The Better Yoo Project: Optimizing Health, Hormones and Aesthetics.

Lexi Yoo NP
The Better Yoo Project: Optimizing Health, Hormones and Aesthetics.

The Better Yoo Project Podcast is a weekly series covering the topics of functional medicine, case studies from her practice, nutrition of all varieties (Keto, Paleo, Vegan, Pegan, Macros, Low Fod Map, Cardiometabolic) etc, the role of the nurse practitioner, entrepreneur, hormones optimization, injectables and aesthetics, fitness and recovery, nutragenomics and supplement use! The host is Lexi Yoo NP, wife -mom-small business owner- nurse practitioner, hormone balancer, gut guru, thyroid investigator, fitness fanatic, and health hacker out of the Hoosier State.

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    62. Unlocking Longevity: Peptides, Biomarkers, and the Hallmarks of Aging with Greg Jones

    Dr. Greg Jones is a licensed Naturopathic Medical Doctor and earned his degree in Naturopathic Medicine with honors from the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM) in Tempe, Arizona. After a 20-year career in the United States Navy, Dr. Jones pursued a career in aerospace engineering before discovering his true passion lied in Naturopathic Medicine. Dr. Jones has received extensive training in regenerative injection therapy, IV nutritional therapy, bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, and peptide therapy. Dr. Jones’s goal for every patient is optimal health, energy, and happiness. Along with Dr. Jones, we’re exploring aging in this episode. We explain the distinction between lifespan and healthspan, emphasizing the latter's importance for a quality life. Dr. Jones shares insights into various aging theories, including genetic predispositions and mitochondrial dysfunction, offering advice for influencing our aging journey through personalized interventions. We also discuss the potential of peptide therapies, such as GHK-Cu and mitochondrial peptides, in promoting healthy aging and combating oxidative stress. Throughout the talk, we highlight the significance of understanding biomarkers and intervention strategies to track and enhance longevity. Topics discussed in this episode include: • How Dr. Jones differentiates between lifespan and healthspan in aging. • Why focusing on healthspan is more beneficial than just extending lifespan. • How genetic predispositions and mitochondrial dysfunction contribute to the aging process. • Why Dr. Jones strongly believes lifestyle adjustments can influence aging. • How biomarkers and intervention strategies can combat aging's hallmarks. • Why understanding immune dysfunction and neuroendocrine decline is vital in aging. • How peptide therapies, like GHK-Cu and SS-31, promote longevity. • Why monitoring oxidative stress and DNA damage is crucial for cellular health. • How methylation and telomere testing provide insights into cellular aging. • Why NAD and mitochondrial peptides are essential for healthier aging. • How lifestyle choices impact inflammation and cellular senescence. • Why personalized health strategies can extend healthspan effectively. • How emerging treatments and therapies offer hope for healthier aging. • Why sourcing peptides from reputable providers ensures safe and effective treatment. Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/ Dr. Greg Jones on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorjones_doctorjones/

