The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show

In this groundbreaking episode, Dr. Gabrielle Lyon sits down with Dr. Tobias Kohler, a professor of urology at the Mayo Clinic, to discuss a topic most people are afraid to talk about: men's sexual health.

Dr. Kohler shares eye-opening insights, backed by over two decades of clinical experience and research, on the powerful link between foundational health habits and male sexual function. They reveal why erectile dysfunction is a critical "check engine light" for heart disease and how building muscle and exercising can improve not just your erections, but your overall longevity.

This conversation goes beyond simple fixes, providing actionable, science-based information that every man needs to hear.

This episode is brought to you by:

• Puori - Get 20% off sitewide with code DRLYON  → https://puori.com/DRLYON
• Cozy Earth - Use code DRLYON for up to 40% off - https://cozyearth.com
• BONCHARGE - Use code DRLYON for 15% off your entire order - https://boncharge.com/DRLYON
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Chapters

0:00 - Link between muscle mass & erections

0:52 - Erectile function

1:13 - The truth about penis size & penile implants

2:32 - The foundational pillars of men's health

8:48 - Erectile dysfunction is an early sign of heart disease

16:14 - The role of anxiety, alcohol & cannabis on ED

24:29 - The "use-it-or-lose-it" organ

29:31 - The truth about PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra & Cialis)

46:46 - The "C"s of urinary frequency

54:43 - The connection between muscle, testosterone & sexual function

1:02:07 - Is there a point of no return for penile health?

Erections: A “Check Engine Light” for Your Health

One of the most striking points from the discussion was Dr. Kohler’s perspective on erectile dysfunction (ED). He described it not just as a sexual problem, but as one of the earliest "check engine lights" for heart disease. The blood vessels leading to the penis are much smaller than those in the heart. As we age, plaque can build up in these vessels. This process, known as atherosclerosis, affects the smaller vessels first.

This means if you're experiencing persistent issues with erections, it's a strong indicator that you may have vascular problems that could soon affect your heart. As Dr. Kohler put it, "If the penis is failing, you should assume you're going to have problems with your heart soon until proven otherwise." The good news is that anything good for your heart—like exercise and a healthy diet—is also good for your penis.

The "Use-It-or-Lose-It" Organ

The conversation also tackled the surprising phenomenon of penile shortening. When the penis goes into a "garage" for an extended period—meaning there is a consistent lack of erections—it can lose length. Dr. Kohler shared that a consistent lack of erections for just three months can lead to a loss of 1-2 centimeters in length due to the formation of scar tissue. This is why he calls the penis a "use-it-or-lose-it" organ. The key to maintaining penile health is to exercise the penis through erections, and tools like a vacuum erection device can be used for penile rehabilitation.

Muscle Mass, Testosterone, and Sexual Function

For many men, this is where the conversation gets personal. Dr. Kohler highlighted the direct correlation between muscle mass and erectile quality. Studies show that men with more muscle mass have better erections and higher testosterone levels. The reverse is also...

Are you struggling to get a good night's rest?

Do you think you can thrive on just a few hours of sleep? In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Gabrielle Lyon sits down with renowned sleep scientist Dr. Rebecca Robbins to debunk the biggest sleep myths and reveal the profound connection between sleep and your health, longevity, and daily performance. They dive into the science of sleep, from the homeostatic sleep drive to the crucial role of your circadian rhythm. You’ll learn why sleep isn't just a passive state for your brain and discover the shocking truth about "social jet lag" and how hitting the snooze button is sabotaging your day.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why sleep is your ultimate longevity accelerator and its impact on cognitive health and Alzheimer's.
• The dangers of sleep deprivation and how it affects your blood pressure, emotional regulation, and appetite.
• Actionable, evidence-based tips for improving your sleep, including the best time for naps and the surprising truth about sleep medication.
• The fascinating inner workings of your brain during different sleep stages, including deep sleep and REM sleep.
• The connection between your environment, exercise, and sleep quality.
• The future of sleep science and the exciting role of technology in tracking and improving your rest.

The top 3 sleep myths you need to stop believing right now!

This conversation will change the way you think about sleep, empowering you to prioritize rest and unlock your full potential.

This episode is brought to you by:  

• LMNT - Free sample pack with any purchase at https://drinklmnt.com/DRLYON
• Timeline - Get 20% off your order at https://timeline.com/LYON
• MUD\WTR - Use code DRLYON to get up to 43% off your starter kit at https://mudwtr.com/DRLYON
• Needed - Use code DRLYON for 20% off your first order at https://thisisneeded.com

Chapter Markers:

0:00 - Introduction & The Ultimate Accelerator of Good Health

0:10 - Sleep is a Product of Two Processes

0:30 - The Sleep Medication vs. Behavioral Change Debate

1:18 - The Importance of Sleep

2:21 - The Best Productivity Hack

3:16 - The Evolution of Sleep Science

5:52 - How Much Sleep Do We Really Need?

8:54 - The Two Processes That Drive Sleep

12:38 - Circadian Rhythm & Social Jet Lag

15:01 - Can You Repay Sleep Debt?

18:54 - What Happens to Your Brain When You Sleep?

20:10 - The Gold Standard of Sleep Measurement

22:35 - REM Sleep: The "Software Update" for Your Brain

26:42 - How to Find Your Child's "Sweet Spot"

30:32 - Navigating Jet Lag & Travel

33:10 - A Deep Dive into Melatonin

38:03 - The Impact of Exercise on Sleep

43:31 - The Power of Naps

47:01 - Tips & Tricks to Improve Your Sleep

50:18 - How to Create a Bulletproof Routine

58:50 - The Impact of Regular Sleep on the Brain

1:03:00 - Sleep Medication: The Pros and Cons

1:04:30 - The Future of Sleep Science

1:08:58 - The Top 3 Sleep Myths Debunked

1:12:35 - The Final Takeaway 

Disclaimer: The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Podcast and YouTube are for general information purposes only and do not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast, YouTube, or...

Mysterious symptoms. Confusing diagnoses. Years of being dismissed.

In this episode, Michelle Shapiro joins me to unpack the often misunderstood and overlooked world of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), histamine intolerance, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), and hypermobility conditions.

Drawing from her own health journey and experience with thousands of clients, Michelle unpacks why conventional medicine often overlooks these complex, overlapping conditions—and how a root-cause, systems-based approach can lead to real healing. From nervous system regulation to low-histamine nutrition, this episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with unexplained chronic symptoms.

You’ll learn:

• What MCAS is and why so many people are misdiagnosed
• The link between MCAS, POTS, and connective tissue disorders
• How nervous system regulation impacts immune reactivity
• Which foods trigger histamine flares and how to build a low histamine diet
• The surprising connection between hormones and histamine
• Why building muscle is critical for recovery from MCAS, POTS, and hypermobility

Whether you’re a clinician or someone living with these symptoms, this conversation offers insight, hope, and a roadmap forward.

Who is Michelle Shapiro?

Michelle Shapiro, RD is a functional/ integrative Registered Dietitian who has helped over 3,000 clients transform their health over the past 11 years. As the founder of an NYC-based virtual private practice, Michelle leads a team of six expert nutritionists who specialize in complex cases including histamine issues, gut dysfunction, chronic anxiety, and weight concerns. She is the creator of the viral Histamine Essentials Webinar, which is available now on replay, and the host of the top-rated podcast Quiet the Diet, where she breaks down the science behind chronic illness in a way that actually makes sense and makes you feel seen. Michelle is the go-to expert for people who have tried everything and are ready for a real plan.

This episode is brought to you by:

• OneSkin - Get 15% off with the code DRLYON – https://www.oneskin.co
• Ned - Get 15% off with code DRLYON – https://helloned.com/DRLYON
• Beef.org – Your go-to resource – https://BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com
• LMNT - Get your free LMNT Sample Pack with any purchase – https://DrinkLMNT.com/DRLYON

Find Michelle Shapiro at:

• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/michelleshapirord
• Histamine Webinar Replay - https://michelleshapirord.com/histamine-webinar
• Apply to work with Michelle’s team: https://airtable.com/appzFCkAqbbL4J2Qu/pagw0ynsqYbBzMjes/form

Find Me At:

• Instagram:@drgabriellelyon
• TikTok: @drgabriellelyon
• Facebook: facebook.com/doctorgabriellelyon
• YouTube: youtube.com/@DrGabrielleLyon
• X (Twitter): x.com/drgabriellelyon
• Apply to become a patient – https://drgabriellelyon.com/new-patient-inquiry/
• Join my weekly newsletter – https://institute-for-muscle-centric-medicine.ck.page
• Get my book – https://drgabriellelyon.com/forever-strong/

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: Dismissed symptoms and hidden syndromes

01:43 – What is mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS)?

03:33 – Why histamine is the “loudest” chemical messenger

06:39 – MCAS symptoms: from flushing to anxiety

08:22 – Root causes: mold, toxins, and the “bucket” theory

11:15 – Diagnosing MCAS: blood, urine, and biopsy challenges

15:11 – Food patterns: how "healthy" foods trigger MCAS

16:53 – MCAS vs histamine intolerance: what’s the difference?

25:06 – High-histamine foods: what to avoid (and why)

27:37 – Nervous system & immune system: the feedback...

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women—yet it's still treated like a man’s disease. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Martha Gulati, a cardiologist and pioneer in women’s cardiovascular health, exposes the systemic gaps that leave women underdiagnosed, undertreated, and often unheard. Together, we unpack the critical differences in how heart disease presents in women, why standard diagnostic tools fall short, and what every woman needs to know about risk factors like pregnancy complications, hormone therapy, statin use, and even environmental exposures. Dr. Gulati also reveals the truth behind hormone therapy myths, explains how soft plaque really forms, and why fitness should be considered frontline prevention.

You’ll learn:

• Why women’s heart symptoms are often mistaken for anxiety
• What tests to ask for to asses your risk of heart disease
• How statins, hormone therapy, and fitness interact with risk
• What the new “Prevent" risk score includes—and why it matters
• Why women get more benefits from exercise than men
• How pollution, stress, and pregnancy complications shape long-term risk

Whether you’re in your 20s or postmenopausal, this episode will empower you to take charge of your heart health, ask better questions, and get the care you deserve.

Who is Dr. Martha Gulati?

Dr. Martha Gulati is a professor of cardiology at the Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai, where she serves as Director of Prevention and Associate Director of the Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Center. She is the immediate past president of the American Society for Preventive Cardiology and previously served as the inaugural Chief of Cardiology at the University of Arizona. A leading voice in women’s heart health, Dr. Gulati chaired the first national chest pain guidelines and is the author of the best-selling book Saving Women’s Hearts.

This episode is brought to you by:

• Manukora - Get $25 off the starter kit – https://manukora.com/DRLYON
• ARMRA – Code DRLYON for 15% off your first order – https://tryarmra.com/DRLYON
• Masa Chips - Code LYON for 25% off your first order – https://masachips.com/LYON  
• Our Place – Code DRLYON for 10% off sitewide – https://fromourplace.com/DRLYON

Find Dr. Martha Gulati At:

• Website - https://drmarthagulati.com/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martha-gulati-9b410496/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drmarthagulati/
• X/Twitter - https://x.com/drmarthagulati
• Cedars-Sinai - https://www.cedars-sinai.org/provider/martha-gulati-2036029.html
• Her book Saving Women's Hearts: https://www.amazon.ca/Saving-Womens-Hearts-Conventional-Strategies/dp/0470678453

Find Me At:

• Instagram:

Muscle health isn’t just about how much protein you eat—it’s about how your body uses it. And for people with obesity or advancing age, that process can become less effective, even with optimal nutrition.

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Nick Burd, one of the world’s leading researchers in muscle metabolism, to unpack the concept of anabolic resistance—when muscle doesn’t respond normally to protein and/or exercise. Together, we explore how aging, obesity and even the way foods are combined on your plate can impact muscle remodeling, recovery, and growth. Dr. Burd also shares why plant-based proteins often fall short, why protein efficiency matters more than quantity, and how endurance and resistance training affect nutrient use differently.

You’ll learn:

• What anabolic resistance is—and why it matters
• How to improve protein efficiency and muscle quality over time
• Why food matrix, and timing can change your results
• Key differences in nutrition strategies for endurance vs. strength athletes

Whether you're focused on longevity, performance, or helping someone break through a plateau, this episode delivers the research-backed information you’ve been looking for.

Who is Dr. Nick Burd?

Dr. Nick A. Burd is a muscle-metabolism scientist and professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he leads the Nutrition & Exercise Performance Research Group. Originally from the Midwest, he trained under renowned experts around the world before focusing his research on how protein and exercise influence muscle health across the lifespan. His work uses advanced tracer methods and muscle biopsies to explore optimal protein intake, plant vs. animal protein quality, and strategies to combat anabolic resistance.

This episode is brought to you by:

• LMNT - Get your free LMNT Sample Pack → https://drinklmnt.com/DRLYON
• Cozy Earth - Use code DRLYON for up to 40% off - https://cozyearth.com
• Timeline - Get 20% off your order of Mitopure - https://timeline.com/LYON
• OneSkin - Get 15% off with code DRLYON → https://oneskin.co

Find Dr. Nick Burd At:

• University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: https://ahs.illinois.edu/burd
• X (Twitter): https://x.com/Nicholas_Burd
• Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=BMvk_GMAAAAJ&hl=en
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-burd-5972b783/

Find Me At:

• Instagram:@drgabriellelyon  
• TikTok: @drgabriellelyon
• Facebook: facebook.com/doctorgabriellelyon
• YouTube: youtube.com/@DrGabrielleLyon
• X (Twitter):

Did you know every 40 seconds someone in the U.S. has a heart attack—and 1 in 5 never even see it coming? This week, I am joined by preventive cardiologist Dr. Michael Twyman as we discuss cutting-edge diagnostics, the endothelial glycocalyx, nitric oxide biology, and why muscle mass is your heart’s best friend. Learn the practical steps and questions to ask to protect your heart before symptoms appear.

Together, we explore:

• Why silent heart attacks are so prevalent
• The role of nitric oxide and the endothelial glycocalyx in vascular health
• The critical link between muscle mass, VO₂ max, and heart resilience
• How advanced imaging and testing are changing prevention
• Debunking common myths around cardiovascular risk
• Supplements and diagnostics Dr. Twyman uses to optimize cardiovascular health

This episode is a masterclass in heart disease prevention—don’t miss it.

Who is Dr. Michael Twyman

Dr. Twyman is a board-certified cardiologist specializing in early detection and prevention of cardiovascular disease. Founder of Apollo Cardiology in St. Louis, he’s recognized for integrating advanced arterial imaging, mitochondrial health strategies, and personalized medicine to optimize long-term heart health. Dr. Twyman’s mission is to educate his patients on how to live better and longer by optimizing their mitochondrial function to become heart attack proof.

This episode is brought to you by:

• Puori – Get 20% off sitewide with code DRLYON  → https://puori.com/DRLYON
• Ned – Get 15% off with code DRLYON → https://helloned.com/DRLYON
• LMNT – Get your free LMNT Sample Pack → https://drinklmnt.com/DRLYON
• Needed – Get 20% off your first order with code DRLYON  https://thisisneeded.com

Find Michael Twyman at:

• Website - https://drtwyman.com/
• Apollo Cardiology - https://drtwyman.com/apollocardiology/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtwyman/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drtwyman/
• X (Twitter) - https://x.com/michaeltwymanmd

Find Me At:

• Instagram:@drgabriellelyon  
• TikTok: @drgabriellelyon
• Facebook: facebook.com/doctorgabriellelyon
• YouTube: youtube.com/@DrGabrielleLyon
• X (Twitter): x.com/drgabriellelyon
• Apply to become a patient – https://drgabriellelyon.com/new-patient-inquiry/
• Join my weekly newsletter –

In this episode, I’m joined by journalist and author Michael Joseph Gross, whose book, Stronger: The Untold Story of Muscle in Our Lives, reveals the powerful and often overlooked role of muscle in human health and society—tracing its importance from ancient civilizations to modern science. We explore how our understanding of muscle has evolved through history, from symbols of strength and vitality in antiquity to current misconceptions in modern society. Michael shares insights from his extensive research, highlighting the incredible resilience of muscle tissue, debunking common myths about strength and aging, and providing compelling evidence for why everyone—no matter their age or background—should prioritize building and preserving muscle.

We cover:

• How muscle was viewed and valued from ancient cultures through modern times
• Why muscle mass is one of the strongest predictors of overall health and longevity
• How muscle acts as an endocrine organ influencing metabolism, immunity, and cognition
• The common misconceptions about strength training, especially in women and older adults
• How the science of muscle can change your approach to fitness and longevity
• The societal impact of muscle loss—and how we can turn it around

This conversation will leave you with a renewed appreciation for muscle—past, present, and future—and actionable insights to help you stay forever strong.

Who is Michael Joseph Gross?

Michael Joseph Gross is an accomplished journalist and author, widely recognized for his deeply researched, insightful explorations of human health and societal trends. His latest book, Stronger: The Untold Story of Muscle in Our Lives, delves into the transformative power of muscle from a biological, societal, and cultural perspective, offering groundbreaking insights into how muscle impacts our health, aging process, and overall quality of life.

This episode is brought to you by:

• MASA Chips – Get 25% off your first order → https://masachips.com/LYON
• OneSkin – Get 15% off with code DRLYON → https://oneskin.co
• MUD\WTR – Get up to 43% off with code DRLYON → https://mudwtr.com/DRLYON
• LMNT – Get your free LMNT Sample Pack → https://drinklmnt.com/DRLYON

Find Michael Joseph Gross at:

• Get the book:  https://www.michaeljosephgross.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-joseph-gross-2937a5/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaeljosephgross

Find Me At:

• Instagram:@drgabriellelyon  
• TikTok: @drgabriellelyon
• Facebook: facebook.com/doctorgabriellelyon
• YouTube: youtube.com/@DrGabrielleLyon
• X (Twitter):

In this episode, Dr. Alexis Wood, a leading researcher at Baylor College of Medicine, joins me to unpack insights into childhood nutrition, genetics, and cognitive health. Dr. Wood's work bridges genetics, dietary practices, and brain development, highlighting how early-life nutrition can shape lifelong outcomes. We explore cutting-edge research, practical strategies for parents, and the surprising factors influencing children's cognitive and metabolic health.

We cover:

• Why childhood nutrition and genetics have been historically overlooked—and what it means for your family.
• ADHD and diet: Separating fact from fiction.
• Debunking popular diet myths: What the research actually says about red meat and processed foods.
• Cognitive self-regulation: The hidden link between diet, obesity, and ADHD.
• Precision nutrition & metabolomics: The future is more than one-size-fits-all advice.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or health professional, this conversation offers guidance on navigating the complex relationship between nutrition, genetics, and childhood development.

Who is Dr. Alexis Wood?

Dr. Alexis Wood, Ph.D., F.A.H.A., is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics–Nutrition at Baylor College of Medicine’s USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center. Her research integrates genetics, child development, and nutrition, focusing on how genetic factors influence responses to diet and behavior.

This episode is brought to you by:

• PaleoValley - Get 15% off at https://paleovalley.com/drlyon
• ARMRA – Use code DRLYON to get 15% off your first order at https://tryarmra.com/DRLYON
• Our Place - Use code DRLYON for 10% off sitewide – https://fromourplace.com/DRLYON
• Timeline - Get 20% off your order of Mitopure - https://timeline.com/LYON

Find Dr. Alexis Wood at:

• Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lekkiwood/
• Baylor College of Medicine - https://www.bcm.edu/people-search/alexis-wood-33281
• USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center - https://www.bcm.edu/research/research-centers/usda-ars-childrens-nutrition-research-center
• Alexis Wood Lab - https://www.bcm.edu/research/faculty-labs/alexis-lekki-wood-lab

Find Me At:

• Instagram:@drgabriellelyon  
• TikTok: @drgabriellelyon
• Facebook: facebook.com/doctorgabriellelyon
• YouTube: youtube.com/@DrGabrielleLyon
• X (Twitter): x.com/drgabriellelyon
• Apply to become a patient –

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. David Klurfeld—longtime USDA scientist and one of the few insiders to publicly challenge the WHO's classification of red meat as a carcinogen. We go deep into the flawed evidence behind the infamous 2015 IARC report, why nutritional epidemiology often fails to prove causality, and how a small group of researchers helped shape global policy with low-quality science. If you've ever felt confused about meat, saturated fat, or dietary guidelines, this conversation will help you think critically about what “counts” as evidence—and who gets to decide.

We cover:

• Dr. Klurfeld’s personal journey and lessons from a career in public health
• Why the 2015 IARC red meat classification was based on weak and inconsistent evidence
• How observational studies and “allegiance bias” mislead nutrition science
• The politics of dietary guidelines and the role of the USDA and WHO
• What the media got wrong—and why red meat remains a nutrient-dense food

Whether you're a clinician, dietitian, or simply trying to make better nutrition decisions, this episode is a powerful reminder that bias, groupthink and weak data can distort science and mislead the public. We need to be discerning about the nutrition and health advice we follow.

Who is Dr. David Klurfeld?

Dr. David Klurfeld is a nutritional scientist and former National Program Leader for Human Nutrition at the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service. He also served as Professor and Chair of Nutrition and Food Science at Wayne State University and Associate Editor of The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. He has authored more than 200 scientific publications and was one of 22 experts invited to the 2015 IARC working group on red meat and cancer. He is a longtime advocate for scientific integrity in public health policy.

This episode is brought to you by:

• LMNT- Free Sample Pack with any purchase, visit https://DrinkLMNT.com/DRLYON
• Timeline - Get 20% off your order of Mitopure - https://timeline.com/LYON
• MUD\WTR - Use code DRLYON to get up to 43% off your starter kit - https://mudwtr.com/DRLYON
• Needed - Use code DRLYON for 20% off your first order - https://thisisneeded.com

Find Dr. David Klurfeld at:

• Indiana University Bloomington - https://publichealth.indiana.edu/about/directory/David-Klurfeld-dmklurfe.html
• Google Scholar - https://scholar.google.ca/citations?user=Ym5Og20AAAAJ&hl=en
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-klurfeld-812845209/

Find me at:

• Instagram:@drgabriellelyon  
• TikTok: @drgabriellelyon
• Facebook: facebook.com/doctorgabriellelyon
• YouTube: