The Funk'tional Nutrition Podcast

Ep | 356Feeling off but your doctor says your labs are “normal”? This episode breaks down the often-overlooked world of thyroid dysfunction and why so many people (especially women!) are walking around with symptoms they can’t explain. Erin dives deep into what’s really going on with your thyroid, the symptoms that often get brushed off, and why the conventional model of care may not be giving you the full picture.From stress and nutrient depletion to liver health, toxins, and hormone imbalances, Erin explains the root causes that could be holding your thyroid hostage and what to do about it. You’ll learn what a full thyroid panel should include, why postpartum women are particularly vulnerable, and how a whole-body, functional approach (including energy medicine) is often the missing piece in healing.In This Episode:(01:20) Why there is so much misinformation right now around female hormones(05:55) The most common symptoms of hypothyroidism (15:20) T3 is the key in thyroid health and it often goes untested!(22:08) How other hormones impact thyroid health and the importance of a comprehensive hormone analysis(31:25) The energy anatomy of the thyroid and the throat chakra connectionFOR OUR FULL LIST OF LINKS + RESOURCES, HEAD TO: https://www.thefunktionalnutritionist.com/podcast/356-thyroid-healthCheck out The Funk’tional Nutritionist: Website | InstagramErin’s FREE Hormone Food Guide

If you've ever wondered how to truly support your hormones without falling into diet culture traps, Erin is breaking down the three “big boulders” of hormone-supportive nutrition: eating enough food, prioritizing protein, and adding variety to your meals. She explains why a caloric deficit isn’t always the answer (especially for women!) and how being well-fed sends powerful safety signals to the body that support ovulation, progesterone production, and overall hormonal balance.You’ll also learn why balanced blood sugar is non-negotiable, how modern weight loss trends like Ozempic and other GLP-1 peptides could have unintended consequences, and how strength training can buffer against hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause. Plus, she shares her free downloadable Hormone Food Guide to help you put it all into practice.In This Episode:(01:35) Why hormones are often the effect, rather than the root cause of health issues(02:25) How food influences blood sugar, liver health, and inflammation(05:02) Erin introduces "Your Hormone Revival," a program designed to simplify hormone health and address root causes with a holistic approach(14:50) The most crucial nutrients for hormonal balance, including B vitamins, vitamin C, and magnesium(24:25) How consuming enough food and maintaining balanced meals signals safety to your body(25:48) The long-term health consequences women face, and the rise of eating disorders from GLP1 usageFOR OUR FULL LIST OF LINKS + RESOURCES, HEAD TO: https://www.thefunktionalnutritionist.com/podcast/355-hormone-healthGet the FREE Hormone Balance Food Guide Check out The Funk’tional Nutritionist: Website | Instagram

If you’ve ever felt frustrated or confused about your fertility journey, you’re not alone. In this episode, Erin is talking to our lead practitioner Rachel Heintz, MS, RDN, to break down the key factors that influence female fertility beyond just age and ovulation. They dives into how stress, gut health, and nutrient deficiencies can all play a role, and what you can do to optimize your chances of conception naturally.You’ll also learn the biggest misconceptions about fertility, how to recognize the signs your body is sending, and practical strategies to support hormone balance. Whether you’re actively trying to conceive or just want to better understand your reproductive health, this episode is packed with insights.In This Episode:(04:52) The importance of hormones in female fertility(08:11) How stress and lack of ovulation can affect the menstrual cycle(09:15) The role of melatonin as a powerful antioxidant that protects egg cells(16:07) The impact of gut health on hormonal balance and fertility(24:02) Rachel shares her favorite supplements for supporting mitochondrial health, like CoQ10 and NAC(29:42) A comprehensive starting point for foundational labs and lifestyle changes to support your fertility journeyFOR OUR FULL LIST OF LINKS + RESOURCES, HEAD TO: https://www.thefunktionalnutritionist.com/podcast/354-fertility-journeyCheck out The Funk’tional Nutritionist: Website | Instagram

If you've ever felt imposter syndrome or self-doubt creeping in before taking a big leap, you're not alone. In this episode, Erin shares her real-time experience of navigating fear and uncertainty before leading a major training. She breaks down how high achievers—whether entrepreneurs, practitioners, or anyone pushing their limits—can reframe fear as a sign of growth rather than a setback. You'll learn how to identify limiting beliefs, recognize emotional triggers, and take action despite self-doubt. Plus, Erin shares the #1 subconscious growth limiter that most people don’t even realize is holding them back.This episode also includes insights from a live call with FNA students and grads, diving deep into the mindset shifts needed to build confidence, make bold decisions, and grow both personally and professionally. If you've ever asked yourself, Can I really do this?, Erin gives you the tools and real-life examples to prove that you can—and why betting on yourself is the key to success.In This Episode:(07:14) Imposter Syndrome Among FNA Applicants(12:35) Overcoming Imposter Syndrome(17:40) Embracing Challenges in New Ventures(20:01) Yin and Yang: Emotional vs. Logical(25:47) Embracing Triggers for Growth(28:39) Handling Growth ChallengesFOR OUR FULL LIST OF LINKS + RESOURCES, HEAD TO: https://www.thefunktionalnutritionist.com/podcast/353-triggers-growth-and-confidenceCheck out The Funk’tional Nutritionist: Website | Instagram

If you’ve ever struggled with imposter syndrome, felt like you’re not qualified, or doubted whether you’re truly “ready” for the next step in your career or personal growth, this episode is for you.Here’s the truth: Feeling like an imposter is often a sign of growth—not failure.In this episode, I break down:What imposter syndrome is and why it happens (especially to high-achievers).Why imposter syndrome never fully goes away—and how to manage it when it shows up.How your brain is wired for survival, not success, and why this creates self-doubt.A simple mindset shift to stop fear from holding you back.A powerful journaling exercise (from Existential Kink by Carolyn Elliott, PhD) to identify and overcome subconscious fears.How taking action helps rewire your brain to build confidence and resilience.If you’ve ever felt stuck in self-doubt, you’re not alone. Most high-achievers, entrepreneurs, and practitioners experience imposter syndrome at some point. In fact, most of the practitioners who have graduated from The Funk’tional Nutrition Academy (FNA) started in that exact place. The good news? You can train your mind to work for you, not against you.🎧 Tune in now to learn how to reframe self-doubt and step into the next level of your growth with confidence!In This Episode:(01:35) Embrace Imposter Syndrome for Growth(06:15) Overcoming Imposter Syndrome Tools(12:49) Balancing Excitement and Anxiety(15:21) "Mixing Excitement with Safety"(19:07) Overcoming Self-Doubt with Positivity(22:14) Uncover Subconscious Fears Exercise(25:03) Fear of Success and Exposure(30:33) Reframing Negativity: Embrace Positivity(35:47) Overcoming Self DoubtFOR OUR FULL LIST OF LINKS + RESOURCES, HEAD TO: https://www.thefunktionalnutritionist.com/podcast/352-imposter-syndrome-in-high-achieversCheck out The Funk’tional Nutritionist: Website | Instagram

In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the essential role of fascia and lymphatics in our health, and why these systems are vital for healing. Whether you're dealing with sports injuries, low back pain, chronic pain, digestive issues, or even tension headaches, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won’t want to miss.I’m joined by Tiffany Cruikshank, founder of Yoga Medicine, a transformative online membership that goes beyond just yoga classes. Tiffany’s expertise spans over 15 years in the wellness space, from her early studies in premed and Chinese medicine to her specialization in sports medicine, acupuncture at Nike HQ, and her recent focus on fertility and women’s health.What we cover in this episode:Fascia & Why It Matters: Learn why the fascial system is essential for overall health, how it impacts pain, mobility, and recovery, and why we need to treat our fascia to support overall well-being.Myofascial Release (MFR) to Support Your Nervous System and Body: Tiffany explains how Myofascial Release (MFR) can be an effective adjunct therapy to support the nervous system, relieve pain, and improve mobility. She also shares practical insights on how to do MFR at home as a tool for self-care and injury prevention.Lymphatics, Glymphatics & Brain Health: We discuss the fascinating connection between the lymphatic system, glymphatics, and brain health. Tiffany emphasizes the importance of considering lymph for anything related to immune health, especially in the context of autoimmunity and immune system dysregulation.Aging and Wellness: As two women who have been in the wellness space for decades, Tiffany and I have an unplanned but heartfelt discussion about aging. We explore how we can reframe the aging body, particularly from the lens of Chinese Medicine, and Tiffany offers her perspective on Chinese Medicine’s view on perimenopause and how it makes sense of the female reproductive system.Tiffany will also be teaching an upcoming masterclass at the Funk’tional Nutrition Academy (FNA), which is currently open for enrollment. If you’re a practitioner looking for a comprehensive, holistic approach to client care, this is the program for you.In This Episode:(02:00) Exploring Fascia and Lymph Health(08:46) Yoga Medicine: Purpose-Driven Practices(12:46) Fascia's Response to Emotional Input(17:47) Hyaluronan Aggregation and Mobility Issues(24:30) Enhancing Proprioception: Yoga vs. MFR(34:28) Fascia Care: Quick, Impactful Techniques(41:12) Thoracic Pump and Pressure Dynamics(44:43) Lymphatic Health Through Movement & Massage(51:46) Embracing Aging Mindset Shift(58:54) Yoga Medicine: Classes, Trainings, & OutreachFOR OUR FULL LIST OF LINKS + RESOURCES, HEAD TO: https://www.thefunktionalnutritionist.com/podcast/351-fascia-and-lymphatics-explainedCheck out The Funk’tional Nutritionist: Website | Instagram

Have you ever felt dismissed by a doctor when trying to get answers about your health? You’re not alone. In this episode, we dive into the reality of medical gaslighting—especially for women struggling with autoimmune diseases. From misdiagnosis to being told symptoms are “just stress,” we explore why this happens, how it impacts long-term health, and what you can do to advocate for yourself. Tune in for expert insights, real stories, and practical strategies to take control of your health journey.If you're a practitioner looking to better support clients with autoimmunity, our LIVE 4-Day Autoimmunity Training Program is for you. You'll learn clinical clues, how to assess for root causes, and empower patients to reclaim their health. Enrollment is open now—click here to sign up!In This Episode:(06:03) Autoimmunity: Clinical and Emotional Insights(10:34) "Medical Gaslighting in Diagnosis"(15:30) Ignoring Women's Pain in Healthcare(22:55) Dealing with Medical Mystery(27:49) The Burden of Chronic Suffering(32:51) "Earning Trust for Healing"(35:14) The Importance of Listening(38:18) Helping Clients Explore Health Options(41:32) Functional Medicine: Knowing Your Limits(43:24) In-Depth Health Root Cause AnalysisFOR OUR FULL LIST OF LINKS + RESOURCES, HEAD TO: https://www.thefunktionalnutritionist.com/podcast/350-womens-health-and-medical-gaslightingCheck out The Funk’tional Nutritionist: Website | Instagram

Leaky gut is more than just a buzzword—it’s a key player in autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s, PCOS, and even menopause-related health issues. Your gut barrier isn’t just about digestion; it directly impacts your immune system, hormone balance, and inflammation levels. When this barrier becomes compromised, it can trigger widespread symptoms, from brain fog and joint pain to thyroid dysfunction and insulin resistance.In this episode, we’re diving deep into the gut-hormone connection, exploring how intestinal permeability contributes to autoimmunity and why healing the gut is just one piece of the puzzle. We’ll break down the science behind leaky gut, discuss its impact on thyroid and hormone health, and share strategies for restoring gut integrity using functional medicine. If you’re a practitioner or someone struggling with chronic symptoms, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!In This Episode:(01:26) GI Tract: The Body's Barrier(06:02) Inflammation: The Good and the Bad(08:11) Understanding Leaky Gut Symptoms(12:25) Autoimmunity and Holistic Healing Insights(15:39) Hidden Autoimmune Cause of Hypothyroidism(20:34) Gut Bacteria, Dysbiosis, and Health Impact(25:14) Gut Health's Role in PCOS(26:30) Menopause: Gut Permeability and Bone Health(30:31) Aging and Senescent Cells Explained(35:52) "Diet's Role in Gut Health"(40:10) "Optimal Gut Healing Supplements"FOR OUR FULL LIST OF LINKS + RESOURCES, HEAD TO: https://www.thefunktionalnutritionist.com/podcast/349-how-leaky-gut-triggers-autoimmunity?rq=349Check out The Funk’tional Nutritionist: Website | Instagram

The podcast dives into the rising concerns about histamine intolerance and its impact on autoimmune conditions. It highlights how gut health influences histamine production and immune function. Discussions include the effects of chronic stress, mold exposure, and digestion issues on histamine levels. Listeners learn about the importance of the enzyme DAO for gut health and how nutrient deficiencies can exacerbate histamine problems. Practical tips for managing symptoms and personalized treatment approaches are also explored.

In this episode, Erin Holt sits down with JP Errico—inventor, entrepreneur, and co-founder of electroCore—to explore the powerful role of the vagus nerve in whole-body health. If you’ve never heard of the vagus nerve before, you’re not alone—but this key player connects the brain, gut, immune system, and autonomic nervous system, impacting everything from inflammation and digestion to stress and chronic illness. Erin and JP dive into the explosion of autoimmune conditions, the mind-body connection, and how vagus nerve stimulation could be the missing link to better health. Tune in to discover how activating this vital nerve may help restore balance and unlock healing.In This Episode:(4:06) Vagus Nerve: The Brain-Body Connection(11:52) Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic States(12:46) Understanding Heart Rate Variability(16:29) Why Rest-Based Training Produces the Biggest Gains(24:30) How the Brain’s Perception Influences the Immune Response(36:42) The Potential Asthma Treatment You Haven’t Heard of Yet(47:43) Vagus Nerve's Impact on Gut Health(49:55) How the Vagus Nerve Device Boosts Learning & Cognition(53:15) Vagus Nerve: Key to AgingFOR OUR FULL LIST OF LINKS + RESOURCES, HEAD TO: https://www.thefunktionalnutritionist.com/podcast/ 347-vagus-nerve-connection-with-jp-errico Check out The Funk’tional Nutritionist: Website | Instagram