Rational Wellness Podcast

Epizode

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  Mold Remediation with Michael Rubino | Rational Wellness Podcast 473 07.08.2026 1h 7min

  Mold, Indoor Air Quality, and Building a Healthy Home with Michael Rubino Dr. Ben Weitz introduces the Rational Wellness Podcast and interviews mold remediation and indoor air quality expert Michael Rubino of Home Cleanse and the Change the Air Foundation about mold, indoor air quality, and creating a healthy home. Rubino describes entering the field after Hurricane Sandy, observing people remaining ill despite cosmetic restorations driven by insurance limits and cost-cutting, and notes an EPA statistic that people spend about 90% of their time indoors. They discuss widespread water damage in homes, mold and bacteria as linked problems, and how new construction can develop mold from poor material handling and inadequate moisture control. Rubino addresses wildfire-related indoor contamination (heavy metals, VOCs, ash), recommends dust and VOC testing, critiques fogging and bleach-based approaches, emphasizes HVAC maintenance and filtration, and outlines the foundation's education, research, and policy goals. 00:59 Meet Michael Rubino 01:50 Why Indoor Air Matters 03:26 Hurricane Sandy Wakeup 05:40 Insurance Drives Remediation 06:45 Mold Coverage Caps 08:57 Denied Claim Story 11:13 How Common Is Water Damage 12:14 Mold In New Builds 17:49 Dried In Explained 19:09 Fire Smoke Toxins Indoors 22:35 Testing After Fires 27:15 Drywall And Safer Walls  29:14 Mold Inspection Dust Test 30:10 ERMI Confusion Solved  32:48 Ordering And Next Steps 32:57 Mold Plus Bacteria 34:02 Mold vs Bacteria Basics 34:54 Next Wave Testing 35:41 Bleach Fogging Myths 37:00 Porous vs Nonporous Cleanup 40:42 What to Toss or Keep 42:26 Tape Testing Belongings 45:12 Laundry and Air Purifiers 46:37 Filters MERV and Ozone 50:30 Ventilation Fires Humidity 53:02 Change the Air Mission 57:01 HVAC Lungs of Home 01:01:20 Clinician Takeaways Wrap 01:03:21 Where to Find More Michael Rubino is one of the country's leading experts on mold remediation and indoor air quality. He's the founder of HomeCleanse, Chairman of the Change the Air Foundation, and he is also a council-certified Mold Remediator by IICRC and ACAC and a contributing member, sponsor, and speaker for the Indoor Air Quality Association. He is also the host of the Never Been Sicker podcast. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.
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  How to Eat for Peak Athletic Performance | Dr. Philip Goglia | RWP #18 31.07.2026 30min

  Dr. Philip Goglia explains to Dr. Ben Weitz how to improve athletic performance through nutrition. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a positive review on Itunes, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast]   Podcast Details Dr. Goglia explained that using the correct macronutrient food pattern that fits each person's metabolism is crucial. This can be determined via a questionnaire and by looking at a lipid profile.  If you are efficient at burning fats and carbohydrates and you consume a vegan diet, it will not work very well. Some people are efficient at burning fats and proteins, some are efficient at burning carbs, and some are efficient at both. Dr. Goglia will often utilize a pretraining cocktail with athletes that includes D-Ribose, L-Glutamine, Taurine, Cinnamon, Calcium and Magnesium, and blackstrap mollases. We'll even add citrulline mallate to it. He mentions that when his athletes have an athletic event in the morning, he will have the athletes eat a "mash" in the evening that includes shredded wheat, apple sauce, almond butter and jam.  They'll wake up with lots of energy.  He may also have the athlete consume this "mash" several hours before an athletic event, such as a basketball game or an athletic event. Dr. Philip Goglia can be reached through his website and for nutrition appointments:  http://www.pfcnutrition.com/
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  Helping Dysregulated Kids with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge: Rational Wellness Podcast 472 28.07.2026 55min

  Helping Dysregulated Kids with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge Rational Wellness Podcast 472 Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, a licensed mental health expert, founder of The Global Institute of Children's Mental Health, host of The Dysregulated Kid Podcast, and author of the bestselling book, The Dysregulated Kid. Her website is DysregulatedKid.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.  
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  The Science of Breathwork with Dr. Sachin Patel: Rational Wellness Podcast 471 22.07.2026 1h 7min

  The Science of Breathwork with Dr. Sachin Patel | Rational Wellness Podcast Dr. Ben Weitz introduces the Rational Wellness Podcast and interviews Dr. Sachin Patel, a chiropractor and functional medicine practitioner known for breathwork, about how breathing influences health. Patel explains how tongue posture and nasal breathing affect facial structure, airway size, posture, circulation, lymph flow, and nervous system regulation, and discusses CO2 tolerance, the Bohr effect, and how hyperventilation can reduce oxygen delivery. He outlines common mistakes such as treating breathwork as a single daily session instead of frequent check-ins, and emphasizes nose breathing—especially during sleep—citing high rates of mouth breathing and recommending options like micropore tape or Myotape. They cover breathing "gears" for exercise, parasympathetic-focused patterns (including 4-7-8 and longer exhales), breath holds, digestion and vagal tone, sleep apnea considerations, and resources including Patel's sites and book. 00:00 Show Intro 00:59 Meet Dr Sachin Patel 01:59 Why Breathwork Matters 05:32 Tongue Posture Airway 09:47 Diaphragm Heart Lymph 13:25 CO2 Tolerance Bohr Effect 19:07 Daily Breath Habits 22:00 Mouth Taping Sleep 25:06 Nasal Breathing Benefits 29:19 Athletes Three Breathing Gears 33:22 Breathing Metabolism Fat Loss 35:07 Question About 478 35:17 Exhale For Sleep 36:14 Breath And Trauma 40:21 Somatic Breathwork 41:05 Why Mouth Breathing 42:46 Breath And Digestion 48:08 Breath Holds Benefits 50:11 Breathing For Longevity 51:23 Clinicians Start Here 53:32 Sleep Apnea Alternatives 57:31 Final Takeaways 01:01:21 Diaphragm And Rhythm 01:03:48 Heart And Blood Pressure 01:04:49 Where To Learn More 01:06:58 Podcast Wrap Up Dr. Sachin Patel is a doctor of chiropractic, a Functional Medicine practitioner and success coach, an international speaker, and author.  He is perhaps most well known for his expertise on the science of breathwork and he is also a very successful business coach for Functional Medicine practitioners. His websites are TheLivingProofInstitute.com and BreathworkwithSachin.com Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.
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  The Science of Peptides with Dr. Chris Shade: Rational Wellness Podcast 470 14.07.2026 44min

