“Operation Recovery”

Why is this program different from other nutrition programs?

Many nutrition programs provide generalised advice or focus primarily on symptom management. The Operation Recovery Program takes a different approach beginning with a comprehensive assessment before making any recommendations, using pathology, HTMA and nutrigenomics testing, together with a detailed health history. The program is built around what is actually happening in your body rather than a standard protocol. That said, individual results will vary and the program is designed to support, not guarantee, health improvements as every body is different.

Do I need a referral to start the program?

No referral is required. You can book an Assessment Call directly to discuss your history and confirm that the program is the right fit before committing. The program is confidential. This is a private clinical service between you and Lauren. Nothing shared with your employer, department or anyone else without your written consent (or in exceptional circumstances as required by law).

What if I’ve already tried other treatments but nothing has really helped?

It's not uncommon for people to have had extensive investigations that have come back within normal ranges, while still feeling unwell. One possible reason is that standard pathology reference ranges are designed to identify disease and may not identify all nutritional or functional factors that contribute to how you are feeling. This program uses a nutritional medicine lens - including pathology review, HTMA and genetic assessment - that may provide additional perspective. It is one approach and whether it is the right fit for your situation is something we can discuss during your assessment call

Will I be expected to change everything at once and give up the foods I enjoy?

No. The program is designed to create sustainable change, not overwhelm you. We'll prioritise the areas that are likely to have the greatest impact first, then progressively build on those changes throughout the six months. This program isn't about strict diets or perfection. It's about understanding what your body needs, making sustainable changes and creating a way of eating that supports your health while fitting into your work, family and lifestyle. While you may need to make changes in your diet, to address deficiencies, gut issues or genetic predispositions, the ultimate aim is to be able to eat a wide range of foods.

I am on some medications, can I still do the program?

Yes. Many clients join the program while taking prescription medications. The program is designed to complement, not replace, the care you receive from your GP or other healthcare providers. Your personalised nutrition and lifestyle plan will be tailored to your medical history, current medications and health goals and any changes to prescribed medication should always be discussed with your treating doctor. Our focus is on supporting your body's recovery, addressing the underlying contributors to your symptoms and helping you achieve the best possible health alongside your existing medical care.

Why aren't supplement costs included in the program fee?

Supplement recommendations vary between clients, some may need a small number of targeted supplements, while others may benefit from a broader approach. Supplements are only recommended when assessed as clinically appropriate for your individual situation and all costs are discussed with you before any recommendation is made.

Are consultations available online & how long does the program take?

Yes, the program is designed to be delivered online and consultations are delivered via Telehealth. You can join from anywhere in Australia as long as you have a reliable internet connection. The program runs for approximately 6 months, from your Initial Recovery Assessment consultation through to your Recovery Review consultation, with regular check-ins to adjust your plan as you progress.

Why do you suggest Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) testing?

Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) is a form of nutritional assessment that provides information about certain minerals over time. It is used in nutritional medicine practice as one tool, alongside pathology and clinical assessment, to build a more complete picture of your mineral and nutritional status. HTMA is not a diagnostic test and results are interpreted alongside your clinical history and other assessment findings.

What if my blood tests have always come back "normal" but I still don't feel like myself?

Standard pathology reference ranges are designed to identify disease and serious medical conditions. They may not identify all nutritional or functional factors that contribute to how you are feeling. This program uses comprehensive health assessment combined with pathology review, HTMA and clinical assessment to build a personalised picture of your health. It is not a replacement for medical care, and any significant or unexplained symptoms should always be assessed by your GP.

Can I get my blood test done through Medicare via my GP?

Many GPs are happy to request appropriate pathology, though some tests may not meet the Medicare criteria or may not be routinely available through standard pathology services.

If additional testing is indicated, we'll discuss your options together. You may choose to have these tests performed privately through a functional pathology laboratory which is payable to the lab and not Medicare rebatable. Any additional testing is completely optional, and I'll always explain why it's recommended, what information it provides and any costs involved before you make a decision.

The goal is never to order unnecessary tests - only those that will provide meaningful information to guide your personalised recovery plan.

Why would it be useful to get Nutrigenomic testing done?

Nutrigenomic testing analyses selected genetic variations that may help explain differences in how individuals respond to certain nutrients and lifestyle factors. When appropriate, this information is considered alongside your health history, pathology, Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) and clinical assessment to further personalise your nutrition, lifestyle and supplement recommendations as part of your Recovery Blueprint.

Nutrigenomic testing is optional and isn't necessary for everyone. We'll discuss whether it's likely to provide meaningful additional information based on your individual circumstances, health goals and existing test results before deciding if it's appropriate for you.

If you've previously had comprehensive genetic testing through another provider, I may be able to use those results instead of requesting FitGenes testing. This will be discussed during your Recovery Assessment Call, and where suitable, the cost of the genetic testing component will be adjusted accordingly (analysis and report-writing time will still apply).

If you have raw DNA data from a provider such as AncestryDNA, this can often be used by the laboratory to generate your Fitgenes reports, reducing the cost of the genetic testing component.

Can I claim the consultations on Private Health Insurance?

You will need to check with your private health insurers to see if your policy includes rebates for nutritional consultations provided by a Nutritionist and if they cover online consultations. If you can it is only a small amount rebatable on the actual consultation, not supplements. Some insurers may also allow you to claim some back on testing such as HTMA but again, you would need to check with your insurer. I will provide an itemised invoice for you if you are able to.

A Certified Practising Nutritionist (CPN) is a qualified nutrition professional who has completed an accredited university degree in nutritional medicine and meets the professional standards required by the Australasian Association and Register of Practising Nutritionists (AARPN). Certified Practising Nutritionists are recognised allied health professionals. As a CPN, I provide evidence-informed nutrition and lifestyle advice tailored to your individual health needs. I work alongside your existing healthcare team, including your GP and other allied health professionals, to support your recovery and overall wellbeing.

What makes this program different from seeing a nutritionist for individual consultations?

Unlike standalone consultations, the program provides a structured six-month recovery pathway combining comprehensive assessment, personalised testing, ongoing support, education and progressive adjustments as your health improves. Rather than giving you advice in a single appointment, we work together over time to investigate the underlying drivers of your symptoms and support meaningful, sustainable change over time.

What if I want or need more help after the 6-month program?

The program is designed to give you the knowledge, tools and personalised plan to confidently manage your health long after the initial six-month program. However, health isn't something you achieve once and never think about again. Just as operational skills, fitness and equipment require regular maintenance, so does your health.

The program is also a partnership. While I provide the clinical guidance, education and personalised recommendations, lasting change comes from consistently applying the nutrition and lifestyle strategies that are tailored to your individual needs.

Many clients choose to continue with a personalised maintenance program, which would include less regular consultations, repeat pathology and HTMA testing as needed and ongoing refinements to their nutrition and lifestyle plan. These reviews allow us to monitor your progress, identify changes early and make adjustments before small issues become bigger problems.

Others may choose additional support to explore areas such as genetics (if they did not do this in the initial program), more complex health concerns or continued coaching as their goals evolve.

My aim isn't to make you dependent on ongoing care - it's to give you the confidence to manage your health while knowing you have support available whenever you need it.‍