“Sage took me on as a client near the beginning of quarantine to help me with my irritable bowel syndrome (IBS); this was not something that I had consciously planned, but it has revealed itself to be crucial to my success with feeding myself for every meal during a period of such high internal and external stress. 

 

Sage began by studying the eating patterns I came to her with by having me keep an honest and itemized food journal. I hadn’t realized how impactful of an experience writing down what I ate would be, but it was jarring to see some of the choices I made daily (lots of sugary foods that keep candida busy multiplying and starting the day with acidic espressos on an empty tummy while already dealing with problems of digestion and constipation). I also filled out forms that could help her get a more full picture of my body’s patterns of behavior and any issues or allergies I might already be dealing with. And as my treatment progressed, Sage had me begin reviewing my food journals with specific objectives to reflect on.

The work began immediately, as Sage was able to identify where some of more habitual unhealthy food choices were and provide me with information as to what it did to my digestive system, mood, and energy levels. The second prong to her approach was recognizing the sort of tastes I looked for in my foods and to maintain that integrity when offering me replacement meals and recipes in a full on meal plan. For instance, snacking on salty chips and drinking fruity over-sugary juices got replaced with tasty juicy watermelon slices with lime and tajín. I was so appreciative that the replacement options she created for me were still yummy options! Part of the anxiety I felt around changing my food habits was that I would have to give up the joyful treat of loving the way my food tastes— but Sage was adamant and finding practical and delicious health-conscience options made for me. 

The third prong to her approach was to educate me on the supplements my body needed to go from making 1-2 bowel movements a week to having them routinely everyday. I didn’t believe her when we began, but she made it happen! It has been several consecutive months now and I haven’t missed a day in making a bowel movement. This is something I’ve dealt with since childhood— constipation that has, over a handful of times, resulted in me having to go to urgent care when I couldn’t pass the blockage and buildup myself. It is SO freeing to be living in a body that, for the first time, effectively cycles waste out naturally and without pain. No more laxatives! 

 

I found my time with Sage to be healing on multiple levels. She is an intelligent, culturally aware, and passionate person. I loved learning the interesting histories to the foods and supplements she integrated into my diet, and I enjoyed her willingness to speak honestly and without shame about my habits, goals, and weaknesses. It has been so powerful, changing a major function in my body. I’d been told by western doctors that I’d likely deal with regular IBS pain for the rest of my life. It still astounds me to have daily bowel movements! If you have come here looking for someone to help you with your health in a way that feels accessible to you now, you’re lucky to have found her and I wish you well on your journey. 

Sage imparted the beautiful perspective that feeding my body as an act of love that affects so many other vital things in my life. I am grateful for having had her guidance.”

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--- Desirae Cole, Los Angeles, CA