2025 Annual Conference – Agenda

Continuing Education

• Approved for 6 CME for MD, DO, NP* [Day One]
• 10.75 General plus 3.25 Pharmacology CE approved by AANP for NDs
• 14 CE for chiropractors in select states
• 14 Category A CE (including 1.75 pharmacology) approved by CONO for Canadian NDs
• Recordings included with registration

David Brownstein, MD

Natural Hormones and How to Prescribe Them

This lecture will provide information on the clinical use of natural hormones.   The combined use of multiple hormones allows the prescriber to use smaller doses more effectively.  The goal of natural hormone use is to optimize the adrenal and sex hormone biochemical pathways. 

A Holistic Approach to Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders

Autoimmune thyroid illnesses (along with thyroid cancer and hypothyroidism) are some of the most common diagnoses seen in medicine today.  This lecture will provide the listener with an in-depth discussion on the mechanisms of why autoimmune thyroid disorders form.  Once the underlying mechanisms are understood, a proper treatment plan can be implemented.

Cheryl Burdette, ND

Nitric Oxide: An Under-Utilized Tool in Women's Health

Nitric oxide (NO) is a ubiquitous, pleiotropic signaling molecule that influences almost every biological system. As a potent vasodilator, it is a key regulator in vascular homeostasis by inhibiting platelet activation and vascular smooth muscle proliferation as well as controlling blood pressure. Physiological processes where NO plays a role include neural transmission, memory, apoptosis, reproduction, lipolysis, regulation of energy balance, and host defense. NO regulates hormone release in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and inhibits prolactin secretion. It may also play a role in adrenal catecholamine release and steroidogenesis as well as regulating actions of insulin and carbohydrate metabolism. NO also has a role in thyrocyte/thyroid function. It is possible that NO is an underrecognized component in hormone regulation and women’s health in general. This lecture will explore the evidence for NO as a clinical tool to improve cardiovascular and reproductive issues centered in women’s health, as well as distinctions between male and female risk of cardiovascular disease in the context of NO differences.

Redefining Menopause as a Condition of Inflammation and Oxidation: It’s Not the Hormone but Its Home

It is well understood that hormones interact with DNA to modulate metabolic and enzymatic pathways. Estrogen, for example, increases glutathione peroxidase activity and decreases the inflammatory activity of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). As we age, estrogen levels decline, which likely results in decreased production of glutathione and other antioxidants, with an associated increase in inflammation. By understanding both hormone testing and the hormonal milieu of our female patients as they age, we can monitor the physiologic significance of changes in estrogen, particularly with regard to oxidative stress. This allows us to widen and personalize the treatment options we provide throughout the menopausal and postmenopausal life stages.

Aimee Duffy, MD

In the Trenches: Practical Solutions for Neuroendocrine Imbalances

Stress-induced dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, in conjunction with other hormonal imbalances and dysbiosis are frequently found in association with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and other health issues that can affect women of menstruating age. This presentation will focus on the use of comprehensive testing, pharmaceuticals, and evidence-based nutraceuticals to address neuroendocrine imbalances that manifest in this population, as, for example, low libido, sleep disturbances, mood instability, gastrointestinal issues, and weight gain.

Fabulous Health Before 40: Addressing Fatigue, Mood Instability, Irregular Periods, and Gastrointestinal Issues

Female patients (20-40 years of age) can present with issues unique to their pre-menopausal status. In addition, women in their 30’s can present with health issues that sound a lot like menopause. Given that perimenopause can last an average of 5-10 years, that’s a lot of years of hormonal imbalance! Environmental influences, for example, xenoestrogens, and declining nutrition are, in part, responsible for this picture. This presentation will focus on the use of comprehensive testing, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals, to address hormonal and neuroendocrine imbalances in younger women, with the goal of eliciting balanced and vibrant health throughout their reproductive years.

Joshua Green, ND

Hormone Imbalance: The Role of Hidden Pathogens

This presentation is an overview of the role of hidden pathogens in hormone dysfunction, with particular relevance to mold toxin illness, Lyme disease, Babesiosis, and Bartonellosis. Case-based examples will be used to illustrate careful, safe, and efficient ways to eradicate hidden pathogens. In addition, we will briefly touch on the role of heavy metals in hormone imbalance.

LuLu Shimek, ND

Decoding Hormonal Chaos to Achieve Balance in Perimenopause and Beyond

Perimenopause is characterized by hormonal fluctuations that significantly impact both physical and emotional well-being. The perimenopausal transition often brings symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, weight gain, and cognitive changes, which can leave women feeling frustrated and disconnected from their bodies. As well as addressing these common symptoms, any treatment approach should lay the groundwork for healthy aging. This presentation will delve into the latest diagnostic testing and personalized treatment approaches that address both hormonal imbalances and mitochondrial dysfunction, which plays a critical role in cellular energy production, metabolism, and aging.  Attendees will learn to apply state-of-the-art interventions, including hormone replacement therapy, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications, to support hormonal balance, sleep, and stress management.

Rewiring Thyroid Health: Mitochondria, Metabolism, and Energy Optimization for Women

Mitochondrial function is critical for energy production and metabolic regulation. If thyroid function is compromised, the cascading effects can disrupt mitochondrial health, contributing to fatigue, weight gain, and poor metabolic outcomes. In this presentation, we will explore the intricate relationship between thyroid health and mitochondrial function, and how addressing both may help optimize energy levels, metabolism, and the potential for healthy aging in female patients.

CASE STUDY SESSIONS

Presented by Exhibitor Restorative Formulations

We’re bringing back one of our most popular programs from past conferences. Hear real-life cases and how they were resolved, providing tools you can use Monday morning. These sessions are non-CE because product names are mentioned.

Clinical Insights on Endocrine Disorders and Cardiovascular Health: Impacts on Metabolism, Blood Pressure, and Atherosclerosis

Michael Friedman ND and Jillian Stansbury ND

Dr. Friedman will explore the  physiological connections between thyroid metabolism, glucose metabolism and cardiac health. This class will highlight their effects on cholesterol levels, blood pressure regulation, and the development of atherosclerosis. Additionally, we will examine endocrine conditions that lead to low cortisol and aldosterone, resulting in fatigue and hypotension. Through a review of treatment strategies and real-world case studies, we will evaluate effective clinical approaches for managing these complex endocrine disorders.

Part two of this session, led by Dr. Stansbury, will explore the therapeutic applications of key medicinal herbs in endocrine health. We will discuss Fucus for supporting hypothyroidism, Gymnema sylvestre for blood sugar regulation, Blue Flag for overall thyroid health, and Licorice for adrenal support, focusing on its role in raising cortisol and aldosterone levels. Attendees will gain insights into the clinical use of these botanicals for optimizing endocrine function.

Environmental Triggers and Thyroid Dysfunction: Risks and Treatments

Michael Friedman ND and Jillian Stansbury ND

Dr. Friedman will delve into the interplay between hyperthyroidism, environmental factors, examining how toxins, and diet contribute to thyroid dysfunction. We will explore the physiological mechanisms through which environmental exposures impact thyroid hormone production, metabolism, and overall endocrine balance. Through a detailed review of clinical insights and case studies, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how to optimize thyroid health in the face of environmental challenges and specifically learn to manage and treat hyperthyroidism with the use of herbs and nutrients.

Part two of this session, led by Dr. Stansbury, will explore the use of medicinal herbs in managing hyperthyroid disorders. We will discuss the therapeutic potential of Rosmarinic acid found in many plants like Bugleweed in modulating immune function and its applications in hyperthyroidism disease management. We will also discuss rauwolfia to manage blood pressure and convallaria to manage tachycardia both commonly found in hyperthyroidism. Attendees will gain practical insights into the clinical use of these botanicals and nutrients such as carnitine and Iodine for treating hyperthyroidism.

Hormonal Harmony: Strategies for Perimenopause and PCOS

Jillian Stansbury, ND

As women approach perimenopause, they often experience a range of challenging symptoms, including irregular cycles, mood swings, hot flashes, fatigue, and hormonal imbalances. These changes can significantly impact quality of life, making hormone regulation essential for overall well-being.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) affects some 5 million women in the US alone and affects from 10 to 20% of the general female population. A research reviews shows that PCOS is associated with elevated androgens, prolactin and other hormonal imbalance. The primary symptoms include menstrual disorders, infertility, obesity, hirsutism, and in some cases hypothyroidism, insulin resistance, and associated complications.

This session will explore the importance of hormonal balance during perimenopause and PCOS, and discuss successful case studies. Dr. Stansbury will highlight the benefits of Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus) for supporting progesterone levels and cycle regulation, as well as Sage for reducing hot flashes and improving cognitive function. She will also review the role of Chaste Tree and Saw Palmetto in supporting endocrine imbalances in women with PCOS.

* The AAFP has reviewed 22nd Annual Restorative Medicine Conference: Clinical Trends in Endocrinology; Focus on Women's Health & Hormones and deemed it acceptable for up to 6.00 Live AAFP Prescribed credit(s). Term of Approval is from 05/01/2025 to 05/01/2025. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

AAFP Prescribed credit is accepted by the American Medical Association as equivalent to AMA PRA Category 1 credit(s)™ toward the AMA Physician's Recognition Award. When applying for the AMA PRA, Prescribed credit earned must be reported as Prescribed, not as Category 1.

Continuing Education: 10.75 General plus 3.25 Pharmacology CE approved by the AANP for US NDs except OR. Oregon Licensee: AARM will provide the necessary requirements for you to submit an individual application to the OBNM for this CE to be approved. 14 CE pending CONO approval for Canadian NDs. 14 CE for chiropractors in select states.