Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website. # Lucy Clarke: Nutritionist in Inverness, Scotland ## Sitemaps [XML Sitemap](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages. ## Posts - [Acupuncture & Functional Nutrition — Separate Systems, Integrated Care](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/acupuncture-functional-nutrition/): Acupuncture and Functional Nutrition offer two powerful but complementary ways of understanding your health. I use both approaches in clinic to support chronic pain, hormones, digestion, fatigue, and long term wellbeing - - [Tired All The Time (TATT): Why Fatigue Happens – And What You Can Do About It](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/tired-all-the-time-tatt-why-fatigue-happens/): Ever been to your GP, had bloods taken, and spotted the letters TATT on your results? It stands for Tired All The Time, and it’s more common than you might think. - [Vitamin D in Real Life: Deficiency, Sunlight, Testing and the Simple Steps That Make a Difference](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/vitamin-d-deficiency-uk/): Did you know that only around 20% of our vitamin D is meant to come from food, while the remaining 80% is designed to be made in our skin from sunlight? Modern life has flipped that ratio completely - [Functional Testing in Practice: My Go-To Tests and Real Client Case Studies](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/functional-testing-in-practice-my-go-to-tests-and-real-client-case-studies/): Choosing which functional test to order can feel like stepping into a maze. You know something isn’t quite right. You want answers. But where do you start? - [What Is Functional Testing – And How Can It Help Your Health?](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/what-is-functional-testing/): If your GP blood tests come back ‘normal’ but you still don’t feel like yourself, functional testing could help. Unlike standard tests that look for disease, functional testing identifies imbalances in your body’s systems—hormones, gut, brain, immunity, and more—giving you a clear roadmap to improve energy, mood, sleep, and overall wellbeing. - [Choosing Fertility and Pregnancy Supplements](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/choosing-fertility-and-pregnancy-supplements/): Knowing which supplements to take when trying to conceive can be overwhelming. With so many options and conflicting advice, it’s hard to know what’s right for you. In this blog, we explore key supplements that support fertility and pregnancy, how to choose them safely, and how to improve your body’s ability to absorb and benefit from them. Backed by research and clinical insight, this guide helps you make informed decisions about what your body really needs to conceive, carry, and nourish a healthy baby. - [Key Hormone & Nutrient Tests for Fertility and Pregnancy](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/key-hormone-nutrient-tests-for-fertility-and-pregnancy/): Struggling to conceive and not sure what’s going on with your hormones? This blog walks you through essential fertility hormone tests, when to take them during your menstrual cycle, and how to understand the difference between Clinical and Optimal results. You’ll also learn why nutrients like Folate, B12 and Vitamin D matter—and what your test results really mean when you’re trying to get pregnant. Whether you're planning to speak to your GP or exploring private testing, this guide gives you the confidence to ask the right questions and better understand your body. - [What do I need to do to get pregnant?](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/what-do-i-need-to-do-to-get-pregnant/): This is the first in a three-part series exploring how to improve your chances of getting pregnant. We’re starting with the foundation: regulating your menstrual cycle and optimising ovulation. You’ll learn what a healthy cycle looks like, how stress impacts your hormones, and why doing less might be the most powerful step you take on your fertility journey. Whether you’re already tracking ovulation or just beginning to explore your options, this blog helps you understand your body’s natural rhythm and what it really needs to support conception. - [The Chinese Body Clock](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/the-chinese-body-clock/): If you often wake during the night or notice dips in energy at certain times, it may be linked to your body's natural rhythms. As an Acupuncturist, I use the Chinese Body Clock to understand when different organ systems are most active and how imbalances may be affecting your health. This blog explores how the Chinese Body Clock can guide lifestyle changes to support better sleep, digestion, emotional wellbeing, and overall vitality. - [What is Electro-acupuncture and how can it help me?](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/what-is-electro-acupuncture-and-how-can-it-help-me/): I've recently completed advanced training in Electro-acupuncture with the British Medical Acupuncture Society, deepening my understanding of how electrical stimulation enhances healing and pain relief. This blog explains what Electro-acupuncture is, how it works from both a Traditional and Western Medical Acupuncture perspective, and why it’s an effective treatment for conditions like pain, inflammation, hormonal imbalance, and fatigue. I also explore the fascinating history of its use and what’s actually happening in the body during treatment. - [Supporting your Blood with Beetroot](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/supporting-your-blood-with-beetroot/): Beetroot is easy to find in the shops at this time of year. I love everything about it - the colour, taste and the fact it is so good for your health! Along with containing Vitamin C and A, beetroot is said to help with conditions such as fever, constipation and is also considered an aphrodisiac! - [After COVID-19 what is your ‘new’ normal?](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/defining-your-new-normal/): Below are the 4 things that I have found most helpful during lockdown.  