Pathways to Well-Being

Optimizing Cancer Care & Prevention Oct 25, 2024

Rebecca Knackstedt, MD, PhD, discusses the benefit of lifestyle-based modalities in supporting breast cancer treatment.

The Impact of Toxins on the Gut Microbiome, With Dr. Joseph Pizzorno Oct 21, 2024

On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, Dr. Joseph Pizzorno discusses clinical indicators of toxic overload and how the integrity of the gut microbiome can influence an individual’s sensitivity to ubiquitous toxins. Transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/impact-of-toxins-on-the-gut-microbiome/

Improving Thyroid Function by Targeting the Gut Microbiome Sep 14, 2024

On today’s episode of Pathways to Well-Being, clinical researcher and thyroid expert Michael Ruscio, DC, discusses the functional medicine approaches to optimizing and balancing thyroid hormone levels. Transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/improving-thyroid-function-gut-microbiome/

Biological Aging and Extending Healthspan, With Dr. Kara Fitzgerald Aug 25, 2024

On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald discusses epigenetics, longevity, and how diet and lifestyle-based interventions can slow biological aging to optimize the healthspan. Full transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/biological-aging-health-span

Neuroinflammation, Brain Function, & Mental Health Aug 22, 2024

On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we welcome Jaquel Patterson, ND, to explore the systemic impacts of neuroinflammation on physiological and psychiatric conditions and outline functional medicine approaches to optimizing brain health. Full transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/neuroinflammation-brain-function-mental-health/

Whole-Person Care for Perimenopause Symptoms Jul 27, 2024

Carrie Levine, CNM, IFMCP discusses whole-person care for perimenopause and personalized approaches for assessing and treating fluctuating hormonal patterns. Full transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/podcast-july-2024-whole-person-care-perimenopause/

Drug-Induced Nutrient Depletion and How Functional Medicine Pharmacists Can Help Jul 12, 2024

In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we welcome functional medicine pharmacists Dr. Lara Zakaria and Dr. Melody Hartzler to discuss drug-induced nutrient depletions and the role of pharmacists on collaborative care teams. View full transcript here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/podcast-july-2024-nutrient-depletion-and-pharmacists/

Mental-Emotional-Spiritual Connections to Physiology Jun 24, 2024

In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, Kara Parker, MD, discusses social determinants of health and assessing mental-emotional-spiritual well-being. Read episode transcript here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/podcast-june-2024-mental-emotional-spiritual-connections/

Exploring the Gut-Skin Connection May 18, 2024

In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, Drs. Michael Chapman and Patti Devers from Genova Diagnostics discuss the connection between skin and gut health. Read episode transcript here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/podcast-may-2024-exploring-the-gut-skin-connection/

How the Changing Seasons Impact Nutrition, Health, & the Body’s Internal Clock Apr 27, 2024

In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we welcome 2024 AIC speaker Dr. Deanna Minich to discuss the intricate relationship between the changing seasons, circadian rhythms, the foods we eat, and our health

The Phytobiome, Planetary Health, and Human Disease Apr 13, 2024

In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we welcome 2024 AIC speaker Dr. Michael Ash to discuss what we know about the phytobiome and its potential implications for planetary and human health View episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/podcast-april-2024-phytobiome-planteray-health/

Micronutrient Deficiencies, Ultra-Processed Foods, & Personalized Food Plans Apr 08, 2024

In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we welcome Dr. Liz Lipski to discuss the importance of micronutrients and how emphasizing these components in personalized therapeutic food plans may benefit a patient’s health. Read episode transcript here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/podcast-april-2024-micronutrient-deficiencies-processed-foods/

ADHD Management: The Benefits of Lifestyle-Based Interventions & Functional Lab Testing Mar 05, 2024

In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, Dr. Kate Kresge from Rupa Health discusses nutrition, exercise, and functional lab testing in the context of ADHD management. Click to view episodes transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/podcast-march-2024-adhd-management/

Long COVID & the Functional Medicine Approach to Care Feb 24, 2024

In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, functional medicine expert Dr. Elroy Vojdani discusses long COVID and how personalized care that addresses root causes may help.

The Oral-Systemic Connection & Personalized Nutrition Interventions Feb 10, 2024

The oral and gut microbiomes have a complex relationship influenced by several factors, including the micronutrients, macronutrients, and phytochemicals that we consume. Research suggests that the intestinal microbiome can be influenced by diet, and that these dietary interventions, while they may not result in the same responsiveness in all patients, may improve the symptoms and outcomes of a broad spectrum of diseases such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, colorectal cancer, cardiovascular disease, and more. Today on Pathways to Well-Being we are talking with Megan Barnett, functional medicine nutritionist, about the oral-systemic connection and the role of personalized nutrition on these microbiota. We will be discussing how the oral microbiome influences inflammatory pathways via the gut creating dysbiosis, and how personalized nutrition may help bring the body back into balance.

Intermittent Fasting and Heart Health Jan 30, 2024

Intermittent fasting may be an appropriate therapeutic approach for some patients and has been associated with improved health across a range of areas.1-4 Research suggests that the potential benefits of fasting work through multiple pathways from reducing oxidative stress to triggering autophagy. What are potential benefits when intermittent fasting therapies are used in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease? And how can the latest research help inform clinical interventions? In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, intermittent fasting expert Dr. Jason Fung joins us to discuss the fasting-heart health connection and how personalized intermittent fasting treatments may help improve patient outcomes. Click to view episodes transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/intermittent-fasting-and-heart-health/.

Whole Health and Functional Medicine in 2023 and Beyond Dec 19, 2023

Whole Health and the Whole Health approach received a lot of attention in 2023. The move toward a cultural transformation in care delivery to include both prevention and treatment with conventional and complementary approaches that embed each patient in a “circle of health” was noted by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine as a potential model for higher-value care nationally. Prioritizing a person-centered, integrated approach to health care that focuses on health creation and well-being by incorporating patients’ goals into their health care changes the focus from “What’s the matter with you?” to “What matters to you?” If that sounds a lot like functional medicine, it should; these two models of care are aligned in many ways. Today, we welcome IFM CEO Amy R. Mack, along with IFM Directors of Medical Education Drs. Robert Luby and Dan Lukaczer, for a conversation through the lens of Whole Health, with a look back on the important themes that emerged in 2023 and a look ahead to what is to come for the Whole Health approach and functional medicine. View episodes full transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/whole-health-and-functional-medicine-2023-and-beyond/

Diabetes Subtypes and Individualized Approaches to Metabolic Health Nov 28, 2023

Metabolic dysfunction is common in many communities and contributes to many of the most debilitating chronic diseases across the globe. The spectrum of metabolic function includes several points for intervention both before and after the diagnosis of conditions such as type 2 diabetes. The functional medicine approach to assessing and treating metabolic dysfunction involves a personalized approach to each patient, including understanding the root causes of each patient’s issues and developing individualized treatment plans to address those specific causes. Researchers recently proposed a system for subtyping type 2 diabetes cases that may aid clinicians with pattern recognition and lead to therapeutic plans that are more tailored to each diabetes patient. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we welcome Dr. Yousef Elyaman to discuss the functional medicine approach to metabolic health and how subtyping of diabetes might help clinicians identify and treat patients with metabolic dysfunction. Click to view episodes transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/diabetes-subtypes-and-individualized-approaches-to-metabolic-health/.

Environmental Toxins & Cancer: Exposure, Risks, and the Path Forward Oct 24, 2023

Toxins and environmental chemicals pervade our everyday lives, and the human body has adapted over the years to withstand the increasing volume and complexities of these exposures. However, chronic exposure to known carcinogenic substances present in the environment, our indoor spaces, and even in the products we use, may contribute to significant health risks. When should clinicians begin to suspect toxicity as a contributing factor to disease and cancer? In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being Dr. Robert Rountree, discusses the connections between toxicant exposure and cancer risk, highlighting the critical role of the body’s detoxification pathways and offering key preventive strategies. Click to view full transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/environmental-toxicants-cancer-exposure-risks-and-the-path-forward/

Fasting and the Gut Microbiome: Exploring the Connection and Health Benefits Sep 19, 2023

A therapeutic fasting intervention may be an appropriate component for a personalized treatment strategy and may improve health across a range of areas, from mental and cognitive performance to cardiometabolic health to the effectiveness of cancer treatments. Research suggests that the potential benefits of fasting work through multiple pathways, such as reducing oxidative stress, enhancing mitochondrial health, and triggering autophagy. Now, more studies indicate that fasting also positively impacts the gut microbiome. What’s that connection? What are the gut health benefits? And how can the latest research help inform clinical treatments? In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, IFM educator and functional medicine expert Dr. Patrick Hanaway joins us to discuss the fasting-gut connection and to explore how a beneficial gut microbiome response to fasting may translate to improved patient outcomes. Click to view full transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/fasting-and-the-gut-microbiome-exploring-the-connection-and-health-benefits/

Exploring Mood Disorders and Brain Health Through the Lens of Functional Psychiatry Aug 22, 2023

Mood disorders such as depression and anxiety are multi-factorial in nature, resulting from physiological and biochemical imbalances, and psycho-social imbalances. The field of functional psychiatry aims to identify the somatic root causes that contribute to mental health disorders. Due to the complexity and sensitivity around how these conditions manifest in each patient, the optimal treatment plan goes beyond a singular treatment modality and focuses on truly bringing the body, mind, and spirit back into balance. In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, noted functional medicine psychiatrist Dr. Achina Stein joins us to explore how various body systems affect mental health and walks us throughs her approach to the diagnostic workup. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/exploring-mood-disorders-and-brain-health-through-the-lens-of-functional-psychiatry/

Akkermansia & Gut Health With Dr. Colleen Cutliffe Jul 25, 2023

In this podcast, Dr. Colleen Cutliffe, a PhD scientist and the co-founder and CEO of the microbiome company, Pendulum Therapeutics, discusses the role that different bacterium such as Akkermansia play in optimal gut health and function. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/akkermansia-gut-health-with-dr-colleen-cutcliffe/

Food and Mood: Nutritional Psychiatry, the Microbiome, and Mental Health Jul 11, 2023

Mental health disorders including depression and anxiety are a major cause of disability and reduction in quality of life worldwide. Many people who experience these conditions do not achieve lasting remission from pharmaceuticals or talk therapy alone. In the past ten years, the practice of nutritional psychiatry has developed to help fill this void. Focused on integrating dietary change into a broader treatment plan that may include medication, talk therapy, and other lifestyle approaches, nutritional psychiatry has helped many patients. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, Dr. Uma Naidoo joins us to discuss the connections between food and mood and how dietary change can impact the gut microbiome and improve mental health outcomes. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/food-and-mood-nutritional-psychiatry-the-microbiome-and-mental-health/

Navigating Menopause: Hormones, Mental-Emotional Function, and Sexual Health Jun 27, 2023

The transition to menopause is a significant hormonal shift that marks each woman’s life and every journey is different depending on the person’s unique hormonal profile, health history, and wellness path. Along with the common vasomotor symptoms, women may also experience changes in arousal or desire and in mental-emotional function. Through nutrition and lifestyle change, women can stay empowered during menopause and maintain sexual health and optimal mental-emotional function. In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, leading sexual health and menopause expert Dr. Anna Cabeca will discuss her functional medicine approach to optimizing functional hormones, mental-emotional function, and sexual health during the stages of menopause. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/navigating-menopause-functional-hormones-libido-and-sexual-health/

Nutrition’s Role in Anxiety Disorders: Evaluating Mental Wellness With Dr. Kate Henry Jun 06, 2023

What role does nutrition play in anxiety disorders? Kate Henry, ND Head of Medical Education at RUPA Health, speaks with IFM podcast host Kalea Wattles, ND on this pertinent topic. Anxiety disorders in the US are common, affecting approximately 40 million adults every year. Concerns about mental health remain elevated three years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with 90% of US adults believing that the country is facing a mental health crisis. Both anxiety and panic disorders may severely impair a patient’s ability to function in life. While in some patients, mental wellness may be challenging to cultivate and maintain, clinical strategies that include nutrition interventions may have significant impacts. Dr. Wattles speaks with Dr. Henry about the nutritional imbalances that may contribute to the root cause of many mental health problems, as well as the role functional testing, including testing for nutrient deficiencies, which can help the clinician direct an appropriate treatment plan. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/nutritions-role-in-anxiety-disorders-evaluating-mental-wellness/

Phytocannabinoids for Treating Common Conditions May 16, 2023

Description: Understanding medical cannabis, how it interacts with the human brain and body and the current clinical applications is necessary for all healthcare professionals now that it is available in most states and many countries. Bonni Goldstein, MD, will discuss her clinical experience using phytocannabanoids to treat common conditions as well as her research into using them as a treatment in pediatric populations. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/phytocannabinoids-for-treating-common-conditions/

Increasing Healthspan: From Micronutrients to Hormetic Stressors, With Dr. Rhonda Patrick May 02, 2023

In this podcast, Rhonda Patrick, PhD, discusses healthy aging and longevity using personalized lifestyle-based approaches and emphasizes the importance of micronutrients, healthy fat intake, physical activity, and hormetic stress for disease prevention. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/increasing-healthspan-from-micronutrients-to-hormetic-stressors-with-dr-rhonda-patrick/

The Oral Microbiome & Systemic Disease Apr 11, 2023

After the gut, the second largest and most diverse microbiome in the body is located in the mouth. The oral microbiome is becoming an increasing area of interest in the medical community as research highlights several connections between chronic oral dysbiosis and systemic diseases, with inflammation being a common link. Pathogenic oral bacteria may influence inflammatory pathways particularly via the gut and by translocation through perivascular spaces. Thus, maintaining balance is the oral microbiome is a critical strategy for reducing inflammatory burden and reducing the risk of certain diseases. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we welcome 2023 Annual International Conference speaker Doug Thompson, DDS, FAAMM, ABAAHP, to discuss new prevention and treatment opportunities that bridge the gap between dental care and health care. Click here to view episode transcript:https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/the-oral-microbiome-systemic-disease/

Fueling for Fitness: Igniting Metabolism Through Personalized Lifestyle Interventions Mar 28, 2023

Jade Teta, ND discusses modifiable lifestyle factors integral to metabolic health, explores the intricate connections between hormones and an individual’s metabolism, and shares clinical pearls for collaborative, effective and sustainable personalized interventions. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/fueling-for-fitness-igniting-metabolism-through-personalized-lifestyle-interventions/

