Why Breakfast Really Is The Most Important Meal Of The Day
Remember when you were a kid, and everyone was on your case about breakfast being the most important meal of the day? Turns out, they were onto something! Fast forward to today, and science backs it up: eating breakfast sets your hormones straight and, believe it or not, even helps with weight management. So, if you’ve been skipping breakfast, consider this your wake-up call. Here’s why starting your day with breakfast is more than just a childhood rule; it’s a health hack that’ll keep your hormones happy and help you lose weight naturally. Breakfast and Hormones: Why Timing Matters Your body’s natural hormonal rhythm is a lot like a finely tuned orchestra, and breakfast is the conductor. If you skip breakfast, you’re messing with that rhythm—especially with cortisol and leptin, two major players in hunger and energy balance. Cortisol: Cortisol, the hormone that wakes you up, is naturally higher in the morning. Think of it as nature’s alarm clock, helping you get up and moving. But when you don’t eat within a couple of hours of waking, cortisol stays elevated, which can make you feel stressed, scattered, and actually make your body hold onto fat. Leptin: This is the hormone that tells your brain, “Hey, I’m full!” When you skip breakfast, your leptin levels can take a hit. Result? Your hunger cues are all off, and your brain keeps craving food throughout the day. Skipping breakfast throws off both these hormones and sets up a cascade of issues like energy crashes, increased cravings, and even trouble losing weight. So if you’re serious about feeling energized and in control of your cravings, start with breakfast within two hours of waking. Breakfast as Your Weight-Loss Ally Wait—eating more can help you lose weight? Absolutely! When you eat breakfast, you’re signaling to your body that it can start burning energy because there’s more fuel on the way. Skipping breakfast, on the other hand, makes your body feel like it’s in survival mode. Instead of burning calories, it slows your metabolism to conserve energy, which can lead to weight gain over time. Here’s where breakfast’s magic really shines Studies show that people who regularly eat breakfast are more likely to manage their weight effectively. By starting your day with food, you’re giving your body the message that it’s okay to burn energy rather than store it. Not Hungry in the Morning? Try a Protein Shake! If the thought of eggs or oatmeal sounds like a chore first thing, don’t worry—protein shakes are a fantastic option. But there’s a catch: not all protein shakes are created equal. To truly act as a meal replacement, your shake needs to be more than just a scoop of protein powder. Look for a shake that has: Vitamins: Breakfast is your first chance to give your body the nutrients it needs. Choose a shake with vitamins like B12, vitamin D, and magnesium to help with energy and focus. Minerals: Calcium, potassium, and iron aren’t just nice extras—they’re essentials. A shake with these nutrients supports muscle function and energy levels. Amino Acids: Protein shakes with amino acids are a win. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, helping your body repair and grow muscle tissue while keeping you feeling full and satisfied. The Breakfast Habit: Start Small, Feel Big Changes If breakfast feels like a struggle, don’t force yourself to dive into a huge meal. Start small—a piece of fruit or half a protein shake can do wonders. Once you start eating earlier in the day, you’ll likely find yourself feeling more energized, less snacky, and, yes, even more in control of your weight. Beyond Breakfast: Your Health Journey with Solaris Whole Health Breakfast is just the tip of the iceberg! At Solaris Whole Health, we look beyond quick fixes and tap into functional wellness through targeted testing, supplements, and lifestyle adjustments. Our goal is to help you reach optimal health, feel your best, and create a lifestyle you love—without all the yo-yo back and forth. If you’re ready to explore a personalized approach to wellness, let’s chat! [Click here] to schedule your FREE online or phone consultation with Stephanie Solaris, and discover how Solaris Whole Health can support you on your journey to feeling amazing and living your best life!
The Root Cause Revolution: A New Approach to Everyday Health
I’m Stephanie Solaris, owner of Solaris Whole Health and creator of the BRAND NEW Root Cause Revolution. As a seasoned functional wellness professional with 15 years of transformative guidance, I’ve empowered over 5,000 clients worldwide, including 90 pro and semi-athletes. ? My expertise spans menopause, stress, fatigue, weight management, hormone balance, sleep harmony, gut health, allergies, and even libido. 25 years ago, I embarked on a personal transformation that forever changed my life. I lost 100 pounds and, even through menopause, I’ve maintained that weight loss and continue to feel fantastic. The best part? I wasn’t just following conventional methods—I was my very first client! I grew weary of the yo-yo dieting, constant hunger, and persistent health symptoms that never seemed to improve. This frustration inspired me to create The Root Cause Revolution, a movement designed to address the underlying causes of health issues rather than merely masking symptoms. Unlike traditional healthcare, which often focuses on quick fixes, the Root Cause Revolution delves deep to find and address the root of the problem. Through advanced testing, personalized nutrition, supplements, lifestyle changes, and mindset shifts, we tackle the core issues to achieve lasting, sustainable health. The Power of Functional Wellness Many people don’t realize that the symptoms they experience—such as chronic fatigue, digestive issues, brain fog, or weight gain—often stem from deeper imbalances in their lifestyle and health. Functional wellness addresses these imbalances by considering the whole person and identifying the root cause of their issues. Unlike traditional methods that