Claim OwnershipDr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your Health
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Listen to Dr. Mercola's Weekly Podcast, as the legendary natural health pioneer continues to lead you on your journey towards optimal health.
1030 Episodes
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Carrot fiber contains a unique compound called RG-I that works in small amounts to strengthen your gut and immune defenses Even 300 to 500 milligrams daily of RG-I was shown to boost beneficial bacteria, improve stool consistency, and activate immune cells that fight viruses Carrot fiber helps your gut microbes produce protective compounds that lower inflammation and shield organs like your brain, heart, and liver from damage At the same time, it reduces harmful byproducts linked to asthma, fatty liver disease, and cancer risk, shifting your microbiome toward a healthier balance Preparing your gut first by calming inflammation makes carrot fiber even more effective, as it then feeds butyrate-producing bacteria that repair and protect your intestinal lining
Cognitive problems like memory loss, poor focus, and brain fog are rising sharply among younger adults, nearly doubling between 2013 and 2023 Lifestyle and metabolic factors — such as poor diet, stress, sleep disruption, and exposure to seed oils and environmental toxins — are likely fueling this decline in brain health Chronic conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes dramatically increase the risk of cognitive disability by damaging blood vessels, reducing brain oxygen, and driving inflammation Improving gut health, restoring metabolic energy, and managing daily stress through light exposure, breathing, and balanced nutrition are key to protecting your brain Your brain's decline is not inevitable; by eliminating root causes and building daily recovery habits, you can restore focus, memory, and mental clarity at any age
Quitting smoking in midlife or later slows memory loss and mental decline, proving your brain retains the ability to recover at any age Former smokers experience about three years' delay in cognitive aging compared with those who continue to smoke Stopping smoking improves circulation, lowers inflammation, and restores oxygen delivery to your brain, creating ideal conditions for repair Even lifelong smokers begin to see cognitive and cardiovascular benefits within just a few years of quitting Pairing movement, steady nutrition, and healthy routines with quitting strengthens focus, mood, and long-term brain resilience
Internet addiction weakens the brain regions that control focus and decision-making, leaving you more vulnerable to stress, anxiety, poor sleep, and compulsive scrolling Exercise acts like a reset button, directly strengthening your brain's control systems, balancing stress hormones, and restoring healthy dopamine release so you feel more in charge of your choices Different exercises target different benefits: Footbike training boosts impulse control, swimming activates self-control centers, and basketball improves attention and quick decision-making while offering social rewards Mind–body practices such as mindfulness, yoga, tai chi, and DanceSport reduce cravings and help you replace digital rewards with healthier real-world engagement that supports both emotional balance and motivation Simple tools like riding out cravings without acting on them, savoring positive movement experiences, and linking activity to personal values train your brain to crave movement instead of screen time, making change both easier and more sustainable
LSD shows promise for anxiety treatment. A Phase 2b clinical trial found that 100 micrograms of MM120 (pharmaceutical LSD) reduced anxiety significantly with lasting effects Study results were encouraging. Researchers noted that 65% of participants experienced clinical response at optimal dosing, with 47.5% achieving remission that sustained through 12 weeks of follow-up Safety profile was manageable. Most side effects occurred during dosing sessions and resolved quickly, with visual changes and nausea being most common under medical supervision Note that LSD remains illegal. It is currently classified as Schedule I controlled substance, accessible only through approved clinical trials, with results of Phase 3 trials expected by 2026 In the meantime, natural anxiety alternatives exist. Breathing techniques like nasal breathing, horizontal breathing patterns, and controlled breathing practices can help manage anxiety symptoms without medication
Red meat, when eaten as part of a nutrient-rich, whole-food diet, supports brain function and gut health by supplying hard-to-get nutrients like vitamin B12, zinc, selenium, choline, and taurine that enhance mitochondrial energy and mental clarity People who included moderate amounts of red meat in a high-quality diet had higher brain-supporting nutrient levels and greater gut microbial diversity — key indicators of resilience and emotional well-being Processed meats such as bacon and sausage are a different story; even half a slice daily was linked to faster cognitive aging, higher dementia risk, and damage caused by nitrosamine formation from nitrites Choosing grass fed and finished red meat, cooking it gently, and pairing it with antioxidant-rich vegetables maximizes nutrients while minimizing oxidative stress and inflammation Collagen-rich cuts like oxtail, shank, or bone broth balance the amino acid profile of muscle meat, strengthening connective tissue, improving sleep, and reducing inflammation for lasting vitality
One in four children lives with a chronic physical illness, creating hidden stress that can be measured through hair cortisol concentration In one study about cortisol in children, three distinct patterns emerged — Consistently high (most problematic), consistently low (system burnout), and high-to-low (most hopeful, showing adaptation and resilience) Children under mental health care showed significantly elevated hair cortisol levels compared to healthy peers, indicating chronic stress across various psychiatric disorders regardless of irritability Dietary interventions focus on quality carbohydrates while avoiding ultraprocessed foods. Severely compromised digestive systems can benefit from temporary pure glucose before reintroducing fiber-rich foods Simple lifestyle changes effectively reduce cortisol. Examples include br
DMSO is an "umbrella remedy" capable of treating a wide range of challenging ailments due to its combination of therapeutic properties (e.g., reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and reviving dying cells) DMSO has a unique affinity for the eyes, resulting in it (often spontaneously) treating a wide range of visual disorders that frequently cannot be treated with conventional therapeutic options — including blindness DMSO's ability to heal the skin, moisten tissue, and relax muscles makes it excellent for reducing eye strain. It helps heal a variety of challenging conditions around the eyes, such as blepharitis, styes, psoriasis, burns, bags under the eyes, and eye twitches DMSO's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties allow it to treat a variety of infections and inflammatory conditions damaging the surface of the eyes (e.g., shingles or keratitis), in many cases facilitating a complete recovery of the eye DMSO's ability to heal tissue from injury also allows it to heal damaged eyes, which in many cases would otherwise require the eye to be removed. This article will review how DMSO is able to treat these conditions and how those healing properties allow it to treat many other challenging eye conditions, such as vision loss, macular degeneration, cataracts, and floaters
Vaginal or vulvar itching usually points to one of five causes: yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, contact irritation or allergy, sexually transmitted infection, or a skin condition To calm irritation fast, stop using fragranced products and harsh soaps, avoid douching, and switch to gentle, pH-balanced care. Choose breathable cotton fabrics and avoid tight, non-ventilated clothing that traps heat and moisture Focus on restoring the skin barrier and microbiome — use plain water for cleansing, natural, fragrance-free moisturizers for protection, and steady nutrition to support hormonal and metabolic balance. Relief happens faster once irritants are removed and the body's natural defenses are allowed to reset Seek urgent care if severe pain, sores, fever, foul-smelling discharge, occurs. Pregnant, diabetic, or immunocompromised women also need extra care See a clinician if symptoms last longer than three days or keep recurring, since persistent itching often signals an infection, hormone imbalance, or skin disorder that requires professional treatment
Fatty liver disease (FLD) develops when fat builds up in liver cells, straining an organ vital for energy, metabolism, and detoxification. It is now the leading chronic liver disease worldwide and affects four in 10 U.S. adults A new study in the Journal of Translational Gastroenterology found higher urinary arsenic levels were strongly associated with a greater risk of FLD in the U.S. population Arsenic disrupts liver health by driving oxidative stress, impairing mitochondria, activating fat-storing pathways, and interfering with glucose regulation, all of which accelerate fat buildup and insulin resistance Rice and drinking water are the main everyday sources of arsenic exposure, with contamination often exceeding health-based safety limits and posing risks even at "low" levels Reducing seed oils and alcohol, improving choline intake, and avoiding arsenic-contaminated foods and beverages are key steps to protect your liver and lower your toxic burden
Researchers created vitamin K analogues that cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively, which eventually turn into the bioactive form, menaquinone-4 (MK-4) Higher levels of MK-4 in brain tissue correlate with 17% to 20% lower dementia risk and reduced Alzheimer's-related brain damage Vitamin A's active form, retinoic acid, enhances synaptic plasticity and memory formation, with deficiencies linked to cognitive impairment and neuropsychiatric disorders Both vitamin K and retinoic acid signaling naturally decrease with aging, contributing to reduced neurogenesis and weakened memory circuits in older adults Consume K2-rich fermented foods, pair with healthy fats for absorption, combine with vitamin D3 and magnesium, and include vitamin A sources like leafy greens
More than one in five babies are now born by C-section, and the numbers are expected to reach nearly one-third of all births by 2030, despite many cases lacking clear medical necessity Researchers from Stanford University found that C-section mothers were far more likely to experience severe postpartum pain and disrupted sleep, with over two-thirds reporting discomfort that interfered with rest and recovery Nationwide data showed that women who delivered by C-section were 16% more likely to develop new sleep disorders within a year after birth, including insomnia, sleep deprivation, and sleep apnea C-sections carry higher risks of infection, hemorrhage, blood clots, and complications in future pregnancies, while babies born this way face increased chances of respiratory distress, allergies, and autism Many cesarean deliveries can be avoided with the right preparation. Choosing a provider who supports natural birth, staying physically active, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy weight all lowers your risk
Everyday exposure to pesticides, even from conventionally grown fruits and vegetables, disrupts sperm function and reduces fertility in otherwise healthy men Researchers found that higher levels of pesticide residues in urine were linked to slower, less motile sperm, showing that even non-occupational exposure harms reproductive health Organophosphate pesticides damage sperm by disrupting calcium balance, impairing mitochondrial energy production, and oxidizing cell membranes, which reduces both movement and viability Global data confirm these effects, revealing consistent patterns of reduced sperm motility, concentration, and normal shape across men from multiple countries, even when hormone levels remain normal Reducing exposure through organic foods, filtered water, regular exercise, and sauna use helps your body eliminate stored toxins, restore mitochondrial energy, and rebuild sperm health within a few months
Sleep is not just downtime but a built-in survival mechanism that protects your brain from toxic byproducts created when mitochondria leak electrons New research shows that the more electrons your cells fail to use, the greater the buildup of reactive oxygen species, which directly triggers your need for sleep Excessive fat burning under stress makes this problem worse by clogging energy pathways, depleting cofactors, and pushing your body into deep fatigue Serotonin levels rise when fatty acids flood your system, creating another pathway that drives drowsiness and heavy sleep pressure Supporting your mitochondria with healthy carbs, avoiding extreme cardio, and limiting harmful fats found in seed oils lowers electron leaks, reduces sleep demand, and helps you feel more energized
Whole kiwifruit, especially the green variety, is now recognized as one of the few foods with strong clinical evidence for relieving chronic constipation when eaten daily The most effective intake is two kiwifruits per day, maintained consistently for two to four weeks; this amount supports measurable improvement in stool softness and frequency without the side effects of stimulant laxatives Kiwi works through a unique combination of water-holding fiber and the enzyme actinidin, which together enhance digestion, hydration, and intestinal motility for smoother, more regular elimination People with infrequent or difficult bowel movements often find kiwi easier to stick with than prunes or psyllium because of its taste, texture, and natural sweetness, helping them stay consistent long enough to see results For best results, begin with a three-day at-home trial — one kiwi with breakfast and one with dinner — track your comfort and bowel pattern, and continue for four weeks if improvement begins within the first few days
Chronic low back pain is the leading cause of disability in older adults and often limits daily movement and independence Many treatments exist but do not always provide lasting relief and can have side effects or risks Acupuncture has been used for centuries to relieve pain and restore balance in the body It improves physical function, reduces anxiety, and enhances overall well-being when done consistently Working with a licensed practitioner and following a treatment plan ensures safe, effective results
Prescription drugs in the U.S. cost nearly three times more than in other developed countries, driving financial strain for millions of Americans and fueling demand for reform TrumpRx, a new government-run website set to launch in 2026, will let Americans buy discounted medications directly from drug manufacturers, bypassing insurers and pharmacy benefit managers Pfizer is the first major pharmaceutical partner, pledging to sell many drugs at up to 50% off list prices, match global "Most Favored Nation" pricing, and invest $70 billion in U.S. manufacturing The TrumpRx initiative stems from President Trump's May 2025 executive order reinstating "Most Favored Nation" pricing, which requires drugmakers to charge Americans no more than patients in other wealthy nations TrumpRx also includes plans to cut U.S. prescription spending by half, reinvest $500 billion into domestic production, and give financially struggling Americans direct access to low-cost or even free medications
Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are complex sugars that pass undigested to your baby's colon, where they feed beneficial bacteria, strengthen defenses, and support healthy brain and immune development A systematic review and meta-analysis in Frontiers in Pediatrics found that breast milk continues supplying substantial amounts of HMOs beyond 12 months, supporting gut health and brain development into toddlerhood Certain HMOs, such as 3-fucosyllactose, even increase over time. This shows that the balance of individual sugars shifts across lactation and continues shaping your child's development after infancy Breast milk also contains myo-inositol, a sugar shown to boost synapse formation and neuronal connectivity, highlighting how breast milk delivers brain-supportive compounds beyond traditional nutrients To keep your breast milk as nourishing as possible for your baby, prioritize whole foods, minimize unnecessary medications, and reduce toxin exposure. If breastfeeding isn't possible, screened donor milk is the next best option
A major clinical trial in The Lancet Psychiatry found that boosting dopamine with pramipexole improved symptoms in treatment-resistant depression. This challenges the long-dominant serotonin deficiency theory Supporting those findings, another study showed that agomelatine, a serotonin-blocking drug, consistently reduced anxiety and depression in multiple placebo-controlled trials Research shows polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats (PUFs and MUFs) directly trigger platelet aggregation and serotonin release, while saturated fats do not, linking modern diets to serotonin excess Studies confirm that combinations of unsaturated fats amplify serotonin release even at sub-threshold levels, making everyday dietary choices especially relevant to serotonin-driven health risks and mood instability Increasing GABA helps your body break down serotonin, restoring calm, better sleep, and mood stability without SSRI side effects, making it a safer alternative for addressing depression and anxiety
Compounds in the essential oil of the Vicks plant act on the same enzyme targeted by Type 2 diabetes drugs, helping your body maintain steadier blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity naturally The plant's essential oil contains more than 30 bioactive compounds that work together to support metabolic balance, immune defense, and cellular protection against oxidative stress Studies show that essential oil from Vicks plant effectively inhibits drug-resistant fungi responsible for stubborn skin, nail, and lung infections, offering a safe, natural alternative to synthetic antifungal medications Beyond personal health, Vicks plant supports ecological wellness by improving soil quality, repelling pests, and helping clean polluted environments through a process called phytoremediation Simple ways to use Vicks plant include diffusing its essential oil, applying diluted blends for skin support, and growing it at home for ongoing access to a natural remedy that promotes whole-body balance
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this ai nonsense is such a shame. used to love to listen but cannot bear the ai
I don't like the AI voices.
what happened to DR mercola?
these shorts stink. mindless and useless. if we can't know that a podcast us actually Dr. mercola speaking, I will unsubscribe altogether.
well, these folks seem nice, but I wouldn't bother listening to their drivel again.
synchronization leads to motivation, etc.
light exposure 100-1000x differential
So 7KetoDHEA is bad for you??
brilliant!!!
just about everything he says about nutrition is nonsense. I wasted my $ on his book. no, I won't eat soy and veg based proteins.
This guest didn’t say anything different than what you and others have already said. He was worthless. I would never buy his book. Disappointed.
Mr Kennedy's audio is terrible. I could barely understand him.
Thank you so much for this podcast! Seeds of Hope and Truth!We don't have the luxury of being hopeless. Thank you both!
LinoleicAcid-wise🥴
ONE OF THE TOP PODCASTS I LISTEN TO - TO KEEP ME TRULY INFORMED 🙌 ABOUT LIFE & HEALTH. THE SAYING GOES SOMETHINT LIKE " THE RICHEST MAN IN THE 🌎 WORLD HAS JUST ONE WISH." WHAT DO YOU THINK HE WANTED? DR. JOE IS SPOT ON WITH YOUR HEALTH-- LISTEN IN. GRAB A PEN AND PAPER TO TAKE NOTES AND EXTEND YOUR LONGEVITY... AS WHAT YOU LEARN IS BELOW THE SURFACE...
this is amazing
It's interesting to see this supplement, having used Megahydrate before and accidentally stopped my eczema after 40yrs of bother, and look fwd to more 'simple' medicine alternatives
Thanks for Considering individuals who travel alot or who live in an apartment... Most cant implement systems.. But a shower filter can be applied in most cases...
Really enjoyed your podcast on KetoFast Q&A, so informative. I've bought your book and looking forward to trying the KetoFast program. Thanks and keep up your amazing work!! 😀
20:13 #mushrooms can be used as a treatment for #neuropathy 22:15 #blueOcean