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

Dr. Angela Stanton, herself a migraineur, harnessed her extensive knowledge of biochemistry and physiology to discover a root cause of migraines: electrolyte imbalance. Applying simple dietary interventions, she controlled her migraines, and has shared the benefits of her innovative protocol with numerous migraineurs via her free resources as well as her best-selling book "Fighting the Migraine Epidemic: Complete Guide; How to Treat and Prevent Migraines Without Medications." How does Dr. Stanton’s approach differ from the traditional migraine diet? What role does sodium play in migraines? Why is a keto or even carnivore diet curative for some migraine sufferers? Why are the benefits of migraine drugs limited? How is research into this promising paradigm progressing?

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Angela Stanton, author of “Fighting the Migraine Epidemic: A Complete Guide.”

Dr. Bill Rawls, author of "The Cellular Wellness Solution," joins us to discuss the role of herbal supplements in natural medicine. He prefers to use herbs, not merely as individual panaceas, like the way we deploy drugs to alleviate symptoms, but rather as part of a comprehensive strategy comprising lifestyle to optimize cellular wellness. Dr. Rawls relates how a personal health crisis impelled him to seek natural solutions. He dishes on supplement quality and how consumers can safely access the benefits of quality nutraceuticals. We focus on herbal supplements for immunity, PMS and menopause, inflammation, GI conditions, and cognitive health. Dr. Rawls explains the key role adaptogens play. He reassures us that, with proper knowledge, harmful herb-drug interactions can be avoided.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Bill Rawls, author of "The Cellular Wellness Solution."

Meta-analysis shows NO excessive bleeding problems with Omega-3s; Fish oil found safe for surgery; Dupixent for nasal polyps? Remedies for SIBO (small intestine bacterial overgrowth) in a type 1 diabetic; Less than 5% of the world’s population reside in the U.S.—but we consume 65% of the medications! Dr. Oz heart device under scrutiny; Oregon court reverses liability shield for Bayer in Round-Up class action; Movie Review—“Pain Hustlers”, a fictionalized recreation of a real-life opioid medication scandal.

Study that claimed herbal supplements were devoid of active ingredients debunked; Can IV vitamin C help with blood-borne infections? Just 30 minutes of exercise boosts cancer-fighting white blood cells; The paradoxical effects of diet on a little-known but important cardiovascular risk factor—lp(a); A quarter century of research supports heart benefits of Coenzyme Q10; Is the glycemic index (GI) obsolete? Medicare Advantage pushes $50B in fake diagnoses.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin details various diet therapies for managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), focusing on the Low FODMAP diet and gluten-free options. Leyla explains the types of IBS (constipation-predominant and diarrhea-predominant), and provides a detailed list of foods to eliminate and suitable alternatives. She emphasizes the importance of self-preparation of meals and identifies common dietary culprits that exacerbate IBS symptoms. The episode also covers the short-term nature of the FODMAP diet and the need for gradual reintroduction of foods, alongside the holistic approach of assessing supplements, medications, and lifestyle factors that contribute to IBS.

A deep dive on peanuts and peanut butter; What is your take on the new Ornish study of a vegan diet for Alzheimer's?

I have tried everything but I can't seem to get off of famotidine (Pepcid) for my heartburn; If I have Barrett's esophagus and take famotidine, should I still take HCl?; Can I take Calocurb at night to avoid nighttime snacking?; I had a recent hip replacement and have osteoporosis. Any recommendations?; Can you talk about the new guidelines for prescribing statins?

The importance of personalized nutrition with Corinne Bush, CEO of the American Nutrition Association (ANA) and a Certified Nutrition Specialist. The ANA's mission is to promote health through personalized nutrition via the various educational programs and resources they offer for both healthcare professionals and the public. Key topics include the benefits and complexities of personalized nutrition, the use of the ketogenic diet, nutrigenomics, and the importance of boosting nutrition literacy in America. She also highlights the ANA's special course, “Getting Started with Personalized Nutrition.” Whether you're a nutrition enthusiast or simply an individual looking to improve your well-being, check out this comprehensive new course from the American Nutrition Association. It’s a self-paced, one-hour course with video, reference sheets, and more! All with the goal of helping you harness the power of personalized nutrition. You’ll learn how to optimize your energy levels, support your mental clarity, improve your G-I function, enhance your physical performance, and maintain your metabolic health. The course is regularly $49. But, as an Intelligent Medicine listener, you can get access to this vital content for just $29. Just use coupon code hoffman29 for the exclusive discount.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Corinne Bush, CEO of the American Nutrition Association and a Certified Nutrition Specialist.

Recently, headlines have proclaimed that vitamin D is ineffective, that we shouldn’t bother testing for it, and that most people shouldn’t bother taking it. Pushing back on those assertions is Dr. William Grant, one of the world’s foremost vitamin D researchers with over 60 published studies. His latest paper explains why research on vitamin D is plagued by methodological errors and colored by bias against nutritional supplements that might supplant pharmaceutical drugs. Dr. Grant explains how vitamin D, far from being just a “bone vitamin”, can impact a wide range of conditions ranging from dementia and Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mood disorders, and cancer; studies have shown it improves pregnancy outcomes and extends life; the latest research suggests a benefit for respiratory infections and Covid. We also discuss the important role sunlight exposure plays in vitamin D synthesis, and how wrong-headed health authorities have stigmatized sun exposure to great detriment. What levels are best? How much to take? Is there an upper limit? Dr. Grant is currently the director of the Sunlight, Nutrition, and Health Resource Center.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. William Grant, one of the world’s foremost vitamin D researchers.

Turning Back the Clock on Aging Muscles. Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the incredible benefits of exercise for aging muscles and overall health. She highlights research showing that exercise can reprogram muscle fibers to a more youthful state, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and improves general well-being. She delves into different types of exercises, such as strength training, swimming, walking, and HIIT, and underscores the importance of maintaining a balanced exercise routine. Additionally, she explores the critical role of adequate protein intake and the emerging science of myokines in muscle and whole-body health.

Happy Fourth of July!; I was diagnosed with ITP which is now in remission. What can I do for the bruises that never go away?; Is it the "Spike" that we should not like?; I have stomach discomfort accompanied by a slight headache every night for the last five years.

I'm taking Emgality for migraine but it doesn't seem to help any longer. What do you think of CBD?; Is there a connection between taking Synthroid and edema?; How would I find a functional medicine physician on Long Island?; Is there a such thing as a holistic endocrinologist?; When I mention I have Covid long hauler's, I get stares.

Exploring Functional Sobriety: Nutrition's Role in Alcohol Reduction: Dr. Brooke Scheller, a certified nutrition specialist and author of “How to Eat to Change How You Drink: Heal Your Gut, Mend Your Mind, and Improve Nutrition to Change Your Relationship with Alcohol,” discusses the significant nutritional aspects of alcohol consumption. She delves into the impacts of alcohol on health, the nutritional deficiencies it causes, and how a structured diet can support recovery. Dr. Scheller shares her personal journey to sobriety, the concept of functional sobriety, and practical advice on managing alcohol cravings through diet and supplements. She also discusses societal trends in drinking, gender differences in alcohol's effects, and strategies for reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption for better health outcomes.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Brooke Scheller, Founder, Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, Functional Sobriety, and author of “How to Eat to Change How You Drink: Heal Your Gut, Mend Your Mind, and Improve Nutrition to Change Your Relationship with Alcohol.”

Zen Honeycutt, Founding Executive Director of Moms Across America, exposes the alarming truth about glyphosate in a detailed discussion on food safety and environmental toxins. Zen shares her personal journey of founding the organization and discusses the adverse effects of GMOs and glyphosate on health, particularly children's health. She highlights concerning findings from various food tests, including school lunches and gluten-free foods, and explains the systemic issues within regulatory agencies. The conversation also touches upon the broader implications of environmental toxins, global health regulations, and potential solutions within communities.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Zen Honeycutt, Founding Executive Director of the national nonprofit Moms Across America.

Women’s health update: Mammograms newly-mandated for all women over 40, and the profound brain effects of hysterectomy; Adverse effects of overzealous prescribing of sleep meds—massive weight gain and thyroid dysfunction? Health authorities can’t decide whether ultra-processed foods are harmful—but new study shows they worsen prognosis for cancer survivors; Low-fat plant-based diet advocate dies at 77; Supplements to hasten recovery from fractures (think turmeric!); When seniors need to worry if heart rate hikes during exercise.

Is your yard a toxic Superfund site? Sick chimpanzees instinctively seek out medicinal herbs when sick; Are allergy shots worth it? Paxlovid flops for COVID pneumonia; Fish oil for hip arthritis; The verdict on Splenda; Which is better for brain health—whey protein or resistance exercise, or both? Do we all need more fiber?

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the epidemic of low testosterone in men and its associated health risks, referencing a systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. She explains the causes of low testosterone, including obesity, lifestyle factors, and certain medications like statins. Leyla also highlights the importance of lifestyle changes in managing chronic diseases and the global movement towards lifestyle medicine, underscored by the recent Doha Declaration advocating for lifestyle medicine as a transformative healthcare approach.

The importance of muscle mass; What is the meaning of IgG, IgA and IgM. I'm concerned about my immune system; How do you feel about Black Seed Oil for immune support?

I have Parkinson's and I notice my medication has yellow dyes in it. Can't these be manufactured without artificial colors?; Can you recommend a good joint supplement I can take for the rest of my life?; I've been diagnosed with 14 high risk HPV types. What supplements can I take to mitigate risk?; Can lipase enzymes break down trans fats in our food?; I take 5 grams daily of creatine monohydrate. Should I take more for brain health?; I have overactive bladder but I'm reluctant to go on medication. Any recommendations?

Dr. Lindsey Berkson is a world-renowned expert on hormone replacement therapy. She shares her journey as a DES baby with multiple endocrine challenges, including reproductive cancers. Through exhaustive research she overcame her problems and enjoys high functioning at an age where many women are in steep decline. She discusses various forms of hormone replacement, why conventional ideas about menopause treatment are misguided, how supplements can enhance the safety and efficacy of hormone replacement, and the impact of dietary factors like soy. She has written extensively about the effects of hormone disruptors on women’s health. Check out her membership program, Everything Hormones, and her Substack, Agile Thinking.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Lindsey Berkson is a world-renowned expert on hormone replacement therapy.

Dr. Edward Walker, a scientist from the New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research, details the rigorous research process behind Calocurb, a natural product aimed at curbing appetite and fighting obesity. Dr. Walker explains how his team identified and formulated Amarasate, a compound derived from New Zealand hops, which mimics the appetite-suppressing effects of certain gastrointestinal hormones like GLP-1. The conversation also covers the evolution of the product, the scientific studies confirming its efficacy, and practical considerations for its use. They further delve into the challenges and potentials of using natural alternatives to pharmaceutical weight loss drugs.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Edward Walker, a scientist and lecturer with The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, a New Zealand Crown Research Institute. He helped discover and develop Amarasate, the active ingredient in Calocurb.

“5:2” intermittent fasting outperforms diabetes drugs; Celebrity UK diet doc—proponent of intermittent fasting—tragically dies at 67 while hiking mountainous terrain on Greek holiday; Is L-serine good or bad for the brain? What’s the latest on the fish oil/cardiovascular disease controversy? Most Ozempic users quit before attaining weight loss goals; Benefits of Calocurb for weight loss. In turnaround, testosterone NOT found to hike cardio risk; Men with low T suffer early death; CBD chews combat anxiety, joint problems in pets.

“Ultra-Processed Foods DO NOT Cause Obesity” claims latest study from top U.S. diet policy makers; Florida Congresswoman takes aim at high-fructose corn syrup, food dyes in proposed bill; What’s the best natural sunscreen? Why is there DPA in fish oil—and is it beneficial? A caller’s doctor poo-poos vitamin D’s benefits for immunity; Natural support for GERD; Alzheimer’s slowed by lifestyle intervention in first-of-its-kind trial; Campaigns against misinformation backfire—by making people distrust legitimate information; Pentagon funds $450 million experimental project to deliver lab-grown meat to troops to “lower carbon footprint”.

The Connection Between Community Mobility, Exercise, and Cognitive Health. Nutritionist Leyla Muedin weighs in on the impact of community, mobility and exercise on cognitive function and overall health. She reviews recent studies, including one from the Journal of the American Geriatric Society, highlighting how greater community and mobility can be associated with better cognitive function, and another study from the journal Aging Cell that demonstrates exercise’s beneficial effects on brain health at the cellular level in mice. Additionally, Leyla discusses the harmful effects of air pollution on brain health and the importance of a holistic approach, emphasizing both physical activity and healthy lifestyle choices to mitigate cognitive decline and improve well-being.

Mask confusion is reigning in New York; A case of high dose curcumin in the treatment of kidney disease and psoriasis; Nystatin therapy for the treatment of candida.

What kind of sweetener can I use in my daily coffee and tea?; I have an asymptomatic urinary tract infection. Must I take an antibiotic?; I've been on a low carb diet for 16 months. When will my diabetes go away?; I recently had hip surgery and want to take care of my joints. What supplements do you recommend?; Do you have a recommendation for my pet's joint health too?; How can I treat or manage emphysema?

Alex Martinez, CEO and co-founder of Intrinsic Medicine reveals the potential of utilizing human milk biology, specifically the microbiome and human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), to address various medical challenges such as Parkinson's disease, autism spectrum disorder, irritable bowel syndrome, Alzheimer's disease, and inflammatory bowel disease. Alex shares his journey from being an attorney to starting a therapeutics company focused on the innovative use of human milk's properties. The conversation also delves into the science behind HMOs, their evolutionary significance, and their potential impact on the microbiome and immune system. This episode provides insights into the cutting-edge research and the promising future of natural, less toxic, and cost-effective therapeutic solutions.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Alex Martinez, the CEO and co-founder of Intrinsic Medicine, a therapeutics company leveraging human milk biology to transform Gut-Immune-Brain Axis (GIBA) disorders such as Parkinson’s, Autism Spectrum Disorder, IBS, Alzheimer’s, and IBD, among other illnesses.

Although cardiovascular disease is usually thought of as a man’s disease, almost as many women die each year of heart problems. Jane Jansen, a naturopathic practitioner from the Tree of Life Wellness Center in Massachusetts brings a unique perspective with her extensive background in cardiovascular labs and non-invasive cardiology. She sheds light on the gender disparities in cardiovascular research, the critical periods for women's heart health, especially during perimenopause and menopause, and the evolving understanding of hormone replacement therapy. The episode highlights the importance of early diagnosis, lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, and the benefits of specific supplements like aged garlic extract. Jansen addresses the underestimation of women's cardiovascular risks compared to breast cancer and offer practical advice on managing stress and improving sleep quality. This comprehensive conversation aims to break stereotypes and provide actionable insights for better heart health among women.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Naturopathic Practitioner, Jane Jansen of the Tree of Life Wellness Center in Massachusetts.

As weight-loss meds surge in popularity, BigPharma builds pipeline of even more potent, pricey drugs—questions arise as to their sustainability, cost-effectiveness; 93 million Americans may be candidates for them, at an annual price tag of $600 billion; Tufts nutrition chief calls for 12-18 month limits on their use, conditioning their prescription on mandatory behavior modification for weight loss maintenance; German man opts for 217 Covid shots—researchers claim he’s still “fine”; Alpha lipoic acid for diabetic neuropathy; Does Motrin affect the liver? Consumer alert over “free” urinary catheter scams.

NYU doctor dies of anaphylactic shock after deadly food allergens not disclosed at Disney eatery; Pharmaceutical company fined $264 million for lifesaving Epi-Pen price-gouging; Nasal spray alternative to injectable epinephrine canceled over efficacy concerns; How microbiome imbalances predict food allergy susceptibility; Alternatives to expensive creams for bothersome skin rashes; Is krill oil compatible with blood thinners like Eloquis? Continuous glucose monitors cleared for over-the-counter sale without prescription; Hawthorne for congestive heart failure; Can high-dose vitamin D forestall juvenile onset diabetes? Microplastics and heart disease; FDA issues “qualified health claim” for yogurt as hedge against Type 2 diabetes.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin explores the often overlooked topic of natural toxins in food. Drawing insights from the Integrative Medicine Journal, she discusses how plants protect themselves with chemical compounds that can pose health risks. She also delves into survey results from the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, revealing public awareness and concerns about these natural toxins compared to synthetic contaminants. The episode highlights the ongoing debate about the safety of consuming certain plant foods and the popularity of diets like the carnivore movement, which seek to avoid these natural plant compounds.

Can you please discuss the xylitol and cardiovascular risk study? Do I have to stop using xylitol spray, mouthwash and gum now? What about DGL?; I've been diagnosed with Atrial fibrillation. What do you think of Pulsed Field Ablation?; I have Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy. What would you recommend?; I'm 5' 2" and 185 lbs. Would I benefit from Calocurb?

What do you think of IV drip lounges? When would I use them? Do I need a doctor's prescription?; What supplements can I take to lower HS-CRP?; Is appetite physical or mental? It seems a lot of times I'm not hungry but I can't control my eating; How do you know if your GERD is from too much or too little stomach acid?

Dr. Alan Gaby comments on bias against nutritional supplements. He recently penned an op-ed entitled “They’re telling us that nutritional supplements are a waste of money”. He is the author of the textbook “Nutritional Medicine” which contains thousands of references to studies substantiating the benefits of supplements. Is there collusion between the pharmaceutical industry, government regulators, politicians, and compliant media to rein in the supplement industry? Why has the press uncritically focussed on the alleged harms of supplements? What’s wrong with studies claiming lack of efficacy of multivitamins, fish oil, and vitamin D? Dr. Gaby takes an even-handed approach, citing instances of over-arching claims about nutrients; he urges “humility” and scientific rigor in nutrition science, and decries the missed opportunity for study of the promising roles of diet, lifestyle, and nutraceuticals afforded by our quest for measures to control the pandemic.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Alan Gaby, author of the textbook “Nutritional Medicine."

Dr. Cate Shanahan, author of “Dark Calories: How Vegetable Oils Destroy Our Health and How We Can Get It Back,” details the controversy surrounding vegetable oils, arguing they are harmful and contribute to a host of health issues. She elaborates on her scientific findings and personal journey that led her to this conclusion. The conversation covers the historical promotion of vegetable oils by organizations like the American Heart Association, which Dr. Shanahan claims was based on unfounded evidence. They also discuss the prevalence of these oils in our diet, their impact on obesity and metabolic syndrome, and their role in oxidative stress and inflammation. The episode provides practical advice on eliminating harmful oils from one's diet and highlights healthier alternatives.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Cate Shanahan, Scientist, family physician, and author of "DARK CALORIES: How Vegetable Oils Destroy Our Health and How We Get It Back."

The seed oil controversy—toxic poison or harmless bystander? Is my medication raising my blood sugar? Mulberry extract vs. diabetes; Amarasate—a natural GLP-1 enhancer that can curb cravings, reduce appetite.

New study shows Ozempic associated with need for anti-depressants; When antibiotics aren’t enough—strategies for treating prostatitis; Do genes increase likelihood of autoimmune disorders? Can gene profiles guide medical nutrition therapy? Election year copouts—is the White House courting Black and youth voters by rescinding bans on menthol cigarettes and Juul vapes? How a former Surgeon General found himself stuck with a $10,000 bill for a short ER visit.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin delves into the Microbiome Theory of Aging as outlined in Dr. Ross Pelton's article from the Integrative Medicine Clinician's Journal. The series explores the connection between gut health, dysbiosis, and aging, highlighting the role of dietary fibers and polyphenols in feeding probiotic bacteria to produce beneficial postbiotic metabolites. It also discusses zonulin's role in intestinal permeability, the negative impacts of the standard American diet on microbiome health, and the importance of a diverse plant-based diet for nurturing a healthy microbiome. Additionally, the episode critiques the efficacy of commercial probiotics versus the benefits of postbiotics and introduces postbiotic metabolites as an emerging, effective approach to improving gut health and overall wellness.