I recently had the pleasure to speak at the fabulous and intriguing "Kentucky Castle", a unique destination hotspot with a full biohacking facility, sauna, farm-to-table restaurant, precision medicine arm, hemp farm, horse facilities and much more. The castle is owned by one of the physicians who hosts the "Wild Health" podcast, on which I was recently a guest.  This is part one of a two part series that addresses the oft-confusing world of "taking your health into your own hands" via genetic testing, blood and biomarker tracking, sleep measurements and other forms of self-quantification. In part two, you'll get to sit in on a very interesting post-talk Q&A with myself and several of the physicians in attendance at the conference. Enjoy! **Editor's Note: Forgive the extraneous background noises. All effort was made to ensure the clearest possible sound in spite of it :) In this episode, you'll discover... -Ben's history as a bodybuilder, triathlete and his transition to his current message...9:00 Bodybuilding is a bit of a biohacking sport Ben began to take lab tests and was shocked at the results Pre-type 2 diabetes; inflammation Healthy on the outside but dying on the inside Inspired his first book Beyond Training Doesn't work primarily with athletes anymore; mainly people who want to feel good and live a long time -Some guidelines when examining your lab results...16:15 Lab results indicate an absence of disease, not necessarily one's potential for health and longevity The 11 Blood Biomarkers  -RBC (red blood cell) Magnesium...26:10 Insulin sensitivity, physical performance Different from extracellular magnesium Intracellular Diagnostics Jigsaw Health -Estradiol...29:23 Men need to be concerned with estrogen, not just women Dutch Test -Testosterone...32:08 Women should be concerned, not just men Hormones can be bound up by proteins You want 2% of your testosterone to be free -High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hsCRP)...40:22 Link between inflammation and heart attack risk Numbers will vary depending on your workout regimen -Triglyceride HGL Ratio...43:25 Is more important in determining your risk for C/V disease than total cholesterol or LDL cholesterol HGL to total cholesterol level: lower is better -Full lipid panel, and an Omega 3 index...48:15 Tells you the size of your cholesterol particles You want the particles to be "large and fluffy"; count should be low You want the Omega 3 index to be higher Highest risk zone (4% and below) = 90% chance of C/V disease -Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1)...52:10 Good for getting bulked up; not so much for longevity View life as a set of press/pull cycles You want to live long, and live an enjoyable life too Work hard, eat red meat one day; fast and yoga the next Sweet spot: 80-150 -Insulin...54:37 Dexcom G6 CBC with differential -Iron...1:00:11 Lipid peroxides result when interact with iron in the production of hydrogen peroxide (rust effect in the body) High iron levels contribute to a number of diseases and conditions -Food allergies and sensitivities...1:02:41 Ben's big beef with food allergy tests; you get a bunch of false positives Inaccuracies No double tests for each protein Cyrex Array 10 C: Ben's gold standard food allergy test Must be ordered by a doctor Viome My podcast with Naveen Jain, founder of Viome Onegevity My podcast with the founders of Onegevity Mold toxins See Cyrex Array 10 C above Micronutrients Micronutrient analysis Gut Microbiome test won't track parasites GI Effects comprehensive stool panel Genes Book: 100 Million Years of Food by Dr. Steven Le Book: Dirty Genes by Dr. Ben Lynch geneticgenie.org Kion Coffee -And much more... Resources from this episode: -Book: Biochemical Individuality by Roger Williams -Oura Ring Episode sponsors: -Kion: My personal playground for new supplement formulations. Ben Greenfield Fitness listeners receive a 10% discount off your entire order when you use discount code: BGF10. -Organifi Gold: A new take on an ancient secret: Pain-soothing herbs, incredible antioxidants, and phytonutrients all in one delicious, soothing “Golden Milk” nighttime tea! Receive a 20% discount on your entire order when you use discount code: BENG20. -Thrive Market: Organic brands you love, for less. Your favorite organic food and products. Fast and free shipping to your doorstep. Receive 25% off your order when you use my link. -WHOOP: The performance tool that is changing the way people track their fitness and optimize their training. Save $30 off your order when you use discount code: GREENFIELD Got a question for me about the 12 blood biomarkers I talked about in today's podcast? Just leave a comment below and I'll reply!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Angelo Keely is COO and Co-Founder of Kion, and a true renaissance man of many talents - including beatboxing, music, art and more. He's also a wizard at creating a healthy and robust company culture, and is building one of the most impressive and high-quality nutrition and supplement formulation companies on the face of the planet. From his near-death experience on an LSD trip to his impressive daily routine, we delve into his life and valuable experience on this podcast. During our discussion, you'll discover: -The story of Angelo's life...11:20 Hippy parents, owned a natural foods store in Wimberley, TX His dad collaborated with Whole Foods in its early days in Austin No doctors, vaccinations; all natural treatments Angelo and Ben were polar opposites in their diets as kids Minimalist approach to food and supplements Got into lots of trouble in high school Awful LSD experience at age 16 Got some gigs as a musician/beat boxer Attended St. Edwards University Centering prayer Religious studies major (although raised non-religious) Service projects to India, Central America Developed intense interest in humans, human interaction with one another -How Angelo's meeting his wife is a case study in the power of visualization...28:45 Doing an internship in France; had met her a few months prior Wrote a song that clearly described "the perfect wife" while living in France Performed the song for the first time after returning to the U.S.; she was there listening Began dating shortly after and eventually married Book: Creative Visualization -How Angelo got involved with Ben and eventually co-founded Kion...36:20 Moved to Boulder, CO to start family in 2012 Heard of Ben in 2016; Ben has a large following in Boulder Angelo was impressed with Ben's authenticity and passion more than any business acumen -A day in the life of Angelo Keely...47:30 Go to sleep at the same time kids go to sleep; need alone time (in the morning) Go to bed early; you need less sleep, then wake up really early and be productive Drink two glasses of water, then an Americano Spiritual text (recontextualizes all of life) Journaling: just show up and do it Working out: do simple things with much intensity Cold/hot shower in the winter; all cold in the summer Show up at the office around 9 am -The company culture within the dank, forbidding recesses of Kion World Headquarters...59:45 "It's a mindset about what we're doing" Everyone is passionate about health, supplements (enemas not so much) The culture must reflect the stated mission statement of Kion: Live a joyful, fulfilling and adventurous life Blend of empathy and radical honesty Every day begins with a 15 minute daily huddle; begins with 3 minutes of silence My interview with Todd White of Dry Farm Wines Monthly team adventures; yearly retreat "We're trying to live what we're saying" Building a high quality company requires hiring the right people and build it intelligently Team approach: Everyone has a unique distinct role It takes time to develop chemistry Kion is not a fly-by-night, pie-eyed idealist company; it's profitable and being built the right way -The biggest trends Angelo sees in the health and fitness industry...1:15:00 Personalization of diet Lots of "Mickey Mouse" practices Education rather than instruction or "lecturing" (Kion fasting challenge w/ accompanying guide) Big fight on the supply chain to get an awesome product If everything is in stock at a supplement company, there's a red flag -What will Angelo's life look like 5-10 years from now?...1:25:45 Making a lot more music as of late One man show: music, visuals, comedic monologue -And much more... Resources from this episode: -Kion (use code "BGF10" to save 10% sitewide) -Ben Greenfield In The Hotseat: Angelo interviews Ben -AngeloKeely.com -DandyTea coffee substitute -Book: Creative Visualization -The Christian Gratitude Journal -JOOVV light -Yoga trapeze -Fluidstance -Varidesk -Mogo Upright Stool -Salli Saddle Chair -Topo Mat -Book: Emotional Communication -My interview with Todd White of Dry Farm Wines -KionU Coach Certification Program -BenGreenfieldTri.BlogSpot.com (Ben's original blog) -Kion Fasting Guide -Ben's upcoming new book at SuperhumanRxBook.com Episode Sponsors: -Kion: My personal playground for new supplement formulations. Ben Greenfield Fitness listeners receive a 10% discount off your entire order when you use discount code: BGF10. -JOOVV: After using the Joovv for close to 2 years, it's the only light therapy device I'd ever recommend. Give it a try: you won't be disappointed. Order using my link and receive a nice bonus gift with your order! -Vuori: Activewear and athletic clothing for ultimate performance. Vuori is built to move and sweat in, yet designed with a West Coast aesthetic that transitions effortlessly into everyday life. Receive 25% off your first order when you use discount code: "ben25" -Halo Sport: Halo Sport revolutionized physical training by being the first-ever product that can increase your neuroplasticity by putting your brain into a state that neuroscientists call “hyperlearning”. The fully upgraded Halo Sport 2 was just announced and it’s pre-selling for just $279 (less than half the price of the first model) when you use code: GREENFIELD. Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for Angelo or me? Leave your comments below and one of us will reply!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Ted Achacoso attained a college degree in biology at the age of 18 and a doctor of medicine at the age of 22. He is the founding pioneer of the clinical practice of Health Optimization Medicine and Practice (HOMe/HOPe), which is the detection and correction of imbalances at the level of the metabolome. He was mentored by Thierry Hertoghe, the founding pioneer of Anti-Aging Medicine and Nutritional Medicine (Dr. Ted is double board-certified, Paris). He was mentored by William S. Yamamoto, the founding pioneer of Medical Informatics and an Artificial Intelligence researcher (Washington, DC). He was also mentored by D. Wayne Silby, the founding pioneer of Socially Responsible Investing and Finance (Washington, DC) and by three Philippine pioneers in Interventional Neuroradiology, in Neurology, and in Pharmacology/Toxicology. His representative body of work includes a book containing the first ever neural circuitry database (“connectome”) for an organism, journal articles, US patents, software, grants, and recorded interviews, webcasts, podcasts, and speaking engagements in the areas of: (1) artificial ethology, computational neuroethology, biomathematical modeling of nervous systems, and computability of consciousness, (2) medical informatics, medical decision-making, connectionist systems, and expert systems, (3) computer-assisted imaging, edge detection algorithms, and telehealth, (4) virtual group dynamics, communication, and collaboration methods (He created the first wireless groupware), (5) parallel, cluster, cloud, and distributed emergent computing, (6) predictive complex adaptive system modeling of financial time series, and (7) health optimization medicine including metabolomics, epigenetics, bioenergetics, gut microbiota, exposomics, chronobiology, and evolutionary medicine. He is based in Washington, DC, maintains a tricontinental HOMe practice (North America, Europe, Asia), and performs HOMe/HOPe lecturing and mentoring to doctors and practitioners. Dr. Ted provides international corporate consulting activities involving nutritional supplement formulation and the establishment of metabolomics, mitochondria, and microbiota laboratories. He strongly suspects that this world is an illusion projected as a hologram by the human biocrystal, and pushes to create deliberately sustainable, happy dreams instead of nightmares. Dr. Achacoso has trained, researched, and worked in many different fields: 1) Interventional neuroradiology and pharmacology in Manila; 2) Medical informatics and artificial intelligence in Washington, DC; 3) Scientific advisor to local venture and global institutional investment funds in Bethesda, MD; 4) As Founder and Chief Technology Officer of a group communication and collaboration software company in Rosslyn, VA (He created the first wireless mobile groupware); 5) As a quant trader for an incubator hedge fund in Rehoboth Beach, DE; 6) In Anti-Aging Medicine and Nutritional Medicine in Paris, Brussels, Monte Carlo. His representative body of work includes a book containing the first-ever neural circuitry database (or the first-ever “connectome”) for an organism (C. elegans), journal articles, US patents, software, grants, and recorded interviews, webcasts, and speaking engagements in the areas of: 1) Artificial ethology, computational neuroethology, biomathematical modeling of nervous systems, and computability of consciousness; 2) Medical informatics, medical decision-making, connectionist systems, and expert systems; 3) Computer assisted imaging, edge detection algorithms, and tele-health; 4) Virtual group dynamics, communication and collaboration methods including the first wireless groupware systems; 5) Parallel, cluster, cloud, and distributed emergent computing; 6) Predictive complex adaptive system modeling of financial time series. **Here are a few of my upcoming public appearances: Paleo FX: Austin, TX - 24-28 April Community Talk on Stem Cell Procedure: Charleston, SC - 29 May  Swiss Retreat and Liver Detox: 23 June - 7 July Click here to see more details about these and other upcoming events! During our discussion, you'll discover: -The homemade nootropic Dr. Ted took before the interview with Ben...8:30 Blue Cannatine Smart Troche Study on the effects of methylene blue on short term memory Trokie: a lozenge inserted between the gums and teeth (limit exposure to saliva) Venture capitalist hated it, but then wanted to invest in it because of its efficacy 1 mg nicotine, 5 mg CBD -Whether or not Dr. Ted is really the smartest physician alive...11:35 He's pretty darn close (1 in a billion) -What is Health Optimization Medicine (HOMe) and Health Optimization Practice (HOPe)...12:45 HOMe is intended for physicians; HOPe is intended for practitioners The goal is for there to be more practitioners than physicians Dr. Ted was an interventional neuroradiologist (spoke brains for a living) Retrained in Europe in nutritional medicine in 2009; fields such as epigenetics, microbiota, etc. were becoming popular in the U.S. Metabalomics: Studying the metabolites produced during different chemical processes in the body Technology allows treating actual fundamental cells, versus symptoms at the organ level HOMe represents a more sophisticated "dashboard" to examine the body Our metabolites' "golden years" are between the ages of 21-30 Separate test for hormones (ideally blood) Why you can't treat/adjust just hormones They're all in a network Causes imbalance, brain receives and gives improper signals Network perspective vs. artificial intelligence -Dr. Ted's book about artificial intelligence and "connectomes"...27:55 He was made to choose between studying the computability of consciousness and beauty Was banned by the powers that be at M.I.T. (later apologized) Now referred to as "Deep learning" (marketing is king) We're too DNA centric -The 7 "pillars" of Dr. Ted's practice...35:45 Clinical and therapeutic metabalomics: detection and correction Epigenetics: "Genes are not your destiny" Bioenergetics (mitochondria): Symbiotic relationship with our environment Ion Profile with 40 Amino Acids by Genova Diagnostics JOOVV light Trusii hydrogen-rich water Microbiota (gut immune system) 78% of your bacteria are in your gut They teach your immune system what's foreign, what's not People born via c-section are more prone to allergies, immune diseases Some c-sections, gauze is dipped in vagina, then rubbed on the head after birth Exposomics: The sum total of your exposure to your own lifestyle and environment (including in utero) Shows how your environment interacts with your genome to produce phenome (not phenotype) Detox protocols: Targeted supplementation Gut cleanup Phototoxicity (blue light isn't all bad) V-Moda Fader Earplugs Chronobiology Evolutionary medicine -The "Rolls Royce" for hacking jet lag and tips for optimizing circadian biology...59:50 Hormone balancing Melatonin Growth hormone (injected) Thyroid (level rises in the morning) Cortisol tablets Gut enzymes Thorne Biogest + SEED Probiotics One "anchor" meal that is constant between time zones Erythropoietin Portable oxygen concentrator Sleep hygiene: "Your day begins at the time you fall asleep" Treat your sleep as the first item on your list, not the last thing you do in the day Oura ring for sleep tracking (deep sleep inducing peptide) -Dr. Ted's guidance on diet...1:12:20 "Eating window" vs. "fasting window" Complete everything in one day Snowball effect (eat first and feel good, then get to work) Remove sensitive foods right away Dr. Ted's personal diet: Micro-nutrient optimized, macro-nutrient targeted Make your fattiest meal your first meal; second meal high fiber and carbs; third meal have protein Dr. Ted's morning coffee: MCT oil or powder Powdered cellulose (for fiber) Collagen fiber -And much more! Episode Sponsors: -Kion: My personal playground for new supplement formulations. Ben Greenfield Fitness listeners receive a 10% discount off your entire order when you use discount code: BGF10. -Trusii: Contains a host of anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and anti-allergy benefits. For this reason, I have decided to now make consumption of hydrogen-rich water an important part of my daily nutritional routine...and I highly recommend it! Enter code: BEN at checkout and get 30% off your order! -Four Sigmatic: I’ve been using Four Sigmatic products for awhile now and I’m impressed by the efficacies of their mushroom products. I use them. I like them. I support the mission! Receive 15% off your Four Sigmatic purchase when you use discount code: BENGREENFIELD -Birdwell Beach Britches: Quality is our Gimmick isn’t just our slogan, it’s a commitment we honor with every stitch we sew. 100% money back guarantee. Get 10% off your order, PLUS free shipping on any order over $99 when you use discount code: BENG. Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for Dr. Ted or me? Leave your comments below and one of us will reply!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My guest on today's podcast and former guest on my show "The Truth About Lectins And The Plant Paradox", Dr. Steven Gundry proposes in his new book "The Longevity Paradox: How to Die Young at a Ripe Old Age", that the “diseases of aging” we most fear are not simply a function of age; but rather, they are a byproduct of the way we have lived over the decades. In The Longevity Paradox, he maps out a new approach to aging well—one that is based on supporting the health of the “oldest” parts of us: the microorganisms that live within our bodies. He believes that - from diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s to common ailments like arthritis to our weight and the appearance of our skin, these bugs are in the driver’s seat, controlling our quality of life as we age. Dr. Gundry is a cum laude graduate of Yale University with special honors in Human Biological and Social Evolution. After graduating Alpha Omega Alpha from the Medical College of Georgia School of Medicine, Dr. Gundry completed residencies in General Surgery and Thoracic Surgery at the University of Michigan and served as a Clinical Associate at the National Institutes of Health. There, he invented devices that reverse the cell death seen in acute heart attacks; variations of these devices subsequently became the Gundry™ Retrograde Cardioplegia Cannula. It has become the world’s most widely used device of its kind to protect the heart from damage during open-heart surgery. After completing a fellowship in congenital heart surgery at The Hospital for Sick Children, Great Ormond Street, in London, Dr. Gundry was recruited as Professor and Chairman of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Loma Linda University Medical Center. There, he and his partner, Leonard Bailey, pioneered infant and pediatric heart transplantation. Together, they have performed more such transplants than any other surgeons in the world. During his tenure at Loma Linda, Dr. Gundry pioneered the field of xenotransplantation, the study of how the genes of one species react to the transplanted heart of a foreign species. He was one of the original twenty investigators of the first FDA-approved implantable left ventricular assist device (a kind of artificial heart). Dr. Gundry is also the inventor of the Gundry Ministernomy, the widely used minimally invasive approach to aortic- or mitral-valve repair, the Gundry Lateral Tunnel, a “living” tissue that can rebuild parts of the heart in children with severe congenital heart malformations; and the Skoosh™ venous cannula, the most widely used cannula in minimally invasive heart operations. One of the fathers of robotic surgery, as a consultant to Computer Motion (now Intuitive Surgical), Dr. Gundry received early FDA approval to use robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery for coronary artery-bypass and mitral-valve operations. He holds patents on devices for connecting blood vessels and coronary artery bypasses without sutures, as well as for repairing the mitral valve without the need for sutures or a heart-lung machine. He has served on the Board of Directors of the American Society of Artificial Internal Organs (ASIAO), and was a founding board member and treasurer of the International Society of Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery (ISMICS). He recently completed two successive elected terms as President of the Board of Directors of the American Heart Association, Desert Division. Dr. Gundry has been elected a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the American College of Cardiology, the American Surgical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the College of Chest Physicians. He is a member of numerous other surgical and medical societies. He is also the author of more than three hundred articles, chapters, and abstracts in peer-reviewed journals on surgical, immunology, genetic, nutrition, and lipid investigations. He has operated in more than thirty countries, including charitable missions to China, India, and Zimbabwe. Inspired by the stunning reversal of coronary artery disease in an “inoperable” patient, using a combination of dietary changes and nutriceutical supplements, in 2001, Dr. Gundry changed the path of his career. An obese, chronic “diet” failure himself, he adapted his undergraduate Yale University thesis to design a diet based on evolutionary genetic coding, which enabled him to reverse his own medical problems. In the process, he effortlessly lost 70 pounds. The equally astonishing results from following what he came to call Diet Evolution in several of his staff led Dr. Gundry to accept a position in Palm Springs where he could devote his efforts to disease reversal. No longer satisfied with repairing the damage of chronic diseases, since 2002, Dr. Gundry founded and has served as Medical Director of The International Heart and Lung Institute in Palm Springs, California, which serves patients referred from across the nation. He is also Founder and Director of The Center for Restorative Medicine, part of the Institute. Its mission is to prevent and reverse the chronic diseases of “ageing” with diet and nutriceutical interventions, using surgical intervention for heart and vascular disease as a last resort. During our discussion, you'll discover: -The myth of the Mediterranean Diet promoting longevity...11:20 "Blue Zones" is a term coined by a journalist named Dan Bruckner Dr. Gundry has spent most of his life living in a Blue Zone (Loma Linda, CA) Doesn't disagree with the premise you should follow the Mediterranean Diet, but there's more to it... "The only purpose of food is to get olive oil in your mouth" The key to the Mediterranean Diet is not whole grains and beans Book: Food & Western Disease by Staffan Lindeberg Residents of Acciaroli, Italy do not eat pasta or bread, but love lentil beans Millet, sorgum, teft do not have a hull (where most of the defense mechanisms of the plant are located) Unprocessed barley: People live a long time in spite of it, not because of it Influence of the Greek Orthodox church on the Mediterranean Diet Fasting and abstaining from animal products are observed during Lent -The missing link in the Mediterranean Diet regarding longevity...20:45 TMAO, a compound that is deleterious to the surface of blood vessels Cleveland Clinic invented a test to detect TMAO Recognized low incidence of coronary artery disease in spite of animal product consumption 3,3-Dimethyl-1-butanol Present in most olive oils, balsamic vinegars and red wines A structural analog of choline Not all TMAO is created equal The ideal Mediterranean Diet (Hint: Olive Garden got it wrong) Rich in polyphenols, olive oil and red wine More fish and eggs than meat Some type of fasting component You can mitigate a bad diet with a fast or fasting mimicking diet for 5 consecutive days Done on a quarterly basis The Carnivore Diet is a fad, fancy name for the Atkins Diet -The carbohydrate Okinawans consume that staves off inflammation and high blood sugar...27:40 ~85% of the traditional Okinawan diet is a blue or purple sweet potato 5-6% of the diet white rice (no brown rice) Remaining soy-based products and pig fat Taro and sweet potatoes are resistance starches "The more we eat for our gut microbiome, the more our gut microbiome will take care of us." Nigerians carry the highest percentage of APO E-4 gene of any people on earth Their starch is melon Very low rate of Alzheimers -Dr. Gundry's thoughts on roughage and fiber intake...35:14 Dr. Denis Burkitt went on a mission to Africa to operate on colon cancer Realized no one had colon cancer Studied their stools Eating huge amount of tubers (yams) and millet Didn't realize there was a difference between soluble and insoluble fiber Advocated for eating whole grains Ended up dying of colon cancer Naked Mole Rat Lives in tunnels in sub-saharan Africa Lives 30x longer than other rats Gut microbiome is identical of healthy 105 year old humans Eats tubers, roots and fungi Organic pumpkin puree from Amazon -The myth of the efficacy of animal protein for longevity...42:45 US Dept of Agriculture sells agricultural products (owns the food pyramid) Dr. Gary Fraser's study on animal protein Vegans live the longest The more animal protein consumed, the less the longevity You can mitigate meat intake with a vegan fast or fasting mimicking diet for 5 days consecutively Methionine/glycine ratio People who are primarily carnivorous do not historically have the highest longevity -The myth of growth hormones...49:20 Loranz people of Ecuador do not have cancer or diabetes When block IGF-1 receptor in mice, live 40% longer When give growth hormones, abolishes effect of calorie restriction Supplement with quercetin -The myth of iron intake for longevity...55:05 Iron is one of the deadliest substances Iron is dangerous for mitochondrial function Regular blood donors have longer life spans than non-donors Endurance training helps reduce iron levels Ferritin and GGT are musts for a blood test to track "internal rust" Ferritin is a great marker for inflammation Elevated level indicates potential auto-immune disease -The myth of metabolic rate...59:50 Age is akin to rate of energy consumption Carnivores run higher temperatures than herbivores; breakdown of protein generates a lot of heat Sweet spot between fitness and low metabolism: Hibernating animals can live 2-3x longer than non-hibernating animals due to reduced metabolic rate There are periods we should have less