
The Better Yoo Project: Optimizing Health, Hormones and Aesthetics.
The Better Yoo Project Podcast is a weekly series covering the topics of functional medicine, case studies from her practice, nutrition of all varieties (Keto, Paleo, Vegan, Pegan, Macros, Low Fod Map, Cardiometabolic) etc, the role of the nurse practitioner, entrepreneur, hormones optimization, injectables and aesthetics, fitness and recovery, nutragenomics and supplement use!
The host is Lexi Yoo NP, wife -mom-small business owner- nurse practitioner, hormone balancer, gut guru, thyroid investigator, fitness fanatic, and health hacker out of the Hoosier State.
Latest episodes

Feb 12, 2024 • 22min
37. Exploring Other Available Peptides w/ Traci Eliszewski
Traci Eliszewski is a board certified adult-gerontology NP graduating from Marquette University in 2017; she worked in inpatient medicine as both a Neurology NP and an inpatient Hospitalist before shifting her career focus to integrative, functional, and retentive Medicine therapies 3 years ago. She has completed courses through Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) and American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M) as well as SSRP. She currently works in an integrated medicine clinic in Madison, Wisconsin with her husband, Dr. Drew who also works in functional medicine and chiropractic. Traci’s current focus is on overall health optimization, longevity, and anti-aging by optimizing hormones, weight loss, thyroid, gut heath, peptide therapy, and regenerative medicine techniques.
This time we venture into the world of non-invasive peptide options as we take a closer look at the multifaceted benefits of tesofensine, from mood enhancement to weight management. The journey continues with accounts of sermorelin and tesamorelin's effectiveness in reshaping bodies and sharpening minds, coupled with a discussion about our commitment to responsible patient care. We're dissecting the nuances of integrating these novel treatments into patient regimes, understanding the delicate balance between remarkable results and the imperative of patient suitability.
Topics discussed in this
episode include:
How groundbreaking peptide therapies like 5-amino-1MQ and
amlexanox aid in weight loss and focus.
Why these compounds also combat histamine-related issues and
their role in mitochondrial function.
Strategies for dosing peptides to maximize health benefits
while ensuring patient safety.
Debates on mold toxicity testing and the use of visual
contrast sensitivity tests and other analyses.
The multifaceted benefits of tesofensine for mood
enhancement and weight management.
Why tesofensine should not be combined with other SSRIs or
SNRIs.
Success stories of improvements seen from sermorelin and tesamorelin.
How low-dose naltrexone complements other treatments for
conditions like autoimmune diseases.
The synergy between low-dose naltrexone and semaglutide in
addressing food addiction.
Why methylene blue is gaining attention for cognitive
enhancement and infection control.
Concerns around methylene blue with vasodilation and its
contraindication in G6PD deficiency.
The importance of informed consent and patient education on
treatment options.
How low-dose leucine helps prevent muscle loss in various
patient demographics.
Upcoming discussions on hormone replacement controversies
and their implications.
Insights into the use of tesamorelin for targeting visceral
fat and improving cognitive function in older adults.
Follow our Instagram https://instagram.com/yoodirecthealth_aesthetics
or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/

Jan 21, 2024 • 21min
35. The Future of Longevity: Exploring Neural Therapy, Glutathione, and Methylene Blue
Join Lexi Yoo, NP, a Certified Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner, in the informative podcast episode, "The Future of Longevity: Exploring Neural Therapy, Glutathione, and Methylene Blue." Drawing from her professional experience at Yoo Direct Health, Lexi offers a deep dive into the science and application of these three advanced therapies. This episode sheds light on how Neural Therapy, IV Glutathione, and Oral Methylene Blue are being used to manage chronic pain, enhance cognitive function, and support anti-aging efforts. Featuring patient experiences and expert analysis, Lexi provides a clear, evidence-based overview of each treatment's mechanisms and benefits. This podcast is ideal for healthcare professionals, patients exploring alternative therapies, or anyone interested in the evolving landscape of functional medicine. Tune in for a straightforward, insightful discussion on how these therapies are shaping the future of health and longevity,

Nov 20, 2023 • 51min
34. Gut Check: Candida Chronicles and the Truth Behind 'All Disease Begins in the Gut'
Welcome, lovely listeners, to another educational episode of The Better Yoo Project! I'm your host, Lexi NP, and today's episode is packed with valuable insights on gut health, featuring the incredible Cat Simmons, an expert in interpreting the GI MAP test by Diagnostics Solutions.
Cat brings a wealth of knowledge to our discussion, drawing from her extensive background as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) specializing in the functional laboratory diagnostic space. With a dual appointment in exercise physiology and dietetics and a master’s degree in metabolic physiology, Cat's decade-long experience in advanced laboratory interpretation, education, counseling, and clinical practice shines through in our conversation.
As we dive into the fascinating world of gut health, Cat and I explore the risks of candida overgrowth. We unravel three key risks, shedding light on how this common issue can impact our overall well-being. We also address whether candida overgrowth can lead to other health problems, identifying three symptoms that may signal its presence.
Together we breakdown some of the effective treatments, from pharmaceuticals to herbs, IV ozone therapy to my personal favorite peptide therapy! We also explore intriguing patterns revealed by the GI MAP, providing a deeper understanding of what to look for in your gut health journey.
We give our insight to the side effects of treatment for candida overgrowth, offering a holistic view of what to expect during the healing process.
As we wrap up our conversation, Cat leaves us with essential advice on supporting gut health post-candida overgrowth treatment. Her insights offer a roadmap for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome and preventing future issues.
This episode is educational and informative for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of gut health, and Cat Simmons brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to the table. If you're interested in more education about gut health check out the https://ydhacademy.com/

Sep 17, 2023 • 36min
33. Your Roadmap to Optimal Health with Dr.Leonard Pastrana and Lexi Yoo NP
In this episode titled "Your Roadmap to Optimal Health," Dr. Leonard Pastrana and I, discuss our experiences with some of our favorite weight loss peptides and nutraceuticals. Dr. Pastrana, a seasoned expert in healthcare, and I, a nurse practitioner, combine our expertise to provide a comprehensive roadmap for achieving optimal health.
Throughout the episode, we share valuable insights on personalized healthcare and the transformative power of peptides and nutraceuticals. We discuss the significance of these compounds in weight management and overall wellness, highlighting their role in regulating appetite, glucose levels, and preserving muscle mass.
We also discuss Dr.Pastrana's company Nubioage, a revolutionary approach to healthcare that emphasizes customization and the integration of peptides while bringing the best they have to offer to providers looking to better help patients. We discuss the important foundations of combining lifestyle changes with these innovative solutions for long-lasting results.
Highlighted supplements include:
LeuSynergy is a peptide-enhancing supplement that activates proteins called SIRTUINS by enhancing the cell’s use of the longevity molecule NAD+.
Sytrinol® LNA As an alternative to statins, it leverages the synergy of leucine and nicotinic acid with polymethoxylated flavones and tocotrienols to improve lipid biomarkers, fat oxidation, and circadian rhythms.
iCell Water™ (The Amino Drink) optimizes cell signaling through modulation of cell volume
Be sure to follow him:
@leonardpastrana
@nubioagewellnessnetwork
https://nubioage.com/

Jul 23, 2023 • 31min
32. Optimizing Testosterone: Shots vs. Pellets
In this episode of "The Better Yoo Project: Optimizing Health, Hormones, and Aesthetics," host Lexi Yoo NP and guest Allen Stewart NP delve into the intriguing topic of testosterone therapy, specifically comparing testosterone shots and pellets.
Understanding the differences between normal and optimal testosterone levels is crucial, as optimal levels ensure peak performance and well-being.
Listeners learn about the symptoms of low testosterone, such as low energy, reduced muscle mass, and mood swings, which can prompt the need for hormone therapy.
The pros and cons of testosterone shots and pellets are discussed, considering factors like treatment frequency, dosage flexibility, and individual preferences.
Blood work and monitoring parameters are emphasized to tailor treatment and maintain hormone levels within the optimal range.
Both treatment methods have potential side effects, but they are generally well-tolerated with careful monitoring.
The episode concludes with a teaser about an exciting development: the hosts' new testosterone replacement shot program, promising a cutting-edge, personalized approach to hormone therapy for optimizing health, hormones, and aesthetics.

Jul 17, 2023 • 20min
31. IV NAD and Mitochondria for Anti-Aging
**The Better Yoo Project: Optimizing Health, Hormones, and Aesthetics**
In this episode of The Better Yoo Project, your host Lexi Yoo, NP, and special guest Haley Cook, NP, delve into the fascinating world of IV NAD therapy and its impact on mitochondria, the powerhouse of our cells.
IV NAD, or Intravenous Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, is a natural coenzyme crucial for energy metabolism and cellular communication. Through IV NAD therapy, NAD levels can be increased, leading to improved mitochondrial function, enhanced energy production, and potential anti-aging benefits.
Haley and Lexi highlight the significance of mitochondrial health in the anti-aging process and discuss how optimizing mitochondrial function can positively impact overall well-being.
The episode emphasizes that IV NAD therapy is best utilized under the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals. Alongside this therapy, lifestyle factors such as regular exercise, a nutrient-rich diet, adequate sleep, stress management, and avoiding toxins can further support mitochondrial health and anti-aging goals.
Tune in to The Better Yoo Project for more episodes exploring ways to optimize health, hormones, and aesthetics for a better and healthier you!

Mar 29, 2023 • 32min
29. Part 2- Meet the New Nurse Practitioners Allen and Nikki!
🎙️ 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝗼 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁: 𝗢𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘇𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵, 𝗛𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀!
ᑭᗩᖇT 2: TᕼE ᑎEᗯ ᑎᑭᔕ
➡️ In this episode we learn about our two new nurse practitioners, Allen Stewart and Nichole Keserich, who have joined the Yoo Direct Health community. Allen has been in the medical field for 21 years and is certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. He has experience in ICU, family medicine, and urgent care. He has a personal experience with integrated medicine, which helped him lose weight and balance his hormones, and he has a passion for Men's Health. In his spare time, Allen enjoys lifting weights and spending time with his family. He is Biote Certified in pellet therapy and is working his way through the YDH Training Academy. He has also taking the Gi Map Boot camp course through Diagnostic Solutions 💩
💋 Nikki Keserich is a board-certified adult nurse practitioner who completed her education at Indiana University. She has been in healthcare since 2001 and has practiced as an advanced provider since 2006, with experience in trauma, women's health, general surgery, and hospital-based medicine. She has a strong interest in integrative medicine and enjoys staying active with her family and hobbies such as working out, knitting, and sewing. Nikki is looking forward to helping clients find the root cause of their symptoms and developing a treatment plan. She is also certified in BioTE method. Overall, both Allen and Nikki bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to Yoo Direct Health.

Mar 25, 2023 • 21min
28. The Nurse Practitioners of YDH!
In this episode I interview two of our veteran nurse practitioners, Haley Cook NP and Jessica Shaffer NP. They share their nursing career path and what lead them to who they are today. We then discuss some of the education that they continue to work on as they build their patient base and continue to add onto services at Yoo Direct Health. Haley shares her passion for IV therapy as well as new services such as musculoskeletal joint injections. Jess continues to work on her certifications in functional medicine as well as peptide therapy while being the sole provider at the YDH South location. Both are busy mom's, wives and find time to balance it all! Education is extremely important to me not only as a clinician but as a business owner, and it is just as important that my team and the practice invest in their education just as much as I do. We are so lucky to have them on our team. As a business owner and a leader, one of my goals is to see my team of NPs reach their full potential, its in no way easy, but together we are leading the charge for change in how we deliver health care as nurse practitioners!
I hope you enjoy the episode!

Mar 5, 2023 • 35min
27. YDH- the procedure nurses! Who are they?
New Podcast Episode featuring our 3 Procedure Nurses!
We’ve grown so much over the last four years, and we’ve just acquired three amazing procedure nurses. In this episode I will introduce Leigha, Chelsea, and Heather. All 3 of these RNs come with some very unique nursing backgrounds from ICU, travel nursing to med surg, labor and delivery, a nurse liaison role to even an aesthetics background, and all three share passion for learning about integrative medicine as well as their drive to help patients on root causes with the use of hormone optimization, thyroid care, microbiome balancing, ozone therapy and last but certainly not least peptides. They have been Biote Certified in hormone optimization and pellet therapy, are doing ozone training with SopMed and continue to work through my training academy content for peptides and all the other things we offer patients.
These RNs will help assist you in the portal if they are able to under the direction of their NPs, as well as follow up for repeat pellet therapy, your ozone therapy, and some of our peptide consults! We are so lucky to have them and can’t wait to watch them grow professionally.

Feb 26, 2023 • 47min
26. Nutraceuticals to support your patients on GLP1s
In this episode I review the use of GLP1s in conjunction with nutraceuticals to help mitigate side effects as well as dosing, and mechanism of action. I share how I help my patients maintain long-term success with peptides. I will also review other supplements you may want to stack when helping patients with weight loss. This episode is mainly for practitioners but patients could also benefit from some of the tips and tricks in achieving and maintaining weight loss success. If you are a practitioner and want to get on the email list to be enrolled in the YDH training academy where these protocols will be shared as well as dosing of the supplements please email ydhtrainingacademy@gmail.com!