The Root Cause Resolution Podcast

By Vanessa VanderhoekAlternative Health Health & Fitness Nutrition

The Root Cause Resolution Podcast episodes

October 05Ep 13. How a Hidden Mold Problem Contributed to a Child’s Severe Eczema
A child’s eczema was being treated like a skin problem, but the real trigger was hiding in plain sight. This conversation reveals how one mum kept asking better questions until she uncovered the deeper drivers behind her daughter Marie’s relentless flares, infections, and misery.
Marie's mum, Ashleigh, in conversation with Vanessa unpack the long road from head-to-toe inflammation, staph infections, and nonstop scratching to a breakthrough no one had caught at the surface level. If you’re a parent dealing with stubborn eczema, or you’ve been told to just keep cycling through creams and supplements, this story will change the way you think about chronic skin issues.
You'll hear how Ashleigh tried everything from naturopaths and homeopaths to hospital antibiotics, why she refused to accept steroid creams as the whole answer, and what finally changed when mold testing, gut testing, and a more investigative approach entered the picture. Vanessa explains the connection between dust, mold, histamine, oxidative stress, and nervous system dysregulation, while Ashleigh shares what it was like living with a child who could barely rest without scratching until she bled.
We break down the practical changes that helped, including air purifiers, dehumidifiers, moving sleeping spaces, supporting the gut, and reducing exposure in a house that looked fine on the outside but was quietly feeding the problem. Ashleigh also shares the emotional side of the journey - the exhaustion, the frustration of not being heard, and the relief of finally finding someone willing to look deeper.
This episode matters because chronic eczema is often treated as one fixed diagnosis when the real story can involve multiple root causes working together. If you or someone you love feels stuck in the “same advice, same results” loop, this is a powerful reminder that there may be a smarter question to ask - and a better path forward. Perfect for parents, practitioners, and anyone who has been told to simply manage symptoms instead of finding the source. Marie’s turnaround is proof that persistent curiosity can change everything.

Key topics:
In this episode: Ashleigh explains why she started looking for help beyond standard care, after repeated eczema flare-ups and the limitation of steroid creams as the only offered solution.
Marie’s eczema had progressed into severe staph infections, including multiple infections in a row that required hospital antibiotics.
Ashleigh describes how Marie’s skin was red, raw, pustular, and constantly inflamed, with scratching so intense it led to bleeding and skin debris in bed every day.
Vanessa and Ashleigh discuss how the itch intensified when Marie was finally calm, asleep, or sitting still, suggesting a strong connection between nervous system settling and symptom awareness.
The conversation highlights how thorough environmental control was already in place, including daily vacuuming, sheet washing, and dust reduction, yet symptoms persisted.
Mold testing revealed high levels of current exposure and cellular stored mold, including inflammatory molds discussed as potential drivers of oxidative stress and kidney irritation.
Ashleigh shares that the house had no visible mold, but did have hidden damp issues, likely connected to blocked-off old chimneys and high moisture in the home.
A major turning point came when Marie was moved to a drier climate and a different sleeping area in the house, which led to a noticeable improvement within weeks.
Vanessa and Ashleigh discuss the idea of eczema as genetic predisposition plus multiple “fuel on the fire” factors, including dust, mold, allergens, histamine, and immune dysregulation.
Ashleigh reflects that the biggest shift was finding a practitioner who heard her, took the history seriously, and asked deeper questions instead of restarting from level one.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Why Ashleigh sought help for Marie’s severe eczema
02:36 - Staph infections, hospital antibiotics, and raw inflamed skin
0:15 - Constant scratching, disrupted sleep, and daily hysteria
07:50 - Why deeper testing was needed beyond diet and basic supplements
08:42 - Feeling heard after years of being told to start at level one
11:00 - How the move coincided with a major flare and led to mold testing
12:12 - Why kids cannot detox like adults
13:08 - Air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and liters of water removed from the air
14:26 - Hidden damp in the house and blocked-off chimneys
15:12 - A noticeable change after moving Marie’s sleeping space
16:37 - Relocating 10 hours north and reducing the daily load
18:23 - Eczema as genetics plus “fuel on the fire”
19:44 - How mold, dust, and allergens drive histamine and nervous system dysregulation
21:15 - What Marie looks like now at nine and a half
23:02 - Why persistence and curiosity matter in chronic skin conditions
24:59 - The value of integrative and functional medicine working together
25:28 - Why the hidden mold exposure mattered so much
26:37 - Recovery over roughly two years
28 min
September 21Ep 12. From Brain Injury to Award-Winning Paediatric Early Intervention Leader
Why Early Intervention Matters: Annabel Yagos on Holistic Care, Neuroplasticity, and Helping Children Thrive
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to navigate therapy, diagnoses, medications, and school support for your child, you’re not alone. For many families, the hardest part is not just finding help - it’s finding the right help, and making sure everyone is working together.
That’s exactly what Annabel Yagos has built her work around.
In this conversation, the founder of Leading Lights Early Intervention (Canberra, Australia) shares how her own childhood accident, years of rehabilitation, and lived experience shaped a clinic model that puts the child and family at the center of care. Her story is a powerful reminder that early intervention is not about labels alone - it’s about connection, collaboration, and seeing the whole child.

