Naturopath Beth O’Hara shares her experience of 20 years with MCAS, most of those years undiagnosed, which has fuelled her interest to become an expert in MCAS.

Dr Michelle Woolhouse delves into Beth’s health journey with MCAS and Beth generously shares her clinical pearls on the atypical presentations of MCAS, the relationship of mast cells and the nervous system, genetic variants (SNPs) predisposing someone to MCAS along with treatment options that range from micro dosing supplements, neuroimmunology, limbic system balancing and vagal nerve stimulation.

COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

(01:29) Welcoming Beth O’Hara

(02:31) What is MCAS

(05:51) Signs and symptoms of MCAS: piecing together the big picture

(12:23) Beth’s personal struggles with MCAS

(17:35) How Beth rebuilt her health

(19:57) Stabilising the nervous system

(25:53) The importance of safety during the healing journey

(30:23) Genetics and testing for SNPs that provide insights into MCAS treatment

(35:10) Functional pathology testing for mast cell mediators

(40:50) General protocol for sensitive people

(45:05) Additional resources for practitioners

(47:14) Thanking Beth and final remarks

Find today's transcript and show notes here:

https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/mast-cell-activation-syndrome

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***DISCLAIMER: The information provided on fx Medicine by BioCeuticals is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you learn here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.***

In this powerful and fast-paced episode, Dr Helena Popovic joins our fx Medicine by BioCeuticals ambassador Lisa Costa-Bir to reframe dementia as a call to action, a starting point for transformation, not a sign of end of life. Drawing from personal experience as her father’s carer as he encroached dementia and decades of clinical research, Helena explains how lifestyle, mindset, diet, and movement profoundly influence brain health.

From the dangers of excess fructose and the promise of the ketogenic diet to the underestimated power of exercise, volunteering, and finding a sense of purpose - she lays out a comprehensive and inspiring roadmap to protect and even improve cognition.

Helena’s message is clear: a dementia diagnosis is not the end - it’s a wake-up call. Full of evidence-based strategies, clinical pearls, and real-world examples, this episode is essential listening for any practitioner or person who wants to boost up their brain and combat dementia.

Covered in this episode:

(00:54) Welcome Dr Helena Popovic

(02:53) Cause of dementia

(07:55) Effects of fructose

(13:50) Effects of glucose

(22:15) Cognitive reverse hypothesis

(27:33) Beliefs influencing biology?

(33:30) Sense of purpose

(38:34) Physical activity

(44:15) Grip strength

(52:14) Sleep

(57:10) Light exposure

(1:00:50) Nutrient supplementation

(1:05:24) Folate deficiency, homocysteine and uric acid

(1:12:24) Final remarks

Find today's transcript and show notes here:

https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/adventure-prevents-dementia

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***DISCLAIMER: The information provided on fx Medicine by BioCeuticals is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you learn here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.***

Naturopath Keonie Moore shares in-depth clinical experience on managing Paediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal infections (PANDAS) with Ambassador Emma Sutherland. Together they define the key differences between PANDAS and PANS, as well as the the common triggers, signs and symptoms to help clinicians pinpoint the condition - including an overview of the research history backing this relatively newly understood condition. They also discuss the immune-based pathophysiology that not only involves the nervous system but centralises around gastrointestinal health, triggering systemic inflammation.

Keonie shares several components of her Moore method; a treatment plan where specific microbiome, nutrigenomic and pathology tests are recommended to help clinicians determine PANDAS and their therapeutic recommendations. Finally, Keonie details an in-depth, informative, and practical case study of a ten-year-old boy who had severe tic disorder, outlining her strategic approach to the case, therapeutic considerations and dosages, and ultimate outcome. The case study shows the determination of the patient, his family and the clinician in order to bring him back to health.

COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

(00:50) Welcoming Keonie Moore

(01:30) Setting the scene on PANDAS

(05:21) Common presentations of PANDAS

(10:48) Key drivers of PANS and PANDAS

(13:48) A diagnosis of exclusion

(14:54) Can gut health be connected?

(18:24) Testing to determine the best clinical interventions

(24:20) Environmental drivers affecting gut bacteria populations

(28:08) NAC: mechanisms of action

(30:32) Nutrigenomics and how vitamin D impacts the gut microbiome

(33:20) Connections between iron deficiency and neurodevelopmental disorders

(38:11) Case study: 10 year old boy with tic disorder

(48:00) Keonie’s top tip for treating paediatric neurology

(50:10) The Moore Method

(51:17) Thanking Keonie and final remarks

Find today's transcript and show notes here:

https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/understanding-paediatric-neurodevelopmental-disorders-a-focus-on-pandas-with-emma-sutherland-keonie-moore

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***DISCLAIMER: The information provided on fx Medicine by BioCeuticals is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you learn here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.***

In this episode of fx Medicine by BioCeuticals, host Lisa Costa-Bir speaks with naturopathic physician and nootropic expert Dr Greg Kelly about the evolving role of nootropics in supporting cognitive performance. Greg shares how plant-based and nutritional compounds - including bacopa (Bacopa monnieri), saffron (Crocus sativus), gotu kola (Centella asiatica), alpinia (Alpinia galanga), L-theanine, and nicotinamide riboside - can enhance focus, memory, motivation, and mental energy.

The conversation explores how these agents work through key pathways such as acetylcholine signalling, neuroplasticity, and mitochondrial function. Greg also unpacks the concept of brain resource depletion, the impact of modern distractions, and why nootropics are just as relevant for healthy individuals as they are for those with cognitive challenges. He offers practical guidance on stacking, cycling, and how to support non-responders by returning to foundational naturopathic principles like sleep, nutrition, and stress management.

This episode is packed with practical, science-backed takeaways for anyone looking to optimise focus, memory, motivation, and overall cognitive performance - whether in clinical practice or everyday life.

Covered in this episode:

(00:57) Welcome Greg Kelly

(02:02) What are nootropics?

(05:05) Why do we become depleted?

(12:23) L-theanine

(17:51) Bacopa

(24:25) Saffron

(30:01) Gingko

(33:17) Alpinia & Ginger

(37:29) Gotu Kola

(40:29) Nicotinamide riboside

(44:19) Chronic stress and brain damage

(46:45) Are nootropics essential for some patients?

(51:30) Safety issues

(55:22) Thanks and final remarks

Find today's transcript and show notes here:

https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/nootropics-beyond-caffeine-power-up-your-brain-with-lisa-costa-bir-and-dr-greg-kelly

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***DISCLAIMER: The information provided on fx Medicine by BioCeuticals is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you learn here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.***

Dr Deanna Minich provides a comprehensive exploration of the diverse aspects of melatonin, offering a deeper understanding of the mechanisms and benefits of this sleep-associated neurotransmitter. The discussion, hosted by fx Medicine by BioCeuticals Ambassador Dr Adrian Lopresti, covers the different types of melatonin in the body, shedding light on its production sites and widespread presence across body systems.

The episode also explores the connection between melatonin and the gut, its impact on mitochondria, and provides a detailed breakdown of the six pivotal roles that melatonin plays. The conversation touches on a variety of health conditions that melatonin may support, and outlines natural ways to enhance melatonin production—starting with optimising light exposure, dietary strategies, and the potential of plant-sourced melatonin.

Listeners will also gain insights into how endogenous melatonin levels vary across life stages. Importantly, the podcast addresses safety considerations, differences in regulatory status, and offers evidence-based dosage recommendations.

COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

(00:58) Welcoming Dr Deanna Minich

(01:53) What is melatonin?

(04:27) The role of melatonin in the gut

(06:31) The role of melatonin in energy production

(08:27) Therapeutic benefits of melatonin

(10:22) Melatonin’s role in ageing

(11:43) Melatonin in inflammation

(13:56) How light affects the production of melatonin

(21:14) How diet affects the production of melatonin

(29:21) Plant melatonin

(31:39) Melatonin production reduction through ageing

(34:34) Melatonin and the circadian rhythm

(40:57) Melatonin - a molecule of consciousness

(44:12) The role of stress in melatonin production

(46:27) Melatonin supplementation

(51:59) Melatonin dosage

(55:48) Timing on supplementation for sleep

(58:58) Synergystic effects of melatonin and nutritionals

(01:00:49) Melatonin dosage in perimenopause

(01:03:10) Thanking Dr. Minich and closing remarks

Find today's transcript and show notes here: https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/melatonin-mechanisms-of-action-it-s-amazing-role-beyond-sleep-with-dr-adrian-lopresti-dr-deanna-minich

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***DISCLAIMER: The information provided on fx Medicine by BioCeuticals is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you learn here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.***

In part two of our Perspectives podcast series on sleep, host Dr Adrian Lopresti is joined by our fx Medicine by BioCeuticals ambassadors Dr Michelle Woolhouse, Emma Sutherland, Lisa Costa-Bir and Mick Alexander to delve deeper into integrative treatment strategies for sleep disorders.

Shifting the focus from assessment to intervention, the team discusses pharmaceutical options such as benzodiazepines, SSRIs, and melatonin, while emphasising the value of holistic, personalised care. Through detailed case studies, they explore approaches to managing sleep challenges in shift workers, perimenopausal women, and individuals with anxiety or chronic pain.

The episode highlights nutritional and herbal interventions—including saffron, L-theanine, lutein, magnesium, kava, Californian poppy, passionflower, and zizyphus—alongside strategies for enhancing circadian rhythm function, such as natural light exposure and effective decompression routines. Challenges such as long-term medication use and complex cases, including non-responders, are also addressed, reinforcing the need for practitioner collaboration and tailored treatment.

Covered in this episode:

(01:09) Welcome

(01:52) Sleep medications

(03:50) Melatonin

(6:46) SSRIs and SSNIs

(13:24) Regulations around sleep medications

(20:24) Melatonin and children

(23:57) Cannabis and CBD oil

(27:13) Case studies – Emma

(35:37) Case studies – Michelle

(40:46) Case studies – Lisa

(44:55) Case studies – Mick

(50:07) Stubborn sleep issues

(58:17) Referring to other practitioners

(1:01:44) Hypnosis as treatment

(1:04:22) Final thoughts

Find today's transcript and show notes here:

https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/the-sleep-rx-expert-insights-for-better-rest-part-2-treatment

Sign up for our monthly newsletter for the latest exclusive clinical tools, articles, and infographics: https://bit.ly/signupFX

***DISCLAIMER: The information provided on fx Medicine by BioCeuticals is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you learn here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.***

Dr Nicholas Kardaras, psychologist, international speaker and author describes the physical and psychological impact excessive screen time has on both adults and children. Together with our ambassador, Dr Adrian Lopresti, Nicholas describes the addictive nature of excessive screen and the impact this has on dopaminergic function, likening it to substance abuse.

As a psychologist, Nicholas looks to the behavioural implications of screen use in children, describing the connection between screen time and impulsivity and the longer term consequences.

While often associated with children, adults are not immune to screen time addiction, with research demonstrating many adults using screens as an escape from reality. Nicholas describes the implications of screen time addiction on the individual’s ability to connect with others and the correlation this has with increased numbers of depression.

COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

(00:46) Welcoming Dr Nicholas Kardaras

(05:15) The link between screen time and mental health

(10:48) How COVID has affected screen time

(12:58) How escapism is a major driver of addiction

(19:30) How video games are designed for addiction

(27:27) Technology and its effects on the HPA axis

(34:15) Cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease

(36:13) Video games and effect on neurology

(39:23) Video games and aggression

(45:20) Diet and lifestyle of gamers

(51:12) Additional resources for practitioners

(57:08) Thanking Nicholas and closing remarks

Find today's transcript and show notes here:

https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/the-dangers-of-excess-screen-time-dr-adrian-lopresti-dr-nicholas-kardaras

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***DISCLAIMER: The information provided on fx Medicine by BioCeuticals is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you learn here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.***

In part one of our newly revamped Perspectives podcast, hosted by Dr Adrian Lopresti, our fx Medicine by BioCeuticals ambassadors Dr Michelle Woolhouse, Emma Sutherland, Lisa Costa-Bir and Mick Alexander explore the fascinating world of sleep. This episode dives into myths surrounding sleep, such as we can train ourselves to function on less sleep or that timing doesn’t matter as long as we get enough hours.

The team uncovers the pathophysiology of insomnia, examining the roles of neurotransmitters, hormonal changes, and circadian rhythm disruption. They also discuss key assessment tools like wearables, sleep studies, and questionnaires to help identify sleep issues and their root causes.

Additionally, the episode reviews common sleep disruptors, including screen time, shift work, and lifestyle factors, while offering actionable tips to improve sleep quality. Whether you're a practitioner or simply looking to gain a deeper understanding of sleep from four clinical specialists, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you promote better health through improved sleep.

Covered in this episode:

(01:03) Welcome our fx Medicine by BioCeuticals ambassadors

(01:58) Introducing Mick Alexander

(04:06) Sleep overview

(07:23) Sleep myths - Timing and quantity

(09:35) Sleep myths - Life stages

(14:52) Sleep myths - Adolescent sleep

(17:27) Sleep myths - Napping

(22:27) Sleep physiology - Metabolic dysfunction

(26:33) Sleep physiology - Inflammation, gut health and sleep

(31:20) Sleep physiology - Neurotransmitters

(34:46) Sleep physiology - Hormonal disruption

(38:40) Sleep assessment - Wearables

(43:49) Sleep assessment - Sleep studies

(52:26) Sleep assessment - Sleep questionnaires

(58:45) Sleep disruptors - Medications and supplements

(1:04:24) Sleep disruptors - Screen time

(1:11:04) Sleep disruptors - Shift work

(1:13:18) Sleep disruptors - Hormones

(1:15:35) Final thoughts

Find today's transcript and show notes here: https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/the-sleep-rx-expert-insights-for-better-rest-part-1-sleep-fundamentals

Sign up for our monthly newsletter for the latest exclusive clinical tools, articles, and infographics:

https://login.bioceuticals.com.au

***DISCLAIMER: The information provided on fx Medicine by BioCeuticals is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you learn here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.***

Dr Frank Cahill, clinical psychologist and insomnia specialist, joins fx Medicine by BioCeuticals ambassador and psychologist Dr Adrian Lopresti to explore the understanding and treatment of insomnia. Nearly half of Australian adults report sleep issues, with a rise in cases observed at Frank’s practice during the pandemic.

Drawing on his extensive experience, Frank explains homeostatic sleep drive (sleep pressure) and how identifying and adjusting sleep habits can help realign sleep patterns. Frank and Adrian discuss common causes of acute and chronic insomnia and outline tailored treatment approaches. In a live assessment, Frank analyses Adrian's sleep patterns, illustrating the role of sleep drive in overall rest quality.

Gain insights into cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques, including sleep hygiene, relaxation therapy, stimulus control, and restriction therapy, along with tools like sleep diaries, distractions, and medication. The discussion also covers melatonin testing and treatment, with Frank sharing his approach to timing and dosing for circadian rhythm disorders.

COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

(00:56) Welcoming Dr Frank Cahill

(01:31) The prevalence of insomnia in Australia

(03:26) Stress as a major contributor

(05:13) Long-term vs acute insomnia

(10:18) Three types of insomnia

(12:08) The different effects of anxiety versus frustration on sleep

(14:38) Treating early morning waking

(18:13) Calming the busy mind

(20:02) Sleep hygiene is not effective for insomnia

(21:33) Sleep restriction therapy and increasing sleep drive

(25:38) Reduce sleep effort by focusing on rest

(28:08) Utilising sleep diaries and the DAAS questionnaire

(32:58) Is there value in functional testing for melatonin and cortisol?

(37:41) Recommendations around food, caffeine, and sleep

(40:12) Exercise and sleep

(40:57) Can natural health practitioners treat sleep?

(43:09) Melatonin: less is more

(45:10) Herbal remedies and supplements

(46:54) Thanking Frank and final remarks

Find today's transcript and show notes here: https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/insomnia-beyond-sleep-hygiene-with-dr-adrian-lopresti-dr-frank-cahill

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In this episode of fx Medicine by BioCeuticals, host Dr Adrian Lopresti interviews Dr Nenad Naumovski, a leading researcher in food science and human nutrition at the University of Canberra. Dr Naumovski delves into his pioneering research on L-theanine, a non-proteinogenic amino acid found in green tea, highlighting its potential to improve sleep quality, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive function.

Dr. Nenad discusses how L-theanine impacts neurotransmitters and increases alpha waves in the brain to induce relaxation and sleep. He also explains how L-theanine works to improve memory and cognition, which can be understood through its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

The discussion also covers the development of functional food products fortified with nutrients, including L-theanine, and the challenges of making them viable and palatable while maintaining health benefits.

This episode offers invaluable insights into L-theanine's role as a potent therapeutic agent and its positive effects on sleep, cognition and mental health, as well as its place in integrative medicine.

Covered in this episode:

(00:57) Welcome Dr Naumovski

(01:46) Functional foods

(06:01) Citrulline and arginine

(08:41) L-theanine

(12:41) L-theanine sleep trials

(18:13) What is L-theanine derived from

(22:34) Mechanisms of action

(25:55) Neurotransmitter effect

(28:08) Cognition, attention and ADHD

(31:36) Therapeutic range

(34:07) Stress reduction

(38:20) Contraindications

(40:00) Final thoughts

Find today's transcript and notes here:

https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/l-theanine-and-alpha-waves-the-science-of-relaxation

Sign up for our monthly newsletter for the latest exclusive clinical tools, articles, and infographics: https://login.bioceuticals.com.au

***DISCLAIMER: The information provided on fx Medicine by BioCeuticals is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you learn here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.***