ENCORE: Rethinking SNAP: Enhancing Nutrition and Access, Part 2

Leyla Muedin, a registered dietitian nutritionist, discusses the gastrointestinal (GI) side effects commonly experienced by patients using GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Rybelsus. Leyla introduces a nutraceutical called Digexin, created by N-X-T-U-S-A, which has shown promise in mitigating these side effects and improving overall well-being. The episode highlights the need for patients to prioritize animal protein intake and incorporate strength training to maintain muscle mass, especially when taking GLP-1 medications. Leyla emphasizes the importance of developing healthy habits and lifestyle changes to sustain weight loss after discontinuing these drugs.

INFINITY Study on the timing of thyroid medication ingestionI have a growth near my eye that is changing in color and becoming crusty. What should I do?I've been suffering from hip pain for the last three years. Any suggestions on what to do?Could toxic exposures like mold cause conditions like low thyroid or autoimmunity?

With a calcium score of zero, is there any fat in your diet?  Are there any recommended supplements for IBS?What is the safest and most appropriate dose of vitamin D3 for most seniors?

Reforming SNAP. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—formerly known as food stamps—is designed to address nutritional gaps for economically disadvantaged Americans. But critics argue that SNAP’s lack of selectivity when it comes to ultra-processed foods stokes the current epidemic of obesity and metabolic disorders. Nutritionist Carolina Schneider, MS, RD, joins us to discuss an opportunity to reform SNAP. She makes the case for emphasizing fresh, minimally processed food as eligible for purchase under SNAP. Also, she urges inclusion of vitamin D under SNAP benefits because of the pervasiveness of vitamin D deficiency, especially among SNAP recipients. Check out a hub for citizen activism at www.All4VitaminD.org. In Part 2, we shift to consideration of plant-based diets: What are their advantages, and what are potential pitfalls? 

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Carolina Schneider, MS, RD.

Many challenging medical conditions defy treatment and challenge clinicians to come up with innovative solutions—Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, fibromyalgia, Lyme Disease, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and autoimmune conditions; add now the growing burden of patients with Long Covid and vaccine injury. Dr. Tania Dempsey specializes in treating these complicated chronic disorders. She has embraced and advanced a new paradigm based on addressing Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). What is MCAS? How is it differentiated from ordinary allergies, and why are its symptoms so pervasive? What are its causes and triggers? What role for low-histamine diets? Antihistamines? Other novel medications? What nutritional supplements can facilitate its resolution? How does recognition of the contribution of MCAS facilitate treatment of patients suffering from Long Covid and vaccine injuries?

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Tania Dempsey.

“Food is Medicine” initiative urged—but progress is slow; Thymic peptide for cancer; What is “orthomolecular psychiatry”? Magnesium threonate for tinnitus; How screen time and social media are dumbing down our kids; The craving for alcohol may be programmed from our primate origins. 

New options for knee pain—radiation and embolization; Popeye was right to power-up with spinach; Conquering inflammation; Methane-predominant SIBO; Unnecessary back surgery on seniors is rampant; Medicare Advantage patients often relegated to inferior cancer surgery. 

Hydration Myths & Facts: Why Drinking Ice Water May Not Be Ideal. Nutritionist Leyla Muedin delves into the often-overlooked aspects of hydration, particularly focusing on the potential drawbacks of drinking ice-cold water. She explains the effects of excessively cold water on digestion and overall health, citing insights from experts like Dr. Harry Emrich. Leyla highlights why traditional practices and scientific evidence suggest that cool rather than cold water is more beneficial, especially during warm weather. Additionally, the episode offers practical advice on maintaining hydration through alternative methods, such as consuming water-rich fruits and vegetables, and the potential hazards of certain beverages like hot caffeinated drinks and alcohol during heat waves.