Radhia Gleis's Blog, page 4

Introduction to Mental Health and Amino AcidsAre you awar...

Introduction to Mental Health and Amino Acids

Are you aware that the key to mental well-being may lie in the amino acids you consume? Amino acids, the building blocks of protein, are essential for creating neurotransmitters, the chemicals responsible for regulating mood and emotions. This means that your diet directly impacts your mental health! This article explores the relationship between amino acids, neurotransmitters, and how they play a critical role in emotional and mental health.

The Role of Amino Acids in Mental Health

Your brain consists of billions of neurons (nerve cells), which communicate via neurotransmitters—chemical messengers that influence everything from your mood to your focus. Amino acids, derived from protein-rich foods, are essential for producing these neurotransmitters.

For example, serotonin, often called the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, is synthesized from the amino acid L-tryptophan. Low serotonin levels can lead to depression, anxiety, and stress. By including more L-tryptophan-rich foods like turkey, eggs, and nuts in your diet, you can naturally support serotonin production, improving mental well-being.

If you’re looking to understand more about the relationship between amino acids and neurotransmitters, check out this guide on neurotransmitter balance.

Balancing Neurotransmitters for Emotional Stability

Neurotransmitters such as dopamine and noradrenaline are responsible for stimulating brain activity. They help with focus, motivation, and energy. However, an imbalance in these neurotransmitters can lead to conditions like anxiety, ADHD, and mood swings. Amino acids like dl-Phenylalanine and L-Tyrosine are essential for producing these neurotransmitters and keeping them in check.

An imbalance of neurotransmitters can be corrected through a proper diet and supplementation. Interested in learning more about how amino acids affect brain chemistry? Visit this resource on mental health and nutrition.

The Downside of Relying Solely on Medication

Many people turn to antidepressant medications like SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) such as Prozac to increase serotonin levels. While these medications can be effective short-term, they may cause the brain to reduce its natural serotonin production over time, leading to diminishing returns and possible long-term dependency.

For a more holistic approach, incorporating amino acid supplements and a diet rich in essential nutrients can provide a sustainable solution without the side effects. Curious about alternatives to medication? Read more in this article on natural remedies for depression.

Orthomolecular Psychiatry: A Natural Approach to Mental Health

Orthomolecular Psychiatry is a growing field that focuses on treating mental health issues by balancing the brain’s nutrients—primarily vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. By addressing the root causes of neurotransmitter imbalances, this approach provides a natural, long-term solution for conditions like depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.

For those interested in learning more about Orthomolecular Psychiatry, visit this comprehensive overview.

Natural Health Specialty Inc.: Supporting Your Mental Health Journey

At Natural Health Specialty Inc., we firmly believe in non-toxic, natural treatments to support long-term health. Instead of masking the symptoms of mental health disorders, we address the root cause by improving nutrition and using targeted supplements. Our experience shows that dietary changes, along with vitamins, minerals, and herbs, can improve mental and emotional well-being.

Want to learn more about our natural treatment plans? Visit our services page for personalized health solutions.

The Growing Trend of Natural Healthcare

As more people recognize the impact of diet and lifestyle on mental health, there is a shift towards natural, complementary healthcare. Backed by scientific research, natural treatments are proving effective for both mental and physical health.

For more information on the benefits of natural medicine, check out this study on complementary healthcare.

Testing Neurotransmitter Levels for Personalized Care

To ensure an effective treatment plan, testing neurotransmitter levels can provide insights into how your brain is functioning. Like hormone testing, neurotransmitter tests can help tailor treatments to your unique needs. For stress-related hormones, saliva tests are often used to monitor adrenal function throughout the day.

Learn more about neurotransmitter testing and how it can benefit your mental health.

Conclusion: Take Charge of Your Mental Health Naturally

Amino acids and neurotransmitters play an integral role in mental and emotional well-being. By understanding how they work together and embracing natural treatments, you can take control of your mental health. Balanced nutrition, amino acid supplementation, and proper testing are all essential tools for a happier, healthier life.

Do I Really Need Supplements or Is a Healthy Diet Enough?

One of the most frequent questions I hear in my clinical practice is, “Do I really need supplements, or can I get all the nutrients I need from my diet?” After reviewing countless diets, it’s clear that in today’s fast-paced world, even with the best intentions, many people struggle to meet their nutritional needs through diet alone. But why is that?

