A Functional Medicine Approach to Health Care with Dr Brandy Zachary (Dr Z)

Artwork for podcast The Ultimate Journey of Self-Care

Episode 294 • 13th August 2024 • The Ultimate Journey of Self-Care • Alison Katschkowsky

Alison interviews Dr. Brandy Zachary, a functional medicine practitioner known as Dr. Z. Dr. Z shares her journey from being declared permanently disabled due to health issues to running a successful business focused on addressing the root cause of health problems. Functional medicine involves looking at biological pathways in the body to make changes upstream, considering factors like body, mind, emotions, genetics, work, and family environments. Dr. Z emphasizes the need for more personalized and in-depth care provided by functional medicine practitioners compared to conventional medicine.

The conversation delves into the challenges facing the public, such as metabolic disease, obesity, diabetes, heart issues, and the impact of hormones, endocrine disruptors, weight, thyroid, and stress on health. Dr. Z stresses the importance of lifestyle changes, proper sleep, movement, and individualized nutrition in addressing these issues. She highlights the significance of honest communication and creating a judgment-free space between patients and practitioners to facilitate effective health solutions.

Dr. Z provides insights on behavior modification, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to address psychological, physiological, and lifestyle factors influencing habits like late-night snacking or self-medication. She encourages time-blocking for balanced self-care, prioritizing quality sleep, fun movement, and personalized nutrition. Dr. Z also discusses the importance of ongoing education on lab values and non-invasive tests like calprotectin and occult blood fit tests for early detection and intervention.

HIGHLIGHTS:

2:47 Defining Functional Medicine and Its Approach

5:21 Unveiling Dr. Z's Health Struggles

7:58 The Domino Effect of Health Issues

9:33 Importance of Behavior Change in Health

12:15 Major Health Concerns in Functional Medicine

17:24 Importance of Understanding Lab Values

20:38 Update on Colon Cancer Screening Guidelines

22:06 Tips for Daily Self-Care and Lifestyle Changes

25:46 Addressing Evening Eating Habits

CONNECT WITH DR. Z:

Website