
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

Dec 5, 2024 • 31min
The Guide to Preventing Heart Attacks and Improving Your Cardiovascular Health (Part 2): Episode Rerun
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we're back for part 2 of the cardiovascular and metabolic diseases talk with Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj. You’ll hear us discuss:How to improve cardiovascular healthApproaches to reduce inflammatory burden for better cardiovascular healthThe role of oral health in cardiovascular healthPowerlifting and cardiovascular fitnessDr. Sanjay Bhojraj is a cardiologist and functional medicine practitioner, as well as an educator at Rupa Health. He is the founder of Well12.Health, specializing in the reduction and management of cardiometabolic risk. Before this, Dr. Sanjay was an Interventional Cardiologist at Mission Heritage Medical Group.Labs MentionedAdvanced lipid testingHigh-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP)C-reactive protein (CRP) testGuest Details:Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj on LinkedInDr. Sanjay Bhojraj on FacebookDr. Sanjay Bhojraj on InstagramWell12.Health WebsiteFollow Rupa Health! 👇Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

Dec 3, 2024 • 47min
How to Talk About Sexual Health with Dr. Rena Malik
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Carrie Jones sits down with Dr. Rena Malik to tackle the often-taboo subject of sexual health and its crucial role in overall well-being.Why sexual health is still a taboo in modern medicineWhat society gets wrong about sexHow to talk about sexual health with your doctorThe link between erectile dysfunction and heart attacksHow everyday medications could be impacting your libidoDr. Malik is a board-certified urologist with specialized training in Female Pelvic Medicine, Reconstructive Surgery, and Sexual Medicine, along with certification as a Menopause Society Practitioner. Recognized as the American Urological Association's Young Urologist of the Year in 2023, Dr. Malik runs a popular YouTube channel, ranked in the Top 500 Educational Channels, where she is committed to making healthcare education accessible. She is also a sought-after speaker, digital opinion leader, and podcaster.Labs MentionedCholesterol LevelsHemoglobin A1cFasting Blood GlucoseTestosterone Levels for WomenPerimenopausal Hormone TestingCBC (Complete Blood Count)Total TestosteroneFree TestosteroneSex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)Guest Details:Dr. Rena Malik’s Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, PodcastU.S. Department of Veterans Affairs WebsiteFemHealth WebsiteRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineDr. Carrie Jones Website, Instagram, Facebook & TikTokTimestamps03:05 - Why Sexual Health Should Be Your #1 Priority for Overall Wellness04:51 - The Truth About Why Doctors Don't Talk About Sexual Health05:48 - How to Talk About Sexual Health with Your Doctor07:50 - What Society Gets Wrong About Sex13:39 - Is Your Sex Life Normal?17:32 - The Link Between Erectile Dysfunction and Heart Attacks25:49 - Why 40% of Women Experience Low Libido29:54 - Menopause, Libido, and Testosterone39:16 - How Everyday Medications Could Be Impacting Your Libido40:54 - Testosterone and Heart Health44:27 - Why Putting Yourself First in Sexual Health Is Essential45:45 - Where Can You Find Dr. Rena Malik

Nov 28, 2024 • 59min
The Guide to Preventing Heart Attacks and Improving Your Cardiovascular Health (Part 1): Episode Rerun
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we discuss the importance of diet, lifestyle changes, and personalized approaches to improve cardiovascular health with Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj. You’ll hear us discuss:The different types of plaque that can cause heart attacksHow to assess cardiovascular riskPersonalized approaches to cardiovascular healthThe role of diet and lifestyle in cardiovascular healthMisconceptions surrounding cholesterol and triglyceridesDr. Sanjay Bhojraj is a cardiologist and functional medicine practitioner, as well as an educator at Rupa Health. He is the founder of Well12.Health, specializing in the reduction and management of cardiometabolic risk. Before this, Dr. Sanjay was an Interventional Cardiologist at Mission Heritage Medical Group.Labs MentionedAdvanced lipid testingOxidized LDLLDL particle number (LDL-P)Glycated ldlUrine microalbuminElectrolyte testKidney function testsLiver function testsMean corpuscular volume (MCV)Vitamin deficiency testWhite blood cell countBasic lipid profileApolipoprotein BGlycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c)Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)Guest Details:Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj on LinkedInDr. Sanjay Bhojraj on FacebookDr. Sanjay Bhojraj on InstagramWell12.Health WebsiteFollow Rupa Health! 👇Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

Nov 26, 2024 • 55min
How Epigenetics Can Predict Your Future with Hannah Went
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Hannah Went of TruDiagnostic joined us to dive into the groundbreaking TruAge Complete test, which uses epigenetic DNA methylation to reveal your biological age and health risks. You’ll hear us discuss:How epigenetics reveals your aging rate and health riskThe benefits of age testingWhat your DNA report says about agingHow epigenetics clocks predict your health futureAs the Co-Founder and Director of Operations at TruDiagnostic and the Founder of Everything Epigenetics, Hannah brings a deep understanding of how our lifestyle, environment, and DNA regulation impact our health and aging. With a strong background in biology and a passion for translating complex science into accessible insights, Hannah is at the forefront of a revolution in preventive health and personalized medicine.Labs Mentioned:TruAge TestSYMPHONYAgeDunedinPACEC-Reactive Protein (CRP)Fasting GlucoseHemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)Telomere Length TestImmune Cell Subset PanelEPISEEKGuest Details:Hannah Went’s Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, XTruDiagnostic WebsiteTruAge TestEverything Epigenetics Website, PodcastOpscotch 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 PodcastKaitii Bandura on LinkedInTimestamps03:20 - How Epigenetics Reveals Your Aging Rate and Health Risk06:52 - One Million DNA Clues to Your Health11:52 - How Epigenetics Clocks Predict Your Health Future17:00 - Why celebrities are obsessed with the DunedinPACE20:23 - Old vs. New Biological Clocks22:17 - The Link Between DNA and Brain Health27:09 - SYMPHONYAge vs. DunedinPACE30:24 - How a $400 Test and Harvard's Data Are Redefining the Future of Aging34:29 - Hannah's Health Journey36:03 - Is Stress Really Speeding Up Your Aging?37:37 - Are Telomeres Really the Key to Your Biological Age?41:58 - Can Eating Less Make You Younger?46:13 - EPISEEK vs. GRAIL51:31 - The Hidden Benefits of Age Testing53:00 - Where Can You Find Hannah Went?

Nov 21, 2024 • 55min
Hormone Replacement Therapy, Perimenopause and Menopause with Dr. Deb Matthew: Episode Rerun
In today's episode with Dr. Deb Matthew, you’ll hear us take a deep dive into:What HRT and BHRT actually are, and what they doHow Practitioners can assess and diagnose your hormone levelsWhy Breast Cancer isn’t the giant risk we think it isHow taking HRT can change depending on whether you have a uterusTaking HRT after you’ve beaten breast cancerOnce upon a time, we were told that HRT was the best thing in the world. Then, in 2002, the Women’s Health Initiative Study was published and said that HRT led to more cases of Breast Cancer. Since then, practitioners and women have been in an uphill battle to demyth HRT and increase accessibility to appropriate hormonal care. In this episode, Dr. Deb Matthew helps us break these myths and gives us the truth. Dr. Matthew is known in the US as “The Happy Hormones Doctor”, and you may have seen her share her expertise on TV and radio shows. She’s renowned as a leader in her field of medicine, sitting on many American medical boards and presenting her research internationally. Interventions Mentioned:HRT - Hormone Replacement TherapyBHRT - Bioidentical Hormone Replacement TherapyEstrogen CreamsEstrogen Trophies (Lozenges)Hormone PelletsEstradiol Patch Guest Details:Dr. Deb Matthew on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter/ XDr Deb Matthew’s websiteSignature wellness websiteBHRT Training Academy websiteBHRT Practice Boost on Facebook - only for Practitioners Follow Rupa Health! 👇Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

Nov 19, 2024 • 49min
How the Gut-Brain Axis Impacts Your Mental Health with Rachel Scheer
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Carrie Jones sits down with Rachel Scheer to explore the fascinating connection between the gut-brain axis and nervous system regulation. You'll hear them discuss:How IBS, anxiety, and depression are linked to your gutWhy high achievers are more prone to gut issuesHow trauma and stress are wrecking your gut healthBreathing tricks to calm your nervous systemFunctional approaches to gut dysfunction and mental healthRachel is the Founder and CEO of Rachel Scheer Nutrition, with vast experience in the health, wellness, and fitness industry. She is skilled in nutrition counseling, public speaking, and health education. Additionally, Rachel is a certified Functional Medicine Nutritionist, fitness model, author of Root Cause: A Complete Guide to Functional Nutrition for Coaches, and host of the Sheer Madness Podcast.Labs MentionedThe DUTCH TestHeart Rate Variability (HRV)Microbiome PanelAdrenal PanelInflammation PanelGuest Details:Rachel Scheer’s Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, BookSheer Madness PodcastRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineDr. Carrie Jones Website, Instagram, Facebook & TikTokTimestamps03:22 - Why Stress Messes with Your Stomach08:16 - How IBS, Anxiety, and Depression Are Linked to Your Gut12:52 - Why High Achievers Should Track Their HRV Daily16:22 - Is Your Drive to Success Hurting Your Gut Health?23:29 - How Trauma and Stress Are Wrecking Your Gut Health29:32 - Simple Breathing Tricks to Calm Your Nervous System34:49 - The First Step to Start Healing Your Gut39:35 - Why Your Phone Is Sabotaging Your Mental Clarity41:53 - How to Stay Grounded Despite a Busy Life48:04 - Where Can You Find Rachel Scheer?

Nov 14, 2024 • 49min
Secrets to Reversing Your Biological Age: Younger You Protocol with Kara Fitgerald: Episode Rerun
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we explore the science of reverse biological aging and Dr. Kara Fitzgerald's Younger You protocol to help you estimate and reverse your biological age. You’ll hear us discuss:How to estimate your biological ageHow to reverse biological age through diet and lifestyleThe role of DNA methylation and the pace of agingFoods that support methylation and DNA healthThe Younger You programDr. Fitzgerald is a well-known figure in the field of functional medicine, actively engaged in clinical research on functional longevity and epigenetics through diet and lifestyle intervention. Her groundbreaking book, "Younger You: Reduce Your Bio Age and Live Longer, Better," encapsulates her research findings and tools for reversing biological age. She also serves as a faculty at the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM), authored numerous scientific papers and textbooks, lectures internationally, and hosts the podcast "New Frontiers in Functional Medicine." Dr. Fitzgerald holds a doctorate in naturopathic medicine from the National University of Natural Medicine in Oregon.Labs Mentioned:DNA methylation testComplete blood count panel (CBC)White blood cell countsAlkaline phosphatase (ALP) testSerum chemistry panelsC-reactive protein (CRP) testDHEA testA1C testGuest Details:Dr. Kara Fitzgerald’s WebsiteDr. Kara Fitzgerald on LinkedInDr. Kara Fitzgerald on FacebookDr. Kara Fitzgerald on InstagramDr. Kara Fitzgerald on YouTubeDr. Kara Fitzgerald on XThe Younger You BookNew Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Longevity & Epigenetics PodcastFollow Rupa Health! 👇Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

Nov 12, 2024 • 1h 8min
Combat Endometriosis with Natural Solutions with Dr. Alexis Gonzales and Kaitii Bandura
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we explore the nuances of endometriosis and fertility with Dr. Alexis Gonzales. You’ll hear us discuss:How to diagnose endometriosisSurprising symptoms of endometriosisNatural solutions for endometriosisEssential lab tests for assessing your healthLifestyle changes to tackle endometriosisDr. Alexis Gonzales is a renowned functional and naturopathic medicine expert specializing in endometriosis and fertility. With a rich educational background from Bastyr University, Johns Hopkins University, and Saint Mary’s College of California, Dr. Gonzales brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. She is also a Clinical Content Developer at the Institute for Functional Medicine and a passionate advocate for personalized, holistic care.Kaitii Bandura is a teammate at Rupa Health (a Fullscript Company), friend of Dr. Kate, and an endometriosis patient. Kaitii is passionate about helping to decrease the length of time to diagnosis for endometriosis by spreading awareness and helping patients learn to better advocate for themselves.Labs Mentioned:Transvaginal UltrasoundReceptivaDxGut Health TestsDetox Pathways TestingHormone LevelsEstrogen MetabolismInflammatory MarkersImmune Health TestingDUTCH TestsComprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)Stool TestsMetabolite TestingNutrient TestingEstrogen Metabolite TestingInsulin TestingC-Reactive Protein (CRP)Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)CA125 TestingGuest Details:Dr. Alexis Gonzales’ Practice, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTokThe Institute for Functional Medicine 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 PodcastKaitii Bandura on LinkedInResources for Education and Support: Endo Girls Blog, InstagramSomedays' Website, InstagramNancy’s Nook EndometriosisThe Endometriosis SummitTimestamps03:52 - Signs You Could Have Endometriosis07:29 - Surprising Symptoms of Endometriosis10:09 - Why It Takes 7-12 Years to Diagnose for Endometriosis14:32 - Finding a Doctor Who Truly Listens17:35 - What Your Doctor Should Be Telling You About Endometriosis24:37 - Natural Solutions for Endometriosis35:18 - Essential Lab Tests for Assessing Your Health43:12 - Lifestyle Changes to Tackle Endometriosis48:31 - How Much Protein Do You Really Need?53:10 - Essential Supplements for Managing Endometriosis01:00:59 - Powerful Words for Anyone Facing Endometriosis01:03:36 - Essential Resources and Communities for Endometriosis

Nov 7, 2024 • 39min
Energy, Hormones, and Health: A Deep Dive into Mitochondrial Function with Dr. Molly Maloof: Episode Rerun
In today's episode with Dr. Molly Maloof, you’ll hear us take a deep dive into:Dr Maloof’s book “The Spark Factor” The basics of mitochondria and how they help your bodyThe necessity of active livingHow Mitochondria can help during PerimenopauseWhy we all need a healthier relationship with foodIf you’ve ever had questions about Mitochondria, you’re in the right place! Join Dr. Carrie Jones and Dr. Molly Maloof for an exciting conversation about Mitochondria and its wide-reaching impact on our mental state and the health of our bodies. Dr. Maloof talks us through her insights of how lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, can have an effect on our Mitochondria - and how those effects can then, in turn, affect us. The conversation also covers the Mitochondrial impact on perimenopause and fitness as female bodies get older, and how blood sugar levels also play a part. Labs MentionedBlood Sugar MonitorGuest Details:Dr. Molly Maloof Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter/ X “The Spark Factor” Book onlineLiving Adamo WebsiteFollow Rupa Health! 👇Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

Nov 5, 2024 • 53min
Supercharge Your Metabolism During Perimenopause with Dr. Lara Briden
In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Carrie Jones sits down with Dr. Lara Briden to dive into the vital connection between metabolism, metabolic flexibility, and women's health during the perimenopausal transition. You'll hear them discuss:Metabolic flexibility versus metabolic inflexibilityReasons your metabolic health is decliningHow to test your metabolismThe science behind perimenopause weight gainNutritional approaches to support your metabolic health5 nutrients your metabolism needsPractical strategies for managing insulin resistanceDr. Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor, author, and women's health activist with over 25 years of experience in women's health. She has a strong background in science, sits on several advisory boards, and is the lead author of a couple of peer-reviewed papers about polycystic ovary syndrome. Her books, the Period Repair Manual, Hormone Repair Manual, and Metabolism Repair for Women, are practical guides to improving health through nutrition, supplements, and body-identical hormones.Labs MentionedFasting Insulin TestBlood Sugar TestHbA1c TestAlanine Aminotransferase (ALT) TestTriglycerides TestingCholesterol TestingThyroid TestingAnti-TPOGuest Details:Dr. Lara Briden’s Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Books, PodcastRupa Health Details:Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeRupa Health Reference Guide & MagazineDr. Carrie Jones Website, Instagram, Facebook & TikTokTimestamps02:00 - Understanding Metabolic Flexibility07:11 - Why Is Your Metabolism Failing?10:00 - Can You Test Your Metabolism?18:59 - The Simple Metric That Beats BMI for Tracking Health22:51 - What Happens to Women’s Bodies in Their 40s25:28 - The Link Between PCOS and Perimenopause30:03 - How to Eat Your Way Out of Insulin Resistance35:48 - End Your Sugar Cravings40:00 - 5 Nutrients Your Metabolism Needs45:06 - Reversing Insulin Resistance50:26 - Where Can You Find Dr. Lara Briden?