What's the Root Cause? by Dr Vikki Petersen

Root Cause Medical Clinic
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"What's the Root Cause?" is brought to you by Root Cause Medical Clinic, featuring Dr. Vikki Petersen—renowned doctor, functional medicine expert, author of "Hiatal Hernia Syndrome" and host of a highly popular YouTube channel. Dr. Vikki Petersen and her team of clinicians provide cutting-edge solutions in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, nutrition, food, hormones, genetics, lifestyle, and more. You don’t have to accept feeling unwell or struggling with chronic health issues. Your body has the power to heal, and with the right approach, reversing many health conditions is possible. We're here to help you do just that. Have questions about your health? Contact us today at 727-335-0400 or visit RootCauseMedicalClinics.com.

  1. 6D AGO

    Heartburn After 45: What's Changing

    Have you noticed an increase in acid reflux with age? Some studies cite the increased risk at ~47% in women during perimenopause and menopause. Women using hormone replacement have an increased risk of reflux of 40 to 70% as compared to women not using hormones. In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why women tend to experience more reflux as they approach perimenopause and menopause. This has prompted the question of whether those on hormones had to be put on a PPI to handle their reflux OR stop their hormones to settle the heartburn? You don’t need to make that decision. You can enjoy the benefits of HRT on your heart, your bones, your brain and your urinary tract without having to put up with the dangerous side effects of PPIs - on your heart, your bones, your brain and your kidneys!  Isn’t that interesting - The negative side effects on your organs mirror the benefits of HRT on the same organs! The good news is that the deeper causes of heartburn and reflux can be addressed without losing the benefits of hormones. Studies show women in perimenopause/menopause are several times more likely to experience reflux than younger women, with some surveys finding ~40–47% reporting symptoms in midlife. Large pooled studies have shown that women using systemic hormone therapy have higher odds of reporting GERD symptoms compared with women who haven’t used it — roughly 29–66% higher in various analyses. Is this associative or causal? Perimenopausal/menopausal women report more reflux even without hormone therapy, likely due to shifting estrogen and progesterone levels, slower gut motility, weight distribution changes, and other age-related factors. Most women do experience an increase in heartburn with age, especially around perimenopause and menopause. Some women notice a change in reflux when starting hormone therapy — and studies show a higher prevalence of reported reflux in hormone users — but this doesn’t prove HRT is a direct cause in every case. The mechanisms likely involve both hormone-related smooth muscle effects AND other underlying factors (pressure, motility, hernia mechanics, weight patterns), which is why the “full story” is more complex than just hormones alone. Progesterone does relax smooth muscle affecting the lower esophageal sphincter. So yes — in some women, HRT can lead to reflux. But here’s what matters. If your diaphragm is strong, abdominal pressure normal, stomach empties properly, and thee's no hiatal hernia — the small hormonal shift usually won’t cause symptoms. Reflux isn’t caused by acid alone. And it’s rarely caused by hormones alone. Solutions If a woman needs HRT for: hot flashes, bone protection, brain or mood support, genitourinary (bladder) syndrome  The answer is not: “Stop HRT and start a PPI.”,  but evaluate: ✔ Diaphragm function ✔ Constipation ✔ Abdominal pressure causes ✔ Weight distribution  ✔ Stomach motility In other words: fix the gut. References: 1. Jacobson BC et al. (2008) Postmenopausal hormone use and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux, Archives of Internal Medicine 2. Aldhaleei WA et al. (2023) The association between menopausal hormone therapy and gastroesophageal reflux disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis, Menopause 3. Close H et al. (2012) Hormone replacement therapy is associated with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease: a retrospective cohort study, BMC Gastroenterology 4. Saleh S et al. (2022/2023) Effect of Hormonal Replacement Therapy on Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and its Complications in Post-Menopausal Women, Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology #acidreflux #guthealth #rootcausemedicine #menopause  Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for profes

    13 min

  2. MAR 27

    3 Ways to Fix Burning Stomach

    3 Root Causes of Burning Stomach 1. Pressure 2. Poor digestion and resulting fermentation 3. Irritated stomach lining In this episode, Dr Vikki Petersen explains 3 reasons why an acidic stomach develops and what you can do to dramatically improve your symptoms. Most “acid stomach” symptoms are driven by pressure pushing contents upward, not acid being overproduced.  Key drivers: Increased intra-abdominal pressure Hiatal hernia Constipation Central weight gain Tight diaphragm / poor breathing mechanics When pressure rises, acid moves where it shouldn’t. If pressure inside the abdomen rises, acid gets pushed upward. That’s when it burns. What actually lowers pressure: Stop overeating (smaller meals) Eat slower Fix constipation Reduce bloating triggers Practice diaphragmatic breathing Don’t lie down within 2–3 hours of eating This alone has the potential to resolve symptoms for many people. Improve Digestion so Food doesn’t Sit and Ferment If food sits too long: It ferments Gas forms Pressure rises Reflux follows What can fix this: Chew thoroughly Avoid constant snacking Space meals 4–5 hours apart Support motility (walking after meals) Identify food triggers Acid suppression does not fix fermentation. Calm the Irritated Lining Sometimes the acid is normal — the lining is just sensitive. Common irritants: NSAIDs Alcohol Ultra-processed foods High sugar diet Chronic stress H. pylori infection (bacteria in stomach) What helps: Remove irritants Short-term targeted support (not lifelong suppression)  - e.g. antacid Improve sleep Lower stress Restore gut barrier function If you feel like your stomach has too much acid, here’s the truth — most of the time it’s not too much acid. It’s pressure. It’s poor digestion creating gas. Or it’s an irritated lining that’s become sensitive. Lower the pressure. Improve digestion. Calm the inflammation. That fixes the cause — not just the symptom. References: 1. Pandolfino et al., 2006 "High-resolution manometry of the EGJ: evidence of a pressure gradient driving reflux" Gastroenterology 2. Kahrilas et al., 2012 "The acid pocket and its role in GERD", American Journal of Gastroenterology 3. Penagini et al., 1998 "Mechanisms of postprandial gastroesophageal reflux in humans", Gastroenterology 4. Wu et al., 2004 "Overeating and GERD symptoms" American Journal of Gastroenterology 5. Parkman et al., 2004 "Delayed gastric emptying in GERD" American Journal of Gastroenterology 6. Piche et al., 2003 "Colonic fermentation influences LES relaxation" Gastroenterology 7. Freedberg et al., 2015 "The impact of PPIs on the gut microbiome", Gastroenterology 8. Imhann et al., 2016 "Proton pump inhibitors affect gut microbiome", Gut 9. Vanuytsel et al., 2014 "Psychological stress and intestinal barrier function" Gut 10. Fass et al., 2001 "Functional heartburn: acid is not always the cause" Gastroenterology #acidreflux #hiatalhernia #rootcausemedicine  Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary. Many viewers ask what to do next if symptoms persist.  Our licensed medical team

    22 min

  3. MAR 25

    The Hidden Cause of Constipation

    Constipation isn’t just about what you eat — it’s about whether your gut is getting the right signals to move.  In the episode, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why you may be suffering from constipation. 3 secrets: 1.Your Gut Runs on Nerve Signals Your gut runs on nerve signals -which are highly energy dependent. Vitamin B1 is required to convert glucose → energy With lower B1 → weaker nerve signaling - the gut isn’t getting strong, signals and the result is constipation. Research- thiamine deficiency rates from about 20% to 90% depending on the population studied. Obese people - deficiency of 15% to 29%. Diabetics - B1 75% lower in the blood. High carbohydrate diet puts you at risk because glucose in blood requires more B1 to break down the carbs thereby creating a higher demand  2.Your Gut Muscles Have to Respond The nerves send the signal, but the muscles have to respond to the signal. muscles need to contract and relax in sequence Research -magnesium intake is commonly inadequate. ~60% of American adults do not meet the recommended magnesium intake. ~45% of Americans may be magnesium deficient. When magnesium levels low, those signals weaken and slow the gut. Constipation, reflux, and bloating often occur together -they are all motility disorders.  stomach emptying slows → reflux small intestine motility slows → fermentation of bacteria leading to infection, bloat, gas, SIBO, leaky gut, increased IAP. Leads to hiatal hernia. colon motility slows → constipation It’s all one issue: with constipation you cannot have a healthy gut. Why? Refined grains remove minerals- whole grains contain magnesium, refined don't. Ultra-processed food diets Certain medications - like PPIs, antibiotics, diuretics  Magnesium dense foods: pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, flax seeds, sunflower seeds (also B1), almonds, legumes (also have B1), dark leafy greens. Dark Chocolate and avocado. 3. How Modern Diets Slow Your Gut - SAD (standard American diet) works against motility Ultra-processed foods, sugar can: disrupt the gut microbiome - more bad bacteria reduce beneficial bacterial byproducts that stimulate motility increase inflammation - fatigue, feeling “off” and mood changes Causes B1 and magnesium depletion. People are missing good compounds: Polyphenols -plants, berries, tea, and herbs. Support beneficial bacteria and motility. Fiber -start low and slow: Insoluble fiber feeds microbes that produce short-chain fatty acids. with bad bacteria the fiber can eat that too - so you feel worse. SCFA - produced when good gut bacteria ferment fiber. They cause production of serotonin and brain makes “happy” mood hormones.  The Simple Foundations Still Matter Basics still support motility: Hydration  Movement -activity stimulates intestinal contractions Polyphenol-rich foods  Reducing ultra-processed foods and - deplete B1 B1 is high in pork, beef and fish TIPS If hard stool → magnesium citrate or oxide - 200 - 400 mg/day If stress,  or motility → magnesium glycinate ~300 -400 mg/day. References: 1. Camilleri M. Gastrointestinal complications of diabetes. 2007, New England Journal of Medicine 2. Bharucha AE, et al. American Gastroenterological Association technical review on constipation. 2013, Gastroenterology 3. Mori H et al. Magnesium oxide in constipation. 2021, Nutrients 4. DiNicolantonio JJ et al. Subclinical magnesium deficiency: a principal driver of cardiovascular disease and a public health crisis. 2018, Open Heart 5. Lonsdale D. A review of the biochemistry, metabolism and clinical benefits of thiamin(e). 2006, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 6. Makki K et al. The impact of dietary fiber on gut microbiota i

