Breaking the Diet Cycle: A Conversation with Amber Brueseke

From nurse to renowned fitness coach, Amber Brueseke has helped over 10,000 women transform their relationship with health and fitness. In our latest Optimal Health podcast episode, Dr. Jared Pelo sits down with the founder of Biceps After Babies to unpack the science and psychology behind lasting health transformations.

Why This Conversation Matters

The journey to optimal health isn't just about counting calories or following the latest fitness trends. It's about understanding the deeper patterns that shape our behaviors and creating sustainable changes that last. Amber brings a unique perspective, combining her medical background with years of practical experience helping women achieve their fitness goals.

Key Insights You'll Discover

In this enlightening discussion, Amber shares her personal journey from discovering weightlifting at age 14 to building a community that's transformed thousands of lives. You'll learn about:

The science behind self-sabotaging behaviors and how to overcome them How reverse dieting can support long-term metabolic health Using macro counting as a stepping stone to intuitive, sustainable eating The crucial role of beliefs and identity in creating lasting change Breaking negative generational patterns around fitness and health

Beyond the Numbers

"Macro counting isn't the end goal," Amber explains. "It's a tool that helps build awareness and confidence around nutrition." This perspective aligns perfectly with our mission at Bionic Health - enabling optimal health through understanding and sustainable practices.

Ready to Transform Your Approach to Health?

Listen to the full episode to discover:

• Practical strategies for sustainable fitness habits
• The psychology behind successful health transformations
• How to be a positive fitness role model at any age
• Scientific insights into metabolic adaptation and nutrition

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Introduction to Amber Brueseke

00:40 - Amber's fitness journey starting at age 14

01:55 - Transitioning from nursing to fitness instruction

04:20 - Discovery of macro counting and getting a six pack

05:45 - Building Biceps After Babies and serving 10,000+ women

07:28 - Breaking negative generational patterns around fitness

09:14 - Being a fitness role model at any age

10:35 - Evolution as a coach and understanding behavior change

14:19 - Understanding self-sabotaging behaviors

16:24 - The "tree framework": beliefs, values, and identity

21:27 - Explaining reverse dieting and metabolic adaptation

27:57 - Why cycling between deficit and maintenance is crucial

30:12 - Using macro counting as a bridge to moderation

32:14 - Building sustainable nutritional awareness

34:30 - Where to find Amber and Biceps After Babies

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Connect with Amber:

Instagram/TikTok/Facebook: @biceps.after.babies

Website: bicepsafterbabies.com

Podcast: Biceps After Babies Radio

Take the Next Step

Ready to start your own health transformation? Book a consultation with one of our health optimization experts at Bionic Health. We'll help you create a personalized plan that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.

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The Power of Protein: Understanding Your Body's Building Blocks

In the world of nutrition, protein stands as a cornerstone macronutrient that goes far beyond just building muscle. Whether your goal is weight loss, muscle gain, or maintaining overall health, understanding protein's role in your body is crucial for making informed dietary decisions.

Beyond Muscle: Protein's Essential Functions

While protein is commonly associated with muscle growth, its roles in the body are remarkably diverse (Antonio et al., 2016):

• Supporting immune system function through antibody production
• Repairing damaged tissues throughout the body
• Producing vital hormones and enzymes
• Maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails
• Contributing to proper fluid balance

Protein's Role in Different Fitness Goals

Weight Loss Journey

When pursuing fat loss, protein becomes your strongest ally. A higher protein diet offers several advantages:

• Enhanced satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer
• Preservation of lean muscle mass during caloric deficit
• Increased daily caloric expenditure due to protein's higher thermic effect

Building Lean Mass

For those looking to gain muscle, protein timing and quantity are crucial considerations:

• Overall caloric surplus is the primary driver of weight gain
• Increased protein intake ensures adequate amino acid availability
• Strategic protein timing supports muscle recovery and growth

