Episode 453: All About Inflammation

This episode takes a deep dive into the complex world of inflammation—how it shows up in the body, its essential role in immune response and healing, and what happens when it becomes chronic. Listeners will gain insight into the signs of systemic inflammation, including joint pain, brain fog, skin issues, and digestive symptoms, along with a breakdown of how inflammation can become a driver of chronic disease when left unchecked. We also examine the risks associated with common over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like NSAIDs, including their impact on gut integrity and long-term health outcomes. The episode offers evidence-based alternatives for pain and inflammation, including food-as-medicine strategies, targeted supplementation (like omega-3s, curcumin, and boswellia), and lifestyle practices that promote healing and regulate immune function without unwanted side effects. Also in this episode: Preorder Naturally Nourished Kids  What is inflammation? Cellular shifts and the inflammatory cascade Primary inflammatory chemicals Testing markers of inflammation hs-CRP CRP ESR Concerns with antiinflammatory medications Steroids and their side effects Top antiinflammatory supplements Super Turmeric Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin/turmeric supplementation in adults: A GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose–response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials EPA DHA Extra Cellular Antiox Anti Inflammatory Bundle Proteolytic Enzymes Inflammazyme What to eliminate to reduce inflammation MRT Test The Best Food Sensitivity Test [Everly, Pinner or MRT]  Food as medicine support Fatty Fish Berries Olive Oil Turmeric Lemon Turmeric Shooter Avocados   Sponsors for this episode:  This episode is sponsored by Wild Foods, a company that puts quality, sustainability, and health first in all of their products. They have everything from coffee to turmeric to medicinal mushrooms, and every single product is painstakingly sourced from small farms around the globe. They take their mission seriously to fix the broken food system, and believe real food is medicine. They've partnered with us to give you guys an exclusive discount, so use the code ALIMILLERRD for 12% off your order at WildFoods.co! 

Join Ali and her daughter Stella in this light episode on Healthy Eating for Tweens. Nine year old Stella shares how to build a balanced lunch, the importance of blood sugar balance, how a sugar crash feels and why you want to avoid it, her favorite foods, what she wants to be when she grows up and so much more!  In this episode, Ali and Stella talk about the world of whole real foods and how to navigate this approach to eating in the real world. Stella shares her perspective on eating differently than peers and some a-ha experiences she’s had with her nutrition. Learn about combining carbs for blood sugar balance, how to manage anxiety and find calm in your body, why being healthy matters, Disney hacks, and even enjoy some light hearted convos on what Stella would wish for if she had 3 wishes from a genie.  Ali and Stella celebrate the release of Naturally Nourished Kids this coming fall! Stella shares the recipes she’s most looking forward to: Strawberry Collagen Lemonade Bacon Cheddar Egg Bites Cool Kabobs Superfood Chicken Nuggets Citrus Salad with Sprouts Paleo Chicken Tenders with Turmeric Honey Mustard Dipping sauce  Blueberry Muffins Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Muffins   Naturally Nourished Kids Presale is live! Grab your copy here  Other references in this episode: Seedoil-free BBQ in Hill Country Texas Sponsors for this episode:  This episode is sponsored by FOND Bone Broth, your sous chef in a jar. FOND’s bone broths and tallows are produced in small batches with premium ingredients from verified regenerative ranches. Their ingredients are synergistically paired for maximum absorption, nutritional benefit, and flavor. Use code ALIMILLERRD to save at https://fondbonebroth.com/ALIMILLERRD. 

