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Starting college can change almost everything about your routine, including how, when, and what you eat. For students using ketogenic therapy as part of their mental health treatment, that transition can take some planning.In this interview, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with licensed mental health counselor Nicole Laurent about how students using ketogenic therapy with clinical support can navigate a college setting, where dining halls, dorm rooms, busy schedules, social events, and limited budgets can all affect food choices.Nicole shares practical ideas for:Keeping simple foods that support nutritional ketosis in a dorm roomMaking dining hall options workPlanning ahead for busy weeksUsing meal prep or delivery services strategicallyTalking with roommates and friends about dietary choicesAsking for support when staying consistent gets difficultThey also talk about the importance of paying attention to food quality. For students who are not using ketogenic therapy, reducing ultra-processed foods and eating more whole foods may still be a meaningful place to start.If ketogenic therapy is part of a student's mental health care plan, the transition to college may require some adjustments. Planning ahead, building a support system, and working with an experienced care team can help students stay consistent as their routines and environment change.If you're using ketogenic therapy for a psychiatric condition, work closely with an experienced healthcare provider before making treatment changes.
Every day, we make choices about what to eat. But how often do we realize how deeply these choices affect both our physical and mental health?Today, an estimated 93% of adults in America are showing signs of poor metabolic health, which is a major contributor to many chronic conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and many psychiatric disorders.The good news is that more people are recognizing the powerful role food plays in metabolic health. But with all the conversations about what to do next, like limiting ultra-processed foods or reconsidering saturated fat guidelines, are we overlooking one of the most impactful steps we can take?In this video, cardiologist Dr. Bret Scher explores why focusing on reducing or eliminating ultra‑processed carbohydrates may be one of the most powerful ways to address the chronic disease epidemic.Dr. Scher breaks down:What refined carbohydrates are and how they can wreck metabolic healthHow constant glucose spikes and crashes can fuel hunger, fatigue, and poor moodWhat insulin resistance is, how it develops, common symptoms, and how it contributes to chronic diseasesHow visceral fat packs on and contributes to chronic diseaseWhy we can't stop eating refined carbohydratesWhy low fat and high carb diets don't work for most peopleWhat the science says about cutting processed carbsPractical advice on how to eat to improve metabolic health
In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. Chris Palmer, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. We explain how nutrition and metabolism directly affect mental health, including the biological mechanisms underlying these effects. We also discuss how carbohydrate restriction, ketogenic diets and fasting can improve mood, energy, and, in some cases, treatment-resistant psychiatric conditions. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman Eight Sleep: https://eightsleep.com/huberman BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/huberman Timestamps (00:00:00) Chris Palmer (00:00:20) Personal Story, Nutrition & Mental Health (00:05:28) Treatment-Resistant Mental Disorders & Low-Carbohydrate Diet (00:07:32) Sponsor: Eight Sleep (00:08:51) Ketogenic Diet & Schizophrenia Success Story (00:12:20) Nutrition for Mental Disorders, Ketosis, Highly Processed Foods (00:15:13) Epilepsy & Ketogenic Diet, Fasting; Mitochondrial Benefits (00:21:14) Sponsor: BetterHelp (00:22:15) Mitochondria Functions, Mental Disorders (00:28:05) Mitophagy, Autophagy, Longevity & Calorie Restriction (00:33:12) Sponsor: AG1 (00:34:25) Carbohydrate Restriction, Depression Treatment (00:37:23) Acknowledgements Disclaimer & Disclosures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Do most people really need to eat less protein to live longer? In this episode of Metabolic Mind, Dr. Bret Scher responds to a new review getting attention for the claim that protein restriction may extend lifespan, and explains why that message can be misleading for older adults, active people, and anyone focused on metabolic health.Dr. Scher walks through the biology behind the headlines, including mTOR, FGF21, animal research, and the limits of applying rodent data directly to humans. He also explains why adequate protein becomes more important with age, especially for preserving muscle, reducing frailty risk, supporting insulin sensitivity, and maintaining independence.He covers:Why “eat less protein” headlines can miss important contextWhat mTOR and FGF21 have to do with protein restriction and longevityWhy rodent studies do not always translate cleanly to human healthHow sarcopenia and anabolic resistance change protein needs with ageWhy the protein RDA is a minimum, not a personalized target for health optimizationHow muscle supports glucose control and insulin sensitivityWhy protein needs depend on age, activity level, metabolic health, pregnancy, recovery, and training statusHow exercise, fasting, and lower insulin may influence similar cellular pathways without sacrificing adequate proteinProtein needs are personal. A sedentary 35-year-old, a 70-year-old trying to preserve muscle, an athlete, and someone recovering from illness are not all aiming for the same target. Age, activity, metabolic health, and muscle goals should shape the conversation.
Can ketogenic therapy be safe for someone with heart disease, atherosclerosis, or a stent? Can you follow a ketogenic diet without losing weight? In this Metabolic Mailbag episode, Dr. Bret Scher answers viewer questions about ketogenic therapy, cardiovascular risk, anorexia recovery, pregnancy and nursing, schizophrenia remission, keto on a budget, and whether doctors learn about ketogenic therapy in medical school.He covers:Ketogenic therapy and cardiovascular disease after a stent or atherosclerosisHow to follow a ketogenic diet without unwanted weight lossWhat early research suggests about ketogenic therapy for weight-restored anorexiaKetogenic therapy during pregnancy or nursing, and why clinical supervision is essentialLab markers that may change during sustained nutritional ketosisWhy schizophrenia symptom remission is different from a cureHow genetics and metabolism may both contribute to serious mental illnessBudget-friendly ways to approach a well-formulated ketogenic dietWhy keto is rarely taught in medical schoolThe big takeaway is that ketogenic therapy is best understood as a clinical tool, not a one-size-fits-all template. Heart history, weight goals, symptoms, labs, pregnancy, medications, budget, and support all shape what the right approach looks like.
How can clinicians use real-world patient data to personalize metabolic health care? In this episode of Metabolic Mind, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with Dr. Jeff Pua, an internal medicine and obesity medicine physician, about obesity medicine, metabolic syndrome, nutritional ketosis, and what clinicians can learn from patient outcomes in everyday practice.Dr. Pua shares how his approach has evolved from relying only on broad research categories to also paying close attention to individual patient experiments, blood tests, and lived experience. In his practice, he sees patients improve not only in weight and metabolic markers, but also in mood, mindset, mental sharpness, and confidence as they begin to see measurable changes in their own health.They cover:How obesity medicine is evolving beyond the number on the scaleWhy metabolic syndrome is a major focus in Dr. Pua's practiceHow N-of-1 patient data can help clinicians personalize careWhat blood tests can reveal about real-world metabolic improvementWhy nutritional ketosis can be a helpful benchmark for some patientsHow nutrition, physical activity, and behavior change work togetherWhy exercise may become more accessible once metabolic health improvesThis conversation offers a clinician's view of how metabolic health care can become more personalized, measurable, and empowering for patients.
