Ep. 60 | Understanding Allergies, Food Sensitivities and Intolerances with Lisa McPherson, Registered Nutritional Therapist
Ep. 60 | Understanding Allergies, Food Sensitivities and Intolerances with Lisa McPherson, Registered Nutritional Therapist
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In the latest episode of the What the Gut podcast, host Allison engages in an enlightening conversation with Lisa McPherson, a registered nutritional therapist and certified life code genetics practitioner. As a busy mom of four, Lisa brings both personal and professional insight into the intricate world of gut health and food sensitivities. Here, we delve into the key points discussed in this captivating episode:
Navigating Gut Health Challenges with Lisa McPherson
Lisa McPherson has journeyed through her own gut health challenges, beginning when she moved to Dubai in 2007 with her husband and two young children. Her experience prompted her to explore the connection between gut health and food sensitivities after witnessing her children's health issues firsthand. This exploration led her to transition from her previous career to specializing in nutrition.
Lisa's personal story is highly relatable, especially for mothers juggling the demands of family life while managing health challenges. Her struggle with her son's recurrent illnesses and her determination to find solutions highlight the importance of understanding how gut health impacts overall well-being.
Understanding the Impact of Stress on Digestion
One of the central themes in the podcast episode is the profound effect stress has on digestion. Lisa explains that our body's nervous system has two modes—parasympathetic (rest and digest) and sympathetic (fight or flight). In our fast-paced lives, the sympathetic mode often dominates, hindering proper digestion. Lisa advises slowing down and taking deep breaths to activate the rest and digest response, thereby optimizing our digestion.
Distinguishing Between Allergies, Intolerances, and Sensitivities
A major portion of the conversation involved clarifying the distinctions between allergies, intolerances, and sensitivities. Lisa clarifies that allergies are life-threatening reactions that require medical diagnosis, while sensitivities often relate to digestive issues that do not typically involve the immune system. She uses dairy as an example to illustrate these differences, emphasizing the importance of proper diagnosis and understanding the underlying causes rather than simply eliminating foods.
Practical Tips for Lowering Stress and Enhancing Digestion
Lisa offers pragmatic advice on how to reduce stress and enhance digestion. She emphasizes the importance of time management and prioritization, suggesting that we schedule time for important self-care activities like preparing nutritious meals or engaging in exercise. Additionally, she introduces the concept of the stress bank account, encouraging us to balance stress-inducing withdrawals with stress-relieving deposits, such as balanced meals and sufficient sleep.
The Role of Genetics in Gut Health
The discussion also touches on the influence of genetics on gut health. As a life code genetics practitioner, Lisa highlights how genetic testing can provide insights into our predispositions for certain sensitivities or intolerances. However, she stresses the importance of lifestyle modifications that can mitigate genetic vulnerabilities, empowering us to improve our overall health.
Conclusion: Embracing a Holistic Approach to Wellness
In closing, Lisa champions the idea of rebuilding our relationship with food and being mindful of how we eat. By practicing mindfulness and understanding the biological processes involved in digestion, we can enhance our gut health and enjoy food as an integral part of our wellness journey.
For listeners keen on continuing this journey towards holistic health, Allison recommends visiting lisamcphersonnutrition.co.uk for more information on Lisa's work and exploring additional resources available through What the Gut.
Whether you're a busy mom managing family life or someone interested in holistic health, this episode is packed with insights and actionable strategies to help you navigate the complexities of gut health. Engage with this content, and explore how mindful eating and stress reduction can transform your wellness journey.
Connect with Lisa:
Instagram: @lisamcphersonnutrition
Connect with Allison:
Instagram: @allisongetswell
Facebook: allisonandwellness
Website: www.allisonandwellness.com
WELCOME TO WHAT THE GUT
Are you a busy mom seeking balance and wellness? Join me on this journey towards vitality and holistic health. I understand the challenges of juggling endless tasks while striving for a healthier life.
In this podcast, we dive into the nitty-gritty of everyday struggles. From battling fatigue to navigating gut health, I'm here to offer holistic solutions. Say farewell to feeling overwhelmed and let's bring in that vibrant life you've been craving.
I'm Allison, a Holistic Health and Wellness Coach. I've been right where you are, facing the same hurdles. Through faith and functional medicine, I reclaimed my gut health, energy, and well-being. Now, I'm on a mission to help other moms break free from exhaustion and prioritize their health.
This podcast is your haven, providing actionable insights, functional medicine expertise, and tailored lifestyle strategies. Let's unravel the secrets together, empowering you to thrive in motherhood while nurturing your well-being, guided by faith.
