Fix Your Digestion: Solutions for Bloating, Gas, + Gut Health | BIOptimizers
246: If you're dealing with gas, bloating, heartburn, constipation, or diarrhea, you’re going to want to hear this conversation. I’m joined by Wade Lightheart, co-founder of BiOptimizers, to dive into real, actionable strategies you can start using today to optimize your digestion and feel better fast.
We break down how digestive challenges can impact not just your gut, but also your brain function and overall quality of life through the gut-brain connection. I also share my own story of struggling with severe heartburn in college—and how addressing digestion can make a huge difference beyond just symptom relief.
Go to bioptimizers.com/realfoodology for 10% off any order with code realfoodology
Topics Discussed:
How can I naturally improve digestion and reduce symptoms like gas, bloating, and heartburn?
What role do digestive enzymes and supplements play in gut health?
How are digestion issues connected to brain fog and cognitive problems?
What are the best ways to heal an inflamed gut and support overall digestive function?
How do you choose high-quality digestive health supplements that actually work?
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:03:57 - The science of digestion
00:09:34 - Supplementation and chronic illness
00:12:14 - Animal studies
00:15:31 - Current research
00:17:56 - Surge in digestive issues
00:21:36 - Dosing enzymes
00:26:43 - Digesting protein & amino acids
00:30:14 - Improving digestion
00:32:08 - HCL production & immune strength
00:35:28 - High protein diet
00:37:55 - Healing an inflamed gut
00:43:23 - Product integrity
00:47:40 - Lifestyle change recommendations
00:50:30 - Find the diet that works for you
00:53:35 - Food allergies
00:56:41 - Advice for those struggling with gut problems
01:00:17 - Leaky gut
01:03:32 - How to find BIOptimizers
Sponsored By:
Go to bioptimizers.com/realfoodology for 10% off any order with code realfoodology
Check Out Courtney:
LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE
Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide!
@realfoodology
www.realfoodology.com
My Immune Supplement by 2x4
Air Dr Air Purifier
AquaTru Water Filter
EWG Tap Water Database
Produced By: Drake Peterson
--------
1:05:52
The Future of Healthcare: MAHA, Longevity & Circadian Rhythm Hacks | Gary Brecka
245: In today’s episode, I sit down with longevity expert Gary Brecka to explore how early detection, nutrient science, and personalized protocols are reshaping the future of health. We dive into his journey from working in the insurance world to leading the charge in longevity and wellness.
We cover how diet and lifestyle are finally gaining recognition in mainstream medicine, why U.S. health is a national security issue, and how the MAHA movement is both criticized and celebrated. You’ll also hear insights on anxiety, postpartum depression, ADHD, migraines, and the powerful role of cellular health plays in your overall well-being.
This episode is packed with practical tips, research-backed insights, and inspiring takeaways.
Topics Covered:
What the MAHA movement is and why it matters
How to naturally fix your circadian rhythm and improve sleep
The link between anxiety, gut health, and hormones
Nutrient deficiencies, especially B12 and folate
Gary Brecka’s path from longevity insurance to biohacking
Timestamps:
00:00:00 – Intro
00:05:27 – Insurance & Longevity Science
00:10:03 – Diet, Lifestyle & Mainstream Medicine
00:14:18 – Criticism of the MAHA Movement
00:18:41 – Health Policy Awareness Gaps
00:20:32 – U.S. Health as a National Security Risk
00:22:58 – Cellular Health & Nutrient Deficiency
00:25:19 – Healthspan vs Lifespan
00:29:26 – MAHA’s Positive Contributions
00:32:26 – Allopathic Medicine & Missed Symptoms
00:35:37 – Anxiety, Gut Health & Catecholamines
00:42:03 – Postpartum Depression & Folic Acid
00:47:06 – ADHD, Rumination & Circadian Rhythm
00:54:32 – Catecholamines: Warriors vs Worriers
00:57:01 – Lowering Catecholamine Levels
00:59:19 – B12 Levels Explained
01:00:58 – Hydrogen Tablets: Worth It?
01:05:52 – Migraine Causes & Relief Tips
01:07:39 – Top Healthy Habits to Start Now
Show Links:
Severe Headache or Migraine History Is Inversely Correlated With Dietary Sodium
Sponsored By:
LMNT | Get your free Sample Pack with any LMNT drink mix purchase at drinklmnt.com/realfoodology
BIOptimizers | For an exclusive offer go to bioptimizers.com/realfoodology and use promo code REALFOODOLOGY
Paleovalley | Save at 15% at paleovalley.com/realfoodology and use code REALFOODOLOGY
MANUKORA | Go to Manukora.com/REALFOODOLOGY to get $25 off the Starter Kit, which comes with an MGO 850+ Manuka Honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook!
Ollie | Head to Ollie.com/REALFOODOLOGY, tell them all about your dog, and use code REALFOODOLOGY to get 60% off your Welcome Kit when you subscribe today!
Cozy Earth | Go to cozyearth.com and Use code REALFOODOLOGY for 40% off best-selling sheets, pajamas, and more.
Check out Gary Brecka:
Instagram
The Ultimate Human
Check Out Courtney
LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE
Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide!
@realfoodology
www.realfoodology.com
My Immune Supplement by 2x4
Air Dr Air Purifier
AquaTru Water Filter
EWG Tap Water Database
Produced By: Drake Peterson
--------
1:13:29
Natural Birth, Epidurals, + The Real Risks of Formula | Lindsey Meehleis
244: This week, I’m joined by Lindsey Meehleis, a certified midwife, doula, lactation consultant, EMT, CPR instructor, and neonatal resuscitation provider. Lindsey brings a truly holistic approach to birth, and our conversation dives deep into the importance of honoring the natural physiology of labor. As someone on my own fertility journey, I asked all the questions I’ve been curious about — from how to find a midwife to what real support during birth looks like.
We explore the over-medicalization of birth in the Western world, how to prepare for a more empowered and informed birthing experience, and why individualized care matters so much. Lindsey’s wisdom and passion for supporting women through this rite of passage is incredibly inspiring — I left this conversation wanting her by my side when I give birth someday.
Topics Discussed:
What is the difference between a midwife and a doula?
How can I prepare for a natural birth in a medicalized world?
Are epidurals and Pitocin necessary for every labor?
What are the risks of relying on baby formula over breastfeeding?
How to find a trustworthy midwife or doula?
Sponsored By:
Our Place | Use code REALFOODOLOGY for 10% off at fromourplace.com
Timeline | Go to timelinenutrition.com/REALFOODOLOGY and use code REALFOODOLOGY for 10% off
Qualia | Go to qualialife.com/REALFOODOLOGY for up to 50% off and use code REALFOODOLOGY at checkout for an additional 15% off.
Pique | Piquelife.com/Realfoodology That’s P-I-Q-U-E life dot
com/REALFOODOLOGY.
Graza | So head to Graza.co and use REALFOODOLOGY to get 10% off of TRIO which includes Sizzle, Frizzle and Drizzle, and get to cookin’ your next chef-quality meal!
Cozy Earth | Go to cozyearth.com and Use code REALFOODOLOGY for 40% off best-selling sheets, pajamas, and more. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 – Introduction
00:03:42 – How birth became medicalized
00:06:51 – The "PuberTea" and early health education
00:08:17 – Navigating pregnancy in the Western world
00:13:18 – Epidurals, fentanyl, and early latching challenges
00:18:10 – The risks of baby formula
00:22:25 – The impact of high fructose corn syrup
00:24:14 – Maternity leave and postpartum support
00:26:34 – Latching tips & working with lactation consultants
00:31:51 – The truth about breastfeeding
00:33:46 – A brief history of birth practices
00:35:01 – C-sections, vaginal seeding, and gut health
00:37:40 – Learning to trust your body
00:39:31 – Pitocin, natural birth, and informed choices
00:44:11 – Advocacy and the MAHA Mom Coalition
00:48:44 – Environmental toxins: Glyphosate and fertility
00:51:52 – Understanding gestational diabetes
00:55:40 – Birth centers vs. hospitals
01:00:04 – How to find a midwife or doula
01:02:13 – Managing emergencies during birth
01:07:10 – Why individualized birth care matters
01:09:10 – Midwife vs. Doula: What's the difference?
01:10:53 – Addressing concerns about home birth
01:13:58 – Where to find Lindsey Meehleis
Show Links:
Sperm counts have declined by over 50% globally
The U.S. fertility rate has dropped from 2.48 in 1970 to just 1.64 toda
The U.S. maternal mortality rate has increased by over 60% in two years
Black women are 2.6 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women.
Hispanic maternal mortality rates The World Needs 900,000 More Midwives
Breastfeeding rates
Worker protections need to be implemented
Check Out Lindsey:
Instagram
https://www.theremembering.com/media
https://www.maha-mom-coalition.com/
Check Out Courtney:
LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE
Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide!
@realfoodology
www.realfoodology.com
My Immune Supplement by 2x4
Air Dr Air Purifier
AquaTru Water Filter
EWG Tap Water Database
Produced By: Drake Peterson
--------
1:14:59
Breast Cancer Prevention Without Radiation or Mammograms | Dr. Jenn Simmons
243: In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Simmons, a former top breast cancer surgeon turned functional medicine expert. We discuss her journey from conventional medicine to a root-cause-focused approach, and what inspired her to launch Real Health MD and perfeQTion Imaging.
I had the incredible opportunity to visit her imaging center in Philadelphia for a breast scan, and it was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced—non-invasive, painless, and completely radiation-free. We talk all about this alternative to traditional mammograms and the many ways women can take proactive steps toward better breast health without fear or discomfort.
