Vitamin B3 (Niacin) & the Paleo Diet deficiency supplement nutrition-min

Vitamin B3 (Niacin) in the Paleo Diet

An expert at aiding your body to convert carbohydrates into energy, Vitamin B3 or Niacin plays an important role in the metabolic functions. Good digestive function, detoxification processes, and the creation of hormones – all of these have to say a word of thanks to Niacin as well.

But how do you know if you’re missing this important vitamin in your paleo diet? Niacin deficiency can be characterised by digestive problems, skin infections, lack of appetite, and generalised weakness or muscular weakness. In addition, you might be prone to Niacin deficiency if you’ve suffered from stress, physical trauma, long-term fever, and excessive consumption of alcohol.

It’s quite impressive how Vitamin B3 can benefit your body in adequate amounts. Just look at this list of medical conditions that it may help to prevent or treat – Alzheimer’s, depression, diabetes, gout, hallucinations, headaches, hyperactivity, hypothyroidism, insomnia, inflammatory bowel disease, menstrual pains, multiple sclerosis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, pellagra, smelling and taste disorders, vertigo. Let’s focus on Alzheimer’s for a moment – in a research from 2004 it was found that elderly subjects who consumed most Niacin in their food were 70% less likely to have Alzheimer’s than those who consumed the least. What an illustration for the power of food in achieving good health until old age. This is what makes the Paleo Diet so fantastic – it shows that delicious whole foods can be the best medicine for your body.

How much Vitamin B3 should you consume?

The recommended daily amount is 20mg, and there are no toxicity symptoms reported to be connected to Niacin consumption from whole foods. However, a tolerable upper limit from supplements is set at 35mg.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin) and the Paleo Diet – Deficiency, Supplementation, and Nutrition

Which foods can you get Niacin from?

Now, your body can produce some Vitamin B3 from an amino acid called tryptophan, but this is really inefficient. The Paleo Diet is a great source for adequate Niacin consumption, since it includes a variety of natural food sources. Here are some of the best!

  1. Liver – If you’re looking for a “comprehensive health supplement”, liver is one of the best, and Vitamin B3 is no exception here. A portion of 100g of lamb liver will provide you with 83% of your daily Niacin need, with other animal livers providing just slightly less than that.
  2. Chicken – Lean meats are a great source of Niacin, with chicken at the top of the list. A serving of 100g provides you with 68.6% of your daily need.
  3. Tuna – A protein-rich portion of tuna is another good source for Vitamin B3, as a 100g portion covers 15.7% of your daily intake need. Tuna salad, anyone?
  4. Turkey – Another lean meat, turkey provides 37% of your daily need of Vitamin B3 in a serving size of 100g. If you’re used to preparing a lot of chicken, try turkey on some of the nights instead for a slightly different micronutrient profile.
  5. Venison – Yes, Vitamin B3 seems to be all about lean meats… Venison provides you with 37.1% of your daily Niacin need in a 100g portion. Might be time to ring up that hunter you know!
  6. Halibut – This fish that makes for a lovely dinner along with some veggies provides 35.6% of your daily Niacin need in 100g.
  7. Shiitake mushrooms – These mushrooms that provide a rich taste for any dish cover 19.4% of your daily Niacin need in a 100g portion. That’s a good enough reason to search for some Asian recipes for your next dinner!
  8. Sweet potatoes – Not just a source of carbs to fuel your activity, sweet potatoes also provide some great nutrition. One cup of baked sweet potatoes will cover 8.5% of your daily need of Vitamin B3, so feel free to add them to your preferred piece of meat or fish.

What else should you know about Vitamin B3 consumption?

One of the most stable water-soluble vitamins, Niacin is only minimally influenced by air, light, and heat, and thus you shouldn’t be worried about losing the vitamin B3 content of the food you are cooking or storing.

So, what do you think? Are you planning a meaty (or fishy) Niacin-rich dinner already? Share your thoughts about this vitamin in the comments!

Niacin and Cardiovascular Health

Vitamin B3 plays a particularly noteworthy role in supporting cardiovascular health. Research has shown that niacin can help increase HDL (the “good” cholesterol) and lower LDL (the “bad” cholesterol), as well as triglycerides. This makes it especially important for those aiming to reduce their risk of heart disease through dietary changes.

While most clinical studies have used high doses of niacin supplements to achieve these effects, the emphasis in the Paleo world is on prevention through whole food nutrition. By regularly incorporating niacin-rich animal proteins and whole food fats, you support your heart naturally – without relying on pharmaceutical interventions.

In fact, some practitioners of ancestral health believe that Vitamin B3 was one of the unsung heroes of traditional diets that kept historical populations heart-healthy long before statins were invented.

Vitamin B3 and Detoxification Pathways

Niacin is also essential for the body’s natural detoxification pathways, particularly in the liver. It helps produce NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), a critical coenzyme involved in phase I and phase II liver detoxification. These processes are how your body breaks down toxins, hormones, and waste products – all vital in maintaining homeostasis.

Supporting these pathways naturally, via niacin-rich foods, can help reduce the toxic burden on the liver and enhance your overall resilience. This is particularly relevant in the modern world where exposure to endocrine disruptors, pesticides, and pollutants is difficult to avoid.

If you’ve been feeling sluggish, foggy-headed, or just “off,” your detox pathways may be under strain – and ensuring adequate B3 intake could be part of the solution.

Niacin’s Role in Brain and Cognitive Function

Niacin’s role in neurological health is another area of growing interest. Alongside its involvement in energy production and circulation, niacin contributes to the repair of DNA and nerve cell signalling. Several studies suggest that insufficient niacin levels may contribute to cognitive decline, memory loss, and mood disorders like anxiety and depression.

While B vitamins often work synergistically, niacin is particularly beneficial in maintaining brain function and supporting neuroplasticity – the brain's ability to adapt and form new neural connections. This is a crucial function for everyone, especially as we age.

A nutrient-dense Paleo diet that includes organ meats, seafood, nuts, and root vegetables gives your brain the raw materials it needs to function optimally – without needing to rely on nootropics or synthetic supplements.

Signs You Might Be Getting Too Little Niacin

Beyond the classic signs of deficiency mentioned earlier (fatigue, digestive issues, skin inflammation), here are some other subtle symptoms that may point to a suboptimal intake of Vitamin B3:

  • Difficulty concentrating or persistent brain fog
  • Increased sensitivity to sunlight
  • Low mood or depressive symptoms
  • Dry or cracked skin, particularly on hands and lips
  • Tingling or burning sensation in the feet

If you’re eating a variety of whole Paleo foods, especially those from animal sources, it’s unlikely that you’ll be truly deficient. However, those who follow a low-meat or overly restricted Paleo approach, or are recovering from digestive issues, may want to monitor their intake more closely.

Can You Get Too Much Niacin?

As noted earlier, niacin from whole foods is safe – and no upper limit has been set for naturally occurring B3 in food. However, high-dose niacin supplements (especially the “flush” versions) can cause unpleasant side effects like skin flushing, dizziness, or nausea in some people.

If you’re considering niacin supplements for specific health reasons (such as cholesterol management), always consult a qualified practitioner. For most people, meeting needs through diet is not only safer but more sustainable.

Paleo Tips for Boosting Your B3 Naturally

Looking to boost your Vitamin B3 intake without supplements? Here are some simple Paleo-friendly strategies:

  • Rotate your meats: Don’t rely on just chicken or beef. Include turkey, lamb, venison, and wild-caught fish for variety and a broader micronutrient profile.
  • Embrace organ meats: Liver is a true superfood. If you’re not a fan of the flavour, try blending it into patties or making a smooth pâté.
  • Include mushrooms regularly: Shiitake and cremini mushrooms are great in stir-fries, stews, or oven-roasted with garlic and olive oil.
  • Serve B3 with healthy fats: Fat-soluble vitamins and fat-rich meals enhance the bioavailability of many nutrients, including those in B-vitamin–dense meats.

In Summary

Vitamin B3 (Niacin) may not get as much attention as Vitamin D or Magnesium in the mainstream nutrition world, but it’s absolutely essential for maintaining energy, hormone production, detoxification, mental clarity, and long-term health. Fortunately, following a varied Paleo diet that includes lean proteins, organ meats, seafood, and colourful vegetables makes it easy to get enough – naturally.

So next time you’re planning your weekly meals, why not make it a goal to include one or two high-niacin dishes? Your metabolism, mind, and mitochondria will thank you.

