Elevate Wellness MD

11/28/2024

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Here is my organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, rainbow colors, whole food holiday plate:

❤️Spiced potato bites
❤️Turkey
❤️Cranberry salsa
❤️Cranberry sauce
❤️Balsamic glazed butternut
❤️Beet greens with roasted garlic
❤️Roast cauliflower with lemon tahini roast garlic dressing
❤️Brussels sprouts
❤️Pomegranate arils
❤️ Roast carrots (not pictured)
❤️ LOVE LOVE LOVE ....ALWAYS the #1 ingredient!

Dessert is butternut custard. [I MAY have had one for breakfast dessert.] 😋

What's on your menu?

01/25/2024

There are far too many FALSE health claims about “detoxes” out there, especially this time of year. Falling prey to them can not only waste your time and money but harm your health!

Watch this short video to sort myth from fact.

01/24/2024

Supporting someone who wants to prioritize their health is important, and the way you communicate can play a significant role in their journey.

Perhaps you’ve started making positive changes in your own life only to feel like the people around you didn’t want you to succeed.

Sadly, I hear from a lot of women that family & friends can contribute to derailed efforts. 😟 After years of seeing this happen, I’ve come to believe that some of our family and friends *subconsciously* [and sometimes consciously ] attempt to derail us because…ahem…if we do better, that might make them look bad or feel bad about themselves. Have any of you seen this happen?

🙌 My hope is that this list of helpful things to say will bring awareness and a shift towards supporting others towards our best health.

Remember, supporting someone in their health journey involves empathy, encouragement, and a positive approach. Everyone's path is unique, and focusing on the individual's effort and progress, rather than making comparisons or imposing unrealistic expectations, can be more motivating and helpful in the long run. ❤️

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I have the honor of offering support to my patients. Do you feel like support is the missing link in making progress? If so, book a free discovery call to learn about the next steps! ☎

01/18/2024

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE FAQ: here are 3 common questions I am asked!

❓Q: What is the difference between functional medicine and conventional medicine, and how can it benefit me?
✅ A: Functional medicine takes a personalized and integrative approach, seeking to identify and address the root causes of health issues rather than just treating symptoms. It emphasizes the doctor-patient partnership, lifestyle factors, and a comprehensive understanding of your health history to promote overall well-being.

❓Q: Can functional medicine help with chronic conditions that haven't responded well to conventional treatments?
✅ A: Yes, functional medicine is often sought after for chronic conditions not adequately addressed by conventional medicine alone. By exploring the interconnectedness of various bodily systems, I aim to uncover and address the underlying factors contributing to chronic illnesses, providing more comprehensive and sustainable solutions.

❓Q: How does functional medicine approach diagnostic testing, and what types of tests are commonly used?
✅ A: Functional medicine utilizes a range of diagnostic tests, including comprehensive blood panels, genetic testing, gut microbiome analysis, and hormone assessments. Mine is a personalized approach with emphasis on identifying imbalances at the functional level rather than solely relying on traditional disease-oriented diagnostic criteria and treatments.

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☎️Are you ready to get the support you deserve for your symptoms? Sign up for a free discovery call to learn more about how functional medicine can help you!

01/09/2024

Let’s talk about the 3 phases of liver detoxification. ⤵

Liver detoxification, often referred to as biotransformation, occurs in three distinct phases, collectively known as the hepatic detoxification system.

Understanding this process can empower you to make lifestyle choices that support liver health and reduce exposure to toxins!

☑️ Phase I (Functionalization):
▪️ Process: In this phase, lipophilic (fat-soluble) substances are metabolized through reactions such as oxidation, reduction, and hydrolysis.
▪️ Role: Converts toxins into intermediate metabolites, often more reactive than the original compounds, preparing them for conjugation in Phase II.

☑️ Phase II (Conjugation):
▪️ Processes: Conjugation reactions involve the addition of water-soluble molecules (e.g., glucuronic acid, sulfate, glutathione) to the intermediate metabolites from Phase I.
▪️ Role: Increases the water solubility of metabolites, making them less toxic and facilitating their excretion from the body.

☑️ Phase III (Transport):
▪️ Processes: Transport proteins, including ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, move the conjugated metabolites and other toxins out of liver cells.
▪️ Role: Transports the water-soluble, conjugated metabolites into bile for elimination through f***s or into the bloodstream for elimination through urine.

These three phases are interconnected and collectively ensure the efficient detoxification and elimination of various substances. The liver coordinates these processes, aiming to protect the body from potentially harmful compounds.

Were you aware of these three processes? Comment YES or NO below!

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01/08/2024

01/07/2024

I jest, I jest...😂🤣😂

Did you make New Year's resolutions? Comment YES or NO below!

01/05/2024

8 of the most COMMON root causes of a sluggish liver:

1️⃣ Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: NAFLD [new name is MASLD] is characterized by the accumulation of fat in liver cells, leading to liver dysfunction. It is often associated with metabolic syndrome, obesity, insulin resistance, and abnormal lipid metabolism.

2️⃣Alcohol-Related Liver Disease: Chronic alcohol consumption causes inflammation, oxidative stress, and damage to liver cells. This can lead to conditions such as alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic hepatitis, and eventually cirrhosis.

3️⃣Hepatitis: Various viral infections cause inflammation and damage to liver cells. Chronic hepatitis can lead to a sluggish liver and worse.

4️⃣Medications & Toxins: Many meds, toxins, & environmental pollutants can harm the liver.

5️⃣Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Syndrome: Insulin resistance interferes with normal glucose and lipid metabolism in liver cells, leading to fatty liver.

6️⃣Genetic Factors: Certain genetic variations may affect the metabolism of fats, toxins, or other substances processed by the liver, leading to impaired liver function.

7️⃣Autoimmune Diseases: There are several autoimmune diseases affecting the liver, including autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, & lupus.

8️⃣Poor Diet & Nutrition: Processed foods, sugars, & unhealthy fats contribute to the development of fatty liver disease. Inadequate intake of essential nutrients required for liver function may also impact its performance.

As a Functional Medicine MD, I address the root causes of sluggish liver function. This involves a comprehensive evaluation of your medical history, lifestyle, and environmental exposures along with a thorough medical exam.

Which of these root causes do you think is behind your symptoms? Let me know in the comments 👇

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01/02/2024

As we head into 2024, let's shift our perspective from fleeting resolutions to the enduring power of consistent, healthy habits. 💪

✅ Start Small: Begin with manageable steps that align with your goals. Whether it's adding a nutritious snack, taking short walks, or practicing mindfulness, these small habits lay the foundation for lasting change.

✅ Consistency Over Intensity: Consistency is the key to success. Develop habits that you can integrate seamlessly into your routine, creating a sustainable foundation for long-term health.

✅ Build a Support System: Share your journey with friends, family, or a supportive community. Encourage each other, celebrate victories, and navigate challenges together. A strong support system makes the wellness journey more enjoyable and achievable!

✅ Aim For Mindful Living: Incorporate mindfulness into your daily life. Whether it's savoring a meal, taking moments of deep breaths, or finding joy in the present, mindfulness enhances your overall well-being.

✅ Nutrition: Focus on wholesome, nourishing foods that fuel your body. Small changes in your diet, like incorporating more vegetables or staying hydrated, can have a profound impact on your health.

✅ Move with Purpose: Physical activity doesn't have to be a daunting task. Find activities you enjoy, whether it's dancing, hiking, or simply taking the stairs. Make movement a joyful part of your routine.

✅ Reflect and Adjust: Regularly assess your habits and progress. Reflect on what's working and adjust as needed throughout the year. This adaptability ensures your wellness journey evolves with you.

This New Year, let's shift our focus from resolutions to RESILIENT HABITS! Embrace the power of consistency, small steps, and the commitment to your well-being. Here's to a year-round journey of health, joy, and fulfillment! ⭐️

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12/31/2023

😂🤣😂

My NYE plans MAY involve a snuggie and a book. What about you?

Let me know your NYE plans in the comments!

12/27/2023

Ladies, it’s almost New Year… let’s stop wasting time! 🕑

As we stand on the brink of a new year, there’s no better time to look back and reflect on how our health journey has been going for the last 12 months.

❓Are you still procrastinating making changes to your diet?
❓Did you give up your New Year's resolution of exercising?
❓Maybe you didn’t get around to seeking out professional help for your symptoms?

No matter how your year has gone, let's make a collective decision in the here and now to stop wasting precious time and prioritize our health. 🤜🤛

Every passing moment is an opportunity to transform, to heal, and to embrace a healthier version of ourselves. Your health is not a destination; it's a lifelong journey, and functional medicine invites you to be an active participant.

👩‍⚕️Functional Medicine Doctors recognize that symptoms are merely signals, and by understanding the root cause, we pave the way for true healing. We consider the interconnectedness of your body, aiming to restore balance and vitality from the inside out.

✅ It’s time to understand what’s going on inside your body;
✅ Your risks for chronic illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more;
✅ Environmental influences;
✅ And optimize your lifestyle choices!

It’s time to nourish your body with whole foods and personalized nutrition. Let exercise become a prescription for wellness, and mindfulness practices become essential tools for cultivating a resilient mind!

❤Comment YES below if you want these things in your life!

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🙋‍♀️Ready to start your journey to healing? Book a free discovery call to make 2024 your year of health. Link in bio.

12/25/2023

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

🌟 Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or another beautiful tradition, this time of year is a canvas for creating cherished memories with friends and family.

🌟 Let's pause to appreciate the beauty of being present. Whether it's sharing a meal, a hug, or a heartwarming conversation, remember that the gift of presence is the most treasured of all.

🌟 As we approach the end of the year, I invite you to reflect on your journey and rejoice in the lessons learned and the connections made.

To each and every one of you, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Thank you for being a part of this wonderful community. May your holidays be filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of shared moments.

Wishing you a happy, healthy celebration!

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