Oh my goodness there has been so much in the last month that’s been happening in the world of wellness. I couldn’t even imagine where to start so I’m gonna break it down to three topics for this newsletter.

Recently a study was published citing findings saying that there was one significant root cause to the majority of health issues we are seeing today - no shock it was ultra processed food. So let’s first differentiate between the terms processed and ultra processed. Anything from picking to cutting food is considered processing, when we break it down in this way we can usually change the framework in which we view the term processed foods. What the study is referring to is ultra processed foods which in short is nutrients that are broken down into their basic elements in a lab and then reformulated into a food like substance. This study has been a topic of conversation on multiple functional nutrition podcasts and websites since it came out February 2024. What I suggest is that you read it yourself and determine what’s valuable to you. I’ll share the link here and give you the opportunity to form your own opinion.

This last month, I’ve had some very interesting conversations regarding the Oprah special on GLP-1 drugs (weight loss injections). I personally did not watch the special right away as I was waiting until I had the mental capacity to view it objectively. When I did sit down, I was conflicted. I do firmly believe that there is a place in our society where pharmaceuticals are a necessity for people to maintain a quality life. As a holistic health coach I lean towards that being a last resort. I found the information provided in the special to be one-sided and that the risk factors were not highlighted in a way that I was anticipating/hoping for and were more so glossed over. I anticipate the use of GLP-1 drugs becoming more prevalent in the upcoming year to two. Currently in the USA the pharmaceutical companies can inflate the price of these drugs to whatever they want making it something that only certain socioeconomic classes can afford. What that means to most people is that we still need to focus on the basics: nutrient dense whole foods, staying active, and building community. I stand firm in my belief that playing the quick fix game and never addressing your relationship with food and yourself keeps you on the consumerism rollercoaster from which we don't benefit. I would rather help you get off the ride for good!

And the last one, the cold plunge craze. Full disclosure I hate cold water, and because of that it will never be something that I get into. The primary goal of a cold plunge should be for people to train their vagus nerve which is a giant nerve connecting our body to our brain informing our fight or flight response. This conditioning can therefore help us react in a more calm way when we’re actually faced with a challenging situation. Sadly, I see a lot of people using cold plunge in the hopes that it will help them lose weight, shrink fat cells, decrease their appetite and more non-scientifically backed claims. Here’s my hot take: if you enjoy it and it makes your body feel good then knock yourself out. If it doesn't feel right for you there are many other ways to ground your nervous system when you get over stimulated. Try these out instead:

• Deep Breathing Exercises
• Singing, Humming, or Gargling
• Exercise
• Dancing
• Playing a Musical Instrument
• The Vagal Push (AKA The Valsalva Maneuver)
• Prayer, Meditation, or Yoga.

If you are being overwhelmed with what you see in the media please reach out and ask questions. I am always ready to help silence the noise.​​

Coach Jen

Mothers Day Brunch Ideas If you are thinking about how to celebrate your Mom or Bonus Mom this year here is a link to multiple yummy recipes to try out. Recipe Here

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