Endocrine System Issues Archives »

Beat Inflammation: Lower Insulin & Cholesterol with Bioidentical Hormones

August 27, 2021 | Sex Hormone Imbalances

Declining hormone levels is a natural process as we age that may lead to fatigue, weight gain, insulin resistance, elevated cholesterol and reduced quality of life. We’re familiar with the importance of maintaining healthy levels of hormones, insulin, and cholesterol, but did you know that there is a close relationship between all three of these? Time and time again I see perimenopausal and postmenopausal women that suddenly find their insulin and cholesterol levels elevated, creating an inflammatory response. Cholesterol and Hormones:Cholesterol is needed to make both sex and adrenal hormones. If you have low cholesterol, your body isn’t able to transport hormones efficiently. and as hormones decline, the body produces more cholesterol to help produce more hormones. Therefore cholesterol levels increase as hormones decrease. Insulin and Hormones:Having a balance of hormones helps lower insulin. Excess estrogen can increase cortisol and therefore insulin. In addition, having too little progesterone can have the same effect. … Continued

Micronutrient Testing: It’s Not Just About the Values

September 19, 2019 | Naturopathic Medicine

I get comments frequently that switching from an engineering career to naturopathic medicine had to be a big change. While this may be true, the problem-solving aspect of my engineering degree i use everyday in my practice. The body is very complex and when dealing with chronic health issues it’s not always easy to find the underlying cause. Solving these complexities is one of my favorite parts in helping others. The Micronutrient TestOne of the tools I use to help me is the Micronutrient Test. This test looks at both serum values and cellular values for 48 vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fats. The serum values depict what is available for the body to use and the cellular values depict what the body is actually using. This helps me differentiate between a true deficiency or malabsorption issues which may be due to intestinal malabsorption, genetic variations, or oxidative stress. Here is what the patterns … Continued

Natural Treatment for Endometriosis: Dr. Melanie’s Story

August 21, 2019 | Naturopathic Medicine

Endometriosis is a painful condition that effects 1 in 10 women. Natural treatments for endometriosis aim to treat the underlying cause. Many women suffer from endometriosis on a physical and emotional level, and may feel that long-term relief is hopeless. Natural treatments for endometriosis, including diet and supplementation, have worked for many women, including Dr. Melanie who suffered with endometriosis and other medical issues until she found a naturopathic doctor to give her a new life without chronic pain.Dr. Melanie’s StoryI had always dealt with painful periods. I thought this was the norm. In my late 20’s the pelvic pain increased and became constant. At first, I was diagnosed with yeast infections even though cultures came back negative. Then I was told I had fibromyalgia and I was told it was “all in my head”. The numerous pelvic exams and pelvic ultrasounds left me on the couch in pain for days. I then … Continued

Balancing Hormones for Every Woman

February 2, 2019 | Naturopathic Medicine

PMS and menopause are a challenge for every woman at some point. While symptoms of PMS or menopause can be difficult to manage, understanding the many factors that are at play give you the tools to cope. As a naturopathic doctor, I use natural methods to help balance hormones.Cholesterol and HormonesCholesterol is often high during peri-menopause and menopause to compensate for the decreasing levels of other hormones in the body, such as estrogen. Cholesterol is needed to make both sex and adrenal hormones. Hormones are the messengers of the endocrine system, and cholesterol is key to transporting hormones to the correct receptor sites on the cells. If you have low cholesterol, your body isn’t able to transport hormones efficiently, and if you have high cholesterol you may not have enough hormones getting into your cells. Low hormonal levels caused by cholesterol imbalance can result in symptoms such as fatigue, … Continued

6 Preventative Words of Advice from a Naturopath

September 10, 2018 | Naturopathic Medicine

I guess I was naive to think that cancer would not touch our family. It has become so common.

Micronutrient Support for Overworked Adrenals

August 24, 2018 | Naturopathic Medicine

Supporting every aspect of your physical, mental and emotional body is always important. It’s especially important to be intentional with supporting your adrenal function when going through difficult times. Emotional and mental stress can become so burdensome that your body takes over the responsibility of coping in an effort to give your tired mind and heart a break. This is something to be thankful for. Overtime, however, this can result in overworked adrenals, as well as other physical issues.Without proper balance between cortisol (aka the stress hormone) and DHEA (the hormone that balances cortisol), cortisol becomes a burden on the body. If left untreated, this can result in adrenal fatigue. Supporting the adrenals with targeted nutrition and supplementation can make a big difference in coping with unavoidable stresses. Here are some micronutrients that can relieve overworked adrenals:Vitamin C: Vitamin C depletion is very common in adrenal fatigue. It supports adrenals and … Continued

Are Allergies Causing You Anxiety?

June 1, 2018 | Naturopathic Medicine

Is your sleep disturbed? Are you tossing and turning, or maybe having a hard time falling and staying asleep? Are you feeling more stressed out than normal? Do you feel depressed but don’t know why? There are many factors that cause insomnia, depression and anxiety, but one of the most overlooked causes is allergies. While taking an antihistamine can treat runny nose and itchy eyes, long term use can exaggerate sleep disturbances and mood issues. What are histamines? Histamines are stimulatory neurotransmitters (brain chemicals). Our bodies naturally have histamine circulating, which helps control energy levels, motivation, and the sleep-wake cycle. Histamine is an important neurotransmitter but when it increases due to a toxin or insect bite, other neurotransmitters such as epinephrine (adrenaline) may be affected. Epinephrine helps lower large increases of histamine. While allergies often present as itchy eyes or sinus congestion, anxiety and insomnia are also common symptoms due to the increase … Continued

Don’t Write Lectins Out of Your Diet… Yet

April 5, 2018 | Naturopathic Medicine

Benefits of LectinsLectins are proteins that bind carbohydrates. By binding to carbohydrates during digestion, they reduce the glycemic effects of food. By stabilizing blood sugar, there may be benefits such as weight loss, sustained energy, improved focus, and reduced blood pressure. Many foods with lectins are nutrient dense foods such as beans, nuts, tomatoes, eggplant and peppers. Plant lectins are thought to be a defense. They protect plants against pathogens and insects similar to phytochemical in plants. For this reason, plant lectins offer anti-microbial properties and immunity support. Problem with Lectins One common lectin that poses issues is wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) lectin. This lectin is found in wheat as well as other cereal grains including the sprouted forms. Like gluten, it may cause inflammation in the body, not only in the gastrointestinal system, but also may affect the endocrine, neurological and immune systems.A diet that has received press lately is the lectin free diet. This … Continued

The Holistic Connection Between Hormones, Insulin and Cholesterol

February 26, 2018 | Sex Hormone Imbalances

We’re all familiar with the importance of maintaining healthy levels of hormones, insulin, and cholesterol, but did you know that there is a close relationship between all three of these?

Anxiety or Digestive Issues? Start by Testing Your Micronutrients

February 14, 2018 | Micronutrients

Micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) are the building blocks for good health. Without proper nutrition, many people can experience chronic symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, digestive issues and more.

Christina Garten

22:48 09 Feb 20

Hidden little 'gem' tucked away in the corner of 86th/Westfield Rd, in Indianapolis. Kim and Rosa are two of the best instructors I've ever had. Charlie is great too, I'll never forget a restorative class he taught.You know it's good when they can talk you into a pose, without using too many brain cells. Don't know your left from right that's ok, they've taught me so much over the years. When I'm practicing in my living room I can hear their cues in my head. If you are over the hype or want a change of pace, this place has it all. No pressure, no sales gimmicks, just straight up honest to goodness yoga for all levels.

Sarah Shaffer

16:06 08 Feb 20

This space offers a vast array of health-forward services. I have loved using the infrared sauna as a means to detoxify. The staff are welcoming and help to explain each service. Recently, I purchased a private yoga session for my significant other to learn more holistic techniques to support with stress management and chronic back pain. Easy and convenient parking (free)-I'd highly recommend!

Caitlin Murphy

18:59 11 Jan 20

I've been going to see Sara for acupuncture at Dragonfly for several weeks now and have been very happy with my experience there. I am new to acupuncture and was a little apprehensive, but Sara put me right at ease. She was a nurse for several years so I appreciate how she has experience with both Eastern and Western medicine. She always explains things before she does them and asks a lot of questions to maximize my benefit. I have personally noticed an improvement in my sleep, temperature regulation, decrease in headaches, and overall mood. Dragonfly is conveniently located and it's been easy to book appointments that work with my schedule. They also have a wide variety of other health services available and yoga classes, but I have not taken advantage of those yet.

Stephen Kenney

00:02 13 Aug 19

I have never been flexible, but in my later years I began to experience pain. Kim's yoga class was just what I needed. Even though there are things I still can't do, just trying them helped me feel better. She's very encouraging and very patient. Don't think you can't do this. Try it!

Rosa O'Connor

18:16 12 Aug 19

Dragonfly 360 is a warm & welcoming place to come to practice yoga. One of the oldest in the city, it has a true vibe of the real and total essence of the ancient discipline. The space is a sanctuary that receives all who arrive with an embrace; new students or seasoned yogis. We are blessed to have this place to gather, to make new friends, to share with old yoga buddies, to laugh and to cry together. With utmost gratitude I say thank you to Melanie and Erin!

Lisa Jackson

18:40 11 Aug 19

Why oh why oh why would Dragonfly 360 fire their very best teacher? Mike Camps Sunday and Wednesday classes were great. Wonderful atmosphere and fantastic music (not the standard yoga gong bells...instead Bruce Springsteen, Santana, Alexi Murdoch, Gary Clark Jr, Mac DeMarco...terrific class and cohesive student group ;this was my “church” on Sunday mornings. He’s been relieved of his classes for no good reason that we know. Ill informed business decision on part of owner/manager. Very disappointed am done with Dragonfly.

Etelka Froymovich

08:28 11 Aug 19

I am very disappointed in the business decision that was made by the studio to part with our favorite teacher.Unique class with wonderful Sunday morning yogies. I was a Sunday morning participant for 14 years. It may been a business decision but it is very poor customer service . As they say all good thinks come to an end .

Julia Whiteker

20:02 08 Aug 19

I have been going to Dragonfly 360 (and All People as it was know previously) for eight years. My absolutely favorite yoga teacher has been teaching classes there for ten years and his Sunday morning class is a touchstone in my life. I literally learned to how to relax my muscles and accept my body in that class. Today I learned that the studio has decided to fire that teacher. I'm so upset and confused. The class was almost always full. They said it was a business decision. I'm heartbroken.

Susan Holewinski

20:28 14 Jul 19

Dr. Melanie and her staff are so pleasant and helpful. She uses science to support your nutritional needs. The yoga teachers are sensitive the the students' needs. I always look forward to visiting the calm and serene environment of Dragonfly 360.

Angie Garrett

23:19 15 Mar 19

I go to Dragonfly 360 Yoga & Wellness for both naturopathic services with Dr. Melanie and acupuncture with Sara. They are both amazing at what they do and they seem to be genuinely interested in helping you feel better.

Kelsey Gmelich

18:20 15 Mar 19

I would highly recommend Dr. Melanie to anyone looking to find out the root cause(s) of their health struggles and treat them holistically. Dr. Melanie actually listens to you (which you don't often find in a doc) and runs testing to determine exactly where to start and what imbalances to address. I have felt terrible for the past 5 years and my doctors never listened-they did some minor testing and never went in depth to really find out what was going on. Dr. Melanie is different- she doesn't just give you a quick fix band-aid, she really tries to heal the root causes of your health issues. She has helped me balance my hormones, heal my digestion, and we are now working on my adrenals. My cycles are regular again and I no longer have depression/anxiety now that my hormones are balanced and I feel so much better. If no one else will listen to you when you say you don't feel well/right, go to Dr. Melanie. You know your body better than anyone, so don't hesitate to take a proactive stance and work with someone who cares.

tyler rich

18:29 14 Mar 19

DragonFly 360 has been a great help for me personally. I have used their NAET (allergy elimination) therapy it was great to help me tolerate and be able to eat foods that i had some reactivity with, i have also had success with their acupuncture and zero balancing services. The staff is always personal and professional. Thank you Dr. Melanie and your whole staff!

Lisa Mayer

03:12 10 Aug 18

This place has changed my life. I've had to avoid casein (milk) for over two years because I would wake up with trouble breathing. Not only did the NAET treatments (you can find articles on them on psychology today as well as the NAET website) cure me of my milk intolerance, Dr. Melanie also recommended all natural remedies to help my body heal. She has truly been the answer to our prayers that I would heal from food intolerances. If you're suffering like I was, you don't have to. Take a chance on her. Thank you, Dr. Melanie!

semhar dagnew

08:32 29 Jun 18

I am so happy l found you doctor, you have been an answer to my problem’s . My next would be to bring my kids to you!

Roxanne Smith

14:46 17 Mar 18

I am happy to write a review for Dr. Melanie because what she does is so amazing. I have been going to her about twice a month for a few years for NAET treatments. My many allergies are now gone and as a singer/performer she and I have discovered that her treatments clear up my voice!--stress and emotions affect my ability to sing my best and I rely on Dr. Melanie as my "voice whisperer" lol. I will come in with raspiness in my voice and every time I leave her office my voice is clear as a bell. It's truly amazing--often she uses NAET for emotions and finds the hidden cause that is always a surprise and a physical relief. I highly recommend her for improving your health in ways you can't even imagine.

Cynthia Lantigua

23:25 21 Aug 17

"Dr. Melanie is amazing, she doesn't try to rush through an appointment in 15 minutes, you feel like you have her undivided attention. She also demonstrates an exceptional understanding of nutrition and how the different vitamins, electrolytes, etc. affect your body and presents options to correct through either diet changes or supplements or both. She appears very competent in other naturopathic treatments as well. Her use of NAET therapy on me made me a believer! The results were immediate and something I could see myself! (I would never have believed it had I not tried it myself.) My husband is now seeing her as well for GI problems and general fatigue."

Krista Wright

16:54 28 Feb 17

I could not be more pleased with the choice I made to practice yoga at Dragonfly 360. There are classes for every level, the instructors are knowledgable, attentive, and sensitive, and the atmosphere is warm and inclusive. Most importantly to me, the integration of spiritual practice is a strong component of the classes. You will be affirmed in mind, body, and spirit by your practice at Dragonfly 360.

Endocrine System Issues