Dhru Purohit Show

• Is Current Thinking Around Cholesterol Outdated? What You Need to Know About Heart Health and The Root Cause of Plaque Build Up with David Feldman

  This episode is brought to you by Levels, BiOptimizers, and Birch Living.  Traditionally, elevated LDL has been directly linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. But today’s guest is on a mission to dig deeper. He’s raising both awareness and funding to explore the true relationship between LDL, ApoB, and heart disease—challenging long-held beliefs in the process. He joins us to share the results of his team’s groundbreaking study. Today on The Dhru Purohit Show, Dhru sits down with Dave Feldman to discuss his team’s landmark study on LDL cholesterol and its implications for cardiovascular health. Dave shares the personal journey that led him to fund this research and what it means for how we approach and treat heart disease. He breaks down the surprising findings on how plaque progression really occurs—and the key questions that still need answers in future studies. Dave also outlines the most effective tests to assess your risk, along with how to interpret your scores based on age. Dave Feldman is a software and platform engineer, entrepreneur, and founder of the Citizen Science Foundation. His life took a radical turn upon seeing his cholesterol skyrocket after adopting a ketogenic diet, and he became obsessed with understanding why this is common with those who are likewise leaner and more metabolically healthy. Through a series of self-experiments and partnering with formal researchers, he has since published the “Lipid Energy Model,” which may explain this phenomenon. In this episode, Dhru and Dave dive into: Dave’s mission and journey to pursue answers (00:30) What mainstream medicine believes about high cholesterol (4:20) The keto and carnivore view on cholesterol (6:00) Dave's perspective and his groundbreaking research (7:45) Why Dave’s research matters and its implications for cardiovascular disease prevention (15:57) The factors that led to starting and releasing the study (18:23) The surprising results of plaque progression (28:42) What the results mean on a broad scale and how to configure the right type of diet (35:32) Appropriate testing and optimal score ranges (45:32) Factors that contribute to plaque progression (53:32) Injury to cells and arterial lining—and what prevents repair (1:00:32) The likely responses to the landmark study (1:23:47) Advice on ApoB based on large-scale metabolic health concerns (1:38:32) Critical takeaways (1:42:22) Where to follow Dave and learn about his upcoming movie (1:45:32) Also mentioned in this episode: Plaque Begets Plaque, Not ApoB, JACC Journals Citizen Science Foundation For more on Dave, follow him on Instagram, Twitter/X, YouTube, his Website, and other platforms, such as Cholesterol Code. This episode is brought to you by Levels, BiOptimizers, and Birch Living. Right now, Levels is offering my listeners an additional 2 FREE months of the Levels annual Membership when you use my link: levels.link/DHRU. Make moves on your metabolic health with Levels today. Go to bioptimizers.com/dhru now and enter promo code DHRU10 to get 10% off any order of Sleep Breakthrough and find out this month’s gift with purchase.  Get 20% off your Birch Living mattress during their Spring Event—just head to birchliving.com/dhru today!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• This Study Shocks Cardiologists: LDL and ApoB May Not Predict Heart Disease Risk in Healthy People with Dr. Nick Norwitz

  This episode is brought to you by LMNT and Lumebox.  The mainstream narrative around LDL cholesterol has long claimed that high LDL is always harmful—no matter the individual or their overall health status. The traditional view holds that elevated LDL levels directly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, regardless of metabolic health. Today’s guest, Dr. Nick Norwitz, shares groundbreaking research that further explains why plaque buildup progresses and how it can lead to heart disease.  Today on The Dhru Purohit Show, Dhru sits down with Dr. Nick Norwitz to explore a groundbreaking study on LDL cholesterol and its implications for cardiovascular health. Dr. Norwitz dives into the role of diet, individual risk factors, and the significance of plaque progression while also addressing lifestyle influences and practical strategies for heart health. He also shares insights on the limitations of current testing methods, the impact of microplastics on cardiovascular health, and the growing gut health crisis. Dhru and Dr. Norwtiz emphasized the need for personalized nutrition, informed decision-making, and a balanced perspective between scientific research and real-world experience. Dr. Nick Norwitz is a researcher, educator, and passionate advocate for metabolic health whose mission is to “Make Metabolic Health Mainstream.” He earned a PhD in Metabolism from the University of Oxford and is now completing his MD at Harvard Medical School. Nick’s drive in this field stems from his personal battle with severe Inflammatory Bowel Disease, which he overcame through a ketogenic diet after conventional treatments failed. His journey has fueled a deep commitment to challenging outdated thinking around health, and he’s known for his infectious curiosity and dedication to teaching. In this episode, Dhru and Dr. Norwitz dive into: Dr. Norwitz’s landmark study (00:41) How the study fits into people’s diets and lifestyles (06:04) Plaque progression in individuals with existing buildup (14:45) Lifestyle factors that contribute to continued plaque progression (16:30) How to assess your personal risk (20:55) Dhru’s personal story and testing journey (30:00) The worst diet and lifestyle habits for heart health (38:27) The impact of carnivore and ketogenic diets on gut health (45:01) Vegetables, fiber, and insights on the omnivore diet (1:02:40) The aspartame study and what it means for humans (1:07:58) Seed oils and their effects on the body (1:23:00) Final thoughts and where to follow Dr. Norwitz (1:34:52) Also mentioned in this episode: Plaque Begets Plaque, Not ApoB, JACC Journals Metabolic Mind YouTube Study from Italy on Microplastics in Cardiovascular Events For more on Dr. Norwitz, follow him on Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Threads, and his Website, and subscribe to his Newsletter. This episode is brought to you by LMNT and Lumebox. Right now, LMNT is offering my listeners a free sample pack with any purchase. Head over to drinkLMNT.com/dhru today. Lumebox is offering my community $260 off their FDA-registered portable Red Light device!  That's over 40% off! Go to thelumebox.com/dhru and get your Red Light device. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  1:38:04
• Want to Maintain Youthful Skin At Any Age? Top Dermatologist and Skin Cancer Expert Shares his Favorite Skin Tips and Tools and Busts Major Myths Around Skin Damage with Dr. Teo Soleymani

  This episode is brought to you by Bon Charge, Pique Life, and Fatty15. When it comes to looking younger, sun exposure, and skin cancer, the research and advice can be overwhelming, leaving many of us unsure of what to believe. With endless skincare products and trends flooding the market, it’s hard to know what’s truly effective, worth the investment, and safe for maintaining a youthful glow. Today’s guest joins us to break it all down and share what really works. Today on The Dhru Purohit Show, Dhru sits down with double board-certified dermatologist and skin cancer and reconstructive surgery specialist Dr. Teo Soleymani to discuss research-backed skin protocols that can improve your skin and reduce your risk of skin cancer. Dr. Soleymani breaks down the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens, what the data really says about sun exposure and skin cancer, and the top therapies for reducing wrinkles, acne scars, and sun damage. He also shares the most cost-effective devices and strategies for achieving a more youthful appearance. Dr. Teo Soleymani is a nationally recognized, double board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs Micrographic and Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon. A Stanford-trained physician and former clinical professor at UCLA, he specializes in the treatment of complex, high-risk skin cancers and sun-damaged, aging skin. He now leads California Dermatology and Mohs Surgery Specialists in Pasadena, CA, and continues to contribute to academic research and innovation in dermatologic surgery. In this episode, Dhru and Dr. Soleymani dive into: Sun exposure and its impact on the skin (01:11) Why traditional dermatologists recommend avoiding sun exposure (04:37) Can sun avoidance and low vitamin D levels be harmful? (13:42) Traditional sunscreen: benefits vs. potential harm (16:18) Physical barriers for skin protection (19:42) How skin color influences sun exposure tolerance (24:29) How to maintain healthy skin and prevent premature aging (27:57) Seed oils and their impact on skin health (34:50) Immune-suppressing conditions and medications (43:00) Tanning and spray sunscreen rankings (47:00) Antioxidants in your diet and key supplements for skin protection (59:50) Screening measures for long-term health and protection (01:10:00) The impact of alcohol on the skin and the dangers of grain-based alcohols (01:17:00) Red light therapy, microneedling, and radiofrequency: what works? (01:21:40) The most effective device for skin health (01:29:00) Cost-effective strategies you can implement immediately (01:36:45) Skin cancer prevention and screening (01:48:00) Also mentioned in this episode: Sun Powder  For more on Dr. Soleymani, follow him on Instagram, LinkedIn, and his Website. This episode is brought to you by Bon Charge, Pique, and Fatty15. Right now, BON CHARGE is offering my community 15% off; just go to boncharge.com/DHRU and use coupon code DHRU to save 15%. Right now, Pique Life is offering 20% off the Radiant Skin Duo plus a free beaker and frother when you go to piquelife.com/dhru. Fatty15 is offering an additional 15% off its 90-day subscription Starter Kit. Go to fatty15.com/dhru and use code DHRU to replenish your C15 levels for long-term health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  1:58:00
• The Nutrient Most of Us are Under-Eating That Boosts Brain Health and Fights Inflammation and Visceral Fat

  This episode is brought to you by Birch Living and Levels. When you think of blood sugar regulation, weight loss, or boosting cognition, fiber may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But this essential nutrient does far more than just relieve constipation. It feeds our gut microbes, keeping them happy and thriving—and in return, they produce anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, immune-supporting metabolites that help us stay healthy, happy, and thriving. Today on The Dhru Purohit Show, we’re bringing you a special compilation episode featuring Dhru’s conversations with top experts on fiber and its powerful benefits for gut and whole-body health. Dr. Will Bulsiewicz breaks down the signs of inadequate fiber in your diet and shares his top four tips for improving bowel movements and incorporating fiber into your daily routine. Dr. Mary Claire Haver explains how optimizing fiber intake can help reduce visceral fat—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Brad Stanfield highlights psyllium husk as one of the most underrated supplements for boosting fiber intake and supporting overall health. Dr. Will Bulsiewicz is an award-winning gastroenterologist and New York Times bestselling author of Fiber Fueled and The Fiber Fueled Cookbook. Dr. Mary Claire Haver is board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and is a Certified Culinary Medicine Specialist.  Dr. Brad Stanfield is a primary care physician hailing from Auckland, New Zealand who has garnered over 200,000 followers on YouTube for his video segments related to longevity-promoting strategies. In this episode, Dhru and his guests dive into: Signs of inadequate fiber in your diet (02:20) Four tips for improving bowel movements (05:20) How beginners can increase fiber intake and manage gas (17:27) Key behaviors that harm gut health (21:37) How fiber supports gut health and the microbiome (29:15) The benefits of eating a diverse range of plant foods (35:07) How fiber helps combat visceral fat (38:43) The optimal daily dose of fiber (40:38) How to increase fiber intake with psyllium husk (44:50) Recommended water intake when using psyllium husk (48:31) Final thoughts (50:09) Also mentioned: Full episode with Dr. Will Bulsiewicz Full episode with Dr. Mary Claire Haver Full episode with Dr. Brad Stanfield This episode is brought to you by Birch Living and Levels. Get 25% off your Birch Living mattress during their Flash Sale—just head to birchliving.com/dhru today! Right now, Levels is offering my listeners an additional 2 FREE months of the Levels annual Membership when you use my link, levels.link/DHRU. Make moves on your metabolic health with Levels today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  50:17
• Is Exercise the Miracle Drug We’ve Been Waiting For? The Number One Way to Strengthen Your Mind and Fight Depression with Dr. Nicholas Fabiano

  This episode is brought to you by BiOptimizers, Cozy Earth, and Fatty15. When we think about treating depression, we rarely consider exercise. Yet emerging research shows it can be a powerful tool for managing mild to moderate depression, and it works well alongside other therapies—including medication. Today’s guest shares the science behind exercise and explores why more practitioners aren’t incorporating it into treatment conversations. Today on The Dhru Purohit Show, Dhru sits down with Dr. Nicholas Fabiano to explore the powerful role of exercise in treating depression. Dr. Fabiano introduces the FITT protocol for prescribing exercise and sheds light on the disconnect between physicians and patients when it comes to exercise recommendations. Dhru and Dr. Fabiano also discuss how research funding can shape treatment perspectives, the benefits of combining medication with lifestyle interventions, and the emerging role of creatine in brain energy and its potential impact on depression. Dr. Fabiano emphasizes why exercise is essential for mental health and advocates for a holistic approach to treating depression—one that includes lifestyle pillars like diet and sleep. Nicholas Fabiano is a psychiatry resident and researcher at the University of Ottawa. Drawing from his personal background in weightlifting and competitive soccer, Nicholas developed a strong interest in the use of exercise as a treatment for mental disorders, particularly depression. His research focuses on the intersection of mental and physical health, with a special emphasis on lifestyle psychiatry—exploring how exercise, diet, and sleep influence mental well-being. In this episode, Dhru and Dr. Fabiano dive into: Exercise can be as effective as therapy in treating depression (00:27) The importance of finding a provider who exercises and understands its benefits (01:57) The impact of exercise on both the brain and body (04:53) The misperception that all patients want quick fixes (11:11) The side effects of medication and how lifestyle interventions can help counter them (19:18) The FITT protocol and how to prescribe it effectively (23:56) Reframing exercise as an intervention that empowers patients (31:54) Heart rate variability, and why doing what you enjoy matters (31:42) The benefits of stacking exercise with creatine (38:33) How to incorporate creatine into your diet (44:24) Exercise recommendations for beginners, family, and friends (45:02) A lifestyle protocol that can actually induce depression (49:33) Advocating for and educating the public on foundational principles (59:06) An entrepreneurial approach to solving the mental health crisis (01:03:21) How Dr. Fabiano became passionate about brain health (01:05:59) His advice for beginners and how to follow his work (01:11:27) Also mentioned in this episode: John Abramson's book - Sickening Try This: Three Super Crazy Facts about Big Pharma Study on BPA in pregnant women  For more on Dr. Fabiano, follow him on Instagram, X/Twitter, LinkedIn, and his Website. This episode is brought to you by BiOptimizers, Cozy Earth, and Fatty15. Go to bioptimizers.com/dhru now and enter promo code DHRU10 to get 10% off any order of Sleep Breakthrough and find out this month’s gift with purchase.  Right now, get 40% off your Cozy Earth sheets. Just head over to cozyearth.com/dhru and use code DHRUP. Fatty15 is offering an additional 15% off its 90-day subscription Starter Kit. Go to fatty15.com/dhru and use code DHRU to replenish your C15 levels for long-term health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  1:14:54

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