Primary & Secondary ModcastJoe Chambers, Matt Landfair, Chris Palmer, and A.J. Zito discuss how 2011s have improved, how to keep them running, and tips for shooting them better.Episode Sponsors:High Desert CartridgePHLster educational content: https://www.youtube.com/@PHLsterSons of Liberty Gun WorksOur Patreon can be found here:https://www.patreon.com/PrimaryandSecondaryPrimary & Secondary:Website: https://primaryandsecondary.com/Facebook: https://facebook.com/primaryandsecondary/Forum: https://primaryandsecondary.com/forumComplete Audio Podcasts: https://spreaker.com/show/primary-secondary-podcastRumble: https://rumble.com/user/PrimaryandSecondaryYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PrimarySecondaryResurrectionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/primary-secondary-podcast--2585240/support.
Can chronic stress undermine metabolic health, even when nutrition, sleep, and exercise are in place?In this episode of Metabolic Mind, Dr. Bret Scher explains why stress recovery is an important part of metabolic health and how chronic cortisol and adrenaline activation may affect insulin resistance, blood pressure, inflammation, sleep, and long-term cardiometabolic health.Dr. Scher breaks down the difference between short-term stress that helps us respond to challenges and chronic stress that keeps the body's alarm system switched on. He also shares why stress recovery doesn't have to mean an hour of meditation or a weekend nature retreat. Even brief, consistent practices like 10 minutes outside, a short walk, sunlight exposure, calming music, or nature sounds may help the nervous system reset.In the episode, Dr. Scher covers:How chronic stress can affect blood sugar, insulin resistance, and blood pressureWhy cortisol and adrenaline are helpful short term but harmful when constantly elevatedHow stress can disrupt sleep, cognition, inflammation, and metabolic healthWhy meditation works for some people, and why consistency matters more than durationHow nature exposure, sunlight, and natural sounds may support stress recoveryWhy recognizing early stress signals can help prevent bigger health consequencesHow small daily recovery practices can support cardiovascular, metabolic, and brain healthRegular recovery practices give your stress response somewhere to land. A few minutes of meditation, a walk outside, sunlight, music, or even nature sounds can help support steadier blood sugar, better sleep, and a brain and body that aren't constantly running on high alert.
Could GLP-1 medications play a role in treating bulimia or binge eating disorder? In this episode of Metabolic Mind, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with Paige Gordon and psychiatrist Dr. Michael Lutter about Paige's personal experience using a GLP-1 medication for treatment-resistant bulimia, and why researchers are beginning to explore the neurobiology of binge eating.Paige shares how years of therapy and medication never quieted the overwhelming binge urges that drove her bulimia. After hearing someone describe their experience on a podcast, she began exploring GLP-1 medication and saw a profound change in her urges and eating patterns. Dr. Lutter adds the scientific context, including genetic findings that may help explain why some people with binge eating or bulimia respond strongly to GLP-1 medications.They cover:How Paige's bulimia began and why standard treatments didn't fully helpWhat “food noise” felt like in her lived experienceWhy GLP-1 medications may affect appetite, reward pathways, and binge urgesHow genetics may help identify who responds to GLP-1sWhy eating disorder treatment needs more precision-focused researchThe risks of using GLP-1 medications in people with restrictive eating disordersWhy stigma keeps many people from discussing this treatment openlyThis conversation explores an emerging area of eating disorder research with hope, caution, and a clear need for larger clinical trials.
I sit down with Harvard psychiatrist Dr. Chris Palmer to dive into his groundbreaking research on how mental disorders are fundamentally metabolic disorders of the brain. We unpack why traditional chemical imbalance theories fall short and explore how everyday lifestyle factors like diet, chronic stress, and substance use directly impact mitochondrial function and neuroplasticity.Dr. Palmer also shares vital insights on cannabis-induced psychosis, building genuine psychological resilience, and supporting loved ones through acute life crises. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or simply looking to optimize your mind, this conversation provides a practical roadmap for reclaiming your brain energy.SHOW HIGHLIGHTS00:00 - Introduction00:34 - Why We Turn to Substances Under Stress03:52 - Cannabis-Induced Psychosis & Schizophrenia Risk06:07 - Defining Mental Illness as a Metabolic Disorder13:03 - How Diet, Sugar, and Processed Foods Impact Brain Function17:08 - Mitochondria, Neuroplasticity, and Hormone Balance29:19 - Rethinking the Chemical Imbalance Model41:20 - Psychosocial Stressors and Transgenerational Trauma51:24 - Building Unshakeable Psychological Resilience56:20 - Men's Suicide Risk and Navigating Mental Crisis1:08:09 - Longevity Science, Microplastics, and the Aging Brain***Tired of feeling like you're never enough? Build your self-worth with help from this free guide: https://training.mantalks.com/self-worthPick up my book, Men's Work: A Practical Guide To Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, And Find Freedom: https://mantalks.com/mens-work-book/Heard about attachment but don't know where to start? Try the FREE Ultimate Guide To AttachmentCheck out some other free resources: How To Quit Porn | Anger Meditation | How To Lead In Your RelationshipBuild brotherhood with a powerful group of like-minded men from around the world. Check out The Alliance. Enjoy the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Podchaser. It helps us get into the ears of new listeners, expand the ManTalks Community, and help others find the tools and training they're looking for. And don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | SpotifyFor more, visit us at ManTalks.com | Facebook | Instagram
Can ketogenic therapy improve symptoms, cognition, and metabolic health in people living with serious mental illness?In this episode of Metabolic Mind, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with Dr. Judy Ford, Juliette Kyner (previously Juliette Ward), and Dr. Shebani Sethi about the first-ever randomized controlled trial of a ketogenic diet intervention in individuals living with schizophrenia spectrum disorder or bipolar I disorder with psychotic features.The conversation explores what made this trial possible, from prepared meals and coaching to the structured support that helped participants stay engaged. It also highlights encouraging four-month findings across metabolic health, cognition, depressive symptoms, and both positive and negative psychiatric symptoms.They discuss:Why this trial is an important step for metabolic psychiatryHow participants adhered to a ketogenic diet with structured supportWhat changed in metabolic health markers like BMI, A1C, and HOMA-IRWhy cognitive improvements were especially meaningfulHow positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and depressive symptoms changed over timeWhat family members noticed as participants re-engaged with daily lifeWhy future studies may need to be longer, larger, and more mechanisticThis trial marks an important step for metabolic psychiatry and points to the need for larger, longer, fully controlled studies that can better clarify how ketogenic interventions may affect metabolic, cognitive, and psychiatric outcomes.
Do GLP-1 medications improve metabolic health as much as they support weight loss? A new observational study in the Annals of Internal Medicine raises an important question about semaglutide, insulin discontinuation, type 2 diabetes, and what meaningful metabolic improvement may require.In this episode of Metabolic Mind, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down a real-world study of more than 9,000 veterans with type 2 diabetes who were using insulin and then added either a GLP-1 receptor agonist, SGLT2 inhibitor, or DPP4 inhibitor. Despite semaglutide's stronger association with weight loss, the study found similar insulin discontinuation rates across all three groups over three years.Dr. Scher covers:Why weight loss and metabolic health improvements may not always move togetherWhat insulin discontinuation can reveal about insulin resistance and beta cell functionWhy semaglutide did not outperform older diabetes medications in this studyThe limitations of observational research and real-world medication dataHow GLP-1 medications and therapeutic carbohydrate reduction may work through complementary mechanismsWhy combining GLP-1s with therapeutic carbohydrate reduction may be an important area for future research and clinical practiceThis conversation takes a closer look at what metabolic health means, and why the path from weight loss to insulin independence may be more complex than the scale alone can show.
