What to know:

Most of us think of metabolism as either “fast” or “slow” and grow frustrated when on a fat loss, or body recomposition journey, when our metabolism isn’t functioning the way we want.  Metabolic health is a much bigger concept, however,  that refers to the energy efficiency of your entire body. Metabolic health can be summarized as the total sum of biochemical reactions and processes in your body related to energy, and it is the biggest predictor of quality of life, life span, mental and emotional well-being, and chronic diseases.  Typically, western doctors will look at 5 main blood markers to determine if someone is metabolically unwell; however, over 80% of the US population qualifies as having metabolic syndrome in one form or another. Metabolic syndrome refers to the condition of metabolic dysfunction that has overt manifestations in ones health, as measured frequently by blood glucose levels, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and waist circumference (among other factors).

Improving one’s metabolic health means improving the energy efficiency of your body, reducing inflammation, and discovering the mental and emotional wellness that results from the synergy of a healthy mind, spirit, and body. Many researchers have begun to explore metabolic therapies for the treatment and prevention of a number of chronic conditions, from diabetes, to cancer, as well as mental illness and autoimmune conditions.

When a person is able to improve their metabolic health, body fat often reduces to a healthy level, blood sugars stabilize, inflammation comes down, and energy levels improve dramatically. Frequently, people will experience profound shifts in their physical experience, from reduced pain, less common aches, improved sleep, and overall improvements in quality of life.

Functional or holistic nutrition is the predominant modality that I use with groups and clients to help improve their individual metabolic health. There are a number of factors that impact our dietary choices, and functional nutrition looks at both the target goals as well as current reality of each individual client. Not all people need to eat the same way; there is a wide variety of eating that can be effective for achieving any single goal. However, eating for metabolic wellness shares similarities regardless of individual dietary need and preference. A functional approach to nutrition considers not only the food choice, but also the lifestyle of the individual. Food preparation, weekly schedule, work routine, social and spiritual fulfillment, stress management, and sleep are all components of a holistic and functional perspective on diet. 

From the Greek “diaita” the word diet means “way of life." Our ability to achieve our goals is the end result of a number of lifestyle behaviors that extend beyond just food. What we nourish ourselves with, along with how we choose to consume it, extends beyond the mere food macros and calories on the plate. I take this holistic approach to improving wellness with groups and individual clients. Going deeper into the realities of the individuals’ lifestyle, finding realistic solutions to previously frustrating problems, and utilizing practical tools for adherence and success.  I will partner with you to find new ways of eating and new ways of living that spark more joy, more vibrancy, and overall wellness.