varostreamPioneering complementary medicine practitioner Dr. Ronald Hoffman takes a cutting-edge approach to health, wellness, and aging. He covers both conventional and alternative modalities, as well as nutrition, exercise, and supplements.
Episodes
Leyla Weighs In: Balancing Budget and Nutrition
Meeting Senior Protein Needs on a Budget and the Role of Butyrate: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin addresses a listener struggling to reach the suggested 20–30 grams of protein per meal on a fixed income, explaining updated guidance of roughly 1–1.2 g/kg/day and offering a simple estimate that 1 ounce of animal protein provides about 6–7 grams. She advises not to force-feed, to be guided by hunger over the week, and to prioritize complete animal proteins over filling up on bread, rice, and beans, especially for seniors concerned about blood sugar. To reduce costs, she recommends shopping at discount stores (e.g., Dollar General, Aldi/Lidl) for eggs, canned fish, bacon, and fatty ground beef, noting non-organic options are preferable to high-starch processed foods. She then discusses short-chain fatty acids (acetate, propionate, butyrate), emphasizing butyrate’s importance for colon energy, barrier integrity, and inflammation, noting it can come from gut fermentation, butter/ghee, and ketosis via beta-hydroxybutyrate.
21:39Q&A with Leyla, Part 1: Chronic Insomnia
Exercise training for bone health Why has my Lipoprotein (a) trended upward in the last 4-5 years? Isn't it genetically determined? I have chronic insomnia, and my doctor told me to avoid any supplements due to my pacemaker/defibrillator
33:54Q&A with Leyla, Part 2: Total Knee Replacement
My husband is getting a total knee replacement. What do you recommend as far as food and supplements for recovery? Can I safely use Xlear nasal spray after getting a stent in one of my arteries? If a person has GERD occasionally, would it be advisable to avoid meat since it is acid-forming? I have a family history of rheumatoid arthritis. How can I prevent this?
35:33The Neuroscience of Loneliness: Unpacking Social Connection, Part 1
Why Brains Need Friends: The Neuroscience of Loneliness, Empathy, and Social Connection. Dr. Ronald Hoffman interviews neuroscientist Dr. Ben Rein about his book, "Why Brains Need Friends," focusing on how loneliness and social isolation affect well-being and health. Rein describes his research on the neurobiology of autism, empathy, and how MDMA enhances empathy via serotonin signaling in the nucleus accumbens, and argues that humans are evolutionarily wired for social reward through oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine. They distinguish objective isolation from subjective loneliness and discuss how isolation can trigger chronic stress responses, elevated cortisol, inflammation, and increased risks including stroke, dementia, heart disease, depression, anxiety, and suicide. Rein explains why digital communication (text, phone, Zoom) is less fulfilling due to reduced social cues and can erode empathy online; offers practical strategies to “level up” interactions from shallow to deep, track one’s social cadence based on introversion/extroversion, and addresses pets, social anxiety treatment, alcohol as a social lubricant, and concerns about robot companions.
30:40The Neuroscience of Loneliness: Unpacking Social Connection, Part 2
Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with neuroscientist Dr. Ben Rein about his book, "Why Brains Need Friends: The Neuroscience of Social Connection."
28:58Building Stronger Bones: Harnessing Exercise for Osteoporosis Reversal, Part 1
Exercise as Medicine for Osteoporosis: Dr. Ronald Hoffman interviews Professor Belinda Beck of Griffith University, a director of The Bone Clinic, and co-founder of ONERO, an award-winning, evidence-based exercise program for osteoporosis. Beck explains bone as living tissue that remodels in response to mechanical loading (Wolff’s Law), arguing much age-related loss reflects insufficient stress and that targeted high-load training can rebuild bone. She contrasts exercise with calcium-only approaches, noting supplementation limits and potential cardiovascular risks, and reviews osteoporosis drugs (bisphosphonates, denosumab/Prolia, PTH analogs, romosozumab/Evenity), including rebound loss after stopping denosumab and microdamage repair issues with antiresorptives; medications don’t prevent falls. Beck describes her “LIFTMOR” trial: twice-weekly, 30-minute supervised high-intensity resistance and impact training for eight months improved spine BMD, produced hip structural strengthening, and improved functional fall-risk measures versus low-intensity controls. ONERO is a standardized, supervised program delivered by trained clinicians, can be additive with medication or hormone therapy, and locations can be found via the ONERO Academy website. More Resources: The ONERO® Summit website (an educational meeting for ONERO® licensees, doctors and patients/the public) The Bone Clinic FB page (for information and important advances in the field of bone health in lay terms)
31:25Building Stronger Bones: Harnessing Exercise for Osteoporosis Reversal, Part 2
Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Belinda Beck, Professor, Griffith University, Director of Research at The Bone Clinic, and founder and director of Onero, an award-winning, evidence-based exercise program for osteoporosis.
36:55Intelligent Medicine Radio for October 24, Part 1: Can eye drops dissolve cataracts?
A quick, 4-minute daily exercise fix for over-65s boosts performance in just 12 weeks; can eye drops dissolve cataracts to forestall surgery? A new motion sickness drug is named after the Greek god who was sailors’ friend; Scientific American highlights mitochondria as key to healthy aging; Urolithin A notches gains for GI and heart health in new studies.
35:25Intelligent Medicine Radio for October 24, Part 2: Which diet scored highest for staving off biological aging?
The biggest mistake GLP-1 weight loss medication users make; Scientists discover link between vitamin C and blood cancers; B12 alone, or taken with a B complex? 10 diets are put to the test, and which scored highest for staving off biological aging? When medications cause constipation; Overcoming fatigue after radiation treatment for cancer.
35:23Leyla Weighs In: Carbs, Protein, and Metabolism--What the Research Really Says
Carbs vs Protein During Exercise: Hormones, Cortisol, and Insulin. Registered dietitian nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses an emailed study request about a 2013 Iranian paper comparing carbohydrate vs protein drinks consumed during resistance exercise in 20 fasted young men. The study found cortisol rose much more in the protein group while insulin rose more in the carbohydrate group, with no significant differences in growth hormone, testosterone, or IGF-1, and it concluded carbohydrates created a “better hormonal environment.” Leyla challenges this interpretation, arguing cortisol’s rise is a normal and useful exercise stress response for muscle breakdown and subsequent repair, while carbohydrate-driven insulin spikes can blunt cortisol and promote fat storage; she also notes methodological limits (drinking during exercise, unclear drink ingredients, low protein dose, and unmeasured amino acids/protein turnover). She recommends exercising fasted, avoiding sweet/starchy intake during and immediately after exercise, hydrating, then eating a protein-focused meal 45–60 minutes post-workout.
21:12Q&A with Leyla, Part 1: Helpful Nutrition for Cancer
Pope Leo's cancer diagnosis and treatment Helpful nutrition for cancer My LDL cholesterol is higher now, but my calcium score is "0". Should I be concerned?
33:26Q&A with Leyla, Part 2: Spinal Stenosis
My husband's homocysteine went up to 15, and he already takes Methyl Action. What else can he take to lower it? I had candida in the past. Is it okay for me to take a supplement that contains baker's yeast? Is there anything I can do to alleviate spinal stenosis? What kind of creatine supplement should I take, and how much to regain muscle strength?
29:56ENCORE: Redefining Movement for Injury-Free Athletics, Part 1
Henry Abbott, former ESPN journalist, basketball expert, and author of the highly anticipated book "Ballistic: The New Science of Injury-Free Athletic Performance," details how advanced biomechanical analysis can help prevent athletic injuries. Abbott explains the significance of movement patterns, particularly how techniques used by elite athletes at the Peak Performance Project (P3) in Santa Barbara can be applied to everyday people. The conversation covers various topics, including plyometrics, the importance of hip stability and mobility, and the potential for new technologies like AI and computer vision to bring these advanced assessments and training techniques to a wider audience. The episode is rich in practical advice for maintaining physical health and mobility through a lifelong commitment to better movement practices.
26:50ENCORE: Redefining Movement for Injury-Free Athletics, Part 2
Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Henry Abbott, former ESPN journalist, basketball expert, and author of "Ballistic: The New Science of Injury-Free Athletic Performance."
30:56Challenging the Status Quo: The Battle for Supplement Access, Part 1
Jonathan Emord on ANH Legal Strategy, FDA Overreach, and the Fight for Health Freedom: Dr. Ronald Hoffman interviews constitutional attorney Jonathan Emord, newly appointed general counsel for the Alliance for Natural Health (ANH), about advancing health freedom and access to truthful information on natural products. Emord recounts his landmark 1999 Pearson v. Shalala victory establishing First Amendment protections for qualified supplement health claims and describes FDA resistance and broader administrative-state dynamics, including Chevron deference and its reversal in Loper Bright v. Raimondo. He argues FDA regulation is economically protectionist, suppressing nutrient-disease information while favoring patented drugs, and cites COVID-era censorship and agency capture via the revolving door. Emord outlines ANH initiatives, including petitions and potential litigation to expand lawful structure/function claims and address restrictions involving peptides, homeopathy, CBD, and natural thyroid, urging listeners to support ANH at anh-usa.org.
35:11Challenging the Status Quo: The Battle for Supplement Access, Part 2
Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with constitutional attorney Jonathan Emord, newly appointed general counsel for the Alliance for Natural Health (ANH).
45:07Intelligent Medicine Radio for October 17, Part 1: The Pope's Lung Cancer
The Pope’s lung cancer diagnosis offers a window on advances in cancer detection, treatment; The supplements I recommend the Pope take to prevent recurrence; Novel injection therapy melts fat cells; Is cholesterol the be-all/end-all for heart risk assessment? Is the new mRNA flu vaccine worth taking?
35:24Intelligent Medicine Radio for October 17, Part 2: Possible Causes of Hip Pain
Humans are hardwired for generosity—but brain rewards are greater for voluntary philanthropy than paying our tax bills; Apple cider vinegar—are benefits real? Loneliness may steal 6 years of good health—but is it inevitable for introverts? Neanderthals may have used birch “glue” for wound healing; The many possible causes of hip pain; Popular pain remedy may yield scant benefits, hike risk of adverse side effects; Solutions for travelers’ constipation.
35:26Leyla Weighs In: Nutrition and Sleep
Post-Workout Nutrition, Antioxidants, and Insomnia’s Health Risks: Leyla Muedin, a registered dietitian in New York City, answers listener questions about post-exercise nutrition, advising against sweet or high-carb foods immediately after workouts because they raise blood sugar and insulin, shift the body back to fat storage mode, and can blunt human growth hormone needed for muscle and bone repair; she suggests protein and fat after morning exercise and saving carbohydrates for later, ideally 3–4 hours post-workout or at dinner. She also addresses concerns about oxidation after exercise, recommending antioxidant nutrients (vitamin C, mixed tocopherols/tocotrienols, vitamin D) and vegetables like spinach, onions, and mushrooms, noting inflammation and microtears are part of training adaptation. Finally, she discusses research linking insomnia to higher stroke risk and hospitalization, and reviews possible causes and sleep hygiene, plus options like melatonin, L-theanine, magnesium, and herbal ingredients.
21:46Q&A with Leyla, Part 1: Getting Back to Sleep After Late Night Bathroom Break
Folic acid vs. methylfolate. Which is better? What do you recommend I take to get back to sleep when I wake at 2 AM to go to the bathroom?
28:54Q&A with Leyla, Part 2: Recovering from Bowel Upset after Antibiotic Course
Is it safe for me to take DHEA given my family history of breast and uterine cancers? I still have stomach and bowel upset after completing a round of antibiotics 2 months ago. What's the best type of exercise for a type 2 diabetic? Aerobics or resistance training? I have IBS, but my doctor confirmed no gluten sensitivity. hen why do I have symptoms when I eat wheat?
32:41Beyond Medication: Nutritional Alternatives for Mood Enhancement, Part 1
Nutritional Support for Mood: Magnesium, 5-HTP, Adaptogens, and the Folic Acid Debate: Dr. Ronald Hoffman interviews Neil Levin of NOW Foods/Protocol for Life Balance about rising depression and anxiety and the roles of lifestyle, social media, stress, diet, sleep, and exercise in mood. They discuss nutrient cofactors for neurotransmitter production, emphasizing B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, omega-3s, and gut health/fiber, plus concerns about heavy metals like lead and possible links to mood and violence. Levin contrasts tryptophan vs 5-HTP (blood-brain barrier, dosing, serotonin/melatonin) and reviews supplements for mood support including magnesium glycinate and magnesium threonate (Magtein/Cogumin), ashwagandha KSM-66 for stress and sleep, inositol (often gram-level dosing; PCOS and neurotransmitter effects), and GABA/PharmaGABA. They also address controversy over folic acid fortification, arguing folic acid is proven to reduce neural tube defects, methylfolate marketing has caused misinformation, and very high folate doses may warrant caution in active cancer.
25:35Beyond Medication: Nutritional Alternatives for Mood Enhancement, Part 2
Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Neil Levin, Senior Nutrition Education Manager and a product formulator for NOW Foods and Protocol for Life Balance.
45:33Navigating Parenting in the Digital Age: Social Media Risks, Screen Time, and Practical Strategies, Part 1
Dr. Ronald Hoffman interviews pediatrician and public health expert Dr. Megan Moreno, co-author of “Connecting: Raising Kids in the Digital World” and co-medical director of the American Academy of Pediatrics Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health, about how social media and technology affect children’s mental and physical health. They discuss evidence linking tech use to sleep disruption and mixed effects on nutrition and physical activity, plus risks including body image comparisons, addictive “frictionless” design in social media and gaming, exposure to disturbing content, cyberbullying, sexting, and impacts of parent device use on connection and language development. Moreno outlines practical, non-punitive strategies: assessing readiness for a phone based on maturity, setting rules on time and location, co-viewing, using device settings with role modeling, watching for problematic use, and maintaining open, supportive conversations.
24:17Navigating Parenting in the Digital Age: Social Media Risks, Screen Time, and Practical Strategies, Part 2
Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with pediatrician and public health expert Dr. Megan Moreno, co-author of “Connecting: Raising Kids in the Digital World” and co-medical director of the American Academy of Pediatrics Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health, about how social media and technology affect children’s mental and physical health.
26:00Intelligent Medicine Radio for October 10, Part 1: Weaponized Plague?
Death at clandestine Siberian bio lab raises specter of weaponized plague leak; Oats for constipation—friend or foe? How long can supplements keep? New weight-loss med that preserves lean body mass nears approval; Reading for pleasure—a waning pastime—enhances memory, mood, and empathy.
35:19Intelligent Medicine Radio for October 10, Part 2: Mistletoe for Cancer?
The brouhaha over fortifying foods with folic acid—is it a cancer promoter? Follow-up to botched Tennessee execution; Whole 30 or Paleo diets for autoimmunity; Mistletoe for cancer; Lifestyle changes may be as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy for depression; Sugar avoidance in first 1000 days of life slows organ aging, reduces later-life disease risk.
35:21Leyla Weighs In: Eating Tips for Exercisers and Energy Drink Warnings
What to Eat After a Fasted Workout—and Why Energy Drinks May Affect Heart Rhythm: Registered dietitian nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses what to eat after exercise, especially morning fasted workouts, advising water first and avoiding sweet or carb-rich post-workout options (smoothies, bananas, flavored yogurts, cereal, sports drinks) because they can raise blood sugar and insulin, reduce fat burning by suppressing glucagon, and blunt exercise-related benefits like human growth hormone; instead she recommends a savory protein-and-fat meal (e.g., a 3–4 egg omelet, steak, chicken salad without bread) within 45–60 minutes to support muscle repair while keeping insulin low. She then reviews a 2025 systematic review of 37 studies (1,597 participants; average age 22.5) in which 63.2% of studies reported QT prolongation after energy drink consumption, with frequent increases in blood pressure and heart rate, noting that the findings show repeated measurable cardiovascular changes but do not prove energy drinks cause heart disease.
21:59Q&A with Leyla, Part 1: Calcium and Strontium
A discussion on diet and health Folic acid-fortified foods and cancer How do I use your store? Why are calcium and strontium often put together in some supplements when they're supposed to be taken apart?
30:08Q&A with Leyla, Part 2: Restless Legs Syndrome
They're back! Fruit and veggie pills The benefits of Pycnogenol in lipedema What are some good supplements for my 14- and 18-year-old grandsons? What can I do about my restless legs syndrome?
35:56Preventive Medicine: From Past Discoveries to Future Challenges, Part 1
Preventive Medicine and the “Preventioneers”--From Benjamin Franklin to Modern Public Health: Dr. Ronald Hoffman interviews public health physician Dr. Barry Davis, MD-PhD, author of "The Preventioneers: Diseases, Disasters, and the Discoveries That Changed Our World," about why preventive knowledge often fails to translate into action. Davis explains Benjamin Franklin’s “ounce of prevention” quote originated in fire prevention and led to innovations like fire companies, building codes, lightning rods, the Franklin stove, and fire insurance. They discuss hypertension as a “silent killer,” the VA clinical trials proving blood-pressure lowering prevents strokes and heart attacks, and the modern gap in awareness and control, alongside systemic barriers like access, adherence, and clinical inertia. Davis outlines a prevention framework—recognition, evidence, translation, implementation—and persistent resistance from industry, addiction, glamour, and the “invisibility problem,” noting only 2.9% of U.S. health spending goes to prevention. They cover clinical trials, peer review, bias, confounding, Mendelian randomization, statin evidence, Semmelweis and handwashing, seatbelt adoption, AI as an emerging prevention challenge, and rebuilding public trust after COVID through better communication and coordination.
24:52Preventive Medicine: From Past Discoveries to Future Challenges, Part 2
Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Barry R. Davis, MD, PHD, Public Health Physician | Biostatistician | Clinical Trials Expert | Professor Emeritus, University of Texas School of Public Health, author of “The Preventioneers: Diseases, Disasters, and the Discoveries That Changed Our World."
32:13The Science and Benefits of Nitric Oxide: The Swiss Army Knife Nutrient for Health, Part 1
Nitric Oxide: Supporting Vascular Health, Performance, and the Oral Microbiome with Dr. Nathan Bryan: Dr. Ronald Hoffman interviews nitric oxide researcher and entrepreneur Dr. Nathan Bryan about nitric oxide (NO) as a short-lived signaling gas that dilates blood vessels, reduces inflammation, mobilizes stem cells, supports mitochondria, and is linked to longevity. Bryan explains two NO production pathways: nitric oxide synthase from L-arginine and an entero-salivary nitrate pathway requiring dietary nitrate, specific oral bacteria, and stomach acid; he says sugar-heavy diets, fluoride toothpaste, antiseptic mouthwash, and proton pump inhibitors inhibit NO. Symptoms of deficiency include erectile dysfunction, rising blood pressure, metabolic disease/diabetes, exercise intolerance, and dementia/Alzheimer’s. They discuss limitations of many beet products, Bryan’s N-101 lozenges and NOBeats powder that generate NO, topical NO for wound healing and skincare, a fluoride-free prebiotic toothpaste, an upcoming mouth rinse, potential benefits for resistant hypertension, insulin resistance, cognition, and eye conditions like glaucoma, and access/discount details via hoffmannno.com.
25:56The Science and Benefits of Nitric Oxide: The Swiss Army Knife Nutrient for Health, Part 2
Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with nitric oxide researcher and entrepreneur Dr. Nathan Bryan.
25:59Intelligent Medicine Radio for October 3, Part 1: More Powerful Weight Loss Drugs Are On The Launchpad
Ever more powerful weight loss drugs are on the launchpad as FDA issues warnings about bootleg versions—and potential hazards of drastic weight loss to seniors and those with eating disorders; Botched Tennessee execution—how can that happen? Immune support for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in a lung cancer survivor; Should beta-glucans be taken with—or away from—food for optimal absorption? Boosting bone density with an exercise program targeted for osteopenia/fall prevention.
35:25Intelligent Medicine Radio for October 3, Part 2: The Health Scourge of E-Bikes
Do you have to worry about too much vitamin A from supplements? Urolithin A scores against a common form of heart failure; Most blood tests don’t require fasting; The health scourge of E-bikes; Slashing sugar before antibiotics reduces harms to microbiome; Study shows inadequate REM sleep associated with 83 diseases—but doubts persist over accuracy of sleep wearables.
35:23Leyla Weighs In: Time-Restricted Eating vs. Usual Eating--What Science Says
Time-Restricted Eating Study: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin details a Johns Hopkins Medicine study (published July 27 in Obesity) on time-restricted eating (TRE), a form of intermittent fasting that limits eating to a consistent 8–10 hour daily window, in adults with obesity and prediabetes or diet-controlled type 2 diabetes. In a 12-week trial of mostly female and Black participants, groups followed either a 10-hour TRE schedule or a usual 16-hour eating pattern, while all received a provided, personalized-calorie DASH diet intended to maintain starting weight. Both groups experienced similar modest weight loss and reported improved eating behaviors (more restraint, less stress eating, less hunger), with no differences in appetite hormones (ghrelin, leptin) or inflammation markers (CRP, cortisol). Leyla argues a higher-carb DASH diet may have limited measurable benefits and suggests repeating the study with a true low-carbohydrate diet; she also explains how fasting periods can lower insulin, support fat burning, and improve sleep by avoiding late meals.
22:21Q&A with Leyla, Part 1: Detoxing Microplastics
The benefits of kimchi for detoxing microplastics What do you recommend my husband take to recover from Bell's Palsy? Follow-up on coronary artery inflammation question
28:36Q&A with Leyla, Part 2: Benefits of Pilates
The benefits of Pilates What does it mean that certain brands of nattokinase are "free of K2"? Should I avoid soy products due to my history of breast cancer? How can I choose the best fish oil? Is there a certain dose you recommend? Is there any other supplement I can take besides 5-HTP for mood? What about SAMe? Is there any relief for my friend with ulcerative colitis?
38:52Decoding Omega-3 Benefits: A Discussion with the Godfather of Functional Medicine, Part 1
Fish Oil, Full-Spectrum Omega-3s, and Immunometabolism with Dr. Jeffrey Bland: Dr. Ronald Hoffman interviews Dr. Jeffrey Bland, founder of the Personalized Lifestyle Medicine Institute and Big Bold Health, about fish oil and omega-3 science. Bland recounts becoming involved with commercial fish oil in 1980 while promoting MaxEPA amid the “fat is bad” era and discusses Greenland Inuit research showing high omega-3 blood levels and low heart disease. They contrast whole-food omega-3 intake with highly refined EPA/DHA products, highlighting additional constituents in minimally processed oils (vitamins A and D, astaxanthin) and precursor compounds related to specialized pro-resolving mediators. Bland describes Omega-3 Rejuvenate’s Alaska line-caught sourcing and low-heat, chemical-free processing, and addresses concerns about mercury, microplastics, and vitamin A dosing. The conversation also covers PLMI’s focus on immunometabolism, a CBC-derived SIRI marker, omega-3 insufficiency data from Fullscript, mitochondrial membrane support by DHA, and Bland’s upcoming book, “The Nourished Gene.”
22:05Decoding Omega-3 Benefits: A Discussion with the Godfather of Functional Medicine, Part 2
Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Jeffrey Bland, founder of the Personalized Lifestyle Medicine Institute and Big Bold Health, about fish oil and omega-3 science.
29:10How’s Your Cholesterol Level? Why Your LDL Numbers May Not Tell the Whole Story, Part 1
Cholesterol Beyond the Basics: ApoB, Lp(a), Stress, and Aged Garlic Extract for Cardiovascular Risk: Dr. Ronald Hoffman interviews clinical pharmacist and nutritionist Jim LaValle about cardiovascular risk factors beyond total cholesterol, emphasizing that blood tests measure lipoprotein particles and subfractions rather than cholesterol itself. They discuss limitations of relying on surrogate markers, the role of lifestyle (diet, exercise, sleep, stress, glucose control), and advanced markers such as ApoB, Lp(a), oxidized LDL, and Lp-PLA2, noting that lowering Lp(a) or improving markers doesn’t always improve outcomes. LaValle highlights ApoB as a key risk barometer, reviews evidence for aged garlic extract lowering ApoB, slowing coronary artery calcification, regressing vulnerable plaque, and improving vascular function, and supports combining supplements with appropriate medications. They address lean-mass hyper-responders on ketogenic diets, debate broad statin use in seniors, and cover stress/cortisol dysregulation, hormone effects, and appropriate use of GLP-1 drugs for weight and metabolic risk.
27:53How’s Your Cholesterol Level? Why Your LDL Numbers May Not Tell the Whole Story, Part 2
Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with clinical pharmacist and nutritionist Jim LaValle about cardiovascular risk factors beyond total cholesterol.
26:51Intelligent Medicine Radio for September 26, Part 1: What Super-Agers Over 100 Have in Common
We take the keys away from older drivers—why not older doctors? Nearly 3 in 4 Americans battling this health problem—fatigue! What super-agers over 100 have in common—a hyper-vigilant immune system guarding against cancers and infections. How does “anabolic resistance” contribute to frailty—and what to do about it? Recurrent bouts of “burning sensations” on the face—diagnosis please?
35:23Intelligent Medicine Radio for September 26, Part 2: Dry Fasting
Deadline looms for ban on hemp-derived CBD/THC products—while legal pot proliferates; Scientists disclose IBD benefits of urolithin A; “Dry-fasting” is a new fad—is it healthy? Short “exercise snacks” to break up prolonged inactivity benefit attention and cognition; Kimchi and designer probiotics show promise for flushing out microplastics; LSD soon to be approved as a prescription for anxiety.
34:26Leyla Weighs In: The Connection Between Sleep Cycles, Growth Hormone, and Metabolic Health
Sleep, Growth Hormone, and Autophagy: How Rest, Diet, and Fasting Support Metabolic Health and Longevity: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses how deep, early non-REM sleep boosts growth hormone for muscle, bone, fat burning, and metabolic health, and reviews a Cell study in which UC Berkeley researchers mapped hypothalamic circuits and feedback through the locus coeruleus showing a tight balance between sleep, growth hormone release, and wakefulness, with implications for metabolic disease and neurodegeneration. She connects poor sleep to higher blood sugar, insulin, and cortisol, which can suppress growth hormone, and advises avoiding sweet post-workout foods (e.g., smoothies, bananas, fruit yogurt) that stimulate insulin and blunt growth hormone, recommending protein and fat instead. She then explains autophagy and mitophagy as cellular cleanup processes linked to longevity, noting autophagy peaks after 12 hours of fasting, highlighting roles in mitochondrial quality control, immunity, and neurodegenerative disease, and mentions interventions such as fasting, exercise, ketogenic diets, and investigational inducers like rapamycin and urolithin A.
25:11ENCORE: Q&A with Leyla, Part 1: America's Food Fight
America's food fight and dietary guidelines My son-in-law suffers from bloating and abdominal pain. Any suggestions? I have positive but low anti-gliadin antibodies. Should I embark on a gluten-free diet?
34:32ENCORE: Q&A with Leyla, Part 2: CoQ10 v. PQQ
I'm a 70-year-old woman with hip arthritis. Any recommendations? A treatment on the horizon for high Lipoprotein (a)? After chemotherapy to help shrink a tumor near my husband's spine, he now has numbness and neuropathy in his legs Another study implicates meat, and now poultry and fish, in causing cardiovascular disease What do you think of Consumer Lab's recommendations on supplements? I take CoQ10, but I just heard about PQQ. What are your thoughts?
34:29ENCORE: Beyond Kegels: Comprehensive Pelvic Health with Dr. Sara Reardon, Part 1
Understanding Pelvic Floor Health: Dr. Sarah Reardon, a board-certified pelvic floor physical therapist and author of "FLOORED: A Woman's Guide to Pelvic Floor Health at Every Age and Stage," delves into pelvic floor disorders, highlighting their prevalence, symptoms, and the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Reardon explains the anatomy and function of the pelvic floor, common misconceptions about Kegels, and the impact of life events such as childbirth and menopause. She also touches on the relevance of pelvic floor health for men, particularly in relation to prostatitis and other urinary issues. Practical advice on addressing these issues, including biofeedback, exercises, and lifestyle modifications, is provided. The episode emphasizes the need for greater awareness and proactive measures to prevent and treat pelvic floor dysfunction.
23:13ENCORE: Beyond Kegels: Comprehensive Pelvic Health with Dr. Sara Reardon, Part 2
Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Sara Reardon, author of "FLOORED: A Woman's Guide to Pelvic Floor Health at Every Age and Stage."
29:20