Dr. Jen Simmons: Unconventional Wisdom - A Surgeon's New Take on Breast Cancer Treatment and Prevention

In this insightful episode, I am joined by Dr. Jen Simmons, a board-certified breast cancer surgeon turned functional medicine advocate. Dr. Jen shares her journey from conventional medicine to functional medicine, inspired by her own battle with breast cancer and the loss of her cousin. We dive deep into alternative approaches to health and discuss the importance of individual responsibility in healing, proactive health measures, and the challenge of toxins in our everyday lives. Dr. Jen's Journey into Functional Medicine Her journey from conventional medicine to functional medicine was inspired by her cousin's death from metastatic breast cancer. The traditional medical approach vs. functional medicine Dr. Jen's realization that the current medical system focuses on sick care rather than healthcare.  A pivotal moment when Dr. Jen came across Dr. Mark Hyman's lecture on functional medicine, which led to a major shift in her practice. Embracing Alternative Approaches Shifting focus from disease management to holistic health. Discussion on "blue zones" where individuals live long, healthy lives.  Importance of diet, physical activity, quality sleep, and avoiding toxins. The harmful effects of a sedentary lifestyle, poor sleep, and exposure to toxins. Recommendation: Use filtered water in glass or stainless steel containers and avoid single-use coffee pods. Tackling the Plastic Menace Criticizing the excessive use of plastic in everyday products. How small changes can lead to substantial positive effects on health. Mention of the book "Fatal Conveniences" discussing similar issues. Towards a Toxin-Free Lifestyle Strategies for reducing toxin exposure and making intentional lifestyle choices. The concept of joyful movement and meditation as crucial aspects of self-care.  The Power of Lifestyle Changes Dr. Jen’s experience with health issues and the importance of investigating root causes. The power of embracing change and seeing illness not as a punishment but as an opportunity for improved health. Questioning Conventional Medical Practices Critical discussion on the effectiveness and risks of mammograms. The potential of QT Imaging, an FDA-approved, radiation-free imaging technique, as a future alternative to mammograms. Hormone Replacement Therapy: A Misunderstood Concept Debunking myths surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Discussion on the Women's Health Initiative study and its impact on the perception of HRT. Hormone Replacement Therapy: A Comprehensive Approach Advocating for HRT in combination with a healthy lifestyle. The use of bioidentical hormones in HRT and their potential benefits on breast cancer outcomes. The First Step to Health Improvement: Dietary Changes Dr. Jen's advice on adopting an anti-inflammatory diet as the first step towards better health. Mention of Dr. Jen's website, RealHealthMD, where listeners can find more resources and connect with her. 
If you'd like to get in touch with Dr. Jenn, check out the complete show notes at inspiredliving.show/98