You said you were fine, but fine is not a spiritual condition—it's a managed one. Fine means you've stopped expecting anything, stopped reaching for anything, and settled into the low hum of a life that moves without going anywhere. You're not in crisis. You're not walking away from the Lord. You're just less hungry than you used to be, less expectant, less alive. And because nothing is dramatically wrong, you've convinced yourself nothing needs to change. Dr. Chris Palmer joins me for a conversation that names what that condition actually is—and it's not a season. Dr. Palmer is Dean of the Barnett College of Ministry and Theology at Southeastern University and the author of A World Without God (Zondervan), a work of narrative philosophy that takes the reader into Novemberton, an allegorical town in the grip of something it cannot name. What he argues is that the despair overtaking our culture isn't arriving as a manifesto—it's arriving as a mood. Nihilism, as he frames it, is not the dramatic philosophy-class version; it's the quiet, functional, show-up-to-church version—passive surrender dressed as stability, apathy wearing the clothes of peace. We talk about why values are on sale right now, what practical polytheism looks like inside a congregation, how self-centered spirituality masquerades as devotion, and why the only thing durable enough to bear the weight of our emptiness is not our own shoulders. This conversation will not give you a strategy. It will give you a mirror—and what you do with what you see in it is the entire question. Come ready to be honest about what you've been calling fine. Guest Bio Dr. Chris Palmer is Dean of the Barnett College of Ministry and Theology at Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida, where he teaches at the intersection of New Testament studies, philosophy, and cultural theology. He holds a PhD from Bangor University in Wales and is the author of several books, including his latest, A World Without God (Zondervan)—a work of narrative philosophy that examines what happens to meaning, purpose, and the human soul when God is not forgotten so much as he is treated as one option among many. Show Partner SafeSleeve designs a phone case that blocks up to 99% of harmful EMF radiation—so I'm not carrying that kind of exposure next to my body all day. It's sleek, durable, and most importantly, lab-tested by third parties. The results aren't hidden—they're published right on their site. And that matters because many so-called EMF blockers on the market either don't work or can't prove they do. We protect our hearts and minds—why wouldn't we protect our bodies too? Head to safesleevecases.com and use the code WINTODAY10 for 10% off your order. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my book "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
The questions around ketogenic therapy keep getting more layered, and your latest submissions reflect that. In this Metabolic Mailbag episode, Dr. Bret Scher and producer Erica Gerard tackle some of the most common questions about insulin resistance, ketosis, bone health, and a fun rapid-fire round on popular ketogenic products and practices.In this discussion, you'll learn:The difference between pathologic and physiologic insulin resistance and why insulin levels matter mostWhy someone in deep ketosis may fail a glucose tolerance test and how to interpret itHow metabolic health affects how strict your ketogenic approach needs to beWhy some people can stay in ketosis at 75 grams of carbs while others need under 25Why claims about ketogenic diets causing bone loss don't hold up under scrutinyThe role of protein intake, resistance training, and walking in supporting bone densityA rapid-fire round covering MCT oil, electrolytes, caffeine, diet sodas, keto bread, creatine, exogenous ketones, intermittent fasting, and artificial sweetenersThis conversation captures the nuance that ketogenic therapy and metabolic health really call for, while keeping the practical realities of everyday life in view.
What does it look like to put bipolar II disorder into remission and become a voice of hope for others living with serious mental illness? Robyn Dobbins joins Hannah Warren from Metabolic Mind to reflect on how ketogenic therapy transformed her life, and what it was like to see her own story featured in The Cholesterol Code documentary.In this conversation, you'll learn:What it was like for Robyn to see her personal story on the big screenWhy she has always been open about her mental health journey, even at the time of her bipolar II diagnosisHow her psychiatric symptoms showed up before ketogenic therapy, including persistent anger, exhaustion, and the urge to escape her own lifeWhat changed once she began ketogenic therapy and how her day-to-day experience shiftedWhy she continues to advocate for awareness around metabolic therapies for mental illnessHow The Cholesterol Code documentary could expand awareness of ketogenic therapy beyond current circlesWhat inspires Robyn to keep sharing her story and how she hopes it reaches others still sufferingRobyn's openness about her journey is helping break the stigma around serious mental illness and expand awareness of what recovery can look like.
How do you know if you're actually in ketosis? Should you test ketones? And if so, what's the best method: blood, breath, or urine?Dr. Bret Scher breaks down everything you need to know about ketone testing, including when testing matters, which tools are most accurate, and how to interpret your results based on your goals. Whether you're using a ketogenic diet for metabolic health, weight loss, or therapeutic ketosis for mental health and neurological conditions, understanding ketone testing can help you personalize your approach.In this video, you'll learn:Why ketone testing can be a valuable toolWhen ketone levels matter, and when they may notThe differences between urine strips, breath meters, and blood ketone monitorsPros and cons of each testing methodHow often to test and the best times of day to measure ketonesWhy ketone levels naturally fluctuate throughout the dayThe emerging role of continuous ketone monitors (CKMs)How to use ketone data without becoming overwhelmed or obsessiveUltimately, there isn't one "perfect" ketone number for everyone. The value of ketone testing depends on your goals, your health condition, and how you respond to ketosis. The most useful data is the data that helps you make informed decisions and better understand your own metabolism.
Could metabolic therapies become part of the future of cancer care?That question sits at the center of Dr. Bret Scher's conversation with neurologist and researcher Dr. Matthew Phillips, whose recent study explored a metabolic approach in people with glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer.Rather than relying on a single intervention, the study combined a ketogenic diet, intermittent fasting, and repeated five-day fasts alongside standard chemotherapy and radiation. Together, these strategies were designed to lower the Glucose Ketone Index, or GKI, by reducing glucose and increasing ketones.In this conversation, they explore:Why cancer cell metabolism is becoming an important area of researchHow glucose, ketones, and mitochondrial function may influence cancer growthWhy the GKI was a central target in the studyHow fasting and ketogenic therapy were integrated with standard cancer treatmentThe difference between intentional weight loss and cancer cachexiaWhy quality of life deserves as much attention as survivalWhat the study's long-term survivors may teach researchersWhy larger randomized trials are still neededParticipants following the metabolic protocol achieved an average GKI of 1.88, and every participant completed all eight five-day fasts. The metabolic therapy group also had a median survival of 21 months compared with 14 months in the control group, along with a higher rate of survival beyond three years.These results offer a compelling reason to keep studying this approach, particularly in a cancer with such limited treatment options and a difficult prognosis. Since the trial was small and nonrandomized, it can't provide definitive answers, but it does give researchers a strong foundation to build on.
Can a ketogenic diet help improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms?A new meta-analysis published in JAMA Psychiatry examined 50 different keto studies, totaling over 40,000 participants, that included depression and anxiety outcomes. The results of the review demonstrated a modest improvement in depression symptoms across different populations and diagnoses in both controlled and real-world scenarios, and greater symptom improvement was observed in trials that included ketone monitoring. Improvements in anxiety were also observed in most studies, but with less consistency than depressive symptoms.While many of these studies weren't originally designed to treat depression or anxiety, the consistent improvements associated with verified ketosis as well as the larger effect seen in “very low carbohydrate” diets compared to just “low carbohydrate” diets, tell us that ketogenic therapy for depression warrants further investigation. And when we combine the findings with the results of another recent additional study on keto for depression (not included in the analysis), we can't help but wonder how many people could benefit from ketogenic therapy.In this video, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down:What the JAMA Psychiatry paper actually reviewedHow ketosis may support mood and brain functionKey findings from both randomized and non-randomized trialsHow measuring ketosis was associated with better depression improvementsSafety considerations and medication interactions to watch forThis JAMA review highlights growing scientific interest in ketogenic therapy for serious mental illness, driven by early scientific evidence and thousands of individuals worldwide reporting significant improvements in mental health with ketogenic therapy.Looking for more information on ketogenic therapy for depression? Sign up for our newsletter to be the first to be notified when our brand-new Keto for Depression Resource Hub is available!https://www.metabolicmind.org/about-us/newsletter/Expert Featured:Dr. Bret ScherMedical Director, Metabolic Mind and Baszucki Grouphttps://x.com/bschermdResources Mentioned:Ketogenic Diets and Depression and Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysishttps://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2025.3261Blog: A Ketogenic Diet was Associated with improvements in Depression in College Studentshttps://www.metabolicmind.org/resources/news-views/blog/perspectives-in-metabolic-psychiatry/new-research-a-ketogenic-diet-improved-depression-in-college-students/Edinburgh Trial Showing Improvements in Depression Symptoms in Patients Living with Bipolar Disorderhttps://www.metabolicmind.org/trials/featured-post/first-european-trial-shows-promise-of-keto-as-a-new-treatment-for-bipolar/Stanford Study Shows Keto Improves Symptoms of Serious Mental Illnesshttps://www.metabolicmind.org/trials/featured/stanford-study-shows-promise-of-keto/Free CME Clinician Trainings:Are you a clinician who would like to learn more about the science behind these therapies and how to implement them in practice? Earn CME with our growing library of courses from some of the top experts in the field including Dr. Chris Palmer, Dr. Georgia Ede, Dr. Matthew Bernstein and Dr. Bret Scher with more coming soon.Our courses have been made FREE by grants from Baszucki Group, so we can spread these powerful therapies as widely as possible. Earn CME/CNE credits: https://www.metabolicmind.org/for-clinicians/trainings-courses/?utm_medium=organic-social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=cme-ytFollow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/About us:Metabolic Mind is a non-profit initiative of Baszucki Group working to transform the study and treatment of mental disorders by exploring the connection between metabolism and brain health. We leverage the science of metabolic psychiatry and personal stories to offer education, community, and hope to people struggling with mental health challenges and those who care for them.Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.
Do GLP-1 medications like Ozempic reduce physical activity? Preliminary research suggests they might, raising important questions about how exercise should be supported alongside treatment.GLP-1 medications are helping many people achieve meaningful weight loss and metabolic improvements. At the same time, findings presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting showed declines in daily steps and moderate-to-vigorous activity after treatment began. In this video, Dr. Bret Scher examines those results, explores why activity levels may fall, and explains how similar concerns can arise with medications such as statins and antipsychotics.He covers:What the study found about physical activityWhy side effects and rapid weight loss may reduce movementHow muscle loss can affect long-term metabolic healthWhy resistance training and protein intake matterHow clinicians can provide more structured exercise supportThese findings highlight the importance of pairing GLP-1 medications with proactive support for physical activity and muscle preservation. More broadly, they suggest that when a treatment can affect appetite, energy, or body composition, those effects should be monitored and addressed as part of ongoing care.
Could a ketogenic diet and low-dose GLP-1 medications work better together? A new case series suggests they might, while highlighting a more personalized approach to metabolic health.GLP-1 medications have transformed obesity treatment, but they aren't the only tool available. In this interview, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with physician assistant Bill Jensen about a newly published case series exploring the combination of a ketogenic diet and low-dose semaglutide. Together, they discuss how this approach may help preserve lean mass, improve insulin resistance, reduce side effects, and empower patients to take an active role in their health.In this video:Why low-dose GLP-1s may complement a ketogenic dietThe importance of preserving muscle during weight lossWhich patients may benefit most from this approachWhy this case series is hypothesis-generating, not definitiveHow lifestyle and medication can work together to improve metabolic healthThis conversation examines how a more personalized approach to care could improve long-term health outcomes. Rather than asking whether medication or lifestyle is "better," it explores how combining the right tools for the right person may help improve body composition, support metabolic health, and empower patients to play an active role in their care.
We continue our series on Sundays, offering some inspiration and guidance from some of the most brilliant spiritual leaders around the world. Today, hear our fascinating conversation with Dr. Chris Palmer, the Dean of the Barnett College of Ministry and Theology at Southeastern University in Florida. Dr. Chris is also the author of 10 books and has traveled the world searching for the meaning of life, helping guide the next generation of Christian leaders. He examines how faith can help us all in our growing crisis of loneliness and hopelessness, by exploring what the world would be like without God.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We continue our series on Sundays, offering some inspiration and guidance from some of the most brilliant spiritual leaders around the world. Today, hear our fascinating conversation with Dr. Chris Palmer, the Dean of the Barnett College of Ministry and Theology at Southeastern University in Florida. Dr. Chris is also the author of 10 books and has traveled the world searching for the meaning of life, helping guide the next generation of Christian leaders. He examines how faith can help us all in our growing crisis of loneliness and hopelessness, by exploring what the world would be like without God.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We continue our series on Sundays, offering some inspiration and guidance from some of the most brilliant spiritual leaders around the world. Today, hear our fascinating conversation with Dr. Chris Palmer, the Dean of the Barnett College of Ministry and Theology at Southeastern University in Florida. Dr. Chris is also the author of 10 books and has traveled the world searching for the meaning of life, helping guide the next generation of Christian leaders. He examines how faith can help us all in our growing crisis of loneliness and hopelessness, by exploring what the world would be like without God.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What does it take to truly understand and assess cardiovascular risk in modern medicine?Dr. Bret Scher joins Dr. Ford Brewer at the Collaborative Science (CoSci) conference to discuss the recent screening of The Cholesterol Code documentary and the bigger picture of metabolic health, cardiac imaging, and the future of risk assessment.In this conversation, you'll learn:Dr. Ford Brewer's reaction to The Cholesterol Code documentary and what stood out mostWhy metabolism, not just plumbing, drives cardiovascular diseaseHow CT angiogram with AI analysis is becoming the gold standard in cardiac imagingWhat CIMT (Carotid Intima-Media Thickness) measures and where it fits in evaluating riskWhy calcium scores can miss important soft plaqueWhat to look for when seeking a high-quality CIMT scanDr. Brewer's personal story of being diagnosed with manic depression in medical school and how lifestyle and metabolic changes shaped his journeyWhy GLP-1 medications, when used responsibly, can be a useful tool rather than a stand-alone solutionHow the overuse of statins and GLP-1s reflects broader issues in modern medicineThis discussion captures the value of bringing nuanced, individualized thinking into the conversation around cardiovascular risk, metabolic health, and mental wellness.
