Becoming Immune Confident – Details, episodes & analysis

We all know that movement is essential for health, but what if you're dealing with chronic pain? Many people feel limited, even discouraged, from embracing movement because of fear or past experiences.
But what if that even with chronic pain, movement can be a source of joy and empowerment?

In this week's podcast episode of the Becoming Immune Confident Podcast, Dr. Kara Wada had the pleasure of speaking with DK Ciccone, a certified Pilates instructor and author of "You're Meant to Move," who shares her personal journey of navigating chronic back pain and reclaiming her love of movement.
DK emphasizes that our bodies are designed to move, and even with pain, we can find ways to engage in activities that bring us joy and support our well-being. She encourages us to shift our perspective on pain, exploring the role of the nervous system and how we can foster a deeper connection with our bodies.
DK's inspiring message reminds us that movement is not just about achieving a certain aesthetic, but about cultivating a deeper sense of agency, self-compassion, and resilience.

EPISODE IN A GLANCE
01:40 DK Ciccone's Personal Journey with Chronic Pain
04:35 The role of body image and diet culture in shaping our relationship with pain
07:36 Unhelpful Messages and Misconceptions About Pain
10:38 The Impact of Dismissive Medical Advice
12:58 Holistic Approach to Pain Management
17:53 Building Resilience and Managing Pain Flares
24:45 Pain Reprocessing Therapy and Somatic Tracking
28:39 Finding Joy in Movement
30:49 Core Message of the book 'You're Meant to Move'
33:07 Conclusion and How to Connect with DK Ciccone

ABOUT DANA KAREN (“DK”) CICCONE
Dana Karen (“DK”) Ciccone is a certified Pilates instructor who helps people in pain improve strength, mobility, and well-being in a weight-neutral environment. She’s also trained in pain reprocessing therapy through the Pain Psychology Center. Having begun her own journey with chronic back pain as a young teen, she has been exploring ways to help herself and others regain joy of movement for decades. After twenty years in the health sector, DK left a corporate career to follow her passion, later launching Movement Remedies, a chronic pain–focused Pilates studio in Boston, Massachusetts. Her first book, You’re Meant to Move: A Guide to Conquering Chronic Pain, Increasing Stress Resilience, and Reclaiming an Active Life, was released December 2023.

CONNECT WITH DANA KAREN (“DK”) CICCONE

Website → https://movementremedies.org 
LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-karen-ciccone 
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/movement_remedies/ 
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/movement.remedies.llc/ 
YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@movementremediesllc 

Pick up a copy of DK Ciccone's book, "You're Meant to Move: A Guide to Conquering Chronic Pain, Increasing Stress Resilience, and Reclaiming an Active Life," available on Amazon.

ABOUT DR KARA WADA
Quadruple board-certified pediatric and adult allergy immunology & lifestyle medicine physician, Sjogren’s patient and life coach shares her recipe for success combining anti-inflammatory lifestyle, trusting therapeutic relationships, modern medicine & our minds to harness our body’s ability to heal.

CONNECT WITH DR WADA

Website → https://www.drkarawada.com/ 
LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/karawadamd/ 
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/immuneconfident/ 
Podcast Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/becomingimmuneconfident/ 
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/KaraWadaMD 
Twitter → https://twitter.com/CrunchyAllergy 
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@immuneconfident 

SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER → https://www.drkarawada.com/newsletter 
Get Dr. Kara’s weekly dose of a naturally-minded and scientifically-grounded approach to immune system health.

JOIN THE 28-DAY Sjogren's Superpowers Activated Challenge: A Journey to Better Health and Unshakeable Confidence → https://www.drkarawada.com/sjogrens-28day-challenge 

We all know the importance of a strong immune system, but what if the key to unlocking your immune confidence lies within your gut? That's right, the health of your digestive system plays a crucial role in bolstering your immune defenses.

In this episode, Dr. Kara Wada welcomes the brilliant Dr. Vivian Asamoah, a board-certified gastroenterologist specializing in functional medicine, to discuss the powerful connection between the gut and the immune system. Together, they talk about the science behind the gut-immune axis, explore common signs of an unhealthy gut, and discuss strategies for supporting gut health and overall well-being. Dr. Asamoah shares valuable insights from her practice, including a fascinating success story about a patient who overcame debilitating digestive issues through targeted treatment of a yeast overgrowth.

Listen now and join us as we explore the fascinating world of gut health and its profound impact on our immune system!

EPISODE IN A GLANCE
-Gut Health Secrets for a Stronger Immune System
-Dr. Asamoah's Journey from Conventional Medicine to Functional Medicine
-The Gut-Immune System Connection Explained
-Common Signs of an Unhealthy Gut
-Navigating Food Sensitivities and Restrictive Diets
-Understanding Food Intolerances and Elimination Diets
-Exploring Additional Gut Health Challenges like SIBO, LIBO, and Yeast Overgrowth
-The Importance of Integrating Traditional Medicine into Modern Healthcare
-A Successful Case Study Involving a Patient with Severe Food Sensitivity and Candida Overgrowth
-Building Immune Confidence through Diet, Lifestyle, and Stress Management
-How to Connect with Dr. Asamoah on Social Media

ABOUT DR VIVIAN ASAMOAH

Dr. Vivian Asamoah is a board-certified gastroenterologist, hepatologist, and nutritionist with a passion for functional medicine. She completed her fellowship at Johns Hopkins University Hospital and is CEO of Houston Gastro Institute, where she has served the West Houston community for over a decade. Dr. Asamoah is a renowned speaker, educator, and patient advocate, sharing her expertise on the impact of diet and lifestyle on gut health through her popular "Natural Gut Relief" Facebook community and YouTube channel. She is also the host of the weekly Facebook show "Back to Basics," featuring prominent guest interviews. Dr. Asamoah's commitment to personalized, integrated care is evident in her practice, which focuses on addressing the root causes of digestive issues through a combination of conventional and functional medicine approaches. She is actively involved in clinical trials exploring cutting-edge therapies for gastrointestinal conditions.

CONNECT WITH DR VIVIAN ASAMOAH

LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivian-asamoah-md-6258b694/ 
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/drvivianasamoah/ 
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/drvivianasamoah 
YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbmhQMF6VJyKrmCxFJyKIHA 

ABOUT DR KARA WADA
Quadruple board-certified pediatric and adult allergy immunology & lifestyle medicine physician, Sjogren’s patient and life coach shares her recipe for success combining anti-inflammatory lifestyle, trusting therapeutic relationships, modern medicine & our minds to harness our body’s ability to heal.

CONNECT WITH DR WADA
Website → https://www.drkarawada.com/ 
LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/karawadamd/ 
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/immuneconfident/ 
Podcast Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/becomingimmuneconfident/ 
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/KaraWadaMD 
Twitter → https://twitter.com/CrunchyAllergy 
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@immuneconfidentmd 

SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER → https://www.drkarawada.com/newsletter 
Get Dr. Kara’s weekly dose of a naturally-minded and scientifically-grounded approach to immune system health.

Are you struggling to find a way to eat that reduces inflammation, while still feeling satisfied and enjoying yourself?

In this episode, join board-certified allergist-immunologist, Dr. Kara Wada, and autoimmune dietician, Jenifer Tharani, as they dig into the science and art of anti-inflammatory meal planning. Through easy-to-follow tips and tricks, they'll show you how to incorporate foods that naturally combat inflammation into your everyday diet without sacrificing taste or convenience. You'll leave this episode feeling inspired and well-equipped to make healthy choices to reduce inflammation and improve your overall well-being.

Tired of feeling limited by inflammation? Listen to this latest episode and learn more.

If you're ready to ditch the fatigue, fog, and pain, and finally take control of your health, the BIC Jumpstart Program is your answer. Join the waitlist now at immuneconfident.com and embark on a journey toward a stronger, more vibrant you.

EPISODE IN A GLANCE

-The importance of fiber: balancing soluble and insoluble fiber for optimal gut health
-Plant-based protein sources and their role in reducing inflammation
-Omega-3s: why you should include oily fish and plant-based sources.
-The art of meal planning and prepping: making it enjoyable and sustainable.
-Quick recipe hacks: how to make your favorite dishes anti-inflammatory friendly
-Invitation to Join the Becoming Immune Confident Jumpstart

ABOUT JENIFER THARANI

Registered dietitian and the daughter of a chronic illness warrior. She believes that eating healthy does not have to be boring, time-consuming, or expensive. She is extremely passionate about helping women with chronic illnesses adopt an anti-inflammatory, gut-healing eating pattern without unwarranted food eliminations.

CONNECT WITH JEN

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/minimalist.autoimmunenutrition/ 

ABOUT DR KARA WADA

Quadruple board-certified pediatric and adult allergy immunology & lifestyle medicine physician, Sjogren’s patient and life coach shares her recipe for success combining anti-inflammatory lifestyle, trusting therapeutic relationships, modern medicine & our minds to harness our body’s ability to heal.

CONNECT WITH DR WADA

Website → https://www.drkarawada.com/ 
LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/karawadamd/ 
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/immuneconfident/ 
Podcast Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/becomingimmuneconfident/ 
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/KaraWadaMD 
Twitter → https://twitter.com/CrunchyAllergy 
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@immuneconfident 

SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER → https://www.drkarawada.com/newsletter 

Get Dr. Kara’s weekly dose of a naturally-minded and scientifically-grounded approach to immune system health.

JOIN THE BECOMING IMMUNE CONFIDENT JUMPSTART WAITLIST!

If you are looking for support and realize that 2024 is the year that you gain a deep understanding of your body, learn to trust your ability to navigate the uncertainties that come along with living with chronic inflammation and build a lifestyle that supports and nourishes your immune system...

GET ON THE WAITLIST HERE→ https://www.immuneconfident.com 

Sarah Boyles is an expert urogynecologist (FPMRS) with more than 15 years of clinical experience. She manages her successful group practice, publishes widely in her field and creates national FPMRS quality standards. Recognizing the need for pelvic floor education in society at large, she has recently pivoted to creating quality content for women that is easy to obtain outside the clinical arena. You can see her work at thewomensbladderdoctor.com and on Instagram @thewomensbladderdoctor.

