by Feeling Great | Hormones
Hormones and Weight Gain After 40: Take Back Control
Hormones and Weight Gain – Don’t Settle for Fat, Frumpy, and Grumpy
Recently, I came across a social media comment that truly shocked me about Hormones and Weight Gain:
“I think for women between 40 and 55, we’ve given up on losing weight because of metabolism and hormone changes through menopause…”
Wow… really? I was horrified by the collective acceptance of that mindset. It immediately made me picture someone lying on train tracks, accepting their fate instead of taking action.
Let’s be clear—there’s no need to surrender to weight gain, exhaustion, or mood swings.
The good news? It’s all fixable. I help women rebalance their hormones every single day. With a background in pharmacy and naturopathy, plus 25 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand that hormonal imbalances can be corrected.
If you feel tired, sluggish, or frustrated with stubborn weight gain, your hormones may just need a reset.
Understanding Hormones and Their Impact on Weight
Hormones control everything from metabolism to mood. When they become unbalanced, weight gain and fatigue can follow.
Signs Your Hormones Are Out of Balance
- Thyroid Issues – Fatigue, constipation, thinning hair, stubborn weight gain, depression, and brain fog.
- Adrenal Dysfunction – Trouble sleeping, anxiety, belly fat, sugar cravings, irritability, and night sweats.
- Insulin Resistance – Expanding waistline, brain fog, dry mouth, fluctuating energy levels.
- Sex Hormone Imbalances – Low libido, irregular cycles, hot flashes, PMS, mood swings, and fibroids.
Since hormones interact in complex feedback loops, imbalances rarely exist in isolation. That’s why comprehensive testing is key.
Why Blood Tests Don’t Always Show the Full Picture
Standard hormone blood tests only measure total hormones, not the active (unbound) hormones that influence how you feel.
That’s why salivary hormone testing is a far better option for assessing adrenal and sex hormones.
It’s affordable and a powerful step toward feeling and looking your best.
Everyday Factors That Disrupt Hormones
Modern life is full of hidden hormone disruptors. Here’s what could be messing with yours:
- Toxic Chemicals – Found in food, water, air, plastics, household cleaners, and cosmetics. These mimic hormones and interfere with natural balance. Switch to low-tox products for better hormonal health.
- Too Much Sugar & Refined Carbs – Cakes, biscuits, and processed foods disrupt blood sugar levels and alter hormone activity.
- Not Enough Healthy Fats – Avocados, nuts, seeds, coconut oil, and fish support hormone production. Avoid low-fat, processed diet products.
- Poor Gut Health – Your gut microbiome influences hormone regulation. Eat fiber-rich foods, fermented options like sauerkraut and kefir, and reduce inflammatory foods.
- Lack of Sleep – Poor sleep increases cortisol and disrupts overall hormone balance. Addressing sleep issues can dramatically improve how you feel.
- Too Many Stimulants – Caffeine and alcohol provide temporary relief but deplete essential nutrients and stress the adrenals.
Change Your Lifestyle, Change Your Hormones
“After 40, the rules of self-care change. It’s time to re-evaluate your habits.” – The Daily Mail
So, let’s ditch the idea that weight gain and exhaustion are inevitable.
You have two choices:
- Give up and accept feeling sluggish.
- Take action and regain your energy, vitality, and confidence.
You only get one body in this lifetime—so take care of it. For more hormones information? Try and read Finding Your Way Out of Hormonal Chaos and share us your thoughts!
CLICK HERE to book your hormone testing and start feeling incredible again.
With love,
Julie xx
by Feeling Great | Hormones, Mental Wellbeing
11 Simple Ways to De-Stress and Balance Your Hormones
Why Stress Is the Biggest Hormone Disruptor
De-Stress and Balance Your Hormones from making simple yet powerful daily changes.
“Stress is the trash of modern life – we all generate it, but if you don’t dispose of it properly, it will pile up and overtake your life.” – Terri Guillemets
Long ago, stress meant running from predators to stay alive. Today, it comes from work, relationships, financial pressures, and even the thoughts we replay in our minds.
At my naturopathic clinic in Mt. Martha, I see firsthand how chronic stress affects hormones. It disrupts the thyroid, blood sugar, adrenals, and sex hormones, leading to fatigue, brain fog, mood swings, and weight gain.
But here’s the truth: you can’t medicate your way out of an unhealthy lifestyle. Real balance comes from making simple yet powerful daily changes.
Let’s dive into 11 easy ways to reduce stress, reset your hormones, and reclaim your health.
1. Find the Magic in Everyday Life
Most of us rush through to-do lists without ever stopping to ask: Does this actually make me happy?
Take a step back. Notice the small joyful moments—a laugh with a friend, a beautiful sunrise, or a quiet cup of tea.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I spending time on things that bring real fulfillment?
