Ditch The Labcoat

• Cardiac Longevity with Dr. Behnam Banihashemi

  In this episode of "Ditch the Lab Coat," Dr. Mark Bonta welcomes Dr. Behnam Banihashemi, a cardiologist specializing in cardiovascular prevention, wellness, and longevity. Dr. Banihashemi discusses the concept of Medicine 2.0, which includes advancements in pharmaceuticals and interventions that have extended life expectancy in the Western world, along with a focus on improving lifestyle choices to further enhance longevity. However, he emphasizes that the real key to living a longer, healthier life lies in addressing lifestyle factors such as fitness, nutrition, sleep, and mental health.Dr. Banihashemi explains that although cardiac procedures like stents can be life-saving during heart attacks, they do not necessarily improve life expectancy for those with stable angina. Instead, lifestyle changes have a more significant impact. He highlights the influence of pharmaceutical funding on medical research and practice, leading to an emphasis on treatments rather than preventive care.The conversation also covers the limitations of the Canadian healthcare system, which does not incentivize primary prevention, and the potential benefits of certain quick fixes like metformin or supplements like protein and creatine. Dr. Banihashemi stresses that small, consistent actions, despite not being marketable, are essential for longevity and that the healthcare system often focuses more on managing diseases than preventing them. Ultimately, individuals hold the power to take charge of their health through day-by-day lifestyle decisions, adding life to their years, not just years to their lives.Get Dr. Banihashemi's 8 Steps to Conquer Chronic Pain: A Doctor's Guide to Lifelong Relief : https://www.amazon.ca/Steps-Conquer-Chronic-Pain-Lifelong/dp/0778807118 Episode Highlights:Longevity Myths Debunked: Dr. Ben sheds light on the widespread misconception that a magic pill exists for living longer. Spoiler alert: it doesn't! Discover the habits that truly make a difference in extending not only your lifespan but also your health span.Four Pillars of Health: Learn about the core areas that Dr. Ben advocates for—Fitness, Nutrition, Sleep, and Mental Health—and how these simple, intentional choices can vastly improve your quality of life.Real Talk on Medical Interventions: Are cardiac stents the ultimate fix? Dr. Ben discusses the harsh realities of current medical practices focused on quick fixes and how lifestyle changes offer more significant benefits.The Canadian Healthcare Perspective: Ever wondered how the Canadian healthcare system affects patient care? Dr. Ben gives an insider's look into the challenges doctors face and how his new venture, the Cardiac Longevity Clinic, is pioneering a shift towards proactive, personalized healthcare.00:00 - Cardiologist Ben's Holistic Heart Health06:00 - Longevity trends in the Western world.09:08 - Impact of non-chronic mortality factors.12:04 - Cardiac stents save lives in heart attacks.16:53 - Biased pharmaceutical research investments.18:49 - Cardiology’s focus: Band-Aids over causes.21:13 - Research bias in health studies.27:03 - Primary prevention system failures.28:43 - The Four Pillars for Longevity.34:43 - Integrative health consultation process.37:42 - Sustainable change through consistency.40:46 - Longevity drugs: Metformin vs. Rapamycin.45:28 - Red wine popularity: Study misinterpretations.47:00 - Wine, longevity, and confounding factors.51:13 - Patient responsibility in medication adherence.53:22 - Reflecting on longevity and lifestyle.DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.   >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.       Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

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• My Back Hurts! Chronic Pain Unpackaged with Dr. Andrea Furlan

