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Shyleigh Thiessen, Chase, BC (2026)

04/23/2026

| 𝐃𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐈𝐅𝐘 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐅𝐈𝐁𝐄𝐑, 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐋 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐆𝐔𝐓 |
Most of us know we need "more fiber," but did you know that not all fiber is created equal? 🍎🌾
As a Certified Holistic Nutritionist, I often see people sticking to the same two or three types of fiber (usually just fruit and maybe some oats) and calling it a "high-fiber diet." But if we want a resilient, thriving gut microbiome, we need to think about diversity.
👉 Think of your gut like a vibrant garden: The different types of fiber are like different kinds of "fertilizer" or plant food. Just like some flowers in your garden need specific nutrients to bloom, different beneficial gut bacteria (our "flowers") need specific types of fiber to thrive! 🌸
To truly support your digestion, hormones, and immune system, we want to aim for a variety of the 6 main types of dietary fiber.
🌿 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟔: 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐆𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐀𝐥𝐥?
• Inulin: Found in garlic, onions, leeks, and asparagus. This is a powerhouse prebiotic that feeds the "good guys" in your gut!
• Pectin: Found in apple skins, citrus peels, and berries. It’s amazing for supporting healthy cholesterol levels and smooth digestion. 🍓
• Beta-glucan: Found in oats, barley, and mushrooms. This type is famous for its heart-health benefits and its ability to help balance blood sugar.
• Resistant Starch: Found in green bananas and cooled cooked starches (like potatoes or rice).

💡 OMG Fact: When you cook and then cool your potatoes, it changes the starch structure so it passes through to your colon to feed your microbes! 🥔
• Cellulose: Found in almost all vegetables and bran. This provides the "bulk" that keeps things moving through your system.
• Psyllium/Mucilage: Found in chia seeds, flaxseeds, and psyllium husk. This creates that "gel" that is so soothing for the gut lining.
📚 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐮𝐭-𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐄𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞
Leading gut-health experts and dietitians (like Dr. Will Bulsiewicz in Fiber Fueled) emphasize that the #1 predictor of a healthy gut is the diversity of plants in your diet. Research suggests aiming for 30+ different plant foods a week to ensure you're hitting all these different fiber types!
When we provide this variety, we are supporting metabolic health, lowering inflammation, and helping our bodies naturally detoxify. It’s not just about "going to the bathroom"—it's about fueling your entire temple.
✨ 𝐅𝐢𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐬:
☆ The 50/50 Mix: Use half oats and half quinoa for your morning bowl to up that fiber!
⭐️BIG WIN —> Add a tbsp of ground flax and some chopped apples
☆ Keep the Skins: Whenever possible, leave the skins on your apples and potatoes for that extra pectin and cellulose! Opt for organic if possible.
☆ Cool it Down: Prep your potatoes ahead of time and eat them cooled (or reheated) to boost that resistant starch.
—> Potato Salad anyone?
True health starts in the gut. By embracing a plant-forward, diverse way of eating, you are giving your body the tools it needs to thrive. ♡
How many different plants have you eaten today? Let’s count them up in the comments! 👇
NutraPhoria Integrative Health Institute

04/22/2026

| 𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐓-𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐃 101 |
"But where do you get your... ?"
👉 If I had a dollar for every time I’ve been asked “where do you get your protein” over the last 11 years, I’d have a very full piggy bank! 😅
Here’s the truth: a well-planned, whole-food plant-based (wfpb) diet is not only nutritionally adequate, but it's considered health-promoting for all stages of life—including pregnancy, breastfeeding, and childhood.
This isn't just my opinion; it’s backed by major organizations like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM).
But just like any way of eating, a little intention goes a long way. 🤍
Being "plant-based" isn't just about what you remove—it’s about the beautiful variety of what you get to add in! Meeting your needs is actually much easier than the media makes it out to be when you focus on REAL food.
🌿 𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐍𝐮𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝:
▪︎ Vitamin B12: This is the non-negotiable one! B12 is made by bacteria, not plants or animals. Since we live in such a sanitized world, a reliable supplement or fortified foods are essential to support your brain, nerves, and energy.
▪︎ Omega-3s: Vital for heart and brain health.
👉 Use 1-2 tbsp of ground chia, h**p, or flaxseeds daily in your morning oats or smoothies.
👉 Consider an algae-based EPA/DHA supplement for a direct form!
▪︎ Iron & Zinc: Plants are loaded with these! Found in abundance in beans, lentils, seeds, and grains.
👉 Pair your iron-rich foods with Vitamin C (like a squeeze of lemon or bell peppers) to boost absorption by up to 4-6 times! 🍋
👉 Some plant foods contain natural compounds called phytates, which can reduce how much zinc (and iron) your body absorbs...but the beautiful part is we can work with this, not against it.
👉 Simple ways to boost mineral absorption:
• Soak beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds before cooking
• Choose sprouted or fermented foods (like sourdough or sprouted grain bread)
• Include leavened breads instead of dense, unfermented grains when possible
• Cook your legumes well (goodbye tummy troubles, too 🙌)
• Spread higher-zinc foods throughout the day instead of relying on one big serving
▪︎ Calcium: You don’t need dairy for strong bones. Reach for tahini, calcium-set tofu, leafy greens (like kale & bok choy), and fortified plant milks.
👉 Little perspective shift: Countries with the highest dairy intake often have some of the highest rates of osteoporosis and hip fractures.
📚 What the research shows:
Ecological and population data (like the well-known comparisons discussed in The China Study) have observed higher fracture rates in countries with greater dairy consumption. Reviews published in journals such as British Medical Journal have also explored these patterns, noting that higher milk intake does not necessarily correlate with lower fracture risk.
▪︎ Iodine: Important for thyroid function. Use iodized salt in moderation or include small amounts of sea vegetables like nori or dulse.
▪︎ Vitamin D: The "sunshine vitamin." Especially here in Canada where our sun exposure is limited! ☁️ Supplementation is usually recommended.
👉 Quick Tip: Pairing D3 with K2 is where it is at for proper calcium metabolism! We are all unique though, so whether you need 1000iu or more/less depends on your body. 🏔️
📚 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐈𝐭𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟
Don't just take my word for it! Leading medical organizations and resources like PCRM and NutritionFacts.org have shown time and again that a well-planned, plant-based diet is a powerhouse for our health. Research consistently links this way of eating to a lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
"A plant-based diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, is a powerful way to achieve good health." — PCRM
It’s not about perfection—it’s about patterns, consistency, and nourishment over time. 🌿
Choosing a plant-forward lifestyle isn’t restrictive; it’s expansive! It’s about fueling your body with high-vibrational foods while being smart about those "essential" gaps.
💬 Have a nutrient you’re unsure about? Message me anytime. I’m always happy to help you navigate this in a way that feels doable for your real life! 💖
— Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace individualized medical or nutritional advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations, especially before starting new supplements.
NutraPhoria Integrative Health Institute

04/21/2026

| 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐀𝐆𝐈𝐂 𝐎𝐅 𝐅𝐈𝐁𝐄𝐑 |
Let’s talk about the one thing most of us aren't getting enough of... Fiber. 🍏
I know, I know. "Fiber" doesn't sound as "trendy" as collagen, peptides, or electrolytes, but it is the literal backbone of your health!
When we focus on fiber, we aren't just supporting digestion; we are feeding our gut microbiome, balancing our blood sugar, and supporting our heart health.
👉 Did you know that only about 5% of people meet the daily recommended fiber intake? 😬
As a mom, I know how easy it is to grab whatever is convenient. But focusing on fiber-rich, whole foods is one of the best things you can do for your long-term energy and vitality.
🌿 My Personal Journey
I’ve been predominantly plant-based for a long time now! I actually made the choice to cut meat out of my diet when I was just 16 years old. I’ve been fully plant-based since I was 19, and now that I’m 30, I can honestly say I’ve never felt better!
Does that mean YOU have to be 100% vegan? Absolutely not.
The most evidence-based, healthiest way of eating is a Plant-Forward or Mediterranean-style approach.
This means prioritizing 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐋, whole foods like the ones in the infographic. Whether you're 100% plant-based or just trying to include more "crowding out" habits, getting more plants on your plate is the goal!
🥦🫑🥑🥔🍎🍊🥬🥝🍐
📚 Want to dive deeper into the science?
If you love the "why" behind the "what" as much as I do, I highly recommend checking out these books:
▪︎ Fiber Fueled by Dr. Will Bulsiewicz (A must-read for gut health!)
▪︎ How Not to Diet by Dr. Michael Greger
▪︎ The 80/10/10 Diet by Dr. Douglas Graham
Quick Fiber Wins for Busy Moms:
☆ Top it off: Add chia or flax seeds to your morning oats or smoothies.
☆ The Swap: Try lentil pasta or chickpea-based dishes instead of conventional white flour options.
☆ Whole over Juice: Choose the whole apple or pear to keep that precious fiber intact! 🍐
Everything in this infographic—from the avocados to the Brussels sprouts—is designed to help you feel your best from the inside out.
Remember: Every bite is an opportunity to nourish your temple. Be kind to yourself, focus on balance, and love your gut! ♡
Which of these high-fiber foods is already a staple in your house? Let me know in the comments! 👇

04/20/2026

"Perfect" Nutritionist vs. My Actual Monday Night
I have a confession to make.
Sometimes, being a nutritionist comes with this quiet, unspoken pressure to have everything perfectly healthy... All. The. Time.
You know the vibe... beautiful vibrant meal prep, perfectly balanced plates, kids happily eating all their greens without a single complaint. 🥦
But honestly? That’s not real life over here... like at all.
Some days are just… a lot.😩
Between my random shifts as a server, keeping up with the house, trying to stay active here on my socials, the back-end work as a nutritionist, and the emotional marathon of being a stay-at-home mom, some days my "energy tank" doesn't just hit empty—it hits the floor.
After a very long day of toddler meltdowns, being "touched out," cleaning the same things over and over again, all while answering a thousand tiny requests every minute, the thought of cooking a gourmet, made from scratch meal feels like climbing Mount Everest.
🥱 So, what does a "low-energy" night actually look like in my house?
👉 It looks like a snacky plate or popcorn shrimp & salad. No fancy sauces, no intricate prep.
I’ll toss some berries and avocado on the side because that’s the "grace over perfection" balance I live by, but honestly some days it's more about just making sure they are fed something when that exhaustion is so real.
It’s all about nourishing where we can, but also acknowledging when we just need to survive the evening with our sanity intact.
Healthy living isn't about never failing; it’s about having the self-compassion to know that a "canned green bean & nugget night" doesn't make you a bad mom or a bad nutritionist. It makes you human.
We are all doing our best in the chaos. Tonight, if your "best" is cereal for dinner or a frozen pizza, give yourself a little bit of that same grace. 🤍
What’s your go-to "I’m exhausted" meal?
Let’s normalize the chaos in the comments. 👇

04/19/2026

| 𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐋𝐄 𝐏𝐈𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝐀 𝐁𝐎𝐖𝐋 |
The ultimate cozy Sunday morning breaky. 🍎🥧
There is something so grounding about a warm bowl of oats when the morning is a bit crisp. It’s like a big, warm hug for your nervous system!
These Apple Pie Oats have been a staple in my kitchen for years. They are wholesome, satisfying, and honestly... they taste like dessert, but they’re packed with the fiber and nutrients your body craves to start the day.
👉 Why I love this combo:
By using steel-cut oats and adding in those healthy fats from the nuts and seeds, you’re creating a slow-burning fuel that keeps your blood sugar stable all morning long. No mid-morning energy crash here! 🙌
It’s all about that balance—nourishing your temple while actually enjoying every single bite.
▪︎ Steel cut oats & a splash of milk of choice.
▪︎ Diced apple, raisins, nuts, and a touch of maple syrup.
▪︎ Cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin pie spice (the smell in the kitchen is 10/10!).
▪︎ Chia seeds stirred in for those omega-3s!
✨ TOP IT OFF:
Don't skip the toppings! I love adding a dollop of creamy coconut yogurt, some crunch from pecans, pumpkin seeds, and almonds, and a handful of mixed berries for that antioxidant boost. 🍓
💪 𝐏𝐮𝐦𝐩 𝐔𝐩 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭-𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐢𝐧
If you’re looking to make this even more satiating, there are so many easy ways to sneak in extra plant-protein! Try stirring in some silken tofu for a creamy, protein-packed texture (you won't even taste it, I promise!), or add a scoop of h**p hearts or a scoop of your fav plant-based protein powder or PB powder. Choosing a protein-rich dairy-free yogurt as your topping is another great way to ensure you're getting that muscle-recovery fuel first thing in the morning! If you're not 100% plant-based you can even add an egg or two.
Pro-Tip: Try a 50/50 mix of oats and quinoa! Quinoa is a complete protein (meaning it has all those essential amino acids!) and it adds a pleasant, slightly chewy texture that makes the bowl feel even more substantial.
Feeding your soul and your body doesn't have to be complicated. Sometimes the simplest, "from-scratch" meals are the ones that make us feel the best.
Be kind to yourself today and start your morning with some intention! ♡
What’s your go-to "cozy" breakfast? Let us know in the comments! 👇

04/19/2026

| 𝐇𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐄 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐇 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐔𝐒𝐘 𝐌𝐎𝐌 |
"I'm just tired."
"I'm just a bit moody today."
"It's just 'mom brain'..."
👉 How many times have we told ourselves these stories? 😬
As moms, we are so quick to brush off our symptoms as "part of the job," but the truth is, your hormones are the chemical messengers for your entire body. When they are out of sync, everything feels harder. From that afternoon energy crash to feeling "wired but tired" at 10 PM, your body is trying to tell you something!
Healing your hormones doesn't have to mean a cabinet full of expensive supplements or a rigid, stressful protocol. It’s about returning to the basics and nourishing your temple from the ground up.
Here is the "Heart-Based" approach to finding your balance again:
🌿 1. Eat ENOUGH (and make it Plant-Forward!)
Hormones need fuel! If you are under-eating or over-restricting, your body enters a state of stress, which can tank your progesterone. Focus on crowding out the processed stuff with 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐋, whole foods. Think vibrant colors, healthy fats (hello, avocado! 🥑), and plenty of fiber.
▪︎ PRO-TIP: Add 1-2 tbsp of ground flaxseeds to your morning smoothie or oatmeal. They are rich in lignans, which help your body bind to and eliminate excess estrogen.
💧 2. Hydrate & Flush
Your liver and kidneys are your primary detox organs. If you aren't hydrated, those used-up hormones just keep recirculating in your system. Drink a glass of warm lemon water first thing in the morning to get things moving!
🌸 3. Ditch the "Hidden" Disruptors
Did you know that "fragrance" in your candles, lotions, and laundry soap can actually act as an endocrine disruptor? These chemicals (like phthalates) can mimic estrogen in the body and throw your delicate balance way off.
👉 Switch to "low-tox" or fragrance-free options. Your hormones will thank you!
Check Out This Post To Learn More: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CejmgrqPW/
💊 4. A Note on Birth Control
Many of us were told the pill "fixes" hormones, but it actually just suppresses them. While it can mask symptoms, it doesn't address the root cause and can often deplete vital nutrients like B vitamins and magnesium. If you're struggling with the side effects, know that there are whole-food ways to support your natural cycle instead.
🌙 5. The Non-Negotiables: Sleep & Stress
You can eat all the "hormone balancing foods" in the world, but if you aren't sleeping or you're constantly in "fight or flight," your hormones won't stabilize. Cortisol (the stress hormone) is the "bully" in the playground—it will always push the others aside.
Quick Steps for Mom-Balance:
☆ The 10-Minute Reset: Sit in silence, practice deep breathing, or step outside for some fresh air.
☆ Screen-Free Hour: Put the phone away an hour before bed and an hour first thing in the morning to help your melatonin production.
☆ Eat the Rainbow: Aim for 30 different plant foods a week to feed your gut microbiome (which also helps regulate hormones!).
Remember: You cannot pour from an empty cup. Taking care of your hormone health isn't selfish—it’s the foundation that allows you to show up as the best version of yourself for your family. 💖
Be kind to yourself today. It’s all about progress, not perfection!
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and don't know where to start, reach out! I’d love to help you create a simple, heart-based plan to get your energy and your "spark" back. ♡

04/18/2026

| 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐃𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐑 𝐎𝐅 "𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐎𝐑 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆" |⁣⁣⁣
"I already ate a cookie, so I might as well eat the whole box and start again Monday..."⁣ 🍪 ⁣
👉 Sound familiar?? 😬⁣⁣
We have been conditioned to believe that health is a tightrope. One "wrong" move and you’ve fallen off, right?⁣⁣
WRONG.⁣⁣
That mindset is exactly what leads to the restrict/binge cycle that keeps so many people feeling stuck, frustrated, and honestly... exhausted. ⁣⁣
When you live in a world of "perfect" vs. "failed," you aren't actually practicing health... you're practicing stress. And stress is the ultimate high-cortisol, low-vibration state for your body! 📉⁣⁣
As a Holistic Nutritionist, I want to remind you: Your body doesn't need you to be perfect. It needs you to be consistent and KIND.⁣⁣
Health isn't a destination you arrive at by being "good." It’s a relationship you build with your temple—body, mind, & soul. ♡⁣⁣⁣
🌿 Try these "Heart-Based" Mindset Swaps:⁣⁣
▪︎ Old Thought: "I ruined my diet today."⁣
👉 New Thought: "I enjoyed a treat, and now I’m going to nourish my body with a high-vibrational dinner because I love how it makes me feel."⁣⁣
▪︎ Old Thought: "I have to workout to burn off what I ate."⁣
👉 New Thought: "I want to move my body because it clears my mind and gives me energy!"⁣⁣
▪︎ Old Thought: "I can't have that, it's 'bad'."⁣
👉 New Thought: "I can have anything I want, but I’m choosing what makes me feel energized and alive most of the time."⁣⁣⁣
Everything you do for your health should come from a place of self-love, not self-punishment. When you drop the rules and start listening to your intuition, the "need" to binge starts to fade away naturally.⁣⁣
You deserve to feel free. You deserve to feel relaxed. You deserve to enjoy your life WITHOUT food ruling your every thought! 🕊️⁣⁣
If you’re tired of the yo-yo dieting and you're ready to find a balance that actually lasts, my DMs are always open. Let's chat about how to bring more grace into your kitchen! ✨⁣⁣⁣
NutraPhoria Integrative Health Institute

04/17/2026

The Power of Blackstrap Molasses: A Plant-Based Iron Boost 🌱
If you’re looking for a simple, whole-food way to support your family’s mineral intake, it’s time to look at Blackstrap Molasses.
Unlike standard molasses, which is the result of the first or second boiling of cane sugar, blackstrap is produced during the third boiling. This process concentrates the nutrients while removing much of the sugar, resulting in a dark, robust syrup that is essentially like a liquid mineral supplement.
Why It’s a Nutritional Powerhouse:
👉 For families focusing on nutrient density, blackstrap molasses is a standout. Because it is so concentrated, a little goes a long way.
🔥 Nutritional Profile (per 1 tablespoon):
• Iron: Approximately 2.5mg – 3.5mg (about 15-20% of the Daily Value).
• Calcium: Supports bone health and nerve function.
• Magnesium: Essential for energy production and a calm nervous system.
• Potassium & Vitamin B6: Key for heart health and metabolic support.
❗️Pro-Tip: The iron in molasses is non-heme iron. To help your body (and your kids' bodies) absorb it more effectively, pair it with a source of Vitamin C, like strawberries, oranges, or bell peppers!
5️⃣ Ways To Use It:
Blackstrap has a very strong, slightly bitter, and "earthy" sweet flavour. It’s best used as an ingredient rather than a topping. Here are some easy ways to incorporate it:

1. A Simple Smoothie: Add 1 teaspoon to a blender with frozen berries (Vitamin C!), a banana, spinach, and your fav plant milk or coconut water. The fruit easily masks the deep flavour.
2. Warm Oats: Swirl a small spoonful into morning oatmeal or chia pudding. Top with h**p seeds and pumpkin seeds for an extra protein and mineral boost.
•
3. Homemade "Baked" Beans: Use it as the sweetener in a slow-cooker bean dish. It provides that classic, smoky BBQ depth of flavor.
•
4. A "Latte": Whisk 1 teaspoon into warm soy or cashew milk with a dash of cinnamon and ginger for a mineral-rich evening drink.
5. Energy Balls: Swap some honey or maple syrup for half molasses in your next batch of no-bake energy bites (oats, nut butter, flax seeds, h**p seeds, and cocoa).
What to Look For:
When shopping, always look for Unsulphured Blackstrap Molasses. This ensures the sugar cane was allowed to ripen naturally and wasn't treated with sulfur dioxide during processing, resulting in a cleaner, better-tasting product.
Does your family use molasses in your kitchen? Drop your favourite way to use it in the comments! 👇

04/17/2026

𝐋𝐞𝐭’𝐬 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐤 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 "𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞" 🌸 (𝐌𝐨𝐦-𝐭𝐨-𝐌𝐨𝐦)
Ever notice how we can smell a neighbor’s laundry from three houses away? Or how that "fresh" scent in a diaper or lotion lingers for hours?
As a Certified Holistic Nutritionist, I’ve spent a lot of time looking at what we put into our bodies, but what we put on them and breathe around them matters just as much.
The word "fragrance" (or parfum) on a label is actually a legal loophole. Because scents are considered "trade secrets," companies don’t have to list what’s in them. Often, that single word is a cocktail of hundreds of synthetic chemicals, including phthalates.
Phthalates basically serve one main purpose: staying power.
• In Scents: They help a perfume or "mountain breeze" laundry scent stick to your clothes for days. Without them, the smell would evaporate quickly.
• In Lotions/Soaps: They help the product soak into the skin or keep the formula consistent.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 "𝐑𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐠𝐬"
The reason there is so much buzz about avoiding them is that phthalates are endocrine disruptors.
Our endocrine system is a delicate network of glands that release hormones—the "messengers" that tell our bodies how to grow, how to sleep, and how to manage stress.
Phthalates are "mimics." They can trick the body into thinking a hormone is present when it isn't, or they can block the real hormones from doing their job.
Research has linked high exposure to phthalates to:
• Hormonal Imbalance: This can affect everything from reproductive health to thyroid function.
• Developmental Concerns: Since children are still growing, their endocrine systems are extra sensitive to these "mixed signals."
• Metabolic Impact: Some studies suggest a link between phthalate exposure and how our bodies store fat and manage blood sugar.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 "𝐇𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧" 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐦
The trickiest part about phthalates is that you will rarely see the word "phthalate" on a bottle. Because of labeling laws, they are almost always tucked inside the word "Fragrance" or "Parfum."
By choosing products labeled "Fragrance-Free" or "Phthalate-Free," you are effectively removing the primary way these chemicals enter your home environment.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 "𝐖𝐡𝐲" 𝐁𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐰𝐚𝐩:
• Hormone Disruptors: Many scent chemicals are "endocrine disruptors." This is just a fancy way of saying they mimic or block our natural hormones. For our growing babes (and for us!), keeping those hormones balanced is so important for mood, development, and energy.
• Respiratory Irritants: Have you ever gotten a headache or felt "stuffy" in the cleaning aisle? That’s your body’s way of saying, "No thanks!" These chemicals can trigger asthma and sensitivities.
• Skin Health: Especially for little ones with eczema or sensitive skin, synthetic scents are often the hidden culprit behind those red, itchy patches.
𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐥𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 🍁
We are so lucky to have some incredible homegrown brands that make "ditching the scent" easy and effective:
• Laundry: Nellie’s (from North Van!), Tru Earth strips, Nature Clean, or Attitude. They offer amazing unscented versions that actually get the clothes clean without the heavy chemical film.
• Cleaning & Body: The Unscented Company (Montreal) or Nature Clean for dish soap. ATTITUDE is also fantastic for lotions and shampoos.
• Diapers: Look for TCF (Totally Chlorine Free) and fragrance-free options like Hello Bello or Rascal + Friends (easily found at Walmart/Superstore!). Or of course cloth diapers cleaned with unscented laundry soap.
𝐌𝐲 𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 "𝐎𝐩𝐭-𝐈𝐧" 🌿
As a nutritionist, I look at the home like a recipe. If I want a scent, I go for the "whole food" version:
• Essential Oils: A few drops of Lemon or peppermint in a diffuser or on wool dryer balls. My personal fav smells.
• Simmer Pots: Sliced oranges and cinnamon sticks on the stove.
• Keeping it Fresh: You’d be amazed at how much a little "house hygiene" helps! Staying on top of the garbage, keeping the sink clear, and giving the floors a quick wipe-down does wonders. Even just dusting the fans or washing the curtains and carpets once in a while helps remove the hidden spots where old odors like to hang out. It’s the simplest way to keep your home smelling truly "clean" without needing a single drop of synthetic scent.
• Fresh Air: Honestly? Just opening the windows for 10 minutes a day is the best "air freshener" there is.
𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭-𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 & 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞 ✨
Here is the most important part: It isn't always possible to avoid this 100%. Sometimes the only diapers left on the shelf are scented. Sometimes you’re at a friend's house and the soap smells like "Midnight Rain." Sometimes you're gifted scented lotion or shampoo. And that is okay.
Living with intention doesn’t mean living in fear or striving for a "perfect" non-toxic home. It’s about making the better choice when you have the choice, and lead with grace over perfection.
We’re just doing our best to nourish our families' hearts and souls, one small swap at a time. 🤍
Who else is on a fragrance-free journey? What was the hardest thing for you to swap out? 👇

04/16/2026

🌿 Real Talk: Why I Traded My Smart Watch for Simplicity
Let’s talk about that constant buzz on our wrists. ⌚✨
For a long time, I was right there with you—my Fitbit was glued to my arm. I loved seeing the steps climb and tracking every move.
But honestly?
The more I learned about the "always-on" nature of wearable tech, the more I started to feel... well, a bit disconnected from my own body's signals.
In the wellness community, many of us are opting out of the smart watch trend, and it’s not just about "unplugging."
The "Cons" We Don't Always Talk About: 👇
• Constant EMF Exposure:
Smart watches use Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to stay synced 24/7. Having those frequencies right against your skin all day (and night) is something many of us feel uneasy about, especially when we’re aiming for a low-tox environment for our homes and kids. 📶
• The "Urgency" Habit:
Getting a wrist vibration for every single email or notification keeps our nervous systems in a "high alert" state. It’s hard to be present in those sweet, slow mom-moments when your wrist is demanding your attention.
• Sleep Interference:
Even "sleep tracking" can be a double-edged sword. If the device is emitting frequencies while you're trying to deeply rest, it might be doing more harm than the data is worth.
My Simple Swap 🕒
👉 I recently decided to part ways with the smart tech and went back to basics. I found an old-school watch—the kind with a simple watch battery. It also has a built-in pedometer so I can still track my movement (because let’s be real, those "mom steps" add up!), but it doesn't sync to the cloud, it doesn't ping me, and it isn't "searching" for a signal. It just does the job. Nothing fancy, just functional.
And If You're Looking For A Quick Win for Your Home —> Try The Wi-Fi Switch 🌙
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It gives our bodies (and our little ones) a true break from the signals while we sleep. It’s such a simple way to lower the "electronic noise" in your home while you're recharging.
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Are you a smart-watch lover, or have you made the switch to a low-tech version? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! 👇✨ If you have switched to a low-tech one, please share in the comments! I'm sure a lot of us would love to know!

Shyleigh Thiessen

04/23/2026

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