Get to the Root of It

Get to the Root of It

By Laurel BrennanHealth & Fitness
Download on the App Store

Get to the Root of It episodes

  • The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Music Therapy with Meagan Hughes (Eps. 23)

    Summary

    Meagan Hughes, a licensed professional music therapist and music imagery therapist, discusses the difference between music therapy and music imagery therapy. She explains that music therapy uses music to achieve therapeutic goals within a therapeutic relationship, while music imagery therapy uses music as a container and stimulus to activate an individual's creative imagination. Meagan shares her journey in the field of music therapy and her experiences working in different settings. She also provides insights into what a typical music therapy session looks like and how music therapy benefits the brain and nervous system. Music therapy has the power to connect people and create an environment that challenges and supports individuals. It is used in various settings, including dementia care, to improve mood, cognitive functions, memory, and socialization. Music therapy also benefits caregivers and staff by reducing burnout and enhancing the overall environment. Music is a universal language that can bridge language barriers and create cross-cultural connections. It promotes mindfulness, cognitive stimulation, and emotional regulation. Learning a new instrument can be a powerful cognitive stimulation. Music therapy sessions involve getting to know the client, relaxation, imagery, and creative expression.

    Takeaways

    • Music therapy uses music to achieve therapeutic goals within a therapeutic relationship.
    • Music imagery therapy uses music as a container and stimulus to activate an individual's creative imagination.
    • Music therapy sessions can vary depending on the setting and goals, but they often involve creating a structure where clients can engage with music and express themselves.
    • Music therapy has various benefits for the brain and nervous system, including regulating emotions, stimulating the release of feel-good chemicals, and promoting bonding and connection.
    • Music therapy can be beneficial for individuals with or without musical experience, as it focuses on personal preferences and creating a safe and supportive environment. Music therapy can connect people and create a supportive environment.
    • It is beneficial in dementia care, improving mood, cognition, memory, and socialization.
    • Music therapy reduces burnout and enhances the environment for caregivers and staff.
    • Music is a universal language that can bridge language barriers and create cross-cultural connections.
    • It promotes mindfulness, cognitive stimulation, and emotional regulation.
    • Learning a new instrument can be a powerful cognitive stimulation.
    • Music therapy sessions involve relaxation, imagery, and creative expression.
    • Chapters

      02:10 Introduction and Overview

      03:38 Understanding Music Therapy and Music Imagery Therapy

      10:12 Exploring a Typical Music Therapy Session

      17:29 The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Music Therapy

      25:04 The Power of Music to Connect and Support

      26:58 Music Therapy in Dementia Care

      29:32 Music Therapy for Caregivers and Staff

      31:05 Music as a Universal Language

      33:55 Music and Mindfulness

      37:31 Cognitive Stimulation through Music

      Get in Touch with Meagan Hughes


      www.musicalmethodsmt.com

      Facebook 

      Instagram   

      LinkedIn

      Click any link below to connect with Laurel Brennan, MOTR/L, RYT, CHC, ReCODE 2.0 

      Detox Guide for Brain Health

      ⁠⁠https://www.rootcauseology.com/⁠⁠ for information on Brain Health Services, Yoga, and⁠ ⁠Brain Health Retreats⁠

      Instagram @rootcauseology⁠⁠ ⁠⁠

      TikTok @rootcauseology⁠⁠

      ⁠⁠Facebook @rootcauseology⁠⁠ 

      YouTube RootCauseologywithLaurelBrennan

      LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-brennan-38931945/

      Private⁠ ⁠Facebook Group, Brain Wellness & Dementia Prevention

      Schedule a Free Consultation


      48 min
    • Anti-inflammatory Meals Made Easy with Ashley Malik (Eps. 22)

      Summary

      Ashley Malik shares her personal journey with weight loss and how she developed an anti-inflammatory nutrition strategy. She discusses the roadblocks and challenges she faced along the way and emphasizes the importance of mindset in achieving health goals. Ashley explains what anti-inflammatory eating entails and how it has positively impacted her gut health and hypothyroidism. She also highlights the significance of building a supportive community and offers tips for component cooking to simplify meal preparation. Ashley encourages individuals to give themselves grace and remain consistent on their health journey.


      Takeaways

      Anti-inflammatory eating can help improve gut health and manage conditions like hypothyroidism.

      Mindset plays a crucial role in achieving health goals and overcoming challenges.

      Building a supportive community is essential for success on a health journey.

      Component cooking can simplify meal preparation and allow for flexibility in accommodating different dietary needs.


      Chapters

      02:10 Introduction

      03:16 Ashley's Personal Journey with Weight Loss

      10:47 Navigating Family and Peer Pressure

      14:11 Understanding Anti-Inflammatory Eating

      18:18 The Importance of Mindset

      29:24 Building a Supportive Community

      33:06 The Benefits of Component Cooking

      38:12 Giving Yourself Grace and Consistency

      48:26 Conclusion


      Connect with Ashley Malik, MSW

      website - www.ashleymalik.com

      Instagram - @theashleymalik

      LinkedIn - in/theashleymalik/

      Connect with Laurel

      Click any link below to connect with Laurel Brennan, MOTR/L, RYT, CHC, ReCODE 2.0 

      ⁠www.rootcauseology.com/detox How to Optimize Detoxification

      ⁠⁠https://www.rootcauseology.com/⁠⁠ for information on Brain Health Services, Yoga, and⁠ ⁠Brain Health Retreats⁠

      Instagram @rootcauseology⁠⁠ ⁠⁠

      TikTok @rootcauseology⁠⁠

      ⁠⁠Facebook @rootcauseology⁠⁠ 

      YouTube RootCauseologywithLaurelBrennan

      LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-brennan-38931945/

      Private⁠ ⁠Facebook Group, Brain Wellness & Dementia Prevention

      Schedule a Free Consultation






      49 min
    • The Root of Weight Loss with Lori Graham (Eps. 21)

      Summary

      In this conversation, Lori Graham, an occupational therapist and functional medicine practitioner, shares her journey and insights into the importance of nutrition and lifestyle in promoting health and preventing disease. She discusses the challenges of promoting healthy eating and the power of group support in making lasting changes. Lori also highlights the influence of her occupational therapy background in her approach to functional medicine. She emphasizes the need for personalized weight loss strategies and the benefits of clean eating,
      identifying underlying root causes of weight gain and the role of the microbiome in weight loss.
      Finally, Lori discusses her upcoming book on well care and the importance of addressing root causes in healthcare.


      Takeaways

      • Nutrition and lifestyle play a crucial role in promoting health and preventing disease.
      • Group support can be a powerful tool in making lasting changes to diet and lifestyle.
      • Occupational therapy skills, such as listening and personalizing care, are valuable in the field of functional medicine.
      • Peri- and post-menopausal women often struggle with weight gain and metabolic issues.
      • Functional medicine can help identify underlying root causes of weight gain.
      • Tracking changes in body composition is more important than focusing solely on the number on the scale.
      • Individualized eating plans and macronutrient balance are crucial for successful weight loss.
      • Intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating can be effective strategies for weight loss.
      • Weight loss can lead to improved health, pain relief, and a better quality of life.

      • Chapters

        02:00 Introduction and Background

        05:12 Discovering Functional Medicine

        10:28 The Impact of Nutrition on Health

        12:32 Challenges in Promoting Healthy Eating

        20:04 The Power of Group Support

        28:40 The Influence of Occupational Therapy

        30:00 The Power of Listening

        35:04 Personalized Weight Loss

        36:03 Clientele Base: Peri- and Post-Menopausal Women

        39:19 Functional Medicine and Underlying Root Causes

        46:29 The Role of Microbiome in Weight Loss

        48:22 Risks and Benefits of Focusing on the Number on the Scale

        53:24 Factors Beyond Food that Impact Weight

        55:24 Intermittent Fasting and Time-Restricted Eating

        1:00:57 Benefits of Weight Loss: Improved Health and Pain Relief

        1:03:00 Contact Information and Book Project


        Connect with Lori Graham, OTR, MS, CN, Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner

        IFM: Explore the concepts of Food as Medicine and the Root Cause Approach of Functional Medicine

        Click any link below to connect with Laurel Brennan, MOTR/L, RYT, CHC, ReCODE 2.0 

        ⁠The Brain Health Quiz⁠ - What is Your Risk for Cognitive Decline?

        ⁠⁠https://www.rootcauseology.com/⁠⁠ for information on Brain Health Services, Yoga, and⁠ ⁠Brain Health Retreats⁠

        Instagram @rootcauseology⁠⁠ ⁠⁠

        TikTok @rootcauseology⁠⁠

        ⁠⁠Facebook @rootcauseology⁠⁠ 

        YouTube RootCauseologywithLaurelBrennan

        LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-brennan-38931945/

        Private⁠ ⁠Facebook Group, Brain Wellness & Dementia Prevention

        Schedule a Free Consultation


        1 hr 8 min
      • Clean Good Eats with Dr. Sakinah Bunch (Eps. 20)

        Summary

        Dr. Sakinah Bunch shares her journey of healing her daughter's severe food allergies and her husband's chromosome deficiency through alternative medicine. This led her to become a naturopathic doctor and open Clean Good Eats, a farm-to-table cooking studio that specializes in allergy-friendly cooking. Dr. Bunch emphasizes the importance of advocating for your child's health and the power of food in healing the body. She also discusses the challenges of educating the community about naturopathy and healthy eating. Dr. Bunch provides tips for better health, including avoiding table salt and drinking water separately from meals. The conversation highlights the lack of food knowledge among some children, emphasizing the need for education and exposure to healthy eating habits. The cost of eating healthy is also discussed, with Dr. Bunch emphasizing the importance of building relationships with local farmers to make healthy food more accessible. Dr. Bunch's books, which focus on cooking and marriage, are mentioned, along with the benefits of farmers markets and the joy of connecting with farmers.

        Takeaways

        • Food can play a crucial role in healing the body, especially in cases of allergies and gut issues.
        • Educate yourself and your children about healthy eating and involve them in the cooking process.
        • Naturopathy focuses on natural medicine and holistic approaches to health, addressing the root causes of symptoms.
        • Avoid synthetic foods and prioritize natural, whole foods for better physical and mental health. Hands-on learning experiences at farms can help children understand where food comes from and develop healthy eating habits.
        • Field trips to farms can be transformative for children, allowing them to connect with nature and learn about the importance of sustainable agriculture.
        • There is a lack of food knowledge among some children, highlighting the need for education and exposure to healthy eating habits.
        • Building relationships with local farmers can make healthy food more accessible and affordable.
        • Farmers markets provide an opportunity to connect with local farmers and access fresh, high-quality produce.
        • Dr. Sakinah Bunch has written books on cooking and marriage, offering interactive and practical resources for individuals and couples.
        • Chapters

          02:10 Introduction and Background

          05:49 Healing the Gut and Food Allergies

          10:50 Clean Good Eats and Cooking Classes

          14:00 Encouraging Healthy Eating in Children

          20:20 Naturopathy and Holistic Medicine

          22:30 Challenges and Education in the Community

          23:52 Improving Health through Food

          25:56 Dr. Bunch's Daily Eating Habits

          28:03 Tips for Better Health

          35:10 The Impact of Sugar and Synthetic Foods

          39:14 Funding and Future Goals

          41:47 Hands-on Learning at the Biodynamic Farm

          42:45 Making Salad in the Classroom

          43:28 The Importance of Farm Field Trips

          44:20 Lack of Food Knowledge

          44:52 Making Healthy Food Accessible

          45:26 Building Relationships with Farmers

          46:28 The Cost of Eating Healthy

          47:11 The Joy of Farmers Markets

          47:40 Dr. Sakinah Bunch's Books

          48:37 The Story Behind 'Wife to Be'

          49:32 The Importance of Communication in Marriage

          51:03 Dr. Sakinah Bunch's Books (Continued)

          51:22 Closing Remarks


          Connect with Sakinah Bunch, N.D., INHC

          website: https://cleangoodeats.com/

          Facebook

          YouTube

          Instagram

          Cooking Studio:

          1483 N. Dixie Blvd. Ste B.

          Radcliff, KY 40160

          (502) 233.3020


          Click any link below to connect with Laurel Brennan, MOTR/L, RYT, CHC, ReCODE 2.0 

          ⁠The Brain Health Quiz⁠ - What is Your Risk for Cognitive Decline?

          ⁠⁠https://www.rootcauseology.com/⁠⁠ for information on Brain Health Services, Yoga, and⁠ ⁠Brain Health Retreats⁠

          Instagram @rootcauseology⁠⁠ ⁠⁠

          TikTok @rootcauseology⁠⁠

          ⁠⁠Facebook @rootcauseology⁠⁠ 

          YouTube RootCauseologywithLaurelBrennan

          LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-brennan-38931945/

          Private⁠ ⁠Facebook Group, Brain Wellness & Dementia Prevention

          Schedule a Free Consultation



          52 min
        • The How and Why of Fasting for Your Health with May Fekete (Eps. 19)

          Summary

          May Fekete, a family nurse practitioner and health coach, shares her journey into health and wellness, including her personal experience with breast cancer and how she discovered the benefits of fasting. She explains the different types of fasting and how to start, emphasizing the importance of breaking a fast properly and maintaining electrolyte balance. May discusses who can benefit from fasting and who should approach it with caution. She also highlights the impact of fasting on autophagy, metabolic flexibility, and brain health. May concludes by discussing how people may feel during fasting and the positive effects it can have on mood and cognition. In this conversation, May Fekety discusses the topic of fasting and its benefits. She provides insights into exercise during fasting, emphasizing the importance of lighter activities to avoid excessive stress on the body. May also highlights the positive effects of fasting beyond five days, including weight loss, increased energy, and improved decision-making. The conversation emphasizes the need for support during fasting and the role it plays in maintaining healthy habits. May also addresses the topic of caffeine during fasting, recommending black coffee or plain green tea. Finally, May shares information about her coaching program and the importance of proper preparation and education before embarking on a fast.

          Takeaways

          • During fasting, it is recommended to engage in lighter exercises such as light yoga or walking to avoid excessive stress on the body.
          • Fasting beyond five days can lead to additional benefits such as weight loss, increased energy, and improved decision-making.
          • Having a support system during fasting can help individuals maintain healthy habits and make better choices.
          • When consuming caffeine during fasting, it is best to stick to black coffee or plain green tea.

          • Chapters
            00:30 Introduction and Background
            01:32 May's Journey into Health and Wellness
            05:40 Personal Stories and Turning Lemons into Lemonade
            10:18 Discovering Fasting and Its Benefits
            15:28 Different Types of Fasting and How to Start
            20:34 Breaking a Fast and the Importance of Electrolytes
            26:49 Who Can Benefit from Fasting and Who Should Be Cautious
            32:30 Fasting Mimicking Diet and Muscle Preservation
            37:06 Autophagy and its Benefits for Brain Health
            39:08 Metabolic Flexibility and the Impact of Fasting
            43:08 Fasting and Mood, Cognition, and Gut Health
            47:06 How People Feel During Fasting
            49:10 Exercise during fasting
            50:39 Importance of not overexerting during fasting
            51:09 Benefits of fasting beyond five days
            51:34 The importance of support during fasting
            52:29 The impact of post-fast choices
            52:44 Caffeine during fasting
            54:12 Preparing for a fast and finding support
            54:39 May's coaching program
            58:24 The power of fasting as a healing tool
            You can Find May on

            LinkedIn

            Instagram

            TikTok

            Facebook

            Reach out to May for 1:1 coaching and guidance for fasting for your lifestyle.

            Click any link below to connect with Laurel Brennan, MOTR/L, RYT, CHC, ReCODE 2.0 

            The Brain Health Quiz - What is Your Risk for Cognitive Decline?

            ⁠⁠https://www.rootcauseology.com/⁠⁠ for information on Brain Health Services, Yoga, and⁠ ⁠Brain Health Retreats⁠

            Instagram @rootcauseology⁠⁠ ⁠⁠

            TikTok @rootcauseology⁠⁠

            ⁠⁠Facebook @rootcauseology⁠⁠ 

            YouTube RootCauseologywithLaurelBrennan

            LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-brennan-38931945/

            Private⁠ ⁠Facebook Group, Brain Wellness & Dementia Prevention

            Schedule a Free Consultation


            1 hr
          • Nutrition for Brain Health and Longevity with Joni Rampolla (Eps. 18)

            Summary

            In this conversation, Laurel Brennan interviews Joni Rampolla, a registered dietitian, about the importance of nutrition for overall health and brain health. Joni shares her personal journey to becoming a dietitian and how a simple change in her breakfast routine transformed her life. They discuss the effects of blood sugar and insulin on the body, the nutrients necessary for brain health, and the potential downfalls of specific diets. Joni emphasizes the importance of personalizing nutrition and meal planning, and she introduces her eight-week wellness program. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the benefits of walking for health and Joni's involvement in Walk Carroll, a community walking initiative.


            Takeaways

            Eating a balanced breakfast with protein can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent energy crashes throughout the day.

            Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, fiber, flavonoids, and choline are important nutrients for brain health.

            Personalized nutrition and meal planning can help individuals meet their specific dietary needs and goals.

            Regular physical activity, such as walking, is beneficial for overall health and can be a fun and social activity.

            Joni offers an eight-week wellness program that combines education, group support, and individualized guidance to help individuals improve their health and reach their goals.


            Chapters

            02:00 Introduction and Background

            03:03 Joni's Journey to Becoming a Dietitian

            05:40 Transition to Becoming a Dietitian

            06:19 Impact of Nutrition on Health

            07:13 Effects of Blood Sugar and Insulin

            10:40 Importance of a Balanced Breakfast

            11:53 Nutrients for Brain Health

            16:36 Metabolic Flexibility and Glucose Control

            24:24 Potential Downfalls of Specific Diets

            26:48 Personalizing Nutrition and Meal Planning

            29:28 Managing Belly Fat and Hormonal Changes

            32:41 Using Genetic Nutrition Testing

            38:43 Keto Flex 12-3 and Individualized Meal Plans

            40:29 Eight Weeks to Wellness Program

            43:46 Sunday Walks and Walk Carol

            45:23 Closing Remarks


            BONUS for Podcast Listeners!

            Join Nutrition Coaching 4U’s 8 Weeks to Wellness program - Small coaching group/education sessions starting on March 14th, 2024. If this podcast is mentioned, you will receive:

            • 8 weeks of our customizable meal planning platform FREE ($198 value)
            • To see if you qualify, email [email protected] to set up a brief call.


              You can also find Joni:

              Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JoniRampollaRd/

              LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonirampolla/

              Resources:

              Click any link below to connect with Laurel Brennan, MOTR/L, RYT, CHC, ReCODE 2.0 

              ⁠⁠https://www.rootcauseology.com/⁠⁠ for information on Brain Health Services, Yoga, and⁠ ⁠Brain Health Retreats⁠

              Instagram @rootcauseology⁠⁠ ⁠⁠

              TikTok @rootcauseology⁠⁠

              ⁠⁠Facebook @rootcauseology⁠⁠ 

              YouTube RootCauseologywithLaurelBrennan

              LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-brennan-38931945/

              Private⁠ ⁠Facebook Group, Brain Wellness & Dementia Prevention

              Schedule a Free Consultation with Laurel


              Brain Health Quiz: (This is just for fun - take a deep breath and smile!) If you need to talk through the results, schedule a free consultation.


              47 min
            • The Gut Brain Connection with Laura Brennan of Etoile Wellness (Eps. 17)

              Summary

              Laura Brennan, a gut health consultant, shares her personal journey and the creation of Etoile Wellness. She emphasizes the importance of gut health and its impact on overall well-being. Laura explains the process of healthy digestion and the signs that indicate gut health issues. She also discusses the relationship between gut health and the immune system, highlighting the role of nutrition and nutrients in maintaining a healthy gut. Laura concludes by mentioning tests that can help identify gut health issues and the importance of nutrient-rich foods. This conversation explores the importance of gut health for overall well-being, with a focus on the gut-brain connection. The discussion covers topics such as the role of vitamin D and gut microbiome in maintaining health, the impact of short-chain fatty acids on inflammation, and the importance of a nutrient-rich diet. The conversation also provides practical tips for optimizing gut health and highlights the significance of the nervous system in gut function. The episode concludes with information on where to find additional resources on gut health.

              Etoile Wellness:
              Free Resources from Laura and Etoile Wellness

              Website

              Instagram


              Laurel Brennan, MOTR/L, RYT Resources: 

              ⁠⁠https://www.rootcauseology.com/⁠⁠ for information on Brain Health Services, Yoga, and⁠ ⁠Brain Health Retreats⁠

              Instagram @rootcauseology⁠⁠ ⁠⁠

              TikTok @rootcauseology⁠⁠

              ⁠⁠Facebook @rootcauseology⁠⁠ 

              YouTube RootCauseologywithLaurelBrennan

              Private⁠ ⁠Facebook Group, Brain Wellness & Dementia Prevention

              Schedule a Free Consultation


              Takeaways

              Gut health plays a crucial role in overall well-being and can impact various aspects of health, including digestion, skin health, mood, and immune function.

              A healthy digestion process involves the proper breakdown and absorption of nutrients, starting from the mouth and ending in the large intestines.

              Signs of gut health issues can include bloating, indigestion, reflux, changes in bowel habits, fatigue, brain fog, skin issues, and mood disturbances.

              The gut and the immune system are closely interconnected, and a healthy gut is essential for a strong immune system.

              Tests such as comprehensive stool tests and complete blood counts can help identify gut health issues and immune system function.

              Nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin D, zinc, magnesium, and iron are important for maintaining a healthy gut and immune system. Vitamin D supplementation is beneficial for most people, especially during winter months or in areas with limited sun exposure.

              A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for brain health and can be supported through a fiber-rich diet.

              Short-chain fatty acids, such as butyrate, have anti-inflammatory properties and play a role in gut-brain communication.

              A nutrient-rich diet, including fruits and vegetables, is essential for optimal gut health.

              Top interventions for improving gut health include eliminating potential food sensitivities, supporting the nervous system, and practicing intentional breathing.

              The nervous system plays a significant role in gut health and can be supported through stress reduction techniques.

              Additional resources on gut health can be found on the Etoile Wellness website, including webinars and blog posts.


              Chapters

              02:00 Introduction and Background

              08:27 Personal Journey and Creation of Atwal Wellness

              13:09 Impact of Gut Health on Overall Health

              17:44 Healthy Digestion Process

              30:38 Signs of Gut Health Issues

              35:48 Impact of Gut Health on the Immune System

              42:50 Testing and Nutrients for Gut Health

              55:32 Importance of Vitamin D and Gut Health

              57:12 The Gut Microbiome and Brain Health

              58:07 Short-Chain Fatty Acids and Inflammation

              01:01:26 The Impact of Diet on Gut Health

              01:05:31 Top Three Interventions for Gut Health

              01:11:02 The Role of the Nervous System in Gut Health

              01:14:15 Where to Find More Information

              01:16:07 Free Resources for Gut Health


              1 hr 19 min
            • Colorful Nutrition with Dr. Deanna Minich – From Whole Detox to Personalized Wellness (Eps. 16)

              Summary

              Deanna Minich, a nutrition scientist, educator, and author, discusses her personal journey and influences that led her to her current role. She shares her experience working with Dr. Jeffrey Bland and the valuable lessons she learned. Deanna also talks about her book, Whole Detox, and how it helps people diversify their diets and enjoy being in the kitchen again. She emphasizes the importance of color in nutrition and the benefits of a diverse diet. Deanna highlights the connection between metabolic detoxification and environmental health, particularly the impact of blue light at night. She concludes by explaining why she dislikes the word 'detox' and how she defines it in her book. In this conversation, Deanna Minich discusses the benefits of elimination diets and the importance of personalized nutrition. She explains how an elimination diet can improve energy levels, decision-making, and overall well-being. Deanna also emphasizes the role of genetic testing in tailoring diets to individual needs. She highlights the impact of colorful whole foods on brain health and offers quick and healthy meal options. Deanna shares her website as a resource for recipes and cooking tips, and she discusses her future projects in writing and speaking engagements.

              https://deannaminich.com/


              Takeaways

              • Diversifying one's diet and embracing color can lead to better nutrition and overall health.
                • The impact of environmental factors, such as blue light at night, on health should not be overlooked.
                  • The term 'detox' can have different meanings and interpretations, and a diverse approach to detoxification is important. Elimination diets can help improve energy levels, decision-making, and overall well-being.
                    • Genetic testing can provide insights into personalized nutrition and help tailor diets to individual needs.
                      • Colorful whole foods have a positive impact on brain health.
                        • Quick and healthy meal options include leftovers, smoothies, and salads.
                          • Deanna Minich's website offers recipes, cooking tips, and information on her future projects. https://deannaminich.com/

                          • Laurel Brennan, MOTR/L, RYT Resources: 

                            My Top 10 Brain Wellness Tips

                            https://www.rootcauseology.com/⁠⁠ for information on Brain Health Services, Yoga, and⁠ ⁠Brain Health Retreats⁠

                            Instagram @rootcauseology⁠⁠ ⁠⁠

                            TikTok @rootcauseology⁠⁠

                            ⁠⁠Facebook @rootcauseology⁠⁠ 

                            YouTube RootCauseologywithLaurelBrennan

                            Private⁠ ⁠Facebook Group, Brain Wellness & Dementia Prevention

                            Schedule a Free Consultation 


                            Chapters

                            02:30 Introduction and Background

                            03:38 Personal Journey and Influences

                            05:55 Working with Dr. Jeffrey Bland

                            07:52 Career Path and Transition

                            10:36 Book: Whole Detox

                            12:13 Metabolic Detoxification and Environmental Health

                            16:06 Impact of Blue Light at Night

                            19:45 The Word 'Detox' and its Definition

                            23:56 Benefits of a Diverse Diet

                            29:26 Layout of the Book: Whole Detox

                            36:00 The Importance of Color in Nutrition

                            41:07 The Benefits of Dietary Diversity

                            47:02 Occupational Therapy and Functional Medicine

                            47:51 The Benefits of Up-Leveling Diet

                            48:39 The Importance of an Elimination Diet

                            50:06 Improvements in Energy and Decision-Making

                            50:42 Individual Responses to Elimination Diets

                            51:42 Positive Outcomes of Elimination Diets

                            53:05 Personalized Nutrition and the Whole Detox

                            55:21 The Evolution of Personalized Nutrition

                            57:08 Genetic Testing and Personalized Diets

                            58:66 Nightshade Sensitivity and Substitutes

                            60:18 Bloating and Gut Health

                            61:57 Additional Recipes and Colorful Meals

                            01:05:14 Updates and Changes to the Whole Detox

                            01:06:27 The Connection Between Colorful Foods and Brain Health

                            01:08:45 Quick and Healthy Meal Options

                            01:12:03 Minimizing AGEs and Cooking Tips

                            01:12:45 Where to Find Deanna Minich and Future Projects


                            1 hr 15 min
                          • SIBO, Brain Health and Why to Test with Gary Stapleton (Eps. 15)

                            Summary

                            In this conversation, Laurel Brennan interviews Gary Stapleton, the president and CEO of Aerodiagnostics, a company that provides SIBO breath tests. They discuss the background and prevalence of SIBO, the symptoms associated with it, and the various treatment options available. They also touch on the link between SIBO and brain health, as well as the importance of retesting after treatment. Gary emphasizes the accuracy and reliability of their testing process and provides guidance on the proper collection and shipping of breath samples. In this conversation, Gary Stapleton discusses testing for SIBO and the importance of a valid sample. He explains the process of testing and the turnaround time for results. Stapleton also emphasizes the need for patients to consult with a clinician who understands SIBO and can provide appropriate treatment. He provides resources for further information on SIBO and discusses the option of direct-to-consumer testing. Stapleton also addresses insurance coverage for SIBO testing and the differences between lactulose and glucose substrates. He highlights the need for standardization in SIBO research and the early stages of understanding this condition.


                            Takeaways

                            Testing for SIBO involves collecting breath samples to measure hydrogen and methane levels.

                            A valid sample is crucial for accurate test results.

                            Patients should consult with a clinician who understands SIBO for appropriate treatment.

                            Resources such as SIBOinfo.com and the SIBO doctor provide valuable information on SIBO.


                            Chapters

                            02:00 Introduction

                            03:11 Gary's Background and Aerodiagnostics

                            05:15 What is SIBO and How is it Diagnosed?

                            11:30 Symptoms and Prevalence of SIBO

                            15:50 Link Between SIBO and Brain Health

                            17:10 FODMAPs and SIBO

                            20:10 Root Causes of SIBO

                            30:20 Treatment Options for SIBO

                            34:16 The Importance of Retesting

                            37:43 Evolution of SIBO Testing

                            45:01 Proper Collection and Shipping of Breath Samples

                            48:01 Testing for SIBO

                            49:29 Elemental Diet and Testing

                            50:47 Fast Turnaround Time for Elemental Diet

                            51:28 Seeking Help for SIBO

                            52:51 Returning the Biome to Normal

                            53:31 Additional Resources

                            55:33 Direct-to-Consumer Testing

                            57:05 Insurance Coverage for Testing

                            60:39 Lactulose vs. Glucose Substrate

                            01:05:52 The Need for Standardization in Research

                            01:07:45 Early Days of SIBO Research

                            01:08:25 Availability and Limitations of the Test


                            Find Gary at:

                            https://aerodiagnostics.com/

                            YouTube @garystapleton1319

                            LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-stapleton-87622b31/

                            Laurel Brennan, MOTR/L, RYT Resources: 

                            ⁠⁠https://www.rootcauseology.com/⁠⁠ for information on Brain Health Services, Yoga, and⁠ ⁠Brain Health Retreats⁠

                            Instagram @rootcauseology⁠⁠ ⁠⁠

                            TikTok @rootcauseology⁠⁠

                            ⁠⁠Facebook @rootcauseology⁠⁠ 

                            YouTube RootCauseologywithLaurelBrennan

                            Private⁠ ⁠Facebook Group, Brain Wellness & Dementia Prevention

                            Schedule a Free Consultation 


                            1 hr 10 min
                          • Gratitude Journeys: A Year of Thanks and the Science Behind It All with Dr. Richard Krebs (Eps. 14)

                            In the first part of "Gratitude Journeys," Laurel Brennan introduces her father, Dr. Richard Krebs, a retired psychologist and Lutheran pastor, who embarked on a transformative "Year of Gratitude." Recorded just before Thanksgiving, Dr. Krebs shares the inspiration behind his gratitude journey, which commenced on his 85th birthday in August.

                            Motivated by the realization that time with loved ones is precious and acknowledging the impact of people on his life, Dr. Krebs decided to express gratitude directly to individuals who enriched his life. The journey spans from childhood friends to family members, with face-to-face expressions of gratitude being a key focus.

                            He reflects on the joyous interactions, reaching back over 80 years, and recounts stories of friendship and shared experiences. Notably, Dr. Krebs extends gratitude not only to those who directly impacted him but also to individuals who positively influenced his late wife, Barbara.

                            Laurel explores the emotional and meaningful aspects of this gratitude journey, delving into personal stories of appreciation. Dr. Krebs shares his experiences of thanking people in person emphasizing the reciprocal nature of gratitude.

                            In part two of this episode, we're exploring the profound impact of gratitude on our brains and well-being.

                            As we delve into the neuroscience of gratitude, information is shared from, the Neuroscience of Gratitude and Effects on the Brain which can be found at positivepsychology.com.

                            Psychological Benefits: Gratitude enhances positive thoughts and emotions, increases self-satisfaction, and boosts mood—a recipe for a happier you.

                            Social Benefits: Embracing gratitude improves communication, empathy, interpersonal relationships, likability, and team involvement. (Laurel shares a personal anecdote about how focusing on gratitude transformed her own marriage counseling experience.)

                            Physical Benefits: Gratitude contributes to a stronger immune system, reduced body pains, optimal blood pressure, cardiac functioning, and improved sleep-wake cycles—an investment in a fitter you.

                            Five ways our brain is impacted by gratitude:

                            1. Release of Toxic Emotions: Gratitude activates the limbic system, aiding emotional well-being.

                            2. Reduction of Pain: Studies show that gratitude, through dopamine regulation, reduces subjective feelings of pain.

                            3. Improvement in Sleep Quality: Gratitude triggers hypothalamic regulation, contributing to deeper and healthier sleep.

                            4. Stress Regulation: Gratitude reduces cortisol levels, enhancing cardiac functioning and resilience to stress.

                            5. Reduction of Anxiety and Depression: Gratitude, at a neurochemical level, increases prefrontal cortex neural modulation, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

                            6. Highlighting the vital role of the hippocampus, Laurel connects Alzheimer's disease, anxiety, and gratitude. She shares a meta-analysis linking anxiety to an increased risk of all-cause dementia, emphasizing the potential significance of anxiety in cognitive decline.

                              TED Talk by Brother David Steindl-Rast, encourages listeners to "stop, look, and go" as a daily practice to cultivate gratitude.

                              While I have struggled to implement a gratitude practice that is external (i.e. gratitude journal, gratitude jar), I have realized through the research to create this podcast that I have actually already found the practice that works fairly well for me. (grace at dinner, expressing my gratitude to others). I most connected with the suggestion to Stop, Look, Go. I will try on that one for a while.

                              What gratitude practices have you tried? What has worked?


                              Laurel Brennan, MOTR/L, RYT Resources: 

                              ⁠⁠https://www.rootcauseology.com/⁠⁠ for information on Brain Health Services, Yoga, and⁠ ⁠Brain Health Retreats⁠

                              Instagram @rootcauseology⁠⁠ ⁠⁠

                              TikTok @rootcauseology⁠⁠

                              ⁠⁠Facebook @rootcauseology⁠⁠ 

                              YouTube RootCauseologywithLaurelBrennan

                              Private⁠ ⁠Facebook Group, Brain Wellness & Dementia Prevention

                              Schedule a Free Consultation 

                              45 min

                            About Get to the Root of It

                            From the publisher's feed

                            Get to the Root of It is a podcast for the curious health-seekers hoping to figure out the root causes of symptoms in order to live a happier & healthier life. We look through the lens of…