Optimization Academy with Dr. Greg Jones

Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell, but their role in longevity and overall health goes far beyond energy production. When mitochondrial function declines, it contributes to aging, inflammation, and chronic disease. In this episode, I am excited to welcome back Dr. Elizabeth Yurth to break down why mitochondria are at the root of longevity, how to optimize mitochondrial function, and the best peptides, supplements, and lifestyle strategies to support cellular health.Dr. Elizabeth Yurth, MD, is a board-certified specialist in longevity, regenerative medicine, and orthopedics, as well as the co-founder and medical director of the Boulder Longevity Institute. She’s a leading expert in peptide therapy, cellular medicine, and age-related disease prevention.- Intro (00:00 - 00:57)- Dr. Elizabeth Yurth’s recent work in cellular medicine (00:57 - 04:34)- Why mitochondria are essential for energy and longevity (04:34 - 07:05)- Mitochondria and hormone production: The overlooked connection (07:05 - 08:20)- Mitochondrial dysfunction: The root cause of chronic disease (08:20 - 11:24)- How mitochondrial dysfunction leads to inflammation & oxidative stress (11:24 - 17:33)- Top signs & symptoms of mitochondrial dysfunction (17:33 - 24:31)- Environmental factors that damage mitochondria (toxins, stress, diet, etc.) (24:31 - 31:31)- Can we test for mitochondrial health? Biomarkers & lab tests (31:31 - 39:00)- How lifestyle impacts mitochondria: Fasting, exercise, red light therapy (39:00 - 45:15)- Best supplements for mitochondria: NAD, CoQ10, 1-MNA, creatine - and are NAD precursors like NMN & NR actually beneficial? (45:15 - 48:39)- Ketones & creatine: The ultimate mitochondrial enhancers (48:39 - 55:33)- Mitochondrial peptides: SS-31, Humanin, 5-Amino-1MQ & more (55:33 - 01:01:56)- How SS-31 repairs mitochondrial membranes & boosts energy (01:01:56 - 01:09:53)- The future of mitochondrial medicine: Mitochondrial uncouplers & new peptides (01:09:53 - 01:14:48)- Dr. Yurth’s biggest lesson on longevity & cellular medicine (01:14:48 - 01:18:08)- Where to find Dr. Yurth & learn more about mitochondrial health (01:18:08 - 01:18:30)🌐 Learn More:🔗 Boulder Longevity Institute: https://boulderlongevity.com/🔗 BLI Academy (for physician education): https://bli.academy🔗 Follow Dr. Yurth on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dryurth/🔗 Connect with Dr. Jones on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/

In this episode, Dr. Jones dives deep into gut health with the incredible Dr. Ilana Gurevich, a naturopathic gastroenterologist and expert in functional medicine. With decades of experience treating complex GI cases, Dr. Gurevich shares her personal journey with Crohn’s disease, how it shaped her career, and her unique approach to healing leaky gut, addressing autoimmunity, and optimizing overall gut health. You’ll learn why leaky gut is more than just a buzzword, how the gut impacts everything from autoimmunity to mental health, and actionable strategies for restoring gut integrity. Don’t miss this insightful conversation—it’s packed with real-world advice for both patients and practitioners! - Introduction (00:00 - 01:33)- Dr. Gurevich’s Journey: From personal Crohn’s struggles to becoming a gut health specialist. (01:33 - 06:43)- Naturopathic Gastroenterology vs. Conventional Care: The key differences and benefits. (06:43 - 08:33)- Why Gut Health Matters: Addressing IBS, IBD, and other common conditions. (08:33 - 09:58)- Turd Nerds Podcast: Dr. Gurevich’s passion project for sharing clinical insights. (09:58 - 14:38)- What is Leaky Gut?: The science behind intestinal permeability. (14:38 - 20:16)- Triggers for Leaky Gut: Stress, toxins, medications, and diet. (20:16 - 22:56)- The Role of Processed Foods: How modern diets impact gut health. (22:56 - 27:33)- Stress and the Gut-Brain Connection: Why stress is a major player in GI issues. (27:33 - 29:30)- Signs and Symptoms of Leaky Gut: From bloating to brain fog and beyond. (29:30 - 30:41)- Autoimmune Links: How gut permeability contributes to chronic conditions. (30:41 - 35:37)- Testing for Leaky Gut: Zonulin, LPS, and microbiome assessments. (35:37 - 41:07)- Healing the Gut: Dietary changes, fermented foods, and key nutraceuticals. (41:07 - 44:49)- The “Sinister Six” Foods to Avoid: Gluten, sugar, dairy, and more. (44:49 - 47:51)- Peptides for Gut Health: BPC-157, KPV, and their healing potential. (47:51 - 57:39)- Lifestyle Matters: Why healing doesn’t stop after treatment. (57:39 - 58:49)- Why Maintenance is Key: Practical tips for long-term gut health. (58:49 - 01:01:10)- Closing Thoughts (01:01:10 - 01:08:10) ***** Learn more about Dr. Gurevich: https://www.openwellnesspdx.com/ *****The Turd Nerds podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-turd-nerds/id1651253399 *****Tides Health: https://yourtides.com/ *****NuBioAge: https://nubioage.com/ *****Connect with Dr. Jones on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/

Ready to level up your health? In this exciting episode, we’re diving deep into the world of methylene blue—a game-changing compound with massive potential for brain health, energy production, and anti-aging. Joining me is Dr. Hayden Collier, PharmD, Director of Clinical Services at NuBioAge. Known for his expertise in sports science, integrative medicine, and cutting-edge therapies, Dr. Collier takes us on a journey into the science and practical uses of methylene blue. This is more than a podcast—it’s your ultimate guide to unlocking mitochondrial power, reducing oxidative stress, and achieving next-level health and longevity. Whether you're a healthcare pro or a health optimization enthusiast, this one’s for you! - Introduction (00:00 - 01:20) - Dr. Collier’s journey from traditional pharmacy to integrative medicine (01:20 - 05:57) - The history of methylene blue: From textile dye to medical breakthrough (05:57 - 08:16) - Mitochondrial function 101: Why methylene blue is unique (08:16 - 12:46) - Redox reactions and electron transport chains explained (12:46 - 16:30) - The brain benefits: Cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection (16:30 - 17:58) - Methylene blue’s potential for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s (17:58 - 23:58) - Anti-aging applications: Fighting oxidative stress and inflammation (23:58 - 26:47) - Clinical uses: Mood disorders, long COVID, and UTI prevention (26:47 - 33:04) - Skin and wound healing: A surprising benefit of methylene blue (33:04 - 40:43) - Combining methylene blue with red light therapy and other synergistic approaches (40:43 - 42:08) - Methylene blue vs. NAD+: Which one is right for you? (42:08 - 48:17) - Dosage tips, side effects, and why pharmaceutical-grade matters (48:17 - 01:00:02) - Closing thoughts: Why methylene blue is a must-have for longevity protocols (01:00:02 - 01:07:25) ***** Learn more about Dr. Collier and NuBioage:   https://www.instagram.com/haydencollier_pharmd/ https://nubioage.com/ *****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 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