Autoimmune Alchemy

Dr. Belinda Adams — a UK physician who traded the doctor's coat for the patient gown, going through six rounds of IVF before becoming a mother, and later founding Fertility Hero, an evidence-based supplement company built from everything she wished someone had told her. From discovering that egg quality isn't actually fixed, to using a gluten-free diet to normalize thyroid antibodies instead of steroids, this episode is packed with real clinical insight, hard-won personal experience, and practical fertility tools you won't hear anywhere else. We go deep into why infertility carries psychological symptom scores comparable to cancer patients, the shame and self-blame so many women silently carry, and the science behind sleep, melatonin, CoQ10, and five element acupuncture — plus what Belinda wishes she'd known before her very first IVF cycle. Chapter and Time Stamps: 00:58 Meet Dr Belinda Adams 01:43 Her Infertility Journey 04:15 Mental Health Toll 07:18 Dropping Shame and Blame 08:43 Getting Unstuck Tools 11:37 Visualization and Testing 15:12 Five Element Acupuncture 17:28 Egg Quality Lifestyle 20:46 When to Seek Help 22:09 Talking to Loved Ones 23:55 Self Care and Sleep 25:11 IVF Lessons Learned 26:43 Choosing Clinics Wisely 30:21 Autoimmunity and IVF 32:33 Why Fertility Hero Exists 35:11 Reading Supplement Labels 38:35 How to Take Supplements 40:56 Where to Find Belinda 41:53 Final Thanks and Goodbye Key Takeaways 🥚 Egg Quality Isn't Fixed — The Months Before Ovulation Matter 💔 Infertility Grief Rivals a Cancer Diagnosis Psychologically 🙅 Shame Isn't the Cause of Your Infertility — Let It Go 🧵 Some Emotions Are Healthy — Anger Can Spur You to Dig Deeper 🪡 Acupuncture May Help — But Nobody's Fully Sure Why Yet 😴 Sleep Isn't Just Rest — It Protects Egg Quality Through Melatonin 🔬 One Round of IVF Is an Experiment, Not a Verdict 🗣️ You Don't Owe Anyone Real-Time Updates on Your Journey Guest Details & Links Guest: Dr. Belinda Adams Specialty: UK Physician | Fertility, Hormones & Reproductive Psychology | Founder of Fertility Hero Background: After three years of unexplained infertility, Belinda took what she thought was a temporary break from clinical medicine to pursue IVF — a break that became permanent. She and her husband went through six rounds of IVF and four different clinics over several years before welcoming their two daughters. Being on the receiving end of care, having to ask to see her own blood results, completely reshaped how she understood the fertility system from the inside. Education: Trained and practiced as a physician in the UK before stepping away from clinical medicine in 2018 Certifications: N/A (medical training; not formally stated in episode) Past Work: Practiced clinical medicine in the UK; worked in medical education, which shaped her ability to critically evaluate fertility research and supplement evidence Turning Point: After her own struggles with raised thyroid antibodies, a chemical pregnancy, and repeated failed IVF cycles, Belinda used a gluten-free diet to normalize her thyroid antibodies as an alternative to steroids — an experience that deepened her belief in accessible, low-risk lifestyle interventions alongside conventional care Known For: Founder of Fertility Hero, a UK-based evidence-based fertility supplement company; vocal advocate for addressing the mental health toll of infertility, egg quality myths, and the overlap between autoimmune conditions and fertility struggles Offers: Third-party tested, evidence-based fertility supplements (CoQ10, magnesium bisglycinate, prenatal, omega-3) currently available in the UK, with plans to expand to Europe and the US Links: 🌐 Website: fertilityhero.co.uk 📷 Instagram: @fertilityhero About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

Your TSH is "normal" but you still feel exhausted, cold, and foggy — sound familiar? In this episode I sit down with Dr. Saadia Mian, a board-certified endocrinologist and functional medicine practitioner, to unpack why standard thyroid labs miss so many patients. Chapters & Time-stamps 00:39 Meet the Endocrinologist 01:43 Thyroid Symptoms Explained 03:20 Core Thyroid Lab Panel 04:34 Reverse T3 and Illness 07:33 Thyroid Metabolism Links 08:54 Insulin Testing and Targets 10:38 Treating Insulin Resistance 14:03 Thyroid and Sex Hormones 16:33 Why Free T3 Matters 19:19 Optimal Thyroid Ranges 20:47 Reverse T3 Ratio Use 21:58 Hashimoto’s With Normal Labs 24:51 Key Nutrients and Iodine 28:10 Hypothyroid Medication Options 31:33 Choosing the Right Meds 32:52 Graves’ Treatment Reality 35:31 Adjuncts and Nervous System 37:06 Supplements for Inflammation 38:31 Final Advice and Where to Find Her Key Takeaways: Why free T3 matters more than TSH alone — and the optimal ranges Dr. Mian looks for (free T3 ≥3.0, free T4 ≥1.0) The free T3-to-reverse T3 ratio functional practitioners use to catch what standard labs miss How untreated hypothyroidism quietly drives high cholesterol and insulin resistance Fasting insulin targets (≤5) and why postprandial insulin testing matters too Berberine, inositol, and cinnamon for blood sugar support The gut-autoimmunity-thyroid triad: genetics, leaky gut, and triggers Synthetic vs. desiccated thyroid hormone — how Dr. Mian decides which to use Low-dose naltrexone and ashwagandha as adjuncts for Hashimoto's and Graves' Why iodine supplementation needs to be individualized, not routine Guest Details Dr. Saadia Mian, MD, FACE, IFMCP is a board-certified endocrinologist and Institute for Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner, as well as a certified life coach. A Fellow of the American College of Endocrinology, she blends conventional endocrinology with root-cause, systems-based medicine. She's the founder of Precision Endocrine and The Functional Endocrinologist, focusing on thyroid health, metabolic optimization, weight management, and bioidentical hormone therapy. She's the author of Hormones in Sync: An Endocrinologist's Guide to Reclaiming Your Energy, Joy, and Health (releasing September 2026), a Detroit Hour Top Doc, and a sought-after speaker and educator. Connect with Dr. Mian: 🌐 Website: www.saadiamianmd.com 📸 Instagram: @dr.saadiamianmd 📘 Facebook: Saadia Mian MD 💼 LinkedIn: Saadia Mian MD 📍 Clinic: Woodhaven, Michigan About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

In this episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, Dr. Russell Kennedy — physician, neuroscientist, and founder of "The Anxiety MD," who reframes anxiety as a felt alarm in the body rather than a problem to think your way out of. From childhood alarm quietly fueling autoimmune flares to a simple ABC framework (Awareness, Body, Compassion) that helps patients finally get out of their heads and into their bodies, this episode is packed with real clinical insight and practical tools you won't hear anywhere else. Chapters and Time-stamps 00:31 Meet Dr Russell Kennedy 01:44 Origin Story and Sensitivity 03:53 Background Alarm Explained 05:33 Alarm Anxiety Cycle 07:52 LSD Insight Body Based Anxiety 10:08 Find Anxiety in the Body 12:52 Meditation and Thought Distance 16:08 Catastrophizing and Certainty Traps 19:10 ABC Method Get Into Body 24:13 Sensation Without Explanation 27:25 Adult Child Reunion and Autoimmunity 29:43 Autoimmune and Anxiety Link 30:45 ALARMS Childhood Triggers 32:44 Anxiety vs Depression Signals 33:51 Pain as a Lighthouse 36:55 Prayer and Trusting Life 40:56 Practicing Gratitude Daily 43:25 Why Medicine Falls Short 45:42 Group Healing and Patterns 49:52 Addiction Shame and Support 52:27 Surprised by Connection 55:01 Where to Find Dr Kennedy 56:36 Final Takeaway Connection Heals Key Takeaways 🧠 Anxiety Isn't in Your Mind — It's in Your Body 🚨 Every Anxious Person Has a Background "Alarm" Running 👶 Your Anxiety Is Actually Your Younger Self, Waiting 🫁 Sensation Without Explanation — Feel It, Don't Fix It 🔄 The ABC Method: Awareness, Body, Compassion 🩹 Autoimmune Flares Can Be the Child Asking to Be Heard 🤝 Connection Heals What Pills Never Will Guest Details & Links Guest: Dr. Russell Kennedy Specialty: Physician | Neuroscientist | Anxiety & Nervous System Healing Background: Grew up with a father who had schizophrenia and bipolar illness; developed his own anxiety disorder early in life; left traditional medicine after discovering healing comes through the body, not pharmaceuticals alone Education: Medical Doctor (MD); background in neuroscience Past Work: Practiced medicine for years before shifting fully into anxiety education, writing, and coaching Turning Point: A 2013 experience revealed his anxiety was held in his body (not his mind) — reshaping his entire approach to healing Known For: Bestselling, award-winning author of Anxiety Rx ; creator of the ABC Method (Awareness, Body, Compassion) and the ALARMS framework Offers: Online course — Your Mind Body Prescription for Permanent Anxiety Healing ; upcoming third book Also Known As: "The Anxiety MD" Links: 🌐 Website: The Anxiety MD 📷 Instagram: @TheAnxietyMD 📖 Book: Anxiety Rx About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

Dr. Tamiko Katsumoto is a Stanford rheumatologist who also runs a rare Rheumatology Oncology Clinic, treating patients whose cancer drugs trigger autoimmune flares. We break down why fiber is her #1 prescription, how forever chemicals hide in your fat for decades, and the simple gut hacks she uses with her own patients. Chapters & Time-Stamps 00:40 Meet Dr Katsumoto 01:58 Why Lifestyle Medicine 03:24 Cancer Immunotherapy Basics 06:07 Fiber Microbiome Link 07:23 Diet Counseling in Clinic 08:59 Whole Food Plant Predominant 10:54 Practical Patient Resources 14:17 Lifestyle Trials for Arthritis 18:39 Leaky Gut Explained 20:07 ZOE Microbiome Mega Studies 23:30 Keto Carnivore Debate 25:46 Microbial Diversity Tips 27:19 Tracking 30 Plants Weekly 28:24 Food Scanning Apps 29:18 Yuka For Products 30:17 Microbiome Testing Debate 31:36 Fiber And Crucifers 32:23 Broccoli Sprouts Hack 34:15 Toxins And Plastics 35:54 Forever Chemicals PFAS 37:17 Legacy POPs Explained 43:59 Pesticides And EWG 47:12 Lowering Toxic Load 48:28 When Fiber Hurts 51:19 Wrap Up And Where To Find Key Takeaways Cancer immunotherapy can trigger autoimmune arthritis as a side effect High-fiber, plant-forward eating improves both cancer and autoimmune outcomes Forever chemicals (PFAS, dioxins) accumulate in fat — especially animal fat Broccoli sprouts pack more detoxifying power than broccoli itself Apps like ZOE and Yuka make tracking food quality effortless Guest Details & Links Tamiko Katsumoto, MD, DipABLM is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Division of Immunology and Rheumatology at Stanford University, board-certified in lifestyle medicine. She directs Stanford's Rheumatology Oncology Clinic, co-chairs the ACR Climate Change Task Force, and co-leads the Food Systems, Health and Environment Working Group at Stanford's Center for Human and Planetary Health. Stanford: profiles.stanford.edu/tamiko-katsumoto LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tamiko-katsumoto-md-dipablm-62b29915 Instagram: @tamiko_katsumoto About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

In this episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, Dr. Stephanie Cowie — a naturopathic doctor and psychotherapist who blends functional medicine with mental health expertise to treat burnout, gut dysfunction, and hormone imbalances that leave women feeling dismissed and unheard. From burnout rooted in cortisol dysregulation to rage and irritability mistaken for a personality flaw instead of perimenopause, this episode is packed with real clinical insight and practical tools to help you finally read your body's signals correctly. Chapters and Time-stamps 01:30 What Burnout Really Is 02:45 Her Personal Journey 04:23 Key Burnout Symptoms 06:03 Cortisol And Stress Physiology 07:29 Gut Issues In Burnout 08:53 Daily Habits That Worsen It 11:27 Mood Changes In Midlife 15:27 Tools To Regulate Sleep 17:28 Caffeine Effects And Swaps 20:59 Alcohol As A Coping Ritual 23:24 Perimenopause Habit Traps 25:58 Her Wind Down Routine 28:05 Early Warning Signs 30:21 Talking To Family And Work 32:27 Signs You Are Recovering 34:06 Labs To Rule Things Out 36:36 Protein First Nutrition Strategy 40:03 Hormone Supporting Foods 41:45 Final Wisdom And Where To Find Her Key Takeaways 🔥 Burnout Isn't Laziness — It's an Empty Tank ⏰ Cortisol Has a Rhythm, and Burnout Breaks It 🍳 Breakfast Is the Glucose Regulator of Your Whole Day 😤 Rage That Doesn't Match the Moment Is a Signal, Not a Flaw 🌞 Morning Sunlight Beats Morning Scrolling — Every Time 🍷 That "Relaxing" Glass of Wine Is Sabotaging Your Sleep 🩸 Your Labs Can Tell You What Your Symptoms Can't 🛌 Healing Takes Patience — Rest First, Then Rebuild Guest Details & Links Guest: Dr. Stephanie Cowie, ND Specialty: Naturopathic Doctor | Certified Nutritional Practitioner | Gut, Hormone & Burnout Health Background: Struggled with debilitating exhaustion, brain fog, and bloating starting at age 22, after being repeatedly dismissed by practitioners as "just tired." That experience launched a years-long search for real answers — leading her to build a multidisciplinary practice treating burnout, gut health, and hormones through both a clinical and psychological lens. Education: Naturopathic Doctor (ND); Bachelor of Arts, McGill University (Spanish major, Italian & French minors); Master's in Human Development and Applied Psychology (M.Ed), University of Toronto; Diploma in Holistic Psychotherapy Certifications: Certified Nutritional Practitioner; Certified Life Coach; Certified Aromatherapy Health Practitioner Past Work: Practiced as a psychotherapist before transitioning fully into naturopathic medicine; co-authored Evidence Informed Nutrition with Dr. Vizniak Turning Point: Her own decade-long burnout — and the medical system's failure to explain it — pushed her to combine nutrition, functional labs, and nervous-system work into one integrated approach for women Known For: Dual-licensed ND (Ontario & British Columbia) specializing in perimenopausal women; helping patients decode burnout through cortisol, blood sugar, and gut-brain connections Offers: Customized gut and hormone strategies (Ontario & BC residents); upcoming online gut & hormone workshops Links: 🌐 Website: drstephaniecowie.com 📷 Instagram: @dr.stephaniecowie 🎵 TikTok: @drstephaniecowieND About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Beth Biggee, integrative rheumatologist, to explore how circadian rhythm — not just diet — shapes autoimmune health. We break down when to eat, exercise, and take supplements based on your cortisol and melatonin cycles, plus how Ayurvedic dosha types and fasting research apply to rheumatoid arthritis. Chapters + Timestamps 00:40 Meet Dr Beth Biggie 01:59 Her Integrative Journey 04:12 Circadian Rhythm Basics 07:04 Chrononutrition Timing 11:07 Hormones Sleep Repair 14:15 Fasting And Autophagy 18:10 Breakfast And Fiber 20:10 Best Time To Exercise 23:42 Chronotypes Night Owls 26:46 Ayurveda Doshas Sleep 30:09 Dinacharya Herbs Timing 32:03 Supplements And Med Timing 35:48 Milk Thistle For RA 37:21 Where To Find Dr Biggie 38:27 Final Takeaways Key Takeaways: Eat within a 12-hour window (roughly 6am–6pm) to sync with cortisol and melatonin Time-restricted eating and fasting-mimicking diets may support autophagy and reduce inflammation Ayurvedic dosha type can guide sleep, meal timing, and herb dosing Milk thistle may protect the liver and reduce disease activity in methotrexate users Exercise timing matters: gentle movement at sunrise, resistance training late afternoon Guest Bio & Links Dr. Beth Biggee provides holistic, human-centered autoimmune care at her direct care specialty practice, Lifestyle and Integrative Rheumatology, in North Andover, MA. She is triple board certified in Lifestyle Medicine, Integrative Medicine, and Rheumatology, with certificates in Auricular Acupuncture, Ayurveda, Reiki, HeartMath, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. She is honored to support patients on their journey toward deeper healing and optimal health of mind, body, and spirit. 🔗 Website: www.bethbiggeemd.com 📍 North Andover, MA (serving MA & NH) About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

Dr. Rebecca Hertel, DO, MSCP — an osteopathic physician and certified menopause practitioner who founded a telemedicine practice helping women navigate midlife with real answers instead of dismissal. From estrogen fluctuations silently driving vertigo, tinnitus, and migraines to darkest-day thoughts that terrified her before she found real answers, this episode is packed with real clinical insight and practical tools to help you finally read your body's signals correctly. Chapters and Time-stamps 01:24 Training Gaps In Menopause Care 02:22 Why She Chose Osteopathy 05:18 OMT In Real Practice 07:55 What Osteopathic Medicine Means 10:43 OMT Wins For Patients 12:54 Vertigo Tinnitus And Hormones 14:09 Her Perimenopause Wake Up Call 19:14 Symptoms And Dark Thoughts 22:04 Finding Help And Starting HRT 24:55 Gut Health Deep Dive 26:05 Hormone Tools Overview 26:39 Lifestyle Nonnegotiables 28:41 Longevity and Bone Health 31:31 Her Daily Routine 34:58 CGM and Blood Sugar 38:28 Zone Two Training Basics 41:27 Creatine and Collagen 43:22 Family Fitness Habits 44:55 Where to Find Her Key Takeaways 🌪️ Perimenopause Can Look Like Rage, Not Just Hot Flashes 🌀 Vertigo & Tinnitus Are Often Estrogen, Not Aging 🧠 Brain Fog Can Steal Your Confidence at Work 🙊 40-60% of Women Have Mood Dysfunction — Nobody Talks About It 💉 Hormone Therapy Is Support, Not a Magic Fix 🩸 A CGM Can Reveal Blood Sugar Swings You'd Never Suspect 💪 Creatine Isn't Just for Muscle — It Protects Your Brain 🏃 Zone 2 + Sleep Are the Longevity Basics That Actually Work Guest Details & Links Guest: Dr. Rebecca Hertel, DO, MSCP Specialty: Board-Certified Osteopathic Family Medicine Physician | Certified Menopause Practitioner | Midlife & Menopause Care Background: Despite being a physician, Rebecca went undiagnosed through years of debilitating perimenopause symptoms — irritability, brain fog, migraines, vertigo, and even frightening intrusive thoughts — while being told it was "just aging" or she was "too young for this." That experience launched her deep dive into menopause medicine and led her to build the practice she couldn't find herself. Education: Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine; Family Medicine residency; trained under Dr. Heather Hirsch in menopause care Certifications: Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP) Past Work: Nearly 20 years in family medicine, incorporating osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT); developed an OMT clinic during residency; moonlighted and trained under leading menopause specialists before launching her own telemedicine practice Turning Point: Her own undiagnosed, years-long perimenopause crisis — including dark, frightening thoughts and life-altering vertigo — pushed her to specialize fully in midlife women's health and hormone optimization Known For: Founder & CEO of Osteopathic Midlife Health; Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at LECOM; host of Midlife Minute news series; blending hormone therapy, OMT, and lifestyle medicine for women in perimenopause and menopause Offers: Telemedicine menopause care through Osteopathic Midlife Health; provider/community education and speaking 📷 Instagram: @DrRebeccaHertelDO 🎥 YouTube: Rebecca Hertel MSCP 🎙️ Podcasts: Dusty Muffins™ , The Founder's Series 📺 News Series: Midlife Minute About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

Dr. Yousef Zarbalian — "Dr. Z" — a board-certified rheumatologist who combines Chinese herbal medicine, medical acupuncture, and therapeutic fasting to treat autoimmune conditions that conventional medicine struggles to address. From a patient achieving 85% pain relief without pharmaceuticals to a hopeless fibromyalgia case turning around in just three weeks, this episode is packed with real clinical stories and practical integrative tools you won't hear anywhere else. Key Takeaways: Therapeutic fasting (Buchinger-style: herbal tea + vegetable broth) can dramatically reduce autoimmune inflammation — one patient saw 85% pain relief without any pharmaceuticals Chinese herbal formulas treat patterns, not just symptoms, using 8–12 herbs together — frankincense, myrrh, and coix seed are among Dr. Z's go-to anti-inflammatory herbs Early intervention is key — the less structural joint damage present, the greater the opportunity to heal with integrative tools alone Low-carb, low-starch diets show the strongest evidence for spondyloarthritis and RA, but no single diet works for everyone Elimination and reintroduction beats food sensitivity testing every time — IgG panels can mislead more than they help Herbal medicine can reduce the side effects of DMARDs like methotrexate, making it a powerful partner to Western treatment rather than a replacement Thunder God Vine studied head-to-head against methotrexate showed non-inferior results — but sourcing and dosing still need careful attention Chapters & Time-stamps 01:01 Meet Dr Z 02:11 Path to Integrative Rheumatology 04:30 Why Herbs Work 05:42 Personalized Medicine Limits 07:03 When to Use Drugs 09:15 Therapeutic Fasting Explained 17:34 Diet Strategies by Condition 21:21 Food Sensitivities and Testing 23:05 Herbal Formulas for Inflammation 26:11 Mixing Herbs with Meds 29:41 Surprising Patient Turnarounds 35:12 Mindset and Healing 36:04 Final Message and Where to Find Dr Z About Dr. Yousef Zarbalian (Dr. Z): Board-certified rheumatologist, herbalist, and medical acupuncturist. Founder of East West Rheumatology in Vienna, VA. Connect with Dr. Z: Website: www.eastwestmd.com Instagram: @eastwestmd | @dr.youssef_zarbalian Facebook: East West Rheumatology About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

Today's guest is the incredible Christine Ruch — holistic nutrition expert, nervous system healing coach, and a woman who walked away from everything — three thriving food businesses, a 30-year marriage, and life as she knew it — to find out why doing everything "right" still left her sick. Christine's personal journey from an MS and celiac diagnosis to closing her Boulder, Colorado restaurants, moving solo to the jungles of Costa Rica, and discovering the one missing piece that finally changed her health — her nervous system — is nothing short of extraordinary. In this episode, we go deep into why emotional capacity is the most underrated healing tool in chronic illness, how childhood wounds keep your nervous system locked in fight-or-flight, her simple 30-second practice that begins to shift your baseline, and why your body never lies — even when your mind does. If you've been eating clean, doing all the things, and still not healing — this one is for YOU. Chapters and Time-Stamps 00:53 Meet Christine Ruch 01:28 MS Diagnosis to Nutrition 02:25 Costa Rica Reset 08:56 Emotional Capacity Basics 12:27 Creating Inner Safety 16:23 Nature and Embodiment 18:55 30 Second Practice 22:18 Releasing Stored Trauma 27:29 Finding Your Light 30:19 Client Transformations 31:47 Programs and Farewell Key Takeaways 🍽️Food Is a Powerful First Gateway to Healing ⚠️The "Perfect Lifestyle" Can Still Leave You Sick 🌿The Nervous System Is the Missing Piece 🧘Build Emotional Capacity, 30 Seconds at a Time 💬You Are Not Your Emotions 🫀The Body Never Lies — Learn to Listen to It ✨Healing Becomes Embodied, Not a Daily Practice to Remember Guest Details & Links Guest: Christine Ruch Specialty: Nervous System Healing Coach | Holistic Nutrition | Autoimmune Wellness Background: Diagnosed with MS & celiac disease 20 years ago; healed through food and nervous system work Education: Degree in Holistic Nutrition Past Work: Ran 3 food businesses in Boulder, Colorado for ~10 years Training: Mentorship with two healers in Costa Rica; trained alongside therapists & healing arts practitioners Offers1:1 coaching calls, webinars, and a 3-month nervous system healing program Links: 🌐 https://www.christineruch.com/ About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

In this episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, I'm joined by my friend and integrative medicine colleague, Dr. Saimun Singla — a pediatric rheumatologist who was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis only after becoming a full-fledged rheumatologist herself. We dig into the real differences between juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and adult RA, why even doctors miss their own diagnoses, and how she blends Western medicine with diet, supplements, and mind-body therapy to get kids (and adults) into remission. Chapters and Time-Stamps 00:37 Meet Dr Saimun Singla 01:46 JIA vs RA Explained 03:26 Spotting JIA in Toddlers 05:28 Her Postpartum RA Diagnosis 08:23 When Treatments Keep Failing 11:49 Finding Remission and Reading Flares 13:12 Integrative Treatment Approach 15:28 Symptoms and Differential Diagnosis 18:48 Pediatric Only Conditions CRMO 21:13 When Families Fear Meds 23:14 Treat Early Remission 23:48 Prevent Permanent Damage 25:04 Risks Benefits Middle Ground 25:32 Not Forever Meds 26:36 Complementary Clinic Tools 27:54 Supplements For Kids 29:52 Best Diet Basics 32:47 Mind Body Regulation 34:50 Mind Body For Kids 36:10 Vagus Nerve And VR 38:00 Remarkable Recovery Story 40:06 Final Advice And Contact Key Takeaways: JIA vs RA: under 16 = JIA (7 subtypes), 16+ = RA, even though joint patterns differ Dr. Singla's own RA diagnosis came a year after she became an attending — proof doctors make the worst patients Fatigue and morning hand stiffness were her first red flags, easily dismissed as postpartum exhaustion CRMO is a pediatric-only bone condition that can mimic infection and later evolve into ankylosing spondylitis or psoriatic arthritis Treatment isn't just medication — sleep, stress, and micronutrients (vitamin D, iron) fuel or calm inflammation The Mediterranean/anti-inflammatory diet has the strongest evidence; elimination + reintroduction personalizes it further Mind-body medicine = nervous system regulation; for kids that means play therapy, guided imagery, and breathwork, not adult meditation Vagus nerve stimulation and VR breathing tools are growing in popularity, especially for teens Biologics aren't forever — the goal is lowest effective dose, or none, once remission is reached Untreated inflammation carries long-term risk: heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, diabetes, not just joint damage About Dr. Saimun Singla: Pediatric rheumatologist and integrative medicine physician treating autoimmune and chronic illness in children and young adults. Diagnosed with RA after becoming an attending rheumatologist, she brings a rare dual lens — physician and patient — to her work. Founder and CEO of Rheum to Grow, a naturally-minded, scientifically-grounded practice in Houston, TX blending Western and Eastern medicine. Connect with Dr. Singla: Website: rheumtogrowtx.com (book a free 15-min call) Instagram/Facebook/TikTok/YouTube: @rheumtogrowtx About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Dr. Rajsree Nambudripad — integrative internal medicine physician, gut health specialist, SIBO expert, and founder of OC Integrative Medicine in Fullerton, California. Dr. Rajshree's personal journey from debilitating bloating, food intolerances, and daily nausea to healing her own SIBO naturally is nothing short of transformational. We go deep into why so many IBS diagnoses miss the real root cause, the difference between hydrogen and methane SIBO, her powerful 4-phase herbal protocol, and how healing your gut can reverse everything from skin rashes to anxiety to autoimmune flares. If you've been told to just "live with" your gut symptoms — this one is for YOU. Chapters and Time-Stamps 00:53 Welcome and Guest Intro 02:27 Why SIBO Gets Missed 03:39 What SIBO Does in Gut 05:42 IBS vs SIBO Types 07:48 Herbal Protocol Origin Story 12:25 Four Phase SIBO Plan 14:33 Testing to Rule Out Causes 20:33 Microbiome Diet and Cravings 22:16 Stress Food and Antibiotics 25:34 Histamine and Probiotic Pitfalls 28:35 Best Supplements Digestive Enzymes 30:16 Digestive Enzyme Stack 30:53 Magnesium for Constipation 31:58 Motility Activator Basics 32:27 Phase-Based SIBO Strategy 34:10 Meal Spacing and MMC 35:23 Low-Bloat Food Swaps 36:57 Mindful Eating and Portions 39:19 Reintroducing Foods Safely 41:48 Nausea Relief Tools 43:57 Acid vs Non-Acid Reflux 50:34 Gut-Immune Connection Wrap 53:30 Where to Find Dr Rajshree Key Takeaways 🦠 IBS Is a Label, Not a Diagnosis 🧪 Know Your SIBO Type 🌿 Fix the Foundation Before Killing Bacteria 💊 Three Supplements That Change Everything 🍽️ Meal Spacing Is Medicine 🔬 Your Gut Drives Your Immune System 🥛 Go Slow With Reintroduction Guest Details & Links Guest: Dr. Rasjree Nambudripad, MD Specialty: Integrative Internal Medicine | Gut Health | SIBO Expert Practice Location: Fullerton, California Training: Internal Medicine Residency at Northwestern University; Gastroenterology Fellowship at UC Irvine Links: Website: oc-integrative-medicine.com 📺 YouTube: @drrajsree 📸 Instagram: @dr_rajsree_nambudripad About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

What does it actually look like when a patient goes from swollen joints, X-ray erosions, and almost starting a biologic — to zero inflammation, no medications, and running on a treadmill again? In this episode, I sit down with my patient Jenny Heiss, who has lived with rheumatoid arthritis for 10 years. Her road to remission is one of the most remarkable I've seen in my clinic, and I wanted her to share it in her own words. We talk about her decade-long search through conventional rheumatology, holistic practitioners, ozone therapy, and methotrexate side effects — and the three things that finally turned everything around: Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN), MSM supplementation, and Low-Dose Immunotherapy (LDI) using a Proteus/Klebsiella antigen. Jenny has now been in full remission for 2.5 years with zero joint inflammation on labs and zero disease limitations. This one is for anyone who's been told biologics are their only option. Key Takeaways Seronegative RA is still real RA Methotrexate isn't the only answer — and side effects are real MSM was a surprisingly powerful first step LDI works by retraining the immune system, not suppressing it Root cause matters — bacteria may trigger RA Food is medicine — and Jenny proved it early on Remission means getting your life back — completely There's no right or wrong path to healing Chapters & Time-Stamps 00:56 Meet Jenny Hess 01:47 First Signs and Diagnosis 02:53 Methotrexate Experience 03:19 Holistic Detours and Setbacks 04:41 Minocycline and Moving States 07:02 Seropositive Shift and Fears 09:01 Starting Care With Dr Yu 09:33 Supplements and LDN Gains 10:11 LDI and Lab Turnaround 12:07 Life in Remission 14:53 Current Regimen Breakdown 15:44 How LDI Works 17:34 Diet and Lifestyle Foundations 19:38 Closing Thoughts and Next Steps Guest & links Jenny Heiss — Patient & RA Remission Advocate Patient of Dr. Micah Yu | 10-year RA journey, now in full remission No social media listed — her story speaks for itself Dr. Micah Yu, MD — Host Integrative Rheumatologist & Functional Medicine | Newport Beach, CA Clinic: drlifestyle.org LDI episode reference: Search "Dr. Ty Vincent" on Autoimmune Alchemy About Your Host Dr. Micah Yu, DC, CFMP Functional Medicine Practitioner & Host of AutoImmune Alchemy Dr. Micah Yu is a doctor of chiropractic and certified functional medicine practitioner specializing in autoimmune conditions and chronic illness. He recognizes mold exposure as a common root cause of autoimmune disease, particularly in patients with long-haul COVID who suddenly develop mold sensitivities. Dr. Yu is passionate about educating his community on environmental toxins and bringing expert voices like John Banta to help patients understand the hidden triggers affecting their health. He practices integrative medicine with his wife, creating a dynamic team dedicated to uncovering root causes and supporting patients on their healing journey. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University’s Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex chronic conditions. Hosted by Dr. Micah Yu, the show explores root causes like mold exposure, infections, and environmental toxins that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode features expert interviews and cutting-edge treatments to help listeners understand the "why" behind their illness and find pathways to healing. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy: Website: MyautoimmunemdHome – New Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand mold's role in chronic illness, please leave a 5-star review! This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or remediation. Individual results may vary.

If you've been bouncing between specialists with no answers, this episode might be the missing piece. Dr. Melissa Mondala and I break down everything you need to know about Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) — one of the most underdiagnosed conditions we see at our clinic. From head-to-toe symptoms and tricky lab work to root causes like long COVID, mold, Lyme disease, and trauma, we cover it all — and share the exact treatment tools we use. Key Takeaways MCAS is a master mimicker Tryptase alone is not enough Symptoms are the diagnosis when labs fail Always look for the root cause MCAS, POTS & hypermobility often travel together Trauma and stress are real biological triggers Diet and lifestyle are the foundation — not an afterthought MCAS treatment is never one-size-fits-all Chapters & TimeStamps 1:12 — What Is MCAS? (Overview) 2:42 — What Are Mast Cells? 8:49 — Lab Testing for MCAS 13:23 — Diagnosis Criteria (Consensus 1 & 2) 16:07 — Root Causes of MCAS 16:35 — Long Haul COVID & POTS 24:47 — Mold Exposure as a Trigger 32:17 — Treatment Approach 37:32 — Prescription Medications (LDN, Ketotifen, Cromolyn, Xolair) 39:48 — GLP-1s, Peptides & Closing Remarks About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

Today's guest is the incredible Dr. Vincent Pedre — integrative physician, Medical Director of Pedre Integrative Health in NYC, founder of Happy Gut Health , and bestselling author of Happy Gut and The Gut Smart Protocol . Dr. Vincent's personal journey from 20+ rounds of childhood antibiotics to healing his own IBS, eczema, and leaky gut is nothing short of transformational. In this episode, we go deep into the gut-immune connection, the power of fermented foods, peptide therapy, mitochondrial health, and even the hidden toxins in your morning coffee. If you have an autoimmune condition, chronic inflammation, or just want to optimize your gut — this one is for YOU. Chapters & Time Stamps 0:56 Introduction & Welcome 2:00 Dr. Pedre's Personal Gut Health Journey 6:02 Childhood Foods & Antibiotic Overuse 6:48 Discovering Functional Medicine & Diet Clean-Up 10:33 Going Gluten-Free & Building a Clean Home 11:27 Dr. Pedre's Books: Happy Gut & The Gut Smart Protocol 13:33 Fermented Foods vs. High Fiber Diet Study 14:21 Gut Microbiome Diversity Explained 18:54 Fermented Foods Win Over Fiber for Inflammation 20:29 How Fermented Foods Increase Gut Diversity 24:13 Pesticides, Glyphosate & Gut Disruption 25:08 Leaky Gut, Dysbiosis & Chronic Disease 26:18 Gluten, Dairy & Healing Food Intolerances 26:52 Peptide Therapy for Gut Healing 30:12 What Are Peptides & How They Work 31:21 GLP-1 Medications — Benefits & Cautions 32:34 Key Supplements: L-Glutamine, Zinc, Omega-3s 35:08 Mitochondria: The Next Frontier in Health 37:10 Mitochondrial Damage: Antibiotics, Toxins & EMF 40:15 Red Light Therapy & Mitochondrial Energy 43:23 GLP-1 & SIBO — What's the Connection? 45:37 Happy Gut Coffee — The Origin Story 48:53 Coffee's Hidden Dangers & Health Benefits 50:58 Where to Find Dr. Pedre & Happy Gut Coffee GUEST DETAILS & LINKS Dr. Vincent Pedre, MD Integrative & Functional Medicine Physician | Gut Health Expert | Author 🌐 Website: happygut.com ☕ Happy Gut Coffee: happygutcoffee.com 📸 Instagram: @DrPedre 📚 Books: Happy Gut | The Gut Smart Protocol About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

SHOW NOTES On this episode of AutoImmune Alchemy, I sit down with Dr. Scott Antoine — triple board-certified integrative and functional medicine physician, Amazon bestselling author, and one of the leading experts in PANS and PANDAS. His journey into this field began when his own daughter Emma was suddenly struck with severe OCD, defiance, and behavioral changes at age 12 — only to recover dramatically after IVIG treatment. That experience changed everything. If you've ever wondered why your child's psychiatric diagnosis didn't respond to treatment, or if their symptoms came on suddenly out of nowhere, this conversation could be life-changing. Chapters & Time-Stamps 1:01 Dr. Antoine's Personal Story with PANDAS 3:19 What is PANS & PANDAS? 5:47 IVIG & Insurance Coverage 7:10 History of the Diagnosis 10:32 Medical Acceptance & Controversy 18:27 Diagnosis & Workup 29:10 Mycoplasma & Epstein-Barr Virus 36:53 Treatment Monitoring & Antibiotic Duration 45:41 Holistic Treatment Approach 48:55 Final Words & Hope for Families 49:49 Where to Find Dr. Antoine Guest Details Triple board-certified integrative & functional medicine physician, PANS/PANDAS expert, and author of the Amazon bestselling Comprehensive Physician's Guide to the Management of PANS & PANDAS. Co-owner of the Center for Fully Functional Health in Carmel, Indiana. 🔗 fullyfunctional.com 🔗 thepandasdocs.com 📱 @thepandasdocs About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

In this powerful episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, I sit down with Dr. Jila Senemar — OB/GYN, longevity physician, and founder of the Miami Menopause Collective. With 20 years of experience, Dr. Jila is rewriting the narrative around menopause — from fear to freedom. We cover everything from early perimenopause signs and comprehensive lab testing to bioidentical hormones, PCOS, microplastics, and why lifestyle always comes first. If you've ever felt dismissed by your doctor, this episode is for YOU. 10 KEY TAKEAWAYS It's not anti-aging — it's longevity. Lifestyle is non-negotiable first. Perimenopause doesn't start with hot flashes. Iron deficiency is massively underdiagnosed. Your cardiovascular risk skyrockets after menopause. All bioidentical hormones are FDA-approved. Comprehensive labs are not expensive. PCOS and endometriosis are driven by environment. Food can restore ovulatory cycles in PCOS. Women need time, not a 5-minute visit. CHAPTERS 01:34 What Anti Aging Means 03:04 Start With Lifestyle Basics 04:58 When Stress Catches Up 07:57 Early Perimenopause Clues 10:46 Menopause As New Chapter 13:02 Stepwise Plan And Supplements 16:57 Red Light And Sauna Reality 18:25 Labs To Check First 22:19 Cardio Risk After Fifty 24:40 When To Consider Hormones 25:49 Hormone Therapy Reframed 27:01 Bioidentical and Delivery Options 28:23 Hormones Autoimmunity and Heart Risk 29:02 PCOS Metabolic Roots 30:52 Toxins and Fertility Trends 32:22 Endometriosis New Science 33:07 Optimizing Women in Their 20s 34:52 Patient Wins Lifestyle and Listening 40:08 Why Womens Health Needed More 43:25 Miami Menopause Collective and Empower 47:04 Where to Find Her 47:49 Closing Thanks and Takeaways GUEST DETAILS Dr. Jila Senemar, MD | OB/GYN | Longevity & Women's Health Physician Founder — Miami Menopause Collective Host — Her Time, Her Health Podcast Perimenopause · Menopause · Hormones Longevity Medicine · Women's Integrative Health 20+ Years in OB/GYN & Women's Health Based in Miami, Florida CONNECT 🌐 jilamd.com 📸 @drjilasenemar (Instagram) 🎙️ Podcast: Her Time, Her Health 📍 Miami, Florida About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

In this episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, I sit down with my fellow Andrew Weil Center cohort member and dear friend, Dr. Micah Howard — integrative physician, hypnotherapist, and Alabama's trailblazer in root-cause medicine. We dive DEEP into the testosterone conversation most doctors are getting wrong. Is TRT always necessary? What's really driving the hormonal crash in men? And what can herbs, lifestyle, and nitric oxide do before you ever pick up a syringe? Whether you're navigating autoimmune disease, fatigue, or hormonal imbalance — this one's for you. 10 KEY TAKEAWAYS Testosterone isn't a fix-all. Body fat is the #1 testosterone killer. Endocrine disruptors are real and everywhere. Remove the poison before you add anything. Natural boosters work — if you give them time. Nitric oxide is the unsung hero of men's health. Testosterone levels are wildly dynamic. GLP-1s are a double-edged sword. Testosterone can improve autoimmune symptoms. Sugar is hormonal sabotage — and it's addictive by design. CHAPTERS 01:52 Testosterone Hype And Risks 04:19 Why Levels Are Dropping 07:03 Endocrine Disruptors 09:04 GLP One Tradeoffs 10:17 Target Levels And Testing 13:12 Deficiency Signs And Vascular Health 14:37 Lifestyle Before TRT 18:18 Women And Testosterone 20:13 Natural Boosters And Herbs 23:54 Hibiscus For Water Retention 24:25 Hawthorn And Vessel Support 25:08 Ginseng And Key Adjuncts 27:27 Best Forms To Take 29:25 Stacking Versus Single Herbs 30:19 Men Versus Women Use 31:18 Trial Timelines And Goals 33:41 Testosterone Delivery Options 36:01 Autoimmune Links And Sugar Breaks 39:59 Wrap Up And Where To Find GUEST DETAILS Dr. Micah Howard, MD, ABOIM Board-Certified Integrative & Family Physician | CEO & Medical Director, Healing University Alabama's first integrative primary care clinic — rooted in Ayurvedic, Native American & evidence-based medicine. 🎓 Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine Fellow 📍 Decatur, Alabama 📖 Author of Body of Work + 7 published collections 🌐 Website: bewellconnective.com 📧 Email: micahhowardmd@gmail.com About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website:MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic:www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

Today I have Dr. Becca Chilczenkowski, board-certified practitioner and hormone specialist who was a top 100 CrossFitter yet gained 15 pounds in one month and lost her cycle for three years from overtraining. Genetic testing revealed her inflammatory system turns on easily and struggles to turn off, making extreme exercise backfire. Becca reveals why detoxification—liver, gallbladder, bile support—is foundational, why she cut training from 6 days to 3 days weekly and became leaner, and why peptides are a "privilege you must earn" through lifestyle work first. She shares healing weight loss resistance, autoimmune, and MCAS through nervous system regulation, faith, and honoring rest as productive. Key Takeaways Genetics: Some bodies turn on inflammation easily, struggle to shut off Detox first: Liver, gallbladder, bile before hormone optimization Exercise less: 3 days strength beats 6 days HIIT Rest is productive: Body forces rest if you don't choose it Protein moderation: 80-90g/day works better for some Peptides privilege: Earn through lifestyle, not replacement Bile crucial: Main hormone detoxifier, methylation support Genetic testing: Infron Pro 7 validates struggles Nervous system: Faith, journaling, vagus nerve essential Mindset matters: Self-talk sabotages healing Chapters & Timestamps 01:11 Becca Fitness Origins 02:28 Injury IVF And Weight Gain 03:10 Functional Medicine Awakening 05:35 Beyond Hormones Root Causes 06:27 Inflammation Stress And Metabolism 08:19 Where To Start Cell Detox 10:20 Exercise Stress Perimenopause 11:56 Nervous System Grounding Tools 15:28 Bile Liver And Gut Support 17:47 Fitness Myths Rest Protein 21:42 Learning To Rest And Reset Mindset 24:22 Gut Rebuild Strategy 26:54 Methylation Detox Basics 28:58 Labs That Matter Most 31:48 Genetics For Personalization 34:00 Muscle Bone Without HRT 36:38 Training Styles That Stick 39:16 Nutrition For Strength 41:16 Peptides Safety First 44:02 Peptides Pros And Cons 47:24 Mindset Faith And Support 49:35 Where To Find Becca Guest Details Dr. Becca Chilczenkowski — Board-Certified Practitioner & Hormone Specialist Background: Former top 100 CrossFitter. Lost 40-50 lbs competing, then gained 15 lbs in one month despite perfect diet/exercise. Lost cycle 3 years from overtraining. Discovery: Genetic testing (Infron Pro 7) revealed highly responsive inflammatory system—turns on easily, struggles to turn off. Practice: Virtual practice for weight loss resistance, autoimmune, MCAS, long COVID. Chicago-based. Philosophy: Detox first (liver/gallbladder/bile). Rest is productive. Peptides require earning through lifestyle. Faith-based. Connect: Instagram: @theHormoneQueen Website: FitMom.co About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

Today I have Mickey Trescott, nutrition professional and AIP pioneer who trained 1,000+ providers worldwide. Mickey shares her journey from bedridden with Hashimoto's/Celiac to creating the AIP movement, and reveals groundbreaking research: 73% IBD patients achieved clinical remission in 6 weeks, Hashimoto's patients lost 8 pounds eating the same 2,000 calories through reduced inflammation, and 29% CRP reduction without changing thyroid meds. She introduces Modified AIP—including rice, legumes (no soy/peanuts), ghee, seeds—making the protocol less restrictive. Her new book The New Autoimmune Protocol covers 9 human studies with easy recipes for both core and modified AIP. Chapters & Timestamps 01:00 Mickey's Hashimoto's & Celiac Journey 07:00 What Is Autoimmune Protocol Diet? 09:00 Modified AIP: Rice, Legumes, Ghee, Seeds 16:00 IBD Study: 73% Remission in 6 Weeks 20:00 Hashimoto's: 29% CRP Reduction 23:00 Weight Loss Without Calorie Restriction 28:00 RA Study: 7 of 9 Improved 35:00 Elimination Phase: 30-90 Days 39:00 AIP vs Paleo Differences 42:00 Nightshades & Autoimmune Guest Details Mickey Trescott, NTP, MS — Nutrition Professional & AIP Pioneer Training: MS in Human Nutrition & Functional Medicine. AIP Certified Coach program co-creator (1,000+ providers trained). Background: Hashimoto's & Celiac survivor. Created AIP movement from online community experiments. Collaborated on 9 human AIP studies. Books: The New Autoimmune Protocol (May 26, 2025), The Autoimmune Paleo Cookbook , The Autoimmune Wellness Handbook , The Nutrient Dense Kitchen Connect: Website: TheAutoimmuneProtocol.com Social: @MickeyTrescott Book: May 26, 2025 About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

Today I'm honored to have Dr. Salome Masghati, OB-GYN and pelvic surgeon who transitioned from operating rooms to preventative medicine. Dr. Salome reveals why autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto's, lupus, and RA spike during perimenopause—estrogen is anti-inflammatory, and when it declines, cortisol dysregulates, inflammation rises, and autoimmune flares. She explains why calorie restriction backfires in midlife, worsening cortisol and weight gain, and shares practical steps: morning sunlight, protein breakfasts, resistance training, gut testing, and hormone optimization. Hormones alone aren't enough—you need proper liver detox, gut health, and anti-inflammatory diet to truly heal. Key Takeaways Autoimmune diseases spike in perimenopause when estrogen (anti-inflammatory) declines Cortisol dysregulates when estrogen drops—overactive to compensate Calorie restriction worsens cortisol dysregulation—don't undereat in midlife Start simple: morning sunlight, protein breakfasts, resistance training (not just cardio) Estrogen & testosterone are immune modulators—decline = autoimmune flares Hashimoto's, lupus, RA improve in pregnancy, worsen in menopause Hormones need gut health, liver detox, anti-inflammatory diet to work Heavy/painful periods, cyclical migraines = hormone-related symptoms COVID disrupted gut microbiome—long COVID worsened autoimmune Individualized testing: gut, heavy metals, micronutrients Chapters & Timestamps 02:00 Cortisol Clues: Exhausted Mornings, Wired Nights 03:00 Why Cortisol Goes Haywire in Perimenopause 05:00 Metabolic Changes: Weight Gain, Insulin Resistance 07:00 Simple Starts: Sunlight, Protein, Resistance Training 10:00 Autoimmune Diseases Spike When Estrogen Declines 12:00 Hormones Need Gut Health & Liver Detox 14:00 When Is Surgery Needed vs Lifestyle? 16:00 Environmental Toxins & COVID Impact 17:00 Beyond Basic Bloodwork Guest Details Salome Masghati, MD — OB-GYN, Pelvic Surgeon & Hormone Specialist Training: OB-GYN, pelvic surgery, regenerative medicine, advanced hormone therapy, preventative wellness Current Focus: Preventative medicine—balancing hormones to prevent surgeries, addressing root causes (gut health, environmental toxins, metabolic dysfunction) Philosophy: Individualized care. Hormones must be balanced with proper liver detox, gut microbiome, anti-inflammatory diet. Connect: Instagram: @drsalomemasghatimd Website: DrsalomemasghatiIndividualized Hormone Therapy for Women | Dr. Salome Masghati About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website: MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic: www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 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