  Welcome to another insightful episode of Ditch the Lab Coat with Dr. Mark Bonta. In today's conversation, we're diving deep into the intricate world of chronic pain with the renowned Dr. Andrea Furlan, a global authority in pain management. With a career dedicated to understanding and conquering chronic pain, Dr. Furlan sheds light on the misconceptions surrounding pain as we age, the role of stress, and how our modern virtual lifestyles are influencing our health. We’ll explore the significance of the mind-body connection, the impact of stress on muscle pain, and the manifold strategies that can help alleviate chronic pain, from mindful techniques and lifestyle changes to the benefits of proper sleep and diet. Whether you're a healthcare professional, enduring chronic pain, or simply curious about how to manage pain more effectively, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice informed by Dr. Furlan's extensive career and research. I apologize, but I notice you're asking for key takeaways about fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, but the transcript provided is actually about chronic pain and features Dr. Andrea Furlan discussing pain management. Let me provide the key takeaways from this actual transcript:Key Takeaways:1. Mind-Body ConnectionDr. Furlan emphasizes that chronic pain often has strong connections to stress, mental state, and emotional wellbeing, with the body using pain as a way to communicate underlying issues.2. Parasympathetic Nervous SystemA major focus is placed on activating the parasympathetic nervous system through techniques like mindful breathing, meditation, and mindful walking to help manage chronic pain.3. Modern Lifestyle ImpactWhile modern behaviors like prolonged sitting and screen use are often blamed for pain, Dr. Furlan notes that similar sedentary behaviors existed 100 years ago without the same pain complaints, suggesting other factors are involved.4. Nutrition's RoleUltra-processed foods are identified as "poison" for the body, potentially contributing to various health issues including chronic pain. The importance of natural, whole foods is emphasized.5. Treatment ApproachRather than relying solely on medications, Dr. Furlan advocates for a comprehensive approach including:- Sleep improvement- Proper nutrition- Exercise- Stress management- Mind-body techniques6. Validation of PainFor chronic pain patients, Dr. Furlan emphasizes the importance of validating their experience and understanding that their pain is real, even when not visible on medical imaging.06:01 - Chronic pain across all ages.09:43 - Rethinking pain management approaches.11:20 - Muscle pain and nociception origins.13:55 - Breaking the fear avoidance cycle.18:06 - Processed vs. natural foods awareness.23:14 - Jaw massage experience and benefits.24:26 - Massage: Temporary relief for muscle pain.30:19 - Overwhelmed and Overheating Connections.30:59 - Rethinking pain and treatment.34:39 - Managing pain with parasympathetic activation.41:06 - Chronic pain and central sensitization.42:14 - Overcoming recovery challenges.47:57 - Healing trauma: Brain and emotions.49:51 - Stress, trauma, and health connection.54:31 - Chronic pain management tools.DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.   >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.       Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

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  56:35
• Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and the Developing Brain with Dr. Susan Rich

  Welcome to "Ditch the Lab Coat," the podcast where we break down complex medical topics with leading experts shaping the future of healthcare. In today's episode, we're diving into the nuanced and critical conversation surrounding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) with our distinguished guest, Dr. Susan Rich. With a career spanning decades, Dr. Rich is a trailblazer in child and adolescent psychiatry and an ardent advocate for public health. She's here to shine a light on prenatal alcohol exposure's often overlooked impacts on brain development. Did you know that not only alcohol consumed during pregnancy but even prior to conception can lead to multigenerational health issues? Dr. Rich unpacks how prevalent this is, affecting 1 in 20 children, yet remains largely unrecognized. Throughout our discussion, we'll explore systemic challenges, the myths perpetuated by the alcoholic beverage industry, and most importantly, the critical steps we need to take for prevention and support. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a parent, or just intrigued by one of public health's hidden crises, this episode promises to be both enlightening and empowering. Get ready for a thought-provoking journey as we seek a healthier future for the generations to come.Key Takeaways :The Hidden Impact of Alcohol on Fetal Development Dr. Susan Rich explains that fetal alcohol spectrum disorder affects approximately 1 in 20 children (5% of the population), with far-reaching consequences beyond the commonly known physical characteristics.Early Pregnancy Vulnerability Critical developmental impacts occur as early as the third to fourth week post-conception, often before women know they're pregnant. About 13.5% of childbearing age women in America binge drink, and approximately 50% of pregnancies are unplanned.Beyond Traditional Understanding While medical education traditionally focused on severe cases with facial deformities and intellectual disabilities, Dr. Rich reveals that only 10-15% of affected children show these classic features. The majority have neurodevelopmental issues without obvious physical signs.Male Factor Contribution Alcohol consumption by men up to three months before conception can affect sperm quality through epigenetic modifications, potentially making the embryo more susceptible to alcohol exposure during pregnancy.Economic and Social Impact The alcohol industry generates approximately $220 billion annually, while the cost of caring for just those with full fetal alcohol syndrome (not including the entire spectrum) was estimated at $5.4 billion as of 2003 data.Prevention and Treatment Approaches Dr. Rich advocates for better public health messaging, comprehensive support systems for affected children, and the need for healthcare providers to better understand and recognize the full spectrum of alcohol-related developmental disorders.03:14 - Alcohol's multigenerational impact explained.08:27 - Alcohol's epigenetic effects on offspring.13:17 - Unplanned pregnancies and fetal alcohol syndrome.15:33 - Neural crest and facial development.19:18 - Fetal alcohol, nutrition, and growth.23:04 - Dr. Kathleen Sulick’s contributions.25:26 - Alcohol’s impact on family events.28:38 - Alcohol’s cultural role and societal effects.30:57 - Alcohol’s toxicity and informed consent.34:05 - Liquor profits and education funding.37:35 - Rethinking alcohol’s role in society.42:56 - Global epidemic: Fetal alcohol impact.45:05 - Supporting neurodivergent youth transitions.47:50 - Taxing alcohol to aid impoverished children.51:01 - Alcohol’s Hidden Health Impacts.54:12 - Rethinking alcohol’s impact on children.DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.   >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.       Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

