A case study by Rebecca Finn, Founder of Inner Bliss Kids

In today’s fast-paced world, chronic stress and fatigue have become increasingly common, impacting both physical health and mental well-being. While many people turn to quick fixes like caffeine or energy-boosting supplements, sustainable relief often lies in addressing foundational nutrition and lifestyle factors.

Initial Consultation

A 41-year-old male presented with chronic stress and fatigue which were impacting his physical health and mental well-being. He led a busy work and family life with extended periods of travel and suffered with sleep apnoea. Recent blood tests revealed vitamin B deficiency and electrolyte imbalances.

Key presenting symptoms:

• Low energy – 5/10
• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
• Increased irritability
• Poor sleep
• Cravings for salty foods and sweets
• Limited protein and fibre intake
• No energy or motivation for exercise
• Recent weight gain
• Reflux and bloating
• Headaches

Prescription:

• Multivitamin and mineral powder: 2 scoops twice daily; containing magnesium, calcium, zinc, iodine, selenium, vitamin C, Acetyl-L-carnitine, L-tyrosine, Activated B’s, to replenish B vitamins and minerals reduced with chronic stress.
• HCL capsules: 1 cap before breakfast and dinner, to support digestion.

Diet & lifestyle advice:

• Anti-inflammatory diet prioritising wholegrains, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables
• Nutrient-dense breakfast with adequate protein
• Reduce consumption of ice teas and replace with filtered water (2L daily)
• Reduce consumption of bread, wraps and pasta (which he felt were making his reflux worse)
• Minimum 7-8 hours of sleep per night
• CPAP machine for sleep apnoea as recommended by his GP

Follow-up Consultation - 4 weeks

After implementing the suggested dietary and lifestyle changes, along with the initial prescription, the client noticed positive improvements in his energy, moods, and digestion. He was getting up easier in the mornings, going to the gym twice per week and no longer having afternoon energy crashes. He also noticed a big improvement in his reflux and no longer needed to take antacids for relief.  

The treatment was continued to focus on replenishing mineral and nutrient levels and optimising his digestion and gut health.

• Clinoptilolite powder: 1 sachet daily before breakfast, to strengthen gut barrier, reduce toxic load and decrease inflammation
• Continued Multivitamin and mineral powder 2 scoops twice daily
• Continued HCL capsule 1 cap twice daily
• Continued with dietary and lifestyle advice

Follow-up Consultation - 8 weeks

His energy and moods were much better, focus continued to improve and he was eating a lot healthier. However, he still reported cravings for salty foods and sweets and had difficulty getting up some mornings.

His prescription was continued with the addition of:

• Adrenal support formula: 1 cap twice daily; containing Withania somnifera (Witahania), Rhodiola rosea (Rhodiola), Ocimum sanctum (Holy Basil), Centella asciatica (Gotu Kola) and Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian Ginseng).

Follow-up Consultation - 16 weeks

Moods, energy, and motivation continued to improve. He was engaging more with his family and friends. The cravings were gone and he was now back playing basketball on weekends as well as going to the gym twice per week. With less gluten in his diet, he felt the reflux was a lot more manageable.

His prescription was adjusted accordingly to maintain optimal energy and wellbeing:

• Activated B Complex: 1 capsule daily
• Adrenal support formula: 1 capsule daily
• Magnesium powder: 1 sachet daily

Clinical Reflections

This case study explores how a holistic approach—focusing on balanced nutrition, restorative sleep, and optimal digestive function—can significantly reduce stress levels and restore energy. It highlights the powerful interplay between what we eat, how we rest, and how well our bodies absorb and utilise nutrients, proving the body’s innate capacity to heal when given the right support.