Happy Bones, Happy Life

What if osteoporosis and heart disease have more in common than we realize? In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Keith McCormick, a leading osteoporosis expert and author of Great Bones, to explore the shared roots of bone loss and cardiovascular disease. We dive into why these two conditions can appear together and what your bloodwork may reveal about what is happening beneath the surface. Dr. McCormick takes us beyond the standard lab panel and explains why looking at patterns, trends, and hidden correlations matters when trying to understand the root causes of bone loss. We also talk about homocysteine and why this relatively simple test can provide important information about both bone and cardiovascular health. This conversation is a great reminder that bone health doesn't exist in isolation. Our bones, blood vessels, metabolism, inflammation, and overall health are interconnected. Understanding those connections can give us more information and more opportunities to take proactive steps toward stronger bones and better health. "Osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease can be comorbidities. You need to stand up for your health and speak with your doctor about these things, and ask for good testing." ~ Dr. Keith McCormick In this episode: [00:00] - Introduction and Dr. McCormick's experience living with osteoporosis [07:32] - The connection between osteoporosis and cardiovascular health [12:15] - MTHFR and homocysteine: why they matter [28:06] - The deeper lab testing approach [29:09] - Jane's case: severe osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease [35:38] - The RANK/RANKL/OPG pathway connecting bones and blood vessels [39:03] - Other labs to look at for bone and cardiovascular health [42:20] - Inflammation, metabolism, and cardiovascular risk [44:10] - Gut-bone-cardiovascular axis [48:14] - Sample treatment plan to support bone and cardiovascular health [53:55] - Advocating for your health and asking for the right tests Resources - Dr. McCormick's website - https://greatbonesconsulting.com/consultation/ - Margie's Strong Bones for Life Free Class on September 8 at 12:00 pm EDT - https://tinyurl.com/strongbonesclass - - Osteoporosis Exercises - https://tinyurl.com/bonehealthexercises - Discounted Supplements at Margie's Fullscript Dispensary - https://tinyurl.com/supplementsforless More about Margie - Website - https://margiebissinger.com/ - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/ - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast. *In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.

For so many people, the thought of memory loss or cognitive decline feels frightening. But today's guest shares an empowering message: there is so much we can do through our daily choices to support brain health and reduce risk. I'm joined by Dr. David Perlmutter, board-certified neurologist, leading brain health expert, and bestselling author of Brain Defenders, to discuss what we can do today to protect our brains as we age. We explore the important shift in how we understand brain health, looking at the bigger picture of immunometabolism, metabolic health, inflammation, and the environment that influences the brain long before symptoms appear. Dr. Perlmutter explains why habits that support the entire body, including blood sugar balance and reduced inflammation, can also support cognitive health. He also shares exciting areas of research and reminds us that even small changes can create meaningful improvements over time. Just like we can take steps to support our bones, we can also support our brains through the choices we make every day. "Your brain's destiny is in your hands. It's based upon the choices that you are going to make every single day. A cure for dementia is not going to be given to you in the form of a medication." ~ Dr. David Perlmutter In this episode: - [03:22] - The new science of brain health and immunometabolism - [11:19] - Metabolic health and its impact on cognitive decline - [17:26] - Blood sugar, insulin resistance, and brain health - [28:35] - How to protect your brain as you age - [31:37] - Lab tests for proactive brain health - [39:15] - Environmental toxins, plastics, and brain health - [45:26] - Emerging therapies and the future of brain protection - [52:08] - Resources from Dr. Perlmutter Resources - Osteoporosis Exercises to Strengthen Your Bones and Prevent Fractures - https://tinyurl.com/mystrongbonesexercises - Dr. Perlmutter's new book, Brain Defenders - https://drperlmutter.com/books/brain-defenders/ - Dr. Perlmutter's website - https://drperlmutter.com/ More about Margie - Website - https://margiebissinger.com/ - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/ - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast. *In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.

Could insulin resistance be affecting your bone health? In this episode, I share an interview with Dr. Brian Mowll (better known as The Diabetes Coach™), founder and medical director of SweetLife® Diabetes Health Centers, to explore the hidden connection between insulin resistance, blood sugar, and bone health. We discuss why many people may have insulin resistance for years before receiving a diabetes diagnosis and the importance of testing deeper than standard blood sugar markers. We go over the tests that can provide more insight, including fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, triglycerides, and other markers that may reveal issues earlier. We also share practical strategies to improve insulin sensitivity, including improving body composition, supporting liver health, and intermittent fasting when appropriate. This conversation is a powerful reminder that caring for your metabolism is also an important part of caring for your bones. "You may not necessarily think about blood sugar when you think about bone health, but there are a lot of connections." ~ Dr. Brian Mowll In this episode: - [01:41] - How insulin resistance affects osteoporosis risk - [10:01] - Why insulin resistance is often overlooked - [12:14] - Testing insulin resistance beyond blood sugar - [16:24] - HOMA-IR and metabolic health markers - [26:48] - Supporting liver health and reducing insulin resistance - [33:11] - The biggest health lever: improving body composition - [37:47] - Fasting, nutrient-dense foods, and metabolism - [43:10] - Resources and next steps for better metabolic health Resources - More Natural Approaches to Osteoporosis & Bone Health Summit (free for 7 days) - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/osteoporosis-bone-health-summit - Get quality supplements from Margie's Fullscript Dispensary - https://tinyurl.com/supplementsforless - Osteoporosis Exercises to Increase Strength and Reduce Fractures - https://tinyurl.com/osteoporosisexercises - Dr. Mowll's guide and website - https://drmowll.lpages.co/bone-guide/ More about Margie - Website - https://margiebissinger.com/ - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/ - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast. *In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.

Are you looking for ways to protect your bones and live a vibrant life? In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. John Neustadt, a leading expert in bone health. We discuss what's new in osteoporosis and fracture prevention, and his recommendations for maintaining strong, fracture-proof bones. Dr. Neustadt is the Founder and President of the dietary supplement company Nutritional Biochemistry, Inc. (NBII) and NBI Pharmaceuticals. He hosts the Delivering Health podcast, is a member of the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation's Corporate Advisory Roundtable, has authored five books and over 100 research reviews, and was recognized as a Top 10 Cited Author worldwide for his work. The updated edition of his best-selling book, Fracture-Proof Your Bones, is packed with valuable information, from diet and exercise to the latest testing methods and supplements. With his integrative approach, you'll learn how to proactively improve your bone health, manage osteoporosis, and live your healthiest life. "Once people start taking better care of themselves in one domain of their health, they're more likely to start doing more. They get wins and successes in one area, and they become more motivated to do other things." ~ Dr. John Neustadt In this episode: - [02:15] - Fracture-Proof Your Bones, Expanded Edition: what's new? - [06:43] - The importance of testing beyond just bone density - [09:58] - Why aromatase inhibitors and other medications cause bone loss - [14:37] - How exercise can help fracture-proof your bones - [18:57] - Not all testing has to be done in laboratories - [24:32] - How chronic stress and anxiety directly affect bone strength - [29:50] - Why a holistic approach is key to fracture-proofing your bones - [35:56] - A cautionary perspective on Strontium - [42:32] - The importance of quality sleep in preventing fractures - [44:29] - Where to get Dr. Neustadt's book and learn more about his work Resources - Osteoporosis Exercises to Strengthen Your Bones and Prevent Fractures - http://tinyurl.com/osteoporosisexercises - Get a copy of Fracture-Proof Your Bones at Dr. Neustadt's website - https://www.nbihealth.com/ More about Margie - Website - https://margiebissinger.com/ - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/ - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast. *In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.

Did you know that IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is not just about gut discomfort? It could be a root cause of osteoporosis. In today's episode, I'm joined by Dr. Izabella Wentz, an integrative pharmacist and author of IBS: Finding and Treating the Root Cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. We explore how IBS can have a direct impact on your bone health, raising the risk of osteoporosis. Izabella shares how IBS prevents proper nutrient absorption, which plays a significant role in weakening bones. We discuss the root causes of IBS and how these issues can trigger a cascade of health problems, including autoimmune diseases and weakened bones. The great news? The steps you take to heal your gut can directly benefit your bones. Izabella walks us through practical ways to address IBS, improve gut health, and ultimately protect your bones. "Diet is definitely the first intervention that I recommend. And generally speaking, getting off some of the common inflammatory foods–such as gluten and dairy–can be a really quick way to feel better." ~ Dr. Izabella Wentz In this episode: - [01:37] - How IBS impacts nutrient absorption and bone health - [03:23] - IBS and its root causes (SIBO and more) - [05:27] - The connection between IBS and autoimmune diseases - [10:05] - Conventional treatment for IBS - [13:38] - Gluten and other dietary sensitivities that can cause IBS - [22:32] - Mistakes people make when treating IBS - [24:09] - Common IBS triggers, and the thyroid connection - [30:37] - Tips for managing IBS and improving overall health - [38:45] - Natural way to assess gut motility - [43:01] - Food sensitivity test and other information from Izabella's IBS book Resources - Dr. Izabella Wentz's new book - IBS: Finding and Treating the Root Cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (you can access her bonuses here) - https://thyroidpharmacist.com/IBS - Free Osteoporosis Exercises to Strengthen Your Bones and Prevent Fractures - http://tinyurl.com/osteoporosisexercises - The Happy Bones Club (Margie's Membership) - https://www.happyboneshappylife.com/bones-club More about Margie - Website - https://margiebissinger.com/ - Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Margie-Bissinger-MS-PT-CHC-100063542905332/ - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/margiebissinger/?hl=en DISCLAIMER – The information presented on this podcast should not be construed as medical advice. It is not intended to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. The ideas shared on this podcast are the expressed opinions of the guests and do not always reflect those of Margie Bissinger and Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast. *In compliance with the FTC guidelines, please assume the following about links on this site: Some of the links going to products are affiliate links of which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you (sometimes, I even get to share a unique discount with you). If I post an affiliate link to a product, it is something that I personally use, support, and would recommend. I personally vet each and every product. My first priority is providing valuable information and resources to help you create positive changes in your health and bring more happiness into your life. I will only ever link to products or resources (affiliate or otherwise) that fit within this purpose.