In my recent appearance on Thriving with Diabetes, I discussed the importance of a holistic approach to managing diabetes. Here’s a quick rundown of what we covered: Mindset & Healthy Habits : How cultivating a positive mindset and developing healthy habits can create lasting lifestyle changes. Emotional Wellness & Sleep : The impact of emotional health and quality sleep on blood sugar levels and overall wellness. Physical Activity : The role of daily movement in improving insulin sensitivity and managing diabetes. Reducing Insulin Resistance : A look into what insulin resistance is and how lifestyle adjustments can help. The Power of Support : Building a strong support system to sustain health goals. Catch the full episode on YouTube to discover practical steps to take control of your health journey! Needing help regulating your blood sugar levels? Get my free guide: Sugar Savvy: 3-Day Menu Guide for Influential & Successful Professional Women with Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes

In today’s healthcare landscape, many people are seeking a more comprehensive approach to their health —one that goes beyond symptom management and truly nurtures their overall well-being. As a physician who has transitioned from conventional medicine, I’ve had firsthand experience with the limitations of traditional healthcare. Seeing 25-30 patients a day for 5-10 minutes often left me feeling like my ability to heal was confined to the prescription pad. It was as if I could only be as effective as the drug I could prescribe based on the patient’s insurance. This was not beneficial for me or, more importantly, for my patients. That’s why I moved away from conventional medicine to embrace a more holistic, patient-centered approach that addresses the root causes of illness. I believe strongly in the connection between mind, body, and spirit when it comes to true health. If we only treat symptoms and physical aspects, people will continue to experience sickness rather than achieve genuine wellness. I am choosing to help women and their teenage daughters via Functional Integrative Medicine. So, what does this new approach look like? It starts with lifestyle interventions—focusing on food, movement, sleep, stress management, self-inquiry , and mindset work . I encourage my patients to reflect on the ways they cope with emotional and physical pain and to let go of unhealthy habits. From there, I incorporate nutraceuticals, acupuncture, and, only when necessary, medications. This approach allows the body, mind, and spirit to heal and thrive at a cellular level . Let’s explore the difference between two powerful approaches I use in my practice: Functional Medicine and Integrative Medicine . 🔍 Functional Medicine: Getting to the Root Cause Functional Medicine is all about going beneath the surface. It aims to find the underlying causes of illness by examining how genetics, environment, and lifestyle interact with your body’s systems. 🔬 Focus on Root Causes : Functional medicine doesn’t just aim to manage symptoms. Instead, it seeks to identify and treat the root causes of illness. Whether it’s chronic fatigue, hormonal imbalances, or insulin resistance, understanding what triggers these conditions is key to effective treatment. 🧬 Personalized Approach : Every person’s body is unique, so functional medicine tailors treatment to your genetic makeup, environmental exposures, and lifestyle choices. What works for one person might not work for another, which is why this approach focuses on customized care. ⚖️ Restore Balance : Functional medicine works to restore balance within your body’s systems by addressing root causes like nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, or stress. 🌱 Prevention : By addressing potential health issues before they escalate into serious problems, functional medicine emphasizes prevention. ✨ Integrative Medicine: Mind, Body & Spirit While Functional Medicine dives deep into personalized care at the root level, Integrative Medicine takes a broader, more holistic view. It blends traditional medical practices with alternative therapies, focusing on the well-being of the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. 🌟 Whole-Person Care : Integrative medicine doesn’t just treat the body; it acknowledges the profound connection between mind, body, and spirit. This approach considers emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being as integral parts of the healing process. 🧘‍♀️ Blends Approaches : It combines the best of both worlds—traditional medical practices with complementary therapies like nutrition, acupuncture, yoga, and mindfulness . The result is a holistic treatment plan that addresses every aspect of your health. 🔄 Complementary Practices : Alternative therapies such as acupuncture , nutritional counseling , and mindfulness meditation are key components of integrative medicine. These techniques are woven into conventional care, ensuring that every aspect of health is considered. 