A Functional Approach with Dr. Jim Chialtas

In this 140th episode I discuss some important concepts around testosterone replacement therapy in men. This topic came up as a result of a conversation I had recently with a colleague where I talked about some of the more radical concepts I have seen as a result of higher levels of testosterone therapy. There is of course a time and a place for just about anything... And testosterone or any other hormone replacement therapy is not something that I feel is wrong by any means. But I do believe that it is a 'can of worms' in a lot of ways. It can be hard to get it right. As I discussed in a previous episode, hormone levels do not necessarily equal "hormone effect." There is much more to the equation. In this episode I will discuss some of the basic physiology of how testosterone is produced and managed naturally. Knowing this helps us understand how and why hormone replacement may or may not be ideal, and how problems can occur.I discuss my time spent shadowing an HRT doctor (MD) during my Doctorate program, and where I saw first hand some of the unfortunate side effects of high testosterone. And yes... It involves the testicles! If you haven't listened to my past episode on Hormones, check it out here... In this episode I discuss how hormone levels do not equal hormone effect. Meaning, there is much more to the story. So chasing a particular effect like larger muscles, less hot flashes, more vitality, etc. and getting hormone levels higher and higher could lead to unfortunate effects on your health. This episode explores such concepts:https://open.spotify.com/episode/0UysAMJ8G5w8dtLgaa8s7q?si=uvXhtyjqScSusg4FGyA1dA

In this 133rd episode, I sit down again with my friend and colleague Kit Yoon. Several months ago we were chatting and got onto the topic of happiness. A big topic to say the least, and we realized there was a lot to unpack so we put a pin in it for a later time. Well, this is that later time! Our discussion was not pre-planned, or designed in any way. It was as organic and natural as it gets. The best way, in my opinion. So everything that came up here was from the heart. It was our truth. And we happily shared it with you all. Kit offers some concepts taken from the author Arthur C. Brooks regarding the "Macro and Micro Nutrients of Happiness." (Links below) And I share a writing piece that I did from a few years ago while I was exploring the concept of happiness. My writing piece does not reflect my own personal story, but rather the story of many people. It was a channel of sorts into the psyche of humanity at large. (At least from the male perspective which was used as an example in the piece.) I hope that you enjoy this philosophical discussion on one of the more fundamental concepts we humans tend to struggle with throughout our lives. Happiness.... If you want to check out more of what Kit offers you can click on these links:https://kityoon.com/https://kityoon.substack.com/https://www.instagram.com/kit_yoon/?hl=enAnd if you would like to check out Arthur C. Brooks:Here's the book: https://www.arthurbrooks.com/books/from-strength-to-strengthHere's a Youtube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dU6ck388Xv4

In this 105th episode I spend an hour talking with a longtime friend and colleague Kit Yoon. I met Kit back in 1999 in acupuncture school up in Santa Cruz California. From the moment I met her I knew she had a lot to offer this world and the people living on it. Those who are under her care are lucky ones indeed.This chat was focused on the discussion of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Functional Medicine, and just a little about everything. We were doing this recorded discussion for Kit's Facebook Live following and it was such a lovely exchange. I look forward to continuing the discussion with Kit and others in the near future!

In this 77th episode I discuss a very common neurological complaint.... Brain Fog. There are many underlying mechanisms that can lead to a person experiencing brain fog. Head trauma, autoimmunity, food sensitivity reactions, and more can all be contributing factors. I discuss more about the immune cells of the brain called microglial cells can activate and remain on attack for long periods of time leading to brain fog. And I finish with some tips for supplementation, diet and lifestyle concepts that can help reduce or eliminate the condition. I created a list of supplements that have shown to help with this condition and posted them to an online dispensary called Full Script. If you would like to explore these for yourself just follow the link: https://us.fullscript.com/plans/drjim-brain-fog-support And if you would like to dig in deeper to find that root cause, by all means get in touch and let's book an initial consultation! https://functionalmedicine-sandiego.com/

In this 74th episode, as I continue to recover from a bout of Covid-19, I ponder some concepts around it is easy to take on the negativity of those around us. As an empathic person, I find this to be a common challenge for me which absolutely challenges my health. I offer a musical meditation piece called "We are truth" which is something that speaks to me when I feel the need to remember to focus on a more centering perspective, and to let go the things which are working against me. Let go of those things which are working to bring you down. Most of the time, they are not really your burden to bear...