As the cooler months approach and we prepare for the transition into fall, it’s essential to consider how we can strengthen our immune systems. At Fusion Integrative and Functional Medicine, we believe building immune resilience is not just about avoiding illness but boosting your body’s natural defenses through personalized nutrition, lifestyle modifications and targeted supplementation—an approach echoed by renowned Functional Medicine experts like Dr. Mark Hyman and Dr. Josh Axe.
Vitamin D and Antioxidants
Dr. Hyman, a leading voice in integrative medicine, emphasizes the importance of maintaining optimal vitamin D levels for immune health. As sunlight decreases in the fall and winter months, many people experience a drop in vitamin D levels, crucial for activating the immune system. We recommend incorporating high-quality, synergistic vitamin D supplements and dietary sources like fatty fish to support your body’s immune response. In addition, I cannot overstate the role of antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, in reducing oxidative stress and boosting immunity. I also recommend incorporating a variety of brightly-colored fruits and vegetables to boost plant polyphenol attributes.
Gut Health
Dr. Axe underscores the importance of gut health in supporting immunity.
Over 70% of your immune system resides in the gut; the health of your microbiome plays a vital role in protecting your body against pathogens.
He emphasizes incorporating prebiotic- and probiotic-rich foods such as fermented vegetables, kefir, kimchee and yogurt to balance gut bacteria and enhance immune function. Targeted probiotic supplements may also be recommended to restore and maintain a healthy gut environment.
We emphasize adopting stress management tools to protect the body’s immune ecosystem. Chronic stress can lead to disruptive imbalances in cortisol levels, which can significantly jeopardize the immune system. By integrating stress reduction techniques, simple efforts like interacting with pets, meditation, spending time in nature, socializing with trusted friends and family and committing to quality sleep can regulate stress hormones and help fortify your immune defenses.
At Fusion Integrative & Functional Medicine, we take a comprehensive approach to warding off negative factors that can debilitate health and longevity. By blending Functional and Integrative Medicine, personalized nutrition and lifestyle modifications, we help our patients build a platform of health and strength to ward off health risks throughout life.
If you’re ready to optimize your immune health and strengthen your body’s natural defenses, call Fusion Integrative and Functional Medicine (732-631-4410) and sign up for your free personalized Discovery Consultation.
Wishing you a happy and healthy fall season!
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used in place of an individualized healthcare visit.
Our thanks to Janine for her thoughtful and detailed review of her health and treatment experience with Functional Medicine specialist Jessica Miller, MD, Practice Manager Mara, and our entire Fusion IFM team.Patient outcome and satisfaction are paramount to everything we do.
“I have been a patient of Dr. Miller‘s for over five years. I have a complicated medical history, including autoimmune, fibromyalgia and an array of chronic illnesses, which ended my career over 12 years ago.
I have been to every healthcare specialist, including conventional and holistic-minded doctors in New York and top-notch hospitals. While some offered relief, none of them ever really got to the root cause of my myriad issues. I was often recommended antidepressants and more prescriptions.
Dr. Miller did extensive bloodwork and left no stone unturned. She takes the time to listen carefully and spends an entire hour not only going over my medical history and any recent changes, but also listening to personal issues affecting my health, wellness and ability to heal.
Because of Dr. Miller’s extensive experience, she does not hesitate to research everything, including any conventional medications and treatments, and will give her highly educated opinion. She is always learning and keeping up with the newest advances in not only Functional Medicine but also conventional medicine to stay informed and offer her patients the highest level of treatment.
I also attended a very informative wellness workshop with her Health Coach team consisting of Brianna and Cortney. It was a four-week series, and it included a wealth of information including dietary changes, gut health and more to encourage simple lifestyle changes to improve overall wellness.
Her team at Fusion IFM is so empathetic and truly treats every patient like family. I cannot say enough about her Practice Manager, Mara. From the first day I met her, she truly took an interest in knowing me personally and going above and beyond to always make sure she was available to help. Our visits always start and end with a hug, and I truly cannot imagine where I would be today without Dr. Miller and her staff.
Mara Munoz
Cortney Goodstadt, DPT, AFMHC
Honestly, it feels like I am talking to a friend, not my Doctor, and I feel the same way about her team, especially Mara.
