Autoimmune Alchemy

Dr. Micah Yu and Dr. Melissa Mondala

Join Dr. Micah Yu, a board-certified integrative rheumatologist, and Dr. Melissa Mondala, an integrative medicine and mental health expert, as they bridge the gap between cutting-edge science and soulful healing.

In Autoimmune Alchemy, this husband-and-wife MD team share personal stories, expert insights, and powerful patient journeys to explore how autoimmune illness and chronic disease can be transformed through integrative medicine.

From evidence-based science and integrative medicine to ancient healing wisdom and mindset practices, this podcast is your guide to whole-person health, from science to soul.

Subscribe Listen in podnod RSS feed Show website

45 episodes
Updated Today

Episodes45

Newest first

Today · 46 min
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!
July 27 · 40 min
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!
July 20 · 33 min
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!
July 13 · 42 min
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!
July 6 · 55 min
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!
June 29 · 21 min
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.
June 22 · 41 min
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!
June 15 · 52 min
Do Fermented Foods beat High Fiber Foods?
Today's guest is the incredible Dr. Vincent Pedre — integrative physician, Medical Director of Pedre Integrative Health in NYC, founder of Happy Gut Health, and bestselling author of Happy Gut and The Gut Smart Protocol. Dr. Vincent's personal journey from 20+ rounds of childhood antibiotics to healing his own IBS, eczema, and leaky gut is nothing short of transformational. In this episode, we go deep into the gut-immune connection, the power of fermented foods, peptide therapy, mitochondrial health, and even the hidden toxins in your morning coffee. If you have an autoimmune condition, chronic inflammation, or just want to optimize your gut — this one is for YOU. Chapters & Time Stamps 0:56 Introduction & Welcome 2:00 Dr. Pedre's Personal Gut Health Journey 6:02 Childhood Foods & Antibiotic Overuse 6:48 Discovering Functional Medicine & Diet Clean-Up 10:33 Going Gluten-Free & Building a Clean Home 11:27 Dr. Pedre's Books: Happy Gut & The Gut Smart Protocol 13:33 Fermented Foods vs. High Fiber Diet Study 14:21 Gut Microbiome Diversity Explained 18:54 Fermented Foods Win Over Fiber for Inflammation 20:29 How Fermented Foods Increase Gut Diversity 24:13 Pesticides, Glyphosate & Gut Disruption 25:08 Leaky Gut, Dysbiosis & Chronic Disease 26:18 Gluten, Dairy & Healing Food Intolerances 26:52 Peptide Therapy for Gut Healing 30:12 What Are Peptides & How They Work 31:21 GLP-1 Medications — Benefits & Cautions 32:34 Key Supplements: L-Glutamine, Zinc, Omega-3s 35:08 Mitochondria: The Next Frontier in Health 37:10 Mitochondrial Damage: Antibiotics, Toxins & EMF 40:15 Red Light Therapy & Mitochondrial Energy 43:23 GLP-1 & SIBO — What's the Connection? 45:37 Happy Gut Coffee — The Origin Story 48:53 Coffee's Hidden Dangers & Health Benefits 50:58 Where to Find Dr. Pedre & Happy Gut Coffee GUEST DETAILS & LINKS Dr. Vincent Pedre, MD Integrative & Functional Medicine Physician | Gut Health Expert | Author 🌐 Website: happygut.com ☕ Happy Gut Coffee: happygutcoffee.com 📸 Instagram: @DrPedre 📚 Books: Happy Gut | The Gut Smart Protocol 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!
June 8 · 52 min
PANDAS in Kids: The Infection-Driven Brain Disorder Doctors Are Finally Talking About | Dr. Scott Antoine
SHOW NOTES On this episode of AutoImmune Alchemy, I sit down with Dr. Scott Antoine — triple board-certified integrative and functional medicine physician, Amazon bestselling author, and one of the leading experts in PANS and PANDAS. His journey into this field began when his own daughter Emma was suddenly struck with severe OCD, defiance, and behavioral changes at age 12 — only to recover dramatically after IVIG treatment. That experience changed everything. If you've ever wondered why your child's psychiatric diagnosis didn't respond to treatment, or if their symptoms came on suddenly out of nowhere, this conversation could be life-changing. Chapters & Time-Stamps 1:01 Dr. Antoine's Personal Story with PANDAS 3:19 What is PANS & PANDAS? 5:47 IVIG & Insurance Coverage 7:10 History of the Diagnosis 10:32 Medical Acceptance & Controversy 18:27 Diagnosis & Workup 29:10 Mycoplasma & Epstein-Barr Virus 36:53 Treatment Monitoring & Antibiotic Duration 45:41 Holistic Treatment Approach 48:55 Final Words & Hope for Families 49:49 Where to Find Dr. Antoine Guest Details Triple board-certified integrative & functional medicine physician, PANS/PANDAS expert, and author of the Amazon bestselling Comprehensive Physician's Guide to the Management of PANS & PANDAS. Co-owner of the Center for Fully Functional Health in Carmel, Indiana. 🔗 fullyfunctional.com 🔗 thepandasdocs.com 📱 @thepandasdocs 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!
June 1 · 48 min
Perimenopause Warning Signs Doctors Miss & What to Do Instead
In this powerful episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, I sit down with Dr. Jila Senemar — OB/GYN, longevity physician, and founder of the Miami Menopause Collective. With 20 years of experience, Dr. Jila is rewriting the narrative around menopause — from fear to freedom. We cover everything from early perimenopause signs and comprehensive lab testing to bioidentical hormones, PCOS, microplastics, and why lifestyle always comes first. If you've ever felt dismissed by your doctor, this episode is for YOU. 10 KEY TAKEAWAYS It's not anti-aging — it's longevity. Lifestyle is non-negotiable first. Perimenopause doesn't start with hot flashes. Iron deficiency is massively underdiagnosed. Your cardiovascular risk skyrockets after menopause. All bioidentical hormones are FDA-approved. Comprehensive labs are not expensive. PCOS and endometriosis are driven by environment. Food can restore ovulatory cycles in PCOS. Women need time, not a 5-minute visit. CHAPTERS 01:34 What Anti Aging Means 03:04 Start With Lifestyle Basics 04:58 When Stress Catches Up 07:57 Early Perimenopause Clues 10:46 Menopause As New Chapter 13:02 Stepwise Plan And Supplements 16:57 Red Light And Sauna Reality 18:25 Labs To Check First 22:19 Cardio Risk After Fifty 24:40 When To Consider Hormones 25:49 Hormone Therapy Reframed 27:01 Bioidentical and Delivery Options 28:23 Hormones Autoimmunity and Heart Risk 29:02 PCOS Metabolic Roots 30:52 Toxins and Fertility Trends 32:22 Endometriosis New Science 33:07 Optimizing Women in Their 20s 34:52 Patient Wins Lifestyle and Listening 40:08 Why Womens Health Needed More 43:25 Miami Menopause Collective and Empower 47:04 Where to Find Her 47:49 Closing Thanks and Takeaways GUEST DETAILS Dr. Jila Senemar, MD | OB/GYN | Longevity & Women's Health Physician Founder — Miami Menopause Collective Host — Her Time, Her Health Podcast Perimenopause · Menopause · Hormones Longevity Medicine · Women's Integrative Health 20+ Years in OB/GYN & Women's Health Based in Miami, Florida CONNECT 🌐 jilamd.com 📸 @drjilasenemar (Instagram) 🎙️ Podcast: Her Time, Her Health 📍 Miami, Florida 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!
May 25 · 42 min
Natural Testosterone Boosters That Actually Work—Dr. Micah Howard on Herbs, Hormones & Men's Health
In this episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, I sit down with my fellow Andrew Weil Center cohort member and dear friend, Dr. Micah Howard — integrative physician, hypnotherapist, and Alabama's trailblazer in root-cause medicine. We dive DEEP into the testosterone conversation most doctors are getting wrong. Is TRT always necessary? What's really driving the hormonal crash in men? And what can herbs, lifestyle, and nitric oxide do before you ever pick up a syringe? Whether you're navigating autoimmune disease, fatigue, or hormonal imbalance — this one's for you. 10 KEY TAKEAWAYS Testosterone isn't a fix-all. Body fat is the #1 testosterone killer. Endocrine disruptors are real and everywhere. Remove the poison before you add anything. Natural boosters work — if you give them time. Nitric oxide is the unsung hero of men's health. Testosterone levels are wildly dynamic. GLP-1s are a double-edged sword. Testosterone can improve autoimmune symptoms. Sugar is hormonal sabotage — and it's addictive by design. CHAPTERS 01:52 Testosterone Hype And Risks 04:19 Why Levels Are Dropping 07:03 Endocrine Disruptors 09:04 GLP One Tradeoffs 10:17 Target Levels And Testing 13:12 Deficiency Signs And Vascular Health 14:37 Lifestyle Before TRT 18:18 Women And Testosterone 20:13 Natural Boosters And Herbs 23:54 Hibiscus For Water Retention 24:25 Hawthorn And Vessel Support 25:08 Ginseng And Key Adjuncts 27:27 Best Forms To Take 29:25 Stacking Versus Single Herbs 30:19 Men Versus Women Use 31:18 Trial Timelines And Goals 33:41 Testosterone Delivery Options 36:01 Autoimmune Links And Sugar Breaks 39:59 Wrap Up And Where To Find GUEST DETAILS Dr. Micah Howard, MD, ABOIM Board-Certified Integrative & Family Physician | CEO & Medical Director, Healing University Alabama's first integrative primary care clinic — rooted in Ayurvedic, Native American & evidence-based medicine. 🎓 Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine Fellow 📍 Decatur, Alabama 📖 Author of Body of Work + 7 published collections 🌐 Website: bewellconnective.com 📧 Email: micahhowardmd@gmail.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!
May 18 · 51 min
Former CrossFit Pro: How Overtraining Destroyed Metabolism & Hormones
Today I have Dr. Becca Chilczenkowski, board-certified practitioner and hormone specialist who was a top 100 CrossFitter yet gained 15 pounds in one month and lost her cycle for three years from overtraining. Genetic testing revealed her inflammatory system turns on easily and struggles to turn off, making extreme exercise backfire. Becca reveals why detoxification—liver, gallbladder, bile support—is foundational, why she cut training from 6 days to 3 days weekly and became leaner, and why peptides are a "privilege you must earn" through lifestyle work first. She shares healing weight loss resistance, autoimmune, and MCAS through nervous system regulation, faith, and honoring rest as productive. Key Takeaways Genetics: Some bodies turn on inflammation easily, struggle to shut off Detox first: Liver, gallbladder, bile before hormone optimization Exercise less: 3 days strength beats 6 days HIIT Rest is productive: Body forces rest if you don't choose it Protein moderation: 80-90g/day works better for some Peptides privilege: Earn through lifestyle, not replacement Bile crucial: Main hormone detoxifier, methylation support Genetic testing: Infron Pro 7 validates struggles Nervous system: Faith, journaling, vagus nerve essential Mindset matters: Self-talk sabotages healing Chapters & Timestamps 01:11 Becca Fitness Origins 02:28 Injury IVF And Weight Gain 03:10 Functional Medicine Awakening 05:35 Beyond Hormones Root Causes 06:27 Inflammation Stress And Metabolism 08:19 Where To Start Cell Detox 10:20 Exercise Stress Perimenopause 11:56 Nervous System Grounding Tools 15:28 Bile Liver And Gut Support 17:47 Fitness Myths Rest Protein 21:42 Learning To Rest And Reset Mindset 24:22 Gut Rebuild Strategy 26:54 Methylation Detox Basics 28:58 Labs That Matter Most 31:48 Genetics For Personalization 34:00 Muscle Bone Without HRT 36:38 Training Styles That Stick 39:16 Nutrition For Strength 41:16 Peptides Safety First 44:02 Peptides Pros And Cons 47:24 Mindset Faith And Support 49:35 Where To Find Becca Guest Details Dr. Becca Chilczenkowski — Board-Certified Practitioner & Hormone Specialist Background: Former top 100 CrossFitter. Lost 40-50 lbs competing, then gained 15 lbs in one month despite perfect diet/exercise. Lost cycle 3 years from overtraining. Discovery: Genetic testing (Infron Pro 7) revealed highly responsive inflammatory system—turns on easily, struggles to turn off. Practice: Virtual practice for weight loss resistance, autoimmune, MCAS, long COVID. Chicago-based. Philosophy: Detox first (liver/gallbladder/bile). Rest is productive. Peptides require earning through lifestyle. Faith-based. Connect: Instagram: @theHormoneQueen Website:FitMom.co 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!
