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Kidney Coach, Melbourne (2025)

01/12/2025

🔥 Did you know women produce testosterone too, and it’s absolutely essential for our health?

Hi, I’m Fiona Chin, a fully qualified naturopath, and in this reel, I’m breaking down one of the most misunderstood hormones in the wellness world: testosterone.

In this clip from my full YouTube podcast, my honored guest Lindsey Zirker (MS, RD, CSR, LD), a highly respected renal dietitian helping clients across Utah & Idaho, explains how testosterone is produced differently in men and women… and why that matters more than most people realize.

Understanding where testosterone comes from helps us better identify symptoms, address imbalances, and support overall vitality, especially for women and those living with chronic kidney disease.

In the full episode, we explore:
✨ What testosterone actually is
✨ Why women need healthy testosterone levels
✨ Symptoms & causes of low testosterone
✨ Testosterone & CKD: what’s the link?
✨ All about TRT (risks, benefits & options)
✨ Natural ways to support testosterone levels

👇👇👇 Watch the full video here:
🎥 https://youtu.be/0fpyIS_40pY

🎁 Here’s a 10% OFF Gift Code for you!
Sign up here 👉 https://manage.kmail-lists.com/subscriptions/subscribe?a=KdbBq7&g=QfWJsW

What’s one thing you’ve always wondered about hormones or testosterone? Share below, I love hearing your questions! 💬

01/12/2025

😴🔥 More Reasons Testosterone Levels Are Dropping

The decline in testosterone isn’t just about age, our modern lifestyle is playing a huge role. Here are more hidden contributors you may not realise impact hormone health 👇

🧬 Additional Causes of Low Testosterone

😴 Poor Sleep & Sleep Apnoea
Deep sleep is when the body produces the most testosterone.
Chronic sleep deprivation or untreated sleep apnoea can significantly disrupt hormone production.

⚡ Chronic Stress & High Cortisol
When cortisol is high, the body reduces testosterone output. Stress steals from your hormone bank.

🥗 Under-Eating or Low-Fat Diets
Testosterone is made from cholesterol.
Very low-calorie or low-fat diets starve the hormone system and may reduce testosterone levels.

🍩 Poor Diet & Nutrient Deficiencies
Processed foods and high sugar intake fuel insulin resistance and weight gain, two major testosterone disruptors.
Low levels of zinc, magnesium, vitamin D, and boron also reduce hormone production.

🧴 Environmental Toxins (Endocrine Disruptors)
Chemicals like BPA, phthalates, parabens, and certain pesticides interfere with hormone signalling.
They can mimic estrogen, block testosterone, and impact reproductive health.

💬 In the next post, we’ll cover how to naturally support and boost testosterone levels (with and without TRT).

Share this if someone you know needs it 🔄

30/11/2025

⬇️ Why Are Testosterone Levels Declining?

Did you know men today have 20–30% lower testosterone than men the same age just a few decades ago? 😳
On average, testosterone drops by 1% per year after age 30, but this decline is now happening younger and faster than ever before.

This isn’t just ageing; something in our modern world is accelerating the drop.

Here are some of the key drivers behind declining testosterone levels 👇

🧠 Top Reasons Testosterone Levels Are Falling

📍 Increased Testing & Awareness
We now test hormones more often, so we’re detecting what was previously missed, but this alone doesn’t explain the rapid decline.

⚖️ Rising Obesity
Excess body fat (especially around the belly) increases aromatase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into estrogen, lowering T levels.

🛋️ Sedentary Lifestyle
Less movement = reduced muscle mass, slower metabolism, poorer mitochondrial function, all of which negatively affect testosterone.

🔥 Chronic Inflammation
Inflammation increases aromatase and damages Leydig cells (the testosterone-producing cells in the te**es).
It also blocks the enzymes needed to turn cholesterol into testosterone.

🩺 Chronic Illness & Stress on the Body
When the body is in survival mode, it prioritises healing and essential functions, not muscle building, fertility, or hormone production.

💬 In the next post: Natural ways to protect and boost testosterone levels (with or without TRT).

Save this post to re-read later 🔖

Crisis

29/11/2025

🔥 Symptoms of Low Testosterone

Low testosterone (Low T) can affect both men and women, and it often goes unnoticed because symptoms are attributed to stress, ageing, or burnout. If testosterone drops below optimal levels, you may notice changes in energy, mood, strength, metabolism, and s*xual health.

Here are some of the most common signs of low testosterone:

⚠️ Common Symptoms of Low T

1. Reduced libido – A noticeable drop in s*x drive or s*xual interest.

2. Erectile dysfunction – Difficulty achieving or maintaining an er****on (in men).

3. Fatigue & low energy – Persistent tiredness, even after rest or sleep.

4. Mood changes – Low mood, irritability, mood swings, or reduced motivation.

5. Loss of muscle mass & strength – Difficulty building or maintaining muscle; often paired with increased body fat.

6. Slow recovery from exercise – Longer recovery time after training or physical exertion.

7. Hair thinning – Reduced facial, scalp, or body hair.

8. Decreased bone density – Greater risk of osteoporosis or fractures over time.

9. Brain fog & cognitive changes – Poor memory, reduced concentration, slower mental processing.

If you’re noticing several of these symptoms, it may be worth speaking with your healthcare practitioner and having your hormone levels tested. Early support can make a huge difference in energy, vitality, metabolism, and overall well-being. 💪✨

28/11/2025

🧬 Can Testosterone Replacement Improve Kidney Function?

Exploring TRT & CKD 💪🩺

Testosterone isn’t just about libido or muscle mass; it plays a key role in whole-body health, including metabolism, inflammation, cardiovascular function, and potentially kidney health. Research is now exploring whether Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) may support kidney function in those with low testosterone levels.

Before we dive deeper into TRT and CKD, let’s look at what testosterone actually does in the body.

🔹 What Is Testosterone & Where Does It Come From?

Testosterone is produced in:
• ✅ Testicles (in men)
• ✅ Ovaries (in women)
• ✅ Adrenal glands (via DHEA → testosterone + estrogen)
• ✅ Peripheral tissues (additional conversion in women)

It is the body’s primary androgen, responsible for the development and maintenance of many essential functions, not just reproductive health.

🧠 Key Roles of Testosterone in the Body

Testosterone influences:

• Sexual development & characteristics (puberty, reproductive health)
• Muscle strength, muscle mass & bone density
• Libido & s***m production
• Mood, motivation & mental wellbeing
• Fat distribution & metabolic function
• Cognitive performance
• Red blood cell production
• Insulin sensitivity & metabolic health

In short, testosterone impacts energy, vitality, metabolism, confidence, strength, and overall quality of life.

📍 In my next post, I’ll share the most common signs of low testosterone, especially in people with chronic illness, inflammation, CKD, or adrenal dysfunction.

Save this post if you're interested in the link between TRT & kidney health! 🔖

27/11/2025

🧡 Happy Thanksgiving from all of us to you and your loved ones! 🦃

May your day be filled with gratitude, warmth, connection, and joy, and perhaps a few extra moments of rest and reflection as well. 🍂✨

Take a moment to appreciate your body, your health, and the people who make life meaningful. Every heartbeat and breath is something to be thankful for. 💛

27/11/2025

✨ Did you know testosterone isn’t just a “male hormone”?✨

As a fully qualified naturopath, I’m diving deep into the fascinating role of testosterone in both men and women.

In this reel, I share insights on why it matters for women’s health, the symptoms of low testosterone, and natural ways to boost it.

I’m honored to be joined by Lindsey Zirker (MS, RD, CSR, LD), a highly respected renal dietitian serving clients in Utah and Idaho, dedicated to advancing nutrition research and improving renal health.

Together, we explore topics like:
- What is testosterone really?
- Causes of low testosterone
- The link between testosterone & CKD
- TRT explained clearly
- Why testosterone drops in chronic kidney disease

👉 Watch the full Podcast here: https://youtu.be/0fpyIS_40pY

🎁 Here is a 10% OFF Gift Code for you: Sign up here → https://manage.kmail-lists.com/subscriptions/subscribe?a=KdbBq7&g=QfWJsW

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Drop a comment below, and let me know what resonated most with you!

26/11/2025

🍂 A Kidney-Friendly Thanksgiving Plate 🦃

Thanksgiving is all about food, family, and gratitude and with a little planning, you can enjoy every bite while keeping your kidneys happy and healthy! 💛

Here are a few simple tips to make your plate kidney-friendly this holiday:

1️⃣ Turkey time!
Good news - turkey is an excellent protein choice for kidney health. 🦃 go easy on the gravy, which can pack in hidden sodium.

2️⃣ Swap high-potassium sides
Mashed potatoes are classic but high in potassium. Try mashed cauliflower, green beans, or roasted low-potassium veggies like carrots, zucchini, or cabbage instead. 🥕🥦

3️⃣ Tame the salt
Stuffing, canned soups, and store-bought rolls can be sodium traps. Make homemade versions and flavour with herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme for that perfect savoury touch 🌿.

4️⃣ Mind your fluids
Gravy, sauces, and festive drinks can add up quickly. Stick with water or kidney-safe beverages if you’re on fluid restrictions. 💧

✨ Thanksgiving isn’t about giving up your favourite foods, it’s about balance, moderation, and gratitude. With mindful choices, you can celebrate the season, protect your kidneys, and enjoy every moment with loved ones.

Happy Thanksgiving from our team to you! 🧡

25/11/2025

🥕 Vegetable & Tofu Tian 🥒
Some healthy Thanksgiving (or anytime!) recipe inspiration! 🍽️

This colourful, layered casserole is as beautiful as it is delicious, packed with fresh veggies, plant-based protein, and kidney-friendly flavour. 🌿

✨ Ingredients:

1 medium zucchini, sliced ½-inch thick

1 medium yellow squash, sliced ½-inch thick

1 green capsicum (bell pepper), chopped

2 small red onions, sliced ¼-inch thick

2 small celeriac (celery roots), peeled and sliced ½-inch thick

1 small eggplant, unpeeled, sliced ½-inch thick

3 medium tomatoes, sliced

500 g (15 oz) extra-firm tofu, drained and patted dry

Pinch of sea salt + pepper

1 tsp herbes de Provence

½ cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken stock

1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

✨ Directions:
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and lightly oil a baking dish.
2️⃣ Layer veggies and tofu “domino-style.” Season, sprinkle with herbs, pour over stock, and drizzle with olive oil.
3️⃣ Cover with foil and bake 45 min, until tender and most liquid has evaporated. Rest 5 min before serving.

Serves 4 - perfect for a nourishing, kidney-friendly feast 💚

25/11/2025

🚨 Heading in for a scan or imaging soon? Protect your kidneys first!

Hi! I’m Fiona, a fully qualified naturopath, and in this reel, I’m diving into how N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) can protect your kidneys from contrast-induced damage, something many people don’t even realize they need to think about!

I had the pleasure of chatting with Jessianna Saville, a renal nutrition expert obsessed with helping people preserve kidney function through nutrition. Jess has spent years guiding patients away from fear and toward practical strategies that support kidney health naturally.

And in the full podcast, we dive deeper into:
NAC as a protective supplement before imaging procedures
How NAC helps reduce oxidative stress and kidney toxicity
Key takeaways from research on NAC and kidney health
Practical guidance for patients on incorporating NAC

👇👇👇 Watch full video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jN8nrzV45bY

🎁 Here’s a 10% OFF Gift Code for you:
Grab it here: https://manage.kmail-lists.com/subscriptions/subscribe?a=KdbBq7&g=QfWJsW

💬 Have you ever had contrast imaging? Did you know your kidneys could be at risk? Drop a comment below and let’s chat!

24/11/2025

⚠️ Side Effects of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

While Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) can be life-changing for men with CKD and low testosterone, it’s not without potential risks. 💉

This therapy must be approached with careful monitoring and personalized management to ensure safety and long-term benefit.

Let’s look at the key areas to watch 👇

🩸 1️⃣ Erythrocytosis

TRT can increase red blood cell mass leading to high haemoglobin and haematocrit levels.

This thickens the blood, raising the risk of clotting events such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism. 🚨

💧 2️⃣ Fluid Retention

Testosterone may promote water and sodium retention, which can worsen high blood pressure a major concern for kidney function.
For men with CKD, even small changes in fluid balance can have big effects. ⚖️

❤️ 3️⃣ Cardiovascular Considerations

Those with CKD often already face cardiovascular risk.
TRT may amplify these risks by increasing hypertension or dyslipidaemia, which can heighten the chance of heart-related complications.

💡 The takeaway:
TRT can offer real benefits when used wisely improving energy, libido, and wellbeing, but it’s not a DIY therapy.

Always work with a qualified healthcare practitioner who can monitor your bloods, blood pressure, and cardiovascular health throughout treatment.

✨

23/11/2025

⚖️ Things to Know About Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

Testosterone isn’t just about muscle or libido it’s a vital hormone that supports s*xual, reproductive, and metabolic health in both men and women. 🧬

In men, testosterone is mainly produced in the te**es, and in women, it’s made in the ovaries and adrenal glands.

Production is controlled by a fascinating feedback loop between the brain and reproductive organs called the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. 🧠➡️💪

Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ The hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).
2️⃣ This signals the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
3️⃣ These travel through the bloodstream to the te**es or ovaries, stimulating the production of testosterone (or estrogen in women).

🧩 Balance is key.
When testosterone levels rise too high, the brain reduces LH and FSH output helping keep hormones in check.

💉 But here’s the catch:
When testosterone comes from an external source (like TRT), this feedback loop can be disrupted.
Research shows that TRT can suppress LH and FSH, reducing the body’s own testosterone and s***m production over time.

That’s why monitoring luteinizing hormone (LH) levels is so important during TRT they offer valuable insight into how your body is responding.

⚕️ Key takeaway: TRT can be powerful and life-changing when used wisely, but always under professional guidance with regular testing to ensure your hormonal ecosystem stays in balance.

✨

Kidney Coach

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