Healthy Aging and Longevity with Mark Hyman, MD Mar 14, 2023

Dr. Mark Hyman discusses the hallmarks of aging and how to optimize health and longevity through modifiable lifestyle factors and hermetic therapies. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/healthy-aging-and-longevity-staying-young-forever-with-mark-hyman-md/

Root Causes & Treatment of Mast Cell Disease Feb 28, 2023

Mast cell activation disorders may present as episodic inflammatory symptoms that come and go over time making them difficult to diagnose. These fluctuating symptom patterns include allergic-type responses and non-specific symptoms ranging across the cardiovascular, endocrine, gastrointestinal, dermatologic, and respiratory systems. Chronic diseases and lifestyle choices may influence mast cell dysregulation and overall immune system activation. Identifying potential antecedents and triggers of mast cell activation is an important clinical step for determining the impact of this activation on a patient’s medical condition and for developing a treatment plan that supports both structural integrity and a healthy immune response. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we welcome a pioneer in mast cell disease research, Dr. Lawrence B. Afrin to discuss recent advances in the literature and provide new insights on treating this complex disorder. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/root-causes-treatment-of-mast-cell-disease/

The 2022 Functional Medicine Year in Review Dec 13, 2022

Functional medicine continues to equip healthcare providers with the latest tools, technology, and research to innovate patient care and enhance clinical outcomes. Throughout 2022, we’ve had our finger on the pulse of several prominent topics in the research literature such as mast cell activation syndromes, new research on dementia prevention, diabetes remission, and a perennial favorite, the gut microbiome. A systems-based approach to health and disease is being increasingly acknowledged, with modifiable lifestyle factors taking a central role in cultivating the health outcomes we seek for our patients. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we’re recapping the functional medicine year in review with IFM’s Director of Medical Education Dan Lukaczer, ND, IFMCP, and the Director of Medical Education Initiatives Robert Luby, MD, IFMCP. They will discuss the clinical advances and clinical pearls gleaned from this calendar year, explore the state of research for trending topics in medicine, and shine light on new ways to enhance health, healing, and hope going forward. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/the-2022-functional-medicine-year-in-review/

Addressing the Root Causes of Cognitive Decline and Dementia Nov 15, 2022

As life expectancy increases around the world, so too are the rates of dementia and cognitive decline. These conditions may be a major concern for some patients, especially those with a family history or increased genetic risk for neurodegenerative disease. Multi-pronged lifestyle interventions including nutrition and exercise offer hope for the prevention and delay of cognitive decline by reducing neuroinflammation and improving brain plasticity. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we welcome Dr. David Haase to discuss the precursors to cognitive decline, how to address neurodegeneration, and support patient’s brain health long-term. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/addressing-the-root-causes-of-cognitive-decline-and-dementia/

Functional Medicine Approaches to Cancer Care Oct 26, 2022

Conventional mainstays of cancer treatment may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy, but these approaches may not be as effective as standalone treatments. Supporting cancer patients with complementary lifestyle-based interventions such as nutrition, exercise, and mind-body therapies, may help reduce the side effects of cancer treatment and improve outcomes. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, Dr. Aisha Chilcoat is joining us to discuss functional medicine approaches to oncology and how to support cancer patients during and after their treatment. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/functional-medicine-approaches-to-cancer-care/

Psychobiotics: Therapeutic Potential for Modulating the Gut-Brain Axis Sep 27, 2022

Communication between the gut and the brain is bidirectional and researchers continue to study whether brain and behavioral alterations seen in some mental health and neurological conditions are the result of intestinal dysbiosis or vice versa. This research had opened up therapeutic possibilities for targeting the microbiome to support overall mental and physical health. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, Dr. Holly Lucille joins us to discuss the concept of psychobiotics—beneficial probiotic bacteria in the gut that may improve health along the gut-brain axis as well as mental health outcomes. Click here to view episode transcript: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/psychobiotics-therapeutic-potential-for-modulating-the-gut-brain-axis/

Authentic Self & the Healing Journey Sep 06, 2022

A new article published in Integrative Medicine: A Clinician’s Journal (IMCJ) expands on the connections between lifestyle, behavior, and disease, and proposes that a lack of connection to our authentic selves is a major obstacle on the journey towards healing. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we welcome four of the article’s contributing authors, Drs. David Jones, Deanna Minich, Joseph Lamb, and Michael Stone, to discuss the importance of the therapeutic partnership and its role in helping patients sustain lifestyle change. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/the-healing-journey-connecting-to-authentic-self/.

Streamlining Care with IFM’s Toolkit Resources Aug 09, 2022

Pathways to Well-Being podcast edisode with Brandilyn Binstock, ND, and Briana Aspy, PA on utilitizing IFM’s clinical toolkit in practice. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/streamlining-care-with-ifms-toolkit-resources/.

