Katie Kavicky-Mels, Author at 911��

I Graduate Next Week: My Final Student Blog Post

Katie Kavicky-Mels — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 15:10:45 +0000

This is the final student blog post that I will write before I graduate from the naturopathic medicine program next Friday.

Reflecting on my 4-year journey here at 911��, I realize how much I have learned, experienced, and grown as a result of my education and experiences. I have met some of the most amazing and passionate people, building meaningful connections and friendships with them. I have deepened my passion for natural medicine. Although these years have been challenging and rigorous, I have pushed my limits, found my strengths and risen up to become a future naturopathic physician. This journey has definitely been the most rewarding commitment to myself and my future work that I have ever done.

I am incredibly grateful for all of my professors, clinicians and fellow students. I am grateful for the support I received from my family and friends when all I was doing was studying on a daily basis. I am grateful for all of the patients I worked with in the naturopathic student clinic, as I have learned so much from them and their cases.

I am excited and grateful to begin the next chapter of my life. I will return back home to Wisconsin. I look forward to continuing the work that I started here at 911��, bringing my knowledge, passion, and genuine heart into the community I live in. I look forward to discovering more about the science and art of naturopathic medicine as I go along.

It has been an absolute honor to be the naturopathic student blogger during my time here at 911��.

Read more about naturopathic medicine clinical opportunities at 911�� here.

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Grand Rounds Presentations at 911��

Katie Kavicky-Mels — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 15:45:12 +0000

On Friday of last week, I had the amazing opportunity to present my Grand Rounds presentation before I graduate next month. The title of my presentation was “Treating SIBO Naturally With a Multi-modal Approach: Why Diet and Anti-Microbial Botanicals are Not Enough.” During my presentation, I presented on a case that I had worked on in the naturopathic clinic where the patient was not improving as a result of making significant dietary alterations and taking anti-microbial botanicals to manage her SIBO symptoms. I discussed additional elements that I incorporated into her treatment that significantly moved the needle and helped improve her symptoms, such as SIBO breath testing (and re-testing) for targeted anti-microbial recommendations, the usage of motility agents, vagal nerve stimulation, gut repair and repairing the nerves that are responsible for the optimal functioning of the gastrointestinal housekeeping waves that prevent bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine and SIBO recurrence (the migrating motor complex). I also supported my multi-modal approach with current research.��

I have genuinely enjoyed listening to the Grand Rounds presentations of my fellow colleagues in clinic. Everyone has been presenting on clinical topics that are of interest to them, and it has been a great opportunity to learn more about their clinical perspectives and research.

It is hard to believe that graduation will be happening next month! I have been pondering a lot about my experiences during the naturopathic medicine program and my journey these last 4 years at 911��. I am getting prepared to enter the next phase of my journey.

Learn more about 911��’ naturopathic medicine program here.

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Supporting Optimal Gut Health Using the 5R Protocol

Katie Kavicky-Mels — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 14:10:31 +0000

I recently had the opportunity in the Lombard student clinic to create another treatment plan inspired by the 5R protocol, which is commonly used in functional medicine to address gut dysfunction. It is a clinical approach that addresses gut pathogens, digestive insufficiencies and imbalances in the gut microbiota. It helps restore optimal gut health and function. In order to make a customized treatment plan for the patient, I used information that I gathered during the full history, review of systems and physical exams. Additionally, I was able to review the results of recent blood work and a functional stool test, which made treatment plan recommendations even more specific to the patient’s needs.

I would like to share the backbone of the 5R protocol, which includes the following elements:

Remove – It is necessary to remove any offending foods that are causing reactions for the patient (i.e. gluten, dairy, specific foods unique to the individual). In the case of food intolerances or sensitivities, it is essential to remove these offenders from the diet so that the gut can begin to heal. Additionally, depending upon unique gut infections that are impacting the individual, various anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic, or anti-viral botanicals or natural agents may be appropriate.

Replace – in the case of maldigestion or malabsorption, it may be appropriate to support and restore healthy digestion by providing digestive support (ie. apple cider vinegar, herbal bitters, betaine HCl, pepsin, ox bile, pancreatic enzymes). Individuals with food reactions tend to have enzyme deficiencies, which negatively interfere with the proper breaking down of dietary proteins. These natural agents restore optimal digestion and absorption.��

Reinoculate – Recolonizing the gut with beneficial bacteria (i.e. various types of probiotics) promotes optimal gut health. This may also include recommending prebiotics. Beneficial bacteria consume prebiotics, encouraging their growth. The ultimate goal here is to rebuild and re-establish the gut microbiota.

Repair – The integrity of the gut mucosa is restored by providing various substances (ie. L-glutamine, deglycyrrhizinated licorice, bone broth, herbs, vitamins, essential fatty acids) that assist in repairing the gut lining. Immune support (ie. colostrum, immunoglobulins) also can help repair the integrity of the gut.

Rebalance – This includes addressing the health of the individual as a whole, so it includes a diverse set of lifestyle recommendations (ie. sleep, nutrition, physical activity, stress management) that help support health and prevent future gut dysfunction. Ultimately, these elements that build general health also help heal the gut.

For more naturopathic medicine nutrition topics, see Food-Based Medicine and Soup Season!

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The Beauty & Potential of Presence: Thoughts 911�� Strong Doctor-Patient Relationships

Katie Kavicky-Mels — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 13:15:28 +0000

My recent experiences as a naturopathic intern at the Lombard Student Clinic have inspired me to reflect on the beautiful and powerful potential of strong doctor-patient relationships. This topic is actually something that I also pondered about while I was still in my observation rotation several trimesters ago (before becoming a naturopathic intern).

At that time, I observed and acknowledged a particular quality of the doctor-patient relationship that I found especially powerful—presence. When those in the doctor role were fully present, I observed that they were able to more easily connect with the patient’s needs, communicate more effectively, and interact more naturally and genuinely, all of which contributed to stronger, more respectful doctor-patient relationships. At that time, I theorized that this would ultimately serve as the foundation to establish more trust and an increased therapeutic potential, which would support other downstream beneficial impacts (i.e. increased patient compliance, improved health outcomes).

At that time, I was “only” an observer of the doctor-patient relationships that I was able to witness in the clinic. I was “only”able to observe patterns that I picked up on while witnessing these interactions, and I simply projected potential clinical effects that may result from strong relationships. At that time, I could not verify for certain if my presumptions were true.

In the last 10 months of being a naturopathic intern, I can now say with certainty that my presumptions are, in fact, true. I experienced several examples of where a strong doctor-patient relationship grounded in presence supported positive interpersonal and communication interactions and opportunities. Strong doctor-patient relationships built increased trust and therapeutic potential, which made patients more likely to communicate about their unique needs, challenges, and discover potential solutions to their challenges. Strong relationships also created the groundwork for patients to be more open and curious. I have personally found that these factors contribute to increased compliance when it comes to treatment plans, which ultimately positively impacts clinical outcomes. For those in the doctor role of the doctor-patient relationship, something as simple as maintaining presence has the capacity to unlock real, tangible benefits that positively impact the patient. I am honored that I have experienced firsthand the beauty and potential that lie in strong doctor-patient relationships.��

Meet some of 911��’ ND graduates here.

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Thoughts 911�� Paradigms & Change

Katie Kavicky-Mels — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 13:10:55 +0000

Since I was young, I have been fascinated by the concept of change. When I was in my master’s program studying holistic health education, one of my favorite classes concerned the topic of “the challenge of change.” I explored topics like obstacles and resistance to change and discovered several different models of change. Some of the models of change described a very mechanistic and behaviorally-focused perspective of change. I personally found these models very limited, short-sighted, and dry. Instead, my favorite models of change recognized and described the role that paradigms play within the context of change. These models emphasized autonomy, internal motivation, and empowerment.

A paradigm describes a set of largely unconscious beliefs or assumptions that shape the way we view the world. Looking through such lenses impacts the way we see and understand reality, how we think reality should look, our attitudes, and what we view as ‘unacceptable’ or ‘threatening’ in relation to our understanding of reality. Since paradigms solidify these belief systems, they also serve as the foundation from which our actions and behaviors emerge. We literally embody our paradigms— they create our ideas of who we are and influence the expression of who we are by driving our actions. Paradigms are not only related to personal beliefs; they also exist in all cultural contexts (i.e. social institutions). Cultural paradigms are often accepted by individuals via the internalization of these unconscious constructs.

In student clinic, I am honored to witness the process of change actively at play in the patients with whom I work. I have seen firsthand the significant role that paradigm shifts play in supporting real and lasting health-related changes. I noticed that patients who have allowed their fundamental paradigms to shift have taken on different ideas and thoughts about themselves and the world. These different ideas have driven a shift in their behaviors. I am blessed that I have been able to witness paradigm shifts in my patients—because of them, patients have been able to implement treatment plan recommendations with a greater sense of grace.

