This Healthy Life

Erika Schlick

Talking about all things health!

  1. 6d ago

    Episode 123 - Dr. Jill Carnahan - Buying A Home? How To Spot Hidden Mold Before You Move In

    MEET THE GUEST Dr. Jill Carnahan, Your Functional Medicine Expert®, is dually board-certified and founder of Flatiron Functional Medicine. A survivor of breast cancer, Crohn's, and toxic mold illness, she uncovers root causes through advanced testing and personalized care. Her bestselling memoir Unexpected and documentary Doctor/Patient share her journey. A sought-after speaker, she inspires audiences with science-backed insight, authenticity, and humor. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Bring dust sample kits (ERMI-style, e.g. Immunolytics) on every showing to test surfaces before making an offer.Learn visual red flags: warped floorboards, stained ceilings/corners, bathroom tile growth, and stucco type/installation quality.Keep a trusted mold inspector on call to do informal walkthroughs before an offer is made.Ask sellers pointed questions (dishwasher leaks, shower leaks, etc.); most were surprisingly honest.She toured 40+ homes; about 80% had significant mold, even in Colorado's dry climate and in expensive, newer homes.Her real question wasn't "is there mold" but "where is it, how fixable, and what will it cost."One stucco issue quoted at $250,000+ was a dealbreaker; minor sink/window-well leaks were manageable and budgeted in.She went under contract five times, backing out four times after formal inspections revealed major issues.Deal-breakers: foundational problems, roof/siding/stucco-wide water intrusion, and oddities like an indoor jacuzzi, versus minor, containable issues like a single leaky sink.Sellers sometimes pushed back hard on repair-cost requests, so having a knowledgeable realtor was essential.New homes aren't automatically safer: poor drywall/tile installation and off-gassing (formaldehyde, granite) are common, while very old homes carry decades of leak history.Her "sweet spot": homes roughly 8 to 15 years old.Crawl spaces and long-term single-owners with strong maintenance records are strong positive signals.Filing a legitimate mold claim on a past condo made it harder to get new homeowners insurance.Testing approach: dust (ERMI-style) plus air samples plus bulk/swab samples on visible growth; toilets and wax seals are common failure points worth replacing preemptively.In Colorado, buyers can exit contracts via "inspection objection" without disclosing mold specifically; she chose whether to share findings with sellers as a courtesy.Basements/window wells need proper stone (not mulch) and drainage to prevent water intrusion.Post-purchase upgrades: whole-home water filtration, Moen Flo smart shutoff with leak sensors at every fixture, and multiple air filtration units.Her advice: budget and stage fixes over time (water/roof/siding first) rather than trying to remediate everything at once. EPISODE RESOURCES  AirDoctor Hospital-grade purifier that traps mold spores, allergens & VOCs for cleaner, healthier indoor air. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/AirDoctor Immunolytics Order at-home testing for mold in your home. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Immunolytics Aquasana Whole-home water filtration that removes contaminants for cleaner, safer water straight from every tap. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquasana Branch Basics Non-toxic cleaning products, perfect for a mold-safe move-in deep clean. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BranchBasics CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.jillcarnahan.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjillcarnahan Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FlatironFunctionalMedicine YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJillCarnahan KEYWORDS mold-free home, house hunting mold, ERMI dust test, mold inspection, water damage, home buying tips, air purifier, water filtration

  2. Sep 22

    Episode 122 - Jamie Goldman - Gut Microbiome Testing: What It Can Actually Tell You

