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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Trisha Pasricha, a Harvard-trained gastroenterologist who directs the Gut-Brain Research Lab at Beth Israel, to reveal why IBS isn't "all in your head" and how specialized antibody testing can uncover autoimmune attacks on gut neurons. We explore the IBS-fibromyalgia overlap, why one in three people develop IBS after infections, and her groundbreaking research showing smartphone scrolling in bathrooms increases hemorrhoid risk by 46%. Dr. Pasricha shares evidence-based treatments including peppermint oil and psyllium fiber while debunking probiotic myths, and explains why constipation may be an early Parkinson's warning sign. This conversation validates patients dismissed by doctors and proves these conditions have real pathology requiring collaborative care across specialties. Key TakeawaysIBS is NOT "all in your head"—pathology lives in the deep enteric nervous system where standard tests can't reach90% of gut-brain communication flows UPWARD through the vagus nerve, not downward from stressOne in three people who get gastroenteritis will develop IBS from "scarring" of gut neuronsThe Mayo Paraneoplastic Panel can detect autoimmune antibodies attacking gut neurons (specialized test)Many IBS patients also have fibromyalgia—treatments often overlap (SNRIs, peppermint oil, fiber)Psyllium fiber (25g women, 38g men daily) works for BOTH constipation and diarrhea—it's a "shapeshifter"Probiotics are NOT recommended by gastroenterology guidelines—feed your microbiome with fiber and fermented foods insteadSmartphone scrolling in the bathroom increases hemorrhoid risk by 46%—limit to 5 minutes maximumConstipation may be an early Parkinson's warning sign—the disease likely begins in the gutH. pylori is abnormally prevalent in Parkinson's patients and treating it can improve tremors by enhancing levodopa absorption Chapters & Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Dr. Trisha Pasricha & Gut-Brain Research 02:00 What Is IBS & Why It's Not "All in Your Head" 04:00 The Enteric Nervous System: Our "Second Brain" 07:00 The Autoimmune Connection to IBS 10:00 IBS-Fibromyalgia Overlap & Treatment Crossover 13:00 Mayo Paraneoplastic Panel: Testing for Autoimmune IBS 16:00 Getting Second Opinions & Finding Neuro-GI Specialists 19:00 Social Media Education: Benefits & Rabbit Holes 21:00 Evidence-Based Treatments: Peppermint Oil & Psyllium Fiber 26:00 The Truth About Probiotics: Not Recommended 29:00 Fiber Diversity & the Mediterranean Diet Connection 33:00 Groundbreaking Research: Smartphones & Hemorrhoids (46% Risk) 36:00 Parkinson's Disease Begins in the Gut 38:00 The GI-Neuro Parkinson's Clinic Model 42:00 H. Pylori Connection to Parkinson's & Rheumatic...

In this episode, Dr. Melissa Mondala sits down with Dr. Felice Gersh, an integrative OB-GYN, to explore why 80% of all autoimmune patients are women and how our two X chromosomes create a more robust immune system that can become overactive when hormones become imbalanced. Dr. Gersh explains the fascinating connection between leaky gut, hormonal dysfunction (PCOS, amenorrhea, menopause), and autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto's and rheumatoid arthritis, revealing how molecular mimicry causes antibodies against gut bacteria to cross-react with our own tissues. They discuss why rheumatologists often miss the root cause by only prescribing biologics that block immune responses without addressing leaky gut and hormone imbalances, and how early intervention with nutrition, stress management, sleep, and hormone balancing can reverse positive ANA antibodies and prevent full-blown autoimmune disease Key Takeaways80% of all autoimmune patients are female due to two X chromosomes with immune-related genes15% of genes on the "turned off" X chromosome stay active forever—almost all are immune-relatedWomen make more antibodies, have higher white blood cell counts, and mount stronger immune responsesEvery woman with hormonal dysfunction (PCOS, amenorrhea, menopause) develops gut dysbiosisLeaky gut allows bacteria and toxins to escape, triggering antibody production through molecular mimicryRheumatoid arthritis is linked to specific gut bacteria leaking through the intestinal barrierBiologics (Humira, Remicade) only block symptoms; they don't fix leaky gut or hormone imbalancesPositive ANA = pre-autoimmunity = leaky gut—early intervention can reverse itVegan diet high in fiber and polyphenols can reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain by 50% in one monthHormone balancing, gut repair, stress management, and nutrition work synergistically—it's all of the above Chapters & Timestamps01:00 Introduction: Dr. Felice Gersh on Women & Autoimmune Disease 01:30 Why Women Have More Robust Immune Systems 02:00 The Two X Chromosomes & Immune-Related Genes 02:30 15% of X Chromosome Genes Stay Active Forever 03:00 Women Make More Antibodies & Have Higher White Blood Counts 04:00 Estradiol & Progesterone's Role in Immune Function 04:30 Leaky Gut, Endotoxins & Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissue 05:00 PCOS, Amenorrhea & Menopause Always Cause Gut Dysbiosis 06:00 Molecular Mimicry: How Antibodies Attack Your Own Organs 06:30 Hashimoto's: The Most Common Autoimmune Disease in Women 07:00 Rheumatoid Arthritis Linked to Specific Gut Bacteria 08:00 Every Woman with Autoimmune Disease Has Leaky Gut 08:30 Biologics Block Symptoms, Not Root Causes 09:00 The Integrative Approach: Hormones, Gut & Low Dose Naltrexone 09:30 High Cortisol from Stress Causes Leaky Gut 10:00 Fiber, Polyphenols & Nurturing Your Gut Microbiome 10:30 Why Biologics Stop Working After 2-4 Years 11:00 Pre-Autoimmunity: Positive ANA Without Disease Yet 11:30 Reversing...

