RHR: Beyond the Gut: The Microbiome’s Role in Sleep, Energy, and Longevity, with Dr. Zain Kassam

RHR: Beyond the Gut: The Microbiome’s Role in Sleep, Energy, and Longevity, with Dr. Zain Kassam

Author: Chris Kresser March 10, 2026 Duration: 44:48

In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris sits down with gastroenterologist and microbiome researcher Dr. Zain Kassam to explore the rapidly evolving science of the microbiome and its profound impact on sleep, circadian rhythm, cognitive performance, stress resilience, immune balance, and longevity. From groundbreaking research on microbiome diversity and sleep quality to emerging innovations like cobiotics, Dr. Kassam explains how our microbial partners regulate core biological systems far beyond the gut. They discuss the connection between the gut and the brain, eyes, skin, and even ears—along with practical strategies for supporting microbial health in a modern world that constantly disrupts it.

The post RHR: Beyond the Gut: The Microbiome’s Role in Sleep, Energy, and Longevity, with Dr. Zain Kassam appeared first on Chris Kresser.


Tired of health advice that feels one-size-fits-all or contradicts what you heard last week? Revolution Health Radio cuts through the noise with a different approach. Hosted by health detective Chris Kresser, this podcast digs into the often overlooked root causes of modern chronic conditions, moving beyond just treating symptoms. Each episode is a deep, evidence-informed conversation that challenges conventional wisdom on diet, fitness, and wellness. You’ll hear detailed explorations on topics like metabolic health, gut microbiome science, and sustainable fitness practices, all framed around actionable strategies for real life. Kresser translates complex research into practical steps, empowering you to make informed decisions about your own well-being. Rather than offering quick fixes, this podcast builds a foundational understanding of how the body works, aiming for lasting vitality. It’s for anyone who feels let down by mainstream narratives and is curious about the nuanced, sometimes alternative, paths to preventing illness and optimizing health. Tune in for thoughtful dialogues that equip you with the knowledge to take true ownership of your health journey.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 43

Revolution Health Radio
Podcast Episodes
RHR: Mouth Taping: Beyond the Hype—What the Science Really Says [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:27
In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser explores the viral trend of mouth taping and explains why the reality is more complex than the hype. While nasal breathing offers clear physiological advantages s…
RHR: Erythritol: The ‘Safe’ Sweetener That’s Anything But [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:16
Erythritol, a popular sweetener found in countless sugar-free and keto products, has long been considered a safe alternative to sugar. This episode of Revolution Health Radio examines emerging research that challenges th…
RHR: Preserving Cognitive Function As You Age, with Tommy Wood [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:08:26
In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser is joined by neuroscientist and physician Dr. Tommy Wood to explore how cognitive function can be preserved—and even enhanced—as we age. Dr. Wood challenges outda…
RHR: New Study Challenges the Plant-Based Longevity Myth [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:44
In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris breaks down a new large-scale study challenging the popular belief that plant-based diets promote longevity. The findings reveal that vegetarians—especially vegans—were s…
RHR: Vitamin D: Why a Personalized Approach Is Best [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:30
In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser explains why vitamin D supplementation should never be one-size-fits-all. Drawing on new research—including a groundbreaking study on magnesium’s regulatory role—…
RHR: Cold Exposure: Why Sustained Beats Extreme [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:10
Cold plunges and ice baths dominate social media, but do they really deliver the best metabolic benefits? In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris Kresser challenges the “colder is better” narrative and explores…
RHR: Why Your Sleep Schedule Matters As Much As Duration [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:10
In this episode of Revolution Health Radio, Chris challenges the conventional focus on sleep duration and makes the case that sleep timing and circadian alignment matter just as much—if not more—than total hours slept. D…