The Well Nurtured Brain

In this short and sweet episode of the Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Pam gives you the inside scoop on all the extra goodness happening beyond the episodes on the podcast. From where to find exclusive bonus content to our upcoming newsletter material this is worth the listen. Hint: She drops the location of some hidden bonus content right in this episode.

Connect with Dr Pam: Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Pamela Hutchison sits down with physiotherapist and concussion specialist Natasha Wilch to explore the critical importance of early concussion assessment. They discuss why seeking care within the first 10 days after a potential injury — even if symptoms seem minor or delayed — can make a significant difference in recovery. Natasha also breaks down a common misconception: you don't have to experience a direct blow to the head to sustain a concussion. Together, they shed light on the subtle signs of brain injury, the science behind early intervention, and how proactive care nurtures better long-term outcomes. Whether you're an athlete, parent, or healthcare professional, this conversation offers vital insights you won't want to miss.

Natasha is a registered physical therapist, entrepreneur, and nationally recognized leader in neurological rehabilitation and concussion care. She's the founder of Symphony Brain Performance at Concussion Rehab Clinic based in Nanaimo, BC and concussion nerds, where she mentors clinicians and advocates for a new standard in brain health, passionate about whole person care and clinician wellbeing.

Connect with Natasha:

Natasha's instagram www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch Link to The Clinician's Edge: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge Concussion Mini-School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool Listen to the Concussion Nerds Podcast Learn more about the Concussion Nerds Clinical Mentorship Program

Connect with Dr Pam: Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com Email: [email protected]

Did you know the microbes in your gut actually outnumber your human cells? In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Pamela Hutchison explores the fascinating world of the gut microbiome—a vast community of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms that live in your large intestine and play a major role in both physical and mental health. From birth, our microbiome is shaped by everything from genetics and diet to stress levels, pets, and even sun exposure.

She'll dive into how this ever-changing ecosystem communicates with the brain through the gut-brain axis, influencing mood, behavior, and potentially even depression. If you enjoyed our episode "Brain Talks: Mind the Gut with Dr. Bretz," this one takes the conversation even deeper, offering fresh insight into how you can better support your gut for mental well-being.

Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com Email: [email protected]

Episode References:

Nikolova VL, Cleare AJ, Young AH, Stone JM. Updated Review and Meta-Analysis of Probiotics for the Treatment of Clinical Depression: Adjunctive vs. Stand-Alone Treatment. J Clin Med. 2021;10(4):647. Published 2021 Feb 8. doi:10.3390/jcm10040647

In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain Dr Pam explores the question "Can exercise help to manage MS". She will dive into the research on how physical activity impacts MS symptoms, progression, and overall well-being. She will also break down expert recommendations for movement, from low-impact options to strength training, and explain how neurological reserve plays a key role in maintaining function.

Chock full of valuable information, this episode is a must-listen if you have recently been diagnosed with MS, been living with it for years or supporting someone with MS.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

1. How exercise benefits people with MS (spoiler: it's not just about mobility!)

2. What current research says on movement and MS symptom management

3. What "neurological reserve" means and why it's important

4. How to adapt workouts to prevent fatigue and overheating

And there's more! Head over to our website for exclusive bonus content! www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com

Connect with Dr Pam: Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com Email: [email protected]

Episode References:

Kjølhede, T., Siemonsen, S., Wenzel, D., Stellmann, J. P., Ringgaard, S., Pedersen, B. G., Stenager, E., Petersen, T., Vissing, K., Heesen, C., & Dalgas, U. (2018). Can resistance training impact MRI outcomes in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis?. Multiple sclerosis (Houndmills, Basingstoke, England), 24(10), 1356–1365. https://doi.org/10.1177/1352458517722645

Proschinger, S., Kuhwand, P., Rademacher, A., Walzik, D., Warnke, C., Zimmer, P., & Joisten, N. (2022). Fitness, physical activity, and exercise in multiple sclerosis: a systematic review on current evidence for interactions with disease activity and progression. Journal of neurology, 269(6), 2922–2940. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-021-10935-6

https://mstrust.org.uk/information-support/ms-drugs-treatments/disease-modifying-drugs-dmds

Kim, Y., Lai, B., Mehta, T., Thirumalai, M., Padalabalanarayanan, S., Rimmer, J. H., & Motl, R. W. (2019). Exercise Training Guidelines for Multiple Sclerosis, Stroke, and Parkinson Disease: Rapid Review and Synthesis. American journal of physical medicine & rehabilitation, 98(7), 613–621. https://doi.org/10.1097/PHM.0000000000001174

In this episode of The Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Pamela Hutchison welcomes Dr. Kim Bretz, a gut focused Naturopathic Doctor and educator.

Together, they'll unpack the complex and often misunderstood gut-brain connection, highlighting the importance of clinical humility and curiosity in tackling complex gut issues. They'll explore the nuances of visceral hypersensitivity and sensitization, shedding light on why bloating is often more than just gas.

Dr. Kim Bretz, a naturopathic doctor with over two decades of experience in gut health and the gut-brain connection. Dr. Bretz is dedicated to helping people improve their quality of life by addressing digestive issues, low energy, hormonal imbalances, and the stress around food choices. Her approach combines cutting-edge research with real-world clinical experience, focusing on patient-centered care. As an adjunct faculty member at the University of Waterloo's School of Pharmacy, she has lectured extensively on microbiota, probiotics, and gut health, and has collaborated with leading health organizations on research and product development. Dr. Bretz holds certifications in the Monash Low FODMAP program and gut-directed hypnotherapy, reflecting her commitment to evidence-based care.

Connect with Dr. Bretz

Website: https://www.drkimbretznd.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkimbretznd

Public Course, Gut Check: https://discover.carryonhealthcollection.com/digestive-wellness-1?affiliate=5195850010

Connect with Dr. Pam

Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com Email: [email protected]

In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Pamela welcomes Jennifer Midlane, a Neuro-acupuncturist specializing in neurological conditions. Jennifer shares her personal journey of recovery from a brain injury and how it led her to pursue neuroacupuncture—a unique blend of traditional Chinese medicine and modern neurological insights. Together, they explore the fascinating role of acupuncture in migraine treatment, discussing research, including brain imaging studies and a landmark Cochrane review on its effectiveness. They also dive into the challenges of studying acupuncture, its impact on brain function, and how it offers a promising alternative for migraine sufferers, including those seeking drug-free options.

About Jennifer:

Jennifer, born and raised in Victoria, BC, draws inspiration from her Chinese heritage to promote longevity and wellness through Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Her passion for acupuncture and neurological health began after a brain injury from a car accident left her in a medically induced coma for ten days. While many health professionals aided her recovery, acupuncture was key to her full healing.

Motivated by her experience, Jennifer specializes in acupuncture for pain and neurological conditions. She graduated from Pacific Rim College in 2016, became licensed with CTCMA, and pursued advanced training in neuro-acupuncture. She holds certifications from the Neuro-Acupuncture Institute (NAI) and the Complete Concussion Management Institute (CCMI), studying under experts like Dr. Jason Hao, Dr. Poney Chiang, and Dr. Joseph Wong.

Jennifer integrates modern neuroscience with classical acupuncture to help those with conditions like stroke, MS, neuropathy, and Bell's Palsy. Inspired by her recovery, family, and nature, she is dedicated to improving lives through neuro-acupuncture

Connect with Jennifer:

Neuroacupuncture.com

Connect with Dr Pam: Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com Email: [email protected]

Episode References:

Al-Twaijri, W. A., & Shevell, M. I. (2002). Pediatric migraine equivalents: Occurrence and clinical features in practice. Pediatric Neurology, 26(5), 365–368. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0887-8994(01)00416-7

Burnstock, G. (2009). Acupuncture: A novel hypothesis for the involvement of purinergic signalling. Medical Hypotheses, 73(4), 470-472. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mehy.2009.05.031

Curatolo, M. (2024). Central sensitization and pain: Pathophysiologic and clinical insights. Current Neuropharmacology, 22(1), 15-22. https://doi.org/10.2174/1570159X20666221012112725

Evidence Based Acupuncture. (n.d.). Home. https://www.evidencebasedacupuncture.org/

Fried, N. T., Elliott, M. B., & Oshinsky, M. L. (2017). The role of adenosine signaling in headache: A review. Brain Sciences, 7(3), 30. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci7030030

Gelfand, A. A., Goadsby, P. J., & Allen, I. E. (2015). The relationship between migraine and infant colic: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Cephalalgia, 35(1), 63-72. https://doi.org/10.1177/0333102414534326

Huang, M., Wang, X., Xing, B., Yang, H., Sa, Z., Zhang, D., Yao, W., Yin, N., Xia, Y., & Ding, G. (2018). Critical roles of TRPV2 channels, histamine H1, and adenosine A1 receptors in the initiation of acupoint signals for acupuncture analgesia. Scientific Reports, 8(1), 6523. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-24654-y

Jiang, Y., Bai, P., Chen, H., Zhang, X., Tang, X., Chen, H., Hu, Y., Wang, X., Li, X., Li, Y., & Tian, G. (2018). The effect of acupuncture on the quality of life in patients with migraine: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 9, 381098. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2018.01190

Jin, G., Jin, L. L., Jin, B. X., Zheng, J., He, B. J., & Li, S. (2023). Neural control of cerebral blood flow: Scientific basis of scalp acupuncture in treating brain diseases. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 17, 1210537. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2023.1210537

Linde, K., Allais, G., Brinkhaus, B., Fei, Y., Mehring, M., Vertosick, E. A., Vickers, A., & White, A. R. (2016). Acupuncture for the prevention of episodic migraine. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2016(6), CD001218. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD001218.pub3

Liu, L., Tian, T., Li, X., Wang, Y., Xu, T., Ni, X., Li, X., He, Z., Gao, S., Sun, M., Liang, F., & Zhao, L. (2021). Revealing the neural mechanism underlying the effects of acupuncture on migraine: A systematic review. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 15, 674852. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2021.674852

Liu, S., Luo, S., Yan, T., Ma, W., Wei, X., Chen, Y., Zhan, S., & Wang, B. (2021). Differential modulating effect of acupuncture in patients with migraine without aura: A resting functional magnetic resonance study. Frontiers in Neurology, 12, 680896. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2021.680896

Rimmele, F., Müller, B., Becker-Hingst, N., Wegener, S., Rimmele, S., Kropp, P., & Jürgens, T. P. (2023). Medication adherence in patients with cluster headache and migraine: An online survey. Scientific Reports, 13(1), 4546. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-30854-y

Schnyer, R. N., & Hullender Rubin, L. (2020). Overcoming barriers in clinical acupuncture research: Translating clinical practice into fundamental science. Medical Acupuncture, 32(6), 388-390. https://doi.org/10.1089/acu.2020.1479

Takano, T., Chen, X., Luo, F., Fujita, T., Ren, Z., Goldman, N., Zhao, Y., Markman, J. D., & Nedergaard, M. (2012). Traditional acupuncture triggers a local increase in adenosine in human subjects. Journal of Pain, 13(12), 1215-1223. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpain.2012.09.012

In this eye-opening episode of The Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Pam welcomes Dr. Cameron McCrodan, an optometrist and leading expert in neurovisual performance. Together, they explore how our eyes and brain work in tandem - not just to see clearly, but influencing everything from dizziness and migraines to reading, focus, and mental stamina. Dr. McCrodan explains why traditional eye exams often miss crucial elements of visual function, how modern life places unnatural demands on our vision, and how we can improve cognitive performance and overall well-being through our vision care.

About Dr. McCrodan: Dr. Cam McCrodan is an optometrist and leading expert in neurovisual performance, known for bringing an engineering mindset to optometry. With a foundation in engineering, Dr. McCrodan takes a systematic and innovative approach to understanding the intricate connection between the eyes and brain. His groundbreaking work focuses on how this system impacts various conditions and symptoms, such as:

• Concussions and their lingering effects
• ADHD and dyslexia
• Migraines and headaches
• Chronic dizziness and balance problems
• Cognitive fatigue and reduced focus

Dr. McCrodan's approach goes beyond traditional eye care, addressing key visual functions like binocular vision, eye tracking, depth perception, and visual-vestibular integration. By improving these areas, he helps patients reduce cognitive strain and enhance performance in reading, focus, and concentration. As well as cognitive performance and mental stamina, which will enhance every day living and daily tasks. Through his innovative clinic, Opto-mization Optometry, Dr. McCrodan provides tailored treatments that transform lives by treating the root causes of visual dysfunction. His unique blend of technical expertise and patient-centered care offers solutions that optimize both brain and visual performance. Connect with Dr McCrodan: Website: https://optomize.ca/ Instagram: @optomize.vision TedTalk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0pljgXZ_GA

Connect with me: Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com Email: [email protected]

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In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain we are joined by Aaron Jones to discuss the intricate world of chronic pain, exploring how it affects every facet of life—from physical limitations to emotional resilience. We take a closer look at the often-overlooked connection between chronic pain and sleep disruptions, shedding light on the challenges of getting restorative rest when pain feels relentless.

Our discussion also features a deep dive into Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a complex and often misunderstood condition that adds unique layers to the experience of chronic pain. Aaron is a physiotherapist working in Victoria BC with a special interest in EDS. With insights including personal stories, and practical strategies, this conversation aims to educate, validate, and empower listeners navigating these challenges.

Whether you're living with chronic pain, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the science and lived experience of these conditions, this episode offers a compassionate and insightful perspective. Join us as we unpack the realities, break down the myths, and explore pathways to hope and healing.

Connect with Aaron Jones:

Aaron earned a Master Degree in Physiotherapy from the University of Sydney, Australia. Prior to that, he graduated with a Bachelor degree in Exercise Science and Rehabilitation from the University of Wollongong, Australia. Aaron has been a registered practicing physiotherapist throughout Australia, in New York City and right here in British Columbia.

Aaron is passionate about musculoskeletal physiotherapy with a special focus in chronic pain, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Fibromyalgia and Functional Neurological Disorder. You can find Aaron at Acacia Health in Victoria BC

Acacia Health Website

Articles written by Aaron Jones

Connect with me: Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: @the_well_nurtured_brain

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com Email: [email protected]

Resources:

Kent, P., Haines, T., O'Sullivan, P., Smith, A., Campbell, A., Schutze, R., Attwell, S., Caneiro, J. P., Laird, R., O'Sullivan, K., McGregor, A., Hartvigsen, J., Lee, D. A., Vickery, A., Hancock, M., & RESTORE trial team (2023). Cognitive functional therapy with or without movement sensor biofeedback versus usual care for chronic, disabling low back pain (RESTORE): a randomised, controlled, three-arm, parallel group, phase 3, clinical trial. Lancet (London, England), 401(10391), 1866–1877. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(23)00441-5

Oslo Chronic Fatigue Consortium, Alme, T. N., Andreasson, A., Asprusten, T. T., Bakken, A. K., Beadsworth, M. B., Boye, B., Brodal, P. A., Brodwall, E. M., Brurberg, K. G., Bugge, I., Chalder, T., Due, R., Eriksen, H. R., Fink, P. K., Flottorp, S. A., Fors, E. A., Jensen, B. F., Fundingsrud, H. P., Garner, P., … Wyller, V. B. B. (2023). Chronic fatigue syndromes: real illnesses that people can recover from. Scandinavian journal of primary health care, 41(4), 372–376. https://doi.org/10.1080/02813432.2023.2235609

Kourbanova, K., Alexandre, C., & Latremoliere, A. (2022). Effect of sleep loss on pain-New conceptual and mechanistic avenues. Frontiers in neuroscience, 16, 1009902. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2022.1009902

https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/

https://www.thelancet.com/series/low-back-pain

https://potsfoundation.org.au/dr-andrew-maxwell-keynote-speaker-pots-unmasked-2022/

Dr. Pradeep Chopra: Connecting Dots in EDS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zd1K2EL9VjI

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4681035/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553027/

https://www.thespidertool.com/

https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/research-update-the-spider-a-multisystemic-symptom-impact-tool-for-people-with-hypermobility-related-disorders-initial-validation-in-adolescents/

2023 Chronic Pain and Fatigue - Dr. Helen Cohen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NjE_X46hkY

https://karger.com/pps/article/90/1/11/294736

https://drricarseneau.ca/videos

The Role and Treatment of Autonomic Dysfunction in EDS-Associated Sleep Disorders - Dr. Alan Pocinki

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qwORNmMUks

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Join Dr. Pamela Hutchison, in our first official episode of season 2. In this episode she uncovers the mysterious world of dysautonomia and its connection to long COVID and POTS. In this enlightening episode of The Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Hutchison breaks down the complexities of the autonomic nervous system going awry, revealing how its dysfunction can lead to a wide range of challenging symptoms. From understanding the basics of blood pressure regulation to exploring examples of those affected, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone navigating the lingering effects of long COVID. Tune in to uncover the hidden impacts on your nervous system.

To access bonus content please subscribe to our newsletter via website listed below.

Connect with me: Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com Email: [email protected]

Episode Reference:

Vernino S, Bourne KM, Stiles LE, et al. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS): State of the science and clinical care from a 2019 National Institutes of Health Expert Consensus Meeting - Part 1. Auton Neurosci. 2021;235:102828. doi:10.1016/j.autneu.2021.102828

https://www.autonomicneuroscience.com/article/S1566-0702(21)00058-8/fulltext

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Welcome back to The Well Nurtured Brain!

In this exciting Season 2 premiere, Dr. Pamela Hutchison, a seasoned naturopathic doctor with 25 years of experience, returns to share updates and insights into brain, mental, and neurological health.

After a challenging year, Dr. Pam reflects on the opportunities that can arise from life's struggles and previews an enriching lineup of topics and guest experts. From demystifying dysautonomia and exploring exercise's impact on multiple sclerosis to uncovering the science behind brain health supplements, this season promises valuable content for your journey to optimal health. Tune in and discover how to turn challenges into growth.

Connect with me: Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com Email: [email protected]

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