Rare Wellness Podcast (by Center for Regenerative and Performance Medicine)

Progesterone: Why Optimization and Replacement Matters During Your 30s, 40s and BeyondWith Becca Pabona & Jeralee Kidd, Performance Medicine NursesIn this episode of The Rare Wellness Podcast, Performance Medicine Nurses Becca Pabona and Jeralee Kidd explore an often-overlooked but critically important hormone in women’s health: progesterone.While estrogen typically gets the spotlight in midlife conversations—especially around hot flashes and night sweats—this discussion highlights how progesterone is often the first hormone to decline during perimenopause, sometimes years before menopause begins.Becca and Jeralee break down:Why progesterone plays a key role in sleep quality, anxiety regulation, mood stability, and brain healthHow declining progesterone can lead to symptoms like insomnia (especially waking at 2–3 AM), “wired but tired” anxiety, mood swings, heavier periods, migraines, and worsening PMSThe science behind progesterone’s calming effect on the brain through the GABA-A receptor pathwayWhy micronized (bioidentical) progesterone differs significantly from synthetic progestins used in earlier hormone studiesThe importance of symptom-guided optimization, not just lab-based decision-makingWhy progesterone therapy, when used appropriately, can be one of the safest and most impactful interventionsfor perimenopausal womenJeralee also shares her personal experience with progesterone and how addressing this hormone transformed her sleep and anxiety—insights she now sees reflected in many patients at the Center for Regenerative and Performance Medicine.If you’re in your late 30s, 40s, or early 50s and feel like “something is off,” this episode may help you understand why it may not be stress or aging alone—it could be progesterone.For more information, visit www.spokaneht.com.

Bhasin S, et al.Prostate Safety Events During Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Men With Hypogonadism: A Randomized Clinical Trial (TRAVERSE).JAMA Network Open. 2023;6(12):e2342583.Araujo AB, et al.Clinical review: Endogenous testosterone and mortality in men: a systematic review and meta-analysis.Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2011;96(10):3007–3019.Corona G, et al.Testosterone and metabolic syndrome: a meta-analysis study.Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2011;8(1):272–283.Davis SR, et al.Global Consensus Position Statement on the Use of Testosterone Therapy for Women.Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2019;104(10):4660–4666.Finkelstein JS, et al.Gonadal steroids and body composition, strength, and sexual function in men.New England Journal of Medicine. 2013;369:1011–1022.Rosner W, et al.Utility, limitations, and pitfalls in measuring testosterone: an Endocrine Society position statement.Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2007;92(2):405–413.

Evidence Cited In This Episode1. Prostate Safety and the TRAVERSE Trial (Randomized Clinical Trial)Bhasin et al. Prostate Safety Events During Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Men With Hypogonadism: A Randomized Clinical Trial — JAMA Network Open (TRAVERSE).https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/28132932. Prostate Tissue Effects of TRTMarks et al., Effect of Testosterone Replacement Therapy on Prostate Tissue in Aging Men — JAMA 2006 (Demonstrates minimal change in prostate tissue androgen concentrations with TRT).https://www.hormonebalance.org/images/documents/Marks%2006%20Testosterone%20and%20Prostate%20cancer%20JAMA.pdf3. Prostate Risk and Monitoring During TRT (Review)Academic review of TRAVERSE and other randomized trials summarizing prostate safety outcomes and the importance of monitoring during TRT.https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/109/8/1975/76754614. Harvard Health Commentary on TRT & Prostate Cancer RiskHarvard Health Publishing: Appropriate use of testosterone therapy does not appear to raise prostate cancer risk (comments on randomized evidence showing no increased risk over ~3 years).https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/appropriate-use-of-testosterone-therapy-does-not-appear-to-raise-prostate-cancer-risk

How much protein do you actually need for muscle, metabolic health, and longevity—and do branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) really matter?In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down the science behind protein intake, modern research on optimal dosing, and when BCAAs are helpful—or unnecessary. While traditional protein recommendations focus on preventing deficiency, emerging research shows that optimal protein intake is significantly higher, especially for preserving muscle, metabolic health, and resilience as we age.You’ll learn:🍽️Why muscle acts as your body’s amino acid reservoir🍽️The difference between minimum vs optimal protein intake🍽️Evidence-based protein targets for strength and longevity🍽️Why spreading protein across meals matters🍽️The role of leucine and the muscle protein synthesis “on switch”🍽️When BCAAs make sense (and when they don’t)🍽️Special considerations for vegetarians, older adults, fasted training, and GLP-1 medicationsDr. Lewis explains why many experts now recommend 1.6–2.0 g/kg/day of protein for optimal function—and why fears around higher protein intake are largely unsupported in healthy adults. This episode provides practical, science-backed guidance to help you protect muscle, improve metabolic health, and support healthy aging without hype or extremes.🏥 Sponsor: Center for Regenerative and Performance Medicine🌐 Learn more at c4rpm.com👍 If you found this episode helpful, please like, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who wants to age stronger and healthier.

Creatine is often labeled as a “gym supplement,” but it is so much more.In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down what creatine really is, how it works inside the body, and why it’s one of the most researched and effective supplements for muscle strength, brain health, and healthy aging.In this episode, you’ll learn:• How creatine supports muscle strength and helps combat age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia)• Why creatine may improve cognitive performance and mental resilience under stress• The truth about creatine safety, kidney health, and common myths• Evidence-based dosing strategies for performance, longevity, and recovery• How creatine fits into regenerative and performance medicine programsCreatine isn’t a replacement for good sleep, nutrition, and training—but when those foundations are in place, it can be a powerful force multiplier for long-term health and function.🎙️ Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis🏥 Sponsored by Center for Regenerative and Performance Medicine🌐 Learn more at c4rpm.comIf you found value in this episode, please like, subscribe, comment, and share to help us continue delivering evidence-based wellness insights.

🔥 Visceral fat is one of the most dangerous—and most misunderstood—forms of fat.In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, host Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down what visceral fat is, why it’s far more harmful than subcutaneous fat (what most people think of when they hear "fat"), and—most importantly—what you can do to reduce it using evidence-based strategies.You’ll learn why where fat is stored matters more than how much you weigh, and why two people with the same body weight can have completely different health risks.Key Topics Covered:• Why visceral fat drives chronic inflammation• Its link to insulin resistance and fatty liver disease• How visceral fat disrupts testosterone, estrogen, and cortisol• Why BMI alone is a poor marker of metabolic health• How to assess visceral fat (DEXA, waist circumference, labs)• Proven strategies to reduce visceral fat through sleep, exercise, nutrition, stress management, and targeted therapiesThe good news? Visceral fat is highly responsive to lifestyle change—and often the first fat your body burns when metabolic health improves.🎙️ Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis🌲 Sponsored by Center for Regenerative and Performance Medicine👉 Learn more at c4rpm.com👍 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe for more bite-sized insights on longevity, hormones, and regenerative medicine.

In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, host Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down the science behind exosomes, cutting through the hype to explain what they actually do — and what they don’t do — in regenerative medicine.Exosomes have rapidly gained attention in the wellness and orthopedic space, often advertised as injectable solutions for pain, injury, and anti-aging. But the real story is far more nuanced 🔬. Dr. Lewis explains that exosomes are biological messengers, not living cells — and that true healing requires activating your body’s own regenerative systems 🧬.🔑 Key Takeaways from This Episode:✅ What exosomes are and how they function as cellular “text messages”✅ Why platelets act as your body’s first responders 🚒✅ The critical role of stem cells as the “general contractors” of healing 🏗️✅ Why exogenous (donor-derived) exosomes don’t align with how biology actually works✅ The FDA’s position on off-the-shelf exosome products ⚠️✅ Why autologous regenerative therapies are biologically sound approachesDr. Lewis uses clear analogies and real-world examples to explain why real regeneration comes from living cells responding to your specific injury, not disconnected signals from a petri dish. This episode empowers you to make informed decisions and avoid misleading regenerative medicine claims.🌲 This episode is sponsored by the Center for Regenerative & Performance Medicine.Learn more at 👉 www. c4rpm.com👍 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe to the Rare Wellness Podcast for more bite-sized insights on longevity, hormone health, and regenerative medicine.