  Dr. Chris Shade on Peptides, Liposomal Delivery, and Supporting GLP-1 Therapy Dr. Ben Weitz introduces the Rational Wellness Podcast and interviews Dr. Chris Shade, founder and CEO of QuickSilver Scientific, about peptides and oral liposomal delivery. Shade defines peptides as short amino-acid chains with signaling roles and explains how high-quality, small-particle, injectable-grade phosphatidylcholine liposomes enable intraoral absorption of water-soluble compounds like glutathione and certain peptides. They discuss BPC-157 for gut lining and broad tissue repair; KPV for inflammatory modulation (including Crohn's flares) via NF-kappa B and cytokine control; copper GHK for extracellular matrix/skin and connective-tissue support (including Ehlers-Danlos); and TB-500 for more angiogenic, muscle-oriented repair, often stacked with BPC and GHK ("Wolverine Stack"), with cycling and empty-stomach dosing. Shade also covers Epitalon and Thymulin for sleep, telomerase/telomeres, and immune balance, and outlines protocols to make GLP-1 drugs safer using bitters, binders, Lipotone, GLP-1 Amplifier, and nutritional/mineral support, while noting GI, bile-flow, and muscle-loss concerns. 00:00 Show Intro 00:59 Guest And Disclaimer 03:02 Peptides Explained 05:01 Liposomal Absorption 10:28 BPC 157 And KPV 14:58 Cancer Growth Concerns 19:00 Copper GHK Repair 22:24 TB 500 Wolverine Stack 23:54 Cycling And Dosing 24:42 Natural GLP Support 27:47 GLP Drug Risks 30:29 Epitalon And Thymulin 36:05 GLP Safety Protocol 38:06 Quinton Minerals Explained 39:55 Wrap Up And Resources   Dr. Christopher Shade is the founder and CEO of Quicksilver Scientific, which has revolutionized the nutritional supplement industry with their innovative nanoparticles and liposomal delivery system, their heavy metal testing, and their detoxification protocols that have become the industry standard for many for eliminating heavy metals and other toxins.  But this liposomal delivery system is effective for increasing absorption of nutrients, hormones and now peptides.  And if you want to order from QuickSilver Scientific, you can use the promo code WEITZ10 for 10% off your first order at quicksilverscientific.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.  
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  New Ways of Understanding and Treating SIBO with Dr. Allison Siebecker | Rational Wellness Podcast 469 08.07.2026 1h 21min

  New Research and Clinical Updates on SIBO: Methane, Hydrogen Sulfide, Elemental Diet, Herbs, Probiotics, and Testing with Dr. Allison Siebecker Dr. Ben Weitz interviews Dr. Allison Siebecker on major updates in understanding and treating SIBO/IMO, drawing from new DDW conference findings. Highlights include a methane-targeting enzyme inhibitor drug (CS06) that rapidly lowers methane without acting as an antibiotic; a delayed-release NAC plus rifaximin formulation that improves outcomes and may allow lower rifaximin dosing; and a new elemental diet formulation (MBiota) reported to reach up to 100% eradication in one study and improve IBS symptoms. They discuss a new herbal study on GI Ally (allicin, neem, pomegranate) using FoodMarble for frequent gas tracking, plus emerging FoodMarble research (low FODMAP adherence, menstrual-cycle effects on methane). Additional topics include a probiotic/prebiotic review suggesting higher success rates, Iberogast's reported prebiotic/anti-inflammatory effects, breath-test validation via endoscopic gas sampling, interpretation nuances for constipation and methane thresholds, GLP-1–associated SIBO risk and testing challenges, and links among SIBO, histamine intolerance, mold illness, and motility strategies. 00:00 Show Intro and Mission 00:59 Meet Dr Allison Siebecker 02:42 Methane Drug Breakthrough 06:49 Rifaximin Plus NAC Strategy 10:55 Elemental Diet Updates 16:35 Herbal Antibiotic GI Ally 19:44 FoodMarble Breath Testing 24:02 Bloating vs Distention 26:17 Low FODMAP Insights 29:20 Probiotics and Prebiotics 39:19 Adjuncts Bile and HCl 42:13 Next Natural Treatments 42:26 MSM Reality Check 44:37 Butyrate and Iberogast 47:53 Where to Buy Iberogast 49:08 Breath Test Controversy 52:29 Three Hour Testing 57:38 Methane Cutoffs Update 59:19 Antibiotics and Microbiome 01:01:36 Food Poisoning Antibody Cure 01:04:03 Histamine MCAS and Mold 01:08:43 Motility Devices and Vagus 01:11:41 GLP1s and SIBO Risk Dr. Allison Siebecker is a Naturopathic Doctor and Acupuncturist who specializes in the treatment of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth and she teaches advanced gastroenterology at the National University of Natural Medicine. She has the most incredible resource of research articles and information about SIBO, siboinfo.com. Dr. Siebecker has been participating in the SIBO SOS program, which is this incredible resource of courses and information about SIBO. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.  
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  Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome with Dr Felice Gersh | Rational Wellness Podcast 468 30.06.2026 1h 10min

  View the Show Notes For This Episode PCOS Renamed PMOS: Root Causes, Hormones, Metabolism, Labs, and Integrative Treatment with Dr. Felice Gersh Dr. Ben Weitz introduces an interview with OB-GYN and integrative physician Dr. Felice Gersh on PCOS, newly renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) per a May 12, 2026 Lancet announcement, meant to shift focus from "cysts" to hormonal and metabolic dysfunction. Gersh argues ovaries remain central, describing impaired aromatization leading to low estradiol, high LH-driven testosterone, and downstream effects including insulin resistance, inflammation, leaky gut, altered microbiome, sympathetic activation, elevated cortisol/DHEAS, obesity, mood disorders, sleep apnea, and autoimmune risk. They discuss legacy and practical issues with renaming, updated diagnostic criteria adding anti-Müllerian hormone in adults, and PMOS as a diagnosis of exclusion. Recommended evaluation includes total testosterone, DHEAS, SHBG, thyroid panel with antibodies, lipids including apoB, hsCRP, nutrients, ANA, prolactin, and select rule-outs (17-OHP, Cushing's, tumors). Treatment emphasizes lifestyle, plant-focused diet, time-restricted eating, exercise, supplements (myo-inositol, NAC, quercetin, melatonin, mitochondrial support), cautious pharmaceuticals (metformin/berberine, spironolactone), and cyclic bioidentical estradiol/progesterone; low-dose dexamethasone is noted for select adrenal-driven cases. 01:02 PCOS Renamed PMOS 04:51 Hormone Pathway Explained 09:04 Systemic Effects Cascade 13:15 Prevalence And Risks 17:29 Name Change Debate 18:28 Follicles And AMH 22:54 Inflammation And Immunity 26:17 Origins And Modern Triggers 31:40 Why Rebranding Falls Short 35:05 PCOS PMOS Searchability 35:48 Updated Diagnostic Criteria 37:52 Teen vs Adult Criteria 39:01 Key Lab Workup 44:07 High DHEAS Red Flags 45:00 Diagnosis of Exclusion 47:39 Lifestyle Treatment Plan 49:16 Diet and Fasting Strategies 53:45 Meds and Herbal Options 54:43 Mitochondria and Supplements 57:54 Inositol Ratio Debate 01:00:47 Hormones and Antiandrogens 01:04:03 Adrenal DHEAS Suppression Dr. Felice Gersh is a board certified obstetrician and gynecologist and she is also fellowship-trained in Integrative Medicine. Dr. Gersh is the Director of the Integrative Medical Group of Irvine, where she sees patients. She also lectures for A4M and various other conferences and she writes on various topics relevant to women, including on PCOS now PMOS. She has written 3 books, the first of which is called PCOS SOS and the second is PCOS Fertility Fast Track. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.  
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  Preventative Cardiology and the New Guidelines with Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj | Rational Wellness Podcast 467 23.06.2026 1h 28min

  New AHA/ACC Lipid Guidelines, Cholesterol Myths & Root-Cause Cardiology | Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj   Dr. Ben Weitz introduces the Rational Wellness Podcast and interviews integrative/interventional cardiologist Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj about the new AHA/ACC lipid guidelines and the evolving science of cholesterol, inflammation, and cardiovascular risk. Bhojraj explains why conventional cardiology's LDL-centric, statin-heavy approach can miss key drivers of atherosclerosis, drawing from years treating repeat heart attacks. He reviews how plaques form through endothelial/glycocalyx injury, oxidized and small dense LDL, and immune activation leading to rupture and clotting. They discuss comprehensive lipid and cardiometabolic testing (ApoB, Lp(a), oxidized LDL, insulin, A1c, CRP, MPO, Lp-PLA2, homocysteine, uric acid, TMAO), insurance barriers, and a HEART framework (Hormones, Energy, Autonomic nervous system, Rest/Repair, Triggers). They cover statin benefits/risks, alternative drugs, diet approaches, supplements, and women's heart disease risks. 00:00 Show Intro And Mission 01:01 Why Lipid Guidelines Matter 02:09 Meet Dr Sanjay Bhojraj 02:49 From Stents To Root Causes 07:01 Rethinking LDL And Statins 10:19 How Plaques And Heart Attacks Happen 19:01 Why Advanced Lipids Aren't Standard 21:37 Cash Pay Vs Insurance Labs 23:42 Key Cardiometabolic Markers 26:34 ApoB And Lp Little A 29:16 TMAO Dysbiosis Debate 31:51 Uric Acid Homocysteine And CRP 33:23 Inflammation And CRP 35:06 Beyond Basic Lipids 35:45 HDL Function Matters 38:04 HDL Treatment Limits 38:54 Sponsor Apollo Wearable 40:27 Iron Ferritin Hormones 43:04 HEART Risk Framework 43:46 MPO And Vascular Markers 46:12 Statins Benefits Risks 50:31 Personalized Lipid Therapy 58:36 Diet For Heart Health 01:01:23 Portfolio Diet Basics 01:02:09 Plant Forward Middle Ground 01:03:07 Saturated Fat And LDL 01:04:46 Vegan Keto Diet Culture 01:06:24 Niacin Pros And Limits 01:08:24 Berberine And Fish Oil 01:10:52 Omega Ratios Membranes 01:11:56 Red Yeast Garlic Glycocalyx 01:15:31 Sterols Bergamot CoQ10 01:17:45 Women Heart Disease Clues 01:20:48 Mammograms And Vascular Calcium 01:21:36 How To Work With Him   Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj is an Integrative Cardiologist who is also certified in Functional Medicine by the Institute of Functional Medicine. He practices in Mission Viejo, California and his website is SanjayBhojraj.us/home.   Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.
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  Fusing Ayreveda with Functional Medicine with Dr. Shivani Gupta: Rational Wellness Podcast 466 16.06.2026 49min

