In this illuminating episode of The Flow State podcast, co-host Norah Candito, RD, shares her personal journey from hormonal imbalance to healing, offering valuable insights into the interconnected world of gut health, hormones, and holistic wellness.

A Journey Through Hormonal Health

Norah's story begins as a competitive gymnast, getting her first period at age 14 after stepping away from the sport. While her initial cycle was manageable, she soon experienced severe symptoms that led to missing 18 days of high school due to heavy bleeding. Like many young women, she was prescribed birth control as a quick fix, beginning a decade-long journey with hormonal contraception.

The Cascade Effect: From Birth Control to Complex Health Challenges

After ten years on birth control, Norah's health challenges emerged:

• Development of cystic acne
• Digestive issues following antibiotic use
• Severe vitamin B12 deficiency
• SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) diagnosis
• Unexpected weight changes
• Hormonal imbalances

Understanding the Root Causes

Norah's experience highlights several crucial connections between gut health and hormonal balance:

• The impact of birth control on nutrient absorption
• How gut inflammation affects thyroid function
• The role of bacterial overgrowth in nutrient deficiencies
• The importance of comprehensive gut health testing

The Path to Recovery

Norah's healing journey involved several key elements:

1. Stopping high-intensity exercise for six months
2. Focusing on gentle movement like walking
3. Addressing gut health comprehensively
4. Removing endocrine disruptors from personal care products
5. Supporting the nervous system
6. Implementing proper nutrient supplementation

Professional Insights: The Difference in Credentials

As a Registered Dietitian, Norah explains the important distinctions between various nutrition professionals:

• Registered Dietitians (RDs) complete extensive education and clinical training
• Only RDs can legally prescribe meal plans and provide Medical Nutrition Therapy
• The term "nutritionist" is unregulated and can be used by anyone
• Functional nutrition requires additional specialized training

Key Takeaways for Hormone Health

• The importance of addressing root causes rather than masking symptoms
• How gut health directly impacts hormonal balance
• The value of giving your body time to heal
• The role of stress reduction in hormone recovery
• The significance of proper supplementation and nutrition

Looking Forward: Norah's Current Practice

Today, Norah runs a successful practice focusing on hormone and gut health, offering:

• Group programs for comprehensive healing
• Integration of multiple healing modalities
• Education on body literacy and hormone health
• Support for women navigating complex health challenges

This episode provides valuable insights for anyone struggling with hormonal imbalances, gut health issues, or looking to understand the deeper connections between various aspects of their health. Norah's journey from patient to practitioner offers hope and practical guidance for others on their healing journey.

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