Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is the host of Functional Health Radio and a seasoned chiropractor specializing in the nervous system. She is passionately dedicated to integrating alternative health modalities, notably low-level laser therapy (LLLT), into clinical practice to improve patient outcomes. Dr. Kristin Hieshetter  has extensive experience in utilizing LLLT to treat various conditions, particularly focusing on nervous system disorders, and she actively participates in a community of healthcare providers advocating for the benefits of such technologies.

In this captivating episode of Functional Health Radio, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter delves into the fascinating domain of low level laser therapy (LLLT), tracing its roots, applications, and immense potential in modern healthcare. Introducing listeners to a classified 1983 document by Wayne M. McDonnell, Dr. Hieshetter  uncovers the early explorations into how frequencies and light pulses can modulate brain function and alter states of consciousness. This historic groundwork sets the stage for understanding how LLLT can powerfully influence and enhance clinical outcomes today.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Hieshetter  underscores the scientific basis behind low-level laser therapy, emphasizing its ability to stimulate neurogenesis, repair the blood-brain barrier, and combat conditions like peripheral neuropathy and chronic pain. Using Erconia lasers, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter illustrates various success stories, ranging from trauma recovery and peripheral neuropathy treatment to innovative applications in neurology. She cautions listeners on the importance of selecting the right type of laser, highlighting safety considerations and recommending Class 2 low-level lasers over hot laser alternatives. She rounds off the episode urging for greater awareness and education about lasers in therapeutic contexts.

• Low-level laser therapy uses light at specific wavelengths to promote healing and regeneration in body tissues.
• Lasers are more effective than LED and infrared lights, with applications ranging from pain reduction to the enhancement of neurological functions.
• Safety is paramount in laser therapy; correct wattage, wavelength, and joule application must be adhered to avoid potential harm.
• Stories of recovery and improved health outcomes reinforce the transformational power of low-level laser therapy in clinical settings.
• Encouragement of supporting Waymaker Off-Road Wheelchairs, a nonprofit providing terrain-capable wheelchairs, tied to the broader narrative of healing and mobility.

• "What alarms me about it is, did our government know this and know that they could make lights blink at a certain frequency…?”
• "Changing pulses per second could change brain function."
• "Low-level lasers help your mitochondria heal. They help your mitochondria function better."
• "Ask your provider how many milliwatts the laser is?… If they can't answer that, they should not be using it with you."
• "If we don't see miracles every day in my office, I'm doing something wrong."

• Erconia Low Level Lasers: The world leader in low-level laser technology.
• Waymaker Off Road Wheelchairs: A nonprofit organization providing specialized wheelchairs for rugged terrains.
• Functional Health Mastery University (Upcoming): An educational platform for providers interested in learning about functional health therapies.
• Functional Health Mastery Group

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter exploration into low level laser therapy opens a portal to understanding its profound impact on health and wellness. For those eager to explore this burgeoning field, tuning into the full episode promises an enriching experience filled with clinical insights and practical advice. Stay connected with Functional Health Radio for more episodes that push the boundaries of conventional medicine.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a distinguished chiropractor and host of Functional Health Radio. Known for her expertise in functional health and university-level teaching, Dr. Kristin is an advocate for natural wellness practices and reducing dependency on ultra-processed foods. She aims to enlighten listeners worldwide about holistic approaches to health, combining knowledge from chiropractic care, functional medicine, and neurology. As a leader in wellness, she is also at the forefront of creating an online educational platform, Functional Health Mastery, to guide providers interested in functional medicine.

Join Dr. Kristin Hieshetter in this enlightening episode of Functional Health Radio, recorded in January 2025. Embarking on a New Year journey, Dr. Kristin emphasizes awareness and action against ultra-processed foods, highlighting their negative impact on health. As a global leader in wellness, she uses her expertise to advocate for a proactive approach to health, focusing on simple, cost-effective lifestyle changes that can enhance the quality of life.

