to read food labels and make informed decisions about their well-being.


In this episode, I welcomed Tasha Rosales to talk more about the importance of reading food labels and the top ingredients she feels we should all be looking out for if we eat packaged foods - even the healthier options! Many people have tried basic elimination diets removing gluten...


Ep.15: Should You Be Eating Breakfast? Is Coffee OK Before Breakfast?
#15
08/26/2023

When it comes to the importance of breakfast, it is going to depend on what state your body is in. In this episode, I talk about how breakfast correlates with hormones, inflammation status, gut health, and nutrient status. I also give some steps to help balance your body FAST.


If you are dealing with:

adrenal fatigue: wired but tired or purely exhausted cravings after meals low energy in the afternoon need for caffeine to get going "hanger" weight loss resistance low thyroid high blood pressure and/or cholesterol prediabetes/diabetes irritability foggy brain...


Ep.14: The Connection Between High Blood Sugar and Low Thyroid Function
#14
07/28/2023

In this episode, I review the interplay between high blood sugar and low thyroid function. I give you insight into what you should look for when your doctor misses key indicators of poor thyroid health. You may have sub-clinical thyroid issues if you struggle with weight gain, low energy, hair falling out, constipation, cold extremities, and general sluggishness. Blood sugar management will be foundational in reversing these issues and returning to a body and health that lifts your spirit and confidence. Tune into this episode for practical tips to improve blood sugar balance and thyroid health simultaneously.

<...


Ep.13: Gluten & Insulin Resistance: Is gluten a root cause to prediabetes?
#12
07/14/2023

In this episode, I dive into the controversial topic of gluten and its impact on the metabolic system. Gluten is a hot topic in mainstream nutrition. Some swear that gluten-free is the only way to live, and others feel it's ok in moderation. Either way, the science backs up how gluten preys on our gut health and I give you a breakdown on what is happening inside your body when you ingest gluten. If you want to learn more about insulin resistance and how to combat prediabetes and avoid Diabetes, head to my Instagram page @bebodyempowered where I give...


Ep.12: Simple & Effective Nutrition & Lifestyle Strategies For Effortless Periods
#12
06/30/2023

This is part 2 of the PMS Series. In this episode, I give you a handful of simple and highly effective nutrition & lifestyle strategies that will support the root cause of PMS. Say goodbye to cravings, cramping, mood swings, weight gain, and more when you start to shift your nutrition & lifestyle towards an anti-inflammatory way of living. Check out Part 1 to learn WHY women have PMS and how your period can be a barometer of how well your body is healing (or suffering).


If you are ready for personalized support to upgrade your health & wellness...


Ep.11: Part 1: Why Women Struggle With PMS & How PMS Can Be Your Barometer For Healing
#11
06/16/2023

A 2-part series where I dive into one of the most common issues we women face monthly for what feels like our entire lives. In part 1, I uncover what drives PMS symptoms and tough periods and explain how you can use your period as a barometer for knowing if you are on the right track in your health & wellness journey. Make sure you stick around for Part 2, released in 2 weeks, where I will give simple yet effective evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle recommendations that have helped not only myself but also my clients experience effortless periods!


<...


Ep.10: Paleo vs Keto Which Diet Is Better For Blood Sugar?
#10
06/02/2023

In this episode, I review both the Paleo and Keto diets. I dive into why you may consider either diet, the pros/cons, and how it relates to blood sugar balance. I also give a functional perspective of what you should consider before starting either plan. If you are looking for nutritional support to reach your health & healing goals, I invite you to message me on Instagram @bebodyempowered or email me @ jessica@jcvwellnesscoaching.com. I hope you enjoy this episode!


Ep.9: Uncovering the Root: Is Low Stomach Acid the Hidden Culprit Behind Your Health Woes?
#9
05/19/2023

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of stomach acid and its vital role in digestion. We explore why stomach acid is crucial for optimal health, how low stomach acid can wreak havoc on your system, and the telltale signs that may indicate low stomach acid levels. Join me as I unravel the connection between stomach acid and blood sugar balance, understanding how imbalances can disrupt your body's ability to regulate glucose effectively. Discover the impact of low stomach acid on your digestive system and how it may contribute to blood sugar fluctuations. To equip you with practical...


Ep.8: Why Gut Health is Important, The 6 Steps To Restoring Gut Health, & The Timeline To Fully Heal
#8
05/05/2023

In this episode, I give you the top tangible reasons why having and maintaining a healthy gut are critical for your immune and hormonal health. I will also walk you through the 6R Framework to heal your gut and address the most popular question around gut healing, "How long until I heal my gut." This episode is jam-packed with just enough science and nuggets of wisdom to help you think about how you are healing your gut. If you feel like you have tried it all and haven't found success healing your gut, I invite you to book your Functional...


Ep.7: The 5 Step Framework For Reversing Insulin Resistance and Improving Prediabetes & Diabetes outcomes
#7
04/21/2023

Feeling fatigued, experiencing increased hunger and weight gain or having constant brain fog? You may have insulin resistance!

In this episode, I will walk you through my 5-step framework (plus 1 bonus step) to reverse insulin resistance & balance blood sugar, which will support hormones and reduce the risk of prediabetes and diabetes! I also talk briefly about a fantastic Fasting Insulin home test by SoWell that I have partnered with. Go to https://www.getsowell.com/insulin/ and use code BEBODY10 for 10% off their Weight Biology Kit, which tests Fasting Insulin and other key biomarkers for insulin resistance. <...


Ep.6: Weight Loss Resistance, Why Does it Happen? What you can do about it.
03/31/2023

In this episode, we will discuss weight loss resistance and what contributes to it from a functional perspective. I review the six common contributors and walk through ways for you to investigate and consider optimizing to support yourself on your journey to release the extra weight, heal your body, & thrive again.



Ep.5: Healing is a Long game & How to Combat the Desire for Instant Gratification
#5
03/24/2023

In this episode, we will talk about how to ā€œhealā€ or achieve optimal health; you must be committed to the long haul. It is easy to get sucked into the quick-fix trap out of anxiety or being fed up with not feeling well. We will also discuss how to combat the urge to find instant gratification (the pill, the diet, or the promising generic protocol) to help you stop self-sabotaging and find trust in long-term healing.


Ep.4: Why Blood Sugar Balance is Hyper Critical & The Basics of Blood Sugar
03/17/2023

We have a big episode today!!! In this episode we are going to talk about why balancing blood is so critical (and where many go wrong), how blood sugar works, the 6 core principles that are key to achieving balanced blood sugar as well as what to look for when blood sugar becomes imbalanced.Ā 



Ep.3: A Powerful Tool To Accelerate Healing
03/10/2023

In this episode I am going to be walking you through one of the most powerful tools that brings immediate light to where you may need to begin optimizing nutrition and lifestyle to promote an environment of healing and ultimately help you reach your health & wellness goals.


Ep.2: The Non-Negotiable Trifecta
#2
03/02/2023

In this episode I talk about the 3 non-negotiables for a solid health foundation. Ā It is easy to get sucked into the 10 steps to balance your hormones, 5 steps to solve your bloat or the supplements that promise healing - but in reality, a solid base getting back to basics is what will set you up for a healthy weight, optimized gut health, balanced hormones, & a well functioning immune system.


Ep.1: My Story
02/26/2023

In this episode I give a brief overview of what got me here and my hopes for this brand new podcast. Tune in to learn a little bit about me and how I expect this podcast to transform your life.