FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE BRIEF
ISSUE #2: February 13, 2026
Mitchell's Pick
Psyllium husk fiber is doing more than bulking stool. At adequate doses (2-2.5 TBSP per day!!), it reshapes the microbiome, boosts butyrate, lowers inflammation, and regulates bowel function. For anyone carrying an IBS label, the FEED framework (Fiber, Elevation, Exercise, Drink water) is a straightforward way to support gut physiology instead of treating IBS as a fixed diagnosis.
Kate's Pick
Rhonda Patrick (🫶) made a great point: going gluten-free isn't automatically healthier, especially when the gap gets filled with ultra-processed gluten-free foods. For some people, true gluten-free does make sense beyond celiac, but it should be intentional, nutrient-dense, and driven by symptoms and physiology, not fear or food marketing.
Probably no one actually noticed, but our direct order labs website is getting a behind-the-scenes upgrade. If you tried to order and were met with a "that doesn't exist" error, please check back next week. (or email us directly to place a lab order 🙃)
Enjoy your weekend,
—Mitchell & Kate
PS: Wanted to give a full-transparency shout-out to StudioNeat for the email format. I'm loving the quick interesting bits! And they make excellent writing tools for those as particular as I am. [not sponsored or affiliated]