Could one overlooked mineral be the missing link in cardiovascular care?

Magnesium might just be the most critical yet underutilised nutrient for heart health, according to naturopath and former heart failure nurse Gina Robertson. In this compelling episode, Gina draws on her years in cardiac wards and naturopathic practice to uncover magnesium’s profound impact on cardiovascular disease, particularly in conditions like hypertension, arrhythmias, and post-operative recovery.

From reversing life-threatening arrhythmias in seconds to halving rates of post-surgical atrial fibrillation, Gina shares powerful clinical examples and explains why standard blood tests miss magnesium deficiency in most patients. You'll learn how this essential mineral transforms stiff, non-compliant vessels into more elastic channels, reducing cardiac strain, and why stress may be one of the biggest drivers of magnesium depletion today.

We dive into the nuances of magnesium supplementation, including the best forms for specific conditions (think glycinate, orotate, citrate, glycerophosphate), practical dosing strategies, and when to consider topical applications. Gina also highlights complementary nutrients, key dietary considerations, and cautions around renal impairment.

Whether you're supporting patients or your own cardiovascular health, this episode offers evidence-based insights that challenge conventional care—and could shift the way you approach heart health forever.

Connect with Gina

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DISCLAIMER: The Information provided in the Wellness by Designs podcast is for educational purposes only; the information presented is not intended to be used as medical advice; please seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional if what you have heard here today raises questions or concerns relating to your health

Why isn’t your acne responding, no matter how “clean” your skincare routine is?

In this eye-opening episode, skin specialist nutritionist Jacinta Barbagallo shares why stubborn breakouts rarely start on the skin’s surface—and why real solutions lie far deeper. Together, we explore the three root causes of acne: retention keratosis, hypersebum secretion, and skin pH imbalance, and the surprising internal drivers behind them, from nutrient deficiencies and cortisol surges to gut dysfunction and metabolic imbalances.

Jacinta unpacks how to go beyond surface-level treatment with targeted clinical tools like strategic blood testing (e.g. SHBG, fasting glucose, insulin, hormone panels) and foundational nutritional strategies, including 30g of protein per meal, omega fatty acid balance, and key herbal medicines like burdock, Oregon grape, and peony licorice.

Most importantly, she reframes what progress really looks like. With hormones taking months to recalibrate and skin cells needing 6–8 weeks to renew, Jacinta shares what signs to look for along the way, like faster breakout recovery and reduced inflammation.

Whether you're navigating your own skin challenges or supporting clients through theirs, this episode offers a comprehensive and empowering roadmap to finally understanding what your skin is trying to tell you.

Connect with Jacinta

Discover the Clear Skin Blueprint 

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DISCLAIMER: The Information provided in the Wellness by Designs podcast is for educational purposes only; the information presented is not intended to be used as medical advice; please seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional if what you have heard here today raises questions or concerns relating to your health

Is Cellular Energy the Key to Fertility Over 35?

In this insightful episode of Wellness by Designs, naturopath and nutritionist Belinda Kirkpatrick explores how supporting our cells' energy systems may hold the key to optimising fertility, particularly for women over 35. At the heart of the discussion is nicotinamide riboside (NR), a cutting-edge nutrient that acts as a precursor to NAD+, the essential molecule powering mitochondrial function, DNA repair and healthy gene expression. As NAD+ levels naturally decline with age—starting as early as our 30s—so too can egg and sperm quality. Belinda explains how NR effectively raises cellular NAD+ levels by easily crossing cell membranes, unlike other forms that must convert before entering cells.

Belinda shares practical guidance on how she uses NR in fertility treatment plans, highlighting typical doses ranging from 250 to 1000 mg daily depending on age and egg quality markers. Importantly, she explains that NR can be taken right up until egg collection during IVF without interfering with medications, making it a valuable option for those navigating assisted reproductive cycles. She also reveals her "top three" supplements for fertility support—NR, ubiquinol and NAC—describing how they work synergistically to enhance egg quality and overall reproductive health.

Beyond supplements, the episode dives into lifestyle strategies to support NAD+ levels naturally, from eating protein-rich foods that provide tryptophan precursors to understanding how sun exposure can deplete NAD+, while practices like infrared sauna therapy may help boost it. With her trademark blend of scientific detail and compassionate, practical advice, Belinda offers an evidence-informed roadmap for anyone seeking to optimise their reproductive potential—whether they're undergoing treatment or simply planning ahead. For those ready to explore how cellular health underpins fertility, this conversation provides an essential guide to the latest research and integrative strategies.

Connect with Belinda: Naturopath in Sydney - Belinda Kirkpatrick Naturopathy & Nutrition

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DISCLAIMER: The Information provided in the Wellness by Designs podcast is for educational purposes only; the information presented is not intended to be used as medical advice; please seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional if what you have heard here today raises questions or concerns relating to your health

Is Ubiquinol the Missing Nutrient for Lifelong Heart Health?