May 11 · 49 min
Autoimmune Protocol Diet: How to Start the AIP Diet The Right Way
Today I have Mickey Trescott, nutrition professional and AIP pioneer who trained 1,000+ providers worldwide. Mickey shares her journey from bedridden with Hashimoto's/Celiac to creating the AIP movement, and reveals groundbreaking research: 73% IBD patients achieved clinical remission in 6 weeks, Hashimoto's patients lost 8 pounds eating the same 2,000 calories through reduced inflammation, and 29% CRP reduction without changing thyroid meds. She introduces Modified AIP—including rice, legumes (no soy/peanuts), ghee, seeds—making the protocol less restrictive. Her new book The New Autoimmune Protocol covers 9 human studies with easy recipes for both core and modified AIP. Chapters & Timestamps 01:00 Mickey's Hashimoto's & Celiac Journey 07:00 What Is Autoimmune Protocol Diet? 09:00 Modified AIP: Rice, Legumes, Ghee, Seeds 16:00 IBD Study: 73% Remission in 6 Weeks 20:00 Hashimoto's: 29% CRP Reduction 23:00 Weight Loss Without Calorie Restriction 28:00 RA Study: 7 of 9 Improved 35:00 Elimination Phase: 30-90 Days 39:00 AIP vs Paleo Differences 42:00 Nightshades & Autoimmune Guest Details Mickey Trescott, NTP, MS — Nutrition Professional & AIP Pioneer Training: MS in Human Nutrition & Functional Medicine. AIP Certified Coach program co-creator (1,000+ providers trained). Background: Hashimoto's & Celiac survivor. Created AIP movement from online community experiments. Collaborated on 9 human AIP studies. Books: The New Autoimmune Protocol (May 26, 2025), The Autoimmune Paleo Cookbook, The Autoimmune Wellness Handbook, The Nutrient Dense Kitchen Connect: Website:TheAutoimmuneProtocol.com Social: @MickeyTrescott Book: May 26, 2025 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!
May 4 · 20 min
Stop Dieting in Perimenopause: Why Calorie Restriction Worsens Cortisol & Autoimmune
Today I'm honored to have Dr. Salome Masghati, OB-GYN and pelvic surgeon who transitioned from operating rooms to preventative medicine. Dr. Salome reveals why autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto's, lupus, and RA spike during perimenopause—estrogen is anti-inflammatory, and when it declines, cortisol dysregulates, inflammation rises, and autoimmune flares. She explains why calorie restriction backfires in midlife, worsening cortisol and weight gain, and shares practical steps: morning sunlight, protein breakfasts, resistance training, gut testing, and hormone optimization. Hormones alone aren't enough—you need proper liver detox, gut health, and anti-inflammatory diet to truly heal. Key Takeaways Autoimmune diseases spike in perimenopause when estrogen (anti-inflammatory) declines Cortisol dysregulates when estrogen drops—overactive to compensate Calorie restriction worsens cortisol dysregulation—don't undereat in midlife Start simple: morning sunlight, protein breakfasts, resistance training (not just cardio) Estrogen & testosterone are immune modulators—decline = autoimmune flares Hashimoto's, lupus, RA improve in pregnancy, worsen in menopause Hormones need gut health, liver detox, anti-inflammatory diet to work Heavy/painful periods, cyclical migraines = hormone-related symptoms COVID disrupted gut microbiome—long COVID worsened autoimmune Individualized testing: gut, heavy metals, micronutrients Chapters & Timestamps 02:00 Cortisol Clues: Exhausted Mornings, Wired Nights 03:00 Why Cortisol Goes Haywire in Perimenopause 05:00 Metabolic Changes: Weight Gain, Insulin Resistance 07:00 Simple Starts: Sunlight, Protein, Resistance Training 10:00 Autoimmune Diseases Spike When Estrogen Declines 12:00 Hormones Need Gut Health & Liver Detox 14:00 When Is Surgery Needed vs Lifestyle? 16:00 Environmental Toxins & COVID Impact 17:00 Beyond Basic Bloodwork Guest Details Salome Masghati, MD — OB-GYN, Pelvic Surgeon & Hormone Specialist Training: OB-GYN, pelvic surgery, regenerative medicine, advanced hormone therapy, preventative wellness Current Focus: Preventative medicine—balancing hormones to prevent surgeries, addressing root causes (gut health, environmental toxins, metabolic dysfunction) Philosophy: Individualized care. Hormones must be balanced with proper liver detox, gut microbiome, anti-inflammatory diet. Connect: Instagram: @drsalomemasghatimd Website: DrsalomemasghatiIndividualized Hormone Therapy for Women | Dr. Salome Masghati 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!
April 27 · 1 hr 1 min
Environmental Toxins and Forever Chemicals: What's Really Destroying Your Health?
Today I sit down with Lara Adler, environmental health educator with 14+ years experience helping health professionals understand how environmental chemicals impact chronic health conditions. Lara explains how environmental toxins—from air pollution to endocrine disruptors like BPA and phthalates—contribute to autoimmune disease, metabolic dysfunction, and chronic illness over decades of exposure. She reveals air pollution has the strongest research linking it to all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune conditions, why PFAS "forever chemicals" can't be detoxed from the body, and practical free strategies anyone can implement today: open windows daily ("house burping"), remove shoes indoors, decline receipts, ditch scented products, vacuum/wet dust regularly, and swap kitchen plastics for glass/stainless steel. Lara emphasizes this is a long game—not perfection—and shares how to protect yourself without fear-mongering or breaking the bank. Key Takeaways Air pollution has strongest research linking to all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune conditions Endocrine disruptors (BPA, phthalates, PFAS) found in plastics, receipts, scented products Free swaps: open windows daily, remove shoes, decline receipts, ditch scented candles Vacuum/wet dust regularly—chemicals accumulate in house dust Kitchen plastics: swap for glass, stainless steel, cast iron, carbon steel Detox supplements don't work for BPA/phthalates (body metabolizes in 6-12 hours) PFAS forever chemicals: no proven detox exists yet Flame retardants mostly removed from furniture post-2014 (California law change) Water filters: reverse osmosis removes most but wasteful; carbon filters often sufficient Air filters: HEPA + carbon (8-15 lbs carbon ideal); avoid ionizing Chapters & Timestamps 01:00 How Lara Got Into Environmental Health 05:00 What Are Environmental Toxins? 09:00 Why Long-Term Studies Are Rare 14:00 Biggest Misconceptions About Toxins Online 18:00 Top 3 Toxin Exposures: Air Pollution & Endocrine Disruptors 26:00 BPA Disrupts Immune System Too 29:00 Free & Easy Swaps: Open Windows, Remove Shoes 32:00 Scented Products = Phthalates in House Dust 35:00 Ditch Kitchen Plastics: Glass, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron 37:00 Why Detox Supplements Don't Work for Most Toxins 39:00 PFAS Forever Chemicals: No Detox Solution Exists 41:00 Flame Retardants in Furniture: The California Story 49:00 Best Cookware: Cast Iron, Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel 52:00 Water Filters: Reverse Osmosis vs Carbon Filters 56:00 Air Filters: HEPA + Carbon (Not Ionizing) Guest Details Lara Adler — Environmental Health Educator & Consultant Expertise: 14+ years helping health professionals understand environmental chemical impacts on chronic health. Currently pursuing Master's in Public Health, University of Massachusetts. Work: Bridges emerging research with practical evidence-based strategies to minimize toxic exposures and strengthen resilience. Advises health-focused organizations and practitioners. Mission: Balanced, evidence-based education without fear-mongering. Helping people make practical changes within their means. Connect: Instagram: @EnvironmentalToxinsNerd Substack: Talking Toxins Website:LaraAdler.com LinkedIn: Linkedinlinkedin.com/in/laraadler 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!
