Healthy With Vania

We all know that obesity is a major global crisis. According to the WHO, in 2022, 1 in 8 people in the world were living with obesity, adult obesity has more than doubled since 1990, and adolescent obesity has quadrupled.

While most people still assume that obesity is simply the result of eating too much, and not exercising enough, that’s not what the research has found. 

Obesity, like many conditions, is multifactorial. But one of those factors is consistently overlooked: 👀 exposure to chemicals  👀
Researchers in a 2024 paper on obesity wrote: “Hundreds of in vitro, animal, and human epidemiologic birth cohort studies show effects or associations between environmental chemicals and obesity, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses”.

Here are 5 ways that obesogenic chemicals can mess with metabolism in ways that lead to weight gain: 

👉 Promoting fat storage
👉 Altering hunger and satiety hormones 
👉 Increasing the number of fat cells that develop
👉 Increasing the size of existing fat cells
👉 Altering metabolic set points

Much of the conversation around health focuses on diet and exercise - and these are unquestionably essential!! 

BUT, if we’re working toward optimizing our health, whether it’s to look a certain way, feel a certain way, minimize your risk of disease, or minimize existing symptoms of disease, we MUST consider our environment. 

I’ll be sharing a lot more about toxic chemicals and the health effects associated with them (not just obesity!), so make sure you’re following along to learn how we can start lowering our exposure!

References: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/obesity-and-overweight, PMID: 38212644, PMID: 33449914



👉Using the scale can be beneficial if you approach it as just another piece of data in your health journey. It’s useful if you understand that weight can fluctuate due to various factors and if you combine it with other measurements like body composition, waist circumference, or how your clothes fit. However, if stepping on the scale makes you anxious, negatively affects your confidence, or pushes you to seek quick fixes instead of sustainable solutions, it might be best to avoid it .

👉Remember, health is not just a number—it’s about how you feel and function overall.

➡️Your digestive system is responsible for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, while your immune system defends your body against illness.

😑When your digestion is off, it can affect nutrient absorption, leading to deficiencies that can weaken your immune system. Eating a balanced diet rich in fiber, probiotics, and antioxidants can help keep both systems running smoothly.

👉By taking care of your digestion, you’re not only ensuring that your body gets the nutrients it needs but also strengthening your immune defenses. It’s all connected, and a holistic approach can make a big difference in how you feel every day.

✨When your digestive system functions optimally, you can experience a significant increase in energy, as your body becomes more efficient at absorbing and utilizing nutrients.

✨Additionally, by restoring balance in your gut flora, you may notice a reduction in food cravings, particularly for unhealthy snacks, which can aid in weight management. Clearer skin often results from a well-functioning gut, as toxins are more effectively removed from the body, reducing breakouts and improving complexion.

✨mental clarity is also enhanced, as a healthy gut reduces inflammation and supports the production of neurotransmitters, improving cognitive function and mood.

➡️These benefits illustrate why prioritizing gut health is crucial for maintaining vitality and overall health.

Reposting from the great IG page

Consumer Reports recently analyzed seven years of data from the Department of Agriculture’s pesticide residue monitoring program. While two-thirds of these foods are ranked low or very low risk, pesticides pose a serious problem in conventionally grown versions of the following six fruits and vegetables.

Swipe through to see why and learn the smartest substitutions.

✳️ For the key takeaways and link to the full article, comment PESTICIDE.

Link to article: https://www.consumerreports.org/health/food-contaminants/fruits-and-vegetables-loaded-with-pesticides-a2508510840/?EXTKEY=NH44HTHD4&utm_source=acxiom&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20240428_nsltr_health&utm_nsltr=health&utm_segment=digital

Here are some things I consider when it comes to optimal health:

1️⃣ Functional  Lab Testing can identify risk factors that are overlooked by routine screenings (things like a more specific breakdown of cholesterol, markers of inflammation, and levels of omega-3 fatty acids). 

