Autoimmune Alchemy

Functional Medicine Testing: What to Ask For When Labs Come Back Normal

“Everything is normal, but I don’t feel normal.” Both can be true. In this episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, I talk with Dr. Megha Mohey, a board-certified internal medicine and integrative medicine physician, about what to do when your labs look fine but your body says otherwise. We cover advanced testing, hidden nutrient gaps, cortisol and the HPA axis, SIBO, thyroid markers, and how to advocate for yourself Chapters 01:00 Normal Labs, But You Don’t Feel Normal 02:00 The Integrative Approach: Listening for Patterns 03:00 Advanced Testing Beyond Conventional Labs 05:00 Hidden Nutrient Gaps: B Vitamins & Ferritin 07:00 Toxins, Detox & Food Sensitivities 09:00 Early Autoimmune & Thyroid Risk Markers 11:00 The HPA Axis & Cortisol Explained 15:00 Adaptogens & Glandular Support for Fatigue 20:00 Bloating, Gut Health & SIBO 25:00 Thyroid Testing: Free T3, Free T4 & Antibodies 29:00 Fatigue, Brain Fog & Eating Real Food 31:00 Where to Find Dr. Mohey Key Takeaways 🧪 “Normal” Labs Can Still Hide Early Dysfunction 🎯 Lab Ranges Detect Disease, Not Early Imbalance 🔍 Expanded Testing Looks Beyond Iron: B Vitamins & Ferritin ⏰ Cortisol Should Be High in the Morning and Lowest at Night 🌿 Adaptogens Like Ashwagandha & Holy Basil Support the HPA Axis 🎈 Persistent Bloating Can Point to SIBO, Even With Normal Labs 🌱 Think of SIBO Like a Garden: Remove, Seed, and Feed 💬 Don’t Accept “It’s All in Your Head,” Advocate for Yourself Guest Details & Links Dr. Megha Mohey, MD is a board-certified internal medicine and integrative medicine physician and founder of Way Health in Michigan. She completed the University of Arizona’s Andrew Weil Fellowship in Integrative Medicine, with additional training in functional medicine, acupuncture, and yoga. She sees patients in person and virtually. Website: https://www.moheymd.com/ Instagram & Substack: she mentions both in the episode but gives no handles, so add them before publishing About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website:MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic:www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

PCOS, PMS & Hormone Imbalance: A Naturopathic Doctor's Root-Cause Approach

Today's guest is Dr. Sierra Goncharoff — a naturopathic doctor in Oregon specializing in gut health and women's hormones. Sierra breaks down how gut dysbiosis fuels autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, MS, and lupus, and introduces the estrobolome — the gut bacteria that regulate estrogen and drive conditions like PCOS and endometriosis. We cover fiber targets, red-flag period symptoms, perimenopause hormone testing, and why she believes "there is no cure for a crappy lifestyle." If you've ever felt dismissed about your hormones or gut symptoms, this episode gives you a real root-cause framework. Chapter and Time Stamps 00:30 Meet the Gut Expert 01:06 Autoimmunity Starts in the Gut 02:55 Dysbiosis Explained Simply 04:00 What Naturopathic Care Means 05:23 Postbiotics and Leaky Gut 08:26 Signs Your Gut Is Off 10:50 Fixing the Microbiome Basics 12:40 Estrobolome and Estrogen Balance 15:26 Fiber Foods and How to Add Them 17:57 Endocrine Disruptors at Home 21:09 Stress Reset and Cycle Tracking 24:06 Cycle Phases Explained 24:47 PMS and Estrogen Excess 25:45 Breakfast Blood Sugar Balance 26:32 Habit Stacking Not Overhauling 28:09 Nervous System Reset Tools 30:15 When Healthy Habits Stall 32:29 Adaptogens and Cortisol Rhythm 35:57 Thyroid Clues and Food Support 37:38 Autoimmunity and Inflammation 39:15 Period Red Flags to Watch 41:33 Perimenopause Bleeding and Testing 44:15 Hormone Labs and Ratios 46:37 Where to Find Dr Sierra Key Takeaways 🦠 The Gut Microbiome May Be an Autoimmune Root Cause 🧪 "Normal" Labs Don't Always Mean You're Fine 🔬 The Estrobolome Controls How Your Body Clears Estrogen 🥦 Fiber Is the #1 Lever for Hormone Balance 🕯️ Scented Candles & Incense Are Hidden Endocrine Disruptors 🩸 Heavy or Irregular Periods Are Never "Just Normal" 🧘 Box Breathing Can Calm Your Nervous System in Seconds ✨ There's No Supplement That Fixes a Crappy Lifestyle Guest Details & Links Dr. Sierra Goncharoff is a naturopathic doctor practicing primary care in Portland, Oregon, with a special focus on gut health and women's hormones. She helps patients uncover root causes behind autoimmune and hormonal imbalances — from gut dysbiosis to estrogen excess — using a personalized, food-first approach. A strong advocate for hormone education, she helps women understand their cycles, spot red-flag symptoms, and build sustainable habits instead of chasing quick fixes. Practices at: Florin Health (SW Portland) & Sprouting Health and Wellness (Gresham, OR) — in-person and virtual for Oregon residents About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website:MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic:www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

