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Binge eating is a common eating disorder that affects individuals of all ages and backgrounds. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at what binge eating really is and who it affects. So let's dive in and explore this complex and often misunderstood topic together. What is binge eating and how its diagnosed Binge Eating Disorder diagnosis criteria involve recurrent binge eating episodes, with distinct attributes: consuming large quantities of food in a restricted time frame (such as any 2-hour period), and experiencing loss of control over the eating episode. Both elements combined define an episode of binge eating. A minimum of three associated behaviours often accompany these episodes, including: rapid consumption of food, eating to discomfort, ingesting large amounts despite not feeling hungry, solitary eating due to embarrassment, or feelings of self-disgust, depression, or extreme guilt afterwards. These conditions must persist at a frequency of once per week for a duration of three months for Binge Eating Disorder diagnosis to be considered, according to the DSM-5 criteria for this eating disorder. Despite these stringent criteria necessary for diagnosis, binge eating exists on a continuum, ranging from occasional overeating to severe eating disorders. This continuum encompasses a spectrum of behaviours and severities, recognising that individuals might experience varying degrees of distress or impairment related to their eating habits, emphasising the need for a nuanced understanding of binge eating beyond the specific diagnostic criteria. Binge eating can be also a distressing symptom of other eating disorders and is for example common in bulimia nervosa. According to the charity Action Mental Health binge eating disorder is impacting approximately 1 in 50 individuals in the UK, with women being more commonly affected. It's often a long-standing issue, lasting an average of 14-16 years, and is more frequently seen in individuals between ages 16 and 40. Binge eating isn't always easy to diagnose Binge eating is not isolated; it often coexists with mood and anxiety disorders, highlighting the complex interplay between mental health and binge eating. We discuss this further in our blog on the impact of binge eating on mental and physical health. Moreover, many individuals do not fit within the current diagnostic criteria, as binge eating exists at subthreshold levels among the general population, causing equal distress despite not meeting the established diagnostic thresholds. This highlights the importance of acknowledging and addressing a broader spectrum of individuals affected by binge eating-related distress beyond the strict diagnostic guidelines. The experience of urges and cravings stands as a hallmark characteristic of binge eating episodes are often a central aspect of the binging behaviour. These powerful sensations can often override feelings of satiety and lead to uncontrollable consumption of large amounts of food. How dieting and binge eating are connected Dieting is a major factor for the onset of the binge eating disorder. It is well-documented that dieting increases the risk of overeating to counteract caloric deprivation. These dietary restraints lead to extreme hunger and preoccupation with food, which may lead to periods of uncontrolled binge eating or eating more than planned. This leads to a vicious cycle known as the binge cycle. Another function of binge eating is to regulate, control or numb unpleasant moods or feelings. Additionally, negative emotions such as guilt and shame around being out of control with food usually lead to more binge eating or some sufferers will call it a ‘binge – guilt – worry – repeat’ cycle. Studies suggest that certain biological factors like genetics and hormonal irregularities can also contribute to the development of binge eating disorder. Notably, those with a family history of eating disorders are at a higher risk. Imposed strict limits on eating and eating too little creates a mounting psychological and physiological pressure to eat. Once eating starts it can be difficult to stop, but not because of lack of will powder, but because of various biochemical and nutritional imbalances that arise in the body and need to be addressed alongside the psychological and emotional triggers. Environmental factors can heavily impact our eating behaviours. Easy availability of palatable and convenient food options, along with peer pressure in social gatherings involving overeating can trigger binges. Dysfunctional family dynamics and unhealthy eating habits promoted at home may contribute to the problem. Influence of social media promoting unrealistic body standards or popularising fad diets often lead to unhealthy eating patterns. Additionally, misconceptions about healthy eating and misunderstanding portion sizes can amplify the frequency of binge eating episodes. It's also important to consider how an individual's relationship with their own body image and self-esteem can trigger binge eating, especially during times of self-doubt and dissatisfaction. Additionally, increased screen time may lead to mindless eating or snacking. Binge eating is a complex and often misunderstood eating disorder that affects individuals of all ages and backgrounds. It can be a distressing experience, leading to feelings of guilt, shame, and loss of control. Understanding the factors that contribute to binge eating, such as dieting and emotional triggers, is crucial for addressing and managing the disorder. By acknowledging the broader spectrum of individuals affected by binge eating-related distress, we can work towards a more nuanced understanding and provide support for those struggling with this disorder. Remember, you are not alone, and there is help available. If you think you may have a negative relationship with food and would like some help, then please reach out to us for support with our dedicated eating disorder and food relationship specialist. Irina Pollastri Registered Nutritional Therapist, Health Coach, Eating Disorder and Obesity Specialist Dip CNM, mBANT, mANP, mCNHC, NCFED Irina has a special interest in eating disorders and disordered eating, such as binge eating, bulimia, chronic dieting, restrictive eating, emotional eating, and poor relationship with food in general. To provide support in these areas and any co-occurring health conditions, Irina offers a personalised approach, which combines nutritional, behavioural, and psychological interventions. We do not attempt to prevent, treat or cure any physical, mental or emotional issues. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this website. Do not start or stop taking any medications without speaking to your primary health care provider.

