How neurotransmitter balance, genetics, and dopamine–glutamate regulation shape ADHD symptoms—and why medication alone often misses the root.
In this episode, we explore the often-missing neurotransmitter layer of ADHD. We discuss how dopamine, glutamate, and genetic differences shape focus, mood, movement, and sleep—and why many ADHD behaviors are the body’s attempt to regulate itself. We also explain why quick labels and medications can overlook infections, airway issues, nutrient imbalances, and environmental triggers. This conversation reframes ADHD as a signal, not a failure, and highlights why root-cause evaluation matters.
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt, MD, IFMCP, is a board-certified pediatrician and Certified Practitioner of Functional Medicine through The Institute for Functional Medicine. As the founder of Hope for Healing, she has dedicated her career to helping children and adults uncover the root causes of complex health challenges. One of the few pediatricians worldwide to hold IFMCP certification, Dr. Kruppstadt is also an expert in PANS/PANDAS and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the state’s Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council, where she advises on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education for these conditions.
Hope For Healing
Website: https://get2theroot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get2theroot.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get2theroot.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get2theroot-co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW3cTdaOinactGlRUcSn0g
PODCAST
Thank you for listening.
Please subscribe and share.
This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com
How nutrition, sugar, and food additives affect ADHD symptoms—and simple, realistic steps parents can take to support focus and behavior.
In this episode, I sit down with Lauren Peters to unpack how nutrition directly impacts children with ADHD. We explore why artificial additives, sugar spikes, and nutrient depletion can drive behavior and focus challenges—and how simple shifts toward real food, protein, healthy fats, and balance can make a meaningful difference. This conversation is about realistic, grace-filled nutrition strategies that support the whole family without trauma or perfectionism.
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt, MD, IFMCP, is a board-certified pediatrician and Certified Practitioner of Functional Medicine through The Institute for Functional Medicine. As the founder of Hope for Healing, she has dedicated her career to helping children and adults uncover the root causes of complex health challenges. One of the few pediatricians worldwide to hold IFMCP certification, Dr. Kruppstadt is also an expert in PANS/PANDAS and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the state’s Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council, where she advises on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education for these conditions.
Hope For Healing
Website: https://get2theroot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get2theroot.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get2theroot.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get2theroot-co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW3cTdaOinactGlRUcSn0g
PODCAST
Thank you for listening.
Please subscribe and share.
This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com
Discover how airway dysfunction, poor sleep, and nighttime breathing issues can mimic ADHD symptoms and impact focus, mood, and behavior.
In this episode, I begin a three-part ADHD series by exploring a connection many families never consider: the airway. We unpack how mouth breathing, restless sleep, snoring, and subtle facial or oral signs can impair brain detoxification and energy, leading to symptoms that look like ADHD. By understanding how sleep quality and breathing affect focus and behavior, families can uncover a hopeful, root-cause path forward.
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt, MD, IFMCP, is a board-certified pediatrician and Certified Practitioner of Functional Medicine through The Institute for Functional Medicine. As the founder of Hope for Healing, she has dedicated her career to helping children and adults uncover the root causes of complex health challenges. One of the few pediatricians worldwide to hold IFMCP certification, Dr. Kruppstadt is also an expert in PANS/PANDAS and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the state’s Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council, where she advises on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education for these conditions.
Hope For Healing
Website: https://get2theroot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get2theroot.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get2theroot.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get2theroot-co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW3cTdaOinactGlRUcSn0g
PODCAST
Thank you for listening.
Please subscribe and share.
This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com
Practical strategies from Dr. Paula Kruppstadt on managing CIRS, stress, sleep, food, and family dynamics during the holidays.
----
In this episode, I share how to move through the holidays when you’re living with CIRS or any chronic illness. We talk about lowering expectations, managing mold exposures, using binders, supporting stress with L-theanine and NAC, protecting sleep, setting boundaries, choosing foods that serve your body, and remembering what truly brings joy. If the holidays feel overwhelming, I hope this conversation brings compassion, calm, and practical support.
----
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt, MD, IFMCP, is a board-certified pediatrician and Certified Practitioner of Functional Medicine through The Institute for Functional Medicine. As the founder of Hope for Healing, she has dedicated her career to helping children and adults uncover the root causes of complex health challenges. One of the few pediatricians worldwide to hold IFMCP certification, Dr. Kruppstadt is also an expert in PANS/PANDAS and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the state’s Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council, where she advises on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education for these conditions.
----
Hope For Healing
Website: https://get2theroot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get2theroot.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get2theroot.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get2theroot-co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW3cTdaOinactGlRUcSn0g
----
PODCAST
Thank you for listening.
Please subscribe and share.
This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com
A functional medicine holiday gift guide with Dr. Paula Kruppstadt featuring stocking stuffers, mid-budget options, and powerful wellness investments for healing.
----
In this special holiday episode, I share my curated list of functional medicine gift ideas designed to inspire purposeful giving and support long-term wellness. From immune-boosting stocking stuffers to EMF protection, red light therapy, saunas, and personalized genetic panels, I walk through the thoughtful tools I use personally and recommend for my patients. Whether you're investing in a loved one's health or upgrading your own daily habits, this guide offers gifts that nourish, restore, and empower healing.
----
🎁 Explore the Gift Collection Looking for the perfect wellness gift? Browse the Functionally Minded Christmas Gifts Collection curated by Dr. Paula Kruppstadt. From stocking stuffers to high-impact health tools, each item is handpicked to support healing and intentional living.
----
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt, MD, IFMCP, is a board-certified pediatrician and Certified Practitioner of Functional Medicine through The Institute for Functional Medicine. As the founder of Hope for Healing, she has dedicated her career to helping children and adults uncover the root causes of complex health challenges. One of the few pediatricians worldwide to hold IFMCP certification, Dr. Kruppstadt is also an expert in PANS/PANDAS and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the state’s Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council, where she advises on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education for these conditions.
----
Hope For Healing
Website: https://get2theroot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get2theroot.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get2theroot.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get2theroot-co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW3cTdaOinactGlRUcSn0g
----
PODCAST
Thank you for listening.
Please subscribe and share.
This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com
Chronic constipation affects far more than the gut. Dr. Paula Kruppstadt explains how toxin buildup, mitochondrial issues, and hidden stool burdens impact whole-body health.
----
In this episode, I explain what really happens when constipation goes untreated and why it affects far more than the gut. We cover the ripple effects of stool buildup—headaches, reflux, malabsorption, toxin recirculation, inflammation, and even focus and behavior issues. I also share how genetics like GSTP1 and mitochondrial SNPs contribute to chronic constipation, and how vitamin C, magnesium, and targeted support can help restore normal motility and comfort.
----
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt, MD, IFMCP, is a board-certified pediatrician and Certified Practitioner of Functional Medicine through The Institute for Functional Medicine. As the founder of Hope for Healing, she has dedicated her career to helping children and adults uncover the root causes of complex health challenges. One of the few pediatricians worldwide to hold IFMCP certification, Dr. Kruppstadt is also an expert in PANS/PANDAS and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the state’s Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council, where she advises on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education for these conditions.
----
Hope For Healing
Website: https://get2theroot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get2theroot.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get2theroot.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get2theroot-co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW3cTdaOinactGlRUcSn0g
----
PODCAST
Thank you for listening.
Please subscribe and share.
This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com https://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Constipation is common—but not normal. Dr. Paula Kruppstadt explains healthy stool patterns, root causes, and how to help kids poop comfortably and consistently.
----
In this episode, I break down what constipation really is, what healthy poop looks like, and why so many children struggle with it. We talk about stool patterns from infancy through childhood, common triggers like hydration, fiber, posture, and bathroom habits, and why Miralax isn’t as harmless as many believe. I also explain the GSTP1 detox gene and how genetics and gut health play a role in chronic constipation. This is a simple, practical guide for parents to help their kids feel better.
----
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt, MD, IFMCP, is a board-certified pediatrician and Certified Practitioner of Functional Medicine through The Institute for Functional Medicine. As the founder of Hope for Healing, she has dedicated her career to helping children and adults uncover the root causes of complex health challenges. One of the few pediatricians worldwide to hold IFMCP certification, Dr. Kruppstadt is also an expert in PANS/PANDAS and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the state’s Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council, where she advises on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education for these conditions.
----
Hope For Healing
Website: https://get2theroot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get2theroot.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get2theroot.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get2theroot-co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW3cTdaOinactGlRUcSn0g
----
PODCAST
Thank you for listening.
Please subscribe and share.
This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com https://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Explore all the products mentioned in this episode, support for gut health, eczema relief, and overall wellness—right here: https://get2theroot.myshopify.com/collections/podcast-episode-6-products
----
Discover how gut health, glutathione, food, and environment influence eczema—and how to calm skin from the inside out.
----
In this episode, Dr. Paula Kruppstadt reveals why eczema is more than dry skin—it’s a signal from the body that something deeper needs healing. She shares her personal story as a mom, explains the vital role of glutathione and gut health, and outlines how foods like dairy and gluten can trigger flare-ups. Listeners will learn how to start with simple lifestyle changes, environmental awareness, and compassion, turning frustration into hope for lasting relief.
----
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt, MD, IFMCP, is a board-certified pediatrician and Certified Practitioner of Functional Medicine through The Institute for Functional Medicine. As the founder of Hope for Healing, she has dedicated her career to helping children and adults uncover the root causes of complex health challenges. One of the few pediatricians worldwide to hold IFMCP certification, Dr. Kruppstadt is also an expert in PANS/PANDAS and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the state’s Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council, where she advises on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education for these conditions.
----
Website: https://get2theroot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get2theroot.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get2theroot.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get2theroot-co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW3cTdaOinactGlRUcSn0g
----
PODCAST
Thank you for listening.
Please subscribe and share.
This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com https://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt shares her inspiring journey from depression and misdiagnosis to hope and healing through genetics, faith, and functional medicine.
----
In this deeply personal episode, Dr. Paula Kruppstadt shares her remarkable story of healing after years of depression, weight struggles, and medical burnout. Through discovering functional medicine and precision genetics, she uncovered the biological roots of her own suffering and found a new mission to help others do the same. Dr. K and Lauren Peters explore how genetics, inflammation, and faith intersect in the path to healing—and why understanding your body’s blueprint can transform your health and your life.
----
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt, MD, IFMCP, is a board-certified pediatrician and Certified Practitioner of Functional Medicine through The Institute for Functional Medicine. As the founder of Hope for Healing, she has dedicated her career to helping children and adults uncover the root causes of complex health challenges. One of the few pediatricians worldwide to hold IFMCP certification, Dr. Kruppstadt is also an expert in PANS/PANDAS and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the state’s Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council, where she advises on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education for these conditions.
----
Website: https://get2theroot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get2theroot.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get2theroot.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get2theroot-co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW3cTdaOinactGlRUcSn0g
----
PODCAST
Thank you for listening.
Please subscribe and share.
This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com https://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt unpacks how hormones, toxins, gut health, and genetics shape women’s wellness from puberty through menopause.
----
Hormones influence health at every stage of life, from childhood through menopause. In this episode, Dr. Paula Kruppstadt explains the major hormones that shape women’s health and how they shift across the lifespan. She discusses the role of thyroid, adrenal, and sex hormones, the impact of environmental toxins and endocrine disruptors, and how gut health ties it all together. With practical strategies such as diet, lifestyle changes, and flaxseed support, this conversation highlights how functional medicine helps restore balance for women at every age.
----
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt, MD, IFMCP, is a board-certified pediatrician and Certified Practitioner of Functional Medicine through The Institute for Functional Medicine. As the founder of Hope for Healing, she has dedicated her career to helping children and adults uncover the root causes of complex health challenges. One of the few pediatricians worldwide to hold IFMCP certification, Dr. Kruppstadt is also an expert in PANS/PANDAS and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the state’s Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council, where she advises on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education for these conditions.
----
Website: https://get2theroot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get2theroot.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get2theroot.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get2theroot-co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW3cTdaOinactGlRUcSn0g
----
PODCAST
Thank you for listening.
Please subscribe and share.
This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com https://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Discover how families living with PANS/PANDAS can find support, reduce shame, and nurture healing with guidance from Dr. Paula Kruppstadt.
----
In this final episode of our three-part PANS/PANDAS series, Dr. Paula Kruppstadt and host Lauren Peters explore what life looks like for families navigating these conditions—and how to find real hope in the process. They discuss the importance of reframing symptoms as brain inflammation rather than misbehavior, the impact of shame on children, and practical strategies for parents to care for themselves without guilt.
Dr. K explains the biological underpinnings of OCD, anxiety, and compulsions in PANS/PANDAS, and shares tools to help during symptom flares, including supplements and anti-inflammatory supports. The conversation also covers advocating for children in schools, using resources like Aspire.care, understanding genetic vulnerabilities, and recognizing that remission is possible.
Filled with encouragement, practical advice, and reminders that families are not alone, this episode brings the series to a close with a strong message of hope, healing, and community. Life with PANS or PANDAS affects the entire family, but hope is possible. In the final episode of this series, Dr. Paula Kruppstadt shares why it is vital to reframe symptoms not as misbehavior but as brain inflammation. She provides strategies for supporting children at home and school, discusses the importance of reducing shame, and emphasizes self-care for parents. This conversation also highlights community resources, genetic insights, and practical tools that can help children move into remission. Families will leave encouraged, equipped, and reminded that they are not alone.
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt, MD, IFMCP, is a board-certified pediatrician and Certified Practitioner of Functional Medicine through The Institute for Functional Medicine. As the founder of Hope for Healing, she has dedicated her career to helping children and adults uncover the root causes of complex health challenges. One of the few pediatricians worldwide to hold IFMCP certification, Dr. Kruppstadt is also an expert in PANS/PANDAS and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the state’s Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council, where she advises on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education for these conditions.
