Extend Podcast with Darshan Shah, MD

Latest Episodes:

28. Dr. David Perlmutter: The Gut Mistake That's Shrinking Your Brain (And How to Avoid It) Feb 04, 2025

Show notes

How often do you reach for a sugary snack, telling yourself it's just a small indulgence? Or justify skipping your morning walk because you're "too busy"? Here's the truth: your daily habits are either fueling your longevity or quietly sabotaging it.

In this episode of Extend, I sit down with Dr. David Perlmutter, a neurologist and five-time New York Times bestselling author known for his groundbreaking work on brain health, inflammation, and metabolic resilience. We dig deep into the connection between blood sugar, brain aging, and chronic disease—and how small, intentional lifestyle changes can make a massive difference in your long-term vitality.

You'll learn how excess glucose can erode your cognitive function and why uric acid—a molecule most of us ignore—may be the key to unlocking better metabolic health. We also share practical tips to curb cravings, improve your sleep, and enhance your focus by rebalancing your diet and mindset.

Dr. David Perlmutter is a board-certified neurologist, researcher, and advocate for lifestyle interventions that promote cognitive health and resilience. He is the author of bestselling books like Grain Brain and Drop Acid, and he continues to inspire millions with his work on the gut-brain connection.

We Also Discuss:

(00:00) Connecting Through Conversation and Brain Health Foundations (04:40) Evolutionary Biology's Role in Brain Health (14:21) Neurology Meets Functional Medicine (25:52) Metabolic Health and Its Impact on Brain Wellness (41:28) The Gut-Brain Connection Explained (56:09) Understanding Brain Disease Through Metabolic Health (01:03:34) Exercise as a Pillar for Brain Health (01:23:23) Nutrition, Lifestyle, and the Future of Brain Care

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

TruNiagen: Whether you are looking to stay sharp, feel more energized or simple age better, go to https://www.truniagen.com/
IFit: If you are looking to elevate your home gym fitness experience with the best in fitness tech, choose IFIT. Go to https://www.ifit.com/
NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at https://www.next-health.com/
Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit https://vitaboom.com/

Learn more about Dr. Shah:

Website: https://www.drshah.com/

Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/

Learn more about Dr. David Perlmutter:

Website: https://drperlmutter.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidperlmutter

27. Dr. Mindy Pelz: The Metabolic Reset Every Woman Needs Jan 28, 2025

Show notes

Title: Dr. Mindy Pelz: The Metabolic Reset Every Woman Needs

Your hormones deserve better care—and you do too.

So many women feel stuck when it comes to their health—frustrated by unexplained weight gain, unpredictable mood swings, and low energy that no diet or workout seems to fix. The truth is, our healthcare system was built around research that overlooked the female body's complexity. But the great news? There's a way to support your body that works with your biology, not against it.

In today's episode of Extend, I'm diving into how you can break free from metabolic imbalances and reclaim your energy with the right strategies for fasting, nutrition, and movement. You'll learn why women experience hormonal chaos during perimenopause and menopause—and how understanding your body's natural rhythm can make all the difference.

I'll also uncover the truth about hidden disruptors in your food and environment, like obesogens and toxins, and how they affect your ability to lose weight and stay healthy. Plus, I'll share game-changing insights on building strength, improving bone health, and balancing your hormones through strategic lifestyle changes.

Joining me is Dr. Mindy Pelz, a pioneer in women's health and the bestselling author of Eat Like a Girl. Dr. Mindy's groundbreaking work has empowered thousands of women to embrace fasting, rethink their nutrition, and overcome hormonal imbalances. As the host of The Resetter Podcast, she's built a global community dedicated to helping women live vibrant, resilient lives.

This conversation will open your eyes to what's possible when you tune into your body's innate intelligence—you won't want to miss it!

We Also Discuss:

(00:00) Women's Health Disparities in Medicine (14:06) Medical Paradigm Shift Towards Individualized Care (21:28) Exploring Fasting and Metabolic Health (33:00) The Truth About Obesogens and Toxins (45:00) The Power of Strength Training and Movement (01:12:00) Reclaiming Balance: Key Lifestyle Shifts for Hormonal Health

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

TruNiagen: Whether you are looking to stay sharp, feel more energized or simple age better, go to https://www.truniagen.com/

IFit: If you are looking to elevate your home gym fitness experience with the best in fitness tech, choose IFIT. Go to https://www.ifit.com/

NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at https://www.next-health.com/

Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit https://vitaboom.com/

Learn more about Dr. Shah:

Website: https://www.drshah.com/

Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/

Learn more about Dr. Mindy Pelz

Website: https://drmindypelz.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.mindypelz

26. Speed Up Your Metabolism NOW (The Power is in Your Muscles) Jan 24, 2025

Show notes

In today's episode of Extend, I'm diving into one of the most powerful and underutilized tools for your health and longevity: strength training. Whether you're a gym regular or just getting started, this episode will break down the science and practical strategies you need to transform your fitness routine.

