Intelligent Medicine

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Neil Levin, the Senior Nutrition Education Manager and a product formulator for NOW(r) Foods and Protocol for Life Balance.

Dr. Mark Horowitz, a Clinical Research Fellow in Psychiatry from the UK and co-author of “The Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines: Antidepressants, Benzodiazepines, Gabapentinoids and Z-drugs,” delves into the complexities of deprescribing psychiatric medications such as antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and sleep aids. Dr. Horowitz outlines the origins and importance of the deprescribing movement, explaining how polypharmacy and overprescription have necessitated a careful approach to reducing medication loads safely. He discusses the physiological and withdrawal challenges faced by patients on long-term psychiatric medication, emphasizing the vital role of slow and individualized tapering processes. He covers the substantial influence of pharmaceutical companies on prescription guidelines in the US compared to the UK, shedding light on the differences in medication usage and prescribing cultures. Dr. Horowitz also debunks the chemical imbalance theory of depression, arguing for a more nuanced understanding of mental health issues and their treatment. He introduces Outro, a new clinic founded by Dr. Horowitz in California, aimed at supporting individuals through the deprescribing process.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Mark Horowitz, co-author of "The Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines: Antidepressants, Benzodiazepines, Gabapentinoids and Z-drugs."

“Sitting is the new smoking”—how best to use short bouts of exercise to reduce hazards of prolonged inactivity; Should we be concerned about the chemicals used to make decaf coffee? Can tinnitus damage the brain? Berberine combats insulin resistance; A healthy diet can’t overcome the adverse effects of sleep deprivation on blood sugar control; How long should a person take Prolia for osteoporosis? Can adequate sleep fend off bone loss? Olive oil vs. dementia.

After weight loss, the type of diet you follow can forestall metabolic slow-down; Solutions for an inflamed GI tract; A new way exercise reduces heart risk—by decreasing stress in the brain; Is Zetia a good alternative to statins? What is the best natural sweetener? Supplementation with selenium and CoQ10 helps thyroid function in seniors; Alliance for Natural Health launches campaign to prevent social media censorship of truthful health information.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin “weighs in” with the distinctions between food allergies, sensitivities, and intolerances, as well as the importance of identifying and addressing them. She also delves into the potential healing of food reactivities through methods like enzyme supplementation and gut healing protocols. Emphasis is placed on reintroducing foods gradually, the impact of eating behaviors on digestion, and the significance of mindful eating for overall health and well-being.

Study: Glycemic impact the same among grains -- whole and refined; Can you comment on Spermidine as an anti-aging supplement? Does it work the same as NAD?; More comments on Consumer Labs and their critiques.

Is there anything you can suggest to people with MGUS to proactively keep multiple myeloma at bay?; Would you please comment on the recent study that showed no benefits to time-restricted eating?; Our 12-year-old grandson has Sever's disease. Any supplements you would recommend for him?

Infertility is an increasing problem. Many couples are facing challenges, but few realize that men are an important part of the fertility equation. Sperm quality is recognized to be declining worldwide. Ayla Barmmer, a Registered Dietician and functional medicine practitioner is the founder and CEO of FullWell, a fertility wellness and education brand. She discusses lifestyle factors that affect fertility: exercise, diet, weight optimization, stress, and sleep. Additionally, environmental toxicity can take a toll on sperm and egg viability. A few specific nutrients are essential for fertility optimization, which she enumerates. Not only can barriers to pregnancy be surmounted, but proper pre-conceptual planning can optimize the physical and mental health of offspring—even with lasting trans-generational effects for descendants.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Ayla Barmmer, a Registered Dietician and functional medicine practitioner, and founder and CEO of FullWell, a fertility wellness and education brand.