Men's Health Archives - Fusion Integrative and Functional Medicine

Former Marathoner and Triathlete Achieves Pain Relief with Dr. Jessica Miller’s Functional Medicine Approach

“On January 23, 2023, I set a personal goal of cumulatively swimming 150 miles (equal to the width of the English Channel.) I will complete my goal this week, November 2024. Determining my next challenge comes next. I could not have achieved this without the care and guidance from Dr. Miller.”

When Stuart had exhausted traditional medicine treatments and medications, he refused to give up and sought the guidance of Dr. Jessica Miller, a Marlboro, NJ, physician specialist specializing in Functional and Integrative Medicine.

“When I met Dr. Miller in 2017, my health was a mess,” recalls Stuart G., a retired optical industry professional and competitive athlete. “I was a competitive recreational athlete for over 30 years until health and environmental issues compromised my ability to participate.”

How does Functional Medicine differ from traditional medicine?

Functional and Integrative Medicine differs from the standard healthcare most Americans receive today. Its practitioners diagnose and treat the root causes of illness; this approach combines personalized, science-based, non-invasive therapies and lifestyle adjustments to optimize overall health.

Patients benefit from this type of holistic care that considers diet, stress, environment, and genetics, promoting long-term wellness and disease prevention.

Frustrated, exhausted and in pain

Stuart met with Dr. Miller in 2017 during a particularly difficult time, personally and professionally. Understandably, his worsening mental and physical health, including a significant battle with chronic pain syndrome, was compromising his ability to enjoy his passion for recreational sports.

“Dr. Miller spent a lot of time with me during my initial visits. She analyzed my health history and symptoms and ordered several blood and gene tests,” Stuart explains. “I quickly realized my health issues were going to be treated very differently, which I welcomed.”

After studying his results, Dr. Miller prescribed a new health plan that included changes in diet and lifestyle and the addition of specific supplements to address Stuart’s health deficiencies. His health improvements were significant and sustained far beyond his previous treatment efforts. As needed, he continued to see the doctor to measure his improvement and address any new concerns.

Seeking renewal after a second Covid battle

After a second Covid diagnosis in 2024, Stuart returned to Dr. Miller for guidance to regain his physical strength to start swimming again, a passion for Stuart. “I admire Dr. Miller’s expertise in Functional Medicine and her desire to continuously learn more about this emerging field of medicine.”

Stuart says. “She is at the top of her field and uses the latest clinical studies to benefit her patients.” Since Dr. Miller prescribed specific supplements for Stuart, he has felt strong enough to get back into the pool again, a major milestone to support his mental and physical health.

“I’m especially appreciative that Functional Medicine is non-invasive and does not focus on prescribing pharmaceuticals for every acute and chronic health issue.”

Dr. Miller weighs in on Stuart’s case

“Stuart arrived frustrated and worried about his worsening health symptoms, which had taken over his life,” Dr. Miller explains. “I was impressed how open he was to adopt a different health strategy to address his specific issues, particularly those related to pain management.” Dr. Miller stated that she admired his zest for many types of exercise, which she knew sustained him physically and mentally.

The peace-of-mind of ‘lifestyle medicine’

Today, Stuart says he won’t change his current health management plan without consulting Dr. Miller first. “She improved my health in countless ways, and I have no intention of returning to where I was before I started working with her.”

Stuart offers words of experience to others considering a Functional Medicine doctor: “If you are unsatisfied with your current health plan, you have nothing to lose by meeting with the doctor and learning more about her approach to health and wellness.”

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Functional Medicine and Integrative Health take a more proactive approach to helping treat chronic medical conditions and help support optimal health through all the phases of life. If you’d like to learn more about working with Dr. Miller and her team, call our Practice Manager at 732-631-4410 or click the button below for a no-cost New Patient Discovery Session:

Dr. Jessica Miller’s Functional Medicine approach provided lasting relief and whole-person care for our family.