Topics Discussed:
What is perfeQTion Imaging and how does it compare to traditional mammograms?
Are there non-invasive and radiation-free options for breast cancer screening?
How does functional medicine approach breast cancer prevention and treatment?
What are the side effects of traditional breast cancer treatments and are there alternatives?
How can lifestyle and diet influence your risk for breast cancer?
Sponsored By:
LMNT | Get your free Sample Pack with any LMNT drink mix purchase at drinklmnt.com/realfoodology
BIOptimizers | For an exclusive offer go to bioptimizers.com/realfoodology and use promo code REALFOODOLOGY
Paleovalley | Save at 15% at paleovalley.com/realfoodology and use code REALFOODOLOGY
MANUKORA | Go to Manukora.com/REALFOODOLOGY to get $25 off the Starter Kit, which comes with an MGO 850+ Manuka Honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook!
Ollie | Head to Ollie.com/REALFOODOLOGY, tell them all about your dog, and use code REALFOODOLOGY to get 60% off your Welcome Kit when you subscribe today!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 – Introduction
00:03:27 – Dr. Simmons’ Background
00:08:39 – Dr. Mark Hyman & Functional Medicine
00:14:28 – Rethinking Mammograms
00:24:22 – Breast Cancer Treatment Options
00:27:10 – Treatment Side Effects
00:31:55 – Synthetic Hormones
00:34:24 – Infertility & IVF
00:35:10 – Breast Cancer Screening
00:39:12 – Stage 0 Breast Cancer
00:41:22 – Root Cause Approach
00:42:41 – Leaving Surgery Behind
00:49:59 – Nutrition During Chemo
00:52:38 – Fasting & Chemo
00:58:34 – Breast Cancer Prevention
01:02:07 – Metabolic Health & Screening
01:06:56 – Dr. Simmon’s breast cancer screenings
01:10:33 – The future of breast cancer prevention
Check Out Dr. Simmons:
Website
Instagram
The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer (book)
Check Out Courtney:
LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE
Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide!
@realfoodology
www.realfoodology.com
My Immune Supplement by 2x4
Air Dr Air Purifier
AquaTru Water Filter
EWG Tap Water Database
Produced By: Drake Peterson
--------
1:18:58
The Link Between Fluoride, Lower IQ, + Dangerous Industrial Waste | Dr. Staci Whitman
242: Fluoride in our water isn’t as safe or effective as we’ve been told. I sat down with functional dentist Dr. Staci Whitman to explore its toxic origins, health risks like dental fluorosis and neurological issues, and why fluoride levels are so hard to regulate. We also dive into the real drivers of dental health—like diet and processed foods—plus how to remove fluoride from your water and advocate for safer policies.
Topics Discussed:
What are the health risks associated with fluoride in drinking water?
How does fluoride in water impact dental health and IQ levels?
Why is it difficult to regulate fluoride levels in public water systems?
What role does diet and processed food play in dental health?
How can you remove fluoride from your drinking water and advocate for safer policies?
For 20% off any Fygg purchase use code REALFOODOLOGY
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:01:01 - Dr. Staci Whitman’s Background
00:02:36 - History of Water Fluoridation
00:04:13 - Toxic Chemical Industry and Fluoride
00:08:05 - Fluoride in Everyday Products
00:10:25 - Fluoride and Cavity Prevention
00:12:17 - Neurological Effects of Fluoride
00:18:37 - Cavity Rates and Fluoride’s Impact
00:19:23 - Tracking Fluoride Levels
00:21:13 - Fluoride and Lowered IQ
00:23:35 - Removing Fluoride from Your Water
00:27:17 - Joining the Fluoride Awareness Movement
00:28:57 - The Cost of Safe Water
Check Dr. Staci:
Instagram
Website
More Dr. Staci
For 20% off any Fygg purchase use code REALFOODOLOGY
Check Out Courtney:
LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE
Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide!
@realfoodology
www.realfoodology.com
My Immune Supplement by 2x4
Air Dr Air Purifier
AquaTru Water Filter
EWG Tap Water Database
Produced By: Drake Peterson
Welcome to the Realfoodology podcast, with your host Courtney Swan. Courtney is a passionate food activist on a mission to heal America’s broken food system. Her show cuts through the noise by tackling the critical issues that impact our health and society as a whole. Each week, join Courtney as she brings together leading voices in food policy, nutrition, sustainability, and wellness to unravel the complexities behind our broken food system, and to simplify how we look at nutrition and food. From debunking misleading health trends to exploring the future of sustainable food systems, Realfoodology equips listeners with actionable insights and empowers them to make informed choices. Whether you’re passionate about healthy living, curious about the politics of food, or simply want to live better, this is your go-to source for conversations that matter. Discover a healthier way to live with Realfoodology. For more info, visit www.realfoodology.com and follow Courtney on Instagram, @realfoodology. NEW EPISODES EVERY TUESDAY
Produced By Wellness Loud.