- What daily moments make me feel truly happy?
2. Prioritize What Truly Matters
We can’t do everything at once, so focus on what counts.
Instead of just tackling your schedule, schedule your priorities. Family, health, and peace of mind should come before never-ending tasks.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I prioritizing my health and relationships over busyness?
- What’s one thing I can let go of today?
3. Declutter for a Clearer Mind
Excess clutter—both physical and mental—adds stress. Simplify your surroundings and free up your energy.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Do I own things that no longer serve me?
- What thoughts or habits can I let go of?
4. Plan Backward to Move Forward
Visualize your dream life, then work backward to create an action plan. Clarity comes from knowing where you’re headed.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- What future do I want to create?
- What steps will take me there?
5. Release the Past and Move Forward
Holding onto regrets, disappointments, or old wounds drains your energy. Let go and make room for new opportunities.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- How is the past limiting my future?
- What can I release to move forward?
6. Take Control of Your Choices
You can’t always control what happens, but you can control how you respond. Every moment, you have the power to choose peace over stress.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- What situation am I allowing to control me?
- How can I shift my response to regain my power?
7. Attract Positivity with the Right Mindset
What you focus on, grows. If you dwell on negativity, you invite more of it. Instead, focus on what you want to attract.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Are my thoughts lifting me up or dragging me down?
- How can I shift my focus to invite better energy?
8. Get Outside and Reconnect with Nature
Fresh air, trees, and sunshine are natural stress relievers. Even a short walk can calm your mind and boost your mood.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I spending enough time outside?
- How can I bring more nature into my routine?
9. Stop Waiting for “Someday”—Live Now
“If only I had more time, more money, or a different situation…” These thoughts keep you stuck. Happiness is in the present moment.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I delaying happiness, waiting for the “perfect” time?
- What can I appreciate right now?
10. Discover Your Purpose and Live with Intention
A clear sense of purpose creates direction and fulfillment. Define what lights you up and start living it every day.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- What activities make me feel alive?
- How can I bring more purpose into my daily life?
11. Slow Down to Find Balance
In a fast-paced world, slowing down can actually help you move forward with more clarity and ease.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I rushing through life without being present?
- What’s one thing I can do today to slow down and enjoy the moment?
Need Help Balancing Your Hormones?
Struggling with fatigue, mood swings, stress, or weight gain? It could be your hormones! Let’s get to the root cause and create a plan to restore balance.
CLICK HERE to book a consultation and start feeling better now!
Your health is worth it. Let’s reset your hormones and bring back your energy!
by Feeling Great | Body
How to Stop Feeling Hungry All the Time – 8 Steps to Reset Your Appetite
Struggling With Constant Hunger?
Are all the leftover holiday treats calling your name? Do you find yourself hungry and snacking all day, especially in the evenings or during work breaks?
Even though you’re eating more than usual, your stomach still growls, your waistband feels tighter, and you’re noticing extra weight around your thighs and belly. It’s like your food cravings are stuck on high, and cutting back feels impossible.
If you’re trying to regain control, don’t worry—I’ve been there too! And yes, you can have too much organic dark chocolate.
So, how do you reset your appetite after indulging in festive treats?
8 Steps to Control Your Hunger and Reset Your Appetite
1. Maximize Hydration
Hunger is often disguised as thirst. Drink at least 2 liters of water daily, more if you’re active or in hot weather. Sparkling water and caffeine-free herbal teas also count.
2. Increase Fruits and Vegetables
Start your day with a green smoothie to boost fiber and nutrients. More salads, stir-fries, and soups help crowd out unhealthy cravings.
3. Clear Out the Junk
Remove all leftover holiday treats. If it’s in your house, you’ll eat it. Donate extras to friends or coworkers—it’s a win-win!
4. Curb Sweet Cravings
Before reaching for chocolate, try:
- Eating an orange (repeat if needed)
- Drinking two glasses of water
- Making a healthy hot chocolate or raw chocolate mousse
5. Get Moving
Burn off extra calories with:
- Fast walking (20+ minutes)
- Pilates or yoga (15+ minutes)
- HIIT workouts or circuit training
6. Eat Until 80% Full
Stay satisfied longer with healthy fats and proteins like avocado, nuts, seeds, fish, and eggs. Avoid low-calorie meals that leave you hungry soon after.
7. Make Smart Swaps
- Craving sweets? Swap for fruit or carrots.
- Want baked goods? Try hummus with veggie sticks.
- Missing bread? Wrap lean protein in lettuce leaves.
8. Prioritize Sleep
Lack of sleep increases cravings. Aim for 8 hours per night and follow natural rhythms by sleeping before 10 PM.
Reset Your Appetite and Feel Your Best
The first few days are tough, but your taste buds adjust quickly. Soon, you’ll stop asking, “How do I stop feeling hungry all the time?”—because you’ll have it under control!
Need more guidance? CLICK HERE to book a consult and get back on track.
You’ve got this!
How to Stop Feeling Hungry all The Time – If you like it, share it.
by Feeling Great | Energy/Fatigue
Natural Energy Boosters: 7 Hacks to Recharge Without Caffeine, Sugar, or Drugs
Feeling Drained? Try These Natural Energy Boosters!
Do you wake up feeling sluggish? Is your energy all over the place—one minute you’re fine, the next you’re craving sugar, coffee, or junk food? Maybe you’re dragging through the day, needing a stiff drink at night just to unwind. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
The truth is, quick fixes like energy drinks, caffeine, and sugar only give you temporary boosts, leaving you even more exhausted later. Instead of reaching for artificial stimulants, try these seven powerful natural energy boosters to help you feel refreshed, focused, and full of life—without the crash!
1. Start With the End in Mind
The first step to lasting energy is having a clear goal. Ask yourself:
- How do I want to feel every day?
- What does my best self look like?
- What daily habits will get me there?
Visualizing your future self motivates you to take action. Find an old photo where you looked and felt great, or imagine the healthiest, happiest version of yourself. What would they be doing differently? It’s time to align your choices with that vision!
2. Hydrate With Water & Herbal Teas
Dehydration is a major energy zapper—it slows down your body, clouds your mind, and even triggers food cravings. To keep energy high:
- Drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily
- Swap caffeine for herbal teas like peppermint, ginger, or chamomile
- Start your morning with a big glass of lemon water to flush out toxins
Proper hydration helps your body function at its best, keeping you alert, refreshed, and ready to go.
3. Get Enough Sleep & Move Your Body
When you’re sleep-deprived, your body craves sugar, caffeine, and junk food for quick energy. Instead of falling into that trap, prioritize:
- 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night
- Daily movement, even if it’s a short walk
- Strength training like Pilates, yoga, or circuit workouts to build muscle
Muscle mass is like your energy battery—the more you have, the more energy your body can produce. So, if you’re feeling drained, it might be time to increase your battery size!
4. Manage Stress & Recharge Your Mind
Stress drains energy faster than anything. If you’re constantly overwhelmed, it’s time to recharge by:
- Doing activities that nourish your mind and body
- Shifting your mindset—stress isn’t just about life’s events, but how you perceive them
- Showing yourself love instead of waiting for others to do it
Taking time to relax and reset helps you restore energy naturally and feel more in control of your life.
5. Eat More Nutrient-Rich Whole Foods
Food is fuel. If you’re running on processed, nutrient-poor meals, your energy will crash. Instead, aim for at least 50% of your diet to come from real, whole foods like:
- Vegetables & fruits for vitamins and minerals
- Nuts & seeds for healthy fats and protein
- Whole grains, quality meat, and seafood for sustained energy
Cravings often signal nutrient deficiencies. When your body gets the right fuel, energy levels naturally increase—no stimulants required!
6. Check Your Nutrients, Cell Structure & Muscle Mass
Even if you eat well and exercise, hidden deficiencies can drain your energy. Your body needs the right tools to function properly—without them, it’s like trying to use a wheelbarrow with a flat tire!
- Get your nutrients, muscle mass, and cell health tested
- Address any deficiencies in magnesium, iron, iodine, or zinc
- Upgrade your body’s internal tools for effortless energy
Consult today and stop struggling with low energy!
7. Detox & Clean Out Toxins
Your body works hard to eliminate toxins from food, pollution, and daily life. But when toxins build up, they block the absorption of essential nutrients like magnesium, selenium, and calcium—causing fatigue, brain fog, and sluggishness.
A gentle detox can help by:
- Clearing out preservatives, pesticides, and harmful chemicals
- Improving digestion and nutrient absorption
- Helping you lose weight naturally
A proper detox will double your energy, clear your mind, and help you feel lighter. Ready for a reset? Book now for a FREE personalized detox plan with your consult!
Final Thoughts: You Deserve to Feel Amazing!
You don’t need caffeine, sugar, or artificial stimulants to feel energized. By making small daily changes, you can naturally boost your energy, improve your mood, and enjoy a vibrant, healthy life.
You can read How to Refresh Your Mind and Body or Benefits of Sports Drinks – Useful or Just a Sugar Hit? and If you found these tips helpful, share them with someone who needs an energy boost!
Want to feel amazing? Book Here for your consultation! You deserve to feel fantastic every day!
by Feeling Great | Hormones
Treat Low Libido Naturally
Has Your Libido Taken a Nose Dive? Here’s Why & How to Fix It
Has your sex drive dropped dramatically? You’re not alone. Your libido is like a health indicator—it reflects your overall physical, mental, and hormonal balance.
