The Science of Self Healing with Dr. Sharon Stills

In this episode, Dr Odell discusses the critical yet often overlooked issue of insulin resistance—a hidden epidemic affecting nearly 40% of American adults. This sneaky condition, where the body’s cells don’t respond to insulin, is more than just a number on a chart; it’s a major catalyst for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and a host of other metabolic disorders. Join us as he uncovers why insulin resistance is a growing concern for so many people and explore how its widespread impact could be affecting you or someone you love. Dr. Odell will also discuss two competing theories regarding the causes of insulin resistance: the traditional view that cells become less responsive to insulin, and a groundbreaking study from 2024 suggesting that insulin may break down too quickly in the body. Learn about the critical role insulin plays in regulating energy and blood sugar levels, and discover the implications of insulin resistance on overall health. Throughout the episode, he’ll discuss practical strategies to reverse insulin resistance through dietary changes, exercise, and weight management. Find out which foods can help improve insulin sensitivity, why exercise is vital for metabolic health, and how lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce insulin resistance and its associated risks.

One in three Americans take probiotics, but are they getting the benefits they expect? In this interesting episode, Dr. Odell digs into the science of these beneficial microorganisms and separates fact from fiction. Discover why strain specificity matters, what may be a better choice for some people, and how the latest breakthroughs in probiotic technology could transform your health outcomes. From boosting immunity to improving mental health, he’ll explore the wide-ranging benefits backed by scientific evidence. Learn about postbiotics, spore technology, and personalized approaches that are revolutionizing how we think about gut health. Whether you're a probiotic veteran or considering them for the first time, this comprehensive guide provides actionable advice for making informed decisions about your microbiome. Get practical tips on choosing the right strains, proper timing, and who should (or shouldn't) be taking these supplements. Beyond the marketing hype, this episode equips you with everything you need to know about the power of probiotics for optimal health.

Join Dr. Odell as he explores the fascinating world of bacteria living in your mouth and how they affect your overall health.  Ever wondered why some people still get cavities despite perfect brushing? Or why mouthwash might not be as helpful as we think? We'll uncover the truth about your mouth's natural ecosystem and why traditional dental care might be missing the bigger picture. You'll learn about bioregulatory dentistry, a holistic approach that looks at your mouth as a window to your body's health. Plus, get practical, natural tips for maintaining a healthy mouth without harsh chemicals - from the surprising benefits of certain foods to the truth about common dental products. 

Think you're getting enough fiber? Chances are, you're not - a shocking 90% of us fall short. But this isn't just about staying regular. Join us as we reveal why it's the unsung hero of nutrition. From feeding your gut bacteria (so they don't eat your intestinal lining!) to boosting brain health, controlling blood sugar, and even helping your body remove toxins - fiber does way more than you might think. Learn the difference between soluble and insoluble fiber, discover the best food sources, and get practical tips for gradually increasing your intake without the uncomfortable side effects. This episode explains why fiber is so important and deserves more attention, whether you're very health-conscious or just starting to improve your diet.

Discover the science behind collagen supplements in this enlightening episode! Join Dr. James Odell as he discusses what collagen is, how it impacts your body, and why it might be the anti-aging secret you've been looking for. Learn about its benefits for skin, joints, and overall health, plus critical tips for choosing high-quality supplements safely.  

In this fascinating episode, we explore the science behind how habits shape our daily lives and learn practical strategies to make lasting changes.  Discover why nearly half of what we do each day happens on autopilot, and how our brain's basal ganglia creates powerful neural pathways through repetition. We'll dive into the three-step "habit loop" of cue, action, and reward, and uncover surprising research about how long it really takes to form new habits.  You'll learn evidence-based techniques for building positive routines, including habit stacking, environment design, and implementation intentions. We'll also explore why breaking bad habits is so challenging and how to effectively replace them with better ones. Whether you're looking to boost productivity, improve health, or make any meaningful change in your life, this episode provides the scientific insights and practical tools you need to succeed.

Nearly half of Americans don't get enough vitamin D, but does that mean you need a supplement? In this episode, you'll learn how vitamin D keeps your immune system strong, your bones healthy, and your mood balanced - plus discover even more surprising benefits. We'll break down everything you need to know about the "sunshine vitamin," from how your body naturally produces it to how it works together with other nutrients to keep you healthy. You'll discover who's most likely to need supplements and get clear guidance to make the right choice for your health. We'll cut through the confusion about supplementation, share what the latest research tells us, and provide practical strategies to optimize your vitamin D levels throughout the year. Whether you're feeling tired, fighting off winter colds, or just want to stay healthy, this episode will help you make sense of the vitamin D puzzle and take control of your wellbeing.

Discover the fascinating world of heart rate variability (HRV) - a powerful biomarker that goes far beyond simple heart rate monitoring.  In this informative episode, we dive deep into what heart rate variability is, how it reflects your body's stress response, and most importantly, how you can improve it for better health and well-being. Learn about the intricate dance between your sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, understand the science behind heart rate variability, and explore practical strategies to enhance your body's resilience.  From breathing techniques and lifestyle modifications to nutritional insights and cutting-edge tracking technology, this episode is your comprehensive guide to understanding and optimizing your heart rate variability.

Ever heard of biofilms? They're microscopic communities living right inside your body that can be either your best friend or your worst enemy. In this eye-opening episode, join Dr. Odell for an exploration into the fascinating world of these tiny bacterial networks. Learn how biofilms influence everything from gut health to chronic infections, and explore natural strategies to keep them in check. From oregano oil to hyperbaric oxygen therapy, we'll uncover surprising ways to support your body's delicate microbial balance. Tune in to learn more about these mysterious microorganisms and take control of your health!

In this episode, we're diving into the science behind these essential fats that your body can't live without. From boosting brain function to protecting your heart, discover why these powerful compounds are at the forefront of health research. You'll learn: The critical difference between EPA and DHA (and why you need both) How to choose the right supplement: fish oil vs. krill oil vs. algae options Why your omega-6 to omega-3 ratio matters more than you think The exact dosages needed for specific health conditions Simple ways to incorporate omega-3s into your daily routine Whether you're optimizing your health or just starting your wellness journey, this episode transforms complex science into practical, actionable steps. No more confusion at the supplement aisle – just clear, evidence-based guidance on getting the most from your omega-3s.

In this fascinating episode, we delve into the intricate relationship between your diet and your body's acid-base balance. Discover how the foods you eat influence everything from your energy levels and mood to bone health and brain function. Learn why maintaining a slightly alkaline blood pH is crucial and how your dietary choices can support or stress this balance. We explore the roles of acid-forming and alkaline-forming foods, the importance of fruits and vegetables, and practical tips to optimize your health through better food choices. Join us for an eye-opening discussion on the powerful impact of diet on your overall well-being.

In this episode, we explore why 98% of people in the U.S. aren’t getting enough potassium and the health implications of this deficit. Potassium is crucial for nerve function, muscle contractions, fluid balance, blood pressure regulation, and heart rhythm. Despite its importance, many factors, including poor diet, health conditions, and certain medications, contribute to widespread deficiency. We'll discuss symptoms like muscle weakness and high blood pressure, the long-term effects on cardiovascular health, bone density, kidney function, and more. Learn how much potassium you need, top food sources, and tips for increasing your intake to enhance your overall health.

Discover the fascinating world of your body's natural detoxification system in this eye-opening episode with Dr. Odell. Learn about the crucial role of emunctories - your body's waste removal organs - including the liver, kidneys, intestines, lungs, and skin. Understand how these organs work together to eliminate toxins and maintain your health. The episode delves into the three phases of liver detoxification, the importance of a balanced gut microbiome, and how your kidneys filter toxins. You'll also learn about the lungs' unique defense mechanisms and the skin's role in eliminating harmful substances. Packed with practical tips on supporting each of these vital organs, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to optimizing your body's natural detoxification processes for better health and wellbeing.

Join Dr. James Odell for a fascinating talk on the importance of antioxidants. Discover how these powerful molecules protect your cells from damage, combat oxidative stress, and keep you healthy. We'll explore the benefits of antioxidants, where to find them, and what happens if you don't get enough. Join us to learn how to incorporate more antioxidants into your diet and enhance your overall well-being!

Join Dr. Odell, as he unveils the surprising truth about the two forms of vitamin B9 - folate and folic acid. In this eye-opening episode, you'll discover why making the right choice could be the missing link to your health and wellness. Dive deep into the: Crucial differences between natural folate and synthetic folic acid. Remarkable health benefits of folate and risks of excessive folic acid consumption. Insider tips to ensure you're getting adequate natural folate from your diet. Whether you're interested in nutrition, pregnancy, or general wellness, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you make informed dietary choices. Tune in to understand why choosing folate over folic acid is critical for a happy and healthy life!

Ever wonder why your doctor keeps talking about blood sugar? In this episode, we dive into the world of pre-diabetes - a sneaky condition that affects 40% of adults in the US! We'll break down what pre-diabetes really means, how it messes with your body's sugar control, and why it's crucial to catch it early. You'll learn about the latest research, including how your gut bacteria play a surprising role in managing blood sugar. We'll also share some easy-to-follow tips to keep pre-diabetes at bay, from smart food choices to the best times for exercise. Whether you're health-conscious or just curious, this episode is your friendly guide to understanding and outsmarting pre-diabetes.   

In this episode, Dr. James Odell will highlight the vital role that natural light plays in our health and well-being. He'll explore the key components of sunlight - visible light, ultraviolet, and infrared radiation - and unpack the numerous benefits they provide, from regulating our circadian rhythms and vitamin D production to improving cardiovascular health and boosting mood. Dr. Odell will also contrast the advantages of natural light with the drawbacks of artificial light, particularly the blue-light-heavy LEDs and fluorescent bulbs that have become ubiquitous in modern indoor environments. He'll discuss how this artificial light can disrupt our sleep-wake cycles, cause eye strain, and deprive us of the full-spectrum benefits we get from the sun. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the science-backed benefits of natural light, and the bioregulatory medicine perspective, which emphasizes the body's innate wisdom and our deep connection with the natural world - including the sun itself.  

Ever wondered about the quality of the air inside your home? In this eye-opening episode, we explore the hidden dangers lurking in our indoor air and what we can do about them. From common household products to surprising sources of pollution, we'll uncover the truth about the air we breathe every day. Learn practical tips to create a healthier home environment and protect your family's well-being. Tune in for a breath of fresh air on a topic that affects us all!  

Join Dr. Odell as he highlights the incredible functions of our body's largest organ, the skin, and reveal practical tips to keep it glowing from the inside out. Discover: The surprising ways your skin protects and regulates your body Power-packed foods and supplements for vibrant skin Simple lifestyle changes that make a big difference The truth about collagen supplements Ancient techniques like dry brushing and modern trends in skincare From diet tweaks to stress management, learn how to nurture your skin naturally. Whether you're battling breakouts, fighting signs of aging, or simply aiming for that healthy glow, this episode is packed with actionable advice for everyone.

Did you know that approximately 16% of the global population experiences a headache daily? This staggering statistic highlights the enormous impact of headaches on global health and quality of life, affecting people of all ages, genders, and cultures. Despite their prevalence, headaches and migraines are often underdiagnosed and undertreated, emphasizing the need for greater awareness, research, and access to effective treatments. In today’s podcast, we’ll explore the four most common types of headaches: tension, cervicogenic, migraine, and cluster headaches. We’ll delve into their potential causes and effective treatments, including natural remedies, lifestyle adjustments, and holistic approaches. From posture correction and exercise to dietary adjustments and supplements, we’ll provide valuable insights to help you understand and manage headaches better. We’ll also discuss often overlooked causes, such as dental issues, hormonal imbalances, and thyroid dysfunction, and highlight the importance of getting to the root causes for effective treatment. Learn about the benefits of keeping a headache journal, stress management techniques, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule to reduce headache frequency and severity. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to managing headaches and take the first step towards a headache-free life.