Question 1

What I Do

Accepted Answer

For the majority of my career, I have been practicing family medicine. However, over the last five years, I have shifted my focus towards gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, food sensitivities, and dysbiosis, as well as endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, hormonal imbalances in women, low testosterone in men, and PCOS. In 2021, I became board certified in endocrinology. I have observed the significant impact that modern-day stress has on our collective well-being. Factors such as poor nutrition, a sedentary lifestyle, lack of sleep, and heightened emotional stress can have unique effects on the gut and hormones, which serve as signaling molecules that direct our cells' responses. Our microbiome and hormones play a critical role in instructing our cells to either fight or flee from a stressful situation, or to regulate our metabolism and reproductive function. As we age and endure prolonged periods of stress, our hormone production and receptor sensitivity decrease, and our gut bacteria become less diverse, significantly affecting our overall resilience. Since we are at our hormonal peak in our 20s, we can often endure all-nighters and push our bodies to the max, but as we age, we need to optimize our microbiome and hormones to maintain a healthy lifestyle with minimal reliance on medication. I prioritize teaching individuals how to optimize their microbiome and hormone levels, providing replacement strategies only when necessary.

Question 2

My Why

Accepted Answer

It is my belief that many of us strive to make a positive impact within our families and communities. Personally, my passion lies in empowering individuals to understand their bodies better. Equipping individuals with the necessary knowledge and offering support and guidance in implementing lifestyle changes can lead to inspiring results. Unfortunately, there is an abundance of misleading and even harmful information circulating within the health and medical industry. Deciphering the vast array of research and anecdotal information can be challenging, even for those with expertise and training. However, I am here to provide clarity and, more importantly, to help you customize this information to meet your specific needs.

Question 3

What to Expect From Me

Accepted Answer

Prior to your initial visit, you will complete a comprehensive and holistic intake questionnaire that delves beyond your primary concerns, exploring multiple systems to provide a comprehensive understanding of potential obstacles and contributing factors. I will review this information before our meeting to ensure that our time together is as efficient as possible. During our visit, we will discuss options such as lab testing and various protocols moving forward. Please note that I tend to order extensive lab panels and provide detailed treatment plans. Although this may seem overwhelming at first due to the volume of information, I am here to guide you every step of the way, helping you to decipher the information and implement practical changes. Typically, I treat chronic issues and work in three-month segments. Once we have reviewed the lab results together and established the appropriate treatment protocol, I will provide a plan for you to follow over the next three months. We will check in as often as needed during this time, making any minor adjustments necessary. After three months, we will retest or evaluate your symptoms together to determine if we are making progress. If not, I will adjust your treatment plan, and we will continue for another three months. For most chronic issues, I encourage patients to continue working with me for six to twelve months. If, however, I am unable to help you achieve your desired health outcomes, I am happy to refer you to another provider.

Question 4

What I Expect from You

Accepted Answer

During our treatment plan discussion, your input is crucial in determining what is feasible for you to accomplish based on your current stage of life, stresses, and responsibilities. However, once we establish a plan, I do expect you to commit to it and make a sincere effort to follow through. Excuses won't cut it. If, for whatever reason, you cannot carry out the plan, that's okay. We can postpone it until you feel ready to take it on again. It's important that you take charge of your health, and I'm here to assist you in any way possible. If we schedule a retest, it's your responsibility to reach out to me for lab orders when the time comes. Ultimately, it's your health and wellbeing that we're working to improve, and I'm here to support you in achieving your goals.

Question 5

Education

Accepted Answer

Board certification in endocrinology Fellow with American Board of Naturopathic Endocrinology 2021 - Present Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine Bastyr University 2004 - 2009 Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology/Biology/Athletic Training East Texas Baptist University 1997 - 2001

Question 6

Clinical Experience

Accepted Answer

Apex Integrative Medicine - Whitefish, MT CEO/Owner 2023 - Present Specializing in endocrine/GI disorders and chronic pain. Modalities utilized: hormone optimization and replacement, prolozone and IV therapy.   Dr. May, ND, LLC - Fairbanks, AK CEO/Owner 2017 - Present A functional medicine practice that is mostly telehealth at this point and limited to current patients and direct referrals. I travel back to Fairbanks every 3-6 months to see patients in person.   Alaska Center for Natural Medicine - Fairbanks, AK Physician, Asst Medical Director 2014 - 2017 Primary care with emphasis in endocrinology and physical medicine/rehabilitation. Oversaw resident physicians and in-house lab. Lead lecturer for Vitamin D Education Project.   Healthcoach 7 - Bothell, WA Lead Physician 2012 - 2014 I was responsible for overseeing nutraceutical and educational material development, as well as lecturing/consulting on a number of innovative health strategies (like epigenomic testing/interpretation).   SageMED - Bellevue, WA Physician 2012 - 2014 Primary care with emphasis in IV therapy and physical medicine/rehabilitation. Included US and C-arm X-ray guided intra-articular injections.   Alaska Center for Natural Medicine - Fairbanks, AK Resident/Physician 2009 - 2012 Primary Care with emphasis in IV therapy and physical medicine/rehabilitation

Question 7

Certifications and Trainings

Accepted Answer

• Ozone and Prolozone (AAOT) - 2023 • Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement (WorldLink Medical) - 2017 and 2019 • Peptide Therapy (A4M) - 2019 • USPA Certified Powerlifting Coach - 2018 • Health Promotion Director Certification (Cooper Institute for Aerobic Research) - 2001 • Master Fitness Specialist (Cooper Institute for Aerobic Research) - 2001 • Indoor Cycling Instructor (Schwinn) - 2002 • Athletic Training (Texas) - 2001

Question 8

Memberships

Accepted Answer

• Institute for Functional Medicine • Endocrinology Association of Naturopathic Physicians - Board Member • International Peptide Society • Montana Association of Naturopathic Physicians • Alaska Association of Naturopathic Physicians

Ashley D. May, ND, FABNE

My Approach

What to Expect

Career Timeline

Apex Integrative Medicine

Board Certification in Endocrinology

Dr. May, ND, LLC

Alaska Center for Natural Medicine

Bastyr University

East Texas Baptist University

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