The Health Edge: translating the science of self-care

Send us a textNature deficit syndrome is silently affecting millions as we spend over 95% of our lives indoors beneath artificial lighting that disrupts our biology at the most fundamental level. Dr. Mark Pettus delivers a compelling exploration of this modern disconnection, introducing the powerful concept that our current "junk light" epidemic may soon be viewed with the same concern we now direct toward processed foods.Drawing from both scientific research and ancient wisdom traditions, Dr. Pettus reveals how the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) offers a profound antidote to our indoor, technology-dominated existence. The evidence is remarkable – even brief nature immersion triggers measurable shifts from sympathetic nervous system dominance (fight-or-flight) to parasympathetic activation (rest and digest), resulting in lower blood pressure, improved heart rate variability, reduced inflammation, and enhanced immune function through natural killer cell activation.At the heart of this discussion lies a philosophical revelation about human existence itself. The "illusion of separateness" that characterizes modern living contradicts our true biological nature as integral parts of a larger ecosystem. When we reconnect with natural environments – feeling the sunlight, breathing forest air rich with beneficial compounds, and simply being present – we synchronize with rhythms and frequencies our bodies inherently recognize. This reconnection doesn't require abandoning modern life but rather intentionally incorporating nature exposure alongside other ancestral practices to create states of clarity, focus, and happiness that aren't random gifts of fortune but natural conditions we can cultivate. Visit Essential Provisions to discover more resources for integrating nature's healing power into your wellness journey.For slide deck: www.thehealthedgepodcast.comFor sumptuous meals ready to eat (MREs): www.essentialprovisions.com

Send us a textAt a time when anxiety and depression rates are soaring across all age groups, Dr. Mark Pettus cuts through the noise with revelatory insights into how our daily choices shape our mental landscape. This compelling exploration connects the dots between what's on your plate, how you move through your day, and the remarkable resilience of your brain.Dr. Pettus introduces the concept of allostatic load—how our bodies interpret and respond to environmental stressors—and reveals why our modern lifestyle creates the perfect storm for mental health challenges. Rather than viewing mood disorders as purely psychological phenomena, he presents compelling evidence that insulin resistance, inflammation, and disrupted circadian rhythms form the physiological foundation of many mental health struggles.The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Dr. Pettus explains how rapid blood sugar fluctuations can trigger symptoms indistinguishable from anxiety attacks. That afternoon panic might actually be the aftermath of your lunch choices! Through practical nutritional principles focused on whole foods, lower glycemic options, and nutrient density, he offers actionable strategies to support neuroplasticity—your brain's remarkable ability to generate new cells and neural pathways throughout life.Beyond diet, we discover how Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)—essentially "miracle grow for the brain"—can be boosted through movement (especially dancing!), natural light exposure, time in nature, and specific foods. The gut-brain connection emerges as another critical pathway, with our microbiome directly influencing neurotransmitter production and mood regulation. Most empowering is the concept of metabolic flexibility—how developing your body's ability to efficiently switch between fuel sources enhances both cognitive function and emotional stability.Weaving together ancestral wisdom with cutting-edge neuroscience, Dr. Pettus presents a holistic framework that honors our evolutionary design while navigating modern challenges. This isn't about quick fixes or magic pills—it's about building sustainable resilience through aligned lifestyle choices that activate our innate capacity for wellbeing.Ready to rewire your approach to mental health? Listen now and discover how small, strategic shifts in your daily habits can transform your mind, mood, and quality of life. Your brain was designed to thrive—learn how to give it what it truly needs.For PowerPoint slide deck: www.thehealthedgepodcast.comFor Essential Provisions Meals Ready to Eat (MREs): www.essentialprovisions.com

