Frequently Asked Questions

Functional medicine represents a transformative, science-based approach to healthcare that offers hope for individuals struggling with complex, chronic conditions. At Caring for the Body, PLLC – Center for Functional Medicine, we practice a model of medicine rooted in the understanding that each person is biochemically unique.

Our team takes time to deeply listen to your story, investigate and address the root causes of imbalance, and design personalized treatment plans that integrate nutrition, lifestyle medicine, and appropriate therapeutic support.

👉 Watch a short video from the Institute for Functional Medicine to learn more.

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We recommend nutritional supplements when clinically indicated—as an adjunct to nutrition and lifestyle therapy. Our team partners only with companies that uphold the highest standards of third-party testing and quality control.

As a convenience to our patients, we offer access to a secure, online dispensary stocked with physician-vetted products. You’re always welcome to purchase supplements elsewhere, but we strongly encourage research and caution when shopping outside of professional-grade sources, as the supplement industry is not well regulated.

Lab costs vary depending on the complexity of your condition and your personalized care plan. Some foundational labs cost under $100, while more advanced testing panels may cost several hundred to a few thousand dollars in total.

We are always mindful of cost and will help you prioritize testing based on clinical relevance, available resources, and your goals. We can order tests in a stepwise fashion to help manage costs over time.

Functional medicine seeks to answer why illness occurs and addresses those root causes to restore health. Instead of simply matching symptoms to prescriptions, we take a systems-based approach—looking at how genetics, environment, nutrition, stress, sleep, movement, and spiritual well-being interact to influence health outcomes.

This method emphasizes partnership, education, and empowerment for long-term healing and vitality.

We do not contract with or bill insurance companies. However, if you are a non-Medicare patient, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement by submitting a superbill to your insurance provider. You may also be able to use funds from your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for out-of-pocket expenses.

Our team can provide you with superbills upon request, but we do not communicate directly with insurance companies. If administrative support is needed for insurance-related communication, an hourly fee may apply.

We support patients dealing with a wide variety of chronic, often complex conditions. Areas of clinical focus include:

• Cognitive decline prevention and early intervention
• Burnout and stress-related disorders
• Hormone imbalances (perimenopause, menopause, andropause)
• Gut and microbiome health
• Autoimmune diseases
• Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia
• Metabolic dysfunction and inflammation
• Brain fog, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders

We also work with high-functioning individuals who are motivated to optimize their healthspan, brain vitality, and longevity.

We are committed to delivering exceptional care and building strong therapeutic partnerships. Clinical services already rendered are non-refundable. However, if you are dissatisfied with your experience, we encourage you to let us know so we can address your concerns.

Unopened lab kits may be returned within 30 days of purchase for a refund, minus shipping and handling. Please contact our team to initiate any returns or changes.

In the event of a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 or go directly to your nearest emergency department.

Our practice is not equipped to provide emergency medical or psychiatric services. However, if you are hospitalized, we encourage a trusted friend or family member to notify our office so we can support continuity of care when possible.

Helpful Contacts:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• Mobile Crisis Hotline (Asheville & Surrounding Areas): 1-888-573-1006

Your follow-up schedule will be personalized to your needs. During the initial phase of care, visits may occur more frequently (e.g., monthly), and then transition to every 2–3 months or as needed for maintenance and continued progress. Your plan will be reviewed regularly and adapted based on your progress and preferences.

Absolutely. Healing often happens best in community. We welcome the involvement of trusted loved ones—with your consent—in care planning, education, and support. We also provide resources and tools to help family members understand and support your healing journey.

Dr. Libert and our team serve as integrative and functional medicine consultants. We do not function as primary care providers and require all patients to maintain an ongoing relationship with a primary care physician for routine screenings, emergency care, and urgent medical needs.

Our membership plans are designed to enhance your experience and provide consistent, high-touch support throughout your healing journey.

Depending on the level you choose, benefits may include:

• Direct messaging with your care team
• Prescription refills
• Lab coordination
• InBody Body Composition Analysis
• Monthly coaching sessions
• Access to educational programs and live office hours with Dr. Libert

For a full comparison of plans, please visit our Membership Options page or speak with our Patient Care Coordinator.

Yes, we offer secure telemedicine appointments for patients residing in states where our providers are licensed to practice. Virtual visits allow us to support patients beyond the Asheville area while maintaining the same level of personalized care.

If our philosophy of care resonates with you, we invite you to schedule a complimentary strategy session with our Patient Care Coordinator. This brief call gives you the opportunity to share your story, ask questions, and determine whether our services are the right fit for your needs. We’d be honored to walk with you toward vibrant health, clarity of mind, and greater joy.

While many of our patients experience remarkable improvements, we cannot guarantee specific results. Healing is a dynamic, individualized process that depends on many factors—including your level of commitment, consistency, and willingness to make sustainable lifestyle changes.

We promise to bring our full presence, clinical expertise, and compassion to every encounter and walk beside you with wisdom and care as you move toward your goals.

Brain fog is that frustrating feeling when your thinking feels cloudy, your memory feels sluggish, and it’s hard to focus or find the right words. It’s not a formal diagnosis, but it’s something many of us have felt—especially under stress, hormonal shifts, or after poor sleep or nutrition.

From a functional medicine perspective, brain fog is often a sign that something deeper is going on. It could be inflammation, gut imbalances, hormone fluctuations, or exposure to environmental toxins. That’s where detoxification comes in—not as a fad or extreme cleanse, but as a gentle, strategic way to support your body’s natural ability to “take out the trash.”

By identifying and reducing physical, emotional, and even digital toxins, you give your brain the chance to breathe again—literally. Simple changes like optimizing your liver and gut function, improving indoor air quality, and taking breaks from information overload can dramatically boost mental clarity.

As Dr. Libert often says, “Prioritize your well-being with a complete detox: renew your mind, declutter your emotions, nourish your body, feed your spirit, and harmonize your surroundings.”​

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Aging gracefully isn’t about chasing youth—it’s about preserving vitality, independence, and joy as you grow older. Functional medicine embraces this by focusing on healthspan, not just lifespan. It means feeling strong, clear-minded, and purposeful at every age.

At Caring for the Body, we use a personalized, proactive approach to aging. That includes optimizing brain health, balancing hormones, reducing inflammation, and supporting mitochondrial energy production. We look at your unique genetics, lifestyle, and environment to create a plan that works for you, not a one-size-fits-all protocol.

Our Rethink Aging program is built on this idea—combining precision medicine with compassionate care to help you feel energized, focused, and empowered as you age​. Aging gracefully isn’t a hope—it’s a plan.

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The gut-brain axis is the fascinating, two-way communication network between your digestive system and your brain. It’s like your brain and your belly are in constant conversation—sending chemical and electrical signals back and forth through nerves, hormones, and even gut bacteria.

Why does this matter for mental health? Because about 90% of your serotonin (the feel-good neurotransmitter) is actually produced in your gut! So if your gut is inflamed or imbalanced—say from poor diet, stress, or antibiotics—your mood, focus, and even sleep can suffer.

Supporting gut health with proper nutrition, probiotics, and stress reduction is a core part of functional medicine—and a key pillar in our care at Caring for the Body. When we help your gut thrive, we often see improvements in anxiety, depression, and brain fog too. As we like to say, “heal the gut, heal the brain.”

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Absolutely. Chronic fatigue is one of the most common reasons people seek functional medicine—and it’s usually a sign that something deeper needs attention. Rather than slapping a band-aid on the symptom, we look at the root causes: things like nutrient deficiencies, blood sugar imbalances, mitochondrial dysfunction, sleep issues, or even hidden infections and toxic exposures.

Through our signature Rethink Aging program, we work on boosting energy from the cellular level up. That means supporting your mitochondria (the little engines inside your cells), fine-tuning your diet and supplements, and restoring a healthy rhythm in your day-to-day life.

Dr. Libert puts it beautifully: “Energize your life at the cellular level. Safeguard your mitochondria by minimizing toxins, nourishing your body, embracing exercise, and fortifying with essential nutrients. It’s the recipe for boundless energy.”​

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Your brain is incredibly resilient—and it can absolutely stay sharp and vibrant well into your later years. But it needs the right support. After 50, the most impactful lifestyle changes for brain health include:

• Prioritizing sleep: Deep, restorative sleep is when your brain clears out toxins and consolidates memory.
• Eating an anti-inflammatory diet: Think colorful veggies, healthy fats (like omega-3s), and avoiding sugar and processed foods.
• Moving your body regularly: Exercise increases blood flow and stimulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which helps grow new brain cells.
• Challenging your mind: Learning new skills, reading, and socializing all build “cognitive reserve.”
• Reducing toxin exposure: From air quality to household cleaners to emotional stress—clearing out the junk helps your brain shine.

And don’t forget purpose and joy. Staying connected to what brings you meaning—whether it’s faith, community, or creativity—is one of the most underrated secrets to a flourishing mind.

As Dr. Libert reminds us, “Embrace the ageless mindset, where your thoughts sculpt your health, fuel your vitality, and rewrite the story of aging to one of boundless possibilities.”​

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ADD/ADHD, now more commonly referred to as ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These symptoms can manifest differently in children and adults.

• In Children:
  
  • Symptoms of inattention may include difficulty sustaining focus, being easily distracted, forgetfulness, and making careless mistakes in schoolwork.
  • Hyperactivity often presents as excessive fidgeting, running or climbing inappropriately, difficulty sitting still, and nonstop talking.
  • Impulsivity can appear as interrupting others, difficulty waiting their turn, or acting without thinking of the consequences.
• In Adults:
  
  • Inattention may manifest as procrastination, difficulty prioritizing tasks, forgetfulness, or frequently misplacing items.
  • Hyperactivity often appears less physically and more as feelings of restlessness or difficulty relaxing.
  • Impulsivity might show up as poor emotional regulation, interrupting others during conversations, or impulsive spending or decision-making.

It’s also worth noting that symptoms can vary significantly in intensity and presentation between individuals. Some people with ADHD predominantly exhibit inattentive symptoms (formerly known as ADD), while others may have predominantly hyperactive-impulsive symptoms or a combination of both.

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Diagnosing ADHD involves a comprehensive process that evaluates an individual’s behaviors, history, and current functioning. There is no single test for ADHD, but the following steps are commonly part of the process:

1. Clinical Interview: A healthcare professional (such as a pediatrician, psychologist, or psychiatrist) will gather a detailed history, including academic, work, and social functioning, as well as early childhood behavior.
2. Behavioral Questionnaires: Standardized forms like the Conners Comprehensive Behavior Rating Scale or the Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Rating Scale may be used to collect information from parents, teachers, or the individual.
3. Observation: In some cases, professionals may observe the child or adult in different settings to assess behaviors directly.
4. Rule Out Other Causes: Conditions such as anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, or even medical issues like sleep disorders or thyroid dysfunction can mimic ADHD symptoms, so these need to be evaluated and ruled out.
5. Neuropsychological Testing (if needed): This can include assessments of attention span, memory, and executive functioning to better understand the individual’s cognitive profile.

Diagnosis is based on criteria outlined in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition), which requires that symptoms have been present for at least six months, started before age 12, and significantly impact daily functioning.

Treatment for ADHD often involves a multimodal approach, tailored to the individual’s needs. Here’s an overview:

• Medications:
  
  • Stimulant medications like methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) or amphetamines (Adderall, Vyvanse) are the most common and effective treatments. They work by enhancing the activity of brain chemicals involved in focus and self-regulation.
  • Non-stimulant medications, such as atomoxetine (Strattera) or guanfacine (Intuniv), may be used if stimulants are ineffective or cause side effects.
• Behavioral Therapy:
  
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help individuals develop coping strategies for managing distractions, improving time management, and building organizational skills.
  • Parent training programs are beneficial for children, equipping caregivers with techniques to manage behaviors effectively.
• Lifestyle Interventions:
  
  • Regular exercise helps improve focus, mood, and sleep—common areas of difficulty in ADHD.
  • A structured daily routine, with consistent sleep and meal schedules, can reduce overwhelm.
  • Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables may support brain health.
• School or Workplace Accommodations:
  
  • For children, this may include an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan to provide extra time for assignments or tests, seating arrangements to minimize distractions, and regular breaks.
  • Adults may benefit from productivity tools, noise-canceling headphones, or flexible work arrangements.

Combining therapies often yields the best results, as medication helps manage symptoms, while therapy and lifestyle changes address underlying skills and habits.

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Yes, symptoms of ADHD can change over time, and some people experience improvement as they age. However, this varies:

• In Children: Hyperactive-impulsive symptoms often decrease as children grow older and develop better self-regulation skills. However, inattentive symptoms may persist or become more noticeable in academic settings.
• In Adults: Many adults develop compensatory strategies to manage their symptoms, such as using planners, alarms, or delegating tasks. While hyperactivity may diminish, challenges with focus, organization, and time management often persist.

Neurological Perspective: The brain continues to mature into a person’s mid-20s, which may naturally help reduce some ADHD-related difficulties. However, for others, symptoms remain a lifelong challenge and require ongoing management.

Yes, many natural and non-pharmaceutical strategies can complement or, in some cases, replace medication:

• Dietary Changes:
  
  • A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) may support brain function.
  • Avoiding processed foods, artificial additives, and excessive sugar can help stabilize energy levels and reduce hyperactivity.
• Supplements:
  
  • Magnesium, zinc, iron, and vitamin D deficiencies have been linked to ADHD. Addressing these deficiencies with supplements or dietary adjustments may help.
• Behavioral Strategies:
  
  • Mindfulness meditation and relaxation techniques can improve focus and emotional regulation.
  • Consistent routines and visual schedules can help individuals manage time and tasks effectively.
• Exercise:
  
  • Physical activity, especially aerobic exercise, boosts dopamine levels, which helps improve focus and mood.
• Sleep Hygiene:
  
  • Prioritizing sleep is essential, as ADHD symptoms often worsen with fatigue. Strategies like maintaining a regular bedtime and reducing screen time before bed can help.
• Therapies:
  
  • Neurofeedback, a type of brainwave training, has shown promise in helping some individuals improve focus and self-regulation.

While these approaches may not fully replace medication for everyone, they can significantly enhance overall well-being and help manage ADHD symptoms more holistically.

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Anxiety and depression are distinct mental health conditions, but they often overlap, and many people experience both simultaneously (a condition known as comorbid anxiety and depression).

• Anxiety: This condition is characterized by excessive worry, fear, or nervousness. It often involves a heightened state of alertness or "fight or flight" response. Symptoms can include restlessness, difficulty concentrating, physical symptoms like a racing heart or sweating, and an overwhelming sense of dread about future events.
• Depression: Depression, on the other hand, is more associated with persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities. It often includes fatigue, changes in sleep and appetite, difficulty concentrating, and sometimes physical aches or pains without a clear cause.
• Can they coexist? Yes, absolutely. Many people with depression experience anxiety symptoms, and vice versa. For example, someone might feel anxious about their inability to perform daily tasks because of depression, or they might feel hopeless about managing their anxiety long-term. The coexistence of both conditions can complicate diagnosis and treatment, but it is common and manageable with the right approach.

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Common Symptoms of Anxiety:

• Excessive worry or fear that is hard to control.
• Restlessness or feeling "on edge."
• Fatigue or low energy.
• Difficulty concentrating or a sense that your mind is blank.
• Sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep.
• Physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or muscle tension.

Common Symptoms of Depression:

• Persistent sadness or low mood.
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed.
• Changes in appetite (eating more or less than usual) and weight changes.
• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) or oversleeping (hypersomnia).
• Low energy or fatigue, even after restful sleep.
• Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or self-blame.
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
• Thoughts of death or suicide.

When to Seek Professional Help: If these symptoms persist for two weeks or more, significantly impact your daily life, or lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it’s crucial to seek help. Talking to a therapist, psychiatrist, or primary care provider can help clarify your symptoms and provide effective support. Even if symptoms feel "mild," addressing them early can prevent them from worsening.

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Anxiety and depression arise from a complex interplay of factors, including:

• Genetics: A family history of anxiety or depression can increase your risk. Research shows that certain genetic variations affect brain chemistry and stress response, making some people more vulnerable.
• Brain Chemistry and Biology: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine play a significant role in both conditions. Overactivity in certain brain regions (like the amygdala for anxiety) or underactivity in others (like the prefrontal cortex in depression) can also contribute.
• Environment and Life Events: Stressful or traumatic events, such as abuse, loss, or major life changes, can trigger anxiety or depression. Chronic stress or exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can also increase risk.
• Personality Traits: Certain traits, like perfectionism or a tendency to ruminate, can predispose someone to anxiety or depression.
• Medical Conditions: Chronic illnesses, hormonal imbalances (like thyroid issues), and nutritional deficiencies can contribute.
• Lifestyle Factors: Poor sleep, lack of physical activity, and substance use can worsen symptoms or increase susceptibility.

The exact cause varies between individuals, and often, a combination of these factors contributes. Understanding your unique risk factors can help guide effective treatment.

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Treatment often involves a combination of approaches tailored to the individual. Here’s an overview:

• Therapy:
  
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Highly effective for both anxiety and depression, CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.
  • Mindfulness-Based Therapies: Techniques like mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) or acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) can help individuals manage symptoms.
  • Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving communication and relationships, often used for depression.
• Medications:
  
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft), are commonly prescribed for both anxiety and depression.
  • Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): Such as venlafaxine (Effexor), can address both conditions.
  • Anxiolytics: Benzodiazepines or buspirone may be used for short-term anxiety relief, but they are not first-line treatments.
  • Always discuss potential side effects and benefits with a healthcare provider.
• Lifestyle Changes:
  
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity improves mood and reduces anxiety by boosting endorphins and promoting neurogenesis.
  • Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in omega-3s, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables supports brain health.
  • Sleep Hygiene: Prioritizing regular, restful sleep can significantly reduce symptoms.
• Complementary Therapies:
  
  • Yoga, meditation, acupuncture, and biofeedback can complement conventional treatments.

The most effective treatment plan often combines therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments. It's important to work with a provider to create a plan that fits your needs and preferences.

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Yes, many self-help strategies and natural remedies can complement professional treatment or help with mild symptoms:

• Stress Management Techniques:
  
  • Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery can help manage anxiety.
  • Journaling can be a therapeutic way to process thoughts and emotions.
• Dietary Supplements:
  
  • Omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and vitamin D have been linked to improved mental health.
  • Herbal remedies like St. John’s Wort (for mild depression) or chamomile (for anxiety) may be beneficial, but consult a healthcare provider first.
• Physical Activity:
  
  • Aerobic exercises like running, swimming, or dancing can reduce anxiety and boost mood.
  • Yoga combines physical movement with mindfulness, helping both body and mind.
• Social Support:
  
  • Connecting with friends, family, or support groups can reduce feelings of isolation and provide encouragement.
• Mindfulness and Meditation:
  
  • Practicing mindfulness can help reduce overthinking and improve emotional regulation.
• Nature and Time Outdoors:
  
  • Spending time in natural settings, like parks or forests, can reduce stress and improve mood.

While these strategies are effective, they are not a substitute for professional care if symptoms are moderate to severe. Self-help approaches work best when integrated into a broader treatment plan.

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This is such an important question—especially in today’s world where many people are silently struggling with anxiety.

The short answer? No, anxiety is not always “just in your head.” While our thoughts and emotional patterns do play a role, anxiety is often a symptom of deeper imbalances in the body. At Caring for the Body, PLLC, we view anxiety through a whole-person lens—recognizing that everything from hormone shifts and gut health to nutrient deficiencies, chronic inflammation, blood sugar instability, and even hidden infections can contribute to anxious feelings.

For example, imbalances in the gut microbiome can affect serotonin production, since over 90% of this “feel-good” neurotransmitter is made in the gut. Similarly, adrenal dysfunction (linked to chronic stress) and thyroid disorders like Hashimoto’s can also fuel anxiety.

So rather than dismissing anxiety or merely suppressing symptoms with medication, functional medicine invites us to ask why the anxiety is happening. What’s beneath the surface?

We help patients get to the root causes—whether they’re physical, emotional, spiritual, or all of the above—and build a personalized plan to support true healing.

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Hormones are like the body’s internal communication system—tiny messengers that have huge effects on how we think, feel, and function day to day.

When hormones are in balance, we feel energized, focused, and emotionally stable. But when they shift—as they often do in midlife—it can feel like the wheels are falling off.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Estrogen plays a key role in brain function and mood regulation. As levels decline during perimenopause and menopause, many women experience memory lapses, brain fog, anxiety, and sleep issues.
• Progesterone is naturally calming. A drop in this hormone can lead to insomnia and mood swings.
• Cortisol, your primary stress hormone, can become dysregulated from chronic stress, leading to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
• Thyroid hormones are essential for energy and metabolism. Even mild hypothyroidism can cause fatigue and cognitive sluggishness.

At Caring for the Body, we use comprehensive hormone testing (like the DUTCH test) to get a full picture of what’s happening in your body. Then we create a personalized plan—which may include bioidentical hormone support, targeted supplements, stress resilience tools, and lifestyle strategies—to help you feel like yourself again.

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Yes—absolutely.

While conventional medicine tends to focus on managing autoimmune disease with medication, functional medicine goes deeper. We ask, “What is triggering the immune system to attack the body in the first place?” That’s where healing begins.

Autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or lupus often have multiple root causes, including:

• Leaky gut (intestinal permeability)
• Food sensitivities
• Chronic infections (like EBV or tick-borne illness)
• Environmental toxin exposure
• Hormonal imbalances
• Chronic stress

At Caring for the Body, our approach involves comprehensive lab testing, including gut health, immune function, genetics, and more. From there, we create a plan to:

• Remove triggers
• Restore gut health
• Support immune balance
• Optimize nutrient levels
• Build stress resilience

Autoimmunity doesn’t have to be a life sentence. Many patients experience remarkable improvements in energy, symptoms, and quality of life when we shift the focus from disease suppression to root-cause resolution.

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Great question—and one that often confuses people.

A food allergy is an immediate immune response. It typically involves the IgE antibody, and symptoms can range from hives and swelling to anaphylaxis. These reactions are usually obvious and occur within minutes to hours of eating the offending food.

In contrast, a food sensitivity is more subtle and delayed. It involves the IgG (and sometimes IgA) antibodies and can take hours—or even days—to show up. The symptoms can be harder to connect to a specific food and may include:

• Brain fog
• Fatigue
• Joint pain
• Bloating or gas
• Headaches
• Mood changes

Food sensitivities are often a sign of gut barrier dysfunction (leaky gut), which allows partially digested food proteins to slip into the bloodstream and trigger the immune system.

We use advanced testing from trusted labs (like Vibrant Wellness or Genova Diagnostics) to identify hidden sensitivities and help you heal your gut, reduce inflammation, and feel better.

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Think of the Free Strategy Session as a pressure-free, 20-minute discovery call to explore whether we’re a good fit for working together.

During this session, you’ll:

• Share a bit about your health journey and current challenges
• Learn about our functional medicine approach and how it’s different from conventional care
• Receive guidance on potential next steps—including diagnostic testing, program options, or coaching resources
• Have the opportunity to ask questions

It’s not a medical consult, but it is a personalized conversation with someone on our team who truly listens. Our goal is to help you feel seen and supported—and to empower you with clear, compassionate guidance on your next step toward healing.

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Think of inflammation as your body’s built-in defense system. When it’s functioning properly, it helps you heal from injury or infection. But when inflammation becomes chronic, it shifts from being helpful to harmful. It’s like a fire that was meant to warm the house—but instead burns it down slowly.

Chronic inflammation is now understood to be a root cause of many modern diseases, including:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Autoimmune conditions
• Digestive disorders (like IBS and IBD)
• Even some cancers

At Caring for the Body, we often say that inflammation is like smoke that signals there’s a deeper fire. Our goal in functional medicine is to find out what’s fueling that fire—whether it’s poor nutrition, chronic stress, environmental toxins, infections, or imbalances in the gut—and address it at the root level.

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This is one of our favorite topics—and the short answer is: brain decline is not inevitable.

Sure, some changes in cognitive speed can happen with age. But cognitive decline—meaning memory loss, confusion, and functional impairment—is often a sign that something deeper is going on.

In fact, we now know that many of the risk factors for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are modifiable. Things like:

• Blood sugar imbalance
• Inflammation
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Poor sleep
• Chronic stress
• Gut dysfunction
• Toxin exposure

Through the Re-Think Aging™ Program, Dr. Libert and our team help patients identify and reverse these risk factors—before significant damage is done. We use neurocognitive testing, advanced lab work, and personalized treatment plans to improve brain function and optimize your healthspan—how long you live with vitality and clarity.

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This is an important distinction!

• Cognitive decline refers to mild decreases in memory, attention, or mental sharpness. You may forget names more often, misplace things, or feel more mentally foggy. It’s often a warning sign—a yellow light, telling us to slow down and investigate what’s going on beneath the surface.
• Dementia, on the other hand, is a clinical diagnosis. It involves significant impairment in multiple areas of cognitive function—like memory, language, judgment, and daily functioning—and it interferes with a person’s ability to live independently.

Here’s the hopeful part: if we catch cognitive decline early, we can often reverse or slow it down significantly. That’s exactly what we aim to do in our clinic using tools like:

• The Brain + Body Vitality Blueprint
• Functional medicine labs
• Targeted nutrition
• Lifestyle interventions
• Neuroplasticity exercises (yes, you can train your brain to regrow!)

Early detection makes all the difference.

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This one trips a lot of people up, and understandably so—they sound similar, but they’re very different conditions.

IBS – Irritable Bowel Syndrome:

• A functional disorder, meaning symptoms are real but don’t show up on colonoscopies or biopsies.
• Symptoms include gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
• Often tied to stress, gut-brain axis imbalances, food sensitivities, or SIBO/SIFO (small intestinal overgrowth).

At Caring for the Body, we often treat IBS by addressing gut dysbiosis (imbalanced gut bacteria), calming the nervous system, and using personalized nutrition.

IBD – Inflammatory Bowel Disease:

• Includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
• An autoimmune condition—where the immune system attacks parts of the digestive tract.
• Involves visible inflammation, ulcers, and tissue damage, confirmed through endoscopy or imaging.
• Symptoms can be more severe: bloody stools, weight loss, and malnutrition.

IBD often requires a more intensive approach—combining gut healing protocols, anti-inflammatory therapies, and sometimes working alongside gastroenterologists if medication is needed. We help patients reduce flare-ups and address the root causes of immune dysfunction.

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The InBody Scan is one of our favorite tools to track progress—and no, it’s not just about your weight!

This advanced body composition analysis measures:

• Body fat percentage
• Skeletal muscle mass
• Visceral fat (the dangerous fat around your organs)
• Hydration levels
• Basal metabolic rate (BMR) – how many calories you burn at rest

Unlike a basic scale, the InBody uses bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to get a much clearer picture of what’s really going on inside your body.

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Yes, absolutely! Supporting women through the many hormonal transitions of life is one of the areas we’re most passionate about at Caring for the Body, PLLC.

We begin by listening closely to your story and running advanced hormone testing (often through specialty labs such as Precision Analytical’s DUTCH Test or ZRT Laboratories) to understand your unique hormone patterns. From there, we build a personalized plan that may include:

• Lifestyle medicine — sleep optimization, stress resilience, joyful movement, and nutrition tailored to support hormone balance.
• Targeted nutritional and botanical therapies to support healthy estrogen metabolism, thyroid function, and adrenal health.
• Bioidentical hormone therapy when appropriate, using safe, individualized doses to relieve symptoms and support long-term vitality.
• Mind-body and faith-based care, because emotional and spiritual well-being are powerful regulators of the hormonal system.

