137: Thriving Health Starts in the Gut with Dr. Will B

Episode Notes Welcome to another special edition of NHA Today, the official podcast of the National Health Association. As part of our guest host series, this episode is led by Chuck Carroll, host of The Exam Room Podcast from the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM). Chuck is joined by Dr. Will Bulsiewicz (“Dr. B”), The Gut Health MD, for a wide-ranging conversation on gut health, healing, and lifestyle medicine. Together they explore: Why heartburn and GERD are really gut motility issues The role of diet, fiber, and the microbiome in supporting long-term health The risks of long-term reliance on reflux medications How stress, sleep, and exercise influence digestion through the gut-brain axis The importance of community, including Dr. B’s Gut Health Collective Insights from his upcoming book Plant Powered Plus This episode delivers practical strategies and empowering science for anyone looking to improve their gut health and overall well-being.   Links & Resources 🌐 Learn more about the National Health Association, explore membership, and subscribe to Health Sciencemagazine: healthscience.org 🎙️ Thank you to Chuck Carroll and The Exam Room Podcast for guest hosting! Listen here: The Exam Room Podcast (PCRM) 🌱 Explore more from Dr. Will Bulsiewicz: The Gut Health MD

Burnout, Balance & the Plant-Powered Adrenal Reset with Dr. Kendra Kautz Episode Summary Are you running on caffeine, pushing through fatigue, and wondering why your body won’t cooperate anymore? You’re not alone. In this episode of the National Health Association Podcast, chiropractor and hormone health expert Dr. Kendra Kautz unpacks the connection between burnout, adrenal dysfunction, and nutrition—and why a plant-forward diet is one of the most powerful foundations for recovery. Dr. Kautz shares her own journey with adrenal fatigue, explains the three phases of adrenal exhaustion, and highlights how fruits, vegetables, and whole plant foods provide the critical vitamins and minerals our stressed bodies need. From vitamin C–rich produce like bell peppers and kiwi to simple daily practices like lemon water with minerals, she shows how everyday plant-based nutrition can help rebuild depleted adrenals. This is a must-listen for anyone who wants to reclaim energy, balance hormones, and support long-term health—without relying only on quick fixes or stimulants. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The three phases of adrenal exhaustion—and how to recognize where you are ✅ How burnout shows up in the body, from sleep issues to hormone imbalances ✅ Why chronic infections and hidden stressors can keep you wired and tired ✅ How a plant-powered diet restores key nutrients (Vitamin C, magnesium, B vitamins, zinc, potassium) needed for adrenal balance ✅ The top plant foods Dr. Kautz recommends—like bell peppers, citrus, brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes ✅ Foundational supports beyond food: nervous system regulation, breathwork, and sleep hygiene ✅ Supplement insights: adaptogens, glandular support, and when to use them About Dr. Kendra Kautz Dr. Kendra Kautz is a Newport Beach–based chiropractor who specializes in hormone health, adrenal support, and integrative care. After facing her own struggles with adrenal fatigue and hormonal imbalance, she now helps patients heal from burnout by addressing structural, chemical, emotional, and nutritional health together—with a strong emphasis on plant-forward eating. 📍 Connect with Dr. Kendra: Instagram: @alignedwithdoctorkendra Website: doctorkendra.com Resources Mentioned Dutch Plus Test for cortisol and hormone insights Plant-based nutrient sources: Vitamin C (bell peppers, kiwi, citrus, strawberries), Magnesium (leafy greens, legumes), Potassium (bananas, sweet potatoes), B vitamins (whole grains, beans, seeds) Adaptogens: ashwagandha, holy basil, rhodiola, lemon balm Nervous system practices: meditation, craniosacral work, breathwork, and sleep rituals ✨ If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend who’s navigating stress or burnout. Subscribe for more conversations on the healing power of a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle.

Episode Summary Dr. Stephanie Peacock interviews Natalie Golba, co-founder of The Healthiest Chef, about making plant-based eating accessible for busy professionals. Natalie shares her transformation story and practical strategies for incorporating 42 different plants into your weekly diet without spending hours in the kitchen. Guest Bio Natalie Golba is a Harvard-trained plant-based chef and co-founder of The Healthiest Chef. After struggling with unexplained weight gain for three years despite working with trainers and nutritionists, she discovered the power of whole food nutrition and now helps others make sustainable dietary changes. Key Topics The Healthiest Chef Program - A comprehensive nutrition education platform for busy professionals featuring expert interviews and practical cooking instruction that teaches 2-hour weekly meal prep. Personal Journey - Natalie's 3-year struggle with weight gain and her partner Irina's lifelong digestive issues led them to create solutions for others facing similar challenges. Client Transformations - Weight loss, digestive healing, increased energy, and most notably, complete cooking beginners becoming creative recipe developers. Meal Prep Strategy - Start with one simple meal like overnight oats (15 minutes for 3 days), gradually add a weekly soup, focus on plant diversity over complicated macro counting. Recipe Development - Each recipe goes through 3-20 iterations to ensure flavors are "10 times better than processed food" for long-term sustainability. Upcoming Projects Detox Program - Launching after July 4th with Dr. Stephanie Peacock, featuring easy meal prep and a free nontoxic masterclass. Future Vision - Specialized nutrition programs for cancer and cardiovascular patients to support medical treatment. Resources The Healthiest Chef: healthiestchef.com Follow: @NatalieGolba and @DrStephPeacock for detox program updates

Menopause doesn’t signal decline — it’s a powerful new chapter of recalibration and growth. In this episode of NHA Today, host Dr. Peter sits down with Dr. Analila Valencia, naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist, to explore how women can thrive during menopause through nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle medicine. Dr. Valencia brings clarity, encouragement, and evidence-based strategies to help women feel strong, vibrant, and empowered in this stage of life. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why Protein Matters During Menopause How increased protein intake helps prevent muscle loss, improves bone health, and supports energy and longevity. Plant-Based Protein Powerhouses Practical ways to meet daily needs with lentils, beans, hemp seeds, soy foods, and even innovative new options like fava bean tofu. The Role of Amino Acids Why leucine is especially important for protein synthesis and muscle preservation in midlife. Strength Training & Lifestyle Supports How resistance exercise, sleep, meditation, and nervous system care improve resilience, cognition, and overall well-being. Fasting and Hormone Health Insights on when and how fasting can be used as a “reset” during perimenopause and menopause. A New Perspective on Menopause Dr. Valencia reframes menopause as an opportunity for empowerment, encouraging women to see it as a season of thriving rather than decline. Resources & Links Connect with Dr. Analila Valencia: dranalilavalencia.com Learn more about the National Health Association: https://healthscience.org Read the blog: https://healthscience.org/133-Dr-Analila-Valencia Watch on youtube: https://youtu.be/Al-fG3jJFr8 Subscribe to NHA Today on your favorite podcast app.

Podcast Show Notes: Plant-Based Nutrition for Cancer Recovery Guest: Hanna Rakowska Registered Holistic Nutritionist and Certified Holistic Cancer Practitioner Hanna is a cancer survivor (Hodgkin's lymphoma, 2006) who discovered the power of plant-based nutrition during her own treatment. After her oncologist told her "there's nothing you can do at home," she knew that wasn't right and dedicated her career to helping cancer patients feel heard and empowered. The SOAR™ Framework Hanna's signature approach to cancer recovery: S - Suppress cancer cell growth using phytochemicals in plant foods O - Optimize nutritional status to enhance treatment outcomes A - Activate the body's innate healing mechanisms R - Reduce treatment side effects (short-term and long-term) Key Takeaways Protein for Cancer Patients: Need 1.2-1.4 grams per kilogram of body weight (higher than average). Best plant sources include edamame, tofu, tempeh, protein powders, and even leafy greens. Top Cancer-Fighting Foods: Cruciferous vegetables (at least 1 cup daily), berries, turmeric, green tea, flaxseed, garlic, omega-3 rich foods like walnuts and hemp hearts. Beyond Food: Exercise boosts natural killer cells, forest bathing stimulates immunity, and mind-body practices like meditation activate healing mechanisms. Cancer-Specific Nutrition: Different cancers benefit from targeted foods - soy and cruciferous vegetables for breast cancer, walnuts for colorectal cancer. Client Success "I was in pretty rough shape after starting breast cancer treatments - fatigued, inflamed, with digestive and sleep issues. Hanna got me back on track to a balanced state of health." - Leah Avery Connect with Our Host Stephanie Website: https://stephaniepeacock.com Instagram & TikTok: @DrStephPeacock Podcast: The Holistic Health Podcast (biweekly episodes) Schedule a discovery call through her website  Connect with Our Guest Hanna Website: backtobalancenutrition.com Instagram: @backtobalancenutrition Free resource: Daily Guide of Cancer-Fighting Foods Online course: 7-Day Anti-Cancer Diet Kickstart ($47) Bottom Line: Food can function as "nontoxic chemotherapy" - there's so much cancer patients can do at home to support their treatment and healing journey.

Episode Summary In this enlightening episode of the NHA Today podcast, guest host Stacie Haney interviews Dr. Stephanie Peacock about the powerful role of plant-based nutrition in detoxification and healing from environmental toxins. Dr. Peacock shares her personal journey from competitive swimming to becoming an expert in mold illness and environmental toxicity, offering practical strategies for supporting the body's natural detox pathways through food, lifestyle, and targeted supplementation. Key Topics Covered The Power of Plant-Based Detoxification How fiber and bioflavonoids in plants help bind and eliminate toxins The importance of dietary diversity for gut microbiome health Specific color bands of foods that target different toxins (e.g., red foods for citrin detoxification) Understanding Your Body's Detox Pathways The three phases of liver detoxification explained in simple terms Why gut motility is crucial for toxin elimination The role of sweating as a detox pathway Environmental Toxins in Modern Life EPA estimates indoor air is 2-5x more toxic than outdoor air 50-60% of American homes have some form of water damage Hidden sources of toxin exposure in everyday products Practical Detox Strategies Foundation Foods & Supplements: 2 tablespoons daily of ground flax or chia seeds as natural binders Broccoli sprouts for liver support and microplastic detoxification Bitter greens to stimulate bile flow Organic produce to reduce pesticide exposure Lifestyle Modifications: Water filtration (reverse osmosis or distillation) Air purification for indoor spaces Natural cleaning products 7-8 hours of quality sleep Regular movement (20-30 minutes, 4-5x weekly) Sweating through exercise, saunas, or hot baths Supporting Supplements (when needed): Magnesium for gut motility Milk thistle for liver support Modified citrus pectin for pesticide binding Omega-3s for cellular health Testing & Assessment Vibrant Wellness Total Tox Burden Test Importance of checking liver enzymes and kidney function When to consider viral load panels Key Takeaways Food First Approach: Most detoxification can be accomplished through a diverse, colorful plant-based diet rather than expensive supplements Address the Basics: Before complex protocols, ensure proper gut motility, adequate hydration, and regular sweating Environmental Awareness: Simple swaps in water, air quality, and personal care products can significantly reduce toxic burden Individual Assessment: Chronic health issues may stem from hidden environmental exposures that standard medical tests miss About Dr. Stephanie Peacock Dr. Peacock is a holistic health practitioner specializing in environmental toxicity and mold illness. After her own experience with mold exposure while working at TrueNorth Health Center, she developed expertise in helping others navigate complex environmental health challenges through plant-based nutrition and targeted detoxification strategies. Connect with Dr. Stephanie Peacock Website: https://stephaniepeacock.com Instagram & TikTok: @DrStephPeacock Podcast: The Holistic Health Podcast (biweekly episodes) Schedule a discovery call through her website Host Stacey Heiney (Guest host for The NHL Today Podcast) Organic farmer and wellness advocate FREE Resource: Get Stacey's healthy vegan Sauces, Dips & Dressings e-book: https://theherbanfarmacy.mykajabi.com/the-secret-is-in-the-sauce Website: theherbanfarmacy.com Instagram: @theherbanfarmacy Resources Mentioned CLEAR app for checking product safety EWG (Environmental Working Group) database Branch Basics cleaning products Air Doctor air purifiers Vibrant Wellness testing panels Episode Reflection This conversation highlights how our modern environment presents unique health challenges that require a comprehensive approach combining ancestral wisdom about plant foods with modern understanding of detoxification. The emphasis on accessible, food-based solutions makes this valuable information for anyone looking to optimize their health in today's toxic world. The NHA Today podcast is powered by the National Health Association, bringing you real conversations about transforming health through food, mindset, and community.

