327: Making Space for Brain Health with Dr. Ellie MacGregor

I AM HUMAN

In this episode of I AM HUMAN, I interview Dr. Ellie MacGregor - an Integrative and Functional medicine pediatrician - who specializes in brain health, about her journey to holistic medicine.

We explore the profound connection between brain and body health, particularly through the lens of complex conditions like celiac disease and ADHD. Dr. McGregor shares eye-opening case studies, such as that of a college student misdiagnosed with ADHD, whose focus issues were actually due to nutritional deficiencies from undiagnosed celiac disease. We discuss how holistic approaches that consider gut health, nutrition, and overall bodily function can lead to more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments, moving beyond simple mental health labels.

Lastly, we dive into the lifestyle factors affecting pediatric health, from dietary habits to sleep routines and the impact of community environments. Dr. McGregor emphasizes the importance of compassion and empathy in medical practice, offering practical strategies for families to improve health habits in sustainable ways. We also touch on the pitfalls of over-reliance on supplements and the critical role of conventional medicine during acute crises.

Discussion points:

• (00:00) Guest intro, background, path to pediatrics and integrative medicine, addressing mental health in children and combining art and science in her practice.
• (10:38) What is NOT taught in medical school, food sensitivities, nutritional deficiencies, and interconnectedness of brain and body.
• (19:53) Brain health, lifestyle changes for patients include building trust, diagnostic testing, prioritizing sleep, and balancing downtime.
• (27:14) Teenagers, fatigue, the multifactorial nature of ADHD, including genetics, environment, and shifting perceptions of diagnoses.
• (38:36) Compassion and empathy are important for children's health, including sleep, nutrition, and exercise. Multi-pronged solutions are needed for families.
• (49:09) If you had a magic wand….our schedules would allow for healthy eating, rest, meditation, and overall health
• (52:38) Supplements alone are not enough for mental health; third-party testing is important; conventional medicine is necessary; balance and health are key; personal story of celiac disease and food allergies.
• (56:33) Closing questions, what we wish people knew
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Resources:

Middle Path Integrative Pediatrics Website

Middle Path Integrative Pediatrics IG

Middle Path Integrative Pediatrics Facebook

Dr. Ellie MacGregor LinkedIn

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace careful evaluation and treatment. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please consult a healthcare professional.

The I AM HUMAN podcast explores topics such as plant-based nutrition, lifestyle medicine, personal development, and spirituality to promote health, well-being, longevity, and joy and help you craft your best life yet. Subscribe today, and send your feedback to [e-mail]

Dr. Yami is a board-certified pediatrician, certified lifestyle medicine physician, national board-certified health and wellness coach, author and international speaker. She is a passionate promoter of healthy lifestyles, especially the power of plant-based diets for the prevention of chronic disease. She hosts the popular podcast I AM HUMAN (formerly Veggie Doctor Radio) which boasts listeners from 98 countries and more than a million downloads to date. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, a diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, has a certificate in plant-based nutrition and is a certified Food for Life Instructor. Dr. Yami owns Nourish Wellness, a pediatric practice in Yakima, Washington where she lives with her husband and two sons. Her book is called “A Parent’s Guide to Intuitive Eating: How to Raise Kids Who Love to Eat Healthy”. You can learn more about Dr. Yami at DoctorYami.com.

More From Dr. Yami:

TEDx Talk - http://bit.ly/DOCTORYAMITEDX

A Parent's Guide to Intuitive Eating: How to Raise Kids Who Love to Eat Healthy by Dr. Yami - https://amzn.to/4edSFHx

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