    1 hr
  2. DEC 2

    61. Exploring Fatty Acids and Functional Medicine: How Fatty15 and Functional Medicine Empower Your Health

    Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson is the CEO of Seraphina Therapeutics. A seasoned veterinary epidemiologist and public health scientist, Stephanie previously served at the World Health Organization and U.S. Navy. With a life-long mission of helping people (and our fellow animals) age better, Stephanie’s award winning approach to improving human and animal health has been featured on NPR, BBC, CBS, and National Geographic. In her time as CEO, Seraphina Therapeutics has been recognized for its extensive research and education on pentadecanoic acid (C15:0).   In this conversation, Dr. Venn-Watson explains how she was led to a groundbreaking discovery of the remarkable fatty acid, C15:0. We explore how this nutrient, and its supplement form Fatty15, holds the potential to revolutionize heart health, metabolism, and immunity, offering an alternative to traditional omega-3s without the drawbacks. We highlight the intricate mechanisms of C15:0 and its role in longevity medicine, comparing its effects to well-known agents like rapamycin and metformin. Dr. Venn-Watson also shares compelling research on C15:0's benefits for conditions such as type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease, emphasizing its potential to improve sleep and mood, particularly in hormone management.   Topics discussed in this episode include: ·   How Dr. Venn-Watson transitioned from veterinary medicine to discovering a significant fatty acid. · How C15:0 and Fatty 15 could revolutionize heart health, metabolism, and immunity. · Why Fatty15 is considered a promising alternative to traditional omega-3 supplements. · How Fatty15 fits into longevity medicine alongside agents like rapamycin and metformin. · What the mechanisms are behind C15:0's activation of PPARs and inhibition of JAK/STAT. · How C15:0's anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties may position it as a geroprotector. · Why research funded by the Navy led to the development of a pure C15:0 supplement. · How patient compliance and quality in supplements affect clinical practice integration. · Why consistent use of Fatty15 shows benefits like improved sleep and enhanced mood. · How C15:0 impacts conditions like type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease. · What insights can be gained from recent studies on C15:0's role in gut health and metabolism. · The significance of maintaining cellular health and longevity. · How Steph's work with dolphins contributed to discoveries in anti-aging science. Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/   Fatty15 website: https://fatty15.com/   Fatty15 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatty15/   Fatty15 on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fatty15/

    45 min
  3. NOV 25

    60. The Clinical Application of Longevity Medicine – Future of Health

    Dr. Leonard Pastrana is with us today unpack what insights will be on display at the CALM ‘25 conference from February 28 to March 1 in Miami. We talk about the vital shift from theoretical knowledge to practical applications in clinical settings, and I share my experiences preparing a presentation on testosterone replacement therapy for women, highlighting its potential to enhance both longevity and quality of life. We also discuss the business aspects of medicine and the role of strategic partnerships in advancing clinical practice. Additionally, we introduce an exciting longevity certification launching in 2025. Topics discussed in this episode include: • How the CALM ‘25 conference focuses on practical education in longevity medicine. • Why there is a need for moving from theory to actionable clinical applications in medicine. • How testosterone replacement therapy in women can impact longevity and quality of life. • Why strategic partnerships elevate clinical practice with evidence-based protocols. • How CALM ‘25 unites top educators and practitioners for innovative insights. • The all-star lineup on speakers that will appear at CALM ’25. • Why live events spark energy and innovation, enhancing collaboration among us practitioners. • How the conference aims to empower participants to apply new knowledge immediately. • Why diverse content is offered for attendees, from beginners to seasoned practitioners. • How attendees can expect to enhance their practices and foster collaboration. • Why the conference includes diagnostic tools and methodologies for clinical applications. • The new longevity certification set to launch in 2025, which will first be revealed at the event. Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/ Register for CALM ’25: https://nubioage.com/wearecalm/?ref=lexi&utm_campaign=calm Dr. Leonard Pastrana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leonardpastrana

    20 min
  4. NOV 18

    59. Cellular Energy: Exploring NAD, DNF-10, and BAM15 with Anthony Castore

    Anthony Castore brings over 30 years of experience as a strength coach, working with professional athletes across four sports, top executives, and everyday individuals aiming to optimize their quality of life and healthspan. His career is marked by a dedication to excellence and a passion for optimization, which has driven him to continually expand his knowledge in various domains of health and fitness. Anthony has presented three times at the prestigious SWIS conference, sharing his insights and expertise with a global audience. He has also served as an instructor for the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), where he imparted his knowledge to the next generation of trainers. His mentorship under world-renowned strength coach Charles Poliquin and internationally recognized Dr. Eric Serrano has equipped him with the skills to design tailored training, diet, and lifestyle protocols for a diverse range of clients. Anthony's journey in optimization has led him to pursue extensive education in hormones, nutrition, supplements, and, more recently, peptides. He has attended four Peptide World Congresses and 11 Masterminds, completed all eight courses and peptide certifications through the SSRP Institute, and actively contributed to their discussion boards. His training includes Peptide Therapy 1 and 2, as well as Weight Loss Mastery, IV Peptides, and Peptides for Injury Repair through A4M. As a consultant, Anthony collaborates with top researchers and physicians worldwide, ensuring he remains at the forefront of health and optimization. He maintains a rigorous schedule, completing 7-10 courses per year to stay ahead in the industry. Despite being one of the industry's best-kept secrets, Anthony's humble demeanor and relentless passion for learning continue to set him apart as a leader in the field. Anthony brings us into the world of cellular energy and peptides in this episode. We check out Anthony's inspiring journey to becoming a specialist in strength and conditioning, enriched by mentorship from legends like Dr. Eric Serrano. We talk about the science of NAD supplementation and peptide therapy, revealing their crucial roles in maintaining energy levels and optimizing metabolism. Anthony shares insights on innovative peptides like DNF-10 and BAM-15, discussing their potential in weight management and treating metabolic diseases. Topics discussed in this episode include: • How elite athletes optimize energy levels and health with Anthony's expertise. • Why peptides are crucial for enhancing athletic performance. • Why NAD supplementation is vital for maintaining optimal energy levels. • How NAD can be administered through IV, intranasal, and subcutaneous methods. • What enzymes like CD38 and NNMT do in NAD metabolism. • How supplements like nicotinamide riboside and nicotinamide mononucleotide boost NAD production. • Why managing NAD levels is challenging due to aging and inflammation. • How DNF-10 peptide regulates appetite and boosts metabolism through the ghrelin pathway. • Why combining DNF-10 with growth hormone secretagogues is beneficial. • How BAM-15 mitochondrial uncoupler aids in fat loss and treats metabolic diseases. • Why DNP was banned despite its initial success in weight loss. • How BAM-15 could revolutionize approaches to metabolic and degenerative diseases. • Why practitioners need to stay informed about new peptide innovations and cellular pathways. • What innovative approaches are taken by practitioners to understand cellular pathways. • How peptide innovation continues to evolve despite regulatory challenges. • Why staying flexible and informed is crucial for better patient care. Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/ Anthony Castore on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anthonycastore/

    46 min
  5. NOV 4

    58. The Science of Skin Regeneration: Exploring PDRN and Salmon Sperm in Aesthetics

    We’re welcoming Dr. Lanna Cheuck in this episode, a former robotic urologist who pivoted to become a pioneering aesthetics expert. Dr. Cheuck discusses the science behind PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotides), a treatment that has been popular in Asia for years that is now making its way to the US, and its role in cell regeneration. PDRN is derived from salmon DNA, and it being from a natural source has led to it being a key ingredient in the regenerative medicine space. We explore the benefits of skin boosters, comparing topical cosmeceuticals with injectable treatments, and discuss the burgeoning trend of skin boosters poised to revolutionize the aesthetics industry. Topics discussed in this episode include: • Why personal adversity led Dr. Cheuck to explore functional and regenerative medicine. • An introduction to PDRN and its role in cell regeneration. • Comparison of PDRN's popularity in Asia with its emerging presence in the US. • Salmon DNA’s role as the source of PDRN, and other surprising uses of the DNA. • Explanation of the benefits of skin boosters, including enhanced collagen production and reduced inflammation. • How skin boosters offer minimally invasive alternatives to traditional fillers. • What the anticipated growth in the skin booster industry looks like. • The application of PDRN in regenerative medicine and its historical use in Korea. • How PDRN promotes cell regeneration, and the science behind its effectiveness. • Which environmental and genetic factors accelerate the aging process. • What the regulatory hurdles are that PDRN faces during the US FDA approval process. • How PDRN reduces downtime post-treatment and its anti-inflammatory properties. • The importance of education and staying updated with medical advancements in aesthetics. Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/ Dr. Lanna Cheuck on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorlanna Dr. Lanna Cheuck on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doctorlanna

    24 min
  6. OCT 21

    57. Navigating the Legalities of Med spas and Advanced Therapies

    Alongside Shamika Mazyck and Wakaba Tessier, we’re examining the complex world of med spa and integrative medicine legalities in this episode. They both practice with Quarles & Brady LLP, a legal services provider, at their Indianapolis office. Furthermore, they both specialize in healthcare regulatory law. We’ll unpack the corporate practice of medicine, highlighting the crucial need for knowledgeable legal counsel to navigate the varied state regulations. We stress the importance of informed consent, particularly for IV and peptide therapies, using real-world examples to emphasize the need for thorough patient verification. We also explore telehealth regulations, the scope of practice in regenerative and aesthetic medicine, and the distinctions between 503A and 503B compounding pharmacies. Topics discussed in this episode include: • Why the corporate practice of medicine complicates non-clinical ownership of medical practices. • Why informed consent is crucial for IV and peptide therapies. • How a recent adverse event in Texas highlights the need for thorough patient verification. • What elements should be included in patient consent forms for med spas. • Why understanding the nuances of 503A and 503B compounding pharmacies is essential. • How telehealth regulations and state-specific guidelines affect practitioner-patient relationships. • Why legal consultation is vital for compliance in regenerative and aesthetic medicine. • Why limitations of hold harmless agreements (HHAs) need careful consideration. • How proper documentation ensures legal and medical accuracy in peptide therapy. • Why continuous education for staff and patients is essential in med spas. • How legal guidance can prevent issues in the evolving landscape of med spas. • Why the differences between 503A and 503B facilities matter in compounding pharmacy practices. • How informed consent varies by treatment and requires detailed patient education. • Why documenting patient interactions is crucial for legal protection in medical practices. • Why med spas must balance business decisions with clinical expertise to ensure patient safety. Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/ Shamika Mazyck on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shamikamazyck Email Shamika Mazyck: Shamika.Mazyck@quarles.com Wakaba Tessier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wakaba-tessier-81b71a2/ Email Wakaba Tessier: Wakaba.Tessier@quarles.com

    41 min
  7. OCT 7

    56. Is Your Microbiome Preventing You from Reaching Your Weight Loss Goals?

    Cat is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and has spent most of her career in the functional laboratory diagnostic space. Her educational background has a dual appointment in exercise physiology and dietetics with a master’s degree in metabolic physiology. She has a decade of experience in advanced laboratory interpretation, education, and counseling in addition to clinical practice. She takes a functional and integrative approach to health with a firm belief that “all disease begins in the gut”. Her research interests and passions include insulin signaling, nutrient metabolism, and weight loss physiology. Cat also is a certified diabetes care and education specialist. In clinical practice, Cat specializes in cardiovascular prevention, sport performance nutrition; gluten sensitivity, celiac and autoimmune nutrition; the gut-brain connection, and of course all things related to the digestion, the microbiome and intestinal health where she has chosen to “niche down”. Cat is a member of the Medical Education team at Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory, but also the interdepartmental team coordinator playing a pivotal role in education program design. Cat is a graduate from the University of Florida. In this episode of our podcast, we’re discussing the connection between gut health and weight loss with. We explore the vital role of the gut microbiome in metabolic health and uncover how the GI map test can provide critical insights into your gut ecosystem. Cat explains the significance of microbial diversity and highlights the powerhouse bacteria Akkermansia for its anti-inflammatory benefits and its role in strengthening the gut barrier. We also get into practical dietary adjustments, the impact of medications like proton pump inhibitors and GLP-1, and the necessity of personalized treatment plans to optimize gut and metabolic health. Topics discussed in this episode include: • How understanding the gut microbiome can unlock secrets to weight loss and metabolic health. • Why the GI map test is essential for analyzing the gut ecosystem. • How low microbial diversity is linked to metabolic syndrome and cardiometabolic health issues. • The role of Akkermansia in strengthening the gut barrier and reducing inflammation. • Benefits of Akkermansia probiotics and dietary adjustments like increasing fiber and polyphenols. • Importance of amino acids like glutamine in maintaining the mucin layer. • Using berberine when weaning off GLP-1 medications for gut health. • Necessity of personalized treatment plans considering factors like affordability and willingness. • Implications of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) on gut microbiome balance. • Varying effects of GLP-1 medications on gastric motility and bowel regularity. • Importance of practitioner collaboration for ongoing learning and improved patient care. • Patterns of low microbial diversity in gut health related to metabolic syndrome. • Akkermansia’s role in preventing bacterial translocation and serving as an anti-inflammatory agent. • How GLP-1 medications can impact gut health and weight management. • The future potential of gut modulation to assist with drug efficacy and tapering off medications. • Emphasizing colorful polyphenols from foods like pomegranate and cranberry for gut health. Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/ Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory: https://www.diagnosticsolutionslab.com/ Cat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cat-simmons-ms-rd-cdces-9328b01b/

