Cover art for a podcast titled 'A Functional Approach' featuring Dr. Jim Chialtas, DACM, with a smiling older man wearing a stethoscope and dark gray shirt, against a beige background with a medicine-related pattern.

Blog & Podcast

Welcome to my blog, where you’ll find articles and links to my podcast episodes.

If you’d like to discuss your health concerns or ask some specific questions, please contact me and we can get started on your journey to balanced health!

Boosting BDNF: The Brain Fertilizer for Mood, Memory, and Mental Health
Podcasts and interviews, Brain Health Jim Chialtas, DACM Podcasts and interviews, Brain Health Jim Chialtas, DACM

Boosting BDNF: The Brain Fertilizer for Mood, Memory, and Mental Health

In this 151st episode, we unpack Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) — often called “fertilizer for the brain.” We explore what BDNF is, why it matters for learning, memory, and mood, and how low BDNF shows up in conditions like depression, cognitive decline, and neurodegenerative disease.

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Welcoming a New Year with Open Hearts
Podcasts and interviews Jim Chialtas, DACM Podcasts and interviews Jim Chialtas, DACM

Welcoming a New Year with Open Hearts

In this 146th (bonus) episode, I riff a bit on the concept of ritual as we turn the page of a new year. The focus and motivation of the episode though is one of gratitude and connection. This podcast has covered a lot of topics, but if there is one concept that I hope comes through strongly it is that we are all in this thing together.

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Understanding Testosterone Use: A Personal Choice with Potential Consequences
Functional Medicine, Hormonal Health Jim Chialtas, DACM Functional Medicine, Hormonal Health Jim Chialtas, DACM

Understanding Testosterone Use: A Personal Choice with Potential Consequences

Considering testosterone therapy? It's vital to know the risks beyond the benefits. Discover how HRT can disrupt your body's natural hormone balance and why "testosterone overload" can have permanent consequences. Read the full article to make an informed decision about your hormonal health.

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Uncovering Hidden Causes of Heart Disease
Functional Medicine, Heart Health Jim Chialtas, DACM Functional Medicine, Heart Health Jim Chialtas, DACM

Uncovering Hidden Causes of Heart Disease

If you’re concerned about plaque buildup or heart disease, don’t settle for a cholesterol-only approach. There is a growing body of evidence pointing to infections and inflammation as significant, yet often overlooked, contributors. Lowering cholesterol may be helpful, but without addressing underlying infections and inflammation, the progression of heart disease may continue unchecked.

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Understanding Your Thyroid Hormones

Understanding Your Thyroid Hormones

Do you ever wonder why you feel terrible, yet your doctor tells you that everything is normal? Perhaps you are experiencing low energy, hair loss, weight gain, constipation, or depression, but nobody can explain why. It is quite possible that you have an underlying thyroid imbalance.

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