Revolution Health Radio

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser explores the growing phenomenon of orthosomnia, a condition driven by the obsessive pursuit of perfect sleep metrics. While devices like the Oura Ring, Whoop, and Apple Watch offer valuable insights, they can also increase anxiety and disrupt the very sleep they aim to improve. Chris breaks down the science behind sleep anxiety, including the role of cortisol and the hyperarousal model of insomnia. He explains why common beliefs—like needing exactly eight hours of sleep—can actually make insomnia worse, and how shifting your mindset is often the most powerful intervention. You’ll also learn why cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia is the gold standard treatment, how to know when sleep tracking has outlived its usefulness, and what actually works for improving sleep long-term. The post RHR: The Sleep Optimization Trap: Are You Tracking Yourself Into Worse Sleep? appeared first on Chris Kresser.

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris explores the science behind GLP-1 medications, including their powerful effects on appetite, weight loss, and cardiometabolic risk. He also uncovers the critical blind spots in the current conversation, including new research on long-term side effects, nutrient deficiencies, muscle loss, and the high rate of weight regain after discontinuation. You’ll learn why these drugs may be effective in the short term but fall short of addressing the root causes of obesity and metabolic dysfunction. Chris also explains who may benefit most from GLP-1 therapy and how to use these medications as part of a comprehensive strategy that includes nutrition, resistance training, and lifestyle interventions. The post RHR: The GLP-1 Blind Spot: What Ozempic Won’t Do for Your Metabolic Health appeared first on Chris Kresser.

For decades, public health guidelines have warned that reducing sodium intake is essential for preventing high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. But a closer look at the scientific evidence reveals a far more complex story. In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris explores the history behind the low-sodium movement and examines the research that shaped modern dietary guidelines. From early animal studies to large international analyses, the data suggests sodium intake follows a J-shaped curve, where both very low and very high intakes may increase cardiovascular risk. Chris explains the essential role sodium plays in the body, how severe sodium restriction can activate hormonal stress responses, and why salt sensitivity, potassium intake, kidney function, and lifestyle factors are critical in determining the right approach. The post RHR: Shaking Up the Salt Myth appeared first on Chris Kresser.

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser explores the viral trend of mouth taping and explains why the reality is more complex than the hype. While nasal breathing offers clear physiological advantages such as improved oxygen delivery, air filtration, and reduced airway resistance, the current research on mouth taping itself is limited and mixed. Chris breaks down findings from a recent systematic review of scientific literature, discusses potential safety concerns, and explains why mouth taping could worsen breathing for some individuals, particularly those with nasal obstruction or untreated obstructive sleep apnea. This episode emphasizes the importance of individualized assessment, proper diagnosis of sleep disorders, and addressing underlying airway issues before considering mouth taping. The post RHR: Mouth Taping: Beyond the Hype—What the Science Really Says appeared first on Chris Kresser.

Erythritol, a popular sweetener found in countless sugar-free and keto products, has long been considered a safe alternative to sugar. This episode of Revolution Health Radio examines emerging research that challenges that assumption. Chris explains how erythritol promotes blood clotting, impairs blood vessel function, increases oxidative stress, and interferes with the body’s ability to dissolve clots. You’ll learn why erythritol accumulates in the bloodstream, how regulatory loopholes allowed it to be widely adopted without long-term safety data, and why people with diabetes, obesity, and heart disease may be especially vulnerable. Chris also discusses similar concerns with xylitol, explores gut health side effects of sugar alcohols, and outlines safer alternatives like allulose, pure stevia extract, and monk fruit. The post RHR: Erythritol: The ‘Safe’ Sweetener That’s Anything But appeared first on Chris Kresser.

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser is joined by neuroscientist and physician Dr. Tommy Wood to explore how cognitive function can be preserved—and even enhanced—as we age. Dr. Wood challenges outdated ideas about inevitable cognitive decline and reframes dementia as a largely preventable, multifactorial condition. The conversation covers the historical roots of Alzheimer’s disease, why “one-size-fits-all” drug approaches have failed, and how lifestyle, environment, and brain use interact to shape long-term brain health. Dr. Wood introduces his 3S model of brain health, explains why retirement may be a mismatch for brain biology, and breaks down the roles of exercise, nutrition, sleep, and cognitively demanding activities in building lifelong cognitive resilience. The post RHR: Preserving Cognitive Function As You Age, with Tommy Wood appeared first on Chris Kresser.

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris breaks down a new large-scale study challenging the popular belief that plant-based diets promote longevity. The findings reveal that vegetarians—especially vegans—were significantly less likely to reach age 100 compared to omnivores. Chris explores the biological reasons behind these findings, emphasizing the importance of high-quality protein and nutrient bioavailability, as well as why certain nutrients may be harder to obtain from plant-only diets. He also discusses the powerful nutritional synergy that occurs when plant and animal foods are consumed together, arguing against rigid dietary dogma and advocating for a balanced, omnivorous approach to support healthy aging and longevity. The post RHR: New Study Challenges the Plant-Based Longevity Myth appeared first on Chris Kresser.

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris sits down with gastroenterologist and microbiome researcher Dr. Zain Kassam to explore the rapidly evolving science of the microbiome and its profound impact on sleep, circadian rhythm, cognitive performance, stress resilience, immune balance, and longevity. From groundbreaking research on microbiome diversity and sleep quality to emerging innovations like cobiotics, Dr. Kassam explains how our microbial partners regulate core biological systems far beyond the gut. They discuss the connection between the gut and the brain, eyes, skin, and even ears—along with practical strategies for supporting microbial health in a modern world that constantly disrupts it. The post RHR: Beyond the Gut: The Microbiome’s Role in Sleep, Energy, and Longevity, with Dr. Zain Kassam appeared first on Chris Kresser.

Depression and anxiety are often treated as chemical imbalances in the brain—but what if the real problem starts in the gut? In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, we dive deep into the gut–brain connection and the growing body of research linking gut inflammation, microbiome imbalance, and mood disorders. You’ll learn how inflammatory cytokines contribute to depression, why butyrate is emerging as a powerful antidepressant compound, and how specific probiotic strains can improve mental health outcomes. Chris also shares practical, evidence-based strategies—including diet, supplementation, and functional testing—to address root causes and support lasting emotional well-being. The post RHR: The Gut-Brain Connection: How Your Microbiome Affects Your Mental Health appeared first on Chris Kresser.

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser explains why vitamin D supplementation should never be one-size-fits-all. Drawing on new research—including a groundbreaking study on magnesium’s regulatory role—Chris explores how genetics, ethnicity, body weight, age, health status, sun exposure, and nutrient cofactors all shape an individual’s vitamin D needs. He outlines optimal testing strategies, safe and effective target ranges, and the critical roles of magnesium, vitamin K2, and vitamin A in vitamin D metabolism. The episode reframes vitamin D optimization as a personalized, systems-based approach that prioritizes balance, testing, and real-world physiology over generic dosing guidelines. The post RHR: Vitamin D: Why a Personalized Approach Is Best appeared first on Chris Kresser.

Cold plunges and ice baths dominate social media, but do they really deliver the best metabolic benefits? In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser challenges the “colder is better” narrative and explores what the science actually shows about cold exposure. Drawing on clinical research, he explains how brown adipose tissue works, why sustained mild cold exposure activates it more effectively than brief extreme cold, and how this can improve insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and overall metabolic health. The post RHR: Cold Exposure: Why Sustained Beats Extreme appeared first on Chris Kresser.

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris challenges the conventional focus on sleep duration and makes the case that sleep timing and circadian alignment matter just as much—if not more—than total hours slept. Drawing on new research, he explains how circadian disruption underlies poor sleep quality, chronic fatigue, and a wide range of mental health conditions, even in people who appear to be doing everything “right.” He explains why light exposure, sleep-wake consistency, and meal timing are the primary drivers of restorative sleep, why adolescents are uniquely vulnerable to sleep-related mental health risks, and shares practical strategies to improve sleep naturally and when supplements may be helpful. The post RHR: Why Your Sleep Schedule Matters As Much As Duration appeared first on Chris Kresser.

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris examines research confirming that menopause-related brain fog is real, measurable, and reversible. He explains how gray and white matter changes, blood-flow disruption, inflammation, and declining estrogen impact cognitive function during perimenopause and menopause. He also highlights the critical role of the gut microbiome in regulating estrogen metabolism and influencing brain health, and provides listeners with a comprehensive, root-cause approach to improving memory, focus, and clarity through diet, exercise, stress management, sleep, targeted nutrients, and gut-supportive strategies. The post RHR: Menopause Brain Fog—What’s Really Happening (and How To Fix It) appeared first on Chris Kresser.

Seed oils have become one of the most controversial topics in nutrition, especially after a 2024 University of South Florida study linked high omega-6 levels with inflammation in colon tumors. In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris takes a deep, evidence-based look at what the study actually means — and what it doesn’t. You’ll learn the crucial difference between naturally occurring omega-6 fats in whole foods like nuts, chicken, and avocados and oxidized omega-6 fats found in ultra-processed foods and industrial seed oils. He explains why awareness of the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio and the issues of the modern Western diet are far more important than demonizing individual oils and offers practical advice on which cooking oils to use, which to limit, how to improve omega-3 intake, and how to adopt a balanced approach to dietary fats without fear or obsession. The post RHR: Seed Oils and Colon Cancer – What the New Research Really Shows appeared first on Chris Kresser.

In this episode, Chris explains why obsession with anti-aging hacks may actually undermine our long-term health. He examines the common longevity traps people fall into, which foundational habits truly extend lifespan and health span, and outlines a simple framework for prioritizing what really works. If you’re overwhelmed by conflicting longevity advice, this episode brings clarity, realism, and a grounded path forward. The post RHR: The Longevity Trap: Why Chasing Anti-Aging May Be Aging You appeared first on Chris Kresser.

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris welcomes psychiatrist Dr. Matt Bernstein to explore the emerging field of metabolic psychiatry, the science linking brain energy metabolism to mental health. They discuss how conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and anxiety often share a root cause in impaired brain energy production, and how ketogenic therapy can restore balance and improve outcomes where traditional treatments fall short. Chris and Dr. Bernstein also unpack the latest research, the mechanisms behind ketones’ impact on the brain, and practical considerations for adults, teens, and families exploring this approach. The post RHR: The Link Between Metabolic Health and Mental Well-Being, with Dr. Matt Bernstein appeared first on Chris Kresser.

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris explores natural solutions for one of today’s most pressing challenges: chronic stress, anxiety, and poor sleep. He shares his top five nutrients for restoring calm and focus (saffron, L-theanine, lemon balm, holy basil, and ashwagandha), revealing how each supports the brain and body’s ability to relax, recharge, and build resilience. Drawing from both scientific research and clinical experience, Chris explains how these compounds balance neurotransmitters, reduce cortisol, and improve mood and sleep quality without sedation or dependence. Listeners will learn practical strategies for combining these nutrients safely and effectively to achieve steady energy, emotional balance, and deep, restorative rest. This episode offers a roadmap to move from wired and tired to calm and clear, using evidence-based tools rooted in both modern science and ancient wisdom. The post RHR: From Wired & Tired to Calm & Clear: My Top Nutrients for Mood, Focus, and Sleep appeared f

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris welcomes board-certified periodontist Dr. William Levine to discuss the overlooked role of gum health in systemic disease. They unpack how oral bacteria and chronic inflammation contribute to conditions like heart disease, dementia, autoimmune disorders, and pregnancy complications, and why periodontal health is as critical as diet and lifestyle in preventing chronic illness. Dr. Levine shares how to recognize early signs of gum disease, the latest approaches to treatment and prevention, and the importance of personalized care. The discussion highlights emerging technologies including laser therapy, PRP, photobiomodulation, and PEMF, offering a glimpse into the future of dentistry and frequency medicine. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of how maintaining oral health supports whole-body wellness and what promising innovations lie ahead. The post RHR: The Science Behind Oral Inflammation, with Dr. William Levine appeared first on Chris Kress

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, we dive deep into the topic of beauty from within, exploring why radiant skin, hair, and nails truly start from the inside. Chris discusses how internal factors such as gut function, nutrient status, inflammation, blood sugar regulation, hormonal balance, and stress management are foundational to external beauty. He explains the science behind the gut-brain-skin axis, the role of inflammation and leaky gut in skin health, and how stress impacts our appearance. He also highlights six key nutrients that can significantly enhance skin hydration, elasticity, and overall appearance, and shares practical insights into incorporating these science-backed nutrients into your diet or supplementation routine, empowering you to support your natural beauty from the inside out. The post RHR: Beauty From Within – Why Radiant Skin, Hair, and Nails Start Inside appeared first on Chris Kresser.

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser welcomes environmental wellness expert Michael Rubino for an in-depth conversation on the hidden health risks of indoor air pollution. They delve into why mold-related illness is more common than most people realize, how traditional mold testing methods often fail, and why household dust holds the key to understanding environmental exposure. Michael explains the concept of “clean breathing,” the impact of modern home construction on air quality, and how to assess your indoor environment using practical DIY tools. The discussion also covers overlooked threats like formaldehyde, VOCs, radon, and microplastics, as well as actionable strategies for remediation and improving ventilation. Finally, Michael offers essential advice for vetting professionals, avoiding costly missteps, and creating a healthier home environment for long-term well-being. The post RHR: Mold, Indoor Air Quality, and Clean Breathing, with Michael Rubino appeared first on Chris Kresser