Nutritionist, health writer and presenter – Michele Chevalley Hedge has spent her life wanting to understand human bodies. It is little-known that hormones play a crucial ongoing role in our most vital bodily functions. Michele Chevalley Hedge sees countless patients whose busy lives leave them feeling depleted and burnt out, and these symptoms are often linked to hormone imbalances.
Her new book, The Australian Healthy Hormone Diet, is a 4-week reset with recipes and eating plans to help reduce weight, increase energy and improve mood.
Michele now answers The Booktopia Guru’s Ten Terrifying Questions.
1. To begin with why don’t you tell us a little bit about yourself – where were you born? Raised? Schooled?
I was born and raised in Bayport which is at the eastern end of Long Island, New York. My mum’s family was from Italy and my dad’s family was from France. They still live in the same home – it’s been more than 55 years. I went to university just outside NYC.
2. What did you want to be when you were twelve, eighteen and thirty? And why?
At 12, I wanted to be an author because I loved reading. I was so obsessed with reading that I stole all the book report sheets so my classmates could not read more books than me.
At 18, I was not sure what I wanted to be. I knew I need a solid education to get anywhere. I grew up in a blue collar family so going to university and getting a scholarship was a very big deal. I graduated with a business degree and an education degree and went on to do my masters in computer technology. I guess I wanted to be everything!
At 30, I wanted to be a doctor. Part of me always wanted to be a doctor. So shortly after my 3 babies were born, I left the corporate world and began my wellness journey.
3. What strongly held belief did you have at eighteen that you do not have now?
I thought I would marry David Cassidy from the Partridge Family.
4. What were three big events – in the family circle or on the world stage or in your reading life, for example – you can now say, had a great effect on you and influenced you in your career path?
At the age of 24, I was invited to speak at the World Computer Education Conference. But when I discovered it was taking place in Sydney, Australia, I knocked it back. My friends insisted I go, packed my bags and drove me to the airport. I was in Sydney for 24 hours and met the man who would become my husband. I’ve lived in Sydney for longer than I lived in the USA.
On September 11th, 2001 people I loved died because of fear and stupidity. The event had a profound effect on me and my immediate family. I don’t take life for granted and understand tomorrow isn’t promised to anyone.
On my first day studying to become a nutritional medicine practitioner, I had an epiphany. Two of my greatest loves – medicine and food – were combined in an inspiring way. I found my life’s purpose.
5. Considering the innumerable electronic media avenues open to you – blogs, online newspapers, TV, radio, etc – why have you chosen to write a book?
A book is there when you need it. You can pull it from the shelves and engage with it when and how you need to. The reader may change, but this book stays the same. I hope this book helps readers to make positive changes in their life.
6. Please tell us about your latest book…
The Australian Healthy Hormone Diet outlines how you can improve your weight, energy and mood through food. Many people don’t realise the impact of hormones. And as life has become busier, I’ve treated an increasing number people whose hormones are out-of-whack. In some cases, you’ll need medical attention. But many people will feel improvement from changing what they put on the end of their fork and into their mouths. You’ll read the stories of my clients whose hormone imbalances were repaired. Hormones are messengers that affect brain function, metabolism, hunger, libido, sleep and other vital bodily functions. The 4-week reset includes clean, real food that is full of antioxidants and fibre. It’s about crowding in an abundance of healthy food to get hormones back into balance.
7. If your work could change one thing in this world – what would it be?
There are things in life we can’t control. But we can control what we eat. Many people don’t appreciate the important connection between what you eat and how you feel. I want people to understand this connection and to make choices that enhance their mood and energy levels.
8. Whom do you most admire and why?
I admire people who are fearless and kind. Life can be hard. It takes courage to face life’s difficulties. I admire people who take action, who give back and who shine brightly for themselves and others.
9. Many people set themselves very ambitious goals. What are yours?
My goal is to live in balance. I balance an enthusiastic fire in my soul with a desire for steady, grounded calm.
10. What advice do you give aspiring writers?
Don’t wait for permission. If you have a passion to share, write it or type it. Write with grit, fire in your belly and a good heart.
Thank you for playing Michele!
The Australian Healthy Hormone Diet
A 4-week reset with recipes and eating plans to help reduce weight, increase energy and improve mood.
This four-week plan encompasses nutritional and lifestyle changes to help get your life - and your hormones - back on track. Each day of the plan features tailored advice and a nourishing recipe to help your body 'reset' so that you once again feel energised and fighting fit. Michele also provides tips on how to make positive, lasting changes to your lifestyle that will stay with you long after the four weeks are over.
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