Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations with Dr. Izabella Wentz

In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz  interviews Danielle "Dani" Hamilton, a Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and a renowned blood sugar expert. Dani specializes in utilizing a personalized circadian and quantum approach to optimize metabolic health, a journey sparked by her own struggles with PCOS, hypoglycemia, acne, and weight loss resistance.  The episode dives into the often-overlooked link between hypoglycemia and hypothyroidism, the many symptoms of low blood sugar, and how to balance blood sugar when you have hypoglycemia.   What you’ll learn in this episode: Why low blood sugar might be sabotaging your thyroid health: Hypoglycemia often flies under the radar in hypothyroidism and may be responsible for increased thyroid antibodies, fatigue, an inability to lose weight, anxiety, insomnia, cravings and mood swings.  Metabolic hypoglycemia is under-recognized: Many people experience symptoms like shakiness, anxiety, brain fog, or waking at 2 AM, even with blood sugar levels in the 70s or 80s—levels that are often dismissed by doctors as “normal.” Hypoglycemia can drive hormonal chaos: Dani reversed her PCOS not by directly treating hormones but by stabilizing her blood sugar. Dysregulated blood sugar disrupts thyroid function, sex hormones, cortisol, and even fertility. Your “personality traits” may be symptoms: Cravings, being “hangry,” needing snacks constantly, or being unable to skip meals are not just quirks—they’re often signs of blood sugar instability and metabolic dysfunction. Sunlight, not just food, fuels metabolism: Infrared and UVA light from the sun play a crucial role in mitochondrial health, blood sugar regulation, fat burning, and thyroid hormone activation. Dani emphasized our modern “sunlight deficiency” as a key factor in fatigue and metabolic issues. Leptin tells your body whether it’s safe to burn fat: Low leptin, common in over-stressed, underfed, overexercised women, suppresses thyroid function and keeps the body in famine mode. The solution isn’t more fasting—it’s strategic nourishment and nervous system regulation. Tune in to learn more about how to manage blood sugar effectively! Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/  For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

In this episode of Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews integrative pediatrician Dr. Roy Steinbock to explore the often-overlooked links between thyroid dysfunction, mental health, and chronic conditions in children and postpartum mothers. As a physician who blends conventional medicine with functional and holistic tools, Dr. Steinbock shares practical insights on how to identify and address root causes of common issues like fatigue, anxiety, ADHD, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). What you’ll learn in this episode: Thyroid disorders in kids often present differently than in adults. Dr. Roy shares how symptoms like anxiety, constipation, insomnia, and even changes in handwriting can indicate an underlying thyroid issue. Postpartum thyroid dysfunction is more common than you think. Many mothers with postpartum anxiety or depression may actually have undiagnosed thyroid issues, and testing TSH alone often isn’t enough. Iron and ferritin levels are crucial for thyroid and mental health. Dr. Roy explains how low ferritin can trigger fatigue, anxiety, immune dysfunction and even behavioral issues in children — even when hemoglobin levels (iron tests) appear normal. Furthermore they can prevent proper use of thyroid hormones. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) may be tied to thyroid and nutrient imbalances. Supplements like myo-inositol, NAC, and even nutritional lithium can make a big impact — especially when combined with thyroid support. PANDAS is a real and underdiagnosed condition. We break down the signs, the overlap with thyroid dysfunction, and how antibiotics and IVIG therapy are helping some children recover. Tune in to learn more about pediatric thyroid health, mental health, and how integrative care can offer lasting healing for families. Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/  For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Dr. Elena Zinkov about the critical yet often misunderstood transition of perimenopause.   Dr. Zinkov is a naturopathic doctor who has dedicated her career to empowering women through innovative hormone and peptide therapies. Having faced her own struggles with perimenopause symptoms in her 30s, Dr. Zinkov refused to accept what the medical establishment deemed "normal." Frustrated by a system that often overlooks the unique challenges women face such as brain fog, fatigue, weight gain, and metabolic dysfunction — she embarked on a mission to change the narrative. Dr. Zinkov is leading the charge in redefining women’s health through innovative hormone and peptide therapies — specifically designed to empower women over 35 to reprogram their metabolism, build muscle, and confidently defy the aging process.  The conversation addresses common misconceptions about hormone replacement therapy, and offers insight into the role that hormones like progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone play in the body.  Listeners will learn about:  Perimenopause starts earlier than most women realize — often in their 30s. Dr. Zinkov explains that hormone decline begins as early as our mid-twenties, and symptoms like insomnia, anxiety, mood swings, weight gain, and irregular cycles can start showing up long before periods stop. Tracking hormone fluctuations through regular testing is key to catching these changes early. Progesterone is the first hormone to decline — and it's essential for sleep, mood, and calm. Bioidentical progesterone metabolizes into allopregnanolone, which activates GABA receptors in the brain. This calming effect is why declining progesterone often shows up as insomnia, anxiety, and irritability. And no — progestin is not the same thing. In fact, it can worsen mood and increase health risks. Growth hormone peptides (like sermorelin, CJC, Ipamorelin) paired with GLP-1s (like semaglutide) may help reverse metabolic decline in perimenopause. Dr. Zinkov shares that this combination not only supports weight loss but also builds lean muscle, regulates blood sugar, and boosts energy. These peptides work best when hormones are balanced, and they may even reduce autoimmune markers and inflammation. Testosterone is critical for motivation, libido, muscle mass, and mood in women — but needs to be carefully dosed. Despite fears of "bulking up," women naturally produce testosterone and often need small amounts in midlife. Starting with a microdose (like 0.5–1 mg) in topical form can support energy and mental drive without unwanted side effects like acne or hair growth. Weight loss isn’t just about willpower or calories in/calories out — it’s about metabolic function, hormones, and muscle. Crash dieting and over-exercising can backfire, especially in perimenopause. Dr. Zinkov emphasizes prioritizing protein, resistance training, and supporting thyroid, adrenal, and sex hormones to rebuild metabolism from the inside out. Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

In this episode of Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews the late Dr. Mark Mandel, a pioneering compounding pharmacist and advocate for integrative medicine. With decades of experience – specifically around low dose naltrexone (LDN). Dr. Mandel helped thousands of patients with chronic and autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s through personalized therapies. He was also a passionate patient advocate, always encouraging patients to rethink what’s possible beyond conventional treatments. What you’ll learn in this episode: Unlocking the Power of Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN): Discover how LDN, a low dose immune modulator, is transforming care for over 200 conditions — including Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease — by boosting your body’s natural endorphins and promoting deep healing from within. The Compounding Edge: Learn how compounding pharmacies customize medications — from bioidentical hormones to allergy-friendly formulas — offering truly personalized treatment options that standard prescriptions just can’t match. Real-Life Results, Real Relief: Hear powerful stories of patients reclaiming their lives with LDN — experiencing less pain, better mobility, and a return to everyday activities they thought were lost for good. Healing That Doesn’t Break the Bank: LDN is not only effective — it’s affordable. A generic, compounded medication it offers a gentle yet powerful alternative to costly treatments with harsh side effects. LDN can Teach the Body to Heal Itself: Unlike traditional immunosuppressants that simply block symptoms, LDN helps retrain the immune system — guiding it back into balance. Learn how this unique approach can restore immune function gently and intelligently, leading to lasting, whole-body wellness. Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews biohacker and Bulletproof founder Dave Asprey, diving deep into the science of performance, resilience, and true health optimization. Dave talks about the tools he used through his personal health challenges, including Hashimoto's and chronic fatigue, to overcome mold toxicity, reclaim cognitive clarity, and re-mineralize his body.He shares that you can heal your physical body, but sometimes your brain and mindset can keep you stuck. Meditation is one way out, but it’s not the only way out (and often not the best way out). Listeners will learn about the fascinating world of biohacking, and discover practical tools and strategies that can help rewire the brain and heal the body.  Tune in to discover how:    Meditation helps rewire the brain out of chronic stress, can reduce inflammation and improve neuroplasticity. These changes are especially relevant for people with autoimmune conditions, PTSD, or brain fog, as they promote healing and cognitive flexibility, as well as improve emotional regulation, focus, and resilience. Not every brain is wired for traditional meditation. Fast-thinking, high-reactive brains (sometimes called “hunter brains”) may find sitting meditation frustrating or even dysregulating. These individuals often do better with active or tech-assisted practices. Neurofeedback is one powerful alternative to traditional meditation. It uses real-time brainwave feedback to train the brain into calm, focused states — without requiring years of practice. Results can include better sleep, less reactivity, and enhanced cognitive clarity. But there are also many others. :-) Healing the body doesn’t automatically rewire the stress response. Izabella shared how even after remission from Hashimoto’s, her brain patterns remained stuck in fear and overwork — until she incorporated adrenal and brain retraining tools like neurofeedback and adaptogens. Trigger management is energy management. Every unresolved trigger drains energy — and adrenal recovery (both physiologic and emotional) frees up that energy for healing, joy, and growth. Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! If you listened and loved this episode, please share and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

In this historically important episode, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Carter Black, R.Ph., a compounding pharmacist and women's health consultant with over 40 years of experience.  Mr. Black has extensive training through the Institute of Functional Medicine, Hashimoto’s Self Management Program, and the Hashimoto's Institute, and is a member of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists. He also has over 40 years of experience working with compounded medications and bioidentical hormones, and is Dr. Izabella Wentz's go-to resource for compounded medications and hormones.  Together, they delve into the evolution of thyroid treatment, discussing the transition from natural desiccated thyroid to synthetic medications like Synthroid and levothyroxine. Mr. Black also dives into unique compounded medications that can help people with thyroid and autoimmune conditions. The history of thyroid treatment was impacted by pharmaceutical marketing. Natural desiccated thyroid was the standard until Synthroid's aggressive marketing campaigns shifted care to T4-only — regardless of patient outcomes. The TSH test revolutionized  —  and narrowed — thyroid care. Once TSH became the gold standard, doctors stopped treating symptoms and started chasing lab numbers, leaving many patients behind. Some patients simply don’t convert T4 to T3 — and suffer because of it. Carter explains why this population often feels unheard, and how adding T3 or switching to compounded thyroid meds can change everything. Endocrinologists’ fear of T3 is rooted in a dark history. In the ‘80s, weight loss clinics combined T3 with stimulants, leading to thyroid storms and hospitalizations — creating long-standing medical stigma. Women are underserved in medicine — especially in hormones and autoimmune treatment. Carter shares how his passion for women’s health grew out of loss, and why compounding may be the only way to truly personalize care. I hope you will enjoy this podcast episode! It was originally recorded in 2017 as an interview that was featured in my popular documentary series, The Thyroid Secret. I’m releasing this never seen interview in its entirety in honor of World Thyroid Day, and also re-releasing the entire Thyroid Secret documentary series for free over May 23rd-26th. Please click here to sign up for the free, limited-time screening!   Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations Podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/ What you’ll learn in this episode:

In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Ben Azadi, a distinguished figure in the field of metabolic health. Known as the founder of Keto Camp and the author of several bestselling books, including his upcoming release Metabolic Freedom, Ben shares his inspiring journey from obesity to a healthy lifestyle. He aims to help others achieve metabolic flexibility and improve their overall health through natural methods. The conversation delves into the vital connection between metabolic health and mental well-being, along with practical strategies for adopting a ketogenic lifestyle. Key Learning Points: Metabolic Flexibility is the True Goal Rather than staying in continuous ketosis, Ben emphasizes the importance of metabolic flexibility — being able to efficiently switch between burning glucose and fat. This flexibility improves energy, resilience, and long-term metabolic health, especially when personalized to one’s needs, like cycling carbs for hormone support. Mitochondrial Health Drives Everything Ben explains that mitochondria aren’t just energy factories — they're intelligent sensors of stress. When overwhelmed, they trigger a "cell danger response" that can lead to chronic illness, including autoimmunity. Supporting mitochondria with ketones, glutathione, and melatonin is key for energy, mood, and thyroid function. Liver Function is a Keto Dealbreaker A sluggish liver can sabotage the ketogenic transition by impairing fat digestion. Ben recommends prepping with bitter foods like arugula and apple cider vinegar, and in some cases, using ox bile or castor oil packs to improve bile flow and detoxification — especially important for people with thyroid issues. Dairy-Free Keto is Often a Key Component to Keto Success in Hashimoto’s.  Many people hit a wall with keto due to hidden food sensitivities — especially to dairy — which can trigger inflammation, hormone imbalances, or stalled weight loss. Removing dairy can ease congestion, support clearer skin, and reduce bloating Fasting for Women Requires Strategy Fasting is not inherently harmful for women or those with thyroid issues, but it must be introduced gradually and strategically. Ben advises monitoring HRV (heart rate variability) as a marker for resilience and recommends premenstrual carb cycling to support progesterone production and hormonal balance. Hypoglycemia Can Be Reversed with the Right Keto Entry Many with Hashimoto’s or adrenal issues experience hypoglycemia, making keto or fasting initially difficult. Ben suggests a “low and slow” approach — gradually reducing carbs, increasing nutrient-dense fats, and possibly using supplements like chromium, magnesium, or carnitine to ease the transition and stabilize blood sugar. Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz welcomes metabolic health coach and functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner, Maja Miller. With a wealth of experience helping clients achieve optimal health, Maja dives deep into the often-overlooked importance of minerals in maintaining bodily functions and overall well-being. She discusses the common deficiencies many face today and shares practical insights on how to address them through a holistic approach to nutrition. Listeners will discover:  Minerals are the “spark plugs” of the body. They drive every metabolic process, including hormone production, energy, and detoxification. Without the right minerals in balance—especially foundational ones like magnesium, sodium, potassium, and calcium—your body’s systems can’t function properly, no matter how "healthy" your diet looks on the surface. Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) reveals deep insights. Blood tests show only what’s in transit, but 90–95% of minerals are stored inside cells. HTMA provides a 3-month snapshot of what’s going on intracellularly and is especially useful in identifying mineral deficiencies, toxicities, and imbalances that blood work misses. Thyroid issues may actually be mineral issues. The thyroid relies on at least nine key minerals—including iodine, magnesium, zinc, and copper—to function properly. TSH may look “normal” on labs, but if minerals are deficient or out of balance, thyroid hormone won’t be produced, converted, or utilized properly at the cellular level. Pregnancy and breastfeeding rapidly deplete minerals. Women can lose up to 20% of their bone density while breastfeeding, especially if they enter pregnancy already deficient. Maja emphasizes the importance of remineralizing preconception and during postpartum to prevent issues like tooth demineralization, postpartum anxiety, and infertility. Low stomach acid from mineral deficiencies opens the door to infections. Sodium is required for stomach acid production, but it’s been demonized in modern diets. Without enough stomach acid, pathogens like H. pylori, mold, and parasites can thrive—especially in those with thyroid issues, where low stomach acid is common yet often misdiagnosed. Tune in for an informative discussion that empowers listeners to understand the vital connection between minerals and overall well-being. Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Dr. Eric Osansky, a chiropractor and clinical nutritionist with extensive experience in treating hyperthyroidism and Graves' disease through natural methods. Drawing from his own journey with Graves' disease, Dr. Osansky shares valuable insights into effective natural treatment options that empower individuals to manage their symptoms and improve their overall health. Listeners will learn about Dr. Osansky's personal experience with Graves' disease, which spurred his commitment to helping others navigate the complexities of thyroid health. In the podcast, he shares info on natural remedies that can be beneficial for those with hyperthyroidism, including herbs like bugleweed and motherwort, and how these can provide effective symptom relief. Dr. Osansky also talks about the similarities and differences between Graves' disease and Hashimoto's, shedding light on overlapping symptoms and treatment strategies.  Key highlights of the episode include: Dr. Eric Osansky shares his personal journey with Graves' Disease and discusses the natural treatment options he explored after being diagnosed in 2008. His journey illustrates that individuals can reclaim their health through a holistic approach rather than solely relying on conventional medications. The episode highlights the overlap between Graves' Disease and Hashimoto's, discussing how individuals can present symptoms of both conditions simultaneously. He explains the importance of understanding these conditions as autoimmune issues rather than just thyroid disorders. Dr. Osansky recommends natural alternatives for symptom management, such as bugleweed and motherwort, which can help regulate thyroid hormone levels. While these herbs can be effective, it’s crucial to monitor thyroid function closely to avoid adverse effects. The conversation delves into the role of gut health in thyroid conditions, with Dr. Osansky advocating for testing for infections like H. pylori and parasites. Addressing gut health can significantly impact autoimmune responses and overall thyroid function. Dr. Osansky discusses thyroid eye disease and suggests supplements such as selenium and alpha-lipoic acid as supportive measures. He stresses the importance of a comprehensive approach to treatment that includes addressing underlying causes, optimizing gut health, and managing inflammation. Dr. Osansky’s knowledge and expertise offer hope and practical strategies for optimizing thyroid health naturally.  Tune in and discover how you can navigate your healing journey, and don't forget to share this episode with anyone who might benefit! Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews her longtime friend Magdalena Wszelaki, a prominent expert in hormone balance and a passionate advocate for women’s health.  Magdalena Wszelaki, a leading expert in hormone balance and a personal advocate for women's health. Magdalena is an endocrine nutrition expert, certified herbalist, speaker, educator and author of two books, Cooking for Hormone Balance and Overcoming Estrogen Dominance. She is also the founder of Hormones Balance community and Wellena products – supplements made by women, for women.  She’s experienced her own hormonal challenges including Graves’ and Hashimoto’s disease, as well as estrogen dominance. Today she is in full remission and sailed through perimenopause — and she teaches women how to accomplish the same.  Their conversation centers around the intricate connections between thyroid health, estrogen dominance, and perimenopause.  What you’ll learn in this episode: Estrogen dominance is extremely common and often underdiagnosed, contributing to symptoms like heavy periods, fibrocystic breasts, thyroid nodules, irritability, and even an increased risk for estrogen-related cancers; it can occur even when estrogen levels are “normal” if progesterone is too low or estrogen isn’t properly metabolized. The liver plays a critical role in hormone balance by detoxifying used-up hormones like estrogen, and supporting liver function through bitters, broccoli sprouts, and sulforaphane can significantly improve hormone-related symptoms. Dutch testing (urine hormone testing) is the gold standard for identifying estrogen dominance and poor estrogen metabolism, while conventional blood tests for hormones often miss imbalances, especially during perimenopause and menopause. For low progesterone, herbal options like Vitex can be helpful early in perimenopause, but many women eventually need bioidentical progesterone (topical or oral) to properly restore balance, improve sleep, calm anxiety, and protect against estrogen excess. Inflammation is a root driver of hormone imbalances, Hashimoto’s, and estrogen dominance; addressing it through an anti-inflammatory diet, stress management, gut healing, and toxin reduction is essential before or alongside using hormone therapies. Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode!  If you listened and loved this episode, please share and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/