Sip and Chat: Teatime with Our Founder, Elle-Lou Diddams
Hi Elle-Lou, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you became a naturopath in Perth?
Hi! I’m Elle-Lou, a Perth local with a deep passion for holistic health. I graduated with a Bachelor of Health Science in Naturopathy and have been practising for over five years. Before that, I worked in the wellness industry, which gave me a solid foundation in understanding the importance of a holistic approach to health. My practice focuses on gut health, women’s health, skin health, and mental health. I love helping my clients achieve optimal well-being through natural therapies.
What inspired you to specialise in gut health and womans health in your naturopathic practice?
My own health journey has been a huge inspiration. I struggled with digestive issues and hormonal imbalances for years. Discovering the healing power of naturopathy changed my life, and I wanted to share that with others. I’ve done extensive training in gut health and women’s health because I believe these areas are foundational to overall wellness. Seeing my clients transform their health by addressing these core issues is incredibly rewarding.
How does your naturopathic approach differ when addressing gut health issues?
naturopathy, we aim to treat the root cause, not just the symptoms. For gut health, this means looking at diet, lifestyle, stress levels, and even emotional well-being. I use functional testing to get a clear picture of what’s happening in the gut, and then we work on a tailored plan that includes dietary changes, lifestyle modification, customised herbal medicine, and supplements if needed. My goal is to restore balance and promote long-term gut health.
What are some common women’s health concerns you see in your Perth practice, and how do you address them?
Common issues include hormonal imbalances, menstrual irregularities, and menopausal symptoms. I use a holistic approach that combines nutrition, lifestyle adjustments, and natural therapies. For example, for hormonal imbalances, I might recommend herbal remedies, specific nutrients, and stress management techniques. Education and support are also key components of my approach, empowering women to take control of their health.
Can you share some dietary support tips that support both gut health and overall well-being?
Absolutely! A wholefood diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats is essential. I am in no way shape or form recommending restrictive, calorie counting diets to anyone that walks through my door. I take a full dietary assessment and work out easy ways for individuals to make some healthy, sustainable changes that will benefit them and their lifestyle. There is no one size fits all when it comes to diet, however if it is 80 percent wholefoods with plenty of protein and healthy fats and water then you’ve got the basics right. Fermented foods like yoghurt, kefir, and sauerkraut are fantastic for gut health as they provide beneficial probiotics. Also, staying hydrated and minimising processed foods, sugar, and alcohol can make a significant difference. I often recommend specific teas, like green tea and fennel tea, which can support digestion and gut health.
How does stress impact gut health, and what natural remedies do you recommend for stress management?
Stress has a huge impact on gut health; it can disrupt digestion, alter gut flora, and increase inflammation. I recommend mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises. Herbal adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola can help the body adapt to stress. I also encourage my clients to find joy and relaxation in their daily lives, whether through hobbies, spending time in nature, or connecting with loved ones.
What role do probiotics play in maintaining a healthy gut, and how do you incorporate them into your clients routines?
Probiotics are crucial for a healthy gut microbiome. They help balance the gut flora and support digestion and immune function. I usually recommend getting probiotics from natural sources like fermented foods, but sometimes supplements are necessary, especially if there’s been a disruption to the gut flora. It’s important to choose the right strains, so I often use microbiome testing to tailor probiotic recommendations.
How can someone interested in naturopathy start their journey with you in Perth?
The first step is to book an initial consultation through my website, where we’ll discuss your health concerns and goals. From there, I’ll create a personalised treatment plan that might include dietary advice, lifestyle changes, and natural therapies. I believe in a collaborative approach, so we’ll work together to achieve the best outcomes for your health. You can also get in touch to learn more about my services or ask any questions.