Proven Health Alternatives

Dr. Robert Silverman
  • 4.9 (11)
  • ALTERNATIVE HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Proven Health Alternatives—a webcast revealing science-based alternatives to today's healthcare practices. I'm your host, Dr. Rob Silverman, a chiropractic doctor, clinical nutritionist, functional medicine practitioner, international speaker, and author of "Immune Reboot: Your Guide to Maximizing Immunity, Restoring Gut Health, and Optimizing Vitality" and "Inside-Out Health: A Revolutionary Approach to Your Body." Join me as I converse with leading health, fitness, supplements, nutrition, functional medicine, and more professionals. Together, we explore cutting-edge approaches to proven health alternatives.

  1. Dementia Isn't Inevitable: How Lifestyle and the Nervous System Protect the Brain

    1H AGO

    Dementia Isn't Inevitable: How Lifestyle and the Nervous System Protect the Brain

    Alzheimer's and dementia are often framed as genetic or unavoidable outcomes of aging, but research and clinical experience tell a more hopeful story. In this conversation, Dr. Clint Steele explains why brain decline is not just about genetics or biomarkers, but about how well the brain and nervous system adapt to stress over time. Dr. Steele breaks down how lifestyle factors like movement, neurological stimulation, inflammation, sleep, and stress regulation directly influence brain health. He explains why supporting the nervous system, the body's master controller, plays a critical role in maintaining brain connectivity, resilience, and long-term cognitive function. This episode focuses on proactive, preventative care and practical actions people can take now to protect their brain, improve adaptability, and shift from fear of decline to confidence in longevity. Key takeaways: Dementia is not an inevitable part of aging; lifestyle and environment play significant roles in brain health. Genetics alone do not dictate one's likelihood of developing dementia; proactive lifestyle changes can alter outcomes. Stress management, dietary habits, and physical exercise are crucial components for maintaining cognitive function. Innovative treatments and supplements—like methylated B vitamins, omega-3s, and curcumin—can contribute significantly to brain health. Early intervention is key; regular testing for cognitive decline markers can help in timely preventive measures.   More About Dr. Clint Steele: Dr. Clint Steele is a doctor, author, speaker and dementia & brain health specialist with over 30 years of experience helping people improve brain function by addressing the nervous system at the root.   He is an Amazon best-selling author and educator with over 2.3 million followers across social media platforms, where he teaches lifestyle-based strategies to support memory, reduce stress, and promote long-term cognitive health. Dr. Steele is the founder of The Better Brain Company and is dedicated to shifting the conversation from fear of cognitive decline to confidence in prevention and action. Website Instagram Products and Programs Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube 🚀For those looking to go deeper into the nutritional strategies I often discuss, supporting the body with targeted nutrients can play an important role in immune resilience, metabolic health, and long-term vitality. I've partnered with Big Bold Health, a company focused on developing research-driven supplements designed to support those systems. You can learn more here: https://bigboldhealth.com/pages/robertsilverman and save 15% sitewide with code SILVERMAN15.

    43 min
  2. Beyond Biohacking: The Real Science of Longevity

    MAR 13

    Beyond Biohacking: The Real Science of Longevity

    What does real longevity actually look like? Is it the latest biohacking trend, or something much more foundational? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Loren Marks, chiropractor and longevity-focused clinician, to discuss why the conversation around healthspan is rapidly becoming one of the most important topics in modern healthcare. Together, we explore how true longevity is less about chasing health fads and more about understanding and optimizing the body's fundamental physiological processes. Dr. Marks breaks down the difference between biohacking and sustainable longevity, emphasizing the importance of metabolic health, inflammation control, and personalized assessments. We discuss key biomarkers such as insulin and hsCRP, the role of muscle mass in aging well, and why balance training is one of the most overlooked strategies for preventing falls and maintaining independence later in life. If longevity is the healthcare conversation of the next decade, this episode offers a clear roadmap for practitioners and patients alike. From foundational metabolic markers to functional movement and personalized care, we explore how integrating modern science with clinical fundamentals can help people not just live longer, but live better.   Key takeaways: Longevity is rooted in physiological optimization rather than quick-fix biohacking techniques. Metabolic markers such as insulin, APOB, and HSCRP play crucial roles in determining health risks and should be part of regular health assessments. Muscle mass is pivotal for glucose disposal, fall prevention, and overall health, making strength training essential for longevity. Balance training can significantly reduce fall risks, a leading cause of serious injuries among older adults. More About Dr. Loren Marks: Dr. Loren Marks is a Manhattan-based Doctor of Chiropractic and board-certified Clinical Nutritionist with more than four decades of clinical experience guiding patients toward precision health, structural integrity, and long-term vitality. At his Midtown practice, Dr. Marks delivers executive-level health optimization through comprehensive metabolic analysis, advanced cardiovascular risk stratification, microbiome and gastrointestinal evaluation, hormone mapping, and precision structural care. His work integrates chiropractic medicine, functional nutrition, advanced blood chemistry interpretation, and non-invasive performance technologies into a cohesive, data-driven model of care. With a deep foundation in spinal biomechanics and neurophysiology, Dr. Marks brings extensive expertise in structural rehabilitation, chronic pain syndromes, neurologic function, and the relationship between biomechanical alignment and systemic health. His clinical approach recognizes that metabolic resilience, neurologic integrity, and structural stability are inseparable components of long-term performance and longevity. Dr. Marks is the author of a chapter in Arachnoiditis: The Evidence Revealed, edited by Antonio Aldrete, MD, and a contributing chapter author in Integrative Gastroenterology, edited by Gerard Mullin, MD, as part of the Andrew Weil integrative medicine series. His published work reflects a longstanding commitment to bridging structural medicine, gastrointestinal health, and systems-based clinical strategy. Known for synthesizing complex laboratory and clinical data into clear, strategic action plans, Dr. Marks focuses on identifying subtle patterns of dysfunction years before they manifest as overt disease. His philosophy is grounded in a core principle: sustainable longevity and peak performance are achieved not through isolated interventions, but through system-wide alignment — metabolic, neurologic, structural, and behavioral. Dr. Marks provides discreet, highly personalized care for individuals committed to measurable, evidence-informed health optimization. Licensed Doctor of Chiropractic in New York State. Board-Certified in Clinical Nutrition (DACBN). Website Instagram Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube 🚀For those looking to go deeper into the nutritional strategies I often discuss, supporting the body with targeted nutrients can play an important role in immune resilience, metabolic health, and long-term vitality. I've partnered with Big Bold Health, a company focused on developing research-driven supplements designed to support those systems. You can learn more here: https://bigboldhealth.com/pages/robertsilverman and save 15% sitewide with code SILVERMAN15.

    57 min
  3. Do Natural Medicines for Mental Health Really Work?

    MAR 7

    Do Natural Medicines for Mental Health Really Work?

    In our latest episode, we ask a different question about mental health: What if anxiety and depression are signals, not just diagnoses? I'm joined by Dr. Peter Bongiorno, naturopathic doctor and functional medicine expert specializing in integrative mental health, to explore how inflammation, nutrient status, mitochondrial function, and gut health shape mood and behavior. We move beyond symptom suppression and into root cause investigation. Why are so many patients still struggling despite conventional care? What role do inflammation and blood-brain barrier integrity play? How does the gut-brain axis influence anxiety and depression? And why is sleep non-negotiable for mitochondrial repair and emotional resilience? Dr. Bongiorno breaks down the biological drivers of mental health, from nutrient deficiencies and hormonal shifts to neuroinflammation and vagal tone. We also discuss why lifestyle interventions often need to come before supplementation, and how functional psychology integrates physiology with emotional well-being. If you want a deeper understanding of how to approach mental health through the lens of systems biology, this conversation delivers clarity, practicality, and a roadmap forward.   Key takeaways: Natural Approaches to Mental Health: Discussing the growing traction of natural therapies, focusing on lifestyle, nutrition, and addressing biological imbalances. Nutrient Deficiencies and Mental Health: Exploring key nutrients such as vitamin D, B12, and magnesium, and their vital roles in neurotransmitter production and mood regulation. Importance of the Gut-Brain Axis: Highlighting how gut health impacts mental wellness through mechanisms involving microbiota and vagus nerve communication. Role of Sleep and Exercise: Addressing the essential contributions of restful sleep and physical activity to overall mental health, emphasizing the balance of mitochondrial function. Herbal and Supplementary Support: Assessing the effectiveness of supplements like St. John's Wort and saffron as supportive measures in managing depressive symptoms.   More About Dr. Peter Bongiorno:   Dr. Peter Bongiorno is on a mission to revolutionize psychiatric care by integrating effective holistic healing into mental health practice. Since 2004, his thriving practices in New York have transformed countless lives. A graduate of Bastyr University in Seattle, where he earned his naturopathic doctor degree in 2003 and served as class speaker, Dr. Bongiorno's journey began by researching as a pre-doctoral fellow at the National Institutes of Mental Health and Yale University's Department of Pharmacology. In 2008, Dr. Bongiorno authored the groundbreaking textbook Healing Depression published by CCNM Press – the first textbook on integrative medicine for depression, marking a significant milestone in the field. Since then, he has produced numerous influential papers, textbook chapters, and books, passionately educating the medical community on the most effective natural methods to heal mood disorders. His latest essential text, Holistic Solutions for Anxiety and Depression, is published by Norton. For the public, his books are Put Anxiety Behind You and How Come They're Happy and I'm Not?, which offer actionable insights into Dr. Bongiorno's effective methods for naturally overcoming anxiety and depression. His books have been translated into multiple languages, including Chinese and Italian. You can discover the transformative work of Dr. Bongiorno and join the movement toward natural mental health solutions at www.drpeterbongiorno.com. Website Instagram Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

    40 min
  4. Movement as a Path to Self-Connection

    FEB 28

    Movement as a Path to Self-Connection

    What if autoimmune disease is not an overactive immune system, but a loss of immune tolerance? In our latest episode, I sit down with Dr. Russell Jaffe, MD, PhD, CCN, a pioneer in integrative and functional medicine, to unpack the difference between suppressing symptoms and restoring true immune balance. We explore the concept of immune competence, why inflammation often reflects a repair deficit, and how the body's innate intelligence can be supported rather than silenced. Dr. Jaffe challenges the conventional "anti" model of medicine and instead emphasizes evoking repair through bioavailable nutrition and targeted lifestyle strategies. We discuss autoimmune disease, immune tolerance, advanced biomarkers, and the critical role of nutrients like vitamin C in cellular repair and resilience. This conversation reframes longevity as healthspan and vitality, reminding us that sustainable healing begins by restoring balance at the systems level. If you are ready to rethink inflammation, immunity, and what true healing looks like, this episode is for you.   Key takeaways: Transformation through Adversity: Tyler Bramlett's career shifted due to personal injuries, leading him to develop a fitness philosophy focused on movement freedom and longevity rather than aesthetics. Critique of Traditional Fitness Culture: Tyler discusses the toxic narratives in the fitness industry that drive people towards self-loathing and unhealthy pursuits of physical perfection. Personalized Approach to Fitness: Through We Shape, Tyler emphasizes the importance of customized workouts that honor individual needs, capabilities, and health conditions. Movement Snacks for Health: Tyler suggests incorporating small, mindful movement practices throughout the day to enhance mobility and health without the rigidity of structured workouts. Mindset and Community: A supportive community and a positive mindset are crucial for real health transformations, shifting the focus from external validation to internal well-being.   More About Tyler Bramlett:   Tyler Bramlett is a movement coach, father, and Co-founder of WeShape whose path was reshaped by a cycling accident that shattered his femur and permanently damaged his knee. Unable to return to traditional, appearance-driven fitness routines, he began a 15-year healing journey that included multiple surgeries and deep study in functional anatomy, biomechanics, and rehabilitation. Through working with top physical therapists and coaches, he discovered that real transformation comes from moving smarter, not pushing harder. This led him to reject shame-based fitness culture and create an approach centered on alignment, mindful movement, and what he calls "movement freedom" — the ability to live without feeling trapped in a body that hurts. After building and later stepping away from a multi-million-dollar fitness company that ranked on the Inc. 500 for three consecutive years, Tyler and his wife founded WeShape to challenge the belief that worth is tied to appearance. His work now sits at the intersection of movement, psychology, and culture, helping primarily women 50+ reduce pain, restore confidence, and build healthier relationships with their bodies. With more than 800 million views and 6.3 million followers across platforms, Tyler blends personal story, practical expertise, and emotional depth. His message resonates widely, making him a compelling voice in conversations around wellness, mindset, resilience, and the future of fitness.   Website Instagram Facebook YouTube Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

    42 min
  5. Why Foot and Ankle Strength Matters

    FEB 14

    Why Foot and Ankle Strength Matters

    What if one of the biggest predictors of falls, balance issues, and even athletic decline wasn't the hips, core, or knees, but the toes? And what if strengthening them could dramatically change outcomes as we age? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Tom Michaud, a chiropractor, researcher, and internationally recognized expert in foot biomechanics, to explore how weak toes and poor foot function significantly increase fall risk in older adults and limit performance in master athletes. We discuss why foot and ankle health is often overlooked and how it serves as the foundation for balance, speed, and long-term vitality. Dr. Michaud breaks down findings from pivotal studies, including work by researchers like Karen Mickle and Max Piquet, highlighting the role of intrinsic foot muscles such as the flexor hallucis longus and peroneus longus in stability and dynamic movement. We also cover simple at-home tests to assess fall risk and practical exercises that actually improve foot strength. This episode is essential listening for clinicians, athletes, and anyone who wants to stay mobile, resilient, and active as they age.   Key takeaways: Weak toes are a primary predictor of falls in older adults, leading to serious injuries and complications. Enhancing toe strength through targeted exercises can significantly reduce fall risk while boosting athletic performance. Not all traditional foot exercises are effective - exercising the foot muscles in a lengthened position yields better strength gains. Proper assessment of foot architecture and the application of custom strengthening exercises can prevent injuries and improve dynamic performance. Diagnostic tests like the anterior fall envelope and paper grip tests offer valuable insights into an individual's fall risk and foot strength.   More About Dr. Tom Michaud:   In the early nineties, Williams and Wilkins published Dr. Michaud's first textbook, Foot Orthoses and Other Forms of Conservative Foot Care, which was eventually translated into four languages. His next book, Human Locomotion: The Conservative Management of Gait-Related Disorders, which was published in 2012, is used in physical therapy, chiropractic, pedorthic, and podiatry schools around the world. In addition to technical books, Tom also published a book for recreational runners: Injury-Free Running: How to Build Strength, Improve Form, and Treat/Prevent Injuries, now in its second edition. During his 40 years of clinical practice, Dr. Michaud designed and patented numerous diagnostic tools and exercise products to help with the evaluation and treatment of a wide range of sports injuries. Since his recent retirement from clinical practice, Tom is devoting his time to researching, writing, and designing new products in order to develop evidence-based evaluation and treatment protocols that can assist in not just the prevention of sports injuries, but also in ways to stay fit as we age.   Website Instagram Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

    58 min
  6. Labs in Precision Medicine: An N-of-1 Framework

    FEB 7

    Labs in Precision Medicine: An N-of-1 Framework

    Why do so many people feel unwell even when their labs are labeled "normal"? Are we using laboratory testing as a guide, or are we letting numbers drive decisions without enough context? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Ralph Esposito, a board-certified nutritionist, functional medicine practitioner, and expert in metabolic health, to unpack one of the most misunderstood tools in modern medicine: laboratory testing. As Dr. Esposito explains, labs are a cornerstone of healthcare, but they are also among the most frequently misused. We explore how nutrition and metabolic labs should be evaluated responsibly by prioritizing clinical context, pre-test probability, biological variability, and individual response rather than relying on isolated or outdated reference ranges. Our conversation also dives into common misunderstandings around testosterone replacement therapy, cardiovascular risk, and why population-based "normal" values often miss what is happening in the individual. Dr. Esposito introduces an N of 1 framework, reframing labs not as definitive answers but as decision-support tools meant to guide truly personalized care. If you want a clearer, more thoughtful way to interpret labs and assess real health risk, this episode will change how you look at your numbers.   Key takeaways: Lab Interpretation Caution: Misinterpretation of lab results can lead to incorrect health assessments; patient history and context are crucial in lab result analysis. Individualized Guidelines: Dr. Esposito advocates for a shift from population-based to personalized markers of health for more accurate patient care. Role of Testosterone in Health: While TRT can be beneficial, it should be considered carefully, weighing potential health benefits against side effects like elevated hematocrit and hemoglobin levels. Lifestyle Modifications: Recognize the impact of lifestyle changes in conjunction with medical treatments for long-term health improvements. Precision Medicine Vision: The future of healthcare lies in the integration of AI and individualized patient data to tailor precise medical interventions effectively.   More About Dr. Ralph Esposito:   Dr. Ralph Esposito is a licensed naturopathic physician and acupuncturist specializing in precision preventive and integrative medicine. He serves as Chief Science Officer at AG1 where he oversees scientific strategy and clinical research and is an adjunct professor at New York University. His work focuses on evidence-based N-of-1 approaches to risk reduction metabolic health and longevity translating complex science into clinically meaningful outcomes.   Website Instagram Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

    53 min
  7. A Functional Medicine Approach to Reversing Hashimoto's

    JAN 31

    A Functional Medicine Approach to Reversing Hashimoto's

    Why are thyroid disorders becoming so common? Why do so many people feel exhausted, foggy, and inflamed even when their labs are labeled "normal"? And is Hashimoto's truly a lifelong condition, or are we missing what actually drives it? In our latest podcast episode, I sit down with Dr. Anshul Gupta, a board-certified physician and functional medicine expert, to unpack what is really happening behind thyroid dysfunction and autoimmune thyroid disease. We break down hypothyroidism versus hyperthyroidism, why Hashimoto's is the most common cause, and which thyroid tests actually matter, including TSH, free T3, free T4, and thyroid antibodies. From there, the conversation widens. We explore the roles of gut health, mitochondrial dysfunction, toxins, stress, and viral triggers like Epstein-Barr and COVID, and why treating the thyroid alone often falls short. Dr. Gupta shares insights from his clinical experience and transition into functional medicine, offering a more complete framework for understanding and supporting thyroid health.   Key takeaways: Comprehensive Thyroid Testing: Beyond TSH, a complete thyroid panel including free T3, free T4, and specific antibodies is crucial for an accurate thyroid health assessment. Role of Mitochondria: The health of mitochondria is vital for thyroid function, affecting energy metabolism critical for managing thyroid disorders. Impact of Stress: Chronic stress is a significant factor contributing to thyroid dysfunction, emphasizing the need for daily stress management techniques. Functional Medicine Approach: Dr. Gupta's use of functional medicine emphasizes treating the root causes of thyroid problems, especially targeting lifestyle and dietary changes. Environmental and Dietary Toxins: A deeper understanding of how exposure to toxins and dietary inadequacies affect thyroid health and overall metabolic function.   More About Dr. Anshul Gupta:   Dr. Anshul Gupta is a best-selling author, speaker, researcher, and the world expert in Hashimoto's disease. He educates people worldwide on reversing Hashimoto's disease. He is a Board-Certified Family Medicine Physician, with advanced certification in Functional Medicine, Peptide therapy, and also Fellowship trained in Integrative Medicine. He has worked at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic Department of Functional Medicine alongside Dr. Mark Hyman. He has helped thousands of patients to reverse their health issues by using the concepts of functional medicine. His dedication towards his patients was recognized when he was awarded Readers Choice, Best Doctor in Northern Neck Area. He is now on a mission to help 1 billion people reverse their health conditions. To achieve this mission he has written a bestseller book called Reversing Hashimoto's. He has also started a virtual functional medicine practice, a blog, and a youtube channel so he can reach people from all over the world. His blog and youtube videos have already reached more than 50 million people worldwide.    Website Instagram Facebook YouTube Buy His Best Seller Book Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

    47 min
  8. Rebuild, Rewire, & Regulate: How to Restore Brain Calm at Any Age

    JAN 24

    Rebuild, Rewire, & Regulate: How to Restore Brain Calm at Any Age

    In this episode, I sit down with Laurie Hammer, a functional nutrition therapist, to explore the powerful connection between brain health and gut function. Laurie shares her personal journey into functional nutrition and explains why amino acids play a foundational role in both emotional resilience and physical well-being. Our conversation dives into the relationship between neurotransmitters and amino acids, with a focus on serotonin, GABA, and catecholamines. Laurie explains how imbalances in these systems can contribute to anxiety, depression, and even neurodegenerative conditions. Through clinical experience and real-world examples, she outlines how targeted amino acid therapy can create meaningful changes when applied thoughtfully and individually. We also expand the discussion beyond supplementation to the lifestyle factors that support optimal brain health. From adequate protein intake and environmental toxin reduction to grounding practices and cleaner personal care products, this episode offers a holistic framework for supporting the nervous system. It is an insightful conversation for anyone interested in practical, nutrition-driven strategies to improve brain health and long-term vitality.   Key takeaways: Amino acids are crucial for neurotransmitter balance, impacting mental health and overall well-being. Laurie Hammer emphasizes the therapeutic potential of tryptophan, glutamine, and the role of other essential amino acids in addressing brain and gut health. Lifestyle changes, including nutrient-rich diets, sunlight exposure, and grounding, are essential for maintaining optimal neurological health. Targeted, therapeutic supplementation of amino acids can significantly improve symptoms of anxiety and depression by nourishing the nervous system. Laurie Hammer's approach encourages tackling brain health through foundational elements like proteins, fats, and minerals, rather than solely focusing on genetic predispositions.   More About Laurie Hammer:   Laurie Hammer is a Functional Nutritional Therapist, speaker, and host of the Take Back My Brain Podcast. She specializes in targeted amino acid therapy and brain-first nutrition to help women—and the practitioners who serve them—overcome anxiety, overwhelm, brain fog, and burnout without relying on medications. Laurie is the creator of the Mind Thrive Amino Acid Therapy Certification and is known for her bold message: You can't medicate away a nutrient deficiency.   Website Instagram Facebook Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

    29 min
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4.9
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Welcome to Proven Health Alternatives—a webcast revealing science-based alternatives to today's healthcare practices. I'm your host, Dr. Rob Silverman, a chiropractic doctor, clinical nutritionist, functional medicine practitioner, international speaker, and author of "Immune Reboot: Your Guide to Maximizing Immunity, Restoring Gut Health, and Optimizing Vitality" and "Inside-Out Health: A Revolutionary Approach to Your Body." Join me as I converse with leading health, fitness, supplements, nutrition, functional medicine, and more professionals. Together, we explore cutting-edge approaches to proven health alternatives.

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