Fasting, Hormones, and Men’s Sexual Health Jun 14, 2022

On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we welcome Dr. Mark Holthouse to discuss male hormone imbalances and how they affect men’s sexual health and function. We’ll explore the potential antecedents and mediators related to male infertility and erectile dysfunction and discuss how dietary interventions including fasting and aromatase-inhibiting foods can help naturally bring the body back into balance. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/fasting-hormones-and-mens-sexual-health/.

Utilizing Patient Data In Your Functional Medicine Practice May 17, 2022

On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, Dr. Shilpa P. Saxena joins the conversation to explore the concept of evidence-based practice and how the functional medicine approach is designed to support innovations in clinical care. She’ll also discuss how we can collect practice data and leverage that knowledge to increase practice efficiency and streamline effective patient care. Dr. Saxena will be presenting at the upcoming Annual International Conference, where she will be speaking on the topic of practice data analytics. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/utilizing-patient-data-in-your-functional-medicine-practice/.

Building the Functional Medicine Evidence Base May 03, 2022

Conducting research into the effectiveness of the functional medicine model requires overcoming some barriers, including the inherent difficulty of studying multimodal treatment strategies in randomized controlled studies. Even so, such research is critical to improving access to functional medicine care for all. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we discuss the efforts undertaken by the research team at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine to build a robust functional medicine evidence base. Michelle Beidelschies, PhD, and Nazleen Bharmal, MD, PhD, join us to discuss not only their most recent study on the benefits of shared medical appointments and lifestyle-related interventions in an under-resourced community, but also to share how their studies from the past, present, and future aim to highlight the feasibility, value, and effectiveness of the functional medicine model of care. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/building-the-functional-medicine-evidence-base/ .

Functional Fertility & Preconception Health Mar 29, 2022

On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, Leslie Stone, MD and Emily Rydbom CN, HN, CNP explore the intersection of functional medicine and pregnancy, from supporting fertility to optimizing fetal and maternal health through collaborative personalized care. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/functional-fertility-pregnancy-and-fetal-health/.

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome: The Functional Medicine Approach Mar 16, 2022

On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, Greg Plotnikoff, MD, will explore a topic that has been the subject of an increasing amount of research lately: mast cell activation. He’ll discuss how the functional medicine approach can help recognize when hyperactive mast cells may be contributing to a patient’s dysfunction and how we can begin to address this complex issue. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/mast-cell-activation-syndrome-the-functional-medicine-approach/.

Sustainable Diets Jan 25, 2022

In this podcast, Elizabeth Boham, MD, MS, RD, discusses how to create sustainable dietary interventions for patients with cardiometabolic concerns, including fasting and time-restricted feeding. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/fasting-sustainable-dietary-change-and-cardiometabolic-health/.

2021 Functional Medicine Year in Review Dec 21, 2021

As the COVID-19 pandemic continued throughout 2021, the functional medicine approach offered help by providing a model that both optimizes health in the short-term and also maintains long-term well-being and prevents future disease. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we’re recapping the functional medicine year in review with IFM’s Director of Medical Education Dan Lukaczer, ND, IFMCP and the Director of Medical Education Initiatives Robert Luby, MD, IFMCP. They cover the most prominent topics and takeaways from the 2021 medical research, highlight clinical advances, and present new opportunities for functional medicine care that practitioners should be considering as we head into the new year. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/the-2021-functional-medicine-year-in-review/.

Endocrine Disrupting Plastics: Minimizing Health Impacts and Restoring Well-being Oct 26, 2021

In the modern world, toxicant exposure is ubiquitous, with some studies reporting the average person is exposed to hundreds of environmental chemicals daily via air, water, soil, and food. While these exposures usually occur at a low-level, the bioaccumulation of toxins in the body can be a root cause of several types of dysfunction. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, Tom Malterre, MS, CN, clinical educator and cofounder of Whole Life Nutrition, explains the biochemical impacts of endocrine disrupting plastics such as Bisphenols like BPA and microplastics, and shares his insights on how nutrition and lifestyle can support the body’s biotransformation pathways and reduce total toxic burden. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/endocrine-disrupting-plastics-minimizing-health-impacts-and-restoring-well-being/.

