Fx Medicine Podcast Central

Join Dr Brad Leech and ambassador Lisa Costa-Bir on her inaugural podcast on all things gut inflammation. Brad breaks down the importance of functional testing for assessing inflammation, with a detailed discussion on interpreting the four major tests: calprotectin, lactoferrin, occult blood and secretory IgA. Learn about the importance of personalising treatment for patients with gut inflammation and how to effectively use (and dose) key anti-inflammatory herbs and nutrients for optimal efficacy. Clinical take-homes for use in your practice will also include dietary recommendations and an interesting discussion on colon cleansing. COVERED IN THIS EPISODE (00:50) Welcoming Dr Brad Leech (02:02) Intestinal inflammation vs intestinal permeability (03:29) Signs and symptoms of intestinal inflammation (06:43) Functional assessments for intestinal inflammation (23:41) How the microbiome influences intestinal inflammation (36:05) When should we test our patients? (42:07) Treatment options for combati

In this podcast, clinical herbalist Todd Mansfield joins naturopath Lisa Costa-Bir to explore the under-recognised role of small intestinal fungal overgrowth (SIFO) in chronic gut dysfunction - especially in cases where SIBO treatment has repeatedly failed. Together, they unpack the clinical presentation of SIFO, from systemic symptoms to stubborn digestive complaints, and discuss how to differentiate fungal overgrowth using tools like organic acids testing (OAT), fatty acid fractions, pancreatic elastase results, and bowel motility assessments. Todd shares his comprehensive herbal strategy - including horopito, galangal, and magnolia bark - as well as probiotic, prebiotic and postbiotic interventions, with detailed commentary on dosing, mechanisms, and synergistic effects. This episode is a must-listen for practitioners managing complex or treatment-resistant gut presentations, offering a new lens to evaluate and address chronic dysbiosis, inflammation, and relapse-prone cases. Covered in this episode:

In this week’s podcast Dr Arun Dhir, a gastroenterology surgeon, clinical researcher and author of Happy Gut, Healthy Weight, joins Dr Michelle Woolhouse as they delve into the crucial connection between gut health and various chronic conditions, including Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and its links with obesity. 1 in 5 people experience GORD on a weekly basis and in this episode, Dr Arun discusses his algorithm for investigating an individual presenting with GORD. Dr Arun also talks to the challenges of diagnosing conditions like hiatus hernias and the importance of comprehensive investigations, while offering practical advice on improving gut health through diet, stress management, and complementary therapies.  Covered in this episode: (0:46) Welcome Dr Arun Dhir  (2:30) Dr Arun’s story  (7:25) “All diseases begin in the gut”  (12:16) Factors causing GORD  (18:17) Hiatus hernia  (21:39) Intra-abdominal pressure  (23:08) Helicobacter pylori  (25:35) Gut testing  (32:09) Gastrocolic re

In this podcast, Emma Sutherland is joined by psychophysiologist and Monash University researcher Dr Simone Peters - one of the world’s leading experts in gut-directed hypnotherapy - to explore the rise of this behavioural therapy as a first-line treatment for IBS and other gut disorders. From her landmark randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing hypnotherapy to the low fermentable, oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAP) diet, to the development of the Nerva app, Simone presents compelling data on how this therapy works, with 75–80% of patients responding within six weeks. The recommendation to use gut-directed hypnotherapy for IBS now forms international treatment guidelines and this episode empowers practitioners to integrate mind-body approaches into clinical care for IBS and beyond. Covered in this episode: (01:04) Welcome Simone Peters (06:04) Hypnotherapy and gut conditions (08:04) Nerva app (13:36) Patient experience (17:35) IBS, males vs females (20

Gastroenterologist Dr Will Bulseiwicz and our ambassador Emma Sutherland explore holistic methods of supporting a gut microbiome that reduces risk of developing chronic disease. Will takes into consideration that we’re uniquely bio-individual to the level of our gut microbiome and a person’s health is intrinsically connected to its own unique gut terrain a.k.a. gut microbiome. Emma and Will also discuss the benefits of maintaining a healthy gut lining by supporting mucus secretions such as secretory IgA, and the usefulness of probiotics. They also discuss the various natural sources of probiotics beyond pills and powders, and how to use them effectively in a clinical setting. Will makes recommendations on how to choose the “right” probiotic for you patients and how to support this use with natural sources along with prebiotics. The discussion then moves to an interesting area of fermented foods and spore forming probiotics (typically from Bacillus spp.) Covered in this episode (00:53) Welcoming Dr Will