Key topics:
Annabel shares how a childhood house collapse caused a severe brain injury, long rehabilitation, paralysis on her left side, and ongoing sensory and neurological impacts.
Vanessa and Annabel discuss how lived experience shaped Annabel’s commitment to early intervention and her drive to be the one person who “gets” the whole child.
Annabel explains why she moved away from a solo practitioner mindset and built a team that can scale care while preserving warmth, compassion, and consistency.
In the episode: the importance of looking beyond diagnoses and deficits to find strengths, contributing factors, and practical ways children can thrive.
Annabel describes the clinic’s transdisciplinary model, where key workers collaborate daily with OT, speech pathology, play therapy, counselling, and other practitioners.
We discuss how initial consultations map a child’s full story, including pregnancy, birth, development, family context, trauma, feeding, and communication.
Annabel shares how parents are upskilled so strategies are consistent at home, school, and in clinic, reducing fragmented care.
The conversation covers neuroplasticity, brain development, and why Annabel is passionate about using current research to explain children’s behaviour and learning needs.
Vanessa and Annabel talk about the impact of screen exposure, blue light, and wireless devices on developing brains, and why current research matters to parents.
Annabel offers a direct message to parents: do not let checklists or assumptions place limits on what a child can do.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introducing Annabel Yagos and the story behind Leading Lights
02:04 - The house collapse, brain injury, and long rehabilitation
05:23 - Why Annabel wanted one person who understood the whole child
07:52 - From bullying and loss to resilience and self-belief
09:23 - Living with ongoing disability, strokes, and blindness episodes
11:18 - Why deficit based therapy still misses the bigger picture
14:11 - Upskilling parents so care continues at home and school
16:14 - Wheelchair use, fatigue, and the reality of high school recovery
18:16 - Family separation, high school sweethearts, and building a life
19:39 - Toxic bosses, leadership lessons, and no hierarchy in the clinic
21:16 - Studying neuroscience and translating research into practice
23:05 - Research participation, carotid artery closure, and neuroplasticity
25:43 - Screen time, myelin, and the changing brains of children
27:18 - EMR, blue light, Bluetooth, and concerns about brain health
29:22 - Why Annabel pushes back on device use for young children
30:40 - The children and families Leading Lights supports
33:38 - What the initial consultation covers and why it matters
36:16 - Birth history, trauma, and matching families with the right key worker
39:47 - How Leading Lights’ model differs from standard key worker systems
42:42 - Working together across disciplines, medications, and behavior support
44:22 - What Annabel would say to her 12-year-old self
48:27 - Why parents should not let checklists define a child’s limits
49:51 - Closing reflections on the clinic and the work ahead

Resources & Links:
You're invited to book a complimentary Discovery Call with Vanessa here - https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/contact
Watch more videos on The Healthy Gut Nutritionist's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@thehealthygutnutritionist/videos