We continue our series on Sundays, offering some inspiration and guidance from some of the most brilliant spiritual leaders around the world. Today, hear our fascinating conversation with Dr. Chris Palmer, the Dean of the Barnett College of Ministry and Theology at Southeastern University in Florida. Dr. Chris is also the author of 10 books and has traveled the world searching for the meaning of life, helping guide the next generation of Christian leaders. He examines how faith can help us all in our growing crisis of loneliness and hopelessness, by exploring what the world would be like without God.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that can often be put into remission. So why do so many people still struggle to get better?In this discussion, Dr. Bret Scher explores how the environments we create, from our food system to our healthcare system, shape metabolic health in ways that are often overlooked.Using a thought experiment as a starting point, he examines why remission is possible for many people with type 2 diabetes, why that shouldn't be confused with 100% personal responsibility, and what needs to change if we want to improve outcomes at scale.He covers:Why type 2 diabetes remission is possible for many peopleHow ketogenic nutrition and other metabolic therapies can improve insulin resistanceWhy type 1 and type 2 diabetes require fundamentally different approachesHow modern food environments contribute to metabolic dysfunctionThe limitations of decades of conventional nutrition adviceWhy clinician education and public policy matter for metabolic healthHow shifting the conversation from blame to biology can improve patient careGrowing evidence continues to show that metabolic health can be improved through nutrition and lifestyle interventions when people have the right support. Building healthcare systems and food environments that reflect that science could help more people achieve better long-term health.
Dr. Bret Scher began his career practicing conventional cardiology, following the same guidelines taught in medical training. Today, he is Medical Director at Metabolic Mind, as well as The Coalition for Metabolic Health, and one of the leading voices advancing metabolic health, ketogenic therapy, and metabolic psychiatry.What changed?In this special episode, Metabolic Mind producer Erica Gerard turns the tables and interviews Dr. Scher about the experiences, patients, and pivotal moments that challenged his thinking and reshaped his approach to medicine.In this conversation, you'll learn:How a conventionally trained cardiologist became known as the "low-carb cardiologist"The patients who changed the way he thought about nutrition and metabolic healthWhy he believes medicine should treat individuals, not just follow guidelinesWhat drew him from cardiovascular medicine into the emerging field of metabolic psychiatryHow interviewing researchers, clinicians, and patients has influenced his perspective on evidence and clinical careHis hopes for the future of metabolic health and what it could mean for medicineAlong the way, Dr. Scher shares personal stories from his childhood, medical training, career, and family life, offering a rare look at his curiosity, humility, and willingness to challenge his own assumptions that continue to shape his work today.Whether you've followed Dr. Scher's work for years or meeting him for the first time, this conversation offers insight into the journey behind one of the most trusted voices in metabolic medicine.
What questions matter most to people living with serious mental illness when it comes to metabolic interventions?Dr. Dina Farran and Dr. Toby Pillinger from King's College London set out to answer exactly that through a Priority Setting Partnership, an extensive collaborative process bringing together people with lived experience, family members, caregivers, clinicians, and researchers to identify the top research priorities in metabolic psychiatry.Their findings reveal a powerful shift in how patients and clinicians think about mental illness, and what the future of treatment may look like.In this conversation, you'll learn:What a Priority Setting Partnership is and why it matters for psychiatric researchHow over 450 participants and 1,400 submissions were narrowed down to a top 10 listWhy 8 of the top 10 priorities focused on mental health outcomes, not just physical healthWhy ketogenic diets ranked as the number one research priorityHow GLP-1 medications, exercise, gut health, and nutrient deficiencies entered the conversationWhy patients and caregivers may have a more integrated view of mental illness than the research fieldWhat this roadmap means for the future of metabolic psychiatry research and careThis interview captures a meaningful turning point in how the field of metabolic psychiatry is beginning to align with what truly matters to the people it serves.Interested in learning more about metabolic psychiatry? Check out our blog: What is Metabolic Psychiatry?
A recent study made headlines for claiming a ketogenic diet may worsen fatty liver disease and raise triglycerides. But when you take a closer look at the research, it's clear that the conclusions are far less supported than the coverage suggests.To clear things up, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down what the study actually found, where the methodology falls short, and what the broader body of research has to say about ketogenic therapy and liver health.In this discussion, you'll learn:What the study examined and how the data was collectedWhy the lack of ketone measurement makes it impossible to confirm anyone was actually in ketosisHow reverse causality may explain the findings entirelyWhat baseline differences in BMI and adiposity reveal about the study populationWhy cross-sectional observational studies sit lower on the evidence hierarchy than RCTsWhat a meta-analysis of 62 randomized controlled trials shows about ketogenic diets and triglyceridesWhat a 12-week supervised intervention revealed about ketogenic therapy and fatty liver reductionWhy higher-quality controlled trial evidence should take precedence over headline-grabbing observational studiesFor clinicians, researchers, and anyone navigating conflicting headlines about ketogenic therapy, this conversation is a reminder that the quality of evidence matters as much as the findings themselves.
In this episode, George is joined by Chris Palmer, NBA and WNBA skills development coach and founder of Pure Performance Basketball, to discuss how coaches can design practice environments that truly transfer to games. Chris explains how he uses film, data, and representative learning design to create individualized training sessions that develop better decision-makers, not just better technicians. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Chris Palmer and Pure Performance Basketball 01:00 – Using Film and Data to Guide Player Development 02:00 – Designing Representative Learning Environments 03:30 – Creating Randomness Through Constraints and Decision-Making 05:30 – Building Variability Into Practice Design 06:00 – Adjusting Constraints for NBA vs. Youth Players 09:00 – Teaching Better Shot Selection and Breaking Bad Habits 10:00 – Why Player Development Coaches Must Understand Team Basketball 12:00 – Converting Offensive Advantages More Effectively 14:30 – Teaching Decision-Making in Individual Workouts 16:30 – Coaching Through Mistakes and Eliminating Black-and-White Thinking 19:00 – Individualizing Constraints for Different Players 22:00 – Helping Players Discover Multiple Finishing Solutions 24:00 – Encouraging Exploration Instead of Repetition 25:00 – Transformative Tip Level up your coaching with our Amazon Best Selling Book: https://amzn.to/3vO1Tc7 Access tons more of evidence-based coaching resources: https://transformingbball.com/products/ Links: Website: http://transformingbball.app/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/transformbball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformingbasketball/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transformingbasketball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/transformingbasketball/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@transforming.basketball
Is a plant-based diet the best for supporting metabolic health? Cardiologist Dr. Jaimela Dulaney spent years practicing plant-based nutrition before her own experience with insulin resistance, blood sugar swings, and endurance running led her to rethink what personalized nutrition can look like.In this episode, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with Dr. Dulaney about what changed her perspective, both personally and professionally.They cover:How CGMs helped reveal unexpected blood sugar patternsWhy insulin resistance can show up even in active, normal-weight individualsHow Dr. Dulaney thinks about LDL cholesterol in the context of metabolic healthWhy low-carb and ketogenic diets may help some people improve energy, recovery, and blood sugar stabilityWhy there may not be one “best diet” for every patientThis conversation highlights the importance of listening to patients, tracking meaningful lab trends, and staying open to new evidence when personal experience and clinical outcomes begin to tell a different story.
