The Root Cause Medicine Podcast

In this episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Anthony Crifase is joined by Brandy Zachary, DC, IFMCP, Clinical Director at Body Love Cafe. They discuss the root cause of food sensitivities, the difference between food sensitivities and allergies and the future of food sensitivity treatment.Learn more about Brandy Zachary:Brandy Zachary on LinkedInBody Love Cafe WebsiteRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's WebsiteRupa Health on LinkedInRupa Health on FacebookRupa Health on InstagramRupa Health on Tik TokRupa Health on YouTubeRupa Health  Reference Guide Dr. Carrie Jones on LinkedInDr. Carrie Jones on InstagramDr. Carrie Jones on  TikTokIf you enjoyed this episode, then please either:Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple PodcastFollow on Spotify

In this episode of the Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Carrie Jones sits down with seasoned compounding pharmacist Sara Hover, RPh, to demystify the world of personalized medications. They dig into how compounding pharmacies offer tailored solutions for hormone therapy, acne, hair loss, weight loss, and more—and why this approach can be life-changing for patients who’ve hit dead ends with conventional medicine.Sarah shares eye-opening stories, from hormone creams and sublingual weight loss medications to pediatric popsicles and custom thyroid solutions, showing just how flexible and powerful compounding can be.What You’ll LearnWhat compounding pharmacies actually do—and why it mattersWhy the finished compounded meds aren’t FDA-approved (and why that’s okay)How bioidentical hormone therapy transforms women's healthSolutions for allergies to common fillers like red dye or peanut oilFun and effective delivery forms: lozenges, topical creams, even popsiclesHair loss, acne, eczema, and anti-aging compounding optionsThe surprising science behind sublingual GLP-1s for weight lossHow to find (or help your doctor become) a compound-friendly providerSara Hover, RPh is a compounding pharmacist with 30 years of experience and a specialty in hormone replacement therapy. She serves as a lead educator at PCCA, where she trains pharmacists and providers on the latest in compounding innovations. Sarah is passionate about personalized, patient-centered care—and believes no one should be told they're "crazy" when a tailored medication might be the real solution.Order tests through Rupa Health, the BEST place to order functional medicine lab tests from 30+ labs - https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guideLabs & Tests MentionedThyroid labs (TSH, T4, T3)Hormone panels (estradiol, progesterone, testosterone)Adrenal function testingSaliva testing (for topical hormone absorption validation)Timestamps00:00 – Intro to compounding01:00 – Sarah’s background and spark for pharmacy03:00 – What compounding offers that retail doesn’t06:00 – FDA approval vs. compounding safety09:00 – Why hormone therapy changes lives11:00 – Creative formulations: creams, popsicles, transdermals14:00 – Red dye, peanut oil, and other allergy issues17:00 – Custom thyroid medication and adrenal support20:00 – Commercial drug variance and its risks23:00 – Acne, eczema, and aging skin treatments27:00 – Hair loss solutions and common ingredients30:00 – Weight loss and sublingual GLP-1s35:00 – Insurance coverage realities38:00 – How to find a compound-friendly provider40:00 – Final message: Women, advocate for your hormones

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we navigate the importance of brain health and preventing cognitive decline with Louisa Nicola. You’ll hear us discuss:How women in their 30s and 40s can prevent Alzheimer'sWhy exercise is the best preventive tool against Alzheimer's diseaseThe surprising benefits of resistance training for your brain healthNutrition insights for enhancing brain healthWhy the best thing for a healthy aging brain is social connectionsLouisa is a neurophysiologist and human performance coach. She is the Founder of Neuro Athletics, a consulting firm that works with top athletes worldwide, leveraging EEG scans, lab tests, and cognitive assessments to optimize performance. Louisa's insights delve deep into the minds of elite NBA and MLB stars. Additionally, she serves on the board of Momentous, Tonal, and Klora.Labs MentionedApoE4 TestingGuest Details:Louisa Nicola’s LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, X, Facebook, TikTokNeuro Athletics WebsiteThe Neuro Experience PodcastRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineDr. Carrie Jones’ Website, LinkedIn, Instagram & TikTokTimestamps03:38 - How Women in Their 30s and 40s Can Prevent Alzheimer's11:47 - Is This the Secret to Preventing Alzheimer’s?18:21 - The Surprising Benefits of Resistance Training19:52 - The Sleeping Habits You Need for Peak Performance27:25 - Why Blue Light Glasses and Red Lights Won't Fix Your Sleep Issues30:46 - Nutrition Insights for Enhancing Brain Health37:07 - The Benefits of Urolithin A, B Vitamins, and Saunas39:33 - The Ultimate Life Hack for a Healthy Brain41:02 - Where Can You Find Louisa Nicola?