Today, I feel for the first time in many years, I have a better understanding of my conditions and what my triggers are and can address my issues with a plan put in place by Dr. Miller to keep me on the path to optimal health. I would highly recommend Dr. Jessica Miller and her team. I am extremely grateful for the excellent care and compassion I have received.”
We’d love to speak with you about your health and wellness goals and challenges. Call our friendly team at 732-631-4410 or click below to speak with our team or schedule a Free Fusion Discovery Session with our team:
By Brianna Manginelli, MS, CNS, LDN, DSS – Fusion Certified Functional Health Nutritionist & Health Coach
It is no secret that the microorganisms living in our gut play a crucial role in our overall health, influencing everything from our digestion and immune system to our mood and brain function. In fact, there are between 10 and 100 times MORE microbes than human cells in our body, and approximately 70% of our immune system lies within our digestive tract.
Research shows that “diet has the most powerful influence on gut microbial communities in healthy human subjects.” The majority of the Standard American Diet (SAD) is of limited or no benefit to the microbiota in the lower gut.
Since most of the SAD diet consists of refined carbohydrates, it is readily absorbed in the upper part of the GI tract, leaving minimal amounts of minerals, vitamins and other necessary nutrients available for our microbiome.
Constipation is an issue many people struggle with on a daily basis. Part of our treatment approach is to prescribe personalized dietary modifications including a decreased intake of refined carbohydrates and the addition of 30 plant foods weekly. We have noticed that this has changed patients’ microbiome in a beneficial way.
As an example, my patient had been having difficulty with constipation. Her microbiome began to shift after prescribing a decrease in refined carbohydrates and adding 30 plant foods weekly.
The increase in fiber (from the plant food consumption), various phytonutrients feeding the beneficial species residing in her gut and structured water obtained from these plant foods began to “wake up” her digestive system to function the way it was designed.
Keep in mind that increased fiber and plant food consumption is not appropriate for everyone, depending on where they are in their healing journey. Always consult with a health and nutrition specialist for customized treatment if you are experiencing digestive dysfunction.
Below, I’ll explain how and why to incorporate 30+ plant foods into your weekly routine to significantly improve the diversity and health of your microbiome.
Gut and Immune Health
Eating 30 or more plant foods per week provides a variety of phytochemicals, polyphenols and other bioactive compounds that can inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria while promoting beneficial bacteria growth, provide anti-inflammatory benefits, improve gut-barrier function, and aid in the production of beneficial metabolites such as butyrate, acetate and propionate to name a few.
Mental Health
In addition to improved digestive and immune health, a healthy microbiome has been linked to improved mental health outcomes, including:
1. Reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety: A study published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine found that patients with depression had improved symptoms after receiving a fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) (2).
Research published in the journal Neurogastroenterology and Motility found that individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) experienced reduced anxiety symptoms after receiving FMT (3).
2. Improved cognitive function: A study published in the journal Neurology found that older adults with higher levels of certain gut bacteria had improved cognitive function and reduced risk of dementia (4).
3. Increased production of neurotransmitters: The gut microbiome produces neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are essential for mood regulation.
Five Tips to Build 30+ Plant-Based Foods into Your Diet:
Vegan tacos with baked chickpeas, avocado, sauce and vegetables.
1. Start your day with a savory/plant-rich breakfast: Incorporate leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds into your breakfast routine.
2. Eat various colorful vegetables: Aim for at least 5 servings of different colored vegetables each day. EAT A RAINBOW!
3. SPICE IT UP! Fresh herbs and spices count toward your 30. The more variety of herbs and flavors, the better!
4. Incorporate legumes into your meals, if you tolerate them. Legumes are rich in prebiotic fiber and can be added to soups, salads, and stir-fries.
5. Emphasize eating WHOLE FOODS and plant-rich dishes, which can account for 6+ plant foods in one meal. Think salads topped with legumes/fruits/nuts/seeds, vegetable medley soups with fresh herbs and spices, creative smoothies and stir-fry with fresh herbs and seeds.
The Best Plant Foods to Improve Your Microbiome
Prebiotic-rich foods: Asparagus, bananas and plantains, onions, garlic
As a functional medicine nutritionist, I am passionate about the incredible impact that a diverse, plant-based diet can have on our gut health, immune function and mental well-being. By incorporating 30 or more plant foods into your weekly routine, you nourish your body with essential nutrients and foster a thriving and balanced microbiome.
This simple yet powerful dietary shift can improve digestion, immunity, and even cognitive function. I invite you to take the first step on this transformative journey today. Don’t forget to download your 30 Plant Food Weekly Tracker to start your journey to improved health and wellness TODAY!
About Functional Nutritionist & Certified Health Coach Brianna Manginelli
Brianna is a certified functional nutritionist at Fusion Integrative & Functional Medicine in Marlboro, NJ. She specializes in working with people managing medical conditions or seeking to optimize their health using whole foods, nutraceuticals and other integrative modalities. To learn more or speak with Brianna, call 732-631-4410 or email her directly at brianna@fusionifm.com.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used in place of an individualized healthcare visit.
1. **Suez et al. (2014)**: “Microbiome analysis reveals large interindividual variation in the gut microbiota of healthy individuals.” Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology.
2. **Collins et al. (2013)**: “Fecal microbiota transplantation for recurrent Clostridium difficile infection.” Psychosomatic Medicine.
3. **Bergmann et al. (2018)**: “Fiber-rich diets are associated with improved gut health.” Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
4. **Cryan et al. (2019)**: “The gut-brain axis: The role of gut bacteria in neurodegenerative diseases.” Journal of Neurology.
5. **Kong et al. (2019)**: “Dietary fiber intake and risk of depression.” Journal of Affective Disorders.
Our Functional Medicine experts offer all the Integrative Medicine tools you need for a healthier New Jersey summer!
This month, Dr. Jessica Miller and her dedicated Fusion IFM team highlight essential practices for men to enhance prostate health, emphasizing the significant impact of diet, particularly refined sugar, on prostate function. By integrating these Functional Medicine strategies, men can take proactive steps to improve their overall well-being and reduce the risk of prostate-related diseases. Check out our July newsletter:
We also delve into the importance of making informed daily lifestyle choices, combining integrative treatments with traditional medicine for a holistic approach to health.
Our Certified Functional Health Nutritionist and Health Coach Brianna Manginelli is sharing a delicious Brussels Sprouts Salad recipe featuring a creamy tahini dressing that will be perfect for your summertime entertaining. This refreshing dish is perfect for summer gatherings and adds a nutritious boost to your diet.
Certified Health Coach Cortney Goodstadt provides valuable advice on reducing exposure to environmental toxins, a crucial aspect of maintaining long-term health. With a special promo code for discounts on Designs for Health products and a link to schedule a free Discovery Session, the newsletter is packed with resources and actionable steps to help you lead a healthier, fuller life. Dive into these expert tips and discover how Integrative and Functional Medicine can transform your health journey.
We’d love to meet you and learn more about your personal health challenges and goals. Call our practice manager, Mara Munoz, at 732-631-4410 or email us at info@fusionifm.com to learn more about Fusion’s holistic health services and review some of the conditions we treat here: https://fusionifm.com/services/
By Jessica Miller, MD – Founder & Medical Director
June is Men’s Health Month, a perfect time to re-focus on prostate health—a critical yet often overlooked aspect of men’s well-being. As an Integrative & Functional Medicine physician, I’ve seen firsthand how lifestyle choices, particularly diet, can protect or adversely affect the health of the prostate.
One major dietary risk factor is sugar. Below, I explain the connection between sugar and prostate health and explore strategies to optimize prostate function:
The Sugar-Prostate-Cancer Connection
Emerging research suggests a strong link between high sugar intake and prostate health issues, including prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and obesity—all factors that contribute to prostate problems.
A diet high in refined sugars can create an environment conducive to cancer cell growth because sugar fuels insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF), both of which can promote cancer cell proliferation. High blood sugar levels can also suppress the immune system, making it harder for the body to combat cancer cells.
Four Simple Steps to Optimize Prostate Health
Integrative & Functional Medicine emphasizes a holistic approach, addressing the root causes of acute and chronic health issues, rather than merely treating symptoms. To offset prostate disease risk, I recommend the following action steps, which are simple, direct and achievable:
I. Reduce Foods with Processed Sugar: Limiting refined sugars and high-glycemic foods can help lower insulin levels and reduce inflammation. Choose whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. (You can quell sugar cravings within about 10 days of reducing intake.)
2. Keep Your Weight in Check: Obesity is a significant risk factor for prostate issues. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can help manage weight effectively.
3. Anti-inflammatory Diet: Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties–berries, leafy greens, nuts and fatty fish. Aim to eat a rainbow of nutritious foods daily.
Functional Medicine Approach to Address Prostate Conditions
For men diagnosed with BPH or prostate cancer, functional medicine offers integrative treatments that complement conventional approaches:
Herbal Supplements: Saw palmetto and beta-sitosterol are known to support prostate health and alleviate symptoms of BPH. Mushrooms such as Lion’s Mane and Turkey Tail help to support the immune system and encourage the body to find/eliminate cancer cells.
Nutritional Therapy: Tailored dietary plans focusing on reducing inflammation and boosting immune function.
Stress Management: Chronic stress can exacerbate prostate issues. Techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, and meditation can be beneficial.
Fusion IFM Specializes in Functional Health for Men
As an Integrative and Functional Medicine physician, I aim to empower men with ‘real-life’ education and best practices to take charge of their prostate health. By making informed lifestyle choices and seeking integrative treatments, men can significantly improve their quality of life and reduce the risk of prostate-related diseases.
Protect your prostate—and your overall health and wellness–by breaking the sugar habit once and for all. You’ll be amazed by how much better you look and feel every day. Feel free to schedule a consultation with me or a free Discovery Session with my team for personalized health guidance.
Jessica Miller, MD, is double Board Certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation as well as Integrative Medicine. She is also a Certified Institute for Functional Medicine Practitioner, located in Marlboro, NJ. Learn more about her approach and services here.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used in place of an individualized healthcare visit.
As we struggle to overcome the obesity epidemic in the US, the new FDA-approved weight loss medications are unquestionably front of mind. These medications offer promising results, but at what cost? Whether you are using GLP-1 medications or considering them, it is essential to be aware of the possible side effects and complications that go along with taking any medication.
Know the Risks!
GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic work by reducing hunger signals and delaying stomach emptying, ultimately leading to weight loss. The most common side effects reported to date have been malnourishment, due to a dramatic reduction in calorie intake, and significant gastrointestinal symptoms.
Several patients have also reported facial and body muscle mass loss. The term “Ozempic Face” refers to a hollowed appearance, changes in facial features or an increase in facial wrinkling as a result of rapid weight loss. Loss of muscle in the rest of the body can decrease balance, fracture risk and overall strength and coordination.
To overcome facial and body muscle loss, we recommend whole food nourishment with ample protein and incorporating light strength training a few times a week. Both can effectively preserve essential muscle mass, particularly in people over 40.
Today, the biggest unknown is the long-term health ramifications of using weight loss medications for the short-term and long-term. Nonetheless, the FDA has required pharmaceutical companies to add patient warning messages to the product packaging.
Potential Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy and Zepbound side effects
To date, researchers have reported these possible health complications GLP-1 medication users should watch for:
Gastrointestinal Issues
Gastroparesis, where the movement of food out of the stomach is slowed or stalled, has been identified by clinicians as a potential danger.
Bowel and bile duct blockage, both painful and dangerous conditions where the flow of food in the intestines is blocked, sometimes requiring emergency surgery.
More common short-term discomforts include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These side effects are usually mild and temporary; although they sometimes require discontinued use.
Gallstone Attacks (gallbladder attack)
The National Institute of Health reported this year that GLP-1 RAs may be associated with an increased risk of gallbladder or biliary diseases since GLP-1 inhibits gallbladder motility and delays gallbladder emptying by suppressing the secretion of the hormone cholecystokinin.
Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
GLP-1 medications help your body produce more insulin, which can lead to blood sugar levels dropping too low. This is more likely if you take GLP-1 medications with other diabetes medications like sulfonylureas or insulin. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include sweating, shakiness, and dizziness.
Increased Risk of Thyroid and Other Cancers
The FDA now requires a black box warning about this potential risk on these medications. People with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer (medullary thyroid carcinoma), in particular, are advised against using GLP-1 medications.
Pancreatitis
Although less common, some studies have shown an increased risk of pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas, in patients using GLP-1 medications. This risk appears to be higher in people with a history of pancreatitis or risk factors for it, such as heavy alcohol use or gallstones.
In the event you experience discomfort or a negative change in health that lasts more than a few days, contact your healthcare provider for a prompt appointment to discuss your symptoms.
Consider alternative forms of weight management
It is important to consider low to no-risk alternatives such as nutrition and lifestyle changes. Working with a trusted and knowledgeable integrative health practitioner can help you achieve your health and fitness goals with a personalized approach utilizing various tools, nutritional supplements and functional and/or genetic testing when appropriate.
In addition to achieving healthy weight loss while preventing potential serious side-effects associated with medications; opting for this approach can further enhance your immune system, reduce inflammation, improve energy, and help you feel your best!
If you prefer to pursue a drug-free route to weight loss or weight management, contact us at Fusion Integrative & Functional Medicine to set up a prompt appointment to discuss your goals.
Brianna is a certified functional nutritionist at Fusion Integrative & Functional Medicine in Marlboro, NJ. She specializes in working with people managing medical conditions or seeking to optimize their health using whole foods, nutraceuticals and other integrative modalities. To learn more or speak with Brianna, call 732-631-4410 or email her directly at brianna@fusionifm.com.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used in place of an individualized healthcare visit.
Jaclyn Ross, a 41-year-old teacher, battled years of chronic gut problems that not only affected her physical health but also took a toll on her mental well-being. The relentless nature of her symptoms left her feeling frustrated and trapped in a negative mindset. After failed treatment courses with traditional doctors, she was referred to Alexandra Davidson, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, at Fusion Integrative & Functional Medicine in Marlboro, NJ.
Reflecting on her initial consultation, Jaclyn recalls Dr. Alex’s proactive approach to her health struggles: “After studying my New Patient Questionnaire and lab test results, Dr. Alex had a treatment plan ready at my first visit with her,” Jaclyn recalls.
“Her expertise in gut health and personalized approach to helping me was so different from the care I received elsewhere. She created a detailed and proactive treatment plan customized specifically for me.”
Transitioning to a tailored functional medicine treatment plan
Dr. Alex’s integrative treatment plan encompassed a holistic approach, combining targeted supplements with dietary adjustments tailored to her specific needs. “She prescribed a number of supplements and helped me change my diet,” Jaclyn shares, highlighting the comprehensive nature of her treatment plan.
But her health journey didn’t stop there. Recognizing the importance of nutrition in healing her gut, Dr. Alex recommended Jacklyn see Fusion Functional Nutritionist Brianna Manginelli, MS, CNS, LDN, DSS, to use food as another gut-healing mechanism. With Brianna’s expertise, she gained invaluable insights into optimizing her nutrition plan to support digestive health and her body’s health ecosystem. (She also lost 10 pounds in the process.)
“Brianna introduced me to a wider menu of foods and meals that also keep my gut health in check, which is invaluable to me. No one wants to eat the same thing all the time.”
Personalized care for improved gut and holistic health
“Until I met Alexandra and Brianna, I felt more like a number than a person in the traditional medicine arena,” Jaclyn notes. “It’s very meaningful to receive a health treatment plan developed with your unique medical history in mind.”
Through the collaborative efforts of Dr. Alexandra Davidson and Nutritionist Brianna Manganielli, she experienced a remarkable improvement in her health. By addressing the root causes of her gut problems and implementing personalized interventions, Jaclyn regained control over her mental and physical health and vitality.
“Dr. Alex recommended I start a daily gratitude journal focusing on three positive things that happen daily,” Jaclyn explains. “It seems so simple, but journaling has improved my daily life outlook just by documenting the positive aspects of my life.”
Resolving chronic GI issues and improving mental outlook
Jaclyn’s story serves as a real-life testament to the transformative power of functional medicine in overcoming chronic health challenges. It underscores the importance of individualized treatment with an integrated approach that supports the interconnectedness of body, mind and spirit.
This patient’s journey exemplifies how embracing alternative approaches, such as functional medicine, can lead to profound healing, renewed vitality and a return to a thriving quality of life.
“From my perspective as a patient, working with functional medicine healthcare providers has taught me invaluable tools that I will use for the rest of my life, particularly how I look at the actual purpose of food,” Jaclyn notes. “I never realized that food can be used for healing and offsetting symptoms—no prescription medications required!”
To meet with our Integrative and Functional Health experts to improve your overall health or manage a chronic health condition, call our team at 732-631-4410 or email us at info@fusionifm.com for a prompt appointment.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used in place of an individualized healthcare visit.
