At FROM WITHIN, I often meet people who feel “wired and tired,” wake unrefreshed, ride waves of cravings and energy dips, or notice gut flare‑ups when life gets busy. Many have a sense that stress or past pressures are still echoing in the body. A helpful way to understand this is through your stress‑response network—especially the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis—alongside a polyvagal lens that explains how the nervous system prioritises safety. This article keeps the science clear but practical: it outlines what the HPA axis does, how chronic stress can nudge it off‑rhythm, why that can show up in your gut, sleep, mood, and metabolism, and how evidence‑based nutrition and gentle lifestyle anchors can support you back toward steadier energy and resilience.

As a clinical nutritionist, I often emphasise the liver’s critical role in maintaining overall health. The liver is a powerhouse organ responsible for detoxification, metabolism, and nutrient storage. Liver enzyme tests are an essential diagnostic tool that provides insights into liver function and systemic health. At FROM WITHIN, we explore commonly tested liver enzymes, including the significance of the AST/ALT De Ritis ratio, what their levels indicate, the impact of common medications on liver health, and evidence-based dietary, lifestyle, and nutraceutical strategies to support optimal liver function.

Iron is a critical mineral for human health, playing a pivotal role in oxygen transport, energy production, and immune function. Iron studies, a panel of blood tests, provide essential insights into iron metabolism, helping clinicians assess health status and guide treatment. At FROM WITHIN we explore the components of an iron panel, their implications for health, how iron is transported in the body, why it is essential, the consequences of iron deficiency, and why supplementation should only be managed by healthcare professionals due to the risk of iron toxicity.

As global life expectancy rises, dementia has emerged as a pressing public health challenge, affecting over 50 million people worldwide (World Health Organization, 2020). Dementia, a syndrome characterised by cognitive decline severe enough to impair daily functioning, is most commonly caused by Alzheimer’s disease (AD), followed by vascular dementia (VaD). Ageing remains the primary risk factor, but recent evidence highlights the interplay of genetic predispositions, such as the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene, and modifiable metabolic risk factors. At FROM WITHIN, we explore the latest evidence on dementia risk, the role of the APOE gene, metabolic contributors, and evidence-based strategies to mitigate risk.

Carbohydrates have been unfairly demonised in recent years, with many popular diets promoting the idea that "all carbs are bad" for health. This oversimplification has led to widespread confusion, causing people to avoid carbohydrates altogether, often to the detriment of their wellbeing. At FROM WITHIN, we aim to set the record straight by highlighting the critical role that complex carbohydrates play in supporting optimal health and addressing the myths surrounding carbohydrate consumption. We explore why complex carbohydrates are essential, how they differ from simple carbohydrates, and why blanket statements about carbs being "bad" are misleading.

As a clinical nutritionist, I frequently work with clients concerned about their metabolic health, especially as they age. Insulin resistance, a condition that becomes more common with advancing age, is a critical factor in the development of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Key biomarkers including HbA1c, fasting insulin, and C-peptide provide valuable insights into metabolic health and guide interventions to promote healthy aging.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by persistent inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity that impacts daily functioning (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). In Australia, ADHD diagnoses are increasingly common among children and adults, prompting exploration into effective management strategies. As a clinical nutritionist, I have observed compelling evidence that nutrition, lifestyle, and nutraceutical interventions, particularly those targeting the gut microbiome, can support individuals with ADHD.

As we age, many of us notice changes in our vision, particularly around the age of 50. Tasks such as reading fine print or working on a computer become challenging, often requiring us to hold objects farther away or squint to focus. This phenomenon, known as presbyopia, is a natural part of aging and can be managed effectively. At FROM WITHIN, we have seen how lifestyle, diet, and proactive care can support eye health and potentially delay or mitigate vision changes. Today, we explore why reading glasses become necessary around age 50, and the science behind age-related vision changes, providing evidence-based strategies to keep your eyes in optimal condition.

Perimenopause and menopause bring profound changes to a woman’s body, with midsection weight gain being a common and frustrating concern. This visceral fat accumulation affects appearance, self-esteem, and health, increasing risks for metabolic disorders. At FROM WITHIN, we explore the causes of this weight gain, emphasising the role of clinical nutritionists in addressing it internally, the insights provided by functional testing such as the DUTCH test, and the critical interplay of hormones, metabolic health, lean muscle mass, stress, sleep, and diet.

At FROM WITHIN, we believe that true health extends beyond nutrition, it encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. Our holistic approach integrates evidence-based lifestyle strategies such as meditation, breathwork, cold and hot therapy, and mindfulness to help our clients manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. In today’s fast-paced world, mental health issues are increasingly common, but research shows that these practices can offer powerful, accessible tools for fostering resilience and wellbeing. Today, we explore the science behind these practices and how they can support your mental health journey.

Perimenopause, the transition to menopause, often catches women off guard, especially when symptoms are subtle or absent. Many women are unaware of the “invisible” effects of fluctuating hormones on heart, bone, and brain health, leading to confusion about whether Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is necessary if they feel fine. At FROM WITHIN, we aim to clarify the benefits of HRT, particularly bioidentical forms, to empower women to make informed choices. Alongside HRT, targeted nutrition and supplementation strategies can further support health during this life stage, addressing both silent risks and any emerging symptoms.

Thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and Graves’ disease, impact millions of people worldwide, disrupting metabolism, energy, and wellbeing. At FROM WITHIN, we specialise in evidence-based, personalised strategies to support thyroid health. Today we explore the effects of thyroid conditions and how targeted nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle choices can transform your health. If you’re struggling with thyroid issues, we invite you to book a consultation to create a personalised plan for optimal wellness and long-term health.

Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental health conditions globally, affecting millions of individuals across age groups. Recent research has demonstrated the intricate relationship between anxiety and the gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication network linking the gastrointestinal system and the brain. This connection has significant implications for both mental and physical health, particularly in the context of the digestive system. In Australia, the “anxious generation”, a term often used to describe younger cohorts, particularly Generation Z and younger Millennials, faces a troubling trend of rising anxiety and associated health issues. At FROM WITHIN we specialise in addressing these challenges through personalised nutrition strategies.

Endometriosis is a chronic, often debilitating condition affecting millions of women worldwide, yet it remains under diagnosed and misunderstood. Characterised by the growth of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, endometriosis can cause significant pain and impact quality of life. FROM WITHIN explores endometriosis, including its symptoms, causes, and how certified practising nutritionists (CPNs) can offer holistic support.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are conditions that significantly impact the physical and emotional wellbeing of many women during their reproductive years. While PMS is common, PMDD is a severe, debilitating condition recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a distinct disorder since 2019, listed under the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) as GA34.41 (World Health Organisation, 2019). FROM WITHIN provides an evidence-based overview of PMS and PMDD, including symptoms, causes, and how a certified practising nutritionist can support women in managing these conditions.

Nutritional biochemistry is the study of the molecular interactions between nutrients and the body, focusing on how dietary components influence physiological processes and overall health. Nutrients are fundamental to health because they serve as the building blocks for cellular structures, energy production, and the regulation of metabolic pathways.

In today’s world, the food we consume is often laden with pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and other chemical residues. Even organic produce can carry traces of environmental pollutants (Lu et al., 2018). These chemicals accumulate in our bodies over time, contributing to a phenomenon known as "toxic burden," which can negatively impact health and wellbeing. One simple yet effective way to reduce this toxic burden is by thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables with a specialised produce wash designed to remove chemical residues.

Autoimmune conditions, such as type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), multiple sclerosis (MS), thyroid disorders (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease), and coeliac disease, occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. These conditions can lead to chronic inflammation, pain, fatigue, and a reduced quality of life. While medical treatments such as immunosuppressants and anti-inflammatory drugs are often necessary, emerging research highlights the critical role of nutrition in managing autoimmune diseases.

As winter approaches, the risk of respiratory infections rises. This is due to factors including reduced sunlight exposure, colder temperatures, and increased indoor activities (Mourtzoukou & Falagas, 2020). A strong immune system is essential for preventing seasonal illnesses, and current research confirms that targeted lifestyle and supplementation strategies can enhance immune defences (Calder, 2020).

In today’s fast-paced, modern world, health issues are often treated as isolated symptoms rather than as part of a larger, interconnected system. As a qualified practising nutritionist, I have seen firsthand how this approach fails to address the underlying causes of chronic conditions, leading to a cycle of temporary relief and recurring problems. The key to health span, lies in understanding and addressing the root cause of health issues, rather than merely treating symptoms.