Proven Health Alternatives

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Michelle Jorgensen, a holistic dentist and founder of Living Well with Dr. Michelle, to explore the powerful connection between oral health and systemic wellness. Through her own personal experience with mercury toxicity from dental fillings, Dr. Jorgensen shares how that journey transformed her approach to dentistry and led her toward a more integrative, physiology-based model of care. We discuss how chronic oral inflammation may contribute to broader health issues, including cardiovascular disease, metabolic dysfunction, and chronic inflammation throughout the body. We also dive into topics such as mercury amalgams, fluoride, root canals, dental meridians, and the growing understanding of how the mouth can influence the rest of the body. From alternative dental care strategies to the role of hydroxyapatite and oil pulling, this conversation challenges conventional thinking and highlights why oral health should be part of every comprehensive wellness plan. If you want to better understand the mouth-body connection and how oral health impacts long-term wellness, this episode will completely change the way you think about dentistry. Key takeaways: Oral Health's Impact on Overall Health: The mouth is a gateway influencing systemic health, potentially driving inflammation and chronic disease. Dangers of Conventional Dental Practices: Practices like mercury fillings, fluoride use, and root canals may contribute to broader health issues. Holistic Approach & Dental Meridians: The intricate network connecting teeth to body systems underlines the importance of holistic dental practices. Role of Dentists in Health: Dentists have a responsibility to protect patient health beyond traditional drilling and filling. More About Dr. Michelle Jorgensen: Today's guest is Dr. Michelle Jorgensen, a former traditional dentist turned holistic health pioneer, who helps exhausted, health-conscious people finally feel like themselves again—by starting where health actually begins: your cells. She's the founder of Living Well with Dr. Michelle and author of her newly released book by the same name, which reveals how to decode your symptoms and give your body exactly what it needs to heal, thrive, and stay energized—without the fads, overwhelm, or guesswork. If you're tired of chasing health trends and still not feeling better, this conversation is for you. Website Instagram Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube 🚀For those looking to go deeper into the nutritional strategies I often discuss, supporting the body with targeted nutrients can play an important role in immune resilience, metabolic health, and long-term vitality. I've partnered with Big Bold Health, a company focused on developing research-driven supplements designed to support those systems. You can learn more here: https://bigboldhealth.com/pages/robertsilverman and save 15% sitewide with code SILVERMAN15.

What role do food sensitivities really play in women's health, especially during menopause? In this episode, I sit down with nutritionist Charlotte Hunter to break down the connection between food sensitivities, gut health, and hormonal shifts. We explore how changes in estrogen levels can impact gut permeability, and why this often leads to increased inflammation and symptom flare-ups during the menopausal transition. We dive into the importance of proper food sensitivity testing and how identifying hidden triggers can make a significant difference in managing symptoms. We also tackle a key question: are food sensitivities actually increasing, or are we just getting better at detecting them? From dietary approaches like keto to foundational lifestyle factors such as stress, sleep, and movement, this conversation brings everything back to the bigger picture. Because it's not just about removing foods—it's about addressing the underlying drivers. If you're looking to better understand how nutrition, hormones, and gut health intersect, this episode will give you practical insights you can apply right away. Key takeaways: Food sensitivities can often be mistaken as symptoms rather than root causes and should be addressed alongside lifestyle factors such as stress, sleep, and exercise. The decline in estrogen during menopause can impair gut integrity, leading to increased food sensitivities and disorders such as leaky gut. Accurate testing for food sensitivities, including both IgG and C3D complement tests, is essential to identify true food reactions causing inflammation. Dietary choices, particularly high-fat diets like keto, can exacerbate gut barrier issues, leading to higher LPS expression and consequently more profound gut permeability. Managing menopause symptoms requires a multifaceted approach, including balanced nutrition, avoidance of unnecessary food restrictions, and lifestyle modifications. More About Charlotte Hunter: Charlotte Hunter is a nutritionist and has been in clinical practice since 2010. Her work focuses on adverse food reactions, immune-gut interactions, and the practical use of functional laboratory testing to improve clinical outcomes. She is currently completing her MSc in Nutritional Medicine and has a particular interest in how immune tolerance and intestinal permeability influence food sensitivity responses. She also leads a team of nutritionists in her busy menopause practice. Charlotte manages KBMO Diagnostics UK and NutriDyn Europe and has worked extensively with a range of laboratory providers. This gives her a unique, balanced perspective on the strengths, limitations, and clinical application of food sensitivity testing across the industry. She is passionate about helping practitioners move beyond test results alone, combining clinical reasoning, current research, and practical tools to create safe, personalised nutrition strategies. Website Instagram KBMO Diagnostics Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube 🚀For those looking to go deeper into the nutritional strategies I often discuss, supporting the body with targeted nutrients can play an important role in immune resilience, metabolic health, and long-term vitality. I've partnered with Big Bold Health, a company focused on developing research-driven supplements designed to support those systems. You can learn more here: https://bigboldhealth.com/pages/robertsilverman and save 15% sitewide with code SILVERMAN15.

Why do so many people feel unwell even when their labs are labeled "normal"? Are we using laboratory testing as a guide, or are we letting numbers drive decisions without enough context? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Ralph Esposito, a board-certified nutritionist, functional medicine practitioner, and expert in metabolic health, to unpack one of the most misunderstood tools in modern medicine: laboratory testing. As Dr. Esposito explains, labs are a cornerstone of healthcare, but they are also among the most frequently misused. We explore how nutrition and metabolic labs should be evaluated responsibly by prioritizing clinical context, pre-test probability, biological variability, and individual response rather than relying on isolated or outdated reference ranges. Our conversation also dives into common misunderstandings around testosterone replacement therapy, cardiovascular risk, and why population-based "normal" values often miss what is happening in the individual. Dr. Esposito introduces an N of 1 framework, reframing labs not as definitive answers but as decision-support tools meant to guide truly personalized care. If you want a clearer, more thoughtful way to interpret labs and assess real health risk, this episode will change how you look at your numbers. Key takeaways: Lab Interpretation Caution: Misinterpretation of lab results can lead to incorrect health assessments; patient history and context are crucial in lab result analysis. Individualized Guidelines: Dr. Esposito advocates for a shift from population-based to personalized markers of health for more accurate patient care. Role of Testosterone in Health: While TRT can be beneficial, it should be considered carefully, weighing potential health benefits against side effects like elevated hematocrit and hemoglobin levels. Lifestyle Modifications: Recognize the impact of lifestyle changes in conjunction with medical treatments for long-term health improvements. Precision Medicine Vision: The future of healthcare lies in the integration of AI and individualized patient data to tailor precise medical interventions effectively. More About Dr. Ralph Esposito: Dr. Ralph Esposito is a licensed naturopathic physician and acupuncturist specializing in precision preventive and integrative medicine. He serves as Chief Science Officer at AG1 where he oversees scientific strategy and clinical research and is an adjunct professor at New York University. His work focuses on evidence-based N-of-1 approaches to risk reduction metabolic health and longevity translating complex science into clinically meaningful outcomes. Website Instagram Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

In this episode, I sit down with Laurie Hammer, a functional nutrition therapist, to explore the powerful connection between brain health and gut function. Laurie shares her personal journey into functional nutrition and explains why amino acids play a foundational role in both emotional resilience and physical well-being. Our conversation dives into the relationship between neurotransmitters and amino acids, with a focus on serotonin, GABA, and catecholamines. Laurie explains how imbalances in these systems can contribute to anxiety, depression, and even neurodegenerative conditions. Through clinical experience and real-world examples, she outlines how targeted amino acid therapy can create meaningful changes when applied thoughtfully and individually. We also expand the discussion beyond supplementation to the lifestyle factors that support optimal brain health. From adequate protein intake and environmental toxin reduction to grounding practices and cleaner personal care products, this episode offers a holistic framework for supporting the nervous system. It is an insightful conversation for anyone interested in practical, nutrition-driven strategies to improve brain health and long-term vitality. Key takeaways: Amino acids are crucial for neurotransmitter balance, impacting mental health and overall well-being. Laurie Hammer emphasizes the therapeutic potential of tryptophan, glutamine, and the role of other essential amino acids in addressing brain and gut health. Lifestyle changes, including nutrient-rich diets, sunlight exposure, and grounding, are essential for maintaining optimal neurological health. Targeted, therapeutic supplementation of amino acids can significantly improve symptoms of anxiety and depression by nourishing the nervous system. Laurie Hammer's approach encourages tackling brain health through foundational elements like proteins, fats, and minerals, rather than solely focusing on genetic predispositions. More About Laurie Hammer: Laurie Hammer is a Functional Nutritional Therapist, speaker, and host of the Take Back My Brain Podcast. She specializes in targeted amino acid therapy and brain-first nutrition to help women—and the practitioners who serve them—overcome anxiety, overwhelm, brain fog, and burnout without relying on medications. Laurie is the creator of the Mind Thrive Amino Acid Therapy Certification and is known for her bold message: You can't medicate away a nutrient deficiency. Website Instagram Facebook Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Alayna Pagnani-Gendron to explore the interconnected systems that shape pediatric development. Our conversation focuses on how the gut, brain, and immune system develop together and why pediatric chiropractic care plays a meaningful role in supporting that process from the very beginning of life. Dr. Pagnani-Gendron shares insight into early intervention and why a child's health foundation begins even before birth. We discuss the influence of maternal health, gut microbiome development, environmental stressors, and nutrition on a child's nervous system. She explains how gentle pediatric chiropractic assessments help identify patterns early and support balance during critical stages of growth. We also cover what pediatric chiropractic care actually looks like, including the light and specific nature of adjustments, and how this approach may help with common concerns such as colic, reflux, and developmental challenges. This episode is a practical and thoughtful guide for parents who want to understand how preventive, nervous system focused care can support long-term health and resilience in children. Key takeaways: Pediatric chiropractic care supports the interconnected development of the gut, brain, and immune system in children, contributing to holistic wellness. Early chiropractic assessments can address common childhood conditions like colic, reflux, and feeding issues with gentle, precise adjustments. Parent education about healthy lifestyle choices during pregnancy, such as a nutritious diet and reducing exposure to stressors, lays the foundation for a child's health. Collaboration with various healthcare providers enhances the effectiveness of chiropractic care, addressing pediatric needs comprehensively and preventively. Resources such as the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) offer valuable research and advocacy for the role of chiropractic in pediatric health. More About Dr. Alayna Pagnani-Gendron: Dr. Alayna Pagnani-Gendron is a family chiropractor and the owner of HealthPro Family Chiropractic & Acupuncture in Houston, Texas. She specializes in perinatal and pediatric care and is Certified through the ICPA. Dr. Alayna uses gentle, evidence-informed techniques to support optimal nervous system function, cranial balance, and whole-body wellness. A past president of the Texas Chiropractic Association, national speaker, educator, and podcast co-host, Dr. Pagnani-Gendron is known for her collaborative, whole-body approach to airway, tongue-tie, and pediatric development. She lives in Houston with her husband, Brian, and their two sons. Dr. Pagnani is passionate about empowering parents and professionals to better understand the connection between tension, development, and thriving kids. Website Instagram Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

Men's health, fitness, and longevity deserve a deeper and more honest conversation. In this episode, I sit down with Christian Palmer, a veteran bodybuilder, coach, and long-time advocate for sustainable strength and health. Drawing from decades of experience in physique development and training, Palmer shares practical insights into how men can continue to build muscle, maintain performance, and adapt their approach as they age. Our conversation addresses common but often avoided issues in men's health, including sarcopenia and erectile dysfunction. Palmer explains why these are not isolated problems, but reflections of hormonal balance, metabolic health, and lifestyle habits. We discuss the importance of consistent resistance training, adequate protein intake, and strategic hormone management to preserve strength, energy, and physical independence over time. This episode reinforces a holistic, data-driven approach to men's wellness. Beyond workouts and nutrition, we explore the value of comprehensive blood work, understanding biomarkers, and using objective data to guide decisions. Palmer emphasizes that thriving with age requires more than effort in the gym. It requires awareness, intention, and a commitment to long-term healthspan. Key takeaways: Addressing Men's Health Concerns: Acknowledging and tackling issues like erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular health can lead to significant long-term benefits. Building and Maintaining Muscle Mass: Engaging in resistance training and focusing on compound movements is crucial for combating age-related muscle loss. Navigating Aging as an Opportunity: By understanding sarcopenia, men can leverage resistance training and proper nutrition to remain healthy and active well into their later years. Optimizing Health through Blood Work: Regular testing of biomarkers can provide critical insights that help improve lifestyle and health decisions. The Role of Testosterone: Understanding and managing testosterone levels through professional guidance can profoundly impact men's health and energy levels. More About Christian Palmer: Christian helps men reignite their vigor, build unshakable confidence, and become the strongest version of themselves through getting lean, building muscle and conquering nutrition. With over a decade and a half of coaching and hundreds of client transformations, he specializes in guiding men to get lean, build muscle, optimize hormones, and overcome challenges like diabetes, low testosterone, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and digestive issues. His passion for men's health began when his mother was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. After helping her lose weight, reverse her condition, and eliminate the need for insulin, he committed his life to empowering others through nutrition and strength. During his years at Equinox, Christian coached countless men over 40 who battled low energy, joint pain, diminished confidence, and the pressure of providing for their families. Helping them reclaim their edge inspired him to launch Relentless Fitness and Nutrition. Bodybuilding is Christian's personal standard of excellence. It's his way of pushing his own limits and embodying the discipline and resilience that he helps men forge in their own lives. His journey serves as a model for clients who want to become the badass 2.0 version of themselves. Christian's mission is simple: help men build a body they're proud of, lead their families with strength, and live with the confidence of a man who refuses to settle. Website Instagram Facebook Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

Chronic disease now affects 76 percent of American adults, which shows a widening gap between higher healthcare spending and worsening national health. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Chris Turnpaugh to explore why the United States has become so chronically ill and why our current medical model, which excels in acute care, struggles with long-term metabolic and inflammatory conditions. Our discussion focuses on the need for a proactive healthcare system that identifies early patterns instead of waiting for disease to reach a crisis point. We talk about the limitations of traditional blood tests, the importance of understanding subtle dysfunction before it becomes pathology, and how lifestyle and environmental factors shape the progression of chronic illness. Early recognition and root-cause medicine form the foundation of better health outcomes. We also highlight emerging tools that are transforming integrative care, including functional peptides like BPC157 and strategies that support mitochondrial health and cellular energy. Dr. Turnpaugh offers a clear and practical perspective on how healthcare can evolve to improve vitality and help patients thrive throughout the chronic disease era. Key takeaways: The U.S. healthcare system needs to transition from reactive sick care to proactive chronic disease management to address the country's worsening health statistics. Identifying disease patterns and root causes early-on can prevent full-blown diagnoses and improve patient outcomes. Functional peptides such as BPC157 and the role of inflammation management can significantly impact recovery from musculoskeletal and chronic conditions. Integrated health practices that combine multiple disciplines and focus on the whole person are essential for effective treatment and patient care. Mitochondrial health is crucial for overall wellbeing, influencing everything from chronic disease risk to cognitive health. More About Dr. Chris Turnpaugh: Dr. Chris Turnpaugh is the Founder and Clinic Director of Turnpaugh Health and Wellness Center, where he leads a team of over 20 clinicians in a collaborative care setting. A pioneering force in functional and integrative medicine, he brings more than two decades of clinical expertise, innovation, and leadership to the field. His unique approach blends the art of healing with the science of systems biology through the principles of functional medicine, always with a focus on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease. Dr. Turnpaugh graduated from Life University and completed his post-doctorate in functional neurology. His passion for functional medicine was sparked in 1995 after attending a seminar with Dr. Jeffrey Bland, the father of functional medicine, while seeking ways to help a patient living with ALS. Inspired by the promise of root cause medicine, he opened the Turnpaugh Health and Wellness Center in 1999. With extensive experience supporting patients facing complex, chronic, autoimmune, and neurological conditions—including Lyme disease, thyroid and hormonal disorders—Dr. Turnpaugh is recognized for his compassionate, whole-person approach. He thrives on the care team model, sharing knowledge not only with patients and colleagues, but also with providers across the country, teaching on topics such as blood chemistry, thyroid conditions, and brain health. Website Instagram Facebook Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Osansky to uncover the hidden connections behind thyroid health and autoimmune conditions like Graves' disease and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Sharing his personal journey with Graves, he blends firsthand experience with medical expertise to reveal why so many patients struggle with conventional approaches. The discussion explores the often-overlooked factors that influence thyroid function — from gut health, stress, and environmental exposures to diet, lifestyle, and supplementation. Dr. Osansky breaks down how blood markers, autoantibodies, and hormone conversion pathways can guide a more personalized and effective approach to healing. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of why treating the thyroid alone isn't enough and how addressing the root causes can transform outcomes. We also dive into nuanced topics like the role of iodine, the impact of toxins, and the gut-thyroid connection, giving practical insights for managing autoimmunity and supporting long-term health. Whether you're living with thyroid disease, curious about functional medicine, or seeking actionable strategies to optimize your health, this episode offers expert guidance and empowering takeaways to navigate the path to true thyroid balance. Key takeaways: Prevalence and Diagnosis: Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, including Graves' disease and Hashimoto's thyroiditis, have specific blood markers crucial for accurate diagnosis. Triggers and Causes: Stress, smoking, iodine intake, and gut health are identified as significant triggers for autoimmune thyroid disorders. Holistic Management: A combination of dietary changes, such as gluten-free and paleo diets, and lifestyle adjustments plays a key role in managing thyroid health. Natural Remedies: Herbs like bugleweed and motherwort, along with nutrients like selenium and vitamin D, can be beneficial in symptom management. Conventional vs. Functional Medicine: Conventional treatments focus on symptom suppression, whereas functional medicine promotes addressing root causes through a holistic approach. More About Dr. Eric Osansky: Dr. Eric Osansky is a chiropractor, clinical nutritionist, and a certified functional medicine practitioner who has been helping people with hyperthyroidism and Graves' disease since 2009. He is the author of the books "Natural Treatment Solutions for Hyperthyroidism and Graves' Disease", "The Hyperthyroid Healing Diet", and "Hashimoto's Triggers", and is the host of the Save My Thyroid podcast. Dr. Osansky was personally diagnosed with Graves' disease in 2008 and was able to restore his health through a natural approach. Website Instagram Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube