Made for Health

Could some of the biggest breakthroughs in medicine still be hiding in plain sight—overlooked by the very system meant to heal us?In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Aaron Hartman explores one of the most revealing themes from his book UnCurable: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds—the concept of medical blind spots. Drawing from history, research, and real-world clinical experience, Dr. Hartman examines how entrenched medical beliefs and slow adoption of new evidence can leave critical gaps in patient care. From Semmelweis and handwashing to modern examples like antibiotics, mitochondrial toxicity, and research bias, he sheds light on why humility and open-mindedness are essential to progress in medicine. This episode challenges both clinicians and patients to question assumptions, advocate for themselves, and embrace a more integrative, transparent approach to health. 👤 About the GuestDr. Aaron Hartman is a board-certified family physician and founder of Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine. His clinical and personal experiences inspired him to bridge conventional and functional medicine, helping patients with complex, chronic illnesses find answers when traditional care falls short. He is the author of UnCurable: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds, a powerful story of faith, transformation, and redefining what’s possible in healthcare. 🔑 Key Topics CoveredThe meaning of “blind spots” in modern medicine and why they persistHistorical lessons from Ignaz Semmelweis and the delayed recognition of smoking’s dangersMedical errors as a leading cause of death—and why they remain under-recognizedMitochondrial toxicity and gut disruption from common medicationsThe antibiotic-obesity connection and long-term metabolic effects of overprescriptionResearch bias: why up to 50% of published studies may later be proven falseEditorial gatekeeping and the slow adoption of new medical ideasThe importance of patient self-advocacy and presenting your own health history clearlyThe role of humility and collaboration in advancing integrative medicinePractical steps to identify and avoid medical blind spots in your own care 🧠 Takeaways & ReflectionsMedicine evolves slowly—critical thinking and open inquiry drive true progress.Not every “evidence-based” study tells the full story; experience and context matter.Patients can play an active role in shaping their health outcomes through advocacy and education.Recognizing blind spots in healthcare invites both professionals and patients to grow, learn, and heal together.🔗 Links & Resources📘 Book: UnCurable: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds👉 https://a.co/d/8sqjZNF🌐 Website: Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine📺 YouTube: @AaronHartmanMDMentioned in this episode:Get Dr. Hartman's New Book - UnCURABLEIf you’ve been let down by the system, you’re not alone — and you’re not powerless. Dr. Hartmans wrote UnCURABLE to help you take back control of your health and your hope. Visit the link below ⬇️ to get your copy and start your transformation today.Get the new book UnCURABLE

Could the toxins in your air, food, and water be quietly sabotaging your energy, hormones, and long-term health?In this episode, Dr. Aaron Hartman and Dr. Christian Jenski dive deep into the hidden world of environmental toxins and how they affect human health. From heavy metals and pesticides to plastics and micro-pollutants, they uncover how modern life exposes us to thousands of untested chemicals—and what we can do about it. They explain how toxins enter and disrupt the body, the organs responsible for detoxification, and why an individualized, science-based approach is essential. Listeners will learn practical ways to reduce exposure, support the liver and kidneys, and adopt safer habits for air, water, food, and household choices. This conversation is both eye-opening and empowering, offering a clear path toward detoxing smarter, not harder. 👤 About the GuestsDr. Aaron Hartman is a board-certified physician and founder of Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine. With years of experience in both conventional and integrative care, he helps patients uncover root causes behind complex conditions through nutrition, lifestyle, and regenerative medicine. Dr. Christian Jenski is an emergency medicine and integrative physician who brings a systems-based perspective to toxin exposure and detoxification. His expertise bridges conventional toxicology and functional medicine, helping patients restore balance through practical, evidence-based strategies. 🔑 Key Topics CoveredWhy more than 80,000 chemicals are in circulation—but fewer than 2,000 have been adequately tested for safetyHow toxins from air, water, food, and household products contribute to inflammation, endocrine disruption, and chronic illnessCommon toxic culprits: arsenic, lead, mercury, glyphosate, aluminum, and microplasticsHow phase 1 and phase 2 liver detoxification work, and why amino acids and B-vitamins are crucialThe role of the kidneys and hydration in toxin elimination and pH balanceThe surprising connection between sweating, gut health, and detox efficiencyWhy chronic stress and shallow breathing interfere with the body’s natural detox pathwaysPractical detox methods: infrared saunas, cold plunges, mineral support, and hydrationThe precautionary principle—why Europe’s approach to chemical regulation is safer than America’sHow to create a low-toxin home environment with simple, affordable steps 🧭 Actionable TipsFilter your water: Use certified filters or reverse osmosis systems and test your tap water at ewg.org/tapwater.Improve air quality: Use HEPA filters, houseplants, and proper ventilation—especially in kitchens and bathrooms.Choose safer cookware: Replace Teflon with stainless steel or cast iron, and store food in glass instead of plastic.Support your liver: Eat protein-rich meals with amino acids like glycine and taurine; include cruciferous vegetables and hydration.Sweat regularly: Sauna sessions or exercise at least 3 times per week to promote toxin elimination.Prioritize gut health: Ensure daily bowel movements and balanced microbiome support. 📚 Products and Resources MentionedEnvironmental Working Group (EWG) – Tap Water Database and Clean 15/Dirty Dozen ListsHarvard School of Public Health – Healthy Home GuideReverse...

What if your weight struggles aren’t about willpower at all—but signs of deeper inflammation, toxins, or trauma your body’s been carrying?In this insightful minisode, Dr. Aaron Hartman examines the issue of medical gaslighting in obesity care—when a patient’s symptoms are automatically dismissed as a result of their weight. He challenges the oversimplified view of obesity as a purely lifestyle-related condition and highlights how it is, in fact, a complex, multifactorial disease.The episode breaks down the different types of obesity—including inflammatory, metabolic, toxin-related, and trauma-induced forms—and underscores how each requires its own diagnostic approach and treatment strategy. Dr. Hartman emphasizes the importance of listening carefully to patients, identifying root causes, and addressing underlying physiological drivers rather than applying one-size-fits-all advice. 🔑 Key Topics CoveredWhat medical gaslighting looks like in obesity treatment and why it persistsThe four main types of obesity and how they differ in cause and treatmentWhy inflammation, toxins, and trauma are often overlooked in weight-related careThe role of hormones, metabolism, and the nervous system in obesityFunctional medicine’s approach to identifying root causes behind weight gainThe importance of compassionate listening and individualized care plansHow dismissing obesity as “just lifestyle” delays accurate diagnosis and healingFollow Dr. Aaron Hartman & Richmond Integrative & Functional MedicineWebsite: https://richmondfunctionalmedicine.com/YouTube: @AaronHartmanMDMentioned in this episode:Get Dr. Hartman's New Book - UnCURABLEIf you’ve been let down by the system, you’re not alone — and you’re not powerless. Dr. Hartmans wrote UnCURABLE to help you take back control of your health and your hope. Visit the link below ⬇️ to get your copy and start your transformation today.Get the new book UnCURABLE

What if one child’s impossible diagnosis became the spark that transformed a father—and a physician—forever?In this moving and transformational episode, Dr. Aaron Hartman shares the extraordinary story behind his book UnCurable: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds. What began as a devastating medical journey with his daughter, Anna, who was born with severe neurological challenges, became a story of faith, resilience, and transformation.Through navigating medical controversies, challenging conventional practices, and embracing integrative and functional approaches, Dr. Hartman reveals how one child’s journey changed the course of his life and career. This episode is both a heartfelt story of family and a compelling exploration of how personalized, integrative medicine can help even the most complex patients reclaim their health and hope. 👤 About the GuestDr. Aaron Hartman is a board-certified family physician and founder of Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine. Drawing on both conventional and holistic modalities, he specializes in complex, chronic conditions that often fall through the cracks of traditional healthcare. His personal journey as a father to a medically complex child fuels his passion for helping others reclaim their health and vitality. 🔑 Key Topics CoveredAnna’s early diagnosis and the challenges of navigating a fragmented healthcare systemHow questioning “standard of care” led to unexpected resistance from medical authoritiesThe importance of intuition and parental advocacy in caring for special-needs childrenLessons learned from medical controversies involving feeding tubes, surgeries, and growth chartsHow one family’s perseverance revealed the system’s siloed nature — and the need for integrative careThe evolution of Dr. Hartman’s practice into a refuge for complex, misunderstood patientsUsing integrative tools such as neuromuscular stimulation, nutritional medicine, and nutrigenomicsReal-life applications of light therapy, detoxification, and regenerative medicineThe emotional and spiritual lessons of hope, perseverance, and purpose through hardshipHow Anna’s journey continues to inspire Dr. Hartman’s mission to help others “defy the odds” 🧠 Takeaways & ReflectionsTrue healing often begins when you refuse to accept “there’s nothing more we can do.”Integrative and functional approaches bridge the gaps between medical silos.Advocacy, faith, and persistence can change not only one life — but the lives of many.Health is the foundation of all dreams: “A person who has their health has a thousand dreams; the one who does not has but one.”🔗 Links & Resources📘 Book: UnCurable: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds👉 https://a.co/d/8sqjZNF🌐 Website: Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine📺 YouTube: @AaronHartmanMDMentioned in this episode:Get Dr. Hartman's New Book - UnCURABLEIf you’ve been let down by the system, you’re not alone — and you’re not powerless. Dr. Hartmans wrote UnCURABLE to help you take back control of your health and your hope. Visit the link below ⬇️ to get your copy and start your transformation today.a...

Could your chronic fatigue or slow metabolism actually trace back to struggling mitochondria—the tiny engines powering every cell in your body?In this episode, Dr. Aaron Hartman and Dr. Christian Jenski uncover the pivotal role of mitochondria—the body’s energy powerhouses—in maintaining metabolic health, longevity, and resilience. They explain how modern stressors like medications, environmental toxins, nutrient deficiencies, and poor lifestyle choices impair mitochondrial function, fueling chronic disease and fatigue. The discussion bridges scientific depth with practical insights, revealing strategies to restore mitochondrial vitality through personalized nutrition, targeted supplementation, and detoxification. Listeners will walk away with clear, actionable steps to optimize cellular energy, enhance performance, and support long-term health.🔑 Key Topics CoveredHow common medications and environmental toxins damage mitochondrial functionThe mitochondria’s roles beyond energy — including immune modulation and inflammation controlThe influence of gut health and microbiome balance on mitochondrial performanceNutritional foundations for supporting mitochondria through whole foods and key nutrientsThe role of hormetic stressors like fasting, cold exposure, and exercise in building resilienceDetoxification strategies to minimize toxin load and oxidative stressTop supplements for mitochondrial support: CoQ10, carnitine, NAD precursors, magnesium, and B vitaminsClinical tools for testing mitochondrial efficiency and identifying dysfunctionThe use of IV nutrient therapy and tailored interventions in functional medicine📲 Follow Dr. Aaron Hartman & Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine💻 Website: https://richmondfunctionalmedicine.com/ 📺 YouTube: @AaronHartmanMDMentioned in this episode:Get Dr. Hartman's New Book - UnCURABLEIf you’ve been let down by the system, you’re not alone — and you’re not powerless. Dr. Hartmans wrote UnCURABLE to help you take back control of your health and your hope. Visit the link below ⬇️ to get your copy and start your transformation today.Get the new book UnCURABLE

Have you ever felt dismissed or unheard by your doctor—like your symptoms were “all in your head”?In this thought-provoking minisode, Dr. Aaron Hartman introduces the concept of medical gaslighting—a term describing when patients’ symptoms are dismissed, minimized, or misattributed by healthcare providers. Drawing from real cases and historical context, Dr. Hartman explores how this phenomenon persists today, particularly among women who are often labeled “anxious” or “overreacting” rather than heard. He explains why intuition matters, how technology like AI can empower patients to advocate for themselves, and why practitioners must return to the fundamentals of medicine: listening to the patient’s story. The episode is both a wake-up call and an invitation to reclaim agency in your healthcare journey.🔑 Key Points CoveredThe third leading cause of death in the U.S. stems from medical errors, misdiagnosis, and treatment complications.Hospitalization risks: a 10% chance of life-threatening infection during a 7–10-day stay.Definition of medical gaslighting—when patients’ concerns are dismissed because they don’t fit within conventional diagnostic frameworks.Common examples: unexplained pain, fatigue, brain fog, or gut issues labeled as “stress,” “IBS,” or “functional disorders.”The critical role of patient intuition—trusting your body when something feels off.Historical parallels: handwashing resistance in the 1800s, gender bias in heart-attack diagnosis, and outdated medical norms.How AI tools can help patients generate informed differential diagnoses and collaborate more effectively with their clinicians.The importance of listening and detailed history-taking—still the cornerstone of accurate diagnosis.A call for clinicians to adopt a more empathetic, patient-centered approach, especially toward women’s health concerns.Encouragement for patients to become advocates and co-investigators in their own care journey.Follow Dr. Aaron Hartman & Richmond Integrative & Functional MedicineWebsite: https://richmondfunctionalmedicine.com/YouTube: @AaronHartmanMD

Could your blood sugar, hormones, and energy issues all trace back to one hidden culprit—mitochondrial dysfunction?In this episode, Dr. Aaron Hartman sits down with Dr. Christian Jenski to explore the deeper roots of metabolic syndrome, with a focus on diabetes, PCOS, fatty liver disease, dyslipidemia, gout, and cognitive decline. Together, they discuss how mitochondrial dysfunction underlies many chronic metabolic conditions and why early, individualized testing is key to reversing disease progression.The conversation dives into advanced diagnostic strategies—from fasting insulin, leptin, and adiponectin levels to expanded cardiovascular and hormonal panels—and highlights how gut health, toxins, and inflammation influence metabolic dysfunction. Clinical insights and patient stories illustrate how comprehensive, root-cause medicine can restore balance and prevent chronic illness. 🔑 Key Topics CoveredDefining metabolic syndrome as a mitochondrial and cellular energy disorderAdvanced diagnostic markers for diabetes beyond A1C, including fasting insulin, leptin, and adiponectinThe role of stress hormones, thyroid, and sex hormones in metabolic and insulin resistanceThe link between gut dysbiosis, toxins, and postprandial inflammationClinical strategies for reversing diabetes and insulin resistance through lifestyle and targeted supplementsUnderstanding PCOS as both a metabolic and autoimmune-spectrum disorderThe connection between gut health, mold exposure, and hormone imbalance in women’s healthFunctional medicine approaches to gout, kidney stones, and oxalate metabolismLipid health and why advanced lipid testing offers more insight than cholesterol numbers aloneIntegrative management of fatty liver disease and cognitive decline (Type 3 Alzheimer’s) through detoxification, nutrient optimization, and mitochondrial supportThe shared root cause across these conditions: mitochondrial dysfunction📲 Follow Dr. Aaron Hartman & Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine💻 Website: https://richmondfunctionalmedicine.com/ 📺 YouTube: @AaronHartmanMD

Could unexplained symptoms like fatigue, flushing, or gut issues actually be signs of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome—the hidden link behind chronic inflammation?In the final episode of our five-part Mystery Illnesses series, Dr. Aaron Hartman explores Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) — a complex and often misunderstood condition. He unpacks the science behind mast cells, their role in immunity, and how dysregulation can lead to multi-system symptoms affecting the skin, gut, respiratory, and nervous systems. Dr. Hartman also examines the overlap between MCAS and other chronic conditions like Lyme disease, mold exposure, autoimmune disorders, and POTS, while addressing the challenges of testing and diagnosis.This episode provides clarity on how MCAS can manifest in seemingly unrelated symptoms — from flushing and fatigue to anaphylaxis and GI distress — and offers insight into how functional medicine can help identify and treat the root cause.Key Topics CoveredOverview of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) as a widespread but often misunderstood conditionCommon symptoms, including spontaneous anaphylaxis, food sensitivities, and gastrointestinal issuesWhy MCAS is often misdiagnosed due to its symptom overlap with other chronic illnessesResearch findings on the prevalence of MCAS in Germany and the United StatesDiagnostic challenges caused by short-lived lab markers and inconsistent testing practicesHow therapeutic trials can aid both management and diagnosisFunctional and systems-based approaches to treatment, including lifestyle and nutritional interventionsThe connection between MCAS, chronic inflammation, and immune system imbalanceOverlap with other “mystery illnesses” such as Lyme disease, mold toxicity, autoimmune disorders, and POTSEncouragement for listeners to share their own experiences with MCAS and histamine-related issuesFollow Dr. Aaron Hartman & Richmond Integrative & Functional MedicineWebsite: https://richmondfunctionalmedicine.com/YouTube: @AaronHartmanMD

Could metabolic syndrome be the hidden root behind everything from fatigue and weight gain to heart disease, brain fog, and even cancer?In this episode of Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman sits down with Dr. Christian Jenski to explore metabolic syndrome from a functional medicine perspective. Together, they unpack how disruptions in energy production and metabolic balance underlie a wide range of chronic illnesses — including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver, PCOS, gout, kidney stones, sleep apnea, cognitive decline, and even cancer.They discuss the shortcomings of standard diagnostic criteria, the need for early detection, and how functional medicine offers a more comprehensive, root-cause approach to healing. This episode also introduces the connection between immune system aging, inflammation, and mitochondrial health — setting the stage for future conversations on targeted therapies and metabolic optimization.Show HighlightsWhat defines metabolic syndrome and why conventional diagnostic standards often fall short.The role of mitochondrial dysfunction and energy production in chronic disease.How inflammation and immune system aging contribute to metabolic decline.Conditions linked to metabolic syndrome: obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver, gout, PCOS, kidney stones, and more.How lifestyle factors—diet, stress, exercise, and sleep—shape metabolic outcomes.Why “normal” lab values don’t always indicate optimal metabolic health.The connection between low testosterone, sleep apnea, and metabolic imbalance in men.Cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s as metabolic conditions (“Type 3 Diabetes”).How metabolic health influences mental health and mood regulation.Exploring the metabolic roots of cancer and the potential role of ketogenic diets.In This Episode, You Will LearnHow the immune system’s biological age influences metabolic and cellular health.The significance of visceral fat, triglycerides, and HDL in identifying metabolic risk.Ethnic variations in fat distribution and what they reveal about hidden metabolic dysfunction.Why fatty liver disease should never be dismissed as “common” or “incidental.”How uric acid and oxalate metabolism contribute to gout, kidney stones, and systemic inflammation.Why mental health symptoms like anxiety or depression can sometimes be metabolic in origin.The science behind insulin resistance in the brain and its link to cognitive decline.Functional medicine strategies for restoring balance through nutrition, detoxification, and lifestyle alignment.Resources & Links:Dr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.comYouTube – Aaron Hartman, MD: @AaronHartmanMD

Could your chronic fatigue, anxiety, or dizziness actually be signs of an underlying autonomic imbalance like POTS?In this episode, the host unpacks the complex world of dysautonomia and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)—conditions that arise when the autonomic nervous system (ANS) stops functioning properly. Affecting heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and even emotional regulation, dysautonomia can lead to a wide range of symptoms that are often misunderstood or misdiagnosed.The discussion explains the five key components of the autonomic nervous system, explores diagnostic methods, and reveals how these conditions often overlap with other chronic illnesses such as Lyme disease and autoimmune disorders. Treatment strategies—from nutrition and hydration to emerging therapies—are also reviewed, emphasizing a functional and individualized approach to care.Listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences with chronic fatigue, anxiety, or cardiovascular symptoms as possible signs of autonomic imbalance. The next episode in the series will focus on Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), continuing the deep dive into interconnected “mystery illnesses.”Show HighlightsWhat dysautonomia and POTS are, and how they affect the body’s regulatory systems.The five main components of the autonomic nervous system.Why dysautonomia is frequently misdiagnosed or mistaken for anxiety.The overlap between POTS, Lyme disease, autoimmune disorders, and chronic fatigue.Key diagnostic tools and functional testing options.Nutritional and lifestyle strategies to support autonomic balance.Emerging therapies that address the root causes of dysautonomia.How functional medicine views dysautonomia as a whole-body issue.A preview of next week’s topic: Mast Cell Activation Syndrome.In This Episode, You Will LearnHow the autonomic nervous system regulates vital functions and how dysregulation leads to widespread symptoms.The role of hydration, salt intake, and balanced nutrition in managing POTS.The impact of stress, infections, and inflammation on autonomic function.Steps to identify and address underlying causes through functional medicine.Why early recognition and personalized care can improve long-term outcomes.Resources & LinksRichmond Integrative & Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.comYouTube – Richmond Functional Medicine: @AaronHartmanMD

What if the key to healing chronic illness isn’t more medication—but finding doctors who truly listen and treat the root cause?In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of Made for Health, Richmond Integrative & Functional Medicine features Denise Tarkington, a patient who shares her remarkable healing journey through cancer, POTS, and chronic illness.Denise opens up about the frustrations of navigating conventional healthcare, the turning points that led her to explore functional medicine, and the powerful role of self-advocacy and persistence in her recovery. Through addressing root causes—including gut health, nutrition, and inflammation—she found a path toward renewed vitality and hope.Her story underscores the importance of trusting your instincts, seeking comprehensive care, and partnering with practitioners who listen. This conversation is a testament to the life-changing potential of integrating functional and conventional medicine for long-term healing.Show HighlightsDenise’s journey through cancer, POTS, and chronic illness.How traditional medical approaches sometimes miss root causes.The pivotal role of functional medicine in identifying underlying imbalances.Gut health, nutrition, and detoxification as cornerstones of recovery.The emotional and psychological challenges of chronic illness.Finding doctors who collaborate, listen, and personalize treatment.Why self-advocacy is essential in modern healthcare.The power of persistence and hope in overcoming long-term illness.Lessons learned from integrating functional and conventional medicine.In This Episode, You Will LearnHow addressing gut health and nutrient deficiencies can transform chronic illness outcomes.Why patients must take an active role in their healing journey.How functional medicine approaches differ from conventional treatment models.The importance of emotional resilience and supportive healthcare partnerships.Practical advice for those navigating complex or misunderstood conditions.Resources & LinksRichmond Integrative & Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.comYouTube – Richmond Functional Medicine: @AaronHartmanMD

Could your unexplained symptoms be signs of an autoimmune process your immune system started years before diagnosis?In this installment of the Mystery Illnesses series, Dr. Aaron Hartman explores the complex world of autoimmune diseases—a group of more than 120 conditions where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.He explains why autoimmune diseases are systemic, inflammatory, and often difficult to diagnose, and how early detection through predictive autoimmunity testing can change long-term outcomes. The discussion highlights key contributing factors such as genetic predisposition, chronic infections, leaky gut, environmental toxins, and triggering events that can set autoimmunity in motion.Dr. Hartman emphasizes the importance of comprehensive testing and personalized management—approaches that address root causes rather than just symptoms. This episode encourages listeners to deepen their understanding of autoimmunity, advocate for thorough evaluation, and take proactive steps toward healing.Show HighlightsThe systemic and inflammatory nature of autoimmune diseases.Why diagnosis can take years and is often missed in standard medicine.Introduction to predictive autoimmunity and early detection strategies.How genetic predisposition interacts with environmental and lifestyle factors.The role of chronic infections, gut permeability, and stress as triggers.The connection between autoimmunity, nutrition, and detoxification pathways.How functional medicine uses comprehensive testing for targeted care.The importance of personalized, long-term management and prevention.Preview of upcoming topics: anemia and mast cell activation syndrome.In This Episode, You Will LearnWhy autoimmune disease is a spectrum, not a single diagnosis.The difference between treating symptoms and addressing immune dysfunction.How to identify early warning signs through lab testing and symptom mapping.What “leaky gut” and chronic infections have to do with autoimmunity.Practical steps to reduce triggers and support immune balance.🌐 Resources & Links:Dr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.comYouTube – Aaron Hartman, MD: @AaronHartmanMD

What if fixing your sleep was the single most powerful way to restore your energy, balance your hormones, and protect your long-term health?In this insightful episode of Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman and Dr. Christian Jenski take a deep dive into one of the most overlooked foundations of well-being—sleep. They break down the science behind sleep initiation, maintenance, and efficiency, explaining how lifestyle choices, nutrient status, and underlying medical conditions can dramatically influence sleep quality. From sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome to the impact of caffeine, blue light, and stress, the conversation explores both pharmaceutical and natural interventions, emphasizing an integrative, personalized approach to achieving restorative rest.Whether you struggle to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up feeling unrested, this episode offers the practical science and actionable strategies you need to start reclaiming your nights—and your health.Show HighlightsThe importance of sleep initiation and maintaining proper sleep hygiene for overall wellness.How lifestyle habits like caffeine intake, eating late, and irregular schedules disrupt rest.The role of restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy, and idiopathic hypersomnia in chronic sleep issues.Understanding sleep efficiency and why it’s a key indicator of restorative rest.Functional medicine insights on how gut health, blood sugar balance, and nutrient deficiencies impact sleep.A review of pharmaceutical interventions including trazodone, gabapentin, and low-dose naltrexone—and when to use them safely.The risks of common sleep medications such as benzodiazepines and Ambien, especially in long-term use.Non-pharmaceutical tools for improving sleep—breathwork, herbal remedies, and stress reduction.Why personalized sleep plans outperform one-size-fits-all approaches.Practical, actionable tips for improving sleep quality naturally and sustainably.In This Episode, You Will LearnWhy sleep is a vital biomarker for long-term health and hormone balance.The connection between gut health, detox pathways, and restorative sleep.How to identify and address the root causes of poor sleep, not just symptoms.The critical role of circadian rhythm alignment for hormonal and metabolic health.Why children and chronically ill patients need special consideration with sleep aids.Real-world strategies to improve sleep onset, depth, and consistency.Resources & LinksDr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.comLinkedIn – Dr. Aaron Hartman: Connect HereYouTube – Richmond Functional Medicine: Watch Here

Could hidden mold in your home be the real cause behind brain fog, fatigue, and chronic illness that doctors can’t explain?In this mini-episode of Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman shines a light on the serious health impacts of water-damaged buildings, with a focus on Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) caused by mold exposure.He explains how CIRS is often overlooked and frequently overlaps with other complex conditions such as chronic Lyme disease, mast cell activation syndrome, autoimmune disorders, and dysautonomia. Because symptoms can span both physical and psychological domains—ranging from brain fog and fatigue to joint pain and mood changes—diagnosis is notoriously difficult.Dr. Hartman outlines key diagnostic considerations and stresses that the most important step in treatment is removing exposure. By raising awareness, this episode helps listeners recognize the environmental root causes of illness that often go undetected in standard medical practice.✅ Show Highlights:What Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is and how it developsThe role of mold and water-damaged buildings in triggering chronic illnessWhy CIRS overlaps with conditions like Lyme, mast cell activation, autoimmunity, and dysautonomiaThe broad spectrum of physical and psychological symptoms that complicate diagnosisEnvironmental awareness as a missing piece in chronic illness careWhy eliminating exposure is the most crucial step toward healing 💡 In This Episode, You Will Learn:How environmental factors like mold can trigger multi-system illnessWhy conventional testing often misses mold-related and CIRS diagnosesHow to recognize overlapping symptoms across chronic conditionsWhat steps are essential for identifying and removing toxic exposuresWhy awareness is the first step to recovery and advocacy 🌐 Resources & Links:Dr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.comYouTube – Aaron Hartman, MD: @AaronHartmanMD

What if the real secret to better hormones, metabolism, and long-term health isn’t a supplement or diet—but simply getting enough sleep?In this episode of Made for Health, Dr. Aaron Hartman sits down with Dr. Christian Jenski to explore one of the most overlooked foundations of health and longevity: sleep.Drawing from personal and clinical experiences, they discuss the far-reaching impacts of sleep deprivation and underdiagnosed sleep disorders—like sleep apnea—on everything from hormonal balance and metabolism to mood, immunity, and chronic disease risk. Together, they highlight why sleep is more than “rest”—it is a biological necessity intricately tied to nutrition, hormones, and long-term well-being.Listeners will gain insights into why consistent sleep routines and proper diagnosis matter, why sleep disorders are often missed across diverse populations, and what simple steps can begin shifting sleep quality today. The episode wraps with a powerful call to action: prioritize sleep as a non-negotiable pillar of health.✅ Show Highlights:Why sleep is often the “missing link” in functional and conventional medicinePersonal stories of sleep deprivation and its impact on health and practiceThe connection between sleep apnea, cardiovascular health, and chronic illnessHow poor sleep disrupts hormones, blood sugar regulation, and brain healthUnderdiagnosed sleep disorders across populations and why awareness mattersThe importance of consistent bedtime routines and circadian rhythm alignmentSneak peek: upcoming practical strategies to improve sleep quality💡 In This Episode, You Will Learn:Why sleep deprivation is a major driver of chronic diseaseThe hidden prevalence of sleep apnea and its health risksHow disrupted sleep undermines hormonal balance and mental healthWhy sleep must be considered alongside nutrition and stress in patient careActionable steps to start protecting and improving your sleep🌐 Resources & Links:Dr. Aaron Hartman – Richmond Functional Medicine: richmondfunctionalmedicine.comYouTube – Aaron Hartman, MD: @AaronHartmanMD