A Functional Approach with Dr. Jim Chialtas

In this 153rd episode, I speak with Morgan Smith, CEO of Kalm with Kava, founder of Pu'iwa Hawaiian Farms, and Board member of the International Kava Organization.We discuss concepts about how kava came into his life, and how this herb helped him manage the ever-increasing stresses of work and family.We discuss how this herb, kava, works in the body, where and how it is grown, some cautions of its use, and some traditional ceremonial practices used by indigenous people of the Pacific Islands.If you have never heard of kava before, I encourage you to listen in on this one. Morgan is a wealth of information, and we had a wonderful discussion.My apologies for the audio static in the very beginning of the episode. We got it sorted out quickly, so hang in there!You can find Morgan and his products through his website and social media links here:www.kalmwithkava.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/KalmwithKavaInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/explore/search/keyword/?q=Calm%20with%20kavaReddit:  https://www.reddit.com/r/kalmwithkava/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Drinkkalm

In this 152nd episode, I speak with Prashanthi Amarnath about how Taoist principles can help reshape our relationship to uncertainty, fear, decision‑making, and our emotional life. We discuss how uncertainty affects physiology and the nervous system. The conversation explores why the mind resists paradox and how cultivating perceptual flexibility — the “non‑fixed mind” Lao Tzu describes — expands relational attunement and emotional plasticity. We discuss the concept of "wu wei" as an inner posture of effortless responsiveness rather than passivity, and discuss how embracing paradox can free decision‑making. We discuss these things and much more! Tune in for a lovely conversation.You can find Prashanthi's book Embracing Paradox through Amazon here: https://a.co/d/cibPyFn

In this 151st episode, we unpack Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) — often called “fertilizer for the brain.” We explore what BDNF is, why it matters for learning, memory, and mood, and how low BDNF shows up in conditions like depression, cognitive decline, and neurodegenerative disease. Then we dive into evidence-based strategies to naturally support BDNF through exercise, nutrition, sleep, stress management, and targeted supplements, plus emerging data on acupuncture.Citations: Electroacupuncture at the Baihui acupoint alleviates cognitive impairment and exerts neuroprotective effects by modulating the expression and processing of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in APP/PS1 transgenic micehttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26739187/The neuroprotective role of acupuncture and activation of the BDNF signaling pathwayhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24566146/Potential Moderators of Physical Activity on Brain Healthhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3523571/Neuroplasticity - exercise-induced response of peripheral brain-derived neurotrophic factor: a systematic review of experimental studies in human subjectshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20726622/Brain foods: the effects of nutrients on brain functionhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2805706/License to run: exercise impacts functional plasticity in the intact and injured central nervous system by using neurotrophinshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16263961/Effects of curcumin on brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels and oxidative damage in obesity and diabeteshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24476477/

In this 150th episode, I take a moment to riff on the importance of letting go of control. Of course, a life without some form of control is chaotic and might lend itself to being controlled by other people or institutions. I am not talking about letting go of complete control. Rather, I am suggesting here that our fixation on being in control could be holding us back or even doing us harm. Take the next 12 or so minutes to listen to this episode and feel into how you might be fixating on control in your own life. And how might fear play into this fixation? When you give this some consideration, you might just find some interesting details about your outlook on life that could be improved. And that is a Functional Approach...

In this 149th episode, I do a deep-dive into autoimmunity, laboratory testing, food sensitivity, chemical sensitivity, and all things immunology. On this day I had the significant honor of sitting down with a giant in the integrative and functional medicine arena, Dr. Aristo Vojdani. I have followed Dr. Vojdani's work since my earliest days of practice back in 2002. The diagnostic approach that he brings to the table through Cyrex Labs was one of the defining concepts in my personal evolution as a clinician. I saw and continue to see a depth of thought and understanding about how the immune system operates that I simply didn't (and still don't) see from other laboratory testing. Dr. Vojdani holds Ph.D.'s in Microbiology & Immunology, is the founder of Immunosciences Laboratories and co-founder of Cyrex Laboratories, has published over 200 articles in highly respected medical journals, holds 17 patents, and has published multiple books. Long story short, Dr. Vojdani is a scientist of merit and one that we are fortunate to have looking out for our health and wellness!You can look further into the work that Dr. Vojdani has offered at the following websites:www.JoinCyrex.comhttps://immunoscienceslab.com/And you can always reach Chase Zittrauer - My Cyrex Labs Rep (who I have had as a guest on my podcast, and who is a wonderful human) at: Chase.Zittrauer@cyrexlabs.com