Episode Summary Wellness pioneer and bestselling author Doug Evans reveals how sprouting can transform your health and wallet. Learn how to grow nutrient-dense vegetables on your countertop in just 5 days for under $1 per serving. Doug shares his incredible journey from fast food addiction to thriving on living foods, and explains why sprouts are up to 100x more nutritious than mature vegetables. Guest Bio Doug Evans is a visionary entrepreneur, wellness advocate, and bestselling author of The Sprout Book. He co-founded Organic Avenue, one of the first organic cold-pressed juice brands in the US, and later created The Sprouting Company, making it easier than ever for people to grow nutrient-dense food at home. Key Topics Covered Doug's Health Transformation From eating 4 cotton candies at basketball games to a plant-based lifestyle His typical McDonald's meal: Big Mac, Quarter Pounder, 9-piece nuggets, large fries, vanilla shake, apple pie, and hot fudge sundae Lost family members to diabetes, cancer, and heart disease before discovering plant-based nutrition Started sprouting 30 years ago after seeing sprouts at Union Square Farmers Market Why Sprouts Are Nutritional Powerhouses Up to 100x more nutrient-dense than mature vegetables Sprouted lentils increase vitamin C by 300% and quadruple antioxidants in just 3 days Travel only 2 feet (counter to table) vs. 2,000 miles for average vegetables You eat the entire plant: root, shoot, endosperm, and embryo Top Sprouts & Their Benefits Broccoli sprouts: Highest in sulforaphane (anti-cancer compound), most bioavailable on day 3 Alfalfa: More beta-carotene than GMO golden rice, plus vitamin C and chlorophyll Sprouted legumes (mung beans, lentils, chickpeas): High in amino acids, keep you full Red clover: Beautiful texture, mild flavor, great crunch Getting Started with Sprouting 1/4 cup of seeds = 5 cups of sprouts in 5 days Costs under $1 per serving No soil, sunshine, or fertilizer needed The Sprouting Company's jar features: larger vessel, better drainage, stainless steel filter Seeds are tested for pathogens and microplastics How to Use Sprouts Add to any meal: salads, smoothies, juices, wraps Mash with avocado and wrap in nori for quick meal Top pizzas, tamales, soups - increases nutrition 1000x Can eat directly from the jar as a snack Store fresh homegrown sprouts for over a week Key Takeaways Sprouts are vegetables, not just garnishes - they can be entire meals Growing your own eliminates plastic packaging and ensures freshness Perfect for food deserts or anyone wanting local, organic produce year-round The most nutritious food is paradoxically also the lowest cost Sprouting breaks you free from processed foods and reconnects you with natural flavors Resources Mentioned The Sprout Book by Doug Evans Eat to Live by Dr. Joel Fuhrman The Sprouting Company: TheSproutingCompany.com Follow Doug: @dougevans on Instagram and TikTok Notable Quotes "What if I told you that you can grow the most nutrient dense food on the planet in five days on your kitchen countertop, without soil, without sunshine, without fertilizer?" "Everybody should be sprouting, everybody should be eating sprouts." "Most people are living to eat... but we should eat to live." "The world is hungry for fresh produce, and miraculously, sprouts grow in all climates, all seasons, all geographies." Host Stacey Heiney (Guest host for The NHL Today Podcast) Organic farmer and wellness advocate FREE Resource: Get Stacey's healthy vegan Sauces, Dips & Dressings e-book: https://theherbanfarmacy.mykajabi.com/the-secret-is-in-the-sauce Website: theherbanfarmacy.com Instagram: @theherbanfarmacy Connect with Doug Instagram: @dougevans TikTok: @dougevans Website: TheSproutingCompany.com Doug answers questions and supports the sprouting community directly Note: Doug lived exclusively on sprouts for 30-day periods while living in the Mojave Desert, proving their complete nutritional value.

In this compelling conversation, holistic nutritionist Stacey Heiny sits down with Melissa Maris, a passionate advocate for raw vegan living who has been thriving on this lifestyle since 2014. After years of yo-yo dieting, severe gut issues, and hitting rock bottom with her health at age 34, Melissa discovered the transformative power of a low-fat raw vegan diet. Now, 11 years later, she shares her journey of healing and the practical wisdom she's gained along the way. Guest Bio Melissa Maris is a raw vegan educator, recipe developer, and photographer who champions animal welfare and optimal health through plant-based living. She speaks at various events and summits, has created over 1,000 raw vegan recipes across 28 eBooks, and runs an online community helping others transition to and thrive on a raw food lifestyle. Known as Raw Food Romance on social media, she combines her culinary creativity with practical solutions for sustainable healthy living. Episode Overview Melissa shares her powerful transformation story, from working at a health food store while secretly struggling with candida, cystic acne, and disordered eating patterns, to discovering the missing pieces that made raw veganism finally work for her. The conversation explores practical strategies for incorporating more raw foods, strengthening gut health, and creating a sustainable approach to healthy eating without restriction or guilt. Key Topics Discussed The critical difference between high-fat and low-fat raw vegan approaches Why adequate calorie intake is essential for raw food success Building digestive strength through fiber diversity and gradual adaptation The role of psyllium husk in gut healing and recipe creation Balancing raw and cooked foods without demonizing either Creating convenience foods like dehydrated wraps for busy lifestyles The importance of meal timing and frequency on a raw diet Mindset shifts that support long-term healthy habits Notable Insights Most raw food diets fail due to undereating and excessive fat consumption The gut microbiome needs time to adapt to higher fiber intake Cooking methods matter: steaming and boiling preserve more nutrients than high-heat methods Starting the day with fruit provides sustainable energy and supports proper digestion Creating raw versions of familiar foods helps with social situations and travel Resources Mentioned Hand Salads: Raw Vegan Wraps (available as eBook and hardcover) Over 28 raw vegan recipe eBooks covering burgers, tacos, ice cream, and more Community School at rawfoodromance.com for live classes and support Excalibur dehydrator for creating wraps and warming foods Connect with Melissa Maris Instagram: @rawfoodromance YouTube: Raw Food Romance Website: rawfoodromance.com eBooks: payhip.com/rawfoodromance (use code RAWFOOD40 for 40% off) Episode Takeaway Melissa's journey reminds us that true health transformation isn't about perfection or restriction, but about finding an approach that nourishes both body and soul. By focusing on abundance rather than limitation, adequate nutrition rather than deprivation, and thinking of our future selves when making daily choices, we can create sustainable changes that last a lifetime. About Your Host Stacey Heiny is a Certified Holistic Nutritionist and Plant-Based Nutrition Coach who founded The Herban Farmacy to help women transform their health through whole food, plant-based living. Having interviewed over 150 experts in the wellness world and broken free from her own struggles with food, she brings both professional expertise and personal understanding to every conversation. Stacey lives in Indiana where she and her husband Kyle own an organic produce farm. Connect with Stacey: Website: theherbanfarmacy.com Instagram: @theherbanfarmacy New Today Podcast is powered by the National Health Association. Subscribe for weekly conversations exploring the path to lasting health and fulfillment through whole food plant-based living.

