In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher Goetz sits down with Dr. Kristin Spark, a passionate naturopathic doctor and the founder of Verdure Wellness Clinic in Uptown Waterloo. Dr. Kristin shares her journey from working in multiple clinics to founding her own business, the challenges she has overcome, and the joy she finds in helping her patients transform their health. The conversation touches on a variety of important health topics, including women's hormonal health, gut health, and holistic approaches to wellness.

In this episode you will hear:

• [01:52] Dr. Kristin’s journey of starting Verdure Wellness Clinic after facing clinic closures, how she pivoted to business ownership, and the importance of surrounding herself with a supportive team.
• [06:30] The challenges faced when starting the clinic, including navigating commercial real estate and the pandemic.
• [10:40] Dr. Kristin’s focus on women’s health, specifically hormonal concerns like PMS, menopause, and postpartum issues.
• [14:31] Hormonal health tips for women, including myths surrounding cortisol, exercise, and dietary recommendations.
• [20:37] Key dietary recommendations for women, including high-protein, high-fiber foods and the Mediterranean diet.
• [27:19] Dr. Kristin’s approach to gut health, bloating, and the importance of the microbiome for overall well-being.
• [40:16] Discussion on weight loss diets, including Dr. Kristin’s take on keto, and the growing trend of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic.
• [50:17] A personal discussion about Dr. Kristin’s work with Cher on her health journey, addressing blood sugar levels and weight loss resistance.
• [54:19] Insights into mental health support, including natural remedies for anxiety and depression, especially during postpartum.
• [55:30] Dr. Kristin’s approach to mental health as a naturopath and the importance of taking a holistic view of health.
• [58:05] The lack of postpartum care and how Dr. Kristin helps women navigate the challenging postpartum period.
• [01:02:08] Dr. Kristin’s vision for the future, including offering more affordable group programming to make naturopathic care accessible to more people.
• [01:04:33] Dr. Kristin’s love for Waterloo Region, highlighting local businesses such as Cyclone Spin Studio, Brightside Yoga, Fiddleheads, and Café Pyrus.

Visit the link in Dr. Kristin’s Instagram bio to download her free Gut Health Guide & 7-Day Reset Challenge

Connect with Dr. Kristin:

Instagram: @drkristinspark

Website: verdurewellnessclinic.com

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: [email protected]

Thank you to our Sponsors:

• Amanda Walczyk, Mortgage Agent | Level 2 license at Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd, FSRA #12360
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent
Contact: [email protected]
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co