In this 148th episode we delve into the intricacies of cardiovascular health by shining a light on some often-overlooked cardiovascular risks that could be influencing your heart health: trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), and homocysteine. These biochemical markers provide crucial insights into our cardiovascular health, yet many people remain unaware of their significance or even their existence. Join us as we explore how these compounds are formed, their implications for heart disease, and how you can take control of your cardiovascular well-being.Citations:Mechanistic Insights into the Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein-Induced Atherosclerosishttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33014272/Gut Microbiota in Hypertension and Atherosclerosis: A Reviewhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33003455/Homocysteine Metabolites, Endothelial Dysfunction, and Cardiovascular Diseasehttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39859460/

In this 147th episode, I discuss the recent California law taking effect on Janurary 1, 2026 enforcing the supplementation of Folic Acid into corn masa (corn flour). This will impact corn tortillas, tamales, corn chips, etc. It just so happens that upwards of 40% of the people this new law is intended to protect have a genetic trait where they cannot process folic acid properly. In this episode we will discuss the reasons why California has made this new law, who it is meant to protect, why it is a terrible idea, and how it is a hidden (though likely an unintended) attack against a specific ethnic group. Citations:Folic acid and vitamin B12 fortification of food for preventing neural tube defects in Europehttps://www.bmj.com/content/361/bmj.k1572/rr-0#:~:text=Folic%20acid%20is%20a%20synthetic,unable%20to%20process%20folic%20acid.Circulating folic acid in plasma: relation to folic acid fortificationhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3763811/Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Deficiencyhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK66131/NIH website: Folatehttps://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Folate-HealthProfessional/#:~:text=People%20with%20an%20MTHFR%20polymorphism,defects%20below)%20%5B41%5D.Selenium protects against the likelihood of fetal neural tube defects partly via thearginine metabolic pathwayhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35263693/

In this 146th (bonus) episode, I riff a bit on the concept of ritual as we turn the page of a new year. The focus and motivation of the episode though is one of gratitude and connection. This podcast has covered a lot of topics, but if there is one concept that I hope comes through strongly it is that we are all in this thing together. My hope is that there is something discussed here on this platform that touches your soul in some way. The fact that so many of you have followed along is so touching to me. I have so much gratitude for you all. Thank you so much for your time and attention. I wish you all a very exciting New Year!

In this 145th episode I discuss concepts around "Transitional Flow." This is a concept I became keenly aware of through my training of Ju-Jitsu, so many years ago. Understanding the principles of transitional flow I can see it everywhere. It is certainly useful on the sidewalks, in the market, during conversations or arguments... It is a skill that lends itself to an easier life experience. Keeping with this concept I discuss various lessons and stories from Zen teachers like Alan Watts such as the story of a Zen Master and a Geisha girl. However, the larger point of this episode focuses upon how to live a life in such a way that death becomes something of ease and grace. Are you living a life of struggle? Or are you flowing through life as if in a dance with the cosmos? And how will you face those final moments? With struggle, or with a life of practiced flow?

In this 144th episode I discuss various aspects of pain and suffering. The inspiration for this topic came to me recently as I was laying in bed, suffering from a nasty gluten-induced migraine, feeling sorry for myself, and pondering concepts around how I was processing the pain I was experiencing. I discuss some Traditional Chinese Medical concepts around pain and stagnation, some neurological concepts about how pain is perceived and processed by the brain and nervous system, and riff a little on the philosophy of pain and suffering. By the end of my time there in bed for the second time in a one month period, I came to some conculsions which will help me through my experiences with pain for the rest of my like. There was a phase shift of sorts - A new way of thinking. I would like to share that with you here.And as promised... Here is a link to a previous podcast episode on pain and migraine:"LSD for migraines? Well... Yes, kinda!"https://open.spotify.com/episode/45AjS5DjMkKkBiidHhXjtG?si=zwjGeW-cQc2Sgz4kvMgMlQ

In this 143rd episode I unpack some thoughts about fear. I was inspired about this topic from a recent conversation I heard on the Duncan Trussell Family Hour Podcast between Duncan and Ram Dev. There were many topic discussed but fear came up and it just struck a chord. And so I sat down and wrote out some thoughts...If you are interested to hear the conversation you can check it out here:Duncan Trussell Family Hour #724 - Ram Devhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/5vYIE7nU2zCW6Y8LucFtrx?si=2jnDC_UHTl2vIWVUyykxoQ

In this 142nd episode, we delve into the often-overlooked process of how industrial seed oils are made and why their widespread use may be harmful to our health. From the collection of seeds to the final product, the manufacturing process involves several steps, including high-temperature heating and the use of harmful solvents that raise serious health concerns. We'll uncover the six critical reasons you should be cautious about consuming these oils, touching on issues like their impact on our omega-6 to omega-3 ratios and the potential risks linked to genetically modified ingredients.Additionally, we'll introduce healthier alternatives for cooking oils that can support your well-being without the negative effects associated with industrial seed oils. Join us for an enlightening discussion that could change how you think about the oils you use daily. Don't miss this chance to learn about making better dietary choices for a healthier lifestyle!Literature Citations:Changes in consumption of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the United States during the 20th centuryhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21367944/Heated vegetable oils and cardiovascular disease riskfactorshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24632108/Evaluation of the deleterious health effects of consumptionof repeatedly heated vegetable oilhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5616019/n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Cardiovascular Disease:Principles, Practices, Pitfalls, and Promises – A Contemporary Reviewhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5848472/Dietary lipids and risk of autoimmune diseasehttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8050192/Omega-6 to omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid ratio andsubsequent mood disorders in young people with at-risk mental states: a 7-yearlongitudinal studyhttps://www.nature.com/articles/tp2017190Trans Fat Consumption and Aggressionhttps://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0032175Dietary linoleic acid elevates endogenous 2-AG andanandamide and induces obesityhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22334255/Soybean Oil Is More Obesogenic and Diabetogenic than CoconutOil and Fructose in Mouse: Potential Role for the Liverhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26200659/Omega-6 vegetable oils as a driver of coronary heartdisease: the oxidized linoleic acid hypothesishttps://openheart.bmj.com/content/5/2/e000898A host-microbiome interaction mediates the opposing effectsof omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids on metabolic endotoxemiahttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26062993/Marked elevations in pro-inflammatory polyunsaturated fattyacid metabolites in females with irritable bowel syndromehttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2853445/Home use of vegetable oils, markers of systemicinflammation, and endothelial dysfunction among womenhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18842776/Relationship of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids with semencharacteristics, and anti-oxidant status of seminal plasma: A comparisonbetween fertile and infertile menhttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0261561409001587Dietary fat and risk for advanced age-related maculardegenerationhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11483088/Past Podcast Episode on "Evolutionary Mismatch"Evolutionary Mismatch – A nod to our friends in the Amazonthe Tsimane people in all their wisdom⁠https://open.spotify.com/episode/3xTi2oKVXUhpZxWGCl99vn?si=PQdecXMiRbOcQaBmh5b7XQ⁠

