#77: Star Edwards - Understanding Tiny Health: Advanced Microbiome Testing for Every Age and Stage of Life

In this episode of the IRH Clinician’s Corner, IRH lead practitioner Sara Fields sits down with Star Edwards, Healthcare Practice Director at Tiny Health, for an enlightening conversation about the evolution of gut health diagnostics—especially in pediatrics, but with insights spanning all ages. From understanding key differences between pediatric and adult microbiomes to exploring innovative metrics like HMO digestion and inflammatory markers, Sara Fields and Star Edwards make this complex data approachable, actionable, and relevant.

 

In this interview, we discuss:  

• The origins of Tiny Health and what sets them apart from other microbiome testing
• The importance of first 1,000 days for immune and neurodevelopment
• Tiny Health’s suite of tests
• Comparing whole genome sequencing to other methods of testing (like PCR)
• Key results categories/metrics and examples of markers unique to Tiny Health
• Clinical applications and insights
  
  

The Clinician’s Corner is brought to you by the Institute of Restorative Health.

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Connect with Star Edwards/Tiny Health:

Website: https://www.poweredbytiny.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/star-edwards/

 

For practitioners looking to open an account with Tiny Health and order test kits, go to https://www.poweredbytiny.com/practitioners

 

Use discount code IRH2025 to receive $50 off your first Gut Health or PRO Gut Health test 

For more resources, including sample reports, research, report walkthroughs, and interpretation guides: https://www.poweredbytiny.com/resources

 

Timestamps: 

00:00 Passion for Microbiome and Nutrition

09:06 "Microbiome's Role in Early Development"

11:36 HMO Digestion and Infant Health

20:23 "Functions: The Frontier of Microbiome"

21:32 Microbiome Functions and Health Connections

30:00 Microbiome Patterns and Health Insights

34:36 Microbiome Differences Across Ages

42:08 "LPS: Gut Inflammation Explained"

47:59 "Tiny Health's Key Insights"

50:03 Microbiome Balance Through Testing

58:40 "H. Pylori Testing Advice"

01:02:02 Personalized Microbiome Testing Benefits

Speaker bio: 

Star is a former WIC high-risk dietitian and has helped her own clients in private practice, focused on food allergies and sensitivities, gastrointestinal conditions, athletic performance, and pediatrics. For much of her career, she has worked for food allergy and microbiome testing companies, training and mentoring health care practitioners on test interpretation and microbiome recovery protocols. As the Healthcare Practice Director of Tiny Health, she works closely with HCPs to assure Tiny Health testing is actionable and helps them solve their patient microbiome grievances.

 

Keywords: 

functional health, microbiome testing, Tiny Health, gut microbiome, pediatrics, food allergies, eczema, atopic march, C-section birth, whole genome sequencing, stool chemistry, probiotics, dietary recommendations, immune system, chronic disease, practitioner resources, reference ranges, short chain fatty acids, HMO digesting species, LPS (lipopolysaccharide), TMA (trimethylamine), neurodevelopment, inflammation, GI health, diversity in microbiome, beneficial microbes, disruptives/pathogens, action plan, clinical insights, gut-brain connection

Disclaimer:

The views expressed in the IRH Clinician’s Corner series are those of the individual speakers and interviewees, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC does not specifically endorse or approve of any of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician’s Corner series. The information and opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician’s Corner series are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC is not liable for any damages or injuries that may result from the use of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician’s Corner series. By viewing or listening to this information, you agree to hold the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC harmless from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with your participation. Thank you for your understanding.