Dr. McMinn and  Coach Lindsay welcome nutrition expert Shannon Davis to the show to explore insulin resistance—a condition affecting millions of Americans, often without them even knowing that they have it. Learn what insulin resistance really means, how it connects to metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, and why it matters for your health.

Key Topics Covered

Understanding Insulin Resistance

• • What insulin resistance means in plain language
  • The difference between insulin resistance and insulin sensitivity
  • How common is insulin resistance? (Prevalence in the general population)
  • Why it often goes undiagnosed

The Connection to Metabolism

• • Breaking down what "metabolism" actually means
  • How insulin resistance relates to your body's metabolic processes
  • The relationship between insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes

Common Symptoms & Warning Signs

• • Fatigue and low energy
  • Stubborn weight gain, especially around the midsection
  • Excessive hunger and sugar cravings
  • Other symptoms that might surprise you

The Importance of Early Detection and Prevention

Why This Matters

Insulin resistance is a "silent epidemic" because many people have it without realizing it. Understanding the condition is the first step toward better health outcomes. If left unattended it can severely affect morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. 

About Our Guest

Shannon Davis, RD is a registered dietitian specializing in metabolic health and insulin resistance. She works with clients struggling with weight management, blood sugar issues, and related metabolic concerns.

Support the show

Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show.

-Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links."

-Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup
FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission.

Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at
https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1

Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone

You can contact Dr. McMinn at [email protected] to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows.

Follow Dr. McMinn at:
https://twitter.com/mcminnmd
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/
https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd
https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

Your Depression Might Not Be What Your Doctor Thinks It Is.

What If Your Antidepressants Aren't Working Because Nobody's Looking at the Real Problem?

You've tried the medications, and you've done the talk therapy, but nothing seems to be working. Or perhaps—you're stuck on drugs with side effects you hate, wondering if you'll ever feel normal again.

Most doctors follow a predictable script: you describe depression → they immediately get out the Rx pad and write for Prozac, or one of its many cousins. But what if your depression isn't a chemical  or neurotransmiter mbalance at all? What if it's really due to a correctable cause that's been overlooked the entire time?

In this episode of Wellness Connection MD, Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay Mathews reveal a completely different approach to depression—one that asks "Why do you have depression?” instead of "What drug should I put you on?” They walk through what may be the most complete list of root causes of depression that has ever been presented- the causes that most doctors never think about or look for. As usual on the Wellness Connection MD podcast- everything is supported by the evidence. Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay have done the homework for you. 

Key Root Causes Explored

Nutritional & Biochemical Factors: Vitamin D deficiency, B vitamin deficiencies (especially B12), omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, zinc, iron, selenium, and amino acids all directly impact mood regulation.

Hormonal Imbalances: Thyroid dysfunction, cortisol dysregulation, low pregnenolone, DHEA, estrogen (particularly during menopause and perimenopause), progesterone fluctuations, and low testosterone in both men and women can all trigger or worsen depression.

Inflammation & Food Sensitivities: Neuroinflammation disrupts mood-regulating neurotransmitters. Gluten sensitivity and other food triggers can significantly worsen depression.

Blood Sugar Dysregulation: Insulin resistance doubles the risk of major depression and can be corrected.

Infections: Chronic infections including Lyme disease, Epstein-Barr virus, chronic sinusitis, recurrent UTIs, viral myocarditis, and parasitic infections are frequently overlooked depression triggers.

Gut-Brain Connection: Dysbiosis (altered microbiome) affects serotonin and dopamine production. Chronic yeast overgrowth can produce mood-altering metabolites.

Lifestyle Factors: Exercise, sleep quality, stress reduction, social connection, purpose, sunlight exp

Support the show

Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show.

-Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links."

-Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup
FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission.

Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at
https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1

Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone

You can contact Dr. McMinn at [email protected] to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows.

Follow Dr. McMinn at:
https://twitter.com/mcminnmd
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/
https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd
https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

Ever wondered how processed foods impact health, mood, and even longevity? In this episode of Wellness Connection MD, Dr. Jim McMinn welcomes Functional Nutritionist Rachel Olsen for a practical and eye-opening discussion about processed food and its far-reaching effects. Rachel joins Dr. McMinn to break it all down for you, and explain why America leads the developed world in chronic disease, even though it spends the most money on health care. Rachel offers actionable tips for turning your diet around and improving your overall health. 

Listeners will discover:

-The difference between whole, minimally processed, processed, and ultra-processed foods

-The disease risks linked to processed foods, from diabetes and heart disease to gut issues and mood disorders

-Why ultra-processed foods are so commonplace — and how food industry tactics, convenience, and economics shape what’s on our plates

-Which additives to watch for, food label red-flags, and the “halo foods” that sound healthy but aren’t

-Realistic strategies for parents, travelers, and anyone trying to make better choices—from smart swaps to label-reading hacks

-A fascinating look at how changing diets transformed the health of the Pima people, showing what’s at stake

-Stories of real-life transformation and what it takes to see results

-The ongoing debate about food accessibility, affordability, marketing, and regulation—plus the link between processed food, addiction, and the environment.

So, whether you’re a busy professional, a parent, or just working toward better wellness, join Dr. McMinn and Rachel for science-backed answers and inspiration.

Don’t forget to subscribe, share the show, and check McMinnMD.com for more resources and to connect with us!

Support the show

Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show.

-Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links."

-Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup
FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission.

Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at
https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1

Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone

You can contact Dr. McMinn at [email protected] to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows.

Follow Dr. McMinn at:
https://twitter.com/mcminnmd
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/
https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd
https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

Did you know the average person may be ingesting a credit card’s worth of plastic every single week? Microplastics and nanoplastics are everywhere—from the deepest ocean trenches to the highest mountain peaks. But they’re not just polluting our planet—they’re infiltrating our bodies and quietly wreaking havoc on our health.

In this episode of Wellness Connection MD, Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay expose the invisible threat of microplastics and nanoplastics. You’ll discover how these “forever chemicals” enter your body through the food you eat, the water you drink, and even the air you breathe.

Recent research indicates that 100% of humans, including newborns, now carry plastic particles in their bodies. Linked to dementia, heart attacks, strokes, infertility, PCOS, endometriosis, and more, these plastics are not passive bystanders. Some of their effects may even be passed down to future generations.

Beyond our bodies, they’re devastating ecosystems—poisoning rivers, oceans, wildlife, and the very soil we depend on for food. The human cost is staggering, and the financial toll amounts to hundreds of billions of dollars in healthcare and lost productivity each year.

In this podcast, you’ll learn:

• How microplastics infiltrate your food, water, air, and everyday products—often in ways you’d never suspect.
• Cutting-edge research linking plastic exposure to heart disease, gut issues, reproductive problems, and neurodegenerative conditions.
• Why children and future generations face the highest risks.
• Practical steps to reduce microplastic exposure at home, in your community, and through policy advocacy.
• How small, individual actions—multiplied—can spark global change.

The plastics industry and government have long downplayed the dangers—but awareness is the first step toward change. If this episode opens your eyes, share it with friends, family, and your community. Together, we can reduce our plastic use, demand corporate accountability, and protect the only planet we have.

For resources, tips, and ways to get involved, visit McMinnMD.com. Let’s turn knowledge into action—for ourselves, our children, and our one and only Earth.

Stay curious. Stay informed. And remember—small actions can lead to big changes.

Support the show

Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show.

-Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links."

-Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup
FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission.

Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at
https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1

Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone

You can contact Dr. McMinn at [email protected] to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows.

Follow Dr. McMinn at:
https://twitter.com/mcminnmd
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/
https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd
https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

In this illuminating episode of Wellness Connection MD, Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay welcome renowned neuroscientist Dr. Henry Mahncke, CEO of Posit Science and creator of BrainHQ. Together, they explore the science of neuroplasticity—how the brain can adapt, heal, and grow at any age—and discuss how BrainHQ leverages this power to improve cognition, memory, processing speed, and even reduce dementia risk.

Dr. Mahncke shares compelling insights from hundreds of peer-reviewed studies and groundbreaking clinical trials, including new research on brain atrophy in long COVID, and structural brain changes observed through fMRI. You'll also hear real-world stories of transformation—from stroke recovery to safer driving—illustrating the tangible benefits of personalized brain training.

Whether you're aging proactively, recovering from illness, or simply seeking sharper mental focus, this episode delivers hopeful, evidence-based tools to support your cognitive wellness.

✨ Key Topics Covered:

• How neuroplasticity rewires the brain across the lifespan
• The evidence behind BrainHQ’s cognitive training exercises
• Long COVID, depression, PTSD & brain fog: how BrainHQ helps
• Functional medicine, brain speed, and practical applications
• Real-life success stories and future visions for brain health

"Your brain is built to grow. It just needs the right kind of challenge."

Support the show

Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show.

-Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links."

-Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup
FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission.

Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at
https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1

Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone

You can contact Dr. McMinn at [email protected] to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows.

Follow Dr. McMinn at:
https://twitter.com/mcminnmd
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/
https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd
https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

In this follow-up to their previous Parkinson’s Disease (PD) episode, Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay explore how functional and integrative medicine can complement traditional treatments for PD. They emphasize that their goal is not to replace conventional medicine, but to “fill in the gaps” with evidence-based holistic therapies that address the root causes and improve patient quality of life.

They define functional medicine as a root-cause approach that asks "why" a disease occurs, and integrative medicine as the use of non-conventional tools—like acupuncture or diet—to enhance care beyond drugs and surgery.

For PD, traditional medicine plays a vital role, especially in treating motor symptoms (e.g., tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia). However, functional and integrative approaches can address underlying contributors and may be especially useful for non-motor symptoms.

*Root Causes & Risk Factors of PD Discussed:

-Genetics & Epigenetics: Genetics increases risk, but lifestyle and environmental factors play a significant role in gene expression, via epigenetics.

-Toxins: Pesticides, solvents like TCE, heavy metals, mold, air pollution, and microplastics have all been linked to increased PD risk.

-Head trauma, especially from sports like football and soccer, increases PD risk.

-Gut-brain axis: Emerging evidence shows PD often starts in the gut, years before classic Parkinson's motor symptoms appear.

*Functional Prevention & Lifestyle Strategies:

-Diet: Mediterranean and MIND diets lower PD risk and delay symptom onset.

-Coffee: Regular consumption may lower PD risk by ~40%.

-Exercise: Reduces risk and helps with motor/non-motor symptoms. Boxing (e.g., Rock Steady Boxing), tai chi, yoga, walking, and especially dance (ParkinDance) improve motor control, cognition, and mood.

-Connection with Nature lowers PD risk.

-Avoid toxins and head injuries.

*Integrative Treatments for Non-Motor Symptoms:

-Constipation: Addressed via diet, hydration, and handouts available at www.McMinnMD.com.

-Fatigue: Covered in a previous 2018 fatigue-focused episode.

-Sarcopenia: Counteracted with resistance training, diet, TRT, and vitamin D.

-Urinary issues: Pelvic floor therapy and fluid strategies help.

-Sleep disorders: Melatonin, sleep hygiene, CBT-I, light therapy, acupuncture.

-Mood issues (anxiety, depression): Yoga, tai chi, CBT, group support, soci

Support the show

Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show.

-Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links."

-Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup
FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission.

Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at
https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1

Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone

You can contact Dr. McMinn at [email protected] to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows.

Follow Dr. McMinn at:
https://twitter.com/mcminnmd
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/
https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd
https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

This episode of Wellness Connection MD celebrates Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month. Dr. McMinn welcomes two extraordinary guests to shine a compassionate and informed light on Parkinson’s disease. Nurse Practitioner Laura Lieb, a Parkinson’s specialist at UAB and community coordinator for the American Parkinson's Disease Association, joins the conversation alongside caregiver, support group leader, and former Care Navigator for the Parkinson's Association of Alabama, Cindy McMinn, NP. Together, they explore the evolving science of Parkinson's and discuss early warning signs, symptoms, gut-brain connections, root causes, cutting-edge therapies, and the lived experience of caregiving. From practical lifestyle tips to insights on neuroinflammation and support networks, this episode is a must-listen for anyone impacted by Parkinson’s Disease. Whether you're a patient, provider, or care partner, you’ll find cutting-edge information, clarity, resources, and hope.

Want more? Visit McMinnMD.com for links, bios, and a complete resource guide.

Support the show

Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show.

-Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links."

-Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup
FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission.

Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at
https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1

Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone

You can contact Dr. McMinn at [email protected] to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows.

Follow Dr. McMinn at:
https://twitter.com/mcminnmd
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/
https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd
https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

What if the root cause of your dizziness, brain fog, fatigue, anxiety, rapid heart rate, blood pressure swings, chest pain, gut issues, and post-Covid funk wasn’t “just anxiety”—but a hidden autonomic nervous system dysfunction? In this compelling episode of The Wellness Connection MD, Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay welcome back nutritionist Tyler Mathews for an eye-opening conversation about dysautonomia—a commonly overlooked, often misunderstood condition that may be affecting millions more than we realize.

Tyler shares his incredible recovery journey from debilitating dysautonomia to vibrant health using a blend of functional medicine strategies, which include targeted nutrition (including a radical dietary shift to carnivore), thiamine, red light therapy, vagus nerve stimulation, and more. This isn’t just theory—it’s lived experience backed by solid science.

Whether you’re a patient, provider, or caregiver, this episode is loaded with practical takeaways and is a must-listen for anyone facing chronic fatigue, long COVID, or other chronic unexplained health symptoms.

👉 Ready to take back your health? Visit DysautonomiaRecovery.com to access Tyler’s course and recovery tools, and even to access one-on-one coaching. Also, check out McMinnMD.com for free resources, documents, and more. Don’t just survive—learn how to thrive.  

Support the show

Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show.

-Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links."

-Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup
FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission.

Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at
https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1

Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone

You can contact Dr. McMinn at [email protected] to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows.

Follow Dr. McMinn at:
https://twitter.com/mcminnmd
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/
https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd
https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

In this edition of the Wellness Connection MD podcast Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay take you on a thought-provoking journey through the critical role of yeast overgrowth, especially in the context of the gut microbiome, echoing the wisdom of Hippocrates that "all diseases begin in the gut."  We’ll take a deep dive into this controversial and important topic as a possible hidden culprit behind fatigue, fibromyalgia, brain fog, mood swings, irritability, headaches, joint pain, chronic sinusitis, autoimmune disease, food allergies, gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, IBS, GERD, and even stubborn weight gain. Join us as we reveal scientific evidence and compelling success stories that challenge conventional wisdom about yeast overgrowth and provide hope for those who've hit dead ends with traditional treatments. Discover the various mechanisms by which yeast in the gut microbiome wreaks havoc not only in our gut, but throughout our entire body. Discover why understanding your gut microbiome might be the game changer in your wellness journey.

Like most traditionally trained doctors, Dr. McMinn started his journey as a non-believer when it comes to yeast overgrowth. However, after witnessing the profound effects that his yeast protocol had on his patients, he could no longer deny the importance of treating yeast overgrowth for selected patients. He has now become a passionate advocate for considering yeast overgrowth in the context of the broader context of creating a balanced and healthy gut microbiome. He shares his McMinn Yeast Protocol with you and encourages providers to consider treating yeast overgrowth for patients who fit the clinical picture, especially for those desperate patients for whom standard traditional therapies have not worked. 

Support the show

Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show.

-Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links."

-Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup
FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission.

Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at
https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1

Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone

You can contact Dr. McMinn at [email protected] to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows.

Follow Dr. McMinn at:
https://twitter.com/mcminnmd
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/
https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd
https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd

In this episode of Wellness Connection MD, Dr. McMinn and Coach Lindsay discuss a functional (root cause) approach to cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death worldwide for both men and women. Your chances of dying from this disease are greater than for any other cause. You’ll find the information that you need in this podcast to improve your odds of suffering with, and dying from heart disease. 

This episode starts by defining exactly what is meant by the term “cardiovascular disease,” and discussing the various disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, stroke, heart failure, arrhythmias, and peripheral arterial disease, among others.

Then Dr. McMinn and Lindsay break down the various cardiovascular risk factors, both modifiable and non-modifiable, and they present evidence-based practical solutions, both from the functional and integrative perspective, as well as conventional approaches for prevention and treatment, with an emphasis on personalized strategies. 

The key takeaway is that understanding and addressing modifiable risk factors is crucial for both prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. 

The episode also refers to many additional resources available at McMinnMD.com, including “The Daggers of Cardiovascular Disease,” a summary of metabolic syndrome, integrative therapies for high blood pressure, sleep therapy options, Dr. McMinn’s stress toolbox and strass plan, a document about natural ways to balance lipids, information about smoking cessation, and Dr. McMinn’s cardiovascular wellness plans.

If you enjoy the podcast please leave a review on iTunes and share it with a friend. Feel free to contact Dr. McMinn at [email protected] for feedback or topic suggestions.

In closing: Your health is your greatest gift. Cherish your gift of heart health, and put together a personalized plan to live a long and healthy life by warding off cardiovascular disease.  

Support the show

Please CLICK ON THIS LINK to support the show.

-Check out our website at https://mcminnmd.com for other IMPORTANT LINKS, including social media links. You can find these at the bottom of the main page under the heading "Helpful Links."

-Click on the following link for our FULLSCRIPT dispensary for a 10% discount on physician-grade supplements: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jmcminn/signup
FullScript Dispensary is an affiliate from which I receive a commission.

Check out Dr. McMinn's Wellness MD Blog at
https://mcminnmd.com/wellness-md-blog-1

Go to https://mcminnmd.com/reviews to see How to rate and review this podcast on an iPhone

You can contact Dr. McMinn at [email protected] to leave comments or to make suggestions for future shows.

Follow Dr. McMinn at:
https://twitter.com/mcminnmd
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcminnmd/
https://www.instagram.com/mcminnmd
https://www.facebook.com/mcminnmd