    MEET THE GUEST Jamie Goldman, MS, CN, NBC-HWC is a Health Coach at Viome and a member of the company's Precision Nutrition Science team. Jamie combines expertise in functional medicine, nutrition science, and health coaching to help people translate complex health data into practical, sustainable lifestyle changes. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Viome's at-home test kit: collect a sample, send to the lab, get a readout on gut and body-system function.Why Viome analyzes RNA, not DNA or blood biomarkers: RNA reflects active gene expression, not static genetic code.Stool RNA analysis reveals which gut microbes are present and what they're doing (e.g., methane gas production).Food recommendations target specific microbial activities: reducing trigger foods, adding foods that counter them.Why retesting every 4 to 6 months is recommended, giving enough time to see real change without overshooting.Supplements beyond food: vitamins, minerals, a 300+ ingredient plant extract library, probiotics, and prebiotic fibers.Why "gut-healthy" foods like yogurt and kombucha aren't universal (methane production, FODMAP sensitivity, sugar content).Viome users range from biohackers optimizing longevity to people with chronic, unexplained gut symptoms.The gut-brain axis: brain fog, low mood, fatigue, and poor cognitive clarity as signs of gut dysbiosis.Why generic probiotics are a gamble, versus matching strains to an individual's actual gut profile.A "healthy" microbiome means richness and diversity, like an old-growth forest versus an overgrown clear-cut.How antibiotics wipe out microbial diversity, and how to protect gut health during and after a course.Everyday gut disruptors: alcohol, sedentary behavior, chronic stress, and environmental toxins.Allergies (immune-driven, usually permanent), sensitivities (often from leaky gut, can resolve), and intolerances (genetic) differ.Emerging research: the estrobolome and estrogen metabolism, and the microbiome's link to bone density.Debunking carnivore: may ease GI symptoms short term but removing fiber isn't sustainable long term.Debunking juice cleanses: they strip fiber and effectively starve gut microbes.Best fiber sources: nuts, seeds, legumes, mushrooms, oats, hardier vegetables, and fruit.Prebiotic fiber types (FOS, PHGG) and why food-based fiber should come first, not just supplements.Starting advice: read ingredient labels, cut processed additives, and diversify diet with varied produce. EPISODE RESOURCES  Viome Personalized gut health testing that analyzes your microbiome's RNA, with tailored food and supplement guidance. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/viome Bulletproof Innerfuel plant-based prebiotic fiber powder that feeds good gut bacteria. Save 20% with code TRAILTOHEALTH20. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/bulletproof Breadsrsly Naturally fermented, gluten-free sourdough breads and crackers. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH and save 15%. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/BreadSRSLY Thrive Market Shop curated low-FODMAP and specialty diet groceries, making gut-friendly eating easier to find and afford. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ThriveMarket Four Sigmatic Mushroom-powered coffees, elixirs, and supplements packed with beta-glucan fiber for gut support. 20% off with code ERIKA83918. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/foursigmatic CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: http://www.viome.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viome/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/viome KEYWORDS Gut health, microbiome, RNA testing, prebiotics, probiotics, fiber, dysbiosis

  3. Sep 15

    Episode 121 - Emily Kostelnik - The Hidden World Of Vestibular Conditions

    MEET THE GUEST Dr. Emily Kostelnik is a Clinical Health Psychologist specializing in vestibular disorders who brings both professional expertise and personal lived experience to her work. She is the founder of two organizations: Rooted Behavioral Education offers virtual behavioral health courses and coaching for those with chronic dizziness and The Vestibular Psychologist is private practice providing individual therapy and professional consultation to help clients reclaim a full and meaningful life. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Definition of the vestibular system, the inner ear's balance mechanism, working with vision and proprioception.Common inner-ear causes: BPPV (loose ear crystals) and Meniere's disease.Central/neurological causes: vestibular migraine and persistent postural perceptual dizziness (PPPD).Vestibular migraine is the most common cause of dizziness in women under 60, often without head pain.Motion sickness in childhood as a possible early marker of vestibular migraine.Why diagnosis is hard: it falls between ENT and neurology specialties.Right specialists to see: otologist/neurotologist, balance-focused neurologist, headache specialist, or vestibular physical therapist.Ruling out other causes first (anemia, cardiac issues) before a vestibular diagnosis.Symptoms often appear "suddenly" but are usually building for a long time (the "final straw" concept).Root causes: nervous system dysregulation, toxic load, gut dysfunction, liver/bile issues.Overlap with MCAS, POTS, hypermobility, and neurodivergence (ADHD/autism).Mold exposure and mycotoxins as a major contributor to inflammation and vestibular symptoms.Nutrient deficiencies commonly seen (iron, vitamin D, B vitamins) in patients.Infections like Lyme disease, H. pylori, and candida as possible triggers.Histamine and mast cell activation's role in vestibular symptoms, and use of antihistamines/low-histamine diets.Ongoing research into hypermobility, connective tissue disorders, and genetic pathway variants in vestibular migraine.Prevalence: vestibular migraine affects about 1 to 2% of the population; BPPV affects about 7%. It's more common in women, with a research funding gap.Treatment options ranging from simple (repositioning maneuvers for BPPV) to complex (preventive medications, supplements, physical therapy, psychotherapy, root-cause approaches).Advice for listeners: start with a primary care doctor or vestibular physical therapist; hope lies in CGRP medications and inflammation-focused research. EPISODE RESOURCES  Viome Uncover the gut-histamine connection behind your dizziness with an at-home test. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/viome Thorne Supplements including Quercetin Phytosome, a highly absorbable antioxidant that helps regulate histamine release. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne Pulsetto A wearable vagus nerve stimulator that calms your nervous system in minutes. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Pulsetto Earthing Grounding products that calm nervous system dysregulation and reduce inflammation. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/earthing Tick Tock Repellent Natural tick protection to help prevent Lyme disease and its related complications. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ticktocknaturals CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.rootedbehavioraleducation.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dremilykostelnik Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dremilykostelnik TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/search?q=%40dremilykostelnik&t=1785699859015 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rootedbehavioraleducation KEYWORDS vestibular disorder, vertigo causes, chronic dizziness, vestibular migraine, BPPV treatment, MCAS symptoms, histamine intolerance, mold toxicity, nervous system dysregulation, Lyme disease dizziness

