Soma Says

Biohack Your Gut Microbiome Like an Elite Athlete!

In this episode of 'Soma Says', Dr. Soma is joined by Dr. Jonathan Scheiman, PhD and Carolina Barsa from FitBiomics, to discuss the intersection of microbiome research and elite athletic performance. They delve into the origins and development of FitBiomics, particularly focusing on their innovative probiotics, Nella and V-Nella, which aim to enhance gut health and overall well-being. Throughout the podcast, they explore how studying the microbiomes of elite athletes can lead to groundbreaking health solutions for the general public. Carolina shares her personal journey with gut health, while Jonathan discusses the scientific foundation behind their products. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of gut health and microbiome technology, especially for women's health and fatigue management. The speakers propose that understanding and optimizing the gut microbiome can offer significant benefits beyond traditional pharmaceutical approaches, making these innovative solutions accessible to many.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:46 Meet the Guests: Dr. Jonathan Scheiman and Carolina Barsa
 
01:49 The Power of the Microbiome
 
04:43 Biohacking and Gut Health
 
08:06 Personal Journeys and Health Challenges
 
12:43 Scientific Insights and Product Benefits
 
17:07 Women's Health and Microbiome
 
28:53 Clinical Studies and Product Validation
 
37:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 
To find out more about Fitbiomics, Dr. Jonathan Scheiman and Carolina Barsa, visit https://fitbiomics.com/

Busting a Move on Infertility

n this episode of 'Soma Says,' Dr. Soma interviews Dr. Sahar Wertheimer, a reproductive endocrinologist specializing in fertility at HRC Fertility in Beverly Hills, CA.  They discuss Dr. Wertheimer’s journey into reproductive medicine, influenced by personal experiences and her community's fertility challenges. The conversation delves into topics such as the diagnosis and impact of PCOS and endometriosis, male infertility, and the role of stress in fertility treatment. Dr. Wertheimer emphasizes the importance of early intervention, patient education, and the need for nuanced medical guidelines. They also discuss the emerging role of medications like Ozempic in fertility treatment, addressing patient shame, and improving accessibility and transparency in healthcare communications through webinars and social media outreach.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:46 Meet Dr. Wertheimer
 
01:55 Dr. Wertheimer's Journey into Reproductive Medicine
 
03:19 Guiding Patients Through Fertility Challenges
 
08:35 Understanding Fertility Tests and Evaluations
 
12:16 Addressing Male Infertility
 
15:36 Impact of PCOS and Endometriosis on Fertility
 
28:16 The Role of Stress and Mental Health in Fertility
 
30:33 Community Outreach and Education
 
33:17 Conclusion and Contact Information
 
To learn more about Dr. Wertheimer, please visit https://www.havingbabies.com/physicians/sahar-wertheimer-md/

Breast Cancer Awareness: I Pink I Can!

Breast Cancer Awareness with Dr. Soma Mandal and Dr. Alison Price
 
In this special episode of 'Soma Says,' Dr. Soma hosts a live session at Poduty LIve Fest 2024 in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Dr. Alison Price, a breast surgical oncologist. They discuss the updated breast cancer screening guidelines advising mammograms starting at age 40, the impact of early detection, and the role of breast density in screening. Dr. Price demystifies misconceptions about breast cancer risk factors and the role of hormone replacement therapy. They explore emerging screening technologies and the positive outcomes of early interventions. The episode highlights the importance of individualized risk assessment and ongoing patient education to improve breast health outcomes.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:42 Special Episode for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
 
01:18 Live Session Introduction
 
02:16 Changes in Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines
 
04:49 Breast Density and Legislative Changes
 
06:09 Individual Risk Factors and Screening
 
07:16 Modifiable and Non-Modifiable Risk Factors
 
08:22 Mammography and Other Screening Modalities
 
09:27 Misconceptions About Breast Cancer
 
13:25 Hormone Replacement Therapy and Breast Cancer
 
18:54 Future of Breast Cancer Detection
 
21:37 Success Stories and Patient Impact
 
23:48 Conclusion and Social Media
 
Dr. Price is a breast surgical oncologist with a practice at Summit Health in New Providence, NJ www.summithealth.com/doctors/alison-price-md
 

Transforming Your Brain Health

In this episode, host Dr. Soma engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Krystal Culler, a holistic brain health expert and founder of the Virtual Brain Health Center. Dr. Culler shares her insights on brain health, the importance of lifestyle factors, and the mission of her center which aims to serve 100,000 brilliant brains in 10 years. They discuss the evolving understanding of brain health, its relationship with heart health, and the latest research and screening tools available. Dr. Culler also busts common myths about brain health and emphasizes the importance of early detection and personalized care plans. Additionally, they explore the role of family support in dementia care and highlight the resources available at the Virtual Brain Health Center, including a comprehensive brain health directory and educational programs. This episode is a treasure trove of information for those looking to prioritize their brain health and support their loved ones.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:46 Meet Dr. Krystal Culler
 
01:51 The Mission of the Virtual Brain Health Center
 
02:54 The Importance of Brain Health
 
06:03 Lifestyle Factors and Brain Health
 
09:30 Myths and Misconceptions About Brain Health
 
12:04 Screening and Early Detection
 
14:50 Supporting Patients and Families
 
20:52 Current Research and Future Directions
 
32:42 Resources and Final Thoughts
 
To learn more about Dr. Culler and the Virtual Brain Health Center, please visit https://virtualbrainhealthcenter.com/

Understanding and Treating Pelvic Pain

Understanding and Managing Pelvic Pain: Insights from Dr. Leia Rispoli
 
In this episode of Soma Says, Dr. Soma hosts Dr. Leia Rispoli, a double board-certified physician in physical medicine, rehabilitation, and pain management. Dr. Rispoli shares her expertise on interventional pain management, focusing on pelvic pain. She details her approach to treating conditions like endometriosis, chronic UTIs, and pelvic floor dysfunction using innovative non-surgical interventions such as neuromodulation, ultrasound-guided procedures, regenerative medicine techniques, and Botox. The discussion emphasizes the importance of listening to patients, personalized care, and the emerging treatments in the field. Dr. Rispoli also highlights the complexities of pelvic pain and offers valuable insights into the emotional and physical impacts on patients.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:47 Meet Dr. Leia Rispoli
 
01:49 Understanding Pelvic Pain
 
04:23 Comprehensive Approach to Pelvic Pain
 
05:18 Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Explained
 
07:11 Emotional and Psychological Impact of Pelvic Pain
 
19:53 Non-Surgical Interventions for Pain Management
 
24:14 Success Stories and Future Modalities
 
28:49 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
 
Dr. Rispoli's website: https://www.leiarispolimd.com/

Medical Gaslighting: Advocating for Women

In this episode of 'Soma Says', Dr. Soma interviews Dr. Heather Hinshelwood, an emergency medicine physician with a Navy background and expertise in integrative and functional medicine. Dr. H shares her journey from treating trauma in the ER to her current practice in South Carolina, focused on restorative health. They discuss the importance of tackling root health issues, effective patient communication, and advocating for women's health, especially around hormone replacement therapy (HRT). They also touch on the socioeconomic and racial disparities in healthcare, emphasizing the need for a holistic, patient-centered approach to treatment. Dr. H provides practical tools for women to advocate for their health and the value of integrating strength training and intermittent fasting into their routines.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:47 Meet Dr. Heather Hinshelwood
 
01:25 Dr. H's Medical Journey
 
03:17 Transition to Functional Medicine
 
04:58 Integrative Approach at the Fraum Center for Restorative Health
 
07:58 Controlled Substance-Free Practice
 
10:01 Addressing Mental Health
 
11:44 Challenges Faced by Women and People of Color in Healthcare
 
18:55 The Importance of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
 
23:51 Empowering Patients to Advocate for Themselves
 
36:18 Practical Tools for Better Health
 
38:37 Conclusion and Contact Information
 
You can find Dr. Hinshelwood at:
 
http://fraum.com/
 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/Heather%20%E2%80%9CDr%20H%E2%80%9D%20(MD,%20FACEP)%20Hinshelwood
 
 

The Magic of Ozempic and Mounjaro: Insights from Dr. Isabel Casimiro

In this episode of Soma Says, Dr. Soma welcomes Dr. Isabel Casimiro, an accomplished endocrinologist, and physician-scientist, to discuss the impact of Ozempic and Mounjaro on diabetes and metabolic disease management. Dr. Casimiro shares her inspiring journey from Southern California to her current practice in Hawaii and details her groundbreaking research. She explains the science behind GLP-1 inhibitors, their benefits, potential side effects, and how they are revolutionizing the treatment of metabolic issues. The discussion also covers patient education, lifestyle changes, and the future of these medications in improving health outcomes.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:43 Meet Dr. Isabel Casimiro
 
01:41 Dr. Casimiro's Journey to Medicine
 
04:02 Understanding How Ozempic and Mounjaro work
 
07:00 Patient Education and Medication
 
09:48 Challenges and Side Effects
 
14:59 Insurance and Accessibility Issues
 
27:48 Future of Ozempic and Mounjaro
 
34:20 Practical Health Tips
 
38:42 Conclusion and Social Media
 
Learn more about Dr. Isabel Casimiro: https://www.queens.org/providers/2551/isabel-casimiro/
 
Dr. Casimiro's blog: https://mudphudmama.com/
 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/drisabelcasimiro/

Unseen Heroes: Advocating for 9/11 Survivors

In this special episode of 'Soma Says', Dr. Soma is joined by Sara Director, a 9/11 survivor and partner at Barasch & McGarry. Sara shares her harrowing experience of witnessing the events of September 11, 2001, and how it propelled her into a career advocating for 9/11 victims. The discussion covers the lasting health impacts of the toxic air in Lower Manhattan, the challenges in recognizing uterine cancer as a 9/11-related illness, and the ongoing efforts to raise awareness and provide support through the Victim Compensation Fund and the World Trade Center Health Program. Sara emphasizes the importance of spreading the word about available resources and the necessity for those affected to come forward and utilize these life-saving programs.
 
00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
 
01:00 Sara's Personal 9/11 Experience
 
03:40 The Ongoing Impact of 9/11
 
04:55 Advocacy for Uterine Cancer Recognition
 
12:44 Challenges and Misconceptions
 
19:46 Spreading Awareness and Advocacy Efforts
 
26:28 Balancing Professional and Personal Life
 
29:20 Conclusion and Call to Action

Scalpel to Needle: Dr. Sina Smith’s Journey to Demystifying Acupuncture

In this episode of 'Soma Says,' host Dr. Soma is joined by Dr. Sina Leslie Smith, an accomplished medical doctor and licensed acupuncturist with extensive training in homeopathic, integrative, culinary, and functional medicine. Dr. Smith shares her personal journey, starting from her early dreams of becoming a surgeon to discovering the transformative power of acupuncture after a debilitating injury. The conversation covers the scientific and traditional aspects of acupuncture, its diverse applications, and common misconceptions. Dr. Smith also discusses her work integrating acupuncture into mainstream medicine, particularly within the Department of Defense, the VA system, and federally qualified health centers. She emphasizes the importance of dietary choices and holistic health practices. The episode concludes with insights into Dr. Smith's educational initiatives
and her book 'Demystifying Acupuncture.'
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:42 Meet Dr. Sina Leslie Smith
 
01:38 Dr. Smith's Journey to Acupuncture
 
04:43 Dr. Soma's Acupuncture Experience
 
07:05 Integrative Medicine and Acupuncture
 
07:41 Challenges and Misconceptions
 
11:05 How Acupuncture Works
 
24:10 Acupuncture in Modern Healthcare
 
31:44 Patient Success Stories
 
34:35 Diet and Lifestyle Tips
 
37:52 Where to Find Dr. Smith
 
39:12 Conclusion and Call to Action
 
Dr. Sina Smith can be found at https://sinasmithmd.com/
 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/sinasmithmd/
 
Find her book, 'Demystifying Acupuncture" on Amazon:
 
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1959608770?maas=maas_adg_5F2C39413B99DDD6F014C0D84E419600_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maas
 

From Puberty to Menopause: Hormones and GI Health with Dr. Aditi Chhada

 
In this episode of Soma Says, host Dr. Soma welcomes Dr. Aditi Chhada, a renowned gastroenterologist specializing in women's GI health at Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey.  Dr. Chhada shares insights on the impact of hormonal fluctuations on the digestive system, the importance of the microbiome, and effective management strategies for GI symptoms during different stages of a woman's life. Listeners will gain invaluable guidance on dietary changes, lifestyle practices, and the role of probiotics in maintaining gut health across reproductive, perimenopausal, and menopausal phases.
 
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
 
00:40 Meet Dr. Aditi Chhada
 
01:55 Women's Health and GI: A Deep Dive
 
04:36 Hormonal Fluctuations and GI Health
 
06:07 Menstrual Cycle and GI Symptoms
 
09:14 Perimenopause and Menopause: GI Issues
 
11:33 The Role of the Microbiome
 
13:14 Antibiotics and the Microbiome
 
14:55 Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
 
17:28 Probiotics: Do They Help?
 
19:39 Common GI Conditions in Women
 
22:37 Future Research and Final Thoughts
 
25:24 Conclusion and Takeaways
 
Dr. Chhada's profile: https://www.ganjllc.com/physician/dr-aditi-chhada/