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In this episode Dr. Lenz, is interviewed by Kristen Hovet, host of The Other Autism Podcast. The conversation delves into Dr. Lenz's medical background, his dedication to lifelong learning, and his focus on chronic pain syndromes such as fibromyalgia, EDS, POTS, and more. Dr. Lenz explains three types of pain: nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic pain, and discusses the significant overlap between invisible illnesses and neurodivergence, including ADHD and autism. The interview sheds light on the challenges and misconceptions in diagnosing these conditions, emphasizing the need for a holistic, evidence-based approach to support patients.

00:00 Introduction to the Interview
00:17 Meet Dr. Michael Lenz
02:50 Understanding Chronic Pain Syndromes
06:27 Exploring Fibromyalgia and Related Conditions
08:31 Personal Journey and Insights
18:06 Challenges in Diagnosing and Treating Chronic Pain
32:11 Tailoring Treatment for Neurodivergent Patients
41:22 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

Connect with Joy Lenz here, a Registered Dietitian and member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine.

Click here for the Starter Pack.

Support the show

A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.

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In this week's episode, we delve into Annie Kotowicz's book 'What I Mean When I Say I'm Autistic,' exploring her autistic life. The episode highlights her personal experiences before and after diagnosis, offering insights into sensory sensitivities, social interactions, and the nuances of living as an autistic adult. Addressing common misconceptions, Annie's narrative is a blend of memoir and manifesto, aimed at helping both autistic individuals and those around them better understand and appreciate the autistic mind.

00:00 Introduction to This Week's Episode
00:17 Inside the Mind of an Autistic Woman
00:52 Understanding Autism and Its Impact
02:07 The Importance of Adult Diagnosis
03:13 Personal Experiences and Reflections
05:41 Discovering Autism in Adulthood
09:45 The Concept of Masking
18:34 Sensory Sensitivity and Empathy
28:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with Joy Lenz here, a Registered Dietitian and member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine.

Click here for the Starter Pack.

Support the show

A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

In the second half of the conversation with dietitian Joy Lenz, practical advice is shared on transitioning to a healthier, more plant-based diet. Topics include common nutrient deficiencies like fiber versus protein, tips for incorporating plant-based protein sources such as legumes, nuts, and whole grains, and dealing with dietary concerns and social challenges. Joy provides insights into common pitfalls people face when going plant-based and offers solutions, including her work with clients. Strategies for meal planning, handling cravings, and personalized diet plans are also discussed.

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
00:19 Protein vs. Fiber: What's More Important?
01:05 Addressing Protein Deficiency Myths
03:44 Plant-Based Protein Sources
05:42 High-Fiber Plant-Based Foods
08:31 Common Mistakes in Transitioning to Plant-Based Diet
13:51 Navigating Social and Family Challenges
18:50 Working with a Dietitian
26:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with Joy Lenz here, a Registered Dietitian and member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine.

Click here for the Starter Pack.

Support the show

A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

Transitioning to a Whole Foods Plant-Based Lifestyle: Insights For Better Health

In this week's episode, the hosts delve into the concept of a whole foods plant-based diet, prompted by a listener question from Dan. Joy Lenz, a registered dietitian with an extensive background in nutrition and culinary education shares her personal journey into adopting this lifestyle and explains the fundamental principles that distinguish it from vegetarian and vegan diets. The discussion covers practical tips for transitioning to a whole foods plant-based diet, including examples of breakfast, lunch, and dinner transformations and the benefits of batch cooking. Joy dispels common myths and outlines numerous health benefits, such as improved gut health, weight loss, reduced inflammation, and lower risks of chronic diseases.

00:00 Introduction and Listener Question
00:25 Meet Joy Lenz: A Registered Dietitian's Journey
00:50 Discovering the Whole Foods Plant-Based Diet
05:48 Understanding Whole Foods Plant-Based Lifestyle
11:18 Health Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet
17:02 Debunking Myths About Plant-Based Diets
19:13 Practical Tips for Transitioning to Plant-Based Eating
24:23 Meal Transformations and Batch Cooking
27:57 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview

Connect with Joy Lenz here, a Registered Dietitian and member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine.

Click here for the Starter Pack.

Support the show

A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

In this insightful episode, the focus is on ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), a complex eating disorder officially recognized in 2013. The discussion covers how ARFID differs from typical picky eating, its unique characteristics, manifestation, and common misunderstandings. The episode features the personal account of a young adult dealing with ARFID alongside anxiety, neurodivergence, and chronic pain. It emphasizes holistic treatment approaches, including therapeutic relationships, gradual exposure to new foods, and a biopsychosocial spiritual environmental model. The episode wraps up with practical advice for caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals, highlighting the importance of empathy, patience, and collaboration in helping individuals with ARFID thrive. Additionally, it provides insights on how to support young adults and the importance of recognizing co-occurring conditions.

00:00 Introduction to ARFID
01:13 Understanding ARFID vs. Picky Eating
04:02 Case Study: Navigating ARFID with Neurodivergence
05:12 The Role of Gut Health in ARFID
06:55 Therapeutic Approaches and Practical Advice
10:56 Building Trust and Collaborative Treatment
19:50 Holistic and Long-Term Strategies
25:46 Conclusion and Resources

Connect with Joy Lenz here, a Registered Dietitian and member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine.

Click here for the Starter Pack.

Support the show

A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

In this special two-part interview, Keira Oseroff Lambert, an expert in eating disorders, delves into the challenges surrounding food, eating, and nutrition. The discussion highlights influential models like Ellyn Satter's division of responsibility, strategies for addressing sensory sensitivities, and practical advice for supporting neurodivergent individuals. The interview provides valuable insights for parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of eating behaviors.

00:00 Introductions
02:08 Keira's Journey and Professional Background
04:24 Introduction to Ellyn Satter and Her Work
06:30 Implementing Ellyn's Models in Real Life
07:17 Personal Experiences and Professional Growth
17:37 Practical Advice for Parents and Caregivers
18:42 Challenges and Strategies for Picky Eaters
39:14 Accommodating Neurodivergent Individuals
51:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with Joy Lenz here, a Registered Dietitian and member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine.

Click here for the Starter Pack.

Support the show

A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

Impact of ADHD on Obesity and Weight Loss Management

This episode explores the significant impact of ADHD on obesity and challenges in maintaining a healthy diet. Last week's discussion on the pleasure trap and social environment dynamics sets the stage for this week's review of a 2009 study on treating refractory obesity in severely obese adults newly diagnosed with ADHD. The study, published in the International Journal of Obesity, investigates whether ADHD pharmacologic treatment leads to sustained weight loss. The findings reveal a higher prevalence of severe obesity among individuals with ADHD and significant weight loss in treated individuals. The episode further delves into the complexities of ADHD's impact on time management, task completion, and emotional regulation, which are crucial for successful weight loss. Additionally, it discusses the implications for weight loss surgery candidates and the potential benefits of integrating ADHD treatment with lifestyle and dietary interventions, including whole food plant-based diets. The episode concludes with insights into treating binge eating disorder and its connection with ADHD, highlighting the effectiveness of medications like Vyvanse. Listeners are encouraged to consider the bio-psycho-social holistic multifaceted approach to managing obesity and chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia.

00:00 Understanding ADHD's Impact on Obesity
00:39 Exploring the Study on ADHD and Obesity Treatment
06:39 Study Findings and Discussion
14:01 Implications
22:18 Binge Eating Disorder
32:30 Conclusion and Future Directions

Connect with Joy Lenz here, a Registered Dietitian and member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine.

Click here for the Starter Pack.

Support the show

A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

In this episode, listeners explore the challenges of maintaining a healthy diet, particularly a whole food plant-based diet, crucial for managing fibromyalgia and chronic pain. Dr. Lenz delves into the concept of the pleasure trap, the biological and psychological challenges posed by modern high-calorie foods, and the additional complexities introduced by conditions like ADHD. The episode provides strategies to overcome these barriers, emphasizing the importance of resetting taste buds, eliminating triggers, meal planning, and building a support network.

00:00 Introduction to Fibromyalgia and Healthy Eating
00:43 Challenges of Adopting a Whole Foods Plant-Based Diet
02:21 Understanding the Pleasure Trap
07:55 Overcoming Barriers to Healthy Eating
10:57 Strategies to Escape the Pleasure Trap
18:12 ADHD and Its Impact on Healthy Eating
24:10 Conclusion and Next Steps

Connect with Joy Lenz here, a Registered Dietitian and member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine.

Click here for the Starter Pack.

Support the show

A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.