energy expenditure than others We live in constant summer, regardless of where we live in the world -The myth of saturated fat...1:05:15 Dr. Ancel Keys published the 7 Countries Study Said saturated fat was related to coronary heart disease He did not say plant fats were bad for you (although it was implied) Retired near Acciorili and ate large amounts of olive oil Did not make the connection between animal fat and animal protein The olive oil club Ben is a member of 30% of people carry APO E 4 gene Saturated fats in coconut oil, cheese increase LDL's in these people Organic fermented pu-erh tea Mucus absorbs lectins; is essential for gut health in older age -Why milk does not in fact do the body good... Most milk in the US is casein a1 milk, from holstein cows Cow milk is designed to make baby cows grow quickly (lots of IGF1) Humans are designed to grow slowly (low amounts of IGF1) Adolescents who grow quickly have higher chance of cancer in 10-20 years We're the only animal that drinks another animal's milk Ben's kids drink goat and camel milk A2Milk.com -And much more... Resources from this episode: -Book: The Longevity Paradox: How to Die Young at a Ripe Old Age -Book: The Plant Paradox: The Hidden Dangers in "Healthy" Foods That Cause Disease and Weight Gain -Book: The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner -Book: Food & Western Disease by Staffan Lindeberg -Fresh taro root from Amazon -Organic pumpkin puree from Amazon -My podcast episode on the growing epidemic of loneliness and relationships/longevity. -Thorne Quercetin phytosome -Should You Get Growth Hormone Injections (And Will GH or IGF-1 Increase Your Cancer Risk)? -Why I Eat Tapeworms & Whipworms Every Two Weeks: The Fascinating World Of Helminthic Therapy. -The olive oil club Ben is a member of -Organic fermented pu-erh tea -A2Milk.com Episode Sponsors:  -Kion: My personal playground for new supplement formulations. Ben Greenfield Fitness listeners receive a 10% discount off your entire order when you use discount code: BGF10. -Organifi Gold: A new take on an ancient secret: Pain-soothing herbs, incredible antioxidants, and phytonutrients all in one delicious, soothing “Golden Milk” nighttime tea! Receive a 20% discount on your entire order when you use discount code: BENG20. -Clearlight Saunas: You can be sure that I researched all the saunas before I bought mine and Clearlight was the one that stood out from all the rest because of their EMF and ELF Shielding and their Lifetime Warranty. Use discount code: BENGREENFIELD to get $500 off your sauna and a free bonus gift! -Zip Recruiter: As your qualified candidates roll in, we make it easy to screen & rate them, allowing you to make the best hiring decisions for your business. Try it for free when you use my link! Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for Dr. Gundry or me? Leave your comments below and one of us will reply!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I receive plenty of questions about peptides and SARMs, including: -How do peptides work? -What is the safety/side effects of peptides? -What are the best anti-aging peptides? -What are the best fat loss and muscle gain peptides? -What are the best recovery peptides? -What peptides work for cognition and neural enhancement? -How do you properly mix and administer peptides? -Do peptides need to be "cycled"? My guest on today's show, Jean-François Tremblay, comes highly recommended by former podcast guest and regenerative medicine physician Dr. Matt Cook as one of the world's leading experts on the wonderful world of peptides and SARMs. Dr. Tremblay studied Exercise Physiology, Biochemistry and Pharmacology. He has been investigating (in theory and in practice) peptides and SARMs since the 1990's and now makes peptides his main research subject. He has developed a wealth of expertise on peptides and SARMs and their practical applications in sports performance, anti-aging and health in general. During my discussion with Jean-François Tremblay, you'll discover: -The science of peptides and how they work...5:55 Amino acids linked together Growth hormone contains 191 amino acids When enough peptides link together, it becomes a protein Demistifying some of the myths surrounding peptides: They must be refrigerated at all times (only for certain peptides) Methionine bonds Most peptides are long chain, stable at room temp, More sensitive to light than heat (degradation more likely result of overexposure to light than heat) The "local effect" (BPC 157 and TB 500) -The pros and cons of various means of injecting peptides...15:15 Intra-nasal absorption is not 100%; however, what is injected has a better chance of reaching the brain Semax: Originally researched in USSR during the Cold War Russians are meticulous in their research; however, lacking in ethics Icarus documentary Researched on humans before other animals; published only after testing on animals -Peptide safety and side effects of use...21:30 Worst-case scenario of "overdosing" on peptides is that it simply doesn't work; no notable negative side effects Not the case with nootropics; you're messing with the brain's chemistry Bottom line: Don't throw caution to the wind. Be aware of proper dosages and administer correctly to the best of your knowledge -Legality and sourcing issues with peptides...32:15 99% of them come from China (even if the label says "Made in the USA") Chinese government dictates who produces what, such as peptides Chinese company released a growth hormone which was very effective, then replaced it with another (under the same name) that had negative side effects Scandinavian company was dishonest about dosage of melanotan (5 mg when advertised as 10 mg) There are only a couple of sources, albeit distributed by many different brands The bacteriostatic water included with the peptide should be crystal clear when it's added There's a reason for the high cost: equipment, repairs, etc. -Whether peptides need to be "cycled" in their use...44:00 Some, yes. It depends on the peptide Effect of BPC-157 lasts around 6 hours Effect of TB-500 lasts 10-15 days; but it's out of your system in 12 hours -Recommended anti-aging peptides...49:30 Epitalon The effects are not as immediate as peptides such as BPC-157 MOTS-c Humanan -The best peptides for fat loss...58:38 There is no "magic pill" Take care of the low hanging fruit: exercise, diet, etc. Tesamorelin (Egrifta) CJC-1295 (no dac version) -Recommended peptides for muscle gain...1:02:45 Nothing for non-competitive use Requires strict discipline and patience; marginal results at best -Jean-François' peptide regimen...1:04:51 Epitalon DSIP (affects the delta phase of sleep only) TB-500 (once a month) BPC-157 (once every couple of months) Thymus (timalin or vilon) twice a year Semax very occasionally -And much more... Resources from this episode: -Dr. Seed's Oral BPC-157 (use code BEN for 15% off ) -My first podcast with Dr. Matt Cook -My second podcast with Dr. Matt Cook -My podcast with Jay Campbell -GlobalDro -CanLab -Icarus documentary Episode Sponsors: -Kion: My personal playground for new supplement formulations. Ben Greenfield Fitness listeners receive a 10% discount off your entire order when you use discount code: BGF10.   -JOOVV: After using the Joovv for close to 2 years, it's the only light therapy device I'd ever recommend. Give it a try: you won't be disappointed. Order using my link and receive nice bonus gift with your order!   -Thrive Market: Organic brands you love, for less. Your favorite organic food and products. Fast and free shipping to your doorstep. Receive 25% off your order when you use my link!   -Birdwell Beach Britches: Quality is our Gimmick isn’t just our slogan, it’s a commitment we honor with every stitch we sew. 100% money back guarantee. Get 10% off your order, PLUS free shipping on any order over $99 when you use discount code: BENG. Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for Jean or me? Leave your comments below and one of us will reply!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the past 20 years, my guest on today's show, Dr. Peter Martone, has been trying to recommend pillows for his patients that would put their head in the correct position so that they could get a great night's sleep and wake up rested. He could not find one, and he would have patients purchase soft down pillows and stuff them under their necks. He found that a conventional pillow would loose its shape and end up on the floor. The problem is that a pillow is for your head and you can not support your head to get a great night sleep. But one day he was watching the movie “Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon” in 2000 and the two actors came out of the room after “cuddling” all night. The camera gave a quick glimpse of the room they came out of. It showed what the two actors slept on, and to his amazement it was just a thin pad for their body and a block of wood in lieu of a pillow for their head.  In that lightbulb moment, Dr. Martone invented the exact sleeping tool we discuss on today's podcast. He's one of the smartest guys I've ever talked to when it comes to sleep, so prepare to optimize your rest and recovery biomechanics like never before! During our discussion, you'll discover: -How Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon inspired Dr. Martone's invention... One of the props was a piece of wood, not as a pillow, but for their neck Peter had shoulder issues, couldn't identify the cause While camping, he used a shoe under his neck for sleeping; woke up well rested Used a shoe, and other odd objects for sleeping; shoulder and other health issues were resolved -Surprising problems caused by sleeping on one's side... 90% of Peter's patients have some type of damage to their cervical curve in the neck We lose the curve doing day to day activities, and there's nothing to repair it at night 98% of patients who lose the curve in their neck develop an unnatural curve in their lower back This eventually leads to scoliosis in the lower back The vermis portion of the brain: main function is to control the body's proprioception 80% of proprioception into the brain comes from the spinal cord The vermis atrophies due to loss of proprioception It affects the pre-frontal cortex (executive functioning) Decreasing the curve in the spine severely limits glymphatic drainage Why we toss and turn at night: Pain centers and nerve centers are very close together When you fall asleep on your side, you can only stay in that position for a short period of time Body should be in a "neutral sleeping position" Alcohol inhibits pain sensors. You stay in the same position longer, and wake up in pain OURA ring If you didn't get all that, get this: Loss of the cervical curve = degeneration of the spine. It also causes the vermis to atrophy, which negatively affects the pre-frontal cortex. Side sleeping causes pain and discomfort, which in turn affects the quality of our sleep. The advantages of sleeping on the back versus the side or stomach... Use a pillow for the neck rather than the head Restore the cervical curve and decrease lumbar tension -How to train yourself to sleep on your back... Just start on your back 1-2 hours per night will be enough to help restore the cervical curve in your neck Sleep wedge pillow: 5-10 degree angle, should go to the base of your spine Gravity beds on Amazon The podcast that discusses Gravity beds The body will eventually be able to go through the night on your back Total 2-3 month transition 650 down pillow Sleeping on your back, you distribute your body weight over the greatest amount of space -The little-known hack called "Remembering" that may help with sleep problems... Peter struggled to sleep due to numerous things he was thinking about Needed to be "in control" of something Visualized people sitting in a specific seat after giving a talk; he went right to sleep Focus on something, but don't think about it You can't think yourself to sleep; you have to remember yourself to sleep Dreams are how the mind categorizes the day's events The further back in time you can remember, the more efficacious this technique will be -Ways to control your core temperature while sleeping... Allostatic load: Hierarchy of needs in bodily functions (heart pumping vs. growing fingernails) Your body cares more about your core temperature than even the immune system We get sick because there's a finite amount of energy our body can distribute Maintaining the body's core temperature maintains the allostatic load in our entire body Keep your core as warm as possible; keep hands, feet and head exposed People like to sleep on their side so they can curl up, feel protected Use a weighted blanket for a similar effect "Head garage" Place a pillow over your head, just above the nose -More little-known sleep hacks... First 2 hours of the day are the most productive and alert The story of Edison's balls... Write things down, then go to sleep. You won't remember when you wake up The Pilot's Pen Think about "thinking about nothing" CBD Oil -And Much More... Resources from this episode: -Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon movie -The Neck Nest: use code GREENFIELD to get $20 off plus a FREE custom pillow case and Dr. Sleep Right's "30 Day Sleep Quest" program  -My Facebook Live with Peter Martone: How & Why To Sleep On Your Back  -Gravity beds on Amazon -Sleep wedge pillow -650 down pillow -DREEM headband for monitoring sleep  -Weighted blanket -Pilot's Pen (lit pen for nighttime writing) -Deep Sleep Decoded: Everything You Need To Know To Increase Your Deep Sleep Percentages. -GetPocket app Episode Sponsors: -Kion: My personal playground for new supplement formulations. Ben Greenfield Fitness listeners receive a 10% discount off your entire order when you use discount code: BGF10. -Organifi Gold: A new take on an ancient secret: Pain-soothing herbs, incredible antioxidants, and phytonutrients all in one delicious, soothing “Golden Milk” nighttime tea! Receive a 20% discount on your entire order when you use discount code: BENG20. -ButcherBox: Delivers healthy 100% grass-fed and finished beef, free-range organic chicken, and heritage breed pork directly to your door on a monthly basis. All their products are humanely raised and NEVER given antibiotics or hormones. New subscribers will receive 2 LBS of FREE wild caught Alaskan salmon + $20 OFF their first box by going to butcherbox.com/ben -Pso Rite:Built for getting to the really important Psoas muscle but awesome everywhere else in your body and really easy to use and control the pressure yourself. Receive a 10% discount when you use discount code: BEN10 Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for Peter or me? Leave your comments below and one of us will reply!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the recent A4M conference in Vegas, I ran into intriguing research from Dr. Barrie Tan, a scientist with a Ph.D in Chemistry and Biochemistry. For the last 35 years, Barrie has immersed himself in the world of Vitamin E (particularly from annatto) and is considered one of the world’s foremost experts credited with discovering a molecule called "tocotrienol" from three major natural sources: -Palm: from his native Malaysia... -Rice: at the invitation of the Prince of Thailand... -Annatto: chance finding while in Ecuador searching for lutein... It turned out that palm and rice lacked the potency as they contain too much tocopherol, so Barrie moved his research interest away briefly from tocotrienol, when by serendipity he found the best-in-class tocotrienol in the annatto plant from the Amazon. Since then, Barrie’s relationship with annatto has spanned 20 years. Barrie has worked with the US Armed Forces on using tocotrienol on “radiation countermeasures” and pioneered the science behind the annatto working with the leading scientists in the world to prove the multiple benefits of tocotrienol. Meanwhile, everyone (lay folk and nutritionist) is languishing with the lack-luster non-performing tocopherol, which Barrie calls the“wrong way to E.” Most tocopherol trials failed and did not deliver. But in multiple clinical trials spanning chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, osteopenia, and inflammation, tocotrienol from annatto has proven clinical benefits. Barrie is currently working on multiple cancer trials after preliminary success with end-stage patients. This is because not all forms of Vitamin E are created equal... ...Vitamin E is not a single nutrient, but rather a complex made up of 8 distinct compounds: 4 tocopherols and 4 tocotrienols. These components have slightly different chemical structures, and these differences impart unique properties that influence their biochemical functions and their effects in the body. Most conventional supplements are typically rich in tocopherols—alpha-tocopherol, in particular—but the tocotrienol fractions have unique effects across a variety of tissues that make them desirable to supplement on their own, without tocopherols. Tocotrienols, especially delta-tocotrienol as sourced from the annatto plant (bixa orellana), have shown impressive effects in supporting overall health. Tocotrienols are associated with significantly positive effects on cardiovascular health, particularly with regard to influencing healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels. They may also be beneficial for a healthy inflammatory response, an important asset since chronic inflammation is a factor in damage to the cardiovascular system. Having a positive influence on lipids (fats in the blood), tocotrienols may be beneficial for those with a buildup of fat in the liver, as well as those who need help managing blood sugar and insulin levels. Clinical research also suggests tocotrienols may be a valuable addition to the supplement regimens of those who need nutritional support for strong, healthy bones. Here is a recent remark of Jonathan Lizotte, Designs for Health Founder and Board Chairman: “The health benefits realized by annatto tocotrienol go beyond that of any other nutrient I know. It’s the one supplement I would want with me if I were stranded on a desert island! This is a change for me as after 35 years in this industry, my top desert island supplements have switched between magnesium and fish oil and now it stands firmly as annatto tocotrienol alone. A minimum of 150 mg per day is a must for every adult alive.” Apart from tocotrienol, Barrie discovered and has extracted the first-in-class geranylgeraniol (GG), also from the annatto plant. GG has benefits as 1) testosterone and progesterone booster; 2) pain alleviation and; 3) sarcopenia, myopathy and muscle building from this endogenous nutrient. GG is the last common step between plant and mammal (has huge implications), and may possibly be the last frontier in anti-aging nutrients. Here are Dr. Tan’s two anti-aging bottom-line nutrients: tocotrienol (exogenous) will work from outside-in, and geranylgeraniol (endogenous) will work from inside-out. During our discussion, you'll discover: -How Dr. Tan discovered Annatto and became interested in Vitamin E...9:05 Began while an assistant prof at U of Mass in Amherst Palm oil in his native Malaysia is orange; is bleached out when it's processed Received grant from Malaysian government to research Research process on palm oil: Remove all fats and oil Remove all kerosene colors (orange) 25% of what was left was alpha-tocopherol, the most common variant of Vitamin E Remainder was tocotrienol Led to research on different forms of lung cancer (stopped soon after) Prince of Thailand hired him to research Buddhists don't like anything mitochondrial related Wanted plant-derived, not animal-derived research Most beneficial results came from rice bran oil (contained tocotrienol) Research funding slowed due to a slow economy in 1987 Needed a break in 1998 from studying tocotrienol; this led to studying treating macular degeneration Vitamin E is made up 8 different compounds 4 of them are tocopherols; 4 are tocotrienols The most common are tocopherols, particularly alpha-tocopherols Tocotrienols are less common, and is the locus of Dr. Tan's research Research on the efficacy of Vitamin E as it pertains to exercise was primarily done on tocopherols Vitamin E was discovered in 1922 at Berkeley Was extracted from spinach Assisted in bringing fetus to full-term Alpha-tocopherol is the "currency" of Vitamin E; all other strains (delta, gamma tocopherol) is converted into alpha during processing Even "all-natural" alpha-tocopherol is partly synthetic How to undo the damage from an alpha-tocopherol heavy supplement: Best thing is to stop taking alpha-tocopherol supplement Ideal intake of alpha-tocopherol is 15 mg per day, derived from natural foods If you didn't get all that, get this... A Vitamin E supplement is not derived from what we would find in nature. It is only a few strands of tocopherol, mostly alpha-tocopherol. The original use of alpha-tocopherol has long outlived its purpose. Dr. Tan advocates for the other strands, particularly tocotrienols for humans to derive the full benefits of Vitamin E. -The major differences between alpha-tocopherols and tocotrienols...30:55 Tri = 3; E = double bond Tocopherol has a head with an OH group; tail is saturated Tocotrienol tail has 3 double bonds, so it is unsaturated; head is smaller than tocopherol Lipid antioxidants is the low-hanging fruit for our body to be oxidized Astaxanthin is a powerful singlet antioxidant (efficacious in an environment that is oxygen-deficient) >90% of antioxidants in the phospholipid cells are Vitamin E molecules Remaining ~10% are hydro carbon caratonoids Beta carotene and and lycopene contain nothing else than hydrogen and carbon 1995 study by Dr. Lester Packer of UC Berkeley: Used electron-resonance spectroscopy to compare alpha-tocopherol and tocotrienol Concluded that both capture free radicals, to protect the lipid from oxidation However, tocotrienol is 50 times more effective in protecting the cell Comparison: Tocopherol is like municipal police within a small jurisdiction; tocotrienol is like a state trooper with far larger jurisdiction Tocotrienol recruits to cancer cells 10X more than tocopherol Critics say that only alpha-tocopherol is found in the blood; therefore all advocacy for tocotrienol is moot Only alpha-tocopherol has a "transport protein", which chaperones a particular molecule to a site of action The transport protein ensures the conservation of alpha-tocopherol (which is why supplementation is bad news) -Dr. Tan's discovery of the amazing Annatto plant while living in South America...43:20 Went to find lutein and zeaxanthin Discovered the Annatto while searching for marigold flowers in Brazil It was nicknamed the "lipstick plant" due to its intense red color on the inside South Americans called it "achuite"; is used as a food coloring Dr. Tan recognized the Annatto to be a caratenoid: Carotene in nature has to be protected by something due to its instability (plants changing color in the spring) Because the Annatto did not change color, he realized it was a potentially powerful antioxidant Biggest surprise of his research: Did not contain polyphenols, nor any type of tocopherol. It contained primarily delta-tocotrienol, which had been shown to be the most potent form of Vitamin E. The plant is naturally free of any type of tocopherol -How the Annatto plant is used to treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)...52:30 NAFLD is the new name for "metabolic syndrome" 20% of youth, and 40% of adults in America are obese 3 of 5 risk markers: Elevated triglycerides Reduced HDL Increased weight circumference 80-100 million Americans have NAFLD in some form The liver is very intolerant of fat Symptoms resemble those of alcoholics, hence the name "non-alcoholic" Notable data from Dr. Tan's study: Gave people 600 mg of tocotrienol Vitamin E; 300 mg twice daily 70 patients; double blind; placebo controlled Did at the beginning, 3 months after, 6 months after 3 months: lost average 10 pounds 6 months: lost average 17 pounds Waist circumference dropped 3 cm Use caution when purchasing products using the words "liver support" in its packaging -The other compound Dr. Tan found in the Annatto plant in addition to tocotrienols...1:03:10 GG: geraniol geranial It's an endogenous nutrient, naturally produced by the human body Helps with the synthesis of testosterone Older folks take it, not for the sex drive, but to have zest for life Required for the synthesis of caratenoid GG is a prerequisite for the synthesis of CoQ10 GG is currently in development; not currently on the market Its use as a pain management tool is complimentary, but not similar to, CBD -And much more! Resources from this episode: -Designs For Health Annatto-E -Book: Tocotrienols: Vitamin E Beyond Tocopherols -Book (edition 2): Tocotrienols: Vitamin E Beyond Tocopherols, Second Edition -Article: Annatto: Delivering tocotrienols from Amazonia -Article: Vitamin E: A closer look at tocotrienols Episode Sponsors: -Kion: My personal playground for new supplement formulations. Ben Greenfield Fitness listeners receive a 10% discount off your entire order when you use discount code: BGF10. -Trusii: Contains a host of anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and anti-allergy benefits. For this reason, I have decided to now make consumption of hydrogen-rich water an important part of my daily nutritional routine...and I highly recommend it! Save 30% off your order when you use discount code: BEN -Four Sigmatic: I’ve been using Four Sigmatic products for awhile now and I’m impressed by the efficacies of their mushroom products. I use them. I like them. I support the mission! Receive 15% off your Four Sigmatic purchase when you use discount code: BENGREENFIELD -Harry's Razors: Try the shaving company that’s fixing shaving. Get a $13 value trial set that comes with everything you need for a close, comfortable shave when you go to harrys.com/greenfield Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for Barrie or me? Leave your comments below and one of us will reply!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's podcast, I am joined by my friends Kyle Thiermann, Chris Ryan and Mark Healey for witty banter, philosophizing, and intellectually stimulating conversation straight from the island of Hawaii, where we - along with several others mentioned in this podcast episode, such as Dr. Peter Attia, Kyle Kingsbury and Hawaii hunting guide Justin Lee - took a break from hunting, hiking, spearfishing and dressing meat to gather round the podcasting mics. In this conversation, you'll hear... -Recap of the trip...6:47 Chris was a last minute substitute Primal surroundings: goat head in the back of the pickup They were all dropped off by helicopter on various spots on the Big Island Ben engaged in spearfishing; caught Hawaiian lobster, opi'i fish Impossible to replicate their meals in a restaurant -Ben is asked about consuming energy bars while facing dehydration...12:17 If you're in an extreme dehydration situation, you're probably starving to death, so don't throw them out They could potentially be used as a water filter because they're so thick Coffee and beer don't actually dehydrate you Energy bars have moisture in them Depends on salt content, moisture level, etc. -How ranchers on the island of Kaho'olawe used goats to prevent sharks from attacking their herd...14:05 Sharks would attack as they were loaded onto ships for transport Ranchers pushed a herd of goats tied to each other off a cliff The cattle was transported while the sharks feasted on the goats -Discussion about the sustainability of humans hunting their own meat in the modern world...15:30 Hunting is necessary in Hawai'i for sustainability of the land It's not cheaper when you factor in ammo, time spent hunting, obtaining permits, etc. Large amounts of money from hunting is invested into environmental sustainability Eradication vs. management Killing an animal is a deeply personal experience Everyone who eats meat should hunt at least once We are what we eat: cruelty, apathy, torture, etc. -How do our thoughts shape our health?... Book: The Biology of Belief by Dr. Bruce Lipton Book: Mind to Matter by Dr. Dawson Church Epigenetics: Behavior of parents/ancestors affects their children's behavior and instincts Do humans have instincts? Going for the nipple Fear of snakes "Comparing notes" after a hunt separated humans from other animals Coordinated hunting -Our understanding of human history as it pertains to resilience toward stress... Research suggests we become more sensitive to stress rather than more resilient Chronic stressors (business responsibilities) our ancestors didn't deal with Experiencing stress without realizing it, or thinking you're relaxed Practice makes automatic Difference between stress and excitement Alpha vs. beta brain waves Alpha: what you experience in "the flow"; familiar, happy, focused Beta: Higher level of excitement; less predictability Parasympathetic vs. sympathetic nervous system Sympathetic: fight and flight nervous system Parasympathetic: rest and digestive nervous system Vagus nerve feeds into the sinoatrial node of the heart You want high heart rate variability (HRV) Vagus nerve is operating the parasympathetic system properly Meditating, chanting, cold water assist with maintaining high HRV -How stress affects rigor mortis (in hunted game) and cramping Deer reach rigor mortis in 20 minutes when corralled (stressed) and over an hour when killed in the wild You cramp in stressful situations while exercising due to calcium release Sour, spicy taste overrides neuronal reflex Golgi tendon organ limits the contraction, but is overridden by neuronal reflex Other animals don't have this, and put far more stress on their muscles When mom lifts a car to save the baby, the brain, because of extreme stress, overrides the golgi tendon organ Brain over brawn: why humans have the golgi tendon organ and other animals don't -The evolving understanding of convenience vs. an appreciation of our history... Infant formula: no colostrum, fatty acid, Breast milk is a fatty, highly addictive food; you'd be obese if you drank it all your life The microbiome is a gift to the environmental movement Your surroundings impact your gut health -Is bottled water really cleaner and safer than tap water?... FDA treats bottled water as a food product; tap water is treated as water, so it's tested far more often Chlorine, fluoride is in the tap water Bottled water comes from a filtered source -Why Hawai'i is so freaking amazing... Hawai'i had cattle ranchers before California Beach as well as mountain culture Cultural holocaust: Christian missionaries Hawaiian language stayed alive in the cattle ranchers: It was more functional Perhaps reflective of the number of colors, sights and scents in Hawai'i Akin to why podcasts are popular: you can break down concepts you can't on CNN -How Mark Healy narrowly escaped death while surfing in Fiji... Grew up on North Shore of Oahu; got noticed by important surfer dudes Ended up going to Fiji for his first professional trip at age 14; had visualized Fiji for years Was in one of the most iconic surfing photos in history -Is Nature really the violent, nasty, brutish force we're led to believe it is?... Hobbes: Everything eats life Things that appear to be important are not in evolutionary terms Human chin - where two bones come together An arrow is a much better way to die than dying in nature We speak of death as though it's not going to happen Non-Western cultures celebrate death Perhaps explains animosity surrounding hunting -Differing perspectives on how we relate our life experiences to others... Narrative: knowing which dots to connect, and what to leave out Being present and in the moment vs. on auto-pilot Writing the story before it happens Specificity is key. Too much information is overwhelming, prevents people from taking action (for example, charity donations) -The role of fire and water in the history of human evolution... Source of food, amusement, protection, comfort Movement of fire is reflected in the nature of human consciousness They can alter landscapes, be very destructive Large swaths of the Amazon have been cleared by fire Podcasts around a fire never work well Water is the greatest source of "awe" that we know of -Perceived scarcity vs. real scarcity... People with nothing live as though they have everything. People with everything live as though there's not enough Perspective, born of experience, helps to understand the disparity between real and perceived scarcity We spend money to isolate ourselves from others as soon as we get it Inconvenience puts you in touch with other people (hitch-hiking, taking the bus) -Mark describes his business, Healy Water Ops... Many of the clients are very wealthy and successful in business and life They know a red herring when they see or hear it They enjoy having Mark run the show, tell them what to do; it allows them to relax for a bit -Running a business, unschooling, and why we need to restore boredom in our culture... Treat your business like a big dog; assert dominance We don't have boredom anymore with social media, smartphones, etc. Silence often precedes a maturation in a relationship Learn how to hunt without a guide; self-taught Allow kids to work out conflict on their own Preventive medicine -And much more. Resources From this Episode: -Book: The Biology of Belief by Dr. Bruce Lipton -Book: Mind to Matter by Dr. Dawson Church -Kion Energy Bars -Kion Coffee -Podcast: 32 Ways to Stimulate Your Vagus Nerve, Fine-Tune Your Nervous System & Self-Hack Your Hormones -Article: The History of Hawaiian Cowboys -About the Hawaiian Language -Book: Ni'ihau: The Last Hawaiian Island Episode Sponsors: -Kion: My personal playground for new supplement formulations. Ben Greenfield Fitness listeners receive a 10% discount off your entire order when you use discount code: BGF10. -Organifi Gold: A new take on an ancient secret: Pain-soothing herbs, incredible antioxidants, and phytonutrients all in one delicious, soothing “Golden Milk” nighttime tea! Receive a 20% discount on your entire order when you use discount code: BENG20. -Pura Thrive: Combines pure ingredients in targeted dosages through a superior delivery mechanism that is unrivaled by any other supplement on the market today. Get 15% off a bottle of the Keto Balance when you order using my link. -Birdwell Beach Britches: Quality is our Gimmick isn’t just our slogan, it’s a commitment we honor with every stitch we sew. 100% money back guarantee. Get 10% off your order PLUS free shipping on any order over $99 when you use discount code: BENG.   Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for this podcast episode? Leave your comments below and I'll reply!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Outer order contributes to inner calm. And for most of us, a rigid, one-size-fits-all solution doesn't work. The fact is, when we tailor our approach to suit our own particular challenges and habits, we're then able to create the order that will make our lives happier, healthier, more productive, and more creative. My guest on today's show - Gretchen Rubin - has found that getting control of our stuff makes us feel more in control of our lives. By getting rid of things we don't use, don't need, or don't love, we free our minds (and our shelves) for what we truly value. With a sense of fun, and a clear idea of what's realistic for most people, Gretchen suggests dozens of manageable steps for creating a more serene, orderly environment—one that helps us to create the lives we want. Gretchen is the author of several books, including the blockbuster New York Times bestsellers: Better Than Before: A Day by Day Journal The Happiness Project Happier at Home And most recently: Outer Order, Inner Calm: Declutter and Organize to Make More Room for Happiness. She has an enormous readership, both in print and online, and her books have sold more than three million copies worldwide, in more than thirty languages. She makes frequent TV appearances and is in much demand as a speaker. On her weekly podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, she discusses good habits and happiness with her sister Elizabeth Craft. Rubin started her career in law and was clerking for Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor when she realized she wanted to be a writer. She lives in New York City with her husband and two daughters. During our discussion, you'll discover: -What inspired Gretchen to write her book...7:40 Began with The Happiness Project (link) Disproportinate connection between outer order and inner calm (clutter blind) Getting control of our "stuff" makes us feel in control of our lives Empowers you to tackle the big projects we might otherwise avoid -If there has been scientific research to substantiate Gretchen's findings...9:00 Yes, but there's a problem: People want to know what's "best" way to clear clutter, when to do certain tasks People are different; they have strengths where others have weaknesses Some people thrive in a little bit of clutter No one size fits all approach -The criteria one can use to decide what goes and what stays...11:15 "Don't get organized"; Start by getting rid of things Marie Kondo's guidance (does this spark joy?) is slightly lofty in its aspirations Three questions to ask: Do I need this? Do I love this? Do I (or will I) use this? Be realistic about what "someday" means in the context of if and when you'll use something Ask yourself, "Have I thought about getting rid of this more than 3 times?" We often overestimate what we can do in a short time, and underestimate what we can do in a longer period of time -Whether decluttering is the same as minimalism...18:20 Minimalism as we know it is a bit extreme in Gretchen's view There are simplicity lovers and abundance lovers It all goes back to there's no one size fits all approach -How to mentally "let go" of things...20:25 The "fantasy self" Be honest with yourself: will you really use that thing? It frees up mental guilt, as well as space for other goals and desires Nostalgia, past self The best way to clear clutter is to not buy stuff in the first place Have a box of clutter, put a date on it, then throw it away after one year without looking inside it Imagine someone else enjoying the stuff Give away or recycle when possible "You created the donation to the landfill when you bought it" "Store it at the store" -Best practices in shopping online and offline to avoid unnecessary clutter...30:07 There are under buyers and over buyers Always shop as a guest; helps cut down on impulse buying Unsubscribe to all promotional newsletters Don't subscribe in the first place Force yourself to hold things in your arms whenever possible Break the impulse by intentionally making things inconvenient Don't touch, don't taste Book: Why We Buy Set limits and check with a partner (spouses) before purchasing Make lists -What a "clutter magnet" is, and why it's important...39:25 Identify the spot where clutter tends to accumulate; make a point to keep it clean every day It's easier to maintain once you take it back to "clear" It will spark joy -How to train children to declutter their personal spaces...43:15 Don't think of yourself as the potter who's molding the clay Help them to be honest about what they need, or use Everything sparks joy for children -Whether or not it's important to make your bed every morning...48:00 Establishing a bit of order in the environment is a morale boost Your bed is much closer to you than a chair; you may feel in better order Christian Gratitude Journal -Whether or not it's wise to find others to do your decluttering for you...53:25 Difficult due to the personal nature of your own stuff Maybe to help stay on task, help with the heavy lifting If you have to ask if it looks good, it probably doesn't -And much more! Resources from this episode: -Book: "Outer Order, Inner Calm: Declutter and Organize to Make More Room for Happiness" by Gretchen Rubin -Book: Why We Buy -Book: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo  Episode Sponsors: -Kion:  My personal playground for new supplement formulations. Ben Greenfield Fitness listeners receive a 10% discount off your entire order when you use discount “bgf10”. https://getkion.com  -JOOVV: After using the Joovv for close to 2 years, it's the only light therapy device I'd ever recommend. Give it a try: you won't be disappointed. Order using my link and receive nice bonus gift with your order! joovv.com/ben Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for Gretchen or me? Leave your comments below and one of us will reply!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I recently posted the following to my newsletter weekly roundup: "I only did two workouts this week and was sore as hell. You can view both my workouts in .pdf format by clicking here for Workout 1 and clicking here for Workout 2. The workouts were supplied to me by the wicked smart guys over at Neu.fit and I performed them while wearing the NEUBIE, which is NeuFit’s patent-pending electro-stimulation device. NEUBIE is an acronym for “NEURO-BIO-ELECTRIC STIMULATOR.” The NEUBIE can find neurological deficits in the human body with incredible precision, and has two main benefits – 1) it provides direct current (DC), and 2) it matches the signals the nervous system already sends naturally on its own. Using DC is important because it has numerous, positive biological effects. DC fields accelerate the body’s own physiological processes of healing, repair, and regeneration. Although this has been known for a long time, most devices out there are alternating current (AC). These devices are cheaper and easier to engineer, and most people don’t know the difference. Unfortunately, they don’t have anywhere near the effect at the cellular level. The NEUBIE is admittedly expensive but incredible for rehab or for training. It now holds a hallowed place in my gym. You can contact NEUFit here and mention my name for $1000 off your purchase, or you can travel to Austin, Texas to have these guys work on injuries or re-train your muscles in their gym. Ask for Chaz or Garrett if you call these folks." Here are a few video demos of me using this very unique electrical muscle stimulation device: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZ3rlCw5o50 https://www.facebook.com/BGFitness/videos/im-here-with-the-folks-at-neufit-neufitben-trying-out-this-high-intensity-leg-wo/10157149029659179/ Known as "The Health Engineer," my guest on today's show Garrett Salpeter has taken his training in Engineering and Neuroscience and used it to create NeuFit. By combining next-generation technology with protocols from physical therapy and functional neurology, NeuFit helps people tap into the power of their neurology. For most people, that leads to improved function and a quicker recovery from an injury/surgery or reaching fitness goals faster than they ever thought possible. For a few, this work has even meant being able to get out of a wheelchair and walk again. Now practitioners all over the country are adding the technology into their medical, physical therapy, and fitness practices, and Garrett is passionate about teaching NeuFit to them so that this work can impact as many lives as possible. During our discussion, you'll discover: -What exactly is a "NEUBIE" and some history behind Garrett's business...7:50 A NEUBIE is a Neuro Bioelectric stimulator NEU Fit speaks to Garrett's conviction that if we upgrade our nervous systems, it has many positive consequences in our lives Why NHL. Player Duncan Keith Calls Himself a Biohacker -How the NEUBIE is different from other EMS devices...11:15 Direct current rather than alternating current Better for regeneration and healing in the body The Body Electric by Dr. Robert Becker  Focused on sensory (afferent) rather than muscle contraction (efferent) "Russian Current" is a particular wave form based on tests conducted in the 1980's, in Russia Less motor output, more sensory input Neuro muscular reeducation Being able to move through the contraction expedites the healing process -Ben and Garrett's thoughts on suppressing Heart Rate Variability (HRV) during the stimulation, and the resultant high HRV after...24:00 You want to stress the body, then let it recover and super compensate SAID Principle: Specific Adaptation to an Imposed Demand You need real time feedback Suppressed HRV during most intense workout is ideal Auto regulating training based on the nervous system -A scanning procedure that allows you to figure out which muscles need the most work...28:40 -What a typical rehab program looks like, and what to expect in terms of sessions and results...32:08 Address the dysfunction, not the symptom Active treatments; not lying down Reincorporating the movement patterns Creating other feedback to the brain; reduces threat response Go higher on the current, sometimes in the same session -How to use the NEUBIE for a full body workout...35:00 You gain more recruitment with less external load and less strain on the joints Allows to train without pain, makes exercise safer Simple bodyweight movements: bands, joint movements Progress to heavier weights, kettle bells -Why you're so sore after using the NEUBIE; if and when you should use it while you're sore...38:08 Most often used by professionals, under professional supervision Body builders are pleased with the results after just a few sets vs. a long workout in the gym Not required to be sore to build strength Stimulate yourself into a depressed state; when recovered, do it again Typical schedule: 2x/week, sometimes multiple daily in extreme cases -How the device can be used for neurological issues...43:30 Book: The Wahl's Protocol MS patient experienced very positive results after 2 days working with Garrett Had enough muscle control to lift legs, tie shoes Took several steps holding her husband's hand TBI and concussions: Woman with TBI, making slow progress for 7 years; made remarkable progress with the neubie -How easy is it for a lay person to obtain and use the neubie...50:15 Recommended to work with a trained professional, preferably in a clinic Find a directory of therapists who use the NEUBIE at neu.fit Not often covered by insurance You can own one with doctor's approval (FDA covered device) Packages designed for clinics as well as for individuals -And much more Resources from this episode: -The NEUBIE (you can contact NEUFit here and mention my name for $1000 off your purchase) -Why NHL Player Duncan Keith Calls Himself a Biohacker -The Body Electric by Dr. Robert Becker -Oura ring -NatureBeat HRV app -Viiiva HR Monitor -The Wahl's Protocol book -My podcast with Terry Wahls Episode Sponsors: -Kion:  My personal playground for new supplement formulations. Ben Greenfield Fitness listeners receive a 10% discount off your entire order when you use discount “bgf10”. https://getkion.com  -Organifi Green Juice: Now you can get all your healthy superfoods in one glass...with No Shopping, No Blending, No Juicing, and No Cleanup. Use discount code “beng20” at checkout and get a 20% discount on your entire order! organifi.com/ben -Birdwell Beach Britches: Quality is our Gimmick isn’t just our slogan, it’s a commitment we honor with every stitch we sew. 100% money back guarantee. Get 10% off your order when you use discount code “BenG” PLUS free shipping on any order over $99.   Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for Garrett or me? Leave your comments below and one of us will reply!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.