The Gentle Naturopath

19/08/2025

30/06/2025

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A new study has found that a low omega-3 level was an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), and that increasing the intake of EPA and DHA might reduce the risk of developing atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD). In fact, the omega-3 Index (the relative levels of EPA and DHA determined in red blood cell membranes), smoking and cholesterol were found to be equally strong CVD risk factors.

In the study, researchers determined the omega-3 index of 2,550 participants of the Framingham Offspring cohort who were free of ASCVD at baseline, and the follow-up period lasted around 10 years on average.

The omega-3 index contributed significantly to the prediction of the future risk of CVD events, to roughly the same extent as diabetes, high cholesterol and smoking. Because the association was independent of other factors, the findings suggest that the health effects of omega-3 operate via different mechanisms than cholesterol or blood pressure, according to the authors.

Specifically, the study examined the extent to which the omega-3 index (O3I) improved the predictive capability of the Pooled Cohort Equation (PCE). The PCE is a tool used to estimate a person's 10-year risk of developing ASCVD, which includes nonfatal myocardial infarction (heart attack), coronary heart disease death, and nonfatal or fatal stroke. The 9 inputs normally used for the equation are age, s*x, race, total and HDL cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, treatment for hypertension, diabetes and smoking status.

In the study cohort the predictive value for 10-year ASCVD events using the PCE was 0.689. It increased to 0.698 (P < 0.05) upon the addition of the O3I. The predictive weightings in the basic model were 0.028 (blood pressure, HDL-C), 0.020 (diabetes), 0.012 (O3I), 0.006 (total cholesterol), and 0.004 (smoking); all but smoking were significant (P < 0.05). Also, the O3I significantly (P < 0.05) improved the predictive ability of each of these risk factors when analysed separately.

“If people are concerned about correcting their high cholesterol level to reduce their risk for CVD, then they should be equally concerned about correcting their Omega-3 Index,” said William S. Harris, PhD, senior investigator of this study, and President of the Fatty Acid Research Institute (FARI). “People can test their Omega-3 Index and if it is sub-optimal, they can take steps to correct; and those steps are very safe, cheap and simple: consume more oily fish on a regular basis and/or take omega-3 dietary supplements.”

For more information see: https://www.nutraceuticalsworld.com/breaking-news/omega-3-index-smoking-cholesterol-found-to-be-equally-strong-cvd-risk-factors-study/?utm_campaign=NUT%20eNewsletter&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_Fq_nFWWd1r7P0-Nd_flOh5c_yYmDUshSLOp3Y5cjXhQpWoZq0I0sg9YSpjqKNF-bXRMlx7JKmkQl2UA8bUM1Csk4CkQ&_hsmi=353948583&utm_content=353948583&utm_source=hs_email

and

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40074603/

11/06/2025

During pregnancy, fetal cells migrate out of the womb and into a mother’s heart, liver, lung, kidney, brain, and more. They could shape moms’ health for a lifetime, Katherine J. Wu reported in 2024:⁠ https://theatln.tc/qozjIdje
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The presence of these cells, known as microchimerism, is thought to affect every person who has carried an embryo, even if briefly, and anyone who has ever inhabited a womb. The cross-generational transfers are bidirectional—as fetal cells cross the placenta into maternal tissues, a small number of maternal cells migrate into fetal tissues, where they can persist into adulthood. ⁠
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Genetic swaps, then, might occur several times throughout a life. Some researchers believe that people may be miniature mosaics of many of their relatives, via chains of pregnancy: their older siblings, perhaps, or their maternal grandmother, or any aunts and uncles their grandmother might have conceived before their mother was born. “It’s like you carry your entire family inside of you,” Francisco Úbeda de Torres, an evolutionary biologist at the Royal Holloway University of London, told Wu.⁠
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Some scientists have argued that cells so sparse and inconsistent couldn’t possibly have meaningful effects. Even among microchimerism researchers, hypotheses about what these cells do—if anything at all—remain “highly controversial,” Sing Sing Way, an immunologist and a pediatrician at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, told Wu. But many experts contend that microchimeric cells aren’t just passive passengers. They are genetically distinct entities. And they might hold sway over many aspects of health: our susceptibility to infectious or autoimmune disease, the success of pregnancies, maybe even behavior. ⁠
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If these cells turn out to be as important as some scientists believe they are, they might be one of the most underappreciated architects of human life, Wu writes.

09/06/2025

Coaches that advertise pregnancy rates. It’s honestly crazy to me claiming you’ll get pregnant “within 3 cycles”, or promoting a live birth rate percentage😳. I think its unethical, and quite frankly, doubtful…

June is Worldwide Infertility Month, and I am all about being transparent with my clients. Navigating a fertility journey is full of confusion and overwhelm, and my strength is looking deeper into the root cause, NOT to make you false promises.

Unexplained infertility? More like, UNEXPLORED infertility. Taking your complete health history ensures I can look over your case with a fine tooth comb, and only order tests, and make recommendations based on what’s going on with your unique self (or selves as a couple).

What CAN I promise you as your Naturopath if I don’t claim pregnancy rates?
✅ That I won’t give up until we find the cause of your unexplained infertility (no stone left unturned!).
✅ That I recommend changes that are achievable for you.
✅ That I’ll keep you accountable to implement your recommended changes.
✅ That you will feel so supported on your journey.

