The Naturopathic Clinic

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The Naturopathic Clinic

Jenny Barker is a Qualified Naturopath. The Naturopathic Clinic is based in Hamilton New Zealand.

Here at The Naturopathic Clinic in Hamilton, we strongly believe that the natural remedies and treatments we offer will assist you on your path to wellness. As a naturopath, we offer a wide array of natural treatments and offer guidance in helping find the ones that are right for you. We will work with you to create an individualised program specific to your needs and circumstances. We are committed to helping you achieve your health goals to enable you to live a life of wellness and happiness.

19/11/2025

I wanted to share this story again as it demonstrates the power of food:

Here’s a great example of thinking you are eating healthy but ending up feeling worse!

I had a day when I indulged in what seemed like a pretty innocent series of food across the day: roasted kumara, potatoes, a square of dark chocolate, a dollop of peanut butter, and a slice of gluten-free buckwheat bread. It all sounded healthy, right?

But here's the catch – every single item in that meal was high in oxalates. And for me, that seemingly wholesome combination triggered a whirlwind of pain. My left kidney and rib area went haywire, leaving me in excruciating pain for three agonising days. I couldn't even sleep on my side! 😩

This experience was a stark reminder of how the wrong healthy foods can become toxic to our bodies. I can personally attest to the power of food and the pain it can cause if we're not mindful of our unique sensitivities.

But here's the twist: I discovered I had extreme sensitivity to high oxalate foods during lockdown. I decided to make Dr. Libby's Raw Beetroot Cake (which I figured out later is very high in oxalates), and my body rebelled. My right knee swelled up, my kidneys and lower back ached, and I even experienced very painful muscle spasms in my back. It was a wake-up call.

The journey to optimal health is a continuous learning process, and this chapter has taught me that it's okay to embrace the reality of our dietary needs. 💪🌱

11/11/2025

Hydration Hack: It's Not Just About Water! 💧

Let's talk about something crucial today – hydration and the often-overlooked role of electrolytes.

Did you know that you can be sipping water all day and still end up dehydrated? It's true! Water alone may not do the trick if your body's electrolyte balance is out of whack. Electrolytes are like the unsung heroes that help your body absorb and retain that precious H2O.

These specific minerals maintain the fluid balance inside and outside your cells. And you can lose them in various ways – through sweating, alcohol, coffee, high blood sugar, tired adrenals, or consuming high-histamine foods. 😓

As a naturopath, I often recommend supplementing with electrolytes to ensure your body stays in tip-top shape. But here's the catch – not all supplements are created equal! Quality matters.

In my clinic, we ensure we use high quality electrolytes that don’t contain sugar, colours or artificial sweeteners. Using high quality supplements can make a world of difference to your results.

So, why should you care about your electrolyte balance? Because symptoms like fatigue, headaches, heart issues, frequent urination, constipation, and muscle weakness might just be your body's way of telling you it needs some electrolyte TLC.

Heading into summer, it is even more crucial to stay hydrated and stay healthy! 🌞

04/11/2025

Most people haven’t heard of oxalates and I hadn’t either until a few years ago. But when I figured out high oxalate foods were contributing to my pain issues, lowering my oxalate foods in my diet was a game changer.

So, are you ready for a beginner's guide to understanding and addressing oxalate overload? Let's dive in! 📚

What Are Oxalates? Oxalates are crystals that naturally occur in plant foods. They can become problematic when they accumulate in your body, potentially causing a range of symptoms.

Common Symptoms: Oxalate overload can manifest in various ways, including joint pain, swelling, digestive troubles, kidney stones, bladder issues, disrupted sleep, and hormone imbalances. The severity varies, depending on your body's ability to eliminate oxalates.

The Gradual Approach: It's important to note that managing oxalate overload isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Rapidly cutting out high-oxalate foods can sometimes lead to your body dumping oxalates too quickly, which can be uncomfortable. It's a gradual process of reducing your intake. For example, that beloved clean, green spinach smoothie might need a rethink.

Nutrition and Gut Health: Nutrient deficiencies and gut bacteria that produce excess oxalates can contribute to the problem. This is where the journey to understanding oxalate overload really does begins.

Meat and Dairy: Interestingly, meat and dairy are low in oxalates, which may come as a relief for some. This highlights the importance of a balanced diet.
Oxalates are not widely talked about, and there's a lot to learn. In a world full of dietary trends and fads, it's crucial to stay informed about the foods you consume so I hope this has been useful today!

A fantastic resource I recommend is the Facebook group called "Trying Low Oxalates." You'll find a wealth of information and support there.

28/10/2025

Today, let's explore a fundamental aspect of our health journey that often goes unnoticed – HOW we eat. Because it’s just as vital as WHAT we eat!

Have you ever heard of mindful eating? 🤔 It's a powerful practice that can transform your relationship with food and your overall well-being.

