Understanding GLP-1 Drugs and Supporting Muscle Health with Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz

Guest Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz, a pharmacist with a postdoctoral residency in integrative medicine and co-founder of the Integrative Health Pharmacy Residency Program. Named one of the 50 Most Influential Leaders in Pharmacy in 2023, Dr. Swathi is a trailblazer in healthcare innovation.

What Are GLP-1 Drugs?

Dr. Swathi explains GLP-1 drugs, a class of medications derived from glucagon-like peptide 1 hormones. These medications regulate blood sugar and appetite and were initially FDA-approved for managing Type 2 diabetes. Popular drugs in this category include:

• Ozempic (semaglutide): Approved for Type 2 diabetes.
• Wegovy: A higher dose aimed at appetite suppression and weight loss.

Risks Associated with GLP-1 Drugs

Dr. Swathi discusses common and lesser-known risks of GLP-1 drugs:

1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, and delayed stomach emptying.
2. Off-Label Misuse: Use by individuals outside approved populations.
3. Mental Health Concerns: Potential adverse effects.
4. Muscle Loss: Accelerated loss of muscle mass, impacting quality of life.

Supporting Muscle Health

Dr. Swathi highlights the importance of preserving muscle health, especially for aging individuals or those on GLP-1 drugs. Her recommendations include:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in salmon, chia seeds, or fish oil supplements.
• Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs): Prevent muscle breakdown and support protein synthesis.
• Fortetropin (MyosMD): A natural compound from fertilized egg yolks that boosts muscle protein synthesis.

Dietary Strategies

For individuals on GLP-1 drugs, Dr. Swathi recommends:

• Eating small, frequent meals with a focus on whole foods.
• Prioritizing high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Considering prebiotic fibers to support gut health.

New and Emerging Drugs

Dr. Swathi introduces other groundbreaking drug classes, such as PCSK9 inhibitors for managing cholesterol in individuals with familial high cholesterol.

Supplements and Clinical Research

Dr. Swathi emphasizes the importance of selecting supplements backed by clinical research and regulated for safety and efficacy.

Connect with Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz

• Instagram and LinkedIn: Search for her name to stay updated.
• Website: Visit www.myosmd.com for educational resources on muscle health and longevity.

Closing Remarks

Dr. Allen Lycka thanks Dr. Swathi for her insights and encourages listeners to visit his website, www.drallenlycka.com, for more information on living a fantastic life.

BIO:

Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz, Pharm.D., is a trailblazing healthcare innovator and the first U.S. pharmacist to complete a postdoctoral residency in integrative medicine. Co-founder of the Integrative Health Pharmacy Residency Program, she combines expertise in biotech, personalized medicine, and clinical research to revolutionize patient care. Named one of the 50 Most Influential Leaders in Pharmacy in 2023, Dr. Swathi is a sought-after advisor, lecturer, and published researcher driving healthcare innovation forward.

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/doctorswathi/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swathi-varanasi/

Website: https://myosmd.com/ or https://myosmd.com/pages/medical-advisors

Decoding Narcissism and Finding Freedom with Dr. Valerie Sussman

Introduction

In this episode, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Dr. Valerie Sussman, a retired pediatrician, artist, writer, and survivor of narcissistic abuse. Valerie shares her inspiring journey of leaving a 20-year emotionally abusive marriage, trading her stethoscope for a paintbrush, and finding healing through art, writing, and humor.

Key Topics Discussed

Understanding Narcissistic Relationships

• Valerie describes how her journey to recognizing emotional abuse began with what she calls the "Google test for narcissism."
• The "death by 1,000 cuts" nature of narcissistic relationships and their psychological toll.
• The textbook cycle of narcissistic abuse: Love Bombing, Devaluing, Discard, and Hoovering.

The Six Hallmarks of Narcissism

Valerie outlines the "6 Es" that can help identify a narcissist:

1. Exploitation – Using people as tools for personal gain.
2. Envy – Sabotaging others' successes.
3. Lack of Empathy – Faking empathy without genuine feelings.
4. Entitlement – Expecting special treatment and constant attention.
5. Eggshells – Fragile egos that require constant ego-soothing.
6. Emotional Blackmail – Weaponizing insecurities and fears.

Breaking Free and Finding Healing

• Valerie explains "hopeium," the addictive hope that keeps victims in toxic relationships.
• Advice for healing: Reconnect with your core values and passions, embrace creativity, and seek therapy.
• Valerie shares how art and writing played a critical role in her recovery.

Teenagers and Toxic Relationships

• Red flags that your teenager may be in a toxic relationship, including behavioral changes, secrecy, and loss of self-confidence.

Living a Fantastic Life

• Valerie's transformation after leaving her marriage: rediscovering joy, setting boundaries, and aligning her life with her values.
• The importance of recognizing what fills you up versus what depletes you.

Memorable Quotes

• "Trust your gut. If something feels off, there’s probably a reason."
• "Hopeium is dangerous—it keeps us hooked and away from reality."
• "Living a fantastic life means aligning with your purpose and embracing what lights you up."

Resources Mentioned

• Valerie’s upcoming book: Decoding Narcissism: A Survivor’s Guide from A to Z (expected release next year).
• Website: www.valeriesussman.com
• Instagram: @ValerieSussman_creative

Call to Action

• Visit Dr. Allen Lycka’s website: www.drallenlycka.com for more resources.

Closing Thoughts

Dr. Valerie Sussman’s journey of resilience and rediscovery is a testament to the power of self-awareness and creativity in healing. Tune in to learn how to recognize narcissistic traits, rebuild after abuse, and live a fantastic life.

BIO:

Dr. Valerie Sussman is a retired pediatrician, an artist, writer, and a survivor of narcissistic abuse. At fifty, Valerie traded her stethoscope for a paintbrush, leaving a twenty-year emotionally abusive marriage to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Now she’s dedicated to guiding others through their own transformations using art, writing, and a healthy dose of irreverent humor.

Her upcoming book, Decoding Narcissism: A Survivor Guide from A to Z, will be available in 2025.

Social Media:

Website: Www.valeriesussman.com

Instagram: @valeriesussman_creative

Facebook: Valerie Sussman

Substack: valeriesussman.substack.com

The Perks of Hospice: Stories of Love, Life, and Loss with Linda Moran

Host: Dr. Allen Lycka

Guest: Linda Moran – Retired Public Educator, Author, and Advocate

Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka introduces Linda Moran, a retired educator of over 35 years, recent widow, and author of The Perks of Hospice: Stories of Love, Life, and Loss. Linda shares her journey through her husband's challenging medical experience and the transformative role hospice care played in their lives.

The Medical Journey

• Chronic Issues and Diagnosis: Linda discusses her husband's health struggles, including an aneurysm, heart attack, open-heart surgery, and stroke.
• The Turning Point: How the recommendation for hospice care shifted their perspective on managing chronic illness and end-of-life care.

The Hospice Experience

• A New Approach to Care: Linda highlights the compassionate support received through hospice, including spiritual caregivers, social workers, and nurses.
• Uncommon Longevity: Despite being given a six-month prognosis, Linda's husband lived two years in hospice, which allowed them to focus on quality of life.
• A Support System Like No Other: Linda shares the “angels” who walked with them through the journey, providing meals, emotional support, and respite care.

Respite House: A Place of Peace

• What is a Respite House? Linda explains how this facility allowed her and her husband to spend his final weeks together in comfort and dignity.
• Quality Time Together: They enjoyed shared moments watching nostalgic TV shows without the burden of caregiving tasks.

The Role of Doctors in End-of-Life Care

• The Need for Training: Linda discusses the lack of training many doctors receive regarding end-of-life issues and how this creates challenges for patients and families.
• A Call for Change: Linda advocates for better education and open communication between doctors and families about hospice and palliative care options.

Linda’s Checklist for Medical Crises

Linda shares practical advice to prepare for medical challenges:

• Understand medical terminology and ask for layman's explanations.
• Keep detailed records of doctors, medications, and allergies.
• Advocate for timely appointments and know when to escalate concerns.
• Carry essential information like insurance cards and medication lists.
• Prepare advance directives, such as a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order

Advice for Her Younger Self

Linda reflects on her life lessons:

• Be kind to everyone; every person has a story you don’t know.
• Live fully and strive to be a force for good in the world.

About Linda’s Book

• Title: The Perks of Hospice: Stories of Love, Life, and Loss
• Where to Buy: Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Ingram, and independent bookstores by request.

Closing Thoughts

Dr. Allen Lycka and Linda Moran encourage listeners to consider hospice as a compassionate option for end-of-life care.

For more information on living a fantastic life, visit Dr. Lycka’s websites:

• www.drallenlycka.com
• www.dralspeaks.com