April 20 · 1 hr 3 min
Perimenopause, PCOS & Progesterone: Hormone Replacement Therapy Explained
Show Notes In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Tara Scott, a trailblazer in integrative hormone medicine with 23 years of experience, to reveal why birth control pills are NOT hormone replacement therapy and how bioidentical hormones transform women's health from teens to post-menopause. Dr. Scott explains when to test hormones (even on birth control or IUDs), why progesterone drops first in late 30s causing insomnia and anxiety, and how estrogen is anti-inflammatory for autoimmune patients. We discuss the groundbreaking 7 million women study showing 26% mortality reduction and 19% breast cancer reduction with transdermal hormone therapy. Key Takeaways Birth control prevents pregnancy, NOT replaces hormones Progesterone drops first (late 30s) = insomnia, anxiety, water retention Test hormones during pill-free week if on birth control Estrogen is anti-inflammatory—autoimmune flares increase in menopause Low DHEA common in autoimmune patients—check both DHEA & DHEA-S Testosterone for women requires compounding—no FDA female dose Micronized progesterone is FDA-approved bioidentical hormone 7M women study: 26% mortality reduction, 19% breast cancer reduction (transdermal HRT) Vaginal DHEA safer for breast cancer survivors than estradiol Luteal phase defect = ovulation to period <14 days = low progesterone Chapters & Timestamps 02:00 When Do Hormones Become Abnormal? 04:00 Testing Hormones: Timing & Birth Control 07:00 Can You Test on Birth Control or IUD? 12:00 Low DHEA in Autoimmune Patients 14:00 Progesterone Drops First: Insomnia & Anxiety 18:00 Birth Control Is NOT Hormone Replacement 22:00 Bioidentical Hormones: FDA-Approved Options 26:00 Luteal Phase Defect & Micronized Progesterone 29:00 Testosterone for Women: Compounding Solutions 46:00 DHEA vs DHEA-S: Why Test Both 50:00 Breast Cancer & Hormone Therapy Myths 56:00 7M Women Study: 26% Mortality Reduction 01:01:00 Where to Find Dr. Tara Scott Guest Details Dr. Tara Scott, MD, FACOG — OB-GYN & Hormone Specialist Credentials: Board-certified OB-GYN. Certified Menopause Practitioner (2006). Fellowship Functional Medicine (A4M). Board-certified Integrative Medicine (2015). 23+ years hormone specialization. Specializations: Bioidentical HRT, PCOS, perimenopause, menopause, testosterone for women, breast cancer survivors, autoimmune-hormone connection. Connect: YouTube: Your Hormone Guru / Dr. Tara Scott Instagram: @hormonegurumd Website:drtarascott.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: 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 the hormone-autoimmune connection, please leave a 5-star review! For more information, please visit MyautoimmunemdMyAutoImmuneMD | Autoimmunity Redefined . 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 making changes to your hormone therapy. Individual results may vary.
April 13 · 47 min
Mold Illness & Mycotoxins: Complete Recovery Protocol from Naturopathic Expert
Dr. Jill Crista, mold illness expert, reveals her "Peel the Orange" 5-step recovery method: avoidance, fundamentals, protecting organs, repair, microbiome reset. She explains how mycotoxins stored in mitochondria cause chronic fatigue, why 50% recover just by leaving moldy environments, and her detox protocol using bioflavonoids (quercetin, astaxanthin), DHA (3-10g/day), and food-based binders (aloe, flax, greens) instead of cholestyramine. Testing strategies include VCS, urine mycotoxin (Vibrant), blood antibodies (MycoLab). Recovery typically takes 1.5 months per year of illness post-COVID adjustment. Key Takeaways 50% recover from mold by leaving environment Mycotoxins fat-soluble, stored in mitochondria causing fatigue All mycotoxins deplete mitochondrial function Food mold minimal—illness from indoor environment Binders: aloe, flax, chia, greens over cholestyramine Bioflavonoids first: quercetin (citrinin), astaxanthin (ochratoxin) DHA 3-10g/day protects membranes from mycotoxins Testing: VCS, mold allergy, urine, blood antibodies Treat mold + Lyme concurrently (natural medicine) Recovery: 1.5 months per year sick (post-COVID) Chapters & Timestamps 01:00 Where Mold Hides 03:00 Mycotoxins: Fat-Soluble Toxins 08:00 Made to Harm Living Things 13:00 Mitochondrial Disruption = Fatigue 14:00 Peel the Orange: 5 Steps 18:00 Bile is Secret Sauce: Binders 22:00 Bioflavonoids Before Binders 24:00 DHA: 3-10g/Day Protection 31:00 Testing Cluster Strategy 39:00 Treating Mold + Lyme Together Guest Details Dr. Jill Crista, ND — Naturopathic Doctor & Mold Expert Specializes: Mold, PANS/PANDAS, Lyme, concussion, post-COVID syndromes. Bestselling author, educator. "Peel the Orange" Method: 5-step protocol: avoidance, fundamentals, protecting, repair, fight/reset microbiomes. Key Insight: 50% recover by leaving moldy environment—body's wisdom heals. Recovery: 6-9 months to 2 years. Rule: 1.5 months per year sick. Connect: Website:DrCrista.com Questionnaire:drcrista.com/pages/questionnaire Books & Masterclasses:DrCrista.com Social: @drjillcrista (Instagram, YouTube, Facebook) 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.
April 6 · 21 min
ADHD, PANS, PANDAS & Autoimmune: Nervous System Dysregulation Explained
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, pioneering mental health expert and author of "It's Gonna Be OK," to reveal how chronic compounded stress drives nervous system dysregulation and fuels the rise of autoimmune disease. Dr. Roseann explains why "shopping cart diagnoses"—collecting labels without treating the root cause—keep patients stuck, and how regulating the nervous system through breathwork, neurofeedback, nutrition, and sleep unlocks the body's ability to heal. This conversation is a game-changer for anyone with autoimmune disease, PANS/PANDAS, ADHD, or mast cell activation who hasn't found answers despite trying everything. Key Takeaways Chronic stress = sympathetic dominance — your nervous system gets physically stuck Real or imagined stress triggers the same cortisol response — your body can't tell the difference 4-7-8 breathing (inhale 4, hold 7, exhale 8) is the fastest reset to parasympathetic state Use phone timers — minimum 3x daily breathwork to rewire nervous system Pick ONE strategy and do it consistently for 30 days before adding more 90% of brain detoxification happens during sleep — prioritize before midnight Remove 1-2 inflammatory foods first — overwhelm stops progress Neurofeedback over 40 sessions/6 months reveals underlying root causes 100% of complex chronic illness patients have unresolved trauma Small deposits daily beat weekend wellness — integrate, don't isolate Chapters & Timestamps 01:00 Chronic Stress = Sympathetic Dominance & Stuck Nervous System 02:00 "Shopping Cart Diagnoses" & Why Kids Are More Dysregulated 04:00 4-7-8 Breathwork: Fastest Way to Parasympathetic State 05:00 PMFT, Neurofeedback & Brain Tools for Nervous System Reset 06:00 Stress Hijacks Immunity: Rise of Autoimmune & Mast Cell Activation 07:00 Nervous System Dysregulation Affects Sleep, Gut & Hormones 09:00 Neurofeedback Success: From Impulsive to Regulated 11:00 Top 3 Strategies: Regulate, Diet & Sleep 12:00 90% of Brain Detox Happens During Sleep 15:00 Downtime, Workaholic Culture & Stress Deposits 18:00 100% of Complex Cases Have Trauma in Their Background 19:00 Programs, Podcast & Where to Find Dr. Roseann Guest Details Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, PhD Integrative Mental Health Expert, Author & Founder Credentials: Pioneered Brain Behavior Reset™ program. Founder of the Global Institute of Children's Mental Health. Author of It's Gonna Be OK and multiple books on integrative mental health. Top podcaster and one-to-one program ending 2026. Specializations: Nervous system dysregulation, ADHD, OCD, PANS/PANDAS, neurofeedback, autoimmune-mental health connection, trauma, neurodivergence, children & adult complex cases. Connect: Website: drroseann.com Podcast: Available on all platforms 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.
March 30 · 55 min
5G, WiFi & Smart Meters: Protecting Your Health from EMF Radiation
Show Notes Dr. Magda Havas, environmental toxicologist and Professor Emerita at Trent University, reveals how EMFs from 5G, WiFi, smart meters, and dirty electricity trigger chronic illness. Her groundbreaking research shows MS patients dramatically improved after installing dirty electricity filters, diabetics experienced blood sugar spikes from EMF exposure within 20 minutes, and voltage-gated calcium channels cause oxidative stress. She provides protection strategies: GS filters for outlets (readings below 50), Swiss Shield fabric, wired internet, avoiding LED lights, and shielding smart meters—essential for anyone with autoimmune disease or unexplained symptoms. Key Takeaways EMFs from 5G, WiFi, smart meters contribute to chronic illness MS symptoms improved with dirty electricity filters (GS/Green Wave) Diabetics: blood sugar spikes within 20 min of EMF exposure Heart palpitations, arrhythmias triggered by EMF radiation Dirty electricity filters: reduce readings below 50 LED/fluorescent lights produce dirty electricity—use incandescent Cell phones: never hold to head or store in bra/pocket Swiss Shield fabric blocks 90%+ radiation; Y-Shield paint for walls EHS precursors: concussions, mercury, Lyme, mold Voltage-gated calcium channels cause oxidative stress Chapters & Timestamps 02:00 What Are EMFs: Power Lines, 5G, Dirty Electricity 06:00 No Long-Term 5G Health Research 09:00 Heart Palpitations & Arrhythmias from EMFs 12:00 5G Millimeter Waves & Skin Penetration 15:00 Swiss Shield Fabric & Y-Shield Paint 17:00 Cell Phone Cancer Risk 20:00 MS Symptoms Reversed with Filters 26:00 GS Filters vs Green Wave Filters 29:00 Blood Sugar Spikes in Diabetics 32:00 LED Lights Produce Dirty Electricity 36:00 Electric Cars: High Magnetic Fields 39:00 Smart Meter Shielding Solutions 42:00 EHS Symptoms: Insomnia, Headaches, Fatigue 51:00 Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels Guest Details Dr. Magda Havas, BSc, PhD — Environmental Toxicologist & EMF Expert Position: Professor Emerita, Trent School of the Environment, Trent University, Ontario, Canada. 30+ years EMF research. Expertise: EMF hypersensitivity, dirty electricity, expert testimony in legal cases, advisor to NGOs/government agencies. Breakthrough Research: First to show MS symptoms reversed with dirty electricity filters. Documented diabetic blood sugar spikes from EMF (20-min response). Heart arrhythmias from cordless phone radiation. Connect: Website:MagdaHavas.com YouTube:YouTube.com/magdahavas Resources: TheRoseLab.com | ZoryGlaser.com | GlobalEMF.net Email:drmagdahavas@gmail.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: 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 the hormone-autoimmune connection, please leave a 5-star review! For more information, please visit . 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 making changes to your hormone therapy. Individual results may vary.
March 23 · 22 min
Traditional Chinese Medicine Secrets: Acupressure Points That Calm Autoimmune Flares
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nam Lee, licensed acupuncturist, herbalist, and author, to explore how Traditional Chinese Medicine can regulate the immune system, reduce chronic inflammation, and restore energy for autoimmune patients. Dr. Lee shares accessible acupressure techniques anyone can do at home—including Large Intestine 11 for autoimmune skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, and Stomach 36 for combating fatigue and boosting vitality. We discuss how TCM addresses autoimmune disease as a "wrong signal" in the body, treating root causes through personalized point selection, herbal medicine, breathwork, and small consistent lifestyle changes that create lasting healing. Key Takeaways Acupressure = acupuncture you can do at home — no needles required Large Intestine 11 (elbow crease) reduces autoimmune inflammation & skin flares Stomach 36 (below kneecap) is TCM's #1 point for fatigue and vitality TCM treats autoimmune disease as "wrong signals" needing personalized rebalancing Dampness in TCM = swollen, heavy, painful joints common in RA patients Acupuncture lowers cortisol and raises endorphins — backed by research Humming breathwork through the nose creates nitric oxide for better circulation Korean hand point stimulation activates brain function and fights fatigue Small, consistent changes create lasting autoimmune healing — not extreme overhauls Build your healthcare village — ask for help and stay open-minded Chapters & Timestamps 01:00 Acupressure vs. Acupuncture: Healing at Home 03:00 What to Expect at Your First Acupuncture Session 04:00 How Acupuncture Regulates Immune System & Inflammation 06:00 TCM Approach: Dampness, Heat & Personalized Autoimmune Care 08:00 Acupuncture for Fatigue & Brain Function 10:00 Key Points: Large Intestine 11 & Stomach 36 12:00 Herbs, Breathwork & Lifestyle for Resilience 15:00 Small Consistent Changes Create Big Results 16:00 Building Your Healthcare Village 18:00 Dr. Lee's Book: "Stop Calling Me Infertile" 20:00 Where to Find Dr. Nam Lee Guest Details Dr. Nam Lee, LAc — Licensed Acupuncturist, Herbalist & Author Credentials: Advanced training in Oriental Medicine & Integrative Care. Specializes in Korean-style acupuncture, herbal medicine, fertility, women's health, and autoimmune disease. Author of Stop Calling Me Infertile. Practice: Newport Beach, Orange County, California Connect: Instagram: @lee_acupuncture Book: Stop Calling Me Infertile — available now Website: https://www.leeacupuncture.com/. 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.