# Yost Wellness Center > Yost Wellness Center is a functional medicine clinic in Urbandale, Iowa, founded in 2004 by Dr. Heather Yost (D.C., C.F.M.P.). The practice uses a "Whole Systems Approach" to uncover and treat the root causes of chronic health conditions rather than masking symptoms with medication, serving patients throughout the greater Des Moines metro area and nationwide via telehealth. This file contains the full primary content of yostwellnesscenter.com, organized for language models. It covers the practice overview and team, the chronic conditions treated, in-clinic services, online health evaluations, new-patient information, fees, and contact details. **Quick facts** - **Founded:** 2004 - **Founder:** Dr. Heather Yost, D.C., C.F.M.P. — author, educator, Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner and Doctor of Chiropractic - **Approach:** Functional Medicine / "Whole Systems Approach"; Dr. Yost's proprietary 5 Point Treatment Program; "test, don't guess" - **Address:** 3993 100th Street, Urbandale, IA 50322 - **Clinic hours:** Monday–Thursday, 9:30am–5:30pm - **Phone:** (515) 278-4325 | **Text:** 855-696-9070 - **Email:** Info@YostWellnessCenter.com - **Booking:** Free 30-minute consultation (in-office or virtual) - **Telehealth:** Available nationwide, with lab sites across the United States --- ## Practice Overview ### Our History Founded in 2004, Yost Wellness Center in Urbandale, Iowa, has helped thousands of patients regain their health and vitality. Led by author, educator, and founder Dr. Heather Yost (D.C., C.F.M.P.), the team aims to provide an environment of hope and well-being for each patient. The center describes its mission as leading a "Wellness Revolution" — advancing a new model of health care that pioneers cutting-edge treatments while utilizing Functional Medicine, putting the patient in charge of their own health and vitality. ### Our Approach The clinic uses natural vitamins, minerals, herbs, and specific dietary changes to restore the body to optimal levels, strengthen the immune system, and increase energy. It specializes in helping patients with hypothyroidism, adrenal fatigue, digestive disorders, depression/anxiety, and hormone imbalances using Dr. Yost's proprietary 5 Point Treatment Program. A core differentiator is listening to patients rather than relying on a "treat-by-numbers" approach focused only on lab tests and diagnoses. ### What Makes Us Different Yost Wellness Center looks at the whole person rather than a collection of independent organs and systems. Using science-based Functional Medicine, the team works to uncover the root cause of chronic illness — the "why" behind a patient's suffering — rather than simply prescribing drugs to mask symptoms. The philosophy is "test and never guess": testing may include comprehensive blood panels, holistic lab testing, and genetic testing to find imbalances. Treatment relies on targeted lifestyle changes, nutritionally balanced eating, and customized supplement programs to restore function while reducing symptoms and the need for medication. A first step is to schedule a free consultation or take an Online Health Evaluation. ### Meet the Team - **Dr. Heather Yost, DC, CFMP — CEO & Founder.** A Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner and Doctor of Chiropractic. Born and raised in Elk Horn, Iowa, she earned a Bachelor's in Exercise and Sports Science from Iowa State University, then a Doctorate in Chiropractic and a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology from Logan College of Chiropractic. She pursued extensive post-graduate training in Functional Medicine, Nutrition, Acupuncture, Pregnancy & Pediatrics, and Women's Hormone Health, and has helped patients for over two decades by addressing root causes rather than symptoms. - **Dr. Meghan Knutson, DC, CFMP — Director Doctor.** Earned her Doctorate in Chiropractic, a Master's in Nutrition and Human Performance, and a Bachelor's in Human Biology from Logan University, and is certified in Acupuncture. She now focuses exclusively on Functional Medicine, combining evidence-based science with a whole-body, personalized approach. - **Dr. Mariah Lyle, DC, CFMP — Functional Medicine Practitioner.** Born and raised in Keota, Iowa, she earned a Bachelor's in Biology (minor in Dance) from the University of Northern Iowa and a Doctorate in Chiropractic from Logan University. She blends nutrition, hormones, and the mind-body connection into a personalized, results-driven approach. - **Olivia Whisler, RN — Functional Medicine Practitioner.** Trained through the Institute for Functional Medicine, with nutrition coursework at the University of Western States and clinical training at Mercy College of Health Sciences. She focuses on evidence-based, personalized care plans rooted in biochemistry and nutrition science. - **Amber Nemechek — Red Light Therapy Case Manager / Phlebotomist** - **Britney Nixon — Office Manager** - **Quinn Ault — Patient Advocate** - **Huda Wennerstrom — Patient Advocate** - **Ben Yost — Business Development.** Holds a Bachelor's in Business Administration and Marketing from Iowa State University and an MBA from Drake University. A former commercial lender, he became a Functional Medicine client in 2016 after discovering he had Hashimoto's, and now advocates for Functional Medicine across the Des Moines metro. He is married to Dr. Heather Yost. --- ## Health Conditions ### Adrenal Fatigue Adrenal fatigue is the common name for a set of symptoms resulting from the adrenal glands being worked to exhaustion. The adrenal glands produce cortisol, DHEA, aldosterone, and adrenaline — hormones that help the body adapt to stress. In most cases, adrenal fatigue is secondary to other underlying issues such as chronic hidden inflammation. **Common triggers of chronic stress:** dysbiosis (bacterial imbalance in the gut), food sensitivities, chemical sensitivities, chronic pain, blood sugar issues (reactive hypoglycemia and diabetes), and poor relationships. Under chronic stress, the systems needed for rest, repair, and digestion shut down. **Common symptoms:** tired for no reason; trouble getting up in the morning; reliance on caffeine or energy drinks; cravings for salty or sweet snacks; trouble falling or staying asleep; chronic allergies; getting sick often (or never); poor memory and concentration; depression; menstrual irregularities; chronic pain; slow healing; easy bruising; and an inability to handle stress. **Treatment:** As functional medicine providers, the team works to find the underlying cause of the stress response, explains why the patient feels unwell, and teaches strategies to conquer adrenal fatigue and restore vitality. ### Autoimmune Disease An autoimmune disease is a condition where the body's immune system attacks healthy cells. These diseases can be "systemic" (affecting multiple organs) or "localized" (one organ). There are more than 80 types; common examples include rheumatoid arthritis, Celiac disease, multiple sclerosis, Type 1 diabetes, and Hashimoto's. **Example conditions and symptoms:** - *Celiac disease:* abdominal pain, fatigue, diarrhea, heartburn/indigestion, nausea, vomiting. - *Multiple sclerosis:* cramping, difficulty walking, muscle weakness, fatigue, dizziness, poor balance/vertigo, blurred or double vision. - *Rheumatoid arthritis:* stiffness, swelling, tenderness, weakness, fatigue, dry mouth. - *Hashimoto's:* hair loss, dry skin, constipation, depression, joint stiffness, puffy eyes, weight gain. - *Type 1 diabetes:* excessive thirst and hunger, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, dry mouth. **Treatment:** Improving digestive function helps improve autoimmune conditions. Food elimination/reintroduction is described as the least expensive and most powerful therapeutic tool available. Care often begins with a whole-food, low-glycemic-load (low sugar/flour), phytonutrient-dense diet, plus nutritional support to calm the immune response and improve gut health. ### Diabetes Diabetes occurs when the body either doesn't make enough insulin or can't use its own insulin properly. Insulin allows cells to absorb glucose for energy; with diabetes, sugar builds up in the blood, liver, and fat. Untreated, it can lead to heart disease, blindness, kidney failure, and limb amputation. **Types of blood sugar disorders:** - *Prediabetes:* higher-than-normal blood sugar, usually a precursor to Type 2; often no symptoms. - *Type 1 ("juvenile onset"):* the immune system destroys pancreatic cells; daily insulin required. - *Type 2 ("adult onset"):* the body makes too little insulin or can't use it; managed with diet, exercise, and sometimes insulin. - *Gestational:* develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after delivery. **Common symptoms:** increased thirst, hunger, and urination; unexplained weight loss; sudden vision changes; tingling/numbness in hands or feet; very dry skin; and slow-healing sores. **Hidden causes of Type 2 diabetes** the clinic investigates: diagnosed or undiagnosed thyroid issues, food sensitivities, adrenal insufficiency, poor liver function, environmental toxins, and inflammation. **Treatment:** Rather than treating symptoms, the clinic evaluates all organ and body-system functions to find the root cause and provide targeted treatment. The page notes that research shows the right approach can, in some cases, reverse Type 2 diabetes in as little as three weeks, with some patients able to safely stop medication. (Individual results vary.) ### Hormone Imbalance The body uses hormones to coordinate digestion, metabolism, appetite, sleep, immune activation, reproduction, and tissue repair. When an organ or gland becomes weak or damaged, the entire hormonal system can spiral out of balance — which is why some people feel unwell despite good diet and exercise. **Common causes:** medication side effects, high cortisol from stress, food sensitivities, antioxidant deficiencies, toxins and hormone-disrupting chemicals, and parasites/yeast/bacterial overgrowth. **Symptoms:** continual weight gain despite diet and exercise, fatigue, abnormal menstrual cycle, digestive problems, loss of sex drive, and brain fog, anxiety, depression, or sleeplessness. **Treatment:** No two hormone imbalances are alike, so the clinic tailors a clinically proven, step-by-step approach. Treatments can include diet, exercise, stress management, natural hormone therapies, and herbal therapies, plus complementary options such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and chiropractic care. ### Leaky Gut Leaky gut occurs when gaps develop between the cells of the intestinal lining, allowing substances that should stay in the digestive tract to "leak" into the bloodstream. The immune system attacks these substances as foreign invaders, causing inflammation that accumulates over time. Untreated, it can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and certain cancers. **Causes:** toxins, alcohol, medications such as antibiotics, stress, excess weight, food sensitivities, lack of vitamin D, lack of exercise, and poor diet — particularly the heavily processed Standard American Diet (SAD). Research also implicates grains such as wheat. **Common symptoms** (often seemingly unrelated to digestion): fatigue, anxiety, or depression; sinus and allergy problems; weight gain, obesity, and Type 2 diabetes; chronic fatigue syndrome; joint pain and fibromyalgia; gas, bloating, and abdominal pain (IBS); autoimmune diseases (Crohn's, Celiac, eczema, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto's); skin, hair, and nail issues; heart disease and high cholesterol; and hormonal issues such as PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, and low testosterone. **Testing:** The clinic offers a Food Sensitivity Panel measuring reactions to nearly 100 foods. A positive result indicates the immune system is producing antibodies to foods leaking through the gut wall — not a classic allergy. Many foods can be reintroduced once the gut is healed. Follow-up testing is available, and the clinic participates in national food-sensitivity research. **Treatment:** Assessment through history and diagnostic tests (gluten sensitivity, gut inflammation, parasites, yeast), followed by aggressive treatment of causes including SIBO, yeast overgrowth, parasites, and worms. Healing uses digestive enzymes, prebiotics, probiotics, and repair nutrients such as zinc, omega-3 fats, GLA, glutamine, and anti-inflammatory botanicals like quercetin and turmeric, often alongside a four-week elimination diet with reintroduction. ### Prediabetes Prediabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet high enough for a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis. It often shows no obvious symptoms but signals that insulin regulation isn't working properly. With the right lifestyle changes, it is reversible. **Risk factors:** age (risk rises after 45), family history of Type 2 diabetes, obesity (especially abdominal), physical inactivity, an unhealthy diet, certain ethnicities (African American, Hispanic, Native American, and Asian populations are at higher risk), high blood pressure or cholesterol, and a history of gestational diabetes. **Possible symptoms:** increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing sores — though many people have none. **Diagnosis (three blood tests):** - *Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG):* 100–125 mg/dL indicates prediabetes. - *Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT):* 140–199 mg/dL signals prediabetes. - *A1C:* 5.7%–6.4% indicates prediabetes. **Management:** Lifestyle changes that improve insulin sensitivity — a high-fiber, whole-food diet with limited sugar and refined carbs; at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week; modest weight loss (5–7% of body weight); 7–8 hours of sleep with stress management; and, in some cases, medication such as metformin. Studies cited show lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of progressing to Type 2 diabetes by up to 58%. ### Thyroid Conditions Thyroid problems are among the most common hormonal disorders, affecting more than 20 million Americans. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck that produces hormones controlling metabolism and heart rate. **Top signs it may be your thyroid:** 1. Weight gain despite a healthy diet and exercise. 2. Fatigue and/or poor sleep (the thyroid and adrenal glands work together to support energy). 3. Depression, mood swings, brain fog, and lack of motivation. 4. Other symptoms: poor digestion/constipation, sinus or allergy problems, heavy periods, headaches/migraines, low body temperature, decreased libido, heart palpitations, blood sugar spikes, aches and pains, thinning hair, dry skin, and brittle nails. **Root cause and testing:** Most experts agree Hashimoto's — an autoimmune disorder where the body attacks the thyroid — is the No. 1 cause of hypothyroidism. The clinic stresses that advanced lab tests for autoimmune antibodies are the most important tests a patient can have, because the typical treatment (synthetic T4 such as Levothyroxine or Synthroid) does nothing to address the autoimmune cause. The clinic reports finding Hashimoto's in two of every three patients it tests who are already taking thyroid medication. When Hashimoto's is present, the team treats the immune system rather than just the thyroid. **Why problems go undiagnosed:** Standard testing often measures only T4, Free T4, and TSH, with a TSH "normal" range (.45–4.5 mIU/L) the clinic considers too broad. About 95% of prescription thyroid medications are synthetic T4, which must convert to the more active T3 — and standard tests typically don't measure T3. The clinic offers advanced thyroid testing that goes beyond TSH and T4 to evaluate the whole body and address the true cause. --- ## Services & Treatments ### Red Light Therapy Red light therapy offers a calming, head-to-toe experience intended to support relief, recovery, and vitality. The clinic positions it as a complement to balanced nutrition and regular movement to help manage weight, target stubborn areas, and support energy and sleep. **Reported benefits:** small but measurable reductions in waist and hip circumference in some studies (when paired with healthy routines); support for healthy cellular energy and metabolism; and a more relaxed evening with steadier daytime rhythm to support appetite regulation. (Individual outcomes differ; red light therapy is not intended to diagnose or treat medical conditions.) **Who it's used for:** weight loss for men and women; military readiness and families; sports recovery; chronic pain and arthritis; insomnia and chronic fatigue; and overworked professionals. **The process (4 steps):** (1) Welcome — discuss goals and map a plan; (2) Relaxation — about 15 minutes in an advanced Dahlia Red Light Bed; (3) Custom Plan — an easy-to-follow plan matched to the patient's lifestyle; (4) Track Progress — the plan adapts at each milestone. **The science:** Photobiomodulation, in which red and near-infrared light stimulates cellular activity and ATP production, using targeted wavelengths of 630, 660, 850, and 940 nanometers. **New Patient Special:** A complete session for $49 (regular price $299), featuring the premium Prism Light Pod. Call 515-278-4325 or text 855-696-9070 for more information. ### Styku 3D Body Composition Analysis (Weight Loss) The Styku 3D Body Composition Scan uses infrared technology to capture detailed measurements of the body's shape, posture, and proportions in seconds — going beyond what a standard scale offers. It analyzes shifts in body composition, balance, and symmetry, with progress monitored visually and through precise metrics over time. The scan involves no radiation and no physical contact, making it safe to repeat regularly. **Key features:** high-accuracy body data beyond the scale; a detailed 3D model that visually tracks change; non-invasive infrared scanning; and consistent, repeatable data to support personalized wellness, fitness, and metabolic plans. **FAQ highlights:** the scan provides body measurements, circumference tracking, posture insights, and 3D models; it takes roughly one minute with near-immediate results; it is safe to repeat because it uses no radiation; and it evaluates body shape and composition trends rather than weight alone. --- ## Online Health Evaluations The clinic offers free instant online evaluations to help identify which body systems may be driving a patient's health issues. Available evaluations: - **Brain Health Evaluation** — assesses brain-chemistry imbalances affecting mood, energy, concentration, and sleep (e.g., headaches, ADHD/ADD, depression, anxiety, brain fog, sleeplessness, low energy). https://yostwellnesscenter.com/health-evaluations/brain-health-evaluation - **Digestive Health Evaluation** — identifies which part of the digestive system may be responsible for symptoms such as heartburn, gas, or bloating. https://yostwellnesscenter.com/health-evaluations/digestive-system-health-evaluation - **Hormone Health Evaluation (Male)** — for symptoms such as low energy, reduced muscle strength, decreased sex drive, trouble sleeping, or unexplained weight gain. https://yostwellnesscenter.com/health-evaluations/hormone-health-evaluation-male - **Hormone Health Evaluation (Female)** — for symptoms such as migraines, heavy periods, or unexplained weight gain. https://yostwellnesscenter.com/health-evaluations/hormone-health-evaluation-female - **Comprehensive Evaluation (Male)** — reviews the nervous, hormone, digestive, and detoxification systems for patients with multiple symptoms. https://yostwellnesscenter.com/health-evaluations/comprehensive-evaluation-male - **Comprehensive Evaluation (Female)** — same four-system review for female patients with multiple symptoms. https://yostwellnesscenter.com/health-evaluations/comprehensive-evaluation-female Evaluations overview: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/health-evaluations --- ## New Patient Information & FAQs **Getting started:** Schedule a free consultation or take an Online Health Evaluation to discover which body systems may be causing health issues. **The consultation:** Available virtually or in-office (in-office preferred), lasting about 20–30 minutes. The team reviews any previous lab work, discusses primary health concerns, and advises on next steps. **Next step after the consultation:** Most patients are recommended a comprehensive blood test evaluating over 70 biomarkers across the body's primary organ systems. The doctor may also recommend additional testing — such as a stool test, hormone test, food sensitivity test, or in-depth nutritional test — depending on the patient's case and goals. **Report of Findings appointment:** The team reviews test results, clarifies goals and expectations, and ensures all questions are answered before care begins. Patients are encouraged to bring a spouse or partner. **No pressure to start care:** Patients are never obligated to pursue any treatment option. **Insurance:** Medical insurance does not pay for care based on supplements and dietary changes; operating outside insurance allows the clinic to treat patients naturally and effectively. FSA and HSA funds can be used in most cases (patients should confirm with their plan coordinator). **Fees:** - 30-minute initial consultation: $0 - Initial testing: prices vary, typically about $425 - 2nd visit (Report of Findings): free with testing **Payment plans:** Monthly payment plans and CareCredit are available; CareCredit offers up to 12 months at 0% interest (apply online or call 800-365-8295). **Out-of-area patients:** Telehealth is available nationwide, with lab sites across the U.S., customized one-on-one programs, virtual meetings, and shipped materials. **New patient forms:** - Confidential Patient Information: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/forms/confidential-patient-information - Medical Release Information: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/forms/medical-release-information - Wellness Re-Evaluation: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/forms/wellness-re-evaluation --- ## Contact & Location - **Address:** 3993 100th Street, Urbandale, IA 50322 - **Clinic hours:** Monday–Thursday, 9:30am–5:30pm - **Phone:** (515) 278-4325 - **Text:** 855-696-9070 - **Email:** Info@YostWellnessCenter.com - **Schedule a free consultation:** https://yostwellnesscenter.md-hq.com/embedded/schedule.php - **Patient Portal:** https://yostwellnesscenter.md-hq.com/ **Social media:** - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YostWellnessCenter/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yostwellnesscenter/ - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgiHG4HJFA8YM7NSO-9_CRA - Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/drheatheryost - LinkedIn (Dr. Heather Yost): https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-heather-yost-39744715 --- ## Service Areas Yost Wellness Center provides functional medicine to patients across central Iowa, with dedicated pages for each community: - Altoona: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/functional-medicine-altoona - Ames: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/functional-medicine-ames - Ankeny: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/functional-medicine-ankeny-iowa - Boone: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/boone - Clive: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/functional-medicine-clive-iowa - Des Moines: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/functional-medicine-des-moines - Grinnell: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/functional-medicine-grinnell - Indianola: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/functional-medicine-indianola - Johnston: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/johnston - Marshalltown: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/functional-medicine-marshalltown - Newton: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/functional-medicine-newton - Pella: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/functional-medicine-pella - Urbandale: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/functional-medicine-urbandale - West Des Moines: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/service-area/functional-medicine-west-des-moines --- ## Additional Resources - About Us: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/about - Testimonials: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/testimonials - Blog: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/blog - Recipes: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/recipes - Supplements: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/supplements - Recommended Products: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/products - Workshops: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/workshops - Webinars: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/webinars - Forms: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/forms - New Patient Paperwork Video: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/new-patient-paperwork-video - Request a Consultation: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/request-for-a-consultation ## Legal - Privacy Policy: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/privacy-policy - Disclaimer: https://yostwellnesscenter.com/disclaimer --- *Medical disclaimer: The content above reflects information published by Yost Wellness Center and is provided for general informational purposes. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results vary. Consult a qualified healthcare provider about any medical condition.*