Send us a text

This week we're zooming in on micronutrients—the vitamins and minerals your body needs in tiny amounts to run big, life-sustaining processes.

In this episode, I break down what vitamins and minerals are, where they come from, and why they’re essential. You’ll hear how vitamins (organic compounds from plants and animals) power immunity, energy, vision, and repair—and how minerals (inorganic elements like calcium, magnesium, iron) support bones, muscles, nerves, electrolyte balance, and oxygen transport. We’ll connect familiar nutrients—vitamin D + calcium, B vitamins for metabolism, magnesium in 300+ reactions, iron for hemoglobin and mitochondrial energy, and vitamin C for collagen, antioxidant defense, and immune support—to everyday health.

We’ll also cover what deficiency can look like (fatigue, cramps, headaches, frequent illness, poor recovery) and when supplements can help—plus the pitfalls: overdosing fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), drug–nutrient interactions, and low-quality products. You’ll get practical strategies: food first (colorful produce, quality proteins, whole foods), smart supplementation, checking if meds deplete nutrients, and foundational habits—hydration, sleep, movement, and stress reduction.

Micronutrients may be “micro,” but their impact is massive. Tune in to learn how to shore up your daily essentials—safely and effectively.

References:

https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/druginduced-nutrient-depletions-what-pharmacists-need-to-know

Drug Induced Nutrient Depletion - Doctors Beyond Medicine

I want to share a helpful resource with you—a free health questionnaire designed to pinpoint the areas in your life that need focus for optimal wellness. If you're interested, simply click the link in my show notes or visit www.heal-throughfood.com to access it.

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-426-2543

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com

Send us a text

In this week’s episode, we’re diving into the world of protein—one of the three essential macronutrients alongside carbs and fats.

Proteins are often called the building blocks of life, but what does that really mean? Think of amino acids like Lego pieces—when linked together, they create the structures your body relies on every day. From building muscle and repairing tissues to producing hormones, enzymes, and antibodies, protein plays a vital role in growth, immunity, metabolism, and longevity.

We’ll explore the different types of proteins in your body—structural, contractile, transport, and more—plus the dietary proteins you need: complete, incomplete, and complementary sources. You’ll learn why quality matters, how much protein you should aim for, and why myths like “too much protein damages your kidneys” aren’t the full story.

Whether you’re eating animal protein or pairing plant-based sources, you’ll walk away with clear, practical tips for meeting your needs. Protein doesn’t just fuel athletes—it supports everyone.

Join me as we uncover how eating enough of the right protein can help you build strength, improve metabolism, and live a longer, healthier life.

References:

Hudson, J. L., Baum, J. I., Diaz, E. C., & Børsheim, E. (2021). Dietary Protein Requirements in Children: Methods for Consideration. Nutrients, 13(5), 1554. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13051554

I want to share a helpful resource with you—a free health questionnaire designed to pinpoint the areas in your life that need focus for optimal wellness. If you're interested, simply click the link in my show notes or visit www.heal-throughfood.com to access it.

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-426-2543

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com

Send us a text

Today we’re diving into a subject that often sparks confusion and controversy: fat. Last week, we explored sugar, and next week we’ll round out the macronutrient trio with protein. But today, it’s all about unpacking the complex world of dietary fats—what they are, why we need them, and how to make smarter choices for better health.

We’ll break down the different types of fats—saturated, unsaturated, trans fats, triglycerides, and cholesterol—clarifying their roles in the body. From energy storage and hormone production to brain health and cell membrane integrity, fats aren’t the villains they’ve been made out to be. In fact, healthy fats like omega-3s, olive oil, avocado, and coconut oil can protect against inflammation, support cognitive health, and help regulate appetite.

But not all fats are created equal. We’ll also cover the dangers of trans fats and poor-quality oils, their role in inflammation, and how processed foods sneak them into our diets.

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand why eating fat does not make you fat—and how thoughtful choices can protect your heart, brain, and long-term health.

Stay healthy, California—you’ve got this!

I want to share a helpful resource with you—a free health questionnaire designed to pinpoint the areas in your life that need focus for optimal wellness. If you're interested, simply click the link in my show notes or visit www.heal-throughfood.com to access it.

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-426-2543

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com