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Solving the Puzzle with Dr. Datis Kharrazian

Evidence-based functional medicine strategies for autoimmune, brain, and chronic health conditions.


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  • 42. Episode 42: Hormone Therapy Strategies

    01:23:10
    In this episode, Dr. Kharrazian provides insights on growth hormone deficiency, testosterone replacement therapy, strategies for PCOS and infertility, and much more. From discussing the use of growth hormone stimulating peptides to addressing heavy menstrual bleeding and gallbladder issues, this episode offers evidence-based approaches to optimizing endocrine function. Learn more at drknews.comFor patient-oriented courses, visit https://drknews.com/online-courses/For CE and CME practitioner courses, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/00:00 Gradual use of HRT therapy based on age.08:27 Customized hormone therapy starts with low doses.13:03 Testosterone therapy aids weight loss in men.20:15 Testosterone replacement therapy may benefit men with diabetes.23:10 Testosterone replacement therapy in men is safe.30:20 Men with low testosterone treated with injections.35:05 Managing testosterone levels in men, potential issues.38:09 Dietary and lifestyle strategies impact hormones clinically.48:13 Music therapy, blood sugar, ketogenic diet, sleep issues.52:33 Nutraceuticals impact insulin resistance; fasting benefits.56:09 Women in menopause may experience gallbladder issues.01:03:26 Nutraceutical protocols, insulin signaling, PCOS treatment options.01:10:20 Evaluate hypoglycemia, insulin resistance, and dietary history.01:16:18 Decide on hormone therapy based on risks.01:17:43 Understanding aging and its impact on health.01:22:32 Podcast content not a substitute for medical advice.

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  • 41. Episode 41: Understanding Hormone Disorders

    01:29:48
    In this episode we dive into the intricate web of hormone imbalances, menstrual disorders, and andropause. We explore the impact of estrogen and progesterone imbalances on the menstrual cycle, as well as the role of prostaglandin imbalances in conditions like dysmenorrhea and PMS. We also uncover the complexities of andropause in males and address the various symptoms and treatment options available.Learn more at drknews.comFor patient-oriented courses, visit https://drknews.com/online-courses/For CE and CME practitioner courses, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com00:00 Female and male hormone transition patterns summarized.08:51 BMI impacts endocrine system, genetic factors matter.12:40 Excessive estrogen production causes gynecomastia in men.18:51 Prostaglandins influence menstrual pain and discomfort.26:21 Causes of heavy or light menstrual bleeding.32:24 High DHE and testosterone levels suggest PCOS.33:24 PCOS symptoms can normalize with metabolic control.38:45 PCOS pathophysiology, treatment, and clinical manifestations.45:19 Adrenal glands help manage perimenopausal symptoms.49:33 Hormonal changes in perimenopause cause inflammatory response.59:03 Inflammation and hormones affect women's health.01:03:18 Menopause can worsen underlying health conditions.01:06:44 Adulthood: decline in male function and symptoms.01:13:49 LH levels range indicates potential hormone balance.01:16:27 Free testosterone is crucial, especially as we age.01:25:04 Normal range testosterone, relative hypogonad men, DHT.01:27:26 Male and female hormone disorders patterns explained.
  • 40. Episode 40: Hormone Balancing through Gut Health

    59:42
    In this episode, Dr. Kharrazian delves into the world of hormone imbalances, microbiome diversity, and the impact of polyphenols and phytoestrogens. He discusses evidence-based strategies for autoimmune disease, brain health issues, and chronic health conditions, and sheds light on the pivotal role of gut health in estrogen metabolism. He also addresses nutraceutical support for insulin resistance and regulating testosterone.  For patient-oriented courses, visit https://drknews.com/online-courses/For CE and CME practitioner courses, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/00:00 Transitioning off HRT may benefit from modulators.06:05 Flavonoids affect estrogen receptor, 4 key foods.10:05 Healthy microbiome diversity enhances effectiveness of soy products.11:16 Carbs impact conversion of phytoestrogens efficiently.16:29 Gut health crucial for managing estrogen disorders.18:57 Diet, lifestyle, supplements affect microbiome diversity.20:53 Liver pathways detoxifying hormones, potential competition. Nutrients aid hepatic inflammation support.26:51 Essential fatty acids are critical for health.30:29 Prostate glands cause pelvic issues, need support.34:19 Men's testosterone, estrogen testing, insulin resistance, obesity, blood sugar imbalances, hypoglycemia, insulin resistance, dietary guidelines.36:02 Optimize diet to prevent blood sugar crashes.39:41 Review found herbal medicines improve PCOS symptoms.42:41 Aggressive protocol for PCOS using nutraceuticals.47:19 Nutraceuticals may protect serotonin cells, boost testosterone.50:44 Botanicals boost testosterone levels but may vary.53:42 Glial cells switch to pro-inflammatory state. Hormone changes amplify neuroinflammation.56:35 Peptides stimulate hormones, potential for endocrine treatment.58:37 Dr. Kharrazian's podcast and blog information.
  • 39. Episode 39: Hormone Imbalance & Obesity

    01:29:43
    In this episode, Dr. Kharrazian provides insight into the impact of obesity on male and female hormone imbalances, infertility, and the body's endocrine system. From the role of adipose tissue to the effects of hormone replacement therapy, this episode explores the complexities of hormone balance and offers evidence-based strategies for managing these crucial aspects of health. Dr. Kharrazian discusses blood glucose management, gut health, and the impact of hormone deficiencies on mitochondrial function and other aspects of physiology.For patient-oriented courses, visit https://drknews.com/online-courses/For CE and CME practitioner courses, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/Learn more at drknews.comTimestamps:00:00 Hormones impact mitochondria, affecting cellular function.09:31 Mitochondrial health affects recovery and signaling pathways.12:00 Hormone replacement may fix mitochondrial dysfunction. Stress affects mitochondria.16:22 Certain genetic factors can increase health risks.25:26 Aromatization causes body fat increase, vicious cycle.31:00 Estrogen drop in women leads to fat tissue.32:52 Steroid use can disrupt endocrine system balance.42:35 Healthy adrenal function is crucial in perimenopause.48:03 Adrenal gland imbalances and stress responses summarized.53:04 Insulin resistance causes blood sugar roller coaster.57:10 Symptom patterns indicating early stages of insulin resistance.01:02:30 Gut bacteria convert chemicals and hormones.01:08:19 Hormone deficiency causes leaky gut, affecting health.01:12:26 Inflammatory diets cause low testosterone levels.01:20:18 Hormones critical for health and disease prevention.01:23:28 Hormone imbalances affect brain recovery and health.01:28:20 For more info visit drknews.com/podcast.
  • 38. Episode 38: Hormone Imbalance and Environmental Toxins

    01:27:14
    In today's episode, we dive into the impact of hormone imbalance on overall health. From the critical role of adequate sleep in hormone regulation to the potential effects of environmental chemicals on endocrine function, Dr. Kharrazian shares valuable insights and evidence-based strategies for managing hormone imbalances.For patient-oriented courses, visit https://drknews.com/online-courses/For CE and CME practitioner courses, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/Learn more at drknews.com00:00 Toxic chemicals in everyday products, impacts on health.09:13 Endocrine disrupting chemicals impact female reproductive function.12:57 Endocrine disrupting chemicals impact PCOS in females.18:47 Endocrine disrupting chemicals impact serious health conditions.22:17 Inflammation impacts male testosterone and female infertility.32:18 Aquifers impact water supply with hormones, pharmaceuticals.34:54 Use multiple layers of water filtering systems.43:10 Air pollution impacts cortisol and microbiome health.48:26 Intense exercise is important for hormonal balance.52:57 Low or high body mass affects hormones.58:06 Injections are crucial for male obesity issues.01:03:36 Muscle mass affects health risks in obesity.01:08:32 Suppressed FSH, low TSH, hormone-related issues.01:12:27 Hormones, sleep, and strategies for better rest.01:19:50 Minimum needed protein is 1g/lb body weight.01:24:18 Blood sugar: Hypoglycemia vs insulin resistance management.
  • 37. Episode 37: Personalized Strategies for Balancing Hormones

    01:23:13
    In this episode, we take a deep dive into the intricate world of hormone imbalances and hormone replacement therapy. Dr. Kharrazian discusses the latest research findings, revealing a clear linear dose-response relationship between oral contraceptive use and the risk of hypertension, as well as the links between hormone replacement therapy and various health concerns. We explore the complexities of hormone disorders and the need for a personalized approach to treatment, discussing the impact of hormones on clinical function, the liver, and the gut microbiome. Join us as we uncover the vital connection between hormones and overall health, as well as the challenges individuals face in receiving appropriate evaluation and treatment for hormone-related issues in the current healthcare system.Learn more at drknews.com00:00 Hormone disorders treated with diverse approaches.08:13 Hormone replacement therapies and over-the-counter options.14:10 Different types of hormonal contraceptives can cause weight gain and mood disorders.18:50 Glial cells produce main hormone for synaptic activity.25:45 Hormone replacement therapy not recommended for everyone.30:43 Testosterone therapy shows health benefits with low risk.37:49 Variety of lifestyle strategies for hormone balance.39:54 Viral infection may require immediate symptom management.48:43 Stimulating dysfunctional gland, hormones, pituitary issues, hormones.53:18 Protein pathways impact hormone levels causing symptoms.58:19 Androgel may not effectively metabolize into hormones.01:02:16 Microbiome dysbiosis consequences, particularly linked to hormones.01:08:23 Estradiol strongest, estrone not as strong.01:11:19 Urinary labs may not accurately test hormones.01:16:20 Maintain resiliency for hormone levels, health longevity.
  • 36. Episode 36: How chronic systemic inflammation impacts the body and brain

    01:02:53
    In this talk, Dr. Kharrazian reviews the many pathways through which inflammation impacts the body. In a nutshell, inflammation is like throwing fuel onto the fire. Wherever you already have issues with pain or inflammation, an inflammatory diet and other triggers will simply worsen those conditions. Aging is another consideration — as we age we naturally become more prone to inflammation due to the gradual decline of the body's antioxidant systems. You will learn about these mechanisms, how to find triggers of inflammation, and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant strategies to mitigate the damage.Find out more on drknews.com.[00:00:24] . So now, when you're looking at what causes inflammation, the first answer is an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants. Inflammation can also be caused by an imbalance of our microbiome. Systemic inflammation caused by imbalance of free radicals/antioxidants and microbiome.[00:23:37] Antioxidants and anti-inflammatories protect body from free radicals; various compounds have different mechanisms; common ones include vitamin E, fish oils, antihistamines, resveratrol, turmeric, vitamin A, vitamin C, and liposomal glutathione.[00:26:06] C reactive protein is a blood biomarker used as a general marker for inflammation. High levels (over 3 or 5) can indicate disease, but not all inflammation increases production of CRP.[00:30:21] Insulin resistance causes chronic inflammation, immune response, free radicals and oxidative stress, leading to tissue damage.[00:32:30] Exercise can cause inflammation in those with chronic conditions, so they should work their way up, clean their diet, and take antioxidants.[00:34:45] Neurogenic inflammation triggered by stress, lack of sleep and unhealthy relationships.[00:37:52] Turmeric has active curcuminoids that have an anti-inflammatory effect; people have different cost-benefit ratios for using it; other anti-inflammatory compounds may be more effective for some people.[00:43:36] Gut Puzzle program teaches diet, lifestyle, and understanding of gut dysfunctions to treat sibo and other conditions.[00:46:41] Cortisol has a bi-directional effect on inflammation, health, and gut; acute stress is anti-inflammatory, chronic stress is catabolic and can create inflammatory responses.[00:51:09] Gut motility problems, such as those caused by inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases, can lead to chronic constipation. Gut Health Puzzle program teaches how to address these issues.