Anemia is one of the most overlooked yet impactful conditions affecting energy, mood, cognition, and hormone balance. In this episode, we unpack the many root causes of anemia beyond just low iron—including micronutrient deficiencies, MTHFR mutations, lack of intrinsic factor, and the impacts of vegetarian or low-protein diets. We explore the difference between microcytic and macrocytic anemia and how to interpret key markers on an iron panel, including ferritin, transferrin saturation, and total iron-binding capacity. You'll also learn about the important connections between thyroid function and iron status, the role of hormones like estrogen and cortisol, and how symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, or irregular cycles may trace back to suboptimal iron levels. Whether you're dealing with diagnosed anemia or suspect you’re trending low, this episode will help you understand how to restore balance from a functional, root-cause perspective. Also in this episode: What is anemia? Why does anemia occur? Risk factors for anemia Symptoms of anemia Assessment for anemia CBC Ferritin Serum Iron TIBC % saturation Transferrin Other lab considerations Serum B12 Serum Folate MMA Homocysteine Stool Occult Blood (GI Map Includes)  Ferritin and thyroid function Food as Medicine for iron repletion Noble Origins Organ Complex use code ALIMILLERD Liver Pills Force of Nature Ancestral Blends use code ALIMILLERRD Foods to watch out for when low in iron Supplementation MultiAvail Mama Multidefense with Iron Hemagenics MethylComplete Root cause approaches to anemia Gut Health GI Map Digestaid GI Lining Support Inflammation EPA DHA Extra Super Turmeric Cellular Antiox Heavy Metals Cellular Antiox Detox Packs Naturally Nourished Episode 426 Why You Need to Detox and How!  E3 Live Overtraining, chronic dieting and protein restriction   Sponsors for this episode:  This episode is sponsored by Wild Foods, a company that puts quality, sustainability, and health first in all of their products. They have everything from coffee to turmeric to medicinal mushrooms, and every single product is painstakingly sourced from small farms around the globe. They take their mission seriously to fix the broken food system, and believe real food is medicine. They've partnered with us to give you guys an exclusive discount, so use the code ALIMILLERRD for 12% off your order at WildFoods.co! 

How much thought have you given to the importance of a good chew? While this may sound like a random topic, the simple act of chewing—and making sure the diet includes tough and crunchy foods—has a profound impact on our health. From digestion and metabolism to oral health, facial development, and even the way we breathe, chewing plays a foundational role. In this episode, we explore how modern diets of ultra-processed, soft foods have contributed to metabolic dysfunction, altered jaw structure, and impaired breathing patterns that can disrupt sleep and brain function. We also dive into the surprising neurological benefits of chewing, including its role in satiety, memory, and mental health. Chewing activates the vagus nerve and stimulates the release of cholecystokinin, a hormone that supports memory, learning, and appetite regulation. It also reduces stress responses, boosting activity in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Research even suggests that soft diets can decrease synaptic density and hippocampal cell count—key factors in cognitive performance. This episode will have you reaching for raw carrots, slow-roasted stew meat, and other chewy, nutrient-dense foods while rethinking how each meal you serve your family can support both body and brain through the power of a good chew. Also in this episode:  Preorder Naturally Nourished Kids  Episode 370 Biological Dentistry with Dr. Joan Sefcik How the jaw works and how it has evolved The Jaw Epidemic: Recognition, Origins, Cures, and Prevention Cognitive development and jaw function Occlusion and brain function: mastication as a prevention of cognitive dysfunction  Foods to provide for kids  Nutrient absorption and chewing Jawline exercises and mewing The impact of chewing and hard foods on oral and dental health The Dental Diet | Dr Steven Lin Episode 239 Baby Led Weaning Speech and tongue function Why coconut oil pulling is a game-changer Remineralizing gum Larine   This episode is sponsored by:  This episode is sponsored by Carnivore Snax, a delicious snack combining just 2 ingredients: meat and Redmond Real Salt! These melt-in-your-mouth meat pastries are like no other dehydrated meat product or jerky on the market. We love that Carnivore Snax are a pro-America brand who sources from US farmers practicing regenerative agriculture and are verified by the Savory Institute confirming their carbon sequestering status. Check out the ribeye, pork loin, brisket and leg of lamb for just a few of our favorites! Use code NNPODCAST to save 15% off your order and get free shipping on $125 or more at carnivoresnax.com.  