So, what is mindful eating all about?
It's about being truly present when you're enjoying your meal.

Here are some mindful eating tips to embrace:

😋 Chew with Care: Your body produces digestive enzymes, but they need your help!

😋 Chew your food properly, allowing those enzymes to work their magic.

😋 Unplug and Unwind: Step away from your computer or phone during mealtime. Give your meal your undivided attention.

😋 Smell Your Food!: Take a moment to smell the aroma of your meal. It's not just about taste; it's a multi-sensory experience.

😋 Put the Utensils Down: Try putting your knife and fork down between bites. It encourages a slower, more mindful pace of eating.

Remember, how you eat can profoundly impact your digestion and overall well-being. 🥦

22/10/2025

Did you know your skin is often a reflection of what’s happening in your gut?

It’s true — our gut is home to a whole community of bacteria, and when the balance is off, it can show up on our skin.

Acne isn’t just a surface issue; it’s often driven by inflammation. When our immune system gets out of balance, or when “unfriendly” bacteria burrow into the intestinal lining, that inflammation can manifest as breakouts.

Processed foods, refined oils, and too much sugar can all fuel this fire 🔥 — and things like stress or certain medications can make it worse by upsetting our gut microbiome.

So what can we do to support clearer, calmer skin from the inside out?

Here are some key steps I often recommend:

• Reduce inflammation — take a look at your diet and stress levels. Are there foods or habits that could be adding fuel to the fire?

• Support your gut — include probiotics and a balanced, whole-food diet to help your microbiome thrive. 🌿

• Identify food intolerances — uncover what might be triggering inflammation for you.

• Love your liver — support your body’s natural detox pathways so it can clear out what it doesn’t need.

• Supplement Nutrient Deficiencies — make sure you’re getting enough minerals and nutrients for glowing skin health. 🥦

Acne can really affect your confidence, but once we calm the inflammation, address food intolerances, and support your gut and liver, your skin can start to heal and glow again. ✨

Find out how we can help support you to improve your skin health. Give us a call on 022 017 6033 or book online https://www.thenaturopathicclinic.co.nz/

14/10/2025

Today, I want to shine a spotlight on something that often goes unnoticed but plays a massive role in our overall well-being – MAGNESIUM! 💪

Did you know that magnesium deficiency affects over 90% of people, and it can wreak havoc on your health in more ways than one? Let's dive into why this mineral is an absolutely crucial!

Sleep Soundly: If you've been tossing and turning at night, magnesium might just be your secret weapon for a restful sleep. It's a game-changer when it comes to improving sleep quality. 😴

Mighty Muscles: Magnesium is your muscles' best friend. It helps prevent muscle twitches and leg cramps. 🤸‍♀️

Happy Bowels: When it comes to regular bowel movements and healthy digestion, magnesium is a must. Say goodbye to constipation!

Boost Your Mood: Ever wondered why your mood sometimes takes a nosedive? Magnesium is involved in the production of 50 different brain chemicals.

Heart Health: Your heart loves magnesium and is essential for proper heart function. 🫀

Women's Wellness: Magnesium can be a game-changer for dreaded period cramps.
But here's the catch – we lose magnesium easily, whether through sweating, stress, or simply urinating it out. That's why almost all my clients are on a magnesium supplement, along with zinc.

08/10/2025

😊 I was chatting with a friend of a friend the other day and they asked me, “So what does a Naturopath actually do?” It made me realise that’s probably something a lot of people wonder!

As a naturopath, I look at your whole picture — diet, supplements, stress, hormones, sleep, energy — everything that contributes to how you feel each day. 💕

Rather than just treating symptoms, I work with you to find and support the root cause. Nature has some wonderful ways to help you feel your best — from food and herbs to simple lifestyle shifts that can make such a difference. 🤗

I see people for all sorts of things — hormone or thyroid imbalances, fatigue, gut issues, skin problems, sleep struggles, and more. If you’ve been feeling like something’s off and want a more natural approach to your health, it might be time for us to chat.

You can book an online 1:1 consultation with me through my website or give us a call on 022 017 6033.

👉 https://www.thenaturopathicclinic.co.nz/

Your health truly is your greatest asset — and I’d love to help you feel your best.

Jenny💕

06/10/2025

I had a wonderful weekend in Wellington with my sister, niece and some great friends. We went to the Wearable Arts which is the most amazing show🥇. I think it's my third or fourth time going.
It's not just about the amazing creative costumes but it's an international level show with acrobatics, amazing lighting, music and dancers. Sometimes there is so much going on it's hard to know where to look 👀
If you haven't been it's a must do. And while you're in Wellington make sure you visit Smiths Grocer to try their famous ginger crunch, it is divine 😋

30/09/2025

⭐️ Struggling with energy, hormones, or memory? Deep sleep plays a big role in all of these⭐️

Deep sleep is the most restorative and rejuvenating stage of your sleep cycle. It’s when your brain produces slow delta waves, supporting physical repair, immune system strength, memory consolidation, and hormonal balance. In other words— deep sleep is when your body does its best healing for your health 🙂

If you’ve been craving more deep, restful sleep, here are my top tips for creating good sleep hygiene:

• No eating 3 hours before bed
• No devices at least an hour before bed
• Dim the lights in your lounge before heading to bed
• Make your bedroom as dark as possible
• Keep wifi out of the bedroom – put your phone on flight mode or charge it outside your room
• Relax before bed – take a bath, meditate, practice relaxation breathing, or sip on chamomile tea
• Try cutting out coffee for a week to see if your sleep improves – even morning coffee can interfere with sleep!
• Take magnesium before bed to help your body relax – most people are low in magnesium

💤 Wishing you a great asleep

23/09/2025

Let's chat about why a Liver and Gallbladder flush can be such a game-changer for your health!

Your liver and gallbladder are hard-working organs, they diligently process toxins, manage chemical compounds, and address the aftermath of processed foods. In addition, they actively participate in the synthesis of cholesterol, which has far-reaching implications for our metabolic processes.

If you have been experiencing any of the following symptoms, they may be linked to poor liver or gallbladder function:
• Pain between shoulder blades
• Nausea after eating fatty food
• Pain or discomfort in the right abdominal area
• Gallstones (or a family history of gallstones or gallbladder removal)
• Liver blood test results outside a healthy range
• Light or clay-coloured stools
• Headaches over your eyes
• Bitter taste in your mouth especially after meals

If you recognise any of the above symptoms, then maybe it’s time to seek advice. Considering a liver and gallbladder flush under the guidance of a naturopath brings several key advantages.

Naturopaths are trained professionals who specialise in holistic health. By conducting a thorough assessment of your health history, current condition, and potential imbalances, we are able to personalise the approach to ensure that the liver and gallbladder flush is tailored to your specific needs.

The flush can vary in intensity and approach and is designed as a safe and effective protocol that aligns with your individual health status, taking into account any underlying conditions or medications you might be taking.

If you want to find out more, book a one-on-one consultation, call us or book online ph 0220176033 or online https://www.thenaturopathicclinic.co.nz/

16/09/2025

Okay, I’m back on my zinc rant (again!) — but with good reason. Zinc is one of those minerals that so many people are low in, and the effects can show up everywhere in your health. Zinc is needed for hundreds of processes in the body and is one of the most common deficiencies I see in clinic.

For your gut, zinc is especially vital:
• It keeps the mucosal lining of your gut wall strong
• It helps you make digestive enzymes so you can break down food properly
• It supports stomach acid production to digest protein

When your stomach isn’t breaking down food well, it creates problems further down the digestive tract, often leading to food reactions and gut issues.

While zinc-rich foods like lamb, beef, pumpkin seeds, spinach, cashews, cocoa and chickpeas are fantastic, most people still benefit from a supplement.

Low zinc can show up as hair loss, bloating, acne, eczema, brittle nails, poor immunity, delayed healing, hormone imbalances, poor memory, joint pain and even hay fever. No matter your age, it’s worth checking in on your zinc levels!

10/09/2025

I want to take a moment to have you think about your journey ahead...

Do you see yourself embracing your golden years with vitality, staying active, and relishing your retirement?

Or do you worry about hospital visits, aching bodies, and limitations holding you back? 🏥 Your choices today are so important as they have an impact on your future health.

Because we need to remember, health isn't built overnight – it's a journey that unfolds over time. Conditions like cancer, arthritis, and heart disease develop gradually, often long before they make their presence felt. That's why proactive steps now are like planting seeds for a thriving future.

What steps can you take to prioritise your health now?
1. Prioritise Regular Check-ups: Don't wait for signs to appear. Regular health check-ups help catch potential issues in their early stages.
2. Nourish Your Plate: Opt for whole foods rich in nutrients. Think vibrant veggies, wholesome grains, lean proteins, and good fats. Your plate is your palette for longevity!
3. Move It, Love It: Engage in activities you enjoy. Whether it's yoga, dancing, walking, or hitting the gym – movement keeps your body agile and spirit youthful.
4. Stress Less, Breathe More: Chronic stress takes a toll. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or spending time in nature.
5. Find your Balance: Balance is key in all aspects of life. From work to play, from sleep to socialising – find your equilibrium.
6. Supplement a healthy diet with nutrients: Explore natural remedies like herbal teas, adaptogens, and supplements that can support your overall well-being.

Address

103 Thomas Road, Rototuna
Hamilton
3210

Telephone

+64220176033

Website

http://thenaturopathicclinic.co.nz/

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