In this episode, I sat down with John Banta, a retired certified industrial hygienist with over 35 years of experience, who discovered mold was destroying his wife's health after she recovered completely during a camping trip, leading him to dedicate his career to becoming a "mold doctor" for buildings. John reveals how 1 in 5 brand new homes has mold before occupation, why killing mold actually makes it produce more biotoxins as a defense mechanism, and his revolutionary microfiber and soapy water technique that actually removes mold instead of spreading it. We discuss the connection between mold exposure and autoimmune conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue, how COVID-19 can trigger mold sensitivity in 24% of the population with HLA-positive genetics, and his groundbreaking pathways testing method to find hidden mold using peptide bonds. Key TakeawaysIf you smell mold, it's actively growing - mold only produces musty odors when wet1 in 5 brand new homes has mold before occupation due to construction practicesYou can't see mold until there are 1-10 million colony-forming units per square inchNever kill mold - it fights back by producing more biotoxins as a defense mechanismSoapy water (5 drops detergent in a quart) + microfiber cloths remove mold effectivelyVinegar doesn't work because "oil and vinegar don't mix" - you need detergent to emulsify lipids24% of people have HLA-positive genetics; COVID-19 can trigger mold sensitivity overnightConcrete slabs take almost a year to lose 90% of moisture - premature building causes moldDead mold still makes you sick - removal is essential, not just killing itAn ounce of prevention: catching mold early can save $45,000+ in remediation costs Chapters & Timestamps00:00 Opening Teaser & Introduction to John Banta 02:00 Where Mold Is Found: Beneficial Uses & Hidden Dangers 03:00 John's Personal Journey: His Wife's Mystery Illness 04:00 The Camping Trip That Changed Everything 05:00 It's Always About the Water 07:00 Mold Syndrome: Why Symptoms Vary So Much 10:00 Medical Schools Don't Teach About Mold & Autoimmunity 12:00 The Lead Poisoning Story & Daughter's Miracle 17:00 How to Determine If Your Home Has Mold 19:00 Clean Room Technology & Microfiber Innovation 23:00 Why Vinegar Doesn't Work & Soapy Water Does 25:00 Never Kill Mold: It Fights Back with Biotoxins 27:00 Hidden Wall Damage: The 32-Foot Leak Case 29:00 1 in 5 New Homes Have Mold Before Occupation 31:00 Concrete Slabs & the Year-Long Drying Problem 34:00 COVID-19 Triggers Mold Sensitivity in 24% of People 37:00 The Seared Steak Problem: Why Dehumidifiers Aren't Enough 40:00 Finding the Right Remediation...

In this episode, Dr. Melissa Mondala sits down with Dr. Sam Ko, board-certified emergency medicine physician and medical director at Reset Ketamine, to explore how ketamine therapy is helping the 50-70% of autoimmune patients struggling with depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. They discuss how ketamine resets hypersensitized pain receptors, reduces inflammatory markers like TNF-alpha and IL-6, influences the gut-brain connection, and provides real hope for conditions like fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, MCAS, and POTS. Dr. Ko shares success stories, introduces Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) as a complementary treatment, and reminds us that your struggle is real and there are evidence-based tools to help you reclaim functional living. Key Takeaways50-70% of autoimmune patients experience depression, anxiety, and central sensitization - there's a fascinating connection between autoimmune conditions and mood disordersKetamine resets hypersensitized pain receptors via NMDA receptors down the spinal cord, making it powerful for central sensitizationThe central nervous system and enteric nervous system share the same embryological origin (neuro crest), explaining the profound gut-brain connectionKetamine influences the gut microbiome, which in turn affects the central nervous system and moodExtended infusion protocols (80 minutes to 4 hours) are used for chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgiaKetamine reduces inflammatory markers including TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-10, helping to "turn down the volume" on overactive immune systemsStellate Ganglion Block (SGB) provides a "hardware reset" for the sympathetic nervous system, complementing ketamine's "software reset"Success is measured in functional improvements - getting out of bed, doing hobbies, walking 5 minutes daily - not running marathonsTeam-based care is essential, especially for patients on biologics and immunosuppressants - collaboration with rheumatologists and primary care is keyYour struggle is real, your body is wise - if a provider doesn't listen, find one who will Chapters & Timestamps00:00 Introduction: Ketamine for Autoimmune Depression, Anxiety & Pain 00:30 The Autoimmune-Mental Health Link: Why 50-70% Experience Both 01:00 Central Sensitization: Resetting Hypersensitized Pain Receptors via NMDA 02:30 Ketamine Beyond the ER: Treating MCAS, POTS & Complex Autoimmune Conditions 03:00 The Gut-Brain Connection: Embryology of Central & Enteric Nervous Systems 04:00 Serotonin in Gut & Brain: Why "Trust Your Gut" Is Literally True 04:30 How Ketamine Influences the Gut Microbiome & Central Nervous System 06:00 Success Stories: Fibromyalgia & Extended Infusion Protocols 07:00 Rheumatoid Arthritis: Visible Reduction in Joint Inflammation 07:30 Reducing Inflammatory Markers: TNF-alpha, IL-6, IL-10 08:30 Mind-Body Connection: Breaking the...

