This Healthy Life

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Beth Westie is a Functional Medicine Practitioner, chiropractor, and best-selling author dedicated to women's hormone health. After her own struggle with ovarian cysts led her beyond birth control to nutrition-based healing, she created the Eat for Your Cycle™ Method. Author of The Female Fat Solution and The Female Menopause Solution, and host of The Female Health Solution Podcast, she's helped thousands of women balance their hormones naturally through her Hormone Foundations Program and speaking engagements.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

- Dr. Beth Westie's background: grew up on a Minnesota goat farm, former athlete, licensed in acupuncture/Chinese medicine

- Her personal health story: recurring ovarian cysts after her third child, dismissed by conventional medicine, resolved through hormone regulation via Eastern medicine

- Core topic: the "3 AM wake up" and what drives it

- Cortisol's role: normal daily rhythm vs. chronic stress raising nighttime cortisol and triggering alertness

- Blood sugar dips around 2-3 AM causing adrenaline surges that jolt people awake

- Cortisol awakening response and the risk of it spiking too high, then crashing later in the day

- Estrogen/progesterone balance and how luteal-phase (weeks 3-4) progesterone drops affect GABA receptors and sleep depth

- Personal example of strength fluctuating across her cycle due to hormonal shifts

- Using wearables to track sleep and heart rate patterns tied to cycle phases

- The Dutch test (dried urine hormone panel) for assessing hormones, cortisol, neurotransmitters, and nutrients

- Blood testing for glucose, insulin, and A1C, plus continuous glucose monitors

- Thyroid function (TSH, T4, T3, antibodies) and its link to metabolism, detox, and sleep

- Chinese medicine organ clock, with 1-3 AM linked to liver detoxification of hormones

- Chronic stress accumulation ("rocks in a backpack" analogy) and women's tendency to self-neglect

- Resting heart rate benchmarks (under 70 bpm) and how it varies by cycle phase

- Comparing biometric data month-to-month (same cycle day) rather than day-to-day

- Gut health's impact on sleep: poor digestive motility causing overnight bloating and discomfort

- Histamine's connection to hormones: overproduction/poor clearance driving estrogen up in a feedback loop

- Iron/ferritin deficiency as a common nutrient gap affecting overall function

- Personalized, test-based treatment approach rather than one-size-fits-all protocols

- Melatonin and other sleep aids often being the wrong fix when melatonin levels are already sufficient

EPISODE RESOURCES

Oura RingTracks sleep, heart rate, and HRV overnight to show how your cycle affects your rest.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/OuraRing

Function Health

Get lab-tested insight into your thyroid, hormones, blood sugar, and nutrient levels.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/FunctionHealth

Swanwick

Block blue light in the evening to support your natural melatonin and wind down easier. 15% off with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/swanwick

Thorne

Clinical-grade iron and magnesium to help fill common nutrient gaps that impact energy, hormones, and sleep.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne

BiOptimizers

Support digestion and gut motility to ease overnight bloating. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/biooptimizer

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://drbethwestie.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/drbethwestie

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/drbethwestie

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@drbethwestie

YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@drbethwestie.com

KEYWORDS

3am wake up, insomnia, cortisol, blood sugar, hormones, progesterone, estrogen dominance, perimenopause sleep, thyroid, liver detox, histamine, gut health, Dutch test, sleep hormones, women's health

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Jill Carnahan, Your Functional Medicine Expert®, is dually board-certified and founder of Flatiron Functional Medicine. A survivor of breast cancer, Crohn's, and toxic mold illness, she uncovers root causes through advanced testing and personalized care. Her bestselling memoir Unexpected and documentary Doctor/Patient share her journey. A sought-after speaker, she inspires audiences with science-backed insight, authenticity, and humor.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Bring dust sample kits (ERMI-style, e.g. Immunolytics) on every showing to test surfaces before making an offer.
• Learn visual red flags: warped floorboards, stained ceilings/corners, bathroom tile growth, and stucco type/installation quality.
• Keep a trusted mold inspector on call to do informal walkthroughs before an offer is made.
• Ask sellers pointed questions (dishwasher leaks, shower leaks, etc.); most were surprisingly honest.
• She toured 40+ homes; about 80% had significant mold, even in Colorado's dry climate and in expensive, newer homes.
• Her real question wasn't "is there mold" but "where is it, how fixable, and what will it cost."
• One stucco issue quoted at $250,000+ was a dealbreaker; minor sink/window-well leaks were manageable and budgeted in.
• She went under contract five times, backing out four times after formal inspections revealed major issues.
• Deal-breakers: foundational problems, roof/siding/stucco-wide water intrusion, and oddities like an indoor jacuzzi, versus minor, containable issues like a single leaky sink.
• Sellers sometimes pushed back hard on repair-cost requests, so having a knowledgeable realtor was essential.
• New homes aren't automatically safer: poor drywall/tile installation and off-gassing (formaldehyde, granite) are common, while very old homes carry decades of leak history.
• Her "sweet spot": homes roughly 8 to 15 years old.
• Crawl spaces and long-term single-owners with strong maintenance records are strong positive signals.
• Filing a legitimate mold claim on a past condo made it harder to get new homeowners insurance.
• Testing approach: dust (ERMI-style) plus air samples plus bulk/swab samples on visible growth; toilets and wax seals are common failure points worth replacing preemptively.
• In Colorado, buyers can exit contracts via "inspection objection" without disclosing mold specifically; she chose whether to share findings with sellers as a courtesy.
• Basements/window wells need proper stone (not mulch) and drainage to prevent water intrusion.
• Post-purchase upgrades: whole-home water filtration, Moen Flo smart shutoff with leak sensors at every fixture, and multiple air filtration units.
• Her advice: budget and stage fixes over time (water/roof/siding first) rather than trying to remediate everything at once.

EPISODE RESOURCES 

AirDoctor

Hospital-grade purifier that traps mold spores, allergens & VOCs for cleaner, healthier indoor air.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/AirDoctor

Immunolytics

Order at-home testing for mold in your home.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Immunolytics

Aquasana

Whole-home water filtration that removes contaminants for cleaner, safer water straight from every tap.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquasana

Branch Basics

Non-toxic cleaning products, perfect for a mold-safe move-in deep clean. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% off.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BranchBasics

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.jillcarnahan.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/drjillcarnahan

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/FlatironFunctionalMedicine

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@DrJillCarnahan

KEYWORDS

mold-free home, house hunting mold, ERMI dust test, mold inspection, water damage, home buying tips, air purifier, water filtration

MEET THE GUEST

Jamie Goldman, MS, CN, NBC-HWC is a Health Coach at Viome and a member of the company's Precision Nutrition Science team. Jamie combines expertise in functional medicine, nutrition science, and health coaching to help people translate complex health data into practical, sustainable lifestyle changes.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Viome's at-home test kit: collect a sample, send to the lab, get a readout on gut and body-system function.
• Why Viome analyzes RNA, not DNA or blood biomarkers: RNA reflects active gene expression, not static genetic code.
• Stool RNA analysis reveals which gut microbes are present and what they're doing (e.g., methane gas production).
• Food recommendations target specific microbial activities: reducing trigger foods, adding foods that counter them.
• Why retesting every 4 to 6 months is recommended, giving enough time to see real change without overshooting.
• Supplements beyond food: vitamins, minerals, a 300+ ingredient plant extract library, probiotics, and prebiotic fibers.
• Why "gut-healthy" foods like yogurt and kombucha aren't universal (methane production, FODMAP sensitivity, sugar content).
• Viome users range from biohackers optimizing longevity to people with chronic, unexplained gut symptoms.
• The gut-brain axis: brain fog, low mood, fatigue, and poor cognitive clarity as signs of gut dysbiosis.
• Why generic probiotics are a gamble, versus matching strains to an individual's actual gut profile.
• A "healthy" microbiome means richness and diversity, like an old-growth forest versus an overgrown clear-cut.
• How antibiotics wipe out microbial diversity, and how to protect gut health during and after a course.
• Everyday gut disruptors: alcohol, sedentary behavior, chronic stress, and environmental toxins.
• Allergies (immune-driven, usually permanent), sensitivities (often from leaky gut, can resolve), and intolerances (genetic) differ.
• Emerging research: the estrobolome and estrogen metabolism, and the microbiome's link to bone density.
• Debunking carnivore: may ease GI symptoms short term but removing fiber isn't sustainable long term.
• Debunking juice cleanses: they strip fiber and effectively starve gut microbes.
• Best fiber sources: nuts, seeds, legumes, mushrooms, oats, hardier vegetables, and fruit.
• Prebiotic fiber types (FOS, PHGG) and why food-based fiber should come first, not just supplements.
• Starting advice: read ingredient labels, cut processed additives, and diversify diet with varied produce.

EPISODE RESOURCES 

Viome

Personalized gut health testing that analyzes your microbiome's RNA, with tailored food and supplement guidance.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/viome

Bulletproof

Innerfuel plant-based prebiotic fiber powder that feeds good gut bacteria. Save 20% with code TRAILTOHEALTH20.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/bulletproof

Breadsrsly

Naturally fermented, gluten-free sourdough breads and crackers. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH and save 15%.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BreadSRSLY

Thrive Market

Shop curated low-FODMAP and specialty diet groceries, making gut-friendly eating easier to find and afford.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ThriveMarket

Four Sigmatic

Mushroom-powered coffees, elixirs, and supplements packed with beta-glucan fiber for gut support. 20% off with code ERIKA83918.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/foursigmatic

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://www.viome.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/viome/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/viome

KEYWORDS

Gut health, microbiome, RNA testing, prebiotics, probiotics, fiber, dysbiosis

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Emily Kostelnik is a Clinical Health Psychologist specializing in vestibular disorders who brings both professional expertise and personal lived experience to her work. She is the founder of two organizations: Rooted Behavioral Education offers virtual behavioral health courses and coaching for those with chronic dizziness and The Vestibular Psychologist is private practice providing individual therapy and professional consultation to help clients reclaim a full and meaningful life.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Definition of the vestibular system, the inner ear's balance mechanism, working with vision and proprioception.
• Common inner-ear causes: BPPV (loose ear crystals) and Meniere's disease.
• Central/neurological causes: vestibular migraine and persistent postural perceptual dizziness (PPPD).
• Vestibular migraine is the most common cause of dizziness in women under 60, often without head pain.
• Motion sickness in childhood as a possible early marker of vestibular migraine.
• Why diagnosis is hard: it falls between ENT and neurology specialties.
• Right specialists to see: otologist/neurotologist, balance-focused neurologist, headache specialist, or vestibular physical therapist.
• Ruling out other causes first (anemia, cardiac issues) before a vestibular diagnosis.
• Symptoms often appear "suddenly" but are usually building for a long time (the "final straw" concept).
• Root causes: nervous system dysregulation, toxic load, gut dysfunction, liver/bile issues.
• Overlap with MCAS, POTS, hypermobility, and neurodivergence (ADHD/autism).
• Mold exposure and mycotoxins as a major contributor to inflammation and vestibular symptoms.
• Nutrient deficiencies commonly seen (iron, vitamin D, B vitamins) in patients.
• Infections like Lyme disease, H. pylori, and candida as possible triggers.
• Histamine and mast cell activation's role in vestibular symptoms, and use of antihistamines/low-histamine diets.
• Ongoing research into hypermobility, connective tissue disorders, and genetic pathway variants in vestibular migraine.
• Prevalence: vestibular migraine affects about 1 to 2% of the population; BPPV affects about 7%. It's more common in women, with a research funding gap.
• Treatment options ranging from simple (repositioning maneuvers for BPPV) to complex (preventive medications, supplements, physical therapy, psychotherapy, root-cause approaches).
• Advice for listeners: start with a primary care doctor or vestibular physical therapist; hope lies in CGRP medications and inflammation-focused research.

EPISODE RESOURCES 

Viome

Uncover the gut-histamine connection behind your dizziness with an at-home test.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/viome

Thorne

Supplements including Quercetin Phytosome, a highly absorbable antioxidant that helps regulate histamine release.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne

Pulsetto

A wearable vagus nerve stimulator that calms your nervous system in minutes.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Pulsetto

Earthing

Grounding products that calm nervous system dysregulation and reduce inflammation.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/earthing

Tick Tock Repellent

Natural tick protection to help prevent Lyme disease and its related complications.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ticktocknaturals

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.rootedbehavioraleducation.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/dremilykostelnik

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/dremilykostelnik

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/search?q=%40dremilykostelnik&t=1785699859015

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@rootedbehavioraleducation

KEYWORDS

vestibular disorder, vertigo causes, chronic dizziness, vestibular migraine, BPPV treatment, MCAS symptoms, histamine intolerance, mold toxicity, nervous system dysregulation, Lyme disease dizziness

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Torrie Thompson is a functional wellness practitioner, educator, and founder of Meraki Wellness Center. Known for her root-cause approach, she helps clients uncover hidden factors that may be impacting their health, including mold exposure, environmental toxins, heavy metals, gut dysfunction, and other overlooked stressors. After overcoming her own decade-long health journey as a young adult, Dr. Torrie made it her mission to help others find answers when conventional approaches have fallen short. Through advanced testing, she has helped thousands of clients pinpoint potential root causes of their health challenges so they can finally take control of their health.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Meraki Wellness Center's specialties: mold, Lyme, parasites, autoimmune disease, environmental toxins
• "Test, don't guess" approach to root-cause diagnosis
• Standard lab panel: organic acids, mycotoxins, environmental toxins, heavy metals, stool testing
• Treatment sequencing: mold/mycotoxins, then gut, then heavy metals/environmental toxins
• Urine vs. blood testing for mycotoxins
• Provocation methods before mycotoxin testing (exercise, sauna, lymphatic massage)
• Old or past mold exposure as a hidden, ongoing source of illness
• Food-based mycotoxins in peanuts, grains, and coffee
• Rising environmental toxin loads seen in testing, including in children
• Why a "clean" current lifestyle doesn't clear past toxic exposure
• Detox tools: binders, sauna, lymphatic support, hydration, inflammation reduction
• Prevalence of parasites in chronic illness, including in the US
• Drainage pathways: lymphatic system, liver, kidneys, gut
• Bowel movements and sweating as prerequisites for detox
• Long COVID's overlap with tick-borne illness and reactivated viruses (EBV, CMV)
• Rising rates of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS)
• Advanced testing: organic acids (OATs), neural zoomers, stealth infection panels
• Growing mainstream awareness of mold and toxin-related illness via social media
• Advice for starting a health journey: choosing a practitioner, using AI as a supplement, retesting to track progress

EPISODE RESOURCES 

Higher Dose

Infrared sauna blankets, PEMF mats & red light tools to support detox, circulation, and everyday recovery.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/HigherDose

AquaTru

Countertop reverse osmosis water filters that remove lead, PFAS, and chlorine.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquatru

AirDoctor

HEPA air purifiers designed to capture mold spores, VOCs, and ultrafine particles.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquatru

DesBio

Homeopathic drainage remedies to support the liver, lymphatic system, and detox pathways. Use this link for 5% off.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/DesBio

Quicksilver

Liposomal binders and liver-support formulas built to support detox and drainage pathways. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% off.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/QuicksilverScientific

ImmunoLytics

At-home mold testing kits with certified lab analysis, helping identify hidden indoor mold exposure.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Immunolytics

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.drtorriethompson.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/drtorriethompson

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/search?q=%40drtorriethompson&t=1785697467862

KEYWORDS

mold toxicity symptoms, mycotoxin testing, Lyme disease treatment, chronic illness root cause, environmental toxin detox, mast cell activation syndrome, parasite cleanse, liver detox support, lymphatic drainage, functional medicine practitioner, heavy metal detox, long COVID recovery

MEET THE GUEST

Jordan Glenn is the Head of Science at SuppCo, the app that personalizes and optimizes supplement routines. He holds a PhD in Exercise Physiology with a focus on nutrition, aging, and behavioral health, and has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed publications. As a scientist and researcher specializing in nutrition, supplements, and human health, Jordan is dedicated to translating complex science into practical, evidence-based guidance. His mission is to empower individuals with the clarity and confidence needed to make informed decisions about their supplement routines.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• How the supplement industry has evolved from single ingredients to niche, hyper-specific products
• SuppCo's mission to help consumers navigate supplement choices
• SuppCo's "Trust Score", rating brands on 30+ manufacturing attributes
• Third-party lab testing results on popular supplements bought online
• Creatine gummies found to be severely underdosed or missing active ingredient
• Lack of consistent regulatory testing after a product's initial approval sample
• How Amazon's "golden sample" testing loophole allows inconsistent product quality
• Why gummies struggle with heat- and moisture-sensitive ingredients like probiotics
• Dosing limitations of gummies (e.g., needing many gummies for a full creatine or omega-3 dose
• Buying from official brand storefronts vs. third-party Amazon sellers
• How absorption varies by form factor (capsules, powders, liquids, soft gels)
• Why probiotics need enteric-coated capsules to survive stomach acid
• Why fat-soluble nutrients (vitamin D, omega-3) are best delivered in fat-based formats
• Why creatine powder is considered the most stable, effective format
• Risks of stacking too many supplements without understanding interactions
• Downsides of proprietary multivitamin blends with hidden ingredient amounts
• Recommended "non-negotiable" starter stack: creatine, vitamin D3/K2, and magnesium
• The importance of knowing your specific reason for taking any supplement
• Which supplements can be taken indefinitely vs. those that should be cycled (e.g., berberine)
• Common supplement myths debunked (creatine as a gym-only supplement, price equals quality, more supplements equals better health, electrolyte necessity)
• The role of the placebo effect in perceived supplement benefits
• Where supplement regulation is headed and the growing role of consumer awareness

EPISODE RESOURCES 

SuppCo

Scan your supplements in the app, get a trust score for every product, and finally know what you are actually taking.

https://supp.co/

Thorne

Third-party tested creatine, magnesium and D3/K2, the trusted non-negotiable for your daily supplement stack.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne

Function Health

Get lab tested and know exactly which nutrients you are actually deficient in before building a supplement stack.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/FunctionHealth

BiOptimizers

Magnesium Breakthrough covers the full spectrum most people are lacking. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/biooptimizer

Promix

Pure, lab tested creatine powder in the stable, effective format, easy to mix into water or coffee daily. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/PromixNutrition

Rho Nutrition

Clean, third party tested creatine to support energy, muscle and long term brain health. Get 15% off your first order with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/RhoNutrition

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://supp.co/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joinsuppco

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@joinsuppco

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEB9zpr6dWBOOjQ868Y6yJQ

KEYWORDS

supplement quality testing, best creatine powder, creatine vs gummies, magnesium glycinate benefits, vitamin D3 K2 supplement, third party tested supplements, SUPCO trust score, supplement myths, how to choose supplements, probiotic absorption, best supplement stack, clean label supplements

MEET THE GUEST

Jennifer is a Yoga, Pilates, Meditation & Breathwork teacher who specialises in fertility & women’s health. During a long & difficult fertility journey of her own, Jennifer eventually found the practice of Fertility Yoga. This practice was able to ease her anxiety while TTC, relieve chronic insomnia, re-balance a thyroid condition…and eventually it helped her to fall pregnant naturally. She now runs an online business, Element Pilates & Yoga, helping women all over the world to overcome fertility challenges & find their way to motherhood. She’s the host of the Your Journey to Fertility Podcast and the creator of the In Your Element Fertility Yoga Program.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• How Jennifer's fertility journey began with an early menopause misdiagnosis at 34
• First round of IVF and the odds of a single embryo surviving to birth
• Cycle returning naturally after breastfeeding, and a second early menopause diagnosis reversal
• New fertility diagnoses at 37, including thyroid issues and blocked fallopian tubes
• Male factor fertility issues and why men are often undertested
• Secondary infertility and the emotional toll of trying for a second child
• Losing embryos during a COVID lockdown clinic closure
• Discovering fertility yoga during lockdown and its early effects on sleep and thyroid health
• Natural pregnancy after IVF was said to be unlikely, and the loss that followed
• Retraining as a yoga teacher and specializing in fertility work
• Insulin resistance and metabolic conditions as fertility disruptors
• Cortisol and stress as drivers of menstrual cycle irregularities
• How fertility yoga differs from a regular yoga practice
• Matching yoga practices to each phase of the menstrual cycle
• Nervous system regulation and its role in fertility and conception
• Why the nervous system can't distinguish emotional stress from physical danger
• Mindset strategies for navigating the highs and lows of a fertility journey
• Setting boundaries around triggering events like baby showers
• Co-regulation and building a support network during a fertility journey
• First steps to take when starting a fertility journey, including early testing

EPISODE RESOURCES 

Organifi

Stress and sleep support supplements to help calm your nervous system and improve rest. Receive 20% off with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Organifi

Oura Ring

Get a clearer picture of your sleep, stress, and cycle health, with insights made just for you on your fertility journey.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/OuraRing

Thorne

Prenatal vitamins to help you prepare for and support a healthy pregnancy.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne

Somavedic

Support deeper, more restful sleep with a device designed to help calm your environment and your body. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/somavedic

Primal Trust

Learn to calm your nervous system with guided meditations and tools built to support you on your fertility journey.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/PrimalTrust

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.elementpilatesyoga.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jen.elementpilatesyoga

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086747915761

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/@elementpilatesyoga

KEYWORDS

fertility yoga, nervous system regulation, secondary infertility, IVF, male factor fertility, thyroid health, cortisol and stress, ovulation tracking, prenatal vitamins, sleep support, mindset coaching, embryo transfer, menstrual cycle health, co-regulation, fertility support community

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Sirisha Vadali is a board-certified cardiologist, advanced lipidologist, and leading voice in cardiometabolic health, prevention, and women’s heart health. As Program Director of HonorHealth’s Cardiometabolic Program, she specializes in helping patients reduce cardiovascular risk before life-threatening events occur through a blend of advanced medicine, metabolic health, lifestyle changes, and prevention-focused care. Known for making complex health topics approachable, Dr. Vadali is passionate about reshaping conversations around GLP-1s, women’s cardiovascular health, stress reduction, and longevity. Having treated over 100,000 patients, she believes prevention is the future of medicine and that sustainable lifestyle changes can transform long-term heart health.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Cardiologists often niche into advanced lipidology because most doctors don't have time to check those specific labs
• More patients are now seeking preventative cardiac care, not just treatment after symptoms appear
• Heart health screening age depends on risk profile: as early as 18 with family history, otherwise 30 to 50
• High cholesterol is the top modifiable risk factor for heart attack, according to the Interheart Study
• Thyroid issues, hormonal shifts, pregnancy, menopause, and low vitamin D can all raise cholesterol
• Cholesterol comes from both diet and genetics, roughly 50-50 for most people
• The brain and heart synthesize their own cholesterol independent of blood levels
• "Normal" cholesterol targets vary by individual risk profile rather than a fixed number
• Women are underrepresented in cardiovascular studies despite heart disease being their top killer
• Hormonal changes can mask heart symptoms and contribute to cardiac events in women
• Heart attacks can occur at any age; genetic factors like Lp(a) matter more than age alone
• Arterial plaque, once formed, cannot be removed, only stabilized through lifestyle and treatment
• Plaque rupture, not just blockage, is a major and unpredictable cause of heart attacks
• Recent advances include transcatheter valve replacement, robotic bypass surgery, and leadless pacemakers
• Visceral fat is dangerous even in thin people and silently damages arteries
• GLP-1 medications are reshaping cardiometabolic care by reducing visceral fat and inflammation
• AFib is common and under-diagnosed, with stroke risk as its main danger
• Wearables like Apple Watch are helping detect AFib earlier, with ablation as a treatment option
• Coronary artery calcium scoring is described as the most powerful test for visualizing heart plaque
• Consistent exercise, blood pressure screening, and managing stress are key habits seen in heart-healthy older patients

EPISODE RESOURCES 

Nikki

Catch AFib before it catches you. Track your heart rhythm 24/7 with this wearable. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Nikki

Heart and Soil Supplements

Support your heart with nutrient-dense whole food supplements built for cardiovascular health. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/HeartandSoil

Vital Choice Seafood

Wild-caught seafood packed with omega-3s to support heart health and fight inflammation. Save 5% on your first order with code 1VCAF5.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/VitalChoiceSeafood

Brightland

Cold-pressed, heart-healthy olive oil to support inflammation and cardiovascular wellness, straight from the source.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Brightland

Oura Ring

Track your sleep, stress, and recovery to keep your heart health and hormones in balance.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/OuraRing

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

https://www.sirishavadali.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/vadalimd

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/sirisha.vadali

KEYWORDS

heart health, cardiovascular disease, cholesterol, visceral fat, AFib, GLP-1, coronary calcium score, women's heart health, cardiometabolic health, blood pressure, plaque buildup

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Sutton is passionate about identifying the root causes of chronic health problems and developed a deep interest in iron disorders after her husband suffered severe complications from previously undiagnosed hereditary hemochromatosis, including liver disease and a pituitary tumor. Living with Crohn's disease and iron deficiency anemia herself, she has experienced both sides of iron dysregulation firsthand. In her book and workshop, The Iron Curse, Dr. Sutton explores the full spectrum of iron imbalance, from overload to deficiency anemia, covering underlying causes, contributing factors, and evidence-based natural strategies that may help support healthier iron regulation and overall wellness.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• How undiagnosed hemochromatosis can cause liver damage and pituitary tumors
• Wide range of iron overload symptoms, from fatigue to joint pain
• Organs most affected by excess iron: liver, heart, pancreas, gonads, thyroid, brain
• Hemochromatosis prevalence and high rate of underdiagnosis
• Carrier myth debunked, one gene still carries real risk
• Ferritin and iron saturation as key diagnostic markers
• Target ferritin ranges for people with a hemochromatosis gene
• Blood removal and donation as first-line treatment
• Diet shifts that lower iron, including calcium-rich foods
• Supplements that help chelate iron: curcumin, alpha lipoic acid, EGCG, silymarin
• Quercetin and berberine for lowering iron absorption
• Realistic timelines for bringing iron levels down
• Three hemochromatosis genes explained, heavyweight, middleweight, lightweight
• How iron levels shift with age and gender across a lifetime
• Recommended testing frequency for people with a hemochromatosis gene
• Celiac disease connection to hemochromatosis genetics
• Evolutionary reasons hemochromatosis and celiac genes persist in the population

EPISODE RESOURCES 

Thrive Market

Gluten-free pantry staples delivered to your door, making it easier to stock a celiac-friendly kitchen.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ThriveMarket

Quicksilver

Milk thistle helps your body bind and clear excess iron while supporting liver health. Save 15% with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/QuicksilverScientific

Caraway

Non-toxic cookware and cutting boards help prevent cross-contamination in a celiac-safe kitchen. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH10.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/CarawayCookware

BiOptimizers

Berberine supplements help lower iron absorption to support healthy iron levels. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/biooptimizer

Primal Kitchen

Gluten-free snacks and liver support supplements, all in one place. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/PrimalKitchen

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://drchristysutton.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/drchristysutton

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/drchristysutton

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@drchristysutton

KEYWORDS

hereditary hemochromatosis, iron overload, iron deficiency anemia, ferritin levels, iron saturation test, celiac disease, gluten-free diet, liver support, milk thistle, berberine, curcumin, alpha lipoic acid, genetic testing, carrier myth, blood donation, chelation supplements, autoimmune disease, iron chelation

MEET THE GUEST

Dr. Cory Tichauer is a board-certified Naturopathic Doctor with 22 years of experience in complex chronic illness and tick-borne infections at Bear Creek Naturopathic Clinic in southern Oregon. A longtime ILADS member and former board director, he also belongs to ISEAI, the ISMCAS, and the Ehlers-Danlos Society. Dr. Cory uses functional medicine, naturopathic therapies, individualized pharmaceuticals, and advanced diagnostics to remove obstacles to health and support the body's self-repair mechanisms.

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT

• Dr. Tichauer's background as a naturopathic physician and why he chose that path over conventional medicine
• How chronic infection, particularly tick-borne illness, emerged as a central focus of his clinical practice
• His involvement with ILADS and the role of the organization in advancing provider education
• Why current two-tiered Lyme testing (ELISA + immunoblot) misses a large percentage of chronic cases
• The use of the B31 lab strain in standard testing and how it contributes to false negatives
• How immune suppression, biofilm formation, and the intracellular nature of Borrelia reduce antibody production
• How lab threshold cutoffs are calibrated for acute care, not chronic illness
• The difference between qualitative and quantitative ELISA results, and why specific band markers matter
• Javora Health: what it is, how it was created, and its mission to increase access to quality Lyme testing
• The TASO home blood collection kit: how it works, why it's well-tolerated, and how samples are processed
• Armin Labs: what makes it one of the most validated Lyme testing labs, including CAP certification and German standards
• The TickPlex panel and the scope of co-infections, chronic viral infections, and parasites it can screen for
• Round body (persister form) Lyme testing and why up to two-thirds of chronic Lyme patients test negative on standard ELISA
• The LymEspot (ELISpot/lymphocyte transformation test): how T-cell testing can detect active infection within 10 to 14 days of exposure
• Serial testing as a tool to track treatment progress, including why an initial antibody increase after treatment can be a positive sign
• The three-pillar natural support protocol: immune upregulation, biofilm disruption, and antimicrobial herbs
• Javora's symptom-tracking app, online quiz for test selection, and Dr. Tichauer's weekly open office hours
• The future of Lyme testing: the need for consensus between functional and conventional medicine, and what improved direct-organism testing could look like

EPISODE RESOURCES 

Jivora

Get accurate tick-borne illness testing to support earlier detection and personalized care.

https://jivora.co/pages/ambassador-program

Desbio

Supplements that support chronic illness recovery. Use our link for 5% off.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/DesBio

Tick Mitt

Stop Lyme before it happens with a chemical-free tick-removing mitt. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/tickmitt

Tick Tock

Stay safe from tick-borne illness with natural tick and mosquito repellents. 

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ticktocknaturals

NIKKI

Support your holistic Lyme routine with a wearable wellness device. Receive 10% off using code TRAILTOHEALTH.

https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Nikki

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Website:

http://jivorahealth.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jivorahealth

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/jivorahealth

KEYWORDS

Lyme disease testing, home Lyme test, tick-borne illness, chronic Lyme, Borrelia testing, Armin Labs, co-infection testing, Lyme literate doctor, naturopathic Lyme treatment, ILADS, Javora Health