Wellness: Fact vs. Fiction

Fashionably Unwell – The Dark Side of America's "Wellness" Industry Oct 19, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, journalist, author, and former wellness addict, Rina Raphael. After personally falling victim to commodified wellness, Rina has dedicated her career to unveiling the truth behind this "un-well" industry. On this episode, Danielle and Rina delve into the variables that have steered society into adopting "quick fixes" through fashionable wellness trends and why we shouldn’t feel bad about falling for them. Tune in for unique insight, perspective, and realness surrounding wellness that might have you thinking twice about your next self-care investment.

Danielle and Rina discuss:

The dangerous lack of scientific evidence pertaining to commodified wellness
Marketing, well-funded messaging and its powerful nature
Why people lean towards alternative ways of healing and our flawed medical system
The importance of assurance when it comes to our health and how health "gurus" falsely sell assurance
How women, rather than men, are frequently targeted in the wellness space through scare tactics
Wellness mania and why it’s considered hyper-American
The ways in which we treat wellness as if it were fashion, and why this is so problematic

Rina Raphael is a health, wellness, technology, and women’s issues journalist. She’s made a name for herself in the media world, having served as a wellness industry reporter for Fast Company magazine before contributing to publications such as the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and Men's Health, among others. Her new book, The Gospel of Wellness: Gyms, Gurus, Goop, and the False Promise of Self Care, provides an inside look at the boom of the wellness industry, its seductive marketing, and why we’re all falling victim to it. Her wellness industry newsletter Well To Do covers trends and news and offers market analysis.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. All studies discussed can be found @wellnessfvfjournalclub. Follow Rina at @rrrins and find her new book The Gospel of Wellness: Gyms, Gurus, Goop, and the False Promise of Self Care

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A Masterclass in Cholesterol and Lipid Lowering Therapy with Dr. Thomas Dayspring (Part 2) Oct 12, 2022

Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert guest, world-renowned lipidologist, Dr. Thomas Dayspring, are back for part two of their masterclass in cholesterol and lipids. On today’s episode, Danielle and Thomas cover all the nitty-gritty details about the different FDA-approved cholesterol-lowering medications while also busting myths and misconceptions about statins. They also pay some attention to the forgotten step sister of lipidology—high triglycerides. If you are looking to support your cardiovascular health, this episode will leave you with an arsenal of tools to keep your cholesterol in check.

Dr. Belardo and Dr. Dayspring discuss:

Why statins are first line therapy, how they lower LDL cholesterol and the powerful data we have for them
The differences between the various types of statins
How Zetia (ezetimibe) is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood and when it is indicated for use
The different types of PCSK9 inhibitors, how they work, and how much they lower LDLC
Who has demonstrated mortality benefits from PCSK9 inhibitors and why they aren’t the first line of therapy instead of statins
ideal triglyceride ranges and medications available to lower them

Dr. Thomas Dayspring is a world-renowned expert on atherothrombosis, lipoprotein, vascular biology, and advanced lipoprotein testing. With an extensive background of over 37 years in medicine as a clinical lipidologist, Dr. Dayspring has dedicated his career to cardiovascular health. In addition to 17 years of devoted consulting for patients with the most complex lipid disorders in the country, he has served as the Chief Scientific Officer at two of the largest cardiovascular labs for more than 7 years. He is also an official board member of both the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Clinical Lipidology. Dr. Dayspring has given over 4000 lectures in all 50 states and is considered one of the most requested speakers in the U.S.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. All studies discussed can be found @wellnessfvfjournalclub. Follow Dr. Dayspring @Drlipid.

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A Masterclass in Cholesterol and Lipid Lowering Therapy with Dr. Thomas Dayspring (Part 1) Oct 07, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week for a special two-part episode with world renowned lipidologist, Dr. Thomas Dayspring, better known on his infamous twitter account as @Drlipid. On today’s episode, he dives headfirst into the world of lipidology, providing listeners with a detailed overview of all things cardiovascular health. Danielle and Thomas get right into the cardiovascular myths and misinformation out there, like the dangerous glamorization of certain diets and all natural supplements. So much necessary and educational ground to cover, so make sure to tune in for part 2 next week.

Dr. Belardo and Dr. Dayspring discuss:

What is considered normal vs. abnormal lipoprotein levels
The main differences between primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease
The misinformation surrounding ApoB proteins and atherosclerosis
Why the keto diet is a threat to cardiovascular health
Benefits of guideline-directed medical therapy
Dr. Thomas’ concerns with plant-based supplements for cholesterol treatment
The powerful history of statins and why Dr. Belardo and Dr. Dayspring stand behind them as a treatment for cardiovascular disease

Dr. Thomas Dayspring is a world-renowned expert on atherothrombosis, lipoprotein, vascular biology, and advanced lipoprotein testing. With an extensive background of over 37 years in medicine as a clinical lipidologist, Dr. Dayspring has dedicated his career to cardiovascular health. In addition to 17 years of devoted consulting for patients with the most complex lipid disorders in the country, he has served as the Chief Scientific Officer at two of the largest cardiovascular labs for more than 7 years. He is also an official board member of both the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Clinical Lipidology. Dr. Dayspring has given over 4000 lectures in all 50 states and is considered one of the most requested speakers in the U.S.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. All studies discussed can be found @wellnessfvfjournalclub. Follow Dr. Dayspring @Drlipid.

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Fitness Trackers & Wearables - Health or Hype? Sep 22, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, cardiologist and internal medicine physician Dr. Rohin Francis. Rohin is also a writer, comedian, and creator of the YouTube channel Medlife Crisis, where he tackles fascinating and offbeat science topics that don’t get covered elsewhere. On today’s episode, he covers the spectrum of all things exercise and cardiovascular disease related, with a sprinkle of humor (of course), and answers the burning question—is there such a thing as too much exercise? He may also help save you a few bucks as you eye up the latest flashy fitness tracker.

Danielle and Rohin discuss:

How much exercise the average person needs weekly to accrue health benefits
The causes of atrial fibrillation (A-fib) in high-performance athletes
Target heart rate training and the importance of moderate exercise
The advantages and disadvantages of smart tracking health and fitness devices
The data surrounding heart rate variability and what we actually need to worry about
The fascinating results of the Apple Watch study
Harmful physical and emotional effects of medical over-screening

Dr. Rohin Francis is a Consultant Cardiologist and a Doctoral Researcher at the University College London with a passion for science communication and education. Dr. Francis got his MBBS from St George's Hospital Medical School and trained as a physician at the Cambridge Deanery (Cambridge, UK) with a subspecialization in coronary intervention. Currently, Dr. Francis is undertaking a PhD on imaging techniques for acute myocardial infarction at University College London. Rohin has presented around the world and has been published extensively, including in The Guardian and numerous academic journals and websites.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. All studies discussed can be found @wellnessfvfjournalclub. Follow Rohin @medcrisis.

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Am I Actually Allergic? The Truth About Food Allergies, Intolerances, & “Sensitivities” Sep 14, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, pediatric allergist and immunologist Dr. David Stukus, for a myth-busting episode about food allergies, intolerances, and "sensitivities." Danielle and David crack down on food "sensitivity" scams and unnecessary, unvalidated tests that people all over social media are falling victim to. Even allergies have a dark side, so tune in to learn what is fact and what is, simply, fiction.

Danielle and David discuss:

The basic terminology and meaning of food allergies, sensitivities, and intolerances
The difference between IgG and IgE and why IgG testing isn’t validated or accurate
Low histamine diets and the pseudoscience claims these diets make
How to use a trial, elimination, and reintroduction diet to discover food intolerances
Why an oral food challenge is the gold standard for allergy testing
Ways to find a provider to get an accurate allergy diagnosis
Red flags for spotting allergy misinformation on social media

David Stukus, MD, is a Professor of Clinical Pediatrics in the Division of Allergy and Immunology. Prior to becoming the director of the Food Allergy Treatment Center, Dr. Stukus started the Complex Asthma Clinic at Nationwide Children's Hospital in 2011, which treats children with severe or difficult-to-treat asthma. He holds multiple leadership positions in the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI) and the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology and is one of twelve allergists invited as a member of the Joint Task Force for Practice Parameters. He is the Social Media Medical Editor for the AAAAI, where he produces and hosts their podcast "Conversations From the World of Allergy." He has been named a Top Doctor in Pediatric Allergy every year since 2015.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. All studies discussed can be found @wellnessfvfjournalclub. Follow Dr. Dave @allergykidsdoc.

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Calling the Shots - Botox, Filler & Feminism Sep 07, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, the highly sought-after facial plastic surgeon to the stars, Dr. Kay Durairaj. On today’s episode, Dr. Belardo gets a full rundown of the pros and cons of Botox, fillers, rhinoplasty, and liposuction, and the two share their favorite non-surgical treatments. Dr. Kay empowers her patients (including Danielle) to call their own shots when it comes to beauty and provides them with the autonomy to make decisions about their aesthetics that stay true to who they are. The pursuit of beauty is on your terms.

Danielle and Kay discuss:

The pretty vs. brainy dichotomy that is present in today’s society
The positive and negative effects of social media on beauty standards and self-image
The differences between non-surgical and surgical rhinoplasty and the costs associated with both interventions
What to look for on a specialist's resume to ensure you’re in good hands
What Kybella is, how it differs from liposuction, and its efficacy

Dr. Kay Durairaj completed her surgical training at UCLA and is a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery. Her expertise is in Botox and neurotoxins, facial injectables and fillers, and she was voted one of the top 100 injectors in the country by her peers. She is Chairman of the Department of Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery at Huntington Memorial Hospital, and she serves as an advisor to multiple aesthetic industry organizations.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. All studies discussed can be found @wellnessfvfjournalclub. Follow Dr. Kay @beautybydrkay.

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Fed Up Fact Check - Debunking Fiber Feuds with Science Aug 31, 2022

Can fiber actually cause death? How about heart attacks? Panic attacks? On today’s episode, the fiber queen herself, Dr. Danielle Belardo, and her expert guest registered dietitian, Dr. Kevin Klatt, discuss the scientific evidence around dietary fiber. There is a lot of stir about fiber after the release of Wondery's top podcast, Fed Up, about the phenomenon diet F-Factor, founded by registered dietitian Tanya Zuckerbrot. Danielle and Kevin are on the mic to settle the fiber feud and advise listeners if they really should fear the fiber. Tune in to hear the fiber facts and whether these two doctors will be placing their F-Factor orders anytime soon.

Dr. Kevin C. Klatt, PhD, RD is a nutrition researcher and registered dietitian who provides individualized medical nutrition therapy and health coaching to patients/clients. Dr. Klatt completed his doctoral work in nutrition at Cornell University and his dietetic training at the National Institutes of Health. He is currently a researcher at the Baylor College of Medicine.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. All studies discussed can be found @wellnessfvfjournalclub. Follow Kevin @kcklatt

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Eating for a Stronger Self – How Much Protein Do You Really Need? Aug 24, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, an internal and emergency medicine physician who has been dubbed the Latin Dr. Fauci, Dr. Mauricio Gonzalez-Arias. This week, Danielle and Mauricio dive into a topic that doesn’t get a lot of air time in the plant-based community but that is incredibly important—protein. It doesn't matter which area of the dietary spectrum you are in, this episode will be incredibly educational, informative, and helpful for you.

Danielle and Mauricio discuss:

What is protein, and why is it so important to include it in your diet?
The meaning of RDA and how it affects protein intake
The daily protein recommendations for increasing muscle mass and losing weight, as well as ways to increase your intake
The physical and psychological benefits of resistance training and tips to include more in your workout routine even if you don’t like it
High-quality, vegetarian protein sources
Amino acid composition in animal vs. plant proteins and how much leucine to include each day

Check out these free resources:

American College of Sports Medicine

EXRX

Dr. Mauricio González is a Mexican doctor who practices medicine in New York. He has a double major in internal medicine and emergency medicine from New York Medical College. Along with his wife, Mayte Moncada, he founded the Veggie Power Summit ® which is the largest congress in Latin America on plant-based nutrition. Various television networks have interviewed him to combat disinformation and he frequently collaborates with CNN en Español, Telemundo, Televisa, and Univision La Saga. He has also been interviewed by People Magazine, The Today Show, InStyle, and GQ Mexico and shared a forum panel with Dr. Tedros and Bill Clinton.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. All studies discussed can be found @wellnessfvfjournalclub. Follow Mauricio @dr.mauriciogonzalez and his wife Mayte @mayte_moncada_p.

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Worth the Weight? Breaking Down Bariatric Surgery Myths Aug 17, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, bariatric surgeon and obesity medicine specialist Dr. Garth Davis, for a myth-busting episode about weight loss surgery. Dr. Davis debunks the enormous amount of misinformation circling social media about the harm of these surgeries and provides an inside look into what you can expect before, during and after surgery. Danielle and Garth dive into the pros and cons of the most common weight loss surgeries and provide the facts so people can make an educated decision on whether bariatric surgery is right for them.

Danielle and Garth discuss:

The anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal tract
The history of gastric bypass surgery and why it causes weight loss
Myths and misconceptions surrounding bariatric surgery
Criteria to qualify for bariatric surgery
The long term effects and success rate of surgery
How to find a great surgeon and what kinds of questions to ask
Risks and benefits associated with bariatric surgery

Garth Davis, MD, FACS, FASMBS, is a board-certified bariatric surgeon and obesity medicine specialist physician in Houston, Texas. For more than 20 years, Dr. Davis has specialized in bariatric and general surgery and has performed thousands of weight loss surgeries. He is currently working at Houston Methodist West and Houston Methodist Downtown and serves as the Medical Director for the system’s Clinic For Chronic Metabolic Disease. He has started and led several of the largest multidisciplinary weight loss programs and is an invited keynote speaker on topics related to obesity and obesity surgery. Dr. Davis is a published author of two books: "Proteinaholic: How Our Obsession With Meat is Killing Us" and "The Expert’s Guide to Weight-Loss Surgery." He founded the two largest bariatric practices in Houston: the Houston Medical Clinic and the Davis Clinic.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Garth @drgarthdavis.

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Unpacking Food Myths - A Masterclass in Nutrition Epidemiology Aug 10, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, obesity and nutritional epidemiologist Dr. Deirdre Tobias, for a masterclass on nutrition epidemiology and its impact on public health. Diedre opens up her nutrition epidemiology toolbox to explain the research and data supporting healthy dietary patterns and what nutrition tips you can implement in your own life. Danielle and Deirdre also bust the myth that whole grains and fruit are evil, so forget what you’ve read on social media! Whether or not you're in the medical field or just a hobbyist trying to learn to interpret science in a more robust way, this is the episode for you.

Danielle and Deirdre discuss:

The basics of nutritional epidemiology and role of a nutritional epidemiologist
General healthy dietary patterns and the problems with a western diet
The reasons whole grains and fruits have been demonized
The table 1 method and how it can help you interpret scientific data

Dr. Deirdre Tobias is an obesity and nutritional epidemiologist at the Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School in Boston. She received her doctorate and postdoctoral training at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Dr. Tobias was appointed as the Academic Editor for the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2019. Her research focuses on the role of diet and lifestyle for obesity and its major chronic diseases, including gestational diabetes and type 2 diabetes, and has been published in leading peer-reviewed journals, including the New England Journal of Medicine and the Journal of the American Medical Association. She is assistant professor and co-Instructor for Nutritional Epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

For more information on the research Deirdre does at Harvard, visit www.hsph.harvard.edu/deirdre-tobias

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Deirdre @deirdre_tobias.

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Small Changes, Big Differences – Eating to Lower Cholesterol Aug 03, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo for the highly anticipated episode on nutrition and lipids. In Part 3 of the cholesterol series, Danielle addresses the impact of diet on cardiovascular disease risk and LDL cholesterol by sharing the key findings from a variety of research papers and studies. The main takeaway is that your overall dietary pattern is what matters most and no one food in one dose will cause disease. So go ahead, be an omnivore, vegan, pescatarian, or whatever works for you, as long as you’re including the advice from today’s episode.

This week Danielle addresses the following questions surrounding nutrition and lipids:

What is dietary cholesterol and how does it impact lipids?
How can you lower LDL cholesterol without raising triglycerides and reduce APOE?
Which interventions lower cardiovascular risk the most?
Which foods are high in saturated fats and what dietary recommendations lower the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and LDL cholesterol?
Why does polyunsaturated fat lower LDL cholesterol?
Which oils are better for your lipid levels?
What is fiber, why is it important in your diet, and how does it lower cholesterol?
Which foods are packed with viscous fiber, and how much per day should you consume?
What is a portfolio diet and what kind of impact does it have on LDL cholesterol?

Find all the papers and research studies discussed this week on Instagram @wellnessfvfjournalclub.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction

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All You Need to Know About Cholesterol Metabolism Jul 27, 2022

This week, Dr. Danielle is back for part two of her highly requested cholesterol series, where she is setting you up with the foundational knowledge about cholesterol and lipid metabolism. She covers why this topic is so important for your health, and she arms you with the tools to debate any cholesterol denier or self-proclaimed bio-hacker at your next dinner party. In order to truly understand the way nutrition, diet, lifestyle, and medications impact cholesterol and heart disease, you have to understand lipid metabolism. The Cholesterol class is in session!

On today’s episode, Danielle addresses the following questions surrounding cholesterol metabolism:

Why is lipid metabolism important?
Where does cholesterol actually come from and how does your body make it? And how does your body get rid of cholesterol?
What happens when cholesterol is turned into bile?
What happens to VLDL, LDL, and HDL particles in the body? Where do they go?
What happens when we eat food, including dietary cholesterol?
How do the cells in your small intestine play a role in lipid metabolism?
What are chylomicrons, what do they do, and why aren’t we measuring them?
How does our body know how to regulate the amount of cholesterol it makes?

And much more!

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction

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Why Everyone Should Care About Cholesterol Jul 20, 2022

This week, Dr. Danielle is hopping on the mic solo to dive into one of your most requested topics (drum roll, please) — cholesterol. As a cardiologist, lipids and cholesterol are practically her second language, and she has heard every question under the sun from her patients. In part one of this multi-part series, she covers the foundations of cholesterol, common terminology, and myths and misconceptions. Welcome to Cholesterol 101!

On today’s episode, Danielle addresses the following questions surrounding cholesterol:

What is it and is it true your body needs it?
How does LDL cholesterol cause heart disease?
What does a lipid panel tell you?
What is the difference between total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and apo B, and how does each one relate to cardiovascular risk?
What are some of the values we are looking to target to get an optimal lipid panel?
Is it true that high HDL cholesterol is beneficial?
What is the difference between small vs large LDL particles and how do they impact the risk of developing atherosclerosis?
How useful are Triglyceride/HDL ratios in determining cardiovascular risk?

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction

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The Full Spectrum – SPF & Sun Protection Must-Haves Jul 13, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, board certified dermatologist and the internet’s favorite skincare myth buster, Dr. Ranella Hirsch. Today’s episode addresses some of the biggest and longest-standing misconceptions about sunscreen. They share their SPF and sun protection must-haves and why the most important thing is to find a product that works for you.

Danielle and Ranella discuss:

How often you should apply sunscreen and how much you really need
Whether makeup with SPF protects your skin and how to layer your products
Common misconceptions about SPF, water resistant sunscreen, and the UV index
The latest hot topic that sunscreen makes you vitamin D deficient—is it true?
Differences between mineral, chemical, and DIY sunscreens

Dr. Ranella Hirsch is a board certified dermatologist highly sought after by media for her expertise in the fields of cosmetic and laser dermatology. She often lectures to physicians in the fields of laser surgery and cosmetic dermatology and is currently involved in a number of clinical studies of laser technologies and skin care. She’s also recognized as a leading mythbuster on Instagram, where she can be found as @RanellaMD. She is the co-founder of Atolla Skin, which was acquired last year by Function of Beauty.

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Personalized Nutrition – Too Good To Be True? Jul 07, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, clinical and academic dietitian Dr. Nicola Guess, as they unpack whether "personalized nutrition" is worth all the hype. It’s the latest hot topic all over social media, and with a new trend comes new supplements, testing kits, online programs, and apps. So, could this diet be the miracle worker it claims to be, or is this just another excuse for pseudoscientists to make a few bucks? Tune in to learn the facts (and fiction) about personalized nutrition and whether it’s just too good to be true.

Danielle and Nicola discuss:

What personalized nutrition actually is and why online programs can be problematic
Nutrition buzzwords such as microbiome and inflammation
Why the nutrition industry can get away with monetizing bogus products
The positive role big tech companies could play in the health industry

Dr. Nicola Guess is an experienced clinical and academic dietitian, registered in the UK and the US. Her clinical and research interests are in obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and cardiometabolic disease. She has worked in the NHS and currently runs a private consultancy. Her expertise in type 2 diabetes is globally recognized and she is a Diabetes UK Allied Health Professional Fellow, a National Institute of Clinical Excellence Scholar, a Winston Churchill Travel Fellow, and a Fulbright Scholar.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Nicola @dr__guess.

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Demystifying Mental Health Myths Jun 22, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, clinical psychologist Dr. Jonathan Stea, for a highly requested and informative episode about all things mental health. With the rise of pseudo-psychology circulating on social media, Dr. Stea has been on a mission to drown out the mental health misinformation noise by amplifying scientific communication in a digestible, creative way. Tune in to hear how Dr. Stea answers some important questions surrounding depression, anxiety, and much more.

Danielle and Jonathan discuss:

What depression and anxiety are and how they are diagnosed
Evidence-based therapies to treat depression, anxiety, and other disorders
Pharmaceutical treatment options including SSRIs and SNRIs and their effectiveness
The impact of exercise on mental health

Jonathan N. Stea, Ph.D., R. Psych., is a registered and practicing clinical psychologist and Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Calgary. Clinically, he specializes in the assessment and treatment of concurrent addictive and psychiatric disorders. He is interested in topics related to science communication and health misinformation in popular media, especially with respect to addiction and mental health. He is a coalition member of Science Up First which distributes and amplifies best-in-class, science-informed content surrounding COVID-19 and the COVID-19 vaccine. He is the co-editor of the forthcoming book Investigating Psychology: Pseudoscience, Fringe Science, and Controversies out in 2023.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Jonathan @jonathanstea and Science Up First @ScienceUpFirst.

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What Everyone Needs to Know about Medical Guidelines Jun 15, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, past Chief of Cardiology, author and women’s health advocate Dr. Martha Gulati. Martha is an expert in women’s heart health and an influential voice for women’s empowerment in the medical field. On today’s episode she sheds light on whether the health claims on your Instagram are fact or fiction and how guidelines are working to keep this from being detrimental to your health and wellness.

Danielle and Martha debunk myths and misconceptions surrounding:

The rigorous process of creating guidelines
How unbiased committees are created
Why medical guidelines are (always) better than anecdotal advise
How, even as a layman, you can use guidelines to ensure the credibility of your healthcare

Martha Gulati, MD is the President-Elect of the American Society for Preventive Cardiology. She was a Professor of Medicine and the inaugural Chief of Cardiology at the University of Arizona. She is the author of the best-seller, “Saving Women’s Hearts”. She served as the chair of the national chest pain guidelines that were released in late 2021. She recently joined the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute as a professor of cardiology and is the director of prevention, the associate director of the Barbra Streisand Women's Heart Center and holds the Anita Dann Friedman Endowed Chair in Women’s Cardiovascular Medicine and Research.

Check out Martha’s book - Saving Women’s Hearts HERE!

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Martha @drmarthagulati.

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Organic Food, GMOs & The Dirty Dozen - The Unexpected Truth Jun 08, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, media expert and creator of @foodsciencebabe, Erin. Erin is revealing the facts behind food science and exposing the harmful myths, trends, and truths of the food industry that have been plastered throughout the media over the past years. Danielle and Erin address the impacts that the food industry has on our health, the health of those working in the field, and whether we really need to worry about consuming pesticides. With the new-found knowledge from today’s episode, you’ll be able to make more educated and healthy food choices!

Danielle and Erin discuss:

Is organic food better than non-organic food?
The environmental impact of organic vs non-organic food
Should you be scared of eating pesticides?

Erin has a bachelor of science in Chemical Engineering from the University of MN, has worked in the conventional and organic food industries for over 10 years, and is the creator behind @foodsciencebabe where she challenges the beliefs of the food industry by using science based information to answer hard-hitting questions.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Erin @foodsciencebabe.

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Understanding Obesity – From Stigma to Solutions Jun 01, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, associate professor, author, and co-owner of the Bariatric Medical Institute, Dr. Yoni Freedhoff. Yoni is on a mission to destigmatize obesity and shed light on the life-changing pharmaceutical therapies available to patients. Yoni and Danielle address the impact weight stigma has on the quality of medical care for individuals with obesity and how we need to stop blaming patients for this complex, multi-factorial, neuro-hormonal condition. With these changes, the days of the diet guru will be dead and gone!

Danielle and Yoni discuss:

Solutions for healthcare providers to evaluate their own bias in order to improve the quality of care for patients
Advice for patients who have obesity to advocate for themselves while navigating this stigma in healthcare
The physical and mental health benefits of various treatments
Why patients deserve individualized, personalized recommendations for weight management

Yoni Freedhoff, MD, is an associate professor of family medicine at the University of Ottawa, and he is the founder and medical director of the Bariatric Medical Institute. He is the author of the #1 national bestseller, The Diet Fix: Why Diets Fail and How to Make Yours Work. Dr. Freedhoff is a sought-after international speaker and has made appearances on The Today Show, feature-length documentaries, The New York Times, and more.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Yoni @yonifreedhoff and check out his blog Weighty Matters.

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The Shady Side of Wellness - Spiritual Thinking & Conspiracy Theories May 25, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, multi-faceted author, media expert, and co-host of the Conspirituality Podcast, Derek Beres. Derek is pulling back the curtain on the wellness industry and exposing the harmful trends, tactics, and patterns of pseudoscience influencers that have turned spirituality into paranoia. Today’s eye-opening episode will leave you with the tools to weed through spiritual disinformation and recognize a “wellness” opportunist when you see one.

Danielle and Derek discuss:

The meaning and origins of conspirituality
How the wellness industry has been taken over by conspiracy theories and fake progressive wellness utopianism
How charismatic influencers exploit their followers and tips to avoid scamfluencers
The horseshoe effect in wellness and why it is a major red flag

Derek Beres is a Los Angeles based writer and the Senior Editor at Eco. Currently, he is co-writing Conspirituality: How New Age Conspiracy Theories Became a Public Health Threat with Matthew Remski and Julian Walker. He has been featured in over forty publications, including Rolling Stone, Women’s Health, Big Think, Yoga Journal, and National Geographic. He is also the co-founder of EarthRise SoundSystem and has produced records for Six Degrees Records and Vieux Farka Toure.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Learn more about Derek at derekberes.com.

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The "No One Size Fits All" Approach to Weight Loss May 18, 2022

TW: Diet, weight

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, registered nutritionist and researcher specializing in sustainable weight loss, Marie Spreckley. In her latest research, Marie posed the question — what does the experience of trying to achieve sustainable weight loss entail after completing a 1-year weight-loss program followed by one year of predominantly self-directed support? Tune in to hear the fascinating results and why there is no "one size fits all" approach when it comes to weight loss and health.

Danielle and Marie discuss:

The importance of a multidisciplinary, empathetic, and compassionate approach for success in weight loss and weight management
How personalized, agile treatment approaches have the potential to enhance long-term treatment outcomes for patients
The complexities of obesity and how it’s not *always* the right time to lose weight
How family, social commitments, food environment, time, and structure can impact weight loss

Marie Spreckley is a clinician, researcher, and academic specializing in obesity and weight management. She is currently in the final month of her PhD, which focuses on investigating behavioral determinants that increase the likelihood of achieving long-term weight loss outcomes with her own patient cohort. She also runs a private weight loss practice in London and teaches the Master of Science in Obesity and Weight Management at the University of South Wales. Prior to this, she spent over a decade working as a registered nutritionist for the NHS and in private practice, with a particular focus on sustainable weight loss and overall health improvements.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Marie @mariespreckley

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GI Myths Busted – Coffee Enemas, Colonics & Parasites May 11, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, TikTok’s favorite gastroenterologist Dr. Austin Chiang, to get to the bottom (pun intended) of the most common GI myths. Austin is one of the most influential voices in the field of gastroenterology online, and on today’s episode he sheds light on the enormous amount of misinformation being shared on social media that could be detrimental to your health.

Danielle and Austin debunk myths and misconceptions surrounding:

Parasite cleanses and rope worms
Colonics and coffee enemas
Probiotics, candida and gut microbiome testing
Gluten-free diets and celiac disease

Dr. Austin Chiang is a triple board-certified, dual ivy-league educated and trained gastroenterologist and advanced endoscopist. In October 2021, he became the first Chief Medical Officer of the gastrointestinal business for Medtronic, the world’s leading medical device company responsible for products to help endoscopists better prevent colon cancer. Dr. Chiang is currently an Assistant Professor of Medicine and serves as the Director of the Endoscopic Weight Loss Program and Chief Medical Social Media Officer at Jefferson Health.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Austin @austinchiangmd.

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Eat the Damn Banana (if you want!) - Understanding Carbs with Kevin Hall, PhD May 04, 2022

TW: Diet, weight

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo for part two of her fascinating conversation surrounding carbs, energy balance, and body weight with NIH nutrition and metabolism scientist, Dr. Kevin Hall. Danielle and Kevin discuss the phenomenal research Kevin and his team have done evaluating the impact of different diets and their studies in regards to the carbohydrate insulin model. They debunk myths about low carb versus low fat diets, the effects of carbs and fat on appetite, and whether keto deserves all the hype. If you have ever had anxiety about eating a banana because of the carbs, this one is for you!

Dr. Kevin Hall received his Ph.D. in Physics from McGill University and is now a tenured senior investigator at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) where he is the Section Chief of Integrative Physiology. His main research interests are the regulation of food intake, macronutrient metabolism, energy balance, and body weight. Dr. Hall is the recipient of many prestigious awards including the NIH Director’s Award, and his award-winning Body Weight Planner has been used by millions of people.

They discuss myths and misconceptions in regards to:

Calories, insulin, and glucose
Social media’ newest enemy, fruit
The latest fad diets

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Kevin @kevinh_phd

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The Science Behind Metabolism & Weight Loss with Kevin Hall, PhD Apr 27, 2022

TW: diet, weight

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, NIH nutrition and metabolism scientist Dr. Kevin Hall. In part one of this fascinating conversation, Kevin and Danielle cover a lot of ground, including Kevin’s brilliant metabolic award studies at the NIH, which are a frequent topic of conversation in the nutrition world. They discuss Kevin’s research in metabolism, energy expenditure, and weight loss and take a deep dive into his research on participants from the reality TV show, The Biggest Loser. Today's episode explores whether or not the myth is true that extreme exercise, like that depicted on the TV show, prevents the a fall in metabolic rate during weight loss, and the possible reasons why physical activity aids in weight maintenance.

Dr. Kevin Hall received his Ph.D. in Physics from McGill University and is now a tenured senior investigator at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) where he is the Section Chief of Integrative Physiology. His main research interests are the regulation of food intake, macronutrient metabolism, energy balance, and body weight. Dr. Hall is the recipient of many prestigious awards including the NIH Director’s Award, and his award-winning Body Weight Planner has been used by millions of people.

They discuss myths and misconceptions in regards to:

Metabolic adaptation and vigorous exercise
BMI and adipose (fat) tissue
Weight loss, weight gain, and weight maintenance

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Kevin @kevinh_phd

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Diet Soda, Artificial Sweeteners & Gut Supplements - Should You...? Apr 20, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, bodybuilding coach and nutrition pseudoscience myth buster, Dr. Layne Norton. Layne is a champion powerlifter and bodybuilder who turned his passion for lifting weights into a career that has helped over 2k people reach their health and fitness goals. Today’s episode debunks misinformation about artificial sweeteners, gut health, and calories in vs. calories out. Danielle and Layne also dissect numerous studies related to sucralose, diet soda, and other sweeteners that will leave you stunned and perhaps a little bit thirsty. Permission granted to crack open a diet coke while listening.

Dr. Layne Norton is a bodybuilding, figure, and physique coach who received his BS in Biochemistry from Eckerd College with honors and his PhD in Nutritional Sciences with honors from the University of Illinois. He developed his own nutrition and fitness coaching app called Biolane and has a no-BS supplement line called Carbon by Layne Norton.

They discuss myths and misconceptions in regards to:

The health impacts of artificial sweeteners and whether they make you prone to diabetes and cancer
Whether sweeteners are linked to obesity and can hinder weight loss
The gut microbiome
Metabolism and calorie deficits

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Layne @biolayne.

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Beyond Borders - Stories of Bravery, Dignity and Kindness From Ukraine Apr 13, 2022

This is a very special episode as Dr. Danielle Belardo welcomes Ukrainian American physician Dr. Marianna Blokh and her mother, Natalia Blokh, to discuss the impacts of the Russia-Ukraine war on their lives and the lives of their loved ones, some of whom are still in Ukraine. Both Marianna and Natalia assisted with translating via facetime 24 hours a day for Danielle as she supplied medical attention to Ukrainian refugees crossing the border into Poland. The medical tent was the first stop and the bravery, dignity, and pain of the women, children and elderly individuals seeking refuge was undeniable. On today’s episode, Danielle shares her experience working at the border, updates listeners on a few of the inspiring people she met, and breaks down some of the misinformation and misconceptions about the war.

Special thanks to Marianna and Natalia, for their selfless dedication and willingness to share their story during these incredibly difficult times. Also, many thanks go out to all of the volunteers and non-profit organizations helping Ukrainian refugees and those impacted directly by the war, especially those who are unable to leave Ukraine. Praying for peace.

If you are able, please donate to the humanitarian efforts for those in Ukraine.

GoFundMe for Tim and Lena

Rescuers Without Borders

World Central Kitchen

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction.

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Feel the Burn – The Truth about Calories & Exercise Apr 06, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, Evolutionary Biologist and author of Burn, Dr. Herman Pontzer. Get ready for what you thought you knew about weight loss, metabolism and exercise to be completely turned on its head as Dr. Ponzter breaks down his latest findings on the physiology of humans and how diet, activity, and other ecological factors influence health. Danielle and Herman discuss the evolution of diets, the truth about losing weight, the energy budget, and the benefits of exercise. Dr. Ponzter shares his experience living with the Hadza hunter-gatherers in northern Tanzania and the ground-breaking research that came from it. This is one of those gasp-out-loud episodes, packed full of shocking truths about calories, weight loss, and the human body. The good news is, you can toss those fad diets out the window!

Dr. Herman Pontzer is an Associate Professor of Evolutionary Anthropology and Global Health at Duke University and is an internationally recognized researcher in human energetics and evolution. His lab research focuses on energetics and metabolism, including respirometry and doubly labeled water methods. Dr. Pontzer’s work has been covered in The New York Times, BBC, PBS, Washington Post, The Atlantic, NPR, Scientific American, and others.

They address myths and misconceptions in regards to:

Metabolism, energy expenditure, and aging
Exercise and calories burned
The starvation response, low calorie diets and weight loss
Basal metabolic rates and body fat percentage

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Herman on Twitter @hermanpontzer.

