ReInvent Healthcare
Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo
Reinvent Healthcare provides support, insight, and cutting edge information for health and wellness practitioners passionately committed to transforming our broken, disease-focused, healthcare system.
Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo, the founder of the Institute of Nutritional Endocrinology, shares more than 30 years of clinical experience using science-based, nutritional and natural approaches for successfully correcting the imbalances that lead to chronic disease. Her vast knowledge, infectious energy, and love for all things geeky will provide listeners with the kind of insights and information found nowhere else. Her commitment to and success in supporting the body's own ability to heal makes her a proven leader in the field of functional healthcare.
An internationally recognized nutrition and women’s health authority, Dr. Ritamarie’s goal is to provide practitioners with the knowledge and tools needed to guide their clients to optimal, lasting health. Reinvent Healthcare provides that rare opportunity to thoroughly explore complicated issues. Dr. Ritamarie and expert guests will devote an entire month to a complex health topic, focusing on specific aspects each week. In the final episode, she will respond to questions submitted by her listeners, making Reinvent Healthcare a uniquely interactive and personal experience.
Dr. Ritamarie leads the way in the exploration and use of proven, science-backed, restorative therapeutics that go well beyond treating symptoms and get to the root cause of disease. Using diet, exercise, adaptogens, fasting, intermittent fasting, effective and directed supplementation, blood sugar and ketone testing, vitamin and mineral analysis, and herbal therapy, Dr. Ritamarie proves repeatedly that our bodies have an innate wisdom to heal when supported properly.
A self-proclaimed geek with a gift for teaching, Dr. Ritamarie will use nutritional endocrinology, nutrigenomics, epigenetics, functional assessments, and comprehensive lab testing, to take a deep dive into the science behind stubborn, yet common conditions such as inflammation, diabetes, food allergies, parasites, hair loss, hyper and hypo thyroidism, insulin dysregulation, autoimmune disease, Alzheimer's, adrenal fatigue, metabolic imbalance, gluten sensitivity, and microbiome/GI tract issues. She will also explore recognized but lesser known holistic approaches that are moving to the forefront of the wellness industry.
Be sure to join Dr. Ritamarie and Reinvent Healthcare each week, your go-to podcast for finding solutions to a broken system, one success story at a time.
More about your host Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo
Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo is a best-selling author and speaker known for her extensive knowledge, infectious energy, and inspirational message that encourages individuals to become their own best health advocate. She is an internationally recognized nutrition and health authority who specializes in using the wisdom of nature to restore hormone balance with a special emphasis on thyroid, adrenal and insulin imbalances. She founded the Institute of Nutritional Endocrinology to empower health and nutrition practitioners to get to the root cause of health concerns by using functional assessments and natural therapeutics to balance the endocrine system, the body's master controller.
Dr. Ritamarie is a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic with Certification in Acupuncture and is a Diplomat of the American Clinical Nutrition Board. She is a Certified Clinical Nutritionist with a Master’s in Human Nutrition, has completed a 2-year, 500-hour Herbal Medicine Program at David Winston’s Center for Herbal Studies and has a master's degree in Computer Science, which contributes to her skills as an ace problem solver.
To explore her life-changing programs and receive a free guide to Hormone Balance, or for more information about Dr. Ritamarie, please visit her website at https://drritamarie.com.
Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo, the founder of the Institute of Nutritional Endocrinology, shares more than 30 years of clinical experience using science-based, nutritional and natural approaches for successfully correcting the imbalances that lead to chronic disease. Her vast knowledge, infectious energy, and love for all things geeky will provide listeners with the kind of insights and information found nowhere else. Her commitment to and success in supporting the body's own ability to heal makes her a proven leader in the field of functional healthcare.
An internationally recognized nutrition and women’s health authority, Dr. Ritamarie’s goal is to provide practitioners with the knowledge and tools needed to guide their clients to optimal, lasting health. Reinvent Healthcare provides that rare opportunity to thoroughly explore complicated issues. Dr. Ritamarie and expert guests will devote an entire month to a complex health topic, focusing on specific aspects each week. In the final episode, she will respond to questions submitted by her listeners, making Reinvent Healthcare a uniquely interactive and personal experience.
Dr. Ritamarie leads the way in the exploration and use of proven, science-backed, restorative therapeutics that go well beyond treating symptoms and get to the root cause of disease. Using diet, exercise, adaptogens, fasting, intermittent fasting, effective and directed supplementation, blood sugar and ketone testing, vitamin and mineral analysis, and herbal therapy, Dr. Ritamarie proves repeatedly that our bodies have an innate wisdom to heal when supported properly.
A self-proclaimed geek with a gift for teaching, Dr. Ritamarie will use nutritional endocrinology, nutrigenomics, epigenetics, functional assessments, and comprehensive lab testing, to take a deep dive into the science behind stubborn, yet common conditions such as inflammation, diabetes, food allergies, parasites, hair loss, hyper and hypo thyroidism, insulin dysregulation, autoimmune disease, Alzheimer's, adrenal fatigue, metabolic imbalance, gluten sensitivity, and microbiome/GI tract issues. She will also explore recognized but lesser known holistic approaches that are moving to the forefront of the wellness industry.
Be sure to join Dr. Ritamarie and Reinvent Healthcare each week, your go-to podcast for finding solutions to a broken system, one success story at a time.
More about your host Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo
Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo is a best-selling author and speaker known for her extensive knowledge, infectious energy, and inspirational message that encourages individuals to become their own best health advocate. She is an internationally recognized nutrition and health authority who specializes in using the wisdom of nature to restore hormone balance with a special emphasis on thyroid, adrenal and insulin imbalances. She founded the Institute of Nutritional Endocrinology to empower health and nutrition practitioners to get to the root cause of health concerns by using functional assessments and natural therapeutics to balance the endocrine system, the body's master controller.
Dr. Ritamarie is a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic with Certification in Acupuncture and is a Diplomat of the American Clinical Nutrition Board. She is a Certified Clinical Nutritionist with a Master’s in Human Nutrition, has completed a 2-year, 500-hour Herbal Medicine Program at David Winston’s Center for Herbal Studies and has a master's degree in Computer Science, which contributes to her skills as an ace problem solver.
To explore her life-changing programs and receive a free guide to Hormone Balance, or for more information about Dr. Ritamarie, please visit her website at https://drritamarie.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 20, 2023 • 21min
What You Need To Know About CGMs
In today's episode, I talk about a device that is reshaping the landscape of personal health — Continuous Glucose Meters (CGMs). Join me as I go over the importance of CGMs and their impact on the lives of our clients. From monitoring glucose levels to unveiling crucial insights into metabolic health, I explore how CGMs are not just devices but catalysts for positive change. So let's dive in and discover the transformative power of CGMs together.IN THIS EPISODE:Importance of Continuous Glucose Meters (CGMs)Continuous Glucose Meters (CGMs) play a crucial role as valuable tools in monitoring glucose levels continuously, especially considering that 93% of the population exhibits signs of metabolic illness, indicating issues with glucose and insulin regulation. The significance lies in the ability to monitor glucose to address potential health challenges, ranging from common issues like excess belly fat and fatigue to more severe conditions such as kidney problems and cardiovascular issues. Therefore, the continuous tracking provided by CGMs is essential for understanding and managing the metabolic health of our clients.How and Where to Get CGMsCGMs, exemplified by brands like Dexcom and Abbott Freestyle Libre, are devices affixed to the arm or belly to monitor glucose levels continuously. Multiple companies manufacture CGMs, and practitioners can recommend these devices for their clients. There are various CGM models, such as Dexcom G6, Freestyle Libre 2, and the more recent Dexcom G7 available. While encountering resistance in prescribing through conventional means, there are alternative avenues for you and your clients to acquire CGMs, including online pharmacies and third-party companies, expanding accessibility to these valuable monitoring tools.CGM Issues and HesitationsAlthough CGMs are revolutionary tools in managing and understanding metabolic health, like any technology, they come with certain issues and concerns. One primary concern revolves around the perceived pain associated with CGM insertion. While the devices are designed to be relatively painless, users may still experience initial discomfort or apprehension. Financial considerations also play a role, with some individuals facing challenges in covering the costs of CGMs. However, solutions such as exploring coupons or prescription assistance programs can help alleviate this concern. Integrating CGMs into daily life activities, like showering or swimming, raises questions about the devices' durability and practicality. While addressing these concerns, the podcast emphasizes the importance of educating users on calibrating and spot-checking for accuracy, offering insights into optimizing CGM use. Additionally, privacy and data security concerns arise, prompting a need for individuals to understand how their data is handled and stored. Important ReInvent Healthcare Links Access Additional Resources for Practitioners ready to improve clinical outcomes through our Nutritional Endocrinology Practitioner Training. Visit the ReInvent Healthcare site to check out other podcast episodes and resources to support you in empowering your clients health recovery journeysCheck out my Insulin Resistance Course here. Learn more about Theia Health here.
Dec 13, 2023 • 17min
Why You Need To Teach Clients To Test Their Glucose
In today's episode, I delve into the transformative power of early blood sugar detection and monitoring. I also talk about the pivotal role personalized testing plays in understanding the impact of stress, sleep, exercise, diet on glucose levels, and explore the significance of Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) in providing real-time data, unraveling key trends that traditional markers may miss. Join me as I discuss practical strategies for overcoming testing barriers to optimize health through proactive blood sugar management. Stay tuned for valuable insights that will elevate your functional practice.IN THIS EPISODE:Early Detection and Monitoring of Blood SugarEarly detection of blood sugar levels is often delayed in conventional medicine leading to preventable complications. This is the importance of a proactive approach. Monitoring blood sugar helps us understand how daily factors like stress, sleep, exercise, and diet affect glucose levels. Identifying blood sugar issues early is crucial to prevent clients from developing insulin resistance and diabetes, and avoiding complications like damage to the retina, kidneys, blood vessels, and nerves. This highlights the essential role of timely intervention in managing blood sugar for overall health.Importance of Personal Blood Sugar TestingUsing regular at-home blood sugar testing is crucial. It goes beyond the reliance on traditional markers like fasting blood sugar and emphasizes the importance of checking after-meal levels. The focus is on personalized monitoring, empowering both us as health practitioners and our clients to make informed lifestyle changes. This method helps identify specific foods that affect each individual by testing blood glucose after meals and examining how blood sugar levels change due to stress, sleep, and diet, practitioners can uncover details missed in broad recommendations. Promoting a culture of individualized blood sugar testing allows functional practitioners to play a key role in encouraging proactive health management and tailored interventions for optimal well-being.Utilizing Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) for Enhanced InsightsContinuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) offer real-time information about glucose levels, giving a clearer picture of how lifestyle choices affect blood sugar. They help spot trends, revealing the impact of factors like stress, sleep, and exercise on glucose levels. It's crucial to address testing barriers, like fear of pain or financial worries, as the advantages of early detection far outweigh the potential costs linked to diabetes-related complications.Important ReInvent Healthcare Links Access Additional Resources for Practitioners ready to improve clinical outcomes through our Nutritional Endocrinology Practitioner Training. Visit the ReInvent Healthcare site to check out other podcast episodes and resources to support you in empowering your clients health recovery journeysCheck out my Insulin Resistance Course here.
Dec 6, 2023 • 29min
Essential Oils for Functional Health with Jodi Cohen
In this episode of ReInvent Healthcare, I have a very special guest, Jodi Cohen, and together we talk about the wonders of essential oils and how these can help support patients and clients who have certain health problems. Jodi Sternoff Cohen is a bestselling author, award-winning journalist, functional practitioner and founder of Vibrant Blue Oils, where she has combined her training in nutritional therapy and aromatherapy to create unique proprietary blends of organic and wild-crafted essential oils. She has helped over 50,000 clients heal from brain related challenges, including anxiety, insomnia, and autoimmunity.For the past ten years, Jodi has lectured at wellness centers, conferences, and corporations on brain health, essential oils, stress, and detoxification. She has been seen in The New York Times, Wellness Mama, Elephant Journal and numerous publications. Her website, vibrantblueoils.com, is visited by over 300,000 natural health seekers every year, and she has rapidly become a top resource for essential oils education on the Internet today. IN THIS EPISODE:Neck as a BottleneckWe explore the notion of the neck as a bottleneck, looking at its role in bridging the connection between the brain and the body.Together we discuss how congestion in the neck can impact the flow of nutrients, oxygen, and the removal of toxins from the head down into the body affecting the gut-brain axis.Three Key Components for HealthWe discuss the vital components related to neck health: the vagus nerve, lymphatic system, and fascia. The vagus nerve's role in triggering digestion, detoxification, and immune response is highlighted, along with the significance of lymphatic drainage and the impact of fascia constriction on affecting the efficiency of detoxification.Holistic Approach Using Essential OilsA holistic approach is recommended for addressing neck congestion, with a specific emphasis on using essential oils. Jodi Cohen also introduces a unique blend called "Fascia Release," advocating for the topical application of essential oils to promote lymph drainage, address vagus nerve issues, and alleviate fascia constriction. We discuss the importance of following a specific order to efficiently move the lymph and release congestion.Jodi Cohen LinksVisit the Vibrant Blue Oils website here. Like the Vibrant Blue Oils Facebook page here. Follow Vibrant Blue Oils on Instagram here. Subscribe to the Vibrant Blue Oils YouTube channel here.Check out the Drain the Brain Webinar here.Important ReInvent Healthcare Links Get our free Functional Food Guide to learn more about foods and herbs to support clients on healing For an in depth study of herbs and medicinal mushrooms, check out “Practical Herbal Therapeutics”Access Additional Resources for Practitioners ready to improve clinical outcomes through our Nutritional Endocrinology Practitioner Training. Visit the ReInvent Healthcare site to check out other podcast episodes and resources to support you in empowering your clients health recovery journeys
Nov 29, 2023 • 14min
Relax and Sleep with Ease using Passionflower
In this episode of ReInvent Healthcare, I talk about a very special herb called Passionflower. This is one of my favorite herbs to help me rest with its relaxing properties. If you haven’t tried this yet, I go in-depth in this episode so you can learn more about it and consider incorporating it into the lives of your clients to support them if they have insomnia or sleep problems. Listen to the episode to learn more.IN THIS EPISODE:Calming Properties and Sleep AidPassionflower is known for its sedative-like properties and has been traditionally used for insomnia, supporting those who struggle with both falling asleep and staying asleep, as well as aids in calming down the nervous system, and is particularly effective in addressing a racing mind that interferes with sleep. Neurotransmitter RegulationPassion Flower contains bioactive compounds like the flavonoid Chrysin, which acts as an anxiolytic by affecting GABA receptors. GABA is crucial for calming the mind especially in cases where individuals have issues with GABA down-regulation. It is also adept at stimulating serotonin levels, which provides a calming effect and is good for those dealing with anxiety and mood disorders.Additional Health BenefitsLinalool, a compound found in lavender, is also found in Passionflower. This possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which makes it beneficial for conditions related to inflammation and oxidative stress such as cardiovascular diseases. It also has a tonifying effect on the nervous system in general, helping to relax muscles and alleviate pain and spasms. Note that this is not a cure but Passionflower may also be considered for those with tendencies toward epileptic seizures and a supportive remedy for those with autoimmune diseases that can be considered in combination with other tools and remedies.Important ReInvent Healthcare Links Get our free Functional Food Guide to learn more about foods and herbs to support clients on healing For an in depth study of herbs and medicinal mushrooms, check out “Practical Herbal Therapeutics”Access Additional Resources for Practitioners ready to improve clinical outcomes through our Nutritional Endocrinology Practitioner Training. Visit my ReInvent Healthcare site to check out other episodes that will be beneficial to you and your clients. Grab a copy of my Kitchen Herbalism Bundle here. Get your FREE gift about sleep optimization here.
Nov 22, 2023 • 20min
Manage Stress, Anxiety, and more with Magnolia Bark
In this episode of ReInvent Healthcare, I talk about one of my favorite herbs, Magnolia Bark. This wonderful herb can support your clients to sleep, relax, and calm their anxieties due to its bioactive compounds and nutrients. Listen to the episode to learn more.IN THIS EPISODE:Cortisol Regulation and Sleep AidMagnolia bark has the ability to bring cortisol levels into normal ranges, making it effective for stress management. It can also be used as a sleep aid due to its calming effects, affecting the neurotransmitter lGABA, which is crucial for relaxation and sleep. Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant EffectsMagnolia exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting COX-2 activity, providing a natural approach to inflammation without the side effects associated with certain drugs. As an antioxidant, Magnolia helps neutralize free radicals, supporting cardiovascular health, protecting organs, and enhancing cellular health.Gut Health and Microbiome SupportMagnolia can contribute to gut health by increasing the diversity of the microbiome and calming the digestive tract. Its anti-inflammatory effects may be beneficial for conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and it could be considered as an adjunct therapy for gut-related symptoms.Important ReInvent Healthcare Links Get our free Functional Food Guide to learn more about foods and herbs to support clients on healing For an in depth study of herbs and medicinal mushrooms and, check out “Practical Herbal Therapeutics”Access Additional Resources for Practitioners ready to improve clinical outcomes through our Nutritional Endocrinology Practitioner Training. Visit my ReInvent Healthcare site to check out other episodes that will be beneficial to you and your clients.
Nov 15, 2023 • 29min
Cordyceps The Functional Fungi
In this episode of ReInvent Healthcare, I talk about one of my favorite fungi to recommend to people and it’s Cordyceps. The use of Cordyceps dates back thousands of years and is shown to have great respiratory, cardiovascular, blood sugar, and even neurological benefits. Make sure you listen to the full episode to learn more.In this episode of ReInvent Healthcare, I talk about one of my favorite fungi - Cordyceps. The use of Cordyceps dates back thousands of years and is shown to have great respiratory, cardiovascular, blood sugar, and even neurological benefits. Make sure you listen to the full episode to learn more.IN THIS EPISODE:Historical Medicinal UseCordyceps, a parasitic fungus, has a rich history of medicinal use in Tibetan and Chinese medicine. It has been employed to address issues such as fatigue, kidney disorders, respiratory ailments, and to enhance athletic performance. The historical use dates back centuries, emphasizing its enduring significance in traditional medicine.Nutritional and Medicinal ContentCordyceps is not only valued for its medicinal properties but also for its nutritional content. It contains amino acids, vitamins (such as B vitamins), and minerals (iron, zinc, selenium), addressing deficiencies that are common in many individuals. The presence of polysaccharides contributes to its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects. It also contains bioactive compounds like cordycepin, adenosine, and cordymin, each with distinct health benefits.Diverse Health BenefitsCordyceps demonstrates a wide range of health benefits. It’s known for enhancing the immune system, improving endurance and energy without the jitteriness associated with stimulants, reducing inflammation, supporting cardiovascular health by regulating blood pressure and cholesterol, aiding in blood sugar regulation, and promoting respiratory health by improving lung function. Additionally, cordyceps show promise in neurocognitive protection, potentially guarding against conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and it may even have positive effects on mood and appetite regulation. The herb's adaptogenic properties contribute to stress mitigation, making it a holistic addition to health and wellness practices.Listen in for all the details!ReInvent Healthcare Links Get our FREE Guide to Taking a Detailed Health History that gets you to root causes.Access Additional Resources for Practitioners ready to improve clinical outcomes through our Nutritional Endocrinology Practitioner Training. Visit my ReInvent Healthcare site to check out other episodes that will be beneficial to you and your clients.For an in depth study of medicinal mushrooms and other herbs, check out Practical Herbal Therapeutics You can also check out my Functional Food Guide here.
Nov 8, 2023 • 20min
The Wonders of Hawthorn Berry
In this episode of ReInvent Healthcare, I talk about one of my favorite herbs that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, the Hawthorn Berry. This herb is a great antioxidant, is good for the cardiovascular system, and it has a whole list of other unique properties that are sure to help your clients gain optimal health. Listen to the whole episode to find out more. IN THIS EPISODE:Hawthorn Berry Cardiovascular BenefitsHawthorn berry, also known as Crataegus, is well-regarded for its cardiovascular benefits. It is known for its ability to strengthen the heart muscle, lower blood pressure, and improve blood flow. It can help relax blood vessels, reduce peripheral resistance, and protect the heart from oxidative stress, making it a valuable herb for heart health.Important Bioactive CompoundsHawthorn berry contains several bioactive compounds that contribute to its effectiveness. Some of these include flavonoids like quercetin and hyperocide, which have vasodilatory effects and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, oligomeric proanthocyanidins and triterpene acids found in Hawthorn berry help strengthen blood vessel walls, reduce chronic inflammation, and act as antioxidants.Clinical StudiesThere have been several clinical studies that support the benefits of Hawthorn berry. For instance, a 2008 meta-analysis of 14 clinical trials found that Hawthorn extracts were associated with significant improvements in exercise tolerance, reduction of chest pain on exertion, and overall heart health. Another study from 2009 showed that Hawthorn Berry extract, when used in combination with standard heart failure medication, improved symptoms and quality of life in patients with chronic heart failure. Additionally, a 2013 study reported that Hawthorn supplementation led to significant reductions in blood pressure and improvements in cholesterol levels.ReInvent Healthcare Links Get our FREE Guide to Taking a Detailed Health History that gets you to root causes.Access Additional Resources for Practitioners ready to improve clinical outcomes through our Nutritional Endocrinology Practitioner Training. Visit my ReInvent Healthcare site to check out other episodes that will be beneficial to you and your clients. You can also check out my Cardiovascular theme here.
Nov 1, 2023 • 59min
What You Need To Know About Trauma with Dr. Irene Cop
In this episode of ReInvent healthcare, I have a very special guest, Dr. Irene Cop, who is the CEO and founder of the Success SHIFT Institute. Together we talk about the types of traumas, the impacts they hold, and the importance of understanding the different types of trauma when working with clients. IN THIS EPISODE:The Impact of TraumaTrauma can manifest in various ways, including autoimmune disorders, cancer, increased infections, chronic pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, Alzheimer's, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. It's essential to recognize the hidden factor of trauma's impact on health to better understand our clients, their background, and even their willingness to follow your recommendations. Understanding Trauma HistoryTo effectively address trauma, it's important to ask not only about a person's past but also about their family history and potential emotional traumas experienced by family members. Exploring family constellations, a process that examines how family dynamics and history affect individuals, can be valuable in understanding the energetics of trauma.Trauma Healing TechniquesWhen working with clients who have experienced trauma, consider the impact of meditation and mindfulness. In some cases, meditation may not be suitable for individuals in survival mode. Instead, you can use structured techniques to help clients shift from a sympathetic state to a parasympathetic state, such as counting breaths, active meditation, or physical actions that create positive emotions. These techniques help regulate the nervous system and promote healing.Unrecognized TraumasThere is a significance of recognizing and addressing unrecognized traumas. Many individuals may not realize the extent of the trauma they've experienced until they reflect upon it and consider how it has affected them and how it manifests in their health later on in life.Epigenetic TraumaTrauma experienced by previous generations can affect the genetic expression of subsequent generations. Research studies show that trauma can modify the expression of DNA, affecting an individual's predisposition to stress and disease. This underscores the importance of recognizing the intergenerational and cultural impact of trauma to better understand and help clients. Dr. Irene Cop LinksFollow Dr. Irene’s Facebook page here.Check out the Success SHIFT Institute here. ReInvent Healthcare Links Get our FREE Guide to Taking a Detailed Health History that gets you to root causes.Access Additional Resources for Practitioners ready to improve clinical outcomes through our Nutritional Endocrinology Practitioner Training. Visit my ReInvent Healthcare site to check out other episodes that will be beneficial to you and your clients. You can also check out my Cardiovascular theme here.
Oct 25, 2023 • 13min
Blood Testing and Genetics
In this episode of ReInvent healthcare, I dive deep into more comprehensive blood testing and how to combine that with genetic testing. I also share how essential it is to personalize care and use a holistic approach based on genetics, appropriate testing, and a comprehensive health history, and lifestyle to effectively get a clear picture of the health of our clients. IN THIS EPISODE:The Importance of Comprehensive Blood Testing There is a significance of more extensive blood testing beyond what is traditionally done in medicine. Standard tests often do not provide a complete picture of a person's health, and a more comprehensive set of blood tests can help identify various risk factors and imbalances of our clients in order to help them better.Testing Before a DiagnosisDoctors should not wait until someone is diagnosed with a disease before conducting certain tests. Proactive testing is important to identify clients at risk of developing health issues, before they have received a formal diagnosis. Genetics in Blood TestingThere is a synergy between genetics and blood testing. Genetic markers can guide which blood tests are most appropriate for our clients and the results of blood tests can provide insights into a person's genetic predispositions, helping us as healthcare professionals tailor our recommendations and interventions accordingly.ReInvent Healthcare Links Get our FREE Guide to Taking a Detailed Health History that gets you to root causes.Access Additional Resources for Practitioners ready to improve clinical outcomes through our Nutritional Endocrinology Practitioner Training. Visit my ReInvent Healthcare site to check out other episodes that will be beneficial to you and your clients. You can also check out my Cardiovascular theme here. Attend SHINE Conference 2023: Genetics, Assessments, and Nutritional Strategies for Optimal Cardiovascular Function where Dr. Ellie will be speaking, along with Dr. Joel Kahn Dr. Alan Hopkins, Dr, Christy Sutton, and more.
Oct 18, 2023 • 21min
Breaking Down Hypertension: Navigating Genetic Risk Factors for Functional Wellness
Today, I delve into the intricate interplay between hypertension and genetic predisposition, shedding light on how specific genes can influence blood pressure and increase the risk of this prevalent health concern. I will not only explore the genetic factors contributing to hypertension but also focus on actionable strategies that we as functional practitioners can employ to prevent and manage high blood pressure effectively. From dietary interventions to targeted supplementation and stress reduction techniques, we'll uncover a holistic approach to empower both practitioners and individuals to take control of their cardiovascular health. IN THIS EPISODE:Understanding HypertensionHypertension, characterized by elevated blood pressure, particularly when it surpasses the threshold of 120 over 80, is a critical health concern due to its potential to result in severe complications, including strokes and debilitating headaches. This condition is thoroughly defined in the opening section, emphasizing its medical significance and the risks associated with it, such as strokes and other disabilities.Genetic FactorsGenetic factors are known to exert a significant influence on hypertension. Specific genes, namely ACE (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme), AGTR1 (Angiotensin 2 receptor), NOS (nitric oxide synthase), and CYP11B2 (aldosterone synthase), have been pinpointed as key contributors to high blood pressure. These genetic elements play a pivotal role in critical physiological processes like kidney function, sodium regulation, and vasodilation, all of which are intricately linked to the control of blood pressure. The discussion surrounding these specific genetic factors and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), including ACE, AGTR1, NOS, and CYP11B2, offers valuable insights into the genetic underpinnings of hypertension and how these SNPs impact the intricate mechanisms governing blood pressure regulation.Functional ApproachesFunctional practitioners play a pivotal role in assisting individuals dealing with hypertension by employing a multifaceted approach. These strategies encompass dietary adjustments, such as increasing foods high in potassium, magnesium, and CoQ10, stress alleviation methods like meditation and yoga, regular exercise, and genetic profiling to personalize interventions. Additionally, the importance of accurate blood pressure measurement is highlighted, advocating the necessity of taking multiple readings to mitigate white coat hypertension and ensure precise results. The transcript underscores the critical role of lifestyle modifications, including stress-reduction techniques and dietary changes, such as adhering to the DASH diet, optimizing potassium and magnesium intake, and incorporating supplements like taurine to effectively lower blood pressure. ReInvent Healthcare Links Get our FREE Guide to Taking a Detailed Health History that gets you to root causes.Access Additional Resources for Practitioners ready to improve clinical outcomes through our Nutritional Endocrinology Practitioner Training. Visit my ReInvent Healthcare site to check out other episodes that will be beneficial to you and your clients. You can also check out my Cardiovascular theme here. Attend SHINE Conference 2023: Genetics, Assessments, and Nutritional Strategies for Optimal Cardiovascular Function where Dr. Ellie will be speaking, along with Dr. Joel Kahn Dr. Alan Hopkins, Dr, Christy Sutton, and more.