Send us a textThe rhythms of nature have orchestrated human biology for millennia, but our modern lifestyle has disconnected us from these essential patterns. Dr. Mark Pettus takes us on a fascinating journey through the science of circadian rhythms, revealing how light serves as crucial information that synchronizes every cell in our bodies with the natural day-night cycle.From ancient Hippocrates to Nobel Prize-winning research, the evidence is clear: our bodies respond profoundly to light quality and timing. Yet today, we spend over 90% of our time indoors under artificial lighting that bears little resemblance to natural sunlight. This mismatch disrupts our internal clocks and increases risk for depression, anxiety, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer—all conditions that ancestral cultures living in alignment with natural light cycles rarely experienced.Dr. Pettus explores how different wavelengths of light trigger specific biological responses. Morning blue light naturally stimulates alertness and cortisol production—precisely what we need to start our day. Evening sunset, with its red-orange spectrum, signals our bodies to reduce cortisol and increase melatonin for restoration and repair. When we expose ourselves to bright blue-rich light after sunset through screens and indoor lighting, we essentially trick our bodies into thinking it's morning, suppressing critical healing processes.The good news? Simple changes can dramatically improve circadian alignment. Just 5-10 minutes of morning sunlight exposure helps anchor your biological clock. Using appropriate lighting throughout the day—brighter, cooler lights in morning hours and warmer, dimmer lights after sunset—can mimic natural patterns. These small adjustments yield profound benefits for sleep quality, mood, cognitive performance, and long-term health. Ready to reconnect with the rhythm of life your body was designed to follow?Slides and audio can be found at www.thehealthedgepodcast.comEssential Provision meals Ready to Eat (MREs) can be found at www.essentialprovisions.com

Send us a textCurious about natural alternatives to expensive GLP-1 medications like Ozempic? Dr. Mark Pettus unveils powerful nutritional strategies to boost your body's own GLP-1 production for improved metabolic health and sustainable weight management.This eye-opening presentation dives into the fascinating relationship between your diet, gut microbiome, and GLP-1 production. Dr. Pettus, a kidney and integrative medicine specialist with 40 years of medical experience, explains how quality protein, healthy fats, fiber-rich foods, and even bitter-tasting ingredients can stimulate your natural GLP-1 pathways without prescription medications.You'll discover why the timing of your meals and exposure to natural light dramatically impacts hormone production, and how simple lifestyle adjustments can synchronize your circadian rhythms for optimal metabolic health. Dr. Pettus challenges conventional nutritional wisdom with evidence-based perspectives on protein requirements, healthy fats, and the critical importance of preserving muscle mass during weight loss.Whether you're currently taking GLP-1 medications and seeking complementary strategies, looking for natural alternatives, or simply interested in optimizing your metabolic health, this webinar provides practical, accessible approaches based on cutting-edge nutritional science. Learn how to work with your body's natural hormonal systems rather than bypassing them, potentially reducing your dependence on expensive pharmaceutical interventions while improving your overall health.Take control of your metabolic health through these natural nutritional strategies to enhance your body's own GLP-1 production. Visit Dr. Pettus' website www.thehealthedgepodcast.com for the video and slide deck. For amazing GLP-1 inducing meals ready to eat (MREs) from Essential provisions, go to: https://essentialprovisions.com/collections/meals-ready-to-eat-mre

Send us a textChronic inflammation has emerged as one of the most significant drivers behind virtually all modern health challenges. In this thought-provoking exploration, Dr. Mark Pettus reveals why researchers now refer to inflammation as "the cause of everything" and introduces the concept of "inflammaging" – how chronic inflammation accelerates biological aging and compromises quality of life.Dr. Pettus takes us beyond conventional medical thinking to understand that while inflammation is an essential protective mechanism, it becomes destructive when chronically activated. Our modern environment, filled with processed foods, chronic stress, environmental toxins, and disrupted sleep patterns, keeps this system perpetually triggered, setting the stage for everything from diabetes to autoimmune conditions.The most eye-opening revelations come when Dr. Pettis challenges popular nutritional dogma. He explains why fat has been unfairly vilified while highlighting how the standard American diet—dominated by processed carbohydrates and industrial seed oils—creates the perfect inflammatory storm. You'll discover why quality animal proteins and fats may be critical anti-inflammatory allies while learning how to identify truly nutritious foods that align with your biology.Beyond nutrition, you'll gain practical insights into creating a comprehensive anti-inflammatory lifestyle through improved sleep, stress management, movement, and perhaps most surprisingly, through cultivating self-love and meaningful connections. Dr. Pettus shares specific testing recommendations to objectively measure your inflammation levels and track your progress.Whether you're dealing with chronic health challenges, carrying extra weight, struggling with energy levels, or simply want to optimize your health span, this presentation offers a refreshing perspective that empowers you to address root causes rather than merely managing symptoms. Take the first step toward creating an anti-inflammatory lifestyle by implementing these evidence-based strategies today.For video recording and slide deck go to www.thehealthedgepodcast.comFor Essential Provisions Nutritional Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) go to www.essentialprovisions.com

Send us a textPrepare to have your understanding of genetics completely transformed. The revolutionary science of epigenetics reveals that you're not simply a prisoner of your DNA – you're actively participating in how your genes express themselves through every choice you make.Dr. Mark Pettus takes us on a fascinating journey through this emerging field that bridges the gap between fate and free will. Drawing on cutting-edge research and decades of clinical experience, he explains how our modern environment creates a profound mismatch with our ancient genetic template, setting the stage for chronic disease. The 21st century human faces challenges our ancestors never encountered – from ultra-processed foods to artificial lighting to environmental toxins – all triggering genetic expressions incompatible with optimal health.The most empowering revelation? These expressions can change in real-time based on lifestyle choices. Within hours of consuming whole foods rather than processed ones, gene switches flip from promoting inflammation to reducing it. Regular movement, quality sleep, meaningful relationships, and even our thought patterns all influence our "book of life" at the molecular level. Dr. Pettis shares compelling research showing how maternal stress during pregnancy alters offspring epigenetics for decades, how indigenous populations saw 500% increases in diabetes within a generation after adopting Western lifestyles, and how we can potentially reverse our biological clocks through targeted lifestyle changes.Discover why Blue Zone populations maintain extraordinary health into their 100s and how you can implement their wisdom into your modern life. This isn't just about preventing disease – it's about actively creating health by bringing your lifestyle into alignment with your evolutionary biology. The science is clear: you have far more control over your genetic expression than previously imagined. What will you write in your book of life?Powerpoint slides and video can be found at www.thehealthedgepodcast,comEssential Provisions whole foods meals ready to eat (MREs) at www.essentialprovisions.com

Send us a textCreatine might be the most underappreciated nutritional powerhouse in our health toolkit. While many associate it exclusively with weightlifters and athletes, the science reveals a molecule with profound benefits reaching far beyond the gym.Mark Pettus MD and John Bagnulo PhD,MPH dive into creatine's fundamental role in human physiology as part of our body's most immediate energy production system – the ATP-PCR pathway. They unpack how this simple compound supports not just muscle strength and lean body mass, but potentially shields against age-related decline in both physical and cognitive function.The conversation dismantles persistent myths around creatine safety, clarifying why concerns about kidney damage and steroid-like effects are scientifically unfounded. Both hosts share their personal experiences and professional insights about optimal dosing (3-5 grams daily), sourcing (creatine monohydrate remains the gold standard), and why dietary sources alone (mostly red meat and small fish) often fall short of providing optimal levels – especially as we age and our natural creatine synthesis declines.Perhaps most fascinating is the emerging research around creatine's role in brain health. Lower brain creatine levels correlate with neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and ALS, suggesting that maintaining adequate creatine stores might help protect against cognitive decline through multiple mechanisms – from basic energy provision to antioxidant effects and enhanced dopamine recovery.Whether you're an athlete seeking performance gains, someone focused on healthy aging, or simply exploring evidence-based supplements with remarkable safety profiles, this episode offers valuable insights into why creatine deserves consideration as part of your daily health regimen. Listen now to understand how this simple molecule might be working silently to protect your most metabolically active tissues – muscle and brain – throughout your lifetime.Research studies referenced can be found at https://www,thehealthedgepodcast.com

Unlock the secrets to a healthier, longer life by mastering the science behind protein intake. Discover the critical role of animal protein in maintaining lean body mass, boosting metabolic health, and combating age-related muscle loss. We challenge traditional views and outdated guidelines, bringing you insights from recent research and experts in the field to help you reassess the power of protein in your diet.With less than 10% of Americans achieving optimal metabolic health, it's time to rethink how much protein we really need. We explore groundbreaking studies by Dr. Luke von Loon and others that highlight the benefits of higher protein consumption for muscle synthesis, lasting well beyond 24 hours. By understanding how our ancestors thrived on protein-rich diets, you'll gain a new appreciation for why your body efficiently uses protein and how it can transform your health and physique.Dive deeper into the specifics of protein optimization, as we discuss the ideal range of 1.2-1.6 g/kg/day for maintenance and up to 1.6 to 2+ grams per kilogram per day for anabolic muscle growth and strength. Learn about the superior amino acid profiles in animal proteins and the essential role of branched-chain amino acids and potassium. We also cover the benefits of creatine and how word-of-mouth communication can be a powerful tool for sharing these life-changing insights. Embrace a diet rich in animal protein and healthy fats, while cutting out sugars and processed carbs, to achieve a more vibrant, healthier you.

In this first Health Edge podcast of 2025, Mark Pettus MD and John Bagnulo PhD, MPH review a 2024 study published in The Journal of Nutrition.https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S002231662400289X?via%3Dihubhttps://www.thehealthedgepodcast.com

In this Health Edge recording, Mark describes a model of integrative health-lifestyle medicine that is distinctly different from current allopathic disease-based models. He examines the metabolic perfect storm of insulin resistance and inflammation as passports to accelerated aging, chronic complex disease risk and poor quality of life or healthspan. His slides can be downloaded at www.thehealthedgepodcast.com

In this episode of the Health Edge I review a recent meta-analysis examining the magnitude of cardiovascular benefit from taking statins for elevated LDL in both primary and secondary prevention.JAMA Intern Med. 2022;182(5):474-481. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2022.0134 Published online March 14, 2022. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35285...

Do you ever feel like everything you've been told about healthy eating seems to be teetering on the edge of being overturned?  Welcome to a mind-bending exploration where we question the status quo, particularly the demonization of full fat dairy and saturated fats. I'm diving deep into a groundbreaking study suggesting that pentadecanoic acid, a saturated fat found in full-fat dairy could actually promote health and contribute to our longevity. We challenge the shortcomings in the traditional medical model and its ability to promote health, and ponder the rapid expansion of knowledge in the information age. Our journey continues as we venture into another exciting discussion on the potential essential role that pentadecanoic acid plays in our bodies. A compelling study indicates that a deficiency of this saturated fat could contribute to chronic diseases. We're not trying to persuade you to change your dietary habits overnight, but rather, we invite you to question, learn, and make informed decisions about your health. As we wrap up, we highlight the importance of natural, whole foods in our diet and delve into how our modern lifestyle could be impacting our health. So, are you ready to embark on this journey into the world of saturated fats, dairy, and optimal health?

In a world where health advice is abundant, it can be challenging to sift through conflicting data and headlines. One such contentious issue is the connection between red meat and type 2 diabetes. On this episode of The Health Edge, we take a critical look at this connection and aim to provide a balanced perspective on this often polarizing topic.The episode focuses on a recent study from the Harvard School of Public Health that has purportedly found a connection between red meat consumption and type 2 diabetes. This study suggests that red meat consumption increases the risk of diabetes by 62%. However, upon further scrutiny, we find that the absolute risk difference between meat-eaters and non-meat eaters is a mere 0.52% versus 0.37%. Furthermore, the study relies heavily on food frequency questionnaires, a method known to have numerous inherent flaws, thus raising questions about the study's overall impact.The world of nutritional epidemiology is complex and fraught with potential pitfalls. One of the most significant issues is the use of confounding variables, factors that can interfere with the results of a study. For instance, when considering red meat consumption, how do we separate the impact of the meat itself from the other components often associated with it, such as high-fat sauces or refined grains? Additionally, inaccuracies in data collection methods, such as the use of food frequency questionnaires, can further muddy the waters.These epidemiological studies are not without their merits, as they often provide hypotheses that merit further exploration. However, it's important to remember that quality nutritional research can be elusive. Therefore, the focus should not just be on what food one consumes, but also the overall nutrition and lifestyle factors.To truly understand the implications of such studies, it is vital to consider the overall nutrition and lifestyle of an individual. A person's health is not just determined by their food choices but also their overall lifestyle. Factors such as physical activity levels, sleep patterns, stress levels, and even social determinants of health play a significant role in determining health outcomes. A hamburger consumed by a physically active person who maintains a balanced diet may not have the same health implications as the same hamburger consumed by a sedentary individual with a diet rich in processed foods.In conclusion, while it is essential to remain informed about the latest nutritional research, it's equally important to approach these studies with a critical eye. While the connection between red meat and type 2 diabetes is a topic that continues to garner attention, it's clear that more comprehensive research is needed. The key takeaway is that your health is not solely determined by individual food choices but by a complex interplay of lifestyle factors. As always, the best approach is to maintain a balanced diet, stay active, and make informed decisions about your health.For a thoughtful and more detailed review of this study and studies like this I highly recommend Zoe Harcombe's PhD terrific work. https://www.zoeharcombe.com/

Ready to have your understanding of BMI flipped on its head? We're diving into an intriguing study that suggests a BMI lower than 25 might be linked with decreased mortality. That's right, what you've been told about the ideal BMI could be all wrong. We also tackle the waist to hip ratio, showing you how to measure it and why it might be a better health marker than BMI. So, grab a tape measure and prepare for a health knowledge overhaul.

Are you ready to unlock the mysteries of protein and its pivotal role in our dietary intake? Strap in as we guide you through the complex world of essential amino acids, and the significant part they play in our bodies. We discuss the importance of achieving a balance in your protein consumption, focusing on the dietary reference intakes, and the potential risks of under-consuming protein. Discover why 25 grams of protein per meal can be beneficial for you, and the distinctions between plant and animal-based protein sources.Unravel the potential of different essential amino acids and the exceptional benefits of branch chain amino acids found in dairy and egg products. Did you know they are crucial for muscle sparing? We explore this and more, including the importance of sulfur-containing amino acids, typically found in animal proteins, for detoxification and various physiological processes. Discover the vital collateral nutrients, like B12, Vitamin D, DHA, heme-iron, and zinc, found in animal food sources that are easily absorbed and more bioavailable in our systems.Dive deeper into the world of IGF-1 and its significant role in brain health. We examine its importance for neurogenesis, cognitive preservation, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory processes. Learn about the potential risks and benefits of controlling IGF-1 levels, including an increased risk of breast and prostate cancer, and its balancing act with insulin resistance. We also delve into the unique role branched chain amino acids play in stem cell development and brain health. Lastly, find out how strength training and exercise can influence IGF-1 binding proteins, and why this could be a game-changer for managing IGF-1. Join us in this enlightening conversation as we enhance your understanding of protein intake and sources.

In this podcast Mark reviews the current paradigm linking environmental inputs-lifestyle with epigenetics and the human microbiome. He translates these connections ibto effective lifestyle medicine interventions. The PowerPoint below goes with the audio recording. You Tube recording can be found below. PowerPoint slides can be downloaded at www.thehealthedgepodcast.com Enjoy!

In this episode of the Health Edge Mark and John discuss areas of research they are closely following. John shares some interesting fatty acid research and introduces heptadecanoic acid as an emerging 17-carbon fat, important to healthy brain aging. Mark reviews some aging and longevity research he is following. Topics include epigenetic aging, biologic age regression using Yamanaka factors, gene and cell therapies, and senolytics.

In this episode of The Health Edge Mark and John review some papers that challenge the well accepted clinical meme that lowering LDL should be the focal point of reducing CV risk and all-cause mortality risk.Papers referenced:https://www.nature.com/articles/s4159...https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/6/6/e...https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...

In this episode of The Health Edge Mark and John review a recent paper drawing connections between excessive sodium restriction and insulin resistance. This adds to a growing body of research suggesting the restriction of sodium below 3-4 gms/day may in fact add to cardiometabolic risk. Current guidelines of 2300 mg/day or less fall well below these levels.

This is a replay of a prior podcast examining the relationship between sodium and hypertension. A growing body of research suggests there is a point below which e.g. 3,000 mg/day where risk is increased. This recording is a prelude to our upcoming podcast on sodium restriction and insulin resistance.

In this Health Edge podcast recording, Mark and John review a recent paper that drew a strong relationship between erythritol levels in the blood with major adverse cardiovascular (MACE) events. Mark and John anayize the study and offer perspective.https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-023-02223-9Another recent review of risks and benefits of erythritol.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9824470/

In this Health Edge recording Mark and John review recent data on the prevalence of CKD in the US. They review common drivers of CKD and offer many lifestyle medicine recommendations for prevention and management.

In this episode of the Health Edge, mark and John review two important studies. The first is a systematic review/meta analysis that clearly links loss of lean body mass (sarcopenia) with all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease risk. The second paper reviews the underlying mechanisms that link lower muscle mass with greater risk of cognitive decline with aging.https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/56/13/755.infohttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35661882/

Few age-related diseases are more devastating than Alzheimer's. A recent study from Columbia University suggests in individuals 65+ years of age, 10% have a dementia diagnosis and almost 25% have a diagnosis of MCI or mild cognitive decline. For the 90+ age demographic, over 30% have a dementia diagnosis. The costs to the individuals and those who care for them is staggering. In this recording, mark and John review the data from this paper (Annals of Neurology October 2022) and offer a different perspective on how to prevent, what today, feels like a one-way street.

Cardiovascular disease continues to be the #1 cause of mortality in the US and around the world. In this episode of The Health Edge, Mark and John review a paper that begins to address why it is that as we age, our risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all other "age-related diseases" goes up dramatically. In this 2021 paper from the Journal of The American College of Cardiology, inhabitants of the Ikaria Island in Greece, a Blue Zone culture demonstrate lower levels of age-related changes e.g. inflammation, high insulin, short telomeres and offers many reasons for lower CVD risk, mortality and expanded healthspan.https://www.jacc.org/doi/epdf/10.1016...https://www.thehealthedgepodcast.com

In this recording of The Health Edge, Mark and John discuss the importance of dietary intake and sources of omega 6 and omega 3 fats. An abundance of epidemiological and clinical trials suggest high ratios of O-6/O-3 drive increased inflammation, oxidative stress and are associated with increased cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Mark and John look at the biochemistry and some clinical trials that support avoidance of processed omega-6 vegetable oils and encourage more whole omega-3 sources.The research papers reviewed can be found at: www.thehealthedgepodcast.com

In this episode of The Health Edge Mark and John review some recent studies that continue to challenge the long held belief that saturated fatty acid intake (SFAs) is directly linked to diabetes and cardiometabolic risk.https://www.thelancet.com/article/S0140-6736(17)32252-3/fulltexthttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36056919/

In this recording of The Health Edge, Mark and John interview Mark Campbell PhD. We discuss the science linking time in Nature with global health outcomes. About Mark Campbell: Dr. Mark A. Campbell uses his background in wellness, sports medicine, exercise science, and performance psychology to impact change across all areas of life. His diverse background affords him the ability to help audiences see the world through many lenses.Mark shares his unique blend of holistic education, application, andexperience with audiences worldwide. Mark spent almost a decadeleading performance and wellness-based programs for the US Army and the Department of Defense, which included assisting the military and government leads from fourteen Allied nations in developing transitionprograms for their wounded, ill, and injured military populations. He then acted as the Director of Mental Conditioning for the World Series ChampionWashington Nationals. Mark holds both the Certified Wellness Practitioner (CWP) and Certified Worksite Wellness Specialist (CWWS) through the National Wellness Institute, were he currently serves as the Senior Fellow for Healthcare and Ability.https://campbell-performance.com/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32668...

In this latest Health Edge video  John and Mark discuss their perspectives  on protein intake. How much? Animal versus plant?

In this episode of The Health Edge Mark and John review a recent study published by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, Trends and Disparities in Cardiometabolic Health Among U.S. Adults, 1999-2018. Mark and John reflect on how we got here and why this is so important to recognize and respond to. Lifestyle drivers and interventions are discussed that have the potential to powerfully reverse these concerning trends.Article referenced: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35798...

Is it possible that consuming too much fruit could be detrimental to your health? Are all fruits the same? In this recording of The Health Edge Mark and John will explore the relationship between dietary fructose intake (from sugar and high fructose corn syrup and fruits), endogenous metabolic conversion of glucose to fructose (high glycemic foods), and high salt intake (> 5,000 mg sodium/day) with high uric acid cardiometabolic syndrome risk. The evolutionary biologic importance of these pathways as an ancient survival mechanism when food sources were limited has become a major driver of chronic, complex disease in a contemporary context of high sugar and abundant year-round fruit availability. They elaborate on the research of Robert Lustig MD (UCSF), Richard Johnson MD (University of Colorado)and Robert Ludwig MD, PhD (Harvard). Enjoy!Articles referenced can be found at: https://www.thehealthedgepodcast.com/You Tube Video can be found at: https://youtu.be/jMutUONBt1o

In this episode of The Health Edge Mark and John review two papers that suggest higher levels of vitamin D via supplementation may slow our biologic clocks as measured by epigenetic methylation patterns. The implications are fascinating! YouTube link: https://youtu.be/O3UD62Pk9fEPapers reviewed:Vitamin D supplementation is associated with slower epigenetic aginghttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35562603/Effects of Vitamin D3 Supplementation on Epigenetic Aging in Overweight and Obese African Americans With Suboptimal Vitamin D Status: A Randomized Clinical Trialhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30256915/

In this episode of The Health Edge Mark and John review a recently published paper affirming proof of concept: healthy lifestyle may in fact reverse biologic aging or slow "biologic clocks" via epigenetic methylation patterns. Potential reversal of epigenetic age using a diet and lifestyle intervention: a pilot randomized clinical trialhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8064200/

In this episode of The Health Edge, Mark shares a recording from January 21, 2022 reviewing the current science of aging and longevity. This was the first of a series of 6 webinars sponsored by OLLI Berkshires. https://berkshireolli.org/ScienceOfAgingWinter22The pdf handout from this presentation can be downloaded at www.thehealthedgepodcast.com

In this episode of The Health Edge Mark and John review a paper demonstrating significant reductions in NAFLD with both 5:2 fasting mimicking or LCHF over just 12 weeks.Article can be found at:https://reader.elsevier.com/reader/sd/pii/S258955592100032X?token=5364332DCA18EABB9179131EF7F061F8AE705EE83CE947284A96CC9749AC9AF4E4C9FDA2D11BF95A0800388E3C0F4F6D&originRegion=us-east-1&originCreation=20210427224820

In this episode of The Health Edge mark and John review an important paper that suggests obesity to be more a consequence of higher insulin than a cause. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2749271

In this Health Edge podcast, John and Mark review a recent paper published in the New England Journal of Medicine that links higher intake of high-glycemic foods and beverages with higher all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2007123

Drew Pearlman Interview:  Dr. Mark Pettus is a triple-board certified Internist, Nephrologist, and Integrative Medicine physician practicing for over 25 years.   He is also the author of two books, The Savvy Patient: The Ultimate Advocate for Quality Health Care and It's All in Your Head: Change Your Mind, Change Your Health.  He hosts The Health Edge Podcast along side John Bagnulo.During the pandemic, humanity is dealing with a sustained level of stress.  Mark explains that our “fight or flight” sympathetic nervous system is an important survival response when it is short lived; however, this prolonged stress can cause a disruption in our circadian rhythm, causing issues with sleep and mental health.  This raises the question: how do we become more resilient to these stressors?Mark tells us that when it comes to the virus, there is a real threat out there, but there is a lot you can do with food and lifestyle strategies to empower your health and the health of your loved ones.For instance, Mark offers some key food interventions like avoiding processed and sugary foods while eating more healthy fats and vegetables.  He shares some of the critical nutrients necessary to strengthen the immune system, such as fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, and K as well as water soluble vitamin C.Mark also emphasizes the role of the gut in keeping our immune system defenses strong.  For instance, it's estimated that over 2/3 of the immune system is housed in the gut lining.  “The gut is probably as much an immunologic organ as it is an organ of digestion.”  This ecosystem of trillions of microbes dwelling in our gut – our microbiome – acts in partnership with our immune system.A major problem with the way we are currently living is a result of “circadian disruption.”  Most of us don't get enough natural light during the morning and day hours, and we get too much artificial light from our electronic devices at night.Another factor that interferes with our wake / sleep cycle is that we eat all day long and very often, late into the night.  This late night feeding confuses the brain and is not a normal evolutionary biological pattern.Mark tells us that when it comes to the virus, there is a real threat out there, but there is a lot you can do with food and lifestyle strategies to empower your health and the health of your loved ones.For instance, Mark offers some key food interventions like avoiding processed and sugary foods while eating more healthy fats and vegetables.  He shares some of the critical nutrients necessary to strengthen the immune system, such as fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, and K as well as water soluble vitamin C.Mark also emphasizes the role of the gut in keeping our immune system defenses strong.  For instance, it's estimated that over 2/3 of the immune system is housed in the gut lining.  “The gut is probably as much an immunologic organ as it is an organ of digestion.”  This ecosystem of trillions of microbes dwelling in our gut – our microbiome – acts in partnership with our immune system.A major problem with the way we are currently living is a result of “circadian disruption.”  Most of us don't get enough natural light during the morning and day hours, and we get too much artificial light from our electronic devices at night.Another factor that interferes with our wake / sleep cycle is that we eat all day long and very often, late into the night.  This late night feeding confuses the brain and is not a normal evolutionary biological pattern.Mark talks about what the virus can teach us.  He says “the pandemic has lifted the veil of the many inequities that exist in our culture.  Those with less are hurt even more, those with more are hurt less.”  During these challenging times, Mark says that we must come t

This is a recently recorded presentation for the 2021 Physicians for Ancestral Health Symposium.

In this videocast of The Health Edge Mark and John review some research linking higher intake of microbiota associated carbs (MAC) with biome diversity and health outcomes. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7143995/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4896489/  

In this Health Edge podcast, John and Mark review a paper that reviews the many effects of UVB light on the skin and systemic neuroendocrine and immune systems. They discuss the importance of photobiomodulation and the health implications. For mind, mood, pain, and inflammation, our sophisticated skin and retinal chromophores are quantum portals to health in the presence of sunlight.

In this Health Edge recording Mark and John review a paper by Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Jared Diamond PhD. In this paper, Dr. Diamond suggested, "The adoption of agriculture, supposedly our most decisive step toward a better life, was in many ways a catastrophe from which we have never recovered."

n this videocast, Mark and John review the stunningly low prevalence of metabolic health in US adults and offer some reflections on how best to improve this critical dimension of health and longevity.

In this videocast, Mark and John review the stunningly low prevalence of metabolic health in US adults and offer some reflections on how best to improve this critical dimension of health and longevity.