Omega-3 Index, Brain Health & Depression: EPA vs DHA Explained with Dr. William S. Harris

Beyond Diagnosis: Restoring the Mind-Body Connection with Dr. Saeid Mushtagh S02E34

In this episode of Power Up Recovery with Nutrition, Christina Veselak sits down with Dr. Saeid Mushtagh, a Vancouver-based naturopathic doctor specializing in brain health, mood, cognition, and the root causes of chronic illness. Drawing from both his clinical experience and his personal journey through depression, anxiety, ADHD, and multiple concussions, Dr. Mushtagh shares his holistic approach to restoring balance in the brain and body. Together, Christina and Dr. Mushtagh explore the foundations of mental wellness, the importance of sleep and nervous system regulation, and how nutrition, movement, and connection play critical roles in supporting long-term recovery and emotional health. They dive into: • Why many mental health diagnoses may stem from an imbalanced mind-body connection • The four foundational pillars of health: sleep, movement, nutrition, and connection • How poor sleep impacts mood, cognition, stress resilience, and recovery • The role of cortisol, hormones, and nervous system function in sleep disturbances • How heart rate variability (HRV) can provide insights into stress and overall health • The differences between low GABA, low serotonin, and low melatonin sleep challenges • Simple breathing techniques that help regulate the nervous system and improve sleep • Why morning sunlight, movement, hydration, and stretching are powerful healing tools • Nutritional approaches and targeted amino acids that support neurotransmitter balance • The connection between hormones, inflammation, brain health, and emotional wellbeing Meet Our Guest Dr. Saeid Mushtagh is a Vancouver-based naturopathic doctor focused on brain health, mood, cognition, and the root causes of chronic illness. His early work as a research assistant at the Centre for Mental Health and Addiction at the University of Toronto deepened his interest in the connections between nutrition, brain function, and emotional well-being. Personal experiences with depression, anxiety, multiple concussions, and ADHD further shaped his clinical focus on helping patients better understand and support their brain and body. Today, Dr. Mushtagh combines functional medicine, nutritional therapy, lifestyle interventions, and naturopathic principles to help individuals address the underlying causes of mental and physical health challenges. In addition to his clinical practice, he is passionate about natural medicine, herbal therapies, and the healing power of nature, bringing a whole-person approach to brain health and recovery. To Connect Website: https://northshorend.ca/ [https://northshorend.ca/] Pine Pollen & Herbal Products: https://canadianpinepollen.com/ [https://canadianpinepollen.com/] 5 Practical Takeaways Health begins with the basics Sleep, movement, nutrition, and meaningful connection form the foundation of both physical and mental wellbeing. Sleep is often the first place to start Many symptoms of anxiety, depression, poor focus, and low resilience are worsened when sleep quality is compromised. Breathwork can help regulate the nervous system Simple diaphragmatic breathing exercises can improve heart rate variability and support a healthier stress response. Mental health is more than brain chemistry alone Hormones, inflammation, nutrition, sleep, and lifestyle factors all contribute to emotional wellbeing and cognitive function. Small daily habits create lasting change Morning sunlight, hydration, movement, stretching, and nutrient-dense foods may seem simple, but they can have a profound impact on long-term health and recovery. Interested in Sponsoring the Podcast? The Power Up Recovery with Nutrition Podcast reaches an audience interested in addiction recovery, mental health nutrition, amino acid therapy, and brain-based recovery support. If your organization, program, or brand aligns with this mission, we invite you to explore podcast sponsorship opportunities. Learn more here: https://aminoacidtherapy.com/podcast-sponsorship-opportunities/ [https://aminoacidtherapy.com/podcast-sponsorship-opportunities/] Explore recovery nutrition resources, courses, and professional training from the Academy for Addiction and Mental Health Nutrition: https://aminoacidtherapy.com/ [https://aminoacidtherapy.com/] Learn more about the Feeding the Recovering Brain movement: https://feedtherecoveringbrain.com/ [https://feedtherecoveringbrain.com/] Support the nonprofit initiative Eating Protein Saves Lives, and help spread the message that protein throughout the day can support brain health, cravings, and recovery: https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/ [https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/] Start with Christina Veselak's book, EAT! A Guide to Radiant Recovery Using Food and Amino Acids to Repair the Addicted Brain and Reduce Cravings: https://www.eatforrecovery.com/ [https://www.eatforrecovery.com/] Follow us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/academy-for-addiction-and-mental-health-nutrition [https://www.linkedin.com/company/academy-for-addiction-and-mental-health-nutrition] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@academyforaddictionmentalh135 [https://www.youtube.com/@academyforaddictionmentalh135] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/addictionnutritionacademy/ [https://www.instagram.com/addictionnutritionacademy/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/academyforaddictionandmentalhealthnutrition/ [https://www.facebook.com/academyforaddictionandmentalhealthnutrition/] Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information shared is meant to inform and empower listeners but should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized care and treatment. Music by: Bensound License code: GFZAESIUP3ZUNGXM Like this episode? Subscribe, rate, and share it with a friend or colleague who needs this information. Let's make nutrition part of the conversation for lasting recovery.

