In this podcast episode, the host, McCall McPherson, delves into a variety of health topics, sharing personal experiences and answering listener questions. Recorded in a relaxed setting in Sicily, the episode covers wine consumption, medications like metformin and GLP (glucagon-like peptide), and low-dose naltrexone (LDN). This blog post will break down the key points discussed, offering detailed insights and actionable advice for those interested in health and wellness.
McCall McPherson begins by discussing her personal experiences with wine, noting an initial intolerance that caused hangovers after just one glass. Over time, she discovered that certain wines, particularly from the Piedmont region of Italy, did not have the same negative effects.
While McCall expresses a willingness to explore wines from regions like Puglia and Sicily, she admits to not being fully confident in her knowledge of those wines yet. She also contrasts her experiences with Italian wines to those from Napa Valley, noting that even organic Napa wines often contain glyphosate and do not agree with her.
For those who prefer other forms of alcohol, McCall mentions a preference for tequila mixed with soda and lime. She recommends using an app called Tequila Matchmaker to select quality tequilas based on the presence of additives.
Metformin is commonly used to lower blood sugar levels and has longevity benefits, including reducing cancer risk and improving metabolic function. McCall often prescribes metformin to patients before they start GLP medications to enhance weight loss and metabolic improvement. She also clarifies that metformin can be used alongside GLP medications, with careful monitoring.
GLP medications are discussed in the context of improving fertility, egg quality, and reducing conditions like PCOS. McCall advises stopping GLP medications two months before actively trying to conceive, as there are no formal studies on their use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
While McCall does not treat conditions like SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) and H. pylori directly, she provides basic guidance. She also addresses the duration for which patients should remain on GLP medications, emphasizing the importance of reaching goal weight and monitoring specific lab markers to ensure metabolic health.
Research shows that GLP can improve gut function and reduce inflammation in individuals with IBD. McCall shares positive feedback from patients who have experienced improved gut health while on GLP medications.
LDN is discussed for its benefits in reducing inflammation and improving immune function. McCall explains that LDN works by temporarily blocking opioid receptors, which leads to an increase in endorphin production and modulation of the immune system.
The importance of personalized treatment plans and monitoring for side effects is emphasized. McCall encourages listeners to consider their own health choices thoughtfully and to work with healthcare providers to tailor treatments to their individual needs.
Throughout the episode, McCall McPherson maintains an engaging and conversational tone, sharing personal anecdotes and practical advice while addressing listener questions. The relaxed atmosphere of the podcast, combined with her expertise, creates an informative and enjoyable listening experience for the audience. As the conversation wraps up, McCall expresses gratitude to the listeners and hints at exciting upcoming interviews and topics, creating anticipation for future episodes.
By breaking down the key points discussed in this episode, this blog post aims to provide valuable insights and actionable advice for those interested in health and wellness. Whether you're exploring wine options, considering medications like metformin and GLP, or curious about low-dose naltrexone, the information shared here can guide you in making informed decisions about your health.
