Hi, I'm Fatimah Fakhoury Registered Dietitian who's married to a quadriplegic and specializes in nutrition for spinal cord injury and paralysis. I'm on a mission to help people living with paralysis lose weight and regulate their bowels so they can live happier, healthier lives. On this podcast, I'll be talking to people just like you who are wheelchair users and successfully improving their health using the power of food. My guests and I will share personal stories, give useful nutrition information that's especially for paralysis, and answer your questions about healthy eating. Get ready to be inspired and motivated to improve your diet so you can feel your best!
In this episode, Fatimah explains how regulating your blood sugar helps lower cortisol, which allows you to have an easier bowel program. Cortisol is a stress hormone that affects virtually every organ in your body - including your gut! Highlights from the episode: Role of cortisol in the body Relationship between blood sugar and cortisol levels Practical ways to lower cortisol, starting today Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury:Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this episode, Fatimah chats with her friend Ernest Patti, aka @hotdogcartt on TikTok, about his experience as a disabled social media content creator. Ernest became a C5/6 incomplete quadriplegic at 18, just days before his freshman year of college was supposed to begin. About a year later, he started making TikToks about his life as a young quad, and soon enough, went viral with his videos. Highlights from the episode: Mental and physical health after spinal cord injury Connecting with the disability community on social media Body image and confidence as a full-time wheelchair user Normalizing aspects of life with a disability, such as having a caregiver Connect with Ernest Patti: TikTok: @hotdogcartt Instagram: @ernestpatti Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury:Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
Introducing a new series in the podcast: Ask Me Anything! On this first episode of the series, Fatimah responds to your questions submitted via social media. Questions from this debut episode in the serious include: “Is coffee bad for you?” “My physiatrist says most nutritionists don't know about SCI and overload you with vegetables that cause a catastrophe. What do you think about this?” “What's too many vegetables/fruits in a day or at one meal?” “I can tell you're naturally thin. Why do you eat so healthy? Seems like you never cheat.” Find out the answers to these interesting questions in this episode! Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In today's episode, Fatimah discusses the latest trend in weight loss: semalutide, also known as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, etc. Highlights from the episode: Who should take these meds? Special considerations for people with SCI + paralysis Common side effects that are especially problematic for neurogenic bowel Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
It's the first episode of 2023! This is one you don't want to miss if you're trying to spend less time on your bowel program. This audio is from the live masterclass that was held on January 31st, 2023. Highlights from the episode: Gut-healthy nutrition tips for paralysis Connection between gut and brain Can you really get your program down to 30 minutes? Losing inches off your belly without starving yourself Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury:Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
On this special episode of the podcast, Fatimah tells the story of one client's imperfect but REAL journey to losing 20 lb. in just 3 months. This audio is from the live masterclass that was held on November 21st, 2022. Highlights from the episode: Dieting vs. eating right for paralysis How weekends can sabotage progress Planning and prepping meals for success Finding what works for YOU Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this episode, Fatimah discusses her #1 tip for permanent weight loss with paralysis. You don't want to miss this juicy episode! Highlights from the episode: Why all diets fail, eventually Forget the 80/20 rule Empowering yourself with flexible eating How to lose weight and keep it off for good Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury:Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this episode, Fatimah discusses popular supplements such as liver detoxes, metabolism boosters, and fat-burning pills. Highlights from the episode: Your liver: the supreme detox organ Risks of herbals + botanicals Dangers of diet pills Mixing medications and supplements Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury:Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this episode, Fatimah discusses intermittent fasting and why it's not a good choice for people with paralysis. Highlights from the episode: Adequate protein and fiber How skipping meals affects bowels Food choices vs. watching the clock Having a healthy relationship with food Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury:Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this episode, Fatimah discusses the importance of breakfast and how it can help you lose weight, improve bowel health, and feel more energetic. Highlights from the episode: Why mornings are sacred It's ok if you're not a "breakfast person" An opportunity for weight loss How morning meals help with morning bowel routines Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury:Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
Curious about probiotics? Unsure what foods to eat for a healthy gut? On this episode of the podcast, Fatimah is filling you in on all things gut bacteria! Highlights from the episode: What are probiotics? What foods contain them? Role of prebiotics in the gut Supplementation vs. whole food sources How healthy gut bacteria will help improve your bowel program Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this episode, Fatimah talks about vitamins, minerals, protein powders, and other supplements. If you're thinking about starting supplements or you currently take supplements, this episode is a must-listen. Highlights from the episode: Supplement safety & drug interactions Top supplement picks for SCI & paralysis How to know what to take Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this week's episode, Fatimah discusses how weight loss really happens.. and it's not from cardio! Highlights from the episode: - Calorie deficit for weight loss with paralysis - Not relying on exercise to "burn" more energy - Why your trainer at the gym shouldn't be giving you macros/calories - Ableism in weight loss/fitness industry Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this episode of the podcast, Fatimah talks about how you can get adequate hydration while also managing neurogenic bladder. She discusses the importance of drinking enough water, and how it affects the entire body, particularly the bowels. Highlights from the episode: - How much water to drink per day - How you schedule your cathing around your activities - Importance of electrolytes for absorbing water Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury:Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this episode, Fatimah talks about the difference between counting calories and counting macros for weight loss with paralysis. She breaks down why macro counting is a better method and what calorie counting leaves to be desired. Highlights from the episode: - What are macros? - Why calorie counting is too simplistic for weight loss - Challenges of staying in a calorie deficit with paralysis Resources Mentioned:Macros Masterclass February 15, 2022, at 10 am EDT: Sign up HERE Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury:|Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this episode, Fatimah talks with a fellow registered dietitian, Devika Sharma, RD about weight loss using macro counting. Devika explains why macro counting is a more sustainable, effective method of weight loss than calorie counting, and how ALL foods can fit into a healthy diet. Highlights from the episode include: - What are macros? - How to lose weight without being miserable - Enjoying "fun" foods with weight loss in mind Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this episode, Fatimah chats with Paralysis Nutrition group coaching member Caroline, who was living with two-stage III pressure sores for over 2 years. After just 1 month of eating right for wound healing, Caroline was able to completely heal her wounds, and today she's here to talk about her success. Highlights from the episode: - The advice Caroline received from wound care - Protein and supplementation for wound healing - Constipation issues from a high-protein diet - Life after healing Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
On today's episode, Fatimah talks with special guest Dr. Joanne Delgado, who is a physiatrist and spinal cord injury specialist from Florida. Dr. Delgado discusses medical management of spinal cord injury, both acute and chronic, and how comprehensive care is the key to quality of life after spinal cord injury. You don't want to miss this rare opportunity to hear valuable information directly from a physician who has extensive training, education, and experience with spinal cord injury! Highlights from the episode: - Constipation and bowel health, plus Dr. Delgado's honest opinion on laxatives - Spasticity management - UTIs and bladder dysfunction - Emotional aspects of life with spinal cord injury Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this episode of the podcast, Fatimah chats with Paralysis Nutrition coaching program client, Heather, who was able to regulate her bowels and decrease bloating - just by changing her diet. Highlights from the episode: - How Heather went from pooping once (or less!) per week to going almost daily - The importance of eating more meals at home and planning in advance - Fiber, fluid, and stress - making the Poop Trifecta work for you - How tracking her meals has helped Heather stay consistent Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
On this solo episode of the podcast, Fatimah reveals the Poop Trifecta, and how focusing on fiber, fluid, and stress can help you manage your bowel health. She discusses the emotional toll that bowels have on the SCI and paralysis community, and how you can change your life for the better when you address your gut health. Highlights from the episode include: - Emotional and social aspects of bowel care - Dietary fiber and carbs - Hydration and fluid requirements - Stress reduction and effect of stress on gut health Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury:Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
Today's episode is all about hormones, and how they affect the body in terms of weight, mood, bowels, and more. Hormone expert and fellow registered dietitian, Casey Farlow, RD (@hormone.weightloss) is here to explain how balancing your hormones is the key to overall health. Highlights from the episode: - Hunger and fullness hormones - Gut-healthy foods to fight inflammation - Lifestyle changes to help balance hormones - Sleep hygiene Connect with Casey Farlow, RD: Instagram @hormone.weightloss Tik Tok: @hormone.weightloss Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
Today's episode is all about hormones, and how they affect the body in terms of weight, mood, bowels, and more. Hormone expert and fellow registered dietitian, Casey Farlow, RD (@hormone.weightloss) is here to explain how balancing your hormones is the key to overall health. Highlights from the episode: - Hunger and fullness hormones - Gut-healthy foods to fight inflammation - Lifestyle changes to help balance hormones - Sleep hygiene Connect with Casey Farlow, RD: Instagram @hormone.weightloss Tik Tok: @hormone.weightloss Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this episode, Fatimah chats with Paralysis Nutrition coaching program client Tammy about her experience with bowel health over the last 36 years of being quadriplegic. Tammy reveals how her bowels have been a huge source of stress, physical pain, and emotional trauma. Fatimah and Tammy discuss how a gut-healthy diet for paralysis can help improve bowel health and make life easier, more enjoyable, and less stressful. Highlights from the episode: - Emotional and physical toll of chronic bowel issues - Tammy's decision to live independently as a quadriplegic - Gut-healthy diet for neurogenic bowel - Importance of fiber and fiber for constipation Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
On this episode, Fatimah is joined by fellow dietitian Dionne Milauskas, RD to talk about blood sugar control and diabetes. Did you know that the spinal cord injury community has a prevalence of diabetes that is 2.5x higher than the general population? Many people with paralysis are prediabetic and don't even know it! Dionne is here to share her expertise on how you can better balance your blood sugar using real food. Highlights from the episode: - The difference between prediabetes and diabetes - How to pair your carbs with fat, fiber, and protein - Why it's important to know your A1C - Tips on nighttime snacking Follow Dionne on Instagram @prediabetes.nutrition for more tips on managing your blood sugar. Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In this solo episode, Fatimah talks about meal planning and how it's not as complicated or time-consuming as you may think. She gives useful tips on how to plan meals ahead of time, starting with grocery shopping. Highlights from the episode include: - Grocery shopping strategy - Prepping in advance - How caregivers and loved ones can help Download your FREE 7 Day Paralysis Nutrition Meal Plan (with recipes and grocery list HERE. Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
PN Program graduate Michael is here to chat with Fatimah about how adding carbs back into his diet helped him lose 12 lb. in 3 months and make his bowel program easier. Prior to the program, Michael was barely eating any carbs, based on advice he received from a personal trainer. Now that he is following the PN method, Michael is feeling his best! Highlights from the episode include: - Michael's hesitancy to change his eating habits - How he lost 12 lb. in 3 months - His simple method for weekly meal planning with his wife - Making the PN method work as a full-time working dad Download the FREE Paralysis Nutrition 7 Day Meal Plan (with recipes and grocery list) HERE. Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
Paralysis Nutrition Program graduate Asa shares how she went from being constipated for decades to successfully regulating her bowel program by changing her diet. Fatimah asks Asa what dietary changes and lifestyle behaviors led to her being able to relieve her bowel issues, and they chat about how nutrition plays an integral role in quality of life with paralysis. Highlights from the episode include: - The poop trifecta: fiber, fluid, and stress - The difference between "healthy eating" and eating right for paralysis - Weight vs. health - Medical bias towards people with paralysis Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
Fatimah has an eye-opening conversation about the role of registered dietitians in inpatient rehab centers with former TBI/SCI rehab dietitian, Rakhi Roy, MS RD. Fatimah asks Rakhi about her experience as a dietitian working at a rehab center and the challenges she faced with facilitating dietary changes. Highlights from the episode include: - How the food at rehab favors taste over nutrition - Automatic doctor's orders for laxatives - Emotional trauma and the timeliness of making dietary recommendations Connect with Rakhi Roy on Instagram at @gut.skin.nutritionist. Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
Fatimah is joined by renal dietitian Michele Crosmer, MS RD (@plantbased.kidneys) to discuss kidney health. Many people with spinal cord injury and paralysis are living with kidney disease, and Michele is here to share her expertise on how to keep kidneys functioning. Highlights from the episode: - Lab values to check for kidney function - Plant-based protein vs. animal protein - Tips to keep your kidneys healthy You can follow Michele on Instagram for more information on nutrition for kidney health @plantbased.kidneys. Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
Fatimah teams up with Lauren Harmison, Registered Nurse, SCI advocate, and CEO of Campo Possibility, to discuss medical issues related to paralysis. Lauren offers her expertise on a variety of subjects, including UTIs, skin wounds, bowel care, and kidney health. Highlights from the episode: - How to prevent and treat UTIs - Caring for pressure sores - Rethinking your bowel program Lauren can be found on Instagram @sci_nurse and @camp_possability. Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
In today's episode, Fatimah discusses emotional and binge eating with a fellow registered dietitian, Marissa Kai Miluk (@binge.nutritionist). When it comes to overeating, many people struggle to figure out why they do it, and how they can start to be more mindful in their approach to food. Marissa is here to share her expertise on the subject of binge eating and gives useful insights on why so many of us struggle with eating past the point of fullness. Highlights from the episode: - Emotional eating vs. binge eating - Common reasons we overeat at night - How your mindset shapes your behaviors around food - What does "healthy" mean for you? Connect with Marissa Kai Miluk: Instagram: @binge.nutritionist Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
Fatimah talks about the keto diet in today's episode and explains why it's not appropriate for people living with paralysis. She discusses how keto can worsen bowel health and details her concerns about the impact of this particular diet on the heart, liver, and kidneys. She also offers her perspective on why keto is not a sustainable eating pattern. Highlights from the episode: - What is the ketogenic diet? - Impact of keto on bowel health - Side effects of keto on the body - What foods does keto eliminate from your diet? - Why carbs are essential for weight loss & bowel health Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
Fatimah is here to tell you the truth about carbs! When it comes to eating carbs, it can be confusing to figure out what's true and what's not. Especially with all the crazy diets out there, it's important to know how to handle carbs when it comes to living with paralysis. This episode will help you figure out how to balance your meals so you can eat the foods you love, while still improving your bowels and losing weight. Highlights from the episode: - What foods have carbs? - Dietary fiber & constipation - Weight loss without restriction - Simple vs. complex carbs Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
On this episode of the Paralysis Nutrition Podcast, Fatimah is joined by fellow registered dietitian and weight loss expert, Katie Gill, to talk about vegetarian diets. Plant-based eating is a hugely popular topic in the weight loss world, and today's episode is all about how you can incorporate more meatless meals into your diet. Fatimah and Katie share their tips and tricks on how you can explore more plant-based options. This episode is also helpful for vegetarians who may not know some of the important factors to consider when it comes to balancing macros and getting adequate nutrition without eating meat. Katie, who's a vegetarian herself, shares some of the most common mistakes people make when transitioning to a meatless diet, and how you can avoid them. With Fatimah and Katie's helpful pointers, you'll learn so much about vegetarian and vegan diets, and be inspired to experiment with plant-based meals in the kitchen. Highlights from the episode: • Vegetarian vs. vegan diets • Plant-based proteins • Carbs & dietary fiber • Common weight loss mistakes Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
Welcome back to the Paralysis Nutrition Podcast! Today's episode is all about how to stay on track, even while on vacation. Going away is meant to be fun, but coming back bloated, constipated, and a few pounds heavier isn't fun for anyone. Fatimah is here to share her top tips for enjoying your vacation AND staying healthy. This episode is your guide for healthy and happy travels with paralysis. As a registered dietitian and wife of a quadriplegic, Fatimah knows how important it is to eat right so you can be your healthiest self with paralysis, even when you're traveling. With Fatimah's helpful pointers, you will be able to travel with confidence in your food choices. From preparing for the trip to mealtime suggestions, this episode packs lots of information to help you have a happy, healthy vacation. Highlights from the episode Focusing on weight maintenance, not weight loss for vacation How to avoid overeating Choose one: alcohol OR dessert Checking out the local scene Staying safe and happy during your travels. Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition Apply to work with me: Paralysis Nutrition
Welcome back to the Paralysis Nutrition Podcast! Today Fatimah has the pleasure of talking with Paralysis Nutrition Coaching Program graduate, Nikki Walsh. Nikki is a certified personal trainer who is paraplegic and has had amazing success with the Paralysis Nutrition Program. With adaptive fitness and Fatimah's program, Nikki was able to get her diet on track, stop taking a suppository, and lose 16 inches from her waist! In this episode, Nikki and Fatimah will discuss highlights from her journey thus far. As Nikki was recovering from an injury 3 years ago, she was given different nutrition advice from doctors, rehab staff, and personal trainers. She was exercising 6 to 7 times a week but failing to see any results in weight loss or in easing constipation. Feeling frustrated and losing hope, she finally found Fatimah's program specially designed for people with paralysis. Now she is here to share insights and advice about working out and finding your nutritional balance to feel great, lose weight, and enjoy your food! Highlights from the episode: How to eat right for paralysis Caloric intake - deficit vs. surplus 90/10 approach to weight loss Adaptive fitness for people with paralysis How to enjoy your meals without guilt, even out at restaurants! Grab your copy of The Paralysis Nutrition Cookbook: 101 Recipes to Help You Lose Weight & Improve Bowel Health. With this book, you can create meals with real food, real taste, and real results! Connect with Nikki Walsh: Updated Instagram: @nikkiwalsh.adaptfit Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition
Welcome to the Paralysis Nutrition Podcast! Fatimah is very excited to start having important conversations surrounding healthy eating for people with paralysis. Fatimah is a registered dietitian who is married to a quadriplegic and specializes in nutrition for paralysis. Her passion is helping the paralysis community learn to eat right so they can live healthier and happier lives. In this debut episode, Fatimah will define what a healthy diet looks like for a person with paralysis. However, this is not your average diet with countless rules and unsatisfying meals. With Fatimah's approach, eating right for paralysis is learning how to balance your food choices, in a way that's sustainable for years to come. She will explain how learning about nutrition and taking control of your health using the power of food can be both rewarding and fun! Highlights from the episode: 5 things that define a healthy “diet” for paralysis 5 things that define a healthy “diet” for paralysis Eat the right amount of calories Balance your macros (macronutrients- proteins, carbs, fats) Adequate fiber Adequate hydration Make it fun and delicious! Episode topics to look forward to: How to lose weight without exercising Understanding Macros Grab your copy of The Paralysis Nutrition Cookbook: 101 Recipes to Help You Lose Weight & Improve Bowel Health. With this book, you can create meals with real food, real taste, and real results! Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition Apply to work with me: Paralysis Nutrition
Your host Fatimah shares with you what you can expect from the Paralysis Nutrition Podcast. If you want to know when we will be launching the podcast, connect with Fatimah on Instagram, or Facebook so when we launch the podcast, you will be the first to know. Connect with Fatimah Fakhoury: Instagram: @paralysis.nutrition Facebook: @Paralysis Nutrition Apply to work with me: Paralysis Nutrition