Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Intelligent Medicine with Dr. Ronald Hoffman | The Best of High Tech Medicine and Alternative Modalities

• Ultra-processed foods' impact on postpartum depression/psychosis
• Which should my sister take, Jardiance or Dapagliflozen?  
• I had aortic valve repair. Can I safely take N101?
• I suffer with trigeminal neuralgia after recent extensive dental work. What do you advise?
• What would be the optimal total testosterone level for an 84 year old male?

• How can I find an integrative pediatrician in the NYC or Weehawken/Hoboken area?
• Can the xylitol in my nasal spray have an adverse impact on heart health?
• I chronically use Vaseline on my lips. Is this a concern?
• My 25-year-old daughter was diagnosed with lipedema stage one. Any advice?
• I had an Apo B test and am confused at the results. Could you elucidate?

Former pharma reporter for the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, investigative reporter Gardiner Harris, discusses his new book “No More Tears: The Dark Secrets of Johnson and Johnson.” It details the unethical practices and numerous scandals that have plagued Johnson & Johnson over the decades, including the asbestos contamination in baby powder, the misuse of the antipsychotic drug Risperdal, the dangerous outcomes of vaginal mesh implants, and the controversial development and deployment of their COVID-19 vaccine. Harris provides a comprehensive overview of the corporate malfeasance within the pharmaceutical giant, shedding light on the regulatory failures and systemic corruption that have allowed these issues to persist.

Dr. Hoffmabn continues his conversation with investigative reporter Gardiner Harris, author of “No More Tears: The Dark Secrets of Johnson and Johnson.” 

Renowned integrative medicine physician, board-certified internist, and researcher Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum discusses his new book, "Pain Relief in 4 Simple Steps," and the growing chronic pain epidemic (one in four U.S. adults; about 7% debilitating). Teitelbaum argues most pain is treatable by addressing root causes and describes four biochemical pain types—muscle pain from low energy, inflammatory pain, neuropathic pain, and brain pain (microglial activation)—alongside structural, biophysical, and mind-body contributors. They discuss risks of NSAIDs and Tylenol, diet’s role (processed foods, sugar, seed oils), and strategies such as an Energy Revitalization Drink Mix, SHINE protocol, curcumin with turmeric oils plus boswellia (Curamin), omega-3 support, magnesium, B12 issues with metformin/GLP drugs, lipoic acid for neuropathy and burning mouth syndrome, and migraine support with high-dose riboflavin and magnesium. He also cover CRPS treatments (including ketamine and bisphosphonates), low-dose naltrexone and PEA, compounded topical options, and pelvic pain/prostatitis approaches including quercetin and antibiotics like fosfomycin when appropriate.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with integrative medicine physician, board-certified internist, and researcher Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum about his new book, "Pain Relief in 4 Simple Steps."

New study attempts to resolve question over which has contributed more to our current obesity epidemic—diet or sedentary lifestyle? Pros/cons of CT scans vs. MRIs for investigating abdominal complaints; Fish oil rivals effectiveness of antibiotics for periodontal disease; The MIND diet vs. KetoFLEX Diet for fending off cognitive decline; Vitamin B3 helps relieve Raynaud’s symptoms; After American Heart Association green lights coffee, new study shows high consumption can accelerate bone loss; High-dose vitamin D protects memory in light sleepers.

Scientists reveal how much exercise you really need to protect your heart—and no way are you doing enough! Is that prostate biopsy really necessary? It’s true that statins can reduce heart risk even in 70+ individuals—but they don’t prolong life or fend off disability; Magnesium found to prevent age-related sarcopenia, probably by curbing inflammaging; Deep-brain stimulation with external magnets found to enhance brain function in mild cognitive impairment; Are concerns over Avapro blood pressure medication warranted?

Exercise, Recovery, Relaxation—and Muscle as the Key to Healthy Aging: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses science-backed wellness trends that pair exercise with effective recovery and deliberate relaxation to support performance, resilience, and healthy aging, noting benefits such as fewer overuse injuries, better sleep, steadier energy, and improved adherence. She highlights relaxation practices (breathwork, meditation, gentle yoga, outdoor time, massage, consistent sleep routines) and encourages making recovery part of daily life, including creating home or community “wellness spaces” like pools for gentle movement and stress reduction. She emphasizes sustainable habits supported by tools like wearables and heart-rate variability tracking. The episode then frames muscle as a “longevity secret weapon,” explaining its roles in metabolism, glucose storage, insulin sensitivity, inflammation control, and joint stability, citing the PURE study on grip strength and mortality, warning about sarcopenia, and recommending strength training, higher and well-distributed protein intake with age due to anabolic resistance, plus adequate sleep and recovery.

• Highlights from Dr. Hoffman's vacation.
• What can my friend take for burning mouth syndrome?
• I'm looking to build immunity. What are your thoughts on beta-glucans?
• I hike a lot and want to protect my knees. Would peptides like BPC-157 be of benefit?

• How should I take N101 lozenges?
• Where can I find Propax with NT Factor? I prefer capsule or pill form.
• Why is the Salad and Salmon diet not mentioned? It's the best of both worlds in a whole-foods eating plan.
• My doctor wants me to take a statin, but I'm reluctant because of sensitivities and reactions to drugs.
• I've been told to avoid red meat and instead take an iron supplement, but it's causing constipation
• How much magnesium should I take for my weight at 160 lbs?

Dr. Sharon Bergquist is an award-winning physician, innovative healthcare leader, and visionary researcher, renowned for spearheading a science-based approach to applying lifestyle as medicine. She is the author of "The Stress Paradox: Why You Need Stress to Live Longer, Healthier, and Happier." She discusses the misunderstood role of stress, emphasizing its potential benefits when managed and utilized correctly. Dr. Bergquist explains how stress can enhance cellular function, boost resilience, and improve overall health. She delves into topics such as the physiology of stress, the science of hormesis, and the benefits of controlled stressors including plant toxins, thermal exposure, fasting, exercise, and psychological challenges. The discussion underscores the importance of balancing stress and recovery to promote cellular repair and long-term well-being.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Sharon Bergquist, author of "The Stress Paradox: Why You Need Stress to Live Longer, Healthier, and Happier." 

The Long Shadow of Rickets: Vitamin D, Historical Insights, and Modern Implications. Dr. Chris Warren, a history professor at Brooklyn College delves into the origins and prevalence of rickets, a condition now largely unknown but once widespread. Dr. Warren explains the factors contributing to rickets, particularly Vitamin D deficiency, and shares insights from his book, "Starved for Light: The Long Shadow of Rickets and Vitamin D Deficiency." The discussion covers socioeconomic, industrial, and environmental aspects, along with the relevance of cod liver oil, sunlight exposure, and the evolution of Vitamin D synthesis. There are also reflections on modern implications of Vitamin D deficiency and racial differences in processing Vitamin D. The episode concludes with a look at how historical medical practices around rickets influenced today's medical norms and practices.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Chris Warren, author of "Starved for Light: The Long Shadow of Rickets and Vitamin D Deficiency."

Dr. Marty Makary out as FDA Commissioner—was he the victim of a BigPharma purge? Are “liquid biopsies” useful for predicting recurrences, as well as guiding therapy, for cancer? Nighttime smartphone by adolescents surges, eroding kids’ sleep needs; Persistent itch may require an “all of the above” approach to break its vicious cycle—could topical vitamin B12 provide an answer? Study critiques research methods that fast-tracked new Alzheimer’s drugs.

You won’t believe this new medical use for Classic Coca-Cola; The solution for menopausal sleep problems goes beyond mere hormone replacement; Paxlovid strikes out vs. Covid in new trials; Pesticide exposure may explain rising colorectal cancer rates in young people; Big Food touts faulty study that claims healthier food regulations will cost consumers; Higher aerobic fitness boosts size of the brain’s memory centers—as does memorizing London taxi routes. 

