Fx Medicine Podcast Central

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

In part one of our newly revamped Perspectives podcast, hosted by Dr Adrian Lopresti, our fx Medicine by BioCeuticals ambassadors Dr Michelle Woolhouse, Emma Sutherland, Lisa Costa-Bir and Mick Alexander explore the fascinating world of sleep. This episode dives into myths surrounding sleep, such as we can train ourselves to function on less sleep or that timing doesn’t matter as long as we get enough hours. The team uncovers the pathophysiology of insomnia, examining the roles of neurotransmitters, hormonal changes, and circadian rhythm disruption. They also discuss key assessment tools like wearables, sleep studies, and questionnaires to help identify sleep issues and their root causes. Additionally, the episode reviews common sleep disruptors, including screen time, shift work, and lifestyle factors, while offering actionable tips to improve sleep quality. Whether you're a practitioner or simply looking to gain a deeper understanding of sleep from four clinical specialists, this episode is packed wit

Dr Frank Cahill, clinical psychologist and insomnia specialist, joins fx Medicine by BioCeuticals ambassador and psychologist Dr Adrian Lopresti to explore the understanding and treatment of insomnia. Nearly half of Australian adults report sleep issues, with a rise in cases observed at Frank’s practice during the pandemic. Drawing on his extensive experience, Frank explains homeostatic sleep drive (sleep pressure) and how identifying and adjusting sleep habits can help realign sleep patterns. Frank and Adrian discuss common causes of acute and chronic insomnia and outline tailored treatment approaches. In a live assessment, Frank analyses Adrian's sleep patterns, illustrating the role of sleep drive in overall rest quality. Gain insights into cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques, including sleep hygiene, relaxation therapy, stimulus control, and restriction therapy, along with tools like sleep diaries, distractions, and medication. The discussion also covers melatonin testing and treatment, wit

In this episode of fx Medicine by BioCeuticals, host Dr Adrian Lopresti interviews Dr Nenad Naumovski, a leading researcher in food science and human nutrition at the University of Canberra. Dr Naumovski delves into his pioneering research on L-theanine, a non-proteinogenic amino acid found in green tea, highlighting its potential to improve sleep quality, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive function. Dr. Nenad discusses how L-theanine impacts neurotransmitters and increases alpha waves in the brain to induce relaxation and sleep. He also explains how L-theanine works to improve memory and cognition, which can be understood through its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The discussion also covers the development of functional food products fortified with nutrients, including L-theanine, and the challenges of making them viable and palatable while maintaining health benefits. This episode offers invaluable insights into L-theanine's role as a potent therapeutic agent an

Professor Peter Drummond, Murdoch University's Director of the Centre for Research on Chronic Pain, and our Ambassador Dr Adrian Lopresti explore the relationship pain has with thoughts, emotions, mental health and sleep. The discussion begins with Prof Drummond exploring the influence of thoughts and emotions on one’s perception of pain with a detailed discussion on various pathways that pain travels through the brain which results in the experience of feeling pain. Pyschological state seems to play a huge role in colouring pain perception where fear, anxiety, depression leads to an increased pain signalling. Prof Drummond explains how psycholeducation techniques have been proven to alter one’s experience of pain through reprocessing therapy and relaxation that affects one’s ability to control and manage their pain better. Covered in this episode [00:52] Welcoming Professor Peter Drummond [01:37] Can emotions affect pain? [06:18] Fear can switch pain off [08:27] Perceptions of pain can affect pai

In this episode, Emma Sutherland hosts Christine Pope, a naturopath, nutritionist and homeopath, to explore strategies for healthy ageing. With Australia’s ageing population on the rise, Christine highlights the role of diet, lifestyle, and targeted supplementation in extending healthspan, not just lifespan. Christine delves into the key biomarkers for ageing, such as insulin resistance, inflammation, and thyroid function. She discusses the nutrient deficiencies most common in older adults - particularly vitamin D, zinc, iron, magnesium, and iodine - and their impact on cognitive function, metabolism, and immunity. The conversation also covers the importance of protein intake, exercise for muscle preservation, and reducing the body’s toxic burden. Christine shares insights from her training in the Bredesen Protocol for Alzheimer’s and discusses how balancing blood sugar and optimising hormones can help prevent cognitive decline. This episode is packed with clinical pearls to help practitioners support

Integrative GP Dr. Lily Tomas dives into the many complexities involved in fibromyalgia, a condition underpinned by chronic, systemic inflammation and neuroinflammation. Our Ambassador Dr. Michelle Woolhouse opens the conversation discussing the many aetiologies of fibromyalgia which include oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, mast cell activation, microglia activation, peripheral and central sensitisation. They discuss common risk factors such as Vitamin D deficiency, gut health, and abnormal peripheral and central pain pathways, as well as others that can play a part in the development of fibromyalgia - which mainly impacts women aged 20 to 60 years of age. The gut is a major first focus for Dr. Tomas, who details connections between those with fibromyalgia and IBS, as well as how to investigate and treat through the gut. There’s also a deep discussion surrounding mitochondrial health and the development of fibromyalgia, due to the high concentration of mitochondria in skeletal muscle tissue as

Join Alyssa Tait in an insightful conversation with Lisa Costa-Bir, where they dive deep into pelvic floor health and women's health. Alyssa, a pelvic physiotherapist, naturopath, and nutritionist, covers a wide range of topics, including pelvic pain, anorectal continence, urinary incontinence, and prolapse. Discover the "inverse circus tent" analogy and learn how to ask the right questions to encourage sharing without inducing shame or embarrassment. Alyssa highlights key risk factors for pelvic floor issues and the crucial role of nutrients like vitamin C & D, zinc, amino acids, and omega-3s. She also discusses assessing pelvic floor risk in women approaching perimenopause and the value of topical oestrogen in menopause. This podcast is a must-listen for healthcare professionals dedicated to supporting patients with pelvic floor disorders. Don't miss out! COVERED IN THIS EPISODE [00:59] Introducing Alyssa Tait [02:25] What is the pelvic floor? [07:33] Questions clinicians should be asking [12:49]

Join Naturopath Sandra Villela and our Ambassador Lisa Costa-Bir as they discuss and dispel some of the myths around Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), a condition that affects and estimated three to eight percent of women. PMDD, both a gynaecological and mental health disorder is an under-recognised disorder that is riddled with misconceptions around the role of excess oestrogen. Together, Sandra and Lisa discuss the latest research including PMDD sufferers' sensitivity to normal hormone fluctuations and the important role of progesterone the relationship with neuroactive steroids like pregnenolone, oestradiol, progesterone, and corticosteroids. The roles of allopregnanolone and serotonin in PMDD are discussed, as well as prescribing solutions including saffron, vitamin B6 (including dosages to prevent peripheral neuropathy) and vitex, and protocols to boost clinicians prescribing confidence. The conversation is rounded off by nutritional strategies and light therapy's serotonin-boosting potential sho

In this episode, Emma Sutherland hosts Dr Miranda Myles, an integrative naturopath, clinical nutritionist, and acupuncturist, to discuss the complex topic of iodine in clinical practice. Miranda, a thought leader in women's health and fertility, shares her insights on iodine's role in thyroid function and its broader health implications. This discussion explores iodine and its components, examining its biochemical transformation and role in thyroid hormone production, while highlighting the influence of environmental factors and dietary sources on iodine levels. Miranda highlights patient demographics at risk for iodine deficiency and excess, offering practical guidelines for testing and prescribing iodine safely, while also addressing common myths, the nuanced relationship between iodine levels and thyroid health, and the importance of finding a balanced approach to iodine supplementation. This episode provides valuable clinical pearls for healthcare practitioners aiming to optimise the prescribing an

Paul Clayton is joined by fx Medicine by BioCeuticals ambassador Dr Adrian Lopresti, who together deep dive into the role of PEA in all conditions (beyond pain), and where PEA can relieve symptoms and support resolution. Paul is an advocate of lifestyle and nutrition in the prevention and management of disease. As a pharmaconutritionist, Paul understands the vital importance of how nutrition impacts chronic disease, and the role that chronic inflammation plays in driving ageing, as well as the onset and development neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disease. Together Adrian and Paul examine the role of PEA in the treatment of inflammatory disease states, dosage and supplementing, and its use in the effective management of both acute and chronic conditions. Covered in this episode (00:57) Welcoming Dr Paul Clayton (01:58) What is a Pharmaconutritionist? (09:12) Drivers of ageing (11:15) Introduction to PEA (13:45) Endogenous production of PEA (14:30) Therapeutic benefits of PEA (18:4

In this episode, Dr Adrian Lopresti interviews Dr Simon Rosenbaum, an academic exercise physiologist, about the intersection of physical activity and mental health. Simon shares insights from his extensive research, highlighting how exercise can be used as therapy to serve as both a preventative measure and a treatment for mental health conditions, particularly depression, anxiety and minimising the symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and its associated comorbidities and its associated comorbidities, depression, and anxiety. Simon further discusses the Addi Moves program, a trauma-informed physical activity initiative targeting disadvantaged and trauma-affected communities, emphasising the importance of creating supportive, culturally appropriate environments for exercise.   Simon underscores the critical role of physical activity in improving mental and physical health outcomes, advocating for its integration into mental health services. He also touches on challenges, such as overcoming stigm

Leah Hechtman, well respected naturopathic practitioner, and reproductive health expert, explores the pain associated with endometriosis and the emerging understanding of adjusted neurological pathways through a woman’s life experiences that can shapes her perception of pain. She is joined by FX Medicine ambassador, Emma Sutherland, who delves into the concepts of the neurocircuitry that occurs in women with endometrial pain, and explores why some women may or may not feel pain depending on the physical severity of tissue proliferation. There’s a deep connection between lived experiences, emotions and trauma which impacts a woman’s feeling of safety, self-worth and empowerment which requires ongoing work to untangle in order to recover from experiencing ongoing pain - even when the clinical signs of endo have ceased. The importance of support and providing a safe space for women to discuss all the underlying factors to their pain is emphasised. Importantly, knowing when to refer is explained, particularly

With our ambassador, Emma Sutherland, Andrew describes the challenges in obtaining an endometriosis diagnosis for patients, and provides us with the clinical signs he attributes to endometriosis. Andrew describes the challenges endometriosis patients may experience in finding appropriate pain relief, and of the many causes of pelvic pain often attributed to endometriosis. We hear Andrew’s preferred holistic strategies to support an endometriosis patient, and of the importance of a collaborative care model to support the complexity and individualistic nature of endometriosis. Find today's transcript and show notes here: https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/the-endometriosis-series-the-specialist Sign up for our monthly newsletter for the latest exclusive clinical tools, articles, and infographics: https://login.bioceuticals.com.au ***DISCLAIMER: The information provided on fx Medicine by BioCeuticals is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor i

In part two of our series on endometriosis, Professor Jon Wardle provides us with an update on endometriosis research including his work on the Endo at Work project, designed to identify the challenges faced by endometriosis patients in the workplace. Jon shares his motivations for transitioning into endometriosis research and how it aligns with his naturopathic approach to healthcare. Our ambassador Emma Sutherland and Jon discuss the opportunities complementary health practitioners have in supporting patients with endometriosis and the challenges faced by these patients in both the workplace and the healthcare system. Find today's transcript and show notes here: https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/the-endometriosis-series-the-researcher Sign up for our monthly newsletter for the latest exclusive clinical tools, articles, and infographics: https://login.bioceuticals.com.au ***DISCLAIMER: The information provided on fx Medicine by BioCeuticals is for educational and informational purposes