Disclaimer
The information shared in The Root Cause Resolution podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
Any stories, practitioner insights, or lived experiences discussed reflect individual experiences only and do not represent typical outcomes or guarantees of benefit.
You are encouraged to seek personalised medical advice from their healthcare provider regarding any health condition, symptoms, or treatment decisions.
48 min
September 07Ep 11. From Extreme Exhaustion to Vibrant Energy: Holly’s Health Turnaround
In this conversation, Holly shares her powerful health journey from feeling exhausted and stuck in survival mode to finally getting answers that explained what was happening in her body. She and Vanessa discuss the limits of standard blood tests, the value of functional testing, and how looking at B12, iron, vitamin D, omega-3 balance, and genetics helped uncover the missing pieces. Holly also opens up about how targeted support, better nutrition, and a more personalised approach changed her energy, mood, and confidence. This episode is a hopeful reminder that if you’re still searching for answers, there may be more to the story than “normal” test results.

Main topics:
Holly’s experience with severe fatigue after having children
Why standard blood tests can miss deeper issues
The value of functional and metabolic testing such as organic acid urine, nutrigenomics/genetic, fatty acids
B12, folate, iron, and vitamin D as key fatigue markers
How genetics and cellular health shaped the treatment approach
The role of omega-3 balance in energy, mood, and brain fog
How the 21-day detox influenced energy and skin health
Why listening to body feedback matters
Encouragement for listeners who feel dismissed or stuck

Timestamps:
00:01 — Introduction and Holly’s story
01:25 — Holly describes the exhaustion and low energy
03:53 — How Holly found Vanessa
06:36 — Normal blood tests but ongoing symptoms
10:30 — Wanting answers instead of guessing
11:35 — Why deeper testing mattered
15:34 — Vitamin D and functional ranges
17:15 — B12 and folate results
18:30 — Why blood B12 doesn’t always reflect cellular use
21:27 — Hydroxy vs methyl B12
22:41 — Ferritin and iron discussion
25:43 — Organic acid and genetic testing
29:57 — B12 injections and changing forms
31:45 — Genetics, symptoms, and the bigger picture
34:42 — Omega-3 test results and significance
38:35 — The 21-day detox and dietary changes
42:39 — Protein, skin improvements, and energy
45:36 — Taking responsibility for your health
48:42 — Advice for listeners who are still searching

Resources & Links:
You're invited to book a complimentary Discovery Call with Vanessa here - https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/contact
Watch more videos on The Healthy Gut Nutritionist's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@thehealthygutnutritionist/videos

Disclaimer
The information shared in The Root Cause Resolution podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
Any stories, practitioner insights, or lived experiences discussed reflect individual experiences only and do not represent typical outcomes or guarantees of benefit.
You are encouraged to seek personalised medical advice from their healthcare provider regarding any health condition, symptoms, or treatment decisions.
48 min
August 24Ep 10. Understanding Nutrigenomics: Beyond MTHFR
Discover how your genes influence health through nutrigenomics and learn why focusing solely on MTHFR oversimplifies the complex relationship between genetics, lifestyle, and health. In this episode, Vanessa Vanderhoek explores practical ways to personalise nutrition and lifestyle based on genetic insights.

Key Topics:
What is nutrigenomics and how do genes interact with food and environment
The role of epigenetics in gene expression and health
Why MTHFR is only a small piece of the genetic puzzle
How multiple genes and pathways influence health, energy, and disease risk
The importance of comprehensive genetic testing for personalized care
Using genetic insights to support autoimmune, hormonal, and chronic conditions
The analogy of genetics as driving on a highway with potholes and hazards
How lifestyle factors exacerbate or mitigate genetic predispositions
Real-life examples of genetic testing improving health outcomes
The value of working with knowledgeable practitioners for interpreting genetics

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to the misunderstood world of nutrigenomics
00:30 - How genes are instructions, not certainties
01:00 - Definition and scope of nutrigenomics
01:28 - The impact of epigenetics on gene expression
01:57 - Role of the MTHFR gene in methylation and health
02:23 - The complexity of genetic variants and health outcomes
03:19 - Personal story: Living with homozygous MTHFR C677T variant
04:18 - Importance of considering multiple genes in health
05:16 - How genetics can help address fatigue, anxiety, autoimmune issues
05:43 - Ensuring a holistic approach: linking genetics, symptoms, and lifestyle
06:11 - Visualising genes as potholes on a highway
07:07 - Lifestyle impacts on genetic expression and health
07:34 - The need for targeted testing: blood, urine, heavy metals
08:04 - Practical example: B12 utilization and energy improvements
09:01 - The broad influence of genetics on hormonal and mental health
10:00 - Supporting detoxification and neurotransmitter balance through genetics
10:56 - The power of genetic testing for lifestyle and treatment planning
11:23 - Case study: the transformative effect of personalised genetic insights
12:18 - Actionable use of nutrigenomic testing for personalised nutrition
12:47 - Why not all genetic tests are equally interpreted and utilized
13:12 - The importance of personalized care based on genetic patterns
13:40 - How genetics can guide disease prevention and longevity strategies
14:11 - Summarizing the importance and limitations of MTHFR
14:41 - Genes as part of a bigger network, not destiny
15:11 - Encouragement to explore genetic testing and personalized health planning
15:37 - Invitation for a free discovery call to learn more about genetic testing

Resources & Links:
You're invited to book a complimentary Discovery Call with Vanessa here - https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/contact
Watch more videos about nutrigenomics on The Healthy Gut Nutritionist's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@thehealthygutnutritionist/videos

Disclaimer
The information shared in The Root Cause Resolution podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
Any stories, practitioner insights, or lived experiences discussed reflect individual experiences only and do not represent typical outcomes or guarantees of benefit.
You are encouraged to seek personalised medical advice from their healthcare provider regarding any health condition, symptoms, or treatment decisions.
16 min
August 10Ep 9. Why Acupuncture Is More Than Needles: A Whole-Body Healing System Explained
Unlock the secret to genuine well-being with Dr. Qiang Chen, an acupuncturist whose journey from a young student to now spans four decades. Dr Chen reveals how a personal story—helping an elderly woman in Dubai—became the pivotal moment that confirmed his lifelong calling in Chinese medicine. He shares how his unique approach, blending traditional Chinese principles with modern scientific insights, creates a healing space where profound transformations happen, often beyond physical symptoms. Discover how Dr Chen’s analogy of the body as a computer—hardware, operating system, and electricity—underscores his holistic approach to health. You'll learn how acupuncture resets the body's natural healing processes, turning on your innate health power, much like a system control command. Dr Chen explains why the fear of needles is often the biggest barrier, and how a gentle, informed approach makes acupuncture painless and accessible, even for children. Plus, hear why building trust in the process is crucial to unlocking long-term wellness.

Key Topics:
The art and science behind acupuncture and Chinese medicine
How creating a safe, sacred space fosters healing and emotional release
The body's energy system: from chi to stem cells—what science is revealing
The importance of integrating positive psychology and emotional well-being into treatment
Practical tips for de-mystifying acupuncture, including the design of painless needles and guided experience
This episode matters because in a world overwhelmed by quick fixes and superficial solutions, Dr Chen reminds us of the power of restoring balance from within. Whether you're a health professional seeking holistic tools, a curious listener, or someone eager to explore natural health, you'll find inspiration here to embrace gentler, more effective pathways to vitality and peace. Perfect for anyone curious about acupuncture, holistic health advocates, or health professionals wanting a fresh perspective—this conversation offers a soft, empowering approach to wellbeing that anyone can start today. Dive into Dr Chen’s wisdom and discover how the quiet art of acupuncture can unlock a more vibrant, balanced you.

Timestamps:
00:01 - Vanessa introduces Dr Chen and his background in Tai Chi and acupuncture.
00:19 - Dr Chen shares his journey into acupuncture and experiences in different countries.
01:07 - Discussion on the philosophy and practice of acupuncture.
03:07 - Dr Chen shares personal stories that influenced his career.
08:25 - The role of energy (Chi) in healing.
28:34 - Discussion on the impact of acupuncture on children.
32:04 - Overview of the clinic's services and team.
37:04 - Vanessa and Dr Chen discuss the integrative approach at the clinic.
40:08 - Dr Chen talks about his self-care practices, including Tai Chi and cycling.
46:09 - The importance of rest and balance in life.

Resources & Links:
To learn more about the Dr Chen and the team at the Chenzen Wellness Centre (Kingston, Canberra Australia), also to book an appointment online, visit: www.chenzen.com.au
You're invited to book a complimentary Discovery Call with Vanessa here - https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/contact
Watch more videos on The Healthy Gut Nutritionist's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@thehealthygutnutritionist/videos

Disclaimer
The information shared in The Root Cause Resolution podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
Any stories, practitioner insights, or lived experiences discussed reflect individual experiences only and do not represent typical outcomes or guarantees of benefit.
You are encouraged to seek personalised medical advice from their healthcare provider regarding any health condition, symptoms, or treatment decisions.
43 min
July 27Ep 8. Unlocking the Power of Omega-3: Beyond Heart Health
In this episode, Vanessa Vanderhoek delves into the multifaceted benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, exploring their crucial role in not just heart health, but also in brain function, mood regulation, and overall cellular health. Discover why many people, despite a balanced diet, may still be deficient in these essential fats and learn how to optimize your omega-3 levels through diet and supplementation. Vanessa shares insights from her clinical practice, emphasising the importance of testing over guessing to achieve optimal health.

Main Topics:
Importance of Omega-3s Beyond Heart Health
Sources of Omega-3: EPA, DHA, and ALA
The Role of Omega-3 in Brain and Eye Health
Balancing Omega-3 and Omega-6 for Inflammation Control
Personal and Clinical Insights on Omega-3 Testing

Timestamps:
0:05 - Introduction to Omega-3 Fatty Acids
1:03 - Essential Fats and Their Sources
3:24 - Omega-3s and Cellular Health
4:48 - Impact on Brain Health and Mood
6:11 - Omega-3s in Eye and Gut Health
7:36 - The Importance of Testing Omega-3 Levels
10:03 - Case Study: Omega-3 and Long COVID Recovery
12:29 - Ideal Omega-3 Levels and Dietary Sources
14:20 - Choosing the Right Omega-3 Supplement
15:16 - Conclusion and Call to Action

Resources & Links:
You're invited to book a complimentary Discovery Call with Vanessa here - https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/contact
You can order a Zinzino Omega 3 Test with 2x BalanceOils (Mini Kit) - https://www.zinzino.com/shop/2020417878/AU/en-GB/products/premier-kits/910773
Note: While omega-3 supplements are generally considered safe and well tolerated, individuals taking blood-thinning medications, those with bleeding disorders, fish allergies, or those preparing for surgery should consult their healthcare practitioner before use. Always follow the recommended dosage unless otherwise advised by your healthcare provider.
Watch more videos on The Healthy Gut Nutritionist's YouTube channel -https://www.youtube.com/@thehealthygutnutritionist

Disclaimer
The information shared in The Root Cause Resolution podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
Any stories, practitioner insights, or lived experiences discussed reflect individual experiences only and do not represent typical outcomes or guarantees of benefit.
You are encouraged to seek personalised medical advice from their healthcare provider regarding any health condition, symptoms, or treatment decisions.
17 min
July 13Ep 7. From Surviving to Thriving: An Executive's Journey in Functional Medicine & Holistic Health
In this inspiring episode, Marie shares her transformative journey from a near-disabled state to vibrant health through the power of functional and integrative medicine. Discover how personalized nutrition, lifestyle changes, and trusting your intuition can unlock a life of vitality and resilience.

Main topics:
Marie's initial health struggles and medical investigations uncovering hidden disabilities
The role of organic acid testing, genetic insights, and internal toxin load in health recovery
How B6 toxicity and chronic infections affected her nervous system and energy levels
The significance of a holistic approach vs. traditional medical pathways
Key lifestyle changes that led to weight loss, hormonal balance, and improved mood
The benefits of group coaching, detox programs, 12-month Executive Edge program and continuous habit stacking
Practical advice for integrating functional medicine into your healthcare routine
The importance of maintaining optimism through health challenges
The value of trusting oneself and advocating for personalised health solutions
Trust your intuition if you suspect something is wrong despite normal tests

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: Marie’s health journey and why she decided to seek change
03:03 - The chain of falls and ongoing joint and nerve pain
04:27 - The limitations of conventional medical investigations
06:07 - Recognising cognitive decline and energy depletion
07:51 - Partnering with a functional medicine nutritionist for integrated care
09:00 - B6 toxicity discovered through blood testing and its impact
10:17 - The limitations of GPs in uncovering root causes
11:31 - How personalised testing uncovered hidden infections and genetic traits
12:50 - Collaborative care between GPs and functional medicine practitioners
14:33 - The connection between infections, nutrient depletion, and symptoms
17:08 - Organic acid testing and hidden infections' contribution to chronic health issues
18:45 - Weight loss, metabolic health, and the importance of focusing on health first
20:17 - Success with detox programs, new recipes, and sustainable habits
22:14 - The power of gradual lifestyle changes and group support
25:37 - How health improvements have transformed Marie’s life in her 50s
28:39 - The significance of genetic testing and food sensitivities
30:31 - Reducing gluten and dairy through personalized insights
32:30 - Maintaining metabolic health, blood sugar stability, and hormonal balance
35:23 - Practical steps to start your holistic health journey and the role of coaching

Resources & Links:
You're invited to book a complimentary Discovery Call with Vanessa here - https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/contact
Watch more videos on The Healthy Gut Nutritionist's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@thehealthygutnutritionist

Disclaimer
The information shared in The Root Cause Resolution podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
Any stories, practitioner insights, or lived experiences discussed reflect individual experiences only and do not represent typical outcomes or guarantees of benefit.
You are encouraged to seek personalised medical advice from their healthcare provider regarding any health condition, symptoms, or treatment decisions.
32 min
June 29Ep 6. Rethinking ADHD: Insights, Holistic Approaches, and the Power of Lifestyle Changes
Explore the complex world of ADHD from diagnosis to holistic management in this engaging discussion with Annabel Yagos, founder of Leading Lights. Discover how recent neuroscience, gut health, and lifestyle strategies are transforming our understanding and treatment of ADHD across all ages.

Key Topics:
The evolving landscape of ADHD diagnosis and gender disparities
How neuroscience and neuroplasticity influence treatment options
The role of gut microbiome and microbiota in ADHD symptoms
Impact of environmental, dietary, and lifestyle factors on brain health
Medications versus holistic, integrative approaches
The importance of early intervention and family-centered strategies
New educational policies and their influence on behavior management
Practical tips for parents to support their child's well-being naturally
The significance of self-care for parents and caregivers
Future directions in holistic ADHD management and research

Timestamps:
0:01 - Introduction to Annabel Yagos and the topic of ADHD
1:24 - Annabel's insights from her neuroscience studies
3:55 - Understanding ADHD diagnosis criteria
5:24 - Exploring hyperactivity and impulsivity
7:03 - Environmental factors affecting ADHD
9:21 - Differences in ADHD brain structure
13:01 - Recent findings on gut health and ADHD
17:51 - Medication effects and holistic approaches
30:02 - Challenges and strategies for parents
36:12 - Changes in educational approaches to ADHD
40:17 - Personal stories of dietary impact on mental health
48:11 - Final thoughts on empowering parents and children

Resources & Links:
You're invited to book a complimentary Discovery Call with Vanessa here - https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/contact
You can visit the Leading Lights website here - https://leadinglights.com.au/
Watch more videos on ADHD on The Healthy Gut Nutritionist's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@thehealthygutnutritionist/videos
You can read the Systematic Review discussed on ADHD and the gut microbiome here - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022395625006168

Disclaimer
The information shared in The Root Cause Resolution podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
Any stories, practitioner insights, or lived experiences discussed reflect individual experiences only and do not represent typical outcomes or guarantees of benefit.
You are encouraged to seek personalised medical advice from their healthcare provider regarding any health condition, symptoms, or treatment decisions.
48 min
June 15Ep 5. The Critical Warning Signs Your Gut Is Telling You, Before It’s Too Late
Discover the critical importance of gut health through Vanessa Vanderhoek's personal journey living with serrated polyposis syndrome (SPS). Learn practical steps you can take to support your gut and reduce long-term disease risks, especially during Bowel Cancer Awareness Month.
Vanessa shares her experience of living with serrated polyposis syndrome (SPS) and the significance of early detection in preventing colorectal cancer
The link between gut health, immune function, mood, hormonal balance, and chronic diseases
The diversity of gut microbes and the rainforest analogy for microbiome resilience
Factors negatively affecting gut health: plastic exposure, ultra processed foods, low fiber, stress, toxins, antibiotics, sedentary lifestyles
The #1 dietary recommendation: aim for at least 30 different plant foods weekly to boost microbiome diversity
The importance of fiber and hydration for bowel movements and gut health; characteristics of a healthy poop
Recognizing and addressing ongoing gut symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, blood, or mucus in stool
The significance of family history and early screening for bowel cancer starting at age 20
How gut microbiome testing can reveal microbial balance, diversity, and permeability issues
The role of conventional medicine alongside lifestyle actions in gut health management
Call to action: book a free discovery call, stay proactive, and don’t normalize gut issues

Timestamps:
00:00 - Vanessa's personal story with serrated polyposis syndrome and bowel cancer risk
00:30 - Importance of early detection and ongoing surveillance
01:28 - The significance of gut health beyond digestion: immunity, mood, and health
02:55 - Understanding the gut microbiome as a rainforest of microbes
03:46 - Impact of modern lifestyle, plastic, processed foods, toxins on gut health
04:43 - How to incorporate a variety of plants into your diet for microbiome health
09:01 - The connection between fiber, hydration, bowel movements, and gut resilience
11:23 - Recognising gut symptoms and the importance of medical screening
12:23 - Family history and when to start screening for bowel cancer
13:49 - Gut microbiome testing and its insights
14:19 - The importance of open communication about gut habits and symptoms
15:47 - Prevention, early intervention, and working with healthcare professionals
17:41 - Practical advice: lifestyle actions, probiotics, and resources for gut health

Resources & Links:
If you're over 45 years of age in Australia, order your free Bowel Cancer Screening test kit here - https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/national-bowel-cancer-screening-program
You're invited to book a complimentary Discovery Call with Vanessa here - https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/contact
Watch more videos on gut health on The Healthy Gut Nutritionist's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@thehealthygutnutritionist/videos

Disclaimer
The information shared in The Root Cause Resolution podcast is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
Any stories, practitioner insights, or lived experiences discussed reflect individual experiences only and do not represent typical outcomes or guarantees of benefit.
You are encouraged to seek personalised medical advice from their healthcare provider regarding any health condition, symptoms, or treatment decisions.
19 min
June 01Ep 4. Nourishing Your Body: The Power of Nutrition
Nourishing Your Body: The Power of Nutrition
In this enlightening episode, Vanessa Vanderhoek delves into the profound impact of nutrition on our overall health and well-being. She emphasises the importance of not just what we eat, but how our bodies digest, absorb, and assimilate nutrients. Vanessa shares practical tips for upgrading our diets in a manageable way, highlighting the significance of whole foods, fiber, and balanced meals. Through compelling stories and expert insights, she illustrates how small, consistent changes can lead to significant health improvements over time.
Main Topics:
The Role of Nutrition in Health
Understanding Modern Diets and Their Impact
Practical Tips for Dietary Upgrades
The Connection Between Gut Health and Mood
Real-Life Success Stories from Detox Programs
The Importance of Whole Foods and Balanced Meals
Strategies for Long-Term Nutritional Success
Timestamps:
0:01 - Introduction to Nutrition
0:29 - The Impact of Food on Health
1:22 - Modern Diet Challenges
2:22 - Identifying Ultra-Processed Foods
3:22 - Importance of Whole Foods
4:21 - Recommended Vegetable Intake
6:11 - Incorporating Fruits into Diet
7:08 - Balancing Protein and Healthy Fats
8:07 - Personal Nutrition Journey
9:31 - Gut-Brain Connection
10:59 - Success Stories from Detox Programs
14:22 - The Role of Supplements
15:51 - Cleaning Up Your Diet
18:15 - Reducing Sugary Drinks
19:38 - Planning Meals and Healthy Takeaways
20:39 - Importance of Breakfast
22:07 - Reading Food Labels
23:33 - Conclusion and Encouragement
25 min

About The Root Cause Resolution Podcast

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The Root Cause Resolution is a podcast exploring the biological, environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors that influence chronic and complex health conditions. If you’ve ever wondered why symptoms persist, why conditions overlap, or why treatments don’t always work as expected, this podcast offers a broader way of understanding health.

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About The Root Cause Resolution Podcast