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Ask an OB/GYN - IUDs, Missing Tampons & Implicit Bias Mar 30, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, TikTok’s favorite board certified OB/GYN and women’s health mastermind, Dr. Heather Irobunda. Get ready to be blown away by this incredibly educating and empowering conversation surrounding women’s healthcare and the role racism plays in maternal health. Heather explains the impacts of implicit bias, tiers of care, weathering, and redlining on minority groups and how systemic and overt racism leads to chronic stress health issues, specifically in women of color. Danielle and Heather also respond to your burning questions about women’s sexual health and weigh in on the pros and cons of the various contraceptive methods. This episode debunks misinformation left, right and center in the women's health space and nothing is off limits!

Dr. Heather Irobunda is a board certified obstetrician-gynecologist currently practicing at NYC Health and Hospitals. She received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pennsylvania, followed by a Post Baccalaureate Program at the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. She went on to complete her Doctorate of Medicine from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and joined the Guthrie Ambulatory Care Center as an attending physician in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, helping soldiers, spouses and veterans.

Myths and misconceptions in regards to:

Tampons and toxic shock syndrome
Periods, pregnancy and menstrual tracking
HPV vaccine age limits and who should get it
OB/GYN procedures and the pain discussion on social media

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Heather @drheatherirobundamd.

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The Hormone Myth – Is Imbalance Just a Buzzword? Mar 23, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, board certified endocrinologist and hormone myth buster, Dr. Arti Thangudu. After last week's episode, the questions poured in about fake diagnoses and predatory tests, so Arti is here to cut through the functional medicine noise and dispel the misinformation about adrenal fatigue, thyroid dysfunction, hormone supplements, and alternative medicine testing. With new “wellness” accounts being created on the daily, it is no wonder people are confused with what and who to believe when it comes to hormonal health. On today’s episode, Arti and Danielle discuss the difference between adrenal insufficiency and adrenal fatigue, the complexities of the thyroid, and social media’s hottest new hormone — cortisol.

Dr. Arti Thangudu, MD, is a triple board-certified physician and endocrinology, diabetes, and thyroid specialist who provides high-level, well-rounded care at Complete Medicine in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Thangudu received her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and completed a rigorous internship in internal medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. She then relocated to New Orleans, Louisiana, to complete her internal medicine residency at Tulane University. Dr. Thangudu also holds board certification in internal and lifestyle medicine and is certified in plant-based nutrition.

Myths and misconceptions discussed include:

Hormonal imbalance and hormone tests
Hypothyroidism vs hyperthyroidism
Effects of adrenal and thyroid supplements
The correlation between weight loss and hyperthyroidism

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Arti @drartithangudu and find more info on her website sacomplete.com.

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Functional “Medicine” - Magical Cures & Dangerous Supplements (Part 2) Mar 16, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo for part two of the fiery conversation about “functional” medicine with her expert guests, registered dietician Dr. Kevin Klatt, and board certified family physician Dr. Spencer Nadolsky. With the countless marketing scams and supplements to choose from, it’s easy to fall under the spell of predatory practitioners who claim to have the “magical” cure for all your ailments. Today’s episode is packed full of advice to help you fight off these functional medicine sharks and make informed decisions when it comes to your health. Danielle, Spencer and Kevin discuss the red flags to watch out for, which (if any) supplements are worth your money, and they review the ridiculous products found on Mark Hyman’s website. It’s time to put your wallet away and step away from the unregulated supplements!

Dr. Kevin C. Klatt, PhD, RD is a nutrition researcher and registered dietitian who provides individualized medical nutrition therapy and health coaching to patients/clients. Dr. Klatt completed his doctoral work in nutrition at Cornell University and his dietetic training at the National Institutes of Health. He is currently a researcher at the Baylor College of Medicine.

Dr. Spencer Nadolsky is an obesity and lipid specialist physician who focuses on exercise and nutrition as medicine. He earned a degree in Exercise Science from the University of North Carolina and completed his medical degree at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (Virginia Tech Campus). His residency training was done through the VCU-Riverside Family Medicine program. He is also the creator of LiftRx.

Myths and misconceptions discussed include:

So-called magical probiotics and lifelong detoxes
Metabolic supplements and false claims
Functional nutrition tests and gluten-free diets

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Kevin @kcklatt and Spencer @drnadolsky.

Thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Check out these deals just for you:

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Functional “Medicine” - Fake Diagnoses & Predatory Tests (Part 1) Mar 09, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her double dose of experts this week, registered dietitian Dr. Kevin Klatt and board certified family physician Dr. Spencer Nadolsky. This trio is fired up and ready to debunk their favorite controversial topic, functional medicine. The world of social media has created a lot of movement in alternative spaces of medicine and nutrition, and it is hard to tell fact from fiction as it “feels” and “sounds” a lot like real medicine. With the claim to address the root cause of illness and restore health, you would think this practice would be standardized with a list of guidelines, but it’s not, and that can be a very slippery slope. On today’s episode, Danielle, Spencer, and Kevin dive into the predatory nature of integrative health practitioners, how more lab tests are not always the answer, and which fake diagnoses you deserve to know the truth about.

Dr. Kevin C. Klatt, PhD, RD is a nutrition researcher and registered dietitian who provides individualized medical nutrition therapy and health coaching to patients/clients. Dr. Klatt completed his doctoral work in nutrition at Cornell University and his dietetic training at the National Institutes of Health. He is currently a researcher at the Baylor College of Medicine.

Dr. Spencer Nadolsky is an obesity and lipid specialist physician who focuses on exercise and nutrition as medicine. He earned a degree in Exercise Science from the University of North Carolina and completed his medical degree at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (Virginia Tech Campus). His residency training was done through the VCU-Riverside Family Medicine program. He is also the creator of LiftRx.

Myths and misconceptions discussed include:

Functional medicine “diagnoses” including adrenal fatigue, mold toxicity and leaky gut syndrome
Drugstore lab tests and food sensitivity tests
Hormone optimization and hypothyroidism

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Kevin @kcklatt and Spencer @drnadolsky.

