
The Root Cause Medicine Podcast
In each episode, we’ll meet renowned medical experts, specialists and pioneers who’ve influenced the way certain conditions and diseases are understood and treated. We focus on giving you the information you need to understand the root cause, symptoms and treatments available for specific medical conditions.
Latest episodes

Mar 27, 2025 • 53min
Why You Must Take These 30 Nutrients to Maintain Good Eye Health with Dr. Rudrani Banik: Episode Rerun
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we dive into the role of nutrition in maintaining good eye health with Dr. Rudrani Banik. You’ll hear us discuss:The 30 nutrients that keep your eyes healthyMacular carotenoids for eye protectionWhy you need more than beta-carotene for healthy eyesHow to reduce eye strain and blue light exposureDr. Rudrani Banik is a Board-certified Ophthalmologist and Neuro-Ophthalmologist with fellowship training and expertise in Functional Medicine. Skilled in ophthalmic surgery and Botox, she specializes in treating headaches and migraines. Dr. Banik is also the author of three books on eye health and nutrition: "Beyond Carrots: Best Foods for Eye Health A to Z," "Dr. Rani's Visionary Kitchen: Over 200 Recipes For Healthy Vision," and "Dr. Rani's Plant-Based Visionary Kitchen: Over 130 Plant-Based Recipes for Healthy Vision."Guest Details:Dr. Rudrani Banik’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube, TikTokDr. Rudrani Banik’s BooksIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai WebsiteFollow Rupa Health! 👇Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

Mar 25, 2025 • 37min
How Embodied Practices May Help You Navigate Daily Stress with Dr. Saida Desilets
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Carrie Jones sits down with Dr. Saida Desilets, a thought leader, educator, and pioneer in women's psychosexual health. You'll hear them discuss:Why 40-70% of women struggle with low libidoHow pleasure extends beyond sexuality into everyday lifeThe role of nervous system regulation in women's wellnessSimple daily practices to reclaim sensuality and pleasureWhy beauty and joy are essential nutrients for wellbeingDr. Saida Desilets is a leading authority on embodied psychosexuality and women's wellness. She developed her approach after noticing that traditional sex therapy often didn't produce positive results. Through her work with thousands of women globally, she helps them reconnect with their bodies, reclaim their sensuality, and support women in reconnecting with their bodies and rediscovering a sense of sensuality and pleasure. Dr. Desilets is the author of "Emergence of the Sensual Woman" and offers programs through her platform, Dare Your Desire.Guest Details:Dr. Saida Desilets’ Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, BookEmergence of the Sensual Woman BookAwaken the Sensual Woman ProgramRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineDr. Carrie Jones Website, Instagram, Facebook & YouTubeTimestamps04:33 - Understanding Embodied Psychosexuality06:46 - How Early Influences Shape Our Relationship with Pleasure08:53 - The Full Arc of Female Experience11:21 - Pleasure and Its Connection to Cellular Wellness12:16 - Reclaiming Sensuality Beyond Sexuality18:26 - The Expansive Female Pleasure Anatomy24:53 - Addressing Numbness in Female Bodies27:56 - How Pleasure Practices May Support Healthy Aging33:14 - Resources for Exploring Pleasure Practices36:28 - The Link Between Pleasure and Overall Health

Mar 20, 2025 • 45min
The Organic Acids Profile in Clinical Practice with Cat Simmons and Cass Nelson-Dooley
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Kate Kresge sits down with Cass Nelson-Dooley and Cat Simmons from Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory to explore the clinical applications of organic acids testing. You'll hear us discuss:How urine testing may offer different insights into metabolism compared to blood testsHow urine tests may help identify patterns related to nutrient status without invasive testingExploring how neurotransmitter metabolites may relate to mood and brain healthWhy organic acids testing may be a useful option for children, especially when blood draws are difficultCat Simmons, MS, RD, CDCES is a clinical dietitian with a master's degree in metabolic physiology and integrated exercise science from Colorado State University. With over 15 years of experience in laboratory diagnostics, she has worked across blood, stool, and urine testing platforms. At Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory, she plays a key role in test development and practitioner education, particularly in making complex biochemical concepts accessible and clinically applicable. Her background in sports performance nutrition and metabolism uniquely positions her to help practitioners understand and implement organic acids testing in clinical practice.Cass Nelson-Dooley, MS, studied medicinal plants in the rain forests of Panama, in 2003 as a Fulbright Scholar, and then launched a career in science and natural medicine. She researched the pharmacology of medicinal plants at the University of Georgia and AptoTec, Inc, and then joined the innovators at Metametrix Clinical Laboratory, then Genova Diagnostics. She has over 18 years of experience teaching clinicians about integrative and functional laboratory results. At Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory, she analyzes metabolomics and gut microbiome tests and develops educational tools. Ms. Nelson-Dooley owns Health First Consulting, LLC, a medical writing, patient education, and consulting firm that serves the integrative and functional medicine industry. Ms. Nelson-Dooley is the author of Heal Your Oral Microbiome and has published case studies, book chapters, and journal articles about natural medicine, nutrition, and laboratory testing.Labs Mentioned:Organic Acids TestComprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)GI-MAP Stool TestNeurotransmitter TestingVitamin B6 TestingGuest Details:Cass Nelson-Dooley's Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, BookCat Simmons' LinkedInDiagnostic Solutions Laboratory WebsiteRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineDr. Kate Kresge’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube & TwitterDr. Kate Kresge on PodcastTimestamps03:07 - Experts' Journeys to Lab Testing06:35 - The Simplicity of First Morning Urine Collection08:44 - Metabolism and Energy Support from Urine Markers11:54 - Glutathione and Detoxification Pathways14:32 - How Urine Testing May Reflect Gut Microbiome Imbalances19:52 - Observing Patterns Related to Wellness24:20 - What Plant Compounds Like Quercetin May Suggest About Dietary Intake28:14 - Exploring Cortisol and Cortisone Patterns in Urine Testing32:22 - Neurotransmitter Metabolites and Their Potential Links to Mood and Brain Health39:17 - The Test's Accessibility: Affordable Price and Valuable Insights

Mar 13, 2025 • 43min
Banish Migraines for Good: Neuro-Ophthalmology Tips with Dr. Rudrani Banik: Episode Rerun
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we explore the importance of nutrition and lifestyle changes in managing migraines with Dr. Rudrani Banik. You’ll hear us discuss:Dr. Banik's functional medicine approach to managing migrainesMigraine symptoms and causesHow to identify and eliminate trigger foods for migraine reliefThe gut-brain connection in migraine managementDr. Rudrani Banik is a Board-certified Ophthalmologist and Neuro-Ophthalmologist with fellowship training and expertise in Functional Medicine. Skilled in ophthalmic surgery and Botox, she specializes in treating headaches and migraines. Dr. Banik is also the author of three books on eye health and nutrition: "Beyond Carrots: Best Foods for Eye Health A to Z," "Dr. Rani's Visionary Kitchen: Over 200 Recipes For Healthy Vision," and "Dr. Rani's Plant-Based Visionary Kitchen: Over 130 Plant-Based Recipes for Healthy Vision."Labs MentionedFood sensitivity testingIgG TestIgA TestIgE TestStool AnalysisDry Spot Urine TestGuest Details:Dr. Rudrani Banik’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube, TikTokDr. Rudrani Banik’s BooksIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai WebsiteMigraine SupplementsFollow Rupa Health! 👇Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

Mar 6, 2025 • 42min
The Truth About Seed Oils and How to Avoid Them with Dr. Cate Shanahan: Episode Rerun
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we navigate the impact of seed oils on your health and how to make healthier choices with Dr. Cate Shanahan. You’ll hear us discuss:The "hateful eight" toxic seed oils impacting your healthThe impact of seed oils on mitochondria and hormonesSeed oils and menopausePrioritizing nutritious foods over seed oilsDr. Cate Shanahan is a leading expert in nutrition and human metabolism with more than 20 years of clinical experience and a New York Times bestselling author of "The FatBurn Fix," "Deep Nutrition," and "Food Rules." Her specialty is addressing the root causes of metabolic damage and inflammation, which can lead to issues like autoimmunity, weight gain, diabetes, cancer, and accelerated aging. Alongside Dr. Tim DiFrancesco and NBA legend Gary Vitti, Dr. Cate created the PRO Nutrition program for the LA Lakers and helped develop a partnership between Whole Foods Market and multiple NBA teams.Labs Mentioned:Cholesterol LevelsCholesterol HDLCholesterol LDLOxidized LDLApolipoprotein BCRP (C-Reactive Protein)Oxidized Glutathione LevelsGenova TestAntibody Test for Oxidized CholesterolGuest Details:Dr. Cate Shanahan’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTubeDr. Cate Shanahan’s BooksHachette UK WebsiteFollow Rupa Health! 👇Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

Mar 4, 2025 • 59min
The Story of 3x4 Nutrigenomic Testing and Dr. Yael Joffe
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Yael Joffe joins Dr. Kate Kresge to discuss her remarkable journey from architecture student to nutrigenomics pioneer, driven by a personal loss that left her searching for answers. You’ll hear us discuss:The role of genetic insights in supporting personalized wellness approaches3X4 Genetics innovative approach to genetic testingThe challenges of bringing genetics into clinical practiceHow AI might reshape the fieldDr. Joffe is a pioneering figure in nutrigenomics and the founder of 3X4 Genetics. Originally from South Africa, she began her career studying architecture before pivoting to dietetics following her grandmother's battle with cancer. Driven to understand the intersection of genetics and nutrition more deeply, she pursued a PhD in genetics while working full-time. Throughout her career, Dr. Joffe has been instrumental in developing nutrigenomic testing methodologies, including the Darwin methodology used by 3X4 Genetics to analyze genetic markers for potential insights in personalized wellness. Additionally, Dr. Joffe is the author of The Power Of Genetics.Labs Mentioned:3X4 Genetics TestDetoxification BiomarkersDNA Life TestsGuest Details:Dr. Yael Joffe’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Book3X4 Genetics’ WebsiteManuka Science WebsiteRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineDr. Kate Kresge’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube & TwitterDr. Kate Kresge on PodcastTimestamps03:07 - From Art to Science16:24 - Why PhDs Deserve More Credit33:56 - The Birth of 3X4 Genetics47:21 - AI’s Role in Genetics, Healthcare, and Research53:55 - How 3X4 Chooses the Right Genes01:05:27 - Why Every Clinician Should Consider Genetic Testing01:08:14 - Clinical Application: A Detoxification Case Study01:11:16 - The Future of Genetics

9 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 53min
Beat the Menopause Brain Fog with Dr. Lisa Moscono: Episode Rerun
Dr. Lisa Mosconi, an influential neuroscientist and leader in Alzheimer's prevention, sheds light on the effects of menopause on brain health. She discusses the cognitive challenges and brain fog many women experience during this transition. The conversation emphasizes the significance of sleep disturbances and offers practical strategies for managing menopause symptoms, including lifestyle adjustments and exercise. Dr. Mosconi also advocates for more research on women’s brain health to address these unique concerns.

Feb 25, 2025 • 50min
The Link Between Hormones, Pregnancy, Menopause & Your Teeth with Dr. Leedia Riman
Dr. Leedia Riman is a holistic dentist specializing in women's oral health through various life stages. She discusses the surprising link between hormonal shifts during pregnancy and dental health, revealing that over 65% of women face dental issues during or after pregnancy. Dr. Riman emphasizes the role of hormones in oral dysbiosis and its connection to gut health. With practical oral care strategies, she advocates for tailored approaches to women's dental hygiene and the importance of integrating dental and medical care for optimal wellness.

Feb 21, 2025 • 1h 5min
The Science and Myths of the Paleo Diet with Trevor Connor and Dr. Griffin McMath
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Kate Kresge sits down with Trevor Connor and Dr. Griffin McMath of The Paleo Diet to explore why the Paleo diet is more relevant than ever in today's world of extreme dieting. You'll hear them discuss:How modern food processing has introduced foods our bodies aren't designed to digestHow grains, dairy, and ultra-processed foods may impact overall health and digestionThe health benefits of following a paleo lifestyleHow the paleo diet supports sustainability, budget-friendly eating, and even brain healthThe practical aspect of adopting a paleo dietTrevor is the CEO of The Paleo Diet and Co-Founder of Fast Talk Laboratories. A former professional cyclist who competed until age 53, his journey with the paleo diet began when he was a student at CSU studying under Dr. Loren Cordain, the diet's originator. Initially skeptical, his attempts to disprove the diet's principles led him to become one of its strongest advocates after experiencing significant improvements in his own health and athletic performance.Dr. McMath is the Chief Content Officer at The Paleo Diet, LLC, bringing her background in health advocacy and integrative healthcare to the team. She has a diverse career history having worked in academic integrative oncology partnerships, nonprofits within public and professional health education, and more. She now focuses on making the paleo lifestyle accessible and practical for diverse populations. Additionally, Dr. McMath is a Co-Host of Fast Talk Podcast. Previously, she was an Editor-at-Large at the Institute for Natural Medicine.Labs MentionedZonulin TestingLipopolysaccharides (LPS)TH17Guest Details:Trevor Connor's LinkedIn, XDr. Griffin McMath's Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTokThe Paleo Diet WebsiteFast Talk Laboratories Website, PodcastRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineDr. Kate Kresge’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube & TwitterTimestamps03:48 - Why Is the Paleo Diet More Important Than Ever?10:03 - The Science of the Paleo Diet20:26 - How Certain Compounds in Grains May Affect Digestion and Nutrient Absorption25:16 - How Wheat Consumption May Influence Immune Responses in Some Individuals32:57 - Are Beans Paleo?36:07 - Dairy and Growth Hormones47:03 - What Happens When You Go Paleo?44:52 - Living a Paleo Lifestyle58:40 - Celebrating Small Wins in Dietary Changes01:03:02 - Paleo Diet Resources

Feb 19, 2025 • 50min
Tackling ADHD, Anxiety, and Insomnia with Dr. Romie Mushtaq: Episode Rerun
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we shed light on adult ADHD, stress-success cycle, burnout, anxiety, and insomnia and how they can all be addressed using a root-cause approach with Dr. Romie Mushtaq. You’ll hear us discuss:How stress and anxiety impact adult-onset ADHDThe "busy brain" and how it relates to anxiety, attention issues, and insomniaThe role of chronic stress in neuroinflammation and ADHDHow to manage ADHD symptoms through diet"The Busy Brain Cure" bookDr. Romie is an experienced neurologist and the author of "The Busy Brain Cure." With over 20 years in the field, she also serves as the Chief Wellness Officer at Evolution Hospitality and is the CEO and Founder of brainSHIFT Institute. Dr. Romie combines her extensive experience in neurology, integrative medicine, and mindfulness to offer impactful programs and drive cultural transformation.Labs MentionedFull thyroid panelHigh sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP)Vitamin D3 testingMorning cortisol levelMethylation disorders screeningGuest Details:Dr. Romie Mushtaq’s Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, XThe Busy Brain Cure BookWellness Evolved PodcastGreat Wolf Lodge WebsiteFollow Rupa Health! 👇Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine