This is a quick check-in episode! I want to make sure you know that I appreciate you listening to my show, even though I haven't published an episode in a while. But this episode also provides some thoughts on trauma preventing people from going to therapy.

059: Not Going to Therapy Because of Trauma?

In this solo‑recorded episode, I walk listeners through the full set of questions I fielded on a recent discussion panel at the Nourish to Flourish Conference. Using the Weston A. Price Foundation (WAPF) principles as a backbone, I share how those ideas reshaped my own health, my family’s daily habits, and the way I work with clients. Why I First Turned to Weston A. PriceThe “aha” moment – personal health clues, professional curiosity, and the first traditional food that sparked change (yes, liver and bone broth!).How the Principles Shifted My View of HealthBeyond the clinic – changes in shopping, cooking, family meals, and daily rituals that now feel non‑negotiable.Nutrient‑Dense Foods in My KitchenNon‑negotiables: raw dairy, organ meats, fermented condiments, unrefined salt, and gelatinous bone broth. A quick tour of my fridge/pantry for listeners who imagine peeking inside.The Single WAPF Principle That Transforms ClientsWhy it matters: Emphasizing nutrient‑dense whole foods (organ meats, eggs, raw dairy, shellfish) consistently produces the biggest clinical improvements.Connecting Nourishment to My DisciplineGut, oral, and mental health: Early signals I spot (teeth alignment, digestion patterns, mood stability) that reveal a shift toward true nourishment before symptoms appear.Visible Signs of a Nourished BodyWhat surprises people: stronger teeth, wider dental arches, steadier mood, better digestion—often within weeks.Mindset, Stress & Emotional NutritionHow stress blocks intake and why slowing down, mindful eating, and community support are essential for the body to receive nutrients.Modern Challenges for FamiliesConvenience vs. tradition: The biggest hurdles (time pressure, fear of “going extreme,” perfectionism) and the mental baggage families carry.Why Community & Local Chapters MatterGrassroots power: How local WAPF chapters turn theory into lived experience, create sustainable food networks, and give families a sense of belonging.Transformations Seen When Families Join a ChapterReal‑world outcomes: Stories of families who moved from fragmented meals to cohesive, nutrient‑rich plates and reported increased vitality and cohesion.One Simple First Step for ListenersStart small: Add a daily serving of a traditional, nutrient‑dense food (e.g., a spoonful of raw butter, a cup of bone broth, or a handful of fermented veggies).Getting Involved LocallyHow to act: Find a nearby WAPF chapter, attend a workshop, volunteer at a community farm, or simply start a “traditional food night” with friends.

058: Living the Wise Traditions Way - My Personal and Professional Journey

PLEASE NOTE: This episode was updated to include more content at the end on the afternoon of January 8th! Content includes Cody's thoughts on responses from MD's and Dietitians in the media. Some of the backlash is that the new guideline document is only 10 pages, whereas previous versions were over 100 pages. But be aware that they are merely trying to make this an easier read for the layperson, which they should. It's not lacking in science. They provide scientific references here and here.This is a solo recording where Cody discusses the new principles taught in the US Dietary Guidelines and his opinions on them. He doesn't agree with it all!Key points:Recommendation on saturated fat remains at 10% of daily caloriesEmphasis on real food. That means food that comes from a farm, not a factory.Eat protein, even red meat.Eat fat, even tallow and butter.LIMIT carbohydrates, especially grains and sugars.For more information, see realfood.gov.Want a jumpstart on eating real, whole foods? Check out the RESTART program, starting January 12th at 10:00 AM MST!See beavercreekwellness.com/restart for more details.Subscribe and review and check back for more soon.To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠To access clinical-grade (the highest quality) supplements and other health products, ⁠visit the dispensary⁠.Visit Cody’s website at ⁠beavercreekwellness.com⁠ where you can read more about him and schedule sessions.

057: The New US Dietary Guidelines

Today's episode is with Gabe Dough, an entrepreneur with personal experience healing his own gut and associated health problems. You'll hear a bit about his story and we'll also dive into the science of dysbiosis and how to correct it using real food and lifestyle changes.Find Gabe's product at goodbru.com.Subscribe and review and check back for more soon.To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠To access clinical-grade (the highest quality) supplements and other health products, ⁠visit the dispensary⁠.Visit Cody’s website at ⁠beavercreekwellness.com⁠ where you can read more about him and schedule sessions.

056: Is Your Gut Healthy? with Gabe Dough

Happy Thanksgiving!!!Do you deal with chronic stress, exacerbated by adrenal fatigue, thyroid problems, and manifesting as "I just can't deal with life right now?" This episode is for those of us who feel like we are on the verge of burnout. Featuring Christa Biegler, RD.You can find her at christabiegler.com or her podcast Less Stressed Life: Helping You Heal YourselfSubscribe and review and check back for more soon.To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠To access clinical-grade (the highest quality) supplements and other health products, ⁠visit the dispensary⁠.Visit Cody’s website at ⁠beavercreekwellness.com⁠ where you can read more about him and schedule sessions.

055: Chronic Stress, Adrenal Fatigue, and Thyroid Dysfunction with Christa Biegler, RD

💡 Episode SummaryIn this episode, Cody reconnects with one of his very first guests, Rebecca Stuart, to explore the intersection of homeschooling, health, and holistic living in today’s post-pandemic world.They discuss how families are rethinking education, health, and freedom—and how nutrition, environment, and mindful parenting all play a role in raising resilient, critical-thinking kids.Rebecca shares her personal journey through over a decade of homeschooling, her creative approaches to individualized learning, and how she integrated whole-food nutrition and wellness into her children’s education.Topics:Rebecca’s homeschooling journey and what inspired her to startWhy more families are turning to homeschooling post-pandemicNavigating vaccine laws, exemptions, and homeschool freedomAffordable and creative ways to build your own homeschool curriculumLearning styles, child development, and the importance of playNutrition, food dyes, and how diet impacts children’s mental healthBalancing parental burnout and self-care while homeschoolingTeaching kids critical thinking, emotional awareness, and boundariesThe power of conversation and repair in healthy parent-child relationshipsThe future of education and nurturing lifelong learnersRebecca’s Online High School Health Course: LibertyWellnessAndCo.comA semester-long course for homeschoolers that teaches teens how to take ownership of their physical and emotional health.Sherri Gilford’s Health Curriculum for Kids (Ages 6–11) — playful, Weston A. Price-inspired family health learning.Homegrown Education — holistic homeschool materials introducing young children to whole foods and nutrition.The Nourishing Traditions Cookbook for Children by Sally Fallon — cooking real food together as family education.Key Takeaways:“You have to give yourself two to three years before you find your rhythm as a homeschool family.” — Rebecca Stuart“It’s not about shielding kids from ideas—it’s about teaching them how to think critically when they’re ready.” — Cody Cox“We’re not going to get everything right as parents. What matters most is that we apologize, repair, and keep learning together.” — Rebecca StuartSubscribe and review and check back for more soon.To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠To access clinical-grade (the highest quality) supplements and other health products, ⁠visit the dispensary⁠.Visit Cody’s website at ⁠beavercreekwellness.com⁠ where you can read more about him and schedule sessions.

054: The Homeschool Advantage: Nutrition, Mental Health, and Family Freedom with Rebecca Stuart, NTP

Listen through to the end of the episode for a bonus!🧠 Episode OverviewIn this inspiring conversation, Cody sits down with fellow holistic psychotherapist Emma Donovan, MA, LPC to explore what it really means to take a holistic approach to mental health. They unpack the difference between “holistic,” “integrative,” and “conventional” therapy, and discuss Emma’s groundbreaking concept of Regenerative Mental Health — a philosophy that goes beyond root cause healing to ask: How can we live so well that symptoms don’t arise in the first place?Defining “Holistic” Therapy: Looking beyond mindfulness or energy work to truly address the whole person — body, mind, spirit, environment, and community.Conventional vs. Integrative vs. Holistic Therapy: Why symptom management alone isn’t enough and how integration doesn’t always equal holistic.What is Regenerative Mental Health? A forward-thinking model for prevention and sustainability in mental wellness.Root Causes of Mental Illness: From trauma and toxic environments to spiritual disconnection and tech overuse — how modern life fosters disconnection.Reconnection Practices: Exploring Emma’s Holistic Wellness Questionnaire and tools like the Wellness Wheel for self-assessment and awareness.Medication and Mental Health: A nuanced discussion on when medication may serve as a temporary bridge versus a long-term solution.The Therapeutic (Naturopathic) Order: Understanding the pyramid of interventions — from foundational lifestyle supports to high-force interventions. See more about this here.Convenience Culture &amp; Disconnection: How comfort and technology weaken our resilience — and what we can learn from nature.Depression as a Symptom: Considering depression as both a biological and adaptive response to imbalance.The “Introvert Hypothesis”: Can physical or environmental factors influence personality traits like introversion?“Holistic means truly looking at the whole person — body, mind, spirit, environment, and community.” — Emma Donovan“We’ve created a convenience culture that’s deprived us of resistance — and resistance is how we grow stronger.” — Emma Donovan“Health isn’t a luxury; it’s about meeting your basic human needs.” — Emma Donovan“Living in a city is a recipe for depression — sometimes making life less convenient can make it healthier.” — Cody CoxEmma’s Websites:Alternative Therapy STL — Holistic psychotherapy, nutrition, and spiritual counselingHolistic and Functional Psychology — Professional education, retreats, and Emma’s Holistic Wellness QuestionnaireHolistic Wellness Questionnaire: Free for practitioners and available in a brief version for the publicBook Mentioned: Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. PriceUpcoming Retreat: Costa Rica, February 2026 — for therapists and wellness professionalsInterested in free testing or becoming a practice client? Contact Cody through his website if

053: Regenerative Mental Health with Emma Donovan

🌿 Episode SummaryIn this episode, Cody shares insights and takeaways from the recent Wise Traditions Conference hosted by the Weston A. Price Foundation in Salt Lake City. From the incredible nutrient-dense meals served to the deep dives into gut health, raw milk, and controversial new biology perspectives — this episode unpacks the leading edge (and sometimes provocative) conversations happening in the holistic wellness world today.🍽️ Highlights The Food Experience:   Learn how the conference meals embodied Weston A. Price principles — organic, local, properly prepared, and full of life-giving nutrients.    Workshops Worth Trying:    From sourdough and cheese-making to the reminder that simple, traditional skills can outshine factory-made foods.   Raw Milk Reality Check:    Cody explores the nutritional benefits of raw milk, its enzyme and vitamin content, and why it may be easier to digest for some people compared to pasteurized milk.    The GAPS Diet Explained:    A look into Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride’s Gut and Psychology Syndrome Diet — its focus on gut healing, connection to mental health, and practical applications for families.    Toxins, Glyphosate, and Gut Health:    How modern lifestyles and synthetic fragrances disrupt our microbiome — and why fermented foods like sauerkraut may help counteract daily exposures.    Healing Food Sensitivities:    Cody discusses the idea of intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”) and how food allergies may not be permanent when gut health is restored.    Pregnancy, Children, and Gut Foundations:    The importance of nourishing foods before conception and during early childhood for lifelong health — and how fussy eating can signal gut imbalances.    Controversial Conversations:    Hear about emerging views from speakers like Dr. Tom Cowan and Drs. Mark and Samantha Bailey, who challenge mainstream ideas about viruses, Lyme disease, and modern medicine. See Sam and Mark Bailey's take on the conference here!   Core Message:    Holistic health isn’t about fear or quick fixes — it’s about empowerment, education, and returning to nature’s wisdom.🧩 Key Takeaways    True wellness begins with whole, properly prepared foods.    Gut health is central to both mental and physical well-being.    Detoxification and reducing toxic load are daily acts of self-care.    Always keep an open mind — but also use discernment when exploring new health ideas.🔗 Resources Mentioned    Weston A. Price Foundation: westonaprice.orgReal Milk Finder: realmilk.comEnvironmental Working Group (EWG): ewg.org    Books by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride:        Gut and Psychology Syndrome        Gut and Physiology Syndrome💬 Join the ConversationHave thoughts on raw milk, gut health, or these controversial health topics?Leave a comment on Spotify or message Cody on social media — your questions and reflections may be featured in an upcoming episode!Check out Cody's website at beavercreekwellness.com.

