Optimization Academy with Dr. Greg Jones

In today’s episode, I am joined by the incredible Sahar Swidan, PharmD, a pioneer in integrative and functional medicine. Dr. Swidan is President and CEO of NeuroPharm and Former CEO of Pharmacy Solutions in Ann Arbor, MI and Adjunct Associate Professor of Clinical Research and Leadership at George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, and Adjunct Clinical Associate Professor of Pharmacy at Wayne State University. She is an internationally renowned speaker in the areas of pain management, headaches, and HRT. She has authored several book chapters, articles, and patient education material in head and general pain management and personalized medicine.    In this talk, we explored the transformative power of combining East and West medicine, the mechanisms behind low-dose naltrexone (LDN), and its applications in autoimmune diseases, inflammatory conditions, and beyond. Plus, we dove into the burgeoning use of ketamine in mental health and pain management.  Today’s Topics: - Intro (00:00 - 01:58) - Dr. Swidan's Journey: From academia to integrative medicine.(01:58 - 03:00) - East Meets West: The magic of combining traditional and functional medicine.(03:00 - 05:58) - Crunchy Munchy vs. Allopathic Medicine: Why balance is key.(05:58 - 12:43) - Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN): What it is and how it works.(12:43 - 17:27) - Immune Modulation with LDN: Balancing TH1, TH2, and histamine pathways.(17:27 - 24:58) - Inflammation and Autoimmune Conditions: How LDN helps.(24:58 - 29:26) - LDN as a Gerotherapeutic: Slowing down inflammation-driven aging.(29:26 - 35:57) - LDN for Crohn's Disease and IBD: Real results and gut healing.(35:57 - 43:03) - LDN and Hashimoto’s: Reducing antibodies and improving thyroid function.(43:03 - 46:34) - Ketamine in Medicine: Treating depression, PTSD, and chronic pain. (46:34 - 48:22) - Rapid Antidepressant Effects: Why ketamine works so fast.(48:22 - 53:53) - Ketamine for Fibromyalgia: A potential game-changer.(53:53 - 01:06:36) - Ketamine Risks and Safety: What patients and clinicians need to know. (01:06:36 - 01:18:17) ***** Learn more about Dr. Swidan: https://sahar.world/     *****Connect with Dr. Jones on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/         *****Connect with Enovative Wellness Center on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GregJonesNMD

In this episode we’re diving into the fascinating world of intermittent fasting. We’ve all heard about the potential benefits of fasting, but what does the science really say? To help us unpack this, we’re joined by Dr. Stephen Anton, professor, researcher, and author. Dr. Anton has studied the fields of obesity, metabolism, and aging for the past 20 years and is world renowned for studying the effects of intermittent fasting on health, fitness, and longevity. Dr. Anton is an expert on various fasting methods, how fasting can boost brain health, support muscle building, and even strengthen the immune system. In this episode, we’ll explore fasting protocols, debunk common myths, and learn how you can start integrating fasting into your own health routine. Today’s Topics: • Intro (00:00 - 07:02) • What is intermittent fasting? (07:02 - 12:36) • 16:8 Intermittent Fasting (12:36 - 26:07) • 18:6 Intermittent Fasting (26:07 - 31:14) • 20:4 and 5/2 Intermittent Fasting (31:14 - 42:17) • How intermittent fasting can support muscle gain and recovery, and tips for timing workouts and meals. (42:17 - 50:49) • Intermittent Fasting for Longevity (50:49 - 57:01) • Does coffee break a fast? (57:01 - 01:00:39) • Best practices for breaking a fast (01:00:39 - 01:05:23) • Debunking Fasting Myths (01:05:23 - 01:13:58) ***** Learn more about Dr. Anton:  https://drstephenanton.com/ https://www.instagram.com/drstephenanton/     *****Connect with Dr. Jones on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/         *****Connect with Enovative Wellness Center on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GregJonesNMD

In this episode of Optimization Academy Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Morris and Dr. Asare B. Christian, two experts in integrative and regenerative medicine, who are transforming pain management with innovative approaches. From peptide therapies to regenerative injections, we’re exploring the latest tools that help patients find relief and heal at a deeper level. Today’s Topics - Meet Dr. Morris and Dr. Christian and hear how they transitioned from traditional to functional medicine, bringing new hope to patients dealing with pain and chronic conditions. (00:00 - 11:02) - Acute vs. Chronic Pain: The importance of understanding different types of pain and how it impacts treatment strategies, especially regarding inflammation management. (11:02 - 23:15) - When to consider imaging in chronic pain patients and how these results guide personalized treatment plans. (23:16 - 31:57) - Dr. Morris and Dr. Christian share their top lifestyle adjustments for reducing pain and inflammation naturally. (31:58 - 41:57) - Peptides for Pain Relief and Healing: A deep dive into peptides like Thymosin beta-4, Thymosin alpha-1, Pentadecapeptide Arginate (PDA), Pentosan Polysulfate, and CJC-1295/Ipamorelin, and how they support pain relief, recovery, and tissue repair. (41:58 - 1:09:32) Tune in for practical insights, cutting-edge therapies, and a fresh perspective on managing pain and inflammation. Whether you’re a physician, wellness enthusiast, or someone exploring options for chronic pain, this episode has something for you! As always, thanks for tuning in! ***** Learn more about Dr. Christian: https://www.aethermedicine.com/who-we-are/doctor-christian/ ***** Learn more about Dr. Morris: https://www.amgmedicaltucson.com/ *****Click here to subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM2Jjqb7MqtZ7VDIuRjguLA/?sub_confirmation=1 *****Connect with Dr. Jones on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/ *****Connect with Enovative Wellness Center on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GregJonesNMD

Menopause is defined as the point in a woman’s life when menstrual cycles cease, and it’s no secret that most menopausal symptoms can be relieved by bioidentical estrogen replacement. But estrogen also has essential roles in longevity and reducing the risk of heart disease. To help us break it all down, we’re joined by Dr. Cassie Smith, a board-certified endocrinologist and the founder of Modern Endocrine. Dr. Smith specializes in personalized hormone replacement therapy and helps her patients achieve balance and wellness. Today, she’ll share how optimizing estradiol can not only relieve symptoms but also improve long-term health. Today’s Topics • Intro (00:00 - 09:55) • Understanding the monthly fluctuations of estradiol in the menstrual cycle (09:55 - 20:28) • How hormone levels shift during perimenopause? (20:28 - 26:35) • What are the common symptoms of estrogen deficiency? (26:35 - 33:33) • The broader health benefits of estradiol, including its effects on heart, bone, and brain health. (33:33 - 40:44) • Exploring the pros and cons of various methods of estradiol replacement (patches, pills, creams, etc.). (40:44 - 48:26) • The importance of balancing progesterone with estradiol for safe and effective hormone replacement therapy. (48:26 - 52:58) • Key takeaways on estradiol optimization in menopausal women. (52:58 - 56:27) As always, thanks for tuning in! ***** Learn more about Dr. Smith: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/about *****Click here to subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM2Jjqb7MqtZ7VDIuRjguLA/?sub_confirmation=1     *****Connect with Dr. Jones on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/   *****Connect with Enovative Wellness Center on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GregJonesNMD

Obesity is an epidemic and is kerosine to the fire of chronic disease. We all should know to start fighting obesity with diet and exercise, but can injectable peptides be the not-so-secret weapon. Today, we delve deep into a promising candidate—Cagrilintide. This peptide has captured the attention of experts and patients alike, offering new hope through innovative mechanisms that curtail appetite and enhance weight loss. Returning to the show is Dr. Kris Wusterhausen, a seasoned Family Practice Physician and a pioneer in Age Management Medicine. At The Resurge Clinic in Weatherford, Texas, Dr. Wusterhausen is at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge treatments to empower individuals in their health journeys. Today, he'll help us unpack the science behind cagrilintide, its synergies with medications like semaglutide, its standalone potential, and the crucial aspects of its safety and efficacy. Let’s discover if cagrilintide is the missing piece in the ongoing quest to redefine weight management strategies.  Today’s Topics - Intro (00:00 - 03:44) - What is Cagrilintide? (03:44 - 04:50) - How does Cagrilintide work in the body? (04:50 - 11:42) - Can Cagrilintide be used by itself for weight loss? (11:42 - 14:28) - Cagrilintide’s synergistic effects with semaglutide (14:28 - 22:09) - Can cagrilintide be used with tirzepatide? (22:09 - 24:05) - Common and potential side effects of Cagrilintide (24:05 - 27:16) - Discussion on contraindications, similar to semaglutide or unique to Cagrilintide (27:16 - 32:03) - Dr. Wusterhausen's insights on future peptides for weight loss/metabolism (32:03 - 37:14) As always, thanks for tuning in!     ***** Learn more about Dr. Wusterhausen: https://theresurgeclinic.com/about and https://drkris.life/ *****Click here to subscribe to my channel:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM2Jjqb7MqtZ7VDIuRjguLA/?sub_confirmation=1 *****Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/  *****Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GregJonesNMD

In this episode, we are diving into the transformative world of gut heath with a focus on the keystone gut bacteria: Akkermansia. Here to help us learn more about Akkermansia is my guest, Christina O’Connor, RD. Christina is a registered dietitian with a rich background in microbiome science. From her early days in pediatrics to her current role at Pendulum Therapeutics, Christina has been a passionate advocate for understanding and harnessing the power of the microbiome to improve health outcomes. Stay tuned as we explore everything from the basics of Akkermansia to advanced applications in dietary practices and healthcare Today’s Topics: • What is Akkermansia? (00:00 - 17:38) • Why are polyphenols necessary for Akkermansia to work optimally? (17:38 - 20:16) • What causes low levels of Akkermansia in the gut and what are the symptoms? (20:16 - 25:25) • Benefits of Akkermansia supplementation and optimizing Akkermansia (25:25 - 28:51) • Is there a difference between pasteurized and live Akkermansia supplements? (28:51 - 35:41) • Pendulum's New Akkermansia Supplements: Metabolic Daily and GLP-1 Probiotic (35:41 - 46:54) As always, thanks for tuning in! *****Learn More about Akkermansia and Pendulum Therapeutics: https://pendulumlife.com/ *****Click here to subscribe to my channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM2Jjqb7MqtZ7VDIuRjguLA/?sub_confirmation=1     *****Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/     *****Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GregJonesNMD

Welcome back to The Optimization Academy with Dr. Greg Jones where I interview some of my favorite innovators in Medicine, Health, Fitness, and Beyond!  My guest today, Dr. Suzanne Ferree is a true pioneer in peptide therapy. Dr. Ferree is the senior physician at Vine Medical Associates in Atlanta, where she specializes in cutting-edge therapies such as bioidentical hormones, peptide therapy, neural therapy, and regenerative medicine. An award-winning professor, she has recently added author to her many titles with her new book Counterclockwise: Using Peptides to Renew, Rejuvenate, and Rediscover, which promises to revolutionize how we think about aging and wellness. In this episode we are discussing the following topics and more: - Dr Suzanne Ferree's background (00:00 - 07:10) - What exactly are peptides? (07:10 - 14:22) - What is the current state of peptide therapy with the recent FDA regulations? (14:22 - 20:01) - How can peptides contribute to healing and recovery? (20:01 - 25:43) - What is the role of peptides in enhancing endurance, strength, and overall performance? (25:43 - 28:03) - The importance of peptides in maintaining and improving cognitive functions and how it benefits high-level performers and athletes (28:03 - 32:11) - An overview of Dr. Ferree’s new book, Counterclockwise, its inspiration, and what readers can gain from it (32:11 - 35:48) - Dr. Ferree’s advice for aspiring medical professionals and those interested in improving their health through innovative treatments (35:48 - 38:49) As always, thanks for watching! *****Learn More about Dr. Ferree and her practice: https://vinemedical.com/ ****Get a copy of Counterclockwise: https://a.co/d/h5113tP *****Click here to subscribe to my channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM2Jjqb7MqtZ7VDIuRjguLA/?sub_confirmation=1   *****Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/    *****Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GregJonesNMD

My guest today, Tenille Davis, is a leading voice in the realm of pharmacy compounding. She serves as the Chief Advocacy Officer for the Alliance for Pharmacy Compounding and sits on the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy. With a robust background from Civic Center Pharmacy to advocacy, Tenille brings a wealth of experience to today's discussion on the intricate landscape of compounding pharmacies. In this episode, we delve into the following topics and more: - What is Pharmacy Compounding? - Comparing Clinical, Commercial, and Compound Pharmacies - The Essentials of 503A and 503B Regulations - Bulk Drug Substance Categories under 503A - Advocacy Efforts in Pharmacy Compounding - Technological Advances in Compounding As always, thanks for tuning in! *****Learn More about Tenille and the Alliance for Pharmacy Compounding: https://a4pc.org/ *****Click here to subscribe to my channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM2Jjqb7MqtZ7VDIuRjguLA/?sub_confirmation=1     *****Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/     *****Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GregJonesNMD

Welcome Dr. James Min, founder of Cleerly, an AI based software that evaluates the presence, type, and amount of plaque in heart vessels using images from a coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). This revolutionary approach is being used by providers to assess their patient’s risk for heart attack and to provide personalized treatment recommendations. In this episode we are discussing the following topics and more: The inspiration behind Cleerly and its role in detecting and predicting heart disease (00:00 - 09:47) The science of plaque and heart disease (09:48 - 14:23) Overview of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and its role in detecting coronary artery disease. (14:24 - 18:05) How does Cleerly work with CCTA images to assess heart disease risk, including the analysis of plaque type and amount (18:06 - 21:00) Who should get a Cleerly analysis? (21:00 - 39:00) As always, thanks for watching! *****Learn More about Cleerly: https://cleerlyhealth.com/ *****Click here to subscribe to my channel:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM2Jjqb7MqtZ7VDIuRjguLA/?sub_confirmation=1     *****Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/     *****Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GregJonesNM

Welcome back to The Optimization Academy with Dr. Greg Jones where I interview some of my favorite innovators in Medicine, Health, Fitness, and Beyond!  Welcome Dr. Angela DeRosa to the show. Dr. DeRosa stands out as a beacon of knowledge and empowerment. With over 25 years in the medical field, Dr. DeRosa has dedicated her career to enhancing the understanding of hormonal health, advocating for an integrative approach that combines the best of conventional and alternative care. Founder of the Hormonal Health Institute, Dr. DeRosa is passionate about empowering women and men to navigate hormonal changes with grace and knowledge. Dr. DeRosa’s enthusiasm for educating patients on the realities of menopause and hormonal health imbalances has never waned. It was the driving force behind her first bestselling book, How Your Doctor Is Slowly Killing You: A Woman’s Health Survival Guide.  In this episode we are discussing the following topics and more: Understanding Perimenopause (00:00 - 08:12) When and How Does Perimenopause Start? (08:13 - 24:43) Symptoms of Perimenopause and Their Impact (24:44 - 31:46) Integrative Approaches to Managing Perimenopause (31:47 - 40:19) Closing Thoughts and Resources (40:20 - 44:00) As always, thanks for watching! *****Connect with Dr. DeRosa: https://drhotflash.com/ *****For Prescribers: https://www.hormonalhealthinstitute.com/ *****Click here to subscribe to my channel:   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM2Jjqb7MqtZ7VDIuRjguLA/?sub_confirmation=1     *****Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/     *****Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GregJonesNMD