How Functional Medicine Transformed My Family’s Health Journey: From Eczema to Parkinson’s Support

Sue Milcsik – Fusion IFM Google Review – November 2, 2024

“In 2019, after exhausting every traditional medical option—including visits to our allergist, dermatologist, and primary care physician—I took my 14-year-old daughter to see Dr. Jessica Miller at Fusion Integrative and Functional Medicine in Marlboro. My daughter’s “head-to-toe” eczema left her physically and mentally in distress, but Dr. Miller’s expertise and holistic approach made all the difference.

Dr. Miller began with a comprehensive history and engaged my daughter directly, ensuring her thoughts and feelings were heard. She used clear, visual language to explain potential triggers, ordered thorough lab work, and guided us through a challenging but necessary dietary change. Identifying food allergens and incorporating specific dietary supplements provided significant relief, even though my daughter’s flare-ups persisted due to her year-round swimming.

It was Dr. Miller’s insight that led us to seek further specialist care, and her collaboration with Dr. Jason Miller, a well-known dermatologist, helped us finally understand and address the triggers behind my daughter’s eczema. Dr. Miller’s dedication to treating the root causes and willingness to seek additional support were invaluable.

Jessica Miller, MD, talks with a patient.

Her impact didn’t end there. In 2022, my 22-year-old son, who had struggled with ongoing health issues, was initially skeptical about functional medicine. Yet, after meeting with Dr. Miller, he was impressed: “She connected the biology and the systems; it made sense.” He continues to work with her, making diet changes and seeing a specialist she recommended.

Most recently, in July 2024, my husband was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. The first person I thought of for guidance was Dr. Jessica Miller. As a medical doctor with a background in Physiology and expertise in functional medicine, she gave my husband a comprehensive evaluation. Her approach included lab tests that considered both biological and environmental factors—crucial for a lifelong firefighter. Dr. Miller’s proactive care and compassion address the whole person, not just their symptoms.

Our family’s journey with Fusion Integrative and Functional Medicine has been life-changing, and I’m endlessly grateful for the support and expertise of Dr. Miller and her team.”

Sue Milcsik – Fusion IFM Google Review – November 2, 2024

Start your Functional Health Journey with our specially-priced Fall Packages

Start your Functional Medicine Approach to Health & Wellness

Ready to take control of your health with a compassionate, whole-person approach? Connect with Dr. Jessica Miller, MD, a highly trained integrative and functional medicine doctor, for a free Discovery Consultation.

Limited-Time Functional Health Coach Wellness Package

As we approach the end of 2024, there’s still time to optimize your wellness with a personalized Functional Medicine reboot. Our team developed a specially-priced treatment package with Certified Functional Medicine Health Coach Cortney Goodstadt designed to address key aspects of your health—whether it’s restoring mineral balance, improving gut health, or managing chronic symptoms.

The Cellular Health Reboot package (details below) is suitable for previous patients and those seeking an introduction to an Integrative & Functional health approach, starting with an HTMA (Hair Tissue Minerals Analysis.)

To reserve your package or learn more about how to work with Cortney, call 732-631-4410. We look forward to partnering with you for improved health and wellness!

How to Strengthen Your Body’s Natural Defenses

Building Immune Resilience for Fall

By Jessica Miller, MD – Founder & Medical Director

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.

READ: Five Reasons You Need a Functional Health Coach

Stress Management

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.

In addition, singing, humming, gargling, cold water plunges, vagal nerve stimulation and Dynamic Neural Retraining System (DNRS) can strengthen the parasympathetic nerve system, leading to a more balanced immune response.

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.

Could Adrenal Fatigue Be Sabotaging Your Weight Loss?

Your workout might be the reason you’re not losing weight.

By Cortney Goodstadt, DPT, AFMHC, Fusion IFM Health Coach

When it comes to losing weight, the intensity of your workout might be working against you, especially if you’re dealing with adrenal fatigue. This condition involves an imbalance in hormones produced by the adrenal glands, such as cortisol, which can hinder your weight loss efforts and even lead to weight gain.

Understanding Adrenal Fatigue

Adrenal fatigue occurs when you have a prolonged period of excessive cortisol. The prolonged excess cortisol eventually downregulates the brain’s signaling to the adrenal gland. This results in decreased cortisol production, leading to hormone imbalances that affect your body’s ability to manage stress, energy and metabolism.

Symptoms include feeling constantly run down, brain fog, poor sleep quality, salt cravings–and unexplained weight gain, particularly around the belly. If these signs sound familiar, your overtaxing exercise regime could be the culprit.

Why High-Intensity Workouts Can Stall Weight Loss

High-intensity workouts–running, cardio boot camps, CrossFit or competitive sports seem like the key to maximum weight loss, but if your HPA (hypothalamus, pituitary, adrenal) axis is disrupted, these exercises can increase cortisol production. In a healthy body, this helps manage energy levels. However, if your cortisol levels are already imbalanced, your body may start storing fat instead of burning it—especially in the abdominal area. This can lead to a frustrating cycle where the more you work out, the more weight you gain.

Learn more about the Functional Medicine supplements, tests and products curated and endorsed by Fusion IFM:

The Right Exercise for Adrenal Health

Low-impact activities are often better for those with adrenal fatigue. Walking for an hour or more at a leisurely pace can help your body recover and gradually return to a state where it can effectively burn fat again. Other beneficial exercises include yoga, which helps reduce stress, water aerobics, which is gentle on the joints and light strength training, which can build muscle without stressing your system.

Listen to Your Body

A good rule of thumb for adrenal fatigue sufferers–if you work out and still feel energy-depleted 30 minutes or more later–you have gone too hard. This is a sign that you are not doing the right kind of workout for your body. Rather than pushing through the over-exertion and demanding your body exercise again, do the opposite and give it a rest.

Remember, the goal of exercise should be to boost your energy levels and overall well-being. If a workout leaves you feeling depleted, it’s a sign that your routine needs to be adjusted.

Personalized Functional Health Support for Your Fitness Goals

Finding the right real-life fitness balance is essential for optimal health. No one knows your body better than you do. If something doesn’t feel right when you workout, it probably requires professional guidance to help identify the issue and help to avoid injury and possible medical complications.

As a Certified Functional Medicine Health Coach with a lifelong devotion to fitness, I would be happy to meet with you and determine the ideal fitness strategy for your life today and in the future. Contact me at 732-631-4410 or click below to schedule your no-fee Discovery Consultation:

*This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used in place of an individualized healthcare visit.

30 Plant Foods to Transform Your Health

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.

Click Here for Your 30 Plant Food Weekly Tracker

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

Fermented foods: Sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, olives, pickles

Fiber-rich foods: leafy greens, berries, legumes, nuts/seeds

Cruciferous vegetables: broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage

Polyphenol-rich foods: dark chocolate, green tea, berries, pomegranate, cranberry

Omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods: flax and chia seeds

Herbs and spices: ginger, turmeric, cilantro, parsley, cumin, fennel, oregano, thyme, rosemary, dill & more!

Recipe: Try my favorite Brussels Sprouts salad

Click Here for Your 30 Plant Food Weekly Tracker

Using Plant-Based Foods as Medicine for your Gut

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.

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**Supporting Research Articles:**

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.

Fusion’s July Newsletter is Here!

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/

The Impact of Sugar on Prostate Health: What Every Man Should Know

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.

4. Prostate Screening: Early detection of prostate issues is crucial. Men over 50 or younger with a family history should discuss prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing with their healthcare provider. Learn more here: https://www.cdc.gov/prostate-cancer/screening/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prostate/basic_info/screening.htm

READ: “Five Reasons You Need a Functional Health Coach”

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.