Fad diets often promote quick weight loss through drastic caloric restriction, elimination of entire food groups, or excessive focus on one type of food. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies, slow metabolism, and eventually weight regain. Additionally, they are often not sustainable long-term, and do not address the root causes of unhealthy eating habits. Fad diets for weight loss often fail for several reasons: Restrictive nature: Most diets restrict certain foods or entire food groups, making them difficult to follow long-term. Lack of sustainability: Rapid weight loss from diets is often not sustainable, and people tend to gain the weight back once they return to their normal eating habits. Metabolic adaptation: Drastic caloric restriction can slow down metabolism, making it harder for the body to burn calories and lose weight. Not addressing the root causes: Diets treat the symptoms of poor eating habits rather than addressing the underlying psychological and behavioural issues that contribute to them. Focusing on weight rather than health: The primary focus on weight rather than overall health can lead to a negative relationship with food and body image. Additionally, extreme diets can disrupt the balance of hormones such as leptin and ghrelin that regulate hunger and fullness, causing a person to experience cravings, feel constantly hungry and lead to binge eating or overeating. Also, when the body is in a calorie-deficit, it may break down muscle tissue for energy, resulting in loss of muscle mass, which slows down the metabolism further. Furthermore, the composition of gut bacteria can change in response to changes in diet, potentially affecting digestion, metabolism, and other aspects of health. It is important to note though, that this biological adaptation can vary greatly depending on the type and duration of the diet, as well as individual differences in genetics, metabolism, and lifestyle. A common scenario with dieting is trying to restrict caloric intake to lose weight, often by cutting out certain foods, limiting portion sizes, or following a specific diet plan. However, many people struggle with sticking to their diet plan long-term, and may experience feelings of deprivation, cravings, and difficulties maintaining the diet in social situations. As a result, they may experience weight loss, followed by weight regain, a pattern commonly referred to as "yo-yo dieting." Consequently, many dieters believe that they are not “good at dieting” and fail the diet, whereas THE TRUTH IS THAT THE DIET FAILS THEM due to all reasons outlined above. Therefore, a personalised approach which takes individual characteristics into account and helps to establish a health-promoting and meaningful long-term relationship with food, activity, and one’s body is the key to success. Want to get on top of your health and receive further guidance? Book in with Irina, our diet and disordered eating specialist today to discuss your concerns in a commitment free call. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Irina Pollastri Registered Nutritional Therapist Dip CNM, mBANT, mANP, mCNHC, NCFED Irina has a special interest in eating disorders and disordered eating, such as binge eating, bulimia, chronic dieting, restrictive eating, emotional eating, and poor relationship with food in general. To provide support in these areas and any co-occurring health conditions, Irina offers a personalised approach, which combines nutritional, behavioural, and psychological interventions. I am not attempting to prevent, treat or cure any physical, mental or emotional issues. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this website. Do not start or stop taking any medications without speaking to your primary health care provider.

Body image refers to the mental representation and perception we have of our own bodies. It's shaped by various factors such as personal experiences, cultural and societal norms, media exposure, and self-esteem. A healthy body image means having a positive and realistic perception of one's body, whereas an unhealthy body image is characterised by negative self-esteem and a distorted view of one's appearance. Unfortunately, today, many people struggle with body image issues. The media constantly bombards us with images of idealised bodies, leading to feelings of inadequacy and a distorted perception of what is considered "normal". This can result in negative thoughts, behaviours, and emotions related to one's body and appearance. Improving your body image can be a challenging process, but there are several steps you can take to build a more positive relationship with your body: Limit exposure to media that promotes unrealistic body standards: Be mindful of the media you consume, and limit exposure to images and messages that promote unrealistic body standards. Remember, no one is forcing you to follow someone's account. Challenge negative thoughts: When you notice negative thoughts about your body, challenge them by questioning their accuracy and reframing them in a more positive light. Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend. Focus on your strengths and accept your body for what it is. Engage in physical activity: Regular exercise can improve your mood, boost your self-esteem, and help you appreciate your body for what it can do. Surround yourself with positive influences: People who support and respect you for who you are, rather than focusing on your appearance. Focus on health, not appearance: Shift your focus from how your body looks to how it feels and functions. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep are important steps towards improving your overall health and well-being. Seek support: Consider seeking help from a nutritional therapist or mental health professional, who can help you work through body image issues and develop a more positive relationship with your body. It is essential to remember that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and there is no one "perfect" body type. Everyone's body is unique and changes over time and the most important thing is to learn to appreciate it for what it is. Also, improving your body image is a process, and it may take time and effort. Be patient and kind to yourself, and know that a positive body image is possible with dedication and effort. If you or someone you know is struggling with disordered eating or an eating disorder, it is critical to seek help and support as early detection and treatment can improve outcomes and lead to a full recovery. That said, full recovery is possible at any age and no matter how long one has been struggling with disordered eating or an eating disorder. Want further guidance? Book in with Irina, our disordered eating specialist today to discuss your concerns in a commitment free call. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Irina Pollastri Registered Nutritional Therapist Dip CNM, mBANT, mANP, mCNHC, NCFED Irina has a special interest in eating disorders and disordered eating, such as binge eating, bulimia, chronic dieting, restrictive eating, emotional eating, and poor relationship with food in general. To provide support in these areas and any co-occurring health conditions, Irina offers a personalised approach, which combines nutritional, behavioural, and psychological interventions. I am not attempting to prevent, treat or cure any physical, mental or emotional issues. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this website. Do not start or stop taking any medications without speaking to your primary health care provider.

Disordered eating and eating disorders are often confused with one another, and sometimes used interchangeably. While they may have some similarities, they are distinct from one another and require different approaches to treatment. Eating behaviours exist on a spectrum and are not always clearly defined. At one end is a healthy relationship with food and at the other end of the spectrum are eating disorders, leaving disordered eating somewhere between these two. Disordered eating can commonly involve many of the same behaviours as eating disorders, but these occur with less frequency or intensity. Disordered eating refers to a range of eating behaviours and attitudes and is often driven by a desire to control one's weight or shape and may not necessarily be accompanied by significant distress or impairment in daily functioning. These can include the following unhealthy eating behaviours: Obsession with weight control Chronic dieting Caloric restriction, such as skipping meals Frequent comparison of own food choices to that of others Adoption of rigid food rules Anxiety and fear around food Compensatory behaviours, such as “making up” for a binge by restricting, purging, or over-exercising Worries about body image Obsessive preoccupation with ‘pure’ or ‘clean’ foods (i.e., orthorexia) which leads to important dietary restrictions and the severity of which can range from disordered eating to an eating disorder Some of these disordered eating behaviours might not be diagnosed as eating disorders as they might not meet certain criteria in terms of frequency and severity. That said, they are still harmful, often cause physical and emotional distress, and can have physical consequences. Additionally, disordered eating and dieting is a strong predictor of developing an eating disorder. Eating disorders, on the other hand, are serious mental illnesses that involve abnormal and unhealthy eating behaviours that become obsessive and all-consuming. The most common eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. These disorders often involve a distorted body image and a preoccupation with weight and shape, and can have a severe impact on physical health, relationships, work, mood, quality of life and carry an increased risk of medical complications. It is important to recognise the difference between disordered eating and an eating disorder, as the severity of the behaviours and the level of impairment can vary significantly. Disordered eating may not necessarily progress to an eating disorder, but it can be a risk factor for the development of one. If you or someone you know is struggling with disordered eating or an eating disorder, it is critical to seek help and support as early detection and treatment can improve outcomes and lead to a full recovery. That said, full recovery is possible at any age and no matter how long one has been struggling with disordered eating or an eating disorder. Want further guidance? Book in with Irina, our disordered eating specialist today to discuss your concerns in a commitment free call. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Irina Pollastri Registered Nutritional Therapist Dip CNM, mBANT, mANP, mCNHC, NCFED Irina has a special interest in eating disorders and disordered eating, such as binge eating, bulimia, chronic dieting, restrictive eating, emotional eating, and poor relationship with food in general. To provide support in these areas and any co-occurring health conditions, Irina offers a personalised approach, which combines nutritional, behavioural, and psychological interventions. I am not attempting to prevent, treat or cure any physical, mental or emotional issues. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this website. Do not start or stop taking any medications without speaking to your primary health care provider.

If you’re currently trying to get pregnant, anything less than immediate success can be stressful. You may be asking yourself, what’s wrong with me or my partner and why are we having difficulties? Although it can be tempting to turn to fertility testing at this point, it’s important to remember that it’s perfectly normal for many couples not to conceive straight away. If you go to your local GP they will generally advise women 35 or younger to try for at least 1 year before considering investigative testing. This is 6 months for women over 35 due to age related infertility. When you’ve made the decision to have a baby, waiting 6 months to a year for answers can seem like a lifetime. If you do decide that you’d like to have a fertility test done, you have options. You can either test your fertility at home or reach out to a healthcare provider who can look at your and your partner’s fertility using several methods—including blood tests looking at basic reproductive hormones, ultrasounds to check for structural issues, and for men, semen analysis designed to identify male infertility issues, such as low sperm count (Walker, 2021). Here you’ll find information about more comprehensive fertility testing options for men and women. These tests will give you a detailed overview of your current health and can help identify any underlying issues that are driving your infertility struggles. Women's Testing To Consider: A full blood panel looking at reproductive hormones (oestrogen, progesterone, LH, FSH, prolactin, SHBG, Testosterone), a complete thyroid panel (including T3, T4 and thyroid antibodies), vitamin D status and blood sugar levels in the form of HbA1C. AMH levels: This test measures a hormone called Anti-Mullerian hormone, which is an indicator of a woman's egg count. Ovaries can make thousands of eggs during our childbearing years, but this number will begin to fall as a woman gets older. AMH levels help show how many potential egg cells a woman has left. Not, it is not however a marker of the quality of these eggs. Dutch Test Cycle Mapping: This test examines your hormone levels and their metabolites throughout your cycle, monitoring your follicular phase, ovulation and luteal phase, as well as your response to cortisol (our stress hormone) and how these may be impacting your overall fertility and chances of conception Vaginal Microbiome Health: Fertility is not just all about our reproductive hormones and the timing of intercourse. This test assesses the vaginal microbiome – a key ecosystem for female health and reproductive optimisation. It can provide an accurate analysis of the microbiota abundance, inflammatory markers and pH. Disruption of microbiota composition and functions, termed dysbiosis, has been linked to a multitude of disorders, including: bacterial vaginosis (BV), premature delivery in pregnant women, infertility & miscarriages Men's Testing To Consider: A comprehensive male hormone panel: Key markers to identify are testosterone, SHBG and prolactin. Comet Test/ DNA Fragmentation: A test designed to identify sperm DNA damage, which is the leading cause of male infertility. Men with high levels of damaged sperm DNA are less likely to get their partner pregnant and have double the risk of miscarriage. Even if your sperm count is normal, the sperm may not be of good enough quality, and this test will identify if this is the case and allow you to focus on a nutrition and lifestyle approach that will maximise reduction in DNA damage. It's worth noting that test results can be extremely daunting when you don't fully know what they mean. The best way to do fertility tests is under the supervision of a nutritional therapist who can not only interpret the tests for you, but give you practical nutrition, supplement and lifestyle advice on what you can do to improve your results. Want further guidance? Book in with our fertility specialist Gail today to discuss a bespoke nutrition and lifestyle plan that can optimise your fertility journey. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Gail Madalena Registered Nutritional Therapist Dip CNM, mBANT, mANP, mCNHC Gail Madalena is a registered nutritional therapist specialising in fertility, pregnancy and women’s health. Her expertise lies in hormonal imbalances, such as irregular cycles, debilitating PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, thyroid issues and sub-optimal fertility. Her goal is to reduce hormonal side effects and symptoms by addressing the root cause of the issue. Gail helps couples optimise your nutrition and lifestyle choices, supporting you on your journey to achieving a healthy pregnancy. I am not attempting to prevent, treat or cure any physical, mental or emotional issues. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this website. Do not start or stop taking any medications without speaking to your primary health care provider.

