Have you ever considered the profound ways in which trauma shapes our health, behavior, and the very foods we long for in times of stress? Dr. Aimie Apigian joins us to explore this intricate tapestry, unraveling how our bodies' responses to trauma are far more than psychological - they're deeply rooted in our biology. Journeying through our autonomic nervous system, we examine why certain comfort foods seem irresistible and the unexpected role of the vagus nerve in our quest for emotional balance.Many of us have felt the paradoxical pull towards the very foods that don't agree with us, especially during periods of emotional upheaval. This episode peels back the layers of this mysterious craving, revealing how our bodies may be seeking immediate survival through an energy boost. Dr. Aimie and I discuss the hidden power of gluten and dairy to bind to our nervous system's opiate receptors, offering a temporary numbing effect that can mimic comfort. It's a revelation that underscores the importance of understanding our body's survival responses and the transformative potential of cultivating inner safety.But it's not all about the science. In the latter part of our conversation, we engage in practical strategies and exercises that can help us navigate through and beyond these overwhelming experiences. From the 'push away' technique to the calming presence of a pillow, we provide listeners with tangible tools to foster self-regulation, evoke the body's relaxation response, and embark on a deeper journey of healing. With Dr. Aimie's expertise and heartfelt guidance, this episode is a beacon of hope for anyone seeking to transform their relationship with trauma and find a path to lasting well-being.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Sugar has become a staple in modern diets, but the impact it has on our health is far from sweet. Dr. Rob Lufkin, a respected physician and author, brings to light the dark side of sugar consumption and its pervasive role in promoting chronic diseases. From the onset of metabolic syndrome to its influence on Alzheimer's, cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer, sugar's impact is extensive and often underestimated.Dr. Lufkin's personal journey of health enlightenment underscores the urgent need for medical curriculum reform. He points out the flawed nutrition wisdom ingrained in medical education, where the oversimplified mantra of "a calorie is just a calorie" fails to account for the complexity of metabolic health. His recovery from metabolic syndrome not only transformed his own life but also fueled his passion to educate others, particularly future medical professionals, about the intricacies of diet and disease.The podcast episode delves into the science of glycation and the activation of the mTOR protein, both of which are closely linked to aging and are exacerbated by sugar intake. Dr. Lufkin's insights into how our bodies can switch from glucose to ketones as an energy source reveal a potential pathway to better health and longevity. By reducing sugar consumption and embracing intermittent fasting, we can encourage our bodies to use ketones, thus mitigating the detrimental effects of sugar.Moreover, Dr. Lufkin discusses the pervasive prevalence of metabolic syndrome, a condition that's alarmingly common among American adults. He challenges the conventional view of type 2 diabetes as an all-or-none condition, advocating for a perspective that sees it as a gradual progression correlated with aging. This rethinking prompts a proactive approach to dietary choices, regardless of whether one has been diagnosed with diabetes.As the conversation turns towards sugar substitutes and pharmaceuticals like rapamycin, the episode offers a balanced look at lifestyle modifications and medical interventions. Dr. Lufkin emphasizes that while medications can play a role, it is the dietary choices that hold the key to combating the onslaught of chronic diseases and aging. The use of sugar substitutes, for instance, while seemingly beneficial, can still trigger insulin production and may have unintended consequences on the microbiome and taste preferences.In conclusion, the episode leaves listeners with a powerful message of empowerment. By understanding the profound impact of sugar on our health and making informed dietary decisions, we can take control of our well-being and combat the chronic diseases that threaten our quality of life. Dr. Lufkin's transformation and advocacy for change serve as a beacon of hope for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of health and nutrition in pursuit of a longer, healthier life.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Tackling sugar addiction is more than a battle of willpower; it's a journey of understanding the neuroscience behind our cravings and learning how to heal our brain for lasting change. Dr. Susan Pierce-Thompson's podcast episode is a deep dive into this process. She shares her personal story of overcoming drug addiction and obesity, highlighting her transition from a life ensnared by addictive behaviors to one where she could exercise control over her eating habits through the Bright Line Eating program.The episode addresses the human brain's intricate landscape, which is highly responsive to rewards and susceptible to addiction. Our brains are wired to remember and seek out the cues that predict these rewards, a mechanism that can lead to an increased susceptibility to addiction in environments where food cues are omnipresent. This conversation between the host and Dr. Thompson offers an in-depth exploration of how we can transition from a dopamine-driven existence to one where serenity is achieved through balanced brain chemistry, a state influenced by a mix of neurotransmitters including serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins.Embarking on a journey toward better health often means rewriting one's identity, and the Bright Line Eating program is designed to facilitate this transformation. The conversation emphasizes the difference between a temporary diet and a lifestyle change, where new eating habits become an integral part of one's identity. The four Bright Lines—no sugar, no flour, eating only at meals, and measuring quantities—provide clarity and a structured path for those seeking sustainable weight loss, challenging the promises of quick fixes offered by diet medications.Dr. Thompson also shares her insights on the concept of 'crystal vase recovery,' likening the fragility and strength of recovery to a rare and valuable object that must be cared for diligently. This analogy reinforces the ongoing vigilance required to maintain recovery from addiction. The episode further delves into the healing potential of internal family systems and parts work in psychology, illustrating how engaging with different aspects of our psyche can lead to healthier coping strategies and a more harmonious internal family system.As the episode concludes, there's an expression of gratitude for individuals like Dr. Thompson who have dedicated their lives to improving health and nutrition, inspiring listeners to strive for a balanced existence. The heartfelt appreciation for the work done in distinguishing between effective and ineffective dietary practices is palpable, as is the collective effort to address food-related issues and guide others toward happiness and balance.This episode not only shares the remarkable journey of Dr. Thompson but also serves as an educational resource on the science of addiction and recovery. It's a beacon of hope for those seeking freedom from the clutches of sugar addiction and offers practical, scientifically-backed advice for achieving a healthy relationship with food.For anyone struggling with food addiction or simply seeking to improve their relationship with eating, this podcast episode with Dr. Susan Pierce-Thompson is a must-listen. It's an inspiring reminder that recovery is not only possible but can be sustained with the right knowledge and tools.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Discover the transformative power of lifestyle medicine with Dr. David Cavan, who joins us to share his remarkable shift from a traditional to a pioneering approach in diabetes management. Prepare to be enlightened by Dr. Cavan's insights on the potency of nutrition and patient empowerment in turning the tide against type 2 diabetes. Drawing inspiration from Professor Roy Taylor's innovative research, our conversation illuminates how simple dietary modifications, primarily the reduction of carbohydrates, have set patients on a path to reclaiming their health. This episode promises to change your perspective on managing diabetes and introduce you to practical strategies that could lead to its reversal.This week's discussion cuts through the confusion surrounding diabetes, clearly distinguishing between the autoimmune nature of type 1 and the lifestyle-induced type 2. We tackle the stigmas and misconceptions associated with these conditions, emphasizing the importance of a sympathetic understanding of every individual's battle with diabetes. Dr. Cavan and I shed light on the dark corners of food culture, sugar consumption, and their contributions to the diabetes epidemic, offering a compassionate roadmap for making informed changes to one's diet. Through engaging stories and a focus on personalized care, we underscore the significance of dietary choices and glucose monitoring in potentially reversing type 2 diabetes.We wrap up the conversation with an inspiring story of Eric, a patient who found diabetes remission through a holistic approach, and discuss the synergistic roles of diet, physical activity, and intermittent fasting. These practices, which once were ancestral norms, are now powerful tools in our modern fight against diabetes. Dr. Cavan also gives us a glimpse into his forthcoming book, promising to be an invaluable resource for anyone looking to take an active role in their health journey. Tune in for an episode that not only challenges conventional wisdom but also champions the idea that it's never too late to make life-altering improvements to your well-being.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

When Dr. Philip Ovadia tipped the scales into morbid obesity, he knew something had to give. That realization sparked a revolution in his medical practice and personal health philosophy, leading to profound insights that he shares with us in our latest episode. Join us as we sit down with the heart surgeon and author who is on a mission to keep people off his operating table. Dr. Ovadia recounts the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including his brother's diabetes diagnosis and his own health scare, which led him to challenge the conventional wisdom on diet and disease.The landscape of healthcare is shifting beneath our feet, and Dr. Ovadia is one of the trailblazers navigating new territory. We engage in a candid discussion about the emergence of doctors who are breaking away from traditional medical models in favor of holistic, evidence-based approaches to health. The conversation reveals the obstacles these pioneers face, from professional risks to the exhilaration of embracing telemedicine and the growth of supportive societies. This episode is an eye-opener on the importance of aligning with a healthcare provider who shares your values, and the empowerment that comes from taking charge of your health journey.Sugar, that sweet but dangerous culprit in the narrative of heart disease, takes center stage as Dr. Ovadia helps us unravel its controversial history. We dissect the mechanisms through which sugar and insulin resistance wreak havoc on cardiovascular health, and discuss the dietary complexities that influence our well-being. From plant-based regimens to low-carb and carnivore diets, we examine the misconceptions and truths about what really serves our hearts. Dr. Ovadia's transformative story and expert insights will arm you with the knowledge to take proactive steps toward better health, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to make meaningful lifestyle changes.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Have you ever considered that your sweet tooth might be an ancient survival mechanism playing tricks on you? Join us as Eric Edmeades, an expert in nutrition and lifestyle change, shares his transformative journey to a sugar-free life, and offers insights that could lead you to your own health revolution. Through a captivating discussion, Eric reveals the evolutionary roots of our sugar cravings and how the modern food industry has hijacked these primal urges to our detriment. You'll be equipped with science-backed strategies to conquer those sugar cravings that our ancestors could never resist. We also tackle the often-overlooked role of fasting in recovery, the success stories emerging from Eric's WildFit program, and how these insights are revolutionizing the way we think about food addictions and eating disorders. And as we wrap up, we'll face the harsh truths about lifestyle diseases and the food industry's role in public health—leaving you with a renewed sense of responsibility and empowerment to take control of your health journey. Join us for a deep and impactful exploration of what it means to eat, heal, and live well in today's world.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Prepare to unravel the mysteries of sugar's impact on our health with none other than Dr. Richard Johnson, a leading expert who's spent a quarter-century at the frontier of metabolic research. In our riveting conversation, Dr. Johnson exposes how sugar, particularly fructose, is not just a sweet treat but a key player in the development of metabolic syndrome. His unexpected findings reveal how certain dietary sugars can actually lead to the internal production of fructose, even without direct consumption, potentially derailing our well-being.Our discussion takes a surprising turn as we examine the ordinary elements of our diet that contribute to obesity. Learn about the startling connection between high glycemic carbs, salt, and their combined effect on weight gain and overeating. Dr. Johnson's insights on the importance of hydration will make you reevaluate every salty snack and underscore the substantial role proper water intake plays in metabolic health. His practical tips provide a roadmap to managing uric acid levels and sidestepping the health risks associated with today's sweet-centric diet.Closing the episode, we reflect on the broader implications of our findings with Dr. Johnson's poetic musings on the allure and perils of sugar from his book. This poignant ending encapsulates our deep dive into the transformative power of lifestyle alterations and the hopeful prospect of emerging treatments in the battle against metabolic diseases and beyond. Whether you're looking to revamp your diet or simply gain a deeper understanding of the food you consume, this episode is an eye-opening journey through the science of sugar's intricate dance with our health.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Have you ever found solace in the sweetness of sugar, only to discover it's a double-edged sword that cuts deep into the fabric of emotional well-being? Karly Pitman joins us today — whose journey through eating disorders and deep dive into neuroscience and attachment theory sheds light on our complex relationship with food. Throughout our revealing conversation, Carly helps us understand how self-compassion and empathy are key in transforming the way we interact with food, especially sugar, and how these insights can empower us in the recovery process.This episode is an invitation to reflect on the cyclical nature of healing. We emphasize that your journey need not be a solitary one, and that opening doors to healthier coping mechanisms while closing those that harm us is part of the healing process. Karly and I explore the essence of our true selves—compassionate, loving, and kind—distinct from the critical inner voices that often plague us. By embracing this journey to self-compassion, we learn to internalize our experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of ourselves and, ultimately, a more peaceful state of being.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Unlock the hidden truths about sugar's role in cancer as we sit down with chemist Dr. Lewis Cantley, whose work on the PI3K enzyme has revolutionized our understanding of this sweet substance's dark side. Picture a world where sugar isn't just a harmless treat but a trigger for one of today's leading health adversaries. This episode takes you on a journey through Dr. Cantley's personal dietary choices, stemming from his own health experiences, to his groundbreaking research that connects the dots between sugar intake, insulin spikes, and cancer cell proliferation. It's a narrative that not only sheds light on the molecular mechanisms of the Warburg effect but also opens the door to potential dietary interventions in chronic disease management.As we navigate the complexities of insulin resistance and its implications for both diabetes and cancer, we discover the pivotal discoveries in Dr. Cantley's lab. Here, the connection between high insulin levels and cancer risk emerges with startling clarity, as does the life-changing impact of insulin's discovery on diabetes treatment. This episode doesn't just leave you with alarming insights; it arms you with the knowledge needed to challenge dietary norms and embrace a path to longevity through informed nutrition. Join us as we dissect the profound impact of lifestyle choices on cancer risks, and learn how a simple decision at the dinner table could drastically alter your health's trajectory.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Have you ever reached for a sugary treat to find comfort during stressful times? Luis Mojica, a somatic experiencing practitioner and holistic nutritional counselor, joins us to unravel his own spiral into sugar addiction against a backdrop of childhood trauma and chronic health challenges. Grappling with PTSD and Tourette's syndrome, Luis candidly shares how he sought solace in the sweetness of sugar, only to discover that his refuge was, in fact, reinforcing his struggles. His transformative journey sheds light on the complex interplay between our emotional state, food choices, and the path to recovery.Luis guides us through the labyrinth of how our bodies react to trauma, seeking balance in ways that can lead to harmful addictions, like that of sugar. This episode peels back the curtain on the body's survival responses and how they can be triggered not just by external threats, but by internal turmoil and suppressed emotions. We talk about food as a communicator, capable of sending powerful signals that influence our stress responses and emotional well-being. Luis's insights into the biological and psychological impact of trauma are a testament to the importance of understanding the nuanced relationship between what we eat and how we feel.Beyond the physiology of addiction, we touch on the potent role of somatic practices in fostering body awareness and emotional processing. Luis introduces us to techniques like pendulation, which can help us navigate through discomfort and find equilibrium. If you're looking for a beacon of hope in the often overwhelming journey to overcome sugar addiction and heal from trauma, this conversation with Luis Mojica offers a compelling blend of personal narrative, scientific exploration, and practical advice that could change the way you perceive and engage with your body and your cravings.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

This week on our podcast, we sit down with the renowned Dr. Robert Lustig, a leading expert in pediatric endocrinology, who shares his enlightening insights on the detrimental effects of sugar on our health. Dr. Lustig takes us beyond the surface-level discourse on diet and calories, diving deep into the biochemical and environmental intricacies that fuel metabolic diseases.Key Highlights from the Episode:The Toxic Truth About Sugar: Discover how sugar goes beyond being a simple calorie source to acting as a toxic substance that can lead to obesity, diabetes, and a spectrum of metabolic dysfunctions.Rethinking Obesity: Dr. Lustig challenges the outdated 'calories in, calories out' narrative, advocating for a nuanced understanding of obesity through the lens of biochemical processes like the carbohydrate-insulin hypothesis.Environmental Factors and Metabolic Health: Learn about the critical role of environmental pollutants in metabolic diseases and the urgent need for a holistic approach to detoxify our surroundings for better metabolic health.The Nature of Addiction: Uncover the neurological impacts of sugar and how addictive behaviors, especially sugar addiction, can perpetuate a cycle of poor health choices.A Call to Action: Be inspired by Dr. Lustig's call to take charge of your health by recognizing the fallacies of the food industry and making informed choices towards a diet of real, whole foods.This episode is a call to revolutionize our health paradigms and make informed choices that benefit not only ourselves but society as a whole. Dr. Lustig's groundbreaking insights offer a roadmap for anyone looking to escape the sweet deception that has long ensnared our society.Tune in to this eye-opening episode and embark on a journey towards a healthier, sugar-conscious lifestyle. Together, we can challenge long-held beliefs and embrace the truth for a brighter, healthier future.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Could giving up sugar and flour change your life? Chef AJ joins me to share her transformative journey to health through a whole food, plant-based diet, and inspires us to consider the profound effects that cutting out these addictive substances could have on our well-being. Chef AJ's four-decade commitment to this lifestyle and her insights on food addiction offer an enlightening perspective on how we approach our eating habits. From her experience, we learn the healing power of whole foods, and she challenges us to experiment with eliminating sugar, flour, and alcohol to witness their impact firsthand.The road to recovery from addiction is a challenging one, but it's a path I've walked myself, and I open up about my own health scare that led to a complete dietary overhaul. We discuss how environments like the Optimum Health Institute can pave the way to a cleaner, more vibrant life, free from the shackles of food addiction. This episode is filled with compelling stories of individuals who've reclaimed their health by embracing nutrient-dense foods, particularly the superheroes of the vegetable world: dark, leafy greens. We delve into practical tips and celebrate the empowering sense of community that surrounds those who choose sobriety from addictive foods.Addressing the societal pressures and the marketing trap of sugar, we take a hard look at how processed foods and sugary treats are pushed upon us, especially children, creating a cycle of dependency from a young age. We discuss how changing our food environment can make a significant difference in overcoming addictions and highlight the need for education and support systems. From the backstory of how I kicked my own health into high gear to Chef AJ's infectious enthusiasm for fitness and whole foods, we offer a candid, motivational dialogue that invites you to start your own journey towards a healthier, addiction-free lifestyle.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

When the wisdom of the body meets the complexity of trauma and addiction, profound healing can begin. This is the message that Jan Winhall, an experienced trauma and addiction psychotherapist, brings to our latest conversation. With her Felt Sense Polyvagal Model, Jan offers a paradigm shift, viewing addictive behaviors as adaptive strategies for managing dysregulated states. Throughout our discussion, she dismantles the traditional brain disease narrative, instead celebrating the body's innate intelligence and advocating for a treatment approach that respects its capacity for self-regulation.Triggers, those emotional tripwires, are typically seen as obstacles, but what if we viewed them as signals pointing us toward deep-seated healing? Jan guides us through this reframe, leveraging the polyvagal theory to decode the language of our nervous system. The journey through ventral, dorsal, and sympathetic states illuminates the intricate dance of our reactions to stress and trauma, with Jan's insights offering a map to navigate these complex territories. By embracing and understanding our body's responses, we open the door to a life more authentically lived and aligned with our true self.But what does the path to recovery from addiction and trauma really look like? Jan paints a picture of resilience and hope, emphasizing the importance of neuroplasticity and the human capacity to rebuild and recover. She stresses that setbacks are not failures but part of a continuing story of growth, and how communities can become safe nests that foster healing and connection. By the end of our profound exploration, it's clear that understanding our neurophysiology can free us from the grip of fear, offering a beacon of hope to anyone entangled in the complexities of addiction and trauma.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Discover what happens when the seductive sweetness of sugar meets the science of addiction, as we sit down with Dr. Nicole Avena. Her illuminating research uncovers the alarming parallels between our cravings for sugar and the intense grip of drug addictions. Our discussion takes you deep into the mechanisms of the brain that are hijacked by sugar, reshaping everything we thought we knew about our daily diets. Dr. Avena's new book, "Sugarless," offers a compelling seven-step plan to escape the sugar snare, revealing that the battle against sugar addiction isn't just about willpower—it's about understanding the hidden forces at play in our food and our brains.If you've ever found yourself reaching for just one more sweet treat despite your best intentions, then this episode will resonate with you. We tackle the controversial intuitive eating movement and its clash with the realities of sugar's addictive nature. It's an eye-opening discussion on the necessity of awareness, and for some, a sugar-free path akin to abstinence from other addictive substances. We question the societal norms around processed foods and investigate the deceptive nature of artificial sweeteners. All this, while providing you with the knowledge to discern between the true needs of your body and the false hunger crafted by sugar's allure.Armed with Dr. Avena's expert guidance, we round out our chat with actionable steps to regain control over sugar consumption. The transformative journey to a sugarless life isn't a straight line, and we explore the value of patience, resilience, and self-compassion in this process. From revamping nighttime routines to handling social pressures, we share invaluable strategies that promise to empower you in rewriting your food narrative. Join us as we champion a movement towards a healthier, more informed future, one where sugar no longer holds the reins of our well-being.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Do you struggle with emotional eating? Healing is possible, and our guest Lacou Flipse is living proof. A former binge eater turned trauma-informed food coach, she's been helping women release emotional and binge eating for over a decade. Lacou shares her innovative "pleasuring process," an approach that separates pleasure from bingeing and transfers it to the pleasure of being present with ourselves. Instead of looking to food to fill us up emotionally, we come to the food fed - nourished from within. Lacou makes a distinction between intuitive eating and pleasure eating and shares her perspective that strict food rules obscure the opportunity to explore hidden layers.In this interview discuss the challenge of sugar addiction and how pleasure eating can be a lifeline for those grappling with it. Lacou emphasizes the importance of self-intimacy, the ongoing nature of recovery, and the need for continual refinement in your relationship with food. We also explore the concept of recovery that doesn't necessarily mean giving up certain foods altogether, instead, Lacou encourages using food as an invitation to delve deeper into our underlying issues and emotions, and even into how trauma can come into play.We conclude with a conversation on how insecure attachment (early childhood trauma) can manifest in compulsive eating and the critical role of pleasure in addressing our unmet needs. Join us for this deep and enriching discussion and gain insight into a non-abstinence-based approach to disordered eating. https://www.enlightenedmunch.com/https://www.facebook.com/EnlightenedMunch/https://www.instagram.com/LacouFlipse/Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

In this captivating podcast episode, I engage in a compelling conversation with the author of “Killing You Softly: How Sugar is Killing Us”, Rich Holman. This hard-hitting page-turner exposes the harms of sugar consumption and corporate efforts to hide these facts from the public.At the age of 73, Rich Holman describes himself as a “dead man walking.” He was putting his affairs in order assuming the end of his life was near. Rich had chronic aches and pains, grotesquely swollen feet, high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, and more. One day, by chance, he met a naturopathic doctor who recommended a 21-day strict no-sugar detox diet and everything turned around. It was nothing short of a miracle. Rich shares before and after photos of his feet that returned to normal size after only 7 days of eating whole foods! The rest of his body fully healed over time and today at the age of 80 he feels better than he has felt in decades!Rich’s dramatic health reversal inspired him to conduct 7 years of intense research into what science had to say about sugar. The more he researched, the more shocked and angry he became. He simply could not believe that no one - no doctor, no dietician, no medical expert - ever told him how his diet of refined carbs was making him sick and miserable. Prepare yourself for a profound eye-opener interview that exposes startling truths about the link between sugar and chronic diseases, and the influence of Big Pharma, Big Health, and Big Food in suppressing the facts. Rich holds nothing back as he shares the lies and coverups that have led to widespread misinformation that enables corporations to legally peddle junk food products known to be both addictive and destructive to human health.Tune in to hear a man - whose second chance at life - has inspired him to help others wake up to the insanity of our sugar consumption and find our path to freedom. He wants all of us to be able to relish our twilight years in the peak of health.Beyond the interview, be sure to seek out Rich's book on Amazon. The more people armed with the information and inspiration to break free from sugar's addictive grip and reclaim their health, the brighter our collective future becomes.https://www.amazon.com/Killing-You-Softly-How-Sugar/dp/B0CJLLLTCZFlorence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

The revolution of health and wellness is upon us, and leading this revolution is Udo Erasmus, a global innovator in the health and wellness industry. His unique food philosophy and exceptional product line have been transforming lives for decades. Udo was flagging threats to our health (seed oils, sugar and more) and solutions to metabolic syndrome (whole foods, supplements and self-care) long before some of us were even born!Our in-depth conversation with Udo touches on how refined carbs damage our microbiome, nutrient absorption, and mental health. And how probiotics, digestive enzymes and whole foods can help support and repair our digestive tract and strengthen our immune system. Udo's personal sugar story (with a funny highlight) and insights into inflammation’s impact on our bodies will strengthen your resolve to kick the sugar habit. And hopefully, make you think twice about feeding it to your loved ones including your children and grandchildren.What I loved most about this interview is the authentic inner peace Udo radiates. He places a refreshing emphasis on NOT just finding wellness but also self-contentment - something that can feel so elusive in our stressed lives. Udo shares highlights of his journey from stress and struggle to wellness and serenity. It touched me deeply.Tune in to this heart-opening episode and be reminded of the importance of aligning your diet with nature, avoiding sugar, and making a conscious effort to find peace inside, too. As an added bonus, Udo put together a free e-book called: “10 Ways to Kick Your Sugar Habit”. Download your copy here: https://udoerasmus.com/KickSugarWithUdoFlorence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Are you looking to naturally increase your energy without stimulants? Have you tried everything but still feel exhausted all the time? There is hope!Join me as I deep dive with Catharine Arnston, the founder of EnergyBits, into the world of algae (spirulina and chlorella) and their long list of amazing benefits including their capacity to fuel, protect, and repair our mitochondria.If our mitochondria are damaged - through poor nutrition, toxins, lack of self-care, etc - they cannot produce the energy we need. Resorting to caffeine, chocolate, etc for energy becomes our default. Fortunately, algae have the potential to improve the functioning of our mitochondria - the powerhouse of our cells—and thus naturally improve our energy levels. In addition, algae have also been shown to support the detoxification of the body, balance our hormones, reduce brain inflammation, support liver function, and more.Spirulina and chlorella are relatively unknown in the Western world but have been used as critical food sources in Asia for centuries. Most people do NOT know they are cyanobacteria and come complete with bio-available protein, vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, and antioxidants.Catharine shares her extensive research on these superfoods, discussing their alkaline properties, easy-to-digest nutrients, and beneficial impact on human health. We explore concerns about their safety and purity and learn more about how algae are grown and why not all algae are of the same quality.If you're looking for ways to improve your energy, heal and detoxify your body (a common goal among those who have previously consumed excess sugar), this episode is a must-listen.PS—Take advantage of Catharine’s once-a-year Cyber Monday sale. Get 25% off plus free shipping with code “CYBER”. Starts Sunday 11/26 and ends at midnight on Monday 11/27.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Ever wondered how the tiny organisms in our gut can profoundly impact our health? In this podcast episode, I sat down with Martha Carlin and delved into the intricate connection between gut health, sugar consumption, and our overall well-being.Martha Carlin's journey from a systems analyst to the founder of The Biocollective, a company focused on microbiome science, is nothing short of fascinating. Her groundbreaking research on probiotics and their potential role in diabetes management is altering the course of scientific discourse.During our conversation, we examined how our gut microbiome and sugar consumption interplay, influencing our overall well-being. Martha weaves together an engaging narrative of how pathogenic bacteria can affect nutrient absorption, drive our cravings, and produce harmful metabolites.Martha also shares about her Sugar Shift formula, a pioneering initiative aimed at managing glucose levels, inspired by her husband's battle with Parkinson's. The promising results from clinical trials on diabetics paint an optimistic picture for the future.In conclusion, understanding our microbiome's role in our health is essential. Through the pioneering work of scientists like Martha Carlin, we are gradually unraveling the mysteries of our gut. Their research can potentially lead to improved health outcomes and the development of innovative treatment methods for various diseases.15% OFF SugarShift: https://biotiquest.com/products/sugar-shift (use code: KICKSUGAR)Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE

Imagine a world where the key to mental wellness lies not in a pill bottle but on our plates. In the recent podcast episode, Dr. Chris Palmer, a renowned psychiatrist and researcher, offers insights into this intriguing field known as metabolic psychiatry. The discussion traverses his groundbreaking work on the potential of dietary interventions for mental health disorders, focusing particularly on the ketogenic diet.Dr. Palmer emphasizes that this diet, though initially designed to treat epilepsy, is a metabolic intervention that profoundly affects brain function. Therefore, its potential in treating mental health disorders cannot be overlooked.The podcast delves into the critical question: could breaking up with sugar be the key to addressing both mental and physical health? It’s not an easy journey. It involves understanding your nutritional needs, battling withdrawal symptoms, and most importantly, persisting past the three-month mark. But the rewards could be a transformation in mental health.In conclusion, the episode encourages us to view nutrition not merely as a means of maintaining physical health but as a crucial player in mental health. It opens up a discussion on the potential of dietary interventions for mental health, sparking interest and curiosity about this nascent field. It invites us to join the movement to revolutionize mental health, one dietary intervention at a time.Florence's courses & coaching programs can be found at:www.FlorenceChristophers.comConnect with Florence on:FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE