Episode #56: Part 3 - Functional Medicine's Role in Neurodegenerative Care

About the Guest(s):

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a distinguished figure in the field of functional health. Known for her dedication to improving healthcare outcomes, she hosts "Functional Health Radio," which focuses on contemporary health challenges and innovative solutions. She has an extensive healthcare background, including specialties in cardiology, neurology, biofeedback, and nutritional biochemistry. Her passion for empowering individuals to realize their full potential positions her as a leading voice for transformative health practices.

Dr. Laura Standridge is an engaged and knowledgeable mother of a child with BPAN (Beta-Propeller Protein-Associated Neurodegeneration). She collaborates with Dr. Kristin Hieshetter on the Functional Health Radio podcast to share insights on managing neurodegenerative conditions through innovative dietary, therapeutic, and technological interventions. Her training, which includes clinical expertise and use of biofeedback and mitochondrial devices, offers a valuable perspective on caring for children with complex health needs.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Functional Health Radio, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter dives deep into the alarming statistics surrounding declining U.S. life expectancy and the uptick in chronic conditions among children, sparking discussions on healthcare spending and health optimization. The episode progresses with an exploration of BPAN (Beta-Propeller Protein-Associated Neurodegeneration) and the intricacies of managing this rare neurodegenerative disorder through strategic dietary choices and advanced therapeutic interventions. A special focus is placed on addressing iron accumulation in the brain and the growing trend of neurodevelopmental conditions influenced by environmental toxins.

Dr. Hieshetter, alongside guest Dr. Laura , elaborates on strategies to reduce iron intake, utilize mitochondrial support, and implement innovative therapies such as biofeedback devices and low-level lasers to promote brain health. A moving discussion about Dr. Laura son, Laird unveils practical implementations of technology-aided therapies in clinical settings. Through these discussions, the episode underscores the vital roles of therapeutic collaboration and continued parental involvement in treating neurodegenerative disorders. Essential references to books like "The Iron Curse" by Dr. Christy Sutton and devices aiding neurodevelopment offer an enlightening perspective on progressive healthcare.

Key Takeaways:

• Iron Management in BPAN: Limiting iron intake is crucial for managing BPAN, particularly avoiding high-iron foods and choosing suitable alternatives.
• Innovative Therapies: Utilizing devices such as TENS units, Resimax, and Erconia lasers can substantially aid in treating neurodegenerative conditions by enhancing cellular energy and brain function.
• Environmental Toxin Awareness: Reducing exposure to environmental toxins like PFAS is critical in managing and mitigating neurodevelopmental disorders.
• Integrative Health Interventions: Combining chiropractic, neurology, and nutritional insights leads to more comprehensive treatment approaches for complex health conditions.
• Power of Movement: Ensuring movement, even passive, in children with developmental challenges plays a vital role in maintaining brain health and function.

Notable Quotes:

1. "We are walking around in the most amazing, intelligent, responsive, adapting, and aware system in the world, the human you." — Dr. Kristin Hieshetter
2. "Everything you put in that kid's body is going to immediately help or immediately harm that child." — Dr. Kristin Hieshetter
3. "If you're interested in learning more about that iron and what is happening, 'The Iron Curse' by Dr. Christy Sutton is amazing." — Dr. Kristin Hieshetter
4. "His typical BPAN trajectory is not happening with her son because we're doing so many other things." — Dr. Kristin Hieshetter
5. "The neat thing about the continued quest for knowledge is that you stack in all these other things because you know there's going to be things in there that can help that patient." — Dr. Kristin Hieshetter

Resources:

• Dr. Christy Sutton's Book: [The Iron Curse](Not provided in the transcript)
• Dr. William Davis' Books: "Undoctored" and "Wheat Belly Diet"
• David Perlmutter's Book: "Grain Brain"
• Erconia Lasers: Erconia Medical (unprovided in transcript)
• Functional Health Mastery Group
• Device and Therapy: Forebrain headsets, TENS units, Resimax, and Kirtan Kriya audio meditations

Listeners are encouraged to tune into Functional Health Radio to delve deeper into essential topics related to health innovation and management and to stay informed about forthcoming episodes packed with insightful discussions and expert perspectives.