So maybe these things will help you survive the Covid-19 lockdown too! Taking this time to reflect on life has opened my mind to doing things a little differently going forward. When life re-starts my new ‘normal’ is going to look a little bit different.  When life re-starts, what is your new ‘normal’ going to look a like? - [6 Healthy Living Tips for 2020](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/acupuncture-and-lifestyle-tips-to-make-2020-happy-and-healthy/): Feeling depleted after the festive season? January is the perfect time to reset. Drawing on principles from Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, this post shares six practical tips to boost your immunity, restore energy, and start the year feeling your best — from better sleep and nourishing food to staying warm, active, and creative - [Acupuncture? But I don’t like needles!](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/acupuncture-but-i-dont-like-needles/): Why come for acupuncture if you don’t like needles? Some people don’t like needles, in fact, some people fear and hate them. I used to think, ‘Surely they wouldn’t want acupuncture? Turns out I was wrong. . .   - [What is Chinese Tongue Diagnosis?](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/what-is-chinese-tongue-diagnosis/): When you come to see me for Acupuncture, I usually ask to see your tongue. Why? Because Chinese tongue diagnosis helps make acupuncture more effective.  Here are some of the reasons - [Can Acupuncture treat your Back Pain?](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/can-acupuncture-treat-your-back-pain/): Ever wondered if Acupuncture can treat your back pain? or Why Acupuncture seems to work for some people and not others? Your friend said acupuncture ‘works’ but your uncle said it did nothing for him. . . Let me explain why this might be - [7 Easy ways to drink more water](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/7-easy-ways-to-drink-more-water/): The benefits of drinking water and staying hydrated are well known. Any Google search will list why you should drink water and they include - improving and regulating your digestion, eliminating toxins, hydrating your skin, improving your complexion, aiding concentration and supporting clearer thinking. People have less headaches and it helps with weight loss. The lists also goes on. . . - [What exactly is Cupping therapy and how can it help me?](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/what-exactly-is-cupping-therapy-and-how-can-it-help-me/): These marks are left on the skin after Cupping therapy, one of the treatments I use alongside Acupuncture. Historically, cups were made from bone but nowadays they are made from glass, bamboo and many practitioners, including myself, use plastic cups with a hand pump. - [5 Things to know about Chinese New Year](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/5-things-to-know-about-chinese-new-year/): Ever wondered why Chinese New Year is not celebrated on the 1st January? Which of the 12 Chinese Zodiac animals are assigned to different years and which animal is associated with your birth year? - [What is Distal Acupuncture?](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/what-is-distal-acupuncture/): As a patient, you expect to leave clinic feeling less pain than when you arrived. You want to leave feeling better and more relaxed.  What many don’t expect is to come for acupuncture and have needles inserted in a different area to where you experience pain! - [Witches Brew](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/witches-brew/): Whenever I feel like an immune boost this is my go to recipe. When I was studying Acupuncture a good friend told me about ‘Witches Brew’. I made it and was amazed how much better I felt the next day. If I’m ever feeling achy, have a sore throat or feel like I’m fighting off a cough or cold, this always picks me up. ## Pages - [Men’s Health](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/mens-health/): Straight-talking, evidence-based nutritional therapy and functional testing — built around your health, your results, your goals. - [Precision Nutrition Programme](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/nutrition-therapy/precision-nutrition-programme/): A six-month, deeply personalised nutrition programme combining advanced functional testing, nutrigenomics and expert dietary support. Find out how Precision Nutrition works and whether it's right for you. - [Male Fertility](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/fertility-support/male-fertility/): Personalised male fertility support combining acupuncture, testing, and lifestyle advice to improve sperm quality, hormone balance, and reduce stress. Learn more about how I can help you. - [Download Resources](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/resources/): FREE