Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations with Dr. Izabella Wentz

In this solo episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz explains why IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is often a “wastebasket diagnosis” – a label based on symptoms, not causes. Drawing from her personal healing journey and years of clinical experience, she breaks down why most IBS cases have identifiable, treatable root causes, and how a functional medicine approach can lead to lasting resolution.

Dr. Wentz also introduces her new book, IBS: Finding and Treating the Root Cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, a comprehensive guide to uncovering what’s really driving digestive symptoms and addressing them at the source.

What you’ll learn in this episode:


Why IBS is a diagnosis of exclusion, not a root cause: IBS is diagnosed using the Rome IV criteria based on symptoms alone, without identifying what is driving them. Research suggests that up to 98% of people labeled with IBS have a treatable underlying cause. When you investigate the why behind symptoms, healing becomes possible.


The conditions that are commonly mislabeled as IBS: SIBO, bile acid malabsorption, pancreatic insufficiency, celiac disease, carbohydrate intolerances, infections, and even inflammatory bowel disease can all present as IBS. Each requires a different treatment approach, which is why proper identification matters.


Why the low FODMAP diet is not a long-term solution: Although it may temporarily reduce bloating and discomfort, the low FODMAP diet does not address the underlying cause. Long-term restriction may even reduce microbial diversity and worsen gut health if deeper imbalances are not corrected.


How medications can contribute to digestive symptoms: Proton pump inhibitors, pain relievers, and certain drospirenone-containing birth control pills can alter stomach acid, gut motility, and microbial balance. Medication side effects are often an overlooked contributor to IBS symptoms.


The nutrient deficiencies and infections that drive symptoms: Low magnesium, glutamine, zinc, vitamin D, thiamine, and carnitine can impair digestive function. Pathogens such as Blastocystis hominis and Giardia are also frequently found in people with IBS and may resolve symptoms when properly treated.


Why IBS can precede autoimmune disease: Gut dysfunction can appear 5 to 15 years before a diagnosis such as Hashimoto’s. Addressing IBS early may help calm immune imbalance and reduce the risk of progression.

Tune in to learn how to uncover the true cause of your IBS symptoms and take control of your healing journey.

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode!

Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ 

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

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In this episode of Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Dr. Christy Sutton about iron overload (hemochromatosis) – an underdiagnosed condition that can contribute to fatigue, pain, mood changes, elevated liver enzymes, blood sugar dysregulation, gut issues, hormone imbalances, and even thyroid dysfunction.

Dr. Sutton explains why many people don’t get properly evaluated, how to interpret key iron markers like transferrin/iron saturation alongside ferritin, and the “carrier myth” that can prevent people from getting monitored and treated. She also shares practical strategies that may support healthier iron levels, from therapeutic phlebotomy to diet and targeted nutrients.

Iron overload is incredibly problematic, but so is iron deficiency (low ferritin), which is very common in people with Hashimoto’s. While this episode focuses on excess iron, it’s important to understand that both extremes can contribute to fatigue, hair loss, brain fog, mood changes, and poor thyroid hormone conversion.

What you’ll learn in this episode:


Why “high ferritin” shouldn’t automatically be brushed off as “just inflammation.” Ferritin can rise with inflammation, but when it is paired with high iron saturation, it may signal true iron overload. Dr. Sutton explains how reviewing a full iron panel, especially transferrin and iron saturation, helps distinguish between inflammation-driven ferritin and excess iron so patients know whether to calm inflammation, remove iron, or both.


The symptom “grab bag” that can point to iron overload. Dr. Sutton walks through how excess iron can affect the liver (fatigue, elevated enzymes), pancreas (insulin resistance/diabetes), brain (brain fog, mood changes), joints (pain), hormones (fertility issues), and gut (IBD/IBS and infections that thrive on iron).


The simple labs that can catch this early (and why many people still don’t get them). A basic iron panel that includes TIBC or UIBC, serum iron, and iron saturation, along with ferritin and a CBC, is often enough to identify a problem. These tests are inexpensive and accessible, yet frequently overlooked. Dr. Sutton explains why iron saturation above 45 percent with elevated ferritin is an important warning sign.


Why women may “fly under the radar” until perimenopause/menopause. Menstruation and pregnancy naturally lower iron stores, which can mask iron overload. Once bleeding stops, iron levels can quietly rise, especially in women with genetic risk. Ongoing monitoring is important (for both women and men).


The “carrier myth” can delay diagnosis. Being told someone is “just a carrier” of a hemochromatosis gene does not mean they are protected. Even one gene can increase risk, and iron overload can develop without classic genetics. Dr. Sutton explains how this misunderstanding can delay diagnosis and treatment.


How to support iron overload beyond blood donation. Therapeutic phlebotomy is only one of many strategies for lowering excess iron. Dr. Sutton discusses dietary adjustments, nutrients that reduce iron absorption such as quercetin and berberine, and iron chelators such as curcumin and alpha-lipoic acid that may help remove iron from tissues and reduce oxidative stress.

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ 

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/
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In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Dr. Darshan Shah – physician, former surgeon, and Founder/CEO of Next Health – about the future of longevity and how science is redefining human health span. Dr. Shah shares how he reversed his own metabolic and autoimmune issues, why “health span” matters more than simply living longer, and how to prioritize lifestyle foundations before exploring advanced longevity interventions like peptides, regenerative therapies, and plasma exchange.

What you’ll learn in this episode:


Longevity is really about health span (not just life span). Dr. Shah explains why the next decade is likely to bring major improvements in how long we can stay vibrant – with stable blood sugar, good sleep, strength, and mental clarity – rather than simply “adding years.”


