They told us she wouldn’t live past her second birthday. Progressive, they said. Terminal. We were warned it would get worse until there would be no more “worse” left.

Sixteen surgeries before her second birthday. Fourteen emergencies. The kind of life that doesn’t leave space for normalcy. She didn’t crawl. She didn’t laugh. She barely moved. She was slipping away, and we were desperate.

Praying for a Way Out

With nothing left, we prayed. No more doctors. No more complicated words. Just prayer. We begged God for an answer, and He delivered, not with fireworks, but through a diet so simple it felt almost laughable: carnivore.

A Body That Couldn’t Say Yes

Breastfeeding worked, for a time. When solids came, chicken, fruits, and vegetables, her body betrayed her. Gas trapped in her intestines turned into painful pseudo-obstructions. Each bite could mean a trip to the ER.

Soon, she couldn’t eat at all. Her belly swelled like a drum, her limbs shriveled. She lived tethered to IV nutrition, a ghost of the vibrant child she should have been.

She weighed 26 pounds at two and a half. Frail. Gray. Not playing. Not laughing. Surviving, barely.

A New Logic for a Failing Body

Sleepless nights became a search for something, anything. That’s when I stumbled across Dr. Becky Plotner’s work on candida and gas. Hope flickered.

Dr. Plotner introduced me to the GAPS diet. But for my daughter, even the GAPS protocol needed more stripping down. No vegetables. No plants. Just the “No Plant GAPS” diet, a carnivore approach for the medically fragile.

We started simply:

1. Pasture-raised chicken broth
2. Organ meats, gently cooked
3. Raw egg yolks
4. Homemade kefir, fermented for 24 hours
5. Bone broth, rich and mineral-packed

Two months later, everything changed. She gained 10 pounds. Her cheeks blushed pink again. Her stomach softened. She laughed, really laughed, for the first time.

By six months, she was off IV nutrition. The port in her chest was removed. No hospital stays. No emergencies. Today, she’s six years old. She climbs monkey bars, races her brothers, and rides her bike like she’s chasing the wind.

A Simple Kind of Miracle

Our story isn’t alone. Other terminal children are now thriving after switching to a similar diet. Some are finally gaining weight. Some are free from IV nutrition.

This journey led me to write Dying to Thriving because stories like this deserve to be told. Deserve to give hope.

Healing isn’t always flashy. Sometimes it’s broth. Sometimes it’s fatty meat. Sometimes it’s the kind of faith that refuses to blink in the face of impossible odds.

The odds said my daughter wouldn’t make it. Instead, she lived. And she’s just getting started.

The post MOM: “My Baby Was Terminal… Until Carnivore Saved Her” appeared first on Health Coach.

Imagine welcoming a perfect newborn, only to be told days later that something invisible, something terminal, lurked inside her. That was my reality. My daughter’s diagnosis (MMIHS) was an avalanche of fear, medical interventions, and a clock that ticked louder with every moment.

Doctors gave no promises. Most children with this condition, they said, don’t survive past their toddler years. What followed was a journey not just of survival, but of tearing up the rulebook and living in defiance of the odds.

What Survival Meant Back Then

At first, my daughter thrived on breastmilk. It was only when solids entered the scene that chaos erupted, distended belly, relentless constipation, surgeries stacking up like poorly placed dominoes. Even the smallest misstep in her diet caused her gut to rebel.

The “standard” food pyramid offered no salvation. Bananas, blueberries, and gluten-free bread, none were innocent. Each well meaning attempt at a ‘healthy’ meal triggered disaster.

Trips to the hospital became routine. Ambulances. Nights of breathless vigilance listening for coughs, vomiting episodes, or the ominous silence that sent adrenaline spiking. Medical jargon soon turned familiar: TPN, intestinal failure, organ transplants looming on the horizon.

And then, quietly, a door cracked open.

The GAPS Diet in the Middle of the Storm

Hope came wrapped in an unlikely package: the GAPS diet. Specifically, the no plant version, an even more stripped down approach for those so fragile, even garlic could tip them into crisis.

We kept it simple:

• Pasture-raised chicken
• Rich broths simmered from bones
• Tender organ meats
• Butter and raw egg yolks for vital fat
• Later, grass-fed beef, slowly reintroduced

No fancy sauces. No condiments. Just food in its raw, powerful simplicity.

Beef didn’t work at first. The body’s response was overwhelming. So we started softer. Slowly, methodically, we rebuilt her from the inside out.

Time became an ally rather than an enemy. Within a year, beef reappeared on the menu. And with it, a child who no longer lived tethered to an IV pole.

What Healing Looks Like

Today, my daughter is a blur of motion, a five-year-old running wild at the playground, pedaling her bike under the sun, swimming without the shadow of central lines or hospital stays.

It’s not glamorous. The diet is simple, almost spartan: homemade G-tube blends of bone broth and organ meat, punctuated with raw egg yolks and gobs of butter. String beans and the occasional berry sneak into her siblings’ plates. I favor lamb, keeping histamine intolerance at bay.

Not fancy. But alive. Thriving.

What the Limits Reveal

Healing wasn’t just physical. It reshaped our family. Gratitude, once a nice idea, became a way of breathing. When you’ve watched your child fight for every ounce of life, even the smallest joys become amplified.

1. A warm meal at home.
2. A declined credit card, not a crisis, but a memory of worse days.
3. The simple fact of not sleeping on a cot in a hospital room.

What I Found in the Dark Now Lights the Way

I didn’t just stop at saving my daughter. I wrote a book, ‘Dying to Thriving’ capturing every misstep, every breakthrough. My work now touches families across continents, offering them a map I had to sketch myself in the dark.

For some, it means a child leaving TPN feeds behind. For others, it’s the first whisper of bowel motility after a lifetime of none. I’ve seen miracles. Not the lightning-bolt kind, but the slow, relentless sort that feels like stubbornness dressed as grace.

Conclusion

Healing isn’t always flashy. Sometimes, it looks like eating burger patties day after day. Sometimes, it’s fermented sauerkraut juice bubbling quietly in a corner.

We live in a time that craves instant results, but my daughter’s story is a reminder: real healing is often unvarnished, repetitive, and grueling. But it’s also glorious. When the experts shook their heads, we chose not to listen. We chose life. Maybe that’s the real miracle.

The post Healing Miracles with Carnivore Diet: Surviving A Terminal Diagnosis (MMIHS) appeared first on Health Coach.

When it comes to the incredible resilience of the human spirit and the groundbreaking power of nutrition, few stories are as inspiring as that of Jessica Roman and her daughter, Riley. Jessica, a health coach and founder of the Christian Health Collective, has witnessed a transformation in her daughter’s life that can only be described as miraculous.

The Diagnosis: A Rare and Challenging Condition

Riley was born with a rare genetic condition known as Megacystis Microcolon Intestinal Hypoperistalsis Syndrome (MMIHS). This life-threatening disorder affects intestinal motility and bladder function, and fewer than 200 people worldwide are diagnosed with it. The prognosis was grim. Many children with MMIHS do not survive past early childhood, relying on intensive medical interventions such as total parenteral nutrition (TPN) and multiple surgeries.

From birth, Riley faced overwhelming challenges. Her inability to process food led to distension, pseudo-obstructions, and severe malnutrition. By the time she was three, she had endured 11 surgeries and was entirely dependent on IV nutrition. Her doctors painted a bleak picture, suggesting a future of continued hospitalizations and, potentially, a bowel transplant.

A Turning Point: Discovering a New Approach

As Riley’s condition worsened, Jessica began exploring alternative options, desperate to find something that could help. A chance encounter with a practitioner of the GAPS (Gut and Psychology Syndrome) diet introduced her to the No-Plant GAPS protocol, a variation of the carnivore diet emphasizing animal-based nutrition, including meat, organ meats, fermented dairy, and bone broth.

The changes were immediate and astonishing. Within two months, Riley gained ten pounds, her energy returned, and her health improved dramatically. Her distended belly flattened, and she began thriving in ways her family never thought possible.

The Role of Nutrition: A Lifesaving Diet

Before transitioning to the No-Plant GAPS diet, Riley’s condition was aggravated by foods her body couldn’t tolerate, including fruits, vegetables, and grains. Doctors initially advised against dietary restrictions, fearing psychological impacts, and instead recommended lifelong antibiotics. Jessica trusted her instincts and decided to overhaul her daughter’s diet entirely.

The results were groundbreaking. Riley not only gained weight but also experienced a significant reduction in complications like pseudo-obstructions and gas. Her ostomy, which once caused frequent and painful prolapses, became manageable. Even her bladder function improved—a feat her doctors considered impossible.

The Ripple Effect: Changing Lives Around the World

Jessica didn’t stop with her own family. She began connecting with other parents of children with MMIHS, sharing Riley’s story and offering guidance. From Chile to Italy, families who adopted similar dietary approaches saw significant improvements in their children’s health. Jessica’s advocacy has opened doors for many who previously thought there were no viable alternatives.

Thriving Against All Odds

Today, Riley is a vibrant, energetic five-year-old who loves dancing, playing outdoors, and dressing up in princess gowns. Her remarkable recovery has defied all expectations, transforming her life and that of her family. They have embraced an animal-based diet as a household, fostering health and resilience for everyone.

Jessica’s journey is a testament to the power of persistence, faith, and the human body’s ability to heal when given the right tools. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for families facing similar struggles, proving that even in the direst circumstances, there is room for hope and healing.

If you’d like to learn more about Jessica’s story or her work, visit Christian Health Collective. Her book, Dying to Thriving: How Simple Dietary Changes Reversed My Daughter’s Terminal Genetic Disease, provides a detailed account of their journey, offering inspiration and guidance for others navigating similar challenges.

The post A Journey from Despair to Hope – Dr. Shawn Baker Podcast appeared first on Health Coach.

For 5 years, I have silently felt the weight and guilt of my daughter’s condition. I wondered, at times, if God was punishing me and making her suffer as a result. 

I wondered if God was using this as a big lesson to put me in my place. I didn’t feel these things all the time, but they were nagging thoughts that came and went. I wondered also, what I had done to cause this. Was it something I did during pregnancy? Did I sleep too close to the Wifi router at night? Was it because I had an ultrasound and she was harmed by the radiation? I pushed the thoughts down because I knew God had a plan, and the bible tells us to be thankful in ALL circumstances. A lot of good had come from my daughter’s condition. We met so many people. Other children are being helped through seeing the dietary protocol that worked miraculously well for her. People close to us have come to the Lord. 

Wonderful things that would have never happened were it not for her journey. 

 But this nagging feeling persisted. This was my fault somehow. I’m her mother, I must have caused this.  

When my third son, suffering from severe eczema, was having a rough couple of days, I picked up my book “Praying the Scriptures for Your Children” and opened to the health chapter. 

My heart so hurt for his suffering, and I again felt the weight of blaming myself. In the book, another mother’s story is detailed, and a scripture that took her guilt away once and for all. 

 “As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” ‭‭John‬ ‭9‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 

 I clung to the words as I read, “Who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind”. I was so anxious to know who was to blame. Was it me? Was it her? It couldn’t be her, she’s only a child. Surely Jesus would blame the parents, right? 

 The weight of the oppression in my heart shattered as I read, “Neither this man or his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him”. 

 This guilt I had been carrying for years melted away in an instant. I felt so much hope. God didn’t do this to my daughter, but he is going to show his glory and mercy through her. Others will be saved and healed through her journey because of him. Same for my son.  

Scripture is the living word of God. It can heal our hearts from things we have held onto for years, even decades or for a lifetime. God knew I needed to be set free, and he led me to those words so I could let go of the guilt. The Bible is such a huge book, each sentence full of so much wisdom to unpack. 

This was the exact scripture I needed on that day, and I have been set free ever since. Those coming-and-going thoughts are all gone. I feel the peace that surpasses all understanding around my children’s health because I know God is working through them to glorify Himself. 

 I hope this reaches another who needs to be set free. God bless you.

The post “So that the works of God might be displayed in him” appeared first on Health Coach.

In a world filled with quick fixes and artificial solutions, many of us desire to return to the simplicity of God’s creation for healing and wellness. As stewards of this earth and caretakers of our own bodies, we’re called to honor the intricate design of life that God has given us. One way to do this is by exploring natural, science-backed solutions like hydrogen water, which mirrors the purity and vitality of water found in untouched regions of the world.

A Personal Journey of Faith and Healing

About a year ago, my family’s life was turned upside down when my mom was diagnosed with cancer. As I searched for ways to support her health, I began researching holistic treatments and kept coming across testimonies of people who had experienced life-changing benefits from drinking hydrogen water. Their stories were inspiring, but it wasn’t until I saw the impact on my own family that I truly understood the potential of this water.

In my time researching hydrogen water for my mom’s journey, it eventually led me to begin using it for my own family as well. To my surprise, it did more than I anticipated! It helped alleviate the inflammation and pain I had struggled with for years due to lower back scoliosis. This unexpected transformation not only improved my quality of life but also ignited a passion within me to share this powerful water with others.

What is Hydrogen Water?

Hydrogen water is enriched with molecular hydrogen, the smallest and most powerful antioxidant. This water isn’t just refreshing, it’s life-giving. Research shows that molecular hydrogen helps neutralize harmful free radicals, reduces inflammation, and supports the body’s natural healing processes.

Simply put, hydrogen water reflects the restorative principles seen in creation: balance, purity, and renewal.

Why It Matters for Our Health and Faith

Our bodies are temples (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and we are tasked with caring for them. But, the modern world is filled with challenges like daily stress, processed foods, and environmental toxins that take a toll on our health. Hydrogen water offers a practical way to partner with God’s design, replenishing our bodies at the cellular level.

This isn’t about chasing trends or gimmicks, it’s about finding sustainable solutions rooted in science and inspired by faith. By nourishing ourselves with clean, structured water, we align with God’s intent for health and wholeness.

The Science Behind It

Molecular hydrogen’s small size allows it to penetrate cells and reach areas where traditional antioxidants cannot. Studies show that it:

• Supports energy production by optimizing mitochondrial function.
• Promotes better hydration, which is essential since our bodies are over 70% water.
• Aids in detoxification and reducing oxidative stress, a key contributor to chronic illness.

A Solution for Families and Communities

As a Christian, I believe in the power of community and shared stewardship. My mission as a hydrogen water consultant is to empower families to make informed choices about their health. Through virtual consultations, I help people understand how investing in their wellness, through tools like hydrogen water, can transform their lives and those around them.

Restoring the Natural Order

In Genesis, God declares His creation “very good.” While we can’t return to Eden, we can make choices that reflect “Eden-like”stewardship: pursuing wellness that honors God, creation, and each other. Hydrogen water is one step on this journey which is a simple yet profound way to care for the body, mind, and spirit.

Ready to Learn More?

If you’re curious about hydrogen water or want to explore how it can fit into your family’s lifestyle, I’d love to guide you. Together, we can embrace the wisdom of creation and make wellness choices that align with our faith and values. Let’s partner in health and wholeness because our Creator designed us for an abundant life!

Noelle Kua-Nachor

Hydrogen Water Consultant

The post Caring for God’s Temple: The Role of Hydrogen Water in Holistic Health appeared first on Health Coach.

In a recent episode of The Plant-Free MD podcast, Dr. Anthony Chaffee sat down with Jessica Roman, who shared a truly transformative journey centered on her daughter Riley, a child who had faced one of the most severe digestive disorders a young person could experience. Jessica’s story is not just about overcoming a rare genetic condition but about discovering the profound impact that a carefully tailored diet can have—even in cases where traditional medicine offers little hope.

The Life-Altering Diagnosis

Riley was born with a rare genetic disorder called MMIHS, which severely affects the smooth muscles of the intestines and bladder. From the start, Jessica’s journey as Riley’s mother was filled with medical emergencies, countless hospital visits, and complex procedures. Riley required multiple surgeries, and by the age of two, was fully dependent on TPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition), which bypasses the digestive system and supplies nutrients directly into the bloodstream. Doctors told Jessica that Riley would likely need a bowel transplant in the near future and that her prognosis was bleak, often giving her only a few years to live.

A Last Hope: The No-Plant GAPS Diet

Jessica’s breakthrough came when she encountered Dr. Becky Plotner, a certified GAPS practitioner who introduced her to the no-plant GAPS diet. This diet, an extreme version of the carnivore diet, is specifically designed for patients with severely compromised digestive systems. It consists mainly of organ meats, homemade broths, and fermented dairy—all foods aimed at supporting a sensitive digestive system without causing further harm. Jessica was told to go back to basics: boil pasture-raised chickens, blend the meat with broth, and start feeding Riley just a few milliliters at a time through a G-tube.

What happened next was nothing short of remarkable. Within a week, Riley’s chronic abdominal distention—a problem that had plagued her since birth—began to subside. Her skin started to take on a healthy color, her hair began growing, and her energy levels transformed. Slowly but steadily, Riley’s need for TPN faded, and she even began experiencing regular bladder control, something her condition had previously made impossible.

The Power of Personalized Nutrition

Dr. Chaffee and Jessica discussed the powerful, often overlooked role of diet in managing severe illnesses. Traditional medicine, Jessica explained, had little to offer beyond medication and surgery. Fiber and carbohydrates, which are commonly recommended, had only worsened Riley’s symptoms by fueling harmful gut bacteria. However, once she transitioned to the no-plant GAPS diet, her health rapidly improved.

For Riley, eliminating all plants and focusing on nutrient-dense animal foods was the key to stabilizing her condition. Jessica recalls that Riley’s doctors were stunned by her progress; many had assumed that her only future lay in experimental surgeries and a lifelong dependency on IV nutrition.

A Family’s Transformation

Inspired by Riley’s progress, Jessica and her entire family embraced the no-plant GAPS lifestyle. Jessica herself had battled autoimmune issues, which dramatically improved on this diet. She found herself with renewed energy and resilience, even after long hospital stays with Riley. Jessica, her husband, and her other two children continue to follow a similar regimen, which has become a grounding, supportive lifestyle for the whole family.

Christian Health Collective: Sharing the Hope

Jessica’s experience has motivated her to support other families facing similar challenges. She founded Christian Health Collective, an organization focused on holistic health and nutrition. Through coaching and educational resources, she now helps families understand how personalized dietary interventions can transform health outcomes—even when traditional medical approaches fall short.

She is also releasing a book, Dying to Thriving, which chronicles Riley’s journey and provides a roadmap for parents and caregivers navigating similar health crises. Jessica hopes that her story will inspire other parents to question dietary norms and to work with medical professionals open to exploring new approaches, especially in cases where the stakes are high.

A New Path Forward

Jessica’s story is a testament to the impact of diet on health, especially in cases where conventional treatments provide little relief. It also highlights the importance of staying curious and open to alternative therapies. For parents facing overwhelming diagnoses, Jessica’s story is a beacon of hope. Through tireless research, a willingness to try something unconventional, and a holistic approach, Jessica found a way to give her daughter a future full of health, vitality, and possibilities.

If you’d like to learn more about Jessica Roman’s work or get updates on her upcoming book, visit cHealthCollective.org.

The post From Grim Diagnosis to Thriving Health: How a Unique Carnivore Diet Transformed a Young Girl’s Life appeared first on Health Coach.

Gut health challenges can be life-altering, not only for those directly impacted but also for their families. Jessica Roman’s journey with her daughter Riley, diagnosed with the rare condition megacystis microcolon intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome (MMIHS), sheds light on the power of natural dietary interventions to reverse severe gut issues. What follows is an exploration of Jessica’s journey as she transformed her daughter’s health through an approach that emphasizes dietary adjustments, patience, and perseverance.

The Diagnosis: Understanding MMIHS

MMIHS is an extremely rare, severe disorder that affects the urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. Children with MMIHS experience a lack of gut motility, meaning their intestines cannot effectively move food and waste through the digestive system. When Riley was born, her parents were faced with symptoms that included a distended abdomen, a dysfunctional bladder, and severe constipation. From the start, they knew this would be a life-changing challenge, as they adjusted to a round-the-clock routine of catheters, surgeries, and feeding adjustments.

Riley’s condition was compounded by a genetic mutation, ACTg2, making her case even more complex. Despite numerous hospital visits, invasive procedures, and traditional treatments, Riley continued to experience worsening symptoms. Her health declined as she struggled to gain weight, absorb nutrients, and fight off recurring infections.

Searching for Solutions: From Crisis to Hope

As Riley’s symptoms persisted, Jessica and her husband tried various treatments, including surgery, TPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition), and catheterization. Riley’s digestive issues worsened over time, leading to continuous hospitalizations and painful procedures. Jessica sought advice from doctors, yet each intervention seemed to fall short of improving her daughter’s long-term health. Jessica soon realized that traditional treatments alone might not provide the solution she sought.

In a pivotal moment, Jessica reached out to naturopathic doctor Becky Plotner. Dr. Plotner introduced Jessica to the Gut and Psychology Syndrome (GAPS) diet, a method designed to restore gut health through carefully selected foods. While initially skeptical, Jessica saw this as a last resort in her pursuit to help Riley. She decided to try the GAPS diet, specifically its “No Plant” variation, which emphasizes animal-based foods.

The GAPS Diet: A Radical Change in Riley’s Health

Starting in March 2022, Jessica introduced the “No Plant” GAPS diet, focusing on simple, easy-to-digest foods such as meat, organ meats, fermented dairy, and bone broth. This protocol aimed to reduce gut inflammation, eliminate harmful bacteria, and restore the gut lining, allowing for better nutrient absorption and overall healing. The early days were challenging, with intense die-off symptoms from yeast overgrowth as Riley’s gut adjusted to the new regimen.

Within a week, the results were remarkable.

• Visible Improvements: Riley’s color changed—her cheeks turned pink, her lips regained color, and her hair started to grow. Her distended abdomen, a constant source of discomfort, began to normalize.
• Nutrient Absorption: For the first time, Riley was gaining weight naturally. By two months on the GAPS diet, she had gained ten pounds, and her energy levels soared.
• Symptom Relief: Jessica noticed fewer signs of distress, with Riley’s stomach issues stabilizing and her dependence on TPN reduced significantly.

The GAPS diet did more than just provide symptom relief; it fundamentally transformed Riley’s health, giving her newfound energy and a vastly improved quality of life.

The Road to Independence: Overcoming Medical Barriers

Jessica’s commitment to her daughter’s healing did not come without obstacles. Hospital dietitians and medical professionals doubted the GAPS diet’s efficacy, concerned about nutritional adequacy and safety. But Jessica, fueled by her daughter’s progress, remained steadfast. She knew that traditional formulas and processed options would only exacerbate Riley’s symptoms, given her extreme sensitivity to carbohydrates.

