New Frontiers In Functional Medicine

Fatty acids remain one of the most debated areas in clinical nutrition, yet many widely held beliefs may not align with current evidence. In this episode of New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald sits down with Bill Harris, PhD, Founder of OmegaQuant Analytics and co-inventor of the Omega-3 Index, to examine the role of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in cardiovascular risk and clinical decision-making. Learn how to use the Omega-3 Index as a biomarker, interpret atrial fibrillation risk in the context of omega-3 intake, and differentiate between pharmaceutical and dietary interventions. The conversation also explores emerging data on linoleic acid, challenges simplified “good vs bad fat” models, and highlights the complexity of fatty acid metabolism—offering practical guidance for evaluating labs and refining nutrition strategies in practice. Full show notes + references: https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ GUEST DETAILS Dr. Bill Harris, PhD is a leading omega-3 researcher

In this episode of New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald speaks with Tom Fabian, PhD, Senior Educator and Research Specialist at Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory, about why higher protein intake doesn’t always lead to better muscle outcomes. Emerging research shows that digestion, microbiome balance, and immune signaling all influence how effectively the body utilizes dietary protein. Dr. Fabian explores the gut–muscle axis and explains how microbiome-derived metabolites and regulatory T cells support tissue repair and recovery. The conversation also highlights why variability in protein digestion matters and how evaluating gut function can help practitioners determine whether patients are positioned to benefit from higher protein intake. Full show notes + references: https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ GUEST DETAILS Tom Fabian, PhD, translates microbiome research into clinical insights for functional medicine. He is a science advisor with Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory an

As more patients present with digestive sensitivity and increasingly restricted diets, restoring gut resilience has become a central clinical challenge. In this episode of New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald speaks with Colleen Cutcliffe, PhD, CEO and co-founder of Pendulum Therapeutics, about emerging microbiome science and practical strategies for supporting microbial balance, dietary tolerance, and metabolic health. The discussion explores next-generation probiotic strains, fiber diversity, IBS patterns, and real-world approaches clinicians can use to help patients rebuild microbiome resilience and expand diet diversity in practice. Full show notes + references: https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ GUEST DETAILS Colleen Cutcliffe, PhD, is CEO and Co-Founder of Pendulum Therapeutics, where she focuses on advancing microbiome science and metabolic health through next-generation probiotic research. She holds a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Johns Hopkins

In this episode of New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald speaks with Dr. Robert Lustig about the new USDA dietary guidelines and the broader forces shaping nutrition and metabolic health. Dr. Lustig brings a characteristically direct and nuanced perspective on sugar, ultra-processed foods, and food policy—raising important questions about what drives real change. It’s a thoughtful conversation that challenges assumptions and invites deeper reflection. Full show notes + references: https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ GUEST DETAILS Robert H. Lustig, MD, MSL, is Emeritus Professor of Pediatric Endocrinology at UCSF and a neuroendocrinologist with expertise in obesity, metabolism, and nutrition. Known for his influential work on sugar and ultra-processed foods, Dr. Lustig focuses on improving metabolic health through food system reform, research, and advocacy. He is the author of Fat Chance, The Hacking of the American Mind, and Metabolical, and a leader with Eat REAL, Biolumen,

Bone loss doesn’t start when fractures happen — it begins years earlier. In this episode, we explore how bone aging accelerates during menopause and the emerging role of the gut microbiome as a driver of skeletal decline. Dr. Kara Fitzgerald speaks with research scientists from Sōlaria biō, the company behind Bōndia, about their work studying plant-derived microbes, microbial synergies, and the connections between gut health, inflammation, and bone loss in peri- and postmenopausal women. We also review findings from a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial examining a microbiome-based intervention for bone health — and discuss why bone loss may need to be addressed earlier, systemically, and beyond hormones alone. Full show notes + references: https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ GUEST DETAILS Alicia Ballok, Ph.D. is Director of Discovery at Sōlaria biō, leading research on plant-derived synbiotics for inflammatory and immune-mediated diseases. Trained in Microbiology and Immunology a

The continued release of the Epstein files has sparked difficult but necessary conversations across the medical, longevity, and wellness communities. In this candid and deeply reflective episode of New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald sits down with Dr. Sara Szal and Dr. Brad Jacobs to explore what this moment calls forward from clinicians — ethically, professionally, and personally. Together, they discuss: • Medical accountability and the responsibility that comes with influence • The ethical obligations of physicians and mandated reporters • How the medical system has failed vulnerable adolescents — especially young women • Power dynamics, patriarchy, and the culture of silence • Trauma, ACE scores, and measurable impacts on long-term health • What practitioners can do differently starting now This is a thoughtful, clinician-focused conversation about integrity, trauma-informed care, and the role healthcare providers play in protecting and supporting patients. If you care abou

What if obesity and metabolic dysfunction start in the muscle, not the fat tissue we usually measure? In this episode of New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald and Dr. Gabrielle Lyon unpack this emerging science, from intramuscular adipose tissue to protein needs, anabolic resistance, fatty liver disease, and the role of muscle in healthy aging. A compelling episode with immediate takeaways for clinical practice. Check out the show notes at https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ for the full list of links and resources. GUEST DETAILS Dr. Gabrielle Lyon is the physician behind Muscle-Centric Medicine®, a groundbreaking approach that reframes muscle as the key driver of metabolic health, aging, and resilience. She is the bestselling author of FOREVER STRONG and the forthcoming Forever Strong Playbook, which translates her science-backed principles into practical strategies for building lifelong strength and capacity. Website: https://drgabriellelyon.com/ Instagram: https://www.in

Exosomes are becoming one of the most talked-about tools in regenerative medicine, but not all exosomes are created equal. In this episode of New Frontiers, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald talks with Alisa Lask, CEO of Plated Skin, about the science behind platelet-derived exosomes and why their signaling pathways matter for repair, renewal, and changes in skin appearance. We explore how discoveries in cardiology led to this technology, what early clinical studies are showing, and why source and preparation are critical when evaluating any exosome-based approach. A clear, grounded look at a fast-moving field for clinicians who want to understand what’s real, what’s emerging, and what deserves attention next. Full show notes + references: https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ GUEST DETAILS Alisa Lask is the CEO of Rion Aesthetics, where she is driving innovation in regenerative aesthetics with platelet-derived exosomes and leading research in areas like hair restoration and skin appearance. She also oversee

Functional dentistry is emerging as a powerful missing link in systems-based care. In this episode of New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald sits down with Staci Whitman, DMD, IFMCP, a leading voice in functional pediatric dentistry and co-founder of the upcoming Institute for Functional Dentistry. Together, they explore how the oral microbiome, airway health, saliva, hormones, nutrition, and stress physiology shape systemic inflammation, chronic disease risk, and long-term health outcomes. You’ll learn how to recognize oral contributors to gut issues, autoimmunity, cardiometabolic disease, cognitive decline, sleep disorders, and more—plus practical tools you can use right away in a medical setting, including a simple five-question airway and breathing screener. If you’re looking to expand your longevity and whole-body health framework, this conversation offers clear, actionable insights you won’t want to miss. Full show notes + references: https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/

Beta-glucans might be one of the most overlooked levers in immune resilience, and that has major implications for longevity. Talking with my long-time friends and colleagues Drs. Bob Rountree and Chris D’Adamo reminded me just how powerful this molecule truly is. The clinical reach here is stunning, from immune aging and cancer support to vaccine response, gut–brain effects, and overall resilience. What struck me most is how beta-glucans help the innate immune system respond more effectively over time, from overtraining and chronic infections to vaccine responsiveness. Clinicians really need this on their radar. I think you’re going to find this conversation eye-opening. ~DrKF Check out the show notes at https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ for the full list of links and resources. GUEST DETAILS Bob Rountree, MD, is a leading figure in integrative and functional medicine with more than 40 years of clinical experience. Medical Director of Boulder Wellcare and long-time IFM faculty, he is widely

In this episode of New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald sits down with hormone and women’s health expert Dr. Carrie Jones to explore the powerful connection between mitochondrial health and women’s hormones. Together, they unpack how mitochondrial function influences hormone balance, metabolism, energy, mood, and resilience, especially during perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Jones shares practical, evidence-based strategies to support mitochondrial health for optimal hormonal balance, improved sleep, and emotional well-being. Listeners will gain actionable insights into functional medicine approaches to women’s hormone health, including how mitochondrial vitality can help ease hormonal transitions and enhance longevity. Check out the show notes at https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ for the full list of links and resources. GUEST DETAILS Dr. Carrie Jones, ND, FABNE, MPH, MSCP is an internationally recognized expert in women’s health and hormones. Known as the “Queen of Hor

Dr. Kara Fitzgerald sits down with Dr. Brooke Stubbs, an internal and lifestyle medicine physician who transitioned from hospital medicine to a concierge model focused on prevention and personalization. Together, they discuss how to design a practice that supports both patients and practitioners, from efficient systems and appropriate pricing to functional lab integration. Dr. Stubbs explains how Vibrant Wellness helps streamline diagnostics and ensure consistent, high-quality care, offering real-world insights for clinicians ready to evolve their model. Check out the show notes at https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ for the full list of links and resources. GUEST DETAILS Dr. Brooke Stubbs is a double board-certified physician in Internal and Lifestyle Medicine with a master’s in nutrition from Columbia University. As founder of Rooted Femme, a concierge practice in Austin, she helps women achieve better health through lifestyle-based care. She’s a national speaker, retreat creator, and advoca

Dr. Kara Fitzgerald talks with Sergey Young, founder of the Longevity Vision Fund and XPRIZE board member, about the future of aging medicine. Hear how AI, wearables, new diagnostics, and early screening are making longevity solutions more practical, affordable, and clinically relevant for functional medicine practitioners. Check out the show notes at https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ for the full list of links and resources. GUEST DETAILS Sergey Young is a longevity investor, author, and visionary committed to extending healthy lifespans for one billion people. He co-founded the BOLD Longevity Growth Fund, wrote the bestseller The Science and Technology of Growing Young, and serves on the boards of XPRIZE and AFAR. Website: https://sergeyyoung.com/ Follow Sergey: @sergeyyoung200 THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS DIAMOND DUTCH: https://dutchtest.com/for-providers GOLD Vibrant Wellness: https://www.vibrant-wellness.com/ TimeLine Nutrition: https://tinyurl.com/bdzx2xms EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FROM OUR

Hair loss is more than cosmetic. In this episode of New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald explores new research on the OS-01 peptide and its role in targeting senescent cells. Learn how peptide therapy compares to minoxidil, and how hormones, thyroid health, stress, UV exposure, and the scalp microbiome all play a role in thinning hair. Carolina Reis Oliveira, PhD, co-founder of OneSkin, shares insights on how polyphenols, prebiotics, and integrative strategies can support healthier growth. Check out the show notes at https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ for the full list of links and resources. GUEST DETAILS Carolina Reis Oliveira, PhD - OneSkin Co-Founder & CEO Carolina Reis Oliveira, PhD, is the CEO and co-founder of OneSkin and an advocate for healthy aging. With a doctorate in immunology, she moved from Brazil to Silicon Valley to pursue her vision of using science to prevent age-related diseases. At OneSkin, she leads pioneering research on aging biology, including the

Have you ever struggled to understand why some patients just don’t respond as expected, even when you’re following all the usual gut protocols? In this episode, I sat down with Dr. Tom Fabian, who breaks down the latest insights from StoolOMX and GI-MAP testing and shows us how to put them into practice for our most complex cases. We dive into how identifying specific types of inflammation, bile acid patterns, and microbial imbalances can guide more precise interventions, whether it’s introducing fiber, addressing biofilms, or supporting secondary bile acid production. Dr. Fabian makes the science practical, helping us see not just what’s happening in the gut, but what to do about it in real-world clinical settings. ~DrKF FOLLOW ALONG WITH THE CONVERSATION! Curious about the StoolOMX Add-On to GI-MAP? Head to http://tinyurl.com/StoolOMX to download the StoolOMX Reference Guide to better understand results and create effective, actionable protocols Listeners, join me and Dr. Tom Fabian for a free webinar o