In Part 2 of this Autoimmune Alchemy conversation, Dr. Micah Yu is joined again by Dr. Robin Rose — family medicine physician, peptide specialist, and kidney health educator — to move from awareness into actionable healing strategies. This episode dives deep into peptides, bio-regulator therapies, and lifestyle foundations that support kidney repair in autoimmune disease. Dr. Rose explains how autoimmune inflammation damages kidney tubules, blood vessels, and mitochondria, and how targeted tools can help reverse epigenetic injury rather than simply slow decline. TimeStamps [0:00] — Part 2 Kickoff: Strategies, Peptides & Bio-Regulators [1:00] — “Renal Vulnerability Syndrome”: Autoimmune Impact on Kidneys (Quick Review) [3:00] — Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Kidney Protection: Polyphenols, Herbs, Teas, Toxins [9:00] — Protein, Carnivore Diets & Why Kidney Nutrition Must Be Personalized [12:00] — Sugar, Glycotoxins, Gluten/Grains & Practical Kidney-Friendly Protein Choices [19:00] — Peptides vs Bio-Regulators: What They Are + Epigenetics Explained [28:00] — Core Support Stack: Nutrients, Sleep/Circadian (Pineal), Carnosine + Clean Labels [35:00] — Best Peptides/Bio-Regulators for CKD & Autoimmunity + Sequencing + Wrap/Resources [45:00] — Where to Find Dr. Rose + Closing Key Takeaways Understand how autoimmune inflammation creates “renal vulnerability syndrome,” quietly damaging kidney tubules and mitochondria.Discover why kidney decline is largely an epigenetic injury — and how that means it can be modulated and improved.Learn the difference between peptides and bio-regulators, and why bio-regulators can directly influence gene expression.Explore anti-inflammatory nutrition strategies that protect kidneys, including polyphenols, herbs, teas, and cooking methods. In Part 2, Dr. Robin Rose reframes kidney disease not as a fixed diagnosis, but as a dynamic, modifiable process shaped by immune signaling, epigenetics, lifestyle, and targeted therapies. By combining peptides, bio-regulators, nutrition, and mindset, she offers a compassionate and science-based approach to healing that empowers patients rather than frightening them. This episode reminds us that recovery is not about perfection — it’s about informed, consistent choices that restore balance over time.

In this episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, Dr. Micah Yu sits down with Dr. Robin Rose — family medicine physician, peptide specialist, and kidney health educator — to uncover a critical but often overlooked topic: early kidney decline in autoimmune disease. Dr. Rose shares her powerful personal story of surviving kidney cancer, losing a kidney, and reversing what doctors told her was irreversible kidney failure. She explains why kidney damage often begins long before standard labs change, how autoimmune inflammation quietly stresses kidney tubules, blood vessels, and mitochondria, and why many patients are told to “wait” instead of act. This conversation reframes kidney health as something proactive, reversible, and deeply connected to autoimmune disease, gut health, lifestyle, peptides, and mindset — offering hope and actionable insight for patients at every stage. TimeStamps [0:00] — Introduction: Autoimmune Disease & the Forgotten Role of the Kidneys [1:20] — Dr. Robin Rose’s Story [7:40] — Why Kidney Damage Starts Before Labs Change [11:35] — How Autoimmune Disease Stresses Kidney Tubules, Blood Vessels & Mitochondria [17:17] — Diet, Protein, Acidity & Lifestyle Choices That Impact Kidney Health [25:20] — The Gut–Kidney–Immune Axis: Dysbiosis, Uremic Toxins & Inflammation [31:00] — Early Detection Tools, Binders & Proactive Kidney Protection [50:00] — Hope, Mindset & Setting the Stage for Part 2 (Peptides & Therapies) Key Takeaways Discover why autoimmune disease creates kidney vulnerability long before creatinine or GFR appear abnormal. Understand how inflammation, immune complexes, and vascular damage quietly stress kidney tubules and blood vessels. Learn why early kidney decline is often missed — and why waiting for “bad labs” delays prevention. Uncover the difference between kidney filtration (glomeruli) and reabsorption (tubules), and why tubules are damaged first. Explore how autoimmune conditions like lupus, Sjögren’s, RA, MS, and Hashimoto’s increase renal risk through inflammation and dysbiosis. Dr. Robin Rose’s story challenges the belief that kidney decline is inevitable. By understanding early warning signs, supporting the gut–immune–kidney axis, and shifting from fear to informed action, patients with autoimmune disease can protect their kidneys long before crisis occurs. Part 1 offers clarity, empowerment, and hope — reminding us that prevention begins with awareness and belief in healing.

In this episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, Dr. Melissa Mondala welcomes Dr. Peter Kan — board-certified chiropractor, functional neurologist, and functional medicine expert known for bridging the gut–brain–immune connection. Dr. Kan works extensively with Hashimoto’s, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjögren’s, mixed connective tissue disease, MS, and patients with “autoimmune of unknown origin.” In this conversation, he breaks down why autoimmune patients so often struggle with food sensitivities, inflammatory flares, neurological symptoms, and overlapping autoimmune conditions thattraditional medicine misses. He explains the difference between allergies, sensitivities, and intolerances, why “food can be medicine or poison,” and how immune pathways like T-reg cells, Th17 activation, NF-kB, and leaky gut shape the autoimmune experience. He also shares strategic supplements, lifestyle foundations, and a practical roadmap for people who are overwhelmed, undiagnosed, or stuck in flare cycles. TimeStamps [0:00] — Understanding the Gut–Brain–Immune Connection [1:40] — How Food Sensitivities Trigger Autoimmune Flares [3:27] — Why Autoimmune Symptoms Spread Throughout the Body [5:44] — Allergies vs. Sensitivities vs. Intolerances Explained [8:34] — Foundational Supplements for Reducing Inflammation [10:54] — T-Reg Cells, Glutathione & Immune Modulation [14:17] — Elimination Diets, Testing & Reintroductions [16:57] — Personalizing Your Autoimmune Nutrition Plan Key Takeaways Discover how food sensitivities ignite autoimmune flares by ramping up the immune system and triggering tissue inflammation. Understand why many patients have “autoimmune of unknown origin” long before receiving an official diagnosis. Explore the difference between allergies (IgE), sensitivities (IgG/IgA), and intolerances (enzyme-based) — and why each requires a different treatment approach. Learn how food reactions can show up as fatigue, brain fog, sinus issues, weight changes, joint pain, skin symptoms, or mood shifts — not just digestive problems. Uncover how regulatory T-cells work as the “brake pedal” of the immune system, and why supporting them helps quiet autoimmune activity and move toward remission. Dr. Peter Kan brings clarity to one of the most confusing and overwhelming parts of autoimmune disease: the relationship between food, inflammation, and immune dysregulation. His science-backed but practical approach helps patients understand why they react to so many foods, how to begin healing gut and immune pathways, and how to move toward remission through immune modulation — not fear or restriction. This conversation offers hope, direction, and a clear roadmap for anyone lost in the world of autoimmune flares.

Welcome to another episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, Dr. Micah Yu sits down with Dr. Kara Wada — board-certified allergist, immunologist, lifestyle medicine physician, Sjögren’s patient, and founder of The Immune Confidence Institute. Dr. Wada opens up about her long diagnostic journey with Sjögren’s, why so many patients are dismissed or misdiagnosed, and how clinical “gray zone” diseases like seronegative Sjögren’s, MCAS, dysautonomia, and chronic fatigue often fall through the cracks in modern medicine. She also shares the lifestyle changes, supplements, and clinical trial therapy (dazodalibep) that changed her health, plus the innovative lymph-node–targeted allergy treatment she now offers in her clinic. Time Stamps [0:00] — Welcome & Introduction [1:07] — Early Symptoms & Missed Red Flags [3:45] — Diagnosis Journey & Lab Findings [6:12] — What Sjögren’s Really Is [7:50] — Dryness Isn’t Always the First Symptom [9:26] — Misrouted Specialists & Delayed Diagnosis [9:50] — Full Symptom Breakdown [14:16] — Lifestyle Changes That Helped [15:30] — New Sjögren’s Drug Trial (Dazodalibep) [18:10] — Future Treatments & Seronegative Gap [19:39] — Supplements That Helped [23:14] — “Clinical Ghosts” & Why Patients Are Dismissed [27:17] — Rethinking Mast Cells & MCAS [29:06] — ISLIT Protocol (Lymph-Node Immunotherapy) [30:30] — Closing & Part 2 Teaser Key Takeaways Discover why Sjögren’s isn’t rare — only rarely diagnosed — and how normal labs can still hide the disease. Understand why dryness doesn’t always appear first and how neurological issues, fatigue, migraines, and POTS often come earlier. Learn how over-reliance on blood work leads doctors to dismiss patients whose symptoms don’t fit textbook patterns. Uncover the deep neurological involvement in Sjögren’s, including dizziness, orthostatic intolerance, and chronic headaches. Explore the lifestyle tools that helped Dr. Wada improve, including sleep optimization, stress management, and plant-forward nutrition. Autoimmune patients can be overlooked — even when the symptoms are loud and life-altering. Dr. Kara's perspective as both a...

In this episode of Autoimmune Alchemy, host Dr. Micah Yu speaks with Dr. Kelly McCann, an expert in internal medicine, functional medicine, and environmental medicine, about chronic illnesses and their root causes. Dr. McCann discusses the concept of total toxic load and how various factors such as mold exposure, chronic infections like Lyme disease, and environmental toxins contribute to complex chronic conditions. She explains the various symptoms and diagnostic challenges of these illnesses, particularly emphasizing the importance of early identification and personalized treatment. Dr. McCann also emphasizes the role of mind-body-spirit connection in the healing process and how trauma and emotional well-being can impact physical health. Additionally, the discussion covers hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), providing insights into their management and treatment. This episode serves as a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of chronic illnesses and how to navigate their complexity. Here are some time stamps to support you. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:25 Understanding Chronic Illnesses and Root Causes 02:08 The Concept of Total Load and Environmental Medicine 03:27 Mold and Mycotoxins: A Major Player 04:15 Chronic Infections and Their Impact 06:19 Environmental Toxins and Genetic Susceptibilities 07:36 Diagnosing and Treating Mold Toxicity 21:07 Mind-Body-Spirit Connection in Healing 23:27 Exploring Trauma and Emotional Healing 32:11 Energy Medicine and Self-Discovery 38:02 Lyme Disease and Co-Infections 39:48 A Family's Lyme Disease Journey 40:13 Understanding Lyme Disease Transmission 41:08 Divergent Views on Lyme Disease 44:08 Chronic Lyme and Functional Medicine 47:06 The Importance of Asking 'Why' in Medicine 54:03 Hypermobility and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome 01:07:29 Mast Cell Activation Syndrome Explained 01:15:48 Concluding Thoughts and Resources Uncover the truth behind chronic illnesses with Dr. Micah Yu and Dr. Kelly McCann. From Lyme disease to Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, this episode explores the root causes and innovative treatments for complex conditions. Don't miss this insightful conversation on Autoimmune Alchemy! #IntegrativeMedicine #PodcastLife

Women often first meet autoimmunity during hormonal transitions like perimenopause and menopause. In this conversation, in this episode, Dr. Melissa Mondala and Dr. Jennifer Roelands (OB-GYN, integrative and functional medicine) unpack how shifting estrogen and progesterone interact with the immune system, why the gut–brain–hormone axis matters for mood and symptoms, and what to do first if you are seeing new labs, new aches, or a metabolism that no longer plays by your old rules. You will hear practical ways to lower inflammation, protect bone and muscle, choose labs that actually guide care, and build “low-hanging fruit” habits that stick. Key takeaways Hormone transitions can “flip on” latent genes and unmask autoimmunity; gut health and hormone metabolism are tightly linked.Do not skip the gut: the estrobolome, serotonin production, barrier integrity, and antibodies formed in the gut influence thyroid and joint autoimmunity.Start small to beat overwhelm: stack easy “wins” such as step-ups, resistance bands, or brief “exercise snacks” while you build consistency.Protect bone and muscle: lift 2–3x weekly, add protein and fiber, and consider DEXA earlier than 65 to get a baseline.Labs that help: iron panel, vitamin D, CRP, fasting insulin, thyroid panel, and cycle-timed sex hormones; wearables or CGM can add useful data.Options exist: HRT is one path; omega-3s, fiber, magnesium (glycinate), curcumin, and targeted botanicals can also support symptoms and sleep.Perimenopause is more than hot flashes: watch for unusual signs like ear itching, body-odor changes, recurrent UTIs, libido shifts, or oral-health changes. Suggested chapters 00:00 Intro and guest background 00:26 Why autoimmunity often appears in perimenopause 00:29 Gut–hormone metabolism, estrobolome, neurotransmitters 00:31 Stress load and “low-hanging fruit” habit building 00:34 Muscle and bone loss, strength training that fits pain levels 00:36 HRT, DEXA baselines, and fracture risk context 00:39 Supplement staples: omega-3s, fiber, magnesium, curcumin 00:42 Weight and metabolism changes, personalized nutrition 00:44 Unusual symptoms of perimenopause 00:46 Early or premature menopause and risk profile 00:49 Finding the right clinician; advocating for labs 00:51 What to test and how to time hormones 00:53 Where to find Dr. Roelands and her practice Perimenopause is a whole-system transition. Pair smart medical care with gut support, resistance training, sleep, stress tools, and cycle-aware labs. Start with one easy win, get a baseline DEXA earlier, and build from there. The goal is not perfection. It is steady, sustainable progress that protects your brain, bones, and immune system. Host Bio: Dr. Melissa Mondala is a triple specialist in family medicine, lifestyle medicine, and integrative/primary care psychiatry. She is double board certified in family medicine and lifestyle medicine, completed her family medicine residency and Lifestyle Medicine Fellowship at Loma Linda University Health, and earned her MD from Chicago Medical School along with master’s degrees in Health Administration and Biomedical Science. Dr. Mondala is co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle in Newport Beach, where she provides direct primary care, integrative mental health, and lifestyle-based prevention for patients locally and via telehealth. She has served as core faculty in Preventive/Lifestyle Medicine at Loma Linda University and has contributed to national education in lifestyle medicine. She also co-hosts the Autoimmune Alchemy podcast with Dr. Micah Yu and leads the Integrative Mental Health Summit, bringing root-cause...

In this episode, Dr. Micah Yu welcomes Dr. Nisha Manek, integrative rheumatologist and author of Bridging Science and Spirit, for a wide-ranging conversation on where medicine is headed and why energy, the biofield, and conscious self-care belong beside conventional treatment.  Hear how immune dysregulation shows up across the body, why drugs alone rarely create remission, and how subtle-energy practices, fascia and meridian science, sleep, intention, and community can help people with autoimmune disease feel better and do more.  Key takeaways What “biofield” means in plain language, how it relates to meridians, fascia, and whole-body connectivity, and why energy is a missing “vital sign” in clinicWhy rising autoimmune rates suggest we need more than medications alone, and how subtle-energy work can complement standard care to move patients toward remissionPractical self-regulation: simple hand “circuit” placements to recharge, gentle movement such as tai chi or qigong, sleep, nutrition basics, and intention settingA clinician’s perspective on research limits for energy medicine and how physics concepts help translate ancient ideas into modern practicePatient empowerment: build your plan with your doctor, add safe energy practices, and lean on community to reduce overload and stick with healing habits Suggested chapters [00:00] Intro and guest background [02:00] From conventional training to integrative practice [05:00] Autoimmunity on the rise and environmental triggers [08:00] Beyond drugs: energy as the “missing mechanism” [11:00] The biofield as a vital sign [13:00] Meridians, chi, chakras, and a physics “umbrella” [15:00] Fascia as the body’s connective highway [20:00] A simple at-home hand circuit to recharge [29:30] The qigong headache story and what it implies [36:00] Medicine catching up, clinician burnout, patient agency [39:00] Where to find Dr. Manek and programs Autoimmune care improves when we pair smart conventional treatment with practices that restore the body’s energy and calm the nervous system. Start where you are: sleep, nutrition, gentle movement, and a simple daily recharge practice. Use your medical team for diagnostics and safety, then add community for support and momentum. The goal is not perfection. It is steady, sustainable progress toward remission and a fuller life. Guest resources Dr. Manek’s Website: https://www.nishamanekmd.com/Get Dr. Manek’s Book: Bridging Science and Spirit: https://www.nishamanekmd.com/book Host Bio: Dr. Micah Yu is a board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional care with lifestyle and nutrition to help people reverse inflammation and live well with autoimmune disease. He is board certified in rheumatology, internal medicine, and lifestyle medicine, completed his residency and rheumatology fellowship at Loma Linda University, and earned his MD from Chicago Medical School along with master’s degrees in biomedical sciences and health care administration. He also completed fellowship training in integrative medicine at the University of Arizona. Dr. Yu co-founded Dr. Lifestyle in Newport Beach, California, where he sees patients locally and via telemedicine. He also co-hosts the Autoimmune Alchemy podcast with Dr. Melissa Mondala, bringing evidence, empathy, and practical tools to a global audience. His clinical perspective is informed by his own journey with autoimmune disease and by the results he has seen when patients pair targeted...

When Infections Inflame the Mind: Lyme, MS, and the Gut–Brain Connection Dr. Darin Ingels connects the dots between chronic infections (like Lyme), the gut–brain axis, and neuroinflammation—explaining “leaky gut/leaky brain,” vagus-nerve signaling, mast-cell activation, and why mood, brain fog, and sleep often shift with immune activity. He shares practical supports—from joy practices to potent, targeted herbs—and how to vet supplement quality for safety and results. Key takeaways: Leaky gut and “leaky brain” often travel together; restoring gut function improves brain function. The vagus nerve can transmit gut signals that open the blood–brain barrier and drive neuro-inflammation. In Lyme and MS, immune cross-reactivity and mast-cell activation can inflame brain and nerves, contributing to anxiety, depression, OCD, and brain fog. Joy and regulation tools matter: music, humor, nature, and realistic activity resets help shift mental state on hard days. Herbal medicine is multi-targeted: combinations can modulate inflammation, immunity, hormones, and circulation—often at low doses with strong effects. Adaptogens to balance stress/cortisol: eleuthero (Siberian ginseng), rhodiola, holy basil, Ashwagandha—choose by symptom pattern (e.g., “tired-and-wired”). Sleep supports: lemon balm, chamomile, passionflower, kava, California poppy; nutrients like magnesium and 5-HTP/L-tryptophan help with staying asleep. Pain/inflammation options: highly bioavailable curcumin, Boswellia (frankincense), white willow bark, and devil’s claw (Harpagophytum). Quality matters: look for GMP certification and third-party testing; request Certificates of Analysis; be cautious with heat-exposed or counterfeit online products. Forms and safety: tinctures, capsules, teas, glycerites—many herbs are GRAS with low toxicity when sourced and dosed correctly. Conclusion: Integrative mental health isn’t brain-only; it’s gut, immune, nerves, and daily rhythms working together. With clearer roots (infection, mast cells, barrier integrity) and practical tools (tailored herbs, joyful resets, vetted supplements), you can calm neuro-inflammation and support steadier mood, sleep, and cognition, step by step. Host Bio: Dr. Melissa Mondala is a triple specialist in family medicine, lifestyle medicine, and integrative/primary care psychiatry. She is double board certified in family medicine and lifestyle medicine, completed her family medicine residency and Lifestyle Medicine Fellowship at Loma Linda University Health, and earned her MD from Chicago Medical School along with master’s degrees in Health Administration and Biomedical Science. Dr. Mondala is co-founder of Dr. Lifestyle in Newport Beach, where she provides direct primary care, integrative mental health, and lifestyle-based prevention for patients locally and via telehealth. She has served as core faculty in Preventive/Lifestyle Medicine at Loma Linda University and has contributed to national education in lifestyle medicine. She also co-hosts the Autoimmune Alchemy podcast with Dr. Micah Yu and leads the Integrative Mental Health Summit, bringing root-cause strategies for anxiety, mood, and brain health to a wider audience. Her approach blends diagnostics and conventional care with nutrition, sleep, movement, stress tools, and community to help patients reduce inflammation and build long-term resilience.

Summary In this in-depth interview, Dr. Micah Yu speaks with Dr. Ty Vincent, founder of Low Dose Immunotherapy (LDI), about his groundbreaking work in retraining the immune system. Dr. Vincent shares his journey from conventional medicine to developing LDI, explains how it differs from traditional allergy therapies and homeopathy, and reveals the remarkable outcomes he’s seen in patients with autoimmune and chronic illnesses. Together, they explore real-world success stories, the science of molecular mimicry, and why focusing on mechanisms rather than diagnoses may be the future of medicine. Key Takeaways Discover how Dr. Vincent’s path from family medicine to integrative care led him to create LDI.Learn the difference between Low Dose Allergen Immunotherapy (LDA) and Low Dose Immunotherapy (LDI).Explore how LDI addresses immune tolerance rather than suppression, and why it works for conditions beyond allergies.Hear case studies of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, Lyme disease, Hashimoto’s, psoriasis, and more who experienced remission or dramatic improvements.Understand the concept of molecular mimicry and its role in autoimmunity.See how LDI provides a safer, low-risk alternative to lifelong immunosuppressive drugs.Gain insight into Dr. Vincent’s ongoing innovations, including potential breakthroughs for type 1 diabetes. This conversation highlights a profound shift in how we can view and treat chronic illness. Instead of suppressing the immune system, Dr. Vincent’s work with LDI shows what’s possible when we restore tolerance and reprogram the body’s natural defenses. It’s an eye-opening discussion that offers hope for anyone struggling with autoimmunity or unexplained chronic conditions. Host Bio: Dr. Micah Yu is a board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional care with lifestyle and nutrition to help people reverse inflammation and live well with autoimmune disease. He is board certified in rheumatology, internal medicine, and lifestyle medicine, completed his residency and rheumatology fellowship at Loma Linda University, and earned his MD from Chicago Medical School along with master’s degrees in biomedical sciences and health care administration. He also completed fellowship training in integrative medicine at the University of Arizona. Dr. Yu co-founded Dr. Lifestyle in Newport Beach, California, where he sees patients locally and via telemedicine. He also co-hosts the Autoimmune Alchemy podcast with Dr. Melissa Mondala, bringing evidence, empathy, and practical tools to a global audience. His clinical perspective is informed by his own journey with autoimmune disease and by the results he has seen when patients pair targeted therapies with nutrition, sleep, movement, and stress resilience. Website: https://myautoimmunemd.com/

CIRS, Mold, and Autoimmunity: Getting Off the Inflammation Roller Coaster This is an encouraging and educational interview for anyone navigating Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) Dr. Melissa Mondala sits down with Jenny Johnson, a CIRS guide and community-builder, to unpack how biotoxin exposure from water-damaged buildings, mold, bacteria, and Lyme can drive chronic inflammation that mimics or even triggers autoimmune disease. They cover what to look for, how to differentiate CIRS from conditions like lupus, MS, and RA, and why environmental cleanup, sleep, nervous system support, and community are foundational. Jenny also shares moving recovery stories and practical ways families can pace healing without burning out. CIRS is a chronic inflammatory response to biotoxins the body cannot easily clear. Symptoms can mirror lupus, MS, and RA, and CIRS may coexist with or trigger autoimmune flares. Taking a careful timeline, targeted labs, and sometimes imaging helps sort out what to treat first. Key takeaways Learn what CIRS is and how it overlaps with autoimmunity.Discover why “remove the exposure” is step #1.Cleaning up or leaving a water-damaged environment reduces daily biotoxin load. Explore "pairing" detox strategies so the immune system can calm and autoimmune symptoms become more manageable. Learn the “brain on fire and brain on ice” model.Discover the early anchors of recovery.Learn why community speeds healing.Discover hope through real-world stories. CIRS can cause anxiety, depression, panic, rage, and cognitive issues like brain fog and executive dysfunction. Having a coach or community to be your “borrowed brain” reduces overwhelm while you recover. Prioritize sleep and simple nervous system supports. Add nutrition shifts toward anti-inflammatory eating, then layer movement as capacity returns. Passive vagus-nerve supports can help when you are too depleted to do more. Jenny’s CIRS Healing Collective (https://cirshealingcollective.mn.co/landing) meets weekly to share practical tips, host guest experts, and reduce loneliness. Safe, validating connection supports the parasympathetic nervous system and helps people stay on the “healing track.” Jenny shares recoveries in her family from Lyme and mold injury, and a child’s neurodivergent symptoms easing after addressing environmental causes. Parents are encouraged to keep pressing for answers. Conclusion CIRS is fixable, and addressing it can dramatically change the trajectory of autoimmune symptoms. Start with a solid history, test what matters, remove exposures, and anchor sleep and nervous system care. Do less, but do it on the right track. Most of all, do not do this alone. Community and a clear plan make the path lighter and faster. Connect with Jenny Johnson Simplified Wellness Designs: https://simplifiedwellnessdesigns.com The CIRS Healing Collective https://cirshealingcollective.mn.co/landing Jenny Johnson is a leading expert in Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) and complex environmental illness. She is a Shoemaker Certified Coach, and drawing on years of clinical research and

In this groundbreaking conversation, Dr. Micah Yu speaks with retired rheumatologist Dr. Alfred Miller, who spent 40 years in practice and training at the Mayo Clinic. Dr. Miller shares his personal journey of discovering how Borrelia infections (often mislabeled as Lyme disease) may underlie many neurological and autoimmune conditions. From misdiagnosis in academic institutions to overlooked testing protocols, he reveals why conventional approaches often miss the mark — and how proper testing, treatment, and even unconventional therapies like bee venom and stem cells can change lives. Key Takeaways Why Borrelia infection is a “great imitator,” often misdiagnosed as ALS, MS, dementia, and other chronic diseasesThe flaws in current Lyme disease testing — and why omitting bands 31 & 34 on the Western blot leads to false negativesHow Borrelia’s 28-day reproductive cycle makes short-term antibiotic treatment ineffectiveThe role of cyst-busting medications and pulsed antibiotic protocols in treatmentCase studies: how Dr. Miller’s daughter-in-law lived seven years beyond a 4-month ALS prognosis after proper treatmentWhy Dr. Miller believes autoimmune disease is a mislabel, and many cases are driven by BorreliaFascinating integrative therapies, including bee venom’s ability to eradicate Borrelia and stem cell use in repairing neurodegenerative damageThe importance of specialized labs like IGeneX (U.S.) and ArminLabs (Europe) for accurate tick-borne disease testing The link betweenBorrelia infections, which cause Lyme disease, and autoimmune disorders is a complex and evolving area of medical research. A Borrelia infection can trigger autoimmune responses in genetically predisposed individuals through several mechanisms, including molecular mimicry and the induction of chronic inflammation. The resulting immune dysfunction can lead to the development of specific autoimmune conditions, or it can produce symptoms that closely mimic those of autoimmune diseases.  If you’ve ever wondered about the root causes of autoimmune disease, dementia, ALS, or rheumatoid arthritis, this episode will open your eyes to a different paradigm of medicine. Host Bio: Dr. Micah Yu is a board-certified integrative rheumatologist who blends conventional care with lifestyle and nutrition to help people reverse inflammation and live well with autoimmune disease. He is board certified in rheumatology, internal medicine, and lifestyle medicine, completed his residency and rheumatology fellowship at Loma Linda University, and earned his MD from Chicago Medical School along with master’s degrees in biomedical sciences and health care administration. He also completed fellowship training in integrative medicine at the University of Arizona. Dr. Yu co-founded Dr. Lifestyle in Newport Beach, California, where he sees patients locally and via telemedicine. He also co-hosts the Autoimmune Alchemy podcast with Dr. Melissa Mondala, bringing evidence, empathy, and practical tools to a global audience. His clinical perspective is informed by his own journey with autoimmune disease and by the results he has seen when patients pair targeted therapies with nutrition, sleep, movement, and stress resilience. Website: https://myautoimmunemd.com/