The Root Cause Medicine Podcast

James Greenblatt explores the evolving science of low-dose lithium as a neuroprotective intervention — highlighting its potential to prevent, slow, and even reverse cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease. He emphasizes that safe, nutritional lithium (2-10 mg) can support brain health by reducing neuroinflammation, promoting neuroregeneration, and stabilizing mood—without the risks associated with pharmaceutical doses. Clinicians are encouraged to assess lithium status through hair mineral analysis, monitor thyroid and kidney function, and consider environmental and dietary influences on endogenous lithium levels. By integrating low-dose lithium into a comprehensive, individualized care plan—including lifestyle modifications and targeted testing—practitioners can leverage this simple mineral to support mental clarity, impulsivity regulation, and long-term cognitive resilience.

James Greenblatt explores the evolving science of low-dose lithium as a neuroprotective intervention — highlighting its potential to prevent, slow, and even reverse cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease. He emphasizes that safe, nutritional lithium (2-10 mg) can support brain health by reducing neuroinflammation, promoting neuroregeneration, and stabilizing mood—without the risks associated with pharmaceutical doses. Clinicians are encouraged to assess lithium status through hair mineral analysis, monitor thyroid and kidney function, and consider environmental and dietary influences on endogenous lithium levels. By integrating low-dose lithium into a comprehensive, individualized care plan—including lifestyle modifications and targeted testing—practitioners can leverage this simple mineral to support mental clarity, impulsivity regulation, and long-term cognitive resilience.

True longevity requires metabolic flexibility, but how can we help our clients get there? This episode previews personalized metabolic health and longevity strategies from Dr. Rob Downey and Monique Class, presenters at Fullscript Forward 2025. Dr. Downey discusses how metabolic phenotyping, stress/HRV context, and GI patterns can inform evaluation, while Monique describes low-dose (microdosed) GLP-1 approaches, titration by response, and gradual tapering within lifestyle-first care model help them achieve impactful results for their clients. The conversation explores objective monitoring (labs, body composition), muscle-preserving movement, and structured workflows that may help patients sustain progress after medication changes. This episode is for informational and educational purposes only.

This episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast explores how the 2025 GLP-1 prescribing advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society can act as a catalyst for whole-person metabolic care—rather than just symptom management. Lara Zakaria, IFMCP, pharmacist and functional medicine practitioner, breaks down the new consensus guidelines and highlights opportunities to integrate nutrition counseling, strength training, and lab monitoring to support muscle preservation, nutrient adequacy, and patient safety. You’ll hear Lara’s practical approach—starting with screening for eating disorders and nutrient status before prescribing—and learn how to design workflows that make guideline implementation realistic in busy clinical settings. Providers will leave with evidence-informed strategies to improve patient outcomes, minimize side effects, and support sustainable behavior change around GLP-1 therapy.

This episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast takes a deep dive into postpartum care—challenging the idea that one six-week checkup is enough. Serena Saeed-Winn, CNM, WHNP, IBCLC, shares how earlier postpartum visits may help identify concerns such as thyroid changes, support lactation comfort through therapeutic breast massage and lymphatic techniques, and guide gentle scar care for improved comfort and pelvic floor recovery. You’ll also hear insights on hormonal shifts, nutrient needs, and postpartum mental health considerations—plus practical strategies to engage partners and build collaborative care teams. Providers will leave with actionable, evidence-informed ideas to better support families during this critical transition.

In this episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Kate Kresge welcomes Dr. Asare Christian, MD, a pain medicine and rehabilitation specialist, to explore the complex physiology of migraines and how a root-cause or functional medicine approach can transform treatment. They discuss the various triggers, including hormonal fluctuations, gut health, inflammation, and environmental toxins, as well as innovative natural therapies, supplements, and device options that empower patients to take control of their headache management. This conversation offers a comprehensive view of migraine care beyond conventional medications, emphasizing education, prevention, and personalized strategies for lasting relief.

In this episode, Dr. Kate Kresge welcomes Dr. Christy Evans, an OB/GYN with a passion for functional women’s health. They discuss how pregnancy transforms every body system, the importance of a comprehensive lifespan approach to women's health, and the innovative methods Dr. Christy uses at Almond OB/GYN. She shares her journey from accountant to physician, the significance of addressing root causes behind common symptoms, and how holistic care can optimize vitality and long-term health. Plus, insights into postpartum recovery, PCOS, and practical strategies to support women at every stage of life.

In this episode, Dr. Kate Kresge is joined by Dr. Ellen Vora to explore holistic approaches to anxiety beyond physiological root causes. They discuss how mindful movement, play, connection, and emotional regulation—such as cry therapy—can serve as powerful tools in managing true anxiety. Emphasizing the importance of integrating mind, body, and spirit, this conversation offers practical strategies for clinicians and individuals looking to deepen their understanding and treatment of anxiety.

In this episode, Dr. Kate Kresge welcomes Dr. Eric Viegas back to discuss the often-overlooked details surrounding the quality and safety of omega-3 supplements. While omega-3s are celebrated for their benefits in cardiovascular health, inflammation, and cognition, contamination and oxidation can undermine their efficacy and even pose health risks. They explore the pivotal role of rigorous testing, manufacturing standards, and how practitioners can guide patients to choose high-quality, safe omega-3 products in a landscape filled with variable quality claims.

In this episode of the Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Kate Kresge interviews Kristin Oja, DNP, founder of STAT Wellness, one of the first clinics in the U.S. to combine functional medicine and movement under one roof. Kristin shares her remarkable journey from personal trainer to nurse practitioner to entrepreneur—growing STAT from backyard bootcamps into a thriving multi-location practice redefining modern healthcare. Kristin dives into why muscle mass is a vital sign, how data and personalization are at the heart of STAT’s model, and what it takes to build a clinic that truly supports patients and staff. From lab testing and team culture to scaling with integrity, this episode is both inspiring and tactical—especially for practitioners looking to chart their own course in functional medicine.