BioHackers Lab: Health Show for How to Live Your Best Life

Gary Kirwan
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Apr 17, 2025 • 50min

Can a Ketogenic Diet Treat Bipolar Disorder? | Dr. Iain Campbell

In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Dr. Iain Campbell, a metabolic psychiatry researcher at the University of Edinburgh, to explore the emerging science behind using ketogenic diets as a potential treatment for bipolar disorder and other serious mental health conditions. With both scientific expertise and lived experience of bipolar type II, Iain shares how nutritional ketosis may be more than just a physical health tool — it might be a game-changer for mental health too. We dive into the connection between metabolism, brain energy, glutamate, circadian rhythms, and psychiatric medications — and what happens when these systems go off balance. Whether you're dealing with bipolar disorder, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the future of psychiatry, this episode offers deep insights and real hope. 00:00 Introduction & Why Metabolic Psychiatry Matters 01:57 Ketogenic Diet & Bipolar Disorder – Where It All Began 03:21 Iain’s Personal Battle with Bipolar & Path to Discovery 05:10 The Link Between Ketosis and Mood Stabilization 08:11 Ketone Levels – What’s Optimal for Mental Health? 12:20 Exogenous Ketones & MCT Oil for Rapid Relief 13:35 Evolution, Ketosis & Our Modern Diet 14:44 Ketosis, Mania, and Glutamate Explained 17:00 Fixing the “Engine” – Root-Cause Mental Health Solutions 18:18 The Spring Equinox & Seasonal Triggers in Bipolar 21:06 Evolutionary Advantage of Bipolar Genes? 22:25 Managing Mood Swings Through Diet 24:01 Insulin Resistance as a Driver of Psychiatric Disorders 26:37 Who Else Could Benefit from This Approach? 28:05 A Breakthrough Moment in Psychiatry’s Acceptance 31:00 How a Tweet Changed Everything 33:18 The Future of Metabolic Psychiatry Research 34:34 Diet + Medication – Why Integration Matters 36:38 The Power of a Patient-Driven Movement 39:02 Rethinking Side Effects of Psychiatric Medications 42:09 Can We Prevent Mental Illness with Early Intervention? 43:29 Hope for Young People Facing a Diagnosis 44:15 Upcoming Research & What’s Next  ▬▬ Links ▬▬▬▬▬ Follow Dr. Iain Campbell: @iaincampbellphd Learn more at: https://www.ketoforbipolar.com Watch his patient interview series: Keto for Bipolar on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7SaWFpW2U8o&list=PLzWI83-NWCL5wLVxPUIjg9fP92sl7bdhP Dr. Chris Palmer’s work: https://www.brainenergy.com Big thanks to the guys at https://octopod.productions for their fantastic audio and video editing! ✅ Check out the episode including all the extra show note links here:  ✅ Link to this YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/UZRkupq7ZCM ✅ Follow us on Twitter: https://x.com/biohackerslab ✅ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BiohackersLab ✅ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biohackers.lab/ If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who might benefit from this groundbreaking discussion. Your support helps us keep bringing these important conversations to light!Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/biohackerslabSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Feb 11, 2025 • 44min

How Red Light Helps Our Vision and Blood Glucose Levels: Dr Glen Jeffery PhD

Dr. Glen Jeffery, a neuroscience professor from University College London, discusses his pioneering research on red light therapy. He reveals how red light can recharge retinal mitochondria, enhancing vision, particularly in older adults. The conversation explores the potential of red light to regulate blood sugar levels and its broader implications for health. Jeffery warns about the detrimental effects of modern lighting, suggesting innovative solutions to improve both eye health and metabolic regulation.
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Jan 30, 2025 • 55min

Stronger at 60 vs 50 Years Old: Chris Cornell's Health Journey

On this episode of Biohackers Lab I talk to Chris Cornell. We discuss Chris's incredible journey of transformation. Despite being in poor shape at 51, Chris turned his life around through dedication to nutrition and fitness, achieving peak health well into his 60s. He shares how a low-carb diet and resistance training helped him lose excess weight sustainably and regain physical strength and muscle growth, all while overcoming challenges along the way like a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Chris also delves into his approach to satiety, meal replacements, and the importance of setting simple, consistent rules for achieving long-term fitness goals. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to make meaningful lifestyle changes, regardless of age. 00:00 Intro04:05 Was It a low carb lifestyle that made the difference?09:56 Upping protein intake11:19 Cancer diagnosis, how did Chris manage to get through it? 14:26 Exercising as a part of the journey18:13 How long did it take Chris until he could do his first pull up? 22:54 It's still achievable to go after your goals, even in your fifties26:33 HLTH Code meal replacement experiment33:03 Protein in the morning35:26 Feeling satisfied with the food that you eat reduces the hunger37:27 Explaining satiety to a potential client43:41 Implementing consistency45:23 What is Chris's next goal?49:48 Six rules for simplicity and success Big thanks to the guys at https://octopod.productions for their fantastic audio and video editing!Link to YouTube video of this interview: https://youtu.be/cupTlVF6xTMSupport the show: https://ko-fi.com/biohackerslabSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Jan 24, 2025 • 56min

Why Reduce Visceral Fat? Before vs After MRI Scans Improvement | Dr Ana Rosa MD PhD

On this episode of Biohackers Lab I talk to Dr. Ana Rosa MD PhD, a radiologist with over 25 years of experience all about the dangers of visceral fat, PLUS what she did personally to reduce her high visceral fat levels. Dr. Rosa shares her extensive knowledge and personal experience in:👉 How to deal with excess visceral fat👉 Why measuring visceral fat levels is a crucial biomarker👉 How it silently impacts our health Follow Dr Rosa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anarosagratitude/ Dr Rosa explains what visceral fat is, how it surrounds our abdominal organs, and its role in promoting chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular problems. Dr. Rosa also discusses how MRI scans can help reveal hidden visceral fat levels even in those who appear thin on the outside but are fat on the inside also known as TOFI. She  also offers practical diet, exercise, and stress management strategies she used to combat it. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on improving your internal health and functional longevity. 00:00 Intro01:08 What is visceral fat?03:06 What is a normal level of visceral fat?07:30 What kind of scan is used?09:45 How does body fat percentage relate to visceral fat levels?12:40 Proxies for visceral fat.17:25 Before and after pics of Dr. Rosa.21:50 MRI images of of people with different levels of visceral fat.26:25 Lose fat AND build muscle!33:15 Advice to people starting their fat loss journey. Importance of Stress!41:21 Nutrition advice for reducing visceral fat.44:30 Exercise advice for reducing visceral fat.49:05 What to ask your doctor about? Big thanks to the guys at https://octopod.productions for their fantastic audio and video editing! Link to YouTube video of this interview: https://youtu.be/grnmfXmFIhsSupport the show: https://ko-fi.com/biohackerslabSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Jan 14, 2025 • 1h 4min

What is the Satiety Per Calorie Model Way of Eating? | Dr. Andreas Eenfeldt

Want to understand what is the Satiety Per Calorie Model or a High Satiety Diet? Join me and Dr. Andreas Eenfeldt in this episode of Biohackers Lab as we discuss a groundbreaking approach to nutrition—the Satiety Per Calorie Model (SPC).Dr. Eenfeldt, founder and CEO of DietDoctor, introduces Hava, a new app that uses cutting-edge AI technology to help users identify foods that promote satiety and better health outcomes.We delve into various aspects of nutrition, from the impact of ultra-processed foods to practical dietary adjustments that can aid in weight loss and disease prevention when using SPC model thinking.Learn how this model could be a game-changer for diverse diet preferences, whether it’s low-carb, vegan, or carnivore. Perfect for anyone looking to optimize their diet and enhance their metabolic health.AD - Link to Hava App with the discount code BIOHACKERSLAB for a discount on a premium Hava subscription - https://www.biohackerslab.com/get/hava-app/ 00:00 Intro00:40 Understanding the Satiety Per Calorie Model02:32 The Impact of Ultra-Processed Foods05:57 Exploring the Role of Protein12:12 The Four Key Factors of Satiety23:45 Practical Applications and AI Integration32:25 Rethinking Low Carb and Diabetes Management34:20 Understanding Insulin Resistance and Diet37:07 Ketones and Mental Health39:06 Meal Replacements and Satiety Per Calorie40:42 The Impact of Ultra-Processed Foods43:07 The Satiety Per Calorie Model49:55 Personalising Your Diet with the HAVA App01:00:38 Simplifying Food Logging with AILink to YouTube video of the interview: https://youtu.be/ct0pCFuVClgSupport the show: https://ko-fi.com/biohackerslabSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Jul 27, 2020 • 25min

Matthew Amsden - What is ProofPilot?

CEO and founder of ProofPilot, Matthew Amsden, is today’s guest interview. Matthew talks to us about his company ProofPilot. He explains how it is making research easily available to consumer good companies that traditionally didn't have opportunities to run these types of studies. We then find out about the type of products that can be tested, how the research can be conducted remotely and who can participate in the studies. We also go into discussing managing placebos, using alternatives such as case controls or wait-list controls, study reliability, avoiding conflict of interest and removing incentives bias, third party review, as well as advice on how to use clinical research in the health decision making process. Go to the show notes for BioHackers Lab podcast episode 113 at https://www.biohackerslab.com/ep113-matthew-amsden/ for more links & highlights.Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/biohackerslabSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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May 28, 2020 • 24min

Dr Benjamin Jack - Custom Made Emergency Med Kit Service by Duration Health

Practicing emergency medicine physician and founder of Duration Health, Dr Benjamin Jack, is today’s guest interview. Benjamin talks to us about the emergency medicine kit service his company can provide people. He explains what type of medicine and tools the kit contains and who could benefit from getting one. We then find out about the process of obtaining one and physician support it includes. We also go into discussing where the medication comes from, the kits shelf-life, renewal process, pricing and payment options as well as advice on when it is a good idea to seek medical attention. Go to the show notes for episode 112 at BioHackers Lab https://www.biohackerslab.com/ep112-dr-benjamin-jack/ for more links & highlights.Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/biohackerslabSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Mar 10, 2020 • 35min

Sleep Apnea Help for Adults & Kids - Dr Meghna Dassani DMD

Dentist, Dr Meghna Dassani, is today’s guest interview. Meghna talks to us all about how to identify and ways to deal with sleep apnea. She explains what sleep apnea is and how to recognise the signs and symptoms. We then find out that sleep disordered breathing should never be ignored as it can lead to more serious problems and what we can do to treat it. We also go into discussing sleep apnoea in children, the importance of breastfeeding in early development, snoring, how dentist can help diagnose breathing problems, risk factors such as obesity, misdiagnosis, as well as treatments such as CPAP machines and dental braces. Go to the show notes for BioHackers Lab podcast episode 111 at https://www.biohackerslab.com/ep111-dr-meghna-dassani/ for more links & highlights.Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/biohackerslabSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Mar 4, 2020 • 57min

Danny Johnson - Meat Buying Tips from a Butcher

Captain of the American Butchers’ Guild Team and head butcher at Taylor’s Market, Danny Johnson, is today’s guest interview. Danny talks to us about how to choose the best cuts of meat for your budget. He explains why it is a good idea to build a good relationship with your butcher and how to know when you found a good one. We then find out about sourcing meat and get tips on lesser known cuts of meat, how to talk to your butcher, buying in bulk and how trends drive prices. We also go into discussing organ meat, cooking tips, freezing meat, ageing, questions to ask your butcher when buying bacon and sausages as well as the Butchers Guild mission and the World Butchers Challenge. Go to the show notes for BioHackers Lab podcast episode 110 at https://www.biohackerslab.com/ep110-danny-johnson/ for more links & highlights.Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/biohackerslabSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Feb 25, 2020 • 1h 5min

Jerry Teixeira - Why Do Bodyweight Strength Training Exercises

In this discussion, Jerry Teixeira, creator of the Bodyweight Strength Training YouTube channel, shares his minimalist approach to fitness. He emphasizes the effectiveness of bodyweight exercises and compound movements for building strength at home. JT highlights the critical need for strength training to combat age-related muscle loss and promote longevity. He provides insights on proper technique, recovery strategies, and the importance of engaging families in fitness. Tune in for practical tips and a fresh perspective on achieving health through accessible bodyweight training!

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