The Latitude Effect: How Bali's Environment Nurtured My Mother's Healing

I recently stumbled upon a fascinating article exploring the concept of "global healing zones," designated areas worldwide believed to possess unique environmental and cultural factors promoting well-being. This idea resonated deeply with a recent experience close to my heart: my mother's transformative journey in Bali.

Cafe Organic, Seminyak 

Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis during my sixth-grade year, my mother faced a life-altering challenge. But my mother is a force of nature. Instead of succumbing, she embarked on a relentless quest for well-being. From embracing the Wahls Protocol to exploring every biohacking trend imaginable – gluten-free diets, red light therapy, hydrogen water – she became her own dedicated researcher, determined to defy the conventional narrative of MS. I've witnessed her unwavering commitment over the years, her fierce resolve to not become defined by her diagnosis. While her lifestyle changes brought significant improvements – she remained active and mobile, thankfully avoiding the wheelchair and vision loss that can accompany MS – a persistent undercurrent of chronic fatigue and recurring health issues lingered. Despite diligently nourishing her body and mind, a sense of optimal well-being remained elusive while she lived in the United States.

Then, a spark of inspiration ignited within me: Bali. I knew she would be captivated by its magic. The Balinese people exude unparalleled warmth and kindness, genuine smiles, and reverence for family, community, and spirituality that is palpable. And the island itself? A sensory symphony. Imagine toes sinking into warm sand as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues, the air thick with a sense of peace. And the food! Especially in areas like Canggu, a haven of macro-friendly and vegetarian restaurants, she discovered a paradise of delicious, allergy-friendly, natural, and surprisingly affordable meals.

Avocado Salad from a Beach Shack, Sukutara Kitchen

Hesitant at first, she agreed to a two-week trip, comforted by the idea of exploring this new world with me. As the days unfolded, I witnessed a subtle yet profound shift. The Balinese sunshine seemed to infuse her with a newfound vitality. Embracing the natural rhythm of the island, she found joy in movement, accompanying me on long walks through the hills of Canggu and Seminyak. An impulsive suggestion to extend her stay met with an unexpected "why not?" As I continued my own travels to India, she remained. One month blossomed into two, and she was reluctant to leave by the end.

Our phone calls became a testament to her transformation. I'd picture her savoring flavorful curries with sweet potatoes and cauliflower in charming local restaurants, a picture of serenity and contentment. Gone was the stress of managing everything back home; here, in Bali, she breathed freely. Her health underwent a remarkable resurgence, almost paradoxically, without the constant barrage of supplements or the strict raw vegan diet she had previously adhered to (a change I gently encouraged, introducing her to the benefits of lean protein like chicken and fish, which undoubtedly contributed to her renewed energy and mental clarity).

Typical Day by the Pool, Casa Artista

Then, the serendipitous discovery of the article on global healing zones struck me with full force. My mother! This concept of healing through environment – the nutrient-rich food (how broken is our American food system that so many grapple with chronic illness?), the pristine water, the nurturing behavior of the Balinese people (their genuine kindness and unwavering helpfulness are truly remarkable), and the radiant climate. The abundant sunshine, a natural source of vital Vitamin D, and the accessibility of holistic healing centers – she even connected with a gifted practitioner who guided her through internal trauma work, fostering a shift towards a more positive and resilient mindset, a change I could see ripple through her interactions with me and my father. And the ocean, with its therapeutic salt-infused air.

One particular passage in the article resonated with a powerful "aha!" moment: "Some autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS) have a well-known latitude gradient – MS is significantly less common in sunny, tropical regions than in high latitudes with long dark winters" (Olos, 2025). It was as if a lightbulb illuminated years of observation. The sunshine! Could this be a key factor in alleviating her chronic symptoms? Scientific research supports this connection. A 2018 study published in PMC National Institutes of Health highlights how Vitamin D is crucial in regulating the immune system and how its deficiency can exacerbate neuroinflammation, a key component in MS. The study even delves into the intricate relationship between Vitamin D, gut permeability, and inflammatory responses in the central nervous system, suggesting a direct link between this essential nutrient and the course of autoimmune conditions like MS.