In this 141st episode I sit down with Dr. Eric Schulte. Eric is a doctor of physical therapy and runs a private practice called Movement Academy here in San Diego, CA. I got to know Eric recently and have had a few conversations that let me know he was someone I wanted to have on the podcast. You see, there is PT, and then there is that next level PT. I feel that Dr. Eric embodies the latter. In this episode we discuss topics like physical therapy training/education, insurance-based models vs. out-of-pocket approaches to care, how there is often a link between physical injury and deeper underlying concepts around emotions and mental health, how a knee condition might actually be an ankle condition in disguise, the difference between movement and exercise, how improving movement contributes to higher levels of wellness and longevity, and and much more. If you are interested in learning more about what Dr. Eric has to offer you can find him here:Website: mymovementacademy.com IG: movementacademy__Email: dreric@mymovementacademy.com

In this 140th episode I discuss some important concepts around testosterone replacement therapy in men. This topic came up as a result of a conversation I had recently with a colleague where I talked about some of the more radical concepts I have seen as a result of higher levels of testosterone therapy. There is of course a time and a place for just about anything... And testosterone or any other hormone replacement therapy is not something that I feel is wrong by any means. But I do believe that it is a 'can of worms' in a lot of ways. It can be hard to get it right. As I discussed in a previous episode, hormone levels do not necessarily equal "hormone effect." There is much more to the equation. In this episode I will discuss some of the basic physiology of how testosterone is produced and managed naturally. Knowing this helps us understand how and why hormone replacement may or may not be ideal, and how problems can occur.I discuss my time spent shadowing an HRT doctor (MD) during my Doctorate program, and where I saw first hand some of the unfortunate side effects of high testosterone. And yes... It involves the testicles! If you haven't listened to my past episode on Hormones, check it out here... In this episode I discuss how hormone levels do not equal hormone effect. Meaning, there is much more to the story. So chasing a particular effect like larger muscles, less hot flashes, more vitality, etc. and getting hormone levels higher and higher could lead to unfortunate effects on your health. This episode explores such concepts:https://open.spotify.com/episode/0UysAMJ8G5w8dtLgaa8s7q?si=uvXhtyjqScSusg4FGyA1dA

In this 139th episode I sit down with Chase Zittrauer, Rep for Cyrex Labs, to discuss a new test called the BiomeBurden Complete. This ground breaking lab panel looks at the gut microbiome (bacterial) and mycobiome (yeast/fungus) as seen through the lens of the immune system. By that I mean, given the status of those little microorganisms living in your gut, this lab test looks at how your immune system observes the situation. If for example there is a Candida overgrowth, your immune system may or may not be reacting to the situation the same as the next person. But for many, antibody production against Candida, for example, can lead to immune reactions elsewhere in the body! So gut does not really mean just the gut.... It can mean any other part of your body! And if you are in the autoimmune population, this can be a very important detail to your health and wellness. Consider the person who has been to a ton of doctors, had a bunch of tests run, and still has persistent and "strange" symptoms. Well, there could be a lurking immune cross-reactivity concern at play between organisms in your gut and self-tissues elsewhere int he body. The BiomeBurden Complete can be a great way to start to peel back the layers of the onion so to speak and get to those kinds of immune-driving mechanisms. Chase and I discuss this concept in detail, and more... Much much more. I really enjoyed this conversation and I hope you will as well! You can check out everything that Cyrex Labs has to offer here:https://www.cyrexlabs.com/CyrexTestsArrays/tabid/136/Default.aspxAnd by all means, if anything here calls to you, please reach out. I love this stuff and am happy to help!

