Healthy Whole You
Did You Know? Exploring the Connections Between Nutrition, Lifestyle & Wellness
Did you know...
Gut microbiome
The micro-organisms in your gut produce metabolites needed for synthesis of vitamins, neuropeptides, and hormones. Some produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that are necessary for energy production as well as immune system and intestinal barrier function. Changes in the gut microbiome may influence digestive function, immune activity, and overall wellness. Functional testing can provide insight into gut patterns and identify opportunities for nutrition and lifestyle support.
https://news.uchicago.edu/explainer/how-microbiome-affects-human-health-explained#why
Epigenetics
"Epi" means above, so epigenetics or, "above genes," is the study of how external factors such as diet and lifestyle affect the expression of genes. A commonly heard expression in functional medicine is "Genes load the gun and diet and lifestyle pull the trigger." You may have genetic variations that influence your risk for certain health conditions, but gene expression is also influenced by many factors, including lifestyle and environment.
Food Sensitivities
Food sensitivities may contribute to symptoms in some individuals, and researchers continue to explore connections between diet, immune response, and childhood health concerns.
From Study Linked Below: IgG food testing in 44 pediatric patients needing ear tube insertions due to frequent ear infections found high results for: • Cow's Milk 70% • Gluten 43%. • Egg 27%. • Yeast 7% Soybean 7%
Source: "Prevalence of Food Sensitivities in Pediatric Patients Requiring Tympanostomy Tube Insertion", Gregg S. Govett, MD, DABEM, AAEM Fall 2023 Conference Environmental Influences on Gastrointestinal Health: Addressing the Foundations Root Cause Dermatology® of Diet, Digestion, and Detoxification
Chronic Stress
When under chronic stress, cortisol production is prioritized by the body and everything else takes a backseat. Digestion becomes compromised, which can lead to symptoms of bloating and constipation. Sex hormones are also not prioritized leading to dysregulation and various hormonal symptoms. Cortisol also raises blood sugar, so when elevated from chronic stress, can create blood sugar dysregulation. Chronic stress has been associated with changes in many body systems and may influence long-term wellness.
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/understanding-the-stress-response
Hormonal imbalances
Adequate nutrition and digestive function play important roles in providing the nutrients the body uses to produce hormones and neurotransmitters. Changes in hormone patterns and nutrient status may be associated with symptoms such as fatigue, changes in concentration, mood changes, and changes in menstrual symptoms.
Pathogenic micro-organisms
Certain microbial patterns in the gut have been studied for their relationship with immune signaling and overall health. They can contribute to inflammation not only in the gut, but in the rest of the body by releasing endotoxins called lipopolysaccharides through the gut lining (leaky gut) and into the bloodstream. Research continues to explore the relationship between the gut microbiome, immune function, and overall health. Functional testing may provide insights into areas where nutrition and lifestyle changes could support wellness.
To learn more about leaky gut, click here.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8226948/
Skin issues
Research continues to explore the relationship between the gut microbiome, immune function, and skin health. Nutrition and lifestyle factors may play a role in supporting overall skin wellness and may support improvement in symptoms for some individuals.
Immune system
It is commonly said in functional medicine that "70% of your immune system resides within your gut." In someone with an unhealthy gut, the body's entire immune system function can be compromised.
Elimination
Regular bowel movements are an important part of digestive health. Changes in bowel frequency can affect comfort, digestion, and overall well-being.
Probiotics
Probiotics aren’t always right for everyone. Overuse can sometimes cause an overgrowth of even “good” bacteria, leading to imbalance in the gut. For those with histamine issues, certain strains — and foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, or kombucha — may actually make symptoms worse.
As an FDN-P, I can help you explore whether probiotics may be a good fit for your individual wellness goals and provide education on different options.