Many people struggle with low sex drive, along with fatigue, poor sleep, bloating, and skin issues. These aren’t random symptoms; they’re signs that your hormones are out of sync.
Before reaching for a quick fix, let’s explore the
four key causes of low libido and six natural ways to bring it back.
4 Causes of Low Sex Drive
1. High or Low Cortisol
Chronic stress disrupts cortisol, your body’s main stress hormone. When it’s out of balance, it robs other sex hormones, reducing libido. Signs include:
- Feeling exhausted but wired
- Sugar cravings
- Difficulty sleeping
- Weight gain around the waist
2. Imbalanced Estrogen
Estrogen and progesterone work together to regulate your cycle and mood. When estrogen is too high or too low, symptoms may include:
- Bloating and fluid retention
- Mood swings and PMS
- Irregular or heavy periods
- Vaginal dryness
3. Low Thyroid Function
Your thyroid controls energy, mood, and metabolism. When sluggish, symptoms include:
- Fatigue, especially in the morning
- Unexplained weight gain
- Cold hands and feet
- Brain fog and low mood
4. High or Low Testosterone
Testosterone plays a role in sex drive, energy, and confidence. If too high, you may experience acne, facial hair growth, or skin tags. If too low, signs include:
- Fatigue and depression
- Low muscle tone
- Reduced libido
6 Natural Ways to Boost Low Libido
1. Add Maca to Your Diet
Maca root is a powerful adaptogen that naturally increases libido, reduces anxiety, and supports hormone balance. Add 1 tablespoon to your daily smoothie.
2. Support Your Adrenal Glands
Chronic stress depletes DHEA, a key hormone for testosterone production. Prioritize self-care—meditate, get enough sleep, and take breaks to recharge.
3. Bring Pleasure Into Everyday Life
Enjoying simple pleasures daily—like listening to music, taking a bath, or getting a massage—helps shift your brain into a pleasure-receptive state, making intimacy more enjoyable.
4. Explore What Works for You
Spice things up by trying new things! Read articles, watch videos, or take an intimacy workshop to rediscover what excites you.
5. Eat for Hormone Balance
To clear excess estrogen, support your liver and gut by:
- Reducing alcohol intake
- Drinking dandelion root tea
- Eating fiber-rich vegetables
- Including healthy fats like avocados and nuts
6. See a Health Professional
If your libido has disappeared, your hormones may be imbalanced. Get tested and create a personalized plan to restore your energy, mood, and sex drive.
Ready to Feel Like Yourself Again?
If your sex drive is low, don’t ignore it—it’s your body’s way of asking for help. Book a consultation today to get your hormones back on track and start feeling amazing again!
by Feeling Great | Energy/Fatigue
Benefits of Sports Drinks – Useful or Just a Sugar Hit?
Are Sports Drinks Really Necessary?
Sports drinks are everywhere. But have you ever wondered why so many kids sip on them even when they’re not playing sports? These beverages were originally created for elite athletes who sweat excessively and need rapid electrolyte replenishment. Yet, today, they’ve become a multi-billion-dollar industry, marketed as a healthier alternative to soda.
The reality? Most people don’t need them. A simple glass of water and a piece of fruit provides more benefits than a sugar-loaded sports drink.
The Truth About Sports Drinks
1. Do You Really Lose That Many Electrolytes?
Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium are lost in sweat. However, unless you’re an endurance athlete—such as a marathon runner or triathlete—you likely don’t need extra electrolytes. Your diet already provides enough.
2. Sugar and Chemicals in Every Bottle
Many sports drinks contain as much sugar as soda. Plus, some bottles hold two or more servings, meaning the sugar content is often double what’s listed on the label. Even “healthier” options, like Vitamin water, are filled with artificial additives and synthetic vitamins.
3. What the Experts Say
The American Academy of Pediatrics warns that kids and teens should avoid sports drinks altogether. Water should always be the main source of hydration.
4. A Better Alternative
A banana or an orange paired with water offers more potassium, vitamins, and natural energy than any commercial drink. Unlike sports drinks, fruit releases natural sugars slowly, preventing the blood sugar spikes that lead to crashes.
5. The Environmental Cost
Beyond health concerns, plastic bottles are a major environmental issue. It takes 450 years for one plastic drink bottle to break down. Choosing a stainless steel bottle is a small step with a big impact.
Make a Smarter Choice
Next time you reach for a sports drink, ask yourself: Do I really need this? For most people, water and fruit are the best options. If you care about your health—and the planet—it’s time to rethink your drink.
Here’s information about 10 Tips To Get More Energy Naturally or read this Natural Energy Boosters and If you found this helpful, share it with others!
CLICK HERE to book a consultation with me to a healthy future!
