What They Didn’t Tell You About GLP-1 | GLP 1 Weight Loss and Functional Health
As you’ve seen here, the research is very clear - GLP-1s at higher doses help people improve cardiometabolic markers, support the function of insulin, and help people lose weight.
The research is also very clear that slower motility and rapid weight loss have many negative health effects, and that benefits seen while on a GLP-1 nearly reverse after discontinuing.
These are risks worth considering when exploring a GLP-1 weight loss protocol.
What is a GLP-1, really?
Let’s get one thing out of the way - I am not here to demonize GLP-1s, or tell you whether or not you should take them. But as a functional health practitioner, I question everything - especially in a world drowning in oversimplified health advice and docs who won’t (or can’t) address anything that doesn’t fit neatly into a 15-minute appointment.
I scour for credible research, continue my own nutrition education, and pay attention to what I see in practice with my own clients who are on GLP-1s.
My biggest concern is not the GLP-1 medications themselves - my concern is with the absence of informed consent. It’s true that GLP-1s can improve markers of cardiac and metabolic health - but it is not a magical unicorn 🦄. Every health decision has its risks, and you deserve to be informed of those risks in their entirety.
Hello, my little love handles. I’m Hilary Beckwith, ex-dieter and functional health expert. Women with PCOS/PMOS, IBS, and autoimmune conditions come to see me with signs of adrenal stress, insulin resistance, and inflammatory conditions, and my job is to find the root causes so we can address their symptoms more effectively and fill in the gaps between their lab values and how their body actually feels. Before you continue, click here to read my Medical Disclaimer.
In this article, you’ll learn:
What is a GLP-1 agonist?
Short- and long-term effects of GLP-1 for weight loss
Things to consider before undergoing a GLP-1 weight loss protocol
How to minimize harmful effects if you are already on a GLP-1 weight loss protocol
Root causes of weight gain that are often overlooked
what is a GLP-1?
THE SCIENCE-Y BITS
To understand what a GLP-1 is, it helps to understand receptor sites. Every cell in your body has receptor sites for various hormones, molecules, and proteins. A common example of this that you may already be familiar with is insulin - insulin is a hormone that binds to insulin receptor sites to allow glucose to enter and be metabolized.
Think of the receptor site as a lock, and the hormone/molecule/protein is the key meant to fit into that lock. Receptor types vary from cell to cell, depending on what the cell’s function is.
The difference between a door lock and these receptor sites is that, to unlock a door, you would need a specific key, or an exact replica of that key, and both keys would both have the outcome of opening the lock. But in the case of receptor sites, there are many types of keys that will fit, and each produces a different action, depending on which key is used.
SO, WHAT IS A GLP-1?
Glucagon-like peptide, or GLP, has a similar structure to glucagon (a hormone produced by the pancreas) that enables it to bind to glucagon receptor sites on cells. Put differently, GLP is one of the many types of keys that can unlock the glucagon door, but has a different outcome than glucagon itself.
The number ‘1’ is simply a differentiation between this GLP and other GLPs that stimulate a different action when binding to receptors. GLP-1s are made naturally by the body and are released after eating, binding to glucagon receptor sites. Here’s what that does:
inhibit glucagon release
stimulate insulin release
slow the rate at which your food empties from your stomach into your intestines (called gastric emptying)
SO, WHAT IS GLUCAGON?
Glucagon is a hormone produced by the pancreas in times of low blood sugar or stress, that stimulates the release of stored glucose from the liver and fat tissue. Blood glucose levels rise, insulin is released, and shuttles glucose into cells to be converted into fuel called ATP (adenosine triphosphate). This is the same glucose metabolism that we referred to earlier.
I don’t want to minimize the “stress” component I just mentioned - it is a very important consideration in blood sugar management, but too complex to get into for this post. If you want to learn more about how stress impacts blood sugar, hormone balance, sleep, and inflammation, click HERE.
OKAY, SO WHAT IS A GLP-1 AGONIST?
A GLP-1 agonist is the medication we are discussing in this post - exogenous sources of GLP-1 that have been shown to lower cardiac risk, improve A1c values, and, yes, help people rapidly lose weight. Common examples of GLP-1 agonists include semaglutides, liraglutides, tirzepatides, and exenatides.
The biggest difference between a GLP-1 agonist (exogenous), and GLP-1 produced by your body (endogenous), is that the impacts of endogenous GLP-1 are meant to last only 1-2 minutes, whereas the impacts of exogenous GLP-1 last for about 1 week.
Chances are, your prescriber has only told you that the benefit of exogenous GLP-1 is that it will cut “food noise” and help you feel full for longer so that you’ll eat less (yay?).
What they didn’t tell you is how that prolonged effect negatively impacts digestion, inflammation, gut health, and causes undernourishment, impacting a wide range of body systems.
LET’S SUMMARIZE:
GLUCAGON: a hormone produced by the pancreas in times of stress or low blood sugar, that stimulates the release of stored glucose from the liver and fat tissue, and to some extent, muscle.
ENDOGENOUS GLP-1: a molecule released after meals that binds to glucagon receptor sites to inhibit glucagon release, stimulate insulin release, and slow gastric emptying for about 1-2 minutes, helping to jumpstart glucose metabolism after eating.
EXOGENOUS GLP-1: a synthetic form of endogenous GLP-1 that has the same effect, but for a much longer period - about 7 days.
For the sake of simplicity, I will refer to exogenous GLP-1s (GLP-1 medications) as “GLP-1s” throughout the rest of this post.
GLP-1 weight loss protocols have their downsides
GLP-1 meds are not new. They’ve been used for 10+ years at much lower doses than they currently are for weight loss, to help those with Type II Diabetes manage blood glucose levels more effectively.
They’ve become trendy in recent years because it was discovered that at higher doses, a patient can lose weight rapidly without even trying. And isn’t it our goal, especially as women, to be as small as we can be? (where is the sarcastic font?)
Sarcasm aside, the fact is that people want to lose weight, and they want it to be easy - and GLP-1s make weight loss easy. I get why that’s appealing. For those who have tried ALL the diets, and ALL the workouts, ALL the supplements, this might seem like a dream come true.
Let’s look at the research and talk about some things to consider when starting a GLP-1 weight loss protocol.
health effects of GLP-1 weight loss protocol
IMPROVES CARDIOMETABOLIC MARKERS
YAY! For someone who is at severe, or even moderate, risk for cardio events, suffers from chronic illness that can make preventative actions more difficult, or for someone who has limited capacity to understand and execute this process - great!
HERE’S WHAT’S MISSING:
Cardiometabolic markers include markers like blood pressure, HbA1c, and lipid markers (cholesterol, triglycerides). For someone who is not at severe or even moderate risk for a cardiac event, these markers can be addressed more effectively by addressing early signs of metabolic dysfunction. A GLP-1 might stabilize those numbers while actively taking a GLP-1, but it all falls apart once you discontinue the GLP-1 and have made no changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Early signs of metabolic dysfunction include:
“hangry” between meals
trouble falling asleep, or staying asleep
sugar cravings
inflammatory conditions (acne, eczema, persistent pain, autoimmune diagnoses)
hormone imbalances (PCOS/PMOS diagnosis, irregular periods, mood instability, PMS symptoms.
Addressing these early signs through a functional health lens will ensure the results last beyond the duration of the GLP-1 meds.
QUIETS “FOOD NOISE”
YAY! Many of us are drowning in social media posts and marketing that uses fear-based tactics to get us to eliminate certain food groups, or that one superfood ingredient or supplement will change. our. lives. - this gets us overthinking about food - and that sh*t gets noisy! So, yeah, a medication that cuts that noise is appealing to those of us who feel overstimulated and confused.
HERE’S WHAT’S MISSING:
The mechanism by which GLP-1s eliminate “food noise” is by increasing and prolonging the feeling of satiety. One method it uses to do this is by delaying gastric emptying and slowing digestive motility - for a week!
Slowing down your digestion is a BIG problem. A healthy digestive system is wired to disinfect your food, move waste out of your system, and absorb nutrients that come from the food you are ingesting. Here’s what happens when your digestion moves too slowly:
Constipation - Feces are an important elimination pathway for toxins. When you are constipated, toxins become reabsorbed into your bloodstream, and can then become reactivated. It’s not just toxins from your food that are eliminated by feces - many toxins that are deactivated by the liver, also use feces as an elimination pathway, including:
excess steroid hormones that your liver has deactivated in order to maintain balance (estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, etc.)
debris from harmful viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens that your immune system has fought off
Increased SIBO risk (and other harmful microbes) - Stomach acid and motility are the two primary mechanisms your digestive system uses to eliminate harmful microbes, including opportunistic bacteria (leading to SIBO), parasites, candida/yeast, and viruses. The proliferation of these microbes leads to increased inflammation, increased cortisol levels, and a damaged gut lining (leaky gut, intestinal permeability). The longer food sits in your intestines, the more it will ferment and give these microbes the perfect environment to proliferate.
WEIGHT LOSS
While it may not be true across the board, weight loss is the main appeal for GLP-1 use in the populations I work with. And at higher doses, GLP-1s have been effective for weight loss ultimately by decreasing appetite and thereby restricting calorie intake.
HERE’S WHAT’S MISSING:
Calorie restriction over time actually slows metabolism. While the pounds practically melt off during a GLP-1 weight loss protocol, the research shows that calorie restriction over time will actually slow your body’s natural ability to burn calories. And since the primary weight loss mechanism of GLP-1 meds boils down to calorie restriction - it’s worth considering what life looks like after you stop taking it.
Liver congestion, toxic burden, chronic stress, and underlying infections are common non-calorie causes of weight gain.
If you are someone who really struggles to lose weight even though you’re doing all the “right” things - then calories are likely NOT the reason you can’t lose weight. Your body will hold onto fat stores and inhibit fat breakdown in cases of infection, stress, and hormone imbalances. Click HERE to read more about non-calorie causes of weight gain.
UNDERNOURISHMENT - I cannot overstate how important this topic is. While your scale numbers are going down, your lack of appetite will eventually lead to a body that is using its resources faster than you can replenish them.
Every function in your body requires nutrients. To name a few examples, glucose metabolism requires magnesium and many B- vitamins. Liver function and detoxification requires B vitamins, amino acids, cholesterol, and many minerals. Mood regulation largely relies on amino acids. “Full” does not equal “fueled”.
what the research shows
We’ve talked about the common claims of a GLP-1 weight-loss protocol, and the reality is all of them track. At the right dose, GLP-1s do live up to the hype of weight loss, improved cardiometabolic markers, and cutting the “food noise”.
Each of those claims comes with its own nuance that we also covered. The claims themselves are making it into the informed consent - but the nuances are not.
ADDITIONAL HEALTH EFFECTS OF GLP-1s:
DEHYDRATION: By increasing satiety, GLP-1s also decrease thirst cues, leaving you dehydrated. Why is hydration so important? Optimal hydration is needed for removal of waste through your lymphatic system, sweat, urine, and feces. Optimal hydration can also improve blood pressure by increasing blood volume, and helps lubricate joints, muscles, skin, and eyes. Sufficient hydration requires water AND well-balanced electrolyte minerals to draw the water into cells and tissues - nourishment and hydration go hand-in-hand.
INCREASED RISK OF GALLSTONES: Gallstones form when bile cannot move fluidly through the common bile duct and into your digestive tract. Because bile is formed from cholesterol, the increased movement of fat due to GLP-1s increases the concentration of fat in bile, making it more sluggish and increasing the likelihood of developing gallstones.
WEIGHT REGAIN AFTER GLP-1: A recent systematic review found that 60% of weight lost while on a GLP-1 weight loss protocol was regained in participants. What’s more, another study found that the weight regained came back as fat mass, not the lean mass that was lost.
RETURN OF CARDIOMETABOLIC MARKERS: The HbA1c, the blood pressure, the cholesterol, the lipids - those markers might improve while on a GLP-1 weight loss protocol, but this meta-analysis found that these markers, in addition to 2/3 of lost weight, were regained after discontinuing GLP-1.
BONE DENSITY LOSS DUE TO UNDERNUTRITION: A paper published in December, 2025 by UC Davis pointed out that essential nutrients are being missed when people are underfed, and especially those that support bone health.
how to prepare your body for success even after GLP-1s
As you’ve seen here, the research is very clear - GLP-1s at higher doses help people improve cardiometabolic markers, support the function of insulin, and help people lose weight.
The research is also very clear that slower motility and rapid weight loss have many negative health effects, and that benefits seen while on a GLP-1 nearly reverse after discontinuing.
These are risks worth considering when exploring a GLP-1 weight loss protocol.
Medications like GLP-1 and even nutritional supplements will only go so far if you are not also addressing root causes of the symptoms, issues, or conditions they are meant to support. GLP-1s on their own are only going to help while actively on them, but addressing functional health in addition to GLP-1s can set you up for long-term success.
STEPS FOR ADDRESSING FUNCTIONAL HEALTH WHILE ON A GLP-1 WEIGHT LOSS PROTOCOL:
OPTIMIZE GUT HEALTH: “Gut Health” is more than just digestion and probiotics. It is the health of your intestinal tissues, the state of your microbiota, and the ability for your mucosal immune system to keep you from harmful infections.
CURRENTLY ON A GLP-1: Seek out a functional practitioner trained to assess and address microbiome imbalances, dysbiosis, and inflammation.
BEFORE GLP-1: Seek out a functional practitioner trained to assess and address microbiome imbalances, dysbiosis, and inflammation. Address any findings and optimize inflammation, tissue health, and beneficial bacteria before disrupting it with slowed motility.
OPTIMIZE DIET: Lean mass is primarily what is lost when on a GLP-1 weight loss protocol. Consuming good-quality protein and developing a strong routine for strength training will help to counter this. But when digestion is slowed, as it is with a GLP-1, there is little appetite for protein. Here’s how to get ahead:
CURRENTLY ON A GLP-1: Think “protein-forward” meals. If all you have the appetite for is a few bites of food, prioritize good-quality proteins. Click HERE to learn how to choose good-quality proteins.
BEFORE GLP-1: Get in the habit of consuming sufficient protein before starting your GLP-1 (this will require optimizing digestion, too). Most people with a regular strength training routine need about 1.2-1.8 grams of protein per 1 kilogram of desired body weight.
OPTIMIZE HYDRATION: Sufficient hydration is important for bowel movements, blood pressure, and detoxification, but thirst cues are stunted when on a GLP-1.
CURRENTLY ON A GLP-1: Begin putting tools into action that will help remind you to drink. Phone or watch alarms, visual cues, notes - whatever works best for your lifestyle and habit development. Most individuals with normally functioning kidneys require a minimum of 0.5 fluid ounces per 1 pound of body weight, daily. Electrolyte minerals are also essential to fluid balance within cells and tissues, especially if you may be undernourished from GLP-1 use. This is my favorite electrolyte product.
BEFORE GLP-1: (same as above)
RESISTANCE TRAINING: GLP-1 breaks down lean mass (muscle tissue), and most weight lost while on a GLP-1 weight loss protocol comes back as fat mass. Staying ahead of strength training and muscle-building can help mitigate this effect.
CURRENTLY ON A GLP-1: Begin building a strength training routine 2-3 times per week. Working with a trainer knowledgeable in GLP-1 use is essential, as it may be unsafe to work out too intensely without proper nourishment.
BEFORE GLP-1: Get in the habit of strength training before you start a GLP-1, at least 2-3 times per week. This will support insulin sensitivity, build up a reserve of lean mass, and condition your body to handle resistance training, rather than starting new while on a GLP-1.
PLAN FOR PLEASURE: For many (myself included), food is pleasure, and even comfort. In fact, food can actually release dopamine and endorphins to block pain. If this is you, a GLP-1 will remove an important source of joy and comfort in your life by suppressing your appetite for food. The key is to plan ahead and make sure you have other sources for coping when appetite is suppressed.
CURRENTLY ON A GLP-1: It’s not too late for you. Before you do anything else, make a list. Name 3-5 easy-to-access things that bring you comfort or joy, besides food. No need to reinvent the wheel, just keep it simple and fun, and try to avoid more addictive behaviors like scrolling or substances. Your list might include:
reading a chapter of a book
single-song dance party
gratitude journal
sitting/walking in nature (without headphones)
grab a coffee or tea at your favorite shop
jumping on a trampoline
tell yourself a silly joke (really!)
tell someone else a silly joke
BEFORE GLP-1: Same as above, but now you have time to implement these alternative behaviors before the appetite suppression from a GLP-1 makes it more challenging.
learn something new?
What was your biggest takeaway from this article? Leave your thoughts and questions in the comments below, and I will do my best to respond soon!
Want help getting off a GLP-1 weight loss protocol?
Thyroid Symptoms Are Not Caused by Your Thyroid Gland
Why are your thyroid numbers off in the first place? Without understanding and addressing the root cause of your thyroid symptoms, you’re likely to stay on thyroid medication for years, even decades (I’ve seen it happen!).
Being prescribed a thyroid medication doesn’t have to be a life sentence. This article will help you avoid that scenario and know which questions to ask at your next check-up.
Thyroid symptoms are not caused by the thyroid gland
I see you, dear reader…
You got your annual bloodwork results back from your doc. They say you’ve got high TSH and low T3, and that you need to be put on thyroid medication to fix it.
No one asked about your stress levels. No one questioned your energy, sleep, or diet. No one asked about your digestive health or work life.
You take the medication as instructed for several months, and your thyroid levels improve, but you still feel like garbage.
But, why?
Why are your thyroid numbers off in the first place? Without understanding and addressing the root cause of your thyroid symptoms, you’re likely to stay on thyroid medication for years, even decades (I’ve seen it happen!).
Being prescribed a thyroid medication doesn’t have to be a life sentence. This article will help you avoid that scenario and know which questions to ask at your next check-up.
Hi friends. I’m Hilary Beckwith, ex-dieter and holistic nutrition expert. Clients come to see me with signs of adrenal stress and inflammatory conditions, and my job is to find the root causes so we can address their symptoms more effectively, and fill in the gaps between what their doctor is saying and what their body is saying.
In this article, you’ll learn:
what thyroid symptoms can look like
how the thyroid gland works
what affects thyroid hormones throughout the body
what to ask for on your thyroid blood panels
thyroid symptoms
What do thyroid symptoms look like?
Throughout my life and career, I’ve learned something very important: Everything is a spectrum.
Thyroid symptoms don’t look the same for everyone, and this article should not be construed as a diagnosis or medical advice. If you think you have thyroid symptoms or other medical conditions, consult with a trusted physician or other qualified healthcare provider before making any changes. Read my medical disclaimer here.
**Much of the information in this article has been referenced from the Thyroid Debacle, although additional research has also been linked where applicable.**
HYPO-THYROID (slow or sluggish thyroid) SYMPTOMS CAN INCLUDE:
weight gain, difficulty losing weight
brain fog
poor circulation
constipation
depression
fatigue (frequently tired for no apparent reason)
dry skin
coarse hair
reduced libido (low sex drive)
HYPER-THYROID (overactive thyroid) SYMPTOMS CAN INCLUDE:
unexplained weight loss
irritability
anxiety
excess sweating or heat intolerance
nervousness
insomnia
increased appetite
increased heart rate
heart palpitations
tremors
fatigue
how the thyroid works
To understand the cause of your thyroid symptoms, we first need to understand what the thyroid is and does.
The thyroid gland is small and butterfly-shaped, and is located on the front (anterior) side of the neck. Its main function is to regulate cellular metabolism, which is the chemical processes cells undergo to create energy.
The thyroid gland acts in response to stimulation from the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, collectively known as the HPT axis.
Here’s a brief overview of how this works:
Hypothalamus (brain) senses the need for energy, releases TRH (Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone)
TRH tells the Pituitary to release TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
TSH stimulates the production of T4 (thyroxine, the inactive form of thyroid hormone) by the thyroid gland
Some T4 is converted to T3 (triiodothyronine, the active form of thyroid hormone) within the thyroid, but mostly this conversion happens within the tissues and cells where it is used
Most T3 and T4 are bound to a protein called thyroglobulin and circulate throughout the body until needed. Unbound, or free, T3 and T4 are able to bind to receptors and be used when needed.
T3 is required for many functions, but regarding your metabolism, it is required for the transport of glucose into a cell in order to make ATP (Adenosine TriPhosphate: the energy our cells use to function).
But it first has to be converted from T4, and avoid being converted to reverse T3 in cells (we’ll get to that).
3 things that affect thyroid hormones
#1 - high estrogen:
Tyrosine and iodine are two main components of thyroid hormones. Elevated estrogen stops iodine (iodide) from entering the thyroid gland.
Elevated estrogen increases circulating thyroxine-binding-globulin (TBG), decreasing the amount of FREE (usable) thyroid hormone in the body.
Elevated estrogen increases the activity of deiodinase 3, the enzyme responsible for deactivating thyroid hormone in cells in an effort to preserve energy. The hormone produced in this process is called reverse T3 (rT3).
#2 - high oxalates:
Oxalates, or oxalic acid, is found in many foods (including soy, leafy greens, rhubarb, parsley, and cassava), but is also produced by certain strains of fungus, including aspergillus, penicillium, and candida. Exposure to mold, mold toxicity, or candida overgrowth are common causes of high oxalates.
Oxalates have been found to cause tissue damage in the brain, nerves, kidneys, and thyroid gland, and elevations have been strongly correlated with autism cases.
When oxalates are elevated, they can bind to calcium to form oxalate crystals, which have a strong affinity for the kidneys and the thyroid gland. These crystals damage the gland tissues and interfere with their function. If you’ve ever had kidney stones, these are oxalic crystals.
#3 - prolonged chronic stress:
Any kind of stress activates your fight or flight system, which signals your adrenal glands to release cortisol in order to shift energy and blood flow to tissues and organs essential to fight or flight. Elevated cortisol levels signal the thyroid gland to produce more TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and stop the conversion of T4 to T3.
This same stress response is modulated by the HPA axis (hypothalamus, pituitary, adrenal). Chronic stress means a chronic activation of the HPA axis, which interferes with the HPT[hyroid] axis we discussed earlier.
Unaddressed chronic stress causes cells to activate the Cell Danger Response (CDR) in order to preserve energy. CDR causes cells to stiffen cell walls to prevent nutrient transfer, release deiodinase 3 to deactivate thyroid hormone, and send out signaling hormones to summon immune cells to help. It’s your cells’ version of texting 9-1-1.
Examples of chronic stressors that often go unaddressed include:
what should be included in your thyroid labs?
When you have thyroid symptoms, testing for TSH and T4 are typically the only two things Western Medicine practitioners will test for. Occasionally, you might find a provider willing to also test for T3, free T4, and free T3.
Why so stingy with the testing? Because in the United States, most insurances require TSH to be elevated, and T4 to be low in order to diagnose hypothyroidism. Because these are the only two factors they require for diagnosis, insurance companies in the U.S. may not cover additional factors to be tested.
Being put on thyroid medication should not be a life sentence. Finding a practitioner who is willing to look for root causes of your thyroid symptoms is important. TSH and T4 are not enough to get a clear picture of the thyroid gland.
Here are some additional factors to request with your thyroid bloodwork:
TSH
T4, fT4
T3, fT3
rT3
thyroid antibodies
vitamin D (25OH and 1,25OH) - a high 125OH:25OH ratio suppresses thyroid antibody production. If this ratio is elevated, the thyroid antibody levels on your bloodwork may not be accurate.
estrogen (estradiol) - high estrogen affects thyroid function (as we discussed earlier). Estrogen levels are supposed to vary throughout your menstrual cycle. When testing for estrogen levels, it’s important to know which part of your cycle you’re in.
free iron (UIBC on labs) - elevated free iron levels may indicate increased cellular stress, and help you narrow the root causes of your thyroid symptoms.
CRP (C-Reactive Protein) - Elevated levels indicate increased inflammation, and may be indicative of cellular stress, pathogenic infection, or other internal stressors.
homocysteine - similar to CRP, elevated homocysteine may indicate increased inflammation due to tissue damage in the blood vessels. Elevated levels may also indicate a vitamin B12 and folate deficiency.
B12
folate
In addition to bloodwork, functional lab testing is essential to finding pathogenic infections that may be at the root of your thyroid symptoms.
I use functional lab testing to help my clients find parasites, overgrown bacteria, viruses, mold, and candida overgrowth. These are common pathogens that can contribute to cellular stress, inflammation, and thyroid symptoms.
Want to know more about how to support thyroid health? Read this article.
was this helpful?
Feeling more confident about addressing your thyroid symptoms? Do you have questions I didn’t address in this article?
Post your thoughts and questions in the comments below!
NUTRITION SERVICES
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Low FODMAP Diet and IBS Symptoms
Without also addressing digestive health and underlying stressors, changing your diet and supplements is a giant waste of your money. Probiotics and low-FODMAP foods might help your symptoms, but they are not going to resolve the why behind your IBS symptoms.
When clients come to me with IBS symptoms, I commonly look at their adrenal health, digestive health, liver health, dietary habits, sleep habits, and look for signs of pathogenic activity. When necessary, I’m also looking at specialized lab testing to find sources of these underlying stressors that are part of the root cause for their IBS symptoms.
IBS symptoms are the result of chronic stress
Has anyone ever told you that IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is an umbrella term for symptoms of digestive distress? Put differently, it’s not the cause of your IBS symptoms, it’s simply the name we’ve given them.
What that means is, there are ways to get rid of IBS symptoms by addressing their root causes. But chances are, that wasn’t explained to you when you received (or gave yourself) your IBS diagnosis. Addressing those symptoms requires a more individualized approach than simply following a low FODMAP diet.
This article will dig into potential root causes of IBS symptoms and provide information on how to address them so you can have more freedom and flexibility in your food choices and stop saying ‘no’ to social invites.
Hi friends. I’m Hilary Beckwith, ex-dieter and holistic nutrition expert. Clients come to see me with signs of adrenal stress and inflammatory conditions, and my job is to find the root causes so we can address their symptoms more effectively, and fill in the gaps between what their doctor is saying and what their body is saying.
In this article, we’ll discuss:
how to know if you might have IBS
common root causes of IBS symptoms
where western medicine is missing the mark when working to address your IBS symptoms - why low FODMAP and probiotics aren’t enough
steps you can take to address root causes of IBS symptoms
do you have IBS?
Cleveland Clinic classifies the following as IBS symptoms:
frequent constipation, OR
frequent diarrhea (or a combination of both)
excess gas
excess bloating
abdominal pain and/or cramping
mucus in your stool
unable to feel like you’ve completely evacuated a bowel movement
The word “syndrome” included in the term IBS, indicates these symptoms consistently occur together.
DISCLAIMER
Now is a good time to point out that the information you read in this article and throughout the website should not be construed as diagnosis or medical advice. But rather to provide information and education to help you make more informed decisions about your health, and to empower you to advocate for your own health in the presence of a medical practitioner. Click here to read the full disclaimer.
Do you need a diagnosis of IBS to be able to address underlying causes? Absolutely not.
If you are interested in getting an official IBS diagnosis, consult with a trusted licensed physician who can provide an IBS diagnosis after a proper examination.
While Cleveland Clinic contradicts itself by calling IBS both a cause of symptoms and a “group of symptoms”, I have to give them credit for pointing out the interaction between the gut and the brain, further pointing to “childhood stress” as one common cause of IBS symptoms.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN IBS AND IBD
IBS is an acronym for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, a group of symptoms that consistently occur together, that does not cause damage or inflammation to the intestines.
IBD is an acronym for Inflammatory Bowel Disease, which is an umbrella term that includes Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis, both of which cause inflammation and damage to the intestines. According to Cleveland Clinic, IBD is incurable.
I would argue that there are ways of reducing underlying stress and systemic inflammation that may help symptoms of IBD in addition to addressing digestive health and adrenal health as a whole.
Addressing these symptoms goes deeper than following a low FODMAP diet. It requires an individualized look at your body’s symptoms, history, and needs. That’s the work I do.
common causes of IBS symptoms
Earlier we discussed how Cleveland Clinic describes the causes of IBS symptoms, but let’s break it down a bit more. I’ve used the list of common IBS symptoms we looked at earlier in the article, and provided common root-causes I see in my clients who have these symptoms.
potential causes of constipation
candida overgrowth
low stomach acid
slow motility (food does not move quickly enough through your digestive system)
lesions in the gut lining
dehydration
potential causes of diarrhea
intestinal inflammation (it’s possible IBS doesn’t cause inflammation and tissue damage, but it can certainly be caused by it)
food intolerances
unaddressed infection, such as bacterial overgrowth, Lyme, h. pylori, clostridia, or parasites
heightened adrenal response (chronically active fight or flight response)
potential causes of excess gas
low stomach acid and digestive juices
poor protein digestion
slow motility
diet high in fermentable foods (high FODMAP)
bacterial overgrowth in small or large intestine
potential causes of excess bloating
(see potential causes of excess gas)
potential causes of abdominal pain and/or cramping
Because the abdomen consists of many organs, it’s difficult to provide generalized information about what may be causing abdominal pain or cramping.
If you experience abdominal pain or cramping, please consult with a trusted healthcare practitioner.
potential causes of mucus in your stool
mucus membranes are home to part of your immune system (think congestion when you get a head cold). Mucus in your stool can indicate immune activity, fight off a gut infection such as bacterial overgrowth, candida, parasites, or mold.
constipation - if you’re constipated, your body may secrete mucus in order to help you evacuate a bowel movement
ulcerative colitis
potential causes of feeling unable to completely evacuate a bowel movement
parasitic infection
congested liver
dehydration
chronic sympathetic nervous system response (fight or flight) due to stress
low FODMAP and probiotics aren’t enough to address IBS symptoms
Here’s where Western medicine and health influencers are missing the mark.
I commonly hear clients and friends who experience digestive symptoms (including IBS symptoms) tell me that they’ve tried probiotics and low-FODMAP diets for their symptoms, with little or short-lived success.
It’s also common for me to hear that they were instructed to do so by their Primary Care Physician or that they saw it on socials somewhere.
Without also addressing digestive health and underlying stressors, changing your diet and adding supplements is a giant waste of your money. Probiotics and low-FODMAP foods might help your symptoms, but they are not going to resolve the cause of your IBS symptoms.
When clients come to me with IBS symptoms, I commonly look at their adrenal health, digestive health, liver health, dietary habits, sleep habits, and look for signs of pathogenic activity. When necessary, I also look at specialized lab testing to find sources of these underlying stressors that are part of the root cause of their IBS symptoms.
The process of eradicating these pathogens is specific to each person, the severity of the infection, and includes personalized dietary support. Once the pathogens are successfully eradicated (confirmed with lab testing), THEN we rebuild the gut microbiome with probiotics.
So, while low-FODMAP diets and probiotics might temporarily help with your symptoms, they are not fixing the problem.
steps you can take to address root causes of IBS symptoms
ADDRESS DIGESTION - This may seem rudimentary, but it is fundamental to addressing IBS symptoms. Mindful eating (sitting down to meals, undistracted, chewing adequately, relaxing) are all ways to effectively support your digestion.
Additionally, clients who show indications of low stomach acid production or intestinal inflammation are also recommended supplements to temporarily support those functions, as well.
This Digestion Troubleshooting Guide will help you understand the basics of healthy digestion, and troubleshoot your own symptoms.
ADDRESS ADRENAL HEALTH - This is a broad feat, and requires more than a simple blog paragraph can offer, but like digestion, it is essential to long-term solutions for IBS symptoms.
Addressing adrenal health requires a look at sleep, blood sugar regulation, mental health, activity levels and timing, and light exposure. The adrenal glands regulate sleep, stress, hormone balance, fluid balance, and energy production.
If you want a closer look at supporting adrenal health, check out this article.
GET TESTED - Before you can address gut pathogens, we first need to know what they are. Addressing mold is different than addressing bacterial overgrowth (same for candida, h. pylori, parasites, and other factors). Lab testing is the only way to know for sure what we’re dealing with.
In order to know which type of testing best suits your symptoms, we need to have a face-to-face conversation. Book a free 30-minute consultation so we can figure it out together.
YES! EAT A LOW-FODMAP DIET! - By writing this article, I’m not suggesting low-FODMAP diets or probiotics won’t help. I’m pointing out why those two remedies are not enough to resolve your IBS symptoms. As you can see, IBS is more complex than that, but there is hope! And eating low-FODMAP can help reduce your symptoms.
FODMAP is an acronym that stands for:
Fermentable
Oligosaccharides
Disaccharides
Monosaccharides
And Polyols
IBSDiets.org put out a comprehensive FODMAP food list here that will help get you started.
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Ashwagandha for Anxiety and Anxiety Symptoms
There are many potential causes for anxiety symptoms, many of which should be addressed by a mental health professional. If you are experiencing depression or anxiety symptoms, please seek help immediately from a qualified specialist.
In this article, I’ll be looking at one specific potential cause of anxiety symptoms in relation to gut health and nutrition. A factor that often gets overlooked by other healthcare professionals, because it’s not commonly tested for.
If you experience anxiety symptoms, blood sugar issues, and sleep issues, this is something worth considering.
Potential root causes of anxiety symptoms
I love ashwagandha!
In fact, I've used ashwagandha and a variety of other adaptogenic herbs recommended to me by an herbalist, to support my own healing and anxiety symptoms.
But what I'm also doing is finding and addressing the root causes of my symptoms. My anxiety and blood sugar issues were not caused by not taking ashwagandha, nor will they be resolved long-term by taking it.
Hi friends. I’m Hilary Beckwith, ex-dieter and holistic nutrition expert. Clients come to see me with signs of adrenal stress and inflammatory conditions, and my job is to find the root causes of their anxiety symptoms so we can address their symptoms more effectively, and fill in the gaps between what their doctor is saying, and what their body is saying.
Click here to view our website disclaimer.
In this article, you’ll learn:
one commonly-overlooked cause of anxiety symptoms
my favorite lab test for finding root causes
long-term relief for anxiety symptoms
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the root cause you won’t see on your annual bloodwork
There are many potential causes for anxiety symptoms, many of which should be addressed by a mental health professional. If you are experiencing depression or anxiety symptoms, please seek help immediately from a qualified specialist.
In this article, I’ll be looking at one specific potential cause of anxiety symptoms in relation to gut health and nutrition. A factor that often gets overlooked by other healthcare professionals, because it’s not commonly tested for.
If you experience anxiety symptoms, blood sugar issues, and sleep issues, this is something worth considering.
I’m talking about… CLOSTRIDIA INFECTION.
Some species of clostridia bacteria are known to cause symptoms of anxiety, blood sugar issues, and sleep issues, due to their relationship with dopamine.
I'd bet good money that your GP is not testing for clostridia on your annual bloodwork (and that's why practitioners like me are here!)
a closer look at clostridia
The image below is a snapshot of specialized lab results from a person I worked with who had all of the symptoms mentioned above.
Specifically, we're looking at the 'HPHPA' marker.
You’ll notice that for HPHPA, 208 is the MAX we should see on this test. This test detected levels of 1511, it’s literally off the charts!
Here's what having high levels of HPHPA means for your anxiety symptoms:
HPHPA is a metabolite of a certain group of Clostridia bacteria found in the GI tract, including Clostridia sporogenes, Clostridia caloritolerans, and Clostridia botulinum, among others.
Additionally 4-cresol (also shown in the image above) is a metabolite produced specifically by Clostridia difficile (you may have heard this called “C-diff”).
High markers of HPHPA and/or 4-cresol means that there is a likely infection of certain types of clostridia bacteria in the GI tract.
These types of Clostridia are known to inhibit the enzyme responsible for breaking down dopamine, called dopamine-beta-hydroxylase.
Too much dopamine might seem like a good thing, right?
Dopamine feels great at the moment, but when it's chronically maxed, it infiltrates the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in a constant fight or flight response, modulated by the sympathetic nervous system.
PUT MORE SIMPLY:
Elevated Clostridia metabolites prevent the breakdown of dopamine, causing a chronically stimulated fight or flight response, potentially resulting in anxiety symptoms, sleep issues, and blood sugar issues.
addressing root causes for anxiety symptoms
I am a big advocate for seeking licensed professional support for your mental health and wellness. And to be clear, I do not claim to be a mental health professional, nor do I offer treatment from that perspective.
What I can (and do!) help with is supporting nutritional factors for signs and symptoms of neurotransmitter dysfunction and hormone imbalances, often rooted in the gut or diet.
I believe that addressing mental health and wellness often requires a multi-faceted approach that requires care from an integrative support team. So, in addition to your other licensed mental health practitioners, it may also be worth considering a nutritional approach to addressing your anxiety symptoms.
HERE’S WHAT THAT MIGHT LOOK LIKE
If Clostridia infection has been detected on this specialized blood panel, this very well may be one factor in your anxiety symptoms, and the heightened fight or flight response may also be causing blood sugar issues and sleep issues.
Clostridia is a type of bacteria, and the types found here that disrupt dopamine breakdown, are found specifically in the digestive tract.
Eradicating Clostridia, or any type of bacterial overgrowth in the gut, requires a strategic and holistic approach.
The short-term fix would be a round or two of prescription antibiotics from your GP or other physician and/or anti-anxiety medications. These can both be helpful, but may not support the long-term issue.
THE LONG-TERM SOLUTION OFTEN ENTAILS:
addressing digestive health as a whole, including digestive enzymes, stomach acid support, intestinal tissue healing, bowel movements, and liver health
temporary restriction of carbs and sugars that feed bacteria
nutrients to break down biofilm, a sticky film in which the bacteria live and hide
potent antimicrobial botanicals shown to eradicate bacterial pathogens
carefully curated probiotics to rebuild the microbiome after we’ve killed off the invaders (antibiotics, even botanicals, kill all bacteria, even the beneficial ones)
FAST FORWARD
After 4 weeks of addressing root cause factors, we re-tested the client whose lab results were shown above, and found the HPHPA markers came down significantly:
So, you can continue taking ashwagandha for the rest of your days to help with your anxiety symptoms, blood sugar issues, and sleep issues.
OR...
You could seek long-term solutions by finding a qualified practitioner who is trained to find the root causes of your anxiety symptoms.
WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT?
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Mold Toxicity Symptoms | Treatment for Hidradenitis Suppuritiva
Mold toxicity symptoms often get overlooked by healthcare professionals, because they overlap with other types of conditions that are commonly treated separately without looking at the root cause.
In this article, we’ll discuss mold toxicity symptoms, and how they are commonly associated with autoimmune diseases like Hashimotos thyroiditis, hidradenitis suppuritiva, multiple sclerosis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or chronic fatigue syndrome.
Mold toxicity symptoms
Mold toxicity symptoms often get overlooked by healthcare professionals, because they overlap with other types of conditions that are commonly treated separately without looking at the root cause.
In this article, we’ll discuss mold toxicity symptoms, and how they are commonly associated with autoimmune diseases like Hashimotos thyroiditis, hidradenitis suppuritiva, multiple sclerosis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or chronic fatigue syndrome.
Hi friends. I’m Hilary Beckwith, ex-dieter and holistic nutrition expert. Clients come to see me with signs of adrenal stress and inflammatory conditions, and my job is to find the root causes so we can address their symptoms more effectively, and fill in the gaps between what their doctor is saying, and what their body is saying.
Mold toxicity is a common root cause of many inflammatory conditions.
In this article, you’ll learn:
what mold toxicity symptoms look like
what conditions are commonly associated with mold toxicity
the difference between mold and mold toxins
sources of mold and mold toxin exposure
my three-pronged approach to treating mold toxicity symptoms
Follow my email feed to stay up-to-date on new articles like this one. Click here to subscribe.
how do mold toxicity symptoms show up?
Mold toxicity symptoms will manifest different in everyone, and it’s possible there are multiple causes for these symptoms.
Our healthcare system is missing the mark when someone presents with many of these symptoms, and potential root causes are never tested for. Traditional healthcare providers are trained to suppress symptoms, but in and of itself, symptom suppression blatantly ignores the root cause, which ultimately makes the symptoms worse over time.
If you regularly experience any of these symptoms, mold toxicity is worth considering as a root cause.
COMMON MOLD TOXICITY SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:
dizziness
low blood pressure
electric shock sensations, tremors, or vibrations
tinnitus (ringing in ears)
GI (gastrointestinal) or digestive issues
sensitivity to chemicals, perfumes or smells
night sweats and body temperature dysregulation
chronic fatigue
depression and/or anxiety
hormone imbalances (blood sugar issues, irregular periods, PMS symptoms, etc.)
body pain, chronic pain
nosebleeds
frequent urination or excess thirst
memory loss or brain fog
conditions associated with mold toxicity
When the body is exposed to mold toxins, whether from environmental sources, food sources, or produced by mold in the body, and if the condition is not addressed in a timely manner, this leads to an inflammatory response called the Cell Danger Response.
If the mold toxicity (the root cause) remains unaddressed, this develops into a chronic condition known as Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, or CIRS.
Cell Danger Response and CIRS can both develop as a result of any pathogen that goes undiagnosed or unaddressed, not just mold toxicity. Other pathogens that commonly fall into this category (and are not commonly tested for by your traditional Western Medicine practitioner) are candida albicans, H. pylori, parasites, and bacterial overgrowth.
WHAT HAPPENS IN CELL DANGER RESPONSE?
Pulling directly from a recent article I wrote about conditions related to Candida, here is what happens during a Cell Danger Response (2):
Mitochondria (the powerhouse of cells) begin by producing more fuel and releasing metabolic intermediates, like oxygen and reactive oxygen species.
When this does not resolve the threat, energy production begins to shut down in order to preserve energy. Digestion is also disturbed as it is non-essential to dealing with the pathogen, and your fatigue increases.
Cell membranes (also known as cell walls) stiffen, preventing nutrients from transferring in and out of cells for energy production.
Mitochondria release antiviral and antimicrobial chemicals into the fluid surrounding the cells.
Sends chemical signals to warn neighboring cells, and signal for help from immune cells such as eicosanoids and cytokines.
The Sympathetic Nervous System (“fight or flight” response) is kicked on until the threat is resolved. If candida goes unnoticed or undiagnosed, your “fight or flight” response will be in ON-mode indefinitely.
When the stressor is left unaddressed, this cascade of inflammatory response can lead to chronic illness, chronic pain, and autoimmune disease.
CONDITIONS THAT MAY BE LINKED WITH MOLD TOXICITY
Asthma (1)
Autoimmune diseases, such as Irritable Bowel Disease (IBS), Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, Hidredenitis Suppuritiva, Rheumatoid Arthritis, or Multiple Sclerosis
Leaky Gut Syndrome
PCOS (PolyCystic Ovarian Syndrome)
Interstitial Cystitis
Depression
Anxiety
Balance issues
Dementia
the difference between mold and mold toxins
Molds are a type of fungi made up of multi-cellular filaments called hyphae (1). It is commonly heard that black mold is the only type of toxic mold, but there is simply not enough evidence to support this claim. Mold can be found in air, soil, plants, animals, and humans, and grows in places with lots of moisture.
We’ll talk more about common sources of mold exposure further down in the post.
Mold is a living organism, and when it is threatened, it produces mold toxins as a defense mechanism. These toxins, known as mycotoxins, are known to disrupt the mucosal barrier of lungs, intestines, and other epithelial tissues throughout the body, in order to make the space more suitable for mold to grow and thrive.
This disruption of epithelial tissue causes an inappropriate inflammatory response.
sources of mold and mold toxins
PACKAGED OR FRESH FOODS - This goes for any food, although there are also foods that are naturally high in yeast and mold (below). Regardless of whether your food is past its expiration date, it’s possible mold is growing on it. Always look before you sniff.
DUST
INSIDE WALLS OR WINDOWS OF YOUR HOME
BUILDINGS THAT HAVE TAKEN WATER DAMAGE
WINDOWS OR VENTS OF YOUR CAR
ANY SPACE THAT IS GENERALLY MOIST
FOODS THAT NATURALLY CONTAIN HIGH AMOUNTS OF MOLD OR YEAST:
grains
cheese
mushrooms
fermented foods (yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, natto, kefir, aged cheese, etc.)
dried fruit
chocolate
coffee beans
wine and beer
processed meat
nuts
milk
treatment for mold toxicity symptoms
Pathogens like mold, mold toxins, candida, bacteria overgrowth, and parasites, are all potential root causes for autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions like IBS and leaky gut syndrome.
Treatment for any pathogen requires an individualized approach and specialized testing to know exactly which pathogens are causing the problem. But at the heart of it, treatment for mold toxicity symptoms boils down to three foundational steps:
Remove the Mold Source - Eradicating a pathogen is useless without also removing the contributing source(s). It would be like starting a diet without evaluating your digestive health, or considering your health history. Removing sources of mold from your home, your car, the foods you eat, and any other spaces you spend significant amounts of time in, is the very first step to a successful elimination of mold toxins.
Support Detox and Drainage - Your liver plays a big role in the elimination of pathogens like mold toxins. Ensuring your liver is not congested and can effectively deactivate toxins, and that your drainage pathways are clear (bowel movements, sweat, urine, and lungs), is the second step to a successful mold detox.
Eradicate the Pathogens - Once the first two steps have been evaluated and supported, using high-potency botanical or pharmaceutical intervention to kill off the pathogens is the next step to getting rid of your mold toxicity symptoms and finding relief for your autoimmune symptoms.
Important additional factors to consider when treating mold toxicity symptoms include:
accurate testing - Working with a practitioner who is familiar with specialized testing that will help you understand what it is you’re fighting against, will make your treatment more successful. Secondarily, pathogens have ways of hiding, so working with a practitioner who understands how to draw pathogens out of hiding prior to testing, will get you a more accurate test result.
binders - When actively killing off pathogens, binders are essential to removing debris and toxins from the body. There are many types of binders, and each is specific to certain types of pathogens. Working with a practitioner who understands which types of binders are best for the specific pathogens you are dealing with, is essential to a successful treatment.
microbiome rebuild - Kill-off agents, whether pharmaceutical or botanical, kill off EVERYTHING - good and bad. It is especially important to repopulate the “good” bacteria and support healthy microbiome after, and sometimes during, the kill-off process, to ensure a more powerful immune support for future pathogenic infections. Without this step, you may be more susceptible to future infections, and an immune system that struggles to keep up.
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DO YOU HAVE MOLD TOXICITY SYMPTOMS?
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BLOG REFERENCES
Kraft, S., Buchenauer, L., & Polte, T. (2021). Mold, Mycotoxins and a Dysregulated Immune System: A Combination of Concern?. International journal of molecular sciences, 22(22), 12269. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms222212269
Naviaux, R. K. (2013, August 24). Metabolic features of the Cell Danger Response. Mitochondrion. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1567724913002390