Using Ancient Wisdom with Modern Neuroscience to Heal Complex Chronic Illness with Mel Hopper Koppelman

In today's episode, Dr. Jockers welcomes Mel Hopper Koppelman, a leading expert in functional health. With over 15 years of clinical experience, Mel specializes in helping those struggling with chronic illness find lasting solutions by addressing overlooked factors in the nervous system.   Mel shares her unique approach to chronic disease and brain health, blending Chinese medicine, functional medicine, and developmental neurology. We explore how small shifts in understanding the brain’s development can make a world of difference in healing and reclaiming vitality.   If you've been navigating the maze of chronic illness and haven't found your solution yet, this episode could change everything. Tune in to learn more about Mel's transformative methods that go beyond traditional treatments and uncover a path to true recovery.   In This Episode: 00:00 Understanding Stress Responses 06:03 Interview with Mel Hopper Koppelman: Combining Ancient Wisdom with Modern Neuroscience 08:35 Mel's Personal Health Journey 12:18 First Principles Framework in Health 17:21 Primitive Reflexes and Chronic Illness 28:45 Understanding the Nervous System's Role in Health 30:14 The Vagus Nerve and Its Importance 30:41 Exploring the Vagal Paradox 33:52 The Impact of Chronic Illness on the Nervous System 36:42 Exercise Intolerance and Dorsal Vagal Tone 43:27 Sensory Mismatch and Its Effects 46:10 The Role of Labs in Functional Medicine 50:13 Key Health Strategies for Chronic Illness 52:24 Group Coaching and Support at Synthesis Health   Did you know collagen production declines as you age? Boost your body's collagen with Paleovalley Bone Broth Protein, made from 100% grass-fed beef bones. It supports healthy skin, joints, and digestion in just 30 seconds a day. No time to simmer bones? No problem! Simply mix the protein powder with hot water or add it to smoothies. Get yours today at paleovalley.com/drjockers and use code JOCKERS to save 15%!   Struggling with digestion? Just Thrive Digestive Bitters help stimulate the production of stomach acid, bile, and pancreatic enzymes, improving digestion, easing bloating, and enhancing nutrient absorption. It's the natural way to support your gut health and feel better after every meal. Visit justthrivehealth.com and use code JOCKERS to save 20% off your order!   Experience a new efficiency level with Freed AI, the AI medical scribe that transforms how healthcare professionals manage documentation. It listens, transcribes, and finalizes clinical notes instantly, perfect for both in-office and virtual visits across all specialties. HIPAA-compliant and incredibly user-friendly, Freed AI lets you reclaim hours each day, allowing you to focus more on your patients. Start your free trial today—no credit card is needed. For my listeners, use promo code Jockers50 for 50% off your first month when you subscribe. Learn more at getfreed.ai.     "Chronic illness often stems from underlying brain development issues that can be addressed with the right approach." ~ Dr. Jockers     Subscribe to the podcast on: Apple Podcast Stitcher Spotify PodBean  TuneIn Radio     Resources: Paleovalley - visit paleovalley.com/jockers Visit justthrivehealth.com and use code Jockers for a 20% discount Visit getfreed.ai.     Connect with Mel Hopper Koppelman: Website - https://essays.synthesishealth.co/mel-hopper-koppelman/     Connect with Dr. Jockers: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjockers/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/DrDavidJockers YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/user/djockers Website – https://drjockers.com/   If you are interested in being a guest on the show, we would love to hear from you! Please contact us here! - https://drjockers.com/join-us-dr-jockers-functional-nutrition-podcast/