guides and resources to help you on your way to better health. - [Preparing for Pregnancy Programme](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/fertility-support/preparing-for-pregnancy/): 4-Month Integrative Fertility Programme combining Nutrition, Functional Testing & Acupuncture to support your body and boost your chances of conception. - [Prices](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/acupuncture-prices/): Here you can find links to all the packages available for purchase. Each package is designed to support your health goals using nutrition therapy, acupuncture, and personalised coaching. Whether you want to manage symptoms, improve fertility, or boost overall wellbeing, there is a package to suit your needs. - [Payment Failed](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/payment-failed/): Payment Failed - [Payment Confirmation](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/payment-confirmation/): Payment Confirmation - [Nutrition Therapy](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/nutrition-therapy/): Personalised nutrition therapy to support female health—targeting root causes with lab testing and tailored plans to restore balance and well-being. - [Nutrition for Female Health & Fertility](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/nutrition-female-health-fertility/): Navigating complex female health conditions and fertility challenges requires a dedicated approach. I offer a 1:1 Nutrition 3-month programme. This allows me to understand your unique needs and provide you with the right level of support and guidance. - [What is Nutrition Therapy?](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/nutrition-how-help/): Nutritional therapy uses a range of tools to assess and support symptoms, imbalances and conditions so you can get your health back on track. - [Functional Testing](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/functional-testing/): Functional testing reveals what's really going on in your body—helping you understand symptoms and take targeted steps toward lasting health and balance. - [Functional Nutrition & Acupuncture with Lucy Clarke](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/): Welcome, I’m Lucy Clarke — a Registered Nutritional Therapist and Acupuncture specialist with over 17 years of experience helping men, women, and couples restore balance and improve their health. I combine functional nutrition, advanced DNA and functional testing, personalised fertility support, and integrative acupuncture to create tailored, evidence-based plans that fit your busy life. My approach focuses on uncovering root causes of ill health, supporting chronic conditions, and nurturing fertility at every stage. To provide thorough, personalised care, I open my diary for new bookings every three months. If you’re ready to take the next step toward better health and wellbeing, join my waiting list or get in touch today. - [Acupuncture](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/acupuncture/): Acupuncture offers relief from pain, chronic illness, and treatment side effects—helping you feel more balanced, supported, and like yourself again. - [Acupuncture for Female Health](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/acupuncture/acupuncture-for-female-health/): During different phases in a women’s life, her hormone levels and body naturally change. Acupuncture has a long history of treating gynaecological disfunction and endocrine & hormonal imbalances. - [Pregnancy Support](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/fertility-support/pregnancy-support/): Support your body and mind through pregnancy, birth, and recovery with safe, effective acupuncture—ease symptoms, boost energy, and feel more in control. - [Male Fertility](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/male-fertility/): Male Factor Infertility is a common issue, affecting 40-50% of unexplained infertility cases. Unlike women, whose eggs are finite, men continually produce and renew sperm. This means that improvements in male fertility can be achieved relatively quickly. Factors such as sperm quality, hormone levels, and overall health play a crucial role in fertility. This is where acupuncture can be a valuable ally in your journey towards parenthood. - [Assisted Conception](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/assisted-conception/): Fertility treatments and protocols help people achieve their goal of starting a family. I work with couples and individuals to successfully undergo Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). To maximise the effects of Fertility Acupuncture, I work with couples and individuals for at least 3 months before treatment commences, preferably 6 months. We work together closely before, during and after your fertility treatment. This level of treatment begins the process of preparing for pregnancy and provides optimal results to achieve and maintain the pregnancy. - [Natural Conception](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/natural-conception/): I work with patients using acupuncture to support and boost fertility and natural conception. This is a broad area and includes patients at the start of their fertility journey who have decided to start a family and want to improve their reproductive and overall health. I also work with patients who have been trying to conceive for some time and not managed to get pregnant yet or