In interview, we sit down with Selen Gulbahce, a nutritionist and wellness coach, whose unique approach to health and nutrition is transforming lives. With a background in computer engineering, Selen applies analytical thinking and scientific principles to her holistic wellness practice. She is the founder of the Alka-Terranean Method™, a revolutionary approach that prioritises balance and gut health over restrictive dieting. Below we explore her journey, insights, and expert advice on sustainable nutrition.

You started your career in computer engineering. What led you to change your profession to becoming a Nutrition and Lifestyle Coach?

My career began in computer engineering, but my true transformation started during a study abroad semester in the United States. Growing up in Turkey’s Mediterranean region, I was accustomed to fresh, whole foods. However, my experience with the Standard American Diet took a toll—I quickly gained weight, my gut health suffered, and my confidence plummeted.

At 21, I was excited for a new adventure in the U.S., but I wasn’t prepared for the relentless bloating, digestive issues, and weight gain. I tried everything—cutting carbs, skipping meals, counting calories—but nothing worked. The more I restricted myself, the worse I felt. That’s when I realised traditional weight-loss advice wasn’t working.

So, I applied my analytical skills—I researched, tracked data, and optimised. I treated my body like a system, diving into biochemistry, gut health, and nutrition. Instead of dieting, I focused on balancing pH levels, reducing inflammation, and supporting digestion through alkaline and Mediterranean principles. Within two months, I lost 30 lbs, my energy soared, and my gut issues disappeared. For the first time, I felt in control of my body.

At first, it was just for me. But friends, family—even strangers—noticed and asked what I had done. So, while completing my engineering degree and working in corporate, I became qualified as a nutritionist. What started as casual coaching soon became a thriving side business. My clients weren’t just losing weight—they were healing their gut, gaining confidence, and breaking free from dieting cycles.

Word spread quickly. Soon, my coaching business out-earned my corporate salary. That’s when I knew—this wasn’t just a passion. It was my calling. So, I left the corporate world behind and never looked back.

Today, I run a global coaching brand, helping thousands transform their bodies and lives with my Alka-Terranean Method™—without restriction, dieting, or giving up their favourite foods. And my engineering background? It became my biggest asset. I approach wellness like coding—with strategy, data, and systems that actually work.

Can you tell us about your approach to nutrition and how it differs from conventional dietary advice?

Unlike traditional diets, my approach focuses on balance, sustainability, and science rather than restriction. Most diets fail because they rely on cutting things out—low-carb, calorie counting—which leads to cravings and an exhausting yo-yo dieting cycle.

I experienced this firsthand. I tried to “eat clean” by cutting carbs, avoiding sugar, and skipping meals, yet I felt worse. My energy dropped, my gut health suffered, and I saw no results. When I stopped restricting and focused on balance instead, everything changed. I optimised gut health, reduced inflammation, and improved digestion—all while eating satisfying meals. The weight came off effortlessly, my bloating disappeared, and my energy skyrocketed.

You emphasise balance in your approach to food. What does “balance” mean in the context of nutrition, and how can someone achieve it without feeling deprived?

Balance isn’t about restriction—it’s about strategy. Most diets fail because they rely on cutting out food groups or using willpower, which leads to cravings and burnout. True balance means working with your body, not against it.

That’s the foundation of the Alka-Terranean™ Method—instead of eliminating foods, we balance them with alkaline, anti-inflammatory foods that reduce inflammation, aid digestion, and boost metabolism.

For example, if you drink coffee, pair it with mineral-rich water and alkaline foods to avoid digestive issues.

How do you tailor your nutrition plans to meet individual needs, given the diversity of people’s lifestyles, genetics, and health conditions?

Every person is unique—different lifestyles, different metabolisms, different needs. That’s exactly why my approach isn’t about rigid meal plans or a one-size-fits-all formula.

With my Alka-Terranean Method™, we focus on principles, not restrictions. Instead of telling my clients exactly what to eat, I teach them how to eat in a way that works for their body, their lifestyle, and their goals—while still allowing flexibility for social life, travel, and real-life moments.

What is your stance on restrictive diets like keto, veganism, or intermittent fasting? Are there any that you particularly recommend or avoid?

I don’t believe in restrictive diets—for most people, they’re simply not sustainable. Keto, veganism, and intermittent fasting each have benefits, but many struggle to do them correctly, turning them into just another diet.

You talk about intuitive eating. Can you explain what intuitive eating means to you and how it can be incorporated into daily life?

To me, intuitive eating is about self-trust, listening to your body, understanding its needs, and nourishing it in a way that supports both your well-being and goals.

Many use intuitive eating to justify poor habits, but if you constantly feel sluggish, bloated, or inflamed, it’s not intuition—it’s imbalance. Real intuition leads you towards foods that help you thrive.

How important is gut health in your approach to nutrition, and what are some practical ways people can improve their digestive health through food?

Gut health is everything. It’s the foundation of metabolism, immunity, energy, skin, and mood—everything in the body is connected to it. Instead of cutting food groups, we add more alkaline, anti-inflammatory foods to counterbalance acidic ones, keeping digestion smooth.

Looking ahead, what’s next for you in terms of your career and wellness philosophy? Are there any new projects or practices you’re excited about exploring?

My mission remains the same: helping people break free from restrictive dieting and feel at home in their bodies, without sacrificing their favourite foods or lifestyle. But the way I deliver this mission is evolving.

I already run a subscription-based wellness platform in Turkish with over 9,000 active members, transforming lives daily. My next big step? Launching it in English to bring the Alka-Terranean Method™ to a global audience.

I’m also integrating AI into my offerings to make personalised wellness even more intuitive and effortless (details coming soon!).

At the same time, I’m diving deeper into functional medicine and hormonal health, particularly in women’s metabolic balance, an often overlooked but crucial area.

And as always, I lead by following my own method because when you feel unstoppable in your body, you become unstoppable in your life.

selencoaching.com

Find Selen on Instagram @selencoaching and send her a direct message with the keyword “hipandhealthy” and she’ll get back to you.

Once difficult to find, matcha is no longer limited to Japan, and is now hugely popular around the world. It’s a staple in the routine of tea enthusiasts, a regular ingredient across cafes and bakeries alike, and stocked on supermarket shelves too. When I was first introduced to Japanese matcha it was the striking green colour, unique and unmissable, that stood out to me – but I soon learned that its qualities extend far beyond just the aesthetic. 

From an overview of its health benefits, and instructions on how to prepare the perfect matcha, to understanding the different grades of matcha and some recommended stockists to buy from, we make the case for introducing Japanese matcha into your wellness routine.

What is Matcha?

Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder from Japan. Unlike regular Japanese green tea, where the leaves have their flavour extracted and are then discarded, the matcha process involves consuming the entire leaf, which offers a richer taste and has a series of wellness benefits. 

The process for creating matcha is done with huge amounts of detail. Matcha comes from shade-grown Camellia Sinensis tea plants, which are shaded for 20-30 days before harvesting. This helps to stimulate the production of amino acids, creating the rich umami flavour and signature vibrant green colour we associate with matcha. The carefully harvested leaves are then steamed to prevent oxidation, dried, and finely ground into a powder. 

The production and enjoyment of matcha has always been a central element of the Japanese tea ceremony, emphasising mindfulness, harmony, and respect. Today, the production of matcha continues to be a symbol of Japanese heritage and craftsmanship.

Health Benefits: More Than Just Japanese Green Tea 

As the most well-known form of Japanese Green Tea here in the UK, matcha is incredibly popular amongst those seeking the immense variety of health benefits that it offers.

• Rich in Antioxidants – matcha contains high levels of catechins, which are antioxidant compounds that are known to have cancer-preventive effects.
• Enhances Focus & Calmness – the unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine provides sustained energy without jitters, promoting a good balance of alertness and relaxation. While a standard cup of coffee contains 80-100mg of caffeine, matcha provides roughly 70mg a serving. 
• Supports Heart Health & Immunity – regular consumption of matcha has been linked to improved cardiovascular health and a stronger immune system.
• Detoxifies The Body – ​​the chlorophyll in matcha helps cleanse the body by flushing out toxins and heavy metals. Since matcha is shade-grown, it has higher chlorophyll levels than regular green tea, making it a more effective detoxifier.
• Improves Skin Health – matcha’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can help reduce acne, redness, and irritation. The antioxidants promote collagen production, helping to maintain healthy and glowing skin.

How To Prepare Matcha At Home?

Making matcha the traditional way enhances its unique flavour and texture. We suggest following these steps to produce the perfect cup:

1. Sift one to two teaspoons of matcha into a bowl to prevent clumps.
2. Add 70-80°C water – boiling water can damage the delicate flavours
3. Slowly add the water and stir vigorously in a zigzag motion using a bamboo whisk (known as a ‘chasen’)

Other Ways To Use Matcha

Matcha powder is incredibly versatile and can be used in many ways beyond traditional ea. Whisking matcha with hot water creates a pure, earthy drink, whilst frothing and adding milk makes for a creamy treat of a matcha latte. You can also shake matcha with cold water and ice for a refreshing drink, or make a matcha smoothie by blending it with fruits and yogurt. If you’re baking, it can be used in anything from pancakes and muffins to energy balls and cakes. It can even be used in savoury dishes to create matcha salad dressings or flavourful broths. 

Understanding Matcha Grades And Quality

Matcha comes exclusively in the form of a powder – but there are two primary grades that distinguish the quality of matcha.

Firstly, there is  Japanese matcha at its highest quality, often more vibrant in colour, smoother in texture, and sweeter in taste. With the leaves carefully selected to meet high standards, this is the matcha that is usually used in traditional Japanese Green Tea ceremonies. 

Culinary grade Japanese matcha is slightly more bitter and often used for cooking, baking, and making matcha lattes.

When selecting your matcha look for a deep, bright green hue, fine texture, and a fresh, grassy aroma. 

Where To Buy The Best Matcha?

To fully appreciate authentic Japanese Green Tea, it’s important to obtain it from trusted sources, ideally those with direct ties to Japanese ea growers. Choosing authentic matcha over mass-produced alternatives helps preserve Japanese tea-growing traditions and ensures the highest quality of Japanese Green Tea available.

 There are a number of places to buy from, but we’ve included some of our favourites in this list:

• Clearspring
• Tencha
• Matchado
• MoiCha
• Moya Matcha
• Cuzen
• Nishiura East
• Sayuri Tea

New Research Reveals the Rising Trend of Women Seeking Health Information Online

If you have ever reached for your laptop in search of answers to your symptoms – you are not alone, in a landmark study by Bigvits.co.uk, fresh data reveals an astonishing 480.8 million health-related searches conducted by British women in the past year alone. With an increasing reliance on ‘Dr Google’ and social media, women are taking their health into their own hands, looking for accessible advice on everything from menopause and fertility to thyroid conditions and sleep issues.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, the data uncovers an important shift in how women are seeking to understand and manage their health. Nearly double the amount of searches for fitness and diet (203.1 million) and almost 100 times more than men’s health (5.07 million), British women are clearly taking charge of their wellbeing online.

Among the findings, the top health topics searched were fertility (16.3 million searches), menopause and perimenopause (3 million), and post-natal depression (3.15 million), highlighting key areas of concern. The hashtag-driven movements on TikTok, like #SelfCare (14 million hashtags) and #WomensHealth (1 million hashtags), further underline the growing trend of women seeking knowledge and solutions on social media.

Neha Deol, Nutritional Therapist at Bigvits.co.uk, reflects on the findings: “It’s clear that British women are not waiting for answers—they are actively seeking information to improve their health. The demand for expert-backed, women-focused advice has never been higher.”

As British women continue to turn to the internet for answers, Neha also shares five tips to support better health and wellbeing:

1. Balance Your Hormones Naturally

Incorporate healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil to support hormone production. Cut back on processed sugars and opt for protein and fibre to stabilise blood sugar. Be mindful of chemicals and artificial scents in everyday products.

2. Nourish Your Body with Whole Foods

Focus on colourful fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Probiotic-rich fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and yoghurt are excellent for gut health, which plays a pivotal role in hormonal regulation and immunity.

3. Hydrate and Cut Back on Caffeine

Aim for at least two litres of water daily, and reduce your caffeine intake by swapping your regular coffee for herbal teas or caffeine-free alternatives.

4. Prioritise Restful Sleep

Create a consistent sleep routine and aim for 7-9 hours of quality rest. Minimise blue light exposure an hour before bedtime and incorporate magnesium-rich foods like almonds and spinach to enhance relaxation.

5. Manage Stress Effectively

Engage in mindfulness practices such as yoga or meditation, and keep your body active through walking or stretching. Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha can also help improve stress resilience.

Bigvits.co.uk is committed to providing accessible, expert-backed advice and supplements for over 400,000 customers, helping women optimise their health and wellbeing every day.

For more wellness inspiration and expert tips, visit Bigvits.co.uk.

The ocean has long been a source of nourishment, healing, and longevity, offering an abundance of minerals, proteins, and essential nutrients that support overall health. For centuries, coastal communities have relied on marine-based foods and remedies to strengthen immunity, enhance vitality, and maintain youthful skin. Today, as wellness trends shift towards natural and sustainable health solutions, marine nutrients such as collagen, sea moss, seaweed, omega fatty acids, sea salt, and magnesium are gaining widespread attention. Each of these powerful elements provides unique benefits, from supporting gut health and brain function to improving hydration and reducing inflammation. Let’s dive into how the ocean’s natural resources can be harnessed to optimise health and well-being.

Marine Collagen

The Ocean’s Secret to Youthful Skin and Strong Joints

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, responsible for maintaining skin elasticity, joint strength, and overall structural integrity. As we age, natural collagen production declines, leading to wrinkles, joint discomfort, and weakened hair and nails. Marine collagen, derived from fish skin and scales, is an exceptionally bioavailable source of this essential protein, meaning it is absorbed more efficiently by the body compared to bovine or porcine collagen. Regular consumption of marine collagen has been shown to improve skin hydration and elasticity, reduce signs of ageing, and support joint and bone health. Additionally, it plays a vital role in gut health by strengthening the gut lining, potentially alleviating digestive issues. Whether added to coffee, smoothies, or soups, marine collagen is an easy and effective way to enhance both inner and outer health.

Sea Moss

A Superfood for Immunity, Digestion, and Energy

Sea moss, often referred to as Irish moss, is a powerhouse of nutrition, containing 92 of the 102 essential minerals that the body needs to function optimally. This red algae has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Caribbean and Irish cultures, to boost immunity, support digestion, and increase energy levels. Rich in iodine, it plays a crucial role in maintaining thyroid health, ensuring proper hormone balance and metabolism. Additionally, sea moss acts as a natural prebiotic, feeding the good bacteria in the gut and promoting better digestion. Its high iron content makes it an excellent energy booster, especially for those who experience fatigue or iron deficiency. Available in gel, supplement, or powder form, sea moss can be effortlessly incorporated into daily routines by adding it to smoothies, soups, or even skincare products to hydrate and nourish the skin.

Seaweed

The Ultimate Nutrient-Dense Superfood from the Ocean

Seaweed is one of the most nutrient-rich foods on the planet, packed with essential minerals, antioxidants, and fibre. Whether in the form of kelp, nori, wakame, or dulse, seaweed has been a staple in Asian cuisine for centuries, providing a natural source of iodine that supports thyroid function and regulates metabolism. Beyond its thyroid benefits, seaweed is also a powerful detoxifier, helping to remove heavy metals and toxins from the body while promoting gut health with its fibre-rich composition. Additionally, it contains compounds known to reduce inflammation, support heart health, and strengthen the immune system. With its slightly salty, umami flavour, seaweed is incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into meals as a seasoning, snack, or even a sushi wrap, offering both culinary delight and health benefits in every bite.

Omega Fatty Acids

Essential for Brain Function and Heart Health

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining cognitive function, reducing inflammation, and supporting cardiovascular health. Found abundantly in fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel, as well as in algae-based sources, omega-3s have been linked to improved memory, mental clarity, and emotional well-being. These healthy fats also play a crucial role in reducing cholesterol levels, improving circulation, and supporting heart function, making them essential for overall longevity. Additionally, omega-3s have been found to ease joint pain and stiffness by reducing inflammation, benefiting those with arthritis or active lifestyles. For individuals who don’t consume enough fatty fish, supplements such as fish oil, krill oil, or algae-based omega-3s provide an excellent way to meet daily requirements. Adding more omega-rich foods or supplements to your diet can significantly enhance brain health, mood stability, and overall vitality.

Sea Salt

A Natural Source of Essential Minerals

Unlike highly processed table salt, natural sea salt is packed with trace minerals that are essential for hydration, electrolyte balance, and overall bodily function. Sea salt contains vital minerals like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which help regulate nerve signals, muscle contractions, and fluid balance. It also plays a role in supporting adrenal health, which is crucial for managing stress and energy levels.

For some individuals, increasing salt intake can be a game-changer in addressing symptoms of low blood pressure and fatigue. As Francesca Londono-Richards shared from her personal experience, “I’ve always known I’ve had low blood pressure, but I hadn’t connected it with my symptoms: exhaustion, cold feet and hands, and a sickliness that seemed to get progressively worse in the evenings… It wasn’t until I started getting heart palpitations at night that I decided to get it investigated.” After being advised by her cardiologist to increase her salt intake, she noticed a significant improvement in her symptoms, highlighting how essential this often-overlooked nutrient truly is.

The key difference between refined table salt and natural sea salt lies in its mineral content—while table salt is stripped of beneficial minerals and often contains additives, high-quality sea salt, such as Celtic or Himalayan salt, retains its full spectrum of nutrients. Incorporating sea salt into meals, seasoning dishes, or even using it in homemade electrolyte drinks can help maintain proper mineral balance and hydration throughout the day.

Magnesium

The Relaxation Mineral for Sleep, Stress, and Muscle Recovery

Magnesium is one of the most essential minerals in the body, yet many people are deficient in it due to modern diets lacking in magnesium-rich foods. Found abundantly in seawater, magnesium is crucial for over 300 biochemical reactions, including muscle function, nerve signalling, and stress regulation. It plays a key role in relaxation, making it a go-to mineral for those struggling with anxiety, sleep disturbances, or muscle cramps. Magnesium also supports cardiovascular health by promoting proper blood circulation and reducing the risk of hypertension. While dietary sources such as seaweed, nuts, and fish provide magnesium, many people benefit from additional supplementation through magnesium baths (Epsom salt), topical sprays, or oral supplements. By ensuring adequate magnesium intake, individuals can experience improved sleep quality, reduced stress levels, and enhanced muscle recovery after physical activity.

Final thoughts…

The ocean is a vast source of nourishment, offering a range of health-enhancing nutrients that can support vitality, longevity, and overall well-being. From the skin-rejuvenating properties of marine collagen to the immunity-boosting power of sea moss, each marine-based ingredient plays a unique role in optimising health. Seaweed provides an unparalleled array of minerals, while omega-3 fatty acids support brain and heart function. Meanwhile, the essential minerals found in sea salt and magnesium contribute to hydration, relaxation, and muscle recovery. By incorporating these natural oceanic elements into your daily routine—whether through diet, supplements, or skin care—you can unlock the powerful benefits of the sea and embrace a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Whether you start your morning with a marine collagen-infused smoothie, enjoy a seaweed snack, or unwind with a magnesium soak, the gifts of the ocean are abundant and ready to be harnessed for your well-being.