Nutritional and botanical interventions, including bitter herbs, omega-3 fatty acids and targeted nutrient balance offer evidence-based alternatives to GLP-1 drugs, as well as opportunities to support those patients already using GLP-1 medications in mitigating side effects and augmenting their results.

About this Episode Episode 8 – airs August 21st, 2025 In this episode, Dr. Daina Parent, ND, sits down with Laurence Katsaras—Naturopath, Acupuncturist, and classically trained Western Herbalist—for a deep dive into incretin hormones, especially GLP-1’s and their far-reaching effects on the body. They discuss the interconnected web of health in which all physiological pathways work together, and how GLP-1 medications can distort this web leading to unintended effects elsewhere. They highlight clinical takeaways for keeping the web strong through hormone balance, gut health, herbs, diet, and lifestyle. They explore the pros and cons of GLP-1 receptor agonist medications, herbal and lifestyle recommendations to help manage side effects, and natural approaches that support the body’s own ability to regulate these pathways. Laurence also shares insights from his 20 years in the natural medicine industry as a clinician, researcher, and educator. A sought-after speaker in the naturopathic and complementary medicine field across Australia and New Zealand, he is known for translating emerging research into practical, actionable strategies for clinical practice. Use the audio player above to listen now! And don’t forget to follow and like our podcast channel to stay up-to-date on upcoming podcast episodes. Highlights of the episode include: GLP-1 medication effects vs. the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone activity Risks for women in perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause: muscle loss and bone health impacts Herbal compounds that stimulate GLP-1 receptors naturally The complex web of health: restoring balance in interconnected physiological systems Broad benefits of bitter herbs on the gut microbiome as part of a holistic approach to metabolic health Podcast Summary 1:30 Defining incretin hormones, including GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) 5:06 Organs that are influenced by incretin hormones, and how are they affected 7:48 GLP-1 medication effects vs. the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone activity 8:53 Side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonist medications 11:00 Concerns about weight loss, muscle loss and rebound weight gain after discontinuing medication 15:30 Importance of continuing holistic diet and lifestyle habits after going off medications 18:20 Risks for women in perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause: muscle loss and bone health impacts 20:07 Herbal compounds that stimulate GLP-1 receptors naturally—gentle, holistic alternatives without dramatic or rapid changes 29:00 How bitter herbs and foods stimulate incretin hormone production naturally 30:30 Herbs with metabolic benefits and that support GLP-1 function 32:25 Is long-term GLP-1 medication use sustainable considering side effects and costs? Harnessing the body’s innate ability to rebalance 33:30 The complex web of health: restoring balance in interconnected physiological systems 36:22 Discontinuation rates of GLP-1 medications: potential for combining herbal approaches with medication 39:00 Herbal safety: choosing the right herb for the right person, only when truly needed 41:14 Broad benefits of bitter herbs on the gut microbiome as part of a holistic approach to metabolic health 47:10 The “interconnected web of health”—how a single strand impacts the whole system 49:20 Clinical guidance for supporting patients considering or currently taking GLP-1 medications This podcast is sponsored by Standard Process About Standard Process – Only at SP https://youtu.be/G6AbE7ddb6s?si=GDwF0V6SooMgv3ML

About this Episode Episode 7 – airs August 7th, 2025 Dr. Daina Parent, ND and Dr. Sarah Clarke, DC, IFMCP engage in an informative clinical conversation about all things folate. From whole food forms to folate’s influence on epigenetics, they transform complex biochemistry into a clear, easy-to-follow, and engaging conversation with clinical gems. They discuss the relationship between folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine on mental health, brain function, and cardiovascular health and cover biomarkers to help clinicians properly test patients for deficiencies. Drs Parent and Clarke highlight throughout the episode the importance of consuming a whole foods diet that emphasizes foods high in natural forms of folate to support whole body health. Use the audio player above to listen now! And don’t forget to follow and like our podcast channel to stay up-to-date on upcoming podcast episodes. Highlights of the episode include: Natural and whole food forms of folate vs. synthetic folic acid Plant sources of folate when consumed in a whole foods diet Folate’s role in mental health, mood and cognition Golden