Stress, Trauma, and Dysbiosis: Connecting the Gut-Brain Axis to Autoimmune Disease Oct 12, 2021

Stress and unresolved psychological trauma may cause dysbiotic patterns in the gut and conversely, gut dysbiosis may activate stress responses that upregulate inflammatory pathways. Chronic stress may impair communication along the gut-brain axis and is implicated in both psychiatric and GI-related comorbidities such as IBD. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, Keesha Ewers, PhD, MSN, ARNP, FNPc, founder of the Academy for Integrative Medicine and Functional Sexology, discusses how psychological trauma may exacerbate autoimmune processes and compromise the health and function of the gut microbiome. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/stress-trauma-and-dysbiosis-connecting-the-gut-brain-axis-to-autoimmune-disease/

Optimizing Outcomes: The Benefits of Health Coaching for Patients and Practitioners Sep 07, 2021

Collaborative care teams can enhance the quality and efficacy of care delivered to patients. Leveraging the expertise of multiple healthcare providers including nutritionists, pharmacists, psychiatrists, health coaches can improve long-term outcomes and keep patients engaged in the lifestyle modifications. Studies indicate that patients who work with health coaches in particular, demonstrate consistently higher rates of treatment adherence, improved self-efficacy skills, and a decreased recurrence of hospitalization. On today’s episode of Pathways to Well-Being, we welcome Monique Class, director of coaching development for the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy, to discuss the role of health coaching in improving both patient and practitioner outcomes. Working on a collaborative care team, with or as a health coach, has many benefits and can help reinforce several core concepts of functional medicine, including sustainable lifestyle change and facilitating the therapeutic partnership with patients. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/optimizing-outcomes-the-benefits-of-health-coaching-for-patients-and-practitioners/

Targeted Healing Inside the Brain: HYLANE Technology for Neuropsychiatric Care Jul 27, 2021

On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, noted psychiatrist Robert Hedaya, MD, ABPN, DLFAPA, IFMCP discusses the innovative HYLANE technology for addressing neuropsychiatric conditions like PTSD or TBI. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/targeted-healing-inside-the-brain-hylane-technology-for-neuropsychiatric-care/

Where Does Functional Medicine Go From Here? The 2021 AIC in Review Jun 29, 2021

On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, James Maskell from the Functional Forum discusses his top takeaways from AIC and what they mean for functional medicine in the future. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/where-does-functional-medicine-go-from-here-the-2021-aic-in-review/

Food Access & Insecurity with Clancy Harrison, MS, RDN May 25, 2021

Food insecurity and insufficient access to healthy foods have been associated with negative health outcomes, including an increased vulnerability for micronutrient deficiencies and a higher probability of developing chronic diseases. Nutrition interventions are essential therapeutic strategies for combatting many chronic diseases, yet food insecurity and limited access to affordable, varied, and nutritious foods may impede healthcare efforts. Clancy Harrison, a registered dietician with two decades of experience in nutrition and food insecurity, challenges the way food insecurity is approached in the US. In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, she will discuss the ways in which she is working to demolish the stigma around healthy food access. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/food-access-insecurity-with-clancy-harrison-ms-rdn/

The Fasting Mimicking Diet: Impacts on Aging and Chronic Disease with Valter Longo, PhD May 04, 2021

Fasting can be an important clinical tool to promote patient health. There are various approaches to fasting, which allows for the use of the most appropriate therapeutic application for each patient. Intermittent fasting strategies such as periodic fasting mimicking diets have a range of potential health benefits and may improve physical and mental health through multiple pathways, from triggering autophagy to enhancing mitochondrial health. On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, our guest Valter Longo, PhD, discusses the research into mechanisms behind the fasting mimicking diet and how fasting interventions impact disease risk factors and aging. Dr. Longo is also a plenary presenter at IFM’s AIC 2021 exploring new insights into fasting and the fasting-mimicking diet. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/the-fasting-mimicking-diet-impacts-on-aging-and-chronic-disease/

Pediatric Allergies, Atopy, & Autoimmunity: Influencing the Atopic March, With Julie Buckley, MD Mar 30, 2021

Research suggests that the presence of atopy itself may be considered a risk factor for the development of autoimmune diseases in adulthood. Atopic conditions often manifest in the first years of life, so as a clinician treating pediatric patients, how might we intervene in this atopic march during childhood to change outcomes? In this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, our guest Dr. Julie Buckley will discuss the connection between early childhood development, the atopic triad of eczema, allergies, and asthma, and how these atopic conditions might influence autoimmune development later in life. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/julie-buckley-md-pediatric-allergies-atopy-autoimmunity-influencing-the-atopic-march/

Improving Immune Resilience in Every Patient Mar 09, 2021

Susan Haddow, MD, IFMCP, board-certified in family medicineandintegrative medicine, who has worked primarily in underserved populations shares her clinical experiences in building immune resilience with all kinds of patients and how the environment around us can influence the potential of our immune systems. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/immune-system-resilience-and-the-environment/

Overcoming Barriers to Physical Fitness Feb 23, 2021

Crossfit Games athlete and family physician Julie Foucher, MD, MS, discusses the overall anti-inflammatory effect of regular, moderate bouts of exercise and how to get patients started on an exercise prescription. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/overcoming-barriers-to-physical-fitness/

