Rare Wellness Podcast (by Center for Regenerative and Performance Medicine)

Vitamin D does way more than you think — and most people don't have enough. Dr. Lewis and Becca break down the science connecting vitamin D to pain, joint health, immunity, and autoimmune disease. Plus: injectable vitamin D, the Harvard VITAL trial, and why "normal" lab ranges aren't good enough.KEY SOURCESWu Z, et al. Vitamin D concentration and pain: systematic review and meta-analysis (81 studies, 50,000+ participants). Public Health Nutr. 2018. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1368980018000551Hahn J, et al. Vitamin D and omega-3 supplementation and incident autoimmune disease: VITAL randomized controlled trial (25,871 participants). BMJ. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj-2021-066452Rexhepi-Kelmendi B, et al. Vitamin D supplementation on disease activity and pain in rheumatoid arthritis: randomized double-blinded controlled study. BMC Rheumatol. 2025. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41927-025-00543-6OA Initiative database analysis: vitamin D and knee osteoarthritis pain. Sci Rep. 2024. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-81845-6Oral vs. intramuscular vitamin D replacement in adults with deficiency. J Clin Diagn Res. 2016. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5240054/TARGET-D trial: tailored vitamin D dosing and recurrent heart attack risk. Presented at AHA Scientific Sessions 2025, New Orleans. https://newsroom.heart.org

Starting a GLP-1 medication like semaglutide or tirzepatide? Dr. Jamie Lewis and Becca Pabona, RN tackle the seven questions patients ask most — from side effects and "Ozempic face" to hair loss, fatigue, food noise, and what really happens when you stop. They break down the actual clinical trial data, explain why individualized microdosing produces better outcomes than one-size-fits-all protocols, and share the strategies their clinic uses to preserve muscle, prevent nutrient deficiencies, and build a foundation that lasts beyond the medication. Backed by 20 peer-reviewed references including data from the STEP trials, ENDO 2025, and the largest real-world GLP-1 cohort studies to date.

Dr Lewis and Becca explore what you need to look for when choosing a GLP-1 Clinic.REFERENCESWilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, et al. Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. N Engl J Med. 2021;384:989-1002. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2032183Ashraf AR, Mackey TK, Schmidt J, et al. Safety and risk assessment of no-prescription online semaglutide purchases. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(8):e2428280. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.28280Brown A, et al. Bridging the nutrition guidance gap for GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy assisted weight loss: lessons from bariatric surgery. International Journal of Obesity (Nature). 2025. doi:10.1038/s41366-025-01952-wWilding JPH, et al. Impact of semaglutide on body composition in adults with overweight or obesity: exploratory analysis of the STEP 1 study. J Endocr Soc. 2021;5(Suppl 1):A16-A17. doi:10.1210/jendso/bvab048.030Eshima H, et al. Unexpected effects of semaglutide on skeletal muscle mass and force-generating capacity in mice. Cell Metabolism. 2025. doi:10.1016/j.cmet.2025.07.006 [Note: cited for STEP 1 lean mass data contextualization]Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Davies M, et al. Weight regain and cardiometabolic effects after withdrawal of semaglutide: the STEP 1 trial extension. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2022;24(8):1553-1564. doi:10.1111/dom.14725Metabolic rebound after GLP-1 receptor agonist discontinuation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. eClinicalMedicine (The Lancet). 2025. doi:10.1016/S2589-5370(25)00614-5GLP-1 agonists and exercise: the future of lifestyle prioritization. Frontiers in Clinical Diabetes and Healthcare. 2025. doi:10.3389/fcdhc.2025.1720794Tinsley GM, et al. Preservation of lean soft tissue during weight loss induced by GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists: a case series. PMC. 2025. (Texas Tech University IRB2025-79)Peralta-Reich D, et al. Resistance training and protein intake may lower GLP-1 RA muscle loss. Presented at conference, 2025. Reported in Medscape Medical News, April 15, 2025.Muñoz-Garach A, et al. Role of Vitamin D in Insulin Resistance. PMC/Nutrients. 2019. doi:10.3390/nu11061550Lei X, Zhou Q, Wang Y, et al. Serum and supplemental vitamin D levels and insulin resistance in T2DM populations: a meta-analysis and systematic review. Scientific Reports. 2023;13(1):12343. doi:10.1038/s41598-023-39469-9Szymczak-Pajor I, Śliwińska A. Analysis of association between vitamin D deficiency and insulin resistance. Nutrients (PMC). 2019. doi:10.3390/nu11040794Mulligan T, et al. Prevalence of hypogonadism in males aged at least 45 years: the HIM study. Int J Clin Pract. 2006;60(7):762-769. [Referenced in: Testosterone and weight loss: the evidence. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes. 2014;21(5):313-322. PMC4154787]Grossmann M. Lowered testosterone in male obesity: mechanisms, morbidity and management. Asian J Androl. 2014;16(2):223-231. PMC3955331Corona G, et al. Body weight loss reverts obesity-associated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Endocrinol. 2013;168(6):829-843. doi:10.1530/EJE-12-0955

How to Choose a Regenerative Medicine ClinicIf you’re struggling with chronic pain, limited mobility, or declining function—and you want to avoid surgery, long recoveries, and unnecessary risk—you’ve likely heard about regenerative medicine.But with so many clinics, ads, and bold promises flooding the market, how do you know who to trust? In this episode, Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down a clear, practical framework to help you separate science-based regenerative medicine from marketing hype. What You’ll Learn in This Episode The Reality of the MarketWhy approximately 60% of regenerative medicine is snake oilWhy another 30% produces inconsistent or suboptimal resultsHow to identify the top 10% of providers practicing high-level, science-based care The 3-Step Elimination Process Dr. Lewis walks you through a simple framework to think like the CEO of your own body and hire the right medical leader. 1) IntegrityThe difference between the FDA 351 drug approval pathway and the 361 tissue registration pathwayWhy no regenerative medicine product is currently FDA-approved under the 351 pathwayWhat companies must legally attest when registering birth-tissue products under 361Why many “fetal stem cell” and birth-tissue products do not contain viable living stem cellsResearch showing patients in their 60s and 70s still have robust, viable stem cellsWhy the myth that “your stem cells are too old” is scientifically inaccurate Key takeaway:If a clinic is injecting birth-tissue or fetal-derived products and marketing them as live stem cells, integrity should be questioned. 2) Training Not all training paths are equal. Key takeaway:Look for a board-certified physician with formal specialty training in interventional and regenerative medicine. 3) The Lab: “Check the Kitchen” In regenerative medicine, dose matters. Dr. Lewis explains the difference between: A Full Regenerative Medicine LaboratorySterile processing hoodHematology analyzerCell-counting and viability testingTrained laboratory staffAbility to tailor treatment based on measured cell dose Versus: “Lab-in-a-Box” SystemsPush-button processingNo measured cell countsUnknown viabilityOne-size-fits-all product Without measuring cell count and viability, outcomes become unpredictable. Key takeaway:If a clinic cannot measure and verify your cell dose, you’re essentially guessing. Bottom Line To dramatically increase your odds of success: Choose autologous treatments (your own cells)Avoid birth-tissue and fetal-derived productsSeek board-certified physicians with specialty trainingLook for clinics with a full regenerative medicine laboratoryLearn More Visit us at:www.nwc4rm.com

In this episode of The Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis is joined by Performance Medicine Nurse Jeralee Kidd to explore one of the most overlooked—but foundational—hormones in the body: DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone).Often referred to as a “precursor hormone,” DHEA plays a critical role in supporting testosterone and estrogen production in both men and women. Yet as we age, DHEA levels steadily decline—often beginning as early as our 30s—contributing to fatigue, low mood, reduced resilience to stress, loss of lean muscle mass, brain fog, inflammation, and decreased libido.Dr. Lewis and Jeralee break down:What DHEA is and how it functions in the bodyWhy both men and women should have their levels evaluatedThe connection between DHEA, adrenal health, and chronic stressHow low DHEA can impact metabolism, muscle mass, immune function, and longevityWhen replacement may be appropriate—and why proper testing and medical supervision matterThey also explain how DHEA differs from testosterone therapy, why it’s commonly missed in routine labs, and how optimizing foundational hormones can dramatically improve quality of life and long-term health outcomes.If you’re in your 40s, 50s, or beyond—and feeling more tired, inflamed, or less resilient than you used to—this episode may connect some important dots.To learn more or schedule a comprehensive hormone evaluation, visit www.spokanehrt.com.

Progesterone: Why Optimization and Replacement Matters During Your 30s, 40s and BeyondWith Becca Pabona & Jeralee Kidd, Performance Medicine NursesIn this episode of The Rare Wellness Podcast, Performance Medicine Nurses Becca Pabona and Jeralee Kidd explore an often-overlooked but critically important hormone in women’s health: progesterone.While estrogen typically gets the spotlight in midlife conversations—especially around hot flashes and night sweats—this discussion highlights how progesterone is often the first hormone to decline during perimenopause, sometimes years before menopause begins.Becca and Jeralee break down:Why progesterone plays a key role in sleep quality, anxiety regulation, mood stability, and brain healthHow declining progesterone can lead to symptoms like insomnia (especially waking at 2–3 AM), “wired but tired” anxiety, mood swings, heavier periods, migraines, and worsening PMSThe science behind progesterone’s calming effect on the brain through the GABA-A receptor pathwayWhy micronized (bioidentical) progesterone differs significantly from synthetic progestins used in earlier hormone studiesThe importance of symptom-guided optimization, not just lab-based decision-makingWhy progesterone therapy, when used appropriately, can be one of the safest and most impactful interventionsfor perimenopausal womenJeralee also shares her personal experience with progesterone and how addressing this hormone transformed her sleep and anxiety—insights she now sees reflected in many patients at the Center for Regenerative and Performance Medicine.If you’re in your late 30s, 40s, or early 50s and feel like “something is off,” this episode may help you understand why it may not be stress or aging alone—it could be progesterone.For more information, visit www.spokaneht.com.

Bhasin S, et al.Prostate Safety Events During Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Men With Hypogonadism: A Randomized Clinical Trial (TRAVERSE).JAMA Network Open. 2023;6(12):e2342583.Araujo AB, et al.Clinical review: Endogenous testosterone and mortality in men: a systematic review and meta-analysis.Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2011;96(10):3007–3019.Corona G, et al.Testosterone and metabolic syndrome: a meta-analysis study.Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2011;8(1):272–283.Davis SR, et al.Global Consensus Position Statement on the Use of Testosterone Therapy for Women.Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2019;104(10):4660–4666.Finkelstein JS, et al.Gonadal steroids and body composition, strength, and sexual function in men.New England Journal of Medicine. 2013;369:1011–1022.Rosner W, et al.Utility, limitations, and pitfalls in measuring testosterone: an Endocrine Society position statement.Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2007;92(2):405–413.

Evidence Cited In This Episode1. Prostate Safety and the TRAVERSE Trial (Randomized Clinical Trial)Bhasin et al. Prostate Safety Events During Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Men With Hypogonadism: A Randomized Clinical Trial — JAMA Network Open (TRAVERSE).https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/28132932. Prostate Tissue Effects of TRTMarks et al., Effect of Testosterone Replacement Therapy on Prostate Tissue in Aging Men — JAMA 2006 (Demonstrates minimal change in prostate tissue androgen concentrations with TRT).https://www.hormonebalance.org/images/documents/Marks%2006%20Testosterone%20and%20Prostate%20cancer%20JAMA.pdf3. Prostate Risk and Monitoring During TRT (Review)Academic review of TRAVERSE and other randomized trials summarizing prostate safety outcomes and the importance of monitoring during TRT.https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/109/8/1975/76754614. Harvard Health Commentary on TRT & Prostate Cancer RiskHarvard Health Publishing: Appropriate use of testosterone therapy does not appear to raise prostate cancer risk (comments on randomized evidence showing no increased risk over ~3 years).https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/appropriate-use-of-testosterone-therapy-does-not-appear-to-raise-prostate-cancer-risk

How much protein do you actually need for muscle, metabolic health, and longevity—and do branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) really matter?In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down the science behind protein intake, modern research on optimal dosing, and when BCAAs are helpful—or unnecessary. While traditional protein recommendations focus on preventing deficiency, emerging research shows that optimal protein intake is significantly higher, especially for preserving muscle, metabolic health, and resilience as we age.You’ll learn:🍽️Why muscle acts as your body’s amino acid reservoir🍽️The difference between minimum vs optimal protein intake🍽️Evidence-based protein targets for strength and longevity🍽️Why spreading protein across meals matters🍽️The role of leucine and the muscle protein synthesis “on switch”🍽️When BCAAs make sense (and when they don’t)🍽️Special considerations for vegetarians, older adults, fasted training, and GLP-1 medicationsDr. Lewis explains why many experts now recommend 1.6–2.0 g/kg/day of protein for optimal function—and why fears around higher protein intake are largely unsupported in healthy adults. This episode provides practical, science-backed guidance to help you protect muscle, improve metabolic health, and support healthy aging without hype or extremes.🏥 Sponsor: Center for Regenerative and Performance Medicine🌐 Learn more at c4rpm.com👍 If you found this episode helpful, please like, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who wants to age stronger and healthier.

