Ep. 94: Navigating Health: Transforming Autoimmune Conditions with Nutrition and Self-Care - A Midlife Conversation with Andrea Nakayama

Send us a text When midlife and autoimmune disease collide, it can feel like navigating an uncharted wilderness. Yet, Andrea Nakayama"s personal triumphs and profound expertise in functional medicine nutrition light up the path to wellbeing. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, as Andrea shares her own journey with Hashimoto"s disease and how she"s turned adversity into advocacy for those wrestling with chronic illnesses. We also talk about an ingenious life hack—a medical planner—that could revolutionize how you keep tabs on your health, and Ellen"s enchanting mason jar fairy lights to add a sprinkle of magic to your evenings. Tackling autoimmune diseases requires more than just medication—it"s about understanding the symphony of factors that play together in our bodies. In this heartfelt conversation, we unravel how diet, lifestyle, and even our mindset shape our health landscape. Andrea eloquently describes the "tree of symptoms," urging us to look beyond the branches and explore the roots, diving into the worlds of genetics, digestion, and inflammation. We also dive into the practicalities of managing conditions like lupus amidst the challenges of medical gaslighting, emphasizing the importance of self-trust and the art of narrative medicine. In our quest for optimal health, Andrea reminds us of the three pillars of nutrition: fat, fiber, and protein. She guides us on how to balance our meals for our gut"s sake, harmonize our hormones, and fortify our overall health. The conversation culminates with actionable steps—simple yet transformative dietary and lifestyle adjustments that can have outsized impacts on autoimmune disease management. As we share Andrea"s wisdom, we illuminate the path for anyone seeking to reclaim their health, one mindful bite at a time. Obsessions: Tish: Medical Planner Ellen: Colored Mason Jars outdoor lights By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. The  Positively Midlife Podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only.  Support the show Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45 A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world. Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify Support the show Website: www.thepositivelymidlifepodcast.com Email: postivelymidlifepod@gmail.com