Podcast Summary: The Ultimate Human with Gary Brecka | Episode 145: Dr. Austin Lake on Biohacking Women’s Health
Introduction
In Episode 145 of The Ultimate Human with Gary Brecka, host Gary Brecka engages in a profound discussion with Dr. Austin Lake, a specialist in women’s health, focusing on biohacking birth control, hormones, sleep, and essential nutrients. The conversation delves deep into the challenges faced by women in maintaining hormonal balance, the adverse effects of conventional birth control, and the importance of foundational health practices in achieving longevity and wellness.
Birth Control and Its Long-Term Effects
Dr. Austin Lake opens the conversation by critiquing the widespread use of birth control among young adolescents. He emphasizes that hormonal contraceptives, while intended to prevent pregnancy, often lead to significant long-term health issues.
Dr. Austin Lake [00:00]: “A 16 year old or even a 13 year old on birth control to control an issue that doesn't actually solve any problems, but creates a lot more problems.”
Lake highlights how birth control disrupts natural ovulation, leading to conditions such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Gary Brecka echoes these concerns, pointing out the link between hormonal contraception and difficulties in conception.
Gary Brecka [00:14]: “You look at these young, healthy, childbearing women and you wonder, why is it so difficult to get pregnant? Why is it so difficult to maintain a pregnancy?”
Insulin Resistance and Endocrine Disruptors
The discussion further explores the role of insulin resistance and the impact of endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in everyday products. Lake attributes the hormonal imbalances to high consumption of refined carbohydrates and exposure to chemicals in fragrances and lotions.
Dr. Austin Lake [00:21]: “Because of insulin resistance, right? You got all these high carb, refined carbohydrates being consumed in conjunction with endocrine disrupting chemicals... and next thing you know you have this hormonal storm that happens.”
Autoimmune Diseases Predominantly Affecting Women
Gary brings attention to the alarming prevalence of autoimmune diseases among women, noting that 75-80% of such conditions occur in females. Lake underscores the necessity for awareness and empowerment, asserting that women can improve their fertility and overall health through informed choices.
Gary Brecka [00:55]: “When we look at the pandemic of autoimmune disease, the majority of this affects women.”
Dr. Austin Lake [01:02]: “And that's why things like this is so important for people to know... it's very empowering to know that that's an option.”
Metabolic Syndrome and Rising Health Concerns
The conversation shifts to the increasing rates of metabolic syndrome and autism, especially among younger populations. Lake expresses concern over the rapid rise in these conditions over the past few decades, attributing it to environmental and lifestyle factors that are not adequately addressed by current public policies.
Gary Brecka [05:21]: “I don't think very often. Their OB GYN is explaining the consequences.”
Dr. Austin Lake [05:37]: “When you see the complete decline... you have to ask the question of like, what's going on?”
Public Policy and Chemical-Laden Foods
Both hosts discuss the role of public policy in exacerbating health issues, particularly through the subsidization of processed foods laden with harmful chemicals versus the taxation of whole, organic foods. Lake criticizes the disconnect between governmental approaches and the foundational principles of health.
Gary Brecka [07:22]: “...subsidizing the most chemical laden foods in our food supply and taxing and making cost unaffordable, you know, raw, whole organic foods.”
Dr. Austin Lake [07:32]: “...just nefariousness. I think there's like a heart and soul issue of why people would want to see people not flourish...”
Functional Medicine and Clinical Approaches
Dr. Lake outlines his approach to addressing hormonal imbalances and infertility through functional medicine. He emphasizes the importance of foundational health practices, such as proper sleep hygiene, balanced nutrition, and appropriate supplementation, before considering hormone replacement therapies.
Gary Brecka [10:50]: “What made you go the, you know, women's health route and functional medicine?”
Dr. Austin Lake [11:33]: “...we saw a huge need in our local community... more women coming in with health problems.”
Sleep Hygiene and Its Impact on Hormonal Health
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the critical role of sleep in maintaining hormonal balance. Lake provides practical advice on improving sleep hygiene, such as limiting blue light exposure, regulating meal times, and managing stress to prevent cortisol spikes that disrupt hormone production.
Dr. Austin Lake [15:03]: “You can't expect your hormones... to be well supplied.”
Gary Brecka [15:22]: “We are incredible circadian creatures.”
Supplements and Nutrient Deficiencies
Both Brecka and Lake advocate for the use of quality supplements to address common nutrient deficiencies that impact hormonal health. They stress the importance of vitamins D3 with K2, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids, noting that many women have imbalanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratios due to dietary habits.
Gary Brecka [36:07]: “You look at the Omega 6 is off the chart when you do that?”
Dr. Austin Lake [36:10]: “Seed oils are diet. I mean, a deficiency of omega threes in our food that they're consuming.”
Addressing Misconceptions About Hormone Therapy
Lake discusses common misconceptions surrounding hormone therapy, advocating for a balanced approach that includes lifestyle modifications alongside any necessary supplementation. He warns against over-reliance on hormone replacement without addressing underlying health issues.
Gary Brecka [65:43]: “What are some misconceptions that you see coming through your practice that you're clearing up?”
Dr. Austin Lake [66:14]: “...if your environment is constantly sending a signal to your hormones... you just can't expect your sex hormones to be well supplied.”
The Role of Faith in Health Practices
In the latter part of the podcast, Lake shares how his Christian faith influences his approach to health and wellness. He believes that taking care of one’s body is a form of stewardship, aligning with biblical principles. This perspective fuels his commitment to helping others achieve optimal health.
Dr. Austin Lake [69:14]: “I have to kind of constantly be in this... mindset of, like, it's not meaningless, but it's not everything at the same time.”
Conclusion
The episode concludes with reflections on what it means to be an "ultimate human." Both Brecka and Lake emphasize the importance of holistic health, faith, and intentional living in achieving a fulfilled and balanced life. They encourage listeners to take proactive steps in managing their health through informed choices and foundational practices.
Dr. Austin Lake [77:49]: “...getting your body in a position, getting your mind a position to where I can be obedient to God's calling. That, to me, would be an ultimate human.”
This comprehensive discussion underscores the intricate connections between hormonal health, lifestyle choices, and overall well-being, offering actionable insights for women seeking to optimize their health naturally.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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Dr. Austin Lake [00:00]: “A 16 year old or even a 13 year old on birth control to control an issue that doesn't actually solve any problems, but creates a lot more problems.”
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Gary Brecka [00:14]: “Why is it so difficult to get pregnant? Why is it so difficult to maintain a pregnancy?”
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Dr. Austin Lake [00:21]: “You have this hormonal storm that happens.”
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Gary Brecka [00:55]: “75 or 80% of all autoimmune diseases are happening to females.”
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Dr. Austin Lake [01:02]: “It's very empowering to know that that's an option.”
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Gary Brecka [05:21]: “Their OB GYN is explaining the consequences.”
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Dr. Austin Lake [07:32]: “There's a heart and soul issue of why people would want to see people not flourish.”
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Gary Brecka [15:22]: “We are incredible circadian creatures.”
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Dr. Austin Lake [36:10]: “Seed oils are diet. I mean, a deficiency of omega threes in our food that they're consuming.”
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Gary Brecka [65:43]: “What are some misconceptions that you see coming through your practice that you're clearing up?”
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Dr. Austin Lake [66:14]: “You can't expect your sex hormones to be well supplied.”
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Dr. Austin Lake [69:14]: “It's not meaningless, but it's not everything at the same time.”
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Dr. Austin Lake [77:49]: “That would be an ultimate human.”
Resources Mentioned
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Gary's Ultimate Human VIP Community: For advanced health protocols, Q&A sessions, and exclusive content. ultimatehuman.com
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10X Genetic Methylation Test: 10XHealthTest.com
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Dr. Austin Lake's Upcoming Ebook: Holy Health
Closing Remarks
Episode 145 offers a wealth of knowledge on women's health, emphasizing the importance of addressing foundational health issues before resorting to hormonal therapies. Dr. Austin Lake and Gary Brecka provide listeners with actionable strategies to enhance hormonal balance, improve sleep, and adopt a holistic approach to wellness, all grounded in both scientific understanding and personal faith.