ABOUT
Hi! I’m Natascha.
I’m a dedicated Functional Health Coach, here to guide and support women like you on a path to enhanced energy and overall vitality.
I’ve personally experienced the challenges of health issues, and I’m passionate about empowering you to overcome a wide spectrum of vitality symptoms through identifying and addressing their root causes.
My journey started with my own health struggles, but it has evolved into a mission to support women in rediscovering their energy and vitality. After all, what is life without the vigor and vitality to truly live it to the fullest?
From overcoming issues like low energy and fatigue, digestive complaints, such as bloating and constipation, to conquering food cravings, brain fog, the burden of feeling constantly overwhelmed, and even finding the energy to exercise – I’m here to help you take charge of your health.
My unique perspective and personal journey have shown me that there are ways to revitalize your energy and regain your zest for life. If you’re ready to embark on this transformative journey, I’m eager to be your guide.
My Story
A few months after the birth of my first daughter, I found myself grappling with a series of perplexing health issues. I experienced unexplained weight loss, joint pain, tremors, heat sensitivity, a racing heartbeat, and other discomforting symptoms that eventually led to a diagnosis of Graves’ disease, an autoimmune hyperthyroid condition.
At that critical juncture, my endocrinologist strongly recommended the removal of my thyroid, believing that anti-thyroid medications would only serve as a temporary fix. According to their perspective, it was a matter of when, not if, my thyroid would be removed.
However, I couldn’t accept that fate, and I chose a different path to regain my health. My journey was centered around the concept of root cause resolution.
I embarked on a quest to identify and address the underlying factors contributing to my condition. These included health issues such as food sensitivities, digestive imbalances, an unhealthy gut microbiome, infections, blood sugar fluctuations, liver dysfunction, detoxification challenges, and nutrient deficiencies.
This journey required significant lifestyle changes, including a profound transformation of my diet. The results were nothing short of remarkable.
Six months later, I found myself mostly symptom-free. My blood tests confirmed that my thyroid hormone levels and thyroid antibodies had returned to the normal range, and I had overcome nutrient deficiencies I didn’t even know I had. Even more unexpectedly, I was free from the annoying IBS symptoms that had plagued me since my teenage years. It was a revelation, a testament to the body’s incredible resilience when provided with the right support and obstacles are removed.
What I discovered is that the true power of healing lies in understanding and addressing the root causes of health issues. Our bodies possess an innate ability to bounce back when these underlying factors are recognized and resolved.
This resilience isn’t a one-time miracle; it’s within every one of us, including you. My wish is to share this knowledge with other women, like you, so that you, too, can harness the power of root cause resolution. With this understanding, you can feel at home in your body and regain the freedom to lead a vibrant and fulfilling life.
Philosophy
Root cause resolution is the only true solution. I believe in addressing the root causes of health challenges. It’s about understanding what’s happening beneath the surface. Why do you experience these symptoms? Symptoms are like messengers, signaling that something isn’t quite right. Although they can be bothersome, they’re not the real issue. They’re the result of the problem. To find lasting solutions for your condition or symptoms, it’s essential to explore and address those underlying causes.
You’re one of a kind. You’re unique, like each of us is. While you and I may share the same symptoms or even condition, the reasons or triggers behind it may differ. This calls for a personalized plan tailored to your specific needs, including your dietary requirements. There’s no one-size-fits-all diet. Your ideal diet is likely different from mine, and your dietary needs change over time, influenced by factors such as your genetics, location, childhood diet, age, gender, and current health status.
Empowerment is what we need. I believe in the transformative power of empowerment. It’s a belief that stands in stark contrast to the prevailing narrative within the healthcare system. Far too often, women hear disheartening phrases like “there’s nothing you can do,” or “you’re just aging.” They are frequently led to think that medication is the only path, and they must accept a gradual decline in health and wellbeing. It’s an idea that places the blame on our genes, disregarding the significant influence of our environment.
My personal journey and that of countless others reveal an alternative path, marked by empowerment and a deeper understanding. It’s a journey that defies the constraints of conventional narratives and promises renewed vitality, free from the limitations of outdated beliefs.
Your support network can make or break your health journey. Your support network during your health journey is crucial to achieving your goals. In particular, support from those closest to you. If your health goals aren’t supported by your partner, it can be challenging to reach them. Looking back at my health journey, I realize and appreciate the significance of my husband’s steadfast support every step of the way.
Your mindset matters. Do you believe in your body’s innate ability to heal? Your beliefs play a crucial role in rebuilding your health and vitality. Within the canvas of your own imagination, lies the power to shape and manifest your dreams into reality.
Education/Training
I transitioned from a corporate career to become a Functional Health Coach inspired by my personal health journey. In 2016, I earned a certification as a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Practitioner (FDN-P). This certification equips me to act as a health detective, helping individuals uncover the root causes of their health symptoms, such as digestive issues, gut health, food sensitivities, hormonal imbalances, detoxification, and more. As an FDN-P, I have access to functional lab tests to pinpoint areas of dysfunction and motivate health improvements.
In addition to my FDN certification, I completed Andrea Nakayama’s and Functional Nutrition Lab’s Digestive Intensive Course and Full Body Systems Program. These programs provided me with a deeper understanding of the intricate relationships between major body systems, as well as the vital role of nutrition in supporting the health and function of these systems.
I am also certified as an HTMA Expert, offering a comprehensive approach to health and wellness through Hair Mineral Tissue Analysis (HTMA). HTMA benefits include identifying mineral imbalances, assessing heavy metal exposure, tailoring personalized wellness plans, and tracking progress.
About Me
I’m delighted to share a bit about myself with you. I’ve had the privilege of experiencing life across the globe. I grew up in the picturesque “green heart” of The Netherlands and studied Business Administration at Erasmus University in Rotterdam. My curiosity for different cultures led me to embark on two exciting exchange programs, one in vibrant Barcelona and the other in enchanting Buenos Aires.
My journey continued as I entered the corporate world, building a career in banking and risk management. However, the adventure took an exhilarating turn when my husband and I were presented with an extraordinary opportunity to live in the city that never sleeps, New York City. Our time in the Big Apple was nothing short of amazing, as we soaked in the vibrant energy, diverse culture, and the endless opportunities that the city had to offer. It was during our time in New York City that I made the career shift from the corporate banking sector to the dynamic field of health and wellness. It was also where our two wonderful girls were born.
From New York, our path led us to the heart of Texas, the charming city of Austin, surrounded by rolling hill country and warm Texan hospitality. After a few years of Texan living, we returned to our roots in The Netherlands, settling in the historically rich and picturesque city of The Hague, a place that offers a unique blend of sea, dunes, and abundant greenery.
I hold an unwavering interest in health and well-being, have a deep appreciation for design, love exploring new cultures through travel, and the art of cooking and baking brings me great joy (healthy and gluten-free dishes!). I cherish spending quality time with family and friends. And the beginning of 2024, we expect a new puppy to join our lives, promising to become a delightful new addition to my list of hobbies. Welcome to my world!
