Autoimmune Alchemy

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Amir Esparza, double board-certified colorectal surgeon at City of Hope, to discuss the alarming rise of colorectal cancer in patients under 45—becoming the #1 cause of cancer death in young adults.

Dr. Esparza reveals warning signs often dismissed as hemorrhoids, explains why 30% of rectal cancer patients can avoid surgery through chemo/radiation alone, and shares robotic surgery breakthroughs reducing hospital stays from 7-10 days to 1-2 days.

We discuss fiber's power (30g daily), why 90% of Americans are constipated, gut microbiome's impact on mood and immunity, and City of Hope's integrative approach combining surgery with acupuncture and multi-faith spiritual care.

Key Takeaways

1. Colorectal cancer becoming #1 young adult cancer death by 2030 (20% under 45)
2. Start screening at 45 (or 10 years before family member's diagnosis)
3. Warning signs: rectal bleeding, weight loss, stool changes, pain
4. <20% diagnosed during screening—most symptomatic when found
5. 30% rectal cancer patients avoid surgery with chemo/radiation
6. Robotic surgery: 7-10 days → 1-2 days hospital stay
7. Fiber: 30g daily prevents constipation, diverticulitis, cancer
8. 90% Americans constipated—fiber changes microbiome in 3-4 weeks
9. Gut microbiome (3-4 lbs) impacts mood, sleep, immunity, blood sugar
10. Core activation during weightlifting prevents hemorrhoids
11. 
    

Chapters & Timestamps

02:00 Early Warning Signs Often Dismissed

04:00 Less Than 20% Diagnosed During Screening

05:00 30% Avoid Surgery with Chemo/Radiation

07:00 Robotic Surgery: 1-2 Day Hospital Stays

09:00 When to Get Screened: Age 45 & Family History

14:00 Diverticulitis Prevention Through Fiber

16:00 Why 30 Grams Daily Fiber Changes Everything

20:00 Seeds & Nuts Don't Cause Diverticulitis (Myth)

24:00 Gut Microbiome Controls Mood, Sleep & Immunity

26:00 90% of Americans Are Constipated

34:00 Best Fiber Sources: Avocados, Chia, Berries

42:00 Bloating & Food Intolerances

45:00 Hemorrhoid Treatment: Office vs Surgery

52:00 Core Activation Prevents Hemorrhoids

56:00 City of Hope's Integrative Medicine

Guest Details

Amir Esparza, MD, FACS — Colorectal & General Surgeon

Credentials: Double board-certified. Administrative Chief Resident, University of Illinois Chicago. Outstanding Resident Leadership Award. City of Hope Orange County.

Specializations: Robotic & minimally invasive colorectal cancer surgery, perianal disease, fecal incontinence, diverticulitis, hemorrhoids. Research: remote surgical techniques.

Philosophy: Compassionate care transforms lives. Combines precision surgery with integrative medicine (acupuncture, yoga, meditation, multi-faith spiritual care).

Connect:

Instagram: @dr.amiresparza

YouTube: @dramiresparza

LinkedIn: dramiresparza

Dr. Micah Yu, DC, CFMP

Functional Medicine Practitioner & Host of AutoImmune Alchemy

Dr. Micah Yu is a doctor of chiropractic and certified functional medicine practitioner specializing in autoimmune conditions and chronic illness. He recognizes mold exposure as a common root cause of autoimmune disease, particularly in patients with long-haul COVID who suddenly develop mold sensitivities. Dr. Yu is passionate about educating his community on environmental toxins and bringing expert voices like John Banta to help patients understand the hidden triggers affecting their health. He practices integrative medicine with his wife, creating a dynamic team dedicated to uncovering root causes and supporting patients on their healing journey.

Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM

Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University’s Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen.

Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy

AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex chronic conditions.

Hosted by Dr. Micah Yu, the show explores root causes like mold exposure, infections, and environmental toxins that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode features expert interviews and cutting-edge treatments to help listeners understand the "why" behind their illness and find pathways to healing.

Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy:

1. Website: MyautoimmunemdHome – New
2. Instagram: @myautoimmunemd
3. Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD
4. YouTube: @myautoimmunemd
5. Email: [email protected]

Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand mold's role in chronic illness, please leave a 5-star review!

This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or remediation. Individual results may vary.

I sat down with Dr. John Neustadt, naturopathic doctor and #1 Amazon bestselling author, reveals why bone density tests only predict 44% of fractures and how MK-4 vitamin K2 reduces fractures 70%—better than Fosamax.

We discuss shocking statistics: 1 in 19 women on SSRIs break bones, acid blockers strip minerals causing hip fractures, and strontium causes blood clots. Dr. Neustadt explains the Mediterranean diet's 20% risk reduction, the 0.6g protein per pound formula, and how HRT builds bone better than bisphosphonates that fail to prevent primary hip fractures.

1. Bone density tests only predict 44% of women's fractures, 21% of men's
2. Fosamax doesn't prevent primary hip fractures—only vertebral
3. 1 in 19 women on SSRIs for 1-5 years will break a bone
4. MK-4 (45mg) reduces fractures 70%+ in clinical trials
5. Mediterranean diet: 20% less osteoporosis, 21% fewer hip fractures
6. Protein formula: 0.6g per pound body weight minimum
7. Strontium ranelate: 1 blood clot per fracture prevented
8. HRT (estrogen + testosterone) builds bone safely when appropriate
9. Men need estradiol tested—testosterone converts to it for bone building
10. Sleep <6 hours = 17% of fractures in elderly

02:00 90% Not Tested: The Underdiagnosis Crisis

03:00 SSRIs & Acid Blockers Destroy Bones

05:00 Focus on Fractures, Not Just Bone Density

07:00 Pediatric Condition with Geriatric Consequences

09:00 H. Pylori & Acid Reflux Root Causes

10:00 Fosamax Doesn't Prevent Hip Fractures

12:00 36% Die Within a Year from Hip Fracture

14:00 Dr. Neustadt's Mother-in-Law Broke Hip on Fosamax

16:00 Mediterranean Diet: 20% Osteoporosis Reduction

18:00 The Missing Protein: 0.6g Per Pound Formula

21:00 Debunking 150-200g Protein Myths

23:00 Sleep & Fracture Risk: Under 6 Hours Dangerous

27:00 Only 4 Nutrients Reduce Fractures Clinically

30:00 MK-4 vs MK-7: Why MK-4 Wins

33:00 45mg MK-4 Approved in Japan Since 1990s

36:00 Strontium: Blood Clots for Every Fracture Prevented

42:00 Hormone Replacement: Estrogen, Progesterone, Testosterone

46:00 Men Need Estradiol for Bone Building

49:00 Reversing T-Scores: Real Patient Outcomes

51:00 NBI Health & Strong Bones Guarantee

Dr. John Neustadt, ND

Naturopathic Doctor & Osteoporosis Expert

Credentials: Naturopathic Doctor (Bastyr University), Founder/President Nutritional Biochemistry Inc., 100+ published medical articles, #1 Amazon bestselling author

Book: "Fracture Proof Your Bones: A Comprehensive Guide to Osteoporosis"

Specialization: Integrative osteoporosis treatment, MK-4 vitamin K2 research, fracture prevention, hormone optimization

Website: nbihealth.com

Products: MK-4 + D3 (3 calcium doses: 1000mg, 400mg, none)

Guarantee: Strong Bones Guarantee - bone density stabilizes/improves in 6 months

Dr. Micah Yu, DC, CFMP

Functional Medicine Practitioner & Host of AutoImmune Alchemy

Dr. Micah Yu is a doctor of chiropractic and certified functional medicine practitioner specializing in autoimmune conditions and chronic illness. He recognizes mold exposure as a common root cause of autoimmune disease, particularly in patients with long-haul COVID who suddenly develop mold sensitivities. Dr. Yu is passionate about educating his community on environmental toxins and bringing expert voices like John Banta to help patients understand the hidden triggers affecting their health. He practices integrative medicine with his wife, creating a dynamic team dedicated to uncovering root causes and supporting patients on their healing journey.

Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy

AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex chronic conditions.

Hosted by Dr. Micah Yu, the show explores root causes like mold exposure, infections, and environmental toxins that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode features expert interviews and cutting-edge treatments to help listeners understand the "why" behind their illness and find pathways to healing.

Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy:

1. Website: MyautoimmunemdHome – New
2. Instagram: @myautoimmunemd
3. Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD
4. YouTube: @myautoimmunemd
5. Email: [email protected]

Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand mold's role in chronic illness, please leave a 5-star review!

This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or remediation. Individual results may vary.

In this episode, I sit down with James and Dahlia Marin, integrative dietitians specializing in SIBO and IBS, to explore how food relationships shape healing and why all autoimmunity begins in the gut.

Dahlia shares her Hashimoto's journey—bringing antibodies from over 3,500 (off the charts) to nearly normal using food as medicine. We discuss how gut inflammation progresses to autoimmune diseases, the vagus nerve "elevator" connecting gut and brain (fight→constipation, flight→diarrhea), and practical tools like gratitude before meals and anti-inflammatory "fire extinguisher" foods that shift your microbiome with every meal.

Key Takeaways

- All autoimmunity begins in gut - SIBO/IBS are early warnings

- Dahlia's antibodies: 3,500+ to near-normal with food

- Location matters - test before taking probiotics

- Anti-inflammatory foods: antioxidants, omega-3s, vitamin D, fiber

- Vagus nerve connects gut-brain (fight→constipation, flight→diarrhea)

- Calm nervous system before eating: gratitude, mantras, breathwork

- Microbiome shifts with EVERY meal

- Taste buds change to crave healthier foods over time

- Repair barrier with protein, amino acids, gooey foods

- Ask food relationship before giving elimination diets

Chapters & Timestamps

02:00 Autoimmune & Gut Health Connection

04:00 Bloating to Autoimmune: The Timeline

05:00 Anti-Inflammatory "Fire Extinguisher" Foods

07:00 Location Matters: Don't Take Probiotics Blindly

09:00 Dahlia's Hashimoto's: 3,500+ to Normal

12:00 Vagus Nerve: The Gut-Brain Elevator

13:00 Fight/Flight/Freeze/Fawn & GI Symptoms

15:00 Sustaining Healthy Lifestyle

16:00 Microbiome Shifts with Every Meal

17:00 Married to Health Resources

Guest Details

James & Dahlia Marin, RD - Integrative Dietitians, Married to Health Founders

Credentials: Registered Dietitians specializing in SIBO, IBS & autoimmune disease. Dahlia: Hashimoto's survivor (antibodies less than 3,500 to near-normal).

Specializations: SIBO/IBS therapy, autoimmune nutrition, gut-brain connection, nervous system regulation, food relationship healing.

Philosophy: "Heal with each meal, feel with each meal" - every meal shifts microbiome toward healing or harm.

Connect with James & Dahlia Marin

Website: www.marriedtohealth.com (hub for all resources)

Social Media: @marriedtohealth (all platforms)

Services & Programs:

Private practice with 8+ specialized dietitians

Good Gut SIBO/IBS self-paced program

One-on-one nutrition sessions

eBooks & educational resources

Regenerative Nutrition & Gut Health Experience (October, Southern California in-person event)

Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM

Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University’s Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen.

Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy

AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex chronic conditions.

Hosted by Dr. Micah Yu, the show explores root causes like mold exposure, infections, and environmental toxins that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode features expert interviews and cutting-edge treatments to help listeners understand the "why" behind their illness and find pathways to healing.

Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy:

1. Website: MyautoimmunemdHome – New
2. Instagram: @myautoimmunemd
3. Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD
4. YouTube: @myautoimmunemd
5. Email: [email protected]

Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand mold's role in chronic illness, please leave a 5-star review!

This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or remediation. Individual results may vary.

Dr. Ni-Cheng Liang, a board-certified integrative pulmonologist, shares her journey of being diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer at age 31 during pulmonary critical care fellowship.

She combined clinical trials with acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, yoga, and Reiki to survive and thrive through five months of chemotherapy and three surgeries.

We explore how mindfulness (6,000+ published studies) changes stress response at the genetic level, her work supporting burned-out healthcare professionals through the Mindful Healthcare Collective, and evidence-based treatments for long COVID including graded exercise for POTS and post-exertional malaise.