2️⃣ Stress is a massive contributor to high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. We have a toolbox full of strategies to help your body better manage stress for heart health.

3️⃣ Poor metabolic health and elevated blood sugar can lead to cardiovascular disease if they are not recognized and managed early. We take prevention seriously. 

4️⃣ Nutrition & supplements can be used proactively to support heart health before any medications or interventions are needed. 

5️⃣ We look at the whole person—from gut health to inflammation to sleep and mood. Body systems do not function separately but very much depend upon and influence each other. If we want to optimize heart health, we need to optimize the whole body, physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

Tired of one-size-fits-all health solutions? Let’s create a health plan that’s as unique as you are. DM me to get started on your tailored health path now!”

👉The gut-skin axis explains the direct connection between gut health and skin health. This happens through:
1️⃣ Gut Microbiome
Changes in the gut microbiome have been linked to many skin conditions, including acne, eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis.  
2️⃣ Food Sensitivities
Gluten and other food sensitivities have been linked to eczema and other skin rashes because of their effect on gut inflammation and immune function. 
3️⃣ Inflammation
When inflammation occurs in the gut, it can lead to increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut) and trigger inflammation elsewhere in the body, including the skin. 
The usual way of addressing skin issues is through external topical applications, but to address the root cause…
We like to look at the gut. 
Want a holistic approach to healing your skin from the inside out?

🙋‍♀️Stop guessing and start testing! Learn which functional lab tests can help you reclaim your health. DM the word “ready” to get started 

🌱

The HTMA delves into the intricacies of our cellular health - identifying issues before they manifest in blood tests. This often explains why you lab results came back “normal “ but you are not felling well at all…

I use this test for every client, because it provide insights into their adrenal and thyroid functions, blood sugar levels, digestive health, and nervous system dynamics.

You might be doing everything by the book and still not seeing the changes you’re hoping for. Ever wonder why? Well, it’s like this: if our cells aren’t soaking up the nutrients like they should, or if our body’s stuck on stress mode because your blood sugar and nutrients are all over the place, you are basically running on a treadmill-

Read to learn more ? Just head to the link on my bio and schedule a free discovery call

But first….what is vagal tone?

It’s the activity of the vagus nerve, which is the main nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest) and counterbalances the sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight). 

You can think of it as the key to letting stress roll off your back. 

The vagus nerve wanders from the brain to all the organs, branching off with thousands of nerve fibers. What’s really cool is the vagus nerve communicates in both directions—both to and from the brain!

In functional Nutrition , we are all about looking deeper for the root cause and using the least invasive approaches for the most effective results. Vagal tone is not considered a “cause” of disease, but we are learning more and more about how it affects nearly every aspect of health. Plus, there are simple and free ways to improve vagal tone! 
 
Like this post and follow for more on how to increase your vagal tone for better health. 

 

👉HTMA a test that offers insight into your body’s mineral and heavy metal levels. This is more than a health test; it’s a deep dive into understanding how your internal environment affects your overall wellness.

👉By analyzing a small sample of your hair, HTMA identifies imbalances that could be the root cause of various health issues, from fatigue to stress. The benefits? Tailored nutritional guidance, improved energy, and a clear path to better health. Ignoring these vital cues means missing out on the opportunity to address underlying health issues effectively.

👉HTMA is an affordable functional test that offers a way forward, providing specific, actionable steps based on your body’s unique needs. Unfortunately, many people are still in the dark about this valuable tool, often because they underestimate the impact of minerals and heavy metals on their health, missing out on the transformative benefits HTMA testing can offer.

👉Ready to take control of your health journey? Book a complimentary discovery call today to explore how HTMA can unlock your path to wellness.

✨Unlike conventional approaches that often apply a one-size-fits-all solution, functional nutrition tailors health plans to the client’s unique needs, history, and lifestyle.

✨This personalization ensures that recommendations are more effective and directly relevant to the individual.

✨Functional nutrition involves educating our clients about their health and how different factors affect it. This knowledge empowers them to make informed decisions about their lifestyle and diet, leading to sustainable health improvements.

✨In summary, functional nutrition empowers people with the knowledge and tools they need to achieve optimal health, addresses the root causes of health issues, and supports long-term wellness.

🌱

On your healing journey , it's important to address all pieces of your health puzzle. This includes the foods you're eating and your environment.

Ask yourself: Are you spending time with people who enrich your life, or do you feel drained after seeing them?

Are you dedicating time to relax and work on regulating your nervous system?

Remember, healing is not just about eliminating symptoms; it's about creating a lifestyle that supports your wellbeing in every aspect, from nutrition to relationships and stress management.

🌱

As we age, our bodies evolve, and so should our diet. In your 40s, shifting towards more protein and fewer carbs is not just a choice; it's a necessity for muscle strength, cognitive sharpness, metabolic speed, blood sugar balance, and bone health.
In my own experience, I've found that tweaking my diet to pack in more protein and dial down the carbs was a game-changer for staying on top of my game in my 40s. As a slow oxidizer, I try to add higher protein, lots of starchy complex carbs, and naturally occurring fat in the food to all my meals.
Now, it’s not just about eating differently; it's about feeding your body what it really needs as it goes through each phase. This switch will help keep your muscles strong, your mind sharp, your metabolism humming, and your blood sugar steady.
I'm all in for making this decade a shining example of living healthily and heartily. So here's to embracing our 40s with gusto and showing the world what we're made of!

🍃

As we age, our bodies evolve, and so should our diet. In your 40s, shifting towards more protein and less carbs is not just a choice, it's a necessity for muscle strength, cognitive sharpness, metabolic speed, blood sugar balance, and bone health. Embrace the change for a thriving decade ahead! 🌟
Adapting your diet to include more protein and fewer carbs is crucial for sustaining your health and well-being during this transformative period. This strategic nutritional shift supports the body's changing requirements, helping to preserve muscle mass, enhance mental clarity, maintain a robust metabolism, regulate blood sugar levels, and protect bone density. By making this adjustment, you empower yourself to live your 40s with vitality, resilience, and joy. Let this decade be a testament to your commitment to health, a time where you not only age gracefully but with undeniable strength and vigor. 🍃

Functional lab tests are crucial in uncovering deficiencies, imbalances, sensitivities, toxins, and pathogens impacting your health. Tailored to your unique results, a customized protocol is crafted to meet the specific needs of your body.

nutrition

➡️Keep going. Even when it feels like the odds are stacked against you. Even when progress seems slow. Because every choice you make, every step you take, brings you closer to the vibrant, healthy life you deserve.

Believe in yourself. You are stronger than you know. And remember, I’m here for you every step of the way, cheering you on and celebrating your victories ❤️


💪🏼

➡️Experiencing persistent hunger can be a sign of parasitic infection, as parasites consume nutrients from the host’s body, leading to increased appetite.

✅Digestive issues, such as bloating, diarrhea, or abdominal pain, may also indicate the presence of parasites disrupting the normal functioning of the digestive system.

✅Memory issues may arise due to the impact of parasites on cognitive function and nutrient absorption.

✅Unusual food cravings, especially for sugary or starchy foods, can be linked to parasites manipulating the host’s nutritional needs to favor their survival.

✅Chronic fatigue is a common symptom, as parasites drain the body of energy and nutrients.

✅Teeth grinding may occur during sleep as a response to the stress parasites cause on the body.

✅Sexual dysfunction can result from the systemic effects of parasitic infections.

✅Food sensitivities may develop due to the inflammation caused by parasites in the digestive tract.

✅Yeast infections can occur when the balance of microorganisms in the body is disrupted by parasitic activity.

✅Sugar cravings may intensify as parasites thrive on sugar and prompt the host to consume more to support their survival.

✅Iron deficiency- Parasites disrupt iron absorption in the host’s body, leading to decreased levels. Unexplained anemia or pale skin may also indicate a parasitic issue.

As a functional nutritionist, I’m here to guide you through identifying and addressing the root causes of your health concerns, including parasites. Let’s work together to create a personalized plan that brings you back to optimal health.

Reach out to start your journey to recovery and reclaim your vitality.

The road to healing is like a journey towards overall wellness for your whole body. It’s not a quick fix, but rather an ongoing process of growth that requires perseverance over time.

One important aspect is managing stress. Take the time to identify what stresses you out and find ways to address those stressors. For instance, acknowledging any past trauma can actually help you make progress. And don’t forget to incorporate relaxation techniques into your routine.

Another important factor is proper digestion, which unlocks the power of nutrition. Support your body’s ability to break down food effectively for optimal health. You can do this by including gut-friendly foods and enzymes in your diet.

Restorative sleep is crucial for both your mental and physical detox. Make it a priority to get quality rest so you can feel refreshed and achieve your healing goals.

A nourishing diet centered around whole foods and balanced blood sugar levels is also essential. Opt for organic options and include healthy fats in your meals to strengthen your microbiome and overall physiology.

By taking small but consistent steps and incorporating these evidence-based strategies, you can empower yourself on your healing journey. It’s all about personal transformation and finding fulfillment. Start by choosing one area to focus on and take that first step towards moving forward today.

✅Chia Seeds:
Chia seeds are a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. Incorporate them into your diet by adding a tablespoon to your morning smoothie, yogurt, or oatmeal. These tiny seeds absorb liquid and develop a gel-like consistency, making them an ideal base for puddings or a natural thickener for sauces.
✅H**p Seeds: My favorite !!!!
H**p seeds are a complete protein source, containing all essential amino acids. Sprinkle them on salads, yogurt, or blend them into your smoothies for an added protein boost. They also make a great topping for avocado toast or mixed into energy bars for a nutritious snack.
✅Spirulina:- a nutrient-dense blue-green algae packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. Easily incorporate it into your diet by blending it into your morning smoothie or stirring it into yogurt. You can also mix spirulina powder into salad dressings or energy bites for a vibrant and nutritious twist.
✅Nutritional Yeast:
Nutritional yeast is not only a flavorful addition but also a great source of protein and B vitamins. Sprinkle it over popcorn, pasta, or salads for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You can also mix it into soups, stews, or use it as a base for dairy-free sauces.
✅Quinoa:
Quinoa is a versatile grain packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Use it as a substitute for rice in your favorite dishes or mix it into salads for added texture. Quinoa can also be the star of a protein-rich breakfast bowl when paired with fruits, nuts, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
✅Lentils:Lentils are a fantastic plant-based protein source that can be incorporated into various dishes. Cook lentils and add them to soups, stews, or curries for a hearty and nutritious boost. Make lentil burgers, tacos, or simply toss them into salads for a satisfying and protein-packed meal.

As a functional nutritionist, I constantly emphasize the interconnected nature of various factors influencing health. Stress, emotional well-being, psychological activity, sleep patterns, medications, hydration, and environmental factors, all play crucial roles, working in tandem with our dietary choices. It’s like a symphony of elements – how we nourish our minds, the quality of our sleep, our exercise routines, and the medications we take are all interwoven. That’s why, in my practice, I prioritize a holistic approach, addressing the body as a whole.

Through this comprehensive approach, I guide individuals towards achieving their best possible health by attaining balance in all aspects of life. It’s about understanding the interplay of stress, emotions, sleep, and more, recognizing that true well-being comes from looking at the body holistically.

In my journey as a holistic nutritionist, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of holistic practices in fostering self-love and exploring the creative elements that contribute to healing. It’s not just about what we eat, but how we nurture every aspect of our being to achieve a harmonious and balanced life.

Cheers to a year of resilience, happiness, and the firm conviction that our most remarkable moments lie ahead. Wishing you a Happy New Year!

Antibiotics💊 have been a game-changer in modern medicine💉 Since their discovery, they have saved countless lives by effectively combating bacterial infections 🦠 However, as with any powerful weapon, wielding🤺antibiotics comes with great responsibility. While they are incredibly effective at killing the bad bacteria, they can also inadvertently harm the bustling metropolis of beneficial microorganisms🦠 that call our bodies home 🏡⁠
⁠
These microscopic inhabitants play a crucial role in our overall health, from✨digestion and ✨metabolism to ✨immune system support and even ✨mental health. The indiscriminate nature of antibiotics 🤺 can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to a cascade of consequences that we are only just beginning to understand! 🤯
Thanks

💩Poop is one of my favorite subjects ...Taking a peek at what’s happening in the toilet bowl can be a quick and easy way to check on your gut and overall well-being.
Healthy p**p is like a pasta - not too hard, not too soft
-color-wise - a friendly shade of brown. But if things start looking like a Picasso painting or you notice the color wheel going wild, it might be your body dropping dai chiatin- torture body as way or keeping you in the loop…

Have you inspected your p**p lately?

∞ Talk
less

Understanding the nuances of different foods is a crucial step towards a healthier lifestyle. It's essential to recognize that while there are universally healthy foods, the concept of eating right for your body goes beyond a one-size-fits-all approach. Eating right involves identifying the foods that suit your unique body and its needs. Not all healthy foods may be optimal for everyone. To delve deeper into personalized nutrition and discover what truly aligns with your body, consider scheduling a free discovery call for more information and guidance on a tailored approach to eating that promotes your individual well-being. 🥦🍎
Source: health.cleveland.org

Diversity is the key to a thriving gut microbiome, and the foods we choose to consume play a crucial role in nourishing the vast array of bacteria residing within us.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Just like a garden flourishes with a variety of flowers, our gut benefits from a diverse range of nutrients.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Different foods contain unique fibers, prebiotics, and compounds that cater to specific strains of bacteria, fostering a balanced and resilient microbiota.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
By embracing a varied and colorful array of fruits, vegetables, and proteins, we can cultivate a flourishing ecosystem within our gut.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
So, let's celebrate the richness of our plates and feed our internal garden with the diversity it craves for robust health and well-being
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Diversity is the key to a thriving gut microbiome, and the foods we choose to consume play a crucial role in nourishing the vast array of bacteria residing within us.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Just like a garden flourishes with a variety of flowers, our gut benefits from a diverse range of nutrients.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Different foods contain unique fibers, prebiotics, and compounds that cater to specific strains of bacteria, fostering a balanced and resilient microbiota.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
By embracing a varied and colorful array of fruits, vegetables, and proteins, we can cultivate a flourishing ecosystem within our gut.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
So, let's celebrate the richness of our plates and feed our internal garden with the diversity it craves for robust health and well-being
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

and thank you for being here 🙏

By
Even in a perfect world, our gut has a hard time keeping things balanced. But in our world there are many things that knock our digestive system off balance.⁠
⁠
A few years ago, I had a total-body breakdown. Using antibiotics after a tooth infection, being exposed to mold, and a horseback riding accident all caused a perfect storm that led to a few of the most challenging months of my life. ⁠
⁠
I was bedridden, depleted, and honestly really scared. My usual go-to’s for treating myself and my patients weren’t working. I still took my daily supplements and ate a diet low in sugar and processed foods, but I realized my body needed more; it needed specific information to heal and rebuild. ⁠
⁠
Not only did I overcome that health crisis, but now at 62, I can say I am healthier, stronger, and more resilient than ever. ⁠

➡️ story resonates so much with my own . No health professional could tell me what was wrong since all my labs looked “normal”. Grateful to have found functional lab work and functional nutrition -The journey to healing is long but we need to remind ourself that we didn’t get sick overnight - our body has been exposed to many years of toxins including mold , antibiotics , environmental toxins , etc , so healing won’t occur overnight .