🥩 Have you noticed a difference in your energy or mood when eating more organ meats or high-B3 foods? Share your story in the comments – I’d love to hear how real food is supporting your real health journey.

Seared Venison Loin with Allspice, Thyme and Minted Pea Mash paleo dinner recipe beef grass-fed-min

How to Make Seared Venison Loin with Allspice, Thyme and Minted Pea Mash

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Paleo Diet Primal Gut Health Flora Healthy Probiotics-min

How Is Your Gut Health?

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After the stress and perhaps over indulgences of the festive season – how is your gut health?

Our ancestors were surrounded by dirt – and certainly won’t have washed their hands in antibacterial soap before touching everything! Today, everyone is terrified of germs and dirt. Children aren't allowed to get dirty – people can’t even make food without wearing those horrible blue plastic gloves – yuck!

Paleo Diet Primal Gut Health Flora Healthy Probiotics-min

So many factors in our modern lifestyle are stacked against maintaining good gut flora. The antibiotics given out by so many doctors kill off most bacteria (good as well as bad). Stress hormones also do a good job of killing of gut flora. It’s probably therefore little wonder that so many of us don’t have good gut health.

Having good gut health promotes a good immune system, which is why some people never seem to catch the germs going around the office. Healthy gut bacteria is also essential in proper, good digestion. Healthy gut flora enable you to properly absorb the nutrients in the food you’re eating (after all, we are what we absorb, rather than what we eat)

Whilst yoghurts with live cultures have become extremely popular as a method of improving gut health, they don’t appear to be the best solution, given that many people don’t tolerate dairy – and of course the pasteurisation has an significant impact on the amount of live culture left in the finished product. A lot of these yoghurts also have a lot of sugar added.

One of the better options to improve your gut health is taking probiotic supplements. When you compare the ingredients, you’ll notice huge variations between the different brands. For this reason, I like Primal Flora, as it’s been created with an ancestral diet in mind.
Primal Flora

More Ways to Support Your Gut – Naturally

While probiotics often steal the spotlight when it comes to gut health, there’s a whole ecosystem of strategies that can help you nurture your microbiome naturally. A healthy gut isn’t just about what supplements you take — it’s also about the food you eat, the lifestyle choices you make, and even the timing of your meals.

Fermented Foods: The Forgotten Gut Superstars

Before refrigeration, our ancestors preserved foods through fermentation — and unknowingly promoted excellent gut health in the process. Incorporating traditional fermented foods into your daily routine is a simple and delicious way to encourage microbial diversity. Think sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, kefir (non-dairy versions are available), and naturally fermented pickles (without vinegar).

Fermented vegetables are easy to make at home with just salt, water, and patience. Even a tablespoon a day can provide trillions of beneficial bacteria. If you’re unsure where to start, try adding a spoon of sauerkraut to your dinner plate or sipping on a small glass of kombucha between meals.

Feed Your Flora: Prebiotic-Rich Foods

It’s not just about adding bacteria — it’s about feeding them, too. Prebiotics are the indigestible fibres that act as food for your good gut bugs. Foods like garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, green bananas, and cooked-and-cooled potatoes are natural prebiotics that can enhance the growth of friendly bacteria in your gut.

By pairing these with fermented foods, you’re effectively creating a thriving environment for your microbiome. This combo — probiotics plus prebiotics — is often referred to as synbiotic support and is a fantastic way to boost gut resilience over time.

The Gut-Brain Connection: Don’t Forget the Stress Factor

Chronic stress is one of the biggest saboteurs of gut health. Cortisol and adrenaline may serve us well in short bursts, but ongoing stress alters the permeability of the gut lining and can lead to what’s commonly referred to as ‘leaky gut’. This makes it easier for toxins and undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation and immune dysfunction.

Managing stress isn’t just about relaxation — it’s about consistency. Try building in daily habits like breathing exercises, short meditations, time in nature, or gentle movement like walking or stretching. Even five minutes of mindfulness a day can help regulate your nervous system and, by extension, your digestion.

Why Quality Sleep Matters

There’s growing evidence that the microbiome follows a circadian rhythm — meaning your gut bacteria respond to your sleep and wake cycles. Poor sleep can disrupt this rhythm, reducing bacterial diversity and impairing digestion. Prioritising seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night gives your gut a chance to rest and repair.

If you’re struggling with sleep, consider your evening routine. Avoid screens an hour before bed, try magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens at dinner, and create a wind-down ritual that helps cue your body for rest. Your gut will thank you.

Exercise for Your Digestive Tract

Regular, moderate physical activity improves digestion by stimulating intestinal contractions and reducing bloating. It also increases microbial diversity, with some studies showing athletes have greater gut diversity than sedentary individuals. But don’t worry — you don’t have to run marathons. A brisk walk, yoga session, or some bodyweight exercises at home can all contribute to better gut health.

What matters is consistency. Even moving for 20 to 30 minutes a day can make a big difference, especially after meals to aid digestion and reduce sluggishness.

Hydration and the Microbiome

Water may seem like a minor factor, but dehydration can slow digestion and reduce the production of mucus in the gut lining — a key defence mechanism. Staying properly hydrated helps flush toxins, supports bowel regularity, and creates an optimal environment for microbial balance.

Filtered water is best, especially if your local tap water contains chlorine or fluoride, both of which can impact gut flora. Herbal teas like peppermint, ginger, or fennel are great options for soothing the digestive tract while staying hydrated.

Consider the Bigger Picture: Environmental Factors

While diet and lifestyle play a huge role in gut health, it’s also worth considering your broader environment. Are you spending enough time outdoors? Are you exposed to nature, animals, and soil? Our microbiome is shaped by the world around us — not just what we put in our mouths.

Try to incorporate ‘green time’ into your week. Walk barefoot in the garden, plant herbs in a pot on your balcony, or let your kids play in the dirt. These interactions expose us to microbes that may help re-establish balance in our internal ecosystem, especially after illness or antibiotic use.

Rethinking Cleanliness

While hand hygiene is important, excessive sterilisation can hinder the healthy exchange of microbes. Consider switching to natural cleaning products at home and avoiding antibacterial hand sanitisers unless necessary. Letting kids play in the mud or helping out in the veggie patch is not just fun — it’s vital for developing a diverse gut microbiome from a young age.

Listen to Your Gut

If you find yourself regularly bloated, sluggish, or getting sick more often than usual, your gut could be trying to send you a message. Rather than masking symptoms, consider keeping a simple food and mood journal. Track what you eat, how you feel afterwards, and any changes in energy or digestion. Over time, this can reveal patterns that help you identify food intolerances or triggers that need addressing.

The Takeaway: Trust Your Instincts and Go Ancestral

Modern life has made it harder to maintain a naturally balanced gut — but it hasn’t made it impossible. By leaning into a lifestyle that reflects ancestral habits — such as eating real food, managing stress, moving daily, and connecting with nature — you can dramatically improve your gut health without needing to micromanage every bite.

Whether it’s a spoon of sauerkraut with dinner, a barefoot walk on the grass, or taking five deep breaths before you eat, every small habit helps support the microbial army working tirelessly inside you. And the ripple effect? Better digestion, improved immunity, steadier moods, and perhaps most importantly — a sense of vitality that starts from within.

What do you do to improve your gut health? Do you take probiotics? Please share, in the comments below!

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Grilled Monkfish & Sweet Potato Skewers (Paleo BBQ)

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Are you an insect magnet Paleo Diet Primal natural insect repellent bugs Mosquito bites spray DEET-min

Are You an Insect Magnet? Try This Natural Repellent

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I'm on holiday at the moment – and with holidays in the sun, the insects seem to come out. I hate using an artificial insect repellent and covering myself in chemicals. But I also hate being covered in Mosquito bites!

Fortunately, there are some natural alternatives to keep the bugs at bay. Below is a recipe I've experimented with for a chemical free insect repellent, that you can make at home.

This spray on insect repellent works well with vitamin E as the vitamin E is nourishing and protecting, and is good for skin that can become thirsty and dry during the summer heat.

Are you an insect magnet Paleo Diet Primal natural insect repellent bugs Mosquito bites spray DEET-min

Natural insect repellent recipe

Ingredients:

  • 10 – 20 drops of citronella essential oil
  • 10 – 20 drops of lemon essential oil
  • 10 – 20 drops of lavender essential oil
  • 5 mls of carrier oil. Choose from Wheat germ, Vitamin E, avocado, calendula, borage or apricot kernel.
  • One small spray bottle or jar for storing the mix.

Add five mls of your chosen carrier oil to the storage jar and then add the oils. The more oils added, the stronger the scent will be. Screw up the lid and shake well to mix. The blend can be massaged onto the skin when needed. If the oil mix is too greasy, then add the oils to a base of distilled witch hazel – you’ll need 3-5 teaspoons.

An alternative way of applying the mix would be too melt 10gs (0.35oz) of Shea butter in a pan and stir in the oils. Once the mix has set and cooled it can be massaged onto the skin in a solid bar form.

The essential oils can also be used individually or alternatively tea tree oil can also be used on its own or in combination with any of the other essential oils listed. However, the scent of tea tree can be rather strong so may not be suited to everyone.

More Natural Ways to Repel Insects on Holiday

Insect bites can turn a relaxing getaway into a frustrating experience, especially if you’re someone who always seems to be the mosquitoes' favourite. Thankfully, nature offers plenty of options to keep bugs at bay without exposing your skin to synthetic chemicals. Beyond homemade sprays, there are many other natural approaches you can experiment with to find what works best for your body and your environment.

Dress Strategically to Avoid Bites

One of the simplest but most effective tactics is your choice of clothing. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colours and tight-fitting clothes. When spending time outdoors in the evening, opt for light-coloured, loose-fitting garments that cover your arms and legs. Fabrics like linen and cotton are ideal in hot climates as they allow your skin to breathe while offering physical protection from bites.

In areas with particularly high mosquito populations, consider wearing clothing treated with permethrin — a natural insecticide derived from chrysanthemums. You can also buy untreated clothing and spray it with a diluted natural insect-repellent mix to gain similar protection.

Essential Oils to Add to Your Travel Kit

In addition to the recipe above, there are other essential oils worth considering as natural bug deterrents. These include:

  • Eucalyptus (especially lemon eucalyptus): Recognised by the CDC as an effective natural repellent.
  • Patchouli: Not only repels mosquitoes but may also deter lice and flies.
  • Geranium: Has a floral scent and is particularly good at repelling ticks.
  • Basil: Repels mosquitoes and is gentle on the skin.

When using essential oils on your skin, always dilute them in a carrier oil like the ones listed in your recipe. You can rotate oils based on availability and scent preference.

Natural Scents That Mosquitoes Hate

While humans may enjoy floral or citrus scents, mosquitoes do not. Planting or keeping potted herbs and flowers with mosquito-repelling properties near your accommodation can help create a bite-free zone. Some excellent choices include:

  • Citronella grass: This is the source of citronella oil and works well planted in garden beds or pots.
  • Lavender: Not only deters insects but also promotes relaxation — perfect for a restful holiday.
  • Mint and peppermint: These strong-smelling herbs are disliked by bugs and can be rubbed directly on the skin (in moderation) as a quick deterrent.

Even scattering dried herbs on outdoor tables or placing sachets near sleeping areas can make a difference.

Food and Supplements That Might Help

Some anecdotal evidence suggests that what you eat can influence your attractiveness to mosquitoes. While scientific studies on this are limited, many people report fewer bites after increasing their intake of:

  • Garlic: The sulphur compounds released through your skin may deter mosquitoes.
  • Apple cider vinegar: A spoonful a day may alter your body odour enough to make you less appealing to bugs.
  • Vitamin B1 (thiamine): Some believe it changes the scent your body gives off, making it less attractive to biting insects. It’s worth a try, especially if you’re prone to being bitten often.

While the effectiveness may vary from person to person, none of these pose a risk — and they may support your overall health too.

At-Home Solutions for Soothing Bug Bites

If the bugs manage to get through your defences, there are several natural remedies that can ease the itch and help reduce inflammation:

  • Aloe vera gel: Naturally cooling and anti-inflammatory, it’s ideal for sunburn and insect bites alike.
  • Baking soda paste: Mix a small amount with water and apply directly to the bite to relieve itching.
  • Raw honey: Apply a dab to the bite — its antibacterial properties help prevent infection and soothe irritation.
  • Ice: Reduces swelling and numbs the itch temporarily.

These simple remedies are especially useful when you’re travelling and want to avoid pharmaceutical creams or antihistamines.

Indoor Protection Without Harsh Chemicals

If you’re staying somewhere without screens or air conditioning, indoor insect control becomes even more important. Here are some natural ideas to protect your space:

  • Use a mosquito net: This remains one of the most effective forms of protection during sleep, especially in tropical areas.
  • Burn natural incense: Sticks made with citronella, lemongrass, or sandalwood help keep bugs away while adding a relaxing scent.
  • Fans: Mosquitoes are weak fliers. A fan pointed towards your bed or seating area can create enough airflow to keep them from landing on you.
  • DIY essential oil diffuser: Add a few drops of lavender, eucalyptus, or citronella oil to water in a diffuser to keep bugs at bay through the night.

What to Avoid

Not all “natural” products are safe. Here are a few cautions to keep in mind:

  • Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to your skin. They can cause irritation or sensitisation over time.
  • Test any new product on a small patch of skin first. Even natural ingredients can cause allergic reactions in some people.
  • Use caution with oils like citrus and bergamot in the sun. These can increase your skin’s sensitivity to UV rays and lead to burns or discolouration.

Finding What Works for You

Everyone’s body chemistry is different, which is why some people never get bitten while others seem like a mosquito buffet. The best way to find the right natural insect repellent is to try a few methods and see what your skin — and the bugs — respond to.

If you’re travelling soon, try packing a few different oils, a small spray bottle, and a carrier oil so you can experiment on the go. You might find that lavender works wonders for you, or that citronella combined with eucalyptus is your best defence. And if you’ve got a tried-and-tested method or clever natural solution, be sure to share it — fellow bite-prone readers will thank you!

NB: Pregnant women should take medical advice before using essential oils.

Do you have a tip for keep bugs at bay? Do mosquitoes seem to choose you over everyone else? Share your tips and stories below!

Raw Kale Salad with Goji Berries, Sprouts and Pumpkin Seeds paleo primal lunch dinner-min

How to Make a Raw Kale Salad with Goji Berries, Sprouts and Pumpkin Seeds

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Time to get healthy paleo rock bottom over indulged Christmas lose weight-min

Is It Time to Get Healthy?

Post Christmas is a popular time to readdress your goals. Perhaps you got a bit carried away with the festivities and have realised you are carrying more weight than is healthy? Or perhaps you have a few health issues that you want to concentrate on, and resolve once and for all? Now is the perfect time to get healthy!

It starts with food

Diet is a great place to start. Instead of waiting until all if the festive food has been eaten (we've all done that!) why not just throw it away – or give it to someone who will appreciate it? Your health will thank you!
Once you've cleared out all the not-exactly-paleo food – it's time for the good food!  Make a list, plan out your meals for the next week and go and get some good wholesome paleo foods.
I like to make up big batches of dishes like soups and curries. It's great to freeze them in small portions, making it super easy to get healthy meals, quickly.
Time to get healthy paleo rock bottom over indulged Christmas lose weight-min

What about lifestyle?

Lifestyle is a huge health factor! In fact, I'd argue that even with a perfect diet unless you have got the lifestyle factors right it's almost impossible to get healthy.

How's your sleep?

Have late nights and difficult mornings started to creep in? Are you getting enough sleep? This is a great time to work out how much sleep your body needs – and how you're going to get it.

Connection

Another huge factor – do you have enough time in your life for your friends and family? Do you have enough time to relax and just be? If not – what can you change to create more balance in your life?

Get healthy with fitness

This is another important factor. Do you lift heart things and get in the occasional sprint? Being fitter seems to go hand in hand with overall health and well being. You don't have to start big – try walking more.

Start the Year with Clear Intentions

The post-Christmas period is the perfect opportunity to realign your goals and prioritise your wellbeing. With the distractions of the holidays behind you, this is a valuable time to reflect, reset, and commit to nourishing habits that will carry you through the months ahead. Whether you're starting from scratch or getting back on track, taking the first step is often the hardest — but also the most empowering.

Write Down Your Why

Before diving into a new regime, take a few moments to write down your reasons for wanting to make a change. Is it to improve your energy levels? Lose weight for good? Manage stress? Reduce chronic pain? Increase confidence? Being clear about your ‘why' will keep you anchored when motivation inevitably fluctuates. Stick that reason somewhere visible — your fridge door, bathroom mirror, or inside your journal — and refer to it often.

Set Achievable Milestones

Rather than jumping straight into an extreme overhaul, aim for realistic changes that feel doable. For instance:

  • Commit to eating a home-cooked paleo meal five days this week
  • Switch your afternoon snack from processed food to fruit and nuts
  • Add one extra hour of sleep by adjusting your evening routine
  • Replace one coffee a day with water or herbal tea

These micro-goals can create big results when they become regular habits. Once you’re consistent with one change, build on it. Progress is far more sustainable this way.

Build a Supportive Environment

Your surroundings can either support or sabotage your health goals. Take a look at your kitchen, home, and digital environment. Do they make it easy to stay on track?

  • Remove tempting foods that don't align with your goals
  • Stock the fridge: Have chopped veggies, boiled eggs, and cooked proteins ready to go
  • Use digital tools: Set up calendar reminders for workouts, meal prep, or even just to stretch
  • Limit distractions: Unfollow social media accounts that make you feel pressured or guilty, and instead follow ones that inspire and educate you

Create a Morning Routine That Works for You

How you start your day sets the tone for the rest of it. Creating a morning routine can give you structure and intention. This doesn’t have to mean a 5am workout or an hour of meditation. It could be as simple as drinking a glass of water, stepping outside for a few deep breaths, or doing five minutes of gentle stretching. The key is consistency and creating rituals that serve you.

Focus on Gut Health and Digestion

Your digestive system is at the core of your health, both physically and mentally. If you've over-indulged on rich or sugary foods over the holidays, you may notice bloating, fatigue, or even mood swings. Now is the time to support your gut with nourishing, fibre-rich foods like:

  • Bone broth
  • Fermented vegetables (like sauerkraut and kimchi)
  • Leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables
  • Prebiotic foods like garlic, leeks, and onions

Avoiding inflammatory triggers such as gluten, seed oils, and processed sugar can also help reset your digestive health. Listen to your body and note how it responds when you remove certain foods and reintroduce others.

Hydration Is a Non-Negotiable

After a festive season filled with indulgence and possibly more alcohol than usual, many people find themselves dehydrated. This impacts everything from your metabolism and digestion to your skin and energy levels. Start the day with a big glass of water, and aim to drink regularly throughout the day. Herbal teas, coconut water, and water-rich foods like cucumber and watermelon can also help with hydration.

Movement Should Be Enjoyable

If the thought of going to a gym fills you with dread, don't do it! Find a way to move your body that actually brings you joy. This could be dancing to your favourite music in the lounge room, swimming at the beach, or hiking with a friend. The best type of exercise is the one you’ll actually stick to. Even ten minutes a day is a great place to start.

Reduce Stress Where You Can

Chronic stress is one of the biggest roadblocks to good health. It affects your sleep, weight, digestion, immune system, and even your ability to make decisions. While some stress is unavoidable, learning to manage it better is crucial. Some simple ideas include:

  • Daily walks in nature
  • Breathing exercises or short meditations
  • Journaling at the end of the day to clear your mind
  • Creating a wind-down ritual before bed

Even something as small as lighting a candle and sipping herbal tea can signal to your nervous system that it’s time to slow down.

Reflect, Don’t Punish

Lastly, it’s important to approach this new chapter with kindness. The goal isn’t to punish yourself for holiday indulgences or past choices, but to gently guide yourself back into alignment with the way you want to feel. Progress is not linear, and perfection is never the goal — consistency and compassion are. If you slip up, just begin again. No shame, no guilt, just a chance to learn what works better for you next time.

What Does Your Ideal Healthy Life Look Like?

Take a few minutes to visualise what your healthiest self would look like. How do you feel when you wake up? What’s your energy like throughout the day? What foods are you eating? What do your relationships and downtime look like? This mental image can help you stay on track when things get challenging. Whenever you feel lost or unmotivated, come back to that vision and remember what you're working towards.

You’ve Got This

This is your chance to create a version of your life that feels energising, sustainable, and true to who you are. You don’t need to be perfect — just committed to showing up for yourself, one small choice at a time.

I'd love to hear what your health focus is this season. Have you set any new intentions? What will your first steps be?