Scleroderma Explained: Early Signs, Diagnosis & New Treatments from a UCLA Expert

Today's guest is Dr. Elizabeth Volkmann — Associate Professor of Rheumatology at UCLA and Director of the UCLA Scleroderma Program. Elizabeth blends leading-edge research with holistic care — treating the whole person, not just the antibodies. In this episode, we cover the early, often-missed signs of scleroderma, the newest treatment frontier (CAR T therapy and stem cell transplant), and her groundbreaking research linking childhood trauma and gut microbiome health to disease risk. If you or someone you love lives with scleroderma, this conversation offers real hope grounded in real science. Chapter and Time Stamps 00:34 Meet Dr. Volkmann 01:47 Early Signs and Diagnosis 03:54 Key Antibodies and Labs 06:30 Understanding Skin Thickening 08:00 Treating Fibrosis Today 09:53 Stem Cells and CAR T 13:10 CAR T Results and Trials 14:14 Interstitial Lung Disease Focus 15:31 Trauma and Autoimmunity 19:45 Gut Microbiome Discoveries 21:45 Probiotics and Bacteria Patterns 24:29 Reversal Through Lifestyle 27:48 Integrative Medicine Balance 29:00 Where to Find Dr Volkmann 29:45 Closing Thanks and Goodbye Key Takeaways 🧬 Scleroderma Can Take Years to Diagnose — Here's Why 🩸 Antibodies Don't Tell the Whole Story 🌱 She Built Her Research From What Patients Told Her 🧠 Trauma Isn't Just Emotional — It May Predict Disease 💔 Patients Often Blame Themselves for Getting Sick 🔗 Antibiotics Revealed a Hidden Gut-Scleroderma Connection 🧩 Reversal Is Possible — But Rarely From Medication Alone ✨ One Truth Underlies It All: Healing Needs the Whole Person Guest Details & Links Dr. Elizabeth Volkmann is an Associate Professor of Rheumatology at UCLA and Director of the UCLA Scleroderma Program. She also founded the UCLA Connective Tissue Disease-Related Interstitial Lung Disease (CTD-ILD) Program, where her research explores novel biomarkers and the gut microbiome's role in disease. A practitioner of holistic medicine, she treats the whole person — psychological, spiritual, and biological — and her research is directly inspired by patterns she's observed in her patients, including a striking link between childhood trauma and scleroderma risk. Instagram: @theholisticrheumatologist About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website:MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic:www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

Why 90% of Cancer Isn't Genetic: Cell Care with Dr. Monisha Bhanote

What if the biggest predictor of your health isn't your genes, but your daily habits? In this episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, I sit down with Dr. Monisha Bhanote, a quintuple board-certified physician and integrative pathologist, to talk about #cellcare — the science of listening to your cells before disease takes hold. We cover travel gut health, toxin protection, and the wild story of how a freak accident led her to develop autoimmune disease and rebuild her brain through lifestyle alone. Chapter and Time Stamps: 00:50 Meet Dr. Monisha Bhanote 02:25 From Med School to Pathology 04:53 Integrative Medicine Shift 07:27 Cell Care Explained 10:24 Cells and Food Fuel 11:26 Autoimmune Travel Flare Story 13:51 Five Travel Pathways 18:04 Digestion Dos and Donts 21:42 Smart Travel Foods 23:30 Hydration Skin and Immunity 26:29 Find Quiet Spaces 27:09 Stress-Free Travel Mindset 27:58 Hotel Sleep Sanctuary 29:25 Immune Herbs Basics 30:49 Stillness and Recovery Days 33:03 Golf Ball TBI Story 37:29 Rebuilding with Lifestyle 38:12 Ayurvedic Brain Support 39:45 Mitochondria and Plant Diversity 44:16 True North Longevity 46:42 Retreats and Travela Supplement 50:46 Where to Find Dr Bhanote 51:16 Final Thanks and Wrap Key Takeaways 🧬 90% of Cancer Isn't Genetics — It's Lifestyle 🔬 Your Cells Are "Angry" Long Before You Feel Sick 🌱 #CellCare Isn't Self-Care — It's Deeper Than That ✈️ Travel Changes Your Microbiome in Just 20 Hours 🫚 Ginger & Turmeric Water Beats Soda on the Road 🏌️ One Freak Accident Triggered Full-Blown Autoimmune Disease 🧠 She Rebuilt Her Brain With Lifestyle, Not Meds 💊 Travela Was Born From an Apothecary in Her Suitcase Guest Details & Links Dr. Monisha Bhanote, MD, FCAP, ABOIM — one of the few quintuple board-certified physicians in the U.S., known as the Wellbeing Doctor. She combines her expertise as an integrative pathologist, cytopathologist, and culinary medicine specialist to help people understand disease at the cellular level. Founder of the WELLKULÅ Institute and creator of Travela, a travel wellness and longevity supplement. Website: drbhanote.com Social: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube & Pinterest @DrBhanote About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website:MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic:www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

SNPs, Genes & Chronic Illness: Why Your Genetic Test Doesn't Tell the Whole Story

Dr. Nate Handley — an integrative oncologist and Director of the Cancer Recovery Program at Jefferson University's Marcus Institute for Integrative Health, who treats both cancer patients and complex chronic illness through precision medicine, blending genetics, bloodwork, and whole-person care. From explaining why 75% of people carry an MTHFR variant that may not even be their real problem, to breaking down what a "normal" homocysteine or MCV level can quietly hide, this episode is packed with real clinical insight, precision-medicine tools, and practical testing knowledge you won't hear anywhere else. We go deep into the polyomics approach — genes, gut, environment, and everything in between — why your genetic blueprint is only part of the story, and how Nate decides who actually needs targeted supplementation versus who doesn't Chapters and Time Stamps: 00:55 Meet Dr Nate Hanly 01:52 What Integrative Oncology Means 04:06 Beyond Cancer Care 04:57 Precision Medicine Polyomics 08:10 SNPs High vs Low Penetrance 11:06 MTHFR Variants Explained 13:03 Who Needs Methylfolate 15:32 SNP Panels and Polyomics 17:57 Supplements Food First Strategy 19:21 Clinic Testing Workflow 23:20 Inflammation Markers and Cytokines 24:04 Neutrophil Lymphocyte Ratio 25:52 High MCV Causes and Clues 29:16 Homocysteine and Methylation Cycle 32:05 Wrap Up and Where to Find Him Key Takeaways 🧬 Having the Gene Doesn't Mean You'll Have the Problem 🏠 Your Genes Are a Blueprint — Not the Whole House 🔬 75% of People Have an MTHFR Variant — Most Never Notice It 🥦 Food First, Supplements Second — Always 🩸 A "Normal" Homocysteine Can Still Hide a Methylation Block 📊 A High MCV Isn't Always a B12 Problem 🌍 Your Environment Is Part of Your Biology Too 🧪 One Test Rarely Tells the Whole Story — Look at the Landscape Guest Details & Links Guest: Dr. Nate Handley Specialty: Integrative Oncology | Precision Medicine | Internal Medicine Background: While practicing general oncology, Nate noticed a recurring gap — patients recovering from cancer treatment were often left without support for the fatigue, pain, and cognitive changes that followed. That gap led him to integrative oncology, and eventually to expand his practice to treat complex chronic illness beyond cancer, including autoimmune and rheumatologic conditions and long COVID. Education: Board-certified in internal medicine, medical oncology, and integrative medicine; Associate Professor, Department of Integrative Medicine and Nutritional Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University Certifications: N/A (board certifications listed above; no additional certifications stated in episode) Past Work: Practiced general oncology before shifting toward integrative and precision medicine; now splits his practice roughly evenly between cancer patients and patients with complex chronic disease Turning Point: Repeatedly seeing cancer survivors left to navigate recovery alone — without support for the physical and cognitive fallout of treatment — pushed Nate to build a program centered on whole-person healing, not just disease treatment Known For: Director of the Integrative Cancer Recovery Program at the Marcus Institute for Integrative Health; expert in polyomics-based precision medicine, SNP testing, and methylation pathways (MTHFR, COMT, homocysteine) Offers: Integrative oncology and precision medicine consultations at the Marcus Institute for Integrative Health, Thomas Jefferson University (Philadelphia) Links: 🌐 Website: nathanleymd.com About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website:MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic:www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

