131. Dr. Elizabeth Yurth: The Science of Ketones, Hormones, and Faster Recovery

Most people assume joint pain, fatigue, and limited mobility are inevitable with age. But what if protecting your joints, optimizing recovery, and maintaining energy were about targeting the right systems early, rather than treating symptoms later?

In this episode of Extend, we sit down with Dr. Elizabeth Yurth, co-founder and chief medical officer of the Boulder Longevity Institute and a Stanford-trained sports and spine physician. With over 30 years of experience merging orthopedic expertise with longevity science, Dr. Yurth brings a unique perspective on preventing joint degeneration, accelerating healing, and supporting long-term metabolic and musculoskeletal health.

We talk about why most arthritis isn't caused by overuse, how the MEAT protocol replaces traditional approaches to injury, and why peptides, ketones, and regenerative therapies can dramatically improve recovery and joint function. We also explore strategies to protect joints before pain begins, maintain mobility over decades, and optimize overall energy and performance.

What We Discuss:

(00:00) Why Joint Pain, Fatigue, and Brain Fog Are Not Inevitable

(05:38) How Ketones Optimize Mitochondrial Function and Energy Production

(12:05) Hormone Balance for Joint, Bone, and Muscle Health

(19:42) Reducing Inflammation and Activating Stem Cells Naturally

(26:18) How Pentosan Polysulfate Can Regenerate Cartilage and Protect Joints

(33:50) Blood Flow Restriction, Red Light Therapy, and Recovery Tools

(40:27) Practical Strategies for Metabolic Flexibility and Long-Term Healing

(48:15) Common Mistakes in Hormone Replacement and Nutritional Optimization

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

Function Health: Learn more and join using my link. Visit www.functionhealth.com/drshah and use gift code DRSHAH25 for a $25 credit toward your membership.

Vitaboom: Vitaboom: For supplements you can trust and wellness solutions tailored to your health, visit https://vitaboom.com/

Learn more about Dr. Shah:

Website: https://www.drshah.com/

Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/

Instagram:@darshanshahmd

Learn more about Dr. Elizabeth Yurth::

Instagram: Dr. Elizabeth Yurth

@boulderlongevity

Linkedin: Elizabeth Yurth, MD, ABAARM, FAARM, FAARFM

Boulder Longevity Institute: https://boulderlongevity.com/

Human Optimization Academy: https://bli.academy/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@boulderlongevityinstitute