Proven Health Alternatives

In this episode, I sit down with Detective Jay Lacayo to explore the intense physical and mental demands faced by SWAT and ESU officers. Jay takes us through the grueling journey to join these elite units—from passing the legendary Cooper Test to mastering high-pressure scenario training. His insights reveal how martial arts, mental sharpness, and evolving tactics shape what it truly means to be part of these specialized teams. But this conversation goes beyond the badge. Jay stresses the importance of continuous education and rigorous testing to keep officers at their best, a principle I strongly support for all healthcare and wellness professionals. He also shares his deep commitment to mental health, detailing his work with outreach programs tackling substance abuse and homelessness—reminding us that wellness isn’t just physical, but also mental and community-centered. Together, we dive into holistic wellness approaches, the role of training regimens, and how modern policing must adapt to new technologies and social dynamics. Whether you’re curious about law enforcement or passionate about health and resilience, this episode offers valuable lessons on discipline, self-care, and the evolving nature of service. Key Takeaways: Path to SWAT/ESU: Jay elucidates the career progression to SWAT roles, involving rigorous physical tests like the Cooper Test, and the crucial importance of mental fitness. Martial Arts for Law Enforcement: Emphasizes Brazilian Jiu Jitsu's effectiveness for police officers, aiding in weapon retention and reducing injury potential during altercations. Wellness and Training: Advocates for a structured fitness regime combined with combat training and the integration of mental health strategies for enhanced performance. Future of Law Enforcement: Predictions about technological advancements in policing, potentially involving drones and robotics amid a declining workforce interest. Community and Mental Health: Describes his role in the mental health outreach initiative and his dedication to supporting peers and community members with mental health challenges. More About Detective Jay Lacayo: Officer Jay Lacayo is a seasoned law enforcement professional with 18 years of service in New York City and White Plains. He began his career with the NYPD in 2005 before joining the White Plains Police Department in 2007, where he’s become a key figure in critical incident response and mental health outreach. A certified SWAT Operator and NYS EMT, Officer Lacayo spent a decade with the Emergency Services Unit, expertly handling high-stress situations involving barricaded subjects, emotionally disturbed persons, and suicidal individuals. His calm presence and ability to build rapport have earned him multiple awards, including the Westchester County Police Honor Award, Meritorious Duty Awards, and a Lifesaving Award. Now part of the Mental Health Outreach Team, Officer Lacayo bridges the gap between individuals in crisis and the services they need. His work continues to reflect a deep commitment to safety, empathy, and community trust. Podcast Instagram Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube This episode is sponsored by Professional Co-op®, where clinicians gain exceptional access to industry-leading lab services without the hefty price tag—since 2001, they’ve been redefining what efficient, patient-focused support looks like. Imagine no hidden fees, no minimums, and only paying for completed tests. Experience lab services that not only meet but also exceed your expectations. Join the co-op trusted by countless licensed clinicians nationwide. Visit www.professionalco-op.com to learn more! This episode is also made possible by Functional Medicine University. FMU is a fully online, self-paced training program in functional medicine, founded in 2006 by Dr. Ron Grisanti. With students in all 50 U.S. states and 68 countries globally, FMU has become a cornerstone in advanced clinical education for healthcare practitioners. The curriculum is led by Dr. Grisanti, alongside contributions from over 70 distinguished medical experts on FMU’s advisory board. Graduates earn the prestigious Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP®) credential upon completion. FMU is also a nationally approved provider of continuing education for a wide range of licensed professionals, including MDs, DCs, DOs, NDs, acupuncturists, PAs, NPs, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and dentists. Whether you're looking to expand your clinical knowledge or bring a functional approach to your practice, FMU offers the tools, guidance, and certification to help you thrive. Visit www.functionalmedicineuniversity.com to learn more! For over 50 years, NutriDyn has been a leader in functional nutrition, supporting healthcare practitioners with science-based supplements and unparalleled education. Since 1973, they’ve pioneered practitioner-exclusive formulas backed by rigorous testing and built on the latest research—delivering quality and peace of mind in every bottle. NutriDyn is more than just a supplement provider. They’re committed to empowering practitioners through world-class educational resources, including national conferences, workshops, and seminars led by industry thought leaders. From clinical support to dedicated sales reps, NutriDyn offers an integrated approach to help elevate your practice and patient outcomes. Trusted. Transparent. Practitioner-focused. Join NutriDyn’s wellness community and discover functional nutrition tailored for you—create your account today to take the first step toward better health: https://nutridyn.com/mprofile    

In this powerful and eye-opening episode, I sit down with Dane Johnson — Founder of Crohn’s Colitis Lifestyle and the visionary behind the S.H.I.E.L.D. program — to unpack the real-life strategies that helped him reclaim his health after a near-death battle with Crohn’s disease. With authenticity and purpose, Dane shares how he turned suffering into strength, leveraging natural medicine, functional nutrition, and integrative therapies to not just survive IBD — but thrive. His S.H.I.E.L.D. framework (Supplements, Herbs, Imagination, Exercise, Lifestyle, Diet) is a testament to personalized, root-cause healing that’s both sustainable and empowering. Together, we explore the complex terrain of IBD: From genetic predispositions to microbiome dysregulation The impact of chronic stress and environmental toxins The gut-brain-liver axis and the underrated role of the vagus nerve Why standard labs often fall short and how functional testing can guide recovery  And most importantly, why healing requires a mindset shift — not just a meal plan. Whether you’re a clinician, patient, or simply someone looking to understand chronic gut conditions through a functional lens — this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and practical tools for real transformation. Key Takeaways: Functional Medicine Approach: Dane Johnson emphasizes the importance of understanding root causes such as microbiome imbalance and environmental factors in managing IBD. The SHIELD Program: A comprehensive lifestyle and dietary program designed to empower individuals to reclaim their health by being the 'CEO' of their wellness journey. Microbiome and Inflammation: How an overgrowth of harmful bacteria and fungal species can lead to chronic inflammation and exacerbate IBD symptoms. Vagus Nerve Stimulation: The critical role of the vagus nerve in maintaining digestive health and how it can influence the body’s inflammatory response. Personal Health Advocacy: Encouragement to take charge of one's health by integrating knowledge, dietary changes, and functional testing to identify and address individual health needs. More About Dane Johnson: Dane Johnson is a holistic health practitioner and founder of Crohn’s Colitis Lifestyle focuses on the root-cause approach to healing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Drawing from his own near-death experience, Dane shares the pivotal realizations that led him away from conventional symptom management and toward lasting remission through his SHIELD Protocol. Listeners will discover how chronic gut inflammation, immune dysregulation, and emotional trauma all contribute to IBD and why a one-size-fits-all medical model often falls short. Dane unpacks the six pillars of his healing method, explains why personalized strategies are essential, and empowers practitioners and patients to embrace a new paradigm of gut healing: one rooted in functional medicine, lifestyle transformation, and real-world results. Whether you’re a clinician seeking better outcomes or someone living with IBD, this conversation offers practical insights and powerful hope for lasting change. Website Instagram Crohn’s Colitis IG Facebook YouTube BOOK YOUR COMPLIMENTARY SESSION WITH AN IBD SUPPORT SPECIALIST: https://cclpresentation.com/ibd-relief-special-podcast?source=RobSilvermanPodcast&el=RobSilvermanPodcast Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube This episode is sponsored by Professional Co-op®, where clinicians gain exceptional access to industry-leading lab services without the hefty price tag—since 2001, they’ve been redefining what efficient, patient-focused support looks like. Imagine no hidden fees, no minimums, and only paying for completed tests. Experience lab services that not only meet but also exceed your expectations. Join the co-op trusted by countless licensed clinicians nationwide. Visit www.professionalco-op.com to learn more! This episode is also made possible by Functional Medicine University. FMU is a fully online, self-paced training program in functional medicine, founded in 2006 by Dr. Ron Grisanti. With students in all 50 U.S. states and 68 countries globally, FMU has become a cornerstone in advanced clinical education for healthcare practitioners. The curriculum is led by Dr. Grisanti, alongside contributions from over 70 distinguished medical experts on FMU’s advisory board. Graduates earn the prestigious Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP®) credential upon completion. FMU is also a nationally approved provider of continuing education for a wide range of licensed professionals, including MDs, DCs, DOs, NDs, acupuncturists, PAs, NPs, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and dentists. Whether you're looking to expand your clinical knowledge or bring a functional approach to your practice, FMU offers the tools, guidance, and certification to help you thrive. Visit www.functionalmedicineuniversity.com to learn more!

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Myriah Hinchey, a functional medicine practitioner specializing in chronic illness and immune dysfunction, to explore the complex world of autoimmunity through the lens of Lyme disease and stealth pathogens. We dive into how these microbes evade the immune system, disrupt the body’s internal balance, and target areas of weakness — from old injuries to inflamed tissues. Dr. Hinchey explains how this leads to persistent inflammation, neurological symptoms, and gut dysfunction, often without obvious signs of infection. You’ll learn why a root-cause approach to chronic infections must go beyond antimicrobials — incorporating immune support, detoxification, terrain rebuilding, and the smart use of herbal medicine.   If you’ve struggled with unexplained symptoms, autoimmunity, or suspect hidden infections might be at play, this conversation will help you understand the deeper mechanisms — and what true healing actually takes. Key Takeaways: The central focus in treating Lyme disease should be on restoring immune balance and competency rather than solely targeting pathogens with antibiotics. Lyme disease can lead to significant systemic disruptions, manifesting in symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and even neuropsychiatric disorders. A therapeutic lifestyle approach, including dietary changes, detoxification, and stress management, is essential for effective management of chronic vector-borne diseases. Herbal medicine, especially herbs like Cryptolepis, Chinese Skullcap, and Japanese Knotweed, play a vital role in managing inflammation and immune dysregulation. More About Dr. Myriah Hinchey, ND: Dr. Myriah Hinchey, a Naturopathic physician and Fellow of the Medical Academy of Pediatric Special Needs (MAPS), is a recognized expert in the field of Lyme disease and other complex chronic inflammatory conditions, with over 17 years of specialized experience. As a physician and the Medical Director at TAO, an integrative center for healing, she has successfully guided thousands of patients towards recovery from their complex chronic inflammatory conditions. Additionally, she is the founder and owner of LymeCore Botanicals, a herbal medicine company focused on providing effective solutions for healing vector-borne diseases. Dr. Hinchey is dedicated to treating patients of all ages, with a specialty in pediatrics, and is also a sought-after speaker, passionately educating healthcare professionals on the pathophysiology of vector-borne diseases and how to successfully integrate functional, herbal, and lifestyle medicine into their practices. Website Instagram Facebook LymeCore Botanicals  LymeBytes Symposium on November 14th & 15th | REGISTER HERE Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube   This episode is sponsored by Professional Co-op®, where clinicians gain exceptional access to industry-leading lab services without the hefty price tag—since 2001, they’ve been redefining what efficient, patient-focused support looks like. Imagine no hidden fees, no minimums, and only paying for completed tests. Experience lab services that not only meet but also exceed your expectations. Join the co-op trusted by countless licensed clinicians nationwide. Visit www.professionalco-op.com to learn more! This episode is also made possible by Functional Medicine University. FMU is a fully online, self-paced training program in functional medicine, founded in 2006 by Dr. Ron Grisanti. With students in all 50 U.S. states and 68 countries globally, FMU has become a cornerstone in advanced clinical education for healthcare practitioners. The curriculum is led by Dr. Grisanti, alongside contributions from over 70 distinguished medical experts on FMU’s advisory board. Graduates earn the prestigious Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP®) credential upon completion. FMU is also a nationally approved provider of continuing education for a wide range of licensed professionals, including MDs, DCs, DOs, NDs, acupuncturists, PAs, NPs, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and dentists. Whether you're looking to expand your clinical knowledge or bring a functional approach to your practice, FMU offers the tools, guidance, and certification to help you thrive. Visit www.functionalmedicineuniversity.com to learn more!