    40 min
  8. SEP 23

    55. Ozempic Face: Face Lift or Fillers? Exploring Options for Facial Rejuvenation with Dr. Mark Hamilton

    Dr. Mark Hamilton specializes solely in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. As a recognized leader in his field, Dr. Hamilton has authored multiple publications and lectured widely to his colleagues on all aspects of facial plastic surgery. He has been selected by his peers as one of Indianapolis Monthly Magazine’s “Top Docs” and has been recognized by Castle Connolly Top Doctors® in America for his work in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is actively involved at the IU School of Medicine in resident teaching and is a clinical assistant professor there. Dr. Hamilton is board certified by both the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Hamilton graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Indiana University where he also received his MD degree. He received a merit-based scholarship while in medical school and was recognized nationally for his research. He completed his residency in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at St. Louis University, and followed this by completing a Facial Plastic Surgery fellowship through Indiana University. Dr. Hamilton has served in a variety of leadership positions in the American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery, including Chairman of the Emerging Technologies Committee, Young Physicians Committee, Credentials Committee and Public Information Committee. In 2009 he was awarded the 1887 Award, nationally recognizing his commitment to the AAFPRS Foundation. He is also on the board of directors for the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and has been selected to author questions for the exam and serve as an oral examiner. He is a previous President of the Indianapolis Medical Society. Today, Dr. Hamilton will unveil the secrets to achieving graceful aging and radiant skin when it comes to facial rejuvenation. He takes us through different procedures such as facelifts, rhinoplasty, and laser resurfacing while providing info on the impacts of genetics, sun exposure, smoking, and hormonal optimization. We also explore the intriguing concept of "Ozempic face," the pros and cons of fillers and PDO threads, and offer advice on post-surgery recovery. Topics discussed in this episode include: • What "Ozempic face" is and its relation to significant weight loss and integrative medicine. • Why genetics, sun exposure, smoking, and alcohol are major factors contributing to aging. • How hormonal optimization and weight stability impact facial rejuvenation outcomes. • Why overall facial volume is essential, particularly post-significant weight loss. • How targeted treatments address fat loss in the temples, cheeks, and orbital region. • Why certain individuals, like smokers, may not be suitable candidates for facelifts. • How fillers like Sculptra and hyaluronic acid affect facelift procedures. • PDO threads and why they might not be the best long-term solution for facial rejuvenation. • Why post-surgery recovery guidelines include nutritional needs and medication management. • Why medications like Ozempic and Wegovy can still be beneficial despite affecting facial volume. • Choosing the best facial rejuvenation procedure. • Why understanding facial fat loss is crucial in aesthetic medicine, particularly with peptides. • How fat grafting and other volume restoration techniques play a role in facial rejuvenation. • Why post-surgery protein intake and proper medication management are essential for recovery. Follow our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lexiyoonp or visit us at https://www.yoodirecthealth.com/ Hamilton Facial Plastic Surgery: https://www.hamiltonfps.com/ Dr. Hamilton on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hamiltonfps/

    30 min
4.9
out of 5
29 Ratings

About

The Better Yoo Project Podcast is a weekly series covering the topics of functional medicine, case studies from her practice, nutrition of all varieties (Keto, Paleo, Vegan, Pegan, Macros, Low Fod Map, Cardiometabolic) etc, the role of the nurse practitioner, entrepreneur, hormones optimization, injectables and aesthetics, fitness and recovery, nutragenomics and supplement use! The host is Lexi Yoo NP, wife -mom-small business owner- nurse practitioner, hormone balancer, gut guru, thyroid investigator, fitness fanatic, and health hacker out of the Hoosier State.

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