Health vs Hype with the American Medical Association

Microplastics are in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the water we drink. But how worried should we really be about microplastics and our health? From headlines about plastic particles in the human brain to claims about cancer, inflammation, and fertility, it can be hard to separate legitimate health concerns from online hype.

On this episode of Health vs. Hype with the American Medical Association, host Trace Dominguez talks with journalist, author, and podcaster A.J. Jacobs about his experiment trying to avoid plastic for 24 hours, and why going plastic-free proved nearly impossible. Then, Dr. Philip Kuriakose, a senior staff physician at Henry Ford Health, breaks down what research tells us about microplastics and nanoplastics, how these tiny particles enter the body, and what scientists are still trying to understand about their potential health effects.

Can microplastics cause cancer? Could they affect the immune system, gut health, or fertility? And can eating fiber and kimchi, or sweating in a sauna help remove them from the body?

Discover what the evidence actually says, which everyday sources of plastic exposure are worth considering, and what practical steps may help reduce exposure. Because when it comes to microplastics, the goal isn’t to panic about every potential risk. It’s to understand the science, recognize what we still don’t know, and separate health from hype.

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Can probiotics, prebiotics, sea moss, and fermented foods really improve your gut health? And what does the science actually say about your gut microbiome?

On this episode of Health vs. Hype from the American Medical Association, host Trace Dominguez explores the science behind gut health trends with Danielle Brown, holistic nutritionist and New York Times bestselling cookbook author behind Healthy Girl Kitchen, and Dr. Mohamed Mokadem, gastroenterologist and professor of medicine at the University of Iowa.

From sea moss gel and probiotic supplements to postbiotics, prebiotics, fermented foods, and so-called “leaky gut,” we examine which wellness claims have scientific support and where the evidence is still developing. Dr. Mokadem explains what the gut microbiome does, how diet and antibiotics can affect it, and what researchers know about the gut-brain connection and its relationship to digestion, stress, and mental health.

We also explore whether everyone needs a probiotic, how prebiotics differ from probiotics, what postbiotics actually are, and why there’s no single ideal microbiome for everyone. Plus, Danielle shares her personal journey with plant-based eating and gut health, while Dr. Mokadem explains why restrictive elimination diets and expensive supplements may not be the answer for everyone. Learn what the evidence supports, which warning signs deserve medical attention, and how a varied, balanced diet can help support digestive health.

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Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is everywhere right now, but what does the science actually say about HRT for menopause and perimenopause? In this episode of Health vs. Hype, Trace Dominguez separates the evidence from the hype around one of the most debated topics in women’s health.

Dr. Elizabeth Lapeyre, a board-certified OB-GYN and menopause specialist, explains what happens to estrogen and progesterone during perimenopause and menopause, which symptoms hormone therapy can help, and how the risks and benefits of HRT have changed as the science has evolved. We look at the history of the Women’s Health Initiative study, why its findings had such a lasting impact on how people viewed HRT, and why details like the type of hormone, how it’s delivered, when treatment begins, and a person’s health history matter.

Plus, Pilar Guzman of Oprah Daily and CeCe Moreno of Silver Sister Says share their perspectives on why menopause is finally getting more attention, and why there’s still a lot we don’t know.

HRT isn't simply all good or all bad. So what does the evidence really tell us?

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GLP-1s have become one of the biggest stories in health and weight loss. But beyond the headlines and social-media hype, what do we actually know?

Trace Dominguez breaks down how GLP-1 medications work with obesity medicine specialist Dr. Sean Hashmi, while online influencers Todd Masterson and Ashley Gibson share their experiences, including changes in appetite, weight, and what some people call “food noise.”

Then we go beyond weight loss. Researchers are investigating GLP-1s for sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, addiction, and other conditions. Some of the findings are intriguing. Others are preliminary. And some claims circulating online don't have enough evidence behind them yet.

We also get into GLP-1 side effects, compounded medications, long-term treatment, weight regain, and the next generation of drugs.

Because when it comes to GLP-1s, the science is moving quickly. The challenge is knowing the difference between what we know and what we hope might be true.

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Maybe you've seen someone wearing a glowing red LED mask on social media. Or an ad promising smoother skin, thicker hair, less pain, and faster recovery – all from a few minutes under a red light. But how much of that is backed by science?

In this episode of Health vs. Hype, Trace Dominguez shines a light on one of the internet's biggest wellness trends: red light therapy. Joined by dermatologist Dr. Margareta Masse, he explores how photobiomodulation works, why different wavelengths matter, and which claims have real evidence behind them. Along the way, influencer Sly Huncho, skincare creator Rosa Hoffman, and melanoma survivor Mika Stambaugh share their personal experiences using red light therapy for everything from acne and wrinkles to wound healing and inflammation.

So, can red light therapy actually boost collagen? Does it help acne, scars, or hair loss? And are those expensive at-home masks worth the money? Tune in as we separate science from social media and find out whether red light therapy is all health... or just hype.

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Cold plunges. Ice baths. Saunas. Contrast therapy has taken over social media, with influencers and athletes claiming that alternating between hot and cold can speed muscle recovery, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, boost mental health, and even make you more resilient. But does the science actually support those claims? In this episode of Health vs. Hype, host Trace Dominguez explores what happens inside your body when you switch between heat and cold, why a cold plunge can leave you feeling energized and euphoric, and whether contrast therapy delivers more than a temporary boost. Joined by sports medicine physician Dr. Chelsea Evans, Trace separates the evidence from the hype, explaining what research shows about pain relief, athletic recovery, circulation, mood, and long-term health benefits—and who should think twice before taking the plunge.

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Intermittent fasting has become a big wellness trend online , but does the science actually support the hype?

In this episode of Health vs Hype, host Trace Dominguez digs into the medical evidence behind intermittent fasting with obesity medicine specialist Dr. Jen Schriever. Together, they break down the biggest claims surrounding fasting, including weight loss, insulin resistance, metabolic health, autophagy, mental clarity, longevity, and “metabolic reset.”

You’ll hear real experiences from intermittent fasting advocates Gin Stephens and Al Kavadlo, alongside expert analysis about what current research actually shows and where the evidence is still weak. Is intermittent fasting better than traditional calorie restriction? Can fasting improve blood sugar or help prevent disease? And who should avoid fasting altogether?

This episode explores:

• The science of intermittent fasting and weight loss
• Insulin resistance, blood sugar, and metabolic health
• Claims about autophagy, longevity, and cellular repair
• Mental clarity and cognitive benefits
• Risks for people with diabetes or eating disorders
• Intermittent fasting vs GLP-1 medications like Wegovy and Zepbound
• Why diet quality still matters more than eating windows

If you’ve ever wondered whether intermittent fasting is truly healthy, or just another overhyped wellness trend, this episode separates evidence from marketing.

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Can detox teas, juice cleanses, and parasite cleanses actually flush toxins out of your body or is the wellness industry overselling the science?

In this episode of Health vs Hype, Trace sits down with gastroenterologist Dr. David Purow to unpack one of the biggest wellness trends online: detoxing. Together, they break down what toxins really are, how the body naturally detoxifies itself, and why many popular detox products may be unnecessary or even harmful.

The episode explores social media claims surrounding heavy metals, microplastics, “detox pathways,” parasite cleanses, brain fog, bloating, inflammation, and fatigue. You’ll hear insights from wellness creator Mina Adams alongside evidence-based medical perspectives on whether detox regimens actually work. You’ll also hear from Steve Lutsk, an online fitness coach and detox doubter. 

Dr. Purow explains how the liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, and even the brain already have built-in systems designed to remove waste and harmful substances. He also discusses why healthy habits like sleep, hydration, nutrition, movement, and exercise support the body far more effectively than trendy and expensive detox products or quick-fix cleanses.

The conversation also tackles:

• Juice cleanses and detox teas
• Parasite cleanse trends on TikTok and Instagram
• Heavy metals and microplastic fears
• “Resetting” your gut or digestive system
• The psychology of wellness quick fixes

If you’ve ever wondered whether detoxes are science-backed, this episode separates health facts from wellness hype.

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VO2 Max is everywhere, from fitness trackers and smartwatches to social media and even dating profiles. But what does this number actually mean for your health?

In this episode of Health vs. Hype, we break down the science behind VO2 Max (maximal oxygen consumption) and whether it truly deserves its status as the ultimate fitness and longevity metric.

With insights from cardiologist Dr. Robert Maynard and real-world experiences from elite athletes and everyday runners, we explore:

• What VO2 max measures, and how it reflects cardiovascular, respiratory, and muscular health
• Whether smartwatch VO2 Max estimates are accurate (and how they compare to lab testing)
• How VO2 Max relates to longevity, heart disease risk, and overall fitness
• Why this single number doesn’t tell the whole story about your health or performance
• When VO2 Max testing is useful and when it might be unnecessary (or even overkill)

You’ll hear firsthand what it’s like to take a clinical VO2 Max test, why the metric has gone viral, and how to use it without getting obsessed with the number.

Bottom line: VO2 Max is one of the most powerful predictors of health but it’s not the only one that matters.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your fitness tracker’s VO2 Max score is meaningful, or just hype, this episode has your answer.

To learn more, visit: amahealthvshype.org

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Creatine has officially gone mainstream, but is it actually worth the hype?

Once known as a “gym bro” supplement, creatine is now trending across TikTok and Instagram for everything from muscle growth to brain health and longevity. In this episode of Health vs. Hype with the American Medical Association, host Trace Dominguez cuts through the noise to answer two simple questions: what does creatine really do and who should be taking it?

Featuring insights from Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jason Mitchell, fitness influencer Tony Coffey, and twin sisters, Cynthia Heyd and Leslie White exploring creatine for healthy aging, this episode breaks down the science behind one of the most researched supplements on the market.

We explore:

• How creatine works in the body and why it boosts performance
• The truth about muscle gain, weight changes, and fat loss claims
• Whether creatine is safe (and who should avoid it)
• The difference between creatine monohydrate and trendy alternatives
• The rising hype around brain health and what the research actually says

Along the way, we unpack common misconceptions, influencer-driven marketing tactics, and the “magic pill” mindset fueling creatine’s viral popularity.

To learn more, visit: amahealthvshype.org

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In this episode of Health vs. Hype with the American Medical Association, host Trace Dominguez uncovers the science behind viral sleep trends, and reveals what actually works to improve sleep quality.

From mouth tape and melatonin to your sleep tracker, breathwork, and sleep divorces, millions of Americans are experimenting with trending sleep hacks. More than half of U.S. adults have tried at least one viral sleep trend. But are these methods backed by science…or just social media hype?

Featuring insights from lifestyle content creator Lucie Fink, sleep storyteller Kathryn Nicolai, and sleep medicine expert Dr. Jose Colon, this episode answers the questions:

• Does your sleep tracker actually improve sleep or increase anxiety?
• Is mouth tape safe or potentially dangerous?
• How much sleep do you really need for optimal health?
• What is heart rate variability (HRV), and does it matter?

You’ll also learn why “trying harder” to sleep can backfire, how social media influences health behaviors, and which simple, evidence-based strategies can help you fall asleep faster and wake up feeling restored.

If you’ve ever struggled with insomnia, experimented with sleep optimization, or wondered whether viral wellness trends are worth it, this episode gets to the bottom of it all.

To learn more, visit: amahealthvshype.org

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High-protein diets are everywhere from TikTok trends to protein-packed coffee, pasta, and even bottled water. But is “protein maxxing” actually healthy? And how much protein do you really need?

In this first episode of Health vs Hype from the American Medical Association and iHeartMedia’s Ruby Studio, host Trace Dominguez explores one of the most talked-about nutrition trends online. With bold claims about building muscle, losing weight, and optimizing health, protein has become the centerpiece of many diets, but what does science say about protein maxxing?

We’ll talk to folks interested in the protein maxxing trend, an influencer who lives by it, and an expert physician who gives us all the answers to some of the biggest questions people are asking online: 

• Does eating more protein automatically build muscle?
• How much protein is too much?
• Are high-protein diets safe for everyone?
• Is animal protein better than plant protein?

If you’ve ever wondered whether a high-protein diet is right for you, or felt overwhelmed by conflicting advice online, this episode will help you make sense of it all.

Health vs Hype is a podcast from the American Medical Association that takes on viral health trends and breaks them down with real stories, expert insight, and evidence-based guidance.

Listen in to find out: is protein maxxing all health… or just hype?

To learn more, visit: amahealthvshype.org

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Got a symptom? There's an influencer for that. A supplement for that. A subreddit, a detox, a cold plunge for that.

But what actually works — and what could actually hurt you?

Introducing: Health vs. Hype with the American Medical Association — a science-backed health podcast that breaks down viral wellness trends, health misinformation, and the advice flooding your feed.

Emmy-nominated science communicator Trace Dominguez sits down with influencers, the curious, and most importantly doctors to fact-check viral health claims – everything from intermittent fasting and protein maxxing to creatine. Cold plunges and more! Not to cancel the trends, not to hype them more, but to understand them.

Your health is your greatest asset. Don't leave it to an algorithm.

Let’s slow the scroll…and start asking better questions.

Health vs. Hype: new episodes drop every other week starting April 14th. Available wherever you listen to podcasts.

To learn more, visit: amahealthvshype.org

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