Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Brain Body Reset

Brain fog. Exhaustion. Dizziness. Food reactions. Symptoms that flare without an obvious reason. If you’re living with long COVID or mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), you may have collected diagnoses and tried multiple treatments without understanding why you still feel so sick.

In this episode of Brain Body Reset, Dr. Spencer Zimmerman sits down with long COVID researcher and immunology educator Dr. Novack PhD to explore what may be keeping that cycle going, and the research investigating ways to interrupt it.

Dr. Novack shares findings from his clinical trial examining a no-added-sugar diet and fasting in people with long COVID. We discuss autophagy, your cells’ internal cleanup and recycling process, and why researchers are interested in its potential role in persistent symptoms.

We also connect the dots between mast cells, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and the nervous system to help you better understand symptoms that are too often treated in isolation.

You’ll hear about:

• Why mast cells do much more than release histamine, and why that matters when antihistamines only help so much.
• How mast cell activity and autonomic dysfunction may influence each other in MCAS and POTS.
• The possible role of persistent virus in long COVID, and the limitations of current testing.
• How damaged mitochondria may contribute to fatigue and post-exertional malaise.
• Mast cell stabilizers, including cromolyn and ketotifen, and emerging treatment research.
• Why nutrition, sleep, and individual treatment responses deserve a place in the conversation.

If you’ve been told to manage each symptom separately, this conversation offers a more connected way to understand what may be happening and questions to bring to your healthcare team.

This episode discusses emerging research and proposed mechanisms, not established cures. Fasting is not appropriate for everyone, and changes to fasting or medication should be discussed with your treating clinician.

Have you been diagnosed with hEDS and have a variety of neurological symptoms and findings?

Maybe you struggle with: chronic fatigue, brain fog, headaches/migraines, dizziness, light/noise sensitivity and more.

Your imaging suggest chiari malformation or cranio-cervical instability.

A recent research article is proposing for a new subtype to hEDS, known as Neuro-EDS. This is meant to better capture what is happening.

To learn more about our approach to EDS: https://peakbrainandbody.com/conditions/eds/

Most conversations about Ehlers-Danlos syndrome focus on joint hypermobility, ligament laxity, pain, and the musculoskeletal system. But is that enough to explain the brain fog, fatigue, dizziness, headaches, sensory overload, anxiety, and autonomic symptoms many people with EDS experience?

In this episode, Dr. Spencer Zimmerman NP, DC, DACNB reviews a 2025 research paper exploring the neurological and neuropsychological side of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

You’ll learn about:

• The 13 recognized EDS subtypes and why hypermobile EDS receives the most attention
• Brain structural differences associated with EDS
• Chiari malformation and craniocervical instability
• Small fiber neuropathy and autonomic dysfunction
• The overlap between EDS, POTS, and reduced cerebral blood flow
• How impaired proprioception may affect balance, coordination, joint stability, and injury risk
• The roles of interoception, sensory processing, and neurological efficiency
• Why anxiety, panic disorders, depression, ADHD, and autism are discussed in EDS research
• How the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, insula, anterior cingulate cortex, cerebellum, and brainstem may contribute to symptoms
• Why normal structural imaging does not necessarily rule out impaired neurological function

The presence of a structural finding such as Chiari malformation or craniocervical instability does not automatically mean it explains every symptom. At the same time, treating EDS as purely a joint and connective-tissue condition may leave major pieces of the problem unaddressed.

This episode explains why people with EDS may need an integrated approach that considers the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, autonomic regulation, mental health, blood flow, immune function, and the way the brain processes information from the body.

Educational only and not personal medical advice.

https://peakbrainandbody.com/conditions/eds/

POTS is not one condition with one cause and treating the elevated heart rate alone often fails to address why someone remains sick.

In this episode, Dr. Spencer Zimmerman breaks down a major POTS review published in August 2026 and translates the findings into language patients and families can understand. He explains the different processes that may contribute to POTS, including small fiber and autonomic neuropathy, low blood volume, excessive sympathetic activation, and impaired blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain.

You’ll also learn why normal oxygen saturation and blood pressure readings do not necessarily mean the brain is receiving adequate blood flow, which conditions most commonly overlap with POTS, and why migraines and irritable bowel syndrome may deserve more attention than they currently receive.

The episode also examines standard POTS treatments—including exercise, fluids, salt, compression garments, dietary changes, and medications—along with medications that may worsen symptoms. Finally, Dr. Zimmerman discusses what the current research may be missing, including vestibular and eye-movement dysfunction, cervical integration, overlooked lab findings, hormonal changes, and why neurological rehabilitation may need to come before traditional cardiovascular conditioning for some patients.

To learn more: https://peakbrainandbody.com/conditions/pots-dysautonomia/

If you become dizzy, nauseous, weak, foggy, or feel like you might pass out when you stand, it is easy for everything to get labeled as POTS. But POTS is only one form of orthostatic intolerance.

In this episode, Dr. Spencer Zimmerman breaks down the differences between POTS, orthostatic hypotension, and neurocardiogenic syncope. These conditions can cause very similar symptoms, but the changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and neurological regulation do not follow the same pattern.

You’ll learn:

• What should normally happen to your circulation when you stand
• How POTS, orthostatic hypotension, and neurocardiogenic syncope are diagnosed
• Why the timing of heart-rate and blood-pressure changes matters
• Which of these conditions can occur together—and which cannot
• Why cardiac testing is still important, even when it comes back normal
• How dehydration, anemia, medications, neurological conditions, and other factors can contribute
• Why salt, fluids, compression, exercise, and medications help some people but not everyone
• Why receiving the correct diagnosis is only the beginning of understanding what you need to improve

If you have been diagnosed with dysautonomia but still do not understand why you are struggling or why the standard recommendations have only helped partially; this episode will help you see what may still be missing.

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Speak with your healthcare provider before changing medications or treatment.

To learn more: https://peakbrainandbody.com/conditions/pots-dysautonomia/

It is slightly too long for a podcast episode description. The content is good, but I’d tighten it so someone can understand the episode quickly without feeling like they have already consumed it.

If your heart races every time you stand—but your cardiac testing keeps coming back normal—the heart may not be the real problem.

POTS is diagnosed by changes in heart rate, but research suggests that the heart-rate increase may be a response to something happening earlier: an excessive drop in cerebral blood flow when you become upright.

In this episode, Dr. Spencer Zimmerman explains why this matters, how the brain and autonomic nervous system normally regulate blood flow, and how impaired regulation may contribute to dizziness, brain fog, fatigue, shortness of breath, digestive problems, temperature intolerance, and other symptoms.

You’ll also learn why salt, electrolytes, compression, and medications may help without fully explaining—or addressing—why you remain stuck.

If you have POTS or dysautonomia and feel like no one has connected all your symptoms, this episode will help the bigger picture make more sense.

If you've been told there's nothing more to do for your long COVID, or that the research just isn't there yet, this episode pushes back on both claims. 

Dr. Zimmerman NP, DC, DACNB breaks down one of the most comprehensive 2025 research papers on the neurological effects of long COVID, walking through what's actually driving symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, dizziness, mood changes, and post-exertional malaise. 

He covers the imaging and lab findings showing real, measurable brain changes, the overlapping mechanisms long COVID shares with POTS, MCAS, EDS, ME/CFS, and post-concussion syndrome, and why treating these as separate, isolated diagnoses keeps people stuck. 

You'll learn why a single test or single treatment was never going to be the answer, what a layered, multimodal approach actually looks like, and why most people aren't failing because they're "defective" — they're failing because the approach they were given wasn't built for the complexity of what's really going on. This is research translated into something you can actually use, and a roadmap for the conversation to have with any provider willing to dig in with you.

Dizziness is one of the most common symptoms people struggle with… and one of the most misunderstood.

If you’ve been told everything looks “normal,” yet you still feel off, this episode explains why.

Instead of chasing a single cause, we break down a more accurate framework — looking at how dizziness can come from metabolic issues, inflammation, the immune system, vascular changes, the neck, and ultimately how the brain processes it all. 

You’ll learn:

•  Why “normal labs” don’t always mean normal function 
•  Why treatments work for some people but not others 
•  The overlooked role of the brain, vision, and vestibular system 
•  And why there’s no one-size-fits-all fix 

If you’re tired of guessing and want to understand what’s actually driving your symptoms, this episode will give you a completely different lens to look through.

https://peakbrainandbody.com

Are your migraines or headaches still running your life—despite normal scans, multiple medications, and endless “try this” advice?

In this research-backed Q&A, Dr. Spencer Zimmerman breaks down why migraines and chronic headaches are far more complex than most people are told. Instead of focusing on labels, he walks through the four core arenas that must be evaluated to truly reduce frequency and intensity:

• Immune system & inflammation (CGRP, histamine, gut health, autoimmune links)
• Vascular factors & autonomic regulation
• Mitochondrial energy and metabolic efficiency
• Brain connectivity (cerebellum, vestibular system, trigeminal pathways)

You’ll learn:

• Why normal MRIs don’t mean “nothing is wrong”
• How medications like CGRP inhibitors work—and why they don’t solve the root cause
• The hidden role of magnesium, riboflavin, omega-3s, and ketones
• Why gut health and brain health are inseparable
• How caffeine and common OTC medications can perpetuate rebound headaches
• Why no one is looking at brain connectivity—and why that matters

If you’ve been told to “just manage it,” this episode will challenge that narrative and give you a systems-based framework for understanding what’s actually driving your migraines.

