In this episode of the Spectrum of Health podcast, Dr. Christine Schaffner sits down with functional medicine nutritionist, registered dietitian, and motivational interviewing trainer Susan Dopart for a rich conversation on metabolic health, insulin resistance, behaviour change, and the deeper layers of healing. Susan shares her journey from hospital-based renal nutrition to functional and integrative medicine, offering insights from decades of experience helping patients navigate blood sugar imbalances, inflammation, digestive dysfunction, hormone shifts, and chronic illness through a whole-systems lens. Together, they explore the importance of insulin regulation, meal timing, nervous system support, and how communication between the body's systems impacts long-term health and vitality. Susan also discusses the role of motivational interviewing — a compassionate, evidence-based communication approach designed to help people move toward sustainable change through hope, attunement, and deeper listening. This episode bridges clinical nutrition, nervous system regulation, and the emotional dimensions of healing in a grounded, practical, and deeply compassionate way. Topics Discussed in This Episode: Insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction Meal timing, glucose regulation, and hormonal balance The role of CGMs and functional lab testing Appetite hormones including leptin, ghrelin, adiponectin, and C-peptide Why overly restrictive diets can backfire Inositol and foundational support for blood sugar balance Motivational interviewing and behaviour change Listening, hope, and the healing relationship Susan's functional skincare line and clean beauty philosophy About Susan Dopart: Susan Dopart is a functional medicine nutritionist, registered dietitian, diabetes educator, author, and motivational interviewing trainer. With decades of clinical experience, she blends nutritional science, compassionate communication, and whole-person healing to support patients navigating metabolic dysfunction, chronic illness, and behaviour change. Susan also trains healthcare professionals across multiple disciplines in motivational interviewing and integrative approaches to care. Connect with Susan Dopart: Website: susandopart.com Instagram: @susandopart Connect with Dr. Christine Schaffner Website: https://drchristineschaffner.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drschaffner/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drschaffner

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