Show Notes: From Rock Bottom to Radiant Health with Stacey Heiny Episode Overview In this inspiring episode, guest host Maxime Sigouin sits down with Stacey Heiny, a certified holistic nutritionist and lifestyle wellness mentor who transformed her life from depression, anxiety, and chronic health issues to vibrant wellness through plant-based living and mind-body practices. Guest Bio Stacey Heiny is a certified holistic nutritionist, lifestyle wellness mentor, and founder of The Herban Farmacy. She holds certifications from the Physicians Committee (Food for Life instructor), Cornell University (plant-based nutrition), and is a newly certified plant-based coach through the Food Revolution Network. From her organic farm in Indiana, she grows produce, crafts elderberry wellness remedies, and empowers women through coaching, e-courses, and community building around clean living and holistic health. Key Topics Discussed Stacey's Transformation Journey Rock bottom moment: Depression, anxiety, ADHD medication (Adderall), asthma, and poor lifestyle habits in her early 20s Pivotal moment: Lying on the couch after eating Papa John's pizza, realizing "there had to be something more" The catalyst: Mind-body connection through Pilates and yoga Books that changed everything: Natural remedies guide, "Diet for a New America" by John Robbins Documentary impact: "Fast Food Nation" - immediate shift away from meat consumption The Mind-Body Connection Revolution Breaking free from the "caffeinated morning, wine at night" lifestyle Learning to slow down and connect with her body through Pilates and yoga The gut-brain connection and managing IBS symptoms through stress reduction Moving from sympathetic to parasympathetic nervous system dominance Common Plant-Based Transition Mistakes Under-fueling: The biggest hurdle - not eating enough calories due to lower caloric density of plant foods Fear of starch: Avoiding necessary complex carbohydrates like whole grains, beans, and potatoes Perfectionism trap: All-or-nothing mentality instead of sustainable progress Inadequate protein planning: Especially important for women over 40 dealing with sarcopenia Practical Solutions for Success Plate balancing: Understanding caloric density and proper portions Protein optimization: Embracing minimally processed options like tofu, tempeh, and plant protein powders Meal timing: "Eat like a king in the morning, prince at lunch, pauper at dinner" Social navigation: Planning ahead for restaurants and social gatherings Breaking Free from Societal Norms The leadership mindset: Being the leader in your social circle for healthy choices Restaurant strategies: Ordering first, asking for modifications without shame Family and peer pressure: Navigating holidays and social events while staying committed Personal Development and Authenticity Daily self-work: Listening to podcasts, working with coaches, and continuous growth Your story matters: The power of sharing vulnerabilities to help others Fear of judgment: Working through limiting beliefs and taking "messy, imperfect action" Community importance: Finding supportive people who align with your values The Farm Life Integration Organic farming journey: Growing from backyard gardening to operating a farm Farmers market success: Selling organic produce and herbal remedies Future vision: Creating plant-based foods for the local community using tested recipes Toxin reduction: Growing clean food as part of overall wellness strategy Key Takeaways Start with mind-body connection - Slow, mindful movement can be the gateway to overall health transformation Fuel properly - Don't under-eat when transitioning to plant-based; embrace healthy starches Progress over perfection - 85% plant-based is better than giving up entirely Plan for social situations - Preparation is key to maintaining your lifestyle in challenging environments Invest in personal development - Daily self-work and coaching accelerate growth Your story has power - Sharing your journey authentically helps others and strengthens your own commitment Resources Mentioned Certifications: Food Revolution Network Plant-Based Coaching Certification: https://certificate.foodrevolution.org/join/ (Stacey calls this "one of the best certifications" she's taken and believes "everybody needs to become a plant-based coach") Books: "Diet for a New