Because the goal isn’t to block pain.
 The goal is to prevent it.

If you’re ready to understand your headaches differently—and explore what’s actually possible—this episode is for you.

https://peakbrainandbody.com/

Still dizzy, foggy, exhausted—or dealing with racing heart symptoms—despite “normal” tests? 

In this Q&A episode, Dr. Zimmerman explains why concussions and POTS are often misunderstood, why MRI/CT scans are usually normal in concussion, and what most evaluations miss (objective balance + eye-movement testing). He also breaks down POTS as a nervous system/autonomic issue, why patients get bounced between cardiology and neurology, and how immune/metabolic factors like histamine patterns and low ferritin can worsen symptoms.

https://peakbrainandbody.com/concussion-symptoms-and-treatment/

A concussion story most people never hear. Dr. Zimmerman and his wife, Sara, share the raw, real experience of navigating yet another concussion—from subtle early symptoms to the emotional toll it takes on daily life.

When symptoms don’t make sense—but your body knows something is wrong. Fatigue, mood swings, dizziness, nausea, memory lapses, and loss of motivation all appeared quickly, even after what seemed like a minor hit.

Why standard care often leaves people stuck. Learn how normal scans, generic treatments, and symptom-chasing can miss the true neurological drivers of post-concussion symptoms.

What actually made the difference this time. From vestibular and eye movement findings to targeted neurological therapies, hear how a personalized approach helped symptoms improve faster than expected.

A powerful reminder for anyone who’s been told “this is just how it is.” This episode challenges the belief that chronic concussion symptoms are permanent—and explains why the right care matters more than ever.

• What if a little-known brain fat could play a major role in fatigue, brain fog, and neurodegeneration? Dr. Zimmerman introduces plasmalogens and why they’ve become a key focus in complex neurological cases.
• Plasmalogens quietly protect brain, nerve, and heart cells—until levels drop. Learn how aging, inflammation, and chronic conditions may accelerate their loss and what that means for symptoms and disease progression.
• Emerging research links low plasmalogens to conditions like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, MS, and neuropathy. This episode explores what the science suggests—and why waiting years for “perfect data” isn’t an option for those suffering now.
• Why supplementation isn’t as simple as “take more.” Dr. Zimmerman breaks down absorption challenges, precursor strategies, and why dosing must be individualized.
• Plasmalogens aren’t a magic bullet—but when stacked with the right neurological and immune support, they may change the trajectory. Discover how they fit into a true brain-body, systems-based approach.

This episode is a must-listen if you’ve tried “everything” and are still searching for answers that actually move the needle.

Myth #1: “It’s just anxiety.” Dr. Z breaks down why this misunderstanding leads to misdiagnosis, gaslighting, and years of unnecessary suffering.

Why drinking more water and pounding salt isn’t a real solution—and what’s actually driving your dizziness, fatigue, and tachycardia.

The shocking truth: Most POTS symptoms are neurological, not cardiovascular—and traditional testing completely misses it.

Why medications help some symptoms but never fix the root problem (and why you crash as soon as you stop them).

The biggest unlock: Your visual system, vestibular system, hormones, blood sugar, and immune health may be the hidden drivers your providers never checked.

If you’re dizzy, exhausted, lightheaded, and constantly brushed off by traditional medicine, this episode will feel like someone is finally connecting the dots.

What you’ll learn:

• Why “normal” labs don’t mean anything is actually normal for POTS patients—and why most people are told everything looks fine when they clearly don’t feel fine.
• The big flaw in the traditional POTS approach: it manages symptoms but ignores the nervous system dysfunction driving them.
• **The hidden neurological issues no one checks—**like eye-tracking and vestibular reflexes—that keep 75–80% of POTS patients dizzy, anxious, and fatigued.
• How advanced testing at Peak Brain & Body uncovers what cardiology and neurology miss, leading to real, lasting improvement.
• Why POTS is never “one thing,” and why treating the whole system (hormones, immune function, infections, mold, anemia, etc.) finally moves the needle.

In this episode I take questions from the audience and review the research on a variety of topics.

The concussion we all missed: Using Mike Evans’ hit as a case study, Dr. Z shows why a “minor” concussion can be far more life-altering than a broken collarbone—and how symptoms get rationalized away.

Depression redefined: New findings on excitatory neurons and microglia link mood and inflammation—explaining why exercise, vitamin D, gut health, and targeted nutrition help some people more than meds alone.

Women’s brain health & hormones: How menopause accelerates brain atrophy in MS, which regions are hit (memory, attention, emotion), and why LC/MS hormone testing changes the conversation on safe HRT.

Parkinson’s is rising—here’s why: Environmental exposures (industrial degreasers, pesticides, head trauma, autoimmunity) drive risk—and the practical levers you can control now.

From POTS to “wear-and-tear” knees: Why POTS is a neuro-immune problem (not a single-cause diagnosis), how ultra-processed foods speed cartilage loss, and what emerging evidence says about Boswellia + celery seed for pain, function, and inflammation.

Chemo brain, demystified: How mitochondrial stress and systemic inflammation drive brain fog, memory lapses, and slowed thinking—and what helps.

Food as a therapeutic tool: A simplified, modified Mediterranean approach (gluten-free, low-sugar, organic) to lower inflammation and feed the brain.

Support during treatment: Why timing matters for intermittent fasting, what to avoid during radiation, and where melatonin and select botanicals may fit.

Cachexia vs. “just eat anything”: Calorie-dense, therapeutic smoothies as a smarter alternative to ultra-processed shakes when appetite is low.

Home detox made doable: High-impact swaps (fragrance plugins, dryer sheets, plastic foodware, bottled water, microwaving in plastic) to cut hormone disruptors.

Stronger bones on AIs/Tamoxifen: The right form of calcium plus D3, K2, collagen precursors—and bone-loading movement—to reduce osteoporosis risk.

Mindset & the “cancer train”: How to pause urgency, build a healing team, and use breathwork, meditation, acupuncture, and graded exercise to steady emotions.

HRT after breast cancer—handle with care: Why this decision must be personalized (oncology, BHRT specialist, Dutch testing, vascular screening, tight lab follow-up).

To learn more about our guest, visit: 

www.carollourie.com

Neuroplasticity—your brain’s ability to adapt—can work for or against you. In this episode, I explain what it really is, why most providers overlook it, and how to harness it for recovery. From concussion and POTS to migraines, brain fog, and mood issues, I cover how precise testing and targeted therapies can rewire the brain, restore energy, and improve resilience.

In this episode:

• Neuroplasticity, simplified: the brain’s ability to change—sometimes helpful, sometimes harmful—depending on how it’s directed.
• How to measure brain function: neurological exams, balance and eye-movement testing, cognitive testing, and QEEG go beyond standard scans.
• Why generic rehab fails: overdoing or under-dosing therapy stalls progress; success depends on the right dose at the right time.
• Conditions helped by plasticity:
  • Concussions/PCS—rest alone doesn’t heal, but targeted vestibular, visual, and autonomic rehab does.
  • POTS/Dysautonomia—rewiring balance and eye-movement systems improves symptoms.
  • Migraines—strengthening brain circuits raises resilience and reduces attacks.
  • Chronic fatigue, brain fog, mood issues—often tied to inefficient or inflamed brain pathways.
• Tools that drive change: vestibular & vision rehab, cognitive training, neurofeedback, TMS, exercise, nutrition, sleep, and stress control.
• Proof in practice: Sara’s recovery shows the brain can change—even after years of symptoms.

Takeaway

Most brains can change when assessed precisely and treated specifically. Neuroplasticity isn’t a buzzword—it’s the most underused path to healing.

To learn more visit https://peakbrainandbody.com/

In this in-depth episode, Dr. Zimmerman and Dr. Scire go beyond conventional thinking about childhood developmental disorders—unpacking how issues like dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities often stem from deeper, unresolved neurological and immunological imbalances that extend well into adulthood.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Developmental Disorders Are Often Misunderstood & Undiagnosed: Learning disabilities, not autism, are the most common childhood developmental issues—yet many kids never receive a proper neurological evaluation. Instead, they're often pushed into compensatory therapies without addressing the root cause in brain function.
• Brain Development Has a Blueprint: The brain develops in a predictable right-to-left hemispheric pattern, and interruptions to this process—often identified through retained primitive reflexes, oculomotor issues, and vestibular dysfunction—can result in cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges well into adulthood.
• Functional Neurology Offers a Different Lens: Unlike traditional models that separate neurological and psychiatric care, functional neurology integrates sensory-motor function, primitive reflex testing, and brain hemisphere imbalances to uncover why the brain is underperforming—and how to restore its potential.
• Neuroimmune Interactions Are a Game-Changer: Immune system dysregulation—often starting in the womb due to maternal inflammation—can alter brain development and trigger lifelong neuropsychiatric issues. Inflammatory immune responses can lead to mood disorders, cognitive delay, and even autoimmune issues without ever being properly linked to brain health.
• Treating the Root, Not the Label: Dr. Scire emphasizes that symptom-chasing—whether through meds, supplements, or labs—isn’t enough. Instead, a framework-based approach must consider neurological exam findings, metabolic markers like blood sugar or anemia, and prioritize which systems need regulation first—brain, immune, or both.

To learn more about Dr. Scire you may follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpeterscire/

In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Zimmerman uncovers the deep—and often ignored—connection between concussions and mental health struggles. Drawing from research, clinical insights, and real-world cases, he exposes why so many patients suffering from depression, anxiety, and ADHD may actually be battling the silent aftermath of an undiagnosed or improperly treated concussion.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Concussions Aren’t Just a Sports Injury:
  While sports get the spotlight, concussions from car accidents, slips, and falls are even more common—and frequently overlooked, especially in non-athletes.
• Mental Health Diagnoses Often Miss the Mark:
  Research shows concussions drastically increase the risk of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and even suicide—yet many patients are misdiagnosed and mistreated because providers aren’t screening for brain injury.
• Outdated Beliefs Are Failing Patients:
  Coaches, parents, and even medical providers often rely on childhood-era concussion myths—leading to dangerous underdiagnosis and poor care.
• Proper Evaluation Requires More Than a Cognitive Test:
  A thorough concussion evaluation must include balance testing, oculomotor testing (like eye tracking), and metabolic lab work—not just symptom checklists or paper-based cognitive exams.
• There Is No One-Size-Fits-All Treatment:
  The best outcomes come from stacked, personalized treatment plans that combine neurological rehab, metabolic support, and advanced testing—not relying on a single therapy like neurofeedback or hyperbaric oxygen.

Key Takeaways:

• Vestibular rehab isn’t just for dizziness. It can benefit people with migraines, POTS, chronic fatigue, neck pain, and even back pain—because your brain’s perception of balance affects your entire nervous system and body.
• “It’s not just ear crystals.” Many clinicians oversimplify vestibular issues as BPPV, but central (brain-based) vestibular dysfunctions are often the real culprit—and they require advanced evaluation.
• Traditional therapy often fails. Protocol-driven rehab may worsen symptoms in 10–20% of patients. Precision matters. Rehab must be personalized, not “one-size-fits-all.”
• Cutting-edge tech is revolutionizing diagnostics. Tools like video oculography (eye tracking), computerized balance posturography, and rotating chair assessments are enabling more accurate, faster, and safer neurological care.
• AI will change everything. Artificial intelligence is already being used to enhance clinical decision-making, track progress, and personalize care—offering faster answers and better outcomes than ever before.

To learn more about Dr. Garcia

https://www.instagram.com/freddysxg/
https://www.facebook.com/freddysxg
https://x.com/freddysxg

Is vascular dementia inevitable, or can you prevent it before it starts? In this solo episode, Dr. Zimmerman challenges conventional thinking about aging and cognitive decline. He lays out a powerful, proactive approach to preventing one of the most common—but overlooked—forms of dementia.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Vascular dementia is often preventable, but early action is crucial—changes can begin 10–20 years before symptoms appear.
• Silent warning signs like elevated blood sugar, insulin, homocysteine, and inflammation are red flags long before memory loss starts.
• Critical lab tests and imaging, including fasting insulin, hemoglobin A1C, coronary calcium scores, and MRI scans, are underutilized tools for early detection.
• Lifestyle factors like poor sleep, stress, ultra-processed foods, and lack of exercise compound your risk—but also offer the biggest opportunities for change.
• You have more control than you think. Empowerment, consistency, and the right data—not just genetics—are the foundation for long-term brain health.

In this episode, Dr. Zimmerman and Dr. Shay dive deep into how genetics intersect with diet, inflammation, and brain function—dispelling popular myths and reframing what it truly means to eat for your unique biology.

Key Takeaways:

• 🧬 Genetics are the foundation—but not the full picture: Your genes reveal propensities (not destinies) around carb tolerance, food sensitivities, inflammatory risk, and metabolism—but they must be paired with lifestyle and functional testing for meaningful change.
• 🍽️ Why one-size-fits-all diets fail: From keto to Mediterranean, the “best diet” depends on your genetic makeup, metabolic function, and even personal food reactions. Genetic testing helps tailor nutrition to your biology—so you stop guessing.
• 🧠 Functional testing + lifestyle coaching = results: Genetic data has long-term value, but it's not actionable without a strategy. Learn why integrating personalized coaching and functional labs (like gut or mitochondrial testing) helps cut through overwhelm and get real results.
• 🚨 Beware of ‘magic bullet’ health trends: Dr. Shay warns against oversimplified solutions—like methylation-only tests or internet-fueled biohacks—and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing gene categories like inflammation, vitamin D receptors, and detox pathways.

To Learn more about Dr. Shay

YouTube channel of interviews: https://www.youtube.com/tenpointwellness
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/sam.shay.792/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsamshay/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-sam-shay-dc-ifmcp-922133128/
Stand-Up Comedy for being on the Spectrum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auxjQWEGFCQ&list=PLbFucTSBmVzhaqaVIyIhDwRKYeiA2ZlEs&index=13

In this bold and heartfelt episode, Dr. Z steps away from symptom talk to challenge a deeper issue that prevents people from healing — the emotional trap of familiarity. He pulls back the curtain on how many patients unknowingly sabotage their own recovery by staying in comfortable, familiar systems that don't deliver results. If you've been stuck for years and feel like you've "tried everything," this episode is your call to think differently and reclaim your health.

Key Takeaways:

• 🔁 Familiar ≠ Effective: Sticking with familiar treatments (insurance-based care, medications, standard specialists) may feel safe — but it often keeps people stuck.
• 🧠 Your Brain Is Wired for Safety, Not Progress: The amygdala (fear center) resists unfamiliar paths, even if they hold the key to healing.
• 💡 You Don’t Need to Understand It All: Just like you don’t know how your phone works, you can benefit from treatments you don’t fully understand — as long as they’re logically guided and results-driven.
• 🧾 Insurance Isn’t the Savior You Think It Is: Relying on insurance often leads to delayed or inadequate care — and massive hidden costs in lost time, energy, and life.
• 🛑 Don’t Confuse Effort with Progress: Bouncing between the same types of doctors or treatments might feel productive, but without real change, it’s just motion — not healing.

In this powerful episode, Dr. Spencer Zimmerman welcomes Dr. Michael Trayford, one of the leading experts in QEEG (quantitative EEG) and neurofeedback, to break down what brain mapping is, how it works, and where it's heading. Together, they unpack the strengths, limitations, and clinical applications of QEEG, from ADHD and brain injuries to long COVID and dementia. You’ll also hear how advanced providers are using tools like laser therapy, vibration platforms, and metabolic support—not just neurofeedback—to shift brain function in measurable ways. This episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever wondered, “Is brain mapping worth it?”

Key Takeaways:

• QEEG Explained: Understand what quantitative EEG (brain mapping) is, how it compares to traditional EEGs, and what brainwave patterns reveal about cognitive and emotional function.
• Beyond Neurofeedback: Discover how QEEG guides interventions like laser therapy, vibration platforms, and metabolic strategies—not just brain training alone.
• Red Flags & Misconceptions: Learn how poor-quality equipment and plug-and-play systems may lead people down the wrong path, and what to look for in a trustworthy brain map.
• When Neurofeedback Fails: If you’ve done 10+ sessions with little to no results, this episode helps you know when to pivot versus persevere.
• Hope Through Precision: QEEG opens the door to more personalized brain rehab—especially for patients with concussion, POTS, long COVID, ADHD, and more.

To learn more about Dr. Trayford visit: https://apexbraincenters.com/qeeg-brain-mapping-asheville-nc/

All Things Gut Health with Dr. Buddy Touchinsky

• How a Chiropractor Became the “Gut Guy”: Dr. Buddy shares how his focus shifted from treating pain to addressing root causes like gut health after reading Integrative Orthopedics by Alex Vasquez. This led to his deep dive into chronic illness and functional medicine.
• Understanding Leaky Gut and Dysbiosis: The episode breaks down intestinal permeability (aka “leaky gut”), what dysbiosis means, and how both can exist even when digestive symptoms are absent—showing up instead as fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, or skin issues.
• Top Contributors to Leaky Gut: They outline five key factors—chronic stress, poor diet, infections (bacteria, parasites, mold), chemical exposures (like glyphosate), and medications (NSAIDs, antibiotics, acid blockers)—and explain how each damages the gut lining.
• Gut-Brain Axis and LPS: The discussion covers how gut imbalances and bacterial byproducts like lipopolysaccharides (LPS) can fuel systemic inflammation and neurological symptoms, including depression, memory loss, and brain fog.
• What Testing Can and Can’t Tell You: Stool tests, bloodwork, and food sensitivity panels are covered with nuance—highlighting what’s worth the investment, what’s often overused, and why customized interpretation (not automated protocols) matters.

Waking up already dreading the day, struggling to think clearly, forgetting words mid-sentence—these are just a few of the frustrating realities so many people face after a concussion. If you’ve tried rest, medications, physical therapy, or chiropractic care but still feel mentally foggy, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken.

In this episode, Dr. Spencer Zimmerman—founder of Peak Brain and Body and known by many as “The Brain Guy”—dives into why traditional concussion treatments often fall short and what your brain may still need in order to truly heal. We’ll talk about the hidden factors behind lingering brain fog, the importance of advanced neurological testing, and how tools like nutrition, sleep optimization, cognitive exercises, and peptide therapy can support real recovery.

Whether you’re months—or even years—post-concussion, this episode offers hope, clarity, and practical steps to help you get your life back.

Key Takeaways:

• Functional neurology focuses on brain function rather than structural damage and provides solutions where traditional neurology falls short.
• Eye movements, balance testing, and cognitive assessments are essential in diagnosing neurological dysfunction.
• Neuroplasticity is at the core of functional neurology, allowing the brain to rewire and heal.
• A true functional neurology approach integrates rehabilitation, functional medicine, and lifestyle interventions.
• Not all functional neurology providers are equal—expertise, training, and diagnostic tools matter.

If you’ve been struggling with chronic fatigue, brain fog, dizziness, post-concussion symptoms, or other neurological issues, this episode is a must-listen to understand why functional neurology may be the missing piece in your recovery.

To check out the blog: https://peakbrainandbody.com/functional-neurology-tampa/

In this insightful episode, Dr. Spencer Zimmerman sits down with Dr. Lorraine Maita, an expert in integrative and anti-aging medicine, to discuss the profound impact of hormones on brain health. They dive deep into how hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are not just about sex and reproduction but play essential roles in cognitive function, mood regulation, memory, and overall neurological health.

Key Takeaways:
✅ Hormones Are Brain Regulators – Estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA function as neurosteroids, directly influencing mood, cognition, memory, and mental sharpness.
✅ Menopause & Brain Fog – Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone during perimenopause and menopause can lead to memory lapses, mood swings, anxiety, and depression.
✅ The Testosterone Factor – Women actually have more testosterone than estrogen, and low testosterone in both men and women is linked to anxiety, depression, and reduced confidence.
✅ Testing Matters – Many healthcare providers prescribe hormones without proper testing. Blood, saliva, and urine tests are necessary to accurately assess and adjust hormone levels.
✅ Bioidentical vs. Synthetic Hormones – Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), including estradiol patches and micronized progesterone, is safer and more effective than synthetic alternatives.
✅ Your Lifestyle Impacts Your Hormones – Diet, stress, exercise, and environmental toxins all play a role in hormone balance and brain health.

Dr. Maita also debunks common hormone myths, including the misconception that estrogen causes breast cancer and shares how proper hormone management can reduce risks of dementia, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease.

In this episode I dive into chronic fatigue syndrome and functional medicine from different angles.

1. CFS is a syndrome, not a disease, involving neurological, immune, and gut dysfunction, often leaving patients feeling dismissed.
2. Root causes include infections (Epstein-Barr, Lyme, mold), gut dysbiosis, and neuroinflammation, with immune weakness playing a key role.
3. Traditional medicine only manages symptoms with medications, failing to address the underlying issues, leaving many without lasting relief.
4. Functional medicine targets root causes, using personalized lab testing and treatments rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
5. Functional neurology is crucial for CFS recovery, assessing brain function and connectivity to ensure a more effective treatment plan.

You may read our entire blog post version of this episode: https://peakbrainandbody.com/functional-medicine-approach-to-chronic-fatigue-syndrome/

Genetic Blueprint for Sustainable Weight Loss with Dr. Phyllis

Key Takeaways:

• Genetics & Weight Loss Resistance
  Dr. Phyllis shares how genetic testing helped her lose 100 pounds and how understanding genetic variations can reveal why traditional diets fail for some people.
• 12 Genetic Avatars & Personalized Strategies
  She explains her concept of “genetic avatars,” including cortisol carriers and dopamine drivers, and how tailoring diet, exercise, and lifestyle based on genetics leads to sustainable weight loss.
• Beyond "Calories In, Calories Out"
  Genetic factors like reduced thermogenesis, inflammation, and fat storage efficiency play a major role in weight struggles, debunking the idea that willpower alone determines success.
• Brain-Body Connection & Emotional Eating
  Stress, gut health, and neurotransmitters like dopamine significantly impact cravings, metabolism, and weight regulation, making mindset shifts essential for long-term results.
• Fasting, Hormones & Long-Term Success
  Dr. Phyllis discusses the pros and cons of fasting, the impact of stress hormones on weight loss, and how sustainable changes—not quick fixes—are key to achieving and maintaining results.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Band-Aid Diagnosis or Root Cause Issue?

1. Understanding Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) – Dr. Zimmerman breaks down the diagnostic criteria for CFS, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis, including persistent fatigue, post-exertional malaise, and unrefreshing sleep.
2. Overlapping Symptoms & Misdiagnosis Risks – Many conditions share symptoms with CFS, such as autoimmune disorders, thyroid dysfunction, and neurological issues. Without proper testing, a CFS diagnosis may be a "band-aid" rather than addressing the true cause.
3. Key Systems to Evaluate – Dr. Z emphasizes the importance of examining three major systems: the immune system (COVID, mold exposure, autoimmunity), the nervous system (concussions, strokes), and energy production (blood sugar, thyroid, anemia, hormones, sleep). The nervous system should still be evaluated even if you haven't had a concussion or a stroke.
4. The Link Between Long COVID & CFS – Many post-COVID symptoms closely resemble CFS, suggesting viral triggers may play a significant role. Identifying immune system dysfunction is key to proper treatment.
5. A Whole-Body Approach to Recovery – Instead of symptom management, Dr. Z advocates for a root-cause approach, integrating functional neurology and medicine to optimize brain-body health and restore energy levels.

🔹 Listen now to learn how to uncover the real reason behind your chronic fatigue and take steps toward lasting recovery!

Today, I’m joined by Dr. Ken Sharlin, a board-certified neurologist, to discuss the truth about Alzheimer's disease—what causes it, why early detection is critical, and how functional medicine is changing the game. We dive into:

✅ The real difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia
✅ Why conventional neurology often fails patients
✅ The latest diagnostic tools & treatments—including blood-based biomarkers
✅ The power of lifestyle medicine to prevent & slow cognitive decline
✅ The future of regenerative medicine & stem cell therapy for brain health

This episode is packed with cutting-edge research and practical strategies you won’t hear from your regular doctor. Tune in now! 🎧

In this episode I do a deep dive on POTS:

• What is POTS? Learn about Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, how it impacts the nervous system, and why it's on the rise—especially post-COVID.
• Symptoms & Diagnosis: Discover the key criteria for diagnosing POTS, how it differs from other forms of dysautonomia, and common symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, brain fog, and gut issues.
• Root Causes & Triggers: Understand the connection between POTS and factors like autoimmune conditions, concussions, long COVID, gut health, mast cell activation, and hormonal imbalances.
• Why Conventional Treatments Fall Short: Find out why simply taking salt tablets, wearing compression stockings, or using beta-blockers may not be enough—and what a more comprehensive approach looks like.
• A Functional Approach to POTS: Dr. Zimmerman breaks down a neurological and immune-based framework for evaluating and treating POTS, focusing on brain function, balance, gut health, and inflammation.

To learn more about POTS we have a blogpost on our clinic website: https://peakbrainandbody.com/dysautonomia-and-pots-why-you-have-dizziness-headaches-and-chronic-fatigue/

This is part 2 of a two part series on fish oils and their role in concussion recovery.

I'm joined by Dr. Michael Lewis who is an expert in the field of concussions and fish oils. 

In this episode we discuss we discuss more in depth about what you should know about fish oils.

In this episode we introduce you to your host, Spencer Zimmerman. He's known by his patients as Dr. Z.

His wife interviews him to help you learn more about who he is, what drives him, and some odds and ends.

This is part 1 of a two part series on fish oils and their role in concussion recovery.

I'm joined by Dr. Michael Lewis who is an expert in the field of concussions and fish oils. 

In this episode we discuss what you should know about concussions and tackle many of the myths individuals fall for.

We briefly talk about fish oils in this episode as we lay the ground work for part 2 which will be released as episode 6. 

Millions of concussions happen each and every year. Unfortunately many never get diagnosed. Even those that do are often diagnosed only based off symptoms, which isn't the best way to do it.

We will cover what you should be looking for in a concussion evaluation, reviewing myths, and understanding what happens in the brain with a concussion.

Are you struggling with dizziness and not sure what to do?

This is the episode for you. We dive into the complexities and dizziness in a way that you've never heard it before.

There are many different factors that contribute to dizziness and we walk through many of them. 

Check out our blog post on this: https://peakbrainandbody.com/what-causes-dizziness/

In this episode I talk with my wife, who suffered with the effects of a concussion for over 15 years.

Have you ever suffered a concussion in the past and brushed it off? Yet, you never quite felt right after that. 

The symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, brain fog, dizziness, and concentration linger long that enough that you just live with it. Because of this, you consider these common symptoms to you as normal.