Ancient humans ate dirt-covered root vegetables and fermented foods loaded with bacterial fragments, and that constant low exposure could explain why modern hygiene is backfiring on our health.

I had a great conversation with Dr. Steven Gundry about lipopolysaccharides, those inflammatory molecules from gram-negative bacteria that trigger massive immune reactions when injected, yet seem to calm the system when we eat tiny amounts from plants, spices, grains, and soil. 

He explains why he once cursed LPS in earlier books but now sees real benefits from controlled oral exposure, how fermentation has always neutralized harmful lectins, and why pastured chicken is finally becoming easier to find. 

We also touch on the hygiene hypothesis, kids eating dirt, dog owners having better microbiomes, and why over-cleanliness might be leaving our immune systems untrained.

"Bacteria are not bad in and of themselves. As long as there's a balance and the terrain is in balance, then the good guys never overwhelm the bad guys." - Dr. Steven Gundry

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About Dr. Steven Gundry:

Dr. Steven Gundry is a world-renowned cardiac surgeon, researcher, and pioneer in nutrition science. Author of multiple New York Times bestsellers, including The Plant Paradox and The Longevity Paradox, his latest book, The Gut Brain Paradox, explores how the microbiome drives mood, cognition, and chronic disease. Through his clinics in Palm Springs and Santa Barbara and his company Gundry MD, he helps thousands reclaim energy, reverse autoimmunity, and rebuild the gut-brain connection through evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle protocols.

Connect with Dr. Steven Gundry

- Website - https://drgundry.com/ 

- YouTube - https://youtube.com/drgundry   

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drstevengundry  

- Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-gundry-podcast/id1434371530 

Connect with Chris Burres:

- Website: https://www.myvitalc.com/ 

- Website: http://www.livebeyondthenorms.com/ 

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisburres/ 

- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@myvitalc 

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisburres/ 

Disclaimer

The content shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice of any kind, nor does it include any specific claims or guarantees. The views expressed are based on personal experiences, research, and individual perspectives, and are meant to inspire and inform listeners on topics related to wellness, lifestyle, and personal development.

We strongly encourage all listeners to consult with a qualified professional or licensed expert before making any decisions related to health, finances, or other sensitive areas of life. Thank you for tuning in—and for taking proactive steps toward a more informed, intentional life.