Challenges of Modern Life: Why Diet Alone May Not Be Enough

Modern life presents many challenges for maintaining a balanced diet. Between work, family, and busy schedules, it can be difficult to consistently prepare meals that meet your nutritional needs. Moreover, we have less control over the quality of our food compared to previous generations. Until the early 20th century, food came from small farms where traditional farming practices supported nutrient-rich crops. Today, industrial farming dominates.

Nutritional Decline in Modern Food

Industrial farming has altered the way we grow food. Pesticides, chemical fertilizers, and genetically engineered crops have depleted our soil of essential nutrients, reducing the nutritional quality of the food we eat. This decline in nutrient density has contributed to rising rates of degenerative diseases and obesity. As a result, even a well-balanced diet might not provide the nutrients your body needs to stay healthy.

For more on the impact of industrial farming, visit How Modern Agriculture Affects Food Quality. https://tynerpondfarm.com/blog/the-de...

Personal Experience: My Own Nutrient Deficiency

To see how difficult it can be to meet nutritional needs through diet alone, I conducted a personal experiment. I tracked my food intake for seven days and had it analyzed. Despite eating what I considered a balanced diet, I found that I was deficient in several essential nutrients. This experience showed me firsthand that even with a conscious effort to eat well, nutritional gaps still exist. That’s where supplements come in.

The Importance of Cellular Micronutrient Testing

One of the best ways to assess your nutritional health is through cellular micronutrient testing. Nutrients are metabolized at the cellular level, and testing immune cells gives a more accurate picture of long-term nutrient status. The Cellular Micronutrient Assay https://youtu.be/lnvwmFR9jLQ (CMA) measures nutrient levels, providing personalized insights into your body’s needs. Unlike standard blood tests, which offer only a snapshot, cellular testing offers a comprehensive view.

Antioxidants and Oxidative Stress

In addition to nutrient deficiencies, modern living exposes us to free radicals from pollution, toxins, and radiation. These free radicals contribute to oxidative stress, which plays a role in chronic diseases. Antioxidants protect cells from this damage. Cellular testing, such as the Redox Assay and Antioxidant Protection Assay (APA), can measure antioxidant capacity, offering valuable insights into how well your body fights oxidative stress.

Conclusion: The Role of Supplements in Modern Health

While diet is the foundation of good health, supplements are a practical tool to fill the nutritional gaps left by modern food production and busy lifestyles. Personalized testing can provide the insight needed to optimize your health through a combination of diet and supplements.
For more information, explore our Nutritional Supplements Guide https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/lis... or contact us to learn about Cellular Testing Services.

Clean Slate

Unlocking the Power of Detoxification for Optimal Health

Discover how detoxification can transform your health. Learn about natural detox processes, common toxins, and why supporting your body’s cleansing pathways is essential.

Detoxification plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal health. As a Certified Clinical Nutritionist, I believe in a holistic approach to wellness, where detoxification is part of a trilogy of actions: detoxification, building/toning, and maintenance/balance. Detoxification helps neutralize, transform, and eliminate toxins, allowing our bodies to function at their best.

The Body’s Natural Detoxification Process

Our bodies are designed to detoxify in several ways. The liver is central to this process, transforming harmful substances into harmless agents. These waste products are then transported by the blood to the kidneys for elimination or sent to the intestines via bile for removal through bowel movements. We also expel toxins through sweating and our skin and sinuses.

Internal Link: How your liver detoxifies toxins.

However, when we accumulate more toxins than our bodies can process, toxicity builds up, disturbing our natural balance, or homeostasis.

Sources of Toxins

Toxins come from two main sources: external and internal.

External toxins include pollutants from the air, food, and water. According to the EPA, over 5.7 billion pounds of chemical pollutants are introduced into the environment annually, which we inhale, ingest, or come into contact withernal toxins** are natural by-products of cellular metabolism and other bodily processes, including those from microorganisms like intestinal bacteria, yeasts, and parasites. Emotional stress and negative thoughts can also produce biochemical toxins that add to the toxic load.

Outbound Link: Read more about environmental toxins from the EPA.

The Impact of Toxin Overload

If the body’s immune and elimination systems are functioning well, we can handle a reasonable level of toxins. But when we either take in too many toxins or our elimination processes slow down, toxins accumulate and irritate cells and tissues. This can interfere with normal function and increase the risk of diseases, including chronic illnesses.

Internal Link: Signs your body needs detoxification.

Benefits of Detoxification

Detoxification supports the body’s ability to clear harmful substances, restoring balance and vitality. Detox programs, ranging from dietary changes to more intensive fasts, offer numerous health benefits, including improved energy levels, digestion, and skin health. Common signs that your body may need a detox include:

FatigueHeadachesDigestive issuesSkin problems

However, it’s essential to avoid over-detoxification. Overdoing it through fasting or extreme exercise can lead to nutrient deficiencies.

Outbound Link: Learn about safe detox practices from Mayo Clinic.

Personalized Detox Programs

At Wellness Goals, I’ve developed customized detoxification protocols tailored to individual needs. Whether it’s a simple dietary adjustment or a more in-depth cleansing program, I provide clients with the tools to support their natural detox pathways. Everyone’s body is unique, so a personalized approach to detoxification is essential for long-term health.

Internal Link: Explore personalized detoxification plans.

Simple Ways to Support Detoxification

Detoxification doesn’t have to be complex or extreme. Some simple ways to support your body’s natural detoxification processes include:

Drinking more water to stay hydratedIncreasing your intake of fruits and vegetablesReducing processed foods, refined sugars, and fats

For more intensive detox programs, it’s important to seek the guidance of a health professional to ensure you’re following a plan that suits your unique needs.

Internal Link: How to hydrate for better detoxification.

Conclusion: Detoxification is a Health Investment

Supporting the body’s detoxification systems through nutrition, lifestyle changes, and professional guidance is one of the best investments you can make for your long-term health. Regular detoxification, when done correctly, helps restore balance and vitality, allowing your body to function optimally.

For personalized detoxification guidance, contact Wellness Goals today and learn how to cleanse your body for optimal health.

Work to Live or Live to Work? It Makes All the Difference!

Like many practitioners, my journey as a Board-Certified Clinical Nutritionist began with my own health challenges. I was working at Disney as an airbrush artist, blissfully unaware of the toll paint fumes were taking on my body. I experienced heart palpitations, weight issues, severe hypoglycemia, and relentless headaches. By the afternoon, I felt like a walking zombie!

At a young age, I often worried about my future health. I was living a toxic lifestyle, fueled by stress, coffee, and junk food. My heart palpitations had become so frequent that I’d jokingly ask friends to punch me in the chest to reset my heart rhythm—yes, really! And my family doctor, the chief cardiologist at Santa Monica Hospital, wanted to put me on phenobarbital, a highly addictive barbiturate, just to slow my heart rate.

Then I stumbled upon a remarkable chiropractor and nutritionist in Malibu who changed everything. She asked if I wore a mask while using the airbrush. I blinked and said, “A mask? No, how could I smoke!” She then asked how much coffee I drank, and when I sheepishly admitted to six cups a day, she helped me cut back. Would you believe that my heart palpitations vanished? Turns out, I wasn’t phenobarbital deficient after all!

This nutritionist opened my eyes. Her solutions were so simple, yet so enlightening. I thought, “Why didn’t I know this before?” We often overlook our own common sense in favor of conventional medicine. Over time, I transformed my lifestyle, adopting a clean diet, meditating daily, and exercising regularly. I now feel better at seventy than I ever did in my twenties. Inspired, I wanted to share this knowledge with others so they could avoid the pitfalls I encountered.

As my art career took off, I found myself at a crossroads. I had a fantastic offer as an art director with a starting salary of $60,000 (which was quite a bit back then), plus benefits, a company car, and annual trips to Europe. Or I could test urine in a lab for fifty bucks a week. Hmmm… what was I thinking? I needed to talk to my mom about this decision. She had always believed in my artistic talent, and I was nervous about telling her I wanted to switch gears to something she might consider “airy-fairy.”

When I visited her, she was sitting at the table playing solitaire with the cat. “So, what did you decide about your job offer?” she asked, flipping cards without looking up. “I think I want to study nutrition,” I replied, my heart raced. To make my case, I added, “My portfolio was stolen.” Still not looking up, she calmly replied, “I had my portfolio stolen once. All my awards and original artwork… gone.” After a moment, she looked up at me and said, “You’re not your portfolio. That’s what you do, not who you are. You need to do whatever makes you happy.”

That was our last conversation I had with my mother; she passed away suddenly the next day. It was a moment that made me realize the true difference between a job and a vocation. The inheritance I received helped me go back to school to study clinical nutrition, leading me to earn my graduate degree and certifications.

For thirty-six wonderful years, my holistic practice thrived. My mission was simple: to help patients restore their health and create a supportive, safe space where they felt cared for. Hearing patients say they felt safe and valued was the best reward; it made my work a true vocation.

Today, I get to educate and support anyone who needs me. While I offer professional-grade nutraceuticals, I’m not a vitamin salesperson. I love researching, vetting manufacturers, and finding solutions for various health concerns. I create educational content and engage with clients both by Zoom and over the phone all over the country.

Being able to care for others, solve their challenges, and serve my community gives my life meaning. Turning a job into a vocation nourishes my soul and helps heal the community. That’s what life is all about—being there for someone and making a difference!

Mental and Emotional Illness Is Not Due to Prozac Deficiency

Did you know that the building blocks of protein, amino acids, are essential for our mental health? These tiny but powerful nutrients are responsible for creating neurotransmitters—chemicals in our brain that control our mood, emotions, and overall well-being. The best part? These neurotransmitters are made from the amino acids found in the food we eat, meaning that what we put on our plates has a direct impact on how we feel. So, when we talk about managing stress, improving mood, or even fighting off depression, our diet plays a key role.

Our brain is made up of billions of neurons, which are nerve cells that communicate through electrical signals. Neurotransmitters are the messengers that help these neurons pass information back and forth. When there’s an imbalance in neurotransmitter levels, it can throw off our mood and behavior. For example, serotonin—a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of happiness and calm—can be linked to depression when levels are low. The good news is that we can boost serotonin naturally by consuming more of the amino acid L-tryptophan, which helps the body produce serotonin.

For over 30 years, research has shown that serotonin is crucial in helping us feel calm, focused, and relaxed. It also plays a big role in counteracting stress. If serotonin levels drop, it can lead to mood disorders like depression and anxiety. By making sure we get enough L-tryptophan, we can help our bodies produce more serotonin and, as a result, feel better mentally and emotionally.

On the other hand, neurotransmitters like dopamine and noradrenaline have a more stimulating effect. While these are necessary for focus and energy, too much of them or an imbalance can make us feel anxious, stressed, or angry. In some cases, they can even contribute to disorders like ADHD, OCD, and anxiety. The amino acids dl-Phenylalanine and L-Tyrosine are important for producing these neurotransmitters, and keeping them balanced can help manage stress, focus, and mood more effectively.

While many antidepressant medications, like SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) such as Prozac, work by increasing serotonin levels temporarily, there’s a downside. Over time, these medications can reduce the brain’s ability to produce serotonin naturally, making the drugs less effective. This is why some experts are turning to more natural approaches—using diet and amino acid supplements—to help balance neurotransmitter levels without the long-term risks.

This concept is central to a field called Orthomolecular Psychiatry, which aims to prevent and treat mental health issues by providing the brain with the nutrients it needs to function properly. By ensuring the right balance of vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and other natural substances, we can correct the chemical imbalances that contribute to mood disorders, anxiety, and other emotional challenges.

At Natural Health Specialty Inc., we’ve always believed in the power of non-toxic, natural treatments to build lasting health. Rather than just masking the symptoms of disease, we focus on addressing the root causes by improving nutrition and using natural supplements. We’ve seen firsthand how dietary changes combined with vitamins, minerals, and herbs can improve people’s lives, helping them feel healthier and more balanced.

Natural healthcare is no longer just an “alternative” option—it’s becoming a first choice for many people looking for safer, more effective ways to take care of their health. With so much scientific evidence supporting the benefits of natural medicine, and growing demand from the public, the time for nutritional and complementary healthcare is now. People are becoming more aware of how their diet and lifestyle choices impact their overall well-being, and this shift in thinking is changing how we approach healthcare.

Testing neurotransmitter levels is also important to understanding what’s happening in our brains. Like with hormone testing, timing matters. A morning urine sample can provide the most accurate picture of neurotransmitter balance, giving us valuable insights for creating personalized treatment plans. For adrenal hormones, which affect stress, saliva tests are often used to monitor levels throughout the day and get a clearer picture of how stress is impacting the body.

In short, by learning how amino acids and neurotransmitters work together, we can take charge of our mental and emotional health. Through natural treatments, a balanced diet, and proper testing, we can support our brain’s chemistry and live healthier, happier lives.

To Supplement or Not to Supplement, that is The Question!

In my clinical practice, one of the most common questions I receive is, “Do I need to take supplements, or can I get all the nutrients I need from my diet?” From my observations, and after reviewing the diets of thousands of individuals, it’s clear that in today’s fast-paced world, even with the best intentions, most people fall short of meeting their nutritional needs through diet alone.

Modern life brings many challenges when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet. The demands of everyday life—whether its making ends meet or feeding ourselves and our families—are time-consuming and expensive. Additionally, we have less control over how our food is grown and prepared. Up until the early 20th century, most of our food came from small farms where traditional practices like crop rotation and natural soil regeneration helped maintain nutrient-rich soil. Seasonal flooding replenished the land with vital minerals, providing the foods grown there with a rich nutrient profile.

Today, farming is a large-scale industry. Farms now span miles, and machines handle most planting and harvesting. Chemical fertilizers have replaced natural methods, and pesticides destroy not only pests but also beneficial microorganisms in the soil. Modern practices, including genetic engineering and the use of growth hormones, force the land to produce multiple crops per year without giving it time to recover. These factors have contributed to a decline in the nutritional quality of our food, which, combined with other lifestyle factors, has played a significant role in the rise of degenerative diseases and obesity in our society.

To emphasize this point, I once conducted an experiment on my own diet. I carefully tracked everything I ate for seven days and had the data analyzed by a specialized lab. The results were eye-opening—I was below the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for several key nutrients, despite my efforts to eat a balanced diet. This reinforced my belief that while supplements shouldn’t be a substitute for healthy eating, they can play an important role in filling nutritional gaps. A well-balanced diet, focused on whole, organic, and unprocessed foods, should remain the priority. However, it’s also unrealistic to rely solely on food to meet the demands of modern life.

One of the most effective ways to assess nutritional status is through cellular testing. Nutrient metabolism occurs within cells, so it’s essential to evaluate nutrient levels at the cellular level. The Cellular Micronutrient Assay (CMA) provides valuable insights into long-term nutrient sufficiency by analyzing micronutrients, amino acids, and other nutrients within immune cells. This offers a more accurate picture of nutrient status than a single blood test, which only provides a snapshot.

In addition to micronutrient levels, our bodies are constantly exposed to free radicals from pollution, toxins, medications, and radiation. These free radicals can cause oxidative damage, which contributes to chronic and degenerative diseases. Antioxidants protect cells from this damage and testing overall antioxidant function is another important factor in assessing health. The Redox Assay measures the antioxidant capacity of immune cells, while the Antioxidant Protection Assay (APA) identifies specific antioxidants that enhance the body’s ability to fight oxidative stress.

In summary, while diet remains the foundation of good health, supplements can be a practical and necessary tool to meet the nutritional demands of modern living. Testing for nutrient levels and antioxidant capacity can provide personalized insights into an individual’s needs and support long-term well-being.

Cracking the Code

Unlock Better Health with Genomic Testing

Imagine being able to discover your unique health risks with just a simple saliva test. Genomic testing, now available through the Wellness Goals Shop, can unlock secrets hidden in your DNA. This predictive genetic testing helps us understand who is more likely to develop certain diseases. It also shows who may benefit from specific medications or supplements, and what nutrients are optimal for your health.

What Does Genetic Testing Test For?

Genetic testing can assess various health risks. It typically tests for genetic variations linked to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis, and inflammatory disorders. Additionally, it can evaluate how your body processes certain medications, providing insights into personalized treatment options

Understanding Your Genetic Foundation

Think of a Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) as a small crack in the foundation of a bridge. Over time, this minor crack can lead to significant issues if left unaddressed. Now, imagine if you could repair these cracks before they became a problem. Even better, knowing where they are can help you avoid stressing the weak points in your foundation. The same is true for our genetic makeup.

What Can Genomic Testing Reveal?

Genomic testing reveals these “cracks” in your DNA, providing critical insights into how to protect your health. For example, you may discover you are homozygous for the MTHFR polymorphism. This means you inherited two copies of the same genetic variation, which can significantly impair your ability to process folic acid and detoxify your body. As a result, you may be more vulnerable to toxins, and harmful lifestyle choices like smoking could impact your health even more.

How Much Does Genetic Testing Cost?

The cost of genetic testing can vary widely based on the type of test and the provider. On average, expect to pay anywhere from $199 to $2,500 for a comprehensive genomic test. It’s essential to research different options and choose a test that meets your specific health needs.

Is Genetic Testing Covered by Insurance?

Whether genetic testing is covered by insurance largely depends on the specific test and your insurance plan. Some tests, particularly those that help diagnose or guide treatment for certain medical conditions, may be covered. However, many direct-to-consumer genetic tests might not be reimbursed. Always check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.

How Can I Get Tested for a Gene?

Getting tested for a gene is straightforward. You can order a genetic test through a healthcare provider, a genetics clinic, or a direct-to-consumer company. Many companies, like the Wellness Goals Shop, offer at-home testing kits. Simply collect a saliva sample and send it back for analysis.

If you choose, you can work with Radhia Gleis, CCN, MEd, www.radhiagleis.com who specializes in genetic evaluation and recommendations to help shore up those genetic cracks in your foundation. Radhia can provide personalized guidance based on your genetic results, ensuring you take the right steps to optimize your health.

How Do You Know Which DNA Test is Right for You?

Choosing the right DNA test depends on your specific health goals and concerns. Here are some steps to guide your decision:

Identify Your Goals: Determine what you hope to learn from the test. Are you looking to assess health risks, explore ancestry, or gain insights into your response to certain medications?Research Available Tests: Look for tests that align with your goals. Some tests focus on health-related genetic information, while others might provide ancestry or lifestyle insights.Consult a Healthcare Professional: Discuss your options with a doctor or genetic counselor. They can help you understand which tests are most relevant for your situation and guide you in interpreting the results.Consider the Cost and Coverage: Evaluate the cost of the test and check if your insurance covers it. This will help you make an informed decision without unexpected expenses.Review the Provider’s Reputation: Choose a reputable company known for reliable testing and clear reporting. Look for customer reviews and consult resources for trustworthy genetic testing services.

Taking Action on Your Genetic Insights

This knowledge doesn’t stop with awareness; it gives you a clear plan of action. Supporting the “cracks” in your genetic foundation with the right diet, supplements, and lifestyle strategies can dramatically improve your quality of life. For those with the MTHFR polymorphism, taking methylated nutrients like 5MTHF (a form of folic acid) and B12 can help. These nutrients compensate for the body’s difficulty processing certain vitamins and reduce the risk of long-term health issues like cardiovascular disease and neurological disorders.

The Power of Personalized Health

Genomic testing empowers you to act. With this knowledge, you can make adjustments to your diet, supplements, and daily routine. By doing so, you reduce stress on your body and optimize your health in ways that were previously impossible.

Enhance Your Health, Not Just Manage It

By understanding your genetic makeup, you don’t just manage your health—you enhance it. This approach helps prevent chronic diseases and degenerative conditions. As a result, you can live a healthier, more vibrant life. Integrating DNA-based recommendations into your routine puts you in control of your health journey.

Why Wait? Take Control of Your Health Today

Predictive genomic testing provides a personalized roadmap to better health. By addressing your body’s unique needs, you can protect yourself from potential future risks. So, why wait? Start living better, not just longer.

Understanding the Distinct Roles ofCertified Clinical Nutritionists and Dietitians

As a seasoned clinical nutritionist, I often encounter a prevalent misconception that blurs the lines between the roles of a Certified Clinical Nutritionist (CCN) and a dietitian. While both professions revolve around nutrition, their training, approaches, and areas of expertise differ significantly.

Dietitians are trained professionals who focus on nutrition, food science, and diet planning. Their primary role is to assess an individual’s nutritional status and requirements, providing guidance on diet plans based on established guidelines like the USDA Dietary Pyramid and exchange lists. Dietitians commonly serve as intermediaries between clients and food service departments in various settings, including hospitals, schools, and other public or private institutions. However, it’s important to note that dietitians typically do not delve into dietary supplements, herbs, homeopathic remedies, or other natural substances. Their focus remains on traditional food sources and structured dietary plans. This limitation can leave gaps for individuals seeking a more holistic approach to nutrition and health.

In contrast, Certified Clinical Nutritionists take a broader and more individualized approach to health. A CCN acknowledges biochemical individuality and emphasizes assessing a person’s nutritional needs to promote optimal physiological function. This approach is gaining traction, supported by a growing body of scientific evidence that underscores the importance of whole foods and nutritional supplements in maintaining health and aiding the body in disease prevention and recovery. Many common health conditions, such as acne, arthritis, asthma, depression, diabetes, hormone imbalances, and irritable bowel syndrome, can often be effectively managed through targeted dietary measures. This holistic perspective is rooted in several key philosophical differences between CCNs and dietitians.

At the core of a CCN’s philosophy is the belief that nutritional deficiencies can lead to a variety of psychological and physical disorders. Research, combined with my two decades of clinical experience, suggests that addressing these deficiencies can significantly improve health outcomes. Furthermore, CCNs recognize that the modern food supply often falls short of nutritional needs due to factors such as depleted soils, harmful farming practices, and the prevalence of pesticides and preservatives. This acknowledgment drives a focus on whole foods and appropriate supplementation.

Understanding an individual’s unique biochemical makeup is crucial for effective nutritional therapy. A CCN utilizes advanced biochemistry and laboratory assessments to tailor dietary recommendations and supplementation to each client. CCNs are trained to recommend therapeutic nutritional supplements based on specific biochemical applications. This training allows us to provide targeted nutritional interventions that can significantly impact a person’s health. The field of clinical nutrition is dynamic, requiring practitioners to engage in ongoing research and education to stay informed about the latest advancements and innovations in nutrition science.

Navigating the dietary supplement landscape can be challenging, especially since the industry in the U.S. is largely self-regulated. This environment can lead to controversy and confusion among consumers. In my practice, I prioritize quality by utilizing only professional-grade supplements. These products undergo rigorous scrutiny and are not available in commercial health food stores or online. Instead, they are sold exclusively to licensed health care practitioners, ensuring a higher standard of quality and effectiveness.

A CCN is trained to use dietary supplements responsibly and for specific therapeutic purposes. Before recommending any product, I conduct thorough laboratory assessments and screening applications to ensure the supplement aligns with my client’s individual needs. This careful approach extends to every aspect of supplementation, including application, acquisition, dosage, and duration. When working with clients, I emphasize the importance of understanding their test results. I take the time to educate them on the rationale behind my recommendations, providing scientific evidence to support my interpretations. My clients are empowered participants in their healing journey, and I encourage them to take an active role in their health and well-being.

The distinction between a Certified Clinical Nutritionist and a dietitian is crucial for anyone seeking guidance on their health journey. While dietitians provide valuable services focused on dietary planning and nutrition assessment, CCNs offer a more personalized, holistic approach that encompasses biochemical individuality and therapeutic supplementation. By understanding these differences, individuals can make informed decisions about their nutritional care, ensuring they receive the most appropriate support for their unique health needs.

Dealing with IBS or other gut-related issue?

Dealing with IBS or other gut-related issue? Our Wellness Director, Radhia, has worked with numerous clients who deal with these problems on a daily basis – including our own staff’s family!

Kade has greatly benefited from the pharmaceutical grade supplements we have at our pharmacy and he has continued to progress since filming.

Let us help you take care of your health this year. Set up an expert consultation with Radhia today.

The post Dealing with IBS or other gut-related issue? appeared first on Radhia Gleis.

What’s Love Got to Do with It?

Valentine’s Day again. Flowers, candy, thoughtful little gifts and all those mushy Hallmark cards: “No matter what happens in life, things are always better with you by my side,” Life may change, but our love will always be the same. “I choose you. Now and forever” Really? Is that true? According to the US Census Bureau nearly 50% of adults in America are single and divorce takes place in the US every 13 seconds. (Wilkinson & Finkbeiner, 2020). So, what does one do with those odds and the consequences of today’s modern cultural shifts? I know.

The post What’s Love Got to Do with It? appeared first on Radhia Gleis.