The Model Health Show: Nutrition | Exercise | Fitness | Health | Lifestyle

Statins are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States. In fact, more than a quarter of Americans over the age of 40 are taking this popular drug class. You might think this is rational since cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death, and statins are often touted by providers for their ability to reduce risks of heart attacks and strokes. However, this is a massive oversimplification of human biology and the implications of long-term prescription medication use.  Today’s guest, Dr. Jonny Bowden, is a board-certified nutritionist, a repeat bestselling author, and one of the biggest proponents of reducing statin usage for a large portion of the population. On this episode of The Model Health Show, Dr. Bowden is back to share the truth about cholesterol levels, how statins actually work, and when they are an appropriate treatment plan.  You’re going to learn powerful information on which biomarkers predict cardiovascular outcomes, and how to make a thorough risk-benefit ana

Your gut is responsible for some of the most integral functions of your body like digestion and nutrient absorption. But did you know your gut also contains some of your body’s most powerful defenses against pathogens? When we gain a better understanding of how our microbiome and immune system work in tandem, we can make empowered choices that protect us from a myriad of infections and diseases.  On this episode of The Model Health Show, integrative gastroenterologist, Dr. Robynne Chutkan, is back to share cutting-edge science from her new book, The Anti-Viral Gut. You’re going to learn about the important link between gut health and immunity, including the innate defense systems inside your gut that protect you from viral illnesses. Dr. Chutkan is sharing empowering information on how some of the most commonly prescribed medications can destroy your gut, and the role nutrition plays in supporting your microbial health.  We’re diving into specific details on the function of the gut, and how our microbial heal

Medical interventions, including prescription medications, can be effective solutions in the right context. But in our current healthcare system, we’re simply treating symptoms and overlooking the powerful lifestyle tools we have at our disposal. There is an undeniable connection between our health outcomes and our daily practices, including diet, sleep, and movement.  Today’s guest, Cynthia Thurlow, is passionate about empowering folks to live vibrant and healthy lives through nutrition. She is a nurse practitioner, international speaker, and a thought leader in the space of intermittent fasting and women’s health. In her bestselling book, Intermittent Fasting Transformation, Cynthia outlines an individualized approach to weight loss and hormone balance through intermittent fasting.  On this episode of The Model Health Show, Cynthia is sharing incredible insights into her experience in the U.S. healthcare system, both as a provider and a patient. We’ll talk about the numerous health benefits of intermittent

“Our very survival depends on our ability to stay awake, to adjust to new ideas, to remain vigilant, and to face the challenge of change.” – Martin Luther King Jr. Adversity is one of life’s certainties. No matter who you are or what your goals are, at some point you’re going to fall on hard times. But it’s in these moments when push comes to shove, you get to decide how to react. It’s in your power to decide how to show up, and that’s truly what shapes your character and contributes to your resiliency. Today’s guest, Shaun T., is here to share his story of turning setbacks into comebacks.  Shaun T. is a world-renowned fitness and transformation coach, a bestselling author, and the creator of some of the most popular home fitness programs ever. He has helped millions of folks get in shape, but what I really admire about Shaun is that his passion for transformation goes beyond physical appearance alone. His mission is to help folks unlock their potential and live their best lives.  In this interview, you’re go

We’ve come a long way when it comes to understanding mental health, but just like many other areas of science and biology, we still have a lot to learn. As rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide skyrocket, it’s more important than ever to have conversations about mental health. It’s even more imperative that those conversations are centered around knowledge and empowerment, and that’s what I love about today’s guest.  Dr. Caroline Leaf is a cognitive neuroscientist and bestselling author who specializes in mind management. Today she’s back on The Model Health Show to share the importance of managing your mind, and specific details on how the human mind actually works. You’ll learn why mental health is a prerequisite for overall health, how toxic thoughts create inflammation, and the interesting science behind how your environment influences your mind.  This episode is full of enlightening conversations like the concept of human consciousness and biofield, polypharmacy and what’s behind Americans’ declining

The emerging field of stem cell therapy offers hope for the future of medicine as we know it. Under the umbrella of regenerative medicine, stem cell therapy aims to repair damaged cells in a process that lowers levels of inflammation and modulating the immune system. Unfortunately, at this point in time, very few stem cell therapies are accessible to the general public, but the body of evidence is growing to support regenerative therapies to improve a myriad of ailments and diseases.  On today’s show, you’re going to hear from one of the pioneers in the space of regenerative and precision medicine, Dr. Robert Hariri. Dr. Hariri is a surgeon, biomedical scientist, and entrepreneur. He also co-authored the #1 New York Times bestselling book, Life Force, alongside Tony Robbins. His knowledge and expertise in the field of stem cell therapy is unmatched.  In this interview, you’re going to hear the science behind placental stem cell therapies, and the multiple benefits of regenerative medicine. We’re diving into t

The human brain is an incredibly complex and dynamic organ. It controls so much of who we are and how we operate, including everything from memory and emotion to vision and hunger. And with an increased prevalence in mental illnesses and neurodegenerative diseases, it’s more important than ever that we understand how our brain works so we can optimize its function and longevity.  Today you’re going to hear a compilation of two of my previous interviews with Dr. Daniel Amen. Dr. Amen is a leading brain health expert and double board-certified psychiatrist, and the founder of Amen Clinics, home to the world’s largest database of brain scans. If you’re interested in improving your brain health, there’s no one better to learn from than Dr. Amen. You’re going to hear about how brain health influences mental health, the state of psychiatry and mental health in the US, and how we can begin to take a root-cause approach to improving mental health. We’ll talk about specific strategies you can use to lower brain inflam

Throughout our lives, our hormones are constantly fluctuating. Specifically, as we age, our hormone levels tend to dramatically change. And while these shifts are a natural part of our life cycle, it doesn’t mean we’re destined to live with symptoms like poor mood or decreased energy forever.  On today’s show, you’re going to learn from hormone expert and triple board-certified OBGYN, Dr. Anna Cabeca. In her new book, MenuPause, she shares how to use food as medicine to reduce the symptoms of menopause like weight gain, brain fog, and hot flashes. Dr. Anna takes a well-rounded, holistic approach to healing, and she has helped thousands of folks reach optimal health through improved hormone levels.  No matter what stage of life you’re in, understanding how your hormones work is critical. This episode is full of key insights and actionable steps you can take to balance your hormones and feel your best. You’re going to learn about the relationship between some of our most important hormones, specific foods to ea

Did you know that light therapy can improve your sleep, promote healing, and reduce inflammation? Humans are deeply influenced and shaped by our environment, and light is an important factor in maintaining optimal health. On today’s show, you’re going to learn about the numerous benefits of light therapy.  Our guest today is Dave Asprey. He is a four-time New York Times bestselling author, the host of The Human Upgrade Podcast, and the founder of Upgrade Labs. For the last two decades, Dave has worked to discover the best ways to improve human functionality and performance. As the creator of TrueLight, Dave is a leading voice in the space of light therapy for optimizing overall health.  On today’s show, you’re going to learn how light impacts mitochondrial function, energy levels, inflammation, and so much more. We’re also going to discuss the link between circadian rhythms and fertility, and how factors like modern farming and birth control can impact human health long-term. This conversation is full of info

Modern medicine tends to divide the human body into separate, distinct systems but our bodies are complex entities that are intricately connected. The field of gut health is constantly evolving, and the more we learn, the more we understand about the body’s expansive interconnectedness. Our gut health impacts a myriad of functions in the body, including metabolism, immune health, and even our mental health.  One of the leading experts in dissecting the relationship between food and mood is Dr. Uma Naidoo. She is a Harvard psychiatrist, professional chef, and a nutritional specialist. Her specialty is Nutritional Psychology—a field that approaches mental health in a holistic and integrated way. On this episode of The Model Health Show, Dr. Naidoo is back to share powerful insights on how what we eat affects our mental health.  You’re going to hear key insights on the gut-brain connection, and how taking a wider perspective on mental illnesses can facilitate healing. You’re going to learn what to eat for better