1. Integrative (evidence-based) ≠ alternative (unproven/dangerous)
2. Mindfulness = present moment awareness without judgment
3. 6,000+ studies prove mindfulness works at genetic level
4. Long COVID is multi-systemic and underdiagnosed
5. Anti-inflammatory diet: 5-9 servings vegetables/fruits daily
6. Graded exercise for long COVID: 5 min recumbent, increase 1-2 min weekly
7. Avoid upright exercise with POTS/post-exertional malaise
8. Group movement in nature = community + exercise + healing
9. Chair yoga accessible for bedbound patients
10. Mindfulness practice: anytime, anywhere, doing anything

02:00 Integrative Modalities During Chemotherapy

04:00 Evidence-Based vs. Alternative Therapies

10:00 What Is Mindfulness? Science & Practice

14:00 Mindfulness Changes Stress at Genetic Level

18:00 Mindful Healthcare Collective & Burnout

21:00 Long COVID: Multi-System Effects

24:00 Anti-Inflammatory Diet & Movement

26:00 Dragon Boat Racing: Community Healing

30:00 Resources & Where to Find Dr. Liang

Dr. Ni-Cheng Liang, MD

Board-Certified Integrative Pulmonologist, Cancer Survivor & Mindfulness Teacher

Credentials:

1. Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine
2. Fellowship, University of Arizona Integrative Medicine
3. Former Executive Director, UCSD Center for Mindfulness
4. Co-Host, Healing Medicine Podcast
5. Founder, Mindful Healthcare Collective
6. 14+ year breast cancer survivor
7. Co-Captain, Team Survivor San Diego dragon boat team

Specializations: Long COVID, mindfulness-based stress reduction, asthma, COPD, cancer survivorship, healthcare burnout, graded exercise for POTS

Website: awakenbreath.org (free meditations)

Podcast: Healing Medicine Podcast

Practice: Coastal Pulmonary Associates (coastalpulmonaryassociates.com)

Serving: California telemedicine available

Free Resources:

1. UCSD Center for Mindfulness audio library
2. Mindful.org magazine
3. Silver Age Yoga (silverageyoga.org) - chair yoga

Dr. Micah Yu, DC, CFMP

Functional Medicine Practitioner & Host of AutoImmune Alchemy

Dr. Micah Yu is a doctor of chiropractic and certified functional medicine practitioner specializing in autoimmune conditions and chronic illness. He recognizes mold exposure as a common root cause of autoimmune disease, particularly in patients with long-haul COVID who suddenly develop mold sensitivities. Dr. Yu is passionate about educating his community on environmental toxins and bringing expert voices like John Banta to help patients understand the hidden triggers affecting their health. He practices integrative medicine with his wife, creating a dynamic team dedicated to uncovering root causes and supporting patients on their healing journey.

Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy

AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex chronic conditions.

Hosted by Dr. Micah Yu, the show explores root causes like mold exposure, infections, and environmental toxins that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode features expert interviews and cutting-edge treatments to help listeners understand the "why" behind their illness and find pathways to healing.

Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy:

1. Website: MyautoimmunemdHome – New
2. Instagram: @myautoimmunemd
3. Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD
4. YouTube: @myautoimmunemd
5. Email: [email protected]

Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand mold's role in chronic illness, please leave a 5-star review!

This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or remediation. Individual results may vary.

In this episode, I sit down with Maria Lloyd, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in trauma-informed therapy and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, to explore how unresolved trauma lives in the body and manifests as autoimmune disease, particularly in highly sensitive people (HSPs) who make up 20% of the population.

Maria shares her personal journey with her son's gut issues and mold exposure that led to complete dysfunction until they addressed both the physical detoxification and mental health trauma through ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, ultimately leading to his full healing and return to college.

We discuss how narcissistic relationships create constant fight-or-flight stress that directly impacts the nervous system and gut health, why turning toward pain with compassion (rather than running from it) calms both emotional and physical symptoms, and how creating secure attachments through therapy can rewire dysregulated nervous systems formed in childhood.

1. 20% of people are highly sensitive (HSPs) - understanding this trait reduces shame and helps create supportive lifestyles
2. Trauma lives in the body; turning toward pain with compassion calms both emotional and physical symptoms
3. Mold exposure can be like "pouring gasoline on the fire" for those with gut issues and mental health challenges
4. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy works at a somatic level, helping people reconnect with their bodies and feel safe
5. Early childhood attachment patterns affect nervous system regulation and autoimmune disease risk
6. Narcissistic relationships cause constant fight-or-flight stress that directly impacts gut health and autoimmunity
7. Health dramatically improves when people leave narcissistic relationships or set firm boundaries
8. Morning and evening routines (walking, yoga, Qigong, Tai Chi, breath work) create nervous system stability
9. Research shows Qigong and yoga reduce pain and flares in lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia
10. It's through relationships that we heal - secure attachments with therapists can rewire dysregulated nervous systems

Chapters & Timestamps

00:00 Welcome: Maria Lloyd & Trauma-Informed Therapy

02:00 Maria's Personal Journey: Her Son's Gut Issues & Mold Exposure

03:00 When the Medical System Failed: The Natural Health Journey

03:30 Mold Detoxification, Diet Changes & Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy

04:00 The Holistic Approach: Everything Is Connected

04:30 Navigating Pain Cycles & Hypervigilance in Autoimmune Flares

05:00 Trauma Lives in the Body: Turning Toward Pain with Compassion

06:00 Creating Secure Attachment with Ourselves

07:00 Attachment Styles & Their Impact on Nervous System Regulation

08:00 How Early Childhood Attachment Affects the Brain & Body

09:00 Two Autoimmune Phenotypes: Type A Perfectionists & Highly Sensitive People

10:00 What Are HSPs? 20% of People Are Highly Sensitive

11:00 HSPs Without Attachment: Mental Health & Autoimmune Disease

12:00 Reframing the Mindset: Creating Safety & Boundaries

12:30 Morning & Evening Routines: Walking, Yoga, Qigong, Tai Chi

13:00 Breath Work & Meditation for Autoimmune & Mental Health

13:30 Research on Qigong & Yoga Reducing Pain in Lupus, RA & Fibromyalgia

14:00 Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy: A Blowtorch for Getting Unstuck

15:00 Narcissistic Relationships: The Toxic Impact on the Nervous System

16:00 Gaslighting, Shame & Confusion: Setting Boundaries or Leaving

16:30 Health Improves When Leaving Narcissistic Relationships

17:00 Finding Maria: Website, Podcast & Resources

17:30 Closing Thoughts

Maria Lloyd, LMFT

Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Trauma Specialist

Credentials & Training:

1. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
2. Certified in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy
3. Trauma-informed therapy specialist
4. Attachment science & polyvagal theory expert
5. Somatic therapy practitioner

Specializations:

1. Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) and empaths
2. Trauma resolution and nervous system regulation
3. Narcissistic relationship dynamics (home and workplace)
4. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for trauma and autoimmune conditions
5. Attachment-based healing and secure attachment development
6. Somatic therapies for body-based trauma
7. Chronic pain and autoimmune disease with trauma component
8. Complex PTSD and dissociation

Host & Educator:

1. Host of "Catalyst for Healing" podcast
2. Focuses on innovative breakthroughs in mental health
3. Covers ketamine and emerging medicine research
4. Provides newest information on healing modalities

Personal Experience: Maria's journey into holistic health began when her son developed severe gut issues from birth that worsened dramatically after mold exposure in college, leaving him completely unable to function. After the medical system failed to help, she pursued naturopathic approaches including intensive mold detoxification, dietary changes, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for the mental health component. Her son's complete healing and return to thriving in college inspired her to integrate these holistic approaches into her therapy practice.

Clinical Approach: Maria emphasizes that trauma lives in the body and must be addressed somatically, not just cognitively. She helps clients turn toward pain with compassion rather than running from it through distraction or addiction. Her approach recognizes that 20% of people are highly sensitive (HSPs) and require different nervous system support than neurotypical individuals. She specializes in helping victims of narcissistic relationships understand the profound impact of constant gaslighting and fight-or-flight stress on physical health, often seeing dramatic health improvements when clients set boundaries or leave toxic relationships. Maria uses attachment science to help clients develop secure attachments with themselves and others, rewiring early childhood attachment wounds through therapeutic relationships.

Website: www.marialloyd.com

Podcast: Catalyst for Healing - www.catalystforhealing.com

Services:

1. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy
2. Trauma-informed individual therapy
3. Support for highly sensitive people and empaths
4. Narcissistic relationship recovery
5. Attachment-based healing

Podcast Topics:

1. Innovative breakthroughs in mental health
2. Ketamine and emerging medicine research
3. Latest healing modalities and treatment options
4. Expert interviews on cutting-edge therapies

Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM

Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University’s Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen.

Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy

AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex chronic conditions.

Hosted by Dr. Micah Yu, the show explores root causes like mold exposure, infections, and environmental toxins that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode features expert interviews and cutting-edge treatments to help listeners understand the "why" behind their illness and find pathways to healing.

Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy:

1. Website: MyautoimmunemdHome – New
2. Instagram: @myautoimmunemd
3. Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD
4. YouTube: @myautoimmunemd
5. Email: [email protected]

Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand mold's role in chronic illness, please leave a 5-star review!

This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or remediation. Individual results may vary.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Trisha Pasricha, a Harvard-trained gastroenterologist who directs the Gut-Brain Research Lab at Beth Israel, to reveal why IBS isn't "all in your head" and how specialized antibody testing can uncover autoimmune attacks on gut neurons. We explore the IBS-fibromyalgia overlap, why one in three people develop IBS after infections, and her groundbreaking research showing smartphone scrolling in bathrooms increases hemorrhoid risk by 46%.

Dr. Pasricha shares evidence-based treatments including peppermint oil and psyllium fiber while debunking probiotic myths, and explains why constipation may be an early Parkinson's warning sign. This conversation validates patients dismissed by doctors and proves these conditions have real pathology requiring collaborative care across specialties.

1. IBS is NOT "all in your head"—pathology lives in the deep enteric nervous system where standard tests can't reach
2. 90% of gut-brain communication flows UPWARD through the vagus nerve, not downward from stress
3. One in three people who get gastroenteritis will develop IBS from "scarring" of gut neurons
4. The Mayo Paraneoplastic Panel can detect autoimmune antibodies attacking gut neurons (specialized test)
5. Many IBS patients also have fibromyalgia—treatments often overlap (SNRIs, peppermint oil, fiber)
6. Psyllium fiber (25g women, 38g men daily) works for BOTH constipation and diarrhea—it's a "shapeshifter"
7. Probiotics are NOT recommended by gastroenterology guidelines—feed your microbiome with fiber and fermented foods instead
8. Smartphone scrolling in the bathroom increases hemorrhoid risk by 46%—limit to 5 minutes maximum
9. Constipation may be an early Parkinson's warning sign—the disease likely begins in the gut
10. H. pylori is abnormally prevalent in Parkinson's patients and treating it can improve tremors by enhancing levodopa absorption

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Trisha Pasricha & Gut-Brain Research

02:00 What Is IBS & Why It's Not "All in Your Head"

04:00 The Enteric Nervous System: Our "Second Brain"

07:00 The Autoimmune Connection to IBS

10:00 IBS-Fibromyalgia Overlap & Treatment Crossover

13:00 Mayo Paraneoplastic Panel: Testing for Autoimmune IBS

16:00 Getting Second Opinions & Finding Neuro-GI Specialists

19:00 Social Media Education: Benefits & Rabbit Holes

21:00 Evidence-Based Treatments: Peppermint Oil & Psyllium Fiber

26:00 The Truth About Probiotics: Not Recommended

29:00 Fiber Diversity & the Mediterranean Diet Connection

33:00 Groundbreaking Research: Smartphones & Hemorrhoids (46% Risk)

36:00 Parkinson's Disease Begins in the Gut

38:00 The GI-Neuro Parkinson's Clinic Model

42:00 H. Pylori Connection to Parkinson's & Rheumatic Diseases

45:00 Post-Infectious IBS & Reactive Arthritis Parallels

47:00 Dr. Pasricha's Book & Where to Find Her

Dr. Trisha S. Pasricha, MD

Board-Certified Gastroenterologist & Neuro-GI Specialist

Credentials & Training:

