The Integrative Edge

The Integrative Edge

By The Integrative EdgeMedicineHealth & FitnessNutrition
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The Integrative Edge episodes

  • Liver Health: A Foundation for Overall Wellness
    In this episode of The Integrative Edge, we’re highlighting one of the most underrated but essential organs for whole-body wellness: the liver. Often only associated with detox, the liver is actually your body’s master multitasker—responsible for over 500 critical functions. It processes hormones, toxins, medications, nutrients, and blood sugar, while also playing a major role in bile production, cholesterol regulation, immune defense, and even thyroid hormone activation. When your liver becomes sluggish, it can show up as fatigue, hormone imbalances, poor digestion, mood swings, and skin issues—often before traditional labs show anything out of range.

    We talk about how to recognize the signs that your liver might be struggling, from PMS and estrogen dominance to pale stools, itchy skin, or sensitivity to alcohol and smells. We also explain the difference between standard liver labs and more functional approaches, like stool testing for bile acid function, organic acids testing to assess detox pathways, and advanced toxin screenings for things like mold and heavy metals. A healthy liver is key to balanced hormones, a thriving gut, optimal thyroid function, and a calm, regulated immune system—especially if you’re navigating autoimmunity or chronic fatigue.

    You’ll hear us walk through how to truly support the liver in a safe and sustainable way. That means focusing on both Phase I and Phase II detox pathways, encouraging bile flow, optimizing glutathione production, and avoiding the common mistake of “pushing detox” without first opening up the body’s drainage and elimination systems. We also share some of our favorite nutrients and herbs for liver support—like milk thistle, artichoke, dandelion, and NAC—as well as daily practices like hydration, sweating, castor oil packs, and lymphatic drainage that support liver and lymph flow.

    The liver doesn’t often complain loudly, but when supported intentionally, it can be the missing link to clearer energy, smoother hormones, better digestion, and improved resilience. You need long-term, functional strategies that work with your body’s natural rhythm. This episode will show you how to start loving your liver the way it deserves.

    Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Email us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you! Please leave us a review if you find this podcast insightful and beneficial. Your health transformation starts here!

    Follow Our Business Platforms! Stay connected and follow our three platforms for health, performance, and rehabilitation insights:
    1. True North Performance
      • Website: TrueNorthPerform.com
      • Instagram: @true_north_kelly1 & @truenorthperformancewisconsin
      • Facebook: True North Performance
    2. Uplifted Oncology Rehab
      • Website: UpliftedOncologyRehab.com
      • Instagram: @upliftedoncology
      • Facebook: Uplifted Oncology Rehab
    3. Innate Healing and Performance
      • Website: InnateHealingAndPerformance.com
      • Instagram: @dr.kymberly.klimek
      • Facebook: Innate Healing and Performance
    30 min
  • Understanding Autoimmune: When Your Body Fights Itself
    In this episode of The Integrative Edge, we’re breaking down the complex and often misunderstood world of autoimmunity—what it is, why it happens, and how functional medicine approaches it differently.

    Autoimmune conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, leading to chronic inflammation, organ dysfunction, and a wide variety of symptoms. With over 100 known autoimmune diseases—including Hashimoto’s, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis—it’s more common than many realize, especially among women.

    We explore the underlying contributors to autoimmunity, including chronic gut dysfunction, infections, toxin exposure, and stress. While genetics play a role, we talk about the concept of “genes loading the gun and the environment pulling the trigger,” meaning environmental and lifestyle factors often activate these conditions. Triggers like leaky gut, mold and mycotoxins, food sensitivities, chronic infections (like EBV or Lyme), trauma, and stress can all contribute to the perfect storm.

    We also walk through the early signs and symptoms that often go overlooked: fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, skin rashes, digestive issues, hair loss, mood swings, and more. Too often, these symptoms are brushed off or misdiagnosed—especially in women—and many people go years without answers. That’s why testing matters. We discuss functional testing options such as autoimmune antibody panels, gut testing for pathogens and permeability, mycotoxin and heavy metal screenings, food sensitivity testing, and inflammatory markers that can provide clearer insight into what's really happening beneath the surface.

    Most importantly, we want you to know: you are not broken. Autoimmunity doesn’t mean your body is attacking you for no reason—it means it’s responding to something it perceives as a threat. With the right support, root-cause testing, and lifestyle interventions, it's absolutely possible to see symptoms improve or even go into remission. You have more power than you think, and we’re here to guide you back to balance.

    Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? 

    Email us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you! Please leave us a review if you find this podcast insightful and beneficial. Your health transformation starts here!Follow Our Business Platforms! Stay connected and follow our three platforms for health, performance, and rehabilitation insights:
    1. True North Performance
      • Website: TrueNorthPerform.com
      • Instagram: @true_north_kelly1 & @truenorthperformancewisconsin
      • Facebook: True North Performance
    2. Uplifted Oncology Rehab
      • Website: UpliftedOncologyRehab.com
      • Instagram: @upliftedoncology
      • Facebook: Uplifted Oncology Rehab
    3. Innate Healing and Performance
      • Website: InnateHealingAndPerformance.com
      • Instagram: @dr.kymberly.klimek
      • Facebook: Innate Healing and Performance
    30 min
  • Do Supplements Actually Work? What to Take, What to Skip? And Where to Purchase?
    In this episode of The Integrative Edge, we’re diving into a question we hear all the time from our clients and community: Do supplements actually work? The truth is—yes, they can be incredibly effective when used correctly. In the world of root-cause healing and functional medicine, supplements can play a powerful role in supporting the body. But not all supplements are created equal. Their effectiveness depends on quality, proper dosing, bioavailability, timing, and individual needs. They’re not magic pills—and they should always support, not replace, a solid foundation of lifestyle, nutrition, and personalized care.

    We break down the difference between foundational supplements that are often worth considering—like high-quality multivitamins, magnesium, omega-3s, vitamin D3/K2, and targeted gut or hormone support—and the ones we suggest skipping. Think: cheap drugstore brands with synthetic fillers, influencer-hyped products with undisclosed ingredients, and anything promising to be a quick fix or “cure-all.” 

    If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. We also uncover the hidden risks of buying supplements on Amazon, including issues with counterfeit products, tampered seals, expired ingredients, and lack of temperature control during storage. Even if a bottle looks legitimate, many practitioner-grade brands do not authorize sales on Amazon—which means you may not be getting what you think you are. If a supplement has ever “not worked” for you, this could be one of the key reasons why.

    Finally, we share where we recommend buying supplements safely and with confidence. Whether it’s through authorized healthcare practitioner platforms like Fullscript (which we both use and offer discounts through), directly from the brand, or trusted distributors, quality truly matters. We also explain how to look for third-party testing and certifications like cGMP, NSF, or USP to ensure you’re getting clean, effective products.

    At the end of the day, your health deserves more than guesswork or trendy marketing. With the right guidance, supplements can be a supportive, intentional part of your healing and performance journey.

    Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Email us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you! Please leave us a review if you find this podcast insightful and beneficial. Your health transformation starts here!

    Follow Our Business Platforms! Stay connected and follow our three platforms for health, performance, and rehabilitation insights:
    1. True North Performance
      • Website: TrueNorthPerform.com
      • Instagram: @true_north_kelly1 & @truenorthperformancewisconsin
      • Facebook: True North Performance
    2. Uplifted Oncology Rehab
      • Website: UpliftedOncologyRehab.com
      • Instagram: @upliftedoncology
      • Facebook: Uplifted Oncology Rehab
    3. Innate Healing and Performance
      • Website: InnateHealingAndPerformance.com
      • Instagram: @dr.kymberly.klimek
      • Facebook: Innate Healing and Performance
    42 min
  • Mold Illness & Mycotoxins: What Everyone Needs to Know
    In this episode of The Integrative Edge, we're shedding light on one of the most overlooked root causes of chronic symptoms—mold illness and mycotoxin exposure. Mold illness is more than just an environmental nuisance; it's a complex inflammatory response that occurs when your body is repeatedly exposed to mold spores and their toxic byproducts, often from water-damaged buildings. Mycotoxins, the harmful compounds released by certain molds, can silently disrupt immune function, hormone balance, brain health, gut integrity, and more, leaving many people misdiagnosed or feeling like they're "just anxious" or "just tired."We explore how mold exposure differs from internal fungal or yeast overgrowth like Candida, and why the two are so often connected. Mycotoxins can suppress the immune system and impair detox pathways, creating the perfect storm for opportunistic infections like Candida to thrive—adding another layer to symptoms and healing complexity. If you’ve been dealing with chronic fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, digestive issues, hormone imbalance, or heightened sensitivity to chemicals and smells, mold and mycotoxins may be an important missing piece.

    You’ll also learn how to properly test for mold illness—because it’s not always visible on standard labs. We break down options like urine mycotoxin testing (through MosaicDX or Vibrant Wellness), blood antibody testing (from MyMycoLab), organic acids testing, fungal antibody panels, and when to consider environmental tests like ERMI, HERTSMI, or The Dust Test to assess your home.  From a functional medicine lens, healing starts with reducing exposure, supporting detoxification through the liver, lymph, and gut, and using specific binders matched to your mycotoxin profile. We also touch on rebuilding gut integrity, supporting mitochondria, and restoring immune balance for long-term recovery—not just symptom management.

    We’ll reference leading voices in the mold and mycotoxin space, including Dr. Jill Crista, Dr. Jill Carnahan, and Dr. Andrew Campbell, whose clinical insights and research have helped shape safe and effective detox strategies.If you've ever felt dismissed by providers or overwhelmed by unexplained symptoms, this episode will help you connect the dots and feel empowered to explore root-cause solutions. Mold illness is underdiagnosed—especially in women—and healing is absolutely possible with the right tools, testing, and practitioner support. Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Email us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you! Please leave us a review if you find this podcast insightful and beneficial. Your health transformation starts here!

    Follow Our Business Platforms! Stay connected and follow our three platforms for health, performance, and rehabilitation insights:
    1. True North Performance
      • Website: TrueNorthPerform.com
      • Instagram: @true_north_kelly1 & @truenorthperformancewisconsin
      • Facebook: True North Performance
    2. Uplifted Oncology Rehab
      • Website: UpliftedOncologyRehab.com
      • Instagram: @upliftedoncology
      • Facebook: Uplifted Oncology Rehab
    3. Innate Healing and Performance
      • Website: InnateHealingAndPerformance.com
      • Instagram: @dr.kymberly.klimek
      • Facebook: Innate Healing and Performance
    39 min
  • What Your Doctor Didn’t Tell You About Birth Control
    In this revealing episode, we unpack the lesser-known effects of hormonal birth control and what your doctor might not have told you. From nutrient depletion and gut disruption to increased risks of mood changes, estrogen dominance, and even certain cancers, we explore how the pill doesn’t regulate your hormones—it overrides them. Many women are left managing symptoms like PMS, acne, or irregular cycles without ever addressing the root cause. We also dive into natural, empowering alternatives to support hormone health, including cycle tracking, nutrient and herbal support, stress management, detox pathways, and gut healing strategies. Whether you’re on the pill, thinking about coming off, or just want to understand your body better—this episode gives you the tools to make informed, root-cause-driven choices. Dr. Kymberly works exclusively with clients interested in coming off birth control and supporting their hormones naturally. Ready to take the next step? Book a Discovery Call with Innate Healing and Performance to get started today.Don’t miss an episode—subscribe today on your favorite platform!
    • Apple Podcasts: Subscribe here
    • Spotify: Subscribe here
    • Or wherever you get your podcasts!
    Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Email us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you! Please leave us a review if you find this podcast insightful and beneficial. Your health transformation starts here! Follow Our Business Platforms! Stay connected and follow our three platforms for health, performance, and rehabilitation insights:
    1. True North Performance
      • Website: TrueNorthPerform.com
      • Instagram: @true_north_kelly1 & @truenorthperformancewisconsin
      • Facebook: True North Performance
    2. Uplifted Oncology Rehab
      • Website: UpliftedOncologyRehab.com
      • Instagram: @upliftedoncology
      • Facebook: Uplifted Oncology Rehab
    3. Innate Healing and Performance
      • Website: InnateHealingAndPerformance.com
      • Instagram: @dr.kymberly.klimek
      • Facebook: Innate Healing and Performance
    30 min
  • The Little Things That Heal Big
    In this episode of The Integrative Edge, we’re zooming in on the small, everyday habits that create big shifts in your health over time. From morning rituals to kitchen cleanups, these “micro-habits” not only support your physical body—they also optimize hormones, reduce inflammation, boost mental clarity, and elevate your quality of life. Topics Covered:
    • Why micro-habits are more powerful than big overhauls

    • Expert Q&A on daily lifestyle tweaks that compound over time

    • How to avoid overwhelm when implementing change

    • A rapid-fire ratings segment with Dr. Kym and Dr. Lindsay on top healthy habits

    Featured Healthy Habits:
    • Not drinking coffee on an empty stomach

    • Avoiding food one hour before bed

    • Drinking half your body weight in ounces of water daily

    • Getting morning sunlight

    • Using a tongue scraper

    • Stretching each morning

    • Dry brushing before a shower

    • Red light therapy or sauna use

    • Using a vibration plate

    • Reading food labels and avoiding harmful ingredients

    • Swapping seed oils for avocado or olive oil

    • Switching to glass containers

    • Leaving your phone out of the bedroom

    • Cooking at home most nights

    • Practicing nasal breathing

    • Weekly Epsom salt baths

    • Morning oil pulling

    • Keeping houseplants for indoor air quality

    • Avoiding thermal receipts

    • Gratitude journaling

    • Using blue light blockers in the evening

    • Practicing 4-7-8 breathing before bed

    Key Takeaway:
    You do not need a massive lifestyle overhaul to feel better—just start with one of these powerful habits and build from there. Consistency beats intensity every time.Resources & Downloads: The Clean Swap booklet available free at www.truenorthperform.com
    28 min
  • From Fatigued to Fueled: Holistic Ways to Restore Your Energy
    In this energizing episode, we break down the real reasons behind chronic fatigue and low energy—and it’s not just about needing more sleep. From poor circadian rhythms and blood sugar crashes to mineral imbalances, toxic overload, and underlying gut or thyroid issues, we explore how your daily habits and hidden root causes could be draining your vitality. You’ll learn how to support your energy at the cellular level by optimizing sleep, hydration, and nutrition; balancing blood sugar; nourishing adrenal health; and reducing toxic burden. We share practical tips you can start today— like getting morning sunlight, staying on a regular sleep-wake cycle, eating protein with every meal, and supporting detox through simple food and lifestyle swaps. This episode is your roadmap to sustainable energy and true root-cause healing. Don’t miss an episode—subscribe today on your favorite platform!
    • Apple Podcasts: Subscribe here
    • Spotify: Subscribe here
    • Or wherever you get your podcasts!
    Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Email us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you! Please leave us a review if you find this podcast insightful and beneficial. Your health transformation starts here! Follow Our Business Platforms! Stay connected and follow our three platforms for health, performance, and rehabilitation insights:
    1. True North Performance
      • Website: TrueNorthPerform.com
      • Instagram: @true_north_kelly1 & @truenorthperformancewisconsin
      • Facebook: True North Performance
    2. Uplifted Oncology Rehab
      • Website: UpliftedOncologyRehab.com
      • Instagram: @upliftedoncology
      • Facebook: Uplifted Oncology Rehab
    3. Innate Healing and Performance
      • Website: InnateHealingAndPerformance.com
      • Instagram: @dr.kymberly.klimek
      • Facebook: Innate Healing and Performance
    20 min
  • Less Tox, More Thrive – How to Clean Up Your Home (and Health)
    In this episode of The Integrative Edge, we uncover the hidden toxins in everyday products that quietly disrupt your hormones, gut, energy, mood, and overall vitality. From BPA in water bottles to PFAS in non-stick pans, these endocrine-disrupting chemicals often act as xenoestrogens—mimicking hormones and contributing to symptoms like PMS, fatigue, brain fog, and more. You’ll learn simple, impactful swaps to reduce your toxic load and support long-term health—like choosing BPA- and fragrance-free products, using glass or stainless steel instead of plastic, and upgrading your beauty and cleaning routines. It’s not about doing it all at once—it’s about becoming aware and making cleaner choices one step at a time. Tune in and take the first step toward a less toxic, more vibrant life. Some clean source examples: 
    • For Women (companies for clothes, beauty, skincare products, essential oils, herbs, tinctures, cleaning agents, toiletries, deodorant, etc.): Pact, Primally Pure, Rowe Casa, Salt & Stone, Credo Beauty, Organic Olivia, Branch Basics, DoTerra, Sky and Sol (safe face & body SPF sunscreen), Zebra (www.yayzebra.com) clean toothpaste/dental products, Earthley
    • For Men (clean skin, body care): Brickell, OM4 organic male, Grown Alchemist
    • Local stores in Green Bay/De Pere, WI area: Sweet Willow Herbal in De Pere, Favoryt in Allouez, Verde in De Pere
    Don’t miss an episode—subscribe today on your favorite platform!
    • Apple Podcasts: Subscribe here
    • Spotify: Subscribe here
    • Or wherever you get your podcasts!
    Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Email us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you! Please leave us a review if you find this podcast insightful and beneficial. Your health transformation starts here! Follow Our Business Platforms! Stay connected and follow our three platforms for health, performance, and rehabilitation insights:
    1. True North Performance
      • Website: TrueNorthPerform.com
      • Instagram: @true_north_kelly1 & @truenorthperformancewisconsin
      • Facebook: True North Performance
    2. Uplifted Oncology Rehab
      • Website: UpliftedOncologyRehab.com
      • Instagram: @upliftedoncology
      • Facebook: Uplifted Oncology Rehab
    3. Innate Healing and Performance
      • Website: InnateHealingAndPerformance.com
      • Instagram: @dr.kymberly.klimek
      • Facebook: Innate Healing and Performance
    40 min
  • The Truth About Inflammation – Why Your Labs Are Normal But You Still Feel Off
    In this episode, we’re diving into the real truth about inflammation.  You might hear “inflammation” and think of it as a bad thing, something to always avoid, but here’s the kicker: we couldn’t live without it!   We discuss the difference between acute and chronic inflammation –with chronic inflammation, being linked to everything from heart disease and diabetes to autoimmune conditions and even some cancers.  We’ll explore how simple changes can make a world of difference in turning off that harmful internal fire and restoring your body’s balance.  
    Don’t miss an episode—subscribe today on your favorite platform!
    • Apple Podcasts: Subscribe here
    • Spotify: Subscribe here
    • Or wherever you get your podcasts!
    Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Email us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you! Please leave us a review if you find this podcast insightful and beneficial. Your health transformation starts here! Follow Our Business Platforms! Stay connected and follow our three platforms for health, performance, and rehabilitation insights:
    1. True North Performance
      • Website: TrueNorthPerform.com
      • Instagram: @true_north_kelly1 & @truenorthperformancewisconsin
      • Facebook: True North Performance
    2. Uplifted Oncology Rehab
      • Website: UpliftedOncologyRehab.com
      • Instagram: @upliftedoncology
      • Facebook: Uplifted Oncology Rehab
    3. Innate Healing and Performance
      • Website: InnateHealingAndPerformance.com
      • Instagram: @dr.kymberly.klimek
      • Facebook: Innate Healing and Performance
    21 min
  • Stress is a Symptom, Not a Diagnosis – What Your Anxiety and Burnout Are Trying to Tell You
    In this episode, we discuss how stress is your mind and body’s alarm system, signaling that there might be an underlying issue - Similar to fever telling you that your body is fighting something off.  Understanding this distinction is the first step toward truly addressing and alleviating its grip.  Don’t miss an episode—subscribe today on your favorite platform!
    • Apple Podcasts: Subscribe here
    • Spotify: Subscribe here
    • Or wherever you get your podcasts!
    Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Email us at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you! Please leave us a review if you find this podcast insightful and beneficial. Your health transformation starts here!Follow Our Business Platforms! Stay connected and follow our three platforms for health, performance, and rehabilitation insights:
    1. True North Performance
      • Website: TrueNorthPerform.com
      • Instagram: @true_north_kelly1 & @truenorthperformancewisconsin
      • Facebook: True North Performance
    2. Uplifted Oncology Rehab
      • Website: UpliftedOncologyRehab.com
      • Instagram: @upliftedoncology
      • Facebook: Uplifted Oncology Rehab
    3. Innate Healing and Performance
      • Website: InnateHealingAndPerformance.com
      • Instagram: @dr.kymberly.klimek
      • Facebook: Innate Healing and Performance
    29 min

About The Integrative Edge

From the publisher's feed

Your go-to podcast for functional health and holistic movement. 

Hosted by Dr. Kym Klimek, Kelly Demers, and Dr. Lindsay Seefeldt.