often only treat symptoms with medication, functional wellness seeks to find and fix the underlying problem. Have you ever experienced cravings that you just couldn’t shake? I certainly have! Giving in to those cravings didn’t help my health or waistline, so I developed the concept of Better Bad Choices. What Are Better Bad Choices? Instead of battling your cravings, honor them by making smarter choices. This approach, which I call “crowding out,” involves substituting healthier alternatives for your cravings. If you’re craving something sweet, opt for a nutrient-rich treat that satisfies your craving without derailing your progress. Swap out a greasy burger for a juicy turkey burger, or choose air-popped popcorn over buttery movie theater popcorn. By making these “Better Bad Choices,” you can enjoy your favorite flavors while still staying on track with your health goals. The 30-Day Cravings Challenge I’m thrilled to introduce the FREE 30-Day Cravings Challenge as part of the Root Cause Revolution! During this challenge, we’ll confront cravings, reset your diet, and learn to make Better Bad Choices—tasty, healthier swaps that keep you on track without sacrificing satisfaction. We’ll embark on this journey together, and by the end of the challenge, you’ll feel great, lose weight, and address symptoms like bloating, fatigue, and brain fog. Our approach also incorporates the 4 Pillars of Health: nutrition, exercise, stress management, and sleep. By focusing on these key areas, we ensure a comprehensive approach to wellness that supports long-term success and vitality. By making small, manageable changes—one choice at a time, one bite at a time—you can progress toward your wellness goals without feeling deprived. Through the Root Cause Revolution, we’ll achieve your health goals with a balanced, holistic approach that’s tailored to your needs. Join me on Facebook, Instagram, and now TikTok, where each week I’ll be posting great videos that I know you’ll be able to relate to! Let’s kick those symptoms to the curb—let’s eat better, live better, and feel better so you can live the life you desire. Click here to learn more about Solaris Whole Health and to schedule your FREE consultation directly with me, Stephanie Solaris.
8 Hormones Responsible for Weight Gain in Women
Hormones play a huge role in how our bodies function and look. If you’ve been struggling with sudden weight gain or find it difficult to shed those extra pounds, it might not just be about your diet or exercise routine—your hormones could be at play. Hormonal imbalances can make it hard to lose weight, even with the best efforts. So, getting your hormone levels checked could be the key to finally seeing the results you want. Hormones help maintain homeostasis, which is the body’s way of keeping everything in balance. This balance is crucial for managing weight, regulating metabolism, and maintaining reproductive health. Most women experience hormonal imbalances at some point due to factors like age, genetics, pregnancy, and menopause—all of which can lead to weight gain. But which hormones are the main culprits? Let’s dive into the key hormones linked to weight gain and how they control hunger, satiety, and metabolism. Which Hormone Imbalances Lead to Weight Gain? Weight gain can be frustrating, especially when it feels like you’re doing everything right. But did you know that your hormones might be to blame? Let’s break down the key hormones that, when out of whack, can cause those extra pounds to stick around. 1. Thyroid Hormones The thyroid gland is that small, butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck, and it plays a big role in how your body’s metabolism works. Thyroid hormones—mainly T3 and T4—help regulate how quickly you burn calories and use energy. When everything’s working fine, your metabolism hums along at a normal pace. But if your thyroid isn’t producing enough of these hormones (a condition known as hypothyroidism), your metabolism can slow down, leading to weight gain and fatigue. Signs your thyroid might be off: If you’re dealing with unexplained weight gain, fatigue, feeling cold all the time, constipation, dry skin, thinning hair, or depression, your thyroid could be the culprit. How to manage it: A simple blood test can check your thyroid levels. If needed, thyroid hormone replacement therapy, diet adjustments, and regular exercise can help get things back on track. 2. Leptin Leptin is sometimes called the “satiety hormone” because it helps control your appetite. It’s produced by your body’s fat cells and sends signals to your brain to let you know when you’ve had enough to eat. But if your brain doesn’t get the message (a condition known as leptin resistance), you might end up feeling hungry all the time, leading to overeating and weight gain. Signs your leptin might be out of balance: Constant hunger, overeating, difficulty losing weight, especially around the belly, and fatigue are common signs of leptin resistance. How to manage it: Focus on a diet full of whole foods, reduce processed foods and sugar, and keep up a regular exercise routine. Stress management is also key since stress can mess with leptin sensitivity. 3. Insulin Insulin is produced by the pancreas and helps regulate your blood sugar levels. It allows your cells to take in glucose (sugar) from your bloodstream to use for energy or to store for later. But when your body doesn’t respond well to insulin (known as insulin resistance), your blood sugar stays high, which encourages fat storage—especially around your midsection. Signs your insulin might be off: If you’re feeling constantly hungry, gaining weight (especially around your abdomen), experiencing frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, or noticing dark patches of skin, insulin resistance could be the issue. How to manage it: Lower your sugar and refined carb intake, increase your fiber intake, and get regular exercise. These changes can help improve your insulin sensitivity, and in some cases, medication might be necessary. 4. Ghrelin Ghrelin, also known as the “hunger hormone,” is produced mainly in your stomach and signals your brain when it’s time to eat. Ghrelin levels naturally rise before meals and drop after eating. But if your ghrelin levels stay high even after eating, you might find yourself constantly hungry, leading to overeating and weight gain. Signs your ghrelin might be out of balance: If you’re always hungry, overeating, and finding it tough to lose weight, your ghrelin levels might be to blame. How to manage it: Maintain regular eating patterns, manage stress, get enough sleep, and avoid crash diets, which can disrupt ghrelin production. 5. Estrogen Estrogen is a key female hormone involved in reproductive health, bone health, and even fat distribution. High estrogen levels can cause your body to store more fat, while low levels—especially during menopause—can lead to increased fat storage, particularly around the abdomen. Signs your estrogen might be out of balance: High estrogen can cause weight gain in the hips and thighs, bloating, irregular periods, and mood swings. Low estrogen, on the other hand, can lead to abdominal weight gain, hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes. How to manage it: Hormone replacement therapy can help during menopause, along with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Foods rich in phytoestrogens, like flaxseeds and soy, can also help balance estrogen levels naturally. 6. Cortisol Cortisol is often called the “stress hormone” because it’s released by your adrenal glands in response to stress. It helps regulate metabolism, immune responses, and inflammation. But if you’re stressed out all the time, your cortisol levels can stay elevated, which promotes fat storage, especially around your belly. High cortisol levels also increase cravings for sugary and fatty foods, making it even harder to keep weight off. Signs your cortisol might be off: Weight gain (especially around the abdomen), thinning skin, muscle weakness, high blood pressure, anxiety, irritability, and trouble sleeping are all signs of high cortisol. How to manage it: Try stress reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises. Regular physical activity, good sleep, and a balanced diet low in sugar can also help keep cortisol levels in check. 7. Testosterone Testosterone isn’t just important for men—it’s also produced
Hormone Health: The Importance of Addressing Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances, increasingly recognized in both women and men, can have significant impacts on health. While these imbalances may not always be immediately visible, they can lead to a range of serious issues if left untreated. Understanding the role of hormones and the risks of ignoring imbalances is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. Understanding Hormones Hormones are chemical messengers produced by the endocrine system that regulate numerous bodily functions, including metabolism, sleep, appetite, mood, stress levels, reproductive health, and heart rate. When hormone levels are out of balance, they can disrupt these essential processes, leading to various symptoms. What Is Hormonal Imbalance? Hormonal imbalances occur when there is either an excess or deficiency of specific hormones. Symptoms can include: Weight Issues: Unexplained weight gain or loss. Sleep Problems: Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns. Headaches: Frequent or severe headaches and migraines. Digestive Issues: Bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or other gut problems. Persistent Fatigue: Feeling tired all the time, despite adequate rest. Cognitive Issues: Foggy memory or difficulty concentrating. Emotional Symptoms: Mood swings, irritability, or anxiety. These symptoms are often overlooked or misattributed to other causes, which can delay necessary treatment. Hormonal Imbalances Throughout Life Hormonal imbalances can affect individuals differently at various life stages: In Your 20s: Young adults may experience imbalances due to stress, poor diet, or conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women, with symptoms like irregular periods, acne, and mood swings. Men may notice fluctuations in energy levels or libido. In Your 30s: Stress and lifestyle factors can impact hormonal balance. Women might experience worsening PMS or early signs of perimenopause, while men may see a gradual decline in testosterone levels, affecting mood and energy. In Your 40s: Women often enter perimenopause, experiencing irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep disturbances. Men may face a more pronounced decline in testosterone, leading to reduced libido, fatigue, and decreased muscle strength. In Your 50s and 60s: Women typically experience menopause, with symptoms including severe hot flashes, weight gain, and increased risk of osteoporosis. Men may continue to deal with low testosterone levels, impacting overall health. Both genders face heightened risks of chronic conditions related to hormonal imbalances. The Risks of Untreated Hormonal Imbalances Untreated hormonal imbalances can indicate serious underlying health issues, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or tumors. For women, imbalances might signal ovarian cancer or early menopause, while men could face prostate cancer or other health concerns. Addressing these imbalances promptly is crucial to preventing more severe health problems. How Solaris Whole Health Can Help At Solaris Whole Health, we offer a unique and comprehensive approach to addressing hormonal imbalances. What sets us apart is our collaborative approach with your current healthcare providers. By integrating our expertise with your existing medical care, we ensure a cohesive strategy that addresses your overall health, lifestyle, and symptoms. Our holistic approach is designed to restore balance and help you return to being the best version of yourself. Contact us today by clicking here to learn more about how our personalized care can support your journey to optimal health and vitality.
How to Manage Weight Gain After Your 30s: Simple Tips for a Healthier You
As soon as you hit your 30s, your body starts to undergo some pretty noticeable changes. You may have already experienced it—clothes fitting a little tighter, energy levels dipping, and even weight gain that sneaks up out of nowhere. This isn’t just in your head. It’s happening because your body composition is shifting: lean muscle mass decreases while fat tends to increase. Add in a busy, stressful lifestyle that leaves less time for physical activity, and it’s no wonder the pounds start to creep on. Why Lean Muscle Mass is Key One of the biggest culprits for weight gain as you age is the loss of muscle mass. After age 30, lean muscle mass naturally declines by about 3 to 8 percent per decade—a process known as sarcopenia. Muscle plays a major role in your metabolism, burning more calories than fat does. So, as muscle mass decreases, your body needs fewer calories to function, making it easier to gain weight even if your diet stays the same. This decrease in muscle can negatively affect your metabolism, strength, and even your balance. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about staying strong and functional as you age. Hormone Imbalances As you enter your 30s and beyond, hormonal imbalances can play a significant role in making weight loss more challenging. Hormones like estrogen, testosterone, and insulin regulate key processes like metabolism, fat storage, and appetite. When these hormones become imbalanced due to age, stress, or lifestyle factors, it can lead to increased fat accumulation, especially around the abdomen, and make it harder to shed those extra pounds. For instance, lower levels of estrogen in women can lead to a slower metabolism and increased cravings, while declining testosterone in men can reduce muscle mass, which is essential for burning calories effectively. Beyond just slowing down your metabolism, hormonal imbalances can also lead to symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, and poor sleep—all of which can further sabotage your weight loss efforts. When your body is constantly battling these issues, it becomes harder to maintain the energy and focus needed for regular exercise and healthy eating habits. That’s why understanding and addressing hormone balance is key to successfully losing weight and maintaining a healthy body as you age. What You Can Do It’s not all doom and gloom, though. There are several practical steps you can take to help slow down weight gain and improve your overall health as you age. Here’s 5 Simple steps you can start taking today: Eat More Whole Foods: Opt for whole grains, fruits, vegetables like broccoli and citrus fruits, and even spicy foods like hot peppers. These are nutrient-dense and help keep you full while boosting your metabolism. Drink Green Tea: This natural antioxidant can help enhance fat burning and boost your metabolism. Cook More at Home: Preparing meals at home allows you to control portion sizes and ingredients, reducing the intake of highly processed foods. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps you stay energized and prevents overeating due to dehydration. Practice Mindful Eating: Pay attention to what you’re eating. Avoid distractions like TV or phones, and focus on your food to prevent overeating and poor choices. Portion Control is Crucial As your metabolism slows, managing your portion sizes becomes more important. Downsizing your portions while focusing on nutrient-rich foods can help manage weight without feeling deprived. How Solaris Whole Health Can Help You Reclaim Your Health Struggling with weight gain in your 30s and beyond often comes down to hormone imbalances and lifestyle shifts. That’s where I come in! At Solaris Whole Health, I use a functional wellness approach to get to the root of your weight gain, testing for hormonal imbalances and other underlying issues that traditional doctors might overlook. I also incorporate my 4 Pillars of Stress and my 4 Pillars of Health Formula to help you regain your vitality and energy, and finally shed those stubborn pounds. Ready to reclaim your vitality, energy and finally lose those unwanted pounds- and keep them off? Then click here to schedule your FREE call with me today! Let’s get you back on track to optimal health and happiness so you can live the life you desire. While you’re here check out the Best Foods & Drinks To End Your Day With.
The Hidden Toll: How Career & Finance Stress Impacts Your Health
In our fast-paced world, stress related to career and finances often goes unnoticed until it manifests in more serious health issues. This type of stress isn’t just about meeting deadlines or paying bills; it’s a significant factor affecting our overall well-being. Let’s dive into how financial and career stress can lead to chronic illnesses, disrupt sleep, encourage unhealthy coping mechanisms, and what you can do to manage these challenges. Chronic Illnesses: The Long-Term Effects of Financial Stress Ongoing financial stress doesn’t just weigh on your mind; it has tangible, long-term effects on your body. The constant worry about money can lead to a cascade of physical symptoms and chronic illnesses. Increased stress levels can cause high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and muscle tension. These symptoms are not just uncomfortable; they can escalate to more severe health issues. For instance, chronic stress is a known risk factor for heart disease and can even increase the likelihood of a heart attack. The body responds to stress by releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which, when persistently elevated, can damage the cardiovascular system over time. The Critical Role of Sleep Sleep is often the first casualty when financial worries become overwhelming. Yet, it’s one of the most crucial aspects of maintaining both physical and mental health. Adequate sleep supports the immune system, aids in recovery from illness or injury, and helps protect against various diseases. The “all-consuming” nature of financial stress can lead to disrupted sleep, poor sleep quality, or even insomnia. It’s a vicious cycle: lack of sleep increases stress levels, and heightened stress makes it even harder to sleep. Researchers have equated the importance of sleep to other basic necessities like food, water, air, and shelter. Without it, your body and mind struggle to function at their best. Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms When the pressure of financial stress becomes too much, some people may turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms. These can include heavy drinking, unhealthy eating habits, drug use, or even gambling. While these actions might offer temporary relief, they often exacerbate the problem. For example, poor eating habits can lead to weight gain and related health issues like diabetes or heart disease. Similarly, heavy drinking due to stress can lead to addiction and further financial strain, creating a dangerous cycle that’s hard to break. The Interconnected Pillars of Health At Solaris Whole Health, we understand that career and financial stress don’t exist in a vacuum. They are part of a broader picture that includes physical health, mental health, and relationships. If this fourth Pillar of Health—Career & Finance—falters, it can destabilize the entire system, much like a wobbly leg can tip over a table. The four pillars of stress we focus on—Physical, Mental/Emotional, Chemical, and Environmental—are all interlinked. These 4 pillars of stress are a result of imbalances within the 4 Pillars of Health. When one pillar is compromised, it affects the stability and balance of the others. How Solaris Whole Health Can Help Our approach at Solaris Whole Health is functional wellness. We don’t just address the symptoms; we look at the root causes. Whether you’re dealing with the physical manifestations of stress, struggling with sleep, or finding yourself in a cycle of unhealthy habits, Stephanie Solaris is there to help. Our 12-month Transformation Program is designed to guide you through each of these challenges, providing tools and strategies to manage stress, improve sleep, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. By focusing on all four pillars of health, we help you build a strong, stable foundation for long-term well-being. If you find yourself struggling with career and financial stress, remember you’re not alone. Take our FREE Stress Less Sleep More Quiz to find out what your stress and sleep habits say about you, discover your “Stress & Sleep Doppelgänger,” and get personalized tips to improve your well-being. For a more in-depth look at how your relationships and financial stress may be affecting your health, schedule your FREE 30-minute consultation directly with me, Stephanie Solaris, today. Let’s work together to create a balanced, healthier you!
Want more Joy in your life? 3 Steps To Happiness You Can Do TODAY!
In the hustle and bustle of adult life, it’s easy to forget the carefree joy of our childhoods. The responsibilities of work, family, and everyday stress can cloud our sense of self. At Solaris Whole Health, we believe that reconnecting with the things that brought you joy as a child is essential for achieving holistic well-being. By remembering who you were as a child and rediscovering your passions, you can find inner peace and a renewed sense of purpose. Step 1: The Importance of Childhood Passions Take a moment to reflect on your childhood. What did you love to do? Maybe you enjoyed skateboarding, exploring the woods, journaling, or drawing for hours on end. These activities were more than just fun—they were expressions of your true self. They brought feelings of adventure, creativity, and freedom. Remembering these childhood activities can evoke powerful emotions. For example, if exploring the woods made you feel adventurous and free, returning to nature can help you reconnect with those feelings. These activities are not just hobbies; they are pathways to your core identity and sources of inner peace. Brainstorm a list of these activites on a napkin, on your phone, anywhere, and remember the joy and freedom you once felt. Step 2: Create a Playdate with yourself As we grow older, the demands of life can make it hard to find time for ourselves. Jobs, family obligations, and social commitments often take precedence. We might even feel guilty about taking time for ourselves, thinking it’s selfish or unproductive. However, neglecting that part of ourselves that brings us joy can lead to increased stress, strained relationships, and a decline in both physical and mental health. When we don’t prioritize our well-being, everything else in our lives can suffer. Plan time during the upcoming week to do something you loved doing as a child; hide a yo-yo in your desk and bring out on the daily, or skateboard after work, sit outside and draw, sit by a stream, sign up for a tennis lesson, shoot some hoops. Anything your heart desires, or rather what the inner child in you desires. Step 3: Just show up We’ve all done it: we make a plan, set aside time, and then fail to follow through because our to-do list is overwhelming, something seemingly more important demands our attention, or we’re simply too exhausted. We are the best at not keeping dates with ourselves in lieu of ‘getting more done’ or just vegging out. The hardest part is showing up. I tell my clients – just show up. That’s it! When you’ve done that you’ve won. You can leave. REALLY, don’t sweat it. Leave. You can do that for the first 1-2 weeks and eventually you may stay and follow through. For example, for the first couple weeks, with no expectations or judgment, just get changed into your workout clothes. Go to the park and stay parked. Get the skateboard or basketball out in the garage. That’s it- that’s all I want you to do. Put on the yoga video and turn it right back off. You’re good! Just show up for your personal playdate at the time you promised. That’s your only goal. Let the rest take its course. Falling off the Wagon Don’t fret. You will, and there’s a reason why, and a system to get you back on track! The Impact of Stress on Your Health: Facts Stress affects a significant portion of the workforce. According to studies, 83% of U.S. workers suffer from work-related stress, with 25% saying their job is their number one stressor (The American Institute of Stress). Furthermore, 94% of workers report feeling stress at work, indicating that stress is a widespread issue across various industries (Cross River Therapy). This stress can manifest in various forms- from burnout, to physical and mental health issues. Physically, chronic stress can manifest in a variety of symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, chest pain, fatigue, and a weakened immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses. Over time, these symptoms can worsen, leading to more serious health issues like hypertension, heart disease, and digestive problems. In some surveys, nearly three in five employees reported negative impacts of work-related stress, leading to lack of interest, motivation, or energy at work (The American Institute of Stress). Stress can also affect relationships with family, friends, or coworkers, with 73% of workers reporting that workplace stress impacts their personal relationships (Cross River Therapy). Stress levels can increase as people age as well, due to various factors such as work, home responsibilities, and relationships. Studies suggest that stressors related to work, like job demands, deadlines, and work culture, can increase with age leading to burnout and reduced professional efficacy. Other stressors include job insecurity, lack of support, and workload (The American Institute of Stress). Home stress can also increase with age, often due to growing family responsibilities and home-work conflict. This is especially true in remote work settings where work-life boundaries can become blurred (MDPI). Relationships can add to stress as individuals balance personal and professional commitments. As people age, they may also experience stress due to evolving family dynamics, caregiving responsibilities, or personal relationships (PLOS). These factors can combine to create a cumulative stress effect, impacting physical and mental well-being. The pressures of modern life can cause chronic stress, affecting your mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. Understanding the sources of stress and adopting effective stress management strategies can help mitigate the negative impacts (World Health Organization (WHO)). “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.” Reconnecting with your true self and taking the time to do so during the week will reduce stress, improve your relationships, enhance your job performance, and boost your overall health- ultimately helping you lead a more fulfilling and authentic life. The Solaris Transformation Cycle: Pulls it All together At Solaris Whole Health, our Transformation
Whole Health and the Skinny Shot Boom – Buyer Beware
In recent years, skinny shots have taken the weight loss world by storm. These injections promise quick and effective weight loss, but what exactly are they? What Are Skinny Shots? Skinny shots come in various forms, including semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic, Wegovy and ZepBound), Lipotropic Injections, B12 Injections, and HCG Injections. Each type has its unique properties and benefits, but they all share a common goal: aiding in weight loss by suppressing appetite and boosting metabolism. Types of Skinny Shots Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, ZepBound): These GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking a hormone (glucagon-like-peptide-1) that helps the body use food as energy, regulates blood sugar levels, and targets the brain’s appetite regulation areas, making you feel fuller longer. Lipotropic Injections: These contain a mix of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that promote short term fat breakdown and metabolism. B12 Injections: These shots boost short term, 1-3 day, energy levels and metabolism, which can support short term weight loss efforts by improving energy so you can do more. HCG Injections: Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) injections claim to help lose fat while preserving muscle mass. Pros and Cons of Skinny Shots Pros Appetite Suppression: Many of these injections help reduce hunger, making it easier to stick to a calorie deficit. Metabolic Boost: Some shots, like Lipotropic and B12, enhance metabolism, helping your body burn more calories. Energy Levels: B12 injections can increase energy, which might improve exercise performance and overall activity levels. Cons Side Effects: These can include nausea, diarrhea, headaches, constipation, heartburn and potential allergic reactions. Appetite Suppression: reducing hunger does not necessarily mean reducing cravings for unhealthy foods. It simply means you get full faster. That said, you may still crave cookies, chips or wine, just have less of it. Decreasing its effectiveness for fat loss and increasing the effects of muscle loss (becoming a fat – skinny person). Temporary Solution: Skinny shots don’t address underlying health issues or promote sustainable lifestyle changes. Risk of Buying Online: Purchasing injections online or using generic versions can be dangerous due to the lack of regulation and potential for contamination. Dependency: Relying on injections without making lifestyle changes can lead to weight regain once the injections are stopped. The Importance of Professional Guidance Using skinny shots without the guidance of a professional weight loss expert can be risky and ineffective in the long term. Here’s why: Side Effects and Risks Skinny shots can have several side effects. Semaglutide, for example, may cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, heartburn, and even pancreatitis in severe cases. Lipotropic injections can lead to allergic reactions, and HCG injections have been associated with a variety of health risks, including ovarian hyperstimulation in women. The dangers of buying these injections online are even greater. Without regulation, you could be purchasing contaminated or improperly dosed products, leading to serious health issues. The Illusion of a Magic Fix While skinny shots can help you lose weight by slowing gastric flow and making you feel fuller, they are not a magic fix. We’ve all experienced the cycle: lose weight, get down 20 pounds, and still struggle with cravings, poor sleep, stress and other symptoms. Without addressing these underlying issues, weight loss is rarely sustainable. Feeling full doesn’t eliminate cravings, improve sleep, or resolve other health issues like hot flashes. You might still find yourself reaching for potato chips, drinking multiple cups of coffee, or craving that glass of wine or three at night. The drug does its job, but if your lifestyle choices don’t change, the weight loss won’t be permanent, and you could gain it all back—or even more. Doing It Right: The Whole Health Approach To achieve lasting results, it’s essential to prep, get tested, and make necessary lifestyle adjustments before taking the shot. This means: Comprehensive Health Testing: Understanding your body’s specific needs and any underlying health issues. Healthy Diet and Nutrition: Adopting a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support overall health and weight loss. Lifestyle Changes: Reducing stress, improving sleep quality, and eliminating unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking. Stress Management: Incorporating techniques to manage stress effectively, as chronic stress can hinder weight loss efforts. Sleep Quality: Ensuring adequate and restful sleep to support metabolism and overall health. Take my FREE Stress Less Sleep More Quiz to learn what do your stress and sleep habits say about you? Regular Exercise: Incorporating physical activity to boost metabolism and maintain muscle mass. How Solaris Whole Health Can Help At Solaris Whole Health, we support you every step of the way. Our Solaris Personal Transformation program, available in 6 or 12-month options, is designed specifically to meet your health goals before, during, and after you start your skinny shots. Work 1-on-1 with Stephanie Solaris and her team to address and improve areas such as stress management, hormone imbalances, chronic illness, digestion, fatigue, allergies, weight gain, and menopause. We collaborate with your doctor to ensure a holistic approach to your weight loss journey. Our program includes: Preparation: Thorough health assessments and personalized plans before you start taking skinny shots. Ongoing Support: Regular check-ins and adjustments to your plan as needed. Sustainable Health: Focusing on whole health to ensure you not only lose weight but also maintain it and improve your overall well-being. Solaris Whole Health programs are science-based lifestyle and nutrition plans, designed specifically for you to achieve ultimate success. You can’t lose weight if you don’t feel great. By addressing all aspects of your health, we help you achieve real, lasting results. Trust Solaris Whole Health to guide you through your weight loss journey with a comprehensive, balanced approach. Solaris Whole Health is dedicated to helping you achieve your weight loss goals the right way. Contact us today by clicking here to learn more about our comprehensive weight loss programs. Or schedule your FREE 30 minute consultation with Stephanie Solaris right away by clicking here.
Whole Health and the Skinny Shot Boom – Buyer Beware
In recent years, skinny shots have taken the weight loss world by storm. These injections promise quick and effective weight loss, but what exactly are they? What Are Skinny Shots? Skinny shots come in various forms, including semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic, Wegovy and ZepBound), Lipotropic Injections, B12 Injections, and HCG Injections. Each type has its unique properties and benefits, but they all share a common goal: aiding in weight loss by suppressing appetite and boosting metabolism. Types of Skinny Shots Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, ZepBound): These GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking a hormone (glucagon-like-peptide-1) that helps the body use food as energy, regulates blood sugar levels, and targets the brain’s appetite regulation areas, making you feel fuller longer. Lipotropic Injections: These contain a mix of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that promote short term fat breakdown and metabolism. B12 Injections: These shots boost short term, 1-3 day, energy levels and metabolism, which can support short term weight loss efforts by improving energy so you can do more. HCG Injections: Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) injections claim to help lose fat while preserving muscle mass. Pros and Cons of Skinny Shots Pros Appetite Suppression: Many of these injections help reduce hunger, making it easier to stick to a calorie deficit. Metabolic Boost: Some shots, like Lipotropic and B12, enhance metabolism, helping your body burn more calories. Energy Levels: B12 injections can increase energy, which might improve exercise performance and overall activity levels. Cons Side Effects: These can include nausea, diarrhea, headaches, constipation, heartburn and potential allergic reactions. Appetite Suppression: reducing hunger does not necessarily mean reducing cravings for unhealthy foods. It simply means you get full faster. That said, you may still crave cookies, chips or wine, just have less of it. Decreasing its effectiveness for fat loss and increasing the effects of muscle loss (becoming a fat – skinny person). Temporary Solution: Skinny shots don’t address underlying health issues or promote sustainable lifestyle changes. Risk of Buying Online: Purchasing injections online or using generic versions can be dangerous due to the lack of regulation and potential for contamination. Dependency: Relying on injections without making lifestyle changes can lead to weight regain once the injections are stopped. The Importance of Professional Guidance Using skinny shots without the guidance of a professional weight loss expert can be risky and ineffective in the long term. Here’s why: Side Effects and Risks Skinny shots can have several side effects. Semaglutide, for example, may cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, heartburn, and even pancreatitis in severe cases. Lipotropic injections can lead to allergic reactions, and HCG injections have been associated with a variety of health risks, including ovarian hyperstimulation in women. The dangers of buying these injections online are even greater. Without regulation, you could be purchasing contaminated or improperly dosed products, leading to serious health issues. The Illusion of a Magic Fix While skinny shots can help you lose weight by slowing gastric flow and making you feel fuller, they are not a magic fix. We’ve all experienced the cycle: lose weight, get down 20 pounds, and still struggle with cravings, poor sleep, stress and other symptoms. Without addressing these underlying issues, weight loss is rarely sustainable. Feeling full doesn’t eliminate cravings, improve sleep, or resolve other health issues like hot flashes. You might still find yourself reaching for potato chips, drinking multiple cups of coffee, or craving that glass of wine or three at night. The drug does its job, but if your lifestyle choices don’t change, the weight loss won’t be permanent, and you could gain it all back—or even more. Doing It Right: The Whole Health Approach To achieve lasting results, it’s essential to prep, get tested, and make necessary lifestyle adjustments before taking the shot. This means: Comprehensive Health Testing: Understanding your body’s specific needs and any underlying health issues. Healthy Diet and Nutrition: Adopting a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support overall health and weight loss. Lifestyle Changes: Reducing stress, improving sleep quality, and eliminating unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking. Stress Management: Incorporating techniques to manage stress effectively, as chronic stress can hinder weight loss efforts. Sleep Quality: Ensuring adequate and restful sleep to support metabolism and overall health. Take my FREE Stress Less Sleep More Quiz to learn what do your stress and sleep habits say about you? Regular Exercise: Incorporating physical activity to boost metabolism and maintain muscle mass. How Solaris Whole Health Can Help At Solaris Whole Health, we support you every step of the way. Our Solaris Personal Transformation program, available in 6 or 12-month options, is designed specifically to meet your health goals before, during, and after you start your skinny shots. Work 1-on-1 with Stephanie Solaris and her team to address and improve areas such as stress management, hormone imbalances, chronic illness, digestion, fatigue, allergies, weight gain, and menopause. We collaborate with your doctor to ensure a holistic approach to your weight loss journey. Our program includes: Preparation: Thorough health assessments and personalized plans before you start taking skinny shots. Ongoing Support: Regular check-ins and adjustments to your plan as needed. Sustainable Health: Focusing on whole health to ensure you not only lose weight but also maintain it and improve your overall well-being. Solaris Whole Health programs are science-based lifestyle and nutrition plans, designed specifically for you to achieve ultimate success. You can’t lose weight if you don’t feel great. By addressing all aspects of your health, we help you achieve real, lasting results. Trust Solaris Whole Health to guide you through your weight loss journey with a comprehensive, balanced approach. Solaris Whole Health is dedicated to helping you achieve your weight loss goals the right way. Contact us today by clicking here to learn more about our comprehensive weight loss programs. Or schedule your FREE 30 minute consultation with Stephanie Solaris right away by clicking here.
13 Different Ways to Detox Naturally: The Solaris Whole Health Way
With so much buzz these days about doing a detox program or cleanse, it’s hard to know what route is best. There are so many fad nutrition and lifestyle programs out there that you might already feel stressed just considering which one to choose. In today’s fast-paced world, the last thing you want is for a detox to put additional stress on you. The good news is that a comprehensive whole-body program and nutritional supplements will do just the opposite. This article provides information about the best natural ways to safely and effectively detox. We’ll also explain why the Solaris Whole Health approach of using functional medicine is the most effective. 13 Different Ways to Detox: The Solaris Whole Health Way For a whole-body reset to be effective, it’s essential to identify and clear not only toxic materials, but also toxic triggers, thoughts, and emotions. Many approaches can be effective in activating and mobilizing the removal of toxins. However, they are not always easy to follow. The following 13 methods can easily be incorporated into your personalized diet plan to help you effectively reset your mind and body. Reduce Toxic Exposure According to research, over 80,000 chemicals are approved for use in the US. Many of these are known endocrine disrupters and obesogens. They interfere with hormonal balance and can cause weight gain or an inability to lose weight. To reduce toxic exposure and support detox, follow these three simple tips: Avoid unnecessary medications. Use glass instead of plastic in your kitchen. Opt for natural and organic cosmetic, personal hygiene, and household cleaning products. Check out this article for more ways to avoid toxic chemicals, and the EWG’s Dirty Dozen Endocrine Disrupters. Go Organic While certain environmental toxins can be harder to avoid (such as those in the air), you have choices around the foods you consume. Conventional foods that use pesticides and herbicides can increase the body’s toxic load. Those particularly susceptible to the dangers of food chemicals include children, pregnant and nursing mothers, and women of childbearing age. To greatly minimize exposure to toxic foods, buy organic as often as possible. If you need to pick and choose due to cost, check out the Environmental Working Group’s dirty dozen list to learn which fruits and vegetables are most important to buy organic and which are somewhat less toxic. z Real foods from nature that are not processed contain nutrients, antioxidants, enzymes and phytochemicals that naturally support all phases of detoxification. At Solaris Whole Health, we aim to help you work smarter-not harder-when it comes to detox and your health. For this reason, many of our clients have found great success with the SOLFUEL Clear Cleansing System® , as it features a whole foods-based meal replacement and dietary supplements that are concentrated with specific macro and micronutrients to make your detox highly effective and efficient. Here are some key highlights of our formula: Contains targeted multivitamin blend from whole foods to fuel liver enzyme systems Features 18 grams of easy-to-digest non-GMO pea protein Provides high-quality antioxidants and fiber from superfoods to promote digestive cleansing Contains protease enzymes to assist with protein absorption and healthy digestion Eliminate Regularly Daily bowel movements are foundational for proper detox. If you’re not eliminating regularly, then the body isn’t able to get rid of toxins. This can produce dangerous free radicals that lead to systemic inflammation and even tissue damage. It also means that endotoxins (a bacterial toxin that lives inside of cells) can get reabsorbed in the gut. If you’re not going to the bathroom every day despite eating a clean diet, taking dietary nutritional supplements, and staying well-hydrated, then you might need to work with a functional medicine practitioner to get to the root cause of your constipation. Activate Detox Pathways An effective detox plan includes foods and vitamin supplements that activate phase I and phase II liver detox. You can accomplish this to a certain extent with just whole foods. However, using vitamin and nutritional supplements that offer detox-activating nutrients in therapeutic doses can be extremely beneficial. At Solaris Whole Health, we use SOLFUEL Cleansing System® to support phases I and II liver detox. We place emphasis on phase II, as this tends to be sluggish in many people. Activating phase I detox without supporting phase II can lead you down a dangerous road. Check out this article for more information on this important topic. Dry Skin Brush The practice of dry skin brushing is an incredible way to support detoxification pathways in the body. It doubles as a great self-care technique. By brushing away dead skin cells, your skin becomes brighter, plumper and more toned. It also supports the body’s lymphatic system, meaning you’ll have a healthier immune system. Check out this resource for a step-by-step guide on how get started. Stay Well Hydrated The importance of hydration for detoxification and overall health can’t be understated. Water supports the kidneys and helps to flush toxins out of the body via digestion, urination and perspiration. Drink a minimum of half of your body weight (in pounds) in ounces of water every day. Gentle Movement A detox isn’t the time for strenuous or intense forms of exercise, but it is a perfect opportunity for gentle movement. A detox is also a unique chance to redefine your relationship with exercise. Remember that the human body was meant to move in many ways, so choose activities that bring you joy. This might be dance, walking, restorative yoga and stretching, meditative movement techniques like Qigong or taking a family hike. Here are 10 detoxifying yoga postures that can be a relaxing compliment to your detox. Practice Relaxation Techniques Studies show that meditation lowers inflammation caused by stress, along with a myriad of other incredible physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health benefits. Choose a relaxation technique that speaks to you, such as meditation, simple deep breathing (like box breathing), gentle yoga, Qigong, Tai Chi, walking in nature or time with friends. Self-care and stress management