In Part 2 of the Skin Longevity Masterclass, we break down why daily sun protection is essential at every age—and how to do it right.

Despite being the body’s largest organ (making up about 16% of total body weight), skin health is often overlooked in traditional medicine. Most training focuses on disease, not prevention or optimization. But as the conversation around longevity and healthspan evolves, it’s becoming clear: your skin plays a critical role in how well—and how long—you live.

In this first part of our 5-part Skin Longevity Masterclass, we explore why skin is more than a barrier—it’s a dynamic, intelligent organ that reflects and influences your internal health.

In this video, we break down the real differences between GLP-1 pills and injections, including effectiveness, side effects, cost, and who should choose each option.

If you’ve been wondering whether a daily pill can compete with a weekly shot, this is what you need to know.

In this video, you’ll learn:

• How oral GLP-1 medications compare to injections
• Which option leads to more weight loss
• Pros and cons of pills vs. shots
• Who should consider oral medications (and who shouldn’t)
• A physician’s perspective on what actually works best

GLP-1 medications are powerful tools—but they’re not one-size-fits-all. The best option depends on your goals, lifestyle, and medical needs.

In this video, we break down the science behind alcohol, including:

• What alcohol actually does in your body
• The real risks (from sleep disruption to cancer)
• Common myths about “healthy” drinking
• How much is actually safe
• Simple ways to cut back without giving it up completely

Whether you’re in Asheville or Greenville, NC—or anywhere—this is information everyone should know.

If you’ve ever wondered if your drinking habits are “fine” or worth rethinking, this video is for you.

If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol, please seek help. There are local resources and support systems available, and it’s never too late to make a change.

You’re not alone—and the solution isn’t setting your alarm earlier. In this week’s podcast, we’re breaking down simple, realistic ways to create more time in your day by shifting habits, priorities, and energy—not your wake-up time.

If you’re ready to feel less rushed and more in control of your schedule, give it a watch and see how small changes can make a big difference.

The conversation covers a wide range of topics and offers valuable insights into how to care for your health in today’s world.

Take a moment to listen and explore what modern, personalized health can look like.

I want to show you a recent case report of what can happen when a personalized plan is paired with structure and coaching.

This patient is young, health-conscious, but very busy. Despite knowing what to do, he could never really transform this knowledge into meaningful health outcomes. Interestingly, he came to see me primarily to help him with chronic gout flares. But what came out a year of work was something far more beneficial.

I encourage you to watch the video and follow along as I walk through his journey with our clinic. But here’s a preview:

1. He lost 25lb of body fat
2. He gained 12lb of lean mass
3. Uric acid was cut in half — and no more gout flares!
4. Inflammation markers went from high to optimal
5. Liver fat is gone
6. Cholesterol metrics have dropped 20% (similar drop to medications!)

All of this happened without additional medications. Just an in-depth evaluation, personalized plan with targeted interventions, and health coaching.

This is how medicine should be for us all! This is why I do what I do, and I’m incredibly proud of his accomplishments.

In this video, we break down what NAD+ actually does in your body, who really benefits from it, and the smartest way to support your levels (without falling for the hype).

You’ll learn:

1. What NAD+ is and why it’s essential for energy + DNA repair
2. Why NAD+ declines with age and chronic conditions
3. The key difference between NAD+, NADH, NMN, and NR
4. Why IV NAD+ may not work the way you think
5. The most effective (and cost-efficient) way to boost NAD+
6. How inflammation, metabolism, and lifestyle impact your levels

We also cover who might actually need NAD+ support and the symptoms that could signal an issue (fatigue, brain fog, poor recovery, and more).

Bottom line: Supplements can help, but only if you understand the biology first.

In this podcast, we break down the science behind Omega-3 levels and homocysteine, two key factors that influence brain health and long-term cognitive function. Research shows that optimizing both of these markers may significantly reduce the risk of dementia and support healthy brain aging.

You’ll learn:

• Why Omega-3 fatty acids are critical for brain structure and inflammation control

• How homocysteine levels reflect how well your body’s methylation cycle is working

• Why high homocysteine can increase inflammation and contribute to Alzheimer’s-related brain changes

• The optimal ranges for these blood markers

• How to test for them

• Simple ways to improve your levels through diet and targeted supplementation

Studies suggest that people with higher Omega-3 levels may reduce dementia risk by 10–20%, while lowering elevated homocysteine through B-vitamin support may slow brain atrophy and support cognitive health.

Dementia is complex, but growing evidence suggests many cases may be preventable through lifestyle and metabolic optimization. Addressing these two markers early may help protect memory, brain function, and long-term health.

If you found this helpful, subscribe for more science-based insights on brain health, longevity, and metabolic optimization.

Today I want to talk about one of the more difficult moments in a parent’s life, a time filled with anxiety that completely takes over your schedule, your attention, and sometimes your sanity: potty training.

If you’ve been through it, you know exactly what I mean.

But as I went through this experience with my son, I realized something surprising: the process of potty training has a lot in common with building healthy habits as adults.

Two people can weigh the same, have the same BMI, but be con be total opposite when it comes to their risk of chronic disease and death. This is a common scenario and something I see daily in my clinic. A new study on BMI shines a light on this phenomenon, uncovering that the weight you see on the scale is simply not helpful.

In this video, I’m going to review a study published in the Annals of Family Medicine in June 2025 by a team out of the University of Florida. The study design posed a great question: which measurement is a better predictor of health: BMI, waist circumference (WC), or body fat percentage (BF%)?

What if Crohn’s disease isn’t only about inflammation, but about broken repair systems and misfiring immune signals?

Dr. Troy Jackson uses a precision medicine approach to help patients better understand chronic inflammatory conditions like Crohn’s disease. In one recent case study, a woman with long-standing Crohn’s disease reached objective remission after years of struggle. Using genetic insights, targeted peptide therapy, and regular lab tracking, her inflammatory markers dropped from dangerously high levels to normal, and her quality of life dramatically improved.

Crohn’s Disease Care in Asheville, NC

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects many patients across Western North Carolina. Symptoms may include:

1. Abdominal pain
2. Chronic diarrhea
3. Fatigue
4. Weight loss
5. Nutritional deficiencies

Many patients in Asheville come to us after trying multiple treatments with limited success. Traditional therapies often focus on suppressing inflammation, but precision medicine aims to identify root causes and restore balance.

If you’re searching for:

1. Crohn’s disease treatment in Asheville NC
2. Functional medicine Crohn’s specialist Asheville
3. Precision health clinic near Asheville

this approach may be worth exploring with a qualified physician.

Precision Medicine for Crohn’s Disease

Precision medicine uses tools like genetics, biomarker testing, and patient history to create individualized treatment plans.

At our Asheville-based practice, we focus on:

1. Gut barrier repair
2. Immune system balance
3. Personalized nutrition strategies
4. Tracking healing with advanced lab testing
5. Identifying environmental or lifestyle triggers

This structured, data-driven approach helps patients and physicians make better decisions together.

What Are Peptide Therapies?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules in the body. Some peptides are being researched for their potential to support healing and immune modulation.

In this case study, physician-supervised peptide therapies included:

1. BPC-157 – studied for gut lining repair and anti-inflammatory effects
2. Thymosin Alpha-1 – researched for immune system modulation

These therapies were part of a personalized plan with careful monitoring.

Important: Peptide therapy is still an evolving field and should only be pursued with licensed medical supervision.

Case Study: Crohn’s Disease Remission With Precision Health

One Asheville-area patient had years of uncontrolled Crohn’s disease.

1. Calprotectin levels were nearly 3,000
2. After precision medicine evaluation and treatment, markers normalized
3. She reported improved digestion, energy, and relationship with food
4. Progress was tracked with regular lab testing

While results vary from patient to patient, this case highlights how targeted care may help patients who haven’t responded to standard treatments.

Why Patients Are Exploring Precision Health

Asheville is known for its strong wellness community and access to integrative healthcare. Many patients in Buncombe County and Western North Carolina are looking for:

1. Alternatives after medication side effects
2. Personalized Crohn’s disease care
3. Functional and integrative medicine options
4. Data-driven treatment strategies

Precision medicine offers a way to move from symptom suppression toward system restoration.

Crohn’s Disease Care

If you live in Asheville, Hendersonville, Black Mountain, Weaverville, or surrounding Western North Carolina communities, working with a physician experienced in precision medicine may help you explore new treatment strategies.

A consultation may include:

1. Genetic and biomarker testing
2. Detailed nutrition and lifestyle evaluation
3. Review of prior treatments
4. Personalized care planning
5. Ongoing lab monitoring

If you’re interested in precision medicine for Crohn’s disease in Asheville, North Carolina, talk with a qualified physician about whether genetic testing, biomarker evaluation, or personalized care strategies might be right for you.

Read more here.

Welcome to Week 4 of our health challenge, where we’re focusing on one of the most overlooked — and most powerful — foundations of health: sleep.

Sleep impacts everything from energy and mood to stress levels, hormones, immune health, and mental clarity. Yet for many of us, it’s the first thing we sacrifice when life gets busy.

In this week’s video, we talk about:

1. why sleep is essential for overall health
2. how stress and sleep are deeply connected
3. simple, realistic ways to support better sleep without striving for perfection
4. small habit shifts that can make a meaningful difference over time

This week isn’t about “perfect sleep.” It’s about becoming more aware of what your body needs and creating space for rest in a way that feels sustainable.

Read the full Week 4 Sleep blog post here.

Why Exercise Is More Than Just Movement

Exercise is often framed as something we have to do. But when approached correctly, movement becomes one of the most powerful tools for supporting overall health. The right type of exercise can improve energy levels, support metabolic function, enhance circulation, and reinforce resilience in the body.

This week’s exercise challenge is designed to work with your body—not against it—by focusing on quality, control, and consistency rather than pushing to exhaustion.

The Purpose of Week 3’s Exercise Challenge

Exercise is meant to support foundational strength and stability. Rather than adding complexity or intensity, the goal is to reinforce proper movement patterns and help the body build confidence through repetition and control.

This approach helps:

1. Reduce unnecessary strain
2. Improve body awareness
3. Support long-term consistency
4. Lower the risk of injury or burnout

When movement feels supportive, it becomes something you can sustain.

What This Type of Exercise Looks Like

This type of exercise emphasizes intentional, controlled movement rather than high intensity or exhaustion. Examples include slow, deliberate strength training, bodyweight exercises that focus on stability and alignment, mobility and range-of-motion work, and low-impact activities like walking, cycling, or light resistance training. The goal is to move with purpose—paying attention to form, breathing, and how your body responds—so the exercise supports strength, coordination, and resilience without overstressing the system.

Consistency Over Intensity

Many people assume progress comes from doing more—harder workouts, longer sessions, greater effort. In reality, consistent, intentional movement is what creates meaningful change over time. Exercise works best when it fits into your life and aligns with your body’s current capacity. Small, regular efforts often lead to better outcomes than sporadic bursts of intensity.

Movement as Part of the Bigger Picture

Exercise does not exist in isolation. It works best when paired with adequate recovery, proper nutrition, and an understanding of what your body needs at this stage. This week is all about recognizing movement as a form of medicine, one that supports not only physical strength, but also mental clarity, confidence, and momentum.

Your Focus for the Week

As you move through this week’s exercise:

1. Focus on how your body feels, not how much you’re doing
2. Prioritize form and control over speed
3. Give yourself permission to meet your body where it is

Progress doesn’t require perfection. It requires consistency.

Ready to Keep Going?

If this week’s focus on movement is helping you build momentum, you’re on the right track. Education and intention create the foundation for lasting change, and movement is one of the most powerful places to begin.

Keep showing up, keep moving, and let exercise work for you.

This week, we’re focusing on fiber. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t come with dramatic before-and-after photos. But it is one of the most impactful nutrients for gut health, hormone balance, blood sugar stability, and overall well-being.

Let’s break it down in a realistic, doable way.

Why Fiber Deserves a Whole Week

Fiber plays a quiet but critical role in how our bodies function. When we consistently get enough fiber, it helps:

1. Support digestion and regularity
2. Feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut
3. Stabilize blood sugar and energy levels
4. Support cholesterol and heart health
5. Promote fullness and satisfaction after meals

And yet, many people are getting far less fiber than their bodies need—often without realizing it.

What Counts as Fiber?

Fiber comes from plant foods, including:

1. Vegetables
2. Fruits
3. Beans and lentils
4. Whole grains
5. Nuts and seeds

If most of your meals rely heavily on refined carbs or animal proteins, fiber can easily get pushed aside. This week is about gently bringing it back into focus.

How to Add More Fiber (Without Overthinking It)

You don’t need to overhaul your entire diet to benefit. Small, consistent shifts make a real difference.

Try:

1. Adding one extra vegetable to a meal you already eat
2. Swapping refined grains for whole grains when possible
3. Including beans or lentils a few times this week
4. Pairing fruit with meals or snacks instead of eating it alone

If your body isn’t used to fiber, go slowly. Drink plenty of water and pay attention to how you feel.

Notice, Don’t Judge

As with every week of this challenge, the goal isn’t perfection. It’s awareness.

This week, notice:

1. How your digestion feels
2. Whether your energy levels change
3. If you feel more satisfied after meals

Your body is always giving you feedback. Fiber just helps you hear it more clearly.

You’re Building a Foundation

Week 2 isn’t about doing everything “right.” It’s about building a foundation you can actually maintain, one that is rooted in nourishment, not rules.

Keep going. You’re doing meaningful work.

At Authentic Health in Asheville, North Carolina, we’re kicking off our four-week health challenge by focusing on something that affects every system in your body: proper hydration.

Whether your goal is more energy, better digestion, clearer thinking, or improved metabolic health, it all starts with fluids.

This week’s challenge is designed to be simple, flexible, and realistic, because sustainable health doesn’t come from perfection; it comes from consistency.

Why Is Hydration So Important for Your Health?

Proper hydration supports:

1. Sustained energy levels
2. Healthy digestion and gut function
3. Brain function, focus, and mood
4. Blood pressure regulation
5. Appetite and hunger cues
6. Joint and muscle performance

Yet studies consistently show that most adults are chronically under-hydrated, often without realizing it. Fatigue, headaches, cravings, brain fog, and even constipation are frequently hydration-related, not signs you need more caffeine or sugar.

Week 1 Health Challenge: Hydration Made Simple

You don’t need to overhaul your entire routine to see benefits. This week, choose one hydration-focused habit and commit to it for seven days.

Option 1: Cut the Sugar

Reduce or eliminate sugary beverages such as:

1. Soda
2. Sweet tea
3. Juice
4. Energy drinks

Replace them with:

1. Plain water
2. Sparkling water
3. Unsweetened herbal or green tea

Why it works:

Sugary drinks contribute to dehydration, blood sugar spikes, and energy crashes. Simply swapping them for water or unsweetened beverages can improve hydration and metabolic health quickly.

Option 2: Hit Your Personalized Fluid Goal

Hydration needs aren’t one-size-fits-all. Your ideal fluid intake depends on your body size, activity level, and environment (yes—mountain living in Asheville counts!).

We recommend using this simple calculator to estimate your daily fluid needs.

Why it works:

Many people drink far less than their bodies actually need. Having a personalized target helps turn hydration into a measurable, achievable habit.

Option 3: Dry or Damp January (or Anytime Reset)

Take a break from alcohol—or significantly reduce your intake—for the week or month.

From a health perspective, less really is more.

For reference:

1. Men: fewer than 7 drinks per week
2. Women: fewer than 3 drinks per week

Even short-term alcohol reduction can lead to:

1. Better hydration
2. Improved sleep quality
3. Increased energy
4. Better metabolic health

Do I Have to Do All Three Hydration Challenges?

No—and that’s intentional. Pick one option. Commit for the week. Build from there.

Small, consistent changes are far more effective than trying to do everything at once. Hydration habits tend to stack naturally once your body starts feeling the benefits.

Common Hydration Questions

How do I know if I’m dehydrated?

Common signs include fatigue, headaches, dark urine, dry mouth, dizziness, and sugar cravings.

Does coffee count toward hydration?

Yes, in moderation, but water should still be your primary fluid source.

Is sparkling water okay?

Absolutely, as long as it’s unsweetened.

Do I need electrolytes?

Most people don’t need them daily unless exercising intensely or sweating heavily.

Small Change. Big Payoff.

Let’s get hydrated. Stay tuned for Week 2 of our four-week health challenge, and don’t forget to watch the accompanying YouTube video for practical hydration tips you can start using today.

Take Hydration to the Next Level with IV Therapy in Asheville, NC

If you’re struggling to stay hydrated—or want faster, more targeted support—Authentic Health offers professional IV therapy in Asheville, NC designed to help restore fluids, electrolytes, and essential nutrients efficiently.

IV therapy can support:

1. Faster rehydration
2. Improved energy and mental clarity
3. Immune and metabolic support
4. Recovery from travel, stress, illness, or intense activity

Whether you’re kickstarting healthier habits or need extra support during your wellness journey, IV therapy can be a powerful complement to daily hydration.

Learn more about IV therapy at Authentic Health.

You’ll learn the 5 foundational steps of Pre-Habit Planning: how to find your direction, define your personal “why,” shift your identity, plan your first moves, and stay compassionately consistent when life gets in the way. Whether your goal is better energy, weight loss, disease prevention, or simply feeling better in your body, this approach helps turn short-lived resolutions into sustainable lifestyle change.

In our latest video and podcast episode, Dr. Gus Vickery and Dr. Troy Jackson dive deep into the connection between PCOS, endocrine disruptors, and metabolic health. This conversation is packed with real case studies, practical insights, and a clear roadmap for anyone trying to improve their hormone and metabolic function.

What We Cover in the Episode

1. A PCOS Case Study + the Hidden Role of Endocrine Disruptors

Dr. Vickery walks through a real PCOS case and highlights how endocrine disruptors—common chemicals found in everyday products—can quietly interfere with hormone balance, inflammation, and metabolism.

Their clinical approach combines:

• targeted medications
• strategic supplementation
• lifestyle and environmental changes

This trio helps women see faster and more sustainable improvements in their PCOS symptoms.

2. Why Standard Labs Miss Early Insulin Resistance

Dr. Jackson shares a powerful case study showing that insulin resistance often develops long before traditional lab panels flag a problem. He explains which markers tell a more complete story and why early detection matters for long-term metabolic health.

3. The Mindset Shift That Drives Real Health Transformation

Both physicians emphasize that commitment and consistency matter just as much as protocols. Long-term metabolic healing isn’t about perfection—it’s about building habits and environments that support your goals.

Listen to the Podcast

Tune in now to learn practical, actionable steps for improving PCOS, reducing insulin resistance, and supporting metabolic health at the root.

Free Download: The Detox Playbook

As mentioned in the episode, we’re sharing the Detox Playbook—a quick, actionable guide to reducing endocrine disruptors in your home and daily routine.

Menopause can be a rough experience for many women: Maybe you’re noticing hot flashes, mood swings, or sudden changes with how your clothes are fitting and are trying to figure out what the heck is going on. You talk with your doctor and agree to start menopause hormone therapy. But when you pick it up, you read on the prescription label: WARNING: ENDOMETRIAL CANCER, CARDIOVASCULAR DISORDERS, BREAST CANCER and PROBABLE DEMENTIA.

Uh, no thanks, Doc. You walk away, and continue to suffer. But at least you aren’t getting cancer, having a heart attack, or losing your mind, right?

Today, I want to talk about menopause hormone therapy (MHT). I want to address the FDA’s decision to remove this warning from estradiol products and why this is a good thing for both women and medical practitioners. I also want to address the many misconceptions as well as best use cases for MHT.

MHT and the Women’s Health Initiative: Where The Confusion Began

The Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) was a large-scale study in the 1990s investigating the impact of MHT for menopausal women in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. It was stopped early (between 2002 and 2004) due to increased risks of breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, and dementia. This trial also coincided with the rapid growth of the 24-hr news cycles and the internet, fueling the spread of these results to millions of people.

As a result of the WHI, the FDA placed a black box warning on all estradiol products warning patients about the increased risks of cancer, heart disease, and dementia. And also as a result, many women came off MHT or refused MHT treatments despite ongoing menopausal symptoms.

Since the publication and rapid spread of these results, many of the researchers have worked for the next 2 decades to backtrack on some of these claims.

    •    Breast cancer risk went from 3 out of every 1000 women to 4 out of every 1000 women, an extremely small risk compared to what the headlines said.

    •    This increased cancer risk was NOT seen in the estradiol-only group but rather in the group that took the estrogen + progestin medication, suggesting that progestin is the more likely culprit.

    •    Cardiovascular disease risk was only seen in women starting MHT later in life. Women starting MHT soon after menopause showed improved cardiovascular risk.

So Why Remove The Black Box Warning?

Black box warnings are necessary to alert patients to the most serious side effects a medication can cause. But since medicine is a constantly evolving science, these warnings can quickly become outdated and inaccurate. The FDA decided to remove the black box warning from estradiol products for this very reason.

    •    We have better medication options for MHT and rarely prescribe the same synthetic hormones used in the study.

    •    Further studies have identified that MHT risk varies by age — the younger you are when you start, the less risk and more benefit.

    •    Black box warnings scare women away from treatments unnecessarily.

This is a change has been long overdue, as many women have been inappropriately scared away from MHT due to this warning.

The Critical Window for MHT

Follow-up studies to the WHI have shown that women who start MHT within 10 years of menopause have the least risk of adverse outcomes and the most benefits. The goal of MHT is to preserve estradiol signal within the body for a longer period of time, thereby delaying issues with worsening cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and possibly dementia. This time period between the onset of menopause and 10 years postmenopausal is often referred to as the “critical window” for initiation of MHT.

If someone has been in menopause for over 10 years, the lack of estrogen has already created adverse changes in the body — changes much harder to reverse in vascular plaque characteristics and bone structure, for example. Long-term studies also support this, showing worsened cardiovascular outcomes if starting MHT later in life.

So Does MHT Cause Cancer?

At the time of this article, we have no randomized trial that definitively shows MHT causes breast cancer, or any form of cancer for that matter. We even have studies looking at women on MHT who have a family history of breast cancer. Again, there is no increased risk of cancer with MHT.

However, MHT can accelerate cancer once it is present, especially in women with estrogen-receptor or progesterone-receptor positive breast cancers. These women must come off MHT immediately while undergoing breast cancer treatment. Most women after breast cancer will not return to MHT, but there is evidence that MHT may be safe in some women post-breast cancer (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35594465/). That discussion is beyond the scope of this article.

Lastly, women who have a uterus must take estradiol AND progesterone, as we do know that taking estrogen alone increases the risk of endometrial cancer.

Menopause and Health Concerns

The perimenopause to menopause transition is riddled with health complications:

    •    Brain fog, hot flashes, and night sweats — all are symptoms of neuroinflammation

    •    Metabolic dysfunction and worsening cholesterol metrics — all of which contribute to heart disease risk

    •    Increasing body fat, including redistribution of body fat to the midsection

    •    Decline in bone density

    •    Changes in mood, including worsening depression and anxiety

    •    Decline in libido and self-esteem

Health-related risk factors for women after age 60:

    •    Two-thirds of dementia cases are women

    •    A woman’s risk of a heart attack accelerates in their 50s and becomes equal to men by their 60s.

    •    Bone density significantly declines after age 60

Though I cannot say that MHT specifically reduces risk of heart disease or reduces risk of dementia, it is clear to me that MHT can certainly optimize risk factors directly related to these conditions. And optimizing risk factors is always a good thing.

What Are My MHT Options?

Estradiol comes in three different forms: oral tablet, transdermal patch, and a cream. Decisions on which to choose should be personalized but there are some general caveats I often give patients:

    •    Estradiol tablets and patches are covered by insurance but the compounded cream is not.

    •    Transdermal estradiol (patch/cream) is often considered safer than oral estradiol. Oral estradiol may increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, and liver damage, especially in those who smoke, have clotting disorders, suffer from visual migraines, or are obese.

    •    Women with allergy to adhesive may do better with oral estradiol.

    •    Women who are sensitive to hormone therapy may prefer creams, which can be fine-tuned with small dosing adjustments.

Progesterone comes as a capsule and as a compounded cream (you can also get a compounded capsule form, too). All women with a uterus must be on progesterone if they are going to use estradiol.

But What About Bio-identical Hormones?

The term “bio-identical hormones” refers to taking a form of estradiol and progesterone that are structurally similar to the natural forms produced by the body. This was an important distinction when Premarin and Provera were the main options prescribed by clinicians, which do not resemble the natural structures of these hormones.

However, these medications are rarely used anymore. The estradiol found in most prescription patches and tablets is 17B-estradiol, which is the same version of estradiol found in the body. The same is true for progesterone, with clinicians often prescribing micronized progesterone. For all intents and purposes, most forms of estradiol and progesterone prescribed today are now considered bio-identical.

My Clinical Framework on MHT

As a physician interested in health and longevity, I have conversations about MHT almost daily with women in my practice. Decisions around MHT should not be broadly applied but rather tailored to the individual woman, her symptoms, and her risk factors. I am a proponent of MHT for women, especially those who

    •    Have experienced a significant change in their health or quality of life during the early menopausal window.

    •    Are at increased risk of dementia

    •    Have low bone density at the time of menopause

    •    Have hot flashes or night sweats that are distressing

These are chronic conditions that will alter how a woman may experience the last few decades of her life. If we have a treatment with data to prevent this decline, shouldn’t we consider it? The purpose of MHT is not to turn back time but rather to preserve function, functions vital for health, healthspan, and quality of life....]]>The FDA Changed Its Warning. Does that mean you should rethink menopause hormone therapy?

Menopause can be a rough experience for many women: Maybe you’re noticing hot flashes, mood swings, or sudden changes with how your clothes are fitting and are trying to figure out what the heck is going on. You talk with your doctor and agree to start menopause hormone therapy. But when you pick it up, you read on the prescription label: WARNING: ENDOMETRIAL CANCER, CARDIOVASCULAR DISORDERS, BREAST CANCER and PROBABLE DEMENTIA.

Uh, no thanks, Doc. You walk away, and continue to suffer. But at least you aren’t getting cancer, having a heart attack, or losing your mind, right?

Today, I want to talk about menopause hormone therapy (MHT). I want to address the FDA’s decision to remove this warning from estradiol products and why this is a good thing for both women and medical practitioners. I also want to address the many misconceptions as well as best use cases for MHT.

MHT and the Women’s Health Initiative: Where The Confusion Began

The Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) was a large-scale study in the 1990s investigating the impact of MHT for menopausal women in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. It was stopped early (between 2002 and 2004) due to increased risks of breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, and dementia. This trial also coincided with the rapid growth of the 24-hr news cycles and the internet, fueling the spread of these results to millions of people.

As a result of the WHI, the FDA placed a black box warning on all estradiol products warning patients about the increased risks of cancer, heart disease, and dementia. And also as a result, many women came off MHT or refused MHT treatments despite ongoing menopausal symptoms.

Since the publication and rapid spread of these results, many of the researchers have worked for the next 2 decades to backtrack on some of these claims.

    •    Breast cancer risk went from 3 out of every 1000 women to 4 out of every 1000 women, an extremely small risk compared to what the headlines said.

    •    This increased cancer risk was NOT seen in the estradiol-only group but rather in the group that took the estrogen + progestin medication, suggesting that progestin is the more likely culprit.

    •    Cardiovascular disease risk was only seen in women starting MHT later in life. Women starting MHT soon after menopause showed improved cardiovascular risk.

So Why Remove The Black Box Warning?

Black box warnings are necessary to alert patients to the most serious side effects a medication can cause. But since medicine is a constantly evolving science, these warnings can quickly become outdated and inaccurate. The FDA decided to remove the black box warning from estradiol products for this very reason.

    •    We have better medication options for MHT and rarely prescribe the same synthetic hormones used in the study.

    •    Further studies have identified that MHT risk varies by age — the younger you are when you start, the less risk and more benefit.

    •    Black box warnings scare women away from treatments unnecessarily.

This is a change has been long overdue, as many women have been inappropriately scared away from MHT due to this warning.

The Critical Window for MHT

Follow-up studies to the WHI have shown that women who start MHT within 10 years of menopause have the least risk of adverse outcomes and the most benefits. The goal of MHT is to preserve estradiol signal within the body for a longer period of time, thereby delaying issues with worsening cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and possibly dementia. This time period between the onset of menopause and 10 years postmenopausal is often referred to as the “critical window” for initiation of MHT.

If someone has been in menopause for over 10 years, the lack of estrogen has already created adverse changes in the body — changes much harder to reverse in vascular plaque characteristics and bone structure, for example. Long-term studies also support this, showing worsened cardiovascular outcomes if starting MHT later in life.

So Does MHT Cause Cancer?

At the time of this article, we have no randomized trial that definitively shows MHT causes breast cancer, or any form of cancer for that matter. We even have studies looking at women on MHT who have a family history of breast cancer. Again, there is no increased risk of cancer with MHT.

However, MHT can accelerate cancer once it is present, especially in women with estrogen-receptor or progesterone-receptor positive breast cancers. These women must come off MHT immediately while undergoing breast cancer treatment. Most women after breast cancer will not return to MHT, but there is evidence that MHT may be safe in some women post-breast cancer (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35594465/). That discussion is beyond the scope of this article.

Lastly, women who have a uterus must take estradiol AND progesterone, as we do know that taking estrogen alone increases the risk of endometrial cancer.

Menopause and Health Concerns

The perimenopause to menopause transition is riddled with health complications:

    •    Brain fog, hot flashes, and night sweats — all are symptoms of neuroinflammation

    •    Metabolic dysfunction and worsening cholesterol metrics — all of which contribute to heart disease risk

    •    Increasing body fat, including redistribution of body fat to the midsection

    •    Decline in bone density

    •    Changes in mood, including worsening depression and anxiety

    •    Decline in libido and self-esteem

Health-related risk factors for women after age 60:

    •    Two-thirds of dementia cases are women

    •    A woman’s risk of a heart attack accelerates in their 50s and becomes equal to men by their 60s.

    •    Bone density significantly declines after age 60

Though I cannot say that MHT specifically reduces risk of heart disease or reduces risk of dementia, it is clear to me that MHT can certainly optimize risk factors directly related to these conditions. And optimizing risk factors is always a good thing.

What Are My MHT Options?

Estradiol comes in three different forms: oral tablet, transdermal patch, and a cream. Decisions on which to choose should be personalized but there are some general caveats I often give patients:

    •    Estradiol tablets and patches are covered by insurance but the compounded cream is not.

    •    Transdermal estradiol (patch/cream) is often considered safer than oral estradiol. Oral estradiol may increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, and liver damage, especially in those who smoke, have clotting disorders, suffer from visual migraines, or are obese.

    •    Women with allergy to adhesive may do better with oral estradiol.

    •    Women who are sensitive to hormone therapy may prefer creams, which can be fine-tuned with small dosing adjustments.

Progesterone comes as a capsule and as a compounded cream (you can also get a compounded capsule form, too). All women with a uterus must be on progesterone if they are going to use estradiol.

But What About Bio-identical Hormones?

The term “bio-identical hormones” refers to taking a form of estradiol and progesterone that are structurally similar to the natural forms produced by the body. This was an important distinction when Premarin and Provera were the main options prescribed by clinicians, which do not resemble the natural structures of these hormones.

However, these medications are rarely used anymore. The estradiol found in most prescription patches and tablets is 17B-estradiol, which is the same version of estradiol found in the body. The same is true for progesterone, with clinicians often prescribing micronized progesterone. For all intents and purposes, most forms of estradiol and progesterone prescribed today are now considered bio-identical.

My Clinical Framework on MHT

As a physician interested in health and longevity, I have conversations about MHT almost daily with women in my practice. Decisions around MHT should not be broadly applied but rather tailored to the individual woman, her symptoms, and her risk factors. I am a proponent of MHT for women, especially those who

    •    Have experienced a significant change in their health or quality of life during the early menopausal window.

    •    Are at increased risk of dementia

    •    Have low bone density at the time of menopause

    •    Have hot flashes or night sweats that are distressing

These are chronic conditions that will alter how a woman may experience the last few decades of her life. If we have a treatment with data to prevent this decline, shouldn’t we consider it? The purpose of MHT is not to turn back time but rather to preserve function, functions vital for health, healthspan, and quality of life. Doctors and patients need to talk more about MHT and whether it is the right decision or not. My hope is that these conversations will be a lot easier to have now that the black box warning has been removed.

PCOS can feel overwhelming, but understanding your symptoms is the first step toward relief. 

In this short video, Dr. Gus Vickery from Authentic Health uses a real-world case study to break down practical, evidence-informed approaches that can help you feel more in control of your health.

Listen now to see the case study in action and learn what you can start doing today.

While there’s no guaranteed way to never get sick, there are proven, evidence-informed steps you can take to strengthen your immune system, support recovery, and stay healthy this winter.

What Are Winter Viruses?

Every winter, about ten common viruses circulate more widely — including influenza (the flu), RSV, and several coronaviruses. These viruses exist year-round but thrive during the colder months for a few key reasons:

• We spend more time indoors with less ventilation.
• Dry indoor air from heating systems weakens our nasal passages.
• Reduced sunlight exposure lowers Vitamin D levels.
• Fewer in-season fruits and vegetables mean fewer antioxidants in our diet.

Viruses typically enter through the nose, eyes, or mouth, then replicate inside our cells. Symptoms like nasal congestion, sore throat, fever, cough, and fatigue are signs your immune system is fighting back.

Most viral illnesses peak in the first 3–4 days and improve over 7–10 days, though fatigue or a lingering cough can last longer.

How to Protect Yourself from Viral Infections This Winter

1. Support Your Immune System

Think of your immune system as a two-part defense: chronic surveillance (daily protection) and acute reaction (fighting off infections).

Here’s how to build long-term resilience:

• Eat a colorful diet rich in antioxidants from fruits and vegetables.
• Exercise regularly, sleep well, and manage stress.
• Optimize nutrient levels—especially Vitamin D, A, C, zinc, selenium, magnesium, NAC, and Omega-3s.
• Address underlying health issues like gut inflammation, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalances.
• Stay up to date on vaccines for flu, RSV, and COVID-19 to reduce illness severity.
• 
  

Many of our Asheville and Greenville patients in our precision health program report that they rarely get sick once they strengthen these foundations.

2. Strengthen Your Mucosal Defenses

Your nose and mouth are your first line of defense against viruses. Keeping these mucosal surfaces healthy can prevent viruses from taking hold.

Try these local-doctor-approved steps:

• Maintain indoor humidity between 40–60%. Use a humidifier in your home or bedroom during the winter.
• Rinse your nasal passages daily with a saline or xylitol-based irrigation system (such as NeilMed or Xlear).
• Avoid smoke and pollutants, which can damage nasal cells.
• Skip antihistamines unless prescribed—they dry out the nasal mucosa.
• Focus on nasal breathing, even while sleeping. (Mouth taping at night can help encourage this.)
• Continue to optimize your gut health, sleep, and stress levels for an overall stronger immune system.

Tip: Asheville’s winter air can get especially dry, so using a humidifier can make a big difference.

3. Enhance Your Immune Response When You’re Sick

Even with strong defenses, you may still catch a cold or mild flu. The key is to support your immune system so your body can recover faster.

Here’s what to do when you get sick:

• Rest — skip workouts and let your body focus on healing.
• Stay hydrated and continue nasal irrigation.
• Use proven nutrients (like Early Start Immunity ((LINK TO BLOG)) shown to reduce symptom duration and support recovery:

Nutrient

Benefit

Evidence Summary

Zinc

Enhances immune cell production, suppresses viral replication

May shorten cold duration by up to 40% when started early

Vitamin C

Boosts immune cell activity, powerful antioxidant

Shown to shorten illness by about 24 hours

Elderberry

Suppresses influenza activity

May reduce illness duration by 2–4 days

Quercetin

Antioxidant that helps zinc work better

May reduce symptoms by 2–3 days

NAC

Restores glutathione (a master antioxidant)

Can ease lingering coughs

Bromelain

Improves absorption of quercetin and supports mucus breakdown

May help resolve sinus issues faster

Early Start Immunity: Your Asheville and Greenville Cold + Flu Season Companion

When you start feeling sick, you don’t want to scramble for supplements. That’s why we created EarlyStart Immunity, a doctor-formulated blend designed for quick, effective immune support.

EarlyStart Immunity includes:

• Zinc, Vitamin C, Elderberry, Quercetin, NAC, and Bromelain — all in clinical dosages
• Enough for adults in your household
• Convenient packaging for travel or daily use

If you live in Asheville, NC or Greenville, SC, call or message our office today to pick up your bottle of EarlyStart Immunity and stay one step ahead of cold and flu season.

Stay Healthy This Winter

Cold and flu season doesn’t have to derail your plans. By strengthening your immune system, protecting your nasal passages, and acting quickly when symptoms strike, you can stay strong and healthy all winter long.

If you’re in the Asheville or Greenville area and want a personalized immune health plan, contact our clinic today to learn more about precision health programs that help your body perform at its best all year round.

Every few years, a new diet trend takes over grocery store shelves, and right now, it’s protein’s time to shine.

You’ve seen the labels:

• Low Fat!
• Sugar-Free!
• Keto-Friendly!
• All Natural!
• And now… High Protein!

It seems like everything from cereal to chips is getting a “protein boost.” But does adding protein automatically make something healthy? Not exactly. Let’s break down why that shiny “High Protein” label doesn’t always mean a food is good for you.

The Rise of the “Protein Health Halo”

In nutrition marketing, there’s a concept called a “Health Halo.” It’s when a single nutrient or buzzword makes a product seem healthier than it actually is.

Protein is the current superstar of this trend. It’s seen as the nutrient that builds muscle, supports weight loss, and keeps you full, which is true when it comes from whole foods like eggs, fish, beans, or Greek yogurt.

But when brands start adding protein powder to cookies, chips, breakfast pastries, and candy bars, that’s when things get tricky. The health halo hides the fact that many of these products are still ultra-processed junk food, just dressed up with added protein.

Tricky Food Marketing: When “Healthy” Isn’t Healthy

Food companies know that people want to feel good about what they eat. So they use buzzwords, like “plant-based,” “high-fiber,” “non-GMO,” “no artificial sweeteners”,  to give their products a health-conscious image.

But in reality, these claims don’t guarantee nutrition. Often, brands simply add isolated nutrients (like protein powder or inulin fiber) to sugary, refined-carb products. You pay more for what’s essentially the same cookie or chip, just with extra labeling.

Case Study: The “Protein Cookie”

Let’s take a look at one example: the protein cookie.

At first glance, it sounds great,  a cookie that’s good for you! But once you flip the package over, the truth comes out.

The Front of the Package

• 16G Protein — big, bold, and hard to miss.
• Plant-Based Protein — another trendy phrase (as if there’s a “carnivore cookie” out there).
• 10G Fiber — looks impressive, right?

The Back of the Package

The back label is a buzzword playground:

• High protein 
• High fiber 
• Vegan, kosher, non-GMO 
• No artificial sweeteners or corn syrup 
• “Sustainable” palm oil

Sounds like a superfood, right? Let’s check the nutrition facts.

How to Read Nutrition Labels Like a Pro

Here’s what the numbers tell us:

• Serving size: Half a cookie — but who eats half a cookie? Always check the full serving.
• Calories: 460 per cookie. That’s nearly a quarter of your daily intake if you follow a 2,000-calorie diet.
• Saturated fat: 30% of your daily value (higher than a Snickers bar!).
• Sugar: 26g added sugar (again, more than a candy bar).
• Protein: 16g (added from protein powder).
• Fiber: 10g, but mostly from added inulin — not from whole grains.

When you break it down, this “high-protein cookie” is still a dessert. The extra protein doesn’t offset the added sugar, fat, and calories.

Ingredient List: Where the Truth Lives

The first ingredient? Enriched wheat flour — not whole grain, meaning most nutrients and fiber are stripped away.

Then come three forms of sugar: cane sugar, invert sugar, and molasses. This trick, splitting sugars into multiple names, keeps “sugar” from appearing at the top of the ingredient list, but make no mistake: sugar is the real #2 ingredient.

What did they really add to make it “healthy”? Just protein powder and inulin fiber. At the end of the day, it’s a rebranded cookie.

So… Are High-Protein Snacks Worth It?

Some high-protein snacks can be healthy, especially those made with simple, whole ingredients (like Greek yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, roasted chickpeas, or cottage cheese). There’s even a few good protein bars out there (my favorite is Kirkland Signature), just check out the nutrition label beforehand.

But when it comes to processed “protein” versions of traditionally unhealthy foods, the added protein doesn’t cancel out the sugar, refined flour, or saturated fats.

Bottom line: Adding protein to junk food doesn’t make it health food.

How to Outsmart Food Marketing

Next time you’re in the grocery store, here’s what to do:

1. Flip the package. Always read the nutrition label and ingredients list.
2. Watch serving sizes. If you’d realistically eat the whole thing, use that number.
3. Check for added sugars and refined flours. They’re red flags.
4. Focus on whole foods first. Protein from eggs, nuts, yogurt, fish, and legumes beats any “protein cookie.”

Don’t fall for the health halo, no matter how shiny the packaging looks.

Final Thoughts from Authentic Health

At Authentic Health, we’re all about clarity, not confusion. Protein is essential, but balance matters more. When you see “High Protein!” on a package, remember: marketing is not nutrition.

Flip it over, read the label, and make your choice based on facts, not fads.

During every annual physical, I ask my patients about their current lifestyle habits — nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress levels — and where they could show improvement over the coming year. Interestingly, it seems very few people choose exercise.

Instead, I hear things like:

“I walk a good bit at work.”

“I don’t like going to a gym, but I do yard work.”

“I get enough walking my dog every day.” 

“I play golf (but I ride the golf cart)!”

While these are examples of movement (which is also good!), I would not classify them as exercise. Exercise is a stress to the body, an intentional act of pushing us out of our comfort zone, with the goal of improving the body in some way. It requires planning, structure, effort, and recovery to be beneficial for us.

So here’s the real question: Can you be healthy without exercising?

What the Research Says About Exercise and Health

A study published in 2024 sought to answer this. It looked at healthy men aged 28 to 55 years old (normal BMI, no heart disease or diabetes) and divided them into two groups:

1. Active Group: Those who exercised more than 150 minutes per week for at least 6 months
2. Sedentary Group: Those who do not “perform exercise regularly or elevate heart rate outside of daily tasks”.

I really liked how they set up the study. The 150 minutes per week of exercise is a common recommendation by most health organizations and easily attainable by most people, if you are willing to make time for exercise, that is.  Secondly, they only looked at a healthy population, which removes a lot of confounding variables.

Feel free to read the study, but it gets technical very fast. I’m going to give you a high-level review, as I think this matters more than asking you to dust off your cellular biology textbook from high school.

The Hidden Risks of a Sedentary Lifestyle

Poor glucose metabolism

Sedentary men converted 30–36% less glucose into usable energy, which meant more fatigue, more fat storage, and a higher risk of insulin resistance.

Reduced fat burning

Their bodies struggled to convert fat into energy between meals. This led to earlier hunger, poor blood sugar control, and difficulty losing weight.

Increased inflammation

Mitochondria — the “power plants” of cells — became inefficient. Instead of producing clean energy, they generated inflammatory particles, much like an engine running on dirty fuel. Chronic inflammation increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and accelerated aging.

Greater reliance on lactate

With impaired glucose and fat metabolism, sedentary bodies relied more on lactate, a quick but inefficient energy source. This caused faster fatigue during simple activities and made it harder to start exercising later.

Why Exercise Is Non-Negotiable for Health

The conclusion of the study was clear: you cannot be healthy and sedentary.

Exercise is the single best intervention for keeping our mitochondria healthy and efficient energy producers. Without it, your body:

• Burns energy less effectively.
• Produces more inflammation.
• Ages faster and increases disease risk.

Mitochondrial efficiency does not just mean more energy; it is also a major factor in your risk of heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and accelerated aging. 

How to Start Exercising (and Stick With It)

If you’ve been sedentary, the good news is that your mitochondria can “re-learn” how to burn fuel efficiently. But it takes consistency. Here’s how to get started:

1. Create time in your schedule to exercise, preferably a 30-minute to 1-hour chunk 1-3 times per week. If you don’t make time for exercise, you’ll never “have time” to do it.
2. Choose exercises that you can start NOW. I find that the biggest exercise habit destroyer is a program that requires additional effort (purchasing equipment, buying a gym membership, driving to a location, having to learn a new routine, etc). What can you do right now to get started?
3. Start gradually and slowly work up to the “goal” of at least 150 minutes per week (30 minutes 5x per week) with an additional two days of strength training.
4. Be consistent. Small, steady effort matters more than intensity when you’re starting out.

Final Takeaway: Exercise Is Essential

Exercise is not optional if health is the goal. It is the signal your mitochondria need to stay strong, efficient, and resilient. Each workout you choose today builds energy, lowers inflammation, and slows the pace of aging tomorrow.

In this episode, Dr. Troy Jackson shares a real-life story about nearly losing his morning workout to an unexpected wildlife encounter—and the simple shift that kept his habit alive. You’ll discover practical, science-backed strategies for staying motivated, building habits that stick, and making progress even when time and energy are limited.

You’ll learn:

• Why consistency is more important than perfection in building healthy habits
• How to “dial down” workouts, routines, or meal prep instead of skipping altogether
• The neuroscience behind why habits thrive on consistency
• Habit hacks: anchoring to cues, connecting habits to your “why,” and planning for disruptions
• How to protect your routines (and your motivation) from life’s inevitable curveballs

If you’ve struggled to stay on track with exercise, nutrition, or self-care routines, this episode will give you actionable tips to keep your habits strong—no matter what gets in the way.

If you’re ready to take control of your health and build strength that lasts a lifetime, this episode is for you.

Action steps:

Subscribe and leave a review to help spread the word.

Join our blog at www.authentichealth.com/blog

Subscribe to our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@AuthenticHealthAVL

If you want to work directly with us, please check out our options at www.authentichealth.com

When it comes to exercise, most people think about cardio — running, swimming, biking, walking. But what if the real key to lasting health is building and maintaining muscle? Muscle is more than just strength or aesthetics; it’s a metabolic powerhouse that protects your brain, bones, hormones, and ultimately the quality of your life. In this episode, we break down why muscle matters and how you can start building it effectively at any age.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why muscle loss accelerates aging and increases risk for chronic diseases
• The broad benefits of strength training for mental health, balance, and metabolism
• Simple ways to get started with strength training
• The concept of functional fitness and why it’s essential for aging well
• Tips to stay challenged, progress safely, and avoid plateaus
• How much protein you really need and best sources to fuel muscle growth

If you’re ready to take control of your health and build strength that lasts a lifetime, this episode is for you.

Action steps:

Subscribe and leave a review to help spread the word.

Join our blog at www.authentichealth.com/blog

If you want to work directly with us, please check out our options at www.authentichealth.com

Whether you’re commuting, walking, or just prefer to listen rather than read or watch, this podcast is designed to deliver meaningful, physician-guided health content — on your terms.

Topics Covered:

• Why we launched this podcast
• Why modern medicine didn't align with our values as physicians
• A new model of primary care: intensive focus on healthspan and vitality
• The foundational belief that the body wants to heal
• What to expect in future episodes

About Authentic Health:

Founded by Dr. Troy Jackson and Dr. Gus Vickery, Authentic Health is a direct primary care and precision health clinic in Asheville, NC. We blend deep physician-patient relationships, advanced testing, and personalized care to help patients heal, thrive, and live with vitality.

Stay Connected:

• Website: AuthenticHealth.com
• Blog & Newsletter: Click Here for written versions of podcast topics
• YouTube: Watch video versions of episodes
• Contact: Have a topic request? We’d love to hear from you. Email us directly at hello@authentichealth.com.

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