Presented by Dan Kalish, DC, IFMCP | September 22, 2026 at 12 PM Pacific

Butyrate production requires a chain of organisms in the gut, some break down fiber, others produce hydrogen and a third group clears the hydrogen that would otherwise stall the whole process. When short-chain fatty acids come back low on a stool test, the number tells you the ecosystem isn't working, but not where it broke. This session walks through how the cycle works, how to read SCFA results alongside the Dysbiosis Index, what that index really measures, and which interventions actually move it.

Learning Objectives:

• Explain how fiber becomes butyrate and feeds into a cycle of GI bacteria production
• Describe the microbial hydrogen cycle and its role in the gut microbiome
• Interpret SCFA patterns in stool testing
• Identify the Dysbiosis Index and how it relates to additional findings, including GI pathogens
• Differentiate dietary strategies including soluble fiber, resistant starch, polyphenols, prebiotic powders, and supplemental butyrate and their effects on the gut microbiome

Presented by Jeannie Gorman, MS, CCN | October 7, 2026 at 12 PM Pacific

Hair analysis provides a noninvasive matrix for evaluating longer-term patterns of exposure to toxic elements and the status of selected essential elements. This presentation will provide clinicians with an evidence-informed and practical overview of the clinical utility of hair element analysis, including how elements are incorporated into hair, factors that can influence results, and appropriate interpretation of findings. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of what hair analysis can, and cannot indicate, and how to distinguish clinically meaningful findings from results requiring additional context or confirmation.

Participants will also explore DDI's methodology for hair element testing, including specimen collection, preparation, analytical technology, reference ranges, and quality considerations. The session will address common environmental, occupational, dietary, and supplemental sources of elemental exposure, as well as the appropriate clinical applications and limitations of hair testing. Attendees will leave with a practical framework for integrating hair element results with patient history and exposure assessment to support appropriate clinical correlation, follow-up testing, and informed patient management.

Learning Objectives:

• Explain the biological basis and rationale for using hair as a matrix for elemental assessment.
• Evaluate hair element results within the context of laboratory methodology, reference ranges, specimen collection, and potential sources of variability.
• Differentiate findings that may warrant clinical consideration from those requiring confirmation or additional context.
• Recognize when follow-up testing or additional exposure assessment may be appropriate.