4. Why Saying No Heals: The Caretaker Identity & Women’s Autoimmune Health with Sharon Lim, MS, CNS, LDN
APR 21, 202622 MIN
4. Why Saying No Heals: The Caretaker Identity & Women’s Autoimmune Health with Sharon Lim, MS, CNS, LDN
APR 21, 202622 MIN
Description
Are you struggling to prioritize your health amidst the demands of work, family and everyday life? Do you find it difficult to set boundaries or put yourself first?
If so, this episode of Behind the Page is for you.
Episode 4 features Sharon Lim, MS, CNS, LDN, a fellow eldest daughter navigating Hashimoto’s, who is making a powerful impact in the world of nutrition and autoimmune health. As the founder of the Nourishing Center and a certified nutrition specialist, Sharon helps women better understand and support their bodies through complex health journeys.
In this conversation, we explore how many women, especially those in caretaker roles, delay prioritizing their health while waiting for permission, validation or a breaking point. Sharon shares how shifting this pattern is essential for true healing.
She opens up about her own experience learning to say “no,” setting boundaries in both family and professional spaces and untangling the identity of being “the one who holds it all together.” Together, we unpack how these deeply ingrained roles can contribute to chronic stress and impact autoimmune conditions.
In this episode, we cover:
How eldest daughter and cultural expectations shape health behaviors
The link between caretaker identity and immune system dysregulation
Why boundary-setting is essential for healing
Letting go of obligations that drain your energy
Building self-worth and giving yourself permission to prioritize your health
Practical tools to support your healing journey
Prioritizing your health isn’t selfish... it’s essential. When you begin to recognize inherited roles, set clear boundaries, and choose yourself consistently, you create the conditions for real, lasting wellbeing.
Ready to go deeper?
Pre-order my new book, AUTOIMMUNITY & THE GOOD GIRLS, now! Available June 2, 2026 in the U.S., and July 28 internationally.
Find it wherever books are sold. A portion of proceeds supports the Society for Women’s Health Research.
Learn more: www.goodgirlsbook.com
Resources & Links:
Society for Women’s Health Research
Reparenting the Inner Child by Dr. Nicole LaPera
Nourishing Center — www.nourishingcenter.com
A WOMEN RISING® PRODUCTION
Written, Directed and Produced by Sara Hirsh Bordo
Editor and Consulting Producer: Eric Larner
Post-Producer: Caroline Aylward
“Metamorphosis” by MILCK, Licensed courtesy of Resin8 Management