Hydration Strategies for Staying Healthy While Moving

Hydration Strategies for Staying Healthy While Moving

Moving day is always a challenge, requiring a lot of physical and mental energy. The process can be draining when packing boxes, lifting heavy furniture, or navigating a new space. One often overlooked factor in a successful move is staying hydrated. Proper hydration helps you maintain energy levels, keeps your body functioning well, and even improves focus. For those moving to Connecticut, weather changes can add to the stress, whether it’s the humidity in the summer or the cold in the winter. These fluctuations make it even more important to stay properly hydrated. In this guide, we will explore strategies for staying healthy while moving. By following these tips, you’ll have a smoother and healthier move.

Why Hydration is Important for Moving Day Success

During a move, your body works harder than usual, making hydration an important part of your routine. When lifting heavy objects, climbing stairs, or spending hours on your feet, your body loses fluids faster than you realize. This loss of fluids can lead to dehydration, which may cause fatigue, muscle cramps, or dizziness. These symptoms can slow you down or even lead to accidents. Hydration helps maintain proper muscle function, keeps your mind alert, and supports overall energy levels. Moving requires both mental and physical strength, and staying hydrated allows you to perform at your best. Drinking water and other fluids helps your body handle the stress of moving, which makes the entire process easier and safer.

Staying Healthy While Moving: Get Organized

When preparing for your move, it’s helpful to organize hydration supplies ahead of time. It’s easy to forget about drinking water when focused on packing and moving. One way to stay on top of hydration is by setting up a hydration station. Pack plenty of water bottles, electrolyte drinks, and snacks like fruit. Place them in an accessible spot during the move so that you can grab them when needed. Using a cooler or insulated bottle will keep your drinks cold, which is especially refreshing during warmer weather. Connecticut summers can be hot and humid, making cold drinks even more valuable. If professional movers are helping you, make sure they have access to these supplies, too. Staying hydrated will make everyone feel better and more energized throughout the day.

Hydration and Planning Go Hand in Hand

Proper hydration isn’t the only key to a successful moving day—effective planning plays a bigrole, too. Scheduling hydration breaks throughout the day helps prevent exhaustion, but organizing the entire move strategically is equally important. When planning, consider the timing of your move, especially in a place like Connecticut, where the weather can vary. Summer heat may require more hydration, while colder months demand extra care to avoid dehydration. If you’re working with local professionals, like Fairfield County movers, having them on board can make the entire process smoother. Their experience in handling moves efficiently means you’ll have more time to focus on staying hydrated and energized during the day. Combining a solid moving plan with hydration strategies will set you up for success.

Drink More Than Just Water

While water is a great base for hydration, you’ll also want to include drinks that provide electrolytes. When sweating, your body loses essential minerals like sodium and potassium. Replacing these minerals can help prevent muscle cramps and fatigue. Drinks like coconut water, sports drinks, or even homemade electrolyte drinks can be helpful. These beverages contain minerals that replenish what your body loses during a move. Alternating between water and electrolyte-rich drinks can give you a balanced approach to hydration. This combination will help you stay hydrated while keeping your energy levels up. Moving day can be exhausting, so it’s important to fuel your body properly with a mix of water and electrolyte beverages.

Timing Your Hydration

Hydration isn’t just about what you drink but also when you drink. Proper timing helps you stay hydrated without feeling bloated or uncomfortable. Start drinking water the day before your move to prepare your body. On the day of the move, sip small amounts of water regularly rather than drinking large quantities at once. Gulping water can lead to bloating, making it harder to stay active. Instead, set a timer to remind yourself to take a drink every 20-30 minutes. You’ll keep your body balanced throughout the day by spreading out your hydration. After your move, continue drinking water to help your body recover. The combination of physical activity and stress makes it easy to become dehydrated, so proper timing is key to staying hydrated.

Keeping Hydration Cool

Cool beverages can help you feel refreshed and more comfortable during a move, especially in hot weather. Connecticut summers, in particular, can be humid, making it more important to drink cool fluids. You can use insulated bottles, coolers, or ice packs to keep your drinks chilled throughout the day. Cold beverages help you stay hydrated and regulate your body temperature. This can prevent overheating and reduce stress levels, making moving more comfortable. Even in cooler weather, drinking cool water can help maintain energy levels. Whether warm or cold outside, keeping your hydration cool is a simple and effective way to feel better while you move.

Listen to Your Body's Hydration Cues

Your body has several ways of letting you know when it needs hydration. Some of the early signs of dehydration include dry mouth, dizziness, and dark-colored urine. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s time to take a break and drink some water. Ignoring these cues can lead to more serious problems, such as headaches, nausea, and extreme fatigue. It’s better to be proactive and drink water regularly rather than wait until you feel thirsty. Thirst is often a sign that you’re already dehydrated. By paying attention to your body and taking action when you notice the signs, you can avoid the negative effects of dehydration during your move.

Encourage Your Movers or Helpers to Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated during a move isn’t just about taking care of yourself; it’s also about making sure everyone involved in the move stays hydrated. Whether you’re working with professional movers, friends, or family, keeping everyone hydrated helps make the day go more smoothly. Offer water and snacks throughout the day, especially during physically demanding tasks. Setting up a hydration station with easy access to drinks can be a good idea. Providing water-rich snacks like fruit can also keep energy levels up. When everyone stays hydrated, the moving process can be more efficient and pleasant, reducing the risk of fatigue or accidents.

In Conclusion

Hydration keeps your energy levels up, helps your muscles function properly, and reduces the risk of fatigue or dizziness. By following these hydration strategies, you can focus on staying healthy while moving, whether across Connecticut or just down the street. Preparing in advance, listening to your body, and keeping drinks on hand will all contribute to a healthier, more successful moving experience.

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How Omega-3 Contributes to a Longer, Healthier Life

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that are crucial to our overall health. There are three main types: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). EPA and DHA are primarily found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, while ALA is found in plant oils such as flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts. These fatty acids are vital for various bodily functions, including heart health and brain function, and they reduce inflammation. Since our bodies can’t produce Omega-3 alone, getting them from dietary sources or supplements is important to maintain optimal health and well-being. This is how Omega-3 contributes to a longer, healthier life and why you need it.

Heart Health Benefits

Omega-3 fatty acids are renowned for their significant impact on cardiovascular health. They help reduce triglyceride levels, fats found in the blood that can increase the risk of heart disease when elevated. 

Additionally, Omega-3s have been shown to prevent arterial plaque formation, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. These fatty acids support the endothelium, the lining of blood vessels, helping to keep arteries flexible and promoting better blood flow. This reduces the risk of heart disease and supports overall circulatory health. Furthermore, Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that play a role in preventing chronic inflammation, a key factor in the development of cardiovascular diseases. Regular intake of Omega-3 contributes to a longer, healthier life.

Including Omega-3s in your diet is a simple yet effective way to improve heart health and boost your immune system. Whether through fish, plant oils, or supplements, ensuring adequate Omega-3 intake is crucial for maintaining a robust and healthy heart.

Brain and Cognitive Function

Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in brain development and function, making them essential for mental health and cognitive performance. These fats are critical components of cell membranes in the brain, supporting neuron function and promoting efficient communication between brain cells. Omega-3s are particularly important during early brain development in infants and children but also significantly benefit adults.

Integrating nutrition, fitness, and mental well-being is key to optimal cognitive function. Omega-3s can help improve mental health and protect against cognitive decline as we age. Their anti-inflammatory properties support brain health, reducing the risk of conditions such as depression, anxiety, and dementia.