What were her symptoms? I started seeing Tina after the Covid lockdown restrictions, where she, like many others, were struggling with the repercussions of reduced social contact and increase in WFH. These feelings of loneliness had exacerbated Tina's symptoms and stress leading her to reach out to The Natural Balance for help. Tina's symptoms were varied but seem to be connected to a few key life events: Overseas trip to Tunisia in 2013 The aftermath of a negative relationship Longterm antibiotic use from 2010 Stressful job In our initial consultation we identified her primary concerns and pieced together how the above events were connected: Bloating and irregular bowel movements started after Tunisia trip Mild acne which flares up in line with gut health Bacterial vaginosis which started after taking antibiotics for acne In addition, these primary concerns were accompanied with other less desirable symptoms such as thinning hair, weakened immune system, worsening hayfever, slight change in period cycle length, lowered confidence especially in relationship, low motivation, poor sleep and fatigue. Where did we start? First things first, we reviewed what Tina was eating so we could try to get the bloating minimised and improve the regularity of her bowel movements. Often, getting this natural bodily function into routine is a huge win for clients and greatly improves their daily mood. Tina was already aware of some foods that were possible triggers, such as dairy, garlic and onion, so we started a FODMAP protocol whereby we could assess through the process of reintroduction what foods were the specific triggers. We had calls every week during month one and then we moved to calls every 2 weeks. This gave us enough time at the start to really support her with the minefield which can be FODMAP and as Tina gained confidence we spaced out the calls so the body had more time to heal. Secondly, Tina was instructed to try to find ways to relax and wind down. Her highly stressful job and poor sleep routine was not giving her body a chance to rest, recover or repair. Stress is a common contributor to inflammation and as were were trying to soothe her gut and skin, additional stress would work against us. Some simple changes Tina made were that she started to journal before bed, or put her phone away and read instead, and reintroduced yoga a few times a week. Within 6 - 8 weeks Tina's bowel movements were more regular and of better consistency, bloating was reduced and episodes of smelly gas almost completely gone. Her mental health was improving too, and she was able to pin point exact triggers in her day whether this be due to work, or eating foods that she were triggers. What did we do long term? Long term the focus was on Tina's hormonal health; her acne, thinning hair and vaginal microbiome. A combination of supplements were used in conjunction with a FODMAP protocol to rebalance both her gut and vaginal microbiome. This makes it easier for her body to support a healthy blood sugar balance which is vital keeping hormones in check. As part of her diet, Tina was also encouraged to include more protein and healthy fats in her diet to reduce cravings, especially for sugar, and introduce flaxseeds which work wonders for inflammation and pain associated with female hormones and periods. Behind the scenes we moved into the reintroduction and maintained phase of her FODMAP protocol. Looking at her blood test results We also looked at some blood testing to try to understand at a cellular level if there was more going on, and identified that Tina's iron and Vitamin D levels were low - both can contribute to hair thinning, poor sleep and lowered immunity. Lastly, as part of our holistic approach at The Natural Balance, we continued to prioritise activities and routines that benefitted Tina's mental health. Slow but strength building exercise such as yoga and pilates, testing different forms of breathing or meditation techniques and maintaining journalling habits. What changes did Tina see? Within 4 months her bloating was mostly gone, only triggered with certain foods. Her bowel movements were regular and her period had returned to a regular cycle with much less pain. The bacterial vaginosis was also kept in check with the probiotic use. Tina's skin was still incredibly sensitive to certain foods and hormonal changes throughout the month but was seeing improvements. Knowing which foods triggered her acne and bloating also gave Tina the decisiveness to avoid. She also noticed she was losing much less hair which was a huge win! How can we help you do the same? I see so many women like Tina and Daisy whose gut health or hormonal imbalance truly affects their day to day. If anything of Tina's experience sounds like you, it is so worth seeking help for your symptoms. Want to learn more about Gut Health and IBS? Check out our specialist webpage with more information about IBS, SIBO and Gut disorders At The Natural Balance we work holistically addressing the entire body, not individual parts. We have package options tailored for everyone, so why not book a free 20 minute consultation with us today to see how we can help you. _________________________________________________________________________ Kelly Mulhall Registered Nutritional Therapist Dip CNM, mBANT, mANP, mCNHC Kelly is a Registered Nutritional Therapist who focuses on positive physical and mental wellbeing, achieved through diet, lifestyle, sleep and exercise. Having struggled for years with IBS and hormonal imbalance, and increasingly frustrated with the lack of support and helpful advice from her GP, Kelly began her own journey of healing the body from the inside out. After seeing huge improvements she quit her job to study nutrition and focus on harnessing the healing powers of food to help other people in similar situations. I am not attempting to prevent, treat or cure any physical, mental or emotional issues. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this website. Do not start or stop taking any medications without speaking to your primary health care provider.

"Kelly really listened to me, analysed my situation and tailored the solutions/supplements to me" What were her symptoms? I first saw Daisy in 2020 and her symptoms were causing her a lot of pain and discomfort. They were affecting her daily life, her relationship and she was also worried about her future fertility. Heavy, painful periods accompanied with tender breasts Major gut concerns including stomach pain bloating and piles Very little energy Diagnosed with fibromyalgia As part of our initial discussion Daisy also revealed that her GP had diagnosed her with PCOS. This diagnosis had really concerned her, as she was warned her fertility may suffer and she was already experiencing pain during intercourse. The lack of solutions or support she had not received, had raised Daisy's anxiety levels, which I suspected was increasing the severity of her other symptoms. Where did we start? Daisy completed a food and lifestyle review, so I was able to assess her nutrition content and if any key health or lifestyle indicators were affecting her symptoms. As I often see with other patients, Daisy was not drinking enough water and as a vegan, did not appear to be eating enough simple sources of protein such as legumes, tofu or tempeh. Any symptoms associated with hormones always indicates inadequate detoxification processes, which relies on water as the vessel to detox (essentially, help the body excrete hormones via urine or faeces). Not eating enough protein can contribute to feelings of lethargy as the body is unable to repair cells overnight, and often means people are replacing protein with carbohydrates, which can affect blood sugar balancing and other symptoms of PCOS or painful symptoms. Therefore the most important tasks for Daisy to start with were: Increasing her water intake Ensuring she had some protein in every meal Increase fibre intake to aid detoxification What did we do long term? Long term we focussed on Daisy's diet to help alleviate her symptoms and start to balance her hormones to reduce the severity of PCOS. This centred around having 3 meals per day that included sources of protein to ensure she felt full and nourished, avoiding any energy drops and reducing temptation of sugary foods and simple carbs. In addition to establishing a route of eating 3 meals daily, I created a FODMAP protocol for Daisy to identify if there were any specific foods causing the bloating. Over the next 6 - 12 weeks we worked together to reintroduce foods that were not triggers. Supplements to help PCOS and gut health In conjunction with diet, I curated a specific supplement protocol for Daisy to support her blood sugar and PCOS symptoms, whilst also ensuring she was hitting her micronutrient targets. When someone is suffering with PCOS it can often mean they don't ovulate which means chances of infertility are much greater. Choosing a blend of herbal tinctures to support hormonal imbalance, supplements to balance blood sugar and improve chances of ovulation, as well as rectifying nutrient deficiencies with high doses of vitamins and minerals, was key to improving Daisy's health. A poor vegan diet high in processed foods and saturated fat also meant Daisy's gut was compromised. We focused on an intensive gut healing protocol to improve stomach pain, burning and bloating. "We used food diaries, a multitude of supplements and introduced/removed certain things from my diet and to my shock, I immediately started to feel better!!" Lastly, as part of our holistic approach at The Natural Balance, we worked together on Daisy's mental health. Asking someone to make large changes to what they eat, or remove favourite foods, is challenging, especially when they're in pain and seeking comfort. There were two parts to this - working on Daisy's sleep hygiene and introducing daily exercise. Creating a positive sleep routine, such as winding down 30 minutes before an early bed time seems obvious