PROGRAM FAQs
For Gut Rebalancing Protocol [GRP] and Reboot programs
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The Gut Rebalancing Protocol [GRP] runs ONCE a year commencing the first week in September. We open registrations one month prior.
All of our REBOOT programs run three times a year, throughout the year.
Before releasing to the public, we notify those on our PRIORITY LANE mailing list first. Please be aware that we have limited spaces for each intake and our programs usually fill up in 48-hrs.
If you wish to join our PRIORITY LANE for early-bird notifications click HERE -
They vary...
The GRP runs for 77-days.
Other reboot programs run anywhere from 10 to 28 days.
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While ALL programs follow a specific set of procedures (Food and Lifestyle Prescriptions) based on evidence-based science, the GRP implements long-term food and lifestyle changes that have been proven to shift and rebalance the Microbiome towards a healthy state.
It is called a ‘protocol’ as it works on a set of ‘rules and procedures’ for a specific outcome. For example… the protocol to repair a broken bone is a cast, restriction of movement, physical therapy etc. That is what repairs the bone.
So, if you had a broken bone set in a cast… you’d be instructed to stop certain activities such as dancing, jogging etc.
Under normal conditions ‘dancing’ etc. would be healthy pursuits, right? But with a broken leg, they are detrimental to healing. In fact, it would inflame your condition and result in a longer treatment or even adverse long-term effects, right?
It’s not about ‘good’ or ‘bad’ but the ‘rules and procedures’ (protocol) for optimal healing.
The Gut Rebalancing Protocol [GRP] delivers Food prescriptions (menu plans) that focus on a variety of foods, in specific doses, quantity and duration to shift your Microbiome in the direction of a NEW healthy state.
The Lifestyle prescription… coaches you through essential elements - proven techniques - that when done daily and consistently, alongside your Food Prescription… shift your Microbiome in the direction of a NEW healthy state.
The GRP (protocol) only works with the combination of BOTH the Food and Lifestyle Prescriptions. If you’re putting all your ‘eggs’ in the one basket (food) then you are going to be disappointed… as the GRP will NOT work!
The GRP is currently the ONLY comprehensive protocol, of its kind, on offer around the world that has taken evidence-based research about the LIFESTYLE and FOOD elements that rebalance the Microbiome and put it into a step-by-step blueprint to transform your health. But you have to adhere to them as prescribed.
Note that the depending on your health issue(s) and the length of time you have been in this condition, the GRP can completely resolve them or can be ‘the beginning’ to start transforming your health. For example… the time it takes to heal a sprained ankle, compared to healing a simple broken bone, compared to healing multiple comprehensive fractures is different.
Look at the RESULTS that our clients have achieved by implementing the food and lifestyle teachings on the GRP.
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YES…. You’ll have a unique MEMBER HUB account (through our website) where you download and save all program materials. These are yours for LIFE. Your Member hub account is only accessible for the duration of the program or if you continue as a subscription member.
YES… By following the DAILY online video coaching sessions in your Member hub. You can watch, or listen to, at a time that suits you. Your Member hub account is only accessible for the duration of the program or if you continue as a subscription member.
And YES... (optional to join) you’ll be given access to the GUT HEALTH CIRCLE an exclusive community (private FB group) where you can connect with others on the same journey and learn more from the educational 'gut health' posts.
However, you will NOT be alone during your program as you have access to join the weekly group online ZOOM roundtables for practitioner support and expertise. This is where you can ask questions, share ideas, work through challenges and perhaps even gain valuable insights.
If during your program you have a private health question, need advice or support then you can book a 1:1 online consult at a special 50% off member-only discount.
IMPORTANT: All questions are only answered in the weekly Zoom roundtables (timer permitting) or through a paid private consult. Any direct questions, comments or messages to GRP Practitioners, received through the private Facebook group (Gut Health Circle), by email, text or messenger etc. are not responded to.
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Please allow us to ask you a question… “If you wanted to develop a set of super toned body in 10 weeks and learn how to maintain your super toned body … how much time each day do you think you’d need to dedicate?”
10-mins a day?
No… more like 30 to 45-mins a day – and that’s just for ‘your workout program’ not the food you have to shop for or prepare. Or to implement lifestyle changes.
Our members tell us that the done-for-them meal planners and shopping lists SAVE them so much TIME, that they are able and willing to dedicate more time to themselves.
This is what our members say…
“I have freed up SO much time by removing the daily thinking and shopping trip deciding “What shall I make for breakfast, lunch & dinner” to now, never having to think what to have for meals and snacks or what to buy”
“No more time wasted searching for meal ideas on the web, recipe books, magazines etc. with all the recipes provided. And the added benefit of not having to wonder if meals/snacks meet nutritional requirements”
“From traipsing shopping aisles, wondering what to buy, to now shopping with a list knowing exactly what to buy and saving money by buying only what I need, I save $50-$80pw on groceries. Not to mention the time dividend!”
“The weekend essential preparation list provided is magic… I put some music on and enjoy spending time on Saturday in preparation for a smooth-sailing stress-free week”
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Our programs are 100% plant-based.
Not because we believe in ANY particular way of eating but evidence is clear… the dose, variety and type of fibre, prebiotic and probiotic foods have been clinically proven to positively impact the Gut Microbiome which positively impacts YOUR health!
But don’t worry because 95%+ of our members come to us as meat-eaters and every single one of them felt daunted by the thought of ‘just plants’. They had visions of their plate consisting of a few Brussel sprouts, boiled cauliflower and some tasteless Tofu!!
But they soon realize (actually in the first week) that ALL the meals are amazingly delicious - a taste sensation - and they’ve never had so much variety with recipes including cuisines from around the world.
We provide you with easy to make, nutritious and delicious recipes designed for optimal Gut Health along with weekly meal plans and shopping lists!!
Post-program we do NOT endorse any 'one-way' of eating or 'diet'.
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The lifestyle components of programs are based on evidence-based science. They're translated into ‘doable’ lifestyle actions that have been proven to positively impact the Gut Microbiome.
Examples of some of the Lifestyle elements covered in our programs… Digestive Dominoes, Digital Hygiene, Optimal Sleep practices, Movement & Hydration, Stress Awareness, Relief and Stress Management.
Lifestyle elements have a critical impact on the function of your Microbiome and it’s homeostasis (balance). Without implementing these actions, the programs will not be effective.
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You will have the opportunity to become a subscription member (or continue if you're already one) for a monthly fee. This will give you continued access to the Gut Health Circle community.
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Natalie only consults with women who are participating in, or have done, one of her programs and continue as a subscription member.
The addition of private consults, for program members, are at a discounted rate of 50% off. Discounted rates start from $100 per 30-minutes.
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As you can imagine, there a many types of health conditions, which makes it impossible in this FAQ to tell you whether a program will be suitable for you.
However, we know that common sense will prevail, and you understand that no program is a 'miracle cure’.
You're certainly not going to eliminate a long-standing, multiple health issues, or a chronic health condition, in weeks.
However, you will be equipped with knowledge to continue your health journey.
You should consult with your doctor/specialist to ensure that our program is right for you, before joining.
However, you don't need to WAIT until you get a health condition to do the one of our programs. You may just be at that stage of life where things are starting to fall apart and want to be proactive in prevention and head into your next 30, 40 or 50 more years of life being ridiculously healthy!
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Many members commence one of our programs taking medications. If you are taking any medication, you must follow your doctor/specialist advice and don’t stop taking just because you’re doing one of our programs.
Many members comment that as they progress through our programs, and their condition improves, they work with their doctor/specialist to adjust their medication and in some cases gradually wean off medication all together.
Members are over the moon when they are able to reduce/stop medications such as PPI’s, Hypertensive meds, Diabetes meds, HRT, Pain relief meds, Anti-depressants, Anti-anxiety meds and so much more under the guidance of their doctor/specialist. See their RESULTS
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PTSD & Trauma and Life’s stressors disrupt the Gut Microbiome’s equilibrium, having far reaching implications for your overall health, this includes anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions.
While the Food and Lifestyle elements of our programs will certainly provide numerous benefits… the process of rebalancing the Microbiome can affect emotional and mental health at critical points during the ‘Gut remodelling’ process. Thus, we highly recommend that you have one-on-one support to maximize benefits and minimize any fight, flee, freeze or hypervigilance reactions.
If you have PTSD, Trauma (old or current) Anxiety, Depression or any other mental health condition by joining you agree that you will have mental health support services with a licensed counsellor/psychologist, in place, for personal support while doing one our our programs.
NOTE: We have a licenced counsellor in our team should you wish to access during your program should you not have your own services.
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Absolutely, you can eat the same meals together and just add in a few extras for your partner/kids.
Our members all agree… “The recipes are so versatile that you can the whole family can eat the same (so no extra cooking), I just added in a few other things 'extras' for kid's and husband”And as one our members told us… “Oh and just for you women who are worried about the health of their husbands too - my husband lost over 9kg and is SO much healthier - and that was JUST from eating this way at home, I am not sure what he got up to at work”
In regard to the online lifestyle elements, you have the choice to share with your partner, however ONLY the person has purchased the program can join the Gut Health Circle (Facebook) and access the Member Hub.
We ask that you purchase one program per your immediate family (not siblings, adult kids, parents etc) and do not share the materials otherwise.
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Absolutely!!
Unlike many recipes that cater for 3, 4 or 5 people ALL of our recipes and shopping lists cater for 1-person. This way you can easily buy food and make recipes without wasting money, time or throwing out excess food.
But if you have a partner, or family, you can easily double, triple, quadruple recipes, or your shopping. All you need to know is your times tables ;-)
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NO, NO and NO!!
Because the word DIET means... "to restrict oneself to small amounts or special kinds of food in order to lose weight"
There is NO restriction to the amount of food you can eat. In fact our members say they've never eaten so much!
While heading towards a HEALTHY weight is certainly a positive side-effect of our programs, it is NOT the focus.
Our programs focus on Food AND Lifestyle strategies that create a healthy flourishing Microbiome which equals a healthy flourishing YOU and a healthy weight!Where the our programs are COMPLETELY different is… rather being restrictive and limiting - they are INCLUSIVE and LIMITLESS - opening you up to an array of delicious meals. So rather than going 'without' you go 'WITH'.
WHY?
Because your Gut Microbiome relies on a range of different types of fibre alongside macro and micronutrients in divided doses for optimal recovery and function.
Many people don’t realise that ‘restrictive’ forms of eating ONLY exacerbate symptoms.
In fact, the latest science clearly states… “Unfortunately, we often see people following a very strict… diet… only sticking to a small number of foods that they feel safe eating. While, this may be helping in the short term, long term the lack of variety can have a negative effect”.
This is because the ‘restriction’ further damages the Gut Microbiome, the foundation of good gut health.
If you would like to read about our members’ experiences read their RESULTS
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You will download your recipes, meal plans, shopping lists and corresponding guidelines/handbooks to your own computer and these are yours forever so you can return your saved content, that you’ve downloaded, any time.
Coaching videos, Zoom roundtables, Podcasts, Access to the Gut Health Library and membership in the Gut Health Circle (FB) are only accessible during your program, unless you continue as a subscription member.
Please note you are responsible for downloading and saving all program materials. These are ONLY issued once. We highly recommend you keep a backup of all these materials as any request to re-issue any lost, misplaced, stolen or destroyed materials attracts a $30AUD per document fee. This is non-negotiable. This is payable prior to being re-issued.
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During our programs you will learn ALL about the FOODS that can replace many of the supplements you may be on.
We love what our members tell us after the GRP…”Supplement queen to supplement clean - goodbye old crutches! No longer required thank you! $1000's of dollars wasted over the years”
For individuals who have chronic health issues, the use of clinical therapeutic probiotics can assist some conditions.
If you wish to discuss, you have the opportunity to book a paid private Initial Assessment Consult with Natalie during your program. If deemed that clinical probiotics will be effective for your condition they will be prescribed. Members will be set up with a wholesale account to buy at cost. We do not make any commission from the sale. -
Apart from the basic kitchen pots, pans and cooking utensils you WILL need a high-quality blender/food processor that is made from glass or metal (not plastic) and one that can blend hot or cold ingredients.
A Nutribullet, while good for blending small simple things, will NOT be adequate for bigger blending jobs.
If you can’t afford to buy one, check out online marketplaces or ask a friend if you can borrow theirs!
We highly recommend a machine such as a Thermomix which can be bought new or second-hand.
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ABSOLUTELY as ALL our programs are online!!
Our programs have been successfully done by members from around the world, which to date, include Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA, Japan, Vietnam, Vanuatu, UK, Scotland, Switzerland and Germany. NOTE: the program is in English only.
In addition, the recipes refer to quantities in teaspoons, tablespoons and cups – which are internationally recognized. And other measurements are both metric and imperial e.g. 100g (3.5oz)
All food items are listed in the most commonly used names in different countries e. g. Capsicum/Bell Pepper, Coriander/Cilantro, Eggplant/Aubergine etc.
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Laptop or Desktop Computer – to access the Member Hub to download files, open pdf files, fill in online documents and listen to podcasts. Needless to say, for an online course, daily access to technology is a must. You will need to be able to have enough memory on your device to download multiple zip files up to 20MB. Note: iPad etc. do not allow fill-in capability for some forms.
Mobile phone or iPad/Tablet (or computer/laptop) to access the Gut Health Circle to access educational content (optional to join).
Internet Access – our programs are delivered online. Most standard internet connections cope fine with this.
An Email Account (where you can reliably be reached) as we email ZOOM invites.
Adobe – since handbooks, meal plans etc come in PDF format, you’ll need a program to open pdf files. As this is such a common file type, most recent computers have this software preinstalled.
Microsoft Word (for windows or Mac) or Google Docs – to fill in online documents. If you don’t already have a word processing programme on your computer, Google Docs is a free and reliable online alternative.
Access to a Printer – we highly recommend that the meal plans. are printed. If you don’t have one at home, many places, such as local libraries, have printing services for a small fee.
In addition to equipment, some people can be a little worried about their ‘computer literacy’ and whether it will stand in the way of successfully completing a program but if you can do the following, you’ll be fine…
Watch a Video on YouTube. Watch a video through a website.
Join a ZOOM video call with your camera and microphone on.
Use the FB app on your computer, tablet, or mobile/cell phone
Fill in a document in Word Processing/PDF software.
Search in our Gut Health Library – it is basically like searching the internet but in one place.
If you have the basic technical setup required and you have digital literacy (and willing to learn!!) you can participate our programs!
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About 90% of the ingredients can be purchased from ANY supermarket around the globe!!
We know first-hand because to date our members have come from all over the world... Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA, Japan, Vietnam, Vanuatu, UK, Switzerland and Germany.
They have bought ingredients from local supermarkets such as. Coles, Aldi, Woolworths, Sainsbury's, Aeon, Daiei, Edeka, Safeway, SuperValu, IGA, Fresh St. Market, etc. just to name a few.
Some ingredients such as Enoki Mushrooms, Tamari, Nutritional/Savoury Yeast flakes, Miso paste, Hemp seeds etc. may not be available from local supermarkets but our members have been able to purchase from speciality stores, bulk stores, health food stores, Asian supermarkets or online.
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NO, but you can if you want to, it’s a personal choice.
We do specify certain INGREDIENTS that must be organic e.g. some beans, legumes, grains etc. But other fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds can be non-organic.
On our programs, you will learn how you can reduce pesticides when preparing food and where to strategically spend your money on the products that need to be organic!
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Our members tell us that our programs are budget friendly and that, on average, an individual saves $80 to $100AUD a week on their grocery bill.
However, having said that, adding new ingredients to your pantry will incur an initial cost but these items will last you months, if not a year e.g., Braggs Apple Cider Vinegar (946ml) = approx. $19, will last you a year!
To help ease the initial costs involved, we provide weekly shopping lists that give you the minimum amount of an ingredient you need for the week. E.g., ½ cup Chia seeds. This allows you to go to a bulk store and buy ‘just’ that rather than having to purchase a whole packet.
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Absolutely!!
In fact, we encourage it.
Going out to cafes, restaurants, with friends and family is a part of life and social connections are GREAT for your Gut Microbiome!
But it may require navigating SOME change i.e. instead of meeting friends for a cake and coffee you may just have the coffee.
When you're prioritizing your health and incorporating health-supporting behaviours it involves making change.
Imagine if you broke your leg and you were in a wheelchair but wanted to eat out.
It would require navigating change, right?
You’d have to think about whether the restaurant has got disabled access, or parking nearby or room in the restaurant to navigate your wheelchair and provide space for it at the table etc.
You’d have to pre-plan, right?
Well the same applies when doing our programs. Just a little pre-planning and you’ll enjoy a fantastic meal and wonderful social connection, fun, laughter, etc. which is SO GOOD for your Microbiome!
Recent research suggests...
..."that human interactions, especially sustained, influence the gut microbiota"
In fact, so much so that the research concluded that...
"Social relationships exert a sustained influence on human health and mortality with social isolation having strong negative consequences and high levels of social integration far exceeding the protective effects on mortality of individual level behaviours such as smoking cessation or maintaining a normal weight"
Let's face it... social events (weddings, engagements, birthdays etc.), work functions, travel etc. are an inevitable part of life... and FUN!
And eating out means no prep time, no washing up and relaxing!!
So is eating out and socializing during our programs doable?
Yes…VERY do-able AND we encourage it!!!
AND lucky for you, you live in a time that it's never been easier to request a change to a menu item when socializing with the advent of so many eating styles and/or allergies … gluten free, vegan, WFPB, vegetarian, keto, paleo, raw, nut allergies etc.
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YES... but you don’t have to if you don’t want to.
In fact, coffee (on its own) has been shown to increase populations of Bifidobacterium... a species known to improve gut barrier function, accelerate intestinal transit and reduce visceral hypersensitivity.
You’ll learn ALL about WHEN the best time to drink your coffee or tea (for your Microbiome and health) while on our programs!
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You will be asked to focus on particular slow-paced gentle movements (exercise) that research has proven promotes microbial diversity and increases beneficial gut bacteria populations, reduce inflammation and start the regeneration (healing) of the gut wall.
Imagine if you were trying to heal a broken leg. You wouldn't go jogging, dancing or hiking, would you?
These 'exercises' aren't conducive to healing a broken leg, right? They’re not ‘bad’ forms of exercise but they don’t help with the healing of a broken bone, in fact they will make it much worse!!
Well, it’s the same with our programs. There are ‘specific’ movements that assist with healing and others that disrupt the Microbiome. During our programs you’ll learn all about this and guided what to do.
Just a quick heads up… if you’re doing strength training, relaxing swimming, yoga or pilates then it is fine to continue, but you will need to STOP any types of endurance or high intensity exercise programs/routines/sessions during our programs if you want results! -
When dealing with a disrupted Gut Microbiome, alcohol increases ‘endotoxins’ contributing to the inflammatory process.
Think of putting a fire-starter on a fire!!
Alcohol has been shown to acutely disrupt gut barrier function (and increase intestinal permeability) and can alter the immune system by affecting the immune systems luminal interface (intestinal lining) thus increasing intestinal permeability and antigen exposure which increases the risk of disease flare.
But, we don't dictate 'no alcohol' forever but we will teach you all about alcohol and its effects on your gut health and overall health... and you will decide for yourself.
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Here is one I am sure you will like (it's a big hit with little kids and big kids) CHUNKY SPICED TOMATO AND CORN SOUP
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Yes, there are gluten-free options for ALL our recipes.
However, in some recipes we ask you to include organic wholemeal uncontaminated Oats (i.e., oats NOT rolled in wheat or other gluten containing grain).
The safety of oats in individuals on gluten-free diets has been extensively investigated and evidence shows that the various components of uncontaminated oats (those not rolled in wheat, rye, barley etc.) have important components such as dietary fibre and beta-glucans (β-glucans), a prebiotic source. Research has shown that β-Glucans are a strong immune stimulants, antagonistic against benign and malignant tumors, can lower cholesterol and triglycerides, assist in maintaining blood glucose balance, protect against harmful pathogens, and improve gut integrity. The gut microbiota metabolizes the oat’s components to produce Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs) that have a strong anti-inflammatory effect on the body and may help individuals following a gluten-free diet.
The protein in oats - Avenin - has been extensively evaluated and studies show that the immune activation sequences present in gliadin (gluten) are missing in avenin. However, it is necessary to understand that there are many varieties and cultivars and thus oats may contain various amino acid sequences and thus different immunoreactivities. Thus, it is essential to thoroughly study the variety of oats being used before including it in a gluten-free diet. You should always discuss the safety of oats for your individual circumstances with your health care specialist. Alternatives are given for each recipe containing oats.
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Yes, they are ‘dairy free’ but just so you know, we are NOT against dairy!!
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AUSTRALIA ONLY... Natalie is a registered provider with most private health funds.
In regard to rebates for Nutritional Private Consults (if you book while on a program)…
Benefits are only payable for Nutrition private one-on-one consultations if they are under your Extras cover.
Benefits are not payable for video consultations (telehealth) except where they are included under your 'extras' cover.
Generally benefits are only payable once per day for the same provider.
In Australia, some private health insurers may pay benefits towards a health management program that is intended to manage a specific health condition(s) identified by your GP before you start the program. However, these benefits are not available on all private health insurers extras cover. Please check your cover summary to see what’s included under your cover.
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Please see our refund policy (clause 14) in our T&Cs HERE
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Head to our CONTACT page and choose from our (free) online contact form or book a (paid) exploratory call with Natalie.
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The first question asked and the last question we answer.
Why?
Because it doesn’t matter if our programs cost - $10, $100, $500, $1000 or $10,000+… if you are not ready to commit to prioritizing your health, then you’re wasting your money!
I know it sounds like we're trying to put you off... but we want to be totally upfront and make it very clear — there are NO quick fixes for health ailments you’ve had for years.
Health doesn't decline overnight, it takes years.
We’re confident you will get RESULTS -- but it means YOU taking daily action and implementing BOTH the food and lifestyle elements we teach you. Seamlessly adding them to your day and putting them ON TOP of your (endless) ‘to-do’ list!
So, in answer to your question… “How much are the programs?”…
Our programs are NOT a cost, they're an investment. This is not ‘sales speak’... it literally is an investment in your ‘now’ health and ‘future’ health. In fact, we’ll be as bold as to say… that it will outperform and be cheaper than any health insurance policy you have!!!
Let us ask you... HOW much are your health issues costing you, in the way of…
⊕ Supplements?
⊕ Over-the-counter and prescribed Medications?
⊕ Doctor and Specialist appointments?
⊕ Treatments?
⊕ New wardrobe items?
Or HOW much are they costing you with…
⊕ Your relationships – with your partner, kids, relatives, friends and colleagues.
⊕ Taking time off work, or not being able to work? Being in fear of not being able to work!
⊕ To your self-esteem and confidence?
⊕ Your ability to function on a daily basis?
When you add up ALL these costs to your hip-pocket, physical and mental wellbeing… we think that you will find that your investment in any one of our programs is well worth it with the inclusion of…
⊕ Exclusive access to the online Gut Health Circle community group
⊕ Weekly ZOOM Group roundtables for Practitioner expertise.
⊕ Daily online group coaching, meal plans, shopping lists, guidelines and/or handbooks.
⊕ Pre-start daily group online coaching and materials.
⊕ 50% off any private consults (if you want private support) and a wholesale account for clinical probiotics (if required)
⊕ 15% discount on Voi products
AND because you SAVE an average of $10-$14 a day (while on our programs with no food wastage, no buying lunch, snacks etc.) that’s dollars in your pocket that go towards paying for your program.
So how much?
Programs start from $59.95AUD.
How do I join?…
We open our doors to individuals on our MAILING LIST, and our members, first. Then we release to the public after that.
Just a heads up… as places on programs are capped, they usually fill-up in 48-hrs, so we don't often get to release them to the public.
If you would like an early-bird notification, then we recommend joining our PRIORITY LANE mailing list... click HERE to join.