What RECENT research says about low-carb diets!

What RECENT research says about low-carb diets!

In the News

Headlines can be misleading, but couldn’t pass up this one on Medscape that read, “For Weight Loss With a Low-Carb Diet, Quality Matters.”

This was a study that looked at weight change in 123,332 people following a low-carb diet over 4 years. 

Results showed that those who followed a low-carb diet with more healthy fats and plant protein, but less refined carbohydrates experienced the most weight loss over 4 years. 

But those who followed a low-carb diet with more unhealthy fats, animal protein, and refined carbohydrates experienced the opposite: weight GAIN. 

In this case, the headline was true. QUALITY MATTERS!  

 

Pro Health Tip 

Two of the most common foods that I see people react to in my practice are gluten and dairy, so today let’s take a look at some of my favorite food swaps for these extremely common foods! 

đŸ„š For Gluten: 

  • Sandwich → Lettuce Wrap, lettuce boats, or Gluten-free crackers when you want more crunch.
  • Wheat Tortilla → Corn Tortilla
  • Pasta → Spaghetti Squash or zucchini noodles or rice noodles
  • PLUS most items have gluten free versions: pasta, bread, crackers, pancake mix, etc. Just be sure to read labels to find the healthiest possible versions.

đŸ„› For Dairy: 

  • Milk → Oat, Almond, Coconut, or Rice Milk
  • Creamer → Coconut Milk or cream (You can make a delicious cream based sauce with coconut milk!
  • Butter → Olive Oil or Coconut Oil
  • Parmesan → Nutritional Yeast (literally tastes like parmesan!)
  • PLUS you can find dairy-free cheese, yogurt, & even ice cream when looking for a non-dairy treat. 

Did You Know?

If you’re wondering if foods might be triggering you, it’s helpful to first know what reactions might be possible. 

Did you know there are actually 4 different types of food reactions? 

  • Food allergies trigger an immune reaction that can be life-threatening.
  • Food sensitivities trigger more gradual reactions that can be harder to recognize.
  • Food intolerances occur because of an inability to digest certain foods (like lactose).
  • Celiac disease is an autoimmune reaction to gluten.

Of all the types, food sensitivities are the most confusing, so I’ll be sharing more on how to recognize and deal with them in my next emails! 

I hope you found this information useful. If you’re seeking extra support and guidance on your journey toward peak wellness, stay tuned, as I am committed to sharing the ways in which natural medicine can empower you (and me…) to live a more abundant and well life! 

I’ll be sharing more helpful insights and content in my Members Only Facebook Group:

Natural Solutions for Peak Wellness. I look forward to connecting with you there! 

Make it a mindful day, 

Christina

 

Christina Della Rocca, ND, MASS.d, FNLP, B.A.S.

Strategic Workplace Wellness Specialist & Concierge | Multi-disciplinary Wellness Practitioner

SpĂ©cialiste & Concierge de bien-ĂȘtre stratĂ©gique en entreprise | Praticienne en santĂ© et bien-ĂȘtre

 

 

6 Brain Friendly Snacks

6 Brain Friendly Snacks

I hope your week is off to a great start! We have taken a look at so many great areas when it comes to stress and anxiety. Some insights, some tips, some tools…

If you find yourself struggling with stress and anxiety, I have more tools for you! Remember, it’s OK if some tools work for you while others do not. It’s also alright for things to feel uncomfortable at first. The more you give something a try, the more likely you are to see if it truly works for you or not.

On that note… here are two effective healing mantras to try:

“I breathe in calmness, I breathe out tension.”

Use this mantra while practicing deep breathing exercises to help calm your mind and body.

“Every breath I take brings me closer to peace.”

Focus on the present moment and the calming rhythm of your breath to find peace within yourself.

Today’s topic

Nourish Your Brain with These 6 Brain-Friendly Snacks! 🍓🧠

 

What we eat has a direct impact on our brain (and thus anxiety).

Want to make sure you’re feeding your brain the best fuel?

Here are 6 brain-friendly snacks: 

  • Berries: Such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries, are packed with antioxidants that help protect brain cells from oxidative stress. They also contain flavonoids, which have been linked to improved memory and cognitive function.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Nuts and seeds are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that support brain health. Walnuts, in particular, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain function. Almonds, pumpkin seeds, brazil nuts, and sunflower seeds are also excellent choices.
  • Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate contains flavonoids and antioxidants that have been shown to improve cognitive function and mood. Opt for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or higher) to maximize the potential benefits.
  • Greek Yogurt or Kefir: Greek yogurt and kefir are rich in protein and probiotics, which support brain health and gut health, respectively. Choose plain Greek yogurt or kefir and add your favorite toppings for a delicious and nutritious snack.
  • Seaweed Snacks: Seaweed snacks are low in calories and packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They’re also a good source of iodine, which is essential for thyroid function and brain health. Enjoy seaweed snacks on their own or pair them with sushi rice for a flavorful treat.
  • Bell Pepper Strips with Guacamole: Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, which is important for brain health and immune function. Dip sliced bell peppers in homemade guacamole for a crunchy and nutritious snack packed with healthy fats and antioxidants.

If you’re seeking extra support and guidance on your journey to overcoming stress and anxiety, stay tuned, as I am committed to sharing the ways in which natural medicine can empower you (and me…) to live a more abundant and stress-free life.

Do you have any favorite snacks that leave you feeling well and relazed?

Head on over to my Facebook Group: Natural Solutions for Peak Wellness!

We would all love to hear from you 🙂

Make it a mindful day,

Christina

 

Christina Della Rocca, ND, MASS.d, FNLP, B.A.S.

Strategic Workplace Wellness Specialist & Concierge | Multi-disciplinary Wellness Practitioner

SpĂ©cialiste & Concierge de bien-ĂȘtre stratĂ©gique en entreprise | Praticienne en santĂ© et bien-ĂȘtre

Morning routine to keep anxiety at bay

Morning routine to keep anxiety at bay

“You cannot start the next chapter of your life if you keep re-reading the last one.”

Just like turning the pages of a book, life offers us endless opportunities for growth and transformation. Yet, too often, we find ourselves stuck in the same old chapter, replaying past mistakes or dwelling on missed opportunities.

But here’s the truth: 👇

You cannot rewrite the past, but you have the power to shape your future. Your health journey is no exception. You cannot achieve your wellness goals if you’re constantly tethered to:

– Old habits

– Unhealthy patterns

– Or negative self-talk

Instead, I dare you to turn the page. Release the weight of yesterday’s choices and setbacks, for they do not define you. Each moment is a fresh opportunity to nourish your body, mind, and spirit.

So, let go of the past with gratitude for the lessons it taught you, and step boldly into the unknown. Embrace the adventure of discovering:

– New foods

– New activities, and

– New ways of caring for yourself

Remember, the journey to health is not about perfection; it’s about progress.

Celebrate every small victory along the way and keep moving forward, one step at a time.

Trust in your ability to create the life and the health you deserve. 💗

Morning routine to help keep anxiety at bay

Are you are struggling with stress and/or anxiety?

If so, try this calming morning routine to help keep stress and anxiety at bay đŸ€

  1. Hydrate: Start your day by drinking a glass of water with lemon and a pinch of salt (optional) to rehydrate your body after a night’s rest. Prepare this the night before and keep it in the fridge for the morning.
  2. Mindful Breathing: Begin your day with a few minutes of mindful breathing. Sit or lie comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your abdomen to rise, then exhale slowly through your mouth, releasing any tension.
  3. Stretching or Yoga: Incorporate gentle stretching or yoga poses into your morning routine to loosen up your muscles and promote relaxation. Focus on slow, deliberate movements and deep breathing.
    Gratitude Practice: Reflect on what you’re grateful for. Consider keeping a gratitude journal and writing down three things you’re thankful for each morning.
  4. Healthy Breakfast: Fuel your body with a nutrient-dense breakfast to kickstart your day. Choose foods rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats to provide sustained energy and stabilize blood sugar levels.
  5. Sunlight On Your Face: Spend a few minutes outdoors or by a window, allowing natural sunlight to touch your face. Sunlight exposure can help regulate your circadian rhythm and boost your mood by increasing serotonin levels.
  6. Set Intentions: Set positive intentions for the day ahead. Visualize how you want your day to unfold and focus on what you can control. Choose affirmations or mantras that resonate with you and repeat them silently or aloud.
  7. Plan Your Day: Take a few minutes to plan your day and prioritize tasks. Break down your to-do list into manageable steps and allocate time for self-care and relaxation. Having a clear plan can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and anxiety.If you’re seeking extra support and guidance on your journey to overcoming stress, stay tuned, as I am committed to sharing the ways in which natural solutions can empower you (and me…) to live a more stress-free life.

Do you have any morning routine rituals to share that help you keep stress and anxiety at bay? Head on over to my Facebook Group: Natural Solutions for Peak Wellness!

We would all love to hear any tips you have to share!

Make it a mindful day,

Christina

Prioritize Your Mind

Prioritize Your Mind

A few words from me, Christina, before we move into today’s focus!

FYI May is Mental Health Awareness Month 💗

It’s been a little while since I last popped into your inbox.

Some of you may have noticed, while some others may only be realizing at this very moment. Either way, I want to start out by saying I appreciate your understanding during my absence over the last bit.

At times, life can take us on a little journey away from health and well-being and that has been the case for me. I needed to take some time to focus on my own health and well-being and one of the ways I needed to do so was by accepting that I just couldn’t do it all!

Being a Type A, overachiever, and yes ok, a bit of a perfectionist (which I have already made great headway on over the last 3 decades), I fell into my personal “weak wellness zone”, which is : doing too much, wearing myself out too thin, and living with an unhealthy level of personal stress.

Even though lots of it was centered around good things, too much is too much! Something my mom would sit me down with through my teen years, twenties, and apparently must still to this day!

As an advocate of leading a healthy and WELL life, I have the “Nutrition & Hydration”, “Exercise & Movement” and “Sleep” (mostly) areas of the Functional Nutrition & Lifestyle Model I work with in my practice, quite well fine-tuned.

Nonetheless, I am always reminded how equally important it is to give the “Stress & Resilience” and “Rest & Relaxation” elements the important attention and care they too deserve!

Taking a step back, getting a grip on my schedule, accepting that I can only take on so much, and taking some time for R&R and self-care once again came to be the order of the day.

And so, in practicing what I preach, I set some priorities and boundaries, making some tough but necessary choices, to step away from the things I could, to create space to practice some well-needed self-care. This has been an ongoing life-long lesson for me
 and it’s a tough one for someone who is high energy and loves to be on the move!

Recently someone wise told my daughter: “The hardest thing to change is our nature
 ” and it really resonated with me
 how true it is!

I am now slowly coming back to some of the activities I stepped away from. One of those being my weekly “News from Christina Della Rocca, n.d.” and the other my Private “Natural Solutions for Peak Wellness Facebook group”, where I share ideas, content, tips, tools, programs, create community, and more


Soon, I will also be re-opening my schedule for a limited number of client appointments. Stay tuned for more on this for those who have been waiting.

In the meantime
 I thank you for being part of my community and, as always, look forward to serving you in the best and most authentic ways I can.

Christina 

Now onto today’s focus…

Honoring The Month of May

“Mental Health Awareness Month’

 Now more than ever, it’s crucial to prioritize our mental well-being. In a world that often glorifies busyness and productivity, one I personally know all too well, let’s remember that taking care of our mental health is not selfish… it’s essential! 

☑ Your mental health is a priority

☑ Your happiness is essential

☑ Your self-care is a necessity

This month, let’s break the stigma surrounding mental health and cultivate a culture of compassion, understanding, and support. Let’s check in on ourselves and our loved ones, prioritize self-care, and seek help when needed.

Together, let’s raise awareness, spark conversations, and foster a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Because your mental health matters. Your happiness matters. YOU matter. Forward this email to someone who needs to hear this! 

MICRO-HABITS

 Did you know that micro-habits can play a crucial role in resetting the nervous system?

 The brain has the remarkable ability to adapt and reorganize itself in response to experiences and environmental changes, a phenomenon known as neuroplasticity. 

By engaging in micro-habits regularly, we can leverage neuroplasticity to rewire neural pathways associated with stress and promote relaxation and resilience!

 This isn’t the only reason why micro-habits work though:

  •  Consistency: Consistency is key to creating lasting change in the brain and body. By incorporating micro-habits into our daily, weekly, or monthly routines, we reinforce positive behaviors and gradually shift our baseline level of stress and reactivity.
  • Stress Reduction: Micro-habits that focus on relaxation, mindfulness, and self-care can help reduce levels of stress hormones. By practicing these habits consistently, we signal to the body that it is safe to relax, which helps reset the nervous system and promote a state of calm and balance.
  • Habit Formation: Daily, weekly, or monthly micro-habits contribute to the formation of new neural pathways associated with healthy behaviors. Over time, these habits become automatic and ingrained, making it easier to maintain a balanced nervous system.
  • SelfRegulation: The regular practice of micro-habits enhances our ability to self-regulate and cope with stressors more effectively. By incorporating techniques such as deep breathing or meditation into our daily routine, we develop greater resilience to navigate life’s challenges.
  • Prevention of Chronic Stress: Chronic stress can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. By proactively engaging in micro habits that promote relaxation and stress reduction, we can prevent the accumulation of chronic stress.

If you’re seeking extra support and guidance on your journey to overcoming stress, stay tuned, as I am committed to sharing the ways in which natural solutions can empower you (and me…) to live a more stress-free life.

Be sure to head on over to my Instagram page @peaksantewithchristina and/ or Private Facebook Group where I will be sharing all kinds of things relating to stress and anxiety this month!

Do you have any micro-habits to share around managing stress and creating balance?

Head on over to my Facebook Group: Natural Solutions for Peak Wellness!

We would all love to hear from you 🙂

Make it a mindful day,

Christina

 

Christina Della Rocca, ND, MASS.d, FNLP, B.A.S.

Strategic Workplace Wellness Specialist & Concierge | Multi-disciplinary Wellness Practitioner

SpĂ©cialiste & Concierge de bien-ĂȘtre stratĂ©gique en entreprise | Praticienne en santĂ© et bien-ĂȘtre

5 top reasons you’re no longer getting the results you want

5 top reasons you’re no longer getting the results you want

Are you ready to ramp up your results? I hope so because this month I’m focusing on the TOP ACTIONS you can take to 10x your results 

 even (especially!) if you’re stuck in a plateau.

Basically, a plateau is when your results stall out and you stop seeing the progress you saw when you first started your program.

Nearly EVERYONE goes through a plateau from time to time. It’s not a fun place to be – but the good news is that if you DO experience one (or are in one right now), there are a few key things to pay attention to…

I have an entire GUIDE on this topic for you coming soon.

 

In the meantime…

1. You Are “Kinda-Sorta” Following Your Program.

Have you started to slack on your plan? Be honest! This is one of the top causes of plateaus and it’s a good sign to shake things up with new recipes, workouts, or injecting some more FUN into the mix!

2. Your Body is Used to Your WORKOUT or FOOD Plan.

This is another top cause of plateaus! The good news is this means you’re fitter and healthier. It also means it’s time to (safely) challenge your body in a different way.

Regular updates to your plan is KEY to your success! A great coach can help you quickly identify small tweaks to fire up your results again.

3. Hormones, Stress, Sleep Deprivation, and More. Your body isn’t a machine! It’s an incredibly complex organism that functions best when it’s in balance.

So many things can throw it out of balance, from being overtired to overstressed and even undernourished and overworked.

4. You’re Not REALLY in a Plateau (Part 1). If you only rely on the scale to track your results, you’re missing out!

Your body could actually be changing in a big way EVEN if the scale doesn’t move. That’s why it’s important to measure other things, such as the percentage of body fat or circumference measurements.

5. You’re Not REALLY in a Plateau (Part 2). If you’re struggling to lose those “last 5 pounds,” you might be at a weight that’s healthy and natural for your body.

Losing those pounds can take a lot of extra effort, as can keeping them off once you hit your goal.

I hope this list helps you rev up your results.

The fastest and surest way to get – and keep – your momentum going is to work with an experienced coach with a tried & tested program. They’ll be able to make adjustments as you need to make sure you stay on track with your goals to get the results you’re looking for!

How to get your “hope” molecules flowing

How to get your “hope” molecules flowing

You’ve heard about the mind-body-spirit connection, right? It turns out there is some real practical SCIENCE involved. It’s science that will have you lacing up your workout sneakers AND give you inspiration to pick up some weights! 🙂 

Have you heard about “hope molecules”? These are real, live molecules that are in your body – and they get released when you exercise, specifically when your muscles contract.

They are called myokines, and they’re a BIG topic of research. They can affect your mood, your immune system, and basically every organ in your body (even your brain).

Myokines are special chemicals that your muscles create and secrete when you contract them. 

They travel through your bloodstream to your brain, and they act as an antidepressant, make you feel less stressed, and can help you learn.

PLUS 
 myokines can help:

  • Reduce inflammation
  • Control blood sugar
  • Battle cancer cells
  • Improve brain function
  • Burn more fat as fuel 

The only way to get these chemicals into your brain is to use your muscles!

Researchers started calling myokines “hope molecules” because they appear to work at the brain level to help it recover from stress.

So 
. exactly HOW do you exercise to spur more myokine action in your body? 

It really doesn’t matter – basically, just make sure your muscles contract. That could mean walking, biking, running, lifting weights, participating in a fitness class or any other continuous action that makes your muscles move.

Just another reason to feel good about including fitness as part of your self-care routine!

REFERENCES:

https://realfoodwholelife.com/feelgoodeffect/joy-of-movement-kelly-mcgonigal/

https://www.cnet.com/health/ways-exercise-makes-you-happier/

https://www.richroll.com/podcast/kelly-mcgonigal-491/