In this episode of Dare to Age Well Now, host Angela Belford speaks with Dr. Tricia Thompson, a former emergency physician turned functional medicine physician. They discuss the differences between traditional and functional medicine, focusing on the importance of understanding the root causes of chronic illnesses, particularly inflammation and autoimmune disorders. Dr. Thompson emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to healing, which includes nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes, rather than solely relying on pharmaceuticals. The conversation highlights the potential for recovery and improvement in quality of life for those suffering from chronic conditions.

Takeaways

• Tricia Thompson transitioned from emergency medicine to functional medicine to address chronic health issues.
• Functional medicine focuses on finding the root causes of health problems, particularly inflammation.
• Chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS) can lead to various health issues, including autoimmune diseases.
• Traditional medicine often focuses on symptom management rather than addressing underlying causes.
• Autoimmune disorders are often linked to gut health and can be managed through functional medicine approaches.
• Patients can see significant improvements in their health within weeks of starting functional medicine treatments.
• The body has an innate ability to heal if given the right tools and nutrients.
• Holistic approaches to health include diet, supplements, and lifestyle changes.
• Many patients are unaware of the options available to them outside of traditional medicine.
• Functional medicine practitioners can often identify health issues through patient history rather than extensive testing.

Titles

• Healing Beyond Symptoms: A Functional Medicine Approach
• The Power of Inflammation: Understanding Chronic Illness

Sound Bites

• "I want people to get better."
• "Our bodies only know how to heal."
• "We deal with all of you."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Functional Medicine

02:56
Understanding Inflammation and Its Impact

05:51
The Role of Traditional Medicine

08:47
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome

11:54
Autoimmune Disorders and Their Management

14:44
Finding the Root Cause of Illness

17:34
Holistic Approaches to Healing

20:38
Conclusion and Resources

Summary

In this episode of Dare to Age Well Now, Dr. Tenasha Ward discusses the principles of functional medicine, emphasizing the importance of identifying and addressing root causes of health issues rather than merely treating symptoms. The conversation covers various topics, including menopause, chronic illnesses, gut health, detoxification, and practical lifestyle changes that can enhance overall well-being. Dr. Ward shares her insights on the significance of hydration, sunlight, and the body's natural healing capabilities, encouraging listeners to take proactive steps towards aging well.

Key Takeaways

Functional medicine focuses on finding and fixing root causes.
Many patients experience frustration with traditional medical diagnoses.
Menopause symptoms can be managed with proactive care.
Gut health plays a crucial role in overall wellness.
Candida overgrowth can lead to various health issues.
Detoxification is essential for removing environmental toxins.
Hydration and sunlight are vital for health and healing.
Simple lifestyle changes can lead to significant health improvements.
The body has a remarkable ability to heal itself.
Aging well requires a holistic approach to health.

Sound bites

"Water is life."
"This water is healing me."
"Dare to age well now."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Functional Medicine and Dr. Tanisha Ward
02:47 The Importance of Root Cause Analysis in Health
05:55 Menopause and Hormonal Balance
08:45 Understanding Candida and Its Impact on Health
11:37 Environmental Toxins and Their Effects
14:20 Detoxification: Methods and Considerations
17:08 Practical Steps for Health Improvement
19:57 The Role of Hydration and Sunlight in Wellness

Summary

In this episode, Angela Belford interviews Amber Ratcliffe, founder and CEO of Arbor Health Functional Medicine and Psychiatry. They discuss the intricate relationship between physical and mental health, emphasizing that many mental health issues stem from physical imbalances. Amber shares her personal journey of experiencing adrenal fatigue after years of high stress and how she discovered functional medicine as a solution. The conversation covers the importance of proper testing, nutrition, and lifestyle changes in addressing adrenal fatigue and improving overall health.

Key Takeaways

• Mental health issues often have physical root causes.
• Functional medicine focuses on finding the root cause of health issues.
• Adrenal fatigue is a common but often overlooked condition.
• Stress can lead to significant physical health problems.
• Proper testing is crucial for diagnosing adrenal fatigue.
• Nutrition plays a vital role in recovery from adrenal fatigue.
• Gentle exercise and adequate sleep are essential for healing.
• Electrolyte balance is important for adrenal health.
• Lifestyle changes can significantly improve mental and physical well-being.
• Support from functional medicine can lead to lasting recovery.

Quotes

• "I was running on adrenaline."
• "Exercise isn't the answer."
• "Cortisol is not all bad."
• "Not all salt is created equal."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Functional Medicine and Mental Health

03:05 The Connection Between Physical and Mental Health

06:01 Personal Journey: From High Functioning to Adrenal Fatigue

08:57 Identifying Adrenal Fatigue and Its Symptoms

12:04 Addressing Adrenal Fatigue: Testing and Treatment

14:52 Practical Solutions for Recovery

17:58 The Importance of Nutrition and Lifestyle Changes

21:02 Conclusion and Resources

Ready to connect with Amber? Her website is: https://www.arbor-health.com/