  View the Show Notes For This Episode Fusing Ayreveda with Functional Medicine with Dr. Shivani Gupta: Rational Wellness Podcast 466 Ayurveda Meets Functional Medicine with Dr. Shivani Gupta: Turmeric, Doshas, Digestion, and Inflammation Dr. Ben Weitz introduces the Rational Wellness Podcast and interviews Ayurvedic practitioner and Fusionary Formulas founder Dr. Shivani Gupta about integrating Ayurveda with modern functional medicine.  Dr. Gupta describes growing up between U.S. antibiotic-heavy care and Indian spice-based remedies, then adopting Ayurveda's preventive lifestyle focused on circadian rhythms, gut "agni" (digestive fire), self-care rituals, and detox. She explains doshas (vata, pitta, kapha) as elemental body types that guide diet and lifestyle, and emphasizes inflammation as a root cause of chronic disease and "inflammaging," highlighting sleep—especially the 10 p.m.–2 a.m. window—as foundational for reducing inflammation. The discussion covers turmeric vs. curcumin, absorption with fat and black pepper, her formulations including synergistic herbs like boswellia, plus Ayurvedic approaches to diabetes and gut support with Triphala, cumin, hing/asafetida, and other spices. Gupta shares resources for her book, podcast, and supplements.   00:59 Meet Dr Shivani Gupta 02:13 Two Worlds of Healing 05:34 Discovering Ayurveda 06:17 Ayurveda Core Pillars 08:38 Turmeric vs Curcumin Debate 12:01 Building Better Turmeric 15:04 Synergy Formula for Inflammation 18:05 Doshas Explained 23:48 Dosha Based Eating 25:02 Why Inflammation Matters 26:12 Inflammaging Not Aging 27:40 Ownership Over Health 28:58 Ayurveda Detox Story 32:42 Perimenopause Inflammation Reset 35:57 Sleep Tools That Work 39:09 Ayurveda For Diabetes 40:50 Gut Healing Herbs 42:46 Spices For Brain Health 44:49 Lifestyle Before Supplements 45:43 Agni Digestive Fire Future 47:17 Where To Find Shivani 47:58 Podcast Wrap Up   Dr. Shivani Gupta is an Ayurvedic practitioner, speaker, and educator Her website is ShivaniGupta.com and you can find her book, The Inflammation Code, her podcast The Inflammation Code, and her supplements can be found at FusionaryFormulas.com and if you use the affiliate code rationalwellness you will get 15% off.   Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.  
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  The Science of Longevity with Dr. Chris Renna | Rational Wellness Podcast 465 09.06.2026 1h 12min

  View the Show Notes For This Episode The Science of Longevity with Dr. Chris Renna | Rational Wellness Podcast 465 Longevity Medicine Deep Dive with Dr. Chris Renna: Lifestyle Foundations, Stem Cells, Regenokine & Rapamycin Dr. Ben Weitz welcomes longevity physician Dr. Chris Renna of Lifespan Medicine to discuss evidence-informed longevity and joint regeneration strategies. Renna argues that 90% of aging outcomes still come from diet, exercise (including resistance training), sleep, and psychological perspective, with supplements and hormones as important supports. He explains why stem cells are often overhyped, why many donor cells die quickly, and describes Muse cells as a type that can survive longer, noting Florida's approval of umbilical cord cells for osteoarthritis and Lifespan's plans to offer Muse cells. Renna outlines aging as incomplete daily repair beginning around age 30 and reviews Regenokine (autologous serum rich in anti-inflammatory factors/exosomes) as a top-performing joint injection without cartilage regrowth. He covers mitochondrial support, NAD precursors, urolithin A, peptides, and discusses low-dose intermittent rapamycin plus fisetin to reduce senescent cells, ending with a message of gratitude and presence. 00:00 Show Intro  00:59 Meet Dr Chris Renna 02:17 Origins of Functional Medicine 03:42 Longevity Today and Tomorrow 05:49 Stem Cells Overhype 09:59 Why People Go Abroad 13:28 How Stem Cells Really Work 15:55 Muse Cells Explained 19:59 Aging Starts at 30 24:05 Joint Injection Breakthroughs 30:55 Regenokine and Exosomes 37:39 Diet and Food Quality 40:06 Clean Eating Basics 40:30 Hydration And Daily Movement 41:41 Sleep Skills And Wind Down  43:31 Stress Perspective Reset 45:49 Core Supplements Stack  47:23 Mitochondria Boosters 49:20 Peptides Hype And Risks 52:43 FDA Shifts And Hormones 57:21 Rapamycin Senescence Plan  01:03:01 Longevity Vision And Wrap Up  Dr. Chris Renna is a physician and the founder of Lifespan Medicine, a practice focused on proactive, personalized approaches to health optimization and longevity. With over 30 years of clinical experience, Dr. Renna has been a pioneer in integrative and anti-aging medicine, emphasizing the interconnected roles of the immune, endocrine, and nervous systems in maintaining long-term health. His website is www.lifespanmedicine.com Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.
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  Using Precision Medicine to Reverse Alzheimer's Disease with Dr. Heather Sandison: Rational Wellness podcast 464 04.06.2026 52min

  View the Show Notes For This Episode Using Precision Medicine to Reverse Alzheimer's Disease with Dr. Heather Sandison | Rational Wellness Podcast 464 Dr. Ben Weitz interviews Dr. Heather Sandison about a precision, multimodal approach to Alzheimer's and cognitive decline that challenges the amyloid-only model. Sandison cites a 2026 Cochrane review finding anti-amyloid antibody therapies remove plaque but don't meaningfully improve cognition and carry risks like brain bleeding and swelling, arguing cognitive decline is driven by multiple modifiable factors. She reviews lifestyle-intervention research (Bredesen/Toups 2022, her 2023 study, Ornish 2024, and the Alzheimer's Association POINTER trial) showing cognitive improvements, discusses key drivers such as toxins (mycotoxins, metals, chemicals), infections, metabolic flexibility/ketosis, sleep, stress, and social connection, and outlines evaluation tools including MoCA, CNS Vital Signs, MRI volumetrics with arterial spin labeling, and blood biomarkers like p-tau217, Aβ 42/40, and NfL, plus interpreting nutrients via homocysteine. 00:00 Show Intro  00:59 Alzheimers Rethink 01:34 Guest Background  02:48 Trial Clarification  03:39 Limits Of Amyloid Drugs  05:29 Houseplant Brain Analogy  07:10 Lifestyle Trials Evidence 09:41 Research Funding Reality  11:08 Preventable Dementia Risks  12:44 Synapses And Social Ties 15:13 Drivers Beyond Amyloid 17:27 Toxins As Key Factor 18:52 Why Toxins Get Ignored  20:42 Metabolic Flexibility Diet  23:33 Ketosis For Cognition 24:57 Exogenous Ketones Guide  26:57 MCT And Coconut Oil 27:10 Coconut Oil Ketones  28:10 Apollo Wearable Ad  29:42 Cognitive Testing Tools 31:17 Advanced Brain Imaging  33:56 Blood Biomarkers Explained  37:39 Nutrients And Homocysteine  40:29 Vitamin D And Calcium  41:53 Treatment Priorities  43:47 Sleep Apnea First  45:53 Hormones And Peptides  48:48 Wrap Up And Resources  49:53 Podcast Outro Dr. Heather Sandison is the founder of Solcere Health Clinic in San Diego, California and Marama, a pioneering residential care facility focused on personalized, root-cause approaches to dementia.  She is also the primary investigator and author of a peer-reviewed study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease demonstrating improvements in cognition using a personalized lifestyle intervention, and the author of the New York Times best selling book Reversing Alzheimer's.   Her website is DrHeatherSandison.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.
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  Correcting Chronic Gut Issues with Dr. Kate Davis: Rational Wellness Podcast 463 27.05.2026 38min

  Dr. Kate Davis on Parasites, "Drainage," and Functional Strategies for Chronic Gut Symptoms   Dr. Ben Weitz introduces the Rational Wellness Podcast and interviews Dr. Kate Davis, a chiropractor turned functional medicine practitioner specializing in gut health. Davis recounts developing severe constipation and bloating at 24, receiving limited GI options, getting relief from visceral/myofascial work, then later worsening symptoms after stress with brain fog and joint swelling. A functional medicine friend used a hair follicle test (Cell Wellbeing) that suggested parasites; Davis followed an individualized protocol (including CellCore products, herbs, binders, Mimosa pudica seed, and TUDCA) and passed numerous parasites with symptom resolution. In practice she treats constipation, bloating, and loose stools by prioritizing "drainage" (bowel movements, liver/gallbladder/lymph function), assessing via hair scans, symptoms, stool/toxin tests, and bloodwork, and using diet, fermented foods, lifestyle, vagus/vestibular exercises, and breathwork; she discusses binders, mold, leaky gut, and insulin resistance targets, and shares contact info and an Instagram consult offer. 00:00 Show Intro 01:03 Meet Dr Kate Davis 01:33 Her Gut Health Journey 04:21 Parasites And Testing 06:30 Detox Protocol Basics 07:44 Practice Focus And Cases 09:06 Testing Leaky Gut 12:22 Parasite Treatment Strategy 13:58 Drainage And Gallbladder 16:18 Apollo Wearable Sponsor 17:51 4R Framework And Detox 21:04 Diet Probiotics Lifestyle 24:24 Gut Brain Vagus Nerve 28:46 Underrated And Overrated 32:04 Breathwork And Wrap Up 34:52 Podcast Outro   Dr. Kate Davis is a Doctor of Chiropractic and she also has a BS in Microbiology & Cell Science and also in Psychology.  She is in private practice in San Diego, California specializing in gut health and she also has a podcast.  Her website is DrKateDavis.com Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.  
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  Terrific Tocotrienols with Dr. Barrie Tan | Rational Wellness Podcast 462 21.05.2026 1h 1min

  Dr. Barrie Tan on Tocotrienols: Annatto Vitamin E, Lipid Antioxidant Protection, and Clinical Uses   Dr. Ben Weitz hosts Dr. Barrie Tan to discuss tocotrienols, lesser-known vitamin E family members (eight total: four tocopherols and four tocotrienols) that differ from common alpha-tocopherol-only supplements. Tan describes discovering tocotrienols in annatto in South America, noting annatto is uniquely tocopherol-free and rich in delta and gamma tocotrienols. He argues alpha-tocopherol is only clearly tied to bringing a fetus to full term and that excess alpha-tocopherol can antagonize tocotrienol absorption and clinical results. Tan emphasizes tocotrienols as superior lipid antioxidants that protect cell-membrane phospholipids and help stabilize omega-3 oils, and reviews studies and proposed benefits across fatty liver disease, metabolic syndrome/diabetes, dyslipidemia, inflammation markers, bone density in post-menopausal women and obesity, plaque-related endpoints, and selected cancers, plus discussion of radiation/antioxidant concerns and dosing ranges used in trials. 00:00 Show Intro and Mission 00:59 Meet Dr Barrie Tan 03:12 Annatto Discovery Story 08:03 Tocotrienols vs Tocopherols 11:20 Lipid Antioxidant Explained 16:16 Omega 3 Protection Strategy 20:34 Alpha Tocopherol Antagonism 24:26 Clinical Wins and Conditions 25:53 Obesity Study Results 30:33 Cancer Research and Ferroptosis 31:40 Delta Gamma Standouts 32:10 Iron Overload Ferroptosis Link 33:57 Apollo Wearable Sponsor 35:27 Antioxidants During Cancer Therapy 38:05 Radiation Countermeasure Evidence 43:31 Cancer Dosage Guidance 45:35 Heart Metabolic Benefits 49:35 Statins CoQ10 GG Explained 54:28 Black Seed Oil Combo 55:47 Books Vitamin K Wrap Up 58:10 Podcast Closing Credits   Dr. Barrie Tan has a PhD in chemistry and he's spent his life dedicated to researching vitamin E, among other nutritional compounds. Dr. Tan was chief science officer for Designs For health from 2018 to 2025. He's currently senior advisor for Everwell health and he is credited with discovering tocotrienols in palm, rice, and annatto, with annatto being the most efficient source.    Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.
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  The Fluoride Debate: Risks, Toxicity & Public Health with Dr. Paul Connett: RWP Episode 015 17.05.2026 54min

  The Fluoride Debate: Risks, Toxicity & Public Health with Dr. Paul Connett: RWP Episode 015 Dr. Ben Weitz interviews Dr. Paul Connett, a former chemistry and toxicology professor, on the possible dangers of fluoride toxicity.  To begin with, there is no need in the human body for flouride and there is no disease associated with a lack of fluoride.  Second, biochemists have known for a long time that flouride is very toxic and at high dosages it can kill you. Fluoride can interfere with enzymes, hydrogen bonds, and it combines with metal ions like calcium and magnesium, preventing them from the useful functions they have in the body. And these effects occur at low levels. And then there are the health effects of flouride, including dental flourosis, which is a discoloration of the enamel of the teeth, and this occurs in over 50% of children in the US.  And then we have potential damage to the brain, bones, thyroid, and the rest of the endocrine system, esp. in children. Over 50 studies document that levels of flouride that can easily occur in our children between water fluoridation, fluoride in toothpaste and mouthwash, and other sources of flouride, leads to lowering IQ by approximately 5 points! What an irrational way to deliver a potentially toxic drug to our population, given that there is no way to control the dosage. And may be giving a medication to people without their consent!   Dr. Connett has written many papers and several books, including his most recent, The Zero Waste Solution  https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-zero-waste-solution-paul-connett-phd/1115235807   and  The Case Against Flouride https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-case-against-fluoride-paul-connett/1021577574?ean=9781603582872     Here is Dr. Connett's website:  http://www.americanhealthstudies.org/index.html    While he is retired, Dr. Connett is available to speak at conferences.
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  Life Changing Results for Parkinson's Patients with Dr. Greg Eckel: Rational Wellness Podcast 461 13.05.2026 1h 5min

  Parkinson's Disease, Prions, and Root-Cause Brain Regeneration with Dr. Greg Eckel Dr. Ben Weitz introduces the Rational Wellness Podcast and interviews Dr. Greg Eckel about Parkinson's disease, brain regeneration, and misfolded proteins (prions) such as alpha-synuclein. Eckel shares that his focus on neurodegeneration began after his wife died from Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, motivating him to develop the Eckel Protocol and found Be Vital. He explains prions as misfolded proteins that propagate misfolding, discusses debates about whether alpha-synuclein may be protective, and argues Parkinson's reflects upstream systemic issues beyond dopamine loss. The conversation covers diagnostics (SYN-1 skin biopsy vs DaTscan), environmental toxins (TCE, paraquat, heavy metals), chelation approaches (provoked urine with DMSA), microbiome testing, and dietary guidance favoring Mediterranean/Zone patterns over keto. Eckel describes regenerative "brain camp" therapies including VSEL intranasal procedures, laser activation, exosomes, and adjunct modalities, and reviews supplements and IV therapies while emphasizing individualized testing and root-cause care. Dr. Greg Eckel has degrees in both naturopathic medicine and Chinese medicine. After a deeply personal journey that reshaped his understanding of chronic illness, Dr. Greg Eckel has developed a comprehensive approach aimed not just at managing symptoms, but at restoring function and supporting the brain's capacity to heal.   He has developed a brain regenerative program and a nasal spray that specifically targets neuroinflammation in the brain.  He's also published a book, "Shake It Off: An Integrative Approach to Parkinson's Solutions." Dr. Eckel can be reached through his websites at brainregen.com, Bvital.com and on Instagram at @drgreckel. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.
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  Reversing Alzheimer's Disease is Science with Dr. Dale Bredesen | Rational Wellness Podcast 460 07.05.2026 1h 9min

  View the Show Notes For This Episode Precision Medicine and Functional Approaches to Alzheimer's: Dr. Dale Bredesen on Personalized Treatment, Trial Results, and Key Drivers Dr. Ben Weitz introduces the Rational Wellness Podcast and interviews neurologist Dr. Dale Bredesen about a precision medicine approach to Alzheimer's, arguing cognitive decline reflects multiple interacting drivers rather than a single disease. Bredesen explains why a randomized controlled trial was needed to convince mainstream medicine, describes the ethical challenges of a declining control group, and reports statistically significant improvements in memory, executive function, processing speed, and neurocognitive index, including benefits for APOE4 carriers and preliminary improvement in APOE4/4 patients. He outlines key contributors— inflammation, toxicity, energetics, plus neurotransmitters, trophic support (including BHRT), and stress—along with common factors like metabolic dysfunction, mycotoxins, sleep apnea, infections, and heavy metals. The discussion covers early detection with blood biomarkers, individualized treatment variability by site training, diet (Ketoflex 12/3), stress-reduction tools, targeted supplements, and applications to other neurodegenerative syndromes. 01:03 Alzheimer's Precision Medicine 02:29 Why an RCT Matters 04:18 Ethics and Pushback 06:57 APOE4 and Site Results 09:40 Network Model Big Drivers 12:40 Training Makes the Difference 13:44 Trial Baselines and Outcomes 16:34 Personalized vs One Size 18:50 Top Root Causes to Address 21:56 Early Screening Blood Tests 25:56 Amyloid Tau as Defense 29:20 Sponsor Break Apollo Wearable 30:54 Personalized Infection Treatment 32:30 Hormones and Brain Support 34:49 Progesterone for Men Too 35:54 Beyond Alzheimer's Parkinson's 36:18 Detox Reverses Corticobasal 37:49 Posterior Cortical Atrophy Turnaround 39:33 Network Failure and Evolution 41:57 Prions as Immune Defense 44:10 Stress Reset Strategies 46:00 Targeted Supplements and Genetics 51:37 Curcumin and Anti Amyloid Caution 54:28 Ketoflex Diet and Metabolic Flexibility 01:00:31 ApoE4 Nuance and Future Therapies 01:05:06 Closing Thanks and Podcast Outro Dale Bredesen, MD, is an internationally recognized neurologist with specialty expertise in the mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases. He is the senior director of Precision Brain Health at Pacific Neuroscience Institute® and the Chief Scientific Officer at Apollo Health. Dr. Bredesen has written a number of books, including the NY Times best-seller The End of Alzheimer's, The End of Alzheimer's Program and The First Survivors of Alzheimer's. The website for Apollo Health is ApolloHealthCo.com. Guided by his philosophy and belief that Alzheimer's disease it is not just preventable, but reversible, Dr. Bredesen's innovative research has helped explain the physical mechanism behind the erosion of memory seen in Alzheimer's disease. His decades of clinical study and neurological research have opened the door to new approaches of treatment leading to the ReCODE Protocol™. Also known as the Bredesen Protocol, this methodology has emerged as a viable attempt to prevent, arrest, and reverse symptoms of cognitive decline associated with conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, dementias, and mild cognitive impairment. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.  
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  Extend Your Healthspan through Cellular Optimization with Dr. Will Haas: Rational Wellness Podcast 459 29.04.2026 1h 1min

  Extend Your Healthspan through Cellular Optimization with Dr. Will Haas: Rational Wellness Podcast 459 Longevity and Healthspan: Cellular Optimization, Toxins, Testing, and Peptide Therapies with Dr. Will Haas Dr. Ben Weitz introduces the Rational Wellness Podcast and interviews Dr. Will Haas, founder of VYVE Wellness, about longevity as extending healthspan and maintaining function rather than simply living longer. They discuss preventable lifestyle risk factors behind chronic disease, major blind spots in conventional medicine (limited insurance-driven labs and reference-range thinking), and the value of deeper functional testing, including advanced cardiometabolic markers, toxins (heavy metals and mycotoxins), and gut health. Haas describes urine testing (Real Time Labs, Vibrant America), detox strategies, and therapeutic plasma exchange as a more aggressive option. He highlights body composition and heart rate variability as key assessments and reviews core lab categories (metabolic, inflammation, hormones, micronutrients, detoxification). They cover biological aging methylation tests, underused labs like fasting insulin and oxidized LDL, personalized diet interventions, peptide therapies (growth hormone secretagogues, tesamorelin, mitochondrial peptides), NAD strategies, limited use of senolytics, and the importance of hormone optimization and emerging omics such as metabolomics. 00:00 Show Intro 01:00 Meet Dr Will Haas 02:00 Longevity Defined 03:25 Lifestyle Risk Factors 05:16 Conventional Blind Spots 08:16 Advanced Cardio Markers 10:38 Toxins And Aging 13:17 Testing For Toxins 14:31 Therapeutic Plasma Exchange 17:55 Patient Workup Basics 19:43 HRV And Lab Strategy 24:10 Biological Age Testing 24:45 Sponsor Apollo Wearable 26:14 Underused Key Labs 28:10 Interventions Foundations 28:47 Clean Eating Defined 29:16 Gut Bloating and SIBO 29:59 Personalized Diet Strategy 30:51 Peptides and FDA Debate 32:41 Growth Hormone Controversy 34:23 Why Peptides Feel Safer 37:49 Choosing GH Peptides 40:09 GLP-1 Muscle Loss Fixes 42:30 Mitochondria and Energy 45:01 NAD Precursors and Sirtuins 47:37 Brain Health and Hormones 51:54 Longevity Myths and Methylene Blue 53:23 Future of Omics Testing 55:42 Final Takeaways and Contact   Dr. Will Haas, MD, MBA is redefining what it means to age well. He is the Founder and CEO of VYVE Wellness in Charlotte, NC, where he helps high-achieving professionals reclaim energy, focus, and vitality through cellular optimization. Dr. Haas can be reached through his website VYVEWellness.com Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.  
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  Sleep Apnea: Causes, Home Testing & Natural Solutions with Dr. Joel Gould: Rational Wellness Episode 017 29.04.2026 1h 6min

  Dr. Joel Gould speaks to Dr. Ben Weitz about sleep apnea, deuterium, and vitamin D.   [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a positive review on Itunes or Spotify, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast]   Podcast Details I asked Dr. Gould how a dentist became an expert at sleep apnea?  He found out he had sleep apnea and also discovered that patients did not want to go to a sleep lab to find out if they had it. He discovered that there were home methods of testing for sleep apnea, including using a pulse oximeter for two nights.  He also discovered that the reason he had sleep apnea was because he had a vitamin D deficiency. This means that sleep apnea is both reversible and preventable. Dr. Gould also said that since he looks into patients mouths and shines a light down their throat, he's in a perfect position to discover the early signs of sleep apnea. Dr. Gould described that if you have trouble breathing while you sleep, then you will probably be more comfortable sleeping sitting up in a chair. When he suspects a patient may have sleep apnea, he will send them home with a pulse oximeter to use for two nights that will record how much oxygen is in their blood and if it drops by 4 points or more when sleeping, it indicates sleep apnea. Dr. Gould also discussed deuterium, what it is, and how much is in the environment.  Deuterium is also known as a stable hydrogen isotope or heavy hydrogen, since while most hydrogen atoms have a proton and an electron, deuterium has a proton, an electron and a neutron.  Thus, deuterium atoms are twice as heavy as other hydrogen atoms.  Deuterium messes up your metabolism and can't function like regular hydrogen.  More deuterium atoms will mess up the mitochondrial production of energy.  If deuterium is incorporated into your genes, this creates genetic defects.  Deuterium is the cause of aging, thus, deuterium is the rate limiting step of our life!  Deuterium is also the cause of obesity and the reason why vegetarian or ketogenic diets work, because they reduce deuterium levels. Dr. Joel Gould   http://www.modernamericandentistry.com/ Edit "Sleep Apnea: Causes, Home Testing & Natural Solutions with Dr. Joel Gould: Rational Wellness Episode 017" Dr Ben Weitz Dr. Ben Weitz, DC, CCSP, CSCS is a Santa Monica–based chiropractor frequently rated as "best chiropractor" and functional medicine/nutrition specialist with over 37 years of experience helping patients reduce pain, improve mobility, and improve overall health through non-invasive, evidence-based care. He specializes in identifying and addressing the root causes of conditions such as back and neck pain, arthritis, poor posture, and metabolic dysfunction—using a combination of chiropractic care, corrective exercise, and therapeutic lifestyle changes. He also offers Functional Medicine consultations, detailed lab testing, interpretation, and recommendations and coaching to reach your health goals. Dr. Weitz is the author of "The Back Relief Book" and host of the Rational Wellness Podcast, where he shares practical, science-based strategies for long-term health, performance, and disease prevention.
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  How to Change Habits with Amy Behimer: Rational Wellness Podcast 458 21.04.2026 1h 2min

  How to Change Habits with Amy Behimer: Rational Wellness Podcast 458 Dr. Ben Weitz introduces the Rational Wellness Podcast and interviews Dr. Amy Behimer a pharmacist turned board-certified health and wellness coach who helps people with autoimmune disease implement sustainable lifestyle changes through a structured, science-backed approach to "habit architecture." Behimer explains why behavior change is difficult, emphasizing that it is a learnable skill and that motivation is optional; she breaks motivation into belief, desire, and commitment. She outlines six research-backed reasons goals fail (including forgetting, goals being too big or not desired, lack of strategies that feel good, and no place to troubleshoot) and describes tactics such as "trust in the tiny," planning, tracking, reminders, support squads, environmental design, and focusing on one to three "now" habits using a tracker. She discusses mindset, compassion over guilt, household-level change, and offers a quiz, membership, and referral options for practitioners. Dr. Amy Behimer is a pharmacist turned board certified health and wellness coach, and she specializes in helping people with autoimmune disease implement sustainable lifestyle changes. After her own diagnosis, she recognized that even the most precise. [00:02:00] Functional medicine recommendations fail without a repeatable system for behavior change. She now teaches a structured science-backed approach to habit architecture that helps patients move from knowing what to do to consistently doing it. Amy is the host of the Autoimmune Health Secrets Podcast. She's the founder of Club Habit Hub, where she works with high information patients who want better outcomes without burnout. Amy, thank you so much for joining us. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.  
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  Rethinking Mental Health: A Functional Medicine Approach with Dr. Hyla Cass: Rational Wellness Podcast Episode 014 21.04.2026 32min

  Rethinking Mental Health: A Functional Medicine Approach with Dr. Hyla Cass: Rational Wellness Podcast Episode 014 [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a positive review on Itunes, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast] Podcast Details Dr. Cass said it was natural for her to look at natural causes of psychiatric disorders, including diet, lifestyle, and genetics, rather than the pharmaceutical approach.  She feels that it is shameful that even very young children are placed on medications, when we don't even know what effects these meds might have on developing brains. I asked Dr. Cass why it appears as though we have a rising epidemic of depression, bipolar disorder, and ADHD among young people today. Dr. Cass said that this is due to poor diet--too many refined carbs and sugar, a lack of vegetables, not getting a solid protein--and not running around outside and exercising and they spend most of their time inside playing video games and on their computers. Dr. Cass mentioned the problems with breakfast cereals and milk in the morning, which spike their blood sugar and so many kids have food sensitivities to dairy. And the milk has bovine growth hormone. And the wheat is genetically modified and high in gluten. We were meant to be eating healthy, natural foods with lots of fiber to support the microbiome. And so many things damage the microbiome, including the antibiotics in the food supply and the chlorine and flouride in the water supply. To help patients we have to feed the brain and the gut with natural, healthy food. Kids need to eat more veggies. We were meant to eat and live a certain way and to interact with our tribe a certain way. And that is gone today, esp. in the cities. We have to recreate that type of lifestyle, starting with the diet.  And parents need to have more meaningful interactions with their children and not just be on their phones. Dr. Cass likes to look at the root causes of psychiatric conditions, such as blood sugar imbalances, stress and adrenal health, nutritional deficiencies, thyroid, hormonal balance, MTHFR and genetic factors that may affect our ability to make neurotransmitters. We discussed the recent Institute of Functional Medicine conference on brain health and how Dr. Bredesen has demonstrated reversal of Alzheimer's disease with a Functional Medicine approach that he refers to as a systems approach.  Dr. Bredesen started with rats and found that it is not just removing plaquing in the brain, because if you remove too much plaque, they get worse. Then he went to studying humans and found that if you look at and treat heavy metals, chemical toxicity, hormone imbalances, etc. You can't just use these medications, like Namenda and Aricept, which do nothing to reverse the course of the disorder. Here is Dr. Hyla Cass's website where you can get her free ebook Reclaim Your Brain:  https://cassmd.com/