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Practitioner Resources

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Explore our content across a diverse range of health and nutrition-related topics, patient concerns, and common clinical presentations.

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Building a Thriving Chiropractic Practice: The Importance of Nutrition Coaching and Modeling a Healthy Lifestyle
Join Chiropractors Dr. Sarah Clarke and Dr. Gena Kadar in this inspiring conversation about building a thriving practice. Dr. Kadar discusses incorporating nutrition with Chiropractic work for improved patient outcomes, and the importance of practitioners modeling healthy lifestyles and practicing self-care. They wrap up the episode with a vision for the future of integrative medicine, and valuable advice for new practitioners building their practices.
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RG-1 Carrot Fiber for Microbiome Support
What is Rhamnogalacturonan I (RG-I) Carrot Fiber? Rhamnogalacturonan-I, also known as RG-I, is a pectin derivative found in plant cell walls.  It has a gelatinous and flexible chemical makeup.  It is responsible for holding onto water, providing flexibility to the cell wall, and assisting in cell-to-cell adhesion, keeping the cell wall ‘loose’ but remaining intact.  It is structurally responsible for 5 to 36% of cell wall content.1  Because of these properties, RG-I has been highlighted as a unique pectin structure that can be used as a supplemental fiber to improve microbiome health and innate immunity.  Rhamnogalacturonan-I can be derived from the Capsicum annum (bell pepper) or Daucus carota (carrot).  More commonly, RG-I is sourced from carrots as they are nutrient powerhouses containing active polysaccharides that are ideal for creating RG-I fibers.  Additionally, carrots are a scalable crop group providing sustainable benefits as cover crops.2   Thereby, in addition to the novel health benefits, RG-I provides a sustainable approach to sourcing unique polysaccharide fiber. How does RG-1 Carrot Fiber support the Microbiome?  Of the benefits of RG-I carrot fiber, the most novel has been the impact on microbiome communities regulating both gastrointestinal health and immunity.  RG-I is classified as a potent prebiotic. Prebiotics are intended to ‘feed’ the gut bacteria, helping beneficial species proliferate and grow in the microbiome. Clinical studies investigating the use of RG-I derived carrot fiber found clinically significant alteration to the human gut microbiota.  Collected cultures demonstrated increases of Bacteroidetes which are responsible for the production of the short chain fatty acids (SCFA) butyrate, acetate, and propionate.  As a result of SCFA production, RG-I has been attributed to thickening of the epithelial barrier enhancing gastrointestinal pathogen defense functioning.3  In-vitro studies have demonstrated RG-I to be rapidly fermented within the colon, allowing for specific, selective stimulation of beneficial microbiota species.  Rapid fermentation of RG-I demonstrates benefits over other prebiotic fibers, including less occurrence of gas induced by SCFA production and an improved anti-inflammatory profile.3 An experimental trial conducted on 24 healthy adults found supplementation of RG-I from carrots significantly increased the abundance of multiple probiotic strains in the gastrointestinal tract, most notably SCFA-producing species such as Bacteroidetes, Bifidobacteriaceae, Anaerobutyricum  hallii, Blautia sp., and Faecalibacterium  prausnitzii.4 How RG-1 Carrot Fiber supports Gut-Lung Axis One of the unique benefits of RG-I is the immune promoting properties, more specifically, the impact on the innate immune system due to its influence on the Gut-Lung Axis.  The innate immune system is the body’s first line of defense against viruses, similar to the gut microbiota being the first line of defense against pathogenic bacteria.  The two systems are interconnected as the lung microbiota and gut microbiota crosstalk to maintain homeostasis and inhibit disease evolution from viruses.  Thereby, modulation of the gut microbiota from RG-I has been found to support the innate immune system.8  The influence on SCFA’s from RG-I supplementation has been shown to modulate innate immune cells, like neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells, and cytokines.  Additionally, there are bioactive compounds that SCFAs promote that can influence antigen-specific T-cells and B-cells supportive of the innate and adaptive immune system.2 Immune Health RG-I has been shown to possess immunomodulatory properties via three mechanisms: modulating the immune responsiveness of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) which detect Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns (PAMPs) stimulating the production of short chain fatty acids, which produce acetate, propionate, and butyrate enhancing the response of phagocytosis and natural killer cells, and modulate the secretion of cytokines, chemokines, and ROS5 A single-center, controlled, randomized, double-blind dose-response study used three doses of RG-I carrot fiber (no dose, low dose, and high dose) to investigate the reduction of severity and duration of rhinovirus. The RG-I carrot fiber group(s) had an accelerated interferon-induced response promoting the innate immune system.  