Episode 40: Life After Alcohol: What Really Happens When You Stop Drinking with Katie Addison Smith

If you’ve ever dabbled in Dry January or found yourself wondering what life might look like with less (or no) alcohol, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. In this episode, Nicola speaks to Nutritional Therapist Katie Addison-Smith, who shares her deeply personal story of navigating critical illness and making the life-changing decision to give up alcohol — permanently. Now, seven years on, Katie reflects on how removing alcohol hasn’t taken anything away — it’s added more joy, connection, health, and freedom than she ever thought possible. This is a non-judgemental, hopeful conversation about identity, socialising, self-care and how we can reimagine what it means to truly enjoy life. Whether you’re sober-curious or simply reflecting on your own relationship with alcohol, this conversation is packed with warmth, honesty and inspiration. One-to-One Nutritional Therapy - https://p.bttr.to/3gs8X3M  Hormone Insights & Support Service - https://www.nicola-moore.com/hormone-insights-support-service  Liberate Food Freedom Course - https://www.nicola-moore.com/liberate-1  Nutrition Practitioner and Student Mentoring Groups - https://www.nicola-moore.com/nmpractitionersupport  Website | Facebook | Instagram https://www.nicola-moore.com/   https://www.facebook.com/NicolaMooreNutrition https://www.instagram.com/nicolamoorenutrition/ 

What if autoimmunity wasn’t the body turning against you, but a call for deeper care and understanding? In this episode of Healthily, I’m joined by Nutritional Therapist Elisa Ferguson, who specialises in supporting people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). We explore the wider story behind autoimmune conditions – including how stress, gut health, trauma, and diet all interact in powerful ways. We take a look at the cell danger response – a protective mechanism where the body essentially "hits pause" on certain functions to deal with threat. When this response becomes chronic, it can contribute to many chronic conditions, including MS. Together, we reflect on why people often fall down rabbit holes in search of solutions, and how to find a gentler, more effective way forward. This is an episode full of insight, calm, and connection – not just for those living with MS, but for anyone curious about how to support whole-body health through the lens of autoimmunity.  For more resources, support, and information on how I work, visit www.nicola-moore.com You'll find details about my clinic, courses, and services designed to support real-life health — with compassion, clarity and practicality.  Are you a qualified nutritional therapist or student practitioner looking for support in clinic? My Clinical Support Groups are a warm, practical space where you can build confidence, ask questions, and learn how to simplify and personalise your client work — without overwhelm. Whether you’re newly qualified or more experienced and looking for fresh perspective, you’ll find honest discussion, real-world strategy, and encouragement that makes a difference.  Learn more and sign up at www.nicola-moore.com    One-to-One Nutritional Therapy - https://p.bttr.to/3gs8X3M  Hormone Insights & Support Service - https://www.nicola-moore.com/hormone-insights-support-service  Liberate Food Freedom Course - https://www.nicola-moore.com/liberate-1  Nutrition Practitioner and Student Mentoring Groups - https://www.nicola-moore.com/nmpractitionersupport  Website | Facebook | Instagram https://www.nicola-moore.com/   https://www.facebook.com/NicolaMooreNutrition https://www.instagram.com/nicolamoorenutrition/   

In this episode of Healthily, Nicola speaks with medical herbalist Rhian Jones to explore the world of herbal medicine. From teas to tinctures, capsules to creams, they unpack what herbs are, the forms they come in, and how to use them effectively. Rhian shares common mistakes people make when using herbs, how to avoid them, and which remedies are most helpful for common complaints. Whether you're herbal-curious or looking to deepen your knowledge of natural medicine, this conversation is full of practical advice and grounded insight. Rhian also shares the story behind her company Botanical Boutique, which offers beautifully curated herbal products and is the sponsor of this episode. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in using nature as a gentle but powerful ally in their health journey. One-to-One Nutritional Therapy  Hormone Insights & Support Service  Liberate Food Freedom Course  Nutrition Practitioner and Student Mentoring Groups  Website | Facebook | Instagram  

In this episode of Healthily, Nicola speaks with fertility-focused nutritional therapist Alison Hall to explore the sensitive and emotional topic of fertility after miscarriage. With empathy and expertise, Alison shares a wealth of practical, empowering insights—ranging from nutrition and lifestyle guidance to the often-overlooked role of thyroid health. Whether you've experienced loss, are supporting someone who has, or want to better understand fertility, this episode offers tools, tests to consider, and—most importantly—a message of hope and ownership.   One-to-One Nutritional Therapy  Hormone Insights & Support Service Liberate Food Freedom Course Nutrition Practitioner and Student Mentoring Groups Website | Facebook | Instagram

In this episode of Healthily, Nicola is joined by Jo Majithia, Head of Education at Regenerus Laboratories, to explore the DUTCH test—a cutting-edge tool for gaining insight into hormone health and its symptoms. Together, they unpack what makes this test different, how it relates to issues like fatigue, weight gain, low mood, and cycle changes, and how it can guide personalised diet and lifestyle strategies. They also discuss hormone health in perimenopause, the role of cortisol and stress, and whether testing is the right move for you. This is a must-listen for anyone curious about hormones, functional testing, and evidence-based wellness support.   One-to-One Nutritional Therapy  Hormone Insights & Support Service Liberate Food Freedom Course Nutrition Practitioner and Student Mentoring Groups Website | Facebook | Instagram

Parenting a teenager isn’t easy—but neither is being a teenager. Between school stress, self-doubt, mood changes, and increasing independence, it can feel like a whirlwind of emotions and challenges. In this episode of Healthily, I’m joined by teen coach Maria Evans, who has spent years working with teenagers and their families. Together, we unpack:  Why teens experience self-doubt & school stress (especially during exam season)  How changes in teen behavior are part of their development (not just ‘being difficult’)  Effective communication strategies to strengthen your relationship with your teen  How to help teenagers build confidence & independence—without overwhelm If you’re a parent, teacher, or simply someone who wants to better understand the teen mind, this episode is for you.   One-to-One Nutritional Therapy  Hormone Insights & Support Service Liberate Food Freedom Course Nutrition Practitioner and Student Mentoring Groups Website | Facebook | Instagram

Why do some of us feel hungrier than others? Is fasting really the best approach for everyone? And how do our genes influence the way we process sugars and fats? In this fascinating episode of Healthily, I’m joined by Emma Beswick, CEO of Lifecode Gx, to explore the genetics of metabolism and what this means for how we eat and live. Emma shares the science behind nutrigenomics, explaining how our unique genetic blueprint affects hunger, energy regulation, and long-term health. Most importantly, we discuss practical, science-backed steps to support metabolism in a way that works for your body.   One-to-One Nutritional Therapy  Hormone Insights & Support Service Liberate Food Freedom Course Nutrition Practitioner and Student Mentoring Groups Website | Facebook | Instagram

What if the key to a thriving metabolism lies deep inside your cells? In this episode, I sit down with nutritional therapist Dawn Waldron, whose personal journey as a breast cancer survivor has led her to explore metabolism through the fascinating world of mitochondrial health. We dive into the real reasons why fasting, exercise, and gut health are so essential—not just for weight management, but for energy, longevity, and disease prevention. Plus, we explore emerging research, including the intriguing concept of reverse Krebs and its potential role in chronic health conditions. Whether you're a health enthusiast or a professional, this conversation will change how you think about metabolism and what it really means to fuel your body for lifelong health.   One-to-One Nutritional Therapy  Hormone Insights & Support Service Liberate Food Freedom Course Nutrition Practitioner and Student Mentoring Groups Website | Facebook | Instagram

There’s a lot of talk about HRT and menopause right now—some of it incredibly helpful, but some of it creating confusion and even pressure. For years, HRT was viewed with skepticism, but now the conversation has swung the other way, making many women feel like they should take it—or risk missing out on essential health benefits. So, what’s the truth? Should every woman take HRT? And if you’re already on it, how can you make sure you’re getting the most out of it before increasing doses or adding extra hormones like testosterone? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Claire Phipps, a menopause specialist and holistic doctor, to have a calm, practical, and balanced discussion about HRT. We cover:  The real benefits of HRT—and when it might not be necessary  Why menopause care should be about more than just medication  How gut health, inflammation, weight management, and stress play a key role in midlife wellbeing  Why one size fits all approaches don’t work—and what to consider instead Whether you’re in perimenopause, postmenopause, or simply want to be informed for the future, this episode will help you cut through the noise and find an approach that works for you.  If you're feeling unsure about your hormones and want clarity on what’s going on in your body, my Hormone Insights & Support Service can help. Get expert guidance tailored to you—no guesswork, no confusion.  Find out more: www.nicola-moore.com   One-to-One Nutritional Therapy  Hormone Insights & Support Service Liberate Food Freedom Course Nutrition Practitioner and Student Mentoring Groups Website | Facebook | Instagram

The festive season is here, and with it comes joy, celebration—and often stress about food and eating. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of holiday treats, social events, or the worry of “undoing” your hard work, this Christmas Special of Healthily is for you. I’m Nicola Moore, a nutritionist with over 20 years of experience, and in this episode, I’m sharing simple strategies to help you navigate Christmas with confidence and balance. ✨ Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ How to enjoy your favorite festive foods without guilt. ✅ Practical tips to stop overeating and break free from the “all-or-nothing” mindset. ✅ How to maintain energy, avoid feeling sluggish, and step into 2025 feeling light and motivated. ✅ Why holiday eating doesn’t have to derail your metabolism, health goals, or emotional wellbeing. As we close 2025, this episode is your guide to a stress-free, enjoyable holiday season that sets you up for a strong start to the New Year. And if you’re ready to take things to the next level, don’t miss my 21-Day Metabolic Reset kicking off on January 6th. It’s the perfect way to recharge your metabolism, build a positive relationship with food, and start 2025 feeling energized, clear-headed, and in control. 👉 Learn more and sign up here 🎧 Tune in now to Healthily and let’s make this holiday season one to enjoy, not just survive! Nicola's website: www.nicola-moore.com Follow Nicola on Instagram @nicolamoorenutrition   One-to-One Nutritional Therapy  Hormone Insights & Support Service Liberate Food Freedom Course Nutrition Practitioner and Student Mentoring Groups Website | Facebook | Instagram