The four lifestyle pillars that move the needle most. Instead of chasing every trend, Dr. Shah focuses on nutrition/metabolic health, movement/exercise, sleep/recovery, and stress/emotional regulation. When these are dialed in, everything else works better – including supplements, hormones, and advanced therapies.


Why metabolic health is the foundation for almost everything. Blood sugar dysregulation isn’t just about diabetes – it impacts cardiovascular health, brain health, infection risk, inflammation, and even cancer risk. Dr. Shah shares how to measure metabolic health (fasting insulin, A1C, CGMs), and why your mirror can’t tell you the whole story.


Sleep tracking can reveal issues years before they become diagnoses. Many people think they sleep “fine,” but their data shows minimal deep sleep and frequent wakeups. Dr. Shah shares simple high-impact strategies (like consistent bedtime, phone out of the bedroom, and sauna), and Dr. Wentz shares how she’s used tracking to discover what promotes deep sleep.


Peptides, stem cells, and regenerative medicine are exciting, but timing matters. Dr. Shah discusses peptides like GLP-1s (which may support immune regulation beyond weight loss), immune-supportive peptides, and collagen-support tools, plus stem cells, exosomes, and what may be coming next in regenerative science.


A true “longevity clinic” should help you get healthy first – not just sell biohacks. Dr. Shah breaks down Next Health’s four-part approach: lifestyle optimization, functional medicine root-cause work, prevention/early detection, and then longevity interventions. It’s about becoming the boss of your biology – guided by data.

Tune in to learn more about boosting your health span, tracking key biomarkers, and choosing longevity tools wisely.

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ 

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/
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In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews trauma therapist Dr. Nadine Macaluso (“Dr. Nae”), the real-life inspiration behind Naomi Belfort's character in the movie The Wolf of Wall Street. Her personal story led her to dedicate her work to helping people break free from trauma bonds and reclaim their health and identity.

Together, they explore how relational trauma can impact the stress response and inflammation, why empathetic “healer” personalities may be more vulnerable to predatory partners, and what it takes to leave safely and rebuild after a toxic, controlling relationship.

What you’ll learn in this episode:


What a trauma bond actually is (and what it isn’t). A trauma bond isn’t “bonding over shared trauma” – it’s a toxic, emotionally attached relationship where one partner seeks power and control and the other loses autonomy. Dr. Nae explains how these bonds can exist between romantic partners, friends, bosses, and even within families.


Why “empaths and healers” are often targeted – and why it’s not your fault. Many women in trauma bonds score high in agreeableness and conscientiousness: empathy, loyalty, strong morals, and the willingness to work things through. In an unhealthy dynamic, those strengths get weaponized – and the victim often gets blamed (including by herself).


The “Romeo mask” vs. “Dirty John” behavior pattern. Dr. Nae breaks down intermittent reinforcement: the cycle where a partner is cruel and controlling much of the time, then returns to being charming and loving just enough to reignite hope. That “hope hook” keeps people stuck far longer than they ever expected.


Red flags that aren’t romantic, but controlling. Jealousy framed as “love,” constant tracking/texting, broken promises, boundary-pushing, and “all my exes are crazy” stories can be early warning signs. If it feels too good to be true, Dr. Nae shares why it often is.


How to leave safely (without tipping your hand). Leaving can be the most dangerous time. Dr. Nae explains why planning matters, emphasizing the need for securing documents, money, credit, legal support, and trauma-informed care behind the scenes while acting normal – then making a safe exit.


What healing looks like after you leave. Getting out is a relief, but it can also bring grief, C-PTSD symptoms, anxiety, depression, and physical inflammation from prolonged stress. Dr. Nae shares why real recovery includes turning the mirror back toward yourself, with nervous system regulation, attachment healing, and identity rebuilding.

Tune in to learn more about trauma bonds, relational safety, and the healing path back to yourself.

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ 

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/

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In this episode of Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews functional medicine pioneer Dr. Tom O’Bryan to explore why chronic inflammation is the root mechanism behind most autoimmune and degenerative diseases, including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Together, they unpack how immune activation is driven by factors like gluten sensitivity, environmental toxins, mold exposure, gut permeability, and endotoxins – often long before symptoms appear. Dr. O’Bryan explains why suppressing inflammation without addressing these triggers can stall healing, and how modern testing can uncover the hidden drivers that conventional labs miss.

What you’ll learn in this episode:


Why inflammation isn’t the root cause – it’s the root mechanism. Dr. Tom explains why chronic inflammation is the common denominator behind 14 of the 15 leading causes of death, and why the real question isn’t how to suppress inflammation, but what your immune system is trying to protect you from.


The surprising reason gluten affects nearly 87% of people with Hashimoto’s. Even without digestive symptoms, gluten can drive autoimmune thyroid inflammation. One exposure can elevate antibodies for months, which is why “cheat days” can quietly undo progress.


How toxins silently erode immune tolerance, starting before birth. We discuss how glyphosate, phthalates, mold, and other environmental toxins can impair fertility, brain development, and immune balance, even in people living seemingly “clean” lifestyles.


Why outdated lab tests miss the real drivers of autoimmunity. Dr. Tom shares how newer silicone chip–based testing has dramatically improved accuracy – revealing food sensitivities, endotoxins, brain inflammation, and toxic burden that conventional tests often miss.


Why healing works best when you remove obstacles one at a time. Instead of overwhelm, Dr. Tom recommends a simple approach: identify your biggest immune triggers, then address them gradually – one hour per week – to create sustainable, long-term healing.

Tune in to learn how removing immune triggers – not suppressing symptoms – can transform long-term health.

Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ 

For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices