Dr. Fabian is a leading expert on the role of the microbiome in health, immune function, chronic disease, and aging. As a translational scientist, his primary focus is on the clinical application of microbiome research in the integrative and functional medicine space. He received his PhD in molecular biology from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and has worked as a biomedical researcher in the biotechnology industry, and more recently, as a consultant in the microbiome testing field. Currently, Dr. Fabian serves as a translational science consultant and science advisor with Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory, and he is also a Science Advisory Board member with Designs for Health. He is also certified as a Nutrition Therapy Practitioner by the Nutrition Therapy Institute in Denver.

Together Dr. Fabian and I discuss the essential role of the microbiome in gut health, food sensitivities, histamine intolerance, and more. He shares a variety of clinical pearls regarding histamine-producing microbes, short-chain fatty acids, and digestive enzymes, and addresses the prevalence of parasites in the general population.  Dr. Tom offers encouraging insights and practical recommendations for anyone who is looking for ways to heal their gut and maximize their microbiome.

I’m your host, Evelyne Lambrecht, thank you for designing a well world with us.

Key Takeaways:

[2:07] Tom shares how he became interested in the microbiome and a snapshot of a regular day as a translational science consultant.

[6:52] The role of the microbiome and specific microbes in food sensitivities and common food reactions.

[15:49] Oral tolerance and key distinguishers between and mass cell and histamine activation.

[18:44] The role of good bacteria in interacting with the species that produce histamine.

[23:15] Overgrowths of histamine-producing microbes are commonly found in patients with food reactions.

[27:35] Delimitation factors for recommendations for digestive enzymes and recommendations for taking supplemental DAO.

[29:30] The likelihood of achieving perfect gut health after testing and treatments.

[30:51] Clinical pearls regarding indicators in major short-chain fatty acids.

[34:14] Considerations for major histamine-producing intolerances that are not accompanied by gut-related symptoms.

[37:22] Insights into repairing and regenerating the gut barrier and protocol recommendations.

[43:01] Dr. Tom’s antimicrobial duration and cycling factors and recommendations.

[47:45] General prevalence of parasite testing, measurements, and treatments.

[50:30] Findings and recommendations from low FODMAP diet studies.

[58:22] Dr. Tom’s evolving health mindset, his favorite personal supplements, and preferred health practices.

Episode Resources:

Dr. Tom Fabian

Design for Health Resources:

Designs for Health

Blog: Histamine Intolerance and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Any Connection?

Blog: Recent Review Explores Relationship Between Gut Microbiome Integrity and Healthy Aging

Blog: Recent Review Explores Potential Relationship Between Food Allergy and the Gut Microbiome

Blog: Recent Review Explores Relationship Between the Gut Microbiome and Certain Neurodegenerative Diseases

Blog: Recent Review Explores Potential Connection Between Oral Microbiome and The Immune System

Blog: Recent Review Investigates Potential Link Between Cardiovascular Health, Inflammation, and the Gut Microbiome

Webinar: Phytochemicals-Keys to Optimizing Microbiome and Mucosal Health with Dr. Tom Fabian

Visit the Designs for Health Research and Education Library which houses medical journals, protocols, webinars, and our blog.

Dr. Elana Roumell is a pediatric naturopathic doctor and mom of 3 with a mission to teach moms how to safely be a Doctor Mom. She teaches parents how to transform their fear, panic and overwhelm when their child is sick into feeling calm, competent, and confident to prevent illness and treat sickness wisely. She is the founder of The Doctor Mom membership with over a thousand members and host of The Doctor Mom podcast, and with almost 2 million downloads she has helped inspire moms around the world. 

This episode of Designs for Health focuses on children’s health with a special focus on GI and immune health. Together we discuss the insights into the body that can be gained from childhood illnesses and the importance of sickness in developing a strong immune system. Elana shares her recommendations for gut health testing and probiotic usage and offers her advice to parents who are feeling overwhelmed and stressed by the compounding environmental toxins and genetic factors that seem to be working against children’s health. Parents and practitioners alike will be encouraged by her perspective and wisdom. 

I’m your host, Evelyne Lambrecht, thank you for designing a well world with us.

Key Takeaways:

[2:10] Dr. Elana’s journey to pediatric-focused naturopathic medicine started with a family tragedy. 

[4:18] Common concerns and anxiety-provoking topics that Elana regularly addresses including vaccines, eczema, constipation and frequent illness. 

[6:06] What parents should considered a ‘normal’ frequency of illnesses and why being sick is not a bad thing. 

[9:07] Elana’s 3-pronged approach to and recommendations for treating less severe illnesses. 

[11:44] Vitamin D, DHA and EPA in fish oil and probiotics dosing recommendations for children. 

[18:01] Recent gut testing in children shows that mold toxicity and other environmental factors continue to be a threat to children’s health. 

[21:34] Recommendations for gut health testing in children are based on the severity of symptoms and parental compliance – Elana shares her standard protocol. 

[26:44] Probiotic recommendations for the times when antibiotics need to be taken. 

[29:41] Tactics for dealing with picky eaters when improving gut health. 

[33:30] Eczema insights, considerations and recommendations. 

[38:09] Mold toxicity and genetic susceptibility and indicators that suggest testing for mycotoxins. 

[41:06] The value of herbal medicine in treating hyperactivity and lack of focus in children. 

[43:35] The powerful benefits of limiting screetime and social media during childhood. 

[47:01] Elana’s transition from in-person practicing to online practicing – ‘I’m living my dream’. 

[53:17] Elana’s healthful parenting mindset has shifted over the years, her personal favorite health practices and supplements, and the adaptogens she takes as a nursing mom. 

Episode Resources:

Dr. Elana Roumell

The Doctor Mom Membership

Design for Health Resources:

Designs for Health

Blog: Staying Up-to-Date on Probiotics for Pediatric Health

Blog: Probiotics and Children’s Gut Health

Blog: Recent Review Explores the Impact of Vitamin D Deficiencies in Children

Blog: Recent Study Investigates Potential Correlation Between Vitamin D Status and Bone Fracture Risk in Pediatric Populations

Blog: Research Study Explores the Effects of Supplementation with Omega-3 on Behavioral Health in Preschool-aged Children

Blog: The Latest on PUFAs and the Pediatric Allergic Response

Webinar: Children's Digestive Care: The Role of the Gut and Microbiome in Pediatric Health & Disease

Lindsey Wells – Managing Pediatric Post-Infectious Syndromes, including PANS and PANDAS

Visit the Designs for Health Research and Education Library which houses medical journals, protocols, webinars, and our blog.

Dr. Brandy Zachary is a powerful and unique functional medicine teacher and award-winning practice owner. She has taken functional practices from zero to $1.8 million in mere months and has worked with thousands of health entrepreneurs on their branding, marketing, sales, speaking, clinical and practice strategies. Dr. Z helps practitioners grow 6 and 7 figure business and is passionate about the business of health and rapid practice growth. 

This episode of Designs for Health shifts gears away from the clinical side to all things business. Together we explore the common problems that overworked, under compensated health practice owners face and the strategies that will help them develop a better business.  We discuss essential business growth practices, including effective marketing, building a better team and her recommended business tools. Dr. Z is on a mission to help burnt-out practitioners improve their quality of life, consider their own needs and long-term future first, and craft a  practice that they are excited to continue working in for years to come. 

I’m your host, Evelyne Lambrecht, thank you for designing a well world with us.

Key Takeaways:

[2:10] Dr. Z’s transition into functional medicine and a health practice consultation business that she directs from Mexico. 

[5:52] Tactics for rapid business growth including teaching and sharing content with others. 

[7:11] Essential business growth practices include effective marketing, an attractive offer and fulfillment. 

[9:15] Ideas for improving communication and engaging clientele at in-person events. 

[10:22] Dr. Z’s Practice Plan and mentorship models help practitioners focus on their long-term plan. 

[15:35] Bringing on additional practitioners is not the only answer to creating a dream practice.