In this eye-opening episode of Wellness by Designs, Dr Ross Walker, a renowned cardiologist with 25 years dedicated to preventative medicine, challenges the conventional approach to heart disease, statins and cholesterol management. Central to the discussion is ubiquinol, the active form of CoQ10, essential for mitochondrial energy production and a powerful antioxidant. Dr Walker explains how our natural production of ubiquinol begins declining around age 30 and drops sharply by 50, contributing to fatigue and reduced cardiovascular resilience.

Dr Walker explores why many patients with “normal” cholesterol still develop significant coronary artery disease, arguing that coronary calcium scoring offers a far superior risk assessment tool than standard cholesterol tests. Dr Walker also addresses statin-associated muscle symptoms, recommending 150 mg of ubiquinol daily for statin users, citing research showing a 50% reduction in muscle problems, and up to 300 mg for those with heart failure to support cardiac function and endothelial health.

From mitochondrial health to protection against oxidative stress, this episode highlights why ubiquinol may be a cornerstone in maintaining cardiovascular wellness and why a more personalised, evidence-based approach is needed to truly prevent heart disease.

Connect with Dr Walker: Home - Dr Ross Walker

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DISCLAIMER: The Information provided in the Wellness by Designs podcast is for educational purposes only; the information presented is not intended to be used as medical advice; please seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional if what you have heard here today raises questions or concerns relating to your health

Is it time to rethink how we treat atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis is more than skin deep—and naturopath and award-winning clinician Rebecca Hughes is here to prove it. In this practical and insightful episode, Rebecca shares her integrative, root-cause approach to eczema that goes far beyond suppressing symptoms with topical steroids.

Drawing from extensive clinical experience, Rebecca highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis, noting that conditions such as psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and lupus are often misidentified as eczema—leading to ineffective treatment. She walks practitioners through key investigations, from food intolerance and intestinal permeability testing to genetic susceptibilities, that help identify true inflammatory drivers.

Rebecca also outlines her foundational nutrient protocol, including zinc, vitamin D, vitamin A, quercetin, and glutamine, and discusses how these work synergistically to modulate immune response, stabilise mast cells, and repair gut integrity. She also addresses overlooked environmental triggers like mould and water-damaged buildings, as well as the clinical importance of emotional support, sleep hygiene, and managing the psychological toll of visible skin conditions.

Clinicians will find practical strategies for supporting patients through topical steroid withdrawal, tips on using bleach baths safely for Staphylococcus aureus overgrowth, and why children with eczema require particularly vigilant care.

With a soon-to-be-released practitioner course on atopic dermatitis, Rebecca equips healthcare professionals with the tools they need to treat this complex condition confidently and holistically.

Connect with Rebecca: Home - Rebecca Hughes Naturopath

 Explore Rebecca's Managing Atopic Dermatitis Course: Use code SAVE30 for a 30% discount. More information on the course can be found here: Managing Atopic Dermatitis | Natural Skin Medicine Courses

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DISCLAIMER: The Information provided in the Wellness by Designs podcast is for educational purposes only; the information presented is not intended to be used as medical advice; please seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional if what you have heard here today raises questions or concerns relating to your health

Why These Drugs Aren’t Magic Bullets—And How to Maximise Their Clinical Impact

The sharp rise in GLP-1 agonist prescriptions – up over 42% in Australia since 2019 – is reshaping how we approach weight loss and metabolic health. But are we ready to support patients beyond the script?

In this evidence-informed episode, dietitian and exercise scientist Robbie Clark joins us to unpack the clinical realities of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic® and Wegovy®. Far from being quick fixes, these medications work best when combined with targeted nutrition, resistance training, and gut support.

Robbie explores how GLP-1 agonists enhance insulin secretion, suppress appetite, and deliver cardiovascular benefits, while sharing practical strategies to enhance patient outcomes and minimise side effects. From optimising protein intake (1.2–1.6 g/kg) to prevent muscle loss, to managing nausea and reflux, you’ll gain the tools to confidently guide your patients through every stage of their GLP-1 journey.

We also dive into the surprising science of bitter foods – like dandelion, grapefruit, and dark chocolate – that naturally stimulate GLP-1 receptors, offering a food-first support strategy that complements medication.

Perhaps most crucial is the discussion on weight regain post-discontinuation, with studies showing 60–100% of lost weight can return within a year without lifestyle foundations. Robbie provides realistic, sustainable strategies to help patients move from medication reliance to long-term metabolic resilience.

Whether you’re currently supporting patients on GLP-1 medications or preparing for their growing use in practice, this episode delivers the clinical insights you need to turn short-term interventions into lasting lifestyle change

Connect with Robbie: healthbank.io

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DISCLAIMER: The Information provided in the Wellness by Designs podcast is for educational purposes only; the information presented is not intended to be used as medical advice; please seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional if what you have heard here today raises questions or concerns relating to your health

Why Women Are More Vulnerable—and What You Can Do Clinically

Could histamine intolerance be the hidden driver behind your patient’s anxiety, bloating, headaches, or skin flares? In this episode, nutritionist and epigenetics expert Zelda Graham breaks down the complex interplay between histamine, methylation dysfunction, gut health, and hormonal imbalances—especially in women.

You’ll gain critical insights into the role of DAO and HNMT enzymes, estrogen’s impact on histamine load, and why symptoms often worsen during ovulation and perimenopause.

Zelda also shares clinical strategies to identify and address root causes like mould exposure, gut dysbiosis, and methylation SNPS—plus targeted therapies using nutrients like quercetin, NAC, liposomal glutathione, and calcium D-glucarate.

This episode is essential listening for practitioners managing complex, multisystem female presentations—from hormone imbalances to unresolved histamine-related inflammation.

Connect with Zelda: 

Website: www.byronhealthandnutrition.com

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DISCLAIMER: The Information provided in the Wellness by Designs podcast is for educational purposes only; the information presented is not intended to be used as medical advice; please seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional if what you have heard here today raises questions or concerns relating to your health

Gut Health, Food as Medicine, and the Power of Simplicity with Lee Holmes

 Clinical nutritionist Lee Holmes shares her personal journey from Crohn’s disease and fibromyalgia to vibrant health—and how gut healing became the foundation of her clinical philosophy.

 In this heartfelt and practical episode, Lee explores the therapeutic power of whole foods, the impact of stress on the microbiome, and why gentle, digestible nutrition is often the most powerful intervention.

Practitioners will gain insights into restoring microbial balance, supporting gut lining integrity, and helping patients adopt sustainable habits without triggering restriction or anxiety.

From prebiotic-rich foods to the importance of mindful eating and family meals, this conversation offers a refreshing, real-world approach to digestive healing—grounded in both evidence and compassion.

Connect with Lee: Supercharged Food – Supercharged Food, gluten, sugar and dairy free anti-inflammatory recipes to heal

Discover Lee's latest books: Bookshelf – Supercharged Food

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DISCLAIMER: The Information provided in the Wellness by Designs podcast is for educational purposes only; the information presented is not intended to be used as medical advice; please seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional if what you have heard here today raises questions or concerns relating to your health

Metabolic Endotoxemia: The Gut–Gut-Inflammation Link You Can’t Ignore!

 Could chronic, low-grade inflammation be rooted in your patient’s gut? In this compelling episode, naturopath Steven Judge unpacks the emerging science of metabolic endotoxemia—where bacterial endotoxins (LPS) escape a compromised gut barrier and trigger systemic immune responses linked to cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, endometriosis, and more.

You'll gain a deeper understanding of intestinal hyperpermeability, toll-like receptor activation, and how to identify root causes like stress, toxin exposure, and circadian disruption. 

Steven also shares evidence-based tools—including omega-3s, polyphenols, PEA, and bovine immunoglobulins—to help reduce the inflammatory load and support long-term gut healing.

 This episode is a must-listen for practitioners wanting to connect ancient gut wisdom with today’s cutting-edge clinical practice.

Connect with Steven: Steven Judge Clinical Naturopathy

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DISCLAIMER: The Information provided in the Wellness by Designs podcast is for educational purposes only; the information presented is not intended to be used as medical advice; please seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional if what you have heard here today raises questions or concerns relating to your health

Naturopath  Anthia Koullouros explores the nervous system's critical role in healing and why repositioning from chronic stress into a regulated state creates the foundation for addressing persistent health issues.

Highlights from this episode:
• Understanding the four stress responses: fight, flight, freeze, and fawn
• How chronic stress directly prevents healing by prioritising survival mechanisms over repair
• Recognising when your nervous system is stuck in protective mode without your awareness
• The physiological impacts of stress responses on heart rate, breathing, digestion, and sleep
• Simple but effective first-aid techniques to create nervous system regulation
• Using nutritional support, adaptogens, and nervine herbs to create capacity for deeper healing
• The importance of meeting negative thoughts with curiosity rather than suppression
• Developing nervous system flexibility as the true marker of wellbeing

"When you love enough of something that you're taking care of, it'll love you back. When you pay it attention, it'll pay you attention back."

Connect with Anthia: Apotheca by Anthia

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DISCLAIMER: The Information provided in the Wellness by Designs podcast is for educational purposes only; the information presented is not intended to be used as medical advice; please seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional if what you have heard here today raises questions or concerns relating to your health