INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE FOR OPTIMAL HEALTH
BRIDGING MODERN MEDICINE AND HOLISTIC WELLNESS
DR. AYESHA AMAN, FOUNDER OF RESTORE CENTER FOR INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE, OFFERS A HOLISTIC, TEAM- BASED APPROACH TO CARE. HERE, SHE DISCUSSES INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE, GUT HEALTH, HORMONAL HEALTH, AND PERSONALIZED TREATMENTS.
What does it mean to be a blended internist and integrative provider?
Integrative medicine combines conventional and complementary therapies. As a board-certified internal medicine physician, I first diagnose through an internal medicine lens, using my training to analyze past tests and lab results. Many patients seek integrative care because they want evidence-based natural treatments or haven’t found success with convention- al methods. Once I make a diagnosis, I determine which natural treatments may be effective, such as using acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and supplements for conditions like PCOS and migraines. However, there are times when medications are necessary for instance, to quickly control dangerously high blood pressure and I taper them off over time with natural therapies. Integrative care engages the body’s natural healing potential, something often overlooked in traditional medicine.
How important is the gut microbiome to overall well-being?
The gut microbiome is one of the most exciting areas in medicine today. It has unlocked our understanding of how everything in the body is interconnected. I educate patients about the gut-brain, gut-skin, and gut-thyroid axes, sharing studies that explain these links. For example, research shows that the gut micro- biome impacts conditions like PCOS, autoimmunity, and fatty liver disease. At RESTORE, we offer stool analysis and SIBO testing to assess gut health and guide patients on the right probiotics for their needs, focusing on balance between good and bad bacteria. For example, we check for levels of short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, which support immune function and a healthy metabolism. Our integrative dietitian oversees this testing, using food as medicine, and supplements when necessary, such as herbal antibiotics like berberine and oregano to address imbalances.
How does RESTORE approach chronic digestive issues differently?
Digestive issues are at epidemic levels, and many patients come to us after conventional treatments like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or elimination diets haven’t worked. PPIs, while effective for reflux, aren’t meant for long-term use and can lead to nutritional deficiencies or even osteoporosis. At RESTORE, we use herbs like licorice root and supplements that tar- get digestive health. We also offer comprehensive stool and breath testing, combined with acupuncture and gut-directed hypnosis. This evidence-based approach has been effective for chronic issues like IBS, with gut-directed hypnosis showing comparable results to the low FODMAP diet for IBS in clinical studies.
How do you approach hormonal balance, and can you explain what estrogen dominance is?
Estrogen dominance is a common hormonal imbalance in women, where there’s an excess of estro- gen relative to progesterone. It’s linked to conditions like PCOS, fibroids, endometriosis, dense breast tis- sue, and a higher risk of breast cancer. I use specialized hormonal testing to assess estrogen metabolites and guide patients on ways to help them metabolize estrogen more effectively. This information helps me see if their use of hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills is putting them at higher risk. By focusing on individualized care, we aim to reduce the risks associated with estrogen dominance and support overall hormonal health.
What role does nutrition play in integrative medicine, and how can identifying deficiencies like iron improve overall health?
Integrative medicine focuses on nutrition, as deficiencies can lead to chronic diseases. Nutritional deficiencies, like iron deficiency, often go unnoticed until symptoms such as hair loss or fatigue arise. I check iron levels in all patients, as deficiency can occur before anemia and impact many body functions. For instance, low iron can cause restless leg syndrome and anxiety. Iron deficiency can also indicate poor absorption from the GI tract which may lead to a diagnosis of celiac disease or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). The best way to check for iron deficiency is to check a ferritin level which is often not done. If it is below 30, that is definite iron deficiency. Studies suggest a ferritin of 100 is ideal. At RESTORE, we use advanced tests to detect deficiencies at a cellular level, guiding personalized dietary and supplement recommendations with the help of our registered dietitian.
How does acupuncture integrate into your treatment plans, and what benefits does it offer?
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine practice that stimulates the body’s natural healing abilities and balances energy. At RESTORE, we combine acupuncture and Chinese herbs with modern medicine to treat a wide range of conditions, from hormonal imbalances and fertility issues to migraines and chronic pain. Acupuncture is very successful at resolving symptoms that may not be explained by conventional diagnoses. There’s strong evidence sup- porting acupuncture’s effectiveness for insomnia, hot flashes, and even chemotherapy-induced nausea. It’s a powerful tool for correcting imbalances and helping patients feel better quickly, which allows them to engage more effectively in lifestyle changes like exercise and improved nutrition.
AYESHA AMAN, MD, MPH, ABOIM
INTERNAL AND INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE
Dr. Ayesha Aman is double board-certified in internal and integrative medicine, with a fellowship from the University of Arizona’s Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine. In 2016, she founded the RESTORE Center for Integrative Medicine, which combines conventional and evidence-based complementary medicine with a holistic, team-based approach. Her mission emphasizes drug reduction for lifelong health, and her team includes a registered dietitian, counselor, and acupuncture and Chinese medicine provider.
RESTORE Center for Integrative Medicine 6517 W. Plano Pkwy., Ste A, Plano, Texas 75093 214.396.0500 | www.therestorecenter.com