Flex Diet Podcast

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I chat with Dr. Sharon Bergquist about her fascinating new book, The Stress Paradox: Why You Need Stress to Live Longer, Healthier, and Happier. We unpack why not all stress is bad — and how the right kinds, in the right doses, can actually make us stronger and more resilient. We dive into the biochemistry of stress, the different types of stressors, and how they affect cellular health, metabolic flexibility, and longevity.We also explore the role of exercise, supplements, interval training, and environmental stressors like cold and heat exposure. Dr. Bergquist shares insights on how a varied, phytochemical-rich diet supports health and why building stress capacity is critical for long-term well-being.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comTriphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:00:17 Introducing Dr. Sharon Bergquist and Her New Book01:22 The Science of Stress and Longevity01:51 The Role of Supplements and Mitochondrial Health02:34 Sponsor Messages and Product Recommendations03:44 Welcoming Dr. Sharon to the Podcast04:16 Historical Perspective on Stress Research07:07 The Biochemistry of Stress Responses09:50 Modern Lifestyle and the Lack of Stressors15:06 The Importance of Food Variety and Micronutrition17:47 The Benefits of Phytochemicals and Plant Toxins37:52 Cold Exposure and Brown Adipose Tissue42:03 The Metabolic Effects of Cold Water Immersion44:07 Understanding Shivering Thermogenesis45:49 Cold Water Immersion and Fat Loss46:43 Cognitive and Mood Benefits of Cold Exposure52:25 The Role of Supplements in Health58:08 The Importance of Exercise01:00:13 Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Longevity01:07:53 Mitochondrial Health and Exercise01:19:11 The Stress Paradox Book Release Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 154: Managing High-Stress Situations and Growing from Trauma: An Interview with Kristina Hoyer Episode 225: The Intersection of Fitness, Stress, and Nutrition: A Conversation with Expert Jenny the NutritionistConnect with Dr Bergquist: Website: https://drsharonbergquist.com/The Stress Paradox: https://www.amazon.com/Stress-Paradox-Essential-Management-Mind-Body-Soul-ebook/dp/B0CW13NLBZGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

In this solo episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m letting you know that the Physiologic Flexibility Certification is tonight at midnight PST on March 24, 2025. If you’ve been thinking about joining, now’s the time.I also dig into the core of what the cert teaches: how to train your body’s homeostatic regulators like temperature, pH, oxygen, CO₂, ketones, and lactate to improve recovery, build stress resilience, and boost performance. We’ll cover tools like cold water immersion, breathwork, and heat exposure, and I break down the concept of cross adaptations—how training one system can benefit another. I share some cool studies, personal experiences, and walk you through how the cert works.If you want to push your physiology further and build a more adaptable body, this is the episode for you.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comPhysiologic Flexibility Certification Course open through March 24, 2025: https://miketnelsons.samcart.com/products/physflex/Episode Chapters:00:24 Physiologic Flexibility Certification Announcement01:12 Understanding Physiologic Flexibility02:10 Adaptations to Environmental Stressors04:08 Cross Adaptation and Research Insights06:08 Cold Water Immersion and Practical Applications06:58 Final Thoughts and Certification Details07:31 Upcoming Podcast and Closing RemarksGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Join me, Dr Mike T Nelson, on this week's Flex Diet Podcast as I sit down with Jordyn Payne from Advanced Brain Centers of Virginia to dig into the real benefits and applications of IV therapies and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). We get into the details of Myers Cocktails, NAD infusions, and other IV treatments—how they can boost brain function, improve performance, and speed up recovery. Jordyn also shares insights on HBOT’s role in treating traumatic brain injuries and concussions, plus how it can be a game-changer for overall brain health. We also discuss the importance of preventative medicine and how to vet IV therapy providers so you don’t waste time (or money) on subpar treatments.Oh, and a quick heads-up—the Physiologic Flexibility Certification is open until March 24, 2025! If you want to level up your knowledge on resilience, recovery, and adaptation, now’s the time to jump in.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comPhysiologic Flexibility Certification Course open through March 24, 2025: https://miketnelsons.samcart.com/products/physflex/Triphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:01:29 IV Therapies and Their Benefits01:57 Physiologic Flexibility Certification05:00 Discussion on Patient Populations07:36 Rise of Preventative Medicine14:09 NAD Infusions: Benefits and Experiences25:07 Combining Therapies for Optimal Results30:05 Exploring Myers Cocktail31:40 Understanding the Myers Cocktail33:33 Choosing the Right IV Therapy Provider38:26 Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Wellness and Performance40:43 Hyperbaric Therapy for Athletes and Brain Injuries48:06 Comparing Soft Shell and Hard Shell Hyperbaric Chambers53:48 Safety and Efficacy of At-Home Hyperbaric Units57:43 Conclusion and Contact InformationFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 309: Understanding Adaptogens: Boost Performance & Well-being with Dr. Jeremy TownsendEpisode 215: Breathing, Heart Rate, and HRV: An Interview with Dr. Scotty Butcher, The Strength JediConnect with Jordyn: Website: https://www.advancedbraincentersofva.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abcofva/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Mike T. Nelson. In this episode, I’m excited to announce that the Physiologic Flexibility Certification will be open from March 17th to March 24th, 2025.I’ll also be heading to Parker University Talks in Las Vegas, where I’ll be speaking alongside some incredible experts in the field.Today, we’re diving deep into Physiologic Flexibility—the key to upgrading your performance by targeting homeostatic regulators like temperature, pH balance, expanded fuel sources, and oxygen/CO₂ regulation. These elements are critical for adapting to stress and pushing your resilience to the next level.I’ll discuss practical applications for exercise, nutrition, and sleep and how to strategically apply stress to become more antifragile. Whether you’re into high-tech solutions or prefer simple, low-tech methods, this episode has actionable insights to help you maximize your recovery and performance.Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comPhysiologic Flexibility Certification Course open Monday, March 17 to Monday, March 24: https://miketnelsons.samcart.com/products/physflex/Triphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:00:18 Physiologic Flexibility Certification Announcement00:43 Upcoming Events and Speakers01:57 Key Concepts of Physiologic Flexibility05:46 Understanding Antifragility10:52 Practical Applications and Interventions16:08 Conclusion and Contact InformationGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Drew Gonzalez to explore strategies for optimizing performance and managing stress in high-demand professions like firefighting, military, and executive leadership. Dr. Gonzalez shares his latest research on how supplements like astaxanthin and creatine can benefit firefighters, the effects of time-restricted feeding, and how heat stress and VR training can be leveraged for better stress adaptation.We also explore his ongoing work at Texas A&M, where he leads cutting-edge research and collaborations to improve first-responder health and fitness.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comPhysiologic Flexibility Certification Course coming soon: https://miketnelsons.samcart.com/products/physflex/Triphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:05:33 Dr. Gonzalez's Research Journey08:25 Challenges Faced by Tactical Personnel14:08 Time-Restricted Feeding Study23:19 Heat Stress and Temperature Changes28:08 Exploring the Need for Specialized Training29:30 The Role of VR in Tactical Training30:59 Assessing Physical and Mental Performance33:46 Astaxanthin and Firefighter Health38:41 Future Research and Supplementation44:31 Closing Remarks and Future Guests Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 223: Embracing challenges and pushing boundaries with bestselling author Michael Easter Episode 228: Unlocking the Power of Astaxanthin: A Deep Dive with Dr. Karen HechtConnect with Dr Gonzalez: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drewwgonzalez/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Dylan Seeley to explore how neurology can enhance athletic performance. We dive deep into working with MMA fighters, focusing on how the brain influences movement, reaction time, and overall performance. Dr. Seeley shares insights into visual and vestibular training, explaining why peripheral vision, balance, and coordination are critical for elite athletes.We also tackle the impact of microdosing, discussing its potential effects on cognitive function and brain optimization. From there, we break down HRV and autonomic nervous system testing, looking at how stress, recovery, and nervous system regulation can make or break performance. Dr. Seeley also provides valuable knowledge on concussions, explaining how they affect an athlete’s cognitive and visual systems and what can be done to improve recovery.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comDr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.Flex 4: Check out Dr. Seeley's top 4 tips for someone who has the basics but wants to take their training to the next level: https://miketnelson.com/flex4/Triphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:04:54 Diving into Visual Training09:05 The Importance of Visual and Vestibular Systems in Sports13:28 Training Techniques and Athlete Insights33:41 Integrating Visual Training into Workouts40:58 Reinforcing Eye Strength with Drills41:18 Biometrics in Sports Performance42:20 Heart Rate and Decision-Making in Athletes45:16 Autonomic Testing for Athletes53:19 Visual Field Testing Techniques01:00:54 Advanced Visual and Autonomic Testing01:05:20 The Art of Coaching and Rehabilitation01:10:03 Pushing Limits in Athlete Training01:12:50 Contact Information and Closing Remarks Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 199: The Neurology of Movement, Exercise and Training – An Interview Coach Dan Fichter of WannaGetFast Episode 241: A New Perspective on Brain Health with Dr. Shaun KornfeldConnect with Dr Seeley: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylan_seeleydc/Website: https://www.inferno-pr.com/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

In this discussion, Dr. Allison Brager, a PhD neuroscientist, CrossFit athlete, and military sleep expert, reveals the intricacies of sleep science. She addresses the importance of sleep phases and individual chronotypes in athletic performance. Dr. Brager critiques common sleep advice, sharing insights on effective sleep supplements and strategies for optimizing recovery. Additionally, she explores the unique sleep challenges faced by military personnel and athletes, emphasizing how travel and training schedules can impact overall rest and performance.

Join me, Dr. Mike T. Nelson, on the Flex Diet Podcast as I sit down with Dr. Jeremy Townsend to explore the fascinating world of adaptogens. We’re diving deep into how compounds like Rhodiola rosea, ashwagandha, and eleuthero can enhance performance, support muscle growth, and improve body composition—all without compromising overall health.Throughout our conversation, we discuss what the research says about these powerful herbs, including how they influence stress resilience, recovery, and athletic performance. Dr. Townsend also unpacks the science behind optimal dosages, potential mental and physical stress effects, and the nuances of using adaptogens effectively. Beyond that, we discuss the often-overlooked role of micronutrition in maximizing performance and overall well-being, an area that too many athletes neglect.We also touch on how AG1 contributes to the field of nutritional science and why paying attention to the right vitamins and minerals can make a measurable difference in training outcomes. If you’re looking for evidence-based insights on adaptogens, recovery, and performance, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comDr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.Flex 4: Check out Dr. Townsend's top nutrients that most people are missing: https://miketnelson.com/flex4/Triphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:03:21 Dr. Townsend's Background and Research04:52 Understanding Adaptogens06:58 Adaptogens for Sports Performance10:12 Quality and Standardization of Adaptogens14:00 Sourcing and Economic Considerations24:35 Client Reactions to Ashwagandha24:54 Exploring the Benefits of Ashwagandha25:58 Personalizing Supplementation27:55 Different Forms of Ashwagandha and Adaptogens30:25 Ginseng and Its Mixed Data32:28 The Complexity of Supplement Bioavailability38:35 The Role of Micronutrients in Health45:49 AG1 and Future Research Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 293: Optimizing Athletic Performance with Ben Mayfield-Smith Episode 273: Unlocking Better Sleep: Insights and Strategies from Dr. Chris PerryConnect with Dr Townsend:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jtownsendphd/AG1 Website: https://drinkag1.com/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m recording from sunny Mexico and sitting down with James LaValle, a powerhouse in metabolism and performance health. We dive deep into liposomal delivery, blood work, magnesium benefits, key dietary supplements, and why balancing your sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems is crucial for optimal performance.James shares his journey from writing Cracking the Metabolic Code to his latest research and innovations, including magnesium, probiotics, and phospholipids—and how they fit into a performance-driven approach to health. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or just someone looking to level up your well-being, this episode is packed with practical takeaways.Plus, I share my personal supplement recommendations and give you a sneak peek at upcoming product reviews. Tune in now!Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comDr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.Triphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:02:56 James LaValle's Background and Philosophy06:13 The Importance of Nutrition and Recovery12:11 Balancing Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Systems18:52 The Role of Trace Minerals and Gut Health30:54 Neuroinflammation and Athletic Performance37:35 Understanding Carbohydrate Dependency and Metabolic Stress38:34 The Role of Supplements in Managing Metabolic Health41:26 The Importance of Personalized Nutrition and Supplementation42:28 Common Misconceptions and Realistic Expectations of Supplements43:00 The Fundamentals of Healthy Living: Eat, Hydrate, Sleep52:11 Magnesium and Its Crucial Role in Exercise and Health58:06 Innovations in Supplement Delivery: Liposomal Formulations01:04:32 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More Information Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 251: The Role of Microbiome in Elevating Exercise and Dietary Outcomes with Dr Sara Campbell Episode 222: Expert Insights on nutrition, supplements, and training with Registered Dietician Sean CaseyConnect with Jim LaValle:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealjimlavalle/Website: https://www.jimlavalle.com/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Tommy Wood and Dr. Ben House for a deep dive into the nuances of scientific research, especially concerning body composition, muscle gain, and dietary strategies like low-carb and keto for advanced trainees.We break down common research methodologies, highlight the challenges of accurately measuring training volume, and explore why individual responses vary. Along the way, we tackle the practical aspects of collecting and interpreting data, debunk common misconceptions, and emphasize the critical role of context and nuance in applying research to real-world scenarios.If you're looking for a conversation that blends rigorous science with actionable insights, this episode is for you.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comDr. Mike's Fitness Insider Newsletter: Sign up for free at https://miketnelson.com/.Triphasic 2 book now available!Go to https://triphasic2.com/Episode Chapters:00:56 Special Lost Episode with Dr. Tommy Wood and Dr. Ben House01:55 Sponsors and Announcements03:16 Discussion on Scientific Research and Methods05:43 Challenges in Scientific Studies and Data Interpretation09:19 Variability in Research and Individual Responses40:11 Case Study: Keto Diet and Muscle Gain51:25 Carbohydrate Refeed and Glycogen Study52:56 Strength and Reps to Failure in Keto Group53:38 Ketogenic Diet and Muscle Gains59:34 Challenges of High-Calorie Diets01:04:01 Body Composition Measurement Techniques01:20:13 Real-World Diet Effectiveness01:25:48 Closing Thoughts and Future ResearchFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 178: Rebroadcast – Insulin and Glucose Myths & more with Dr Tommy WoodEpisode 141: Making Solid Science Sexy in Fitness with Dr Tommy WoodConnect with Tommy and Ben:Dr. Ben House Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbenhouseDr. Tommy Wood Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtommywood/Bro Research: https://broresearch.com/Advanced Blood Chemistry for Athletes: https://broresearch.com/courses/advbloodchem/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmiketnelson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn1aTbQqHglfNrENPm0GTpgEmail: https://miketnelson.com/contact-us/