The Root Cause Medicine Podcast

Dr. Dale Bredesen, a leading neurologist and bestselling author, opens minds about preventing cognitive decline. He argues that age-related cognitive issues can often be reversed through early detection methods known as 'cognoscopy.' The discussion dives into key factors like inflammation, insulin resistance, and environmental toxins that threaten brain health. Bredesen highlights innovative biomarkers and supplements, as well as the surprising role of the brain microbiome in neurodegeneration. Patient success stories underscore the potential for recovery through tailored interventions.

In this episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Elisa Song—pediatrician, integrative medicine expert, and author of Healthy Kids, Happy Kids. As the founder of Whole Family Wellness, Dr. Song has dedicated her career to empowering parents with science-backed, holistic strategies to raise resilient, thriving children.We explore the foundational role of gut health in childhood development, how added sugars and processed foods harm the microbiome, and why the key to lifelong health starts with the smallest daily habits. Dr. Song also introduces her five pillars of pediatric gut health and highlights the powerful connection between the gut and the brain in kids.You’ll learn:How gut health influences childhood development and diseaseHolistic approaches to managing pediatric health concernsThe five pillars of a healthy gut for childrenHow added sugar and ultra-processed foods impact the brainThe connection between gut health and mental health in kidsThis episode is a must-listen for parents, pediatric professionals, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how to support children's health with compassion, nutrition, and science.Order tests through Rupa Health, the BEST place to order functional medicine lab tests from 30+ labs – https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guideLabs MentionedGenova GI-EffectsStool TestingBlood TestingTiny Health Microbiome AnalysisGuest Details:Dr. Elisa Song’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube, TikTokHealthy Kids, Happy Kids BookWhole Family Wellness WebsiteCEDH USA WebsiteRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's WebsiteRupa Health on LinkedInRupa Health on InstagramRupa Health on Tik TokRupa Health on YouTubeRupa Health Reference GuideRupa Health MagazineTimestamps02:46 - Why Did Dr. Song Wrote Healthy Kids, Happy Kids?04:16 - The Truth About Chronic Diseases in Kids10:20 - 5 Simple Daily Habits to Enhance Your Child’s Health 13:17 - Easy Diet Hacks for a Healthier, Happier Family20:34 - How Ultra-Processed Foods Are Wrecking Our Kids' Brains24:45 - The Ingredients Parents Must Avoid to Keep Their Kids Healthy31:53 - Why Is Sugar Bad for the Microbiome?31:53 - Testing for Gut Health44:24 - Are Probiotics Safe for Children?47:19 - How Gut Health and Natural Remedies Can Enhance Your Child's Immunity

In this episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Allen Sussman—seasoned endocrinologist, educator, and author of Saving the Art of Medicine. With over three decades of experience, Dr. Sussman shares how evidence-based medicine can enhance patient care when it's combined with empathy, open-mindedness, and critical thinking.We explore how research can be misinterpreted, the value of integrating complementary approaches, and how true healing requires more than just following protocols—it requires understanding the person behind the diagnosis.You’ll learn:How evidence-based medicine influences clinical decisionsThe difference between statistical and clinical significanceThe value of listening to patients and tailoring careWhy biases in studies must be considered when applying dataHow alternative and integrative approaches may complement conventional careThis episode is a must-listen for healthcare providers and curious patients alike who want to understand how medical evidence can be both scientific and compassionate.Order tests through Rupa Health, the BEST place to order functional medicine lab tests from 30+ labs - https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guideGuest Details:Dr. Allen Sussman’s WebsiteDr. Allen Sussman on LinkedInSaving the Art of Medicine BookUniversity of Washington - School of Medicine WebsiteRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's WebsiteRupa Health on LinkedInRupa Health on InstagramRupa Health on Tik TokRupa Health on YouTubeRupa Health Reference GuideRupa Health MagazineDr. Carrie Jones’ WebsiteDr. Carrie Jones on LinkedInDr. Carrie Jones on InstagramDr. Carrie Jones on TikTokTimestamps03:38 - Dr. Sussman's journey into integrative medicine05:03 - Embracing evidence-based medicine09:49 - Unveiling research biases17:50 - Statistical versus clinical significance in healthcare21:50 - Unpacking the Women's Health Initiative25:48 - Merging data and human relationships in modern medicine28:54 - How to foster open-mindedness in healthcare30:56 - Balancing compassion and evidence in medical practice34:03 - The secrets to a balanced life36:30 - Where can you find Dr. Sussman?

In this heartfelt farewell episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Kate Kresge and Dr. Carrie Jones sit down to share a major announcement: Dr. Carrie is stepping down as co-host to launch her own podcast, Hello, Hormones.This episode is full of reflection, laughter, and excitement as Dr. Carrie shares why now is the time to follow her calling to educate, empower, and entertain through hormone-focused conversations. With a book coming in 2026, thousands of hormone tests analyzed, and decades of clinical and teaching experience, Dr. Carrie is ready to deliver education that’s practical, hilarious, and deeply needed.You’ll hear them discuss:Why Carrie is pivoting to launch Hello, HormonesThe vision for her new podcast: education, sass, and scienceHow misinformation around hormones (and cancer) persistsWhat women need to know about perimenopause, fertility, and metabolic healthHer certifications and clinical experience across naturopathic endocrinologyHer skincare, castor oil, and longevity tips (because glow matters too!)The myth she wants to bust (hint: it’s about hormone fearmongering)Why “you’ve always had the power” is her guiding truthDr. Carrie Jones is a board-certified naturopathic physician and globally recognized hormone health expert who brings a functional and integrative approach to endocrinology. As the longtime co-host of the Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Jones has educated and inspired thousands through candid, science-backed conversations on women’s health. She holds advanced certifications in naturopathic endocrinology and menopause care, and she previously served as medical director for one of the world's leading functional hormone labs. Dr. Jones has interpreted thousands of hormone panels and trained clinicians worldwide in understanding the nuanced, whole-body impacts of hormonal shifts. Her upcoming podcast, Hello, Hormones, and her 2026 book aim to empower women with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to navigate hormonal changes across every stage of life. Through her clinical work, teaching, and vibrant online presence, Dr. Jones is transforming how we approach hormone health in the modern world.Guest DetailsWebsite: www.drcarriejones.comInstagram: @dr.carriejonesYouTube: Dr. Carrie JonesPodcast: Hello, Hormones (Launching end of May 2025)Rupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineTimestamps00:00 – Dr. Carrie announces her transition01:57 – Why “Hello, Hormones” is the next evolution03:26 – The origin story of the Root Cause Medicine Podcast05:42 – The growing demand for hormone education07:52 – Women’s health misinformation and what needs to change11:46 – Perimenopause, fertility, and life in your 40s13:03 – Dr. Carrie’s training and board certifications18:48 – The vibe of Hello, Hormones: fun, real, practical24:00 – It’s not always menopause: understanding the whole hormone picture28:39 – Lessons from 10,000+ hormone test reviews29:20 – Rapid fire: myths, books, rituals, and beauty hacks33:41 – What’s coming in Dr. Carrie’s upcoming book36:57 – Hair growth tips, lymphatic massages, and castor oil truths38:13 – The idea she wants every woman to understand39:38 – Where to find Dr. Carrie and Hello, Hormones

In this episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. James Greenblatt—psychiatrist, educator, and author—shares his personalized, functional medicine approach to supporting individuals with eating disorders.Drawing from over 30 years of clinical experience, Dr. Greenblatt explains how nutrient deficiencies, malnutrition, and genetic individuality play a major role in mental health conditions like anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. He also discusses the importance of lab testing and how personalized supplementation and nutrition strategies can be used alongside therapy and medication.You’ll learn:Why micronutrient testing is important in eating disorder careHow deficiencies in zinc, omega-3s, and B vitamins may impact brain functionWhat role genetics, celiac disease, and gut health might playHow to use testing to guide individualized support plansWhy the “nutrition by addition” approach can be a game-changer for recoveryThis episode offers a compassionate, science-backed perspective for clinicians, families, and anyone interested in integrative mental health care.Order tests through Rupa Health, the BEST place to order functional medicine lab tests from 30+ labs - https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guideLabs MentionedBlood testingAlkaline phosphatase enzyme testWhite blood cell countHair mineral analysis testKryptopyrrole testingVitamin B12 level testVitamin D level testOrganic acid testPlasma amino acids testTimestamps03:43 - Addressing Malnutrition in Eating Disorder Treatment04:40 - The different types of eating disorders07:03 - Zinc deficiency: symptoms, testing, and supplements15:54 - How omega-3 deficiency could impact eating disorders and body dysmorphia19:09 - Brain differences and adaptive responses in eating disorders22:52 - Dietary changes, genetic vulnerability, and eating disorders26:53 - The role of B vitamins in eating disorder treatment30:31 - Celiac disease and its link to eating disorders34:33 - Treating binge eating disorder37:47 - The importance of amino acids in nutrition and mental health38:36 - An innovative medical model in eating disorder treatment39:58 - Training clinicians in functional approaches for mental health41:13 - Dr. Greenblatt's journey, practice, and books47:06 - Lithium as a nutrient versus prescription medicationShow Notes: (Goes into bCast shownotes)Guest Details:Dr. James Greenblatt’s WebsiteDr. James Greenblatt on LinkedInDr. James Greenblatt on FacebookDr. James Greenblatt on InstagramDr. James Greenblatt on XDr. James Greenblatt’s BooksDr. James Greenblatt’s ArticlesPsychiatry Redefined WebsiteWalden Behavioral Care WebsiteTufts University School of Medicine WebsiteRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's WebsiteRupa Health on LinkedInRupa Health on InstagramRupa Health on Tik TokRupa Health on YouTubeRupa Health Reference GuideRupa Health MagazineDr. Kate Kresge’s WebsiteDr. Kate Kresge on LinkedInDr. Kate Kresge on PodcastDr. Kate Kresge on InstagramDr. Kate Kresge on TwitterDr. Kate Kresge on YoutubeKeywords: (Goes into bCast)Dr. James GreenblattPsychiatry RedefinedEating disordersMalnutritionEating disorder treatmentNutrient deficienciesCeliac diseaseAnorexia nervosa treatmentNutrition and medications in treating eating disordersBrain healthBlog Keywords:Rupa's blogs mentioning Eating Disorders:https://www.rupahealth.com/post/complementary-and-integrative-medicine-approaches-to-eating-disordershttps://www.rupahealth.com/post/top-labs-to-run-bi-annually-on-your-patients-who-suffer-from-binge-eating-disorder 

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?