by Feeling Great | Sep 26, 2023 | Body, Hormones
Hormones and Weight Loss: Why Diets and Exercise Alone May Not Work
Hormones and Weight Loss connection? Struggling to lose weight despite dieting and exercising? You’re not alone. Many women find that traditional weight loss advice—“eat less, move more”—doesn’t deliver results. The missing link? Hormones.
Metabolism, fat storage, and energy levels are all influenced by hormonal balance. When hormones are out of sync, shedding excess weight—especially stubborn belly fat—can feel nearly impossible.
Statistics show that hormonal imbalances contribute to weight gain in 75% of women. While factors like diet and exercise matter, they’re only part of the equation. Understanding how hormones impact metabolism, fat storage, and energy levels is key to achieving long-term weight loss success.
7 Signs Your Hormones Are Affecting Your Weight
- Stubborn belly fat that won’t budge, no matter how much you exercise
- Feeling tired and irritable more often than usual
- Frequent bloating and digestive issues
- Increased stress, even over small things
- Dependence on caffeine to stay energized
- Brain fog or difficulty focusing
- Lower libido and mood fluctuations
How Does It Impact Weight Gain
Hormonal imbalances caused by PCOS, thyroid disorders, menopause, and PMS can contribute to weight gain. However, digestive health, inflammation, and toxins also disrupt hormone levels, slowing metabolism and increasing fat storage.
Additionally, Adiposopathy (Fat Cell Sickness) can cause fat cells to produce hormones that further slow metabolism—even while you sleep!
Genetics, Hormones and Weight Loss Struggles
Some women have a genetic predisposition to hormone-related weight gain. Conditions like MTHFR gene mutations affect metabolism, while food intolerances and environmental toxins trigger inflammation, leading to insulin resistance and slow fat burning.
Understanding your unique hormonal and genetic profile is key to achieving lasting weight loss results.
How to Break the Hormonal Weight Gain Cycle
The good news? Balancing hormones naturally can help you lose weight—without extreme diets or excessive workouts. A personalized plan that includes hormone testing, gut health assessments, and targeted nutrition can restore balance and improve metabolism.
At Feeling Great Wellness Solutions, we take a science-backed approach to weight loss. Through expert testing, monitoring, and tailored solutions, we help women reverse hormonal imbalances and achieve sustainable results—without restrictive dieting.
Ready to Take Control of Your Health?
Break free from hormonal weight gain and start feeling great again. Book a consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you!
Need your hormones checked? Book here.
by Feeling Great | Aug 30, 2023 | Energy/Fatigue
Always Tired? 4 Ways to Go from Exhausted to Energized
It’s Monday morning, and the alarm goes off. How do you feel?
A) Hit snooze, pull the covers over your head, and wish it were the weekend?
B) Jump out of bed feeling refreshed and ready for the day?
If you relate to option A, you’re not alone. Fatigue isn’t always about doing too much. According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, one in five people feel unusually tired at any given time, and women experience it more often than men.
The good news? There’s a way out of exhaustion. I see women reclaim their energy every day. Here’s how one of them, Sonia, transformed her health.
1. Strengthen Your Cells for Lasting Energy
Sonia’s body was struggling because her cell membranes were weak and damaged. These membranes allow nutrients to fuel the body, but when they break down, energy levels plummet.
Common causes include:
- Poor fat digestion or gallbladder issues
- Not eating enough healthy fats
- Protein deficiencies from improper food combinations
The solution? Identify and support digestion, absorption, and nutrition to restore cellular function.
2. Address Adrenal Fatigue & Stop Running on Empty
For years, Sonia had been pushing through exhaustion, relying on caffeine, sugar, and willpower. This only drained her more. Adrenal exhaustion is common in busy women, especially working moms.
Breaking the cycle requires:
- Replenishing missing nutrients
- Supporting the thyroid and gut health
- Finding sustainable ways to boost energy naturally
3. Break Free from Self-Sabotaging Patterns
Sonia had unknowingly developed habits that fueled burnout. To heal, she needed to prioritize herself and adopt energizing habits:
- Eating nourishing foods and staying hydrated
- Moving her body daily
- Laughing, relaxing, and spending time outdoors
- Setting boundaries and allowing time for self-care
4. Heal Your Gut for Better Energy & Mood
After years of digestive struggles, Sonia had been diagnosed with IBS. Testing revealed food intolerances and an imbalance in gut bacteria. Through a 6-week gut repair program, her symptoms disappeared.
As her digestion improved, so did her energy, mood, and focus. No more sugar cravings or sudden crashes—just steady, natural energy.
Are You Ready to Thrive?
Within weeks, Sonia felt like herself again—calm, energized, and empowered. If you’re tired of running on empty, it’s time to stop saying “I’m fine” and start taking action.
You deserve to feel amazing. Let’s make it happen.
For more Adrenal Information, Click Here! If so, BOOK NOW to get started today
Loads of health and happiness, Julie XXX
by Feeling Great | Jun 23, 2023 | Weight Loss
7 Reasons You Can’t Lose Weight No Matter How Hard You Try
Are You Struggling with Weight Loss? Here’s Why
When you step on the scale and see no progress, it can be discouraging. You’ve tried everything—eating less, exercising more, but the results just aren’t showing.
Many people follow the common advice of “80% diet and 20% exercise.” While this isn’t entirely accurate, it’s clear that what you eat plays a significant role in your weight loss journey. If you’re wondering why your weight isn’t budging, here are seven possible reasons.
7 Common Reasons Why Weight Loss Is Stubborn
1. Counting Calories, Not Nutrients
Focusing only on calorie counting might not be the best strategy. Low-fat foods often contain hidden sugars and additives, which your body stores in fat to protect your brain. These additives can slow down your progress.
Solution: Choose nutrient-dense foods that keep you fuller for longer. Opt for veggies, fruits, high-quality proteins (eggs, chicken, tofu), and healthy fats (avocado, nuts, seeds). This will help curb hunger and allow you to eat less.
2. Lack of Essential Nutrients
When you’re low in key nutrients like iron, B12, magnesium, and zinc, your energy levels drop. This often leads to cravings for sugary, high-calorie foods like cakes and biscuits.
Solution: Book a health check with your local naturopath to address any deficiencies and get back on track.
3. Insufficient Sleep
Sleep is crucial for maintaining a healthy metabolism. Poor sleep disrupts hunger hormones, leading to overeating and poor food choices.
Solution: Turn off electronic devices an hour before bed, and aim for a bedtime of 10 pm or earlier. This will help your body follow its natural circadian rhythm.
4. Slow Metabolism Due to Thyroid Issues
Thyroid problems can slow your metabolism and affect your energy, gut function, and muscle recovery. If you’re gaining weight despite doing everything right, it might be thyroid-related.
Solution: Get a comprehensive thyroid test to check your TSH and thyroid antibodies. Correct any deficiencies in key thyroid nutrients such as iodine, B12, and zinc.
5. Food Intolerances or Sensitivities
Food intolerances can cause bloating, fatigue, and cravings. These sensitivities can disrupt fat-burning and lead to fluid retention.
Solution: If you suspect food intolerances, visit a naturopath for testing. This can help identify any allergies or sensitivities contributing to your weight struggles.
6. Constant Stress
Chronic stress can slow your metabolism as your body tries to conserve energy. This leads to insulin resistance, poor food choices, and weight gain.
Solution: Identify your stressors, practice deep breathing, and make time for activities that bring you joy. If stress continues to be a problem, consider speaking with a professional for guidance.
7. High Environmental Estrogen Load
Exposure to synthetic chemicals, like xenoestrogens in plastics and cosmetics, can mimic natural estrogen in the body. This disrupts hormone balance and leads to weight gain.
Solution: Switch to glass or stainless steel water bottles, and avoid microwaving plastic containers. This simple change can help reduce estrogenic effects and support weight loss.
Get On the Right Path to Weight Loss
If any of these issues resonate with you, it may be time to rethink your approach. By addressing the root causes, such as nutrient deficiencies, poor sleep, or stress, you can start making real progress in your weight loss journey.
Ready to get started? Book Here and Consult a naturopath to create a personalized plan that supports your health and weight loss goals.
I have information about Foods NOT to eat when trying to lose weight. Read this! If you found this helpful, feel free to share it!
by Feeling Great | Jun 5, 2023 | Body
Autoimmune Specialist Naturopath Australia Online
Gut, Thyroid, and the Immune System Connection
Autoimmune thyroid disease often runs in families, but it can skip generations. It also affects more women than men. According to the Thyroid Foundation, when autoimmune disease is present, multiple symptoms can develop.
If you have a thyroid condition, there is a 90% chance it is autoimmune-related. This means that your own immune system is mistakenly attacking your thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and dysfunction.
As with any autoimmune disorder, the immune system turns against specific body parts. For example:
- Rheumatoid arthritis targets the joints
- Coeliac disease affects the gut
- Type 1 diabetes impacts the pancreas
- Multiple sclerosis damages the nerves
In thyroid autoimmune conditions, this process is known as thyroiditis. It includes Hashimoto’s disease, which slows the thyroid down (hypothyroidism), and Graves’ disease, which speeds it up (hyperthyroidism).
Why Gut Health Is Essential for Autoimmune Healing
Did you know that 80–85% of the immune system is in the gut? The gut’s beneficial bacteria regulate immune responses, protect against harmful invaders, and help absorb nutrients. However, when gut bacteria become imbalanced, immune function weakens.
A damaged gut can lead to:
- Chronic infections
- Allergies and food intolerances
- Frequent colds and infections
- Increased autoimmune activity
Maintaining a healthy gut is essential for balancing the immune system and supporting thyroid health. If gut health is compromised, the immune system may continue attacking the thyroid and other organs, leading to worsening symptoms.
How Diet Affects Autoimmune Conditions
A poor diet can disrupt gut bacteria, trigger inflammation, and weaken immune function. Consuming processed foods, sugar, and additives can lead to nutrient deficiencies, digestive issues, and toxic buildup.
Common gut-damaging factors include:
- Antibiotics and medications
- Stress and environmental toxins
- Food sensitivities (gluten, dairy, soy, etc.)
By eliminating inflammatory foods and focusing on nutrient-rich, whole foods, you can support gut healing, reduce autoimmune flare-ups, and restore immune balance.
If you have an autoimmune thyroid condition, diet alone may not be enough. Identifying and addressing food intolerances, gut imbalances, and hidden infections is key to long-term healing.
Are you ready to take control of your health? Start by restoring your gut and supporting your immune system naturally!
That’s what I’m here for your Naturopath Autoimmune Specialist Online Australia – to decode it all and formulate a plan that works for you! So, CLICK HERE to book in for video consult to get you started today.
by Feeling Great | May 31, 2023 | Cognitive Health
Brain Fog Treatment – 8 Causes & 7 Ways to Clear It
Feeling Forgetful & Foggy? You’re Not Alone
Have you ever walked into a room and completely forgotten why you’re there? Or found yourself searching for your keys for the third time today? If so, you might be experiencing brain fog.
Many people struggle with mental fatigue, forgetfulness, and difficulty concentrating, making even simple tasks feel overwhelming. It’s like trying to think through a smokescreen—frustrating and exhausting.
Brain fog isn’t a medical condition itself but rather a symptom of an underlying issue. It can last for hours, days, or even weeks, depending on the cause.
Is It Time to Clear Your Mind? Let’s Find Out.
What Causes Brain Fog?
Brain fog can be triggered by lifestyle habits, nutritional deficiencies, or underlying health conditions. Here are the eight most common causes:
1. Lack of Quality Sleep
Poor sleep reduces brain function, making it harder to focus, remember, and process information.
2. Dehydration
Even mild dehydration reduces cognitive performance, leading to slower thinking and memory problems.
3. Chronic Stress
Prolonged stress raises cortisol levels, which can disrupt brain function and contribute to foggy thinking.
4. Food Sensitivities
Undiagnosed food intolerances can cause inflammation, bloating, fatigue, and—yes—brain fog.
5. Gut Infections
Your gut and brain are connected. An unhealthy gut microbiome can lead to mental fog and low energy.
6. Hormonal Imbalances
Menopause, thyroid dysfunction, and insulin resistance can all contribute to poor memory and brain fatigue.
7. Low Essential Nutrients
Deficiencies in iron, B12, and other key nutrients limit oxygen supply to the brain, leading to cognitive issues.
8. Poor Detoxification
A sluggish liver struggles to remove toxins, which can contribute to fatigue and brain fog.
How to Get Rid of Brain Fog Naturally
If brain fog is slowing you down, don’t worry—there are simple and effective ways to clear it. Start with these seven brain-boosting hacks:
1. Improve Your Sleep Quality
Aiming for 7-9 hours of deep, uninterrupted sleep is essential for brain function.
Try this:
- Go to bed at the same time each night.
- Avoid screens an hour before bedtime.
- Keep your bedroom cool and dark for optimal rest.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drinking at least 2 liters of water daily prevents dehydration-related brain fog.
Signs of dehydration:
- Dark urine
- Low energy
- Headaches
Try this: If plain water isn’t doing the trick, add a pinch of sea salt to improve absorption.
3. Eat Brain-Friendly Carbs
Refined carbs (cakes, white bread, sweets) cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, making brain fog worse.
Swap these for:
- Vegetables (broccoli, leafy greens, sweet potatoes)
- Fruits (blueberries, apples, bananas)
- Legumes & seeds (quinoa, lentils, chia)
4. Add Protein & Healthy Fats
Proteins and healthy fats stabilize blood sugar levels, providing sustained energy for the brain.
Great sources:
- Protein: Eggs, chicken, fish, tofu
- Fats: Avocado, nuts, olive oil, fatty fish
Try this: Start your day with a protein-rich breakfast instead of sugary cereals.
5. Move Your Body Daily
Physical activity increases oxygen flow to the brain, improving mental clarity.
Try this:
- Take a 20-minute walk
- Do a 10-minute high-intensity workout
- Join a yoga or gym class
Consistency is key!
6. Manage Stress & Prioritize Self-Care
Chronic stress depletes DHEA, a hormone crucial for brain health.
Try this:
- Take a hot bath
- Go for a barefoot walk in nature
- Practice deep breathing or meditation
Even 10 minutes of relaxation daily can make a difference.
7. Check Your Iron & B12 Levels
Low iron and B12 reduce oxygen supply to the brain, causing fatigue and poor focus.
Check your levels if you experience:
- Ongoing fatigue
- Pale skin
- Dizziness
Try this: Book a blood test to assess your nutrient levels.
When to Seek Professional Help
If brain fog persists despite lifestyle changes, it may be due to underlying health issues. Here’s when to dig deeper:
1. You Might Need a Detox
- Toxins from processed foods, alcohol, and pollution can overload your liver. A guided detox every 6-12 months can reset your system.
Book a detox consultation today.
2. Food Sensitivities Could Be the Culprit
- Brain fog often pairs with bloating, sinus issues, or digestive discomfort. Food intolerance testing can help identify problem foods.
Schedule a test here.
3. Gut Infections Disrupt Brain Function
- A history of stomach bugs, recurrent thrush, or digestive issues may indicate an infection affecting cognitive clarity.
Get tested to restore gut health.
4. Hormonal Imbalances Are Impacting Memory
- Low estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone can impair memory and concentration.
Book hormone testing if you have mood swings, PMS, or irregular periods.
5. Your Thyroid Might Be Sluggish
- Symptoms like constant tiredness, sugar cravings, and feeling cold can signal an underactive thyroid.
Check your thyroid levels here.
6. Thyroid Medications May Need Adjustments
- If you’re on thyroid meds but still feel foggy, your treatment may need fine-tuning.
Get personalized thyroid support here.
Ready to Clear Brain Fog for Good?
Brain fog doesn’t have to be your normal! Start with these simple strategies, and if you need more support, book a consultation today.
📢 Which of these tips are you going to try first? Let me know in the comments!