I AM Well, MD Episode 46: Environmental Health with Dr. Aly Cohen
We’re joined by Dr. Aly Cohen, a nationally recognized expert in environmental health and integrative rheumatology. Dr. Cohen helps us unpack what “toxins” actually are, how everyday chemical exposures affect the immune and endocrine systems, and why vulnerable stages like pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence matter so much.
Drawing from over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Cohen explains how regulatory gaps in the U.S. allow harmful chemicals into our homes, food, water, and personal care products, and most importantly, what we can realistically do to protect ourselves and our families.
This conversation moves beyond fear and into practical, science-based prevention.
What We Cover in This Episode:
- What toxic chemicals are and why they matter for human health
- Why pregnancy and early development are critical windows of vulnerability
- Why most chemicals in the U.S. are not adequately tested for safety
- How household and personal care products can disrupt hormones and immunity
- The 4 A’s of Environmental Health Management
- How to choose safer baby products, skin care products, cosmetics, and household items
About Dr. Aly Cohen:
Dr. Aly Cohen is a board-certified rheumatologist and integrative medicine physician with national recognition for her work in environmental health, disease prevention, and medical education. She is the author of Detoxify: The Everyday Toxins Harming Your Immune System and How to Defend Against Them and co-author of Non-Toxic: Guide to Living Healthy in a Chemical World.
Dr. Cohen is the founder of TheSmartHuman.com, lectures nationally, serves as a legal medical expert for toxic exposure cases, and has received numerous awards including Top Docs NJ (2016–2025) and the Burton L. Eichler Award for Humanitarianism.
Connect with Dr. Cohen:
- Website: TheSmartHuman.com
- Social Media: @TheSmartHuman
Additional resources:
Environmental Working Group
Dr. Tanikella practices General Pediatrics, Integrative Medicine, and is an expert in Mind-Body medicine. She has traveled the world to learn more about the intersection where mind, body, health, personal beliefs, and motivation meet. She is founder and CEO of Integrative Approaches to Mastering Wellness, where she brings the wisdom of mind body medicine and the power of life coaching together to help her clients break through their glass ceilings.
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Disclaimer: The information shared on the I AM Well MD Podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. All health-related decisions should be made in consultation with your personal medical provider.
The views expressed by me are my own and do not reflect those of my guests, employers, or affiliated institutions. The views of any guest do not represent my personal or professional opinions. The content shared on this podcast is intended to inspire thoughtful reflection, not to provide medical diagnosis or treatment.
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