Dr. Ruth DeBusk is a geneticist and clinical nutritionist with expertise in genomics and nutrition in functional medicine. She has a PhD in nutrition with research experience in biology and molecular nutrition and genetics, and is also a Registered Dietitian.

Ruth is the first ever dietician with expertise in nutrigenomics and has extensive research, teaching, and clinical experience and has authored numerous journal articles, textbook chapters, books, and patents. 

She went back into academic medicine with the goal of teaching and training the next generation of physicians on the critical areas of nutrition, genomics and epigenetics.

In  this episode, we chat with Dr. Ruth on the importance of dietetics and genomics in shifting our focus from disease to health.


Topics discussed in this episode:

- Addressing the gaps in physician training and healthcare training
- How Dr. Ruth became one of Yael’s firsts mentors
- Why Ruth decided to go down the path of nutrition and genetics
- How we can optimize our genetic potential
- Ruth’s foray into the biotech industry 
- Her frustrations and successes in the dietetics space
- Lessons she learned throughout her career, and her advice for practitioners and nutrition professionals

Changing the Conversation from Disease to Health with Dr. Ruth DeBusk

The Power of Genetics podcast shares the stories of visionary practitioners or healthcare allies who transform lives, challenge paradigms, and inspire change. Each guest has been chosen for the role they have played in driving the fields of genetics, nutrition and medicine forward

Medicine

Science & Medicine

Health & Fitness

On this episode of the Power of Genetics podcast, Dr. Yael Joffe interviews Dr. Austin Perlmutter, an internal medicine doctor and co-author of the book "Brainwash." They discuss Dr. Perlmutter's background, his transition from fiction writing to medicine, and the importance of effective health communication in the era of social media. They also explore the role of storytelling in conveying complex scientific concepts to the general public. Dr. Perlmutter shares his perspective on the limitations of conventional medicine and the growing interest in integrative approaches, such as the use of psychedelics in mental health treatment. He expresses concerns about the prevalence of chronic preventable diseases but highlights the potential for positive change through community building and lifestyle modifications. The conversation delves into the impact of choices on health, the need for real-time feedback, and the potential of psychedelics to create transformative experiences. Dr. Perlmutter emphasizes the importance of experiencing the felt knowledge of health rather than solely relying on intellectual understanding. For those starting out in the field, he advises becoming knowledgeable in a specific area and developing the ability to effectively communicate complex topics.   Topic Points  1. Importance of effective health communication in the age of social media 
 Transition from fiction writing to medicine and its influence on Dr. Austin Perlmutter's work
 The role of storytelling in conveying complex scientific information to the general public
 Limitations of conventional medicine and the rise of integrative approaches
 Potential of psychedelics as a tool for gaining immediate knowledge and creating portals to change
 Advice for individuals starting out in the field, including becoming knowledgeable in a specific area and prioritizing long-term wellness.

From Words to Medicine: Dr. Austin Perlmutter’s Journey of Transition and Influence

In this episode of the Power of Genetics podcast, Dr. Yael Joffe interviews Kerry Glassman, a celebrity dietitian and entrepreneur. Kerry shares her journey and passion for nutrition and wellness, discussing how she developed the pillars of her approach to a Nutritious Life. She talks about the challenges she faced in building her private practice and emphasizes the value of hard work and seizing opportunities. Kerry also highlights the importance of media exposure in spreading her message and making an impact. The conversation touches on the evolving landscape of social media and its advantages for those starting their careers. Kerry discusses the significance of individualized nutrition and the role of genetics in personalized medicine. She offers advice to listeners, encouraging continuous learning, seeking mentorship, and staying focused on their own path.  Topic Points:  Kerry Glassman's journey as a celebrity dietitian and entrepreneur. 
 The development of the pillars of Kerry's approach to a nutritious life.
 Challenges faced by Kerry in building her private practice.
 The importance of media exposure and seizing opportunities to make an impact.
 The evolving landscape of social media and its advantages for career starters.
 The significance of individualized nutrition and the role of genetics in personalized medicine.

Building a Nutritious Life: Kerry Glassman’s Journey as a Celebrity Dietitian and Entrepreneur

In this episode of the Power of Genetics podcast, Dr. Yael Joffe interviews Dr. Wafaa Abdel-Hadi, a clinical oncologist, about her journey from traditional cancer treatments to functional medicine. Wafaa shares her personal experiences with her father's illness and her decision to explore alternative approaches. She discusses her studies in health coaching, functional medicine, and naturopathy, emphasizing the importance of personalized approaches and incorporating genetics, nutrition, and lifestyle modifications in healthcare. Wafaa also talks about her work with cancer patients, her collaboration with Patricia Daly on a program focusing on the ketogenic diet and nutrigenomics, and her vision for the future of integrative oncology. She highlights the significance of education and empowering patients, the challenges she faces in promoting integrative oncology in Egypt, and the importance of genetics and personalized medicine in cancer care. The conversation concludes with Dr. Abdel-Hadi expressing her gratitude for the role of genetics in advancing healthcare and advocating for collaboration and knowledge sharing among practitioners.  
Topic points: 
 
 Dr. Wafaa Abdel-Hadi's transition from traditional cancer treatments to functional medicine.
 The importance of personalized approaches, incorporating genetics, nutrition, and lifestyle modifications in healthcare.
 Wafaa's work with cancer patients, utilizing herbs, nutrients, and lifestyle changes to optimize health outcomes.
 Collaboration with Patricia Daly on a program that educates patients about the ketogenic diet and utilizes nutrigenomics for personalized treatment plans.
 Empowering patients through education and awareness in order to make informed decisions about their health.
 The significance of a holistic approach to healthcare and addressing modifiable factors to improve overall well-being.

Revolutionizing Cancer Care: Integrative Oncology and the Power of Personalized Medicine

On this episode of the Power of Genetics podcast, Dr. Yael Joffe introduces Dr. Leslie Stone and Emily Rydbom. Leslie shares her transition from obstetrics to functional medicine, while Emily discusses her passion for nutrition. They stress the need for integrating functional and traditional medicine for personalized care. The conversation centers around their work with Grow Baby, a groundbreaking nutrition program for preconception and pregnancy. They explore the role of genetics in improving health outcomes and resilience. Building relationships is highlighted as crucial for effective leadership. This episode showcases the importance of embracing complexity and seeking innovative solutions in healthcare. 
 
 Limitations of traditional approaches to nutrition and the need for a new kind of nutrition professional.
 Emphasizing curiosity, open-mindedness, and challenging conventional wisdom in the field of nutrition.
 Creating the Grow Baby program to support women during preconception and pregnancy with a holistic approach.
 The value of genetics in optimizing health outcomes and promoting resilience.
 The significance of building relationships and connections to effectively lead and make a difference.
 Advocating for a holistic and personalized approach to nutrition and health for comprehensive care.

Breaking Boundaries: Integrating Functional and Traditional Medicine for Personalized Care

On this episode of the Power of Genetics Podcast, Dr. Elizabeth Boham, a registered dietitian and MD specializing in functional and integrative medicine, shares her journey and insights into nutrition, genetics, and patient care. She discusses her initial interest in nutrition, her decision to pursue an MD after being inspired by Dr. Dean Ornish's work, her struggle during medical school and residency, and her personal experience with breast cancer. Dr. Boham highlights the value of genetics in guiding personalized treatment plans and emphasizes the importance of self-care and finding joy in one's work. 
Key topics discussed: 
 Dr. Boham's initial interest in nutrition and sports performance.
 The inspiration she found in Dr. Dean Ornish's work on reversing heart disease.
 Her struggles during medical school and residency.
 Her personal experience with breast cancer and its impact on her approach to medicine.
 Joining Canyon Ranch and immersing herself in functional medicine.
 The significance of genetics in patient care and the benefits of personalized treatment plans.

Changing the Conversation from Disease to Health with Dr. Ruth DeBusk

Download our free app to listen on your phone