Realfoodology

Courtney Swan
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Apr 15, 2025 • 1h 15min

Natural Birth, Epidurals, + The Real Risks of Formula | Lindsey Meehleis

244: This week, I’m joined by Lindsey Meehleis, a certified midwife, doula, lactation consultant, EMT, CPR instructor, and neonatal resuscitation provider. Lindsey brings a truly holistic approach to birth, and our conversation dives deep into the importance of honoring the natural physiology of labor. As someone on my own fertility journey, I asked all the questions I’ve been curious about — from how to find a midwife to what real support during birth looks like. We explore the over-medicalization of birth in the Western world, how to prepare for a more empowered and informed birthing experience, and why individualized care matters so much. Lindsey’s wisdom and passion for supporting women through this rite of passage is incredibly inspiring — I left this conversation wanting her by my side when I give birth someday. Topics Discussed: What is the difference between a midwife and a doula? How can I prepare for a natural birth in a medicalized world? Are epidurals and Pitocin necessary for every labor? What are the risks of relying on baby formula over breastfeeding? How to find a trustworthy midwife or doula? Sponsored By: Our Place | Use code REALFOODOLOGY for 10% off at fromourplace.com Timeline | Go to timelinenutrition.com/REALFOODOLOGY and use code REALFOODOLOGY for 10% off Qualia | Go to qualialife.com/REALFOODOLOGY for up to 50% off and use code REALFOODOLOGY at checkout for an additional 15% off. Pique | Piquelife.com/Realfoodology Graza | So head to Graza.co and use REALFOODOLOGY to get 10% off of TRIO which includes Sizzle, Frizzle and Drizzle, and get to cookin’ your next chef-quality meal! Cozy Earth | Go to cozyearth.com and Use code REALFOODOLOGY for 40% off best-selling sheets, pajamas, and more. Trust me, you won’t regret it.   Timestamps:  00:00:00 – Introduction 00:03:42 – How birth became medicalized 00:06:51 – The "PuberTea" and early health education 00:08:17 – Navigating pregnancy in the Western world 00:13:18 – Epidurals, fentanyl, and early latching challenges 00:18:10 – The risks of baby formula 00:22:25 – The impact of high fructose corn syrup 00:24:14 – Maternity leave and postpartum support 00:26:34 – Latching tips & working with lactation consultants 00:31:51 – The truth about breastfeeding 00:33:46 – A brief history of birth practices 00:35:01 – C-sections, vaginal seeding, and gut health 00:37:40 – Learning to trust your body 00:39:31 – Pitocin, natural birth, and informed choices 00:44:11 – Advocacy and the MAHA Mom Coalition 00:48:44 – Environmental toxins: Glyphosate and fertility 00:51:52 – Understanding gestational diabetes 00:55:40 – Birth centers vs. hospitals 01:00:04 – How to find a midwife or doula 01:02:13 – Managing emergencies during birth 01:07:10 – Why individualized birth care matters 01:09:10 – Midwife vs. Doula: What's the difference? 01:10:53 – Addressing concerns about home birth 01:13:58 – Where to find Lindsey Meehleis Show Links: Sperm counts have declined by over 50% globally The U.S. fertility rate has dropped from 2.48 in 1970 to just 1.64 toda The U.S. maternal mortality rate has increased by over 60% in two years Black women are 2.6 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Hispanic maternal mortality rates The World Needs 900,000 More Midwives Breastfeeding rates Worker protections need to be implemented Check Out Lindsey:  Instagram https://www.theremembering.com/media https://www.maha-mom-coalition.com/ Check Out Courtney:  LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide! @realfoodology www.realfoodology.com My Immune Supplement by 2x4 Air Dr Air Purifier AquaTru Water Filter EWG Tap Water Database Produced By: Drake Peterson
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Apr 8, 2025 • 1h 19min

Breast Cancer Prevention Without Radiation or Mammograms | Dr. Jenn Simmons

243: In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Simmons, a former top breast cancer surgeon turned functional medicine expert. We discuss her journey from conventional medicine to a root-cause-focused approach, and what inspired her to launch Real Health MD and perfeQTion Imaging. I had the incredible opportunity to visit her imaging center in Philadelphia for a breast scan, and it was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced—non-invasive, painless, and completely radiation-free. We talk all about this alternative to traditional mammograms and the many ways women can take proactive steps toward better breast health without fear or discomfort. Topics Discussed: What is perfeQTion Imaging and how does it compare to traditional mammograms? Are there non-invasive and radiation-free options for breast cancer screening? How does functional medicine approach breast cancer prevention and treatment? What are the side effects of traditional breast cancer treatments and are there alternatives? How can lifestyle and diet influence your risk for breast cancer? Sponsored By:  LMNT | Get your free Sample Pack with any LMNT drink mix purchase at drinklmnt.com/realfoodology BIOptimizers | For an exclusive offer go to bioptimizers.com/realfoodology and use promo code REALFOODOLOGY  Paleovalley | Save at 15% at paleovalley.com/realfoodology and use code REALFOODOLOGY MANUKORA | Go to Manukora.com/REALFOODOLOGY to get $25 off the Starter Kit, which comes with an MGO 850+ Manuka Honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook!  Ollie | Head to MyOllie.com/REALFOODOLOGY, tell them all about your dog, and use code REALFOODOLOGY to get 60% off your Welcome Kit when you subscribe today! Timestamps:  00:00:00 – Introduction 00:03:27 – Dr. Simmons’ Background 00:08:39 – Dr. Mark Hyman & Functional Medicine 00:14:28 – Rethinking Mammograms 00:24:22 – Breast Cancer Treatment Options 00:27:10 – Treatment Side Effects 00:31:55 – Synthetic Hormones 00:34:24 – Infertility & IVF 00:35:10 – Breast Cancer Screening 00:39:12 – Stage 0 Breast Cancer 00:41:22 – Root Cause Approach 00:42:41 – Leaving Surgery Behind 00:49:59 – Nutrition During Chemo 00:52:38 – Fasting & Chemo 00:58:34 – Breast Cancer Prevention 01:02:07 – Metabolic Health & Screening 01:06:56 – Dr. Simmon’s breast cancer screenings  01:10:33 – The future of breast cancer prevention  Check Out Dr. Simmons:  Website Instagram The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer (book) Check Out Courtney:  LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide! @realfoodology www.realfoodology.com My Immune Supplement by 2x4 Air Dr Air Purifier AquaTru Water Filter EWG Tap Water Database  Produced By: Drake Peterson
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Apr 3, 2025 • 34min

The Link Between Fluoride, Lower IQ, + Dangerous Industrial Waste | Dr. Staci Whitman

242: Fluoride in our water isn’t as safe or effective as we’ve been told. I sat down with functional dentist Dr. Staci Whitman to explore its toxic origins, health risks like dental fluorosis and neurological issues, and why fluoride levels are so hard to regulate. We also dive into the real drivers of dental health—like diet and processed foods—plus how to remove fluoride from your water and advocate for safer policies. Topics Discussed:  What are the health risks associated with fluoride in drinking water? How does fluoride in water impact dental health and IQ levels? Why is it difficult to regulate fluoride levels in public water systems? What role does diet and processed food play in dental health? How can you remove fluoride from your drinking water and advocate for safer policies? For 20% off any Fygg purchase use code REALFOODOLOGY Timestamps:  00:00:00 - Introduction  00:01:01 - Dr. Staci Whitman’s Background 00:02:36 - History of Water Fluoridation 00:04:13 - Toxic Chemical Industry and Fluoride 00:08:05 - Fluoride in Everyday Products 00:10:25 - Fluoride and Cavity Prevention 00:12:17 - Neurological Effects of Fluoride 00:18:37 - Cavity Rates and Fluoride’s Impact 00:19:23 - Tracking Fluoride Levels 00:21:13 - Fluoride and Lowered IQ 00:23:35 - Removing Fluoride from Your Water 00:27:17 - Joining the Fluoride Awareness Movement 00:28:57 - The Cost of Safe Water Check Dr. Staci: Instagram Website More Dr. Staci For 20% off any Fygg purchase use code REALFOODOLOGY Check Out Courtney:  LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide! @realfoodology www.realfoodology.com My Immune Supplement by 2x4 Air Dr Air Purifier AquaTru Water Filter EWG Tap Water Database  Produced By: Drake Peterson
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Apr 1, 2025 • 1h 25min

COVID Vaccine Side Effects, Detox Protocols & Long-Term Health Impacts | The Wellness Company

Dr. Peter McCullough, an esteemed cardiologist with over 700 published studies, shares vital insights on COVID vaccine side effects. He discusses how to test for potential side effects and offers a detox protocol for those concerned. The conversation touches on significant long-term health impacts, including risks like myocarditis and pericarditis. McCullough also explores fertility concerns related to the vaccine and compares natural immunity to vaccine-induced immunity. This informative chat equips listeners with knowledge for better health decisions.
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Mar 27, 2025 • 10min

Can We Eat The Chicken? Urgent Bird Flu Updates & What You Need To Know | Peter McCollough

240: In this quick but important episode, I tackle some of the biggest questions on everyone’s mind—what’s going on with bird flu, and is it safe to eat chicken and eggs? There’s a lot of information (and misinformation) out there, so I break it all down to help you stay informed and protected. Stay prepared with the Contagion Kit from The Wellness Company. Use code REALFOODOLOGY to save over $30 plus free shipping. Kits are for US residents only. www.twc.health/realfoodology   
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Mar 25, 2025 • 60min

The Fertility Crisis No One Talks About – What You NEED to Know! | WeNatal

239: In this episode, I sit down with the founders of WeNatal to talk all about fertility and the nutrients our bodies need for a healthy pregnancy. As many of you know, I’ve already declared 2025 my year of fertility, and I’m on a mission to learn everything I can to prepare for pregnancy. We talk about fertility myths, so-called "geriatric pregnancies," and the biggest factors affecting conception today. Both founders have experienced miscarriages, which led them to create a prenatal that truly supports the body’s needs. If you’re hoping to get pregnant this year or next, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. Topics Discussed: What nutrients are essential for a healthy pregnancy? How do stress and sleep impact fertility? What are the biggest misconceptions about "geriatric pregnancies"? How can men improve their fertility? What lifestyle changes support conception and a healthy baby? Sponsored By:  MANUKORA | Go to ⁠Manukora.com/REALFOODOLOGY⁠ to get $25 off the Starter Kit, which comes with an MGO 850+ Manuka Honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook!  LMNT | Get your free Sample Pack with any LMNT drink mix purchase at ⁠drinklmnt.com/realfoodology⁠ BIOptimizers | For an exclusive offer go to ⁠bioptimizers.com/realfoodology⁠ and use promo code REALFOODOLOGY  Paleovalley | Save at 15% at ⁠paleovalley.com/realfoodology⁠ and use code REALFOODOLOGY Ollie | Head to ⁠MyOllie.com/REALFOODOLOGY,⁠ tell them all about your dog, and use code REALFOODOLOGY to get 60% off your Welcome Kit when you subscribe today! Timestamps:  00:00:00 - Intro & My Fertility Journey 00:03:42 - Having Kids Later in Life 00:04:45 - Men's Fertility & Sperm Health 00:09:40 - Prepping for Pregnancy & IVF 00:15:51 - Egg Health, Aging & Fertility 00:17:57 - Struggling to Conceive & Common Fertility Blocks 00:21:19 - How Sleep & Stress Affect Fertility 00:23:04 - BPA, Phthalates & Hormone Disruptors 00:28:54 - Fertility as a Reflection of Overall Health 00:30:26 - Mental Health’s Role in Conception 00:31:51 - “Geriatric Pregnancy” & Biological Age 00:34:37 - Why Women Need More Self-Compassion 00:36:01 - Miscarriage, Healing & Hope 00:38:01 - Nutrition & Exercise for Fertility 00:42:01 - Debunking Fertility Myths 00:43:52 - Oral Health’s Impact on Conception 00:45:45 - Expert Fertility Tips for 2025 00:48:02 - Creating Space for a Baby in Your Life 00:50:57 - Egg Freezing & Understanding Egg Count 00:52:23 - WeNatal’s Prenatal & Nutrient Support Check Out WeNatal:  Master class https://wenatal.com/pages/masterclass Subscribe today & get a FREE month of Omega DHA+ Fish Oil Wenatal.com/realfoodology  Further Listening:  How to Balance Your Blood Sugar | Kelly LeVeque Check Out Courtney:  LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide! @realfoodology www.realfoodology.com My Immune Supplement by 2x4 Air Dr Air Purifier AquaTru Water Filter EWG Tap Water Database  Produced By: Drake Peterson
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Mar 18, 2025 • 1h 27min

Why Your Health is Under Attack – Dr. Will Cole on MAHA & Free Speech

236: In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Will Cole to discuss the growing momentum of the MAHA movement, the pushback it’s facing, and why figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are playing a key role. We explore the politicization of health and what it will take to create real change in our food system. We also cover chronic illness, the link between POTS and COVID, and the overuse of SSRIs. Dr. Cole shares insights on free speech in health science and how we can wake more people up to what’s really happening. Topics Discussed: The MAHA movement & pushback Role of RFK Jr. in the fight for change Politicization of health & food system reform Chronic illness, POTS, and COVID connection Overuse of SSRIs & suppression of free speech in health Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:04:39 - Catching up with Dr. Will Cole 00:06:03 - Pushback against MAHA 00:10:10 - RFK Jr. & the two-party system 00:12:31 - Why we need MAHA 00:17:40 - Health is not political 00:23:47 - Health and wellness research 00:25:23 - Staying hopeful 00:30:40 - Corruption in health science 00:33:54 - The ego of the left & COVID 00:37:51 - Suppression of free speech 00:42:14 - Waking up the average American 00:45:12 - Rise in chronic illness 00:48:01 - Declining children’s health 00:51:51 - Mold toxicity & toxic overload 00:54:17 - Overprescribing medication 00:57:28 - SSRIs 01:01:50 - Vagus nerve 01:04:20 - SSRIs side effects 01:08:50 - Birth control 01:10:53 - Possible root causes of POTS 01:17:16 - Long COVID & the jab 01:18:32 - Kellogg & food dye Show Links: 33: How Fasting Can Be Intuitive with Dr. Will Cole - Realfoodology Antidepressant Discontinuation: The Why & How of Tapering - Kelly Brogan Sponsored By: Our Place | Use code REALFOODOLOGY for 10% off at fromourplace.com Graza | So head to Graza.co and use REALFOODOLOGY to get 10% off of TRIO which includes Sizzle, Frizzle and Drizzle, and get to cookin’ your next chef-quality meal! Timeline | Timeline is offering 10% off your order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/REALFOODOLOGY. SuppCo | Get 100% free access today at supp.co/REALFOODOLOGY. Qualia | qualialife.com/REALFOODOLOGY for up to 50% off and use code REALFOODOLOGY at checkout for an additional 15% off. Function | Skip Function’s waitlist at www.functionhealth.com/realfoodology Check Out Dr. Will: Website Instagram Youtube Check Out Courtney: LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide! @realfoodology www.realfoodology.com My Immune Supplement by 2x4 Air Dr Air Purifier AquaTru Water Filter EWG Tap Water Database  Produced By: Drake Peterson
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Mar 13, 2025 • 1h 40min

Vaccination Controversies: Measles, Autism, and Health Risks | Dr. Bob Sears

In this episode, Dr. Bob Sears, a pediatrician with 25 years of experience, joins to discuss the complex and often polarizing topic of vaccinations. Dr. Sears provides valuable insights into the subject, aiming to offer clarity and address concerns for those navigating these important decisions.   The conversation covers various aspects, including the ongoing measles outbreak in Texas, with a focus on presenting factual information to help listeners make informed choices for their families. Topics Discussed: Questioning vaccines and informed consent The Hep B vaccine and newborn vaccinations The link between autism and vaccinations Vaccine reactions, including brain swelling and encephalitis Chronic illness rise and pediatric care in the U.S. Risks and benefits of vaccinating vs. not vaccinating Measles outbreaks and natural immunity Vaccine testing issues and risks of adjuvants like aluminum The impact of vaccine bonuses for doctors Censorship in the medical field and fighting for open dialogue Sponsored By: MANUKORA | Go to ⁠Manukora.com/REALFOODOLOGY⁠ to get $25 off the Starter Kit, which comes with an MGO 850+ Manuka Honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook!  LMNT | Get your free Sample Pack with any LMNT drink mix purchase at ⁠drinklmnt.com/realfoodology⁠ BIOptimizers | For an exclusive offer go to ⁠bioptimizers.com/realfoodology⁠ and use promo code REALFOODOLOGY  Pique | Get 20% off on the Radiant Skin Duo, plus a FREE starter kit including a rechargeable frother and glass beaker, with my exclusive link: ⁠Piquelife.com/Realfoodology ⁠ Paleovalley | Save at 15% at ⁠paleovalley.com/realfoodology⁠ and use code REALFOODOLOGY Ollie | Head to ⁠MyOllie.com/REALFOODOLOGY,⁠ tell them all about your dog, and use code REALFOODOLOGY to get 60% off your Welcome Kit when you subscribe today!   Timestamps:  00:00:00 - Introduction 00:06:50 - The Beginning of Questioning Vaccines 00:09:25 - The Hepatitis B Vaccine 00:12:45 - Newborn Vaccinations and Autism Concerns 00:21:27 - Exploring the Root Causes of Rising Autism Rates 00:23:10 - Adverse Vaccine Reactions and Brain Swelling 00:24:31 - Understanding Encephalitis 00:28:01 - The State of Pediatrics in the U.S. 00:29:53 - The Rise of Chronic Illness 00:37:14 - Comparing Vaccinated vs. Unvaccinated Children 00:37:45 - Autism Rates in Unvaccinated Children 00:40:35 - The Risks of Not Vaccinating 00:44:27 - The Current Measles Outbreak in Texas 00:48:08 - MMR Vaccine and Measles Outbreaks 00:50:32 - Debunking the Concept of Herd Immunity 00:52:06 - Natural Immunity to Measles 00:57:09 - The Role of Vitamin A in Measles Recovery 01:01:04 - Natural Measles Immunity and Cancer 01:04:45 - How to Decide Which Vaccines Are Right for Your Child 01:06:47 - The Impact of Delaying Vaccinations 01:10:27 - The Increase in Recommended Vaccinations 01:12:21 - Challenges in Vaccine Testing 01:16:17 - Risks of Vaccine Adjuvants and Aluminum 01:19:29 - Growing Public Awareness of Vaccine Issues 01:21:15 - The New Administration’s Stance on Vaccine Research 01:23:11 - Vaccination as a Personal Decision 01:27:24 - Financial Incentives: Vaccine Bonuses for Doctors 01:31:31 - Practicing Pediatrics in California 01:34:55 - Dr. Sears’ Work and Contributions 01:37:13 - Fighting Against Medical Censorship 01:38:04 - How to Find Dr. Bob Sears Check Out Dr. Sears:  Website Books Check Out Courtney: LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide! @realfoodology www.realfoodology.com My Immune Supplement by 2x4 Air Dr Air Purifier AquaTru Water Filter EWG Tap Water Database  Produced By: Drake Peterson
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Mar 7, 2025 • 19min

Act Now! – Stop Bayer’s Dangerous Immunity Grab | Kelly Ryerson (Glyphosate Girl)

236: Kelly Ryerson, also known as Glyphosate Girl, joins me to expose Bayer’s push for legal immunity from glyphosate lawsuits. If they succeed, it could block your right to hold them accountable for health harms.We break down what’s at stake, highlight key states where action is needed, and share how you can fight back. Public pressure matters—and your voice can make a difference.Topics We Discussed: Bayer's push for immunity from glyphosate-related lawsuits Historical lawsuits faced by Bayer since acquiring Monsanto State-level activism and public involvement Agrochemical companies' influence on legislation Importance of public awareness and advocacy Key battleground states in corporate accountability fight Timestamps:  00:00:00 - Introduction  00:01:02 - Glyphosate lawsuits  00:02:51 - Bayer new CEO  00:04:30 - The farm bill  00:07:11 - How to call your senators  00:09:28 - How to educate others  00:11:27 - Protecting farmers  00:13:33 - Going to court hearings  00:15:04 - Battleground states  Show Links: Where to sign up to be more involved Kelly’s IG Call Your Senators Further Listening:  Glyphosate, Big Agriculture, + Cancer | Kelly Rhyerson Revolutionizing Farming: A Regenerative Agriculture Story | Gabe Brown Check Out Kelly: Instagram More Kelly Check Out Courtney  LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide! @realfoodology www.realfoodology.com My Immune Supplement by 2x4 Air Dr Air Purifier AquaTru Water Filter EWG Tap Water Database Produced By: Drake Peterson
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Mar 4, 2025 • 58min

The Carnivore Diet, Sugar, & Seed Oils - What’s Actually Healthy? | Paul Saladino

235: In this second installment, we continue peeling back the layers on the nuances of carnivore eating, seed oils, and autoimmune issues. We also dive into my fiancé Hector’s incredible psoriasis healing journey and how diet can impact thyroid health.   Paul brings his unique perspective as both a trained physician and a passionate advocate for ancestral eating, and this episode dives even deeper into some of the most misunderstood areas of nutrition. We also touch on the intersection of food policy, healthcare, and how misinformation has shaped modern dietary guidelines. Whether you’re new to Paul’s work or a longtime follower, this conversation will leave you questioning much of what we’ve been taught about health and nutrition.   Topics Covered:  Hector’s psoriasis healing journey and the role of diet   Why seed oils are so damaging—and where they hide in our food supply   Tracking macros, protein intake, and transitioning away from strict carnivore   Dangerous ingredients in infant formula   What carbs and sugars are actually good for you   Check Out Part 1!!!  Sponsored By Our Place | Use code REALFOODOLOGY for 10% off at fromourplace.com Timeline | Timeline is offering 33% off your order of Mitopure while supplies last Go to timeline.com/REALFOODOLOGY33 and use code REALFOODOLOGY33 SuppCo | Get 100% free access today at supp.co/REALFOODOLOGY. Function | Skip Function’s waitlist at www.functionhealth.com/realfoodology Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction   00:02:21 - Psoriasis, eczema, and the carnivore diet   00:08:33 - Foods that trigger autoimmune and thyroid issues   00:13:19 - Sugar, fruit, and metabolic health   00:17:46 - Breaking down sucrose   00:18:45 - Benefits of fruit juices   00:24:41 - Tracking macros and meal planning tips   00:27:48 - How to make oats healthier   00:30:01 - Ancestral wisdom and environmental factors   00:31:59 - Seed oils: what they are and why they’re problematic   00:38:07 - The science behind seed oils  00:41:27 - Why food guidelines need reform   00:44:18 - Seed oils hiding in baby formula   00:48:48 - Mislabeling issues in infant formula   00:49:58 - Paul’s medical school experience and personal health journey   Show Links:  Part 1 With Paul Saladino  Check Out Paul: Website Instagram Youtube Check Out Courtney: LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide! @realfoodology www.realfoodology.com My Immune Supplement by 2x4 Air Dr Air Purifier AquaTru Water Filter EWG Tap Water Database Produced By: Drake Peterson

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