Calculating Your Individual Protein Needs

Your protein requirements are highly individual and depend on several factors, as outlined by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Dietitians of Canada, and American College of Sports Medicine (Thomas et al., 2016)

Step 1: Calculate Your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

For men:

BMR = 66.4730 + (13.7516 × weight in kg) + (5.0033 × height in cm) - (6.7550 × age in years)

For women:

BMR = 655.0955 + (9.5634 × weight in kg) + (1.8496 × height in cm) - (4.6756 × age in years)

Step 2: Determine Total Energy Expenditure (TEE)

Your activity level significantly impacts your caloric needs:

• Sedentary (desk job, little exercise): BMR × 1.2
• Light exercise (1-3 days/week): BMR × 1.3
• Moderate exercise (3-5 days/week): BMR × 1.5
• Heavy exercise (6-7 days/week): BMR × 1.7
• Very heavy exercise (2+ daily sessions): BMR × 1.9

Step 3: Adjust for Your Goals

Based on your objectives:

• Weight loss: Create a moderate caloric deficit of about 250 calories below maintenance calories while maintaining high protein
• Weight gain: Add approximately 250-500 calories above maintenance calories
• Maintenance: Match your TEE for calories while meeting protein requirements

Step 4: Calculate Macronutrient Distribution

Protein recommendations (Layman et al., 2009):

• General population: 1.2-2.0g per kg of body weight
• Athletes: May require higher amounts based on training intensity
• Weight loss: Higher end of protein recommendation ranges (likely 1.6g+ per kg of body weight)

Practical Implementation

To optimize protein intake (Kerksick et al., 2020):

1. Distribute protein intake evenly throughout the day.
2. Include a protein source at every meal and snack. Consider starting out with at least 25-35 g at each.
3. Not all proteins are the same, so consider both quantity and quality of protein sources. Animal proteins are complete protein sources, meaning they contain all of the essential amino acids. Many plant proteins are not complete, so vegetarian diets require more diligence in incorporating a variety of sources for a complete amino acid profile.
4. Prioritize lean sources of protein (93% lean or greater).
5. Adjust intake based on activity level and recovery needs.

The Science Behind the Recommendations

Recent research continues to support the importance of adequate protein intake. Studies have shown that higher protein intakes are safe and beneficial for most populations, including older adults and athletes (Bauer et al., 2013). The timing of protein intake throughout the day may be as important as the total amount consumed.

Here are some key findings from recent research (Jäger et al., 2017; Kerksick et al., 2020):

• Regular protein feeding patterns optimize muscle protein synthesis
• Higher protein intakes during weight loss help preserve lean mass
• Protein quality and amino acid profile impact utilization
• Individual factors like age, activity level, and health status influence optimal intake

Closing Thoughts

Understanding your protein needs is essential for optimizing health and achieving your fitness goals. While these guidelines provide a framework, remember that individual needs may vary. Monitor your progress and adjust your intake based on your body's response and performance outcomes.

References:

1. Thomas, D. T., Erdman, K. A., & Burke, L. M. (2016). Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Dietitians of Canada, and the American College of Sports Medicine: Nutrition and Athletic Performance. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 48(3), 543-568.
2. Layman, D. K., et al. (2009). Protein in optimal health: heart disease and type 2 diabetes. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 87(5), 1571S-1575S.
3. Kerksick, C. M., et al. (2020). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: nutrient timing. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 17(1), 1-21.
4. Jäger, R., et al. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: protein and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 20.
5. Antonio, J., et al. (2016). A high protein diet (3.4 g/kg/d) combined with a heavy resistance training program improves body composition in healthy trained men and women--a follow-up investigation. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 13, 3.