1. Board Certified in Gastroenterology
2. Harvard Medical School trained
3. Johns Hopkins trained
4. Fellowship in Neuro-Gastroenterology (Gut-Brain Connection & Motility)
5. Director of Gut-Brain Research Lab at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston
6. Medical Columnist, The Washington Post (weekly Monday column)

Research & Publications:

1. Published in New England Journal of Medicine, JAMA, Nature Reviews
2. Leading research on IBS, gut-brain axis, and Parkinson's disease gut origins
3. Groundbreaking studies on smartphone use and GI health
4. Expert in autoimmune causes of GI motility disorders

Specializations:

1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and its autoimmune etiologies
2. Neuro-gastroenterology and enteric nervous system disorders
3. Gut-brain connection and vagus nerve communication
4. Parkinson's disease gastrointestinal manifestations
5. Gastroparesis and GI motility disorders
6. Fibromyalgia-IBS overlap syndrome
7. Post-infectious IBS and reactive gut disorders
8. Joint hypermobility syndromes with GI involvement
9. Interdisciplinary care for complex patients

Author: "You've Been Pooping All Wrong" (Release date: April 7, 2026)

Clinical Philosophy: Dr. Pasricha is passionate about validating patients who've been dismissed with "it's all in your head" and proving that IBS and related conditions have real, measurable pathology in the deep layers of gut tissue that standard tests can't reach. She emphasizes that 90% of gut-brain communication flows upward from the gut through the vagus nerve, not downward from stress, and she takes exhaustive patient histories to uncover triggers like infections, autoimmune connections, or trauma. She strongly advocates for second opinions, encourages social media education (with medical guidance), and believes in treating pain at both the peripheral (gut) and central (brain) levels while being transparent about why certain medications like SNRIs work for pain independent of mental health. Her research lab is pioneering work on how Parkinson's disease may begin in the gut years before motor symptoms appear, and she runs an innovative interdisciplinary clinic with neurologists to treat the whole patient.

Instagram: @trishapasrichamd

Column: The Washington Post (Mondays)

Book: "You've Been Pooping All Wrong" (Available April 7, 2026)

Practice: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA

Note: Due to high demand, securing an appointment may be challenging. Dr. Pasricha recommends finding a neuro-gastroenterologist or motility specialist closer to home who can partner with you on your care journey.

Dr. Micah Yu, DC, CFMP

Functional Medicine Practitioner & Host of AutoImmune Alchemy

Dr. Micah Yu is a doctor of chiropractic and certified functional medicine practitioner specializing in autoimmune conditions and chronic illness. He recognizes mold exposure as a common root cause of autoimmune disease, particularly in patients with long-haul COVID who suddenly develop mold sensitivities. Dr. Yu is passionate about educating his community on environmental toxins and bringing expert voices like John Banta to help patients understand the hidden triggers affecting their health. He practices integrative medicine with his wife, creating a dynamic team dedicated to uncovering root causes and supporting patients on their healing journey.

Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy

AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex chronic conditions.

Hosted by Dr. Micah Yu, the show explores root causes like mold exposure, infections, and environmental toxins that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode features expert interviews and cutting-edge treatments to help listeners understand the "why" behind their illness and find pathways to healing.

Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy:

1. Website: MyautoimmunemdHome – New
2. Instagram: @myautoimmunemd
3. Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD
4. YouTube: @myautoimmunemd
5. Email: [email protected]

Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand mold's role in chronic illness, please leave a 5-star review!

This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or remediation. Individual results may vary.

In this episode, Dr. Melissa Mondala sits down with Dr. Felice Gersh, an integrative OB-GYN, to explore why 80% of all autoimmune patients are women and how our two X chromosomes create a more robust immune system that can become overactive when hormones become imbalanced.

Dr. Gersh explains the fascinating connection between leaky gut, hormonal dysfunction (PCOS, amenorrhea, menopause), and autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto's and rheumatoid arthritis, revealing how molecular mimicry causes antibodies against gut bacteria to cross-react with our own tissues.

They discuss why rheumatologists often miss the root cause by only prescribing biologics that block immune responses without addressing leaky gut and hormone imbalances, and how early intervention with nutrition, stress management, sleep, and hormone balancing can reverse positive ANA antibodies and prevent full-blown autoimmune disease

1. 80% of all autoimmune patients are female due to two X chromosomes with immune-related genes
2. 15% of genes on the "turned off" X chromosome stay active forever—almost all are immune-related
3. Women make more antibodies, have higher white blood cell counts, and mount stronger immune responses
4. Every woman with hormonal dysfunction (PCOS, amenorrhea, menopause) develops gut dysbiosis
5. Leaky gut allows bacteria and toxins to escape, triggering antibody production through molecular mimicry
6. Rheumatoid arthritis is linked to specific gut bacteria leaking through the intestinal barrier
7. Biologics (Humira, Remicade) only block symptoms; they don't fix leaky gut or hormone imbalances
8. Positive ANA = pre-autoimmunity = leaky gut—early intervention can reverse it
9. Vegan diet high in fiber and polyphenols can reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain by 50% in one month
10. Hormone balancing, gut repair, stress management, and nutrition work synergistically—it's all of the above

01:00 Introduction: Dr. Felice Gersh on Women & Autoimmune Disease

01:30 Why Women Have More Robust Immune Systems

02:00 The Two X Chromosomes & Immune-Related Genes

02:30 15% of X Chromosome Genes Stay Active Forever

03:00 Women Make More Antibodies & Have Higher White Blood Counts

04:00 Estradiol & Progesterone's Role in Immune Function

04:30 Leaky Gut, Endotoxins & Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissue

05:00 PCOS, Amenorrhea & Menopause Always Cause Gut Dysbiosis

06:00 Molecular Mimicry: How Antibodies Attack Your Own Organs

06:30 Hashimoto's: The Most Common Autoimmune Disease in Women

07:00 Rheumatoid Arthritis Linked to Specific Gut Bacteria

08:00 Every Woman with Autoimmune Disease Has Leaky Gut

08:30 Biologics Block Symptoms, Not Root Causes

09:00 The Integrative Approach: Hormones, Gut & Low Dose Naltrexone

09:30 High Cortisol from Stress Causes Leaky Gut

10:00 Fiber, Polyphenols & Nurturing Your Gut Microbiome

10:30 Why Biologics Stop Working After 2-4 Years

11:00 Pre-Autoimmunity: Positive ANA Without Disease Yet

11:30 Reversing Early-Stage Autoimmune Disease

12:00 Terry Wahls: Reversing MS Through Diet & Gut Healing

12:30 Hormone Balancing at Every Life Stage

13:00 Vegan Diet Reduces RA Pain by 50% in One Month

13:30 It's All of the Above: Diet, Hormones & Lifestyle Combined

14:00 Where to Find Dr. Gersh: YouTube, Instagram & Her Practice

15:00 Closing & Resources

Dr. Felice Gersh, MD, FACOG

Integrative OB-GYN & Women's Health Expert

Credentials & Training:

1. Board-certified OB-GYN (FACOG)
2. Fellowship-trained in Integrative Medicine
3. Combines traditional obstetrics/gynecology with functional and metabolic medicine
4. Practices at Integrative Medical Group of Irvine, California

Specializations:

1. Women's hormonal health across all life stages
2. Autoimmune disease prevention and reversal in women
3. Leaky gut and gut microbiome restoration
4. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
5. Menopause and hormone replacement therapy
6. Integrative approaches to rheumatoid arthritis and Hashimoto's
7. Pre-autoimmunity intervention (positive ANA)
8. Lifestyle medicine for chronic disease reversal

Author & Educator:

1. Multiple published books on women's health
2. Active YouTube channel with educational content
3. Strong Instagram presence (@felicegershmd)
4. International speaker on women's health and autoimmunity

Clinical Approach: Dr. Gersh practices "old-fashioned" one-on-one patient care while educating people worldwide through social media platforms. She emphasizes that women's immune systems are fundamentally different from men's due to the X chromosome's immune-related genes, making women more susceptible to autoimmune diseases when hormones become imbalanced. Her approach addresses root causes—leaky gut, gut dysbiosis, hormonal imbalances, stress, sleep, and nutrition—rather than just suppressing immune responses with biologics. She believes in proactive intervention at the pre-autoimmunity stage (positive ANA) and has successfully reversed early-stage autoimmune diseases through comprehensive lifestyle and hormonal optimization.

Practice: Integrative Medical Group of Irvine

Location: Irvine, California

Social Media:

Instagram: @felicegershmd

YouTube: @FeliceGershMD (active educational channel)

Website: https://integrativemgi.com/

Services:

1. One-on-one patient consultations
2. Educational content on women's health and autoimmunity
3. Resources and freebies available through her platforms

Dr. Micah Yu, DC, CFMP

Functional Medicine Practitioner & Host of AutoImmune Alchemy

Dr. Micah Yu is a doctor of chiropractic and certified functional medicine practitioner specializing in autoimmune conditions and chronic illness. He recognizes mold exposure as a common root cause of autoimmune disease, particularly in patients with long-haul COVID who suddenly develop mold sensitivities. Dr. Yu is passionate about educating his community on environmental toxins and bringing expert voices like John Banta to help patients understand the hidden triggers affecting their health. He practices integrative medicine with his wife, creating a dynamic team dedicated to uncovering root causes and supporting patients on their healing journey.

Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy

AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex chronic conditions.

Hosted by Dr. Micah Yu, the show explores root causes like mold exposure, infections, and environmental toxins that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode features expert interviews and cutting-edge treatments to help listeners understand the "why" behind their illness and find pathways to healing.

Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy:

1. Website: MyautoimmunemdHome – New
2. Instagram: @myautoimmunemd
3. Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD
4. YouTube: @myautoimmunemd
5. Email: [email protected]

Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand mold's role in chronic illness, please leave a 5-star review!

This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or remediation. Individual results may vary.

In this episode, I sat down with John Banta, a retired certified industrial hygienist with over 35 years of experience, who discovered mold was destroying his wife's health after she recovered completely during a camping trip, leading him to dedicate his career to becoming a "mold doctor" for buildings.

John reveals how 1 in 5 brand new homes has mold before occupation, why killing mold actually makes it produce more biotoxins as a defense mechanism, and his revolutionary microfiber and soapy water technique that actually removes mold instead of spreading it.

We discuss the connection between mold exposure and autoimmune conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue, how COVID-19 can trigger mold sensitivity in 24% of the population with HLA-positive genetics, and his groundbreaking pathways testing method to find hidden mold using peptide bonds.

1. If you smell mold, it's actively growing - mold only produces musty odors when wet
2. 1 in 5 brand new homes has mold before occupation due to construction practices
3. You can't see mold until there are 1-10 million colony-forming units per square inch
4. Never kill mold - it fights back by producing more biotoxins as a defense mechanism
5. Soapy water (5 drops detergent in a quart) + microfiber cloths remove mold effectively
6. Vinegar doesn't work because "oil and vinegar don't mix" - you need detergent to emulsify lipids
7. 24% of people have HLA-positive genetics; COVID-19 can trigger mold sensitivity overnight
8. Concrete slabs take almost a year to lose 90% of moisture - premature building causes mold
9. Dead mold still makes you sick - removal is essential, not just killing it
10. An ounce of prevention: catching mold early can save $45,000+ in remediation costs

00:00 Opening Teaser & Introduction to John Banta

02:00 Where Mold Is Found: Beneficial Uses & Hidden Dangers

03:00 John's Personal Journey: His Wife's Mystery Illness

04:00 The Camping Trip That Changed Everything

05:00 It's Always About the Water

07:00 Mold Syndrome: Why Symptoms Vary So Much

10:00 Medical Schools Don't Teach About Mold & Autoimmunity

12:00 The Lead Poisoning Story & Daughter's Miracle

17:00 How to Determine If Your Home Has Mold

19:00 Clean Room Technology & Microfiber Innovation

23:00 Why Vinegar Doesn't Work & Soapy Water Does

25:00 Never Kill Mold: It Fights Back with Biotoxins

27:00 Hidden Wall Damage: The 32-Foot Leak Case

29:00 1 in 5 New Homes Have Mold Before Occupation

31:00 Concrete Slabs & the Year-Long Drying Problem

34:00 COVID-19 Triggers Mold Sensitivity in 24% of People

37:00 The Seared Steak Problem: Why Dehumidifiers Aren't Enough

40:00 Finding the Right Remediation Company

43:00 The $50,000 Foundation Mistake: Catch It Early

47:00 Mold Controlled Book: 25-Step Program Overview

49:00 Pathways Testing: Finding Hidden Mold with Peptide Bonds

53:00 John's COVID Fixer-Upper Experience

56:00 How COVID Triggered John's Own Mold Illness

58:00 Hope for the Medical Community

59:00 Where to Find John's Book & Consultations

John Banta, CIH (Retired)

Certified Industrial Hygienist & Mold/Water Damage Specialist

Credentials & Experience:

- Over 35 years of experience in indoor environmental consulting

- Retired Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)

- Former medical research technician at UC Davis (FDA-certified in good laboratory practices)

- Degree in Environmental Health Sciences

- Mentored studies with East Coast mold experts (New Jersey, Philadelphia)

- Specialized training in water damage, radon, lead, asbestos, and toxic chemicals

- 25+ years as a dedicated mold and water damage specialist

Specializations:

- Water damage assessment and effective drying protocols

- Hidden mold detection in residential and commercial buildings

- Pathways testing using peptide bonds and proteins

- Mold-sensitive patient advocacy (HLA-positive individuals)

- Construction defect analysis (1 in 5 new homes)

- Microfiber cleaning technology for mold removal

- Next-generation sequencing for mold identification

- Post-COVID mold illness recognition and treatment

Author:

"Mold Controlled: Finding, Fixing and Preventing Mold Problems in Buildings" (385 pages)

- 25-step, 5-stage program for homeowners

- 35 years of experience condensed into practical guidance

- Personal stories including his wife's illness and his own COVID-triggered mold sensitivity

- "Essentials boxes" for quick scanning of key information

- Turns readers into their own best expert about their home

Clinical Approach:

John is a self-described "mold doctor for buildings, not people," though he works extensively with medically sensitive patients. His approach recognizes that 24% of the population has HLA-positive genetics that can be triggered by events like COVID-19, leading to mold sensitivity. He emphasizes that killing mold makes it produce more biotoxins as a defense mechanism, and instead advocates for physical removal using soapy water and microfiber technology. John developed the innovative "pathways testing" method to detect hidden mold by measuring peptide bonds and proteins, and consults with patients worldwide through telephone consultations averaging 3-4 hours daily.

Author Website: www.johnbanta.com

Consulting: www.restconenviro.com

Book: "Mold Controlled" - Available wherever books are sold

Services:

- Telephone consultations (3-4 hours daily)

- Pathways testing kits for hidden mold detection

- Educational resources for homeowners and practitioners

- Building assessment and remediation guidance

Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP

Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out.

Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM

Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University’s Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen.

Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy

AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex chronic conditions.

The show explores root causes like mold exposure, infections, and environmental toxins that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode features expert interviews and cutting-edge treatments to help listeners understand the "why" behind their illness and find pathways to healing.

Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy:

1. Website: MyautoimmunemdHome – New
2. Instagram: @myautoimmunemd
3. Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD
4. YouTube: @myautoimmunemd
5. Email: [email protected]

Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand mold's role in chronic illness, please leave a 5-star review!

This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or remediation. Individual results may vary.

In this episode, Dr. Melissa Mondala sits down with Dr. Sam Ko, board-certified emergency medicine physician and medical director at Reset Ketamine, to explore how ketamine therapy is helping the 50-70% of autoimmune patients struggling with depression, anxiety, and chronic pain.

They discuss how ketamine resets hypersensitized pain receptors, reduces inflammatory markers like TNF-alpha and IL-6, influences the gut-brain connection, and provides real hope for conditions like fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, MCAS, and POTS.

Dr. Ko shares success stories, introduces Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) as a complementary treatment, and reminds us that your struggle is real and there are evidence-based tools to help you reclaim functional living.

1. 50-70% of autoimmune patients experience depression, anxiety, and central sensitization - there's a fascinating connection between autoimmune conditions and mood disorders
2. Ketamine resets hypersensitized pain receptors via NMDA receptors down the spinal cord, making it powerful for central sensitization
3. The central nervous system and enteric nervous system share the same embryological origin (neuro crest), explaining the profound gut-brain connection
4. Ketamine influences the gut microbiome, which in turn affects the central nervous system and mood
5. Extended infusion protocols (80 minutes to 4 hours) are used for chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia
6. Ketamine reduces inflammatory markers including TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-10, helping to "turn down the volume" on overactive immune systems
7. Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) provides a "hardware reset" for the sympathetic nervous system, complementing ketamine's "software reset"
8. Success is measured in functional improvements - getting out of bed, doing hobbies, walking 5 minutes daily - not running marathons
9. Team-based care is essential, especially for patients on biologics and immunosuppressants - collaboration with rheumatologists and primary care is key
10. Your struggle is real, your body is wise - if a provider doesn't listen, find one who will

00:00 Introduction: Ketamine for Autoimmune Depression, Anxiety & Pain

00:30 The Autoimmune-Mental Health Link: Why 50-70% Experience Both

01:00 Central Sensitization: Resetting Hypersensitized Pain Receptors via NMDA

02:30 Ketamine Beyond the ER: Treating MCAS, POTS & Complex Autoimmune Conditions

03:00 The Gut-Brain Connection: Embryology of Central & Enteric Nervous Systems

04:00 Serotonin in Gut & Brain: Why "Trust Your Gut" Is Literally True

04:30 How Ketamine Influences the Gut Microbiome & Central Nervous System

06:00 Success Stories: Fibromyalgia & Extended Infusion Protocols

07:00 Rheumatoid Arthritis: Visible Reduction in Joint Inflammation

07:30 Reducing Inflammatory Markers: TNF-alpha, IL-6, IL-10

08:30 Mind-Body Connection: Breaking the Cycle of Pain & Rumination

09:30 Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB): Software vs Hardware Reset

11:00 Addressing Autoimmune Fatigue: Realistic Functional Improvements

12:00 The Power of 1%: Micro-Habits & 5-Minute Daily Walks

13:00 What to Expect: Consultations & Finding the Right Fit

14:00 Team-Based Care: Working with Rheumatologists on Biologics

14:30 Safety Protocols: Lab Monitoring & Continuous Vital Signs

16:00 Never Too Early or Late: Hope for Mental Health Struggles

16:30 Validation: Your Struggle Is Real, Trust Your Body

17:30 Finding Providers Who Listen & Building Your Support Team

18:00 Connect with Reset Ketamine & Final Thoughts

This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Individual results may vary.

Dr. Sam Ko, MD Board Certified Emergency Medicine Physician & Medical Director at Reset Ketamine

Credentials & Training:

1. Board Certified in Emergency Medicine
2. Medical school training in embryology and the biopsychosocial paradigm
3. Extensive experience in IV ketamine administration in ER settings
4. Specialized training in ketamine therapy for mental health and chronic pain
5. Certified in Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) procedures

Specializations:

1. IV Ketamine therapy for autoimmune-related depression, anxiety, and PTSD
2. Central sensitization and neuropathic pain syndromes
3. Fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis treatment
4. MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome) and POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome)
5. Treatment-resistant mental health conditions in autoimmune patients
6. Stellate Ganglion Block for sympathetic nervous system reset
7. Integrative approach to gut-brain-immune axis dysfunction

Clinical Approach: Dr. Ko founded Reset Ketamine with the mission to provide evidence-based ketamine therapy specifically for patients with complex autoimmune conditions who experience overlapping mental health and pain symptoms. His approach recognizes the intimate mind-body connection and addresses both the "software" (neurological patterns through ketamine) and "hardware" (nervous system through SGB) aspects of healing. He emphasizes team-based care, working collaboratively with rheumatologists and primary care physicians to ensure safe, comprehensive treatment for patients on biologics and immunosuppressants. Dr. Ko works alongside his wife and partner, Dr. Kim, who handles social media and patient education, creating a family-centered practice dedicated to spreading knowledge about innovative treatment options.

Website: www.resetketamine.com

Location: Palm Springs, California

Social Media:

1. Instagram: @resetketamine
2. YouTube: Reset Ketamine (500+ educational videos)
3. LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/samkomdmba
4. TikTok: @resetketamine
5. Twitter: @resetketamine
6. Pinterest: Reset Ketamine

Dr. Micah Yu, DC, CFMP

Functional Medicine Practitioner & Co-Host of AutoImmune Alchemy

Dr. Micah Yu is a doctor of chiropractic and certified functional medicine practitioner specializing in autoimmune conditions. Alongside his wife Dr. Melissa Mondala, he co-hosts the AutoImmune Alchemy podcast where they blend science with soul to help patients navigate complex autoimmune journeys. Dr. Yu is passionate about integrative approaches to healing and bringing expert voices to the autoimmune community.

Dr. Melissa Mondala

Co-Host of AutoImmune Alchemy

Dr. Melissa Mondala co-hosts AutoImmune Alchemy with her husband Dr. Micah Yu, creating a dynamic duo dedicated to supporting patients and families dealing with autoimmune disease. Together, they work as a team to normalize symptoms, create safe spaces for healing, and bring experienced experts in integrative and functional medicine to their community.

Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy

AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Micah Yu and Dr. Melissa Mondala, the show features expert interviews, discusses cutting-edge treatments, and normalizes the very real symptoms that 50-70% of autoimmune patients experience, including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and fatigue.

Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy:

1. Website: https://myautoimmunemd.com/
2. Instagram: @myautoimmunemd
3. Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD
4. YouTube: @myautoimmunemd
5. Email: [email protected]

Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode resonated with you, please leave a 5-star review to help us reach more people in the autoimmune community!

In Part 2 of this Autoimmune Alchemy conversation, Dr.

Micah Yu is joined again by Dr. Robin Rose — family medicine physician, peptide specialist, and kidney health educator — to move from awareness into actionable healing strategies.

This episode dives deep into peptides, bio-regulator therapies, and lifestyle foundations that support kidney repair in autoimmune disease. Dr. Rose explains how autoimmune inflammation damages kidney tubules, blood vessels, and mitochondria, and how targeted tools can help reverse epigenetic injury rather than simply slow decline.

TimeStamps

[0:00] — Part 2 Kickoff: Strategies, Peptides & Bio-Regulators

[1:00] — “Renal Vulnerability Syndrome”: Autoimmune Impact on Kidneys (Quick Review)

[3:00] — Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Kidney Protection: Polyphenols, Herbs, Teas, Toxins

[9:00] — Protein, Carnivore Diets & Why Kidney Nutrition Must Be Personalized

[12:00] — Sugar, Glycotoxins, Gluten/Grains & Practical Kidney-Friendly Protein Choices

[19:00] — Peptides vs Bio-Regulators: What They Are + Epigenetics Explained

[28:00] — Core Support Stack: Nutrients, Sleep/Circadian (Pineal), Carnosine + Clean Labels

[35:00] — Best Peptides/Bio-Regulators for CKD & Autoimmunity + Sequencing + Wrap/Resources

[45:00] — Where to Find Dr. Rose + Closing

Key Takeaways

1. Understand how autoimmune inflammation creates “renal vulnerability syndrome,” quietly damaging kidney tubules and mitochondria.
2. Discover why kidney decline is largely an epigenetic injury — and how that means it can be modulated and improved.
3. Learn the difference between peptides and bio-regulators, and why bio-regulators can directly influence gene expression.
4. Explore anti-inflammatory nutrition strategies that protect kidneys, including polyphenols, herbs, teas, and cooking methods.

In Part 2, Dr. Robin Rose reframes kidney disease not as a fixed diagnosis, but as a dynamic, modifiable process shaped by immune signaling, epigenetics, lifestyle, and targeted therapies. By combining peptides, bio-regulators, nutrition, and mindset, she offers a compassionate and science-based approach to healing that empowers patients rather than frightening them. This episode reminds us that recovery is not about perfection — it’s about informed, consistent choices that restore balance over time.