Armed with research and her unwavering belief in natural nutrition, Jessica convinced her healthcare team to allow her to continue the diet, even advocating for it as a safer alternative to traditional, carbohydrate-heavy medical formulas. Riley’s success on the GAPS diet, despite initial skepticism, ultimately won her doctors’ support, allowing her to continue this transformative regimen.

The Impact of the “No Plant” GAPS Diet on Severe Gut Disorders

The GAPS diet’s “No Plant” protocol, while extreme, proved to be exactly what Riley needed. Designed to minimize gut inflammation and yeast overgrowth, it became a lifeline, enabling Riley’s body to heal and thrive. Key benefits included:

1. Improved Gut Motility: By eliminating hard-to-digest plant fibers, Riley’s gut could more effectively process nutrients without obstruction or fermentation.
2. Reduced Yeast Overgrowth: Carbohydrate-heavy foods were feeding harmful yeast in Riley’s gut, leading to painful bloating and distension. The GAPS diet eliminated this source, reducing her symptoms significantly.
3. Enhanced Nutrient Absorption: Animal-based foods provided essential nutrients without the additional fibers and sugars that Riley’s system struggled to digest. This allowed her to gain weight and improve her strength.

Jessica’s experience demonstrates the potential of the GAPS diet not only for rare conditions like MMIHS but also for other severe gastrointestinal and autoimmune disorders.

A New Chapter: From Survival to Thriving

Today, Riley is not just surviving but thriving. Freed from frequent hospital stays and painful procedures, she leads a life filled with activities she once could only watch from the sidelines. Dance classes, playdates, and trips to the playground are now part of her daily routine, a profound contrast from the early days of her condition.

For Jessica, this journey has become a mission. Inspired by Riley’s transformation, she has pursued further education in nutrition and health coaching, aiming to help other families struggling with similar challenges. Jessica’s website, CHealthCollective.org, provides resources and support for those interested in alternative approaches to severe gut issues. Her upcoming book, Dying to Thriving, documents Riley’s journey, offering a beacon of hope to parents facing what seem like insurmountable odds.

The Future of Gut Health: Lessons from Riley’s Story

Riley’s story offers important insights for anyone dealing with gut-related health challenges, especially those who feel conventional options have failed. The GAPS diet, particularly the “No Plant” variation, may be a viable option for those with extreme sensitivities, nutrient malabsorption, or inflammatory gut conditions. Jessica’s experience underscores the importance of advocating for individualized care and considering alternative nutritional approaches when conventional treatments fall short.

As Jessica’s story reveals, sometimes the path to healing isn’t about adding more treatments or medications. Instead, it’s about simplifying, resetting, and letting the body do what it was designed to do—heal. Riley’s journey stands as a powerful example of the resilience of the human body when given the right tools.

The post Reversing Severe Gut Disorders Naturally: The Inspiring Story of Jessica Roman and Her Daughter Riley appeared first on Health Coach.

At the Christian Health Collective, we believe in honoring birth as a natural, God-given process rather than a medicalized procedure. In a recent conversation between Jessica Roman and in-house perinatal doula Faun Gilchrist, we delved into how the journey of birth has shifted over the past century. As hospitals and medicine shape the experience, many mothers feel alienated from their bodies’ innate wisdom. Faun shares insights on how women can reclaim control over their birthing process, make informed choices, and find peace in natural approaches.

The Rise of Medicalized Birth: How Did We Get Here?

For most of history, birth was guided by women and midwives in the comfort of the home. But in recent decades, the process has become increasingly medicalized. Birth is now treated as a medical condition, managed by a framework of timelines and procedures rather than honoring the unique rhythm of each laboring mother.

The result? A cascade of interventions like inductions, epidurals, and cesareans—often leading to increased trauma for mothers and babies. Faun explains, “When you go into a hospital, you’re on a clock. Birth is expected to follow a certain timeline, and if it doesn’t, interventions begin. The more interventions, the greater the risk of complications.”

Hospital vs. Home Birth: What’s the Difference?

For women choosing between a hospital and home birth, it’s essential to understand the differences in environment and care. In a hospital, a mother’s labor is more regulated, with policies in place to “manage” the birth process. Hospital settings are often designed to ensure a live birth but can sacrifice the natural progression and autonomy of the mother.

Conversely, a home birth under the care of a licensed midwife allows the mother’s body to take the lead. There’s no rush or imposed timeline. Faun notes that midwives often approach birth as a sacred process, allowing labor to progress naturally. This setting supports a calmer, more comfortable experience, where women can feel empowered in their choices.

The Cascade of Interventions: How Hospital Births Can Escalate

A hospital birth often begins with an IV or a fetal monitor, leading to a series of interventions. Here’s how the cascade might unfold:

• Induction with Pitocin: Induction drugs stimulate strong contractions, which can be intense and painful, creating a stressful experience for both mother and baby.
• Epidural for Pain Relief: To cope with induced contractions, an epidural may be administered. While effective for pain, it reduces sensation and delays the natural urge to push, impacting the birth process.
• Potential for Cesarean: If labor fails to progress within the hospital’s timeframe, a cesarean section might be recommended. While life-saving in emergencies, cesareans often become the final step in the cascade of interventions.

Faun emphasizes that while every birth is unique, allowing the body to birth naturally often leads to fewer complications and a more fulfilling experience.

Choosing a Doula: How Advocates Support Empowered Births

Having a doula can be a transformative experience, especially within a hospital setting. Doulas, or “women who serve,” advocate for the mother’s preferences, whether in the hospital or at home. Faun’s work as a perinatal doula includes emotional and physical support for women throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.

Doulas encourage mothers to trust their bodies, reminding them that labor is a normal, natural process designed by God. Faun explains, “With a doula, mothers feel supported and empowered. They’re not simply following medical procedures but are actively involved in each decision, making choices that align with their values and desires.”

Reconnecting with the Body’s Wisdom: Natural Birthing Practices

Birth positions, environment, and breathing techniques all play a role in natural, empowering births. Many hospitals traditionally place mothers in a lying-down position, mainly for the doctor’s convenience. However, Faun highlights the benefits of upright positions like squatting, standing, or being on all fours, which support gravity and help the baby descend naturally.

Additionally, practices like optimal fetal positioning (spinning babies) and using a birth tub can enhance comfort and ease labor pain, allowing the mother to work with her body’s natural rhythms. For many mothers, being in warm water offers relaxation, easing contractions, and reducing stress on both mother and baby.

Preparing for Birth: Practical Steps for an Empowered Journey

If you’re considering a natural approach to birth, here are some actionable steps to guide your journey:

• Choose Your Care Team: Whether you prefer a hospital or home birth, having a supportive care team is essential. Look for midwives and doulas who share your values and understand your vision for birth.
• Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power. Research birthing practices, read about hospital and home birth procedures, and consider watching videos of natural births. Seeing birth as a natural, peaceful process can help reduce fear.
• Create a Birth Plan: Outline your preferences, from pain management to birthing positions, and discuss them with your care team in advance.
• Practice Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, breathing exercises, and prenatal yoga can help you prepare mentally and physically. The more relaxed you are, the smoother labor can progress.

Embracing Birth as a Sacred Experience

At Christian Health Collective, we believe that every mother deserves a birth experience that honors her strength and the sacredness of bringing life into the world. Reclaiming birth is about removing fear, trusting the body’s wisdom, and embracing birth as a natural process, not just a medical event. Faun’s work reminds us that, whether at home or in a hospital, birth can—and should—be empowering and transformative for both mother and baby.

If you’re preparing for birth and want to learn more about your options, connect with our team. Embrace this journey, feel supported, and rediscover birth as the profound, life-giving experience it was always meant to be.

The post Taking Back Birth: Embracing Natural Choices for a Healthier, Empowered Delivery appeared first on Health Coach.

Have you ever wondered how faith can transform your approach to health and wellness? At Christian Health Collective, we believe that healing isn’t just about the physical—it’s about aligning mind, body, and spirit with God’s design for us. In our first podcast, we shared our vision for what it means to offer holistic, faith-based support through our team of Christian coaches.

But this isn’t just about us—it’s about how you can reclaim your health, with God at the center.

Who Are We and Why Does It Matter?

We’re a group of passionate health professionals united by one mission: to serve God by helping others thrive in their wellness journey. Here’s a glimpse of who we are:

• Jessica Roman, our founder, started Christian Health Collective after experiencing firsthand the power of faith-based healing when her daughter was diagnosed with a terminal genetic disorder. Through prayer and guidance from the Holy Spirit, her daughter experienced incredible healing.
• Jaylee Lundberg is a holistic health coach, with a background in behavioral health and social work. Her passion is rooted in helping others find balance through both spiritual and physical health. Jaylee’s story, like so many, is a testimony of how faith can overcome even the deepest mental health challenges.
• Ikaika Kua-Nachor, our health and lifestyle coach, brings a strong fitness and nutrition background. For him, health goes far beyond hitting the gym—it’s about understanding that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, meant to be honored and cared for.
• Faun Gilchrist, a certified perinatal doula, is here to offer emotional, physical, and spiritual support for mothers throughout pregnancy, birth, and beyond. After experiencing the power of prayer during her own birth journey, Faun felt called to help other women embrace motherhood with faith.
• Christine Carlsen, an internationally certified lactation consultant, empowers mothers to connect with the God-given ability to nourish their babies naturally. She’s passionate about debunking the cultural myths that tell women they aren’t “enough,” and instead reminding them that God has equipped them perfectly for motherhood.

We’re more than just coaches—we’re here to help you uncover God’s design for your health and well-being.

How Can Faith Shape Your Wellness Journey?

It’s simple—because God’s design is perfect. Jaylee shared her own struggles with depression and mental health, pointing out that she had explored every avenue—diet, exercise, therapy—but none of it worked until she integrated faith into her healing. Why? Because you can’t address the mind and body without involving the spirit.

At Christian Health Collective, we believe in a holistic approach that doesn’t just focus on the physical symptoms but looks at the deeper spiritual journey God is leading you on. Whether it’s fitness, nutrition, mental health, or motherhood, we know that true health is about aligning your life with God’s plan.

Ikaika, our health and lifestyle coach, pointed out that much of today’s fitness culture focuses on vanity, but when you look at your body as a temple of the Holy Spirit, everything shifts. You’re no longer working out to “look good” but to honor God by caring for the body He gave you.

The Importance of Community in Health

We live in a world that’s constantly telling us to do it alone. But are we really meant to? The Bible is clear: community is key. Whether it’s raising children, recovering from illness, or simply navigating life’s challenges, we were never meant to walk this journey alone.

One of the most powerful things about Christian Health Collective is that we’re building a community rooted in faith. Faun and Christine both shared how crucial support is for women during pregnancy and motherhood. As Faun explained, childbirth and motherhood are some of the most vulnerable times in a woman’s life, and having faith-centered support can be the difference between feeling overwhelmed and feeling empowered.

And it’s not just for mothers. What if you had a team of Christian coaches helping you navigate your health journey? Whether it’s overcoming fitness challenges, improving your mental health, or learning how to nourish your body, we’re here to support you with the love and wisdom that comes from Christ.

Faith-Filled Healing: What Does That Look Like?

We’ve all experienced moments where healing felt impossible. But what if healing isn’t as far off as you think?

For Jessica, healing came when she finally surrendered her daughter’s health to God. Doctors had told her that there was little hope, but through prayer and divine guidance, her daughter’s health was restored. For Ikaika, healing came when he shifted his focus from vanity to true wellness, rooted in faith. For Jaylee, healing arrived when she realized that no amount of therapy or medication could replace the peace that comes from walking with God.

What does healing look like for you?

At Christian Health Collective, we believe that God wants you to be healed—spiritually, mentally, and physically. We’re here to help you take that next step. Healing might not happen overnight, but through faith, prayer, and practical steps grounded in God’s design, it’s within reach.

Are You Ready to Take the Next Step?

At Christian Health Collective, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way. Whether you’re seeking support for mental health, looking for fitness guidance, or need help navigating pregnancy and motherhood, we offer a faith-based approach that centers on God’s love and wisdom.

Our team is ready to help you align your wellness journey with God’s plan. So what’s your next step? If you’re ready to reclaim your health with a community that puts God first, head over to Christian Health Collective to learn more or schedule a session with one of our amazing coaches.

We’re doing this for Jesus—are you ready to join us on the journey?

The post Partnering with Christ – The Importance of Bringing Christ into the Healing Conversation appeared first on Health Coach.

Jessica Roman

Certified GAPS Coach

Jessica Roman offers holistic coaching that shares insights and experiences from her personal journey in helping with chronic and rare conditions. Her coaching is focused on providing support and guidance to others who may be facing similar challenges, all through the lens of her own experiences.

Jessica Roman’s journey into holistic health began with her mission to help her daughter overcome the debilitating symptoms of Chronic Intestinal Pseudo Obstruction and Megacystis Microcolon Intestinal Hypoperistalsis Syndrome (MMIHS). Through prayer, nutrition, lifestyle adjustments, and a deep commitment to learning about integrative approaches, she witnessed her daughter’s improvement and became passionate about sharing her story with others.

Jessica is committed to raising awareness and educating others about chronic and rare conditions. While her coaching draws from a blend of personal experiences, faith, and the guidance she received from mentors like Dr. Becky Plotner, it is important to understand that her services are focused on sharing insights and offering support, not on providing medical diagnoses or treatments.

Her coaching emphasizes faith-based principles, holistic approaches, and the belief that the body has an innate ability to heal when given the right tools and support. By sharing her story, Jessica aims to inspire and guide others on their own journeys to health and wellness.

Disclaimer:

GAPS Coaching is based on personal experiences and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Jessica’s coaching is a lifestyle and wellness service focused on sharing her journey and the tools that helped her family. Please consult with your healthcare provider for any medical advice or treatment related to your condition.

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