Extend Podcast with Darshan Shah, MD

Dr. Nayan Patel, a pioneering pharmacist and researcher known for discovering the first stable form of glutathione, dives into the crucial role of this master antioxidant. He explains how our bodies face overwhelming toxin loads and outlines the three key ways glutathione supports health. Dr. Patel discusses why traditional IV therapies fail and reveals a breakthrough stable form of glutathione that can reverse brain fog in just minutes. His insights challenge us to rethink our health approaches, emphasizing the importance of detoxification and immune function.

Dr. Scott Sherr, a board-certified internist, explores the fascinating world of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) and its potential to transform cellular health. He explains how increased oxygen levels can shift gene expression and support mitochondrial repair, crucial for combating brain fog and low energy. Scott emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment, discussing who should proceed with HBOT and why metabolic testing is vital. Tune in to discover how this innovative therapy can enhance recovery and longevity.

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Bill Rawls, a board-certified physician and author of The Cellular Wellness Solution, dives deep into the hidden world of chronic infections and cellular health. He reveals how fatigue and brain fog may signal deeper cellular issues. Dr. Rawls explains why chronic illness often persists and shares five essential needs for cellular healing. He contrasts the effectiveness of herbs over antibiotics, emphasizing natural solutions for immune support. His personal journey from chronic Lyme to wellness drives home the importance of understanding our body’s silent symptoms.

Your doctor says your health problems are genetic, so you're destined for the same fate. But what if that's completely wrong? In this episode of Extend, I'm joined by Professor Tim Spector, one of the world's leading microbiome researchers, to reveal the truth: your gut bacteria have more control over your health than your genes do. We explore Tim's 30-year twin study that turned modern medicine upside down, the devastating effects of antibiotics on your internal ecosystem, and why ultra-processed foods are as dangerous as cigarettes. We also dive into why 95% of Americans are dangerously fiber-deficient, and how fermented foods can reduce inflammation like natural steroids.   Professor Tim Spector is a genetic epidemiologist at King's College London, co-founder of Zoe, and author of multiple bestselling books on the microbiome. His research on 16,000 twins has revolutionized our understanding of how gut health trumps genetics in determining health outcomes.   We Also Discuss: (02:18) 30 Years of Twin Research: The Study That Changed Everything  (08:35) The Antibiotic Crisis: Why Your Childhood Meds Are Still Hurting You  (11:31) C. Diff and the First Clue About Good vs. Bad Bacteria  (22:40) Why Your Gut Microbiome Matters More Than Your Genetics  (30:30) The Hidden Connection Between Gut Health and Autoimmune Disease  (35:39) Ultra-Processed Foods: The Modern Cigarette Industry  (43:51) Why 95% of Americans Are Fiber-Deficient (And Obsessed with Protein)  (58:58) The 30 Plants Challenge: Diversity Over Restriction  (01:05:22) Sourdough Secrets: Real vs. Fake (Most Is Fake)  (01:13:46) Inside the Zoe Kit: Personalized Nutrition Based on Your Biology  (01:19:53) GLP-1 Drugs: The Perfect Window for Gut Health Reset  (01:27:36) Prebiotics vs. Probiotics vs. Postbiotics: What Actually Works  (01:41:29) The Food for Life Cookbook: 100 Recipes for Your Microbiome Thank You for Our Sponsors:   TruNiagen: Whether you are looking to stay sharp, feel more energized or simple age better, go to https://www.truniagen.com/ IFit: If you are looking to elevate your home gym fitness experience with the best in fitness tech, choose IFIT. Go to https://www.ifit.com/NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at https://www.next-health.com/IM8: Get 20% off your first order with code DRSHAH at https://im8health.com/discount/DRSHAH.   Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: https://www.drshah.com/ Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/ Learn more about Professor Tim Spector: Instagram: @tim.spector Website: https://zoe.com/en-us  Pre-Order Ferment  

What if the real reason you’re gaining weight, feeling wired, or struggling to nourish your family isn’t about willpower—but the culture you live in? On this episode of Extend, I’m joined by Shawn Stevenson—nutritionist, bestselling author, and host of The Model Health Show—to explore how our food environment, not personal discipline, is fueling the chronic disease crisis. If you’re raising kids, trying to eat better, or just feel overwhelmed by ultra-processed foods, this conversation cuts through the noise. We unpack the science behind shared meals, how family dinner regulates your stress hormones, why many “healthy” foods aren’t, and what it takes to create a home culture that supports real health. Shawn Stevenson is a bestselling author, nutritionist, and the creator of The Model Health Show, which has ranked as the #1 health podcast in the U.S. He’s the author of Eat Smarter and The Eat Smarter Family Cookbook, blending nutrition science with practical strategies for home-cooked meals that heal.   We Also Discuss: This Isn’t About Food. It’s About Culture. One Meal That Lowers Disease Risk? Why You’re Craving What You Crave How Ultra-Processed Foods Hijack Your Brain Seed Oils, Satiety & the $1 Lie “Healthy” Labels Are Lying to You Calories Aren’t the Problem. This Is. The Longevity Hack No One Talks About: Dinner Together Thank You for Our Sponsors: TruNiagen: Whether you are looking to stay sharp, feel more energized or simple age better, go to https://www.truniagen.com/IFit: If you are looking to elevate your home gym fitness experience with the best in fitness tech, choose IFIT. Go to https://www.ifit.com/Nexthealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at https://www.next-health.com/Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit https://vitaboom.com/ Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: https://www.drshah.com/ Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/   Learn more about Shawn Stevenson:   Website: themodelhealthshow.com Instagram: @shawnmodel

Dr. Grant Elliott, a physical therapist and founder of RehabFix, is on a mission to demystify back pain. He discusses how common diagnoses like sciatica can mislead patients and why MRIs might exacerbate pain. With insights into the brain-body connection, he advocates for movement as the best medicine. Elliott shares daily habits and mindset shifts that can significantly aid recovery while cautioning against the overuse of pain medications. He even touches on the surprising fact that many disc herniations heal spontaneously, empowering listeners with knowledge for a pain-free life.

You’re bloated. Tired. Anxious. Maybe even burnt out. You’ve tried the diets, the supplements, the meditation apps… But you’re still not healing. Why? In this episode of Extend, I’m joined by Elissa Goodman, a holistic health expert and cancer survivor, to explore the deep connection between gut health, inflammation, and overall well-being. We dive deep into the science behind food resets, the importance of eliminating inflammatory foods, and the role of personalized blood work in identifying hidden health imbalances. And also discuss practical strategies for improving digestion, boosting energy, and supporting long-term health through a balanced diet and stress management. By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with actionable insights to help your body reset, reduce inflammation, and improve both your mental and physical health, starting with your gut. Elissa Goodman is a holistic nutritionist specializing in gut health, personalized food resets, and functional nutrition. After overcoming cancer, she combines conventional and alternative therapies to restore health and reduce inflammation. We Also Discuss: (00:02) What Sparked a Lifelong Mission to Heal? (03:56) Wellness Trends: Game-Changers or Gimmicks? (14:36) Only Eating 3 Veggies? Here’s Why That’s a Problem (18:35) Struggling with Bloating? This Might Be Your Missing Link (25:20) Detox Myths Busted—Here’s What Actually Works (31:55) The Healing Strategy You’re Probably Overlooking (43:30) The Real Reason You’re Tired (It’s Not Just Sleep) (51:17) Mindset Over Medicine? A Radical Healing Shift (01:14:05) The Supplements Elissa Actually Recommends Thank You for Our Sponsors:   TruNiagen: Whether you are looking to stay sharp, feel more energized or simple age better, go to https://www.truniagen.com/IFit:If you are looking to elevate your home gym fitness experience with the best in fitness tech, choose IFIT. Go to https://www.ifit.com/NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at https://www.next-health.com/Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit https://vitaboom.com/   Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: https://www.drshah.com/ Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/ Learn more about Elissa Goodman: Website: https://www.elissagoodman.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/elissagoodman

Dr. Robin Berzin, a Columbia-trained MD and founder of Parsley Health, shares her insights on how functional medicine can reveal hidden health imbalances often overlooked in traditional care. She discusses the critical connections between blood sugar, hormones, and chronic symptoms like fatigue and fertility issues. The conversation dives into her innovative 'brains, bones, and booty' framework for women's health, advocating for a holistic, preventive approach. Listeners will gain valuable tips on finding the right healthcare provider and navigating challenges in the system.

What if the root cause of burnout, inflammation, and hormone dysfunction isn’t just physical—but energetic? In this episode of Extend, I sit down with Dr. Pedram Shojai—Taoist monk, doctor of Oriental medicine, and author of The Urban Monk—to explore how ancient wisdom meets modern health. We unpack why true healing requires addressing your qi (life force), how emotional stagnation leads to physical disease, and why regulating your energy is just as important as optimizing your bloodwork. From the microbiome to meditation, Dr. Pedram shares how restoring energetic flow can radically shift your metabolism, mood, and even your fertility. And we go deep on what most functional medicine still misses about the connection between spiritual vitality and long-term health. Dr. Pedram Shojai is a former Taoist monk, acclaimed filmmaker, and best-selling author who’s helped millions reconnect with their body, breath, and purpose. His work bridges ancient healing systems with today’s most pressing health challenges. We Also Discuss: How blocked energy leads to chronic illness The missing layer in functional medicine The ancient view of fertility and hormones Why energy management is the new stress management The true purpose of breathwork and meditation How to reclaim your life force in a modern world Why we can’t separate emotional and physical healing The nervous system patterns that keep you sick   Thank You To Our Sponsors: Deliverance: Give your liver the care it deserves! Deliverance is a powerful plant-based formula designed to support and restore liver health. Get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at loveyourliver.com Timeline: Upgrade your energy from within! MitoPure by Timeline helps power up your cells, supporting muscle strength, mental clarity, and overall vitality. Stay active, sharp, and strong at any age! Claim 10% off your first order now at timeline.com/DrShah Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: https://www.drshah.com/ Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/   Learn more about Dr. Pedram Shojai   Instagram: @drpedramshojaiWebsite: www.theurbanmonk.com   

What if your exhaustion, brain fog, or cravings aren’t a motivation problem—but a sleep problem no one’s diagnosed yet? In this episode of Extend, I’m joined by Dr. Michael Breuss, a sleep specialist, and we dig into why so many high performers are chronically under-recovered, why sleep disorders go undetected for years, and how wearables are both helping and hurting. We talk about why 8 hours might be the wrong goal, how your chronotype should determine your schedule, why snoring isn’t harmless, and the link between GLP-1s and sleep apnea. You’ll also learn how mouth tape works, the surprising truth about blue light, and why most hydration habits fail. Dr. Michael Breus is a clinical psychologist, board-certified sleep specialist, and the author of five books on sleep. He’s worked with Olympic athletes, celebrities, and CEOs—and in this conversation, he’s bringing you the same level of clarity and insight.   We Also Discuss: Why Sleep Disorders Go Undiagnosed for Years The Truth About Sleep Trackers and Deep Sleep Scores Is Your Bedroom Air Ruining Your Sleep? Mouth Tape: Helpful or Harmful? GLP-1s for Sleep Apnea? Here’s What the Science Says Your Sleep Needs Change With Your Period Morning Breathwork That Replaces Coffee Sip vs Gulp: Are You Drinking Water Wrong? Thank You To Our Sponsors:   TruNiagen: Whether you are looking to stay sharp, feel more energized or simple age better, go to https://www.truniagen.com/ IFit: If you are looking to elevate your home gym fitness experience with the best in fitness tech, choose IFIT. Go to https://www.ifit.com/NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at https://www.next-health.com/Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit https://vitaboom.com/   Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: https://www.drshah.com/ Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/   Learn more about Dr. Michael Breus    Instagram: @thesleepdoctorWebsite: https://sleepdoctor.com