Extend Podcast with Darshan Shah, MD

Rethink everything you thought you knew about cholesterol! Discover why focusing solely on LDL and total cholesterol could be misleading. Learn about ApoB, the crucial metric for assessing heart health, and how it better predicts cardiovascular risk. Explore the formation of arterial plaque and the importance of inflammation and metabolic health. Uncover natural methods to lower ApoB and when medications might be necessary. Step into a modern approach to heart health and longevity!

What if the secret to better energy, fat loss, and gut health wasn’t more discipline… but a smarter strategy? Most people are hacking the wrong system—and it’s backfiring. In this episode of Extend, I’m joined by Joel Greene, creator of the VEEP Nutrition System and one of the most innovative minds in metabolic health. We break down the science behind fat loss, blood sugar regulation, gut health, and why conventional diet advice is failing most people. We dive into how your microbiome controls more than just digestion, why fasting isn’t one-size-fits-all, and what your body really needs to burn fat and build lasting energy. Joel also shares cutting-edge insights on short-chain fatty acids, protein misconceptions, and how your environment is silently shaping your metabolic function. If you want to understand how your body actually works—and how to fuel it for longevity and performance—this conversation is a game-changer.   We Also Discuss: How the Wellness Industry Got It All Wrong The Hidden Link Between Poor Sleep and Your Diet From Sick to Superhuman: Joel’s Radical Health Turnaround The Forgotten Foods That Heal Your Gut Why Most Gut Protocols Fail (And What to Do Instead) Think You’re Eating Healthy? Think Again. The Missing Piece in Every Metabolic Plan It’s Not Just What You Eat—It’s When and How   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 Joel Greene:   Website: https://www.veepnutrition.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realjoelgreene/?hl=en

What if our food system wasn’t designed for our health, but for shelf life, convenience, and corporate profit? In today’s episode of Extend, I’m joined by Ricky Silver, CEO of Daily Harvest, who brings a rare inside-the-industry view of how our food system really works, and how we can change it. We explore how government subsidies, processed foods, and industrial farming practices have led to the chronic disease crisis we’re facing today. We dig into why frozen organic produce is a nutritional powerhouse, what regenerative agriculture actually means, and how everyday consumers like you and me can help shift the food industry toward something more nourishing, for people and the planet. Whether you're someone who shops organic or you're just beginning to question what’s really in your food, this episode will empower you to make smarter choices and push for systemic change. Ricky Silver is the CEO of Daily Harvest, a company focused on making organic, plant-based meals accessible and convenient. He brings a unique perspective on the intersection of science, food, and health. Let’s get into it. We Also Discuss: Why “Organic” Isn’t Just a Label—It’s a System Shift How Your Grocery Cart Can Change the Food Industry The Real Reason Our Food Is Making Us Sick From Profit to Purpose: Rethinking the Food System’s North Star What Farmers Really Want—and Why We Should Listen The Untold Truth About Gluten, Glyphosate, and Gut Health Thank You for 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 Ricky Silver: Website: https://www.dailyharvest.com Instagram: @dailyharvestInstagram: @rickyjsilver

What if the reason your supplements aren’t working has nothing to do with your body—and everything to do with what’s in the bottle? In this episode of Extend, I’m joined by biochemist and ingredient formulator Shawn Wells, a leading voice in evidence-based supplementation and mitochondrial health. Together, we uncover why so many products fail to deliver results, how to build a smarter, personalized stack, and what most people get completely wrong about vitamins, probiotics, and biohacking. We get into the dangers of proprietary blends, why over 80% of supplements on Amazon may be underdosed or inactive, and what blood tests and wearables really reveal about your health. Shawn also shares his foundational stack—from GLP-1 agonists to mitochondrial protectors—and explains why dosing and timing matter more than you think. If you’re relying on guesswork when it comes to supplements, this episode will change your approach for good.   We Also Discuss: The Supplement Lies You’ve Been Told Why Bio-Individuality Changes Everything How to Spot a Scam Supplement The Foundational Stack You Actually Need Muscle, Brain & Bone: The Smart Stack Upgrade Your Brain: Next-Gen Nootropics The New Science of Sleep Support Immunity, Mitochondria & Microbiome Hacks   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 Shawn Wells   Website: www.shawnwells.com Instagram: @shawnwells YouTube: Shawn Wells  

What if menopause didn’t have to be a challenge, but an opportunity?    In this episode of Extend, I’m joined by Zora Benhamou, host of the Hack My Age podcast, to challenge the common narrative around menopause. Zora shares a refreshing perspective that empowers women to see this stage of life as a chance for reinvention, growth, and better health. We discuss the science behind hormone therapy, the importance of muscle-building and stress management, and how women can navigate menopause without feeling defeated. Together, we dive deep into practical, science-backed insights on how women can not only reduce symptoms but optimize their health for the long run. Zora Benhamou is a gerontologist and health and longevity expert, dedicated to helping women navigate aging confidently. As the host of Hack My Age, she educates listeners on biohacking, menopause, and anti-aging strategies.   We Also Discuss: Podcast Interview on Women's Health Global Attitudes Towards Menopause Optimizing Menopausal Health Through Biohacking Mastering Parasympathetic Balance and Hormone Replacement Post-Surgery Supplement Hacks for Recovery Surgery Gratitude and Recovery Hacks Thank you for 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 Zora Benhamou:   Website: Hack My Age​ Instagram: @hackmyage​ Facebook: Hack My Age​ YouTube: Hack My Age TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@hackmyage Membership Group: https://hackmyage.com/biohacking-menopause-membership/  Menopause Quiz: https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/661e9e6786298f2031ac25ba  ​  

Brain fog, forgetfulness, and lack of focus are becoming the norm, but they don’t have to be. In this episode of Extend, I’m joined by Jim Kwik, a world-renowned brain coach and author of the bestselling book Limitless, to uncover how to unlock your brain’s full potential. We dive into the science of neuroplasticity, daily habits that sabotage your memory, and how to reclaim focus in a world of constant distraction. Jim shares actionable tools to improve learning, strengthen cognitive performance, and boost mental energy, without relying on caffeine or willpower. We also explore the impact of gut health, sleep, HRV, and nootropics on brain function, and how to build a sharper, more resilient mind at any age. Jim Kwik is a world-renowned brain coach, best-selling author of Limitless, and expert in memory, focus, and accelerated learning.   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 Jim Kwik: Instagram: @jimkwik​ Facebook: @jimkwikofficial​Log in or sign up to view Twitter: @jimkwik​ YouTube: Jim Kwik  

In today’s episode of Extend, we’re tackling a crucial health issue: high blood pressure. Often called the "silent killer," high blood pressure increases your risk for heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, and more. But what if you could prevent these risks before they escalate? I’ll break down why measuring your blood pressure at home is far more effective than relying on a single doctor’s visit. You’ll also learn about the SPRINT trial and why keeping your blood pressure at 120/70 can significantly improve long-term health. We’ll explore practical steps to manage high blood pressure, including improving your sleep, reducing stress, optimizing metabolic health, and incorporating strength training. Plus, I’ll discuss how new medications and emerging technologies like continuous blood pressure monitoring are transforming care. This episode is all about prevention and early intervention—two key elements to living a longer, healthier life. If you’ve been ignoring your blood pressure, now’s the time to take control. Tune in! I Also Discuss:   Understanding High Blood Pressure As A Silent Killer The Importance Of At-home Blood Pressure Monitoring How The Sprint Trial Revolutionized Blood Pressure Management Effective Lifestyle Changes To Control High Blood Pressure Thank you for 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 Sources:    SPRINT Studyhttps://www.sprinttrial.org    Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: https://www.drshah.com/ Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/

Dr. Alok Trivedi, a leading expert in performance psychology and founder of the Rewire system, dives deep into how unresolved traumas shape our health and habits. He reveals that mindset work alone often fails without emotional integration. Listeners learn about the neuroscience behind reprogramming the brain to escape negative cycles and the impact of trauma on the nervous system. Dr. Trivedi shares strategies for emotional healing and the importance of aligning mental and physical health for personal growth, providing real-world tools for transformation.

Dr. Greg Kelly, a licensed naturopathic physician and expert in nootropics and human optimization, joins the conversation to discuss the science behind supplements. He reveals the truth about popular products, cutting through the hype that often surrounds them. Listeners will learn how nootropics can boost cognitive performance and resilience, while gut health plays a crucial role in overall well-being. The episode provides practical insights into selecting effective supplements for better focus, digestion, and long-term health.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Navaz Habib, a functional medicine practitioner and author of 'Upgrade Your Vagus Nerve,' unveils the vital role of the vagus nerve in health management and inflammation control. He shares practical strategies like breathwork and innovative biohacking tools to enhance vagal tone. The discussion highlights the importance of heart rate variability (HRV) for tracking nervous system health and dives into the connection between gut health and the vagus nerve, empowering listeners to take charge of their well-being.