Secondary outcomes found pronounced levels of CXCL10 and CXCL8 levels, indicating an enhanced anti-viral response against rhinovirus. The study attributed these findings to the presence of dendritic and macrophage cells surveying the intestinal tract that were carrying beneficial microbes from RG-I, which were then recirculated to the respiratory tract through the gut-lung axis. The results showed an improved microbiota species within the respiratory cavity making the body more resilient and adaptive to immune challenges.6 A randomized, double-blind clinical study supplemented with 300 milligrams of RG-I found significant reduction in severity ranging from twenty to thirty-three percent, with an accelerated recovery. The experimental cohort had duration to recovery rate of almost half compared with the control group.  The study found RG-I provided a protective immune response and reduced the negative impact of rhinovirus on quality of life.5 A separate study conducted on immunosuppressed mice found immunomodulatory activity in bone-marrow derived dendritic cells (BMDCs). The study found significant quantities of cytokines that modulate the innate immune system, including IL-6, TNF-a, IL-10, and Il-17, within bone marrow cultures. These findings indicate RG-I promotes the maturation of BMDCs and enhances lymphocyte-activation capacity, which allows lymphocytes to respond to antigens, or the presence of a virus.7 Clinical Takeaway In addition to the multitude of health benefits that prebiotic fiber can provide, RG-I Carrot Fiber provides a unique benefit to proliferating the gut microbiome and promoting immune health.   Did you know WholisticMatters is powered by Standard Process? Learn more about Standard Process’ whole food-based nutrition philosophy.   Learn More
carrots being harvested in a garden
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Strategies for Optimal Aging: Leveraging Nutrition and Fitness for Practitioner and Patient
In this lively conversation, Dr. Besuden, DC, CFMP, shares all of her tips, tricks and recommendations for aging optimally and gracefully. Drs. Sarah and Besuden discuss strategies for maintaining healthy habits and routines for practitioner and patient alike. This episode is full of gems including specific supplementation to fill nutrition gaps, easy-to-maintain exercise routines, and a deep dive into hormesis practices.
mature woman lifting weights
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The Microbiome’s Influence on Whole Body Health & Related Clinical Research
About this Episode Drs. Daina Parent and Ryan Bradley take a deep dive into the microbiome and it’s influence on whole body health, and cover highlights on clinical research focused on gut health. They also touch on how soil health and environmental toxins have an impact on the microbiome. Dr. Ryan Bradley is a Naturopathic Physician with a Master’s Degree in Public Health and Epidemiology. He is currently a professor and has completed 8 years of clinical research training. He leads research initiatives at the intersection between public health and integrative and complimentary medicine. Use the audio player above to listen now! And don’t forget to follow and like our podcast channel to stay up-to-date on upcoming podcast episodes. Highlights of the episode include: Gut Health as connected to global effects throughout the whole body Current research in the gut health space and how it translates into clinical practice Mind Body Medicine and connection to Gut Health SOIL HEALTH: The hope for the near future: increased public understanding of soil health and connection to gut health and overall well-being Podcast Summary 2:00 – Dr. Bradley’s Journey towards current career and passion for research; his interest in mechanisms of natural products and clinical research; clinical practice was focused on cardiometabolic disease, Diabetes, and more 5:10 – New initiatives after closing clinical practice 5 years ago – now focuses on clinical research / clinical trials; also focuses on Mentorship through National Center for Complimentary and Integrative Health, branch of NIH for Complimentary Medicine 8:30 – Importance of research for clinicians – shifts the way practitioners practice, especially in Complimentary and Integrative Medicine which has a population of clinicians thirsty for evidence of effectiveness of Complimentary and Integrative strategies, philosophy, and frameworks/protocols 11:55 – Historical Knowledge of effectiveness of Naturopathic Medicine, “the science is finally catching up to our practices”; example – gut health, dysbiosis, leaky gut syndrome; “We finally have the scientific tools to explore these concepts in greater detail.” 13:50 – Gut Health and Naturopathic Medicine – trends and changes in gut health practice; general public is paying more attention to their gut health; rapid innovation, especially with probiotics, postbiotics, prebiotics, and fibers; does the science support large doses of probiotics?; Is the practice outpacing the evidence?; What will the future of microbiome research and awareness look like? 20:40 – Gut Health as connected to global effects throughout the whole body – hormonal health, immune health, brain health; effects of environmental factors like air and water quality influence gut health 23:55 – Current research in the gut health space and how it translates into clinical practice 34:32 – NIH Grants for mentorship, gut health, mind-body practices and effects on anxiety, and more 40:40 – Mind Body Medicine and connection to Gut Health 42:15 – Will gut health continue to be at the forefront of medicine and medical research? Personalized probiotics and AI; potential natural GLP-1 agonists; increased public awareness to demand better foods, less environmental toxins in food, water, and air 49:55 – SOIL HEALTH: The hope for the near future: increased public understanding of soil health and connection to gut health and overall well-being; gut health linked to soil health, food quality, and farming practices; everything is interconnected 53:20 – Integrative Health and it’s impact on public health This podcast is sponsored by Standard Process About Standard Process – Only at SP https://youtu.be/5pmnY1nOfoU?si=MSyD04ZRu-zT9alc
woman eating yogurt and healthy foods for gut health
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Strategies for Motivating Patients Towards Optimal Health
About this Episode Strategies for Motivating Patients Towards Optimal Health In this enlightening episode, Dr. Sarah Clarke interviews Dr. Ryan Lazarus, author of The Essential Health Playbook and creator of The Lazarus Method. The conversation highlights Dr. Lazarus’  personal health journey and how it shaped his career and the work he’s developed over the past 20+ years. He offers inspiring and effective strategies for meeting patients where they are at; supporting their goals, values, and priorities; and offering tools to help them achieve optimal whole body health. Use the audio player above to listen now! And don’t forget to follow and like our podcast channel to stay up-to-date on upcoming podcast episodes. Highlights of the episode include: The four ways people change; finding what motivates each individual to make important health changes is the key to success Gamification as a useful wellness tool Defining priorities, values and goals Finding your true purpose and how it affects one’s health journey Unlocking greater potential with Biohacking Podcast Summary 1:20 Dr. Lazaraus describes his near death experience at 18 while playing indoor soccer that began his health journey and shaped the trajectory of his career 4:00 Digestive issues and type 1 diabetes diagnosis following the accident that destroyed his pancreas 5:30 10 years of frustration using conventional medicine to help with digestive issues and mental health support prompted him to take charge of his own health and find a better way to heal and live a healthy life 7:30 How Dr. Lazarus’ healing journey changed his career path and how he was drawn to Chiropractic Medicine 11:10 Common obstacles people face in finding healthcare; Dr. Lazarus’ role is to explain that there is a holistic evidence-based way to heal 13:20 The Lazarus Method – people change in four different ways; finding what motivates each individual to make important health changes is the key to success 19:00 Change takes time and Gamification is a useful tool– uses engaging athletic/sports language for motivational tools; sets fun micro challenges; individualized approach 25:20 Meeting people where they’re at – How to keep ourselves and patients motivated and engaged to continue to make positive changes towards better health and healthier overall lifestyle; defining priorities, values and goals 28:05 Nutrition and Diet – Ryan describes his EAT Plan (Essentials, Amount, Timing) 32:00 – Flow States, “in the zone” and the importance with long-term health 36:15 – Finding your true purpose and how it affects one’s health journey 41:00 Transition from 20-year clinical practice to writing books and focusing on The Lazarus Method 43:15 Dr. Lazaraus’ passion for Human potential – realizing what one is capable of on all levels 46:33 Supporting motivated people ready to unlock the next level of performance, achievement, and potential with Biohacking Strategies 50:00 thelazarusmethod.com offers free wellness tools; The Essential Health Playbook is his latest book This podcast is sponsored by Standard Process About Standard Process – Only at SP
healthy people exercising at park
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Essential Nutrients for Promoting Cardiovascular Health
While there are an abundance of factors influencing cardiovascular disease risk, there are certain nutrients that can be utilized to prevent deficiencies, reverse disease progression, and take a proactive approach to reducing disease risk to support those populations with cardiovascular disease concerns. 
woman hiking with hands in shape of heart
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A Plant-Based Dietary Supplement Improves Measures of Metabolic Detoxification and Quality of Life
Consumption of a plant-based dietary supplement designed to support the body’s natural detoxification processes resulted in clinically meaningful and beneficial effects on quality of life and biomarkers of metabolic detoxification.
plant-based dietary supplements
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Pediatric and Maternal Wellness: Growing Healthy Children in all Ages and Stages
About this Episode Pediatric and Maternal Wellness: Growing Healthy Children in all Ages and Stages Host Dr. Sarah Clarke, DC, IFMCP, leads this informative episode, interviewing Dr. Brenda Holland, Chiropractic Physician who specializes in pediatric care and maternal wellness. Drs. Clarke and Holland take a deep dive into supporting mothers and children of all ages and stages from pre-conception through adolescence with nutrition, chiropractic care, and healthy movement.  Use the audio player above or the YouTube video below to listen now! And don’t forget to follow and like our podcast channel to stay up-to-date on upcoming podcast episodes. Highlights of the episode include: Nutrition recommendations for healthy growing children Establishing healthy habits with older children Nutrition for infants, babies and toddlers Pre-conception, Fertility and Prenatal care and nutrition recommendations Fourth Trimester Care for women and breastfeeding support Podcast Summary 1:00 Growing up on farm – health of cows and how to increase healthy milk by providing cows with alfalfa and fermented corn, and how soil health impacts crops and animals 3:15 Whole Body Health – connection between the Earth and what we put into our bodies 5:30 beginning Chiropractic Practice and earned Diplomate in Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics through ICA 7:00 Chiropractic Companies and Organizations for support network 10:10 Changes in the field of Chiropractic over past 20 years – more female chiropractors, and how it’s changing the workplace to support working Chiropractic mothers; more emphasis on specialties – pediatrics, functional medicine, etc. 17:45 Common conditions children come into the chiropractic office – sports injuries, back pain, obesity, skin conditions; when to refer out 20:00 Nutrition recommendations for healthy growing children 23:20 Risks of children becoming a one sport athlete at a young age, and the importance of a good nutritional foundation for young athletes 28:20 Nutrition for infants, babies and toddlers – breastfeeding if possible, good quality formulas, vitamin D3, healthy fats, solid food introduction at the right time 34:20 Making healthy foods look appealing for babies and toddlers – focus on eating colorful foods 36:38 Establishing healthy habits with older children – take them shopping, parents lead activities on growing foods and nutritional value; the 80/20 rule 38:48 Pre-conception, Fertility and Prenatal care and nutrition recommendations – fertility is not just about female health, 30-50% of fertility issues are due to male health, including inadequate folate intake, CoQ10, and selenium; common pregnancy concern is back pain, 45-50% of females experience low back pain in pregnancy and 65+% experience low pain within 12 months of delivery 42:30 Fourth Trimester Care for women – healthcare and society need to establish a foundational understanding of pelvic care prior to and after pregnancy; safe comfortable places to breastfeed 47:00 Chiropractic as patient-centered care – 49:44 – Simple changes to start with if patients are feeling overwhelmed on starting their wellness journey – adding good things in before taking away, healthy eating habits, and basic movement Other WholisticMatters Children’s Health Content Nurturing Gut Health for Kids Supporting Children’s Immune Health through the Microbiome How Much Protein do Children Need: Nutritional Requirements for Growing Kids This podcast is sponsored by Standard Process About Standard Process – Only at SP https://youtu.be/LWsINdQBN-0
kids playing soccer
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Exploring Naturopathic Medicine: A Patient-Centered Root-Cause Approach to Whole Person Health
Dr. Daina Parent, Naturopathic Physician and Clinical Educator at Standard Process, interviews Dr. Michelle Simon, Naturopathic Physician, PhD in Biomedical Engineering, and President and CEO of the Institute for Natural Medicine. Use the audio player above to listen now! And don’t forget to follow and like our podcast channel to stay up-to-date on upcoming podcast episodes.
naturopathic medicine
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Women’s Hormones through the Lifespan
In this episode Dr. Daina Parent, Clinical Educator at Standard Process, interviews Dr. Jaqueline Smeaton, Naturopathic Physician and founder of Hello Fertility.
four generations of women
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