🕊️ Empowering Healing : Integrative medicine empowers patients to take an active role in their healing. Rather than just being a passive recipient of care, you become a partner in creating a wellness plan that aligns with your lifestyle and beliefs. 🌿 Japanese Acupuncture (Kiko Style): Precision in Healing One of the key therapies I incorporate into my practice is Japanese Acupuncture (Kiko Style) . This form of acupuncture is known for its precision and gentle techniques, making it highly effective in restoring balance and healing the body. 🌀 Restores Energy Flow : Kiko style focuses on restoring the flow of energy (Qi) through specific meridian points. By stimulating these points, we can correct imbalances that may be causing pain or dysfunction. ✨ Holistic Healing : This form of acupuncture is not just about treating physical symptoms; it works on an emotional and spiritual level as well. It aligns your body’s systems for improved overall health. 🧠 Supports Mental & Emotional Well-being : Acupuncture can also help reduce stress and anxiety, supporting mental clarity and emotional resilience. This is especially important for women balancing demanding careers, family life, and personal health. 💡 Integrative Care : Kiko-style acupuncture fits seamlessly with both functional and integrative medicine, offering a full spectrum of healing that addresses the entire body. 🌟 Which Path is Right for You and Your Daughter? Many of my patients—particularly influential women and their teenage daughters—are curious about which approach is right for them. The truth is, that both functional and integrative medicine offer valuable insights and treatments. Functional medicine is ideal if you’re looking for personalized, root-cause-focused care that targets chronic issues like hormone imbalances, metabolic disorders, or autoimmune conditions. Integrative medicine is perfect for those seeking a holistic approach that includes both conventional and alternative therapies, focusing on mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being alongside physical health. 🎯 Ready to Transform? Whether you’re exploring these approaches for yourself or your teenage daughter, now is the perfect time to take charge of your health. By addressing the root causes, embracing holistic healing, and incorporating powerful therapies like Kiko-style acupuncture, you can achieve true wellness for both body and spirit. Take the next step : Book a consultation today and start your health journey with personalized care.

I recently had the honor of joining Amy Connell on the Graced Health Podcast to dive into an important discussion about diabetes, insulin resistance, and how hormonal shifts impact women over 40. In this episode, we explore key concepts surrounding blood sugar management and the connection between physical health and spiritual well-being. Key Highlights from Our Discussion: Understanding Diabetes : The different types of diabetes and how each one affects the body. Glycemic Index Explained : A clear breakdown of what the glycemic index is and how it plays a role in blood sugar control. Tips for Managing Insulin Sensitivity : Practical strategies for improving your insulin sensitivity naturally. The Importance of Community Support : Why having a support system is essential in managing diabetes. Caring for Your Body Spiritually : How faith and spirituality can play a role in maintaining a healthy body and mind. If you’re navigating the challenges of diabetes, insulin resistance, or hormonal changes, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you take charge of your health! Watch the Full Episode on YouTube Click below to watch the full interview: Graced Health Podcast: Diabetes, Insulin Resistance, and Hormonal Changes in Women Over 40

When we think of metabolic health , the first thing that comes to mind is weight loss . However, metabolic health is much more than that. It’s about how our bodies produce and use energy from the carbohydrates and fats we eat. For both women and their teenage daughters, balancing metabolic health can mean the difference between thriving and facing chronic issues like hormonal imbalances, high blood pressure, and persistent stress. Acupuncture offers a natural, holistic approach to support your body’s ability to regain balance and energy. What Is Metabolic Health? More Than Weight Loss Metabolic health refers to how your body produces and uses energy. It involves: Efficient conversion of carbs and fats into energy Stable blood sugar levels Healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels Balanced blood pressure Key Hormones That Impact Metabolic Health Your metabolic health is influenced by hormones, such as: Insulin: Controls blood sugar and fat storage Cortisol: Stress hormone that can disrupt metabolism Thyroid Hormones: Regulate metabolism and energy levels Leptin: Governs appetite and fat storage Adiponectin: Helps regulate glucose and the breakdown of fatty acids The Consequences of Metabolic Dysfunction Symptoms Women and Teens Face When your metabolic health is out of balance, you may experience: Blood sugar imbalances ( Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes ) Menstrual problems and infertility ( PCOS ) Elevated blood pressure ( Hypertension ) High triglycerides ( Hyperlipidemia ) Worsened thyroid function Increased stress and anxiety due to high cortisol levels Metabolic dysfunction doesn’t just lead to weight gain; it can affect nearly every aspect of your physical and emotional well-being. How Acupuncture Helps Restore Metabolic Health Balancing Hormones Naturally Acupuncture helps regulate the key hormones that impact metabolic health: Reduces high cortisol levels to alleviate stress Supports insulin regulation to manage blood sugar levels Enhances thyroid function, improving energy and metabolism Reducing Sugar Cravings & Blood Pressure Regular acupuncture sessions can also: Reduce sugar cravings by balancing appetite hormones like leptin Lower blood pressure through improved circulation and stress reduction Achieving Healthier Weight By addressing the underlying hormonal imbalances, acupuncture promotes: Better fat metabolism Reduced bloating and water retention Long-term sustainable weight loss without drastic diets The Power of Acupuncture for Teenagers Supporting Teen Hormonal Health For teenage daughters, acupuncture can help: Regulate menstrual cycles Improve mood and reduce anxiety Support healthy body image by promoting balanced weight Metabolic health is about so much more than weight loss. It's about ensuring your body efficiently uses energy and stays balanced, affecting everything from hormonal health to stress levels. Acupuncture offers a holistic way to reset your metabolic health and achieve lasting vitality for both women of influence and their teenage daughters. By harmonizing hormones, reducing stress, and promoting healthy energy use, acupuncture can be a powerful tool in your health journey. Take the Next Step: If you’re ready to explore how acupuncture can improve your metabolic health, schedule a consultation today!

Why I Chose to Add Acupuncture to My Services True healing goes beyond simply addressing symptoms. It's about getting to the root cause , bringing the mind and body into harmony, and finding a path to real, lasting transformation. Acupuncture is one of those powerful tools I’ve chosen to offer because of its ability to support this deeper kind of healing. In my own journey with back pain , stress , sleep issues , and trauma , acupuncture became an essential part of my recovery. It’s gentle, yet profoundly effective, with minimal side effects. What’s even more remarkable is how healing happens in the body and with the body —working in alignment with your natural systems rather than against them. What Is Acupuncture? Acupuncture is an ancient practice that involves the insertion of small, painless needles into specific points on the body, which helps bring balance to the body's meridians . These needles work by stimulating substances in your nervous system and the extracellular matrix —the network between the cells of your body. The result? A cascade of healing effects that can improve both physical and mental well-being. What Can Acupuncture Help With? Research and clinical practice have shown that acupuncture can benefit a wide range of health issues, including: Reducing cravings (whether for sugar, nicotine, or other substances) Managing and reducing chronic pain Balancing hormones (such as for women in perimenopause or with conditions like PCOS) Improving mental well-being (reducing stress, anxiety, and enhancing sleep Chinese vs. Japanese Acupuncture: What’s the Difference? One of the most fascinating distinctions in acupuncture lies in the difference between Chinese and Japanese acupuncture styles. Chinese Acupuncture : Focuses on treating fixed anatomical points based on established meridians. Japanese Acupuncture : Centers around what practitioners call "alive points." These points are found using palpation (a hands-on approach to feel along the meridians) to identify where energy imbalances exist in the moment. Why Wait? Consider Acupuncture First, Not Last Many people turn to acupuncture only after other modalities have failed. But what if this powerful healing tool was used first , or at least alongside other treatments? Acupuncture can be an excellent complement to therapies like nutrition, physical therapy, or even counseling. The combination can create a more holistic and effective healing journey. Incorporating acupuncture may help speed up healing, enhance the effects of other treatments, and lead to a more balanced , harmonious life. Acupuncture has been a game-changer for me, and I am excited to share this journey with others. Whether you’re dealing with pain, cravings, or seeking better balance in your life, acupuncture is a gentle yet powerful modality that could make all the difference.

Experiences of pain and shock, whether physical, emotional, or psychological, can leave lasting scars on your mental and physical health. Recent research in the field of epigenetics has revealed that trauma can also leave molecular marks on our DNA, influencing gene expression without altering the genetic code itself. These changes can have profound implications for your health and can subsequent generations. Epigenetic modifications can be influenced by a variety of environmental factors, including diet, stress, and, notably, traumatic events. The Mechanisms of Trauma-Induced Epigenetic Changes DNA Methylation: DNA methylation involves the addition of a methyl group to the DNA molecule. Traumatic events have been shown to alter methylation patterns in genes associated with stress responses and emotional regulation. Yes, you can be more susceptible to anxiety. Histone Modification: Histones are proteins around which DNA is wrapped, and their chemical modification can affect gene accessibility and expression. Trauma can influence histone, these modifications can affect genes involved in neural plasticity, stress responses, and inflammation. Yes, you can develop autoimmune disease. Non-Coding RNAs: Non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs, can regulate gene expression, impacting genes related to brain function and stress responses. Yes, you can develop PTSD or depression. Is this evidence-based medicine or a marketing tactic? Childhood Trauma and DNA Methylation: Research has demonstrated that individuals who experienced severe childhood trauma exhibit distinct methylation patterns in genes associated with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a critical system in the body's stress response. Transgenerational Epigenetic Inheritance: Animal studies have provided evidence that the epigenetic effects of trauma can be passed down to offspring. Trauma and Brain Function: Trauma-induced epigenetic changes can impact brain function and structure. These changes can affect neural connectivity and brain regions associated with memory, emotion, and cognition. Trauma can have far-reaching effects on your epigenome, influencing gene expression and potentially contributing to the development of various health issues. At Salud Revisited we are elevating personalized medicine by offering 3x4 Genetic Tests and Genova Metabolomix+ Testing. So, this is no trick, schedule your FREE Optimize Your Genes call.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Personalized medicine, through the integration of genetics and epigenetics, offers new avenues for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of heart disease. Understanding the genetic and epigenetic factors that contribute to heart health can lead to more effective and individualized interventions. The Role of Genetics in Heart Health Genetic Predispositions: Certain genetic variations are known to increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. For example, mutations in the LDLR gene can cause familial hypercholesterolemia, leading to high cholesterol levels and an increased risk of heart disease. Similarly, variants in the APOE gene can influence lipid metabolism and cardiovascular risk. Polygenic Risk Scores (PRS): Polygenic risk scores aggregate the effects of multiple genetic variants to estimate an individual's risk of developing heart disease. These scores can help identify individuals at high risk who may benefit from early and aggressive preventive measures. For instance, a high PRS for coronary artery disease can prompt proactive management of risk factors such as hypertension and hyperlipidemia. The Impact of Epigenetics on Heart Health Epigenetic Modifications and Cardiovascular Disease: Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, regulate gene expression involved in cardiovascular function and pathology. Environmental factors like diet, physical activity, and stress can induce epigenetic changes that impact heart health. Epigenetic Biomarkers: DNA methylation patterns in genes related to inflammation and endothelial function have been linked to the development of atherosclerosis and hypertension. These biomarkers can aid in early detection and monitoring of disease progression. Transgenerational Epigenetic Effects: Epigenetic changes induced by environmental factors and lifestyle can be passed down to subsequent generations. Maternal diet and stress levels during pregnancy can affect the epigenetic landscape of the offspring, influencing their risk of developing cardiovascular diseases later in life. Integration of Genetics and Epigenetics in Personalized Medicine for Heart Health Comprehensive Risk Assessment: Combining genetic and epigenetic information provides a more detailed risk assessment for cardiovascular diseases. Tailored Preventive Strategies: Personalized medicine can develop tailored preventive strategies based on an individual's genetic and epigenetic profile. Precision Treatment: Understanding both genetic and epigenetic factors can optimize treatment strategies for cardiovascular diseases. Personalized medicine, informed by genetics and epigenetics, needs to be an added tool in your heart health care plan. If you are an executive professional woman concerned about chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations? Do you want to strengthen your heart health naturally and live free of the fear of not being there for your loved ones? Are you tired of endless doctor visits, pills, and stressing about what and how to eat? Are you ready to finally break free from strict dieting? Then it is time for a functional approach to your health, schedule a FREE Optimize Your Gene call.

Personalized medicine is a transformative approach in healthcare, tailoring medical treatment to the individual characteristics of each patient. As our understanding of our genes and their regulation deepens, personalized medicine is poised to revolutionize the way we prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases. It is a new tool to help you stay healthy, wealthy, and free. The Role of Genetics Our genes provide the foundation for understanding how various genetic variations contribute to individual differences in disease susceptibility, drug responses, and overall health. Genetic Variability and Disease Risk: Individual genetic differences can significantly affect disease risk. For instance, mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are linked to a higher risk of breast and ovarian cancers. Genetic testing allows for the identification of such risk factors, enabling preventive measures or early interventions. Pharmacogenomics: Pharmacogenomics examines how genes affect a person's response to drugs. Genetic testing can guide physicians in selecting the right medication and dosage, minimizing adverse effects, and maximizing efficacy. The Impact of Epigenetics Epigenetics are the changes in gene expression influenced by various factors, including environment, lifestyle, and disease states. Epigenetic Modifications: Epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA interaction can regulate gene activity. These modifications can be influenced by external factors like diet, stress, and exposure to toxins, which in turn affect an individual's health and disease risk. Disease Detection and Treatment: Epigenetic markers are increasingly being used in disease detection and treatment. For example, abnormal DNA methylation patterns are associated with various cancers and can serve as early biomarkers for detection. Genetics and Epigenetics Power Tools for Personalized Medicine The marriage of genetics and epigenetics offers a comprehensive understanding of your health. Integrating these fields can enhance the precision of your personalized healthcare plan. Comprehensive Risk Assessment: Combining genetic and epigenetic information provides a more complete picture of disease risk. For instance, while genetic predispositions can indicate potential health issues, epigenetic modifications can reveal how lifestyle and environmental factors might influence gene expression and actual disease manifestation. Personalized medicine, underpinned by advances in genetics and epigenetics, holds the promise of more precise, effective, and individualized healthcare. At Salud Revisited we offer Genova Genetic Testing, which includes methylation study. So, if you think this is a marketing gimmick, still schedule your FREE call Optimize Your Genes.

Personalized medicine, leveraging the advancements in genetics and epigenetics, is transforming our understanding of metabolic health and dysfunction. Metabolic disorders, such as obesity, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol, have complex etiologies influenced by genetic predispositions and environmental factors. Personalized medicine, through genetic and epigenetic insights, can enhance the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of metabolic disorders. Why is this important? Genetic variations play a significant role in determining your susceptibility to metabolic disorders. Polygenic risk scores, which aggregate the effects of numerous genetic variants, can predict your risk of developing metabolic disorders. These scores can guide personalized prevention strategies. The Impact of Epigenetics on Metabolic Health Environmental factors, including diet, physical activity, and stress, can induce epigenetic changes that impact metabolic health. Maternal nutrition during pregnancy can have lasting epigenetic effects on the offspring's metabolic health. Identifying epigenetic biomarkers can improve the diagnosis and prognosis of metabolic disorders. Integration of Genetics and Epigenetics in Personalized Medicine - How Your Healthcare Plan Can Be Elevated Comprehensive Risk Assessment: Combining genetic and epigenetic data provides a more complete picture of your risk for metabolic disorders. For example, while genetic testing might reveal a predisposition to obesity, epigenetic analysis can show how lifestyle factors are modulating this risk. Targeted Interventions: Personalized medicine can tailor interventions based on genetic and epigenetic profiles. Individuals with a genetic predisposition to insulin resistance but favorable epigenetic markers might respond well to dietary interventions, while those with adverse epigenetic changes might benefit from more aggressive medical treatments. Precision Nutrition: Precision nutrition aims to optimize dietary recommendations based on an individual's genetic and epigenetic makeup. For example, genetic variations in the TCF7L2 gene affect an individual's response to dietary fat and carbohydrate intake, influencing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Personalized dietary plans can help mitigate these risks and promote metabolic health. So, maybe you are tired of trying diet, exercise, and pills. You wonder if there is something else going on in your body that your blood sugar numbers and cholesterol do not improve. You have big challenges losing weight and feeling tired all day, no matter how well you sleep. If you are an influential professional woman who is struggling with your metabolic health, you do not need to feel like a failure or that it is your fault. Consider personalized medicine. Schedule your free Optimize Your Genes call.

If you have an autoimmune condition that affects your joints and you live with redness, swelling, or pain this fun conversation with Dr. Dada from Bellevue, WA will provide you with some tools and ideas to use movement, specifically yoga, to improve your mobility so you can enjoy life and live pain-free. Watch the video on YouTube, Dr. Dada's channel, Healthy Joints - Healthy Life, is full of great info.

Join me in an inspiring conversation with Dr. Jedha from Diabetes Meal Plans as we talk about the importance of NOT a "one-size fits all" approach to your health journey and how embracing what makes you human should be above chasing symptoms. Listen to the podcast HERE.

I work daily with many professional women who have prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes who struggle to lower their blood sugar levels. And to be honest I hear the same struggles from each one and answer the same questions every day. So, I am going to break them down here... Challenge #1: I do not know what to eat, because eating healthy does not taste good. Usually, is not that people "do not know". I find that people are confused and overwhelmed with all the noise in the media...keto, portion control, carnivore diet, intermittent fasting...which one will work? Yes, there is a lot of nutrition information that can be simplified to eat more plant-rich fiber (I did not say salads only! And then add quality protein and fat. Finally, eliminate sources of sugar and reduce saturated fat. Many times the "healthy food does not taste good" is a combination of taste buds exposed for many years to hyperpalable foods and mindset. We have been exposed to food that is packaged with sugar, salt, and fat. These activate dopamine and opioid receptors in the brain. Aka, they taste good and make you feel good...so you eat more of them, and the cycle continues. Many people are stuck. Does eating healthy mean a boring iceberg lettuce salad? Nope! Opening ourselves to trying new foods and meals rich in fiber and low in saturated fat will give you plenty of tasty options. Challenge #2: I can not give up sugar! I crave sugar. First, you do not need to refine sugar to survive. The sugar that is already in food items like fruits, veggies, legumes, and grains is what your body needs to function. Second, eliminating table sugar and artificial sweeteners will have many health benefits. Consider using monk fruit, Stevia, and agave for healthier options to add sweetness to your taste buds. Third, cravings...they will dissipate, but your brain needs time. Your body is not a microwave! The more you give into the refined/table sugar craving the longer it will take to heal your brain. When your body wants something sweet go for fruit, movement, and breath. Challenge #3: I do not have time. Let me ask you a question...How many years younger do want to die? How many years do you want to live with a disability? Cooking healthy meals can be done in 30 minutes or less and give you back years to your life. Have you thought of kitchen hacks to help you prep food faster without sacrificing health? Many little things can be added on. We have become so used to "fast food" and "microwave", but these are cheap options that will produce cheap results when it comes to balancing your blood sugar levels. If any of these sound like your challenges, I offer a FREE Sugar Balance Assessment call for successful professional women in Texas, Colorado, Arizona, and Washington living with prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes.