In this episode of Intermittent Fasting Stories, Gin talks to virtual chef and health coach Courtney Contos.

Fast. Feast. Repeat. The Comprehensive Guide to Delay, Don't Deny Intermittent Fasting: Now available everywhere books are sold! Get your copy through your favorite bookstore by following this link:http://www.ginstephens.com/get-the-books.html

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Courtney is from Miami. For twelve years, Courtney suffered from Rheumatoid Arthritis. RA is an auto-immune condition which causes joint inflammation, pain and stiffness. She had difficulty walking and multiple surgeries: both of her wrists were "auto-fused," and one of her feet had to be completely rebuilt with seven auto-fusions. "I didn't know what it felt like to feel good anymore." She realizes now that her body was simply out of balance.

Courtney is under the care of a Functional Medicine Doctor. Courtney explains that working with a functional medicine doctor "empowers a person" because it is individualized and patient-centered healthcare. It goes beyond a patient's symptoms, focusing on areas where they may be deficient. A functional medicine doctor will then look at what supplements are needed, and what foods are best for your body. Courtney remarks, "Food is not energy. It is information." She describes her experience with her doctor as "a beautiful journey." To find an functional medicine doctor in your area, go to: IFM.org.

Once Courtney began intermittent fasting in April 2018, her RA symptoms began to go away. She does both 16:8 and 18:6 IF protocols, and has lost 38 pounds. Fasting has freed up her time, now that she is no longer focused on eating all day.

The advice she'd give a new IFer: "Results don't happen overnight, or even in a week. Trust the process. The results are going to be amazing."

To find Courtney Contos, go to: ccontos.com

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