HouseCall: HLA-DR Genes, Ocular Pressure, Worn Out Body, Bunions (Hallux Valgus), Deciding on Holistic Practitioners

Thank you for joining us for our 2nd Cabral HouseCall of the weekend!

I’m looking forward to sharing with you some of our community’s questions that have come in over the past few weeks…

Let’s get started!

Anonymous: Hi Doc, First thing I’d like to do is thank you. Great podcast, you’re helping a lot of people with all the information shared. Keep it up. I have a mold question in regards to genetics; The most popular mold physician says testing for specific HLA-DR genes is necessary to determine if the body is creating the antibodies to go after the molds in the body. I have what he calls the “dreaded gene” that is found in only 1% of the population, meaning multiple sucestibility to mold/lyme/etc as my body apparently doesn’t create the antibodies against them. On top of this, I have a MTHFR mutation. So my question is wether this HLA-DR gene testing matters or not? Do the MTHFR/HLA-DR genetic tests all mean the same thing? There is much debate as to the credibility behind this theory so I was hoping to hear your thoughts on it. Thanks!

Jenett: Hi Dr. Cabral, My friend was diagnosed with ocular pressure due to an imbalance of eye fluid production. He as told it can lead to glaucoma and blindness. Is there a way to balance this naturally? Thank you! Jenett

Marissa: Dr. Cabral, I really appreciate you and all your time spent on sharing your years of reading and knowledge with our community. I found you by my research on Ayurveda and since finding you have listened to almost every podcast you have done. I feel like I have gotten my own “certification” in wellness by having all of this information you have shared. Thank you!! You have helped me, my friends, and my family live better. I have done a DCD, CBO protocol/finisher, heavy metal detox and use your shake, adrenal soothe, CBD, and other products daily. I am a 40-year-old vata body type and enjoy the gym. I like going in the morning (5am) and usually do it fasted. I don’t want any food, but some days I have a ½ banana for being vata (per your recommendation.) I have noticed over the years that I cannot do cardio to almost any degree without my muscles getting tight after and I used to get sleepy post the workout (approx. 2-3 hours.) I tried electrolytes during the gym, but it doesn’t help. My HTMA markers are normal. I enjoy being active, but have learned to not push it for the past 2 years, thinking that my body is too stressed. I now stick to mainly body weight exercises and no cardio, but I like getting better oxygenation with some increase in heart rate. Also, my morning temperature does not get over 97.6 degrees most days, only on the 2nd half of my cycle. My most recent Dutch hormone test showed my rising morning cortisol had been slightly low and my morning cortisol slightly high, with normal ranges the rest of the day. I test my HRV with my Oura ring and struggle to get that over the 40’s. My TSH in the past was between 5-9 and now is lowered to 2-3 with the help of Armour Thyroid at its lowest dosage. Why can’t my temperature, HRV go up? If you met me you wouldn’t think I had a low energy. I am lean and not overweight. I want to get all metabolism markers higher. Any guidance would help! 

Mrs M: Dear Dr Cabral, I have searched but found no results regarding bunions (hallux valgus.) Can you recommend a natural treatment that does not involve surgery? I did a Google search and found all kinds of splints / straps / bandages and toe separators. I would very much appreciate if you could share any ideas on how to remedy this situation. I have only just begun to experience pain, I do not have a large growth and it’s only on my one foot. The big toe only points towards my other toes slightly. My mother and grandmother had it quite badly (my mother had hers removed surgically.) I have large, wide feet (European Size 43) which makes finding comfortable, well-fitting shoes for work (office job) nearly impossible. I’m also a runner but do not yet feel much pain when running (yet?) Would very much like to avoid surgery if possible. Thank you in advance for your help and feedback, it is very much appreciated. Mrs M.

Katie: Hi Dr. Cabral, This is the second time I’ve written in to the Cabral concept and instead of listing symptoms, I’d like to ask you a more over-arching health question. I’m in my late 20s and have been struggling with physical and mental health issues for most of my adult life. As a young woman I made most of my mistakes early on because I was ignorant to the health care system and honestly wasn’t a great advocate for myself. I allowed health professionals to diagnose and prescribe medication without questioning any of their methods. I thought doctors were altruists who cared for my well being and ultimately wanted to heal their patients. I was very wrong. I have a deep sense of distrust of doctors and although I see more healing in the natural medicine and holistic industry, I still find myself questioning whether the treatments will work. It’s a different business than the traditional health care industry, but a business none the less. How do you, I, or anyone for that matter, sift through all the information out in the world today, and how do we know who to trust? Sometimes I wish life came with an instruction manual. I’m feeling defeated and would love your insight. Thanks for always spreading your knowledge and positivity.

Thank you for tuning into this weekend’s Cabral HouseCalls and be sure to check back tomorrow for our Mindset & Motivation Monday show to get your week started off right!