In this latest episode of the Chewjitsu Podcast, host Nick “Chewy” Albin, Co-Founder of the Chewjitsu Open, sits down with Allison Whiteley from 1st Optimal to discuss hormone optimization, health markers, and the importance of holistic health for athletes. This conversation is an invaluable resource for those looking to improve their health and performance through science-backed solutions. Whether you’re a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, an athlete, or someone looking to optimize their health, this episode has something for everyone.
Listen to the full episode here.
The Power of Hormone Optimization in Jiu-Jitsu and Beyond
One of the most intriguing aspects of the conversation revolves around hormone optimization, a key focus of 1st Optimal. Allison explains how testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is not only for older men but can also benefit younger individuals and women. This part of the discussion is critical for Jiu-Jitsu athletes, who often push their bodies to the limit and might struggle with fatigue or performance plateaus.
TRT can help restore energy, improve muscle recovery, and enhance overall mood. Chewy himself shares his personal experiences with testosterone therapy, discussing how it has dramatically improved his life, energy, and performance on and off the mat. His wife, Jess, also benefited from 1st Optimal’s holistic approach, as they looked at her thyroid function and other health markers, improving her energy and overall well-being.
Chewy emphasizes that hormone optimization is not just about men — it’s equally important for women, especially as they approach their 40s. Hormonal imbalance, often overlooked in mainstream healthcare, can lead to issues like fatigue, weight gain, and mood swings, which can all be mitigated with the right treatment.
How 1st Optimal Takes a Holistic Approach to Health
Unlike many traditional healthcare providers, 1st Optimal takes a comprehensive approach to its treatment protocols. They don’t just offer a quick fix but instead dig deep into your health markers, offering tailored solutions that address the root causes of symptoms. Allison explains how 1st Optimal focuses on testing a wide range of markers beyond the basics. From thyroid function (TSH and free T3 levels) to metabolic markers like fasting insulin and A1C, they ensure that clients are receiving the best possible care.
Chewy shares how, before working with 1st Optimal, he was unaware of how suboptimal his thyroid levels were and how these imbalances could be affecting his energy and recovery. Once they corrected these issues with targeted treatment, Chewy felt a noticeable difference, including improved energy throughout the day — especially in the late afternoons when he would typically feel sluggish.
This approach helps people feel better, not just get through the day. As a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, feeling at your best physically and mentally is crucial, and 1st Optimal’s methods provide a practical solution for those who train hard and need their bodies to perform optimally.
The Importance of Gut Health and GI Mapping
A topic that often goes unnoticed is gut health. Allison explains that many of their clients suffer from digestive issues that go unaddressed until they complete a GI map. A GI map is a stool test that evaluates the balance of good and bad bacteria in your digestive system, helping to identify potential sources of discomfort like bloating, acid reflux, and even inflammation that could be affecting your performance.
Chewy shares how his personal GI issues led him to explore treatments for his gut health, improving digestion and reducing inflammation. A healthy gut is crucial for overall well-being and can have far-reaching effects on other health aspects, including energy levels, immune function, and even mental clarity.
Recommendations for Jiu-Jitsu Athletes: Managing Stress and Testosterone
Testosterone management isn’t just for those on TRT. As both Chewy and Allison note, testosterone levels naturally decline as we age, and this can impact everything from mood and energy to muscle mass and recovery. Chewy discusses how alcohol, stress, and lack of sleep are some of the biggest culprits in lowering testosterone levels. Jiu-Jitsu athletes, in particular, often struggle with the physical and mental demands of training and competition, so maintaining healthy testosterone levels is vital for peak performance.
Allison recommends lifestyle changes like weight training, proper sleep, and stress management to help maintain natural testosterone levels. She also discusses the importance of supplementation, such as DHEA, to help support the body’s natural production of testosterone, especially for those who may not need hormone replacement therapy yet.
Why Choose 1st Optimal for Your Health Optimization?
1st Optimal’s reputation for comprehensive care and personalized treatment plans makes them an excellent choice for those looking to optimize their health. Their team, led by experts like Allison Whiteley, offers everything from hormone replacement therapies to metabolic support and gut health management.
For those interested in learning more, Chewy encourages everyone to schedule a free consultation with the team at 1st Optimal to see how they can help improve your health and performance. With a commitment to a personalized approach, 1st Optimal ensures you aren’t just treated for symptoms but are supported with a holistic care plan.
Chewjitsu Open: The Heart of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Community
Alongside his podcasting work, Nick “Chewy” Albin is also the Co-Founder of the Chewjitsu Open, a competition that’s been growing in popularity within the BJJ community. The Chewjitsu Open provides a space for athletes to showcase their skills, and it’s a reflection of the community spirit that Chewy and his team have cultivated. If you haven’t already, check out the event, support the athletes, and become part of the growing Chewy family.
Conclusion
This episode of the Chewjitsu Podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in health optimization, particularly those who train in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or other high-intensity sports. Chewy and Allison Whiteley dive deep into the significance of hormone health, gut health, and the importance of personalized care, providing a roadmap to feeling your best both in and out of the gym.
Be sure to check out the full episode, and if you’re looking to optimize your health, book your free consultation with 1st Optimal today.
Call to Action
Don’t forget to listen to the episode and check out more information about 1st Optimal’s offerings at 1stoptimal.com/chewjitsu. Take control of your health and performance, just like Chewy did, and see the difference it can make for you!