Food as Medicine: Why Medical Nutrition Therapy and Medically Tailored Meals Belong in Modern Healthcare: Registered dietitian nutritionist Leyla Muedin argues that food should be treated with the same rigor as medication through medical nutrition therapy (MNT) and “diet prescriptions,” integrating nutrition into treatment plans rather than leaving it as optional advice. She cites evidence that medically tailored meals (MTMs) can improve outcomes and reduce costs, including a Health Affairs simulation estimating $23.7B in first-year net savings nationwide and a Nature Medicine analysis of a Massachusetts Medicaid demonstration (2020–2023) showing MTM recipients had 31% fewer hospitalizations, 20% fewer emergency visits, and $3,433 lower total healthcare costs, offsetting 98% of program costs. She discusses food insecurity, expanding Medicaid coverage via Section 1115 waivers, EHR integration, and how MTMs support adherence for conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, depression, and IBS (including low FODMAP).

• The 23 & Me bankruptcy
• The promise of genetic testing in the future
• What are your thoughts on methylene blue? Any benefits? 

• How can I treat polycythemia caused by erythropoietin receptor mutation?
• I have chronic anemia—not iron deficiency. What can I do for my foggy head?
• What do you recommend for vestibular migraine?
• Any natural treatments for deep, restful sleep?
• SLIT - Sublingual Immunotherapy treatment

Understanding and Preserving Cognitive Health with Dr. Barbara Haskin: In this episode of the Intelligent Medicine podcast, host Dr. Ronald Hoffman discusses cognitive health with neuropsychologist Dr. Barbara Haskin, author of “How My Brain Works: A Guide to Understanding It Better and To Keeping It Healthy.” They explore the impact of aging and other factors on cognitive function, citing personal anecdotes and recent research. The conversation centers on the importance of mental well-being, diet, exercise, and sleep in maintaining brain health. Dr. Haskin highlights her professional experiences, including the evaluation and treatment of various cognitive issues through detailed testing and personalized care strategies. The episode concludes with a discussion on practical lifestyle measures to prevent and address cognitive decline.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Barbara Haskin, author of “How My Brain Works: A Guide to Understanding It Better and To Keeping It Healthy.” 

In this episode of the Intelligent Medicine Podcast, Dr. Ronald Hoffman interviews Dr. Sharad Paul, a New Zealand physician, on his book, "Biohacking Your Genes: 25 Laws for a Smarter, Healthier, and Longer Life." They discuss how genes serve as a blueprint but not a destiny, stressing the role of lifestyle and habits in managing genetic risks. Dr. Paul expands on the impact of diet, supplements, and exercise tailored to genetic makeup, citing his holistic approach versus extreme gene-editing biohacking. The conversation touches on vitamin D's role in health, the misconception about sun exposure, and the relationship between genetics and skin health. Nutrigenomics is explored, illustrating how genetic testing can influence dietary and lifestyle choices, while also covering genetic predispositions related to mood, sodium, and sugar sensitivity. The podcast concludes with actionable tips for optimizing skin health through diet and protective measures.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Sharad Paul, author of "Biohacking Your Genes: 25 Laws for a Smarter, Healthier, and Longer Life."

New-think on diet for ApoE4, a risk factor for Alzheimer’s—eat meat! Is a non-invasive blood sugar monitor on the drawing board for the next Apple Watch? True or false—does drinking carbonated water help weight loss? Eating while distracted puts on the pounds; Treating duodenitis; How much whey protein should you consume? Why some people fail to lose weight on GLP-1 drugs.

Don’t skip homocysteine when testing for dementia risk factors; Treating osteoporosis; New hope against pancreatic cancer; Eating right for Parkinson’s Disease; Olive oil helps stave off dementia—but only the right kind; A lifestyle hack that can cut Alzheimer’s risk by 38%; How to reduce high calprotectin on a stool test.

