Dr. Emily Parke

09/22/2023

This Chocolate Berry Smoothie is an anti-inflammatory, phytonutrient powerhouse! It's great for supporting a healthy gut microbiome.

09/21/2023

Mental health issues can have manifest symptoms in many parts of the body. Learn how we evaluate mental health in Functional Medicine here.

09/20/2023

There are many other symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, including balance problems, nerve pain, depression, and brain fog.

Specifically, Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder where parts of the brain become damaged over a number of years. When the substantia nigra is impaired, it affects the nerve cells that produce dopamine – an important chemical messenger that passes messages between the nervous system and the brain to control and coordinate body movements. A drop in dopamine levels causes difficulty in movement and coordination – but symptoms of Parkinson’s typically only begin when 80% of the substantia nigra is already lost.

The underlying cause of Parkinson’s disease is still being researched, but new research indicates that autoimmunity may be the source – specifically inflammation, made worse by the effects of aging. As you become older, your immune system can become more sensitive – even picking up on normally benign things, such as your own tissues.

Patients with Parkinson’s have higher numbers of T-cells in their midbrain and share genetic risk factors associated with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.

Learn more about Parkinson's and other neurodegenerative diseases here: https://tinyurl.com/3zyyjwe8

09/19/2023

Collagen Builder provides targeted precursors and cofactors known to be involved in the biochemical processes that support healthy connective tissue in the skin, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, joints, and bone extracellular matrix.

Shop it below!

Collagen Builder provides targeted precursors and cofactors known to be involved in the biochemical processes that support healthy connective tissue in the skin, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, joints, and bone extracellular matrix. Maintains Healthy Joint Function for Normal Mobility and Lu...

09/16/2023

While there isn’t a specific cure for osteoarthritis, there are natural ways that you can manage the pain to improve your symptoms.

09/15/2023

When transitioning from dairy, a milk replacement is key. This almond milk has two base ingredients and is perfect for smoothies or lattes!

09/14/2023

Food sensitivities can create symptoms from head to toe. Learn about the best time to take a food sensitivity test and what they measure here.

09/13/2023

When it comes to testing for Insulin Resistance, there are a few options available. Let's take a look:

1. Fasting Blood Glucose

This is a simple blood test to look at levels of glucose in the blood after an overnight fast can be helpful. A normal blood glucose is less than 100mg/dl. More optimal is less than 90. If the fasting blood glucose is higher than 100, it may indicate insulin resistance.

2. Fasting Insulin Levels

Normal fasting insulin levels are on most standard labs is less than 25, however a healthier insulin level is below, and some metabolic experts say to aim for a level of 7 or less. If insulin levels start to rise, it means the pancreas is putting out more insulin in an attempt to lower the higher glucose levels in the blood.

3. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)

A blood test called HbA1c, or glycated hemoglobin A1c, helps to diagnose prediabetes or diabetes. It shows the average blood sugar level over the last three months. Since it looks at levels over time it is of course of a longer period time, it is not reflective of short-term changes like fasting glucose can be.

Normal = HbA1c < 5.7%
Prediabetes = HbA1c between 5.7 and 6.3
Type 2 diabetes = HbA1c > 6.3
Optimal= HbA1c 5.4% or less

4. Oral Glucose Tolerance Testing (OGTT)

Oral glucose tolerance tests are used to measure how well the body can process a larger amount of sugar. After that you drink a large glass of concentrated sugar solution, blood is drawn again after two hours and three hours and the blood glucose level are measured. If you have prediabetes, you’re at risk of eventually developing type 2 diabetes. You’re also at risk of developing heart disease, even if you don’t develop diabetes.

Normal blood glucose level: lower than 140 mg/dL
Impaired glucose tolerance: between 140 and 199 mg/dL
Possible diabetes: higher than 200 mg/dL

Read more about insulin resistance here: https://tinyurl.com/yhjyzbkx

09/12/2023

Glutathione is the master antioxidant in the body and is heavily concentrated in tissues such as the liver, spleen and heart. Support a healthy immune system by shopping Glutathione below!

Glutathione is the master antioxidant in the body and is heavily concentrated in tissues such as the liver, spleen and heart. Therefore, it plays a crucial role in immune function, detoxification capacity and protection against oxidative stress. The L-Glutathione formulation is preformed, reduced gl...

09/11/2023

Ultra Biotic 100 is a high-dose probiotic delivering 100 billion active cultures of six proven probiotic strains chosen for their ability to survive the harsh GI environment.

Shop it below!

Ultra Biotic 100 is a high-dose probiotic delivering 100 billion active cultures of six proven probiotic strains chosen for their ability to survive the harsh GI environment. These strains deliver superior results for cases of gastrointestinal and immune distress via immune and inflammatory signalin...

09/10/2023

This recipe is a modification of my mother-in-law’s famous chocolate truffle recipe. I also included an easy way to make this Keto-friendly!

09/09/2023

[new blog] Learn how high FODMAP foods can be difficult to digest, and when a low FODMAP diet may be needed to get to the root of your digestive issues.

Learn how high FODMAP foods can be difficult to digest, and when a low FODMAP diet may be needed to get to the root of your digestive issues.

09/08/2023

Vitamin A is a major supporter and protector of your vision. A rhodopsin molecule found in rods located your retina help you see at night. A precursor for the formation of rhodopsins is vitamin A, which is why vitamin A deficiency can result in night blindness.

Vitamin A along with zinc and other vitamins are helpful in slowing the process of age-related macular degeneration. This is because an oxidative injury is believed to play a significant role in this disease process. And with these micronutrients antioxidative effects, it can help reduce oxidative injury.

A healthy diet of fruits and animal products have most Americans getting enough of their vitamin A. You can get a healthy dose of vitamin A with foods like mango, papaya, squash, carrot, and sweet potato!

I list more ways to boost your Vitamin A levels here: https://tinyurl.com/yeksvue8

09/07/2023

Do you have one of the ABCD gut symptoms?

That's to say: acid reflux, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. It's not all inclusive, but I did want to spend a few minutes to talk a little bit about each of them and what are some things that may be possibly contributing to these specific gut symptoms.

Read the transcript of this video here: https://bit.ly/42TSTNH

09/06/2023

Endometriosis is an inflammatory process where the endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus. Fragments of the endometrial lining develop in other places such as the fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, or abdominal and pelvic walls. During each menstrual cycle, this aberrant tissue swells and breaks down, which is the root cause of symptoms.

Adenomyosis is another painful inflammatory condition of the female reproductive system. In adenomyosis, the endometrial tissue grows into the uterus muscle (myometrium). This causes the uterus to get much bigger than normal.

There is also an abnormal intrauterine response to progesterone due to downregulation of those receptors, and increased expression of estrogen receptors making the local environment in the uterus estrogen dominant and thus worsening symptoms.

So what's the difference?

The difference between endometriosis and adenomyosis lies in where the endometrial tissue grows. With endometriosis, the endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus. It can involve the bowel, ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the pelvic and abdominal side walls. Adenomyosis is when the endometrial tissue grows into the muscle of the uterus.

More information on these conditions here: https://tinyurl.com/yzpdwx5t

09/05/2023

Let’s learn more about the effect of meditation on the body, what the research says about meditation, meditation benefits, and finding the right type for you. But first, let’s talk about the nervous system and its role in meditation and stress management.

Learn how meditation helps cardiovascular health, mood, the immune system as well as various forms of meditation you can practice!

09/04/2023

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA), also known as thioctic acid, is one of the most versatile antioxidants available.

It's supportive of a wide variety of health-related issues, ALA recharges vitamin E, vitamin C, glutathione and CoQ10, and directly quenches reactive oxygen species (ROS)! Shop it below!

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA), also known as thioctic acid, is one of the most versatile antioxidants available. Supportive of a wide variety of health-related issues, ALA recharges vitamin E, vitamin C, glutathione and CoQ10, and directly quenches reactive oxygen species (ROS). Provides Fat-Solu...

09/03/2023

This recipe for Chewy Paleo Granola has versatile base of nuts, seeds, and fruits that offers you the opportunity to add in whatever you like!

09/01/2023

There are two, research-validated tests we use in our clinic to discover how well you’re aging. They are telomere length and Dundin PACE clock. Let’s look at each.

Learn about aging tests to discover your biological age - plus, healthy aging tips to stay healthy and maintain a higher quality of life.

09/01/2023

Mast cells are specific types of white blood cells of your immune system that are found in mucosal and epithelial tissues throughout your body – examples include your skin, gut, and lungs. They create barriers between you and the outside environment. Mast cells are your body’s first line of defense against foreign intruders like viruses, pathogens, allergens, and bacteria.

When you come in contact with a foreign intruder, your mast cells release chemicals that send messages throughout your body. These messages tell your body how to react. There are many different types of chemicals that mast cells release, but two of the most common ones are serotonin and histamine.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates your mood and behavior, aids in digestion and sleep, and plays a part in addiction and motivation.

Histamine is a neurotransmitter that regulates processes such as gastric acid secretion, inflammation, and vasodilation regulation. You’ve probably heard of histamine when it comes to allergic reactions because histamine is released when you have an allergic reaction!

Learn more about mast cells here: https://tinyurl.com/mryjrf2z

08/31/2023

Think you’re experiencing symptoms of heavy metal toxicity? Learn how to get the right testing and treatments to stay safe from heavy metals.

08/30/2023

You have the power to improve your methylation process which has major benefits to your long-term health. Here's how...

08/29/2023

While research is still being conducted, there are several mechanisms of action that specifically curcumin have at the cellular level. Here are 3 examples:

1. Curcumin’s mechanism in intervening in oxidative stress.
Curcumin can increase a cell’s ability to defend itself against stress.

2. Curcumin’s mechanism in intervening in inflammation.
Curcumin can switch off mechanisms that are involved in inflammation. For example, curcumin can inhibit the NF-κB signaling pathway, a proinflammatory pathway.

3. Curcumin’s mechanism of action in Alzheimer’s Disease.
Curcumin inhibits the formation of amyloid-𝛃 plaques. It also promotes the disaggregation of amyloid-𝛃 plaques. This protein is the main component of amyloid plaques that are found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s Disease.

If you’re interested in learning more about the various pharmacological actions of curcumin and turmeric in varying diseases, you can read more about them in my blog: https://tinyurl.com/muyknhjp

08/28/2023

Currently there's no efficient way to find out which bacteria are in the small intestine, however, there are a couple of tests we can use. Learn more here.

08/27/2023

This antioxidant rich Blueberry Keto Smoothie will hit the spot! It's nutrient dense and extremely delicious. Enjoy!

08/26/2023

Neurogenerative diseases are often caused by autoimmunity and chronic inflammation. Here's what you need to know to target the underlying symptoms.

08/26/2023

There are a slew of different thyroid medication out there. Today, I want to review some of the most common ones I use in my practice.

08/25/2023

We’re fortunate in the modern world to have access to many resources that can help us learn new things, many times from the comfort of our own home. Learning meditation is no different.

Learn how meditation helps cardiovascular health, mood, the immune system as well as various forms of meditation you can practice!

08/24/2023

Today, I want to talk about the most common nutrient deficiencies that I see in my practice including Vitamin D and mineral deficiencies.

08/24/2023

[new blog!] Discover the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids and how to find a high quality omega-3 fatty acid supplement.

Discover the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids and how to find a high quality omega-3 fatty acid supplement.

08/23/2023

Turmeric, a golden bright yellow spice that comes from a root, is commonly dubbed a “superfood.” Find out why in this blog post!

08/22/2023

Exercise is helpful for improving insulin resistance, particularly weightlifting and high-intensity interval workouts (HIIT)!

Learn how the functional medicine approach to insulin resistance and diabetes can help you achieve healthy blood glucose levels naturally.

08/22/2023

Today, we're going to discuss the differences between SIBO, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, and IMO, intestinal methanogen overgrowth!

Today, we're going to discuss the differences between SIBO, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, and IMO, intestinal methanogen overgrowth.

08/21/2023

Ultra Biotic 100 is a high-dose probiotic delivering 100 billion active cultures of six proven probiotic strains chosen for their ability to survive the harsh GI environment.

Shop it below!

Ultra Biotic 100 is a high-dose probiotic delivering 100 billion active cultures of six proven probiotic strains chosen for their ability to survive the harsh GI environment. These strains deliver superior results for cases of gastrointestinal and immune distress via immune and inflammatory signalin...

08/21/2023

Supplementing with magnesium can create optimal health and may contribute to disease prevention. Here's what you need to know.

08/20/2023

Some people may experience chronic illness after long-term toxic mold exposure. These toxins released by certain molds are called mycotoxins.

However, not all molds are toxic. There are “good” molds as well.

Mold illness can be severe and shouldn’t be taken lightly. So if you're concerned that you have mold toxicity, you'll want to read this.

08/19/2023

Are you experiencing symptoms but aren’t sure what testing and treatment you need? Please continue reading to learn the three main testing methods and treatments I recommend to my functional medicine patients.

Think you’re experiencing symptoms of heavy metal toxicity? Learn how to get the right testing and treatments to stay safe from heavy metals.

08/18/2023

GLP-1 agonist medications have gained popularity in mainstream media as a quick weight loss drug, but they are so much more than that! Besides helping with obesity and chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, did you know they also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties too?

Learn what GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonists are and how they help with blood sugar regulation and weight loss.

08/18/2023

There’s something found in everyone’s bodies that could be harming them and they're called environmental toxins. Read this blog to learn more.