Rational Wellness Podcast

View the Show Notes For This Episode Dr. Pejman Katiraei discusses Neurodevelopment Disorders in Children with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights Uncovering the Root Causes of Pediatric Neurodevelopmental Disorders with Dr. Pejman Katiraei In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, Dr. Ben Weitz interviews Dr. Pejman Katiraei, a board-certified pediatrician and integrative functional medicine expert. They discuss the increasing prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders in children, such as autism and sensory dysregulation, and explore the interconnected systems contributing to these conditions, including gut health, immune imbalances, and environmental toxins like mold. Dr. Katiraei (Dr. K) explains how he evaluates and treats children using a systems biology approach and highlights the importance of addressing environmental factors to improve quality of life. The episode provides insights into specific tests, detox strategies, and the role of microglia and mitochondrial health in managing these disorders. 00:00 Introduction to Rational Wellness Podcast 00:29 Meet Dr. Pejman Katiraei: Pediatrician and Functional Medicine Expert 00:53 Understanding Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Children 02:50 The Role of Mitochondria, Immune System, and Gut Health 06:06 Environmental Toxins and Their Impact on Children's Health 11:20 Microglia and Neuroplasticity: The Brain's Immune Protectors 16:43 Early Signs of Neuroinflammation in Infants 25:20 The Connection Between Gut Health and Neurodevelopmental Disorders 29:41 Energy Efficient Homes and Mold Issues 30:05 Building Standards and Mold Problems 30:36 Health Impacts on Children 31:01 Alternatives to Drywall 31:41 Environmental Standards and Mold Testing 32:42 Impact of Climate Change on Mold 33:25 Testing for Mold Exposure 34:36 Case Studies and Clinical Suspicion 44:08 Effective Detox Strategies 53:47 Conclusion and Resources Dr. Pejman Katiraei is an Integrative Pediatrician and his Santa Monica practice is called Wholistic Kids and Families. He got his undergraduate degree from UCLA and he obtained his osteopathic medical degree from Western University and completed a pediatric residency at Loma Linda University and he has also completed two fellowships in integrative medicine. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

View the Show Notes For This Episode Josh Dech discusses The Mold-Gut Health Connection with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, Dr. Ben Weitz interviews Josh Dech, a functional nutritionist, medical herbalist, and co-founder of Gut Health Explained. Josh shares his personal battle with gastrointestinal issues, detailing how environmental toxins, mold exposure, and gut pathogens contributed to his inflammatory bowel disease. He explains his method of detoxing and healing the gut through steps that include drainage, removal of toxins and parasites, and replenishment of essential nutrients. Josh also delves into topics like mast cell activation, managing high histamine foods, and the importance of rewilding the microbiome with natural probiotics. The discussion includes practical strategies for diagnosing and treating gut health issues, emphasizing a tailored and holistic approach to functional medicine. 00:54 Guest Introduction: Josh Dech's Health Journey 01:24 Josh's Personal Health Struggles 03:22 Turning Point: Seeking Solutions 05:00 Steps to Gut Health Recovery 05:35 Detoxification and Drainage Explained 06:24 Herbal Remedies and Liver Support 13:11 Testing and Addressing Environmental Toxins 18:39 Parasite Protocols and Treatment 24:13 Understanding Toxins and Immune System Overload 24:20 Introducing the Apollo Wearable 25:51 Parasites, Mold, and Fungal Overgrowth 27:31 Dietary Considerations for Gut Health 28:58 Managing Constipation with Binders 30:08 Debunking the Autoimmune Theory of IBD 33:32 Healing the Gut: A Step-by-Step Approach 40:19 Rewilding and Probiotics Josh Dech of the Gut Health Solution is a holistic nutritionist, a Functional Medicine practitioner, and IBD specialist, who helps people with Crohn's and Colitis reverse their symptoms and get their lives back using a root-cause approach that focuses on the immune system, microbiome, and the triggers most doctors miss. His website is The Gut Health Solution and his podcast is Reversing Crohn's and Colitis Naturally. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

View the Show Notes For This Episode Dr. William Davis discusses How to Lose Visceral Fat with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights Restoring Health and Redefining Weight Loss: A Discussion with Dr. William Davis In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, Dr. Ben Weitz hosts Dr. William Davis, a renowned cardiologist, and bestselling author. They delve into Dr. Davis's new book, 'Super Body,' which emphasizes the importance of muscle preservation and metabolic rejuvenation over conventional weight loss methods. Dr. Davis critiques the calorie-in-calorie-out model and the use of popular weight loss drugs. He highlights the need to restore muscle mass and improve metabolic health through innovative approaches, including addressing SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), enhancing the microbiome with specific probiotics, and ensuring proper nutrition that avoids grains and sugars. The conversation explores how these strategies can lead to significant health improvements, from reducing visceral fat to enhancing overall vitality. Other key topics include the negative long-term impacts of conventional weight loss methods, the importance of collagen and hyaluronic acid, and the often-overlooked benefits of carotenoids and other phytonutrients. They also discuss practical strategies for sustaining muscle mass and metabolic health, ultimately promoting a longer and healthier life. 00:00 Introduction to the Rational Wellness Podcast 00:30 Introducing Dr. William Davis and His New Book 01:40 The Problem with Conventional Weight Loss Methods 03:32 The Role of Muscle Loss in Weight Regain 10:18 The Impact of SIBO on Muscle and Weight Loss 23:51 Addressing SIBO with High-Count Probiotics 36:16 Survivor of Sudden Cardiac Death 37:18 The Role of Small LDL Particles 39:01 Saturated Fats and Triglycerides 42:08 The Impact of Diet on Lipoprotein A 46:03 Restoring Nutrients and Microbes 47:24 The Importance of Collagen and Hyaluronic Acid 54:55 Ectopic Fat and Its Consequences 56:30 The Flaws of Conventional Weight Loss Methods 59:43 The Role of Oxytocin in Weight Loss 01:05:04 The Dangers of Bariatric Surgery 01:07:37 Restoring Carotenoids and Phytonutrients Dr. William Davis is a cardiologist and author of the bestselling books Wheat Belly and Super Gut and his newest book is Super Body. His website is DrDavisInfiniteHealth.com Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

View the Show Notes For This Episode Dr. Neil Nathan discusses Mold Toxicity, Lyme Disease, and Environmental Toxins with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights Understanding and Treating Complex Chronic Illnesses with Dr. Neil Nathan In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, host Dr. Ben Weitz interviews Dr. Neil Nathan, an expert in treating complex chronic illnesses such as mold toxicity, Lyme disease, mast cell activation syndrome, and multiple chemical sensitivities. Dr. Nathan shares insights from his 50-year career, including how to identify these conditions through specific symptoms and the importance of environment assessment. They discuss effective testing methods, treatment approaches, and managing coexisting conditions. The conversation also covers the role of mold in these chronic illnesses and underlines the necessity of personalized treatment plans. Dr. Nathan also touches on the significance of limbic and vagal nerve treatments and shares his experience with various diagnostic and therapeutic tools. 00:00 Introduction to the Rational Wellness Podcast 00:29 Meet Dr. Neil Nathan: Pioneer in Treating Complex Chronic Illnesses 02:02 Understanding Mold Toxicity and Lyme Disease 05:58 Testing for Mold and Lyme: Effective Methods and Challenges 18:26 Mast Cell Activation Syndrome: Symptoms and Diagnosis 21:31 Approach to Treating Complex Patients 28:16 Mold Treatment Protocols and Environmental Considerations 31:25 Understanding Mycotoxin Binders 32:00 Antifungal Treatments for Mold Colonization 32:22 Detoxification Strategies and Patient Sensitivity 35:00 Combination Binders and Patient Sensitivity 39:45 Probiotics and Antibiotics for Lyme and Bartonella 45:42 Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and Limbic System Reboot 51:50 Common Mistakes in Treating Chronic Illness 58:01 Final Thoughts and Resources Dr. Neil Nathan is a Medical Doctor who is a pioneer in the treatment of complex chronic illnesses including mold toxicity, Lyme disease, mast cell activation syndrome, multiple chemical sensitivities, and other environmental illnesses. Dr. Nathan has spent 50 years treating some of the most sensitive and complex patients recover their health and studying and learning and teaching how to treat such patients. He has written a number of books, including On Hope and Healing, Healing is Possible, Mold and Mycotoxins: Current Evaluation and Treatment 2016 (just updated, as an e-book, Mold and Mycotoxins 2022), Toxic 2nd edition: Heal Your Body from Mold Toxicity, Lyme Disease, Multiple Chemical Sensitivities and Chronic Environmental Illness, Energetic Diagnosis, and The Sensitive Patient's Healing Guide. His website is NeilNathanMD.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

View the Show Notes For This Episode Dr. Eric Osansky discusses Overcoming Hyperthyroidism without Radiation or Surgery with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights Understanding and Managing Hyperthyroidism with Dr. Eric Osansky In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, Dr. Ben Weitz speaks with Dr. Eric Osansky, a leading expert on hyperthyroidism, about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for this overactive thyroid condition. They discuss the differences between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, focusing on autoimmune hyperthyroidism, known as Graves' disease. Dr. Osansky shares his personal experience overcoming Graves' disease using natural, functional medicine approaches, avoiding conventional treatments like antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine, and surgery. Key topics include the role of diet, stress management, gut health, and detoxification in managing hyperthyroidism, as well as specific supplements and herbs like bugleweed and low-dose naltrexone. The episode emphasizes the importance of addressing the underlying causes of the condition, rather than merely treating symptoms, to achieve long-term health. 00:00 Introduction to the Rational Wellness Podcast 00:30 Understanding Hyperthyroidism and Graves Disease 01:28 Symptoms and Diagnosis of Hyperthyroidism 02:02 Dr. Eric Osansky's Expertise and Personal Journey 05:04 Thyroid Eye Disease and Conventional Treatments 06:13 Functional Medicine Approach to Hyperthyroidism 18:54 Impact of Environmental Toxins and Gut Health 22:15 Iodine's Role in Thyroid Health 29:27 Natural Treatment Strategies for Hyperthyroidism 35:28 Effective Supplements for Adrenal Function 36:03 Herbal Remedies for Adrenal Support 38:01 Gut Health and the 5R Protocol 39:45 Addressing Toxins in Your Environment 41:37 Nutritional Supplements for Thyroid Conditions 44:10 Managing Hyperthyroidism with Natural Remedies 49:04 The Role of Functional Medicine in Thyroid Health Dr. Eric Osansky is a chiropractor and one of the leading experts on a natural approach to hyperthyroidism. He was personally diagnosed with autoimmune hyperthyroidism, also known as Graves' disease, and he was able to overcome it using a natural, Functional Medicine approach. He avoided both the prescription antithyroid medications and the radioactive iodine treatment, as well as thyroid surgery. He has a Masters of Science degree in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine, is a Certified Clinical Nutritionist, is a certified nutrition specialist and a certified functional medicine practitioner for IFM. Dr. Osansky has published 3 books, Natural Treatment Solutions for Hyperthyroidism and Grave's Disease, currently in its third edition, Hashimoto's Triggers, and The Hyperthyroid Healing Diet. His website is SaveMyThyroid.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

View the Show Notes For This Episode Dr. Leonard Weinstock discusses Innovative Solutions for Mast Cell Activation Syndrome with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights Understanding Mast Cell Activation Syndrome with Dr. Leonard Weinstock In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, Dr. Ben Weitz and guest Dr. Leonard Weinstock explore Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), its symptoms, and diagnosis. Dr. Weinstock, an expert in internal medicine and gastroenterology, explains the challenges of diagnosing MCAS, the importance of recognizing overlapping conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and POTS, and the role of chemical mediators. He shares insights into the condition's impact on various systems, discusses diagnostic tests, and detailed treatment protocols including the use of antihistamines, low-dose naltrexone, and diets. The discussion also delves into the story of Dr. Weinstock's grandson's battle with MCAS, and ends with considerations for managing related conditions and further educational resources. 00:00 Introduction to the Rational Wellness Podcast 00:26 Understanding Mast Cell Activation Syndrome 01:42 Symptoms and Misdiagnosis of MCAS 02:36 Dr. Weinstock's Expertise and Research 03:14 Identifying MCAS in Patients 06:50 Common Symptoms and Triggers of MCAS 18:55 Diagnosing MCAS: Tests and Challenges 27:35 Managing and Treating MCAS 35:50 Introduction to Multiple Chemical Sensitivities 36:52 Understanding Alpha Gal Syndrome 37:55 Exploring TILT and Mast Cell Activation 38:53 Diagnosing and Treating Alpha Gal Syndrome 40:17 Mast Cell Activation Syndrome Treatments 43:53 Case Study: Mold Exposure and Neural Retraining 45:45 Dietary Strategies for Mast Cell Activation Syndrome 47:25 Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Mast Cell Activation 49:47 Personal Story: Treating Max's Mast Cell Activation 54:25 The Importance of Recognizing Mast Cell Activation Syndrome 54:58 Documentary on Stealth Syndromes 01:02:14 Contact Information and Resources 01:05:07 Conclusion and Podcast Sign-Off Dr. Leonard Weinstock is Board Certified in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, practicing in St. Louis, Missouri. He is president of Specialists in Gastroenterology and the Advanced Endoscopy Center. He teaches at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and is an Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine and Surgery at Washington University School of Medicine. Dr. Weinstock is an active lecturer, including having spoken at some SIBO conferences, and he has published more than 70 articles, editorials, and book chapters. He has teamed with Dr. Lawrence Afrin to research and publish articles on Mast Cell Activation syndrome and gastroenterology. His contact info is at Specialists in Gastroenterology and his phone is 314-997-0554. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

View the Show Notes For This Episode Dr. Peter Bongiorno discusses Natural Solutions for Depression and Anxiety with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights An Integrative Approach to Managing Depression and Anxiety with Dr. Peter Bongiorno In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, Dr. Ben Weitz talks with Dr. Peter Bongiorno, a naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist, about an integrative approach to treating depression and anxiety. They explore how conventional treatments often fail to address underlying issues and discuss the potential benefits of functional medicine. The conversation covers dietary recommendations, the role of neurotransmitters, and the use of various supplements and lifestyle changes to support mental health. They also touch on the significance of vagal nerve tone, the impact of social media, and the importance of personalized patient care. 00:00 Introduction to the Rational Wellness Podcast 00:30 Understanding Depression and Anxiety 01:33 Meet Dr. Peter Bongiorno 02:23 The Integrative Approach to Mood Disorders 07:30 The Role of Neurotransmitters 16:47 Diet and Mood Disorders 18:46 The Mediterranean Diet Explained 22:33 Alcohol and Coffee: Effects on Mood 26:46 Low Carb and Ketogenic Diets 29:05 Product Spotlight: The Apollo Wearable 29:56 Benefits of Apollo Neuro 30:36 Key Lab Tests for Patients 33:56 Importance of Sleep 34:44 Supplements for Sleep 35:54 Nutritional Supplements for Depression and Anxiety 41:57 The Role of Lithium in Mental Health 46:50 Impact of Social Media on Mental Health 49:24 Vagus Nerve and Mental Health 52:28 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Dr. Peter Bongiorno is a Naturopathic Doctor and Acupuncturist and he is the co-director of InnerSource Natural Health and Acupuncture, with offices in New York City and on Long Island. He also works with clients around the world via phone or Zoom. Dr. Bongiorno did research at the National Institutes of Health in the department of Neuroimmunology and then went to Bastyr University to study naturopathic medicine and acupuncture. He wrote a number of books, including Healing Depression in 2010 and Holistic Solutions for Anxiety and Depression in 2015, both targeted for physicians, as well as How Come They're Happy and I'm Not, and Put Anxiety Behind You: The Complete Drug Free Program. His website is DrPeterBongiorno.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

Dr. John Douillard discusses Ayurvedic Longevity with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights Dr. John Douillard is a globally recognized leader in natural health, Ayurveda, and sports medicine. Dr. Douillard is the founder of LifeSpa.com, one of the most popular Ayurvedic health resources online, and the author of seven books, including Body, Mind, and Sport, The 3-Season Diet, and Eat Wheat. He has also served as the Director of Player Development for the New Jersey Nets, where he helped professional athletes use Ayurvedic principles to enhance performance and recovery. Dr. Douillard now directs the LifeSpa Ayurvedic Clinic in Boulder, Colorado, where he integrates ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with cutting-edge modern science. His website is LifeSpa.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

Dr. Matthew Budoff, a renowned preventative cardiologist, dives into cutting-edge advancements in cardiovascular health. He discusses the importance of lipids in disease prevention and introduces bempedoic acid as a powerful statin alternative. Insights on the benefits of purified EPA fish oil and the effects of testosterone on cardiovascular risks are explored. Plus, he highlights the promising outcomes of aged garlic extract for coronary health and the impact of red yeast rice and citrus bergamot on cholesterol management.

View the Show Notes For This Episode Dr. Maria Sophocles discusses The Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights Understanding the Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause with Dr. Maria Sophocles on the Rational Wellness Podcast In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, host Dr. Ben Weitz discusses the musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause with Dr. Maria Sophocles, a board-certified OBGYN specializing in women's health. The conversation covers how the drop in estrogen levels during menopause significantly impacts muscles, bones, joints, and connective tissues, leading to increased risks of musculoskeletal pain, sarcopenia, osteopenia, and osteoarthritis. The discussion also explores the importance of hormone replacement therapy, the role of estrogen as an anti-inflammatory and anabolic hormone, and the necessity of strength training in mitigating the effects of menopause. Dr. Sophocles also touches on related topics like heart disease, the timing hypothesis for hormone therapy, and practical steps women can take to maintain their musculoskeletal health. 00:00 Introduction to the Rational Wellness Podcast 00:40 Guest Introduction: Dr. Maria Sophocles 02:20 Understanding Menopause and Hormones 05:53 Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause 08:11 The Role of Estrogen in Joint and Muscle Health 11:56 Hormone Replacement Therapy: Benefits and Controversies 22:49 Strength Training and Sarcopenia Prevention 34:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts __________________________________________________________________ Dr. Maria Sophocles is a board-certified OB/GYN who specializes in women's health across the lifespan. She is the Medical Director of Women's Healthcare of Princeton www.princetongyn.com and she is the author of a forthcoming book, "The Bedroom Gap," on sex in midlife. Dr. Sophocles is also the CMO of EMBR Labs, a Boston-based wellness device company EMBRLabs.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.