The Muse in the Middle

Stem cell replacement therapy— A gift from the gods or the end of our ethics?

When it comes to stem cell news, there seems to be no middle ground. It’s reported that either stem cell replacement therapy is a gift from the gods or it’s the end of our ethics as we know them. Very few news articles have taken the time to step away from the hype and answer some very basic questions. So, if you will, please allow me.

What’s in a Name?

Regenerative medicine focuses on regaining lost or impaired body function. Adult stem cells can replace cells that have died or just stopped working effectively. Athletes have found that they help to heal or prevent injuries. Research has also shown stem cells can help fight certain diseases and serve as an anti-aging treatment. And, of course, stem cell transplants have been used since 1957 to restore the immune system after chemotherapy for cancer and these treatments continue to be improved and used today. It’s all good stuff.

Part of the controversy surrounding stem cell replacement, pounced on by the media, is the idea that stem cells must be retrieved from human embryos or specifically the umbilical cord, which has raised ethical concerns. But the reality is that all approved therapies in the United States do NOT include cells harvested from fetal tissue and are either performed using adult stem cells or those collected from donated (and otherwise typically discarded) umbilical cords of successful healthy births. And yes, more investigation into adult stem cell use needs to be done, but the idea that medical researchers are looking to “frankenstein” the human body or scavenge for stem cells is hyperbole, to say the least. One impetus for stem cell treatments is the success observed using what one person already has an abundance of to give someone else a new lease on life, much like a transplant but much less invasive and more accessible. It’s a procedure that dates back to 1948 and was expanded in 1968 when the first adult bone marrow cells were used in clinical therapies for blood disease.

There are different kinds of adult stem cells, categorized differently depending upon their capability or potency, their use and their derivation (as well as by the branch of science or medicine that is doing the categorizing): three main types found in the blood and bone marrow called hematopoietic stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, endothelial stem cells, but there are other types found throughout the body, and each of these has a predilection to replace a particular type of cell. One of the most versatile types of cells is called a Muse cell – a type of cell that resembles a stem cell that increase in number under conditions of considerable stress, and exist in the blood, bone marrow, and connective tissue of various organs. So, when an organ isn’t working properly, stem cells and Muse cells collected from a donor can be administered to a patient through an IV infusion, intramuscular or intraarticular injection to regenerate tissue and restore functionality. Some might call them a doctor’s muse for healing. Too much? 

Why is the FDA Being Cautious?

The FDA is in the middle of the debate over these new therapies. They are tasked with regulating regenerative medicine products to ensure that they are safe for patients. Just like any other type of drug or medical procedure, the FDA must be cautious because they have to protect the best interest of the patient. They demand strict testing and evidence to show that these treatments aren’t harmful. But sometimes oversight can be a slow process, and, while use of stem cells and even Muse cells have been proven safe and often efficacious in many other countries, the process of proving the efficacy and safety here in the United States has not been completed. Meanwhile, patients should be wary of unqualified doctors trying to take advantage by marketing therapies that have not yet been approved or for which they have not undergone proper training.

It’s important to be your own medical advocate and do your homework. Know what regenerative therapies have been approved and what products or services are undergoing legal clinical trials. Work in consultation with your physician, and don’t take any unnecessary risks. Seek advice as if you were undergoing any other medical procedure.

Options Available Now

So, what’s available now for those interested in stem cell therapies? First, you can ask your doctor if there is a trial in your area or a reputable clinic in another country. Look for studies that mention “IRB Approval” or are part of an “IND Study” since these are those that have FDA oversight and approval to be undertaken. Take advantage of websites that provide an overview of trials and clinics throughout the world.  One of the best sites is run by The International Society for Stem Cell Research. It provides links to a wide range of other resources too. Depending on your ailment, you could also try to work on the reverse by matching your issue with a potential stem cell treatment. 

Educate yourself about whether a given clinic or treatment has been the subject of lawsuits, controversy, or negative (and well researched) publicity. Some stem cell purveyors exaggerate claims, take shortcuts with their techniques, and engage in other practices that are morally dubious. Look for clinics run by individuals with strong science and medical credentials.  Ask your doctor about the validity of their methods and specific stem cell extraction and infusion approaches.  Beware of any clinic that is selling stem cells like a late-night TV pitchman hawking slicers-and-dicers.  

Then, set a budget and determine how much, if any, insurance is willing to cover. Currently, most insurance plans will only cover stem cells collected through bone marrow transplants. Be mindful that different methods have different associated costs. In many cases, liposuction is the most cost-effective option, and those stem cells can be expanded, offering more bang for the buck.

Finally, keep track of emerging treatment developments.  Stem cells represent a rapidly evolving field, not just scientifically but from a regulatory perspective.  Invariably, new and more effective treatments will emerge for a wide range of conditions. At the same time, stem cells will gain greater acceptance overall—while the media continues to play catch up. 

Escape Your Limits: How to Cheat Death

On this week’s episode of the Escape Your Limits podcast, we are joined by Dr. Rand McClain, aka ‘The Longevity Doctor’ to explore whether death is predetermined by genetics or whether we can make informed lifestyle choices that extend health span and override the influence of our genes.

Dr. McClain earned his medical degree at Western University and completed his internship at the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine Residency Program (U.S.C. California Hospital) and has spent his professional life redefining what it means to be in optimal health. Having established his own practice, Regenerative and Sports Medicine Dr. McClain supports his patients (many of which are A-List celebrities and world-class athletes) through the application of cutting edge treatments and philosophies including bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), hyperbaric oxygen therapy, cryotherapy, platelet rich plasma and stem cell therapies.

In his recent book, ‘Cheating Death: The New Science of Living Longer and Better’, Dr. McClain reveals fresh, science-backed approach to genetics, natural aging, and proactive medical treatments and discusses how to access to these therapies to jumpstart their body’s regenerative processes. Bolstered with research and recovery stories from real people, Cheating Death gives readers the tools to live healthier, longer lives. In this podcast, Dr. McClain talks extensively about:

  • Fitness trends and nutrition principles past and present.
  • Biological age versus Chronological age.
  • Key bio markers for predicting healthy longevity.
  • Anti-aging supplements.
  • The effect of NAD on energy and sleep.
  • Poly phenols and their role in fighting inflammation and cancer.
  • Sleep hygiene habits.
  • Cold Therapy and heat shock proteins to boost health.
  • Air quality’s impact on health.
  • Testosterone replacement therapy. Debunking myths.
  • Fasting and its effects on cortisol.
  • The role of genetics and emerging tech in a long and healthy life.

Dr Rand McClain Discusses Age As A Biomarker For Healthcare

Dr Rand McClain is a key figure in the world of longevity therapies and innovative antiaging solutions. However, he is also keen to convey that he is not just a doctor – he’s also a patient. In his new book, McClain details how his past health battles do not define his healthspan or longevity, encouraging his readers to adopt the same mindset.

McClain’s new book Cheating Death: The New Science of Living Longer and Better is out on 7 March, and in it, McClain reveals his strategies for longevity and discusses what the future of regenerative medicine holds. These topics are right in our sweet spot, so we were delighted to sit down with Dr McClain to find out more.

How To Cheat Death and Aging: Hormones, Peptides and Rapamycin with Dr. Rand McClain

Do you want to actually live longer but look like and feel like a kickass Rockstar in the process? In order to do that, you’re going to need some biohacks! You’re going to need hormones! You’re going to need a couple other things that we’re going to talk about in this episode with my guest, Dr. Rand McClain. He is America’s favorite Longevity Doctor!

Dr. Rand was a two time US Olympic water polo team member. He’s a prostate cancer survivor. He’s co-owner of California Restaurant kickass restaurant. He’s absolutely amazing and his knowledge is through the roof. So we are going to deep dive today and talk about his book Cheating Death and we’re going to also deep dive into the world of hormones!

You know, I love to get other people’s take on the importance of hormones & Dr. Rand will give us his take! We going to dive into Rapamycin, and peptides! Basically we’ll touch on all those things that you need to be looking at and implementing if you really don’t want to become just an old donut. If you want to be a kick ass rock star as you age, then you need to listen to Dr. Rand McClain!

Cheating Death Book Landing Page: https://www.cheatingdeath.com

Purchase book on Amazon: Cheating Death

How to Extend Your LIFESPAN, Improve Health, & Increase Longevity | Rand McClain on Mind Pump 2075

  • 00:00 Intro
  • 02:00 Taking control of your health.
  • 04:13 Longevity vs. health span.
  • 11:55 The three pillars that impact your biological age.
  • 14:42 NO diet fits all.
  • 20:23 How he eats for maximal performance.
  • 26:07 Using exercise as the great equalizer.
  • 31:26 The importance of sleep hygiene.
  • 44:50 The effect of metformin on your health and longevity.
  • 53:05 How can hormone therapy impact your performance and health span?
  • 1:02:37 At what age should you investigate hormone therapy?
  • 1:08:23 Peptides for health and longevity.
  • 1:16:16 How gene editing will revolutionize life span.
  • 1:21:51 The future for stem cell therapy. 1:25:11 Advancements towards early detection of diseases and cancers.

Related Links/Products Mentioned

Visit PRx Performance for an exclusive offer for Mind Pump listeners! https://prxperformance.com/mindpump

Cheating Death: The New Science of Living Longer and Better – Book by Dr. Rand McClain https://amzn.to/3MnsCBO

The Art of Resilience: Strategies for an Unbreakable Mind and Body – Book by Ross Edgley https://amzn.to/42xQrMF

Mind Pump #2060: Maximize Fat Loss With Continuous Glucose Monitors: Kara Collier https://mindpumppodcast.com/2060-maxi…

Let’s Eat Right to Keep Fit – Book by Adelle Davis https://amzn.to/3o2pJgs

The Resistance Training Revolution – Book by Sal Di Stefano https://theresistancetrainingrevoluti…

Testosterone for Life: Recharge Your Vitality, Sex Drive, Muscle Mass, and Overall Health – Book by Abraham Morgentaler https://amzn.to/450N9Dy

Testosterone Therapy and Cardiovascular Risk: Advances and Controversies https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org…

How To Increase Sensitivity And Density Of The Androgen Receptors? https://www.performanceinsiders.com/a…

Mind Pump #1900: The Truth About Peptides With Dr. Rand McClain https://mindpumppodcast.com/1900-the-…

Mind Pump Free Resources http://www.mindpumpfree.com/

People Mentioned

  • Ross Edgley (@rossedgley) Instagram
  • Peter Attia (@peterattiamd) Instagram
  • The Sleep Doctor (@thesleepdoctor) Twitter
  • Matt Walker (@drmattwalker) Instagram
  • Dr. Abraham Morgentaler

Connect With Us:

Podcast

Testosterone, Hormone Therapy, and Peptides for Health and Longevity with Dr. Rand McClain

Today’s episode is all about hormones, peptides, and innovative treatments with my special guest, Dr. Rand McClain. Dr. Rand reveals the importance of testosterone, its effects on your body, and how to manage them. We also examine menopause vs. MANopause, the diagnosis and treatment of hormonal deficiencies, and questions from our community. Finally, we delve into the science of peptides!

From being the youngest senior account manager in Deloitte’s history, to his stint as a professional kickboxer in Argentina, to being accepted to medical school at age 37 after being repeatedly told it was impossible, Dr. Rand has never been a fan of the “status quo”.

Dr. Rand’s patients (many of which are A-List celebrities and world-class athletes) come to his practice in search of the innovative treatments he specializes in. From the latest in stem cell and hormone therapies, to IV drips that reduce trauma and anxiety, to human performance health programs and futuristic longevity treatments, Dr. Rand believes that your past health mistakes don’t define your future.

__________

Book a FREE 30-minute call with Philip here.

__________

Today you’ll learn all about:

  • [2:12] Proving doubters wrong to attend med school in your late 30s
  • [6:42] Unveiling the message behind the book Cheating Death
  • [8:24] Emotional support in hormone-related challenges
  • [12:16] Dr. Rand’s health and fitness routine
  • [15:40] Importance of testosterone and signs of low levels
  • [17:52] Comparing menopause and MANopause
  • [19:44] The decline or the early onset of the decline of hormones
  • [21:35] Effects of testosterone on fitness goals
  • [26:00] Diagnosis and treatment of hormonal deficiencies and common misconceptions about HRT
  • [29:20] Peptides versus steroids, hormones, and other drugs
  • [34:36] Hormone creams and their benefits for receptors
  • [37:42] Recommended supplement combinations
  • [42:30] Natural methods for hormone control
  • [46:50] Explaining peptides and their roles in the body
  • [50:50] Practical use of peptides in treatment
  • [55:46] Genetic testing in hormone therapy
  • [59:02] Exciting future advancements in medicine
  • [1:05:55] How to connect with Dr. Rand

Episode resources:

Dr. Rand’s website: Regenerative Health and Sports Medicine

Dr. Rand’s book

Apply for 1-on-1 coaching ⬇️
https://www.witsandweights.com/apply-for-coaching

Increasing Health Span with Dr. Rand McClain

LifeBlood: We talked about increasing health span, how to start feeling better, the differences and similarities between looking and feeling healthy, the main levers for increasing health, and how to get started, with Dr. Rand McClain, a leader in the field of Regenerative and Sports Medicine.

  • Listen to learn about what hormesis is and the role it plays in sustainable health!
  • You can learn more about Rand at DrRandMcclain.com, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
  • Get your copy of Cheating Death HERE

Thanks, as always for listening! If you got some value and enjoyed the show, please leave us a review here: https://ratethispodcast.com/lifebloodpodcast

You can learn more about us at LifeBlood.Live, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube and Facebook or you’d like to be a guest on the show, contact us at contact@LifeBlood.Live.

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Want to say “Thanks!” You can buy us a cup of coffee.
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How to Add Years to Your Life w/ Dr. Rand McClain | Heal Thy Self

Special Guest Segment:

Introducing Rand McClain

Dr. Rand McClain, a world leader in longevity therapies & innovative anti-aging solutions, explains his ultimate pillars of living a long, healthy and fulfilling life, through cutting edge, scientifically-backed health and wellness practices.

  • What is the #1 thing you need to be doing to live longer
  • The Tripod of longevity
  • Is Napping healthy?
  • What are some of Rand’s major pillars for better sleep?
  • Showering before bed, is it healthy?
  • Eating late at night, what are the repercussions?
  • Why do some people wake up through the night?
  • The Importance of winding down for the night
  • Major pillars of exercise
  • Are HIIT workouts beneficial?
  • Is just Cardio enough?
  • Should more women be lifting weights?
  • Muscle is synonymous with metabolism
  • Foundational Nutrition
  • Finding the diet that’s best for you
  • Green tea, benefits and studies on health
  • Turmeric and curcumin
  • TOP five foods for longevity
  • All about Cholesterol
  • Supplements and Hacks for Longevity
  • STEM cells
  • Hot and Cold Therapy
  • Hormone replacement therapy
  • Being your own scientist to find what’s best for you
  • All about Dr. Rand McClain’s Book: Cheating Death

Knowledge Bomb:

Dr. G gives us the TOP three easy and free ways to kickstart your emotional healing and feeling better in your body and mind.

  • Three easy tips for healing repressed emotion
  • Relaxing your belly
  • Belly breathing
  • Connecting with your body
  • Identifying tension in the body
  • Where are you holding emotion
  • The body has the tools to heal
  • Bringing awareness to tension in the body
  • Connecting to the breath and voice