“Preventing the end from the beginning—and everything in between”
Jessica Clancy-Strawn MA, RDN
What that means is simple: start now. One small step toward change today can help prevent or delay disease tomorrow. These choices protect your longevity and give you the power to live the kind of life where you stay in control—maintaining independence rather than relying on others or, worse yet, a machine to survive. Jessica believes health is everything. When you lose your health, you don’t just lose independence—you lose the ability to work and are forced to depend on a system that ultimately writes the rules for you.
Don’t assume you can eat and live carelessly and that healthcare will fix everything later. In America, we have world‐recognized hospital systems, advanced treatments, and some of the best specialists in the world. But here’s the truth: without the right insurance or financial resources, you may not have access to any of it. You quickly discover the loopholes you must navigate just to receive basic care. America’s healthcare is only as good as your insurance allows it to be, Jessica says. She knows firsthand—completing appeals, prior authorizations, and searching for coupons—just to help patients get what they need
Community Q&A: Your Health, Your Power
Start with one appointment. Ask for a basic check‐up and routine labs like a CBC and BMP. These tests give a snapshot of your overall health and can catch small issues before they become big ones. Think of it as checking the dashboard on your car — you want to know what’s running smoothly and what needs attention.
Many health problems develop quietly long before symptoms show up. Your labs can reveal early signs of dehydration, anemia, blood sugar changes, kidney stress, or nutrient gaps. Catching these early gives you more control over your future health.
Not at all. Abnormal doesn’t automatically mean dangerous. It simply means your body is asking for attention. Your doctor can explain what the results mean, and if the issue is nutrition‐related, a dietitian can help you make changes that support your health.
Yes. Basic labs are often more affordable than people expect, and many clinics offer cash‐pay pricing or community programs. Knowing your numbers now can help prevent costly health problems later. Prevention is almost always cheaper — and easier — than treatment.
Focus on small, consistent habits:
- Drink enough water throughout the day
- Include fruits, vegetables, and protein at meals
- Limit sugary drinks and highly processed foods
- Move your body in ways you enjoy
- Get enough sleep
These simple steps support your energy, metabolism, hydration, and overall well‐being.
Most people benefit from yearly labs, but your doctor may recommend more frequent testing if you have chronic conditions or risk factors. The goal is to track trends over time — not just one number on one day.
Anytime you want help improving your eating habits, managing a condition, or understanding your lab results. You don’t need to be “sick enough” to see a dietitian. Nutrition support is for everyone — especially if you want to stay healthy long‐term.
Don’t wait. Your health is your independence, your energy, your ability to work, and your quality of life. One small step today — a lab check, a healthier meal, a glass of water — can change your tomorrow