The 360 Approach to Mental Health: Trauma, Gut & Hormones with Kirkland Newman

What if the panic attacks, the insomnia, the depression you've been handed a prescription for are actually your body asking you to look deeper? In this episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, I sit down with Kirkland Newman, journalist, founder of MindHealth360, and Executive Director of IMMH. To unpack her own postpartum depression journey and why functional psychiatry looks at root causes instead of just silencing symptoms. We go deep into trauma, hormones, nervous system regulation, and the daily practices that build real resilience. Chapter and Time Stamps: 00:56 Meet Kiki Newman 02:23 First Postpartum Panic 03:58 Medication Fallout 05:28 Testing Changed Everything 07:10 Mind Health 360 Mission 09:21 Trauma Meets Biochemistry 12:42 Why Postpartum Gets Missed 18:41 Self Care and Rest Lessons 21:40 Experts and Common Threads 27:12 Start With the Basics 32:13 Bioenergetics and Inner Healer 35:19 Conference Invite and Wrap Up Key Takeaways 🧠 Postpartum Depression Isn't "Just Hormones" — It's Missed 🔍 Nobody Tested Her Hormones, Nutrients, or Gut 🌱 She Built a Global Platform From Her Own Breakdown 🩺 Even Mental Health Experts Forget to Rest 💔 Trauma Isn't Just Emotional — It Lives in the Body 🔗 Gabor Maté's Work Reshaped How She Sees Healing 🧩 The 360 Framework: Sleep, Nutrition, Movement, Rest & Trauma ✨ One Truth Underlies It All: The Body Can Heal Itself Guest Details & Links Kirkland Newman is an Anglo-American journalist and entrepreneur working at the intersection of mental health and functional medicine. She's Founder & Editor of MindHealth360, host of The MindHealth360 Show, and Executive Director of IMMH, the leading U.S. conference in the field — founded after her own experience with postpartum depression. She holds degrees from Oxford, LSE, and SOAS, and co-founded The Horizon Foundation for young refugees. Website: mindhealth360.com Conference: immh.org About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website:MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic:www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

CAR T-Cell Therapy for Autoimmune Disease Explained | Dr. Vaneet Sandhu

What if treating your autoimmune disease didn't mean a lifetime of infusions, but one? In this episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, I talk with Dr. Vaneet Sandhu, VP of Clinical Development at Fate Therapeutics, about CAR T-cell therapy: how it reprograms immune cells to eliminate the "bad actor" B-cells driving disease, why it started in oncology and is now being tested in lupus, scleroderma, vasculitis and more, and what the recent safety headlines actually mean for patients considering a trial. Chapter and Time Stamps: 00:00 CAR T Cells Explained 01:04 Meet The Guest 02:19 What Is CAR T Therapy 03:28 Off The Shelf Manufacturing 05:39 Dosing And Infusion Basics 06:57 How CAR T Targets B Cells 08:37 B Cell Return And Reset 09:56 Diseases And Trial Phases 11:05 Timeline And Eligibility 13:37 From Cancer To Autoimmune 15:18 Early Results And Safety 20:18 Trial Pauses And Deaths 23:35 Comparing Companies 27:01 Hard To Treat Diseases 28:26 How To Join Trials 29:41 Final Thoughts And Resources Key Takeaways 🧬 A CAR T-Cell Is Just a Soldier With New Orders 🏭 Off-the-Shelf Beats Custom-Made — Here's Why 💉 One Infusion, Not a Lifetime of Them 🎯 It's Not Killing Immunity — It's Retraining It 🔄 The B-Cells That Come Back Aren't the Bad Ones 🦠 Started in Cancer, Now Rewriting Autoimmune Treatment ⚠️ Safety Headlines Aren't the Whole Story — Context Matters 🔍 Not a Cure Yet — But a Real Shot at Remission Guest Details & Links Dr. Vaneet Sandhu — Vice President of Clinical Development at Fate Therapeutics, where she leads clinical programs in autoimmunity. Previously a practicing rheumatologist at Loma Linda University and rheumatology fellowship program director. Medical degree from a medical college in India; master's in academic medicine from the University of Missouri; internal medicine residency at Loma Linda University; rheumatology fellowship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Website: fatetherapeutics.com Clinical trial search: clinicaltrials.gov About Your Hosts Micah Yu, MD, MHA, MS, ABOIM, DipABLM, IFMCP Dr. Micah Yu is a triple board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional medicine with holistic, nutrition-based healing to treat autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. A patient himself, Dr. Yu brings a deeply personal perspective to his work, having reversed his own autoimmune arthritis through lifestyle and integrative medicine. He is certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. As the founder of MyAutoimmuneMD and co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic, Dr. Yu empowers patients to address the root causes of illness and reclaim their health from the inside out. Melissa Mondala, MD, MHA, MS, DipABLM Dr. Melissa Mondala is a dual board-certified physician in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, with advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Integrative Medicine. As President of Dr. Lifestyle Clinic in Newport Beach—recognized by UC Irvine as a Public Health Site of Excellence—she pioneers a holistic, patient-centered approach to chronic disease. Dr. Mondala is a nationally recognized Lifestyle Medicine Intensivist, core faculty at Loma Linda University's Preventive Medicine Department, and a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, mental health, and women's wellness. A sought-after speaker and educator, she combines cutting-edge science with deep compassion to empower lasting healing, especially for those silently suffering from autoimmune, mental health, and long COVID conditions. She shares practical inspiration for healthy living and cooking at @drmelissaskitchen. About AutoImmune Alchemy Podcast Mission: Blending science with soul to transform autoimmune struggles into healing alchemy AutoImmune Alchemy is a podcast dedicated to the autoimmune community, offering hope, validation, and evidence-based solutions for those struggling with complex autoimmune conditions. Hosted by the dynamic duo Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Micah Yu, the show features expert interviews exploring root causes like hormonal imbalances, leaky gut, and inflammation that traditional medicine often overlooks. Each episode empowers listeners to take proactive control of their health through lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and integrative approaches. Connect with AutoImmune Alchemy Website:MyAutoimmuneMD.com Dr. Lifestyle Clinic:www.drlifestyle.org Instagram: @myautoimmunemd Facebook: @MYAutoimmuneMD YouTube: @myautoimmunemd Email: contact@myautoimmunemd.com Subscribe & Review: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. If this episode helped you understand environmental toxins and autoimmune disease, please leave a 5-star review!

Infertility & Autoimmune Disease: The Hidden Hormone Connection

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

Berberine, Ashwagandha & LDN for Thyroid Healing

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

Why Anxiety Lives in Your Body, Not Your Mind | Dr. Russell Kennedy

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

Forever Chemicals & Autoimmunity: What Your Fat Cells Are Hiding

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

Why You're Exhausted, Bloated & Anxious: A Naturopath Explains Burnout in Women

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

Chrononutrition for Rheumatoid Arthritis and Autoimmunity: Timing Your Meals Right

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

Perimenopause Rage & Dark Thoughts: What 40-60% of Women Never Talk About

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

East Plus West Medicine: How a Rheumatologist Uses Herbs & Acupuncture to Treat Autoimmune Disease

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

How Healing Your Nervous System Reversed My MS Symptoms

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

Pediatric Rheumatologist Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Dr. Saimun Singla's Story

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

Bloated After Every Meal? The Hidden Gut Condition Your Doctor Is Missing with Dr. Rajsree Nambudripad

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

RA Remission Without Methotrexate or Biologics — A Real Patient Story That Will Blow Your Mind

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

MCAS: Why Doctors Keep Missing This Diagnosis — And How to Finally Get Answers

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

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