In this episode, Dr. Maame-Mensima Horne (Naturopathic Doctor and Clinical Hypnotherapist) and Health Empowerment Coach Joanna Mickel explore how food choices shape hormones, chronic disease risk, and mental well-being. Through both modern research and traditional wisdom, they unpack how nutrition serves as a foundation for neurotransmitter balance, immune resilience, and long-term vitality.
Together, they discuss how life stages, stress, and environmental exposures influence nutritional needs, and examine fascinating examples from traditional diets and human adaptation to nutrient deficiencies. The conversation highlights the role of key micronutrients—such as iron, zinc, selenium, iodine, and vitamin D—in thyroid function, brain health, and immune regulation, as well as the growing impact of pesticides, herbicides, and ultra-processed foods on nutrient absorption and chronic illness.
They also bridge perspectives from naturopathic medicine and Chinese medicine, exploring the gut-brain axis, blood sugar regulation, and the energetic balance of yin and yang through food. Topics include hydration strategies, herbal infusions, and electrolytes; the effects of artificial dyes and sweeteners on brain health and hyperactivity; and how traditional food systems contrast with today’s fast, industrialized diets.
Throughout the episode, they emphasize mindful eating, the relationship we have with food, and how nourishment extends beyond calories to include awareness, balance, and intention.
Tune in for a grounded, integrative conversation that reframes nutrition as a powerful tool for hormonal harmony, mental clarity, and whole-body healing.
To learn more about Dr. Maame-Mensima Horne, visit her website for Heart Body Glow: https://heartbodyglow.com/
To learn more about Joanna Mickel, Health Empowerment Coach, visit: www.healthempowermentcenter.com