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Power-Packed Chocolate Berry Chia Seed Pudding

Start your day right with this nutrient-rich breakfast that's both delicious and prep-friendly. This chocolate berry chia seed pudding combines protein, fiber, and healthy fats in a breakfast that tastes like dessert but fuels you like a champion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Prep it the night before
• Packed with 23g of protein
• Contains 17g of fiber
• Only 300 calories
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
• Loaded with antioxidants
• Perfect for busy mornings

Ingredients

Per serving

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
• ¼ cup plain unsweetened almond milk
• ¼ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup frozen mixed berries
• 1 tablespoon flaxseeds

Instructions

1. In a jar or container, combine the chia seeds, protein powder, and almond milk
2. Stir well to prevent clumping
3. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours)
4. Before serving, stir in the Greek yogurt and ground flaxseed
5. Top with frozen berries and enjoy!

Nutrition Benefits

Chia Seeds: The Star Ingredient

• Complete protein source
• High in dietary fiber
• Supports digestion and gut health
• Rich in antioxidants and polyphenols
• Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids

Total Nutritional Value

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 23g
• Fiber: 17g
• Plus vitamins and minerals from berries and seeds

Make It Your Own

Try these variations:

• Swap berries for your favorite fruits
• Use different protein powder flavors
• Add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness
• Top with nuts for extra crunch
• Mix in coconut flakes for tropical flavor

Meal Prep Tips

• Make multiple servings at once
• Store in individual containers
• Keep toppings separate until serving
• Will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge

This chia seed pudding isn't just breakfast – it's your morning nutrition powerhouse! Give it a try and let us know what you think.

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Macros 101: Understanding the Building Blocks of Nutrition

Have you struggled to reach your goals or felt betrayed by the calories in, calories out mantra? While tracking calories seems straightforward, our bodies run on more than just numbers. Understanding macronutrients – proteins, carbohydrates, and fats – is the foundation of sustainable nutrition.

Let's explore why traditional calorie counting falls short and discover a more sustainable path to reaching your health goals. In this first part of our nutrition series, we'll break down these essential building blocks that fuel your body's daily functions, from muscle repair to energy production.

Think of macronutrients as your body's primary language of nourishment. When you learn to speak this language, you unlock a deeper understanding of how food affects your energy, hunger, and overall health. Ready to move beyond simple calorie math? Let's dive into the basics of macronutrients and transform how you think about food.

The Three Macronutrients: A Quick Overview

Protein

Protein goes far beyond building muscle—it's your body's crucial building block. It strengthens your immune system, repairs tissues, and helps produce vital hormones and enzymes. When you're working on fat loss, protein becomes even more valuable as it helps you feel full and preserves lean muscle mass.

Key sources: Chicken, turkey, pork, lean beef (such as sirloin or tenderloin), fish (such as salmon, tuna, or cod), eggs, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, tofu.

Fats

Despite their past reputation, fats are essential for your health. They insulate your body, support cell structure, help absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K, and are crucial for hormone production. Some fats are so important that your body can't produce them on its own—you must get them from food.

Key sources: Avocado, nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews), seeds (such as chia seeds, flaxseeds, or pumpkin seeds), olive oil, fatty fish (such as salmon, mackerel, or sardines), nut butters (such as peanut butter or almond butter)

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are compounds made up of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and are important for muscle and mass gain because they provide the primary source of energy for high-intensity workouts and support glycogen replenishment in muscles, facilitating optimal performance and recovery.

Key sources: Potatoes, rice, quinoa, beans (such as black beans, chickpeas, or kidney beans), lentils, fruits (such as berries, apples, bananas, and oranges), vegetables (such as carrots, squash, peas, and corn)

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‍Finding Your Balance

While everyone's needs are different, here's a general framework for daily intake provided by the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition:

• Protein: 1.2-2.0 g/kg of body weight per day
• Fats: 0.7g/kg+ of body weight per day
• Carbohydrates: Largely dependent on intensity and volume of activity.
  
