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Food Allergies vs. Food Sensitivities: What Your Immune System Is Telling You
Immune hypersensitivities encompass a wide range of symptoms from itchy skin and watery eyes, to anaphylaxis and digestive upset. Some reactions are considered allergies and others are sensitivities. All of these reactions are the immune system’s response to a specific stimulus that would not normally cause a reaction. IgE, immunoglobulin E, is the antibody response that is produced by true allergies, or type 1 hypersensitivities. The body produces IgE antibodies after exposu

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Feb 242 min read


Crispy Tofu "Chicken" Nugget Recipe
High-protein. Low-carb. Tofu skeptics approved! Watch recipe here - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTyDcifjwnq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Why tofu (especially for women): Supports hormone balance (phytoestrogens) Supports bone health Supports heart health Blood-sugar friendly Choose organic tofu to avoid GMO/ultra-processed soy Bonus: why nutritional yeast is a powerhouse: Rich in B-vitamins (energy + nervous system support) Adds extra complete plant p

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Feb 181 min read


Rethinking Mental Health Treatment: The Role of Amino Acid Therapy
Looking for an alternative to mental health pharmaceuticals? Amino acid therapy may be what you’re searching for. Amino acids are small particles of broken down proteins that are used to produce neurotransmitters and hormones in the body, which directly impact our mental health and emotional state. There are twenty amino acids, nine of which are considered essential because they cannot be synthesized by the body and must be acquired through food. Amino acid supplements have b

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Feb 172 min read


Dry Yogurt (aka Labneh)
Straining yogurt removes whey (liquid lactose + water) leaving a thicker, higher-protein, lower-sugar, probiotic-rich spread. Watch recipe here - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DT29lQgCto2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Why it’s different: ~2x protein by volume Lower lactose (easier to digest) More concentrated probiotics More satiating → better blood sugar response How to make it: 2 cups full-fat organic plain yogurt ¼ tsp sea salt (optional) (any natural

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Feb 131 min read


Spinach & Bacon Egg Muffins Recipe
These spinach & bacon egg muffins are protein-packed, blood-sugar friendly, and perfect for busy mornings or slow cozy ones alike. Meal prep once, feel good all week. Watch the recipe here - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTvVhg-Cqn1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Recipe (makes 12 muffins): Ingredients: • 1 tbsp olive oil • 1 lb pork sausage, (casings removed) or bacon ( we use beef bacon ) • 2 cups baby spinach, chopped • 16 eggs • 1/2 cup water (or milk

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Feb 131 min read


Natural Laundry Soap
Most of us use laundry detergent, but we should switch to laundry soap. Detergent is made from synthetic chemicals, while soap uses natural ingredients. Making this simple switch can help you reduce your toxin load, improve your health, and reduce environmental impacts. The primary benefit of choosing natural laundry soap is improved skin health. Laundry detergents do not completely wash out of clothing, in fact, some chemicals are designed to stay on clothing to make them lo

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Feb 102 min read


How a Healthy Microbiome Supports GLP-1 and Natural Weight Regulation
GLP-1 agonist medications have become a common weight loss method, but there are natural ways to increase GLP-1. GLP-1 increases satiety and is naturally produced by the body in response to nutrient density, but the amount of GLP-1 released depends on the presence of certain probiotic strains. Supporting gut health through diet changes and introducing healthy bacteria via supplementation can support the natural release of GLP-1 without taking medications. An interesting stud

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Feb 33 min read


Smarter Hydration: Beyond Brightly Colored Sports Drinks
Many people drink sports drinks when they are not exercising, because they think that it supports their hydration. However, there are many different things to consider before buying another brightly colored sports drink. There are different classifications of sports drinks, based on the ratio of sugar and salt in the drink. Hypotonic sports drinks contain a lower concentration of salt and sugar than the concentration that is in the body. Isotonic sports drinks contain a simi

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Jan 273 min read


Why Fortified Foods and Synthetic Vitamins May Be Failing You
Many vitamins, including B vitamins, can be sourced from fortified/enriched foods. However, these foods are fortified with synthetic, man-made vitamins. More than 98% of supplements also contain synthetic vitamins. These synthetic vitamins do not function like natural vitamins in the body and can cause negative health effects. Compared to whole food derived supplements, synthetic vitamins are poorly absorbed by the body, less effective, more likely to be contaminated with har

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Jan 203 min read


Choosing the Right Alternative Milk
Dairy alternatives, like almond, soy, coconut, oat, cashew, pea, and rice milks, are growing in popularity. Cow’s milk is one of the most common allergens in both children and adults, and about 36% of the US population has lactose malabsorption. Many choose plant-based milk alternatives for their flavor and longer shelf life. Choosing the healthiest milk alternative can help support general health and wellness. There are many ingredients to watch out for when cruising the ai

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Jan 136 min read


Why is Eating Sugar Bad?
Excessive sugar intake has been linked to many health conditions, from obesity to cancer. Too much dietary sugar causes a spike in blood sugar that leads to insulin resistance and a host of health conditions. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary energy source, but too many carbohydrates, especially from processed foods, can pose health risks. “Carbohydrates are classified into two subtypes of sugar: monosaccharides, or "simple sugars" (consisting of one molecule), and disac

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Jan 62 min read


Vitamin D Deficiency and Some Things You Should Know
Many people are told that they are deficient in vitamin D, however, traditional supplementation may not be the best response and many people may not be truly deficient. Sources of vitamin D include sunlight, foods, fortified foods, and supplements. The body synthesizes vitamin D from sunlight. Spending at least 15 minutes outside everyday is sufficient to receive adequate vitamin D. Food sources that naturally contain vitamin D include cod liver oil, salmon, swordfish, tuna f

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Dec 30, 20253 min read


Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from the Renewed Hope Team
As the year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to extend our warmest holiday wishes to you and your loved ones. This season is a time for reflection, gratitude, and connection—and we couldn’t let it pass without saying thank you. To all our clients: thank you for entrusting us with your health journey. It’s a privilege to support you as you work toward your goals, overcome challenges, and invest in your well-being. Your dedication inspires us every day, and we’re trul

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Dec 23, 20251 min read


Thyroid Conversion - Stress Reduction, Diet Changes, and Mineral Support
Thyroid issues can be frustrating and difficult to navigate. Many people are not aware of the role of thyroid hormone conversion. The pituitary gland releases TSH, which signals the thyroid to produce T4 and T3 (Walker, 2024). 94% of the hormones produced by the thyroid are T4, and only 6% are T3 (Redd, n.d.). Cells require T3, the active form of thyroid hormone, to carry out vital functions (Walker, 2024). When the conversion of T4 to T3 is not operating properly, you may ex

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Dec 16, 20255 min read


Benefits of Working with a Health Coach
Whether you have a chronic disease, want to lose weight, or want to prevent future health conditions, health coaching may be right for you. Health coaches provide support, personal recommendations, and tailored plans to keep you on track with your health goals. A large body of scientific evidence, including over 100 studies, shows that health coaching is effective. “According to a recent study, coaching ‘results in clinically relevant improvements in multiple biomarker risk f

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Dec 9, 20252 min read


The Benefits of Infrared Sauna
Using an infrared sauna on a regular basis is a great way to optimize your health and support your body. Benefits of infrared saunas include detoxification, immunity boosting, weight loss, stress reduction, mental performance, pain relief, skin rejuvenation, mold detox, and longevity. When a sauna raises your core body temperature, your body’s natural reaction is to sweat. When you sweat in a relaxed state, it promotes blood flow to your organs, creating a detox that starts

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Nov 18, 20252 min read


The Benefits of a PEMF Therapy Mat
Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field (PEMF) therapy uses technology to stimulate and exercise cells to help resolve cellular dysfunction and to support overall wellness. Pulsed PEMF therapy charges your cells like batteries. It’s common for cells to slowly be drained of energy from the stresses of daily life. By the end of the day, your body and mind may feel tired and depleted, that’s where PEMF technology can help. This therapy amplifies your natural energy and encourages your b

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Nov 11, 20253 min read


Forever Chemicals in Feminine Hygiene Products
Every month, women rely on feminine hygiene products. These products often contain substances that can be harmful to health and come in contact with the most sensitive and absorbent areas of the female body. The most concerning chemicals are PFAS, phthalates, parabens, phenols, “fragrance”, VOCs, pesticides, and dioxins and dioxin-like compounds. PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” have been linked to “decreased fertility, high blood pressure in pregnant people, increased risk of c

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Nov 4, 20253 min read


Fluoride Exposure: A Hidden Threat to Your Health?
Fluoride is found in most dental care products, prescription medications, and the water supplies of millions of people. The primary dangers of fluoride are brain and CNS damage, lowered IQ, moderate carcinogenicity, increased risk of bone fractures, hypothyroidism risk, interference with sexual development, and increased risk of diabetes development. Calcium fluoride occurs naturally in the soil and water and is not well absorbed by the body. However, the form of fluoride add

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Oct 28, 20253 min read


Decaf - Healthy or Toxic?
Many people choose to drink decaffeinated coffees and teas to lower their caffeine intake. However, most people fail to consider the health implications of the conventional processes used to decaffeinate coffee beans and tea leaves. There are three methods used to decaffeinate beverages. Chemical decaffeination, Swiss water processing, and the carbon dioxide method. , Each of these methods uses a different solvent to extract the caffeine from the coffee beans or tea leaves.

Happy Spurling, CFMC, CNHP, CNC, & BCHHP
Oct 21, 20252 min read
Blog: Fuctional Medicine Counselor
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