Nutrition & Weight

Beyond Flavor: Understanding MSG and Its Impact on Health, Part 1
November 13, 2024
Unveiling the Hidden Dangers of MSG: An In-Depth Discussion with Drs. Catherine Reid and Barbara Price, co-authors of “Fat, Stressed and Sick: MSG Processed Food in America's Health Crisis.” The discussion focuses on the long-standing controversy surrounding monosodium glutamate (MSG) and its potential health effects, including the possible link to neurodegenerative disorders, mood disorders, metabolic issues, and more. The guests also delve into the history of MSG, methods of its production, and the scientific and health-based arguments against its use. Furthermore, they explore the addictive nature of processed foods that contain MSG and similar compounds, and provide insights on how to adopt a Reduced Excitatory Inflammatory Diet (REID) for better health. Throughout the episode, the conversation also touches upon public health implications, regulatory concerns, and ways to promote healthier eating habits, especially for children. Click HERE for part 2.

Beyond Flavor: Understanding MSG and Its Impact on Health, Part 2

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Katherine Reid, PhD, and Barbara Price, PhD, authors of "Fat, Stressed, and Sick: MSG, Processed Food, and America's Health Crisis." Click HERE for part 1.

Leyla Weighs In: Sweet Solutions–Preventing the Health Pitfalls of Sugar
November 8, 2024
The Health Implications of Sugar and Low-Carb Diets: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin highlights the health consequences of indulging in sugar and alcohol. She stresses the importance of re-evaluating one's diet, especially during the holiday season, to mitigate risks associated with overindulgence. The podcast delves into a University of Surrey study linking sweet cravings to increased risks of depression, diabetes, and heart conditions. Additionally, it discusses recent findings on how low-carb diets can improve beta cell function in people with type 2 diabetes, offering a potential path to better disease management and medication reduction. The episode aims to inform and guide listeners towards healthier food choices.

Leyla Weighs In: Harnessing the Power of Small Changes for Better Health
October 25, 2024
Nutritionist Leyla Muedin has indispensable advice on adopting five fundamental habits for a healthier future. These habits include eating nutrient-dense foods, staying active, ensuring quality sleep, managing stress, and staying hydrated. Additionally, she shares practical tips for creating an environment that supports these healthier choices. Strategies such as planning meals, laying out workout clothes, and setting up a distraction-free bedroom are discussed to help make these habits easier to implement and sustain. This episode encourages listeners to take proactive steps in designing their surroundings to facilitate better lifestyle choices.

Unpacking the Myths and Realities of GLP-1 Drugs with Dr. Swathi, Part 1
October 15, 2024
Integrative Pharmacist Dr. Swathi Varanasi Diaz details the impact and considerations of GLP-1 drugs, which are being lauded for their effectiveness in weight loss and obesity treatments. These drugs have seen widespread use, with statistics showing their intake by millions of Americans. However, the discussion also highlights the challenges associated with their use, including high costs, significant side effects, and a potential for weight rebound upon discontinuation. Dr. Diaz, a pharmacist with expertise in integrative medicine, provides insights into how these drugs work, their possible gastrointestinal and mental health side effects, and how they might be complemented with a proper lifestyle to enhance results. The conversation introduces Fortetropin as a natural product to possibly counteract muscle loss associated with GLP-1 drugs, and the natural myostatin inhibitor MYOS MD to also counteract weight loss related sarcopenia Throughout, the episode underscores the importance of a personalized approach to weight loss involving diet, exercise, and possible pharmaceutical interventions, while highlighting the necessity of caution and thorough consideration in adopting these treatments. Click HERE for part 2.

Unpacking the Myths and Realities of GLP-1 Drugs with Dr. Swathi, Part 2

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Swathi Varanasi-Diaz, Pharm.D., Integrative Pharmacist, about the hidden risks of popular GLP-1 drugs, including muscle loss and mental health side effects. Click HERE for part 1.

Leyla Weighs In: Natural Alternatives to Weight Loss Drugs
October 11, 2024
Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses the popular pharmaceutical semaglutides, including Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus. She explains their mechanisms of action, uses, and common side effects. Leyla also introduces Calocurb, a natural alternative made from hops, and explains how it can mimic the effects of semaglutides by stimulating the release of crucial digestive hormones. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet rich in fats and proteins for optimal health and weight management.

Navigating the Intersection of Nutrition and New Weight Loss Medications, Part 1
October 8, 2024
Dieting to optimize weight and metabolism with Kim Shapira, M.S., R.D., and author of "This Is What You're Really Hungry For: Six Simple Rules to Transform Your Relationship with Food to Become Your Healthiest Self." Kim explores the intersection of mindfulness, eating behaviors, and the use of modern weight loss medications, such as semaglutides and dual-action drugs. Kim Shapira, who holds degrees in kinesiology and human metabolism, shares insights into building healthier relationships with food, emphasizing the importance of maintaining muscle mass while on weight loss drugs, and avoiding weight rebound. They delve into the complexities of dieting beyond willpower, highlighting the emotional triggers associated with eating, the importance of mindfulness, and the six rules Shapira suggests for effective eating habits. The discussion also covers the potential downsides and societal impacts of weight loss medications, as well as practical strategies for achieving sustainable health outcomes. Click HERE for part 2.

Navigating the Intersection of Nutrition and New Weight Loss Medications, Part 2

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Kim Shapira, M.S., R.D., author of "This Is What You're Really Hungry For: Six Simple Rules to Transform Your Relationship with Food to Become Your Healthiest Self." Click HERE for part 1.

ENCORE: Q&A with Leyla, Part 2: Is salt making me fat?
October 3, 2024
Save our Supplements!; What is the lowdown on iodized salt? Do we really need it?; Is salt making me fat?; A recent chest CT scan shows that my thyroid gland is atrophic. What does this mean?; What are your thoughts on stem cell therapy? Click HERE for part 1.