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Holistic Health Bites

Author: Andrea Nicholson, BCHN®

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From crime scene investigator to insulin investigator, I bring my investigative skills to identify and solve insulin resistance, pre-diabetes and diabetes conditions that contribute to low energy, stubborn weight, and hypertension, naturally

Be sure to subscribe so you'll always know when new episodes are released. Looking for some personalized guidance, insights into your body, and to have confidence in all of the choices you're making with your health? 

Learn more about how you and I can work together to address your unique health challenges by scheduling a free call here: 

https://healthylifewithandrea.com/free-call

123 Episodes
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Send us a Text Message.The supplement industry is a vast, nearly $200 billion global market that varies widely in quality, benefit, and risks. While supplements can significantly aid in achieving health goals such as improving fitness, rebalancing nutrient deficiencies, and eliminating harmful microbes, they are not a cure-all solution. It's crucial to use them strategically and aim to reduce dependence on them over time.Choosing the right supplements is essential, as low-quality products can...
When Keto Doesn't Work

When Keto Doesn't Work

2024-08-1910:32

Send us a Text Message.The ketogenic diet is renowned for its health benefits but is often misunderstood and misapplied, leading to skepticism and claims that it doesn’t work. When correctly implemented, keto is a low carbohydrate, moderate protein, and higher fat diet tailored to individual needs. However, it does not include “keto” snacks and packaged foods but focuses on quality proteins, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables to achieve metabolic health benefits.Challenges in realizing ...
Send us a Text Message.New research suggests that imbalances in the gut microbiome could be contributing to obesity. A comprehensive meta-analysis of 15 studies examining fecal samples from 3,329 people found significant differences in microbial species and metabolic pathways between obese and non-obese individuals. These alterations, including a reduction in short-chain fatty acid-producing microbes and a shift in the firmicutes-to-bacteroidetes ratio, can disrupt metabolism, fat production,...
Send us a Text Message.Today I'm breaking down a newly published randomized clinical control trial looking at an intermittent fasting protocol compared to two different common diabetes medications and the effect on hemoglobin A1c and various other metabolic markers. *This is NOT medical advice. Always consult with your health care team before implementing nutrition or lifestyle practices. Study referenced:https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2820237Did you ...
Send us a Text Message.This is another flashback week, sharing some of the most popular episodes from the first 2 years of this show. This was by far the most popular interview episode featuring multi-best selling author Gin Stephens talking all about intermittent fasting and her latest book. Have a topic request? Email me: andrea@healthylifewithandrea.comDid you know my practice is entirely virtual? You don't have to live near me to get help with fatigue, stubborn wei...
Send us a Text Message.The podcast is officially 2 years old TODAY! We've covered a lot of topics on this show. In honor of the anniversary, I'm bringing back some of the most popular episodes you may have missed. Show notes: In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of prediabetes, exploring its signs, causes, and the underlying mechanisms of blood sugar and insulin. Prediabetes, a condition of insulin resistance, often goes unnoticed for years before blood sugar leve...
11 Benefits to Fasting

11 Benefits to Fasting

2024-07-1513:57

Send us a Text Message.This episode of the Holistic Health Bites Podcast explores the multitude of benefits associated with fasting. One of the standout advantages is insulin regulation; fasting significantly reduces blood insulin levels by allowing the body a break from constant digestion. This rest period also aids in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, promoting better overall health and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.Fasting also contributes to improved heart health by norm...
Send us a Text Message.Fatty liver is increasingly common due to metabolic changes, now termed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). It involves triglyceride accumulation in liver cells, potentially leading to severe liver diseases if untreated. The liver's lipid production, influenced by insulin and heightened by carbs, leads to excess fat when insulin resistance causes fat cells to release fatty acids back to the liver. Promisingly, fatty liver can be rever...
Send us a Text Message.On this episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast, I am joined by Dr Spencer Zimmerman discussing how brain health and metabolic health are intimately connected. He emphasized the importance of understanding and addressing the underlying causes of health issues, rather than just treating symptoms, with a focus on metabolic health, brain health, and vascular health. He advocated for a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to healthcare, debunking the idea that a s...
Send us a Text Message.On this episode of the Holistic Health Bites podcast, Dr. Tricia Pingel and I discussed the impact of stress on health, the importance of a holistic approach to health, and the significance of mindfulness and self-care in achieving long-term health goals. Dr Pingel also highlighted the negative health impacts of elevated cortisol levels and the interconnectedness of various bodily systems. Lastly, she emphasized the need to address the root causes of health problems and...
Send us a Text Message.Divya Gupta and I discussed the interconnectedness of various health conditions, with a focus on the thyroid gland, gallbladder, and autoimmune issues like Hashimoto's thyroiditis. We also touched on the importance of thorough lab testing, a wholesome diet, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep for maintaining optimal health, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to healthcare, addressing the root causes of health issues, and seeking guidance f...
Send us a Text Message.Evaluating overall metabolic health involves examining several key markers through comprehensive blood panels. Prior to testing, ensure the blood draw is done in a fasted state (12-14 hours), stay well-hydrated, avoid strenuous exercise for a day or two before, and consult about any medications or supplements that may need to be skipped. Also, try to avoid getting your blood drawn on particularly stressful days or when you are feeling unwell.Combining these results with...
Send us a Text Message.Carol shared her experience supporting a friend through breast cancer, launching her focus on integrative support. She outlined the multi-step diagnostic process and initial treatment options involving biopsies, oncology meetings, potential neoadjuvant chemotherapy, surgery choices and chemotherapy/radiation. Carol detailed the complex diagnostic journey from discovery to pathology reports to oncology meetings to potential neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgery, emp...
Send us a Text Message.Joel Warsh, a holistic pediatrician, discussed the importance of integrating natural remedies with traditional medicine. He emphasized the need for preventative measures to combat the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. Joel also stressed the significance of conscious decisions for family health, including avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals. Joel also discussed the importance of mental health, particularly among children, and the need for parents to hel...
Chronic Fatigue

Chronic Fatigue

2024-05-2035:50

Send us a Text Message.On this episode, Dr Evan discussed the challenges of chronic fatigue and long Covid, with Evan emphasizing the importance of addressing underlying causes and adopting a holistic approach to improve overall health. He also explored daily habits that contribute to a toxic load, the dangers of exposure to chemicals, and the need for a mindset shift towards making small, gradual changes towards a healthier lifestyle. Lastly, he discussed the potential for environmental haza...
Send us a Text Message.On this episode, Dr. Ritamarie discussed the importance of the endocrine system, insulin resistance, and sensitivity in maintaining good health. She emphasized the need for a personalized approach to addressing these issues, using tools like glucometers and CGMs to gain real-time feedback on patients' health. She also explored the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques in maintaining good health. Additionally, we discussed the ...
The Two Faces of Keto

The Two Faces of Keto

2024-05-0607:01

Send us a Text Message.In this episode we’re going to break down why this particular style of eating has so much controversy. People seem to either LOVE or HATE the keto diet, based on a variety of reasons. The ketogenic diet has been around for over 100 years...so it's not just a recent weight loss craze. In this episode I also mentioned that I'm doing a personal Metabolic Reset Challenge and I've invited everyone to join me! If you want to join or have questions, sen...
Send us a Text Message.Rachel detailed her struggles with numerous health issues from a young age, leading her on a path to functional medicine. She overcame challenges by addressing root causes through diet and lifestyle changes.Rachel explained how chronic stress keeps the body in a constant "fear" state, impacting cells and health over time. Mental, emotional and environmental stressors all contribute to dysregulation of the HPA axis and stress response.Rachel recommended starting each day...
Send us a Text Message.Sachin Patel is a functional medicine practitioner and breathwork expert. He got into this field after realizing conventional doctors had no answers for chronic illness patients. Breathwork became his passion for integrating simplicity and sophistication in health. In this episode, Sachin explained the health consequences of mouth breathing, including poor sleep, inflammation, and hormonal imbalance. Nasal breathing optimizes air through humidification, warming, a...
Send us a Text Message.Dr. Christina Bjorndal shares her journey into naturopathic medicine after a suicide attempt left her hospitalized, revealing how conventional medications failed to fully treat her mental health issues. She emphasizes treating patients holistically by addressing their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being, not just symptoms, explaining the four pillars' interconnected roles in health.Simple changes like reducing sugar, coffee and carbonation intake ...
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