Dr. Jessica Peatross: Detoxing From Environmental Mold, Lyme Disease, and Parasites | TUH #157

The Cracks in Conventional Medicine

Dr. Peatross begins by recounting her experiences as a conventional medical doctor, where she began to notice significant flaws in the healthcare system. She questioned the practice of discharging patients on numerous medications without addressing the root causes of their ailments. This led her to explore functional and lifestyle medicine, where she learned to consider the patient's lifestyle, spiritual well-being, and overall habits rather than just their medical history. She emphasizes that many patients are often misdiagnosed or overlooked, leading to a cycle of ineffective treatments.

The Impact of Environmental Toxins

The discussion shifts to the pervasive issue of environmental toxins, particularly mold. Dr. Peatross explains that many patients come to her with a myriad of symptoms, often feeling unwell but unable to pinpoint the cause. They may have been told by multiple doctors that they are fine, only to find themselves referred to psychiatry. This is where the connection between environmental toxins and chronic illness becomes crucial. Dr. Peatross highlights that mold exposure can lead to a range of health issues, including autoimmune diseases, and that many people are unaware of the mold lurking in their homes.

Understanding Mold and Its Effects

Dr. Peatross elaborates on the symptoms associated with mold exposure, such as fatigue, brain fog, and digestive issues. She emphasizes the importance of identifying and removing oneself from toxic environments before beginning any detoxification process. The conversation touches on the various tests available to detect mold and mycotoxins in the body, including urine tests that can reveal the presence of harmful substances.

The Role of Functional Medicine

Transitioning into functional medicine, Dr. Peatross discusses her approach to treating patients with mold toxicity. She emphasizes the need to open the body's natural detoxification pathways, including the liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system, before initiating any detox protocol. This involves a combination of dietary changes, supplementation, and lifestyle modifications aimed at reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system.

Dr. Peatross also highlights the significance of addressing the nervous system's health, as many patients are in a state of chronic stress, which can hinder their ability to heal. She advocates for practices such as breathwork, grounding, and exposure to natural light to help regulate the nervous system and promote overall well-being.

Lyme Disease: The Great Mimicker

The conversation then shifts to Lyme disease, which Dr. Peatross describes as a complex and often misunderstood illness. She explains that Lyme can present with a variety of symptoms, including joint pain, fatigue, and neurological issues, making it difficult to diagnose. Many patients may not even realize they have been exposed to Lyme, as it can be transmitted through various means, including ticks and mosquitoes.

Dr. Peatross emphasizes the importance of comprehensive testing for Lyme disease, as conventional tests may not always provide accurate results. She discusses the need for a multifaceted approach to treatment, which includes addressing co-infections and supporting the immune system.

Detoxification Protocols

When it comes to detoxifying from Lyme disease, Dr. Peatross outlines her "kill, bind, and sweat" protocol. This involves using herbal antimicrobials to target the Lyme bacteria, followed by binding agents to help eliminate toxins from the body. She stresses the importance of ensuring that the body's detoxification pathways are open and functioning properly before starting any aggressive treatment.

Dr. Peatross also discusses the use of ozone therapy, which can help enhance the body's ability to detoxify and support immune function. She explains that ozone can be administered in various ways, including through intravenous methods or saunas, and can be particularly effective in treating chronic infections.

The Importance of Mindset

Throughout the podcast, Dr. Peatross emphasizes the critical role of mindset in the healing process. She believes that many patients struggle with their health because they do not feel safe in their bodies or environments. By addressing emotional and psychological factors, she helps patients cultivate a sense of safety and empowerment, which is essential for healing.

Dr. Peatross encourages listeners to take an active role in their health by being aware of their thoughts and beliefs. She believes that true wellness encompasses mental, emotional, and physical well-being, and that individuals must work to align all aspects of their lives to achieve optimal health.