Intelligent Medicine

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.

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.

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.