Latest news with #SuziePemdejian
Los Angeles Times
24-05-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Biohack Your Memorial Day With These Smart Recovery Rituals
LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. Memorial Day used to mean indulgence: grill smoke, pool floats, and enough rosé to make Tuesday hurt. But now, a growing number of wellness-minded Americans are flipping the script. The long weekend isn't about zoning out, it's a chance to recharge with intention. Instead of hangovers, they're after better brain function. Instead of greasy brunches, they're experimenting with glymphatic drainage and gut-friendly snacks. It's part of a larger cultural shift: holidays aren't just time off, they're time to reset. That three-day weekend is prime for running your own personal experiment in recovery, sleep, and energy upgrades, basically, a DIY wellness retreat. Biohacking retreats are popping up around every major holiday now. Instead of lazy poolside lounging, the itineraries lean into cryotherapy, red light facials, and intermittent fasting schedules. And brands are clearly paying attention: companies like Bon Charge and Skin Gym have dropped Memorial Day promos to highlight their red light masks and infrared wraps. The trend has backup, too. A 2024 Sleep Health study found that just 15% of adults consistently get quality rest five nights a week. So a quiet, extended weekend free from daily chaos? That's a goldmine for nervous system recovery. Sleep debt remains a widespread issue, and new understandings of optimal sleep duration are helping people prioritize meaningful rest, especially when their calendar finally allows it. Neuroscientist Andrew Huberman calls sleep, light, and cold exposure the most powerful ways to hit reset. That combo (easy to access, grounded in science) has become a foundation for how many people structure their long weekend. Don't want to book a retreat? No problem. At-home biohacking is having a moment, and Memorial Day is a popular time to experiment. Cold plunges in the backyard. Face taping during Netflix marathons. NAD+ therapy, once niche, is becoming more mainstream, especially among those looking to improve focus and energy without overhauling their entire routine. Suzie Pemdejian, head nurse practitioner at AlphaMan Clinic, says most report noticeable improvements in mental clarity, focus, and sustainable energy levels within just a few sessions. Even food is getting a glow-up. Classic BBQs are swapping out coleslaw for fiber-packed greens and collagen-boosting drinks. Instead of beer, think nootropic-infused mocktails that promise energy without the crash. This isn't about being rigid or obsessive. It's about choosing how to spend your rest. Memorial Day can still mean beach chairs and baked beans, and that's fine. But for others, it's become a window to turn down inflammation, get better sleep, or finally try out that bathhouse. There's also a rise in overnight recovery products designed to do their work while you sleep, supporting skin, hair, and stress recovery without adding steps to your day. As the line between productivity and pleasure keeps blurring, this idea of the 'wellness weekend' feels more permanent than trendy. Click here to learn more about AlphaMan Clinic
Los Angeles Times
05-05-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Why More Men Are Turning to NAD+ Therapy to Hack Aging, Energy, and Mental Clarity
Walk into any upscale wellness clinic these days, and chances are you'll hear about NAD+ therapy. Once the domain of hardcore biohackers and niche longevity clinics, this IV drip has entered the wellness mainstream, becoming a top choice for men who want to sharpen their thinking, move with energy, and age with intention. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (better known as NAD+) is a coenzyme found in every living cell. It plays a critical role in converting nutrients into energy (ATP), repairing DNA, regulating metabolism, and supporting healthy brain function. As we age, NAD+ levels decline naturally, which contributes to fatigue, cognitive decline, inflammation, and other signs of aging. NAD+ therapy involves infusing this molecule directly into the bloodstream, bypassing digestion for maximum cellular absorption. What was once brushed off as a Silicon Valley obsession is now catching on with a broader wave of health-conscious men. At AlphaMan Clinic, a men's health center specializing in hormone optimization, NAD+ therapy is one of the most requested treatments. 'We're seeing a major uptick in men seeking NAD+ therapy, and it's not just hype,' says Suzie Pemdejian, head nurse practitioner at AlphaMan Clinic.'At AlphaMan Clinic, we've observed real, consistent outcomes across the board. Most men report noticeable improvements in mental clarity, focus, and sustainable energy levels within just a few sessions.' The appeal? Unlike energy drinks or stimulants, NAD+ taps into the body's own cellular processes. 'For many, it's not just about boosting stamina — it's about feeling sharper, more engaged, and more resilient in their daily lives,' Pemdejian explains. Forget the stereotype of the tech bro chasing immortality. Today's NAD+ clients include burned-out executives, dads juggling work and family, and fitness-focused men who want to extend their prime. According to Pemdejian, some of the most powerful feedback comes from men struggling with burnout or chronic fatigue. 'They often describe it as 'coming out of a fog', feeling more alert, more patient, and better equipped to handle stress.' There's also a libido and mood component. 'We often see improvements in both areas, especially when NAD+ is combined with hormone optimization or TRT,' Pemdejian notes. NAD+'s benefits are grounded in cellular biology, though it's worth noting that the science is still evolving. Studies show that boosting NAD+ levels supports mitochondrial health, reduces oxidative stress, and may even enhance cognitive function and metabolic efficiency. Pemdejian emphasizes that this isn't just pseudoscience. 'The science behind NAD+ is still evolving, but it's grounded in solid cellular biology. NAD+ is critical for mitochondrial function, energy production (ATP), DNA repair, and reducing oxidative stress. As we age, NAD+ levels decline, which can accelerate fatigue, brain fog, and signs of aging.'She adds, 'Replenishing those levels is one of the most promising ways to support long-term health from the inside out. It's not magic, but it's certainly not smoke and mirrors either.' Still, experts caution that more large-scale studies are needed to fully understand its long-term effects, especially when administered via IV therapy. A single NAD+ IV session can run anywhere from $300 to $800, depending on the dose and provider. Some clinics offer package deals, but it's still a significant investment. For some men, the results justify the cost if it means reversing burnout or regaining mental clarity. While IV therapy remains a luxury purchase for many, it's also becoming part of a broader shift in how people (especially men) are investing in their health. What used to be reserved for celebrities and professional athletes is now available in boutique wellness spaces across major cities. The draw? Fast, customizable relief from fatigue, stress, or dehydration, often delivered in sleek lounges outfitted with leather recliners and mood lighting. The convenience is a major selling point. In some clinics, NAD+ is offered as part of a larger recovery menu (think vitamin cocktails for jet lag, B12 boosters, and hangover cures) tailored to meet the demands of a constantly 'on' lifestyle. Many of the men who try NAD+ aren't just chasing youth; they're looking for a way to stay competitive, stay clear-headed, and feel like themselves again. For those not ready to commit to regular IV sessions, oral precursors like NMN or NR supplements offer a more affordable entry point, though their bioavailability is often debated. As the longevity movement gains steam, men are rethinking what it means to age well. 'At AlphaMan Clinic, we take a whole-systems approach to men's vitality,' says Pemdejian. 'Hormonal balance is just one part of it — cellular health, stress resilience, and mental sharpness are equally important. That's where NAD+ fits in.' Pemdejian sees NAD+ as a smart companion to other longevity treatments. 'NAD+ supports mitochondrial health, metabolic efficiency, and neurological performance, making it the perfect companion to testosterone therapy or other regenerative treatments.' 'We often recommend NAD+ as an add-on for men looking to break through plateaus, whether it's lingering fatigue, mental fog, or slow recovery from stress,' she adds. 'It's especially popular with high-performing professionals and entrepreneurs who want to stay sharp, focused, and resilient.' NAD+ therapy reflects a broader evolution in how men are approaching long-term health, less reactive, more proactive. 'Longevity isn't just a trend, it's a lifestyle,' says Pemdejian. 'And NAD+ helps turn that into something actionable, sustainable, and rooted in real science. Preventative care is the future, and NAD+ therapy helps our patients stay ahead of it.' Whether the goal is faster recovery, mental sharpness, or lasting energy, NAD+ is emerging as a compelling option for men navigating the pressures of modern life. It's not a cure-all, but for many, it offers a tangible way to feel more present, resilient, and in control of their health. Click here to learn more about AlphaMan Clinic
Los Angeles Times
02-05-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Low T, High Stakes: What Every Man Needs to Know About Testosterone Therapy in 2025
In 2025, clinics like AlphaMan, a men's health center specializing in hormone optimization, are rethinking how testosterone therapy fits into modern masculinity. Because when it comes to low testosterone, the stakes extend far beyond the gym. Even high-performing men balancing careers, families, and fitness can find themselves battling unexplained fatigue, diminished focus, low libido, and persistent sluggishness despite adequate rest. Welcome to the quiet crisis no one told you about: Low testosterone. Once dismissed as a rare condition affecting older men, low T (testosterone deficiency) is now understood as a far more widespread issue. Thanks to a mix of modern stress, environmental exposures, and plain old aging, more men are hitting their 40s and 50s feeling like shadows of themselves — and many don't even know why. Enter Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT). Equal parts buzzword and controversy, it's one of the most Googled men's health treatments of the last five years. But is it right for you? Is it safe? Or is it just hype with a syringe? Testosterone isn't just about muscles and sex drive. It's a major player in everything from mood to memory to motivation. It supports bone density, fat distribution, red blood cell production, and sperm development. And when your levels are low? You feel it. 'Testosterone levels in men have been steadily declining over the past few decades,' says Suzie Pemdejian, head nurse practitioner at AlphaMan Clinic, a Los Angeles-based practice specializing in hormone health. 'The average man today has significantly lower levels than men in the 1980s, even when adjusted for age.' And The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism has confirmed a marked decline in testosterone across American men over the past 20 years, so if you're feeling fatigued, unfocused, irritable, or like your sex drive has flatlined, you're not crazy. You might just have low T. Low testosterone, or male hypogonadism, doesn't always announce itself with flashing neon lights. It can show up subtly — and men often write it off as 'just getting older.' According to the Cleveland Clinic, common symptoms include: If these sound familiar, it might be time to look under the hood. One of the biggest misconceptions about TRT is that it's something you just hop on when you feel tired. That's not how any responsible clinic operates. 'We start with bloodwork,' says Dr. Allen Lawrence, who brings over 35 years of hormone therapy experience to AlphaMan Clinic. 'We run a full hormone panel and go deep into symptoms, lifestyle, and history. Low T isn't diagnosed from symptoms alone, and it's not just about hitting a number.' Generally, total testosterone levels below 300 ng/dL (nanograms per deciliter) may indicate low T, but it's nuanced. Free testosterone (the active form) also matters, as does the patient's overall health picture. Let's set the record straight. Testosterone Replacement Therapy is not: TRT is: 'TRT isn't a performance enhancer,' says Pemdejian. 'It's about bringing levels back to where they should be. When done right, it helps men regain energy, mental clarity, and emotional stability, all without the side effects people fear.' The stigma around testosterone therapy runs deep. Ask most men what they think TRT does, and you'll get a mix of 'makes you angry' or 'it's just for bodybuilders.' 'One of the biggest myths is that TRT makes men aggressive or turns them into someone they're not,' Pemdejian says. 'That's simply not true when it's prescribed and monitored correctly.' What about fertility? Yes, TRT has been said to lower sperm count, especially if taken without precautions. That is one reason why some men are prescribed hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) alongside TRT to maintain testicular function and fertility potential. And if you're worried it's not 'natural' to take hormones? Think about this: 'If your thyroid was underproducing, you'd take thyroid hormone. Testosterone is no different,' Lawrence says. There's a right way to do TRT, and then there's the internet clinic way. (Spoiler: don't do that.) Responsible providers follow safety protocols, like: Harvard Health emphasizes that TRT should be tailored to the individual and revisited frequently to minimize risks and optimize outcomes. Here's the deal: TRT can help, but it's not a license to live off cheeseburgers and whiskey. Obesity, lack of sleep, stress, and poor nutrition can all tank testosterone levels. Regular exercise, weight loss, clean eating, and managing sleep hygiene can go a long way in restoring natural production or enhancing the benefits of TRT if you're on it. 'We never just give you testosterone and send you on your way,' Pemdejian explains. 'We look at the whole picture. Because real wellness isn't just hormonal.' One under-discussed aspect of low testosterone? Its effect on mental health. Studies suggest that low T is associated with increased rates of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline in aging men. 'When you don't feel like yourself, it affects everything—your work, your marriage, your confidence,' Lawrence notes. 'We've seen men come in feeling hopeless, and after a few months of proper care, they're totally renewed.' The science backs that up. A 2020 meta-analysis found that TRT significantly improved depressive symptoms in men with low testosterone. Still think testosterone therapy turns guys into roid-raging gym rats? You're not alone. One of the most persistent myths around TRT is that it makes men overly aggressive or 'unnatural.' The reality? When done right, it's the opposite. 'TRT isn't about turning you into a bodybuilder,' Pemdejian adds. 'It's about bringing your hormones back into a healthy, balanced range—so you can feel like yourself again.' Here's the truth: Testosterone levels in men have been steadily dropping for decades, and not just with age. One peer-reviewed study found that average T levels in men today are substantially lower than in the 1980s, even after accounting for aging and other health factors. Translation? More men are feeling drained, foggy, and disconnected, and they don't always know why. But here's the catch: not every guy with low energy or a sluggish sex drive needs testosterone therapy. That's why a legit clinic won't just hand you a vial and a syringe. At AlphaMan, it starts with comprehensive bloodwork, a detailed symptom profile, and a full lifestyle and medical history review. 'Low testosterone isn't diagnosed from symptoms alone, and it's not about chasing a magic number,' says Pemdejian. 'We're looking for patterns. We connect lab data to what you're actually experiencing day to day.' Here's your modern man's checklist: If that sounds like you, it might be time to start a conversation with a hormone specialist, not a fitness influencer.'You don't have to just accept decline as inevitable,' Pemdejian says. 'Men deserve to feel strong, clear-headed, and connected to themselves again.' Testosterone therapy isn't about vanity. It's not about cheating aging, or becoming the next action movie hero. It's about getting back to the man you know you are. The bottom line? TRT, when done responsibly, can be a game-changer. Not a quick fix, but a cornerstone in a broader strategy for staying vital, focused, and resilient well into your 50s, 60s, and beyond. Click here for more information on Alphaman Clinic