  4. Sep 8

    Episode 120 - Dr. Torrie Thompson - Chronic Illness Is Never Just One Thing

    MEET THE GUEST Dr. Torrie Thompson is a functional wellness practitioner, educator, and founder of Meraki Wellness Center. Known for her root-cause approach, she helps clients uncover hidden factors that may be impacting their health, including mold exposure, environmental toxins, heavy metals, gut dysfunction, and other overlooked stressors. After overcoming her own decade-long health journey as a young adult, Dr. Torrie made it her mission to help others find answers when conventional approaches have fallen short. Through advanced testing, she has helped thousands of clients pinpoint potential root causes of their health challenges so they can finally take control of their health. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Meraki Wellness Center's specialties: mold, Lyme, parasites, autoimmune disease, environmental toxins"Test, don't guess" approach to root-cause diagnosisStandard lab panel: organic acids, mycotoxins, environmental toxins, heavy metals, stool testingTreatment sequencing: mold/mycotoxins, then gut, then heavy metals/environmental toxinsUrine vs. blood testing for mycotoxinsProvocation methods before mycotoxin testing (exercise, sauna, lymphatic massage)Old or past mold exposure as a hidden, ongoing source of illnessFood-based mycotoxins in peanuts, grains, and coffeeRising environmental toxin loads seen in testing, including in childrenWhy a "clean" current lifestyle doesn't clear past toxic exposureDetox tools: binders, sauna, lymphatic support, hydration, inflammation reductionPrevalence of parasites in chronic illness, including in the USDrainage pathways: lymphatic system, liver, kidneys, gutBowel movements and sweating as prerequisites for detoxLong COVID's overlap with tick-borne illness and reactivated viruses (EBV, CMV)Rising rates of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS)Advanced testing: organic acids (OATs), neural zoomers, stealth infection panelsGrowing mainstream awareness of mold and toxin-related illness via social mediaAdvice for starting a health journey: choosing a practitioner, using AI as a supplement, retesting to track progress EPISODE RESOURCES  Higher Dose Infrared sauna blankets, PEMF mats & red light tools to support detox, circulation, and everyday recovery. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/HigherDose AquaTru Countertop reverse osmosis water filters that remove lead, PFAS, and chlorine. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquatru AirDoctor HEPA air purifiers designed to capture mold spores, VOCs, and ultrafine particles. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/aquatru DesBio Homeopathic drainage remedies to support the liver, lymphatic system, and detox pathways. Use this link for 5% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/DesBio Quicksilver Liposomal binders and liver-support formulas built to support detox and drainage pathways. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 15% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/QuicksilverScientific ImmunoLytics At-home mold testing kits with certified lab analysis, helping identify hidden indoor mold exposure. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Immunolytics CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.drtorriethompson.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtorriethompson TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/search?q=%40drtorriethompson&t=1785697467862 KEYWORDS mold toxicity symptoms, mycotoxin testing, Lyme disease treatment, chronic illness root cause, environmental toxin detox, mast cell activation syndrome, parasite cleanse, liver detox support, lymphatic drainage, functional medicine practitioner, heavy metal detox, long COVID recovery