experienced multiple miscarriages and have not been able to carry a baby full term. - [Fertility Support](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/fertility-support/): Integrated Fertility Support combines nutrition, testing, and acupuncture to address fertility challenges and support your journey to a healthy pregnancy. - [Acupuncture for Pain & Discomfort](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/acupuncture/acupuncture-pain-and-discomfort/): Long-term pain can affect your body, mood, and quality of life. Acupuncture helps relieve pain by addressing both the symptoms and root cause — improving circulation, calming the nervous system, and supporting lasting relief. - [Acupuncture without Needles](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/acupuncture-inverness-lucy-clarke-acupuncture-without-needles/): Different ailments and conditions respond better to different treatments. I use the following treatments alongside Acupuncture needles to obtain the best results for you.  For some patients and particular conditions I don’t use needles at all! - [What happens during Acupuncture Treatment?](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/acupuncture-inverness-lucy-clarke-what-happens-during-treatment/): The diagram below shows what happens during acupuncture treatment. Hover over the boxes for more information. - [Acupuncture Research](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/acupuncture-research-organisations/): Evidence on how and why Acupuncture works is now well documented. There is now understanding and evidence of the physiological mechanisms involved during and after acupuncture. There are also many studies and clinical trials which demonstrate what can help treat conditions. Good quality information and investigation into acupuncture supports practice and promotes further fact-finding in this field. - [History of Acupuncture](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/history-of-acupuncture/): People wonder about the history of Acupuncture and how old it is? Records for the practice of Acupuncture date back many years but it is still not known exactly how old Acupuncture is. - [Can Acupuncture Help Me?](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/can-acupuncture-help-me/): Patients in pain often wonder if Acupuncture can help them? They come to me when pain is stopping them living life the way they want. This can be physical pain from injury, repetitive strain or trauma but also systemic pain from chronic illness i.e Arthritis, Auto-immune conditions. Often some treatments and painkillers give little respite. My patients just want to get back to doing things the way they used to. Find out about Acupuncture treating Pain and Discomfort. - [How does Acupuncture work?](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/how-does-acupuncture-work/): Clinical studies have shown how Acupuncture works to release natural neurotransmitters and hormones. These include β-Endorphin which lessens the body’s perception of pain, Met-enkephalin which regulates nociception in the body and Oxytocin, a which modulates pain and relaxes and calms people. All of these natural chemical changes act on the body’s pain receptors and transmit signals to the nervous system through the brain and spinal cord.  - [Acupuncture Hub](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/acupuncture/acupuncture-hub/): Acupuncture works by restoring the body’s natural energy flow, known as Qi, using ultra-fine needles placed at specific points. Techniques vary, but all aim to support self-healing and relieve discomfort. Curious about how it feels? Watch the videos below to learn more about what the needles are like and where they're placed. - [Sitemap](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/websitemap/): All the web pages contained on Lucy Clarke Nutrition and Acupuncture are listed below. - [Cookie policy](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/cookie-policy/): (Last updated June 2026) - [Privacy Policy](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/privacy-policy/): This privacy policy explains how Lucy Clarke Nutrition & Acupuncture collects, stores, and uses your personal data. - [Terms and Conditions](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/): Lucy Clarke Nutrition & Acupuncture Terms and Conditions. By using this website or any services offered by Lucy Clarke Nutrition & Acupuncture, you agree to the following terms. If you don’t agree, please don’t use this site. - [Contact](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/acupuncture-inverness-lucy-clarke-contact-directions/): I’m here to support your health journey — whether you have a question, need advice, or are ready to book in. Send me a message below and we can get you the help you need. - [Testimonials](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/testimonials/): Below are some testimonials of people I have worked with clinic. They show a variety of conditions I treat and support successfully. These are in the patients own words. I do not claim to treat specific medical conditions with Acupuncture. I treat a persons energetic imbalances and patterns of disharmony. - [About Lucy Clarke](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/about/): Who do I help? I work with men, women and couples to address the causes of ill- health and troublesome symptoms impacting on their life. I specialise in alleviating and preventing symptoms experienced with Female and Male Intimate Health conditions, Fertility issues and Chronic Health conditions. - [Work with Lucy Clarke](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/work-with-me-lucy-clarke/): Are you struggling with persistent health issues, fatigue, or pain and unsure where to start? With over 17 years of experience, Lucy Clarke, a Registered Nutritional Therapist and Acupuncturist, helps individuals and couples uncover the root causes of their symptoms. Using functional nutrition, acupuncture, and personalized health coaching, Lucy empowers you to restore balance, improve chronic conditions, support women’s health and fertility, and regain control over your wellbeing. Together, you’ll create a practical, tailored plan that fits your lifestyle and leads to lasting health improvements. - [Acupuncture FAQ](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/acupuncture-faq/): Below are frequently asked questions (FAQ) about acupuncture. If you would like further explanation or information please get in touch. I am happy to answer questions by phone, email or in a free 15 minute consultation. - [Blog](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/lucy-clarke-blog/): Welcome to my blog comprised of Research based articles. Here you will find information on Nutrition Therapy, Functional Testing and Acupuncture and Fertility Support. I write about the health topics I discuss in clinic, and the areas I get asked about most often. ## Packages - [NT Follow-On](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/package/nt-follow-on/): A three-session continuation programme for existing clients — picking up where we left off, with updated advice and a refreshed plan built on the work we've already done together. Because I already know your case, every session is focused and efficient. No starting from scratch. - [Fertility Acupuncture](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/package/fertility-acupuncture-plan/): Individual acupuncture sessions tailored to your fertility goals and cycle — most effective when started 3 to 6 months before planned conception or treatment. - [Fertility Investigations & Nutrition](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/package/fertility-nutrition-assessment/): Specialist testing and personalised nutrition support, selected for your individual situation. Not a fixed package — we discuss what's right for you first. - [Phlebotomy with Centrifugation — Inverness clinic](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/package/phlebotomy-with-centrifugation-in-inverness-clinic/): Blood draw with immediate sample processing (centrifugation). Required for biomarkers such as homocysteine, where serum separation is necessary to preserve sample stability. - [Phlebotomy — Inverness clinic](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/package/phlebotomy-in-inverness-clinic/): Blood collection for pre-arranged private postal testing. Includes support with finger-prick blood tests and Tasso collection kits. - [Essential Nutrigenomics](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/package/essential-nutrigenomics/): A foundational DNA report analysing key genetic variants (SNPs) that influence how your body absorbs, metabolises, and uses nutrients. Selected to suit your individual health goals and priorities, this report is interpreted alongside your blood results to build a joined-up picture of your health. - [Comprehensive Blood Analysis](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/package/functional-bloods/): A thorough functional blood panel ordered through a specialist UK lab. Testing is carried out via venous blood draw and goes significantly further than a standard GP panel — covering a broad range of markers to build a detailed picture of what is happening in your body right now - [Follow-Up Acupuncture Session](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/package/follow-up-acupuncture-session/): Ongoing acupuncture treatment tailored to your progress and needs. - [Initial Acupuncture Session](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/package/initial-acupuncture-session/): Your first appointment includes a full consultation to understand your health history and what brings you in, followed by your initial acupuncture treatment. - [1:1 Nutrition](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/package/1-on-1-nutrition/): A structured three-month programme combining personalised nutrition therapy with comprehensive blood testing and nutritional genomics analysis — giving you a precise, highly personalised picture of your health and a clear, practical plan to improve it. - [Precision Nutrition](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/package/precision-nutrition/): A six-month, deeply personalised programme for those with complex, chronic, or multi-system health concerns — or anyone ready to take the most thorough approach to understanding and improving their health. Across eight sessions, every element — from testing to treatment plan — is built specifically around you and what your body needs. - [NT Power Hour](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/package/nt-power-hour/): Flexible, ad-hoc nutrition support focused on one specific topic. Perfect for quick guidance or a focused deep-dive. - [Preparing for pregnancy](https://lucyclarke.co.uk/package/preparing-for-pregnancy/): A 4-month integrated plan combining Fertility Testing, Nutrition Therapy and Acupuncture.