052: My Takeaways from the Wise Traditions Conference 2025

💫 Episode SummaryIn this episode of Real Food Mental Health, Cody Cox sits down with Dr. Torkil Færø—Norwegian physician, filmmaker, and author of The Pulse Cure—to explore how heart rate variability (HRV) can transform the way we understand stress, recovery, and overall well-being.Dr. Færø shares insights from his 26 years in medicine and his own personal journey to reclaim health after burnout. Together, Cody and Dr. Færø discuss how wearable devices like Garmin, Oura Ring, and Whoop can act as “a doctor on your wrist,” providing real-time feedback on stress, sleep, food reactions, and lifestyle balance.🩺 What You’ll Learn:  What heart rate variability (HRV) actually measures—and why a higher HRV is a good thing    How HRV reveals the balance between your sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems    Why Garmin stands out among wearable health trackers    The surprising ways that food, alcohol, and sleep habits affect your HRV and stress levels    How breathing exercises and slow exhalation can instantly improve HRV    The eight lifestyle habits that can extend your life by up to 24 years    Why taking personal responsibility for your health is more powerful than any prescription🌿 Key Takeaways    Alcohol is the #1 stressor on HRV—minimize it to support recovery and longevity.    Stop eating 3–4 hours before bed to improve sleep quality and HRV.    Simple breathwork—four seconds in, six seconds out—can instantly calm your nervous system.    HRV is a window into your physiology, showing how daily habits influence your inner balance.    Lifestyle medicine is preventive medicine—what you do daily shapes your health decades from now.📘 About the GuestDr. Torkil Færø is a Norwegian general practitioner, emergency physician, filmmaker, and author of The Pulse Cure. His work bridges medicine, technology, and lifestyle science, showing how we can use wearable data to take control of our health.🌍 Website: thepulsecure.com📚 Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and major audiobook platforms.🔗 Resources Mentioned:    The Pulse Cure by Dr. Torkil Færø    Garmin Wearables and Body Battery metrics    The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk    HRV-focused practices like HeartMath and mindful breathingConnect with Cody: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with anyone who might benefit from these insights. * Have questions or suggestions? Send Cody a message on Signal Messenger: cox.07* Follow Cody on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ for more tips and conversations about holistic nutrition, mental health, and family wellness.* To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠⁠⁠⁠* Visit his website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠beavercreekwellness.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ where you can read more about him and schedule sessions.

051: The Power of Heart Rate Variability with Dr. Torkil Færø: Listening to Your Body’s Pulse

In this episode of Real Food Mental Health, host Cody Cox sits down with Dr. JC Allen, a chiropractor and neuroscientist based in Logan, Utah, who integrates Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) into his practice. Together, they explore how emotions can become physically trapped in the body, how the nervous system responds to unresolved trauma, and what it really means to approach healing from a whole-person perspective.Dr. Allen explains how NET helps uncover and release stored emotions using muscle testing, breathing, and acupuncture points—combining neuroscience with holistic principles. They also discuss the connections between NET, Emotion Code, EMDR, and applied kinesiology, and why true wellness means addressing both emotional and physical root causes.💬 Key Topics Discussed  What Neuro Emotional Technique (NET) is and how it works    How emotions can become physically stored in the body    The difference between NET and the Emotion Code    The science behind muscle testing and how it reflects nervous system responses    Real-world research showing NET’s impact on brain scans and physiological markers    How diet, gut health, and adrenal function influence emotional well-being    The importance of playfulness, curiosity, and self-reflection in healing    Integrating body-based therapies with talk therapy for more complete healing👤 About Dr. JC AllenDr. JC Allen, D.C., M.S., is a licensed chiropractor with advanced training in neuroscience, Applied Kinesiology, and Neuro Emotional Technique (NET). He practices in Logan and Bluffdale, Utah, where he helps clients uncover and resolve the emotional roots of physical and mental health challenges. His approach blends structural alignment, emotional processing, and nervous system regulation for deep, lasting healing.🌐 Website: chiropracticsoul.com📸 Instagram: @mindbodysoulchiropracticSupport Cody and the production of this podcast here.Visit Cody's website here.

050: How Neuro Emotional Technique Bridges the Gap Between Physical and Emotional Health with Dr. JC Allen

Episode SummaryIf you’ve ever struggled with picky eaters, childhood eczema, food sensitivities, or your own gut issues, this episode of Real Food Mental Health is packed with solutions. Cody Cox sits down with Jessica Ramdhany Thomas, a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and microbiome specialist, to explore how gut health impacts everything from digestion and immunity to mood, behavior, and long-term wellness.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why gut health is the foundation of mental and physical wellness.The difference between the GI Map and shotgun metagenomics testing—and why newer gut testing methods may give more accurate results.How the gut produces serotonin, GABA, and other neurotransmitters that influence mood, focus, and anxiety.Simple, practical ways to support picky eaters with nutrient-dense foods rich in iron and zinc.Why long-term probiotic supplements aren’t always the answer—and how fermented foods and diverse fiber can better support the microbiome.Functional nutrition tips for eczema, food sensitivities, and childhood gut health.Key Topics Covered:Pediatric gut health and early microbiome developmentStrategies for introducing whole foods to kidsSupporting mental health through nutritionFoods and supplements that strengthen the gut lining and reduce inflammationThe connection between gut diversity, immunity, and metabolismAbout Today’s Guest:Jessica Ramdhany Thomas is a nutritional therapy practitioner, microbiome specialist, and educator who helps families heal and thrive by addressing gut health at the root. With a background in biology, psychology, and education, Jessica translates the latest gut microbiome science into real-world strategies for parents and children.Where to Connect with Jessica:Instagram: @madewholisticCall/Text: (813) 670-3467Resources Mentioned:Gut testing options: BiomeFx, Tiny HealthFermented food ideas: sauerkraut juice, yogurt, kimchi, miso, sourdoughKey nutrients: iron, zinc, vitamin D, and short-chain fatty acidsEpisode Takeaway:Supporting your gut microbiome isn’t just about digestion—it’s about building a strong immune system, improving mental health, and helping kids (and adults) thrive long-term.Subscribe and review and check back for more soon.To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠To access clinical-grade (the highest quality) supplements and other health products, ⁠visit the dispensary⁠.Visit Cody’s website at ⁠beavercreekwellness.com⁠ where you can read more about him and schedule sessions.

049: Gut Health, Picky Eaters, and Microbiome Support with Jessica Ramdhany Thomas

PLEASE NOTE: While I say that this is a video episode, it's actually not. Unfortunately, I had trouble getting the video to upload so I converted it to audio instead.Episode SummaryIn this special episode of Real Food, Mental Health, host Cody Cox shares his recent appearance on the TV show Invisible Condition. Cody opens up about his personal journey with anxiety, depression, and ADHD, and how food and lifestyle choices became pivotal in transforming his mental health. Together with host Jeff Pearson, they explore the intersection of nutrition, psychotherapy, and invisible conditions, shedding light on why addressing root causes—not just symptoms—is essential for true healing.Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how diet impacts mood, why mental health struggles often go unseen, and how patience and compassion can make all the difference in supporting ourselves and others.Cody’s early struggles with depression and anxiety—and how social connections and lifestyle shifts changed everything.Why nutrition is often overlooked in conventional mental health care.The difference between psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists.What “bio-individuality” means and why there’s no true one-size-fits-all diet.How invisible conditions like mental illness, ADHD, or learning disorders affect daily life—and how compassion can bridge the gap.The role of hope, faith, and purpose in navigating mental health challenges.Learn more about Cody’s work: BeavercreekwellnessConnect with Jeff Pearson’s nonprofit: Hydro With Hope“Hope can be a tricky thing for people who don’t see their purpose. To me, it’s a spiritual crisis if they don’t have that hope—but it can be found as you develop that sense of purpose.” – Cody CoxSubscribe and review and check back for more soon.To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠To access clinical-grade (the highest quality) supplements and other health products, ⁠visit the dispensary⁠.Visit Cody’s website at ⁠beavercreekwellness.com⁠ where you can read more about him and schedule sessions.

048: Food as Medicine & Invisible Conditions with Cody Cox, CMHC, NTP

What if the key to mental health lies in how your brain makes and uses energy? In this episode of Real Food Mental Health, host Cody Cox sits down with Dr. Matt Bernstein, a board-certified psychiatrist and pioneer in metabolic psychiatry. Together, they explore how nutrition, lifestyle, and metabolic health directly influence the brain—and how these tools can transform recovery from conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and even schizophrenia.Dr. Bernstein shares his journey from traditional psychiatry into functional and metabolic approaches after witnessing profound changes in patients using ketogenic therapies. He explains why therapeutic ketogenic diets differ from weight-loss versions, the importance of monitoring labs and ketones, and the lifestyle factors—like exercise, sunlight, and stress management—that make the biggest difference for brain and body health.Whether you’re a clinician, a patient, or simply curious about the connection between food, metabolism, and mental health, this conversation will leave you inspired and informed.How metabolic psychiatry is reshaping mental health careWhy the brain sometimes “starves” for energy despite normal blood sugarThe differences between therapeutic ketogenic diets and popular “keto-friendly” foodsKey lifestyle practices—like exercise, sunlight, and mind-body work—that amplify metabolic brain healthHow gut health, supplements, and lab testing tie into psychiatric outcomesThe role of insulin resistance in both physical and mental illnessPractical tips for finding the right clinician trained in metabolic therapiesBooks:Brain Energy by Dr. Christopher PalmerChange Your Diet, Change Your Mind by Dr. Georgia EdeGood Energy by Dr. Casey MeansTechnology tools:Blood ketone meters (Keto-Mojo)Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) Click here for the Lingo by Abbott and use discount code ABNTP-Hnv03 for 10% off.Dr. Bernstein’s program: Akkord MHDr. Matt Bernstein is a psychiatrist with 25 years of experience helping individuals achieve recovery and mental wellness. After serving in leadership roles at Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean, he turned his focus to metabolic psychiatry. He now serves as Chief Medical Officer at Ellenhorn and runs a pioneering residential program integrating ketogenic therapy and lifestyle interventions. Dr. Bernstein also co-leads research, advises nonprofit boards, and is a leading advocate for metabolic health in mental health care.LinkedIn: Matt Bernstein, MDProgram Website: accordmh.comConnect with Cody: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with anyone who might benefit from these insights. Have questions or suggestions? Send Cody a message on Signal Messenger: cox.07Follow Cody on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ for more tips and conversations about holistic nutrition, mental health, and family wellness.To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠⁠⁠⁠To access cli

047: Metabolic Brain Health and Why it Matters with Matt Bernstein, MD

Have you ever stood in the grocery aisle staring at food labels—“organic,” “all-natural,” “low-fat,” “cage-free,” “pasture-raised”—and wondered what they really mean? In this episode, Cody Cox welcomes back Katie Kirklin, Certified Functional Nutrition Counselor and Registered Nurse, for a practical conversation about how to cut through the confusion and find truly nourishing foods for you and your family.Together, Cody and Katie unpack:Whole foods vs. ultra-processed foods: Why single-ingredient foods are the foundation of health.Organic vs. all-natural: What’s regulated, what’s marketing fluff, and how to make smarter choices.Greenwashing tactics: The sneaky ways companies use packaging, colors, and words to make unhealthy products look healthy.Eggs, meat, and dairy labels: Cage-free, free-range, pasture-raised, grass-fed, grass-finished—what actually matters.The truth about GMOs/bioengineered foods and why they’re best avoided.Eating well on a budget: Tips like shopping seasonally, buying frozen, and using the Dirty Dozen & Clean 15 lists.Cleaner living beyond food: How to choose safer cleaning and personal care products with help from EWG.Local and sustainable options: From farmers’ markets to backyard chickens to community apps like Farmish.Katie also shares resources such as the Weston A. Price Foundation, realmilk.com, ewg.org and EatWild.com for finding local farmers and higher-quality food sources.Find the 2025 Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists here.👉 Where to find Katie:Website: katiekirklin.comInstagram: @katiekirklinnutritionConnect with Cody: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with anyone who might benefit from these insights. Have questions or suggestions? Send Cody a message on Signal Messenger: cox.07Follow Cody on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ for more tips and conversations about holistic nutrition, mental health, and family wellness.To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠⁠⁠⁠To access clinical-grade (the highest quality) supplements and other health products, ⁠⁠⁠⁠visit my dispensary⁠⁠⁠⁠.Visit his website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠beavercreekwellness.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ where you can read more about him and schedule sessions.

046: Grass-fed, Organic, All-Natural: What do all of These Food Labels Mean? with Katie Kirklin

I'm taking a bit of a break this week because back-to-school time is a very busy time of year for healthcare providers! It's ironic; people generally don't want to take care of their health during the summer, then in September and October, all of a sudden, they are interested again and my schedule fills up.This is a brief episode where I review my services and mention a few resources that may be of interest to you.Read more about me at beavercreekwellness.comRegister for the Wise Traditions conference at wisetraditions.orgHave a great week!Cody Cox

045: Get Some Help with Metabolic Health, and Other Announcements

Episode Summary:Your poop is more than a waste product—it’s a daily health report. In this episode of Real Food Mental Health, Katie Kirklin, Certified Functional Nutrition Counselor and Registered Nurse, explains how your bowel movements can reveal important clues about your digestion, detoxification, and even your mental health.Katie shares her journey from conventional nursing to holistic nutrition, breaking down her three roots, many branches functional nutrition model. We cover what healthy poop looks like, what different stool colors might indicate, and simple, natural ways to improve digestion.We also explore the gut-brain connection—why 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut, how inflammation affects mood, and how small, consistent changes can lead to lasting wellness.If you want to improve your digestion, balance your hormones, and support your mental health naturally, this episode is your step-by-step guide.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How functional nutrition works to address root causes of health issuesSigns of healthy bowel movements & what your poop says about your healthThe three roots, many branches model for digestive healthCommon stool colors and what they may indicate (and when to see a doctor)The “non-negotiable trifecta” for healing: sleep, poop, and blood sugar balanceSimple strategies to improve digestion without drastic dietsHow the gut-brain axis impacts mood, anxiety, and overall mental healthWhy fiber, hydration, and mindful eating are essential for gut healthKeywords to Note for SEO:gut health, digestion, poop health, healthy bowel movements, functional nutrition, gut-brain connection, mental health, constipation, diarrhea, stool color chart, detoxification, serotonin production, digestive health tipsLinks & Resources Mentioned:Katie’s Website: Katie Kirklin NutritionInstagram: @KatieKirklinNutritionFunctional Nutrition Alliance (Andrea Nakayama’s program)Subscribe and review and check back for more soon.To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠To access clinical-grade (the highest quality) supplements and other health products, ⁠visit the dispensary⁠.Visit Cody’s website at ⁠beavercreekwellness.com⁠ where you can read more about him and schedule sessions.gut healthgut microbiomeprobiotics for gut healthprebiotics vs probioticshigh-fiber foods for gut healthfermented foods for digestiongut health and mental wellnesshow to heal your gut naturallyfunctional nutrition for digestiongut-brain connection

044: Gut Health & Poop: How Digestion Affects Mental Wellness with Functional Nutrition Counselor Katie Kirklin

I know I already had an episode on sleep (a solo episode), but I thought it would be nice to have a guest to talk with on the subject. Welcome Jade Twombly! She is a nutritional therapy practitioner and loves to talk about sleep.In this episode, we discuss sleep hygiene and the science behind why sleep is so important and what you can do to improve the quality, not just the quantity of your sleep. We also discuss the importance of doing certain things in the morning that help your sleep for the next night! Some of this episode might be a review of things I've already discussed in previous episodes, and some of it is new. Either way, enjoy!Find Jade at moveholistichealthandnutrition.com.Subscribe and review and check back for more soon.To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠To access clinical-grade (the highest quality) supplements and other health products, ⁠visit the dispensary⁠.Visit Cody’s website at ⁠beavercreekwellness.com⁠ where you can read more about him and schedule sessions.

043: More Tips for Better Sleep with Jade Twombly

There are a lot of people who don't know how to cook anymore! We are so busy with life that we grow up eating fast food and ultra-processed garbage. But no one is to blame; it's not like we do this on purpose (at least, not most of us). But how do you learn to cook when you were never taught growing up?It's easier than you think, and in today's episode, we talk about just that.Josh Noland is the host of the Health Unfiltered podcast. He is passionate about helping people help themselves.Check out Josh's podcast (and an interview with Cody) here.Today, we cover topics like:What kitchen equipment you needMethods for cookingSimple principles of cookingTips for keeping cooking less stressfulFind Josh at joshnoland.com.Subscribe and review and check back for more soon.To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠To access clinical-grade (the highest quality) supplements and other health products, ⁠visit the dispensary⁠.Visit Cody’s website at ⁠beavercreekwellness.com⁠ where you can read more about him and schedule sessions.

042: Simple Tips for Cooking Whole Foods with Joshua Noland

Episode Summary:In this compelling episode of Real Food Mental Health, host Cody Cox speaks with Sylvie Beljanski, a French lawyer-turned-health advocate who is continuing the legacy of her father, Dr. Mirko Beljanski—a pioneer in natural cancer research. Sylvie shares her powerful story of uncovering and defending her father’s suppressed cancer treatments based on natural plant extracts and RNA fragments, and how she turned adversity into action by launching the Beljanski Foundation and a supplement company to carry forward his groundbreaking work.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The story of Dr. Mirko Beljanski and his revolutionary discovery of plant-based compounds that selectively target cancer cellsHow political and pharmaceutical interests sought to suppress this promising natural cancer treatmentThe role of environmental toxins—including diet, water, air, and skincare products—in contributing to both cancer and mental health issuesThe gut-brain connection and how compromised digestion leads to emotional and immune dysfunctionHow RNA fragments developed by Dr. Beljanski support blood cell regeneration, serotonin production, and mood during chemotherapy or chronic illnessPractical steps to reduce your toxic load, support your liver, and embrace holistic detoxificationWhy the packaging of even organic products matters—and what materials are safestSylvie’s thoughts on inflammation as the root cause of disease and the importance of reducing toxic exposures dailyResources & Mentions:⁠The Beljanski Foundation⁠ – Research and publications on natural cancer therapies⁠Maison Beljanski⁠ – Sylvie’s company offering her father’s plant-based formulations⁠Sylvie Beljanski's personal website⁠Subscribe and review and check back for more soon.To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠⁠To access clinical-grade (the highest quality) supplements and other health products, ⁠⁠visit the dispensary⁠⁠.Visit Cody’s website at ⁠⁠beavercreekwellness.com⁠⁠ where you can read more about him and schedule sessions.KeywordsNatural cancer treatmentHolistic cancer healingEnvironmental toxins and healthGut-brain connectionFunctional medicine for cancerPlant-based cancer therapyInflammation and chronic diseaseNatural detox strategiesNon-toxic livingIntegrative oncology

041: Natural Cancer Treatment, Detox, and the Gut-Brain Connection with Sylvie Beljanski

Episode Summary:In this inspiring episode of Real Food Mental Health, host Cody Cox sits down with Jeff Pearson—speaker, author, nonprofit director, and host of Invisible Condition on e360TV. Jeff shares his powerful journey of living with hydrocephalus, a condition that has required him to undergo seven brain surgeries since infancy.Cody and Jeff dive deep into the challenges of living with invisible medical conditions—from arthritis and fibromyalgia to schizophrenia and ADHD—and the misunderstandings that often surround them. They also explore the link between physical illness and mental health, the parasympathetic nervous system&#39;s role in healing, and the importance of holistic approaches including diet, mindfulness, and faith.Whether you live with an invisible condition or support someone who does, this conversation is a powerful reminder: you’re not alone, there is hope, and there’s a community that understands.Topics covered:Jeff’s journey with hydrocephalus and multiple brain surgeriesThe inspiration behind Invisible Condition, Jeff’s weekly TV showThe stigma and misunderstanding of invisible illnessesHow diet, gut healing, and functional nutrition can support chronic conditionsExploring parasympathetic activation for healingFaith, mindfulness, and coping with fear and uncertaintyAlternatives to conventional medicine and the need for integrative careThe emotional toll of Alzheimer&#39;s and dementia on familiesMemorable Quotes:“Not everything is as it seems. You never know what someone is going through—especially when it’s invisible.” – Jeff Pearson“Faith, for me, means trusting that no matter the outcome of surgery, I’ll either wake up to my wife’s face or the face of Jesus—and I’m okay with either.” – Jeff Pearson“Doctors are not gods. They are people with jobs—and you can get a second opinion.” – Cody CoxResources:Hydro With Hope – Jeff’s nonprofit supporting families with hydrocephalusInvisible Condition TV Show or on YouTubeCatch Jeff Pearson every Tuesday and Friday at 12pm ET / 9am PT on e360TV’s Invisible Condition, where he interviews guests thriving despite hidden health challenges.Cody will also appear on Invisible Condition on August 8—stay tuned for more!📧 TV Show Inquiries: invisiblecondition@e360tv.com📧 Hydrocephalus Support: jeff@hydrowithhope.orgSubscribe and review and check back for more soon.To support Cody and the production of this podcast, go to ⁠ko-fi.com/codycox ⁠To access clinical-grade (the highest quality) supplements and other health products, ⁠visit the dispensary⁠.Visit Cody’s website at ⁠beavercreekwellness.com⁠ where you can read more about him and schedule sessions.Keywords:invisible illness podcastliving with hydrocephalushydrocephalus awarenessreal food mental healthchronic illness and mental healthholistic mental health podcastfunctional nutrition for chronic illnessbrain surgery recovery storiesJeff Pearson Invisible Conditio

Get Started

Download the App