Solving the Puzzle with Dr. Datis Kharrazian

Epizody

• Episode 94: The Truth About Cholesterol, CAC Scores, and Heart Attack Risk 07.07.2026 21min

  In today’s episode, Randy Vawdrey dives into cardiovascular prevention with a special focus on coronary artery calcium (CAC) testing. He guides us through why traditional cardiovascular risk factors like LDL cholesterol, HDL, and BMI may not be as predictive of heart attack risk as once thought, and how CAC scores can provide a much clearer picture.You'll hear about the latest research, practical steps for interpreting CAC scores, and the lifestyle and supplemental interventions that can help halt the progression of cardiovascular disease. Enroll in the Master Class: Preventive Cardiology: Comprehensive & Integrative CV Risk Reduction with Randy Vawdrey, NP-C at https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/vawdrey-cardioTIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Discussing cardiac risk assessment factors05:50 Predictive value of CAC scores07:17 Understanding Agatston scores10:22 Boulder cardiologist's health tips13:52 Discussing methylfolic acid and statins16:42 Managing stress with coronary scores20:17 Podcast sponsor shout-out and disclaimersSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 93: Optimizing Omega 3 Levels for Brain and Heart Health 02.07.2026 24min

  Today, we’re diving into the world of Omega 3 fatty acids with Randy Vawdrey, NP-C. He unpacks why they are so critical for brain and cardiovascular health, how dietary patterns and supplement choices can make or break your Omega 3 levels, and what the latest research tells us about optimal dosing and safety. Whether you're a clinician, health professional, or simply looking to optimize your own well-being, this episode will help you understand the science behind fatty acid ratios, how to properly interpret lab values, and the importance of choosing the right kind of supplementation. Enroll in the Master Class: Preventive Cardiology: Comprehensive & Integrative CV Risk Reduction with Randy Vawdrey, NP-C at https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/vawdrey-cardio00:00 Omega 3s and cell membranes05:37 Rise of Seed Oils in America07:54 Omega 6:3 ratio in veterans12:10 Understanding omega-3 sources and protocol16:20 Omega 3 absorption discussion17:14 Discussing Omega 3 dosage recommendations22:03 Discussing Omega 3 supplements23:34 Promoting online courses and resourcesSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 92: Understanding Chronic Pain and Fatigue 23.06.2026 26min

  Today, we’re diving into the enigma of chronic pain and fatigue. Dr. Kharrazian unpacks the science and physiology behind pain, revealing that it’s not simply a sensory experience but an intricate interaction between our nerves, brain, and even our emotions. From explanations of hyperalgesia and allodynia to the crucial role the limbic system and amygdala play in amplifying or diminishing our experience of pain, this episode bridges the gap between what’s happening beneath the surface and practical strategies for those suffering from ongoing discomfort. Register for Chronic Fatigue and Pain Syndromes Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications at https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/chronic-fatigue-and-pain-syndromesTo become a Certified Functional Medicine practitioner, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/⁠. Try our 7-day free trial, no credit card required. 00:00 Understanding pain and sensitization04:19 Understanding brain-based pain signals08:28 Understanding referred pain mechanisms12:02 Triggers and amplification of pain15:07 Explaining gait control theory17:07 How the sympathetic system works22:08 Understanding central pain syndromes25:06 Closing and listener resourcesSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 91: Managing Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Menopause 16.06.2026 42min

  In this episode, Leslie Fuller, ND focused on the often-overlooked musculoskeletal symptoms experienced by women during perimenopause and menopause. She discusses strategies for effective management, including nutrition, resistance training, hormone assessment, and addressing both structural and functional health. This episode offers healthcare professionals and patients evidence-based approaches to support musculoskeletal health through the menopausall transition.Enroll now in: Under-Recognized, Under-Treated, and Misrepresented Realities of the Perimenopause and Menopause Transition, with Leslie Fuller, ND and Jillian Moehle, ND at https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/fuller-moehle-perimenopause00:00 Menopause-related musculoskeletal issues06:32 Assessing musculoskeletal conditions10:25 Identifying osteoporosis risk factors13:48 Comprehensive management for inflammation repair15:07 Discussing menopause and bone health18:48 Future FDA approval and nutrition strategies24:30 Effects of Isoflavones and Lignans25:40 Calcium and vitamin D benefits31:14 Creatine and CoQ10 for muscle health33:42 Importance of aerobic and resistance training38:13 Combating sarcopenia through referrals39:17 Screening for menopausal musculoskeletal syndromeSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 90: GSM Essentials for 2025: Top Treatment Updates, Safety Guidance, and Patient Impact 09.06.2026 32min

  In this episode, Jillian Moehle focused on the latest evidence-based strategies for recognizing and treating Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). She explored newly updated guidelines from the American Urological Association, emphasizing the importance of proactive screening, a comprehensive approach to patient history, and the range of therapeutic options available, from non-hormonal treatments like moisturizers and lubricants, to hormone-based therapies including low-dose vaginal estrogen. Several points were raised, including safety considerations, the removal of the FDA black box warning on vaginal estrogen, and the crucial role of pelvic floor health in patient outcomes.Enroll now in: Under-Recognized, Under-Treated, and Misrepresented Realities of the Perimenopause and Menopause Transition, with Leslie Fuller, ND and Jillian Moehle, ND at https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/fuller-moehle-perimenopause00:00 Vaginal treatment recommendations and concerns05:26 Discussing hormone therapy alternatives08:13 Treatment options for vaginal health13:16 FDA removes black box warning15:24 Support for vaginal estrogen use18:13 Using GoodRx and applying cream22:00 Possible side effects and management24:54 Impact of GSM on women's health30:59 Podcast outro and resources sharingSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 89: Why Millions of Women Were Failed by the Women’s Health Initiative Study 02.06.2026 18min

  In this episode, we’re diving into the complex and often misunderstood topic of menopause and perimenopause. Despite affecting every woman who lives into late life, menopause has long been underfunded, understudied, and minimized both culturally and medically. Today, we’ll explore why clinical care for women in the menopause transition has lagged behind, examining the deep historical roots of gender bias in research, the fragmentation of women's healthcare, and the profound impact of the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study, which triggered decades of fear and misinformation about hormone therapy. Enroll now in: Under-Recognized, Under-Treated, and Misrepresented Realities of the Perimenopause and Menopause Transition, with Leslie Fuller, ND and Jillian Moehle, ND at https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/fuller-moehle-perimenopause00:00 Historical oversight in menopause care06:00 Women's Health Initiative study flaws08:29 Impact of WHI study miscalculation10:28 Misinterpretation of breast cancer risks13:44 Correcting hormone therapy myths17:23 Podcast resources and educational coursesSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 88: Hormone Therapy, Breast Cancer, and Menopause 28.05.2026 32min

  In today's episode, Dr. Mark Holthouse dives into the fears surrounding breast cancer and hormone replacement therapy, separating myth from evidence with a critical look at the real data. Our expert speaker unpacks the latest clinical trials and position statements, clarifying the nuanced relationship between various hormone therapies and breast cancer risk.We’ll explore what the research says about synthetic versus bioidentical hormones, address common patient concerns, and provide actionable insights for risk assessment and individualized care. This episode delivers an integrative approach to hormone therapy and breast cancer, bridging the gap between scientific literature and real-world practice. To enroll in the Sex Steroid Optimization Master Class with Dr. Mark Holthouse, go to https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/holthouse-hormoneTo become a Certified Functional Medicine practitioner, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/⁠. Try our 7-day free trial, no credit card required. 00:00 WHI study on hormone therapy04:45 Hormone therapy risks discussion07:58 Discussing natural vs synthetic HRT13:11 Transdermal hormone therapy studies17:55 Rethinking full-fat dairy for women21:11 Time restricted eating for women22:57 Assessing breast cancer risk25:30 Understanding genetic risk factors29:37 Evaluating breast cancer risk factorsSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 87: Clinical Strategies for Tackling Fatigue Through Mitochondrial Health 20.05.2026 28min

  In today’s episode, we dive into the “clinical faces of fatigue.” Join Datis Kharrazian as we explore why some individuals never fully recover from illnesses or injuries, the intricate link between mood and brain energy, and why two patients with similar medical conditions like anemia can have vastly different experiences of fatigue.We’ll unravel how mitochondrial dysfunctions, both inherited and acquired, lie at the heart of chronic fatigue, depression, fibromyalgia, and other conditions often resistant to simple solutions. You’ll discover why bagfuls of supplements aren’t enough, and how real recovery requires understanding and addressing the unique bioenergetic roadblocks each patient faces, ranging from oxidative stress and poor sleep to blood sugar imbalances and exposure to environmental toxins.Register for Chronic Fatigue and Pain Syndromes Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications at https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/chronic-fatigue-and-pain-syndromesTo become a Certified Functional Medicine practitioner, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/⁠. Try our 7-day free trial, no credit card required. 00:00 Factors affecting mitochondrial function03:55 Optimizing patient bioenergetics basics09:27 Mitochondria and cell evolution12:33 Focus on acquired mitochondrial dysfunctions14:23 Mitochondrial ATP production process20:22 Ketogenic diet and energy pathways21:15 Ketogenic diet for chronic fatigue27:02 Exploring functional medicine resourcesSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 86: Oral and Injectable Peptides for Recovery 05.05.2026 30min

  In this episode, functional medicine clinician Dr. Rajka Milanovic Galbraith dive into the world of peptides for recovery, exploring both oral and injectable options. She breaks down the latest clinical insights on popular peptides like BPC157, KPV, Lorazatide, TB4, and PeptiStrong, sharing case studies and practical strategies for supporting gut health, autoimmune recovery, muscle maintenance, and post-injury healing. Whether you're a healthcare practitioner, a certified nutritionist, or simply looking for ways to optimize your health, this episode bridges complex science with practical solutions you can implement today. Enroll now in: Precision Protocols Unlocked: Guide to Nutrigenetics & Peptide Mastery, with Rajka Milanovic Galbraith, MD⚡ Learn to integrate genetics, micronutrients, and peptides into patient care.📅 May 23, 2026🌐 https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/galbraith-peptides00:00 Benefits and side effects of oral bpc04:37 Addressing complex digestive issues08:35 Managing gut inflammation11:53 Using Pepti Strong for healing15:15 Discussing growth hormone peptides17:55 Growth hormone and cognitive function20:38 Recognizing and managing drug reactions26:00 Using peptides for post-op recovery29:11 Podcast outro and resourcesSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 85: Transforming Autism Care with Nutrigenetics and Methylation Pathways 29.04.2026 32min

  In this episode, Rajka Milanovic Galbraith, MD, dives into nutrigenetics and its transformative impact on mental health and chronic conditions. Using real-life patient stories, Dr. Galbraith illustrates how genetic insights and targeted nutrient support can unlock profound change. We’ll explore personalized approaches from thought leaders like Amy Yasko, Ben Lynch, William Walsh, and Bob Miller, discussing practical protocols for methylation, balancing minerals, and managing inflammation. Enroll now in: Precision Protocols Unlocked: Guide to Nutrigenetics & Peptide Mastery, with Rajka Milanovic Galbraith, MD⚡ Learn to integrate genetics, micronutrients, and peptides into patient care.📅 May 23, 2026🌐 https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/galbraith-peptides00:00 Balancing neurochemicals in children04:16 Starting folate and B12 supplementation07:00 Discussing William Walsh's approach10:41 Understanding methylfolate tolerance15:31 Patients help promote our practice18:54 Genetic mutations and food sensitivity23:19 Learning about methylation pathways23:58 Evaluating a child's diet and genes29:56 Discussing toxic exposures and genetics31:06 Podcast resources and final thoughtsSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 84: Exploring Oxidative Stress, GST Genes, and Hormonal Detox Strategies 21.04.2026 27min

  In this episode, we dive into the world of oxidative stress, GST gene patterns, and hormone genetics, uncovering how these factors influence chronic illness and overall health. You'll hear about innovative testing strategies, gene patterns seen in chronically unwell patients, and real-world case studies that illustrate the practical steps clinicians can take to restore health and balance.Whether you're a healthcare professional seeking to advance your knowledge or an individual looking to understand the science behind fatigue, hormone imbalance, and detoxification, this episode bridges the gap between complex genetics and actionable solutions. Enroll now in: Precision Protocols Unlocked: Guide to Nutrigenetics & Peptide Mastery, with Rajka Milanovic Galbraith, MD⚡ Learn to integrate genetics, micronutrients, and peptides into patient care.📅 May 23, 2026🌐 https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/galbraith-peptides00:00 Identifying high hydrogen peroxide symptoms03:06 Addressing brain fog and fatigue08:11 Combating jet lag with supplements12:01 Understanding hormone breakdown genetics13:36 Finasteride side effects and solutions19:18 Importance of Selenium and Zinc21:10 Initial treatment and Dutch test results25:50 Podcast resources and disclaimers26:53 End of the episode reminderSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 83: The Functional Anatomy of Pain 14.04.2026 31min

  In this episode with Dr. Datis Kharrazian, we dive into the mechanisms that underlie pain, exploring key terms like nociception, hyperalgesia, allodynia, and sensitization. You'll learn how pain signals travel through first, second, and third order neurons, why some injuries result in referral pain, and how chemical mediators and the sympathetic nervous system amplify pain perception.We’ll break down how the brain interprets, localizes, and emotionally responds to pain, revealing the roles of the somatosensory cortex, amygdala, insular cortex, and other regions. Discover why pain isn’t always proportional to tissue damage and how psychological and physiological variables, including mood and limbic system activation, shape your experience. Whether you're a healthcare professional, nutritionist, or someone managing chronic pain, this episode bridges scientific insight with practical understanding, helping you see pain from a whole new perspective.Register for Chronic Fatigue and Pain Syndromes Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications at https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/chronic-fatigue-and-pain-syndromesTo become a Certified Functional Medicine practitioner, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/⁠. Try our 7-day free trial, no credit card required. ⁠For Certified Functional Nutrition education for both practitioners and lay people, visit https://afnlm.com/⁠00:00 Understanding types of pain04:57 How mood affects pain perception08:02 Why visceral pain feels external12:04 How pain signals are amplified15:58 How pain is blocked19:44 How the brain processes pain22:12 Understanding central pain syndromes26:01 Explaining brain pathways for pain30:06 Podcast outro and resources31:09 Closing message and reminderSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 82: Micronutrient Deficiency Signs 07.04.2026 32min

  Today, we're diving into the often overlooked signs and symptoms of micronutrient deficiencies, from vitamins A, D, and K to magnesium, zinc, and beyond. You'll discover how subtle clues like gritty eyes, dream recall, muscle cramps, and even pink tongues can signal deeper nutritional gaps impacting mood, energy, and neurological health. Whether you're a practitioner seeking a sharper clinical eye or simply want to optimize your well-being, this episode supplies you with insights and tools to decode your body's signals and restore balance.Register for the Nutrition-Focused Physical Assessment Master Class with Dr. Liz Lipski at https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/lipski-nutritionTo become a Certified Functional Medicine practitioner, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/⁠. Try our 7-day free trial, no credit card required. ⁠For Certified Functional Nutrition education for both practitioners and lay people, visit https://afnlm.com/⁠00:00 Signs of vitamin A deficiency06:21 Vitamin E and K deficiencies07:30 Fermented foods and vitamin K10:48 Understanding methylation and B vitamins16:42 Effects of vitamin B6 on sleep18:25 Signs and symptoms of B12 deficiency23:37 Identifying causes of muscle cramps25:57 Recognizing magnesium deficiency signs30:20 Signs of potassium and zinc issues31:28 Wrapping up and resources offeredSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 81: How Skin Reveals Deeper Health Issues and Nutritional Imbalances 01.04.2026 31min

  In this episode, we’re diving into the world of skin health, from what radiant, healthy skin should look like to the many signals our skin can send about underlying health issues. We'll explore common skin manifestations, nutritional deficiencies, and practical strategies to support skin, from dryness and discoloration to eczema, rosacea, and more. Whether you're a practitioner or someone interested in optimizing your own health, this episode bridges complex science and practical tips you can apply today. Register for the Nutrition-Focused Physical Assessment Master Class with Dr. Liz Lipski at https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/lipski-nutritionTo become a Certified Functional Medicine practitioner, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/⁠. Try our 7-day free trial, no credit card required. ⁠For Certified Functional Nutrition education for both practitioners and lay people, visit https://afnlm.com/⁠00:00 Skin health and nutritional basics03:56 Vitamin A and bruising07:41 Eating healthy fats and fish12:14 Identifying allergies and histamine response15:07 Using food sensitivity tests19:14 Testing for sensitivities and allergies21:16 Food sensitivities and sweating25:26 Talking about severe jaundice27:59 Health effects of silver supplements30:30 Closing and resources for listenersSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 80: Dr. Darla Booth DC, AFMC, Managing Autoimmune Patients Successfully 29.03.2026 40min

  In this Practitioner Spotlight episode, we sit down with Dr. Darla Booth, a seasoned chiropractor and functional medicine practitioner based in Los Gatos, California. Over the past 20 years, Dr. Booth has transitioned her practice to focus on complex functional medicine cases, with a special emphasis on autoimmunity. Join us as Dr. Booth shares how discovering autoimmune markers in her own and her daughter’s bloodwork inspired a deep dive into strategies for managing and calming autoimmune conditions. We explore the evolution of her clinical approach, the challenges of educating and supporting patients, and the power of group care and community in fostering healing. Dr. Darla Booth, DC, AFMC specializes in helping patients with complex health issues identify their root cause, improve symptoms, and stack habits to optimize their health with functional medicine protocols. Her care complements the support patients receive through Western medicine; taking a big picture approach to health through lab work analysis, lifestyle adjustments, and nutritional support. Chiropractic and other conservative, natural care options for adults and children are Dr. Booth's specialties. She is skilled in nutritional counseling for food allergies, cranial therapy, TMJ treatment, and more.To become a Certified Functional Medicine practitioner, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/⁠. Try our 7-day free trial, no credit card required. ⁠For Certified Functional Nutrition education for both practitioners and lay people, visit https://afnlm.com/⁠00:00 Discovering autoimmunity in bloodwork03:56 Launching an autoimmune program07:08 Starting group coaching sessions11:56 Helping clients rebuild health13:20 Addressing leaky gut in autoimmune19:00 Understanding digestion and gut health21:52 Creating a treatment plan23:58 Small shifts for immune health26:47 Prioritizing health and wellness choices29:43 How food impacts your body33:57 Functional medicine's credibility and impact37:18 Using RUPA and Fullscript39:48 Resources for practitioners and individualsSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 79: Nutrition Focused Physical Assessment with Dr. Liz Lipski 24.03.2026 27min

  In this episode, Dr. Liz Lipski, a leader in clinical nutrition and author of Digestive Wellness dives into the foundational practice of nutrition-focused physical assessment.Dr. Lipski explains how simple observations like cracks in a friend’s tongue over dinner or dark circles under a child’s eyes, can become powerful clues in solving chronic and complex health puzzles. She emphasizes the importance of integrating physical assessments with patient history, lifestyle intake forms, and lab data, demonstrating how even a five-minute exam can shape the entire care plan.Through case stories and practical examples, Dr. Lipski illustrates the vital role nutrition professionals play in the healthcare team, and why rediscovering hands-on assessment is a key to better outcomes in our modern, often rushed medical world. Register for the Nutrition-Focused Physical Assessment Master Class with Dr. Liz Lipski at https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/lipski-nutritionTo become a Certified Functional Medicine practitioner, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/⁠. Try our 7-day free trial, no credit card required. ⁠For Certified Functional Nutrition education for both practitioners and lay people, visit https://afnlm.com/⁠00:00 "Nutrition-Focused Physical Assessment"03:37 "Body Clues and Nutrition Insights"09:48 "Chronic Health Needs Lifestyle Focus"12:28 "Nutrition's Power in Healing"17:21 "Riboflavin for Odor Relief"19:05 "First Impressions Matter"22:47 Cooking, Nutrition, and Self-Care26:08 "Functional Medicine Training Hub"Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 78: How Mitochondrial Dysfunction Drives Fatigue, Depression, and Chronic Pain Syndromes 17.03.2026 22min

  In today’s episode, we’re diving into the impact of mitochondria on chronic conditions like fatigue, pain, and depression. You’ll hear why optimizing basic factors like sleep, movement, and stable blood sugar isn’t just “wellness” advice, but can actually be game changers for patients struggling with conditions such as leaky gut, Hashimoto’s, fibromyalgia, or neuropathic pain.Datis Kharrazian unpacks the science behind mitochondrial bioenergetics and reveals how even the tiniest steps, like improving circadian rhythm or addressing subtle nutritional imbalances can help untangle the complex web of chronic illness. You’ll also learn about the connection between mitochondrial dysfunction, increased pain sensitivity, and how negative neuroplasticity can turn temporary pain into a lasting syndrome. Whether you’re a practitioner, a patient, or someone passionate about functional medicine, this episode will empower you to look beyond protocols and focus on the underlying mechanisms that drive recovery.Register for Chronic Fatigue and Pain Syndromes Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications at https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/chronic-fatigue-and-pain-syndromesTo become a Certified Functional Medicine practitioner, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/⁠. Try our 7-day free trial, no credit card required. ⁠For Certified Functional Nutrition education for both practitioners and lay people, visit https://afnlm.com/⁠00:00 Circadian Rhythm Improves Recovery09:38 Mitochondria, Calcium, and Chronic Pain10:46 Chronic Pain Linked to ER Stress15:42 Mitochondrial Health Relieves Chronic Pain17:34 "Fibromyalgia Mechanisms and Pain Reduction"21:41 "Functional Medicine Training Resources"Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 77: The Root Causes of Chronic Fatigue and Pain Syndromes 11.03.2026 28min

  In this episode, Dr. Kharrazian dives into one of the most challenging and important topics facing both patients and practitioners: chronic fatigue and pain syndromes.If you've ever wondered why fatigue and pain are such stubborn and complex complaints, or why so many patients feel stuck despite having normal lab results, this conversation is for you. Dr. Kharrazian explores the critical role of cellular energy production—specifically mitochondrial bioenergetics—in recovery from injury and in managing conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. He breaks down how disruptions in energy pathways can cascade into mood issues, pain syndromes, and overall decreased resilience, and explains why simply treating symptoms isn’t enough.This episode also underscores the importance of going beyond a “one-solution” mindset, urging practitioners to delve deeper into the mechanisms that affect their patients’ energy levels. Register for Chronic Fatigue and Pain Syndromes Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications at https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/chronic-fatigue-and-pain-syndromesTo become a Certified Functional Medicine practitioner, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/⁠. Try our 7-day free trial, no credit card required. ⁠For Certified Functional Nutrition education for both practitioners and lay people, visit https://afnlm.com/⁠00:00 "Understanding Fatigue and Bioenergetics"04:58 "ATP: Key to Energy and Health"08:00 "Optimizing Energy and Resilience"11:34 Mitochondria and Fatigue Factors15:57 Anemia and Energy Function Insights17:48 Mitochondria: Origins and Clinical Relevance20:56 "Inherited vs. Acquired Mitochondrial Issues"23:50 Mitochondrial Function and Enzymes27:31 "Functional Medicine & Health Resources"Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 76: Practical Functional Medicine 03.03.2026 30min

  Dr. Dave Rakel introduces the ECHO model for medical decision making, a practical framework that evaluates four key factors: Efficacy (evidence of benefit), Cost, Harm (evidence of harm), and Opinion (patient preferences and bias). He emphasizes that treatment decisions should balance not only how well something works, but also its potential risks and its alignment with patient values.He explains his evidence-versus-harm rating system, grading evidence from A to C and potential harm from 1 to 3. The ideal intervention has strong evidence with minimal harm, but he notes that therapies with moderate evidence and low risk may often be preferable to those with stronger evidence and greater potential harm.Dr. Rakel also discusses the growing role of AI in medicine, comparing tools like Gemini, Perplexity, and Open Evidence. While AI can assist with research, he stresses that informed clinicians who use these tools thoughtfully achieve the best outcomes.Finally, he shares clinical insights, including the use of low-dose naltrexone for fibromyalgia, the broad utility of amitriptyline, the cognitive risks associated with anticholinergic burden, and research linking processed foods, alcohol, and sugar to cognitive decline—while showing that shifting toward whole foods may significantly reduce that risk.This guest speaker Master Class is part of the Kharrazian Institute Functional Medicine Education Program. To become a Certified Functional Medicine practitioner, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/⁠. Try our 7-day free trial, no credit card required. 00:00 "Balancing Evidence and Harm"05:52 "Integrative Medicine: Art and Science"08:16 "PPI Use: Risks and Bias"10:03 "Risks of Long-Term PPI Use"15:06 "Top Drugs for Fibromyalgia"17:04 "Life's Essential 9 Explained"21:22 "Optimizing Health to Prevent Dementia"23:51 Best and Worst Brain Beverages29:13 Functional Medicine Training ResourcesSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Episode 75: Dr. Dave Rakel on the Placebo Effect 25.02.2026 42min

  In this lecture, Dr. Dave Rakel explores the placebo effect—"the ability to stimulate self-healing without deception"—and reveals how perception, connection, and empathy are among the most powerful healing mechanisms available to practitioners.Dr. Rakel unpacks the neuroscience of perception, showing how our conditioned minds create physical responses that determine health or disease. He shares groundbreaking research: optimists live six years longer than pessimists, stress perception correlates with fibromyalgia pain severity, and how we view food (guilt vs. celebration) affects cortisol and weight gain.Through compelling studies, he demonstrates that therapeutic touch activates healing more effectively than pills, that clinician empathy measurably shortens the duration of the common cold and boosts immune markers (IL-8 and neutrophils), and that perceiving a caring connection can equal 8mg of morphine for pain relief. This guest speaker Master Class is part of the Kharrazian Institute Functional Medicine Education Program. To become a Certified Functional Medicine practitioner, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/⁠. Try our 7-day free trial, no credit card required. 0:00 - The Placebo Effect: Self-Healing Without Deception8:20 - Perception Science: How Beliefs Create Physical Responses16:15 - Stress Perception & Disease: The Cortisol Cascade22:50 - Why SSRIs Barely Beat Placebo26:35 - Psychedelic Placebo Study: 65% Had Spiritual Experiences34:10 - Why Touch Beats Pills: Manual Therapy vs. Drugs42:30 - The Clinician Effect: Empathy = 8mg Morphine46:50 - Common Cold Study: Empathy Reduces Duration & Boosts Immunity55:40 - Patient 406: The Cost of DisconnectionSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.