

Rational Wellness Podcast
Dr. Ben Weitz
Rational Wellness Podcast hosted by Dr. Ben Weitz helps you unlock the latest science in functional medicine, nutrition, wellness and health, so you can optimize your body and mind. Weekly interviews with experts in Functional Medicine and Wellness with focus on gut health, hormones, inflammation, wellness, brain health, nutrition, health and longevity.
You'll discover evidence-based strategies to reverse chronic disease, balance your biology, and extend your healthspan — from cutting-edge lab testing and nutrition to personalized lifestyle interventions.
Past guests include Dr. Dale Bredesen, Dr. Jeffrey Bland, and Dr. Mark Pimentel and many of the most trusted voices in functional and integrative medicine and the wellness world.
Subscribe today to learn practical tools you can use right now for better health and wellness.
You'll discover evidence-based strategies to reverse chronic disease, balance your biology, and extend your healthspan — from cutting-edge lab testing and nutrition to personalized lifestyle interventions.
Past guests include Dr. Dale Bredesen, Dr. Jeffrey Bland, and Dr. Mark Pimentel and many of the most trusted voices in functional and integrative medicine and the wellness world.
Subscribe today to learn practical tools you can use right now for better health and wellness.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 27, 2024 • 56min
Myths and Misconceptions About Stool Testing with Dr. Tom Fabian: Rational Wellness Podcast 392
View the Show Notes For This Episode Dr. Tom Fabian discusses Myths and Misconceptions about Stool Testing with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, Dr. Ben Weitz interviews Dr. Tom Fabian from Diagnostic Solutions about the various methodologies of stool testing, including culture, Whole Genome Shotgun Sequencing, and Quantitative PCR. The discussion primarily focuses on the GI MAP test, a popular stool test in functional medicine, which uses quantitative PCR to provide insights into the microbiome, pathogens, and gut health. Dr. Fabian explains the science behind PCR and addresses common concerns about stool testing, the detection of pathogens like H. pylori and C. difficile, and how stool tests can give clues to conditions like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and leaky gut. The episode also delves into broader implications of stool tests for clinical practice and patient care. 00:26 Interview with Dr. Tom Fabian on Stool Testing 00:40 Understanding Stool Testing Methodologies 03:19 Quantitative PCR and Its Advantages 08:10 Comparing Stool Testing Methods 17:13 The Importance of Quantitative Data in Clinical Settings 19:47 Addressing Criticisms of PCR Testing 22:58 Promotional Break: Apollo Wearable 24:30 Asymptomatic Colonization and C. diff 28:00 Understanding C. diff and Its Risk Factors 29:17 The Role of Parasites in Gut Health 32:40 Controversies Around H. pylori Detection 38:59 Small Intestine and GI MAP Insights 41:31 Methane and Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) 45:58 Inflammation and Gut Health Markers 51:27 Final Thoughts and Resources for Practitioners Dr. Tom Fabian has a PhD in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology and he is a certified Nutrition Therapy Practitioner. Tom specializes in the microbiome and how it relates to digestive, immune, brain, and metabolic health. Dr. Fabian serves a consultant and science advisor with Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory. DiagnosticSolutionsLab.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

Dec 18, 2024 • 53min
Men's Health with Dr. Tracy Gapin: Rational Wellness Podcast 391
Dr. Tracy Gapin discusses Optimizing Men's Health with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights Optimizing Men's Health and Longevity with Dr. Tracy Gapin In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, host Dr. Ben Weitz discusses men's health optimization and longevity with Dr. Tracy Gapin, founder of the Gapin Institute for Precision Medicine. Dr. Gapin, a board-certified urologist with over 25 years of experience, transitions from traditional healthcare to an integrative medical model focusing on epigenetics, hormone optimization, and personalized health strategies. The discussion covers the importance of comprehensive diagnostics, the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring, the role of wearable technology, and the significance of personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes tailored to genetics. Dr. Gapin also highlights the epidemic of low testosterone levels in men, the relevance of free testosterone, and the emerging role of peptide therapies in enhancing health outcomes. 00:00 Introduction to Rational Wellness Podcast 00:26 Meet Dr. Tracy Gapin: Men's Health Expert 01:11 Dr. Gapin's Journey to Integrative Medicine 02:15 The Importance of Epigenetics and Hormones 04:33 Personalized Nutrition and Genetic Testing 18:13 The Role of Wearable Technology in Health 25:43 Comparing Dexcom and Libre: Accuracy and Preferences 26:29 Understanding Hormone Testing and the Testosterone Epidemic 30:31 The Importance of Free Testosterone 33:56 Testosterone Administration Methods 40:22 The Role of Estrogen and Progesterone in Men 43:18 The Benefits of DHEA and Pregnenolone 45:19 Growth Hormone and Peptides 49:29 Conclusion and Resources Dr. Tracy Gapin is men's health optimization and longevity expert. He's the founder of the Gapin Institute for Precision Medicine and a board-certified urologist with over 25 years experience. He's a best-selling author, TEDx speaker, and his website is DrTracyGapin.com. He recommends going to GapinInstitute.com/launch. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

Dec 11, 2024 • 39min
Longevity and the Supplement Industry with Ron Beckenfeld: Rational Wellness Podcast 390
View the Show Notes For This Episode Ron Beckenfeld discusses Longevity and the Supplement Industry with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, host Dr. Ben Weitz interviews Ron Beckenfeld, CEO of Continental Vitamin Company. They discuss Ron's journey from selling vitamins out of his car to establishing a leading supplement company known for its Superior Source microlingual products. They delve into topics such as the importance of high-quality dietary supplements, trends in the supplement industry, and tips for maintaining health and longevity. They emphasize the role of proper nutrition, exercise, and the benefits of supplements like collagen, creatine, and keto powders. Additionally, they discuss the negative impact of processed foods and the importance of discipline, support systems, and lifestyle changes for long-term health. Dr. Weitz also shares information about the Apollo wearable, a device aimed at reducing stress and improving sleep and focus. 00:00 Introduction to Rational Wellness Podcast 00:26 Meet Ron Beckenfeld: CEO of Continental Vitamin Company 01:15 Journey into the Vitamin Business 02:47 Innovations in Dietary Supplements 05:15 The Importance of Health and Nutrition 06:44 The Vicious Cycle of Processed Foods 12:38 Keys to Longevity and Healthy Living 16:23 The Role of Supplements in a Healthy Lifestyle 18:48 Trends in the Nutritional Supplement Industry 19:40 Strict Regulations and Manufacturing Costs 20:50 Trends in Supplements: Collagen and Energy Drinks 21:44 Pre-Workout Supplements and Caffeine 24:14 Protein Intake and Dietary Habits 25:08 Longevity Supplements and Support Systems 27:30 Business Success and Company Culture 30:14 Manufacturing Processes and Clean Ingredients 34:59 Final Thoughts and Product Information Ron Beckenfeld is the CEO of Continental Vitamin Company that poduces the Superior Source product line of vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements with instant-release tablets that utilize a MicroLingual delivery system for quicker and more direct absorption. His website is SuperiorSourceVitamins.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

Dec 4, 2024 • 38min
Modern Chiropractic Care with Dr. Har Hari Khalsa: Rational Wellness Podcast 389
View the Show Notes For This Episode Dr. Har Hari Khalsa discusses his Modern Approach to Chiropractic with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights Revolutionizing Health: Dr. Har Hari Khalsa's Innovative Holistic Treatments Join Dr. Ben Weitz, host of the Rational Wellness Podcast, in a fascinating discussion with Dr. Hari Hari Khalsa, a chiropractor from Los Angeles. Dr. Khalsa shares his journey from traditional Western medicine to discovering holistic healing through chiropractic care. He discusses his innovative treatments that combine naturopathy, cutting-edge technologies like CyberScan, PEMF, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and shares compelling patient success stories. Learn how these techniques can provide comprehensive health assessments, enhance cellular health, and potentially improve conditions like chronic lung issues, long COVID, and even cancer support. Don't miss insights into groundbreaking therapies and how they might transform your approach to wellness. 00:00 Introduction to the Rational Wellness Podcast 00:26 Meet Dr. Har Hari Khalsa: A Journey into Holistic Healing 00:53 Discovering Chiropractic and Naturopathy 04:33 Starting a Practice in Los Angeles 05:51 The Power of CyberScan Technology 12:28 Exploring PEMF Therapy 18:19 Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Insights 21:07 Hyperbaric Therapy Success Stories 21:44 Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Immune Boosting 22:56 Antioxidants and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy 23:25 Methylene Blue and Other Therapies 25:08 Follistatin and Genetic Therapy 28:56 Cancer Care and Biohacking 33:28 StemWave Shockwave Therapy 35:45 Connecting with Dr. Har Hari 37:18 Podcast Conclusion and Contact Information Dr. Har Hari Khalsa is a Dr. Har Hari Khalsa, DC, is a highly experienced holistic chiropractor who has been assisting people on their healing journey since 1988. At Transformational Healing Universe in the Pico-Robertson neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, Dr. Har Hari focuses on a holistic approach to patient wellness and longevity. His website is TransformationalHealingUniverse.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

Nov 28, 2024 • 1h 3min
Metaflammaging with Dr. James Lavalle: Rational Wellness Podcast 388
View the Show Notes For This Episode Dr. James Lavalle discusses Metaflammaging with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, host Dr. Ben Weitz engages in a comprehensive discussion with Dr. James LaValle, an internationally recognized clinical pharmacist and nutritionist. They delve into the concept of metaflammation—metabolic inflammation—and its impact on health and aging. Dr. LaValle shares his personal journey into integrative and functional medicine, his work with athletes and professional teams, and his development of the Metabolic Code. He also discusses the significance of various biomarkers for assessing health, the role of GLP-1 agonists in obesity and diabetes management, and the potential benefits and concerns surrounding peptides. Additionally, they cover the importance of lifestyle changes, stress management, and innovative health technologies in promoting longevity and well-being. 00:00 Introduction to the Rational Wellness Podcast 00:29 Meet Dr. James LaValle: A Journey in Integrative Medicine 05:26 The Metabolic Code and Personalized Care 06:33 The Role of Lifetime in Promoting Wellness 07:31 Understanding Biomarkers and Metabolic Health 18:02 The Impact of GLP-1s and Lifestyle Changes 27:12 Concerns and Considerations with GLP-1s 31:05 Inflammation Markers: Mean Platelet Volume and Neutrophil Lymphocyte Ratio 31:42 Understanding Metabolic Inflammation 32:09 The Role of Basophils and Cortisol in Inflammation 32:25 Neutrophils, Lymphocytes, and Immune System Stress 33:27 Monocytes and Macrophages: Indicators of Inflammation 36:12 The Importance of Urinary pH and Kidney Health 37:47 Root Causes of Obesity: Genetics, Environment, and Nutrient Deficiencies 39:14 The Impact of Prescription Drugs on Weight Gain 39:49 Magnesium Deficiency and Metabolic Syndrome 40:54 The Problem with Ultra-Processed Foods 42:36 The Importance of Personal Health Responsibility 44:11 Exploring Peptides and Their Benefits 48:54 Innovations in Longevity and Health Supplements 54:22 The Science Behind Synapsin and RG3 58:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Dr. James Lavalle is an internationally recognized clinical pharmacist and a board certified clinical nutritionist for close to 40 years and he is the author of more than 20 books including, "Cracking the Metabolic Code." He has lectured for more than a decade for the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. Jim has served thousands of patients using his "Metabolic Model for Health" through his integrative health practice, LaValle Metabolix in Orange County, CA. James is best known for his expertise in personalized integrative therapies uncovering the underlying metabolic issues that keep people from feeling healthy and vital. His website is JimLavalle.com. To find out more about his nutrition products that he has developed, including Synapsin, please go to MetabolicElite.co. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

Nov 20, 2024 • 59min
Progesterone with Dr. LaKeischa McMillan: Rational Wellness Podcast 387
View the Show Notes For This Episode Dr. LaKeischa McMillan discusses Progesterone with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, Dr. Ben Weitz discusses the history and controversial aspects of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) with integrative OBGYN, Dr. Lakeisha McMillan. They delve into the benefits of progesterone for women, including its neurological impacts, and the differences between bioidentical progesterone and synthetic progestins. Dr. McMillan shares insights on hormone testing, natural ways to boost progesterone, and practical applications for both perimenopausal and menopausal women. They also touch on the safety of HRT, testosterone therapy, and its potential uses in older women. Listeners can expect a comprehensive discussion on hormone health, replacement therapies, and practical advice for integrating these solutions. 00:00 Introduction to the Rational Wellness Podcast 00:30 History of Hormone Replacement Therapy 02:29 Controversies and Studies on HRT 04:21 Introduction to Dr. Lakeisha McMillan 08:15 The Role and Benefits of Progesterone 08:43 Progesterone's Impact on Neurological Health 13:23 Progesterone and Menstrual Health 20:17 Testing and Prescribing Hormone Therapy 21:24 Natural Ways to Boost Progesterone 23:26 Forms and Types of Hormone Therapy 31:41 Understanding Progestins vs. Progesterone 33:27 Safety of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) 36:20 Cardiovascular Risks and Hormone Metabolism 40:32 Seed Cycling for Hormonal Balance 42:26 Pellet Therapy and Personal Experiences 45:38 Monitoring Hormone Levels 51:05 Hormone Therapy for Older Women 55:53 Conclusion and Contact Information Dr. LaKeischa McMillan is an Integrative Obstetrician-Gynecologist who wrote a best selling book, The Other PMS: Your Survival Guide for Perimenopause and Menopause, and she lectures frequently on perimenopausal and menopausal health and hormones. Her website is IntegrativeGynSolutions.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

Nov 14, 2024 • 1h 31min
Sports Nutrition with Dr. Philip Goglia: Rational Wellness Podcast 386
View the Show Notes For This Episode Dr. Philip Goglia discusses Sports Nutrition with moderator Dr. Ben Weitz at the Functional Medicine Discussion Group meeting on October 24, 2024. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, Dr. Ben Weitz discusses the challenges of organizing functional medicine meetings post-pandemic. Special guests from different sponsors introduce their products, and Dr. Goglia provides extensive insights on nutrition, metabolic typing, and personalized dietary recommendations. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:26 Challenges with Functional Medicine Meetings Post-Pandemic 01:36 Upcoming Meetings and Announcements 02:32 Sponsors Introduction 02:47 Integrative Therapeutics Overview 03:49 Quicksilver Scientific Overview 05:10 Vibrant America Labs Overview 06:20 Sports Nutrition Overview with Dr. Weitz and Phillip 07:05 Dr. Goglia on Metabolic Typing and Nutrition 57:08 Audience Q&A and Discussions on Supplements 51:21 NBA Athletes Dietary Programs 01:29:25 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Dr. Philip Goglia has a PhD in Nutritional Science and he is also the best-selling author of Turn Up the Heat--Unlock the Fat Burning Power of Your Metabolism. Dr. Goglia sees clients at his office in Santa Monica and he can be contacted at 310-392-4080 and through his website http://www.pfcnutrition.com/ Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

Nov 9, 2024 • 39min
Fuel Up with Dr. Dana Cohen: Rational Wellness Podcast 385
View the Show Notes For This Episode Dr. Dana Cohen discusses her new book, Fuel Up with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights In this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, Dr. Ben Weitz welcomes Dr. Dana Cohen to discuss her new book, 'Fuel Up: Harness the Power of Your Blender and Cheat Your Way to Good Health.' Dr. Cohen shares insights on integrative medicine, the inspiration behind her book co-written with Colin Sapphire, and practical tips on improving nutrition, hydration, and overall health through simple dietary changes. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Dana Cohen and Her Work 01:15 Inspiration Behind 'Fuel Up' 03:02 Benefits of Blending and Nutrition 13:33 Reducing Ultra Processed Foods 20:43 Hydration Insights 37:00 Conclusion and Book Availability Dr. Dana Cohen is a practicing integrative medicine for over 25 years. Currently in private practice in Manhattan, she is a nationally renowned internal and integrative medicine specialist whose multidisciplinary approach has helped successfully treat thousands of patients. Her new book, which she wrote with Colin Sapire is Fuel Up: Harness the Power of Your Blender and "Cheat" Your Way to Good Health. Her website is DrDanaCohen.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

Oct 30, 2024 • 41min
Whole Exome Sequencing with Dahlia Attia-King: Rational Wellness Podcast 384
Dahlia Attia-King discusses Whole Exome Sequencing with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights Join Dr. Ben Weitz in this episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast as he dives into the world of whole exome sequencing with Dahlia Atiyah King, founder and CEO of Panacea. Discover the latest advancements in DNA testing technology and how it can be a game-changer in the prevention of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Learn about the differences between next-generation sequencing and commercial genetic tests like 23andMe, and how whole exome sequencing provides a more comprehensive analysis of your genetic makeup. Dahlia also shares her personal story of genetic testing and highlights the importance of accessibility and affordability in preventative health care. Tune in to gain valuable insights and explore how this cutting-edge genetic test can empower you to take control of your health future. 00:00 Introduction to Rational Wellness Podcast 00:30 Understanding Whole Exome Sequencing 01:26 Guest Introduction: Dahlia Atiyah King 02:44 Whole Exome Sequencing vs. Other Genetic Tests 08:10 Importance of Laboratory Standards 12:50 Personal Experience with Genetic Testing 24:17 Functional Medicine and Genetic Testing 27:44 Future of Genetic Testing 37:08 Addressing Patient Concerns and Final Thoughts 39:01 Conclusion and Special Offer Dahlia Attia-King is the Founder and CEO of Panacea and she has a BS in Biology and Chemistry from the University of Miami. Panacea was founded with a mission to reduce barriers to access for clinical genetic testing so that people can get in control of their health and prevent disease. Panacea now offers residents of almost every state the ability to receive at-home clinical genetic testing called Whole Exome Sequencing and expert medical guidance in just a few clicks, empowering people to potentially save their own lives. The website is SeekPanacea.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.

Oct 23, 2024 • 53min
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis with Lara Zakaria: Rational Wellness Pocast 383
View the Show Notes For This Episode Lara Zakaria discusses Hashimoto's Thyroiditis with Dr. Ben Weitz. [If you enjoy this podcast, please give us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, so more people will find The Rational Wellness Podcast. Also check out the video version on my WeitzChiro YouTube page.] Podcast Highlights In this extensive and informative episode of the Rational Wellness Podcast, host Dr. Ben Weitz is joined by Lara Zakaria, the Foodie Pharmacist, to explore the complexities of thyroid health, focusing on autoimmune hypothyroidism, also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis. They delve into the prevalence and history of hypothyroidism in the U.S., the nuances of thyroid function, and the role of iodine. Key topics include the limitations of TSH levels for diagnosis, the importance of comprehensive thyroid testing, and the role of thyroid-binding globulin and sex hormone binding globulin. The discussion emphasizes a multifaceted approach to treatment, integrating gut health, stress management, adrenal health, and personalized medication strategies. Also covered are various thyroid medication options, dietary strategies for managing thyroid conditions, and the intricate relationship between iodine and thyroid health. Lara Zakaria shares insights on bio-individuality in functional medicine and introduces a one-month thyroid optimizer program. This episode offers a thorough understanding of thyroid health and individualized care protocols. Lara Zakaria is an Integrative Pharmacist, Certified Nutrition Specialist and an IFM certified Practitioner. Combining her background in pharmacy and training in Personalized Nutrition, Functional Medicine, and herbalism, Lara designs personalized protocols that incorporate whole food, herbs, nutrigenomics/pharmacogenomics, medication history, and lifestyle modification to help patients achieve their health goals. Her website is LaraZakaria.com. Dr. Ben Weitz is available for Functional Nutrition consultations specializing in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders like IBS/SIBO and Reflux and also Cardiometabolic Risk Factors like elevated lipids, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. Dr. Weitz has also successfully helped many patients with managing their weight and improving their athletic performance, as well as sports chiropractic work by calling his Santa Monica office 310-395-3111.


