Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a renowned expert in nutrition, health, and wellness, known for her insights into the impact of dietary choices on overall health. With a focus on the effects of non-nutritive sweeteners, gut health, and oxidative stress on the body, Dr. Hieshetter is a leading voice in helping individuals understand how modern dietary elements affect their well-being. She is a frequent speaker and educator in the field, dedicated to making scientific research accessible to the public.

In this enlightening episode, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter delves into the intricate world of non-nutritive sweeteners, focusing on erythritol and its alarming implications for brain health and cardiovascular risk. Drawing from a forthcoming 2025 study, she discusses the adverse effects of erythritol on brain microvascular endothelial function, highlighting increased risks for cerebrovascular events and cardiovascular mortality. Extend the conversation to include a large cohort study involving Finnish smokers, Dr. Hieshetter emphasizes the dire consequences associated with erythritol consumption, urging a reevaluation of these sweeteners' legality given their potential health risks.

Dr. Hieshetter further explores the complexities of sweeteners like stevia and their unknown long-term impacts. She references various studies, including Project SWEET and insights from European research on artificial sweeteners, revealing how these substances may inadvertently contribute to chronic health issues like elevated triglycerides and impaired kidney function. Shifting attention to gut health, Dr. Hieshetter emphasizes dietary integrity and the pivotal role of a healthy gut microbiome in preventing inflammation and chronic disease. Concluding with practical dietary advice and upcoming topics on gut health, Dr. Hieshetter leaves listeners equipped with crucial knowledge and a call for proactive health vigilance.

• Erythritol, a common non-nutritive sweetener, has been linked to increased risks of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in a recent study.
• The Finnish cohort study uncovers grave mortality risks tied to erythritol, with significant implications for cancer and heart disease.
• Despite its popularity, the long-term safety of stevia remains largely unvalidated, with some evidence suggesting potential health risks.
• Gut health plays a critical role in overall wellness, and maintaining a balanced microbiome is crucial in preventing kidney and other systemic health issues.
• Dr. Hieshetter advocates for choosing natural foods over artificial additives to reduce health hazards related to modern dietary patterns.

• "Erythritol is actually changing the microvascular function of the blood vessels that bring nutrients to the brain."
• "The higher the erythritol, the higher the risk of death and cancer in these folks."
• "Ingesting all these artificial sweeteners either raised your triglycerides and your liver enzymes or raised your LDL cholesterol."
• "It's really critical to understand that when you see these groups… they can be manufactured without the things that are harmful to our brains."
• "Gut permeability is pivotal in the etiology of all immune disorders and in eliciting chronic inflammation."

• Moms Across America: An organization focused on protecting children from harmful food additives and advocating for safer food production practices.
• World Health Organization: Provides guidelines on sweetener use and health recommendations.
• Project SWEET Study: A study evaluating the effects of non-nutritive sweeteners on metabolism and health.
• Gut Microbiome Research: Studies exploring the link between gut health and systemic disease prevention.

Join and listen to the full episode for an in-depth understanding of how today's dietary choices impact health, with crucial insights from Dr. Kristin Hieshetter. Stay tuned for more episodes that delve into health, wellness, and nutritional science!

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a dedicated specialist in functional health and a passionate podcast host of Functional Health Radio. Known for her focus on holistic health and wellness, Dr. Hieshetter is deeply invested in raising awareness about the potential dangers lurking in everyday products, especially those purported to be healthy alternatives. Her insightful discussions aim to educate listeners, encouraging them to make healthier choices and reduce toxins in their lives. Dr. Hieshetter's expertise is informed by years of practice and collaboration with other healthcare professionals.

Join Dr. Kristin Hieshetter in this intriguing episode of Functional Health Radio as she delves into the world of artificial sweeteners, specifically erythritol. This episode is interwoven with gratitude and the importance of making informed health decisions. Dr. Hieshetter explores erythritol's potential health risks and provides listeners with essential information to navigate the complex landscape of sweeteners. This discussion is particularly critical for those with predispositions to cardiovascular diseases.

In this episode, Dr. Hieshetter discusses erythritol's implications on health, backed by recent studies such as the one from Nature and Medicine in March 2023. She explains how erythritol can enhance the risk of major cardiovascular events, highlighting a 150% increase in overall mortality risk linked to the artificial sweetener, with pronounced concerns for heart attack, stroke, and cancer. Dr. Hieshetter underscores the importance of identifying and avoiding erythritol in various products to maintain optimal health.

• Erythritol and Cardiovascular Risks: Recent studies indicate a strong association between erythritol intake and increased risks of heart attack and stroke, primarily due to its impact on blood clots and platelet activity.
• Mortality and Long-Term Health Impact: A 150% increased overall mortality risk is associated with erythritol consumption, with significant implications for cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
• Natural vs. Artificial Erythritol: While erythritol occurs naturally in certain fruits and foods, the concentrated form used as an artificial sweetener poses substantial health risks.
• Consumer Awareness is Key: Erythritol often lurks in sugar-free and keto-friendly foods; understanding this can help individuals avoid unintended health risks.
• Practical Tips for Healthier Choices: Check product labels and stay informed about the ingredients in seemingly "healthy" food options, particularly those targeting specific diets like keto and paleo.

• "I'm especially thankful for all the listeners; I hope that you guys are getting healthier each week."
• "Erythritol is no joke…it enhances platelet activity and thrombosis."
• "The risk of myocardial infarct and stroke is huge with erythritol."
• "You double your risk of stroke if you are using erythritol."
• "When erythritol occurs naturally in fruits and fermented foods, is it as deadly? No."

• Recent Studies:
• Nature and Medicine: "The Artificial Sweetener Erythritol and Cardiovascular Event Risk," March 2023.
• Nutrients Journal: "Serum Erythritol and Risk of Overall and Cause Specific Mortality in a Cohort of Men," September 2024.

Listeners are encouraged to explore these topics further for a deeper understanding of the impact erythritol may have on health. Tune in to the full episode for a comprehensive discussion and keep listening to Functional Health Radio for more insights on living a toxin-free, healthier life. Stay tuned for more enlightening content!

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a passionate host of the Functional Health Radio and a health expert focusing on functional and neurological health. With ongoing education through the Carrick Institute of Neurology, Dr. Kristin is onboard to become a board-certified neurologist. She is committed to exploring scientific literature and practical health strategies to promote longevity and improve quality of life across various contexts. Dr. Kristin's passion for brain health and energy, structured restoration for youngsters, and continuous learning positions her as an engaging and knowledgeable voice in functional health.

In this intriguing episode of Functional Health Radio, host Dr. Kristin Hieshetter takes listeners on a deep dive into the NRF2 pathway and its remarkable role within the human body. With her characteristic blend of scientific rigor and practicality, Dr. Kristin dissects the complex function of NRF2—nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2—as a cornerstone in antioxidant defense and inflammation control. She explains how NRF2 signaling might revolutionize treatments for inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases, making this episode a must-listen for health enthusiasts seeking insights into cutting-edge health science.

Dr. Kristin's exploration covers NRF2's involvement in cellular protection, detoxification, and its response to environmental and metabolic stressors. With citation to pivotal studies in molecular science, she illuminates NRF2's potential impact on disease processes such as Alzheimer's, cancer, and autoimmune conditions. Her passion for brain health is evident as she links NRF2 activation to improved mitochondrial function and autophagy, underlying its significance in maintaining cognitive function. Through detailed exploration, she emphasizes how compounds like curcumin enhance NRF2 activity, heralding a new frontier in functional health strategies.

• NRF2 Pathway Significance: NRF2 is crucial in regulating the body's response to oxidative stress and inflammation, with promising applications in cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic health.

• Inflammation and Immunity: Inflammation is a key player in various diseases; NRF2 can moderate inflammatory responses by influencing and downregulating harmful gene expressions.

• Neuroprotective Functions: NRF2 supports brain health by promoting DNA repair, mitochondrial health, and autophagy, suggesting substantial benefits for conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

• Curcumin as NRF2 Activator: The compound curcumin, found in turmeric, activates NRF2 signaling, providing a naturally derived method to enhance cellular defense systems.

• Lifestyle Recommendations: Strategies such as intermittent fasting and targeted supplementation can support NRF2 activity, promoting better health outcomes and longevity.

1. "NRF2 can flip your genes on and off to help you deal with inflammation. Amazing, right?"
2. "This NRF2 can flip itself on or off when you need it. That is incredible."
3. "Autophagy protects you from free radical damage; it helps cells repair themselves."
4. "Learning and memory are enhanced when you are undergoing autophagy."
5. "The NRF2 pathway—inflammation moderation, mitochondrial protection, DNA repair—could become the next therapeutic target in all neurodegenerative diseases."

• Molecules Journal: November 2020 publication on the "Overview of NRF2 Signaling Pathway and its Role in Inflammation."
• International Journal of Molecular Science: September 4, 2021, article by Grzynska et al. on NRF2's role in neurodegenerative diseases.
• Curcumin Studies: Information on the activation of NRF2 through curcumin, as studied in prostate cancer research.
• Further Information and Updates: Dr. Kristin's Health Podcast Series (Link to be searched/added separately).

Tune in to this enlightening episode today to further your understanding of NRF2's transformative potential in health science. Stay connected with Functional Health Radio for more groundbreaking insights into functional health and wellbeing.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a prominent expert in the field of functional health, known for her impassioned work in spreading well-researched health information through her platform, Functional Health Radio. With a keen focus on the intersection of lifestyle choices and health outcomes, Dr. Hieshetter draws on extensive research to inform her discussions on critical health topics, including alcohol consumption and its links to cancer. She has garnered appreciation for her analytical approach and commitment to empowering listeners to make informed health decisions.

Join Dr. Kristin Hieshetter as she delves into the critical connection between alcohol consumption and breast cancer on this episode of Functional Health Radio. As alcohol use remains prevalent, understanding its health implications becomes crucial, especially in light of emerging research. Dr. Kristin examines the cultural shifts in alcohol consumption and the heightened awareness about its potential risks, leading into an in-depth discussion based on recent medical findings.

In this informative episode, Dr. Kristin highlights the sobering reality illustrated by recent studies, showcasing the increased risk of breast cancer associated with alcohol consumption. From alcohol's biological impact on estrogen levels to its epidemiological connection to various cancers, listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the inherent health risks. Dr. Kristin also provides practical advice on reducing these risks, emphasizing mindful consumption and advocating for better dietary and lifestyle choices to mitigate cancer risks.

• Alcohol is widely consumed but poses significant health risks, including increased cancer risk, particularly breast cancer.
• Studies reveal that every 10-gram increase in alcohol consumption raises breast cancer risk significantly.
• Alcohol contributes to numerous cancer types, raising estrogen levels, which can exacerbate cancer risk, especially in post-menopausal women.
• Reducing alcohol intake can significantly lower cancer risk, encouraging more mindful drinking habits.
• Mocktails, like a raspberry basil concoction, provide healthy, antioxidant-rich alternatives to alcohol.

• "People are just using [alcohol] to medicate, right? Like, well, screw it. The virus is still here, and it's snowing again. I'm gonna have myself a beverage."
• "Alcohol causes three out of four of those genetic mutations. Scary, right?"
• "If there's anything you can do to prevent from ever needing cancer or chemotherapy, I want to be in your corner helping coach you through that process."
• "Be safe, everybody. Okay? So these different patterns of alcohol drinking may have different effects on breast cancer."
• "One beverage a day raises your risk 200%. Say it again. Have a beverage on a holiday. Have a beverage once a month."

• PubMed - Source of numerous studies including data on alcohol and cancer.
• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism - Statistics on alcohol use disorders.
• Pharmacological Reports - Source for the discussed article on alcohol and breast cancer.
• Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study - Study investigating alcohol and cancer risk.
• Functional Health Mastery Group

For a deeper dive into the compelling research behind these findings and to gather more actionable insights on improving health through informed lifestyle choices, tune in to this enlightening episode. Don't miss more expert insights and informative discussions on Functional Health Radio with Dr. Kristin Hieshetter.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a distinguished figure in the field of functional health. Known for her dedication to improving healthcare outcomes, she hosts "Functional Health Radio," which focuses on contemporary health challenges and innovative solutions. She has an extensive healthcare background, including specialties in cardiology, neurology, biofeedback, and nutritional biochemistry. Her passion for empowering individuals to realize their full potential positions her as a leading voice for transformative health practices.

Dr. Laura Standridge is an engaged and knowledgeable mother of a child with BPAN (Beta-Propeller Protein-Associated Neurodegeneration). She collaborates with Dr. Kristin Hieshetter on the Functional Health Radio podcast to share insights on managing neurodegenerative conditions through innovative dietary, therapeutic, and technological interventions. Her training, which includes clinical expertise and use of biofeedback and mitochondrial devices, offers a valuable perspective on caring for children with complex health needs.

In this episode of Functional Health Radio, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter dives deep into the alarming statistics surrounding declining U.S. life expectancy and the uptick in chronic conditions among children, sparking discussions on healthcare spending and health optimization. The episode progresses with an exploration of BPAN (Beta-Propeller Protein-Associated Neurodegeneration) and the intricacies of managing this rare neurodegenerative disorder through strategic dietary choices and advanced therapeutic interventions. A special focus is placed on addressing iron accumulation in the brain and the growing trend of neurodevelopmental conditions influenced by environmental toxins.

Dr. Hieshetter, alongside guest Dr. Laura , elaborates on strategies to reduce iron intake, utilize mitochondrial support, and implement innovative therapies such as biofeedback devices and low-level lasers to promote brain health. A moving discussion about Dr. Laura son, Laird unveils practical implementations of technology-aided therapies in clinical settings. Through these discussions, the episode underscores the vital roles of therapeutic collaboration and continued parental involvement in treating neurodegenerative disorders. Essential references to books like "The Iron Curse" by Dr. Christy Sutton and devices aiding neurodevelopment offer an enlightening perspective on progressive healthcare.

• Iron Management in BPAN: Limiting iron intake is crucial for managing BPAN, particularly avoiding high-iron foods and choosing suitable alternatives.
• Innovative Therapies: Utilizing devices such as TENS units, Resimax, and Erconia lasers can substantially aid in treating neurodegenerative conditions by enhancing cellular energy and brain function.
• Environmental Toxin Awareness: Reducing exposure to environmental toxins like PFAS is critical in managing and mitigating neurodevelopmental disorders.
• Integrative Health Interventions: Combining chiropractic, neurology, and nutritional insights leads to more comprehensive treatment approaches for complex health conditions.
• Power of Movement: Ensuring movement, even passive, in children with developmental challenges plays a vital role in maintaining brain health and function.

1. "We are walking around in the most amazing, intelligent, responsive, adapting, and aware system in the world, the human you." — Dr. Kristin Hieshetter
2. "Everything you put in that kid's body is going to immediately help or immediately harm that child." — Dr. Kristin Hieshetter
3. "If you're interested in learning more about that iron and what is happening, 'The Iron Curse' by Dr. Christy Sutton is amazing." — Dr. Kristin Hieshetter
4. "His typical BPAN trajectory is not happening with her son because we're doing so many other things." — Dr. Kristin Hieshetter
5. "The neat thing about the continued quest for knowledge is that you stack in all these other things because you know there's going to be things in there that can help that patient." — Dr. Kristin Hieshetter

• Dr. Christy Sutton's Book: [The Iron Curse](Not provided in the transcript)
• Dr. William Davis' Books: "Undoctored" and "Wheat Belly Diet"
• David Perlmutter's Book: "Grain Brain"
• Erconia Lasers: Erconia Medical (unprovided in transcript)
• Functional Health Mastery Group
• Device and Therapy: Forebrain headsets, TENS units, Resimax, and Kirtan Kriya audio meditations

Listeners are encouraged to tune into Functional Health Radio to delve deeper into essential topics related to health innovation and management and to stay informed about forthcoming episodes packed with insightful discussions and expert perspectives.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a distinguished expert in functional health, with years of professional practice in improving patient outcomes through innovative approaches to wellness. Dr. Laura is a passionate advocate for brain health and a seasoned practitioner in functional medicine. Both guests bring profound insight into optimizing human health by addressing root causes of chronic conditions.

In this eye-opening episode of Functional Health Radio, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter and Dr. Laura delve deeply into the troubling trends in U.S. life expectancy and the rising prevalence of chronic diseases among children. The discussion begins with a stark statistic: for the first time in recorded history, the U.S. life expectancy has declined, prompting a thorough analysis of how modern healthcare practices are failing to halt conditions like heart disease and cancer. The episode offers a roadmap to harnessing the body's incredible potential through functional health principles.

This episode intricately explores genetic factors, specifically focusing on the MTHFR SNP and its role in metabolism and health. Dr. Laura shares critical insights on how these genetic factors affect her son, Laird, who has a complex profile including the COMT gene. Detailed recommendations for specific dietary changes and supplementations, like Omega-3 fatty acids and curcumin, highlight the power of tailored health interventions. The episode is rich with actionable advice for parents and healthcare practitioners interested in functional medicine's potential to address neurodegenerative disorders.

• The U.S. is witnessing a significant decline in life expectancy, particularly concerning due to rising chronic disease rates in children.
• Genetic variations such as the MTHFR and COMT mutations can significantly impact health, underscoring the need for personalized healthcare approaches.
• Functional health emphasizes the importance of diet and high-quality supplements like Omega-3s, melatonin, and curcumin for brain health.
• Testing inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) is crucial in managing and optimizing health outcomes in chronic conditions.
• The episode provides a day-in-the-life insight into managing the health of a child with a neurodegenerative condition through diet and specific nutraceutical protocols.

1. "We are no better at healing heart disease and cancer than we were in the 1950s." - Dr. Kristin Hieshetter
2. "Melatonin is the next vitamin D. It's not just the sleep hormone. It's a potent brain antioxidant." - Dr. Laura
3. "You can't do that if you don't fill in the gaps in your diet. So take your supplements or you're not playing sports." - Dr. Kristin Hieshetter
4. "Anytime we can get one more target, that to me, is just one more way to help a child." - Dr. Laura
5. "Inflammation is my jam and brain health is my jam." - Dr. Laura

• CDC Vital Statistics Report - Data source on U.S. life expectancy trends.
• PubMed - Resource for research articles.
• Functional Health Mastery Group
• Linda Mood Bell Learning Processes - Education programs mentioned for multi-sensory learning.

Stay tuned for more transformative insights from Functional Health Radio, where healthcare meets cutting-edge science to empower listeners towards better health outcomes. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that covers groundbreaking strategies in functional health.

Dr. Laura Standridge is a prominent functional chiropractor known for her expertise in pediatric neurological development and genetic disorders. She is board certified in neurofeedback and specializes in approaches that focus on neurodevelopmental assessments, particularly concerning mitochondrial function and primitive reflexes. Dr. Standridge has gained attention for her work with rare neurodegenerative disorders, particularly BPAN, following her son's diagnosis with the disease. Her professional journey is marked by a dedication to understanding and improving neurological health through innovative methods in functional and integrative healthcare.

In this enlightening episode of Functional Health Radio, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter delves deep into the pressing health crises in America, revealing that the country's life expectancy has not only plateaued but declined for both men and women. Despite the high per capita healthcare expenditure, conditions like heart disease and cancer remain prevalent, and children are increasingly diagnosed with chronic diseases. The discussion transitions into a heartfelt narrative with Dr. Laura Standridge, a functional chiropractor passionately occupied with her son Laird's rare neurodegenerative disease known as BPAN (Beta-propeller Protein-Associated Neurodegeneration).

