
The Optimal Body
Join top-40 Physical Therapy Influencer, Doc Jen, and her Physical Therapy husband Dr. Dom, as they bring you the body tips and PT Pearls you need to help you understand your body, relieve your pains and restrictions, and answer your questions. Along with expert guests, the goal of The Optimal Body is to help you discover what optimal means in your own body.
Latest episodes

Mar 31, 2025 • 1h 5min
402 | Our Birth Story | A VBAC Success Story
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen shares her inspiring journey of having a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) for her second child, Luca. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges she faced, the importance of mindset and preparation, and the invaluable support from her midwives and partner, Dr. Dom. Dr. Jen emphasizes the significance of hydration, nutrition, and mental readiness during pregnancy and postpartum. Her story highlights the empowerment that comes from being informed and advocating for oneself, offering encouragement to women considering a VBAC. Join Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom for an insightful and heartfelt discussion on childbirth and motherhood.LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! Get Your Free Gift!Needed Discount:Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code OPTIMAL for 20% off.Jen Health Discount:It is Doc Jen's birthday month! To celebrate, Jen is inviting everyone to join her doing the Full Body High Intensity plan on Jen Health! You can get this full month plan for only $20 using code OPTIMAL at checkout. Just go HERE and sign up for the monthly membership. You get access to this plan and 11 other plans to help you start to move freely and confidently in your body. Come join us today!We think you’ll love:Jen Health Monthly DiscountFree Postpartum GuideJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelFor full show notes and resources visit: https://jen.health/podcast/402What you will hear in this episode:2:18 Dr. Jen shares her decision-making process for choosing a vaginal birth after cesarean.3:35 Dr. Jen explains how listening to other VBAC stories fueled her decision.7:12 Importance of having supportive midwives and a positive birth environment.9:06 Dr. Jen expresses her desire to avoid going past 42 weeks for delivery.12:18 Description of Dr. Jen's experience with early labor symptoms and contractions.14:14 Dr. Jen recounts the moment she realized her water broke during early labor.18:01 Details about arriving at the hospital and the disappointment of only being two centimeters dilated.20:22 Discussion on the importance of having a birth plan and necessary items for the hospital.23:28 The role of support partners in advocating for the birthing person's wishes.26:39 Details on the exciting progression of labor from two to six centimeters.29:34 Dr. Jen discusses her mindset and goals for her VBAC journey, emphasizing acceptance and preparation.31:38 Dr. Jen expresses her need for emotional support from Dr. Dom during the transition period in labor.34:19 Jen transitions to pushing after getting out of the tub, focusing on positioning for effective delivery.37:11 Dr. Dom contemplates the best position for Jen to push, considering both her wishes and the baby's needs.39:03 Jen describes the intensity of the final pushes and the support from the medical team during...

Mar 24, 2025 • 42min
401 | Solving Vertigo & Dizziness with Dr. Paige Day
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom welcome Dr. Paige, an expert in vestibular therapy. They explore the vestibular system's role in balance and motion detection, and discuss common dysfunctions like vertigo. Dr. Paige shares her journey into vestibular therapy, emphasizing the quick fixes achievable for conditions like BPPV. She highlights the importance of consulting a vestibular physical therapist for accurate diagnosis and treatment. The episode also covers vestibular migraines, stress management, and holistic approaches to therapy, providing listeners with valuable insights into maintaining vestibular health.Jen Health Membership DiscountAre there nagging aches and pains that have been preventing you from reaching your true movement potential? Unable to do some of the activities you would ideally like to because of these aches and pains? Now is the time to join the Jen Health Community where we help teach people to move freely and address the root cause of their aches and pains. This week only we have a huge discount on our Jen Health Annual Membership. As a podcast listener, we will sweeten the deal even more. Grab an extra $10 off using code OPTIMAL10 at checkout and start moving strong, mobile, and free with us today!LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! Get Your Free Gift!Dr Paige's Resources and Links:The Dizzy Doctor WebsiteDr Paige's InstagramFree Phone Consult with Dr PaigeFree Vestibular Wellness CommunityWe think you’ll love:Jen Health Membership DiscountJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelFor full Show Notes and Resources visit: https://jen.health/podcast/401What You Will Learn from Dr Paige:2:28 Dr. Paige's Interest in Vestibular SystemDr. Paige shares her journey and fascination with vestibular therapy, highlighting quick fixes for vertigo.4:54 Understanding Vestibular DysfunctionDiscussion about when to seek help for vertigo and the importance of seeing a vestibular physical therapist.6:43 Dizziness and Treatment OptionsDr. Paige advises on the importance of seeing a vestibular PT for comprehensive treatment of dizziness.9:30 Common Misdiagnoses in Vestibular DysfunctionDiscussion on the prevalence of vestibular dysfunction and common symptoms experienced by undiagnosed individuals.11:51 Holistic Approach to TreatmentDr. Paige describes her holistic methods, including whole-body movement and tailored programs for patients.14:10 Traditional vs. Holistic TreatmentComparison of traditional medical approaches to vestibular symptoms versus Dr. Paige's personalized treatment strategies.15:44 Vestibular Migraines IntroductionDr. Jen prompts Dr. Paige to explain what vestibular migraines are and their implications.18:30 Causes of Vestibular MigrainesPersonality traits and hormonal components contribute to the development of vestibular migraines; stress is a major trigger.20:06 Frequency of Vestibular Migraine EpisodesEpisodes vary in frequency; some experience multiple episodes weekly while others have them monthly.22:34 Nervous System Regulation TechniquesExamples of techniques like the 54321 method and breathing exercises to help manage symptoms.25:46 Impact of Pregnancy on DizzinessHormonal changes during pregnancy may increase dizziness; symptoms can return postpartum.30:21 Challenges in Diagnosing DizzinessVertigo is a symptom, not a diagnosis; accurate assessment is crucial for proper treatment.32:30 Consequences of Untreated BPPVDelay in treating B....

