Advertise on podcast: Take Charge of Your Health

On this episode of Take Charge of Your Health, host Corinne Furnari and co-host Carol Petersen welcome Dr. John Trowbridge to discuss Candida overgrowth, yeast-related health concerns and its potential impact on overall health.Dr. Trowbridge explains that Candida albicans is a yeast naturally present in the body that can become problematic when the body's microbial balance is disrupted. Factors such as antibiotic use, dietary habits and a weakened immune system may contribute to yeast overgrowth.The discussion explores the possible connection between Candida and various chronic health concerns, including digestive disturbances, sinus infections, inflammation, skin conditions and immune dysfunction. Dr. Trowbridge suggests that Candida may release toxins and antigens that contribute to inflammatory responses and place additional stress on the immune system.Another important topic is Candida's ability to form protective biofilms, which can make certain infections more difficult to treat. Dr. Trowbridge also discusses the possibility of yeast-related conditions being overlooked or misdiagnosed, emphasizing the importance of investigating underlying factors when dealing with persistent health concerns.The episode also addresses the Herxheimer or "die-off" reaction, a term used to describe symptoms that some practitioners attribute to the breakdown of microorganisms during treatment. However, this explanation has not been firmly established for Candida infections.Throughout the conversation, the guests emphasize the importance of nutrition, reducing excess sugar and refined carbohydrates, supporting digestive health and exploring individualized approaches to wellness. https://corinnehealth.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/ https://www.healthchoicesnow.com/

In this episode, Carol Petersen and Corinne Furnari sit down with Dr. Michael Platt, author of Adrenaline Dominance, to explore his perspective on how excess adrenaline may play a role in a variety of often misunderstood symptoms and conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, fibromyalgia, fatigue and sleep disturbances. Dr. Platt explains how adrenaline, a hormone designed to support the body during stress, can become problematic when it is produced too frequently. He discusses its relationship with blood sugar, metabolism and cellular energy, and how the body may begin converting protein into glucose in an effort to maintain a steady fuel supply. The conversation also explores nutritional strategies Dr. Platt recommends to help support more stable energy, including eating smaller meals throughout the day and incorporating green vegetables and healthy fats such as coconut oil. Dr. Platt also discusses the role of progesterone in his approach, including his belief that progesterone may help moderate the effects of excess adrenaline and support insulin balance. Throughout the episode, Carol, Corinne and Dr. Platt examine the importance of looking beyond individual symptoms and considering the hormonal and metabolic factors that may be contributing to how a person feels. https://corinnehealth.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/ https://plattwellness.com/

In this episode of Take Charge of Your Health, hosts Corinne Furnari and Carol Petersen take a closer look at one of the most debated topics in nutrition: how much protein we actually need. They explore why recommendations can vary so widely, from basic government guidelines designed to prevent deficiency to the much higher amounts commonly promoted for athletes, muscle building, and healthy aging. The discussion also examines what happens inside the body when protein intake increases. The hosts consider the role of protein in maintaining muscle, supporting recovery, and preserving strength as we age, while also raising concerns about whether excessive intake may place additional demands on the kidneys in certain individuals. They discuss mTOR, a cellular pathway stimulated by nutrients such as protein, and how constantly activating growth signals may potentially interfere with processes such as autophagy, the body’s cellular recycling and cleanup system. Another focus is the difference between animal- and plant-based protein sources. The program looks beyond protein quantity to consider amino-acid profiles and nutrients that may be more difficult to obtain from exclusively plant-based diets, including vitamin B12 and creatine. The hosts also discuss why food quality, nutrient density, and the overall composition of the diet may be just as important as simply reaching a particular number of grams of protein each day. Ultimately, the episode challenges the idea that there is one ideal protein target for everyone. Age, activity level, muscle mass, health status, dietary pattern, and longevity goals can all influence individual needs. Rather than treating protein recommendations as universal, the discussion encourages listeners to consider their own circumstances and find a balanced approach that supports both metabolic health and long-term wellness. https://corinnehealth.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/

Hormone replacement therapy has been surrounded by fear, confusion, and conflicting information for more than two decades. In this episode of Take Charge of Your Health, Corinne Furnari and Carol Petersen revisit the conversation around HRT and explore how one major study changed the way millions of women viewed hormone therapy. The discussion looks back at the 2002 Women’s Health Initiative and the lasting impact it had on women’s health. Corinne and Carol explain the differences between older forms of hormone therapy and today’s use of bioidentical hormones, while addressing why so many women became hesitant to consider treatment during perimenopause and menopause. They also examine the important roles of estrogen and progesterone throughout the body, from bone strength and cardiovascular health to mood, sleep, cognition, energy, and overall well-being. The conversation highlights how hormonal changes can affect far more than hot flashes and why symptoms should be looked at as part of a much bigger picture. Listener calls bring the discussion into real-life situations, with Corinne and Carol emphasizing the importance of individualized care, thorough assessment, appropriate testing, and treatment plans based on each woman’s symptoms, history, and personal health needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. This episode encourages women to become informed, ask questions, and take an active role in understanding their hormonal health. The overall message is one of education and empowerment: women deserve clear information, personalized care, and the opportunity to make informed decisions that support their health and quality of life through every stage of life. https://corinnehealth.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/

In this episode of Take Charge of Your Health, hosts Corinne Furnari and Carol Petersen explore how blood glucose and insulin affect weight, appetite, energy, and overall metabolic health. They explain that problems with blood sugar and insulin can develop long before a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and discuss why understanding these metabolic signals may help people make more informed decisions about their health. The hosts share 10 practical “glucose hacks” designed to help reduce blood sugar and insulin spikes throughout the day. Strategies include changing the order in which foods are eaten, starting meals with vegetables or fiber, eating protein and healthy fats before carbohydrates, choosing a savory breakfast instead of a sugary one, and pairing carbohydrates with protein, fiber, or fat. They also discuss how simple habits such as movement after meals can help the body manage glucose more effectively. A major focus is insulin resistance and the role chronically elevated insulin may play in increased hunger, fat storage, energy crashes, and difficulty losing weight. The conversation also explores GLP-1, a naturally occurring gut hormone that helps regulate blood sugar, slows digestion, reduces appetite, and promotes feelings of fullness. Corine and Carol discuss dietary and lifestyle choices that may help support the body’s natural GLP-1 response. The discussion then turns to GLP-1 medications used for diabetes and weight loss, including their benefits and potential side effects. The hosts raise questions about digestive symptoms, nutritional concerns, loss of lean muscle during rapid weight loss, and what can happen when these medications are discontinued. Listener calls add real-world perspectives on diabetes management, weight-loss medications, and the use of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) to better understand individual blood sugar responses. Overall, the episode encourages listeners to look beyond simply avoiding sugar and consider the larger relationship between food choices, glucose, insulin, appetite hormones, movement, and metabolic health. The discussion emphasizes practical, everyday strategies that may help create steadier blood sugar, improve satiety and energy, and support better metabolic health over the long term. https://corinnehealth.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/

This episode explores how concerns about the safety of our food supply are far from new. Hosts Corinne Furnari and Carol Petersen look back at the groundbreaking work of Dr. Harvey Wiley and his famous “Poison Squad,” along with the public impact of The Jungle, which helped expose dangerous practices in the food industry and ultimately contributed to the creation of America’s first federal food safety laws. The conversation then shifts to the modern food system and the growing concerns surrounding genetically modified organisms (GMOs), synthetic additives, chemical exposure, and emerging food technologies. The hosts question whether today’s regulatory system provides enough long-term safety testing and transparency before new ingredients and technologies become part of the food supply. Listeners also join the discussion, raising concerns about corporate accountability, contamination affecting organic farms, food labeling, and consumers’ ability to know exactly what they are buying and feeding their families. The episode highlights the value of supporting local farmers and farmers’ markets while examining how difficult it can be for consumers to navigate an increasingly complex food system. Ultimately, The Poison on Our Plate is a conversation about transparency, informed choice, and consumer advocacy—and why understanding where our food comes from may be just as important today as it was more than a century ago. https://corinnehealth.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/

The radio broadcast features clinical nutritionist Corinne Furnari and pharmacist Carol Petersen exploring the history and evolution of food safety regulations in North America. They explain how public outrage over unsanitary meatpacking practices and the widespread use of dangerous chemical additives led to the creation of the Pure Food and Drug Act, establishing important protections for consumers. The discussion then shifts to modern concerns surrounding genetically modified organisms (GMOs), synthetic food coatings, and highly engineered processed foods that some critics argue have advanced more rapidly than regulatory oversight. Callers raise questions about corporate accountability, the unintended contamination of organic crops, and the growing challenge of accessing affordable, minimally processed foods. Throughout the broadcast, the hosts emphasize the importance of informed consumer choices, stronger transparency in food production, and supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture as practical ways to promote a healthier food system. The conversation also highlights the role consumers can play in shaping the future of the food industry through education and purchasing decisions. The hosts encourage listeners to carefully read ingredient labels, understand where their food comes from, and support producers who prioritize sustainable farming and responsible agricultural practices. While acknowledging that modern food technology has contributed to increased food availability and longer shelf life, they stress that continued research, transparent regulation, and public awareness are essential to balancing innovation with long-term health and environmental stewardship. https://corinnehealth.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/

This episode explores how the modern food system may be contributing to the rise in chronic disease. Clinical nutritionist Corinne Furnari and pharmacist Carol Petersen discuss the widespread prevalence of ultra-processed foods, explaining how many are designed to be highly palatable, inexpensive, and convenient, while often being lower in nutritional value. They examine how these foods may affect appetite regulation, metabolic health, and gut function, and discuss concerns about agricultural practices such as pesticide use and antibiotics in livestock. The conversation also covers the history of food production, including how selective breeding and industrial farming have changed the nutritional quality of many foods over time. The hosts also discuss concerns about chemical residues on produce and offer practical strategies for reducing potential exposure, such as thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables with baking soda or ozone-treated water. While acknowledging that convenience has transformed the way people eat, the hosts encourage listeners to look beyond food marketing and nutrition labels to better understand what they're consuming. They emphasize that small, consistent changes—such as cooking more meals at home, reading ingredient lists, choosing seasonal whole foods, and limiting ultra-processed products—can have a meaningful impact on overall health. Rather than promoting fear, the discussion focuses on consumer education and informed decision-making, highlighting that improving diet quality is one of the most effective ways to support metabolic health, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of chronic disease. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to take control of their health by making informed food choices and prioritizing whole, nutrient-dense foods whenever possible. https://corinnehealth.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/

In this discussion, clinical nutritionist Corinne Furnari and pharmacist Carol Petersen explore the often-overlooked role of testosterone in women's health. They explain that, although commonly associated with men, testosterone is an essential hormone for women, influencing energy, mental clarity, libido, muscle strength, bone density, urinary tract health, and overall well-being. Drawing from clinical experience, the speakers describe patients who reported significant improvements in vitality, mood, cognitive function, and sexual health after addressing testosterone deficiencies. They also question the use of conventional laboratory reference ranges, suggesting that "normal" hormone levels may not always reflect what is optimal for long-term health and quality of life. The conversation contrasts bioidentical hormone therapy with synthetic hormone formulations, discussing potential advantages while emphasizing the importance of individualized treatment. Additional strategies, including lifestyle modifications and herbal supports such as ashwagandha, are presented as complementary approaches for managing symptoms associated with aging, hormonal decline, and chronic pain. Overall, the discussion advocates for a personalized approach to hormone optimization, encouraging women experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance to work with knowledgeable healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate evaluation and treatment plan. https://corinnehealth.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/

In this episode of Take Charge of your Health Corinne Furnari and Carol Petersen invite neurologist Dr. Dale Bredesen to present a new perspective on Alzheimer's disease, arguing that it is not an inevitable, irreversible condition driven solely by amyloid plaques and tau proteins. Instead, he describes cognitive decline as the result of multiple interconnected biological imbalances—including chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, nutrient deficiencies, toxin exposure, hormonal changes, poor sleep, and metabolic dysfunction. Dr. Bredesen explains his ReCODE (Reversal of Cognitive Decline) protocol, a precision medicine approach that uses comprehensive biomarker testing to identify each individual's unique contributors to cognitive impairment. Rather than treating Alzheimer's with a single medication, the protocol aims to optimize dozens of factors simultaneously through personalized nutrition, targeted supplementation, exercise, restorative sleep, stress reduction, detoxification, and metabolic health. The discussion emphasizes that early detection is critical. According to Dr. Bredesen, identifying and correcting these underlying imbalances before significant brain damage occurs may help prevent—or in some cases improve—cognitive decline. He concludes that Alzheimer's should increasingly be viewed as a complex, multifactorial disease that may be preventable and, in selected patients, potentially reversible with a comprehensive, individualized treatment strategy. https://corinnehealth.com/ https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/ https://www.apollohealthco.com/dr-bredesen/

In this episode of Take Charge of Your Health, Corinne Furnari and Carol Petersen invite back to the show independent researcher Jeff Bowles explores his theory that some modern chronic illnesses may be linked to ancient evolutionary survival mechanisms triggered by what he calls the “winter gene.” He proposes that low vitamin D3 levels may signal the body to enter a pseudo-hibernation state, potentially contributing to metabolic changes associated with obesity, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. Bowles discusses the role of vitamin D3, along with important cofactors such as magnesium and vitamin K2, in supporting healthy gene expression and metabolic function. The conversation also examines geographic patterns in disease prevalence, the relationship between sunlight exposure and health, and theories surrounding the evolutionary role of traits associated with conditions such as schizophrenia and ADHD. The episode ultimately explores the idea that optimizing nutrient levels may influence DNA methylation and gene expression, potentially helping the body shift away from ancient survival responses that may no longer be beneficial in modern life. https://corinnehealth.com/⁠ ⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/⁠ ⁠https://jefftbowles.com/

