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

The cholesterol conundrum: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses recent research suggesting that HDL, or 'good' cholesterol, may protect against brain atrophy and dementia. The study from UT Southwestern Medical Center, published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, found that higher concentrations of small particle HDL are linked to better cognitive function and greater gray matter volume. Leyla emphasizes the importance of understanding cholesterol's role beyond just heart health and challenges common misconceptions. She also highlights the benefits of dietary fats and criticizes outdated medical advice that promotes low-fat diets. This episode encourages a more nuanced view of cholesterol and its significant impact on overall health.

Report: US will trail other nations in life expectancy by 2030Obesity rates a contributing factor to decreased life expectancy in the USWhat are your views about the use of AMPK?

What dosage of Nicotinamide Riboside is optimal in increasing mitochondrial biogenesis?I've been treated for SIBO in the past but haven't yet tried rifaximin. Do you recommend it?Is the choline in eggs causing thousands of people to suddenly form blood clots?Is the EBCT still the most accurate, least-radiation-exposure test for coronary calcification?How many milligrams of SAMe do you recommend for depression?

Menopause can pose severe challenges to women: hot flashes, cognitive impairment, sleep problems, and sexual difficulties, often compounded by weight gain. ObGyn Dr. Anna Cabeca is schooled in mainstream medicine but has added a natural medicine repertoire to her practice. She recounts how she learned to overcome her own devastating symptoms of early menopause. She believes that diets need to be individualized for menopausal women. Find her quiz to determine your menopause type at www.DrAnna.com/mpquiz. We discuss the role of supplements and bio-identical hormone replacement to augment tailored diets. Her book, "MenuPause: Five Unique Eating Plans to Break Through Your Weight Loss Plateau and Improve Mood, Sleep, and Hot Flashes," highlights the role variations on the keto diet and intermittent fasting can play in alleviating menopause symptoms and reversing mid-life weight gain.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with ObGyn Dr. Anna Cabeca, author of "MenuPause: Five Unique Eating Plans to Break Through Your Weight Loss Plateau and Improve Mood, Sleep, and Hot Flashes."

Guest Dr. Stephen Hussey, a chiropractor and functional medicine practitioner, discusses the importance and impact of a metabolic revolution. Dr. Hussey shares his personal journey of overcoming inflammatory conditions and managing type 1 diabetes through lifestyle changes, focusing on diet and functional medicine principles. The discussion highlights the flaws in conventional medical approaches to chronic diseases and the need for a holistic view of health. Emphasizing the benefits of a low-carb diet and the potential detrimental effects of excessive insulin, the episode explores the benefits of metabolic flexibility. The conversation also introduces the initiative MetabolicRevolution.org, which aims to demand better health guidelines from government agencies, urging a focus on research-based recommendations and reducing industry influence. Dr. Hussey's insights underscore the potential for personal health transformations and advocate for systemic changes to improve public health.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Stephen Hussey MS, DC, from MetabolicRevolution.org.

Announcing the return of Intelligent Medicine to WOR 710 AM in New York City—its original home where the show debuted in 1988! Which is better—being thin or being fit? Why you shouldn’t succumb to pitches for “free” medical devices from Medicare; Does toasting bread make it carcinogenic? Belgium takes lead in protecting the “Anxious Generation” by banning cell phones in schools; The remarkable health benefits of urolithin A (Mitopure®️).

“Active holistic therapy” for prostate cancer with diet and fish oil helps defer need for surgery, hormone blockade, radiation; Why 70 is the new 60; Long-term harmful effects of acid-blockers; Do memory supplements pass the blood-brain barrier? Fish oil, krill oil, olive oil for cardiovascular prevention; Paxlovid aggressively promoted but overprescribed for otherwise healthy patients.

Nutritional Insights for a Healthy New Year: Breakfast Ideas and Metabolic Health: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the importance of a protein and fat-rich breakfast to stabilize blood sugar levels. She emphasizes the metabolic benefits of avoiding carbohydrate-heavy meals in the morning and shares various breakfast ideas that are convenient and nutritious, such as protein shakes, cottage cheese, hard-boiled eggs, and leftovers from previous meals. Leyla also highlights the impact of diet on menstrual health, citing studies showing how ketogenic diets can regulate menstrual cycles and treat conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Listeners are encouraged to adopt these dietary habits for better overall health and well-being in the new year.

Update on another supplement: MacaA book recommendation: "The Anxious Generation"A comment from a listener about Trump's nomination for Surgeon GeneralHasn't the vaccine/autism link been thoroughly debunked?How much Mitopure should I take to help increase muscle mass?

My husband's doctor is recommending a statin even though his lipid panel is great. What say you?Anti-vaccine doctor wins bid to resume medical practice in Australia.Do I need to take vitamin D3 and K2 together? Can I take them at different times of day?My liver function tests are normal but my SMA test remains high. What do I make of this?

Understanding Constipation: Carmen Fong, MD, FACS, author of “CONSTIPATION NATION: What to Know When You Can’t Go,” discusses the pressing issue of constipation. The conversation delves into the definition and causes of constipation, the importance of diet, hydration, and regular bowel habits, and misconceptions around the condition. Dr. Fong shares insights on natural remedies, modern treatments, and factors contributing to early-onset colorectal cancer. The episode also covers hemorrhoid treatments and new medical advances in constipation management.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Carmen Fong, MD, FACS, author of “CONSTIPATION NATION: What to Know When You Can’t Go.”

Headlines are sounding alarms over the widespread use of melatonin—especially as a sleep aid for young kids. Dr. Deanna Minich has authored a comprehensive review of melatonin, in which she likens it to vitamin D in its potential utility for a variety of ailments—not just for insomnia and jet lag, but also for metabolic syndrome and diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, brain disorders, autoimmune conditions, eye problems, tinnitus, PCOS, endometriosis, infertility, viral infections, and even ADHD and autism. Additionally, melatonin may confer anti-aging benefits. She affirms its overall safety, but cautions that some formulations are sketchy and may contain contaminants or vastly exceed or undershoot their claimed melatonin content. She discusses how modern life, with its ever-present artificial light, shift work, and travel across time zones may disrupt our circadian rhythms and put us in a state of darkness deprivation, with consequent melatonin depletion. For many conditions less is more, and use in children should be limited to special cases. Dr. Minich also emphasizes that lifestyle factors like properly timed light and darkness exposure, blue blocker glasses and screen apps, exercise and diet are cornerstones to optimal melatonin production, with melatonin supplements constituting only part of a holistic approach.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Deanna Minich who authored a comprehensive review of melatonin.

Commemorating 38th year of Intelligent Medicine; A pricey prostate drug advertised on football games may extend life for mere months without promise of cure; You dutifully threw out your “toxic” black plastic spatulas—was it faulty math? Air pollution robs marathoners of record times—and may be responsible for deaths of millions; Indian man, declared dead, taken to hospital after awakening on funeral pyre.

Doctors fleeing Medicare—leaving patients stranded; CEO murder heightens scrutiny of United Healthcare’s Medicare Advantage coding shenanigans; Can blood pressure spikes cause strokes? Does a calcium score of 20 call for a statin Rx? Treatments for postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS); New “improved” tea bags release millions of plastic microparticles; The surprising trigger of a bout of hives.

The Importance of Regenerative Agriculture: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the concept of regenerative agriculture in response to a listener’s question. She explains how regenerative agriculture goes beyond organic practices by enhancing soil quality and promoting a healthier ecosystem. Leyla covers various methods such as composting, crop rotation, and water management, emphasizing the importance of soil health in producing nutrient-dense food and combating global warming. She also highlights the economic advantages of regenerative practices and encourages listeners to support local farmers engaged in sustainable agriculture.

In this special New Year's edition Q&A Dr. Ronald Hoffman and Nutritionist Leyla Muedin share their personal supplement regimens for 2025. They discuss the variety of supplements they take, including multivitamins, specific minerals, omega-3s, anti-inflammatories, probiotics, and immune-supportive nutrients. They also emphasize the importance of personalized nutrition and caution listeners against directly mirroring their supplement routines. The episode includes advice on seasonal adjustments to supplementation, the benefits of different nutrient combinations, and general tips for maintaining a balanced approach to supplement intake. Dr. Hoffman and Leyla also touch on their personal health goals and the rationale behind their choices, offering listeners insights into optimizing their own supplement strategies.

Dr. Ronald Hoffman and Nutritionist Leyla Muedin continue their reveal of the supplements they personally take.

Is the US diet deadly?Why do I always have a fast pulse? It ranges between 85-110I took Candibactin BR and AR with great success. Where do I go from here--a maintenance dose?

Should my stepson take a genetic test to evaluate his risk for pancreatic cancer?I had abdominal surgery last month. What can I do or take to minimize scarring?I have dry mouth. What treatments can I use to restore saliva?Could metoprolol be contributing to my restless legs syndrome?I've been diagnosed with a chemical imbalance and prescribed Zyprexa. What are your thoughts?

Highlights from Dr. Hoffman's trip to LithuaniaIs there a brand of Boswellia you recommend?I would like to start cooking with coconut oil. What do you recommend?What is the guide to taking strontium for bone health safely?Should I get the Shingrix vaccines after 4 covid shots and the annual flu shot?I've always had my T3 and T4 checked for my thyroid but never T2. How does it work?

Do I have to replace minerals when using a reverse osmosis water purifier?Is anyone tracking whether vaccinated or unvaccinated people are getting long covid?What supplements should not be taken with low-dose aspirin?;Can you talk about chelation therapy and cardiovascular disease?I want to get the right lamp for Seasonal Affective Disorder. What do you recommend?

“Dead butt syndrome”—you probably already have it; Over half of Americans with uncontrolled hypertension are unaware of their condition; Is a smartwatch app for continuous blood pressure monitoring ready for primetime? What are frequent causes of errors in blood pressure measurement? How long can you continue to take Prolia? What’s the likelihood of a colon adenoma turning cancerous? Metformin scores cognitive and anti-aging benefits in monkeys—human trials underway.

Is “Morgellon’s Disease” a figment of the imagination? Are reports of frequent liver problems with popular herbs unfairly alarmist? Diagnosing stomach pain; Harmful micro-organisms can travel hundreds of miles high in the atmosphere; Toxic condoms; Sales of herbal supplements soar—we breakdown the most popular; The three tests for cardiovascular risk that you absolutely need.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses intermittent fasting, specifically addressing whether skipping morning coffee affects metabolism. She explains different approaches to intermittent fasting, including Bulletproof Coffee and time-restricted eating (TRE). Leyla also delves into a study on the effectiveness of TRE in weight loss and cardiometabolic health, highlighting that eating within a specific time window (7am-3pm) led to greater weight loss and improved mood compared to a broader eating period. She emphasizes the importance of a minimum nightly fast of 12 hours for autophagy and overall health benefits.

Study: The impact of exercise on dementiaNicotinamide Riboside - does it increase cancer risk and metastasis?

How much of the flavanols do I lose by heating cocoa powder?My osteoporosis appears to be resolved with bone health nutrients and strontium. Should I continue taking them?Is melatonin indicated for osteoporosis? If so, at what dose?Is there any way of clearing the spike proteins from one's body after taking the jabs?Any recommendations on reducing the residual stiffness of polymyalgia rheumatica?

Study: Benefits of the combination of cardio and weight trainingWhat is your opinion on health trackers?My heart rate comes down quickly after exercise. Is that good or bad?What do you think about infrared mats? I have fibromyalgia and enjoy the heat.

Save our supplements!My dermatologist told me to moisturize my rash with Crisco! Isn't that hydrogenated?Are there natural ways to treat eczema and psoriasis?Can I stop taking statins or do I have to wean myself off?Is there a natural way to treat hyperparathyroidism?My friend just told me to stop taking vitamin D because it's toxic. What say you?

Jim LaValle, an internationally recognized clinical pharmacist, author, and lecturer, details the emerging field of peptide therapeutics. He discusses the basics of peptides, their roles in various bodily functions, and their therapeutic potentials, including weight loss, immune support, and injury recovery. Jim also shares insights on individualized dosage for GLP-1 drugs, regulatory challenges, the future of peptides in medicine, and exercise tips for seniors. Additionally, Dr. Hoffman explores Jim's role in spearheading the MIORA Longevity Program at Lifetime Gyms, aiming to make gyms not just places for workouts but comprehensive wellness centers focused on longevity and health optimization.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Jim LaValle, co-author of "Peptide Handbook: A Professional's Guide to Peptide Therapeutics."

2024–a year in review (America’s worsening health picture); Obesity and cancer incidence rise in U.S. while healthspan declines; First-of-its-kind lawsuit takes aim at ultra-processed food makers; Nutritional support for childhood developmental disorders; Dr. Mark Hyman, integrative pioneer, gets the New York Times treatment; Can a blood pressure medication cause canker sores? Curbing Omega-6s, boosting Omega-3s, improves prostate cancer outcomes.

New study says wine is good for heart after all—but should we drink more? How alcohol increases aggression by raising pain thresholds; Removing plastic chemicals can boost IQ, avert deaths, and save the world’s economy billions; Uterine thickening may be a prelude to endometrial cancer—can it be reversed? NIH study of green tea suggests it can; A new diagnosis of Sjögren’s syndrome has a caller spooked; Is the Internet making us dumber? Vitamin D in pregnancy gives kids stronger bones, but strikes out for diabetes prevention in healthy seniors; Dietary—but not supplemental—vitamin C curbs metabolic syndrome.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the significance of vitamin D, especially during the winter months in northern regions. She explains how the lack of sunlight exposure from October to April can lead to vitamin D deficiency, which is linked to various health issues including autoimmune diseases. Leyla emphasizes the importance of vitamin D for immune function, bone health, and overall well-being. She also offers practical tips on obtaining sufficient vitamin D through supplementation and dietary sources, as well as by safely getting sunlight exposure. The episode highlights recent research on the effects of vitamin D deficiency during childhood development and its potential long-term impacts on health.

WHO Study on lifespan vs. healthspan in 183 countriesIs there a danger in taking a supplement that enhances immunity if you have an autoimmune condition?I've had DCIS twice and feel I've received far too many mammograms. Can you discuss overtreatment?

What does standardization in a supplement mean?Does the decaffeination process reduce beneficial polyphenols in coffees and teas?I've lowered my blood sugar but now my liver function tests are high. What gives?Is there a holistic treatment for hyperparathyroidism or is surgery the only option?What do you think of Gemtesa for overactive bladder?

In this episode of the Intelligent Medicine Podcast, Dr. Ronald Hoffman discusses the importance of hydration with Dr. Dana Cohen Integrative Medical Doctor and co-author of “Fuel Up: Harness the Power of Your Blender and ‘Cheat’ Your Way to Good Health.” They explore the often-overlooked role hydration plays in maintaining health and preventing chronic diseases. Dr. Cohen emphasizes practical strategies to improve hydration through diet and lifestyle changes. They highlight the risks of both dehydration and overhydration, discuss the impact of processed foods, and offer realistic solutions to help listeners incorporate better hydration practices into their lives. Too often doctors are dismissive of pop culture exhortations to pay attention to hydration. Except for those with specific medical conditions, the conventional mantra remains “In ordinary healthy individuals, thirst is a good guide to how much fluid you should consume.” In medicine, we routinely query patients about their diets, their exercise, their sleep, their stress levels, drug, alcohol and tobacco use, their social interactions, their spirituality, even their sexuality. But so seldom do we ask “How’s your hydration?” A recent review found that “Hypohydration is known to reduce mental and physical performance, and more recent evidence suggests hypohydration also impairs vascular function and cardiovascular regulation.” But adequate fluid intake is not merely a matter of optimization; a recent medical study sampling 1200 adults aged 51-70 suggests that it may literally be a matter of life and death: “. . . underhydration was significantly associated with increased prevalence of obesity, high waist circumference, insulin resistance, diabetes, low HDL, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome. Over 3–6 years of follow-up, 33 chronic disease deaths occurred in the sample, representing an estimated 1,084,144 deaths in the U.S. Alongside chronic health conditions, underhydration was a risk factor for an estimated 863,305 deaths. Independent of the chronic health conditions evaluated, underhydration was a risk factor for 128,107 deaths.” How prevalent is underhydration in a sample of American adults? According to the study: “Nationally representative data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) indicate that over 65% of adults aged 51–70 years in the U.S. do not meet hydration criteria.” The episode also touches upon broader health issues, contrasting dietary extremes, and the importance of accessible, enjoyable healthy eating habits.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Dana Cohen, Integrative Medical Doctor and co-author of “Fuel Up: Harness the Power of Your Blender and ‘Cheat’ Your Way to Good Health.”

Dr. Michael Karlfeldt offers a deep dive into integrative oncology and the importance of immune support, especially during the winter season. he delves deep into the immune-protective benefits of fermented wheat germ extract and AHCC, which combine in ImmPower PLUS to offer comprehensive immune enhancement, cancer prevention, and treatment support. The discussion highlights the role of natural killer cell activity, the Warburg effect, and the adaptogenic properties of these supplements in addressing both cancer and general immune health. Practical dosing recommendations and Dr. Karlfeldt's insights into the integration of conventional and alternative therapies provide valuable knowledge on how to bolster immune systems effectively.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Michael Karlfeldt, ND, Ph.D., an expert in Integrative Oncology, about the immune-protective effects of ImmPower PLUS AHCC + FWGE-SC. Use coupon code HOFFMAN10 at checkout to get a 10% discount and free shipping.

Borrowing from tobacco industry litigation, law firm launches major suit against ultra-processed food conglomerates; Big Food employs same tactics as cigarette makers once did to delegitimize, intimidate critics; Are parasites the hidden culprit in cancer? Beers contain detectable levels of pesticides—as new evidence links glyphosate to neurodegenerative diseases; For some breast cancers, weight loss drugs may interfere with chemo efficacy; How to lower C-reactive protein? Ultra-processed foods contribute to psoriasis severity.

When hemoglobin A1c is inconsistent with fingerstick glucoses; A landmark study demonstrates improved muscle strength with urolithin A; Healthy diet can tamp down chronic pain; A mysterious new toxic compound detected in chlorinated water supplies; Long-term antibiotic use hikes risk for rheumatoid arthritis; Omega-3 scores vs. heart failure; Vegetarians consume more processed foods than those who consume meat; Best diet for prostate cancer.

Harnessing Yoga's Potential in Neuro Rehabilitation and the Gut-Brain Connection: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses a pilot study from Germany highlighting the benefits of integrating yoga into inpatient neuro rehabilitation for conditions like multiple sclerosis and stroke. The study shows significant improvements in pain, spasticity, anxiety, and overall quality of life. Additionally, Leyla explores the expanding research on the gut-brain axis, revealing how a healthy gut microbiome influences mental resilience and stress response. She emphasizes the importance of addressing both physiological and psychological factors to manage anxiety and improve mental health.

WSJ: Trump nominees 'hawking' supplements?Correction on Surgeon General Nominee Dr. Janette Nesheiwat's husbandI have chronic fatigue. Do you think I would benefit from taking a copper supplement?Can I take garlic pills to help my eosinophilic esophagitis?

I've been taking Nexium for the last 20 years. Is this contributing to lower bone mineral density?Should my 83-year-old wife take more calcium for her osteopenia?What is your knowledge of Prolia? What are the side effects?I have mitral annular disjunction (MAD). Can you advise me?What can I take for my post nasal drip?Are there other blood thinners I can take where I don't need to check my INR?

Lex Pelger, a biochemist and educator in cannabinoid science, details unique non-CBD supplements from CV Sciences that have similar beneficial effects on the endocannabinoid system as CBD. The discussion includes the benefits of CBD and cannabinoids, the new +PlusHLTH line (including Peace Gummies, Clarity Gummies, and Reshape Capsules), and their ingredients like berberine, cinnamon, and OEA for metabolic health. They also touch on regulatory challenges and the potential future of cannabis, CBD, and psychedelic research under varying political climates.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Lex Pelger, Scientist at CV Sciences, makers of the new +PlusHLTH line of non-CBD supplements that have similar effects on the endocannabinoid system.