The Mom Who Refused to Give Up: A Journey from Addiction to Hope with Dr. Shelly Jo Wahlstrom S02E33

In this episode of Power Up Recovery with Nutrition, Christina Veselak sits down with Shelly Jo Wahlstrom, founder of Hypno Aminos, certified clinical hypnotherapist, and passionate advocate for amino acid therapy, to explore how targeted nutrition can support addiction recovery, mental health, and overall brain function. Shelly shares her deeply personal journey of searching for answers when her daughter struggled with meth addiction and how discovering amino acid therapy changed not only her daughter's life, but the course of her own career. What began as a mother's quest for hope grew into a thriving business that has helped thousands of people address cravings, anxiety, depression, low energy, and emotional imbalances through nutritional support. They dive into: • How Shelly discovered amino acid therapy while helping her daughter recover from addiction • The role of amino acids in supporting neurotransmitter production and brain health • Why cravings, anxiety, depression, and low motivation may have biological roots • Shelly's personal experience using tyrosine to overcome sugar cravings and fatigue • The importance of supplement quality, purity, and manufacturing standards • Common ingredients and fillers consumers should be aware of • Real-life success stories using amino acids for addiction recovery, mood support, and emotional wellness • How Shelly built her own amino acid supplement company from the ground up • The growing role of practitioners in helping clients address nutritional deficiencies • Why feeding the brain what it is missing can create lasting change Meet Our Guest Dr. Shelly Jo Wahlstrom, PhD, CCHT, CRNC—also known as The Amino Acid Lady—is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Certified Recovery Nutrition Coach, author, educator, and founder of Hypno Aminos Supplements. After facing the fear of losing her daughter to addiction, Shelly Jo became determined to find answers beyond traditional approaches. That journey led her to amino acid therapy, nutritional recovery, and a mission to help others understand the powerful connection between brain chemistry, emotional wellbeing, and addiction recovery. Today, Shelly Jo teaches her signature 3-Legged Stool Approach—Feed Your Brain, Change Your Life, helping children, teens, and adults calm emotionally and mentally, reduce addictive substances and behaviors, and support natural healing. She is the author of two bestselling books, creator of the Hypno Aminos supplement line, and founder of Utah's only registered, bonded, and accredited hypnotherapy school. Through her speaking, training, and products, Shelly Jo continues to share a message of hope, healing, and whole-person health. When she's not helping others transform their lives, she enjoys skiing, dancing, traveling, and spending time with her grandchildren as "Grama Shelly." To Connect: Website: https://hypnoaminos.com/ [https://calendly.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fhypnoaminos.com%2F&user_uuid=5dbca6cf-6ff6-4394-aedc-cc2c49070d07&stage=0&hmac=f45657c794d014ff5275268dd515fdf4c25f488341def051d9abcdb76ffda92f] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShellyJoHypnoAminos/ [https://www.facebook.com/ShellyJoHypnoAminos/] Instagram: @shellyjohypnoaminos 5 Practical Takeaways 1. Feed the brain what it is missing Targeted amino acids can help support the production of key neurotransmitters involved in mood, motivation, focus, and recovery. 2. Cravings are often biological Many cravings for sugar, alcohol, drugs, and other substances may be linked to underlying neurotransmitter imbalances. 3. Quality supplements matter Not all supplements are created equally. Ingredients, fillers, sourcing, and manufacturing practices can significantly impact results. 4. Early intervention can change lives Addressing anxiety, mood challenges, and nutritional deficiencies in children may help prevent more serious struggles later in life. 5. Recovery requires more than willpower Supporting brain chemistry and nutritional health can make it easier for individuals to create and sustain meaningful change. Interested in Sponsoring the Podcast? The Power Up Recovery with Nutrition Podcast reaches an audience interested in addiction recovery, mental health nutrition, amino acid therapy, and brain-based recovery support. If your organization, program, or brand aligns with this mission, we invite you to explore podcast sponsorship opportunities. Learn more here: https://aminoacidtherapy.com/podcast-sponsorship-opportunities/ [https://aminoacidtherapy.com/podcast-sponsorship-opportunities/] Explore recovery nutrition resources, courses, and professional training from the Academy for Addiction and Mental Health Nutrition: https://aminoacidtherapy.com/ [https://aminoacidtherapy.com/] Learn more about the Feeding the Recovering Brain movement: https://feedtherecoveringbrain.com/ [https://feedtherecoveringbrain.com/] Support the nonprofit initiative Eating Protein Saves Lives, and help spread the message that protein throughout the day can support brain health, cravings, and recovery: https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/ [https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/] Start with Christina Veselak's book, EAT! A Guide to Radiant Recovery Using Food and Amino Acids to Repair the Addicted Brain and Reduce Cravings: https://www.eatforrecovery.com/ [https://www.eatforrecovery.com/] Follow us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/academy-for-addiction-and-mental-health-nutrition [https://www.linkedin.com/company/academy-for-addiction-and-mental-health-nutrition] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@academyforaddictionmentalh135 [https://www.youtube.com/@academyforaddictionmentalh135] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/addictionnutritionacademy/ [https://www.instagram.com/addictionnutritionacademy/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/academyforaddictionandmentalhealthnutrition/ [https://www.facebook.com/academyforaddictionandmentalhealthnutrition/] Music by: Bensound License code: GFZAESIUP3ZUNGXM Like this episode? Subscribe, rate, and share it with a friend or colleague who needs this information. Let's make nutrition part of the conversation for lasting recovery.

