Chronic pain, fatigue, and the emotional toll of invisible illnesses can feel like a life sentence—but there is hope.

In this heartfelt testimonial episode, Dr. Holly Carling is joined by a patient who shares her personal journey of healing after years of struggling with fibromyalgia, IBS, sleep issues, and depression. After feeling dismissed by conventional medicine, she turned to natural care and finally found the support her body and mind needed to begin healing.

If you or someone you love has been dealing with chronic conditions that feel overwhelming or unsolvable, this story is a powerful reminder that healing is possible—and that your body is always trying to return to balance.

In this episode:

• Living with fibromyalgia and IBS for over 20 years

• How chronic sleep issues and anxiety added to the health spiral

• The frustration of being told “everything is normal” when it clearly isn’t

• What changed when she started addressing the root causes of her symptoms

• The power of being truly seen, heard, and supported

• How natural care helped her regain energy, sleep, and hope

For full show notes, resources and links head to: https://vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/

The Vital Health for You Podcast is for everyone. Get to know us more by connecting with us at our website or on our Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The statements made in this episode about specific products have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. All information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. 

When life gets busy, healthy eating is often the first thing to go. But skipping meals or relying on convenience foods can lead to fatigue, mood swings, and long-term health challenges. So how do you fuel your body when you’re short on time?

In this episode, Dr. Holly Carling and Alicia share real-world tips for making nutritious lunches and snacks an intentional (and doable!) part of your day—whether you’re working from home, commuting to the office, or always on the go.

They explore how what you eat impacts your blood sugar, hormones, digestion, and even your immune system—and why protein bars or skipping meals just won’t cut it. You’ll walk away with simple strategies to support your energy, mood, and long-term wellness through intentional nourishment.

In this episode:

• Why lunch is the most important reset meal of the day

• The difference between nourishing snacks and filler foods

• How healthy snacks help regulate blood sugar and prevent overeating

• Easy on-the-go lunch packing tips

• The role of hydration in hunger, energy, and digestion

• Mindful preparation as a form of self-care

For full show notes, resources and links head to: https://vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/

The Vital Health for You Podcast is for everyone. Get to know us more by connecting with us at our website or on our Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The statements made in this episode about specific products have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. All information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. 

A stroke doesn’t just happen—it’s often the result of underlying imbalances that have gone unaddressed for too long. But here’s the hopeful truth: both stroke prevention and recovery are possible with the right support.

In this episode, Dr. Holly Carling and Alicia explore how to protect and heal the brain by looking at the root causes that contribute to strokes in the first place—like high blood pressure, inflammation, and toxicity. They also discuss how natural approaches, including acupuncture, can be used to treat stroke symptoms and support long-term recovery.

Whether you’re looking to reduce your risk or help a loved one heal, this episode offers valuable insight into what’s possible when we support the body’s innate ability to restore itself.

In this episode:

• Common causes of stroke—and how to address them naturally

• How acupuncture can help treat stroke symptoms and support healing

• The connection between toxicity, circulation, and brain health

• Why medication isn’t always enough for prevention or recovery

• Tips for reducing stroke risk through nutrition, hydration, and detoxification

• What to look for in post-stroke care (and how to advocate for more holistic options)

• Hopeful stories of healing and progress through natural approaches

For full show notes, resources and links head to: https://vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/

The Vital Health for You Podcast is for everyone. Get to know us more by connecting with us at our website or on our Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The statements made in this episode about specific products have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. All information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. 

What happens when your body can no longer cool itself—and how can you recognize the warning signs before it’s too late?

In this episode of Vital Health For You, Dr. Holly Carling breaks down the differences between heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, and shares what you must do when symptoms show up. With personal stories and practical insights, this episode could be life-saving for you or someone you love.

You’ll learn how to identify the early signs of heat-related illness, when to call 911, and what to do in the critical moments before help arrives. Plus, Dr. Carling shares her own experiences with heat exhaustion and the natural remedies she now uses to stay cool and hydrated all summer long.