Can fish oil really transform your health? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Charles Sefcik, a board-certified chiropractic neurologist and certified clinical nutritionist, to explore one of the most powerful and underrated tools in functional medicine: omega-3s. We break down how EPA and DHA support your brain, hormones, metabolism, and inflammation pathways—and why most people aren’t getting nearly enough from food alone. We also share what to look for in a quality fish oil supplement, how to avoid common pitfalls like oxidation and poor sourcing, and why testing your fatty acid levels can make all the difference. Packed with clinical insight and real-world advice, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to use nutrition as a foundation for long-term health Key Takeaways: Omega-3 fatty acids are critical for cell membrane fluidity, reducing inflammation, and enhancing cognitive function. Fish oil quality matters; choose supplements devoid of contaminants like mercury and PCBs and go for third-party certified products. Omega-3s have a profound impact on reducing neuroinflammation and supporting hormone function, influencing overall brain health and longevity. Regular testing, like the OmegaQuant, can provide valuable insights into your fatty acid balance, guiding effective supplementation and dietary adjustments. Combining omega-3 supplements with a healthy diet and lifestyle can prevent chronic diseases, promote muscle synthesis, and ensure optimum brain health.   More About Dr. Charles Sefcik: Dr. Charles Sefcik is a board certified chiropractic neurologist, certified clinical nutritionist, founder and clinical director of the Life Enhancement Clinic in Bismarck, ND. He is a faculty member of the Continuing Education Department at Northwestern Health Sciences University. He uses a variety of conventional and functional diagnostic testing for improved clinical outcomes. Areas of special interest include head and neck pain, low back pain, gastrointestinal complaints and lifestyle medicine.  Website Facebook Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube For over 50 years, NutriDyn has been a leader in functional nutrition, supporting healthcare practitioners with science-based supplements and unparalleled education. Since 1973, they’ve pioneered practitioner-exclusive formulas backed by rigorous testing and built on the latest research—delivering quality and peace of mind in every bottle. NutriDyn is more than just a supplement provider. They’re committed to empowering practitioners through world-class educational resources, including national conferences, workshops, and seminars led by industry thought leaders. From clinical support to dedicated sales reps, NutriDyn offers an integrated approach to help elevate your practice and patient outcomes. Trusted. Transparent. Practitioner-focused. 🚀Join NutriDyn’s wellness community and discover functional nutrition tailored for you—create your account today to take the first step toward better health: https://nutridyn.com/mprofile

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Heather Stone, a leading functional medicine practitioner with over 20 years of experience,  to unpack why so many thyroid issues go undiagnosed or mismanaged. We go beyond the standard TSH lab test to explore the real drivers of thyroid dysfunction — from gut imbalances and hormone shifts to environmental triggers often overlooked in conventional care. You’ll hear why medication alone rarely resolves symptoms long term, and why a precision-based, root-cause approach is essential for lasting healing. We dive deep into Hashimoto’s, autoimmune flare-ups, and the exact moments in life when women are most vulnerable to thyroid breakdown — like postpartum and menopause. If you’ve ever been told “your labs look normal” but you still feel off, this episode is for you. It’s time to move from symptom management to root cause resolution. Key Takeaways: Identify Underlying Causes: Healing thyroid dysfunction requires looking beyond hormone prescriptions to address immune, gut, adrenal, and environmental triggers. Comprehensive Testing: Traditional TSH testing is inadequate alone; a full thyroid panel and additional health markers are crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Lifestyle Integration: Dietary changes, particularly eliminating gluten and dairy, and stabilizing blood sugar are pivotal for improving thyroid function and overall health. Functional vs. Traditional Medicine: Functional medicine offers a holistic approach that focuses on the root causes of symptoms rather than managing them with medications. Women's Health Concerns: Women are more susceptible to thyroid issues due to hormonal fluctuations and stress, necessitating tailored approaches to diagnosis and care.   More About Dr. Heather Stone, DC: Dr. Heather Stone, DC is one of the top functional medicine practitioners in the world. She has over 20 years of clinical experience in private practice. During that time she has successfully helped thousands of women overcome the symptoms of hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Her thyroid transformation blueprint has been used by hundreds of doctors, and thus has helped countless women return to happy, healthy, & lean. Her mission is to change the face of healthcare through her private practice, books, masterclasses, webinars, education programs, and retreats on her ranch in Texas. SPECIAL GIVEAWAY! Download exclusive resources here: http://thyroidtransformationblueprint.com/ Website Instagram Facebook YouTube Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube   This episode is sponsored by Professional Co-op®, where clinicians gain exceptional