Can functional medicine unlock the secrets to healthy aging? In this special preview of the Functional Medicine is Longevity Medicine™ Masterclass happening on September 17- September 19, 2025, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald sits down with three leading voices in medicine and research: - Dr. Bob Rountree: functional medicine pioneer in integrative approaches to health - Dr. Dale Bredesen: internationally recognized expert on Alzheimer’s prevention and reversal - Dr. Charles Serhan: Harvard researcher on inflammation resolution and aging biology Together, they explore how functional medicine reframes longevity by addressing root causes, supporting cognitive health, and resolving chronic inflammation. Whether you’re a clinician, health professional, or simply passionate about living longer and healthier, this conversation offers a glimpse into the science and practical applications that are transforming longevity medicine. WATCH NOW TO LEARN: - Why functional medicine is central to extending healthspan - The lates

It was a pleasure to sit down with Dr. Nir Barzilai for a conversation that turned out to be both lively and thought-provoking. His decades of research on centenarians, biological age, and the hallmarks of aging have shaped how we think about longevity—and what’s possible when we start targeting aging itself, not just individual diseases. We get into the science behind why some people live 20–30 years longer and healthier, and what it means to measure the biological age of individual organs. But we also hit a few sparks—especially when it comes to nutraceuticals and the role of metformin in prevention. I don’t agree with everything you’ll hear, and I followed up with Dr. Barzilai afterward to unpack some of the more provocative claims. We may just need a second round for this one... stay tuned. Check out the show notes at www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ for all the relevant links and resources. ~DrKF Check out the show notes at https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ for the full list of l

I’ve been watching the science behind Calocurb evolve over the last year, and I have to say—this is one of the most exciting clinical tools I’ve seen emerge in the metabolic space in quite some time. A hops-derived compound that stimulates endogenous GLP-1, CCK, and PYY—without a prescription or injection? That’s a big deal, especially for patients struggling with appetite regulation, weight plateaus, or the aftermath of GLP-1 discontinuation. In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Kennedy, founder of New Zealand-based Calocurb, to talk about the years of government-funded research that led to this discovery, the remarkable clinical outcomes they’ve seen so far, and how I’ve personally used it in my practice with excellent results. If you’re looking for science-backed, natural strategies to support appetite control, fasting, or GLP-1 transitions—this one’s worth a listen. ~DrKF Check out the show notes at https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ for the full list of links and resources. GUEST DETAI

In this very special episode, I have the privilege of turning the tables on Dr. Kara Fitzgerald as we celebrate 10 years of the New Frontiers podcast. I’ve been honored to walk alongside Kara on much of this journey—as a colleague, a collaborator, a mentee, and a friend—and it’s been incredible to witness the evolution of both her work and the field itself. Together, we reflect on the stories, science, and people who have shaped this podcast—and the remarkable growth of epigenetics, personalized medicine, and functional medicine along the way. From early conversations around methylation and aging to hosting pioneers like Dr. Jeff Bland, Dr. Sidney Baker, and Dr. Charles Serhan, New Frontiers has become a living archive of how this field has moved forward. As we talked about during the conversation: “Everybody is a piece of this ecosystem, and everybody has their role... It’s really cool to be part of that community.” This episode is a celebration of that collective journey—and a look at where we’re headed n

This is a really exciting conversation with Dr. Davide D’Amico from Timeline, where we’re taking a closer look at Urolithin A and heart health. It should come as no surprise that this mitochondrial wonderkin of a nutrient is showing promise here—especially when you consider that 40% of the heart’s weight is mitochondria. That’s an extraordinary factoid, and one that really shifts how we think about aging in the cardiovascular system. What’s particularly compelling in this new preclinical research is that restoring mitochondrial function may do more than just improve ejection fraction. It may also have ripple effects on other hallmarks of aging—like chronic inflammation, cellular stress signaling, and impaired autophagy. I’m thrilled Timeline is continuing to invest in both preclinical and clinical research on this front—and yes, I’m totally nerding out over what they’re up to. ~DrK Check out the show notes at https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ for the full list of links and resources. GUEST D