The Primal Shift

Lately, social media has been flooded with misconceptions from studies claiming that hormetic stressors like intermittent fasting and cold plunging are harmful to your health. In this episode, I tackle those claims, explaining the science that supports these practices as well as why recent headlines suggesting otherwise are misleading.  As most listeners know, I fast, cold plunge and sauna bathe on a regular basis, and I consider all three activities to be an integral part of my wellness routine. So I'll also share some personal insights, practical advice and nuanced perspectives to help you leverage these strategies safely and effectively. In this episode:  00:00 - Intro 02:12 - The Misleading Headlines 03:17 - Understanding Hormetic Stressors 05:56 - Hormonal Stages and Their Impact 07:28 - Personal Experience and Recommendations 09:22 - The Science of Fasting 10:55 - My Wife’s Experience with Cold Plunging 12:32 - Hormetic Stressors and Female Health 14:04 - Overall Recommendations 15:58 - Final Thoughts and Conclusion  Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations with experts in health, fitness, and beyond.   #PrimalShiftPodcast #HormeticStressors #ColdExposure #SaunaBath #Fast   Learn more: Listen to Primal Shift Podcast Episode #8: “The Power of Hormesis in Boosting Health and Resilience.” Learn about the health benefits of cold plunging and sauna use. Get tips on how to survive your first cold plunge. Learn how to make fasting easier long-term, and read my top 10 tips to curb hunger while fasting. Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, HLTH CODE!  HLTH Code meal replacement shakes, formulated by Dr. Ben Bickman, are high in protein and fat to keep you satiated, low in carbs to avoid glucose and insulin spikes, and free of unhealthy ingredients. Available in chocolate and vanilla, they mix easily with raw milk, water, or other liquids. Check out my full HLTH Code review and visit HLTH Code here. Click here to get 15% OFF your first order! More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer   

Understanding the true impact of what we eat and drink means comprehensively assessing the effect that different foods and beverages have on our bodies. So in this episode, we’re talking about the hidden truths behind foods often labeled as “healthy,” including why some so-called health foods can actually be harmful.  I'm joined by food anthropologist Dr. Bill Schindler, who brings his deep understanding of dietary science to the discussion. Together, we tackle the misconceptions surrounding plant-based superfoods and oxalates, as well as the importance of proper food preparation that is based on ancestral wisdom. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to make informed choices about their diet. It includes practical advice on how to safely prepare foods, along with insights into why developing a deeper understanding of food's biological impact is critical if your goal is optimal health. In this episode: 00:00 - Intro   02:00 - Dr. Schindler's background and approach to food  07:49 - The role of evolution in shaping human nutrition 14:18 - Safe preparation of potentially harmful foods   20:13 - Ancestral dietary practices for modern health 21:14 - Oxalates and their effects on health     24:38 - Addressing common dietary misconceptions   34:55 - The simple trick to make potatoes less toxic 41:43 - How to detoxify common vegetables and grains   44:42 - Summary and key takeaways   Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations with experts in health, fitness, and beyond.  #PrimalShiftPodcast #BillSchindler #EatSmart #ToxicPlants  Learn more: Learn why I stopped eating most vegetables, and switched to an animal-based dietary framework. Listen to Primal Shift Podcast Episode #42: Let Nature Dictate what you Should be Eating. Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin!  OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review and visit OneSkin here. About Dr. Bill Schindler: Dr. Bill Schindler is the author of Eat Like a Human: Nourishing Foods and Ancient Ways of Cooking to Revolutionize Your Health, and is an internationally-recognized archaeologist, primitive technologist and chef. He founded and directs Eastern Shore Food Lab, which has a mission of preserving and reviving ancestral dietary approaches to create a nourishing, ethical and sustainable food system. Schindler and his wife Christina also operate Modern Stone Age Kitchen, a restaurant designed to provide nourishing food created using ancestral approaches that maximize safety, nutrient density and bioavailability. In 2016, he co-starred in the National Geographic Channel series The Great Human Race, which aired in 171 countries. Email: bill@eatlikeahuman.com Website: https://eatlikeahuman.com/ Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DrBillSchindler Instagram Link: https://www.instagram.com/drbillschindler/ Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/drbillschindler/ More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer   

"Every hour, our modern lives ambush us with stressors our ancestors rarely faced."  This is the essence of our conversation today! Joined by my wife Kathy and her sister Silvia, we explore how Apollo — a small wearable device that uses inaudible soundwaves to help regulate your nervous system — has become a cornerstone of our efforts to manage stress, anxiety and migraines. We’ll also share personal stories of how Apollo has significantly enhanced sleep quality, and helped us stay calm in challenging social situations. Plus, Kathy and Silvia provide a unique perspective on the tactile stimulation device, detailing their experiences with its various modes designed to promote relaxation and focus! In this episode: 00:00 - Intro   01:52 - Discovering Apollo's Benefits   03:29 - Personal Impact on Migraines   06:10 - Using Apollo for Better Sleep   09:57 - Stress Management with Apollo   13:14 - My Wife’s Testimonial on Apollo  19:10 - Social Anxiety and Apollo’s Role   21:03 - Daily Use and Lifestyle Integration   21:00 - Health and Wellness Enhancements   24:00 - Closing Thoughts  Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations with experts in health, fitness, and beyond.  #PrimalShiftPodcast #ApolloNeuro #MentalHealth #SleepQuality  Learn more: Read my detailed Apollo Neuro review for a deep dive into how I used the device as part of my wellness regimen. Watch this YouTube video to learn about the science behind Apollo Neuro. Want to know if Apollo really works? Here’s what the research says. Get 15% off Apollo with this link. Read about my top gadgets for stress relief. Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin!  OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review and visit OneSkin here. More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer   

Our guest for this episode is Alessandra Zonari, an expert in the fields of skin regeneration and tissue engineering. During our conversation, we cover everything from how unhealthy skin can reflect and exacerbate systemic health issues to groundbreaking research on improving skin health to combat aging and chronic diseases.  In addition to her research, Zonari is the co-founder of OneSkin, a brand of skin longevity treatment products that leverage the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide (which OneSkin claims can extend skin health on a molecular level). I use OneSkin as part of my daily routine and have seen noticeable results, as shown in these before and after photos. This episode is packed with insights that can change the way you think about skincare and overall health. Join us to learn how you can enhance your health through innovative skincare strategies! In this episode: 00:00 - Introduction   01:50 - Welcoming Alessandra Zonari   02:04 - The Vital Role of Skin Health   04:25 - The Connection between Skin and Gut Health  05:09 - Clinical Insights on Skin and Systemic Inflammation   07:23 - Challenges With Ineffective Skincare Products   10:27 - Addressing Cellular Senescence in Skincare   19:10 - Innovations in Non-Invasive Skin Age Testing   21:46 - Using Ex Vivo Skin for Product Testing   25:05 - Sun Protection: Importance and Innovations   31:37 - Ensuring Safety and Efficacy in Skincare Formulation   36:12 - Closing Remarks and Additional Resources Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations with experts in health, fitness, and beyond.  #PrimalShiftPodcast #AlessandraZonari #Skincare #SkinHealth  Learn more: Diet is the main driver of skin health, but a daily skincare regimen can also help. I use OneSkin (read my review) to help keep my skin looking and feeling great.  If your skin issues are related to problems in your digestive tract, supplements like Intelligence of Nature (ION+), bovine colostrum and freeze-dried beef organs can help repair the delicate lining inside your gut and ensure you’re absorbing all the essential micronutrients your skin needs to heal. To learn more about how environmental toxins can negatively impact your skin health, check out How Xenoestrogens Make Us Sick, Fat and Infertile (with Dr. Anthony Jay) and watch my YouTube roundup of the non-toxic household and personal care products we use at home. Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, MK Supplements!  Use code “primalshift” to save 15% on your MK Supplements order at https://shop.michaelkummer.com About Alessandra Zonari: Alessanda Zonari earned her master's degree in stem cell biology, as well as her Ph.D in skin regeneration and tissue engineering, at the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil (in collaboration with the 3B's Research Group in Portugal). Her work in skin regeneration was awarded “Best Thesis” by UFMG, and she completed a second post-doctoral program at the University of Coimbra in Portugal. In 2017 she co-founded OneSkin, where she dedicated her time to understanding the mechanism underlying the aging process and developing science-based solutions to reverse the skin's biological age. She is a co-holder of five patents and has published over 20 peer-reviewed papers in scientific journals.  Email: alessandra@oneskin.co  Website: https://www.oneskin.co/  Instagram Link: https://www.instagram.com/oneskin.co Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/OneSkinTech/ Linkedin Link: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oneskin Tiktok Link: https://www.tiktok.com/@oneskin.co Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/stores/page/C1FD8C88-0F4A-479B-89EF-AF0493459ED8 More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer   

Travel enthusiast Michael Kummer shares his 16 essential travel items, from air purification gadgets to safety tools, to simplify trips and enhance the overall travel experience. Practical tips and product recommendations for staying healthy and prepared on the road, whether traveling for business or pleasure.

In this episode, we're exploring the intricate world of stress management with Dr. Dave Rabin, a neuroscientist, inventor, entrepreneur and co-founder of Apollo Neuroscience, which makes wearable devices that use low-frequency (inaudible) sound waves to help reduce stress levels and blood pressure, speed up recovery, and positively influence your autonomic nervous system by changing your heart rate variability (HRV). Dr. Rabin shares his expert insights on the dual nature of stress (eustress vs. distress), and introduces us to innovative ways to harness this powerful force for good. We also talk about the Apollo wearable, including how it works and how I’ve used it to help increase my own HRV. This conversation is a must-listen if you want to enhance your ability to manage stress and turn everyday tension into a source of strength. In this episode: 0:00 - Introduction 1:40 - Understanding Stress  5:00 - The Role of Inflammation in Cell Communication   7:00 - Benefits of Eustress 9:20 - How Cold Exposure Stress Can Positive or Negative   14:03 - Apollo Technology Explained 27:30 - Closing Thoughts and Episode Wrap-up Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations with experts in health, fitness, and beyond.  #PrimalShiftPodcast #DaveRabin #Stress #Apollo  Learn more: Read about my top gadgets for stress relief. Read my detailed Apollo Neuro review for a deep dive into how I used the device as part of my wellness regimen. Watch this YouTube video to learn about the science behind Apollo Neuro. Want to know if Apollo really works? Here’s what the research says about the device. Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin!  OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review and visit OneSkin here. About Dr. Dave Rabin: Dr. Dave Rabin, M.D., Ph.D, is a neuroscientist and psychiatrist who has conducted more than 15 years of research into chronic stress. He co-founded Apollo Neuroscience, where he serves as Chief Medical Officer and helps develop wearable technology that enhances sleep and relaxation. Dr. Rabin is also the Executive Director of The Board of Medicine, as well as Medical Director at the Apollo Clinic. Website: https://www.drdave.io/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidrabin/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/drdavidrabin More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82  

In this episode, we explore the critical aspects of blood sugar management and the innovative use of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) to maintain optimal health, even on a low-carb diet. We'll unravel some common misconceptions about diabetes, including the idea that diet is the only risk factor for developing type-2 diabetes. I’ll also share personal insights from my own experiences with CGMs. Learn how dietary choices, stress, and other lifestyle factors can profoundly affect your blood sugar levels and overall health. This discussion is essential for anyone looking to enhance their understanding of metabolic health and prevent chronic illnesses through practical, data-driven insights.  In this episode: 00:00 - Intro   01:49 - My Discoveries Using CGMs   03:24 - What Happens When Your Blood Sugar Levels Rise?   04:22 - The Concept of Type 3 Diabetes and Mental Health   06:04 - Dietary Impacts on Blood Sugar Levels  07:37 - Stress Impacts on Blood Sugar Levels   08:26 - Exercise and Its Immediate Effects on Blood Sugar   09:09 - The Role of Chronic Stress and Poor Sleep   11:57 - How to Use and Choose the Right CGM 16:10 - CGMs That I Use 16:42 - The Importance of Using a CGM 21:06 - Closing Thoughts: Why Monitor Your Blood Sugar? Remember to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who could benefit from it. And as always, thank you for tuning in to the Primal Shift Podcast! Links: For a limited time, join Levels and receive an additional two free months on your annual membership.  Try the Nutrisense CGM here. Read my comparison of Levels Health and Nutrisense on the blog. Check out my conversation with Laura and Erin from Mark Sisson’s Primal Health Coach Institute and learn how to boost your health by shifting gears. Learn more on how exercise influences your blood glucose response (I drank a can of Coke as an experiment). Learn how continuous glucose monitoring can improve your health and fitness. Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, MK Supplements!  Use code “primalshift” to save 15% on your MK Supplements order at https://shop.michaelkummer.com More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer   

In this episode we're joined by former US Navy SEAL and sleep expert Dr. Kirk Parsley. Dr. Parsley shares his profound insights on the critical importance of sleep and its often underestimated impact on overall health. He also tells us about the unique perspective he gained from his experience with the extreme sleep deprivation endured during both SEAL training and medical residency.  Learn the surprising truths about shift work, the pitfalls of modern medical training on sleep education, and actionable strategies to improve your sleep hygiene for optimal health. This conversation is for anyone looking to seriously upgrade their health through the power of sleep. Dr. Parsley dismantles common misconceptions about sleep and provides practical advice that stems from his background as a Navy SEAL and medical doctor.  In this episode: 00:00 - Intro   01:40 - Meet Dr. Kirk Parsley: Navy SEAL Turned Sleep Doctor   02:56 - The Shocking Reality of Sleep Deprivation in Medicine and Military   06:20 - The Misconceptions of Western Medicine and Disease Care  10:31 - How Light Affects Sleep and Circadian Rhythms    14:57 - Exploring the Deadly Impact of Shift Work on Lifespan   16:00 - The Role of Napping: When and Why It's Essential   35:08 - Sleep Myths and Misunderstandings Debunked   42:47 - Supplements for Sleep: What Works According to Science   53:37 - The Future of Sleep Science and Personal Health Adjustments   58:00 - Closing Thoughts and Episode Wrap-up Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations with experts in health, fitness, and beyond. #PrimalShiftPodcast #KirkParsley #SleepScience  Learn more: Experience the all natural, life changing benefits of deep, regenerative sleep with Sleep Remedy by Dr Kirk Parsley. Learn why you might have trouble falling asleep. Learn how to sleep better and fall asleep quicker. Primal Shift Podcast #14: Do THIS for Better Sleep Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin!  OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review and visit OneSkin here. About Dr. Kirk Parsley: Dr. Kirk Parsley is a retired Navy SEAL and medical doctor who specializes in sleep medicine. He is widely recognized for his expertise in sleep optimization, particularly addressing the detrimental effects of sleep deprivation experienced in high-stress environments like the military and medical fields. Dr. Parsley is a leading speaker and consultant, promoting the importance of sleep for overall health and peak performance. Website: https://docparsley.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sleepremedy/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIyEpdW88wakXSh0JYYHxGA More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82  

Let’s get back to the basics of what it truly means to eat naturally. In this episode, I’ll take you through a practical challenge: what if your diet depended entirely on what's available locally and seasonally in your area?  This episode is for anyone looking to understand the real impact of food locality and seasonality on their health. I’ll break down the myths and truths about sustainable diets, and explain how you can improve your health dramatically by aligning more closely with nature's rhythms.  Join me as we explore how simple changes can lead to significant health benefits. In this episode: 00:00 - Intro   01:55 - The Concept of Hyperlocal and Hyperseasonal Eating   02:19 - Dietary Scenarios in Georgia Across Seasons   03:14 - Ignoring Modern Constraints: Hunting and Agriculture Insights   03:58 - What Would You Eat? Exploring Native Species   06:15 - Challenges of a Strict Plant-Based Diet Locally   08:16 - Comparing Native Plants to Common Cultivated Varieties   09:17 - The Health Implications of Seasonal Eating   12:51 - Practical Tips for Implementing a Local Diet   18:03 - The Role of Genetics 18:50 - Environment Role 21:00 - Closing Thoughts Remember to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who could benefit from it. And as always, thank you for tuning in to the Primal Shift Podcast! Links: Check out my in-depth guides on nutrition and dietary lifestyles that have been proven by evolution and science to be effective for improving your health. Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, MK Supplements!  Use code “primalshift” to save 15% on your MK Supplements order at https://shop.michaelkummer.com More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82  

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jack Wolfson, a renowned cardiologist with a unique perspective on heart health that challenges conventional wisdom. Dr. Wolfson shares his insights on the true causes of cardiovascular disease, the overlooked importance of lifestyle factors, and why organ meats might be the missing piece in your diet for heart health. We also discuss the critical role of environmental factors, including mold exposure, and how they impact your cardiovascular system. Dr. Wolfson's approach offers practical, actionable advice grounded in nature, helping you make informed choices about your health and well-being.  In this episode: 00:00 - Introduction 03:02 - The Critical Role of Lifestyle in Heart Health   04:44 - Top 3 Cardiovascular Risk Factors  05:18 - Nutrition and Diet: What Really Matters   08:01 - Advanced Markers for Assessing Heart Disease Risk   18:36 - Personal Blood Work Discussion and Insights   29:16 - The Importance of Organs in Your Diet   36:40 - Final Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up   Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations with experts in health, fitness, and beyond. #PrimalShiftPodcast #JackWolfson #CardiovascularHealth  Learn more: Shop my 100% grass-fed freeze-dried beef organ supplements. Learn the top health benefits of consuming organ meat (blog post). Make sure you tell your doctor to include these key metabolic health markers on your blood panel (YouTube video). Chronic inflammation (and thus, chronic disease) is largely driven by lifestyle factors, such as diet, environmental toxins, exercise and sleep. Check out my guide to living a healthy lifestyle for actionable tips you can implement today. Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, OneSkin!  OneSkin’s lineup of topical skin health products leverage the power of the company’s proprietary OS-01 peptide to remove dead skin cells, improve collagen production, increase skin hydration and more. Check out my before and after photos in my OneSkin review and visit OneSkin here. About Dr Jack Wolfson:Dr. Jack Wolfson is a board-certified cardiologist, a best-selling author, husband and father, as well as one of the nation’s top natural heart doctors. Over the past two decades, more than 1 million people have enjoyed the warmth, compassion and transformational power of his natural heart health courses and events. Website: https://drjackwolfson.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natural_heart_doctor/?hl=es  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@NaturalHeartDoctor More From Michael Kummer: Website: https://michaelkummer.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://instagram.com/mkummer82