The Autoimmune Protocol Explained: Food, Inflammation, and Recovery with Mickey Trescott S02E32

In this episode of Power Up Recovery with Nutrition, Christina Veselak sits down with Mickey Trescott, a leading voice in the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) community, to explore the powerful connection between food, inflammation, autoimmune disease, mental health, and recovery. Drawing from her own experience living with Hashimoto's disease and celiac disease, Mickey shares how years of debilitating symptoms and medical dismissal led her to discover the transformative role nutrition can play in healing chronic illness. Together, Christina and Mickey discuss how food sensitivities, gluten intolerance, gut health, and inflammation can impact not only physical health, but also anxiety, depression, cravings, addiction recovery, and emotional resilience. They dive deep into the evolution of the Autoimmune Protocol, including the newly updated modified AIP approach, practical strategies for food elimination and reintroduction, navigating social situations with dietary restrictions, and the importance of learning to listen to your body over time. This conversation bridges autoimmune health, functional nutrition, mental health, and addiction recovery — offering both practical tools and hope for healing. Key Topics Covered • What the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) is and how it evolved over the last 15 years • The connection between autoimmune disease, gut health, and inflammation • Why many autoimmune patients are dismissed or misdiagnosed • How gluten sensitivity and food intolerances can affect mental health and cravings • The overlap between autoimmune conditions and addiction recovery • The difference between Core AIP and Modified AIP • Why reintroducing foods properly matters for long-term healing • The emotional side of food elimination and lifestyle changes • Navigating restaurants, family gatherings, and social situations with dietary restrictions • How stress and nervous system health can affect food sensitivities • The importance of individualized nutrition and bio-individuality • Why healing is a lifelong process of learning and adaptation Meet Our Guest Mickey Trescott, MSc, is an author, nutrition professional, and leading voice in the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) community. She holds a Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine and has supported autoimmune clients in private practice since 2013. As co-founder of Autoimmune Wellness, she helped grow AIP from a small online community into a globally recognized, research-supported protocol. She has collaborated with medical researchers studying AIP for conditions including inflammatory bowel disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis, and co-created the AIP Certified Coach Practitioner Training Program, which has trained more than 1,000 providers worldwide. She is the author of four award-winning and best-selling books, including The New Autoimmune Protocol, which introduces the first major update to AIP in over a decade. She lives near Portland, Oregon, with her husband, Noah. To Connect with Mickey Website: https://mickeytrescott.com/ [https://mickeytrescott.com/] Recipes & Resources: Autoimmune Wellness [https://autoimmunewellness.com/] Instagram: @mickeytrescott [https://www.instagram.com/mickeytrescott/] References, Concepts & Topics Mentioned • Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) • Modified AIP vs Core AIP • Hashimoto's thyroiditis • Celiac disease and gluten sensitivity • Food elimination and reintroduction protocols • Gut health and intestinal permeability • Chronic inflammation and autoimmune disease • Mental health symptoms connected to food sensitivities • Nutritional approaches to addiction recovery • Reactive food sensitivities and immune responses • Stress, nervous system regulation, and immune health • Functional nutrition and personalized healing approaches • Research studies involving inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and Hashimoto's disease Practical Takeaways • Food sensitivities can affect both physical and mental health. • Healing often begins when inflammation and immune triggers are identified. • Elimination diets are meant to help identify personal triggers — not create lifelong restriction. • The modified AIP approach may be more sustainable and accessible for many people. • Learning how to advocate for your health is an important part of recovery. • Stress and nervous system health can influence food tolerance and immune responses. • Recovery and healing are highly individualized processes. • Feeling better physically often makes long-term lifestyle changes easier to maintain. Discover More Unlock a world of resources at https://aminoacidtherapy.com/ [https://aminoacidtherapy.com/] where you'll find expert insights, transformative training, and actionable tools to support your recovery journey. Whether you're looking for professional courses like our Level 1 Core Training Learn more at https://feedtherecoveringbrain.com [https://feedtherecoveringbrain.com/] Support Our Mission Check out our nonprofit initiative, Eating Protein Saves Lives, at https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/ [https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/] Learn how we're improving lives and communities through better nutrition, the science of amino acid therapy, and our simple yet powerful message: Eat protein every 4 hours. Also, if you're just starting out or want a solid foundation, check out Eat: A Guide to Radiant Recovery Using Food and Amino Acids to Repair the Addicted Brain and Reduce Cravings by Christina Veselak. It's a clear, powerful intro to the core concepts. Grab your copy here: https://www.eatforrecovery.com/ [https://www.eatforrecovery.com/] Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information shared is meant to inform and empower listeners but should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized care and treatment. Music by: Bensound License code: GFZAESIUP3ZUNGXM Like this episode? Subscribe, rate, and share it with a friend or colleague who needs this information. Let's make nutrition part of the conversation for lasting recovery.

Healing the Addicted Brain: Nutrition, Cravings, and Recovery Science with Dr. Brooke Scheller S02E31

In this episode of Power Up Recovery with Nutrition, Christina Veselak sits down with Dr. Brooke Scheller, a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition and leading voice in functional sobriety. Dr. Scheller shares her personal journey with alcohol and how it led her to uncover a powerful truth: cravings, mood swings, and relapse are often rooted in brain chemistry and nutrient imbalances — not just behavior or willpower. Together, Christina and Dr. Scheller explore how nutrition directly impacts neurotransmitters, blood sugar, gut health, and hormone balance, and why these are critical foundations for sustainable recovery. They break down how simple shifts—like increasing protein intake, stabilizing blood sugar, and addressing nutrient deficiencies—can significantly reduce cravings and improve emotional resilience. This conversation challenges traditional recovery models and introduces a more biochemical, root-cause approach to healing the brain and body. Key Topics Covered * Why cravings are biochemical—not just emotional * The connection between blood sugar and alcohol cravings * How protein and amino acids support brain chemistry * The role of gut health in mood and recovery * Nutrient deficiencies that impact anxiety, depression, and relapse * Why "missing a meal" can trigger cravings * Functional Sobriety and personalized nutrition strategies Meet Our Guest Dr. Brooke Scheller, DCN, CNS, CFPP, is a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition and a leading expert in functional sobriety. She helps individuals transform their mental health and recovery journey through nutrition and root-cause healing. She is the founder of the Scheller Collective and creator of the Functional Sobriety approach, a science-backed method that uses personalized nutrition to improve brain health, stabilize mood, and support an alcohol-free lifestyle. Dr. Scheller is also the author of How to Eat to Change How You Drink, where she bridges the gap between nutrition, brain chemistry, and behavior change. Connect with Dr. Brooke Scheller * Website: www.functionalsobriety.com [http://www.functionalsobriety.com] * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbrookescheller [https://www.instagram.com/drbrookescheller] * Book: How to Eat to Change How You Drink Practical Takeaways * Cravings often come from blood sugar crashes and nutrient deficiencies * Eating protein regularly can reduce urges and stabilize mood * Gut health plays a major role in mental health and recovery * Nutrition can improve brain chemistry faster than most expect * Recovery is not just psychological—it's biological Discover More Unlock a world of resources at https://aminoacidtherapy.com/ [https://aminoacidtherapy.com/] where you'll find expert insights, transformative training, and actionable tools to support your recovery journey. Whether you're looking for professional courses like our Level 1 Core Training Learn more at https://feedtherecoveringbrain.com [https://feedtherecoveringbrain.com/] Support Our Mission Check out our nonprofit initiative, Eating Protein Saves Lives, at https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/ [https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/] Learn how we're improving lives and communities through better nutrition, the science of amino acid therapy, and our simple yet powerful message: Eat protein every 4 hours. Also, if you're just starting out or want a solid foundation, check out Eat: A Guide to Radiant Recovery Using Food and Amino Acids to Repair the Addicted Brain and Reduce Cravings by Christina Veselak. It's a clear, powerful intro to the core concepts. Grab your copy here: https://www.eatforrecovery.com/ [https://www.eatforrecovery.com/] Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information shared is meant to inform and empower listeners but should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized care and treatment. Music by: Bensound License code: GFZAESIUP3ZUNGXM Like this episode? Subscribe, rate, and share it with a friend or colleague who needs this information. Let's make nutrition part of the conversation for lasting recovery.

Omega-3 Index, Brain Health & Depression: EPA vs DHA Explained with Dr. William S. Harris

In this episode of Power Up Recovery with Nutrition, Christina Veselak sits down with Dr. Bill Harris, a leading expert in nutritional biochemistry and founder of the Omega-3 Index, to explore how omega-3 fatty acids impact brain health, mental health, and long-term recovery. Dr. Harris explains the science behind EPA and DHA, the importance of measuring omega-3 levels through the Omega-3 Index, and why this simple blood test can be a powerful predictor of health outcomes including depression, inflammation, heart disease, and even suicide risk. They dive into: • What the Omega-3 Index is and why it matters • The difference between EPA and DHA for brain function • Omega-3 deficiency and its link to mental health challenges • Optimal omega-3 intake for maintenance vs therapeutic use • Why the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio may be misleading • The role of inflammation in depression and recovery • Real-world cases of high-dose omega-3s in brain injury recovery Meet Our Guest William Harris holds a PhD in Nutritional Biochemistry from the University of Minnesota. Since 1980, his research has focused on omega-3 fatty acids. He has been the principal investigator on 8 omega-3 related NIH grants and has over 360 omega-3-related publications. In 2004, he developed the "Omega-3 Index", a blood test to assess EPA+DHA status that can be performed on dried blood spots. In 2008 he founded OmegaQuant Analytics, LLC in Sioux Falls, SD to offer the test to researchers, healthcare providers and consumers. He has been elected a Fellow of the American Heart Association, the National Lipid Association, and the American Society of Nutrition. He is currently a Professor in the Department of Medicine at the Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota; President of OmegaQuant Analytics, and the founder of the Fatty Acid Research Institute (2020). His scientific impact was ranked among the top 2% in a recent survey of scientists worldwide. To Connect: Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/Omega3Index/]: @Omega3Index Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/omega3index/]: @OmegaQuant YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@OmegaQuantLab]: @OmegaQuantLab Omegaquant.com [http://omegaquant.com/] (OmegaQuant) Fareinst.org [https://www.faresinst.org/] (Fatty Acid Research Institute) 5 Practical Takeaways 1. Test your Omega-3 levels Use the Omega-3 Index to know where you actually stand. 2. Aim for at least 8% This is the target range linked to better brain and overall health. 3. Most people need more Omega-3s A daily intake of 1,500–2,000 mg EPA + DHA is a good starting point. 4. EPA + DHA both matter EPA supports mood and inflammation, while DHA supports brain structure. 5. Consistency is key Long-term intake matters more than occasional supplementation. Discover More Unlock a world of resources at https://aminoacidtherapy.com/ [https://aminoacidtherapy.com/] where you'll find expert insights, transformative training, and actionable tools to support your recovery journey. Whether you're looking for professional courses like our Level 1 Core Training Learn more at https://feedtherecoveringbrain.com [https://feedtherecoveringbrain.com/] Support Our Mission Check out our nonprofit initiative, Eating Protein Saves Lives, at https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/ [https://eatingproteinsaveslives.org/] Learn how we're improving lives and communities through better nutrition, the science of amino acid therapy, and our simple yet powerful message: Eat protein every 4 hours. Also, if you're just starting out or want a solid foundation, check out Eat: A Guide to Radiant Recovery Using Food and Amino Acids to Repair the Addicted Brain and Reduce Cravings by Christina Veselak. It's a clear, powerful intro to the core concepts. Grab your copy here: https://www.eatforrecovery.com/ [https://www.eatforrecovery.com/] Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information shared is meant to inform and empower listeners but should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized care and treatment. Music by: Bensound License code: GFZAESIUP3ZUNGXM Like this episode? Subscribe, rate, and share it with a friend or colleague who needs this information. Let's make nutrition part of the conversation for lasting recovery.