In today’s episode, we replayed one of the most brilliant episodes with Dr. Dicken Weatherby, Founder, and CEO at OptimalDX. They discuss the secrets behind the complete blood count (CBC) and comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP).

Dr. Carrie Jones, a respected naturopathic physician, holds key positions at NuEthix Formulations and Metabolic Mentor University. With over 17 years of expertise in functional and integrative medicine, she is a renowned specialist in naturopathic endocrinology, holding board certification in the field. Dr. Carrie has held prominent roles as a medical director in leading integrative clinics in Portland, Oregon, and served as the medical director for Precision Analytical, the creator of the renowned Dutch test, for nearly a decade. She was also previously Head of Medical Education at Rupa Health and continues to co-host The Root Cause Medicine Podcast. In this episode, Dr. Carrie Jones discusses: What is metabolic health? Metabolic health affects everything from blood sugar levels to energy production and cellular activity. Hormones take the stage, regulating energy creation, utilization, storage, and distribution. Neglecting metabolic health puts these processes at risk, increasing the likelihood of chronic diseases like diabetes. 😔 But here's the plot twist: metabolic health isn't just about diabetes! It's linked to other conditions like cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's. Recent studies have uncovered a connection between metabolic health and Alzheimer's development, suggesting a contributing role. To safeguard your well-being, prioritize a healthy metabolic and endocrine system. What are the symptoms of metabolic disease? Many of the symptoms you may encounter can be linked to underlying metabolic health issues. It's not uncommon to feel tired, notice puffiness or swelling, and even experience pain. Changes in appetite can also occur, ranging from a diminished hunger to an insatiable craving for food. Additionally, headaches and skin problems may arise, affecting your skin's natural cycle. For men, metabolic health can contribute to challenges with libido, including erectile dysfunction. Women may face issues such as cramps, premenstrual symptoms, irregular menstrual cycles, and fertility challenges. Unfortunately, it's often the case that when these symptoms persist over time, we attribute them to aging or the natural demands of life, such as raising a family or managing a full-time job. We tend to accept these experiences as part of the norm, when in reality, we should be striving for optimal well-being and vitality. It is my sincere belief that you deserve to live your life to the fullest. 💪 Order tests through Rupa Health - https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guide The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is created by Rupa Health, the best way to order, track & manage results from 30+ lab companies in one place for free. The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at our health and well-being.

In today’s episode, we replay one of the insightful episodes with Dr. Paul Hrkal, Naturopathic Doctor and Scientific Advisory Board Member at Complete Concussion Management. They discuss concussions, traumatic brain injuries, and post-concussion syndrome.

The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is created by Rupa Health, the best way to order, track & manage results from 30+ lab companies in one place for free. The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at our health and wellbeing. This week we’re joined by Katie Morra, Functional Medicine Nutritionist and Founder of Gut Honest Truth. In this episode, Katie Morra talks about all things related to the gastrointestinal system, including Helicobacter pylori, indigestion, and GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease). Katie is an accomplished expert in gut health, specializing in Functional Medicine Nutrition and holding certification from the Institute for Functional Medicine. With over ten years of invaluable experience, Katie has had the opportunity to help numerous patients by utilizing a holistic approach that incorporates comprehensive laboratory testing, targeted supplement protocols, and lifestyle adjustments. Her primary focus is on identifying the underlying causes of inflammation, autoimmune diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, food sensitivities, and other chronic conditions. In addition to her successful patient treatments, Katie takes pride in her role as an educator. She has had the privilege of training various healthcare professionals, including nutritionists, dietitians, MDs, PAs, NPs, and health coaches. Through her guidance, these practitioners gain the skills and knowledge to confidently interpret laboratory results, evaluate complex cases, and provide effective treatment plans for their own patients. Key Takeaways: The health risks of heartburn, GERD, and acid reflux Heartburn, GERD, or acid reflux can impact your overall health. Contrary to popular belief, these conditions are not solely caused by excessive acid production. They occur when the pressure within your intra abdominal cavities forces stomach acid in the wrong direction. When acid reflux happens, it can lead to several negative consequences. The acidic nature of the refluxed contents can irritate and inflame the lining of the esophagus and throat. This irritation can cause discomfort and interfere with your day-to-day activities, significantly impacting your quality of life. Moreover, chronic or severe cases of acid reflux can pose more serious risks. Prolonged exposure to stomach acid can contribute to the development of Barrett's esophagus, a condition characterized by abnormal changes in the lining of the esophagus. Barrett's esophagus, in turn, increases the risk of esophageal cancer. Unveiling the symptoms of indigestion reflux Frequent indigestion reflux often leads to a rapid sensation of fullness. During meals, you may frequently experience burping or even food regurgitation, especially after consuming large meals. Additionally, constant nausea and a persistent burning sensation are commonly reported symptoms. Less common symptoms associated with indigestion reflux include wheezing, dry cough, or the development of nodules. Hoarseness can also occur. Some individuals may feel a pressure-like sensation in the upper region of the abdominal cavity and have the urge to push on it. However, identifying these symptoms becomes somewhat more challenging when experiencing silent reflux. Understanding the causes of indigestion and heartburn Various factors can contribute to the development of indigestion and heartburn. While there can be multiple causes, one common factor is the buildup of pressure that pushes things in the wrong direction. Conditions such as hiatal hernias can play a significant role in this regard. Structural issues also contribute to the development of indigestion and heartburn. Infections, particularly Helicobacter pylori, are known to be significant contributors. Many people may be familiar with H. pylori, as it is a commonly recognized cause of these digestive problems. A mindful approach to food and diet There is a specific dietary approach aimed at reducing acidity and promoting better digestive health. This entails eliminating foods such as caffeine, chocolate, highly acidic and spicy foods, as well as heavily fried foods, which can be particularly irritating to the stomach lining. However, it's important to note that dietary preferences and sensitivities vary among individuals. Certain foods, such as gluten, dairy, soy, and eggs, can trigger for some people. These items might need to be avoided to manage symptoms effectively. But it's crucial to consider other factors as well. For instance, if you have low stomach acid, you might experience difficulties in digesting protein. Thus, it's worth paying attention to your body's response when consuming beef, pork, or chicken. It might not necessarily be related to acidity but rather an issue with protein digestion. Alcohol can also cause discomfort for some individuals and should be monitored accordingly. Additionally, some people may experience reflux due to high-fiber foods if there is an underlying bacterial overgrowth in the digestive system. Addressing indigestion In addition to chewing food thoroughly, there are various strategies individuals can employ to address indigestion. To tackle this issue comprehensively, one can undertake various actions, including diagnostic tests such as stool and breath tests for SIBO. Moreover, implementing a diverse set of approaches, from dietary modifications to stress management, can prove beneficial. Additionally, there exists a plethora of supplements that can be considered, offering potential relief from indigestion symptoms. Learn more about gut health by checking out the key takeaways of this episode or the transcript below. Order tests through Rupa Health - https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guide

In today’s episode, we replay one of the most insightful episodes featuring Cynthia Thurlow, a nurse practitioner, CEO and founder of Everyday Wellness, as she talks about the basics, myths, and misconceptions about fasting and how it can help women reduce insulin resistance, improve inflammation, support weight goals, and improve energy at every stage of life.

The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is created by Rupa Health, the best way to order, track & manage results from 30+ lab companies in one place for free. The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at our health and wellbeing. This week we’re joined by Dr. Daniel Kalish, Founder of Kalish Institute Functional Medicine Training Programs. In this episode, Dr. Daniel Kalish shines a light on topics such as amino acids, longevity, mitochondria, cellular repair, and the importance of maintaining muscle mass for longevity and overall health. Dr. Daniel Kalish, the visionary behind the Kalish Institute, has established an esteemed online training program devoted to cultivating Functional Medicine practices. Since its inception in 2006, the Kalish Institute has been instrumental in shaping practice models for over 1,000 practitioners worldwide. Driven by a steadfast commitment, Dr. Daniel Kalish passionately imparts Functional Medicine philosophy and practices to fellow physicians. In 2016, he collaborated on a groundbreaking research study titled "Evaluation of a Functional Medicine Approach to Treating Fatigue, Stress, and Digestive Issues in Women," which meticulously examined the efficacy of various treatments and protocols. Furthermore, Dr. Kalish's knowledge and expertise are encapsulated in three influential books: "The Five Pillars to Building a Successful Practice," "The Kalish Method: Healing the Body, Mapping the Mind," and "Your Guide to Healthy Hormones." Renowned for his profound insights, Dr. Kalish is frequently sought after as a speaker at integrative medicine conferences throughout the United States. Key Takeaways: The importance of amino acids in protein synthesis and overall health Amino acids are the fundamental components of the proteins within your body, including vital proteins like hemoglobin, thyroid hormones, and insulin. Astonishingly, muscle insulin, hemoglobin, and other essential proteins are constructed using the same set of twenty amino acids in nearly identical proportions. A deficiency in any one amino acid can negatively impact multiple proteins in the body, as all proteins, except collagen, are made from the same twenty amino acids in similar ratios. Essential versus non-essential amino acids Essential amino acids are crucial components that our bodies are unable to synthesize independently and must be acquired through diet or supplementation. They are the specific amino acids that can only be obtained from food sources. In contrast, non-essential amino acids are synthesized by our bodies through genetic processes that convert one amino acid into another. While all amino acids play vital roles, the absence of essential amino acids can lead to protein-related complications. It is important to note that the issue lies not in the availability of essential amino acids, as they are readily available in various foods, but rather in their proper utilization and conversion within the body. Solving amino acids issues Some of the most common issues that can lead to amino acid deficiencies are poor digestion and utilization due to stress. You might be eating enough protein, but your digestion might not work well and won't break down proteins into amino acids. You can also have a utilization issue where you're burning through or using up your amino acids at an extreme rate. You might be stressed, and your body produces a lot of adrenaline. Properly chewing food helps improve protein digestion and absorption. Also, eating in a relaxed setting and taking time to chew food can help alleviate digestive issues and improve overall health. It's significant to acknowledge you shouldn't take amino acids without a clear understanding of deficiencies. It's always better to test to ensure proper supplementation. Improving mitochondrial health Mitochondria are your cellular powerhouses. You can improve your mitochondrial health by breaking down old and poor-quality mitochondria and building new ones using amino acids. To achieve that, use intermittent fasting. Additionally, free-form amino acids can help build new mitochondria, while the organic acid test can provide insights into mitochondrial markers and patterns. Moreover, you can stimulate the growth of new mitochondria with amino acid powders taken on an empty stomach. Maintaining muscle mass for longevity and overall health You can stimulate the growth of mitochondria by stimulating mTOR, which stands for the mammalian target of rapamycin. There's a big emphasis now in the longevity community to inhibit mTOR for preventing cancer and other chronic diseases. mTOR can be inhibited or stimulated for certain benefits. The muscle cells themselves and the muscle tissues are dense with mitochondria. There are around 10,000 mitochondria in every muscle cell. So the most important determinant of how long you live is your muscle mass. The muscle on your body is different from the adipose. It all goes down to strength, and there are some general strength tests you should be able to perform based on your body weight. For example, you should be able to deadlift your bodyweight, farmer's carry with half your body weight for two minutes, or hold a wall squat for a minute. Learn more about amino acids, mitochondria, and cellular repair by checking out the key takeaways of this episode or the transcript below. Order tests through Rupa Health - https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guide

The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at your health and wellbeing. This week we replay one of our most insightful episodes featuring Dr. Eric Balcavage, a Functional Medicine Chiropractic Doctor, Author, and Owner of Rejuvagen Center. In this episode, Dr. Balcavage talks about myths and misconceptions around thyroid and thyroid testing from a functional medicine perspective.

The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is created by Rupa Health, the best way to order, track & manage results from 30+ lab companies in one place for free. The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at our health and wellbeing. This week we’re joined by Dr. Barrie Tan, Founder and Chief Scientist of American River Nutrition. In this episode, Dr. Barrie Tan educates us on the benefits and misconceptions of vitamin E, specifically tocotrienols. Dr. Barrie Tan is an internationally renowned expert in the field of Vitamin E, with over twenty years of experience in identifying primary sources of plant-based tocotrienols such as rice, palm, and annatto. His extensive research has been focused on the annatto plant, considered the most potent source of tocotrienol. As the editor of two prestigious books on tocotrienol and the founder of the International Tocotrienol Conference, Dr. Tan has earned the title of "Tocotrienol King." He has also served as the Chief Scientific Officer and Scientific Board Member for several multinational organizations. Throughout his career, Dr. Tan has collaborated with esteemed institutions, including the US Armed Forces and a Prince of Thailand. His contribution to the field of Vitamin E has been invaluable, and his expertise has been sought after by many. Key Takeaways: A short history of vitamin E Vitamin E, specifically alpha-tocopherol, was discovered about 100 years ago, being known as a birth vitamin because it can bring a fetus to full term. However, the vitamin's reputation as an antioxidant caused it to be overhyped in the first years after its discovery. In the nineties, a big study was done at Harvard and the VA school, which found that synthetic alpha-tocopherol, the most common form of vitamin E, did not do anything at best, and may cause breast and prostate cancer at worst. Tocotrienols: a powerful form of vitamin E Dr. Barrie Tan stresses that synthetic alpha-tocopherol is a counterfeit version of vitamin E and that it's crucial to consider other natural forms of vitamin E, such as tocotrienols. Studies have shown that tocotrienols offer numerous health benefits and are even more effective than the more commonly known form of vitamin E, tocopherol, in treating chronic conditions and cancer. However, Dr. Tan points out that alpha-tocopherol can interfere with the functions of tocotrienol when present together. Therefore, he advises against taking alpha-tocopherol supplements, except in cases of prenatal care for expectant mothers. This highlights the importance of understanding the different forms of vitamin E and using them correctly to optimize their benefits. Tocotrienols benefits Dr. Tan sheds light on the numerous health benefits of tocotrienol, which is effective in mitigating chronic conditions, reducing inflammation, treating hypercholesterolemia, and improving lipid levels. Additionally, studies suggest that tocotrienol may possess anti-cancer properties. Notably, tocotrienols have demonstrated promising results in pre-diabetic patients by moderately reducing both sugar and lipid levels. Learn more about vitamin E by checking out the key takeaways of this episode or the transcript below. Order tests through Rupa Health - https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guide

The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at your health and wellbeing. This week we replay one of our most insightful episodes featuring Dr. Jay Faber, a clinical and forensic psychiatrist at Amen Clinics. In this episode, Dr. Jay Faber, talked about how to improve brain health and ADHD and the impact of addiction and concussions on the brain.

The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is created by Rupa Health, the best way to order, track & manage results from 30+ lab companies in one place for free. The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at our health and wellbeing. This week we’re joined by Dr. Kalea Wattles, Associate Director of Curriculum at The Institute of Functional Medicine (IFM). In this episode, Dr. Kalea Wattles explains all about reproductive longevity, including the fertility span, testing for fertility, and how to slow down ovarian aging. Dr. Kalea Wattles is an accomplished naturopathic doctor, certified functional medicine practitioner, and a renowned fertility expert. Her approach to helping women conceive and maintain pregnancies is based on the functional medicine philosophy. Key Takeaways: Focusing on reproductive longevity It's a human-specific phenomenon to experience a decline in fertility potential around middle age. This could be attributed to the "grandmother hypothesis," where women lose their fertility at a young age to allocate time and energy to taking care of their offspring. Nevertheless, losing reproductive potential has broader implications for various bodily systems, such as reduced bone mineral density and cognitive function, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, it's essential to prioritize reproductive longevity to not only ensure successful pregnancies now, but also promote long-term health and vitality. Understanding lifespan, healthspan, and fertility span Lifespan is the total duration of a person's life, from birth to death. Healthspan, on the other hand, refers to the period of life during which an individual is in good health and free from chronic diseases or disabilities. It's a measure of function rather than a measure of time. The fertility span is the period during which an individual is capable of reproducing, and it refers to the health of the ovaries, regular ovulation, hormone production that protects your bones and brain, and the nervous system. Normal versus pathological ovarian aging Women's ovaries naturally age, leading to a decline in function that culminates in the menopausal transition, usually occurring in the early fifties. This process is a normal part of aging and occurs regardless of a woman's overall health. However, some women experience an acceleration in ovarian aging, resulting in a decrease in ovarian reserve, which can lead to infertility. This can occur even if the woman is still having menstrual cycles and normal hormone levels. Premature ovarian insufficiency is another condition in which the ovaries exhibit perimenopausal or menopausal symptoms, such as irregular periods, even in younger women. Oxidative stress and inflammation Oxidative stress and inflammation are the two biggest contributors to ovarian aging. Oxidative stress is when the body experiences a buildup of compounds that can damage DNA. It can be from having a high sugar diet, environmental toxin exposures, chronic inflammation, or a low intake of dietary antioxidants. Inflammation can come from lots of different sources. Periodontal disease is a significant contributor to inflammation in the reproductive system. But it can also come from food sensitivities, intestinal hyperpermeability, or leaky gut. It's crucial to acknowledge the interconnectivity of all the systems in our body, as each one can impact the others. Therefore, when a woman intends to get pregnant, she must ensure that all her bodily systems are in proper working order and balance. Slowing ovarian aging Be mindful of your diet and reduce sources of advanced glycation. This means cutting back on fried and baked foods and focusing on consuming more antioxidant-rich foods. In addition to dietary changes, it's also important to consider lifestyle factors such as exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep. Also, regularly test. Also, check out Dr. Kalea's recommended lab testing: Hormones testing, Luteinizing hormone test, Follicle-stimulating hormone test, Testosterone panel, DHEA-S Test, Progesterone testing, Thyroid testing, TSH testing, Free T3 test, Free T4 test, Reverse T3 test, Thyroid antibodies test, Comprehensive metabolic panel, Lipid panel, High-sensitivity C-reactive protein test, Hemoglobin A1C test, Fasting insulin test, Nutritional testing, Vitamin D testing, B vitamins testing, Celiac panel, Ferritin test, Iron test, Homocysteine test, Infectious screening, HIV test, Syphilis test, Chlamydia test, Gonorrhea test, Hepatitis test, Cytomegalovirus test, EBV test, Salivary cortisol test, Comprehensive stool analysis, Micronutrient testing Order tests through Rupa Health - https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guide

The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at your health and wellbeing. This week we replay one of our most insightful episodes featuring Dr. Doreen Saltiel, Executive Director of Clinical Education at Precision Analytical, creators of the DUTCH Test. Dr. Doreen talks about heart disease in women, menopause, and hormone replacement therapy.

The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is created by Rupa Health, the best way to order, track & manage results from 30+ lab companies in one place for free. The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at our health and wellbeing. This week we’re joined by Dr. Richard Burt, Chief of the Division of Immunotherapy, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois. In this episode, Dr. Richard Burt shares his insights on hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) for autoimmune disorders. For thirty-five years, Dr. Burt dedicated himself to advancing stem cell and cellular therapy, beginning with animal models and, later, some of the world's first clinical trials. He authored over 145 articles, mostly as the first author, and edited four medical textbooks. As the first Autoimmune Committee Chairperson for the International Bone Marrow Transplant Registry (IBMTR), he led the way in developing stem cell clinical trials for autoimmune diseases, securing a National Institute of Health (NIH) $10,000,000 multi-center contract. Dr. Burt performed America's first hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) for multiple sclerosis (MS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Crohn's disease (CD), stiff person syndrome (SPS), and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). He also published the world's first randomized clinical stem cell transplantation trials for systemic sclerosis and multiple sclerosis. Dr. Burt's pioneering stem cell work earned him recognition as one of the top 50 people in the world for improving humanity by Scientific American in 2006, along with A1 Gore and Steve Jobs. In 2011, Science Illustrated recognized his stem cell work as one of the top 10 advances of the decade. Key Takeaways: What is a hematopoietic stem cell transplant? Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a medical procedure where multipotent stem cells are transplanted into a patient, typically from bone marrow, peripheral blood, or umbilical cord blood. These cells can replicate and produce new, healthy blood cells, which can rejuvenate or repair damaged tissue in different organs, and also help fight viruses and foreign tissue. While leukemia is caused by defects in the blood stem cells themselves, autoimmune diseases arise from defects in the immune cells produced by these stem cells. To treat autoimmune diseases, specialists target the effector cells responsible for the disease and eliminate them, then quickly regenerate healthy cells from the blood stem cell. By using HSCT to replace damaged or defective cells with healthy ones, physicians hope to mitigate the symptoms of autoimmune disorders and promote long-term recovery. This innovative approach to treatment is still undergoing testing and refinement, but it shows great promise in the fight against these debilitating diseases. Finding the optimal transplant regimen for autoimmune diseases If your regimen is too strong, whether it's myeloablative or non-myeloablative, you can have more toxicity and problems. If it's too weak, it's not going to be effective. And so you've got to find that right regimen. When finding the optimal transplant regimen for autoimmune diseases, the aim is to develop a treatment plan that maximizes the benefits of the transplant while minimizing the risks and complications associated with it. An optimal transplant regimen for autoimmune diseases involves selecting the appropriate donor, considering the type of transplant, choosing the right conditioning regimen, and determining the timing and dosing of immunosuppressive medications. Financial toxicity in American healthcare systems Financial toxicity is a growing concern in America, particularly in medical treatments. Unfortunately, this often leads to patients being prescribed expensive treatments that may not be the best option for their specific needs. To achieve successful outcomes with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, two key factors need to be considered: patient selection and the conditioning regimen used. However, due to the financial pressures facing healthcare providers and institutions, specialists may feel obligated to prescribe expensive treatments, even if they are not necessarily the most appropriate option for the patient. This can be a major source of frustration for patients, who may struggle to afford these treatments or may not receive the care that they truly need. Dr. Burt emphasizes the importance of physicians taking responsibility for their patient's care and being mindful of the financial implications of their recommendations. Rather than being driven solely by financial considerations, doctors should focus on providing the best possible care for their patients. By doing so, they can help to mitigate the effects of financial toxicity and ensure that patients receive the treatments that are best suited to their individual needs.

This week, we replay one of our most popular episodes featuring Dr. Ralph Esposito, a Naturopathic Physician, Acupuncturist, Functional Medicine Practitioner, Author, Speaker, and Clinical Advisor. He talks about cholesterol testing, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, Apolipoprotein B, and sterols.

The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is created by Rupa Health, the best way to order, track & manage results from 30+ lab companies in one place for free. The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at our health and wellbeing. This week we’re joined by Dr. Kate Henry, Director of Functional Medicine at Sanare Today, and Dr. Rachael Bevilacqua, Vice President at Sanare Today. In this episode, Dr. Henry and Dr. Rachael discuss mental health and share an integrative approach to treating depression, anxiety, chronic panic, and more. Dr. Kate Henry is a naturopathic doctor with advanced training in mind-body medicine and functional approaches to mental health. Her study of nutrition, botanicals, and lifestyle medicine has enabled her to offer unique expertise and out-of-the-box solutions for chronic and stubborn health issues, including SIBO, PCOS, depression, anxiety, POTS, and more. As Vice President of Sanare Today, Dr. Rachael is responsible for managing all clinical operations. Her duties encompass program development, recruitment of new personnel, expansion of locations, supervising the outreach department, and overseeing backend operations related to clinical product implementation. Additionally, she is currently serving as an IOP therapist for Sanare Today's Exton location, leading morning group sessions for the adult mental health track. Key Takeaways: Overcoming the stigma around mental health When it comes to mental health, people often don't seek help until there is an issue, like they can't go to work anymore, they stop going to school, or they start isolating themselves from others. However, when confronting these types of problems, people realize they can make a revolutionary shift in just a few weeks. The goal is to empower people with tools so they can do it on their own with occasional check-ins for maintenance. What is an integrative approach to mental health? Functional or root cause medicine revolves around a practitioner's efforts to determine the underlying cause of the symptom that a patient is experiencing. In contrast, integrative medicine takes a collaborative approach that involves multiple specialists treating the whole person. These specialists may include a therapist, psychiatrist, nutritionist, and natural medicine doctor. In terms of mental health, it's crucial to view it from a holistic perspective and leverage one another's expertise to gain a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's mental health. Through this collaborative approach, practitioners can work together to address the root cause of the problem and provide more effective, personalized care to the patient. An integrative approach to anxiety and panic disorders The integrative approach to anxiety and panic disorders starts with a two-pronged assessment that involves learning about the patient’s background. The assessment process includes gathering information about their nutrition, sleep patterns, medications, and social interactions and is conducted on a one-to-one basis with a therapist within seventy-two hours of contact. During this phase, the patient undergoes a multi-data point nutrient analysis that identifies the levels of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, E, B6, selenium, iron, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids, alongside inositol, which can be an effective treatment for panic disorder. An integrative approach to depression The root causes of depression can vary from anemia to dehydration. For irritable depression, you might require serotonin support; for anhedonic depression, dopamine support; and for depression linked with trauma or PTSD, GABA support. Therapies such as acupuncture and homeopathy can also be effective in treating depression. The end goal is to help people function and thrive on their own by taking a natural approach to treating anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. Also, check out Sam’s recommended lab testing: Multi-data point nutrient analysis, Blood testing Order tests through Rupa Health - https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guide

This week, we replay one of our most popular episodes featuring Dr. Rob Silverman, speaker, sports injury specialist, certified nutrition specialist, author, and founder of Westchester Integrative Health Center. In this episode, Dr. Robert G. Silverman shared the root causes behind autoimmune diseases and also dive deeper into the symptoms, tests, and treatments for these conditions.

The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is created by Rupa Health, the best way to order, track & manage results from 30+ lab companies in one place for free. The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at our health and wellbeing. This week we’re joined by Sam Miller, Health and Fitness Coach and Master in Nutrition. In this episode, Sam Miller shares all about metabolism, including how nutrition and lifestyle affect hormones and metabolism, the correct way of dieting, and habits for optimal well-being. With over a decade of experience as a health, fitness, and nutrition coach, Sam Miller is a renowned expert in his field. His programs are designed to help coaches and health professionals enhance their clients' results. Sam's workshops, classes, and specialization programs have been used by over 2,500 coaches worldwide. He has been invited to speak for prestigious companies like LinkedIn and contributed content for industry leaders such as Barbell Shrugged, Muscle Intelligence, T-Nation, Elite FTS, and many others. In addition, Sam holds a master's degree from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor of Science degree from Elon University and is a certified nutritionist and licensed, board-certified health practitioner. Key Takeaways: How nutrition and lifestyle affect hormones and metabolism Often, individuals overlook the significant impact of nutrition and lifestyle on their metabolism and hormones. However, a deeper understanding of these physiological processes can lead to informed decisions about your nutrition and lifestyle based on your current metabolic or hormonal state. Achieving optimal health and body composition, as well as enhancing athletic performance, requires consideration of both aspects. Neglecting either of these factors would result in a significant omission in the overall equation. Understanding your metabolism Metabolism is a regulator of stress and energy or the chemical process in the body's cells that transform food into energy. People often use terms such as "slow" or "fast" metabolism, or even "broken" metabolism, to describe their own metabolic status without really understanding what that means. It's natural to throw those terms around when other variables impact your body weight, exercise, or non-exercise activity. The metabolism is malleable and adaptive based on the environment, diet, exercise, health history, and other criteria. So it all depends on your choices and daily actions. Menopause and metabolic changes Hormonal fluctuations of testosterone, progesterone, estrogen, and cortisol occur during perimenopause and menopause, leading to an increase in body fat and a decrease in muscle mass. As a result, women undergoing these changes must pay close attention to their body's transformation and modify their training, nutrition, and lifestyle accordingly. High-intensity training without adequate nutrition during perimenopause or menopause can result in metabolic disruption. Engaging in resistance training, walking, and reaching step goals are the most effective ways to maintain optimal metabolic balance during these stages. Calories in versus calories out - myth or reality? Weight loss or gain is not only about calories in or out. Hormones also play a significant role. When we consume food, the number, type, and spacing of the calories and the quantity of energy coming into the system will impact the system from a hormonal perspective. If you're following a standard American diet, which is calorically dense but not micronutrient dense, that will influence your hormones. But hormones also impact everything from hunger and cravings and blood sugar regulation to when you want that next meal, both the hedonic and homeostatic eating systems in terms of the food decisions you're making daily. So find a balance between calorie control and hormone optimization to reach your goals. Is dieting good for you? Often, individuals seeking to reduce their body fat levels resort to drastically lowering their calorie intake. While this approach initially appears logical as it aligns with conventional weight loss education, it often lacks a sufficient runway and an exit strategy. Consequently, weight regain occurs, and upon resuming dieting, metabolic adaptation sets in, leading to elevated cortisol, downregulation in the thyroid, and the HPG axis. Balancing the stimulus and making gradual changes to nutrition is key to successful dieting without overdoing it. Moreover, a well-defined exit strategy is essential to avoid compromising one's metabolic function over the long term. Also, check out Sam’s recommended lab testing: TSH test, DUTCH test Order tests through Rupa Health - https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guide

The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at your health and wellbeing. This week, we rerun one of our most insightful episodes featuring Dr. Kate Henry, a Naturopathic Doctor and Wellness Speaker. Dr. Kate talks about food as a medicine approach to mental health and the physiology of the vitamins, nutrients, and amino acids that make up the neurotransmitters in our brain.

The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is created by Rupa Health, the best way to order, track & manage results from 30+ lab companies in one place for free. The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at our health and wellbeing. This week we’re joined by Greer McGuinness, Clinical Lab Educator at Vibrant Wellness and Founder of Biomedical Healing For Kids. In this episode, Greer McGuinness answers questions about toxins and the impact of toxic exposures on our health. With more than fifteen years of experience in the medical field, Greer McGuinness is a biomedical clinician. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Food Science from SUNY Plattsburgh and a Master's degree in Science from Central Michigan University. Additionally, she is a Certified Leap Therapist, having helped many individuals with food allergies and intolerances. Learn more about toxins by checking out the key takeaways of this episode or the transcript below. Key Takeaways: Uncovering toxin exposure People are exposed to over 700,000 toxins daily, mostly man-made chemicals such as plastics, parabens, and heavy metals. Many underestimate the impact of small doses of chemicals. The "dose makes the poison" concept is not applicable when considering multiple toxins. Our current generation is more toxic than ever, and children have a shorter life expectancy than previous generations due to chemical exposure. Toxin exposure symptoms in adults Toxic exposure in adults can cause various symptoms, including weight gain, autoimmune issues, reproductive issues, infertility, fatigue, chronic fatigue, gut and liver issues, and hormonal imbalances, which can lead to endometriosis. Moreover, toxins act like estrogen in the body, and this can lead to symptoms even when hormone levels appear normal. Endocrine disruptors such as plastics, microplastics, parabens, and other products that women use daily can bioaccumulate in the body and throw off its balance. Decrease your toxic load While the body naturally detoxes, the toxic load in our society is much higher than it has been in the past. This can lead to an overload on the liver which can cause bioaccumulation of toxins. To help with this, Greer created the Rebalance Method, which focuses on improving bile and pancreatic lactase flow. It's also important to consider the lymphatic system; physical exercise is the best way to detox it. The four pillars of detoxification Reducing exposure to toxins starts with testing first, followed by applying the four pillars of reducing toxin exposure. These include getting water filtration systems, incorporating organic food, improving air quality, and getting good-quality personal care products. For more information, consult the Toxin-Free Living Guide. Investigating PFAS toxins in everyday items PFAS are called the "forever chemicals" because scientists don't know how to break them down. They can be found in everyday items such as panties, yoga pants, waterproof jackets, shoes, and sports bras. As a result, 99% of people in the United States have PFAS toxins in their systems. Also, check out Greer’s recommended lab testing: Micronutrient testing, Vibrant's Total Tox Burden test, and PFAS testing. Order tests through Rupa Health - https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guide

This Tuesday, we replay one of our most popular episodes featuring Dr. Russell Jaffe, Chairman and CEO of PERQUE Integrative Health. In this episode, Dr. Russell Jaffe explained the leading causes of heart disease and why doctors need to adopt a proactive and preventive approach that identifies the root cause of their patient's diagnoses.

The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is created by Rupa Health, the best way to order, track & manage results from 30+ lab companies in one place for free. The Root Cause Medicine Podcast is a weekly one-on-one conversation with renowned medical experts, specialists, and pioneers who are influencing the way we look at our health and wellbeing. This week we’re joined by Dr. Natalie Underberg, CEO of The PCOS Doc. In this episode, Dr. Natalie Underberg shares the causes, strategies, and lifestyle changes necessary to effectively manage Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). As a seasoned researcher with over a decade of experience studying PCOS, Dr. Natalie is a distinguished expert in her field. In addition to earning her doctoral degree, she has devoted countless hours to advanced functional medicine training through the Institute of Functional Medicine and Apex Energetics, as well as intensive coursework in internal disorders through the American Board of Chiropractic Internists. Dr. Natalie was personally diagnosed with PCOS in 2010, and has since been dedicated to educating, empowering, and advocating for women who also grapple with this complex condition. Alongside her work helping women with PCOS, Dr. Natalie specializes in assisting women with infertility and other hormone-related issues from a holistic perspective. Key Takeaways: What is PCOS? PCOS, which stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS have imbalanced levels of hormones, such as higher levels of androgens and insulin, which can cause a range of symptoms, including irregular menstrual cycles, fatigue, acne, excessive hair growth, weight gain, and even difficulty getting pregnant. Dr. Natalie states that one in seven women are now dealing with PCOS. Challenges of PCOS diagnosis and management When it comes to a PCOS diagnosis, thorough investigations are not being done. There's also a misconception that you need a cyst on your ovaries to qualify for a PCOS diagnosis, which is not true. Many women are being misdiagnosed or mislabeled due to either the presence or lack of polycystic ovarian morphology. If a woman has two of the three Rotterdam criteria, she has PCOS. However, Dr. Natalie believes there is a need for more expansive criteria for diagnosing PCOS than the current Rotterdam criteria. She also mentions that PCOS is a lifelong condition that can be managed well with the proper practices and strategies. Exploring the Rotterdam criteria In order to qualify someone for a PCOS diagnosis, specialists look for two of the three Rotterdam criteria, which are the presence of polycystic ovarian morphology or a cyst, ovulatory dysfunction, and the presence of excess androgens based on labs. However, Dr. Natalie also looks for other signs like inflammation, insulin resistance, chronic stressors, chronic adrenal dysfunction, and more. What causes PCOS? The root causes or drivers of PCOS include inflammation, insulin resistance, environmental toxins, stressors, childhood trauma, sexual trauma, and toxic maternal relationships. Night shift workers, gymnasts, and high-level athletes often have adrenal stress patterns which can lead to hormone dysregulation and PCOS. Additionally, genetics can play a role in PCOS development as well as metabolic issues such as pancreatic beta cell dysfunction and insulin resistance. Dr. Natalie's bits of advice Adopt lifestyle strategies such as getting exposure to natural light within twenty minutes of waking, eating breakfast outside, taking a ten-minute walk after meals, establishing a consistent sleep pattern, eating an anti-inflammatory diet, managing stress through meditation and vagus nerve exercises, using essential oils for self-care, and re-evaluating close relationships. You can also use supplements, herbal therapies, bioidenticals, and natural antimicrobials. Also, check out Dr. Underberg’s recommended lab testing: CBC CMP lipid panel, Iron and ferritin panel, DHEA and DHEAS tests, Progesterone test, Pituitary test, LH and FSH tests, Full thyroid panel, Insulin testing, LDH test, A1C test, DUTCH test, GI-MAP test, CDSA test Order tests through Rupa Health - https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guide