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Found My Fitness - Rhonda Patrick: Read the notes at at podcastnotes.org. Don't forget to subscribe for free to our newsletter, the top 10 ideas of the week, every Monday --------- Get access to 130 episodes of my premium podcast, The Aliquot, as a FoundMyFitness Premium Member Insulin resistance silently shapes the trajectory of nearly every major chronic disease, yet it's often overlooked until blood sugar abnormalities become obvious. In this episode, Dr. Ben Bikman exposes the dietary culprits that drive metabolic dysfunction and highlights actionable, evidence-based tactics for improving metabolic health. Ben also addresses pressing questions about popular weight loss medications like Ozempic and other GLP-1 agonists: Are they groundbreaking solutions, or shortcuts with hidden metabolic consequences? Timestamps: (0:00) Introduction (4:51) Can you be insulin resistant with normal glucose levels? (8:30) Can glucose monitors detect hidden insulin resistance? (10:01) What your skin reveals about insulin resistance (11:25) Why is insulin resistance behind so many chronic diseases? (15:46) Does obesity cause insulin resistance—or vice versa? (22:38) Insulin's surprising roles beyond blood sugar control (23:36) What's driving weight gain—insulin or calories? (30:30) Do saturated fats cause insulin resistance? (37:02) Why refined carbs amplify risks from saturated fat (40:04) Fructose vs. refined sugar—which spikes insulin more? (41:01) High-carb vs. keto—which diet controls hunger better? (45:27) Why low-carb diets might provide a metabolic advantage (47:36) Does exercise give you metabolic ‘wiggle room'? (52:00) Why strength training beats cardio for insulin sensitivity (54:03) Should you lower insulin before cutting calories? (57:12) Does meal frequency drive insulin resistance? (1:00:32) Is nighttime snacking giving you insomnia? (1:02:24) Can a sugary breakfast lead to overeating later? (1:07:19) Does late-night eating disrupt sleep more than blue light? (1:08:59) Can one bad night's sleep trigger insulin resistance? (1:12:23) Can air pollution cause weight gain? (1:16:15) Vaping vs. smoking—which is worse for metabolic health? (1:17:40) Can statins and antidepressants trigger weight gain? (1:20:22) How to reverse insulin resistance in 90 days (1:26:59) Does apple cider vinegar really lower blood sugar? (1:30:54) Ketone supplements—are the metabolic benefits real? (1:36:34) Why some ethnicities get diabetes without obesity (1:44:28) How oversized fat cells trigger metabolic chaos (1:49:28) Do seed oils silently promote insulin resistance? (1:52:44) Seed oils—always harmful or only when heated? (1:58:35) Fat, muscle, or liver—where does insulin resistance start? (2:04:21) Do fat cells shrink or disappear with weight loss? (2:07:05) Are shrunken fat cells still insulin resistant? (2:08:15) Can exercise and cold therapy specifically shrink visceral fat? (2:09:40) Injecting insulin for muscle—are the risks worth it? (2:12:45) Are drugs like Ozempic a shortcut or solution for obesity? (2:19:12) Are current GLP-1 agonist doses too high? (2:20:02) Microdosing GLP-1 drugs—a solution for carb cravings? (2:26:01) Do these medications cause muscle loss—or is it poor nutrition? (2:28:30) Do GLP-1 agonist benefits extend beyond weight loss? (2:30:41) Could these treatments actually promote longevity? (2:36:12) The dark side of GLP-1 drugs—can they trigger depression? (2:39:31) Insulin vs. glucose—what really drives accelerated aging? (2:44:34) How high glucose levels damage cells—from glycolysis to sorbitol (2:46:40) How insulin shuts down your body's stress defenses (2:51:15) Which biomarkers best predict biological aging? (2:55:05) One simple breakfast change to lower insulin (2:57:19) Does eating dinner early improve insulin sensitivity? Show notes, transcript, and summary are available by clicking here Watch this episode on YouTube
Found My Fitness - Rhonda Patrick Key Takeaways To some degree, insulin resistance is a common root cause for most chronic diseases A low-carb diet may offer a metabolic advantage by reducing insulin levels, which enhances metabolic flexibility and improves energy regulationFat tissue has a much higher metabolic rate when insulin levels are lowSince there is much more metabolic uncoupling, the body's engine revs up to burn energy just to create heat How to reverse a diabetes diagnosis in 90 days Control carbs – focus on whole fruits and vegetables, limiting sugary or starchy choices like bananas, pineapples, and mangoes Prioritize protein and do not fear fat – eat protein-rich foods regularly, and do not worry too much about naturally occurring fats Time meals and exercise – Eat more calories earlier in the day, avoid late-night eating, and take short walks after your biggest meals to reduce blood sugar spikesEating an evening snack spikes your blood sugar and ramps up the sympathetic nervous system, thus increasing body temperature and increasing the likelihood of insomnia and poor sleep; so do not eat within the 3-4 hours before bed Muscle is a great glucose consumer: The more muscle you have, the more metabolic wiggle room you have because muscle serves as a glucose sink Blood-sugar-lowering supplements that work:magnesium,alpha lipoic acid (ALA),berberine, andapple cider vinegar Eating too much linoleic acid (from seed oils) can lead to the production of a toxic substance (4H&E) that prevents your body from creating new small fat cells, and instead forces existing fat cells to just swell upConcerning GLP-1 dosing, caution is warranted; it is probably better to microdose these powerful drugs and think of them as short-term behavioral modification tools instead of lifelong prescriptions The top biomarkers to measure to determine metabolic health and aging:(1) fasting insulin; want below 6 µIU/mL), (2) Triglyceride-to-HDL ratio; want ratio under 1.5, and (3) Uric acid; want lower levels generallyLower your insulin by starting with tomorrow's breakfast: Either fast through breakfast and drink coffee, tea, or yerba mateOr if you do want to eat, then choose low-glycemic-load vegetables and berries, and consume more protein and fat Do whatever you can to keep your insulin in check for as long as possible throughout the day; the longer the insulin is low, the more you will improve your insulin sensitivity Read the full notes @ podcastnotes.org Get access to 130 episodes of my premium podcast, The Aliquot, as a FoundMyFitness Premium Member Insulin resistance silently shapes the trajectory of nearly every major chronic disease, yet it's often overlooked until blood sugar abnormalities become obvious. In this episode, Dr. Ben Bikman exposes the dietary culprits that drive metabolic dysfunction and highlights actionable, evidence-based tactics for improving metabolic health. Ben also addresses pressing questions about popular weight loss medications like Ozempic and other GLP-1 agonists: Are they groundbreaking solutions, or shortcuts with hidden metabolic consequences? Timestamps: (0:00) Introduction (4:51) Can you be insulin resistant with normal glucose levels? (8:30) Can glucose monitors detect hidden insulin resistance? (10:01) What your skin reveals about insulin resistance (11:25) Why is insulin resistance behind so many chronic diseases? (15:46) Does obesity cause insulin resistance—or vice versa? (22:38) Insulin's surprising roles beyond blood sugar control (23:36) What's driving weight gain—insulin or calories? (30:30) Do saturated fats cause insulin resistance? (37:02) Why refined carbs amplify risks from saturated fat (40:04) Fructose vs. refined sugar—which spikes insulin more? (41:01) High-carb vs. keto—which diet controls hunger better? (45:27) Why low-carb diets might provide a metabolic advantage (47:36) Does exercise give you metabolic ‘wiggle room'? (52:00) Why strength training beats cardio for insulin sensitivity (54:03) Should you lower insulin before cutting calories? (57:12) Does meal frequency drive insulin resistance? (1:00:32) Is nighttime snacking giving you insomnia? (1:02:24) Can a sugary breakfast lead to overeating later? (1:07:19) Does late-night eating disrupt sleep more than blue light? (1:08:59) Can one bad night's sleep trigger insulin resistance? (1:12:23) Can air pollution cause weight gain? (1:16:15) Vaping vs. smoking—which is worse for metabolic health? (1:17:40) Can statins and antidepressants trigger weight gain? (1:20:22) How to reverse insulin resistance in 90 days (1:26:59) Does apple cider vinegar really lower blood sugar? (1:30:54) Ketone supplements—are the metabolic benefits real? (1:36:34) Why some ethnicities get diabetes without obesity (1:44:28) How oversized fat cells trigger metabolic chaos (1:49:28) Do seed oils silently promote insulin resistance? (1:52:44) Seed oils—always harmful or only when heated? (1:58:35) Fat, muscle, or liver—where does insulin resistance start? (2:04:21) Do fat cells shrink or disappear with weight loss? (2:07:05) Are shrunken fat cells still insulin resistant? (2:08:15) Can exercise and cold therapy specifically shrink visceral fat? (2:09:40) Injecting insulin for muscle—are the risks worth it? (2:12:45) Are drugs like Ozempic a shortcut or solution for obesity? (2:19:12) Are current GLP-1 agonist doses too high? (2:20:02) Microdosing GLP-1 drugs—a solution for carb cravings? (2:26:01) Do these medications cause muscle loss—or is it poor nutrition? (2:28:30) Do GLP-1 agonist benefits extend beyond weight loss? (2:30:41) Could these treatments actually promote longevity? (2:36:12) The dark side of GLP-1 drugs—can they trigger depression? (2:39:31) Insulin vs. glucose—what really drives accelerated aging? (2:44:34) How high glucose levels damage cells—from glycolysis to sorbitol (2:46:40) How insulin shuts down your body's stress defenses (2:51:15) Which biomarkers best predict biological aging? (2:55:05) One simple breakfast change to lower insulin (2:57:19) Does eating dinner early improve insulin sensitivity? Show notes, transcript, and summary are available by clicking here Watch this episode on YouTube
What if We're Using GLP-1 Medications All Wrong?Drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are transforming the landscape of medical weight loss, but could their side effects be a sign that we're not harnessing their full therapeutic potential?In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Ben Bikman, metabolic health researcher and professor at BYU, joins Dr. Bret Scher to explore a powerful new framework: using GLP-1 medications at low doses and for short durations to help curb carbohydrate cravings, break addictive eating cycles, and support long-term metabolic health.Rather than prescribing high doses indefinitely, Dr. Bikman proposes a more targeted approach:Microdosing GLP-1s to enhance satiety and reduce cravings for processed carbsUsing the medication as a temporary metabolic tool to support transitions to lower-carb dietsReducing long-term risks such as muscle loss, mood changes, and diminishing effectivenessEmphasizing the importance of habit change, insulin regulation, and muscle preservationThis conversation reimagines GLP-1s not as a lifelong solution, but as a catalyst for sustainable, low-insulin lifestyles, aligned with ketogenic and metabolic therapies.
