Health vs Hype with the American Medical Association

Can probiotics, prebiotics, sea moss, and fermented foods really improve your gut health? And what does the science actually say about your gut microbiome? On this episode of Health vs. Hype from the American Medical Association, host Trace Dominguez explores the science behind gut health trends with Danielle Brown, holistic nutritionist and New York Times bestselling cookbook author behind Healthy Girl Kitchen, and Dr. Mohamed Mokadem, gastroenterologist and professor of medicine at the University of Iowa. From sea moss gel and probiotic supplements to postbiotics, prebiotics, fermented foods, and so-called “leaky gut,” we examine which wellness claims have scientific support and where the evidence is still developing. Dr. Mokadem explains what the gut microbiome does, how diet and antibiotics can affect it, and what researchers know about the gut-brain connection and its relationship to digestion, stress, and mental health. We also explore whether everyone needs a probiotic, how prebiotics differ from probiotics, what postbiotics actually are, and why there’s no single ideal microbiome for everyone. Plus, Danielle shares her personal journey with plant-based eating and gut health, while Dr. Mokadem explains why restrictive elimination diets and expensive supplements may not be the answer for everyone. Learn what the evidence supports, which warning signs deserve medical attention, and how a varied, balanced diet can help support digestive health. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is everywhere right now, but what does the science actually say about HRT for menopause and perimenopause? In this episode of Health vs. Hype, Trace Dominguez separates the evidence from the hype around one of the most debated topics in women’s health. Dr. Elizabeth Lapeyre, a board-certified OB-GYN and menopause specialist, explains what happens to estrogen and progesterone during perimenopause and menopause, which symptoms hormone therapy can help, and how the risks and benefits of HRT have changed as the science has evolved. We look at the history of the Women’s Health Initiative study, why its findings had such a lasting impact on how people viewed HRT, and why details like the type of hormone, how it’s delivered, when treatment begins, and a person’s health history matter. Plus, Pilar Guzman of Oprah Daily and CeCe Moreno of Silver Sister Says share their perspectives on why menopause is finally getting more attention, and why there’s still a lot we don’t know. HRT isn't simply all good or all bad. So what does the evidence really tell us? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GLP-1s have become one of the biggest stories in health and weight loss. But beyond the headlines and social-media hype, what do we actually know? Trace Dominguez breaks down how GLP-1 medications work with obesity medicine specialist Dr. Sean Hashmi, while online influencers Todd Masterson and Ashley Gibson share their experiences, including changes in appetite, weight, and what some people call “food noise.” Then we go beyond weight loss. Researchers are investigating GLP-1s for sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, addiction, and other conditions. Some of the findings are intriguing. Others are preliminary. And some claims circulating online don't have enough evidence behind them yet. We also get into GLP-1 side effects, compounded medications, long-term treatment, weight regain, and the next generation of drugs. Because when it comes to GLP-1s, the science is moving quickly. The challenge is knowing the difference between what we know and what we hope might be true. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maybe you've seen someone wearing a glowing red LED mask on social media. Or an ad promising smoother skin, thicker hair, less pain, and faster recovery – all from a few minutes under a red light. But how much of that is backed by science? In this episode of Health vs. Hype, Trace Dominguez shines a light on one of the internet's biggest wellness trends: red light therapy. Joined by dermatologist Dr. Margareta Masse, he explores how photobiomodulation works, why different wavelengths matter, and which claims have real evidence behind them. Along the way, influencer Sly Huncho, skincare creator Rosa Hoffman, and melanoma survivor Mika Stambaugh share their personal experiences using red light therapy for everything from acne and wrinkles to wound healing and inflammation. So, can red light therapy actually boost collagen? Does it help acne, scars, or hair loss? And are those expensive at-home masks worth the money? Tune in as we separate science from social media and find out whether red light therapy is all health... or just hype. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cold plunges. Ice baths. Saunas. Contrast therapy has taken over social media, with influencers and athletes claiming that alternating between hot and cold can speed muscle recovery, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, boost mental health, and even make you more resilient. But does the science actually support those claims? In this episode of Health vs. Hype, host Trace Dominguez explores what happens inside your body when you switch between heat and cold, why a cold plunge can leave you feeling energized and euphoric, and whether contrast therapy delivers more than a temporary boost. Joined by sports medicine physician Dr. Chelsea Evans, Trace separates the evidence from the hype, explaining what research shows about pain relief, athletic recovery, circulation, mood, and long-term health benefits—and who should think twice before taking the plunge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.