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Metabolic Health

Metabolic Health services offered in Santa Monica, CA

Metabolic Health

Maintaining optimal metabolic health is key to preventing diabetes and supporting overall energy, weight balance, and long-term wellness. At Dr. Mahboubeh: Body Aligned™, licensed naturopathic doctor Mahboubeh Hashemi, ND, takes a holistic, root-cause approach to metabolic health, helping patients balance their blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce disease risk naturally. If you're looking for personalized, preventive care, call the Santa Monica, California, office or request an appointment online today.

What is metabolic health?

Metabolic health refers to how efficiently your body regulates blood sugar, cholesterol, and inflammation. When blood sugar levels fluctuate, it can lead to issues such as:

  • Insulin resistance (when cells don’t respond properly to insulin)
  • Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes risk
  • Difficulty maintaining a healthy weight or a healthy body composition
  • Fatigue, brain fog, or sluggish metabolism
  • Hormonal imbalances and inflammation
  • Cognitive impairment and increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease

By optimizing metabolic health, you can prevent chronic conditions before they develop, ensuring better energy, hormone balance, and long-term well-being.

What are the signs that your metabolic health may need support?

Many metabolic imbalances develop silently, but some early warning signs include:

  • Unstable energy levels (feeling fatigued after meals or sluggish throughout the day)
  • Increased thirst and frequent urination (potential blood sugar fluctuations)
  • Weight fluctuations or difficulty losing weight or putting on muscle
  • Weight accumulation especially around the abdomen
  • Cravings for sugar or refined carbohydrates
  • Darkened patches of skin (often around the neck, elbows, or armpits, linked to insulin resistance)

If you're experiencing any of these red flags, addressing them early can help prevent diabetes and improve overall health.

What affects metabolic health?

Metabolic imbalances are influenced by a combination of lifestyle, genetic, and environmental factors. Some of the most common contributors include:

  • Poor diet choices – Highly processed foods, refined carbs, and excessive sugar intake disrupt blood sugar balance.
  • Sedentary lifestyle – A lack of movement decreases insulin sensitivity, making it harder for the body to regulate glucose.
  • Excess weight – Carrying extra weight, especially around the midsection, can increase the risk of insulin resistance.
  • Chronic stress – Elevated cortisol (the stress hormone) can spike blood sugar levels and impact metabolic function.
  • Poor sleep habits – Lack of sleep can increase cravings, disrupt metabolism, and lower insulin sensitivity.
  • Family history – Genetics play a role, and those with a family history of diabetes may be more susceptible.

The good news? You can positively influence these factors through targeted, holistic lifestyle changes.

How can I improve my metabolic health?

Supporting metabolic health involves strategic lifestyle shifts that improve blood sugar stability, insulin function, and overall vitality. Dr. Mahboubeh guides patients with personalized, natural solutions, including:

Balanced nutrition for blood sugar control

A whole-food, anti-inflammatory diet supports steady glucose levels and metabolic balance. Key strategies include:

  • Eating fiber-rich vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to slow blood sugar spikes
  • Avoiding processed sugars, refined carbs, and artificial additives
  • Incorporating blood-sugar-balancing herbs and targeted supplements

Movement and strength training

Exercise is one of the most powerful tools for improving insulin sensitivity. Dr. Mahboubeh recommends:

  • Daily movement, such as walking ,strength training, pilates or yoga
  • Exercises that build muscle, since muscle tissue helps regulate blood sugar levels 

Stress reduction and sleep optimization

Chronic stress and poor sleep wreak havoc on metabolism. Supporting nervous system balance can help prevent blood sugar dysregulation. Dr. Mahboubeh incorporates:

  • Mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques
  • Personalized stress management strategies
  • Sleep optimization plans to regulate circadian rhythms and metabolic function

Targeted supplementation and holistic therapies

In addition to lifestyle modifications, natural therapies can support metabolic function. Dr. Mahboubeh may recommend:

  • Herbal and nutritional supplementation for insulin regulation
  • Biofeedback therapy to reduce stress-related metabolic disruptions
  • Detoxification support to reduce environmental toxins that impact metabolic health

Metabolic imbalances don’t happen overnight—but they can be reversed with the right approach. Whether you're looking to prevent diabetes, improve energy, or optimize hormone balance, Dr. Mahboubeh provides comprehensive, naturopathic solutions to restore long-term wellness.

Call the office today or schedule a consultation online to take the first step toward better metabolic health!