Causes or Cures
Dr. Eeks
"For the Nerds and the Nerd Nots"Causes or Cures is a health podcast hosted by Dr. Eeks—an independent, grassroots show driven by curiosity and a passion for breaking down complex health topics into bite-sized, easy-to-understand insights. Dr. Eeks works as a public health consultant, in the realm of epi/scicomms. She's all about making science relatable and often uses a blue-collar sense of humor to drive the message home.On this podcast, Dr. Eeks talks with experts from around the world (doctors, researchers, public health pros, and more) to dive into the latest hot topics in health and research, all in a down-to-earth kind of way. She also includes people with compelling stories of healing and "characters" because life is too boring and short to leave out characters. ;)DISCLAIMER: Some topics are more controversial than others, so keep in mind that this is information only and not health advice. Dr. Eeks doesn't endorse any of her guests' views, and despite a strict health routine, nor does she endorse any products, supplements, oils, magic socks or potions. If an episode is sponsored by a company she likes, she will say so in the show notes! Causes or Cures is not a "news site." It's about having conversations, and Dr. Eeks is confident that she can have a respectful conversation with anyone, even people who think far differently than she does. (At least that's been her experience at hole-in-the-walls & on the NYC sidewalks.) The point is to not take anything here as Gospel. Sometimes Dr. Eeks' dog Barnaby makes his opinion known, but the good news is that he's a smart dog. Most importantly, she hopes this podcast encourages folks to stay curious, empathic, hopeful, compassionate, honest, open-minded, and engaged. Freedom of discussion is a beautiful thing, delightfully messy, and one that many take for granted.*The views on this podcast do not reflect the views of anyone she contracts with or consults for. You can contact Dr. Eeks through her website, bloomingwellness.com.If you are interested in sponsoring an episode, write erin@bloomingwellness.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 22, 2025 • 1h 4min
Is Diet Connected to Colon Cancer and Why Cases are Rising in Young Adults, with Dr. Timothy Yeatman
Send us a text In this episode of Causes or Cures, Dr. Eeks chats with Dr. Timothy Yeatman about the connection between diet, inflammation, and colon cancer. He’ll explain why cancer can be thought of as a "poorly healing chronic wound" and describe his recent study highlighting how chronic inflammation, fueled by dietary choices, plays a key part in the progression of colorectal cancer. We’ll explore the alarming rise of colon cancer in adults under 50 and any common patterns he’s observed in this population. Dr. Yeatman will shed light on the immune tumor microenvironment, how it influences colon cancer, and its potential role in future treatments. Plus, we’ll discuss natural approaches to prevention and treatment, including key lifestyle interventions, such as achieving the right balance of omega-3s and omega-6s. Dr. Yeatman is the Associate Center Director for Translational Research and Innovation at Tampa General Hospital Cancer Institute and a Professor of Surgery at the University of South Florida. With a career spanning leadership roles at Intermountain Healthcare, the Huntsman Cancer Institute, and Moffitt Cancer Center, he has spearheaded groundbreaking research in colorectal cancer, genomics, and biomarker development. He founded the Guardian Research Network, led a $100M Moffitt-Merck collaboration, and co-founded M2Gen, a biotech company. His work has been funded by the National Cancer Institute since 1993, and he continues to advance cancer research and clinical innovation. You can contact Dr. Eeks at bloomingwellness.com.Follow Eeks on Instagram here.Or Facebook here.Or X.On Youtube.Or TikTok.SUBSCRIBE to her monthly newsletter here.Support the show
Feb 11, 2025 • 35min
Plant Trip or Lab Trip: Do Natural vs Lab-Made Psychedelics Feel Different? With CEO Ben Lightburn
Send us a textIn this episode of Causes or Cures, Dr. Eeks sits down with Benjamin Lightburn, CEO of Filament Health, to explore the key differences between natural and synthetic psychedelics—and why those differences matter. Ben breaks down how Filament Health develops its natural psychedelic medicines, shares insights from ongoing clinical trials with top academic institutions, and discusses the early results. He also explains how Filament plans to bring these treatments to market and what sets them apart in the rapidly growing psychedelic space.Ben is a pioneer in natural drug development, having co-founded Filament Health to create the first-ever safe, naturally derived psychedelic medicines for conditions like substance use disorder. With 15 clinical trials underway across North America and Europe and a business now valued at $210M, Filament is making waves in the industry. Before this, Ben built and sold a successful natural extraction startup, Mazza Innovation, securing major deals with multinationals before its $26M acquisition.Tune in for a fascinating deep dive into the future of psychedelics—where nature meets science!You can contact Dr. Eeks at bloomingwellness.com.Follow Eeks on Instagram here.Or Facebook here.Or X.On Youtube.Or TikTok.SUBSCRIBE to her monthly newsletter here.Support the show
Feb 5, 2025 • 1h 6min
Follow Your Heart Rate Variability for Peak Health & Longevity, with Dr. Torkil Færø
Dr. Torkil Færø, a Norwegian physician, best-selling author of "The Pulse Cure," and a talented documentary filmmaker, discusses heart rate variability (HRV) as a cornerstone of health and longevity. He shares practical tips for monitoring HRV using wearables, emphasizing its role in stress management and overall well-being. Færø reveals strategies to add '24 years' to your life, the balance between exercise and recovery, and critiques healthcare systems, highlighting the importance of prevention. His holistic approach combines diet, relationships, and spirituality for peak health.
Jan 24, 2025 • 60min
What's Life Like as a Medicine Hunter? With Chris Kilham
Send us a textDisclaimer: Causes or Cures is for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, and no medical claims are being made. Always talk to a qualified healthcare provider about your personal health. In this episode of Causes or Cures, Dr. Eeks sits down with Chris Kilham, the renowned "Medicine Hunter," to discuss his incredible global adventures in search of medicinal plants. Chris shares fascinating stories about traveling to over 45 countries, collaborating with indigenous communities, and transforming botanical discoveries into market-ready products. He provides practical advice on plant-based solutions for hair and skin health, managing anxiety, and even low libido, drawing on his deep exploration of natural aphrodisiacs.Chris also delves into how plant-based medicinals can be thoughtfully incorporated into conventional approaches to medicine, bridging the gap between traditional remedies and modern healthcare. He explores the rising popularity of psychedelics and offers valuable tips for identifying reputable supplement companies in a crowded market.With more than 50 years of experience in natural health, Chris leads Berkem's Global Plant Exploration Initiative, spearheading sustainable plant discovery and development, while simultaneously supporting the natural environment and indigenous communities. As a researcher, author, yoga teacher, and advocate for traditional remedies like ashwagandha, kava, and maca, Chris brings unparalleled expertise and insight into the world of medicinal plants and wellness.*Keep in mind that this is a conversation and not medical advice. The podcast team does not endorse any supplements or natural products and advises anyone interested in either to do their homework.You can contact Dr. Eeks at bloomingwellness.com.Follow Eeks on Instagram here.Or Facebook here.Or X.On Youtube.Or TikTok.SUBSCRIBE to her monthly newsletter here.Support the show
Jan 21, 2025 • 35min
How Forever Chemicals (PFAS) Disrupt Your Sleep, with Dr. Sherlock Li
Send us a text In this episode of Causes or Cures, Dr. Eeks sits down with Dr. Sherlock Li to explore his recent research on the impact of forever chemicals (PFAS) on sleep, a pressing public health concern given the strong links between poor sleep and a range of health issues. Dr. Li begins by providing an overview of what forever chemicals are and how they persist in the environment and human body. He then delves into the methodology of his latest study, detailing the observed effects of PFAS on sleep patterns and the emerging theories behind these disruptions. The conversation also touches on the broader public health implications of PFAS exposure and Dr. Li’s cautionary note that the replacement chemicals being introduced may not offer any improvements for our well-being. Dr. Sherlock Li, PhD, is a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Population and Public Health Sciences at the Keck School of Medicine. You can contact Dr. Eeks at bloomingwellness.com.Follow Eeks on Instagram here.Or Facebook here.Or X.On Youtube.Or TikTok.SUBSCRIBE to her monthly newsletter here.Support the show
Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 9min
Bird Flu: Real Danger or Overblown? Dr. Eskild Petersen Explains
Send us a textIn this episode of Causes or Cures, Dr. Eeks sits down with international infectious disease expert Dr. Eskild Petersen to discuss the current bird flu outbreak. Dr. Petersen provides an overview of the history of influenza and the origins of avian influenza (bird flu), shedding light on the ongoing outbreak in animals and its unexpected detection in cows. He explores the science behind the receptors bird flu binds to, explains the differences in these receptors between humans and animals, and highlights how they play a crucial role in determining the severity of infections and the potential for human-to-human transmission. (As of now, there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission.) Finally, he outlines actionable steps for prevention, early treatment strategies, and shares his perspective on the current level of concern. Dr. Petersen is a Professor Emeritus of infectious diseases, Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, Aarhus University, Denmark, and is a member of the PandemiX Center of Excellence at Roskilde University, Denmark. He served as chair of the European Society of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID) Emerging Infections Task Force, Basel, Switzerland and is internationally renowned for his contributions to global health, travel medicine and emerging infections. He worked at the Danish national public health institute, Statens Serum Institut, from 1989 to 2003 after which he returned to clinical work in hospitals and treating patients with infectious disease. He served as Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Infectious Diseases from 2012 to 2022 and is now Editor-in-Chief of IJID Regions. Professor Petersen has authored several textbooks, including “Infectious Disease: a Geographic Guide” now published by Routlege in its 3rd edition.You can contact Dr. Eeks at bloomingwellness.com.Follow Eeks on Instagram here.Or Facebook here.Or X.On Youtube.Or TikTok.SUBSCRIBE to her monthly newsletter here.Support the show
Jan 12, 2025 • 1h 5min
Why Standing Desks Aren’t the Answer for Blood Pressure, with Dr. Bethany Gibbs
Send us a textYou’ve heard the phrase, “Sitting is the new smoking,” but is it really true—or just an oversimplification? And do standing desks at work actually improve your health? In this episode of Causes or Cures, Dr. Eeks chats with Dr. Bethany Barone Gibbs about her recent study on standing desks and their surprising effects on blood pressure, a key indicator of health. Dr. Gibbs explains how the study was conducted, what the outcome measures revealed, the unexpected findings, and her recommendations for the broader public. Plus, she shares her expert take on whether “sitting is the new smoking” holds up to scientific scrutiny.Dr. Bethany Gibbs is the chair and professor of the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at West Virginia University School of Public Health. Her research focuses on cardiovascular and physical activity epidemiology, as well as lifestyle interventions to prevent heart disease. Learn more about her work here.So, before you fully commit to a standing desk, tune in to hear what the science really says about the workplace wellness trend!You can contact Dr. Eeks at bloomingwellness.com.Follow Eeks on Instagram here.Or Facebook here.Or X.On Youtube.Or TikTok.SUBSCRIBE to her monthly newsletter here.Support the show
Dec 21, 2024 • 60min
Health Benefits of Psychedelic Retreats for Older Adults, Expert Insights with Dr. Lorenzo Pasquini & Hannes Kettner
Send us a textIn this episode of Causes or Cures, Dr. Eeks chats with Dr. Lorenzo Pasquini and Hannes Kettner about their research on the effects of psychedelics in older adults who attended psychedelic retreats! They delve into their shared interest in exploring psychedelics as a potential avenue for improving mental health and well-being in this population, where better treatments are urgently needed. The conversation covers their research process, details about the psychedelic retreats attended by participants, and the substances used. They also share key outcomes related to participants' health and well-being and discuss exciting future directions for their work.Dr. Pasquini is Assistant Professor of Neurology at UCSF whose research focuses on the brain's role in emotional states and social behavior. Using neuroimaging and neurophysiological techniques, he explores how these systems change with aging, neuropsychiatric diseases, and novel interventions like psychedelics. Hannes Kettner is a researcher and PhD candidate at the Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences at Imperial College, London. This episode is sponsored by Greco Gum, the all-natural chewing gum for your mouth and gut that is made from only ONE ingredient! Visit GrecoGum.com and use code ERIN15 to get 15% off your first order.You can contact Dr. Eeks at bloomingwellness.com.Follow Eeks on Instagram here.Or Facebook here.Or X.On Youtube.Or TikTok.SUBSCRIBE to her monthly newsletter here.Support the show
Dec 13, 2024 • 1h 4min
Ergothioneine: A Key Nutrient You Probably Never Heard Of: With Lee Carroll
Send us a textDisclaimer: Causes or Cures is for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, and no medical claims are being made. Always talk to a qualified healthcare provider about your personal health. In this episode of Causes or Cures, Dr. Eeks chats with Australian medical herbalist Lee Carroll about Ergothioneine—what he calls "the most important nutrient you’ve probably never heard of." Found in high concentrations in mushrooms, Lee explains its properties, functions, and why some researchers have dubbed it a "longevity vitamin." While the scientific evidence is still emerging, Ergothioneine’s unique characteristics have sparked significant interest with researchers. Lee also shares the best ways to cook and eat mushrooms to maximize their health benefits.Lee Carroll, Chief Medical Herbalist with the Science Team at Real Mushrooms, brings over 30 years of expertise in holistic health and botanical medicine. A renowned educator and mentor, he has dedicated his career to exploring the health benefits of mushrooms. Since 2013, he has run a clinical practice in Australia and founded Herba Meditari, an innovative platform for educating health professionals worldwide.With degrees in Western Herbal Medicine and Botany, Lee seamlessly blends traditional wisdom with modern science. His prior roles at MediHerb, where he excelled in research, development, and education, further highlight his extensive expertise.This episode is sponsored by Greco Gum, the all-natural chewing gum for your mouth and gut. Visit GrecoGum.com and use code ERIN15 to get 15% off your first order!You can contact Dr. Eeks at bloomingwellness.com.Follow Eeks on Instagram here.Or Facebook here.Or X.On Youtube.Or TikTok.SUBSCRIBE to her monthly newsletter here.Support the show
Dec 3, 2024 • 1h 1min
Science vs. Spirituality: Is There Room for Magic? A Talk with Dr. Alan Lightman
Send us a textIn this episode of Causes or Cures, Dr. Eeks sits down with Dr. Alan Lightman to explore "spiritual materialism," the idea that we can embrace awe-inspiring, spiritual moments without turning to the supernatural for explanations. Dr. Lightman shares insights from his new book, The Miraculous From the Material: Understanding the Wonders of Nature, and delves into profound topics like consciousness, near-death experiences, the possibility of a higher power, immortality, relationships, and whether falling in love leaves space for magic. If you love pondering life’s biggest questions, this episode is a must-listen.Dr. Lightman is a renowned physicist, author, and entrepreneur. A former Harvard faculty member and current professor at MIT, he holds a degree from Princeton University and a PhD in physics from Caltech. He’s the bestselling author of the modern classic Einstein's Dreams, The Diagnosis, The Transcendental Brain, and The Accidental Universe. Dr. Lightman also hosts the acclaimed PBS series Searching: Our Quest for Meaning in the Age of Science. Since 2023, he is a member of the United Nations’ Scientific Advisory Board.This episode is sponsored by Greco Gum, the all-natural chewing gum for your mouth and gut. Visit GrecoGum.com and use code ERIN15 to get 15% off your first order!You can contact Dr. Eeks at bloomingwellness.com.Follow Eeks on Instagram here.Or Facebook here.Or X.On Youtube.Or TikTok.SUBSCRIBE to her monthly newsletter here. Support the show