In today's episode of Take Charge of Your Health, clinical nutritionist Corinne Furnari is joined by pharmacist Carol Petersen for an eye-opening discussion inspired by the book The Medicalization of Motherhood. Together, they explore how many normal stages of a woman's life—from puberty and fertility to pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause—have increasingly become medicalized, often leading women toward lifelong pharmaceutical interventions rather than supporting the body's natural physiology. The conversation begins with the common practice of prescribing birth control pills to young girls, not only for contraception but also for concerns such as acne, irregular cycles, and painful periods. The hosts explain how oral contraceptives can deplete essential nutrients, including B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, selenium, and folate, while masking underlying hormonal imbalances instead of addressing their root causes. Corinne and Carol also discuss how modern technology and medical practices may unintentionally distance women from trusting their own bodies. They question the growing reliance on fertility tracking apps, routine medical monitoring, and frequent interventions, encouraging women to become more aware of their natural fertility signs and hormonal rhythms. The discussion then turns to pregnancy and childbirth, examining common interventions such as labor inductions with Pitocin, continuous monitoring, epidurals, and restrictive birthing positions. The hosts suggest that while these procedures can be lifesaving and medically necessary in certain situations, their routine use without clear medical indications may contribute to longer labors, increased complications, and a higher likelihood of cesarean deliveries. Throughout the program, Corinne and Carol emphasize the importance of informed consent, individualized care, and nutritional support before, during, and after pregnancy. They encourage women to ask questions, understand the benefits and risks of medical interventions, and work with healthcare providers who respect both evidence-based medicine and the body's innate ability to function as designed. The episode concludes with a call for women to reclaim confidence in their own bodies, prioritize nutrition and education, and recognize that while modern medicine has an invaluable role when complications arise, many aspects of women's health can be supported through a more holistic, preventive approach that promotes long-term wellness rather than lifelong dependence on medication. https://corinnehealth.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/

In this episode of Take Charge of Your Health, clinical nutritionist Corinne Furnari is joined by Dr. Moshe Dekel while regular co-host Carol Petersen is away. Together, they discuss the foundational elements of a healthy immune system and the role that nutrition, lifestyle habits, and environmental factors play in overall wellness. The conversation highlights the importance of the gut microbiome, explaining how digestive health influences immune function and the body's ability to respond to illness. The speakers also explore the significance of key nutrients, including vitamins D, A, and C, and their role in maintaining normal immune function. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the value of prevention and the benefits of supporting the body's natural defenses through healthy daily practices. In addition to nutrition and lifestyle strategies, Corinne and Dr. Dekel review several complementary therapies commonly used in integrative medicine, including iodine supplementation, ozone therapy, and hydrogen peroxide nebulization. They share perspectives on how these approaches may be incorporated into a broader wellness plan and discuss the importance of having practical tools available when addressing acute health concerns. The episode encourages listeners to take an active role in their health by understanding the factors that influence immunity and by adopting habits that support long-term wellness, vitality, and overall quality of life. https://corinnehealth.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/ https://drdekel.com/

This insightful radio broadcast features health experts Corinne Furnari and Carol Petersen discussing a comprehensive approach to osteoporosis prevention and bone health. They explain that strong bones depend on more than just calcium, emphasizing the critical role of collagen, protein, hormonal balance, and key nutrients such as vitamin K2 and magnesium. The discussion explores how hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, influence bone remodeling and overall skeletal health. The hosts also examine common osteoporosis treatments and medications, offering perspectives on how certain interventions may affect the body's natural bone-building processes. Through clinical experiences and listener questions, the program highlights the potential benefits of targeted nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and a broader understanding of bone metabolism. The experts encourage looking beyond bone density alone, suggesting that newer assessment tools may provide additional insight into active bone regeneration and overall bone quality. Overall, the broadcast promotes a holistic, multifaceted approach to maintaining and improving bone health, focusing on nutrition, hormonal health, lifestyle habits, and informed decision-making. ⁠https://corinnehealth.com/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/

In this insightful radio interview, nutritionist Corinne Furnari and pharmacist Carol Petersen speak with Dr. Ginger Savely about her extensive experience treating patients with complex tick-borne illnesses. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience, Dr. Savely discusses the challenges of diagnosing Lyme disease and Morgellons disease, emphasizing the importance of clinical assessment when laboratory testing may be inconclusive or unreliable. The conversation explores the ongoing controversy surrounding Morgellons disease—a condition characterized by persistent skin lesions and the presence of unusual colored fibers or filaments—which many patients report being dismissed or misunderstood by conventional medicine. Dr. Savely shares her perspective on the condition, advocating for compassionate, patient-centered care and a more comprehensive approach to diagnosis. Listeners are introduced to a variety of treatment strategies, including targeted antibiotic therapies, herbal support such as cat’s claw, nutritional interventions, and anti-inflammatory dietary modifications designed to support immune function and overall health. The discussion underscores the importance of individualized care and empowers patients to become informed advocates for their own well-being. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Lyme disease, Morgellons disease, and integrative approaches to managing chronic tick-borne infections. https://corinnehealth.com/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://thewellnessbydesignproject.com/ https://gingersavely.com/