In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Kate Kresge sits down with Cass Nelson-Dooley and Cat Simmons from Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory to explore the clinical applications of organic acids testing. You'll hear us discuss:

• How urine testing may offer different insights into metabolism compared to blood tests
  
  
• How urine tests may help identify patterns related to nutrient status without invasive testing
  
  
• Exploring how neurotransmitter metabolites may relate to mood and brain health
  
  
• Why organic acids testing may be a useful option for children, especially when blood draws are difficult
  
  

Cat Simmons, MS, RD, CDCES is a clinical dietitian with a master's degree in metabolic physiology and integrated exercise science from Colorado State University. With over 15 years of experience in laboratory diagnostics, she has worked across blood, stool, and urine testing platforms. At Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory, she plays a key role in test development and practitioner education, particularly in making complex biochemical concepts accessible and clinically applicable. Her background in sports performance nutrition and metabolism uniquely positions her to help practitioners understand and implement organic acids testing in clinical practice.

Cass Nelson-Dooley, MS, studied medicinal plants in the rain forests of Panama, in 2003 as a Fulbright Scholar, and then launched a career in science and natural medicine. She researched the pharmacology of medicinal plants at the University of Georgia and AptoTec, Inc, and then joined the innovators at Metametrix Clinical Laboratory, then Genova Diagnostics. She has over 18 years of experience teaching clinicians about integrative and functional laboratory results. At Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory, she analyzes metabolomics and gut microbiome tests and develops educational tools. Ms. Nelson-Dooley owns Health First Consulting, LLC, a medical writing, patient education, and consulting firm that serves the integrative and functional medicine industry. Ms. Nelson-Dooley is the author of Heal Your Oral Microbiome and has published case studies, book chapters, and journal articles about natural medicine, nutrition, and laboratory testing.

Labs Mentioned:

• Organic Acids Test
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
• GI-MAP Stool Test
• Neurotransmitter Testing
• Vitamin B6 Testing
  
  

Guest Details:

• Cass Nelson-Dooley's Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Book
• Cat Simmons' LinkedIn
• Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory Website

Rupa Health Details:

• Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube
• Rupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine
• Dr. Kate Kresge’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube & Twitter
• Dr. Kate Kresge on Podcast

Timestamps
03:07 - Experts' Journeys to Lab Testing
06:35 - The Simplicity of First Morning Urine Collection
08:44 - Metabolism and Energy Support from Urine Markers
11:54 - Glutathione and Detoxification Pathways
14:32 - How Urine Testing May Reflect Gut Microbiome Imbalances
19:52 - Observing Patterns Related to Wellness
24:20 - What Plant Compounds Like Quercetin May Suggest About Dietary Intake
28:14 - Exploring Cortisol and Cortisone Patterns in Urine Testing
32:22 - Neurotransmitter Metabolites and Their Potential Links to Mood and Brain Health

39:17 - The Test's Accessibility: Affordable Price and Valuable Insights

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we explore the importance of nutrition and lifestyle changes in managing migraines with Dr. Rudrani Banik. You’ll hear us discuss:

• Dr. Banik's functional medicine approach to managing migraines
  
  
• Migraine symptoms and causes
  
  
• How to identify and eliminate trigger foods for migraine relief
  
  
• The gut-brain connection in migraine management
  
  

Dr. Rudrani Banik is a Board-certified Ophthalmologist and Neuro-Ophthalmologist with fellowship training and expertise in Functional Medicine. Skilled in ophthalmic surgery and Botox, she specializes in treating headaches and migraines. Dr. Banik is also the author of three books on eye health and nutrition: "Beyond Carrots: Best Foods for Eye Health A to Z," "Dr. Rani's Visionary Kitchen: Over 200 Recipes For Healthy Vision," and "Dr. Rani's Plant-Based Visionary Kitchen: Over 130 Plant-Based Recipes for Healthy Vision."

Labs Mentioned

• Food sensitivity testing
• IgG Test
• IgA Test
• IgE Test
• Stool Analysis
• Dry Spot Urine Test

Guest Details:

• Dr. Rudrani Banik’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok
• Dr. Rudrani Banik’s Books
• Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Website
• Migraine Supplements

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• Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube
• Rupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we navigate the impact of seed oils on your health and how to make healthier choices with Dr. Cate Shanahan. You’ll hear us discuss:

• The "hateful eight" toxic seed oils impacting your health
  
  
• The impact of seed oils on mitochondria and hormones
  
  
• Seed oils and menopause
  
  
• Prioritizing nutritious foods over seed oils
  
  

Dr. Cate Shanahan is a leading expert in nutrition and human metabolism with more than 20 years of clinical experience and a New York Times bestselling author of "The FatBurn Fix," "Deep Nutrition," and "Food Rules." Her specialty is addressing the root causes of metabolic damage and inflammation, which can lead to issues like autoimmunity, weight gain, diabetes, cancer, and accelerated aging. Alongside Dr. Tim DiFrancesco and NBA legend Gary Vitti, Dr. Cate created the PRO Nutrition program for the LA Lakers and helped develop a partnership between Whole Foods Market and multiple NBA teams.

Labs Mentioned:

• Cholesterol Levels
• Cholesterol HDL
• Cholesterol LDL
• Oxidized LDL
• Apolipoprotein B
• CRP (C-Reactive Protein)
• Oxidized Glutathione Levels
• Genova Test
• Antibody Test for Oxidized Cholesterol
  
  

Guest Details:

• Dr. Cate Shanahan’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube
• Dr. Cate Shanahan’s Books
• Hachette UK Website

Follow Rupa Health! 👇

• Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube
• Rupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Yael Joffe joins Dr. Kate Kresge to discuss her remarkable journey from architecture student to nutrigenomics pioneer, driven by a personal loss that left her searching for answers. You’ll hear us discuss:

• The role of genetic insights in supporting personalized wellness approaches
  
  
• 3X4 Genetics innovative approach to genetic testing
  
  
• The challenges of bringing genetics into clinical practice
  
  
• How AI might reshape the field
  
  

Dr. Joffe is a pioneering figure in nutrigenomics and the founder of 3X4 Genetics. Originally from South Africa, she began her career studying architecture before pivoting to dietetics following her grandmother's battle with cancer. Driven to understand the intersection of genetics and nutrition more deeply, she pursued a PhD in genetics while working full-time. Throughout her career, Dr. Joffe has been instrumental in developing nutrigenomic testing methodologies, including the Darwin methodology used by 3X4 Genetics to analyze genetic markers for potential insights in personalized wellness. Additionally, Dr. Joffe is the author of The Power Of Genetics.

Labs Mentioned:

• 3X4 Genetics Test
• Detoxification Biomarkers
• DNA Life Tests
  
  

Guest Details:

• Dr. Yael Joffe’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Book
• 3X4 Genetics’ Website
• Manuka Science Website

Rupa Health Details:

• Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube
• Rupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine
• Dr. Kate Kresge’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube & Twitter
• Dr. Kate Kresge on Podcast

Timestamps

03:07 - From Art to Science

16:24 - Why PhDs Deserve More Credit

33:56 - The Birth of 3X4 Genetics

47:21 - AI’s Role in Genetics, Healthcare, and Research

53:55 - How 3X4 Chooses the Right Genes

01:05:27 - Why Every Clinician Should Consider Genetic Testing

01:08:14 - Clinical Application: A Detoxification Case Study

01:11:16 - The Future of Genetics

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we shed light on how menopause impacts the brain and how to successfully navigate this transition with Dr. Lisa Mosconi. You’ll hear us discuss:

• The impact of menopause on cognitive function and sleep
  
  
• The lack of research on women's brain health during menopause
  
  
• Brain fog during menopause
  
  
• How to assess brain health in menopause
  
  
• The Menopause Brain book
  
  

Dr. Lisa Mosconi is an Associate Professor in Neuroscience, specializing in Neurology and Radiology, at Weill Cornell Medicine. She also leads the Alzheimer's Prevention Program there and at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. Recognized as a leading neuroscientist, she has been among the top 1% in her field over the last 20 years. The Time named Dr. Mosconi one of the most influential living female scientists while ELLE International called her "the Mona Lisa of Neuroscience." She has published more than 150 peer-reviewed scientific articles and wrote "The Menopause Brain: New Science Empowers Women to Navigate the Pivotal Transition with Knowledge and Confidence."
Labs Mentioned

• Magnetic resonance spectroscopy
• ATP testing
  
  

Guest Details:

• Dr. Lisa Mosconi’s Website, Instagram, X
• The Menopause Brain Book
• Weill Cornell Medicine Website
• NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital Website

Follow Rupa Health! 👇

• Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube
• Rupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Carrie Jones sits down with Dr. Leedia Riman to explore the often-overlooked connection between women's hormones and oral health.

You'll hear them discuss:

• Why over 65% of women encounter dental disease during or after pregnancy
• How hormones like estrogen and relaxin impact your oral health
• Why oral dysbiosis leads to gut issues
• Practical oral care advice for women
  
  

Dr. Leedia Riman is a holistic dentist, specializing in women's oral health throughout different life stages. Her personal experience with hyperemesis gravidarum during pregnancy and following dental complications deepened her understanding of the connection between hormones and oral health. She takes an integrative approach to dentistry, focusing on the relationship between oral health, hormones, and overall wellness. Dr. Riman currently runs the R Dental Group and is particularly passionate about building bridges between dental care and other medical specialties for comprehensive women's health care.

Labs Mentioned

• Oral DNA Test
• Micronutrient Testing
• Hormone Testing
  
  

Guest Details:

• Dr. Leedia Riman’s Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok
• R Dental Group Website

Rupa Health Details:

• Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube
• Rupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine
• Dr. Carrie Jones Website, Instagram, Facebook & TikTok

Timestamps

00:12 - The Oral-Vaginal Connection

05:38 - Common Oral Symptoms During Pregnancy

07:57 - How Oral Dysbiosis Impacts Gut Health

15:43 - Oral Health in Perimenopause and Menopause

19:07 - The Mysterious Burning Mouth Syndrome

24:53 - Oral Care for Every Stage

30:09 - Supplements That Support Oral and Overall Health

36:19 - Postpartum Oral Health

41:21 - Personalized Protocols for Perimenopause and Menopause

50:07 - Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste and Other Safe Oral Care Products

52:47 - Where to Find Dr. Leedia Riman

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Kate Kresge sits down with Trevor Connor and Dr. Griffin McMath of The Paleo Diet to explore why the Paleo diet is more relevant than ever in today's world of extreme dieting. 

You'll hear them discuss:

• How modern food processing has introduced foods our bodies aren't designed to digest
• How grains, dairy, and ultra-processed foods may impact overall health and digestion
• The health benefits of following a paleo lifestyle
• How the paleo diet supports sustainability, budget-friendly eating, and even brain health
• The practical aspect of adopting a paleo diet
  
  

Trevor is the CEO of The Paleo Diet and Co-Founder of Fast Talk Laboratories. A former professional cyclist who competed until age 53, his journey with the paleo diet began when he was a student at CSU studying under Dr. Loren Cordain, the diet's originator. Initially skeptical, his attempts to disprove the diet's principles led him to become one of its strongest advocates after experiencing significant improvements in his own health and athletic performance.
Dr. McMath is the Chief Content Officer at The Paleo Diet, LLC, bringing her background in health advocacy and integrative healthcare to the team. She has a diverse career history having worked in academic integrative oncology partnerships, nonprofits within public and professional health education, and more. She now focuses on making the paleo lifestyle accessible and practical for diverse populations. Additionally, Dr. McMath is a Co-Host of Fast Talk Podcast. Previously, she was an Editor-at-Large at the Institute for Natural Medicine.

Labs Mentioned

• Zonulin Testing
• Lipopolysaccharides (LPS)
• TH17
  
  

Guest Details:

• Trevor Connor's LinkedIn, X
• Dr. Griffin McMath's Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok
• The Paleo Diet Website
• Fast Talk Laboratories Website, Podcast

Rupa Health Details:

• Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube
• Rupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine
• Dr. Kate Kresge’s Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube & Twitter

Timestamps

03:48 - Why Is the Paleo Diet More Important Than Ever?

10:03 - The Science of the Paleo Diet

20:26 - How Certain Compounds in Grains May Affect Digestion and Nutrient Absorption

25:16 - How Wheat Consumption May Influence Immune Responses in Some Individuals

32:57 - Are Beans Paleo?

36:07 - Dairy and Growth Hormones

47:03 - What Happens When You Go Paleo?

44:52 - Living a Paleo Lifestyle

58:40 - Celebrating Small Wins in Dietary Changes

01:03:02 - Paleo Diet Resources

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we shed light on adult ADHD, stress-success cycle, burnout, anxiety, and insomnia and how they can all be addressed using a root-cause approach with Dr. Romie Mushtaq. You’ll hear us discuss:

1. How stress and anxiety impact adult-onset ADHD
   
   
2. The "busy brain" and how it relates to anxiety, attention issues, and insomnia
   
   
3. The role of chronic stress in neuroinflammation and ADHD
   
   
4. How to manage ADHD symptoms through diet
   
   
5. "The Busy Brain Cure" book
   
   

Dr. Romie is an experienced neurologist and the author of "The Busy Brain Cure." With over 20 years in the field, she also serves as the Chief Wellness Officer at Evolution Hospitality and is the CEO and Founder of brainSHIFT Institute. Dr. Romie combines her extensive experience in neurology, integrative medicine, and mindfulness to offer impactful programs and drive cultural transformation.

Labs Mentioned

• Full thyroid panel
• High sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP)
• Vitamin D3 testing
• Morning cortisol level
• Methylation disorders screening
  
  

Guest Details:

• Dr. Romie Mushtaq’s Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X
• The Busy Brain Cure Book
• Wellness Evolved Podcast
• Great Wolf Lodge Website

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• Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube
• Rupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we explore the often-overlooked importance of brain health and how it directly impacts our quality of life with Dr. Austin Perlmutter. You’ll hear us discuss:

• Brain inflammation
  
  
• Brain-related conditions in women
  
  
• Detoxification and brain health
  
  
• Lifestyle choices supporting brain health
  
  
• Supplements for brain health
  
  

Dr. Austin Perlmutter is a board-certified internal medicine physician, a New York Times bestselling author, and a published researcher. He is also a health investor and international educator dedicated to helping people improve their health by addressing the biological roots of "stuckness" in the brain and body. Currently, Dr. Perlmutter serves as the executive director and research lead at Big Bold Health.

Labs Mentioned

• Computed tomography (CT)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
• Spinal tap
• Hemoglobin A1c testing
• Quinolinic acid testing
• Kynurenic acid (KYNA) testing
• C-reactive protein testing
• Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)
• Interleukin 6 testing
  
  

Guest Details:

• Dr. Austin Perlmutter’s Website, LinkedIn, YouTube
• Dr. Austin Perlmutter’s Books
• Big Bold Health Website
• Get The STUCK Out Podcast

Follow Rupa Health! 👇

• Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube
• Rupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Carrie Jones sits down with Dr. Cathleen King to explore how supporting nervous system health may play a role in overall well-being, stress management, and resilience. You'll hear us discuss:

• Why the nervous system plays a key role in overall function

• How trauma and stress may contribute to physical symptoms

• The connection between nervous system regulation and overall well-being

• Steps that may support nervous system balance and resilience

• How breath work and vagal tone can influence relaxation and stress response

Dr. Cathleen King is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a qualified Neuroplasticity Educator who has personally navigated the challenges of complex trauma and illness. As the founder of Primal Trust, she developed a unique approach that combines top-down brain retraining with bottom-up somatic and vagus nerve support. Featured in The Inside Effects documentary as a thought leader in mind-body wellness, Dr. King has guided thousands of clients and health professionals in techniques to support brain function and nervous system regulation.

Guest Details:

• Dr. Cathleen King's LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube
• Primal Trust’s Website
• Nervous System Dysregulation Quiz

Rupa Health Details:

• Rupa Health's Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube
• Rupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine
• Dr. Carrie Jones Website, Instagram, Facebook & TikTok

Timestamps

03:41 - What Sets Off Your Nervous System

05:15 - Understanding Your Body’s Command Center

07:06 - Why You Can't Rest and Fight at the Same Time

13:04 - How Chronic Illness and Trauma May Be Connected

18:10 - Scientific Insights into Nervous System Regulation

21:16 - The Role of the Vagus Nerve in Supporting Health

24:57 - How Different Breathing Practices May Affect Your Nervous System

29:40 - Brain Retraining: What It Is and How It Works

35:34 - The Right Time to Incorporate Somatic Practices

38:56 - Inside the Primal Trust Program

41:16 - Simple Steps to Start Your Path to Better Well-being

42:32 - Where to find Dr. Cathleen King