Mar 17, 2025 • 14min
400 | Should I Get an Inversion Table?
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, focus on the use of inversion tables for back pain relief. They explore the associated risks and short-term benefits of inversion therapy, emphasizing the importance of addressing the root causes of pain through active rehabilitation and lifestyle changes. The discussion encourages a holistic approach to health, combining practical advice with professional insights to promote long-term well-being.VivoBarefoot Discount:We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing VivoBareoot shoes to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "OPTIMAL20" to get 20% off your VivoBarefoot Shoes!**Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund.LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! Get Your Free Gift!We think you’ll love:Strong Healthy JointsJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelFor full show notes and resources go to: https://jen.health/podcast/400What you will learn:2:01 Inversion Tables: Worth the Risk?3:13 Description of inversion table therapy as a passive treatment for back pain and its effects.5:15 Summary of studies comparing lumbar traction's short-term benefits versus long-term effectiveness.6:16 Advice against relying solely on passive treatments like inversion tables for back pain relief.7:31 Emphasis on understanding and addressing the root causes of back pain for effective treatment.9:09 Promotion of a free e-book and course on understanding and addressing low back pain.10:34 Discussion on a study revealing limited effects of traction on back pain relief and functional improvement.11:34 Advice on seeking active treatments and avoiding excessive passive therapy for back pain.12:46 Motivation for listeners to engage in exercise and movement to achieve long-term benefits.

Mar 10, 2025 • 40min
399 | Optimizing Nutrition for Women's Health and Hormones with Lauren Papanos
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom chat with Lauren Papanos, a registered dietitian nutritionist, about nutrition and hormone health. Lauren shares her journey into the field, driven by personal experiences with hormone issues. They discuss the impact of chronic inflammation on conditions like PCOS and Hashimoto's disease, and the importance of comprehensive testing. Lauren offers practical advice on managing blood sugar levels, especially during pregnancy, and emphasizes the benefits of whole foods. The episode concludes with tips for affordable healthy eating and information on Lauren's resources for further learning.Needed Discount:Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code OPTIMAL for 20% off. LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! Get Your Free Gift!Free Week of the Jen Health Membership:Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout!Lauren's Resources and Links:Functional Fueling WebsiteLauren's InstagramLauren's YoutubeFunctional Fueling FacebookThe Strength in Hormones PodcastInflammation Harmony ProgramGrab a bonus $50 discount on Inflammation Harmony with code OPTIMALBODY at checkout!We think you’ll love:Strong Healthy Joints DiscountJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelGet the full show notes and resources at https://jen.health/podcast/399What You Will Lean from Lauren: 3:20 Lauren's Passion for NutritionLauren discusses her early interest in nutrition and hormone health stemming from personal experiences.6:29 Lauren's Hormonal IssuesLauren shares her diagnoses of PCOS, hypothalamic amenorrhea, and hypothyroidism.9:36 Root Causes of Chronic InflammationLauren explains environmental factors and dietary deficiencies contributing to chronic inflammation.11:47 High-Performing Individuals and Health IssuesThe hosts discuss the confusion faced by high-performing individuals experiencing health issues despite healthy habits.14:22 Testing and Nutrition Guidelines for PCOSLauren emphasizes the need for appropriate testing and nutrition guidelines for individuals with PCOS symptoms.15:39 The Importance of Root Cause TestingDiscusses the need for comprehensive testing beyond conventional healthcare to identify root causes of health issues.18:36 Understanding Hormonal TestingEmphasizes the significance of a complete hormone panel for accurate assessment of hormonal health.21:41 Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy....

Mar 3, 2025 • 22min
398 | Exercise for Osteoporosis
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, co-hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom explore osteoporosis, emphasizing its impact on women as they age. They advocate for a comprehensive approach to bone health that goes beyond calcium supplements to include exercise, nutrition, and professional guidance. Doctor Dom explains the importance of loading bones through high-intensity training to stimulate bone density. Doc Jen highlights the benefits of combining axial loading with strength training. They also discuss the "Lift More" program, which has shown promising results in improving bone mass density. The episode concludes with an introduction to their "Strong Healthy Joints" program.Stong Healthy Joints:Come join us in a community challenge to build strength, feel confident in your body, and get rid of those pesky joint aches and pains. We will all be starting together on Monday, March 3rd, but now is the time to sign up! For this week only, we have an early-bird discount! This is a 30-Day program that you keep for life that will help you confidently build top end strength in your body! Get the early-bird discount now and come join our huge community building strength together! As a podcast listener, grab a bonus discount using code OPTIMAL10 at checkout!VivoBarefoot Discount:We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing VivoBareoot shoes to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "OPTIMAL20" to get 20% off your VivoBarefoot Shoes!**Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund.We think you’ll love: Strong Healthy Joints Discount Jen’s Instagram Dom’s Instagram YouTube ChannelFor full show notes and resources, please visit: https://jen.health/podcast/398What You Will Learn:1:17 Significant statistics on fragility fractures due to low bone density in men and women.2:33 Limitations of Calcium Recommendations4:21 Impact of Hormonal Changes7:09 Discussion on exercise considerations for individuals with low estrogen affecting bone density.9:09 Discussion on how reduced activity contributes to osteoporosis across the lifespan.11:04 Advocacy for higher intensity exercises to improve bone density in osteoporosis patients.12:52 Discussion on the progression of exercises from heel drops to more advanced jumping.14:35 Focus on lifting techniques and the importance of increasing load for bone health.17:30 Lift More Exercise Program18:08 Improvements in bone mass density and muscle strength noted in postmenopausal women participating in the study.19:29 Key Exercises for Bone Health

Feb 24, 2025 • 49min
397 | Bunions Aren't Just Genetic | New Research with Gourgen Gevorgyan
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, delve into the importance of foot health with guest Gourgen, co-founder of My Foot Function. They discuss the benefits of barefoot shoes, emphasizing how traditional footwear can negatively impact foot function and overall movement. Gourgen shares his journey into foot health, highlighting the significance of a wide toe box and the role of toes in stabilizing the foot. The conversation underscores the importance of proper footwear, foot exercises, and the potential to improve foot health at any age.VivoBarefoot Discount:We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing VivoBareoot shoes to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "OPTIMAL20" to get 20% off your VivoBarefoot Shoes!**Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund.Stong Healthy Joints:Come join us in a community challenge to build strength, feel confident in your body, and get rid of those pesky joint aches and pains. We will all be starting together on Monday, March 3rd, but now is the time to sign up! For this week only, we have an early-bird discount! This is a 30-Day program that you keep for life that will help you confidently build top end strength in your body! Get the early-bird discount now and come join our huge community building strength together!Gourgen's Resources and Links:Sri Lanks Research StudyMy Foot Function WebsiteMy Foot Function InstagramMy Foot Function YoutubeMy Foot Function FacebookWe think you’ll love:Strong Healthy Joints DiscountJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelFor the full Show Notes and Resources visit:https://jen.health/podcast/397What You Will Learn From Gourgen:3:22 Gourgen's Journey into Foot Health00:04:40 Importance of Foot Function00:07:40 Gourgen discusses the growing demand for education on foot health and the limitations of traditional approaches.00:09:10 Benefits of Barefoot Shoes00:13:30 The speakers address concerns about transitioning to barefoot shoes for older individuals or those with pain.00:15:47 Gourgen on Improvements Across Age Groups00:16:37 Discussion on the need for studies on bunion health and the debate between genetic and environmental factors.00:18:17 Overview of studies examining the root causes of bunions, focusing on genetic predispositions and shoe impact.00:19:51 Findings that habitually barefoot populations show fewer bunion occurrences compared to those who wear shoes.00:21:27 Explanation of the choice to study barefoot populations in Sri Lanka due to their unique foot health observations.00:23:49 Results indicating that barefoot individuals have significantly lower rates of bunions compared to shoe-wearers.00:26:08 Insights gained from observing foot health in different ethnic groups and their footwear practices.00:28:07 Discussion on the improvements seen in bunion conditions through changes in footwear and foot care practices.00:31:20 Explanation of how misaligned toes can lead to various foot and body issues, emphasizing the importance of toe health.00:35:30 Clarifying the relationship between arch height and foot pain, emphasizing foot flexibility.00:39:56 Encouragement to adopt barefoot practices for better foot health.00:41:53 Discussing the sensory nerve density in feet and its impact on movement.00:43:15 How barefoot walking can improve movement efficiency and posture.

Feb 17, 2025 • 29min
396 | The Best Exercise for Longevitiy
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, co-hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, discuss the best exercises for longevity. They emphasize the importance of maintaining strength and muscle mass as we age, debunking myths about exercise restrictions for older adults. The episode highlights the benefits of strength training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in combating age-related declines in muscle mass and bone density. The hosts also provide practical tips for incorporating enjoyable and varied exercises into daily routines, encouraging listeners to stay active for improved health and longevity.Discount for the Strong Healthy Joints Challenge: Become a Jen Health VIP!Are you ready to build strength and get rid of that pesky joint pain?! We are starting a huge strength building challenge in March and NOW is the time to join! The challenge is on Early-Bird discount right now PLUS you can get an extra discount by becoming a Jen Health VIP! There is no cost to become a VIP. It's absolutely free, and all we will do is send you all our special discounts and bonuses before anyone else has access to them. You truly will be on our list of exclusive VIP's that get deals no one else will have access to! Join the Jen Health VIP list HERE and come joint us for the Strong Health Joints Challenge in March! Act quick because the discount will go away soon!Needed Discount:Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code OPTIMAL for 20% off.We think you’ll love:Strong Healthy Joints ChallengeJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelFor full Show Notes and Resources visit:https://jen.health/podcast/396What You Will Learn in this Episode:1:46 Common Misconceptions About Exercise5:26 Overview of sarcopenia and osteoporosis, highlighting muscle and bone density decline with age.7:28 Explanation of the difference between strength and power, and their impact on aging.8:22 Best Exercises for Longevity10:11 Discussion on maintaining mobility and its significance in preventing age-related issues.12:04 Incorporating Strength Training00:14:16 Detailed discussion on how HIIT improves musculoskeletal, skeletal, brain, circulatory, and respiratory health.15:49 Discusses a study showing HIIT can reverse a decade of VO2 max loss in just eight weeks.19:29 Encourages adapting exercises to individual capabilities, including support for jumping activities.20:28 Norwegian 4x4 Protocol23:39 Describes "exercise snacks," short bursts of HIIT that can significantly improve blood glucose levels.

Feb 10, 2025 • 54min
395 | How Nutrition Changes through a Woman's Lifespan with Dr. Federica Amati
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom delve into the critical role of nutrition in women's health with guest Doctor Frederica Amati, a leading nutritionist at Zoe. The discussion highlights how dietary choices impact fertility, pregnancy, and menopause. Doctor Amati emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fermented dairy, oily fish, and plant-based foods. The conversation also addresses the global fertility crisis, the benefits of the Mediterranean diet, and practical tips for maintaining nutritional health through various life stages.
LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!
Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! Get Your Free Gift!
Needed Discount:
Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code OPTIMAL for 20% off.
Free Week of the Jen Health Membership:
Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout!
Dr Federica's Resources and Links:
Dr Federica's Instagram
Dr Federica's Website
Learn More About ZOE
ZOE Science and Nutrition Podcast
We think you’ll love:
Free Week of Jen Health Membership
Jen’s Instagram
Dom’s Instagram
YouTube Channel
For Full Show Notes and Resources visit: https://jen.health/podcast/395
What You Will Learn from Dr Amati:
3:29 Doctor Ahmadi's Educational JourneyShe shares her background in public health and the importance of nutrition in chronic disease.
5:45 The Role of Nutrition in PregnancyDoctor Ahmadi emphasizes the critical impact of nutrition during pregnancy on lifelong health.
8:00 Nutritional Demands in Women's Life StagesDiscussion on the heightened nutritional needs during pregnancy and postpartum phases.
9:39 Fertility Issues in Modern SocietyExploration of the global fertility crisis and factors contributing to delayed parenthood.
12:58 Impact of Lifestyle on FertilityAnalysis of how obesity, nutritional status, and stress affect fertility in both genders.
15:22 Importance of Male FertilityHighlighting the crucial role of male health in fertility and its effects on pregnancy outcomes.
16:31 Dietary Patterns Supporting FertilityIntroduction to the Mediterranean diet as the most effective dietary pattern for enhancing fertility.
19:46 Dietary Pyramid for FertilityRevising dietary choices to prioritize plants, nuts, and seeds for better fertility outcomes.
21:53 Preconception Care ImportanceEncouragement to focus on diet and lifestyle changes before trying to conceive for better outcomes...
Visit full show notes for remaining timestamps!

Feb 3, 2025 • 20min
394 | Does a Vibration Plate Help Prevent Muscle & Bone Loss?
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, explore the benefits and drawbacks of whole body vibration plates. They discuss claims about these devices enhancing muscle gain, weight loss, and bone health, while emphasizing the need for critical evaluation of research. The conversation highlights the importance of balance and proprioception, especially as we age, and the sensory benefits of being barefoot. They caution against potential negative side effects of prolonged use and conclude that vibration plates can complement, but not replace, traditional strength training and rehabilitation exercises.
VivoBarefoot Discount:
We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing VivoBareoot shoes to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "OPTIMAL20" to get 20% off your VivoBarefoot Shoes!
**Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund.
Free Week of the Jen Health Membership:
Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout!
We think you’ll love:
Get A Free Week on Jen Health!
Jen’s Instagram
Dom’s Instagram
YouTube Channel
Get the Full Show Notes and Resources here: https://jen.health/podcast/394
What You'll Learn:
2:04 Overview of Whole Body Vibration
4:09 Exploration of how vibration affects muscle contractions and potential weight loss.
5:05 Anecdotal insights on how vibration plates may promote relaxation rather than muscle work.
6:22 Concerns about research methodologies comparing vibration plate exercises to control groups.
7:29 Critique of claims that vibration plates can improve bone health and osteoporosis.
10:02 Research findings on how vibration plates can enhance balance, especially in older adults.
Importance of Balance Training (00:11:09)Discussion on incorporating balance exercises into fitness routines to prevent falls.
12:00 Examination of studies on vibration exercise's effects on muscle and bone strength.
13:13 Discussion on the lack of long-term, well-designed studies on vibration effects.
16:26 ACL Rehabilitation Study Insights
17:21 Exploration of how vibration may improve sensory awareness after injuries, aiding in recovery.

Jan 27, 2025 • 49min
393 | The Myths and Facts of Red Light Therapy with Forrest Smith
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom engage with Forrest Smith, CEO and co-founder of Kineon, to explore the benefits of red light therapy for chronic pain management and overall health. Forrest shares his personal journey of discovering red light therapy after an MCL tear and chronic inflammation, emphasizing its scientific backing and practical applications. The discussion covers the importance of proper dosing, the differences between light therapy devices, and Kineon's mission to make this therapy accessible and affordable. The episode underscores the potential of red light therapy to complement traditional treatments and improve quality of life.
VivoBarefoot Discount:
We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing VivoBareoot shoes to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "OPTIMAL20" to get 20% off your VivoBarefoot Shoes!
**Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund.
LMNT Discount Code:
Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! Get Your Free Gift!
Free Week of the Jen Health Membership:
Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout!
Forrest's Resources and Links:
Kineon Website
Research and Science Behind Kineon
Kineon Youtube Channel
Kineon Facebook Group
Kineon Instagram
Forrest Smith Instagram
We think you’ll love:
Free Week of Jen Health Membership
Jen’s Instagram
Dom’s Instagram
YouTube Channel
View Full Show Notes and Resources at: https://jen.health/podcast/393
What You will Learn from Forrest:
3:28 Forrest discusses his personal experiences that led him to discover red light therapy.
6:47 Forrest shares how he learned about red light therapy through his mother's use.
8:09 Discussion on how chronic inflammation affects health and the potential of red light therapy.
10:24 Forrest describes the importance of correct dosing in achieving effective outcomes.
13:05 Forrest shares the importance of real-world testing to validate their models and devices.
14:39 Doc Jen questions the differences between various light therapy devices and their effectiveness.
17:20 Exploration of how chronic inflammation affects cartilage and the potential of laser therapy to restore balance.
24:06 Overview of studies supporting red light therapy's effectiveness in cartilage regeneration and healing.
30:54 Discussion on optimizing red light therapy dosing through immediate biofeedback.
32:25 The role of the lymphatic system in clearing waste from the brain and its relation to cognitive function.
36:08 Highlighting the need for a holistic approach to pain management that includes diet and movement.
39:42 Discussion on how red light therapy may positively impact fertility and related health issues.
44:42 Introduction of a new gut health product and its potential impact on overall health and conditions like MS.