Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations with Dr. Izabella Wentz

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/

In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz speaks with James Maskell, author, speaker, and healthcare entrepreneur, who is affectionately called “the Ryan Seacrest of Functional Medicine,” and is the leading voice in spreading awareness of the impact of integrative medicine.  James has created a number of organizations to scale access to health focused care, and is a thought leader who has been featured at the World Health Organization, TEDMED, HuffPostLive, and TEDx.  James shares the critical issue of cognitive decline in light of his personal experiences with his father's rapid decline, which turned out to be reversible. The podcast explores the interconnectedness of environmental factors, community support, and innovative approaches to reversing cognitive decline, highlighting the importance of awareness and proactive measures for maintaining brain health. Tune in to discover valuable insights about cognitive health, including: Rapid cognitive decline can often be triggered by infections or environmental toxins, such as mold exposure. In James Maskell’s personal story, identifying and removing his father from a moldy environment led to a dramatic improvement in cognition. Cognitive decline is no longer just an issue for the elderly; it's increasingly affecting people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. Environmental factors, infections, metabolic inflammation, and even the stressors of recent years have contributed to earlier onset cognitive issues. A new software platform is being developed to help functional medicine doctors more easily diagnose and reverse cognitive decline. By organizing patient lab data and identifying patterns, this technology aims to simplify complex cases and make root cause medicine more accessible. Cognitive decline is often driven by six main root causes: metabolic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and nutrient depletion, hormonal imbalances, chemical toxins, chronic infections and biotoxins, and vascular issues. Addressing these systematically can lead to significant recovery and prevention. Preventing cognitive decline starts decades before symptoms appear. Proactive testing, lifestyle changes, and addressing early functional imbalances around age 55 — or even earlier — can dramatically shift brain health outcomes later in life. 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, host Dr. Izabella Wentz welcomes personal trainer and functional nutrition coach April Rodriguez to discuss thyroid-friendly fitness. April shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with Hashimoto's six months after giving birth, which led her to explore the intricate relationship between thyroid health and fitness. The conversation is packed with insights that can transform the way you think about exercise and nutrition, especially if you've ever felt overwhelmed or discouraged on your journey. What you’ll learn in this episode: Overexercising Can Backfire with Hashimoto’s April explains that intense workouts like HIIT or OrangeTheory can leave women with Hashimoto’s feeling inflamed, fatigued for days, or even flu-like. Instead of pushing harder, she encourages strength training with progressive overload that meets the body where it’s at—supporting muscle gain without burnout. Exhausted After a Workout? That’s a Red Flag If a workout leaves you depleted instead of energized, it’s likely working against you, not for you. April recommends checking hydration, adding electrolytes, adjusting meal timing, and possibly shifting to a lower-intensity routine while tuning in to how your body responds. Calorie Restriction Can Worsen Thyroid Function Chronically undereating can backfire, especially with hypothyroidism. April uses a “feed phase” approach, gradually increasing calories to optimize thyroid health, metabolism, and insulin sensitivity—often helping clients lose fat by eating more. Pre/Post Workout Fueling Matters April recommends fueling with 25–30g of protein and ~25% of daily carbs both before and after workouts. She avoids high-fat meals pre-workout for better digestion and energy. This helps with recovery, lean muscle building, and balanced blood sugar—key for thyroid health. Blood Sugar Monitoring is Critical Women with thyroid issues often struggle with blood sugar regulation. April uses glucometers or continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) to detect hypoglycemia or insulin resistance. This helps tailor workouts and nutrition to stabilize energy and support fat loss. Progress Comes from Personalization April custom-builds fitness and nutrition protocols based on thyroid labs, symptoms, and biofeedback—not cookie-cutter plans. Red flags? If your coach doesn’t ask about your thyroid or ignores symptoms like fatigue or hypoglycemia, they may not be the right fit. 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/

This episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast features Dr. Lauryn Lax, a former TV journalist turned functional medicine expert. Dr. Lauryn shares her inspiring journey of overcoming 13 chronic illnesses, including Hashimoto’s, hypothyroidism, IBS, Lyme disease, mast cell activation, mold toxicity, orthorexia, and anorexia. Now a functional medicine expert, Dr. Lauryn empowers others to heal from within, with a focus on gut health, hormones, detoxing, faith, and mindset. The conversation delves into the psychological aspects of healing, where Dr. Lauryn discusses the healing philosophies of German New Medicine and their relevance in thyroid and adrenal health. What You’ll Learn: The "Kidney Collecting Tubule Conflict" and Isolation Weight Gain: Dr. Lauryn explains how sudden, unexplained weight gain, fatigue, and thyroid/hormonal issues can stem from emotional trauma — especially feelings of abandonment, isolation, or existential fear. During the pandemic, many people (including Izabella) experienced this "beached whale syndrome," where the body retains water and weight as a protective mechanism due to deep emotional stress. Thyroid Symptoms as Metaphors for “Uncaught Morsels”: In German New Medicine, thyroid issues often stem from a psychological perception of “not being able to catch a morsel”— whether that’s time, love, purpose, or personal space. For women, this often relates to self-sacrifice, lack of boundaries, or losing one’s identity in caregiving or work. Gut-First Approach to Healing the Thyroid: Dr. Lauryn emphasizes that true thyroid healing starts in the gut. She explains how optimizing digestion, healing intestinal permeability, and rebalancing the microbiome can restore hormone function — even in autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s. Healing the Identity Before the Body: One of Dr. Lauryn’s core teachings is helping clients rewrite their identity — moving from “I am Hashimoto’s” or “I am sick” to “I am healing” or “I am resilient.” She encourages designing a higher version of self ("that girl/guy") and embodying that person before full physical healing manifests. The Power of Mindset in Food Reactions: She shares how food sensitivities aren’t just biological but can be linked to unresolved emotional stressors. For instance, a child may develop a peanut allergy after experiencing emotional trauma while eating a PB&J, wiring the food to danger. Rewiring the nervous system and beliefs can help reverse food reactions. Mold Sensitivity and Emotional Resilience: Mold toxicity symptoms often correlate with a prior season of intense stress. Dr. Lauryn points out that mold is the trigger — but the body’s inability to detox is usually due to weakened resilience from trauma, toxins, or immune imbalance. Addressing the inner terrain is as vital as detoxing the mold. Healing is 80% Emotional and 20% Tactical: Whether it’s an autoimmune illness, food sensitivities, or gut dysfunction, Dr. Lauryn’s approach is 80% about resolving the emotional root and 20% about physical support (like enzymes, magnesium, sauna, or supplements). She uses mindset tools like mantras (“What would healthy me do?”) and EFT tapping to rewire the nervous system. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of thyroid health and pathways to healing. 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 Rachel Hill, a dedicated thyroid advocate and author of The Positive Thyroid Pregnancy Book. Rachel shares her personal experiences and expertise on managing thyroid conditions, particularly hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's, during pregnancy and motherhood.Rachel's journey serves as a beacon of hope for women with thyroid disease. Her advocacy work and multiple books are informative and inspiring, reminding women that with the right information and proactive measures, a healthy pregnancy journey is possible.What you’ll learn in this episode:  The impact of thyroid conditions on fertility and pregnancy Strategies for optimizing thyroid hormone levels before and during pregnancy The importance of key nutrients and lifestyle choices for healthy pregnancies Insights into managing postpartum health and mental well-being Self-advocacy tips for women and moms-to-be with thyroid issues Tune in to learn more about navigating fertility and pregnancy with thyroid disease! 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 shares her personal journey and professional insights on the potential links between parasitic infections and autoimmune conditions, specifically focusing on Hashimoto's, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and chronic hives. Dr. Wentz discusses the "three-legged stool of autoimmunity" theory proposed by Dr. Alessio Fasano, which suggests that for an autoimmune condition to develop, three factors must be present: genetic predisposition, an environmental trigger, and intestinal permeability (or leaky gut). She then delves into how addressing these components can lead to symptom relief and even remission.Listeners will hear about her own healing journey, as well as a particular protozoa, Blastocystis hominis, she uncovered in a large percentage of her clients with Hashimoto’s, using functional medicine stool tests. She gets into the research behind this protozoa. Dr. Wentz’s mission is to help empower people through advocating the importance of individualized care, understanding your body, and encouraging listeners to be proactive health detectives in their own journeys.Tune in to learn about:   Potential links between parasites and Hashimoto's – How infections like Blastocystis hominis may contribute to autoimmune conditions, IBS and hives. The three-legged stool of autoimmunity – Genetic factors, triggers, and leaky gut are key factors with autoimmune disease. Personal healing stories – Dr. Wentz shares her experiences with Hashimoto's and IBS, illustrating the connection between gut health and thyroid function. Testing for gut infections – Learn about what tests you can take to help you uncover some key infections and other gut issues.  Treatment options – Learn about conventional and natural approaches to treating parasitic infections and restoring gut health. This episode offers some amazing tips for anyone who is looking to understand their root cause, and suspects that their gut health might be an issue. Tune in to learn how you can take charge of your health and uncover the root causes of your symptoms!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. Amie Hornaman — also known as “The Thyroid Fixer”— to explore the often-overlooked hormone T2 and its vital role in metabolism, energy, and thyroid function. Dr. Amie is a leading voice in thyroid health, the founder of the Better Thyroid and Hormone Institute, and the host of her own top-rated podcast, The Thyroid Fixer.Before becoming a thyroid expert, Dr. Amie was a competitive figure athlete. She trained rigorously, followed a clean diet, and did everything “right”— yet she was inexplicably gaining weight and losing energy. Her experience of being dismissed by doctors and told she was “fine” while her body told a different story is one that will resonate with many listeners.Together, Dr. Wentz and Dr. Hornaman dive deep into: The significance of T2: How this lesser-known thyroid hormone can support fat loss, boost metabolism, and enhance mitochondrial function The patient journey: Why even the most health-savvy individuals can fall through the cracks of traditional medicine “Thyropause” explained: How hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause impact thyroid function and what to do about it Personalized treatment strategies: Why cookie-cutter approaches don’t work—and what to look for in functional thyroid care Becoming your own advocate: How to navigate the healthcare system, push for better testing, and reclaim your energy and well-being If you’ve ever been told your labs are “normal” but you feel anything but, or you’re navigating the hormonal rollercoaster of midlife, this episode is a must-listen. It’s packed with practical, compassionate guidance rooted in both science and lived experience. Don’t miss this empowering conversation filled with hope, healing, and next steps for your thyroid journey.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/