In the age of easy access to information, the internet has become the go-to for answers about health. The internet has a wealth of health information, and I’ve seen it change over my three-decade career.
It’s fantastic to see people having more control over their health now. However, as a naturopath, I understand the risks that come with this easy access to information. There’s a downside to relying solely on the internet for health advice.
Searching for your symptoms online gives you numerous scenarios, recommendations, and even possible diagnoses. This flood of information can leave you feeling bewildered, overwhelmed, or more confused than before.
To each their own…
While you might feel empowered to try a remedy or solution, the results from a search engine are broad and not tailored to your unique situation.
They don’t consider your lifestyle, diet, nutritional requirements, physical activity, mental and emotional well-being, or your individual genetics.
Each person has their own distinct genetic makeup, influencing how they respond to various factors.
Internet searches don’t account for these differences.
What works for one person might not be suitable for you because your specific genetics or lifestyle is not considered. Recommendations found online might be someone else’s experience, but they might not fit your situation.
Your own journey…
Consider typing your symptoms into a search bar as being similar to using an old-school road map—like those used before Google Maps existed. Picture having a piece of paper with roads mapped out in your area. However, this map doesn’t indicate your destination or the best route to get there.
You might choose some roads from this map to start your journey, but some could lead to dead ends or require turning back. Some paths might be rough, while others could steer you in the wrong direction or take longer routes.
Can you see how an internet search might feel like having a map without a clear destination? It’s like not knowing exactly where you want to go in terms of your health.
Without a precise path in mind, you might end up misled or given incorrect information.
Let me share an example: A client of mine had been feeling unwell for a few months and turned to the internet for answers on how to manage her health. As I mentioned earlier, I’m a strong advocate for individuals taking charge of their health, but it’s crucial to have access to accurate information.
So, this client of mine was browsing through loads of internet information. She had gone through numerous articles and suggestions, reaching a point of not knowing how to start. When she came to me, she felt overwhelmed, frustrated, and quite alone in the process. We collaborated, conducting scans, and testing, and investigated her lifestyle, diet, emotions, physical health, and mental well-being.
Through this, I focused on educating her and providing tailored information based on her unique circumstances. The goal was to empower her to take control of her own health.
From my over 30 years of experience in this field, I’ve learned that the human body possesses an incredible ability to heal itself.
At times, our bodies just need the right push or the appropriate nutrients. Our bodies are a marvellous combination of intricate interactions—chemical reactions, hormones, and nerve impulses. What works for one person might not be the solution for you. This is where I find naturopathy to shine.
Tailored Naturopathic Journeys…
As a naturopath and biochemist, my approach involves keenly listening to my clients’ stories and understanding their unique condition—genetically, emotionally, physically, mentally, their diet, and lifestyle. I craft an individualised health plan tailored to their specific needs.
My aim is to empower them to take control of your health and explore pathways that consider all aspects of your well-being.
While the internet offers a great starting point with general information, remember, it lacks the human touch and expertise of a health professional. It’s essential to seek guidance from someone experienced in health and well-being, who comprehends the science of health and acknowledges the body’s natural healing abilities.
So, the next time you search for symptoms online, take a moment to pause and recognise your uniqueness. Understand that the recommendations might be general and not specifically meant for you.
Educate yourself, but approach it with a level of caution. Seek pathways that create a personalised solution, often guided by experienced health professionals, like me.
Let’s start on this journey together. Identifying an approach tailored specifically to you—your lifestyle, body, genetics, and mental, emotional, and physical aspects.
You are exceptional, you are one-of-a-kind, and this journey is all about you and your unique path to health.
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.