[17:08] First steps to move away from the daily grind that burns out so many health professionals.

[19:38] Strategies for forging effective collaborations between health practitioners and nutritionists and health coaches. 

[24:00] The importance of maintaining a health license even after leaning into health coaching. 

[27:56] Best practices for creating successful ads in today’s today’s saturated marketing world. 

[33:16] No cost consults are sales calls that will increase interest, but may not be the best route to generate business.  

[37:11] Tactics for reconciling the high costs associated with dedicated care with the desire to help as many patients as possible.

[45:32] Dr. Z’s top tools for enhancing your functional medicine business and bringing the right people onto your team. 

[54:12] How to connect with Dr. Z. 

[55:10] The business tools that Dr. Z has changed her mind about using in recent years, her favorite supplements and preferred health practices. 

Episode Resources:

Dr. Brandy Zachary

The Practice Plan

The Dr. Z Academy

Design for Health Resources:

Designs for Health

Dietary Supplement Specialist Certification Program

Designs for Health Spotlight Functional Testing eLearning

How Dr. Brandy Zachary Reinvented her Functional Medicine Practice Online

Educational Webinar: Our Nutrition and Weight Loss Practice - "The Chemistry of Food" with Dr. Brandy Zachary

Visit the Designs for Health Research and Education Library which houses medical journals, protocols, webinars, and our blog.

Dr. Chris D’Adamo is an epidemiologist with expertise in the synergistic effects of healthy lifestyles, environmental exposures, and genetics on human health and wellness. He received his PhD in epidemiology, is the Director of the Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, and is on the Scientific Advisory Board at Designs for Health. 

Together we explore key differences in clinical trials in the pharma and natural product spaces, the benefits of third-party testing, and the many challenges of getting natural product studies approved.  Dr. Chris highlights his preferred supplements and lifestyle practices, offers advice to help practitioners guide their patients in supplement usage, and details the underrated, research-identified supplements that should be implemented in more diets for optimal health. 

I’m your host, Evelyne Lambrecht, thank you for designing a well world with us.

Key Takeaways:

[1:20] The current state and challenges of natural products research.

[3:00] Common hurdles to getting studies approved by the Institutional Review Board.

[4:36] The impact of the Dietary Health and Supplementation Act (DSHEA) on identifying supplements as regulated food, not drugs.

[5:15] Key differences between clinical trials in pharma and the natural product space.

[6:55] Funding studies and the standard cost of IND trials.

[8:26] Tactics for more effectively evaluating the findings of clinical trials.

[11:00] Accounting for the genetic and dietary factors that affect the whole health of patients in research.

[13:07] Chris shares advice for practitioner considerations when choosing a dietary supplement.

[14:36] Resources for practitioners to help patients make informed decisions about supplement usage.

[16:32] Top underrated supplements based on research that has demonstrated effectiveness.

[21:44] Major nutrient deficiencies that are commonly identified in the research include Vitamin D and magnesium.

[23:17] Reasons that doctors and insurance have stopped covering Vitamin D testing and treatments.

[25:18] Research-backed facts addressing the dangers and benefits of protein intake in humans and animals.

[30:13] Chris highlights his personal favorite supplements, his research on collagen, and his favorite health practices.

[35:48] The importance of nasal breathing and other practices Chris has changed his mind about.

Episode Resources:

Chris D’Adamo

DSHEA

Clinical Trial Registration

Examine

Mytavin

The NIH Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT)

Design for Health Resources:

Designs for Health

Blog: Effects of Creatine on Brain Health and Function

Blog: L-Carnitine for Energy Production and Beyond

Blog: Creatine – Benefits Beyond Exercise

Blog: Applications of the Antioxidant, Astaxanthin

Blog: Research Review: Glucosamine and Chondroitin in Osteoarthritis

Visit the Designs for Health Research and Education Library which houses medical journals, protocols, webinars, and our blog.

Dr. Tom O’Bryan is an internationally recognized and sought-after speaker specializing in wheat, its impact on health, and the development of autoimmune diseases as they occur inside and outside the gut. Dr. Tom is the author of You Can Fix Your Brain and The Autoimmune Fix, the creator of the documentary series “Betrayal: The Autoimmune Solution They’re Not Telling You” and he holds teaching positions with the Institute of Functional Medicine and the National University of Health Sciences.

Together we discuss the dangers of going gluten-free, the history behind autoimmune disease, the power of employing different antibodies, molecular mimicry in the gut, and more. Dr. Tom shares his knowledge and passion about gluten and autoimmune conditions and doesn’t shy away from the facts about what it will take to heal an adult’s relationship with gluten.

I’m your host, Evelyne Lambrecht, thank you for designing a well world with us.

Key Takeaways:

[2:05] Dr. Tom’s interest in gluten and autoimmune conditions initially developed from infertility issues.

[5:55] Distinguishing gluten sensitivity from wheat sensitivity and celiac disease from non-celiac disease.

[9:48] The four horsemen of Celiac research, their findings, and the tests that are being conducted on gluten sensitivity.

[12:30] Labs that test IGG and IGA and the surprising lack of accurate results.

[17:03] The value of lab testing sequences and specific genetic testing.

[21:12] Details of the most commonly tested protein in wheat and their actions.

[28:25] The key cause of intestinal permeability and leaky gut in every single human.

[30:52] The negative impact of glyphosate on our food supply.

[33:55] Dr. Tom’s son is a living example of a healthy microbiome.

[34:42] The revealing relationship between memory B-cells and gluten.

[39:09] Humans have been negatively reacting to wheat through transient permeability for over a century.

[43:05] Five elements of the perfect storm that activate wheat-related disorders including genetics and environmental triggers.

[48:22] Details regarding elevated zonulin and the transient leaky gut.

[49:35] Autoimmune antibodies and their relationship with the thyroid.

[52:52] Dr. Tom’s approach to teaching patients to implement effective gluten-free diets.

[58:46] Rebuilding the microbiome and employing the digestive enzymes that actually work.

[59:33] Dr. Tom’s favorite personal supplements and health practices and the key knowledge he has gained over the course of his career.

Episode Resources:

Tom O’Bryan

House Plants Are Air Purifiers

The Dangers of a Gluten-free Diet

Nutritional Wheat Amylase-Trypsin Inhibitors Promote Intestinal Inflammation via Activation of Myeloid Cells

All disease begins in the (leaky) gut: role of zonulin-mediated gut permeability in the pathogenesis of some chronic inflammatory diseases

Design for Health Resources:

Designs for Health

Blog: Serum-derived Bovine Immunoglobulins and Gut Barrier Function

Blog: Polyphenols May Support the Body’s Response to Increased Intestinal Permeability

Blog: The Relationship Between Histamine Intolerance and Gastrointestinal Health

Blog: How Diet Guards Against Leaky Gut

Blog: Supportive Role Probiotics Play on Gut-Brain Axis and Mood Health, According to Recent Review

Blog: The Adaptogen Advantage

Visit the Designs for Health Research and Education Library which houses medical journals, protocols, webinars, and our blog.

Return podcast guest and Designs for Health Chief Science Officer Dr. Barrie Tan is back on the Conversations for Health podcast for a continuation of our conversation about Vitamin E and  Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Together we discuss Dr. Tan’s invention of the combined CoQ10 and GG compound, key differences and similarities of ubiquinone and ubiquinol, and CoQ10 as a memory retention and agent that can counteract adverse effects of statin medications. Dr. Tan details his discovery of the benefits of the annatto plant and highlights the encouraging research findings regarding tocotrienol use in neurological health for those who are dedicated to improving the aging process. 

I’m your host, Evelyne Lambrecht, thank you for designing a well world with us.

Key Takeaways:

[2:32] Dr. Barrie Tan details his invention of the combined CoQ10 and GG compound.

[5:13] Key differences and similarities of ubiquinone and ubiquinol.

[10:26] The dual benefits of both taking and making ubiquinol with GG to address a mitochondrial dysfunction energy deficit as we age.

[12:23] Identifying the functioning location of CoQ10 in particular cells.

[16:58] Dr. Tan explains his GG and CoQ10 recommendations for statin users.

[27:27] Dosing ranges for GG based on age, MK-4 levels, and other health concerns.

[33:23] Future research possibilities on compound GG include body fat, energy transfers, and body temperature regulation.

[38:36] Addressing concerns regarding tocopherols that are commonly found in food.

[41:35] The environmental impact of sourcing annatto plants.

[45:03] Dr. Tan reflects on his experience of finding the annatto plant.

[48:56] Research findings regarding tocotrienol use in neurological health.

Episode Resources:

Dr. Barrie Tan 

The Truth About Vitamin E: The Secret to Thriving with Annatto Tocotrienols

Design for Health Resources:

Designs for Health

Tocotrienols White Paper

Blog: Combination of Geranylgeraniol + Ubiquinol to Support Mitochondrial Function

Blog: CoQ10 Helps Promote Mitochondrial Function

Blog: Bisphosphonates and Bone Health: Is There a Role for Geranylgeraniol?

Blog: Vitamin E Tocotrienols, Metabolic Health, and Healthy Aging

Webinar: Lipid-Soluble Nutrients in Metabolic Syndrome: The Supportive Roles of Tocotrienols, Resveratrol, and Vitamin D

Presentation: Dr. Barrie Tan at CASI 2022: Annatto Tocotrienol & Geranylgeraniol

Visit the Designs for Health Research and Education Library which houses medical journals, protocols, webinars, and our blog.

This episode of Conversations for Health features Dr. Nancy O’Hara, MD, author of Demystifying PANS/PANDAS: A Functional Medicine Desktop Reference on Basal Ganglia Encephalitis. Nancy is a board-certified pediatrician who specializes in treating PANS, PANDAS and BGE and other neurodevelopmental disorders. She is a leading trainer and mentor of clinicians in the US and globally, educating medical professionals to recognize, diagnose and treat these conditions and began her consultative, integrative practice for children with special needs, dedicating her practice to treating children with neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, PANS/PANDAS and BGE, OCD, Lyme, and Autism Spectrum Disorder in 1999. 

In our conversation, Nancy highlights PANS and PANDAS, its symptoms, triggers, and treatment. She shares success stories, advancements in research and tactics for helping children and their parents better navigate these lesser known clinical diagnoses. With insights into dosing, treatment steps and advice for the health team that can help to restore health, this conversation is filled with hope for anyone who is looking for answers to all of their  PANS/PANDAS journey questions. 

I’m your host, Evelyne Lambrecht, thank you for designing a well world with us.

Key Takeaways:

[1:51] Nancy recalls her journey of working with children with autism, pediatrics, and functional medicine. 

[4:40] Key differences, defining characteristics, and symptoms of PANS and PANDAS. 

[9:22] Challenges of obtaining a correct diagnosis and the rates of occurance in children. 

[11:10] Best practices for achieving correct diagnoses including antibodies and specialty labs. 

[16:05] Bartonella testing recommendations and key symptom indicators that encourage testing. 

[17:19] A timeline of basal ganglia encephalitis and the silver lining role of Covid-19 in treating BGE. 

[19:54] Genetic markers and other risks that increase susceptibility to autoimmune disease. 

[21:13] First steps for treatment, including critical medicines, supplements and nutrition. 

[24:31] Nancy’s recommendations for dosing supplements for children and the underlying deficiency causes of disordered eating. 

[28:45] NAC dosing as it can be used for OCD and addictive behaviors. 

[31:00] Tactics for helping kids and adults swallow capsules with greater ease.

[33:10] Identifying the triggers behind PANS/PANDA and next step supplement treatments. 

[36:51] Reference ranges for vitamin A and D dosage levels for children. 

[38:20] Antibiotics, restoration of the microbiome, and reducing toxic burden in the gut and nervous system. 

[41:23] The role of immunotherapy in Nancy’s practice. 

