Unleash the Power of Functional Lab Testing: Elevate Your Health Coaching Practice in 2024

As a health coach, you are dedicated to helping your clients achieve optimal well-being. You strive to provide the highest level of service and support, but sometimes, you may find yourself guessing at the underlying root causes of your clients' chronic health symptoms. It's frustrating not to have a clear understanding of what imbalances may be present in their health and how to address them effectively.

Fortunately, there is a solution that can take your health coaching practice to new heights in 2024. It's time to add the advantage of functional lab testing to your toolkit. By incorporating functional lab testing into your practice, you can gain valuable insights into your clients' health and provide them with a more personalized and targeted wellness plan.

FUNCTIONAL LABS VS. CONVENTIONAL BLOODWORK

So, what exactly are functional labs, and why are they superior to conventional bloodwork typically performed by medical doctors or primary care physicians? Functional lab testing goes beyond traditional diagnostic methods and focuses on detecting imbalances and dysfunctions in the body before they manifest as overt diseases or symptoms. These tests analyze various samples, including hair, saliva, urine, blood-spot, and stool, offering a comprehensive view of a client's health.

One of the significant benefits of functional lab testing is the convenience it offers. Unlike conventional bloodwork that requires a visit to a lab and the presence of a phlebotomist, functional lab testing can be done from the comfort of your clients' homes. With the availability of virtual platforms, the process becomes even more accessible, allowing you to offer this service to clients worldwide.

The true power of functional lab testing lies in its ability to uncover the underlying root cause of your clients' health challenges. By identifying imbalances, deficiencies, toxicities, or dysfunctions in the body, you can develop targeted wellness plans that address the core issues. This approach goes beyond symptom management and provides your clients with the opportunity to achieve true healing and lasting well-being.

A UNIQUE AND AFFORDABLE SOLUTION

Now, you may be wondering how to incorporate functional lab testing into your health coaching practice. That's where Jeffrey Mort comes in. As a certified level 2 Integrative Health Practitioner and the founder of Love Energy Wellness, LLC, Jeffrey has recognized the need for health coaches to have access to functional lab testing and the expertise to interpret the results. He is filling this gap by offering a unique solution.

While becoming a level 2 certified Integrative Health Practitioner may take months of training, Jeffrey provides a short-term solution for health coaches who want to start offering functional lab testing services right away. By working with a Naturopathic Doctor, you can gain the necessary knowledge and guidance to incorporate functional lab testing into your practice. However, this option can be costly and may not fit everyone's budget.

For those seeking an immediate solution that is both effective and affordable, Love Energy Wellness, LLC Functional Lab Services Program is the answer. Unlike other options available, Jeffrey's program not only provides the necessary lab testing but also includes a personalized wellness plan for each client. This comprehensive approach ensures that you can confidently guide your clients towards their health goals based on the specific imbalances revealed by the functional lab tests.

UNCOVER THE ROOT TODAY

By adding functional lab testing to your health coaching practice, you differentiate yourself from the competition and provide state-of-the-art service to your clients. No longer will you have to guess or rely on trial and error. Your clients will experience improved satisfaction, and as a result, your referrals will increase.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to up-level your health coaching practice. Take the leap and apply for Love Energy Wellness, LLC Functional Lab Services Program today. By embracing functional lab testing, you'll gain the knowledge, confidence, and tools to transform the lives of your clients and create an unstoppable impact in the field of health coaching. Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to success in 2024!

The Power of a Functional Medicine Detox: Beyond Trendy Teas and Cleanses

In today's fast-paced world, detoxification has become a buzzword synonymous with health and wellness. From fancy teas to juice cleanses, numerous trendy detox methods claim to flush out toxins and restore vitality. However, amidst the noise, a functional medicine detox stands out as a scientifically backed and holistic approach to detoxification.

Unlike fleeting trends, a functional medicine detox focuses on phase 1 and phase 2 nutrients required by the liver, offering a myriad of benefits that extend far beyond short-lived results. While teas and juice have their own benefits, they simply don’t contain the nutrients needed to detoxify the liver.

In this blog, we explore the unique advantages of a functional medicine detox and shed light on how it differs from trendy detox teas and cleanses.

Understanding a Functional Medicine Detox

Functional medicine detoxing is an approach rooted in the principles of functional medicine, which aims to identify and address the underlying imbalances that contribute to toxicity and disease. Instead of solely focusing on symptoms, functional medicine delves deeper, examining factors such as nutrition, gut health, stress levels, environmental toxins, and genetic predispositions. By beginning with a functional medicine detox, the body is able to release unwanted toxins and move towards a state of equilibrium to continue the process of healing.

Your Hardworking Liver

Your liver is an incredible organ responsible for detoxification within your body. On average, the human body contains approximately 10 pints (about 5 liters) of blood. It is the liver's role to filter this blood, ensuring the removal of harmful substances and maintaining overall health. Remarkably, the liver filters the entire blood volume approximately every six minutes. That amounts to more than 87,000 times per year, and by the age of 50, it will have filtered your blood more than 4.3 million times!

Put it into Perspective

To better understand the significance of this process, consider this: your liver filters all 10 pints of your blood more than 22,000 times every 90 days. To put it in relatable terms, think about changing the oil in your car every 5,000 miles when it tells you to. We pay careful attention to the maintenance of our vehicles, but often neglect giving our livers the love and support they deserve.

The Importance of Liver Support

Unfortunately, we tend to overlook the warning signs that our bodies give us, such as low energy, brain fog, poor sleep, and hormonal imbalances, attributing them to the inevitable effects of aging, as some medical professionals may suggest. Conventional medical schools often fail to teach the importance of liver support. However, ancient practices like Ayurvedic medicine, which dates back 6,000 years and is still in use today, recognize the significance of liver health in overall well-being.

The Benefits of a Functional Medicine Detox

A functional medicine detox embraces the wisdom of Ayurvedic medicine and offers a comprehensive approach to support liver health and detoxification. By addressing the root causes of toxicity, such as poor diet, chronic stress, environmental exposures, and impaired detoxification pathways, a functional medicine detox promotes sustainable and effective toxin elimination. This approach can lead to better quality sleep, weight loss, glowing skin, more energy, lowered inflammation, and so much more.

A functional medicine detox goes beyond trendy teas and cleanses by offering a scientifically backed and holistic approach to detoxification. By recognizing the extraordinary work of the liver and providing the support it needs via phase 1 and phase 2 specific nutrients, a functional medicine detox helps individuals optimize their health and vitality. It’s time to prioritize our well-being and give our bodies the attention and care they deserve. Let a functional medicine detox be the oil change your liver needs for a healthier, more vibrant life.

To learn how overburdened your liver may be, click the button below to take our free toxicity assessment!

ALZHEIMER'S AND BRAIN HEALTH: An Integrative Approach

June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and promote brain health.

In recent years, cognitive decline has become a growing concern, with research indicating that it begins years before symptoms arise. Taking a proactive approach to brain health is essential, and adopting an integrative health perspective can offer valuable insights.

In this blog, we will explore the connection between overall health and brain function, discuss the five main types of all-cause mortality factors, highlight recent Alzheimer's research, and provide preventive steps to reduce the risk of dementia.

The Link between Health and Brain Function

To promote good brain health, we must recognize that it begins with a healthy body. Numerous studies have demonstrated the interconnection between lifestyle factors and cognitive decline.

Lifestyle choices such as diet, sleep, exercise, stress management, and mental stimulation significantly impact brain function. By prioritizing our overall health, we can enhance brain health and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Addressing All-Cause Mortality Factors

Research has identified five main types of all-cause mortality factors that contribute to the risk of dementia. These factors include metabolic, inflammatory, hormonal, oxidative stress, and vascular abnormalities. By addressing these underlying factors, we can mitigate the risk of cognitive decline and promote brain health.

The Overlooked Research

The latest peer-reviewed research on Alzheimer's is often not extensively covered in medical school curricula. Consequently, many healthcare professionals, including primary care physicians (PCPs), may be unaware of these breakthroughs. However, this research highlights new insights into the prevention, cessation, and reversal of Alzheimer's disease. It is crucial to seek out healthcare providers who are up-to-date with the latest findings and can provide comprehensive care.

Functional Medicine Lab Testing

Functional Medicine lab testing can offer valuable insights into the root causes of all-cause mortality factors. By assessing biomarkers and indicators of health, these tests can reveal hidden imbalances and provide a personalized approach to addressing them. Consulting with a functional medicine practitioner can help identify and target specific risk factors, allowing for a more effective preventive strategy.

10 Preventive Steps for Improved Brain Health

1. Low Glycemic Carbohydrate Diet: Adopting a diet low in processed grains and high in nutrient-dense, whole foods can support brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

2. Increase Autophagy with Intermittent Fasting: Intermittent fasting promotes autophagy, a natural cellular process that removes damaged cells and waste products, supporting brain health.

3. Reduce Stress (Cortisol): Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels can negatively impact brain function. Implement stress management techniques such as mindfulness, hypnosis, and relaxation exercises.

4. Optimize Sleep: Prioritize quality sleep to support brain health. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensure your sleep environment is conducive to restful sleep.

5. Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week. Exercise promotes blood flow, reduces inflammation, and supports brain health.

6. Brain-Stimulating Activities: Engage in mentally stimulating activities such as puzzles, reading, learning new skills, or playing musical instruments. These activities help maintain cognitive function and stimulate brain plasticity.

7. Reduce Homocysteine and Optimize B12 Levels: Homocysteine levels can be assessed through bloodwork, and elevated levels have been associated with cognitive decline. Methylated vitamins and activated B complex supplements can help lower homocysteine and optimize B12 levels.

8. Reduce CRP (C-reactive protein): Elevated CRP levels indicate inflammation in the body, which can negatively affect brain health. An anti-inflammatory diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, can help reduce CRP levels.

9. Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar Levels: Keep fasting glucose below 7 and Hemoglobin A1C below 5.5 to reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

10. Reduce Inflammation: Inflammation is a natural process for healing and recovery, however, chronic inflammation can lead to cardiovascular disease and many other health issues. Testing your omega-6 to omega-3 ratio and balancing with an omega-3 supplement with a 2:1 EPA to DHA ratio is clinically proven to balance inflammation levels.

Now Is The Time to Take Action

Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline can have a significant impact on individuals and their families. By adopting an integrative health approach, addressing all-cause mortality factors, and implementing preventive measures, we can take control of our brain health.

Consult with a local naturopathic doctor or a Level 2 certified Integrative Health Practitioner at Love Energy Wellness LLC to receive personalized guidance and support on your journey to optimal brain health. Let's make Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month a catalyst for positive change in our lives.

EMBRACING YOUR PATH: Exploring Traffic Options in 2025 for Health Coaches Who Dislike Social Media Marketing

In the era of digital marketing, social media has become an influential tool for businesses to expand their reach and connect with their audience. However, not everyone resonates with the idea of social media marketing. If you find yourself feeling doomed or overwhelmed by the thought of diving into the social media realm, fear not! There are alternative avenues to explore when it comes to driving traffic and growing your coaching practice.

In this blog post, we will delve into four types of traffic options: Social Media, Search, Partnerships, and Paid Traffic, offering insights and guidance for health coaches who may not resonate with today’s social media marketing.

1. Social Media Traffic:

While social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter can be powerful tools for promoting your coaching services, they are not the only means of generating traffic. However, it is essential to note that social media can provide a sense of community and facilitate engagement with your target audience. If you decide to dip your toes into social media marketing, focus on platforms that align with your coaching niche. Utilize hashtags, engaging content, and community interaction to foster meaningful connections with potential clients.

2. Search Traffic:

Search traffic, also known as organic traffic, is the result of search engine optimization (SEO) efforts, the most notable search engine being Google. By optimizing your website and creating valuable content, you can rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). This type of traffic requires patience and consistency, but it can yield long-term results. Invest time in keyword research and create content that addresses your target audience's pain points and questions. By providing value and optimizing your website for search engines, you can attract relevant traffic and establish yourself as an authority in your coaching niche.

3. Partnerships:

Collaborations and partnerships with other professionals in your industry can be a fantastic way to expand your reach and tap into their existing audience. Seek out potential partnerships with complementary health and wellness professionals, such as nutritionists, therapists, or fitness trainers. Consider guest blogging, joint webinars, podcast appearances, or co-creating content together. These partnerships can drive traffic to your coaching practice, while also fostering credibility and trust within your target audience.

4. Paid Traffic:

Paid traffic encompasses various methods, such as pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, display advertising, influencer collaborations, and sponsored content. This avenue allows you to directly target your ideal audience and reach potential clients who may not have encountered your coaching services otherwise. If you opt for paid traffic, ensure that you have a clear understanding of your target audience and design compelling ad campaigns that resonate with them. Monitor and optimize your campaigns regularly to maximize your return on investment (ROI).

Putting it all together

By now, you’re probably thinking: feeling doomed for not enjoying social media marketing is unnecessary. As a health coach, you can still thrive and attract clients by exploring alternative traffic options. Social Media, Search Traffic, Partnerships, and Paid Traffic provide diverse opportunities to generate leads and grow your coaching practice. Embrace the options that align with your strengths and values and avoid overwhelm by only choosing only one or two traffic options to get started. Remember that success can be achieved through multiple avenues, including hiring a social media expert.

Are you ready to take your coaching practice to new heights? Sign up for our Confident Coach Mentorship Program exclusively for health coaches below and get the latest information on upcoming events, resources, and programs!

Note: This blog post aims to provide guidance and inspiration for health coaches who may not resonate with social media marketing. Remember, every journey is unique, and finding your authentic marketing style is crucial for long-term success.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice.

Are Seasonal Allergies Keeping You From Enjoying the Outdoors?

Seasonal allergies are a common problem that affects millions of people every year. While conventional medicine offers solutions in the form of antihistamines and steroids, naturopathic medicine takes a different approach. In this blog post, we will explore seasonal allergies from a naturopathic perspective and provide natural ways to reduce histamines.

How many people suffer from seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis, affect approximately 10-30% of the global population. The symptoms of seasonal allergies include:

• Sneezing

• Runny nose

• Itchy eyes

• Congestion

Why allergies are not for life

Contrary to popular belief, allergies are not for life. They are often the result of underlying imbalances in the body that can be corrected with the right approach. Naturopathic medicine seeks to address the root cause of allergies, rather than just treating the symptoms.

What is histamine, and what's its function?

Histamine is a molecule produced by the immune system in response to allergens. Its function is to dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow to the affected area, allowing immune cells to reach the site of the allergen and eliminate it. However, in people with allergies, the immune system produces too much histamine, causing the symptoms of seasonal allergies.

Underlying root causes of allergies

Naturopathic medicine recognizes that allergies are a result of underlying imbalances in the body. These imbalances can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor diet, stress, and environmental toxins. Common underlying causes of allergies include:

• Leaky gut syndrome: An imbalance in gut bacteria can lead to increased intestinal permeability, allowing allergens to pass through the gut and trigger an immune response.

• Nutrient deficiencies: Deficiencies in nutrients such as vitamin C and zinc can impair the immune system's ability to respond to allergens.

• Chronic inflammation: Chronic inflammation can make the immune system hypersensitive to allergens, leading to an overproduction of histamine.

• Environmental toxins: Exposure to toxins such as pesticides and air pollution can contribute to the development of allergies.

Natural ways to reduce histamines

There are several, natural ways to reduce histamines and alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies. These include:

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation and histamine levels. Foods high in vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, and leafy greens.

• Foods to avoid: Certain foods can trigger histamine production, exacerbating allergy symptoms. These include fermented foods, alcohol, and aged cheeses.

• Increase DAO function: DAO (diamine oxidase) is an enzyme that breaks down histamine in the body. Focus on increasing your DAO enzyme naturally by consuming healthy fats like coconut oil, olive oil, wild-caught salmon and walnuts, and gluten-free grains like rice and quinoa. These can support DAO levels, which help to break down histamine.

Your Next Steps for Relief

If you are struggling with seasonal allergies, consider working with an Integrative Health Practitioner at Love Energy Wellness. Our practitioners can help you identify the underlying root causes of your allergies and develop a personalized plan to address them. With the right approach, you can reduce histamines naturally and alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies. Schedule a complimentary consultation at the button below.

UNLEASH YOUR INNER BOSS: How Transformational Hypnosis Empowers Mom Entrepreneurs

As a mother and an entrepreneur, you know the challenges of building and growing a successful business. You may have experienced moments of self-doubt, fear, and anxiety that can prevent you from achieving your goals. Have you fully considered what this is costing you?

Luckily, transformational hypnosis offers a powerful tool to help you overcome these obstacles and unlock your full potential. In today's blog, we will explore five of the top benefits of transformational hypnosis for mom entrepreneurs and how they will bring your business to the next level.

Creating Your Future Self

Many women entrepreneurs struggle with self-image and the belief that they are not good enough to achieve their goals. If you battle with these beliefs, it can hold you back from taking action and pursuing your dreams.

Transformational hypnosis helps you create a new vision of your future self. When guided through visualization techniques and positive affirmations during a hypnosis session, you can see yourself as confident, successful, and capable of achieving your goals.

You will feel empowered to take action and make your vision a reality. You will have a clear direction and purpose, knowing exactly what you want to achieve and how to get there.

Releasing Fears & Anxiety

Fear and anxiety can be paralyzing for mom entrepreneurs. You may worry about failure, rejection, or not being good enough. These emotions can prevent you from taking risks and trying new things, even though you want success for your family.

Transformational hypnosis can help you release these fears and anxieties. Techniques such as regression therapy can help you to identify the root causes of your fears and work through them with the guidance of a trained practitioner.

As a result, you will feel more confident and self-assured. You will be able to take risks and try new things without being held back by the thought of negative outcomes.

Public Speaking Confidence

Public speaking is another struggle that many mom entrepreneurs face, especially with the pressure to speak on live or recorded videos on social media. You likely fear being judged or not being able to communicate your ideas effectively. Or worse, you may fear you don't actually know enough to be speaking on health matters at all, despite your experience and education.

Transformational hypnosis can help you overcome these fears and develop the confidence and skills needed for public speaking. You will be able to communicate your ideas effectively and confidently in any situation, whether you're speaking online, or presenting a workshop in person. This can help you win new clients, build relationships, and inspire others.

Focus and Clarity

Mom entrepreneurs often have a lot on their plate, leaving focus and clarity as something that seems completely out of reach. You may feel completely overwhelmed by the sheer number of tasks and responsibilities you have.

Transformational hypnosis can help you improve your focus and clarity by using relaxation techniques and guided meditation. You will be able to calm your mind and develop a clear sense of purpose.

Additionally, you will be able to prioritize your tasks more effectively and make more intentional decisions. You will feel more in control and less overwhelmed by your responsibilities.

Habit Transformation

Lastly, many mom entrepreneurs have bad habits they may not even be aware of that hold them back from achieving their goals. These habits may include procrastination, self-doubt, or negative self-talk.

When guided through techniques such as neuro-linguistic programming, you can reprogram your subconscious mind to support your goals. You will be able to break free from negative habits, thoughts, and self-talk, and replace them with positive ones that support your success. You will feel more motivated, productive, and confident by forming these new positive habits.

Transformational hypnosis offers a powerful tool for mom entrepreneurs to overcome their obstacles and achieve their goals. That's why we created the NeuroTRUST Method, utilizing the many techniques of subconscious reprogramming to support mom entrepreneurs just like you.

If you are ready to unlock your full potential, we invite you to schedule a complimentary NeuroTRUST Method consultation to learn more about how transformational hypnosis can help you achieve your dreams.

ELIMINATE THE GUESSWORK: How At-Home Functional Medicine Lab Testing Complements Conventional Medicine

Did you know…

you can learn more about your health than your doctor - right in the privacy of your home? Functional Medicine Lab Testing is an increasingly popular approach to healthcare used by Integrative Health Practitioners that is designed to complement conventional medicine. This approach aims to identify the root cause of chronic health symptoms by evaluating and assessing the body’s toxicities and nutritional deficiencies.

We, as a society, have made amazing improvements in conventional medicine that has saved many lives. However, at-home Functional Medicine Lab Testing has become such a popular alternative to conventional lab testing for chronic health symptoms because it eliminates the guesswork, provides a more personalized approach, and serves as a preventative approach to healthcare. Here are some ways that at-home Functional Medicine Lab Testing can complement conventional medicine.

1. Identify the root cause of chronic health symptoms

Functional Medicine Lab Testing is designed to identify the underlying causes of chronic health symptoms by evaluating and assessing the body's systems and processes. Unlike conventional medicine, which typically focuses on treating the symptoms of a condition, Functional Medicine Lab Testing aims to identify the root cause of a problem and bring the body back into balance. This approach can help to prevent further complications and improve overall health outcomes.

2. Personalized approach to healthcare

No two bodies are the same. At-home Functional Medicine Lab Testing provides a personalized approach to healthcare that is tailored to the individual's needs. This approach takes into account the unique biology, genetics, and lifestyle of the individual to provide personalized care. With this information, Integrative Health Practitioners can create a plan that is uniquely designed to improve the individual's overall health and wellness, because healthcare shouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all solution.

3. A more accurate picture

At-home Functional Medicine Lab Testing provides a more narrow range of values, making it easier and quicker to pinpoint the cause of one’s symptoms. Conventional medicine’s broad window of ranges means patients may only receive treatment once their values are past the point of disease. However, symptoms can and do occur much sooner than that. With a more narrow focus, Functional Medicine Lab Testing can catch values outside of the “optimal” range before they become more problematic. If you’ve ever been told your labs look “normal,” but you feel anything but normal, this is why. By combining the two approaches, healthcare providers can provide a more effective and well-rounded approach to healthcare.

4. Convenience and accessibility

At-home Functional Medicine Lab Testing provides convenience and accessibility that is not available with conventional lab testing. Patients can collect samples from the comfort of their own home and send them to a laboratory for analysis. This approach eliminates the need for multiple appointments and reduces the time and cost associated with conventional lab testing.

Functional Medicine Lab Testing can complement conventional medicine by providing a more personalized approach to healthcare and offering preventative care. This approach can help to identify the root cause of chronic health symptoms and improve overall health outcomes. With its convenience and accessibility, at-home Functional Medicine Lab Testing is a viable alternative to conventional lab testing for chronic health symptoms that can complement conventional approaches.

To learn more about how Functional Medicine Lab Testing and Integrative Health can help you return to a state of balance and gain your energy back, book a complimentary consultation at your own convenience today.

 Jeffrey Mort is a certified Integrative Health Practitioner (IHP) Level 1 & 2, a certified High Performance Health Coach, a National Guild certified Consulting Hypnotist, and the host of the "Breaking Boundaries for Entrepreneurs" podcast.  Neither the podcast or this blog claim to provide any medical advice, medical diagnosis, medical treatment plans or medical cures.

Jeffrey specializes in helping female entrepreneurs reclaim their energy in the healthiest way possible so they can better serve their clients, their families, and themselves. You can learn more about him, Integrative Health and schedule your complimentary consultation at loveenergywellness.com.

The Mompreneur's Secret Weapon to Overcome Overwhelm and Achieve Business Success

As a mother and an entrepreneur, you’re facing unique challenges that can make it feel difficult to succeed in your business. You may feel overwhelmed, scattered, and unsure of yourself and your direction. You may be juggling too many responsibilities at once, struggling to find the time to take care of yourself while also growing your business. But Transformational Hypnosis can help.

In this blog post, we will explore how Transformational Hypnosis can help mom entrepreneurs overcome their challenges to become more successful in their business.

1. Boosting Self-Confidence and Clarity - One of the biggest challenges that mom entrepreneurs face is a lack of confidence in themselves and their direction. Transformational Hypnosis can help you boost your self-confidence and gain clarity about your goals and purpose. By accessing your subconscious mind, Transformational Hypnosis can help you identify and change negative thought patterns and limiting beliefs that may be holding you back. This can help you feel more confident in your abilities and clear about your vision for your business.

2. Improving Time Management and Prioritization - As a mom entrepreneur, you’re likely juggling many responsibilities at once, making it difficult to find the time to focus on your business. Transformational Hypnosis can help you improve your time management skills and prioritize your tasks more effectively. It can help you develop new habits and behaviors that promote efficiency and focus through rewiring the neural pathways in the subconscious mind. This can help you make the most of your time and achieve more in less time, without feeling overwhelmed or stressed.

3. Reducing Stress and Overwhelm - Running a business while also taking care of a family can be stressful and overwhelming. Subconscious reprogramming through hypnosis can help you reduce stress and manage overwhelm more effectively by helping you to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to your stress. This can help you feel more relaxed and centered, even in the midst of a busy day.

4. Enhancing Creativity and Innovation - Creativity and innovation are essential for success in any business, but they can be challenging to cultivate when you are juggling so many responsibilities. Clients of hypnosis have been able to tap into creative potential and unlock new perspectives by breaking free from mental blocks and limiting beliefs that were hindering their creativity. This can help you generate new ideas and solutions that can take your business to the next level.

5. Prioritizing Self-Care and Well-Being - As a mom entrepreneur, it can be easy to neglect your own self-care and well-being in favor of your business and family responsibilities. Transformational Hypnosis can help you prioritize self-care and make it a habit. By accessing your subconscious mind, hypnosis can help you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to neglecting your self-care. This can help you make self-care a priority, so you can feel your best and perform at your highest level in all areas of your life.

As you can see by now, Transformational Hypnosis is a powerful tool that can help mom entrepreneurs just like you to overcome daily struggles and achieve greater success in business.

This is why I created the NeuroTRUST Method; so you can use the same Transformational Hypnosis I use for entrepreneurial success, and overcome the challenges that are holding you back to unlock your full potential as a mom entrepreneur.

UNLEASHING ENTREPRENEURIAL CONFIDENCE: The One Strategy You Haven't Tried

Entrepreneurship can be a challenging journey that requires a lot of preparation, perseverance, and, most importantly, confidence. Unfortunately, many entrepreneurs struggle with self-doubt and a lack of confidence in their business ventures, leading to missed opportunities and potential failure. Not only can this leave you feeling defeated over and over again, it can also have an adverse effect on your health. While there are many potential causes of this lack of confidence, research suggests that the root cause is often deeper than most may realize. 

What’s really causing this problem?

 If you’re not getting the results you want in life or business, the problem can be seated at the core of our identity. Identity level issues are often subconscious, deeply ingrained beliefs and values that shape how we see ourselves and interact with the world around us. These beliefs and values can be formed early in life and can be challenging to identify and change. However, research-backed hypnosis can be an effective tool for discovering and reprogramming the belief system of the subconscious mind and helping entrepreneurs build the confidence they need to succeed.

Really? I Thought Hypnosis was Fake!

As modern medicine and psychology evolved, so did hypnotherapy. The American Medical Association recognized hypnosis as a medical procedure in 1956, finding it appropriate for use during surgery and medical treatments and procedures. Studies have also shown that hypnosis can be a powerful tool for transforming limiting beliefs and behaviors. In fact, research has found that hypnosis can be effective in treating a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and even chronic pain. This suggests that hypnosis can be a valuable tool for entrepreneurs struggling with confidence and self-doubt.

Okay, Who Uses This Stuff, Anyhow?

Many famous entrepreneurs have used hypnosis as a tool to help them achieve success. For example, self-help guru Tony Robbins has credited hypnosis with helping him overcome his own limiting beliefs and achieve his goals. Similarly, billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has been known to use hypnosis to help him stay focused and motivated.

At Love Energy Wellness, LLC, we understand that confidence is key to entrepreneurial success, finding clarity, and achieving the vision of who you want to BE. That's why we developed our NeuroTRUST Method program, which uses research-backed hypnosis techniques to help entrepreneurs transform their subconscious beliefs and build the confidence they need to succeed. Our program is designed to help you identify and overcome the root causes of self-doubt, empowering you to achieve your goals and thrive in your business.

So, What’s next?

If you're an entrepreneur struggling with self-doubt and a lack of confidence, we encourage you to take the first step towards transformation by scheduling a free call with one of our hypnosis experts. During this call, we'll help you understand how our program works and how it can help you achieve lasting transformation. Don't let self-doubt hold you back any longer – take the first step towards confidence and success today.

The Missing Jet Fuel for Propelling Your Integrative Health Business Skyward

Not having the right chemistry in your new business is like a new economy airline not knowing they need high octane jet fuel to actually get the plane off the ground. 

Why Most Businesses Fail

According to the Bureau of Labor statistics, about 20% of new businesses fail in their first year, and 50% of new businesses fail by their fifth year. A few major factors are their inability to be competitive, to stand out with value, and to have unwavering confidence in their success. Successful entrepreneurs know they need to have a proven advantage to gain momentum and stand out in today’s noisy and saturated marketplace.

All the moving parts required for a successful business can be overwhelming in and of itself, not to mention getting in our own way. As Integrative Health Practitioners, it can be easy to fall into damaging thinking patterns like:

• “Do I have what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur?”

• “Do I actually know what I’m talking about to help others live healthier lives?”

• “I could NEVER go live on my Instagram, that’s too scary.”

• “I feel like I haven't learned enough to help people yet.”

• “I need this other certification before I can start.”

Does any of this sound familiar to you? Thoughts are energy, and if that’s the energy you’re projecting out from your new business, how will that be received by prospects? What would you hope to gain from staying in that energy? Staying safe in your comfort zone is one answer. More on that in a moment. 

Of course we will never learn all there is to know in a vast and endless universe, but what we often forget is that we know so much more than we realize and are already well equipped to be of service to humanity with our skills and unique gifts.

And yet, we can still catch that inner voice constantly doubting ourselves and keeping us stuck in a holding pattern. Why is that?

You were programmed as a child

The answer lies in neuroscience, and here’s one reason why. Starting from childhood, primarily from birth to age seven, children are in a constant learning brainwave state called Theta (4-8 Hz), similar to a state of deep meditation. This is when we begin to take in information and stories, much like a computer download from our environment such as parents, families, teachers, doctors, and other authority figures we look up to. We hear stories about who we are, how we should be, what’s possible, and how the world works. When it comes right down to it, EVERYTHING is just a made up story in our minds. EVERYTHING.

Money Mindset and the Plastic Brain

Most people want more money so let’s use some common money stories for instance. I’m sure you’ve heard the saying “money doesn’t grow on trees” or “we can’t afford that”. Now let me ask you this: have you ever paused to consider what these indoctrinated beliefs and money stories have been costing you for years or decades? The answer could be in the millions!

The truth is, these types of limiting beliefs, if repeated enough, begin to create neural “pathways” in the brain, much like animals taking the same path through a field. The thoughts are literally wiring new electrical pathways, pathways of least resistance as they become stronger with each recurring thought. 

Eventually, the brain doesn’t even consider other options – it recognizes the path that’s there, the one with the least resistance and doesn’t think twice about it. The brain is an amazing tool of automation for energy conservation, safety, and survival. The good news is something known in science as neuroplasticity. The brain is malleable like plastic and can be rewired. 

Research demonstrates that 90% of our day is automated by our dominant level of consciousness, which operates on those programmed beliefs.

This is why you can take all the coaching programs you want, but unless you’re strategically rewiring those neural pathways towards what you want, your mind will always revert back to the old and familiar patterns of thinking because the brain loves the familiar and it loves predictability.

How can you strategically rewire your neural pathways?

Programs such as our unique NeuroTrust Method can help. TRUST is an acronym for Transformational Reprogramming for Unlimited Success Technique.  At the core of this proven method is clinical hypnosis, which can safely and quickly bring you your model of success. It’s truly life changing and a much more effective technique than traditional single-session hypnosis methods. 

Confirmation Bias

Confirmation bias is the tendency of people to favor information that confirms their beliefs, hypotheses, and what they first learned about something.

Before you recall on your first impression of stage hypnosis used for entertainment, I’m not talking about someone clucking like a chicken, forgetting who they are, or magicians standing on a rigid assistant across two chairs, or even someone in a movie stuck in trance because their hypnotist died during the session.

Although stage hypnosis is a reality and sometimes hilarious, that’s not what we’re talking about here. You’re not alone; years ago, this was my first impression of hypnosis too!

First, let’s debunk any misconceptions with a conversation about what Clinical Hypnosis is NOT.

What hypnosis is NOT:

• Stage hypnosis as comedy or dramatic demonstrations

• Hollywood portrayal for entertainment

• Amnesia

• Mind control

• Truth serum

• Being stuck in trance

So then what is hypnosis?

You may have heard the saying that “All hypnosis is self hypnosis” but what exactly does that mean? It means the consulting hypnotist is not in control of the hypnotized client, only a guide on the journey through the process of teaching how to enter a heightened state of awareness and suggestibility and down from a conscious brainwave state called Beta (14-30 Hz) into that deep meditative Theta frequency we mentioned earlier. Basically, no one is in hypnosis unless they choose to be. Only then can the changes begin to occur at the subconscious level and achieve the desired results. 

It is the purpose of the consulting Hypnotist to unlock the power of the subconscious mind to respond accordingly to the conscious mind thinking.

Is there actually efficacy in hypnosis?

Clinical Hypnosis is a scientifically proven, goal-oriented technique that involves the focus of one's attention and response to positive suggestions. It is a state of active, unconscious learning and heightened awareness when communication with the mind is elevated. In a moment, you’ll learn more about what the NeuroTrust Method can help with, but first let's dive into what hypnosis experience is like. 

Hypnosis has been described as a pleasant combination of talk therapy and guided meditation that can create immediate and lasting results.

You’re probably wondering what the NeuroTrust Method feels like. 

It feels:

• Easy

• Natural

• Relaxing

• Refreshing

• Like daydreaming

• Like creating something wonderful

• Similar to the feeling of being immersed in a good movie

• Like accessing the deeper subconscious mind

• Like confidence and surety

Who uses hypnosis professionally?

Hypnosis has been used in professional athletics and became quite popular through the 1990s and early 2000s. Among the advantages, the application was used to restructure cognitive processes, improve response times, enhance performance, and reduce recovery time. 

It's also remarkable how many celebrities and CEO’s have used hypnosis, some paying upwards of $25,000 for 2-hour sessions. This goes for many top executives, actors, directors, and producers who saw a return on their investment.

Another interesting application for hypnosis has been used to provide support for skills and improved focus, patience, and awareness to win professional poker World Championships. Talk about a win-win situation!

Of course there’s sometimes a dark side to such powerful methods.  Some people have been known to use hypnosis unethically for persuasion and influence. It's even been theorized that some presidencies in the United States were won using hypnotic language and neurolinguistic programming (NLP) techniques. 

As I mentioned earlier, my first experience with hypnosis was being in an audience at a comedy show and witnessing just how powerful it can be. I wont get into specifics but for years after, I vowed that I would never volunteer to be hypnotized. 

Fast forward a couple decades when one of my coaches suggested that I use hypnosis to accelerate my progress and I voiced my objections citing those specifics. Being a former Army Ranger active on the front lines of the war in Somalia, he explained how undergoing hypnosis prior to a mission to stay laser focused on the outcome was the reason he was still alive to tell the story. So even the military special forces use hypnosis as a winning advantage.

What can The NeuroTrust Method help with in my life? 

Research studies have proven that hypnosis can help with breakthroughs like:

• Laser-like Focus and Clarity

• Confidence and Self Esteem

• Removing Self-sabotage behavior 

• Worthiness

• Self-love

• Healing

• Inner peace

• Pain relief

• Racing thoughts and Anxiety

• Personal performance

• Public Speaking Confidence

• Habit Transformation

• Money mindset

• Releasing Fears and phobias

• Weight loss

• Creating your future self (My favorite!)

• And so much more!

How do I discover more about how hypnosis can help me specifically?

Let’s start with a conversation. Most people want to learn more about our ethical NeuroTrust Method before getting started, which is why I offer a 60 minute complimentary consultation to show you how the Transformational Reprogramming for Unlimited Success Technique can help you create whatever you want in life, and more importantly, to make sure that we’re a good fit to work together on your deep level transformation.

Now that you’re aware that the brain loves to know what’s next: When you enroll, sessions are typically 90 minutes in length, are virtual via Zoom, and always personalized to your unique goals.

Every 2 weeks for a predetermined duration specific to your goal, we’ll explore and uncover subconscious blocks that come in the form of fears, negative beliefs, and false programming about oneself, which can limit even a highly intelligent individual’s ability to achieve forward progress in their health coaching business. Remember, the brain is default-programmed for keeping you safe. 

During a heightened state of suggestibility, we remap limited thinking into positive and healthy thoughts which reinforces healthy habits and new patterns of living the life you want to live! 

Your main takeaways on this learning session:

• Not having an advantage in business can lead to failure

• Most of childhood is spent in a hypnotic state of learning limitations

• We’re naturally wired to stay in our comfort zone

• The subconscious runs 90% of your life

• Research demonstrates that the mind can be reprogrammed

• Clinical Hypnosis is safe and effective

• Hypnosis is a powerful tool for personal and professional development

Will I get results? 

Just like any successful program, if you’re committed, you show up and do the assigned homework, you’ll get the breakthrough results you’ve been looking for!  If you’re the kind of person that wants that unfair advantage to get out of your own way and have the confidence you need for success, then you’re probably wondering what the next steps are.

Step 1: Book a 1-hour complimentary consultation.
Step 2: I provide you with a recommended package based on your goals.
Step 3: We work the process and you watch your life and your business transform!

Simplify Your Health with Integrative Medicine: The Power of Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science

If you’re like most women, you’ve probably been led to believe that it takes hard work to be healthy — restricting calories, strenuous daily workouts, and making sense conflicting ideology — but this is only keeping you stuck. Luckily, there’s an easy, holistic approach to your health that incorporates the best of ancient wisdom and modern science — Integrative Medicine!

This growing field combines traditional medical practices, such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Functional Medicine, with the latest advancements in medical technology. The result is a personalized approach to health that takes into account your unique physical, mental, and spiritual needs.

MORE EFFECTIVE THAN CONVENTIONAL MEDICINE

Studies have shown that Integrative Medicine can provide numerous health benefits, including improved sleep, reduced stress and anxiety, increased energy & performance, and better overall wellness. In fact, Integrative Medicine has been proven to be more effective than conventional medicine in eliminating certain conditions such as chronic pain, digestive issues, and mental health disorders.

However, to truly reap the benefits of Integrative Medicine, it’s important to have structure and discipline in your health regimen – but it doesn’t have to be difficult.

This is where a certified Integrative Health Practitioner can be incredibly valuable. They will provide you with the accountability and support you need to stay on track with your health goals with ease. With their help, you can learn to prioritize self-care and develop habits that will lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

SELF-CARE MADE EASY

You might be thinking that you don’t have time for self-care and new habits, but we believe that self-care doesn’t have to be a 3-hour routine every single day. By creating short healthy habits that are 10 minutes or less, you’ll find that:

• You won’t dread doing them, but instead look forward to little breaks throughout the day

• You’re more likely to stick to a daily routine, leading to more trust and confidence in yourself

• Completing little habits more often will add up to improved health over time, rather than long routines once a week or month

• Short habits are easier to sprinkle throughout your day, leading to better overall wellness

a few ideas to get you started:

• Supporting the lymphatic system through dry brushing - Dry brushing has been used for many thousands of years and is necessary because the lymphatic system is the only system of the body that isn’t automated - meaning it’s up to us support it. Dry brushing can be done in under three minutes just before getting in the shower.

• Relaxing in an infrared sauna - Infrared saunas are effective at more comfortable temperatures than traditional saunas, and because infrared heat penetrates the skin, it’s also more effective at detoxifying the body. Even better, you can get results from only ten minutes in the infrared sauna, compared to a traditional sauna at 45 minutes.

• Listening to transformational hypnosis audios for subconscious reprogramming - Compared to other therapies, hypnosis and hypnotherapy is scientifically proven to be more effective for recovery in fewer sessions. This study shows the breakdown:

  • Psychoanalysis: 38% recovery after 600 sessions

  • Behavior Therapy: 72% recovery after 22 sessions

  • Hypnotherapy: 93% recovery after 6 sessions

These are just a few of the many habits you can easily implement into your daily life to improve your health! If you aren’t sure where to start we offer a powerful 8-week program, The Ten Minute Lifestyle for Longevity, led by certified level 2 Integrative Health Practitioner, Jeffrey Mort in a live, weekly virtual group coaching format and featuring the life-changing DESTRESS Protocol.

Discover simple, easy, 10-minute-or-less habits that you can start implementing into your everyday life for more energy, better sleep, and a longer, more enjoyable life! Click here to learn more about when the next TML program begins.

The Gut and Brain Connection

If you've ever felt a nervous churning in your stomach that isn't a result of your lunch, then you are familiar with the close relationship that exists between our gut and brain. As we learn more about this connection, it's apparent that the impact goes far beyond a feeling of butterflies.

This has been clearly shown in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), who are much more likely to experience psychological factors including anxiety and depression. While we used to think this connection was simply based on a person's symptoms reducing their quality of life, it appears that the health of our gut may be the reason behind the mood disorders instead of the other way around. By targeting gut health, studies have shown both the successful reduction of IBS symptoms and significant improvement in moods.

An unhealthy gut can interrupt healthy hormone signals that impact mood, cognition, stress resilience and even hunger levels. Let's take a closer look at how this happens and what you can do about it.

How Does Our Gut Affect Our Health?

Your gut is home to billions of microorganisms collectively known as your gut microbiome. They perform many vital roles in the body, including the break down of indigestible fibers during digestion and supporting nutrient absorption. In addition to this, your microbiome can impact the overall health of your entire body — from immune health to metabolic health and cognitive function.

The most important factors that influence gut health are bacterial diversity and richness — or the numbers and types of bacteria present. When the balance of these microorganisms is thrown off, called dysbiosis,it can significantly impact your health.

An imbalance in gut bacteria -- dysbiosis can be caused by several factors, including:

• Nutrition

• Infections

• Medication (antibiotics and NSAIDs)

• Stress

• Environmental toxins found in pesticides, chemicals in tap water, skin/household products and many other toxins we are exposed to that accumulate in our body

How Does Dysbiosis Influence Brain Health?

The direct connection between the gut and the brain is known as the gut-brain axis. The vagus nerve, a large sensory nerve, helps send messages from your gut to your brain and vice versa. It is via this super-highway that our microbiome can directly communicate with our nervous system.

Gut bacteria can influence hormones and neurotransmitters that affect our mood and appetite via the vagus nerve. They can even activate and send messages that influence mood on their own by producing specific bacterial metabolites. Studies have shown that people with depression have less diversity and richness in their gut. There are even interesting animal studies that have shown rats who display symptoms of anxiety become calmer after receiving fecal transplants from calm rats.

It is also known that up to 95% of feel-good neurotransmitterserotonin is made in our gut, and alterations in microbiome can directly impact its production. This key hormone impacts the entire body, it helps with digestion and eating behaviours, but is also a key mood stabilizer that affects feelings of happiness and well-being and is often used as a therapeutic target in medications for depression and anxiety.

An imbalance in the gut can lead to an increase in symptoms of anxiety, depression and brain fog. So what can you do?

Supporting the Gut-Brain Axis

Luckily what's good for your brain and gut is good for the rest of your body.

While more severe cases of dysbiosis may need a more targeted solution, here are five actionable steps you can take to support your gut-brain axis:

1. Eat healthy fats, especially those rich in omega-3 fatty acids with EPA and DHA to support brain health, nourish the gut and balance healthy levels of inflammation. Oily fish, such as salmon or mackerel, are a great source. Aim for 5 ounces three to four times a week.

2. Eat a nutrient-dense diet with a focus on eating the rainbow of brightly colored fruits and vegetables like berries. A powerful source of anti-oxidants, which support brain and gut health by combating free radical damage and increasing blood flow to the brain. Perfect to add to a breakfast smoothie.

3. Consider probiotics either from food that contain live micro-organisms (fermented foods are a great source) or appropriate supplementation to boost bacterial diversity and repopulate the gut. It is important to note that any bacterial overgrowth would need to be addressed first before introducing probiotics.

4. Manage stress levels, as high cortisol is linked both to an unhealthy gut and increased levels of brain inflammation. Calming activities including yoga, breath work and meditation have been shown to help reduce stress levels.

5. Get adequate rest, as sleep promotes optimal repair and regeneration overnight. Altered circadian rhythms can also negatively impact our gut microbiome and consistently getting 7-9 hours of sleep will have widespread benefits on overall health.

Our overall health relies on the intricate connection of every system in our body. If one system is out of balance, it has a domino affect that can lead to one issue after another. Understanding the gut and brain connection, while nourishing your microbiome through diet and lifestyle factors will promote looking and feeling your best - mind and body. If you’d like to continue this conversation, book your complimentary consultation today. (Blog source)

Happy Hormones: What Are They and How Do They Regulate Mood?

Hormones are our body's chemical messengers that regulate key functions including metabolism, reproduction, sleep, energy levels, libido, and growth and development. Hormones are also in charge of mood, producing our body's so-called "happy hormones." Serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin and endorphins impact how we feel from day to day and can stimulate positive feelings like happiness, pleasure, and love. Our body produces endorphins to help reduce stress, relieve pain and improve our mood.

Understanding how these hormones work is key since research has linked happiness and a positive outlook to numerous physical health benefits; finding that happy, optimistic people tend to have a longer life-span and increased longevity.

The 4 Happy Hormones

When we feel happiness or joy, four main chemicals in our brain are at play:

Serotonin

Serotonin is made in the center of the brain stem and largely responsible for boosting our mood. It acts on various parts of the brain, including areas that affect memory, fear, sleep, digestion and the stress response, as well as happiness and mood. Appropriate serotonin levels can help to balance mood, while low levels can contribute to a lowered mood state.

Dopamine

Known as the "feel-good" hormone, dopamine is made in an area at the base of the brain and plays a role in many functions including movement, heart rate, sleep, and our response to pain. It's largely associated with pleasurable sensations, where our brain releases dopamine when we're expecting a reward or something pleasurable. Even just thinking about a certain activity you enjoy can raise dopamine levels, which is why you continue to reinforce the pattern that brings these good feelings, like going back for another one (or more) of those freshly baked cookies or second helping of food. The intense feeling of reward is also what can trigger addictive behavioral traits.

Oxytocin

This hormone made in the hypothalamus and released into the bloodstream by the pituitary gland is often called the "love hormone." It's an essential hormone for childbirth, successful breastfeeding, and parents bonding with their children. Levels of this hormone typically rise with physical contact like kissing or cuddling.

Endorphins

Endorphins are the body's natural painkiller. They're released by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland when we feel stress or discomfort, generating feelings of well-being. There are about 20 different types of endorphins. The most common one is beta-endorphin, which is linked with a "runner's high." Endorphins rise when we eat a great meal, exercise, laugh, or fall in love.

These hormones produced in the brain are also closely linked to the gut. For example, more than 90% of the feel-good neurotransmitter serotonin is made in our gut, and changes in the microbiome have been shown to directly impact its production affecting how we feel.

Often, imbalances in our happy hormones can lead to lowered mood, energy, sleep irregularities and feeling down. There are plenty of ways, however, to help boost our happy hormones.

3 Steps To Elevate Your Happy Hormones

You can boost these hormones naturally through diet and lifestyle changes that can have a positive domino effect on your overall health and well-being.

1. Focus on Hormone-Healthy Foods

Nutrient deficiencies are sometimes linked to low mood, so making sure you're getting all the nutrients you need in your diet is essential. Certain foods can function as precursors for healthy hormone production.

Consuming specific foods trigger hormone production directly:

• Dopamine is made from the amino acid tyrosine, which can be found in chicken, avocados, bananas, pumpkin and sesame seeds.

• Endorphins are linked to spicy foods. When we consume the chemical in spicy foods, capsaicin, our body interprets the sensation as pain, which triggers the release of endorphins.

• Serotonin's precursor is the essential amino acid tryptophan. You can get tryptophan from complex carbohydrates, including vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains.

• Probiotics can also help promote an overall healthier gut, found in fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi and the drink kefir.

2. Consider Key Lifestyle Changes

Small changes to your day-to-day routine can also make a big difference when it comes to healthy hormone production and your mood. Lifestyle changes might include:

• Incorporating meditation or acupuncture: There's evidence that the brain releases more dopamine when we're meditating. Acupuncture can also help to release more endorphins.

• Exercising: Exercise and movement stimulate the release of serotonin. Go for a bike ride, lift weights, or enjoy a long walk.

• Getting some sun: Being exposed to bright light or sun can help naturally raise serotonin levels. Sit outside for 10–15 minutes a day if you can.

• Finding joy: Pick up a new hobby, connect with friends and family, watch a comedy show and laugh out loud, play music, sing or dance. Laughter can raise endorphins and also change levels of dopamine and serotonin.

3. Supportive Supplementation and At-home Lab Testing

In addition to a healthy, well-balanced diet, nutritional supplementation can be used to help support our mood. Deficiencies in key vitamins like vitamin B6 - needed to produce the happy neurotransmitter, could be the reason why you are experiencing low mood or greater symptoms of PMS. Restoring nutrient deficiencies and eliminating accumulated toxicities is a helpful way to rebalance the body and support your overall hormone function.

Understanding your current hormone levels can help you to identify and address any underlying imbalances that may be contributing to a low mood. A simple at home lab test can provide valuable insight into your neurotransmitter levels and wth this information your can work alongside an integrative health coach to establish the diet and lifestyle changes that best support you. Working alongside a certified Health Coach, armed with your individual test results you'll get an appropriate diet, lifestyle and nutritional supplementation plan to rebalance your hormones, mind and body.

Dopamine is a crucial neurotransmitter that controls the reward and pleasure center of the brain and if your body is not making enough it can lead to low mood, low energy, poor circulation and increased sugar cravings. Listen to this podcast to learn more about healthy foods that can support dopamine and have you feeling more energetic and alive. (Blog source)

Understanding Migraines and Headaches

Migraines and headaches can be difficult to understand. Despite the many years — and many dollars — spent researching causes and seeking solutions, people around the world still suffer from debilitating headaches that can come on without warning and last for days.

Migraines can come in many shapes and forms, but they all include serious pain and fatigue. Perhaps the most challenging part of migraines is their unpredictability. Migraine sufferers can go from feeling completely healthy and vibrant to feeling totally debilitated in a matter of just a few hours. This can cause serious problems in the workplace and at home, where individuals have to scramble to get their responsibilities covered while they are out of commission because of their headaches.

Is It a Migraine?

When a migraine first strikes, it can be hard to recognize. For some people, it's difficult to tell if they are suffering from a headache or something more serious. There are some medications that are helpful, but they can also have side effects. For many people, the available treatments simply don't provide relief.

When nothing seems to help the pain, it's easy to get discouraged. Like many other chronic conditions, the stress and tension of not being able to find relief from your pain can make your symptoms worse.

Understanding Your Symptoms

There are a variety of symptoms that accompany migraines, which can sometimes lead to a misdiagnosis. Besides intense, focused pain in the head, here are some of the other signs of a migraine:

• Dull, aching pain on one or both sides of the head

• Nausea or vomiting

• Extreme sensitivity to light

• Fatigue and brain fog

• Stiffness/tenderness in the neck

• Sensitivity of the scalp

• Blurred vision or blind spots

• Sinus tension or pain

• Lightheadedness or difficulty with balance

If you have any of these other symptoms that come and go without warning along with your headaches, there's a good chance that you are experiencing migraines. That's why your headache hasn't been responding to the typical over-the-counter remedies.

What Causes Headaches?

While the fundamental cause of migraines can differ depending on the individual, there are underlying mechanisms in the body that create the sensation of migraines. Basically, tension and stress restrict the veins and arteries in the body. When your veins and arteries are restricted, blood flow decreases, which can ultimately lead to many different symptoms.

There are many factors that can lead to a full-blown migraine; of course, stress is a factor. Unfortunately, many stress-relieving activities like eating sugar, having a glass of wine, or even very rigorous exercise can ultimately contribute to your migraines.

Common Triggers of Migraines

Even though there are many things that can trigger migraines, several factors are fairly common. Here are some of the biggest culprits of migraines:

Dehydration: If you don't have a regular routine of hydrating before bed, you could actually end up going more than 14 hours without water by the time you wake up in the morning. This can lead to pain in any part of the body, but can be particularly uncomfortable if you are prone to migraines.

Food allergies: Any foods that cause a histamine-based reaction — like lobster, shrimp, smoked/fermented food and even cinnamon — could be aggravating your migraine. These foods contain a lot of cytokines that can cause restriction of the arteries.

Posture: Anyone with recurring migraines should consider whether their posture is causing them to hold tension in the head or neck. If you have a misaligned posture, clenched jaw, or are even over-straining your eyes, you could be exacerbating your migraines. Sometimes little adjustments in posture can make a big difference.

Blood sugar levels: If you have imbalanced blood sugar levels, you could end up with recurring headaches. An imbalance in blood sugar can be caused by a variety of diet factors, but if you suspect blood sugar may be causing your migraines, you should consider limiting your sugar intake and reducing added sugar from your diet as much as possible.

Getting to the Bottom of Your Pain

If you have already eliminated the above factors, you may feel like you're at a dead-end in determining the source of your migraines. Because migraines are linked to constricted blood vessels, which have many causes, it can be challenging to get to the bottom of your headaches.

To help track down what's causing your headaches, keep an open mind as you gather information about why you may be experiencing migraines. Issues like environmental toxins, imbalances with your hormone levels, and even leaky-gut syndrome could be the ultimate reason why you are having pain.

There are some questions migraine sufferers should ask themselves to help zero in on a cause. For example, are your headaches worse at a particular time of the day? This could indicate that hormone imbalances are at play. Do you suffer most in the morning? This could indicate issues with dehydration, sodium levels, or your adrenals. Do you find that your migraines spring up after meals? This could be an indication that you may be suffering from a leaky-gut issue.

Treating Migraines at Home

Luckily, there are things you can do at home to relieve your pain. Using hot/cold compresses can be particularly helpful for migraines. Some migraine sufferers find relief using a cold compress on the head, and a warm compress at the feet to encourage blood flow.

Deep breathing exercises and routines can be another way to manage migraine pain. Yoga or meditation breathing exercises can help you relax, which can relieve pain.

Finally, get your body moving, even in very gentle ways. Because so much of the pain of migraines can be attributed to blood flow issues, increasing exercise and movement can be a key to relieving pain, even when moving seems almost impossible. Start small, with gentle, slow walks or even exercises you can do while sitting in a chair.

Tackling Your Migraines

Like so many chronic conditions, healing migraines requires paying close attention to your body. While your migraines can often seem to come on at random, there are usually triggers. A wide variety of factors could be contributing to your pain — your diet, toxins in your environment, gut issues, hormonal issues and more.

There are specialized at-home lab tests you can take to help you understand what triggers your condition and how you can move forward. You may want to start with one that takes an in-depth look at your body's heavy metal toxicity and mineral levels.

Case Study: Migraines & Exercise

Brooke is a 45-year-old marathon runner who has always been in great shape because of her active hobby. But in the last couple of years, she began suffering from migraines. Even though she made diet changes and tried some prescription medications, the migraines seemed to get worse and more frequent.

Brooke decided to take an at-home lab test to look at her thyroid and adrenal hormone levels. She also made a detailed food diary, reflecting on what foods seemed to exacerbate the pain. Brooke discovered that her hormonal levels were in flux, indicating that she was actually premenopausal.

Once she realized that hormonal imbalance was a factor in her migraines, she was able to start a customized regimen of supplements and minerals to help bring her back into balance. At the same time, Brooke's food diary revealed that she was having trouble especially in the mornings and after runs. Brooke realized that even though she was drinking plenty of water, she was no longer absorbing electrolytes the way she used to. By focusing attention on adjusting her diet and balancing her hormones, Brooke was able to finally end her migraines. She's happy to report she hasn't had one in over six months!

Ready to Get Rid of Migraines for Good?

If you've been dealing with migraines for a long time, it can seem like an overwhelming issue to address. But with commitment and discipline, you can finally get to the bottom of why you have been struggling with this difficult illness. Book a complimentary consultation today. (Blog source)

How Chronic Stress Leads to Irregular Sleep and a Lowered Immune Response

In the current world, it may seem like it's impossible to avoid stress. Uncertainty lies everywhere we turn.

With heightened stress linked to irregular sleep patterns and lowered immunity, now more than ever it is important to balance stress levels.

Read on to learn why this happens and what you can do to help your body!

How Chronic Stress Leads to Irregular Sleep and a Lowered Immune Response

When the body is faced with a short term stressor, otherwise known as acute stress, it triggers the fight or flight response. This response releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol from the adrenal glands. Adrenaline produces a more immediate response, whereas cortisol is released through a multistep process and therefore takes more time to activate.

Once the stress is over, these hormone levels return to normal, but repeated bouts of acute stress can turn into chronic stress. During chronic stress, these hormone levels stay activated.

Stress at a Microscopic Level

Continuous exposure to the stress hormone cortisol can disturb many different bodily processes including sleep. Both stress and sleep response are regulated by the Hypothalamus Pituitary Adrenal (HPA) axis. When the HPA axis is overactive, your sleep cycle can be disrupted. Lack of sleep causes the body to stimulate more cortisol to be released during the day to mimic "awakeness," which perpetuates the cycle.

Additionally, when you sleep, your body creates cytokines. Cytokines are chemical messengers between immune cells and can be pro or anti-inflammatory. Lack of sleep lowers the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, leading to increased inflammation in the body.

High cortisol levels also impair the production of T-cells. T-cells are a type of white blood cell which are essential in the body's immune response. The T-cells called TH1 Helper Cells aid in the body's defense system. During times of stress, these TH1 cells are suppressed and fall out of balance with their counterparts, TH2 cells.

Listen to Cabral Concept 1320: The Truth Behind How Much Sleep You Need Per Night

What You Can Do to Help Your Body

Unbalanced hormone secretion from chronic stress and lack of sleep can lead to a lowered immune response and/or elevated levels of inflammation. Because a healthy immune system is of the utmost importance, it is essential to find healthy ways to improve hormone balance and sleep.

For better sleep, try cutting back on caffeine. Caffeine can raise blood pressure and cortisol levels when paired with a stressor. If you still have trouble sleeping, periodically taking supplements like melatonin has been shown to help regulate circadian rhythms.

Fixing stress levels on the other hand is easier said than done. Everyone has different reactions to stressors based on their own genetics and life experiences, so there is never just one solution.

Some people like meditation, exercise, or talking with their loved ones. The most important thing is to find a strategy that works for you.

Why Do I Experience Persistent Bloating?

Bloating is a common yet often misunderstood digestive symptom. If you experience persistent bloating, the cause behind it may not be what you think.

This article will outline what bloating is, what may be causing it and what you can do about it to support your body and your digestive health overall.

What Is Bloating?

Bloating can be much more than just your stomach expanding after you eat a meal, which is a normal process for everyone to a certain degree. With bloating, your stomach becomes filled with air in addition to food which can lead to feelings of fullness or tightness in the stomach, which can be uncomfortable.

Other symptoms, like gas, burping, and abdominal pain, can sometimes accompany bloating.

Why Does Bloating Happen?

Bloating is most often a symptom of poor digestion. While many things can contribute to this, here are three underlying reasons you may experience persistent bloating:

1. Imbalanced gut bacteria. Bloating is primarily linked to a digestive imbalance within your gut. The bacteria in your gut make up your microbiome, assisting with digestion. When there are more bad bacteria than good, a condition called dysbiosis can occur, which can lead to unpleasant symptoms like bloating.

2. Food sensitivities and intolerances. These are types of adverse food reactions that can lead to bloating. However, experiencing bloating or gas does not necessarily mean you have a food sensitivity or intolerance, which can be a common misconception. Food sensitivities and intolerances can occur from many foods, even healthy ones. However, gluten and dairy are two of the most common offenders.

3. Low Stomach Acid.Suppose you experience bloating within 30 minutes of eating. In that case, it is often related to having low stomach acid, which is essential for digestion, especially breaking down harder-to-digest protein and fats and its role in absorbing nutrients. Stomach acid also plays an integral part in destroying the bacteria naturally present in food and other harmful microbes we ingest to maintain a healthy microbiome.

More serious underlying conditions can also contribute to bloating, so it's essential to understand your individual health imbalances and learn more about the four leading causes of digestive and gut health problems.

How To Improve Persistent Bloating

Bloating doesn't have to be something you live with forever. Here are some steps to support your body and find relief from bloating.

Figure Out Its Root Cause

This is the first and most essential step to addressing any health issue. A simple at-home lab test can help identify your underlying digestive imbalance and the appropriate support you need to address this at a deeper level, rather than masking the symptoms that prescribed medication may offer as a short-term solution. Since severe and persistent bloating can signify a bacterial imbalance, using a test is a very effective and easy way to start.

Identifying foods you may be sensitive to that trigger digestive upset is another helpful strategy. Following an appropriate elimination diet after testing and supportive supplementation to restore the gut can help rebalance the digestive system and remove associated unpleasant symptoms.

Support Bloating with Natural Foods and Supplementation

Ginger is a natural digestive enzyme well-known and studied for its beneficial effects on digestion. It can help with things like nausea, gas, and bloating, and it can also support regular stomach emptying, therefore improving the body's ability to digest various foods. Sip on a warm cup of ginger tea before or during a meal using freshly peeled and grated ginger or an organic tea bag, add fresh ginger to your breakfast smoothie, incorporate it in your cooking or take natural ginger supplements.

Digestive enzymes are also found in supplement form and can improve bloating due to their assistance with the proper breakdown and digestion of food after eating. A daily digestive enzyme can be used with whole food meals that are harder to digest or more targeted supportive enzymes for specific trigger foods, like gluten and dairy, two of the most common food sensitivities that can cause digestive discomfort.

If you suspect or identify that you have a bacterial imbalance, following a specifically formulated protocol can help to rebalance the gut by removing harmful microbes, replenishing beneficial bacteria and restoring your gut barrier.

Remove Triggers

Having a healthy balance of gut bacteria, strong digestion and adequate stomach acid are critical factors in minimizing bloating or other symptoms of digestive upset. If you experience persistent bloating, you may want to consider some of these common triggers and decrease digestive discomfort:

• Limit the amount of fried and processed foods and any foods you may be sensitive to. You may be able to enjoy these foods without discomfort when your gut is rebalanced.

• Excessive air in the stomach can also contribute to bloating; taking steps to reduce the amount of air swallowed can help decrease bloating, burping and gas. Consider limiting carbonated beverages, chewing gum and not drinking through a straw.

• Avoid high amounts of caffeine and alcohol that can lower stomach acid levels.

• Try to practice mindful eating: never stand and eat, and chew your food correctly into a paste before you swallow to allow digestive enzymes to do their job efficiently.

• Reduce stress as a relaxed state is needed for optimal digestion.

Due to the wide range of possible reasons you may experience persistent bloating, identifying the most effective support for you can be confusing. Working with a certified health coach can help uncover the underlying root cause behind your bloating and guide you in selecting the appropriate at-home lab tests, supplements, and diet and lifestyle changes to alleviate your symptoms and continue bloat-free.

20 Detox Tips and Common Questions Answered

There are increasing toxins in our diet, lifestyle, and environment. With well over 77,000 artificial chemicals from the food we eat, personal care products, everyday household cleaners, and the water we drink, supporting the body's natural ability to detoxify is no longer just a choice – it's a necessity, even if you're healthy. There are many detox tips and different detoxes depending on your goals, but all are not equal. That's why a functional medicine liver detox is widely recommended to best support our primary detox organ and its essential function, detoxification. It uses extended fasting strategies with scientifically formulated herbal remedies and the key nutrients needed to mobilize the accumulation of harmful stored toxins and eliminate them more efficiently.

Here are 20 detox tips and answers to the most common questions on what you can do to get the most out of your detox and what you may want to avoid. Of course, always use your best judgment based on your individual health and goals. Working with a certified health practitioner can help you understand what is best for you and any appropriate recommendations or adaptations to optimize your detoxification strategy.

1. Can I work out?

Yes and no. Working out is essential for our health and one of the ways the body eliminates toxins through breath and sweat, but it is also a stressor and can deplete glucose levels, leaving you feeling more tired. You may want to avoid intense exercise on fasting days during a detox. You can still incorporate lower-intensity movement like walking and using a sauna can support further elimination of toxins without overexerting yourself. You can resume your usual workout routine on days when you consume more calories or feel you have adequate energy.

2. Can I drink nut milk?

Yes, unsweetened plant-based milk can be added to your detox shake or in a hot beverage if you choose to.

3. Can I drink coffee and tea?

Yes, if you regularly drink coffee or experience caffeine withdrawal symptoms, you can include it during your detox. Try to limit it to one cup of organic coffee in the morning (black or with unsweetened nut milk). For some, it can slow down the detoxification process, so you may want to avoid caffeine or have an organic decaffeinated coffee. Most herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free, so feel free to include any you enjoy, like ginger, chamomile, mint and turmeric.

4. How much can I eat?

A detox aims to give your body digestive rest through extended fasting, lighter meals and removing common food triggers. That said, it's not just about how much you eat — you should also consider the quality and type of food you're eating. Eat slowly until satiated, focusing on easy-to-digest foods that provide balanced nutrition.

5. What can I eat?

Follow the appropriate food list recommendations. The general focus is fresh, nutrient-dense, high-quality whole foods, organic where possible and non-GMO. Many food lists will eliminate common allergens and sensitivities (dairy, gluten, corn, eggs and red meat), alcohol, processed foods and refined sugars.

6. Does lunch have to be plant-based?

Plant-based protein is easier to digest than animal sources and can also reduce the overall toxic load on the body, which is the ultimate goal of a detox. Incorporating more plant-based meals is recommended.

7. Can I have two shakes instead of four during the shake fast?

While four shakes spread across the day give your body adequate hydration and nutrition every 3,5 hours to keep energy and blood sugar levels balanced, you could have two shakes if this works best for you. Just be sure you are still getting adequate hydration to flush the system and support effective elimination throughout the day.

8. Can I still detox if I'm not trying to lose weight?

Absolutely! A liver detox is designed to support your body's natural detoxification process by replenishing nutrient stores and removing toxic water weight that can lead to unhealthy levels of inflammation and leave you feeling puffy, lowered energy and mood, poor sleep and more. It can facilitate weight loss if that is a goal, and if you don't want to lose weight, appropriate adjustments can be made.

9. How regularly can I detox?

A quarterly (seasonal) detox about every 12 weeks is recommended to best support the body.

10. Can I use herbs and spices?

Yes, herbs and spices can help chelate (or bind) heavy metals, boost metabolism, and kill "gut bugs." They're a great addition to any detox, and add flavor to any dish!

11. When should I not detox?

Children, pregnant or nursing women should not detox. If you have any underlying medical condition or concern, you should also always speak with your primary care doctor before doing any type of detox.

12. Can I eat more than the recommended serving sizes?

Yes, you can eat more if you are still hungry but remember the goal of a detox is to reduce the total toxic load on the body. Take time to eat slowly and allow your body to feel satiated. Make sure you have enough protein and if you are still hungry, opt for extra vegetables that are nutrient and fiber dense but lower in calories.

13. When do I drink a shake during the shake fast?

You can adjust the timing of your shakes based on your schedule. A general guideline is to have the first shake about an hour after waking and then about every three and a half hours apart across the day.

14. Can I keep taking my current supplements and prescribed medicine?

This will depend on the individual and the supplement/medication. It would be best to stay on any medication prescribed by your healthcare practitioner and confirm that there are no contraindications with any ingredients in the detox products. You may want to stop nutritional supplements during the extended fasting days, but most should be safe to continue - use your best judgment.

15. What is the best day to start a detox?

You can begin on any day that works for you. It is not advisable after a night of high alcohol consumption due to its effect on blood sugar levels.

16. Do I have to fast on the first two days?

Completing an extended fast is recommended to optimize the benefits of digestive rest and repair. However, adjustments can be made that may better suit your current health and goals. You can incorporate some low glycemic berries in your shake - especially if weight loss is not a goal or follow the same outline on days where more foods are consumed ie. two meals and two shakes.

17. Should I stop the detox if I experience side effects?

It is not uncommon to experience flu-like symptoms or other Herxheimer reactions.This will always come down to the individual, type and severity of side effects. They are usually short-term, but you should speak to your doctor if you have any major concerns.

18. Can I detox while doing another wellness protocol?

Generally yes, but to keep things simple and avoid overwhelm you may want to go through one protocol at a time. Work with an integrative health practitioner if you need additional support on what is best for you.

19. What should I do once the detox ends?

To support your body for long-term wellness, follow the foundations of nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory whole foods to create balanced meals. Incorporate additional starches based on your health goals.

20. How do I maintain my results and health after the detox?

Whether you have a continued weight loss goal or wish to maintain your results,the foundations of following diet and lifestyle principles will stand you in good stead.

Following these detox tips and answers to the most common questions can be a great way to optimize your health and get the most out of it. If you'd like to take your health to the next level, you can work with a certified health practitioner to better understand your current health and goals and work alongside you with a custom wellness plan for long-term success.

If you are ready to take your health to the next level, click here to learn more about a true Functional Medicine detox! (Blog source)

Vitamin D and Immune Health

Vitamin D plays a key role in over 300 processes in the body, making it no surprise that it has long been considered a super nutrient. Often called the sunshine vitamin, there is even more of a reason to shine a light on its immune-boosting benefits as we enter the winter season in the U.S.

That's because even though it is important to our health, our body can't make it on its own. In fact, most people get their vitamin D through a chemical reaction that takes place in the skin during sun exposure.

As the sun sets on the summer/fall season and people spend more time indoors, now is the perfect opportunity to ensure you are not a part of more than 40% of the US population estimated to be deficient in vitamin D.

Read on to find out more about this superstar vitamin and how it can power a healthy immune response throughout the year.

Vitamin D and Immune Health

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that is required for the body to function well. Your body can source Vitamin D from food as well as produce it naturally in response to sunlight exposure. Unfortunately, many people are deficient and many more are functioning at sub-optimal levels for robust health.

Multiple factors affect the body's ability to produce vitamin D including the season, weather, location, air pollution, sunscreen use, skin tone and age. The body breaks down vitamin D quickly, meaning that stores can run low without regular consumption or consistent direct sunlight exposure. Vitamin D levels have also been shown to decline with age, primarily due to a reduction in either the absorption or metabolism by the liver. Additionally, vegans/vegetarians can be more susceptible to low levels of this vitamin, as the richest dietary sources are predominantly animal-based.

When the body is low in vitamin D, immune function can be affected. Many recent studies have confirmed the significant role of vitamin D in the inflammatory cytokine response. Optimal levels have been shown to protect against invaders; by increasing white blood cell production the ability for harmful replication is decreased.

In addition to immune system support, adequate levels of vitamin D also offers the following benefits:

• Maintains bone and dental health

• Increases calcium absorption and balance

• Supports blood sugar balance, and metabolism

• Helps increase musculoskeletal strength

• Supports positive mood

Sources of Vitamin D

1. Dietary Sources

Vitamin D is naturally only present in a handful of foods, which is likely why it is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies. Western diets are particularly low in sources of vitamin D. For this reason, some packaged foods and beverages are fortified with the synthetic version, however, these tend to provide far less of the vitamin than whole food sources.

These foods are notable dietary sources:

• Fish including salmon, sardines and mackerel

• Liver

• Pasture-raised eggs, concentrated in the yolk

• Certain mushrooms (shiitake)

2. Supplementary

While spending 10-20 minutes in the sun (without sunscreen) is said to be an optimal way to get your daily dose of vitamin D, there are many reasons why this may not be possible. Concerns over the impact of prolonged sun exposure on skin health over time also need to be considered. In addition to limitations from sunlight exposure, as outlined above, getting an adequate intake of vitamin D from diet alone may also prove difficult, which is why supplementation is beneficial and highly recommended for overall health.

Your Vitamin D Solutions

Research suggests that supplemental vitamin D offers a variety of health benefits from improved immune health to improved mood. It's important to distinguish between various types, and know what formulation is best for you. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that includes three compounds: vitamins D1, D2, and D3. The forms of D2 and D3 are most important for humans. While vitamin D2 is most often found in fortified foods, D3 is produced naturally by our bodies.

Here are several effective Vitamin D solutions:

Vitamin D3: High Potency Liquid: A high-potency, liquid vitamin D formula requiring just a couple of drops per day to reach your ideal dosage. This product is ideally used along with a Daily Activated Multi-Vitamin or Daily Nutritional Support shake, which both include vitamin D3 synergistic partners such as magnesium, calcium, and vitamin K.

The D3 formulation offers additional benefits:

• Concentrated and highly bioavailable

• Convenient, pleasant tasting and easily mixed

• Absorption is enhanced when combined with healthy fats

Since many children routinely test outside the optimal range for healthy levels of vitamin D, supplementing their diets can be a good idea with a specially formulated Kid's Vitamin D3 Liquid for children under 50 lbs that offers all the benefits. If you have specific dietary requirements there are also Vegan Vitamin D3 (Capsules) formulated from a sustainable, high-quality plant source as a suitable option.

Since vitamin D is a critical building block for foundational immune health, if you don't consume enough each day or spend adequate time in the sun, it is imperative that you improve levels through supplementation. (Blog source)

Understanding the Phases of Liver Detoxification

The liver is one of the most important — yet often overlooked — organs in your body. As your body's primary detoxification organ, it helps keep your body healthy and functioning as it should.

There are two key phases of liver detoxification, each of which requires specific nutrients in order to work effectively. Keep reading to learn more about what your liver does and what you can do to help support it.

What Does Your Liver Do?

Your liver is one of your hardest-working organs. It performs over 500 vital functions that are essential for life and good health. One of its main roles is to filter your blood and break down toxins it is exposed to, byproducts and other harmful substances, such as pollutants, medications, drugs, alcohol and caffeine. This helps detoxify your body and support healthy levels of inflammation to keep your body in a balanced state.

There are two key phases involved in the detoxification process by the liver:

• Phase one involves a number of enzymes that help break down harmful fat-soluble toxins and other products that get stored in your fat cells and send the raw materials to phase two

  • This phase requires the help of key nutrients, herbs and powerful antioxidants. This includes vitamin E, C, B3, B6, B12 and folate, as well as glutathione and milk thistle.

• Phase two mobilizes and transforms the byproducts of phase one into new, water-soluble waste products in a process called conjugation. This waste can then safely be removed from your body via urine, stool, sweat and breath.

  • This phase also requires help from key nutrients such as the most powerful antioxidant glutathione, sulfur based compounds and amino acids, as well as minerals, including zinc and selenium.

In addition to detoxification, some other essential functions of the liver include:

• Producing bile to help digest and absorb fats and carry waste away from the liver

• Producing certain proteins for the blood and proteins that transport fat through the body

• A storage site for vitamins and minerals

• Helps support a strong immune system

• Helping regulate blood clotting

• Helps to balance blood sugar levels by converting stored liver glucose (glycogen) back into glucose for energy when needed

How To Naturally Support the Phases of Liver Detoxification

There are many things that can get in the way of your liver's ability to do its job correctly, such as overexposure to toxins from a poor diet or from the environment. This can lead to many health issues and more serious conditions over time. You can take proactive steps in your daily life to naturally support your liver's ability to detox. Here are some tips to get started:

• Eat cruciferous vegetables. These vegetables provide sulfur-rich compounds that are essential to produce glutathione, the master antioxidant that supports detoxification. Try to incorporate a few servings of cruciferous vegetables at every meal that include broccoli, cabbage, bok choy, cauliflower and brussels sprouts.

• Focus on fiber. Fiber is an indigestible type of carbohydrate that has various health benefits. Fiber supports the antioxidant and enzyme activity required for liver detoxification. It also helps bulk up your stool and promote regular passage of bowel movements, which removes toxins from the body. All plant foods are good sources of dietary fiber, including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts and seeds.

• Stay hydrated. Drinking more water helps cleanse and detoxify the liver. This is because sufficient hydration is required to promote blood circulation and dissolve nutrients. Staying hydrated also helps produce urine, which is another key way the body rids itself of toxins. It is important that you use a water filter or drink mineral water as tap water contains many chemicals and other harmful substances that add to your toxic load.

• Move your Body. Daily movement and incorporating formal physical activity is also key for a healthy liver and body. Exercise can facilitate weight loss or support maintaining a healthy body weight by increasing the breakdown of fatty acids and reducing toxins stored in fat cells. Exercise helps increase the breakdown of Doing physical activity can increase sweat production, promote circulation and increase breathing - all detoxification routes that expel toxins. Like fiber, exercise can also help keep your bowel movements regular, supporting the elimination of toxins via the stool.

• Consider using supportive supplements. Milk thistle and turmeric are two herbs with anti-inflammatory and powerful antioxidant properties they can support the liver and more effective detoxification. Completing a functional medicine liver detox seasonally is also a great way to restore any nutrient deficiencies and effectively remove excess toxicities that accumulate in the body and increase the toxic load on the liver.

• Incorporate self-care activities into your wellness routine.This can include daily dry brushing, coffee enemas and massage. These actions can help by improving circulation, promoting lymph flow and drainage and promoting more efficient elimination of toxins overall.

Your liver is your body's essential built-in detoxification organ. Completing a Functional Medicine detox provides all the nutrients and herbs your body needs to support and upregulate both phases of liver detoxification as well as promote the effective and safe elimination of stored toxins. It is a science-backed powerful weight loss, wellness and anti-aging solution that can rebalance the body at a deeper level by restoring nutrient deficiencies and removing accumulated toxicities. (Blog source)

Want to learn more? Book a complimentary consultation now!

Vitamin C and Immune Health

When you're starting to feel "under the weather" what is the first step you take?

Many people reach for vitamin C, because it's an essential nutrient and antioxidant that supports many important processes in your body. But of course, right now, it's even more important for its many immune defense benefits!

In fact, it's even been making headlines because high doses of the vitamin are currently being studied in relation to respiratory health support. That's why it comes as no surprise that it's flying off the shelves lately.

Read on to learn more about the many benefits of vitamin C including its role in immune health, plus information on Alkalizing Vitamin C Capsules.

Vitamin C and Immune Health

Vitamin C is a critical building block for optimizing your immune health as it supports multiple functions of the immune system.

For starters, it contributes to immune defense by promoting the growth and function of immune cells called neutrophils, phagocytes and lymphocytes. These immune cells are responsible for attacking harmful substances that enter your body. Vitamin C also serves as a potent antioxidant that can help to balance inflammation, which in turn supports immune function.

Additionally, vitamin C is known for its role in healthy skin and healthy movement. It promotes collagen formation that helps to maintain skin elasticity and hydration and is central to the structural integrity of ligaments, tendons and joints. What's more, by boosting collagen production, vitamin C helps the skin to serve as a functional barrier to keep foreign substances from entering your body.

Research has also shown the protective role it plays in promoting natural healing. Overall, vitamin C is an essential nutrient that helps keep your immune system functioning optimally in a multitude of amazing ways!

Sources of Vitamin C

1. Dietary

Colorful produce is often the best natural source of vitamin C. Consuming several servings and a variety of fresh fruits and veggies daily can provide your body with its vitamin C needs. While a true deficiency in vitamin C is rare, evidence suggests that many people may have low levels, especially those under high amounts of stress and those with a low intake of fresh produce.

Furthermore, humans lack the enzyme required to synthesize vitamin C from glucose and must obtain the vitamin through diet or supplementation. This is why some packaged foods, such as cereals, are fortified with vitamin C. However since vitamin C is water-soluble, the content in packaged foods may be reduced by prolonged storage and by heating during processing — making fresh fruits and vegetables the best source, especially when consumed raw.

Foods with notable sources of vitamin C include:

Vegetables: peppers, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and tomatoes

Fruits: oranges, grapefruits, kiwis, and strawberries

2. Supplementary

Vitamin C supplementation has been studied for more than six decades for its crucial role in immune function. Adequate intake and retention of vitamin C are necessary to maintain healthy levels in the body and function optimally. Current lifestyle factors, including persistent stress and exposure to smoke, pollution, radiation and heavy metals, can raise the requirement for vitamin C even further.

Your Vitamin C Solutions

Since vitamin C deficiency impacts immune health, and extra vitamin C helps boost it, supplementation may be beneficial, or even necessary depending on your lifestyle, for optimal immune function.

While there are many types of vitamin C available, the formulation is important to ensure that your body is able to absorb it and use it efficiently.

There are some options to consider:

Full Spectrum Vitamin C- contains various bioflavonoids including amla and acerola berry (plant-based compounds that enhance the action of vitamin C) formulated to mirror the way vitamin C is found in nature and perfect for daily use

Alkalizing Vitamin C Powder- balanced with calcium, magnesium and potassium to gently deliver a high concentration of vitamin C while at the same time reducing the potential of gastrointestinal upset. This is a great immune booster especially during times of increased vulnerability and also comes in a convenient capsule form.

Your Wellness Begins With a Focus on You

Many people learned the basics of physiology, exercise and nutrition years ago. But, you may have missed more recent scientific studies while navigating your busy life. You can evaluate your own health regularly with labs to identify where your bodily systems are functioning well and where they may benefit from some additional support.

Who has the time to stay current on the latest research? And how can you translate labs into actionable plans without it? Private Online Health Coaching provides the opportunity to help you understand your health better and achieve your own wellness goals in one of three ways:

Book a Complimentary Consultation if you want to explore a specific aspect of your health and identify which labs are appropriate. We will work with you to understand your current health, physiology and lifestyle, and help you to build a plan that is achievable. (Blog source)