Episode 131

Published November 25, 2025

In this episode, Dr. Andrew Rostenberg discusses the intricate relationship between neurotransmitters, hormones, and mental health, emphasizing the role of the DUTCH Test in assessing these factors. 

This episode also highlights:

• Hormonal fluctuations and their impact on mood 
• The intricate relationships between detoxification, gut health, hormones, and neurotransmitters 
• The bell curve model to explain neurotransmitter levels, particularly dopamine and estrogen and their influence on mental well-being
• The critical role of cortisol in overall health 
• The value of DUTCH testing in understanding hormonal and neurotransmitter interactions

Key Moments

0:00 Podcast Introduction

2:31 Introduction to Neurotransmitters and Mental Health

5:23 The Bell Curve Model of Neurotransmitters

8:44 Estrogen's Role in Dopamine Regulation

11:20 Hormonal Fluctuations and Mood Changes

14:26 Understanding Catecholamine Markers

17:40 The Importance of MTHFR and COMT in Neurotransmitter Balance

20:40 The Impact of Gut Health on Hormonal Balance

26:10 Updates to the DUTCH Report

27:15 The Impact of Gut Health on Hormonal Balance (cont'd)

30:08 The Importance of Detoxification and Gut Health

33:56 The Role of Microbiome in Hormone Balance

36:15 Understanding Male Hormones and Dopamine Levels

41:24 Catecholamines and Their Impact on Mood

46:25 Cortisol's Role in Hormonal Health

48:42 Integrating DUTCH Testing in Clinical Practice

52:51 Closing Thoughts and Resources

About our speaker

Andrew Rostenberg, DC, DIBAK , is a chiropractor, kinesiologist, functional medicine expert, methylation researcher, author, and director of Red Mountain Natural Medicine in Boise, ID. In addition to running a busy practice, Dr. Rostenberg has developed cutting-edge protocols using methylation pathways designed to optimize biochemistry, detoxification, digestion, brain function and more. He is the founder of BeyondMTHFR © , a leading voice in the emerging field of functional medicine and genetics, raising awareness of how genetic variation impacts our health. He is also the author of Your Genius Body, a book designed to help connect the dots between genetics, gut health and optimized brain function.

Show Notes

Learn more about Dr. Rostenberg’s practice and his coaching program, WellPower. Follow him on Instagram @dr.rostenberg!

Become a DUTCH Provider to gain access to free educational resources, expert clinical support, comprehensive patient reports, and peer-reviewed and validated research.

Disclaimer: Special offer of 50% OFF first five kits is invalid 60 days after new provider registration.