Optimizing Your Health Pt.1: Bloodwork with Joanna Dara
Hey, Fit Body Lifers! Today, we’re diving into an essential topic that can be a game changer for your health: bloodwork. In this episode, we had the pleasure of chatting with Joanna Dara, a licensed nutritionist and hormone specialist from HormoneLogix, to explore how understanding your body through comprehensive bloodwork can lead to better health outcomes. This is part one of a two-part series, and we’re starting with the basics of why advocating for yourself and understanding your blood markers is so crucial.
1. The Importance of Being Your Own Advocate
Joanna emphasizes how critical it is to advocate for yourself when it comes to your health. Far too often, people feel dismissed after a routine doctor’s visit where they’re told their basic lab results are “fine.” But you know your body best, and if something feels off, it’s worth investigating further. Joanna reminds us that “fine” doesn’t always mean optimal. Learning to ask the right questions and being proactive with your health is key.
2. Getting Comprehensive Bloodwork Done
A regular check-up may not reveal the full picture. Joanna encourages comprehensive lab work to get a better understanding of what’s really happening in your body. She points out that factors like hormone imbalances, cortisol levels, thyroid function, and even gut health can affect how we feel and perform daily. Understanding these markers can help you take preventative measures rather than just reacting to symptoms.
3. Fear vs. Knowledge: Overcoming the Hesitation
It’s normal to feel anxious about what bloodwork might reveal, but Joanna shares how this fear can hold us back from taking control of our health. Facing your numbers head-on can prevent larger issues down the road. The sooner you catch imbalances or potential risks, the better. As Joanna puts it, having a baseline of data lets you see trends over time and track changes, helping you make informed decisions about your health.
4. Driving Your Own Health Journey
Think of your health like driving a car—you need to know where you’re headed and have the right tools to get there. Bloodwork gives you the roadmap to navigate your health journey with clarity. It’s not just about fitness, but also about improving things like brain function, energy levels, and your ability to fully engage in your everyday life with your loved ones.
