Pay Attention To Your Body’s Signals

As my career progresses, I increasingly engage in discussions about diverse health issues ranging from headaches and skin problems to missed periods, hair loss, fatigue and even seemingly minor issues like weak nails. It's striking (though not entirely surprising, as I experienced the same in my teens) how often people overlook or temporarily mask their symptoms. Headaches are often dulled with ibuprofen, constipation addressed with laxatives, eczema treated with steroid creams, menstrual irregularities managed with contraceptive pills and so forth. While we are fortunate to have access to modern healthcare and medicines, turning to pharmaceuticals as a first response isn’t always the best approach. I've learned through experience that continually suppressing your body's signals can lead to more significant problems over time.

Our bodies tirelessly work to maintain health, digesting food, absorbing essential nutrients for biochemical reactions and expelling unwanted substances. However, many struggle with these processes effectively due to factors like diet, past medication usage, stress, dehydration, lack of digestive enzymes and environmental toxins. The interplay of digestion, absorption and elimination is complex and when these processes are compromised, unpleasant symptoms can arise.

For instance, after multiple antibiotic treatments for UTIs during my teens, my digestive health declined, leading to IBS symptoms, which I initially did not correlate. Over time, this issue escalated to migraines, skin issues, energy loss, mood swings and early signs of rheumatoid arthritis. I now understand this was exacerbated due to antibiotics that disrupted my gut health, affecting nutrient absorption and toxin elimination, which in turn led to hormonal imbalances, more migraines and an immune response causing joint inflammation.

Many people share similar experiences. Years of treating eczema with steroids or using contraceptive pills for menstrual issues could potentially be addressed more naturally by correcting gut dysbiosis or eliminating aggravating foods. While genetics play a role in some cases, often there's more that can be done than one might think.

I’m fortunate to have discovered a passion for food and functional health, which led to healing my gut and reversing my symptoms. However, many spend years on medications that only offer temporary relief without addressing the underlying issue. I feel a strong urge to encourage others to explore this path, as I've seen firsthand how small lifestyle changes can resolve chronic health problems, often improving energy levels and mental well-being.

In conclusion, while seeking the root cause of symptoms may require more effort and experimentation, it is crucial for long-term health. I plan to share resources, articles and insights from functional medicine practitioners that have aided my journey. Remember, your body is your most insightful doctor, constantly sending signals about what works for you. The key is to listen attentively.

If you feel lost and would like support, please reach out so that I can guide you on a transformative health journey.