Chlorella – superfood with folate and vegetarian source of B12 Podcast Summary 2:10 Folate (vitamin B9) overview – why is folate important and what is it’s role in the body? 4:30 Methylation: a folate-dependent process – how is methylation connected to epigenetics and overall healthy functions of body systems 7:00 Foods that contain methyl donors for methylation – including turnip greens, collard greens and other leafy greens 9:00 Methylation and aging 10:00 Natural forms of folate vs. synthetic folic acid 15:10 Why folic acid isn’t the ideal for everyone 17:45 Plant sources of folate when consumed in a whole foods diet 21:00 Dangers of the SAD Diet (Standard American Diet) and over consumption of fortified foods with folic acid 23:35 How malabsorption of nutrients due to GI conditions can impact levels of folate in the body 25:00 When we need more folate and lifestyle habits and medications that impact absorption of folate 27:58 Folate’s role in mental health, mood and cognition – brain health, brain function, and aging 32:10 Folate and it’s connection to cardiovascular health and the importance of B12 and folate in creating balanced homocysteine levels 35:27 Golden Chlorella – superfood with folate and vegetarian source of B12 35:58 How to measure homocysteine and other important biomarkers 41:52 The benefits of running a CBC to help determine folate or B12 deficiencies 44:20 Clinical case that demonstrates the need to find the right form of folate and B12 for each person 45:44 Benefits of whole food forms of folate and B vitamins This podcast is sponsored by Standard Process About Standard Process – Only at SP https://youtu.be/jF7xtqntPFg?si=m7ojkj5yC3v5NlAx

In the search for foods that offer exceptional health benefits, Swiss chard and buckwheat stand out as two versatile, nutrient-dense vegetables. Though very different in form—one a leafy green, the other a gluten-free pseudo-grain—they share a reputation for supporting a wide range of bodily systems. Packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds, Swiss chard and buckwheat deserve a top spot in any health-conscious diet. Swiss Chard: A Colorful Leafy Supergreen  Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla) is a member of the beet family, known for its vibrant stems and dark, crinkled leaves. It is low in calories but high in nutrients, making it a favorite in Mediterranean and plant-based diets. Swiss chard is rich in micronutrients. Its an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A (as beta-carotene), vitamin C, and magnesium. One cooked cup of chard delivers over 300% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone metabolism. Vitamin A supports vision, immune function, and cellular growth, while vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant and collagen builder. The high content of vitamin K, magnesium, and calcium in Swiss chard plays a synergistic role in bone formation and maintenance. Vitamin K specifically activates proteins that regulate calcium deposition in bones and prevents calcium buildup in arteries.  Swiss chard contains unique flavonoids like syringic acid, which may help regulate blood sugar by inhibiting alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme involved in carbohydrate breakdown. This slows glucose absorption and may support healthy blood sugar levels, especially useful for individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.  High in nitrate-rich compounds, Swiss chard supports vascular dilation and blood pressure regulation. Potassium and magnesium further contribute to maintaining a healthy heart rhythm and reducing hypertension.  With its spectrum of phytonutrients, including betalains (also found in beets), chard acts as an antioxidant powerhouse. These compounds help neutralize oxidative stress and may reduce inflammation—an underlying cause of many chronic diseases. Swiss chard’s fiber, chlorophyll, and betacyanins support liver health and detoxification. Fiber helps eliminate waste through the digestive tract, while betacyanins may support phase II liver detox enzymes.  Buckwheat: Complete Protein and Robust Nutrient Profile Despite its name, buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) is not a grain and contains no wheat or gluten. It is a pseudocereal, related to rhubarb and sorrel, and is prized for its robust nutritional profile and adaptability in gluten-free diets.  Buckwheat is one of the few plant foods that provides a complete protein—meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. This makes it particularly valuable for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone seeking high-quality protein without animal products.  Buckwheat contains resistant starch and soluble fiber, which support gut health, regulate bowel movements, and feed beneficial gut bacteria. Its fiber also contributes to slower glucose absorption, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.  Buckwheat is high in rutin, a flavonoid known to strengthen capillaries, reduce blood pressure, and provide antioxidant protection to blood vessels. Magnesium, another heart-protective mineral found in buckwheat, helps relax blood vessels and improve circulation.  Thanks to its fiber and protein content, buckwheat promotes satiety, reduces cravings, and helps control appetite. Its low glycemic index supports stable energy levels without blood sugar spikes and crashes, making it ideal for weight management and sustained energy.  In addition to rutin, buckwheat contains quercetin and tocopherols, which provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. These compounds have been studied for their role in reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol, and supporting immune function.  Buckwheat is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and nutritious grain alternative for people with celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or anyone seeking to reduce their gluten intake. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also support gut lining integrity.  Nutrient Spotlight: Magnesium Both Swiss chard and buckwheat are incredibly high in magnesium, a nutrient that is required for over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body- reactions which are crucial for DNA synthesis, muscle and nerve function, bone health and blood sugar stabilization.   Magnesium in supplements can be found in many different forms, such as magnesium glycinate, magnesium threonate and magnesium citrate. These forms of magnesium combine the magnesium ions with an amino acid like glycine or similar compounds to facilitate absorption across the digestive epithelium. The different forms of magnesium supplements are thought to have particular strengths or affinities within the body, such as sleep support and stress management, or muscle relaxation. Improved digestive absorption, however, does not necessarily translate into superior bioavailability if that magnesium isn’t able to effectively reach particular parts of the body, such as crossing the blood brain barrier.   Whole foods, such as Swiss chard and buckwheat, contain magnesium ions naturally held within the structure of the plant, primarily bound to chlorophyll. This naturally-occurring magnesium easily absorbed in the gut, and also demonstrates higher bioavailability within the nervous system than other forms of magnesium. Pre-Clinical Study on Magnesium-Deficient Patients In one pre-clinical study of magnesium-deficient subjects, administration of an extract of Swiss chard and buckwheat resulted in higher brain concentrations of magnesium than other forms of magnesium supplements, including magnesium threonate and glycinate.1  This higher brain concentration of magnesium indicates that magnesium sourced from whole foods is more effectively able to cross the blood brain barrier than the forms of magnesium commonly found in nutritional supplements. When using magnesium to support nervous system health, including the relief of anxiety and support for sleep pathways, bioavailability across the blood brain barrier is key for therapeutic efficacy.  Key Takeaways Swiss chard and buckwheat complement each other well in a nutrient-rich diet. While Swiss chard brings in chlorophyll, carotenoids, and blood-building minerals, buckwheat offers robust fiber, plant protein, and vascular-supportive flavonoids. Both foods are highly versatile: Swiss chard can be sautéed, added to soups, or blended into smoothies, while buckwheat can be cooked like rice, used in porridge, made into pancakes, or ground into flour for baking.  Swiss chard and buckwheat are more than just healthy—they’re functional foods that provide deep support for the cardiovascular system, metabolism, gut health, cognitive function, and overall vitality. Incorporating these two nutrient-dense foods into weekly meals offers a simple, affordable way to harness the healing power of nature and nourish the body at every level.    Did you know WholisticMatters is powered by Standard Process? Learn more about Standard Process’ whole food-based nutrition philosophy.   Learn More

Folate is a general term used to describe many different forms of vitamin B9. It is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including DNA synthesis, DNA repair, cell division, and maintaining healthy red blood cells. It is particularly important for women of childbearing age as it helps prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus. Folate is found naturally in plant foods where it is present in up to five different forms1: • 5-methyl-Tetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) • 5-formyl-THF • 10-formyl-THF • Tetrahydrofolate (THF) • 5,10-methylene-THF Sources of Folate High sources of folate can be found in plants like collard greens, turnip greens, spinach, broccoli, beans, citrus fruits, and some algae, each providing various levels of formyl and methyl folates. Supplements that combine more than one plant source can offer a full spectrum of folate forms, covering the wide range of needs for folate metabolism. The need for a variety of folate forms has been studied in relation to depression, autism, autoimmune issues, and aging. In each of these conditions, the primary folate receptor may be blocked, requiring the use of alternate folate receptors and transport mechanisms, some of which have a higher affinity for formyl forms of folate.2 Folate Supplement Considerations Various dietary supplement folate products are available. Most formulas contain isolated, synthetic methylated folate. While potentially effective, these supraphysiological dosed supplements carry the potential to mask B12 deficiency or push sensitive patients into hypo- or hyper-methylated states. Supplements derived from natural, food-based folate sources may support a more balanced intervention, and offer multiple forms including both methyl and formyl folate.  Food folate supplements are typically lower dose, and less concentrated than isolated synthetics. Still, they are often preferred by those who desire supplementing vitamins and minerals in a form found in nature, with their whole-food matrix of naturally occurring nutrients and phytoactive components. Folic Acid Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate commonly used in dietary supplements and fortified foods. It is the most widely available form of vitamin B9, the most stable form, and the most well-studied. Folic acid is not found naturally in food but is used to fortify grains, such as bread, pasta, and cereals. The U.S. government began fortifying foods with folic acid in 1998 as part of a public health initiative to reduce the risk of neural tube defects (NTD). This fortification program has successfully reduced, but not eliminated, the incidence in the general population. Folic acid is very stable and easily absorbed, but it must undergo reduction and methylation to become the active form, 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF). This conversion process requires two enzymes: dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR). However, variations in the genes that code for these enzymes are quite common in the population. These variations (single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs) can affect how efficiently those enzymes convert folic acid into 5-MTHF, leading to unmet folate needs and health consequences in some. While fortification has reduced the incidence of NTD, there are emerging concerns about the accumulation of unmetabolized folic acid (UMFA) in the bloodstream, especially in individuals with genetic variations.3 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) 5-MTHF, sometimes called methyl folate, can also be synthetically derived for supplement use. It is gaining popularity due to the increased awareness of DHFR and MTHFR gene variants. In such cases, taking a supplement that contains active folate can help bypass the need for conversion. The efficiency and safety of 5-MTHF has been well established in the literature,3 but the question of whether high doses interfere with uptake of natural sources remains to be answered. Folinic Acid (5-Formyltetrahydrofolate) Folinic acid (5-formyl THF) is another form of folate found in dietary supplements. It is more bioavailable than folic acid, as it can be readily converted into the active 5-MTHF form without needing the same enzymatic conversion that folic acid requires. While it is not as well-known as folic acid or 5-MTHF, folinic acid has been used in medical treatments, particularly in cases of cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) associated with depression, autism, autoimmune issues, and aging, and during chemotherapy to mitigate side effects.2,4 Because folinic acid is a formyl folate, the above uses support the case that multiple forms are needed in the diet.  Folate Clinical Takeaways Folate is essential to all aspects of life, and a daily supply is essential for biological processes to run smoothly. While food is the best source of folate and other nutrients, the standard American diet of processed and refined foods leaves the population to rely mostly on folic acid from fortified grains and cereals as their source. Whole foods provide a full spectrum of folate forms that work together to support the body’s needs in a balanced way. However, with the known incidence of genetic variations that slow the activation of folic acid, many people may benefit from supplementation with the active form or a whole-food form that supplies a full spectrum of natural folates to fill the nutritional gap.   Did you know WholisticMatters is powered by Standard Process? Learn more about Standard Process’ whole food-based nutrition philosophy.   Learn More

Join Chiropractors Dr. Sarah Clarke and Dr. Gena Kadar in this inspiring conversation about building a thriving practice. Dr. Kadar discusses incorporating nutrition with Chiropractic work for improved patient outcomes, and the importance of practitioners modeling healthy lifestyles and practicing self-care. They wrap up the episode with a vision for the future of integrative medicine, and valuable advice for new practitioners building their practices.

What is Rhamnogalacturonan I (RG-I) Carrot Fiber? Rhamnogalacturonan-I, also known as RG-I, is a pectin derivative found in plant cell walls.  It has a gelatinous and flexible chemical makeup.  It is responsible for holding onto water, providing flexibility to the cell wall, and assisting in cell-to-cell adhesion, keeping the cell wall ‘loose’ but remaining intact.  It is structurally responsible for 5 to 36% of cell wall content.1  Because of these properties, RG-I has been highlighted as a unique pectin structure that can be used as a supplemental fiber to improve microbiome health and innate immunity.  Rhamnogalacturonan-I can be derived from the Capsicum annum (bell pepper) or Daucus carota (carrot).  More commonly, RG-I is sourced from carrots as they are nutrient powerhouses containing active polysaccharides that are ideal for creating RG-I fibers.  Additionally, carrots are a scalable crop group providing sustainable benefits as cover crops.2   Thereby, in addition to the novel health benefits, RG-I provides a sustainable approach to sourcing unique polysaccharide fiber. How does RG-1 Carrot Fiber support the Microbiome?  Of the benefits of RG-I carrot fiber, the most novel has been the impact on microbiome communities regulating both gastrointestinal health and immunity.  RG-I is classified as a potent prebiotic. Prebiotics are intended to ‘feed’ the gut bacteria, helping beneficial species proliferate and grow in the microbiome. Clinical studies investigating the use of RG-I derived carrot fiber found clinically significant alteration to the human gut microbiota.  Collected cultures demonstrated increases of Bacteroidetes which are responsible for the production of the short chain fatty acids (SCFA) butyrate, acetate, and propionate.  As a result of SCFA production, RG-I has been attributed to thickening of the epithelial barrier enhancing gastrointestinal pathogen defense functioning.3  In-vitro studies have demonstrated RG-I to be rapidly fermented within the colon, allowing for specific, selective stimulation of beneficial microbiota species.  Rapid fermentation of RG-I demonstrates benefits over other prebiotic fibers, including less occurrence of gas induced by SCFA production and an improved anti-inflammatory profile.3 An experimental trial conducted on 24 healthy adults found supplementation of RG-I from carrots significantly increased the abundance of multiple probiotic strains in the gastrointestinal tract, most notably SCFA-producing species such as Bacteroidetes, Bifidobacteriaceae, Anaerobutyricum  hallii, Blautia sp., and Faecalibacterium  prausnitzii.4 How RG-1 Carrot Fiber supports Gut-Lung Axis One of the unique benefits of RG-I is the immune promoting properties, more specifically, the impact on the innate immune system due to its influence on the Gut-Lung Axis.  The innate immune system is the body’s first line of defense against viruses, similar to the gut microbiota being the first line of defense against pathogenic bacteria.  The two systems are interconnected as the lung microbiota and gut microbiota crosstalk to maintain homeostasis and inhibit disease evolution from viruses.  Thereby, modulation of the gut microbiota from RG-I has been found to support the innate immune system.8  The influence on SCFA’s from RG-I supplementation has been shown to modulate innate immune cells, like neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells, and cytokines.  Additionally, there are bioactive compounds that SCFAs promote that can influence antigen-specific T-cells and B-cells supportive of the innate and adaptive immune system.2 Immune Health RG-I has been shown to possess immunomodulatory properties via three mechanisms: modulating the immune responsiveness of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) which detect Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns (PAMPs) stimulating the production of short chain fatty acids, which produce acetate, propionate, and butyrate enhancing the response of phagocytosis and natural killer cells, and modulate the secretion of cytokines, chemokines, and ROS5 A single-center, controlled, randomized, double-blind dose-response study used three doses of RG-I carrot fiber (no dose, low dose, and high dose) to investigate the reduction of severity and duration of rhinovirus. The RG-I carrot fiber group(s) had an accelerated interferon-induced response promoting the innate immune system.  Secondary outcomes found pronounced levels of CXCL10 and CXCL8 levels, indicating an enhanced anti-viral response against rhinovirus. The study attributed these findings to the presence of dendritic and macrophage cells surveying the intestinal tract that were carrying beneficial microbes from RG-I, which were then recirculated to the respiratory tract through the gut-lung axis. The results showed an improved microbiota species within the respiratory cavity making the body more resilient and adaptive to immune challenges.6 A randomized, double-blind clinical study supplemented with 300 milligrams of RG-I found significant reduction in severity ranging from twenty to thirty-three percent, with an accelerated recovery. The experimental cohort had duration to recovery rate of almost half compared with the control group.  The study found RG-I provided a protective immune response and reduced the negative impact of rhinovirus on quality of life.5 A separate study conducted on immunosuppressed mice found immunomodulatory activity in bone-marrow derived dendritic cells (BMDCs). The study found significant quantities of cytokines that modulate the innate immune system, including IL-6, TNF-a, IL-10, and Il-17, within bone marrow cultures. These findings indicate RG-I promotes the maturation of BMDCs and enhances lymphocyte-activation capacity, which allows lymphocytes to respond to antigens, or the presence of a virus.7 Clinical Takeaway In addition to the multitude of health benefits that prebiotic fiber can provide, RG-I Carrot Fiber provides a unique benefit to proliferating the gut microbiome and promoting immune health.   Did you know WholisticMatters is powered by Standard Process? Learn more about Standard Process’ whole food-based nutrition philosophy.   Learn More

In this lively conversation, Dr. Besuden, DC, CFMP, shares all of her tips, tricks and recommendations for aging optimally and gracefully. Drs. Sarah and Besuden discuss strategies for maintaining healthy habits and routines for practitioner and patient alike. This episode is full of gems including specific supplementation to fill nutrition gaps, easy-to-maintain exercise routines, and a deep dive into hormesis practices.

About this Episode Drs. Daina Parent and Ryan Bradley take a deep dive into the microbiome and it’s influence on whole body health, and cover highlights on clinical research focused on gut health. They also touch on how soil health and environmental toxins have an impact on the microbiome. Dr. Ryan Bradley is a Naturopathic Physician with a Master’s Degree in Public Health and Epidemiology. He is currently a professor and has completed 8 years of clinical research training. He leads research initiatives at the intersection between public health and integrative and complimentary medicine. Use the audio player above to listen now! And don’t forget to follow and like our podcast channel to stay up-to-date on upcoming podcast episodes. Highlights of the episode include: Gut Health as connected to global effects throughout the whole body Current research in the gut health space and how it translates into clinical practice Mind Body Medicine and connection to Gut Health SOIL HEALTH: The hope for the near future: increased public understanding of soil health and connection to gut health and overall well-being Podcast Summary 2:00 – Dr. Bradley’s Journey towards current career and passion for research; his interest in mechanisms of natural products and clinical research; clinical practice was focused on cardiometabolic disease, Diabetes, and more 5:10 – New initiatives after closing clinical practice 5 years ago – now focuses on clinical research / clinical trials; also focuses on Mentorship through National Center for Complimentary and Integrative Health, branch of NIH for Complimentary Medicine 8:30 – Importance of research for clinicians – shifts the way practitioners practice, especially in Complimentary and Integrative Medicine which has a population of clinicians thirsty for evidence of effectiveness of Complimentary and Integrative strategies, philosophy, and frameworks/protocols 11:55 – Historical Knowledge of effectiveness of Naturopathic Medicine, “the science is finally catching up to our practices”; example – gut health, dysbiosis, leaky gut syndrome; “We finally have the scientific tools to explore these concepts in greater detail.” 13:50 – Gut Health and Naturopathic Medicine – trends and changes in gut health practice; general public is paying more attention to their gut health; rapid innovation, especially with probiotics, postbiotics, prebiotics, and fibers; does the science support large doses of probiotics?; Is the practice outpacing the evidence?; What will the future of microbiome research and awareness look like? 20:40 – Gut Health as connected to global effects throughout the whole body – hormonal health, immune health, brain health; effects of environmental factors like air and water quality influence gut health 23:55 – Current research in the gut health space and how it translates into clinical practice 34:32 – NIH Grants for mentorship, gut health, mind-body practices and effects on anxiety, and more 40:40 – Mind Body Medicine and connection to Gut Health 42:15 – Will gut health continue to be at the forefront of medicine and medical research? Personalized probiotics and AI; potential natural GLP-1 agonists; increased public awareness to demand better foods, less environmental toxins in food, water, and air 49:55 – SOIL HEALTH: The hope for the near future: increased public understanding of soil health and connection to gut health and overall well-being; gut health linked to soil health, food quality, and farming practices; everything is interconnected 53:20 – Integrative Health and it’s impact on public health This podcast is sponsored by Standard Process About Standard Process – Only at SP https://youtu.be/5pmnY1nOfoU?si=MSyD04ZRu-zT9alc

About this Episode Strategies for Motivating Patients Towards Optimal Health In this enlightening episode, Dr. Sarah Clarke interviews Dr. Ryan Lazarus, author of The Essential Health Playbook and creator of The Lazarus Method. The conversation highlights Dr. Lazarus’  personal health journey and how it shaped his career and the work he’s developed over the past 20+ years. He offers inspiring and effective strategies for meeting patients where they are at; supporting their goals, values, and priorities; and offering tools to help them achieve optimal whole body health. Use the audio player above to listen now! And don’t forget to follow and like our podcast channel to stay up-to-date on upcoming podcast episodes. Highlights of the episode include: The four ways people change; finding what motivates each individual to make important health changes is the key to success Gamification as a useful wellness tool Defining priorities, values and goals Finding your true purpose and how it affects one’s health journey Unlocking greater potential with Biohacking Podcast Summary 1:20 Dr. Lazaraus describes his near death experience at 18 while playing indoor soccer that began his health journey and shaped the trajectory of his career 4:00 Digestive issues and type 1 diabetes diagnosis following the accident that destroyed his pancreas 5:30 10 years of frustration using conventional medicine to help with digestive issues and mental health support prompted him to take charge of his own health and find a better way to heal and live a healthy life 7:30 How Dr. Lazarus’ healing journey changed his career path and how he was drawn to Chiropractic Medicine 11:10 Common obstacles people face in finding healthcare; Dr. Lazarus’ role is to explain that there is a holistic evidence-based way to heal 13:20 The Lazarus Method – people change in four different ways; finding what motivates each individual to make important health changes is the key to success 19:00 Change takes time and Gamification is a useful tool– uses engaging athletic/sports language for motivational tools; sets fun micro challenges; individualized approach 25:20 Meeting people where they’re at – How to keep ourselves and patients motivated and engaged to continue to make positive changes towards better health and healthier overall lifestyle; defining priorities, values and goals 28:05 Nutrition and Diet – Ryan describes his EAT Plan (Essentials, Amount, Timing) 32:00 – Flow States, “in the zone” and the importance with long-term health 36:15 – Finding your true purpose and how it affects one’s health journey 41:00 Transition from 20-year clinical practice to writing books and focusing on The Lazarus Method 43:15 Dr. Lazaraus’ passion for Human potential – realizing what one is capable of on all levels 46:33 Supporting motivated people ready to unlock the next level of performance, achievement, and potential with Biohacking Strategies 50:00 thelazarusmethod.com offers free wellness tools; The Essential Health Playbook is his latest book This podcast is sponsored by Standard Process About Standard Process – Only at SP