The Root Cause Medicine Podcast

In this episode of the Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Kate Kresge sits down with Dr. Eric Viegas, a naturopathic doctor and Fullscript’s Medical Product Manager, to pull back the curtain on the world of supplement quality and safety.From raw ingredient sourcing to manufacturing audits, Dr. Viegas explains what CGMP really means, how Fullscript ensures product integrity, and why certifications like NSF and third-party testing matter. You’ll learn how to evaluate your supplements for quality, what common industry terms really mean (or don’t), and what to avoid—like potentially dangerous sports nutrition products and under-tested trendy gummies.Whether you’re a clinician or a supplement-savvy consumer, this episode offers practical insights to help you navigate the supplement landscape with confidence.You’ll hear them discuss:What CGMP certification actually means—and why it mattersThe hidden dangers of poor manufacturing practices and counterfeit productsWhy Fullscript’s catalog is CGMP-certified across all 375+ brandsHow and why supplements like turmeric are tested for purity, potency, and contaminationThe surprising problems with gummies and “pharmaceutical grade” claimsWhich third-party certifications actually mean something (and which don’t)Why the supplement industry is regulated—but not in the way most people assumeHow Fullscript handles recalls, audits, and adverse event reportsWhat every provider and consumer should know before recommending or taking a supplementGuest Bio:Dr. Eric Viegas is a naturopathic doctor and a Medical Product Manager at Fullscript, where he leads initiatives related to supplement quality, safety, and education. Before joining Fullscript, he worked directly with supplement companies to educate providers about clinical applications, product quality, and manufacturing standards. At Fullscript, Dr. Viegas plays a pivotal role in vetting brands, reviewing third-party certifications, and educating practitioners on how to choose safe and effective supplements. His work ensures that thousands of clinicians and their patients have access to a curated catalog of rigorously vetted products.Guest Details:Dr. Eric ViegasRole: Medical Product Manager, FullscriptEducation: Naturopathic Doctor (ND), Canadian College of Naturopathic MedicineFocus: Supplement quality, functional ingredients, CGMP standards, third-party testingWebsite: www.fullscript.comQuality Program: Fullscript Quality StandardsRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineLabs MentionedCGMPNSF and NSF Certified for SportInformed Sport / Informed ChoiceB CorpFriend of the Sea (fish oil)USP methods (United States Pharmacopeia)Prop 65 (California heavy metal limits)Botanical Adulterants Prevention ProgramMicrobial, heavy metal, and pesticide testingTimestamps00:00 – Meet Dr. Eric Viegas and his path to Fullscript02:05 – Why supplement quality matters more than you think05:10 – What CGMP means and why third-party audits matter08:23 – Fullscript’s vetting process and catalog standards13:50 – The turmeric example: testing for identity, potency, and purity18:03 – Stability testing and why overages are sometimes added19:10 – The issue with gummies and water-based supplements22:04 – Clinical safety vs. manufacturing safety24:48 – Contaminants in supplements: what providers should know30:02 – Making it easier to find high-quality products in a big catalog32:30 – Vegan, organic, non-GMO, and sustainability filters34:06 – Friend of the Sea and oxidation testing for fish oils36:11 – Rapid fire: fish oil, collagen hype, and what "pharmaceutical grade" really means43:03 – Should a good diet make supplements unnecessary?46:24 – Final rule of thumb: see your provider and check for CGMP

In this episode of the Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Kate Kresge sits down with functional immunology expert and educator Dr. Samuel Yanuck to explore one of the most overlooked systems in chronic illness: the immune system.With clarity and compassion, Dr. Yanuck breaks down how immune dysregulation can contribute to complex conditions like depression, neuropathy, migraines, chronic fatigue, and even cardiovascular disease. From brain inflammation and mast cell activation to Epstein-Barr virus and mold, Dr. Yanuck offers a new way of thinking about biology—where inflammation isn’t just a symptom, but a system that can be measured, understood, and treated.You’ll here them discuss:Why immunology could be at the root of nearly every chronic illnessThe immune pathways that connect depression, anxiety, brain fog, and fatigueWhat PANS, PANDAS, and autoimmune encephalitis really are—and why they’re often misdiagnosedHow gut, brain, and immune health form a feedback loopThe labs you should run if you suspect chronic immune dysfunctionA framework for evaluating chronic viral infections like EBV and CMVNatural immune modulators: Chinese skullcap, astragalus, quercetin, sulforaphane, and moreWhy personalized immune workups—not protocols—create resultsGuest Bio:Dr. Samuel Yanuck is a functional medicine clinician and expert educator in functional immunology. He is the creator of Cogence Immunology, a comprehensive online training program that has educated over 9,000 clinicians in over 60 countries. His approach blends immunology, clinical experience, and systems thinking to help providers and patients uncover the true drivers of chronic illness. Dr. Yanuck is also the co-founder of the Yanuck Center for Life and Health in North Carolina, where he sees patients and helps clinicians find root-cause solutions to immune dysfunction through mentorship and collaboration. His work is helping reshape how the next generation of practitioners understand inflammation, autoimmunity, and healing.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. Samuel YanuckClinic Website: www.yanuckcenter.comAcademy: www.cogenceimmunology.comLocation: Chapel Hill, North CarolinaClinician Training Program: Cogence Immunology (Free with sponsorship)Specialties: Functional immunology, complex chronic illness, autoimmune encephalitis, PANS/PANDAS, neuroimmune interactionsRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineLabs MentionedCBC with differentialFerritinMyeloperoxidaseEBV panel (VCA IgG, EBNA, Early Antigen)Thyroid panel with antibodiesFood sensitivity testingMold antibodiesVIP (vasoactive intestinal polypeptide)Genetic testing for IL-6Sleep tracking (e.g., Oura Ring)Timestamps00:00 – Meet Dr. Sam Yanuck and how functional immunology became his life’s work01:52 – Case studies: reversing sarcoidosis and managing cancer with immune modulation04:16 – Immunology in every case: from neuropathy to chronic fatigue07:33 – What’s missing in traditional medical education11:08 – How to catch immune dysfunction before it's too late20:18 – What functional immunology reveals when the "right thing" didn’t work21:13 – Understanding PANS, PANDAS, and autoimmune encephalitis27:37 – How depression, anxiety, and inflammation feed each other34:16 – Why casting a wide net with labs matters for root cause medicine36:00 – The labs you’re probably not running (but should)41:16 – The role of genetics, IL-6, IL-4, histamine, and acetylcholine47:21 – How to begin testing for inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune loops55:36 – Chronic viral infections (EBV, CMV, HSV) and how to screen for them59:15 – Understanding IgG patterns and EBV early antigen01:06:12 – What to do about viral burden: nutrition, herbs, and TH1 support01:09:39 – Histamine intolerance, aldehydes, and mast cell overwhelm01:11:49 – How to think like a clinician: iterate, evaluate, evolve01:12:46 – Where to find Dr. Yanuck and how to access Cogence Immunology

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?