Dr. Kristin unpacks the alarming reality of ultra-processed foods, using comprehensive studies and statistics that link these foods to increased cancer risks, including breast cancer. She paints a vivid picture of how pervasive chemicals in processed foods and environmental toxins create what she terms a "biochemical bruise," triggering unseen inflammation and health crises. Dr. Kristin calls for urgent dietary shifts, urging listeners to adopt perimeter shopping and focus on organic, whole foods to stave off these preventable diseases. Her advice extends to practical solutions, like assessing water quality through the Environmental Working Group and avoiding known carcinogens like titanium dioxide.

• Ultra-processed foods significantly increase the risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer, due to their high content of sugars, chemicals, and additives.
• Avoiding ultra-processed food and adopting organic, whole foods can drastically improve health and reduce chronic disease risk.
• Environmental toxins in air and water can contribute to a "biochemical bruise" that may lead to unexplained pain or inflammation.
• Awareness and proactive management of personal diet choices and environmental exposure can significantly impact health outcomes.
• The educational initiative Functional Health Mastery is launching to support providers interested in functional medicine education.

1. "The point that we all hold dear across the health provider board is that we have more say over our health than we are led to believe."
2. "The top 25% of ultra-processed food consumers have a 23% increased risk of cancer, with breast cancer risking rising sharply."
3. "Avoid titanium dioxide; it's known internationally to give you colon cancer."
4. "You’ll be dead faster if you eat that garbage in the middle of the grocery store."
5. "Everything you put in your mouth either immediately helps you or immediately harms you."

• Functional Health Mastery Group 
• Environmental Working Group (EWG) for water quality testing
• British Medical Journal Article: "Consumption of Ultra Processed Food and Cancer Risk Results from Nutri Net Sante Perspective Cohort"
• Upcoming Functional Health University courses (Stay tuned for more details on enrollment)

Get ready to transform your approach to health by listening to the full episode. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions from Dr. Kristin Hieshetter on Functional Health Radio, as she continues to unveil practical strategies for thriving in an increasingly challenging food landscape.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a dedicated and dynamic expert in functional health and neurology. Passionate about children's health and neurodevelopment, she works with complex clinical cases often considered untreatable by others. Dr. Kristin Hieshetter shares her expertise globally through her podcast, Functional Health Radio, reaching audiences in over 40 countries. Committed to empowering individuals to lead their best lives, she seeks to make a tangible difference in health by exploring and understanding the intricate connections within the body, particularly between gut health and brain development.

Welcome to this enlightening episode of Functional Health Radio with Dr. Kristin Hieshetter, where we dive deeper into the complex interplay between brain health and gut bacteria. In a follow-up to last week's compelling episode on children's neurological well-being, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter unpacks the critical role of gut microbiota in neurodevelopmental disorders. With a focus on immunomodulators like peptidoglycans, this episode explores how these bacterial components impact cognitive and emotional health, particularly in children.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter discusses the profound effects of antibiotics on children's learning and hormonal development, stressing the importance of maintaining a balanced microbiome for optimal brain connectivity. The conversation shifts to scientific findings from the journal "Protein & Cell," where Dr. Kristin Hieshetter references a significant study on the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis and its implications for neurodevelopmental disorders. Tune in to understand how the right composition of gut flora supports critical functions like synaptogenesis, which influences behaviors, anxiety levels, and stress responses.

• The balance of gut bacteria is crucial for children's brain development, influencing learning, hormone development, and immune responses.
• Peptidoglycans, derived from gut bacteria, can cross the blood-brain barrier and are instrumental in activating pattern recognition receptors, which are key in cognitive functions.
• Overuse of antibiotics in early childhood can disrupt learning trajectories and brain connectivity.
• Proper gut flora and dietary intake can regulate the body's inflammatory response, positively impacting social behavior and anxiety levels positively.
• Functional health approaches, including probiotics and low-level laser therapy, offer promising avenues for correcting imbalances in gut and brain health.

1. "Your body…it's the greatest gift you will ever have."
2. "You mean your gut can make your brain screwed up? Yes."
3. "We evolved with microbes, with more of them in our gut than human cells in our entire bodies."
4. "Every child in this world has a place. Every child is important."
5. "The right bacteria can help protect you."

• Article: "The Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis and Neurodevelopmental Disorders," published in "Protein & Cell," May 2023, by Wang, Yang, and Lou.
• Resource site: PubMed
• Functional Health Mastery

Join Dr. Kristin Hieshetter as she unravels complex health issues with compassion and expertise, bringing us all one step closer to living healthier, more vibrant lives. Tune into the full episode to uncover the fascinating connections between the gut and the brain, and how they shape our lives from infancy through adulthood. Stay tuned for more transformative insights from Functional Health Radio by subscribing to future episodes.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a prominent voice in the field of functional health and wellness. Known for her comprehensive understanding of the gut-brain axis, has dedicated years to studying the connection between microorganisms and brain health. Beyond hosting "Functional Health Radio," she contributes to Functional Health University, imparting her knowledge on neurodevelopmental disorders, gut microbiota, and integrative health solutions. Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is celebrated for her evidence-based approach and commitment to changing global health trajectories through education and research.

In this captivating episode of Functional Health Radio, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter dives into the profound connection between the gut microbiome and brain health, a relationship crucial for brain development, immune system function, and hormonal balance. By examining the current research, she challenges prevailing notions about ADHD, autism, and other neurodevelopmental disorders, highlighting the pivotal role of gut health in these conditions. Dr. Kristin Hieshetter praises independent researchers who pioneer studies leading us away from pharmaceuticals and government-backed data, providing invaluable insights into the human body's interconnected systems.

This episode unpacks the bidirectional communication between the gut and brain.Dr. Kristin Hieshetter weaves through complex concepts such as the role of neurotransmitters, immune pathways, and short-chain fatty acids, elucidating how gut microorganisms influence systemic health. Listeners are introduced to compelling clinical examples, emphasizing the life-changing potential of a well-balanced gut microbiome for individuals suffering from chronic ailments. Through an exploration of these themes, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter reinforces the episode’s core message: "fixing the gut can fix everything," urging audiences to embrace probiotics for optimal health outcomes.

• Understanding the gut-brain axis is essential for improving brain development, immune function, and hormonal signaling.
• Gut microorganisms produce neurotransmitters and anti-inflammatory compounds, crucial for neurodevelopmental health, particularly in ADHD and autism.
• Dysbiosis, or bacterial imbalance, can lead to leaky gut syndrome and chronic inflammation, affecting overall health and brain function.
• Short-chain fatty acids produced by gut microbes play a pivotal role in healing gut epithelial injuries and regulating immune responses.
• It is imperative to choose high-quality probiotics from reputable sources to ensure their efficacy and impact on health.

• "If you’re an adult who struggles with ADHD and have your entire life, it may have simply been the fact that your gut was not colonized with the right microorganisms when you were born."
• "Fixing the gut can fix everything."
• "Your gut interacts with your brain through various physiological processes."
• "When you have the right gut microbiome, you inhibit neuroinflammation in your children."
• "Please, for the love of God, do not get your probiotics from Amazon."

• Journal Reference: Protein Cell, May 2023 - Review article by Wang, Yang, and Liu.
• Functional Health University
• Erchonia Laser Research
• Functional Health Mastery

Listeners are encouraged to explore the full episode for an in-depth understanding of how gut health influences brain function and to discover practical advice on improving overall wellness. Stay tuned to Functional Health Radio for more expert insights and transformative health discussions.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is the host of Functional Health Radio and a distinguished health professional specializing in gut health. As a chiropractor with a keen interest in nutrition and the human nervous system,  leverages her expertise to offer transformative health solutions. Her clinical practice is known for its focus on gut health, aiming to bring about holistic well-being through a functional medicine approach. Dr. Kristin Hieshetter dedication to health education is reflected in her new initiative, the Functional Health University, designed to empower both practitioners and patients with evidence-based knowledge and supported practice.

Welcome to another insightful episode of Functional Health Radio with Dr. Kristin Hieshetter. This week, Dr. Kristin dives deep into the fascinating connection between gut microbiota and brain health, unraveling the latest scientific insights into how our gut microorganisms can impact mental well-being and neurological conditions. From the evolution of irritable bowel syndrome definitions to understanding the gut-brain axis and its role in diseases like Parkinson’s, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter explores the powerful influence of gut health on mental clarity, mood, and immune function.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter embarks on a comprehensive literature review, uncovering advanced research links between serotonin metabolism and gut microbes. Highlighting notable studies from reputable journals such as Current Drug Metabolism and Behavioral Brain Research, she details how serotonin—a key neurotransmitter produced in the gut—affects psychological health and examines factors such as antibiotics, diet, and stress that disrupt gut health. The episode also emphasizes the significance of maintaining a robust gut microbiome, especially during crucial developmental periods such as infancy, outlining proactive steps to enhance serotonin levels naturally, potentially alleviating anxiety and depression through gut health optimization.

• Gut-Brain Communication: The gut and brain communicate via a bi-directional axis crucial for mental and emotional health.
• Serotonin Production: 90-95% of serotonin is produced in the gut; having a healthy gut microbiome is vital for balanced serotonin levels.
• Impact of Microbiota on Mental Health: Alterations in gut microbiota composition can contribute to psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety.
• Factors Affecting Gut Health: Antibiotics, diet, and environmental stressors can negatively impact gut microbiota, emphasizing the need to manage these factors.
• Probiotics and Gut Health: Quality probiotics can restore gut flora, potentially enhancing emotional and cognitive health.

1. "The gut and your brain communicate on a bi-directional axis. For every nerve that goes from your brain to your gut, nine go back up."
2. "Serotonin is our happy hormone. It’s not just in the brain but plays significant roles in your GI and even in liver health."
3. "Normalizing the gut flora reduces anxiety, depression, and stress response, improving overall brain health."
4. "You have this one important window of opportunity to give your kids maximized connections in the brain with the right microbiome."
5. "The gut microbiome's impact is more significant in males than females, making it crucial to have balanced gut health."

• Current Drug Metabolism
• Behavioral Brain Research
• Functional Health Radio
• Vibrant America
• Functional Health Mastery

Delve into the full episode to explore the profound relationship between gut health and mental well-being. Discover actionable insights and stay tuned for more episodes that inspire a healthy and vibrant life!

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a prominent figure in the field of functional health and neurology, known for her extensive knowledge and innovative approach to healthcare. As the host of Functional Health Radio, she shares her expertise and insights on various health topics, aiming to inspire and inform her listeners. With a dedication to evidence-based practice, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is committed to providing well-referenced information to support healthy lifestyle changes. She is also actively involved in educating healthcare providers through the Functional Health University, helping to create more practitioners who can work in the functional health paradigm.

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Functional Health Radio, where Dr. Kristin Hieshetter dives deep into critical health issues plaguing modern society, focusing particularly on declining life expectancy rates and the alarming rise in chronic conditions affecting both adults and children. In this episode, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter sheds light on the multifactorial nature of Alzheimer's disease, exploring its potential causes, including chronic inflammation, dietary influences, and environmental factors like aluminum exposure.

Throughout this discussion, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter emphasizes the intricate relationship between modern lifestyle choices and neurodegeneration, strongly advocating for proactive measures such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and avoiding environmental toxins. With references to groundbreaking scientific studies and expert opinions, she challenges the conventional understanding of Alzheimer's etiology, highlighting the potential role of aluminum in cognitive decline. Listeners are encouraged to make individual health adjustments and are presented with a practical roadmap to prevent Alzheimer's through lifestyle optimization and informed choices.

• Recent studies highlight a decline in US life expectancy, and Dr. Kristin Hieshetter offers insights into addressing this trend by optimizing health and wellness.
• Alzheimer's disease is referred to as "diabetes of the brain," often associated with factors like glycation, gut-brain axis disruptions, and genetic predispositions.
• Aluminum exposure is discussed as a significant risk factor for Alzheimer's, prompting a call for reduced use in consumer products and increased public awareness.
• Dr. Kristin Hieshetter emphasizes simple yet impactful lifestyle adjustments, such as maintaining a whole-food diet, regular exercise, and ensuring adequate sleep, to prevent cognitive decline.
• The Functional Health University aims to educate healthcare providers on functional approaches, fostering broader efforts to improve health outcomes globally.

1. "The human body is the most amazing, intelligent, responsive, adapting, and aware system in the world."
2. "Alzheimer's disease is considered a chronic aluminum intoxication."
3. "Avoid aluminum in all its forms to protect against Alzheimer's disease."
4. "We must create more doctors who like to work in this type of setting and in this way help their patients with this type of information."
5. "Exercise is the number one recommended activity to delay Alzheimer's disease."

• University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Alzheimer's Study
• Jeffrey Jackson's investigative journalism on Alzheimer's research
• Journal of Alzheimer's Disease Reports, June 2017 issue
• Christopher Exley's work on aluminum exposure and human health
• Functional Health University: Functional Health Mastery and Functional Neurology Mastery programs
• Functional Health Mastery

Join Dr. Kristin Hieshetter on Functional Health Radio for this deep dive into Alzheimer's disease and wellness optimization. Tune in to learn how simple lifestyle changes can make a profound difference in your health journey, and stay connected for more innovative health insights.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a renowned expert in functional health and neurology. With years of experience, she has dedicated her career to exploring alternative health practices that enhance the body’s natural healing abilities. As the host of Functional Health Radio, she shares actionable insights and strategies to empower individuals towards better health without over-reliance on pharmaceuticals. Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is also involved in training healthcare practitioners through Functional Health Mastery, an initiative aimed at equipping professionals with functional health knowledge.

In this thought-provoking episode of Functional Health Radio, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter delves deep into the pressing issue of declining life expectancy and rising chronic illnesses in children in the United States. Reflecting on statistics from the CDC and the World Economic Forum, she questions the country's healthcare approaches despite high spending. With a commitment to holistic well-being, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter champions unlocking the human potential by focusing on functional health tactics that can empower an individual's innate healing processes.

In the episode titled "What to Do When You're Sick," Dr. Kristin Hieshetter emphasizes self-care practices to boost immunity, such as the strategic use of essential oils like frankincense and myrrh, and the incorporation of low level laser therapy to improve immune response. Stressing the importance of environmental influences, she urges listeners to be mindful of harmful substances in everyday products and the significance of a clean, organic diet. Dr. Kristin Hieshetter highlights the alarming presence of toxins in consumer products, illustrating the potential impact on public health and urging for more informed choices. Her passionate advocacy for a shift towards functional health models that complement traditional medicine forms the crux of this episode.

• Essential oils like frankincense and myrrh offer powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, supporting holistic immune health.
• Self-care strategies such as habit stacking can significantly enhance one's overall health and well-being, reducing reliance on pharmaceuticals.
• Low level laser therapy presents promising health benefits, including enhanced immune response, reduced inflammation, and mitochondrial protection.
• Environmental and dietary factors, such as exposure to Wi-Fi radiation and non-organic toxins, are significant concerns in modern healthcare.
• Functional Health Mastery offers training for healthcare providers looking to integrate functional health practices into their therapeutic repertoire.

• "We are walking around in the most amazing, intelligent, responsive, adapting, and aware system in the world. The human you."
• "When you combine frankincense and myrrh in a blend, it changes the chemical composition and they emerge into new chemical compounds."
• "What would a pill cost if it could do all those things? And I hold it in my hand every day, and I use it in clinical practice."
• "Not only will it screw up your brain and make your kids have a lower IQ, I mean, this is a crime against humanity."
• "There are ways to help that aren't pharmacologically driven. And yes, those treatments are critical. We need them."

• Functional Health Mastery
• Environmental Working Group (EWG): EWG Website
• Molecules Journal: Molecules, September 2019, Volume 24, Number 7
• Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery Journal: September 2022
• Moms Across America: Moms Across America

Tune in to the full episode of Functional Health Radio to explore these insights further and join Dr. Kristin Hieshetter on a journey to uncover the transformative potential of functional health practices. Keep listening for more episodes that challenge conventional thinking and inspire proactive health choices.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is an experienced practitioner in the field of functional health and wellness. Known for her pioneering work, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter hosts "Functional Health Radio," where she explores innovative approaches to health care. She has a commendable history of integrating traditional and alternative medical practices, offering valuable insights into addressing chronic conditions. also spearheads Functional Health Mastery, a program dedicated to educating healthcare providers about incorporating functional health principles into their practices.

In this engaging episode of "Functional Health Radio," Dr. Kristin Hieshetter dissects the concerning decline in the U.S. life expectancy rates and the rise of chronic illnesses among children. Delving into causes and solutions, she emphasizes the critical role of the human body's innate intelligence and potential. With a compassionate approach, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter discusses personal experiences with illness and outlines natural protocols and health practices suitable for boosting immunity and overall wellness.

Highlighting the effectiveness of functional health approaches, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter covers various natural remedies and practices such as essential oils, low-level laser therapy, natural teas, and more. She expertly weaves in discussions about the health benefits of turmeric and ginger, underscoring their scientific backing and utility in modern healthcare. Essential oils like frankincense and blends such as Thieves are further explored for their medicinal properties. The episode resonates with a call to action for both practitioners and the general audience, inviting them to explore the depths of natural, functional health solutions.

• The importance of natural remedies and functional health practices in combating chronic and common illnesses.
• Insight into family-oriented health practices, emphasizing the effectiveness of natural protocols like essential oils and low-level laser therapy.
• The significance of integrating functional health teachings into mainstream clinical practices for broader healthcare reform.
• Emphasis on dietary choices, such as turmeric and ginger, for their antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.
• Encouragement for healthcare providers to engage with Functional Health Mastery for expanded learning and practice integration.

• "The human body is the most amazing, intelligent, responsive, adapting, and aware system in the world."
• "Turmeric has a 2500-year record of treating wounds, illness, and disease."
• "Incorporating natural remedies like ginger and turmeric can enhance the body's ability to release congestion and support healing."
• "The low-level laser promotes stem cell production, protects against free radical damage, and can enhance your immune responses."
• "When you're sick, it's not just about pharmaceuticals; it's engaging with what our great-great-grandmothers already knew was potent and useful."

• Functional Health Mastery
• Frontier Organics
• PubMed Database
• Young Living Essential Oils
• Erconia Low Level Lasers: https://www.erchonia.com/

Explore the episode further for a wealth of knowledge on integrating effective, natural solutions to enhance your health journey. Stay connected for more enriching discussions and actionable insights from "Functional Health Radio."

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is an esteemed health expert and the host of "Functional Health Radio." She possesses a wealth of knowledge in functional medicine, emphasizing lifestyle modifications to enhance overall well-being. Dr. Kristin Hieshetter has dedicated her career to unraveling the complexities of health issues in America, focusing on preventative measures and functional health education. She is also an active participant in the Functional Health Mastery Group, aiming to inspire a healthier society through educating healthcare providers and the public.

In this episode of "Functional Health Radio," Dr. Kristin Hieshetter delves into concerning health trends in the United States, including declining life expectancies and the rising prevalence of chronic diseases among children. Drawing from authoritative sources like the CDC and the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, she outlines the persistent challenges in treating major health issues such as heart disease and cancer. Through a functional medicine lens, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter explores how lifestyle changes, like better diet, exercise, and stress management—can significantly alter health outcomes and extend life expectancy.

The episode highlights key insights from a large-scale study on military veterans, revealing that lifestyle choices profoundly influence longevity. Dr. Kristin Hieshetter emphasizes that physical activity, social connections, and avoiding harmful substances are crucial to extending life expectancy by several years. Additionally, the episode addresses environmental health concerns, introducing listeners to harmful agricultural chemicals like chloromiquat, and discusses the role of ultra-processed foods in public health. Dr. Kristin Hieshetter passion for promoting functional health is evident as she urges listeners to take proactive steps in their daily lives.

• Declining Life Expectancy: Life expectancy in the US has been decreasing, with significant contributing factors including chronic diseases and lifestyle choices.
• Impact of Lifestyle Changes: Adopting healthy habits can significantly increase life expectancy, particularly when changes are embraced early in life.
• Role of Functional Health: Functional medicine emphasizes the importance of lifestyle modifications over medications for preventing diseases.
• Chloromiquat Warning: The episode highlights the dangers of chloromiquat, a harmful chemical found in many grain products, affecting fertility and health.
• Ultra-Processed Food Risks: Consumption of ultra-processed foods is linked to addiction and various health issues, urging a shift towards whole foods.

• "We are no better at healing heart disease and cancer than we were in the 1950s."
• "Chronic lifestyle-driven diseases comprise over 80% of all healthcare dollars spent in the U.S."
• "Lifestyle factors are so powerful; none of the longevity factors involve medications."
• "Physical activity had the greatest influence on life expectancy."
• "Klormaquat was detected in the urine of 100% of study participants at higher concentrations and greater frequency than any other pesticide."

• American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
• CDC Vital Statistics Report
• Functional Health Mastery
• Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology
• Environmental Working Group (EWG)

Listeners are invited to dive deeper into the insights shared in this episode, exploring how functional health can transform their lives. Stay tuned for more episodes of "Functional Health Radio" for practical advice and empowering education.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is a renowned expert in functional health, committed to transforming healthcare through education and advocacy. With a strong background in chiropractic medicine and functional health, Dr. Kristin Hieshetter is known for her informative podcast, "Functional Health Radio," where she explores critical health issues and provides actionable insights to her audience. She collaborates closely with other functional medicine practitioners to inspire changes in how health is managed holistically.

In this engaging episode of "Functional Health Radio," Dr. Kristin Hieshetter dives deep into the alarming decline in life expectancy in the United States, as reported by the CDC and NPR. She discusses the significant rise in chronic diseases among children, including diabetes and asthma, and stresses how the U.S. healthcare system, despite high healthcare spending — hasn't advanced in effectively dealing with heart disease and cancer since the 1950s. Dr. Heischetter advocates for harnessing the body’s adaptive capabilities by exploring functional health approaches and inspiring change on a community level.

Dr. Kristin Hieshetter passionate discourse challenges the widespread consumption of soda, highlighting its association with numerous health issues, such as increased fracture risk, and chronic illnesses like diabetes and neurological disorders. Through an array of studies from respected journals and institutions, she presents a compelling picture of the pervasive dangers of soda consumption, including artificial sweeteners and carcinogens found in popular beverages. With engaging narratives and scientific insights, she exposes the lack of regulation and the public misinformation perpetuated by the food industry. This episode pushes listeners to advocate for safer food practices and make healthier choices for themselves and their families.

• Decline in U.S. Life Expectancy: A startling decline in life expectancy is linked to chronic diseases, despite high healthcare spending.
• Health Risks of Soda Consumption: Soda consumption exacerbates various health issues, including diabetes, neurological disorders, and increased cancer risks.
• Harsh Effects of Artificial Sweeteners: Artificial sweeteners like aspartame can lead to severe neurological and carcinogenic impacts.
• Carcinogens in Beverages: Harmful substances like 4-MEI in caramel coloring raise cancer risks, with alarming disparities in safety standards across states.
• Urgent need for Regulatory Change: Dr. Hieshetter advocates for better regulatory oversight to prevent health risks from everyday food and beverages.

• "We are walking around in the most amazing, intelligent, responsive, adapting, and aware system in the world—the human you."
• "Our water is garbage…our average consumption of soda and its contents is driving chronic illness."
• "Aspartame causes the same brain damage you would get if you'd gotten punched in the head a few times."
• "The risks of consuming soda, especially those with artificial sweeteners, cannot be any clearer."
• "You can buy more poison cheaper than you can buy beneficial nutrients for your kids."

• CDC Vital Statistics Report
• Environmental Working Group Water Database
• Functional Health Mastery
• Functional Health Mastery Instagram

Listen to the full episode for a comprehensive understanding of the risks associated with soda consumption and explore more insightful episodes with Dr. Kristin Hieshetter on "Functional Health Radio." Stay tuned for more transformative content aimed at reshaping global health perspectives.