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Cracking Down on Chiropractic Pseudoscience Mar 02, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her highly requested expert of the week, board-certified chiropractor Aaron Kubal, for a myth-busting episode on musculoskeletal health. After enrolling in school, Aaron realized the chiropractic profession was filled with pseudoscience and began using his social media platform to debunk misinformation about the field. Aaron and Danielle discuss the simple red flags to watch out for when choosing a practitioner, the future of the profession, the power of exercise for musculoskeletal health, and much more. With the abundance of cracks in the system (pun intended), maybe it’s time to rethink your next visit to the chiropractor.

Aaron has been an advocate for evidence-based practice long before completing his Doctorate of Chiropractic degree at Northwestern Health Sciences University with special interests in rehabilitation and chronic pain. Utilizing education & exercise, Aaron runs his own telehealth clinic, Twin Cities Rehab & Performance, where he delivers patient-centered care virtually that is tailored to each individual he works with, all under the umbrella of evidence-based practice.

Myths and misconceptions discussed include:

The truth about back cracking and why it feels so good
Misleading x-rays and long-term care plans
Spine realignment, SI joints, and spinal manipulation in newborns
Whether chiropractors can treat other medical issues

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Aaron @aaron_kubal.

Thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Check out these deals just for you:

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Collagen, Biotin, & “Clean” Skincare – Buy It or Burn It? Feb 23, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, board certified dermatologist and the internet’s skincare myth buster, Dr. Ranella Hirsch. Today’s episode addresses some of the biggest and longest-standing misconceptions in beauty and skincare that have been duping consumers for generations. Listeners submitted their questions about retinoids, sun care, supplements, "clean” skincare and more, and the final verdict is in on whether you should buy it or burn it. The good news — it’s not as complicated as all those “wellness” influencers make it out to be, and your bank account does not need to suffer to achieve that dewy glow.

Dr. Ranella Hirsch is the co-founder of Atolla: Custom Skincare and frequently quoted in the fields of cosmetic and laser dermatology. She often lectures to physicians in the fields of laser surgery and cosmetic dermatology and is currently involved in a number of clinical studies of laser technologies and skin care. Ranella is highly sought after as an expert for both thriving brands and startup companies, including Dove, where she is a Global Partner Dermatologist.

Myths and misconceptions discussed include:

Does tanning and drinking more water clear up acne?
Is there such thing as too much sunscreen?
UVA vs. UVB protection
Synthetic vs. natural skincare products

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Dr. Ranella Hirsh @ranellamd.

Thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Check out these deals just for you:

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Menopause or Menstrual Shenanigans? Feb 16, 2022

Twitter’s resident OB/GYN, pain medicine physician, best-selling author, and the medical misinformation sleuth of the internet, Dr. Jen Gunter is back for round two with Dr. Danielle Belardo for an eye opening conversation about menopause, hormone therapy, medical conspiracy thinking, parasite cleanses, and more. Tune in as Jen and Danielle get to the bottom of women’s health pseudoscience headlines and take the snake oil salesmen and so-called experts *cough*Goop*cough* head on.

Dr. Jen Gunter is the author of The NY Times instant best sellers The Vagina Bible and The Menopause Manifesto. She is board-certified in OB/GYN in both Canada and the United States, and in pain medicine by the American Board of Pain Medicine and the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Her blog, The Vajenda, is packed full of bias-free content about sex, social media, and science with a healthy dose of humor and feminism.

Myths and misconceptions discussed include:

Bio-identical hormone therapy vs. menopausal hormone therapy
Testosterone pellets, estrogen dosage, and synthetic hormones
The relationship between parasites and PMS

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review, and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Jen Gunter @drjengunter.

Thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Check out these deals just for you:

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Peeing After Sex, Seed Cycling & The Swizzle Stick - Should You...? Feb 09, 2022

Join Dr. Danielle Belardo and her expert of the week, OB/GYN, pain medicine physician and best-selling author, Dr. Jen Gunter for a debunking episode about women’s health. Jen has been called Twitter’s resident gynecologist and the internet’s OB/GYN and knows a thing or two about the misinformation rabbit hole nearly becoming victim to medical lies herself after her own child’s diagnosis. Jen and Danielle are on a mission to fix the medical internet and demystify women’s health by sharing the facts backed by science.

Jen Gunter is the author of The NY Times instant best sellers The Vagina Bible and The Menopause Manifesto. She is board-certified in OB/GYN in both Canada and the United States, and in pain medicine by the American Board of Pain Medicine and by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Her blog, The Vajenda, is packed full of bias-free content about sex, social media and science with a healthy dose of humor and feminism.

Myths and misconceptions discussed include:

Peeing after sex, UTIs and yeast infections
Feminine products including the swizzle stick, wipes, and organic tampons
PCOS, seed cycling and birth control pills
Vaccines and infertility

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so-wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction. Follow Jen Gunter @drjengunter.

Thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Check out these deals just for you:

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"Wellness" Has Been Unwell... Let's Fix It Feb 02, 2022

Dr. Danielle Belardo is back in your ears and in your life with a new look, more diverse content and fascinating interviews with world-renowned expert scientists and physicians. Every Wednesday, Danielle will be debunking wellness trends, exploring science-based medicine, and busting hype headlines. She will be getting to the bottom of a variety of common myths and fads in women’s health, dermatology, exercise science, gastroenterology, mental health, cardiology, nutrition and much, much more.

On today’s episode, Dr. Belardo welcomes listeners back and shares about her own journey to seeing the wellness industry a little more clearly. She also highlights some upcoming guests and topics that are sure to get you excited and curious about episodes to come. “Wellness” needs a fact check, so Danielle is cutting through the pseudoscience noise to help bring us the health and happiness we all deserve.

Thank you so much for taking the time to contribute to a generation that values fact over fiction! Be sure to rate, review and follow on your favorite podcast app and let us know which not-so wellness trend you’d like to hear debunked. Follow your host on Instagram @daniellebelardomd and the podcast @wellnessfactvsfiction.

Thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Check out these deals just for you:

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Introducing - Wellness: Fact vs. Fiction Jan 25, 2022

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