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  56:46
• War Is Good For Medicine with Dr. Tim Cook

  Welcome to another intriguing episode of "Ditch the Lab Coat!" Today, we're stepping beyond the usual realm of medical professionals to explore the remarkable intersection of history and medicine with our special guest, Dr. Tim Cook, an acclaimed historian and Chief Historian at the Canadian War Museum. Known for his award-winning works, including his recent book "Lifesavers and Body Snatchers," Dr. Cook delves into the gripping stories of medical care during World War I. Join us as we unravel the profound impacts of war on the evolution of medical practices, technological advancements, and societal attitudes toward mental health and veterans. With a unique blend of military history and healthcare, this episode promises to offer a fascinating lens into how the past has shaped our present understanding of medicine and survival. Tune in and expand your knowledge with our evidence-based and thought-provoking conversation right here on "Ditch the Lab Coat" with Dr. Mark Bonta. Key Topics:Discussion on War and Its ImpactsDr. Bonta sharing his interest in history and the logistics of warDr. Cook addressing the question "War, what is it good for?"Examination of war as a force of change and its legacyAdvancements in Medical Care During WarEvolution of military medicine during World War ISpecific advancements in surgery, disease treatment, and preventive medicineRole of Canadian doctors and nurses during the warMedical Advances and Their Post-war ApplicationIntegration of war-time medical advancements into civilian healthcareVaccination and preventive strategies during and post-warChallenges and Psychological Aspects of WarImpact of war on mental health, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)Historical understanding and treatment of shell shock and PTSDExperience of veterans returning home and societal attitudesCurrent Conflicts and Future ImplicationsReflections on the Ukraine conflict and its historical parallelsDiscussion on modern warfare implications and drone technologyPerspectives on Post-war Social StructureSocietal mental health during and after wartimeChallenges faced by soldiers and civilians in post-conflict recoveryExploration of the Book "Lifesavers and Body Snatchers"Uncovering the body snatching program during World War IEthical considerations and the historical context of the programClosing Remarks and ReflectionsFinal thoughts on learning from history and warAcknowledgments and thanks to Dr. Tim CookEncouragement to engage with historical content for broader understandingEpisode Timestamps: 05:07 - The human toll of war.07:01 - War’s role in technological advances.11:10 - Medical innovations during World War I.15:15 - War experience vs. domestic complaints.18:18 - The post-war medical revolution.21:11 - War’s medical breakthroughs and prevention strategies.24:10 - Insights on medical and military preparedness.27:45 - Canada’s evolving military identity.31:29 - Soldiers’ untreated mental health crisis.36:04 - Chaos in the Ukraine conflict.38:29 - Ukraine’s resilience amid modern trench warfare.43:08 - Post-COVID unrest and its lasting impact.48:26 - "Legacy of war’s dual nature" discussion.49:28 - "Learning from history’s challenges."53:35 - Honoring soldiers’ service and sacrifice.DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.   >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.       Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

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  55:18
• Food As Treatment with Dr. Jeff Alfonsi

  In this episode of "Ditch the Lab Coat," Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with Dr. Jeff Alfonsi, an internal medicine and obesity medicine doctor with a focus on nutrition. The conversation revolves around the impact of nutrition on health and the importance of moving away from ultra-processed foods.Dr. Alfonsi explains that the modern diet often prioritizes convenience over health, leading to increased consumption of processed foods laden with additives that can have various negative health impacts. He emphasizes that significant health benefits can be achieved even with incremental improvements in diet quality. For instance, decreasing the consumption of ultra-processed foods and increasing the intake of whole foods can improve various health metrics, including blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and cognitive function.The episode delves into how the food industry focuses on factors like taste, convenience, and consumption rather than the nutritional value and health benefits of food. Dr. Alfonsi points out that this disconnect between the food industry and health guidelines contributes to poor dietary habits and chronic diseases.One of Dr. Alfonsi's major ventures, Rx Food, aims to address this issue by using technology to help individuals track their food intake and get personalized dietary assessments. He emphasizes the importance of using both subjective and objective measures to monitor progress and make sustainable dietary changes.The episode concludes with practical advice on how to implement healthier eating habits, such as preparing healthy snacks in advance and keeping less-healthy options out of easy reach. Dr. Alfonsi advocates for balance and moderation rather than perfection in dietary changes.Overall, the episode sheds light on the critical role of nutrition in overall health and offers actionable insights for individuals looking to make sustainable improvements in their diet.Key Takeaways:The Inconvenient Truth About Ultra-Processed FoodsDr. Alfonsi discusses the hidden dangers of additives found in everyday ultra-processed foods and how they can impact our health. From changes in taste buds to cognitive function, the impacts are far-reaching.Red Food Dye ControversyWhat's the deal with Red Food Dye Number 2? Dr. Alfonsi explains the risks associated with food additives and why moderation is crucial.The Power of Personalized NutritionLearn about Rx Food, a groundbreaking technology co-founded by Dr. Alfonsi, that transforms how we view our dietary habits. This tool helps individuals make smarter, more sustainable food choices.Cheat Days: Yay or Nay?Dr. Alfonsi shares his nuanced view on cheat days and how they can fit into a balanced diet, depending on the individual.From Numbers to NutritionUnderstand the importance of measuring dietary intake and how it can help you make informed choices about your health. Discover how Dr. Alfonsi uses technology to create detailed food logs for better healthcare outcomes.(https://www.rxfood.ca/)05:55 - Impacts of food additives on health.09:53 - Challenges surrounding processed food safety.13:37 - The rise of convenience foods in modern diets.14:21 - Busy lives driving the demand for fast food.19:26 - Benefits of shifting to a healthy diet.21:13 - How sodium-potassium imbalance affects health.25:37 - "Complex Impact of Food Additives" discussion.30:36 - Undervalued non-medical solutions to health issues.34:24 - Analyzing dietary composition and quality.35:53 - "Stepwise Health Strategy" for sustainable changes.39:08 - The importance of transparent nutritional education.42:21 - Objective vs. subjective metrics in evaluating health.47:31 - "Comforting snacks during a snowstorm commute."50:44 - Exploring antidepressants and medication deprescribing.52:05 - Rethinking diet and its environmental harms.DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.   >>>>>> The expressed opinions belong solely to the hosts and guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Hospitals, Clinics, Universities, or any other organization associated with the host or guests.       Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. 

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  55:19

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