Get access to 130 episodes of my premium podcast, The Aliquot, as a FoundMyFitness Premium Member Insulin resistance silently shapes the trajectory of nearly every major chronic disease, yet it's often overlooked until blood sugar abnormalities become obvious. In this episode, Dr. Ben Bikman exposes the dietary culprits that drive metabolic dysfunction and highlights actionable, evidence-based tactics for improving metabolic health. Ben also addresses pressing questions about popular weight loss medications like Ozempic and other GLP-1 agonists: Are they groundbreaking solutions, or shortcuts with hidden metabolic consequences? Timestamps: (0:00) Introduction (4:51) Can you be insulin resistant with normal glucose levels? (8:30) Can glucose monitors detect hidden insulin resistance? (10:01) What your skin reveals about insulin resistance (11:25) Why is insulin resistance behind so many chronic diseases? (15:46) Does obesity cause insulin resistance—or vice versa? (22:38) Insulin's surprising roles beyond blood sugar control (23:36) What's driving weight gain—insulin or calories? (30:30) Do saturated fats cause insulin resistance? (37:02) Why refined carbs amplify risks from saturated fat (40:04) Fructose vs. refined sugar—which spikes insulin more? (41:01) High-carb vs. keto—which diet controls hunger better? (45:27) Why low-carb diets might provide a metabolic advantage (47:36) Does exercise give you metabolic ‘wiggle room'? (52:00) Why strength training beats cardio for insulin sensitivity (54:03) Should you lower insulin before cutting calories? (57:12) Does meal frequency drive insulin resistance? (1:00:32) Is nighttime snacking giving you insomnia? (1:02:24) Can a sugary breakfast lead to overeating later? (1:07:19) Does late-night eating disrupt sleep more than blue light? (1:08:59) Can one bad night's sleep trigger insulin resistance? (1:12:23) Can air pollution cause weight gain? (1:16:15) Vaping vs. smoking—which is worse for metabolic health? (1:17:40) Can statins and antidepressants trigger weight gain? (1:20:22) How to reverse insulin resistance in 90 days (1:26:59) Does apple cider vinegar really lower blood sugar? (1:30:54) Ketone supplements—are the metabolic benefits real? (1:36:34) Why some ethnicities get diabetes without obesity (1:44:28) How oversized fat cells trigger metabolic chaos (1:49:28) Do seed oils silently promote insulin resistance? (1:52:44) Seed oils—always harmful or only when heated? (1:58:35) Fat, muscle, or liver—where does insulin resistance start? (2:04:21) Do fat cells shrink or disappear with weight loss? (2:07:05) Are shrunken fat cells still insulin resistant? (2:08:15) Can exercise and cold therapy specifically shrink visceral fat? (2:09:40) Injecting insulin for muscle—are the risks worth it? (2:12:45) Are drugs like Ozempic a shortcut or solution for obesity? (2:19:12) Are current GLP-1 agonist doses too high? (2:20:02) Microdosing GLP-1 drugs—a solution for carb cravings? (2:26:01) Do these medications cause muscle loss—or is it poor nutrition? (2:28:30) Do GLP-1 agonist benefits extend beyond weight loss? (2:30:41) Could these treatments actually promote longevity? (2:36:12) The dark side of GLP-1 drugs—can they trigger depression? (2:39:31) Insulin vs. glucose—what really drives accelerated aging? (2:44:34) How high glucose levels damage cells—from glycolysis to sorbitol (2:46:40) How insulin shuts down your body's stress defenses (2:51:15) Which biomarkers best predict biological aging? (2:55:05) One simple breakfast change to lower insulin (2:57:19) Does eating dinner early improve insulin sensitivity? Show notes, transcript, and summary are available by clicking here Watch this episode on YouTube
Fat Loss & Metabolism with Dr. Ben Bikman Challenging the dogma surrounding heart disease. (1:32) Is there a connection between dementia and heart disease? (12:05) Strength training and Alzheimer's. (17:49) Learning something new helps put off dementia. (22:45) The connection between insulin resistance and your body's inability to fight off infection. (25:17) We put TOO much attention on total cholesterol. (27:55) Fat cells dynamics explained. (30:13) Why your metabolism is EXTREMELY complex. (44:14) Mitochondrial uncoupling. (48:51) Ketones and athletic performance. (55:39) The problem with DNP. (58:11) Why he is a HUGE advocate of creatine. (1:01:03) The brain loves ketones. (1:04:33) Keep your running shoes in the closet, GO STRENGTH TRAIN! (1:05:32) The metabolic origins of chronic disease. (1:08:10) How GLP-1s are being overused and the proper way to use them. (1:14:48) The resurgence of religion. (1:37:57) As a scientist, did he ever doubt his faith? (1:41:28) The most profound moment of his life. (1:45:51) Related Links/Products Mentioned Why We Get Sick: The Hidden Epidemic at the Root of Most Chronic Disease - and How to Fight It – Book by Dr. Benjamin Bikman How Not to Get Sick: A Cookbook and Guide to Prevent and Reverse Insulin Resistance, Lose Weight, and Fight Chronic Disease – Book by Dr. Benjamin Bikman Unlock sharper focus and support long-term brain health with Ketone-IQ—clean brain fuel for deep work, mental clarity, and sustained energy with no crash. Get 30% off your subscription, plus a free gift with your second shipment at https://ketone.com/MINDPUMP June Special: Shredded Summer Bundle or Bikini Bundle 50% off! ** Code JUNE50 at checkout ** Most heart attack patients' cholesterol levels did not indicate cardiac risk Study: Doubling Saturated Fat in the Diet Does Not Increase Saturated Fat in Blood Insulin signal transduction pathway Mind Pump #1922: Fatphobia & Other Lies That Are Keeping You Fat, Unhealthy & Sick Diabulimia: Why This Eating Disorder Is So Dangerous for People with Diabetes Harris-Benedict equation - Wikipedia Mitochondrial Uncoupling: A Key Controller of Biological Processes in Physiology and Diseases DNP (Dinitrophenol): Overview, Mechanism, and Risks Mind Pump #2497: The Amazing & Weird Side Effects of Creatine Muscle strength and fitness linked to reduction in cancer deaths Fighting Cancer By Putting Tumor Cells On A Diet - NPR Healthy Weight Loss Maintenance with Exercise, Liraglutide, or Both Combined Attenuated GLP-1 secretion in obesity: cause or consequence? Mind Pump #2597: Before You Take Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro Listen to This! Liraglutide modulates lipid metabolism via ZBTB20-LPL pathway Mind Pump #872: Dr. Warren Farrell- The Boy Crisis Mind Pump Podcast – YouTube Mind Pump Free Resources Featured Guest/People Mentioned Benjamin Bikman (@benbikmanphd) Instagram Website Zach Bitter (@zachbitter) Instagram Thomas N. Seyfried (@thomasseyfriedbc) Instagram Warren Farrell, PhD (@drwarrenfarrell) X/Twitter
Unlock the secrets to reversing insulin resistance - the hidden driver of many chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's.In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Benjamin Bikman, biomedical scientist and author of Why We Get Sick, reveals surprising truths about carbs, fats, protein, stress, and lack of sleep that can help you reclaim your metabolic health and resilience. Don't miss these game-changing strategies from a leading expert in the field.You can find Ben at: Website | Instagram | Episode TranscriptIf you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversations we had with Dr. Gabrielle Lyon about maintaining and building muscle through nutrition and exercise.Check out our offerings & partners: Join My New Writing Project: Awake at the WheelVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this Metabolic Classroom lecture, Dr. Bikman dives into the central metabolic role of lipoprotein lipase (LPL)—a largely unsung but crucial enzyme that governs whether fat is burned or stored and even where it accumulates in the body.LPL is anchored to capillary walls in tissues like fat, muscle, heart, and lactating mammary glands. It acts as a metabolic gatekeeper, hydrolyzing triglycerides from circulating lipoproteins (like chylomicrons and VLDL) into free fatty acids. Depending on the tissue, those fatty acids are either burned (e.g., in muscle) or stored (e.g., in fat cells). LPL activity is influenced by hormones, diet, age, exercise, and weight status, and it plays a role in both fat distribution and metabolic disease.LPL expression is highly tissue-specific and hormonally regulated. For instance, insulin increases LPL in fat tissue (promoting fat storage) and suppresses it in muscle (reducing fat burning), whereas testosterone suppresses LPL in subcutaneous fat, especially in the buttocks and hips—explaining fat patterning differences between sexes. In contrast, estrogen increases LPL in subcutaneous areas, which supports healthier fat distribution in women. Interestingly, low-carb diets and exercise reverse this pattern, increasing muscle LPL and decreasing fat LPL, thus shifting the body into a fat-burning mode.Ben also explains how weight loss impacts LPL expression. During weight loss, LPL activity in fat tissue tends to decline, but LPL gene expression can paradoxically increase, setting the stage for weight regain. He cites long-term studies showing that individuals with higher adipose LPL activity after dieting are more likely to regain fat. LPL in muscle tissue, however, increases after weight loss and exercise, supporting greater fatty acid oxidation. Thyroid hormone also influences LPL in both fat and muscle, revving up metabolism in hyperthyroid states and lowering LPL activity in hypothyroidism.Finally, Ben links LPL to real-world clinical questions, including its role in insulin resistance, statin effects, thyroid hormone therapy, and sex hormone treatments like TRT. He emphasizes that LPL doesn't just respond to metabolism—it helps define it, and that insulin is the dominant regulator of this enzyme.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references, we invite you to become an Insider subscriber. You'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A after the lecture with Ben, ad-free podcast episodes, show notes and references, online Office Hours access, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews.
Dr. Ben Bikman opens this lecture with a comprehensive overview of fluoride's history in public health, highlighting its original role in preventing dental cavities. However, he shifts the focus to its lesser-known systemic effects, particularly on metabolic health.Ben emphasizes emerging evidence that chronic exposure to fluoride—from water, toothpaste, and other products—can disrupt fat cell function and insulin sensitivity, both key pillars of metabolic regulation.Dr. Bikman explains how fluoride interferes with fat cell development by inhibiting PPARγ, a key regulator of adipogenesis. While this may initially seem beneficial (fewer fat cells), it actually leads to hypertrophic fat cells that are more insulin resistant and pro-inflammatory. Though human data is limited, epidemiological studies suggest a link between high fluoride exposure and abdominal obesity.Fluoride's impact extends to insulin resistance and pancreatic function. Rodent studies show impaired glucose tolerance and reduced insulin production following fluoride exposure. Mechanistically, this is due to oxidative stress damaging mitochondria in beta cells, impairing both insulin release and glucose uptake. Human studies—though sparse—have shown similar trends in high-fluoride areas with improvements upon fluoride reduction.Ben also explores fluoride's effects on mitochondrial function, liver health, brain development, and fertility. Mitochondrial damage in fat and liver cells impairs energy production and fat metabolism, potentially leading to fatty liver disease. In the brain, fluoride may lower IQ and disrupt thyroid function—especially harmful during development. In fertility, fluoride is linked to lower sperm count and hormone disruption in animal models. Dr. Bikman concludes by recommending avoiding fluoride in drinking water while acknowledging its limited role in dental care.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A after the lecture with Ben, ad-free podcast episodes, show notes and references, online Office Hours access, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more: https://www.benbikman.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this show we dive into the Ozempic and GLP1 diet craze with Dr Ben Bikman who has a Ph.D in bioenergetics, a masters in science and exercise physiology. He is currently exploring the contrasting roles of the hormone insulin and ketones as key drivers of metabolic function. We discuss obesity and diabetes, and how this GLP1 drug effects the body, why it's so effective for weight loss and the potential longterm harmful effects.
This week, Dr. Bikman dives deep into the metabolic role of cortisol, the body's primary glucocorticoid. He explains that while cortisol is essential for survival—mobilizing energy during fasting or stress—chronically elevated levels can wreak metabolic havoc.Cortisol is produced by the adrenal cortex under direction from the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Its main role is to ensure energy availability, stimulating glycogen breakdown, muscle catabolism, and fat breakdown in specific depots. However, long-term cortisol elevation, such as in Cushing's disease, leads to fat redistribution, muscle loss, insulin resistance, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes.Cortisol's metabolic effects are driven by its action on glucocorticoid receptors inside cells, activating genes like PEPCK and glucose-6-phosphatase that stimulate gluconeogenesis and increase blood sugar. It also indirectly causes insulin resistance by increasing ceramide accumulation, which interferes with insulin signaling in cells like muscle and fat. This, combined with glucose overproduction and muscle loss (the major glucose sink), creates a perfect metabolic storm: high blood sugar, high insulin, and reduced glucose uptake.The hormone also affects fat storage patterns. Cortisol enhances fat accumulation in visceral (abdominal) fat while stimulating fat loss in subcutaneous regions like the limbs. It increases fat uptake by upregulating lipoprotein lipase and blocks fat breakdown by suppressing hormone-sensitive lipase, especially in the abdominal region. Yet cortisol alone isn't enough to cause fat gain—insulin is still required. Ben illustrates this by showing how individuals with untreated type 1 diabetes have high cortisol and high appetite but still lose fat without insulin.Lastly, cortisol influences the brain's hunger and reward systems, increasing carbohydrate cravings through neuropeptide Y and dopamine signaling. Chronic stress or medical conditions that elevate cortisol can drive overeating and central obesity. In short, while cortisol is necessary, its chronic elevation leads to insulin resistance, fat redistribution, and loss of metabolic control.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A after the lecture with Ben, ad-free podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more: https://www.benbikman.com#Cortisol #InsulinResistance #ChronicStress #GlucoseControl #MetabolicHealth #CushingsDisease #HormonalBalance #FatStorage #Ceramides #DrBenBikman #VisceralFat #FatLoss #SubcutaneousFat #BloodSugar #AppetiteRegulation #Type2Diabetes #Mitochondria #HPAaxis #CortisolAndCravings #FatDistribution
In this lecture, Dr. Bikman presents a framework for understanding the two primary patterns of insulin resistance onset—what he terms “fast” and “slow” insulin resistance.“Fast” insulin resistance happens quickly and can often be reversed just as rapidly. It's typically triggered by three major factors: elevated insulin (from frequent carb consumption), stress hormones like cortisol and epinephrine, and inflammation (from infection, injury, or autoimmune activity). These triggers lead to the cellular accumulation of ceramides, which interfere with insulin signaling at the molecular level. The good news, he emphasizes, is that when these triggers are removed, the insulin resistance can often resolve quickly.“Slow” insulin resistance, on the other hand, develops gradually and is more difficult to reverse. It begins in the fat cell, where prolonged exposure to insulin and excess calories causes hypertrophy—the fat cells get larger. As they grow, they become insulin resistant as a form of self-preservation, but this leads to a damaging cascade: elevated free fatty acids, chronic low-grade inflammation, and disruption of glucose control. Dr. Bikman describes how hypertrophic fat cells become hypoxic, triggering inflammation and impairing surrounding tissues.Unlike the fast form, slow insulin resistance is rooted in long-term lifestyle habits and takes time to correct. The standard advice to “just cut calories” fails to address the core issue—chronically high insulin. Instead, Ben recommends that people first focus on lowering insulin through carbohydrate restriction, which naturally curbs hunger, boosts energy expenditure, and allows fat cells to shrink in a sustainable way.He concludes that understanding whether your insulin resistance is fast or slow in origin can help shape more effective interventions. With better insight into the mechanisms—from ceramides to fat cell hypertrophy—comes better, more targeted strategies to improve metabolic health.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A after the lecture with Ben, ad-free podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more: https://www.benbikman.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
During this week's Metabolic Classroom lecture, Ben explores the metabolic power of cold therapy, explaining how brief, controlled exposure to cold can significantly enhance metabolic function.He starts with a deep dive into brown adipose tissue (BAT), which is rich in mitochondria and burns calories to generate heat. Cold exposure activates BAT through norepinephrine, leading to mitochondrial uncoupling and energy expenditure without producing ATP. Interestingly, even white fat can be transformed into metabolically active “beige” fat, increasing thermogenesis.Dr. Bikman then moves into how shivering muscle activity contributes to thermogenesis. Unlike BAT, muscle contraction generates heat while performing work. Shivering triggers glucose uptake, improves insulin sensitivity, and releases irisin, a hormone that stimulates thermogenic activity in fat tissue. He also discusses AMPK activation, which plays a key role in facilitating this glucose-burning process.The lecture then highlights a series of hormones influenced by cold, including FGF21 and adiponectin, which boost fat oxidation, enhance insulin sensitivity, and promote mitochondrial biogenesis. Ben reflects on the broader role of the autonomic nervous system, emphasizing how cold therapy improves both sympathetic and parasympathetic function, promoting nervous system flexibility and resilience.Dr. Bikman wraps up by comparing cold exposure methods—from face immersion and cold showers to cryotherapy and full-body ice baths. He strongly endorses full-body cold water immersion as the most effective strategy, especially when shivering occurs post-immersion. His personal recommendation is the Morozko Forge ice bath (he has no vested interest in this company), citing its sustained metabolic impact and practical benefit. He closes by urging viewers to consider cold therapy as a scientifically grounded tool to support overall metabolic health.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A after the lecture with Ben, ad-free podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more: https://www.benbikman.com#ColdTherapy #IceBath #BrownFat #MetabolicHealth #InsulinResistance #Mitochondria #ShiveringThermogenesis #AMPK #Irisin #FGF21 #Adiponectin #FatLoss #GlucoseControl #HealthOptimization #AutonomicNervousSystem #BeigeFat #WeightLossTips #Hormones #Biohacking #BenBikman #drbenbikman
During this week's Metabolic Classroom lecture, Dr. Ben Bikman explores the connection between seed oils—specifically linoleic acid—and insulin resistance, a growing area of interest and controversy in the metabolic health world.Ben begins by detailing the historical rise of seed oils like soybean, corn, sunflower, and canola oil in the human diet. Once used for industrial purposes, they have now become the most common source of dietary fat, with soybean oil consumption increasing from zero to over 20 pounds per person per year in the U.S.. This rise coincides with a global increase in insulin resistance, prompting the question: Are seed oils to blame?Dr. Bikman focuses on linoleic acid, the primary omega-6 polyunsaturated fat in seed oils, and differentiates between the fat itself and its oxidation products, such as 4-HNE and 13-HODE. He cites cell culture studies showing that unoxidized linoleic acid doesn't impair insulin signaling, but its peroxidation products dramatically compromise insulin receptor function and glucose transport. Animal studies further support this by showing that diets high in linoleic acid lead to insulin resistance, obesity, and elevated inflammatory markers, while animals consuming fats like coconut oil fare much better.However, when it comes to human studies, the picture becomes more complex. Some clinical trials suggest that diets high in polyunsaturated fats can improve insulin sensitivity—but these diets are almost always high in carbohydrates, and rarely test seed oils in a low-carb context. Dr. Bikman proposes a unifying theory: saturated fats may be more problematic when consumed alongside carbohydrates, because insulin shunts them into ceramide biosynthesis, a direct driver of insulin resistance. Linoleic acid, on the other hand, becomes dangerous when it undergoes peroxidation, especially in high oxidative stress environments or when used in cooking.Ben concludes that context matters. Linoleic acid is present in all natural fats and can't be avoided entirely—but its overconsumption through refined seed oils, particularly in fried foods or highly processed products, is likely harmful. He encourages consumption of natural fats from animals and fruits (like coconuts and olives), rather than industrial seed oils, especially for those concerned about metabolic health and insulin resistance.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A after the lecture with Ben, ad-free podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more: https://www.benbikman.comBen's favorite yerba maté and fiber supplement: https://ufeelgreat.com/usa/en/c/1BA884Ben's favorite meal-replacement shake: https://gethlth.com (discount: BEN10)Ben's favorite electrolytes (and more): https://redmond.life (discount: BEN15)Ben's favorite allulose source: https://rxsugar.com (discount: BEN20)Ben's favorite health check-up for women: https://choosejoi.co/drben15 (discount: DRBEN15)Ben's favorite health check-up for men: https://blokes.co/drben15 (discount: DRBEN15)Ben's favorite exogenous ketone: https://www.americanketone.com (discount: BEN10)Ben's favorite dress shirts and pants: https://toughapparel.com/?ref=40 (use BEN10 for 10% off)Other products Ben likes: https://www.amazon.com/shop/benbikmanphd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Stress is a significant factor contributing to insulin resistance and, consequently, to weight management challenges. Today's episode features Dr. Benjamin Bikman on the primary causes of insulin resistance that can lead to weight gain, and Jeff shares personal protocols he adopted to lose 60 pounds.This episode originally aired on January 9, 2024This podcast is supported by: Sunlighten:Visit Sunlighten.com/commune and use code ‘Commune' to save up to $600 on your Sunlighten Sauna.Puori:Go to Puori.com/COMMUNE use promo code COMMUNE to save 20% on a one-time purchaseStemregen:Get 20% off your first order at stemregen.co/commune with the code COMMUNEPODQualia:Go to qualialife.com/commune to try Qualia Senolytic backed by a 100 day money back guarantee, and use promo code Commune to get 15% off!LMNT:Get a free sample pack with any purchase at DrinkLMNT.com/COMMUNE
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Dr. Ben Bikman explores blood sugar, weight loss, and hormonal health, sharing his expertise on how blood sugar imbalances contribute to chronic diseases. He clarifies the weight loss process, focusing on glucose, ketones, and GLP-1 hormones, particularly for women in midlife. Ben demystifies the ketogenic diet and explains how ketones impact men and women differently while offering practical tips for optimizing metabolism naturally. This episode provides valuable tools for anyone looking to improve their health and manage midlife weight gain. To view full show notes, more information on our guests, resources mentioned in the episode, discount codes, transcripts, and more, visit https://drmindypelz.com/ep278 Dr. Benjamin Bikman is a renowned metabolic scientist and professor of Cell Biology and Physiology at Brigham Young University. His research focuses on the role of insulin and its impact on metabolic health, particularly insulin resistance and its association with chronic diseases. In his book Why We Get Sick: The Hidden Epidemic at the Root of Most Chronic Disease—and How to Fight It, Dr. Bikman explores the underlying causes of metabolic dysfunction and offers insights into maintaining metabolic health. Dr. Bikman has discussed the metabolic challenges women face during perimenopause and menopause, emphasizing the role of hormonal changes, particularly the decline in estrogen, which can lead to increased insulin resistance and fat accumulation. Check out our fasting membership at resetacademy.drmindypelz.com. Please note our medical disclaimer.
In this Metabolic Classroom lecture, Dr. Bikman explores GLP-1 receptor agonists (such as Ozempic and Mounjaro) and how to use them more effectively.Ben first explains how GLP-1 is naturally produced in the gut and helps regulate glucagon suppression, slows gastric emptying, and promotes satiety. However, he highlights research showing that individuals with obesity have a blunted GLP-1 response to carbohydrates, which may contribute to overeating. He suggests that GLP-1 drugs could be used more strategically—not just for general weight loss, but specifically to control carbohydrate cravings.While these drugs can promote rapid weight loss, they can also come with serious trade-offs, including mental health risks (depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts), lean mass loss (up to 40% of weight lost), diminishing effects over time, and digestive complications such as gastroparesis (stomach paralysis). He critiques the current high-dose, long-term approach to these medications, arguing that most people are not using them strategically and eventually regain lost weight—primarily as fat.Dr. Bikman proposes a better approach to using GLP-1 drugs that focuses on low-dose, short-term usage to help control carbohydrate cravings, rather than suppressing appetite completely.His four-step plan includes: (1) starting at the lowest effective dose, (2) engaging in resistance training to preserve muscle mass, (3) adopting a low-carb, high-protein diet, and (4) cycling off the drug after 3-6 months to assess whether cravings remain under control. He also discusses newer GLP-1/GIP dual agonists like Tirzepatide, which may be even more effective but still require careful usage.In closing, Ben emphasizes that GLP-1 drugs should be a tool, not a crutch.The ultimate goal should be to regain control over eating habits, build long-term dietary discipline, and use the drug only when needed. He encourages those considering these medications to work closely with their healthcare providers and approach them with a long-term metabolic health strategy in mind.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references referred to in this episode, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A with Ben, ad-free Metabolic Classroom Podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more: https://www.benbikman.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For this week's Metabolic Classroom lecture, Dr. Bikman focuses on natural ways to boost GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1), a powerful gut hormone involved in appetite control, blood sugar regulation, and metabolic health.Ben begins by explaining that GLP-1 is secreted in response to food intake, influencing glucagon suppression, slowing gastric emptying, and activating satiety centers in the brain. However, research shows that individuals with obesity tend to have a blunted GLP-1 response, particularly after consuming carbohydrates. This means that people with obesity may not experience the same level of fullness and appetite regulation, which can contribute to overeating.Dr. Bikman then discusses concerns with GLP-1 receptor agonist medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy. While they effectively promote weight loss, they also come with significant downsides, including loss of lean mass (up to 40% of total weight lost), increased mental health risks (depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts), and a return of sweet cravings over time. Additionally, 70% of people discontinue these drugs within two years, often regaining weight—primarily as fat—due to muscle loss during treatment.He then presents natural methods to enhance GLP-1 production without drugs. His lab at BYU found that Yerba Mate significantly increases GLP-1 by 40-50%, likely due to its ferulic acid content and bitter taste receptors that also reduce sweet cravings. Allulose, a rare sugar, has also been shown to stimulate GLP-1 and improve glucose control, even in individuals with type 1 diabetes. Other natural boosters include a low-carbohydrate, protein-rich diet, which triples GLP-1 levels compared to a low-fat diet, collagen peptides, which enhance GLP-1 secretion and insulin sensitivity, and quality sleep, since poor sleep is linked to impaired GLP-1 signaling and increased hunger.Dr. Bikman concludes by emphasizing that leveraging diet and lifestyle changes is the most effective and sustainable way to improve GLP-1 levels, regulate appetite, and support long-term metabolic health. While GLP-1 medications may serve a purpose, particularly for those struggling with carbohydrate cravings, they come with risks that should not be ignored. Instead, strategies such as Yerba Mate, allulose, low-carb diets, collagen peptides, and better sleep can provide natural, lasting benefits without side effects.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references referred to in this episode, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A with Ben, ad-free Metabolic Classroom Podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more: https://www.benbikman.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dr. Bikman's lecture this week explores the metabolic roles of bilirubin, a molecule typically associated with liver disease and jaundice but now emerging as a key player in metabolism, oxidative stress, and fat regulation.Bilirubin is produced from the breakdown of red blood cells and is transported to the liver, where it undergoes conjugation to become water-soluble and is then excreted into bile.While historically viewed as a waste product, recent research suggests that bilirubin plays a significant role in protecting against oxidative stress and inflammation, and may even contribute to metabolic flexibility and fat metabolism.One of bilirubin's most fascinating properties is its potent antioxidant effect. It neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS), helping to reduce oxidative stress—a key driver of chronic diseases, including insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegeneration. Bilirubin also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, inhibiting key inflammatory pathways such as NF-kappa B, which is involved in obesity-related inflammation. Interestingly, individuals with Gilbert Syndrome, a genetic condition that causes mildly elevated bilirubin levels, have been shown to have a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular disease.Beyond its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory roles, bilirubin also influences fat metabolism. Studies suggest that bilirubin enhances mitochondrial function and thermogenesis, particularly in brown and beige fat, by increasing UCP-1 (uncoupling protein 1) expression, which helps the body burn fat more efficiently.Ben concludes by discussing ways to naturally increase bilirubin levels. Since bilirubin is excreted in bile, diets higher in fat may enhance enterohepatic recycling, allowing more bilirubin to re-enter circulation and exert its beneficial effects. While excessive bilirubin can be toxic, modestly elevated levels, as seen in Gilbert Syndrome, appear to provide metabolic advantages.This growing body of research challenges the outdated view of bilirubin as a mere waste product and suggests that it may be a crucial player in metabolic health.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references referred to in this episode, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A with Ben, ad-free Metabolic Classroom Podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more about becoming an Insider on our website: https://www.benbikman.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to the metabolism masterclass!Dr. Ben Bikman (Ph.D Professor BYU), a powerhouse in metabolism science, joins Dave to expose the truth about insulin resistance—the silent epidemic fueling obesity, chronic disease, and low energy. Forget the outdated calorie-counting nonsense (it doesn't work)—Dr. Bikman reveals how your hormones, not just your diet, control your metabolism and what you can do to reset it fast. From debunking diet myths to uncovering why some people can eat 400 grams of carbs and never gain fat (hint: it's not what you think), this episode unpacks the real science of fat storage, energy, and optimal health. Get ready for mind-blowing insights, metabolic hacks, and a new way to think about food, fasting, and longevity. What You'll Learn: • The #1 driver of insulin resistance—and why most doctors miss it • Why eating more fat (yes, really) could be the key to reversing metabolic dysfunction • How fasting, cold therapy, and red light impact your metabolism • The truth about carbs, seed oils, and why some people can't gain fat • How to tell if insulin resistance is wrecking your energy & health Resources: • Dave Asprey's New Book - Heavily Meditated: https://daveasprey.com/heavily-meditated/ • Benjamin's new book How Not To Get Sick : https://a.co/d/aADlMWv • Benjamin's YouTube Page – https://www.youtube.com/@benbikman • 2025 Biohacking Conference: https://biohackingconference.com/2025 • Danger Coffee: https://dangercoffee.com • Dave Asprey's Website: https://daveasprey.com • Dave Asprey's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/daveasprey • Upgrade Collective – Join The Human Upgrade Podcast Live: https://www.ourupgradecollective.com • Own an Upgrade Labs: https://ownanupgradelabs.com • Upgrade Labs: https://upgradelabs.com • 40 Years of Zen – Neurofeedback Training for Advanced Cognitive Enhancement: https://40yearsofzen.com SPONSORS: -Lumiram | Go to http://healthlighting.com/dave to save 10% on your order. -Timeline | Head to https://www.timeline.com/dave to get 10% off your first order. Timestamps: 00:00 Trailer 00:52 Introduction to Dr. Benjamin Bikman 02:20 The Battle Against Conventional Dietetics 04:12 Understanding Insulin Resistance 06:29 The Two Paths to Insulin Resistance 10:19 Fasting and Metabolic Health 14:11 Insulin and Cognitive Enhancement 18:16 Identifying Insulin Resistance 30:12 The Role of Insulin in Fat Storage 42:04 Understanding Glucose and Insulin Dynamics 42:26 The Role of Exercise in Glucose Regulation 42:54 AMPK and Muscle Contraction 45:21 Calories In, Calories Out Debate 46:15 The Myth of Calorie Counting 50:13 Ketosis and Metabolic Rate 51:14 Intermittent Fasting and Muscle Preservation 55:21 Insulin Resistance and Ketogenic Diets 01:02:04 Circadian Rhythm and Insulin Sensitivity 01:08:08 Environmental Toxins and Insulin Resistance 01:13:03 The Impact of Seed Oils on Insulin Resistance 01:19:22 Final Thoughts and Resources See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Dr. Bikman's Metabolic Classroom lecture this week explores peptides and their effects on metabolism, fat loss, muscle growth, and overall health.Ben begins by defining peptides as short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules in the body. While some peptides occur naturally, others are synthetically developed for therapeutic purposes. He explains that peptides are gaining popularity in fitness, anti-aging, and metabolic health, influencing fat loss, muscle repair, insulin sensitivity, and even skin regeneration. He also introduces collagen peptides, highlighting their unexpected metabolic benefits, including their influence on GLP-1 and gut microbiome health.Ben then categorizes peptides based on their primary functions. For fat loss, peptides like CJC-1295 and Tesamorelin work by stimulating growth hormone and IGF-1, promoting fat breakdown while preserving muscle mass. Another peptide, Melanotan-2, originally known for increasing melanin, has been found to suppress appetite by affecting the melanocortin system. He also discusses peptides like Ipamorelin, which help enhance muscle recovery and growth by selectively increasing growth hormone secretion without affecting other pituitary hormones.In the anti-aging and skin health category, Thymosin Beta-4 stands out for its ability to enhance wound healing and tissue repair. Dr. Bikman also highlights the unexpected metabolic role of collagen peptides, explaining how they can increase GLP-1 levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and even activate AMPK, a crucial metabolic regulator involved in fat breakdown and cellular repair.Finally, he touches on how peptides are administered—most commonly via subcutaneous injections, though some peptides can be absorbed sublingually or applied topically.He cautions that not all peptides are created equal, warning against low-quality or counterfeit products. Ben emphasizes the need for high-quality sourcing and careful monitoring, as some peptides affect hormone levels and require medical supervision.Dr. Bikman concludes that peptides hold immense potential for metabolic health, fitness, and longevity, but should be used wisely and responsibly.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references referred to in this episode, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A with Ben, ad-free Metabolic Classroom Podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more about becoming an Insider on our website: https://www.benbikman.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jordan Peterson sits down with bestselling author and bioenergetics Ph.D., Dr. Benjamin Bikman. They discuss the epidemic of insulin resistance in America and its profound effects on health, the sugar addiction crisis, how dopamine hijacks your brain, how to navigate the American diet, and the potential to fix it invitationally from the top down over the next four years. Benjamin Bikman earned a Ph.D. in bioenergetics at East Carolina University with a focus on the adaptations to metabolic surgeries in obesity. He continued to explore metabolic disorders, with a particular focus on insulin resistance, as a postdoctoral fellow at the Duke-National University of Singapore. As a professor at Brigham Young University and the director of its Diabetes Research Lab, Dr. Bikman has continued to study insulin, including its role as a regulator of human metabolism, as well as insulin's relevance in chronic disease. In addition to his research and teaching, Dr. Bikman actively serves as a research mentor to undergraduate and graduate students. He and his students frequently present and publish their findings. This episode was filmed on January 27th, 2025. | Links | For Dr. Benjamin Bikman: On X https://x.com/BenBikmanPhD?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/benbikmanphd/?hl=en On YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@benbikman Read Dr. Bikman's most recent book, “How Not to Get Sick: A Cookbook and Guide to Prevent and Reverse Insulin Resistance, Lose Weight, and Fight Chronic Disease” https://a.co/d/iPrxgTE
88% of adults have metabolic disease, but what's really making us sick? Dr Benjamin Bikman reveals the hidden dangers of insulin and how to take control of your health Dr Benjamin Bikman is a metabolic scientist and Professor of Cell Biology and Physiology. He is the host of ‘The Metabolic Classroom' podcast and author of books such as, ‘Why We Get Sick: The Hidden Epidemic at the Root of Most Chronic Disease―and How to Fight It'. In this conversation, Dr Benjamin and Steven discuss topics such as, the link between insulin and infertility, how to lose weight without counting calories, how ketosis can boost brain function, and the negative effects of Ozempic on bone density. 00:00 Intro 02:19 My Mission to Help with Chronic Diseases 05:05 What Is Insulin Resistance? 13:53 What Causes Insulin Resistance? 21:01 Can Insulin Resistance Become Chronic? 25:22 The Importance of Fat Cells Shrinking or Expanding 34:53 What's the Evolutionary Basis of Insulin Resistance? 42:17 The Role of Insulin During Pregnancy 43:39 What Is Gestational Diabetes? 45:05 Does It Impact the Future Baby? 45:59 Women's Cancer Is Increasing While Men's Remains the Same 50:33 Ads 51:29 Alzheimer's and Dementia Are on the Rise 01:05:34 Ethnicities and Their Different Fat Distributions 01:10:03 What to Do to Extend Our Lives 01:19:31 Cholesterol: The Molecule of Life 01:22:15 Smoking Causes Insulin Resistance 01:23:52 Does Smoking Make Us Fat? 01:29:04 Ads 01:31:04 Ketosis and Insulin Sensitivity 01:39:16 Ketone Shots 01:41:12 Steven's Keto Journey 01:47:40 How to Keep Your Muscles on a Keto Diet 01:55:25 Are There Downsides to the Ketogenic Diet? 01:57:17 Is Keto Bad for Your Gut Microbiome? 02:07:05 Are Sweeteners Okay in a Keto Diet? 02:11:04 Is Salt Bad for Us? 02:19:22 The Importance of Exercise to Maintain Healthy Insulin Levels 02:22:03 Calorie Restriction 02:23:51 Why Don't We Just Take Ozempic? 02:26:19 The Side Effects of Ozempic 02:34:56 Why Liposuction Doesn't Work Long-Term 02:39:34 Who Believed In You When No One Else Did? Follow Dr Benjamin: Instagram - https://g2ul0.app.link/29ILyDZLJQb Twitter - https://g2ul0.app.link/mT5RKy1LJQb Website - https://g2ul0.app.link/uSaQIc3LJQb You can purchase Dr Benjamin's book, ‘How Not to Get Sick: A Cookbook and Guide to Prevent and Reverse Insulin Resistance, Lose Weight, and Fight Chronic Disease', here: https://g2ul0.app.link/bcuFsHbMJQb Watch the episodes on Youtube - https://g2ul0.app.link/DOACEpisodes My new book! 'The 33 Laws Of Business & Life' is out now - https://g2ul0.app.link/DOACBook You can purchase the The Diary Of A CEO Conversation Cards: Second Edition, here: https://g2ul0.app.link/f31dsUttKKb Follow me: https://g2ul0.app.link/gnGqL4IsKKb Sponsors: Fiverr - https://fiverr.com/diary and use code DIARY for 10% off your first order PerfectTed - https://www.perfectted.com with code DIARY40 for 40% off WHOOP - JOIN.WHOOP.COM/CEO Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
EP. 190: What if the key to not dying early—or at least living vibrantly—boils down to one thing? Metabolic health. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Ben Bikman, one of the world's leading experts on insulin resistance & metabolic health. Dr. Bikman is a professor at Brigham Young University and the author of Why We Get Sick, a groundbreaking book that exposes how modern lifestyles are fueling diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. We break down: Why insulin resistance is the root cause of so many chronic conditions The real impact of GLP-1s on metabolism and fat cells The latest cutting-edge research on muscle and GLP1 from Dr. Bikman's lab at BYU What you can do today to take back control of your metabolic health How Insulin Resistance Fuels Chronic Disease—and What to Do About It The Surprising Role of Fat Cells in Metabolism and Hormone Balance Why ‘Eat Less, Move More' Fails Most People—and What Works Instead GLP-1s and Satiety: The Science Behind Appetite and Metabolic Control Cutting-Edge Metabolic Health Research from BYU That Could Change Everything Simple, Science-Backed Strategies to Boost Testosterone Naturally If you care about your hormones, metabolism, and long-term vitality, this episode is a must-listen. Join my FREE 21-Day Strength & Resilience Challenge to get started: www.drtyna.com/strengthandresilience Sponsored By: Timeline Timeline is offering 10% off your order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/drtyna. Puori Go to Puori.com/drtyna and use code DRTYNA to get 20% off Purity Woods Go to puritywoods.com/DRTYNA or enter DRTYNA at checkout for 27% off Sundays Get 40% off your first order of Sundays. Go to sundaysfordogs.com/DRTYNA and use code DRTYNA at checkout. BIOptimizers For an exclusive offer go to bioptimizers.com/drtyna and use promo code DRTYNA On This Episode We Cover: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:57 - Teaching at BYU 00:03:32 - Dr. Ben's books 00:05:42 - Defining insulin resistance 00:10:14 - Insulin resistance and chronic disease 00:17:50 - Viruses and fat cells 00:19:56 - Fast vs. slow insulin resistance 00:26:21 - Overfilled fat cells 00:28:24 - Issues with the “Eat less & exercise more” approach 00:31:27 - Genes and metabolic health 00:32:12 - Satiety & GLP-1 response 00:37:25 - Appetite control vs. suppression 00:39:22 - GLP-1 dosing 00:42:33 - Hormones and metabolism 00:48:13 - Estrogen replacement therapy and testing 00:51:57 - AMPK, mTOR, and supplementation 00:57:57 - Metformin study 00:59:46 - Easiest ways to increase testosterone Further Listening: 10 Health Trends We Are Ditching in 2025 | Solo Kick Off 2025 with Strength, Resilience & Purpose | Quick & Dirty The Surprising Health Connections Between You and Your Dog | Quick & Dirty Check Out Dr. Ben: Instagram Website Books Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or other supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. Information provided in this blog/podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast by you does not create a doctor-patient relationship between you and Dr. Tyna Moore. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease.
A Rebelião Saudável nasceu da união de diversos profissionais de saúde que pensam diferente e cujo foco é promover saúde e bem estar, com comida de verdade e sem medicamentos. Semanalmente a Rebelião se reune no app Telegram para discussão de tópicos importantes relacionados a Nutrição Humana e Qualidade de vida. Nessa semana, conversamos sobre Resistência a Insulina e Hipertensão. Referências: BIKMAN, Benjamin. Why we get sick: the hidden epidemic at the root of most chronic disease and how to fight it. Dallas: Benbella, 2020. 258 p. IGNARRO, Louis J. NO More Heart Disease: Houw Nitric Oxide Can Prevent, Even Reverse, Heart Disease and Strokes.New York: St. Marlin's Press, 2005. 248 p.
Learn more about becoming an Insider: https://www.benbikman.comIn this week's lecture, Dr. Bikman explores the metabolic origins of acne, challenging the conventional view that acne is purely a skin issue. While acne is often attributed to excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation, Ben highlights how metabolic factors—especially insulin—play a significant role.Insulin directly stimulates sebaceous glands, increasing oil production, and also triggers the release of androgens (such as testosterone), further worsening acne. Additionally, insulin resistance promotes inflammation and hyperkeratinization, both of which contribute to acne severity.He explains that puberty naturally induces a state of insulin resistance, which helps drive growth and development. However, when combined with modern high-carbohydrate diets, this physiological insulin resistance can be exacerbated, leading to severe acne in some teenagers. He also discusses the role of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which is stimulated by high insulin levels and is known to increase sebum production and accelerate skin cell turnover, worsening acne conditions.Ben then presents compelling research on metabolic-based acne treatments, including the use of metformin, an insulin-sensitizing drug that has shown promise in reducing acne, particularly in conditions like PCOS. He also highlights dietary interventions, particularly low-carbohydrate and ketogenic diets, which have been found to significantly reduce acne severity by lowering insulin and improving skin health. One study found that young women on a ketogenic diet saw a 33% reduction in acne severity and a 50% improvement in skin quality within just 45 days.He concludes that acne is not just a cosmetic issue but a metabolic condition that can be managed through dietary and lifestyle changes. While conventional acne treatments address symptoms, tackling insulin resistance through proper nutrition provides a long-term solution. He encourages those struggling with acne to focus on cutting out refined carbohydrates, prioritizing protein, and embracing healthy fats to regulate insulin levels and improve skin health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Learn more about becoming an Insider: https://www.benbikman.comIn this week's episode of the Metabolic Classroom lectures, Dr. Ben Bikman explores the metabolic impact of ADHD medications and whether ADHD itself has metabolic roots.Ben explains how stimulant medications (like Adderall and Ritalin) primarily work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine, enhancing focus but also suppressing appetite and stimulating fat breakdown. This can lead to weight loss but may also contribute to binge eating episodes when the medication wears off. Non-stimulant ADHD medications (like Atomoxetine and Guanfacine) affect metabolism in different ways—some subtly improve insulin sensitivity, while others reduce fat breakdown, potentially leading to weight gain.Beyond medication, Dr. Bikman discusses ADHD as a possible metabolic disorder. Studies show that individuals with ADHD often have reduced glucose metabolism in the prefrontal cortex, the brain region responsible for attention and impulse control. He highlights research linking chronic sugar consumption to dopamine imbalances and brain energy instability, suggesting that modern dietary habits may be worsening ADHD symptoms.One potential solution? Ketones as an alternative brain fuel. Dr. Bikman shares research on the ketogenic diet as a therapy for ADHD, similar to its use in epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease. By shifting the brain's energy source from glucose to ketones, individuals may experience more stable brain function and improved focus. He concludes that ADHD may not just be a neurological condition—it could also be a metabolic issue, and targeting brain metabolism may offer new treatment possibilities.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references referred to in this episode, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A with Ben, ad-free Metabolic Classroom Podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more about becoming an Insider on our website: https://www.benbikman.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Learn more about becoming an Insider: https://www.benbikman.comThis week, Dr. Bikman's lecture focuses on metabolic surgeries (also called bariatric surgeries), their mechanisms, and their impacts on weight loss and metabolic health.Ben begins by explaining the qualifications for these surgeries, which often serve as a last resort for individuals with severe obesity or comorbidities like type 2 diabetes. Common qualifications include a BMI of 40 or higher, or lower BMIs with conditions like hypertension or diabetes. These surgeries aim to address obesity and related health complications when traditional methods, like diet and exercise, fail.Dr. Bikman describes four primary types of metabolic surgeries: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch, and adjustable gastric banding. He explains their procedures, including how they alter digestion, absorption, and stomach size, leading to weight loss through restriction and malabsorption. These surgeries also bring significant hormonal changes, such as increases in GLP-1 and reductions in ghrelin (hunger hormone), contributing to satiety and metabolic improvements.While these surgeries can dramatically improve insulin sensitivity, reduce glucagon levels, and improve conditions like type 2 diabetes, they come with risks. Nutrient deficiencies, surgical complications, dumping syndrome, and weight regain are significant concerns. Younger patients are particularly prone to weight regain, especially if they don't adopt sustainable eating habits. Dr. Bikman emphasizes the need for education on managing macronutrients and maintaining long-term behavioral changes.Ben concludes that metabolic surgeries can be a valuable tool for those with severe obesity and related complications. However, he warns of their limitations and advocates for coupling them with lifestyle changes to optimize long-term success.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references referred to in this episode, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A with Ben, ad-free Metabolic Classroom Podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more about becoming an Insider on our website: https://www.benbikman.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Learn more about becoming an Insider: https://www.benbikman.comDr. Bikman's Metabolic Classroom lecture this week explores the physiological role and implications of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and the GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs used for type 2 diabetes management and weight loss.Ben begins by explaining GLP-1 as a hormone produced in the intestines in response to food. It plays a vital role in slowing gastric emptying, suppressing glucagon, and regulating appetite by signaling fullness to the brain. These mechanisms contribute to its effects on stabilizing blood sugar and enhancing insulin sensitivity.He then delves into GLP-1 receptor agonists, drugs that mimic GLP-1's actions, including semaglutide, liraglutide, and others marketed under brand names like Ozempic and Wegovy. These medications have gained fame for their weight loss efficacy, often leading to reductions in body weight by 15% or more.However, Ben emphasizes that weight loss involves not only fat but also lean mass, raising concerns about muscle loss and metabolic health. Additionally, he discusses the medications' side effects, including depression, anhedonia, and potential long-term complications like fat cell development and gallstones.The lecture also addresses the diminishing returns of these drugs over time, noting that their efficacy in reducing cravings and improving eating control tends to wane after prolonged use. Dr. Bikman highlights that education on healthy eating and resistance training is crucial for maintaining health outcomes, as reliance solely on medication can lead to unintended consequences, such as increased fat regain after discontinuation.Ben concludes by stressing the importance of combining these drugs with a low-carb diet and resistance training to minimize muscle loss and optimize long-term outcomes. He encourages using the lowest effective dose and underscores the need for lifestyle changes to complement pharmacological interventions.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references referred to in this episode, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A with Ben, ad-free Metabolic Classroom Podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more about becoming an Insider on our website: https://www.benbikman.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this Metabolic Classroom lecture, Dr. Bikman delves into the fascinating metabolic process of autophagy, the body's natural recycling system that maintains cellular health by breaking down and reusing damaged components.Ben explains how autophagy is essential for replacing malfunctioning organelles and proteins, thereby preventing diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular conditions, and even some cancers. Autophagy also plays a crucial role in energy production during nutrient deprivation, highlighting its importance for survival and optimal cellular function.Dr. Bikman also discusses the relationship between autophagy and metabolic health, emphasizing how impaired autophagic activity in adipose tissue contributes to inflammation and insulin resistance in obesity. He explores its role in longevity, citing evidence that enhanced autophagy can improve health span and lifespan in animal studies.Additionally, Ben examines how factors like insulin, nutrient availability, and diets such as ketogenic diets regulate autophagy, with ketones having a direct effect on boosting this process.Throughout the lecture, Dr. Bikman underscores the need for balance in autophagy, warning against excessive or constant activation, whether through pharmacological means like rapamycin or mismanaged dietary habits, advocating instead for natural regulation via nutrient signals.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references referred to in this episode, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A with Ben, ad-free Metabolic Classroom Podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more about becoming an Insider on our website: https://www.benbikman.comBen's favorite yerba maté and fiber supplement: https://ufeelgreat.com/usa/en/c/InsulinIQBen's favorite meal-replacement shake: https://gethlth.com (discount: BEN10)Ben's favorite electrolytes (and more): https://redmond.life (discount: BEN15)Ben's favorite allulose source: https://rxsugar.com (discount: BEN20)Ben's favorite health check-up for women: https://choosejoi.co/drben15 (discount: DRBEN15)Ben's favorite health check-up for men: https://blokes.co/drben15 (discount: DRBEN15)Ben's favorite exogenous ketone: https://www.americanketone.com (discount: Ben10)Other products Ben likes: https://www.amazon.com/shop/benbikmanphd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Learn more about becoming an Insider on our website: https://www.benbikman.comDr. Benjamin Bikman delves into the profound relationship between sleep and metabolic health, emphasizing the critical role sleep plays in maintaining insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic function.Ben explains that deep sleep is a restorative phase during which the body repairs cells, regulates hormones, and improves insulin sensitivity. Poor sleep, however, disrupts these vital processes, leading to hormonal imbalances that elevate cortisol levels and reduce melatonin production.Elevated cortisol, a stress hormone, promotes gluconeogenesis and insulin resistance, while insufficient melatonin—a hormone essential for regulating sleep—negatively impacts insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. This disruption creates a cycle of metabolic dysfunction, increasing the risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes and obesity.Dr. Bikman highlights actionable strategies to improve both sleep and metabolic health. He stresses the importance of avoiding high-glycemic meals before bed, minimizing exposure to blue light from screens, and maintaining consistent sleep schedules.He also discusses how ketones, especially in athletes after intense exercise, have been shown to improve sleep efficiency and REM sleep duration.For individuals struggling with sleep, Dr. Bikman explores the potential benefits of melatonin supplementation and exogenous ketones, underscoring the need for personalized approaches. By addressing evening habits and understanding the hormonal interplay between sleep and metabolism, individuals can take meaningful steps to enhance both sleep quality and metabolic health.This episode of The Metabolic Classroom provides valuable insights into how optimizing sleep can significantly improve overall well-being.Timestamps:(00:45) – Introduction to Sleep and Metabolic Health(01:22) – Why Sleep is Essential for Insulin Sensitivity(04:20) – How Cortisol Disrupts Sleep and Metabolism(08:10) – The Unexpected Role of Melatonin in Metabolism(19:35) – How Late-Night Eating and Blue Light Harm Sleep(23:40) – Can Exogenous Ketones Improve Sleep Quality?(28:20) – Practical Tips for Better Sleep and Metabolic Health Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We sincerely apologize! During the livestream recording, we experienced some technical difficulties between 07:15 to 08:50. Thanks for your patience and understanding.Learn more about becoming an Insider on our website: https://www.benbikman.comDuring The Metabolic Classroom lecture this week, Dr. Bikman dives into the intricate relationship between salt- and water-regulating hormones and metabolic health.Starting with a discussion of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), he explains how hormones like angiotensin II, aldosterone, and antidiuretic hormone (ADH) are not only critical for regulating blood pressure but also significantly impact insulin sensitivity and fat cell dynamics. Angiotensin II promotes insulin resistance by increasing ceramide production, which blocks insulin signaling, while also enlarging fat cells and inhibiting their breakdown. Similarly, aldosterone exacerbates insulin resistance by enhancing ceramide levels and promotes both the growth and multiplication of fat cells. ADH complements these effects, particularly by inhibiting fat breakdown through its action on specific receptors.Ben emphasizes the counterintuitive finding that salt restriction, often prescribed to manage hypertension, can worsen insulin resistance, particularly in individuals with metabolic vulnerabilities. Studies highlight that reducing salt intake leads to increased fasting insulin levels, impaired glucose metabolism, and unfavorable lipid changes, such as reduced HDL cholesterol. Additionally, he warns that dehydration, much like salt restriction, activates these same hormonal pathways, compounding their metabolic effects.Dr. Bikman concludes with a reminder that interventions aimed at improving blood pressure should consider their broader metabolic implications, particularly for individuals predisposed to insulin resistance.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references referred to in this episode, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A with Ben, ad-free Metabolic Classroom Podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more about becoming an Insider on our website: https://www.benbikman.comTimestamps: (approximate)(01:13) Overview of Salt- and Water-Regulating Hormones(02:22) How Angiotensin II Influences Blood Pressure and Insulin Resistance(06:37) The Metabolic Effects of Angiotensin II on Fat Cells(11:22) Aldosterone's Role in Insulin Resistance and Fat Cell Growth(15:57) Metabolic Impacts of Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)(29:02) The Counterintuitive Effects of Salt Restriction on Metabolic Health(33:13) The Role of Dehydration in Activating Metabolic Hormones(34:51) Conclusion: How Blood Pressure Hormones Influence Metabolic Health#MetabolicHealth #InsulinResistance #Hypertension #SaltAndHealth #BloodPressure #HormonesAndHealth #DrBenBikman #MetabolicSyndrome #LowCarbLife #Type2Diabetes #KetoLife #HealthyLifestyle #NutritionScience #MetabolismMatters #HealthEducation #FatCellBiology #InsulinSensitivity #SaltIntake #Dehydration #HealthTips Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Inner Carnivore Podcast Season 2 - Episode 1- Ben Bikman, PhD - Understanding Insulin, Metabolic Health, and the Power of Nutrition. In this episode of The Inner Carnivore Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Ben Bikman, renowned metabolic scientist, professor, and author of Why We Get Sick. Dr. Bikman shares his expertise on insulin resistance, metabolic health, and the critical role nutrition plays in preventing chronic diseases. We dive deep into how diet impacts insulin sensitivity, the dangers of a high-carbohydrate lifestyle, and why metabolic health is at the root of modern health epidemics. Dr. Bikman also discusses the benefits of low-carb, animal-based eating for optimizing energy, body composition, and long-term health. Whether you're navigating your own health journey, a fitness enthusiast, or curious about the science behind metabolism, this episode is packed with actionable insights and practical takeaways. Tune in for an engaging conversation with one of the leading voices in the fight for better health! https://www.benbikman.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@benbikman https://www.instagram.com/benbikmanphd/ https://x.com/BenBikmanPhD
Dr. Ben Bikman joins for an insightful discussion on insulin resistance, metabolic health, and chronic diseases like Alzheimer's. Exploring insulin's role in fat metabolism, muscle function, and glucose regulation, Dr. Bikman challenges conventional views on obesity and chronic disease prevention, emphasizing lifestyle changes over medication. He delves into the effects of GLP1 drugs and the significant impact of insulin resistance on cardiovascular health. With expert analysis, Dr. Bikman underscores how understanding insulin can revolutionize preventative health measures and improve metabolic function.Timestamp Summary0:00 Understanding Insulin Resistance and Its Impact on Health6:36 Understanding Insulin's Role in Health and Disease10:20 Understanding Insulin Resistance and Glucose Management20:30 Exploring Natural Supplements for Managing Glucose Levels23:00 Challenging the Plaque Theory in Alzheimer's Disease27:27 Ketones as a Vital Energy Source for the Brain32:04 Exploring Ketone Types and Tastes33:33 Insulin Resistance and Ethnic Differences in Fat Cell Growth38:04 Insulin's Role in Fat Cell Growth and Metabolism45:10 GLP1 Drugs and Dietary Changes for Insulin Sensitivity55:52 Understanding Insulin Resistance and Its Impact on HealthSponsors: Hone Health Hormone Testing: https://honehealth.com/Momentous - Use code NEURO to get 20% off your order - https://www.livemomentous.com/neuroBook a 1-1 Call with a Neuro Athletics advisor to See If We Can Help You coaching practise: https://calendly.com/louisa-nicola/intro-call-with-na-sales-team#Insulin #Metabolism #Alzheimers #Obesity #Diabetes #InsulinResistanceCauses #MetabolicHealthTips #ChronicDiseasePrevention #InsulinResistanceSymptoms #GLP1DrugsEffects #ReduceInsulinResistanceNaturally #InsulinResistanceAlzheimersConnection #GLP1WeightLossImpact #InsulinResistanceCardiovascularDisease #RoleOfInsulinInChronicDiseasesThe Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_Twitter : @louisanicola_YouTube: @Louisa NicolaThe Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman
In this week's episode of The Metabolic Classroom, Dr. Bikman delivers a comprehensive lecture on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), focusing on its role in addressing metabolic health challenges faced by women during menopause.The loss of estradiol causes fat to redistribute from healthier storage areas, like the hips and thighs, to the abdominal region, where larger fat cells become more insulin-resistant and pro-inflammatory. This shift contributes to systemic inflammation and elevates the risk of cardiometabolic diseases. Ben explains how HRT, particularly with estradiol, can mitigate these effects by improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and promoting healthier fat storage patterns.He also addresses historical concerns about HRT, including risks of blood clots and cancer. Dr. Bikman explains that oral estrogens may slightly increase clotting risks due to their first-pass metabolism in the liver, but transdermal delivery methods like patches and gels do not carry this same risk. Regarding cancer, he highlights how older studies, such as the Women's Health Initiative, overstated the connection between HRT and breast cancer, particularly when using estrogen-only therapies. Ben emphasizes the importance of evaluating the absolute risks, which are relatively small.Beyond its metabolic benefits, HRT also shows promise in protecting against conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Ben discusses studies suggesting that HRT, when started early in menopause, may improve cognitive outcomes, preserve brain volume, and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's, particularly in women with the APOE4 gene. These findings suggest that timely HRT may support brain health alongside its other benefits.In conclusion, Ben underscores the substantial metabolic and overall health changes women face during menopause and the potential for HRT to improve quality of life, metabolic health, and long-term outcomes. He stresses the importance of individualized HRT plans tailored to each woman's unique circumstances, allowing for a nuanced approach to mitigating menopause-related challenges.visit https://www.benbikman.comBen's favorite yerba maté and fiber supplement: https://ufeelgreat.com/usa/en/c/InsulinIQBen's favorite meal-replacement shake: https://gethlth.com (discount: BEN10)Ben's favorite electrolytes (and more): https://redmond.life (discount: BEN15)Ben's favorite allulose source: https://rxsugar.com (discount: BEN20)Ben's favorite health check-up for women: https://choosejoi.co/drben15 (discount: DRBEN15)Ben's favorite health check-up for men: https://blokes.co/drben15 (discount: DRBEN15)Ben's favorite exogenous ketone: https://www.americanketone.com (discount: Ben10)Show Notes/References:Due to character length constraints, references are not posted here. However, for a complete list, we respond quickly. Please email: support@benbikman.com with your request, and be sure to mention which Metabolic Classroom episode you are referring to, which in this case is “Episode 80 - Hormone Replacement Therapy in Women”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week in The Metabolic Classroom, Ben explores the effects of a ketogenic diet on thyroid function, addressing concerns that lower thyroid hormone levels observed during the diet may indicate dysfunction.Dr. Bikman begins by explaining the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis, a regulatory system that controls thyroid hormone production. The thyroid gland produces two primary hormones, T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), with T3 being the active form that influences metabolic processes. He emphasizes the concept of negative feedback within the HPT axis, explaining that normal TSH levels generally indicate a well-functioning thyroid, even if T3 levels are lower.Ben also reviews a commonly cited study that observed decreased T3 levels in individuals following a ketogenic diet. Despite the drop in T3, TSH levels remained normal, suggesting that the thyroid gland was not damaged but rather adapting to reduced metabolic demand. He introduces two key explanations: improved thyroid hormone sensitivity and reduced glucose metabolism. Improved sensitivity means that lower levels of T3 are sufficient to maintain metabolic functions, while reduced glucose consumption on a ketogenic diet lessens the body's need for thyroid hormone to regulate glucose uptake.The classroom lecture then delves into the concept of thyroid hormone resistance, a condition linked to metabolic disorders like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Dr. Bikman references studies showing that thyroid resistance is real and measurable, often associated with elevated TSH and thyroid hormones in individuals with metabolic syndrome. He speculates that a ketogenic diet may enhance thyroid sensitivity in these individuals, reducing the need for higher T3 levels.In conclusion, Dr. Bikman reassures those on a ketogenic diet that lower T3 levels do not necessarily indicate harm. If TSH levels are normal and no symptoms of hypothyroidism are present, the changes may reflect a healthy adaptation to the metabolic state induced by the diet.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references referred to in this episode, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman “Insider” subscriber. As a subscriber, you'll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A with Ben, ad-free Metabolic Classroom Podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben's Research Reviews Podcast sent to your inbox weekly, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. You can learn more about becoming an Insider on our website: https://www.benbikman.comBen's favorite yerba maté and fiber supplement: https://ufeelgreat.com/usa/en/c/InsulinIQBen's favorite meal-replacement shake: https://gethlth.com (discount: BEN10)Ben's favorite electrolytes (and more): https://redmond.life (discount: BEN15)Ben's favorite allulose source: https://rxsugar.com (discount: BEN20)Ben's favorite health check-up for women: https://choosejoi.co/drben15 (discount: DRBEN15)Ben's favorite exogenous ketone: https://www.americanketone.com (discount: Ben10) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode we discuss: What Layne Norton is missing regarding seed oils What we think of Liver King's steroid use and how this relates to fitness culture and unhealthy body image Ben Bikman's complete misapplication of a study regarding blood sugar and insulin resistance Jay's response to Thomas DeLauer regarding omega-3s and cod liver oil Check out the Energy Balance Solution program here: https://www.jayfeldmanwellness.com/solution/ Download the Free Energy Balance Food Guide here: https://www.jayfeldmanwellness.com/guide/ Danny's Telegram: https://t.me/dannyroddy Timestamps: 0:00 – intro 0:28 – Andrew Huberman and Layne Norton on whether seed oils are inherently harmful 4:18 – why Layne Norton's "calories-only" view is flawed, as it ignores how the type of food actually affects our bodies 9:58 – whether animal studies are useful in nutritional research, or if only human randomized control trials (RTC) should be considered 15:57 – problematic assumptions and biases in nutritional research and how they can shape research outcomes 20:59 – why the reported health benefits of polyunsaturated fats in research are misleading and harmful 26:54 – the connection between chronic disease and polyunsaturated fats, and how focusing solely on calories relieves the food industry of responsibility for health outcomes 31:43 – Liver King's self-esteem, body image struggles, steroid use, health risks, and why his apology was commendable 41:36 – why cultural standards for physical appearances are unrealistic, unhealthy, and can lead to conflating steroid-enhanced bodies for genuine health 51:12 – health risks associated with steroid-use and having too much muscle mass 1:00:34 – Thomas Delauer and Derek from moreplatesmoredates discuss omega-3s 1:06:21 – whether the antioxidants in fish oil are worth the damage caused by lipid peroxidation 1:10:54 – whether cod liver oil is any better than fish oil 1:17:11 – how to effectively hydrate your cells and the importance of getting enough salt 1:24:44 – why consuming a lot of plain water without electrolytes actually impairs hydration, contributing to increased swelling, increased stress, and impaired energy production 1:32:38 – the importance of getting adequate potassium in addition to salt intake 1:38:03 – factors that may increase your need for water 1:40:02 – what Ben Bikman misses when it comes to blood glucose and insulin resistance 1:48:15 – the true relationship between insulin and blood sugar regulation 1:54:30 – Ben Bikman misapplies this study: it does not support that carbohydrates cause insulin resistance 2:00:38 – creating content in the health sphere, choosing high quality foods, and the benefits of tracking food (using Cronometer or another similar app)
Discover the truth about visceral fat in this captivating episode of Digital Social Hour with Sean Kelly!
Most people understand that metabolism is a key factor in controlling weight and overall health. But the science of how the metabolism actually works can often be confusing or oversimplified. On today's show, we've got one of the world's leading authorities on metabolism here to break down the inner workings of insulin, blood glucose, and more. Metabolic scientist and professor Dr. Benjamin Bikman joins us on this episode of The Model Health Show to unpack the critical role that insulin resistance plays in obesity and chronic illness. You're going to learn the exact mechanics of how insulin resistance occurs in the body, and realistic lifestyle interventions you can implement for better metabolic health. This interview contains key insights on fat loss strategies, how dietary factors impact metabolic health, and the interesting details of Dr. Bikman's research studies. Today's episode is absolutely packed with the latest science on metabolism, so click play and enjoy the show! In this episode you'll discover: The connection between insulin and type 2 diabetes. Which two markers are important for measuring metabolic health. How Dr. Bikman's study helped participants reverse diabetes. Why insulin is a unique hormone in terms of how it impacts cells. The connection between insulin resistance and infertility. What the three primary causes of insulin resistance are. How cortisol and adrenaline impact insulin levels. The important role that sleep plays in insulin sensitivity. Which cause of insulin resistance is the most common. The effect each macronutrient has on insulin levels. How long insulin circulates in the body after eating. The natural rhythm of cortisol levels. How exercise impacts blood glucose levels. The best exercise for metabolic benefits. Why fat cells cannot grow without insulin. How cold water immersion impacts the metabolism. Four main dietary principles for better health. Items mentioned in this episode include: Onnit.com/model - Save an exclusive 10% on performance supplements & tools! Plunge.com/model - Use code MODEL150 to save $150! How Not to Get Sick by Dr. Benjamin Bikman & Diana Keuilian - Get your hands on this new book today! Why We Get Sick by Dr. Benjamin Bikman - Grab a copy of Dr. Bikman's first book! Sleep Smarter - Upgrade your sleep habits with strategies in my national bestselling book! Connect with Dr. Benjamin Bikman Website / Facebook / Instagram Join TMHS Facebook community - Model Nation Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes: Apple Podcasts Spotify Soundcloud Pandora YouTube This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Onnit and Plunge. Visit Onnit.com/model for an exclusive 10% discount on human performance supplements and fitness equipment. Get your very own cold plunge by visiting plunge.com/model and using my code MODEL150.