Welcome to The Modern Vital Podcast
Welcome to The Modern Vital Podcast, an environmental medicine health podcast that focuses on the relationship between environmental factors and human health.
Dr. Ben Reebs is a naturopathic doctor, founder of Portland Clinic of Natural Health, and creator of The Modern Vital Program, a 90-day health protocol customized to each individual health journey.
Overall, naturopathic medicine seeks to identify and address the underlying causes of illness or disease, including those related to environmental factors, in order to promote healing and prevent recurrence.
Stay tuned for fun, practical, and thought-provoking health tips, along with suggestions and insights into optimizing health and preventing chronic disease through naturopathic and functional medicine approaches.
Synopsis
In this episode of The Modern Vital Podcast, Dessa Bingley – a specialist in hyperbaric oxygen therapy – and Dr. Ben discuss the myriad of benefits this unique treatment modality can offer. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, a process where a patient breathes in pure oxygen in a pressurized room or tube, can stimulate the HIF1 oxygen sensing cell, leading to a cascade of biological responses that include collagen and fibrinogen production – crucial for wound healing and stem cell synthesis. Beyond wound healing, this therapy can increase endogenous stem cells eight-fold after 15-40 sessions, which the body can utilize to regenerate tissues, potentially even neurons, debunking the old belief that nerves don’t regenerate.
Dessa further highlights the evolving accessibility and affordability of hyperbaric therapy, making it a viable option not just for life-threatening conditions, but also for more common ailments like muscle strains, long COVID, and early-onset dementia. Additionally, the upsurge in research regarding hyperbaric therapy due to the COVID-19 pandemic has unearthed a trove of other potential benefits – including anti-inflammatory properties, bacterial, viral and microbial resistance, immune regulation, and stem cell support. Hyperbarics is an ideal adjunct to other complementary therapies, making any other treatment you’re undergoing more effective by enhancing the body’s resources.
The duo then delved into the lesser-known benefits of hyperbarics on biofilm disruption, where microbes like spirochetes often hide from the immune system. By breaking down these biofilms, hyperbarics can potentially enhance the efficacy of antibiotics and improve the quality of life of patients with conditions like Lyme and mold colonization. Dessa’s clinic – Be Well Holistic Health – emphasizes accessibility, offering affordable sessions and even providing a mini fleet of rental chambers for patients unable to leave their homes. As the cost of healthcare continues to escalate, investing in a home chamber could be a drop in the bucket with a massive return on the patient’s health and well-being.
Listeners are encouraged to reach out with questions, suggestions, or feedback, and to join the next episode of The Modern Vital Podcast for more insights into health and well-being.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into understanding the intricacies of chronic disease and its impact on your overall well-being, consider checking out Dr. Reebs’ book, “The Serpent & The Butterfly: The Seven Laws of Healing.” In this book, he discusses thyroid health and much more to help you on your journey to optimal wellness. Click here to purchase your copy: https://www.drreebs.com/serpent-butterfly-book/
Additionally, if you’re interested in a supplement designed to directly support your digestion, we recommend trying Digest: Gentian & Skullcap Capsules. These capsules are formulated with natural ingredients that can help improve and support overall digestive health. To learn more and purchase, visit: https://www.drreebs.com/digest-gentian-skullcap-capsules/
Thank you for joining us on The Modern Vital Podcast. Your support means the world to us, and we hope you continue to find value in the information we provide. Please remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share our podcast with others who might benefit from this content. Until next time, stay informed and proactive in your pursuit of health and wellness!
Synopsis
In this episode of The Modern Vital Podcast, our host Dr. Ben talks with Nick Pineault, also known as ‘The EMF Guy’. Pineault, an investigative health journalist, has spent years researching the impact of wireless technologies on human health. He discusses his new book, challenging previous misconceptions about safety standards in wireless communications, and reveals that the current safety thresholds are largely based on outdated studies and potentially harmful misunderstandings of biology.
Nick dives deep into the topic of electromagnetic fields (EMFs), discussing recent findings by the International Commission for the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields (ICBE-EMF). He points out that these fields, emitted by everyday devices like cell phones, Wi-Fi routers, and Bluetooth devices, are associated with adverse health effects, including oxidative stress and fertility issues. He also mentions the constant exposure to these EMFs in our modern world, and how it is an environmental stressor that contributes to various diseases.
Towards the end of the conversation, Nick discusses practical tips for minimizing exposure to EMFs, such as avoiding devices close to the body and using wired earbuds instead of Bluetooth. He advises on adopting a philosophy of prudent avoidance when it comes to EMF exposure. As controversial as this topic may be, Pineault argues for the importance of awareness and prevention, pushing for more modern and comprehensive safety standards.
Listeners are encouraged to reach out with questions, suggestions, or feedback, and to join the next episode of The Modern Vital Podcast for more insights into health and well-being.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into understanding the intricacies of chronic disease and its impact on your overall well-being, consider checking out Dr. Reebs’ book, “The Serpent & The Butterfly: The Seven Laws of Healing.” In this book, he discusses thyroid health and much more to help you on your journey to optimal wellness. Click here to purchase your copy: https://www.drreebs.com/serpent-butterfly-book/
Additionally, if you’re interested in a supplement designed to directly support your digestion, we recommend trying Digest: Gentian & Skullcap Capsules. These capsules are formulated with natural ingredients that can help improve and support overall digestive health. To learn more and purchase, visit: https://www.drreebs.com/digest-gentian-skullcap-capsules/
Thank you for joining us on The Modern Vital Podcast. Your support means the world to us, and we hope you continue to find value in the information we provide. Please remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share our podcast with others who might benefit from this content. Until next time, stay informed and proactive in your pursuit of health and wellness!
Synopsis
In this episode of The Modern Vital Podcast, the ketogenic diet takes the spotlight. Dr. Reebs begins by sharing a fascinating fact about the diet’s origin, tracing it back to its initial use by Russell Wilder in 1921 as a treatment for epilepsy. He delves into the science behind how the ketogenic diet affects the brain, reducing glutamate levels and enhancing GABA synthesis, which contributes to improved seizure control. He then discusses the macronutrient ratios of a ketogenic diet and explains the physiological and biochemical processes that occur when the body enters a state of ketosis.
The podcast also touches on the economic impact of the ketogenic diet, highlighting its substantial market value and continued growth. Dr. Reebs emphasizes that while the ketogenic diet has gained popularity, it is essential to differentiate between nutritional ketosis and the life-threatening condition known as ketoacidosis. He explores the potential benefits of the ketogenic diet, including increased energy production from ketone bodies compared to glucose and improved antioxidant capacity. Additionally, the episode examines the short-term and long-term effects of the diet, emphasizing the importance of monitoring electrolytes and potential side effects such as the “keto flu” and vitamin deficiencies.
As the episode concludes, practical tips for those considering a ketogenic diet are provided. Listeners are encouraged to understand the basic principles of the diet, plan meals ahead of time, be mindful of individual food sensitivities, track macronutrient intake, monitor biometrics, gradually transition into keto, stay hydrated, manage electrolytes, prioritize quality fats, and seek support from healthcare professionals and keto communities. Dr. Reebs stresses the significance of consulting a medical provider before making any dietary changes.
Listeners are encouraged to reach out with questions, suggestions, or feedback, and to join the next episode of The Modern Vital Podcast for more insights into health and well-being.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into understanding the intricacies of chronic disease and its impact on your overall well-being, consider checking out Dr. Reebs’ book, “The Serpent & The Butterfly: The Seven Laws of Healing.” In this book, he discusses thyroid health and much more to help you on your journey to optimal wellness. Click here to purchase your copy: https://www.drreebs.com/serpent-butterfly-book/
Additionally, if you’re interested in a supplement designed to directly support your digestion, we recommend trying Digest: Gentian & Skullcap Capsules. These capsules are formulated with natural ingredients that can help improve and support overall digestive health. To learn more and purchase, visit: https://www.drreebs.com/digest-gentian-skullcap-capsules/
Thank you for joining us on The Modern Vital Podcast. Your support means the world to us, and we hope you continue to find value in the information we provide. Please remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share our podcast with others who might benefit from this content. Until next time, stay informed and proactive in your pursuit of health and wellness!
Synopsis
In this episode of The Modern Vital Podcast, the focus is on the mTOR pathway, a crucial protein complex responsible for regulating cell growth, metabolism, and survival in response to various environmental signals. The discussion highlights that mTOR is both activated and inhibited by exercise and plays a key role in extending our lifespan and health span. The pathway is involved in various diseases, such as cancer, metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes, and neurological disorders.
The connection between insulin resistance and mTOR is explored, with the idea that mTOR activity can be modulated by diet, lifestyle, and environment. Caloric restriction and exercise, particularly high-intensity interval training, have been shown to impact mTOR activity. Additionally, supporting our mitochondria through nutrients can also support the mTOR pathway. Insulin resistance, which is the main factor in many diseases, can impair mTOR signaling and lead to problems like sarcopenia.
Lastly, the podcast suggests ways to activate the mTOR pathway, emphasizing the need for the right balance of activation. Resistance training, adequate protein intake, sun exposure, and mitochondrial support through supplements can all contribute to mTOR activation. The conclusion stresses the importance of activating the mTOR pathway daily to support longevity and overall health.
Synopsis
Dr. Ben Reebs hosts Kim O’Neil Lear, the Director of Education and Communications at GreenWave International, on The Modern Vital Podcast to discuss the potential health effects of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and their mitigation solutions. Lear’s personal journey with EMFs began when her spouse became electrically hypersensitive in 2006, which led to the establishment of a startup company focused on EMF education and mitigation.
In part two of this interview, Lear explains that while ionizing forms of radiation, such as UV radiation and x-rays, are acknowledged to affect our health, non-ionizing forms of radiation like EMF were long believed to be harmless unless they had enough energy or power to heat body tissue. However, research now shows that non-ionizing radiation can have biological and physiological effects on our bodies down to the cellular level, even at levels below what are considered heating levels. Extended exposure to EMFs can lead to unpleasant health symptoms and serious diseases.
To protect oneself from EMF exposure, Lear recommends first becoming aware of the different types of EMF pollution and common sources of them in our everyday environment. Measuring one’s exposure with different measurement tools can help identify sources and guide mitigation efforts. General guidelines for reducing exposure include minimizing use of EMF-generating technology, replacing sources with alternatives that don’t produce as much EMF, maximizing distance between oneself and the EMF source, and being mindful of how much time one spends on devices. Starting with small changes in the sleeping environment can have a significant impact on health, especially for children who are more vulnerable to EMFs.
Synopsis
In this episode of The Modern Vital Podcast, the discussion revolves around electromagnetic fields (EMFs), their potential health effects, and mitigation solutions. Host Dr. Ben Reebs welcomes Kim O’Neil Lear, the Director of Education and Communications at GreenWave International, as a special guest. Lear shares her personal journey with EMFs when her spouse became electrically hypersensitive in 2006, which led to the establishment of a startup company focused on EMF education and mitigation.
Lear goes on to explain the different types of EMFs, both natural and human-made. She highlights the dramatic change in our environment over the past 125 years, with the introduction of electricity and wireless technologies. She also describes the four prevalent types of artificial EMF pollution found in our daily lives: power frequency electric fields, power frequency magnetic fields, dirty electricity, and wireless radiation. Research has shown that non-ionizing radiation, previously thought to be harmless, can cause biological and physiological changes in our bodies, leading to unpleasant health symptoms and potential long-term diseases.
Tune into this eye-opening episode of The Modern Vital Podcast as they delve further into the world of EMFs and how we can protect ourselves from their potential dangers.
Listeners are encouraged to reach out with questions, suggestions, or feedback, and to join the next episode of The Modern Vital Podcast for more insights into health and well-being.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into understanding the intricacies of chronic disease and its impact on your overall well-being, consider checking out Dr. Reebs’ book, “The Serpent & The Butterfly: The Seven Laws of Healing.” In this book, he discusses thyroid health and much more to help you on your journey to optimal wellness. Click here to purchase your copy: https://www.drreebs.com/serpent-butterfly-book/
Additionally, if you’re interested in a supplement designed to directly support your digestion, we recommend trying Digest: Gentian & Skullcap Capsules. These capsules are formulated with natural ingredients that can help improve and support overall digestive health. To learn more and purchase, visit: https://www.drreebs.com/digest-gentian-skullcap-capsules/
Thank you for joining us on The Modern Vital Podcast. Your support means the world to us, and we hope you continue to find value in the information we provide. Please remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share our podcast with others who might benefit from this content. Until next time, stay informed and proactive in your pursuit of health and wellness!
If you’re looking to dive deeper into understanding the intricacies of chronic disease and its impact on your overall well-being, consider checking out my book, “The Serpent & The Butterfly: The Seven Laws of Healing.” In this book, I discuss thyroid health and much more to help you on your journey to optimal wellness. Click here to purchase your copy: https://www.drreebs.com/serpent-butterfly-book/
Additionally, if you’re interested in a supplement designed to directly support your digestion, I recommend trying my Digest: Gentian & Skullcap Capsules. These capsules are formulated with natural ingredients that can help improve and support overall digestive health. To learn more and purchase, visit: https://www.drreebs.com/digest-gentian-skullcap-capsules/
Thank you for joining us on The Modern Vital Podcast. Your support means the world to us, and we hope you continue to find value in the information we provide. Please remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share our podcast with others who might benefit from this content. Until next time, stay informed and proactive in your pursuit of health and wellness!
Synopsis
In this episode of The Modern Vital Podcast, Dr. Ben Reebs discusses how reduced blood flow can cause cellular inflammation, which can lead to various health issues. The three primary factors contributing to this phenomenon are nutrient deficiency, toxicity, and mitochondrial insufficiency. Dr. Reebs explains how reduced blood flow can disrupt the balance of microorganisms in the gut, leading to dysbiosis and an imbalance in the composition and function of the microbiome. He also discusses how proper blood flow and oxygen levels are crucial for our overall well-being and how the modern world is currently facing an epidemic of oxygen deficiency.
To counteract these factors, Dr. Reebs provides evidence-based strategies to increase oxygen levels in the body. These include reducing exposure to air pollution, engaging in regular physical exercise, incorporating proper breathing techniques, spending time in nature, and considering hyperbaric oxygen therapy. He also discusses various naturopathic practices that can improve oxygenation, such as drinking water, maintaining a balanced nutrient-dense diet, stress management practices, adequate sleep, and herbal support.
Overall, Dr. Reebs stresses the importance of supporting blood flow in our bodies, making sure we are well oxygenated, and engaging in therapies to replete deficiency, lower toxicity, optimize our energy levels, and lower inflammation in the body. He recommends consulting with a naturopathic doctor to put together an individualized healthcare plan for your health journey.
Listeners are encouraged to reach out with questions, suggestions, or feedback, and to join the next episode of The Modern Vital Podcast for more insights into health and well-being.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into understanding the intricacies of chronic disease and its impact on your overall well-being, consider checking out Dr. Reebs’ book, “The Serpent & The Butterfly: The Seven Laws of Healing.” In this book, he discusses thyroid health and much more to help you on your journey to optimal wellness. Click here to purchase your copy: https://www.drreebs.com/serpent-butterfly-book/
Additionally, if you’re interested in a supplement designed to directly support your digestion, we recommend trying Digest: Gentian & Skullcap Capsules. These capsules are formulated with natural ingredients that can help improve and support overall digestive health. To learn more and purchase, visit: https://www.drreebs.com/digest-gentian-skullcap-capsules/
Thank you for joining us on The Modern Vital Podcast. Your support means the world to us, and we hope you continue to find value in the information we provide. Please remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share our podcast with others who might benefit from this content. Until next time, stay informed and proactive in your pursuit of health and wellness!
If you’re looking to dive deeper into understanding the intricacies of chronic disease and its impact on your overall well-being, consider checking out my book, “The Serpent & The Butterfly: The Seven Laws of Healing.” In this book, I discuss thyroid health and much more to help you on your journey to optimal wellness. Click here to purchase your copy: https://www.drreebs.com/serpent-butterfly-book/
Additionally, if you’re interested in a supplement designed to directly support your digestion, I recommend trying my Digest: Gentian & Skullcap Capsules. These capsules are formulated with natural ingredients that can help improve and support overall digestive health. To learn more and purchase, visit: https://www.drreebs.com/digest-gentian-skullcap-capsules/
Thank you for joining us on The Modern Vital Podcast. Your support means the world to us, and we hope you continue to find value in the information we provide. Please remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share our podcast with others who might benefit from this content. Until next time, stay informed and proactive in your pursuit of health and wellness!
Synopsis
In this episode of The Modern Vital Podcast, Dr. Ben reebs discusses the benefits of traditional and far infrared sauna use. A Finnish study reveals that frequent sauna use can significantly reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and cardiovascular events, while also improving cognitive function and overall brain health. Sauna use supports detoxification by upregulating the body’s organs of elimination, including the liver, kidneys, and skin. Sweating during sauna sessions helps excrete more toxins, unclogs pores, and removes dead skin cells, leading to clearer, healthier skin.
Dr. Reebs suggests several practical tips for maximizing sauna benefits, including staying well-hydrated, dry brushing the skin before entering the sauna, and taking binders like activated charcoal or clay an hour after the session to help remove toxins. Finishing with a cold shower or plunge can further enhance detoxification, while pre-sauna exercise may increase circulation and promote sweating. Post-sauna, it’s crucial to replenish electrolytes and essential nutrients lost through sweating.
Listeners are encouraged to reach out with questions, suggestions, or feedback, and to join the next episode of The Modern Vital Podcast for more insights into health and well-being.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into understanding the intricacies of chronic disease and its impact on your overall well-being, consider checking out Dr. Reebs’ book, “The Serpent & The Butterfly: The Seven Laws of Healing.” In this book, he discusses thyroid health and much more to help you on your journey to optimal wellness. Click here to purchase your copy: https://www.drreebs.com/serpent-butterfly-book/
Additionally, if you’re interested in a supplement designed to directly support your digestion, we recommend trying Digest: Gentian & Skullcap Capsules. These capsules are formulated with natural ingredients that can help improve and support overall digestive health. To learn more and purchase, visit: https://www.drreebs.com/digest-gentian-skullcap-capsules/
Thank you for joining us on The Modern Vital Podcast. Your support means the world to us, and we hope you continue to find value in the information we provide. Please remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share our podcast with others who might benefit from this content. Until next time, stay informed and proactive in your pursuit of health and wellness!
Synopsis
In this episode of The Modern Vital Podcast, the focus is on rT3, a controversial topic in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid disease. The thyroid is the only organ that can absorb and use iodine, crucial for thyroid hormone production, which regulates metabolism, growth, and development. The thyroid gland is sensitive to oxidative stress and inflammation, which can lead to imbalances. Hypothyroidism affects approximately 5% of the US population, and many doctors order comprehensive thyroid panels, including rT3, to help identify root causes of imbalances.
Reverse T3 (rT3) is often debated in the medical community, as some studies do not indicate it is necessary to test in most cases. However, rT3 can provide valuable information about a person’s thyroid and overall health in the context of their individual case. It is essential to consider factors like liver inflammation and gut issues, which can impact thyroid metabolism and function. Nutrients like selenium, zinc, iodine, B-vitamins, and Ashwagandha can improve the conversion of FT4 to FT3, but certain factors can drive up rT3, including stress, low cortisol, chronic infections, and nutrient deficiencies.
While some practitioners argue that rT3 can block thyroid receptors, there is limited evidence to support this claim. It is known, however, that rT3 is associated with states of slowed metabolism and has been called the “hibernation hormone.” The ratio of T3 to rT3 is associated with insulin resistance, and some doctors suggest maintaining a ratio above 10 to avoid what they call “reverse T3 syndrome.” However, this term may not be helpful, as it doesn’t explain the root cause behind the imbalance. The key takeaway is that the thyroid is highly sensitive to environmental factors, and testing rT3 is an essential part of a comprehensive hormone panel, particularly when adopting a holistic, root cause approach for each individual.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into understanding the intricacies of chronic disease and its impact on your overall well-being, consider checking out Dr. Reebs’ book, “The Serpent & The Butterfly: The Seven Laws of Healing.” In this book, he discusses the laws of healing essential to resolving chronic disease and much more to help you on your journey to optimal wellness. Click here to purchase your copy: https://www.drreebs.com/serpent-butterfly-book/
Additionally, if you’re interested in a supplement designed to directly support your digestion, we recommend trying Digest: Gentian & Skullcap Capsules. These capsules are formulated with natural ingredients that can help improve and support overall digestive health. To learn more and purchase, visit: https://www.drreebs.com/digest-gentian-skullcap-capsules/
Thank you for joining us on The Modern Vital Podcast. Your support means the world to us, and we hope you continue to find value in the information we provide. Please remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share our podcast with others who might benefit from this content. Until next time, stay informed and proactive in your pursuit of health and wellness!
Synopsis
In this eye-opening episode of The Modern Vital Podcast, we delve into the fascinating world of the immune system and natural killer cells, discussing their roles in chronic infections and autoimmune diseases. Discover the differences between the innate and adaptive immune systems, and how an imbalance in these responses may be linked to conditions like Lyme disease, Epstein-Barr, Lupus, and Sjogren’s. Learn about the Th1/Th2 hypothesis and its implications for understanding why some people are more susceptible to getting sick.
We’ll also explore evidence-based natural therapies that can help support innate immunity and natural killer cell production. These therapies include Vitamin C, Vitamin D3, echinacea, selenium, beta-glucans, astragalus, skullcap flavones, and ozone therapy. Although the Th1/Th2 hypothesis may be simplistic, it offers valuable insights into how to strengthen the immune system and keep chronic infections and autoimmune diseases in check.
Don’t miss this exciting episode of The Modern Vital Podcast, where we’ll empower you with knowledge on how to harness your body’s natural defenses to stay healthy and vibrant. Whether you’re struggling with chronic infections or simply want to maintain a robust immune system, this episode is packed with practical tips and valuable information that can help you on your journey to optimal health.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into understanding the intricacies of chronic disease and its impact on your overall well-being, consider checking out Dr. Reebs’ book, “The Serpent & The Butterfly: The Seven Laws of Healing.” In this book, he discusses the laws of healing essential to resolving chronic disease and much more to help you on your journey to optimal wellness. Click here to purchase your copy: https://www.drreebs.com/serpent-butterfly-book/
Additionally, if you’re interested in a supplement designed to directly support your digestion, we recommend trying Digest: Gentian & Skullcap Capsules. These capsules are formulated with natural ingredients that can help improve and support overall digestive health. To learn more and purchase, visit: https://www.drreebs.com/digest-gentian-skullcap-capsules/
Thank you for joining us on The Modern Vital Podcast. Your support means the world to us, and we hope you continue to find value in the information we provide. Please remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share our podcast with others who might benefit from this content. Until next time, stay informed and proactive in your pursuit of health and wellness!