America" by John Robbins "The Kind Diet" by Alicia Silverstone "Sun Food Diet Success System" by David Wolfe "4,000 Weeks" by Oliver Burkeman Products: Big Mountain Foods Fava Bean Tofu (64g protein per block) Podcasts: The Mindset Mentor with Rob Dial Upcoming Events: Modern Homemaker Conference - September 2025 (Indiana) NHA Conference - June 2025 Connect with Stacey Instagram: @TheHerbanFarmacy YouTube: The Herban Farmacy Facebook: Stacey Heiny Free Resource: High Raw Revival Mini Video Course - A guide to incorporating more raw, living plant foods into your diet for better health and glowing skin. Final Thoughts This episode beautifully illustrates that transformation is possible at any stage of life when you're willing to challenge societal norms and prioritize your health. Stacey's journey from rock bottom to radiant wellness serves as a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, community support, and commitment to personal growth, we can reclaim our health and help others do the same. Remember: Life is only 4,000 weeks - what are you going to do with yours? Guest Host: Maxime Sigouin is the founder and CEO of Fit Vegan Coaching, helping people optimize their health through plant-based nutrition and lifestyle design.

About This Episode Join host Maxime Sigouin as he sits down with Dr. Csilla Veress, a naturopathic doctor from True North Health Center, to explore the fascinating world of medically-supervised water fasting and its profound effects on gut health. Dr. Veress shares her 11-year journey witnessing incredible health transformations and breaks down the science behind fasting's impact on the microbiome. Guest Bio Dr. Csilla Veress is a licensed naturopathic doctor practicing at True North Health Center in California. After leaving a successful career in advertising, she discovered her passion for natural healing and has spent over a decade helping patients reverse chronic diseases through fasting and whole food plant-based nutrition. What We Cover Dr. Veress's journey from advertising executive to naturopathic doctor Why True North's approach to fasting is unique (pure water, total rest, no supplements) The surprising connection between fasting and gut microbiome diversity What happens in your body during a 3-40 day water fast Why most people fail at fasting at home vs. in a supervised setting The role of stress as the #1 obstacle to health Practical first steps for someone wanting to improve their health Key Insights 💡 The Community Effect: Fasting is exponentially easier in a supportive environment with others doing the same thing 💡 Microbiome Magic: We have 370 trillion microbes vs. 37 trillion human cells - we're more ecosystem than human 💡 The Stress Factor: 85-90% of patients cite stress as their biggest obstacle when trying to maintain healthy habits at home 💡 Autophagy Timing: Significant cellular cleanup begins around hour 17 of fasting 💡 Foundation Philosophy: You can't optimize one pillar of health while ignoring others - holistic approach required Memorable Quotes "I see miracles every day... people coming in with information from their medical team saying you can't heal this, you can't reverse that, and we see people doing the impossible." - Dr. Veress "You can't connect the dots looking forward, only looking backwards." - Steve Jobs (referenced by Maxime) "People don't know how bad they feel until they feel good." - Common patient feedback Actionable Takeaways Start with one question: "What is your biggest obstacle to your health?" Build your stack of wins: Begin with tiny changes (one extra glass of water daily) Address the stress piece: Identify and tackle stress sources before focusing solely on diet Consider the environment: Change your surroundings to change your habits more effectively Resources Mentioned True North Health Center: healthpromoting.com Dr. Csilla Veress: DrCsillaVeress.com NHA (Natural Hygiene Association) Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine Bastyr University (naturopathic medical school) Connect with Dr. Veress Website: DrCsillaVeress.com True North Health Center for consultations and programs Connect with Maxime Fit Vegan Coaching [Include host's social media/website] Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe and leave a review to help others discover these conversations about optimal health and longevity.