logo

Welcome to Whole Naturopathy

``We’re here to support your journey to optimal health, so that you can live your best life``

Follow @ Instagram

0493 294 159

Suite 1, 53/1880 Ferntree Gully Rd, Mountain Gate Shopping Centre, Ferntree Gully, Victoria

Top

Author: Kathryn Messenger

Whole Naturopathy / Articles posted by Kathryn Messenger
Naturopath advice for improving diet for weight loss

If weight loss is a simple formula, why do we struggle?

Part of it is due to poor diet advice. To some extent it is because sugar is highly addictive, as well as the fact that eating can be strongly driven my emotions. We’re all basically wired to avoid pain and seek pleasure. After all, to some degree, it keeps us alive. If we’re used to short-term gratification, then why wouldn’t we go for chips and donuts rather than kale and hemp seeds (Ok, so I don’t eat kale or hemp seeds all that often 😊). What's causing the poor diet? Rather than first focusing on your diet failure, let’s look at what’s going on at a deeper level. Are you stressed and your brain is looking for quick fuel? Are you sad and memories of cake or lollies...

Share
Naturopathic treatment for PCOS

PCOS – Not as simple as you may have thought

Overview of the disease Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder caused by androgen excess. Androgens are male hormones which can be characterised by significant facial hair and seen in hormonal blood tests. Because the disease can present very differently amongst women, there can be a lot of confusion about what the best treatment to bring these high androgen levels back within their normal range. The disease is characterised by hormonal imbalance, irregular menstruation (often months without a cycle), and sometimes the presence of small cysts on the ovaries. According to Dr. Lara Briden, there are four types of PCOS: insulin-resistant PCOS, inflammatory PCOS, post-pill PCOS, and adrenal PCOS. Insulin resistant PCOS Insulin resistance, leading to hyperinsulinemia can cause the increase in androgen production by the...

Share
Clinical support fatty liver disease

The other kind of Liver Disease

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is on the rise and is caused by poor dietary choices. But just like anything that is caused by a poor diet, it can be improved with a good one. If you would like to know more about Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD), see my article from last month, but for NAFLD, read on. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Unlike AFLD, NAFLD isn't primarily linked to alcohol consumption. Instead, it results from factors such as poor dietary choices, sedentary lifestyles, and insulin resistance. The liver, faced with an influx of refined sugars and unhealthy fats, undergoes a process where excess glucose is converted into fat, leading to the accumulation observed in NAFLD. Diagnosis NAFLD is diagnosed the same as AFLD, by a blood test,...

Share
Nutritional support for alcoholic fatty liver disease

What is Fatty Liver Disease?

Historically, Fatty Liver Disease (FLD) was associated with excessive alcohol consumption, but now has evolved into two distinct categories: Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD) and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Next month, I’ll delve into NAFLD, but for now, here’s the breakdown of ALFD. Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD) AFLD was first seen in prolonged alcohol abuse, where the liver struggles to metabolise the excessive intake of alcohol. This led to the accumulation of fat, impairing liver function and paving the way for inflammation. This is diagnosed with a blood test, but usually if you have FLD, you will find that you don’t metabolise alcohol well and will take a longer time to recover after drinking than your friends, or than you used to. You may also...

Share

Beat the Sugar Cravings

Maybe it’s too many parties over Christmas and New Year, or maybe you’ve been struggling with this for a while. One thing for sure is that sugar is addictive, and it can be really hard to say no. Sugar addiction Have you ever noticed the difference between your cravings for sugar compared to naturally sweet products? The sugar craving seems to be unsatiable, whilst with honey or dried fruit, you get to a point where you just don’t enjoy it anymore and so you stop eating it. This is because sugar has been stripped of the vitamins and minerals found in natural sugar cane which means you not only miss out on those nutrients, but you also miss out on the natural mechanism that helps you to...

Share
goals

Setting Realistic Goals for a Great Year

As we find ourselves in 2024, it's the perfect time to reflect on the past and look ahead to a fresh start. One of the most meaningful gifts you can give yourself is the commitment to a healthier and more fulfilling life. Along with the common goal of weight loss, think about embracing a lifestyle that nurtures your well-being. So, let's embark on this journey together, with a positive mindset. Define Your Why Understanding the reasons behind your health goals is essential for long-term success. Ask yourself why these goals matter to you. It could be improving your energy levels, reducing stress, longevity, or simply feeling more confident in your own skin. Your "why" will be your anchor during challenging times, reminding you of the greater purpose...

Share
Calm christmas

A Calmer Christmas

The lead-up to Christmas can be a whirlwind of activity, shopping, planning, and celebrations. While it’s an exciting time for kids, being the parent who is often reminded of the countdown and just how few days they have left to get through the never-ending list, can be overwhelming and stressful. Finding ways to stay calm and maintain a balanced lifestyle is crucial to enjoy both the traditions of this special time of year and your family. Here are some tips for remaining calm and healthy as you navigate the bustling days before Christmas. Prioritise Self-Care In the midst of shopping for gifts, decorating, and preparing meals, it's easy to neglect self-care. However, taking time for yourself is essential for mental and physical health. Incorporate short breaks into...

Share
HDL:LDL

Cholesterol – friend or foe?

Cholesterol plays a vital role in our bodies, serving as an essential part of our cell membranes and helping to regulate various bodily functions. It acts like a building material, providing structural integrity to cell walls and allowing them to function properly. Additionally, cholesterol is essential for the production of hormones like estrogen and testosterone, and fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin D, which control various bodily processes, including growth and reproduction. So, without cholesterol, our cells would not be able to maintain their integrity, and we wouldn't have the necessary hormones to keep our bodies functioning correctly. HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) and LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) are two types of cholesterol carriers in your bloodstream, each with distinct roles, and are seen as the following. HDL cholesterol is often called...

Share
Nutritional naturopath weight loss

Don’t just lose weight for the summer, lose it for life!

So often the quick fix, magic bullet answers also have a quick undo, or just can’t be sustained long term. In terms of health, a slow steady change that lasts is much better than a quick fix that doesn’t. So often people go on very restrictive or low-calorie diets and whilst the number on the scales may look great for a little while, it’s not something that works long-term. One of the first changes that can make a big difference, not only to weight loss, but also to all areas of health, is to increase your protein intake. Protein is required for repair of all cells in your body, and low protein meals can leave you feeling hungry afterwards. Try to have some protein with every...

Share
Iron levels

Trouble getting your iron levels within range?

With some iron supplements people are left choosing between being exhausted or being constipated, neither of which are good for your health. Others opt for regular iron infusions, and whilst these can be great when your levels are very low, for most people, there are other ways to increase absorption of the important nutrient. The role of Iron Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues and organs. Oxygen is required for the functioning of all cells, and a lack of supply to muscles and cells can result in feelings of fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. What causes low iron? Iron deficiency occurs either through inadequate intake, or excessive blood loss. As a result, the body struggles to...

Share