Intelligent Medicine | The Best of High Tech Medicine and Alternative Modalities

How do you evaluate which osteoporosis medicine is best for whom?The Clean Label Project finds 79% of pea protein powders contain some amount of leadShould I take the once-in-a-lifetime pneumonia vaccine?Is there a difference between MitoQ and ubiquinol?What to do about a complicated case of histamine intolerance

Transformation expert Kat James provides a deep-dive into the intricacies of the microbiome and its extensive impact on various aspects of health. Kat James, bestselling author of 'The Truth About Beauty,' shares her personal journey of overcoming eating disorders and metabolic imbalances through gut health. The discussion covers the roles of probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics in fostering a healthy microbiome, along with the unexpected connections between gut health and muscle mass, bone strength, mental health, and even skin health. They also touch upon practical tips for maintaining a balanced microbiome, especially during travel, and emphasize the innovative use of Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics. With emerging studies and expert insights, this episode sheds light on how optimizing gut health can lead to transformative well-being.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Kat James, renowned nutrition and inside-out transformation pioneer.

Regenerative agriculture—what is it? How does it differ from organic? Anand Swaroop Ph.D. is founder and president of Cepham, a science-based nutritional ingredient supplier, and an expert on regenerative agriculture. He describes how his family’s background in traditional farming in India prompted his interest in promoting regenerative agriculture in the face of increasing reliance on industrial farm technology, which relies on monoculture, and extensive use of chemical fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and GMO crops. Can regenerative agriculture meet the challenge of feeding the world’s surging population? Can it help alleviate climate change? Is the food healthier and tastier? Dr. Swaroop also details how science is facilitating development of ever more promising nutraceuticals, and why the current supplement marketplace is experiencing supply chain problems. He details rigorous controls Cepham has instituted to ensure ingredient quality and safety.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Anand Swaroop Ph.D., founder and president of Cepham, a science-based nutritional ingredient supplier, and an expert on regenerative agriculture.

High LDL cholesterol doesn’t always translate to arterial plaque; Intractable hiccups—what to do? Do changes of season affect moral judgment? Aging spurts--they’re a thing! The surprising reason dozens were sickened by pizza in Wisconsin; Calming effects of lavender are real.

New warning over side effects of weight loss drugs; “Keto” LMNT electrolyte drink found to contain undisclosed amounts of unwanted additive maltodextrin; Vitamin D linked to improved Hodgkin’s lymphoma survival; Do we really need collagen supplements when the body already makes it? How laughter therapy alleviates dry eye syndrome; Difference in blood pressure readings between arms—could it signal danger? Majority of seniors treated in federal health centers show cognitive impairment; Statins vs. natural therapy for cardiovascular prevention.

Nurturing Hair Health: Nutrition, Habits, and Aging: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin highlights the importance of nutrition and proper care for maintaining healthy hair, especially as we age. She discusses how aging impacts hair growth and quality, the role of essential nutrients like iron, protein, and vitamins, and offers practical tips for hair care. Leyla advises on dietary choices, beneficial foods, and the importance of reducing stress and avoiding damaging hair practices. She emphasizes eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables, avoiding pro-inflammatory foods, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits to improve overall hair health.

Chat GPT's response to "what are the benefits of an omnivorous lifestyle?"Bone health protocols on Dr. Hoffman's websiteI left my cardiologist's office without a prescription for high blood pressure. Should I be concerned?How should I take my testosterone injection? I'm concerned about hitting a nerve or vein.

My doctor told me I have the beginning of AMD. How much zinc should I take?What do you think is the root cause of psychopathic disorder?Any supplement suggestions for a complex tear of the meniscus of my knee? Surgery is not recommended.What specific supplements should I take as a shift worker to support my health?Can I take a probiotic and berberine at the same time?

More and more, the country is devolving into health inequity—between the haves and have-nots. There’s also a widening gap in nutrition, with obesity and attendant medical conditions disproportionally afflicting marginalized communities. Today’s guest, Tambra Rae Stevenson, is addressing these disparities. She’s a healthy food advocate and policy influencer, and a self-professed nutrition warrior. Among her initiatives is WANDA—Women and Girls Advancing Nutrition Dietetics and Agriculture, an organization building a movement of women and girls of African descent to become food “sheroes” in their communities through education, advocacy, and innovation. We discuss barriers to optimal nutrition, food “deserts”, and special needs of underserved populations. There’s a paucity of trained nutrition educators of color, and Stevenson is spear-heading initiatives to incentivize development of a cadre of community-based advocates for healthy diets. We discuss the importance of involving kids early, through programs like school and community gardens. Stevenson shares her personal journey exploring her African roots, discovering the benefits of centuries-old traditions of ancestral foods; she’s leveraging these insights to promote culturally-appropriate healthier food choices. Initiatives like WANDA can make a huge difference in reversing the tide of preventable disease.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Tambra Raye Stevenson, nutrition educator, policy advisor, food justice activist, and founder of WANDA (Women, Advancing, Dietetics and Nutrition).

Navigating Modern Mental Health: Integrative Psychiatry with Dr. Drew Ramsey, a leading board-certified integrative psychiatrist. The conversation addresses the pressing mental health crisis affecting all age groups, from rising Alzheimer's cases among seniors to increasing anxiety and depression in youth. Dr. Ramsey introduces his book, “Healing the Modern Brain: Nine Tenets to Build Mental Fitness and Revitalize Your Mind,” which emphasizes lifestyle changes over medication. They explore the significance of nutritional psychiatry, the effects of modern lifestyle challenges, and the essential tenets for mental fitness. Dr. Ramsey shares his clinical experiences, insights on the benefits of diverse diets, and stresses the importance of movement, purpose, and connection for mental health. The discussion also touches on the challenges and potential of the current health environment, advocating for a balanced and evidence-based approach to mental well-being.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Drew Ramsey, MD, a leading board-certified integrative psychiatrist and author of "Healing the Modern Brain: Nine Tenets to Build Mental Fitness and Revitalize Your Mind."

A Super Bowl commercial for weight loss drugs causes an uproar; Adding a familiar amino acid to tuna reduces mercury content; Rethinking epidural shots for back pain; CV Sciences debuts innovative new CBD gummies, drinks.

Taxpayers dollars went to doxxing opponents of pesticides, GMOs; Strontium for fracture healing? Vitamin D helps thyroid; Study highlights harmful effects of ultra-processed foods on cognition; Brain function needn’t decline with age, may improve

Low FODMAP and Low Carb Diets Outperform Drugs for IBS Treatment: In this episode of Intelligent Medicine, Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses a study published in the Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology Journal examining the effectiveness of diet versus drug interventions in managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The study presents findings from a single-blind, randomized control trial comparing low FODMAP, low carbohydrate diets, and pharmacological treatments. Results indicate that both diet groups significantly outperformed drug treatments in symptom severity reduction, with specific benefits observed in patients suffering from constipation and diarrhea-dominant IBS. Leyla highlights the advantages of dietary interventions as first-line treatments for IBS, the practical aspects of implementing these diets, and the study's broader implications for improving quality of life for IBS sufferers.

Study finds the thyroid gland needs higher vitamin D levels to function optimallyWhat are your thoughts on encapsulated organ meat supplements? Are they bioavailable?How much water should you drink per day? Do other beverages count towards the total?I recently had a cardiac cath procedure resulting in no stent! Phew!

What can I take for my recent early-stage glaucoma diagnosis?What supplements would be beneficial for immune deficiency?I'm 78 years old taking supplements and herbs for many years. Am I wasting my money?I recently fell and broke my wrist. Should I be supplementing with calcium?

Natural Approaches to Pain Management with Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, a renowned expert in treating chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and post-viral chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Dr. Teitelbaum discusses his latest book, 'You Can Heal from Long COVID,' and highlights insights from his well-known 'Fatigue to Fantastic' series. The conversation delves into the limitations and dangers of traditional opioid treatments for pain and proposes natural alternatives. They explore various types of pain, including muscle pain, inflammatory pain, neuropathy, migraine, and CRPS, emphasizing natural remedies like PEA, curcumin, Boswellia, and nutritional support through the SHINE protocol. The episode also touches upon current healthcare challenges and the potential for systemic change. Learn more at www.Vitality101.com and www.EndFatigue.com.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, Integrative Medicine physician, researcher, and best-selling author specializing in chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, sleep disorders, pain, and long COVID.

Comprehensive Cardiovascular Health and Prevention with Jim LaValle: In this episode of the Intelligent Medicine Podcast, Jim LaValle, a clinical pharmacist and heart health expert discusses various aspects of cardiovascular health in honor of Heart Health Month. The discussion covers risk factors for heart disease, including metabolic health markers and lifestyle influences. They examine the pros and cons of statins, their impact on brain health, and the role of natural supplements like Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract in cardiovascular prevention. Specific criteria for an ideal cardiovascular risk assessment are provided, and practical advice on exercise and maintaining a balanced diet is shared.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Jim LaValle, a Clinical Pharmacist, Author, Board Certified Clinical Nutritionist, and Heart Health Expert.

Heavy Metals and Mineral Deficiencies: Their Link to Migraines. In this episode of Intelligent Medicine, Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the correlation between heavy metals, trace mineral deficiencies, and migraines. Recent studies from researchers in the Netherlands and Turkey highlight significantly higher levels of lead and cobalt, and lower levels of zinc and selenium in migraine sufferers compared to healthy controls. Leyla explains the impact of neurotoxicity, oxidative stress, hormonal disruption, and impaired detoxification pathways on migraines. She also explores the benefits of zinc and selenium supplementation in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. Overall, the episode underscores the importance of addressing mineral imbalances and toxic metal exposures in migraine management.

Recent Intelligent Medicine Podcasts to check out: "Doctored" - a look at questionable Alzheimer's research and the side effects of new pricey drugs; The benefits of vinegar; Bio-identical hormone replacement for menopauseCan you recommend any supplements for a 99-year-old with dementia?Am I a candidate for stem cells? I have a history of breast cancer

After a long run, my knees hurt upon standing up from my chair. Is this arthritis?My new gynecologist says I don't need progesterone while taking estriol. What say you?I lost 100 pounds after gastric bypass but now I have incapacitating blood sugar spikes after meals.I have a positive ANA but all other tests are negative. Should I be concerned?Should I be concerned about the side effects of minoxidil compounded with dutasteride for hair loss?

Comprehensive Insights into Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy with Dr. Erika Schwartz, author of “The New Hormone Solution.” In this episode of the Intelligent Medicine Podcast, Dr. Ronald Hoffman speaks with Dr. Erika Schwartz, an expert in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. They discuss the evolution and controversies surrounding hormone therapies, including the impact of the Women's Health Initiative study. Dr. Schwartz shares her insights on the importance of a tailored approach to hormone replacement, the benefits of different forms of estrogen and progesterone, and the role of testosterone, DHEA, and lifestyle choices in comprehensive care for menopause and andropause. Additionally, they explore the topics of women's sexuality, the pros and cons of osteoporosis drugs, and the necessity of incorporating a holistic lifestyle approach for overall health and longevity.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Erika Schwartz, author of “The New Hormone Solution.”

Investigative journalist Charles Piller reveals deep-seated corruption in Alzheimer's research as chronicled in his book, “Doctored: Fraud, Arrogance, and Tragedy in the Quest to Cure Alzheimer's Disease.” The discussion delves into the issues surrounding Big Pharma's influence, fraudulent scientific studies, and the implications of a controversial 2006 experiment at the University of Minnesota. They also address the costly and marginally effective Alzheimer's drugs like Aducanumab, the challenges faced by alternative research hypotheses, and the significance of improving scientific integrity and checks and balances in medical research.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with investigative journalist Charles Piller, author of “Doctored: Fraud, Arrogance, and Tragedy in the Quest to Cure Alzheimer's Disease.”

The exorbitant cost of new drugs touted for psoriasis in direct-to-consumer ads highlights everything wrong with our medical system; When gastric bypass surgery sends blood sugar out of control; A campaign to ban ultra-processed foods from school meals may help alleviate nutritional threats to kids—but healthy eating begins at home; With winter viruses making the rounds, a remarkable supplement offers potent immune system support.

What are the downsides of pacemakers? Rethinking low-protein diets for chronic kidney disease; Bright light therapy and creatine alleviate depression; Withdrawal from World Health Organization assailed—but the U.S. can’t afford to abdicate to its flawed dietary recommendations; Does a positive ANA blood test necessarily mean you’re destined to develop an autoimmune disease? Unprecedented levels of sedative drug abuse among young people calls attention to “Anxious Generation."

In this episode of Intelligent Medicine, Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the rising importance of integrating culinary medicine in modern healthcare. Leyla emphasizes the need for blending ancient dietary wisdom with contemporary scientific practices to improve overall health and prevent disease. She highlights how convenience foods laden with preservatives and additives are detrimental to our gut health and advocates for a more thoughtful approach to nutrition. Traditional practices from Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine are revisited, stressing the importance of addressing root causes rather than relying purely on pharmacological solutions. Leyla calls for a healthcare approach that includes nutrition professionals to provide personalized dietary advice, ultimately leading to a proactive, holistic, and sustainable health management system.

Upcoming congressional hearings for RFK, Jr to head HHSI sleep four hours a night and feel fine, but is there a sleep supplement you recommend?Is agave a better sugar substitute than stevia? Any cautions about using agave?

Do you take all of your supplements when you go on vacation?I give blood at least once a year and now my ferritin level is 28. What should it be?Long-term use of statins can cause insulin resistance and associated elevations in fasting insulinCan anybody recover from primary progressive aphasia?

In this episode of the Intelligent Medicine Podcast, Dr. Ronald Hoffman interviews Dr. Carol Johnston, a professor of nutrition and associate dean at Arizona State University, dubbed 'The Vinegar Lady' for her extensive research on vinegar's health benefits. Dr. Johnston discusses the scientific basis for using apple cider vinegar to manage blood sugar levels, particularly in pre-diabetics, and its potential impacts on other conditions like depression. She explains how vinegar (acetic acid) affects metabolism and digestion. Additionally, Dr. Johnston highlights her research on high protein, low-fat diets, ketogenic diets, and the importance of maintaining a balanced intake of vitamins, especially B6 and C, due to common deficiencies in the American diet. The conversation includes practical dietary tips and addresses concerns like how to incorporate vinegar safely into daily consumption.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Carol Johnston, PhD, RD, Professor of Nutrition, in the College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University.

Integrative dermatology with Dr. Diana Hurwitz, co-author of "Strategies to Treat Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis." We hear about how her personal journey toward embracing diet and supplements for her patients with skin problems was motivated by the discovery—after many missed diagnoses—that she was suffering from celiac disease. She finds that many skin conditions are ameliorated by elimination of culprit foods, and the overall adoption of an anti-inflammatory diet. Dr. Hurwitz discusses treatment for acne, in light of the fact that while dermatologists are 1% of medical specialists, they dispense 20% of the antibiotics prescribed overall. She updates us on the latest “biologic” medicines for eczema and psoriasis, but claims they work better when complemented with lifestyle changes. Dr. Hurwitz discusses the role of vitamin D, Omega 3s, and probiotics for many skin conditions, as well as niacinamide which reduces recurrence of skin cancer; she also addresses sunscreens and scar treatments.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Diana Hurwitz, co-author of "Strategies to Treat Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis: Everything You Wish Your Doctor Had Told You."

US dementia cases set to double by 2060; Study claims red meat a culprit in cognitive decline—but a close read reveals it’s a lot of baloney; Aerobic exercise is best hedge against Alzheimer’s; Prevagen ordered to drop memory claims; When a blood pressure cuff is too tight, can it throw off readings? An 80-year-old who takes DHEA wants to add pregnenolone; Oregon hospital patient awarded $900,000 after face catches fire during surgery; LA residents may suffer health consequences of pollutants long after wildfires quenched.

Intermittent fasting with early (9:00-5:00) eating window works best for weight loss, blood sugar control; Beleaguered California Governor Newsom at least gets it right with initiative to curb ultra-processed food, dyes, sugar; Can supplements still be used after their expiration dates? Long-term use of acid-blockers hikes heart risks in women; Quality of patient care threatened by private equity takeovers of hospitals; A tiny camera that you swallow reveals problems lurking deep within the small intestine; High fructose corn syrup fuels tumor growth; RFK Jr. faces congressional grilling next week.

Foods and Lifestyle Changes to Manage High Blood Pressure: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses effective ways to manage high blood pressure through simple lifestyle changes and dietary choices. She highlights the importance of achieving a healthy weight and outlines how foods like beets, celery, pistachios, asparagus, sweet potatoes, and salmon can support healthy blood pressure levels. Leyla also emphasizes the need to avoid processed foods, excess sodium, and alcohol, presenting a comprehensive approach to improving cardiovascular health.

Highlights from Dr. Hoffman's west coast bike tripStudy: Light flickering promotes sleep and may protect the brain from dementiaCould a person be low in omega-6 fats?Do you recommend my husband and I get the latest shingles vaccine?

What is your take on DMSO?I'm taking Zetia and Crestor and have familial hypercholesterolemia. Can I eat saturated fat?I think I have demodex mite infestation. My doctor says almost everyone has it and they don't cause issues. What say you?Why do I have to stop taking my supplements before hip replacement surgery?

Exploring Vaccine Injuries and Their Implications: Caroline Pover is an award-winning author and public speaker based in the UK. She discusses the highly relevant and timely topic of vaccine injuries, focusing on Caroline's personal experiences and the story of Breanne Dressen, a clinical trial participant who has suffered significant adverse reactions after receiving the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. Caroline shares insights from her new book, "Worth a Shot?," which chronicles Dressen's journey and the hidden challenges faced by those experiencing vaccine side effects. They delve into the complexities of vaccine injury reporting, the implications of vaccine mandates, and how social media censorship affects the vaccine-injured community. The discussion also touches on potential lifestyle and medical approaches for managing vaccine injuries, emphasizing a compassionate and comprehensive perspective on the issue.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Caroline Pover, author of "Worth a Shot?: Secrets of the Clinical Trial Participant Who Inspired a Global Movement―Brianne Dressen's Story."

Self-professed “psychonaut” Matt Zemon discusses his book “Psychedelics for Everyone: A Beginner’s Guide to these Powerful Medicines for Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, PTSD, and Expanding Consciousness." Removing the stigma around psychedelics—emerging science is demonstrating their utility for a variety of psychiatric conditions. Psilocybin, ayahuasca, ketamine, ibogaine, peyote and others are regaining currency among innovative health professionals. Zemon describes how these might work—by opening new avenues of consciousness and rejiggering neurotransmitters. We discuss safety and optimal guidelines for use. Unfortunately, prescribing is limited by draconian and antiquated drug laws. Zemon maintains what’s needed are legal avenues for obtaining properly regulated medications delivered in ideal settings.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Matt Zemon, author of “Psychedelics for Everyone: A Beginner’s Guide to these Powerful Medicines for Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, PTSD, and Expanding Consciousness."

Rethinking fluoridation; Riboflavin improves cognitive performance in older adults; Podiatrists highlight foot problems associated with Crocs; Mom’s pregnancy diet impacts brain size, intelligence of offspring; This year’s flu shot underperforms (why I’m a flu shot agnostic); Are there alternatives to Eloquis?

The tricky business of boosting vitamin D; New doubts over prospect of extending lifespan to 150; Reduced sitting time found to curb back pain; GSK settles Zantac lawsuits for $2.2 billion; Incorrect arm position may lead to false elevation in blood pressure readings.