Please Note: These articles are intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or any other regulated health care services in Ontario. The information provided here is not medical advice, nor does it create a doctor-patient or health care provider relationship. The use of this content, or any materials linked from it, is at the reader's discretion and risk. This information is not a replacement for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Readers should not ignore or delay seeking medical care for any health concerns they may have and are encouraged to consult qualified health professionals for appropriate care and medical advice.

Hormone Health & Longevity: Why Hormones Matter for Both Women and Men
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

Hormone Health & Longevity: Why Hormones Matter for Both Women and Men

Hormones are powerful messengers that influence how we age - from metabolism and body composition to mood, energy, cognition, and cardiovascular health. For both women and men, maintaining hormonal balance is essential not just for feeling well today, but for preserving long-term vitality and healthspan. At LifespanMD, we take an evidence-based, preventive approach to hormone optimization. Our team integrates hormone therapy in Ottawa (HRT and TRT) with advanced diagnostics, metabolic testing, and fitness assessments - helping clients age stronger, think sharper, and live longer, better.

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Are You Eating Enough Protein? Probably Not.
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

Are You Eating Enough Protein? Probably Not.

If you’re like most Canadians, you may assume you are getting enough protein. After all, the average diet easily covers the government’s recommended intake of 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. But here’s the catch - that number was set to prevent outright deficiency, not to help you stay strong, independent, and healthy as you age. At LifespanMD, we look beyond “adequate.” The science is clear: most people benefit from almost double the recommended amount, especially as they get older or aim to improve their fitness and metabolic health.

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GLP-1 Medications and the Future of Healthy Aging: What We Know and What We Don’t
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

GLP-1 Medications and the Future of Healthy Aging: What We Know and What We Don’t

Incretin-based medications are changing how doctors treat diabetes and obesity, and they are also generating headlines about weight loss and even healthy aging. While these drugs offer clear benefits for blood sugar, weight control, and heart health (in diabetics), questions remain. In Canada, they are only approved for diabetes and obesity, not for anti-aging, but the science behind them is opening new conversations about what it means to grow older in better health.

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LifespanMD Guide to Wearables: Oura Ring, WHOOP, and Apple Watch
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

LifespanMD Guide to Wearables: Oura Ring, WHOOP, and Apple Watch

At LifespanMD, we see wearables as powerful companions in longevity care. These devices create daily awareness and provide accountability. The growing body of evidence shows that wearables can increase physical activity, improve recovery, enhance sleep hygiene, and support more consistent progress in the lifestyle factors most strongly tied to longer and healthier lives: aerobic fitness, daily movement, and cardiovascular health.

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Why VO₂ Max May Be the Most Important Number in Longevity Medicine
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

Why VO₂ Max May Be the Most Important Number in Longevity Medicine

VO₂ max measures the maximum amount of oxygen your body can utilize during peak exertion. Think of it as your cardiovascular engine capacity. The higher it is, the more efficiently your heart, lungs, and mitochondria deliver and use oxygen - and the more physiological stress your body can tolerate and recover from.

What makes this especially compelling is the growing body of research showing that VO₂ max is one of the strongest predictors of lifespan and healthspan we have.

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BPC‑157 in Ottawa: What You Need to Know
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

BPC‑157 in Ottawa: What You Need to Know

BPC-157 is gaining widespread attention in the regenerative medicine space for its potential healing and anti-inflammatory effects. Frequently promoted for soft tissue repair, tendon healing, gut health, and injury recovery, BPC-157 has become a trending topic among patients seeking advanced wellness solutions. At LifespanMD, one of the most common peptide questions we receive is whether BPC-157 is legal, safe, and effective in a clinical setting.

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Introducing Dr. Steve Radke: Elevating Your Health with Lifestyle & Longevity Medicine at LifespanMD
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

Introducing Dr. Steve Radke: Elevating Your Health with Lifestyle & Longevity Medicine at LifespanMD

We envision a future where proactive health, vitality, and longevity are within reach for all. That's precisely why we're so proud and excited to welcome Dr. Steve Radke to our team. Dr. Radke is a physician who not only deeply shares this transformative vision but also brings it vibrantly to life through her truly unique and comprehensive approach to patient care. Her dedication to fostering overall well-being, rather than just managing symptoms, perfectly aligns with our commitment to helping you unlock your healthiest, most vibrant self.

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Dementia Prevention: Evidence-Based Strategies to Protect Your Brain Health
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

Dementia Prevention: Evidence-Based Strategies to Protect Your Brain Health

At LifespanMD, we understand that brain health is critical for healthy aging. With dementia and Alzheimer’s disease rates on the rise, many of our clients ask, “How can I lower my risk of dementia?”

The good news is that up to 45% of dementia cases may be preventable through targeted lifestyle changes and medical interventions.¹ In this article, we explore the most effective, evidence-based strategies to prevent dementia, support cognitive function, and promote long-term mental clarity.

Whether you're concerned about memory loss, cognitive decline, or Alzheimer’s prevention, the strategies below offer a proactive path toward protecting your brain health.

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What to Look for in a Sunscreen: A LifespanMD Guide
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

What to Look for in a Sunscreen: A LifespanMD Guide

As we step into May, recognized globally as Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, it is an ideal moment to reflect on one of the simplest yet most powerful tools for protecting your long-term skin health: daily sunscreen use. At LifespanMD, we view prevention as a foundational element of living longer and healthier lives. When it comes to defending your skin, sunscreen is not just optional - it is essential. With so many options on the market, choosing the right one matters. Here is what you should look for to ensure you are getting meaningful protection.

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The Gut Microbiome’s Influence on Metabolism and Weight Management
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

The Gut Microbiome’s Influence on Metabolism and Weight Management

The gut microbiome plays a critical role in regulating metabolism, weight management, and overall health. Emerging research continues to reveal how gut bacteria influence fat storage, insulin sensitivity, and inflammation - key drivers of metabolic health. Read our recent article to learn more!

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VO₂ Max: A Key Predictor of Longevity and Healthspan
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

VO₂ Max: A Key Predictor of Longevity and Healthspan

VO₂ max, or maximal oxygen uptake, is the maximum amount of oxygen your body can utilize during exercise. A higher VO₂ max indicates greater efficiency in oxygen transport and utilization, which directly correlates with better health outcomes and enhanced longevity.

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Metformin and Longevity: Evaluating the Evidence
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

Metformin and Longevity: Evaluating the Evidence

Humans have pursued lifespan extension for centuries, but modern research has formalized this quest. Since the early 20th century, scientists have identified potential longevity molecules, with metformin—best known for treating type 2 diabetes—standing out as a widely debated candidate. Initial animal studies and observational human data sparked excitement about metformin’s anti-aging potential, but conflicting evidence has since tempered enthusiasm. A recent 2024 study in monkeys, however, has reignited interest.

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Bone Health: Everything You Need to Know
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

Bone Health: Everything You Need to Know

Maintaining strong bones is vital for mobility, longevity, and overall healthspan. This article explores osteoporosis, risk factors for low bone mineral density (BMD), and effective strategies to maintain bone strength as we age.

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The Power of Sleep: How Quality Sleep Protects Your Health and Longevity
Sam Hetz Sam Hetz

The Power of Sleep: How Quality Sleep Protects Your Health and Longevity

Sleep is a cornerstone of human health and wellness - just like proper nutrition and regular exercise. Yet, in our busy modern world, it’s often taken for granted or pushed aside. Chronic sleep deprivation can have serious long-term effects, ranging from reduced cognitive function to increased risk of serious health conditions.

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