[45:17] The waxing and waning course of healing and the rates of recurrence. 

[49:30] The team that Nancy employs to help regulate the nervous system.

[50:00] Nancy’s favorite recovery story. 

[54:28] Nancy’s favorite supplements for herself and for children, her top health practices, and the hopeful changes she has experienced as she has learned to listen to her body. 

Episode Resources:

Dr. Nancy O’Hara 

Demystifying PANS/PANS: A Functional Medicine Desktop Reference on Basal Ganglia Encephalitis

Clark's Rule

Design for Health Resources:

Designs for Health

Webinar: Children's Digestive Care: The Role of the Gut and Microbiome in Pediatric Health & Disease with Dr. Nancy O'Hara

Live Presentation: Lindsey Wells and Nancy O’Hara – Clinical Round | Pediatric Post-Infectious Cases

Blog: Picky Eating in Childhood

Blog: Factors Affecting Focus

Blog: Sleep Aids for Children

Blog: Sleep Soundly with 5-HTP

Blog: New study demonstrates effect of dietary supplements on clinical aspects of autism

Blog: Dietary Interventions for Autism

Blog: From Epigenetics to the Microbiome in Autism

Visit the Designs for Health Research and Education Library which houses medical journals, protocols, webinars, and our blog.

This episode of Conversations for Health features Dr. Beverly Yates ND, an internationally acclaimed diabetes expert who uses the Yates Protocol to help people get control over their blood sugar, reclaim their energy, and enjoy life again. The Yates Protocol was developed over the course of her 20-plus-year clinical career, using the Systems Approach from her prior career as an MIT-trained Electrical Engineer. Diabetes is on the rise globally, and the Yates Protocol has helped thousands of people around the world with Type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes to get control of their blood sugar and live life the way they want to.

In our conversation, Beverly shares a variety of clinical pearls regarding diabetes and blood sugar.  She highlights five key lifestyle aspects that prevent or control diabetes, the lab numbers that are cause for alarm, and the role that culture sensitivity plays in effective practitioner recommendations.  She weighs in on the various monitors, diets, medications, and popular hacks that can be used to control blood sugar and offers her wisdom and practical advice for anyone who is struggling to manage their blood sugar more effectively. 

I’m your host, Evelyne Lambrecht, thank you for designing a well world with us.

Key Takeaways:

[2:10] Beverly’s personal illness journey led her to specialize in naturopathic medicine.

[5:00] A family history of diabetes in Beverly’s family tree didn't stop her from taking control of her personal health.

[7:44] Awareness of culturally sensitive diets is a key point of effective connection and healing.

[10:43] Key lab numbers that should result in sounding the alarm on fasting blood glucose (FBS), fasting insulin, and hemoglobin A1C.

[17:03] A comparison of the effectiveness of continuous blood glucose monitors and glucometers and what actions can be taken based on the data results.

[20:10] Basic glycemic control is reflected in normal, timely rises and falls in blood sugar levels based on activity level and dietary intake.

[21:36] Surprising foods that may cause a spike in blood sugar — and some that don’t.

[23:30] Snacking throughout the day is not the answer to controlling blood sugar.

[26:04] The Theia Health app can be used by practitioners to collect patient CGM data.

[28:18] Beverly’s 4 recommended food combining hacks that can be used to support blood sugar regulation.

[32:10] Additional meal timing considerations that have the potential to cause a spike in blood sugar.

[35:55] The role of medications including Ozempic and GLP-1 agonists as the answer to Type 2 diabetes and obesity.

[43:17] Tactics for practitioners to help manage potential side effects of medications.

[46:02] Nutrients and herbs that can help support blood sugar management.

[49:50] The role of the gut microbiome in managing diabetes can be impacted by diet and insulin resistance issues.

[52:32] Beverly shares her personal favorite supplements, her favorite health practices, and the outdated advice that she has changed her mind about over her years of practice.

 Episode Resources:

Dr. Beverly Yates 

Heart Health for Black Women: A Natural Approach to Healing and Preventing Heart Disease 

Natural Health Care 

Theia Health App

The Patient Will See You Now

Design for Health Resources:

Designs for Health

Research Article: Effects of delta-tocotrienol supplementation on Glycemic Control, oxidative stress, inflammatory biomarkers and miRNA expression in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized control trial

Research Article: A Novel Mixture of δ-Tocotrienol, Vitamin D3, Resveratrol (NS3) Significantly Decreases Diabetes Biomarkers Including Inflammatory in People with Type 2 Diabetes

Blog: The Latest on Berberine and Gut Health

Blog: Berberine’s Potential to Support Heart Health and Blood Sugar Metabolism

Blog: Recent Review Explores Relationship Between Berberine and the Gut Microbiome

Blog: New study links inflammation and changes in the gut microbiome to type I diabetes

Blog: The Potential Link Between CoQ10 and Endocrine Health

Visit the Designs for Health Research and Education Library which houses medical journals, protocols, webinars, and our blog.

This episode of Conversations for Health features integrative dietitian and menopause expert Esther Blum.  Over the last 27 years, Esther has helped thousands of women master menopause through the perfect cocktail of nutrition, hormones and self advocacy. 

Esther is known as Gwyneth Paltrow’s menopause mentor and by Forbes for helping women thrive through menopause. Esther received a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Nutrition from Simmons College in Boston and is a graduate of New York University, where she received her Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition. Esther is credentialed as a registered dietitian, a certified dietitian-nutritionist and a Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS), the certification from the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS).

In our conversation, Esther addresses the timing and symptoms of perimenopause, details of hormone replacement therapy, the importance of prioritizing mental health and optimizing nutrition to reduce cravings, increase fat loss, and improve sleep, and the importance of advocating for yourself and building an integrated team that can support you through the menopause years. 

I’m your host, Evelyne Lambrecht, thank you for designing a well world with us.

Episode Resources:

Esther Blum

See Ya Later, Ovulator! 

The Happy Hormone Cocktail

Gabby Bernstein - Motivational Speaker

Davidji - Insight Timer

Heal Documentary

Design for Health Resources:

Designs for Health

Webinar: Navigating Menopause: Empowering Women Through the 'Change'

Blog: The Biochemistry of Ashwagandha

Blog: Rhodiola’s Impact on Cellular Energy Production and Mitochondrial Function

Blog: Topical Uses for Magnesium

Blog: Connection Between Magnesium and Vitamin B6 to Support a Normal Stress Response

Blog:  Genistein to Promote Menopausal Comfort and Bone Health

Blog: Research Review: Broccoli for Supporting Gut Microbial Health

Blog: Impact of Women’s Menstrual Cycle on Circadian Rhythms and Sleep

Visit the Designs for Health Research and Education Library which houses medical journals, protocols, webinars, and our blog. 

Chapters:

[2:26] Esther’s passion for helping women through menopause has only increased as she has expanded her knowledge of hormones and testing. 

[5:18] The truth about hormone replacement therapy and an overview of key hormones  including progesterone, estrogen and cortisol in perimenopause. 

[12:15] Esther’s three standard lab tests and the importance of key findings. 

[17:29] Following testing, Esther prioritizes gut and adrenal support for the next step toward finding solutions. 

[19:20] Key lifestyle strategies that Esther prioritizes for her clients. 

[23:04] High quality research-backed supplements including holy basil, ashwagandha and trace minerals. 

[25:00] Nutrient guidelines for women regarding carb tolerance, continuous glucose monitors, and protein intake. 

[30:37] Estrobolome and the role of calcium D-glucarate in overcoming digestion interference. 

[34:23] Practical tips and serving recommendations for incorporating more fiber into an ideal diet. 

[36:58] Hormone replacement therapy symptoms, timing, and testing recommendations. 

[39:51] Findings from vaginal estrogen studies that can help to improve overall quality of life. 

[41:17] Esther’s approach to patient recommendations and collaborative approach to prescriptions as she refers clients to other functional medicine providers. 

[46:12] Research surrounding early intervention, including bone density preservation, cardiovascular risk prevention, and brain gray matter preservation. 

[48:01] Strategies for advocating for yourself through the menopause years. 

[50:32] The dangers of hormone pellets versus other, more manageable hormone dosages. 

[53:01] Hormone timing recommendations and financial accessibility for the average person. 

[58:43] The negative impact of alcohol and caffeine in the menopause years. 

[1:02:54] Esther’s top personal supplements, her go-to health practices, and the things that she has changed her mind about over her years of practice.

This episode of Conversations for Health features gut health expert Dr. Oscar Coetzee. Dr. Coetzee has been a pioneer in the field of nutritional science and research for more than 25 years and currently serves as the Clinical Director of the Nutrition Department at Natural Healthcare Center. He is an Associate Professor at the Maryland University of Integrative Health, Associate Director of the DHSc program at the University of Bridgeport, and Adjunct Professor at Georgetown Medical School. He is a Certified Board Supervisor for the Certified Nutrition Specialists and is on the National Board Exam Committee for the National Association of Nutrition Professionals. Dr. Coetzee has been on the Designs for Health Scientific Advisory Board since 2016 and is the Senior Director of Clinical Education.

In our conversation, Oscar brings to light a wide spectrum of gut health factors, including functional GI testing, how to implement an effective gut protocol, insights into akkermansia and butyrate, the gut/brain connection, and the role that lab testing can play in taking effective steps toward health. 

I’m your host, Evelyne Lambrecht, thank you for designing a well world with us.

Key Takeaways:

[2:29] Oscar’s passion for developing functional lab testing tools for practitioners grew as he recognized an overall industry lack of tools and testing options.

[4:50] The importance of optimizing wellness rather than diagnosing disease and the functional testing that promotes optimal health.

[7:20] Oscar’s preferred tests address three categories — organic acids, gastrointestinal, and genomics.

[8:36] An algorithm-based approach to GI spotlight testing has the potential to guide clinicians to improved outcomes.

[10:54] The ideal practitioner candidate for the benefits of algorithm-based testing includes anyone who is committed to finding answers for their patients.

[13:19] The test covers several categories including gut bacteria in the microbiome, inflammatory indicators, gut barrier integrity, inflammation, and fungal factors.

[15:00] Markers that comprise the gut barrier integrity, LPS, and coordinating supplements.

[20:38] Determining when to use nutrients and herbs versus serum bovine immunoglobulins or colostrum.

[23:55] Balancing intuition and lab testing results when approaching functional testing.

[30:01] Oscar’s recommendations for the timing of each phase of testing and GI health change maintenance once the program is ‘complete’.

[36:53] Tactics for boosting and maintaining healthy levels of akkermansia in gut health, including intermittent fasting.

[42:34] Insights into the link between LPS levels and anxiety and depression, the gut-brain connection, and the multifactorial inflammation model.

[47:07] Testing possibilities for patterns in bacteria metabolomics and Vitamin B production.

[51:18] Markers that indicate a need for more butyrate and tactics for a gut diversity dietary approach.

[56:00] Resources for in-depth information about marker research and implementation.

[57:31] Oscar’s favorite personal supplement recommendations.

[59:20] Probiotics, gene expression, and antimicrobial protocol recommendations.

[1:08:30] Oscar’s personal health practices and the pharmaceutical approach he has changed his mind about in recent years.

Episode Resources:

Dr. Oscar Coetzee

Spotlight Teachable Online Training

Design for Health Resources:

Designs for Health

Spotlight Test Information

Webinar: Spotlight Suite Functional Wellness Tests

Blog: Serum-derived Bovine Immunoglobulins and Gut Barrier Function

Blog: Recent Review Explores Biochemical Relationship Between Gut Metabolites and Metabolic Health

Blog: Supportive Role Probiotics Play on Gut-Brain Axis and Mood Health, According to Recent Review

Blog: Recent Review Explores Relationship Between Berberine and the Gut Microbiome

Blog: Anti-inflammatory Effects of Supplemental Butyrate

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