From Top to Bottom: The Oral-Systemic Connection and a Functional Nutrition Approach to Microbial Imbalances

Presented by: Andrea Nakayama, FNLP, MSN, CNE, CNC, CHHC

Original Presentation Date: September 17, 2017

Course Description: 

We now know that gut microbial imbalances are linked to many inflammatory chronic disease states. There’s more evidence that diet and lifestyle impact the gut microbiome. Yet, the oral microbiome not only influences inflammation but is a mirror of conditions throughout the rest of the body. Join Functional Medicine Nutritionist Andrea Nakayama for a discussion of how we can best “back it up,” understand and educate our patients about these critical connections, and ultimately address imbalances in the microbiota through nutrition, diet, and lifestyle modifications, as well as oral health practices, for optimal health outcomes.

Learning Objectives:

• Explain the significance of functional medicine and nutrition, emphasizing the oral-health connection and elucidating the reasons behind its importance in overall health management.
• Analyze and synthesize comprehensive knowledge concerning digestive health and microbial balance, creating a holistic understanding from a 'top to bottom' perspective.
• Demonstrate the ability to educate clients effectively, introducing pivotal practices highlighting the oral-systemic connection.
• Evaluate the impact of these practices on overall health and well-being, assessing their effectiveness in honoring this vital connection between oral health and systemic wellness.

Speaker Bio:

Andrea Nakayama, FNLP, MSN, CNE, CNC, CHHC, is a leading functional nutritionist and educator globally recognized for empowering thousands of clients, students, and practitioners to reclaim control over their health. As the founder of Holistic Nutrition Lab, an online school for practitioners, Andrea focuses on teaching the science and art of functional nutrition, emphasizing the intersection of food and physiology. Motivated by personal loss, her passion for food as personalized medicine led her to become a patient advocate and clinician. Andrea and her team specialize in addressing chronic ailments often overlooked by other providers, collaborating with world-renowned doctors on challenging clinical cases within her clinic. Her expertise in simplifying complex concepts has earned her recognition, including the 2015 Impact Award and the 2016 Service Award from the National Association of Nutrition Professionals. Andrea is a sought-after educator known for making intricate topics easily understandable, showcased in various online conferences and platforms like Replenish PDX, Holistic Nutrition Lab, and the Hashimoto Institute.