Dr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your Health

Story at-a-glance Research has found that even mild hearing impairment significantly increases Parkinson's disease risk, suggesting hearing problems could be an early warning sign of neurodegeneration Parkinson's patients experience difficulties with both basic hearing and complex auditory processing, impacting their ability to understand speech and process sounds effectively in daily life Scientists discovered strong connections between hearing loss, dementia and Parkinson's disease severity, with hearing impairment being more prevalent in individuals with severe Parkinson's and dementia The relationship between hearing loss and neurodegeneration could be due to shared underlying mechanisms, including mitochondrial dysfunction and protein changes that affect both conditions Protecting cellular health through diet, toxin reduction and lifestyle modifications helps prevent neurodegenerative conditions by supporting mitochondrial function

Story at-a-glance A study in the journal Nutrients examined how juicing affects gut and oral microbiomes, finding that removing fiber significantly decreases beneficial microbial diversity and increases inflammation-linked bacteria Participants who consumed whole foods with higher fiber showed increased beneficial microbes that protect gut lining and reduce inflammation, while the juice-only group experienced negative microbial changes within three weeks Removing fiber through juicing disrupts SCFA (short-chain fatty acid) production and weakens gut barrier integrity, which can lead to leaky gut syndrome where harmful substances enter the bloodstream The oral microbiome is particularly susceptible to rapid changes from juicing, as the sudden increase in simple sugars without fiber's buffering effects promotes harmful bacterial growth Instead of juicing, consider eating whole fruits and vegetables, blending produce to retain fiber, adding pulp to juices and gradually increasing fiber intake to support your gut microbiome

Story at-a-glance Research found that higher levels of harmful bacteria (Prevotella intermedia) in the mouth are linked to cognitive impairment, while beneficial bacteria (Neisseria and Haemophilus) support better brain function Nitric oxide production by beneficial oral bacteria plays a crucial role in maintaining blood flow to the brain. Nitrate-rich vegetables help boost the population of these healthy bacteria People with the APOE4 gene show a distinct oral microbiome composition. Research shows they have lower levels of Neisseria bacteria and higher amounts of Prevotella, which is associated with increased dementia risk Harmful oral bacteria have the ability to enter the bloodstream and cross the blood-brain barrier, leading to brain inflammation that results in cognitive decline Maintaining oral health through proper diet, regular brushing and flossing, nose breathing, avoiding antibacterial mouthwash and practicing oil pulling are effective strategies against cognitive decline

Story at-a-glance Osteoarthritis results from cartilage deterioration due to genetic, metabolic and inflammatory factors, causing bone friction, pain, stiffness and bone spur formation that impair joint function Studies show boosting vitamin K2 intake supports joint health by regulating calcium metabolism, reducing inflammation, boosting cartilage integrity and activating proteins like GPX4 to protect cartilage cells from damage Elevated levels of vitamin K-dependent proteins like Gla-rich protein (GRP) and matrix Gla protein (MGP) in osteoarthritic joints suggest their protective role against harmful calcium deposits and their use as diagnostic markers Insufficient vitamin K impairs protein activation, allowing calcification, inflammation and cartilage damage to progress unchecked, exacerbating osteoarthritis symptoms and joint degeneration Increasing vitamin K2 intake through foods, supplements and healthy lifestyle changes offers a powerful approach to preserving joint health, reducing inflammation and slowing osteoarthritis progression

Story at-a-glance Negative ions are electrically charged molecules that concentrate naturally in areas like beaches, waterfalls, mountains, and forests, that help cleanse the air of unhealthy particles Scientists have found that high-density negative air ionization may help counter symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) The ocean's negative ions are created when water molecules gain electrons, while mountain air can be rich in negative ions due to mineral content like magnesium and calcium from limestone Taking a shower can generate negative ions at home through the "Lenard effect," where the shearing forces of fast-flowing water create friction that adds electrons to molecules Negative ions form when oxygen in the air (O2) takes on a negative electrical charge to become O2⎺, which then gets enveloped by microdroplets of moisture to create what we know as "fresh air"

Story at-a-glance Walking 5,000 or more steps daily reduces depressive symptoms, while 7,000 or more steps significantly lower your risk of developing depression over time Just 2,600 steps daily reduces all-cause mortality risk by 8%, with optimal heart health benefits at 7,200 steps per day Walking boosts mood by releasing endorphins, lowering stress hormones, improving sleep and enhancing mental clarity and energy levels Even light-intensity walking offers significant health benefits, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels without requiring special equipment Consistency, not perfection, is key. Gradually increasing step counts benefits physical and mental health with minimal time and financial investment

In this interview, Dr. Patrick Gentempo, a longtime friend and respected chiropractor, discusses the importance of knowing your own health philosophy with Dr. Mercola

In this interview, Dr. Eric Pinnar, the surgeon who did Dr. Mercola's hernia surgery, provides clarity on which option is best for when it comes to hernia surgery.

Story at-a-glance The brain and muscles maintain constant two-way communication — muscles release biochemical signals that travel to the brain, while the brain coordinates movement and balance Regular physical activity enhances your brain function through multiple mechanisms, such as boosting neurogenesis, increasing cerebral blood flow, reducing inflammation and building cognitive reserve A 2024 study revealed that both biochemical signals (myokines) and mechanical forces from muscle contractions during exercise independently contribute to motor neuron growth and development Moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes is optimal for brain health, while excessive high-intensity workouts elevate cortisol and negate longevity benefits Tips to tailor your routine for maximum cognitive gains are included below, such as elevating your heart rate, allowing time for results, diversifying workouts and incorporating social activities

Story at-a-glance Research shows curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, significantly reduces exercise-induced muscle damage and inflammation, leading to faster recovery times for athletes and fitness enthusiasts at all levels A 2024 study demonstrated that curcumin supplementation effectively lowers biomarkers of muscle damage like creatine kinase and inflammatory cytokines while supporting natural muscle repair processes Unlike pharmaceutical painkillers, curcumin selectively targets the COX-2 enzyme and modulates the NF-κB pathway, reducing inflammation without interfering with essential cellular functions needed for muscle recovery Studies show curcumin increases glutathione production and antioxidant activity, protecting muscle cells from oxidative stress and free radicals generated during intense exercise For maximum benefits, take a high-quality curcumin supplement before or after your workout, alongside healthy fats for better absorption

Story at-a-glance Fiber byproducts — short-chain fatty acids — physically attach to DNA regions, influencing how genes are turned on or off through epigenetic regulation A comprehensive review of 11 meta-analyses found that higher fiber consumption correlates with reduced risk of several cancers, including gastric, esophageal, ovarian and endometrial tumors Fiber helps regulate hormone pathways and curbs inflammation, with studies showing it may reduce estrogen reabsorption, lowering the risk of hormone-related cancers like breast cancer Research indicates modern diets often lack adequate fiber, leading to chronic metabolic strain and disrupted digestive processes, making fiber optimization an important public health strategy People with compromised gut health should introduce fiber gradually, starting with easily digestible carbohydrates like white rice and fruit juices before progressing to more fibrous foods. In severe cases, start with dextrose water

In this discussion, Dr. Alan Christianson, widely regarded as a premier expert on thyroid issues, and Ashley Armstrong, a regenerative farmer and founder of Angel Acres, discuss the intricate relationship between iodine intake and thyroid health, uncovering a paradox that has significant implications for your health.

In this interview, Dr. Peter Martone, a chiropractor and owner of the Atlantis Chiropractic Wellness Centers, discusses the reasons why cervical spine deterioration occurs and practical methods to improve your spine health.

In this interview, Dr. Vincent Pedre, an internist with a focus on functional medicine and gut health, discusses the intricate connections between your gut microbiome, diet, antibiotics and chronic diseases, revealing why your gut is often the cornerstone of chronic health issues.

In this interview, Ashley Armstrong discusses her unique perspective which bridges the gap between optimal health practices and sustainable farming, offering invaluable insights into how our food systems and dietary choices profoundly impact well-being. Armstrong is Co-Founder of Angel Acres Egg Club, which specializes in low PUFA eggs. Angel Acres eggs are lab tested at Michigan State University to be significantly lower in Linoleic Acid (a metabolic poison). Egg boxes are finally available after almost a year of a long wait list. Check out Angel Acres eggs here. Dr. Mercola consumes the Raw A2 cheese from Nourish every day - and Armstrong and Nourish created Artisanal Cheese Boxes exclusively for Dr. Mercola customers - filled with 4 lbs of the highest quality raw cheese you can find. Always 100% grass-fed, vaccine-free, and A2A2. We are working on scaling this up, but cheese boxes open up every Sunday night at 6 pm ET. You can shop and join the email list here to be notified when restocked (every Sunday at 6 pm ET).

In this interview, pharmacist and health coach Carol Petersen, explores the complexities of thyroid health, uncovering insights that challenge conventional medical practices.

In this interview, Dr. Keira Barr, a pioneering functional dermatologist and author of the book "The Skin Whisperer," discusses her remarkable journey from melanoma survivor to holistic skin health revolutionary.

In this interview with compounding pharmacist Carol Petersen, we discuss how bioidentical hormones mirror your body's natural hormones; Petersen strongly advocates for natural progesterone over synthetic progestins due to the latter's dangerous health risks including cancer.

In this interview, Calley Means, co-author of the book "Good Energy" and a policy advisor to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., uncovers some shocking truths about the origins of our modern food system and the dire health consequences we're facing as a result.

In this podcast, Dr. Mercola goes into the details on why getting optimal sun exposure is one of the cornerstones of health, particularly the role it plays in optimizing your cellular energy.

In this Interview, Dr. Brooke Scheller, a doctor of clinical nutrition, founder of Functional Sobriety (a nutrition-based program for alcohol reduction) and author of "How to Eat to Change How You Drink,"discusses how misguided and dangerous the common beliefs around "moderate" drinking really are.

Dr. Mercola was recently a keynote speaker at the Biohacking Conference 2024 in Dallas, Texas. He exposes the failures of conventional medicine and offer innovative strategies and solutions to reverse chronic disease and restore your individual health and well-being.

Dr. Mercola recently spoke at the Ron Paul Institute, sharing how modern medicine is heavily influenced by pharmaceutical companies, leading to an overreliance on prescriptions rather than addressing root causes of disease.

In this interview, Dr. Perry Nickelston, a chiropractor, discusses the Big Six" lymphatic drainage technique, focusing on six primary areas in a specific order: collarbone, jaw, shoulder/armpit, abdomen, groin and behind your knee

In this interview, Hemal Patel, a renowned mitochondrial researcher, discusses how mitochondria are crucial for overall health, as impaired mitochondrial function lies at the heart of most chronic diseases.

In this Interview,Tyler W. LeBaron, Ph.D., discusses about molecular hydrogen, a unique antioxidant that can address both oxidative and reductive stress, acting as a redox adaptogen to restore cellular balance without disrupting natural signaling processes.

In this Interview, Ashley Armstrong discusses how the advent of industrial cheese production has dramatically altered its quality, making real, traditional cheese increasingly hard to find in the U.S. Instead, the market is now flooded with cheese made using synthetic, lab-produced rennet, which alters its nutritional profile and fails to match the quality and benefits of traditionally made cheese.

In this Interview, Dr. Carlo Litano, who has been practicing dentistry for 20 years, discusses his journey in this area of medicine.

In this Interview, Mark Kastel, an Organic Industry Watchdog, discusses the challenges facing organic consumers and farmers while offering insights on how to find truly healthy, ethically produced food.

In this Interview, Dr. Cate Shanahan explains that seed oils (vegetable oils) are highly toxic, promoting oxidative stress and damaging mitochondria, which are crucial for cellular energy production and overall health

In this Interview, Dr. Ahvie Herskowitz, a former UCSF professor, treats complex health issues by addressing root causes. He discusses microbiome problems and leaky gut are fundamental to many diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders.

In this interview, Siim Land, the author of the new book "The Longevity Leap," discusses key factors for optimizing health and lifespan. We discuss how maintaining "biological youth" is the single most important factor for longevity

In this interview, Leah Segedie, the founder of Mamavation, discusses her groundbreaking work investigating and exposing toxic chemicals in food and consumer products.

Dr. Jenna Greenfield is a medical director at High Tech Health, which is the longest running infrared sauna company in the U.S. We discuss infrared light therapy, including sauna usage, as it has many biological benefits that can radically improve your health.

Ruth Ann Foster, ScD, BSN, RN discusses oxalates and explore the underlying causes of that gut dysfunction and how it relates to overall health.

Keith Littlewood discusses endocrinology, which is a branch of medicine that focuses on the study of hormones and the glands and tissues that produce them. It addresses the intricate balance of hormones that regulate many of your body's essential functions, and how to keep them in the proper equilibrium.

Kate Deering, author of "How to Heal Your Metabolism," has been involved in the health and fitness industry for more than three decades. She has a deep understanding of bioenergetics and, in this recent interview, explores some of the nuances of applying bioenergetic therapies and how they can help you live with increased vigor and vitality.

In this interview, repeat guest Brad Marshall, a molecular biologist, explains how different dietary fats influence your metabolism and overall health.

Dr. Casey Means is a Stanford-trained physician and co-founder of Levels, a company focused on metabolic health. Means shifted her career from surgery to functional medicine after recognizing the potential to prevent chronic diseases through lifestyle and dietary changes. Her book, "Good Energy," released this week and empowers people to make informed health decisions using self-trust, intuition and technology-enabled tools to reach higher levels of metabolic health and, ultimately, joy.

In this episode, Ashley Armstrong, cofounder of Angel Acres Egg Co., discusses how she specializes in low-PUFA (polyunsaturated fat) eggs, and the Nourish Cooperative, which provides low-PUFA pork, beef, cheese made with natural animal rennet, A2 dairy, and traditional sourdough.

In this interview, Gary Vaynerchuk discusses his family roots and how his upbringing contributed to his current success. Vaynerchuk, often known as Gary Vee, is a prominent entrepreneur, author, speaker, and internet personality.

In this episode, Sally Norton, an esteemed authority on oxalates, whose expertise is invaluable for anyone seeking to understand this topic, discusses the dangers of oxalates.

In this interview, Georgi Dinkov, a bioenergetic medicine researcher and I delve into the nuanced understanding of how our microbiome influences dietary choices, particularly the contentious decision between starch and fruit as preferable sources of carbohydrates

In this interview, Brad Marshall explains how reductive stress works, and why it's so bad for your health.

In this interview, Dr. Suzanne Humphries discusses the release of the 10th anniversary edition of "Dissolving Illusions: Disease, Vaccines, and the Forgotten History," one of my favorite books on vaccines, originally published in 2013.

In this interview, Frank Llosa, founder and CEO of KetoneAid Inc., and Dr. Mercola discuss the pros and cons of exogenous ketones.

In this interview, Christy Sutton, D.C., reviews the dangers of excessive iron. While most doctors look for iron deficiency, few ever pay attention to elevated iron.

In this interview, Chris Masterjohn, who has a Ph.D. in nutritional sciences from the University of Connecticut, and I discuss nutritional individuality, and how to assess your own personal nutritional needs.

In this interview, Del Bigtree, founder of "The Highwire" and the Informed Consent Action Network (icandecide.org), shares some of the recent lawsuits ICAN has won against the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In this interview Ashley Armstrong, a certified personal trainer with a Ph.D., MS and BS in engineering, and Dr. Mercola discuss ways to eat healthier and returning back to how food used to be made.