Extend Podcast with Darshan Shah, MD

Extend with Darshan Shah, MD is a podcast dedicated to cutting-edge science, research, tools, and protocols designed to help you extend your healthspan. Starting my medical journey at 16 and becoming one of the youngest doctors in the country, studying and training at the Mayo Clinic, Harvard Business School, Singularity University and other prestigious institutions, becoming a board certified surgeon and accumulating over two decades of practice, I have discovered that a mere 20% of health knowledge yields 80% of the results. That's why this podcast is all about cutting through the noise on how to turn back the aging clock. I interview world-renowned medical practitioners, doctors, experts, and thought leaders, offering you a step-by-step guide and actionable advice to proactively avoid disease and optimize your health. Plus, I share weekly solo episodes giving you quick, digestible protocols for successfully extending your healthspan.

135. Sarah Ann Macklin: Self-Compassion and Sustainable Behavior Change 02/03/2026

135. Sarah Ann Macklin: Self-Compassion and Sustainable Behavior Change Most people know what they should do to be healthy, yet still struggle to follow through. What if the real barrier is not discipline or knowledge, but mindset. In this episode of Extend, we sit down with Sarah Ann Macklin, a nutritionist and health educator who blends nutrition science with psychology and self-compassion. Sarah shares her journey from high fashion modeling to nutritional science, and how burnout, illness, and neurodiversity shaped her approach to sustainable health. We explore why health changes often fail when driven by restriction and scarcity, how self-compassion creates lasting behavior change, and why ultra-processed foods, stress, and comparison culture sabotage both physical and mental health. Sarah also breaks down practical tools to reconnect with hunger cues, build healthier habits, and shift from self-criticism to an abundance mindset so health no longer feels hard, rigid, or overwhelming. What We Discuss: (00:00) Why people struggle to get healthy despite good advice (02:30) Self-compassion as the foundation of sustainable health (07:30) From high fashion modeling to nutrition and a major health wake-up call (14:30) Dyslexia, neurodivergence, and the first moment of self-compassion (18:30) Food and mental health, the SMILES trial, and omega-3 research (26:30) Body image, thinness myths, and the reality of the modeling industry (31:30) Social media, comparison culture, and rising body dysmorphia (38:30) The neuroscience of self-compassion and why positivity alone fails (43:30) Optimizers vs lapses and the shared feeling of not being enough (49:30) Clinical tools, mindful food journaling, and emotional awareness (54:30) Crash dieting, quick fixes, and why habits matter more than diets (01:00:00) Stress, mindset, and how rigid health plans backfire (01:03:30) Practical self-compassion tools and book announcement Thank You to Our Sponsors: IM8: Try IM8 today with a 30-day money back guarantee. You can get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at https://im8health.com/discount/DRSHAH. Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Sarah Ann Macklin: Instagram: Facebook: Linkedin: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39866940

134. Dr. Jessica Shepherd: Stop the Decline: Perimenopause Strategies 01/29/2026

134. Dr. Jessica Shepherd: Stop the Decline: Perimenopause Strategies Most people assume losing strength, energy, and bone health is inevitable as we age. But what if maintaining muscle, optimizing hormones, and protecting bone density were about targeting the right systems early rather than treating symptoms later? In this episode of Extend, we sit down with Dr. Jessica Shepherd, a board-certified OB/GYN and expert in midlife health and longevity. With years of experience merging clinical medicine with functional approaches, Dr. Shepherd shares how resistance training, hormone therapy, nutrition, and modern therapies like GLP-1 medications can work together to help women thrive through midlife and beyond. We talk about why muscle is the “organ of longevity,” how bone quality and hormonal balance impact strength and metabolism, and why small, consistent lifestyle changes such as squats, grip exercises, and functional movement can have massive long-term effects. Dr. Shepherd also explores strategies to boost energy, preserve functionality, and support overall health so you can age stronger, healthier, and more resilient. What We Discuss: (04:00) Why many physicians leave traditional medicine for longevity-focused care (07:50) Menopause, the WHI study, and how hormone therapy was misunderstood for decades (11:45) Perimenopause explained: early symptoms like brain fog, sleep disruption, and emotional changes (18:45) When women should start thinking about perimenopause and why conversations should begin in the late 30s (23:30) Patient autonomy: ruling out thyroid, mental health, stress, and nutrition before starting hormones (27:40) Hormones as optimization fuel for brain, bone, muscle, and metabolic health (30:15) Why muscle is the organ of longevity and how resistance training protects metabolism and strength (33:00) Bone health beyond density: early DEXA scans, bone quality, and osteoporosis prevention (36:30) Functional longevity tests: sit-to-stand, grip strength, farmer’s carry, and real-world strength (39:50) Motivation and quick wins: how HRT and GLP-1 therapies can accelerate lifestyle change (41:15) The synergy between hormone therapy and GLP-1 medications in perimenopause (44:40) The future of hormone therapy: individualized delivery and integrated longevity care models (46:45) Creating a well space for proactive health instead of reactive disease treatment Thank You to Our Sponsors: Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/drshah and use gift code DRSHAH25 for a $25 credit toward your membership. Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Jessica Shepherd: Instagram: Website: Linkedin: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39781360

133. Dr. Abid Husain: The Hidden Drivers of Heart Disease 01/27/2026

133. Dr. Abid Husain: The Hidden Drivers of Heart Disease Most people focus on cholesterol and plaque when thinking about heart health. The truth is, there are hidden drivers that can silently damage your arteries and increase cardiovascular risk. In this episode of Extend, we sit down with Dr. Abid Husain, cardiologist and expert in cardiometabolic health, to unpack how microvascular dysfunction, glycocalyx degradation, metabolic disease, and mental stress contribute to heart disease beyond traditional risk factors. We break down the role of nitric oxide, small dense LDL, clotting mechanisms, and the often overlooked impact of stress on cardiovascular health. We also explore how lifestyle interventions, targeted supplements like nattokinase and chondroitin sulfate, and metabolic management with GLP-1 therapies can strengthen vascular health and reduce hidden cardiovascular risk. Dr. Abid Husain is a cardiologist specializing in cardiometabolic medicine, who combines cutting-edge research with practical strategies to help patients optimize heart health, manage metabolic risk, and prevent cardiovascular disease. What We Discuss: (00:37) The glycocalyx: why it matters for cardiovascular health and how it protects arteries (08:50) Lifestyle strategies to strengthen the glycocalyx, including exercise and metabolic health (14:30) Supplements that support vascular integrity: nattokinase, lumbrokinase, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid (22:10) Testing glycocalyx health: syndecan serum test and ultrasound visualization (28:45) Thrombotic risk assessment, aspirin considerations, and personalized cardiovascular strategies (36:20) Metabolic disease as a root cause of heart disease and the role of GLP-1 therapies (44:00) Hidden liver dysfunction and early detection with fibroscan and imaging (50:10) Mental health and cardiovascular risk: stress, sympathetic overdrive, and cortisol balance (55:30) Daily practices to support heart and overall health: breathing, reflection, exercise, and sleep Thank You to Our Sponsors: IM8: Try IM8 today with a 30-day money back guarantee. You can get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at . Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Abid Husain: Instagram: Website: You Tube: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39781340

132. Nathalie Niddam: Reverse Aging Signals with Bioregulators and Peptides 01/22/2026

132. Nathalie Niddam: Reverse Aging Signals with Bioregulators and Peptides Most people assume fatigue, low energy, and age-related decline are unavoidable. What if supporting your body, optimizing recovery, and enhancing longevity were about activating the right systems, rather than chasing symptoms? In this episode of Extend, we sit down with Nathalie Niddam, holistic nutritionist, longevity educator, and host of the Longevity Podcast with Nathalie Niddam, to unpack how bioregulators, mitochondrial peptides, and targeted nutritional strategies can support cellular health, improve energy, and enhance resilience over time. We also explore how bioregulators influence DNA expression, how mitochondrial peptides restore cellular function, and how small, consistent interventions in nutrition and lifestyle can amplify overall vitality and longevity. Nathalie Niddam is a longevity educator and holistic nutritionist who hosts the Longevity Podcast, where she shares science-backed strategies, biohacking insights, and practical tools for optimizing health, energy, and long-term performance. What We Discuss: (00:00) Why Aging Isn’t Inevitable and How Bioregulators Work (06:12) The Russian Origins of Bioregulator Research and Key Studies (13:45) How Bioregulators Support Organ Function and Longevity (21:30) Integrating Bioregulators with Peptides for Maximum Benefit (29:10) Mitochondrial Health: SS31, MOTS-C, Humanin, and Phospholipids (36:55) Testing and Optimizing Fatty Acids and Deuterium for Cellular Energy (44:40) Practical Protocols: Stacking Bioregulators for Liver, Cardiovascular, and Metabolic Support (51:25) The Role of Lifestyle, Stress, and Nervous System in Aging Reversal Thank You to Our Sponsors: NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Nathalie Niddam: Instagram: Website: Linkedin: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39687760

131. Dr. Elizabeth Yurth: The Science of Ketones, Hormones, and Faster Recovery 01/20/2026

131. Dr. Elizabeth Yurth: The Science of Ketones, Hormones, and Faster Recovery Most people assume joint pain, fatigue, and limited mobility are inevitable with age. But what if protecting your joints, optimizing recovery, and maintaining energy were about targeting the right systems early, rather than treating symptoms later? In this episode of Extend, we sit down with Dr. Elizabeth Yurth, co-founder and chief medical officer of the Boulder Longevity Institute and a Stanford-trained sports and spine physician. With over 30 years of experience merging orthopedic expertise with longevity science, Dr. Yurth brings a unique perspective on preventing joint degeneration, accelerating healing, and supporting long-term metabolic and musculoskeletal health. We talk about why most arthritis isn’t caused by overuse, how the MEAT protocol replaces traditional approaches to injury, and why peptides, ketones, and regenerative therapies can dramatically improve recovery and joint function. We also explore strategies to protect joints before pain begins, maintain mobility over decades, and optimize overall energy and performance. What We Discuss: (00:00) Why Joint Pain, Fatigue, and Brain Fog Are Not Inevitable (05:38) How Ketones Optimize Mitochondrial Function and Energy Production (12:05) Hormone Balance for Joint, Bone, and Muscle Health (19:42) Reducing Inflammation and Activating Stem Cells Naturally (26:18) How Pentosan Polysulfate Can Regenerate Cartilage and Protect Joints (33:50) Blood Flow Restriction, Red Light Therapy, and Recovery Tools (40:27) Practical Strategies for Metabolic Flexibility and Long-Term Healing (48:15) Common Mistakes in Hormone Replacement and Nutritional Optimization Thank You to Our Sponsors: Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. Visit and use gift code DRSHAH25 for a $25 credit toward your membership. Vitaboom: Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit https://vitaboom.com/ Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Elizabeth Yurth:: Instagram: Linkedin: Boulder Longevity Institute: Human Optimization Academy: Youtube: Facebook: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39687745

130. Smarter Drinking: Cut Alcohol Without Sacrifice 01/15/2026

130. Smarter Drinking: Cut Alcohol Without Sacrifice How much control do you really have over your alcohol consumption and its effects on your health? Many people assume drinking is just part of social life, but science shows there are practical steps to reduce intake while still enjoying your routine. In this solo episode of Extend, Dr. Darshan Shah, longevity expert and founder of Next Health, breaks down why smarter drinking is a key strategy for improving sleep, metabolism, and long-term wellbeing. He explains how alcohol impacts the body, from disrupting sleep and recovery to impairing executive function, metabolism, and reward pathways. Timing, pace, and intentional strategies are critical, and even small, consistent adjustments can create significant benefits over time. Dr. Shah shares actionable, science-backed strategies that can be implemented without disrupting your lifestyle. These include stopping drinking hours before bed, slowing your pace, pre-deciding limits, using behavioral substitutions, pairing alcohol with meals, avoiding sugary mixers, tracking intake, and leveraging medical tools like naltrexone or GLP-1 receptor agonists when appropriate. Small, consistent changes over weeks and months can have a major impact on overall health and recovery. What We Discuss: (00:00) Introduction: Why Smarter Drinking Matters for Health and Recovery (02:15) How Alcohol Impacts Sleep, Metabolism, and Reward Pathways (06:40) Timing and Pace: Stop Drinking Before Bed and Space Drinks Strategically (11:05) Pre-Deciding Limits and Using Behavioral Substitutions for Social Situations (15:30) Pairing Alcohol with Meals and Avoiding Sugary Mixers (20:12) Tracking Intake and Using Data to Make Sustainable Changes (24:45) Medical Tools: Naltrexone and GLP-1 Receptor Agonists for Support (29:30) Putting It All Together: Practical Strategies for Cutting Back Safely (33:55) Long-Term Benefits: Improved Recovery, Energy, and Overall Health Thank You to Our Sponsors: IM8: Try IM8 today with a 30-day money back guarantee. You can get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at . Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39687720

129. Ashley Koff: The GLP-1 Conversation Most People Are Missing 01/13/2026

129. Ashley Koff: The GLP-1 Conversation Most People Are Missing Most people think weight loss is about discipline, calories, or finding the right medication. But what if the real issue is that we’ve misunderstood how hormones, digestion, and recovery actually regulate metabolism in the first place? In this episode of Extend, we sit down with registered dietitian Ashley Koff to unpack what GLP-1 medications are really doing in the body and why bariatric surgery revealed metabolic changes long before significant weight loss ever occurred. We explore incretin hormones, vagus nerve signaling, and why appetite, blood sugar, and inflammation are part of a much larger hormonal ecosystem. We also dive into the often-missed pieces of the GLP-1 conversation, including digestion, detoxification during fat loss, protein quality, and why offboarding plans matter as much as starting doses if you want long-term success without burnout or regain. Ashley Koff is a registered dietitian nutritionist and founder of The Better Nutrition Program. She has over two decades of experience supporting patients in bariatric care, metabolic health, and digestive optimization. She is the author of Your Best Shot, a practical guide to understanding weight health through a systems-based approach. What We Discuss: (00:00) Why Weight Loss Fails When Hormones Are Ignored (05:42) What Bariatric Surgery Revealed About Metabolism (11:18) Incretin Hormones and Why GLP-1 Is Only One Piece (18:06) The Cost of Keeping Metabolic Signals Turned On (26:14) Fatigue on GLP-1s Is Not Just About Calories (34:22) What Happens When Fat Loss Releases Toxins (44:10) Why Coming Off GLP-1s Too Fast Leads to Regain (55:03) The Biggest Nutrition Mistakes During GLP-1 Therapy Thank You to Our Sponsors: Timeline: Go to to get 20% off your order. Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Ashley Koff: Instagram: Website: Book: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39614410

128. Hidden Environmental Toxins Are Destroying Your Health 01/08/2026

128. Hidden Environmental Toxins Are Destroying Your Health How much control do you actually have over the toxins in your daily environment? Most people assume chemical exposure is unavoidable, but the science shows there are practical steps that can significantly reduce your toxic load. In this solo episode, we break down why environmental detoxification is a key strategy for protecting your long-term health and longevity. We walk you through the main sources of exposure, from household cleaners and cookware to synthetic fragrances and clothing materials. We explore how these toxins affect your hormones, immune system, and metabolism, and why resilience, genetics, and consistent habits determine how your body responds over time. We also share simple, actionable swaps and strategies that can be implemented gradually without overwhelming your daily life. This episode gives clear, actionable guidance for anyone who wants to reduce chemical exposure, support metabolic and hormonal health, and create a healthier living environment. Even small, consistent changes over weeks and months can have a major impact on overall wellbeing. What We Discuss: (00:00) Introduction: Why Environmental Toxins Matter for Health (01:50) How Chemicals Affect Hormones, Immunity, and Resilience (05:18) Common Household Sources: Pesticides, Cleaners, Fragrances, and Laundry Products (09:08) Kitchen and Food Storage: Plastics, Cookware, and Safe Alternatives (11:07) Home Environment: Shoes, Air Quality, Mattresses, and Furniture (14:28) Personal Care, Clothing, and Nighttime Exposure (16:27) Gradual Detox Strategies and Free Resources (18:20) Key Takeaways and Closing Thoughts Thank You to Our Sponsors: IM8: Try IM8 today with a 30-day money back guarantee. You can get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at https://im8health.com/discount/DRSHAH. Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39614345

127. Allison Evans: Hidden Household Toxins That Are Making You Sick 01/06/2026

127. Allison Evans: Hidden Household Toxins That Are Making You Sick Toxin exposure rarely announces itself loudly, yet it quietly shapes hormone balance, immune resilience, mood, and neurological health long before a diagnosis appears. The real tension lies in the fact that these exposures are largely invisible, normalized, and happening inside the very spaces meant to keep us safe. We dive deeper into this in the Extend podcast with Allison Evans. We also chat about the “toxic bucket” concept, why synthetic fragrance and harsh disinfectants can act as endocrine disruptors and neurotoxins, how asthma, fertility challenges, and chronic symptoms can be triggered by everyday products, and where to start removing toxic load without fear or overwhelm. Allison Evans is the co-founder of Branch Basics, a household and personal care brand focused on reducing everyday chemical exposure. She is an entrepreneur and health educator with a background in environmental and dietary health. Branch Basics products are sold online and at Target nationwide. Branch Basics: Use code DRSHAH20 at to get 20% off from a selected list of products, including Ultimate Starter Kit, Premium Starter Kit, Cleaning Essentials Kit, Laundry Kit, Gel Hand Soap, Laundry Detergent. The offer is valid for first time buyers only through January 13, 2025. What We Discuss: (03:55) Why Toxin Exposure Is the Invisible Fourth Pillar of Health (05:10) How Everyday Symptoms Act as Early Warning Signals (17:45) The Toxic Bucket and Why Some Bodies Spill Over Faster (23:40) How Synthetic Fragrance Disrupts Hormones, Metabolism, and the Brain (29:50) Why Asthma and Anxiety Can Be Triggered by Household Chemicals (31:30) How Cleaning Products Can Make Indoor Air More Toxic Than Outdoors (38:45) Why Removing Toxins at Home Beats Expensive Biohacking (50:35) Why Laundry Detergent Is a Constant Source of Chemical Exposure (52:45) How Plastic Food Storage Disrupts Hormones and Metabolism (54:05) Why Fear Around Toxins Can Be More Harmful Than the Exposure Thank You for Our Sponsors: IM8: Try IM8 today with a 30-day money back guarantee. You can get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at . Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Allison Evans: Instagram: Website: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39552210

126. How to Fix Your Metabolic Health at Any Age 01/01/2026

125. Best of Mental Health: The Foundation of Brain and Whole Body Health 12/30/2025

125. Best of Mental Health: The Foundation of Brain and Whole Body Health Mental health is shaped by how well the brain produces energy, how well the nervous system remains under stress, and how effectively the mind adapts over time. When these systems begin to break down, problems often appear years before a diagnosis, showing up as anxiety, brain fog, distraction, burnout, or emotional dysregulation that are frequently treated in isolation. This is a special Best Of episode of Extend, where I’ve compiled the most important insights from conversations with leaders examining mental health through neuroscience, metabolism, nervous system regulation, and mental training, including Jay Shetty, Dr. Chris Palmer, Jim Kwik, Maya Raichoora, and Gabby Bernstein. These selected clips highlight why mental health cannot be reduced to brain chemistry alone, how metabolic dysfunction and chronic stress quietly impair brain energy, and why nervous system safety is foundational to healing. You’ll hear how focus and mental fatigue are often physiological, how visualization and mindset influence neural pathways, and why regulation, meaning, and consistency matter more than quick fixes. By pulling together these key moments, this episode reflects the patterns I see repeatedly in practice and across these expert discussions, offering a clearer framework for supporting mental health early, when intervention is most effective and long-term resilience can be built. What We Discuss: Jay Shetty, bestselling author and former monk, explores why mental health begins with inner alignment, how chronic stress is amplified by disconnection from values, and why vulnerability is a skill that deepens emotional resilience rather than a weakness. Dr. Chris Palmer, Harvard-trained psychiatrist and author of Brain Energy, explains why mental illness cannot be separated from metabolic health, how impaired brain energy drives symptoms like anxiety and depression, and why addressing mitochondrial and metabolic dysfunction changes outcomes. Jim Kwik, brain coach and author of Limitless, breaks down why brain fog, distraction, and mental fatigue are not character flaws, how modern habits drain cognitive energy, and what actually restores focus, memory, and mental clarity. Maya Raichoora, mental fitness expert and author of Visualize, explores how visualization rewires neural pathways, why the brain responds to imagined experiences as real, and how mental training can influence both cognitive performance and physical health. Gabby Bernstein, #1 New York Times bestselling author and podcast host, explains why nervous system safety is foundational to mental health, how emotional regulation directly affects inflammation and recovery, and why feeling safe in the body is essential for long-term resilience. Thank You for Our Sponsors: NextHealth: NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at https://www.next-health.com/ Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Jay Shetty: Website: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Chris Palmer: Website: Instagram: Learn more about Jim Kwik: Instagram: Facebook: Twitter: YouTube: Learn more about Maya Raichoora: LinkedIn: Website: Learn more about Gabby Bernstein: Instagram: Website: Book: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39552155

124. Best of Strength Training: Why Strength Determines How You Age 12/25/2025

124. Best of Strength Training: Why Strength Determines How You Age Over the past year on Extend, I’ve had powerful conversations with experts who all kept pointing back to the same foundation: strength training. So in this episode, I’m bringing together a Best Of compilation featuring key moments from Andy Galpin, Vonda Wright, JJ Virgin, Louisa Nicola, and Kelly and Juliet Starrett to highlight why strength matters far beyond the gym. This episode explores strength training from every angle that truly impacts longevity. I break down why muscle is a metabolic engine, how bone health shapes aging decades before problems appear, and how strength and movement directly support brain health and cognitive performance. You’ll also hear why mobility is a daily practice, not a workout add-on, and how small habits outside the gym often determine how strong, capable, and pain-free you stay over time. Across these clips, the message is clear: strength training isn’t about aesthetics or chasing extremes. It’s about building a body and brain that can adapt, recover, and thrive for decades. Whether your goal is longevity, injury prevention, better energy, or aging with confidence, this episode brings together the most important insights to help you train smarter and move better for life. What We Discuss: (00:00) JJ Virgin, nutrition and fitness expert, explains why muscle is the foundation of metabolism, strength, and long-term vitality, and how protein intake and smart training support powerful aging. (00:00) Andy Galpin, human performance scientist, breaks down how personalized training and understanding individual physiology can help you build strength more effectively and recover like a pro athlete. (00:00) Dr. Vonda Wright, orthopedic surgeon and longevity expert, explores how strength training protects bone density, supports hormones, and reduces fracture risk as we age. (00:00) Louisa Nicola, neurophysiologist and performance coach, connects strength and movement to brain health, explaining how exercise supports cognition, reduces inflammation, and protects against neurodegeneration. (00:00) Kelly and Juliet Starrett, movement and mobility experts, share why daily mobility habits matter as much as workouts, and how strength, posture, and movement patterns shape longevity. Thank You for Our Sponsors: Pendulum: You can go to pendulumlife.com and use my code EXTEND for 20% off your first membership order. Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Vonda Wright Website: Instagram: Facebook: Learn more about Andy Galpin: Website: Instagram: Learn more about JJ. Virgin: Website: Instagram: Learn more about Louisa Nicola: Website: Instagram: Learn more about Kelly and Juliet Starrett: Website: Instagram: Instagram: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39493390

123. Best of Metabolic Health: Why Metabolic Health Changes Everything 12/23/2025

123. Best of Metabolic Health: Why Metabolic Health Changes Everything Metabolic health is the foundation that determines how your body produces energy, manages inflammation, regulates hormones, and protects you from chronic disease. When it breaks down, problems show up years later, long after the real warning signs were missed. This is a special Best Of episode of Extend, where I’ve compiled the most important insights from conversations with leaders in metabolic health and longevity, including Cynthia Thurlow, Ben Azadi, Dr. Mark Hyman, Casey Means, Josh Clemente, and Karan Rajan. These selected clips highlight why waiting for diabetes is far too late, how insulin resistance can quietly develop over years, and which biomarkers reveal metabolic dysfunction long before symptoms appear. You’ll hear how glucose and insulin regulation influence gut health, inflammation, muscle mass, hormone balance, and brain and skin health. By pulling together these key moments, this episode reflects the patterns I see every day in clinic and across these expert discussions, offering a clearer framework for protecting metabolic health early, when intervention has the greatest impact. What's Discussed: Cynthia Thurlow, nurse practitioner and metabolic health expert, explains why waiting for diabetes is far too late, how insulin resistance develops years before diagnosis, and which early biomarkers reveal true metabolic risk. Ben Azadi, metabolic health educator and author, breaks down why type 2 diabetes is preventable and reversible, how insulin resistance can exist for over a decade without abnormal blood sugar, and why fasting insulin is one of the most important labs to track. Dr. Mark Hyman, functional medicine physician and longevity leader, explores why insulin is rarely tested, how muscle loss accelerates metabolic decline, and why chronic disease shares common metabolic roots. Casey Means, physician and metabolic health advocate, connects metabolic dysfunction to modern lifestyle stressors, explains the core markers of metabolic syndrome, and shares why fewer than 7 percent of Americans meet optimal metabolic criteria. Josh Clemente, health technology innovator, discusses why continuous glucose monitoring offers real-time insight into metabolic health and how glucose regulation shapes long-term disease risk. Karan Rajan, surgeon and gut health educator, explains how the gut microbiome influences systemic inflammation, insulin sensitivity, skin health, and metabolic stability across the entire body. Thank You for Our Sponsors: IM8: Try IM8 today with a 30-day money back guarantee. You can get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Karan Rajan: Instagram: Website: Learn more about Josh Clemente: Instagram: Website: Learn more about Dr. Mark Hyman: Instagram: Website: Learn more about Casey Means: Instagram: Website: Learn more about Cynthia Thurlow: Instagram: Website: Learn more about Ben Azadi: Instagram: Website: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39493355

122. Dr. Mayim Bialik on Stress, Mental Health, and Human Connection 12/18/2025

122. Dr. Mayim Bialik on Stress, Mental Health, and Human Connection What if the stress you feel every day is not a personal failure, but a biological response to how modern life pulls at your nervous system? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Mayim Bialik to explore why so many people feel overwhelmed, distracted, and disconnected, even when they are doing everything they were told should make them happy. We talk about how stress lives in the body, how technology quietly rewires attention and dopamine, and why mental health cannot be separated from gut health, lifestyle, and human connection. Mayim shares her path from child actor to neuroscientist, how science and spirituality meet in real life, and why resilience is built through daily practices, not quick fixes. We also unpack trauma, attention, parenting in a digital world, and why learning to regulate your nervous system may matter more than any single intervention. This conversation is an invitation to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and remember that healing does not start with perfection. It starts with awareness. Dr. Mayim Bialik is a neuroscientist, actor, author, and mental health advocate. She holds a PhD in neuroscience from UCLA and is widely known for her role on The Big Bang Theory. Through her podcast and public work, she focuses on mental health, stress, spirituality, and making science accessible and human-centered. What’s Discussed: (00:00) Why Modern Stress Feels Different Today (06:12) How the Nervous System Responds to Daily Overload (12:45) Technology, Dopamine, and Attention Drift (18:30) The Hidden Biology Behind Feeling “Burned Out” (26:04) Gut Health and Mental Health: What We Now Understand (33:29) Trauma, Identity, and the Stories We Carry (41:52) Parenting, Boundaries, and Emotional Regulation (50:11) Building Real Resilience in a Distracted World Thank You for Our Sponsors: IM8: Try IM8 today with a 30-day money back guarantee. You can get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at . Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/drshah and use gift code DRSHAH25 for a $25 credit toward your membership. Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Mayim Bialik: Podcast: Instagram: Substack: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39408405

121. How to Protect Your Brain at Every Age 12/16/2025

120. Jess Kane: Your Cells Are Leaking, Here’s How to Fix Them 12/11/2025

120. Jess Kane: Your Cells Are Leaking, Here’s How to Fix Them Have you ever wondered why you can be “doing everything right” with your health and still feel inflamed, foggy, or depleted? The more I study longevity, the more I am convinced this has less to do with the latest hack and more to do with something very basic that we almost never talk about: the integrity of the cell membrane. Every process in the human body begins at the level of the cell membrane, and in today’s world, that membrane is under constant attack from toxins, infections, chemicals, and everyday stressors. In this episode of Extend, I sit down with Jess Kane to explore why phosphatidylcholine (PC) may be the most critical nutrient we’re not talking about, how modern exposures create “leaky cells,” and why nearly all of us are now deficient in the lipids required to keep our DNA, mitochondria, and metabolic pathways safe. We break down the original PK Protocol, the role of PC in detoxification and brain health, and the steps anyone can take to rebuild membrane resilience and restore energy at the cellular level. Jess Kane is the Chief Marketing Officer and third-generation co-owner of BodyBio, a family-led company pioneering science-backed solutions for cellular health, mitochondrial support, and anti-toxin resilience. She blends strategic insight with deep biochemical knowledge, helping BodyBio earn the trust of more than 35,000 healthcare practitioners worldwide. Jess is dedicated to educating the public on foundational lipids like phosphatidylcholine and the critical role they play in modern health. What’s Discussed: (00:00) The “Bubble” Shield: How Your Cell Membrane Actually Works (03:31) Leaky Cells: Toxins, Viruses, and the New Epidemic of Cellular Damage (04:40) Fats That Build (or Break) Your Cell Membrane (11:19) “Our Lipids Are Under Attack”: Low-Fat Diets, Modern Toxins, and Metabolic Chaos (15:42) Detox, Rebuild, Repeat: Using PC, TUDCA & Glutathione to Repair from the Inside Out (27:49) Brain Fog, Acetylcholine, and Why PC Is a Hidden Brain Nutrient (33:35) Skin, Aging, and What Healthy Cells Actually Look Like (37:23) Seed Oils, Oxidized Fats, and How to Swap In the Right Lipids Thank You for Our Sponsors: NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Jess Kane: Blog: TikTok: X: Instagram: Instagram: TikTok: Facebook: Website: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39312720

119. Dr. Rocio Salas Whalen: How To Lose Weight On GLP-1s Without Losing Muscle 12/09/2025

119. Dr. Rocio Salas Whalen: How To Lose Weight On GLP-1s Without Losing Muscle Most people still think GLP-1s are “weight loss shots,” but what we are really doing is changing biology at the level of appetite and inflammation, with ripple effects across future generations. In this conversation, I sit down with endocrinologist and obesity specialist Dr. Rocio Salas Whalen to unpack what these medications do inside the body and how to use them responsibly as part of a long-term health strategy. We get into why “eat less, exercise more” failed so many patients, how family history, hormones, and aging drive obesity, and why GLP-1s must be paired with protein and strength training. We also explore GLP-1’s impact on visceral fat, diabetes, brain health, what healthy weight loss looks like on a body composition scan, and how to avoid sarcopenia and the so-called “Ozempic face.” Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen is a board-certified endocrinologist and obesity-medicine specialist, author of Weightless, and an early adopter of GLP-1 therapies. Her so-called “GPS framework”, GLP-1, protein, and strength training, reflects her approach to evidence-based obesity care. What's Discussed: (00:00) GLP-1s and Weight Loss (12:45) The Impact of GLP-1 Hormone (25:29) Muscle Mass and GLP-1 Importance (31:46) Optimizing Protein Intake on GLP-1 (43:24) GLP-1 Dosing and Gut Health (48:20) Mental Health Implications of Weight Loss (57:16) Weightless Book Pre-Order Announcement Thank You for Our Sponsors: IM8: Try IM8 today with a 30-day money back guarantee. You can get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at . Function Health: Own your health for $365 a year. That’s a dollar a day. Learn more and join using my link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/drshah and use gift code DRSHAH25 for a $25 credit toward your membership. Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Rocio Salas Whalen: Website: IG: Threads: Book: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39312705

118. Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum: A New Roadmap to Female Heart Health 12/04/2025

118. Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum: A New Roadmap to Female Heart Health Most people think heart disease is obvious and predictable, yet women often present with completely different warning signs that traditional testing fails to catch. We now have the tools to identify risk decades earlier and reverse disease before it becomes dangerous. In this episode of Extend, we sit down with Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum, cardiologist and leading voice in women’s cardiovascular prevention, to uncover why standard testing misses female heart disease, how microvascular dysfunction develops long before blockages appear, and why expanded markers like ApoB and HSCRP should replace outdated cholesterol panels. We break down the role of CLEERLY scans, the power of CPET for detecting endothelial dysfunction, and the exact metabolic shifts that happen during perimenopause and menopause. We also explore how zone two training restores endothelial health, why soft plaque is more dangerous than calcified plaque, and how personalized exercise prescriptions can reverse early disease at any age. Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum is a pioneering preventive cardiologist, founder of the ADESSO model for women’s heart health, and a national leader in microvascular research whose work is redefining how we diagnose, prevent, and reverse cardiovascular disease in women. What’s Discussed: (04:15) Why women experience heart disease through microvascular dysfunction rather than classic blockages (07:50) How outdated cholesterol panels miss early cardiovascular risk in women (12:40) Why ApoB, HSCRP, and metabolic markers reveal the real drivers of plaque (17:05) How CLEERLY scans detect dangerous soft plaque that calcium scores miss (22:30) Why standard angiograms often look normal in women despite real disease (27:55) How CPET testing uncovers endothelial dysfunction and identifies true zone two (33:20) How zone two exercise restores arterial flexibility and reverses early disease (39:45) Why perimenopause, stress, sleep, and pregnancy history raise cardiovascular risk and demand personalized prevention Thank You for Our Sponsors: Timeline: 20% off your order. Go to timeline.com/drshah. That’s . Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum: Website : Instagram: X: Linkedin: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39218890

117. Dr. Steven Gundry: The Microbiome War Shaping Your Mind 12/02/2025

117. Dr. Steven Gundry: The Microbiome War Shaping Your Mind Most people think about the gut as a digestive system, yet emerging research shows it functions more like a command center shaping immunity, metabolism, mood, and even coronary artery calcification. The surprising twist is that your gut may be influencing your brain more than your brain influences your gut. In this episode of Extend, we sit down with Dr. Steven Gundry, cardiac surgeon and world leading expert on the microbiome, to uncover how gut bacteria communicate with your mitochondria and brain, why leaky gut silently drives inflammation throughout the entire body, and how keystone species like Akkermansia help rebuild the gut barrier. We break down the role of vitamin D in activating gut stem cells, the impact of glyphosate on serotonin producing bacteria, and why pasteurized or even dead bacteria can modulate the ecosystem just as powerfully as live strains. We also explore how gut derived signals from short chain fatty acids, gasotransmitters, and microbial messenger RNA shape mood, cognition, vascular health, and long term aging trajectories. Dr. Steven Gundry is a renowned heart surgeon, bestselling author, and pioneering researcher in microbiome science whose work has transformed our understanding of gut driven inflammation, autoimmune disease, and the gut brain axis. What’s Discussed: (04:10) Why the gut acts as the body’s first brain (07:45) How good and bad microbes compete for control of your cravings and mood (12:30) Why Akkermansia and other keystone species determine gut wall integrity (16:55) How dead and pasteurized bacteria still shape the microbiome (21:20) The link between leaky gut, coronary calcification, and systemic inflammation (27:40) How vitamin D activates gut stem cells to repair the intestinal barrier (32:15) How microbial gasotransmitters, short chain fatty acids, and mRNA communicate with the brain (38:50) Why glyphosate disrupts serotonin producing bacteria and impacts mental health Thank You for Our Sponsors: IM8: Try IM8 today with a 30-day money back guarantee. You can get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at . Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr.Steven Gundry: Website : Instagram: Threads: X: Linkedin: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39218870

116. Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson: The New Essential Fatty Acid 11/27/2025

116. Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson: The New Essential Fatty Acid Most people hear “saturated fat” and think of something harmful, yet emerging research reveals that one specific fatty acid supports stronger cell membranes, healthier metabolic function, and better long-term resilience. C15 plays a unique role in the biology of aging and may help explain why certain populations experience longer, healthier lives. In this episode of Extend, we sit down with Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson, veterinary epidemiologist and co-founder of Fatty15, to uncover how Navy dolphin research led to the discovery of C15 as the first essential fatty acid identified in nearly a century. We unpack why odd chain fats behave differently than traditional dietary fats, how C15 stabilizes cellular aging pathways, and why declining levels in the modern diet may be contributing to metabolic and cognitive decline. We also explore how C15’s effects on ferroptosis, inflammation, liver markers, and mitochondrial efficiency offer a new way to support healthspan at the cellular level. Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson is a leading veterinary epidemiologist whose groundbreaking research on marine mammals revealed the essential role of C15 in aging, metabolism, and cellular integrity, ultimately leading to the development of the concentrated and clinically studied Fatty15 formulation. What’s Discussed: (07:20) How Navy dolphin research led to the discovery of C15 (11:45) Why C15 functions differently from traditional saturated fats (15:10) The link between C15, cell membrane stability, and aging (19:40) How declining C15 levels influence metabolic and inflammatory markers (24:00) The science of ferroptosis and why it accelerates aging (28:30) How C15 interacts with AMPK, PPAR, mTOR, and mitochondrial pathways (33:10) The challenge of getting enough C15 through modern diets (38:25) How Fatty15 provides a bioavailable source of this essential fatty acid Thank You for Our Sponsors: Nexthealth: NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson: Website : Instagram: X: Facebook: Linkedin: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39138850

115. Dr. Shivani Gupta: Heal Inflammation Through Ayurvedic Science 11/25/2025

115. Dr. Shivani Gupta: Heal Inflammation Through Ayurvedic Science Most of us think inflammation is something we can fix with supplements, lab tests, or the latest diet trend. But what if the real solution comes from ancient wisdom that modern science is finally catching up to? In this episode of Extend, we sit down with Dr. Shivani Gupta, Ayurvedic practitioner, author, and founder of Fusionary Formulas, to explore how Ayurveda bridges timeless principles with modern longevity science. We break down how your dosha or “elemental design” shapes digestion, energy, and stress, and why aligning your daily rhythm with your biology can lower inflammation and optimize performance. We also explore the science behind Ayurvedic rituals that calm inflammation from the inside out, from cooking with healing spices like turmeric and ginger to grounding, tongue scraping, and creating simple routines that support recovery and resilience. Dr. Shivani Gupta is an Ayurvedic expert and founder of Fusionary Formulas, a modern supplement line combining ancient herbal medicine with clinical research. Her upcoming book, The Inflammation Code, reveals how to decode inflammation through food, lifestyle, and ritual to live longer and stronger. What’s Discussed: (06:15) The hidden link between chronic inflammation and modern lifestyle (10:40) How Ayurveda defines balance through the three doshas (14:20) Understanding your “elemental design” and what it means for digestion, stress, and sleep (18:45) Why syncing your habits with circadian rhythm lowers inflammation (23:10) The science behind turmeric, ginger, and other Ayurvedic anti-inflammatories (28:00) Rituals that regulate your nervous system and calm “mental inflammation” (33:25) How to integrate grounding, tongue scraping, and oil pulling into your daily routine (38:00) Ayurvedic detox principles for modern longevity (43:10) Common myths about Ayurveda and how to apply it practically (47:30) Dr. Gupta’s top daily habits for inflammation-free living Thank You for Our Sponsors: IM8: Try IM8 today with a 30-day money back guarantee. You can get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at . Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Shivani Gupta : Website : Instagram: Linkedin: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39138845

114. Julia Putzeys: The App That Decodes Your Food Lies 11/20/2025

114. Julia Putzeys: The App That Decodes Your Food Lies Most of us grew up thinking anything sold at the grocery store was safe to eat. But behind every “heart healthy,” “high protein,” or “low fat” label lies a different truth one built on ultra-processed ingredients, chemical additives, and marketing tricks. In this episode of Extend, we sit down with Julia Putzeys, founder of the Trash Panda App, to uncover what’s really in our food and how to make smarter choices that protect our long-term health. We break down what defines an ultra-processed food, why seed oils, food dyes, and artificial sweeteners disrupt metabolism and gut health, and how ingredient literacy can literally change your biology. We also explore how small, consistent choices like swapping one product at a time can help you shift from calorie counting to nutrient density and teach your kids the same. Julia Putzeys is a software developer turned nutritionist and creator of Trash Panda, the viral app helping millions of people decode food labels, identify hidden additives, and choose real, whole ingredients. What’s Discussed: (09:00) How Ultra-Processed Foods Impact Longevity and Chronic Disease (12:30) The Psychology and Science Behind Food Addiction (20:00) Why “Low-Fat” and “Sugar-Free” Often Mean More Toxic (29:50) The Real Problem With Seed Oils and Food Dyes (18:00) How to Retrain Your Taste Buds and Microbiome (32:00) Practical Swaps for Clean, Nutrient-Dense Eating Thank You for Our Sponsors: Timeline: 20% off your order. Go to timeline.com/drshah. That’s timeline.com/drshah. Function Health: Learn more and join using functionhealth.com/drshah. The first 1000 get a $100 credit toward their membership. Visit www.functionhealth.com/drshah or use gift code DRSHAH100 at sign-up to own your health. Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Julia Putzeys : Linkedin: X: You Tube: TikTok: Download the Trash Panda App on iOS or Android: Trash Panda on Instagram: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39020865

113. Dr. Karan Rajan: Why Gut Health Shapes Your Longevity 11/18/2025

113. Dr. Karan Rajan: Why Gut Health Shapes Your Longevity You can eat healthy, exercise daily, and still struggle with fatigue, inflammation, or brain fog. Why? Because every system in your body is connected. The gut, brain, and immune system are constantly communicating, and most health plans ignore that network. In this episode of Extend, I sit down with Dr. Karan Rajan to explore how the gut microbiome shapes everything from digestion and immunity to mood, skin, and longevity. We unpack the science behind leaky gut, fiber diversity, fermented foods, and the connection between microbiome imbalance and chronic inflammation. We also dive into practical steps such as how to feed all three layers of your colon, the right way to use fiber supplements, the truth about probiotics, and how daily habits like sleep timing, stress, and even phone use in the bathroom affect gut health. Dr. Karan Rajan is a surgeon, educator, and gut health expert with more than five million followers across social media. His research in microbiome science and human health has made him one of the most trusted voices translating complex medicine into actionable steps for modern life. What’s Discussed: (00:00) From Surgery to the Science of the Microbiome (05:18) How Fiber Diversity Fuels a Healthy Gut (12:14) The Link Between Leaky Gut, Skin, and Inflammation (19:49) What Destroys the Microbiome and How to Rebuild It (27:56) Poop, Circadian Rhythms, and Real Gut Health Markers (40:13) Fiber Supplements, Fermented Foods, and Smart Probiotics (54:05) Inside the Future of Gut Health and the Loam Project Thank You to Our Sponsors: IM8: Try IM8 today with a 30-day money back guarantee. You can get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at . Pendulum: Go to and use code EXTEND at checkout for 20% off all Pendulum membership first orders. Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Karan Rajan: Instagram: YouTube: Linkedin: LOAM: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/39020795

112. Josh Clemente: Why Energy Crashes Keep Happening and How to Stop Them 11/13/2025

112. Josh Clemente: Why Energy Crashes Keep Happening and How to Stop Them What if the future of medicine isn’t about diagnosing disease, but preventing it entirely? For decades, our healthcare system has only reacted once things go wrong. We measure when there are symptoms. We intervene when there is a crisis. But what if we could see the shift before it becomes an illness? In this episode of EXTEND, I’m joined by Josh Clemente, founder of Levels and former SpaceX engineer, to explore how continuous health monitoring is about to change human health at scale. Josh shares how engineering principles—not traditional medicine—first revealed the hidden metabolic patterns that were draining his energy, affecting his cognition, and pushing him toward disease long before any lab test reflected it. We discuss why continuous glucose monitoring is only the first step in this revolution, how data empowers individuals instead of the healthcare system, and why the next era of health will be defined by observability—real-time insight that lets you adjust, course-correct, and optimize your biology every single day. Josh Clemente is the co-founder of Levels, a metabolic health platform bringing continuous glucose monitoring and real-time lifestyle coaching to the mainstream. Previously, he led life support systems engineering at SpaceX, where he developed safety technology for astronauts aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft. What's Discussed: (00:00) Why You Should Own Your Health Data — Not Your Doctor (05:50) The Tech That’s About to Replace Annual Checkups (17:47) The Medical System Won’t Fix Chronic Disease — You Will (26:02) AI + Biology: The Turning Point We’ve Been Waiting For (35:15) Learning to “Read” Your Body in Real Time (45:54) How Small Daily Inputs Create (or Reverse) Disease (57:05) What’s Coming Next in Wearable Health Tech (01:06:57) Continuous Monitoring: The Future of Metabolic Health (01:13:57) Metabolic Health = Energy. And Energy = Life. (01:27:11) Final Takeaways: Empowerment, Data, and Ownership Thank You for Our Sponsors: NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Josh Clemente: Instagram: Instagram: Website: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/38976780

111. Dr. Amir Vookshoor: Neurosurgeon Secrets For Bulletproof Brain Health 11/11/2025

110. Dr. Josh Axe: The Hidden Connection Between Faith, Emotion, and Aging 11/06/2025

110. Dr. Josh Axe: The Hidden Connection Between Faith, Emotion, and Aging What if the key to living longer and feeling younger has been hidden in ancient medicine all along? Long before supplements, peptides, or wearables, healing was about restoring balance through food, movement, belief, and nature. Today, those same principles are being shown by modern science to protect your cells, extend your healthspan, and reverse root causes of disease. In this episode of EXTEND, I’m joined by Dr. Josh Axe and we explore how ancient healing systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine intersect with today’s most advanced longevity research. We dive into the biology of faith and mindset, how chronic stress and emotion impact gene expression, and the connection between gut health, inflammation, and aging. We also discuss how to bridge natural and modern medicine, the surprising role of peptides and stem cells in regeneration, and why true longevity begins with the everyday habits you practice, not just the protocols you chase. Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CNS, is a doctor of chiropractic and natural medicine, a clinical nutritionist, and the co-founder of Ancient Nutrition. He is also the host of the podcast and the bestselling author of Ancient Remedies and The Biblical Diet. We Also Discuss: (00:04) Traditional vs. Western medicine and where real healing happens (08:51) Ancient nutrition and the science of longevity (14:31) The emotional biology of healing in Eastern medicine (25:55) Biblical health codes and the roots of longevity (38:06) Mold toxicity, early signs, triggers, and recovery (52:26) Illness, purpose, and the path to healing (01:12:38) Regenerative therapies using peptides and stem cells (01:27:59) The future of wellness through ancient wisdom and modern science Thank You to Our Sponsors: Timeline: Go to to get 20% off your order. Function Health: Learn more and join using functionhealth.com/drshah. The first 1000 get a $100 credit toward their membership. Visit www.functionhealth.com/drshah or use gift code DRSHAH100 at sign-up to own your health. Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Josh Axe: Website: Instagram: YouTube: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/38890315

109. Dr. Gladys McGarey: What 103 Years of Life Can Teach Us About Longevity 11/04/2025

109. Dr. Gladys McGarey: What 103 Years of Life Can Teach Us About Longevity What if the real secret to longevity isn’t found in science alone, but in how we choose to live, love, and connect every day? In this special posthumous episode of EXTEND, I revisit one of the most meaningful conversations I’ve ever had — with Dr. Gladys McGarey, the 103-year-old physician known as the Mother of Holistic Medicine and author of The Well-Lived Life. Before her passing, Dr. McGarey shared a century’s worth of wisdom on what truly heals us, from the inside out. We talk about how she helped create the holistic medicine movement, the deeper meaning behind her “Five L’s” — love, life, laughter, labor, and listening — and how energy, purpose, and community shape both health and happiness. She also shares powerful stories from her early life in India, her encounter with Gandhi, and how compassion became the foundation of her medical practice. Dr. Gladys McGarey reminds us that medicine isn’t just about curing disease — it’s about nurturing the human spirit, and remembering that love itself is one of the most powerful healing forces we have. We Also Discuss: (00:00) A Century of Healing: The Life and Legacy of Dr. Gladys McGarey (09:45) Growing Up in India and Meeting Gandhi (20:23) How Holistic Medicine Was Born, and Why It Still Matters (25:32) The Physician Within: What True Healing Really Means (27:20) Energy, Purpose, and the Secret to Staying “Alive” at Any Age (33:55) Turning Setbacks into Teachers: Finding Growth in Pain (37:46) Why Community Is the Medicine We’re Missing (43:54) The Vision for a Healing Village, Where Love and Life Lead Medicine Thank You to Our Sponsor: IM8: Try IM8 today with a 30-day money back guarantee. You can get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Gladys McGarey: Website:Instagram: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/38890290

108. Dr. Vonda Wright: Why Women Need a New Approach to Aging, and How to Start Now 10/30/2025

107. Dr. Will Cole: Gut Issues and Anxiety? Functional Medicine Is Finally Connecting the Dots 10/28/2025

107. Dr. Will Cole: Gut Issues and Anxiety? Functional Medicine Is Finally Connecting the Dots You can eat clean, track your labs, take supplements, and still feel anxious, inflamed, tired, or flat. Why? Because the gut, brain, immune system, and hormones are in constant conversation, and most of us are only treating one side of that story. In this episode of Extend, I sit down with Dr. Will Cole to uncover the science behind the gut-brain axis, and why nervous system dysregulation might be the reason your biomarkers won’t budge. We unpack how microbiome imbalances, silent inflammation, low vagal tone, and stored trauma show up as anxiety, constipation, brain fog, and burnout… even when you’re “doing everything right.” We also get practical: testing beyond standard blood work, HRV as a window into resilience, breathwork vs. meditation, EMDR, “ugly journaling,” and when devices like Apollo Neuro and Sensate actually help. Dr. Will Cole is a leading functional medicine expert, a pioneer in gut-brain health, neuroimmune disorders, and autoimmune healing. He is also the host of the top-ranked podcast The Art of Being Well and the New York Times bestselling author of books including Gut Feelings, The Inflammation Spectrum, and Ketotarian. What's Discussed: (00:00) From Functional Medicine to the Gut-Brain Revolution (13:14) How Trauma, Serotonin, and the Vagus Nerve Shape the Mind-Gut Connection (21:13) Healing the Nervous System: Journaling, EMDR, and Wearable Vagus Nerve Tech (30:15) Why Real Health Change Starts with Individuals, Not Institutions (35:07) Food Deserts, Misinformation, and Taking Your Health Back (43:04) Regenerative Supplements, Soil Health & The Future of Functional Medicine Thank You for Our Sponsors: IM8: Try IM8 today with a 30-day money back guarantee. You can get 10% off your first order with code DRSHAH at . Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit Learn more about Dr. Shah: Website: Clinic: Instagram: Learn more about Dr. Will Cole: Instagram: Instagram: Youtube: /episode/index/show/03add746-5496-41d9-bcc9-511a526491e9/id/38723560

106. Siggi Clavien: Why Your Liver is Slowly Killing You (And You Don't Even Know It) 10/23/2025

Extend Podcast with Darshan Shah, MD

TOPICS