Everything You Need to Know About Intermittent Fasting

wall clock and shelf with fruit

Intermittent fasting (IF) has gained immense popularity as a tool for weight management, metabolic health, and longevity. But is it right for everyone? In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of intermittent fasting, who should and shouldn’t do it, common side effects and how to manage them, and best practices for optimal results.

What is Intermittent Fasting?

Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of eating and fasting. Unlike traditional diets, IF focuses on when you eat rather than what you eat. Research suggests it can support weight loss, improve insulin sensitivity, promote cellular repair, and even increase longevity.

One of the key principles behind fasting is the shift from glucose metabolism to fat metabolism, where the body starts utilizing stored fat for energy. This process, known as metabolic switching, can enhance fat-burning and improve overall metabolic flexibility.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Try Intermittent Fasting?

Who Can Benefit from Intermittent Fasting?

Intermittent fasting can be beneficial for:

    • Those looking to improve metabolic health and insulin sensitivity
    • Individuals wanting a structured approach to calorie control
    • People experiencing stubborn weight loss resistance
    • Those interested in improving cellular repair (autophagy)
    • Individuals aiming for better brain function and mental clarity
    • Athletes looking for improved fat adaptation

Who Should Avoid Intermittent Fasting?

Intermittent fasting is not suitable for everyone. You should avoid IF or consult a healthcare professional if you:

    • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
    • Have a history of eating disorders
    • Struggle with adrenal fatigue or chronic stress
    • Have blood sugar regulation issues (such as hypoglycemia)
    • Are on medications that require food intake
    • Have an underlying medical condition that could be aggravated by fasting

Types of Intermittent Fasting

There are several ways to incorporate intermittent fasting into your lifestyle. The key is finding a method that works best for your body and lifestyle.

    1. 16/8 Method – Fast for 16 hours and eat within an 8-hour window. This is the most common method and is often used for weight loss and metabolic benefits.
    2. 14/10 Method – Similar to 16/8, but with a 10-hour eating window. A good starting point for beginners.
    3. OMAD (One Meal a Day) – Eating one large meal per day and fasting for approximately 23 hours. Best for experienced fasters.
    4. 5:2 Diet – Eat normally five days a week and restrict calorie intake (500-600 calories) on two non-consecutive days.
    5. Alternate-Day Fasting – Alternate between fasting days (typically consuming no or very few calories) and eating normally on the other days.
    6. KetoFasting (Hybrid Fasting + Ketogenic Diet) – Dr. Joseph Mercola’s approach to fasting, where you combine a ketogenic diet with fasting for cellular detoxification. Learn more about KetoFast here.

How Long Should You Fast?

The duration of your fasting window depends on your experience level and health goals:

    • Beginners: Start with a 12-hour fast and gradually progress to 14-16 hours.
    • Intermediate: Aim for 16-18 hour fasting windows a few times per week.
    • Advanced: Experiment with 20+ hour fasts or extended fasting (24-48 hours), but only if you are experienced and under medical supervision.

Common Side Effects and How To Manage Them

1. Hunger and Cravings

    • Stay hydrated, consume mineral-rich water, drink herbal tea, and include healthy fats in your meals to keep you satiated.

2. Fatigue and Low Energy

    • Ensure you’re getting enough electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium), and try easing into fasting with shorter durations.

3. Headaches

    • Drink plenty of water and increase your intake of electrolytes like Himalayan salt or electrolyte supplements.

4. Digestive Issues (Bloating, Constipation)

    • Increase fiber intake from non-starchy vegetables and consider digestive enzymes or probiotics.

5. Sleep Disturbances

    • Avoid caffeine late in the day and try fasting earlier in the evening instead of skipping breakfast.

Tips for a Successful Intermittent Fasting Experience

    • Prioritize nutrient-dense meals: Break your fast with whole, unprocessed foods rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
    • Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps reduce hunger and supports detoxification.
    • Listen to your body: If fasting makes you feel unwell, adjust your eating window or try a different method.
    • Exercise smartly: If you train intensely, time your workouts around your eating window to support recovery.
    • Don’t overeat: Just because you’re fasting doesn’t mean you should binge during eating windows.

Intermittent fasting can be a powerful tool for optimizing health, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Finding the right fasting method that works for your body and lifestyle is key. If you’re new to fasting, start slow and make adjustments based on how you feel.

Interested in learning more about how fasting can work for you? Check out Dr. Joseph Mercola’s KetoFast for an in-depth approach to combining fasting with a ketogenic lifestyle.

Looking for intermittent fasting support? Book a complimentary session today!

Have you tried intermittent fasting? Share your experience in the comments below!

Creatine – A Must-Have for Athletes & Women in Menopause

woman post-workout

Why Creatine is More Than Just a Gym Supplement

Creatine has long been associated with weightlifting and muscle building, but new research shows that it’s a powerhouse supplement for both males and females, (especially during menopause)!

If you’re an athlete looking to optimize performance or a woman wanting to maintain muscle and bone density, creatine might be exactly what you need.

What Is Creatine & Why Does It Matter?

Creatine is a naturally occurring compound found in muscle cells. It helps produce energy during high-intensity exercise and has been shown to support muscle recovery, brain function, and overall health.

How Creatine Helps Different Groups:

    • Athletes (Male & Female): Improves strength, endurance, and recovery
    • Women in Menopause: Helps maintain muscle mass and bone density
    • Brain Health: Supports cognitive function and mental clarity

During menopause, the natural decline in estrogen accelerates muscle loss, bone density reduction, and cognitive changes, making it harder to maintain strength and energy levels. Creatine supplementation has been shown to help counteract these effects by preserving lean muscle mass, supporting brain function, and enhancing overall physical resilience, helping women stay strong and vibrant through this transition.

How To Use Creatine Safely:

    • Choose high-quality creatine monohydrate with NO fillers
    • Cycle usage – take breaks to avoid dependency, (i.e. 4 weeks on, 1 week off)
    • Stay hydrated to prevent muscle cramping
    • Young athletes should get parental approval before use

Want More Targeted Support?

For those looking for comprehensive performance or hormone support, I’ve curated:
The Athlete Performance Supplement Bundle – to help fuel endurance, strength, and recovery
The Women’s Hormone Support Bundle – to optimize energy, metabolism, and hormone balance

Both include high-quality, research-backed supplements that pair well with a smart nutrition and training plan.

Want to learn more? Let’s chat.

Book a Consultation

Disclaimer: Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. This is for informational purposes only and not medical advice.

Is Your Diet Putting You at Risk for Type 3 Diabetes?

walnuts on blue background

How Ultra-Processed Foods & Blood Sugar Spikes Could Be Harming Your Brain

Did you know that your diet could be increasing your risk for Alzheimer’s and dementia? Scientists now refer to Alzheimer’s as Type 3 Diabetes because of the strong link between blood sugar imbalances, insulin resistance, and cognitive decline.

Blood sugar spikes don’t just lead to weight gain or fatigue, they can literally change the way your brain functions over time. So what’s driving this issue?

The Culprit: Ultra-Processed Foods & Metabolic Dysfunction
Modern diets are filled with ultra-processed foods that wreak havoc on metabolic health. These include:

    • Refined carbs (white bread, pastries, sugary cereals)
    • Industrial seed oils (canola, soybean, sunflower oil, safflower)
    • Hidden sugars (flavored yogurts, sauces, even so-called “healthy” protein bars)

These foods cause rapid blood sugar spikes, inflammation, and insulin resistance, which not only increases your risk for diabetes but also impacts brain function.

Dr. Casey Means recently explained how good energy, mental clarity, and long-term brain health start with stable blood sugar. When your body experiences chronic spikes and crashes, it sets off a cascade of metabolic damage that can lead to early cognitive decline.

The Solution: Stabilizing Blood Sugar with Whole Foods
The best way to protect your brain and body is to ditch ultra-processed foods and focus on whole, nutrient-dense meals.

    • Healthy Fats: Avocados, olive oil, nuts, seeds
    • High-Quality Proteins: Grass-fed beef, pasture-raised eggs, wild-caught fish
    • Fiber-Rich Vegetables: Cruciferous veggies, leafy greens, colorful produce
    • Slow-Digesting Carbs: Sweet potatoes, quinoa, legumes
  • Pairing these foods with blood glucose monitoring can help you make informed choices about what fuels your body best.

Are You at Risk? If you struggle with:

    • Brain fog
    • Low energy
    • Intense cravings
    • Mood swings

… it’s time to take a deeper look at your blood sugar and metabolic health.

I’m now incorporating blood glucose monitoring into my practice to help clients identify hidden blood sugar imbalances and optimize their long-term health.

Want to learn more? Let’s chat.

Schedule a Consultation

Unlocking the Secrets of Your Health with Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Imagine having a tool that provides real-time insights into your body’s inner workings. What if you could know exactly how your meals, workouts, sleep patterns, and stress levels impact your health? That’s the power of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM), and starting in 2025, it will be an integral part of all my nutrition programs.

Why Track Your Glucose? Your blood sugar levels are one of the most telling indicators of your health. Glucose impacts your energy, mood, and long-term health. According to Dr. Casey Means, author of Good Energy, tracking glucose levels provides a window into how your body processes food and adapts to lifestyle factors. Here are some of the key benefits:

    • Discover Your Unique Triggers: See which foods cause sudden glucose spikes and crashes, allowing you to make smarter dietary choices.
    • Enhance Energy Levels: Avoid the dreaded energy dips that often follow high-sugar meals.
    • Optimize Your Sleep and Stress Management: Learn how stress and poor sleep impact your glucose levels and overall health.
    • Improve Athletic Performance: Align your meals and snacks with your workouts for peak performance.
    • Reduce Long-Term Health Risks: Gain insights to help prevent conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and inflammation-driven illnesses.

How Does It Work? When you enroll in one of my nutrition programs, you’ll wear a CGM for two weeks. This small, painless device tracks your glucose levels 24/7. The data collected allows us to:

    • Create a personalized nutrition plan based on your body’s unique responses.
    • Address specific health concerns, such as fatigue, cravings, or weight gain.
    • Build sustainable habits that promote long-term wellness.

Real-Life Transformations: Clients who’ve used CGMs report feeling more energized, focused, and in control of their health. One client shared, “I had no idea how much my stress and poor sleep were affecting my blood sugar until I started using a CGM. Now, I’m sleeping better, eating smarter, and feeling better than I have in years.”

Take the Next Step: Are you ready to unlock your health potential? With a CGM included in all 2025 programs, there’s never been a better time to invest in yourself.

Sign Up Today!

Together, we’ll use cutting-edge tools and a personalized approach to help you achieve your health goals. Don’t wait—your body is talking. It’s time to listen.

Understanding Your Body Like Never Before with InBody

Traditional scales provide limited information, often leading to misconceptions about one’s health status. The InBody machine offers a comprehensive analysis, allowing you to delve deeper into your body’s metrics and make informed decisions tailored to your individual needs.

What is the InBody Machine?

The InBody machine is a state-of-the-art device that performs a non-invasive, quick, and accurate body composition analysis. Unlike traditional methods, it provides a detailed breakdown of your weight in terms of muscle, fat, and water. This comprehensive insight enables you to understand your body beyond the numbers on a scale.

Key Metrics Analyzed by the InBody Machine:

Visceral Fat Levels:
Visceral fat is the fat stored deep inside your abdomen, surrounding vital organs like your liver and intestines. Unlike subcutaneous fat under your skin, visceral fat can increase your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other health problems. Reducing it can lead to better energy levels, improved metabolism, and overall better health.

Body Fat Percentage:
Get an accurate measurement of how much of your body is composed of fat versus lean mass.

Body Mass Index (BMI):
Understand where you stand in terms of weight and height ratios for overall health assessment.

Muscle vs. Fat Balance:
Ensure you’re building lean muscle and shedding unwanted fat.

Metabolic Rate:
Your metabolic rate is the number of calories your body burns at rest. Understanding this helps you create a nutrition and fitness plan that aligns with your body’s needs, making it easier to reach your health goals efficiently.

Segmental Analysis:
See how muscle and fat are distributed across your body for targeted improvements.

Fast Results. Long Term Benefits

Tracking your progress every 1-3 months allows you to:

    • Measure real results beyond the scale
    • Stay motivated with data-driven progress
    • Adjust nutrition and fitness plans effectively
    • Personalized Plans Tailored Just for You

At Sprout Nourishment, we take your InBody results to the next level by curating personalized nutrition and fitness plans that align with your specific body composition. Whether your goal is to build muscle, reduce body fat, or improve metabolic health, our expert team will guide you through actionable steps that support sustainable and effective changes.

Why Personalized Plans Matter:

    • Targeted recommendations based on your body’s unique needs
    • Sustainable changes that align with your health goals
    • Expert guidance to optimize your fitness and nutrition journey
    • Maximize Your Health Potential

Utilizing your InBody results with the support of Sprout Nourishment ensures you’re making the right changes to optimize your health and reach your goals effectively. With data-driven insights, we empower you to take control of your well-being in a way that’s tailored just for you.

Ready to take the next step? Book your InBody session today!

Note: Individuals with pacemakers or other electronic medical devices, as well as those who are pregnant, should consult with a healthcare professional before using the InBody machine.

The Seed Oil Invasion: What You Don’t Know is Harming You

Seed oils

Did you know the majority of the oils used in your favorite salad dressing, chips, and even your “healthy” veggie stir-fry could be wreaking havoc on your health? Seed oils, lurking in almost everything from grocery aisles to your go-to take-out spot, are often touted as heart-healthy—but the truth might shock you.

What Are Seed Oils?

Seed oils, like canola, soybean, sunflower, corn, and safflower oil, are extracted from seeds through industrial processes that often involve high heat, chemicals, and deodorization. These oils are cheap, have a long shelf life, and are found in nearly every processed food. But here’s the kicker—they’re not as “natural” as they sound.

The Health Fallout of Seed Oils

    1. High in Omega-6 Fatty Acids: While our bodies need a balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, seed oils tip the scale drastically toward Omega-6. This imbalance promotes inflammation, which is linked to chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer.
    2. Oxidation and Toxic Byproducts: These oils are prone to oxidation, especially when heated, leading to the creation of harmful compounds like aldehydes. These toxins can damage cells, increase inflammation, and accelerate aging.
    3. Hidden in Plain Sight: Even foods marketed as “healthy” or “organic” often use seed oils because they are cost-effective.

Seed Oils in Everyday Life

    • Groceries: Pre-packaged snacks, “healthy” granola bars, plant-based butter substitutes, and even baby food.
    • Restaurants: Most restaurants, even upscale ones, use seed oils for cooking because of their low cost and neutral flavor. Your favorite fried foods, dressings, and even grilled dishes are likely doused in these oils.
    • Take-Out: Fast food and even high-end take-out (Chipotle, Qdoba, Mod Market, etc.) rely on these oils, from Burritos, French fries to pizza crusts.

Why Should You Care?

The long-term effects of consuming seed oils are staggering. From increased risk of chronic diseases to potential impacts on your mood and brain health, these oils are more harmful than we’ve been led to believe. Cutting them out or reducing your intake can lead to better energy levels, clearer skin, and reduced inflammation.

What Can You Do?

    • Read Labels: Learn to identify seed oils on ingredient lists. Look out for names like “vegetable oil, canola, safflower, soy, sunflower, corn oils” or specific seed oils.
    • Cook at Home: Use healthier fats like olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil.
    • Ask Questions: When dining out, ask restaurants what oils they use and opt for dishes that require minimal added fat.
    • Join the Movement: My nutrition programs can help you transition away from harmful seed oils and improve your health with simple, effective strategies.

Seed oils might be everywhere, but you don’t have to let them control your health. Armed with the right knowledge, you can make better choices for yourself and your family. Ready to take the first step? Let me guide you!

Ready to Clean Up Your Diet?

If you’re serious about removing hidden health saboteurs like seed oils from your diet, I can help. Sign up for my personalized nutrition coaching and start your journey to better health today.

Eating and Living for Longevity: Food and Lifestyle Choices for a Healthier, Longer Life

Who doesn’t want to live a long, vibrant life? While genetics play a role, your daily choices—what you eat, how you move, and how you manage stress—can have a profound impact on your lifespan and quality of life. Functional nutrition focuses on addressing your body’s unique needs to optimize health and longevity. Here’s how you can start today.

1. Build a Longevity-Focused Plate

Your diet is one of the most powerful tools for longevity. A nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory approach can help protect your cells, reduce disease risk, and maintain energy levels.

    • Prioritize Whole Foods: Fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
    • Incorporate Healthy Fats: Foods like avocados, olive oil, and fatty fish (rich in omega-3s) support brain health and reduce inflammation.
    • Choose Lean Proteins: Opt for high-quality proteins like free-range chicken, wild-caught salmon, and plant-based options like lentils or quinoa.
    • Limit Processed Foods: Minimize sugar and ultra-processed items that lead to oxidative stress and inflammation.

What NOT to Do for Longevity

    • Rely on Processed Foods: High-sugar, high-sodium, and trans-fat-laden items accelerate aging by increasing inflammation and oxidative stress.
    • Skip Vegetables: A lack of nutrient-dense plant foods deprives your body of critical antioxidants and fiber.
    • Ignore Portion Sizes: Overeating—even healthy foods—can contribute to metabolic stress and weight gain.

2. Stay Active, Stay Young

Regular physical activity not only keeps your body strong but also slows down the aging process.

    • Incorporate Strength Training: Building muscle supports metabolism and protects bone density.
    • Prioritize Movement Throughout the Day: Short walks or standing stretches reduce the negative effects of prolonged sitting.
    • Find Joy in Activity: Choose something you love, whether it’s yoga, cycling, or hiking.

What NOT to Do for Longevity

    • Be Sedentary: Sitting for long periods increases the risk of chronic diseases and weakens muscles.
    • Overtrain: Extreme exercise without adequate recovery can lead to injuries, stress, and faster cellular aging.
    • Skip Rest Days: Recovery is just as important as the workout itself.

3. Master Stress Management

Chronic stress accelerates aging by impacting hormonal balance and causing inflammation.

    • Practice Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation, breathwork, or journaling can reduce cortisol levels.
    • Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of restorative sleep to allow your body to repair and recharge.
    • Create Connection: Strong relationships and social bonds have been shown to increase lifespan.

What NOT to Do for Longevity

    • Ignore Sleep Hygiene: Poor sleep quality accelerates aging and weakens immunity.
    • Over-consume Caffeine: Too much coffee can disrupt sleep and increase anxiety.
    • Neglect Stress Relief: Chronic stress without management strategies can lead to burnout and systemic inflammation.

Take Control of Your Longevity Today

Want a personalized approach to living a longer, healthier life? Schedule a consultation to explore functional nutrition strategies tailored to your unique needs. It’s never too late to invest in your future self.

The Science of Functional Gut Health: How the Gut-Brain Connection Impacts Your Body and Mind

Your gut is more than a digestive powerhouse—it’s a control center for your entire body. The gut-brain connection, often referred to as the gut-brain axis, links the health of your digestive system with your mental and physical performance. For athletes, high achievers, and wellness-focused individuals, optimizing this axis can unlock untapped potential.

What Is the Gut-Brain Axis?

The gut and brain are connected by the vagus nerve, a superhighway of communication that relays signals in both directions. Your gut microbiome (the trillions of bacteria living in your digestive system) produces neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, which influence mood, energy, and even decision-making.

When your gut is imbalanced, this communication breaks down. Dysbiosis (an imbalance of gut bacteria) can lead to increased inflammation, impaired nutrient absorption, and overproduction of stress hormones. Symptoms might include fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, and even digestive discomfort, all of which directly impact your performance and quality of life.

Functional Nutrition for Gut-Brain Optimization

Functional gut health isn’t just about avoiding junk food—it’s about nourishing your microbiome. Here’s how:

1. Feed Your Gut Bacteria

    • Prebiotics like leeks, Jerusalem artichokes, and asparagus act as fuel for beneficial bacteria.
    • Probiotics in foods like miso, sauerkraut, and kefir introduce healthy bacteria to your system.

2. Support Your Gut Lining

    • Bone broth and collagen supplements contain nutrients that strengthen the gut barrier, reducing inflammation and “leaky gut.”

3. Reduce Gut Stressors

    • Processed foods, sugar, and alcohol disrupt the gut-brain axis. Swap these for whole, nutrient-dense options like omega-3-rich fish, nuts, and seeds.

Why It Matters for Athletes and High Performers

For athletes, an optimized gut-brain connection means faster recovery, better hydration, and improved focus during competition. For busy professionals, it means sharper decision-making and reduced burnout.

Ready to Take Control of Your Gut-Brain Health?
Schedule a consultation to learn how functional nutrition can transform your energy, focus, and performance from the inside out.

The Benefits of a Flexitarian Diet: Balance for Better Health

If you’re looking for a way to eat healthier without cutting out entire food groups, the flexitarian diet might be perfect for you. This approach emphasizes plant-based meals while allowing for occasional high-quality animal proteins. Here are some of the top benefits of a flexitarian lifestyle:

1. Improved Heart Health

Eating a variety of plant-based foods, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, has been linked to lower cholesterol and reduced blood pressure. Including lean animal proteins, such as chicken or fish, ensures you get enough essential amino acids to support heart and muscle health.

2. Balanced Nutrition for Muscle and Energy

Unlike strict vegan or vegetarian diets, the flexitarian approach allows for a well-rounded intake of nutrients. Animal proteins are rich in vitamin B12, iron, and omega-3s, which are critical for energy production, while plant foods provide fiber and antioxidants to keep your digestive system in check.

3. Sustainable Eating

Reducing but not eliminating animal products can lower your carbon footprint. The flexibility to eat more plant foods while still incorporating animal proteins allows for a more sustainable, eco-friendly diet.

Common Questions Answered:

  • How often should I eat animal protein? It varies based on your needs, but many flexitarians eat animal proteins a few times a week.
  • What are some meal ideas? Think grain bowls topped with roasted vegetables and grilled chicken, or hearty salads with legumes and a side of wild-caught salmon.

Ready to embrace a sustainable, balanced way of eating? Schedule a consultation to customize your flexitarian plan!

What Are Functional Beverages and How Can They Benefit You?

smart beverages

Functional beverages are more than just refreshing drinks; they’re designed to deliver health benefits. Here are specific examples of popular types and what they can do for you:

1. Hydration and Electrolyte Drinks

    • Coconut Water: A natural source of electrolytes like potassium, it’s perfect for post-workout hydration.

    • Nuun Hydration Tablets: These dissolve in water and are great for replenishing minerals during or after exercise.

    • BodyArmor Lyte: A sports drink that offers low sugar and added vitamins.

These drinks prevent dehydration and muscle cramps, especially important at high altitudes or during heavy physical activity.

2. Probiotic and Prebiotic Beverages

    • Kombucha: A fizzy, fermented tea loaded with probiotics that promote a healthy gut.

    • Kefir: A tangy, yogurt-like drink high in probiotics and essential nutrients like calcium and protein.

    • Prebiotic Tonics: Drinks like Olipop or Poppi contain prebiotics that feed your gut’s beneficial bacteria and improve digestion.

These beverages can help balance your gut microbiome, leading to better digestion and overall wellness.

3. Adaptogen Teas and Elixirs

    • Ashwagandha Tea: Known for reducing stress and anxiety, this tea helps balance cortisol levels.

    • Reishi Mushroom Coffee: A calming alternative to traditional coffee that supports the immune system and reduces fatigue.

    • Tulsi (Holy Basil) Tea: An adaptogenic herb that helps your body adapt to stress and promotes mental clarity.

Functional beverages are popular because they offer targeted health benefits in a convenient form. Whether you’re looking to improve hydration, support gut health, or manage stress, these drinks provide easy solutions.

Ready to Optimize Your Health?

Discover how the right drinks can transform your energy levels, digestion, and overall wellness. Book a personalized nutrition consultation today and learn which functional beverages fit your lifestyle and goals best. Let’s create a plan to boost your health from the inside out!