Key Topics Discussed:

• Integrative medicine places the individual at the centre of care, combining research evidence, practitioner expertise, and patient preferences.

• Stress plays a major role in health and disease, often affecting hormonal balance, metabolic health, and recovery from illness.

• Adrenal health is closely linked to overall hormonal function and can be influenced by chronic stress and nutrient availability.

• Functional testing, such as cortisol testing, can sometimes help individuals better understand their health patterns and support behaviour change.

• Personalised nutrition is more effective than following rigid or trend-based diet plans.

• Simple lifestyle practices, including mindfulness and mindful eating, can significantly support nervous system regulation and digestion.

• Stable blood sugar and adequate protein intake are key nutritional foundations for supporting energy and stress resilience.

• Supplements can be helpful when used appropriately but should be individualised and not overused.

• Traditional approaches, such as the Chinese Five Elements framework, can offer valuable perspectives on balance and nourishment.

• Emerging technologies and AI may enhance understanding of complex health data but must remain grounded in patient-centred care.

About our guest:

Kirsten Chick MSc. is a nutritional therapist, nutrition educator, author and speaker with over 20 years’ experience. She offers a nourishing, effective and empowering approach to nutrition.

In one-to-one consultations, as an educator and in her book, Nutrition Brought to Life, Kirsten applies her many years of research and experience with sensitivity and compassion. She supports people with a wide range of health goals, from optimising digestion to improving hormone balance.

At least half of Kirsten’s work is with people with or recovering from a cancer diagnosis. With a long-held interest and expertise in Integrative Oncology, she is the Nutrition Lead for cancer charity Yes to Life, and a BSIO (British Society for Integrative Oncology) Council Member. Her MSc. in Nutrition Science & Practice led to a research paper on Mushrooms, Gut Microbiota and Cancer, which has been published in the peer-reviewed European Journal of Integrative Medicine.

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Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health or treatment plan.