In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris takes a deep dive into the latest research on ultra-processed foods, their potential impact on health, what distinguishes ultra-processed foods from minimally-processed and traditionally-processed foods, and why a Nutrition Facts label may not capture everything that matters about a food. He examines research linking higher ultra-processed food consumption with overeating, weight gain, metabolic dysfunction, cardiovascular disease, and other adverse health outcomes, and also explores potential mechanisms, including disruption of the food matrix, changes to the gut microbiome, intestinal barrier dysfunction, inflammation, oxidative stress, food additives, and effects on the gut-brain axis.

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In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser explores what biological age really means and examines the research behind today's most popular longevity claims. He explains how epigenetic clocks and DNA methylation are used to estimate biological aging, why these tests may be less precise for individuals than they appear, and what studies like the CALERIE trial tell us about slowing the aging process. You'll also learn why reversing a biological age number isn't the same as reversing aging, and how meaningful improvements in muscle strength, cognition, metabolic health, and physical function can be achieved at virtually any age. He also offers a practical framework to build a strong foundation of sleep, nutrition, movement, stress management, connection, and purpose before investing in advanced longevity technologies or supplements.

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In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris breaks down the science behind joint pain, osteoarthritis, and cartilage degeneration while challenging one of the most common assumptions about joint health—that glucosamine and chondroitin are the gold standard for protecting cartilage and relieving pain. He explains why current clinical evidence no longer supports those supplements as the best option and instead reviews the clinical evidence supporting three promising ingredients—native type II collagen, natural eggshell membrane, and Boswellia serrata—and discusses how each works through a unique biological pathway to reduce inflammation, preserve cartilage, improve mobility, and support long-term joint function.

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In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser sits down with renowned neurologist and bestselling author Dr. David Perlmutter to discuss the emerging science of microglia—the brain's immune cells—and why they may hold the key to preventing cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. Drawing from his new book, Brain Defenders, Dr. Perlmutter explains how lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise, sleep, metabolic health, and gut health influence whether microglia protect the brain or contribute to chronic inflammation and neurodegeneration. Together, they challenge the outdated notion that dementia is largely predetermined by genetics, highlighting growing evidence that proactive lifestyle interventions can preserve—and even improve—brain function throughout life.

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What if one of the most overlooked risk factors for cognitive decline isn’t in the brain—but in the mouth? In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser explores the emerging science linking oral health to brain health. He examines how chronic gum disease may contribute to cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease through systemic inflammation, direct bacterial migration to the brain, and disruption of the oral-gut-brain axis. Drawing on recent research, Chris explains why periodontal disease should be considered a key factor in dementia prevention, why this conversation remains absent from mainstream care, and practical steps listeners can take to protect both oral and long-term cognitive health.

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In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris takes a deep dive into the science of dietary fiber, fiber supplements, and microbiome health. He explains why the benefits seen in high-fiber diets may come from whole foods rather than isolated fiber supplements, and why aggressively increasing fiber intake can worsen bloating, gas, and gut dysfunction for some people. He explores the latest research on fiber, short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, gut permeability, and microbiome balance while unpacking the limitations of observational nutrition studies. He also shares practical strategies for improving fiber tolerance, supporting digestive health naturally, and choosing safer approaches for sensitive guts.

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The gut-immune axis is one of the most important and most overlooked systems in human health. In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris explains how the gut microbiome, intestinal barrier, and immune system work together to regulate inflammation and protect against disease. Learn how disruptions in gut health, driven by ultra-processed foods, environmental toxins, antibiotics, and chronic stress, can lead to intestinal permeability, chronic immune activation, and a wide range of conditions including autoimmune disease, skin disorders, respiratory illness, and metabolic dysfunction. Chris also breaks down the latest research on key compounds that support gut and immune health, including probiotics, prebiotics, butyrate, polyphenols, colostrum, lactoferrin, and beta glucan. Discover how targeted nutrition and lifestyle strategies can restore gut integrity, improve immune resilience, and address the root cause of chronic illness.

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In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris unpacks the latest science on microplastics. He explores groundbreaking studies linking microplastic accumulation to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, inflammation, and potential neurological impacts, while clarifying what we know—and what we don’t. You’ll learn how microplastics enter the body, why nanoplastics pose a greater risk, and how these particles act as Trojan horses for harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and PFAS. Chris also explains how microplastics may disrupt the gut microbiome, increase oxidative stress, and interfere with key biological systems, and he provides evidence-based strategies to reduce exposure and support your body’s detoxification pathways, from water filtration and food storage to diet, sleep, and targeted supplements.

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In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser explores the growing phenomenon of orthosomnia, a condition driven by the obsessive pursuit of perfect sleep metrics. While devices like the Oura Ring, Whoop, and Apple Watch offer valuable insights, they can also increase anxiety and disrupt the very sleep they aim to improve. Chris breaks down the science behind sleep anxiety, including the role of cortisol and the hyperarousal model of insomnia. He explains why common beliefs—like needing exactly eight hours of sleep—can actually make insomnia worse, and how shifting your mindset is often the most powerful intervention. You’ll also learn why cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia is the gold standard treatment, how to know when sleep tracking has outlived its usefulness, and what actually works for improving sleep long-term.

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In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris explores the science behind GLP-1 medications, including their powerful effects on appetite, weight loss, and cardiometabolic risk. He also uncovers the critical blind spots in the current conversation, including new research on long-term side effects, nutrient deficiencies, muscle loss, and the high rate of weight regain after discontinuation. You’ll learn why these drugs may be effective in the short term but fall short of addressing the root causes of obesity and metabolic dysfunction. Chris also explains who may benefit most from GLP-1 therapy and how to use these medications as part of a comprehensive strategy that includes nutrition, resistance training, and lifestyle interventions.

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For decades, public health guidelines have warned that reducing sodium intake is essential for preventing high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. But a closer look at the scientific evidence reveals a far more complex story. In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris explores the history behind the low-sodium movement and examines the research that shaped modern dietary guidelines. From early animal studies to large international analyses, the data suggests sodium intake follows a J-shaped curve, where both very low and very high intakes may increase cardiovascular risk. Chris explains the essential role sodium plays in the body, how severe sodium restriction can activate hormonal stress responses, and why salt sensitivity, potassium intake, kidney function, and lifestyle factors are critical in determining the right approach.

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