The Inflammation Investigator: Chronic Illness & Autoimmune

Elizabeth Yarnell hosts Dr. Tricia Pingel, who shares her journey into specializing in adrenal fatigue. They explore the function of the adrenal glands, the stages of adrenal dysfunction, the connection to inflammation. Dr. Pingel explains how to control adrenal responses through perspective and meditation, and the impact of technology on stress. They discuss recognizing adrenal burnout in busy professionals and how hormonal imbalances affect inflammation. Dr. Pingel offers strategies for improving adrenal function with nutrition, exercise, supplements, and mindset, emphasizing boundaries and self-care.

Elizabeth Yarnell delves into the world of plant medicine with Dr. Heather Paulson, exploring the potential of Ayahuasca and other Amazonian plants in treating chronic inflammation and autoimmune conditions. Dr. Paulson shares her experiences at Hampoi House in Peru, discussing the integration of ancestral traditions with modern science. They examine the healing properties of Ayahuasca, Bobinsana, and other plant medicines, while highlighting the importance of safety, dietary restrictions, and community in the healing process. The conversation also touches on epigenetics, trauma, and the role of ceremonial practices. Reflections on legal challenges and the future of plant medicine tourism conclude the episode.

Elizabeth Yarnell welcomes Ashley Koff, RD, who shares her insights into weight health and hormones. They discuss the significance of GLP-1 and GIP hormones, distinguish between "weight loss" and "weight health", and debunk a popular hydration goal with a unique hose vs. sponge analogy. The discussion critiques the "calories in vs. calories out" equation and highlights the connection between weight health and inflammation. Ashley discusses the concept of "infobesity" and misleading food advertisements, offering practical resources in her new book, "Your Best Shot."

Elizabeth Yarnell introduces Ocean Robbins and they explore how his family background as Baskin' and Robbins ice cream led to his passion for clean eating and clean foods, and ultimately to the million-member-strong Food Revolution Network. They explore the network's core message, emphasizing the significance of GMOs, glyphosate, and their impact on the American diet. Ocean shares insights into his current projects and future aspirations of raising awareness of the health effects of the industrialized food complex. The discussion addresses nutritional concerns and offers resources for listeners seeking to make healthier food choices. The episode concludes with encouragement to listeners to consider the implications of their dietary choices.

Elizabeth Yarnell introduces Ellen Daulerio who shares a unique health perspective from her time in Japan. Ellen discusses her health challenges after returning to the US and how neuroplasticity aided her recovery. The episode discusses chronic stress physiology, chronic illness as a repeated memory, and the emotional impact on physical health. Ellen highlights the importance of safety signals, the influence of internal stories, and shares a simple exercise for managing pain and anxiety. The discussion covers the pitfalls of a "fix it" mindset, offering strategies to soften it, and concludes with insights on thriving versus surviving.

Elizabeth Yarnell and Dr. Darin Ingels discuss natural treatments and therapies for Lyme disease, allergies, and mast cell activation. They talk about the unique characteristics, diagnostic challenge of Lyme's Disease, and the importance of recognizing symptoms even when testing is negative. Dr. Ingles shares his treatment approach, including alternative therapies and herbal remedies. They also explore desensitization therapies for allergies, such as "low dose allergy therapy", and their role in reducing inflammation. The episode touches on environmental chemicals, food sensitivities, and lifestyle changes, offering advice for those with Lyme disease.

Join Elizabeth Yarnell and Cynthia Thurlow as they explore a blend of traditional medicine and holistic health for menopause. Cynthia discusses her medical background and examines how the microbiome and immune system evolve with age. Discover insights on the impact of childhood events on autoimmune risk, the nervous system's balance, and hormones' role in mood and immunity. Topics include gut health, stress management, and pelvic floor therapy. The episode also covers inflammaging, immunosenescence, hormone therapy, and cholesterol management in women. Cynthia's book on stress, trauma, and bone health is highlighted.

Elizabeth Yarnell welcomes Chef Laurie Gauguin to discuss her journey from health struggles to becoming a professional chef and cookbook author. Chef Laurie shares insights on cooking for elimination diets, challenges of becoming a professional chef, and how firsthand experience in working with food restrictions shaped her cookbook. Topics include sourcing clean foods, white labeling, and ingredient changes. Laurie highlights recipe categories focused on accessibility and family inclusion. They discuss the emotional empowerment of managing restricted diets. The episode concludes with where to find Chef Laurie and her cookbook.

Elizabeth Yarnell is joined by health coach Adrienne Scharli, who shares her journey with multiple sclerosis, detailing her symptoms, diagnosis, and subsequent episodes. The discussion includes the impact of drug company influences and the effects of steroid treatments. Adrienne shares her experiences with nutritional management of MS, referencing Dr. Terry Walls' protocol, and discusses her four pillars of health, which include movement, grounding, and mental health strategies.

Many parents of children with autism or developmental delays feel stuck between conflicting advice. One provider focuses on behavior, another suggests waiting, and meanwhile the daily struggles with sleep, digestion, picky eating, emotional regulation, and learning continue. In this conversation, Amber Brooks shares why inflammation and gut health often show up alongside developmental concerns. She explains how symptoms across sleep, digestion, immune stress, and behavior may be connected and why looking at the whole child helps parents make clearer, more confident decisions. This episode gives parents a deeper understanding of what may be happening beneath the surface, without blame, pressure, or overwhelming medical language.

Elizabeth Yarnell welcomes Dr. Neetu Sharma, a kidney health expert, to explore the intersection of metabolic health and autoimmune conditions. Dr. Sharma shares her holistic approach to managing metabolic functions and their impact on chronic diseases, including kidney disease. The discussion covers the role of metabolic syndrome in autoimmune conditions, cardiovascular complications, and the use of functional genomics in kidney disease management. They emphasize the importance of lifestyle, diet, and hydration, while considering the effects of processed foods, environmental toxins, and water quality. Dr. Sharma also addresses nutrient deficiencies and preventative measures for kidney health, comparing functional medicine with conventional nephrology.

Elizabeth Yarnell welcomes Bonnie Ryckova, who shares insights on body alignment and inflammation. They focus on myofascial release, body strain, and biomechanics. The discussion delves into how misalignment contributes to inflammation and the role of fascia in the body as well as myofascial release therapy. Practical advice is shared on fascia visualization, release practices, and breathing techniques for rib cage expansion. They address approaches to whole-body pain and offer exercises for better alignment.

Elizabeth Yarnell welcomes health coach Deepak Saini, who shares the emotional and lifestyle changes that work to transform his clients from being stuck to surging forward in life. They discuss the importance of integrating mobility and flexibility in health programs, and Saini's TIME methodology. The conversation addresses the challenges clients face in integrating emotional with physical health. #healthcoach #emotionalhealth