This begs the question: could a long-term solution lie in embracing a life in a global healing zone like Bali? While the logistics of such a move are complex, this experience has ignited a profound sense of hope within me. Hope for a more holistic pathway to healing for my mother, whose optimal well-being is my deepest wish. This personal journey fuels my own aspirations to become a functional medicine practitioner, empowering others facing metabolic and chronic challenges to discover that they don't have to be defined by their pain or reliant solely on conventional pharmaceuticals. The internet can feel like an overwhelming labyrinth of healing modalities, but my mother's experience unequivocally demonstrates the potent medicine of sunshine and the profound impact of a supportive environment. Global healing zones may indeed hold the key to unlocking well-being for so many.

How Embracing Fats and Unlocking the Secrets of Metabolism Transformed My Travel Experience

 For years, my relationship with food and my body felt like a relentless pendulum swing. The scale would tip one way, then the other, fueled by a history of eating disorder struggles and the chaotic reality of a life lived on the move. Hopping from country to country, sometimes spending just days in a new location, wreaked havoc on my eating habits. Time zone changes blurred meal times, and the constant novelty of different cuisines meant my body never quite knew what to expect. One week it might be a valiant attempt at healthy eating; the next, an unplanned indulgence to keep up with the local culture. This constant flux felt like my body was perpetually in "pendulum mode," never truly finding a stable rhythm. Would tomorrow bring a restrictive diet or a chicken liver and olive oil feast? The uncertainty was exhausting.

Kuchmachi (Georgian Chicken Liver) and Walnut Bazhe 

Driven by a desire for more than just fleeting control, I now embark on a path to become a nutritionist, currently immersed in the fascinating world of biology at the University of Alaska. I recently stumbled upon a free course on fat metabolism, and as someone with prior nutrition knowledge, I was intrigued. While the basic concepts – like our bodies being primarily composed of triglycerides and their role in metabolism – weren't entirely new, it was incredibly valuable to have everything reinforced, primarily through the lens of my genetics and anatomy studies. The intricate dance of hormones in processing food, particularly fats, became even clearer. Ghrelin and leptin, the gatekeepers of hunger and fullness, and the surprisingly significant role of cortisol in metabolism – it all painted a much more complex picture than simple calorie counting.

Currently, I've found a sense of stability through a ketogenic approach, which, at its core, is a low-carbohydrate diet. Think of it as a more nuanced version of the Atkins diet, where I prioritize protein and non-starchy, low-glycemic vegetables to encourage my body to enter ketosis. I also implemented time-restricted eating to further quiet the constant "food noise" that had plagued me. Knowing I have a specific daily meal window, regardless of late-night hunger pangs, has been transformative. I finally understood that those nights consuming a large meal right before bed sabotaged my well-being. My sleep was restless, and I'd wake up feeling heavy and bloated, my body working overtime to digest instead of resting.

One of the most crucial realizations on this ketogenic journey has been the absolute necessity of incorporating healthy fats. They are not the enemy; they are the fuel that keeps my energy levels stable and, surprisingly, helps curb cravings. Because healthy fats take longer to digest, I feel satiated for extended periods, breaking free from the constant cycle of hunger and overeating. And thankfully, finding delicious sources of healthy fats has become a global adventure in itself!

Goan Fish Curry and Garlic Palak (India)

Fatty fish, in particular, has become a reliable staple for me. Whether it's canned salmon, mackerel, or sardines readily available in convenience stores worldwide, it's a convenient protein and fat source packed with those beneficial omega-3s. I vividly remember my time in Moldova, where I could visit the deli section of grocery stores and select wonderfully oily pickled fish, even specifying the amount, knowing that around 100g of salmon offered a solid 20g of protein.

Then there was Georgia, where walnuts reigned supreme. They were incorporated into every dish! From the creamy, nutty Bazhe sauce served with chicken or salmon to the vibrant Pkhali, I made a point of ordering spinach pkhali whenever I dined out—those delicious balls of spinach and walnuts felt like pure nourishment.

Eggs have also become a go-to for healthy fats and protein. In Vietnam, convenience stores often sold incredible braised boiled eggs steeped in soy sauce and something subtly sweet, creating an umami-rich core that was perfect for a late-night snack.

Late-night Braised Eggs Snack (Vietnam) 

Navigating the world with dietary preferences comes with challenges, especially with language barriers. My trusty Google Translate often becomes my culinary communication lifeline, allowing me to ask restaurant staff for my food without added oils or sugar. In many cultures, like Thailand and Indonesia, sugar seems to find its way into everything, so explicitly requesting dishes prepared without it is often necessary – and thankfully, usually accommodated unless everything is pre-made. I've also learned key phrases like "no oil and no sugar, please" in various languages, which has been incredibly helpful. To ensure I always have a hunger-curbing option on hand, I stash a snack in my bag – something high in protein with around 10 percent fat to keep me full for longer.

Indeed, fat has often been unfairly vilified in the world of nutrition. Still, as both my personal experience and my fat metabolism course have illuminated, the reality is that it plays several crucial roles in our bodies. From my experience with time-restricted eating and a ketogenic diet, focusing on healthy fats, particularly from sources like fatty fish, walnuts, and eggs, has significantly impacted my energy levels, curbed food cravings, and supported a healthier approach to weight management. This isn't just about calories; it's about understanding the quality of those calories and how different fats intricately influence our physiology.

Fats are essential for far more than just providing energy. As I've learned, they are critical for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. Without adequate fat intake, our bodies simply cannot utilize these vital nutrients. Beyond vitamin absorption, fats are fundamental building blocks for cell membranes, the walls of our cells, and they produce hormones that regulate various bodily functions. Fats are truly integral to our cellular health and overall metabolic processes. My course material emphasized how complex fat metabolism and regulation are, involving a delicate interplay of genetics, the overall macronutrient composition of our diet, hormones, enzymes, and other intricate physiological processes.

Fatty Tuna, Miso Soup, and Kimchi from the Konbini (Japan)

My current dietary approach prioritizes obtaining sufficient animal proteins with their natural fats while consciously minimizing or eliminating seed oils. This isn't arbitrary; it stems from the understanding that not all fats are created equal. I actively seek out sources rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, mirroring the principles of the Mediterranean diet, which is often associated with a lower risk of inflammatory diseases. This aligns with the scientific consensus that a higher intake of these "good" fats, while being mindful of the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio (something I aim to achieve through my love for fatty fish and walnuts), is generally more beneficial for our health. Focusing on these quality fats, alongside adequate protein, helps me stay satiated for extended periods, a key factor in managing food cravings and supporting my weight management goals – a concept reinforced by my course, explaining the role of hormones like cholecystokinin in promoting satiety.

Furthermore, my studies have unveiled the intricate hormonal dance in fat metabolism. Hormones like insulin, leptin, and ghrelin are central to appetite control, fat digestion, and storage. For instance, adiponectin, secreted from fat cells, helps regulate metabolism by improving insulin sensitivity, which can be a valuable asset in facilitating weight loss. Even cortisol, often primarily linked to stress, has a role in fat breakdown and deposition. By consciously choosing a diet that supports balanced hormone levels and actively working to minimize non-exercise-related stress, I aim to optimize my body's natural ability to utilize fat for energy. It's not about simply restricting fat; it's about making informed choices about the types of fats I consume and understanding how they interact with my body's incredibly complex systems.

Tuna Steak, Veggies, and Sambal (Indonesia) 

Please remember: None of the information shared in this blog post should be taken as professional or medical advice. I am sharing my experiences and understanding as someone on the path to becoming a nutritionist. For personalized nutrition guidance, consulting with a qualified healthcare professional is essential.

Now, I encourage you to share your experiences with dietary fats and ask any questions you may have in the comments below!

Reference

Zambelli, A. (2021), Current Status of High Oleic Seed Oils in Food Processing. J Am Oil Chem Soc, 98: 129-137. https://doi.org/10.1002/aocs.12450

A Love Affair with Coffee and the Science That Justifies It

Three cups a day. It's more than a habit; it's a ritual, a compass guiding my global explorations. My love for coffee began in the bustling coffee shops of Boston during my undergraduate years as a Barista and grew amidst the vibrant energy of New York City in high school. I fondly recall those cherished moments with my sister during the COVID blues, as we made our ritualistic pilgrimage to Sweet Leaf, just a ten-minute walk away, for our iced vanilla lattes with oat milk. It wasn't merely the caffeine but the atmosphere, the comforting hum of conversation, and the promise of a small, delightful escape.

2019, Sweetleaf, Long Island City, NY

2019, Cafe del Mural, Cartagena, Colombia 

Later, my walks with my dad and our energetic puppy, Lexi, through the diverse neighborhoods of NYC became synonymous with discovering hidden coffee gems. Initially, I was captivated by sweet concoctions, flavored syrups, and the creamy embrace of plant-based milks. But as life took a turn and an eating disorder developed, my coffee order transformed into a black Americano, a means to minimize "empty calories." Ironically, this austerity gave rise to a new appreciation for the taste and quality of my coffee. I began to discern nuanced flavors, bright acidity, and the subtle dance of tasting notes best revealed at room temperature, as a true coffee lover knows that coffee cannot be fully tasted at scalding temperatures or on ice. 

Now, as a global nomad, the excitement of landing in a new city is intrinsically tied to the hunt for exceptional coffee. My pre-trip ritual involves poring over maps, memorizing them with the same fervor I once reserved for the digits of pi (yes, I still remember the first 100 digits from a 6th-grade math competition). I search for specialty coffee shops with a cozy ambiance and a loyal local following. Thankfully, the internet teems with curated guides, making the quest for the perfect brew surprisingly seamless.

2024, Tokyo, Japan 

My recent days in Chișinău, Moldova, have been a testament to this. The city has graced me with a truly special coffee scene. From the expertly crafted brews at Kosmonatvika to the welcoming atmosphere of Coffee Monkey, the passion at Pasio Coffee, the sincerity at Sincer Coffee, and the artistry at Miro Cafe, not a single cafe has disappointed. Now, I have my sights set on Gdańsk, Poland, where Drukarnia, Jozef K, Kompozyt cafe, Lang fuhr, and Fukafe await, each promising a unique experience. With so many enticing options, how does one explore twenty specialty shops in two days without succumbing to jitters from a caffeine overload? 

2025, No. 39, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Amidst this caffeinated exploration, I encountered a researcher discussing coffee's biochemical and physiological benefits. As a devoted coffee lover and global taster (let's just say Kilimanjaro's coffee scene didn't quite ignite the same spark as Armenia's or Chiang Mai's!), along with being a biology major aspiring to work in functional medicine, this resonated with me. I felt compelled to delve into recent studies examining coffee's impact on the human body. Here's what I discovered:

Emerging research highlights coffee's profound influence on our gut. A review in Nutrients suggests that moderate coffee consumption (less than four cups daily) is linked to a more diverse gut microbiota, an increase in beneficial bacteria like Firmicutes and Actinobacteria, and a decrease in Bacteroidetes (Saygili et al., 2024). The phenolic and chlorogenic acids in coffee may even possess antibacterial properties within the gut. Furthermore, caffeine exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, and other coffee components may modulate immune responses. Coffee, including its decaffeinated counterpart, stimulates the release of gastrin and aids in gastric and pancreatic secretion while decreasing esophageal pressure. However, high consumption (over five cups daily) might elevate the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Interestingly, coffee appears to boost ileal and colonic motility independently of caffeine, possibly by acting on muscarinic receptors in gut smooth muscle cells and even influencing the gut-brain axis, potentially impacting visceral pain and CNS functions, perhaps mediated by changes in the gut microbiota (Saygili et al., 2024).

The bioactive compounds within those cherished beans also significantly affect our well-being. Compounds like caffeine, chlorogenic acids (CGAs), trigonelline, melanoidins, and diterpenes found in Coffea Arabica and Robusta have the potential to lower the risk of type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases, and various cancers (Makiso et al., 2024). These compounds have been shown to enhance lipid and glucose metabolism, inhibit inflammatory mediator production, and combat free radical damage. While three to four cups of filtered coffee per day are generally associated with cardiovascular protection and other health benefits, the caffeine and bioactive compound content can vary based on origin and preparation. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recommends a daily caffeine intake of no more than 400 mg for adults and 200 mg for pregnant women, noting that even a single espresso can exceed the latter limit. They caution that exceeding recommended limits, calcium and vitamin D deficiency, and unfiltered coffee consumption may increase cardiovascular risks, advocating for moderate consumption (Makiso et al., 2024).

The relationship between coffee and cardiometabolic health is a subject of ongoing investigation, but the evidence leans towards protective effects. Phenolic compounds like caffeine and CGAs may boost antioxidant and anti-inflammatory biomarkers, inhibit enzymes linked to cardiometabolic issues, and reduce intestinal absorption of lipids and glucose, potentially improving gut microbiome health (Karagöz et al., 2024). High-molecular-weight compounds in coffee may also positively influence gut microbiota, affecting cholesterol metabolism. However, the ambivalent effects of caffeine on blood pressure and the potential of diterpenes and advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) to increase cholesterol absorption and promote oxidative stress, respectively (Karagöz et al., 2024).

Another recent review suggests a consistent dose-response protective effect of coffee consumption against type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease (Ungvari & Kunutsor, 2024). While the impact on heart health is still being researched, coffee may be associated with a reduced risk of stroke. A U-shaped relationship with cardiovascular disease outcomes is possible. Moderate coffee intake (two to five cups daily) is generally linked to a reduced risk of heart failure, although higher consumption might increase this risk. Most evidence shows no significant link between coffee and atrial fibrillation risk. Notably, moderate coffee consumption (one to five cups daily) is associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality. These benefits appear consistent across different demographics and coffee types, suggesting that moderate consumption, particularly filtered coffee, is generally safe and may offer protection against several cardiometabolic issues, potentially contributing to a longer healthspan (Ungvari & Kunutsor, 2024).

The polyphenols found in coffee are key players in these beneficial effects. Research suggests these polyphenols exhibit strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties  (Chapple et al., 2024). Specific polyphenols have been shown to inhibit inflammatory pathways, reduce the production of reactive oxygen species, promote beta-cell health, improve glucose uptake, and influence pathways involved in insulin secretion, potentially mitigating factors affecting type 2 diabetes pathogenesis (Chapple et al., 2024).

Beyond the physical, coffee also exerts significant effects on our mental well-being. Caffeine boosts alertness and cognitive function by acting on the central nervous and cardiovascular systems (Alimyar et al., 2024). It can positively influence mood and may even help with mild depression when consumed in moderation. However, it is essential to manage caffeine intake due to its complex relationship with sleep. Understanding individual tolerance and optimal dosage is crucial to maximizing its positive impacts. Moderate caffeine consumption may help reduce the risk of several chronic diseases without significantly increasing the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, cancer, or many women's health issues (Alimyar et al., 2024).

Indian researchers recently suggested that coffee intake may benefit neurological and psychiatric outcomes, potentially reducing the risk of Parkinson's disease, improving cognitive function in older adults, and lowering the risk of depression (Pareek et al., 2024). However, they caution that the evidence isn't entirely consistent, with some studies showing no significant association or even potential adverse effects of high intake, such as increased anxiety. They stress the importance of considering individual responses and the overall diet and lifestyle when evaluating the benefits of coffee (Pareek et al., 2024).

Furthermore, research explores coffee's role in managing type 2 diabetes and its complications. Long-term consumption of both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee is associated with a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes and its complications  (Mohamed et al., 2024). Coffee intake may also help suppress appetite and mitigate the genetic link between BMI and obesity, attributed to its abundance of bioactive compounds (Mohamed et al., 2024).

The connection between coffee and cancer is also being actively studied. Researchers in GeroScience indicate that coffee consumption is linked to a reduced risk of several cancers, including skin, liver, prostate, and endometrial cancers, with the most significant protective effects observed at three or more cups per day (Kunutsor et al., 2024). Coffee may also lower the risk of cancer recurrence, particularly in colorectal cancer. However, the evidence remains inconclusive for many other cancers, and significantly, coffee consumption has been consistently associated with an increased risk of lung cancer, highlighting the need for personalized dietary recommendations (Kunutsor et al., 2024).

Finally, genetic factors may also influence how we respond to coffee. In Nutrition Journal, Hsieh et al. (2024) found that coffee consumption was associated with a lower odds ratio for metabolic syndrome in Taiwanese adults. Interestingly, they observed an interaction between coffee consumption and a specific genetic variant (rs301 of the LPL gene), suggesting that the protective effect of particular genotypes against metabolic syndrome was more pronounced among coffee drinkers, underscoring the interplay between genetics and lifestyle choices in metabolic health (Hsieh et al., 2024).

2022, Cong CaPhe, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

My daily ritual of those three cups isn't just a personal indulgence; it's a constant reminder of the profound connection between our daily choices and our well-being. Just as I meticulously seek out the nuanced flavors in a perfectly brewed cup, I recognize the vital importance of staying attuned to the ever-evolving landscape of health research. This isn't merely an academic pursuit; it's the foundation of how I aim to empower my patients in my future practice in functional medicine. By translating the complexities of studies on something as familiar as coffee, I hope to inspire them to take a more active role in understanding their health and making informed decisions.

2021, Phinista Cafe, Cambridge, Massachusetts 

For my family and fellow coffee enthusiasts, this exploration into the science of our beloved brew is more than just interesting trivia; it's a call to awareness. Understanding how even a seemingly simple habit can intricately impact our bodies underscores the power of knowledge in making proactive choices. And for my future patients, my commitment is unwavering: to remain a dedicated student of health research, to be their informed advocate, and to help them navigate the often-overwhelming world of medical information. Because ultimately, whether it's the comfort of a shared latte with my sister or the potential benefits within each bean, the most enriching discoveries empower us all to live healthier, more informed lives.

References

Alimyar, O., Nahiz, A., Monib, A. W., Baseer, A. Q., Hassand, M. H., Kakar, U. M., ... & Niazi, P. (2024). Coffea plant (caffeine): examining its impact on physical and mental health. European Journal of Medical and Health Research, 2(2), 143-154.

Chapple, B., Woodfin, S., & Moore, W. (2024). The perfect cup? Coffee-derived polyphenols and their roles in mitigating factors affecting type 2 diabetes pathogenesis. Molecules, 29(4), 751.

Hsieh, P. C., Nfor, O. N., Lin, C. C., Hsiao, C. H., & Liaw, Y. P. (2024). Metabolic syndrome risk in adult coffee drinkers with the rs301 variant of the LPL gene. Nutrition Journal, 23(1), 30.

Karagöz, M. F., Koçyiğit, E., Koçak, T., Özturan Şirin, A., Icer, M. A., Ağagündüz, D., & Coreta‐Gomes, F. (2024). Decoding coffee cardiometabolic potential: Chemical composition, nutritional, and health relationships. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, 23(5), e13414.

Kunutsor, S. K., Lehoczki, A., & Laukkanen, J. A. (2024). Coffee consumption, cancer, and healthy aging: epidemiological evidence and underlying mechanisms. Geroscience, 1-39.

Makiso, M. U., Tola, Y. B., Ogah, O., & Endale, F. L. (2024). Bioactive compounds in coffee and their role in lowering the risk of significant public health consequences: A review. Food science & nutrition, 12(2), 734-764.

Mohamed, A. I., Erukainure, O. L., Salau, V., & Islam, M. S. (2024). Impact of coffee and its bioactive compounds on the risks of type 2 diabetes and its complications: A comprehensive review. Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews, 103075.

Pareek, V., Shah, S., Sharma, B., Kumar, S., & Sharma, L. (2024). Coffee and the Brain: A Comprehensive Review of Its Neurological and Psychiatric Effects. Journal of the Indian Academy of Geriatrics, 20(1), 34-39.

Saygili, S., Hegde, S., & Shi, X.-Z. (2024). Effects of Coffee on Gut Microbiota and Bowel Functions in Health and Diseases: A Literature Review. Nutrients, 16(18), 3155. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16183155

Ungvari, Z., & Kunutsor, S. K. (2024). Coffee consumption and cardiometabolic health: a comprehensive review of the evidence. GeroScience, 46(6), 6473-6510.