

Optimize Paleo by Paleovalley
Paleovalley
Take control of your health by moving beyond the Paleo template and learning about cutting edge health strategies that really work. This podcast will give you tips and tricks from the mouths of experts and common folk alike who discovered exactly what it takes to THRIVE. Join Chas and Autumn Smith, loving and passionate husband and wife and founders of Paleovalley.com as they guide you on the journey to cultivate vibrant health and wellness.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 24, 2023 • 49min
EP296: The Healing Power of Spices & Turmeric with Dr. Aggarwal
Did you know that certain spices, particularly turmeric, have demonstrated the ability to turn off inflammation and positively impact gene expression? It sounds crazy, but spices are one of our most potent and underrated medicines. Which is why in today’s podcast with biochemist, Dr. Bharat Aggarwal, a former professor at University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and expert on cytokines, the role of inflammation in cancer, and the anti-cancer effects of spices and herbs, we take a deep dive into exactly why turmeric and other spices are so powerful. And also why most doctors today are not talking about them. Here are some of the fascinating highlights from our conversation: Two uses of turmeric for children Why the FDA denied his patent The viruses turmeric can kill The toxic dose of turmeric The truth about turmeric and its bioavailability The only downside to turmeric How turmeric turns off inflammation How to determine how much turmeric you need The difference between curcumin and turmeric How turmeric compares to anti-inflammatory drugs The brain benefits of turmeric Why one of his papers was retracted Other spices and their benefits And so much more! Please share this podcast with those you love and stay healthy, friends! Resources: Paleovalley Superfood Golden Milk >>> Experience the soothing benefits of Turmeric + Ginger & Cinnamon with Paleovalley’s NEW Superfood Golden Milk HERE! Paleovalley Turmeric Complex >>> Support Healthy Joints + Brain Health with Paleovalley’s Turmeric Complex HERE! Dr. Bharat Aggarwal, Ph.D. >>> Learn More About Dr. Aggarwal’s Research HERE! NutriSense - Continuous Glucose Monitoring >>> Learn More About NutriSense + Claim Your Exclusive Discount HERE!Use Discount Code: OPTIMIZE at Checkout for $30 OFF

Feb 10, 2023 • 53min
EP295: Intuitive Fasting with Dr. Will Cole
This week’s podcast, with author and top 50 functional medicine doctor, Dr. Will Cole, is all about INTUITIVE FASTING. While it may seem counterintuitive, intuitive fasting is a powerful practice that can help you access your intuition and find a fasting rhythm that honors your health and changing circumstances. It allows you to step into the driver’s seat of your health, and it’s a gentle, gradual approach that begins with simple overnight fasts. I have been using this practice for years, but never knew quite how to articulate the concept until I read his book. Dr. Cole is brilliant and I sincerely hope this conversation is as helpful and powerful for you - as it has been for me. Here’s what we chat about… Why some people were triggered by his book What intuitive fasting is How fasting helps us access our intuition The benefits of fasting His favorite fasts for improving metabolic health The difference between caloric restriction and fasting An intuitive fasting regimen for beginners Who should not fast How to fast with your cycle A good time to increase carbs during your cycle Fasting-approved drinks and tea What to drink for cravings during a fast Supplements to use during fasting How to avoid losing muscle while fasting Enjoy! Valuable Resources: Paleovalley Apple Cider Vinegar Complex >>> Click HERE to Support Healthy Blood Sugar Levels 100% Risk-Free TODAY!
Intuitive Fasting by Dr. Will Cole >>> Discover the Flexible 4-week Intermittent Fasting Plan to Recharge Your Metabolism HERE! NutriSense - Continuous Glucose Monitoring >>> Learn More About NutriSense + Claim Your Exclusive Discount HERE! Use Discount Code: OPTIMIZE at Checkout for $30 OFF

Jan 20, 2023 • 49min
EP294: Biohacking & Connecting to Your Intuition with The Biohacker Babes
Have you tried all the popular diets and weight loss strategies, but still don’t feel your best? Many times it’s because what works for someone else - won’t always work for you. In fact, we are all unique biochemically and our needs change from season to season, so the only way to find your perfect diet and lifestyle is to tune into your body’s feedback. Which is why today’s podcast with Renee Belz and Lauren Sombarto (aka The Biohacker Babes) is devoted to beginner biohacking, optimizing the foundations of health (sleep, movement, food) and how to use technology to reconnect to your intuition. These two ladies are wise, fun, feisty and full of helpful tips and tricks. Here are some of the fascinating things you’ll learn: A common mistake that reduces sleep quality The benefits of methylene blue (and what you need to know before you buy it) How to use biohacking to get in touch with your intuition What is heart rate variability (HRV) and why you should measure it The simplest way to increase HRV Tips for better sleep How alcohol affects (HRV) and how to minimize its negative impacts Their favorite biohacking-approved wine Helpful supplements for iron issues Energizing and calming herbs The best (and worst) ways to add supplements The healing power of sound Their favorite biohacking devices And so much more! I hope you love this show as much as I did - don’t forget to tag someone in the comments who you think will love the show. Happy biohacking! Valuable Resources: Paleovalley Organ Complex>>> Experience the Benefits of Adding Organ Meats to Your diet + SAVE up to 20% HERE! The Biohacker Babes>>> Learn More + Check Out the Podcast HERE! NutriSense - Continuous Glucose Monitoring>>> Learn More About NutriSense + Claim Your Exclusive Discount HERE!Use Discount Code: OPTIMIZE at Checkout for $30 OFF

5 snips
Jan 6, 2023 • 58min
EP293: Eating for Healthy Babies and Mommas with Lily Nichols
Children born to moms with poorly controlled blood sugar during pregnancy have a 6-19x increased risk of diabetes or obesity. Unfortunately, our current dietary recommendations for carbohydrates during pregnancy are way too high for many individuals which can cause unstable blood sugar. Many leading organizations also claim that vegan diets are safe for pregnancy, yet, according to registered dietician, Certified Diabetes Educator and author, Lily Nichols, there are many reasons to doubt their safety. To help feel empowered rather than confused around prenatal nutrition, this week's podcast is devoted to how to eat for the healthiest pregnancy and children possible. Here are some of my favorite takeaways: Why our dietary guidelines for pregnancy are a house of cards The nutrient we should be getting 3x more of The 4 nutrients you need to avoid anemia Two little-known nutrients for bone health (according to new research!) How many carbs you actually need during pregnancy Why protein recommendations are too low for later pregnancy Optimal protein targets for pregnancy The consequences of a low-fat diet for women’s hormones The nutrient deficiency linked to regressions in infancy and early childhood The nutrient 80% of American women do not get enough of during pregnancy Are vegan diets safe during pregnancy? 3 ways to upgrade your health today And so much more! If you are a mom, planning to get pregnant or know someone who is - please share this podcast so we can help spread the good word. Happy, healthy New Year, everyone! Valuable Resources: Paleovalley Superfood Bars >>> Help achieve your optimal protein intake with this nutrient-dense snack HERE! Lily Nichols, RDN >>> Learn more about real food nutrition for pregnancy & gestational diabetes HERE! Real Food for Pregnancy Book >>> Get your FREE chapter HERE! NutriSense - Continuous Glucose Monitoring >>> Learn More About NutriSense + Claim Your Exclusive Discount HERE! Use Discount Code: OPTIMIZE at Checkout for $30 Off

Dec 23, 2022 • 55min
EP292: The Benefits of Intermittent Fasting with Cynthia Thurlow
One of the tools I’ve found most helpful for people during the holiday season is intermittent fasting (IF). IF is a powerful practice that requires you eat during certain windows of time and fast the rest of the time. In other words, you don’t have to change what you eat - just when. And its benefits include… Fat burning Reduced heart disease risk Improved memory Reduced caloric intake The best part? It’s free, flexible and simple and you can still reap the benefits even if you don’t eat perfectly. (which is why it’s one of my favorite holiday tools!) To learn all about IF and its beautiful benefits check out this week’s podcast with nurse practitioner and international speaker, Cynthia Thurlow. Here are some of the fascinating takeaways… The benefits of intermittent fasting Cynthia’s morning routine How intermittent fasting affects hormones How to reduce your risk of reproductive cancers The morning drink that improves IF’s benefits The supplements you can take while fasting Fasting benefits for mental health How to reduce cravings during fasting Why fasting might be hard for you (and how to make it easier!) How to fast with your cycle When you should not fast How much protein, fat and carbohydrates we should have each day The trigger foods you may want to monitor The hormone that makes you more insulin sensitive Why alcohol can lead to weight gain And much more! Please share this podcast with anyone you think it might help and have a wonderful, healthy, happy holiday, friends! Valuable Resources: Paleovalley Apple Cider Vinegar Complex >>> Click HERE to Support Healthy Blood Sugar Levels 100% Risk-Free TODAY! Intermittent Fasting Transformation by Cynthia Thurlow >>> Learn MORE about Cynthia’s work + Get her book HERE!

Dec 9, 2022 • 1h 6min
EP291: Healing Food Sensitivities with Steven Wright
The incidence of food reactions (allergies, intolerances, sensitivities) is on the rise. But what many people don't know is that it is possible to heal certain types of food reactions. (Celiac Disease and food allergies, being a notable exception:) When my son was younger he reacted to several foods like wheat, corn, dairy and sometimes even chocolate. And while the elimination diet did help us manage his symptoms - avoiding so many foods was stressful, especially as he started going to school. Thankfully, my dear friend Steven Wright (engineer, gut expert and founder of Healthy Gut) helped me heal my son’s food sensitivities from the root. Today, my son can essentially eat all foods except for those that contain gluten. This change was so miraculous for our family, that I invited Steven on to the podcast this week so that he can teach you all how to heal food sensitivities from the root. Here are some of the fascinating tidbits we cover: What causes food sensitivities? The difference between food sensitivities and food allergies 3 little known reasons the incidence of food reaction is rising Why PPIs can be dangerous Why stomach acid is not the enemy The most common food reactions 3 issues that underlie food sensitivities The incredible importance of short chain fatty acid (and how to find them) Why food elimination diets are not enough The 4 steps for healing food reactions The best supplements for healing food sensitivities How to prevent food allergies and sensitivities in kids And so much more! I hope you love this podcast as much as I did! Please tag someone in the comments who you think will benefit from this information and use these principles as you head into the holiday season. Valuable Resources: HealthyGut.com >>> Stay up to date on cutting edge gut health research & protocols + SAVE 15% with code: PALEO15 on proven products HERE! Paleovalley Apple Cider Vinegar Complex >>> Click HERE to Get up to 20% Off TODAY!

Nov 11, 2022 • 56min
EP290: How to Fast Like A Girl with Mindy Pelz
Did you know that, as a woman, your cholesterol and blood sugar levels will be higher at certain times of your menstrual cycle? Which can not only affect how you feel and what you should eat, but may also affect whether or not you’re prescribed medication. Women are also stronger, smarter and calmer during certain periods of the cycle, and should eat more carbs and avoid fasting at other times. Sadly, because most health-based research has been based on men, most women never understand these important nuances. Which is why in today’s podcast with bestselling author, keynote speaker, nutrition and functional health and fasting expert, Dr. Mindy Pelz, we talk all about why women MUST approach their health differently and how to customize your diet and lifestyle to leverage your hormone-centric advantages. Here are some of the fascinating takeaways: How cholesterol levels change during your cycle Why glucose levels are higher at certain times in your cycle Is higher cholesterol dangerous for women? A little-known underlying cause of high cholesterol in women The negative impact of statins on the brain What women MUST know to fully understand their health When you are the strongest and most capable during your cycle When to eat more carbs during your cycle The hormone that protects your brain What to eat at different parts of your cycle What a hormone feast is and how to do it When you should always avoid alcohol The 4 components of a fasting lifestyle When to do a carnivore diet and when to eat more veggies When to use the sauna, red light and cold therapy during your cycle Hyperbaric oxygen and its utility for healing hormones And so much more! Do not miss this conversation if you are (or love) a woman or are the parent of a young woman. It is a truly POWERFUL conversation that will forever change your approach to women’s health. Valuable Resources:
Paleovalley Organic Supergreens >>> Click HERE to boost your leafy green intake with Paleovalley’s Supergreens — NOW in 3 Flavors!
Fast Like a Girl by Mindy Pelz >>> Learn more about the book + Receive a FREE bonus course when you order HERE!

Oct 28, 2022 • 60min
EP289: Food as Medicine, Fitness & Celebrity Beauty Secrets with Sally Pressman
Twenty million Americans today suffer from chronic digestive issues. Actress Sally Pressman, (you may have seen her as “Roxy” from Army Wives or on Grey’s Anatomy, Younger, Good Girls, etc.) became one of them when she was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis in 2009. Her doctor said medications were her only option, but after a few days of self-directed dietary change - her symptoms were gone. I met Sally when I worked at the Tracy Anderson Method. Her work ethic, kindness, and bubbly personality quickly made her one of my favorite clients and I am thrilled to share her beautiful soul and remarkable story in this week’s podcast. We talk about all gut healing and the fitness and beauty secrets that made Sally one of Hollywood’s elite. Here are some of the highlights… The exercise method Sally (and I) are obsessed with The realities of living with an autoimmune illness Why doctors do not talk about nutrition The diet that helped manage her autoimmune condition A day in the life of Sally’s diet The food Sally always avoids Her favorite natural sweetener Sally’s favorite brand of chocolate and go-to snacks Sally’s favorite paleo bakery and cinnamon rolls (that you can get nationwide!) Her daughter’s favorite protein snack Sally’s skin and supplement secrets Sally’s experience with keto and intermittent fasting Sally’s role model And so much more! Please share this podcast with anyone you think it might benefit and thanks for listening! Valuable Resources: Paleovalley Chocolate Bone Broth Protein Powder >>> Enjoy a sweet treat PLUS all the benefits of Collagen-Rich Grass Fed bone broth with our NEW! Chocolate Bone Broth Protein!

Oct 7, 2022 • 54min
EP288: Clearing up the Major Meat Misconceptions with Dr. Frédéric Leroy
Red meat is one of the most controversial foods in our modern-day diet. On one hand - it’s a food we’ve been consuming for millions of years that provides some of our most valuable nutrients. Yet, according to the 2019 Global Burden of Disease report, there is no safe level of red meat consumption. To help you wade through the controversies and find the truth we have food scientist and scientific advisor, Dr. Frédéric Leroy on the podcast this week! Dr. Leroy has been instrumental in ensuring the science around red meat and animal products is accurately represented in publications like the Global Burden of Disease, and has some surprising updates about the legitimacy of its claims. If you’re confused about whether animal products and processed meats are healthful or harmful - you do not want to miss this show! Here are some of the highlights…. Why Kellogg’s cereal and fake meats were created Why The Global Burden of Disease is flawed The problem with red meat research The difference between plant and animal protein The population who may want to avoid too much red meat Are processed meats dangerous? The most dangerous processed foods The difference between meats fermented and processed meats Does meat cause cancer? The important difference between hazard and risk Are vegetable oils toxic? And much more! Please tune in and share this important message with everyone you think may benefit. Valuable Resources: Paleovalley 100% Grass Fed Beef Sticks >>> Try Naturally Fermented 100% Grass Fed Beef Sticks HERE! Animal Source Foods in Ethical, Sustainable, and Healthy Diets >>> Click HERE to Read the Article

Sep 22, 2022 • 48min
EP287: How to Reduce Chronic Pain Naturally with Dr. Ryan Wohlfert
According to the CDC, an estimated 50 million adults (1 in 5 adults) experience chronic pain and in 2017 more than 191 million prescriptions were written for opioid pain medications that cause 17,000 overdose deaths annually. Those who suffer from chronic pain not only have a significantly reduced quality of life, but are also 3x more likely to experience anxiety and depression and have double the risk of suicide. And while many of us believe that pain is just a natural part of the aging process, there are many common, little-known causes and simple strategies you can use to reduce chronic pain naturally. Tune into this week’s podcast with Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician and Certified Chiropractic BioPhysics® physician, Dr. Ryan Wohlfert to learn about 3 main causes of chronic pain and 3 steps you can take today to start reducing chronic pain. Here are some of the highlights: The morning strategy that reduces chronic pain How to know if you’re experiencing chronic pain The problem with using Tylenol and Advil for chronic pain The 3 main causes of pain Why pain can be positive The link between posture, pain, and lifespan 2 ways to assess your posture at home The top 3 chemical exposures related to chronic pain The link between refined sugar & pain The link between pain & mental health 3 steps to letting go of (and preventing) trapped emotions Regrowing cartilage in the spine How to address shin pain And much more! Please share this podcast with anyone you think it may help and share your thoughts in the comments below. Valuable Resources: Paleovalley Turmeric Complex >>> Click HERE to Support a Healthy Inflammation Response Naturally with Paleovalley’s Turmeric Complex! Dr. Ryan Wohlfert - Total Health Spine & Nutrition >>> Click HERE to Learn more about the Natural Solutions to Chronic Pain Masterclass