The Optimal Body

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen, doctor of physical therapy, 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, birth preparation exercise, 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 to empower optimal women's health.LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Stay hydrated and energized with LMNT electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and magnesium for brain and body. Get a free gift with every purchase and try new flavors! Get your Free Gift now!Needed Discount:Jen trusted Needed Supplements for fertility, pregnancy, and beyond! Support men and women’s health with vitamins, Omega-3, and more. Used by 6,000+ pros. Use code OPTIMAL for 20% off at checkout!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/402 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom welcome Dr. Paige, doctor of physical therapy, 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 when dealing with vertigo and dizziness. The episode also covers vestibular migraines, stress management, and holistic approaches to therapy, providing listeners with valuable insights, exercise, and health tips for maintaining vestibular health. Dr Paige highlights how many people needlessly live with vertigo and vestibular disorders and why vestibular health is vital to optimal health.Jen Health Annual Membership Discount:Huge discount on Jen Health Annual Membership! Podcast listeners get nearly 50% off with code OPTIMAL20. Access 12 Therapy Plans and start your free trial now—move with us!LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Stay hydrated and energized with LMNT electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and magnesium for brain and body. Get a free gift with every purchase and try new flavors! Get your Free Gift now!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/401 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, focus on the use of an inversion table for back pain relief. They explore the associated risks and short-term benefits of inversion therapy using an inversion table, emphasizing the importance of addressing the root causes of pain through active rehabilitation, exercise, and lifestyle changes. The discussion encourages a holistic approach to health optimization, combining practical advice with professional insights to promote long-term well-being. VivoBarefoot Discount:Support your feet and ankles with VivoBarefoot shoes—perfect for any occasion! Boost mobility and strength from the ground up. Use code OPTIMAL20 for 20% off. 100-day trial included—return if you’re not satisfied!**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!Stay hydrated and energized with LMNT electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and magnesium for brain and body. Get a free gift with every purchase and try new flavors! Get your Free Gift now! We think you’ll love:Strong Healthy JointsJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube Channel What 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... For full show notes and resources go to: https://jen.health/podcast/400 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom , doctors of physical therapy, 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 and a thoughtful, individualized nutrition and diet plan. Lauren offers practical nutrition 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:Jen trusted Needed Supplements for fertility, pregnancy, and beyond! Support men and women’s health with vitamins, Omega-3, and more. Used by 6,000+ pros. Use code OPTIMAL for 20% off at checkout!LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Stay hydrated and energized with LMNT electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and magnesium for brain and body. Get a free gift with every purchase and try new flavors! Get your Free Gift now!Lauren's Resources and Links:Functional Fueling WebsiteLauren's IGLauren's YTFunctional Fueling FacebookThe Strength in Hormones PodcastInflammation Harmony ProgramCode OPTIMALBODY for$50 discount on Inflammation HarmonyFull show notes and resources at https://jen.health/podcast/399Also related to this episode: women's health, nutrition for women, hormone health, diet, balancing hormones Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, co-hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, doctors of physical therapy, explore osteoporosis, emphasizing its impact on women's health 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 growth. 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.Strong Healthy JointsThis program is a powerhouse in helping build muscle mass and improve your bone density! Come grab our listener bonus discount on Strong Healthy Joints using code OPTIMAL20 at checkout!VivoBarefoot Discount:Support your feet and ankles with VivoBarefoot shoes—perfect for any occasion! Boost mobility and strength from the ground up. Use code OPTIMAL20 for 20% off. 100-day trial included—return if you’re not satisfied!**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 DiscountJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelWhat 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...For full show notes and resources, please visit: https://jen.health/podcast/398 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. The guest highlights recent research done on prevalence of bunions and other foot disorders based on footwear and occupation. 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 exercise, and the potential to improve foot health and symptoms related to conditions like bunions at any age.VivoBarefoot Discount:Support your feet and ankles with VivoBarefoot shoes—perfect for any occasion! Boost mobility and strength from the ground up. Naturally improve your foot health and symptoms related to conditions like bunions! Use code OPTIMAL20for 20% off. 100-day trial included—return if you’re not satisfied!**Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund.Strong Healthy JointsThis program is a powerhouse in helping build muscle mass and improve your bone density! Come grab our listener bonus discount on Strong Healthy Joints using code OPTIMAL20 at checkout!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/397Also related to this episode: plantar fasciitis, physical therapy, foot health, movement, exercise, body tips, health hips, orthopedics, orthotics Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.Strong Healthy JointsThis program is a powerhouse in helping build muscle mass and improve your bone density! Come grab our listener bonus discount on Strong Healthy Joints using code OPTIMAL20 at checkout!Needed Discount:Jen trusted Needed Supplements for fertility, pregnancy, and beyond! Support men and women’s health with vitamins, Omega-3, and more. Used by 6,000+ pros. Use code OPTIMAL for 20% off at checkout!We think you’ll love:Strong Healthy JointsJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelWhat 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...For full Show Notes and Resources visit:https://jen.health/podcast/396 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 nutrition, and menopause. Doctor Amati emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fermented dairy, oily fish, and plant-based foods for overall health and pregnancy nutrition. The conversation also addresses the global fertility crisis, the benefits of the Mediterranean diet, and practical tips for maintaining nutritional health and pregnancy nutrition through various life stages. LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Stay hydrated and energized with LMNT electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and magnesium for brain and body. Get a free gift with every purchase and try new flavors! Get your Free Gift now! Needed Discount:Jen trusted Needed Supplements for fertility, pregnancy, and beyond! Support men and women’s health with vitamins, Omega-3, and more. Used by 6,000+ pros. Use code OPTIMAL for 20% off at checkout! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership:Get a free week of Jen Health Membership! Access 12 plans crafted by Doc Jen, PT. We’ll match you with the best plan for your goals. Check it out today and use code OPTIMAL for a discount on your first month! Dr Federica's Resources and Links:Dr Federica's InstagramDr Federica's WebsiteLearn More About ZOEZOE Science and Nutrition Podcast 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 Stages... For full Show Notes and Resources visit: https://jen.health/podcast/395 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Dr. Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, dive into vibration plate benefits and their role in optimal health. They explore whether these devices can support functional independence, address pain, and contribute to women's health—particularly around muscle loss and bone strength. The conversation also touches on the mind-body connection, how vibration plates might impact issues like plantar fasciitis or hip flexors, and why critical research evaluation is essential. The docs discuss how tools like vibration plates fit into broader health optimization strategies, including exercise, HIIT, and nutrition, and remind listeners that while these devices can be helpful, they should complement—not replace—fundamental movement and physical therapy principles for true longevity and body love. 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 InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube Channel  What You'll Learn:2:04 Overview of Whole Body Vibration4:09 Exploration of how vibration affects muscle contractions and potential weight loss.5:05 Anecdotal insights on how vibration... Get the Full Show Notes and Resources here: https://jen.health/podcast/394 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom talk with Forrest Smith, CEO of Kineon, about red light therapy for chronic pain, optimal health, and functional independence. Forrest shares his journey with red light therapy after an MCL tear, focusing on its science, benefits, and real-world use. They cover dosing, device differences, and how red light therapy supports women’s health, longevity, and the mind-body connection, as well as how it can complement physical therapy and exercise for better quality of life. VivoBarefoot Discount:Support your feet and ankles with VivoBarefoot shoes—with perfect styles for any occasion! Boost foot health through mobility and strength from the ground up. Use code OPTIMAL20 for 20% off. 100-day trial included—return if you’re not satisfied! LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Stay hydrated and energized with LMNT electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and magnesium for brain and body. It’s our favorite micro nutrition hack to get those essential minerals in! Get a free gift with every purchase and try new flavors! Get your Free Gift now! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership:Huge discount on Jen Health Annual Membership! Podcast listeners get over 50% off with code OPTIMAL10. Access 12 Therapy Plans and start your free trial now—move with us! Forrest's Resources and Links:Kineon WebsiteResearch and Science Behind KineonKineon Youtube ChannelKineon Facebook GroupKineon InstagramForrest Smith InstagramWe think you’ll love:Jen’s Instagram What You will Learn from Forrest:3:28 Forrest discusses his personal...For full show notes and resources: https://jen.health/podcast/393 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.