Are you feeling confused or overwhelmed by the health information you find online?
Many people offer advice, each with their own perspective, which can be overwhelming.
I’ve spent over 30 years enjoying the growth of the internet and the availability of health information.
However, I see many clients who are confused by the abundance of advice.
They often say, “I read this online,” or “I heard this online. Is that right?” In my clinic, I help them understand health concepts and assess whether the information they’ve encountered is accurate for them. Often, it isn’t.
Today, I want to debunk some common health myths and offer tips on how to find reliable health information online.
One common myth: Low-fat diets for weight loss.
Clients often tell me, “I’m on a low-fat diet to lose weight. I’ve cut all the fat out.” But not all fats are bad. Including “good fats” in your diet is crucial for brain function, reducing inflammation, and maintaining healthy skin. Cutting out all fat is a persistent misconception.
Another myth: To lose weight, you must follow a restrictive diet, count calories, or drastically cut calorie intake while exercising more.
This may work for some, but not for everyone. For example, I had a client who was following his personal trainer’s advice and working out daily, yet he wasn’t losing weight. When I investigated his genetic profile, I found that calorie restriction caused inflammation for him. His body needed a different eating pattern. This shows that one diet doesn’t fit all.
Everyone is unique, and that’s why I love what I do.
As a naturopath and biochemist, I focus on understanding each person’s specific needs rather than following fads. I base my health advice on solid health foundations and enjoy explaining these concepts to empower my clients to take control of their health. Instead of blindly following advice, my clients gain the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health and lifestyle.
A 2020 study by a university in Western Australia found that online symptom-checking was only about a third of the time accurate. This highlights the importance of understanding health fundamentals.
When seeking health information online, here are key points to consider:
● Check Qualifications: What are the credentials or experience of the person providing the information?
● Verify Information: Can the information be corroborated by other qualified professionals? Reliable advice is often validated by multiple sources.
● Scientific or Clinical Evidence: Look for scientific studies or clinical experiences that support the claims. Effective protocols typically show consistent results across different scenarios.
● Be Skeptical of Fads: If something sounds too good to be true, it often is. Be cautious of miracle cures. Health requires an understanding of individual differences, such as genetics.
If a claim suggests a universal cure, scrutinise the underlying information to ensure its accuracy.
In my 30 years as a naturopath and biochemist, I’ve gained extensive experience and tailored health solutions for each client. I aim to cut through misinformation and provide clear, understandable health advice. I enjoy helping clients understand their health so they can take charge of it.
No More Guessing! Join the Energise and Thrive Tribe for a Vibrant Health Journey!
Are you ready to transform your health and thrive with vitality? I’m thrilled to invite you to join the Energise and Thrive Tribe—a warm and empowering community where, each month, you’ll receive fresh, insightful health tips and guidance. Here, we explore practical, science-backed health concepts to help you make informed and confident decisions about your well-being.
In the Energise and Thrive Tribe, we explore a variety of topics, These topics, and more, are grounded in clinical experience and scientific evidence, including:
● Liver Love: Discover how to nurture a happy, healthy liver.
● Gut Harmony: Learn secrets to balance your gut microbiome for vibrant health.
● Delightful Dining: Enjoy easy, delicious meal ideas that make healthy eating a breeze.
● Mindset Magic: Breakthrough mental barriers with strategies to supercharge your mindset.
● Metabolism Boosters: Uncover techniques to rev up your metabolism and feel energised.
● Stress Soothers: Master effective tools to manage stress and reclaim your calm.
And that’s just the beginning! Each topic is infused with clinical experience, scientific evidence, and practical tips designed to fit seamlessly into your life.
Contact me now for more details and take the first step towards a revitalised you!
I can’t wait to welcome you to the tribe!
Ready to kick start Gut Health? Book a Call!
This is how gut microbes can influence weight!
Probiotics can help you gain weight or lose weight by interacting with our genetics, food and metabolism.
And yes, I did say lose or gain weight……..
Firstly, let me explain that the trillions of microbes in the gut need to be varied, meaning that there should be a large variety of species. There are many different species (or breeds) of microbes, and they all have their place in aiding health — the more variety and balance, the better health results.
Back to the weight loss or weight gain issue….
Do you eat yogurt and berries for breakfast? Thinking that it’s helping you lose weight?
Well, Lactobacillus acidophilus (like the species found in yoghurt) has been connected to weight gain.
I am not saying throw your yoghurt and berries in the bin. Instead, I am suggesting looking at the overall picture. If Lactobacillus acidophilus is the predominant micro-organism of the gut, then weight gain can result.
It is about the variety of species of gut microbes. Imagine if we only have trained german shepherd guard dogs in the world. It may be a safe world, but I am sure that other breeds may be more suitable as a family pet.
While Lactobacillus acidophilus is associated with weight gain, other Lactobacillus species correlate with weight loss.
Species like Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus gasseri, and Bifidobacteria animalis have been found to support weight loss.
Want to lose weight?
Look at your gut flora to support your goal.
Tests can be performed to identify the predominant species of the gut, and specific species can be utilised to support weight changes.
Want more information about your gut health?
Or want to look at all the factors contributing to weight gain, I’d love to be able to help.
