New Frontiers In Functional Medicine

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

This episode is a little different from what we usually cover on New Frontiers, but it’s one I couldn’t wait to bring to you. I’ve been thinking a lot about how we—as clinicians—are supposed to keep up in this era of high-throughput technology. We’re swimming in data: labs, multi-omics, diet logs… and an ever-growing stream from wearables. There’s just so much coming at us, and too often, we’re awash in a sea of information without adequate interpretive power. That’s why this conversation with Dr. Rana el Kaliouby felt so important. She’s not just an AI scientist—she’s a visionary and a total badass. She’s building technology that doesn’t just process data, but actually helps us become better clinicians and better humans. We get into the ethics, the potential, the parenting implications—and yes, a personal story about a tragedy in my own hometown that made this all hit very close to home. This one’s powerful, and I hope it sparks the same questions and inspiration for you as it did for me. ~DrKF TRIGGER WAR

In many ways, the legal side of functional medicine can feel like the Wild West—uncertain, unregulated, and full of risks. The reality is, we all want to have our practices legally buttoned up, but navigating the legal landscape can feel overwhelming—and expensive. What Scott Rattigan, creator of Functional Lawyer, shares in this episode is a real game-changer. He not only breaks down the complexities of the legal side of things but also offers real solutions for us—solutions that can make sure we're covered without the stress and uncertainty that often comes with it. Whether you're just starting out or growing your established practice, you're going to get actionable insights on how to avoid common legal pitfalls, protect your practice, and actually move forward with confidence. It’s a topic that’s been an unmet need for so long, and I'm so excited to bring this to you. ~DrKF Check out the show notes at https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ for the full list of links and resources. EXCLUSIVE OFF

I’ve been looking forward to sharing this conversation with you because it’s one I’m truly passionate about. Today, we’re diving into the DunedinPACE epigenetic clock with one of its creators, the brilliant Dan Belsky. It’s a tool I use regularly with my patients, and one that’s transforming how we approach aging and interventions. While this show is a bit more technical than usual, the science is fascinating, and the real-world applications are incredibly valuable. This isn’t just about theory—it’s about practical insights that can change how we measure aging and track the effectiveness of the treatments we offer. Stick with us, and you’ll walk away with actionable knowledge that can make a difference in your practice. ~DrKF Check out the show notes at https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ for the full list of links and resources. GUEST DETAILS Daniel W Belsky, PhD Website: www.belskylab.com THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS DIAMOND DUTCH: https://dutchtest.com/for-providers Biotics Research: http

What if a human trial of over 1200 patients showed improved mobility and reduced pain in osteoarthritis (OA) patients using a natural combination of boswellia and celery seed extract? What if a second follow-up randomized, placebo-controlled human trial found that within 90 days, this same combination increased OA patients' ability to perform a walk test by over 50%, reduced markers of cartilage degeneration by half and increased markers of cartilage regeneration by half. This is what the research team at Calroy Health Sciences have discovered, putting a tremendous amount of work and financing into studying the effects of the uniquely-developed Cartigenix-HP. Not only that, increased joint space at the end of the trial was clearly visible via radiography, and 90% of the intervention group did not need any "rescue" pharmaceutical medication at the end of the 90 day period (compared with only 20% of the placebo group) and this effect was sustained beyond the end of the trial. I have to say, I am impressed and e

We’ve all had patients struggling with chronic conditions like long COVID, fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, and chronic fatigue. Despite all the tools in our functional medicine toolkit, there’s still something missing. How can we truly help them? I’m excited to have Ashok Gupta back on the New Frontiers podcast to offer a new take on healing from chronic illness. He explains that many chronic diseases stem from a malfunction in the brain's threat detection system, where the body overreacts to perceived threats, triggering immune, nervous system, or mood responses, creating a vicious cycle. Ashok shares how retraining the brain and calming the nervous system can reset the body’s response to chronic stress and presents the growing body of research supporting the Gupta Program, including new subjective measurements like CRP showing its impact. What excites me most is the potential for this approach to help some of my toughest-to-treat patients. With more studies emerging, I’m increasingly hopeful this could be a ga

What if the key to reversing chronic disease, slowing cognitive decline, and boosting energy lies in the tiny powerhouses inside your cells—and we’ve finally found a way to protect them? We know mitochondria power our cells, but did you know they also create oxidative stress as they generate energy? Protecting mitochondrial health is critical—but most antioxidants can't reach inside the mitochondria where protection is needed most—until now. MitoQ, a scientifically advanced, mitochondria-targeted antioxidant developed by visionary researchers in New Zealand penetrates mitochondria up to 90%, offering protection where it's needed most. In this episode with Dr. Siobhan Mitchell, we dive into how MitoQ is transforming the way we tackle chronic disease, inflammation, and cognitive decline. From improving heart health to supporting brain function, MitoQ is changing the game. It’s something I’m using personally and recommending to most of my patients. Listen in to discover how this powerful tool can help you supp

Join me for a fascinating conversation around an exciting breakthrough in dementia detection that’s offering real hope for early intervention. Dr. Hans Frykman, Chief Scientific Officer at Neurocode Laboratories, is here to share groundbreaking insights into cutting-edge biomarkers that can identify pathology associated with Alzheimer's disease before symptoms even appear. What’s even more fascinating is how these same tools are revealing neuroinflammation caused by infections, including COVID, Lyme disease, and mold exposure—issues that are incredibly relevant in functional medicine today. The assays Dr. Frykman and his team have developed, and continue to research, are transforming the way we think about diagnosing and addressing neurodegeneration. We’re talking about a potential game-changer that allows us to intervene earlier, reverse damage, and ultimately improve the trajectory of these conditions. This is an extraordinary time in science and medicine, and the work we’re discussing today is at the foref

We’re witnessing an exciting shift in how we understand gut health and disease—and it’s all thanks to the powerful metabolites produced by the microbiome, like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and secondary bile acids. In today’s episode, Dr. Tom Fabian shares groundbreaking insights into how these postbiotics influence intestinal barrier integrity, immune balance, and even muscle regeneration. These compounds are also connected to key processes like glucose metabolism and healthy aging. What’s truly fascinating is how this science is opening up new frontiers in treating IBS, metabolic conditions, and chronic gut issues. With the upcoming launch of Diagnostic Solution Laboratories’ StoolOMX test, an add-on to the GI-MAP, we now have a tool to measure these metabolites in clinical practice, making personalized and effective treatments more attainable. This is a pivotal moment in functional medicine that you don’t want to miss. ~DrKF FOLLOW ALONG WITH THE CONVERSATION! Get the Updated GI-MAP® Guide with StoolO

It’s very difficult (often impossible) to completely avoid many of the environmental toxins that can cause harm - like air pollution and forever chemicals that contaminate our water and food supply. But Drs. Bob and Rosalind Wright at Mount Sinai have a hopeful solution to this dilemma. They are pioneering the study of “resiliency factors,” not just “risk factors,” that can offset the risks of harmful exposures. It’s a fresh and welcome take on exposomics that I am very excited to share with you. For instance - did you know that omega-3 intake during pregnancy can protect against the development of asthma in the child, even if the child is exposed to known risk factors for asthma? Or that positive relationships (ones that create a sensitive, positive, caregiving environment) have been shown to potentially mitigate the effects of environmental toxins? As a practitioner, I am always looking to empower patients with real solutions to the health challenges we inevitably face and I hope you enjoy this conversatio

Join me and Dr. Colleen Cutcliffe, my brilliant friend, scientist, and the powerhouse CEO of Pendulum, for our deepest dive yet into all things Akkermansia. This free-flowing conversation will take your understanding of this extraordinary strain to a whole new level. We’ll explore Akkermansia’s pivotal role in metabolic health—think cravings, weight regulation, A1C—and why we’re deficient in the first place. Plus, we’ll discuss its connection to stress, anxiety, and even neurodegenerative diseases. We’ll also dive into the hotly debated topic of Akkermansia’s impact on MS, unpacking both sides of the controversy. And, we’ll touch on its promising influence on hormonal balance, from infertility to menopause. As someone who's deeply invested in science, I’m personally bullish on Akkermansia and trust Pendulum’s products as part of my own foundational health stack. With groundbreaking science and fresh insights, this episode will change the way you approach your practice. ~DrKF Check out the show notes at htt

For many struggling with depression, the message they often hear from traditional care is "just live with it" or "there’s nothing more we can do." In today’s episode, we’re challenging that narrative. I’m joined by Dr. Achina Stein and Silvia Covelli, the founders of the Healing Depression Project. Dr. Stein, a functional psychiatrist, and Silvia, who’s personally battled chronic depression, are offering a fresh approach to treatment-resistant depression. Their in-residence program, launching in March, takes a whole-person approach—integrating nutrition, lifestyle changes, trauma healing, and community support. And with research built into the program, they’re not just helping patients; they’re also paving the way to make this approach more accessible for everyone. If you’re ready to rethink depression treatment, this episode is for you. ~DrKF Check out the show notes at https://tinyurl.com/2t55s3y3 for the full list of links and resources. GUEST DETAILS Dr. Achina Stein DO, IFMCP and Silvia Covelli, crea

We’re doing a deep dive into NAD, a molecule that has received a lot of attention but still confuses many of us, clinicians included. My guest today is able to unpack the complexities of NAD in a way you’ll find extremely illuminating and useful. I’m excited to have Dr. Greg Kelly Senior Director of Product Development at Qualia, back with us, explaining how NAD is foundational for energy, longevity, and overall cellular health. Dr. Kelly brings clarity to how NAD influences mitochondrial function, DNA repair, and pretty much all of the hallmarks of aging. Yet, problematically, it declines as we age. This episode will cover different NAD compounds, how deficiency might present clinically, and how to measure NAD reliably. Have a listen and get ready to expand your understanding around this essential compound. ~DrKF Check out the show notes at https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/ for the full list of links and resources. GUEST DETAILS Dr. Greg Kelly greg@neurohacker.com Dr. Greg Kelly is Senior

After my conversation with Dr. Greg Fahy in August, I realized that I had additional questions that we didn't have time to address the first time around. Importantly, since here I am studying the effects of dietary and lifestyle interventions on aging, I wanted to know his thoughts on the dietary components of the TRIMM study and beyond. Dr. Fahy shares his thoughts on my question and some others on side effects on different medication and supplement interventions, the mechanism by which he thinks the restoration of hair color occurred in some of his study participants, and how to think about (and feel motivated about!) incorporating safe exercise. This brief bonus podcast episode is just right for squeezing into your holiday schedule. Enjoy! ~DrKF Missed the first conversation with Dr. Greg Fahy? Catch up on the original episode for key insights and context before diving into the follow-up! https://tinyurl.com/bdcwktbj Check out the show notes at https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast for the full

The brain’s ability to recover after trauma is astonishing—and often overlooked in conventional care. In this episode of New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, I sit down with Dr. David Musnick, a long-time friend and brilliant clinician, to explore how we can unlock the brain’s full potential for healing. Dr. Musnick challenges the standard of care for traumatic brain injuries and post-concussion syndrome, introducing a functional medicine approach that integrates advanced tools like Frequency-Specific Microcurrent, targeted nutritional strategies, and personalized interventions. His insights into the stages of recovery, the importance of addressing neuroinflammation, and the role of the gut-brain connection were a true "aha" for me. We also dive into groundbreaking methods for reversing secondary brain damage, a concept that could change everything for patients and practitioners alike. This conversation is packed with actionable takeaways and hope for those navigating brain injuries, cognitive impairment,

For anyone who has been paying attention, you may already know that the takeaways related to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) from the original Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study have been completely overhauled. It’s about time! As a result, it’s not an understatement to say that we are in the midst of a total transformation in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and it’s essential that as providers we (1) get up to speed on the nuances of the new interpretations and (2) learn how to personalize the guidance we give. Dr. Allison Smith, from Precision Analytical, is really a bright, guiding light in this new era of hormone care. She joins me in this episode of New Frontiers to start to unpack some of those important considerations and share resources for where practitioners can learn more. She explains why more detailed hormone metabolite testing can provide answers to hormonal symptoms when standard serum measures of testosterone and estrogen are “normal.” She also shines a light on the need for understan

How do we prevent cognitive decline before it even begins? The answer might not be what you think. I’m thrilled to share my conversation with Dr. Owen Phillips, a Stanford-trained neuroscientist and founder of BrainKey, who is helping to revolutionize brain care. His team is using AI technology to uncover subtle brain changes long before they result in disease—transforming the way we approach brain health. And here’s the kicker—Dr. Phillips reveals why protecting your brain actually starts with protecting your vasculature—No surprise when you consider it’s essential for feeding this power-hungry organ. This shift in thinking could change how we all approach cognitive health moving forward. We touch on heavy metal toxicity, long Covid, sports injuries and more, so if you’re ready to rethink brain health and prevention, this conversation will leave you with a fresh perspective. Be sure to grab a copy of the Brain Anatomy PDF and follow along for even more insights. ~DrKF Check out the show notes at https://