Questions Answered:
0:38 — How do mast cells affect gut motility (SIBO, bloating, constipation, “general yuck” feeling)?
2:20 — Can reflux be a symptom of MCAS?
3:53 — Can SSRIs cause or worsen mast cell activation syndrome?
7:07 — What is the connection between MCAS and obesity or metabolic disorders?
9:25 — Why can fermented foods trigger symptoms in MCAS even though they’re considered healthy?
12:00 — What are the best peptides for mast cell activation in the gut?
14:30 — Can mast cells affect the brain, and how does the gut–brain connection play a role?
19:40 — Is there an emotional component to MCAS? If you felt safe, would symptoms improve?
26:42 — What is the difference between MCAS and mastocytosis?
32:33 — If heat and exercise trigger symptoms, along with food sensitivities, can avoiding those foods reduce those reactions to heat and exercise?
35:50 — How should binders be used in MCAS, especially for mold illness (CIRS)?
40:20 — What is the relationship between MCAS and multiple chemical sensitivities?
42:27 — Is there a connection between Morgellons and MCAS
44:04 — How do Lyme disease and related infections affect the gut and mast cells?
45:30 — Are there alternatives to antibiotics for treating SIBO?
49:03 — What is the relationship between Alpha Gal Syndrome and MCAS?
53:05 — How do seasonal changes (pollen, temperature, mold) affect MCAS symptoms?
54:20 — What role do mast cells play in Crohn’s, colitis, celiac disease, and other inflammatory bowel diseases?
57:44 — Are women more affected by MCAS, and how do hormones influence symptoms?
RESOURCES
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) represents one of medicine’s most complex and frequently misunderstood conditions. Learn why MCAS is often missed or misdiagnosed, how mast cells drive multi system chronic illness, and more.
“Gut motility is one of the most important pieces of how the body functions. If things aren’t moving, toxins can’t leave the body — which increases inflammation and can drive symptoms.”
Dr. Jen Sugden
Expert Bios

Jamie Kunkle, ND
Dr. Kunkle has a diverse skill set including Lyme/infectious disease, autoimmunity, environmental medicine, pain management, hormone regulation, metabolic/weight loss optimization, and neuropsychiatric conditions to name a few. Dr. Kunkle is skilled in low dose immunotherapy and low dose antigen therapy for treatment of allergies, is trained in hyperbaric oxygen therapies, botanical medicine including Chinese herbs, and intravenous/intramuscular nutrition.

Jen Sugden, ND
Dr. Sugden is a licensed Naturopath in both Oregon and California. Although it can be a cliche in this field to say that she treats the whole person, mind, body, spirit - that is exactly what she does. She is very well versed in infertility, prenatal care, and postnatal care and how it may relate to Lyme and tickborne illness. She has focused on chronic complex illness over the past 11 years and has enjoyed the challenge of these cases.

Jenny Nelson, ND
Dr. Jenny Nelson is a licensed naturopathic physician (ND). Her central belief is that doctors can empower patients to heal through an educational, supportive relationship. The holistic approach that is at the heart of her medicine brings patients closer to their health and life goals. It is a practice and outlook that values not only the physical, but the mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health as well.
meet the hosts
Eric Gordon, MD & Nafysa Parpia, ND
Dr. Gordon, Founder and Medical Director at Gordon Medical, and Dr. Nafysa Parpia, Director of Naturopathic Medicine, draw on over 50 years of combined clinical experience to share their unique, multifaceted approach to understanding and treating complex chronic conditions.
As hosts of this innovative platform, they are driven by their commitment to educate and empower both practitioners and patients, fostering crucial conversations about the complexities of modern illness that haven't found answers through conventional medical pathways.
Transcript
Access Groundbreaking Conversations in Chronic Illness Care
The Gordon Medical Forum connects you with innovative physicians, researchers, and therapeutic specialists exploring the complexities of modern illness. Join our list to receive invitations to upcoming live workshops, masterclasses, and online events.
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About Gordon Medical Associates
As the premier clinic for Lyme disease, tick-borne illnesses, and environmentally acquired illnesses on the West Coast, we’ve earned a reputation as the go-to destination for those seeking answers and solutions.
Our clinic serves as a sought-after think tank for complex and chronic illnesses, where cutting-edge research and compassionate care converge to provide unparalleled support for our patients.
