Dr. Chris D’Adamo is an epidemiologist with expertise in the synergistic effects of healthy lifestyles, environmental exposures, and genetics on human health and wellness. He received his PhD in epidemiology, is the Director of the Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, and is on the Scientific Advisory Board at Designs for Health.
Together we explore key differences in clinical trials in the pharma and natural product spaces, the benefits of third-party testing, and the many challenges of getting natural product studies approved. Dr. Chris highlights his preferred supplements and lifestyle practices, offers advice to help practitioners guide their patients in supplement usage, and details the underrated, research-identified supplements that should be implemented in more diets for optimal health.
I’m your host, Evelyne Lambrecht, thank you for designing a well world with us.
Key Takeaways:
[1:20] The current state and challenges of natural products research.
[3:00] Common hurdles to getting studies approved by the Institutional Review Board.
[4:36] The impact of the Dietary Health and Supplementation Act (DSHEA) on identifying supplements as regulated food, not drugs.
[5:15] Key differences between clinical trials in pharma and the natural product space.
[6:55] Funding studies and the standard cost of IND trials.
[8:26] Tactics for more effectively evaluating the findings of clinical trials.
[11:00] Accounting for the genetic and dietary factors that affect the whole health of patients in research.
[13:07] Chris shares advice for practitioner considerations when choosing a dietary supplement.
[14:36] Resources for practitioners to help patients make informed decisions about supplement usage.
[16:32] Top underrated supplements based on research that has demonstrated effectiveness.
[21:44] Major nutrient deficiencies that are commonly identified in the research include Vitamin D and magnesium.
[23:17] Reasons that doctors and insurance have stopped covering Vitamin D testing and treatments.
[25:18] Research-backed facts addressing the dangers and benefits of protein intake in humans and animals.
[30:13] Chris highlights his personal favorite supplements, his research on collagen, and his favorite health practices.
[35:48] The importance of nasal breathing and other practices Chris has changed his mind about.
Episode Resources:
The NIH Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT)
Design for Health Resources:
Blog: Effects of Creatine on Brain Health and Function
Blog: L-Carnitine for Energy Production and Beyond
Blog: Creatine – Benefits Beyond Exercise
Blog: Applications of the Antioxidant, Astaxanthin
Blog: Research Review: Glucosamine and Chondroitin in Osteoarthritis
Visit the Designs for Health Research and Education Library which houses medical journals, protocols, webinars, and our blog.
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