Integrative Medicine Matters

Integrative Medicine Matters
  • 0.0 (0)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Integrative Medicine Matters is a show that explores the science & practice of whole-person health. Join Dr Elizabeth Thompson, founder of the National Centre for Integrative Medicine (NCIM), as she interviews leading experts in lifestyle, functional & integrative medicine. She will discuss topics like nutrition, herbal medicine, fasting, movement, mindfulness & much more. NCIM is transforming healthcare through Integrative Medicine education for healthcare providers, clinical appointments for patients & a membership to learn & connect with like-minded professionals. Visit www.ncim.org.uk

  1. APR 16

    Ginkgo for Your Brain, Ginger for Inflammation: The Science of Herbal Medicine Explained

    Pioneering herbalist Simon Mills joins Dr Elizabeth Thompson for a fascinating exploration of why Integrative Medicine remains essential despite persistent barriers in mainstream healthcare. With over 40 years of experience, Simon traces the evolution from "alternative" to "complementary" to "integrative" medicine, revealing how he co-founded the Research Council for Complementary Medicine. The conversation delves into the science behind key botanical medicines, from ginkgo's remarkable effects on circulation and cognition to the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger and turmeric, while challenging common misconceptions about herbal medicine being "slow" to work. Simon emphasises the immediate physiological effects of plant-based remedies and introduces lesser-known therapeutic agents like resins (myrrh and frankincense) for immune support. The episode concludes with exciting emerging research on the neurovascular unit (formerly the blood-brain barrier) and how dietary plant compounds are revolutionising our understanding of brain health and neuroinflammation. In our latest episode, he shares: Why ginkgo became Germany's most prescribed drugThe ancient principle of "heat" that modern science now confirmsHow the gut-brain connection actually works (it's not what you think)Which herbs work immediately—and which require standardized extractsThe most exciting frontier in brain health research ⁠SEE FULL SHOW NOTES HERE⁠ If you’re interested in learning more about Integrative Medicine, you can: 👉 ⁠⁠⁠Sign up for our free newsletter Integrative Medicine Matters⁠⁠ 👉 ⁠⁠⁠Sign up for our NCIM Membership, just £4.99 per month⁠⁠ ⁠⁠👉 ⁠Sign up for our free Introduction to Integrative Medicine course⁠⁠⁠ 👉 ⁠⁠⁠Explore our 10 CPD Point Discovery Course in Integrative Medicine⁠⁠⁠ 👉 ⁠⁠⁠Find out more about our master’s Level 7 Diploma⁠⁠⁠, including ⁠⁠single modules⁠⁠ you can enrol in today! NCIM also offers an Integrative Medicine Clinic, where our expert team of Integrative Medicine Doctors and Integrative Clinical Team work collaboratively to support your health and wellbeing. ⁠⁠⁠Learn more and book an appointment⁠⁠⁠. We would love to get your feedback on the topics and conversations we feature. Follow and connect with us on social media – ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ –and let us know your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe and share if you enjoyed this episode! Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health or treatment plan.

    45 min

  2. APR 2

    Medicinal Mushrooms for Cancer? Evidence-Based Integrative Oncology with Dr. Santhosshi Narayanan

    Dr Elizabeth Thompson speaks with Dr Santhosshi Narayanan, integrative medicine physician at MD Anderson Cancer Centre, about evidence-based integrative oncology. Discover how medicinal mushrooms, Ayurveda, acupuncture, and mind-body practices are safely combined with conventional cancer treatment in one of the world's leading cancer centres.  In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✨ Why integrative oncology matters - treating the whole person, not just the cancer 🍄 Medicinal mushrooms explained - start with shiitake from your grocery store  🧘‍♀️ Mind-body medicine improves patient outcomes - meditation, yoga, and stress management 🏥 How MD Anderson integrates complementary therapies safely alongside chemotherapy 🌿 Ayurvedic wisdom meets modern oncology - personalised nutrition and gut health 🔬 Research-driven approach builds trust with oncology teams 💬 Why open communication about supplements is essential for patient safety About the Guest Dr Santhosshi Narayanan is a Clinical Associate Professor at the Integrative Medicine Centre at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Centre. She is double American board‑certified in Internal Medicine and Integrative Medicine and holds a master’s degree in Ayurveda. She serves as Vice President of Advancement, an executive role for the Society of Integrative Oncology (SIO), where she has also co‑chaired the Global Committee and founded the Ayurveda Special Interest Group. She previously served on the Board of the American College of Physicians (ACP). SEE FULL SHOW NOTES HERE If you’re interested in learning more about Integrative Medicine, you can: 👉 ⁠Sign up for our free newsletter Integrative Medicine Matters 👉 ⁠Sign up for our NCIM Membership, just £4.99 per month 👉 ⁠Sign up for our free Introduction to Integrative Medicine course⁠ 👉 ⁠Explore our 10 CPD Point Discovery Course in Integrative Medicine⁠ 👉 ⁠Find out more about our master’s Level 7 Diploma⁠, including single modules you can enrol in today! NCIM also offers an Integrative Medicine Clinic, where our expert team of Integrative Medicine Doctors and Integrative Clinical Team work collaboratively to support your health and wellbeing. ⁠Learn more and book an appointment⁠. We would love to get your feedback on the topics and conversations we feature. Follow and connect with us on social media – ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, and ⁠LinkedIn⁠ – and let us know your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe and share if you enjoyed this episode! Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health or treatment plan.

    49 min

  3. MAR 19

    The Healing Power of Voice: Where Art Meets Medicine with Christina Shewell

    Voice therapist Christina Shewell reveals how sound and speech heal your body. Learn why emotional expression speeds wound healing by 52%, how grief gets trapped in your voice, and simple exercises to release stress through sound. Discover the surprising science where art meets medicine.  In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why 2.14 million UK choir singers experience profound wellbeing benefitsHow sound vibrations physically affect your body at a cellular levelThe 8 aspects of voice that impact your health and communicationWhy grief and trauma can literally get trapped in your voiceThe study showing 52% faster wound healing through emotional expressionSimple voice release exercises to reduce stress and change your energyHow cultural suppression of sound limits our healing potentialAbout the Guest Christina Shewell, MA, FRCSLT ADVS, is an internationally known spoken voice teacher, speech and language therapist and communication skills coach, with long experience in both voice development and therapy. She has been senior lecturer in voice and counselling skills at University College London,voice teacher at major acting schools and continues to work in a variety of ways, including as a coach for RADA Business.  SEE FULL SHOW NOTES HERE If you’re interested in learning more about Integrative Medicine, you can: 👉 ⁠Sign up for our free newsletter Integrative Medicine Matters 👉 ⁠Sign up for our NCIM Membership, just £4.99 per month 👉 ⁠Sign up for our free Introduction to Integrative Medicine course⁠ 👉 ⁠Explore our 10 CPD Point Discovery Course in Integrative Medicine⁠ 👉 ⁠Find out more about our master’s Level 7 Diploma⁠, including single modules you can enrol in today! NCIM also offers an Integrative Medicine Clinic, where our expert team of Integrative Medicine Doctors and Integrative Clinical Team work collaboratively to support your health and wellbeing. ⁠Learn more and book an appointment⁠. We would love to get your feedback on the topics and conversations we feature. Follow and connect with us on social media – ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, and ⁠LinkedIn⁠ – and let us know your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe and share if you enjoyed this episode! Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health or treatment plan.

    44 min

  4. MAR 5

    Fasting, Longevity and Cancer Care: The Science with Professor Valter Longo

    50% OFF our online self-paced 10-hour Discovery courseFasting for Longevity, Wellness & Lifespan just enter the code PODFAST50 at checkout! In this episode, Dr Elizabeth Thompson speaks with world-leading longevity researcher Professor Valter Longo about the science of fasting and its growing role in integrative medicine, metabolic health and cancer care. Professor Longo explains the research behind the Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD), a structured approach designed to replicate the biological benefits of fasting while allowing food intake. Together, they explore how fasting may activate cellular repair processes such as autophagy, influence stem cell regeneration and support metabolic flexibility. The conversation also examines emerging evidence suggesting fasting may help reduce certain cancer treatment side effects and potentially enhance treatment response inspecific settings. Professor Longo discusses the importance of personalised approaches, the balance between nutrition and pharmaceuticals, and why the refeeding phase is critical for regeneration and repair. This episode offers a fascinating evidence-informed discussion on how lifestyle interventions may support long-term health, longevity and integrative cancer care. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Integrative Medicine and Longevity scienceThe Fasting Mimicking Diet explainedAutophagy and cellular repairStem cell regeneration and metabolic healthFasting and cancer treatment supportFasting vs pharmaceutical approaches to weight lossWhy refeeding is essential after fastingDr Valter Longo is a Professor of Gerontology and Biological Science and Director of the Longevity Institute at the School of Gerontology of the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, one of the world’s leading centres devoted to teaching and research on aging. SEE FULL SHOW NOTES HERE If you’re interested in learning more about Integrative Medicine, you can: 👉 ⁠Sign up for our free newsletter Integrative Medicine Matters 👉 ⁠Sign up for our NCIM Membership, just £4.99 per month 👉 ⁠Sign up for our free Introduction to Integrative Medicine course⁠ 👉 ⁠Explore our 10 CPD Point Discovery Course in Integrative Medicine⁠ 👉 ⁠Find out more about our master’s Level 7 Diploma⁠, including single modules you can enrol in today! NCIM also offers an Integrative Medicine Clinic, where our expert team of Integrative Medicine Doctors and Integrative Clinical Team work collaboratively to support your health and wellbeing. ⁠Learn more and book an appointment⁠. We would love to get your feedback on the topics andconversations we feature. Follow and connect with us on social media – ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, and ⁠LinkedIn⁠ – and let us know your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe and share if you enjoyed this episode! Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health or treatment plan.

    46 min

  5. FEB 19

    Listening to the Body: Personalised Nutrition, Cancer Support & Integrative Care

    Are you feeling overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice? In this episode of Integrative Medicine Matters, Dr ElizabethThompson speaks with nutritional therapist and author Kirsten Chick about why one-size-fits-all health advice often fails, particularly for those navigating cancer, chronic stress, and complex health challenges. Together, they explore how personalised nutrition and Integrative Medicine place the individual at the centre of care, combining scientific evidence, practitioner expertise, and patient experience. The conversation highlights the impact ofstress on hormonal and metabolic health, the role of adrenal function, and how functional testing and mindful lifestyle approaches can support recovery and resilience. Kirsten also shares insights from her book Nutrition Brought to Life, offering practical, accessible strategies to help people reconnect with their bodies, simplify health decisions, and create sustainable nutrition and lifestyle changes. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why generic nutrition advice often doesn’t work • The link between stress, adrenal health, and chronic illness • How personalised nutrition supports cancer recovery and long-term wellbeing • When functional testing, including cortisol testing, can be helpful • The role of mindfulness and nervous system regulation in digestion and health • Why stable blood sugar and protein intake are key foundations for resilience • How to simplify supplements and avoid health advice overload • The future of integrative medicine and emerging health technologies About the Guest Kirsten Chick is a nutritional therapist specialising in personalised nutrition and integrative cancer support. She is the author of Nutrition Brought to Life, a practical guide to understanding nutrition in a holistic and accessible way. SEE FULL SHOW NOTES HERE If you’re interested in learning more about Integrative Medicine, you can: 👉 ⁠Sign up for our free newsletter Integrative Medicine Matters 👉 ⁠Sign up for our NCIM Membership, just £4.99 per month 👉 ⁠Sign up for our free Introduction to Integrative Medicine course⁠ 👉 ⁠Explore our 10 CPD Point Discovery Course in Integrative Medicine⁠ 👉 ⁠Find out more about our master’s Level 7 Diploma⁠, including single modules you can enrol in today! NCIM also offers an Integrative Medicine Clinic, where our expert team of Integrative Medicine Doctors and Integrative Clinical Team work collaboratively to support your health and wellbeing. ⁠Learn more and book an appointment⁠. We would love to get your feedback on the topics andconversations we feature. Follow and connect with us on social media – ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, and ⁠LinkedIn⁠ – and let us know your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe and share if you enjoyed this episode! Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health or treatment plan.

    46 min

  6. FEB 5

    Healing, Not Just Treating: An Integrative Medicine Approach

    In this conversation, Dr. Victoria Maizes shares her insights from nearly 40 years of experience as a physician, emphasising the importance of understanding personal health through symptoms. She discusses the journey towards holistic healing and the empowerment of patients through knowledge, aiming to provide resources that help individuals navigate their health journeys effectively. Key Topics Discussed: Your symptoms may show you the direction to take.Understanding health is a personal journey.Holistic healing is about being healthy and whole.Patients need to be empowered with knowledge.It's different to be healthy and whole.Your health journey is unique to you.Listening to your body is crucial.Knowledge is power in health.Healing is a journey, not a destination.Find our more about Dr Victoria Maizes on our show notes HERE If you’re interested in learning more about Integrative Medicine, you can: 👉 ⁠Sign up for our free newsletter Integrative Medicine Matters 👉 ⁠Sign up for our NCIM Membership, just £4.99 per month 👉 ⁠Sign up for our free Introduction to Integrative Medicine course⁠ 👉 ⁠Explore our 10 CPD Point Discovery Course in Integrative Medicine⁠ 👉 ⁠Find out more about our master’s Level 7 Diploma⁠, including single modules you can enrol in today! NCIM also offers an Integrative Medicine Clinic, where our expert team of Integrative Medicine Doctors and Integrative Clinical Team work collaboratively to support your health and wellbeing. ⁠Learn more and book an appointment⁠. We would love to get your feedback on the topics and conversations we feature. Follow and connect with us on social media – ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, and ⁠LinkedIn⁠ – and let us know your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe and share if you enjoyed this episode!   Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health or treatment plan.

    47 min

  7. 11/27/2025

    Nature as Medicine: How Green Social Prescribing is Transforming Primary Care with Dr Marion Steiner

    Join Dr Elizabeth Thompson as she speaks with Bristol GP Dr Marion Steiner about the powerful intersection of nature connection and healthcare. In this inspiring conversation, Marion shares her journey from recognising the limitations of traditional medicine to championing integrative approaches that bring nature into patients' lives. Key Topics Discussed: The concentric circles model: from planetary health to nature as therapyGreen social prescribing and the evidence base for nature interventionsCold water swimming projects and their mental health benefitsPractical strategies for introducing nature connection in general practiceCommunity-led initiatives like Really Wild LockleazeThe future vision: gardens in every GP practiceAre you a Social Prescribing Link Worker? Access our online self-paced course for Social Prescribers 'The Whole Health Toolkit for Social Prescribing Link Workers' with a special podcast listener 20% discount - just enter the code PODCAST-SOCIAL at checkout! SEE FULL SHOW NOTES HERE If you’re interested in learning more about Integrative Medicine, you can:  👉 ⁠Sign up for our free newsletter Integrative Medicine Matters 👉 ⁠Sign up for our NCIM Membership, just £4.99 per month 👉 ⁠Sign up for our free Introduction to Integrative Medicine course⁠ 👉 ⁠Explore our 10 CPD Point Discovery Course in Integrative Medicine⁠ 👉 ⁠Find out more about our master’s Level 7 Diploma⁠, including single modules you can enrol in today!  NCIM also offers an Integrative Medicine Clinic, where our expert team of Integrative Medicine Doctors and Integrative Clinical Team work collaboratively to support your health and wellbeing. ⁠Learn more and book an appointment⁠. We would love to get your feedback on the topics and conversations we feature. Follow and connect with us on social media – ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, and ⁠LinkedIn⁠ – and let us know your thoughts.  Don’t forget to subscribe and share if you enjoyed this episode!  Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health or treatment plan.

    36 min

  8. 11/13/2025

    Healing Beyond Medicine: Dr Clayton Bell on the Art and Science of Integrative Care

    In this conversation, Dr. Clayton Bell shares his journey from traditional Western medicine to integrative and functional medicine, emphasising the importance of understanding the whole person in the healing process. He discusses the challenges faced in oncology, the significance of personalised cancer testing, and the need for collaboration between traditional and complementary medicine. The conversation also touches on the impact of environmental factors like mould on health and the importance of creating a supportive healing environment for patients. Their conversation includes how Dr. Bell's journey into integrative medicine began after observing the limitations of traditional medical training.He emphasises the importance of addressing root causes rather than just symptoms in patient care.The healing process involves a deep connection between the healer and the patient, where trust and compassion play crucial roles.Integrative oncology combines traditional treatments with alternative therapies for better patient outcomes.Circulating tumour cells can provide valuable insights into cancer progression and treatment efficacy.Conventional cancer testing often lacks the depth needed for personalised treatment plans.Building trust with colleagues in the medical field is essential for effective patient care.Mould exposure can significantly impact health, and proper testing is crucial for diagnosis.Creating a supportive environment is key to facilitating patient healing and success. The journey of healing is collaborative, requiring both patient and practitioner engagement. SEE FULL SHOW NOTES HERE If you’re interested in learning more about Integrative Medicine, you can: 👉 ⁠Sign up for our free newsletter Integrative Medicine Matters 👉 ⁠Sign up for our NCIM Membership, just £4.99 per month 👉 ⁠Sign up for our free Introduction to Integrative Medicine course⁠ 👉 ⁠Explore our 10 CPD Point Discovery Course in Integrative Medicine⁠ 👉 ⁠Find out more about our master’s Level 7 Diploma⁠, including single modules you can enrol in today! NCIM also offers an Integrative Medicine Clinic, where our expert team of Integrative Medicine Doctors and Integrative Clinical Team work collaboratively to support your health and wellbeing. ⁠Learn more and book an appointment⁠. We would love to get your feedback on the topics and conversations we feature. Follow and connect with us on social media – ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, and ⁠LinkedIn⁠ – and let us know your thoughts. Don’t forget to subscribe and share if you enjoyed this episode! Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health or treatment plan.

    43 min
See All (19)

About

Integrative Medicine Matters is a show that explores the science & practice of whole-person health. Join Dr Elizabeth Thompson, founder of the National Centre for Integrative Medicine (NCIM), as she interviews leading experts in lifestyle, functional & integrative medicine. She will discuss topics like nutrition, herbal medicine, fasting, movement, mindfulness & much more. NCIM is transforming healthcare through Integrative Medicine education for healthcare providers, clinical appointments for patients & a membership to learn & connect with like-minded professionals. Visit www.ncim.org.uk

Information

  • Creator
    Integrative Medicine Matters
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Integrative Medicine Matters
  • Show Website
    Integrative Medicine Matters

You Might Also Like