In this episode:

• The key differences between heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke

• Early signs to watch for: irritability, skin changes, nausea, and more

• When and why you should always call 911

• What to do (and what NOT to do) if someone is overheating

• Dr. Carling’s go-to hydration recipe: “Go Juice”

• How long-term damage can linger for years after a heat stroke

• The powerful role acupuncture can play in heat illness recovery

• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing

• Use shade, canopies, or umbrellas to avoid direct sun

• Never skip hydration—especially if you’ve had heat illness before

• Make your own electrolyte drink (like Go Juice) before heading outside

• Don’t wait—take early signs seriously

Reminder: Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Always call 911 if someone shows signs of confusion, red/dry skin, nausea, or loss of consciousness.

For full show notes, resources and links head to: https://vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/

The Vital Health for You Podcast is for everyone. Get to know us more by connecting with us at our website or on our Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The statements made in this episode about specific products have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. All information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. 

How do you heal when everything hurts—and nothing has worked?

In this deeply moving episode, Dr. Holly Carling shares a full-length patient testimonial describing her journey from debilitating fatigue, migraines, anxiety, weight gain, and brain fog—to restored vitality, joy, and purpose.

Together with Alicia, Dr. Carling reflects on the lessons we can all take from this story: healing takes time, partnership, and personalization. It’s not about perfection—it’s about doing what you can with the energy and resources you have, and building from there.

This episode is for anyone who feels like they’ve tried everything and still haven’t gotten answers. There is hope.

What’s in this episode:

• A story of recovery from 8+ years of extreme fatigue and burnout

• Why holistic healing must be personalized and relational

• How small, manageable steps can lead to big change

• Why treating the whole person matters more than isolated symptoms

• The importance of giving patients agency, respect, and compassion

• What it means to heal in partnership—not perfection

• A message of hope for those who feel stuck, misdiagnosed, or discouraged

For full show notes, resources and links head to: https://vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/

The Vital Health for You Podcast is for everyone. Get to know us more by connecting with us at our website or on our Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The statements made in this episode about specific products have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. All information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other healthcare professional.

Tired of water but want to skip the soda?

In this refreshingly fun episode, Dr. Holly Carling shares creative, nourishing, and actually delicious alternatives to sugary drinks and commercial electrolyte beverages. From homemade kombucha and wild soda to “go juice,” summer eggnog, and fruit-infused waters—this is your go-to guide for staying hydrated without compromising your health.

Whether you’re trying to wean off energy drinks, ditch diet soda, or simply make summer hydration more exciting, you’ll walk away with practical (and tasty!) ideas.

What’s in this episode:

• The truth about most electrolyte drinks—and what to use instead

• Kombucha brewing tips (including herbal flavor blends!)

• Why “go juice” is the OG electrolyte drink

• How to make wild soda with herbs and edible flowers

• Raw milk, bone broth, and other nourishing alternatives

• Apple cider vinegar drinks that actually taste good

• Which “healthy” drinks to avoid—including diet soda, Gatorade, and energy drinks

• A list of creative summer beverage ideas for the whole family

For full show notes, resources and links head to: https://vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/

The Vital Health for You Podcast is for everyone. Get to know us more by connecting with us at our website or on our Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The statements made in this episode about specific products have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. All information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other healthcare professional.

Dizzy spells? It might not be “just vertigo.”

In today’s episode, Dr. Holly Carling dives deep into the misunderstood world of dizziness, breaking down the difference between lightheadedness and vertigo—and the surprising role your inner ear (and even calcium crystals!) plays in balance.

You’ll learn how to identify common types of vertigo, including Ménière's disease, why inner ear crystals get dislodged, and what you can do to reduce symptoms naturally.

What’s in this episode:

• The difference between dizziness, lightheadedness, and vertigo

• What causes calcium crystals to shift in your inner ear

• The truth about Ménière's disease

• How inflammation, nutrient imbalances, and dehydration impact balance

• Why vitamin D and fat metabolism matter more than you think

• Step-by-step instructions for the Epley Maneuver

• How sugar and seed oils affect your inner ear fluid

• What acupuncture can do for chronic vertigo

• Natural remedies and when to seek help

For full show notes, resources and links head to: https://vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/

The Vital Health for You Podcast is for everyone. Get to know us more by connecting with us at our website or on our Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The statements made in this episode about specific products have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. All information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. 

Is your organic food really organic? Today’s episode unpacks the hidden truths behind organic labels—and why trusting them blindly could be a mistake. Dr. Holly Carling explains the regulatory loopholes, misleading marketing terms, and corporate influence that compromise the integrity of what we think are “safe” food choices.

From produce and poultry to olive oil and personal care products, this episode empowers you to become a more informed consumer—so you can protect your health, your wallet, and your trust.

What’s in this episode:

• Why “organic” doesn’t always mean what you think

• The difference between “organic,” “made with organic,” and “natural”

• Labeling loopholes manufacturers use to cut corners

• How hydroponic, cage-free, and free-range claims can mislead

• The truth about imported organic foods and questionable certifiers

• How even olive oil and soil can carry deceptive labels

• What to look for in truly trustworthy food brands

• Where to shop (and grow!) for the most honest, nutrient-rich options

For full show notes, resources and links head to: https://vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/

The Vital Health for You Podcast is for everyone. Get to know us more by connecting with us at our website or on our Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The statements made in this episode about specific products have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. All information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. 

What if low testosterone wasn’t the root problem—but a symptom of something deeper?

In today’s episode, Dr. Holly Carling shares a powerful patient story that reveals how hormone replacement therapy can mask deeper health issues. After a decade on synthetic testosterone, one man found real healing not through more meds—but by addressing the root causes of his symptoms.

From fatigue and joint pain to sleep issues and mood swings, Dr. Carling explains how restoring nutrient levels, reducing inflammation, and supporting the body’s natural healing process made all the difference.

Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode: Why testosterone therapy isn’t a cure-all—and the risks you may not be told

How hormone replacement can cause mood swings, prostate issues, and infertility

What “bioidentical” really means (and why it’s often misleading)

The crucial difference between symptom management and root-cause healing

How nutrient deficiencies, poor digestion, and toxic exposure affect hormone levels

Why saturated fats (not seed oils) are essential to hormone production

The importance of weaning off hormones slowly—and safely

How one patient's recovery transformed his mood, energy, and even his work life And so much more! 

For full show notes, resources and links head to: https://vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/

The Vital Health for You Podcast is for everyone. Get to know us more by connecting with us at our website or on our Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The statements made in this episode about specific products have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. All information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other healthcare professional.

What if soy wasn’t the health food we were told it was?

In today’s episode, Dr. Carling breaks down the real story behind soy—where the myths came from, why processed soy products can be harmful, and how big agriculture shaped public perception for profit. 

She also explains the difference between traditional fermented soy and the highly processed soy we find in most foods today, plus what types of soy (if any) are actually safe to eat.

Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode: How soy went from a condiment to a processed "health food"

Why fermentation matters—and why most soy today is harmful

The dangers of soy protein isolates and soy in baby formula

How soy impacts bone health, thyroid function, and hormones

Why soy is linked to cancer risk and cognitive decline

The environmental and health concerns around GMO soy

What you need to know about soy oils, additives, and processing

The rare cases where soy might be okay (and how to choose it) And so much more!

For full show notes, resources and links head to: https://vitalhealthcda.com/podcasts/

The Vital Health for You Podcast is for everyone. Get to know us more by connecting with us at our website or on our Facebook page.

*Disclaimer: The statements made in this episode about specific products have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. All information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other healthcare professional.