In this podcast, Emma Sutherland teams up with gut naturopath Matt Douglas to unravel the clinical complexity of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) - a condition that’s far more common and stubborn than many practitioners realise. Together they dive deep into the pathophysiology, testing methods, and diagnostic challenges of SIBO, exploring why it’s often misdiagnosed and misunderstood. Matt brings a clear, practical approach to treatment - covering herbal antimicrobials including oregano, berberine, and allicin, the well-researched and clinically supported pharmaceutical option Rifaximin and his thoughts on dietary therapies like the Elemental Diet. But the real value lies in his relapse prevention strategies, which emphasise the importance of motility agents and gut repair support — such as partially hydrolysed guar gum (PHGG), Saccharomyces boulardii, globe artichoke, and a proprietary six-herb combination — to help restore long-term digestive resilience. Whether you’re new to SIBO or ma

Dr Brad Leech, Clinical Nutritionist and Herbalist joins fx Medicine by Bioceuticals ambassador Lisa Costa-Bir to unpack the intricacies of autoimmunity and the connection to the gut microbiome. Brad shares a wealth of clinical pearls for practitioners with autoimmune patients by unpacking the clinical relevance and meaning of functional gut testing markers as he examines how practitioners can use testing as a tool to identify inflammatory risk factors associated with autoimmunity and individualise treatment protocols for patients using diet, lifestyle, and supplemental support. Brad describes the clinical significance of establishing balance and healthy diversity within the gut using food as medicine, rather than focusing on elimination. Together, they also explore lifestyle factors that impact the gut microbiome, and how managing stress and using targeted supplementation to achieve a balanced gut microbiome can contribute to lowering autoimmunity risk factors in our patients. COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

In this episode of podcast, Dr Michelle Woolhouse is joined by integrative GP Dr Nic Giummarra to explore the evolving science and clinical application of medicinal cannabis in Australia. From cannabinoid pharmacology and terpene profiles to chemovars and prescribing strategies, Dr Giummarra offers deep insights into how cannabis-based medicines can support patients with chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety, and insomnia. He explains the distinct roles of phytocannabinoids cannabinol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), how medicinal cannabis influences sleep, neuroplasticity and emotional regulation, and why the endocannabinoid system is so crucial - yet often overlooked - in conventional care. Dr Giummarra also unpacks the risks of closed-loop prescribing models and "tick-box" clinics, calling for more ethical, patient-centred approaches grounded in evidence, education and practitioner discernment. This is essential listening for healthcare professionals looking to engage with medicinal cannabis safe

Dr Kristin Neff is a pioneer in the field of self-compassion research and a passionate advocate for the inclusion of self-compassion for healthcare practitioners to both ensure optimal care for our patients while avoiding burnout. Kristin shares her definition of self-compassion, how it differs from self-esteem, her key findings around this important topic, and how we as healthcare practitioners can easily implement self-compassion into our own lives, and advocate for it with our patients. This podcast is a must listen for healthcare professionals and patients alike, who are looking to increase their patient care, resilience, reduce anxiety and stress, and adopt powerful lifestyle habits to increase self-compassion and love. COVERED IN THIS EPISODE (01:00) Welcoming Dr Kristin Neff (02:41) Kristin’s definition of compassion (13:16) Shame and its purpose (15:34) The difference between self compassion and self esteem (20:11) Self compassion as a powerful coping mechanism (24:24) Self protective

In this compelling episode, Dr Michelle Woolhouse speaks with Dr Jill Bolte Taylor, a Harvard-trained neuroanatomist whose left-brain stroke led to a profound journey of recovery, discovery, and transformation. Sharing insights from her bestselling book Whole Brain Living, Jill describes her eight-year path to rebuilding brain function one circuit at a time - revealing the distinct roles and personalities of the brain’s four key “characters.” Listeners will explore how the left and right hemispheres process experience, memory, identity, and emotion in dramatically different ways, and how this understanding can guide emotional resilience and mental wellbeing. With practical insights like “the 90-second rule”, “the brain huddle,” and the role of sleep in healing, this episode offers a deeply human yet scientifically grounded roadmap for self-awareness and recovery. An inspiring listen for healthcare practitioners, therapists, and anyone exploring the science of consciousness, emotion, and personal growth.

In this episode, Dr Adrian Lopresti speaks with cognitive neuroscientist and postdoctoral fellow Dr Diana Karamacoska to explore the evolving landscape of brain health and dementia prevention. With a personal connection to vascular dementia, Diana shares insights from Australia’s largest clinical trial investigating a novel herbal formulation combining panax ginseng, ginkgo, and saffron. The discussion covers the biological distinctions between vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s, the role of lifestyle factors, and the emerging use of digital assessments and blood biomarkers. Diana explains the cognitive and systemic benefits of physical activity, diet, social connection, and mind-body practices like yoga and tai chi. The conversation also highlights nutrients and herbs showing promise for memory and neuroprotection, including B vitamins, ginkgo, curcumin, lutein, and zeaxanthin. This episode offers practical, evidence-informed strategies for addressing cognitive ageing, vascular decline, and dementia ris

Dr Austin Perlmutter, neurobiology, mood and decision-making expert, joins our ambassador Dr Adrian Lopresti as they explore the biological basis of “stuckness” in the mind and how the brain is influenced by inflammatory/immune triggers which results is certain behaviours and health outcomes. Together they discuss the relationship between sickness behaviour, neuroinflammation and their effect on the brain leading to our inherent tendency to return to “default”. Nature vs nurture is discussed where exposures from foetal development, childhood trauma and genetic influences can impact our mental and cognitive flexibility much later in life. Austin explains “disconnection syndrome” a modern conundrum where our brains tend to latch onto impulsive behaviours leading to cognitive decline. It’s not all doom and gloom as Austin and Adrian bring practical solutions to the table in the form of simple lifestyle adjustments that promotes behavioural change and reduce neuroinflammation. COVERED IN THIS EPISODE

In this episode , Lisa Costa-Bir is joined by leading naturopath, registered nutritionist and educator Rachel Arthur to unpack the complex landscape of autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD). Framing conditions like Hashimoto’s and Graves’ as systemic immune disorders - not just thyroid dysfunction - Rachel shares powerful clinical insights on diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management. With her trademark clarity and “catch cries” like “kill and spill,” Rachel breaks down the clinical significance of thyroid antibodies Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPO) and Thyroglobulin Antibodies (TgAb), Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) as a “whip,” and the self-perpetuating nature of glandular damage. She also dives deep into evidence for antioxidants like glutathione, selenium and, CoQ10, as well as discussing the value of myo-inositol, magnesium, and vitamin D - and whether there is a role for iodine supplementation in AITD. This episode is a must-listen in integrative naturopathic care for AITD - balancing nutrie

Naturopath Beth O’Hara shares her experience of 20 years with MCAS, most of those years undiagnosed, which has fuelled her interest to become an expert in MCAS. Dr Michelle Woolhouse delves into Beth’s health journey with MCAS and Beth generously shares her clinical pearls on the atypical presentations of MCAS, the relationship of mast cells and the nervous system, genetic variants (SNPs) predisposing someone to MCAS along with treatment options that range from micro dosing supplements, neuroimmunology, limbic system balancing and vagal nerve stimulation. COVERED IN THIS EPISODE (01:29) Welcoming Beth O’Hara (02:31) What is MCAS (05:51) Signs and symptoms of MCAS: piecing together the big picture (12:23) Beth’s personal struggles with MCAS (17:35) How Beth rebuilt her health (19:57) Stabilising the nervous system (25:53) The importance of safety during the healing journey (30:23) Genetics and testing for SNPs that provide insights into MCAS treatment (35:10) Functional pathology testi

In this powerful and fast-paced episode, Dr Helena Popovic joins our fx Medicine by BioCeuticals ambassador Lisa Costa-Bir to reframe dementia as a call to action, a starting point for transformation, not a sign of end of life. Drawing from personal experience as her father’s carer as he encroached dementia and decades of clinical research, Helena explains how lifestyle, mindset, diet, and movement profoundly influence brain health. From the dangers of excess fructose and the promise of the ketogenic diet to the underestimated power of exercise, volunteering, and finding a sense of purpose - she lays out a comprehensive and inspiring roadmap to protect and even improve cognition. Helena’s message is clear: a dementia diagnosis is not the end - it’s a wake-up call. Full of evidence-based strategies, clinical pearls, and real-world examples, this episode is essential listening for any practitioner or person who wants to boost up their brain and combat dementia. Covered in this episode: (00:54) Welc

Naturopath Keonie Moore shares in-depth clinical experience on managing Paediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal infections (PANDAS) with Ambassador Emma Sutherland. Together they define the key differences between PANDAS and PANS, as well as the the common triggers, signs and symptoms to help clinicians pinpoint the condition - including an overview of the research history backing this relatively newly understood condition. They also discuss the immune-based pathophysiology that not only involves the nervous system but centralises around gastrointestinal health, triggering systemic inflammation. Keonie shares several components of her Moore method; a treatment plan where specific microbiome, nutrigenomic and pathology tests are recommended to help clinicians determine PANDAS and their therapeutic recommendations. Finally, Keonie details an in-depth, informative, and practical case study of a ten-year-old boy who had severe tic disorder, outlining her strategic approa

In this episode of fx Medicine by BioCeuticals, host Lisa Costa-Bir speaks with naturopathic physician and nootropic expert Dr Greg Kelly about the evolving role of nootropics in supporting cognitive performance. Greg shares how plant-based and nutritional compounds - including bacopa (Bacopa monnieri), saffron (Crocus sativus), gotu kola (Centella asiatica), alpinia (Alpinia galanga), L-theanine, and nicotinamide riboside - can enhance focus, memory, motivation, and mental energy. The conversation explores how these agents work through key pathways such as acetylcholine signalling, neuroplasticity, and mitochondrial function. Greg also unpacks the concept of brain resource depletion, the impact of modern distractions, and why nootropics are just as relevant for healthy individuals as they are for those with cognitive challenges. He offers practical guidance on stacking, cycling, and how to support non-responders by returning to foundational naturopathic principles like sleep, nutrition, and stress managem

Dr Deanna Minich provides a comprehensive exploration of the diverse aspects of melatonin, offering a deeper understanding of the mechanisms and benefits of this sleep-associated neurotransmitter. The discussion, hosted by fx Medicine by BioCeuticals Ambassador Dr Adrian Lopresti, covers the different types of melatonin in the body, shedding light on its production sites and widespread presence across body systems. The episode also explores the connection between melatonin and the gut, its impact on mitochondria, and provides a detailed breakdown of the six pivotal roles that melatonin plays. The conversation touches on a variety of health conditions that melatonin may support, and outlines natural ways to enhance melatonin production—starting with optimising light exposure, dietary strategies, and the potential of plant-sourced melatonin. Listeners will also gain insights into how endogenous melatonin levels vary across life stages. Importantly, the podcast addresses safety considerations, differences in

In part two of our Perspectives podcast series on sleep, host Dr Adrian Lopresti is joined by our fx Medicine by BioCeuticals ambassadors Dr Michelle Woolhouse, Emma Sutherland, Lisa Costa-Bir and Mick Alexander to delve deeper into integrative treatment strategies for sleep disorders. Shifting the focus from assessment to intervention, the team discusses pharmaceutical options such as benzodiazepines, SSRIs, and melatonin, while emphasising the value of holistic, personalised care. Through detailed case studies, they explore approaches to managing sleep challenges in shift workers, perimenopausal women, and individuals with anxiety or chronic pain. The episode highlights nutritional and herbal interventions—including saffron, L-theanine, lutein, magnesium, kava, Californian poppy, passionflower, and zizyphus—alongside strategies for enhancing circadian rhythm function, such as natural light exposure and effective decompression routines. Challenges such as long-term medication use and complex cases, inclu

Dr Nicholas Kardaras, psychologist, international speaker and author describes the physical and psychological impact excessive screen time has on both adults and children. Together with our ambassador, Dr Adrian Lopresti, Nicholas describes the addictive nature of excessive screen and the impact this has on dopaminergic function, likening it to substance abuse. As a psychologist, Nicholas looks to the behavioural implications of screen use in children, describing the connection between screen time and impulsivity and the longer term consequences. While often associated with children, adults are not immune to screen time addiction, with research demonstrating many adults using screens as an escape from reality. Nicholas describes the implications of screen time addiction on the individual’s ability to connect with others and the correlation this has with increased numbers of depression. COVERED IN THIS EPISODE (00:46) Welcoming Dr Nicholas Kardaras (05:15) The link between screen time and mental