Send us Fan MailEddie Rodriguez is a returning guest on our show! Check out his first appearance on episode 955 of Boundless Body Radio!Eddie Rodriguez is the founder and host of BrainHeal(th), an educational YouTube channel dedicated to sharing what he and his family have learned and are learning in caregiving for his father, diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease.Eddie is an advocate for metabolic neurology, metabolic psychiatry, and cognitive health strategies, like the Bredesen Protocol, for the prevention and treatment of neurological and psychiatric disorders. With extensive experience in commercial financing, corporate- and sales-process consulting, and leadership development, he combines his professional expertise with a passion for transforming how mental and neurological conditions are framed and treated going forward.He is also the Board President of Metabolic Collective, a new 501(c)(3) whose mission is to accelerate the real-world adoption of metabolic therapies (especially ketogenic protocols) for serious mental illness and neurological disorders by building a global, peer-led grassroots movement.Find Eddie at-YT- @BrainHeal_th_https://metaboliccollective.org/Find Boundless Body at-myboundlessbody.comBook a session with us here!
Metabolic health may be the foundation of a healthy brain, and a growing community of researchers, clinicians, and educators is working to bring that message into mainstream medicine.In this interview, Dr. Bret Scher talks with Dr. Dom D'Agostino at the Citizen Science Initiative (CoSci) conference to discuss everything from the recent screening of The Cholesterol Code documentary to the rise of N-of-1 research, the future of metabolic psychiatry, and the urgent need for nutrition education in medical schools.In this conversation, you'll learn:Dr. D'Agostino's reaction to The Cholesterol Code documentary and what stood out mostHow N-of-1 citizen science is reshaping the way we think about metabolic healthWhy metabolic health may be a stronger predictor of cardiovascular outcomes than LDL aloneHow nutrition education made its way into the USF College of Medicine curriculumWhat the latest research is revealing about ketogenic metabolic therapy and cancer, brain health, and immune functionWhy metabolic psychiatry is one of the most exciting emerging fields in medicineHow exogenous ketones and ketogenic diets fit into clinical practice and ongoing researchThis discussion offers a thoughtful look at where metabolic medicine is headed and why prioritizing whole-body health is becoming central to supporting the brain.
New results from first-of-its-kind randomized controlled trial on a ketogenic diet for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder with psychosis offer important insights into metabolic psychiatry and mental health treatment.In this interview, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with Dr. Julie Milder to walk through the study results, recently published in Schizophrenia Bulletin. As the first RCT in psychosis-spectrum conditions to publish in the peer-reviewed literature, it's an important step toward understanding how metabolic interventions may play a role in serious mental illness.Key insights from the study:In the 1-month randomized portion of the trial, the ketogenic group showed significant improvements in metabolic health markers compared to diet-as-usualPsychiatric symptoms trended toward improvement, but were not statistically significant at 1 monthParticipants who opted into the ketogenic extension part of the study (4 total months of keto), saw improvements in depression, cognition, and positive and negative symptoms.In this video, Dr. Milder also breaks down important additional context about the limitations of the study, including the length of the randomized portion of the trial and the variance in dietary support between the two diet groups.This study adds to growing evidence linking metabolic health and psychiatric conditions and explores whether ketogenic therapy may play a role in addressing underlying mechanisms.
For decades, we've thought about conditions like Alzheimer's disease, depression, and Parkinson's disease as disorders of the brain. But what if that's only part of the story? Emerging science is revealing that many of the factors driving cognitive decline, mental illness, and neurodegenerative disease may begin far outside the brain itself—in our metabolism, our immune system, our gut microbiome, our hormones, and even the environment we're exposed to every day. As part of our summer series, we're revisiting some of the most important conversations we've had on the topic of brain health. In this special compilation episode, you'll hear from leading experts Dr. Richard Isaacson, Dr. Chris Palmer, and Drs. Ray Dorsey and Michael Okun as they explore the new science of brain health and what it means for preventing cognitive decline, supporting mental health, and protecting our brains as we age. What I find most encouraging about this research is that it challenges the idea that brain decline is simply an inevitable part of aging. Instead, it suggests that many of the biggest drivers of brain health are things we can influence through the choices we make, the environments we create, and the ways we care for our bodies long before symptoms ever appear. View Show Notes From This Episode Sign up for Dr. Hyman's Brainshaping Academy to learn how to nourish the biological systems that support your mental, emotional, and cognitive health https://drhyman.com/products/brainshaping?utm_source=dr_hyman_show&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=may_27&utm_content=link Get Free Weekly Health Tips from Dr. Hyman https://drhyman.com/pages/picks?utm_campaign=shownotes&utm_medium=banner&utm_source=podcast Sign Up for Dr. Hyman's Weekly Longevity Journal https://drhyman.com/pages/longevity?utm_campaign=shownotes&utm_medium=banner&utm_source=podcast Join the 10-Day Detox to Reset Your Health https://drhyman.com/pages/10-day-detox Join the Hyman Hive for Expert Support and Real Results https://drhyman.com/pages/hyman-hive This episode is brought to you by Timeline, Sunlighten, Seed, BIOptimzers, Paleovalley, and Pique. Support healthy aging and get 20% off at timeline.com/drhyman with code HYMAN. Discover why so many people are using sunlighten.com and save up to $2,100 today and free shipping with code HYMAN. Make your microbiome part of your daily routine with seed.com/hyman and save 25% with code 25HYMAN. Go to bioptimizers.com/hyman and use code HYMAN to save 15% off your order, plus get a free gift. Shop nutrient-rich foods and supplements at paleovalley.com/hyman and save 15% off your first order. Elevate your daily wellness ritual at piquelife.com/hyman and enjoy 15% off for life plus free gift (0:00) Understanding brain dysfunction, inflammation, and lifestyle interventions (0:21) Heavy metals, toxins, and Parkinson's disease (3:30) Introduction to the summer series on brain health (4:02) The MIND diet, precision nutrition, and brain-healthy fats (9:06) Vitamins, supplements, and caloric intake for cognitive health (11:23) Vitamin D, B complex, and reversing mild cognitive impairment (14:05) Additional supplements and intensive lifestyle interventions (17:18) Importance of magnesium and metabolic health (18:24) Multimodal treatments, hormone replacement therapy, and individualized care (26:49) Biopsychosocial factors, stress, and the gut-brain connection (32:30) Inflammation, energy dysregulation, and metabolism in brain health (42:33) Parkinson's disease: causes, history, and environmental factors (46:02) Leaky brain, blood-brain barrier, and Parkinson's as a whole-body disease (49:00) Closing remarks, disclaimer, and gratitude to sponsors
New evidence from the first-ever RCT shows ketogenic therapy can rapidly improve metabolic health in schizophrenia-spectrum and bipolar I disorders, and shows early signals of psychiatric improvement.In this video, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down this newly published study led by Dr. Judith Ford at UCSF: the first randomized controlled trial with peer-reviewed results investigating ketogenic therapy in people with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders and bipolar-1 disorder with psychotic features.You'll learn:How the study was designed (a 1-month randomized phase plus an optional 3-4 month single-arm extension)What happened in the first 30 days (clear improvements in metabolic markers; psychiatric outcomes showed trends that did not reach statistical significance in the randomized portion)What improved over longer follow-up in the extension phase (encouraging changes in metabolic health, cognition, and psychiatric measures)Why this matters for patients and families today, and what future, longer controlled trials need to confirmPublished in Schizophrenia Bulletin and funded by the NIMH and Baszucki Group, this study adds to the growing literature on the potential benefit of ketogenic therapy for psychiatric disorders.These results indicate the need for larger, extended randomized controlled trials to test the safety and efficacy of ketogenic therapy in patients living with serious mental illness.
Why are seed oils suddenly everywhere in nutrition debates? What is anhedonia? Is the dawn phenomenon something to worry about? And how can you tell the difference between nutritional ketosis and ketoacidosis?In this Metabolic Mailbag episode, Dr. Bret Scher and producer Erica Gerard answer some of the most common questions from our community about ketogenic therapy, mental health, metabolism, and nutrition science.Topics discussed include:Why seed oils have become such a controversial topic and what the evidence actually showsWhether seed oils deserve their negative reputationWhat anhedonia is and why it can be one of the most challenging symptoms in mental health conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophreniaEmerging research on ketogenic therapy and improvements in anhedoniaWhy debates between plant-based and ketogenic diets often miss the bigger pictureThe limitations of observational nutrition researchWhy there may not be one “best” diet for everyoneWhat the dawn phenomenon is and why it may mean different things for people eating high-carb versus ketogenic dietsThe difference between nutritional ketosis and diabetic ketoacidosisWhether there is a specific “therapeutic” ketone level for brain health and mental health interventionsThroughout the conversation, Dr. Scher emphasizes an important theme: context matters. The same biomarker, food, or dietary approach can have very different implications depending on an individual's health status, goals, and metabolic health.Whether you're exploring ketogenic therapy for mental health, trying to better understand ketone levels, or simply looking for evidence-based answers to common nutrition questions, this episode offers practical insights and helpful nuance.
A newly published study called NATURE-CT is generating significant attention in the cardiovascular and ketogenic communities, but some of the conclusions being drawn online don't hold up to scientific scrutiny. Dr. Bret Scher walks through what the study actually shows, what it doesn't, and why comparisons being made to ketogenic therapy are scientifically misleading.In this discussion, you'll learn:What the NATURE-CT study examined and what its findings mean for coronary plaque progressionWhy the average LDL of 111 mg/dL still showed substantial plaque progressionWhat this data may suggest about looking beyond LDL as the sole driver of coronary diseaseWhy comparisons being made between NATURE-CT and KETO-CTA are scientifically flawedWhy the original KETO-CTA manuscript was retracted and what that means for current claimsHow baseline coronary artery calcium scores influence valid scientific comparisonsWhy findings in lean mass hyper-responders cannot be extrapolated to all forms of ketogenic therapyHow metabolic health, not just LDL, may be a critical factor in understanding cardiovascular riskThis conversation underscores the importance of evaluating studies on their actual design and findings, rather than the conclusions being layered on top of them. For clinicians, researchers, and anyone navigating the cardiovascular and ketogenic conversation, the precision of the science matters.
What should you eat on keto? A ketogenic diet shifts your body from burning carbs to burning fat and ketones, and it can be a powerful tool for supporting metabolic health as well as mental health. But knowing what to eat, what to avoid, and how to get started makes all the difference.Here, Dr. Bret Scher walks you through the essentials:The best proteins, fats, and low-carb vegetables for ketoFoods that can kick you out of ketosisA full sample day of meals with net carb countsSmart snack options and lifestyle factors that affect ketosisWhether you're new to a ketogenic diet or exploring it as part of a broader ketogenic therapy plan, the right foundation can make a significant difference in outcomes.Want to dive deeper into the specifics of a high-quality ketogenic diet? Check out our blog to learn more: Understanding the Well-Formulated Ketogenic Diet
David Baszucki - founder and CEO of Roblox - sits down with his son Matthew for the first time on a podcast together. They walk through Matthew's five-year journey with severe, treatment-resistant bipolar I disorder: the first manic episode in 2016, multiple hospitalisations, the dozens of medications, the 2017 incident in Los Angeles when David flew down on a rescue mission to find Matt homeless on the streets, and the discovery by Matthew's mother Jan of ketogenic therapy that sent Matt's symptoms into remission. David and Matthew talk about how their family journey led to the establishment of the rapidly growing field of metabolic psychiatry their family now funds, and the daily metabolic practices both father and son use today.
The Cholesterol Code documentary is challenging long-held assumptions about LDL cholesterol, ketogenic diets, and what really matters for cardiovascular risk.In this interview, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with Dr. Eric Westman, internist and low-carb researcher, to discuss the film's impact and what it could mean for the future of clinical practice.From Dave Feldman's citizen science journey to the growing body of evidence on type 2 diabetes reversal, this discussion explores why the conversation around cholesterol is finally starting to shift.You'll learn:What stood out most about The Cholesterol Code documentaryWhy elevated LDL on a ketogenic diet may not carry the risk many assumeHow citizen science is reshaping nutrition and metabolic health researchWhy type 2 diabetes reversal deserves far more clinical attention than it getsHow GLP-1 medications and lifestyle interventions can work together responsiblyWhy the future of medicine depends on diet-focused research, not just drug trialsFor physicians, patients, and anyone interested in metabolic health, this conversation captures a pivotal moment in how the medical community is beginning to rethink cardiovascular risk, ketogenic therapy, and the power of lifestyle change.
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Can ketogenic therapy help atrial fibrillation? What should you make of the KETO-CTA study? And do higher ketones always mean better results?In this Metabolic Mailbag episode, Dr. Bret Scher answers audience questions about cardiovascular health, ketosis, ketone levels, and how to personalize a ketogenic approach based on your goals and metabolic health. From AFib concerns to cholesterol controversies and troubleshooting low ketone readings, this episode tackles some of the most common questions in the keto community.In this episode, we cover:Ketogenic therapy and atrial fibrillation (AFib)The latest update on the KETO-CTA studyLDL cholesterol, plaque, and cardiovascular riskWhy ketone levels don't tell the whole storyRaising ketones without sacrificing energy or muscleCarbohydrate intake and metabolic flexibilityFasting, protein, and thyroid considerationsMCT oil, exogenous ketones, and other strategies to increase ketosisOne of the biggest takeaways: context matters. Whether you're evaluating cholesterol, ketone levels, or cardiovascular risk, there is rarely a one-size-fits-all answer. Understanding your goals, metabolic health, and individual response is often more important than chasing a specific number.
Are eggs bad for you because they may raise cholesterol?It's one of the most common nutrition questions in cardiology, and one of the most misunderstood. The reality is that raising cholesterol and harming your health aren't always the same thing, and when it comes to eggs, the data tells a much more nuanced and reassuring story than most people have been led to believe.In this conversation, Dr. Bret Scher walks through the science of eggs, cholesterol, and cardiovascular risk, cutting through decades of nutritional confusion to help you understand what it actually means for your individual dietary choices.You'll learn:Why the original "eggs cause heart disease" logic doesn't hold up under scientific scrutinyWhat happens to LDL and HDL when most people eat whole eggsWho the "egg hyper responders" are and what genetics has to do with itWhy hazard ratios in observational egg studies are often clinically unhelpfulWhat the American Heart Association now says about eggs and cardiovascular riskWhy eggs are one of the most nutrient dense whole foods availableHow to think about egg quality, quantity, and individual responseThe takeaway: eggs can be part of a healthy whole foods dietary pattern for most people. Context, metabolic health, and the totality of your diet often matter far more than any single food.
Can ketogenic therapy challenge mainstream thinking on cholesterol, diabetes, and evidence-based medicine? At the CoSci conference, Dr. Ken Berry shares his reaction to The Cholesterol Code documentary and explains why more clinicians are questioning long-standing assumptions about metabolic health, LDL cholesterol, and the treatment of chronic disease.In this conversation, Dr. Berry discusses the growing tension between clinical guidelines, pharmaceutical influence, and real-world patient outcomes, while making the case for curiosity, individualized care, and the power of “citizen science” in medicine.In this episode, we cover:Dr. Ken Berry's reaction to The Cholesterol Code documentaryWhy ketogenic therapy challenges conventional risk-benefit analysisThe role of anecdotal evidence and N=1 experimentationPharmaceutical influence on clinical guidelinesWhy many diabetes patients feel stuck despite following standard adviceThe launch of the American Diabetes SocietyType 2 diabetes remission and low-carbohydrate nutritionWhy doctors need to stay curious and continue learningOne of the biggest themes throughout this conversation is that medicine works best when clinicians and patients stay open-minded, ask better questions, and focus on addressing root causes as opposed to just managing symptoms or lab numbers.
Protein recommendations have changed and not everyone is happy about it. Here's what the new federal protein guidelines actually mean for your health, and why the pushback is missing the point.A recent PBS article argued that doubling the current protein guidelines would push people toward junk food and processed products. But as a cardiologist, Dr. Bret Scher explains why that concern, while understandable, is misplaced. The real issue isn't the target. It's the message around how to hit it.In this discussion, you'll learn:Why the original 0.8g/kg recommendation was never designed for optimal metabolic healthWhat research shows about protein intake in the range of 1.2 to 1.6g/kgHow higher protein supports satiety, body composition, and glucose controlWhy certain groups like teenagers, athletes, and older adults need even moreHow plant vs. animal protein sources differ in bioavailability and practicalityWhy whole food sources like eggs, fish, meat, and legumes are the answer, not protein bars and packaged productsGetting more protein doesn't mean reaching for a bar or a wrapper. It means eating real food that your body knows how to use. The old 0.8g recommendation was designed to prevent decline, not to support metabolic thriving.
A new Alzheimer's study linked omega-3 fish oil (EPA & DHA) supplement use to faster cognitive decline, but the real story is far more nuanced than the headlines suggest.In this discussion, cardiologist Dr. Bret Scher breaks down the study and explains why the quality, freshness, and source of omega-3s may matter more than most people realize.The study used data from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) and found that omega-3 supplement users experienced greater cognitive decline over five years compared to non-users. But the details matter:The study did not assess supplement quality, oxidation, dosage, or dietary habitsOxidized fish oil may behave very differently from high-quality DHA and EPAWhole food omega-3 sources like salmon, sardines, and mackerel consistently show different outcomes in researchLifestyle factors like sleep, exercise, stress, and metabolic health remain critical for brain healthOne of the biggest takeaways: supplements are not interchangeable with whole foods. And no supplement can replace the foundation of metabolic health, including nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, and social connection.
After losing his brother to suicide despite being in psychiatric care, entrepreneur Kristian Ranta began asking difficult questions: Why do so many people struggle despite treatment? What if mental health care is overlooking key drivers of recovery?In this conversation, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with Kristian Ranta, founder of Meru Health, to explore a model that approaches mental health care differently by combining psychiatry, therapy, nutrition, metabolic health, sleep, exercise, coaching, and data-driven care.They discuss:Why nutrition and metabolic health are often overlooked in psychiatryThe connection between physical and mental healthWhy “treatment-resistant” may not tell the whole storyHow comprehensive lab testing can uncover hidden contributors to symptomsThe role of ketogenic and low-carbohydrate interventions in mental health careWearables, biofeedback, and personalized treatment approachesOutcome-based care and the future of psychiatric treatmentHow virtual care can expand access to underserved communitiesThis conversation highlights a growing movement toward whole-person mental health care, one that seeks to go beyond symptoms and understand the underlying factors that may be contributing to them.
Willy sat down with Dr. Chris Palmer, Harvard psychiatrist, researcher, and author of Brain Energy. Dr. Palmer has become one of the leading voices exploring the connection between metabolism, nutrition, and mental health, challenging decades of conventional thinking about psychiatric disorders. He and Willy discussed why mental illnesses may actually be metabolic disorders affecting the brain, the science behind ketogenic therapies and psychiatric recovery, and how lifestyle, stress, sleep, and nutrition can dramatically impact brain health. They also explored what this emerging research could mean for the future treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us Fan MailChristy Kriese is a woman of profound faith, with her love for Jesus serving as the guiding force in every aspect of her life. Family occupies the central place in her world; she is married to her high school sweetheart, the love of her life, and together they have shared 32 years, with nearly 28 of those as a married couple.In her view, love, strength, and purpose all emanate from the nurturing environment of home. She values the creation of a warm and peaceful life, enriched by faith, resilience, and meaningful connections. Her health journey is a significant chapter in her story, marked by her adoption of a carnivore lifestyle that facilitated healing in unexpected ways—physically, mentally, and emotionally.This path, driven by simplicity, nourishment, and discipline, has restored her balance and strengthened her from within. As a result, she has alleviated a host of ailments and mental health challenges. For her, this lifestyle has transcended mere dietary choices; it has become a testimony of restoration and an expression of her trust in God regarding her body and well-being.She champions natural healing, personal growth, and the importance of staying anchored in what truly matters. Whether she is caring for her family, deepening her faith, or pursuing continuous learning and self-improvement, she strives to live with purpose and gratitude.Find Christy at-TW- @CarnivoreChristyhttps://metaboliccollective.org/FB- Metabolic Collective PageFind Boundless Body at-myboundlessbody.comBook a session with us here!