Top Functional Medicine Clinical Themes of 2020 Dec 22, 2020

The year 2020 has been noteworthy in medicine for several reasons. In addition to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were several other clinical themes that impact functional medicine care. This episode of Pathways to Well-Being is a conversation with IFM Director of Medical Education Dan Lukaczer, ND, IFMCP and IFM Director of Medical Education Initiatives Robert Luby, MD, IFMCP about the top functional medicine clinical themes of 2020 and what they mean for your practice. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/podcast-functional-medicine-hot-topics-of-2020/

Lara Zakaria, RPh, and Elizabeth Board, MD, on Optimal Deprescribing Oct 20, 2020

Pharmacist Lara Zakaria, RPh, and physician Elizabeth Board, MD, both strong advocates for using food as medicine and substituting nutritional therapies for medication therapies for prevalent chronic conditions, discuss how pharmacists and primary care clinicians can work together to help their patients reduce their pharmaceutical burden. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/safely-deprescribing-medications-for-your-chronic-disease-patients/

Clinician Burnout: Coping from a Personal and Practice Standpoint Sep 29, 2020

Now more than ever, clinicians are facing higher rates of burnout and reporting lower satisfaction scores with their careers. Under heightened challenges and increased pressures during the pandemic, burnout is a silent burden plaguing the health care community. On this episode of Pathways to Wellbeing, Georgia Tetlow, MD, and Riva Z. Robinson, MD, discuss how burnout manifests in all stages of practice and the critical steps clinicians can take to improve their mental health. Burnout inspired both doctors to find new ways of healing, for themselves and for their patients. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/clinician-burnout-coping-from-a-personal-and-practice-standpoint/

The Pediatric Microbiome and Building Healthy Adults With Liz Mumper, MD, FAAP Sep 08, 2020

Can a healthy pediatric microbiome help to slow the rising levels of chronic disease? Dr. Mumper discusses thelatest research and shares clinical insights on how to support the pediatric microbiome, from collaborating with parents and training taste buds to oral tolerance and clues that point to gut dysfunction. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/pediatric-microbiome-building-healthy-adults-liz-mumper-md-faap/

Advancing Food Equity in Underserved Communities with Arti Chandra, MD, MPH Aug 11, 2020

To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/health-equity-focus-arti-chandra-md-mph/

Toxins and Health: An Interview with Joseph Pizzorno, ND Jul 29, 2020

Dan Lukaczer, ND, IFMCP, sits down with Joseph Pizzorno, ND, to discuss toxins, and the impact of toxic load on health. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/toxins-drivers-disease/

Autoimmunity, Prolonging Health, and Unpacking the Immune System Jul 29, 2020

Dr. Dan Lukaczer interviews Dr. Sam Yanuck To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/autoimmune-disorders-driving-forces-inflamed-brain-taking-high-road/

Interview With Dr. Patrick: Toxicants and Inflammatory Markers Jul 29, 2020

Dr. Lyn Patrick discusses the latest research and her insights on toxicants, inflammatory markers and methods for toxicant elimination. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/addressing-body-burden-discussion-lyn-patrick-nd-toxicants/

The Pediatric Microbiome with Elizabeth Mumper, MD Jul 29, 2020

Dr. Liz Mumper talks about ways to improve the health of a dysbiotic pediatric microbiome. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/pediatric-intestinal-microbiome-conversation-liz-mumper-md-faap/

Nathan Price: Predictive Biomarkers and Biological Aging Health Information Jul 29, 2020

Predictive Biomarkers and Biological Aging Health Information To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/nathan-price-phd-predictive-biomarkers-biological-aging/

Intermittent Fasting: An Interview With Dr. Jason Fung Jul 27, 2020

In this IFM interview, Jason Fung, MD, shares his knowledge and insights on the challenges, benefits, and misconceptions regarding intermittent fasting. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/fasting-flexibility-interview-dr-jason-fung/

Functional Medicine Research: Quality of Life, Iterative Healing, and the Therapeutic Partnership Feb 27, 2020

To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/functional-medicine-research-quality-life-iterative-health-therapeutic-partnership/

Clinical Applications & Treatments for Neurodegenerative Disease Feb 07, 2020

Dr. Kristi Hughes interviews Dr. David Perlmutter about clinical applications and treatments for neurodegenerative disease. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/neuro-clinical-application-treatment-neurodegenerative-decline/

The Power of the Process: Creating Positive Outcomes with David Rakel, MD Dec 17, 2019

In this podcast, IFM's Director of Medical Education, Dan Lukaczer, ND, interviews researcher, educator, and clinician David Rakel, MD, on the power of empathy, compassion, the placebo effect, and the patient story. As Dr. Rakel unpacks, "Trust equals competency times intimacy, divided by degree of risk." Dr. Rakel is also the author of The Compassionate Connection. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/power-process-creating-positive-outcomes-david-rakel-md/

Interview with IFM's Medical Director and Integrative Pain Treatment Specialist Mylene Tran Huynh Nov 15, 2019

Mylene Tran Huynh, MD, MPH, IFMCP, is an integrative pain specialist working at Walter Reed. She uses modifiable lifestyle factors and a range of integrative modalities to help patients suffering from chronic pain. Her approach is informed by Functional Medicine, and Dan Lukaczer, ND, Director of Medical Education at the Institute for Functional Medicine interviews her about pain treatment and the end states her patients reach. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/video-podcast-integrated-pain-management-walter-reed/

Wisdom on Working with Underserved Populations Oct 15, 2019

IFM's Director of Medical Education Robert Luby, MD, interviews Sharad Kohli, MD, on the many ways that clinicians can work with the underserved in any setting. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/podcast-wisdom-working-underserved/

Estradiol Treatment and Cognitive Decline with Ann Hathaway, MD Sep 18, 2019

For some women with cognitive decline, estradiol treatment may offer therapeutic options. In this 21-minute interview, IFM’s Dan Lukaczer speaks with Ann Hathaway, MD. Dr. Hathaway is a specialist in the use of bioidentical hormone replacement for menopausal women. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/neuro-how-and-when-to-consider-estradiol-for-cognitive-decline/

Terry Wahls, MD, On Being a Physician, Provocateur, and Patient Aug 13, 2019

In this interview, IFM's co-founder Jeffrey Bland, PhD, interviews the 2018 Linus Pauling award winner, Terry Wahls, MD. Dr. Wahls received this award for her work as a physician, researcher, teacher, and patient advocate. Her health journey led to the publication of her pioneering research in neurological disorders, and it serves as a beacon of inspiration to the Functional Medicine movement and community as a whole. “I am profoundly grateful to Functional Medicine, which has transformed me as a person, as a physician, and as a researcher,” says Dr. Wahls. For more info on Terry Wahls: https://www.ifm.org/about/profile/terry-wahls/ For more info on Jeffrey Bland: https://www.ifm.org/about/profile/jeffrey-bland/ To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/news-linus-pauling-award-winner-interview-drs-bland-wahls-dr-bland-interviews-dr-terry-wahls-journey/

A Menu of Strategies for Chronic Pain: Heather Tick, MD, on Nutrition Apr 16, 2019

In this interview, IFM's Director of Medical Education, Dan Lukaczer, speaks with Heather Tick, MD. Dr. Tick is a co-author on a white paper focused on non-pharmacologic approaches to treating chronic pain. She describes her perspective on patient education, the role of the primary care clinician in pain treatment, nutritional and lifestyle interventions for pain, and much more. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/pain-menu-strategies-chronic-pain-treatment-primary-care/

Addiction & Stress in Young Adults with Dr. Paul Thomas Apr 16, 2019

Interview with Paul Thomas, MD on stress and addiction in young adults. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/news-paul-thomas-md-addiction-stress-young-adults/

Long-Term Recovery from Addiction: Conversation With Dr. Loyd Mar 29, 2019

Stephen Loyd, MD, shares his personal and professional journey with addiction and addiction medicine. In his own words, "It's a day-to-day battle against the stigma of addictive disease." IFM's Dan Lukaczer, ND, interviews Dr. Loyd on topics ranging from the social determinants of addiction to health policy. Furthermore, they delve into why doctors and airline pilots have such high recovery rates from addiction. What's the role of early life trauma in addictive behaviors? What about underlying mental health conditions that contribute to addictive behavior? As a former opioid addict, Dr. Loyd has spent years of his life working on public health policies to reduce addiction and improve treatment. Dr. Loyd is one of the speakers at IFM's 2019 Annual International Conference. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/news-addiction-treatment-personal-to-professional-stephen-loyd-md/

Electrical Therapies, Chronic Pain & the Military with Dr. Hagedorn Mar 29, 2019

Dr. David Hagedorn is experienced in clinical health psychology and neuropsychology and serves as an international neuroscience and biofeedback research consultant and instructor. He is an assistant professor of military and emergency medicine and family medicine at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences School of Medicine. Here, he speaks with Dr. Dan Lukaczer, IFM's director of medical education, about his upcoming presentation at the Annual International Conference, "Electrical Stimulation for Pain." To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/pain-dr-dave-hagedorn-chronic-pain-military-population/

Salutogenesis, Integrative Medicine, and More with Dr. Jonas Mar 29, 2019

IFM's Director of Medical Education Dan Lukaczer interviews Wayne Jonas, MD, author of How Healing Works. As a pioneer in integrative medicine, Dr. Jonas shares his perspective on salutogenesis, HOPE notes, and more. To successfully treat the many patients with stress, pain, and addiction, whole person approaches are needed. Dr. Jonas shares his experience working in military settings, in public health, with nonprofits, and in his clinic. IFM's 2019 Annual International Conference explores how to successfully treat stress, pain, and addiction with cutting-edge researchers as well as practical workshops with experts like Dr. Jonas. To view the transcript for this episode, click here: https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/lifestyle-wayne-jonas-md-salutogenesis-pain-management/

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