Supplements and Morning Coffee: Timing Iron, Zinc, Calcium, B Vitamins, and Vitamin D: Nutritionist Leyla Muedin explains that coffee (and tea) can interfere with nutrient absorption and digestion, so certain supplements shouldn’t be taken with morning coffee. Coffee’s tannins and polyphenols can significantly reduce non-heme iron absorption (decaf doesn’t prevent this), and similar binding issues may affect zinc; she recommends taking iron with water at least 1–2 hours away from coffee and pairing it with vitamin C. Because caffeine may increase urination, B vitamins (especially thiamine) may be lost more readily, so she suggests taking them with food but not with coffee. Vitamin D is best taken with a fat-containing meal (not washed down with coffee), and calcium supplements should be separated from coffee since caffeine can slightly increase calcium loss. She also notes interactions such as green tea reducing folate absorption, spinach oxalates limiting mineral absorption, phytates in bran/legumes reducing iron and zinc absorption, and calcium (milk or supplements) cutting iron absorption, emphasizing timing rather than eliminating these foods.

• An example of another bad 'scientific' study
• What do you think of the new at-home prostate test?
• My calcium score has increased over the years. Am I taking enough Vitamin K? Too much?

• A case study in high cholesterol
• How can I lower my Apolipoprotein B? My husband's A1c went up after taking a statin for 5 months. Help!
• Can you recommend a good foot cream?
• Using a heating pad for pain — a listener's success story
• How long of a break should I take from my supplement regimen?

Natalie Ochoa, president of Jigsaw Health, details widespread magnesium insufficiency and why it occurs (soil depletion, low plant intake/processed foods, stress-related loss, aging, and medication effects including diuretics and proton pump inhibitors). They discuss the poor reliability of standard serum magnesium testing, the limitations of RBC magnesium testing, and using symptoms such as cramps, twitches, constipation, fatigue, and sleep trouble as clues. Ochoa explains Jigsaw’s sustained-release magnesium malate (MagSRT) designed to reduce GI side effects and how to read labels for elemental magnesium, with typical intake around 500 mg/day. She reviews the 2018 placebo-controlled Scottsdale Magnesium Study (91 participants) showing increases in RBC and serum magnesium and reduced deficiency symptoms, and a Korean study linking higher magnesium intake to less sarcopenia and lower CRP. They also cover MagSoothe (magnesium glycinate) and an Oura Ring-based sleep trial reporting reduced perceived stress and improved sleep quality, plus mention Jigsaw’s potassium drink, electrolyte product, and cod liver oil.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Natalie Ochoa, president of Jigsaw Health.

Cardiologist and electrophysiologist Dr. Gregory Marcus, chair of the American Heart Association scientific statement writing group, reveals evidence on coffee/caffeine and cardiovascular health. He discusses how earlier assumptions that caffeine triggers arrhythmias are complicated by genetics, individual risk factors, and mostly observational research. Marcus reviews randomized and observational findings: the CRAVE trial showed no increase in premature atrial contractions but more premature ventricular contractions on coffee days; a trial in post-cardioversion patients found less atrial fibrillation with daily coffee. Observational data suggest lower risks of type 2 diabetes, heart attack, stroke, and AFib among coffee drinkers, while heart failure risk may be lower at low intake but higher around 4–5 drinks/day. He cautions against extrapolating benefits to energy drinks, discusses additives like sugar, touches on alcohol, cannabis, Mediterranean/DASH diets, pollution, and evolving AFib treatments, wearables, and pacing/ablation technologies.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with cardiologist and electrophysiologist Dr. Gregory Marcus, chair of the American Heart Association scientific statement writing group.

Most mayos, salad dressings and chips “made with 100% avocado oil” fail test; Borderline cholesterol—will a coronary calcium scan help decide whether a statin is warranted? Aged Garlic Extract for blood pressure; Immune benefits of BWH Beta Glucan. 

Low-fat dairy shown to confer no weight, cholesterol benefits over full-fat dairy; FDA and USDA to define ultra-processed foods for first time—but what are they really? Newly discovered tick-borne Bourbon virus can be fatal—but is it more pervasive than we think? Thorne supplement maker—sold 3 years ago for $700 million—acquired by Procter & Gamble for $3.8 billion. Those dark skin blotches—are they melasma, or just age spots? Is low-mercury salmon a hype? That fishy smell—does it mean your seafood is spoiled?

Managing High Homocysteine with MTHFR Variants and the Role of Vitamin C in Brain Aging: Registered dietitian nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses MTHFR genetic variants (C677T and A1298C), their links to impaired methylation, homocysteine, SAMe, mood issues, migraines, vitamin deficiencies, and pregnancy complications, noting many people are asymptomatic and some feel worse on methylated B vitamins and do better on standard formulations. Responding to a listener with C677T, high homocysteine, and borderline methylmalonic acid, she reviews optimal homocysteine targets and outlines other causes of elevated homocysteine such as hypothyroidism/subclinical hypothyroidism, kidney failure, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, inactivity, and medications (atorvastatin, methotrexate, fenofibrate). She suggests checking these factors, considering absorption issues (intrinsic factor) for B12, and trialing SAMe and more trimethylglycine, with possible pharmacologic folate if needed. She then summarizes an observational Japanese study (n=2,044 adults >64) linking lower plasma vitamin C to reduced gray matter and weaker default mode network connectivity, and notes diet and blood sugar can affect vitamin C status.

• The new vaccine schedule recommendations
• My urologist is giving me grief that my vitamin D level is too high
• Which nattokinase do you recommend to treat long covid?
• Is the vitamin K in your bone protocol different from the heart protocol?
• What about methylated B vitamins for brain vs. heart health?

• What are your thoughts on Cleveland Clinic's assessment of fish oil supplements?
• If I want to go on your sleep protocol, should I order all of the supplements or choose one?
• Do you still recommend individual assessments to determine natural treatments for anxiety and depression?
• Is taking Bergamot for cholesterol really effective?

Chemical engineer and MoldCo founder Ariana Thacker discusses mold-related illness, including chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS), as a major blind spot in conventional care for chronic, multi-system symptoms. Thacker recounts developing rapid-onset brain fog, slurred speech, GI issues, hair loss, weight gain, and shortness of breath after six and a half months in a moldy Miami apartment, seeing over a dozen specialists who attributed symptoms to stress or anxiety. They discuss exposures beyond allergy (mycotoxins, VOCs, microbial fragments), genetic susceptibility (HLA haplotypes), and prevalence estimates tied to water-damaged homes. The episode covers home detection (sensory/visual checks, humidity, dust PCR/ERMI testing, certified inspectors) and diagnostics/treatment via Shoemaker-related biomarkers and protocols, including low-starch diet guidance and VIP peptide therapy, plus MoldCo’s testing and virtual care services. Could mold exposure be affecting you? Get your risk score. Use the promo code IntelligentMed for 15% off the CIRS, Complete Panel, and Home Test.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with chemical engineer and MoldCo founder Ariana Thacker.

Creating a Healthier Home: Indoor Air Purification and Reverse Osmosis Water Safety. Environmental and wellness expert Helen Christoni discusses reducing toxic exposures at home through improved indoor air and water quality. Christoni describes her health crisis—severe osteoporosis at 42 and multiple fractures—which she attributes to chronic artificial fragrance exposure in beauty product development, and how purifying air and water helped her recover and later complete multiple marathons. They discuss indoor air hazards such as VOCs (including formaldehyde), microplastics, wildfire smoke particles, and the importance of using a sealed, high-grade HEPA (down to 0.003 microns) plus substantial carbon filtration, proper room sizing, and filter maintenance; they caution against relying on ionizers or UV add-ons. On water, Christoni urges reverse osmosis to address contaminants including lead, PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and arsenic, noting boiling concentrates pollutants; they also discuss shower filtration for chlorine/chloramines. Resources include airdoctor.com, aquatru.com, isyourairqualitysafe.com, and ismywatersafe.com.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with environmental and wellness expert Helen Christoni.

What happened to all those Balance of Nature commercials we used to hear? What are the pros and cons of male circumcision? Do women wearing thongs get more vaginal infections? Controversy over statins for seniors; An avocado a day may keep the cardiologist away; Major study flags frailty risks with GLP-1 drugs for seniors; Unlicensed doctor arrested after patient dies following NAD+ infusion; Short video “reels” may harm brain centers responsible for attention, executive function.

High-dose Vitamin D fails test in treatment of advanced colon cancer—but can prevent many early cancers from metastasizing; IV Vitamin C may delay progression Myelodysplastic syndrome, pancreatic cancer; Your future drug deliveries may be via drones; How to fight age-related “anabolic resistance”; Can osteoporosis be reversed with hormone replacement therapy and resistance exercise?

Lowering A1C in Prediabetes and Using Less Insulin on a Low-Carb Diet: Leyla Muedin, a registered dietitian nutritionist, answers listener questions about blood sugar and insulin. Responding to Rita, whose hemoglobin A1C rose from 5.6 to 5.8, Layla says “glucose hacks” to blunt carb absorption aren’t appropriate at that level and recommends a strict very low-carb/keto approach (under 25 grams of total carbs per day), avoiding sugar, starchy vegetables, fruit (except avocado), sweetened beverages, and even alternative sweeteners and low-carb processed products; she suggests retesting A1C after three months and avoiding testing during illness or inflammation. She also addresses Joy, a type 1 diabetic, affirming low-carb eating to reduce insulin needs and weight gain, criticizing an insurance pricing structure that charges more when insulin is used more slowly, and expressing concern about doctors prescribing insulin too quickly for type 2 diabetes instead of dietary intervention.

• Could you please comment on the new study that finds protein restriction could slow aging?
• Considerations for protein intake across the lifespan
• My bone mineral density has improved with strontium. Should I stop taking it?  What about vitamin K2?

• My HgbA1c is steady at 5.5. Could I reduce my metformin dose against the advice of my endocrinologist who states it's good for longevity?
• I have a large gallstone and am wondering what the pros and cons of having my gallbladder removed are.
• I take a lot of vitamins and am wondering if there's any easier way to ingest them?

Dr. Julie Siemers, a nurse educator and author of “Surviving Your Hospital Stay: A Nurse Educator's Guide to Staying Safe and Living to Tell About It,” details the importance of patient safety in hospitals, the dangers of medical errors, and how patients and their families can advocate for better care. Dr. Siemers talks about the critical role of nurses, the hierarchy within the nursing profession, and the importance of effective communication between healthcare providers and patients. She also offers practical advice on dealing with high-risk medications, leveraging AI in healthcare, and ensuring better health outcomes by being informed and proactive.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Julie Siemers, a nurse educator and author of “Surviving Your Hospital Stay: A Nurse Educator's Guide to Staying Safe and Living to Tell About It.” 

Precision Hormone Health: Testosterone, Menopause, Muscle, Sleep, and Proactive Longevity: Endocrinologist Dr. Florence Comite details her book “Invincible: Defy Your Genetic Destiny to Live Better, Longer” and her precision-medicine approach to proactive longevity. She discusses testosterone decline beginning in the 30s in both sexes, stress-related low T (including in special forces), and testosterone’s roles in energy, cognition, motivation, muscle, bone, and chronic disease risk. Comite argues genes are a “draft” and health destiny can be altered through epigenetic-like choices, individualized data, and early monitoring. For women, she emphasizes estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone in perimenopause/menopause, preferring bioidentical hormones and criticizing WHI’s use of Premarin/Provera and older participants. She covers osteoporosis prevention, muscle as an “organ of longevity,” protein intake, resistance training, continuous glucose monitors for individualized diet, sleep quality tracking via wearables, and selective use of DHEA, pregnenolone, growth hormone pathways, and peptides with attention to sourcing and risk.