To learn more about the Anti-inflammatory Re-defined Autoimmunity Re-imagined program visit: 

bit.ly/AIRsquared

On this special episode, we are featuring a session from the recent Aila Autoimmune Warrior Summit. This session is a discussion of the role of coaching in caring for autoimmune warriors. What is coaching? How can a coach help? How do you find a coach? 

If you missed the Summit, you can find the sessions on the Free Aila App (download in the app store). The Aila app is also a great resource to track your symptoms. #notsponsored

Also mentioned in this episode:  

In this 2 day experience, Dr. Wada and nutritionist Jenifer will share practical strategies with you to alleviate "Autoimmune Depression".

June 6th & 7th @ Noon EST (will be Recorded)

RESERVE YOUR SEAT

Dr. Alexis Hugelmeyer, is a coffee-drinking, wanderlusting, wife, mama of three, and Board Certified Family & Osteopathic Medicine Physician. She has spent most of her thirteen year career taking care of the sickest hospital patients knowing that most of them were suffering from preventable, even reversible conditions. In her practice, Dr. Lex focuses on nine fundamental pillars of health and provides patients the education, support and accountability needed to set and achieve their health goals.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlexlifestylemed

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlexlifestylemed/

Website: https://www.drlexlifestylemedicine.com/

 A 2-Day event taking place June 6th & 7th!

RESERVE YOUR SEAT

Part 2!

Dr. Adrian Chavez is the host of The Nutrition Science Podcast and founder of the Dr. Chavez School of Nutrition.   He holds a PhD in Nutrition and Health Promotion from Arizona State University where his research was focused on translating the scientific principles of nutrition into real-world practice for chronic disease prevention.   He has a strong passion for fighting against misinformation and helping people get access to practical high quality, evidence-based nutrition guidance.   You can find him on Instagram @DrAdrianChavez where he is highly active dispelling myths and teaching basic nutrition concepts in practical and entertaining ways.

www.instagram.com/dr.Adrian.chavez

The CME experience for this Podcast is powered by CMEfy - click here to reflect and unlock credits & more: 

5 Foods People with Sjogren's Don't Need to Fear

Dr. Adrian Chavez is the host of The Nutrition Science Podcast and founder of the Dr. Chavez School of Nutrition.   He holds a PhD in Nutrition and Health Promotion from Arizona State University where his research was focused on translating the scientific principles of nutrition into real-world practice for chronic disease prevention.   He has a strong passion for fighting against misinformation and helping people get access to practical high quality, evidence-based nutrition guidance.   You can find him on Instagram @DrAdrianChavez where he is highly active dispelling myths and teaching basic nutrition concepts in practical and entertaining ways.

www.instagram.com/dr.Adrian.chavez

The CME experience for this Podcast is powered by CMEfy - click here to reflect and unlock credits & more: https://earnc.me/nuvvYc

5 Foods People with Sjogren's Don't Need to Fear

 Amber Patterson, MD is a world-renowned allergy/immunology expert and the US ambassador for intralymphatic allergen immunotherapy (ILIT). Before founding Allergy Unlimited, she developed the first US clinical trial for ILIT (first in the world for pediatrics) as faculty at the Ohio State University and Nationwide Children’s hospital where she founded the Center for Immunotherapy. She holds several patents on novel allergy testing devices. A passion for creating systems for identifying the root of immune dysfunction (allergy) or deficiency (low immune function), and then co-developing a plan for healing and empowerment are the driving forces behind her work.

Dr. Patterson leads as vice chair of the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) immunotherapy and diagnostics committee. Believing in the powerful connection between mind and body, she also volunteers on her local community recreation center (YMCA) board of directors and on the committee for childcare, aiming to co-create positive community resources for physical, mental, and spiritual growth. As a wife and mother of four, Amber has the most fun with her family, playing in nature or traveling the world.

The CME experience for this Podcast is powered by CMEfy - click here to reflect and unlock credits & more: https://earnc.me/J69UUE

If you suffer from tummy troubles or are confused about how to approach eating to support your immune system health, this is a must-listen episode!  

In this podcast, you will learn about a non-restrictive approach to anti-inflammatory eating from my good friend and partner, Jenifer.

Jenifer Tharani is a registered dietitian and daughter of a chronic illness warrior. Jenifer believes that eating healthy does not have to be boring, time-consuming, or expensive. She is extremely passionate about helping women with chronic illness adopt an anti-inflammatory, gut-healing eating pattern without unwarranted food eliminations.

She doesn’t believe in diets, instead of making small sustainable lifestyle changes to help you find a balance in your everyday life, including trying to keep your favorite foods in the mix!

Jenifer’s mantra is “Give a Man a Fish, and You Feed Him for a Day. Teach a Man to Fish, and You Feed Him for a Lifetime”. Her nutrition coaching programs empower you with nutrition education, provide you with accountability to take action and experience transformations, and an inclusive community of women going through the same struggles so you don't feel alone.

Have you struggled with food?