Women’s Health

Ellie MD NAD+ vial bottle on a cozy blanket with a list of benefits: Boosted Energy Levels, Enhanced Cellular Repair, Improved Cognitive Function, Metabolic Support, and Anti-Aging Properties.

NAD+ for Chronic Fatigue: Why Your System is Crashing

Published on December 4, 2025December 15, 2025 by Nicole, RNLeave a comment

Tired of Running on Empty? The Cellular Key to Boosting Metabolism & Focus

That Energy Drink Crash is NOT Normal

You ever hit the point where your third Alani just feels like a very expensive can of fizzy disappointment? Were you relying on that quick jolt to get you through your day (or night if you’re like me), but the energy part packed up and left the building? SAME SIS, SAME!

That crashing feeling, that chronic metabolic fatigue, isn’t just about poor habits. The truth is, it might be a shortage of a critical molecule your body needs to function at its peak.

The Spark Plug (NAD+) Inside Every Cell

What is truly running the stage for The Greatest Show (which is you, girl)? It’s a molecule called NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide).

NAD+ is basically the MVP molecule that helps your body turn food into actual, usable energy. Think of NAD+ as the spark plug for your cellular engine. You need a strong spark to ignite your fuel and get moving. The studies show that NAD+ helps keep your cells young and resilient and improves how your body’s Energy Factory works, which is the heart of your energy production. For me, it was like the five thousand tabs in my brain finally closed themselves.

It keeps everything running smoothly:

Focus
Metabolism
Mood

The Spark Plug runs all of it. When the spark plug is weak, every system reading, from your energy output to your focus, is compromised.

The Metabolic Stressors Aging Your Energy

So if NAD+ is so critical for cellular energy, why do we constantly feel so depleted?

NAD+ levels drop as we age. This is unavoidable. But those levels also drop due to chronic stress or when we are running on caffeine and vibes. You are surviving on pure grit, and your brain literally feels like TV static.

In my own experience, this is where I saw the biggest win. That overwhelming, chaotic ADHD haze I used to deal with started easing up; it was like the five thousand tabs stuck open in my brain finally closed themselves instead of crashing. I felt clearer and more “with it.”

The Glow Up is Real (Even the Awkward Part)

NAD+ plays a major role in cellular energy and turnover, which is great for your skin. I can tell you that my skin definitely had its own little purge moment at first—hello, surprise zits! But that initial reaction can be a normal part of the process.

Once that purge was over? Game changer. People were literally giving me compliments and asking what foundation I was wearing because my skin looked so good—and I wasn’t even wearing any! That’s when I knew the NAD+ was doing the dang thing and the cell turnover was happening!

The Difference Between Dragging and Doing

Supporting those NAD+ levels can help your body’s natural energy process stay on track. It’s not a miracle fix or a sudden jittery jolt; it’s a subtle, steady kind of clarity that coffee wishes it could give.

It’s the simple difference between dragging and doing. If you’re tired of guessing and you just want reliable energy, supporting this molecule is the most common sense, science-backed place to put your focus.

Want the Full Scoop on the Cellular Maintenance?

If you’re curious about the next-level science on cellular maintenance and DNA repair benefits of NAD+ that weren’t covered here, I have an exclusive NAD+ 101 note that is just for you!

To receive the NAD+ 101 Note
drop a comment below
or Text Me

P.S. If this post helped you finally understand your energy crash, share it with a friend who is also tired of relying on that third can of Alani!

Black Friday Deal graphic showing a free 1-month supply of NAD+ Injection ($175 value) with an Ellie MD GLP-1 Microdose purchase. Three medical vials wrapped in a festive red bow.

Beyond Weight Loss: The Nurse’s Guide to Microdosing GLP-1s and NAD+

Published on November 25, 2025 by Nicole, RNLeave a comment

Are you tired of feeling tired?

I hear it every single day. You are exhausted, you are experiencing brain fog, and you feel like your body is fighting against you. You tell yourself you will prioritize your health “after the holidays” or “in January.”

But as a nurse, I am here to tell you that exhausted is not a personality trait. And accepting that feeling drained is “just a part of aging” is not an option.

If you have been curious about the buzz surrounding GLP-1s but are hesitant because you don’t want to just “lose weight”—or if you are in that perimenopause transition and looking for a way to feel like yourself again—it is time to look at the science of microdosing.

This isn’t about a quick fix. It is about longevity science. And right now, there is a special opportunity to start this protocol with a massive advantage (more on that at the end).

What is Microdosing?

When most people hear about GLP-1s, they think of aggressive weight loss. But there is a different approach: Microdosing.

Think of microdosing as whispering to your metabolism instead of screaming at it. We aren’t trying to completely silence your appetite or force rapid changes. We are supporting the body’s natural functions to correct metabolic dysfunction.

11 Benefits of Microdosing GLP-1s (That Have Nothing to Do with the Scale)

While weight management is a fantastic side effect, the systemic benefits of this peptide therapy are what truly excite me as a healthcare provider.

1mproved Insulin Sensitivity It helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it easier to support insulin sensitivity. This is vital for reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome, which becomes much more common during perimenopause.
Hormonal Balance Support For my perimenopause and menopause ladies, this is huge. It can help manage the hormonal imbalances related to insulin and estrogen. It can also positively influence cortisol levels, reducing the toll chronic stress takes on your body.
Brain Health & Cognitive Function Brain fog is one of the biggest complaints I hear from women in midlife. GLP-1s have neuroprotective benefits that support cognitive function and mental clarity.
Cardiovascular Health It improves lipid profiles by supporting healthy cholesterol levels and reducing blood pressure by improving vascular function.
Quiet the “Food Noise” Microdosing helps suppress that constant mental chatter about food. It promotes satiety so you can make conscious, healthy eating habits without feeling deprived.
Gut Health By slowing gastric emptying, it improves digestion and nutrient absorption. A healthier gut microbiome is linked to better immunity and reduced inflammation.
Anti-inflammatory Effects Systemic inflammation is a root cause of so many chronic issues, including arthritis and skin aging. Lowering inflammation supports your whole body.
Muscle Maintenance Unlike aggressive dieting, microdosing helps preserve muscle mass. This is essential for longevity and strength as we age.
Metabolic Health Boost It enhances overall metabolic function, teaching your body to use fat as an energy source more efficiently.
Emotional Well-Being Stabilizing blood sugar levels has a direct impact on your mood. This can help reduce the anxiety and stress often associated with feeling out of control of your health.
Long-Term Prevention This is a proactive tool. It supports longevity by addressing core health issues that become prevalent in midlife, promoting overall vitality.

Why You Should Pair It With NAD+

If the GLP-1 Microdose is the steering wheel keeping you on the road, NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is the gas in the tank.

NAD+ is a vital coenzyme that fuels your cells. As we age, our natural levels drop, leading to fatigue and slower cellular repair. Supplementing with NAD+ provides a “cellular battery” boost.

It boosts energy by converting nutrients into ATP.
It supports DNA repair to slow the aging process.
It improves metabolism to assist with weight management.

The “Nurse’s RX” Synergy

Why do I recommend these two together? Because they solve the puzzle from two different angles.
A common struggle when changing your metabolism is temporary fatigue. NAD+ directly counteracts this by boosting your cellular energy. While the Microdose regulates your hormones and insulin, the NAD+ optimizes the cellular machinery that burns the fuel.
It is the ultimate “Metabolic Momentum.”

A Special Opportunity to Start

I am a big believer that the best time to start was yesterday, but the second-best time is right now.

For a limited time, we are offering a special bundle to help you kickstart your longevity journey. When you purchase a Longevity Microdose kit, you will receive a 1-month supply of NAD+ for FREE. (This is a $175 value included at no cost.)

You do not have to go “all in” to see changes. You just have to start. This is your chance to get a massive boost while dipping your toes into a protocol that addresses the root causes of how you feel.

Six months from now, you will be so glad you didn’t wait for January.

Shop The Longevity Special

Disclaimer: The content provided on this website is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Although I am a licensed nurse, I am not your nurse, and the information shared here does not establish a provider-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Results may vary.

My Body Isn’t Broken: A Real Story About PCOS, Loss, and Finding Hope

Published on September 23, 2025September 23, 2025 by Nicole, RN1 Comment

Have you ever felt like you’re fighting a battle with your own body that no one else understands?

Maybe for you, it was a diagnosis that seemed to come out of nowhere and changed everything. Maybe it was a long and frustrating cycle of dieting that always left you feeling worse than before. Or maybe it was a season of life—grief, stress, change—that took its toll, emotionally and physically, and you haven’t truly felt like yourself since.

If you’ve ever felt that way, I want you to know I see you. Because for me, it was all of the above. So many of you have seen my journey, but I wanted to share the real story behind it.

My Story Started Long Before the Scale

My relationship with my body was complicated from the start. Growing up, I was a product of 90s starvation diet culture, where being “skinny” was the goal, no matter how unhealthy the methods were.

In my early 20s, I was diagnosed with PCOS, and we began a long and painful journey to start our family. That journey included nine pregnancies. It’s still hard to type that number. Over several years, we experienced the heartbreak of three infant losses and six miscarriages. My body went through an absolute warzone of hormones, grief, emotional eating, and medical interventions like magnesium drips that caused insane fluid retention.

10 years ago at 30 weeks pregnant – yes THIRTY – we don’t make small babies

My Metabolism Had Officially Quit

By the time that chapter of our lives closed, my body felt completely foreign. It felt broken. My metabolism, for all intents and purposes, was non-existent. The old “calories in, calories out” formula was a joke. I once gained 20 pounds in three months from having one soda a month, with absolutely no other changes to my diet. It felt like I was being punished by my own body, and I was starting to believe I’d never have control again.

Finding Hope in Science

The turning point for me was realizing I didn’t need another diet; I needed a different set of tools. I started researching and learning about how my hormones and metabolic system were truly functioning (or not functioning). This is what led me to GLP-1 medications and peptides, like the ones I now get from Ellie MD.

For the first time, it felt like I wasn’t fighting my body anymore. Instead, I was giving it the support it needed to finally work with me. This was the useful, science-backed information I needed to finally find hope again.

This Isn’t Diet Culture – It’s Health

For the first time in my adult life, I have reached a healthy weight, and I’ve done it the HEALTHY way. There is no starvation here. In fact, I eat MORE now than I did before my journey began. The difference is that I’m making better choices, and my body is able to properly use the fuel I give it. This isn’t about fitting into a certain size; it’s about having the energy to live my life, feeling confident in my skin, and knowing I’m nourishing my body.

You’re Not Broken, and You’re Not Alone

I’m sharing all of this because I know how lonely that battle can feel. For years, I thought my body was broken beyond repair. If any part of my story sounds like your own, I just want you to know I see you, and you are not alone. Your story is valid.

If you’re curious and want to know more about the science-backed solutions that helped me, please feel free to leave a comment below. Let’s talk.

What glp-1 therapy does and does not do.

GLP-1 Therapy: The Skinny (Pun Intended) on What You Need to Know

Published on February 3, 2025November 25, 2025 by Nicole, RNLeave a comment

Alright, let’s talk about GLP-1 therapy—aka the little injection that could! If you’ve been battling cravings, feeling like a human garbage disposal for snacks, or just trying to get your metabolism to cooperate for once, then this might just be the tool you need.

But before you start dreaming of effortlessly shedding pounds while binging Netflix (sorry, it doesn’t work quite like that), let’s break down what GLP-1 therapy is—and more importantly, what it isn’t. Buckle up, because we’re about to get real, and a little sassy.

What Exactly Is GLP-1 Therapy?

Think of GLP-1 therapy as your metabolism’s new BFF—the one who tells you to stop texting your toxic ex (aka late-night snacks) and actually encourages you to make better choices.

Scientifically speaking, GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps control appetite, slow digestion, and balance blood sugar. In non-science terms? It helps you feel full longer, reduce cravings, and stop treating your fridge like it’s the last meal on Earth.

Some of the big names in the GLP-1 world include:

Ozempic® – Originally for diabetes, but got famous for weight loss real quick.
Wegovy® – Ozempic’s cool cousin that’s officially approved for weight loss.
Zepbound™ – The new kid on the block making waves in the weight-loss world.
Mounjaro® – The overachiever that helps with both diabetes and weight loss.

These medications don’t just shrink your appetite—they help with blood sugar control, metabolic health, and kicking emotional eating to the curb.

GLP-1 Therapy: The Perks (AKA Why Everyone’s Talking About It)

✅ 1. Bye-Bye, Cravings!

Ever stare at a bag of chips and think, “Just one…” and then suddenly, it’s empty? Yeah, GLP-1 therapy helps prevent that. It regulates appetite signals in your brain, so your stomach doesn’t convince you that an entire pizza is a “light snack.”

✅ 2. You’ll Actually Feel Full

GLP-1 slows digestion, so your meals stick around longer instead of disappearing like a magic trick. This means you won’t be rummaging through the pantry an hour after dinner like a snack detective.

✅ 3. Helps You Eat Like a Normal Human

Portion control? Mindful eating? Who is she? GLP-1 therapy makes it easier to eat like someone who actually respects their hunger cues, rather than someone at an all-you-can-eat buffet.

✅ 4. Metabolism’s Glow-Up

Not only does this magic shot help with weight loss, but it also balances blood sugar and improves metabolic function. Translation: your body stops treating carbs like a sworn enemy and starts burning fuel more efficiently.

✅ 5. Great for PCOS & Insulin Resistance

If you have PCOS, you know the struggle of hormonal weight gain and sugar cravings. GLP-1 therapy helps regulate insulin, making it easier to lose weight and keep it off without feeling like you’re fighting against your own body.

What GLP-1 Therapy Isn’t

Now, before you start celebrating, let’s clear up some misconceptions because this isn’t some “eat-whatever-you-want-and-wake-up-skinny” situation (tragic, I know).

❌ 1. A Quick Fix (Sorry, Y’all)

If you’re expecting to wake up looking like a Kardashian overnight, I have some bad news. GLP-1 therapy takes time. It’s like a slow-burn romance—not a Vegas elopement.

❌ 2. A Free Pass to Eat Like a Raccoon

Yes, this med helps control cravings, but that doesn’t mean you should test its limits by living off donuts and soda. It works best when paired with actual nutrients (I know, bummer).

❌ 3. A One-Size-Fits-All Solution

Your BFF might drop 20 lbs in a month, while you see the scale move at a turtle’s pace. Bodies are weird and work at their own pace—so don’t compare your journey to someone else’s highlight reel.

❌ 4. For Everyone

Not everyone is a candidate. If you have certain medical conditions (like thyroid cancer history or pancreatitis), this might not be for you. That’s why you should talk to a provider before diving in (shoutout to IVIM’s free consultations!).

How to Actually Make GLP-1 Therapy Work for You

So you’ve got the shot, and now you’re waiting for the magic to happen. Here’s how to boost your results and make sure you’re setting yourself up for success:

1. Prioritize Protein & Fiber (Trust Me, Your Body Will Thank You)

Since GLP-1 slows digestion, protein, and fiber will keep you extra satisfied. Think chicken, eggs, beans, and leafy greens—not just a sad granola bar.

2. Hydration = Non-Negotiable

You don’t want to be that person complaining about constipation. Drink your water, add electrolytes, or grab a HydroJug (NicoleInScrubs for a discount!).

3. Move Your Body (Even a Little Counts!)

No, you don’t have to become a gym rat, but walking, yoga, or even dancing in your kitchen helps. Your body likes to move—treat it well!

4. Celebrate All Wins (Not Just the Scale)

The scale is not the only measurement of progress. Celebrate:
✅ Clothes fitting better
✅ More energy & confidence
✅ Balanced blood sugar levels
✅ Feeling in control of food choices

If your jeans fit without you having to do a full-on squat routine to get them on, that’s a win, babe.

So, Is GLP-1 Therapy for You?

If you’ve tried all the things—keto, calorie counting, intermittent fasting, sacrificing your soul to the weight loss gods—and still struggle with cravings and metabolic issues, GLP-1 therapy might be your answer.

That said, it’s not a magic wand. You still need to support it with healthy habits, patience, and some common sense. But when used correctly, it can be a game-changer for weight loss, PCOS, and metabolic health.

Thinking about trying it? Chat with a provider to see if you’re a good candidate!

✨ Have you started GLP-1 therapy or thinking about it? Drop your thoughts below—I’d love to hear your experience! ⬇️

October: Time to Think Pink

Published on October 21, 2024 by Nicole, RNLeave a comment

🎀 October: Time to Think Pink! 🎀

Hey y’all! It’s that time of year again when everything turns pink—not just because of fall fashion, but because we’re celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month! 💕 Now, I don’t know about you, but when I see that little pink ribbon, my heart swells with pride for all the amazing warriors out there—those who have fought, those still fighting, and those we’ve lost far too soon. 💪🎗️

This month is especially personal for me. Before I was born, my mom’s oldest sister passed away from stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Though I never had the chance to meet her, I carry a piece of her with me every day—I was named after her to continue her legacy. 💖 My mom and her youngest sister are both breast cancer survivors, and their strength, alongside my aunt’s memory, fuels my passion for spreading awareness and supporting those in the fight.

👀 Know the Signs

Let’s start with the basics—knowing your body is key. You should be familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel because recognizing changes early could make all the difference. 🧐 If you notice any of these, it’s time to make that doctor’s appointment:

A lump or thickened tissue in your breast or armpit 💥

Change in the size or shape of one or both breasts 👙

Discharge from either of your nipples (other than breast milk) 🍼

Redness, dimpling, or swelling around the breast 🚨

Now, don’t go into panic mode if you notice something. Many breast changes are normal, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry! 🙌

🗓️ Schedule Your Mammograms

If you’re 40 or over, listen up! It’s time to get those mammograms scheduled, y’all! 📅 This screening tool is a lifesaver—literally. It can catch the cancer before you ever feel a thing, and trust me, early detection is key. 🔍 Not sure when to start? Talk with your doc. They’ll have your back and help you figure out the best plan. 👩‍⚕️

🥗 Live That Healthy Lifestyle, Honey

Now, we can’t control everything, but living a healthy lifestyle sure helps! 🌿 Eating right, staying active 🏃‍♀️, and keeping an eye on your weight are all good ways to lower your breast cancer risk. And I know we all love a glass of wine 🍷 after a long day, but limiting alcohol helps too.

Here’s a sweet little tip—why not turn that October pumpkin spice walk 🎃 into a power walk with your gal pals? 👯‍♀️ Move those feet and feel fabulous while doing something good for your health! 💃

💖 Support the Fighters, Admire the Survivors, Honor the Taken

One of my favorite parts of Breast Cancer Awareness Month is the outpouring of support from the community. Whether it’s rocking pink ribbons 🎀, participating in local fundraisers 🏃‍♀️, or supporting organizations that provide treatment to those in need, there’s a way for all of us to help. 🙏

And don’t forget—self-care and regular check-ups aren’t just for October. Let’s keep this energy all year round, y’all! 💓 Together, we can make a difference.

So, go ahead, grab your favorite pink lipstick 💄, and let’s spread the word. Our strength is in our sisterhood, and every conversation matters. 🗣️

Much love and light to all the brave women fighting this battle. 🌟 Stay strong, stay fabulous, and remember—early detection is your best protection! 💪🎗️