Conquering Your Fibromyalgia Podcast

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Impact of ADHD on Obesity and Weight Loss ManagementThis episode explores the significant impact of ADHD on obesity and challenges in maintaining a healthy diet. Last week's discussion on the pleasure trap and social environment dynamics sets the stage for this week's review of a 2009 study on treating refractory obesity in severely obese adults newly diagnosed with ADHD. The study, published in the International Journal of Obesity, investigates whether ADHD pharmacologic treatment leads to sustained weight loss. The findings reveal a higher prevalence of severe obesity among individuals with ADHD and significant weight loss in treated individuals. The episode further delves into the complexities of ADHD's impact on time management, task completion, and emotional regulation, which are crucial for successful weight loss. Additionally, it discusses the implications for weight loss surgery candidates and the potential benefits of integrating ADHD treatment with lifestyle and dietary interventions, including whole food plant-based diets. The episode concludes with insights into treating binge eating disorder and its connection with ADHD, highlighting the effectiveness of medications like Vyvanse. Listeners are encouraged to consider the bio-psycho-social holistic multifaceted approach to managing obesity and chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia.00:00 Understanding ADHD's Impact on Obesity00:39 Exploring the Study on ADHD and Obesity Treatment06:39 Study Findings and Discussion14:01 Implications 22:18 Binge Eating Disorder 32:30 Conclusion and Future Directions Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this episode, listeners explore the challenges of maintaining a healthy diet, particularly a whole food plant-based diet, crucial for managing fibromyalgia and chronic pain. Dr. Lenz delves into the concept of the pleasure trap, the biological and psychological challenges posed by modern high-calorie foods, and the additional complexities introduced by conditions like ADHD. The episode provides strategies to overcome these barriers, emphasizing the importance of resetting taste buds, eliminating triggers, meal planning, and building a support network. 00:00 Introduction to Fibromyalgia and Healthy Eating00:43 Challenges of Adopting a Whole Foods Plant-Based Diet02:21 Understanding the Pleasure Trap07:55 Overcoming Barriers to Healthy Eating10:57 Strategies to Escape the Pleasure Trap18:12 ADHD and Its Impact on Healthy Eating24:10 Conclusion and Next Steps Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Exploring the Benefits of Plant-Based Diets for Osteoarthritis with Dr. Dirkjan Van SchaardenburgIn this continuation of the conversation with a leading rheumatologist from the Netherlands, the focus shifts towards the Plants for Joints Osteoarthritis Trial. The trial targets individuals with osteoarthritis, demonstrating significant improvements in pain, stiffness, and physical function through a plant-based diet. He discusses the study results, comparing them to standard treatments like semaglutide, the challenges of funding non-pharmacological interventions, and the growing acceptance of dietary recommendations among rheumatologists. He emphasizes the potential of lifestyle changes in managing chronic conditions and shares anecdotes of patient success stories. The episode highlights the importance of dietary changes in medical practice and encourages listeners to consider a plant-based diet as a viable option for managing osteoarthritis.00:00 Introduction to Dr. Dirkjan Van Schaardenburg and the Osteoarthritis Study00:35 Overview of the Osteoarthritis Study Results04:06 Comparing Lifestyle Changes and Medications05:17 Dr. Dirkjan Van Schaardenburg Dietary Recommendations07:52 Challenges and Successes in Research Funding10:36 Long-term Effects and Patient Anecdotes16:42 Global Dietary Shifts and Implications25:24 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In the first episode of a two-part series, the Plants for Joints trial is explored, focusing on whether a plant-based diet can alleviate arthritis symptoms. A study participant shares his positive experience with dietary changes on his rheumatoid arthritis. Dr. Dirkjan Van Schaardenburg, a seasoned rheumatologist, discusses how lifestyle factors like diet, sleep, and exercise play a crucial role in managing arthritis. Promising results from the Plants for Joints trial show that a whole food plant-based diet, alongside proper lifestyle changes, can significantly reduce disease activity markers, comparable to modern drug treatments. The conversation also covers the metabolic mechanisms behind diet and arthritis, along with historical studies that laid the groundwork for current research.00:00 Introduction to the Plants for Joints Trial00:41 Personal Testimony: Life Before and After the Trial01:16 Challenges and Commitment to a Plant-Based Diet01:56 Remarkable Improvements and Quality of Life02:43 Recommendations for Others with Rheumatoid Arthritis03:21 Interview with Dr. Dirkjan Van Schaardenburg06:25 Understanding Metabolic Factors and Inflammation10:04 Historical Studies on Diet and Arthritis13:29 Details of the Plants for Joints Trial18:25 Results and Impact of the Trial26:40 Compliance and Lifestyle Changes29:52 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this episode, the weight loss series delves into the connections between obesity and chronic pain, and the benefits of weight loss on reducing chronic pain. The episode discusses a detailed analysis of a study conducted in New Zealand that revealed the effectiveness of a whole food plant-based diet in achieving significant weight loss and improving health outcomes such as cholesterol levels, waist circumference, and medication usage emphasizing the diet's comparative advantages and its practical application in reducing pain associated with conditions like obesity and fibromyalgia.00:00 Introduction to Weight Loss and Chronic Pain00:57 Exploring Diets for Weight Loss02:09 Whole Food Plant-Based Diet Study02:54 Study Methodology and Participant Criteria04:59 Dietary Intervention Details08:15 Study Results and Analysis14:44 Comparing Weight Loss Interventions19:40 Whole Food Plant-Based Diet and Fibromyalgia22:29 Fibromyalgia Study Results26:35 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Teresa's Journey: Overcoming Fibromyalgia with Dr. Michael LenzIn this special Christmas episode of the 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia' podcast, Dr. Michael Lenz shares the inspiring story of his patient, Teresa, who successfully reversed her fibromyalgia through a comprehensive holistic approach. Teresa recounts her long struggle with chronic pain, fatigue, and numerous failed treatments until she found hope and effective strategies with Dr. Lenz. This episode marks the beginning of a series exploring her journey from extreme fibromyalgia to a life of significantly reduced symptoms. Listeners will learn about the importance of proper diagnosis, the role of coexisting conditions like restless leg syndrome and ADHD, and the impact of lifestyle changes like diet and pacing in managing fibromyalgia.00:00 Introduction and Christmas Greetings00:10 Teresa's Fibromyalgia Journey Begins00:32 Challenges and Misunderstandings01:00 Meeting Dr. Lenz02:16 Teresa's Struggles with Daily Life05:23 Seeking Medical Help10:40 The Turning Point13:29 Living with Fibromyalgia15:34 Diagnosis and Treatment26:10 Restless Leg Syndrome and ADHD33:58 Struggles with Retention and Bullying34:39 Family Awareness and Genetic Factors35:31 Early Symptoms and Academic Challenges36:01 Career Aspirations 37:42 Managing Coexisting Conditions39:13 Pacing and Lifestyle Adjustments46:43 Dietary Changes and Health Improvements01:01:50 Encouragement for Those with Fibromyalgia01:03:55 Support and Understanding from Family and Friends01:08:40 Final Thoughts and Gratitude Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this episode, we continue our series on weight loss, obesity, and their link to chronic pain syndromes. Joined by a member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, Dr. Michael Greger we discuss various weight loss strategies, including bariatric surgery, GLP-1 agonists, and the benefits and risks of these medical interventions. The discussion focuses on the potential of whole food plant-based diets as a natural alternative for long-term weight loss, backed by evidence such as the BROAD study from New Zealand. Highlighting the role of natural satiety hormones and the benefits of plant-based nutrition, this episode aims to debunk myths around diet and redefine approaches to sustainable, health-promoting weight loss.00:00 Introduction to Weight Loss and Chronic Pain01:19 Risks and Benefits of GLP-1 Agonists03:26 Natural Alternatives to Weight Loss Drugs04:02 Understanding Appetite and Obesity06:43 Challenges of Calorie-Restricted Diets08:21 The Role of Environment in Obesity09:40 Sustainable Weight Loss with Whole Foods17:07 Thermogenic Effects of Plant-Based Diets18:51 Changing Cravings and Palate Adaptation22:31 The Power of Healthy Eating30:01 Conclusion and Encouragement Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Exploring GLP-1 Agonists: A Game Changer for Weight Loss and Chronic Pain?This is the 3rd episode in the ongoing series on obesity and chronic pain continuing with a discussion on GLP-1 agonists and their impact on chronic pain, specifically fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. The role of GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide in managing diabetes and obesity, their mechanisms of action, and clinical applications is discussed. A recent study from the New England Journal of Medicine detailing the effects of semaglutide on weight loss and osteoarthritis pain is analyzed, highlighting significant improvements in patients with obesity and knee osteoarthritis. The importance of long-term use, potential side effects, and the need for an integrated approach incorporating diet and exercise are also discussed. The episode concludes with the anticipation of next week's guest, Dr. Michael Greger, who will discuss the benefits of a whole food plant-based diet as an alternative to GLP-1 agonists.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Weight Loss Series00:55 Exploring GLP-1 Agonists02:05 How GLP-1 Agonists Work03:42 Clinical Applications and Benefits04:19 Challenges and Considerations09:18 GLP-1 Agonists and the Gut Microbiome11:55 Effectiveness of GLP-1 Agonists18:10 Study on Semaglutide and Osteoarthritis30:10 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions The Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Chronic Pain SyndromesIn this episode, we explore the significant relationship between obesity and chronic pain, and the impact of weight loss on conditions such as fibromyalgia, specifically highlighting bariatric surgery. Key aspects discussed include different types of bariatric surgeries, their mechanisms, benefits, risks, and long-term commitment required for success. Various studies are reviewed showcasing the effects of weight loss on knee osteoarthritis, chronic pain improvement post-surgery, and overall physical function. Future episodes promise to delve into the impact of GLP-1 agonists, very low-calorie diets, and whole food plant-based diets on chronic pain and autoimmune conditions.00:00 Introduction to Chronic Pain and Obesity00:39 Understanding Eating Disorders and Weight Loss01:11 Overview of Weight Loss Interventions01:45 Bariatric Surgery Explained03:47 Types of Bariatric Surgery05:47 Post-Surgery Effects and Benefits06:46 Risks and Long-Term Commitment08:29 Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Chronic Pain08:35 Study on Knee Osteoarthritis and Bariatric Surgery14:41 Predictors of Chronic Pain Post-Surgery16:55 Longitudinal Study on Pain and Function20:23 Meta-Analysis on Back Pain and Bariatric Surgery22:53 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions The Complex Interplay Between Obesity and Chronic PainIn this episode of the 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia' podcast, Dr. Michael Lenz delves into the intricate relationship between obesity and chronic pain syndromes, including fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and migraines. He explores how obesity and chronic pain often co-exist, affecting each other in a challenging cycle intertwined with feelings of shame, frustration, and hopelessness. Dr. Lenz discusses various studies and findings that highlight the prevalence of chronic pain among obese individuals, the potential physiological and psychological factors involved, and the implications for patient care. Emphasizing an evidence-based approach, he aims to provide listeners with strategies for managing both conditions, fostering a supportive and hopeful journey towards better health.00:00 Introduction00:33 Understanding Obesity and Chronic Pain01:06 The Emotional Impact of Obesity01:51 Frustration and Exhaustion in Weight Management02:39 Defeat and Resilience03:12 Hope and Self-Compassion03:58 Diving into Obesity and Chronic Pain04:10 Defining Obesity and Chronic Pain08:15 Studies on Obesity and Chronic Pain16:55 Obesity's Impact on Joint Pain and Surgery24:42 Psychological and Lifestyle Factors27:55 Clinical Implications and Conclusion Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz