This page is a glimpse into my dynamic library, highlighting a few of my research avenues, reference tools, and go-to resources. Please check back from time to time as not only might I add more titles, but because I am continually learning, the information may be updated to reflect new findings.
The presentation is not done in any particular order of importance nor should it imply one listing is favorited over another. You might even notice that I tend to favor alphabetical order whenever I make lists for ease of locating information and in an effort to dissociate from implied preferential treatment. I suggest taking a look at the Disclaimers page for additional remarks in relation to my content and external links and hop over to my Shopping page for more ways to find useful resources.
BOOKS, MAGAZINES, PERIODICALS
While there are notable advantages to electronic reading, I am old school and much prefer books for research and reference. A strategy I rely on is to "try before I buy" - that is, to borrow the book, magazine, or periodical from the library for a test run. Sometimes, one pass through the pages is all I need to know if it is worth adding to my bookshelf. So, remember to make use of your public library, free online book sites, and apps, like Hoopla, as these tools might save space on your bookshelf and support a budget friendly approach to building a personal library.
Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth
WEBSITES
Experts, Researchers & Seasoned Influencers - these names are synonymous with a respectable education, years of experience, and reliable research.
Biochemnortic - Benedicte Lerche is a Biochemist MSc, Ph.D. who has a variety of resources, including her self-published book, “How I Overcame Hypothyroidism”, and offers 1:1 counseling services to help you balance your hormones.
Cows Eat Grass - This is a blog that informs readers of the very real dangers of some of the consumables that are promoted as being safe while scientifically proving the benefits of a number other "controversial" nutrients that are demonized and purported to be destructive. The author cites numerous studies and gives the reader ample tools to further their own research, enabling the important task of thinking for oneself. Several of his publications are available for purchase on Amazon.
Dr. Westin Childs - As a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, and with training in Functional and Anti-Aging disciplines, his blog provides informative articles and helpful tools such as .pdf's and supplements for working with your health care provider along with navigating the complexities of thyroid conditions and associated labs.
Georgi Dinkov - Known as "Haidut", this Bulgarian researcher's blog contains topics spanning from the metabolic theory of health, medicine, biochemistry, physiology, and science, to insight into politics, society, and the arts. His content is driven by his own research, personal experience, and inspired by the work of Dr. Ray Peat. It's worthwhile to search for podcasts, articles, forums, and channels that feature Haidut as a guest.
Chris Masterjohn, PhD - Educator, researcher, and truth seeker as it applies to all things diet (food and supplements) and lifestyle in a genuine effort to facilitate healing and support optimal health. I admire that he celebrates that he is continually learning and that he passes on this evolving experience in easy to understand explanations and action steps.
Forefronthealth.com - This blog is insightful and consistent with many of the practices I employ. It proves a good resource but I encourage you to look further into other contributing factors and understand, as an example, that some have the belief that adrenals drive the thyroid while others will attest that the thyroid affects the adrenals.
MTHFR.net - Prime resource on the MTHFR gene expression which is responsible for causing or contributing to a number of health conditions. Dr. Ben Lynch is the leading expert and has numerous offerings including a best selling book, videos, articles, and loads of easy to navigate information.
Paloma Health - Offering at home thyroid blood tests, consultations with physicians to guide and prescribe, plus a plethora of articles and resources to help you get (and keep) your thyroid on track.
Ray Peat (memory eternal +) - Holding a Ph.D. in Biology from the University of Oregon, with specialization in physiology, this seasoned researcher, educator, and nutritional consultant has brought masterful insight into the science behind food, lifestyle, and hormones. He calls out and moves past corporate greed as a motivator along with the "marketing" of people and, with the backing of a lifetime of research and discovery. Within his rich writings, he offers fundamental, actionable, and achievable steps for healing and the cultivation of health.
If you wish to sift through the countless interviews he's done, many of which are available on YouTube, this link is exceptionally helpful in searching the audio content and in pinpointing specific topics of interest and this one, this one, and this one are beneficial for searching through his email exchanges.
For a unique Peaty interaction, check out peatbot.com and, to create your own experience, use the colab notebook formatted here or check this resource - hat tip @BradCohn on Twitter (be sure to pop over to this all things Ray Peat thread Brad put together, too. It provides a comprehensive compilation of Peat resources. Many thanks to Brad and several others who thoughtfully chimed in!).
Stop the Thyroid Madness - An invaluable website for all things thyroid and adrenals. No, you're not crazy and yes, this site will have you feeling validated, supported, informed, and empowered. Shop the many books written by STTM here.
Pharmaceuticals & Supplements - It is always best to consult with your physician or pharmacist however, until you can conference with them, these sites are useful for understanding side effects, interactions with medications/supplements, and ways they may deplete important nutrients:
Herbs
Rain-Tree Publishers - “The Healing Power of Rainforest Medicinal Plants” - this site has a searchable database of plants found in the Amazon and other rain forests. They boast books, products, articles, how-to’s, photographs, resources for education, and more by Leslie Taylor, ND.
The Wild Pharma is a great resource for researching a variety of herbs and conditions. In addition to a plethora of information, there is also a helpful blog.
Skin Care, Beauty Products and Cosmetics -
Environmental Working Group (EWG) - this is a helpful site to find out exactly what an ingredient is and its implications on our health. Simply input the information and it will give you a rating and other detailed data to help you make an informed decision on which products are best for you.
Food - See also “What’s For Dinner?”
ReciPeats.com - recipes that follow the Ray Peat, PhD philosophy for nutrition and food as medicine. “The fastest loading recipe website, no ads, no PUFA. Crowdsourced and curated.”
Immunity, Parasites, Vaccines, and Vaccine Remorse -
Additional Credentialed Experts
For your own research quests -
Bioenergetic Forum - a newer forum, post the raypeatforum genre (which had grown to require a subscription). Host to hundreds, if not thousands, of researchers, ‘peaters’, proven experts, and people dedicated to health and wellness.
Bioenergetic Life - as mentioned above in the “Ray Peat” section, this is a great way to search and sift through the audio/video content of Ray Peat interviews as it relates to specific points of interest.
BioenergeticLive Radio - this is a new streaming broadcast of past and current interviews and other content as it relates to the work of Ray Peat, researchers, ‘peaters’, influencers, and other proven experts in the study of metabolic health. As of this posting, it is still under development and you may need to try a different browser if it doesn’t open for you.
Bioline International - A library of scientific bioscience journals published in developing countries.
Chadnet - “a sort of mix between a web directory, archive, and compendium of knowledge”, here you will find works from the likes of Ray Peat and categories such as health, practical skills, science, and more. A similar platform can be found at Expulsia.com.
Natural Thyroid Guide - great information on natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) and resources that relate to healing, including a helpful ‘find a practitioner’ page.
Orthomolecular Medicine - Therapeutic nutrition based on research, study, and is geared for bio-chemical individuality.
Peatbot.com - Ask the bot anything and it may lead you to your answer or a resource to help you find it on your own.
Pub-Med - This database offers countless studies, although some are limited viewing. It is a useful exercise to check who funded the study and other markers that would put the research into context.
Ray Peat Email Exchanges and Repository
www.refseek.com - Academic Resource Search. More than a billion sources: encyclopedia, monographies, magazines.
RePEc (Research Papers in Economics) - volunteers from 102 countries have collected almost 4 million publications on economics and related science.
www.science.gov - An American state search engine on 2200+ scientific sites.
Sci-Hub - This site provides mass, public access to research papers. The domain name can change so if you aren't able to open it, try doing a search. It is financed by users and has supports open access in science so use it at your own discretion.
Springer Link - Access to more than 10 million scientific documents: books, series, reference works, articles, and research protocols.
www.worldcat.org - Search for the contents of 20 thousand worldwide libraries and find items in libraries near you. Discover where lies the nearest rare book.
What’s Bugging You? - Part 7 - Important information, resources, references, and questions. This every growing page includes hundreds of studies, references, and leads to do a deep dive on parasites and the use of anti-parasitics regardless of the presence of parasites.
CHANNELS & PODCASTS
Jay Feldman - Home of The Energy Balance Podcast
Katarina H. - a speech-language pathologist, vocal health educator and voice optimizer, Katarina works with a very diverse group of people - including speakers and singers of all ages. Whether you are trying to strengthen your presentation voice, optimize your singing voice, supplement your efforts to heal from conditions such as Muscle Tension Dysphonia, or you are simply wanting to nurture your everyday speaking voice, Katarina does a remarkable job leading you through specific exercises and offering sage advice coupled with relevant support.
Matt Blackburn - This "health and longevity researcher" is chock full of fascinating information and insight. He has a great YouTube channel that's sure to get your wheels turning whether its his own research or an interview with a leading expert. His views have morphed and changed over the years and it is interesting to see his journey - whether or not you choose to follow his path. Either way, be sure to check out my shopping page or click here for great ways to save on his product line.
Danny Roddy - Host of The Generative Energy Podcast. Danny Roddy is an independent researcher, excellent interviewer, and best selling author who has not only helped himself but continues to support countless others in their journey to vitality. He has an outstanding podcast with guests from the likes of Dr. Ray Peat (remembering +) and Georgi Dinkov, and covers topics that range from hair loss, thyroid and other hormones, lactic acid, PUFAS, foods, farming, lifestyle, bioenergetic health, metabolism, stress, and so much more. He can be found across social media platforms and is very generous with his time and talent. (check both hyperlinks for access to his video podcasts as well as this conglomeration of foundational interviews from 2016-2018 with Dr. Peat).
ThermoDiet - I'm very careful about promoting any "diet" but I think there is wisdom to be found here. Through podcasts with Jayton Miller, there is an opportunity for exploring a variety of approaches while educating oneself on various mechanisms and practices. You may also recognize some familiar names of guests mentioned throughout my website, including from this page.
Analyze & Optimize - Some really great interviews and helpful explanations that get your wheels turning and help you to think for yourself.
EDUCATION
Nutritional Therapy Association - This ever evolving institution is where I earned my certificate as an FNTP. Not only do they offer great programs to expand your knowledge, but they also have up to date resources and wonderful support for Alumni.
HEALTHY MOVEMENT
Denise Austin - As America's exercise sweetheart, her infectious optimism and motivating spirit will keep you engaged throughout her sessions. She offers a range of exercises as well as a subscription option through her website.
Bob & Brad - These two fellas love to quip, "‘The Most Famous Physical Therapists on the Internet’ - in our opinion of course!!!" but they are truly popular for a reason. They provide excellent tips and tricks that are backed by over 50 years of combined PT experience on subjects such as preventing injury, alleviating pain and strain, and practicing sound ergonomics in a salt-of-the-earth delivery, that is relatable and lighthearted. You'll feel better just watching them!
Essentrics - This form of exercise takes the body through a combination of dynamic and fluid movements while the classical stretching videos are helpful in stretching, lengthening, and strengthening. "Based on the science of eccentric movement, the muscles are challenged in a lengthened position, resulting in a long, lean and toned shape." It has flowing movements that are reminiscent of tai chi and ballet and applies the healing principles of physiotherapy. "Essentrics promotes a pain-free body, greater joint mobility, a healthy cardiovascular system, maximum range of motion and perfect posture". Due to her own battle with breast cancer, Miranda Esmonde-White offers additional classes geared toward women who have gone through surgery and treatment however, Essentrics is for men and women of all ages and abilities.
FemFusion Fitness - Dr. Brianne Grogan is a "Doctor of Physical Therapy and wellness coach dedicated to making pelvic floor + core fitness safe, effective, and FUN" but you need only watch one video to recognize that she is all this and more. In addition to thoughtful insight, valuable information, detailed but easy to understand explanations, comprehensive demonstrations, compassionate support, a glowing personality, and practical tips, she specializes in providing informed direction for those with pelvic floor health issues. Her work speaks to women and men of all ages and abilities. "Dr. Bri", as her followers lovingly refer to her, has a plethora of resources including a website, blog, book, podcasts, and targeted programs such as:
Lift for Prolapse Relief - Suffering from prolapse? Lift by Vibrant Pelvic Health is a fully guided, 5 week prolapse recovery program that integrates body awareness, movement, nutrition, and the mind-body connection to bring your pelvic organs back into place. It is created and led by physical therapist, Dr. Bri, and backed by years of experience in the field of pelvic health.
Overcoming Pelvic Pain for Women - Overcome Pelvic Pain for Women not only teaches you the root cause of your pain, but fully guides you for 12 weeks as you relax, rebuild, and rejuvenate your pelvic floor. This integrated, at-home program was formulated with years of research and experience and will guide you back to strength through scientifically designed healing routines, mindset changes, and nutritional adjustments.
Overcoming Pelvic Pain for Men - A truly holistic approach to healing CPPS, Overcome Pelvic Pain takes you through 12 weeks of progressive healing routines, deep relaxation poses, nutritional changes, and a self-hypnosis component to treat the root cause. This leading at-home, guided program created by an actual overcomer of pelvic pain and a Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Dr. Andrea Furlan - A physician, scientist and professor of Medicine who specializes in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R or Physiatry), her educational channel teaches about causes, prevention, treatment, therapeutic support, safe movement, and management of chronic pain. She provides clear explanations and easy to follow demonstrations of exercises, offers a number of options for mitigating pain/stiffness, soothing arthritis and soreness, and gently strengthening muscles. Dr. Andrea takes into consideration situations such as injuries, joint replacements, and other limitations, all while encouraging proper ergonomics.
Silver Sneakers - I know what you're thinking...that's for old people. Well, in the eyes of some, I may resemble that remark. However, I can tell you that this exercise model is ideal for anyone at any age and for every ability level. They have a number of wonderful resources, including free videos on Youtube and in-person classes. These programs are thoughtfully designed and are especially beneficial for any number of folks who:
are just getting back into fitness
need something to fill in the days between the iron-man-type workouts
are nursing soreness or an injury
are recovering from a setback (e.g. illness or surgery)
have a sedentary lifestyle (due to a condition, office job, or travel)
have special needs or limitations
are looking for reliable, informed, complete, convenient everyday workouts that will keep you fit without tearing you down
And yes, it is geared toward life's seasoned veterans - but don't let that fool you. Well trained instructors take into consideration a variety of scenarios and offer alternative moves while encouraging each person to listen to their body, set realistic goals, and challenge their bodies and minds. For all you "youngin's" out there...don't knock it till you try it - you'll be pleasantly surprised at how energized you feel after exercising with them!
AUTISM
If you know anyone who has autism that has been deemed cognitively impaired, there IS hope.
International Association for Spelling as Communication - Spelling to Communicate (S2C) teaches individuals with motor challenges the skills necessary to point to letters on a letter board (and eventually a computer!) to spell as an alternative means of communication. This is changing lives! It's changing families! It's revealing the brilliance behind cognitively whole autists who were wrongly and unjustly deemed impaired.
Spellers Documentary - true story of 8 non-speaking autistic individuals who have learned to spell to communicate. Wait until you hear what they have to say…it will blow.your.mind! (The screening is available until June 6, 2023)
Videos to inspire your journey - Gregory Tino and Elizabeth Bonker and Autism Society Town Hall
MUSIC & INSTRUMENTS
I highly recommend no one listens to or plays digitized music - ever. Only real instruments, not synthesized, and with the least amount of technology applied during the digital mastering process (often used to unnaturally "bend" or "shape" tones). Live, acoustic music is the best but if that is not possible and you are listening through a device, non-bluetooth (old school) headphones will deliver the optimal experience.
I also urge the exploration of healing frequencies in lieu of the standard tuning of 440 Hz.There are a number of articles, books, and videos (like this one and this one and this one and this one and this one and this one) out there that will help you to appreciate the importance. This one by Pasha 808 nicely summarizes the reasons you should consider the switch (in addition to finding some cool tunes).
When researching this subject on your own, you might notice a lot of the initial search results will come back dismissing the benefits and some even going so far as to call it a conspiracy theory. Ask yourself a few questions such as why would anyone care? Why are all of the top results in your search working so hard to denounce 432 Hz (and other frequencies known for healing)? What’s the big deal? If the differences are subtle and you can tune your instruments in a way that is most pleasing to you, then why such an effort to discount your preferences and change your mind? Go with how you feel, not what someone tells you.
Below are some recordings I have personally found enjoyable. If you can, take moments to hum along, matching pitches in whatever music you are listening to, this will enhance the healing effects. Take care to confirm, when you are able, that the music you are hearing is indeed NOT in 440 Hz. There are people that post music that either don't understand differences in frequencies, are dishonest about the tuning, change the tuning after a while (so, the music was originally in a preferred frequency but between visits it was altered), or it includes other near imperceptible tones, any of which can have deleterious effects. This brief video along with this one may be helpful in understanding how to detect basic differences in frequencies. Purchasing a frequency analyzer is a helpful tool if you don't play an instrument that you would use for the sake of comparison.
Enjoy and please let me know what you think!
Alex Dav - hang drum and kalimba music in 432 Hz
Aural Expressions Volume 2 432 Hz
Handpan Meditation Sound Bath 432 Hz · Szabadi Andrea
Harp Music by Jessie Liu 432 Hz
JuusoHD Relaxing Acoustic Guitar Music For Meditation, Studying, Sleep, Chill 432 Hz
Relaxing Ambient Guitar 432 Hz
Relaxing Saxophone Music 432 Hz
SK Murray - various healing frequencies sometimes referred to as “soaking worship music.” Also has a powerful witness to God’s Glory!
Sound of Golden Light, Simone Vitale - in addition to the piece I linked (which is music from plants!), this article is very insightful as it relates to the power of 432 Hz.
444 The Master Key - Harp, by Steve Rees
528 Hz Antique Himalayan Singing Bowl Sound Meditation
Classically trained cellist from Montana, Jesse Ahmann, offers a multitude of healing compositions in a variety of frequencies
Autoharp - put it this way, if I can play the autoharp (and I do), ANYONE can play it. If you know how to match, you'll know how to play. Why do I say this? Because the "buttons" on the instrument have the names of the chords stamped right on them so, you match the button chord with the chord noted on the music and poof! you're ready to strum and pick in perfect pitch till your hearts content!
Lovetuner - this handy little device gives you all the powerful benefits of 528 Hz at your fingertips. Highly portable, you can use it any time, and just about anywhere (it isn’t quiet - it emits a tone that sounds similar to a harmonica - so keep that in mind). No musical talent needed, just your breath. Makes a great stocking stuffer or unique gift for anyone looking to facilitate calm and usher in a parasympathetic state.
Kalimba or Mbira - Note each name has a separate hyperlink to explain the instrument and origin and this article helps to understand the differences between the two almost identical instruments. Check out this detailed yet easy to follow tuning explanation by Pasha. Whichever you decide to try, it seems to be an instrument that anyone at any age and any musical ability can easily play.
UPLIFTING
We can all use more opportunities for laughter and fun! It's a great way to raise our vibration and add levity to our day. Here are some delightful websites to visit that offer a dash of humor or a sprinkle of joy.
Building thoughtful yet useful content and putting it out in a timely manner is a bit of a balancing act!