Cristina Fontana•RN•FASTer Way Coach•Nutrition•Exercise•Mindset

08/07/2024

Please read Rick’s story. He’s a friend of a friend and in need of a kidney.

I’d do it all over again if I had another kidney to share. This experience profoundly changed my life in more ways I can express.

Please share and post in your walls, the more we share, the better his chances to find a living kidney donor!

Let me know if you have ANY questions about donation! Thank you 💚💙

Being a kidney donor is estimated to be a 2-day hospital stay plus frequent outpatient visits at the transplant hospital for a couple of weeks.  

26/02/2024

Excellent video explaining how our kidneys function and their role in the body. Dr J was my kidney donation surgeon 6 years ago. Thank you Dr J.

https://youtu.be/ifmgAFHFlJQ?si=dAHiRWLh3zsghMVr

As a RN and certified health coach specializing in kidney donors and midlife health, prioritizing nutrition is paramount not only for overall donor health but also for ensuring a smooth recovery post-donation and long-term kidney function with age.

Adequate hydration is crucial to support kidney function and prevent complications such as dehydration and urinary tract infections. It's important for donors to maintain a balanced diet, paying attention to sodium intake to regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of kidney damage.

Monitoring potassium, calcium, and phosphorus levels is also essential. High potassium levels, for example, can lead to irregular heartbeats, while maintaining proper calcium and phosphorus levels supports bone health and overall well-being.

Furthermore, maintaining optimal blood pressure through diet can help protect the remaining kidney and reduce the risk of future kidney issues. As we age, it is important to note that age-related changes may affect blood pressure regulation.

Adopting a diet rich in Whole Foods (fruits and vegetables) and whole grains while limiting processed foods and sodium can be beneficial in this regard. Whole Foods are foods that come from the ground of have a mother.

Additionally, supporting red blood cell production through adequate iron and folate intake is important.

Ensuring a nutrient-rich diet can help donors recover more effectively and maintain their overall health in the long term, allowing donors to continue living healthy, fulfilling lives even after donation!

As someone passionate about kidney health, I coach kidney donors before, during, and after donation by guiding them with their nutrition, exercise, and mindset.

24/08/2023

Exciting news! 🎉🎉🎉

I'm thrilled to share that from today until Sunday, I'Il be embarking on a journey to sunny Florida for a fantastic and enriching experience.

I’m diving headfirst into a few days of intense learning, networking, and inspiration in the realm of Faster Way continuing education.

During this time, I'll have the incredible opportunity to:
1- Immerse myself in the latest coaching techniques and strategies.
2- Meet and collaborate with the remarkable Amanda Tress, a true visionary in our field.
3- Visit the heart of it all - the Faster Way headquarters - to gain insights into their innovative approach. Engage in exhilarating photo shoots that will capture the essence of this exciting journey.
4- Learn invaluable tips and tricks that will elevate my coaching skills to new heights of excellence.

I must say, being a Faster Way coach fills me with immense pride and enthusiasm. The chance to continuously evolve and enhance my coaching abilities is a privilege that I deeply appreciate.

Your unwavering support has played a pivotal role in my growth, and I'm dedicated to bringing back a wealth of knowledge and insights to serve you even better.

Please feel free to reach out, and I'II get back to you as soon as I can.

Stay tuned for updates and exciting takeaways from my Florida adventure! 🌞

22/08/2023

💪 Recovering after kidney donation?

Here are 5 key strategies that I followed to make your journey smoother!

💧 Hydrate to heal, 💤 rest for rejuvenation, 🍏 nourish your body, 🚶‍♀️ gently move, and ✅ follow medical guidance.

Your body's resilience is remarkable – let's give it the care it deserves! 🌟

Remember, everyone's recovery journey is unique, so be patient with yourself and give your body the time it needs to heal. If you have any concerns, always consult with your transplant center!

Thanks for the Follow!
Share with others, you never know who might need this! 💙💚

20/08/2023

To all the incredible women embracing the ebb and flow of Life's new chapters…

Weather you’re navigating the uncharted waters of an empty nest, embracing the thrill of a new job, savoring the joys of retirement, cradling the preciousness of a new baby, facing the challenges of a new health diagnosis, or moving to a new home. Remember that each chapter adds depth to the story of your life.

It’s okay to feel a whirlwind of emotions – from excitement to uncertainty. Each chapter also brings its own challenges and triumphs, much like the ebb and flow of the tide.

My life is a symphony of chapters, playing simultaneously. Some days, it's a challenging juggle, but within each chapter, I find infinite moments of gratitude. Every chapter contributes to the mosaic of my existence, teaching me resilience, love, and growth.

Amidst these changes, I remind myself that it’s okay to laugh, and it’s equally okay to cry. With each transition, there’s a grieving of stages gone by, but also the anticipation of new stages taking over.

And just as the sun sets, we learn to embrace change and find beauty in life's transitions for they all contribute to the masterpiece of a life well-lived ♥️

18/08/2023

💚 Hey amazing kidney donors, let's chat about nourishment! Just like you've given the gift of life through kidney donation, you can continue making a positive impact on your own health by nourishing your body right.

🍏🥕 Nourishment isn't about strict diets or counting calories – it's about treating your body with respect and providing it with the nutrients it needs. Think of it as a way of saying 'thank you' to your incredible body that has done something truly remarkable.

🥗🍇 Load up on colorful fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains. They're like the superhero team that supports your energy levels, keeps your immune system in check, and helps your body recover smoothly.

🚰💧 Don't forget the power of hydration! Water is your body's best friend. It helps your kidneys do their job efficiently, especially now that you've been part of this extraordinary journey.

🌞🏋️‍♀️ Keep moving! Regular exercise complements your nourishing efforts. It boosts your mood, supports your overall health, and enhances your vitality.

🌟💪 Just as you've shown incredible strength through your selfless act, continue to show love and strength to your body by choosing nutrient-packed foods.

You're a modern day real-life superhero (as my surgeon would say), let your nourishing choices be your cape! 🦸‍♂️🥗
Not sure where to start? I can help, DM me!

17/08/2023

Creating cherished memories at the Indiana State Fair with my granddaughter for the very first time! 🎡🌽🧀

From relishing the deliciousness of fried cheese and corn on the cob to indulging in the sweet delight of fried Oreos and Reese's cups, every moment was filled with joy and laughter. ❤️👧

Embracing the vibrant atmosphere and sharing the excitement of this experience with the next generation. 🎉🥰