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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

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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.

For full show notes and information:
https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/9234/leaky-brain

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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

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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 these rhythms, affecting overall health. Addressing blood sugar fluctuations is also vital, as imbalances can lead to nighttime awakenings and elevated cortisol levels, disrupting the natural sleep cycle.

Stress profoundly affects sleep through hormone imbalances and neurotransmitter disruptions, exacerbated by various stress triggers. Establishing good sleep hygiene promotes better rest, involving reducing device usage before bed, maintaining a consistent sleep routine, and creating a calming pre-sleep environment. While supplements can aid particular challenges, the primary focus should be on sustainable nutrition and lifestyle adjustments for lasting sleep improvements.

For full show notes and information:
https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/9067/pillars-of-sleep

For quality supplements that I use and recommend:
https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/andreanicholson

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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.

Furthermore, the episode reveals that these contrasting theories offer different approaches to managing and potentially reversing obesity. EBM sees the brain's altered hunger perception as central to obesity, whereas CIM highlights the concept of "internal starvation" caused by insulin spikes that drive continuous hunger despite calorie intake. Consequently, CIM advocates for reducing the intake of refined carbs, suggesting this could have more far-reaching benefits in obesity management than simply focusing on calorie reduction.

Ultimately, while acknowledging the merits of both models, the article leans towards the CIM approach, emphasizing the importance of returning to a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods. It argues that avoiding processed foods and focusing on nutrient-dense meals can help combat food addictions and improve metabolic health. The episode concludes with a call to prioritize traditional, natural eating habits over modern processed diets, especially for those with conditions like type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance, highlighting a preference for whole foods that have been staples throughout human history.

For full show notes and information: 
https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/9022/what-causes-obesity-

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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 physiological changes in areas like bone fracture recovery, hypertension, ADHD, autism, Parkinson’s disease, and even infertility, purely through the power of belief. Patients experiencing placebo treatments often report significant improvements, sometimes surpassing those receiving actual medical interventions, emphasizing that expectation and perception can intrude deeply upon outcomes.

The implications of the placebo extend beyond merely "doing nothing," signifying a profound intersection of psychology and physiology. This paradox challenges traditional views by suggesting that one's belief in treatment can be as crucial as the treatment itself. 

For full information and show notes:
https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/8987/the-power-of-the-mind-in-healing

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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 targeting visceral fat. Sprinting, as a form of interval training, is presented as superior to moderate-intensity exercises for visceral fat reduction. The article also emphasizes the benefits of polyphenols, specifically hippuric acid and Urolithin A, found in high-polyphenol foods, which have shown promising results in reducing visceral fat when combined with a Mediterranean diet.

The ketogenic diet is explored through a recent study that demonstrated significant reductions in visceral fat and improvements in quality of life without calorie restriction. Participants experienced weight loss, particularly those with more weight to lose, while maintaining muscle and bone mass. Overall, the post underscores the importance of quality nutrition and suggests that while the ketogenic diet is a powerful tool for fat reduction, starting with a healthy diet is essential, and multiple dietary approaches can lead to success in reducing visceral fat and improving overall health.

For full show notes and information: 
https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/8891/torch-visceral-fat-fast

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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 diet and exercise, such as stress, sleep patterns, and environmental exposures. While the study does not establish a direct cause, it highlights the complexity of weight management and the potential influence of past obesity on present health. This underscores the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyle choices to mitigate the effects of epigenetic memory in fat cells.

Although it’s unclear how long these epigenetic changes persist, current diet and lifestyle choices remain the most critical factors influencing health. Researchers are keen to explore whether these epigenetic modifications might affect other areas, like appetite regulation and metabolic hormones. Overall, embracing a holistic approach to health, considering diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors, remains essential for long-term well-being.

STUDY: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08165-7

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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 in both fat and muscle loss in obese mice, raising concerns about similar impacts on human organ muscles. The potential side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and muscle weakness, underscore the importance of cautiously balancing the risks versus benefits of these drugs. The smallest, shortest duration dosages appear less risky, but even so, patients may face muscle loss that could hinder metabolic function, leading to rapid weight regain after stopping the medication.

Despite the availability of these pharmacological options, the article advocates prioritizing natural methods for sustainable fat loss. A focus on lifestyle and dietary changes can yield healthier, long-lasting results without the severe side effects associated with weight loss drugs. The body’s inherent ability to heal, when supported naturally, often surpasses the temporary fixes medications provide, making them suitable for only the most necessary cases.

STUDY: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2452302X24002869

For Full show notes and information:
https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/8779/weight-loss-with-semaglutides

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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.

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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 of kidney failure like autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease. Contrary to concerns about protein intake, ketogenic diets are typically not high-protein, and there is insufficient evidence to suggest that higher protein consumption negatively impacts CKD progression.

Critical to kidney health is the management of blood sugar and blood pressure, areas where carbohydrate restriction shows promise. Research suggests that even with a relatively high protein intake, a low-carb diet is effective in slowing disease progression in CKD patients. Evidence supports the safety and benefits of ketogenic diets for individuals with type 2 diabetes and reduced kidney function, emphasizing the importance of a properly formulated diet rather than processed 'keto-friendly' products.

___________

For full show notes and references:

https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/8658/keto-for-kidneys

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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 to acne and other skin disorders. Moreover, metabolic dysfunction plays a critical role in mental health, as seen in the link between unstable blood sugars and depression. The gut-brain axis underscores this relationship, where disturbances in the gut microbiome affect mood and behavior, reinforcing the strong ties between digestive health and mental well-being.

Other significant health challenges like chronic pain, arthritis, and even hearing loss are intertwined with metabolic dysfunction, emphasizing the necessity of holistic health management. Insulin resistance and altered cellular metabolism contribute to muscle loss and joint degradation, while high blood sugar levels correlate with higher rates of hearing impairment. Addressing metabolic health can mitigate these varied conditions, improving overall function and quality of life.

For full show notes and information:
https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/8599/not-just-diabetes-exploring-the-broader-impact-of-metabolic-dysfunction

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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 in the brain and central nervous system. Symptoms of histamine overload vary widely due to histamine receptors' presence throughout the body, potentially manifesting as mood changes, respiratory issues, skin reactions, and digestive disturbances.

Identifying histamine overload can involve various tests or trial approaches like adopting a low-histamine diet and monitoring symptom changes. High-histamine foods often include those that are aged or fermented, emphasizing the importance of diet management alongside enzyme supplements to reduce symptoms. Addressing underlying causes such as gut health and nutrient deficiencies can offer long-term relief, highlighting the benefit of working with health professionals to develop tailored strategies for managing histamine intolerance.

For full show notes and information: https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/8531/histamine-overload

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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 requires dietary and lifestyle changes to lower insulin levels, which can subsequently lead to various health improvements, including better energy and mood. Importantly, ketosis not only aids in reducing liver fat but also helps prevent further liver damage and supports overall metabolic health.

For effective results, implementing a well-formulated ketogenic diet is essential, focusing on whole foods and avoiding processed "keto-friendly" products. The process requires patience and time, as the body adjusts from previous dietary habits to a state where it can safely release stored fats. By prioritizing nutritious foods, proper rest, and stress reduction, individuals can experience significant health benefits, highlighting the potential to improve or even reverse certain health conditions.


For full show notes and information: 
https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/8419/fatty-liver-reversed-by-ketosis

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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 rhythm regulation, vitamin D production, and boosts mood while reducing stress levels. Proper hydration is also essential, not just through water intake but balanced with electrolytes for optimal body function. The episode stresses the importance of whole, natural foods, and regular physical activity to ensure that the body has suitable building blocks for maintaining tissue quality and metabolic activity.

Finally, the episode emphasizes that mastering these foundational habits is crucial before engaging in more advanced health interventions, as consistency in these daily routines is integral to long-term well-being. Simple and accessible changes such as mindful eating, adequate sleep, sunlight exposure, hydration, wholesome nutrition, and regular movement form the pillars of metabolic health, making these "boring" practices key to vitality.

Interested in learning more about the Metabolic Reset? Email me:
Andrea@healthylifewithandrea.com 

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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 cramps, and insomnia. Each of these conditions has symptoms that can manifest more intensely when magnesium levels are low, highlighting the importance of maintaining adequate magnesium levels. Factors contributing to magnesium deficiency include poor diet, stress, certain medications, and digestive issues.

Different forms of magnesium supplements exist, each with varying degrees of absorption and effectiveness. Common forms include magnesium glycinate, known for its high absorption rate and use for sleep and relaxation, and magnesium taurate, often recommended for heart health. By selecting the appropriate form of magnesium and ensuring proper supplementation, individuals can address deficiencies and promote better overall health.

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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 in post-meal blood glucose peaks when allulose was included in their diet. Participants also reported no discernible difference in the taste and appearance of their meals, suggesting that allulose is an easy and effective sugar alternative for diabetes management.

Patients experienced no increase in gastrointestinal distress, a common concern with new dietary additions. While these findings are promising, further research is necessary to fully understand the long-term effects and benefits of incorporating allulose into a diabetes-friendly diet. The positive initial results open the door to potentially new approaches for blood glucose control and overall diabetes treatment strategies.

Read the study here:
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/12/2802

For full show notes and information:
https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/8203/diabetes-friendly-sugar

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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, and vitamin supplements without any carbohydrates or fats. Patients experienced control over carbohydrate metabolism, reduced hunger, and were able to get off insulin and other medications in an average of just 6.5 days. Though the study's sample size was small, the outcomes suggest that PSMF could be a valuable tool in diabetes management and weight loss, provided it's done under medical supervision to avoid risks of overmedication and nutritional deficiencies.

While PSMF demonstrated significant benefits, it may not be suitable as a long-term strategy due to the potential risks of becoming overly lean and losing essential body fat. It appears to be most effective when personalized to an individual's unique metabolic needs and health status. Therefore, working closely with healthcare professionals is crucial to ensure safety and maximize the diet's benefits.

Read the study: https://diabetesjournals.org/diabetes/article/25/6/494/4083/Nitrogen-Metabolism-and-Insulin-Requirements-in

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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 in processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars can lead to increased insulin release and inflammation, while regular physical activity, particularly strength training, can improve insulin sensitivity. Adequate sleep and stress management techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and therapy also play a crucial role in regulating metabolism and minimizing insulin resistance.

Effective management and prevention strategies for insulin resistance and weight gain focus on reducing simple and refined carbohydrates, incorporating quality proteins and healthy fats, and maintaining regular physical activity. Comprehensive blood chemistry panels and other specific lab tests can identify underlying issues that contribute to these conditions. Personalized nutrition and fitness plans, tailored to individual health factors and lifestyle, are essential for successful long-term management and improved 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 nutrient intake, especially for those with a history of dieting. This phase focuses on muscle building, hormone regeneration, and overall tissue repair, supported by a protein-rich and diverse diet. While exercise can be moderately increased, the focus remains on healing and reducing stress.

The final stages involve fine-tuning body composition and fasting. Balancing blood sugar, insulin, and sex hormones prepare the body for targeted fat loss and muscle gain, while proper nutrient plans are introduced. Lastly, various types of fasting can help break food addictions, repair cells, and improve immune function, culminating in a sustainable, healthy metabolic state.

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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 help maintain muscle mass and metabolic health. Incorporating good quality sleep and effective stress management further supports long-term weight management, minimizing the need for prolonged medication use.

In summary, while semaglutides can be effective for weight loss and managing diabetes, they should not be seen as a cure-all. Sustainable results come from a holistic approach that includes healthy eating, regular physical activity, and overall wellness practices. If used, these medications should be administered in the smallest effective dose for the shortest duration, always in conjunction with positive lifestyle changes.

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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 hidden ingredients that are inconsistently dosed and potentially contaminated. On the other hand, pharmaceutical-grade supplements, available through reputable suppliers, are stringently tested for purity, bioavailability, and accurate dosing, ensuring a higher and safer quality.

When purchasing supplements online, it's important to buy directly from manufacturers or verified suppliers to avoid counterfeit products. Third-party certifications such as NSF, Non-GMO Project Verified, and US Pharmacopeia can help identify high-quality supplements. Remember, supplements should be used as necessary, much like medications, to support the body's natural healing processes.

Where I buy my supplements:
Fullscript: quality supplements, personal care products, and nutritional foods (check out my favorites inside the store)
https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/andreanicholson

Unicity: natural GLP-1 stimulating and gut repair food products. I love the Feel Great System: Unimate lemon and the Balance orange.
https://ufeelgreat.com/c/andrea

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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 enter ketosis may require stricter adherence to low carb intake and proper adjustment periods, particularly for those with long-term metabolic disorders. Weight loss stalls might need recalibration of macronutrient ratios or an examination of body composition rather than weight alone, while new symptoms could indicate other health issues or nutrient imbalances requiring detailed investigation.

To ensure the ketogenic diet works effectively, it’s crucial to assess all potential factors meticulously. Reviewing every food label for artificial sweeteners and additives and considering underlying health conditions can prevent disruptions in ketosis. A well-formulated keto approach should be seen as a long-term commitment to metabolic health rather than a quick-fix weight loss solution.

Test your Ketones at Home: 
https://bit.ly/3Ga40Yd

Learn how to do a Proper Ketogenic Diet: 
https://healthylifewithandrea.com/keto-simplified

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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 hunger and cravings, despite adequate nourishment. Alterations in the gut microbiome can also lead to leaky gut syndrome, impairing immune function, increasing inflammation, and contributing to insulin resistance. Moreover, environmental toxins and ultra-processed foods can exacerbate these issues by damaging the intestinal lining and altering body fat production mechanisms.

Addressing these gut imbalances can range from dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments to medical procedures like fecal transplants. Many individuals see significant improvements in health without pharmaceutical intervention by focusing on whole foods, eliminating toxins, and using natural supplements. Understanding and targeting specific microbial imbalances can be instrumental in overcoming obesity and related health challenges.

Published Study: 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10810176/

Full show notes and information: https://healthylifewithandrea.com/blog/7725/could-gut-microbes-cause-obesity

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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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