On this episode, I interview Dr. Cristina McMullen, a naturopathic doctor and wellness coach, who shares her background in alternative medicine and her extensive experience treating patients with tick-borne infections. Dr. McMullen explains how she became passionate about this field after witnessing the positive results of holistic treatments at Longevity Health Center, where she has worked for nearly 20 years. We discuss the complexities of PANS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders) and its relation to Lyme disease, with Dr. McMullen highlighting the need for individualized treatment approaches.

Dr. McMullen discusses the importance of building immune resilience in children, emphasizing that despite potential exposure to pathogens like Lyme disease, children can be protected and empowered to lead healthy lives. She shares success stories of patients who recover from chronic health conditions and thrive academically. Dr. McMullen stresses the need for education and preparation rather than fear, encouraging outdoor activities while teaching practical measures to handle potential infections.

This is an important episode as children are the hardest hit population when it comes to Lyme and tick-borne illness, and they experience a litany of symptoms related to their cognitive abilities which could derail their academic life, as well as their physical health permanently if left undiagnosed and untreated. PANS/PANDAS is something that often accompanies tick-borne illness so being informed and aware is crucial.

On this week's episode, my guest Arden shares her experience with Lyme disease, which began after a dental procedure that led to severe neurological issues, anxiety, and depression. She was fortunate to have a Lyme literate doctor who diagnosed her and recommended treatment. Arden tried various treatments but found them ineffective, leading her to seek alternative therapies in Mexico. After undergoing hyperthermia and oxidative therapies, Arden experienced a significant improvement in her condition. She emphasized the importance of hormone optimization during treatment, as it helped alleviate her symptoms. Arden also discussed the challenges of managing Lyme disease, including the difficulty of finding effective treatments and the impact on mental health.

I hope this episode gives you some ideas on treatment options especially if you are struggling to find one that works. As you can tell from Arden's experience, she really had to figure out some alternative options to regain her health but was successful with her efforts.

Feedback is always welcomed. Leave a comment below and like and follow this channel if this was helpful and useful information.

Are you aware that ticks can spread more than Lyme? Sadly, they also possess the power to transmit a number of co-infections, one being babesiosis. This week's guest, Dr. Geoffrey Dow, is no stranger to understanding the wrath of this infection. He studies it extensively alongside malaria and dengue fever. After his daughter struggled with Lyme and tick-borne illnesses, Dr. Dow was compelled to co-found 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals. His company has developed a drug to combat babesia called Arakoda, which kills all lifecycle stages of the parasite, similar to malaria treatment, and targets persistent forms to prevent relapse.

Take a listen as Dr. Dow discusses the challenges in diagnosing babesiosis, noting that while acute cases can be detected through blood smears, standard PCR tests become ineffective soon after symptoms subside. Dr. Dow estimates that there are up to 900,000 cases of babesiosis a year, making better testing and treatment imperative.

Dr. Dow will also be needing participants for 60 Degrees chronic babesiosis study once it opens for enrollment so keep your eyes peeled for this to happen soon if you are interested in helping.