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
Oct 11, 2023 • 24min
Navigating LDL Particles and Its Implications for Optimal Cardiovascular Wellness
In this episode of ReInvent healthcare, I dive deep into LDL Particles and what those mean for cardiovascular health. I also share how essential it is to personalize care and use a holistic approach based on genetics and lifestyle, and to examine a full lipid profile to effectively manage the cardiovascular health of our clients. IN THIS EPISODE:LDL Particles Are Not All the SameIt's essential to understand that not all LDL particles are created equal. LDL stands for low-density lipoproteins and plays a crucial role in transporting cholesterol and fats throughout the body. However, high levels of LDL, especially small, dense particles, can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis, heart disease, and strokes. As functional practitioners, it is important to understand this in order to tailor approaches for every individual.Particle Size MattersThe size and density of LDL particles matter when assessing cardiovascular risk. Smaller, denser LDL particles are more atherogenic and susceptible to oxidation, making them more harmful than larger, buoyant particles. These small particles are associated with higher triglyceride levels and often observed in individuals with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.Comprehensive Assessment Is KeyStandard lipid panels, which measure cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides, are not enough to assess cardiovascular risk fully. Functional practitioners should consider advanced lipid panels that include particle size and number, assess for oxidized LDL, and examine Lp(a) lipoprotein. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and stress management, play a significant role in influencing LDL particle characteristics and should be addressed to reduce cardiovascular risk.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 4, 2023 • 43min
The Link Between Oral Health and Cardiovascular Disease with Dr. Ellie Campbell
This week on ReInvent Healthcare, I have a very special guest, Dr. Ellie Campbell, and together we go over the connection between oral care and the risk of cardiovascular disease. We also go over the tests that can be done as well as signs to watch out for when it comes to assessing clients who are showing symptoms or are at risk. .Dr. Ellie Campbell is a functional medicine doctor who specializes in cardiovascular disease prevention and hypertension. She is also the author of The Blood Pressure Blueprint which is a holistic guide to tackle hypertension. IN THIS EPISODE:Oral Health and Cardiovascular DiseaseOral care can significantly impact cardiovascular disease through a complex interplay of factors. Poor oral hygiene and gum disease can lead to chronic inflammation in the mouth, which may release inflammatory molecules into the bloodstream. Harmful bacteria from the mouth can also enter the bloodstream, potentially contributing to the formation of arterial plaque and triggering immune responsesThe body's immune response to oral infections can lead to increased production of white blood cells and inflammatory markers, promoting atherosclerosis and clot formation. Also, oral health can influence existing cardiovascular conditions, such as increasing the risk of bacterial endocarditis in individuals with heart valve issues. That is why maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing oral health concerns can play a crucial role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.Importance of BiomarkersBiomarkers play a vital role in understanding the relationship between oral care and cardiovascular disease. These biomarkers provide measurable indicators of the body's response to oral health and can help identify potential risks and underlying mechanisms.Some biomarkers to take note of are Lp-PLA2 as well as Myeloperoxidase. These biomarkers can provide clues to the presence of dental infections and inflammation.Collaboration between Medical and Dental PractitionersIn order to address the oral-systemic connection, there is a need for a collaboration between medical doctors and dentists. By working together, we can identify and treat dental conditions that may contribute to cardiovascular risk and improve the overall health of our clients. Dr. Ellie Campbell LinksGrab a copy of Dr. Ellie Campbell’s book here.Visit Dr. Ellie Campbell’s website here.Learn about the Campbell Family Medicine group here. Follow Dr. Ellie Campbell on Facebook here. Check out the Campbell Family Medicine Facebook page 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. 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.
Sep 27, 2023 • 22min
Mastering Lipoproteins: A Functional Practitioner's Guide to Cardiovascular Health
This week on ReInvent Healthcare, I talk about a topic that not very many practitioners talk about these days - Lipoprotein A. I’ll go in depth on how it affects the cardiovascular system, the genetic factors involved, testing that we can do, as well as some approaches for lifestyle and diet choices that can help bring down Lipoproteins. IN THIS EPISODE:Understanding the Significance of Lp(a)The Lp(a) is a lipoprotein particle in the bloodstream that is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease that resembles LDL cholesterol but is denser and even more dangerous. It can easily pass into the inner lining of blood vessels, leading to plaque formation, inflammation, increased clotting, and an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and aortic stenosis. We need to be knowledgeable about its characteristics, its role in plaque formation, inflammation, and clotting within blood vessels, and how it can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and aortic stenosis. The Role of Genetic FactorsElevated Lp(a) levels are estimated to be 90% hereditary, making it crucial to assess genetic risk factors. Certain genetic variants linked to Lp(a)are associated with a shorter lifespan and a higher risk of aortic stenosis. We should consider genetic testing, especially in individuals with a family history of heart disease, to assess the presence of Lp(a)-related genetic variants. Dietary and Supplemental ApproachesWhile there is no consensus on the best diet for heart disease, a whole foods diet rich in antioxidants, combined with specific supplements like niacin, ginkgo biloba, berberine, vitamin C, and L-carnitine, can potentially lower Lp(a) levels and improve overall cardiovascular health. Individualized approaches are essential, and regular testing is recommended to monitor progress and adjust interventions as needed. 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.
Sep 20, 2023 • 22min
Functional Medicine and APOE: Keys to Cardiovascular and Alzheimer's Prevention
Apolipoprotein E (APOE) ImportanceAPOE is a protein that plays a central role in lipid metabolism, neurobiology, and is implicated in the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. APOE is a critical factor to consider when assessing your client’s risk for cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's. Understanding the significance of APOE in these contexts is essential for tailoring effective health improvement strategies.Genetic Variants of APOE and Their ImplicationsAPOE can exist in different genetic variants, including APOE2, APOE3, and APOE4. These variants have varying effects on the client's risk for diseases like Alzheimer's and cardiovascular disease. APOE4, in particular, is associated with a higher risk, while APOE2 is considered protective. Understanding a person's APOE genetic makeup is crucial for tailoring lifestyle and dietary recommendations.Individualized Approaches to Health and Risk ReductionIndividualized approaches to health based on genetics, lifestyle, and risk factors are important. It highlights the role of diet, particularly cautioning against certain diets like high-saturated fat diets for individuals with APOE4 variants. These personalized strategies empower clients to proactively manage their health and mitigate potential risks.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. Create Nutrition Plans to help your clients eat to maximize their energy with my Nutrigenomics bundle here. If you want to dive even further, grab the chance to purchase my NES Nutrigenomics in Clinical Practice here.
Sep 13, 2023 • 26min
The Power Of Choice In Empowering Clients To Reaching Their Health Goals with Kim DeYoung
This week on ReInvent Healthcare, I have a very special guest, KIm DeYoung. Together, we tackle a topic that is relevant for us practitioners and for clients as well. We all have the power of choice and it is up to us to help guide our clients to make the right choices when it comes to conquering their health issues and symptoms. Listen in on how choice can empower and motivate us to make the right decisions that will positively impact lives. IN THIS EPISODE:The Importance Of ChoicesEach one of us makes an estimated 35,000 choices per day, from deciding what to wear to what to eat. As functional practitioners, we should be able to help clients make the right choices when they come to us for help in dealing with chronic illnesses, symptoms, and important health decisions. Empowering ClientsWe as healthcare practitioners can empower our clients to make the best choices for their well-being. We must understand our role in helping clients understand why their choices matter and how to bring thoughtfulness and intentionality to decision-making so that they can lead healthy, optimized lives.The Concept Of Choice MappingChoice Mapping is a tool that can help our clients and us practitioners to visually capture the components of a choice, including why it matters, potential obstacles, possibilities, and actions to take. It is important in decision making matters, especially those that can directly affect health and lives. Kim DeYoung LinksHead to Kim DeYoung’s website here.Grab your copy of The Book Of Choice here.Get the free Choice Questions offering here. Follow Kim DeYoung on Instagram here. ReInvent Healthcare LinksGet 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.
Sep 6, 2023 • 19min
Genetic Markers & Lab Tests for Inflammation and Immunity Disorders
This week on ReInvent Healthcare, I go in-depth on genetic markers that relate to inflammation and autoimmune conditions. I also go over certain lab tests that can be done in order to discover which genes are expressing as well as things that can be done so that our clients can get the proper care and support they need. IN THIS EPISODE:The Relationship Between Genetic Markers and InflammationIt is important to understand genetic markers that predispose our clients to inflammation and autoimmune conditions. Being able to recognize and understand these genetic tendencies and how they can be linked to various health issues, including autoimmune diseases and gluten intolerance can give you a better understanding of how to better help your clients so you can guide them with the proper diet, lifestyle, and nutrients that they need.The Role of Lab Testing in Identifying Inflammatory MarkersDoing the proper lab tests and checking for significant markers including Highly sensitive C-reactive protein (HS-CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and homocysteine, in assessing inflammation levels is highly important. These tests provide valuable information for identifying inflammation and potential underlying causes, such as nutrient deficiencies and fatty acid imbalances.Motivating Clients to Make Lifestyle ChangesKnowing about our clients’ genetic markers, lab results, and what they are predisposed to should help us be able to motivate our clients to make necessary lifestyle changes. By educating clients about their genetic predispositions and showing them tangible evidence through testing, we can empower them to take proactive steps to improve their health, such as adopting specific dietary changes and managing stress levels.ReInvent Healthcare LinksGet 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. Visit this link to check my free Immune Guide. Check out my other episodes on Functional Immunology here.
Aug 30, 2023 • 41min
The Power Of A Complete Blood Chemistry And Gene Assessment To Level-Up and Future-Proof Your Health Practice with Dr. Yvonne Castillo
This week on ReInvent Healthcare, I have with me a very special guest, Dr, Yvonne Castillo, and together we talk about the importance of practitioners having clinical competence, critical thinking skills, and compassionate care in order to effectively guide clients towards positive health outcomes. The integration of genetics, lab results, and comprehensive histories can lead to tailored strategies for improved health that will be beneficial for our clients. IN THIS EPISODE:Shift in Healthcare and AttitudesThere has been a significant shift over the last few years, particularly due to the pandemic. People have started to value their health more and have realized the importance of being proactive and not taking their health for granted. There's also a shift from passive healthcare to a more dynamic and proactive approach. People are starting to see that they are an individual and the conventional medical system doesn’t individualize healthcare.Holistic View of HealthThe pandemic has led to a change in people's perspectives on health. Instead of viewing health as isolated symptoms, there's a growing understanding of how different factors are interconnected and can compound over time. This holistic view emphasizes the importance of addressing weak links and imbalances to prevent future health issues.Trends and family history must be examined with labs and genetics to make wise decisions in care for clients. AI doesn’t provide this comprehensive view of looking at where clients are today on their health journey.Rise of Functional Medicine and IndividualizationThere is increased interest in functional medicine and alternative approaches to healthcare. People are becoming more educated about their health, researching on their own, and seeking individualized solutions. The use of AI and apps can provide information, but it's crucial for practitioners to use these tools with the labs, with the history, and with a personalized view to interpret and communicate the data effectively to create actionable plans for clients. Good practitioners do a thorough health history, look at genetic tendencies and the labs and trends found in the labs, and use these to lead the client to make positive behavior change in an actionable manner that is not overwhelming. The key is to teach clients how to apply the information they are gathering to their individualized needs.References:Dr. Yvonne Castillo LinksCheck out Dr. Yvonne’s website here.Like Dr. Yvonne’s Facebook page here. Join the Pain-Free + Powerful Facebook group here. Follow Dr. Yvonne on Instagram here.Watch Dr. Yvonne’s YouTube videos here. Receive your FREE GIFT here: The Pain-Free Body Blueprint (15-minute Mini-course) ReInvent Healthcare LinksGet 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. Listen to my episode about Caffeine and Estrogen here. Join my Next-Level Health Practitioner Facebook group here.
Aug 23, 2023 • 19min
Serious Thyroid Testing Mistakes
This week on ReInvent Healthcare, I go over the biggest mistakes that doctors make when they test the thyroid. I also go over other types of tests that can be done in order to get to the root cause of clients’ dysfunctions. IN THIS EPISODE:Reliance on TSH as the Sole IndicatorDoctors often rely solely on testing Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels to diagnose thyroid dysfunction. However, TSH levels might fall within the medically accepted "normal" range, even when a patient exhibits clear symptoms of thyroid dysfunction like dry skin, constipation, high cholesterol, depression, exhaustion, and weight issues. This over-reliance on TSH can lead to misdiagnosis or the dismissal of thyroid-related problems. Incomplete Testing and Ignoring SymptomsNot considering a comprehensive thyroid panel. While TSH is important, it should be complemented with tests for total T4, free T4, and free T3 levels. Additionally, antibodies such as thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and antithyroid globulin (TgAB) should be tested to identify autoimmune thyroid conditions. Doctors often ignore a patient's symptoms when conventional tests come back within the "normal" range, rather than considering whether the tests themselves might be inadequate or if other underlying issues are present.Neglecting Receptor Function and Root CausesDoctors frequently overlook the importance of receptors that allow thyroid hormones to enter cells and take action. Factors like high homocysteine levels, low vitamin A, stress-induced cortisol imbalances, and toxic exposures can disrupt receptor function and the effectiveness of thyroid hormones. Rather than addressing these root causes, patients are often prescribed medications for individual symptoms without considering the thyroid's underlying dysfunction.References: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. Check out other episodes on Thyroid here. Here’s the free guide for you to help Optimize Thyroid Function.
Aug 16, 2023 • 19min
3 Biggest Mistakes Doctors Make In Managing Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
This week on ReInvent Healthcare, I talk about the biggest mistakes that doctors make in managing their clients who have type 2 diabetes. I also explore effective strategies that doctors can employ to actively manage and potentially reverse this condition, thus enabling their patients to embrace a life of robust health and optimal living.IN THIS EPISODE:Testing InappropriatelyOne major mistake is inadequate testing for pre-diabetes and early signs of insulin resistance. When blood sugar levels consistently go above 90, it indicates a higher risk of insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease. However, many healthcare professionals only focus on diagnosing diabetes when A1C is at 5.7, which is an average of 119. Testing should include postprandial (after meals) glucose levels and early morning glucose readings, and individuals should be educated about using blood sugar meters or continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) to monitor their levels regularly.Neglecting A1C MonitoringA significant oversight is the lack of routine monitoring of A1C levels, which provide an average blood sugar level over several months. While the medical community often considers an A1C under 5.7 as normal, this overlooks the nuances. A healthier range is suggested to be between 4.8 and 5.2. By monitoring A1C levels and understanding their relation to average glucose levels, individuals at risk can take preventive measures to manage their blood sugar levels.Overlooking Insulin TestingInsulin is a fat storage hormone that should be tested as a part of the annual exam. Many doctors do not routinely test fasting insulin levels, which should ideally be between two and five, or even better, two and three. Elevated fasting insulin levels can contribute to health issues like hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Addressing insulin levels early can help prevent further complications.References: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. Check out our other episodes about Functional Food Facts here. Check out my free guide on Fasting here.
Aug 9, 2023 • 18min
Inflammation and Autoimmune Conditions
This week on ReInvent Healthcare, I talk about the connection between inflammation and autoimmune conditions. I also highlight the role of genetic factors, diagnostic markers as well as dietary and lifestyle interventions to address inflammation and autoimmunity. Make sure to listen to the full episode to learn more.IN THIS EPISODE:Genetic Influence on Inflammation and AutoimmunityWe as functional practitioners should understand the role of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in influencing inflammation and autoimmune conditions. Genetic imbalances, especially in genes related to human histocompatibility leukocyte antigens (HLA), can predispose individuals to autoimmune diseases. It's crucial to identify specific SNPs associated with inflammation and autoimmunity and consider them in personalized treatment plans.Functional Approaches and Biomarkers Comprehensive questioning and testing approaches for assessing inflammation and autoimmune conditions should be utilized. This includes not only patient history but also the measurement of inflammatory markers such as highly sensitive C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and homocysteine. These markers indicate the presence of inflammation and guide lifestyle and dietary strategies. Genetic testing and specialized autoimmune-related tests like gluten sensitivity assessments and fatty acid profiles can provide valuable insights into an individual's condition. Nutritional Interventions and Lifestyle ModificationsFunctional practitioners play a pivotal role in addressing inflammation and autoimmune conditions through nutritional interventions and lifestyle modifications. Recommending an anti-inflammatory diet rich in foods like ginger, turmeric, and omega-3 fatty acids can help manage inflammation. Moreover, identifying and addressing triggers like gluten intolerance and imbalanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratios is essential. Practitioners should also consider individual responses to certain foods, incorporating anti-inflammatory herbs, and promoting gut health to support the immune system and reduce autoimmune symptoms.References: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. Check out our other episodes about Functional Food Facts here. Listen to our theme on Genetics here.