In this 138th episode I record from home with my wife Debbie to discuss how it is living with a gluten free member of the family. We discuss the transition from a normal diet to providing the family with a 100% gluten free diet after I discovered my significant gluten sensitivity condition. There were some struggles, there were some discoveries, there was even benefits for the entire family. Debbie and I talk about how it was to make these changes, and even discuss some really yummy meals/dishes that we picked up along the way and that we enjoy as a family today! I hope you enjoy this heart-to-heart discussion with my wife & life partner Debbie who has supported me through so many things, not just my transition into a gluten free life. May our discussion help you and your family if a gluten sensitivity or Celiac Disease diagnosis comes your way. I think that you will get from our chat that it isn't all that bad. In fact, life is still full of yummy things!And as promised, here is a link to my website where I have posted some really awesome gluten free yummies!!! (Not blood sugar friendly however. But the waffles... Oh my goodness, the waffles...)https://functionalmedicine-sandiego.com/search?q=gluten%20free&f_collectionId=5796659c2994ca1f5d9e72daFind Me Gluten Free Website and App:findmeglutenfree.com

In this 137th episode I pop in quickly to share a recent medical experience I had with dermatology. In keeping with my interest in not only detailing what I consider cool and important medical information, riffing and philosophizing on the human experience, and offering some creative writing... I feel obligated to share my personal medical experiences. Because chances are that you have had or will have some similar experiences of your own! This time around I had a few experiences in dermatology. I had a suspicious mole removed and then a follow up procedure to get the rest. Happy to say it wasn't skin cancer, but it was close. Listen in for what happened, and how I feel about the situation. Long story short, I'm happy I submitted to such a procedure. But holy hell... It felt like I was shanked an a freaking alley!!

In this 136th episode we’re taking a another look at the widely accepted belief that saturated fat and cholesterol are the primary causes of heart disease. Despite the well-known risks and the skyrocketing use of statins—prescription rates have increased significantly over the past decade—heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. experiences a heart attack, and over 900,000 Americans die from cardiovascular issues each year. In this episode, we’ll explore the complex and often overlooked mechanisms that contribute to coronary artery disease. Beyond cholesterol, factors such as chronic inflammation, autoimmune responses, hormonal imbalances, toxin exposure, genetics, and infections play vital roles. We’ll focus on certain infections—like H. pylori, cytomegalovirus, and COVID-19—that can silently influence vascular health by causing inflammation, autoimmunity, and tissue damage, often without obvious symptoms.Why do infections matter? Because they can initiate or sustain vascular inflammation, damage arterial walls, and contribute to plaque buildup over time. Understanding these hidden contributors opens the door to more personalized and effective prevention strategies. We’ll discuss how to identify infections through testing, and explore various treatment options—from targeted antibiotics and herbal support to lifestyle changes such as exercise, diet, and stress reduction—that can help address these underlying issues.Join us as we challenge the conventional view and uncover what truly drives heart disease. If you or someone you care about is dealing with cardiovascular concerns, this episode offers new insights that could transform how you view prevention and treatment—because heart health is about much more than just cholesterol.Citations:Statins utilization trends and expenditures in the U.S. before and after theimplementation of the 2013 ACC/AHA guidelineshttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1319016423000841?via%3DihubHelicobacter pylori and cardiovascular complications: a mechanism based review onrole of Helicobacter pylori in cardiovascular diseaseshttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5390428/Cytomegalovirus Localization in Atherosclerotic Plaques is Associated with AcuteCoronary Syndromes: Report of 105 Patientshttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3405798/COVID-19 in the Initiation and Progression of Atherosclerosis: Pathophysiology Duringand Beyond the Acute Phasehttps://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacadv.2024.101107Potential antigenic cross-reactivity between SARS-CoV-2 and human tissue with apossible link to an increase in autoimmune diseaseshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32461193/

In this 135th episode I address my thoughts on turning 50 years old. Hint hint... It is good. ;-)

In this 134th episode I detail what it too for me to earn the highest levels of certification in the Functional Medicine arena. I am officially certified as an Advanced Functional Medicine Clinician (AFMC) through the prestigious Kharrazian Institute. I will detail the curriculum, time spent studying, how this has helped shape my career and life, and how I want to put into use going forward. Hint... The next phase of my practice may end up looking a lot different! The concepts I discuss about my future practice are just that... Concepts that I am throwing around and something I was riffing on out loud in this episode. It is a work in progress. But I am excited about the future and how I may be able to help people heal and grow physically, emotionally, and spiritually.