  5. Sep 1

    Episode 119 - Jordan Glenn - What’s Really In Your Supplements? The Truth No One Talks About

    MEET THE GUEST Jordan Glenn is the Head of Science at SuppCo, the app that personalizes and optimizes supplement routines. He holds a PhD in Exercise Physiology with a focus on nutrition, aging, and behavioral health, and has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed publications. As a scientist and researcher specializing in nutrition, supplements, and human health, Jordan is dedicated to translating complex science into practical, evidence-based guidance. His mission is to empower individuals with the clarity and confidence needed to make informed decisions about their supplement routines. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT How the supplement industry has evolved from single ingredients to niche, hyper-specific productsSuppCo's mission to help consumers navigate supplement choicesSuppCo's "Trust Score", rating brands on 30+ manufacturing attributesThird-party lab testing results on popular supplements bought onlineCreatine gummies found to be severely underdosed or missing active ingredientLack of consistent regulatory testing after a product's initial approval sampleHow Amazon's "golden sample" testing loophole allows inconsistent product qualityWhy gummies struggle with heat- and moisture-sensitive ingredients like probioticsDosing limitations of gummies (e.g., needing many gummies for a full creatine or omega-3 doseBuying from official brand storefronts vs. third-party Amazon sellersHow absorption varies by form factor (capsules, powders, liquids, soft gels)Why probiotics need enteric-coated capsules to survive stomach acidWhy fat-soluble nutrients (vitamin D, omega-3) are best delivered in fat-based formatsWhy creatine powder is considered the most stable, effective formatRisks of stacking too many supplements without understanding interactionsDownsides of proprietary multivitamin blends with hidden ingredient amountsRecommended "non-negotiable" starter stack: creatine, vitamin D3/K2, and magnesiumThe importance of knowing your specific reason for taking any supplementWhich supplements can be taken indefinitely vs. those that should be cycled (e.g., berberine)Common supplement myths debunked (creatine as a gym-only supplement, price equals quality, more supplements equals better health, electrolyte necessity)The role of the placebo effect in perceived supplement benefitsWhere supplement regulation is headed and the growing role of consumer awareness EPISODE RESOURCES  SuppCo Scan your supplements in the app, get a trust score for every product, and finally know what you are actually taking. https://supp.co/ Thorne Third-party tested creatine, magnesium and D3/K2, the trusted non-negotiable for your daily supplement stack. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne Function Health Get lab tested and know exactly which nutrients you are actually deficient in before building a supplement stack. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/FunctionHealth BiOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough covers the full spectrum most people are lacking. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/biooptimizer Promix Pure, lab tested creatine powder in the stable, effective format, easy to mix into water or coffee daily. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/PromixNutrition Rho Nutrition Clean, third party tested creatine to support energy, muscle and long term brain health. Get 15% off your first order with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/RhoNutrition CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: http://supp.co/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinsuppco TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joinsuppco YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEB9zpr6dWBOOjQ868Y6yJQ KEYWORDS supplement quality testing, best creatine powder, creatine vs gummies, magnesium glycinate benefits, vitamin D3 K2 supplement, third party tested supplements, SUPCO trust score, supplement myths, how to choose supplements, probiotic absorption, best supplement stack, clean label supplements