No one can give you permission to change your life because real transformation comes from within. It requires constant and intentional effort and courage. Most importantly, transformation requires a profound level of honesty and self-reflection. If you’re ready to tap into your potential and create different results, today’s show is for you.  Dr. Eric Thomas, also known as ET, is one of the top motivational speakers in the world. His message of empowerment, determination, and success has resonated with millions of folks who have decided to break disempowering patterns and redefine greatness for themselves. In his new book, You Owe You, ET teaches the importance of taking responsibility for your life in order to reach your potential.  On this episode of The Model Health Show, ET is back to share life-changing principles to motivate you to find your purpose and take control of your life. You’re going to hear proven relationship tips, how to take ownership, and real tips for identifying and accessing your unique

Creating a healthy lifestyle starts with consistently implementing healthier habits. For better or for worse, we all have habits that have been deeply engrained into our routines for years. Deciding to change a deep-rooted habit takes a great deal of introspection, accountability, and intention. On today’s show, you’re going to hear eight strategies you can use to reprogram your thinking and start shifting toward healthier choices.  You’re going to learn about the power of self-assessment, how your environment influences your behaviors, and how to cope with failure. This episode features science-backed information on how your biology can impact your choices, how reward pathways in the brain work, and so much more.   If you’ve ever struggled to change your habits, these tips will help you better understand your psychology and how to create sustainable changes. I hope this episode empowers you to take control of your thoughts, actions, and behaviors so you can create the life you want to live. Enjoy!  In this e

Between work and family responsibilities, most of us have a full schedule—and when life gets especially busy, exercise can often be the first thing to fall off your list of priorities. But you don’t need to spend hours in the gym every day to reap the multitude of benefits that come from adding movement to your routine. On today’s show, you’re going to learn about the best exercises to incorporate for maximum benefits if you’re short on time.  Today’s guest, Kelsey Heenan, is a fitness expert and the co-founder of HIITBURN. Kelsey has worked with folks from various backgrounds and fitness levels, including professional athletes and Olympians. Her approach to exercise and nutrition is centered around freedom, balance, and sustainability. On this episode of The Model Health Show, Kelsey is back to share her best tips to not only transform your body composition, but to upgrade your confidence and mindset as well.  You’re going to learn about the various benefits of interval training, and why foundational movemen

Have you ever thought about what your skin can tell you about your overall health? Whether it’s dry skin, acne, or eczema, the presentation of your skin can often indicate a deeper issue happening internally. Instead of treating these conditions as isolated problems, it’s important to take a holistic approach and address underlying imbalances or inflammation from the inside out.  Today’s guest, Dr. Trevor Cates is a naturopathic doctor, bestselling author, and the founder of The Spa Dr. She helps patients worldwide treat skin conditions and balance hormones through holistic methods. In her new book, Natural Beauty Reset, Dr. Cates explains how to address underlying imbalances and optimize health with a root-cause approach that leads to healthy, vibrant skin.  You’re going to hear how your food choices impact your skin and how addressing gut health can improve your appearance. Dr. Cates is sharing important principles on topical skincare, including the truth about personal care ingredients, pH levels, and suns

A new study links frequent napping to high blood pressure and an increased risk of having a stroke. This research might alarm you, especially if you’re someone who enjoys taking naps. However, taking naps isn’t inherently bad. The problem is that taking frequent naps may indicate a deeper underlying issue: poor sleep quality at night.  Sleep is a critical part of your overall health, and not getting enough high-quality sleep can lead to a myriad of problems, including increased risk for multiple chronic illnesses. On this episode of The Model Health Show, we’re going to dive into the science of napping and overall sleep hygiene. You’re going to learn about how sleep debt works, and how it can impact your health. You’ll also learn about sleep cycles, the function of melatonin, and the optimal way to nap.  Most importantly, we’re going to cover specific things you can do to improve your sleep quality so that you can be well-rested and healthy. You’ll learn how to optimize your sleep environment, how to improve

Brain health impacts every single area of our lives, including our quality of life as we age. Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease are becoming increasingly more common, but this growing epidemic is not a normal or inevitable part of aging. Genetic predisposition only drives around 5% of cases, so the power is in our hands to implement healthy habits and prevention strategies to ward off neurodegeneration.  Today’s guest, Dr. Dominic D’Agostino, is an expert in neuroscience and neuropharmacology. He is a tenured associate professor at the University of South Florida, a research scientist at the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition, and the creator of the website, Keto Nutrition. Dom’s impressive resume also includes working as a research investigator on NASA’s Extreme Environment Mission Operation. In his research lab, the main focus is studying the neuroprotective effects of the ketogenic diet, and that’s what you’re going to learn about today.  You’re going to learn about the connection

“Action is a great restorer and builder of confidence. Inaction is not only the result, but the cause, of fear.” – Normal Vincent Peale Confidence is a key player in many areas of life, including reaching your fitness goals, having healthy relationships, and achieving growth in your career. But have you ever thought about where confidence comes from? Today you’re going to learn exactly what it takes to develop radical confidence that impacts every aspect of your life.  Lisa Bilyeu is the co-founder of Quest Nutrition and Impact Theory. She is the host of the podcast, Women of Impact, and author of the book, Radical Confidence. On this episode of The Model Health Show, Lisa is here to share empowering tenets on cultivating confidence and how to eliminate excuses that are holding you back. You’re going to learn about how to handle fear, how to realistically reach your goals, and specific mindset shifts you can use to live a more authentic and fulfilling life.  If you want to get honest with yourself and learn p

“Being brave isn’t the absence of fear. Being brave is having that fear but finding a way through it.” – Bear Grylls Fear is an innate part of the human experience. Although you might minimize fear as a basic emotion, fear is a complex process that triggers a series of physiological changes within the body. Fear isn’t inherently bad—in fact, fear is hardwired into our brains to keep us safe and alive. The key is to have a healthy relationship with fear and to be aware of how it impacts all areas of our lives. Today’s guest, Tony Blauer, is a self-defense coach and fear management, expert. Through his company, Blauer Training Systems, his mission is to empower folks to reframe their relationship with fear in order to maximize performance. With over four decades of experience, Tony is a leading authority in the self-defense industry. He’s implemented scenario-based training for individuals and organizations across the world, including military, law enforcement, leadership teams, and the general public.  This ep

When you think about improving your health, you probably think about making better food choices, getting more high-quality sleep, or adding more physical activity to your routine. But have you ever considered how your finances impact your overall well-being? Financial stress can manifest physically in many ways, including anxiety, digestive issues, or sleep disturbances.  If you want to be the healthiest version of yourself possible, you’ve got to consider how to upgrade your financial fitness – and today’s guest is here to show you how. Bret Johnson has created several multimillion-dollar companies alongside his wife Chalene. He runs the operations and finances for his companies, SmartLife, Inc. and Team Johnson. On this episode of The Model Health Show, Bret is sharing what he’s learned about finances throughout his life and career, including the story of how he overcame a gambling addiction and paid off over $400,000 in debt.  You’re going to learn actionable tips and strategies you can use to uplevel your

There’s a lot of conflicting advice about the best way to get results in the gym. And if there’s anyone who knows how to get results, it’s my friend Jay Ferruggia. Jay has been a personal trainer for over 25 years and he has thousands of hours of experience training folks in the gym. He has an impressive resume of advising in major league sports and contributing to magazines and major news networks.  Jay is one of the most elite fitness coaches in the world, and what I love about him is his realistic approach to training. Jay’s mission is to make fitness simple and efficient. He incorporates key lifestyle habits like getting enough sleep, easy nutrition tips to help maximize your results, and how things like relationships and mindset can impact your fitness goals.  No matter what your fitness goals are, Jay’s tips can help you achieve them. On today’s show, he’s sharing some of the most common misconceptions about training, the importance of having a plan, and why training for longevity and health is so effec