If you’re curious where to start, we offer a Free Strategy Session to discuss your goals and help determine the best next steps. You can reach us at (828) 490-1545 or visit caringforthebody.org to learn more.

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PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) are two very different conditions, even though both can affect hormones, mood, and energy. Understanding the difference is essential, because the root causes—and therefore the treatment strategies—are not the same.

PCOS is a metabolic and hormonal condition that affects how the ovaries function. Women with PCOS often experience irregular periods, excess androgens (such as testosterone), weight changes, insulin resistance, acne, and difficulties with fertility. PCOS is more of a chronic metabolic condition that requires a long-term strategy to rebalance hormones, support insulin sensitivity, and decrease inflammation.

PMS, on the other hand, is cyclical. It typically shows up in the week or so before your period and often includes mood changes, breast tenderness, cravings, bloating, irritability, or fatigue. PMS is usually driven by an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone—often too much estrogen relative to progesterone—and can be greatly influenced by stress, sleep changes, nutrient deficiencies, and inflammation.

Why does this distinction matter? Because if you treat PMS like PCOS—or vice versa—you won’t get the relief you're looking for. In functional medicine, we work to understand your unique hormonal landscape. That may include cycle mapping, thyroid and adrenal testing, metabolic assessment, and a close look at stress, sleep, gut health, and environmental triggers. With the right personalized plan, both PMS and PCOS can dramatically improve.

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We live in a world where mold toxins, heavy metals, plastics, pesticides, and chemical exposures are unfortunately common. The human body is wonderfully designed to detoxify, but modern exposures can overwhelm these natural pathways.

Environmental toxins can disrupt the body in several key ways:

• Hormones: Many chemicals—including BPA, phthalates, and certain pesticides—act as endocrine disruptors. They mimic or block hormones, interfere with thyroid function, or alter estrogen levels. This can contribute to PMS/PMDD, PCOS, infertility, fatigue, and weight gain.
• Brain: Mold toxins, heavy metals like mercury or lead, and air pollutants can impair mitochondrial function, reduce oxygen delivery, and inflame the brain. This often shows up as brain fog, memory changes, anxiety, headaches, or difficulty concentrating.
• Immune System: Chronic toxin exposure can push the immune system into overdrive or exhaustion. People may experience autoimmune symptoms, chronic inflammation, unexplained fatigue, or increased sensitivity to foods or chemicals.

The good news is that we can test for many of these exposures using specialty labs we work with—including Vibrant Wellness, Mosaic, Quicksilver Scientific, and others. Once we identify the root causes, we create a personalized detoxification plan that may include nutrition, supplementation, sauna therapy, gut support, and lifestyle strategies to help your body safely release and eliminate toxins.

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Yes. Tick-borne illness is an area where a functional medicine approach can be especially powerful.

Many people continue to struggle with symptoms long after an initial tick bite—fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, dizziness, mood changes, or neuropathy—yet their standard tests come back “normal.” This is where we dig deeper. Our practice works with advanced labs such as IGeneX, Vibrant Wellness, and others to identify persistent infections and co-infections that are often overlooked.

But lasting recovery requires more than identifying the microbe. We also address:

• Immune system dysfunction
• Mitochondrial damage
• Chronic inflammation
• Environmental toxins (like mold) that worsen symptoms
• Gut imbalances
• Hormonal disruption
• Sleep, stress, and nervous system dysregulation

At Caring for the Body, we take an evidence-informed, whole-person approach—supporting not only antimicrobial therapy, but also detoxification, nutrition, and lifestyle strategies that help the body heal. You don’t have to live with persistent symptoms; recovery is possible with a truly comprehensive plan.

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If you’ve ever tried “eat less and move more” and felt frustrated, you’re not alone. In functional medicine, we know weight regulation is far more complex than calories in vs. calories out.

Your metabolism is influenced by multiple interconnected systems:

• Thyroid Health: Even subtle thyroid dysfunction can slow metabolism.
• Blood Sugar Balance: Insulin resistance, high cortisol, and inflammation can lock the body into fat-storage mode.
• Sleep: Poor sleep alters hunger hormones like leptin and ghrelin.
• Stress: Chronic stress elevates cortisol, increases cravings, and stores fat—especially around the midsection.
• Hormones: Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA shifts (especially in midlife) directly affect weight, energy, and muscle mass.
• Gut Health: An imbalanced microbiome can affect inflammation, cravings, and nutrient absorption.
• Toxins: Certain chemicals act as “obesogens,” changing the way the body stores fat.

This is why our weight loss coaching goes deeper. Instead of chasing quick fixes, we uncover the root causes that are slowing your metabolism. Then we create a personalized plan that supports your thyroid, hormones, gut, blood sugar, sleep, and stress resilience—so your body is finally able to release weight naturally and sustainably.

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Yes—we offer 1:1 health coaching as a core part of our care model, because sustainable health change requires more than information… it requires support.

Our health coaches help you:

• Turn your personalized functional medicine plan into daily habits
• Build skills around nutrition, stress resilience, movement, sleep, and detoxification
• Create accountability, clarity, and structure
• Explore the emotional patterns or mindset blocks that may be holding you back
• Stay motivated during lifestyle change
• Celebrate wins and troubleshoot challenges

This coaching is beautifully integrated into our programs, including our Re-Think Aging Functional Medicine Program, where coaching works hand-in-hand with medical care to create transformation from the inside out.

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The holidays can be beautiful—but they can also place a heavy load on your nervous system. Extra commitments, family dynamics, rich foods, disrupted routines, grief, or loneliness can all make this season more stressful than it looks from the outside.

Here are some gentle, grace-filled reminders I often share with my patients:

Protect your nervous system with rest and rhythm.
Your body thrives on predictable routines. Prioritize sleep, nourishing meals, nature time, and a few minutes of quiet each morning before the rush begins.

Create emotional margin.
You don’t have to say yes to everything. Build breathing room into your calendar so you can show up with joy rather than exhaustion.

Stay connected to your spiritual practices.
Scripture reading, prayer, worship, or simply sitting with God in stillness calms the mind and reminds us of what truly matters. Spiritual grounding supports not only emotional resilience but physical health as well.

Nourish your body to support your mood.
Balanced blood sugar, hydration, limiting alcohol, and magnesium-rich foods can make a profound difference in your stress response.

Be gentle with yourself.
This is not a season for perfection—this is a season for presence. Small, consistent practices can protect your peace and keep you centered during a busy time.

Cognitive decline refers to changes in memory, focus, word recall, or processing speed that fall outside normal aging. It often begins subtly—sometimes years before a diagnosis. The earlier we identify risk factors, the more effective our prevention strategies can be.

Early signs may include:

• Difficulty recalling names or words
• Repeating questions
• Trouble multitasking or organizing
• Misplacing items more frequently
• Feeling mentally “slower” than usual
• Increased anxiety or mood changes

While genetics (including APOE4) and family history matter, lifestyle is one of the most powerful determinants of brain health. Cognitive decline is strongly influenced by inflammation, blood sugar imbalance, sleep disruption, hormonal changes, gut health, stress, cardiovascular health, environmental toxins, nutrient deficiencies, and more.

Absolutely. Just as women experience menopause, men experience age-related hormonal shifts known as andropause.

Common symptoms of low or imbalanced male hormones include:

• Fatigue
• Loss of muscle mass
• Increased abdominal fat
• Irritability or low mood
• Decline in libido or erectile function
• Poor sleep
• Slower recovery after exercise

In functional medicine, we look beyond testosterone alone. We assess thyroid health, stress hormones, metabolic markers, nutrient status, inflammation, cardiovascular health, and toxin exposures—because all of these influence how hormones are produced, converted, and utilized.

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For me, this integration is natural and deeply meaningful. As a physician, I am committed to delivering the most advanced, evidence-based functional medicine care. As a woman of faith, I also see the body as a sacred gift—something we are called to steward with wisdom and compassion.

Scripture offers timeless guidance on rest, nourishment, emotional health, relationships, and purpose—principles that beautifully complement the scientific foundations of lifestyle and precision medicine.

This blend reflects the core values of Caring for the Body: compassion, integrity, empowerment, and faith-inspired service .

Science tells us how the body works. Scripture reminds us why caring for it matters.

‍If you want full medical care:

You can begin with a 2-hour Initial Longevity Consultation with Dr. Libert, where we review your history, goals, and symptoms and design your personalized Brain + Body Vitality Blueprint. After your specialty labs return, you’ll meet again for a 60–90 minute Review of Findings visit.
This is the starting point for ongoing medical care through our practice and for those entering our 3-month Re-Think Aging Functional Medicine Program.

If you want a structured, transformative lifestyle program:

The Re-Think Aging 3-Month Program offers physician-led education, health coaching, advanced diagnostics, and a comprehensive plan for preventing chronic disease and optimizing healthspan.

If you want community and ongoing education:

The Re-Think Aging Membership provides monthly masterclasses, Q&A sessions, and annual biological age testing—ideal for those seeking a supportive, faith-infused longevity community.

If you prefer long-term continuity of medical care:

The Caring for the Body Membership gives you ongoing access to our functional medicine team, follow-up visits, and continued support as you implement your treatment plan.

You can explore all options at caringforthebody.org or contact our office at 828-490-1545 or help@caringforthebody.org. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.