Dr. Zach Bush & Jay Shetty ON Healing Your Gut With Science

On this episode of the On Purpose podcast, Jay Shetty interviews Dr. Zach Bush, an internal medicine expert,, and a holistic wellness champion.

Their dialogue offers valuable insights and inspiring ideas to help listeners understand health and well-being better and their connection with the world around them.

From Conventional to Internal Medicine

Dr. Zach Bush shared with Jay Shetty his journey from traditional medicine to a more holistic approach. He was frustrated with the limitations of relying on drugs to treat symptoms, realizing the need to get to the root causes of diseases. This led him to explore the connection between gut health, inflammation, and chronic illnesses, which changed how he saw healthcare.

Dr. Bush discovered that the gut plays a vital role in overall well-being. He found that chronic inflammation is often at the core of many diseases. This was a significant shift from the usual approach of managing symptoms with medication. So he focused on understanding the underlying causes of ailments, aiming for true healing and long-term wellness.

Dr. Zach Bush believes in empowering individuals to make informed choices supporting the body's natural ability to heal. He explained to Jay Shetty the importance of nurturing the body, mind, and spirit to restore balance and vitality. Beyond just visiting the doctor, he encourages a holistic approach that includes nutrition, lifestyle, and the environment.

Inflammation Epidemic

Jay Shetty noticed the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. As Dr. Bush emphasizes, inflammation is a critical contributor to these conditions. It is the body's natural response to injury or infection, a way to protect and heal itself. However, when inflammation becomes chronic and persists for long periods, it can lead to various health problems.

Dr. Bush highlights the significance of environmental toxins, such as pollutants and chemicals, that surround us daily. These toxins can trigger and perpetuate chronic inflammation, putting our well-being at risk. He explained to Jay Shetty that consuming highly processed foods packed with sugar and unhealthy fats can fuel inflammation within the body. Sedentary lifestyles and chronic stress also contribute to this inflammatory response.

The good news is that by addressing inflammation, we have the potential to prevent and even reverse many diseases. Therefore, Dr. Bush encourages listeners to take charge of their health by making conscious choices.

Empathy vs. Compassion

The conversation shifts to the power of empathy and compassion in our relationships and communities. Dr. Bush breaks down the distinction between the two, highlighting their unique roles in fostering meaningful connections. He told Jay Shetty that empathy allows us to step into someone else's shoes, to understand and share their emotions. It's about being able to relate and empathize with others on a deeper level.

However, Dr. Bush emphasizes that compassion takes empathy to the next level. It's not just about understanding; it's about taking action to alleviate suffering. Compassion is the driving force behind acts of kindness and support. It's empathy in action, actively seeking to make a positive impact in the lives of others. By cultivating empathy and compassion, we can create a ripple effect of understanding and empathy that extends beyond ourselves.

Humans can foster deeper connections and create a more compassionate and inclusive society by embracing empathy and compassion. It starts with recognizing the power of empathy and actively practicing it in our daily interactions. When we combine empathy with compassion, we can make a real difference in the lives of others, Dr. Bush shared with Jay Shetty.

Change Is Exciting

Dr. Zach Bush and Jay Shetty examine the topic of change. They assert that it is not something to fear but rather an exciting opportunity for growth and personal transformation. Dr. Bush encourages the listeners to approach life's challenges with curiosity, adaptability, and an open mind. Instead of resisting change due to fear or discomfort, Dr. Bush suggests embracing the unknown and viewing change as a catalyst for your evolution.

It's essential to let go of rigid beliefs and expectations, allowing ourselves to be open to new possibilities and experiences. Dr. Bush emphasizes that when you release attachment to how things have always been, you create space for unexpected blessings and opportunities for self-discovery. He shared with Jay Shetty that change can lead us on transformative journeys that foster personal and spiritual growth.

The Eight Factors That Influence Our Lives

Dr. Zach Bush presents to Jay Shetty his 8-week program centered around eight fundamental factors that impact our health and well-being. These factors form the foundation of his program, promoting holistic and comprehensive self-care.

1. Water: it is essential for hydration and maintaining optimal bodily functions.
2. Food: it is vital in nourishing our bodies.
3. Breath: conscious breathing exercises can profoundly impact physical and mental health.
4. Relationships: meaningful connections with others are crucial for our well-being.
5. Movement: regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind.
6. Stress: managing stress is vital for overall well-being.
7. Fasting: intermittent fasting is a practice that involves alternating periods of eating and fasting.
8. Rest: restful sleep is crucial for our bodies to recharge and heal.

Dr. Bush's 8-week program integrates these eight factors to create a comprehensive approach to wellness. He described to Jay Shetty that the program guides individuals through implementing positive lifestyle changes and providing resources, education, and support. Participants learn practical strategies to enhance their hydration, nutrition, breathwork, relationships, physical activity, stress management, fasting practices, and sleep quality. By committing to this program, individuals can experience improved overall health, vitality, and well-being.

Crystal Water And Age

Dr. Zach Bush introduces the concept of crystal water and its impact on aging. He explains to Jay Shetty that crystal water refers to the water within the body cells and the structure it forms. When our cells are well-hydrated with structured water, it promotes optimal cellular function and slows aging.

