• Episode 53: The Impact of Bone and Joint Health on Chronic Illness Recovery
    Sep 8 2025

    In this episode, Dr. Datis Kharrazian explains what happens to our muscles as we age and why maintaining muscle mass is crucial for mobility, bone density, cognition, metabolic and immune health, and recovery from chronic illness. You’ll hear actionable insights about sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss), the muscle-gut connection, the power of myokines, and how hormones, nutrition, and strategic exercise can make a life-or-death difference.


    You’ll hear evidence-based guidance on protein intake, key nutrients, common causes of dysfunctional muscle metabolism, and how to identify and address issues like statin-induced myopathy and abnormal muscle tone.


    To dive deeper, enroll in the Kharrazian Institute’s Degenerative Joint, Muscle, and Bone Conditions Course.

    Sign up here: https://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/ki-bone-joint


    • For patient-oriented functional medicine courses, visit https://drknews.com/online-courses/
    • For practitioner functional medicine certification courses, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/
    • For Certified Functional Nutrition education for both practitioners and lay people, visit https://afnlm.com/


    00:00 "Muscle Mass Essential for Longevity"

    03:05 Sarcopenia Significantly Increases Mortality Risk

    08:58 Muscle-Gut Axis Influencers: Diet, Hormones, Exercise

    10:56 Gut-Muscle Axis: Impact on Fitness

    13:09 Gut-Muscle Connection: Sarcopenia Insights

    17:33 Muscle Metabolism and Protein Sufficiency

    20:02 Protein Intake Crucial for Muscle Maintenance

    25:30 Muscle Issues: Causes and Solutions

    27:26 Creatine: Muscle Boost and Benefits

    32:19 Accelerated Muscle Aging Process

    35:52 Improving Muscle Metabolism with Autophagy

    38:58 Statins Linked to Muscle Dysfunction

    40:00 Statin Impact on Muscle Health

    43:08 Trigger Points and Myofascial Pain

    48:17 Myofascial Syndromes and Muscle Dysfunction

    52:52 Functional Medicine Training and Resources


    Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    54 mins
  • Episode 52: How bone, joint, and muscle health influences chronic disease recovery
    Aug 26 2025

    In this episode, you’ll learn how movement directly influences your metabolism, immune system, brain function, and even the diversity of your gut microbiome. Dr. Kharrazian explains the critical role of messenger proteins released during physical activity, why maintaining muscle mass and bone density is key to longevity, and how inflammation can undermine your body’s ability to recover.


    • For patient-oriented functional medicine courses, visit https://drknews.com/online-courses/
    • For practitioner functional medicine certification courses, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/
    • For Certified Functional Nutrition education for both practitioners and lay people, visit https://afnlm.com/


    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

    00:30 How Physical Movement Impacts Health

    01:54 Bone Volume, Osteopenia, and Health Consequences

    02:56 Toxic Chemicals, Bone Loss, and Aging

    03:50 Muscle Mass, Sarcopenia, and Mortality

    04:38 Movement, Depression, and Brain Chemistry

    05:15 Movement, Myokines, and Immune Function

    05:59 Microbiome Diversity, Gut Health, and Inactivity

    06:32 Overtraining Syndrome and its Red Flags

    07:11 Exercise, Mitochondrial Health, and Chronic Disease

    07:49 Movement & Brain Health: Repair, Mood, and Cognitive Disorders

    08:25 Sedentary Lifestyle in Children & Sarcopenia Risks

    09:45 Medical Management of Osteoporosis and Arthritis

    10:55 Inflammation, Muscular and Skeletal Degeneration

    12:16 Body Fat, Skinny Fat, and Inflammation

    12:46 Insulin Surges and Systemic Inflammation

    13:31 Microbiome, Leaky Gut, and Chronic Inflammatory Disease

    16:04 Food, Environmental Toxins, and Inflammation

    18:09 Protein Intake and Recovery from Chronic Disease

    19:12 Sleep, Sleep Apnea, and Bone Health

    19:57 Regenerative Medicine Therapies

    21:34 Conclusion and Podcast Resources



    Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    22 mins
  • Episode 51: Dr. Joseph Pizzorno’s Insights on Functional Medicine and Environmental Health
    Jun 3 2025

    Welcome back to Solving the Puzzle with Dr. Datis Kharrazian, the podcast where evidence-based functional medicine meets real-world application. In this episode, Dr. Joseph Pizzorno, a pioneering voice in environmental medicine and toxicology dives into the hidden world of environmental toxins—discussing the staggering number of chemicals we're exposed to every day, why testing for toxins can be more complex than most realize, and which common exposures may be silently sabotaging our health.


    Dr. Pizzorno reveals the challenges in accurately measuring toxic load, the wide differences in our bodies’ abilities to detoxify, and why focusing on exposure and biological damage is often more useful than hunting for specific chemicals in the blood or urine. You'll learn about practical strategies for identifying and reducing toxin exposure, the synergistic effects of multiple chemicals, and simple steps you can take to support your body’s natural defenses.


    Whether you're a clinician wanting clinical pearls or someone seeking to optimize your health in an increasingly toxic world, this episode will empower you with the knowledge and tools to take action.


    For patient-oriented courses, visit https://drknews.com/online-courses/

    For CE and CME practitioner courses, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/


    For patient-oriented courses, visit https://drknews.com/online-courses/

    For CE and CME practitioner courses, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/


    00:00 Assessing Exposure and Detox Challenges

    03:37 "Assessing Synergistic Environmental Toxins"

    07:09 "Toxic Load vs. Disease Correlation"

    11:24 Tea Habits and Water Concentration

    16:24 Chemical Impact on Neurological Health

    17:48 Persistent Human-Made Molecules

    23:20 Bisphenols Lowering Children's IQ

    26:18 Chemical Food Sources & Glyphosate Exposure

    28:26 Cerrillini's Impact on Glyphosate Regulation

    32:50 "Assessing Kidney Toxicity via EGFR"

    36:44 "Enhancing Body Detoxification"

    37:42 "Detox Strategy: Sweat and Monitor"

    Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    17 mins
  • Episode 49: Navigating Parasitic Infections
    Feb 10 2025

    In this episode of "Solving the Puzzle with Dr. Datis Kharrazian," we dive into the intricate world of gastrointestinal health, focusing specifically on the common pathogen Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and various parasites affecting the human body. Dr. Kharrazian as explores the pathophysiological mechanisms of these infections, their clinical presentations, and the potential systemic health issues they can trigger, including autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular risks, and gastrointestinal disturbances.


    Learn more at drknews.com


    For patient-oriented courses, visit https://drknews.com/online-courses/

    For CE and CME practitioner courses, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/


    00:00 H. Pylori Pathogenesis Explained

    05:45 H. Pylori: Symptoms and Risks

    11:58 H. Pylori's Broad Health Impact

    19:24 Urea Breath Test for H. Pylori

    25:40 Digestive Health Supplement Strategies

    32:05 Malaria Symptoms and Transmission Overview

    36:49 Dormant Malaria Parasite Reactivation

    39:24 Asymptomatic Malaria: Hidden Transmission Risk

    46:07 Parasite Transmission Via Poor Hygiene

    51:12 Deworming Benefits for HIV Patients

    57:24 Mixed Results in Autoimmune Disease Treatment

    01:04:05 "Chronic Infections and Immune Function"

    01:06:46 Sleep's Role in Immunity

    01:14:47 Bile Acids: Key Immune Regulators

    01:21:25 Mucosal Immunity and Microbiome Health

    01:22:37 Factors Affecting Microbiome Diversity




    Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    1 hr and 26 mins
  • Episode 48: Neurological Health and Interventions with Randy Vawdry, NP-C
    Feb 7 2025

    In today's episode, Dr. Kharrazian interviews Randy Vawdry, NP-C, a respected nurse practitioner who has carved a niche in the realm of functional medicine. With a background ranging from nursing home care to urgent care, Randy brings a wealth of practical experience to our discussion about neurological health and treatment. We dive into his innovative approaches to neurological health, exploring how metabolic health, hormone optimization, and understanding traumatic brain injuries can revolutionize patient care. Randy shares invaluable insights from his clinical practice and educational endeavors, shedding light on how practitioners can master the complexities of brain health to improve outcomes for themselves, their patients, and even their loved ones.


    SIGN UP HERE: http://pages.kharrazianinstitute.com/vawdrey-neurological-disorders


    Learn more at kharrazianinstitute.com

    For patient-oriented courses, visit https://drknews.com/online-courses/

    For CE and CME practitioner courses, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/


    00:00 Master Class with Expert Clinician

    04:26 Optimizing Neurological Health Priorities

    06:35 Value of Mastering Functional Medicine

    10:16 Prioritize Brain Health for Practitioners

    13:18 Simplifying Complex Concepts

    17:40 Lifestyle Medicine and Hormone Optimization

    20:41 Rethinking Functional Medicine Approach

    24:35 Functional Medicine's Inexperience Problem

    28:33 "Symptoms Are the Disease"

    29:17 Lifestyle Choices and Alzheimer's Prevention

    33:59 "Promoting Continuous Glucose Monitoring"

    37:19 Master Class on Neurological Care

    39:27 Podcast Disclaimer and Dr. Kharrazian's Disclosures

    Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian.


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    40 mins
  • Episode 47: Chronic Lyme Disease and Mold Illnesses
    Jan 4 2025

    This episode dives into the complex world of chronic infections, with a particular focus on the far-reaching impacts of Lyme disease and mold-related illnesses. We explore the debilitating symptoms of chronic Lyme disease, from severe fatigue and chronic joint pain to the potential for neurological damage and heart complications. Our discussion highlights the often-misunderstood overlap between ongoing infections and autoimmune responses, revealing how mismanagement of Lyme can lead to persistent health challenges. Mold illness and mycotoxins are also discussed.


    Learn more at drknews.com


    For patient-oriented courses, visit https://drknews.com/online-courses/

    For CE and CME practitioner courses, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/


    00:00 Ticks must be removed quickly to prevent Lyme.

    03:13 Bull's-eye rash indicates Lyme disease; treat immediately.

    08:29 Chronic Lyme disease severely impacts daily functioning.

    10:31 Lyme disease disrupts metabolism, causing persistent symptoms.

    16:05 Infection triggers lasting brain inflammation, causing issues.

    17:06 Bacteria location influences Lyme disease symptoms severity.

    20:19 Post Lyme syndrome involves neurological autoimmune issues.

    25:21 Chronic Lyme impacts include autoimmunity, microbiome issues.

    29:01 Mold triggers allergies; toxic mold releases mycotoxins.

    33:14 Sensitivity to mold varies; immune reactions differ.

    33:54 Common cleaning methods can't completely remove mold.

    39:37 Mycotoxins influence intestinal permeability and healing.

    42:48 Mycotoxins trigger immune reactions, affecting mold-sensitive individuals.

    45:11 Gut dysbiosis is influenced by mycotoxins and immunity.

    48:42 Mold sensitization can cause lifelong health issues.

    52:02 Mold spores cause symptoms; mycotoxins affect everyone.


    Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian.


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    55 mins
  • Episode 46: Navigating Chronic Infections
    Nov 12 2024

    In this episode, Dr. Kharrazian discusses chronic infections and antibiotic resistance. Topics include hidden pathogen reservoirs, the role of biofilms in persistent illnesses, and why future generations may struggle with basic bacterial treatment. Hear about innovative strategies like probiotics, fecal transplants, and natural disruptors combating resistant strains. Discover how maintaining immune health is key to battling evolving bacteria and learn practical tips to protect yourself.


    Learn more at drknews.com


    For patient-oriented courses, visit https://drknews.com/online-courses/

    For CE and CME practitioner courses, visit https://kharrazianinstitute.com/


    00:00 Bacteria classified by Gram stain, cause illness.

    07:25 Intestinal permeability leads to severe systemic inflammation.

    10:58 Systemic inflammation, endotoxemia: barrier breakdown, severe illness.

    20:21 Mycobacterium tuberculosis can reactivate when immunocompromised.

    26:06 Biofilms cause 80% of chronic bacterial infections.

    28:25 Biofilms influence IBS and ulcerative colitis severity.

    33:04 Biofilms cause persistent infections and antibiotic resistance.

    38:51 Combine medication and natural medicine for bacterial biofilms.

    45:30 Genetic predisposition causes recurrent E. coli infections.

    50:48 Poor hygiene impacts multiple body systems significantly.

    55:28 Bacteria developed resistance, antibiotics became ineffective.

    01:05:44 Probiotics with antibiotics reduce post-surgery complications.

    01:11:30 Antibiotics disrupt crucial short chain fatty acid levels.

    01:13:13 Use antibiotics, probiotics, and short-chain fatty acids.

    01:18:06 Candida aids immunity but causes problems if overpopulated.






    Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/solving-the-puzzle-with-dr-datis-kharrazian.


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    1 hr and 21 mins