but so many of us don't do it. For exercise, spending at least 30 minutes each day doing a variety of exercise was essential to her protocol. Walking, cycling and yoga were all introduced into her routine. What changes did Daisy see? Seeing an increase in her energy levels and improved sleep was a huge win for Daisy. It meant she woke up feeling like she could tackle the day, especially during stressful periods of her project based job. It also meant she had energy to incorporate more exercise and mindfulness into her routine. Over time, Daisy was then able to attribute dietary changes to going not just hours or days, but weeks without extreme bloating or painful bowel movements. Where is Daisy now? Daisy's bloating is essentially gone, and her periods have become much more manageable, reducing from lasting 6 to 7 days to 4 or 5 days. But more importantly, Daisy's mood has improved, she's lost half a stone and is now a mother to a lovely little girl! "The biggest thing for me and probably the one I’m most thankful to Kelly for is helping me prepare to conceive!" Here is what Daisy had to say... "Before working with Kelly I had extreme fatigue, a burning sensation in my stomach, horrible periods and wasn’t sleeping very well. I also have Polycystic Ovaries and Fibromyalgia which didn’t help my symptoms. The combinations of these things was making my life very difficult/uncomfortable and was getting me down a lot. I found The Natural Balance through work and booked a free consultation with Kelly. I was nervous that, like most doctors, I was going to be judged for being overweight and following a plant based diet and that they were probably the causes of my symptoms! However, for the first time ever it actually felt like someone understood my symptoms and wanted to help heal me, rather than mask the problems with medications and make me feel even worse. I enjoyed how personalised the consultations were, each time, Kelly really listened to me, analysed my situation and tailored the solutions/supplements to me, unlike doctors who prescribe the same medications to everyone! Kelly made me feel really comfortable too, it was like talking to someone I’d known for years - plus she was always at hand outside of consultations. We worked together to heal my stomach, balance my hormones and ensure my diet was sustainable and that it was providing me with the right nutrients. We used food diaries, a multitude of supplements and introduced/removed certain things from my diet and to my shock, I immediately started to feel better!! So many things improved such as my sleep, my periods and my mood - I also lost just over half a stone. The biggest thing for me and probably the one I’m most thankful to Kelly for is helping me prepare to conceive! Due to my PCOS the doctor told me me I might not be able to have a baby but Kelly gave me hope, helped me heal, cleanse and prepare and now, a year and a half later I have a beautiful, healthy baby girl! My time with Kelly was invaluable, I’m still using the methods, meals, practices and information provided and I just can’t thank her enough!" How can we help you do the same? I see so many women just like Daisy, whose hormonal imbalance is impacting so many parts of their life. If you're suffering from one, some or all of the same symptoms as Daisy it's worthwhile getting help. At The Natural Balance we work holistically addressing the entire body, not individual parts. We have package options tailored for everyone, so why not book a free 20 minute consultation with us today to see how we can help you. _________________________________________________________________________ Kelly Mulhall Registered Nutritional Therapist Dip CNM, mBANT, mANP, mCNHC Kelly is a Registered Nutritional Therapist who focuses on positive physical and mental wellbeing, achieved through diet, lifestyle, sleep and exercise. Having struggled for years with IBS and hormonal imbalance, and increasingly frustrated with the lack of support and helpful advice from her GP, Kelly began her own journey of healing the body from the inside out. After seeing huge improvements she quit her job to study nutrition and focus on harnessing the healing powers of food to help other people in similar situations. I am not attempting to prevent, treat or cure any physical, mental or emotional issues. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this website. Do not start or stop taking any medications without speaking to your primary health care provider.

Maintaining optimum health during your pregnancy is a pretty obvious statement. Along with eating right, staying hydrated and exercising throughout pregnancy there are other factors that we can both control and can't control that can affect the health of our pregnancy and the risk of miscarriage. Thyroid Health A foetus only starts making its own thyroid hormone from 10 to13 weeks into gestation. This means that throughout the first trimester the mother has to produce 30% more thyroid hormone to provide enough for herself and her baby. However, if you have sub-optimal thyroid levels this can have a negative effect on a pregnancy. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels, ideally between 1 - 2.5mU/L, is vital for a healthy pregnancy, but also essential for optimal function of the mother before conceiving. If you do have sub-optimal levels, recommend stop trying until you return to ideal levels. Also important to monitor thyroid levels throughout your pregnancy if you have had any issues. In recurrent miscarriages we would recommend investigating to see if there are elevated thyroid antibodies, which can increase the risk of miscarriage. wise to double check thyroid antibodies as sometimes levels can be elevated, regardless of TSH. This can increase risk for miscarriage Defects in the Luteal phase of menstrual cycle The menstrual cycle has two phases: Follicular: the start of period to ovulation Luteal: after ovulation, ideally lasting for 10+ days Within the Luteal phase, progesterone is the dominant hormone and it is essential for embryo implantation. Progesterone production from the mother supports early pregnancy until the placenta can take over making its own - around the 8 week mark. However, testing for progesterone testing is very difficult due to: Fluctuating levels throughout a woman's cycle Varies from cycle to cycle The test needs to be performed 7 days after ovulation, which is hard to know Progesterone may peak and quickly crash Treatment options if low progesterone is identified can be prescribed by doctors, and can include synthetic progesterone in the form of vaginal creams or oral supplementation. Vaginal infections Not always routinely tested unless symptomatic, so it’s best to get a sexual health check up to rule this out. On the NHS, HIV, Hep B and syphilis are tested for, but there are a wide range of other infections that can cause fertility issues. An imbalanced vaginal microbiome can be caused by elevated levels of inflammation, which can increase the risk of miscarriage. A reduction in lactobacillus can increase inflammation. Thankfully, testing is very easy and treatment often includes antibiotics and holistic care with probiotics to maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome. Toxins The developing foetus is particularly susceptible to environmental pollutants such as carbon monoxide and cooking smoke. Obviously, today's modern world leaves us open to exposure every day. So what can you do?? Maintain a healthy weight Check for nutritional deficiencies, alongside taking a good pregnancy multivitamin Complete a full thyroid panel Reduce toxin exposure and DNA damaging molecules. This includes alcohol, caffeine, drugs, excessive exercise, pollution, plastics, EMF (you can read more about toxins in an earlier blog post here) Avoid BPA plastics. These are linked to PCOS, infertility, endometriosis and thyroid conditions Support detoxification - this is something we can help with at The Natural Balance. Reduce levels of inflammation Increase antioxidant intake, particularly vitamins A, C, E, selenium and zinc A good sleep routine, 8-9 hours each night Stress management techniques that work for you such as yoga, cooking, meditation, jogging Oral hygiene. Often forgotten about, but good oral health reduces inflammation As with any medical concerns, if you’re concerned, worried or your symptoms are not dissipating contact or visit your GP or hospital immediately. Support after a miscarriage is available 1 in 3 women who have suffered a pregnancy loss suffer post traumatic stress disorder. If you, a loved one, a friend or family member has suffered a miscarriage there are some great resources and charities that provide emotional support and help with grief including Petals, The Miscarriage Association and Tommy’s. If you would like to reduce your risk of miscarriage, planning for a baby, or want to find out more about how nutritional therapy can support you conceiving, why not book in a free discovery call with Gail today. There’s no commitment, and all calls are a private and safe space to discuss your concerns. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Gail Madalena Registered Nutritional Therapist Dip CNM, mBANT, mANP, mCNHC Gail Madalena is a registered nutritional therapist specialising in fertility, pregnancy and women’s health. Her expertise lies in hormonal imbalances, such as irregular cycles, debilitating PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, thyroid issues and sub-optimal fertility. Her goal is to reduce hormonal side effects and symptoms by addressing the root cause of the issue. Gail helps couples optimise your nutrition and lifestyle choices, supporting you on your journey to achieving a healthy pregnancy. I am not attempting to prevent, treat or cure any physical, mental or emotional issues. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this website. Do not start or stop taking any medications without speaking to your primary health care provider.

Miscarriages are a devastating and mentally challenging event for women and couples. They’re often not talked about at all, or if they are, usually quite a while after the event. This can leave women feeling isolated, alone, depressed and often as a failure. However this is not true and understanding why miscarriages occur is an important step in acceptance and in finding a solution. Just to note, in this blog we have used the term miscarriage throughout for ease, however when a pregnancy ends before 24 weeks, it is know as a miscarriage, and for post 24 weeks it is considered a stillbirth. So firstly, what causes a miscarriage? For a baby to successfully reach full term there are a number of carefully orchestrated biological steps that must take place. Fertilisation of an embryo between two healthy cells (the female egg and the male sperm) Successful implantation of the developing embryo to the uterine wall Adaptation of maternal physiology to accept the foetus, for example reduce immune response to avoid rejection of the foetus. The mother’s ability to grow a placenta that can meet the foetus’ nutritional and physical demands The ability of the uterus and cervix to hold the pregnancy Appropriate growth of the foetus and timing of birth. This includes DNA and cell replication avoiding any congenital defects At any one of these stages there is a risk, meaning there are many possibilities why a miscarriage can occur. Reasons for miscarriage: Anatomical/Structural: Heart shaped uterus, incompetent cervix, uterine fibroids (10-15% of cases) Genetic defects: This applies to either the egg or sperm or both. Missing chromosomes or damaged DNA account for 60-80% of genetic defect miscarriages Blood clotting factors: Blood too thick or clotting Immune system issues: Body mistakes pregnancy as a foreign object and rejects the pregnancy Hormone imbalance: Low progesterone, hyper/hypothyroidism, diabetes, PCOS, high prolactin Environmental: Such as exposure to chemicals, x-rays or toxins, or drug use Weight: Being extremely under or over weight can also cause the pregnancy to be rejected. A safe BMI range is 20-25 Infections: Rubella, STI’s, etc Unexplained reasons, accidence or violence Mental health: Anxiety, depression and PTS is strongly associated with miscarriage 1 in 4 pregnancies result in a miscarriage 1 in 100 women experience recurrent pregnancy loss The risk of recurrent miscarriages unfortunately increases as women get older: By 35 years of age it’s 9-12% By 40, it’s 50% Repeat pregnancy loss is diagnosed after 3 or more miscarriages are experienced. What can the timing of a miscarriage reveal? Before 4 weeks: Likely a thrombotic event, issue with the uterine lining, lack of progesterone, genetic defect within the embryo from either the egg or sperm, or oxidative stress 4-8 weeks: Majority of causes are genetic defaults as the embryo divides rapidly After 8 weeks: At this stage, it is more likely a cause other than genetic, as the majority of chromosomal abnormalities are lost earlier. What do you do if you think you’re having a miscarriage? This depends on your stage in the pregnancy. If it’s within 4 weeks, you will likely mistake this as your period and can therefore wait for the tissue to past naturally. If you know you’re pregnant, recommend contacting your GP or midwife. Again, depending on how far along the pregnancy is you will likely be advised the following: Wait for the tissue to pass naturally Medical management – a pessary is inserted to encourage the body to pass tissue Surgical management with a suction device – this is called a Dilation & Curettage (D&C) As with any medical concerns, if you’re concerned, worried or your symptoms are not dissipating contact or visit your GP or hospital immediately. Support after a miscarriage is available 1 in 3 women who have suffered a pregnancy loss suffer post traumatic stress disorder. If you, a loved one, a friend or family member has suffered a miscarriage there are some great resources and charities that provide emotional support and help with grief including Petals, The Miscarriage Association and Tommy’s. If you would like to reduce your risk of miscarriage, planning for a baby, or want to find out more about how nutritional therapy can support you conceiving, why not book in a free discovery call with Gail today. There’s no commitment, and all calls are a private and safe space to discuss your concerns. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Gail Madalena Registered Nutritional Therapist Dip CNM, mBANT, mANP, mCNHC Gail Madalena is a registered nutritional therapist specialising in fertility, pregnancy and women’s health. Her expertise lies in hormonal imbalances, such as irregular cycles, debilitating PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, thyroid issues and sub-optimal fertility. Her goal is to reduce hormonal side effects and symptoms by addressing the root cause of the issue. Gail helps couples optimise your nutrition and lifestyle choices, supporting you on your journey to achieving a healthy pregnancy. I am not attempting to prevent, treat or cure any physical, mental or emotional issues. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this website. Do not start or stop taking any medications without speaking to your primary health care provider.

In an earlier blog we looked at common causes for male infertility, and it's more common than you think! Researchers estimate about one in every three cases of infertility is due to problems with the male partner alone! Today's blog post I'll deep dive into the common lifestyle, diet and health risk factors that contribute to these common causes. Obesity Obesity can have extremely detrimental effects on male fertility and severely limit the chances of conception. Male obesity is associated with: Lower sperm counts Lower sperm concentrations Poor sperm morphology Poor sperm motility Lowered testosterone levels are associated with higher BMI and especially central adiposity (fatty tissue) Higher rates of miscarriage in assisted and natural cycles Chronic Stress Chronic stress is often caused by every day life - work, family pressures, financial commitments etc., and it is over an extended period of time, whereby stress hormones are constantly being produced and circulating within the body. This form of stress plays havoc with both genders. In women in can affect menstrual cycles, egg quality and ability to conceive. In men it can equally be disruptive, and when it becomes chronic, the effect can be long-term. Glucocorticoids (stress hormones) released in men can: Weight gain Mobilisation of amino acids Stimulation fat breakdown Decrease in production of gonadotropic releasing hormone by the hypothalamus, which directly affects sperm production Inhibition of other sperm producing hormones released from the pituitary gland. Reduction in sperm production in testis Exposure to Harmful Chemicals Bisphenol A (BPA): BPA is found in common plastics - cling wrap, plastic takeaway containers, drink bottles and even in the lining of some tin cans. BPA has been found to lower sperm concentration and count, and decrease sperm vitality and motility. Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBS): largely banned for use in day to day life, they are still present in hazardous materials and building supplies. They are extremely dangerous as they can be absorbed by humans via inhalation, skin exposure and orally. They are responsible for a wide range of toxicological effects, but in men they are associated with decreased: Sperm count Sperm motility Sperm morphology Sperm DNA integrity (higher fragmentation) Circulating testosterone levels Pesticides: In general, pesticides are like any other chemical and can have a toxicoligcal impact on all humans, and are common endocrine disruptors, whilst also being associated with sperm damage. Pesticides to specifically avoid are: Dibromochloropropane Ethylene dibromide Organophosphorus Alochlor metochlor, Atrazene Other toxins and chemicals to avoid Alcohol: inhibits testosterone synthesis Marijuana: inhibits pituitary function Cigarettes including vaping: huge array of chemicals, tested and untested Pollutants including fumes, and second hand smoke Plastics Exposure to heavy metals: this can be tricky, but common contributors are cheap saucepans. Look for stainless steel options. Some herbs including St Johns Wort, Gingko and long termEchinacea use Some prescription drugs. Please discuss with your doctor before making any changes. Electromagnetic Frequency (EMF) Many small studies demonstrate consistent results that exposure to EMF from mobile phones results in: Decreased sperm motility, especially in men who carry theirs on their hip Increased free radicals within the body, causing inflammation Decreased sperm morphology in men with the highest mobile phone use Okay, So How Can you Improve Your Chances of Conceiving Naturally? Improving Your Diet A Mediterranean based diet is best for optimal sperm health. A mediterranean diet is centred around fresh foods, and avoidance of processed foods. High intake of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, extra virgin olive oil - ideally organic where possible to avoid chemicals Consumption of fish and seafood, specifically oily fish such as mackeral or salmon twice a week. Low intake of dairy and poultry Avoidance of processed food, fried food and snacks. Avoiding trans fats, partially hydrogenated oils, margarines, shelf stable foods. In addition, exposure to Vitamin D - free from the sun. Higher intakes of processed red meat is associated with poorer sperm morphology. Specifically, avoiding sausages, ham, corned beef, beef jerky, bacon and salamis. Specific Nutrients To Consider Fish oil & Men: Fertile men have higher blood and spermatozoa levels of omega-3 fatty acids compared to infertile patients. In men with low sperm count, supplement of omega-3's have seen a positive correlation with increased sperm count, motility, and morphology. Antioxidants: Diet high in antioxidants to combat oxidative stress from free radical damage. Key antioxidants to be mindful of are; Selenium, Zinc, Vitamins A, C, E and pycnogenol. Ashwaganda: A herbal Ayurvedic supplement has seen some positive results in small trails. One study showed in 21 men with low sperm count, that taken a supplement for 90 days saw a 167% increase in sperm count (from 9.6 to 25 million), 53% increase in semen volume (from 1.7 to 2.76 ml), 57% increase in motility (from 18.6 to 29%). Alongside the above, at The Natural Balance, we would look holistically at both diet, and lifestyle and wellbeing strategies. Do you want support in your fertility and pregnancy journey? Book a free consultation with Gail to find out more. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Gail Madalena Registered Nutritional Therapist Dip CNM, mBANT, mANP, mCNHC Gail Madalena is a registered nutritional therapist specialising in fertility, pregnancy and women’s health. Her expertise lies in hormonal imbalances, such as irregular cycles, debilitating PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, thyroid issues and sub-optimal fertility. Her goal is to reduce hormonal side effects and symptoms by addressing the root cause of the issue. Gail helps couples optimise your nutrition and lifestyle choices, supporting you on your journey to achieving a healthy pregnancy. I am not attempting to prevent, treat or cure any physical, mental or emotional issues. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this website. Do not start or stop taking any medications without speaking to your primary health care provider.

Researchers estimate about one in every three cases of infertility is due to problems with the male partner alone. While infertility is not always treatable, there are certainly some changes you can make via diet & supplementation and lifestyle strategies to boost your chances of conceiving naturally. Male infertility is when a man has a poor chance of making his female partner pregnant. It usually is down to the quality of his sperm cells, however, in some cases, infertility is linked to sexual function and physiological structure abnormalities. Read on for the most common causes... What are the common causes of fertility issues in men: Structural issues such as varicocele. Varicocele is enlargement of testicular veins. A urologist or testicular scan will be done to investigate and possibly operate to resolve. Infections. A semen culture is worth having to see if there is an infection that can be simply treated with antibiotics. Hormonal issues. Testosterone is a key male hormone, which influences sperm production. Low testosterone causes changes in sperm production including volume, as well as a lowered libido. Previous drug use. Replacement hormone treatment, steroids and some prescription drugs can have a negative effect on reproductive hormones that can impact sperm quality. Health & lifestyle. Obesity, smoking and vaping, wearing tight clothing/underwear and stress can all impact hormone production and sperm production. How can you check or test for male fertility? To get an accurate picture of what’s going on with semen two seperate semen analyses should be done at least 7 days apart (ideally within about 2-3 months). Yes guys, this requires a trip to the doctor. Testing will look for at a range of parameters including: Low ejaculate volume Low sperm count ie. how many sperm there are in each sample Poor motility ie. movement Poor morphology – shape (normal is considered above 4%) Leukocytospermia. This is an unusual amount of white blood cells in the semen Immunologic factors Let's look deeper into what these mean... Motility An essential function of healthy sperm cells is their ability to swim. Sperm motility is measured as the percentage of moving sperm cells in a sample of semen. Progressive motility – can swim in a straight line Non-progressive motility – swimming but not in any particular direction Total motility – total of above Changes to motility can be caused by: May be due to oxidative damage Sperm antibodies White blood cells in the semen Infections – STI’s, semen culture Low Volume Ideally, your doctor will be looking for 1.5-7.5ml of semen per ejaculation. If a low reading is observed, the following questions will be asked: Was the sample collected properly? Is there low testosterone? Testing further may be offered Duct obstruction Retrograde ejaculation Low protein intake inhibiting sperm production Dehydration Congenital abnormalities Alcohol use Low Sperm Count An important aspect of semen quality is the concentration of sperm cells in a given amount of semen. Most men today would have been considered infertile if they had been tested one or two generations ago! Common causes occur: Oligospermia – low sperm Azoospermia – no sperm present in ejaculate Prolactinoma - tumour of the pituitary gland (blood test) Genetic issues Varicocele Testicular failure DNA Fragmentation Etiology of sperm damage is multifactorial but the majority is associated with reactive oxygen species - essentially stress. This can be caused by inflammation, diet, toxins, stress, unhealthly lifestyle etc. Sperm DNA is housed within the head of the sperm, so whilst understanding DNA changes or mutations can seem complicated, there are actually various methods of testing such as SCSA test, SCD/Halo test, TUNEL assay. The most common and easily accessible option is the Sperm Comet or TDL. Please note, you should not be offered a test shortly after or during illness with high fever. Sperm DNA damage is associated with a significantly increased risk of pregnancy loss after IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), as well as recurrent miscarriage. The benefits of testing however are clear; it can help reinforce the importance of lifestyle modification, predict fertility and monitor patient’s response to intervention. It is also non-invasive, compared to many other tests offered to female partners. Fortunately there are many natural interventions which can be used to improve male fertility so please do get in touch if you are having trouble conceiving. Book a free consultation with Gail to find out more. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Gail Madalena Registered Nutritional Therapist Dip CNM, mBANT, mANP, mCNHC Gail Madalena is a registered nutritional therapist specialising in fertility, pregnancy and women’s health. Her expertise lies in hormonal imbalances, such as irregular cycles, debilitating PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, thyroid issues and sub-optimal fertility. Her goal is to reduce hormonal side effects and symptoms by addressing the root cause of the issue. Gail helps couples optimise your nutrition and lifestyle choices, supporting you on your journey to achieving a healthy pregnancy. I am not attempting to prevent, treat or cure any physical, mental or emotional issues. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this website. Do not start or stop taking any medications without speaking to your primary health care provider.

Have you heard of SIBO? Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth is often missed by doctors and is one of the biggest causes of IBS. Up to 80% of IBS cases may actually be caused by SIBO. SIBO is when bacteria which is normally in the large intestine (where it should be!), migrates into the small intestine (where it should not be!). When this happens, the bacteria start to eat and ferment the food in the small intestine which can cause bloating, gas, cramps, constipation and diarrhoea. Bacteria pass through a damaged ileocecal valve which connects the small and large intestine down at the bottom right of our abdomen. Usually this valve is closed but sometimes constipation, an infection, parasite, stress or food allergies, IBD, low stomach acid, cause it to malfunction and it stays open allowing bacteria to move through it. Common Indications of SIBO Bloating Foul smelling gas (like methane or rotten eggs!) Foul smelling stool Reactions to vegetables such as onions, garlic, broccoli, avocado, stone fruits Reactions to dairy, wheat, sweeteners, alcohol, honey Constipation Thankfully, a quick, easy and pain-free test can tell immediately - a breath test measures the concentration of hydrogen and methane in a person's breath. This gas is given off by the bad bacteria present in the small intestine. Is SIBO serious? Not always, no - it's almost always manageable through nutrition, temporary diet changes and use of therapeutic herbs. Some GPs may have heard of SIBO and treat it with antibiotics. I would always prefer to take a more natural approach using antimicrobial herbs instead as it keeps a much more harmonious balance of good bacteria in the gut (but always follow the advice of your GP). Often SIBO is a common symptoms associated with IBD. This should always be tested for. SIBO is often misdiagnosed and generally under-diagnosed, so it's just really important to get tested. Clinical symptoms might be non-specific (dyspepsia (indigestion), bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort, cramping). However, left untreated, SIBO can lead to serious complications including nutrient deficiencies, dehydration and malnutrition, and cause less serious symptoms such as bad breath. Treatment is dietary changes and/or antibiotics. It's important to work with an experienced nutritionist or physician. Herbal antimicrobials are one route to treat bacterial overgrowth but in some cases antibiotics need to be prescribed along with a SIBO diet. SIBO is linked to IBS as both conditions affect the entirety of the gastrointestinal tract. You may be doing all the right things in treating IBS, but if you're also not addressing issues further up in the small intestine, your IBS will continue to flare up. I can test for SIBO in my clinic as well as put together a bespoke low FODMAP diet to rebalance the bacteria in the small intestine. Here's what our client Kelly had to say about suffering with SIBO "Having spent 10yrs with gut issues I connected with Kelly at Natural Balance. Kelly has some fantastic FREE content online, it was here I learnt about the condition i had been suffering from SIBO, Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth. Kelly works in a very honest and open way, have me clear guidance and expectations on what it would take for me to get on a road of recovery to get my gut healthy again! I was a little apprehensive of working with a Nutritionist but it was the best decision made. I worked with Kelly for nearly 8 months, now I have a much better idea of what foods trigger my gut discomfort and I also know how to remediate this myself naturally. I still contact Kelly if I have any questions and it’s great to know she’s there. While I have such a better understanding of my gut and body in general now. I believe this is just the start of my journey. Just like everything in life – you exercise to stay healthy, you see a therapist to help you mind, I will always see a nutritionist to help with my gut health. I couldn't recommend working Kelly at Natural Balance high enough." _________________________________________________________________________ Kelly Mulhall Registered Nutritional Therapist Dip CNM, mBANT, mANP, mCNHC Kelly is a Registered Nutritional Therapist who focuses on positive physical and mental wellbeing, achieved through diet, lifestyle, sleep and exercise. Having struggled for years with IBS and hormonal imbalance, and increasingly frustrated with the lack of support and helpful advice from her GP, Kelly began her own journey of healing the body from the inside out. After seeing huge improvements she quit her job to study nutrition and focus on harnessing the healing powers of food to help other people in similar situations. I am not attempting to prevent, treat or cure any physical, mental or emotional issues. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of information you have read on this website. Do not start or stop taking any medications without speaking to your primary health care provider.