I hope your Monday is off to a gentle start.
Corinne xo

28/05/2025

Herby photo dump - (swipe to the end for a moreish sliced cake pic 🤤)

Spent my Sunday at the QLD Herbs annual event 🌿

1. Tussie Mussie - a Victorian era mini bouquet (I love!) 💐
2. 70s lounge room replica
3. Sponge cake by decorated with edible flowers 🌸🍓🌼
4. Hanging herbs, a traditional method of drying.
5. 70s kitchen replica - (honestly WANT!)
🧡☮️
6. A-grade coffee (because what other standard is there)
7. The cut cake - truly 10/10 for the balance of flavours. Actual soul food! 🍰

I hope you enjoy the pics as much as I do ☺️
Corinne xo

17/05/2025

A new genetic study confirms the link between endometriosis and autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and celiac disease. This backs up a clinical association that’s been observed for years.

Link: https://www.ox.ac.uk/news/2025-04-28-new-research-reveals-shared-genetic-link-between-endometriosis-and-immune-conditions

🎙️ And stay tuned for my next podcast episode, where I'll discuss the different types of endometriosis and why that matters. (Teaser: Some endo lesions are NOT the explanation for symptoms.)

12/05/2025

Just keep trying and it will happen!”🤔

If you’ve ever heard that from your doctor, here’s why it might not be the full picture:

That advice often overlooks undiagnosed endometriosis, male factor infertility and hormone dysregulation due to chronic stress.

It’s not just about losing weight, eating clean and taking a prenatal vitamin. To get pregnant sooner, you need to address the root causes.

🌟 You deserve a personalised and holistic plan that works for YOU.

Comment RESET to learn more about my 1:1 personalised fertility program now ⬇️
Corinne xo

             

11/05/2025

Sending love to all mothers…

🌸 The aspiring mothers

🪻Mother figures in all forms

🌼 Mothers who have lost children

🌷Those who have lost their own mother

Mother’s Day can be a really tough day for some.

Be gentle with yourself, and remember even miracles can take a little time ❤️
Corinne xo

23/04/2025

26/03/2025

Truth 💣—This can affect implantation outcomes, read why below! ⬇️
(& save this or fwd to someone who needs to read it)

Low v@ginal lactobacillus is associated with bacterial v@ginosis, implantation issues and recurrent implantation failure (RIF).

Something you may not know, is that our hormones influence lactobacillus too. It is well known that lactobacillus levels decrease in menopause for example, and the dance between oestrogen and lactobacillus are at play.

When your v@gina is rich in Lactobacillus bacteria it is acidic and this protects you from infection. The translocation of these microbes to the endometrium (inner uterus) is not well studied, however there are definite links. Your gut health affects this too.

✨Did you know there are strategies we can use both orally AND locally to improve v@ginal health and enhance conception?✨

If you are TTC and have a history of v@ginal infections, I would advise a v@ginal and/or gut microbiome panel. An EMMA endometrial test might be something you can discuss with your FS too.

V@ginal health 101-
✔️ Avoid intimate hygiene washes
✔️ Use pure cotton tampons and pads
✔️Use natural pH balanced lubricants
✔️Take probiotics following/during antibiotic use*
*(prescribed by your practitioner)
✔️pH tracking if you’re having ongoing issues
✔️Opt for breathable 100% cotton or bamboo underwear
✔️ Discard old underwear, and dry yours in the sun or dryer (especially if you’re prone to infections)

I know this can be a sensitive topic, so feel free to DM me if you have a question 🙋🏻‍♀️

26/03/2025

🚨 QLD food recall

*** Additional products have been added as at 4.05pm, 27 March 2025. Please refer to the information in the comments. ***

⚠️ Food recall notice ⚠️

ALDI Stores Pty Ltd and Woolworths are conducting a recall of the below products due to Microbial (STEC) contamination. The products have been available for sale online and in store at Woolworths Supermarkets and Woolworths Metro in QLD and ALDI Stores in QLD.

Fresh Salad Co Baby Spinach 120g
Date Marking: Use By 28 MAR

Fresh Salad Co Fresh & Fast Stir Fry 400g
Date Marking: Use By 27 MAR

Fresh Salad Co Baby Spinach & Rocket 120g
Date Marking: Use By 27 MAR

Fresh Salad Co Baby Spinach 280g
Date Marking: Use By 30 MAR

Woolworths Mixed Leaf 120g
Use By: 26 MAR

Woolworths Cook Stir Fry Kit with Teriyaki Sauce 400g
Use By: 26 MAR

Woolworths Cook Stir Fry Mix Rainbow Vegetables 400g
Use By: 26 MAR

Woolworths Kale & Spinach 300g
Use By: 26 MAR

Woolworths Spinach and Rocket 120g
Use By: 26 MAR

Woolworths Spinach and Rocket 60g
Use By: 26 MAR

Woolworths Spinach 60g
Use By: 26 MAR

Consumers should not eat these products and return to the place of purchase for a full refund. Any consumers concerned about their health should seek medical advice.

👉 Learn more here: https://www.foodstandards.gov.au/food-recalls/recall-alert

15/03/2025

If you’re new here, hello and a warm welcome! 🙋‍♀️ I’m Corinne, degree-qualified Naturopath and Mama to 7-year-old twin girls (plus 2 cats!).

Being degree-qualified means I’ve done extra training and I practice from an evidence-based lens.

🤓 Fun fact about me: I’ve been a Naturopath/Nutritionist since 2011!

Here’s a little snippet of what I’ve been managing in clinic lately…

🦋 Hashimoto’s disease
🥚 Donor egg preparation
🤰 TTC after a loss
🫄 Pregnant with gestational diabetes
👶 TTC with Endometriosis
💉 IVF Egg retrieval prep
💉 IVF Frozen embryo transfer prep
🌱 Recurrent Implantation Failure

To see how I can help you, I offer free 15 minute Intro Calls for new clients curious about how Naturopathy & Nutrition can support your health and fertility 🤗

Would love to have a chat with you and find out where you’re at. I look forward to meeting you!

The Gentle Naturopath Clinic, for your Fertility & holistic health needs 🥑