
Extend Podcast with Darshan Shah, MD
Extend with Darshan Shah, MD is a podcast dedicated to cutting-edge science, research, tools, and protocols designed to help you extend your healthspan.
Starting my medical journey at 16 and becoming one of the youngest doctors in the country, studying and training at the Mayo Clinic, Harvard Business School, Singularity University and other prestigious institutions, becoming a board certified surgeon and accumulating over two decades of practice, I have discovered that a mere 20% of health knowledge yields 80% of the results.
That's why this podcast is all about cutting through the noise on how to turn back the aging clock.
I interview world-renowned medical practitioners, doctors, experts, and thought leaders, offering you a step-by-step guide and actionable advice to proactively avoid disease and optimize your health.
Plus, I share weekly solo episodes giving you quick, digestible protocols for successfully extending your healthspan.
Latest episodes

Jan 14, 2025 • 1h 31min
23. Louisa Nicola: The Simple Habits That Will Rejuvenate Your Brain
Louisa Nicola, a neurophysiologist and founder of NeuroAthletics, specializes in brain optimization and cognitive performance. She explains the crucial connection between exercise and brain health, revealing how aerobic and resistance training can enhance cognitive function. Louisa emphasizes the importance of quality sleep as a brain 'cleaning system' and discusses the dangers of inflammation and ultra-processed foods. With her background as an elite triathlete, she shares practical habits and protocols to prevent cognitive decline and promote mental resilience.

8 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 10min
22. How to Break Free from the Sedentary Trap
Wondering if the gym can offset hours of desk time? The podcast dives into the dangers of a sedentary lifestyle and its link to chronic diseases like heart disease and Alzheimer’s. Discover how movement throughout the day is crucial for your health. Learn about 'exercise snacks' that can easily fit into your routine and find out why a post-meal walk is a game-changer. With practical tips for breaking the sedentary cycle, it's time to boost your daily activity and enhance your overall well-being!

Jan 7, 2025 • 1h 30min
21. Dr. Jay Shah: The Deadly Effects of Hypertension You’re Not Aware Of
Dr. Jay Shah, a seasoned cardiologist and Chief Medical Officer at Aktiia, dives deep into the hidden dangers of hypertension, often called the 'silent killer.' He highlights how half the population is unaware of their condition, leading to grave health consequences. Jay shares insights on innovative continuous blood pressure monitoring technology, the link between stress and hypertension, and the impact of lifestyle changes. He emphasizes the importance of proactive management and the potential of new diagnostic tools to transform heart health.

Dec 31, 2024 • 2h 35min
20. Dr. Rangan Chatterjee: Burnout Is Rewiring Your Brain—Here’s How to Take Back Control
Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, a leading figure in functional medicine and best-selling author, discusses the unseen toll of burnout. He explains how modern life's stressors, from emails to social media, can rewire our brains and lead to chronic fatigue. Listeners learn about the power of micro-habits like quick workouts and tea rituals in combating burnout. Dr. Chatterjee emphasizes aligning daily actions with personal values and introduces the 'three M’s' framework: mindfulness, movement, and mindset, to foster intentional living and overall well-being.

5 snips
Dec 26, 2024 • 11min
19. The Supplement Myths You Need to Stop Believing
Dive into the confusion of dietary supplements as myths are debunked and personalization is highlighted. Discover why modern diets often lack essential nutrients and which foundational supplements are crucial. Learn about the role of advanced supplements for cognitive and metabolic health. Get insights on ensuring quality and safety in your supplement choices and how blood work and genetic testing can guide your health journey. This discussion is a goldmine for anyone looking to optimize their health with smart supplementation.

Dec 24, 2024 • 1h 20min
18. Dr. Dale Bredesen: This Hidden Risk is Damaging Your Brain, Can Alzheimer’s Be Reversed + The New Breakthroughs Everyone Needs to Know
Dr. Dale Bredesen, a brain health pioneer and author of 'The End of Alzheimer’s', shares groundbreaking insights on reversing cognitive decline. He explains the importance of early detection and personalized medicine, emphasizing how inflammation and toxins can impact brain health. Dr. Bredesen introduces innovative protocols like Recode and Precode, highlighting patient success stories. The discussion also covers the role of chronic infections and the ApoE4 gene, offering hope and actionable strategies for maintaining cognitive vitality as we age.

Dec 19, 2024 • 12min
17. Why Your Diet Isn’t Working (And What Actually Does)
Are you trapped in the cycle of endless dieting and calorie counting? For years, we've been told that weight loss is as simple as “calories in, calories out,” but if that’s true, why do so many of us still struggle? What if the problem isn’t just the numbers, but how we think about them? In this episode of theExtend podcast, I take a closer look at why the traditional approach to calorie control fails—and what you can do instead. From the science behind metabolic rate to the surprising impact of ultra-processed foods on your hunger and hormones, I’m going to break down the three key levers for weight management: calorie restriction, dietary restriction, and time-restricted eating. I also reveal why most diets are destined to fail and how small, sustainable changes can transform not just your weight, but your overall health and energy levels. If you’re ready to break free from ineffective methods and embrace a smarter approach, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss. Tune in to discover how you can not just lose weight but feel better in your own skin. We Also Discuss: (01:51-02:58) Not All Calories Are Created Equal (03:31-04:20) The Japanese Secret to Mindful Eating (06:50-07:28) Where Your Calories Go: Total Energy Expenditure (08:58-09:38) Why Diets Fail 90% of the Time (10:22-11:37) Time-Restricted Eating: Is Fasting for You? 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/ Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: https://www.drshah.com/ Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/

Dec 17, 2024 • 1h 45min
16. JJ Virgin: The Real Reason You’re Not Building Muscle (+ What to Do Instead)
Join JJ Virgin, a four-time New York Times best-selling author and a leader in fitness and nutrition, as she shares her insights on muscle health and longevity. Discover why muscle maintenance is vital for metabolism and strength. JJ emphasizes the power of high-intensity interval training for achieving fitness goals and offers practical advice on protein intake. She reveals how to customize workouts for any lifestyle, while discussing the importance of supplements like creatine for women. Tune in to uncover strategies for optimized health and better workouts!

Dec 12, 2024 • 16min
15. How to Reverse Metabolic Syndrome
Discover the crucial link between metabolic health and chronic diseases affecting millions. Learn how mitochondria power your metabolism and why tracking key biomarkers is essential. Uncover the transformative role of continuous glucose monitors in managing your health. Get practical tips to stabilize energy levels, flatten glucose spikes, and embrace healthy lifestyle changes. With actionable strategies for diet, exercise, and stress management, this discussion empowers you to take control of your metabolic health and enhance your vitality.

Dec 10, 2024 • 1h 53min
14. Darin Olien: The Deceptive Nature of Ultra-Processed Foods, Toxins in our Products, Top Tips on Nutrition, Daily Stress Busters + More
Darin Olien, a wellness pioneer and co-host of Netflix's 'Down to Earth,' dives into the world of ultra-processed foods and their hidden toxins. He emphasizes the transformative power of cutting out these foods and opting for whole ingredients. The conversation touches on practical lifestyle changes, like staying hydrated and practicing nose breathing, that boost mental clarity and resilience. Olien also examines the impact of food subsidies on health and the importance of mindful eating, all while advocating for reconnecting with nature for improved well-being.