Creatine is often labeled as a “gym supplement,” but it is so much more.In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down what creatine really is, how it works inside the body, and why it’s one of the most researched and effective supplements for muscle strength, brain health, and healthy aging.In this episode, you’ll learn:• How creatine supports muscle strength and helps combat age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia)• Why creatine may improve cognitive performance and mental resilience under stress• The truth about creatine safety, kidney health, and common myths• Evidence-based dosing strategies for performance, longevity, and recovery• How creatine fits into regenerative and performance medicine programsCreatine isn’t a replacement for good sleep, nutrition, and training—but when those foundations are in place, it can be a powerful force multiplier for long-term health and function.🎙️ Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis🏥 Sponsored by Center for Regenerative and Performance Medicine🌐 Learn more at c4rpm.comIf you found value in this episode, please like, subscribe, comment, and share to help us continue delivering evidence-based wellness insights.

🔥 Visceral fat is one of the most dangerous—and most misunderstood—forms of fat.In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, host Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down what visceral fat is, why it’s far more harmful than subcutaneous fat (what most people think of when they hear "fat"), and—most importantly—what you can do to reduce it using evidence-based strategies.You’ll learn why where fat is stored matters more than how much you weigh, and why two people with the same body weight can have completely different health risks.Key Topics Covered:• Why visceral fat drives chronic inflammation• Its link to insulin resistance and fatty liver disease• How visceral fat disrupts testosterone, estrogen, and cortisol• Why BMI alone is a poor marker of metabolic health• How to assess visceral fat (DEXA, waist circumference, labs)• Proven strategies to reduce visceral fat through sleep, exercise, nutrition, stress management, and targeted therapiesThe good news? Visceral fat is highly responsive to lifestyle change—and often the first fat your body burns when metabolic health improves.🎙️ Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis🌲 Sponsored by Center for Regenerative and Performance Medicine👉 Learn more at c4rpm.com👍 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe for more bite-sized insights on longevity, hormones, and regenerative medicine.

In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, host Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down the science behind exosomes, cutting through the hype to explain what they actually do — and what they don’t do — in regenerative medicine.Exosomes have rapidly gained attention in the wellness and orthopedic space, often advertised as injectable solutions for pain, injury, and anti-aging. But the real story is far more nuanced 🔬. Dr. Lewis explains that exosomes are biological messengers, not living cells — and that true healing requires activating your body’s own regenerative systems 🧬.🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode:✅ What exosomes are and how they function as cellular “text messages”✅ Why platelets act as your body’s first responders 🚒✅ The critical role of stem cells as the “general contractors” of healing 🏗️✅ Why exogenous (donor-derived) exosomes don’t align with how biology actually works✅ The FDA’s position on off-the-shelf exosome products ⚠️✅ Why autologous regenerative therapies are biologically sound approachesDr. Lewis uses clear analogies and real-world examples to explain why real regeneration comes from living cells responding to your specific injury, not disconnected signals from a petri dish. This episode empowers you to make informed decisions and avoid misleading regenerative medicine claims.🌲 This episode is sponsored by the Center for Regenerative & Performance Medicine.Learn more at 👉 www. c4rpm.com👍 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe to the Rare Wellness Podcast for more bite-sized insights on longevity, hormone health, and regenerative medicine.

⚡️GLP-1 medications like semaglutide are best known for helping with weight loss and blood sugar—but could they also reduce inflammation and chronic pain?In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down the science behind how GLP-1 receptor agonists may impact systemic inflammation, joint pain, and long-term disease risk. Whether you're managing autoimmune issues, metabolic dysfunction, or just looking to improve recovery, this episode connects the dots between GLP-1, inflammation, and regenerative health.In this episode, you’ll learn:⚡️What GLP-1 drugs actually do in the body⚡️The connection between metabolic health, inflammation & chronic pain⚡️Why GLP-1s may help with arthritis, joint pain, and tissue healing⚡️The pros, cons, and science-backed uses of GLP-1s beyond weight loss🎧 Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis🔬 Sponsored by the Center for Regenerative Medicine🌐 Learn more: c4rpm.com and rarewellness.com🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!Key Citations: • Healio Rheumatology, 2025: GLP-1 Agents Can Help Lower Systemic Inflammation (link) • Frontiers in Immunology, 2023: The Role of GLP-1 in Immune Modulation. • Diabetes Therapy, 2023: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Inflammatory Marker Reduction Independent of Weight Loss.

Creatine is not just for bodybuilders. In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis sits down with Dr. Howard Grattan to break down the real science behind creatine and essential amino acids for muscle health, performance, and aging.Whether you're a serious athlete or just want to stay strong and healthy as you age, this episode is packed with takeaways you can apply right now.💪 What creatine actually does inside your body🍽️ Why essential amino acids (EAAs) are a game-changer for muscle growth🧬 How these supplements support longevity, recovery, and cellular function⚠️ Common myths about creatine and amino acids—debunked by the science✅ Dosage tips and timing strategies to maximize effectiveness🔬 Sponsored by the Center for Regenerative Medicine🌐 Learn more: c4rpm.com and rarewellness.comReferences for Show Notes: 1. Forbes SC, Little JP, Candow DG. Exercise and nutritional interventions for improving aging muscle health. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle. 2021;12(1):1-21. doi:10.1002/jcsm.12659. [PMID: 33856389] 2. Devries MC, Phillips SM. Creatine supplementation during rehabilitation of disuse-induced muscle atrophy. J Physiol. 2020;598(12):2307-2319. [PMID: 32096063] 3. Turner CE, Byblow WD, Gant N. Creatine supplementation enhances cognitive performance and brain bioenergetics. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2020;17(1):1-10. [PMID: 32486065] 4. Dalle S, Rossmeislová L, Koppo K. The Role of Inflammation in Age-Related Sarcopenia. Front Physiol. 2019;10:302. doi:10.3389/fphys.2019.00302. [PMID: 30845725] 5. Jäger R, et al. International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: Protein and exercise. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2017;14:20. [PMID: 28919842]

Wondering what to eat for a longer, healthier life? In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis walks you through how to build a Longevity Plate—a sustainable, science-backed approach to eating for healthspan, not just weight loss.You’ll learn:✅ The role of nutrition in aging and inflammation✅ How food impacts longevity, disease risk, and recovery✅ Which foods to prioritize—and which ones to limit✅ The biggest nutrition myths that hurt long-term healthWhether you're optimizing your routine or just starting your health journey, this episode gives you actionable steps for eating with purpose and long-term impact.🔗 Listen now and follow for more expert content on regenerative medicine, longevity, and functional wellness.CITATIONS 1. Bauer J, et al. Nutrients. 2018;10(3):377. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5872778/ 2. Reynolds A, et al. The Lancet. 2019;393(10170):434–445. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(18)31809-9 3. Srour B, et al. BMJ. 2019;365:l1149. https://www.bmj.com/content/365/bmj.l1149

Can your metabolism make or break your regenerative treatment? In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down the crucial link between metabolic health and regenerative outcomes.🧠 Discover why your body's ability to regulate blood sugar, inflammation, and cellular repair could determine whether treatments like PRP or stem cell therapy actually work.We cover:✅ How insulin resistance and inflammation sabotage recovery✅ Why muscle mass, sleep, and stress management matter more than you think✅ Practical strategies to improve your metabolic health before undergoing treatment✅ The future of regenerative medicine + performance optimizationIf you're investing in regenerative therapies, this episode is essential listening. Your internal environment could be the key to healing—or your biggest obstacle.🎧 Listen now and learn how to prep your body for optimal results.📚 References:[^1]: Wang M et al. Cell Metab. 2016;24(4):585-598.[^2]: Zhao Q et al. Stem Cells Int. 2020.[^3]: Di Martino A et al. Int Orthop. 2021;45(3):805–811.[^4]: Ko JH et al. Stem Cells Int. 2016.

What should you eat—and what should you avoid—if your goal is building strength and muscle that lasts? In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis and Dr. Andrew Mock dive deep into the foundations of nutrition and supplementation for muscle growth, performance, and recovery.Whether you're an athlete or simply looking to age stronger, this episode delivers practical, science-backed insights to help you fuel your body for results.🔍 Key topics we cover:⚡️Macronutrients: How much protein, carbs, and fat do you really need?⚡️Timing your meals and workouts for max muscle gain⚡️Common myths about bulking and cutting⚡️Supplements that actually work (and which ones to skip)⚡️How to support recovery, reduce inflammation, and boost performance naturally⚡️Nutrition strategies for aging adults who want to maintain strengthIf you want to train smarter, eat better, and recover faster, this is your blueprint.🎙 Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis👨‍⚕️ Guest: Dr. Andrew Mock – strength athlete and physician🔬 Sponsored by the Northwest Center for Regenerative Medicine🌐 Learn more: nwc4rm.com and rarewellness.com👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more weekly insights on regenerative medicine, hormone balance, and natural performance optimization.