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Online - 6-week programme

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Heart Health Programme

January 27, 2025

Unlock the Secrets to Lifelong Heart Health: Did you know that early detection is the key to preventing a staggering 30% of cardiovascular deaths in Scotland alone? Our reactive healthcare system often waits for incidents to occur before providing crucial diagnostics like carotid scans, leaving a gap in proactive care. Imagine a future where you take charge of your heart's well-being before crisis strikes, adding not just years but decades to your life. Join us in embracing proactive cardiovascular health and discover our transformative Cardiometabolic Health Programme—a 6-week personalised journey crafted to optimise your heart's vitality.  Let’s pave the way for a vibrant, healthier tomorrow together. Secure your spot now for the programme starting on the 27th of January 2025!

Here's what our participants from the first edition have to say about their experience:

"I wish I had done a course such as this years ago. Fascinating insight into heart health, how it works, what causes issues, and how to address these across a broad spectrum of topics." - Testimonial from a satisfied participant.

"The course content was extremely valuable, especially topics like supplements for heart health, stress reduction, and breathing techniques. The presenters' knowledge and expertise were excellent, and their friendly, non-judgemental approach made the learning experience even more enriching."

"I particularly enjoyed the sessions focused on educating us about how the body works and the impact of our eating habits. The individual styles of the presenters were commendable, and the interactive format of the course kept me engaged throughout."

"The workshop left me inspired to continue the journey towards better heart health. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to prevent heart and health issues and not just fix them."

What's included in the Heart Health 6-week online group Programme?

Please note that the assessments listed below are available only in person at the Edinburgh Health office.

The suggested date for the blood test and other assessments is 11th January, between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

  • Extended Metabolic Panel (including phlebotomy services)
  • Carotid Intima Media Thickness Ultrasound (CIMT) Examination
  • Body Composition Assessment
  • Blood pressure, blood oxygenation, and heart rate variability measurements as part of your assessments
  • 6 intensive online group meetings, each lasting 90 minutes
  • Guidance on analysing your results


Programme Overview:

  • Week 1: Understanding Your Cardiometabolic Risks and an Introduction to the Cardiometabolic Diet
  • Week 2: Insights into Insulin and Blood Glucose
  • Week 3: Targeted Nutrition Strategies for Heart Health and Personalised Target Setting & Planning
  • Week 4: Inflammation and the Gut-Heart Connection
  • Week 5: Effective Exercise and Stress Management
  • Week 6: Nurturing Sleep and Emotional Health

The full value of the programme—including all tests, assessments, and six expert-led sessions by four different practitioners—is estimated at £1,990. We’re offering it at a special rate of £588 if you sign up by the end of the year!Our meetings will take place online every Monday from 6:00 PM to 6:30 PM. The programme starts on 27th January, with the final meeting on 3rd March

Charmaine Shepherd IFMCP, B.Sc. Biomed., N.dip. Ac. MBAcC

As a fully certified Functional Medicine Practitioner, I am dedicated to helping you take control of your own health. I firmly believe in supporting the body’s natural ability to heal through the use of natural remedies, acupuncture, biofeedback, nutrition and lifestyle. As it is essential that you feel in control of your treatment process, I approach your healthcare in a sensitive and holistic manner. With more than 24 000 successful treatments under my belt, I have vast experience in treating a wide variety of health issues. I believe that each individual's health issues are caused by a unique set of factors, and that the key to a successful outcome is correctly identifying, understanding and addressing those factors. Most people that come to me for help have complex, chronic problems involving autoimmunity, chronic inflammation, persistent fatigue, digestive issues, difficulty overcoming chronic infection, reactivity to foods or factors in their environment, or other complex issues.


Jackie Forbes

As a Registered Nutritional Therapist (BANT & CNHC) I help clients address a wide range of chronic health issues including fatigue, digestive disorders, cardiovascular, weight gain and skin issues through to metabolic disease, autoimmune conditions and hormonal imbalance.  I also provide advice on general wellbeing, knowing what to eat or to simply kick start a healthier way of life. My approach is personalised, and specific to individual requirements. Every day we are bombarded with 'health' buzz words and an array of the latest diet trends. The road to health need not be so complicated! Small changes can make an amazing difference.  Food and diet is my main focus but I regularly recommend functional tests and supplements as part of a personalised protocol.

Jean Dow (BSc (Hons), BA (Hons), MSc)

As a medical herbalist and functional medicine practitioner, I bring together the rich tradition of herbal remedies with modern medical insights to deliver comprehensive healthcare solutions. My expertise lies in understanding the intricate connections between botanical medicine and human physiology, allowing me to address health concerns at their root causes.

I am committed to crafting individualized treatment plans that honor each person's unique biology and circumstances, aiming for long-term wellness rather than short-term symptom relief. Through compassionate guidance and evidence-based practice, I empower my clients to take control of their health journey. Continual learning and staying abreast of the latest research ensure that I provide the most effective and up-to-date care possible.

Joanna Bednarek

As a certified health coach trained by the Institute of Functional Medicine, in my practice, I embrace the revolutionary approach of health coaching, which places you, the client, at the centre of your health journey. Health coaching goes beyond simply providing advice; it's about empowering you to take ownership of your health and well-being. Picture having a dedicated ally by your side, guiding and supporting you as you strive towards your health goals. At the core of my coaching philosophy is positive psychology – the belief that focusing on your strengths and successes is crucial for creating lasting change. Rather than dwelling on past setbacks, I help you harness your strengths to achieve the outcomes you desire. Furthermore, my coaching approach is firmly grounded in evidence-based strategies from behavioural science. By understanding how habits are formed and how to enact sustainable changes, I assist you in implementing practical steps to enhance your health. I take a holistic approach to health coaching, addressing all aspects of well-being, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management, and social connections. Recognizing that health encompasses more than just the absence of disease, I work with you to cultivate a balanced, fulfilling life that supports your overall well-being.

Start Today!

Let's work together to see how I can help. I welcome clients from every race, creed, colour, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation and gender expression. I provide a safe and empathic space for anyone who is committed to working with me to improve their health.

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