Walk, Don't Run to the Doctor with Miles Hassell, MD

In this episode of Walk Don't Run to the Doctor, Dr. Miles Hassell discusses the growing problem of polypharmacy — taking too many medications at once — and why it can create serious health risks, especially for older adults. Dr. Hassell explains how medication "cascades" happen, why many drug combinations are never actually studied for safety, and how lifestyle changes can often reduce the need for prescriptions. Through real patient stories, including an 80-year-old woman whose independence was restored after reducing unnecessary medications, this episode highlights the importance of reviewing prescriptions carefully, coordinating care between providers, and focusing on long-term health through lifestyle medicine. Key Takeaways: Why taking 5+ medications can increase the risk of falls, memory issues, and loss of independence How "polypharmacy cascades" lead to more prescriptions and more side effects The importance of reviewing all medications with your doctor and pharmacist What the Beers List is and why older adults should know about it How exercise, nutrition, and weight loss can sometimes reduce the need for medications Why using a single pharmacy can help catch dangerous drug interactions Get your copy of Good Food Great Medicine, 4th ed.: https://a.co/d/1D6hIYM More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Write us a letter, We love to hear from you! Send questions, comments, and support to: GreatMed.org Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: info@GreatMed.org EIN: 88-326-7056 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229 #Polypharmacy #LifestyleMedicine #HealthyAging #MedicationSafety #DrMilesHassell #WalkDontRunToTheDoctor

What if the key to protecting your brain—and avoiding dementia—wasn't found in a prescription, but in your daily habits? In this episode of Walk, Don't Run to the Doctor, Dr. Miles Hassell dives into the powerful connection between exercise, leisure activities, and long-term brain health. Backed by decades of research, including a 40-year study showing up to a 90% reduction in dementia risk, this conversation explores how simple lifestyle choices can dramatically impact your future. Whether you're in your 20's or your 70's, the habits you build today can shape your cognitive health for years to come. Key Takeaways: Regular exercise can reduce the risk of dementia by up to 90% over time. Activities that combine physical + mental + social engagement (like dancing or sports) offer the greatest brain benefits. Higher intensity exercise (getting short of breath) leads to stronger cognitive and physical outcomes. Variety in movement improves balance, bone strength, and injury prevention as you age. Purpose and social connection play a major role in protecting brain function—even with physical signs of aging. Lifestyle choices often have a greater long-term impact than medical interventions. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:16 The 40-Year Study on Exercise & Dementia 01:48 Why This Podcast Exists (Taking Control of Your Health) 02:40 Why Brain Health Starts Early 04:36 Leisure Activities & Dementia Risk 06:23 Why Exercise Impacts Nearly Everything 07:40 How Hard You Should Be Exercising 08:16 The Power of Multimodal Activities (Like Dancing) 08:56 Can You Really Reduce Dementia Risk by 90%? 09:31 Combining Exercise, Diet, and Social Life 10:25 Why Variety in Exercise Matters 11:42 Preventing Falls, Injuries, and Decline 12:08 The Role of Purpose in Brain Health 13:09 Final Thoughts: Live Better, Longer Get your copy of Good Food Great Medicine, 4th ed.: https://a.co/d/1D6hIYM More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Write us a letter, We love to hear from you! Send questions, comments, and support to: GreatMed.org Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: info@GreatMed.org EIN: 88-326-7056 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229 This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. #wellness #podcast #wellnessforlife #lifestyle #healthandwellnessgoals

The new 2026 USDA dietary guidelines are here — and they represent one of the most dramatic shifts in nutrition advice in decades. Some say the food pyramid has been turned upside down. Others argue it's finally been turned right-side up. In this episode, we break down what actually changed, why it matters, and how the new recommendations move closer to an evidence-based, whole-food approach to health. We explore processed foods, refined carbohydrates, protein, fats, dairy, the microbiome, and the deeper question: Are we aiming for health results — or just following a food philosophy? If you care about reducing disease risk, improving energy, and needing doctors less, this episode is for you. 00:00 – Why Food Is Medicine 00:28 – The 2026 USDA Guidelines: What Changed? 01:08 – Is the Pyramid Upside Down? 02:00 – Red Meat, Saturated Fat & The Big Debate 03:00 – Results vs. Food Philosophy 04:23 – What do Studies Show? 05:11 – Three Lines of Evidence to Evaluate Diet Advice 05:52 – Processed Foods 08:18 – Refined Carbohydrates & White Flour 09:47 – What Happens When You Cut Processed Foods? 10:34 – Why Cooking at Home Changes Everything 11:35 – Resources: Good Food, Great Medicine & Substack Key Takeaways: • The 2026 guidelines are far more whole-food focused than previous versions • They are significantly more critical of processed foods and refined carbohydrates • Most ultra-processed foods are industrial constructs — not traditional foods • Highly refined carbs (white flour, sugar, many packaged foods) are linked to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and more • Dramatically reducing processed foods (to • Whole-food omnivorous diets consistently perform well in major health outcome studies • Only a small percentage of Americans actually follow evidence-based dietary patterns • Cooking at home naturally reduces processed food intake and improves budget, health, and social connection • Food decisions should be judged by health results — not ideology Get your copy of Good Food Great Medicine, 4th ed.: https://a.co/d/1D6hIYM More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Write us a letter, We love to hear from you! Send questions, comments, and support to: GreatMed.org Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: info@GreatMed.org EIN: 88-326-7056 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229 This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. #wellness #podcast #wellnessforlife #lifestyle #healthandwellnessgoals

Calcium supplements are everywhere—but do they actually help your bones? In this episode, we unpack the "calcium conundrum" and challenge the common belief that more supplements automatically mean stronger bones. You'll learn why food-based calcium behaves very differently in the body than pharmaceutical calcium supplements, why most studies show little to no benefit of supplements for adult bone health, and how supplements may even carry unexpected health risks. We focus especially on bone health in adults and postmenopausal women, while emphasizing practical, food-first strategies that actually support long-term health. If you're concerned about osteoporosis, fractures, or bone density—and want to make informed, evidence-based choices—this episode will help you rethink calcium from the ground up. Learn why food, not pills, should be your foundation for bone health. Subscribe for more conversations on nutrition, disease prevention, and putting the power of health back in your hands. Key Takeaways Calcium supplements ≠ food calcium Pharmaceutical calcium is metabolized differently and does not offer the same benefits as calcium from whole foods. Most adult studies show supplements don't prevent fractures In typical adult populations, calcium supplements generally fail to improve bone density or reduce fracture risk. Food sources of calcium are safer and more effective Calcium-rich foods support bone health without the cardiovascular, kidney stone, or other risks linked to supplements. Absorption matters more than intake Only 10–50% of dietary calcium is absorbed, depending on diet quality, gut health, medications, activity level, and overall lifestyle. Postmenopausal bone loss isn't just about calcium Bone loss during this stage appears to be largely unrelated to calcium intake alone. Dairy and non-dairy options make adequacy achievable It's not hard to reach ~800–1200 mg/day from food alone, even without supplements. Cultured dairy is preferred Yogurt, kefir, and aged cheeses provide calcium plus beneficial cofactors like protein, vitamin K, and healthy fats. Fortified foods aren't the same as real food Calcium-fortified products still deliver industrial calcium, not naturally integrated nutrients. Supplements can distract from better nutrition Relying on pills may pull focus (and money) away from improving overall diet quality. Bottom line: think food first Your body knows how to handle real food—bone health starts there. This episode is a call to lead your own healthcare journey with humility, curiosity, and intention—so you can make decisions that truly align with your values and goals. Get your copy of Good Food Great Medicine, 4th ed.: https://a.co/d/1D6hIYM More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Write us a letter, We love to hear from you! Send questions, comments, and support to: Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: info@GreatMed.org EIN: 88-326-7056 GreatMed.org 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229 This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. #wellness #podcast #wellnessforlife #lifestyle #healthandwellnessgoals

What does health, purpose, faith, and play all have in common? In this episode of Walk, Don't Run to the Doctor, we dive into why movement, community, and purpose are essential to lifelong health—especially for kids and families. Miles Hassell MD sits down with Tyler LaRoche, pastor and founder of Legacy Sports, to talk about reclaiming play as a tool for discipleship, physical health, and community building. From the dangers of sedentary lifestyles and overreliance on pain medications to the role of purpose in disease prevention, this conversation challenges modern assumptions about health and healing. This episode explores how getting outside, staying active, and living with intention can reduce disease, improve recovery, and help people of all ages thrive—physically, mentally, and spiritually. Key Takeaways: Why "go outside and play" may be one of the most powerful health prescriptions How sports and community build character, purpose, and faith The connection between purpose, longevity, and reduced disease risk Why pain is not always the enemy—and how overusing pain meds can slow healing The truth about supplements, "fat burners," and fitness shortcuts Simple, sustainable habits that support lifelong health (even just 1 minute at a time) How movement, nutrition, and purpose create a "health retirement account" More on Legacy Sports Foundation: https://www.legacysportsfoundation.net/ Get your copy of Good Food Great Medicine, 4th ed.: https://a.co/d/1D6hIYM More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Write us a letter, We love to hear from you! Send questions, comments, and support to: Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: info@GreatMed.org EIN: 88-326-7056 GreatMed.org 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229 This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. #wellness #podcast #wellnessforlife #lifestyle #healthandwellnessgoals

The holidays don't have to mean weight gain, regret, or a health reset in January. In this Christmas special, Miles Hassell MD breaks down how to fully enjoy the season while protecting your long-term health. Learn why ultra-processed foods, excess sugar, and alcohol hit harder than you think—and how simple planning can help you celebrate without self-sabotage. You can enjoy treats, stay active, and feel great heading into the new year. Key Takeaways: You can enjoy the holidays without gaining weight or wrecking your health Ultra-processed foods, sugar, and excess alcohol have real short- and long-term consequences Never go to holiday events hungry—protein, fat, and fiber are your secret weapons Plan ahead so self-control isn't your only defense Treats are okay in moderation—but ask: is it worth the calories? Stay active, even in small ways, throughout the holiday season Help friends and family make better choices by setting the example Don't let food marketing define what the holidays are really about The Christmas season is about relationships, purpose, and setting yourself up for a healthier year ahead—not just brownies and peppermint mochas. [00:02] Focus on helping people gain health freedom [00:33] Two holiday groups: What group are you in? [01:36] Bad lifestyle choices have long-term health consequences; enjoy holidays without compromising health. [02:33] Challenges the norm of holiday weight gain; temporary indulgences have lasting impacts. [03:02] Holiday foods are problematic: ultra-processed, high in sugar/carbs, low in nutrients. Get your copy of Good Food Great Medicine, 4th ed.: https://a.co/d/1D6hIYM More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: info@GreatMed.org EIN: 88-326-7056 Write us a letter. We love to hear from you. This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. Send questions, comments, and support to: GreatMed.org 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229

In this episode of Walk, Don't Run to the Doctor, we take a deep dive into statins, their true benefits, their real risks, and the massive role lifestyle plays in shaping heart disease outcomes. Rather than accepting oversimplified medical advice, this episode empowers you to think critically, understand uncertainty in medicine, and make fully informed decisions about your own health. You'll learn how to interpret risk statistics (like relative vs absolute risk), why lifestyle may outperform medication for many people, and why statins are helpful for some—yet potentially unnecessary or harmful for others. If you've ever been told "your cholesterol is high, you need a statin," this episode will give you the tools to ask better questions and understand whether that advice truly applies to someone like you. Key Takeaways: -Medical uncertainty is real — many "facts" are actually opinions without solid or applicable evidence. -Statins help some people more than others: -Strong evidence for people who already had a heart attack. -Much smaller benefit (sometimes minimal) for healthy, active people without prior heart disease. -Absolute vs. relative risk matters: -A "25% reduction in risk" may really mean only 1 fewer event per 100 people. -Lifestyle changes can reduce risk by 50–80%, often outperforming statin benefits—especially for people who exercise, eat whole foods, avoid smoking, keep weight down, and drink moderately. -Statin risks are real: Muscle pain: up to 1 in 10 Diabetes risk increased: about 1 in 200 Possible cognitive impairment (enough for an FDA warning) Polypharmacy (multiple medications) increases uncertainty and side-effect risks. Get your copy of Good Food Great Medicine, 4th ed.: https://a.co/d/1D6hIYM More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: info@GreatMed.org EIN: 88-326-7056 Write us a letter. We love to hear from you. This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. Send questions, comments, and support to: GreatMed.org 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229 Check out this video on Completely Rethinking the Link Between Statins, Cholesterol, & Heart Disease, w/ Dr. Aseem Malhotra: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-RU3Ouxt1vs&t=251s References from today's podcast: Ioannidis J. P. (2005). Why most published research findings are false. PLoS medicine, 2(8), e124. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.0020124 Luo, Y., Liu, J., Zeng, J., & Pan, H. (2024). Global burden of cardiovascular diseases attributed to low physical activity. American journal of preventive cardiology, 17, 100633. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajpc.2024.100633 Ye, Z., Det al. (2025). Association of statins use and genetic susceptibility with incidence of Alzheimer's disease. The journal of prevention of Alzheimer's disease, 12(2), 100025. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tjpad.2024.100025

This week we are featuring a recent podcast recorded at George Fox University, called George Fox Talks. Erika Barber, MD talks with Miles Hassell MD about taking ownership of your own health. Through thoughtful eating and by giving your palate a chance to develop an appreciation for the richness of available food, you can have a transformative impact on the quality of your life and your body's ability to resist disease. Watch the full episode through the links provided. YouTube: https://youtu.be/qgJ8_2x1tZI?si=wX6bKhsp4Dwds1IZ Apple Pocasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-pills-arent-saving-you-but-this-might/id1587962691?i=1000727050135 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5cqJmDy7hDJKIaa4SyXHyK?si=QWzIqK7dShm7w6YNMVfCRw Get your copy of Good Food Great Medicine, 4th ed.: https://a.co/d/1D6hIYM More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: info@GreatMed.org EIN: 88-326-7056 Write us a letter. We love to hear from you. This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. Send questions, comments, and support to: GreatMed.org 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229

In this episode of Walk, Don't Run to the Doctor, Miles Hassell MD sits down with author Mac Lake to explore the connection between faith, health, and personal responsibility. Mac Lake is a highly respected leader, author, and founder of Multiply Group, where he helps leaders and organizations develop strategies to multiply their leadership impact. An inspirational trainer and leadership coach, Mac is gifted at simplifying complex ideas into actionable strategies that anyone can implement to achieve transformative results in their personal life, team, and organization. He has written seven books, including The Multiplication Effect, Leading Yourself (forward written by John Maxwell), and The Discipling Leaders Series, offering practical tools for leadership development. Mac and his wife, Cindy, live in Charleston, SC. Together, Mac and Dr. Hassell discuss how everyday choices about food, exercise, and discipline have a far greater impact on long-term well-being than prescriptions or quick fixes. From processed foods to self-discipline, the conversation highlights how living with purpose and stewardship over our health can transform not only our own lives but also the lives of those around us. Key Takeaways: Personal responsibility matters: Good decisions about diet and lifestyle often outweigh a doctor's prescription. Whole foods over processed foods: Industrial oils, refined carbs, and protein powders are linked to disease, while traditional, whole foods support health. Discipline turns into habit: Self-control in health choices eventually becomes automatic, shaping long-term well-being. Exercise with purpose: Frequent, simple activity—even just a few minutes a day—improves health and prevents decline. Faith and stewardship: Caring for your body honors God, sets an example for family, and reduces avoidable burdens on yourself and others. Purpose protects the brain: Living with intention and meaning reduces risks of cognitive decline and promotes a healthier, more productive, more enjoyable life. Get your copy of one of Mac Lake's books here: https://multiply-group.myshopify.com/collections/books Get your copy of Good Food Great Medicine, 4th ed.: https://a.co/d/1D6hIYM More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: info@GreatMed.org EIN: 88-326-7056 Write us a letter. We love to hear from you. This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. Send questions, comments, and support to: GreatMed.org 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229 Follow Mac Lake here: Instagram - @multiply_group YouTube - youtube.com/maclake Facebook - facebook.com/maclake24 LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/maclake Blog - maclakeonline.com Website - multiplygroup.org

In this episode, Miles Hassell, MD answers heartfelt listener letters about gallbladder disease and knee pain—sharing real-life stories of patients who successfully avoided major surgeries through lifestyle medicine. From tackling gallstones with diet and exercise to managing osteoarthritis without knee replacement, Dr. Hassell highlights how small, consistent changes—like removing sugar, eating a Mediterranean-style diet, incorporating probiotic foods, and staying active—can dramatically improve health outcomes. Key Takeaways: Gallbladder health: Slow weight loss, high-fiber foods (like beans, whole intact grains, and celery), healthy fats (like olive oil & egg yolks), and eliminating ultra-processed foods can reduce the need for surgery. Joint health: Motion is medicine—combined with diet, probiotics, and targeted supplements (gelatin, glucosamine, MSM, niacinamide), some people improve without joint replacement. Check with a doctor before starting a supplement. Lifestyle first: Whether preventing or recovering from disease, nutrition, fitness, and weight management are powerful tools. Coffee lovers rejoice: Coffee itself is protective against gallbladder disease! Also make sure to check out episode 23: Osteoarthritis Unlocked Get your copy of Good Food Great Medicine, 4th ed.: https://a.co/d/1D6hIYM More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: info@GreatMed.org EIN: 88-326-7056 Write us a letter. We love to hear from you. This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. Send questions, comments, and support to: GreatMed.org 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229 #LifestyleMedicine #GallbladderHealth #JointHealth #PreventiveCare #WalkDontRunPodcast

In this episode, Miles Hassell MD breaks down the often misunderstood world of cooking oils. From olive oil to avocado oil, he explains which fats support long-term health—and which ones belong in the trash. Key Takeaways: Extra virgin olive oil is the only widely available oil with strong evidence supporting real health benefits. Avocado, canola, and other industrial oils are ultra-processed, taste terrible without the help of BigFood processing techniques, and lack nutritional value. Avocados are good food though...thinly sliced, they top any meal or snack nicely. Don't be fooled by labels like "cold-pressed"—many oils still undergo high-heat processing (up to 500°F). Call the manufacturer to find out how their oil is processed. Traditional fats like butter, coconut oil, and sesame oil—used historically and minimally processed—may be better choices. Smoke point isn't a valid reason to choose industrial oils; smart cooking techniques can protect food quality without sacrificing health. This episode helps you rethink what you're using in your kitchen—and why less processed, evidence-based choices matter. 🎧 Subscribe for more insights on healthy living through simple, proven lifestyle shifts. #HealthyFats #OliveOil #VegetableOils #WholeFoods #WalkDontRunPodcast #EvidenceBasedLiving Get your copy of Good Food Great Medicine, 4th ed.: https://a.co/d/1D6hIYM More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: info@GreatMed.org Write us a letter. We love to hear from you. This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. Send questions, comments, and support to: 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229

Is there a better, safer, FREE alternative to Ozempic (and other GLP-1 drugs)? In this episode of Walk, Don't Run to the Doctor, Miles Hassell MD reacts to the growing buzz and shares a time-tested, evidence-based 3-step plan that outperforms popular weight loss drugs in the long run. As GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro surge in popularity, Dr. Hassell offers critical insight into their risks—like muscle loss, pancreatic complications, and long-term unknowns—while proposing a practical, natural alternative for lasting weight loss and better metabolic health. Key Takeaways: Why Big Pharma's track record with weight loss drugs demands caution The secret 3-step plan: Eat 6 servings of fruits & veggies, 3 minutes of daily exercise, reduce refined carbs Bonus tips: Bust cravings by eating protein with every meal, daily probiotics, and unlock the power of preemptive eating Why this plan costs nothing, has zero side effects, and starts showing results in just one week A timely message in light of the weight loss drug headlines—who should be in control of your health? More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Get your copy of Good Food Great Medicine. https://a.co/d/ajAzYzo Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: info@GreatMed.org Write us a letter. We love to hear from you. This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. Send questions, comments, and support to: 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229 References: Chen, X., et al. (2025). Association of dietary fiber intake with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in diabetes and prediabetes. Diabetology & metabolic syndrome, 17(1), 231. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40533827/ Look, M., et al. (2025). Body composition changes during weight reduction with tirzepatide in the SURMOUNT-1 study of adults with obesity or overweight. Diabetes, obesity & metabolism, 27(5), 2720–2729. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39996356/ Wilding, J., et al. (2021). Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. The New England journal of medicine, 384(11), 989–1002. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33567185/ Tinsley, G. M., & Heymsfield, S. B. (2024). Fundamental Body Composition Principles Provide Context for Fat-Free and Skeletal Muscle Loss With GLP-1 RA Treatments. Journal of the Endocrine Society, 8(11),https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39372917/ Neeland, I. J., et al. (2024). Changes in lean body mass with glucagon-like peptide-1-based therapies and mitigation strategies. Diabetes, obesity & metabolism, 26 Suppl 4, 16–27. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38937282/ Sato, M., et al. (2023). Relationships among Postprandial Plasma Active GLP-1 and GIP Excursions, Skeletal Muscle Mass, and Body Fat Mass in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Treated with Either Miglitol, Sitagliptin, or Their Combination: A Secondary Analysis of the MASTER Study. Journal of clinical medicine, 12(9), 3104. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37176545/ Monami, M., et al. (2017). Safety issues with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer and cholelithiasis): Data from randomized controlled trials. Diabetes, obesity & metabolism, 19(9), 1233–1241. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28244632/ Anderson, S. L., & Trujillo, J. M. (2010). Association of pancreatitis with glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist use. The Annals of pharmacotherapy, 44(5), 904–909. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20371755/ Kapoor, I., Sarvepalli, S. M., D'Alessio, D., Grewal, D. S., & Hadziahmetovic, M. (2023). GLP-1 receptor agonists and diabetic retinopathy: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Survey of ophthalmology, 68(6), 1071–1083. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37454782/ Bikou, A., et al. (2024). A systematic review of the effect of semaglutide on lean mass: insights from clinical trials. Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy, 25(5), 611–619. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38629387/ Jalleh, R. J., et al. (2024). Clinical Consequences of Delayed Gastric Emptying With GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Tirzepatide. The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 110(1), 1–15. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39418085/ Berg, S. AMA. (2023). Questions patients may have about weight-loss drugs. https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/questions-patients-may-have-about-weight-loss-drugs Friedman, J. (2025). America's up-and-down history with weight-loss drugs. https://www.history.com/articles/weight-loss-drugs-america

In Episode 35, we sit down with Miles Hassell, MD—internal medicine physician, author, and advocate for lifestyle-based health interventions—to explore the transformative power of cooking at home. Drawing from both clinical experience and personal practice, Dr. Hassell shares evidence-based insights into how preparing your own meals can support cancer survivorship, improve long-term health outcomes, and reduce the burden of chronic disease. Summary: Dr. Hassell emphasizes the crucial role that home-cooked, whole-food meals play in cancer prevention and recovery. He unpacks the science behind diet and disease, outlines the Mediterranean-style eating pattern, and encourages listeners to take ownership of their health through practical, sustainable choices. The episode also covers the cooking oil controversy, tips on meal planning, handling cravings, and the importance of community and family in the cooking process. Key Takeaways: Home cooking using whole foods significantly improves health outcomes, including cancer survival rates. The Mediterranean diet—rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, healthy fats, and lean proteins—is the most evidence-backed model. Extra virgin olive oil stands out as a key anti-cancer food. Avoiding highly processed foods and added sugars is essential for disease prevention and mental well-being. Planning ahead and enlisting support from friends or family makes healthy eating more achievable and sustainable. Whether you're navigating cancer survivorship or simply aiming to live better, this episode offers empowering, research-backed strategies for taking charge of your health—starting in your own kitchen. More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: info@GreatMed.org Write us a letter. We love to hear from you. This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. Send questions, comments, and support to: 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229