Intelligent Medicine

BONUS ORIGINAL CONTENT: The introduction and limitations of the drug Addyi, known as the 'female Viagra,' including its side effects and mixed effectiveness; A listener's concerns about liver fibrosis, providing dietary and supplement recommendations for liver health; The impact of plastic exposure on cardiovascular health, emphasizing the widespread and harmful effects of phthalates found in plastics.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin reveals the alarming increase in obesity-associated cancers in the United States over the past two decades. Highlighting findings from a recent study presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting, Leyla underscores the significant rise in cancer deaths linked to obesity, particularly among women, older adults, Native Americans, and Black Americans. She also explores the complex causes of obesity, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors, and offers insights into effective weight management strategies. Additionally, Leyla examines the high rates of heart disease in various U.S. states, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle modifications and public health initiatives to combat cardiovascular diseases.

Reducing food waste Please share your thoughts concerning controversies about the significance of telomere length

Why is my B6 so high when I only take a small amount of it?Can nocturia be associated with dehydration?Please weigh in on allulose. Is it too good to be true?My husband's hemoglobin is lower than his previous lab test. Is this a cause for concern? 

Dr. Jeffrey Bland, a pioneer in the field of integrative and functional medicine, discusses his latest project, Big Bold Health, which focuses on immune system rejuvenation through natural products like HTB (Himalayan Tery Buckwheat) and high-quality fish oil. The conversation delves into the origins and benefits of functional medicine, the importance of diet and lifestyle in health, and the concept of making America healthy. Dr. Bland also shares insights into his journey and the influence of traditional medicine practices. Listeners are encouraged to explore more about functional medicine and Big Bold Health's unique offerings.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Jeffrey Bland, a pioneer in the field of integrative and functional medicine.

Zen Honeycutt, founder and executive director of Moms Across America and author of “Unstoppable: Transforming Sickness and Struggle into Triumph, Empowerment and a Celebration of Community,” details the origins and mission of the nonprofit organization aimed at transforming the food supply and improving health by reducing chemicals in food, water, and air. Highlighting the impact of grassroots activism, Honeycutt illustrates how the organization's initiatives have driven significant awareness and policy changes, including advances in organic food consumption and labeling. She also touches on the challenges posed by government and corporate influences, advocating for policies that put children's health and safety first. Honeycutt emphasizes the importance of individual actions and community involvement in creating a healthier future.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Zen Honeycutt, founder and executive director of Moms Across America and author of “Unstoppable: Transforming Sickness and Struggle into Triumph, Empowerment and a Celebration of Community.” 

Sweet poison? New doubts cast over safety of erythritol; Is Greek yogurt a good way to enhance protein intake? Comparing whey, soy, and pea protein isolates; When taking supplements, is it advisable to take periodic breaks to enhance their effectiveness? Tommy John surgery pioneer and longtime Mets medical director dies at 68; Ivermectin, once branded useless “horse paste,” may prove a new weapon against malaria; New findings challenge notion that humans and apes share 99% of their DNA.

In first-ever study, keto diet scores vs. Parkinson's; Walk away from dementia; Loneliness can kill, but negative social ties can hasten biological aging; Researchers isolate potent memory compound from sage, rosemary; Sketchy knockoff weight loss drugs are flooding the marketplace; The popular vitamin you shouldn't take for sarcoidosis; When osteoporosis is so severe that even minor trauma causes rib fractures.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the recently released 2025 report on the best overall diets. She critiques the methodology behind nutritional research, emphasizing issues such as recall bias and the reliability of food frequency questionnaires. Leyla then provides an in-depth review of the top ten diets listed in the report: Mediterranean, DASH, Flexitarian, MIND, Mayo Clinic, TLC, Menopause, Dr. Andrew Weil's Anti-inflammatory, Volumetrics, and Cleveland Clinic diets. She argues that many of these diets are misrepresented, particularly regarding their fat content and sustainability claims. Leyla also offers her insights on what constitutes a truly effective and sustainable diet.

Water filters are surrounded by plastic. Won't we be exposed to microplastics by filtering our water?I'm 80 with borderline osteoporosis. Is working out with light weights okay for me?I have latent autoimmune diabetes. Is taking metformin appropriate until I have a need to start insulin?I'm taking warfarin. Can I safely take a hair growth supplement for women?

Which brand of fish oil do you recommend lately?What supplements can help with ankle pain, specifically perineal tendonitis?Aren't doctors opening themselves up to a lawsuit by not using superior methods of cancer detection?Would magnesium help for atrial fibrillation caused by a heart valve replacement? What do you recommend for severe rheumatoid arthritis?How far apart should I eat any dairy from blueberries so as not to inhibit nutrient absorption?

Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, integrative medicine physician, researcher, and best-selling author, details preventive measures and treatments for cognitive decline, including dementia and Alzheimer's disease. He covers a wide range of topics, including the impact of conventional medications, natural supplement alternatives, dietary interventions, the role of exercise, and the importance of addressing underlying health issues like thyroid problems and metabolic syndrome. Dr. Teitelbaum emphasizes practical and low-cost approaches, and he offers listeners detailed resources and guidance.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with pioneering integrative medicine practitioner Dr. Jacob Teibelbaum.

Unpacking the Power of Creatine: A Deep Dive with Mark Faulkner, founder of CON-CRĒT Creatine HCI. He discusses the multifaceted benefits of creatine supplementation. With a comprehensive background in sports medicine and forensic toxicology, Faulkner offers an expert perspective on creatine's efficacy beyond muscle building, extending to cognitive function, neuroprotection, and general cellular energy. The conversation delves into creatine's history, types, bioavailability, and its safety for both athletes and the general public, including unique insights into Faulkner's own product, creatine hydrochloride. The discussion also touches on potential creatine use in older adults, athletes' drug testing, and the evolving landscape of athletic performance enhancement.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Mark Faulkner, founder of CON-CRĒT Creatine HCI.

Natural alternatives for Trump's chronic leg swelling problems; How certain blood and urine tests can help predict osteoporosis; Dark chocolate enhances cognitive function—with lasting effects; caffeinated black coffee reduces risk of death by 14%; NY Times misses the boat again on supplements for immunity; Man dies after being pulled into MRI machine.

The dark personality traits that underlie online political engagement; Parents' use of topical hormone preparations may pose unusual risks to their babies; Alternative to beta blockers for high blood pressure; Does lecithin lower cholesterol? Caloric restriction may extend life—but at what cost? A high-fiber diet may mimic caloric restriction's longevity benefits; Can mammograms cause cancer? 

Understanding the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15: A Guide to Healthier Produce Choices: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the Environmental Working Group's (EWG) 2025 Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce. Highlighting the importance of making informed produce choices, Leyal explains the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15, which list the most and least contaminated fruits and vegetables, respectively. Key findings include the presence of harmful pesticides in 75% of non-organic produce and the health risks associated with pesticide exposure. Leyla offers practical tips on reducing pesticide intake, such as opting for organic produce, washing fruits and vegetables, and utilizing frozen options when fresh organic produce is unavailable.

Wondering what you think of the supplement Fatty 15?Can you recommend any nonstick pans that are safe to use?Study finds gut microbes can absorb and help expel forever chemicals like PFAS

I'm having a hard time swallowing pills.  Can I crush or chew them or does this adversely impact their efficacy?Should we all be taking creatine supplements?Are certain inflammatory markers associated with chronic fatigue?  What about COVID?Can you recommend any non-toxic paints and dehumidifiers to use in my basement?  

Dr. Chris Rhodes, a clinical fasting, longevity, and biomimetics researcher at UC Davis, discusses various fasting methods including time-restricted feeding, intermittent fasting, and prolonged fasting. He highlights the biochemical processes involved, such as autophagy and metabolic adaptation, and underscores the potential health benefits of fasting, which include improved metabolic markers and extended lifespan as evidenced in animal models. Dr. Rhodes also introduces Mimio, a supplement developed from his research designed to mimic the benefits of fasting without actual food deprivation, detailing its composition and the promising clinical results. The discussion weaves through scientific insights, personal experiences, and practical applications of fasting and fasting-mimicking agents.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Chris Rhodes, a clinical fasting, longevity, and biomimetics researcher at UC Davis.

Judy Karofsky, author of “DISELDERLY CONDUCT: THE FLAWED BUSINESS OF ASSISTED LIVING AND HOSPICE,“ details the myriad issues related to the care of elderly individuals in assisted living and hospice settings. Judy shares personal experiences, including difficulties encountered in securing proper care for her mother, and highlights systemic problems like substandard care, lack of federal regulations, and the challenges posed by private equity's involvement in the senior care industry. She also outlines possible reforms and solutions, emphasizing the urgent need for federal oversight and better standards to ensure the well-being of seniors. The dialogue offers valuable insights for anyone looking to understand the complexities and necessary improvements in the care of older adults.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Judy Karofsky, author of “DISELDERLY CONDUCT: THE FLAWED BUSINESS OF ASSISTED LIVING AND HOSPICE.“

AI-boost for mammograms—a bridge too far? Plastics and heart disease; What does a high CRP mean? Social media marketing of female aphrodisiac dinged with FDA warning; Roundup gets a makeover; Artificial sweeteners may hasten puberty in kids; Plus an encore of our interview with Dr. Jeffrey Bland introducing Himalayan Tartary Buckwheat as a hedge against age-related immune decline.

Advice for liver fibrosis; A caller with a 30 year history of fatigue may need adrenal support; Air filters reduce classroom absenteeism; Inhaled insulin may free diabetics from injections; High blood sugar, not just waning testosterone, the culprit in male sexual decline; Hot baths beat saunas for cardiovascular benefits; Monday stress is real—even for retirees.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the benefits of drinking water over diet beverages for women with type 2 diabetes, highlighting a study that found water consumption led to greater weight loss and a higher rate of diabetes remission. Additionally, the episode explores how a low FODMAP diet can alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms for women suffering from endometriosis. Leyla explains the science behind FODMAPs and provides practical dietary advice for those affected by these conditions.

Do you need to filter your water?More on the REMs test for osteoporosis

My husband has high cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar...help!Is taking Xifaxin and metronidazole an effective treatment for SIBO?I have thyroid antibodies, had COVID twice, and now suffer from fatigueI am 83 years old and my symptoms started after taking the second dose of the Pfizer vaccine in 2021.I've been taking ashwagandha for years for mild anxiety.  Is it okay to continue?

Exploring Innovative Approaches to Pain Management with Dr. Fawad Mian, a neurologist and regenerative medicine specialist. He delves into the various forms of pain and the limitations of traditional treatments such as drugs and surgery. Dr. Mian shares his personal journey with chronic pain and his transition into regenerative medicine. The discussion covers alternative treatments like prolotherapy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and stem cell therapies, emphasizing their potential benefits and the importance of image guidance in their administration. They also touch upon lifestyle modifications and nutritional supplements for managing conditions like diabetic neuropathy and CIDP. Dr. Mian highlights the importance of a multifocal approach to pain management and offers insights from his book, “Getting to Pain Free: How to Make Your Body Stop Hurting So That You Can Start Living Again Without Drugs Or Surgery.”

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Fawad Mian, a neurologist and regenerative medicine specialist, and author of “Getting to Pain Free: How to Make Your Body Stop Hurting So That You Can Start Living Again Without Drugs Or Surgery.”

Exploring Regenerative Agriculture and Advanced Nutraceuticals with Nébil Bourguiba, the Vegetal Sourcing Manager for Groupe Berkem, a French company focusing on innovative, plant-based solutions for the nutraceutical, cosmetic, and construction industries. The conversation delves into the issues surrounding industrial chemicals, the importance of regenerative agriculture, and ethical sourcing. Bourguiba discusses the scientific approach his company takes to develop high-quality, organic nutraceutical ingredients and cosmetic products. They also explore the potential of plant-based materials in creating sustainable construction products and the challenges posed by current European regulations. Tune in to learn more about how regenerative practices can lead to healthier, more sustainable products across various industries.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Nébil Bourguiba, the Vegetal Sourcing Manager for Groupe Berkem, a French company focusing on innovative, plant-based solutions for the nutraceutical, cosmetic, and construction industries.

The profitable conveyor belt of osteoporosis—from bone density screening to powerful medications; Study reveals heart hazards of new bone-building drugs; Carbo-loading before endurance events—are we overdoing it? Barbie gets a CGM; Swallowable sensor in a pill reveals secrets of gut health; Dr. Jeffrey Bland introduces Himalayan Tartary Buckwheat as a hedge against age-related immune decline. 

New study shows mood, attention, brain function improvements after 2-week smartphone “fast”; Natural ways to combat the pain of neuropathy; Solutions for painful swollen lower extremities; Omega-3 reduces depression in bipolar disease; Berberine for blood sugar control; Study demonstrates comprehensive lifestyle program reverses cognitive decline; NSAIDs for knee pain—more is not better; Nighttime pistachio snack curbs pre-diabetes.

Staying Cool and Eating Right: Summer Meal Tips and Hydration Advice. Nutritionist Leyla Muedin has strategies for eating well during a heat wave without needing to cook extensively. She highlights no-cook meal ideas, including salads, tinned fish preparations, and charcuterie boards, along with refreshing dishes like ceviche and gazpacho. Layla also addresses the debated topic of drinking fluids with meals, providing advice on how it may impact digestion and overall health based on individual needs. She stresses the importance of avoiding overly cold drinks to prevent digestive discomfort and advocates for sufficient daily water intake.

More and more patients are looking for root causes to their ailmentsI'm 51 years old and my PSA is starting to climb. Is there anything I can do to slow the progression?Do I really need a red light therapy device or does early morning sunlight provide the same benefit?What do you think of the R.E.M.S scan for bone density?

A story about Familial HypercholesterolemiaThe importance of coronary artery calcium scoring in determining the need for a statinA weedkiller worse than glyphosate being used in the USCan I eat one meal a day indefinitely?

The Seed Oil Controversy: Unpacking Health Risks and Alternatives with Jonathan Rubin, CEO of the Seed Oil Free Alliance. The discussion focuses on the potential health hazards posed by seed oils, which have become ubiquitous in the American diet. They explore how these oils may be linked to chronic disease and obesity and compare this with the mainstream view that considers them harmless. Jonathan shares insights from his personal health journey and explains the mission and methodology of the Seed Oil Free Alliance, which aims to provide consumers with reliable information and certification for seed oil-free products. The episode also covers the historical context of seed oil consumption, the science behind omega-6 fatty acids, and practical alternatives for a healthier diet.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Jonathan Rubin, CEO of the Seed Oil Free Alliance.

Exploring the Health Benefits of Red and Infrared Light Therapy with Dr. Carl Rothchild, the founder, researcher, and owner of Trifecta Light™ Technologies, Inc., a leading innovator in LED Infrared/Red Light therapeutic technology. He details the numerous health benefits of red and infrared light therapy. He discusses the therapeutic potential of LED technology, particularly in the form of full-body light beds. Topics covered include the impact on mitochondria, tissue regeneration, fat loss, improving athletic performance, and alleviating conditions such as fibromyalgia and neuropathy. The episode emphasizes the scientific foundations and practical applications of this emerging technology.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Carl Rothchild, the founder, researcher, and owner of Trifecta Light™ Technologies, Inc., a leading innovator in LED Infrared/Red Light therapeutic technology. 

A slew of ultra-powerful weight loss drugs are in the pipeline—ironic that Westerners need them so much? RFK Jr. wants every American to wear a fitness tracker; New study upends belief that inflammation is inevitable with aging; Rating products for hair growth and restoration; Why electric vehicles may make us carsick.

Treating episodes of surging blood pressure, hot flashes and nausea with Xanax may miss a root cause; Can liver fibrosis be reversed? Researchers discover 96 environmental chemicals lurking in toddlers' bodies; 12% of doctors 70 and older found to have cognitive deficits—time to take the keys away?  Early to bed, early to rise . . . permits more exercise; Tailored probiotic sponges up toxic PFAS chemicals in GI tract; Let's retire the misleading BMI as a guide to optimal body composition.