As a functional-friendly health coach, one of the most common patterns I see in clients on strict healing protocols—whether for autoimmune disease, gut repair, or hormone balance—is the buildup of pressure. Perfection becomes the goal. We say no to the 200+ evasive names of sugar, no to gluten, no to all the hidden ingredients, no […]
Why “Being Bad” Might Actually Be Good for Your Health (Off the Plate) Read More »
We’ve all been taught that “germs” make us sick. But what if the real story isn’t about the invaders… but the environment they enter? Enter: Terrain Theory. This concept—originated by Claude Bernard and championed by holistic medicine—suggests that pathogens only thrive in weakened environments. In other words: it’s not just the bug, it’s the host.
Terrain vs. Germ Theory — for Gut Health, Mood & Hormones Read More »
So you’ve just completed an elimination, anti-candida, gut reset, or detox protocol — and you’re probably asking: “Now what?” The truth is, the post-protocol phase is just as important as the healing work you’ve done. This is where your lifestyle and mindset gently take the reins — not rigid food rules. Let’s talk about how
🌿 Life After the Protocol: How to Wean In With Grace (Not Guilt) Read More »
When we think of gut health, food and supplements usually take center stage—but did you know that movement is one of the most underrated ways to support your microbiome? Your intestines are like a long, winding river. When you’re sedentary, things get sluggish and stagnant. But with gentle movement—walking, stretching, yoga, or even rebounding—you support peristalsis, the
🌿 Your Gut’s Love Language: Movement Read More »
Did you know that healthy fats can temporarily support your dopamine pathway? Dopamine is your brain’s “motivation molecule” — it fuels focus, pleasure, reward, and drive. When it’s low, you may feel unmotivated, foggy, or crave stimulants and sugar just to get through the day. Here’s where fat comes in. Certain fats — especially from foods like avocados, olive oil, walnuts,
🧠 Healthy Fats & Dopamine: Fuel for a Happier Brain Read More »
How HPA Axis Overactivation Disrupts Your Neurotransmitters Ever felt like you’re in survival mode… emotionally drained, foggy, wired yet tired, craving sugar or caffeine? That’s not just “stress.” That’s likely your HPA Axis (hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis) working overtime — and it’s throwing off your neurotransmitter balance in the process. Let’s break this down simply and holistically. 🔍 What Is the HPA
🔄 Stressed & Scrambled: Read More »
What Your Cravings Say About Your Neurotransmitters Ever wondered why you can resist candy but melt at the sight of a warm loaf of bread…Or why you crave deep hugs more than sugar during stressful weeks? Your cravings — both on the plate and off — are messages from your brain.And often, they’re tied to neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. Let’s unpack
Bread, Chocolate, and 20-Second Hugs: Read More »
How to Enjoy It Without Burning Out Your Adrenals Let’s talk about coffee.Loved by many, needed by most — and often the last thing people want to give up during a detox, candida protocol, or autoimmune healing plan. We get it. The ritual. The comfort. The energy.But when it becomes your daily survival tool instead of an occasional enhancement,
Coffee: Spice or Crutch? Read More »
As a health coach at a functional medicine practice, I get this question a lot: “What do I do when I want to celebrate… but also stay true to my wellness goals?” Whether it’s a slice of birthday cake or a night out with friends, it’s totally possible to live in balance without throwing your
The Sandwich Method: How to Enjoy Life and Stay on Track with Your Health Read More »
If you’ve struggled with stubborn low iron — or oddly high ferritin levels — despite a clean diet and good supplements, your MTHFR gene might be playing a hidden role. And you’re not alone — I’ve been there too. As someone with an MTHFR mutation myself, I’ve seen firsthand (and in countless others) how iron metabolism doesn’t always behave by the textbook when
Iron & MTHFR: Why You Can’t Seem to Get It Right Read More »
