Flourishing Through Nutrition & Health: An Interview with Jordan Clapp

“One thing that does seem to be clear is that health and happiness are connected, more so than we’re often aware.”

— Bobby Duffy

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Today, I am thrilled to share the highlights from an insightful conversation with my friend and Certified Integrative Nutrition and Holistic Health Coach, Jordan Clapp. In this episode, we dive into the essential role that nutrition and health play in achieving a balanced and flourishing life. I highly recommend tuning into the entire conversation, but I’ve summarized the highlights below. 

A Journey to Flourish

As many of you know, my word of the year is "flourishing." This concept has permeated various aspects of my life, and one significant area of focus has been health. To explore this further, I invited Jordan to share her expertise on women's health, nutrition, and practical steps we can take to care for ourselves better.

Flourishing is about thriving in all areas of life, and health is a cornerstone of this journey. By prioritizing our well-being, we can enhance our energy levels, improve our mood, and better manage the demands of our daily lives. This year, I am committed to bringing you along on my journey to flourish, and I hope you find inspiration and practical advice in our conversation.

Meet Jordan Clapp

Jordan and I go way back—we grew up in the same small town in Illinois and attended the same high school. Now, she is not only a busy mom of three but also an Elegant Balance Academy student. Her journey is inspiring, and her insights are invaluable for anyone looking to improve their health and well-being.

As a Certified Integrative Nutrition and Holistic Health Coach, Jordan specializes in women's health, hormones, thyroid, and autoimmune conditions. She helps busy women live their best lives despite various challenges, focusing on sustainable and practical solutions that fit into their real lives. As a mom of three young children, she understands the importance of finding balance and making health a priority, even in the midst of a busy schedule.

The Connection Between Health and Work-Life Balance

Health and nutrition are integral to work-life balance. It's not about perfection but about finding a balance that works for you. Recognizing different seasons of life and adjusting our health habits accordingly is crucial. Whether it's focusing on nutrition, exercise, or sleep, these elements collectively contribute to our overall well-being.

Work-life balance is not a static state but an ongoing process that evolves with our changing needs and circumstances. For example, as a new mom, the focus might be on getting enough sleep and nourishing the body to support breastfeeding. In contrast, someone with older children might prioritize different aspects of health, such as regular exercise or stress management. The key is to be flexible and adapt our health habits to fit our current season of life.

Practical Steps for Better Health

Here are several practical tips, based on my conversation with Jordan, to help us flourish:

1. Start with What You Like: 

Instead of overhauling your entire diet, begin with foods you enjoy and make small, healthier tweaks. For example, if you love spaghetti, try serving it with a salad instead of garlic bread. This way, you can still enjoy your favorite meals while making them healthier.

Look at your current eating habits and find ways to enhance them. If you enjoy certain meals, think about how you can add more nutrients or make them more balanced. For instance, adding vegetables to your spaghetti sauce or choosing whole grain pasta can make a big difference without sacrificing taste.

2. Focus on Protein and Healthy Fats: 

Aim for about 100 grams of protein per day and incorporate healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and seeds. These nutrients are crucial for energy, metabolism, and overall health. Protein helps keep us full and energized, while healthy fats support brain function and hormone balance.

Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, while healthy fats are vital for brain health and hormone production. Start with a goal of 30 grams of protein per meal and incorporate healthy fats into each meal to keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day.

3. Stay Hydrated: 

Hydration is key. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body functioning optimally. Starting your day with a glass of water and continuing to drink water regularly helps stay ahead of dehydration.

Staying hydrated is especially important for busy women who might forget to drink water throughout the day. Carry a water bottle with you and set reminders to drink water regularly. Proper hydration supports digestion, energy levels, and overall health.

4. Create Sustainable Habits: 

Build habits that support your health goals. Consistency is more important than perfection. Small, sustainable changes can lead to significant improvements over time. Make these habits a part of your daily routine, so they become second nature.

Focus on creating habits that are realistic and sustainable. Instead of trying to make drastic changes all at once, start with small steps that you can maintain over the long term. For example, if you're not used to exercising regularly, start with short walks and gradually increase the duration and intensity. The goal is to build habits that fit into your lifestyle and support your overall well-being.

Overcoming Common Stumbling Blocks

Many of us struggle with diet culture and unrealistic expectations. Instead, we should be focusing on health and longevity rather than quick fixes. It's about feeling good and functioning well, not just hitting a number on the scale. Listening to our bodies and making adjustments as needed is crucial.

Diet culture has created unrealistic expectations and unhealthy relationships with food. Many women feel pressured to achieve a certain body image or weight, leading to restrictive diets and negative self-image. Instead, a holistic approach to health that prioritizes nourishment, self-care, and overall well-being is essential. Listen to your body, recognize your unique needs, and make choices that support your long-term health.

Looking Ahead

This conversation is just the beginning. We plan to dive deeper into specific health topics in future posts, exploring areas like hormone balance, stress management, and more. Stay tuned for part two of our discussion, where we'll delve into more advanced health strategies and how to address specific challenges.

In our next discussion, we will explore topics such as hormone balance, stress management, and how to address specific health challenges. Whether you're dealing with hormonal imbalances, chronic stress, or other health issues, these insights will help you find solutions that work for you.

Conclusion

I hope you found this interview with Jordan Clapp as enlightening as I did. Remember, flourishing is a journey, and taking intentional steps towards better health is a significant part of that journey. Let's continue to support each other in achieving a balanced and fulfilling life.

Connect with Jordan Clapp

If you want to learn more from Jordan, you can find her on her website and social media:

• Website: Organically Optimistic

• Instagram: @jordanclapphealthcoach

• Facebook: @jordanclapphealthcoach

Jordan has also created a special resource for our readers, which includes additional tips and over a dozen delicious recipes. Be sure to check it out and start implementing these healthy habits in your own life!