In today’s episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Kate Kresge sits down with Dr. Ellen Vora to discuss a revolutionary framework for understanding anxiety—not as a disorder, but as a message from the body or soul.They explore the difference between false anxiety, which stems from physiological imbalances like blood sugar crashes, sleep disruption, and inflammation, and true anxiety, which often points to deeper emotional or existential truths.You’ll hear them discuss:Why anxiety is the beginning of an inquiry—not a final diagnosisThe difference between “false” (body-based) and “true” (purpose-driven) anxietyHow nutrient deficiencies and gut imbalances can mimic psychiatric symptomsThe surprising mental health effects of hormonal birth controlHow to use food as medicine to support neurotransmitter balance and calmThe dangers of benzodiazepines—and how to taper with the help of functional medicineThe power of psychobiotics, circadian rhythm, and inflammation reductionWhy GABA, inositol, and phosphatidylcholine are key to recoveryHow to approach anxiety with both compassion and curiosityDr. Ellen Vora is a holistic, board-certified psychiatrist, acupuncturist, and yoga teacher who takes a functional medicine approach to mental health. She is the author of the bestselling book The Anatomy of Anxiety, where she introduces a powerful framework that distinguishes between false and true anxiety. Her work empowers individuals to address anxiety at the root—biochemical, hormonal, inflammatory, or psychospiritual—so they can heal from the inside out. Through her clinical work, speaking, and writing, Dr. Vora is redefining what it means to support mental wellness in a modern world.Guest Details:Website: ellenvora.com Instagram: @ellenvoramd Book: The Anatomy of Anxiety – Available in paperback, Kindle, and AudibleRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineDr. Carrie Jones Website, Instagram, Facebook & YouTubeLabs MentionedHemoglobin A1CThyroid MarkersMicrobiome Lab TestingSleep StudiesPhosphatidylcholineInositolGABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)Timestamps00:00 – Introducing Dr. Ellen Vora and The Anatomy of Anxiety01:03 – Anxiety as the beginning of inquiry, not the end03:56 – False vs. true anxiety: A revolutionary framework07:10 – How physical imbalance creates false anxiety20:27 – Blood sugar imbalances and simple interventions28:18 – Nutritional psychiatry and real food as medicine36:41 – Gluten, dairy, and exorphins: food as a drug44:55 – Balancing intuitive eating with food as a root cause50:44 – Kate’s personal story: misdiagnosed celiac disease59:52 – Functional medicine offers hope where meds fall short1:00:30 – The role of sleep, light, and circadian rhythm1:04:10 – Inflammation and the cytokine hypothesis of depression1:12:01 – Psychobiotics and building GABA from the gut1:15:22 – Benzodiazepines, alcohol, and GABA withdrawal1:21:30 – Supplements, detox, and tapering benzos1:26:36 – Preview of Part 2: True anxiety1:27:26 – Functional lab testing for psychiatry1:37:54 – How to find a root-cause trained practitioner1:43:15 – Where to find Dr. Vora and her book

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we explore various topics related to immune resilience and reducing sickness in children with Dr. Chris Magryta. You’ll hear us discuss:Why kids are getting sick so oftenHow to boost immune resilience in childrenThe superfoods your child needsTips for limiting screen time and improving sleep in childrenNurturing a healthy gut and brain development in childrenAddressing allergies and intolerances in childrenEffective parenting approaches and resources for nurturing children's healthDr. Chris has been practicing medicine in North Carolina for 24 years, viewing each child as a catalyst for improving human health. He is an Integrative Pediatrician at Salisbury Pediatric Associates and the Medical Director of Standard Process. Additionally, Dr. Chris serves as the Chairman of Children First of North Carolina and hosts Dr. M’s Women and Children First podcast, where he interviews experts on maternal and child health, focusing on upstream anthropology and root cause analysis for change.Labs MentionedRed Blood Cell (RBC) Mineral TestsComplete blood count (CBC)Guest Details:Dr. Chris Magryta’s LinkedIn, FacebookSalisbury Pediatric WebsiteStandard Process WebsiteChildren First of North Carolina WebsiteDr. M's Women and Children First Podcast PodcastLinus Pauling Institute WebsiteNourish Your Tribe BookRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineDr. Kate Kresge’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube & TwitterDr. Kate Kresge on PodcastTimestamps03:48 - Why Kids Are Getting Sick So Often11:08 - Get Your Kids to Sleep Like Angels14:09 - Win the Battle Against Your Kids' Nighttime Phone Addiction17:59 - The Superfoods Your Child Needs20:06 - Nutrition Secrets Every Parent Needs to Know25:14 - The Alarming Reality of Measles and Why Vitamin A Might Not Be the Solution Parents Think32:10 - 5 Steps Every Pregnant Mom Needs to Know36:54 - Preventing Choking in Babies39:30 - How Over-Cleaning and Modern Birth Practices Trigger Asthma44:07 - How Childhood Asthma Might Be Linked to Baby Colic49:22 - Treating ADHD Root Causes Without Medication53:40 - The Key to Raising Resilient Kids in a Screen-Obsessed World01:00:23 - Where Can You Find Dr. Chris Magryta?

Ben Azadi, founder of Keto Kamp and author, dives into the concept of metabolic freedom and the staggering fact that 93% of Americans are metabolically unhealthy. He distinguishes between sugar and fat burning, discussing how traditional calorie-counting fails. Azadi explains the harmful effects of obesogens and advocates for fasting and ketosis as pathways to better health. He emphasizes the importance of mindset and gratitude in achieving sustainable changes, providing practical steps to shift from sugar to fat burning in just a week.

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we discuss the powerful connection between nutrition and mental health with Dr. Uma Naidoo. You’ll hear us dive into:The impact of food on mental healthHow to manage anxiety through nutrition and lifestyleUsing food as medicine for mental well-beingWhat is metabolic psychiatry?How your diet controls your brain and sleepDr. Uma is a Harvard-trained psychiatrist, professional chef, nutrition specialist, author, and MasterClass instructor. She is also the Founder and Director of the Nutritional Psychiatry Service at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). Known as Harvard's Mood Food Expert, Dr. Uma is a national best-selling author of “This Is Your Brain On Food” and “Calm Your Mind with Food.”Labs MentionedMetabolic PanelsEndocrine HormonesVitamin DComplete Blood CountIron LevelsThyroid Function TestsFasting Lipid PanelsFasting Triglyceride LevelsGuest Details:Dr. Uma Naidoo’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTokDr. Uma Naidoo’s BooksDr. Uma Naidoo’s CourseRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineDr. Kate Kresge’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube & TwitterDr. Kate Kresge on PodcastTimestamps03:15 - Dr. Uma’s Inspiring Journey to Mental Wellness07:33 - How Food Choices Can Transform Mental Health10:43 - How Your Microbiome Could Be the Key to Addressing Anxiety15:09 - Food Choices to Calm Your Mind and Ease Anxiety22:26 - The Secret to Perfect Hydration28:00 - The Connection Between Leptin, Anxiety, and Your Diet35:58 - Boost Your Mood with Non-Food Nutrient Sources40:03 - How Your Diet Controls Your Brain and Sleep45:38 - The Role of Magnesium and Potassium for Anxiety Relief50:15 - Essential Lab Tests You Need for Root Cause Diagnosis55:00 - When Your Body Is Screaming for Help58:52 - Acknowledge the Real Connection Between Food and Mood

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Kate Kresge sits down with Dr. Devan Szczepanski to explore her revolutionary triangular approach to functional medicine that has transformed thousands of lives. You'll hear us discuss:How the Triangle Method combines genomics, metabolic testing, and gut analysisWhy genomic testing provides crucial personalized insights for treatmentThe practical applications of reformative medicine in clinical settingsHow to prioritize interventions based on comprehensive testingDr. Szczepanski is a board-certified family medicine physician and founder of Reformative Medicine, where she teaches clinicians her Triangle Method of gastrointestinal, genomic and metabolic testing to help patients uncover the root causes of their symptoms. After leaving corporate medicine to start her own practice, she developed a unique system combining genomics, metabolic testing, and gut analysis that aims to deliver personalized care designed to support wellness through measurable insights. Dr. Szczepanski now operates three clinics across Florida and Louisiana and has developed a training program to share her effective approach with other practitioners.Labs Mentioned:DNA Life Testing PanelsGI-MAPComprehensive Metabolic TestingThyroid Panel with AntibodiesHomocysteine TestingHormone PanelDHEA and Cortisol TestingFasting InsulinEBV TestingGuest DetailsDr. Devan Szczepanski’s Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, PodcastNuWell Medicine WebsiteFree Practitioner Sign-Up HereRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineDr. Kate Kresge’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube & TwitterDr. Kate Kresge on Podcast Timestamps04:39 - Dr. Szczepanski's Journey from Neuropsychology to Medicine11:19 - Educational Background and Influences15:34 - Building a Team-Based Clinical Approach19:44 - The Evolution of Reformative Medicine27:54 - Understanding Genomics vs. Epigenetics34:15 - The Comprehensive Metabolic Assessment Approach42:34 - How Gut Testing Completes the Triangle Method48:21 - Measuring Outcomes and Tracking Patient Results50:01 - What is Reformative Medicine?53:13 - Dr. Szczepanski's Upcoming Book and Training Programs54:23 - Where to Find Dr. Devan Szczepanski 

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we explore the often-overlooked importance of emotional health during the menopause transition with Dr. Paul Conti. You’ll hear us discuss:How trauma often leads to shame and self-blameThe emotional and psychological changes during menopauseBuilding resilience through introspection and curiosityThe stigma surrounding mental health issuesThe importance of seeking professional support and external feedbackDr. Paul M. Conti, a Stanford University School of Medicine graduate, combines extensive clinical expertise with a holistic approach to psychiatry. With training from Stanford and Harvard, where he served as Chief Resident, Dr. Conti specializes in treating mental illness and life stressors, recognizing the pervasive impact of trauma on individuals and communities. Beyond clinical practice, he offers consulting services in personal, business, and legal contexts. Dr. Conti is also acclaimed for his book, "Trauma: The Invisible Epidemic," which distills his insights on healing from trauma, aiming to educate and empower a broader audience.Guest Details:Dr. Paul Conti’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, FacebookDr. Paul Conti’s Books Follow Rupa Health! 👇Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Carrie Jones welcomes Dr. Caitlin Czezowski to explore the lymphatic system's complex role and its crucial connections to detoxification, hormone balance, and overall wellness.What You’ll Learn:How the lymphatic system functions as the body's "sewage system"Why lifestyle factors can impair lymphatic functionThe "Specific Seven" lymph node protocol for daily drainageHow hormones interact with the lymphatic system and impact fertilityWhy tongue ties and breathing patterns can significantly affect lymphatic drainage and overall healthThe science behind lymphatic drainage techniquesDr. Caitlin Czezowski is known for her focus on lymphatic health and support for the body’s natural detoxification pathways. As the founder of Doc Talks Detox, she has developed practical protocols designed to help support healthy lymphatic flow, including her signature "Specific Seven" lymph node-clearing technique. Dr. Czezowski blends traditional medical training with accessible strategies aimed at helping individuals support their lymphatic system and overall wellness. Her work helps translate complex health concepts into actionable steps, making the topic of lymphatic health more approachable for a broad audience.Labs MentionedRed Blood Cell CountLDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase)Guest Details:Dr. Caitlin Czezowski’s Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTokDoc Talks Detox WebsiteRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineDr. Carrie Jones Website, Instagram, Facebook & YouTube Timestamps00:13 - Understanding Your Lymphatic System03:37 - Hidden Roles of Lymphatics06:17 - How Lymph Nodes Act Like Airport Security08:52 - Fat Cells, Weight Loss, and Leaky Lymph10:32 - The Glymphatic System14:22 - Lymph Drainage 10121:21 - Lifestyle Habits Hurting Your Lymph Flow25:38 - Tongue Ties and Lymph Congestion30:18 - Improve Lymph Drainage and Facial Muscle Tone31:44 - Estrogen, Progesterone, and Your Lymphatic Health36:49 - Signs of Lymphatic Congestion41:02 - The "Specific Seven" Lymph Nodes to Clear Daily47:54 - Fun, Effective Lymphatic Health50:11 - Do You Really Need an Expensive Rebounder?53:20 - Where to Find Dr. Caitlin Czezowski?