There is a Victor Hugo quote that I have always appreciated, and it reminds me of the topic of paradigms and change. It reads, “no force on earth can stop an idea whose time has come.” Once the paradigm has shifted, the ideas naturally shift. The thoughts naturally shift. The attitudes naturally shift. The behaviors naturally shift. There is a sweet connection between the mental and the physical manifestation. I personally think that this goes well beyond mere ‘change’—I think this topic dives into the concept of transformation.

It is fire! It is alchemy! This process inspires me like no other!

Ready to be inspired? Learn more about Katie’s Naturopathic Medicine student journey here.

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Paleo Pumpkin Bread Recipe & Pumpkin Spice!

Katie Kavicky-Mels — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 13:05:52 +0000

Autumn has finally arrived! My wife and dog visited this weekend, and we went on several walks. We enjoyed the glorious sunshine, the early color changes of the leaves, and the crisper air. She surprised me with a loaf of homemade pumpkin bread, and it has been an absolute treat!

Since it is one of my personal favorite Paleo treats, I would like to share the recipe with you. I have recommended a Paleo diet to some of my patients in the student clinic. It is nice to make treats that not only go along with dietary recommendations, but also taste great. It is made using wholesome ingredients and highlights everyone’s fall favorite… pumpkin spice!

Pumpkin spice contains a mixture of several spices including cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, clove, and cardamom. Not only does it taste great, but it also contains wonderful medicinal properties that benefit the digestive and immune systems.

Paleo Pumpkin Bread

In a bowl, mix together:

1 cup pumpkin puree
3 eggs
1/3 cup full fat coconut milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp monk fruit extract
1-3/4 cups blanched almond flour
1 Tbs coconut flour
1 Tbs (or more) pumpkin pie spice
1/2 tsp (or more) cinnamon
1 tsp baking soda
A couple of pinches of pink Himalayan/sea salt
1/3 cup pecan halves (for the topping)

Pour the mixture into a greased (coconut oil) loaf or cupcake pan. Top with pecan halves. Bake at 350º until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.

If you make this pumpkin bread, I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

Follow Katie’s naturopathic medicine student journey here!

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The Beginning of My Last Trimester at 911��

Katie Kavicky-Mels — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 22:30:13 +0000

Although I continued working in the naturopathic student clinic during this last break from school, I made sure to fully take advantage of the weekends and make them seem as much of a “break” as possible. I drove home to visit my house and go camping every weekend. I enjoyed delicious meat and veggies on the grill, walked around the campground, visited the local sandy beaches, relaxed in the lawn chair, watched the chickens roam the backyard, enjoyed campfires, watched the stars, slept soundly, and danced at the campground’s weekly dances. I even extended two of the weekends so that I had more time to drop into deeper rest and relaxation. Even though this was not a traditional break, I still found the weekends particularly special.��

As I now officially begin my last trimester of the naturopathic medicine program, I am prepared to continue learning and applying my knowledge in the naturopathic student clinic. I also feel an incredible sense of focus on my studies and the profession in general. In these next couple of months, if you are seeking a naturopathic intern at the clinic—either for a presumed or known health issue, health optimization, functional medicine testing, or a freshman physical—I would love to work with you! You can request me as your intern when you call the student clinic to make an appointment.

Here’s to the beginning of my last trimester at 911��!

Find out more about 911��’ naturopathic medicine program today!

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A Different Trimester Wrap-Up Than Normal

Katie Kavicky-Mels — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 14:55:20 +0000

I am now in the process of wrapping up yet another trimester of the naturopathic medicine program. However, this trimester wrap-up is different than past wrap-ups for a couple of reasons.

��First, I will be taking my last set of final exams at 911��, because I will have completed all of my coursework. This means that my botanical medicine final exam will be the last final exam that I ever take at 911��. This is actually a bit bittersweet for me. I am excited that I can focus only on my clinical learnings next trimester without the assignments, studying, and exams associated with coursework. With more time, I know that I will use it to dive deeply into researching rabbit holes that I hear calling my name. I really enjoy spending time researching, as I am able to not only learn new things, but I also have the opportunity to apply the knowledge I have in clinical ways! On the other hand, it will be a bit strange having no coursework next trimester, because I genuinely have enjoyed learning the material and concepts presented in my classes for the past several years. However, I know that my learning is far from finished (as I already have plans for continuing education).

Next, this trimester’s end is also different than past trimesters, because I will have no break in between this trimester and the next. Instead, I will continue carrying out my naturopathic clinic shifts throughout the break. This is good, because I will continue to see patients without a pause in care. I will still go home to Wisconsin during break, but only on the weekends. It will be a change for sure, and I look forward to visiting home more frequently. And then in the Fall, I will officially be starting my last trimester at 911��!

��Find out more about 911��’ Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine here.

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Self-Care Strategies I Prioritized While Creating a Sustainable Schedule

Katie Kavicky-Mels — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 13:00:11 +0000

In the last several years of being a naturopathic medicine student, I have been presented with various types of challenges. Oftentimes, the high depth and volume of the content I was learning made me feel like I was drinking water through a fire hose. I completed various types of assignments and studied for quizzes, written exams, and practical exams on a rolling basis. I was also learning new skills and perspectives, had to remain focused from trimester to trimester, and had to balance out various aspects of my life.

I would like to dedicate this blog post to discussing some of the self-care strategies and things that I personally prioritized when making my day-to-day schedule. Prioritizing these strategies helped me remain both balanced and focused on my goals, which allowed me to accept the challenges directly and view them as opportunities for growth.

1) Prioritizing sleep.

Not only did I select a sleep schedule that I know works well for me, but I also never sacrificed my sleep schedule or negotiated it in any way during the program. This means that, even if I had a specific quiz or test coming up, I would always respect my need for sleep.

��2) Prioritizing healthy eating.

I function best when I eat whole foods that I prepare myself. Therefore, I created a food schedule that prioritized grocery shopping, food preparation, cooking, and packing up meals into containers. This is something that I was not willing to negotiate or slip on, because I know how important it is for me to eat in a way that makes me feel my best.

3) Prioritizing nature time.

I deeply value time that I spend in nature. I enjoy camping, hiking, foraging, gardening, hanging out with my chickens, and experiencing the absolute beauty of forests, wild animals, and open spaces. I knew that moving to Illinois for school would be a bit different in the nature department than what I am typically used to in Wisconsin. I prioritized daily outdoor walks, as it allowed me to connect with nature, other people, and life. This was often my most essential promoter of positive mental health and well-being during the program.

4) Prioritizing physical activity.

In addition to my daily outside walks, I also prioritized time for daily jumping on my rebounder trampoline. I also put together a schedule to allow for lifting kettlebells, doing floor exercises, and stretching depending on the day of the week.

5) Prioritizing my role as a student.

Before I started the naturopathic medicine program, I spoke with an alumnus who gave me wonderful advice. He told me to remember that it is my job while in school to simply be a student and to embrace a lifestyle dedicated to learning. This piece of advice has stuck with me throughout the program. It helped me accept my role as a student. It also helped me focus my actions and set necessary boundaries.

Are you considering becoming a naturopathic physician? Discover our program here, and meet some 911�� grads here

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Reflecting on My Second Trimester Learnings as a Naturopathic Intern

Katie Kavicky-Mels — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 13:00:54 +0000

I have really been enjoying my time as a naturopathic intern in the Lombard student clinic. As I explained last trimester when I first started as an intern, I particularly enjoy carrying out the process that includes taking a naturopathic new patient intake up to presenting the review of findings and treatment plan. This process first consists of inquiring about and collecting information about the patient’s history of their present illness, past medical history, family history, social history, and several lifestyle factors that influence their health. Additionally, I gather a brief overview of the several systems of the body, carry out appropriate physical examinations, order appropriate lab tests, and interpret the lab results and correlate them to the historical and clinical findings. Then I go over a review of findings with the patient and present a treatment plan of action.

For example, I have been honored to witness the amazing progress that some patients have made over time and their positive responses to the implementation of the treatment plans. I now see some patients that I have been working with for several months. Last trimester, I carried out the initial naturopathic intake and physical exams, lab work, and presented treatment plans to them. And now, several months after implementing the treatment plan, these patients have come back for re-examinations, in which their progress with the treatment goals was evaluated. We look at their symptoms and, if appropriate, we re-run lab work. I then presented them with updated treatment plans for further, more nuanced support that natural medicine also offers.

All I can say is that it has been absolutely beautiful and inspiring to witness the progress that several patients have achieved with their wellness goals! They have been able to successfully implement dietary, supplement, botanical, other lifestyle recommendations, and natural therapies into their lives gracefully. AND their clinical symptoms and labs have significantly improved! Having the honor to witness their positive progress has not only caused me to feel inspired and fulfilled in helping them, but I think it also highlights the effectiveness of naturopathic medicine over the course of time for the health conditions that I have seen. Being a naturopathic intern in the student clinic has been my absolute favorite way of learning about the science and art of naturopathic medicine!

Read, “What You Don’t (but Need to) Know 911�� Naturopathic Medicine” here.

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Katie Kavicky-Mels, Author at 911����