CGM Experience with Michelle Dwyer

CGM Experience with Michelle Dwyer

by | Jul 21, 2024 | Blog, Groups and Talks, Health, Hormones, Nutrition, Programs

Ready to join the next 2-Week CGM Experience?

Are you ready for more energy and vitality?

Are you curious to see what is going when you have that afternoon crash or wake up in the middle of the night?

Do you want to know more about how sugar and processed carbs affect your body?

And do you want to get personalized insight about your body while also in a supportive, fun environment led by a health expert?

 

Then Welcome to the CGM 2-Week Experience!

 

The WHAT, Michelle?!!?

 

Did you know that a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) can be one the best ways to get personalized insight on how food is affecting YOUR body and blood sugar?

Blood sugar fluctuations can affect our energy, weight, hormones, sleep, mood and so much more!

A CGM is gently attached to your back arm for two weeks and allows you to see via an app the fluctuations to your blood sugar based on what and when and how much you are eating.

 

Why would I want to wear a CGM, Michelle?

Getting clarity about what is going on in real time with your blood sugar can help you support:

  • Balanced weight
  • Better energy
  • Sleep quality
  • Mental and emotional clarity
  • Stress and lifestyle management
  • Personalized food choices

 

This sounds great! What are all the details?

 

The Dates:

Next group will be with Dr. Cheruba Prabakar, OBGYN

August 11-25, 2024

 

Three 60-minute Group Zoom calls (all will be recorded):

  • Kick-off Call: August 11 at 10 am PT
  • Mid-way Check-in Call: August 18 at 10 am PT
  • Celebrations and Next Steps Call:  August 25 at 10 am PT

 

What you’ll receive:

  • Three 60-minute group zoom calls (before, during and after the “experience”) to help guide you on how to make the most of the two weeks.
  • Private group page/thread to post ahas, insights, questions and receive support, encouragement, and guidance from me (I’m a Holistic Health Coach and Certified Nutrition Consultant) the whole two weeks
  • Michelle’s expertise, encouragement, accountability, support!
  • Community and camaraderie! It’s more fun to do together!

 

Investment: NOTE: There are TWO pieces

#1: The Sensor

Everyone: $125 for the CGM device (for two weeks)—you will order this on your own with a link I’ll provide (you are paying face value to the company—no affiliate or benefit to me—this is just what it costs out of pocket). You are also welcome to order it elsewhere but you do need a CGM. NOTE: You may be able to use your HSA/FSA for the CGM–please check with your provider for details.

If you can get a prescription from your doctor, there is a way to get it for FREE as your first trial or for a discount. 

Ask your doctor for a prescription for the Abbott Freestyle Libre 3 and that you will be paying CASH (not asking for it to be covered by insurance)

 

#2: For the group experience with Michelle as the guide 

$300 Regular rate for the two-week experience together

$100 off if you are a returner

 

Special bonus for new clients only: If you decide you’d like to work with me 1:1 when the CGM Experience is over, you can apply the $425 you invested towards my services!

 

 

What previous clients have shared are the benefits of wearing a CGM:

“I sometimes have a strong urge for a carb or sweet in the late afternoon and was able to see that it often correlated with a drop in blood sugar. Knowing that helped me pick a protein/fiber snack instead of a carb/sweet. It also helped me correlate my frequent afternoon emotional slumps (feeling overwhelmed, sad, distracted, wanting to give up on productivity for the day) with a drop in blood sugar. There is power in knowing that the emotional piece is caused by something physiological.”

 

“My CGM did so much to raise my awareness of how food impacts my body, and it has helped me make wiser decisions about what I eat.”

 

“After consistently wearing a CGM for a couple months and making changes to my eating patterns, I’ve lost the ‘stubborn’ ten pounds in my belly, my energy feels great, and I know I’m making positive changes for my long-term health.”

 

“I realized that not only what I ate but how much and at what time really affected my blood sugar. I’m not sure I realized the impact before seeing it in the app and now I feel motivated to make shifts that have me feeling more sustained energy and sleeping better than before.”

 

 

Who is this NOT for:

X No one pregnant.

X No one under 18.

X No one with diagnosed Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. (Okay if you have been diagnosed with “prediabetes.”)

X No one with active cancer, liver disease, kidney disease or other major illness.

X No one in a current place of an eating disorder.

Please consult with your doctor if you have any questions on whether a CGM is right for you.

 

 

FAQ:

Will it hurt?

No, there is some slight pressure applying the device and maybe a little soreness after but it is mild to nothing.

 

Can I invite a friend or family member?

Yes, please do! It really is more fun to do with a buddy or partner. 

 

What do I need to participate?

You will need to purchase a CGM out of pocket (insurance only covers it if you have diabetes) and you will need to download the free app that comes with a CGM. I will provide a link for an easy place to get a CGM but you are welcome to get it elsewhere. Note: I receive NO MONEY from you ordering a CGM.

 

Want to know more about CGMs? Please go here for more detailed FAQs about the device: https://agelessrx.com/faq/#cgm-sensor

 

 

If you’re interested in joining the next round, the best next step is to EMAIL me at [email protected]!

Nutrition and Food in Perimenopause and Menopause

Nutrition and Food in Perimenopause and Menopause

by | Sep 28, 2023 | Blog, Groups and Talks, Health, Hormones, Nutrition

Nutrition and Food in Perimenopause and Menopause

I know it can be frustrating figuring out what to eat as our body starts shifting hormonally. Although what works for each person varies, there are some basic guidelines that can be a helpful place to start!

 

The basics:

Focus on nutrient-dense REAL foods! Lots of non-starchy vegetables (think eating a RAINBOW!), some whole grains or beans/legumes or fruits, the right amount of lean proteins, and healthy fats.

 

Protein Power

Prioritize lean protein sources at every meal/snack like poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, and tofu.

Protein supports muscle maintenance and helps manage appetite, crucial for weight loss.

 

Fiber for Satiety, Digestive Health and Hormonal Balance

Increase fiber intake through vegetables, seeds, legumes, whole grains, and fruits.

Fiber promotes satiety, aiding in appetite control and digestive health.

 

Mindful Eating

Eat slowly, savor each bite, and pay attention to hunger and fullness cues.

Create a beautiful, inviting space when you eat.

Sounds silly but put your fork down in between bites and really chew your food (I’m still working on this one!)

 

Healthy Fats for Hormonal Health

Incorporate sources of healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil.

These fats are essential for hormone production and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Include sources of omega-3 fatty acids like fatty fish (wild-caught salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds, and walnuts.

 

Limit Sugar and Processed Foods

Minimize added sugars and processed foods, which can disrupt blood sugar levels and contribute to weight gain.

Regulating your blood sugar is probably one of THE MOST IMPORTANT things you can do to support healthy weight in perimenopause and menopause

 

Meal Planning and Portions

Plan balanced meals so that it is EASY and enjoyable to eat well

Aim for about half or more of your plate as vegetables, palm-size of protein, small amount of starches and 1-2 T. of healthy fats per meal

 

Individualized Approach

As always, each body is different so it’s important to listen to what YOUR body is telling you!

Need more guidance?: Book a complimentary Discovery Session today to see if working together will help you with your health and wellness goals!

 

Ready to learn more?

Join me for Menopause Awareness Day on October 18, 2023 for a free panel with the Menopause Mastermind!

Register here for FREE for the World Menopause Day panel!
My 10 Personal Practices for Self-Care in Challenging Times

My 10 Personal Practices for Self-Care in Challenging Times

by | Mar 27, 2020 | Blog, Health, Mind-Body-Spirit Connection, Movement and body, Nutrition

In the midst of so much uncertainty and daily changes to our reality, I’ve been thinking about what I wanted to share with you that might be helpful. I don’t know about you, but I’ve felt almost bombarded the last few weeks with so much information, ideas, tips, resources, and suggestions. Some I have felt truly helpful and grounding. I wanted to share a few of my personal commitments and take-aways that I am doing my best each day to truly PRACTICE . . . with grace, kindness, and compassion. Perhaps you might find them helpful, too.

The Simple Practices (or scroll below for more details):

  1. Eat to NOURISH your body
  2. Stay hydrated
  3. Honor your need for sleep and rest
  4. Move your body every day
  5. Practice mindfulness
  6. Be in nature
  7. Express gratitude and appreciation
  8. Affirm the importance of creativity, play, humor, and love
  9. Welcome opportunities for empathy, compassion, kindness, radical acceptance, and receiving/giving support
  10. Create healthy boundaries through discernment

The Practices in More Detail:

Eat to NOURISH your body: Foods that support your immune system include colorful, fresh vegetables and fruits, quality protein, and healthy fats. Adding spices and fresh herbs can also be beneficial (think onion, garlic, fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, and spices like turmeric). Fermented foods like raw apple cider vinegar, raw fermented vegetables, and kimchi may also be beneficial–a happy belly supports a strong immune system. Be mindful of sugar and processed foods as these can deplete your immune strength. If you are feeling “phlegmy” I also suggest taking dairy out for a while since it is quite mucous-producing. Most importantly, if you do find yourself stress-eating, be kind to yourself and reach out for support.

Stay hydrated: This one may seem obvious but I added it to my personal list when I noticed early last week that I was not drinking enough water. I think I got thrown off my routine. So now I’m making a conscious effort to drink plenty of water and herbal tea throughout the day. A cup of nourishing broth works too! I try to use a colorful cup for my water so that it catches my eye and I’m reminded to drink. Adding a little lemon or lime to water can also make it more enticing to drink (plus a little vitamin C!). Herbal teas like ginger, licorice, and mint would be beneficial too.

Honor your need for sleep and rest: You might be finding that as we adjust to our new routines and ways of working that you have more energy fluctuations. Be gentle with yourself in this time and rest when you need to rest. It’s okay to need a break. I also encourage you to keep to your regular sleep times as sleep and rest are also an important part of supporting our immune system. If you can sleep in a little now that you don’t have to commute, do so! But still go to bed at your regular hour to keep consistency there.

Move your body every day: There are absolutely no shoulds on exactly how to move your body every day. Have a dance party, join a streaming fitness class, create your own home workout, walk your neighborhood, go up and down the stairs in your home, do some stretches. Just move!! Many of us are sitting way more than we usually would, so you might need to be more conscious about body your body daily. Beyond my daily walks and fitness routine, I have also found it helpful to take mini-breaks through the day to stretch, grab a cup of tea, sit in a different location or sit in a different way (like on the floor instead of at my desk).

Practice mindfulness: Again, there are a myriad of ways to do this including meditation, yoga, taking a hot bath, reading a comforting spiritual book, taking 5 deep breaths throughout the day, using essential oils for aromatherapy, coloring, knitting/crocheting, walking, gardening. New to meditation and want to give it a try, Deepka Chopra and Oprah are offering for free their 21-Day Meditation Series “Finding hope in uncertain times.”

Be in nature: If you feel comfortable doing so, get out into nature every day. Find nature in small places like your neighborhood (the flowers are glorious here in Oakland right now!), your backyard, your patio. Plant and grow something, if you can. Garden. Get your hands in dirt. Watch the sun rise or set. Look at the stars. Connecting with nature on a daily basis is one of the most important things we can do right now.

Express gratitude and appreciation: My husband and I have made it a daily practice to share each day: one “win” from the day, one challenge, one gratitude, and one appreciation to the other person. It’s become a lovely ritual, one I hope to continue. Gratitude is key right now. Even on the most challenging days, we can find something to be grateful for. Some days it might be something big like, “I’m so grateful for the health of my body” and other days it might be simple like, “I’m grateful for running hot and cold water.” Even in the midst of great unknowns, we can practice expressing our gratitude. Appreciation is slightly different in that it is the recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something. If you’re co-housing and co-working suddenly with a lot of people, a little appreciation can go a long way: “I appreciate that you gave me space to do my video meeting today” or “I appreciate how you cleaned up our morning dishes today.” If you live alone this appreciation might extend to a friend, family member or neighbor: “I appreciate you checking in on me.”

Affirm the importance of creativity and humor and love: Even in the midst of great challenge and difficulty, there are opportunities for laughter, joy, and pleasure. Take these moments and cherish them. I truly believe this time is calling on us to get creative. This may look like actually creating some piece of art like music, painting, knitting, writing, cooking, etc. Or it can be about having a creative mindset and getting innovative with solutions. And humor is also so important right now. Not only does it feel good to laugh but it can also boost our immune system! Lastly, and most importantly, these times are calling on us to CHOOSE LOVE. This might be love for our families and loved ones but also radical self-love. Love is the antidote to fear.

Welcome opportunities for empathy, compassion, kindness, radical acceptance, and receiving/giving support: I know I’m not alone in appreciating the myriad of stories out there of someone expressing kindness to strangers in these difficult times. I believe that what we give our attention to expands, so I am choosing to focus on places where I can be compassionate to myself and others. We are all handling this major event in different ways and I know I handle it differently depending on the day, the hour, the minute. That is all ok. Radical acceptance is about fully being with what is happening right now. It doesn’t mean you have to like it, but you stop resisting or denying it or wishing for a different outcome. Letting go of expectations or the sense that we can control things can be challenging, but it is good work to practice right now. Lastly, if you are in a place to give support right now, please do so: donate to a favorite non-profit, buy gift certificates to your local businesses who are closed right now, call a friend or neighbor to check on them. And if you need support right now, practice receiving kindness and generosity.

Create healthy boundaries through discernment: Right now we are all being asked to create a physical boundary for the well-being of our society, but remember to also create healthy boundaries mentally, psychically, and spiritually. This might mean being careful about how much news you watch (or when you watch it), being mindful about time spent on social media, choosing thoughtfully what shows you are watching, or even being more conscious of your own thoughts and where you place your attention and intention. Discernment is about consciously deciding what you bring into your world . . . whether that’s food, people, information, or your own thoughts. I find this to be very empowering.

Like all of you, I’m taking my life day by day right now. What this time of sheltering at home amidst a global pandemic seems to be highlighting for me are my daily practices of self-care so that I can show up for the world feeling as healthy, strong, energetic, clear, and grounded as possible. I hope you have found some of these to be helpful, too.

I would love to hear from you in the comments below: What daily practices are working for you and your household?