PhD Explains: Why High-Dose Biotin Could be the Answer for Your Blood Sugar, Brains, and Beauty Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2026-09-23 | PhD Explains: Why High-Dose Biotin Could be the Answer for Your Blood Sugar, Brains, and Beauty
How to slow or reverse graying of hair? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-08-14 | Question: How to slow graying of hairs and potentially reverse it?Short Answer: What works for any given individual will likely be to find the weakest link and fix it, from among the following systems: the signaling of energy abundance (body fat, insulin sensitivity, thyroid hormone, adequate protein, individualized meeting of carbohydrate needs, good management of psychosocial stress, supporting neuroendocrine signaling with copper, vitamin C, zinc, and glycine, and supporting thyroid function with iodine and selenium); the biochemical infrastructure of energy production (all the B vitamins, iron, copper, sulfur, magnesium, potassium, and managing genetic idiosyncrasies impacting energy metabolism), and antioxidant protection (protein, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper, selenium, iron, and manganese).This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-hair-graying-copperIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answer to this question:*What is the relationship between copper and estrogen?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the March 14, 2023 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*What is the relationship between copper and estrogen?*What about that new erythritol study?*Can nicotinamide riboside cause hemolytic anemia in someone with G6PDH deficiency?*Why is citric acid alkalinizing?*If I switch my vitamin E to tocotrienols, am I missing anything?*Vitamin A deficiency and toxicity symptoms at the same time?*Vitamin A in pregnancy*How long should I wait to measure whole blood riboflavin after making a change to my supplement?*How to stack supplements for blood pressure?*Rejuvant calcium alpha-ketoglutarate for anti-aging?*Are dietary AGEs a problem?*Is it safe to keep taking high-dose zinc?*What’s the best way to get phosphorus?*Weight loss question.*How to eat to 80% fullHere’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-march
How Much Iron Can We Absorb At Once? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-07-31 | Question: How much iron can we absorb at once?Short Answer: High-dose iron will produce more total absorbed iron, but will also leave more in the gut, which could cause constipation or disturb the gut microbiome. If desperate for quick relief, 200 milligrams per day of iron taken in the morning will work faster than lower doses or the same dose taken in the afternoon. For most people, however, I believe it is best to start with 18 milligrams of iron, and only increase it to 27 or 36 milligrams, or higher, if needed. If it is difficult to raise iron with a supplement, try eating a temporary carnivore diet that includes egg yolks but not whites, or at least try taking your iron with a breakfast that matches this description.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-vitamin-d-sulfate-synthesisIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:Is It Important to Get Vitamin D Sulfate Specifically From the Sun?What cofactors are needed to synthesize and recycle BH4?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the February 15, 2023 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Is It Important to Get Vitamin D Sulfate Specifically From the Sun?*What cofactors are needed to synthesize and recycle BH4?*What nutrients are important for long-term PPI use?*For how long does transferrin saturation respond to recent iron-rich food?*Muscle spasms: creatine, creatinine, sodium, and potassium.*Hematologists ignore iron saturation.*How to detox arsenic?*Could folic acid supplements impair BH4 recycling?*How to increase butyrate?*More on hematologists and transferrin saturation.Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-february
What cofactors are needed to synthesize and recycle BH4? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-07-17 | Question: What cofactors are needed to synthesize and recycle BH4?Short Answer: Zinc, magnesium, potassium, and niacin are the cofactors needed for the synthesis and recycling of BH4. Folate and methylation are not involved, though high-dose folate or folic acid could hypothetically hurt BH4 recycling since both are recycled by dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR).This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-vitamin-d-sulfate-synthesisIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Is It Important to Get Vitamin D Sulfate Specifically From the Sun?*How Much Iron Can We Absorb At Once?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the February 15, 2023 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Is It Important to Get Vitamin D Sulfate Specifically From the Sun?*How Much Iron Can We Absorb At Once?*What nutrients are important for long-term PPI use?*For how long does transferrin saturation respond to recent iron-rich food?*Muscle spasms: creatine, creatinine, sodium, and potassium.*Hematologists ignore iron saturation.*How to detox arsenic?*Could folic acid supplements impair BH4 recycling?*How to increase butyrate?*More on hematologists and transferrin saturation.Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-february
Is It Important to Get Vitamin D Sulfate Specifically From the Sun? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-07-03 | Question: Is it important to get vitamin D sulfate specifically from the sun?Short Answer: It is important to get morning outdoor sunlight as close to every day as possible for your circadian rhythm, and to get some exposure to unprotected sunlight during the day when UV is available, but at doses less than needed to cause reddening, and it is equally important to always avoid burning. There are many reasons for this, and the cholesterol sulfate hypothesis — to which the vitamin D sulfate hypothesis is peripheral — is an interesting and worthy hypothesis but should not be the final arbiter of your sun exposure habits.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-vitamin-d-sulfate-synthesisIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*What cofactors are needed to synthesize and recycle BH4?*How Much Iron Can We Absorb At Once?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the February 15, 2023 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*What cofactors are needed to synthesize and recycle BH4?*How Much Iron Can We Absorb At Once?*What nutrients are important for long-term PPI use?*For how long does transferrin saturation respond to recent iron-rich food?*Muscle spasms: creatine, creatinine, sodium, and potassium.*Hematologists ignore iron saturation.*How to detox arsenic?*Could folic acid supplements impair BH4 recycling?*How to increase butyrate?*More on hematologists and transferrin saturation.Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-february
When to Consider Inborn Errors of Metabolism Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-06-24 | These are considered rare, yet this reinforces the pattern of never looking for them, leading them to likely be massively under-diagnosed.Disclaimer: I am not a medical doctor and this is not medical advice.Written version:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/when-to-consider-inborn-errors-ofMitochondrial Energy Summit:drtalks.com/mitochondrial-summit/?uid=406&oid=47&ref=3053My MTHFR Protocol:chrismasterjohnphd.com/blog/2019/03/01/start-here-for-mthfr-and-methylation
Can B12 and Folate Help Detoxify Oxalate? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-06-23 | This may explain why high-dose biotin causes "oxalate dumping" symptoms in some people but not others.Written and referenced version:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/can-b12-and-folate-help-detoxifyMitochondrial Energy Summit:drtalks.com/mitochondrial-summit/?uid=406&oid=47&ref=3053My MTHFR Protocol:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/mthfr-protocol
How to Recover From Fish Oil Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-06-20 | Iris from Denmark has generously donated an hour of her consulting time with me to you, the community, so that her case can be used to raise awareness of the importance of arachidonic acid and the pitfalls of getting too much EPA.In this video, we cover:00:27 Iris's history of too much omega-3 and not enough omega-6.01:52 The symptoms that have improved upon reversing this.04:54 Is it correct that the body needs both arachidonic acid and DHA to resolve inflammation?09:03 How to navigate this during pregnancy, where DHA and AA are both important for the baby but EPA is still a concern?14:06 Does the body have a storage supply of omega-3?18:00 What is more important, AA/EPA balance or total PUFA intake? What is more harmful, signaling compound imbalance, oxidative damage, or membrane fluidity distortion?31:05 Is the proper strategy supplementing AA while reducing EPA, or is it getting more vitamin E?33:30 What about the ratio of PUFA to saturated fat or total fat?35:55 Vitamin E cannot protect against all the risks of PUFA. Here are the other things that matter.41:50 Supporting the marine ecology.
Hereditary weakness in breaking down branched-chain amino acids: considerations and restrictions. Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-06-19 | Question: If a person has a hereditary weakness for Branched Chain Amino Acid Catabolism would this impact the type of diet they might choose to loose weight? Should they limit protein if it will increase their need for nutrients like Biotin?What are all the possible cofactors we should consider supplementing to support Leucine catabolism?Short Answer: Metabolizing branched-chain amino acids requires all B vitamins except folate, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and chloride. If you have a genetic impairment in this pathway, then reducing branched-chain amino acid intake and doubling down on cofactors is important during weight loss because the pathway will be stressed more in the catabolic state.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-plant-compounds-andIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Can plant foods and their phytochemicals be used to reduce arterial plaque?*How do I consume omega-3 without hurting my omega-6 status?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the January 21, 2023 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Can plant foods and their phytochemicals be used to reduce arterial plaque?*How do I consume omega-3 without hurting my omega-6 status?*Could carnitine help a fatty acid oxidation disorder?*Should anti-inflammatories be taken away from workouts?*How does vitamin C affect autoimmune disease?*Folate form and purines*Can methylene blue help the respiratory chain?*Best references for omega-3 and inflammation resolution?*Smoothies and blood sugar*Is transdermal magnesium oil effective for osteoarthritis?*Why do K2 and Mg help my nerve pain?*Should I separate my potassium benzoate and vitamin C supplements?*The best and most simple comprehensive micronutrient panel.*How much K2 is needed in pregnancy?*How do I accentuate the fasting-feeding cycle?*Could K2 help with environmental pollution?*Why do shoulders crack when we get older?*Why do I react poorly to anti-inflammatory foods?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-january
How do I consume omega-3 without hurting my omega-6 status? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-06-05 | Question: If I don’t want to hurt my omega 6 status through my omega 3 intake, how do I do that? Is it simply a question of taking them at separate times? Or is it a question of dose? And if it is a question of dose, how do I know when to start eating fish and taking my omega 3 supplement again?Short Answer: How they are combined in meals is not important, but it is important not to have too much EPA in cell membranes relative to arachidonic acid, and this is driven by cumulative intake over years. For someone who has consumed too much EPA for many years, the best approach is to eat liver and egg yolks for arachidonic acid while getting omega-3s from a DHA supplement and not from fish, fish oil, or fish liver oil.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-plant-compounds-andIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Can plant foods and their phytochemicals be used to reduce arterial plaque?*If I have a hereditary weakness in breaking down branched-chain amino acids, what cofactors do I need to consider, and do I need to restrict my protein when losing weight?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the January 21, 2023 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Can plant foods and their phytochemicals be used to reduce arterial plaque?*If I have a hereditary weakness in breaking down branched-chain amino acids, what cofactors do I need to consider, and do I need to restrict my protein when losing weight?*Could carnitine help a fatty acid oxidation disorder?*Should anti-inflammatories be taken away from workouts?*How does vitamin C affect autoimmune disease?*Folate form and purines*Can methylene blue help the respiratory chain?*Best references for omega-3 and inflammation resolution?*Smoothies and blood sugar*Is transdermal magnesium oil effective for osteoarthritis?*Why do K2 and Mg help my nerve pain?*Should I separate my potassium benzoate and vitamin C supplements?*The best and most simple comprehensive micronutrient panel.*How much K2 is needed in pregnancy?*How do I accentuate the fasting-feeding cycle?*Could K2 help with environmental pollution?*Why do shoulders crack when we get older?*Why do I react poorly to anti-inflammatory foods?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-january
Energy Metabolism Governs Everything Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-05-31 | That was not an exaggeration. Everything.In this video I cover why riboflavin abolished my allergies, why a respiratory chain disorder could cause an autoimmune condition, and why a hypothetical athlete who went keto to take home the silver might be able to use thiamin to take home the gold.Most importantly, I cover why these are idiosyncratic needs, not general rules. The generalizable principle is that nothing is more central to life and health than energy.Read the written version with links here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/energy-metabolism-governs-everythingGet the methylation protocol here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/mthfr-protocolCheck out my course on energy metabolism here:youtube.com/watch?v=F5G3siypLkA&list=PLcSx_MmjlCbDqceBuJl4Rqsd2dCNPvKQ7
BREAKING: I found a secret way to get raw cream in urban coffee shops. Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-05-28 | ...
Can plant foods and their phytochemicals be used to reduce arterial plaque? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-05-22 | Question: Can plant foods and their phytochemicals be used to reduce arterial plaque?Short Answer: Yes, but if you don’t have specific intolerances to plant compounds the best thing to do is simply aim to meet your vitamin and mineral targets from a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices, rather than trying to use specific plant compounds from specific studies in any specific amount.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-plant-compounds-andIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*How do I consume omega-3 without hurting my omega-6 status?*If I have a hereditary weakness in breaking down branched-chain amino acids, what cofactors do I need to consider, and do I need to restrict my protein when losing weight?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the January 21, 2023 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Can plant foods and their phytochemicals be used to reduce arterial plaque?*How do I consume omega-3 without hurting my omega-6 status?*If I have a hereditary weakness in breaking down branched-chain amino acids, what cofactors do I need to consider, and do I need to restrict my protein when losing weight?*Could carnitine help a fatty acid oxidation disorder?*Should anti-inflammatories be taken away from workouts?*How does vitamin C affect autoimmune disease?*Folate form and purines*Can methylene blue help the respiratory chain?*Best references for omega-3 and inflammation resolution?*Smoothies and blood sugar*Is transdermal magnesium oil effective for osteoarthritis?*Why do K2 and Mg help my nerve pain?*Should I separate my potassium benzoate and vitamin C supplements?*The best and most simple comprehensive micronutrient panel.*How much K2 is needed in pregnancy?*How do I accentuate the fasting-feeding cycle?*Could K2 help with environmental pollution?*Why do shoulders crack when we get older?*Why do I react poorly to anti-inflammatory foods?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-january
What to Do About Twitching Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-05-08 | Question: What can be done about twitching?Short Answer: Most twitching will be driven by glutamate/GABA balance or acetylcholine regulation, and the most likely nutritional issues are any of the electrolytes or any factor that influences energy metabolism. The best way to address it is to consider the conditions that influence it and then trial and error your way through each potential nutritional issue in order of which ones make the most sense for your individual case first.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-phosphatidylcholineIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Phosphatidylcholine and TMAO*Vitamin K2 and Undercarboxylated OsteocalcinIf you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the December 14, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Inositol, What Is It Good For?*If I am at risk of heart disease, and phosphatidylcholine raises my TMAO, should I stop the supplement?*Maragen Calcium*Could slow methylation cause high selenium levels?*My current thoughts on cholesterol and heart disease*If I already have oxidative stress, what ducks should I have in a row before supplementing with iron?*Is it safe to take eight milligrams of zinc daily without copper?*What to do about developing sensitivities to an increasingly broad range of foods?*What else to do about hemochromatosis besides phlebotomy?*If gestational diabetes is just a biotin deficiency, why are women who are insulin resistant prior to pregnancy at higher risk for it, including women with PCOS?*What to do about chronically elevated amylase and lipase?*What to do about a non-drinker having very high GGT and occasionally high ALT?*What are the most common vitamin and mineral deficiencies?*What are the best supplements, vitamins, and minerals for OCD and depression?*What is the connection between low pyruvate and high ketones?*Is high LDL a concern if the carotid IMT and coronary calcium scan are clear? *An algorithm to fix twitching*Do I trust food allergy tests?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-december
Can Biotin Help Detoxify Oxalate? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-04-19 | This is a hypothesis that may reconcile some anecdotes and has many hints suggested in the enzymological literature.First, make sure you get my MTHFR Protocol, my free 7-page quick guide to optimizing and personalizing your methylation status, here: chrismasterjohnphd.com/blog/2019/03/01/start-here-for-mthfr-and-methylationFor the written version with references, as well as the 58 comments, including from Susan Owens, head over to Substack:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/can-biotin-help-detoxify-oxalate
Vitamin K2 and Undercarboxylated Osteocalcin Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-04-17 | Question: If undercarboxylated osteocalcin has health benefits, and vitamin K2 decreases it, what does that mean for K2 supplementation?Short Answer: Vitamin K2 helps secure osteocalcin in bone matrix, where it is decarboxylated and released as an endocrine hormone in response to certain stimuli. When released, it acts to optimize insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity, fuel use during exercise, and male testosterone.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-phosphatidylcholineIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Phosphatidylcholine and TMAO*What to Do About TwitchingIf you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the December 14, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Inositol, What Is It Good For?*If I am at risk of heart disease, and phosphatidylcholine raises my TMAO, should I stop the supplement?*Maragen Calcium*Could slow methylation cause high selenium levels?*My current thoughts on cholesterol and heart disease*If I already have oxidative stress, what ducks should I have in a row before supplementing with iron?*Is it safe to take eight milligrams of zinc daily without copper?*What to do about developing sensitivities to an increasingly broad range of foods?*What else to do about hemochromatosis besides phlebotomy?*If gestational diabetes is just a biotin deficiency, why are women who are insulin resistant prior to pregnancy at higher risk for it, including women with PCOS?*What to do about chronically elevated amylase and lipase?*What to do about a non-drinker having very high GGT and occasionally high ALT?*What are the most common vitamin and mineral deficiencies?*What are the best supplements, vitamins, and minerals for OCD and depression?*What is the connection between low pyruvate and high ketones?*Is high LDL a concern if the carotid IMT and coronary calcium scan are clear? *An algorithm to fix twitching*Do I trust food allergy tests?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-december
Self Experiments In the Biochemically Unoptimized State Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-04-12 | Finally, the long-awaited results of my self-experiments conducted from September through January are released! First, make sure you get my MTHFR Protocol, my free 7-page quick guide to optimizing and personalizing your methylation status, here:chrismasterjohnphd.com/blog/2019/03/01/start-here-for-mthfr-and-methylationThe primary abnormalities in my metabolism during this pre-biotin period were 1) 15 minutes of paradoxical rise in ketones after eating rice, 2) paradoxical rise in lactate during fasting that is suppressed by my meals, and 3) a massively outsized lactate response to alcohol. The first two were provoked by an 18-hour fast and the last by undereating prior to the alcohol. These support a deficiency in the biotin-dependent, manganese-dependent, oxalate-poisoned enzyme pyruvate carboxylase. This is long, and if your time is limited, you may want to skip to “The Bottom Line” in this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/self-experiments-in-the-biochemicallyHowever, there are some major reasons to commit some time to reading the whole report:It serves as a crash course on the most relevant biochemistry of glucose, ketones, lactate, and ethanol across contexts that include general health, diabetes, infancy, and pregnancy.It includes a literature review of all of the relevant “normal” data. For example, what usually happens to lactate during fasting? What is the normal response of ketones to a glucose tolerance test at the 15-minute mark? How high should you expect your lactate to go up when you drink vodka, bourbon, or beer?I have laid out a model of self-experimentation that you can borrow from for your own experiments.There are many thought-provoking nuggets in here. For example:Is it possible that two pounds of extra body fat prevents peripheral neuropathy in me and perhaps others? I make the case that it may.Has your fasting glucose gone up on low-carb? See why mine went down after doing repeated glucose tolerance tests on myself (which I don’t recommend at home!)And, learn why I can fast my way to a glucose of 70 or eat my way to a glucose of 70 and I would choose eating my way there every time.The full written version with linked references is found here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/self-experiments-in-the-biochemicallyAnd don't forget to get my MTHFR Protocol, my free 7-page quick guide to optimizing and personalizing your methylation status, here:chrismasterjohnphd.com/blog/2019/03/01/start-here-for-mthfr-and-methylation
My MTHFR Protocol Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-04-12 | I have a free gift for you.That is my MTHFR Protocol, a 7-page quick guide to optimizing and personalizing your methylation status using foods and supplements.My MTHFR Protocol is free to anyone who subscribes to my Substack, whether free or paid.Use this link to get your copy:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/mthfr-protocolI hope you enjoy your free gift and find it useful.
Getting to the Bottom of My Health: Biotin and (V)LCAD Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-04-06 | For nearly 20 years, I have strongly suspected that I have a genetic disorder in synthesizing or recycling something that is absent or poorly available from plant foods, is very rich in organ meats, and is not present in any of the supplements I was taking when I was a vegan.After six months of research, testing, and self-experimenting, I now believe what I have been looking for is a mix of moderate genetic defects in biotin recycling, possibly combined with poor cellular uptake of biotin, and definitely combined with a defect in burning long-chain fatty acids for energy. The treatments for this, which I will be testing one at a time, will be high-dose biotin, high-dose riboflavin, possibly high-dose L-carnitine and glycine, and, if needed, an otherwise low-fat diet supplemented with C8-specific MCT oil.This episode covers the content of the first of two articles I have written up on Substack.First, I have a free gift for you: my MTHFR Protocol. This 7-page quick guide to optimizing your MTHFR status using foods and supplements is freely available to all subscribers to my Substack. Subscribe now and you will immediately get it emailed to you in the welcome email. You can subscribe here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/mthfr-protocolThe content of this episode can be found in the written version, with live links, here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/getting-to-the-bottom-of-my-healthThe second article that will be covered in the next episode is about my self-experiments between September 2022 and June 2023 in the "biochemically unoptimized state" and can be found here: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/self-experiments-in-the-biochemically
Phosphatidylcholine and TMAO Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-04-03 | Question: If I'm at risk of heart disease and phosphatidylcholine increases my TMAO, should I stop the supplement?Short Answer: On a scale of one to ten, my concern about TMAO and cardiovascular disease is a three. There are thousands of things that should be given equal weight as potential contributors to heart disease, but TMAO gets the most attention because the Cleveland Clinic has an incredible PR machine to spread their research, which serves to bolster their financial interest in marketing the test. That said, it is not a universal necessity to supplement with phosphatidylcholine. If you are concerned about your TMAO, you can try substituting trimethylglycine (TMG), and ultimately judge the value of each supplement by whether it is helping you in a demonstrable way.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-phosphatidylcholineIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Vitamin K2 and Undercarboxylated Osteocalcin*What to Do About TwitchingIf you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the December 14, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Inositol, What Is It Good For?*If undercarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOCN) has health benefits and vitamin K2 decreases it, what does that mean for vitamin K2 supplementation?*Maragen Calcium*Could slow methylation cause high selenium levels?*My current thoughts on cholesterol and heart disease*If I already have oxidative stress, what ducks should I have in a row before supplementing with iron?*Is it safe to take eight milligrams of zinc daily without copper?*What to do about developing sensitivities to an increasingly broad range of foods?*What else to do about hemochromatosis besides phlebotomy?*If gestational diabetes is just a biotin deficiency, why are women who are insulin resistant prior to pregnancy at higher risk for it, including women with PCOS?*What to do about chronically elevated amylase and lipase?*What to do about a non-drinker having very high GGT and occasionally high ALT?*What are the most common vitamin and mineral deficiencies?*What are the best supplements, vitamins, and minerals for OCD and depression?*What is the connection between low pyruvate and high ketones?*Is high LDL a concern if the carotid IMT and coronary calcium scan are clear? *An algorithm to fix twitching*Do I trust food allergy tests?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-december
Does Erythritol Cause Heart Disease? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-03-24 | This analysis of the recent study by the Hazen group at Cleveland Clinic published in Nature Medicine claiming erythritol contributes to cardiovascular disease shows the following:1) Why elevated plasma erythritol is likely to reflect thiamin deficiency and NADPH depletion from insulin resistance, inflammation, and oxidative stress2) Why the in vitro and mouse study blood clotting likely reflects osmotic stress with no relevance to the use of erythritol as a sweetener.3) Why I strongly suspect the Hazen group is hiding data, specifically the data that they obviously had a chance to collect and would have clinched their case but appears nowhere in their paper.4) Why even though I do not use erythritol as a sweetener, were I ever to think about doing so, the new Nature Medicine paper would play no role in my decision.Read the analysis in written form, fully referenced, here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/erythritol-and-blood-clotting
Low Blood Sugar on Vegan Keto Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-03-20 | Question: How do I fix low blood sugar on vegan keto?Short Answer: Consider how important it is for your ketones to be elevated. Most likely you need to eat more protein, which will lower your ketones. I would aim for a minimum of 0.8 grams per kilogram of ideal bodyweight and consider using 1.2 grams per kilogram of ideal bodyweight. If this does not work, consider all of the nutrients involved in energy metabolism — all of the B vitamins, iron, copper, sulfur, magnesium, potassium — but especially biotin and B6 for their disproportionate role in gluconeogenesis. If the protein you need to normalize your blood sugar does reduce your ketones to a level that are not giving you the benefits you are looking for, you could consider raising them with exogenous ketones.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-questions-on-supplementsIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Brain Fog on Calcium, Vitamin D, or K2*Raising Ceruloplasmin When Copper Won't Do ItIf you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the November 19, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Brain Fog on Calcium, Vitamin D, or K2*How Do I Increase My ATP?*Nutrition for Recovery from Alcoholism*How to decrease MCV after chemo?*What happened to vitamin B4?*Should I eat foods specifically for their antioxidant status?*How do I get my ceruloplasmin up if copper doesn't raise it?*Why would bovine serum immunoglobulins help gut health?*Nicotinamide Riboside and Cancer*If I need lecithin for gut health, should I worry about its omega-6?*What do I think of patented Sucrosomial magnesium and zinc?*Is my problem magnesium transport or magnesium excretion?*What to do about severe osteoarthritis and muscle stiffness?*Should I worry if 5 mg P5P raises my plasma B6 above normal?*Is nascent iodine safe when weaning off of thyroid hormone?*How to avoid false zeros in Cronometer?*What does it mean if I have more energy when taking CoQ10?*If NADPH oxidase is unregulated to fight pathogens, is taking antioxidants good or bad?*What if my needs for vitamin A and zinc are higher than the tolerable upper intake levels?*How accurate are vitamin E tests?*Quick redux on muscle stiffness*How do I handle my first emergence from lockdown if I am worried about being relatively immunosuppressed?*If I supplement with iodine, do I need to supplement with selenium?*Should I worry about the beta-carotene in my multivitamin?*Why do I wake up tense and with a headache to my alarm clock?*Why does starch make me wake up in the middle of the night with increased respiration?*What causes crusty eyes?*Which nutrients need to be spread out across the day?*What are nutritional causes of hypnic jerks?*To replicate Weston Price's reversal of tooth decay, do I need dairy?*Why would I have a bad reaction to milk thistle?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-november
Brain Fog on Calcium, Vitamin D, or K2 Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-03-06 | *Question: Why would vitamin D, vitamin K2, and calcium give me brain fog?Short Answer: Most likely by decreasing serum phosphorus. The solution is to balance these nutrients with vitamin A and phosphorus.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-questions-on-supplementsIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Low Blood Sugar on Vegan Keto*Raising Ceruloplasmin When Copper Won't Do ItIf you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the November 19, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Low Blood Sugar on Vegan Keto*How Do I Increase My ATP?*Nutrition for Recovery from Alcoholism*How to decrease MCV after chemo?*What happened to vitamin B4?*Should I eat foods specifically for their antioxidant status?*How do I get my ceruloplasmin up if copper doesn't raise it?*Why would bovine serum immunoglobulins help gut health?*Nicotinamide Riboside and Cancer*If I need lecithin for gut health, should I worry about its omega-6?*What do I think of patented Sucrosomial magnesium and zinc?*Is my problem magnesium transport or magnesium excretion?*What to do about severe osteoarthritis and muscle stiffness?*Should I worry if 5 mg P5P raises my plasma B6 above normal?*Is nascent iodine safe when weaning off of thyroid hormone?*How to avoid false zeros in Cronometer?*What does it mean if I have more energy when taking CoQ10?*If NADPH oxidase is unregulated to fight pathogens, is taking antioxidants good or bad?*What if my needs for vitamin A and zinc are higher than the tolerable upper intake levels?*How accurate are vitamin E tests?*Quick redux on muscle stiffness*How do I handle my first emergence from lockdown if I am worried about being relatively immunosuppressed?*If I supplement with iodine, do I need to supplement with selenium?*Should I worry about the beta-carotene in my multivitamin?*Why do I wake up tense and with a headache to my alarm clock?*Why does starch make me wake up in the middle of the night with increased respiration?*What causes crusty eyes?*Which nutrients need to be spread out across the day?*What are nutritional causes of hypnic jerks?*To replicate Weston Price's reversal of tooth decay, do I need dairy?*Why would I have a bad reaction to milk thistle?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-november
Why Plasma Zinc is the Best Marker of Zinc Status Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-02-20 | Short Answer: Plasma zinc is the single most important marker of zinc status. Urine zinc may decline faster in deficiency. Hair zinc increases with supplementation but does not decrease in deficiency. Plasma zinc is decreased by inflammation, oxidative stress, the ovulatory and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle, probably pregnancy and oral contraceptive use, and any kind of stress that leads to an adrenal output. If plasma zinc declines despite supplementation, corroborate that this reflects zinc status by showing normal hair zinc and low urine zinc. Use symptoms as the ultimate arbiter of whether zinc supplementation is helping.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-statins-versus-sulfurIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Statins Vs. Sulfur for Heart Disease*Glutathione Intolerance: Getting to the Bottom of ItIf you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the October 12, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*NADH vs NMN vs NR*An unexplained rise in urine ketones*Spreading out calcium across meals*What should we have in our cold season cabinet?*What besides diet could cause my high morning glucose on a CGM?*Will some older people benefit from supplementing carnitine?*What do I think about the CGM fad?*Could my low triglycerides be cholestasis?*Why limit the dose of cod liver oil?*Why do I always feel better when my sulfur problems are worse?*Should I use one lab’s reference range with another lab’s results?*Is it safe to eat roasted potatoes?*How much weight should I give genetic SNPs in my nutrition?*High RBC magnesium but low serum: what could it mean?*Burning in the stomach: what could it be?*Should I treat low plasma amino acids by supplementing them?*Why would MK-4 cause heart palpitations?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-october
Glutathione Intolerance: Getting to the Bottom of It Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-02-06 | Short Answer: It could be byproducts of any of the three amino acids that make up the glutathione molecule, which include the individual amino acids, ammonia, hydrogen sulfide, sulfite, and propionyl CoA, or it could be microbial metabolites of glutathione produced in the gut. The full answer contains seven hypothesis-driven tests that can be done at home to determine the cause.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-statins-versus-sulfurIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Statins Vs. Sulfur for Heart Disease*Why Plasma Zinc is the Best Marker of Zinc StatusIf you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the October 12, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*NADH vs NMN vs NR*An unexplained rise in urine ketones*Spreading out calcium across meals*What should we have in our cold season cabinet?*What besides diet could cause my high morning glucose on a CGM?*Will some older people benefit from supplementing carnitine?*What do I think about the CGM fad?*Could my low triglycerides be cholestasis?*Why limit the dose of cod liver oil?*Why do I always feel better when my sulfur problems are worse?*Should I use one lab’s reference range with another lab’s results?*Is it safe to eat roasted potatoes?*How much weight should I give genetic SNPs in my nutrition?*High RBC magnesium but low serum: what could it mean?*Burning in the stomach: what could it be?*Should I treat low plasma amino acids by supplementing them?*Why would MK-4 cause heart palpitations?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-october
Have a Beer With Masterjohn Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-02-04 | Let's chat while I do some metabolic experiments that require drinking a beer :)
Statins Vs. Sulfur for Heart Disease Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-01-23 | Short Answer: From the trials, statins seem to reduce heart disease risk and total mortality, but it is impossible to separate this from conflicts of interest and industry funding. There are plausible mechanisms by which they may hurt mitochondrial function and promote soft tissue calcification. Dietary sulfur appears to lower cholesterol. While Lester Morrison showed 1500 milligrams per day of chondroitin sulfate could reduce cardiac events 7-fold, this has a theoretical potential to hurt the microbiome. My preferred way of getting sulfur is 1.2-1.8 grams per kilogram bodyweight of total non-collagen protein, with an emphasis on animal protein.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-statins-versus-sulfurIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Glutathione Intolerance: Getting to the Bottom of It*Why Plasma Zinc is the Best Marker of Zinc StatusIf you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the October 12, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*NADH vs NMN vs NR*An unexplained rise in urine ketones*Spreading out calcium across meals*What should we have in our cold season cabinet?*What besides diet could cause my high morning glucose on a CGM?*Will some older people benefit from supplementing carnitine?*What do I think about the CGM fad?*Could my low triglycerides be cholestasis?*Why limit the dose of cod liver oil?*Why do I always feel better when my sulfur problems are worse?*Should I use one lab’s reference range with another lab’s results?*Is it safe to eat roasted potatoes?*How much weight should I give genetic SNPs in my nutrition?*High RBC magnesium but low serum: what could it mean?*Burning in the stomach: what could it be?*Should I treat low plasma amino acids by supplementing them?*Why would MK-4 cause heart palpitations?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-october
Why would someone not tolerate methyl donors even if they need them? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-01-09 | Short Answer: I believe most methyl donor intolerances are a result of deficiencies in the glycine buffer system, which requires glycine, vitamin A, fasting (glucagon), androgens, riboflavin, unmethylated folate (THF), and iron. No one should expect to tolerate 30 milligrams of folate, however, and there is almost never a reason to use doses that high.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-cognitive-health-mctIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Does glucose handling in the brain decline with age? And if so, does this serve as a rationale to supplement with MCT oil to prevent cognitive decline?*Does whey protein hurt the kidneys or otherwise hurt our health?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the September 14, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Why isn't my ferritin as high as diabetics when my transferrin saturation is higher?*Why are vitamins A and E needed alongside D and K?*Sunflower lecithin versus phosphatidylcholine supplements*How do I reduce congestion while consuming dairy?*Could eggs be raising triglycerides by curing fatty liver?*Why would homocysteine ever be high when you can just use it to make glutathione?*Why did my eye start twitching after sweating more than usual this weekend?*Why do I now think A and D should be in roughly 1:1 ratios?*Would MK-7 be enough to take with D or do I need MK-4?*Why does water make me hungry?*What's the proper ratio of calcium to magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin K2?*Is it safe to take zinc carnosine long term?*Why did I recommend only using high-dose zinc for COVID protection for one year?*Why did I recommend limiting quercetin phytosome to three months?*Why take MK-4 when it has such a short half-life?*How to make bowel movements more regular?*Could freeze dried animal beef supplements cause gut infections?*Do I recommend food sensitivity testing?*What are the nutritional causes of restless leg syndrome?*What do I think of drinking deuterium-depleted water for COVID severity?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-september
Taking biotin? Watch this before running any lab tests! Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2023-01-08 | High-dose biotin supplements can cause a multitude of false lab tests, masking recent heart attacks, pregnancies, or allergies, giving false signals about tumors, vitamin D levels, and far more.In this episode, I lay out for you the nature, scope, and magnitude of the problem, and develop actionable strategies you can use to protect your lab tests from generating false information as a result of this phenomenon.You can find the written and fully referenced version of this episode here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/biotin-causes-false-lab-testsThe written version also contains some figures that help you visualize the mechanistic information.If you find this episode valuable, please head over to the written version on Substack using the above link to like it, share it, and comment on it. This will encourage the Substack algorithm to get it in front of more people.In High Protein? You Need More Biotin, I made the case that 30 micrograms per day is not enough for adults, and that many people need 150-300 micrograms per day, depending on how much protein they eat:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/high-protein-you-need-more-biotinMy simple food-based recommendations for getting enough biotin are found in my Cliff Notes:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/the-vitamins-and-minerals-101-cliff-noteswhich are free for Masterpass members here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/paid-subscribers-now-have-free-accessTo learn more about the Masterpass, click here:themasterpass.chrismasterjohnphd.com/sales-pageStay Immune Through the WinterMy new 7-page quick guide on how to not get sick this winter, Staying Immune Through the Winter, is free for everyone. All you need is a free or paid subscription to my Substack.Head here to check your subscription status and to make sure you get the guide:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/staying-immune-through-the-winterJoin the Next Live Q&AHave a question for me? Ask it at the next Q&A! Learn more here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/register-for-the-next-q-and-a-hereJoin the MasterpassMasterpass members get access to premium content (preview the premium posts here: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/premium), all my ebook guides for free (see the collection of ebook guides here: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/ebooks), monthly live Q&A sessions (see when the next session is here: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/live-q-and-a), all my courses for free (see the collection here: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/courses), and exclusive access to massive discounts (see the specific discounts available by clicking here: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/exclusive-discounts-for-masterpass). Upgrade your subscription to include Masterpass membership here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/subscribe
Does whey protein hurt the kidneys or otherwise hurt our health? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-12-26 | Short Answer: The main problem with too much protein, particularly animal protein, is that acidity may hurt the bones and increase the risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones, but this can be obviated by balancing it with organic acids, which have bicarbonate-sparing effects that are alkalinizing. The best index of the organic acid content of foods is the potassium content. This balance can be achieved with 750 to 1500 milligrams of potassium for every 100 grams of protein. This is not specific to whey protein. Other than allergies, none of the claimed harms of whey protein are convincing.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-cognitive-health-mctIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Does glucose handling in the brain decline with age? And if so, does this serve as a rationale to supplement with MCT oil to prevent cognitive decline?*Why would someone not tolerate methyl donors even if they need them?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the September 14, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Why isn't my ferritin as high as diabetics when my transferrin saturation is higher?*Why are vitamins A and E needed alongside D and K?*Sunflower lecithin versus phosphatidylcholine supplements*How do I reduce congestion while consuming dairy?*Could eggs be raising triglycerides by curing fatty liver?*Why would homocysteine ever be high when you can just use it to make glutathione?*Why did my eye start twitching after sweating more than usual this weekend?*Why do I now think A and D should be in roughly 1:1 ratios?*Would MK-7 be enough to take with D or do I need MK-4?*Why does water make me hungry?*What's the proper ratio of calcium to magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin K2?*Is it safe to take zinc carnosine long term?*Why did I recommend only using high-dose zinc for COVID protection for one year?*Why did I recommend limiting quercetin phytosome to three months?*Why take MK-4 when it has such a short half-life?*How to make bowel movements more regular?*Could freeze dried animal beef supplements cause gut infections?*Do I recommend food sensitivity testing?*What are the nutritional causes of restless leg syndrome?*What do I think of drinking deuterium-depleted water for COVID severity?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-september
Does glucose handling in the brain decline with age? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-12-12 | Does glucose handling in the brain decline with age? And if so, does this serve as a rationale to supplement with MCT oil to prevent cognitive decline?Short Answer: Energy metabolism in general declines across the body with aging, but energy metabolism seems to stay healthy enough in the brain in people who do not experience cognitive decline. Cognitive decline does appear to be driven by decreases in brain energy metabolism, but these are not best described as a specific impairment in glucose handling. MCT oil can be modestly beneficial and a ketogenic diet can probably be somewhat more beneficial in people who have cognitive decline from any type. There is no evidence to support using it as a preventative. For prevention, I believe we should focus on aerobic fitness, nutrients required for healthy energy metabolism and antioxidant defense, and maintaining metabolic health with a healthy body composition and a healthy physical activity routine that includes the proper spread of a portfolio of different types of exercise.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access two other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-cognitive-health-mctIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Does whey protein hurt the kidneys or otherwise hurt our health?*Why would someone not tolerate methyl donors even if they need them?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the September 14, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Why isn't my ferritin as high as diabetics when my transferrin saturation is higher?*Why are vitamins A and E needed alongside D and K?*Sunflower lecithin versus phosphatidylcholine supplements*How do I reduce congestion while consuming dairy?*Could eggs be raising triglycerides by curing fatty liver?*Why would homocysteine ever be high when you can just use it to make glutathione?*Why did my eye start twitching after sweating more than usual this weekend?*Why do I now think A and D should be in roughly 1:1 ratios?*Would MK-7 be enough to take with D or do I need MK-4?*Why does water make me hungry?*What's the proper ratio of calcium to magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin K2?*Is it safe to take zinc carnosine long term?*Why did I recommend only using high-dose zinc for COVID protection for one year?*Why did I recommend limiting quercetin phytosome to three months?*Why take MK-4 when it has such a short half-life?*How to make bowel movements more regular?*Could freeze dried animal beef supplements cause gut infections?*Do I recommend food sensitivity testing?*What are the nutritional causes of restless leg syndrome?*What do I think of drinking deuterium-depleted water for COVID severity?Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-september
Why is an IV more hydrating than salted water? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-11-28 | Short Answer: If it can’t be explained by the dose of salt, it may be that the salt is not being absorbed orally. Glucose, starch, or simply a meal consumed alongside the salted water may help with this.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access five other free samples using this link: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-protein-and-longevity-1a2In that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Protein and Longevity*How to Increase or Decrease SHBG?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the August 15, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Does which food you eat matter when everything is digested anyway?*How to know if your nitric oxide is dilating your blood vessels properly?*How big of a problem are transient glucose spikes above 140 mg/dL?*Can I take too much collagen?*What is the maximum dose of cod liver oil safe to use long-term?*How much A is safe to take when I need so much to resolve my symptoms?*Generalizing from cell studies of green tea catechins to cups of green tea per day.*What to do about lumbar discs bulging?*Why would vitamin K2 cause a nosebleed?*How to balance A with D when I react poorly to D and need so much A?*Why would COVID decrease HRV long-term?*How to raise secretory IgA?*Rapid-fire answers to pre-submitted questions that didn’t win the contest: alternatives to bone meal powder, herbal tea and nutrient absorption, retinol-binding protein, improving fat digestion, metal provocation tests, fatty liver, high-dose B vitamins, eyebrow thinning, itchy bumps after exercise, brain fog and rifaximin, low cholesterol, tolerating chlorine pools, cycling nutrients, copper toxicity, stopping supplements before blood tests, COVID vaccines causing post-nasal drip, natural vs synthetic vitamins, absorbing iron through baths, elevated EPA and DHA in RBCs, COVID affecting the vagus nerve, supplements for athletic performance, when water doesn’t hydrate, tics and Tourette’s, recalcitrant homocysteine, fraud and corruption in scienctific research.Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-august
How to Increase or Decrease SHBG? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-11-14 | Short Answer: SHBG is increased by adiponectin (vitamin K2, insulin sensitivity), thyroid hormone, fasting physiology (AMPK, fat oxidation), and estrogen (especially estrone), while it is decreased by insulin resistance, obesity, the fed state and carbohydrate-dominant physiology, androgens, and polyunsaturated fat.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access five other free samples using this link: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-protein-and-longevity-1a2In that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*Protein and Longevity*Why is an IV more hydrating than salted water?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the August 15, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Does which food you eat matter when everything is digested anyway?*How to know if your nitric oxide is dilating your blood vessels properly?*How big of a problem are transient glucose spikes above 140 mg/dL?*Can I take too much collagen?*What is the maximum dose of cod liver oil safe to use long-term?*How much A is safe to take when I need so much to resolve my symptoms?*Generalizing from cell studies of green tea catechins to cups of green tea per day.*What to do about lumbar discs bulging?*Why would vitamin K2 cause a nosebleed?*How to balance A with D when I react poorly to D and need so much A?*Why would COVID decrease HRV long-term?*How to raise secretory IgA?*Rapid-fire answers to pre-submitted questions that didn’t win the contest: alternatives to bone meal powder, herbal tea and nutrient absorption, retinol-binding protein, improving fat digestion, metal provocation tests, fatty liver, high-dose B vitamins, eyebrow thinning, itchy bumps after exercise, brain fog and rifaximin, low cholesterol, tolerating chlorine pools, cycling nutrients, copper toxicity, stopping supplements before blood tests, COVID vaccines causing post-nasal drip, natural vs synthetic vitamins, absorbing iron through baths, elevated EPA and DHA in RBCs, COVID affecting the vagus nerve, supplements for athletic performance, when water doesn’t hydrate, tics and Tourette’s, recalcitrant homocysteine, fraud and corruption in scienctific research.Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-august
Protein and Longevity Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-10-24 | Short Answer: While protein restriction may have value in people with established cancer or kidney disease, cycling robustly between fasting and feeding states is likely to provide all the value that restriction of protein or calories might otherwise provide, and a high protein intake supports bone mass, muscle mass, and the detoxification of carcinogens, all of which are important to longevity.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access five other free samples using this link: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-protein-and-longevity-1a2In that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:*How to Increase or Decrease SHBG?*Why is an IV more hydrating than salted water?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the August 15, 2022 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:*Does which food you eat matter when everything is digested anyway?*How to know if your nitric oxide is dilating your blood vessels properly?*How big of a problem are transient glucose spikes above 140 mg/dL?*Can I take too much collagen?*What is the maximum dose of cod liver oil safe to use long-term?*How much A is safe to take when I need so much to resolve my symptoms?*Generalizing from cell studies of green tea catechins to cups of green tea per day.*What to do about lumbar discs bulging?*Why would vitamin K2 cause a nosebleed?*How to balance A with D when I react poorly to D and need so much A?*Why would COVID decrease HRV long-term?*How to raise secretory IgA?*Rapid-fire answers to pre-submitted questions that didn’t win the contest: alternatives to bone meal powder, herbal tea and nutrient absorption, retinol-binding protein, improving fat digestion, metal provocation tests, fatty liver, high-dose B vitamins, eyebrow thinning, itchy bumps after exercise, brain fog and rifaximin, low cholesterol, tolerating chlorine pools, cycling nutrients, copper toxicity, stopping supplements before blood tests, COVID vaccines causing post-nasal drip, natural vs synthetic vitamins, absorbing iron through baths, elevated EPA and DHA in RBCs, COVID affecting the vagus nerve, supplements for athletic performance, when water doesn’t hydrate, tics and Tourette’s, recalcitrant homocysteine, fraud and corruption in scienctific research.Here’s a link to the full AMA: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-august
Why do my urinary B6 markers say Im deficient if my plasma levels are high-normal? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-10-10 | Short answer: Low or low-normal alkaline phosphatase may raise the plasma B6 level over the cellular level. Tryptophan metabolites in urine reflect the B6 requirement for the kynurenine pathway, and this requirement increases with more estrogen, more inflammation, or a higher protein intake.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access five other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-vitamin-d-fatty-liverIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions: • What's the difference between 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D when it comes to the VDR? • Reversing Fatty Liver: How Long Does It Take? • What if my A1C says I'm diabetic but my CGM says I'm fine? • Will reishi, turmeric, or curcumin tank my testosterone? • The 3 Phases of Fasting: And How to Get Kicked Out of Each OneIf you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the July 13 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included: • How do I know if my digestive enzymes are helping or hurting? • Why does high-dose glycine give me these terrible symptoms? • How to know if my magnesium is messing with my calcium? • Why do I have vitamin A symptoms when my lab tests are normal? • What is my favorite web site for finding enzymatic cofactors? • Potassium citrate vs potassium chloride • Major problems with B vitamin supplements • Is food sensitivity testing useful? • What nutrients might help with dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase deficiency? • Does lipoic acid hurt methylation? • Sulfur SIBO that just won’t go away. • Using lactate, pyruvate, and ketone ratios to indicate the NADH/NAD+ ratio. • Helping bile flow without pharmaceuticals. • Managing pernicious anemia. • Do we really need to meet the RDA for calcium? • Could stretch marks be a sign of copper toxicity? • When iron saturation is driven by low binding capacity. • How do I know if I need methyl-free Bs? • What causes heat intolerance?Here’s a link to the full AMA:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-june-de3
The 3 Phases of Fasting: And How to Get Kicked Out of Each One Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-09-26 | Short answer: 4-6 hours after a meal the small intestine is emptied and the insulin-to-glucagon ratio declines; 25 hours after, hepatic glycogen is emptied; 5 days later the brain is adapted to ketones and gluconeogenesis reaches its minimal level. Moving from one to the other cannot occur with a small piece of signaling like the bite of an apple. It requires the preponderance of signaling.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access five other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-vitamin-d-fatty-liverIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions: • What's the difference between 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D when it comes to the VDR? • Reversing Fatty Liver: How Long Does It Take? • What if my A1C says I'm diabetic but my CGM says I'm fine? • Will reishi, turmeric, or curcumin tank my testosterone? • Why do my urinary B6 markers say I'm deficient if I'm supplementing and my plasma levels are high-normal?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the July 13 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included: • How do I know if my digestive enzymes are helping or hurting? • Why does high-dose glycine give me these terrible symptoms? • How to know if my magnesium is messing with my calcium? • Why do I have vitamin A symptoms when my lab tests are normal? • What is my favorite web site for finding enzymatic cofactors? • Potassium citrate vs potassium chloride • Major problems with B vitamin supplements • Is food sensitivity testing useful? • What nutrients might help with dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase deficiency? • Does lipoic acid hurt methylation? • Sulfur SIBO that just won’t go away. • Using lactate, pyruvate, and ketone ratios to indicate the NADH/NAD+ ratio. • Helping bile flow without pharmaceuticals. • Managing pernicious anemia. • Do we really need to meet the RDA for calcium? • Could stretch marks be a sign of copper toxicity? • When iron saturation is driven by low binding capacity. • How do I know if I need methyl-free Bs? • What causes heat intolerance?Here’s a link to the full AMA:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-june-de3
Will reishi, turmeric, or curcumin tank my testosterone? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-09-12 | Short answer: Probably not. Animal studies showing a difference use huge doses in an unrealistic context. Human studies show they don’t at doses used. Human effect on PSA is vulnerable to regression to the mean and thoroughly unconvincing.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access five other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-vitamin-d-fatty-liverIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions: • What's the difference between 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D when it comes to the VDR? • Reversing Fatty Liver: How Long Does It Take? • What if my A1C says I'm diabetic but my CGM says I'm fine? • The 3 Phases of Fasting: And How to Get Kicked Out of Each One • Why do my urinary B6 markers say I'm deficient if I'm supplementing and my plasma levels are high-normal?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the June 16 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included: • What to do about persistent SIBO? • Are there toxicity concerns for intravenous B vitamins? • Should zinc be taken apart from oral rehydration salts? • Why would magnesium cause erratic heartbeat, bad dreams, and tinnitus? • How do you know if you have low stomach acid? • What is a good sweetener to replace granulated sugar? • Do I need to eat foods with calcium every day? • What bread do I eat? • Should you take vitamin D for COVID prevention if you have a history of hypercalcemia? • What to do about extreme CFS, depression, anxiety, and brain fog when nothing seems to work. • Why balance K2 with vitamin E rather than K1?Here’s a link to the full AMA:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-june
What if my A1C says Im diabetic but my CGM says Im fine? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-08-22 | Short answer: Trust the CGM. HbA1c is confounded by red blood cell turnover and fructosamine 3-kinase activity.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access five other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-vitamin-d-fatty-liverIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:What's the difference between 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D when it comes to the VDR?Reversing Fatty Liver: How Long Does It Take?Will reishi, turmeric, or curcumin tank my testosterone?The 3 Phases of Fasting: And How to Get Kicked Out of Each OneWhy do my urinary B6 markers say I'm deficient if I'm supplementing and my plasma levels are high-normal?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the June 16 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included: • What to do about persistent SIBO? • Are there toxicity concerns for intravenous B vitamins? • Should zinc be taken apart from oral rehydration salts? • Why would magnesium cause erratic heartbeat, bad dreams, and tinnitus? • How do you know if you have low stomach acid? • What is a good sweetener to replace granulated sugar? • Do I need to eat foods with calcium every day? • What bread do I eat? • Should you take vitamin D for COVID prevention if you have a history of hypercalcemia? • What to do about extreme CFS, depression, anxiety, and brain fog when nothing seems to work. • Why balance K2 with vitamin E rather than K1?Here’s a link to the full AMA:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/recording-and-transcript-of-the-june
Chips! The Only Ones Ill Endorse Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-07-21 | My friend Steve, who is the one who originally introduced me to the Essex Farm CSA that now supplies me with almost all my food, has invented a new tortilla chip that launches today!MASA chips are made from organic corn from small New England farms. The corn is nixtimalized, which frees the niacin, makes it more digestible, and eliminates 97-100% of the mycotoxins (based on studies with aflatoxin). Then they are fried in grass-fed beef tallow!They are full-bodied and feel nourishing, and they are the perfect saltiness. That is, I do not feel like a company has tagged me as eating a low-salt diet just because I want a healthy chip.The bulk of your diet should be unprocessed and minimally processed foods, but there is an important place for health snacks!Get your MASA chips today at chrismasterjohnphd.com/masa and use the code MASTERJOHN for 10% off.I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.You will rarely ever find me promoting a chip, but this is one I endorse!
Ancestral Health Debate Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-06-23 | Nick Hiebert and I debate the value of ancestral health as a framework for approaching health in the modern era.For my summary of and reflections on the debate, as well as a transcript, head to:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/the-ancestral-health-debateIf you found this valuable, please like, share, and comment on the Substack version to get it before more eyeballs.For timestamps, see the pinned comment.Also subscribe to my Substack, where I most often put out new content:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/subscribeJOIN THE NEXT Q&AI run monthly live Zoom Q&As for my members. See when the next Q&A is here so you can join:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/live-q-and-aJOIN THE MASTERPASSMasterpass members also get:* Access to premium content. Preview the premium posts here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/premium* All my ebook guides for free. See the collection of ebook guides here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/ebooks* All my courses for free. See the collection here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/courses* And exclusive access to massive discounts. See the specific discounts available by clicking here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/exclusive-discounts-for-masterpassSign up for the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/subscribeOr click here to learn more about it:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutTAKE A LOOK AT THE STOREAt no extra cost to you, please consider buying products from one of my popular affiliates using these links:Paleovalley (I have a whole closet full of their beef sticks!): chrismasterjohnphd.com/support/paleovalleyMagic Spoon low-carb, high-protein breakfast cereal: chrismasterjohnphd.com/magicspoonLMNT, the salty electrolyte mix:drinklmnt.com/pages/chris-masterjohn?rfsn=3811624.ced688eutm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=chrismasterjohn&utm_campaign=standard&utm_content=&utm_term=Seeking Health (I use their genetic report, Strategene, and their P5P and lactase drops): chrismasterjohnphd.com/seekinghealthAncestral Supplements (I use their liver capsules): http://chrismasterjohnphd.com/ancestralFind more affiliates here:chrismasterjohnphd.com/how-you-can-support-my-work#affiliateshort For $2.99, you can purchase The Vitamins and Minerals 101 Cliff Notes, a bullet point summary of all the most important things I’ve learned in over 15 years of studying nutrition science:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/the-vitamins-and-minerals-101-cliff-notesFor $10, you can purchase The Food and Supplement Guide for the Coronavirus, my protocol for prevention and for what to do if you get sick:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/the-food-and-supplement-guide-for-the-coronavirusFor $15, you can pre-order a single format of my Vitamins and Minerals 101 book, my complete guide to nutrition, which I am currently working full-time on finishing:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/vitamins-and-minerals-101-pre-orderFor $25, you can pre-order a digital bundle of my Vitamins and Minerals 101 book:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/vitamins-and-minerals-101-pre-orderFor $29.99, you can purchase a copy of my ebook, Testing Nutritional Status: The Ultimate Cheat Sheet, my complete system for managing your nutritional status using dietary analysis, a survey of just under 200 signs and symptoms, and a comprehensive guide to proper interpretation of labwork:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/how-to-banish-dont-forget-to-add-save20For $35, you can pre-order a complete bundle of my Vitamins and Minerals 101 book:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/a-new-paradigm-for-severe-covidFor $250-$1499.99, you can work one-on-one with me:chrismasterjohnphd.com/consultations
Defunding COVID, Vitamin C and Glutathione as Pro-Oxidants Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-05-14 | If you find this information valuable, please like and share the video and subscribe to my channel!Also subscribe to my Substack, where I most often put out new content:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/subscribeJOIN THE NEXT Q&AI run monthly live Zoom Q&As for my members. See when the next Q&A is here so you can join:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/live-q-and-aJOIN THE MASTERPASSMasterpass members also get:* Access to premium content. Preview the premium posts here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/premium* All my ebook guides for free. See the collection of ebook guides here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/ebooks* All my courses for free. See the collection here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/courses* And exclusive access to massive discounts. See the specific discounts available by clicking here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/exclusive-discounts-for-masterpassSign up for the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/subscribeOr click here to learn more about it:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutTAKE A LOOK AT THE STOREAt no extra cost to you, please consider buying products from one of my popular affiliates using these links:Paleovalley (I have a whole closet full of their beef sticks!): chrismasterjohnphd.com/support/paleovalleyMagic Spoon low-carb, high-protein breakfast cereal: chrismasterjohnphd.com/magicspoonLMNT, the salty electrolyte mix:drinklmnt.com/pages/chris-masterjohn?rfsn=3811624.ced688eutm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=chrismasterjohn&utm_campaign=standard&utm_content=&utm_term=Seeking Health (I use their genetic report, Strategene, and their P5P and lactase drops): chrismasterjohnphd.com/seekinghealthAncestral Supplements (I use their liver capsules): http://chrismasterjohnphd.com/ancestralFind more affiliates here:chrismasterjohnphd.com/how-you-can-support-my-work#affiliateshort For $2.99, you can purchase The Vitamins and Minerals 101 Cliff Notes, a bullet point summary of all the most important things I’ve learned in over 15 years of studying nutrition science:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/the-vitamins-and-minerals-101-cliff-notesFor $10, you can purchase The Food and Supplement Guide for the Coronavirus, my protocol for prevention and for what to do if you get sick:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/the-food-and-supplement-guide-for-the-coronavirusFor $15, you can pre-order a single format of my Vitamins and Minerals 101 book, my complete guide to nutrition, which I am currently working full-time on finishing:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/vitamins-and-minerals-101-pre-orderFor $25, you can pre-order a digital bundle of my Vitamins and Minerals 101 book:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/vitamins-and-minerals-101-pre-orderFor $29.99, you can purchase a copy of my ebook, Testing Nutritional Status: The Ultimate Cheat Sheet, my complete system for managing your nutritional status using dietary analysis, a survey of just under 200 signs and symptoms, and a comprehensive guide to proper interpretation of labwork:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/how-to-banish-dont-forget-to-add-save20For $35, you can pre-order a complete bundle of my Vitamins and Minerals 101 book:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/a-new-paradigm-for-severe-covidFor $250-$1499.99, you can work one-on-one with me:chrismasterjohnphd.com/consultations
Pandemic Treaty, Shortages, Theanine as Anti-Histamine Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-05-13 | If you find this information valuable, please like and share the video and subscribe to my channel!Also subscribe to my Substack, where I most often put out new content:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/subscribeJOIN THE NEXT Q&AI run monthly live Zoom Q&As for my members. See when the next Q&A is here so you can join:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/live-q-and-aJOIN THE MASTERPASSMasterpass members also get:* Access to premium content. Preview the premium posts here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/premium* All my ebook guides for free. See the collection of ebook guides here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/ebooks* All my courses for free. See the collection here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/courses* And exclusive access to massive discounts. See the specific discounts available by clicking here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/exclusive-discounts-for-masterpassSign up for the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/subscribeOr click here to learn more about it:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutTAKE A LOOK AT THE STOREAt no extra cost to you, please consider buying products from one of my popular affiliates using these links:Paleovalley (I have a whole closet full of their beef sticks!): chrismasterjohnphd.com/support/paleovalleyMagic Spoon low-carb, high-protein breakfast cereal: chrismasterjohnphd.com/magicspoonLMNT, the salty electrolyte mix:drinklmnt.com/pages/chris-masterjohn?rfsn=3811624.ced688eutm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=chrismasterjohn&utm_campaign=standard&utm_content=&utm_term=Seeking Health (I use their genetic report, Strategene, and their P5P and lactase drops): chrismasterjohnphd.com/seekinghealthAncestral Supplements (I use their liver capsules): http://chrismasterjohnphd.com/ancestralFind more affiliates here:chrismasterjohnphd.com/how-you-can-support-my-work#affiliateshort For $2.99, you can purchase The Vitamins and Minerals 101 Cliff Notes, a bullet point summary of all the most important things I’ve learned in over 15 years of studying nutrition science:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/the-vitamins-and-minerals-101-cliff-notesFor $10, you can purchase The Food and Supplement Guide for the Coronavirus, my protocol for prevention and for what to do if you get sick:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/the-food-and-supplement-guide-for-the-coronavirusFor $15, you can pre-order a single format of my Vitamins and Minerals 101 book, my complete guide to nutrition, which I am currently working full-time on finishing:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/vitamins-and-minerals-101-pre-orderFor $25, you can pre-order a digital bundle of my Vitamins and Minerals 101 book:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/vitamins-and-minerals-101-pre-orderFor $29.99, you can purchase a copy of my ebook, Testing Nutritional Status: The Ultimate Cheat Sheet, my complete system for managing your nutritional status using dietary analysis, a survey of just under 200 signs and symptoms, and a comprehensive guide to proper interpretation of labwork:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/how-to-banish-dont-forget-to-add-save20For $35, you can pre-order a complete bundle of my Vitamins and Minerals 101 book:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/a-new-paradigm-for-severe-covidFor $250-$1499.99, you can work one-on-one with me:chrismasterjohnphd.com/consultations
Expensive Meat, Theanine, Allergy Protocol Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-05-12 | If you find this information valuable, please like and share the video and subscribe to my channel!Also subscribe to my Substack, where I most often put out new content:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/subscribeJOIN THE NEXT Q&AI run monthly live Zoom Q&As for my members. See when the next Q&A is here so you can join:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/live-q-and-aJOIN THE MASTERPASSMasterpass members also get:* Access to premium content. Preview the premium posts here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/premium* All my ebook guides for free. See the collection of ebook guides here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/ebooks* All my courses for free. See the collection here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/s/courses* And exclusive access to massive discounts. See the specific discounts available by clicking here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/exclusive-discounts-for-masterpassSign up for the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/subscribeOr click here to learn more about it:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutTAKE A LOOK AT THE STOREAt no extra cost to you, please consider buying products from one of my popular affiliates using these links:Paleovalley (I have a whole closet full of their beef sticks!): chrismasterjohnphd.com/support/paleovalleyMagic Spoon low-carb, high-protein breakfast cereal: chrismasterjohnphd.com/magicspoonLMNT, the salty electrolyte mix:drinklmnt.com/pages/chris-masterjohn?rfsn=3811624.ced688eutm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=chrismasterjohn&utm_campaign=standard&utm_content=&utm_term=Seeking Health (I use their genetic report, Strategene, and their P5P and lactase drops): chrismasterjohnphd.com/seekinghealthAncestral Supplements (I use their liver capsules): http://chrismasterjohnphd.com/ancestralFind more affiliates here:chrismasterjohnphd.com/how-you-can-support-my-work#affiliateshort For $2.99, you can purchase The Vitamins and Minerals 101 Cliff Notes, a bullet point summary of all the most important things I’ve learned in over 15 years of studying nutrition science:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/the-vitamins-and-minerals-101-cliff-notesFor $10, you can purchase The Food and Supplement Guide for the Coronavirus, my protocol for prevention and for what to do if you get sick:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/the-food-and-supplement-guide-for-the-coronavirusFor $15, you can pre-order a single format of my Vitamins and Minerals 101 book, my complete guide to nutrition, which I am currently working full-time on finishing:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/vitamins-and-minerals-101-pre-orderFor $25, you can pre-order a digital bundle of my Vitamins and Minerals 101 book:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/vitamins-and-minerals-101-pre-orderFor $29.99, you can purchase a copy of my ebook, Testing Nutritional Status: The Ultimate Cheat Sheet, my complete system for managing your nutritional status using dietary analysis, a survey of just under 200 signs and symptoms, and a comprehensive guide to proper interpretation of labwork:chris-masterjohn-phd.myshopify.com/products/how-to-banish-dont-forget-to-add-save20For $35, you can pre-order a complete bundle of my Vitamins and Minerals 101 book:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/a-new-paradigm-for-severe-covidFor $250-$1499.99, you can work one-on-one with me:chrismasterjohnphd.com/consultations
Honey and Allergies, Bill Gates Has COVID: Mastercast #7 Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-05-11 | Sign up for my Substack to get all my most important work in written form: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.comSend a superchat, like, subscribe, and share to support the channel.
Quercetin and Allergies, Stocks Crash, Public Health Corruption: Mastercast #6 Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-05-10 | Sign up for my Substack to get all my most important work in written form: chrismasterjohnphd.substack.comSend a superchat, like, subscribe, and share to support the channel.
Allergies: Mastercast #5 Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-05-03 | Read my allergy protocol here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/what-im-doing-for-allergies
Reversing Fatty Liver: How Long Does It Take? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-04-30 | Short answer: You should be able to see changes on imaging within a few weeks if your approach is working well, but ultimately this is entirely dependent on how negative your “delta fatty liver = (fat in) - ((fat out) + (fat burned))” equation is.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access five other free samples using this link:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-vitamin-d-fatty-liverIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:What's the difference between 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D when it comes to the VDR?What if my A1C says I'm diabetic but my CGM says I'm fine?Will reishi, turmeric, or curcumin tank my testosterone?The 3 Phases of Fasting: And How to Get Kicked Out of Each OneWhy do my urinary B6 markers say I'm deficient if I'm supplementing and my plasma levels are high-normal?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qandaLearn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the April 13 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:How to balance vitamins E and KWhat prenatal vitamin do I recommend?Why does my smoothie make my hands cold?What type of choline to use?Is there an interaction between glycine and aspirin?What supplements can be used in the fasting state?How to manage protein intake within a small eating window on an intermittent fasting regimen?Looking at a study on calcium alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation.Should I take vitamin D for COVID if I easily get hypercalcemia from it?What to do about nausea in pregnancy?Brief questions on restless legs, exercise during fasting, puffy eyes, and health effects of spicy foods.Here's the link to the full AMA:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-vitamin-d-fatty-liver
Whats the difference between 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D when it comes to the VDR? Chris Masterjohn, PhD 2022-04-29 | Short answer: 25(OH)D is 1000 times weaker at activating the VDR than 1,25(OH)D, but 1000 times more abundant. This is why I advocate measuring both, and ultimately believe we need to create a calculated index of “biological vitamin D activity” from them.This is a clip from a live Q&A session open to CMJ Masterpass members. In addition to this episode, you can access five other free samples from this batch here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/questions-on-vitamin-d-fatty-liverIn that batch of free episodes you will also find the answers to these questions:Reversing Fatty Liver: How Long Does It Take?What if my A1C says I'm diabetic but my CGM says I'm fine?Will reishi, turmeric, or curcumin tank my testosterone?The 3 Phases of Fasting: And How to Get Kicked Out of Each OneWhy do my urinary B6 markers say I'm deficient if I'm supplementing and my plasma levels are high-normal?If you want to become a Masterpass member so you can participate in the next live Q&A, or so you can have access to the complete recording and transcript of each Q&A session, you can save 10% off the subscription price for as long as you remain a member by using this link to sign up:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/qanda Learn more about the Masterpass here:chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/aboutThis snippet is from the April 13 AMA. The full recording and transcript is reserved for Masterpass members. Here is a preview of what’s included:Fat-soluble vitamins, prenatal nutrition, mixing glycine with aspirin, supplementing with alpha-ketoglutarate, nausea in pregnancy, and more.The questions include:How to balance vitamins E and KWhat prenatal vitamin do I recommend?Why does my smoothie make my hands cold?What type of choline to use?Is there an interaction between glycine and aspirin?What supplements can be used in the fasting state?How to manage protein intake within a small eating window on an intermittent fasting regimen?Looking at a study on calcium alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation.Should I take vitamin D for COVID if I easily get hypercalcemia from it?What to do about nausea in pregnancy?Brief questions on restless legs, exercise during fasting, puffy eyes, and health effects of spicy foods.chrismasterjohnphd.substack.com/p/ask-me-anything-april-13-2022