  6. Aug 25

    Episode 118 - Jennifer Edmonds - Why Your Nervous System Matters For Fertility

    MEET THE GUEST Jennifer is a Yoga, Pilates, Meditation & Breathwork teacher who specialises in fertility & women’s health. During a long & difficult fertility journey of her own, Jennifer eventually found the practice of Fertility Yoga. This practice was able to ease her anxiety while TTC, relieve chronic insomnia, re-balance a thyroid condition…and eventually it helped her to fall pregnant naturally. She now runs an online business, Element Pilates & Yoga, helping women all over the world to overcome fertility challenges & find their way to motherhood. She’s the host of the Your Journey to Fertility Podcast and the creator of the In Your Element Fertility Yoga Program. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT How Jennifer's fertility journey began with an early menopause misdiagnosis at 34First round of IVF and the odds of a single embryo surviving to birthCycle returning naturally after breastfeeding, and a second early menopause diagnosis reversalNew fertility diagnoses at 37, including thyroid issues and blocked fallopian tubesMale factor fertility issues and why men are often undertestedSecondary infertility and the emotional toll of trying for a second childLosing embryos during a COVID lockdown clinic closureDiscovering fertility yoga during lockdown and its early effects on sleep and thyroid healthNatural pregnancy after IVF was said to be unlikely, and the loss that followedRetraining as a yoga teacher and specializing in fertility workInsulin resistance and metabolic conditions as fertility disruptorsCortisol and stress as drivers of menstrual cycle irregularitiesHow fertility yoga differs from a regular yoga practiceMatching yoga practices to each phase of the menstrual cycleNervous system regulation and its role in fertility and conceptionWhy the nervous system can't distinguish emotional stress from physical dangerMindset strategies for navigating the highs and lows of a fertility journeySetting boundaries around triggering events like baby showersCo-regulation and building a support network during a fertility journeyFirst steps to take when starting a fertility journey, including early testing EPISODE RESOURCES  Organifi Stress and sleep support supplements to help calm your nervous system and improve rest. Receive 20% off with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Organifi Oura Ring Get a clearer picture of your sleep, stress, and cycle health, with insights made just for you on your fertility journey. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/OuraRing Thorne Prenatal vitamins to help you prepare for and support a healthy pregnancy. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Thorne Somavedic Support deeper, more restful sleep with a device designed to help calm your environment and your body. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/somavedic Primal Trust Learn to calm your nervous system with guided meditations and tools built to support you on your fertility journey. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/PrimalTrust CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.elementpilatesyoga.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen.elementpilatesyoga Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086747915761 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@elementpilatesyoga KEYWORDS fertility yoga, nervous system regulation, secondary infertility, IVF, male factor fertility, thyroid health, cortisol and stress, ovulation tracking, prenatal vitamins, sleep support, mindset coaching, embryo transfer, menstrual cycle health, co-regulation, fertility support community

  7. Aug 18

    Episode 117 - Dr. Sirisha Vadali - The Early Warning Signs Of Heart Disease You’re Missing

    MEET THE GUEST Dr. Sirisha Vadali is a board-certified cardiologist, advanced lipidologist, and leading voice in cardiometabolic health, prevention, and women’s heart health. As Program Director of HonorHealth’s Cardiometabolic Program, she specializes in helping patients reduce cardiovascular risk before life-threatening events occur through a blend of advanced medicine, metabolic health, lifestyle changes, and prevention-focused care. Known for making complex health topics approachable, Dr. Vadali is passionate about reshaping conversations around GLP-1s, women’s cardiovascular health, stress reduction, and longevity. Having treated over 100,000 patients, she believes prevention is the future of medicine and that sustainable lifestyle changes can transform long-term heart health. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT Cardiologists often niche into advanced lipidology because most doctors don't have time to check those specific labsMore patients are now seeking preventative cardiac care, not just treatment after symptoms appearHeart health screening age depends on risk profile: as early as 18 with family history, otherwise 30 to 50High cholesterol is the top modifiable risk factor for heart attack, according to the Interheart StudyThyroid issues, hormonal shifts, pregnancy, menopause, and low vitamin D can all raise cholesterolCholesterol comes from both diet and genetics, roughly 50-50 for most peopleThe brain and heart synthesize their own cholesterol independent of blood levels"Normal" cholesterol targets vary by individual risk profile rather than a fixed numberWomen are underrepresented in cardiovascular studies despite heart disease being their top killerHormonal changes can mask heart symptoms and contribute to cardiac events in womenHeart attacks can occur at any age; genetic factors like Lp(a) matter more than age aloneArterial plaque, once formed, cannot be removed, only stabilized through lifestyle and treatmentPlaque rupture, not just blockage, is a major and unpredictable cause of heart attacksRecent advances include transcatheter valve replacement, robotic bypass surgery, and leadless pacemakersVisceral fat is dangerous even in thin people and silently damages arteriesGLP-1 medications are reshaping cardiometabolic care by reducing visceral fat and inflammationAFib is common and under-diagnosed, with stroke risk as its main dangerWearables like Apple Watch are helping detect AFib earlier, with ablation as a treatment optionCoronary artery calcium scoring is described as the most powerful test for visualizing heart plaqueConsistent exercise, blood pressure screening, and managing stress are key habits seen in heart-healthy older patients EPISODE RESOURCES  Nikki Catch AFib before it catches you. Track your heart rhythm 24/7 with this wearable. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Nikki Heart and Soil Supplements Support your heart with nutrient-dense whole food supplements built for cardiovascular health. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/HeartandSoil Vital Choice Seafood Wild-caught seafood packed with omega-3s to support heart health and fight inflammation. Save 5% on your first order with code 1VCAF5. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/VitalChoiceSeafood Brightland Cold-pressed, heart-healthy olive oil to support inflammation and cardiovascular wellness, straight from the source. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/Brightland Oura Ring Track your sleep, stress, and recovery to keep your heart health and hormones in balance. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/OuraRing CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: https://www.sirishavadali.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vadalimd Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sirisha.vadali KEYWORDS heart health, cardiovascular disease, cholesterol, visceral fat, AFib, GLP-1, coronary calcium score, women's heart health, cardiometabolic health, blood pressure, plaque buildup

  8. Aug 11

    Episode 116 - Dr. Christy Sutton - The Iron Overload Problem No One Is Talking About

    MEET THE GUEST Dr. Sutton is passionate about identifying the root causes of chronic health problems and developed a deep interest in iron disorders after her husband suffered severe complications from previously undiagnosed hereditary hemochromatosis, including liver disease and a pituitary tumor. Living with Crohn's disease and iron deficiency anemia herself, she has experienced both sides of iron dysregulation firsthand. In her book and workshop, The Iron Curse, Dr. Sutton explores the full spectrum of iron imbalance, from overload to deficiency anemia, covering underlying causes, contributing factors, and evidence-based natural strategies that may help support healthier iron regulation and overall wellness. WHAT WE TALK ABOUT How undiagnosed hemochromatosis can cause liver damage and pituitary tumorsWide range of iron overload symptoms, from fatigue to joint painOrgans most affected by excess iron: liver, heart, pancreas, gonads, thyroid, brainHemochromatosis prevalence and high rate of underdiagnosisCarrier myth debunked, one gene still carries real riskFerritin and iron saturation as key diagnostic markersTarget ferritin ranges for people with a hemochromatosis geneBlood removal and donation as first-line treatmentDiet shifts that lower iron, including calcium-rich foodsSupplements that help chelate iron: curcumin, alpha lipoic acid, EGCG, silymarinQuercetin and berberine for lowering iron absorptionRealistic timelines for bringing iron levels downThree hemochromatosis genes explained, heavyweight, middleweight, lightweightHow iron levels shift with age and gender across a lifetimeRecommended testing frequency for people with a hemochromatosis geneCeliac disease connection to hemochromatosis geneticsEvolutionary reasons hemochromatosis and celiac genes persist in the population EPISODE RESOURCES  Thrive Market Gluten-free pantry staples delivered to your door, making it easier to stock a celiac-friendly kitchen. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/ThriveMarket Quicksilver Milk thistle helps your body bind and clear excess iron while supporting liver health. Save 15% with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/QuicksilverScientific Caraway Non-toxic cookware and cutting boards help prevent cross-contamination in a celiac-safe kitchen. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH10. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/CarawayCookware BiOptimizers Berberine supplements help lower iron absorption to support healthy iron levels. Save 10% with code TRAILTOHEALTH. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/biooptimizer Primal Kitchen Gluten-free snacks and liver support supplements, all in one place. Use code TRAILTOHEALTH for 10% off. https://shop.thetrailtohealth.com/PrimalKitchen CONNECT WITH THE GUEST Website: http://drchristysutton.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristysutton Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drchristysutton YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drchristysutton KEYWORDS hereditary hemochromatosis, iron overload, iron deficiency anemia, ferritin levels, iron saturation test, celiac disease, gluten-free diet, liver support, milk thistle, berberine, curcumin, alpha lipoic acid, genetic testing, carrier myth, blood donation, chelation supplements, autoimmune disease, iron chelation

Ratings & Reviews

4.5
out of 5
8 Ratings

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Talking about all things health!

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