Staying Healthy Today Show with Kirk Hamilton

Professor Robyn Cosford, MBBS (Hons) FACNEM FASLM (retired)Sydney, [email protected]‘Spikeopathy’: COVID-19 Spike Protein Is Pathogenic, from Both Virus and Vaccine mRNA. Biomedicines. 2023 Aug 17;11(8):2287.” 11/2026Interview SummaryIn this interview, Professor Robyn Cosford discusses the potential pathogenic effects of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein from both natural COVID-19 infection and COVID-19 mRNA injections, drawing on she and her colleagues 2023 peer-reviewed literature review, “Spikeopathy: COVID-19 Spike Protein Is Pathogenic, from Both Virus and Vaccine mRNA.” Professor Cosford explains the differences between the two types of spike proteins, including the vaccine spike protein’s modified structure, its two proline substitutions, and the use of modified mRNA and lipid nanoparticles, which she believes may contribute to prolonged spike protein production and persistence throughout the body. Dr. Cosford describes potential mechanisms of harm involving ACE2 receptors, cardiovascular inflammation, blood clotting, mitochondrial dysfunction, neurological inflammation, gastrointestinal microbiome changes, autoimmune responses, and other health conditions. Professor Cosford believes the vaccine-produced spike protein is more pathogenic than the spike protein from natural infection and may persist for years, whereas infection-related spike protein generally clears within weeks to months. Professor Cosford also discusses potential approaches to supporting spike protein clearance, including fasting, saunas, nattokinase, bromelain, NAC, zinc, and quercetin. She concludes by calling for further investigation into reported adverse effects, effective treatments for those affected, greater transparency, and a pause in further mRNA injections until their safety and risks have been thoroughly evaluated.InterviewKirk Hamilton: Can you please share with me your educational background and current position?Prof Robyn Cosford: I am a retired functional medicine practitioner and Professor of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine. I was a researcher with the University of Newcastle in New South Wales, Australia into the metabolic and gastrointestinal microbial patterns in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), ADHD and Autism, with ongoing research into gut microbial patterns; lecturer for 25 years with the Australasian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine; and clinician for nearly 40 years with a focus on children’s neurodevelopmental disorders, gastrointestinal dysfunction and CFS.KH: What got you interested in looking at the pathogenicity of the spike protein from the Covid-19 mRNA Injection?RC: I became interested in looking at the pathogenicity of the spike protein for several reasons. Firstly, the method of delivery was novel and untested: the lipids of the carrier were not natural lipids, the mRNA delivering the message was also not natural but modified to ensure longevity in the body unlike native mRNA, and the spike protein resulting was also different to the original Wuhan strain spike protein. There are risks associated with any and every medical intervention particularly if injected, so the benefit must outweigh the risk. This became a question for me as the injections were being promoted for all regardless of individual risk of Covid itself. As the key active component of the injections was the persistence of the spike protein and the responses elicited, this was an obvious subject of further investigation for me.I was fortunate to collaborate with my co-authors who had similar questions and we cooperated on a narrative literature review, ‘Spikeopathy’: COVID-19 Spike Protein Is Pathogenic, from Both Virus and Vaccine mRNA. It was rigorously peer-reviewed and published in the journal Biomedicines in August 2023. It is receiving a respectable number of citations. See: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/11/8/2287?s=35KH: What makes the spike protein pathogenic?RC: There are multiple reasons the spike protein is pathogenic. Via direct binding to angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the spike protein is able to activate many of the cellular components of the cardiovascular system, resulting in inflammation and dysfunction which can further result in microclots, larger clots, acute heart inflammation (myocarditis, pericarditis) and so on. ACE2 is a membrane-bound protein with the enzymatic ‘business end’ sitting on the outside of the cell membrane. This situation is exploited by the virus which can use it as a convenient site of cellular entry. Put another way, physiologically ACE2 is an enzyme, virologically it acts as a receptor. Moreover, research has shown that not only does the viral spike bind to the ACE-2 as expected, it also binds to numerous other proteins resulting in widespread effects in many metabolic pathways; indeed, other human proteins with plausible experimental evidence for spike protein binding include, but are not restricted to, KREMEN1 and ASGR1 (Hoffmann and Pohlmann 2022; Cell Res 32, 1-2). It is also able to cause direct damage to the mitochondria, resulting in mitochondrial damage, impaired energy production and downstream inflammation effects; it has also been demonstrated to cross the blood brain barrier via several routes and trigger inflammation in the brain; it has been demonstrated to be able to interact with gastrointestinal microbiotica to induce altered gastrointestinal flora patterns and thus affect the immune system and metabolism via that route also.This list is not exhaustive, as very many different effects have been reported. We covered much of the basic pathophysiological mechanisms in section 6 of our literature review.KH: Is there a difference between the physiology/biochemistry and pathogenicity of the spike protein from the Covid-19 virus versus that created by the mRNA vaccine technology?RC: There is a difference between the spike protein effect in acute Covid infection to that of the injection. In an acute infection, there is a sudden load of the spike protein initially in the respiratory tract which will elicit a local mucosal cellular immune response before the more generalized whole system response of antibodies; in most cases the body is able to clear the spike protein and the acute illness subsides, although some will go on to develop ‘long Covid’ rather like the ‘post viral syndrome’ that some would get after other viral infections.However, with the injection, the route is different, coming directly into the body via injection rather than by the respiratory tract: therefore, the initial responses will be predominantly via the humoral (antibody - mediated) immune system rather than the mucosal cellular immune system and a different whole body response is elicited; the spike protein rather than coming in a bolus, is released continually by our own manufacture in ribosomes in cells throughout the body.The widespread biodistribution through the body is because the mRNA encoding for spike protein is in a lipid-nanoparticle (LNP) matrix that transports it through cell and tissue membranes. Therefore, cells in all organs can become transfected by the LNP-mRNA complex injected into the deltoid muscle. This can occur for prolonged periods after the injection, with studies (as we reported in table 1 section 6 of our literature review) suggesting it can continue for months, and is boosted with each booster. In many people, it would seem, the spike protein is not cleared for a much longer duration than with acute infection.KH: Is there not a structural difference between the Spike protein the comes with the natural infection compared to the Spike protein created in the cells from the mRNA vaccine which make the vaccine spike protein more pathogenic and difficult to degrade or rid from the body?RC: Yes, there is a key structural difference in the vaccine type spike protein as compared to the wild type.1) There has been a deliberate substitution, inserting 2 proline residues at positions 986 and 987, w… Get full access to Staying Healthy Today at stayinghealthytoday.substack.com/subscribe

Highlights…AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE - DIET - The Most Important Lifestyle Factors for Autoimmune Disease. Lifestyle and Diet Have Played a Critical Role in Autoimmune Diseases. Zena le Roux, Epoch Times, 10/27/2026. “…The autoimmune protocol diet generally involves three phases. During the first phase, grains, legumes, nightshades, nuts, seeds, dairy, eggs, coffee, and alcohol are completely removed. The diet also avoids refined sugars, oils, processed foods, food additives, artificial colors, and flavorings.Patients are encouraged to eat nutrient-dense whole foods, including vegetables, fruits, tubers, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, wild game, poultry, organ meats, and other unprocessed meats. The elimination phase can last from six weeks to six months...”Kirk’s Comment…This title and the two above paragraphs caught my attention “… Lifestyle and Diet Have Played a Critical Role in Autoimmune Diseases…”. Autoimmune disease are when the body’s immune system starts attacking its own tissues. There are more than 80 types of autoimmune diseases. Common Examples…* Rheumatoid Arthritis: Attacks the joints, causing pain and swelling.* Type 1 Diabetes: Destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.* Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus): Can damage the skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs.* Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Attacks the thyroid gland, leading to an underactive thyroid.* Multiple Sclerosis: Attacks the central nervous system.Common Symptoms…Symptoms vary widely depending on the body part affected, but often include:* Chronic fatigue or low energy* Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling* Skin rashes or changes* Low-grade fevers or general malaise Causes and Risk Factors…The exact cause of autoimmune diseases are unknown but they typically develop from a mix of genetics and environmental triggers. * Genetics: They often run in families.* Sex: Women are affected much more frequently than men (roughly 80% of cases).* Triggers: Viral infections, smoking, or exposure to certain chemicals can spark the condition in people who are genetically vulnerable.* Covid 19 mRNA vaccine 1) Autoimmune Disorders and Covid-19 Vaccines, Claudia Chaufan, MD, PhD, AIMS Medical Sciences, 2025 (print) 2) Autoimmune Disease, Inflammation and Covid-19 Genetic Injection (Vaccines), Panagis Polykretis, PhD Autoimmunity, 2023* Foods (as above)* Environment Factors: such as mold, metals and chemicals* Altered Gut Bacteria* Serious StressLab Diagnosis…Anti-Nuclear Antibody Titers…Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are directed specifically against the nucleus of your own cells. The nucleus acts as the “control center” of a cell and contains your DNA, genetic material, and crucial proteins. When your immune system mistakenly produces antinuclear antibodies, these proteins target those vital structures inside the cell nucleus.The Pattern…An Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) test looks for auto-antibodies that mistakenly target the nucleus (the command center) of your body’s cells. When a test is positive, the laboratory looks at the cells under a microscope to see the ANA pattern, which describes how and where the antibodies stick to the cell. Ex. “Homogeneous” or “Speckled”. The pattern tells your doctor which specific proteins inside the cell are being targeted, which helps them determine what type of autoimmune disease (syndrome) it might be.Auto-antibodies can occur to specific endocrine organs like in Autoimmune Thyroiditis (Grave’s Disease too much thyroid or Hashimoto’s” to little thyroid)____________________________________________Diet and Lifestyle Can Help - “Big Time”…Upon reading the article the diet mentioned above is almost what I recommend every new patient do initially (autoimmune disease or not), for whatever complaint for a couple of weeks to see if they have some improvement in the multiple symptoms people come into the office with. Some type of pain, a version of fatigue, mental fog, GI complaint (bloating, gas, BM issues) are at the top of the symptoms list usually. My initial “BED Diet” (Basic Elimination Diet) is the same but allows for raw nuts and seeds except peanuts and just gets rid of wheat products and oats as grains but allows for quinoa and rice. But sometimes I will even cut out those grains temporarily. And then the second important part is cutting out coffee, alcohol, refined sugars, processed oils, food additives, artificial colors, and flavorings and just eating whole foods (meaning just eat “1” ingredient foods!). If this diet doesn’t cause some improvement I might also cut out all animal products for another two weeks and do a whole food vegan version of the BED Diet. Or sometimes I will use Prolon the five day fasting mimicking diet program that is wheat free and free of animal products. While I think the diet above is a great idea to implement in patients with autoimmune disease, it will also reduce all kinds of common complaints, pains and “itides” seen commonly in a doctor’s office.A diet (BED) trial of above for 2-4 weeks would change a lot of lives… And with attentive reintroduction of the most commonly eaten foods first the “offending” foods can be found and avoided resulting in saving literally thousands of dollars from needless doctor visits, testing, medications and excess supplements…not to mentioning human suffering as well.Additional Autoimmune Approaches That Can Help…Movement - some type of movement that doesn’t hurt can enhance healing in autoimmune illness. Gentle yoga, Tai Chi or Qigong to start. Later adding aerobics and strength training. Supplements - You could have a “laundry list” but I would start with normalizing vitamin D/K (5000-10,000 IU/100-200 mcg), 1-2 gms of omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium glycinate 300-400 mg/d and possibly curcumin 2 gms/d, favorite probiotic and/or colostrum product.Deep Breathing - There are many breathing techniques. I came across Andrew Weil, MD’s simple breathing method for anxiety and stress. The 4-7-8 breathing technique. Breath in through the nose for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds and breath out though your mouth firmly 8 seconds and repeat 3 more times (total of four) and do this twice daily. Should notice more remarkable change in a month. Environmental Triggers - Mold can be a significant autoimmune trigger. (See Survivingmold.com)References:1) Effects of the Mediterranean diet on inflammation, quality of life, and mortality in autoimmune diseases: A systematic review featured in the Italian National Guidelines “La Dieta Mediterranea”2) Autoimmune protocol diet: A personalized elimination diet for patients with autoimmune diseases.3) Effect of gluten-free diet on autoimmune thyroiditis progression in patients with no symptoms or histology of celiac disease: a meta-analysis.4) Higher circulating vitamin B12 is associated with lower levels of inflammatory markers in individuals at high cardiovascular risk and in naturally aged mice.5) Environment, Lifestyles, and Climate Change: The Many Nongenetic Contributors to The Long and Winding Road to Autoimmune Diseases.6) Leaky Gut: One of the Most Mysterious Diseases, Can It Be Prevented?7) Adherence to the Mediterranean diet can beneficially affect the gut microbiota composition: a systematic review.8) Mechanisms of environmental risk factors for autoimmune diseases.9) Association Between Gut Microbiota and Autoimmune Thyroid Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.10) Vitamin D supplementation reduces thyroid peroxidase antibody levels in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease: An open-labeled randomized controlled trial. Indian J Endocrinol Metab (2016) 20(3):391–8.11) Effect of vitamin D3 supplementation on systemic inflammation and disease-specific markers in patients with autoimmune diseases: a comprehensive meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.12) Celiac disease and the thyroid: highlighting the roles of vitamin D and iron. Nutrients (2021) 13(6):1755.13) How to Harness Vagus Nerve Power to Counter Common Autoimmune Diseases Deep breathing and device-based… Get full access to Staying Healthy Today at stayinghealthytoday.substack.com/subscribe

Richard B. Kreider, PhD, Professor Director, Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab and Clinical Core Service Center Department of Kinesiology & Sport ManagementTexas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843Tel. 979.458.1498 │ Fax. [email protected]“Effects of creatine supplementation with and without exercise and diet intervention on body composition, cognitive function, and markers of health in middle-aged and older adults.” J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2026 Aug 21;23(sup1):2716273. (10/2026)Interview SummaryDr. Kreider’s Backround…Richard B. Kreider, PhD, has spent approximately 40 years as a professor researching the effects of exercise and nutrition on health, athletic performance, disease, and rehabilitation. He and his colleagues have studied creatine for more than 30 years.Creatine Monohydrate…In this interview, he explains why creatine monohydrate remains the best-supported form of creatine (mentions creatine from German manufacturing being of high quality), noting that most clinical trials have used it and that alternative forms have not demonstrated superior benefits. He recommends 10 grams daily for older adults, typically divided into two 5-gram doses. Sometimes he will recommend a loading dose of 5 grams four times a day for a week otherwise it may take a month at the 10 gram per day dose to see the physiological effects of the creatinine. Creatine’s Mechanisms of Action…He describes several potential mechanisms through which creatine may benefit muscle, including improving cellular energy availability, supporting greater exercise capacity, and promoting protein synthesis through cellular hydration. He also discusses creatine’s potential role in brain energy metabolism, antioxidant activity, and the preservation of bone mineral content, particularly when combined with resistance training.The Study…The featured study investigated whether creatine supplementation could benefit middle-aged and older adults, including those who did not participate in a structured exercise program. Participants followed a calorie-restricted diet intended to reduce daily intake by approximately 300–500 calories. They were divided into four groups: placebo without structured exercise, creatine without structured exercise, placebo with exercise, and creatine with exercise. The creatine groups received 10 grams daily for 12 weeks. The dietary guidance emphasized reducing calories, particularly from fat, eating whole foods, and maintaining adequate protein and carbohydrate intake. The researchers evaluated body composition, cognitive performance, blood chemistry, cardiovascular-related health markers, glucose management, physical activity, sleep, and quality of life. Dr. Kreider reported improvements in blood lipids and HbA1c, as well as cognitive performance and some measures of body composition. Exercise generally produced stronger and more consistent benefits, but one of the surprising findings was an increase in muscle mass among participants taking creatine even without structured exercise. The researchers did not observe a substantial change in bone health during the relatively short 12-week study.Benefits Beyond Athletic Performance…Dr. Kreider emphasizes that creatine’s potential applications extend well beyond athletic performance to healthy aging, physical function, and cognitive health. He describes creatine monohydrate as an inexpensive, extensively studied supplement and reports that large reviews of clinical trials have not supported common concerns about dehydration, muscle cramping, or adverse effects on the kidneys in the studied populations. He notes that creatine can increase blood creatinine, which may affect creatinine-based estimates of kidney function and should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Future research interests include combining creatine with other nutritional interventions, investigating its effects on the gut and microbiome, and studying ways to preserve muscle during weight loss, including weight loss associated with GLP-1 medications. His overall message is that middle-aged and older adults may benefit from combining appropriate nutrition, creatine, and regular physical activity, especially resistance training—to help maintain physical function and quality of life as they age.Interview Questions and AnswersKirk Hamilton: Can you please share with me your educational background and current position?Richard Kreider: I began as a college football player at Liberty University, where I became interested in weightlifting, resistance training, nutrition, and performance enhancement. I initially studied physical education because I wanted to become a strength coach. During my master’s degree, a professor encouraged me to pursue research because I could make a broader impact by studying exercise and nutrition. I have now been a professor for approximately 40 years. At Texas A&M University, I direct the Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab and Clinical Core Service Center. My research focuses on exercise and nutrition in relation to health, performance, disease, and rehabilitation. My colleagues and I have studied creatine for more than 30 years, and I continue to lift weights, exercise, and take creatine daily.KH: What got you interested in studying creatine supplementation in adults between 45 and 65, with and without exercise?RK: I wanted to investigate whether creatine could help middle-aged and older adults maintain muscle mass, improve cognitive function, and obtain better results from exercise. Most creatine studies had focused on younger people and athletes, particularly those participating in resistance training. However, as people age, they tend to lose muscle mass, gain body fat, and experience declines in cognitive function. Many older adults also need to lose weight, but calorie restriction can cause them to lose muscle along with fat. I wanted to determine whether taking 10 grams of creatine daily could help preserve or increase muscle mass during weight loss and whether it could provide cognitive benefits even without a structured exercise program.KH: How does creatine affect lean body mass? What are the proposed mechanisms of action?RK: Creatine increases energy availability in muscle. When people exercise, this can enable them to perform more work, and the workload placed on the muscle is an important stimulus for muscle protein synthesis and growth. Creatine also increases intracellular hydration, which may stimulate protein synthesis. When someone takes creatine while resistance training, the person may be able to perform more work and achieve better training adaptations. In someone who is not following a structured exercise program, increased energy and physical capacity may encourage greater daily activity. Our study found that muscle mass increased even in participants who were not training, which was one of our surprising findings. The gains are not simply water; the research also supports increases in muscle tissue and protein.KH: How does creatine supplementation affect cognition? What are the proposed mechanisms of action?RK: Creatine helps provide energy to the brain through the phosphocreatine system. When brain phosphocreatine levels are low, cognitive capacity can be reduced. Aging, fatigue, injury, and inadequate oxygen availability can affect energy availability in the brain. Approximately 20% of the creatine consumed is absorbed across the blood-brain barrier, which is one reason we investigated a higher daily intake of 10 grams.I believe improving brain energy availability is an important potential benefit of creatine. We also see evidence of mild antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may provide additional support. In our study, participants taking creatine demonstrated improvements in cognitive testing, including those who were not following a structured exercise program. The exercise groups generally had stronger and more consistent findings. We are also investigating whether combi… Get full access to Staying Healthy Today at stayinghealthytoday.substack.com/subscribe

A 30% Ascorbic Acid Solution in DMSO Reduced the Need for Surgery in 94% of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Situ Patients Briant Burke, MD, MSMedical Director Boise Research Foundation 967 E. Parkcenter Blvd, Ste 205(208) [email protected]“Topical 30% Ascorbic Acid in Dimethyl Sulfoxide for the Treatment of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma In Situ.” medRxiv 2025.10.13.25337920 (PDF)(10/2026)Interview Summary…Dr. Briant Burke described a longstanding interest in integrative medicine, natural products, and research, rooted in his background in neuroscience and molecular biology and influenced by his mother’s experience with cancer. He said he believes potentially useful treatments should not be dismissed simply because they are natural or considered unconventional, particularly because such approaches may be low-tech, inexpensive, and safe. Vitamin C & DMSO as A Skin Cancer Treatment…His interest in topical vitamin C and DMSO developed from an earlier experience treating basal cell carcinoma. After finding an older study using concentrated vitamin C as a paste that required lengthy treatment, he looked for a way to improve penetration and considered DMSO. After seeing apparent success in several individuals, he extended the approach to squamous cell carcinoma in situ. Burke explained that the proposed mechanism involves high local concentrations of vitamin C producing hydrogen peroxide in the tumor environment. Cancer cells may be less able than normal cells to defend against hydrogen peroxide because they have lower levels of catalase, the enzyme that breaks down hydrogen peroxide. He explained that DMSO acts primarily as a carrier by penetrating the outer skin barrier and loosening the connections between the lipid and protein layers, while also appearing to have anti-inflammatory activity but no apparent anticancer activity by itself.Squamous Cell Cancer in Situ Vitamin C and DMSO Study…The squamous cell carcinoma study was an open-label trial conducted through a network of dermatology clinics associated with an osteopathic school in Alabama. Seventeen people participated, with some having multiple lesions. Participants applied the 30% ascorbic acid/DMSO solution twice daily, using a small brush to moisten the entire lesion, and were evaluated at two weeks and one, two, and three months. Burke said the three-month period was selected to provide enough time for lesions to shrink rather than prematurely classifying patients as treatment failures. The treatment was generally well tolerated; one patient developed a brisk surrounding inflammatory reaction and was instructed to stop temporarily. Almost everyone experienced at least a 70% reduction in lesion size, and the study reported that 94% avoided surgical excision, although some patients still had residual atypical cells or required additional treatment, often freezing rather than surgery. Burke said he was surprised that some lesions contained actinic atypia after the cancer had been reduced or eliminated, and this remains something he is trying to understand. His continuing goal is to develop an approach that could allow patients to apply the treatment at home until the lesion becomes completely normal skin. He also discussed future research through the Boise Research Foundation, including work on reducing chemotherapy-related heart toxicity and a proposed controlled study of fibrocystic breast disorder.Interview Q&A…Kirk Hamilton: Can you please share with me your educational background and current position?Briant Burke: I received my undergraduate degree in biology, earned an M.S. in molecular biology from Yale University, and received my M.D. from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. I am currently the medical director and founder of the Boise Research Foundation in Boise, Idaho.KH: What got you interested in studying topical vitamin C in a DMSO carrier to treat squamous cell carcinoma lesions in situ?BB: My office manager had a basal cell carcinoma on her face and did not want another large excisional biopsy because of the scar from a previous skin cancer procedure. I came across a Hungarian study using concentrated vitamin C as a paste but the treatment took about five months. I thought the treatment needed better penetration and a trial of DMSO with the vitamin C seemed logical. After the vitamin C and DMSO were applied to her lesion it dissolved away in approximately two or three weeks. A couple of other personal acquaintances subsequently had similar problems, so I tried the approach again and it appeared to work. I then extended the approach to squamous cell carcinoma.KH: What got you interested in integrative medicine and less invasive approaches to treatment?BB: My interest in integrative medicine is longstanding. I believe the important distinction in medicine is between what works and what does not, rather than between mainstream and natural approaches. I believe natural approaches deserve closer examination because they may be low-tech, inexpensive, and safe and could have wide applicability in primary care.KH: Where did your interest in research come from?BB: I started out in research, with a primary interest in neuroscience. While working at the medical school at Yale, my mentor encouraged me to attend medical school. My mother’s experience battling cancer also shifted my perspective. After medical school, I chose family practice because I liked the variety of problems and patients.KH: Where did your interest in natural products and plants come from?BB: It came from a love of plants and a fundamental belief that healing properties exist in the natural world and in plants and that researchers have to look for them. He pointed out that traditional medicine has a long history of finding pharmaceuticals from plants.KH: How did your early work with natural treatments develop?BB: When my daughter developed Molluscum Contagiosum I wanted to find something less traumatic than freezing or blistering agents for a four-year-old. I experimented with formulas, and a tea tree oil and iodine treatment worked for her. I put the information on the internet, which generated interest from other parents. I later developed other research projects from observations and problems encountered in my medical practice, including menstrual migraine.KH: What was the original experience that led you to investigate vitamin C and DMSO for skin cancer?BB: An old study from Hungary used concentrated ascorbic acid as a paste under a bandage for approximately 10 hours a day, and treatment took five months. This is not clinically practical, so I looked for a way to improve penetration. I tried DMSO with vitamin C, and the treatment appeared to work on a basal cell lesion. I subsequently tried it in additional individuals and then moved on to squamous cell carcinoma.KH: What are the proposed mechanisms of how the topical vitamin C and DMSO solution works?BB: The current thinking is that topical vitamin C penetrates the outer skin layers and reaches the tumor cells at a very high local concentration. The vitamin C may produce hydrogen peroxide locally. One hypothesis for why cancer cells are affected more than normal cells is that cancer cells are less able to defend themselves against hydrogen peroxide because they have lower levels of catalase. Catalase is the enzyme that deactivates peroxide, and normal cells are better able to defend against it.KH: Why did you choose a 30% concentration of ascorbic acid?BB: He said 30% is about the maximum concentration that can be obtained in water.KH: Does DMSO have any anti-cancer properties, or is it primarily a carrier for vitamin C?BB: DMSO does not appear to have any anticancer activity by itself. It does appear to have anti-inflammatory activity. DMSO is a good organic solvent that can penetrate the fatty layer of the outer skin and loosen the connections between the layers, helping substances pass through the skin barrier.KH: Does DMSO do… Get full access to Staying Healthy Today at stayinghealthytoday.substack.com/subscribe

Highlights…CANCER - COVID INFECTION - POST COVID VACCINATION - CANCER SIGNALS - Kuperwasser C., El-Deiry W. S. COVID vaccination and post-infection cancer signals: Evaluating patterns and potential biological mechanisms. Oncotarget. 2026; 17: 1-29. Retrieved from https://www.oncotarget.com/article/28824/ “…The collective world-wide evidence from 2020–2025 underscores a biologically plausible connection between COVID-19 vaccination and cancer. The recurring clinical findings documented across many reports of de-novo cancer onset, rapid tumor progression, viral reactivation, and reawakening of dormant disease, highlight critical gaps in knowledge and understanding of how large-scale immune changes produced by the vaccine interacts with cancer biology…”Both SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination engage overlapping biological pathways that could, in principle, influence cancer risk, yet they differ in mechanism, magnitude, biodistribution, and duration of their effects.CANCER - IV VITAMIN C - Intravenous Vitamin C. An orange in a bag. Paul Marik, MD, Cancer & Metabolic Healing Sep 07, 2026. ”…At pharmacologic concentrations, IV vitamin C may act through several mechanisms:1. Pro-oxidant cytotoxicity* High-dose ascorbate generates hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in the tumor microenvironment* Cancer cells are relatively deficient in catalase → selective vulnerability* Normal cells neutralize peroxide more efficiently2. Metabolic stress* Disrupts glycolysis and mitochondrial metabolism* Particularly relevant for tumors with Warburg metabolism and redox fragility3. Epigenetic regulation* Cofactor for TET dioxygenases → DNA demethylation* Potential re-expression of tumor suppressor genes* Especially relevant in hematologic malignancies with epigenetic dysregulation4. Hypoxia and angiogenesis modulation* Down-regulation of HIF-1α* Reduced VEGF signaling and tumor adaptation to hypoxia…”CANCER - mRNA VACCINE - INCREASE - STUDY FINDS mRNA “VACCINES” COULD INDUCE OR ACCELERATE CANCER VIA 35 DISTINCT MECHANISMS. The most comprehensive analysis to date examining the link between mRNA “vaccines” and cancer identifies convergent mechanistic, clinical, and population-level evidence of turbo cancer. Nicolas Hulscher, MPH, Focal Points, Sep 03, 2026.”…Cancer is rising at an increasingly alarming pace. Early-onset malignancies are climbing in younger adults, aggressive cancers are appearing in patients with little warning, and U.S. cancer mortality has departed sharply from its pre-pandemic trajectory…” “Potential Oncogenicity of Synthetic mRNA Vaccines: Convergent Mechanistic, Clinical, and Population Evidence for a Concurrent-Hit Model of Accelerated Malignancy” PDF EUTHANASIA - CANCER - MAID PROGRAM - CANADA - Canada offers cancer patients euthanasia (MAID) before they even see an Oncologist. William Makis, MD, Makis Health, September 22, 2026.FLU - FLU SHOT - MRNA VACCINE - BREAKING: Our FDA Data Reanalysis Demanding Market Withdrawal of Moderna’s mRNA Flu Shot Is Now PEER-REVIEWED and PUBLISHED. The FDA’s own clinical data now sit in the peer-reviewed record showing a 155% higher risk of unexplained death, a 515% higher risk of disabling reactions, and an EXTREME risk-benefit imbalance. Nicolas Hulscher, MPH, Focal Points, Sep 21, 2026.NATTOKINASE - ARTERIOSCLEROSIS - BLOOD CLOTS - MICROCLOTS - SPIKE PROTEIN - Nattokinase Breaks Down Spike Protein, Amyloid Microclots, Blood Clots, and Shrinks Arterial Plaque. We assembled decades of evidence to uncover the powerful multi-target effects of nattokinase. Nicolas Hulscher, MPH, Focal Points, Sep 22, 2026. 1) “Proteolytic Targets and Clinical Benefits of Oral Nattokinase: Spike Protein and Amyloid Degradation, Fibrinolysis, and Cardiovascular Risk Reduction.”Nutrition, Prevention and Integrative Medicine…AGING - STRENGTH TRAINING - What Happens to Your Body When You Do Strength Training Regularly. Up to 50 percent of muscle mass is lost by age 80, but you can reverse it. Epoch Times, By Mercura Wang, September 05, 2026.1) Stronger Muscles - Effects of strength training on neuromuscular adaptations in the development of maximal strength: a systematic review and meta-analysis.2) Longer Life - Long-term resistance training with all-cause and cause-specific mortality: assessing dose-response and joint associations with aerobic physical activity.3. Healthier Body Composition and Metabolism - Resistance training is medicine: effects of strength training on health.4. Stronger Bones - Optimal resistance training parameters for improving bone mineral density in postmenopausal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.5. Chronic Disease Risk Reduction:Alzheimer’s disease - Association of Muscle Strength With the Risk of Alzheimer Disease and the Rate of Cognitive Decline in Community-Dwelling Older Persons.6. Type 2 Diabetes - Resistance training is medicine: effects of strength training on health.7. Cardiovascular Disease - Resistance training is medicine: effects of strength training on health.8. Obesity - Moderators of Resistance Training Effects in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.9. Chronic Lower Back Pain - Does resistance training improve pain intensity, quality of life, and disability in people with chronic nonspecific low back pain? A systematic review and meta-analysis.7. Arthritis - The Effects of Resistance Training on Pain, Strength, and Function in Osteoarthritis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.8. Better Mental Health and Sleep - Resistance training and combined resistance and aerobic training as a treatment of depression and anxiety symptoms in young people: A systematic review and meta-analysis.9. Supports Immune Function - Effects of Community-based Exercise Prehabilitation for Patients Scheduled for Colorectal Surgery With High Risk for Postoperative Complications: Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial.10. Supports Cancer Treatment Recovery - Effects of Community-based Exercise Prehabilitation for Patients Scheduled for Colorectal Surgery With High Risk for Postoperative Complications: Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial. ATHEROSCLEROSIS - CORONARY ATHEROSCLEROSIS - VITAMIN D - VITAMIN K - Vitamin K2 and D3 Supplementation in Patients With Severe Coronary Artery Calcification: The DANCODE Trial. Circulation. 2026 Aug 28. SUMMARY: In a multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial, 398 participants with severe coronary artery calcification median age of 71 years in whom 30% were women with a coronary calcium score (CAC) from noncontrast cardiac computed tomography of ≥400 Agatston units (AU) [Median baseline CAC was 903 AU, and 44% had CAC ≥1000] were given vitamin K2 (720 μg/d) plus vitamin D3 (25 μg/d) or placebo for 24 months. The mean CAC increase was 196 AU with vitamin K2 and D3 and 248 AU with the placebo which is a mean group difference of -52 AU. In the 143 participants who underwent coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA which is a (CAC with contrast dye) there were a similar increase in total plaque volume and no change in noncalcified plaque volume between groups. COMMENTARY: There has always been a concern about giving vitamin D or calcium alone without vitamin K2 for fear that would increase calcified plaque in the arteries. In this study of individuals with severe coronary artery disease the vitamin K2 and vitamin D supplement group had a slowing of coronary artery calcification which is a good thing. Problem is that the study didn’t go out long enough to see if heart attacks or sudden death occurred less in the group slowing the hardening (calcification) of the arteries. What we also can’t learn from this study is that what would happen if there was a third group that give vitamin D alone, along with the vitamin D3 & vitamin K group and placebo. Then we could see the value of giving vitamin K along with vitamin D. That said, as usual, we could wait to carry out this same study or the one I just suggested for another 3-5 years to get clarit… Get full access to Staying Healthy Today at stayinghealthytoday.substack.com/subscribe

