Dr. Jacob Panka, ND, MS
Naturopathic Doctor | Minnesota | Neuroendocrine, Cardiovascular and Whole-Body Health
Hi, I’m Dr. Jacob Panka. I am a licensed naturopathic doctor with advanced training in neuroscience and integrative medicine research. My work focuses on the intersection of brain health, hormones, digestion, and cardiometabolic wellness. These are the systems that most often influence fatigue, inflammation, and persistent symptoms that traditional care has not fully explained.
My practice provides a more personal and concierge-level healthcare experience. Patients consistently tell me they value how clearly I explain what is happening in their bodies and how confident they feel once they finally understand the reasons behind their symptoms. When you work with me, you will experience care that is unrushed, collaborative, and grounded in both science and real-world practicality.
My Philosophy of Care
I believe excellent healthcare is built on clarity, connection, and truly individualized treatment. No two patients have the same history or the same reasons for why their bodies are not functioning as they should.
My approach rests on three guiding principles:
1. Clarity
I translate complex physiology into language that feels simple and empowering. You deserve to understand what your symptoms are telling us and what your body needs.
2. Evidence-Informed Natural Medicine
Your treatment plan is created using comprehensive testing, clinical experience, and the best of natural and integrative therapies. Plans may include nutrition strategies, botanical medicine, targeted supplementation, and lifestyle adjustments that match your life and values.
3. Partnership
You are an active participant in the process. We make decisions together. My goal is to create a plan that fits your pace, goals, and daily life so your progress becomes realistic and sustainable.
Where I Can Help You Most
Below are the areas where patients most often seek my expertise.
Brain & Neuroendocrine Health
Fatigue, Focus, Stress Resilience, Hormonal Balance
My neuroscience background allows me to evaluate symptoms that sit at the crossroads of brain and endocrine function. Many patients arrive feeling drained from the moment they wake up and describe difficulty getting their minds or bodies to “turn on.” Others feel overwhelmed, foggy, or stuck in a cycle of stress and hormonal shifts that affect every part of their day.
Supporting patients in rebuilding morning energy and restoring a healthy rhythm is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.
I have helped individuals with long-standing migraines find meaningful relief by examining neurological patterns alongside hormone signaling. Patients recovering from concussions or dealing with persistent cognitive symptoms often improve once we identify factors that previous evaluations have not addressed.
Cardiovascular Health
Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Inflammation, Heart Rhythm Support
Your heart reflects the health of your entire system. I take a whole-person and functional approach to cardiovascular concerns, including elevated blood pressure, difficult cholesterol patterns, inflammation, and arrhythmia-related symptoms.
Many patients are able to safely reduce certain medications after implementing focused natural strategies. Small and consistent changes often lead to significant improvements over time.
Gastrointestinal Health
Heartburn, IBS, Bloating, Digestive Pain
Digestive symptoms influence far more than mealtimes. They affect comfort, confidence, work, mood, and overall energy. Many patients have been told that their digestive testing is “normal,” even though they continue to feel unwell.
A breakthrough often occurs once we examine the digestive system holistically. Factors such as motility, microbiome health, inflammation, stress load, and dietary patterns work together, and understanding their interaction allows us to create an accurate and effective plan.
Men's Health
Hormones, Energy, Vitality, Aging Performance
Men often tell me they put off seeking care because they did not feel heard or did not have a comfortable place to talk about what was changing in their bodies. Whether you are noticing shifts in energy, motivation, strength, focus, or hormonal balance, I offer a straightforward and supportive environment where these concerns can be addressed with confidence and clarity.
Many of my male patients say they appreciate having a physician who listens closely, explains what their symptoms mean, and helps them create a plan that feels both realistic and effective. Together, we can optimize your health so you can feel stronger, clearer, and more capable in your daily life.
Athletic Performance & Recovery
Strength, Endurance, Recovery, Injury Prevention
As a former athlete, I understand the balance between pushing physical limits and protecting long-term health. I help recreational and competitive athletes enhance performance, recover more effectively, and avoid injury.
By combining physiology, nutrition, recovery science, and targeted support, we can optimize your performance while protecting the long-term integrity of your body.
What to Expect When You Work With Me
Free Introductory Call
A short conversation where you can share your goals and determine whether my approach feels like the right fit.
A Thorough Two-Hour Initial Consultation
This extended visit allows us to examine your full health history, symptoms, lab findings, and long-term patterns. It is essential for uncovering root causes and creating a plan that is clear, personalized, and effective.
Comprehensive and Individualized Treatment Plans
Your treatment plan will be designed specifically for your physiology, health goals, and daily lifestyle. You will always understand why we are choosing each step.
Take Your First Step
If you are ready for healthcare that is thoughtful, comprehensive, and fully personalized, I invite you to schedule an introductory call. Together, we will explore how naturopathic and integrative medicine can help you move toward clarity, energy, and lasting wellness.
I look forward to being part of your health journey.
Testimonials
More about Dr. Jacob
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Registered Naturopathic Doctor by the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice
Licensed Naturopathic Doctor by the Naturopathic Medicine Examining Board of Wisconsin
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Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, National University of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR
Master of Science in Integrative Medicine Research, Helfgott Research Institute, National University of Natural Medicine, Portland, OR
Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience, Oberlin College, Oberlin, OH
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Anxiety and Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Mutation Treated With S-Adenosyl Methionine and Methylated B Vitamins in Integrative Medicine: A Clinician's Journal
Health Alerts for Eden Prairie Spring Water
The Best Form of Zinc for Added Benefits by Michele Wojciechowski in Chiropractic Economics
Tips for Reducing Stress at Home from a Naturopathic Doctor by Northwestern Health Sciences University
Why You Should Take a Magnesium Supplement by Joel Hoekstra in Mpls St Paul Magazine
What’s Your Gut Feeling? by Jamie Korf in Mpls St Paul Magazine
Naturopathic Medicine Provides a Holistic Approach to Health
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Member of the Minnesota Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Member of the Minnesota Holistic Medicine Group
Member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Member of the Institute for Natural Medicine