Get to Know the TL Team: Lauren DeDecker

Meet Lauren Dedecker, a dedicated Internal Medicine resident physician with a unique and inspiring journey to her medical career.

From competitive triathlete to powerlifter, health coach to medical researcher, Lauren's diverse experiences and unwavering passion for holistic health make her an invaluable member of the Transparent Labs team.

In this interview, Lauren shares insights into her path, her passion for nutrition, and her love for Transparent Labs products. 

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your journey to get to where you are now?

I am an Internal Medicine resident physician (about to graduate!) but have taken a winding path to medicine! In college, I was a competitive triathlete and studied Nutrition Science. I went to Nationals for triathlon, but later switched to power lifting due to the stress and wear and tear on my body from Tri.

Post-grad, I wasn't exactly sure what I wanted to do for my career, but knew that I was most passionate about nutrition and preventing disease through diet and lifestyle - my dad passed away from cancer when I was a kid, so that is probably where that desire stems from.

I got very lucky because an amazing primary care doctor in SF hired me as a health coach for his patients! I also got my NASM personal training license and was a PT on the side. I loved my work, but I wanted to be able to integrate my holistic toolbox with Western medicine - something missing in our country!

After a stint at a google glass startup for doctors, I got into medical school where I did research on the gut microbiome and colon cancer. I am now an Internal Medicine physician and I take a holistic approach to all of my patients by combining Western medicine with my knowledge of diet, fitness, and lifestyle interventions.

I am particularly passionate about gut health! I also make evidence-based health education and healthy recipe content on my instagram @DrDeDeck! In my free time, I love to lift weights, swim, cycle, hike, play with my Aussie, try new restaurants, and travel with my husband! 

Why did you choose to partner with TL?

My husband and I have been using Transparent Labs for quite a while now. Despite having tried LITERALLY 30+ protein powder brands, TL continues to be the absolute best. I have very high nutrition and quality standards, and TL meets all of them.

In particular, TL is third party tested for heavy metals and contaminants, tested to verify that it contains what is stated on the label, sweetened with stevia, has ideal macros, and is both versatile and delicious! 

What’s your favorite TL product/flavor and why?

I love the vanilla peanut butter flavored whey! It is super versatile and goes well in all of my smoothies, protein pancakes/waffles, and protein oats!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

That one thing you don't want to do, is probably what you need the most. 

What’s one thing people don’t know about you?

I started a high protein, low carb frozen waffle business but had to drop it for med school! 

What's the number one item on your bucket list?

Get good enough at surfing to get barreled. I love the water.

Do you have any pets? 

Yes, a 2 year old Australian shepherd puppy named Taz!

What would you say is the biggest challenge or obstacle you’ve had to overcome, and how did you do it?

Residency is very challenging, that's a fact for everyone. However, when something else outside of residency goes wrong or is difficult, it doesn't stop or slow down. I got through deep personal challenge in residency through my support system, therapy, breathwork, and exercise. 

What's a piece of knowledge/fact you wish everyone knew?

I know that deep down everyone DOES know this, but as you go through your days, weeks, years, remember that time is precious. You get ONE life and it is happening now. When the end is near and you look back on your life, will you be happy about how you spent your time? Would you change anything? The time is now. 

What does your “perfect” day look like?

A slow morning sipping coffee on the couch, getting outside, getting in a good workout, and spending time with loved ones - what could be better?!

Do you have a favorite quote/philosophy?

Living a healthy life is simple, not easy.

What's your favorite "guilty pleasure" food?

ICE CREAM!

What's your favorite way to unwind/decompress after a long day/week?

Workout. Lifting heavy things ideally, or a hard swim/bike.

Who would you recommend TL products for?

I think just about everyone could benefit from TL's products!

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Lauren DeDecker's journey is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and holistic health. Her dedication to integrating Western medicine with nutrition and lifestyle interventions embodies the values of Transparent Labs. To learn more about Lauren, improve your healthy recipes, understand gut health, and discover lifestyle tips for training and fueling, visit Lauren's Instagram @DrDeDeck.