Health Uncovered with Mercedes Cook

Time truly does fly when you're parents! I'm so excited to finally sit down with my husband, Daniel, to share the incredible birth story of our son, Conrad, with all of you. Join us on this intimate journey, from the first signs of labor to the unexpected twists and challenges we faced. We'll dive into the emotional highs and lows of childbirth, the indispensable support of our doula and midwives,...

Could your hair uncover the root cause of your health issues? If you feel like you have tried everything under the sun and still can’t get any answers, then this episode is for you! I am joined by Dr. Halie Elchos, to discuss hair scan analysis for parasites, mold, and heavy metals and how this could work for you. Dr. Halie is a Doctor of Chiropractic and a Certified Functional Medicine Practition...

Have you ever considered alternative treatments for mental health or wondered about the latest advancements in monitoring female hormones? You are in luck, as in this episode, I am joined by my friend, Shiv Shukla, a visionary leader in the healthcare industry, and CEO at Persperity Health, to discuss groundbreaking treatments, including the use of ketamine for mental health. We'll dive into the i...

Are we truly leveraging the full potential of nutrition in cancer prevention and treatment? Dr. Patrick Quillin doesn't believe so and is here to share his extensive knowledge on how making strategic dietary choices is crucial for beating cancer with nutrition. Dr. Patrick Quillin, PhD RD CNS is an internationally respected authority on the subject of nutrition and cancer. His 20 years of educatio...

Have you ever struggled with digestive issues? If so, Chi Nei Tsang could be the alternative therapy you've been searching for. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Jaz, a seasoned Doctor of Chinese Medicine, to delve into this unique treatment. Dr. Jaz, an expert in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology, has been a practitioner in the Health and Wellness field since 2005. Her global pursuit of knowledg...

I can not believe that the time has come for me to share my third-trimester update with you all. I am ready to break down my experience week by week and share the reasons why I think everything has gone so well. In this episode, I’ll cover everything from enjoying a babymoon and attending birthing classes to managing discomfort and making final preparations for our baby's arrival. I’ll also share...

If you struggle with migraines, vertigo or dizziness, then you probably have faced the battle of trying to find an effective treatment option. In this final interview in my Upper Cervical Chiropractic Series, I am joined by another amazing upper cervical chiropractic colleague of mine, Dr. Bill Lordan. Dr. Lordan is one of a few hundred doctors worldwide trained in the Orthospinology procedure for...

If you've ever struggled with Meniere's symptoms, you know the frustration of searching for effective relief. In this episode, I'm excited to collaborate with Dr. Elizabeth Hoefer to explore how upper cervical chiropractic can be a transformative treatment option. Dr. Elizabeth Hoefer is a doctor of Chiropractic with a Bachelor's Degree in Science and an Associate's degree in Science and Chiroprac...

Are your efforts in addressing concussion and airway issues sufficient? Dr. Jane Brewer, an expert in Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care, believes that there’s more that can be done and is talking about her specialized experience in a continuation of our series on Upper Cervical Care.  In 2015 Dr. Brewer opened Precision Chiropractic in northern Colorado with a vision for caring for people suff...

Are you aware of how closely your upper cervical spine is linked to your body’s mobility? In this episode of our Upper Cervical Chiropractic Series, Dr. John Stenberg joins us to discuss this vital connection and share his insights on how upper cervical chiropractic care can transform your healthcare experience. Dr. John Stenberg is an Upper Cervical Chiropractor in private practice in Colorado Sp...

What exactly is upper cervical chiropractic, and what benefits could it offer you? In preparation for upcoming episodes where I will interview other upper cervical chiropractors, I am providing you with everything you need to know.  I'll give you an overview of what makes this approach unique, discuss its benefits, and address the top questions I get from patients. Whether you're curious abou...

When you hear "pelvic floor therapy," you might immediately think of pregnancy and postpartum care. However, it's also a critical treatment for symptoms like urinary leakage, constipation, prolapse, and pelvic pain. To unpack the benefits of pelvic floor therapy, I'm joined by Dr. Ariel Gallop, a physical therapist with special certification in this field. We'll discuss who can benefit from pelvic...

What are the best first foods for our babies? And during the demanding fourth trimester, why is it crucial to focus on our own nutrition? Becoming a mom is undoubtedly overwhelming, which is why I've brought in Jess Elizondo, a Certified Nutrition Consultant and mom, to share her advice on nutrition for both moms and their babies. In this episode, we'll explore effective ways for mothers to nouris...

Have you ever paid attention to how you breathe—through your nose or your mouth? If you often find yourself breathing through your mouth, this episode will be a real eye-opener for you. I am joined by Jenae Ciuffreda BS, RDH, CBBA, CSOM, a Certified Specialist in Orofacial Myology and a Certified Breathing Behavior Analyst/Therapist practicing in North County San Diego.  We’ll explore the ana...

Have you ever felt like your hormones are ‘off’? Experiencing hormone imbalance is not unusual, but have you ever tried to understand the ‘why’? I am joined by Dr. Stephanie Barbakoff, a board-certified Doctor of Chiropractic and a Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (DACNB), to discuss this very topic.  Join us as we get to the bottom of the complexities of hormonal dysreg...

Can you believe I’ve already passed my second trimester of pregnancy? I can not believe how fast the time has gone. I am bringing you this solo episode today to share with you all how I have navigated my second trimester and managed to feel my best! I am covering everything from the first fluttery baby movements to my chosen approach to ultrasounds and the natural ways I've kept my energy levels h...

Do you know who's in your wellness pit crew? Or maybe it is time for you to assemble one. In this episode, I am joined by the biggest mentor of my life, Dr. Heather Denniston.  Dr. Denniston is keynote speaker, author of Three Day Reset and a wellness strategist for elite leaders and their teams, bridging the connection between personal well-being and professional success.  She provides custo...

Have you heard about continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and are curious to learn more? In this episode, Dr. Nicholas Canelo joins me to discuss this new treatment in his clinic. Dr. Canelo is a dedicated Primary Care Physician with a comprehensive and holistic approach to care. He believes in the healing potential of lifestyle interventions and evidence-based alternative medicine. In today’s epis...

What comes to mind when you think of psychoanalysis? While you may be familiar with traditional talk therapy, today's episode delves into the deeper, often misunderstood world of psychoanalysis. Joining me today is Dr. Mariela Shibley, a seasoned psychologist and psychoanalyst based in San Diego. Dr. Shibley will explain what psychoanalysis really is and how it differs from traditional talk therap...

Are you struggling with the feeling that your neck isn't quite supporting you as it should, almost like it is going to fall off? If so, you might be experiencing cervical instability. In today’s episode, I am going to run you through the four things you can do to heal naturally from cervical instability before resorting to surgery.  Tune in as I outline a step-by-step plan that begins with co...

When you were first prescribed the pill, how much information were you given about it? If you are like most of us, I’m going to say not a lot. That’s why I am excited to be joined by Maddie Ginder Scannapieco to discuss the truth about birth control.  Maddie Scannapieco is a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner specializing in women's gut and hormone health. She helps women get to the...

Do you find yourself wondering, ‘What is wrong with me’ after every failed diet attempt? If you want to peel back the layers and find out why you just can’t seem to stick to a diet, then this is the episode for you! I am joined by Gina Worful, the founder of the Mastering Mindfulness Institute. While she’s a classically trained registered dietitian, her work is far from conventional. Gina’s frustr...

Are you stuck in a cycle of yo-yo dieting? Are you ready for an approach that will fuel your body and make you feel your best? In this episode, I am joined by double-certified nutrition coach Dani Marenburg to explore macronutrients and their phases.  Dani specializes in optimizing macronutrients and lifestyle habits and is passionate about helping other women reach their ultimate body transf...

Were you someone who just wants to wing it when it comes to pre-conception and pregnancy, or are you going in with a plan? My type A personality meant that preparation was key. So from the very beginning, I have taken steps to prepare myself for pregnancy, and I am going to share these with you!  Be warned, this episode dives deep into personal territory, covering everything (and I truly mean...

Are you fully in tune with your body's structural balance? Often, the root causes of our physical discomfort go deeper than we realize. In this episode, I'm joined by Henry Kagey, a specialist in structural integration with a unique blend of expertise. Armed with a Ph. D. in Civil and Structural Engineering from UC Berkeley and accolades as a nationally ranked Taiji athlete, Henry brings a unique...