Together, we'll explore the four essential pillars of strength training: building and preserving muscle as you age, how your muscles directly impact your metabolism, the surprising role of muscles as an endocrine organ, and how to create an effective, sustainable routine that fits your lifestyle. From understanding the difference between slow and fast-twitch muscle fibers to how myokines impact everything from brain health to inflammation, this episode is packed with game-changing insights.

I'm also sharing actionable tips for optimizing your workouts, from training to failure for muscle growth to recovery techniques like proper sleep, protein intake, and using saunas post-workout. Whether you're 20 or 70, it's never too late to reap the life-extending benefits of strength training.

Ready to take your fitness to the next level? Tune in !

I also discuss:

(00:12) Why Strength Training is the Ultimate Longevity Tool

(03:14) The Truth About Muscle Loss and Aging

(06:35) How Strength Training Transforms Metabolic Health

(17:38) Strength Training: The Key to Consistency and Longevity

Learn more about Dr. Shah:

Website: https://www.drshah.com/

Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/

25. Mona Sharma: The Shocking Role Your Gut Plays in Cravings and Fatigue Jan 21, 2025

Show notes

Feeling stuck with your health? Maybe you're doing all the right things—or at least you think you are—but you're still not seeing the results you want. It's frustrating, right? But here's the thing: modern life is working against you. Chronic stress, hidden toxins in your environment, and mixed messages about what actually works—it's no wonder so many of us feel lost when it comes to wellness.

In today's episode of Extend with Dr. Shah, I'm sitting down with Mona Sharma—nutritionist, wellness expert, and someone who truly gets what it takes to turn things around. We're diving into the real reasons you might not be feeling your best, from the role of your gut health to how stress affects your body more than you realize.

We also share simple, actionable ways to detox your life—without feeling overwhelmed—and how to build daily habits that stick, so you can finally feel like the best version of yourself.

Mona Sharma is a leading voice in the wellness space, blending her background in integrative nutrition with her expertise in mindfulness and Ayurveda. Mona's worked with top athletes, A-list celebrities, and people just like you to rebuild their health from the inside out.

If you're ready to break free from the cycle of exhaustion, stress, and frustration, you're going to love this conversation.

Let's jump in!

We Also Discuss:

(00:00) Podcast Launch Strategy and Personal Journey

(08:43) Exploring Health, Vibrational Shifts

(17:19) Navigating Wellness

(28:02) Optimizing Digestion and Reducing Toxins

(39:52) Detoxifying Your Environment for Health

(52:35) Embracing Emotional Health and Wellness

(55:53) Creating Daily Rituals for Optimal Health

(01:29:24) Foundations of Everyday Health

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

TruNiagen: Whether you are looking to stay sharp, feel more energized or simple age better, go to https://www.truniagen.com/
IFit: If you are looking to elevate your home gym fitness experience with the best in fitness tech, choose IFIT. Go to https://www.ifit.com/
NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at https://www.next-health.com/
Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit https://vitaboom.com/

Learn more about Dr. Shah:

Website: https://www.drshah.com/

Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/

Learn more about Mona Sharma:

Website: www.monasharma.com

Instagram: @monasharma

24. The Real Reason Your Fitness Goals Fail (And How to Fix It for Good) Jan 16, 2025

Show notes

In this solo episode of Extend, I'm breaking down the science behind sustainable fitness progress and goal-setting so you can finally make those health resolutions stick.

From understanding your baseline fitness level with key assessments to the power of setting small, realistic goals, I'm guiding you step-by-step through the tools that build long-term consistency. We'll talk about everything from DEXA scans for precise body composition analysis to why grip strength and lower body power are vital indicators of longevity.

I also share actionable strategies to keep you motivated, avoid plateaus, and make progress checks work for you—not against you. Whether you're starting fresh or trying to push past a plateau, you'll walk away with a personalized blueprint for success.

Ready to upgrade your fitness journey? Tune in for proven insights you can start applying today!

I Also Discuss:

(00:06) Testing Fitness Progress and Goals

(03:50) Measuring and Improving Physical Fitness

(10:17) Comprehensive Strength and Fitness Testing

(22:00) Motivating Fitness Testing and Goal Setting

Resources mentioned:

PDF - Strength, Mobility, and Cardiorespiratory Fitness Assessment

Learn more about Dr. Shah:

Website: https://www.drshah.com/

Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/

23. Louisa Nicola: The Simple Habits That Will Rejuvenate Your Brain Jan 14, 2025

Show notes

Your brain is your most powerful asset—so why do so many of us let it decline without a fight? Cognitive decline, brain fog, and even Alzheimer's don't just "happen." They're the result of decades of small decisions, stress, and overlooked habits. The good news? You have the ability to take control.

In this episode of Extend, I sit down with Louisa Nicola, neurophysiologist and human performance coach, to uncover the science behind optimal brain health and the simple habits that can keep your mind sharp and resilient.

We talk about the role of exercise (and why your muscles are key to brain health), how sleep works like a "cleaning system" for your brain, and why inflammation is the root of so many cognitive issues.

Louisa Nicola is a neurophysiologist and founder of NeuroAthletics, specializing in brain optimization and cognitive performance. With a background as an elite triathlete, she focuses on using exercise and science-backed protocols to prevent neurodegenerative diseases. Louisa works with top executives, athletes, and high achievers worldwide.

We Also Discuss:

(00:00) Neurophysiology and the Foundations of Brain Health

(22:11) The Role of Nutrition in Brain Optimization

(34:05) How Aerobic and Resistance Training Transform Brain Function

(50:01) Deep Sleep: The Brain's Most Powerful Recovery Tool

(56:59) Understanding Alzheimer's Disease and How to Prevent It

Resources mentioned:

The Levine Protocol

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

TruNiagen: Whether you are looking to stay sharp, feel more energized or simple age better, go to https://www.truniagen.com/

IFit: If you are looking to elevate your home gym fitness experience with the best in fitness tech, choose IFIT. Go to https://www.ifit.com/

NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at https://www.next-health.com/

Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit https://vitaboom.com/

Learn more about Dr. Shah:

Website: https://www.drshah.com/

Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/

Learn more about Louisa Nicola:

Website: https://www.neuroathletics.com.au/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisanicola_

22. How to Break Free from the Sedentary Trap Jan 09, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever wondered if hitting the gym is enough to offset hours of sitting at your desk?

In this episode of Extend, I take a closer look at the silent yet dangerous effects of sedentary behavior—and why it could be one of the most overlooked threats to your long-term health.

From the link between prolonged sitting and chronic diseases like heart disease and Alzheimer's to the surprising impact it has on your metabolic health, I'm breaking down the science behind why movement throughout the day matters more than you think.

I also share strategies to help you stay active, including simple exercise "snacks" that don't require a gym membership, the truth about standing desks, and why a daily walk after meals can drastically improve your overall well-being.

If you're ready to level up your health by eliminating sedentary habits, this episode is full of actionable tips you can implement today.

Tune in!

We Also Discuss:

(00:18) Understanding Sedentary Behavior

(04:15) What Counts as Sedentary?

(08:52) The Power of "Exercise Snacks"

(12:43) Combatting Sedentary Behavior

Learn more about Dr. Shah:

Website: https://www.drshah.com/

Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/

21. Dr. Jay Shah: The Deadly Effects of Hypertension You're Not Aware Of Jan 07, 2025

Show notes

Do you know the #1 preventable cause of death worldwide? It's high blood pressure—a condition that half of the population doesn't even know they have. Mismanaged and misunderstood, this "silent killer" leads to heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and dementia. Yet, most people rely on outdated tools like cuffs that deliver inconsistent readings or aren't used correctly at all.

In this episode of Extend, I sit down with Dr. Jay Shah, a cardiologist and blood pressure expert to tackle the barriers holding us back from controlling hypertension effectively. Together, we explore how innovative tools are not just changing how we measure blood pressure, but how we approach prevention, treatment, and even early detection.

We also talk about topics like metabolic syndrome, the connection between stress and hypertension, and how small lifestyle changes can yield big results.

Dr. Jay Shah is a practicing cardiologist with over 15 years of experience, including tenure at the Mayo Clinic and Mass General. Now the Chief Medical Officer at Aktiia, he is leading the charge in developing wearable health technologies that aim to transform global blood pressure management.