    18 min

  4. FEB 23

    Why Reflux Keeps Coming Back

    Reflux that keeps coming back is usually not just an acid problem — it’s a pressure and mechanics problem. In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why getting "relief" from an antacid is not addressing the core of the problem. In fact, it's perpetuating it. Acid blockers (PPIs and H2 blockers) reduce stomach acid and can decrease the burning sensation. That can be appropriate short-term, especially with esophagitis. But these medications do not address the root cause of reflux - it isn't too much acid.  It's actually a pressure problem. When pressure within your abdomen increases, stomach emptying slows, or a hiatal hernia develops, stomach contents can move upward regardless of acid level. Lowering acid may reduce symptoms, but it does not correct the mechanical dysfunction being caused by the pressure. Why stomach acid matters. Why do you need acid in your stomach? • Protein digestion begins in the stomach • It's a detergent/disinfectant that kills bad organisms. • Absorption of minerals only occurs due to the presence of acid: e.g. calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc • Release and absorption of vitamin B12 and folate Potential risks associated with long-term acid suppression Long-term PPI use has been associated in the literature with: • Increased risk of nutrient deficiencies (B12, magnesium, iron) • Higher rates of C. difficile infection - a bacterial infection that can be life-threatening • Altered gut microbiome - more bad bacteria present in the gut than good bacteria leading to inflammation, mood disorders, and more. • Increased fracture risk - osteoporosis due to lack of calcium absorption • Kidney injury (acute and chronic) • Increased risk of respiratory infections, e.g. pneumonia These associations do not mean every patient will experience harm, but they highlight that acid suppression can have negative health impacts across many organs and systems. Addressing the root contributors Long-term improvement often requires evaluating: • Intra-abdominal pressure (belly fat, chronic straining due to constipation) • Diaphragm function and breathing mechanics • Hiatal hernia alignment • Delayed stomach emptying • Dysbiosis or SIBO • Food triggers and inflammatory load The goal should not simply be eliminating the burn. The goal is restoring function and integrity. References 1. Lam JR, et al. Proton pump inhibitor and histamine-2 receptor antagonist use and vitamin B12 deficiency. JAMA. 2013 2.Hess MW, et al. Systematic review: hypomagnesaemia induced by PPIs. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2012.  3. Yang YX, et al. Long-term PPI therapy and risk of hip fracture. JAMA. 2006.  4. Xie Y, et al. Long-term kidney outcomes among PPI users without intervening acute kidney injury. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2017 5. Janarthanan S, et al. Clostridium difficile–associated diarrhea and PPI therapy: meta-analysis. Am J Gastroenterol. 2012 6. Kahrilas PJ, et al. Approaches to the diagnosis and grading of hiatal hernia. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2008. #acidreflux #hiatalhernia #rootcausemedicine  Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. The views expressed are based on my clinical experience and current scientific understanding as of the date of publication. Individual results may vary. Many viewers ask what to do next if symptoms persist.  Our licensed medical team at Root Cause Medical

    19 min

  5. FEB 17

    Antibiotics, Anxiety and Your Gut

    Did you know a single course of antibiotics is linked to a 25% higher risk of anxiety and depression? Because antibiotics don’t just target the infection, the bad bacteria — they can disrupt the good gut bacteria that help regulate your brain. Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice. In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why there's an increased risk of anxiety and depression after taking antibiotics. Antibiotics kill both good and bad bacteria alike. Fewer beneficial bacteria means less control over inflammation. Inflammation can disrupt serotonin, dopamine, and the circuits that determine whether your brain feels calm or anxious. If you already deal with reflux, bloating, or constipation — common in hiatal hernia — the impact can be bigger and recovery slower. The increased risk shows up mainly in the months after treatment and can persist for up to about a year or longer. Many species rebound in weeks to a few months. Some do not fully return, especially after repeated exposure of antibiotics. Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are produced as a result of an abundance and variety of good bacteria. They strengthen the gut barrier - preventing leaky gut. With less leak, fewer inflammatory signals reach circulation resulting in less stimulation of brain immune cells. Too much activation of brain immune cells is associated with anxiety, depression, cognitive changes, and neurodegeneration. How does Hiatal Hernia fit in? Many people with hiatal hernia already have motility issues and microbial imbalance. That environment makes infections more likely. More infections often mean more antibiotics. And each round can deepen the imbalance. Hiatal hernia commonly overlaps with: impaired gastric emptying altered pressure gradients reflux of stomach and small intestinal contents changes in motility frequent acid suppression. All of those influence which organisms survive and where they grow. When movement and clearance are off, microbes accumulate in places they shouldn’t. TIPS Fermented foods - think of them as reseeding the garden after the antibiotic has wiped out the pretty flowers, not just the bad weeds. Variety is key with fiber - gradual increase. Insoluble fiber - feeds the good bacteria and inc SCFA production. E.g. nuts, seeds, legumes, dark green leafies, psyllium, chia, flax, raspberries. Sleep - repair time Movement - Regular moderate activity is linked with: greater diversity, better SCFA production, improved motility. Hydration supports stool transit, motility and mucosal health Stress regulation: A stressed brain sends stressed signals to the gut. Probiotics: They can help in certain situations, but they are not magic. After antibiotics, recovery isn’t about replacing one bug. It’s about rebuilding an environment where healthy microbes can grow again References: 1. Lurie I, et al. Antibiotic exposure and the risk for depression, anxiety, or psychosis. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 2015. 2. Palleja A, et al. Recovery of gut microbiota of healthy adults following antibiotic exposure. Nature Microbiology, 2018. 3. Koh A, et al. From dietary fiber to host physiology: short-chain fatty acids as key bacterial metabolites. Cell, 2016. 4. Erny D, et al. Host microbiota constantly control maturation and function of microglia in the CNS. Nature Neuroscience, 2015. 5. Quigley EMM. Microbiota–gut–brain axis and neurogastroenterology. Gastroenterology, 2017. 6. Imhann F, et al. Proton pump inhibitors affect the gut microbiome. Gut, 2016. 7. Miller AH & Raison CL. The role of inflammation in depression. Nature Reviews Immunology, 2016. #guthealth #anxiety #hiatalhernia #rootcausemedicine  Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is inten

    19 min

  6. FEB 10

    The Reflux Medication Trap

    Do you take antacids like PPIs? The odds are it’s not right for you. Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice. In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why antacids such as PPIs may be causing your symptoms to worsen and perpetuate rather than being resolved. A global systematic review found that about 60% of PPI prescriptions were inappropriate or lacking a valid indication in clinical practice.  If you’re thinking - No - I really do have acid reflux, hang in there with me for a few minutes. Fact: It’s one of the most prescribed drugs worldwide  Fact: It has many dangerous side effects  Like what: Cause infections, worsen gut health (perpetuates the problem), heart disease, bone loss and dementia to name a few Why would your doctor ignore those risks? Drs do want to help - they want their patients to “feel” better.  In conventional medicine it’s all about controlling symptoms which is much easier than correcting why they started. What’s easier? Swallowing a pill or doing lifestyle and diet changes? The answer is obvious - but it the EASY answer the better one or the safe one? For patients it seems simple: I have “burn”, the drug stops it. That’s all they want to know. It’s easier to continue a prescription then admit the treatment failed - the reflux came back when the medication is stopped. It’s unfair that they’re not told what’s going to happen long term:  Nut’l deficiencies  Infections  Worsening gut health that will perpetuate the need for antacids and then more drugs - e.g. heart meds, anxiety meds, breathing meds, pain meds  Weak bones  Risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia Therapeutic inertia - It means treatment continues because it is easier and safer than changing direction, even if it’s not solving the underlying issue. This supports the point that long-term continuation often happens by default or habit, without re-checking whether it’s still truly indicated. Almost every reflux patient I meet was told they might need this medication forever.  -The real causes: impaired gastric emptying intra-abdominal pressure dysbiosis food triggers vagal or diaphragmatic dysfunction constipation obesity Note about rebound acid secretion  -Tips  No gluten, sugar or seed oils for 3 weeks Practice diaphragmatic breathing 3x/day - research shos 2 out of 3 decreased need and some stopped No tight clothes Don’t overeat - chew well Don’t eat and lie down Don’t eat late References 1. Dutta AK, Sharma V, Jain A, et al. (2024). Inappropriate use of proton pump inhibitors in clinical practice globally: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Gut. 2. Lüthold RV, et al. (2023). Inappropriate proton-pump inhibitor prescribing in primary care (study reporting high rates of potentially inappropriate long-term PPI use, including “no indication” and “too high dose”). Swiss Medical Weekly. 3. Lazarus B, et al. (2016). Proton Pump Inhibitor Use and Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease. JAMA Internal Medicine. 4. Finke M, et al. (2025). Proton pump inhibitors and the risk of Clostridioides difficile infection: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis. Journal of Infection 5. Liu J, et al. (2019). Proton pump inhibitors therapy and risk of bone diseases: An update meta-analysis. Life Sciences. 6. Choudhury A, et al. (2023). Vitamin B12 deficiency and use of proton pump inhibitors: a systematic review. Expert Review of Clinical Pharmacology. #acidreflux #guthealth #hiatalhernia #rootcausemedicine  ➡ Learn more or book a consultation: https://rootcausemedicalclinics.com/hiatal-hernia-natural-treatment/ 📞 Call us directly: (727) 335-0400

    19 min

  7. JAN 28

    3 Reasons Hiatal Hernia Persists

    Have you rushed to the ER convinced you were having a heart attack?  You had heart palpitations, shortness of breath and anxiety out the roof? You also suffer with acid reflux, bloat, gas, and/or constipation. Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice. Every test comes back normal, but your heart still races, the shortness of breath impacts your day to day life and your gut is a mess. Your cardiologist assures you there's nothing wrong, yet you feel "off" and keep suffering. In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains what the 3 missing "pieces" of Hiatal Hernia Syndrome are and why they need to be evaluated in order to achieve successful relief. We utilize a patient-tailored approach - Personalized medicine, because there isn't a "one size fits all" solution. Diet, posture, breathing - why “one size doesn’t fit all” Symptoms influenced by: diet, digestion efficiency, motility within the gut, microbiome health, diaphragmatic breathing, and vagal nerve tone 1. DIET  Recent work highlights that diet composition—not just acid suppression—matters for reflux and hiatal hernia symptom burden. Interventions focusing on reduced overall sugar intake, increased fiber, and mindful eating patterns SMOKING & WEIGHT  Risk factor data indicate abdominal pressure, physical workload, smoking, and central adiposity are risk factors. 2. MOTILITY & MICROBIOME  Current GERD/hiatal hernia literature recognizes the influence of gut motility and possibly microbiome interactions on reflux patterns. PPIs, given for reflux, can make it worse - can’t be the only treatment. You can’t feel the reflux but it’s still there.  It doesn’t correct motility or pressure issues 3. STRESS  Stress reduction and vagal nerve influence TIPS Eat smaller meals Stop eating 3–4 hours before bed Avoid tight clothing Chew thoroughly Avoid large mixed meals late at night Pay attention to early fullness, bloating, or nausea Walk after meals Stay upright for at least 20–30 minutes after eating. Belly breathing - before meals and practiced during the day Diaphragm part of anti-reflux barrier so needs to be exercised Address constipation and gas - increases pressure References: Martinucci I et al., “Esophageal motility abnormalities in gastroesophageal reflux disease,” 2014, World Journal of Gastroenterology Voulgaris T et al., “Is there a direct relationship between hiatal hernia size and reflux events,” 2023, Annals of Gastroenterology Bucan JI et al., “Updates in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Management,” 2025, Medicines (MDPI) Lin S et al., “Esophageal Motor Dysfunctions in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease,” 2019, Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility Freedberg DE et al., “The impact of proton pump inhibitors on the human gastrointestinal microbiome,” 2014, Gut Tian L et al., “Proton pump inhibitors may enhance the risk of digestive complications,” 2023, Frontiers in Pharmacology Remes-Troche JM, “PPIs Have It: Does Tegoprazan Affect Gastric Emptying and Produce Dyspeptic Symptoms?,” 2025, Digestive Diseases and Sciences Andrews WG et al., “The relationship of hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux,” 2021, Annals of the American Thoracic Society #hiatalhernia #acidreflux #guthealth #rootcausemedicine  Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, medical condition, or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this video. The view