Rammohan Rao PhD, C-AP, RYTApollo Health, 855 Mahler RoadBurlingame, CA [email protected]; [email protected] 1.800.450.0805- Best-selling author “Good Living Practices-The best from Ayurveda, Yoga and Modern Science For Achieving Optimal Health, Happiness and Longevity.”“KetoFLEX 12/3 Diet and Cognitive Health: A Precision-Nutrition Perspective on Mechanisms, Emerging Evidence, and Future Directions.”Nutrients. 2026 Jul 7;18(13):2206.- Chief Scientist at Apollo Health which uses a precision-medicine, systems-based, multi-therapeutic approach to reverse Dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease.- Over 25+ years of research and teaching experience in Neuroscience and has published 70+ peer-reviewed papers in scientific journals, including chapters in several textbooks.- Board-Certified Ayurveda Practitioner, a Registered Yoga Teacher and teaches Ayurveda and Yoga at the California College of Ayurveda.Interview Summary…Rammohan Rao, PhD, C-AP, RYT, describes how his lifelong exposure to yoga and Ayurveda in India eventually developed into a career combining neuroscience, Ayurveda and yoga. He explains that yoga was part of his childhood education in India, while Ayurveda was incorporated into everyday life. Education in Neuroscience, Yoga and Ayruveda…After earning his PhD in neuroscience and completing postdoctoral work at the Mayo Clinic, Rao worked as a research associate professor of neuroscience at the Buck Institute, where he formally resumed yoga practice and eventually completed yoga teacher training and board certification. His introduction to Ayurveda came through an Ayurveda lecture at a yoga studio, followed by his wife’s consultation with Dr. Mark Halpin for an inflammatory condition. Rao says his wife received a comprehensive, individualized program involving diet, sleep, bowel regularity, daily routines, mindfulness, yoga, herbs and detoxification practices, and that her condition completely resolved within three months. He emphasizes that Ayurveda and yoga focus on body-mind integration, prevention and individualized care rather than a single treatment or pill. He describes dietary timing, adequate sleep, regular bowel movements, consistent routines and mindfulness as important components of his wife’s program, including a three-week plant-based khichdi diet consisting of rice, mung beans, vegetables and ghee, followed by gradual reintroduction of other foods. Dementia, Yoga and Exercise…In discussing dementia, Rao explains that yoga practices can be adapted for people with cognitive impairment by emphasizing balance, hip strength, standing postures, eye and ear exercises, neck and shoulder movements, breathing practices and mindfulness, while noting that earlier adoption may improve compliance before full-blown dementia develops. He connects physical exercise with brain health by describing the release of myokines from muscles and osteokines from bones, which he says can reach the brain and support beneficial brain activity. He defines mindfulness as focus, attention and awareness, particularly directing attention to the breath and developing periods of stillness. Dementia and Ayruveda…Rao also explains that fasting has a place in Ayurveda, including maintaining a 12-hour gap between the last meal of one day and the next day’s meal, while cautioning against fasting to the point of physical deterioration. He says Ayurvedic recommendations for dementia are individualized according to the person and the disease condition, and he describes dementia and neurodegenerative conditions as Vata-based within the Ayurvedic framework. He also identifies similarities between Ayurvedic and yoga practices and the Bredesen approach, including attention to diet, sleep, stress, mindfulness, brain stimulation and detoxification. Healthy Living and Dr. Rao’s Book…Finally, Rao discusses his book, Good Living Practices, explaining that it brings together physical, mental and emotional practices designed to integrate body, mind and emotions into what he calls “unfractionated living,” including mindfulness practices that can be incorporated into everyday activities such as eating and cooking.Interview Questions and AnswersKirk Hamilton: So the obvious question is, what came first, the neurosciences, the yoga or the Ayurveda? How did that happen?Rammohan Rao: Yoga and Ayurveda were an integral part of life in India. His parents introduced him to yoga poses, breathing practices and meditation, while Ayurveda was incorporated into everyday life through diet, spices and herbs. He later went into mainstream modern medicine, earned his PhD and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Mayo Clinic. After Dr. Dale Bredesen invited him to the Buck Institute, he began practicing yoga formally with his wife, eventually completing formal yoga training and certification. His introduction to Ayurveda came when a yoga class was canceled and the instructor encouraged him and his wife to attend an Ayurveda lecture by Dr. Mark Halpin. His wife’s experience with Ayurvedic care led him to formally study Ayurveda, eventually becoming board certified and beginning to teach Ayurveda in 2007.KH: Let me ask when you were in India, as a child and growing up, were you exposed to yoga?Did you do any?RR: Yes. In schools in India yoga was an elective course in addition to sports activities, and I was trained in yoga asanas. I had quite a good yoga practice as a child.KH: I’m ignorant. Do Ayurvedic principles comes from India?RR: Yes. Ayurveda was a mainstream system of medicine in India. It as a whole-person system of health concerned with maintaining balance between the body and mind. Ayurveda is approximately 6,000 or 7,000 years old and traditionally emphasized body-mind integration, addressing the mind as well as systems of the body.KH: On your wife’s healing, when you look back at it, what were the major changes that she did? In other words, you were already doing yoga, so you were moving energy in that way. But what were the major changes? Was it dietary? Was it herbal? What do you think made the big change in your wife’s health?RR: Ayurveda and yoga emphasize body-mind integration, prevention and individualized care. My wife’s program addressed nutrition, digestion, sleep, daily routines, physical activity, herbs, mindfulness, yoga asanas and detoxification. The approach began at the level of the gut because her condition involved inflammation. She received a dietary program, herbs to address her gut and inflammation, mindfulness and yoga practices, as well as detoxification procedures involving oil therapies, massage and transcranial therapies.KH: I know there was a lot to the program, but can you just say two or three of the main things that she had to change that really made a difference?RR: The major changes were diet, sleep and regular routines. Her diet was individualized and included conscious eating, specific grains and spices, eating at particular times, limiting snacks, maintaining three- to four-hour gaps between meals and having the largest meal around midday. She was instructed to have at least seven hours of sleep and to maintain regular routines involving waking, sleeping and bowel movements. She also practiced mindfulness and daily hygiene practices. It is important to emphasize that these three major changes were implemented without herbs as part of the changes I was describing.KH: What else would you do to have a bowel movement? You just can’t say, I’m going to have a bowel movement now. Is it about timing, sitting down every day? In other words, you change your diet and your bowel movements occur?RR: For people having bowel-movement problems, I recommends a diet containing probiotics, prebiotics and fiber. Consume lots of raw vegetables containing substantial fiber and if necessary, fiber-based supplements can be used. I prefer dietary approaches rather than prolonged use of fiber-based medications such as Senna or Cascara. I also describ… Get full access to Staying Healthy Today at stayinghealthytoday.substack.com/subscribe

Fasting, Famine, Fertilizer & Fuel Shortages and Fatherhood… Former Green Beret, Special Forces and Combat CorrespondentMichael YonPO Box 66, Archer, FL 32618MichaelYon.Substack.com Michaelyon.com About - Mission - [email protected]@protonmail.comKirk Hamilton: How many days into this current fast are you?Michael Yon: I am on day 21 of my current fast. I do not have a specific end date in mind. My previous fast lasted 40 days. I will continue until I decide I have reached the end. Right now, I feel better than ever. I feel perfect, and I have zero hunger.KH: Why are you fasting?MY: I have fasted before, including a 40-day fast. This time, one of the main reasons I am fasting is that Masako and I are about to have a baby. I want Baby Bear to see me leading by example, just as my grandfather lead by example for me. I also want the health benefits, greater mental clarity, and the experience of fasting itself.KH. What do you experience physically, spiritually, and mentally while fasting?MY: I experience significant mental clarity and more opportunity to reflect. Fasting gives me more time to be quiet and think. I also experience a strong sense of well-being. I do podcasts and other things, but I enjoy simply sitting quietly while I fast.KH: How long have you been intentionally fasting?MY: I have been intentionally fasting for years. My previous prolonged fast lasted 40 days. Before that, I experience fasting in Special Forces, but those fasts are not intentional. They happen during training when we did not have enough food.KH: What does fasting mean to you and what do you consume while fasting?MY: For me, fasting means going without food. Water only. This time I have used salt only on one day. I have used to date about ten lemons, one juice of lemon squeezed in my water each day. It has helped with my dry mouth. During this fast, I do not experience hunger. I am essentially running on my body’s stored energy. I have enough body fat that I can continue functioning without eating.KH: What do you notice happening to your body during a prolonged fast?MY: I notice that I feel extremely good. I have had a strong limp since my Army days, and when I begin fasting some years ago, the limp simply disappeared. I did not do anything. It just went away and has stayed away. During this fast, I also have no hunger.KH: Is fasting difficult for you and how do you feel while doing it?MY: Right now, fasting is not difficult for me. I have zero hunger. During Special Forces training, fasting is completely different because we are working extremely hard and do not have enough body fat. We become incredibly hungry. Now, after 21 days without food, I experience a flatline on hunger.KH: What changes do you notice in your energy, clarity, pain, flexibility, or sleep while fasting?MY: I feel better than ever. I experience mental clarity and more opportunity to reflect. My previous experience with fasting also showed me that physical problems can change. My limp disappeared and it stayed away. I do not describe fasting as making me weak; I feel very good while doing it.KH: Do you monitor ketones during fasting?MY: I do not do any extensive medical monitoring during the fast. I know I am in ketosis because I have been without food for 21 days. I may get some KetoStix nearby. KH. How do you decide when to end the fast?MY: I do not have a specific end-state goal for this fast. With my previous 40-day fast, I simply kept going until I reach the point where I decided it was time to stop. I do not know exactly how long I will go this time.KH: How did you break the 40 day fast?MY: When I finish my previous 40-day fast, I start with coconut juice. I also eat betel leaves and a little shrimp. It was a wonderful experience to begin eating again after such a long fast.KH: Does fasting gives you spiritual or philosophical insights?MY: Definitely. There is a reason many people fast for religious reasons. Fasting gives me more opportunity to reflect. During my previous 40-day fast, I spent much of the time in an Airbnb overlooking the ocean in Okinawa. I sat quietly, fasting, and read old books, including Benjamin Franklin. I found that kind of silence very valuable.KH: Does fasting change the way you look at the larger world, including politics and world events?MY: Fasting gives me more opportunity to reflect and think about the big picture. I continue doing podcasts and talking about world events, but I also spend time sitting quietly. I use that time to think about routes, resources, war, famine, energy, food, and population movements.KH: What does Masako think about your fasting?MY: Masako is with me during the fast and we are preparing for the birth of “Baby Bear.” She is beginning to show signs that the baby is coming soon. She is resting while I am fasting, and we are both focused on becoming parents.KH: What is the specific purpose of this current fast?MY: The most important reason this time is Baby Bear. I want my child to see me leading by example. My grandfather quit smoking cold turkey when he had children because he did not want his children to see him smoke. He led by example rather than simply telling me what to do. That example stays with me. I want Baby Bear to see the same kind of example from me.KH: What else do you want people to understand about fasting?MY: I see fasting as something that gives me physical and mental benefits and allows me to reflect. I also recognize the importance of having enough stored energy. Strategic body fat is like money in the bank. If food becomes unavailable having some body fat gives me a reserve.KH: Do you believe there is evidence of an organized effort to reduce the world’s population?MY: I believe there is an organized global effort toward depopulation. I see control of routes, resources, food, energy, and other necessities as part of that process. I describe famine as one of the weapons that can ultimately contribute to population reduction. These are my views and my interpretation of the geopolitical situation.KH. What are your thoughts on famine, fertilizer shortages, and fuel shortages?MY: FAMINE: I believe we are heading into famine. I see strategic body fat as a reserve because, in a survival situation where food is unavailable, people with more stored energy can have an advantage. FERTILIZER: I have been talking about fertilizer shortages for years. I look at phosphate production and exports as strategically important because fertilizer is directly connected to food production. I believe restrictions and policies affecting farmers, fishermen, energy, and food production can decrease the available food supply. FUEL: I see fuel shortages as directly connected to famine and ultimately to population reduction. I believe cutting off energy contributes to famine and can create what I call HOP - “human osmotic pressure,” pushing people to migrate from areas where food, energy, or security are becoming scarce.KH: How do you feel about becoming a father and about Baby Bear?MY: I feel more joy than I have ever felt in my life. I feel like a father already, even though Baby Bear has not been born yet. Masako and I already feel like we are Mama Bear and Papa Bear. I am excited to meet my child, and I want to be there for the birth. I want Baby Bear to see me leading by example, just as my grandfather led by example for me.Gobal Depopulation, “HOP” Human Osmotic Pressure, Famine, Fertilizer and Fuel ShortagesKH: What is the evidence that there is a depopulation effort by some world forces?MY: I believed there is an “organized global depopulation” effort involving cutting off of routes and resources.I believe wars involve routes, resources and ideology. The controlling or cutting of transportation routes, energy supplies and other resources could create food shortages resulting in “human osmotic pressure” or “HOP” that will lead to mass migration of populations to other countries. I’m including the Strait of Hormuz, Bab-… Get full access to Staying Healthy Today at stayinghealthytoday.substack.com/subscribe

Improving Dementia Due to Alzheimer’s Disease with the Ketoflex 12/3 Dietary Approach. What is It and How Do You Do It? Rammohan Rao PhD, C-AP, RYTApollo Health, 855 Mahler RoadBurlingame, CA [email protected]; [email protected] KetoFlex 12/3 Diet Plan1.800.450.0805“KetoFLEX 12/3 Diet and Cognitive Health: A Precision-Nutrition Perspective on Mechanisms, Emerging Evidence, and Future Directions.”Nutrients. 2026 Jul 7;18(13):2206.- Chief Scientist at Apollo Health which uses a precision-medicine, systems-based, multi-therapeutic approach to reverse Dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease.- Over 25+ years of research and teaching experience in Neuroscience and has published 70+ peer-reviewed papers in scientific journals, including chapters in several textbooks.- Board-Certified Ayurveda Practitioner, a Registered Yoga Teacher and teaches Ayurveda and Yoga at the California College of Ayurveda.- Best-selling author “Good Living Practices-The best from Ayurveda, Yoga and Modern Science For Achieving Optimal Health, Happiness and Longevity.”Interview Questions and Answers…Kirk Hamilton: Thank you for coming on the show. Can you tell us about your educational background and how you came to combine neuroscience with Ayurveda and yoga? What got you interested in the connection between diet and cognitive health?Rammohan Rao: After completing my PhD in neuroscience in India in 1992, I came to the United States for a postdoctoral fellowship at Mayo Clinic. I worked there for about five years on various aspects of the brain, including neurotransmitters, memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease.In 1999, I joined Dr. Dale Bredesen at the Buck Institute as a Research Associate Professor of Neuroscience. We studied Alzheimer’s disease using fly, worm, mouse and rat models and investigated the mechanisms involved in the disease.My interest in yoga began while I was working at the Buck Institute. I practiced yoga in the evenings and eventually completed teacher training and became certified. In the early 2000s, my wife had a chronic health condition and was interested in Ayurveda. That led me to the California College of Ayurveda, where I completed a four-and-a-half-year program followed by a six-month internship. In 2008, Dr. Halpern invited me to join the faculty, and I have taught Ayurveda and yoga there since then.KH: How did your Ayurvedic background influence the KetoFlex approach?RR: In Ayurveda, one of the first principles students learn is that chronic conditions should be addressed through the gut. The gut is given a great deal of importance.The KetoFlex Diet evolved from the observation that cognitive decline involves multiple biological problems, including insulin resistance, impaired neuronal fuel availability, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, vascular issues, nutritional deficiencies, impaired cellular housekeeping and impaired trash-removal mechanisms.The diet is intended to influence these mechanisms simultaneously rather than simply produce ketones. Nutrition is one part of a larger multi-modal or multi-therapeutic intervention to prevent or treat cognitive decline.KH: What exactly does KetoFlex 12/3 mean?RR: “Keto” refers to ketosis—the ability to use fat as a source of fuel. The brain and heart can switch between sugar and fat as sources of energy. One of the striking features of Alzheimer’s disease is that the brain becomes less efficient at using glucose as fuel.“Flex” refers to metabolic flexibility—the ability of the brain to move efficiently between glucose and fat-derived fuels.The “12” refers to a minimum fasting period of 12 hours between the last meal of the day and the next morning’s meal. Around the 12- to 14-hour fasting window, the brain begins switching toward fat metabolism and producing ketone bodies.One of those ketones is beta-hydroxybutyrate, or BHB. BHB is known to induce neuroplasticity, reduce inflammation and trigger the release of BDNF, or brain-derived neurotrophic factor. It helps strengthen and nourish the brain.KH: Do people need to measure their ketones every morning if they are following the 12- to 14-hour fasting schedule?RR: For people who don’t experience memory loss, historical studies show that a 12- to 14-hour fast triggers the release of ketone bodies, so there is generally no need to measure them every day.If someone is doing the right things and still experiencing memory loss, then measuring ketone levels can be useful. In some people, the levels may not be sufficient to trigger the desired benefits, and they may need to fast for a little longer.There are devices that measure acetone in the breath and BHB in the blood. Devices such as Precision Xtra and Keto-Mojo can measure both glucose and ketone bodies. These can provide objective feedback, but I would not call measurement an absolute requirement for everybody. The broader goal is metabolic health and metabolic flexibility—not simply chasing a ketone reading.KH: Why is the three-hour period before bedtime important?RR: The “3” refers to stopping food at least three hours before bedtime. Circadian rhythms play an important role, and there is constant communication between the brain and the gut.For people who have glucose problems or memory loss, late-night eating without a three-hour gap can keep glucose and insulin elevated at a time when the body is preparing for sleep. Finishing food at least three hours before bedtime extends the fasting window, reduces late postprandial glucose exposure and helps synchronize metabolism with sleep and circadian rhythms.KH: What happens in the brain during sleep that makes sleep so important for cognitive function?RR: Sleep is a very active physiological period. During deep sleep, the lymphatic system associated with the cerebrospinal fluid system becomes active and helps remove dead cells and toxic material that has accumulated in the brain.Sleep also helps remove information that is considered “noise,” making room for better synaptic connections. Memory consolidation occurs during sleep, allowing important information to be stored and consolidated.Another important process is neuroplasticity. During sleep, the brain is rewired and new neuronal branches become stronger, improving connections between neurons. That is why good-quality and adequate sleep are so important.KH: What happens when someone eats too close to bedtime?RR: When you go to sleep with a heavy stomach, digestion is still occurring. Sleep can be disrupted, and the N3 and REM stages can become disrupted.When sleep is disrupted, memory consolidation is affected, “trash” removal from the brain is affected and the removal of unnecessary information is affected. These processes can accumulate over time when sleep habits are not appropriate.KH: Let’s talk about fats and animal foods. Is KetoFlex a high-animal-fat ketogenic diet?RR: The concern about saturated animal fat is legitimate. But the KetoFlex Diet recommended at Apollo Health is not based on large amounts of saturated animal fat. The predominant fats we emphasize are unsaturated fats.We emphasize omega-3 sources, high-polyphenol olive oil, avocado, nuts and seeds. We are not talking about butter, cream, highly processed meat or large quantities of saturated animal fat.Think about KetoFlex as a plant-rich keto diet and not a “bacon-and-butter” keto diet.KH: What kinds of seafood, poultry and meat do you recommend?RR: Seafood is definitely included. We recommend low-mercury, wild-caught seafood from the sea. We talk about “SMASH”—salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines and herring—because these are rich sources of EPA and DHA.We also recommend poultry and eggs, preferably pasture-raised, because of their choline, B12, folate and fat-soluble vitamin content.Red meat can be used moderately, such as approximately once a week. If someone wants to eat more, we recommend grass-fed, pasture-raised and minimally processed meat.KH: What about vegetables? What type should make up the fo… Get full access to Staying Healthy Today at stayinghealthytoday.substack.com/subscribe

Highlights…“One-Liner” Synopsis of the “Covid Story” Peter McCullough, MD’s One Liner’s on the history of the Covid-19 virus’s origins; Spike Protein creation and evolution; Covid-19 mRNA shots, development, distribution and harm; and Government, Big Pharma and Public Health (Bio-Pharmaceutical Complex) lack of action and perpetuation of the mRNA technology beyond Covid couldn’t be said more succinctly and powerfully than in these “One-Liners” by Dr. McCullough. Support The McCullough Foundation; Subscribe to Focal Points (Courageous Discourse); Read The Courage to Face Covid-19 : Preventing Hospitalizations and Death While Battling the Bio-Pharmaceutical Complex and Vaccines: Mythology, Ideology, and Reality. Also MUST READ for a more complete understanding of the spike protein (from the manmade virus and mRNA vaccines), “The Spike Protein Effect: Truth, Risks and Recovery.” (FREE Booklet critical to understanding the potential harm of the spike protein from the original infection and more so from the spike protein created by the mRNA Covid vaccine which is more problematic…and how you can test for it and reduce its negative health consequences)(Peter McCullough, MD) “…Never thought this could happen during my medical career: -US-Chinese collaboration creates novel coronavirus in Wuhan Institute of Virology-Virus is highly contagious, deadly for elderly and frail-Manipulated Spike protein retained in body causing organ damage, inflammation, autoimmunity, blood clots-World falls into fear-based trance with lockdowns, masking, social distancing, economic shutdown-Early treatment protocols are suppressed-Genetic code for deadly Spike protein is target of mRNA/adenoviral DNA mass vaccination, mandatory for school, jobs, travel-Synthetic mRNA, vaccine Spike persist in body for years causing disease and death-No government recognizes gravity of situation-No vaccine inspections, recalls, or safety analyses-Based on COVID-19 mRNA backbone, more genetic vaccines (RSV, influenza, cancer) rolled out with no way to shut them off once injected-Bio-Pharmaceutical Complex rolls on, rife with corruption, fraud, abuse, consuming trillions of dollars…”COVID 19 - mRNA VACCINE - PUBLIC SAFETY - UNITED KINGDOM - AN OPEN LETTER TO THE PRIME MINISTER, August 27, 2026. “Suspend mRNA vaccines pending independent safety testing.” (1st letter)Joint Letter From:CCVAC – Children’s Covid Vaccines Advisory CouncilHART – Health Advisory and Recovery TeamThe Perseus GroupUKMFA – UK Medical Freedom AllianceDoctors for Patients UKTo: The Right Honourable Andy Burnham, Prime MinisterDear Mr Burnham,See Link to Complete Letter (See link to 2nd letter below, August 28, 2026)”…Conclusions and Requests* The United Kingdom is at a turning point. You can either continue with the mistakes of your Tory and Labour predecessors, or you can turn a fresh page and commit your government to transparency and honesty with the British public.* We urge you to suspend the booster programme pending a full safety review. The booster regimens never underwent clinical trials. They were adopted ad hoc and self-evidently failed to stop viral circulation. The consequences of repeatedly inducing the vaccinee’s body to manufacture a potentially toxic protein in variable amounts for indefinite (but often prolonged) periods are unclear and likely harmful.* An immediate independent review is required into all aspects of Covid vaccine safety, as outlined in our letter to the MHRA[xx] now three years ago…”A second letter to our fifth Prime Minister August 28, 2026. “…Prime Minister (Andy Burnham), we are therefore asking you to answer two straightforward questions.* Will you support a full examination of evidence concerning Covid vaccine safety and efficacy that we believe has not been adequately addressed by the UK Covid-19 Inquiry? This must include excess mortality and increased long-term sickness since 2021.* Will you ensure that people who believe they have been seriously injured following Covid vaccination, and bereaved families who believe vaccination contributed to a death, have access to a credible system through which their cases can be properly investigated?…”Signatures to this letter to Prime Minister of the UK, Andy Burnham regarding Covid-19 Vaccine harm:* Dr Aseem Malhotra, MBChB, MRCP, Cardiologist* Dr Rosamond Jones, retired Consultant Paediatrician, Children’s Covid Vaccines Advisory Council* Dr Clare Craig, diagnostic pathologist, co-chair Health Advisory and Recovery Team* Dr Elizabeth Evans, retired doctor, CEO, UK Medical Freedom Alliance* Mr Nick Hunt, retired Civil Servant, MoD, Chairman, The Perseus Group* Dr Ayiesha Malik, General Practitioner, Executive Committee, Doctors for Patients UK* Professor Angus Dalgleish, MD, FRCP, FRACP, FRCPath, FMed Sci, Emeritus Professor of Oncology, City St Georges, University of London, Principal, Institute for Cancer Vaccines & Immunotherapy* Professor David Seedhouse, Honorary Professor of deliberative practice, School of Pharmacy, Aston University* Dr Alan Black, MBBS, MSc, DipPharmMed, retired pharmaceutical physician* Dr Alan Mordue, MBChB, FFPH. Retired Consultant in Public Health Medicine & Epidemiology* Dr Andrew McHutchon, MBChB, FRCA, retired Consultant Anaesthetist/Intensivist* Dr John Flack, BPharm, PhD, Retired Director of Safety Evaluation, Beecham Pharmaceuticals and Senior Vice-president for Drug Discovery SmithKline Beecham* Dr Henry Goodall, MBBS, FFOM, retired Consultant Occupational Health Physician, President of the Society of Occupational Medicine, 2011-12* Dr John Campbell, Nurse educator and broadcaster* Graham Phillips, BPharm, Dipp Comm Pharm, FRCPharm, Principal Pharmacist iheartpharmacy group, Founder of Prolongevity.co.uk* Dr Sabine Hazan, MD, Gastroenterologist* Molly Kingsley, writer and campaigner, cofounder UsForThem* John Vincent MBE, British restaurateur, entrepreneur and government food adviser* Gurinder Chadha OBE, Film Director* Dimitri Masceranas, England International Cricketer* Pat Cash, International tennis coach* Peter Fleming, Professional tennis player and sports commentator* Woody Harrelson, Actor* Rob Schneider, Actor & film maker RECTAL CANCER - DELAY IN CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT - BREAKING NEWS: 36 year old Toronto Model Jess Grossman, who reacted to her Pfizer COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine within 3 minutes, now has aggressive Stage 4 Rectal Cancer. William Makis, MD, Makis Health, Sep 01, 2026. Kirk’s Comment: Kirk’s CommentSuch an intensely sad story.Whether my original colon cancer, diagnosed on September 26, 2023, was caused or “spurred on” by my poor choice to get two Moderna vaccines in January and February 2021, I’ll never know. What I do know is that the cancer never spread, even though I delayed surgery until January 16, 2025.From September 26, 2023, to January 16, 2025, I gave my best shot at shrinking the tumor using multiple repurposed drugs—including ivermectin, fenbendazole, mebendazole and albendazole—along with short-term use of propranolol, metformin and Cialis. I also used an aggressive nutraceutical program, IV vitamin C, fasting and a low-glycemic diet.I didn’t do well with my attempt to follow a ketogenic diet. I was pretty skinny when I started and didn’t have a lot of fat to burn. To maintain a ketogenic state, I would have had to consume a lot of fat to provide enough fuel, or I risked having more muscle breakdown. I just couldn’t do it consistently.The tumor grew a little, but it did not metastasize or rupture my intestines when it was finally removed on January 16, 2025—16 months after my diagnosis. One of 22 lymph nodes was positive, and all 22 were removed. I decided not to undergo the recommended chemotherapy after surgery.Since then, I have stayed on a pretty aggressive nutrient program. I also took ivermectin and mebendazole and, over the last year, have taken only low-dose ivermectin approximately five days per week.I just had my third six-month CT scan of my pelvis and abdomen on August 23, 2026, and it was completely clear of cancer.My fi… Get full access to Staying Healthy Today at stayinghealthytoday.substack.com/subscribe

Judson Brandeis, MDBrandeis, MD – Male Rejuvenation Center100 Park Pl Ste 140San Ramon, CA 94583(925) 255-7867Global Men’s WellnessDr. Brandeis AI (Ask Any Question)brandeismd.com“Combining a Nitric Oxide Boosting Dietary Supplement With Sildenafil Improves Nighttime Erections More Than Sildenafil Alone,”The Journal of Sexual Medicine, Volume 22, Issue Supplement 4, November 2025 (8/2026)The 21st Century Man: Advise from 50 Top Doctors and Men’s Health Experts So You Can Feel Great, Look Good and Have Better Sex(AI generated summary of interview transcript reviewed and edited by interviewer Kirk Hamilton PA and approved by Judson Brandeis, MD)BACKGROUND: In this interview Kirk Hamilton PA interviews urologist Judson Brandeis, MD, about his study examining whether combining a nitric oxide-boosting dietary supplement (Affirm) with sildenafil improves nighttime erections more than sildenafil alone. Dr. Brandeis describes his background, beginning with his undergraduate education at Brown University and subsequent work with the American Red Cross, where he became interested in kidney transplantation. He attended Vanderbilt Medical School and conducted research at Harvard Medical School involving kidney transplantation and immune tolerance before completing general surgery and urology training at UCLA. Although he initially planned to become a kidney transplant surgeon, he ultimately pursued general urology and developed an interest in innovative approaches to men’s sexual and urologic health. He explains that his interest in nitric oxide and erectile function was influenced by his UCLA professors and by his experience treating men with low-intensity shockwave therapy. He became interested in boosting the body’s nitric oxide and eventually developed a supplement containing citrulline, beet extract, Panax ginseng, and muira puama. According to Dr. Brandeis, the rationale was to support the biological process involved in blood-vessel dilation and erectile function. He also explains that some of his older patients reported improvements in mental sharpness while taking the supplement, which prompted him to investigate and develop the product further.NITRIC OXIDE BOOSTERS AND PDE5 INHIBITOR SYNERGY: A major portion of the interview focuses on the relationship between nitric oxide, blood vessels, and PDE5 inhibitors such as sildenafil. Dr. Brandeis explains that nitric oxide contributes to the production of cyclic GMP (cGMP, or cyclic guanosine monophosphate), which participates in the process that opens blood vessels, while PDE5 inhibitors such as sildenafil prevent the breakdown of cGMP, allowing the signal to persist. He describes nitric oxide as being obtained through dietary pathways involving citrulline and foods containing nitrates, including beets and green leafy vegetables. ENDOTHELIAL FUNCTION: He also discusses the endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels, and the glycocalyx, which he describes as a protective structure over the endothelial cells.NIGHTTIME ERECTIONS AND SLEEP: The conversation then turns to nighttime erections and why they can provide a more objective way of evaluating erectile function. Dr. Brandeis explains that erections normally occur during REM sleep and that declining nighttime erections can be an early indication of reduced penile blood flow as men age. He describes the use of a device called the “tech ring,” which is worn around the penis during sleep and communicates with a phone through Bluetooth to measure changes associated with erections. He notes that this provides a more objective measurement than subjective erectile-function questionnaires, which can be influenced by circumstances, stress, relationships, sleep, and other factors. He also emphasizes the importance of sleep and describes his observation that dietary intake before sleep can affect nighttime erectile measurements.THE STUDY: The study itself is presented as the next step in Dr. Brandeis’s earlier investigation of the nitric oxide-boosting supplement. He explains that the initial part of the study used the nighttime measurement device after a cleanout period and compared nights without the supplement to nights when participants took two supplement tablets (AffirmScience®). He reports approximately a 35% improvement in the area under the curve per hour of sleep, which he describes as a way of standardizing measurements despite differences in the number of hours participants slept. The second part of the study examined whether the supplement could work synergistically with sildenafil. Dr. Brandeis chose 40 milligrams of sildenafil rather than the full 100-milligram dose because he wanted enough room in the measurement range to detect an additional effect rather than potentially “maxing out” the response. He explains that the theoretical reason for combining the two approaches is that nitric oxide contributes to the production of cGMP while sildenafil prevents cGMP from being broken down, meaning the two mechanisms converge on the same signaling pathway enhancing blood vessel dilation. He says the purpose was to determine whether the combination could improve nighttime erectile function while potentially allowing men to use a lower sildenafil dose and therefore experience fewer dose-related side effects. He describes the results as meeting his expectations and discusses how the findings could potentially be applied by men using PDE5 inhibitors. CONCLUSION: The interview concludes with Dr. Brandeis discussing his educational approach, his efforts to make complicated men’s-health concepts understandable, his book and educational resources, his use of artificial intelligence (Gobal Men’s Wellness - Ask Dr. Brandeis Any Question) to provide additional educational material, and his clinical practice.Brief Outline of Key Points* Dr. Brandeis’s Background* Brown University undergraduate education.* Work involving kidney preservation and transplantation.* Vanderbilt Medical School.* Research at Harvard Medical School.* General surgery and urology training at UCLA.* Transition from kidney transplantation to general urology and men’s health.* Interest in Nitric Oxide and Erectile Function* Connection between nitric oxide and blood-vessel dilation.* Relationship between nitric oxide, cyclic GMP, and PDE5 inhibitors.* Interest in improving erectile function through nitric oxide support.* Development of the Nitric Oxide-Boosting Supplement* Citrulline* Beet extract* Panax ginseng* Muira puama* Developed initially in connection with his work involving shockwave therapy* Nighttime Erections* Erections normally occur during REM sleep.* Declining nighttime erections may accompany aging and reduced penile blood flow.* Nighttime measurements provide a more objective assessment of erectile function.* The “TechRing” (FirmTech) was used to measure nighttime erectile activity.* Affirm® Alone* Participants underwent a cleanout period.* Nighttime erections were measured without the supplement and then with two supplement tablets.* Dr. Brandeis reports approximately a 35% improvement in the area under the curve per hour of sleep.* Sildenafil Combined with Affirm® * Used 40 mg of sildenafil rather than the full 100-mg dose.* Examined whether nitric oxide supplementation and sildenafil had a synergistic effect.* The rationale was based on their interaction with the cyclic-GMP pathway.* The goal was to determine whether the combination could improve erectile function while potentially permitting a lower sildenafil dose.* Other Issues Discussed* Possible effects of large meals on nighttime erections.* Importance of sleep and REM sleep.* Sildenafil and tadalafil differences discussed in relation to duration of action.* Dr. Brandeis’s emphasis on patient education.* His book, online educational resources, podcasts, YouTube channels, and artificial-intelligence-based men’s-health resources.($5.00/month or $50/year would be appreciated for this publication)Dr. Joe Dispenza’s Website* Practice, Persistence and Patience - My Favorite. The first story of transfo… Get full access to Staying Healthy Today at stayinghealthytoday.substack.com/subscribe