⚡️GLP-1 medications like semaglutide are best known for helping with weight loss and blood sugar—but could they also reduce inflammation and chronic pain?In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down the science behind how GLP-1 receptor agonists may impact systemic inflammation, joint pain, and long-term disease risk. Whether you're managing autoimmune issues, metabolic dysfunction, or just looking to improve recovery, this episode connects the dots between GLP-1, inflammation, and regenerative health.In this episode, you’ll learn:⚡️What GLP-1 drugs actually do in the body⚡️The connection between metabolic health, inflammation & chronic pain⚡️Why GLP-1s may help with arthritis, joint pain, and tissue healing⚡️The pros, cons, and science-backed uses of GLP-1s beyond weight loss🎧 Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis🔬 Sponsored by the Center for Regenerative Medicine🌐 Learn more: c4rpm.com and rarewellness.com🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!Key Citations: • Healio Rheumatology, 2025: GLP-1 Agents Can Help Lower Systemic Inflammation (link) • Frontiers in Immunology, 2023: The Role of GLP-1 in Immune Modulation. • Diabetes Therapy, 2023: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Inflammatory Marker Reduction Independent of Weight Loss.

Creatine is not just for bodybuilders. In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis sits down with Dr. Howard Grattan to break down the real science behind creatine and essential amino acids for muscle health, performance, and aging.Whether you're a serious athlete or just want to stay strong and healthy as you age, this episode is packed with takeaways you can apply right now.💪 What creatine actually does inside your body🍽️ Why essential amino acids (EAAs) are a game-changer for muscle growth🧬 How these supplements support longevity, recovery, and cellular function⚠️ Common myths about creatine and amino acids—debunked by the science✅ Dosage tips and timing strategies to maximize effectiveness🔬 Sponsored by the Center for Regenerative Medicine🌐 Learn more: c4rpm.com and rarewellness.comReferences for Show Notes: 1. Forbes SC, Little JP, Candow DG. Exercise and nutritional interventions for improving aging muscle health. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle. 2021;12(1):1-21. doi:10.1002/jcsm.12659. [PMID: 33856389] 2. Devries MC, Phillips SM. Creatine supplementation during rehabilitation of disuse-induced muscle atrophy. J Physiol. 2020;598(12):2307-2319. [PMID: 32096063] 3. Turner CE, Byblow WD, Gant N. Creatine supplementation enhances cognitive performance and brain bioenergetics. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2020;17(1):1-10. [PMID: 32486065] 4. Dalle S, Rossmeislová L, Koppo K. The Role of Inflammation in Age-Related Sarcopenia. Front Physiol. 2019;10:302. doi:10.3389/fphys.2019.00302. [PMID: 30845725] 5. Jäger R, et al. International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: Protein and exercise. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2017;14:20. [PMID: 28919842]

Wondering what to eat for a longer, healthier life? In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis walks you through how to build a Longevity Plate—a sustainable, science-backed approach to eating for healthspan, not just weight loss.You’ll learn:✅ The role of nutrition in aging and inflammation✅ How food impacts longevity, disease risk, and recovery✅ Which foods to prioritize—and which ones to limit✅ The biggest nutrition myths that hurt long-term healthWhether you're optimizing your routine or just starting your health journey, this episode gives you actionable steps for eating with purpose and long-term impact.🔗 Listen now and follow for more expert content on regenerative medicine, longevity, and functional wellness.CITATIONS 1. Bauer J, et al. Nutrients. 2018;10(3):377. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5872778/ 2. Reynolds A, et al. The Lancet. 2019;393(10170):434–445. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(18)31809-9 3. Srour B, et al. BMJ. 2019;365:l1149. https://www.bmj.com/content/365/bmj.l1149

Can your metabolism make or break your regenerative treatment? In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down the crucial link between metabolic health and regenerative outcomes.🧠 Discover why your body's ability to regulate blood sugar, inflammation, and cellular repair could determine whether treatments like PRP or stem cell therapy actually work.We cover:✅ How insulin resistance and inflammation sabotage recovery✅ Why muscle mass, sleep, and stress management matter more than you think✅ Practical strategies to improve your metabolic health before undergoing treatment✅ The future of regenerative medicine + performance optimizationIf you're investing in regenerative therapies, this episode is essential listening. Your internal environment could be the key to healing—or your biggest obstacle.🎧 Listen now and learn how to prep your body for optimal results.📚 References:[^1]: Wang M et al. Cell Metab. 2016;24(4):585-598.[^2]: Zhao Q et al. Stem Cells Int. 2020.[^3]: Di Martino A et al. Int Orthop. 2021;45(3):805–811.[^4]: Ko JH et al. Stem Cells Int. 2016.

What should you eat—and what should you avoid—if your goal is building strength and muscle that lasts? In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis and Dr. Andrew Mock dive deep into the foundations of nutrition and supplementation for muscle growth, performance, and recovery.Whether you're an athlete or simply looking to age stronger, this episode delivers practical, science-backed insights to help you fuel your body for results.🔍 Key topics we cover:⚡️Macronutrients: How much protein, carbs, and fat do you really need?⚡️Timing your meals and workouts for max muscle gain⚡️Common myths about bulking and cutting⚡️Supplements that actually work (and which ones to skip)⚡️How to support recovery, reduce inflammation, and boost performance naturally⚡️Nutrition strategies for aging adults who want to maintain strengthIf you want to train smarter, eat better, and recover faster, this is your blueprint.🎙 Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis👨‍⚕️ Guest: Dr. Andrew Mock – strength athlete and physician🔬 Sponsored by the Northwest Center for Regenerative Medicine🌐 Learn more: nwc4rm.com and rarewellness.com👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more weekly insights on regenerative medicine, hormone balance, and natural performance optimization.

Did you know that muscle is one of the most powerful predictors of long-term health and longevity? In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis explores why building and maintaining muscle mass isn't just for athletes — it's critical for metabolic health, immune function, hormone balance, and even your brain.We break down the latest research on muscle as an endocrine organ, how it influences inflammation, insulin sensitivity, and the aging process, and what you can do starting today to preserve muscle and optimize your health. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, recovering from injury, or simply want to age well, this episode is a must-listen.🎙 Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis💥 Sponsored by Northwest Center for Regenerative Medicine👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more science-backed strategies to take control of your health.

Is regenerative medicine too expensive—or is it one of the smartest health investments you can make?In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis dives into the real cost of regenerative medicine, breaking down what you’re actually paying for, what alternatives really cost in the long run, and why cutting-edge therapies can offer more than just symptom relief—they can offer lasting solutions.We unpack:✅Why regenerative therapies aren't covered by insurance✅How these treatments compare to surgery, medications, and downtime✅The hidden cost of waiting or choosing the wrong provider✅Why value matters more than price when it comes to your healthIf you’re exploring PRP, stem cells, or advanced joint treatments but are unsure whether it’s worth it—this episode is for you. Dr. Lewis explains how to think about value vs. price when it comes to your body, performance, and long-term health.🎙 Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis🔬 Sponsored by Northwest Center for Regenerative Medicine📍 Learn more at nwc4rm.com and rarewellness.com👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more science-backed health insights!

Choosing a regenerative medicine clinic isn't just about location — it's about quality, expertise, and making sure you're getting the right menu of treatments for your specific needs. In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down why "the menu matters" when selecting a clinic for stem cell therapy, PRP, and other regenerative treatments.Learn how to spot the difference between clinics that offer one-size-fits-all solutions and those that customize your care based on your biology. We’ll explore key factors you should look for: like treatment options, platelet dose measurement, stem cell sourcing, and how clinics track outcomes.Your health deserves more than guesswork. Whether you're seeking healing for knee osteoarthritis, tendon injuries, or other chronic conditions, knowing what questions to ask can make all the difference.🎙 Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis🎯 Sponsored by Northwest Center for Regenerative Medicine📍 Learn more: nwc4rm.com and rarewellness.com💡 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert wellness insights!

When it comes to Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, not all doses are created equal. In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis explains why precision matters when it comes to regenerative treatments—especially PRP.Many clinics offer a “one-size-fits-all” approach to PRP injections, but the science says otherwise. Dr. Lewis discusses how the concentration and volume of platelets can dramatically impact results for conditions like joint pain, injury recovery, and soft tissue repair.We’ll explore:✅The difference between high-dose and low-dose PRP✅How platelet counts are measured and optimized✅Why personalized protocols outperform generic treatments✅The most common mistakes made in PRP therapy✅What to ask your provider before getting PRPWhether you’re considering PRP for knee pain, tennis elbow, hair restoration, or post-surgical healing, this episode arms you with the knowledge you need to make informed, empowered decisions.🎙 Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis🔬 Sponsored by the Northwest Center for Regenerative Medicine📍 Learn more: https://nwc4rm.com and www.rarewellness.com👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more expert-backed wellness content!

Is knee pain slowing you down? Before you commit to surgery, discover a powerful, non-invasive alternative: stem cell therapy.In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis breaks down how regenerative stem cell treatments are helping patients with knee osteoarthritis regain mobility, reduce pain, and avoid knee replacements altogether. Learn how these cutting-edge therapies use your body’s own cells to restore damaged tissue, reduce inflammation, and promote long-term healing.Whether you’re an athlete, an active adult, or someone simply looking to stay mobile as you age, this episode is packed with insights on how stem cell therapy can help you stay on your feet—without going under the knife.✅ Learn how stem cell therapy works✅ Who’s a good candidate for regenerative knee treatments✅ How it compares to surgery and cortisone shots✅ What kind of results to expect🎙 Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis💉 Sponsored by the Northwest Center for Regenerative Medicine → nwc4rm.com and www.rarewellness.com👇 Like, comment, and subscribe for more natural solutions to chronic pain, aging, and performance optimization.

What’s really inside fetal-derived tissue products—and are they as effective as advertised? In this eye-opening episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis dives deep into the facts and myths surrounding fetal tissue in regenerative medicine. You’ll learn why these products often contain little to no actual stem cells, and how this impacts their effectiveness.Dr. Lewis compares fetal-derived products with autologous stem cells—the ones taken directly from your own body—and explains why the latter often deliver more reliable results. Backed by science and real clinical experience, this episode provides critical insights for anyone considering regenerative treatments for chronic pain, injury recovery, or age-related degeneration.🎯 Topics covered:What’s actually in fetal tissue products?Why most samples contain 0% viable stem cellsThe benefits of using your body’s own cells (autologous)How stem cell viability is tested in clinical labsWhat to look for in a safe and effective regenerative treatment🎙 Hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis💥 Sponsored by Northwest Center for Regenerative Medicine📍 Visit nwc4rm.com and www.rarewellness.com to learn more about cutting-edge therapies in regenerative and performance medicine.👍 Like this video if you learned something new💬 Comment below with your questions or experiences🔔 Subscribe for more weekly insights on natural healing and longevity

In this episode of the Rare Wellness Podcast, Dr. Jamie Lewis delves into the world of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy—a groundbreaking approach in regenerative medicine. PRP utilizes components of your own blood to accelerate healing and rejuvenation across various medical and aesthetic applications.​🔬 Key Topics Discussed:✅The science behind PRP: How it's prepared and functions​✅Medical conditions and aesthetic concerns treatable with PRP​✅Insights into the procedure: What patients can expect​✅Evaluating the effectiveness and safety of PRP treatments​Dr. Lewis provides a comprehensive overview, offering valuable insights for those considering PRP therapy as part of their health and wellness journey.​🎙 Sponsored by Northwest Center for Regenerative Medicine Explore cutting-edge regenerative treatments at nwc4rm.com and www.rarewellness.com💡 Enjoyed this episode? Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert discussions on health, longevity, and regenerative medicine!​

Welcome to Episode 2 of the Rare Wellness Podcast, hosted by Dr. Jamie Lewis. In this insightful episode, Dr. Lewis introduces the concept of regenerative medicine, exploring its foundational principles, applications, and the potential it holds for enhancing health and promoting longevity.🔑Key Takeaways:✅Definition and Scope: Regenerative medicine focuses on repairing, replacing, or regenerating human cells, tissues, or organs to restore or establish normal function.✅Applications: It encompasses a range of therapies, including stem cell therapy, tissue engineering, and the use of biologics, aiming to heal damaged tissues and organs, offering hope for conditions previously deemed irreparable.✅Benefits: Potential advantages include reduced reliance on traditional medications, minimized need for surgeries, and the promotion of natural healing processes, contributing to improved quality of life and extended healthspan.Dr. Lewis emphasizes the importance of understanding these emerging therapies and how they can be integrated into personalized health strategies. By staying informed, individuals can make empowered decisions about their health journeys.This podcast is proudly sponsored by the Northwest Center for Regenerative Medicine, located in the beautiful Pacific Northwest.🔗For more information, visit nwc4rm.com and www.rarewellness.com🔔 Enjoyed this episode? Like, comment, & subscribe for more expert insights! 📩✅Your support enables us to continue providing free content that empowers you to take control of your health.