Regularly consuming these fatty acids is associated with better mental clarity and a lower risk of age-related cognitive decline. Key benefits include:

  • Improved memory and learning abilities
  • Reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety
  • Lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
  • Enhanced focus and attention span

Including Omega-3-rich foods or supplements in your diet, along with regular physical activity and mental exercises, can significantly contribute to your overall mental well-being. This holistic approach ensures that your brain stays healthy and functions optimally at all stages of life.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their powerful anti-inflammatory properties, crucial for reducing inflammation throughout the body. These fats decrease the production of inflammatory molecules and substances, such as cytokines and eicosanoids. This mechanism helps manage and alleviate symptoms of chronic diseases like arthritis, where inflammation causes joint pain and stiffness. Omega-3s also benefit individuals with autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and multiple sclerosis, by modulating immune responses and reducing the intensity of autoimmune attacks. Incorporating Omega-3-rich foods or supplements into your diet can significantly improve inflammation-related conditions, promoting better overall health and quality of life. This makes Omega-3s a valuable addition to any anti-inflammatory regimen, contributing to managing and preventing chronic and autoimmune diseases.

Omega-3 and Longevity

Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to increased lifespan and overall longevity. Numerous studies have shown that a higher intake of Omega-3s is associated with reduced mortality, particularly from heart disease and other chronic conditions. These healthy fats help maintain cardiovascular health, support brain function, and reduce inflammation, all contributing to a longer, healthier life.

Research indicates that Omega-3s can lower the risk of fatal heart attacks, strokes, and other life-threatening conditions by improving blood vessel function and reducing blood clot formation. Moreover, the benefits of healthy fats for women are particularly noteworthy, as Omega-3s have been shown to support reproductive health, reduce symptoms of menopause, and decrease the risk of breast cancer.

These essential fats promote longevity and improve quality of life by supporting various bodily functions and protecting against chronic diseases. This makes Omega-3s a crucial component of a balanced, health-conscious diet.

Incorporating Omega-3 into Your Diet

Despite its importance, 99% of Americans don’t get enough Omega-3s. The recommended daily intake varies, but generally, adults should aim for 250-500 mg of combined EPA and DHA. To increase Omega-3 consumption, include fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines in your meals at least twice a week. Plant-based sources like flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts are excellent for those who prefer non-fish options.

Practical tips include adding flaxseed oil to smoothies, sprinkling chia seeds on yogurt, and snacking on walnuts. When choosing supplements, opt for high-quality fish or algae oil, ensuring they contain adequate amounts of EPA and DHA.

Reading labels and choosing fortified foods can also help boost intake. By making these dietary adjustments, you can ensure you’re getting enough Omega-3s to support your overall health and well-being.

Embracing Omega-3 for Enhanced Longevity and Health

Incorporating Omega-3 fatty acids into your diet is essential for a longer, healthier life. These healthy fats support heart health, boost brain function, and reduce inflammation, contributing to overall wellness and longevity. Omega-3s help prevent chronic diseases, enhance cognitive abilities, and improve mental health, making them a crucial part of a balanced diet. Despite their importance, many people don’t get enough Omega-3s, so it’s vital to include sources like fatty fish, plant oils, and supplements in your daily intake. By doing so, you can also see how Omega-3 contributes to a longer, healthier life.

Test Don’t Guess

If you wish to test your levels of Omega 3 please purchase your Omega 3 Index test here.  It’s a simple pin prick of your finger that you can do in the comfort of your own home.  It will help you identify how much you need to supplement to increase your levels.  The test is only $60 and provides you with valuable information.  Want to skip the testing and go right to a professional grade supplement?  This one is my favorite: High Potency Omega 3

As always, if I can be of service to you personally, please don’t hesitate to reach out for a consultation.  

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How Mindful Eating Can Transform Your Relationship with Food

We all know it’s easy to eat without thinking. We often find ourselves munching on snacks while working or scrolling through our phones during meals. This lack of attention can lead to unhealthy eating habits, weight gain, and a troubled relationship with food. Mindful eating is a practice that encourages you to pay full attention to the eating experience, and it can transform your relationship with food in profound ways.

What Is Mindful Eating?

Mindful eating involves paying attention to your food, moment by moment, without judgment. It’s about experiencing the colors, smells, textures, and flavors of your food. It also involves being aware of your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Instead of eating on autopilot, mindful eating encourages you to savor each bite, creating a more enjoyable and fulfilling eating experience.

Benefits of Mindful Eating

Practicing mindful eating can transform your relationship with food in several positive ways.

Enhanced Enjoyment of Food

By paying attention to the sensory experience of eating, you can enhance your enjoyment of food. When you take the time to notice the colors, smells, and textures of your food, you can appreciate it more. This can make meals more satisfying and reduce the desire to overeat.

Improved Digestion

Eating mindfully can also improve your digestion. When you eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly, your body can break down the food more effectively. This can lead to better nutrient absorption and less digestive discomfort.

Better Portion Control

Mindful eating helps you tune into your body’s hunger and fullness signals. This can prevent overeating and help you recognize when you are satisfied. As a result, you may find it easier to manage your weight without feeling deprived.

Reduced Emotional Eating

Many people eat in response to emotions such as stress, boredom, or sadness. Mindful eating encourages you to pay attention to why you are eating. Recognizing emotional triggers allows you to develop healthier ways to cope with your emotions without turning to food.

Healthier Food Choices

When you eat mindfully, you become more aware of how different foods make you feel. This awareness can lead to healthier food choices. You may start to prefer foods that make you feel good and energized and avoid those that leave you feeling sluggish or unwell.

How to Practice Mindful Eating

Starting with mindful eating may seem challenging, but with practice, it can become a natural part of your routine and can transform your relationship with food. Here are some tips to help you get started:

  1. You don’t have to overhaul your eating habits overnight. Start with small changes, such as mindfully eating one meal or snack each day. Gradually, you can incorporate mindful eating into more of your meals.
  2. When you eat, focus solely on your food. Turn off the TV, put away your phone, and sit down at a table. Eating without distractions helps you to pay full attention to the experience.
  3. Eat slowly and savor each bite. Put your fork down between bites and chew your food thoroughly. This not only helps with digestion but also allows you to fully appreciate the flavors and textures of your food.
  4. Before you start eating, take a moment to assess your hunger. Are you really hungry, or are you eating for another reason? As you eat, pay attention to how your body feels. Stop eating when you feel satisfied, not when you are stuffed.
  5. Pay attention to the colors, smells, textures, and flavors of your food. Notice how the food feels in your mouth and the different tastes as you chew. Engaging your senses can enhance your enjoyment of the meal.
  6. After eating, take a moment to reflect on the experience. How did the food make you feel? Were you satisfied, or did you overeat? Reflecting on your experience can help you make adjustments and improve your mindful eating practice.

Overcoming Challenges

Like any new habit, mindful eating can come with challenges. Here are some common obstacles and how to overcome them.

Busy Schedule

Many people struggle with mindful eating due to a busy schedule. To overcome this, try to set aside specific times for meals and snacks. Even if you only have a few minutes, make a conscious effort to eat mindfully during that time.

Mindful Eating During Stressful Times

Mindful eating can be particularly beneficial during stressful times, such as when planning a move. I was recently talking to a client who found herself way off track due to the stress of packing up belongings and the many things on her to-do list.  She is headed off to Europe with her family for an entire year, and there are so many details to handle.  To help her stay focused on self-care during this stressful time, we practiced pausing, chewing food without distraction, slowing down a bit since she found herself rushing and taking the time to drink some water before a meal.   It’s easy to resort to fast food or skip meals altogether during the chaos of moving. However, taking the time to plan balanced meals can make a big difference on your physiology. Preparation is key!  Consider a variety of meals to plan for moving day and the weeks leading up to the big day, so you have nutritious options ready. This can help you maintain your energy levels and stay focused, ensuring that even on a hectic day, you are eating mindfully and healthily which will lead to better sleep quality and resilience.

Emotional Eating

If you find yourself eating in response to emotions, try to identify the underlying cause. Once you recognize your triggers, you can develop healthier coping strategies, such as going for a walk, talking to a friend, or practicing relaxation techniques.

Social Situations

Eating mindfully in social situations can be challenging. In these cases, focus on enjoying the company and the food. Take small bites, chew slowly, and engage in conversation. Remember that it’s okay to indulge occasionally as long as you return to your mindful eating habits.

Long-Term Benefits

The benefits of mindful eating extend beyond just the immediate pleasure of a meal. Over time, this practice can lead to a healthier relationship with food, better digestion, improved nutrition, and a more balanced lifestyle. By transforming your relationship with food through mindful eating, you can develop a deeper appreciation for the nourishment and enjoyment that food provides.

Transform Your Relationship with Food Through Mindful Eating

Mindful eating is a powerful tool that can transform your relationship with food. By paying attention to your eating habits, savoring each bite, and listening to your body, you can enjoy your meals more fully and develop healthier eating patterns. Start small, be patient with yourself, and remember that mindful eating is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the process and enjoy the positive changes it brings to your life.

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Holistic Approaches to Weight Loss: Integrating Nutrition, Fitness, and Mental Wellbeing

Are you trying to lose weight but feel like navigating through a labyrinth of conflicting
advice? Amidst this confusion, holistic approaches to weight loss offer hope, illuminating a
path that intertwines nutrition, fitness, and mental wellbeing into a cohesive strategy. This
approach aims for weight reduction and promotes overall health and wellness.

Understanding the Holistic Perspective

The concept of holistic approaches to weight loss transcends the traditional focus on diet
and exercise. It encompasses a comprehensive view of an individual’s lifestyle, including
physical, emotional, and mental health. This method appreciates the complexity of weight
loss, acknowledging that factors like stress, sleep, and emotional wellbeing play crucial roles
in the journey towards a healthier self.

This perspective also involves an understanding that lasting weight loss is not just about
shedding pounds but also about nurturing a harmonious relationship with one’s body and
environment. It encourages us to look beyond the scale and recognize the importance of
self-care, relaxation, and a balanced lifestyle, making weight loss a more enjoyable and
sustainable journey.

Nutrition: Fueling Your Body Mindfully

When it comes to nutrition, the holistic approach advocates for more than just calorie
counting
. It’s about nurturing your body with foods that are as close to their natural state as
possible. This means favoring whole foods over processed items, understanding the
importance of macronutrients, and appreciating the role of micronutrients in bodily
functions. Embracing this approach means being mindful of what we eat and how and why
we eat. It involves paying attention to hunger cues, eating without distraction, and
understanding our emotional connections with food.

Whole Foods over Processed Foods

A diet rich in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy
fats can lead to more effective weight loss. Whole foods are packed with essential nutrients
our bodies need to function optimally. They are also more filling, which can help reduce the
tendency to overeat. This shift from processed to whole foods is not just about what we
remove from our diets but also about what we add.

Balancing Macronutrients

Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats – the three macronutrients – are pivotal in a balanced
diet. A holistic approach to weight loss involves understanding how to balance these
macronutrients to fuel your body correctly. This balance differs for everyone, depending on
individual lifestyle and fitness goals. A well-balanced diet considers the quality of these
macronutrients, emphasizing unrefined and minimally processed sources. For example,
opting for whole grains over refined grains, quality proteins such as fish, poultry, legumes,
and healthy fats from sources like avocados and nuts.

The Role of Micronutrients

Vitamins and minerals, though required in smaller quantities, are vital for energy
production, immune function, bone health, and more. A diet lacking in essential
micronutrients can lead to deficiencies, affecting overall health and hindering weight loss
efforts. Micronutrients also play a significant role in maintaining metabolic rate, enhancing
muscle function, and improving neurological health.

Fitness: More Than Just Exercise

Fitness in a holistic weight loss plan is about building a stronger, more resilient body and
mind. It involves choosing activities that you enjoy, which makes it more likely you’ll stick to
them in the long term. In this context, fitness is also about balancing cardio and strength
training, exertion and recovery, and physical and mental challenges. It’s about embracing
movement as a celebration of what your body can do rather than a punishment for what
you ate, nurturing a healthier, more positive relationship with your body and exercise.

Variety Is Key

One of the biggest myths about weight loss is that you need to stick to a lot of cardio
workouts to shed the weight. In fact, combining cardiovascular, strength, flexibility, and
balance exercises can yield the best results. This variety not only helps in overall body
conditioning but also keeps the workout regimen interesting and engaging. Different forms
of exercise target different aspects of fitness and health. For instance, while cardiovascular
exercises improve heart health and endurance, strength training builds muscle mass, which
in turn enhances metabolism. Flexibility and balance exercises like yoga or Pilates improve posture, reduce the risk of injury, and promote mental relaxation. A varied fitness routine
ensures comprehensive health benefits and keeps motivation high.

Listening to Your Body

Understanding and respecting your body’s limits is imperative. Pushing too hard can lead to
injuries, while not pushing enough might slow down progress. The goal is to find a middle
ground where you are challenging yourself but not at the expense of your wellbeing.
Listening to your body means acknowledging when it needs rest, when it is ready to push
the limits, and when it is simply enjoying the movement. This kind of awareness can
significantly enhance the effectiveness of your fitness regime and prevent burnout.
Remember, consistency over intensity often leads to more sustainable and enjoyable
progress in your fitness journey.

Mental Wellbeing: The Cornerstone of Sustainable Weight Loss

Often underestimated, mental wellbeing is a cornerstone of holistic approaches to weight
loss. A healthy mindset can significantly impact your ability to lose weight and maintain
those losses. This encompasses not just the absence of mental illness but the presence of
positive attributes like optimism, resilience, and emotional regulation. Cultivating mental
wellbeing involves practices like setting realistic goals, practicing self-compassion, and
developing a positive body image. By nurturing our mental health, we create a strong
foundation that supports all aspects of our weight loss journey, making the process more
balanced and fulfilling.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can lead to overeating and weight gain. Incorporating stress-reduction
techniques
 such as meditation, yoga, or even simple breathing exercises can help mitigate
the adverse effects of stress on your weight loss. Regular practice of these techniques can
enhance mindfulness, which in turn helps in making more conscious food choices and
recognizing stress-related eating patterns. Engaging in activities you love, such as reading,
gardening, or spending time in nature, can also be effective stress busters.

Sleep and Weight Loss

Lack of sleep can affect your metabolism and your appetite-regulating hormones, leading to
increased hunger and cravings. Prioritizing good sleep hygiene practices like maintaining a
regular sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and limiting screen time before bed
can greatly enhance sleep quality. Good sleep helps in weight management and improves
mood and cognitive function, making it a key element of overall wellbeing.

Emotional Eating

Understanding the emotional triggers that lead to overeating can be a game-changer.
Seeking the support of a therapist or a support group can be beneficial in addressing
emotional eating patterns. Developing strategies to deal with emotions without using food
as a coping mechanism is super important. This might involve techniques like journaling,
mindfulness practices, or simply developing a support system of friends and family.
Recognizing that food is not just about sustenance but also about emotional connection and
comfort can help create a healthier relationship with eating.

Integrating Nutrition, Fitness, and Mental Wellbeing

This integration is about creating a balance that works for your body and lifestyle.Remember the following:

  • Every individual is unique, and so should be their weight loss plan. Personalizing your approach based on your dietary preferences, lifestyle, fitness level, and emotional needs is crucial for success.
  • Holistic weight loss is about making sustainable changes rather than seeking quick fixes. It’s about discovering what works best for your body and mind in the long term.
  • Stay informed and open to adapting your approach as you progress. What works at the beginning of your journey might need adjustment as you move forward.

Embrace Holistic Approaches to Weight Loss

Holistic approaches to weight loss offer a comprehensive way to lose weight and build a
healthier, happier life. For best results, aim toward your health goals by integrating mindful
nutrition, enjoyable fitness routines, and a focus on mental wellbeing.

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How to Boost Your Immune System by Tackling Stress on All Fronts

Have you ever had a stressful week, the kind where you’re pulling your hair out and barely sleeping, and then catch a cold within days? There’s a reason why stressed people get sick more often. Stress lowers your body’s defenses so that you’re vulnerable to bacteria and viruses.

The mind and body are so interwoven. Emotional stress can cause physical and biochemical stress within the body. But, many don’t know that the opposite is true as well. Research is showing that biochemical and physical stress can create more emotional stress. These three types of stress can feed into each other, leading to a vicious cycle. Once you’re caught in this cycle, it can be so difficult to break out of it.

Between cold and flu season, this is an important time to boost your immune system. In this busy time of year, practicing self-care is necessary. If you’re experiencing uncontrolled stress, you need to treat it holistically. I’m here to support you through this process and give my best tips for tackling stress on all fronts.

“It is never really the case that stress makes you sick, or even increases your risk of being sick. Stress increases your risk of getting diseases that make you sick, or if you have such a disease, stress increases the risk of your defenses being overwhelmed by the disease.” – Dr. Robert Sapolsky

How does stress affect the immune system? 

Stress has its roots in our evolution as a species. Our ability to respond to threats is a survival response. Think about it – if you’re being chased by a tiger, you have an emotional response. But you also immediately have a physical and biochemical response as well. This is the activation of your sympathetic nervous system, and is often called your fight-or-flight response. Your body pumps more blood to your muscles and heart so that you’re physically prepared to “face the tiger”. 

These days, most of us aren’t facing tigers. Most of our threats are non-physical, yet we’re still having a physical response. The threats of the modern world tend to be more chronic, such as a stressful work environment or family situation. Many people are spending most of their entire lives in a constant survival response, and they may not even know it because it’s been their norm for so long.

How does emotional stress lead to physical and biochemical changes?

When you experience a stressful event, you’re most likely aware of your emotional response. You might become anxious or upset. There are also physical changes that occur because of sympathetic activation. Your nervous system is closely linked to your endocrine and immune systems.1  When you experience stress, you disrupt all three of these systems.2 This happens through a few different pathways:

  1. Sympathetic nerve fibers come from the brain into the lymphoid tissues. When your stress response turns on, these nerve fibers can release substances that bind to white blood cell receptors.2
  2. Stress can cause the production of proinflammatory cytokines, leading to a less efficient immune system.1
  3. Stress disrupts the delicate balance of hormones within your body, which can worsen your immune function.2
  4. Many people respond to stress by eating unhealthy foods, drinking alcohol, and not sleeping. This can cause more inflammation and damage to the immune system.3

Psychological, physical and biochemical stress can interplay and feed into each other. This can cause a downward spiral of stress, inflammation, and weakened immune response.

As we’ve discussed, stress causes inflammation in the body. If this inflammation becomes chronic, it can actually cause changes to your brain. Inflammation can alter your fear regulation and emotional response.4 As a result, you won’t be able to cope with stress as well, leading to more stress. This is why it’s so necessary to take a holistic approach to bring down stress levels.

How do I tackle stress?

Because there can be so many factors at play, you must tackle stress on all fronts – physical, emotional/mental, and biochemical. Efforts should target reducing inflammation, balancing the nervous system, and getting your immune system back online. Here are my best recommendations for strategies and methods to reduce the impact of stress…

How to Reduce Physical Stress

Your physical body is like a luxury vehicle that needs regular maintenance. As you age, you’ll naturally have some wear and tear. Aging alone may cause increased inflammation.5 Fortunately, there are many treatments that can help.

  • Regular physical activity – Exercise can reduce fat mass, which brings down inflammation in the tissues.5 
  • Massage therapy – Massage can help reduce muscle damage and inflammation after exercise.6 It’s also a great way to relax and balance your nervous system.
  • Chiropractic care – If you think about it, a large part of your nervous system lives in your spinal column. Evidence shows that chiropractic care helps with nervous system regulation.7
  • Epsom salt baths – Magnesium is a mineral that plays a vital role in the health of your brain and nervous system. Taking Epsom salt baths allows for magnesium sulfate to enter your body through the skin.8
  • Cryotherapy – Cryotherapy, also known as cold therapy, involves full-body cold exposure. Research supports that it can reduce muscle damage and tissue inflammation.9
  • Infrared sauna – A recent study of over 2000 men showed that sauna therapy reduced levels of C-reactive protein (an inflammatory marker in the body).10 Infrared saunas allow you to achieve these results at lower temperatures than regular saunas.
  • IV drip therapy – IV therapy can give you a boost of minerals and nutrients you may need to detoxify and reduce inflammation.
  • Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) – HBOT helps your immune system in a few different ways. It sends more oxygen into the tissues and blocks toxins in certain bacteria. It also boosts the functioning of your white blood cells.11

If you’re interested in trying any of these treatments, check out Restore Hyper Wellness. Restore offers cryotherapy, IV drip therapy, HBOT, and more. My clients receive 15% off of your first treatment.

How to Reduce Emotional Stress

What if I told you that a stressful event didn’t have to throw you into a spiral of anxiety? This may seem far-fetched because most of us were never taught how to regulate our own emotions. This is why so many people turn to substances, unhealthy food, or other negative coping skills. To bounce back from stress, you need to learn how to regulate your own emotions. The best skill I’ve learned for this is HeartMath.

Heartmath changed my life. I used to be absolutely terrified of public speaking – vomiting and sweating profusely before any kind of engagement. Now I actually find these opportunities fun and exciting. 

Heartmath taps into the power of the neural connection between your heart and brain. Your heart rhythm varies based on your emotional state, which sends signals to your brain.13 In Heartmath, you’ll learn how to self-activate a positive emotion and sustain it. This kicks your heart into “coherence”, which is highly ordered and rhythmic. 

Heart coherence helps to regulate many of the systems in your body, including your nervous system. Achieving coherence is a state of optimal performance, and there are many studies supporting this.13 I’ve even helped a client close on a multi-million dollar deal after learning Heartmath.

Heartmath can be a powerful tool to help regulate your own emotional response to stress. Learn more about the science behind Heartmath, and feel free to reach out with any questions. I’m able to teach Heartmath to your company, to your family, group, club or privately.

How to Reduce Biochemical Stress

Stress can induce biochemical imbalance in the body and gut microbiome. Keeping this microbiome healthy is key in the treatment of stress.

Your gut bacteria plays a huge role in mental health and stress regulation. Stress can trigger the growth of bad bacteria in your gut,  leading to leaky gut.13 This means that your gut lining becomes more permeable (or “leaky”) and allows bacteria to enter your bloodstream. This drives an inflammatory response and can further worsen stress and depression.13 

To best support gut health, make sure you’re getting the best nutrition possible. Probiotics may help to restore good bacteria in your gut.14 You also want to make sure you’re getting enough sleep and sunshine as well.

Leaky gut is so bio-individual, and you may need a specific dietary approach to help heal it. If you think you may have leaky gut, consider testing with Ixcela. Ixcela is an at-home test that identifies imbalances in the metabolites of your gut microbiome. Test results will help you identify the specific changes you need to improve leaky gut. If you’re interested in Ixcela testing:

  1. Go to http://go.ixcela.com/enroll and click on “Get Started”
  2. Enter my code ThriveResults for a special discount
  3. Complete the checkout process

You should get test results back in about two weeks. If you need help in interpreting your results, I’m able to provide further guidance! We can work together to come up with the best nutrition plan to address your specific imbalances.

Need more support?

Stress can be absolutely devastating to your health and immune system. If you’ve been struggling with stress and related health issues, it can feel like swimming upstream. Stress can easily become a vicious cycle that feels impossible to escape. Know that you don’t have to go through this alone, and it may be necessary to seek out support. I recognize the importance of addressing the true root causes of stress, and I’m here to help in any way I can.

To get started with scheduling and completing intake forms, please click this link: https://secure.gethealthie.com/users/sign_up/clients?provider_id=271482&invite_code=52421d 

If you already have an account set up in my portal, please log in with your email at www.gethealthie.com 

To your health & success,

Kristina

Sources

  1. Glaser, R., & Kiecolt-glaser, J. (2009, July 18). Stress damages immune system and health. Discovery Medicine. Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://www.discoverymedicine.com/Ronald-Glaser/2009/07/18/stress-damages-immune-system-and-health/.
  2. Segerstrom, S. C., & Miller, G. E. (2004). Psychological stress and the human immune system: A meta-analytic study of 30 years of inquiry. Psychological Bulletin130(4), 601–630. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.130.4.601 
  3. Segerstrom, S. C., & Miller, G. E. (2004). Psychological stress and the human immune system: A meta-analytic study of 30 years of inquiry. Psychological Bulletin130(4), 601–630. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.130.4.601 
  4. Michopoulos, V., Powers, A., Gillespie, C. F., Ressler, K. J., & Jovanovic, T. (2016). Inflammation in fear- and anxiety-based disorders: PTSD, GAD, and beyond. Neuropsychopharmacology42(1), 254–270. https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2016.146 
  5. Woods, J. A., Wilund, K. R., Martin, S. A., & Kistler, B. M. (2012). Exercise, inflammation and aging. Aging and disease, 3(1), 130–140.
  6. Dupuy, O., Douzi, W., Theurot, D., Bosquet, L., & Dugué, B. (2018). An evidence-based approach for choosing post-exercise recovery techniques to reduce markers of muscle damage, soreness, fatigue, and inflammation: A systematic review with meta-analysis. Frontiers in Physiology9https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2018.00403 
  7. Kiani, A. K., Maltese, P. E., Dautaj, A., Paolacci, S., Kurti, D., Picotti, P. M., & Bertelli, M. (2020). Neurobiological basis of chiropractic manipulative treatment of the spine in the care of major depression. Acta bio-medica : Atenei Parmensis, 91(13-S), e2020006. https://doi.org/10.23750/abm.v91i13-S.10536
  8. Kirkland, A. E., Sarlo, G. L., & Holton, K. F. (2018). The Role of Magnesium in Neurological Disorders. Nutrients, 10(6), 730. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10060730
  9. Rose, C., Edwards, K. M., Siegler, J., Graham, K., & Caillaud, C. (2017). Whole-body Cryotherapy as a Recovery Technique after Exercise: A Review of the Literature. International journal of sports medicine, 38(14), 1049–1060. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0043-114861
  10. Laukkanen, J. A., & Laukkanen, T. (2018). Sauna bathing and systemic inflammation. European journal of epidemiology, 33(3), 351–353. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10654-017-0335-y
  11. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Johns Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy
  12. The Science of HeartMath. HeartMath. (2021, September 20). Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://www.heartmath.com/science/.
  13. Madison, A., & Kiecolt-Glaser, J. K. (2019). Stress, depression, diet, and the gut microbiota: human-bacteria interactions at the core of psychoneuroimmunology and nutrition. Current opinion in behavioral sciences, 28, 105–110. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cobeha.2019.01.011
  14. Rao, R. K., & Samak, G. (2013). Protection and Restitution of Gut Barrier by Probiotics: Nutritional and Clinical Implications. Current nutrition and food science, 9(2), 99–107. https://doi.org/10.2174/1573401311309020004
9494

Why Distilled Water Is The “Elixir of Life”

If you’ve read this article, then you know that I’ve recently discovered Reams Biological Theory of Ionization, or RBTI for short. While RBTI is considered an “alternative” approach to health, it also is a fantastic way to both personalize and simplify your road to health. 

Why?

Well, long story short, according to RBTI, there is a formula for “perfect health” based on Reams’s “perfect numbers” idea. While the “perfect numbers” are the same for everyone, each individual person has different numbers that require different actions to reach their “perfect numbers.” 

And that’s where we begin this discussion on why Dr. Reams considered distilled water “the elixir of life,” but also why distilled water is the healthiest water you can drink. 

Let’s dive into why distilled water is superior by first looking at the importance of water itself…  

The importance of water for your health and wellbeing

Through Dr. Carey Reams’s research, he discovered that water plays a crucial role in the body’s internal environment and mechanisms. But, unlike other animals, humans actually don’t require as much water… which, despite being counterintuitive, is exactly why humans need to put more emphasis on their water consumption. 

Let’s look at a couple of examples: 

A 500-lb steer requires about 25 gallons of water each day for life. That’s a 42% water requirement compared to their body weight. Plants have an even more dramatic water requirement: Each day they need 3 times their body weight in water to sustain life. That’s a 300% water requirement compared to their weight! 

Humans, on the other hand, only require about 3.2% of their body weight in water. And while this seems like it’s a cakewalk compared to steer or plants…

Humans are actually one of the most dehydrated animals on Earth! 

Since we don’t need as much water to sustain our life, it often takes the backburner. Instead of being one of our main focal points for life itself, it’s much lower on our priority list, and we tend to neglect it. 

Here’s what this means in raw data:

  • 75% of Americans are considered “chronically dehydrated” 
  • In 37% of Amercians, our thirst mechanism is so weak that we often mistake it for hunger! 
  • And having even one glass of water before bed will shut down midnight hunger pangs by 100% (according to the dieters studied at the University of Washington) 

There are more jarring stats and figures about water consumption, giving more proof that humans don’t prioritize water consumption like every other animal on the planet does. We’ll dive into this later in this article. 

The important part for you to understand for now is this:

While humans have one of the lowest water requirements of all animals, we’re also one of the worst species on Earth when it comes to getting enough of our water intake! 

It’s for this reason, at least according to Dr. Reams himself, that humans need to pay particular attention to their water consumption. 

The connection between your water consumption and liver health

Based on these findings, Dr. Reams made another crucial discovery: 

Water is vital to your liver health. 

Here’s why:

The liver requires three primary substances to maintain its functions. Those three substances, listed in order of importance, include: 

  1. Water
  2. Oxygen
  3. Calcium

Dr. Reams compared these three substances to a three-legged stool: If any of the legs didn’t work, the stool itself would be rendered ineffective. 

And so it is with your liver. 

Here’s where this spells trouble: 

Since 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated, then it goes without saying that 75% of Americans are working with a suboptimal liver. Worse yet, since one of the liver’s main duties is to create the beginning molecules that the body relies on to maintain all its other tissues, glands, and organs, this lack of water problem may give us insight into why Amercians, as a whole, are so unhealthy (despite being the richest country in the world).  

This discovery is also what led Dr. Reams to believe that distilled water is the #1 type of water for human consumption. 

Let’s dive into that now… 

Why distilled water is the superior type of water for humans

Believe it or not, in its pure state, water is supposed to be both tasteless and odorless. We may find this hard to believe since most of our water consumption today has a taste to it (due to the different minerals included in bottled water, tap water, and other types of water we drink most often). But scientifically speaking, pure water is tasteless and odorless. 

Why does this matter?

Well, as we discussed, Dr. Reams discovered that water plays a crucial role in the body’s internal environment and mechanisms. 

But let’s take a deeper dive into why distilled water is superior:

Water is the most important substance for your liver for reasons we already covered, plus the fact that water acts as a universal solvent. In other words, water was designed to carry electromagnetic frequencies in order to promote and enhance the energy exchange and storage which is vital for human wellbeing. 

These discoveries led Dr. Reams to believe that the best water is not only pure, but “wet” and “high energy” too.

What does that mean?

Well, dry water, according to Dr. Reams’s definition, means water that contains very little energy.  

Despite being the universal solvent, water that functions at its optimum for human health in the liver and body as a whole, then it must also be wet and high energy. This is what allows water to best carry energy on the human frequency. 

Translation: 

This means that not only is distilled water the best, but steamed distilled water is even better. Why? Because steamed distilled water can carry or take more ionic energy on the human frequency than any other type of water. 

When it comes to practical ways steamed distilled water can improve your health, check out these “fun facts” about water: 

  • Since even mild dehydration can lower your metabolism’s speed by 3%, drinking steamed distilled water can make stark improvements in your metabolism. 
  • The #1 cause of daytime fatigue is lack of water, so steamed distilled water can help you avoid afternoon crashes better than a cup of coffee. 
  • According to preliminary research, proper water consumption each day could reduce back and joint pain by 80%. 
  • And drinking enough water each day can also help your brain stay sharp and focused (since a mere 2% drop in body water can cause fuzzy short-term memory, trouble with basic math, and difficulty focusing on tough tasks). 

But that’s not all Dr. Reams discovered… he also figured out that water molecules have a memory, and they’re in effect the USB drives of Mother Nature. 

Let’s dive into this next:

The strange memory properties of water (and why it makes distilled water the best option for your health) 

The molecules of water are able to retain memories. So if you’re drinking water from a spring, well, creek, river or pond, that water will contain a combined memory of the electromagnetic fields of every piece of rock or bit of soil it’s come into contact with. These memories cause H20 molecules to cluster, which makes it hard (if not, impossible) to penetrate—and hydrate—your cells. 

That said, the distillation process (which involves heating water to become a vapor, then cooling it back into a liquid form) erases the water’s memory. When water’s memory gets erased, the water molecules decluster, allowing for superior hydration, especially to your cells. When it comes to the electromagnetic energy, distilled water becomes a better carrier of these electromagnetic energies, making it more apt to transfer them to your body’s organs and tissues. 

Let’s examine some other ways this impacts your real, day-to-day health: 

Since mineral water (which includes most forms of bottled water) is the poorest and least beneficial type of water for your body’s chemistry, this may explain why 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated, why we have so many aches and pains in our joints, and why cancer runs so rampant in our society. 

Let’s look at that last point in more detail:

According to Reams, properly consuming 5 glasses of proper water (which is to say, water that has had its memory cleared) results in… 

  • 45% smaller chance of developing colon cancer
  • 79% reduced risk in developing breast cancer 
  • And makes you 50% less likely to develop bladder cancer 

Since most Americans drink bottled or tap water, filled with minerals and other substances, this may explain one of the major causes of cancer running wild. 

More: 

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, defined as a serious and complicated long-term disorder that affects several bodily processes with the common thread between each person being profound exhaustion, regardless of how much (or little) you sleep someone gets, is also a major problem among Americans. According to the CDC, up to 2.5 million Americans suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. And lack of proper water may explain why… 

Here’s why:

Proper water consumption—again, defined as drinking water with its memory cleared—during waking hours is worth an hour of sleep each night. Imagine how many hours of sleep you’re losing each day by drinking bottled or tap water that’s riddled with minerals and other substances instead of drinking steamed distilled water, or other forms of water that have had its memory cleared.  

One of the biggest benefits of water is the energy transfer between organs and tissues, and so drinking water that doesn’t have this energy factor available can explain many of our chronic, degenerative and modern-day diseases. 

The only thing left to tackle now, is how much distilled water you should drink to unlock the life-giving benefits of proper water consumption… 

So, how much distilled water should I drink?

While we covered a lot of the “why” for distilled water in this article—and I know we covered a lot—we haven’t discussed the “how” of distilled water. Or, in other words, how much distilled water should you drink?

Luckily for us, Dr. Reams created a formula for this! 

According to Reams, you can determine how much distilled water you need to drink per day by dividing your weight by 2, then converting that number to ounces. 

So, for example, let’s say you weigh 100 lbs: 

100/2 = 50, which means you’d need to drink 50 oz of distilled water per day to meet your daily water requirement. This is in addition to whatever water you’re consuming through food or other beverages throughout your day. 

More: 

Reams thought that it was best to divide your water intake into at least 20 increments, spread throughout a 10-hour day, meaning you drink one increment (in this case, 1/20th) of your water requirement every half hour. 

Not to mention, if you exert yourself physically, find yourself in hot weather, or are prone to sweating, then you’ll need to increase your water intake to offset what you lose through your sweat. 

As Reams often suggested, the only way to determine how much water you actually need is by “going to the numbers,” which became Reams’s catchphrase for RBTI work. Only by “going to the numbers” will you reveal the perfect answers to your health and wellbeing. 

Need help “going to the numbers” and creating a game plan for “perfect health” using RBTI? 

Book a consultation with me here: https://secure.gethealthie.com/users/sign_up/clients?invite_code=52421d

884

What is RBTI (And How It Simplifies & Personalizes Your Health)?

I’ve often mentioned in emails I sendarticles I write, and on podcasts I’m interviewed on how I think nutrigenomics is the future of nutrition. While I still believe this to be true, I’ve discovered (and started using) another complementary approach to nutrition that further simplifies and personalizes your nutrition for optimal health and wellness. 

This newer approach is called Reams Biological Theory of Ionization, or RBTI for short. Like nutrigenomics, RBTI is also focused on the role nutrition plays in your optimal health. But unlike nutrigenomics, RBTI is more focused on your body’s chemistry, using different parameters such as pH, conductivity, and sugar levels instead of taking a more molecular and genetic approach to nutrition. 

In this article, you’ll discover what RBTI is, how Dr. Carey Reams discovered it (and why the scientific community hasn’t “accepted” it), and how it further simplifies and personalizes your nutrition for optimal health. 

First, let me explain what RBTI is:

What is Reams Biological Theory of Ionization, or RBTI?

RBTI is a system Dr. Carey Reams, a biochemist and agricultural scientist, developed in the mid-20th century. RBTI focuses on measuring and balancing your body’s chemistry, mainly through the analysis of urine and saliva samples. 

So, what does your body’s chemistry have to do with the optimal functioning of your health?

Here’s where RBTI gets interesting…

According to Reams theory, the balance of specific minerals, sugars, salts, and other substances in bodily fluids determine the health of your body. Reams identified the perfect number of ratios across all these substances to give the optimal health for humans. By perfecting the range of proper carb, salt, urine, and pH, you’ll achieve optimal health. 

Just like reading your individual genome, RBTI is also a highly personalized approach to nutrition. 

To reach the “perfect numbers” that create optimal functioning and health in your body, everyone needs different things. This also explains why some people do better on particular dietary patterns such as keto, paleo, plant-based and RBTI provides a direction towards which foods might be necessary to include.  

Over the coming weeks, I’ll dive more into different subset topics of RBTI, like why calcium is the most important mineral, why distilled water is the best type to drink, and how to determine your digestive health by analyzing the pH of your urine and saliva. 

But today, I want to give you a 40,000 ft view of RBTI in general before we dive into the nitty-gritty details. 

While RBTI is a groundbreaking system that simplifies and personalizes nutrition and health for everyone, it’s received quite a bit of backlash from the scientific community, which is why it’s not as mainstream of an idea as it should be. 

So, why have scientists tried to discredit something that could be instantly useful and helpful to hundreds of thousands of people? To explain this, we first must look into how Dr. Reams created this practice. 

How Dr. Carey Reams Developed RBTI (And Why the Scientific Community Hasn’t “Accepted” It)

As mentioned, Dr. Reams was a brilliant biochemist and agricultural scientist. He even studied under Einstein at Stanford. In addition to this, he was a brilliant mathematician too. And, like most great scientists, he was truly ahead of his time. (Dr. Reams passed away in 1985.) 

He began his career as an agricultural scientist, studying soil chemistry and its impact on plant health and productivity. One of his first major breakthroughs—both as a student and for his RBTI theory—came when he realized that the chemical composition of soil has a massive impact on the quality and yield of crops. 

In fact, that’s what gave him the idea behind RBTI: 

If the soil—namely, the minerals and nutrients in said soil—has a great influence over the quality and yield of crops, perhaps it makes the same impact on human health. His work later proved this to be true: By optimizing for specific nutrient and mineral balances, humans can achieve optimal health. 

Here’s how: 

One day, back in 1931, Reams got his first human patient, which became a significant milestone in both his life and with his RBTI system. 

There was a family in Reams’s neighborhood who knew about his biochemistry studies, and wanted Reams to see if he could help their epileptic son heal. He took this invitation very seriously. He spent a week fasting and praying to God before he made the connection between the soil he’s been studying, and humans. 

That’s when he arrived at his “formula” for developing optimal health in the human body. Reams believed that bodily fluids, particularly urine and saliva, could provide valuable insights for a human’s overall health. Which led Reams to start experimenting with urine and saliva samples to gain a deeper understanding into the body’s chemistry. 

That’s how he developed a set of measurements, including pH, conductivity, and sugar levels, which reflected the balance of minerals and other substances in the body. 

Then, Reams went to the epileptic child, and applied his theory to him. 

The result? 

After analyzing the boy’s urine and saliva, he made an important discovery: The kid was not epileptic. He had extreme low blood sugar. The epileptic symptoms were caused by low sugar problems. He realized the boy had a pancreas malfunction, not epilepsy!

Reams then developed a diet for the boy which would rebalance the various numbers in Reams’s formula. The diet worked, and the boy stayed well, never having another epileptic episode again. 

And thus, Reams Biological Theory of Ionization (or RBTI) was born.   

Over time, Reams refined his theories, establishing a system for interpreting the results of urine and saliva analysis. He developed guidelines, recommendations, and even perfect ratios for balancing the body’s chemistry through dietary and lifestyle changes. 

Once he developed and fleshed out his RBTI system, he began teaching the principles and techniques to a wide range of practitioners, who saw their patients achieve life-changing results by following the RBTI approach. 

Despite this, RBTI isn’t mainstream nutrition. I never learned about it while studying for my Master’s. And many people in the nutritional community—even in the more “alternative” circles—haven’t heard of RBTI or Dr. Carey Reams. 

Why?

Well, the unfortunate truth is that Reams never became too popular in the scientific community because he was very religious—which most scientists have a preconceived bias about. But this has been a net loss for the field of nutrition because RBTI has unlocked better health for thousands and thousands of people Dr. Reams helped personally, and indirectly through his training of practitioners across the world. 

How RBTI Simplifies and Personalizes Your Health And Wellness

As I mentioned above, Reams created a formula for “perfect health” using his “perfect numbers” methodology. But what does that actually mean?

First, let’s discuss what “perfect health” means according to Reams:

By taking Reams’s “perfect health” test, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of:

  • Calcium needs for your body’s chemistry
  • Foods you are digesting and foods you are not digesting
  • How your body assimilates nutrients (or lack thereof) 
  • Your vitamin and mineral deficiencies 
  • Your blood sugar levels (high, normal, or low) and oxygen availability (which is the “forgotten” nutrient) 
  • If your body has excess yeast or parasites 
  • Excess stress on your internal organs (kidneys, liver, heart, colon, gallbladder) 
  • The health of your liver and gallbladder 

Plus, it also reveals whether the chemistry in your body is contributing to circulatory problems, high or low blood pressure, arthritis, weight gain, high cholesterol, and kidney/gall stones. 

In other words, it tells you exactly what’s contributing to your state of disease and gives you a roadmap for unlocking optimal health. 

As for his “perfect numbers” formula… 

The “perfect numbers” for Biological Ionization (or ideal health) represent the ideal cellular resistance required for life. It’s similar to how 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit means a healthy body, and any temperature above or below 98.6 signifies disease. 

And as I mentioned above, your “perfect numbers” can be wildly different from someone else’s “perfect numbers” even if you have similar symptoms. Which, in turn, means that the approach for each person to reach their “perfect numbers” can vary greatly from individual to individual. 

Want to see how RBTI can unlock optimal health for you?

Interested in implementing an RBTI approach to your nutrition and health? Well, since I’m certified in RBTI I can commission your RBTI test. Then I’ll help you not only interpret your results, but create a protocol for hitting your “perfect numbers.” 

Interested? 

>>Book an initial consultation with me here<<

Not ready for your initial consultation? 

I encourage you to sign up for my email list, so you can discover what health strategies are working right now, to learn more about RBTI, and to get a free sample of keto-friendly recipes. 
>>Join my email list here (and I’ll also send free samples of keto-friendly recipes too<<)

8

Why I’m Adding The 3X4 Genetics Test (in Addition to the Nutrition Genome Test)

Whether you’ve been following me for a while, are a private client of mine, or wish to become a private client, then you’re familiar with the groundbreaking (and growing) world of Nutrigenomics.

If you’re new here, or never heard the term “nutrigenomics” before, here’s what it means:

Nutrigenomics, in my opinion, is the future of nutrition. Why? Well, it’s the integrative study of the interaction of nutrition and genes, especially about the prevention or treatment of disease. (If you want a deeper dive into why Nutrigenomics is the future of nutrition, check out this article: Nutrigenomics: How It’s Changing Nutrition Forever

Over the past 18 months or so, I’ve studied and have been certified in the field of nutrigenomics. And it’s been a massive help for my clients who have used nutrigenomics to get a better understanding of the relationship between their genes and nutrients at the molecular level. 

Since learning about nutrigenomics, up to getting certified in it, I’ve used only one test for it: the Nutrition Genome DNA Test. 

While the Nutrition Genome DNA Test is an incredible piece of technology, which gives you a deep insight into your digestion, energy, hormones, stress and cognitive performance, inflammation and longevity, athletic performance, DNA protection and repair, and detoxification pathways, there was always a problem with the test itself: 

It’s not as easy to interpret and analyze your data, so you can implement the incredible insights it uncovers. While their data is fantastic, it borders on the side of science-y instead of being easy to implement. 

That’s why, after long hours of research, I’ve decided to add another test: The 3×4 Genetics Test

Here’s why:

Introducing The 3×4 Genetics Test 

During my lengthy research process looking for an alternative nutrigenomics test for my clients, I came across a company called 3×4 Genetics, started by a brilliant dietitian, author, adjunct professor teaching Nutrigenomics at Rutgers University and at Maryland University of Integrative Health, Dr. Yael Joffe PhD RD(SA) FACN. 

She’s appeared on a countless number of podcasts, which is how I found her and learned about her company. Plus, Dr. Yael also hosts her own podcast show, called The Power of Genetics with Dr Yael Joffe

Her brilliance as a leading voice in the nutrigenomics movement isn’t all she’s done, she also has a TON of experience as both a dietitian and as a professor teaching nutrigenomics. Plus, Dr. Yael understands the crucial thing we need in the nutrition community to make nutrigenomics a mainstream idea: 

She understands how to explain this information in a way that anybody could understand—even if you’ve never heard of nutrigenomics before. 

And that’s why I’m so excited to introduce the 3×4 Genetics Test into my private practice

Not only is the 3×4 Genetics Test every bit as good as the Nutrition Genome test, but it’s also much, much, much easier to interpret your results—which is the #1 reason why I decided to add it. (It doesn’t hurt that it’s a little cheaper either!)

Let me explain why it’s easier to interpret your results: 

What Makes The 3×4 Genetics Test More User-Friendly? 

First, and most importantly, the 3×4 Genetics Test is more user-friendly because they do a better job at simplifying the advanced data you’ll receive after taking the test. The best data in the world won’t make an actual difference in your life if you can’t interpret and act upon the data. 

The 3×4 Genetics Test excels at this by putting their advanced data into intuitive buckets. 

Here’s what that means:

Besides the test itself, they also give you a Blueprint Report, which provides key insights and practical and personalized recommendations for you to start taking control of your health. They do this by breaking up your results into 6 major performance buckets: 

  1. Weight balance
  2. Heart health 
  3. Blood sugar regulation 
  4. Brain health 
  5. Fitness & tissue health
  6. Hormone health 

They even let you tailor your health choices specific to your needs. 

Let’s say you’re more concerned with your weight balance than any of the other health buckets: 

They break down your nutrigenomics data into subcategories of weight balance, which includes: 

  • Appetite / Satiety / Intake
  • Adipogenesis 
  • Energy Expenditure 
  • Exercise Response 
  • Glucose & Insulin 
  • Hormone Balance
  • Pro-Inflammatory Fat

They offer these subcategories for each of the main 6 performance buckets. 

Best part?

By far my favorite “feature” of the 3×4 Genetics Test is that they offer practical and personalized action steps when any number is off in a certain subcategory or main bucket. This makes it easy to go from data to action, which is something many of my clients struggled with on the Nutrition Genome test. 

Plus, it’s a swab test too, which was one of my clients’ favorite aspects of the Nutrition Genome test. 

If you’re interesting in getting an in-depth blueprint of your overall health and wellness level, as well as actionable steps you can take to improve various health markers, you can order a 3×4 Genetics Test below:

>>Order your 3×4 Genetics Test online here<< 

If you need help understanding the ins and outs of the report and building a plan that makes sense for your genetic code, I’ve helped many of my clients with this and would love to help you too! 

If you’d like to set up a virtual meeting with me to help you create a plan you can stick to, you can schedule it here.

4949

Announcement: New Signos Partnership Unlocks Faster & More Effective Weight Loss

I have an important announcement if you’re interested in losing weight faster and more effectively than methods you’ve tried in the past. I often talk about the importance of metabolic health, using data to improve your health, and how critical personalized nutrition is to your health outcomes.

Well, this announcement passes all three criteria with flying colors…

The announcement?

I’m partnering with Signos, a pioneering health tech company that helps you understand your individual, unique metabolism by using a CGM (continuous glucose monitor), and their app which tracks all your data in real-time, so you can see how your body responds to the foods you eat, as well as your stress, sleep, exercise, and other factors.

The level of insight this strategy gives you into your metabolism allows us to make better, more personalized recommendations that inevitably lead to you reaching your goals faster.

Plus, their app also makes suggestions on how to make micro-changes to your daily lifestyle to keep your glucose stable, which is scientifically proven to help you lose weight, sleep better, and feel better overall.

While my partnership with Signos is new, the solution itself is a leading company in the space. They have over 20,000 users already losing weight and improving their metabolic health with this solution. They also have the largest metabolic data set in the world. And they’re even backed by Google to help solve the obesity epidemic.

Here’s why:

Most people make 227 food decisions—each and every day.

Yes, you read that right!

Two hundred and twenty-seven food decisions daily. 

This statistic was realized from a study published from Cornell University. And the details of the study—where people underestimated their daily food decisions by an average of over 221 decisions and overate 31% more food than they realized (of which, 21% denied that they overate at all)—are even more shocking.

In fact, this even gives us clues into the obesity epidemic:

Perhaps it’s not so much of an obesity epidemic as it is a mindless eating one, which inevitably causes obesity. 

Despite most people’s brazen unawareness with how many food decisions they make (and I can hardly blame them, even I was shocked to learn that we make 227 food decisions every day), your body is fully aware of each and every one of these 227 decisions.

For example, every single food decision you make—from #1 all the way up to #227—impacts your blood sugar. Certain foods that make your blood sugar drop deplete your energy. And the reverse is equally as bad: Foods that raise your blood sugar too high can result in your body storing fat.

To make matters worse…

Everyone has a unique metabolism, and while some foods are healthy for some people, they can create havoc for others. For example, when I went vegan (and ate what you’d consider “healthy” foods), I broke several bones, saw my energy collapse, and lived in a constant state of brain fog. But keto reversed all of these problems for me.

Long story short: Nutrition is hard and individualized. Not to mention, there’s a variety of factors—like your stress levels, sleep quality, exercise consistency, and more—that can impact your metabolism, and negatively affect how your body reacts and feels.

That’s why I partnered with Signos, so you can track your unique metabolism’s needs and responses to all the above factors (and more) in real-time! 

That means…

For all 227 food decisions you make in a given day, your Signos CGM will provide real-time feedback on how your body actually responds.

The result?

Weight falls off your body faster.

Your energy levels soar.

Your sleep improves.

You reduce your risk of every type of preventative disease caused by obesity.

And even your mood improves, with each and every bite you take.

Best part?

Their app can also reveal micro-changes to your daily lifestyle to keep your glucose stable.

So, what does the Signos CGM & Coaching program cost?

If you’re interested, you need to commit to a three-month coaching plan, which costs $500 per month ($1,500 total). Any packages above this level (which include the $750, $1000 & $2,000/mo) will include the CGM automatically.

If you’re already working with me, all you need to do is simply upgrade your package to a $500 one. If we’re not already working together, then you can sign up for a $500/mo package and commit for three months.

(You MUST commit to a three-month plan, so you get the best results from the Signos CGM, and so I can see if this is something I want to offer my broader client list.) 

If you’d like to try the CGM Monitoring & Coaching Package, you can sign up via Healthie below:

>> Get CGM monitoring & coaching here <<

If you don’t want to commit for three months…

Introducing the Transformation CGM Challenge

As excited as many of my clients were to try this groundbreaking piece of health tech, there have been an equal number of you that have wondered if there was a way to try a CGM without committing for three months.

Well, I have good news on that front:

If you’d like to take my CGM Monitoring and Coaching Program for a 30-day test run, I put together a special version of the Transformation 42 Challenge, which also includes a CGM.

I’m calling it the “Transformation CGM Challenge.”

Now, there are some differences between this Transformation CGM Challenge and the typical Transformation 42 Challenges you’re used to…

First, since signing up for this challenge means you get a CGM, this challenge will cost an investment of $500 to cover the costs of the CGM. The level of insight this strategy gives you into your metabolism allows us to make better, more personalized recommendations that inevitably lead to you reaching your goals faster.

Second, instead of 42 days, this challenge will only run 30 days because having the CGM will fast track your progress towards your goals.

Third, you will also receive two private follow-up consultations with me, to help you analyze your CGM data, make a permanent plan to lose weight (and keep it off), improve your metabolic health, sleep better, and feel amazing more often.

Other than that, the same rules for Transformation 42 still apply. If you need a reminder, here are the rules for this Transformation CGM Challenge:

1. Pick a diet and stick to it for the full 30 days! You can pick any diet you want (paleo, keto, vegan, gluten-free, IIFYM, whole foods, etc.) as long as it has structure. And no cheat days are allowed!

2. No alcohol at all for the 30 days.

3. Drink half of your body weight in ounces every day.

4. Two 45 minute workouts each day. And one HAS to take place outside (walks are strongly recommended).

5. Take weekly progress pics every week of the challenge.

6. Read 10 pages of a nonfiction book every day. (Many people like reading personal growth books, but you can read whatever nonfiction book you’d like.)

Best part?

Thanks to your handy CGM and the Signos app, you’ll get an even clearer picture of how this challenge transforms your health.

Your CGM gives you…

  • Real-time blood sugar and trend data
  • In-app nutritionist support
  • Predictive glucose for your meals
  • Fasting and meal timing tips
  • Exercise and activity recommendations
  • Stable energy levels throughout the day

So, not only will your results surpass perhaps any other T42 Challenge that you’ve done before, but it should also make the entire challenge a little bit easier. Now, this is still a tough challenge that will test your mental strength and endurance. But the CGM will make it easier, and more effective than past T42 you might’ve participated in.

The Transformation CGM Challenge begins on Monday, March 11th.

That said… The deadline to sign up for this challenge is March 4th. 

If you’d like to join us for this introductory Transformation CGM Challenge, you can register below:

>> Register for the introductory Transformation CGM Challenge here <<

Even though this challenge doesn’t begin until March 11, you must sign up before March 4th. There’s a hard deadline to sign up for this challenge because it requires sending you your wearable CGM. I also need at least four people to commit to the Transformation CGM Challenge (because that’s how many units I need to order at a time).

If you’ve already signed up for the 3-month CGM program, you can join the challenge at no extra cost.

If you’re not already subscribed to my emails, I encourage you to fill in your email address in the footer of this page, so you can be the first to know about new announcements, challenges, and other tips and tricks to improve your health.