We Also Discuss:

(00:00) Health Presentation at Harvard Business School

(18:14) Understanding Metabolic Syndrome and Its Connection to Blood Pressure

(32:52) Lifestyle Factors and Their Impact on Hypertension

(40:40) Stress, Sleep, and Their Role in Blood Pressure Management

(48:51) Identification and Management of Resistant Hypertension

(01:00:15) Strategic Use of Blood Pressure Medications

(01:06:16) The Evolution of Continuous Blood Pressure Monitoring Technology

(01:12:28) Future Innovations in Blood Pressure Monitoring and Predictive Health

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

TruNiagen: Whether you are looking to stay sharp, feel more energized or simple age better, go to https://www.truniagen.com/
IFIT: If you are looking to elevate your home gym fitness experience with the best in fitness tech, choose IFIT. Go to https://www.ifit.com/
NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at https://www.next-health.com/
Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit https://vitaboom.com/

Learn more about Dr. Shah:

Website: https://www.drshah.com/

Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/

Learn more about Dr. Jay Shah:

Website: https://aktiia.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aktiiaglobal/

20. Dr. Rangan Chatterjee: Burnout Is Rewiring Your Brain—Here's How to Take Back Control Dec 31, 2024

Show notes

Are you stuck in a relentless cycle of stress that's draining your energy and joy? Burnout isn't just about feeling tired—it's a chronic state that rewires your body and mind, often without you realizing it.

In this episode of Extend, I sit down with Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, a trailblazer in functional medicine and best-selling author, to explore how modern life has hijacked our stress response systems. Together, we unpack why today's constant pressures—from overflowing inboxes to endless social media scrolling—are leaving so many of us overwhelmed and disconnected from our true selves.

We dive into Dr. Chatterjee powerful strategies for addressing burnout, including the surprising benefits of micro-habits like a 5-minute workout or a tea ritual. We also discuss the profound impact of aligning your daily actions with your core values and how these practices can transform your well-being.

Dr. Rangan Chatterjee is a globally recognized pioneer in functional medicine, the author of six best-selling books, including Make Change Last, and the host of the widely celebrated Feel Better, Live More podcast, which has over 250 million downloads. With over two decades of clinical experience, he has empowered millions to take control of their health through practical, sustainable lifestyle changes.

We Also Discuss:

(00:02) Functional Medicine Foundations (11:55) Understanding and Combating Burnout (23:11) Creating Sustainable Health Routines (50:37) The Power of Intentional Living (01:47:14) Personalized Health and Data (01:06:46) Transforming Health Through Self-Discovery (02:25:37) Rethinking Healthcare and Advocacy (02:33:23) Revolutionizing Health With Functional Medicine

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

Timeline: If you are looking for a boost in a cellular level, Timeline is the secret to unlocking your mitochondria's whole potential. Go to: https://www.timeline.com/
TruNiagen: Whether you are looking to stay sharp, feel more energized or simple age better, go to https://www.truniagen.com/
IFit: If you are looking to elevate your home gym fitness experience with the best in fitness tech, choose IFIT. Go to https://www.ifit.com/
NextHealth: Your destination for cutting-edge health optimization—from IV therapy to hormone balancing. Explore at https://www.next-health.com/
Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit https://vitaboom.com/

Learn more about Dr. Shah:

Website: https://www.drshah.com/

Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/

Learn more about Dr. Rangan Chatterjee:

Website: https://drchatterjee.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchatterjee

19. The Supplement Myths You Need to Stop Believing Dec 26, 2024

Show notes

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the endless options in the supplement aisle?

In this episode of Extend, I take a closer look at why so many people struggle to make sense of supplementation—and what you can do to make smarter, science-backed decisions.

From the declining nutrient density in modern diets to the role of supplements in addressing deficiencies and optimizing health, I'm breaking it all down.

I also reveal the foundational supplements everyone should consider (like Vitamin D, Omega-3s, and Magnesium), the cutting-edge advancements in supplementation, and why personalized protocols are the future of health optimization.

If you're ready to cut through the confusion and build a supplement routine that truly works for you, this episode is packed with actionable insights you don't want to miss.

Tune in to discover how supplements can bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be.

We Also Discuss:

(00:38) Introduction: The bell-shaped curve of supplementation

(02:33) Why modern diets fall short in essential nutrients

(03:59) Foundational supplements everyone should consider

(06:46) Advanced supplements for cognitive and metabolic health

(11:18) Quality control: How to choose safe, effective supplements

Learn more about Dr. Shah:

Website: https://www.drshah.com/

Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darshanshahmd/

Thank You to Our Sponsor: