The Health Upgrade Podcast

In this episode, I dive into the world of cold plunges, breaking down the science, the hype, and what really matters for your health. We discuss the latest research on cold exposure, including its impact on stress, recovery, resilience, and neurochemistry. But the key takeaway? It’s not just about how cold the water is! A big part of the benefits comes from how you breathe during the process. I highlight when cold immersion can be helpful and who needs to exercise caution or avoid it altogether. There’s special emphasis on individual capacity, differences between men and women, and practical ways to get the benefits without going to extremes. For anyone considering cold plunges or cold showers, it’s essential to listen to your body and focus on breathing, not just temperature. Loved this episode or know someone curious about cold plunges? Share it with a friend who could benefit from understanding the real science behind this health trend! If you want more tips and want to join our community, check out healthupgraded.com. Don’t forget to follow so you never miss an episode that could help you upgrade your health! Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Dana Johnson, a leading expert in occupational therapy and whole-body apraxia. Together, we explore the often-misunderstood world of autism, focusing on the challenges of motor planning, sensory processing, and the brain-body disconnect that affects so many individuals and their families. Dr. Dana Johnson shares her journey into the field, highlighting the importance of understanding apraxia beyond speech, and shines light on how intentional movement, regulation, and small lifestyle changes can significantly improve outcomes for people with autism. The conversation also covers the roles of gut health, mitochondrial function, and parental co-regulation, offering real-world strategies and hope for families facing these daily struggles. If you know someone impacted by autism or are seeking approachable, science-backed strategies to help loved ones, this episode is a must-listen. Don’t forget to share it with someone who would benefit. Let’s build a more supportive and informed community together! Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib JP Errico Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa Dr. Dana Johnson Website: https://drdanajohnson.com/

In this special "Ask Us Anything" episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, I am joined by Valerie Driscoll and Sara Tate to answer questions from our Health Upgraded community. The panel dives into a question about anxiety medication and its impact on heart rate and HRV, providing insights on the physiological and biochemical effects of tricyclic antidepressants. Throughout the episode, Sara shares valuable nutrition strategies, emphasizing the importance of a plant-forward, fiber-rich diet and how the gut-brain connection influences mental health. Valerie offers practical mindfulness tools and highlights the importance of bringing awareness to the present moment as a means of managing anxiety and depression. If you found this discussion helpful or know someone who could benefit from it, don’t forget to share this episode! To get your questions answered in future episodes, join the Health Upgraded community at healthupgraded.com and be part of the conversation. Upgrade your health journey with us—one question at a time! Learn about the community at www.healthupgraded.com Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

In this episode, we sit down with neurologist Dr. David Perlmutter to explore the fascinating science behind optimal brain health. We dive deep into topics from microglial cells and immunometabolism to the importance of addressing root causes like lifestyle and diet for preventing neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. David Perlmutter shares his journey into integrative neurology, emphasizing how metabolic health, inflammation, and stress impact brain function. The conversation covers practical insights on how dietary choices, exercise, sleep, and stress management can maintain cognitive vitality and longevity. Groundbreaking concepts like biological aging, mitochondrial health, and the latest research on treatments and prevention round out an empowering and thought-provoking discussion. Ready to take control of your brain's future? Listen in, share this episode with three friends, and start applying these empowering insights to upgrade your health. Don’t forget to check out Dr. Perlmutter’s new book, Brain Defenders, for deeper guidance. Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib JP Errico Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa Dr. David Perlmutter Website: https://drperlmutter.com/ Books: https://drperlmutter.com/books/

In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, I dive into the common everyday habits that quietly sabotage your vagus nerve health. While many people try to add practices like cold plunges and breathwork, I explain why removing certain negative behaviors may be even more powerful for optimizing your nervous system. I explore the top seven habits that can keep you stuck in a sympathetic, stressed state: alcohol consumption, late-night eating, sedentary living, evening screen time, unhealthy stress coping, mouth and upper chest breathing, and chronic sleep debt or irregular sleep timing. I break down the science behind how each habit undermines vagus nerve function and share easy, practical steps to start shifting towards better health right away. If you’re ready to feel your best, here’s my challenge for you: pick one sabotaging habit from the list and subtract it for just a week. Notice what happens to your heart rate variability and overall well-being. Share your experiences with me, and let’s keep the conversation going toward a healthier, more balanced you! Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Sabine Hazan, a pioneering gastroenterologist and one of the world's leading voices in microbiome research. Together, we explore the incredible impact of gut health on overall well-being and discuss her groundbreaking work in microbiome testing, fecal microbiota transplants, and the vital role of Bifidobacteria in human health. Dr. Hazan shares her remarkable journey, from challenging conventional thinking to becoming a global leader in microbiome science. Along the way, we uncover how the gut microbiome may influence conditions such as autism, Alzheimer's disease, and immune resilience, while also examining the effects of antibiotics, modern diets, and other everyday factors that shape our gut ecosystem. We also take a closer look at the limitations of current microbiome testing, the misconceptions surrounding popular probiotic products, and why personalized, evidence-based approaches, rather than one-size-fits-all solutions, represent the future of gut health. Dr. Hazan explains that restoring a healthy microbiome isn't simply about adding beneficial bacteria. It also requires improving our environment, daily habits, nutrition, and even the way we support children's health from an early age. If you enjoyed this conversation and were inspired by Dr. Hazan's mission to map the world's microbiome and advance the future of human health, please share this episode with someone who could benefit from it. Every conversation helps raise awareness and supports the research that has the potential to transform all of our health. Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib JP Errico Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa Dr. Sabine Hazan Website: https://sabinehazanmd.com/

In this episode, I answer one of the questions I get asked the most: "What is a good HRV, and why isn't mine improving?" FREE LIVE VAGUS NERVE WORKSHOP - "DECODE AND RESET" AUGUST 25, 2026 @ 7:30pm EST CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FREE! The truth is, there isn't one perfect HRV number that everyone should aim for. Instead of worrying about a single reading, it's much more helpful to look at how your HRV changes over time. Your wearable device is there to give you useful information about your body, not to judge your health. Many everyday factors can affect your numbers, and understanding the bigger picture is what really matters. I also talk about the key health metrics worth paying attention to, including HRV, sleep score, resilience, daily activity, and recovery index. You'll learn what these numbers actually mean and how to use them to make better decisions for your health without becoming overwhelmed by the data. If you'd like to better understand your HRV and wellness data, join the Health Upgraded team and me for our free interactive workshop on August 25 at 7:30 PM Eastern. Bring your own data, learn how to interpret it, and leave with a personalized plan to improve your health and resilience. Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Efrat Lemandre, a nurse practitioner and medical disruptor, to explore the challenges and myths surrounding the medical system. Together, we discuss why medical gaslighting persists, the impact of professional indoctrination, and how even well-intentioned doctors may not always have all the answers. Dr. Lamandre shares her personal journey from conventional medicine to functional and integrative practices, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and humility in healthcare. We debate the roles and responsibilities of both patients and practitioners, tackling big questions like when to trust medical advice and how to advocate for your health. Our conversation touches on the limits of the current system, the need for patients to assemble their own healthcare teams, and the importance of education and self-advocacy more than ever. If you enjoyed our spirited exchange on medical gaslighting and how to play a proactive role in your health journey, please share this episode with friends and colleagues, especially anyone ready to challenge the status quo or advocate for change in healthcare. Your voice and curiosity matter! Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib JP Errico Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa Dr. Efrat Lemandre Website: https://www.drefratlamandre.com/

In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, Dr. Cindy Howard shares what it's like to experience healthcare from both sides, as a doctor and as a patient. She opens up about her journey of recognizing the signs of Hodgkin's lymphoma in herself and navigating treatment while drawing on her years of experience in functional medicine. Together, we discuss the emotions that come with receiving a life-changing diagnosis, the importance of self-care, and why personalized healthcare can make a real difference. We also explore gut health, environmental toxins, genetic testing, and how AI is changing the way patients can advocate for their own health. Dr. Howard explains why asking questions, setting boundaries, and working with healthcare providers who listen and collaborate are essential parts of achieving better health outcomes. If you or someone you love is lost in the healthcare maze or facing a critical diagnosis, this episode is for you. Listen in, share the episode with a friend, and empower yourself to be an informed, proactive participant in your own health journey! Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib JP Errico Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa Dr. Cindy Howard Website: https://www.innovativehwc.com/

In this episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast, I talk with Waldi Hoon, the founder of yōjō, about her journey into the world of vagus nerve health. She shares how her background in content creation, along with her family's experience with chronic pain, inspired her to help others improve their health using science-based solutions. We also discuss how modern life, from constant stress to information overload and unhealthy habits, affects our nervous system. Waldi explains why building resilience, creating simple daily routines, and finding the right self-care practices can make a big difference. We also explore how YoJo's technology and community help people make these healthy habits part of everyday life. If you're looking for practical ways to reduce stress, improve your wellbeing, and learn more about nervous system health, this episode is for you. If you find it helpful, share it with three friends who could benefit too. Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib Waldi Hoon LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/waldihoon/ Website: https://www.yojo.health/

In this episode, I explore the connection between your light environment, the vagus nerve, and heart rate variability (HRV). Drawing on a 2025 systematic review of 25 studies, I explain how both the timing and quality of light exposure can influence nervous system function and overall recovery. I discuss how morning exposure to bright, blue-enriched light helps regulate your circadian rhythm and support healthy biological rhythms, even if it may cause a temporary reduction in HRV. In contrast, warmer, dimmer light in the evening can help promote relaxation and prepare the body for restful sleep. I also share practical strategies for optimizing your daily light exposure, particularly for individuals who experience anxiety, stress, or heightened sensitivity to environmental factors. As a simple challenge, I invite you to pay closer attention to your light habits for one week. Aim to get natural light in the morning and use warmer, lower-intensity lighting in the evening. Observe how your HRV responds over time, rather than focusing on moment-to-moment changes. If you find this episode valuable, share it with someone who may benefit from it. Small changes in daily habits can have a meaningful impact on long-term health and well-being. Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

Welcome to another episode of the Health Upgrade Podcast! Today I am joined by Dr. David Rabin to dive deep into the science of stress, healing, and the power of the vagus nerve. Dr. Rabin unpacks decades of research, explaining how chronic stress impacts our cells, the crucial role of safety in the healing process, and how modern medicine often misses the importance of looking at the whole person rather than isolated symptoms. Together, we reveal how ancient practices align with the latest neuroscience, showing that mindful breathing, touch, and familiar, calming experiences directly influence our health. The conversation also explores cutting-edge topics like MDMA-assisted therapy, epigenetics, and the power to reverse trauma at both psychological and genetic levels. Dr. Rabin discusses how trauma can be inherited, and more importantly, how healing is absolutely possible, with evidence-backed tools and practices ranging from technology like Apollo Neuro to traditional approaches such as yoga, meditation, and breathwork. If you’re looking to upgrade your health and feel empowered in your healing journey, this episode is for you. Share it with friends who could benefit, and discover practical steps you can take today to reconnect your mind and body for a healthier, happier life! Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib Dr. David Rabin Website: https://www.drdave.io/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidrabin/

In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, returning guest Don Moxley joins us to talk about heart rate variability (HRV) and why it matters for your health, recovery, performance, and healthy aging. Drawing on his experience working with elite athletes, Don explains how HRV can help you understand how well your body is adapting to stress and recovering from daily challenges. He also discusses the factors that influence HRV, including sleep, exercise, nutrition, past trauma, and your environment. The conversation highlights the connection between HRV and aging, showing how simple habits like regular movement, healthy food, quality sleep, and strong social relationships can help improve HRV and support long-term health. Don also introduces HRV Plus, a supplement designed to help manage inflammation and improve resilience to everyday stress. If you want to learn how to better understand your body's signals and discover practical ways to improve your health and age well, this episode is for you. Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib JP Errico Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa Don Moxley Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donmoxley/

In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, I explore the essential nutrients that power up your vagus nerve for optimal health, higher HRV, less stress, and more energy. You’ll learn why the vagus nerve is crucial for stress resilience, mood, and overall recovery, as well as how heart rate variability (HRV) acts as its report card. I break down the science behind five key nutrients: B vitamins, choline, magnesium, omega-3s, and vitamin D, explaining what each does, why they matter, and the best food and supplement sources to easily support your nervous system. I also highlight the common deficiencies in these nutrients and how that may be contributing to symptoms like low energy, brain fog, and poor stress recovery. With practical tips and some personal supplement recommendations, you'll understand exactly how to start upgrading your health through nutrition. Ready to take action? If you’re looking to boost your resilience and energy by supporting your vagus nerve, tune in and try implementing at least one tip from this episode. Start nourishing your way to better health today! Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

In this episode, I talk with Maggie Awad, a functional sports medicine nurse practitioner, about how gut health affects performance, energy, and recovery. We explore the connection between the gut and the brain, why good digestion matters, and how issues like inflammation or poor nutrient absorption can impact focus, sleep, and overall health. We also break down topics like amino acids, the gut microbiome, and lab testing in a simple and practical way. Maggie shares easy habits that can support recovery and lower stress, including eating seasonal foods, using breathwork, reducing blue light exposure, and creating more time for rest and healing. Ready to upgrade your health and resilience? Listen now to learn actionable strategies that can help you recover better, improve energy, and build a stronger foundation for peak performance. Don’t forget to share this episode with someone who needs a health upgrade! Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib Maggie Awad Website: https://www.maggieawad.com/

In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, I sit down with Ashok Gupta to explore the groundbreaking science of neuroplasticity and how retraining the brain may hold the key to healing chronic illness. Ashok shares his personal journey with chronic fatigue syndrome and how that experience inspired him to create the Gupta Program, a brain retraining method that has helped thousands of people around the world transform their health by calming deeply ingrained survival responses. We dive into how childhood experiences, trauma, chronic stress, and even generational patterns can shape the brain’s threat response system, contributing to symptoms such as fatigue, chronic pain, food sensitivities, anxiety, and inflammation. Ashok explains how the nervous system can become stuck in a cycle of hypervigilance, and more importantly, how we can begin to rewire those patterns through neuroplasticity. Throughout the conversation, we discuss practical tools for healing, including somatic retraining, meditation, emotional regulation, and lifestyle changes, as well as the growing body of scientific research supporting these approaches. This episode offers hope and a fresh perspective for anyone struggling with chronic symptoms or searching for a deeper understanding of the mind-body connection. If you believe in the body’s incredible ability to heal, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, I dive into a fascinating research article from March 2026 exploring how chaotic fluctuations in heart rate variability (HRV) signal mental activity during task-based work. I unpack the science behind HRV, highlighting the dynamic interaction between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, and explain how healthy levels of chaos in HRV reflect our brain’s ability to shift seamlessly between productivity, creativity, and focus. I also break down the study’s findings, emphasizing that true productivity and creativity aren’t about pushing harder, but about cultivating an adaptable, well-regulated nervous system, particularly through vagus nerve activation. I offer actionable steps, like resonance breathing, sleep optimization, cold exposure, and environmental tweaks, to boost vagal tone and foster that ideal, “chaotic” heart signature associated with our best cognitive work. Ready to level up your performance? Try my top tip this week: practice 10 minutes of resonance breathing before your work sessions and see how your focus and creativity improve. Curious to learn more? Access the free 10-day Vagus Nerve Jumpstart and join the Health Upgraded community for more science-backed tips! Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib

In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast, we talk with Dr. Amie Hornamen about thyroid health and how it affects the body. We get into the challenges people face with thyroid issues, including misdiagnoses, and how these problems can impact both high performers and everyday life. We also break down how thyroid hormones work, why proper testing matters, and why there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Dr. Hornamen explains how lifestyle and environmental factors can affect the thyroid, shares a functional medicine perspective, and gives simple first steps for anyone wondering if their symptoms might be related. If you or someone you know is struggling with unexplained fatigue, weight gain, or brain fog, make sure to listen and share! Don’t forget to check out Dr. Amy Horneman’s new book, "The Thyroid Fix," and join the live launch party for more learning opportunities and helpful resources. Start your journey to upgraded health today! Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib JP Errico Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa Dr. Amie Hornamen Website: https://dramie.com/

In this episode, I welcome Andrea Donsky back to discuss her new book, "Nourishing Menopause." Together, we explore how menopause is more than just hot flashes and night sweats, revealing that there are over 100 symptoms, many of which often go unrecognized. Andrea shares her personal journey, surprising research findings, and the importance of acknowledging these symptoms to help women feel validated and empowered. The conversation dives deep into nutrition, gut health, movement, and the power of mindset. She emphasizes how simple dietary and lifestyle changes, along with proactive stress management, can make a significant impact on women's experiences during perimenopause and menopause. Both speakers highlight the need for women to advocate for themselves, seek supportive healthcare, and use both data and self-awareness to navigate this life phase. If you or someone you love is going through menopause, this episode is packed with practical tips, reassurance, and motivation to thrive during this transition. Share the episode with friends and family, and don’t forget to check out Andrea’s "Nourishing Menopause" for further resources and strategies to help you feel your best! Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib Andrea Donsky Website: https://andreadonsky.com/

In this episode of the Health Upgrade podcast we welcome Dr. Cynthia Thurlow, author of The Menopause Gut, to dive deep into the connections between gut health, hormones, and the aging process, especially for women navigating perimenopause and menopause. Together, we unravel how hormonal changes impact the microbiome, immunity, and even mitochondrial function, emphasizing the crucial role the gut plays in overall health. Dr. Thurlow shares her personal journey from ER medicine to specializing in women’s health, highlighting the importance of lifestyle changes over medication for chronic conditions. The conversation touches on actionable topics such as intermittent fasting, stress management, mitochondrial health, and the value of personalized testing and care. she breaks down complex science into practical advice for enhancing well-being at any age. If you or someone you love is looking to optimize health during hormonal transitions, or simply wants to understand the powerful link between the gut, brain, and aging, this episode is for you. Don’t forget to share the episode with friends and explore Dr. Cynthia Thurlow's latest book for even more insights to help you upgrade your health! Dr. Navaz Habib Email: podcast@healthupgraded.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNavazHabib/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnavazhabib/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/drnavazhabib JP Errico Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevnsguy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jp-errico-097629aa Dr. Cynthia Thurlow Website: https://www.cynthiathurlow.com/