Beyond Quick Fixes: Insulin, Cortisol, Ozempic & Real-World Care with Adrian Adams

In this episode of Below Her Surface, Lily sits down with clinical nutritionist and naturopath Adrian Adams to unpack what truly integrative care looks like—minus the fads. From his early love of sport to the acne journey that steered him toward natural medicine, Adrian shares how he blends evidence-based testing with a practical, human approach. Together, Lily and Adrian discuss: - How integrative GP–naturopath co-care actually works in the room—and why patients get better results when clinicians collaborate - PCOS done properly: making a symptom-led case for fasting insulin, what numbers mean in real life, and why improving insulin sensitivity changes everything - Cortisol confusion: when a standard blood test is the wrong tool, why the cortisol awakening response matters, and what to fix first when you’re exhausted - Sensible testing vs. overwhelm: what to order, when to skip, and how Medicare rules shape GP decisions - Tools in Adrian’s kit: microbiome qPCR, DUTCH-style urinary hormones, leptin, GTT with insulin, and when hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps (from neuropathy to post-op healing) - Ozempic/GLP-1s without the drama: who they help, key side effects, muscle loss risks, and the habits you must build if you ever come off them - Gluten and gut integrity: why some people choose gluten-free for intestinal permeability—even without a formal intolerance - Adrian’s vision for the next decade: prevention that feels good now, truly patient-centred care, and hospitals that actually support healing Whether you’re navigating hormones, chasing better energy, or just over the “quick fix,” this one’s a grounded roadmap for smart testing, strategic lifestyle changes, and collaborative care that respects your time, budget, and biology.