Episode Overview 

In this inspiring episode of Collective Wellness Revival, host Shannon McLay reconnects with holistic nutrition expert Shanah Bell. They explore Shanah's lifelong journey with celiac disease, her passion for holistic and somatic wellness, and her mission to empower individuals to take charge of their health naturally and affordably. This rich conversation spans personal healing, epigenetics, budget-friendly nutrition tips, the power of community, and the need to challenge conventional medicine by embracing ancient healing modalities.

What You'll Hear In This Episode

• Shanah's diagnosis with celiac disease in childhood and how it shaped her approach to food and health

• Her transition from pre-med to holistic health due to a misalignment with traditional medical systems

• How living on food stamps and Medicaid as a single parent fueled her mission to make healthy eating accessible

• The philosophy behind Blue Zones and why "poor people's food" leads to longevity

• Practical tips for eating well on a tight budget using dried beans, rice varieties, and spices

• The six pillars of lifestyle medicine that guide Shanah's work today

• The critical role of social-emotional connections and slowing down in holistic health

• Why trusting ancient wellness practices and listening to your body matter

Key Takeaways

• Food is energy, and understanding how it affects the body can transform health outcomes

• Spices aren't just flavor enhancers—they support gut health and count toward your plant diversity intake

• You don't need a big budget to eat well; staples like lentils, rice, and seasonal produce can be powerful

• Chronic inflammation from ignored sensitivities (like gluten) can lead to more severe health problems over time

• Lifestyle medicine's six pillars (nutrition, movement, stress reduction, sleep, toxin reduction, and community) are all interconnected

• Ancient healing practices such as acupuncture, sound therapy, and herbal medicine offer powerful alternatives to pharmaceuticals

• Personal health advocacy is crucial—trust your instincts, question medications, and prioritize wellness routines

Notes/Final Thoughts 

Shanah and Shannon bring heartfelt and practical wisdom in this episode, encouraging listeners to slow down, reassess their habits, and reconnect with natural approaches to wellness. Their conversation is a reminder that true healing often starts from within and that it's never too early (or too late) to choose a different path. With warmth, candor, and deep knowledge, Shanah inspires others to think critically about their health and make choices that support long-term vitality.

Ways to Connect with Shanah

• Visit Shanah's website: https://www.Kaibellhealth.com

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/KaibellHealth

• Email: info@kaibellhealth.com