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I am so glad you're here today because we are diving into a topic I am truly passionate about: arthritis.

Many people believe arthritis is just an inevitable part of aging, but it actually affects people of all ages and is widely misunderstood and mismanaged. As a physical therapist for over 20 years and a functional nutritionist, I look at the "whole person"—your movement, food, lifestyle, stress, and sleep. Because in the world of joint health, everything is connected.

In this episode, we break down:

• The Types: Understanding the differences between Osteoarthritis (mechanical and biochemical), Rheumatoid Arthritis (autoimmune/systemic), and Psoriatic Arthritis.
• The Root Causes: Why factors like dehydration, poor mechanics, obesity, and gut health matter more than the date on your birth certificate.
• Prevention & Management: Why "motion is lotion" and how to use strength training and anti-inflammatory living to reclaim your function.
• The Kitchen Pharmacy: A deep dive into "SMASH" fish, colorful polyphenols, and the foods that either fuel or fight the fire of inflammation.

Whether you are looking to prevent joint pain or are currently managing a diagnosis, remember: your refrigerator should be your medicine cabinet. Grab a cup of tea, and let’s get into it!

"It's not magic, it's biology. Your body wants to feel good—give it a chance."

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-426-2543

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com

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Today we're diving into a condition that affects more than 15 million Americans and remains one of the most underdiagnosed chronic diseases: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Once labeled a "smoker's disease," COPD is now understood as a complex inflammatory condition, and according to the WHO and ALA, it's the 4th leading cause of death worldwide and 6th in the U.S.

The new GOLD 2026 guidelines shift the conversation toward disease activity, emphasizing inflammation, early detection, and strategies to move patients into a low‑disease‑activity state. Because at its core, COPD is not just about damaged lungs, it's about systemic inflammation and the body's ability to exchange the breath of life.

We break down the why and the how: from emphysema and chronic bronchitis to the leading causes, tobacco, vaping, environmental exposures, and the often‑missed genetic condition Alpha‑1 antitrypsin deficiency. We explore the ripple effects of COPD, including hyperinflation, CO₂ retention, cardiovascular risk, and the emotional toll of "air hunger."

You'll learn the essentials of prevention, physical therapy, pulmonary rehab, and lifestyle strategies that truly move the needle. From anti‑inflammatory nutrition and Mediterranean‑style eating to the surprising benefits of higher‑fat, lower‑carb patterns for CO₂ reduction, we cover the tools that help lungs and lives function better.

References

1. Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD). (2026). Global Strategy for the Diagnosis, Management, and Prevention of COPD.
2. U.S. Pharmacist. (2025). Updated GOLD 2026 Report Broadens COPD Treatment Guidance.
3. American Lung Association. (2026). Nutrition and COPD: Guidelines for Lung Health.
4. Chest Physician. (2026). The link between exacerbations and cardiovascular health.
5. Mayo Clinic. (2024). COPD: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Lifestyle Management.
6. www.copdfoundation.org

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-426-2543

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com

Send a text

Welcome back, California! In today’s episode, we dive into a startling statistic: 60% of Americans take at least one prescription drug. While these medications manage chronic conditions, they often create a "secondary health challenge"—nutrient depletion.

When we take a pill, it can "cleave" or block vital vitamins and minerals, leading to side effects that are often misdiagnosed as new medical issues. Linda discusses how to move from reactive to proactive by understanding Drug-Induced Nutrient Depletion (DIND).

Key Highlights:

• Common Culprits: We break down how Statins deplete CoQ10, Metformin drains B12 and Folate, and PPIs/Antacids strip the body of Magnesium, Calcium, and Zinc.
• Proactive Mitigation: Learn why timing matters (like taking drowsy meds at night) and why "Motion is Lotion" for drug-induced stiffness.
• The "Medicine Cabinet" Reimagined: Why your refrigerator is your best defense. We list nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, fatty fish, and seeds to replenish what meds take away.
• Expert Advice: Why standard labs might miss these gaps and why you must consult your healthcare team before "stacking" supplements.

Closing Thought: "The Lord is faithful; He will establish you and guard you." — 2 Thessalonians 3:3.

https://www.rupahealth.com/post/10-commonly-prescribed-medications-the-nutrients-they-deplete

https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/multimedia/table/some-drugs-and-medications-that-cause-vitamin-deficiency

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-426-2543

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com