The Clinician's Corner

Margaret Floyd Barry

The Clinician's Corner podcast is the go-to resource for functional health practitioners looking to deepen their clinical skills and expertise and help their clients achieve exceptional results. Featuring interviews with some of the world's top experts in the fields of functional health and nutrition, host Margaret Floyd Barry uncovers the clinical perspectives for reversing chronic disease that every practitioner needs to know about. Deep dives into the latest research findings, case studies, and practical application on topics like the ketogenic diet, the gut-brain connection, and the impact of environmental toxins deliver actionable, evidence-based strategies you can implement in your practice immediately. Join Margaret and guests each week to learn how to get better clinical results and help change the way health is delivered.

  1. #84: Hormone Therapy Demystified: Rachel Frankenthal's Evidence-Based Approach for Women and Cancer Survivors

    1D AGO

    #84: Hormone Therapy Demystified: Rachel Frankenthal's Evidence-Based Approach for Women and Cancer Survivors

    In this episode of the IRH Clinician's Corner, guest host (and IRH lead practitioner) Sara Fields sits down with Rachel Frankenthal to do a deep dive into the evolving landscape of menopause and cancer survivorship care, unpacking the profound impact of the FDA's recent removal of the black box warning on hormone replacement therapy. Rachel shares her personal journey from the world of dance to leading-edge women's health, discusses the myths and realities around hormone therapy, and offers actionable strategies for both clinicians and women facing these issues.   In this interview, we discuss:   The historical context of hormone therapy Ongoing misconceptions and fear surrounding hormone therapy Women's Health Initiative (WHI) data and what it shows System-wide educational deficits and resultant misinformation Diet and lifestyle interventions for menopausal women and cancer survivors Early recognition and frequently ordered labs/monitoring The Clinician's Corner is brought to you by the Institute of Restorative Health. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/instituteofrestorativehealth/   Connect with Rachel Frankenthal Website:  https://www.uclahealth.org/providers/rachel-frankenthal IG: https://www.instagram.com/rachelfrankenthal/?hl=en   Resources for women: The Menopause Society:  https://menopause.org/ The Heather Hirsch Academy: https://heatherhirschacademy.com/  ISHWISH: https://www.isswsh.org/ Jackie Piasta with Monarch Health: https://www.mymonarchhealthco.com/ Alloy and Midi Health (for telehealth options):  https://www.myalloy.com/ and https://www.joinmidi.com/ Timestamps:  00:00 Path to GYN Oncology Career 06:07 Women's Hormone Therapy Controversy 08:02 Estrogen Black Box Warning Debunked 11:49 Reframing Hormone Therapy Perspectives 15:09 Hormone Therapy Benefits and Risks 18:09 "Estrogen's Role in Breast Cancer" 21:16 BRCA, Ovarian Cancer, Hormone Risks 26:28 Advocating with Evidence and Data 29:13 Choosing Menopause-Certified Providers 31:35 Hormone Management and Heather Hirsch 35:24 Individualized Menopause Care and Education 39:44 Mediterranean Diet for Health Optimization 43:35 Prioritize Exercise for Health 46:50 Reeducating Women on Health 50:03 Ovarian Cancer: Know the Symptoms 54:01 Individualized Hormone Therapy Insights 54:51 Advances in Cancer Surveillance 58:10 "Clinician's Corner: Join & Share" Speaker bio:  Rachel Frankenthal is a board-certified and licensed Physician Associate and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner with a Masters in Public Health. She specializes in gynecologic oncology, treating women with gynecologic cancers as well as women at high risk for cancer due to genetic mutations. Rachel has a special passion for menopause and cancer survivorship care. She developed the menopause clinic for cancer survivors at UCLA and has played an integral role in developing the gyn cancer survivorship program. Rachel is a certified yoga and pilates instructor and on faculty at the Heather Hirsch Academy where she teaches a course on hormone therapy for gynecologic cancer survivors.   Keywords:  hormone therapy, menopause, Women's Health Initiative (WHI), gynecologic oncology, breast cancer, estrogen, progesterone, hormone replacement therapy, black box warning, FDA hormone guidelines, cancer survivorship, genetic mutations (BRCA), ovarian cancer, vaginal estrogen, menopause education, symptom management, cancer screening, osteoporosis, bone density, lifestyle interventions, nutrition, Mediterranean diet, exercise, strength training, protein intake, fiber intake, patient advocacy, provider directories, telehealth, lab testing Disclaimer: The views expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are those of the individual speakers and interviewees, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC does not specifically endorse or approve of any of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. The information and opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC is not liable for any damages or injuries that may result from the use of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. By viewing or listening to this information, you agree to hold the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC harmless from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with your participation. Thank you for your understanding.

    59 min
  2. #83: Margaret Floyd Barry - The Future-Proof Practitioner: How to Stay Irreplaceable in the Age of AI

    FEB 10

    #83: Margaret Floyd Barry - The Future-Proof Practitioner: How to Stay Irreplaceable in the Age of AI

    In this solocast episode of the IRH Clinician's Corner, Margaret explores the multi-faceted world of AI—an unavoidable force that's redefining healthcare and beyond. From the overwhelming headlines promising everything from job displacement to a productivity revolution, we unpack both the potential and the limitations of artificial intelligence in clinical practice. The Clinician's Corner is brought to you by the Institute of Restorative Health. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/instituteofrestorativehealth/ Keywords:  AI in healthcare, clinical skills, functional health, chronic disease reversal, data gathering, client information organization, recall bias, food logging, intake forms, pattern recognition, wearables, CGM data, sleep tracking, documentation, admin tasks, behavior change, relationship building, trust in clinical practice, nuance, clinical judgment, personal relationships, ethical responsibility, accountability, scope of practice, supplement recommendations, diet change, healing work, continuous learning, systems thinking, human connection, practical application Disclaimer: The views expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are those of the individual speakers and interviewees, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC does not specifically endorse or approve of any of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. The information and opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC is not liable for any damages or injuries that may result from the use of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. By viewing or listening to this information, you agree to hold the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC harmless from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with your participation. Thank you for your understanding.

    24 min
  3. #82: Laurie Hammer - Amino Acid Therapy for Brain Health and Emotional Resilience

    FEB 3

    #82: Laurie Hammer - Amino Acid Therapy for Brain Health and Emotional Resilience

    In this episode of the IRH Clinician's Corner, guest host (and IRH practitioner) Kristin Whitaker sits down with Laurie Hammer, a functional nutrition therapist and founder of the Calm Mom Academy, as well as the creator of Mind Thrive, a practitioner training program specializing in targeted amino acid therapy. Laurie shares her experience working with clients and practitioners to restore cognitive function, emotional stability, and resilience through targeted amino acid therapy, including how it can calm chaos, resolve cravings, and transform mood in real time.   In this interview, we discuss:   The philosophy and approach to amino acid therapy The five primary areas of amino acid deficiency and how to assess them How to apply amino acid therapy in mental health and trauma cases Laurie's practitioner training and education on amino acid therapy Practical tips for reducing stress and building resilience Supplement recommendations and access The Clinician's Corner is brought to you by the Institute of Restorative Health. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/instituteofrestorativehealth/   Connect with Laurie Hammer: Website: https://www.lauriehammer.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/takebackmybrain/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/takebackmybrain  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@takebackmybrain9073  Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/take-back-my-brain/id1684847484 spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2yYNVnRQtakHbIjTK8nQVJ Take my quick Craving Crusher quiz: https://laurie-s09arvqf.scoreapp.com/   Timestamps:  00:00 "Laurie Hammer: Brain Health Insights" 05:23 "Amino Acids for Healing First" 09:19 Amino Acids: Foundational for Healing 12:38 Healing Requires a Balanced Brain 14:17 "Amino Acids for Life's Stress" 17:50 Healing Through Emotional Growth 36:04 "Helping Neurodiverse Teen Struggles" 38:53 "Master Clinical Skills, Transform Lives" 48:31 "Nutrition Advice and Challenges" 53:26 "Mind Thrive: Brain Health Course" 58:04 "Clinician's Corner: Join & Share" Speaker bio:    Laurie Hammer, FNTP, is a Functional Nutritional Therapist and founder of Mind Thrive™, a practitioner training program focused on targeted amino acid therapy for brain health. After overcoming her own neurological and emotional health challenges, Laurie has dedicated over a decade to helping clinicians and clients restore cognitive function, emotional stability, and long-term brain resilience through nutrient-based interventions. She specializes in amino acid therapy, neuro detoxification, and gut–brain optimization to improve mood, memory, clarity, and healthy aging.  Keywords:  functional health, clinician's skills, chronic disease reversal, amino acid therapy, brain health, emotional stability, cognitive function, nutrient-based interventions, serotonin deficiency, gaba, catecholamines, neurotransmitter imbalance, gut-brain connection, neurodetoxification, adrenal fatigue, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, targeted supplementation, mood regulation, client compliance, amino acid deficiency, sleep, protein intake, stress reduction, practitioner training, root cause methodology, holistic health, supplement dosing, mental focus, microbiome optimization Disclaimer: The views expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are those of the individual speakers and interviewees, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC does not specifically endorse or approve of any of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. The information and opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC is not liable for any damages or injuries that may result from the use of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. By viewing or listening to this information, you agree to hold the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC harmless from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with your participation. Thank you for your understanding.

    59 min
  4. #81: Clinical Pearls from Dr. Chris Turnpaugh: Understanding Chronic Infections and Immune Dysregulation

    JAN 20

    #81: Clinical Pearls from Dr. Chris Turnpaugh: Understanding Chronic Infections and Immune Dysregulation

    For this week's episode of the Clinician's Corner, we've gone into the archives to pull out another clinical pearl from one of our favorite episodes – a fascinating conversation with our beloved Medical Director, Dr. Chris Turnpaugh, where we discuss chronic infections, immune dysregulation, and detox strategies. This interview first aired early last year (2025), and the full interview can be viewed here.   Clinical pearls we extracted from the original interview: Overview of chronic infections and the immune system The role of environmental toxins on the immune system/immune response Addressing toxic burden and supporting detoxification Various therapeutic interventions Lyme disease and Long Covid (and other complex client cases) Foundational immune support    The Clinician's Corner is brought to you by the Institute of Restorative Health. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/instituteofrestorativehealth/   Connect with Dr. Chris Turnpaugh: Website: TurnpaughHWC.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TurnpaughHWC/ Instagram: TurnpaughHealth    Timestamps:  00:00 TH1 vs. TH2 Immunity Explained 03:32 "Reducing Toxic Burden Strategies" 08:19 "NAC: The Ultimate Supplement" 11:09 "Master Clinical Skills, Transform Lives"   Speaker bio: Dr. Chris Turnpaugh is a practitioner and CEO at Turnpaugh Health, a Functional Medicine wellness center, which he founded in 1999. The center, one of the largest in the country, has grown to over 20 healthcare providers and a team of more than 50 in five locations.  Turnpaugh Health provides in-depth holistic care focusing on functional medicine, investigating the mechanisms of dysfunction in patients. The clinic also provides integrative family medicine, lifestyle medicine, and many complementary wellness services.  Over his twenty years in practice, Dr. Turnpaugh has joined ILADS and is known as a thought leader in Lyme disease and associated co-infections. He also traveled to Lake Como to participate on the PANDAS International board. He has a deep interest and extensive knowledge in pediatric neurological disorders and methods of supporting these children holistically. Dr. Turnpaugh has lectured on a broad variety of health topics, both nationally and internationally.  His application of functional medicine as it relates to the neuro/endocrine/immune systems is a unique clinical approach to non-pharmacological treatments. He is well respected among his peers and patients as a provider and functional medicine instructor. He has treated thousands of patients in his practice and mentored hundreds of practitioners. His true passion is teaching functional medicine to other practitioners and helping patients to optimize their health.   Keywords: functional health practitioners, clinical skills, chronic disease, restoring balance, chronic infections, immune system, TH1, TH2 dominance, autoimmunity, cancer, chemicals, pesticides, endocrine disrupting compounds, toxic burden, gut symptoms, liver, bile flow, digestion, nutrient supplementation, detoxification, sauna therapy, nasal spray, peptide therapy, liposomal glutathione, NAC, vitamin D, immune dysregulation, long Covid, post-treatment Lyme disease, food intolerances, chemical sensitivities, microbiome Disclaimer: The views expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are those of the individual speakers and interviewees, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC does not specifically endorse or approve of any of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. The information and opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC is not liable for any damages or injuries that may result from the use of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. By viewing or listening to this information, you agree to hold the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC harmless from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with your participation. Thank you for your understanding.

    13 min
  5. #80: Exploring Naturopathic Root-Cause Dermatology with Dr. Julie Greenberg

    JAN 13

    #80: Exploring Naturopathic Root-Cause Dermatology with Dr. Julie Greenberg

    In this episode of the IRH Clinician's Corner, guest host (and IRH lead practitioner) Sara Fields sits down with Dr. Julie Greenberg, a licensed naturopathic doctor and registered herbalist renowned for her root-cause approach to skin and hair disorders. Listeners will hear fresh insights on the vital connections between gut health and skin conditions, uncover the most common root causes behind eczema, acne, and hair loss – and learn why functional medicine offers hope for patients who've felt helpless in conventional care.   In this interview, we discuss:   The foundations of functional dermatology  Common skin conditions in functional practice (how to identify & treat them) Various root causes and disease patterns associated with skin conditions How to use assessment tools and lab testing to enhance results Food, nutrition, and sensitivity considerations  The role of histamines, toxins (like mold/mycotoxins), and autoimmunity in chronic derm conditions Treatment planning and patient/client management The Clinician's Corner is brought to you by the Institute of Restorative Health. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/instituteofrestorativehealth/   Connect with Dr. Julie Greenberg: Website: https://rootcausedermatology.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dermatologycenter/  Dr. Greenberg is offering $250 off her Root Cause Dermatology course. Enter code RWSlistener to sign up and learn more about this fascinating topic.   Timestamps:  00:00 "Journey to Clean Skincare" 08:33 "Eczema and Acne: Beyond Skin" 14:39 "Gut Patterns in Skin Diseases" 19:15 SIBO, Fungal Overgrowth, Gut Testing 31:22 Healing Gut to Ease Sensitivities 34:35 "Nutrition, Acne, and Underlying Triggers" 46:17 "Functional Medicine Approach to Eczema" 53:55 "Overwhelmed Immune System Analogy" 01:00:45 "Tracking Progress and Healing Time" 01:08:46 Conclusion Speaker bio:    Dr. Julie Greenberg is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor (ND) and Registered Herbalist RH(AHG) specializing in functional dermatology. She is the founder of The Center for Integrative & Naturopathic Dermatology, Inc., a holistic medical clinic dedicated to identifying and treating the root causes of skin and hair disorders. She also founded RootCauseDermatology.com, an educational platform that trains functional medicine practitioners in evidence-based approaches to dermatologic care. Dr. Greenberg holds degrees from Northwestern University (BA), Stanford University (MBA), and Bastyr University (ND). She is the co-author of The Holistic Psoriasis Management and Nutrition Guide, the first comprehensive text on natural approaches to psoriasis treatment. A respected educator and innovator, Dr. Greenberg teaches dermatology at several naturopathic medical schools and lectures internationally. She is a highly sought-after speaker at integrative and functional medicine conferences across the United States and abroad.   Keywords:  functional dermatology, eczema, acne, psoriasis, gut microbiome, leaky gut, stool testing, organic acid test (OAT), GI MAP, food sensitivities, mycotoxin testing, mold exposure, autoimmune skin conditions, histamine, mast cell activation syndrome, skin microbiome, hair loss, alopecia areata, integrative health, naturopathic medicine, chronic skin disease, thyroid health, Hashimoto's, blood sugar dysregulation, dietary fiber, plant-based nutrition, topical steroid withdrawal, allergy testing, hormone testing (Dutch Test), secretory IgA, nutrient deficiencies Disclaimer: The views expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are those of the individual speakers and interviewees, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC does not specifically endorse or approve of any of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. The information and opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC is not liable for any damages or injuries that may result from the use of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. By viewing or listening to this information, you agree to hold the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC harmless from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with your participation. Thank you for your understanding.

    1h 9m
  6. #79: Margaret Floyd Barry - Redefining Success in the New Year

    JAN 6

    #79: Margaret Floyd Barry - Redefining Success in the New Year

    In this solocast episode of the IRH Clinician's Corner, Margaret invites us to rethink what success truly means—especially for those of us constantly chasing big dreams and setting audacious goals. She also explores how happiness and fulfillment shouldn't be reserved for some far-off achievement, but can—and should—be experienced in our everyday lives. The Clinician's Corner is brought to you by the Institute of Restorative Health. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/instituteofrestorativehealth/ Keywords:  functional health practitioners, clinical skills, reversing chronic disease, actionable insights, success, goal setting, chasing big dreams, happiness, personal fulfillment, present moment, future state, ideal day, professional success, business goals, white space, incremental improvement, restorative health, Institute of Restorative Health, chronic illness, clinical training, balancing work and life, bumpers concept, raising the floor, daily routines, lab testing, custom protocols, social media detox, Boston Marathon, postponing fulfillment, client results Disclaimer: The views expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are those of the individual speakers and interviewees, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC does not specifically endorse or approve of any of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. The information and opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC is not liable for any damages or injuries that may result from the use of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. By viewing or listening to this information, you agree to hold the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC harmless from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with your participation. Thank you for your understanding.

    17 min
  7. #78: Clinical Pearls from Dr. Betty Murray - Reimagining Beta Glucuronidase: Gut Health, Hormones, and New Clinical Insights

    12/16/2025

    #78: Clinical Pearls from Dr. Betty Murray - Reimagining Beta Glucuronidase: Gut Health, Hormones, and New Clinical Insights

    For this week's episode of the Clinician's Corner, we've gone into the archives to pull out another clinical pearl from one of our favorite episodes - and today we discuss beta glucuronidase and its surprisingly wide-ranging impact on our health (from hormones to gut health and even bone health).   This interview first aired earlier this year (2025), and the full interview can be viewed here.   Clinical pearls we extracted from the original interview: Understanding beta-glucuronidase (what it is and what it does) Challenging established views on beta glucuronidase Hormone-microbiome interactions Beta glucuronidase and GI function Clinical implications for women Gut-healing supplement recommendations  The Clinician's Corner is brought to you by the Institute of Restorative Health. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/instituteofrestorativehealth/   Connect with Dr. Betty Murray: Websites: https://bettymurray.com; https://livingwelldallas.com; ​​and https://getmenrva.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drbettymurray and https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseMasteryShow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbettymurray/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drbettymurray LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bettymurray/   Timestamps:  00:00 "Microbiome Shifts with Hormones" 03:15 Microbiome, Hormones, and IBS Connections 06:26 Hormones, IBS, and Menopause Trends 10:21 "Fermented Foods and Intuition" 13:04 Clinician's Corner: Thank You   Speaker bio: Dr. Betty Murray is a women's health advocate, nutrition expert, PhD researcher, certified functional medicine practitioner, author, and speaker. Betty helps women over 40 harness their hormones to lose weight, optimize sleep, restore energy, and thrive. During her research for her Ph.D., Betty made several key discoveries that lead to hormone & metabolic imbalances that plague women over 40. Restoring balance to these key metabolic and hormone pathways is the basis of her Menopause Mastery Program.    Dr. Betty is the founder and CEO of Living Well Dallas Functional Medicine Center and Menrva, a national women's telemedicine company providing bioidentical hormone treatment, nutrition, diet, and lifestyle guidance to feel like perimenopause and menopause never happened. She is the host of the Menopause Mastery Podcast, author, and featured writer for Brainz Magazine. As a professional speaker, she has shared the stage with Lisa Nichols, Dr. Mark Hyman, JJ Virgin, Dr. Steven Gundry, Codie Sanchez, Dr. Shrini Pallay, and many others, and she is a frequently featured nutrition expert on Fox News Broadcasting, CW33, NBC, and CBS.     Keywords: functional health practitioners, beta glucuronidase, gut health, hormones, estrogen metabolism, microbiome, menopause, perimenopause, chronic disease, stool testing, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), serotonin receptors, neurotransmitters, glucuronidation, prostaglandins, GI motility, hormone cycles, case studies, evidence-based strategies, clinical pearls, hormone receptors, digestive supplements, fermented foods, polyphenols, resistant starches, gut healing protocols, 5R protocol, clinical training, restorative health, women's health Disclaimer: The views expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are those of the individual speakers and interviewees, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC does not specifically endorse or approve of any of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. The information and opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC is not liable for any damages or injuries that may result from the use of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. By viewing or listening to this information, you agree to hold the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC harmless from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with your participation. Thank you for your understanding.

    14 min
  8. #77: Star Edwards - Understanding Tiny Health: Advanced Microbiome Testing for Every Age and Stage of Life

    12/09/2025

    #77: Star Edwards - Understanding Tiny Health: Advanced Microbiome Testing for Every Age and Stage of Life

    In this episode of the IRH Clinician's Corner, IRH lead practitioner Sara Fields sits down with Star Edwards, Healthcare Practice Director at Tiny Health, for an enlightening conversation about the evolution of gut health diagnostics—especially in pediatrics, but with insights spanning all ages. From understanding key differences between pediatric and adult microbiomes to exploring innovative metrics like HMO digestion and inflammatory markers, Sara Fields and Star Edwards make this complex data approachable, actionable, and relevant.   In this interview, we discuss:   The origins of Tiny Health and what sets them apart from other microbiome testing The importance of first 1,000 days for immune and neurodevelopment Tiny Health's suite of tests Comparing whole genome sequencing to other methods of testing (like PCR) Key results categories/metrics and examples of markers unique to Tiny Health Clinical applications and insights The Clinician's Corner is brought to you by the Institute of Restorative Health. Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/instituteofrestorativehealth/   Connect with Star Edwards/Tiny Health: Website: https://www.poweredbytiny.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/star-edwards/   For practitioners looking to open an account with Tiny Health and order test kits, go to https://www.poweredbytiny.com/practitioners   Use discount code IRH2025 to receive $50 off your first Gut Health or PRO Gut Health test  For more resources, including sample reports, research, report walkthroughs, and interpretation guides: https://www.poweredbytiny.com/resources   Timestamps:  00:00 Passion for Microbiome and Nutrition 09:06 "Microbiome's Role in Early Development" 11:36 HMO Digestion and Infant Health 20:23 "Functions: The Frontier of Microbiome" 21:32 Microbiome Functions and Health Connections 30:00 Microbiome Patterns and Health Insights 34:36 Microbiome Differences Across Ages 42:08 "LPS: Gut Inflammation Explained" 47:59 "Tiny Health's Key Insights" 50:03 Microbiome Balance Through Testing 58:40 "H. Pylori Testing Advice" 01:02:02 Personalized Microbiome Testing Benefits Speaker bio:  Star is a former WIC high-risk dietitian and has helped her own clients in private practice, focused on food allergies and sensitivities, gastrointestinal conditions, athletic performance, and pediatrics. For much of her career, she has worked for food allergy and microbiome testing companies, training and mentoring health care practitioners on test interpretation and microbiome recovery protocols. As the Healthcare Practice Director of Tiny Health, she works closely with HCPs to assure Tiny Health testing is actionable and helps them solve their patient microbiome grievances.   Keywords:  functional health, microbiome testing, Tiny Health, gut microbiome, pediatrics, food allergies, eczema, atopic march, C-section birth, whole genome sequencing, stool chemistry, probiotics, dietary recommendations, immune system, chronic disease, practitioner resources, reference ranges, short chain fatty acids, HMO digesting species, LPS (lipopolysaccharide), TMA (trimethylamine), neurodevelopment, inflammation, GI health, diversity in microbiome, beneficial microbes, disruptives/pathogens, action plan, clinical insights, gut-brain connection Disclaimer: The views expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are those of the individual speakers and interviewees, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC does not specifically endorse or approve of any of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. The information and opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC is not liable for any damages or injuries that may result from the use of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. By viewing or listening to this information, you agree to hold the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC harmless from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with your participation. Thank you for your understanding.

    1h 4m
4.8
out of 5
20 Ratings

About

The Clinician's Corner podcast is the go-to resource for functional health practitioners looking to deepen their clinical skills and expertise and help their clients achieve exceptional results. Featuring interviews with some of the world's top experts in the fields of functional health and nutrition, host Margaret Floyd Barry uncovers the clinical perspectives for reversing chronic disease that every practitioner needs to know about. Deep dives into the latest research findings, case studies, and practical application on topics like the ketogenic diet, the gut-brain connection, and the impact of environmental toxins deliver actionable, evidence-based strategies you can implement in your practice immediately. Join Margaret and guests each week to learn how to get better clinical results and help change the way health is delivered.

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