By maintaining proper hydration levels and drinking clean, structured water, we can support the vitality of our cells. Structured water has a unique molecular arrangement that allows for better nutrient absorption and waste removal, enhancing cellular health and rejuvenation.

Drinking water free from contaminants and having undergone proper filtration ensures that it nourishes our cells and supports their function. Additionally, Dr. Bush illustrated to Jay Shetty the significance of mineral-rich water, as minerals play a vital role in cellular communication and energy production. Adequate mineral intake and structured water can profoundly affect our well-being and vitality.

Dr. Bush encourages individuals to prioritize hydration and make conscious choices regarding the water they consume. Focusing on clean, structured water and mineral-rich sources can support our cells' health, slow aging, and promote overall vitality.

Humans' Relationship With Water

Dr. Zach Bush explores the relationship between humans and water. He shares with Jay Shetty the water's essential role in our bodies. Moreover, he emphasizes the importance of hydration for overall health.

Water constitutes a significant portion of our bodies and is crucial for various bodily functions. It helps regulate body temperature, transport nutrients, remove waste products, and lubricate joints. Without adequate water intake, our bodies can experience dehydration, leading to fatigue, decreased cognitive function, and impaired bodily processes.

Dr. Bush highlights to Jay Shetty the detrimental effects of consuming water contaminated with toxins and pollutants, which can negatively impact our well-being. We must prioritize drinking clean water to support our body's functioning and vitality.

Moreover, Dr. Bush delves into the impact of water on cellular health and highlights the role of structured water in promoting optimal cellular function. Structured water, which has a unique molecular arrangement, allows for better absorption of nutrients and waste removal within our cells. By consuming structured water, we can support our cells' health and well-being.

Back to The Roots: Farming

Dr. Zach Bush shared with Jay Shetty that humans have become disconnected from their food sources and the natural world in modern society. Industrialized farming practices have prioritized quantity over quality, leading to the degradation of our soils and the loss of biodiversity. Therefore, Dr. Bush advocates a shift towards regenerative farming methods that harmonize with nature.

Regenerative agriculture focuses on building healthy soil ecosystems, promoting biodiversity, and restoring the natural balance of nutrients. By embracing regenerative practices, farmers can enhance soil fertility, reduce the need for chemical inputs, and increase the nutritional value of crops. This approach also helps sequester carbon from the atmosphere, mitigating the impact of climate change.

Dr. Bush stresses to Jay Shetty the profound impact of regenerative farming on our health. Nutrient-dense foods grown in healthy soils provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support our well-being. We can nourish our bodies by consuming locally sourced, organic produce and contributing to a more sustainable food system.

Additionally, regenerative farming offers a sense of connection and purpose. Engaging in agriculture allows individuals to reconnect with nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for the Earth's cycles and the importance of stewardship. It also creates opportunities for community engagement and the revitalization of rural economies.

Mind Your Breath

Dr. Zach Bush emphasizes the profound significance of breath. It is an essential teaching that Jay Shetty also learned as a monk. It’s a practice that encourages listeners to engage with their breath for improved well-being.

Breathing is a simple exchange of air and a vital mechanism for creating new life. We participate in a continuous cycle of giving and receiving by inhaling and exhaling. When we exhale, we release carbon dioxide and millions of tiny genetic signals called microRNA, which express who we are to the world.

Deep breathing allows for an effective exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide at the cellular level. This exchange will enable you to utilize oxygen and support your body's functions fully. However, many have developed shallow breathing patterns due to stress and anxiety, depriving themselves of the benefits of deep, intentional breaths.

Dr. Bush highlights the interconnectedness between humans' breath and the planet's breathing ability. Just as we need carbon dioxide to use oxygen effectively, the Earth relies on exchanging carbon dioxide and oxygen for its balance and cooling. Unfortunately, our current environmental practices have disrupted this balance, hindering the Earth's ability to take a deep breath.

Incorporating breathwork into your daily lives allows you to tap into a deep reservoir of vitality and resilience. Dr. Bush suggests exploring breathing techniques and mindfulness practices to discover what resonates with you. He added that through conscious breathing, you can reconnect with your body, calm your mind, and tap into the transformative power of the breath.

Where to Find Dr. Zach Bush

Jay Shetty asked Dr. Zach Bush how people can connect with him and learn more about his work. His website is zachbushmd.com. You will find many resources there, including his eight-week Intrinsic Health program. This program delves into the intelligence of nature, providing deep soil science insights and offering supplements to support overall wellness.

Engaging with the community platforms created by Dr. Bush allows you to connect with like-minded individuals and contribute to creating solutions for a better future. Coming together in a community can harness the collective intelligence and diverse perspectives needed for positive change.

Holistic Approach to Well-Being

Dr. Bush highlighted to Jay Shetty the importance of addressing root causes rather than just symptoms, embracing change as an opportunity for growth, and fostering empathy and compassion in your interactions.

External factors like water, food, breath, relationships, exercise, stress, fasting, and rest are essential in shaping your health and vitality. Understanding and nurturing these aspects can cultivate a more holistic approach to wellness.

More From Jay Shetty

Listen to the entire On Purpose with Jay Shetty podcast episode on “Dr. Zach Bush ON Science Based Approach to Healing Your Gut Health & How to Prevent Disease with Nutrition” now in the iTunes store or on Spotify. For more inspirational stories and messages like this, check out Jay’s website at jayshetty.me.