In this episode of The Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Dr. Dylan Petkus, a sleep apnea researcher, author, and functional health expert, to explore the often-overlooked connection between sleep apnea and thyroid disorders — particularly Hashimoto’s. Although the condition frequently goes undiagnosed, especially in women, sleep apnea is surprisingly common among those with Hashimoto’s. Dr. Petkus shares his personal journey and research-backed insights into natural, non-invasive approaches for overcoming sleep apnea without relying solely on CPAP machines.

Listeners will discover:

More than 50% of people with Hashimoto’s may also have sleep apnea. The more severe the sleep apnea, the more likely you are to have elevated thyroid antibodies.

Women are often misdiagnosed or missed altogether. Sleep problems are frequently chalked up to menopause or stress, not airway dysfunction.

A scalloped tongue could be a red flag. If your tongue presses against your teeth at night, it may indicate airway obstruction and poor nighttime breathing.

Slow, intentional breathing can retrain your system. Just 10 minutes a day of breathwork can start to shift your patterns, improve oxygen flow at night, and improve sleep quality.

Deficiencies in nutrients like thiamine and copper can make things worse. Supporting your mitochondria may be key to restoring energy and reducing inflammation. 

Tune in to learn more about how sleep apnea may be holding back your healing — and what you can do about it.

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Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

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In this episode of The Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews sleep expert and functional medicine practitioner Dr. Damiana Corca to explore the often-overlooked connection between sleep disorders and thyroid health. Dr. Corca shares insights from her clinical experience and her new book, The Deep Blue Sleep Book, which offers a practical roadmap to achieving truly restorative sleep.

Listeners will discover the five primary types of insomnia and how they intersect with Hashimoto’s, adrenal dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, and even gut infections. Whether you’re struggling to fall asleep, waking too early, or feeling “wired but tired,” this conversation offers compassionate, root-cause solutions to help you get the rest you need and deserve. 

What you’ll learn in this episode:

There are five distinct types of insomnia, and each requires a different healing strategy. Understanding your type is key to finding relief.

Hashimoto’s often overlaps with adrenal dysfunction, which can make it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep — even if you’re utterly exhausted.

Gut infections like H. pylori and Blastocystis hominis can be hidden culprits behind both thyroid flares and sleep disruptions, even without obvious digestive symptoms.

Hormonal imbalances in perimenopause are a major trigger for sleep issues, especially when paired with blood sugar imbalances and chronic stress.

Histamine intolerance is an under-recognized cause of insomnia, especially in people who struggle with nighttime itching, swelling, or racing thoughts.

Sleep quality — not just quantity — is crucial, and Dr. Corca shares what healthy sleep actually looks and feels like, including tips for waking up refreshed.

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ 

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

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In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Dr. Kasey Holland, a naturopathic doctor specializing in chronic illness, viral reactivation, and complex fatigue cases. Drawing from her own journey with reactivated Epstein-Barr virus (or EBV, also known as “mono”), Dr. Holland shares what many traditional approaches overlook — especially when it comes to testing, triggers, and why some people never quite bounce back after mono.

Together, Dr. Wentz and Dr. Holland break down the nuances of EBV reactivation and chronic fatigue syndrome, uncovering its links to autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s and exploring the lesser-known co-factors like mold exposure, parasites, and adrenal burnout that can block recovery.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

Why crushing fatigue after mono isn’t “all in your head” — and what to do about it. If you’re still wiped out months or even years after having the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), there’s a reason. Dr. Holland breaks down the science behind viral reactivation — and how it disrupts energy, mood, and immunity long after the initial infection.

The hidden EBV–Hashimoto’s connection doctors often miss. You’ll learn how a virus you got years ago could be fueling thyroid issues today — and what labs to ask for to find out if the virus is reactivated or contained by your immune system.

Why “fighting the virus” won’t fix your fatigue — unless you fix this too. From parasites to mold to nutrient gaps, this episode unpacks the overlooked root causes that weaken your immune system and allow EBV to flare again and again.

The overlooked role of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there's an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. When this happens, your cells and tissues become more vulnerable to damage — and so does your immune system. When your body’s defenses are down, EBV has an opportunity to thrive. From mold to glyphosate, high oxidative stress also makes it easier for viruses like EBV to “turn back on.”

What actually works for EBV symptoms — and what’s a waste of time. Discover what really moves the needle — including specific herbs, light therapies, IV vitamin C, adrenal support, and more.

Tune in to learn more about Epstein-Barr virus, the root causes of fatigue, and the comprehensive healing strategies that can help you finally feel like yourself again.

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode!

Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

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In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz explores one of the most overlooked pieces of thyroid hormone prescriptions: poor T4 to T3 conversion. Despite being on thyroid medication, many people continue to experience fatigue, brain fog, hair loss, and weight struggles because their bodies aren’t converting T4 into the active T3 hormone effectively. Dr. Wentz breaks down why T3 is critical for metabolism, energy, and overall well-being — and what steps can be taken to naturally support the body’s production of this vital hormone.

Listeners will learn how to assess their thyroid labs using Dr. Wentz’s "Rainbow Test," understand the most common root causes of poor conversion, and discover powerful lifestyle, dietary, and supplement-based interventions that can make a real difference. She also shares a brand-new product from her Rootcology line that supports natural T3 production for those unable to tolerate or access T3-containing medications.

What you’ll learn about in this episode:

Why free T3 is so important — and why normal labs don’t always tell the full story. Understanding how to interpret your thyroid labs can reveal conversion problems that are keeping you stuck in fatigue.

The "Rainbow Test" method to visualize your lab results and spot T4 to T3 conversion issues. This simple visual tool can help you decode your results and take empowered action.

Top blockers of T3 production that might be sabotaging your progress. From environmental toxins to excessive fasting, find out what could be slowing you down — and how to shift your T3 production.

How nutrient deficiencies like low ferritin, selenium, and zinc impact your ability to convert T4 to T3. Plus, which forms and dosages actually work without causing side effects.

The role of your liver, gut, and adrenal health in producing T3 naturally. Yes, your conversion isn’t just about your thyroid — it's a whole-body team effort.

What to do if you can’t tolerate or access T3 medications. A new product may offer support for those who want a natural way to enhance T3 levels.

Tune in to learn more about how to naturally support your T3 levels, uncover hidden thyroid symptoms, and feel more energized, clear-headed, and vibrant.

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ 

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

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In this week’s episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz speaks with nutritional therapist Elliot Overton to explore the powerful but often-overlooked role of thiamine (vitamin B1) in thyroid health. They unpack how thiamine impacts energy levels, brain function, gut motility, and even complex conditions like POTS and SIBO. This conversation is packed with actionable information on identifying hidden deficiencies and restoring nutrient balance — especially for those still struggling with symptoms despite making diet and lifestyle changes.

Listeners will also learn why standard testing often misses thiamine issues, what forms of supplementation are most effective, and how certain medications and stressors can deplete this crucial nutrient. Whether you're dealing with fatigue, dizziness, digestive issues, or thyroid dysfunction, this episode offers valuable insights into an often-missed root cause.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

Why thiamine deficiency is more common than you think and how even people eating a “healthy” diet can be functionally deficient due to multiple factors that impair absorption. This deficiency often goes unnoticed, and might be at the root of persistent fatigue or neurological symptoms.

The connection between thiamine and POTS, SIBO, and thyroid dysfunction. Low thiamine levels can impair the autonomic nervous system, gut motility, and energy metabolism — leading to a host of common symptoms that might surprise you!

How stress, antibiotics, and diet can deplete thiamine even if your intake looks sufficient. Thiamine is a delicate nutrient that gets used up rapidly during times of physical or emotional stress.

The forms and dosages of thiamine that work best for specific conditions. Not all thiamine supplements are created equal — some forms are better absorbed or better suited for neurological versus digestive symptoms.

Why standard blood tests often miss thiamine deficiency — and better ways to assess your needs. Routine lab tests may not reflect true tissue levels of thiamine, especially in chronic illness.

Tune in to learn more about how thiamine may be the missing link in your healing journey.

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode!

If you listened and loved this episode, please share and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!

Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

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In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz uncovers a commonly overlooked root cause of lingering symptoms in those with Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism: adrenal dysfunction. While many people begin thyroid medication expecting full relief, they often find themselves still plagued by fatigue, brain fog, and mood swings. Dr. Wentz explains how the adrenals — our body’s stress glands — play a vital role in energy, mood, and inflammation regulation, and why so many with thyroid issues also struggle with adrenal imbalances.

Listeners will learn how to spot adrenal dysfunction, explore simple at-home and advanced testing options, and discover practical, research-backed strategies for restoring adrenal health. Drawing from her personal experience and clinical insights, Dr. Wentz also shares a sneak peek into her signature protocol that has helped thousands regain their energy and clarity — without extreme measures or complex testing.

What you’ll learn in this episode: 

Optimizing thyroid hormones can unmask adrenal dysfunction: The hormones work together in a feedback loop, and some people will initially feel better, then worse after starting thyroid hormones. This is a red flag for adrenal dysfunction. 

Adrenal dysfunction is present in >90% of people with thyroid issues: If you're dealing with morning fatigue, cravings, anxiety, brain fog, or feeling wired but tired, your adrenals may be struggling, even if your labs look "normal."

There are easy ways to test your adrenal health. From checking your blood pressure lying down vs. standing, to observing mood swings and irritability, your body offers clues even before formal testing.

You don’t need expensive tests or extreme measures to feel better. Simple shifts like balancing blood sugar, sleeping more, reducing caffeine, and replenishing key nutrients can transform your energy in just a few weeks.

Adaptogens and nutrients can help you feel like yourself again. Dr. Wentz discusses the ABCs of adrenal recovery — Adaptogens, B vitamins (like B1, B5, and P5P), and vitamin C — and how they can help you rebuild your energy.

Dr. Wentz shares her “Adrenal Kickstart” drink. It tastes like an orange creamsicle and helps replenish electrolytes, stabilize blood sugar, and support cortisol balance, especially if you’re running on fumes in the morning.

Tune in to learn more about the critical connection between adrenal function and thyroid health — and how small shifts in your daily routine can unlock big improvements in your energy, mood, and well-being.

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode!

Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ 

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

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In this episode of The Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations Podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Dr. Alex Carrasco, a board-certified physician, bestselling author, and founder of Nourish Medicine. Together, they unpack the many root causes of fatigue that go far beyond thyroid function. Dr. Carrasco shares how nutrient deficiencies, environmental toxins like mold, and even genetic polymorphisms can contribute to chronic exhaustion, especially in women with thyroid conditions.

Listeners will walk away with a better understanding of why fatigue is a multifactorial issue and how to reclaim their energy with actionable strategies that include smarter supplementation, personalized testing, and simple lifestyle upgrades.

Tune in to learn more about how to uncover and address the real causes behind chronic fatigue.

Why fatigue is rarely caused by just one thing — and how to uncover all the hidden “logs” in your bonfire. Dr. Carrasco shares her metaphor of fatigue as a bonfire fueled by many logs — like nutrient deficiencies, hormone imbalances, chronic infections, and emotional stress — and how removing them one by one can lead to real healing.

The critical nutrient deficiencies that can mimic thyroid issues (it’s not just B12!).  Low levels of thiamine, ferritin, vitamin D, and CoQ10 can all contribute to fatigue, brain fog, and other symptoms that are often misattributed to thyroid dysfunction alone.

The sleep mistake almost everyone makes — and how a simple circadian reset can help. Unfiltered morning sunlight and limiting blue light at night can dramatically improve sleep quality and energy levels throughout the day.

The genetic blueprint that could explain your symptoms (plus what foods can help!). Polymorphisms like MTHFR and COMT can impact how your body handles nutrients, stress, and neurotransmitters, and knowing your genetic tendencies can help you eat and supplement smarter.

The overlooked environmental factor that might be hiding in your home, office… or car. Mold exposure can suppress the immune system, drain your energy, and even impact mood and cognition.

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode!

Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

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In this episode of The Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations, Dr. Izabella Wentz explores one of the most debilitating symptoms of Hashimoto’s — fatigue. She shares her personal healing journey and outlines the 11 most effective strategies that helped her and thousands of others in her community reclaim their energy and vitality. From optimizing thyroid labs to uncovering nutrient deficiencies and supporting adrenal health, this episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone feeling constantly drained.

Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with thyroid fatigue for years, this episode offers hope and practical tools to help you feel like yourself again.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

Why “normal” TSH levels might still leave you feeling like a sloth – and where your levels really need to be.

How low T3 and high reverse T3 can sabotage your energy – and the medications that may help.

The key nutrient deficiencies that often get overlooked in fatigue – including the one that helped 88% of my readers feel better.

How food sensitivities and blood sugar swings can drain your energy – and what to eat instead.

The powerful connection between digestion and energy – and how a simple supplement changed everything for me.

Tune in to learn more about overcoming Hashimoto’s fatigue with targeted, practical solutions that support the thyroid, adrenals, digestion, and more.

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ 

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

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In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz  interviews Danielle "Dani" Hamilton, a Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and a renowned blood sugar expert. Dani specializes in utilizing a personalized circadian and quantum approach to optimize metabolic health, a journey sparked by her own struggles with PCOS, hypoglycemia, acne, and weight loss resistance. 

The episode dives into the often-overlooked link between hypoglycemia and hypothyroidism, the many symptoms of low blood sugar, and how to balance blood sugar when you have hypoglycemia.  

What you’ll learn in this episode:

Why low blood sugar might be sabotaging your thyroid health: Hypoglycemia often flies under the radar in hypothyroidism and may be responsible for increased thyroid antibodies, fatigue, an inability to lose weight, anxiety, insomnia, cravings and mood swings. 

Metabolic hypoglycemia is under-recognized: Many people experience symptoms like shakiness, anxiety, brain fog, or waking at 2 AM, even with blood sugar levels in the 70s or 80s—levels that are often dismissed by doctors as “normal.”

Hypoglycemia can drive hormonal chaos: Dani reversed her PCOS not by directly treating hormones but by stabilizing her blood sugar. Dysregulated blood sugar disrupts thyroid function, sex hormones, cortisol, and even fertility.

Your “personality traits” may be symptoms: Cravings, being “hangry,” needing snacks constantly, or being unable to skip meals are not just quirks—they’re often signs of blood sugar instability and metabolic dysfunction.

Sunlight, not just food, fuels metabolism: Infrared and UVA light from the sun play a crucial role in mitochondrial health, blood sugar regulation, fat burning, and thyroid hormone activation. Dani emphasized our modern “sunlight deficiency” as a key factor in fatigue and metabolic issues.

Leptin tells your body whether it’s safe to burn fat: Low leptin, common in over-stressed, underfed, overexercised women, suppresses thyroid function and keeps the body in famine mode. The solution isn’t more fasting—it’s strategic nourishment and nervous system regulation.

Tune in to learn more about how to manage blood sugar effectively!

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ 

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

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In this episode of Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews integrative pediatrician Dr. Roy Steinbock to explore the often-overlooked links between thyroid dysfunction, mental health, and chronic conditions in children and postpartum mothers. As a physician who blends conventional medicine with functional and holistic tools, Dr. Steinbock shares practical insights on how to identify and address root causes of common issues like fatigue, anxiety, ADHD, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

What you’ll learn in this episode:

Thyroid disorders in kids often present differently than in adults. Dr. Roy shares how symptoms like anxiety, constipation, insomnia, and even changes in handwriting can indicate an underlying thyroid issue.

Postpartum thyroid dysfunction is more common than you think. Many mothers with postpartum anxiety or depression may actually have undiagnosed thyroid issues, and testing TSH alone often isn’t enough.

Iron and ferritin levels are crucial for thyroid and mental health. Dr. Roy explains how low ferritin can trigger fatigue, anxiety, immune dysfunction and even behavioral issues in children — even when hemoglobin levels (iron tests) appear normal. Furthermore they can prevent proper use of thyroid hormones.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) may be tied to thyroid and nutrient imbalances. Supplements like myo-inositol, NAC, and even nutritional lithium can make a big impact — especially when combined with thyroid support.

PANDAS is a real and underdiagnosed condition. We break down the signs, the overlap with thyroid dysfunction, and how antibiotics and IVIG therapy are helping some children recover.

Tune in to learn more about pediatric thyroid health, mental health, and how integrative care can offer lasting healing for families.

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ 

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

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