access to industry-leading lab services without the hefty price tag—since 2001, they’ve been redefining what efficient, patient-focused support looks like. Imagine no hidden fees, no minimums, and only paying for completed tests. Experience lab services that not only meet but also exceed your expectations. Join the co-op trusted by countless licensed clinicians nationwide. Visit www.professionalco-op.com to learn more! This episode is also made possible by Functional Medicine University. FMU is a fully online, self-paced training program in functional medicine, founded in 2006 by Dr. Ron Grisanti. With students in all 50 U.S. states and 68 countries globally, FMU has become a cornerstone in advanced clinical education for healthcare practitioners. The curriculum is led by Dr. Grisanti, alongside contributions from over 70 distinguished medical experts on FMU’s advisory board. Graduates earn the prestigious Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP®) credential upon completion. FMU is also a nationally approved provider of continuing education for a wide range of licensed professionals, including MDs, DCs, DOs, NDs, acupuncturists, PAs, NPs, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and dentists. Whether you're looking to expand your clinical knowledge or bring a functional approach to your practice, FMU offers the tools, guidance, and certification to help you thrive. Visit www.functionalmedicineuniversity.com to learn more!

In this episode, I chat with Dr. Pedram Shojai to dive into the fascinating connection between your gut and your overall health. We break down neuroception — how your body subconsciously scans for safety — and why it plays such a critical role in healing and performance. We get into the gut’s “second brain,” the enteric nervous system, and how it drives your physical and mental well-being without you even realizing it. Dr. Shojai also shares real-world insights on tackling dysbiosis, understanding gut-immune symbiosis, and how simple lifestyle shifts can radically improve your health. If you’ve ever wondered how stress, gut health, and the nervous system all tie together — and how to actually use that knowledge to feel better — this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Key Takeaways: Understanding Neuroception: Neuroception refers to the subconscious detection of safety or threat in the body, playing a crucial role in both gut health and overall well-being. Gut as an Immune Organ: The gut houses the majority of the body's immune cells, acting as a critical barrier between the inside of the body and external threats. Role of Stress in Gut Health: Chronic stress can disrupt gut microbiota, leading to issues like dysbiosis and gut permeability, thereby affecting mental health. Food Sensitivities: Identifying and avoiding food sensitivities can prevent chronic inflammation, leading to better overall health. Holistic Approaches to Wellness: Emphasizing mind-body practices, such as meditation and breath work, can improve gut health by promoting a balanced parasympathetic state.   More About Dr. Pedram Shojai: Dr. Pedram Shojai is a man with many titles. He is the founder and director of The Urban Monk Academy. He’s the NYT Best Sellingauthor of the books Rise and Shine, The Urban Monk, The Art ofStopping Time, Inner Alchemy, Exhausted, Trauma, Focus, andConscious Parenting.He’s the producer of the movies Vitality, Origins, Prosperity, and TheGreat Heist and the docuseries: Interconnected, Gateway to Health,Exhausted, Trauma, Conscious Parenting, Hormones Health & Harmony, and Gut Check.He’s the host of“The Urban Monk” podcast and is a key influencer in the health and personal development space.He’s a prominent physician in the functional medicine space and is known for his ability to bring people together around ideas that matter. oing all this, he’s a chill guy who now lives up in the mountains and values his days on how much time he gets with his family. As a former monk, he strives to bring enlightenment and peace to the orld around him. Website Instagram Interconnected FREE screening event | REGISTER HERE Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube   This episode is sponsored by Professional Co-op®, where clinicians gain exceptional access to industry-leading lab services without the hefty price tag—since 2001, they’ve been redefining what efficient, patient-focused support looks like. Imagine no hidden fees, no minimums, and only paying for completed tests. Experience lab services that not only meet but also exceed your expectations. Join the co-op trusted by countless licensed clinicians nationwide. Visit www.professionalco-op.com to learn more! This episode is also made possible by Functional Medicine University. FMU is a fully online, self-paced training program in functional medicine, founded in 2006 by Dr. Ron Grisanti. With students in all 50 U.S. states and 68 countries globally, FMU has become a cornerstone in advanced clinical education for healthcare practitioners. The curriculum is led by Dr. Grisanti, alongside contributions from over 70 distinguished medical experts on FMU’s advisory board. Graduates earn the prestigious Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP®) credential upon completion. FMU is also a nationally approved provider of continuing education for a wide range of licensed professionals, including MDs, DCs, DOs, NDs, acupuncturists, PAs, NPs, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and dentists. Whether you're looking to expand your clinical knowledge or bring a functional approach to your practice, FMU offers the tools, guidance, and certification to help you thrive. Visit www.functionalmedicineuniversity.com to learn more!

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Deanna Minich — a nutrition scientist and author of the Rainbow Diet — to talk about a topic we don’t hear nearly enough about: the power of color in our food. We dive into what food colors actually do in the body, how they impact everything from mood to memory, and why most of us are walking around with a “color deficiency” without even realizing it. Dr. Minich breaks down the functional role of phytonutrients in a way that’s easy to understand, yet incredibly eye-opening. She also challenges conventional diet labels (vegan, carnivore, etc.) and instead invites us to build a more personal, color-coded relationship with food. If you’ve ever wondered how to shift from counting calories to eating more consciously — or if you're just curious about what “eating the rainbow” really means — this conversation will give you a whole new lens for looking at your plate. Key Takeaways: The Rainbow Diet Philosophy: Move beyond traditional diet patterns to embrace a personalized nutrition approach focusing on the incorporation of diverse phytonutrient-rich colors in the diet. Colorful Foods & Health Benefits: Each color in food offers unique phytonutrients and health advantages, from supporting inflammation control with red foods to enhancing brain function with blue and purple foods. Importance of Creativity and Diversity: Diversifying food types and embracing new combinations can break monotonous eating habits and enrich the microbiome with varied phytonutrients. Chrono Nutrition: Align eating patterns with natural rhythms for optimal metabolic health, integrating concepts like circadian rhythm, seasonal, and lunar dietary adjustments. Expanding the Role of Food: More than sustenance, food represents culture, emotion, and interconnectedness, urging a balanced evaluation of its role in personal well-being. More About Dr. Deanna Minich, PhD: Dr. Deanna Minich is a renowned nutrition scientist, international speaker, educator, and author with 20+ years of experience bridging the gap between science and soul. She’s currently the Chief Science Officer at Symphony Natural Health and the founder of Food & Spirit™, where she integrates functional nutrition with lifestyle medicine to support whole-person healing. Her background spans academia, clinical research, and the dietary supplement industry — including over 50 published scientific papers, seven books, and four book chapters on wellness. Known for her engaging and accessible approach, Dr. Minich empowers people to transform their health through color, creativity, and connection. Website Instagram The Rainbow Diet on Amazon Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube   This episode is sponsored by Professional Co-op®, where clinicians gain exceptional access to industry-leading lab services without the hefty price tag—since 2001, they’ve been redefining what efficient, patient-focused support looks like. Imagine no hidden fees, no minimums, and only paying for completed tests. Experience lab services that not only meet but also exceed your expectations. Join the co-op trusted by countless licensed clinicians nationwide. Visit www.professionalco-op.com to learn more! This episode is also made possible by Functional Medicine University. FMU is a fully online, self-paced training program in functional medicine, founded in 2006 by Dr. Ron Grisanti. With students in all 50 U.S. states and 68 countries globally, FMU has become a cornerstone in advanced clinical education for healthcare practitioners. The curriculum is led by Dr. Grisanti, alongside contributions from over 70 distinguished medical experts on FMU’s advisory board. Graduates earn the prestigious Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP®) credential upon completion. FMU is also a nationally approved provider of continuing education for a wide range of licensed professionals, including MDs, DCs, DOs, NDs, acupuncturists, PAs, NPs, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and dentists. Whether you're looking to expand your clinical knowledge or bring a functional approach to your practice, FMU offers the tools, guidance, and certification to help you thrive. Visit www.functionalmedicineuniversity.com to learn more!

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Dale Bredesen, a true pioneer in Alzheimer's research and functional medicine. Together, we dive into groundbreaking advancements in the world of neurodegenerative diseases, with a special focus on the exciting breakthroughs in detecting and potentially reversing Alzheimer's and other related conditions. Dr. Bredesen sheds light on the new disease mechanisms and innovative blood tests that are changing the game, showing us that cognitive decline isn’t something we simply have to accept. We also explore his integrative approach to combating Alzheimer's, which includes lifestyle modifications, early detection, and a holistic strategy for better brain health. This conversation is packed with hope and real strategies for a future where Alzheimer's doesn't have to be inevitable. Key Takeaways: New Era of Research: Alzheimer's and similar neurodegenerative diseases are not death sentences, thanks to innovative research and new treatment protocols that emphasize early detection and intervention. Significance of Gut Health: Investigations reveal that gut microbiota and inflammation are crucial risk factors in cognitive decline, underscoring the importance of gut health in preventing Alzheimer's. Role of Lifestyle Changes: Diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management are integral to maintaining brain health and can significantly influence the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Advance in Diagnostics: Cutting-edge blood tests such as P Tau217 and brain scans can detect early signs of Alzheimer's up to 20 years prior to diagnosis, offering opportunities for preemptive action. The Power of Personalized Medicine: Individualized protocols based on genetic testing, like assessing APOE status, are pivotal in developing effective prevention and treatment strategies for cognitive disorders. More About Dr. Dale Bredesen: Dr. Dale Bredesen, M.D., is a globally recognized expert in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. With a background that includes graduating from Caltech and earning his M.D. from Duke University Medical Center, Dr. Bredesen’s career is marked by groundbreaking research and clinical expertise. He completed his residency as chief resident in neurology at UCSF and further honed his skills at Nobel laureate Stanley Prusiner’s lab at UCSF as an NIH postdoctoral fellow. Dr. Bredesen’s academic career includes faculty positions at prestigious institutions like UCSF, UCLA, and UC San Diego. As the founding president and CEO of the Buck Institute for Research on Aging, he spearheaded pioneering work in the study of aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Currently, he serves as the chief medical officer of MPI Cognition, where he continues his innovative research and efforts to combat Alzheimer’s and related conditions. Dr. Bredesen’s expertise and leadership have made him a key figure in the field, with a focus on integrative approaches to prevent and reverse cognitive decline. His contributions are reshaping our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases, offering new hope for those affected by them. Website Instagram Take a Cognitive Assessment here: https://www.apollohealthco.com/know-your-cq/ Get a brain scan: https://getabrainscan.com/ KetoFLEX 12/3: https://www.trifectanutrition.com/apollohealthpartner Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube   This episode is sponsored by Professional Co-op®, where clinicians gain exceptional access to industry-leading lab services without the hefty price tag—since 2001, they’ve been redefining what efficient, patient-focused support looks like. Imagine no hidden fees, no minimums, and only paying for completed tests. Experience lab services that not only meet but also exceed your expectations. Join the co-op trusted by countless licensed clinicians nationwide. Visit www.professionalco-op.com to learn more! This episode is also made possible by Functional Medicine University. FMU is a fully online, self-paced training program in functional medicine, founded in 2006 by Dr. Ron Grisanti. With students in all 50 U.S. states and 68 countries globally, FMU has become a cornerstone in advanced clinical education for healthcare practitioners. The curriculum is led by Dr. Grisanti, alongside contributions from over 70 distinguished medical experts on FMU’s advisory board. Graduates earn the prestigious Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP®) credential upon completion. FMU is also a nationally approved provider of continuing education for a wide range of licensed professionals, including MDs, DCs, DOs, NDs, acupuncturists, PAs, NPs, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and dentists. Whether you're looking to expand your clinical knowledge or bring a functional approach to your practice, FMU offers the tools, guidance, and certification to help you thrive. Visit www.functionalmedicineuniversity.com to learn more!

In this exciting episode, I sit down with Tim Anderson, creator of the Original Strength System, to explore how overuse injuries sparked the development of a method that helps people restore their primal movement patterns—essentially pressing their 'reset' button for better mobility and reduced pain. Together, we break down the connection between mobility, stability, and strength, highlighting how they work together to support optimal health. Tim shares how the Original Strength System offers a simple yet powerful approach to reclaiming movement, improving physical function, and counteracting the effects of a sedentary lifestyle. From daily exercises to breathing techniques, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways to help you move better, feel better, and build a foundation for long-term vitality. Key Takeaways: Original Strength Concept: Discover the importance of reconnecting with the natural movement abilities we are born with to enhance health and prevent pain. Five Key Resets: Learn the five central movements of the Original Strength System—breathing, head control, rolling, rocking, and crawling—that can help reset the body’s functionality. Importance of Breathing: Understand the critical role that proper breathing plays in reducing stress, improving movement, and enhancing body function. Pain and Safety: Explore how pain is a signal from the brain indicating a need for movement safety and discover methods to reassure the nervous system to alleviate it. Continuous Movement: Embrace the philosophy that integrating natural movements throughout the day leads to improved well-being and longevity. More About Tim Anderson: Tim Anderson is the creator of Original Strength Systems, a movement philosophy designed to help people reclaim their natural strength and resilience. His mission is simple: to spread the hope and power of movement to everybody. Through his groundbreaking approach, Tim teaches people how to "Press RESET" on their bodies using the fundamental movements we were all designed for. An author, speaker, and movement coach, Tim has written several books, including Pressing RESET: Original Strength Reloaded, The Becoming Bulletproof Project, and A Simple Book of Strength. His motto? “It feels good to feel good.” Whether through his writing, teaching, or coaching, Tim is dedicated to helping people move better, feel stronger, and rediscover the joy of living in their bodies. Website Instagram Amazon Store YouTube Channel Intro to Original Strength Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

In this latest episode of Proven Health Alternatives, I sit down with Dr. Eric Viegas, a Medical Product Manager, to break down the booming supplement industry and its crucial role in modern health. We discuss why supplements are essential for many people today—helping to fill critical nutrient gaps in our diets. But with that rise in demand comes a major challenge: quality control. Dr. Viegas sheds light on the risks of low-quality supplements, from inconsistent potency to contamination, and shares key strategies for ensuring product credibility—like looking for third-party testing and CGMP certifications. Whether you're a practitioner or a health-conscious consumer, this episode will help you navigate the supplement market with confidence and make informed choices for better health. Key Takeaways: Supplement Quality Indicators: Learn how third-party CGMP certification and brand credibility play critical roles in ensuring safe and effective dietary supplements. Understanding Fillers and Forms: Dr. Viegas explains the importance of bioavailability in nutrient absorption, specifically how certain forms like chelated minerals are superior. Top Supplement Choices: The discussion includes various popular supplements like magnesium, omega-3s, and probiotics, and offers insights into their best applications and benefits. Role of Practitioners: Emphasizing the need for practitioner guidance in supplement selection, the episode discusses how healthcare professionals can integrate quality assessments into patient education. The Danger of Misinformation: Tips on discerning credible supplement information from prevalent misinformation on social media platforms are provided, helping consumers make informed decisions. More About Dr. Eric Viegas: Dr. Eric Viegas is a licensed naturopathic doctor in Ontario, Canada. He is currently serving as the Medical Product Manager and Medical Advisor at Fullscript, where he focuses on whole person care, supplement quality, and practitioner education. With extensive experience in the supplement industry, Dr. Viegas works closely with practitioners to ensure they have access to high-quality, research-backed supplements for their patients. He is passionate about educating both healthcare providers and patients on the importance of proper supplementation and how to navigate the ever-expanding supplement market with confidence. 🚀Click here if you want to set up an account: https://us.fullscript.com/practitioner-signup/dr-silverman Website Instagram Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube