Dr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your Health

Available Episodes

5 of 1080

Cocoa Extract Supplement Reduces Key Marker of Inflammation and Aging, Study Finds
A new clinical analysis based on the COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS) found that older adults taking a daily cocoa extract supplement saw an 8.4% annual drop in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), a key marker of chronic inflammation The supplement provided 500 milligrams of cocoa flavanols daily, including 80 milligrams of (-)-epicatechin, which is the same bioactive compound found naturally in cacao Researchers said this anti-inflammatory effect may help explain a 27% lower risk of cardiovascular mortality previously observed in the larger COSMOS trial Taking a cocoa flavanol supplement appears to support vascular and immune health by calming NF-κB signaling and improving endothelial function Unlike dark chocolate, standardized cocoa extract supplements are free of sugar and fat, delivering clinically studied doses in capsule form
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7:26
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7:26
Understanding Butyrate — The Key to Optimal Health and Well-Being
Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid produced by gut bacteria when they ferment fiber, serving as the primary energy source for colon cells and maintaining gut barrier strength Healthy butyrate levels support weight management, blood sugar control, and brain health, with studies linking butyrate-producing bacteria to reduced Alzheimer's risk and lower cancer risk A diverse diet rich in various fiber sources, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, promotes butyrate production, but increases should be gradual if your gut health is compromised The gut barrier weakens with insufficient butyrate, allowing undigested food, bacteria, and toxins to enter your bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation and widespread health problems Gradually increasing fiber intake and reducing mitochondrial toxins for increased cellular energy supports gut health and beneficial gut microbes, enhancing butyrate production and overall health
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7:46
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7:46
Exercise Rewires Your Biology to Improve Energy and Metabolic Health
Exercise switches on waves of genes, proteins and metabolites that boost energy production, repair tissues and stabilize blood sugar, helping you feel more focused and resilient Endurance and strength training activate different molecular pathways, allowing you to choose routines that match your goals for stamina, fat burning or metabolic control Movement improves the signals your bloodstream uses to coordinate immunity, inflammation and stress responses, which supports steadier moods and better overall health Your muscles release tiny molecular "packages" during activity that influence distant organs like your brain and liver, creating whole-body benefits you can't get from sitting still Short, consistent bouts of movement throughout the day reinforce healthier cellular signaling, making it easier to maintain energy, manage weight and stay metabolically flexible
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6:35
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6:35
The Immunomodulatory and Therapeutic Effects of Ginseng
Ginseng has been prized for centuries as an "all-healing" root, and modern science now confirms its ability to restore energy, sharpen focus, and strengthen immunity In just 30 days, daily ginseng use helped 85% of young adults improve energy, mood, and mental clarity, showing how quickly it can shift you out of a low-functioning state Large-scale reviews link ginseng to better stamina, reduced fatigue, improved metabolic markers, fewer menopausal symptoms, enhanced sexual function, and stronger lung defenses Ginseng calms harmful inflammation that drives gut issues, liver disease, eczema, sepsis, and even lung injury, offering one natural approach that works across many conditions Red and black ginseng, along with fermented or liposomal forms, deliver stronger compounds your body absorbs more easily, making your results faster and more noticeable
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8:10
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8:10
Creativity Can Be a 'Fountain of Youth' for Your Brain
Engaging in creative activities like music, dance, art, or gaming helps your brain stay up to seven years biologically younger than your actual age Even short periods of creative learning, such as 30 hours of focused practice, improve brain function and reduce biological brain age by about three years Creativity strengthens communication between brain regions responsible for attention, coordination, and problem-solving, helping maintain clarity and focus as you age You don't need to be an artist to benefit — everyday creative choices like journaling, cooking intuitively, or designing your space keep your brain flexible and resilient Regular creative engagement supports better mood, stronger memory, and faster thinking, offering one of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to preserve long-term brain health
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7:34
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7:34