The Wellness Files with Kari Beal

After a seizure led to the discovery of a brain mass, FOX Carolina news anchor Tori Carmen shares the whirlwind from surgery to an unexpected malignant diagnosis and how recovery has challenged her physically and emotionally. One year later, she explains the tools that helped her cope (therapy, nature, faith, community) and the lifestyle shifts she’s made to support long-term health. 00:00 Intro02:23 Seizure night, ER trip, CT scan, loss of right-side function.04:12 Tumor location/size; next steps; wedding plans change; surgery set at Northwestern.05:28 Meningioma explained; surgery + early recovery; can’t drive; pathology surprise.07:23 Grade 3 malignant diagnosis; neuro-onc/radiology consults; choosing gamma knife.10:18 Radiation day + side effects; returning to work; hair loss grief/identity shift.13:18 Ongoing MRIs; seizure meds; rebuilding strength; stress on body/mind.14:27 Coping tools: therapy, walks, nature, prayer, dogs; purpose + advocacy.16:17 “Be kind” message; invisible battles; connection and support systems.22:28 New normal: rest, boundaries, saying no; redefining productivity.26:07 Staying active: weighted-vest walks, Pilates, shorter workouts; heat sensitivity.28:05 Nutrition/toxin reduction: local/organic, baking soda wash, fewer plastics/chemicals.28:50 Giving up alcohol; mocktails; better sleep/skin/gut.34:04 Western + functional medicine balance; tests, supplements, inflammation focus.38:20 Birth control + meningioma discussion; hormone caution + research.41:18 Migraine scare + ER fear; stress triggers; clear MRI.44:27 Fear of recurrence; faith + focusing on the present; advice to others.

A groundbreaking randomized trial in Kinston, North Carolina is testing fluoridated vs. non-fluoridated water in young children to produce the most rigorous evidence yet on fluoride’s real-world benefits today.   00:00 Intro01:01 Quick history setup: how fluoridation began and why it became widespread.01:20 Early clues: mottled teeth but fewer cavities; investigators suspect water.01:40 Fluoride identified in water; dental fluorosis linked to high levels.02:13 Grand Rapids becomes first to fluoridate; endorsements follow.02:38 UNC dentistry expertise and an under-the-radar, ongoing study.03:33 Kinston removes fluoride—setting up the WaterBeST Treatment Study.03:52 Observational vs. randomized research and why randomization matters.04:31 Study design: 200 families, blinded fluoridated vs. non-fluoridated bottled water.04:53 Measuring total fluoride exposure via toenail clippings.05:21 Potential expanded outcomes (e.g., IQ) if funded; results expected 2029.06:34 How fluoride’s cavity-prevention benefit has changed; biggest gains for low-income families.07:20 Promo: live event on lifestyle medicine (May 21, 2026) + wrap-up. 

Nisha Patel thought she was “too young” for perimenopause because her labs were normal, but her mood and body told a different story. We hear from nutrition coach, Bonnie Papajohn on how to spot the real signs, advocate for yourself, and use practical nutrition and workout tweaks to feel like you again.  Sign up to attend The Wellness Files LIVE! https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/019d96a1f3f77b339a49f323e7064032 02:15 Nisha’s symptom timeline (hot flashes, mood changes) and reluctance about HRT.03:19 Blood test “snapshot” comes back normal; self-doubt.03:52 Meeting Bonnie; coaching support and early wins.06:09 Health history context (IVF, hysterectomy, surrogate).06:33 Hormone testing options: blood vs saliva/DUTCH; tracking hormones across a day.08:11 Bonnie’s background + menopause specialization; why midlife care is changing.10:13 Nutrition changes: eating enough, protein/fiber goals, meal planning/real-life barriers.12:11 Sample meals + hydration; shifting toward chicken/seafood and “colorful” salads.14:54 Inflammation + food sensitivity: journaling, trial-and-tweak (soy/dairy/grains).16:41 Exercise changes: strength training focus, walking/low intensity vs HIIT/cortisol.23:20 Avoiding extremes; stress management + 80/20 approach.26:15 Advocating for yourself: don’t accept dismissal; make specific menopause appointments; find the right provider. 

Host Kari Beal joins activist and forager Robin Greenfield on a Hendersonville greenway to sample wild edibles and unpack what it means to eat (and live) in closer connection with the earth. Greenfield shares how he reprogrammed his mindset away from consumer culture and even his views on aging and death. 01:42 Homemade, compostable clothing/footwear + living without plastic03:05 Background: leaving a marketing career to live sustainably04:56 Foraging on the greenway: dead nettle; “weeds” as a human concept08:05 Wild onions as an easy starter plant; harvesting/preserving food10:30 Black walnuts + seasonal foraging11:18 Food safety + tasting dock; how to cook wild greens13:44 Foraging meat (roadkill framing), fishing, starches (yams)14:21 Doctor/dentist check-in: body comp + natural dental routine15:33 Another edible (pepper/winter cress) + flavor talk18:04 Tips for beginners: learn one plant at a time; dandelion/rose/grape list21:10 How he learned; building a 100% foraged diet over time22:50 Money/fame: living below poverty line; attention “for the earth”26:11 Vasectomy/choosing no kids/marriage to enable activism risks28:24 Travel + community support; staying with strangers/friends32:46 “Reprogramming the mind,” discomfort, aligning actions with beliefs35:57 Retirement, aging, death: community + acceptance of impermanence39:11 Closing questions for listeners: life you want + beliefs vs actions

Yale public health researcher Dr. Vasilis Vasiliou explains how alcohol raises cancer risk and why risk can depend on genetics, dose, and other exposures in your environment. The conversation also breaks down alcohol flushing syndrome, the “red wine is healthy” myth, and emerging concerns about PFAS (“forever chemicals”) interacting with alcohol.

A new clinical trial at the Cleveland Clinic may be preventing triple-negative breast cancer from recurring. And it could also help those with the BRCA-1, BRCA-2 genes. Patient Chase Johnson and Anixa Biosciences CEO, Dr. Amit Kumar, explain. 00:02:17 — Chase’s treatment path (chemo, surgery, radiation, oral chemo) and why she pursued added protection.00:03:37 — Trial logistics: waitlist, eligibility timing, travel to Cleveland, scans, and enrollment.00:04:51 — What the vaccine shots were like (3 injections, spaced 2 weeks apart).Study: https://consultqd.clevelandclinic.org/breast-cancer-vaccine-moves-one-step-forward00:05:31 — Side effects and why an immune response is considered expected.00:06:34 — Recurrence timing stats and the significance of the 5-year milestone.00:07:33 — Dr. Kumar explains the vaccine concept and alpha-lactalbumin target.00:10:10 — Trial status: phase one complete; phase two planning with more sites nationwide.00:11:22 — Potential rollout path: treatment, recurrence prevention, then prophylactic use.00:13:33 — Pregnancy/breastfeeding considerations: likely impacts milk production, not fertility.00:14:34 — Chase’s post-vaccine peace of mind; immunotherapy as the future.00:15:13 — Chase’s dog helped detect the lump; self-advocacy when dismissed as “too young.”00:19:40 — Why TNBC is hard to treat (no ER/PR/HER2 targets) and why it’s aggressive.00:20:44 — How to track phase two locations; importance of clinical trials and prevention vision.00:23:24 — Other cancer vaccine research (e.g., ovarian) and closing takeaways on vigilance.

This Heart Month episode features emergency physician Dr. Alyson McGregor on why heart disease is rising in younger women and how women’s heart risks and symptoms can differ from men’s due to biology, hormones, and research gaps.  00:10 | Women’s biology differs “to the cellular level”; hormone impacts01:22 | Heart disease #1 killer of women; awareness & self-advocacy02:12 | Research gap: women historically underrepresented in studies03:17 | Prevention: know sex-specific risks; precision-based care04:55 | Hormones, pregnancy, menopause & cardiovascular effects06:05 | Pregnancy complications (gestational diabetes, HTN) as future risk signals07:45 | Medication metabolism varies across menstrual cycle; dosing/side effects08:22 | Bloodwork vs. transient hormone levels; future wearables/sensors10:19 | Wearables (Oura) + data accuracy; women’s health innovation funding11:37 | Clinical trials: low female inclusion; AHA matching/repository idea13:18 | Women’s heart attack patterns/symptoms; SCAD/microvascular disease16:05 | CPR gap for women; hands-only CPR; training on female models18:55 | Sleep, inflammation, caregiver burden; melatonin study nuance24:24 | Chronic stress, inflammation & lifestyle risks26:18 | Saturated vs unsaturated fat; sex differences in fat storage/metabolism30:26 | Caffeine: coffee vs unregulated energy drinks/ingredients33:02 | Exercise zones: avoid extremes; mix strength, cardio, mobility36:15 | Empowered health: use personal data + physicians as consultants

Dr. Jonathan Leake explains why we lose NAD as we age, the difference between IV and a pill, and if you should try this biohack.

FOX Carolina's Kari Beal sits down with a doctor who is helping patients wean off of GLP-1s.

Did you know that around 80% of women experience baby blues after giving birth? Many others experience postpartum depression. Host Kari Beal speaks with Prisma Health reproductive psychiatrist Dr. Neha Hudepohl about why so many mothers struggle, how common perinatal mental health conditions are, the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression, and what real support looks like at home and in health care. We hear from three patients about baby blues and postpartum depression. The episode covers universal screening during and after pregnancy, hallmark symptoms, and more. If you are concerned about your safety or the safety of others the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is free, confidential, and here to help, 24/7.1-833-TLC-MAMAhttps://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/national-maternal-mental-health-hotline [01:19] How common it is. Perinatal mental health is a leading complication of pregnancy. Up to one in three are affected. Stigma and shame keep many silent.[03:00] New parent reality. Recovery, sleep loss, emotions, and anxiety that can take over daily life for some mothers.[05:05] Prisma Health approach. Universal screening during pregnancy and postpartum. Multiple touch points. Pediatricians are asked to check on mothers too.[06:46] Patient story. Nicole Parmalee. Isolating early weeks, learning about pelvic floor physical therapy and other supports, starting the New Moms School with eight week expert led groups and peer community.[09:50] Baby blues versus depression. Blues are very common and short lived in the first days to two weeks and then resolve. Depression is more persistent and impairing.[13:46] Patient story. Cambria in Atlanta. Pandemic pregnancy and birth, heavy sadness, virtual new parent support group helped.[16:30] Symptoms to watch. Lasting sadness, low energy, poor focus, appetite changes, insomnia even when the baby sleeps, anxiety and intrusive scary thoughts, difficulty bonding, and thoughts that the family is better without you. If you have thoughts of suicide call or text 988 for help.[19:30] How to help a mother. Ask how she is doing, listen without judgment, reflect what you notice, offer practical support based on what she wants and needs.[21:22] Patient story. Grace Lechtenberg in Omaha. Overwhelm without negativity toward self or baby, higher risk groups including military families, confidential care and medication helped, feeling better with time.[25:56] Access and cost. Prisma Health accepts many insurances and can connect families with financial counseling and community resources.[26:39] What should change. More postpartum touch points and a team approach across obstetrics, pediatrics, and primary care with clear referral paths.[27:51] Mother Infant Wellness Program. Care for pregnant and postpartum mothers with babies present to support bonding and attachment.[28:34] Wrap up and where to listen. Weekly release and encouragement to share and review. You are not alone and help is available.

Amid a measles outbreak in South Carolina, host Kari Beal explores the profound impacts of measles, rubella and the MMR vaccine through the powerful personal stories of three families. Hear from Christine Castle, whose sister was born with congenital rubella syndrome; Emmy Herman, whose sister suffered permanent brain damage from measles encephalitis; and Deirdre Downs, whose daughter developed a rare, life-threatening side effect (ITP) after the MMR vaccine. This episode provides transparent information, statistics, and diverse perspectives on vaccine decisions, aiming to empower parents to make informed choices for their children.

We explore regenerative agriculture, a new kind of farming where science meets sustainability and the land begins to heal itself. We'll visit Clemson University's Restoration Agriculture Farm with manager Coleman Scroggs to see its innovative practices firsthand. Then, hear from Roddy Pick of Kingbird Pastures on his journey to cultivate healthier produce. Plus, geomorphologist David Montgomery reveals surprising research on how regenerative practices could mean more mineral micronutrients, phytochemicals, and vitamins in our food.   Show notes: [01:12.960 - 01:38.840] Clemson Farm OverviewColeman describes the Clemson Restoration Agriculture Farm, an agroforestry demonstration farm known for its sunflowers and diverse crops. [01:38.840 - 02:25.360] Defining Regenerative FarmingRegenerative agriculture emphasizes good soil and environmental practices, often incorporating agroforestry, without a strict definition like organic farming. [02:25.480 - 05:00.780] No-Till & Soil HealthNo-till farming avoids disturbing soil to protect vital microorganisms, which are crucial for healthy, living soil. [05:01.020 - 07:59.620] Cover Cropping & Nitrogen FixationCover crops, like clover, are planted between cash crops to feed soil biology, enhance nutrients, control weeds, and fix atmospheric nitrogen for plant growth. [08:00.060 - 09:54.960] Reducing Synthetic FertilizersCover crops naturally enrich soil, reducing the need for energy-intensive synthetic nitrogen fertilizers. [09:55.240 - 12:22.880] Crop Rotation & Pest ControlRotating crops (e.g., corn and soybeans) prevents pest buildup. Regenerative farms may use minimal chemicals, adapting practices annually. [12:23.180 - 13:01.840] Roller Crimping for Weed ControlRoller crimping is a non-chemical method using cover crops to create a weed-suppressing mat. [13:03.500 - 13:57.080] Carbon Sequestration & Integrated LivestockPlants sequester carbon from the atmosphere. Holistic farms integrate livestock (e.g., bluebird boxes for pest control, grazing for fertilization). [13:59.900 - 14:57.100] Clemson's Regenerative MissionClemson aims to demonstrate diverse, sustainable agricultural methods beyond monoculture. [14:57.240 - 17:50.120] Clemson Farm HistoryThe land has a rich history, from Native American farming to plantations and modern agricultural research by Clemson, situated below Lake Hartwell. [17:51.900 - 19:58.720] Kingbird Pastures Case StudyRoddy Pick's Kingbird Pastures exemplifies regenerative farming with agroforestry, organic practices, no-till, grass-fed cattle, and a direct farm-to-table model. https://www.foxcarolina.com/video/2025/05/02/learning-about-regenerative-ag-kingbird-pastures/ [19:59.620 - 21:09.280] David Montgomery's ResearchGeomorphologist David Montgomery studied the nutritional impact of regenerative farming. [21:09.520 - 23:02.000] Study Findings: Improved Soil & NutritionA pilot study showed regenerative farms had double the soil organic matter and triple the soil health score, indicating improved soil health. https://peerj.com/articles/12848/# [23:02.880 - 26:53.300] Nutritional Benefits: PhytochemicalsCrops from regenerative farms had higher levels of mineral micronutrients and phytochemicals (antioxidants, anti-inflammatories essential for human health). [26:53.780 - 29:28.520] Measuring Nutrient Density & Soil EcologyNutrient density is the nutrient-to-calorie ratio, measured in labs. Soil ecology, influenced by farming practices, impacts nutrient content and plant health. [29:29.520 - 33:15.820] Research Challenges & Future OutlookPast research focused on organic vs. conventional. Future studies will explore the combined effects of regenerative practices to reduce inputs and boost nutrient density. [33:17.020 - 35:41.100] Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern TechRegenerative agriculture merges traditional methods (cover crops, rotations) with modern technology (no-till at scale, precision agriculture) for economic and environmental benefits. [35:41.260 - 39:11.380] Adaptability & Future VisionRegenerative principles are universal and adaptable to diverse farm scales and regions. The vision is for it to become the standard, economically viable farming approach. [39:12.500 - 41:47.580] Clemson's Agroforestry & Plant CommunitiesClemson's farm meticulously plants native fruit/nut trees and shrubs in specific communities (e.g., pines and blueberries) for optimal growth and yield. [41:47.940 - 42:25.980] Soil Health Monitoring at ClemsonRegular soil testing, including biological analysis, confirms increased soil health from Clemson's mulching and conservation practices. [42:26.340 - 44:48.340] Small-Scale Farming TipsFor small gardens, start with low-input perennials (blueberries, mulberries) and practice crop rotation with winter crops like snow peas or carrots. [44:49.260 - 45:59.100] Extension Offices & CompostLocal extension offices offer valuable resources for soil testing and planting advice. Compost breakdown depends on its components, also a topic for extension services. [45:59.240 - 47:23.520] Support Local & Farmer DialogueSupport local regenerative farms and communicate directly with farmers to understand their practices, especially regarding chemical use.

This podcast explores groundbreaking research on Alzheimer's disease, covering promising new treatments like the Benfotiamine clinical trial, immunotherapy, and current FDA-approved medications. It also highlights the critical role of lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, stress management, and social connection in improving cognitive function and potentially slowing the disease's progression.   [01:14.840 --> 01:29.560] Introducing Kirsten Porter StranskyHost introduces neuroscientist Kirsten Porter Stransky from USC School of Medicine, Greenville. [01:30.040 ] What is Alzheimer's Disease?Kirsten explains Alzheimer's as a neurodegenerative disease, affecting older and some younger adults.] [04:32.500 --] Benfotiamine Clinical TrialVitamin study for slowing Alzheimer's progression; discussion on pronunciation. https://www.benfoteam.org/ [06:08.360 ] Abby Krasouris's Report on Alzheimer's StatisticsReport on high Alzheimer's rates in the South and Southeast. Study at Emory University: https://www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2025/07/21/clinical-trial-offers-new-hope-alzheimers-patients-caregivers-georgia/ [10:20.780 ] Immune System to Fight Alzheimer'sUsing the immune system to combat Alzheimer's. https://www.news-medical.net/news/20250409/Tim-3-identified-as-promising-therapeutic-target-for-Alzheimers-disease.aspx [11:51.760 ] Current Alzheimer's Treatments: Donanemab and Lecanemab (Leqembi)Discussion on existing FDA-approved treatments. [12:55.400] Side Effects and TestingDr. John Absher, Prisma Health, discusses bleeding/swelling complications; extensive pre-testing is crucial. [13:40.680 ] Vizamyl PET Imaging Technology for visualizing amyloid plaque in the brain. [17:31.940 ] GLP-1 Drugs and Alzheimer's DiseaseWeight loss drugs and their potential impact on Alzheimer's. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10525376/#:~:text=Abstract,were%20retrieved%20from%20ClinicalTrials.gov [20:30.750 ] Lifestyle Factors and Improving CognitionLifestyle factors and their role in improving cognitive function. https://aaic.alz.org/releases-2025/us-pointer-study-results-announced.asp [24:12.070 --> 24:30.950] The MIND DietLow-sodium Mediterranean diet, emphasizing leafy greens, whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and reduced red meat/butter. [24:30.950 --> 24:55.270] Control Group and Small ChangesEven small lifestyle changes in the control group showed meaningful impacts against cognitive decline. [24:55.270 ] Doctor Ornish's Study: Reversing Alzheimer'sStudy with Alzheimer's patients aimed to slow or reverse disease via intensive lifestyle changes. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13195-024-01482-z [28:33.610 --> 29:02.330] Actionable Advice: What People Should Be Doing NowKirsten offers advice for individuals with Alzheimer's concerns. [29:02.490 --> 29:36.150] Power of Lifestyle ModificationsLifestyle changes are powerful for preventing/treating Alzheimer's and chronic conditions. [29:36.490 --> 29:42.890] Dietary RecommendationsMore fruits/vegetables, less ultra-processed foods, sugars, and processed meats. [29:42.890 --> 30:22.830] Physical ActivityEngage in enjoyable physical activity (gardening, walking, hiking) rather than forced exercise. [30:23.070 --> 30:36.210] Stress ManagementAddress chronic stress with mindfulness, meditation, or yoga to protect brain function. [30:36.910 --> 31:00.530] Importance of Social ConnectionFace-to-face social connection is crucial for brain health and happiness. [31:01.390 --> 31:33.770] Buffering Against Pathology: Education and ActivityHigher education and activity may buffer against Alzheimer's pathology without cognitive impairment. [31:34.450 --> 32:40.890] Brain Games and EngagementStaying active, socially engaged, eating healthy, and using brain games can buffer pathology.