Bendy Bodies with Dr. Linda Bluestein

• Hidden Triggers of Complex Illness with Dr. David Kaufman (Ep 136)

  In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein sits down with Dr. David Kaufman, a specialist in complex illnesses, to discuss how infections, immune dysfunction, and connective tissue disorders intersect. They explore why many chronic illnesses are often overlooked or misdiagnosed. This includes conditions like ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyeltiis/chronic fatigue syndrome), Long COVID, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and dysautonomia, Dr. Kaufman shares insights on the role of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Lyme Disease, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and other infections in triggering chronic conditions. They also dive into peptides, plasmapheresis, exosomes, and mitochondrial health as potential treatment avenues. If you've struggled to get answers about complex illness, this episode is packed with groundbreaking insights and expert advice. Takeaways: Complex Illness Requires a Multi-System Approach – Chronic conditions like ME/CFS, EDS, MCAS, and dysautonomia are interconnected, requiring a holistic approach rather than isolated treatments. Infections Can Trigger or Worsen Chronic Illness – Epstein-Barr virus, Lyme disease, and other chronic infections often reactivate in immune-compromised individuals, leading to long-term symptoms. Peptides and Exosomes Show Promise – Treatments like thymosin alpha-1, BPC-157, and exosomes may help modulate immune function and promote healing. Pelvic Congestion & Blood Flow Issues Matter – Unrecognized vascular issues, like May-Thurner syndrome and pelvic congestion syndrome, can contribute to POTS and hemodynamic instability. Mitochondrial Health is Key to Recovery – Addressing mitochondrial dysfunction through targeted therapies can help reduce fatigue and improve overall health in complex illness patients. Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/. Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Find this episode's transcript here. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/. Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: [email protected] YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about  Dr. David Kaufman Blue Sky: @kaufmanmd.bsky.social Website: https://www.centerforcomplexdiseases.com/ Podcast Link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkJiyBgDrgE5xWi3_tFsXHg Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• The Truth About Hormone Therapy | Office Hours (EP 135)

  In this solo episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein dives deep into the complex world of hormones, menopause, and connective tissue disorders. She explores how estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone impact joint health, the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and why menopause can worsen EDS symptoms. Dr. Bluestein also breaks down gender-affirming hormone therapy, the role of mast cells in hormonal responses, and why some testosterone clinics may not have your best interests at heart. Whether you're considering HRT, navigating menopause with hypermobility, or wondering how hormones influence mast cells, this episode is packed with practical advice and science-backed insights. Takeaways: Hormones Affect Connective Tissue & Joint Stability – Estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone all influence collagen production, ligament strength, and tissue elasticity, which is why hormonal changes impact pain and mobility. Menopause Can Worsen EDS Symptoms – The decline in estrogen post-menopause contributes to joint pain, fatigue, and increased injury risk, making HRT a potential tool for symptom management. Testosterone Therapy Has Benefits & Risks – While testosterone can improve muscle mass, bone density, and fatigue, it must be monitored carefully to avoid cardiovascular risks, clotting issues, and hormone imbalances. Be Cautious with Hormone Clinics – Some online or walk-in testosterone clinics prioritize sales over patient health, so always ensure proper lab testing and medical oversight before starting HRT. Mast Cells Respond to Hormonal Changes – Hormones like estrogen and progesterone can trigger mast cell activation, impacting inflammation, pain, and allergic responses—especially in conditions like MCAS and POTS. Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/. Find the transcript for this episode here. Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/. Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: [email protected] YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Why Sjogren’s is Often Misdiagnosed with Dr. Kara Wada (Ep 134)

  In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Dr. Kara Wada, an allergy and immunology expert, to explore Sjogren’s disease and its connection to hypermobility, dysautonomia, and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). They discuss why Sjogren’s is one of the most underdiagnosed autoimmune conditions, its symptoms beyond dryness, and how it intertwines with POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) and EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes). Dr. Wada also dives into Sjogren’s diagnostic challenges, emerging treatments, nutrition strategies, and the role of inflammation in fatigue and pain. Whether you’re navigating autoimmune symptoms or looking for practical tools to manage them, this episode is filled with expert insights and actionable advice. Find this episode's transcript here: https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/sjogrens-misdiagnosis-dr-kara-wada/ Takeaways: Sjogren’s is Massively Underdiagnosed – Up to 75% of people with Sjogren’s remain undiagnosed, in part because its symptoms extend far beyond dryness and don’t always present in a textbook way. Autoimmune Conditions & EDS Are Connected – Sjogren’s, POTS, and MCAS frequently overlap due to their shared impact on the immune and nervous systems, making diagnosis and treatment complex. Dryness is Just the Beginning – Sjogren’s can cause neuropathy, fatigue, dysautonomia, gastrointestinal issues, and even a higher risk of lymphoma, making it more than just an inconvenience. Current Treatments Are Limited but Improving – There are no FDA-approved medications specifically for Sjogren’s, but promising treatments are currently in phase 3 trials, offering hope for better management Nutrition & Lifestyle Matter – Avoiding ultra-processed foods, prioritizing hydration, and incorporating anti-inflammatory nutrients can help manage symptoms and support immune function. Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/. Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Past Episodes: https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/linking-mast-cell-activation-autoimmunity-and-eds/ https://www.drkarawada.com/podcasts/becoming-immune-confident/episodes/2148563154 Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/. Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: [email protected] YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about  Dr. Karen Wada Twitter: @CrunchyAllergy Instagram: @immuneconfidentmd TikTok: @immuneconfidentmd FB: @KaraWadaMD YT: @drkarawada Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• How Internists Think About Complex Illness with Dr. Matthew Watto (Ep 133)

  In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein speaks with Dr. Matthew Watto, an internist and co-host of The Curbsiders podcast, about how patients can work effectively with their internist to get the best care. They discuss how internists think, why appointment times are limited, and strategies for getting the most out of every visit. Dr. Watto shares behind-the-scenes insights on primary care challenges, chronic pain management, and the medical system's limitations, while also offering practical tips for improving doctor-patient communication. If you've ever felt frustrated navigating the healthcare system, this episode provides game-changing strategies to help you get the care you need. Takeaways: Internists Have Limited Training in EDS & Hypermobility – Many internists receive little to no education on hypermobility-related conditions, making patient education and advocacy essential. Appointment Time is Short—Be Prepared – Most internists have at the very most 15-20 minutes for follow-ups and 30-40 minutes for new patients, so bringing a prioritized list of concerns helps maximize the visit. Ask for a Collaborative Approach – Internists are generalists, meaning they oversee a wide range of conditions. Patients with complex conditions should request coordination between specialists for better care. Concierge & Academic Medicine May Offer More Time – Patients who need longer appointments or more personalized care may benefit from concierge medicine, academic medical centers, or direct primary care models. Doctors Want to Help, But the System is Broken – Many doctors feel frustrated by short appointment times, insurance barriers, and administrative burdens. Patient-doctor teamwork is key to navigating these challenges. Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/. Find the transcript for this episode here. Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/. Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: [email protected] YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about Dr. Matthew Watto YT: @TheCurbsiders IG: @thecurbsiders Twitter: @/thecurbsiders & @doctorwatto Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Reversing Brain Fog & Inflammation with Dr. Ilene Ruhoy (Ep 132)

  In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Dr. Ilene Ruhoy, a board-certified neurologist and environmental toxicologist, for an in-depth discussion on brain fog, cognitive dysfunction, and chronic fatigue in conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and dysautonomia. Dr. Ruhoy shares insights on the immune system’s role in neurological symptoms, the impact of mast cell activation, and the role of treatments like peptides, IVIG (intravenous gammaglobulin), plasmapheresis, and immune modulators. They also discuss the hidden effects of histamine on the brain, how sensory sensitivity contributes to fatigue, and the role of regenerative medicine in connective tissue healing. This episode is packed with cutting-edge research and practical solutions for improving cognitive function and energy levels. Takeaways: Brain Fog & Fatigue Are Linked to Immune Dysfunction: Cognitive dysfunction in conditions like EDS, MCAS, and POTS is often tied to inflammatory responses and immune dysregulation rather than just histamine alone. Plasmapheresis & IVIG Can Help Some Patients: For severe cases, plasmapheresis removes inflammatory mediators from the blood, and IVIG helps regulate immune function, leading to cognitive and fatigue improvements. Histamine Plays a Complex Role in Brain Function: While histamine can trigger symptoms in MCAS patients, it also has neuroprotective effects, making antihistamine overuse a potential issue for some. Sensory Sensitivity Increases Cognitive Load: Many people with EDS and related conditions experience hypersensitivity to light, noise, and smells, which can overwhelm the nervous system and worsen fatigue. Regenerative Medicine May Support Connective Tissue Repair: Peptides, stem cell therapy, and targeted immune modulation are promising areas of research to help strengthen connective tissue and reduce systemic inflammation. Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/. Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/. Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: [email protected] YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about Dr. Ilene Ruhoy Instagram: @IleneRuhoyMDPhD TikTok: @IleneRuhoyMDPhD Podcast (YT): @Unraveledpod Twitter: @RuhoyMD Bluesky: @ruhoy.bsky.social Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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