    13 min

  8. JAN 26

    Why Fasting Backfires for Women

    What health problems are you trying to solve? Fatigue? Weight gain? Poor sleep? Mood swings? Brain fog? Educational content reviewed by licensed APRN medical staff. Not personal medical advice. In the video, Dr Vikki Petersen explains why fasting results are different between men and women and what is the optimal approach for women. Time restricted eating or fasting is a physiological stressor - not a bad one, but still a stressor and women react differently to it than men.  Women are not “small men” and our metabolism and hormones are different- therefore the “dose” of fasting matters. A fasting window of 12 to 14 hours allows for adequate protein consumption, better quality sleep, and lowers stress load. Long fasting windows make it harder to hit protein targets - this matters for satiety (stops cravings) and lean muscle mass retention. Protein maintains:  Muscle and bone  Hormones and enzymes  Neurotransmitters - brain chemicals  Immune system strength If protein intake drops the body breaks down muscle. Lower muscle = more fat, and slower metabolism. Men exhibit more predictable improvements like weight loss and insulin sensitivity while women, who mobilize fuel differently, commonly show weight gain, loss of muscle, insulin resistance, adverse hormone and stress responses. Initially you may not notice negative effects - your fatty acids are elevated meaning you're breaking down stored fat - you lose weight, feel more energy and that convinces you to continue longer fasts. It’s what happens long-term that is concerning - long-term elevation of fatty acids leads to:  Reduced glucose uptake into muscle and liver, leading to  Insulin resistance - type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver,  Greater difficulty losing fat  Increased visceral fat/belly weight  Muscle breakdown so you lose lean muscle  Sleep disruption  Brain effects:     Fatigue   Lowered stress tolerance   Brain fog  Particularly important if you are in the following categories: Fertile Irregular or missed periods PMS or heavy periods Feel “wired” but tired High training volume Trouble sleeping Menopause/Perimenopause Trouble maintaining muscle Fat gain despite eating less Poor sleep Brain fog or stress Cold intolerance of thyroid symptoms Fatigue and need caffeine Tips Fast while you’re sleeping… and a bit more before and after = 12 to 14 hours. Prioritize protein - aim for 1 gram of protein per lean pound of body weight.  Book end protein at the beginning and end of the day with a lighter dose mid-day. Aim for 25 grams of fiber daily from whole food - fruit, veggie, nuts, seeds, beans. Healthy fats come along with much of the foods you’re eating References: Soeters MR et al. Gender-related differences in the metabolic response to fasting 2007 — Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism Bene-Alhasan Y et al. Determinants of fasting non-esterified fatty acids 2023 — Journal of Clinical & Translational Endocrinology Takeuchi M et al. Higher fasting and postprandial free fatty acid levels are associated with muscle insulin resistance in young women 2018 — Journal of Clinical Medicine Research Pankow JS et al. Fasting plasma free fatty acids and the risk of type 2 diabetes 2004 — Diabetes Care Abraham SB et al. Cortisol, obesity and the metabolic syndrome 2013 — Endocrine Reviews Kim BH et al. Effects of intermittent fasting on circulating hormone levels and circadian rhythms 2021 — Endocrinology and Metabolism Uhart M et al. Gender differences in hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis reactivity 2006 — Psychoneuroendocrinology #fasting #weightloss #musclelossprevention #rootcausemedicine  Disclaimer: The information provide

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"What's the Root Cause?" is brought to you by Root Cause Medical Clinic, featuring Dr. Vikki Petersen—renowned doctor, functional medicine expert, author of "Hiatal Hernia Syndrome" and host of a highly popular YouTube channel. Dr. Vikki Petersen and her team of clinicians provide cutting-edge solutions in gut health, hiatal hernia syndrome, nutrition, food, hormones, genetics, lifestyle, and more. You don’t have to accept feeling unwell or struggling with chronic health issues. Your body has the power to heal, and with the right approach, reversing many health conditions is possible. We're here to help you do just that. Have questions about your health? Contact us today at 727-335-0400 or visit RootCauseMedicalClinics.com.

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