Join Ali as she interviews Robin Switzer entrepreneur and owner of Hack your Health as she shares about this November’s event in Tampa, FL. Robin talks about the shift from KetoCon to Hack your Health and how the organization is evolving with the mission to empower individuals to take charge of their well-being, age powerfully, and elevate their quality of life. Robin shares on her evolution of diet and how she’s adjusted her wellness approaches over the years. In this episode Ali and Robin reflect on past events really highlighting how Hack Your Health is more than just a conference—it’s a movement. As the organization is still rooted in low-carb, zero-carb, and ketogenic approaches, the conference has expanded to include mental resilience, biohacking, meditation, fasting, sleep optimization, fitness, and human performance—because true health goes beyond diet alone. Robin shares exciting opportunities at this year’s event and some of the amazing speakers to look forward to learning from. Ali will be speaking on the main stage this year with the topic “Resilience in a time of Toxicity: Food-as-Medicine, Supplement, and Lifestyle solutions to offset the impact of EMF, Microplastics, and Glyphosate”. Grab your tickets and come join in for an unforgettable weekend of education, exploration, and transformation November 14-16 in Tampa FL. Hack your Health Tickets are live and available use NOURISH100 to save $100 off your weekend pass. Get your tickets here!  Learn more at www.hackyourhealth.com   This episode is sponsored by:  This episode is sponsored by Carnivore Snax, a delicious snack combining just 2 ingredients: meat and Redmond Real Salt! These melt-in-your-mouth meat pastries are like no other dehydrated meat product or jerky on the market. We love that Carnivore Snax are a pro-America brand who sources from US farmers practicing regenerative agriculture and are verified by the Savory Institute confirming their carbon sequestering status. Check out the ribeye, pork loin, brisket and leg of lamb for just a few of our favorites! Use code NNPODCAST to save 15% off your order and get free shipping on $125 or more at carnivoresnax.com.  

Do you really need a colonoscopy? Whether you’re hitting your 40s and facing pressure to schedule your first scope, or you’re curious if non-invasive options like Cologuard are good enough, we’ve got you covered in this week’s episode. We break down the pros and cons of each screening method, highlight some major concerns, and unpack the surprising data on the rise of colorectal cancer—especially in younger populations. In this episode, we also dig into how dysbiosis, inflammation, and diet play a role in colon cancer development—and more importantly, how you can be proactive with prevention. From sulforaphane to resistant starch, you’ll walk away with tangible tools to love on your colon and support optimal detox and gut health. Also in this episode:  Colon cancer stats Why are we seeing an increase in younger adults?  Risk factors for colon cancer Bacon in the Oven (Plus Bacon Health Benefits and Myths) - YouTube Inflammazyme (for polyps) Colonoscopy vs. Cologuard GI Map Stool Test Occult blood Secretory IgA  Calprotectin Microbiome makeup Beta-glucoronidase SCFAs Colonoscopy Prep Pre and Post Surgery Protocol Bone Broth Gelatin (not red or purple!) Castor oil Buffered Vitamin C Mag Citrate Lily of The Desert Aloe Vera Juice Whole Leaf Electrolyte Limeade Post Procedure Support GI Lining Support Targeted Strength Probiotic Rebuild Spectrum Probiotic  Colon Cancer Prevention Reducing Toxicity while Grilling Fiber Rich Foods Phytofiber Polyphenols Lemon Turmeric Shooter Healthy Fats Fermented Foods The seed oil colon cancer link Supplement Support Vitamin D Balanced Blend Inflammazyme EPA DHA Extra Cellular Antiox Restore Baseline Probiotic Probiotic Challenge Rebuild Spectrum Probiotic Women’s Flora Probiotic GI Lining Support GI Immune Builder Multidefense   This episode is sponsored by: This episode is sponsored by Wild Foods, a company that puts quality, sustainability, and health first in all of their products. They have everything from coffee to turmeric to medicinal mushrooms, and every single product is painstakingly sourced from small farms around the globe. They take their mission seriously to fix the broken food system, and believe real food is medicine. They've partnered with us to give you guys an exclusive discount, so use the code ALIMILLERRD for 12% off your order at WildFoods.co!   

Have you learned about the impact of stress on your body and know the risks of chronic stress but lack the tools or resources to make stress management a reality? This episode is for you. Tune in to learn 5 stress management tools that are free, effective, and available in various forms for all ages!   In this episode, Ali and Brady, her guest cohost, go into the role of stress on whole body health and why stress management can be difficult to achieve. Ali covers the role of breath, internal thought patterns, time in nature, intentional connection, and releasing the stress of diet perfection as key ways to harness the stress response in the body.    Also in this episode: Why Stress Matters 4-7-8 Breath Video Establishing breathwork practice with our children The role of daylight on stress Nature as Medicine podcast  The role of connection in stress management Self talk and eliminating negative thoughts Determining your allostatic load Life Inventory Checklist Adaptogen Boost Relax and Regulate GABACalm Calm and Clear Stress Manager Supplement Bundle Stress Busting Snacks Video This episode is sponsored by: This episode is sponsored by FOND Bone Broth, your sous chef in a jar. FOND’s bone broths and tallows are produced in small batches with premium ingredients from verified regenerative ranches. Their ingredients are synergistically paired for maximum absorption, nutritional benefit, and flavor. Use code ALIMILLERRD to save 10% at fondbonebroth.com/ALIMILLERRD  

While mammograms are often pushed at age 40 as the gold standard for breast health screening, many women are questioning the risk-reward ratio and seeking safer, more holistic alternatives. Could thermography be a more proactive, less harmful approach to identifying early dysfunction in the body? This episode explores the topic of thermography as a non-invasive, radiation-free tool for wellness assessment.  In this episode, we are  joined by special guest Amanda Allen, owner of Austin Thermography, to break down the science, safety, and practical application of thermal imaging. We discuss how thermography differs from conventional screenings, what types of patterns it can detect—ranging from inflammation to hormonal imbalances—and how it may serve as an early warning system long before a disease manifests structurally. Whether you’re looking to support breast health, monitor chronic conditions, or simply stay in tune with your body’s signals, this episode will help you consider if thermography has a place in your wellness toolbox. More about Amanda Allen of Austin Thermography:  Amanda is trained and certified by the Professional Academy of Clinical Thermology as a Thermographic Technician. As the owner of Austin Thermography, she provides the highest quality thermographic imaging, using the latest, most advanced infrared camera available, so you can have a more complete picture of your health.  Amanda has 15 years of experience in patient care and takes great pride in putting her clients at ease throughout the screening process.   More information here:  Austin Thermography Breast Thermography International   Also in this episode:  Episode 313 Estrogen Metabolism and Breast Health Why Ali’s opting out of mammogram Exposing the Mammogram Myth: A New Era of Breast Cancer Screening with Dr. Jenn Simmons Amanda’s Story What is thermography? Lymph activation Episode 298 Moving Your Lymph The importance of early detection How to prep for thermography How EMF can interfere Episode 394 The Human Electrical Force Patient success stories Breastfeeding and pregnancy concerns   Sponsors for this episode:  This episode is sponsored by FOND Bone Broth, your sous chef in a jar. FOND’s bone broths and tallows are produced in small batches with premium ingredients from verified regenerative ranches. Their ingredients are synergistically paired for maximum absorption, nutritional benefit, and flavor. Use code ALIMILLERRD to save at https://fondbonebroth.com/ALIMILLERRD. 

In this episode, we’re unpacking an often-overlooked topic in women’s health—testosterone. While commonly associated with men, testosterone is a vital hormone for women too, impacting energy, metabolism, muscle tone, libido, mood, and even cognitive function. Low levels can show up as stubborn fatigue, brain fog, irritability, weight gain, and decreased sex drive. We discuss how to spot the signs of low testosterone and explore how this hormone influences everything from your energy levels to your mental clarity. We also share thoughts on the rise of testosterone replacement options like pellets and injections, including what to watch out for. You’ll learn natural, food-as-medicine strategies to support testosterone levels, plus key nutrients, lifestyle shifts, and supplement considerations. If you’ve been feeling off and suspect hormones might be to blame, this episode is a must-listen! Also in this episode:  Why Do Women Need Testosterone? 5 Ways to Boost Testosterone How Do Women Produce Testosterone? Symptoms of low testosterone Why Do Women Experience Low Testosterone? Testing testosterone Episode 395 Testing Women's Hormones: Saliva, Urine and Blood Total Testosterone Free Testosterone DHEA-S SHBG Dutch Panel Neurohormone Complete Plus Thoughts on testosterone pellets How to naturally boost testosterone Episode 438 The Vagus Nerve Food as medicine for boosting testosterone ARCHIVE Food-as-Medicine Ketosis Program Best Supplements for Low Testosterone in Women Multidefense MultiAvail Mama Relax and Regulate Vitamin D Balanced Blend Calm and Clear Adaptogen Boost Shilajit  DHEA (with testing only) When to consider bioidentical testosterone supplementation?  Who should not use testosterone replacement What about high levels of testosterone in women?  Episode 430 Keto and PCOS Relax and Regulate Detox Packs Berberine Boost Cellular Antiox   Sponsors for this episode:  This episode is sponsored by Wild Foods, a company that puts quality, sustainability, and health first in all of their products. They have everything from coffee to turmeric to medicinal mushrooms, and every single product is painstakingly sourced from small farms around the globe. They take their mission seriously to fix the broken food system, and believe real food is medicine. They've partnered with us to give you guys an exclusive discount, so use the code ALIMILLERRD for 12% off your order at WildFoods.co!   

Collagen is everywhere—but not all collagen is created equal. In this episode, we’re diving into the science-backed benefits of collagen, from skin elasticity and joint support to gut and bone health. We’ll explore how patented peptides make a difference in absorption and efficacy, plus break down the latest research on how to get the most out of your collagen routine. Plus we’re celebrating the fresh new look of our Pure Collagen!  Tune in as we answer your top collagen questions, including Can I put collagen in my coffee? Do I need vitamin C for absorption? And what’s the deal with the social media rumors linking collagen to cancer? Whether you’re a longtime collagen user or just curious about its benefits, this episode will give you the facts you need to support your body from the inside out! Also in this episode:  Get Pure Collagen for 15% off with code NEWLOOK What is collagen and why do we need it? What accelerates collagen loss? How can we support collagen production?  What sets Pure Collagen apart? Fortigel Current Medical Research and Opinion Osteoarthritis and Cartilage Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition Verisol Skin Pharmacology and Physiology Journal of Medicinal Food Nutrients Fortibone Nutrients Journal of Clinical Densitometry Journal of the American College of Nutrition Do I need to worry about heavy metals in collagen? Consumer Beware: These Popular Collagen Supplements Contain Heavy Metals Collagen is not a complete protein, do I need to supplement with something else? What’s the difference between collagen and gelatin? What about collagen and cancer? Do I need vitamin C to absorb collagen?  Bio-C Plus Can I still put collagen in my coffee? Bone Broth Hot Cocoa | A Nutrient Dense Indulgence for Kids Smoothies and Shakes Ebook Is vegan collagen a thing?  Dosage and considerations For preventative health/wellness: 1 scoop/day Pregnancy/postpartum: 2 scoops/day Symptomatic (joint pain, etc): 2-3 scoops/day Perimenopause: 2 scoops/day Osteoporosis/osteopenia: 3 scoops/day Bone Builder Bundle Post-surgical: 4 scoops/day for 2 weeks   Sponsors for this episode:  Pure Collagen: The Ultimate Collagen Support for Skin, Joints, and Bones Shop now with code NEWLOOK   Pure Collagen is sourced from pasture-raised cows and we lab test every batch to ensure there are no heavy metals including mercury, lead, cadmium, and arsenic. But our purity isn’t the only thing that sets our product apart from competitors, it is all about the extraction!    Pure Collagen is not just a protein powder or even just collagen peptides! Our product is made through a proprietary extraction method that produces bioactive peptides shown in research to stimulate new bone, joint cartilage tissue, and skin, hair, and nails via regenerative anti-aging effects. Our formula contains research supported patented peptides FORTIGEL, FORTIBONE, and VERISOL, 3 compounds that promote synthesis of collagen and stimulate focused cells to prevent breakdown while supporting new growth.   Fortigel supports chondrocytes for cartilage health to promote joint function and reduce joint pain. Verisol stimulates fibroblasts to support the production of collagen for improved structure and appearance of the skin, reduction of cellulite, healthy hair growth, and anti-aging effects. Fortibone stimulates osteoblasts to improve bone density and the body’s mineralization processes while supporting bone strength.