BPAN, characterized by iron accumulation in the brain, is a daunting diagnosis for any family, but Dr. Standridge shares her proactive approach to defy the medical script of decline. Employing advanced genetic testing and leveraging her deep understanding of functional health principles, Dr. Standridge explores comprehensive interventions that have led to remarkable outcomes for Laird. From dietary adjustments to specialized neurodevelopmental therapies and state-of-the-art medical interventions, Dr. Standridge's narrative underscores a hopeful perspective—not only sharing insights about BPAN but also reflecting innovative applications of functional health practices. This episode highlights how a blend of cutting-edge science and compassionate care can write new chapters in health and wellness narratives.

• BPAN Disease Insight: BPAN is a rare neurodegenerative disorder that causes abnormal iron accumulation in the brain, significantly impairing mitochondrial function and autophagy.
• Unique Case of Laird: Laird defies the typical BPAN trajectory through a tailored combination of nutritional strategies, functional therapies, and mitochondrial enhancement techniques.
• Importance of Nutrition: Laird’s diet, free of gluten and inflammatory foods, supports brain health by preventing autoimmune responses that can exacerbate neurological damage.
• Integrative Approaches: Utilization of genetic testing and innovative therapies, like low-level laser therapy, provides neuroprotective benefits and enhances Laird's quality of life.
• Collaborative Healthcare: Dr. Standridge exemplifies the power of interdisciplinary collaboration, uniting various specialists to support a functional health-driven roadmap for Laird.

1. "We are walking around in the most amazing, intelligent, responsive, adapting and aware system in the world, the human. Let's bring it to its fullest potential." - Dr. Kristin Hieshetter

2. "It doesn't matter what the label is…I'm much more interested in how you are functioning and not what somebody from the outside might call you." - Dr. Laura Standridge

3. "We waited and we waited and we waited some more and finally received this diagnosis." - Dr. Laura Standridge

4. "The brain is built on the postural system…and so there is this amazing order of neurological development whether you have a genetic difference or not." - Dr. Laura Standridge

5. "Together, we'll be the change that we wish to see in the world." - Dr. Kristin Hieshetter

• Learn more about BPAN and related genetic testing at the CDC Vital Statistics Report: www.cdc.gov
• For insights into functional chiropractic care and Dr. Laura Standridge’s approaches, visit Functional Health Mastery
• Stay informed with the World Economic Forum's health expenditure data: www.weforum.org
• Functional Health Mastery Group

Listen to the full episode to dive deeper into the revolutionary approaches that Dr. Laura Standridge and Dr. Kristin Hieshetter share in tackling BPAN, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and informative discussions on Functional Health Radio.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a distinguished functional health professional renowned for her integrative approach to wellness. With a strong background in neurodegenerative disease management and gut health, Dr. Hieshetter has been impacting lives through her podcast, "Functional Health Radio." Her dedication to evidence-based practice has propelled her podcast to the top 10% of global rankings in just six months. Dr. Hieshetter's clinical practice is underpinned by rigorous research, patient-centered care, and a deep commitment to improving health outcomes through innovative approaches like low-level laser therapy.

In this compelling episode of Functional Health Radio, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter delves into the intricacies of gut health and its profound impact on overall wellness. She opens with a nod to her previous episode about low-level laser therapy in neurodegenerative diseases and its life-changing potential for children. Transitioning into the current discussion, Dr. Hieshetter elaborates on how gut health significantly influences various symptoms like GI upset, brain fog, and mental health deterioration, emphasizing a holistic clinical approach.

Amid her exploration of gut microbiome, Dr. Hieshetter sheds light on the critical role of nutritional choices and exposure to toxins such as MSG, aspartame, and glyphosate. Highlighting the connection between gut imbalances and systemic diseases, she shares a powerful story of a patient who traveled from Florida seeking relief from chronic gastrointestinal issues. Through advanced gut testing, Dr. Hieshetter outlines her integrative treatment strategies, underscoring the significance of vibrant gut health and its direct correlation with mental well-being, autoimmune disorders, and even neurological diseases like Parkinson’s.

• Gut health is intricately linked to brain health, influencing symptoms like anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline.
• Functional testing, such as Vibrant America's Gut Zoomer, plays a vital role in diagnosing and treating gut imbalances.
• Avoiding harmful substances like excitotoxins and pesticides is crucial for maintaining gut and overall health.
• Comprehensive treatment plans, including probiotics, dietary changes, and low-level laser therapy, can significantly improve quality of life.
• Emotional and mental health often improve alongside physical well-being in cases of severe gut imbalances.

• "When there are things that I know the world needs, I know my patients need, they keep walking through my door without me asking."
• "Your gut microbiome is a major protector of that."
• "Pesticides like paraquat, they inhibit autophagy… It cleans out cancer cells that shouldn't be there."
• "Stop eating pesticides. Avoid them at all costs."
• "It's a really different topic to check out, but for the repeat listeners, you know, it's been a great journey for us all here."

• Vibrant America - Website
• Journal of Environmental Toxicology 2022
• Journal of Parkinson's Disease 2023
• Environmental Working Group (EWG) - Website
• Pelican S.L. Pentair Water Filtration System
• Functional Health Mastery Group
• Trends in Neuroscience 2013

For those seeking to enhance their understanding of functional health and explore transformative approaches to wellness, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in next week for more illuminating content from Functional Health Radio, where Dr. Kristin Hieshetter continues to share insights that can change the face of healthcare.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a chiropractor with an extensive background in functional health and integrative medicine. She hosts Functional Health Radio and is known for her innovative approaches using therapies like low-level laser treatment to enhance patient care. Dr. Hieshetter is involved in the Integrative Health Institute, where she educates other healthcare professionals on cutting-edge techniques in functional medicine and neurological treatment.

In this insightful episode of Functional Health Radio, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter shares her experiences with using low-level laser therapy for medical interventions. Having recently encountered a personal family situation, she underscores the potential of these treatments in aiding recovery and fostering faster healing, particularly in the context of her mother's hip surgery. The episode pivots around remarkable treatments Dr. Hieshetter provided using a 7.5 milliwatt low-level laser device, acclaimed for its ability to accelerate healing and reduce infection risks.

The discussion further delves into the successful use of low-level laser therapy in a groundbreaking open-heart surgery case involving a 12-year-old boy afflicted with a rare genetic disorder known as BPAN. Dr. Hieshetter shares how the use of this therapy during surgical procedures was facilitated by notable collaboration with renowned cardiac surgeon Dr. Cavarana. This collaboration allowed for the first-ever application of low-level laser therapy in an operating room, evidencing its capacity to safeguard against brain cell death and facilitate extraordinary recovery outcomes. Dr. Hieshetter emphasizes the emerging roles of integrative medicine and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in achieving optimal patient health outcomes.

• Low-Level Laser Therapy: This non-invasive treatment helps reduce infection risks, enhance mitochondrial function, and accelerate healing, with successful cases in surgical recoveries.
• Innovative Surgery Application: Dr. Hieshetter facilitated the first use of low-level laser therapy during a pediatric cardiac surgery, achieving significant positive outcomes by preventing brain cell death.
• BPAN Genetic Disorder: Highlighted is the impact of this rare condition on brain and tissue function, underscoring the need for advanced integrative treatment options.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The episode underscores effective cooperation between chiropractors and surgeons, driving medical innovation and enhanced patient care.
• Advocacy for Integrative Health: Dr. Hieshetter asserts the importance of integrative healthcare solutions, stressing their role in improving the future of patient health management.

• "When you can do something that reduces the risk of infection and speeds healing without any risk or side effect, it's miraculous."
• "The future of health belongs to the integrators."
• "This is why my very weak 7.5 milliwatt low-level lasers were able to help my mom."
• "It's not from heat… Photochemistry became a widely accepted hypothesis to explain the induction of photobiological processes."
• "We were able to articulate the importance of transcranial low-level laser in brain injury and in TBI and in stroke."

• Integrative Health Institute: A professional organization dedicated to teaching functional medicine tools to healthcare providers.
• Medical University of South Carolina: Location where the groundbreaking surgery took place.
• Functional Health Mastery Group
• BPAN Genetic Disorder Information: Insights into the condition discussed within the episode.

For a deeper understanding and comprehensive insights into the potential of low-level laser therapy and integrative medicine, tune into the full episode. Functional Health Radio continues to bring you innovative solutions and success stories in the world of functional health. Stay connected for more enlightening content.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a dynamic and passionate chiropractic neurologist in training, renowned for her dedication to pediatric functional health. With extensive expertise in sacro occipital technique, chirodontics, and clinical neuroscience, Dr. Kristin is committed to innovating how functional medicine integrates with neurology to enhance patient outcomes. Currently on the path to becoming board certified, she combines rigorous study with active clinical practice, making her a valuable source of knowledge in the rapidly evolving field of neuroplasticity and brain health.

In this captivating episode of Functional Health Radio, host Dr. Kristin Hieshetter delves into the intricacies of pediatric brain development, exploring the functional ranges of brainwave frequencies that play a pivotal role in how children process information. As she shares her insights from both personal clinical experience and academic study, listeners gain a fascinating glimpse into the complex and ever-evolving world of developing brains. With a background in chiropractic neurology and pediatric health, Dr. Kristin expertly guides her audience through the rich landscape of brainwave activities and their critical impact on growth, learning, and memory in youth.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Kristin elucidates the different brainwave types—delta, theta, beta, alpha, and gamma—providing a thorough understanding of their significance in various developmental stages. Leveraging her profound expertise, she explains how these brainwaves influence activities like sleep, concentration, memory formation, and creativity. She offers actionable insights into how parents and practitioners can support their children's cognitive development and shares exciting interventions like low-level laser therapy that promises to enhance brain function. Her thought-provoking discussion of the deromenegeal system and practical tips for optimizing brain health, including box breathing exercises and nutritional support, ensures listeners walk away with valuable tools to apply in real-world scenarios.

• Brainwave Functions: Each brainwave type—delta, theta, beta, alpha, and gamma—has a unique role in cognitive processes such as sleep, concentration, and creativity, essential for a child’s development.
• Neuroplasticity Insights: Neuroplastic changes can occur as quickly as within 21 days, highlighting the brain's remarkable ability to adapt and grow with proper intervention.
• Role of Low-Level Lasers: Low-level laser therapy can safely enhance brainwave activity in underactive areas, proving beneficial for conditions like ADHD and concussion recovery.
• Importance of Synaptic Pruning: Proper synaptic pruning strengthens effective neural pathways and minimizes non-productive activity, aiding in healthy cognitive and behavioral development.
• Integrating Play: Engagement in games like "Simon Says" and "Red Light, Green Light" is key for developing impulse control in children through activation of higher executive functions.

• "The more we learn about the brain, the more we realize we really don't know anything."
• "Low-level laser therapy is just a tremendous tool…you can correct kids' brain waves with low-level laser. It is so cool."
• "These games, red light, green light, hopscotch…are so critical for impulse control."
• "You can see neuroplastic changes, permanent neuroplastic changes, in as little as 21 days."
• "Try this Brain Waves app. See what you can do to enhance your own human experience by tapping into the power of the waves generated by your amazing human nervous system."

• ICPA - International Chiropractic Pediatric Association for locating certified pediatric chiropractors.
• Brain Waves App, a tool recommended by Dr. Kristin for retraining brain waves (not hyperlinked, not specified further).
• Functional Health Mastery Group
• Simplified Functional Medicine on Facebook for additional insights in functional health.
• The Integrative Health Institute for professional development in integrated health practices (not hyperlinked, not specified further).

Engage with this insightful episode to deepen your understanding of pediatric brain development and discover practical strategies to support cognitive health. Tune in next week for more valuable insights from Functional Health Radio.