  • Light activity: 3-5g/kg of body weight per day
  • Moderate activity: 5-7 g/kg of body weight per day
  • High activity: 6-10 g/kg of body weight per day
  • Extreme activity: 8-12 g/kg of body weight per day‍

for more, explore these resources:

‍https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12970-018-0242-y

‍https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12970-017-0177-8

‍https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19284668/

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But these numbers certainly aren't set in stone. Your ideal balance depends on several factors:

• Your activity level and exercise routine
• Personal health goals
• Age and metabolism
• Overall health status
• Dietary preferences

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For example, an endurance athlete might need more carbohydrates for sustained energy, while someone focusing on strength training may benefit from higher protein intake. That's why working with your Bionic Advisor can help you navigate a balance for your unique needs.

‍Stay tuned for our upcoming posts as we take a deeper dive into each macronutrient—you'll discover the science behind proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, and learn how to optimize them for your health goals.

Better Sleep: Your Path to Optimal Health

Quality sleep is essential for your overall wellbeing and plays a crucial role in hormone regulation, cellular repair, immune function, and cognitive performance. Let's explore some practical steps you can take to improve your sleep. To maintain sustainable, long-term changes, start with just one new habit from each category to implement next.

Your Daytime Routine

• Start your day with 5-20 minutes of morning sunlight while having breakfast or planning your day. This natural light exposure helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle.
• Keep your bed sacred for sleep only, avoiding work or relaxation activities there during the day.
• Maintain balanced nutrition throughout the day and stay hydrated, adjusting fluid intake as evening approaches. Need specific guidance? Your Bionic Advisor can help create a personalized plan.

Evening Habits for Better Sleep

• Power down screens at least an hour before bed and keep electronics away from your sleeping area.
• Stay active with regular exercise, but wrap up intense workouts at least 2 hours before bedtime.
• Consider limiting caffeine after noon and being mindful of alcohol consumption.
• Try incorporating relaxation techniques like box breathing or journaling to wind down.
• Simple stretching or reading can help signal to your body that it's time to rest.

Creating Your Sleep Sanctuary

Transform your bedroom into the ideal sleep environment:

• Use blackout curtains or an eye mask for darkness
• Consider a white noise machine or earplugs for quiet
• Experiment with cooler room temperatures
• Maintain consistent sleep and wake times

Pro tip: Track your sleep habits in a simple log to understand what works best for you.

Learn more about optimizing your sleep in our Sleep and Recovery Module →

Member Spotlight: How Andrew Fisher Achieved His Best Health at 48

In our latest podcast episode, we sit down with Andrew Fisher, a successful attorney and entrepreneur who transformed his health through a combination of modern medicine and dedicated fitness routines. His journey from struggling with weight management to achieving optimal health in his late 40s offers valuable insights for anyone looking to take control of their health journey.

Journey to Health Optimization

Andrew's story begins as an active youth athlete who played multiple sports including lacrosse, ice hockey, and football (00:00 - 02:42). However, like many professionals, he found himself becoming increasingly sedentary during college and law school years, reaching 275 pounds while pursuing his legal career (04:50).

The turning point came when Andrew started incorporating regular exercise back into his life, first through running and then discovering yoga through P90X workouts (06:48). But it was finding CrossFit at age 40 that truly transformed his approach to fitness. "I liked showing up someplace and being told what to do and then having a competitive and supportive competitive environment around," Andrew explains, highlighting how the community aspect kept him motivated (08:42).

Beyond Exercise: A Comprehensive Approach

While exercise played a crucial role, Andrew's most significant health improvements came from embracing a comprehensive approach to health optimization. After joining Bionic Health, he experienced remarkable changes through:

• Hormone optimization, which helped increase energy levels and muscle mass

• Targeted supplementation based on detailed blood work analysis

• GLP-1 medication that fundamentally changed his relationship with food

• Regular monitoring and adjustments to his health protocol

The results speak for themselves: Andrew gained 8 pounds of muscle while losing 40 pounds overall (24:14). Perhaps more importantly, he describes a newfound mental freedom from food obsession (28:55), saying, "I feel like I have a window into the world of a whole other kind of person that I never knew about before."

The Role of Modern Medicine

One of the most compelling aspects of Andrew's story is his embrace of evidence-based medical interventions. Despite trying numerous diets throughout his life (17:25), it wasn't until he combined proper medical supervision with his fitness routine that he achieved lasting results. Under careful medical supervision (31:00), he found the right combination of treatments to optimize his health while monitoring for any potential side effects.

A Personal Mission

Andrew's motivation for health optimization goes beyond personal appearance. Watching his parents' health challenges and wanting to maintain an active lifestyle into his later years drove him to take proactive steps toward better health. His story demonstrates that with the right support, information, and tools, it's possible to achieve optimal health at any age.

Watch the Full Episode

For the complete conversation, including detailed discussions about:

• Early athletic background (00:00 - 02:42)

• College and law school health challenges (04:50)

• Finding fitness through running and P90X (06:48)

• CrossFit journey and community (08:42 - 12:10)

• Family health history influence (13:36)

• Weight loss attempts and dieting history (17:25)

• Discovering comprehensive health optimization (21:57)

• Results and transformation (24:14)

• Mental health benefits (28:55)

• Importance of medical supervision (31:00)

Check out the full episode on our YouTube channel or your favorite podcast platform.

Ready to start your own health optimization journey? Schedule a consultation with our team to learn how we can help you achieve your health goals.

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Skin Cancer Prevention and Detection: Expert Insights from Dr. Jennifer Goldwasser

In this enlightening conversation, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Goldwasser shares her extensive knowledge about skin cancer prevention, detection, and treatment, drawing from over three decades of clinical experience.

Understanding Skin Cancer Types

Dr. Goldwasser breaks down the three main types of skin cancer, each with its unique characteristics and risks:

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma: The most common and least aggressive form, though it can be locally destructive, especially on the face. While it rarely spreads internally, early treatment is crucial to prevent damage to vital structures.

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma: More serious than basal cell but still considered non-melanoma skin cancer. While internal spread is uncommon, it can occur in aggressive cases or in immunocompromised patients.

3. Melanoma: Though less common than the other types, melanoma is potentially the most dangerous. However, Dr. Goldwasser notes encouraging developments in treatment, particularly in immunotherapy approaches that harness the body's immune system to fight cancer.

Risk Factors and Genetic Connections

The podcast reveals several surprising risk factors, including:

• BRCA2 gene mutations, known for breast cancer risk, also increase melanoma risk

• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients face higher skin cancer risk

• Redheaded individuals are more prone to amelanotic melanoma, a dangerous variant lacking typical pigmentation

• Previous radiation exposure, including historical acne treatments

The ABCDE of Prevention

Dr. Goldwasser shares her memorable prevention mnemonic:

• Avoid midday sun

• Block with appropriate sunscreen

• Cover up with protective clothing

• Dermatologist visits when needed

• Examine yourself regularly

Sunscreen Insights

The discussion includes detailed guidance on sunscreen selection and use:

• Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) offer immediate protection that doesn't degrade with sun exposure

• Chemical sunscreens require time to bind with skin and are consumed by sun exposure

• Spray sunscreens often provide inadequate coverage unless applied very carefully

• High-quality mineral sunscreens can provide all-day protection if not removed by water or sweat

Special Considerations for Different Populations

Dr. Goldwasser emphasizes that skin cancer presents differently across populations:

• People of color are more prone to acral lentiginous melanoma on hands and feet

• Regular screening frequency should be tailored to individual risk factors

• Self-examination is crucial but should be supplemented with professional checks for high-risk individuals

Looking to the Future

The conversation concludes with a discussion of emerging technologies and approaches:

• AI-assisted diagnosis tools may help address healthcare access issues

• Better data collection and analysis could improve risk assessment

• Genetic testing may help identify high-risk patients earlier

Key Takeaway

The most important message from Dr. Goldwasser's discussion is that while skin cancer is common, it's largely preventable through proper protection and detectable through regular examination. The key is staying vigilant and not ignoring persistent skin changes.

Key Timestamps:  

0:00 Introduction  

0:53 Types of skin cancer explained  

3:29 Advances in melanoma treatment  

4:16 Importance of immune system health  

5:16 Impact of non-melanoma skin cancers  

8:57 Risk factors and genetic connections  

11:02 Common locations for different skin cancers  

14:30 High-risk patient screening  

21:44 Amelanotic melanoma in redheads  

26:15 Skin cancer in people of color  

31:01 Physical examination tips  

40:09 ABCDE prevention strategy  

42:07 Sunblock types and proper usage  

49:24 Sunscreen product recommendations  

54:00 Daily sun protection guidance

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High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza: A Healthy Twist on Your Favorite Comfort Food

Are you craving pizza but wanting to stay aligned with your health goals? We've got the perfect solution that doesn't compromise on taste or nutrition. This innovative cottage cheese pizza base transforms a classic comfort food into a protein-packed, nutrient-rich meal that supports your wellness journey.

Why This Recipe Changes the Game

Traditional pizza often leaves you feeling heavy and sluggish. Our cottage cheese pizza base delivers the satisfying taste you love while providing an impressive 42 grams of protein per pizza, before even being topped. This makes it an excellent option for anyone looking to maintain or increase muscle mass while enjoying their favorite foods.

The Science Behind the Ingredients

Our recipe combines low-fat cottage cheese with eggs for a protein-rich base, while flaxseed adds essential omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Easily swap the regular flour for a gluten-free 1:1 flour, if preferred. This pizza base recipe is accessible to those with gluten sensitivities, or vegetarians, without sacrificing texture or taste.

How to Make Your High-Protein Pizza Base

Ingredients for the Base

• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1/8 cup flour (gluten-free optional!)
• 1/8 cup flaxseed
• Your favorite Italian seasonings (try out the Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote and Aglio Olio blends)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F
2. Mix all base ingredients thoroughly
3. Spread mixture on a parchment paper lined baking sheet
4. Bake for 20 minutes
5. Carefully flip and bake for an additional 5 minutes

Creating Your Perfect Pizza

Recommended Toppings

• Fresh pesto
• Mozzarella cheese
• Chicken breast
• Fresh spinach
• Sliced tomatoes

After adding your toppings, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for 10-13 minutes until the cheese melts perfectly.

Nutritional Breakdown

Complete Pizza (with listed toppings):

• Protein: 68g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 30g
• Total Calories: 625

Pizza Base Only:

• Protein: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 19g
• Total Calories: 400

Making It Work for Your Health Goals

This protein-rich pizza fits perfectly into a balanced diet, providing essential nutrients while satisfying your pizza cravings. The high protein content helps with satiety, making it an excellent choice for those managing their weight or building muscle mass.

Looking to customize this recipe? Feel free to experiment with different toppings while keeping the protein-packed base as your foundation. Remember, optimal health starts with making smarter choices about the foods we love, and this recipe proves that healthy eating can be both nutritious and delicious.

Ready to take the next step in your health journey? Try this recipe and discover how small changes in your favorite foods can lead to significant improvements in your overall wellness.

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Rethinking Testosterone: Modern Approaches to Hormone Health

In a recent conversation with Dr. Jared Pelo, Shalin Shah shared groundbreaking insights about testosterone therapy and its evolving role in modern medicine. As someone who has spent nearly a decade in the testosterone space, Shah brings a unique perspective on how this essential hormone has been misunderstood and why that's finally changing.

The Journey to Understanding Testosterone

Shah's journey began in 2015 when, as an investment professional, he encountered a drug that would later become Kyzatrex. At the time, testosterone was facing scrutiny due to cardiovascular concerns and lawsuits. However, deeper research revealed something remarkable: if testosterone had been discovered today, Shah suggests it would be considered one of the most valuable molecules on the planet.

"There is an androgen receptor on every organ in the body," Shah explains, highlighting testosterone's critical role as a metabolic hormone. Yet, this fundamental understanding has been overshadowed by decades of misconceptions.

Dispelling Historical Myths

The vilification of testosterone can be traced back to 1990 when Congress scheduled it as a controlled substance—a decision opposed by the FDA, DEA, and American Medical Association. This classification, combined with associations with sports doping scandals and the prevalence of injection-based treatments, created significant barriers to legitimate medical use.

Recent Research Changes Everything

Two major studies have transformed our understanding of testosterone therapy:

1. The Traverse Study (2023): The largest randomized, placebo-controlled trial in testosterone history conclusively showed no cardiovascular risk with testosterone therapy.

2. T4DM Study (2020): Demonstrated testosterone's significant impact on diabetes prevention and management, showing better results than metformin in its pivotal study.

The Innovation of Daily Oral Treatment

Traditional testosterone treatments, primarily injections, create unnatural hormone spikes and valleys. Shah draws an apt analogy: "Would you wake up on Monday morning and have 10 cups of coffee for the week?" This is where daily oral medication shows its advantage.

Kyzatrex's innovative formulation, using plant sterols for absorption through the lymphatic system, allows for more natural hormone rhythms. This approach maintains the body's pituitary function and minimizes side effects commonly associated with long-acting treatments.

The Future of Testosterone Therapy

The Testosterone Project, a nonprofit initiative, focuses on three crucial areas:

1. Making testosterone testing standard in preventive care

2. Creating a pathway for FDA-approved female testosterone treatments

3. De-scheduling testosterone as a controlled substance

Beyond Traditional Uses

The implications of optimal testosterone levels extend far beyond the conventional focus on muscle mass and libido. Shah points to testosterone's role in the "four horsemen" of aging-related diseases:

• Cardiovascular disease

• Type 2 diabetes

• Dementia

• Cancer

"Testosterone has a specific role in each one of these issues," Shah emphasizes, suggesting a broader role for hormone optimization in preventive health care.

Accessibility and Innovation

In an innovative move, Kyzatrex adopted a cash-pay model to improve accessibility. This decision bypasses traditional insurance barriers and prior authorizations while maintaining affordability—a crucial factor in expanding access to hormone therapy.

Looking Forward

The future of testosterone therapy looks promising, with potential changes to FDA labeling and increasing recognition of its role in preventive health. For those interested in learning more, resources are available at:

• Kyzatrex.com

• RethinkTestosterone.com

• TestosteroneProject.com

Conclusion

The conversation between Dr. Pelo and Shah reveals a shifting paradigm in hormone therapy—one that moves away from stigma and toward understanding testosterone as a crucial metabolic hormone with wide-ranging health implications. As research continues and access improves, we may be entering a new era of hormone optimization for both men and women.

This transformation in perspective, backed by solid research and innovative delivery methods, suggests that testosterone therapy could play a significant role in the future of preventive medicine and healthy aging.

Key Timestamps:

00:18 - Shalin's journey into testosterone research and development of Kyzatrex

03:18 - Understanding oral testosterone and debunking liver toxicity myths

06:03 - Historical misconceptions: Why testosterone was unfairly vilified

11:04 - The Traverse Study (2023): Proving cardiovascular safety

13:28 - T4DM Study: Testosterone's impact on diabetes prevention

15:22 - Why daily oral testosterone better mimics natural body rhythms

24:05 - The Testosterone Project's three initiatives:

- Making testosterone testing standard

- Creating FDA-approved options for women

- De-scheduling testosterone

36:09 - Why Kyzatrex chose a cash-pay model for better access

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