Ep 20: Your doctor is treating the wrong problem | Dr. Rachel Stricker

In this conversation, I speak with Dr. Rachel Stricker, who shares her journey to becoming a naturopathic physician, her path to medicine, and the nuances that unite and separate allopathic from naturopathic medicine. Dr. Rachel Stricker is a licensed naturopathic physician and health educator with nearly two decades of experience in integrative primary care, health psychology, and movement-based medicine. Her work bridges nutrition science, stress physiology, mental health, and exercise, with a focus on a sustainable, whole-food, plant-based approach to wellness.Rachel is also a PhD candidate researching the gut-brain axis and mind-body medicine, and regularly teaches yoga, cooking, and health education in both clinical and community settings.Enjoy listening in.We covered:- Core root causes of health issues and why focusing on the entire spectrum of health is important- The role of inflammation in disease and going to the root-cause makes the most sense- The gut-brain axis and mental health: why both are interconnected- Lifestyle modifications for sustainable wellness and getting back to full health- The difference between naturopathic and allopathic medicine, and why both have their strengths- Understanding stress physiology & metabolic health Chapters00:00 Introduction to Naturopathic Medicine02:42 Dr. Rachel Stricker's Journey to Naturopathy05:40 Understanding Naturopathy vs. Allopathic Medicine08:30 The Current State of Modern Health11:06 The Gut-Brain Connection and Its Importance14:05 Exploring the Quantum Doctor and Personal Philosophy23:29 The Intersection of Spirituality and Science24:48 Questioning Religious Trauma and Personal Beliefs26:13 Understanding the Three Brains: Head, Heart, and Gut28:43 Lifestyle Modifications for Sustainable Wellness32:54 Adapting Exercise to Individual Needs36:50 The Impact of Chronic Stress on Health40:30 Epigenetics: Controlling Our Genetic Destiny44:08 The Role of Inflammation in Disease46:18 Empowerment Through Consciousness48:31 Generational Health and Legacy52:38 The Role of Nutrition in Chronic Disease58:00 Holistic Approach to Autoimmune Diseases01:02:55 Defining Health: Quality of Life and Self-Understanding01:09:38 Introduction to Naturopathy and Holistic Health01:10:49 Key Takeaways on Health and WellnessYou can learn more about Dr. Rachel Stricker and her work at the Mederi Center below:https://drrachelstricker.com/If you're a career-driven parent over 40 who wants to use evidence-based exercise, nutrition, and psychology for your health, the VBL Podcast is your new health and fitness resource.Learn how to create a lean, strong, and healthy body in less time while feeling confident in your health. Every Friday, we share practical tips to build optimal health and strength in minimal time.Get free access to our 9-day body transformation course and newsletter below:https://www.veganfitnessredefined.com/newsletter-1Stay connected:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabriel.zhanayInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabriel.zhanay/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriel-zhanay-522153147/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gabriel.zhanay