----
Website: https://get2theroot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get2theroot.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get2theroot.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get2theroot-co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW3cTdaOinactGlRUcSn0g
----
PODCAST
Thank you for listening.
Please subscribe and share.
This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com https://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt explains how functional medicine addresses root causes like infections, mold, and genetics to help children heal from PANS/PANDAS.
----
In part two of this PANS/PANDAS series, Dr. Paula Kruppstadt compares the conventional and functional medicine approaches to treatment. Dr. K explains how traditional care often relies on steroids, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatories, while functional medicine digs deeper—looking at mold exposure, nutrition, genetics, and environmental triggers. The discussion covers practical strategies like avoiding glutamate in supplements, supporting neurotransmitters with amino acids, genetic testing for immune and detox pathways, and the crucial role of diet in lowering inflammation. This episode highlights how combining conventional tools with root-cause functional care creates a more complete roadmap for healing.
Treatment for PANS and PANDAS often looks very different depending on the approach. In part two of this series, Dr. Paula Kruppstadt contrasts conventional medicine’s reliance on steroids, antibiotics, and psychiatric medications with the functional medicine approach of addressing root causes like mold, infections, and nutritional imbalances. She explains how lifestyle, genetics, and environment play a role in healing, and why creating the right foundation is just as important as using medications when necessary. This episode offers families a broader perspective on treatment and recovery.
----
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt, MD, IFMCP, is a board-certified pediatrician and Certified Practitioner of Functional Medicine through The Institute for Functional Medicine. As the founder of Hope for Healing, she has dedicated her career to helping children and adults uncover the root causes of complex health challenges. One of the few pediatricians worldwide to hold IFMCP certification, Dr. Kruppstadt is also an expert in PANS/PANDAS and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the state’s Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council, where she advises on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education for these conditions.
----
Website: https://get2theroot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get2theroot.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get2theroot.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get2theroot-co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW3cTdaOinactGlRUcSn0g
----
PODCAST
Thank you for listening.
Please subscribe and share.
This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com https://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt explains PANS and PANDAS, how infections and inflammation trigger sudden psychiatric symptoms, and what families can do next.
----
In this episode, Dr. Paula Kruppstadt unpacks the complex world of PANS and PANDAS—conditions that often begin with sudden, dramatic changes in a child’s behavior, emotions, or health. Dr. K shares both her expertise as a physician and her experience as a parent of children affected by these disorders. She explores what PANS and PANDAS are, how they differ, why these conditions are so frequently misdiagnosed, and the key symptoms parents should watch for.
This episode provides clarity on brain inflammation, the role of infections and environmental factors, and why early recognition is critical. While the conversation doesn’t shy away from the challenges, it also leaves listeners with encouragement and a foundation of understanding to build on in the episodes to come.
An abrupt overnight change in a child’s behavior can be frightening, but it may not be “just a phase.” In this first episode of the three-part PANS/PANDAS series, Dr. Paula Kruppstadt explains these often misunderstood conditions that can trigger sudden anxiety, OCD, food restriction, and mood swings. She clarifies the difference between PANS and PANDAS, why brain inflammation is at the root, and how these conditions are frequently misdiagnosed. Families will find validation, understanding, and hope as they begin to navigate this complex journey.
----
Dr. Paula Kruppstadt, MD, IFMCP, is a board-certified pediatrician and Certified Practitioner of Functional Medicine through The Institute for Functional Medicine. As the founder of Hope for Healing, she has dedicated her career to helping children and adults uncover the root causes of complex health challenges. One of the few pediatricians worldwide to hold IFMCP certification, Dr. Kruppstadt is also an expert in PANS/PANDAS and was appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the state’s Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council, where she advises on research, diagnosis, treatment, and education for these conditions.
----
Website: https://get2theroot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/get2theroot.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get2theroot.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/get2theroot-co
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFW3cTdaOinactGlRUcSn0g
----
PODCAST
Thank you for listening.
Please subscribe and share.
This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com https://drtalks.com/podcast-service/
#get2theroot with Hope for Healing is a health and wellness podcast that helps you uncover the hidden causes behind chronic symptoms and everyday health challenges. Hosted by experts who look beyond surface-level answers, this show explores functional medicine, genetics, nutrition, detox, and natural healing to help you understand what your body truly needs.
Each episode offers actionable insights—from interpreting blood work and identifying root causes to using practical tools for better energy, immunity, and long-term wellness. If you’re tired of managing symptoms and ready to heal from the inside out, this podcast will guide you toward real, sustainable health.
Follow #get2theroot with Hope for Healing Podcast on your favorite podcast platform and start your journey to deeper healing today.