Dr. Berg’s Healthy Keto and Intermittent Fasting Podcast

Today, I want to cover the early warning signs of colon cancer that you should pay attention to. These indicators do not necessarily mean you have colon cancer, but they are important clues that could help in the early detection of this disease. Risk factors associated with colon cancer: • Smoking • Drinking • Unhealthy diet • Obesity • H. pylori infection Red meat has also been associated with colon cancer. However, recent studies have found no direct correlation between red meat and cancer and that the quality of meat consumed, such as grass-fed versus grain-fed, can make a difference. Genetics play a role in colon cancer but only account for about five percent of cases. Lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise can have a much greater impact on gene expression through epigenetics. Six early indicators of colon cancer: • Blood in the stool • Anemia without a known cause • Thin stools • Worsening constipation • Abdominal pain • Sudden weight loss or loss of appetite If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to consult with your doctor for further testing and evaluation. But what can you do to potentially avoid colon cancer? Here are a few tips: • Limit the use of antibiotics, but if you must take them, also take a good probiotic. • Try intermittent fasting or prolonged fasting to give your colon a break and allow it to heal. • Incorporate cruciferous vegetables such as kale, broccoli, and cabbage into your diet for their anti-inflammatory and probiotic properties. • Stay physically active to strengthen your mitochondria and decrease cancer risk. • Add spices such as garlic, thyme, and sage to your meals for their anti-cancer properties. • Avoid foods that cause inflammation in the gut, such as gluten, grains, seed oils, and junk food. DATA: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama... https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...

Today, I want to cover the six main foods that can potentially cause cancer. However, many other factors can trigger cancer, including: • Exposure to environmental toxins such as pesticides, radon, and cleaning chemicals • Old age and age-related changes in the body's cells • Viruses, fungi, parasites, and bacteria • Pollution Six foods that may cause cancer: 1. Alcohol: Chronic alcohol exposure can damage your mitochondria, which can lead to cancer. 2. Trans fats: These are artificially produced fats commonly found in fried foods and processed snacks. They have been linked to an increased risk of cancer and other health issues. 3. Burnt or charred meat: Harmful chemicals such as heterocyclic amines (HCA) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) can be formed when meat is cooked at high temperatures. These have been linked to various types of cancer. Add garlic or rosemary to your meat while cooking to reduce your risk. 4. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs): These are compounds formed when protein and sugar are heated together. Foods high in AGEs include barbecued meats, fried foods, and ice cream. 5. Processed meats: These can contain nitrates, which have been associated with an increased risk of cancer. It's important to note that grass-fed and grass-finished meat differs from processed meat. Therefore, it's important to choose quality sources of meat. 6. Ultra-processed or junk foods: These foods are highly refined and are high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and chemicals. They can cause inflammation and deplete our vitamin and mineral reserves. It’s important to look out for Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) foods that are unhealthy, such as: • Maltodextrin • Modified starch • High fructose corn syrup • Corn oil • Soy oil • Canola oil • Corn syrup DATA: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17023... https://bmccancer.biomedcentral.com/a... https://usrtk.org/ultra-processed-foo... https://www.thelancet.com/journals/la... https://www.thelancet.com/journals/ec... https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29444... https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36477...

Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of Ozempic is crucial when considering how to manage your weight after stopping this medication. As a GLP-1 Agonist, Ozempic mimics a hormone in your small intestine that helps regulate insulin levels, control appetite, and slow down gastric emptying. While this can aid in weight loss, it can also lead to adverse side effects. These side effects may include: • Nutrient deficiency • Gastroparesis • Constipation • Gallbladder problems • Thyroid tumors and cancer To help maintain your weight after Ozempic, it’s crucial to make certain lifestyle changes, such as: 1. Follow a ketogenic diet to keep insulin levels low and promote fat-burning. 2. Do intermittent fasting to control appetite and improve hormone balance. 3. Incorporate weight training to build and preserve muscle mass. Additionally, ensuring adequate protein intake is crucial for maintaining muscle mass, especially for those who have already lost a significant amount of muscle while on Ozempic. This can be achieved through consuming bioavailable proteins such as red meat, eggs, and fish. Monitoring your hormone levels and ensuring proper cholesterol intake is also important, as cholesterol is a building block for many hormones, including testosterone and estrogen.

In this podcast, we're going to talk about ALS and how it can negatively affect the body. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects nerve cells. This leads to muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventually death. According to "The ALS Puzzle Solved?!", there is evidence that ALS may be related to hormonal shifts and aging. As we age, there is a decrease in protective hormones such as progesterone and melatonin, which can lead to nerve damage and muscle weakness. It has also been suggested that mutations in certain individuals may play a role in the development of ALS. While the exact cause of ALS is still unknown, this information provides a potential pathway for treatment and management of the disease. It is recommended to supplement with melatonin and vitamin K2, as well as take natural B vitamins and hormones such as pregnenolone to support the body's production of progesterone. Additionally, infrared therapy has been shown to potentially increase melatonin levels, while resveratrol can help decrease toxicity in the body. DATA: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30173656 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34138412 https://www.scielo.br/j/ramb/a/hXLP66...

In this podcast, we’re going to talk about essential fatty acids, omega-6 and omega-3. The omega-6 to omega-3 ratio is way off in the average diet. The average American is at a 20:1 and sometimes a 70:1 or more omega-6 to omega-3 ratio! We need both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, but we need significantly more omega-3 fatty acids to avoid inflammation. The source is important! You don’t want to get your omega-6 fatty acids from seed oils. Omega-6 consumption from seed oils directly correlates with chronic illnesses like heart disease. Very recently in human history, seed oils replaced saturated fat in the diet and are in every ultra-processed food. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish, cod liver oil, cod liver, sardines, and shellfish. Grain-fed animals are much higher in omega-6 fatty acids. This is one of the reasons people are turning to grass-fed, grass-finished beef. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids go through the same biochemical pathways and compete with each other in the body. If there’s any problem in these biochemical pathways, you can end up with dysfunctional fats that your body will be unable to benefit from. Co-factors for these biochemical pathways include magnesium, vitamins B2, B3, B6, vitamin C, and insulin. Many people are insulin resistant, which means they’re deficient in insulin. Seed oil consumption paired with insulin resistance causes a lot more compound damage. Intermittent fasting and a low-carb diet can correct insulin resistance so you’re better able to utilize fatty acids within the body and don’t end up with dysfunctional fats. Omega-3 fatty acids fall into two categories: DHA and EPA. EPA helps reduce inflammation, and DHA helps support cognitive function. ALA is a precursor to EPA. There’s a simple blood test that can measure your omega-3 to omega-6 ratio.

I switched to the carnivore diet for 2 weeks. Here's what happened. In this podcast, I’m going to share my opinion of the carnivore diet after following it for 2 weeks. Not everyone does well on the same diet, so it’s important to experiment with different diets to find the right one for you. Many people do very well on the carnivore diet! The carnivore diet can be very helpful for people with gut issues and autoimmune conditions. While on the carnivore diet, I ate beef, pork, eggs, seafood, shellfish, and dairy. I discovered that I had been experiencing bloating due to my nut consumption. I didn’t experience any energy changes because I already have high energy. For the first few days, I didn’t have any bowel movements. This was probably because my gut microbes needed to adjust. Some people wonder about vitamin C intake on the carnivore diet. When you go on the carnivore diet, your need for vitamin C decreases. I do not plan to continue the carnivore diet. I will continue eating the same proteins along with salads made from high-quality ingredients. I’ll also consume fermented vegetables like sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles. I love to add extra virgin olive oil, parmigiano reggiano, nutritional yeast, and feta cheese to my salads. The calcium in cheese binds to any oxalates that are in your salad, removing them from the digestive system. I’ll also add berries to my diet, but I won’t be eating any nuts! INFORMATION ON METABOLOMIC TESTING: https://www.drtsoukalas.com/new_patie...

Let's talk about sebaceous filaments, the common misconceptions surrounding them, and why they keep coming back. We will also explore the root causes and how to address these issues to achieve long-term results. Many people mistake sebaceous filaments for blackheads and try to remove them by using tweezers or other methods. However, this can damage the skin. The presence of sebaceous filaments and blackheads is often linked to the overproduction of sebum. This production is regulated by a hormone called androgens, which can increase during puberty, pregnancy, or other hormonal imbalances. So, how do we address the root cause of sebaceous filaments? One way is to regulate and balance our androgen levels through dietary changes. Consuming foods high in vitamin A, D, and omega-3 fatty acids while reducing the intake of seed oils found in processed foods can help decrease sebum production. Another way to reduce and balance androgen levels is through intermittent fasting and the keto diet, which helps lower insulin levels. High levels of insulin can also contribute to the overproduction of sebum. Additionally, zinc deficiency has been linked to raised sebum production. Consuming zinc-rich foods such as shellfish and red meat can help address this deficiency. Managing stress levels is also essential, as chronic stress can deplete our zinc levels. DATA: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14223... https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...

In this podcast, we're going to talk about the importance of mitochondria in relation to longevity and how specific molecules found in food can help support their function. We explore the benefits of PQQ, polyphenols, Coenzyme Q10, L-carnitine, carnosine, phycocyanin, and EPA/DHA. These molecules are found in a variety of foods, such as: • Cacao, which contains PQQ • Berries, grass-fed meats, and cheese, which are rich in polyphenols • Liver, red meat, and fatty fish, which are good sources of Coenzyme Q10 • Red meat, which is high in L-carnitine and carnosine • Spirulina, which is a vegetarian source of phycocyanin • Salmon, sardines, and cod liver oil, which are rich in EPA and DHA Incorporating these foods into your diet can potentially increase the number of mitochondria in your cells, improve energy production, decrease oxidative stress and inflammation, and slow down aging. Let's dive deeper into each of these potent molecules and their specific benefits: • PQQ—Boosts mitochondrial count and supports uninterrupted energy production in cells. • Polyphenols—Enhance mitochondrial function and reduce inflammation. • Coenzyme Q10—Is essential for proper mitochondrial functioning, especially in energy production. It also acts as an antioxidant and may have therapeutic effects for mitochondrial diseases. Supplementing with Coenzyme Q10 may benefit those taking statins. • L-carnitine—Helps with fat burning, muscle preservation during exercise, and post-workout recovery. • Carnosine—Acts as a pH buffer, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and may delay aging. • Phycocyanin—Has antioxidant properties and supports mitochondrial biogenesis, increasing energy production and potentially protecting DNA. • EPA and DHA—Are omega-3 fatty acids that increase mitochondrial function, reduce oxidative stress, have anti-inflammatory effects, and improve insulin sensitivity. DATA: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...

In this podcast, I’m going to tell you how to get rid of your infection symptoms naturally. To combat an infection, try to determine if you’re dealing with a viral infection or a bacterial infection. Viral infection symptoms will be more systemic. If you have a viral infection, you’ll notice more body aches and chills. Bacterial infection symptoms will be localized. Fevers are typically higher with a bacterial infection. A sore throat associated with a viral infection is often accompanied by a runny nose and a cough. If a sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection, you’ll feel more localized pain without a runny nose. A dry cough is associated with a viral infection, while bacterial infections are associated with a productive cough. Respiratory infection, the common cold, flu, bronchitis, and infections involving the sinuses and lungs are generally viral. Pneumonia can be both bacterial and viral. A viral infection typically lasts 1 to 2 weeks. A bacterial infection will probably last a bit longer, but this depends on your immune system. Mucus associated with a viral infection is usually clear or white and green or yellow with a bacterial infection. The best viral infection remedies are elderberry and olive leaf extract. For bacterial infections, try garlic, oregano oil, and echinacea. The following remedies for infection work for both viral and bacterial infections: •Take a hot bath or shower/dress warm •Get more sleep •Take zinc, vitamin D, and vitamin C •Fasting •Increase sea salt intake •Improve emotional state •Get more sunlight (UVB and infrared rays) •Take cod liver oil Stress, age, and poor gut health can increase your susceptibility to infection. Refined sugar and other refined foods deplete zinc and vitamin C, also increasing your susceptibility to infection.

In this podcast, we will discuss the potential risks and downsides of taking testosterone, as it can negatively affect your hormonal responses and even inhibit the body's natural production of testosterone. Your body has a complex hormone feedback system that the brain uses to communicate to turn on or off testosterone production. When you change your natural hormone levels with external sources, there can be many side effects that may reduce your quality of life. The effects of taking testosterone may include: •Worsening sleep apnea •Moodiness •Acne •Dizziness •Higher risk of heart disease •Decreased fertility •Thickening of blood •Testicular atrophy •Erectile dysfunction Before taking any testosterone supplements, it is important to identify the root cause of low testosterone levels. This can include: • Age • Insulin resistance • Low zinc • Protein deficiency • Low-fat diet • Statins • High soy diet • Low vitamin A or vitamin D • Excessive physical activity • Insomnia • Liver issues • Obesity Fortunately, you can increase testosterone naturally by getting enough rest and a nutritious diet. Here are more ways to boost your testosterone levels: • Weight training • More zinc in the diet • Vitamin D • More fatty foods with less carbs • DHEA supplements • Getting more REM sleep • Lose weight • Lowering blood sugar with a keto diet • Intermittent fasting • Sufficient protein in the diet DATA: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science...

In this podcast, we’re going to talk about the health benefits of cod liver oil. Cod liver oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. EPA has potent anti-inflammatory properties, while DHA supports cognitive function. Cod liver oil is also rich in vitamin A and vitamin D. Don’t confuse cod liver oil with fish oil! You would need 12,000 mg of fish oil to equal just one tablespoon of cod liver oil. You can not get vitamin A from fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene is only a precursor to vitamin A, not the active form. Cod liver oil contains retinol, the active form of vitamin A. The most common autoimmune disease is Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism. There’s a significant link between vitamin A deficiency and hypothyroidism. There are vitamin A receptors inside of your white blood cells, so it’s crucial for immunity! Vitamin A also helps to regulate iodine. Vitamin A supports the mucus membranes of your mouth, sinuses, throat, and lungs, so it’s critical in preventing infections. It also supports the roots of the microvilli on the inside of your intestinal tract. Vitamin A supports the health of your retina. If you’re deficient in retinol (the active form of vitamin A), you can go blind. Cod liver oil is also a good source of vitamin D. Without vitamin D, you can't pull calcium and magnesium into the body. Beans, legumes, grains, and cereals are very high in phytic acid, which increases the need for vitamin D. If your diet is high in these foods, it’s easy to become deficient in vitamin D.

In this podcast, I’m going to show you how to fall asleep fast with a simple sleep technique. First, let’s take a look at the reasons why you might be having trouble getting to sleep. 1. Overtraining or too much exercise causes the sympathetic nervous system to go up, keeping your adrenaline high and preventing sleep. 2. If your room is too hot, it can interfere with your sleep quality. 3. High carb consumption and stress deplete vitamin B1. Vitamin B1 is essential for the parasympathetic nervous system, so a deficiency will keep you up at night. Try taking vitamin B1 before bed for better sleep. 4. Too much caffeine is a common cause of poor sleep. 5. Poor gut health can inhibit good sleep. Kefir as a probiotic can help! 6. Insulin resistance inhibits the absorption of tryptophan, a precursor to melatonin. This can interfere with your ability to fall asleep fast. 7. Some people have trouble sleeping after being on keto or the carnivore diet for a long period of time. This is because their insulin is very low. Try having a cup of berries with your last meal to fix this problem. 8. Sodium deficiency can cause problems with your sleep. This can be caused by fasting, OMAD (one meal a day), or not adding enough sodium to your diet. Low sodium can cause your sympathetic nervous system to go up which can keep you from sleeping. If you want to know how to fall asleep instantly, try this simple sleep technique! You’re going to breathe in a way that synchronizes your heartbeat and blood pressure to the rhythm of your breathing. This will help stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, inducing sleep very quickly. Try practicing with a timer first! Breathe in for 5 ½ seconds and breathe out for 5 ½ seconds. This will give you about 5 ½ breaths per minute. When doing this technique, breathe through your nose, and within minutes you will fall asleep.

In this podcast, we're going to talk about the importance of histidine in helping to prevent hair loss and what foods you should incorporate into your diet to support healthy hair. A study has shown that over 90 percent of people suffering from alopecia are deficient in an amino acid called histidine. This essential amino acid is a precursor to histamine, which plays a vital role in immune reactions, allergies, and inflammation. Deficiencies in histidine can lead to anemia, while excessive intake can cause premature ejaculation. However, the right amount of histidine in your diet can promote healthy hair growth by helping to produce keratin and regulating copper and zinc levels. Certain medications and alcohol consumption may lower histidine levels in the body, while inadequate stomach acid can hinder its absorption from food sources. To counter this issue, betaine hydrochloride can be taken as an acidifier. But to fully utilize histidine, specific co-factors must be present, such as vitamin B6, proper copper and zinc ratios, and folate. The top three foods that can help combat hair loss are: 1. Organ meats, including liver, due to the histidine and other essential nutrients they contain. 2. Animal proteins, such as beef and chicken, are rich in histidine and other amino acids necessary for hair regeneration. 3. Shellfish, particularly shrimp, scallops, and crabs, provide high levels of zinc and copper that can help maintain proper ratios in the body. It's important to note that having enough folate in your diet is essential for hair development. It's best to obtain folate from natural sources, as taking supplements such as folic acid may inhibit the conversion of histidine into its active form. DATA: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti... https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/99021/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...

In this podcast, we're going to talk about the different factors that can contribute to anxiety and how they affect our bodies. Anxiety is defined as worrying about something that may or may not happen. It can be triggered by speculation, sensationalism, or conjecture. Speculation is when we are concerned about things not based on facts or knowledge, while sensationalism is the use of shocking words or exaggerated stories to grab attention. A conjecture, on the other hand, is an opinion based on guessing rather than the truth. These triggers can cause anxiety that, if left unchecked, may become chronic and affect our adrenal glands. This, in turn, encourages the release of adrenaline and cortisol, weakening our immune system and accelerating the aging process. Limiting exposure to stress through activities such as exercise and spending time in nature is essential to break this cycle. It’s also best to avoid negative messages and sensationalized news that provoke these anxious thoughts. Additionally, incorporating adaptogens into our diet, such as vitamin B1 and ashwagandha, helps to strengthen our ability to cope with daily stress.

If you’re deficient in niacin (vitamin B3), you may have some strange symptoms. Find out how to spot a niacin deficiency and what you can do to fix it! DATA: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...