Podcast appearances and mentions of Chris Palmer

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.

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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.

What if we've been thinking about mental illness all wrong? Harvard psychiatrist Dr. Chris Palmer argues that conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia may be rooted in metabolic dysfunction, not just genetics or trauma. Drawing on decades of clinical research, he explains which chemical additives may be harming our brains, why ketogenic diets are showing remarkable promise for severe mental illness, and why recovery is about far more than willpower. Chris also opens up to Jay about the deeply personal story of his mother that inspired him to pursue psychiatry, and why, despite the growing mental health crisis, he remains genuinely hopeful for the next generation. In this episode you'll learn: How to Recognize the Connection Between Diet & Mental Health  How to Notice Warning Signs of Metabolic Dysfunction  How to Support Loved Ones Through a Mental Health Crisis   How to Become More Resilient with Self-Care   How to Turn Personal Pain Into Purpose  How to Use Fasting & Ketogenic Diets Safely  How to Talk to Kids About Nutrition & Brain Health  Healing rarely comes from one single fix. Instead it comes from understanding the whole person: body, brain, and everything we feed both. Sometimes the most radical form of self-love is simply asking what's going into your body, and why?  With Love and Gratitude, Jay Shetty JAY'S DAILY WISDOM DELIVERED STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX Join 900,000+ readers discovering how small daily shifts create big life change with my free newsletter. Subscribe https://news.jayshetty.me/subscribe   Check out our Apple subscription to unlock bonus content of On Purpose! https://lnk.to/JayShettyPodcast  What We Discuss: 00:00 Intro 00:22 The Chronic Disease Epidemic 01:54 The Link Between Mental Health and Diet  05:17 What Metabolism Really Means  07:57 The Shocking Chemicals Added to Food 09:55 Why Is The Food System In America So Harmful?  14:45 The Impact of Ultra Processed Foods on Mental Health    16:29 Why Your Brain Actually Needs Certain Foods  17:21 Brain Fog, Depression, Anxiety & Burnout 18:46 Building Mental Resilience  21:48 Self Care Will Improve Your Brain Functioning 23:57 The “Make America Healthy Again” Movement  25:25 The Next Era of Healthcare in America  27:45 A Healthy vs Unhealthy Metabolism  28:30 Warning Signs From Your Metabolism   29:13 93% of Americans Have Abnormal Biomarkers  30:00 6 Steps For Healing Your Metabolism  31:11 The Truth About Alcohol, Weed & Vaping  35:46 Exercise Doesn't Have to Be Extreme to be Effective  36:30 Stop Looking at Screens All Day! 37:10 Why No Single Diet Works for Everyone 38:45 The Power of Eating More Whole Foods  39:45 Do You Know What Your Body Needs?   40:20 What Are Nutrient Dense Foods?  41:17 Why Some People Are Metabolically Compromised  42:22 Dietary Intervention 44:00 The Ancient Power of Fasting 46:17 Why Bipolar Diagnoses Are Rising 50:08 When Medication Isn't Enough 51:24 How a Ketogenic Diet Can Impact Bipolar Disorder 53:06 The History of The Ketogenic Diet (It's Not What You Think)  54:50 How The Ketogenic Diet Can Stop Seizures  56:20 The Power of Healing  57:47 The Unexpected Grief of Getting Better 59:05 A Life Dedicated to Psychiatry   1:04:15 Keeping a Healthy Dose of Skepticism  1:05:30 Rethinking New Treatments  1:06:55 Advice for Concerned Parents 1:07:31 What Are Epigenetics?  1:11:23 The Worst Chemicals For Brain Health  1:13:30 This Is An Ethics Issue… 1:14:09 Which Chemicals Cause Generational Anxiety?  1:18:20 Dr. Chris Palmer on Final Five Episode Resources: Read | Brain Energy  Website | https://www.chrispalmermd.com/  YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisPalmerMD  Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/ChrisPalmerMD/  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/chrispalmermd/  X | https://x.com/ChrisPalmerMD/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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.

Anorexia nervosa has one of the highest mortality rates of any psychiatric illness, yet effective biological treatments remain limited. For many people living with the condition, even after successful weight normalization, persistent psychological symptoms, including obsessive thoughts about food, shape, and weight, continue to drive relapse.In this conversation, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with Dr. Guido Frank, Professor of Psychiatry at UC San Diego with over 25 years of experience in eating disorder treatment, to discuss results from the first-ever clinical trial of ketogenic therapy in anorexia nervosa.This 14-week supervised feasibility trial enrolled 22 individuals with weight-normalized anorexia nervosa. Among the 18 study completers:✅ 72% scored in the recovered range on eating disorder assessments, no longer meeting the criteria for an anorexia nervosa diagnosis✅ 100% of study completers saw improvements in depression symptoms, with 72% scoring within the normal range.✅ Participants did not experience significant weight change throughout the studyIn this conversation, Dr. Frank also discusses:What led a self-described skeptic to investigate ketogenic therapy for anorexia nervosaHow the study was structured, who it enrolled, and what the weekly supervision looked likeWhat participants experienced as symptoms improved, including reports of mental clarity and reliefHow weight remained stable throughout the ketogenic interventionThe pushback from colleagues and how to engage with the skepticismWhat comes next, including ongoing brain imaging research and plans for a randomized controlled trialEarly observations in bulimia nervosa and what they may suggest about metabolic factors in eating disordersThis trial demonstrated that ketogenic therapy is well tolerated by this population. Larger, controlled studies are needed to better evaluate efficacy.This intervention was conducted under close supervision by a licensed eating disorder specialist, with weekly check-ins, ketone monitoring, and regular psychiatric assessments. Anyone interested in exploring this approach should do so under close medical supervision and in partnership with their care team. If you or someone you care for is living with anorexia nervosa, please speak with your healthcare provider before making any changes.

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

Lower triglycerides, lower remnant cholesterol, lower ApoB. Zero change in coronary artery plaque. A new clinical trial is forcing a bigger conversation about how we treat cardiovascular disease.The drug was Olezarsen, an APOC3 inhibitor. The blood work looked impressive. The heart scans did not. So why would lowering well-established cardiovascular risk factors fail to move the needle on plaque? Dr. Bret Scher argues there's a critical difference between what we want to fix and how we go about fixing it. Lowering a number with a drug is not the same as addressing the underlying metabolic dysfunction that caused that number to be high in the first place.In this video, you'll learn:What the Olezarsen trial actually showed and why the results matterWhy elevated triglycerides often signal deeper metabolic dysfunction and insulin resistanceHow this same drug-first thinking plays out in type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and weight managementWhy narrowing our focus to "fix the number" can keep us from healing the whole systemHow metabolic medicine reframes the conversation around root causesThis isn't an argument against medication. Responsible drug use has an important place in patient care. But the best outcomes come when we ask why a number is abnormal in the first place and what combination of lifestyle changes and targeted treatments will actually address it.

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! 

Could ketogenic therapy help people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders engage more successfully with CBT? A new conceptual framework explores this powerful adjunctive approach.CBTp is considered a gold-standard treatment for schizophrenia spectrum disorders, but many patients struggle to initiate, participate in, and complete it. Cognitive deficits, sleep disturbances, low distress tolerance, and ongoing psychotic symptoms can all stand in the way. In this conversation, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with licensed clinical social worker Nicole Laurent to discuss her recently published paper in Frontiers in Psychology, exploring how ketogenic metabolic therapy could help bridge that gap.In this conversation, you'll learn:Why CBTp is so cognitively demanding and where patients tend to struggleHow ketogenic therapy may reduce key barriers like sleep issues, distress tolerance, and cognitive impairmentWhat a conceptual analysis paper is and why it matters for shaping future researchHow clinicians and researchers can begin integrating these ideas into practiceWhether this framework could extend to CBT for depression, OCD, and anxietyThis discussion opens the door to thinking about ketogenic therapy not only as a direct treatment for psychiatric symptoms, but as a powerful adjunctive tool that could help patients engage more fully with the rest of their care.

How many carbs should you eat on a ketogenic diet? Do ketone levels matter? And why do cravings hit so hard? Is Dairy recommended?In this Metabolic Mailbag episode, registered dietitian and medical student Temple Stewart breaks down some of the most common challenges people face when starting and maintaining a ketogenic diet, especially for PCOS (PMOS), metabolic health, and long-term sustainability.Temple brings a unique perspective to this conversation, combining clinical nutrition experience with current medical training and a deep focus on women's metabolic health. Her approach is practical, individualized, and grounded in helping people build strategies they can realistically sustain over the long term.In this episode, we cover:Ketogenic therapy and the menstrual cycleCravings and the “sugar dragon”PCOS and therapeutic ketone levelsDairy, protein, and hungerVegetarian keto challengesCGMs and ketone testingHow to personalize a ketogenic approach long termOne of the biggest takeaways: successful ketogenic therapy is about understanding your own metabolism, building sustainable habits, and learning which strategies help you feel your best over time.

Kristina Cook shares how lifelong anxiety and postpartum depression, combined with her daughter Genevieve's escalating, unpredictable mood instability, rage, suicidality, and mania, pushed their family into crisis despite years of therapy, medications, and an 11-year-old's 16-week hospital in-treatment stay with a discharge plan involving notifying police. After an RFK Jr. press conference led her to Casey and Calley Means' message in Good Energy, Kristina removed ultra-processed foods and refined ingredients and saw rapid improvements in sleep, pain, and her daughter's behavior. Later, after hearing Dr. Chris Palmer describe ketogenic therapy for severe mental illness, Kristina and her daughter transitioned to keto, endured a brief detox period, and then experienced dramatic mental clarity; Genevieve reached remission and came off medication, and Kristina also saw major weight and anxiety relief. Kristina now studies nutrition, works with the Metabolic Collective, and advocates for accessible metabolic therapies for families. Good Energy (book by Casey Means & Callie Means)  metaboliccollective.org  Metabolic Mind — https://www.metabolicmind.org/ Kristina on X (Twitter): @KristinaCook https://x.com/KristinaCo9561 The Better Humans Project — Kristina's Instagram and Facebook pages  https://www.instagram.com/thebetterhumansproject?igsh=MTM4YTkyZ3duejdjbw==

A recent report highlighted a surprising trend: individuals using GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy may be facing even more social stigma than those who remain overweight. And while neither deserves any stigma at all, it raises an important question about how we judge health choices in modern medicine.In this conversation, Dr. Bret Scher reflects on whether his own critiques of GLP-1 medications stem from bias against the individuals using them. His conclusion is clear: the issue is not the patient, but the system surrounding care.While GLP-1 receptor agonists can be powerful tools for weight loss and metabolic improvement, Dr. Scher emphasizes a deeper concern: the growing tendency toward a “drug-first” model that may overlook foundational lifestyle and metabolic interventions such as nutrition quality, protein intake, resistance training, and long-term behavior change.Key themes discussed:The stigma patients face regardless of whether they lose weight or notThe difference between criticizing a treatment and blaming the patientConcerns about overprescribing without adequate lifestyle supportWhat happens when medications are stopped (and weight is regained)The importance of metabolic health beyond the scaleThis conversation also highlights the complexity of long-term care. While some individuals may benefit significantly from GLP-1 medications, sustainable metabolic health ideally integrates medical tools with lifestyle-based strategies that support long-term resilience.

What happens when a culture loses belief in God?In this deep and surprisingly funny conversation, Dr. Chris Palmer joins Dr. T. Michael W. Halcomb to discuss nihilism, modern despair, AI, atheism, church hurt, faith, science, memes, Dostoevsky, Nietzsche, and why Christianity still matters in a collapsing culture.Dr. Palmer's new book A World Without God explores what happens when society abandons transcendence and attempts to construct meaning without God. Along the way, this conversation tackles:• Why modern culture feels empty• The psychological consequences of nihilism• Why faith and science “play by different rules”• Church hurt and hypocrisy• Dostoevsky vs Nietzsche• AI, memes, absurdism & modern despair• Why beauty still points people toward God• Whether Christianity is essential for human flourishingThis episode is thoughtful, philosophical, pastoral, and unexpectedly hilarious.

Psychiatric medication tapering* is becoming one of the most important and controversial conversations in mental health care.In the wake of the American Psychiatric Association Annual Conference, Dr. Bret Scher explores the growing debate around psychiatric medication “deprescribing,” responsible tapering, overprescription, and the urgent need for better research and clinician guidance.This discussion examines the real clinical questions:When should psychiatric medications be reassessed?How should tapering be approached safely?How do we distinguish withdrawal symptoms from relapse?Why is there still so little research on tapering protocols?What role could metabolic psychiatry and ketogenic therapy play in supporting brain health during treatment?Dr. Scher also discusses why every psychiatric prescription should include an ongoing plan for reassessment, not just indefinite continuation by default.Importantly, this video does NOT encourage anyone to stop psychiatric medications on their own. Decisions about medication changes should always be made carefully with a qualified healthcare provider.

A new study suggests that eating more eggs may be linked to a lower risk of dementia. But what does the research actually show?Dr. Bret Scher breaks down the headlines, the limitations of observational nutrition research, and the surprisingly important detail hidden in the baseline data.The people eating the fewest eggs entered the study with what many would consider “healthier” lifestyles:

Fatty liver disease (MASLD) is a major cause of liver disease and even liver failure. But many are surprised to learn it's not primarily a liver problem. Growing evidence suggests the root issue may be metabolic dysfunction affecting the entire body, and that perspective can drastically change how we approach treating and preventing it.In this interview, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with Dr. Adam Wolfberg to discuss a newly published study in Hepatology examining how a ketogenic intervention may help prevent metabolic liver disease before it progresses.The conversation explores MASLD (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease) and MASH (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis), conditions that now affect millions of people and are closely linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.You'll learn:Why metabolic diseases are deeply interconnectedHow ketogenic interventions may improve liver healthWhat the new research found about preventing MASLD and MASHWhy weight loss alone may not explain the benefitsHow lifestyle interventions compare to pharmaceutical approachesWhy prevention is often overlooked in modern healthcareThe broader connection between metabolic health and chronic diseaseDr. Wolfberg also explains why treating metabolic dysfunction as a whole-body condition, rather than a collection of separate diseases, may change the future of medicine.

Can insulin resistance increase the risk of suicide?In this video, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down a new study published in Translational Psychiatry that links metabolic dysfunction with higher rates of suicidal ideation, attempts, and death.Dr. Scher covers:How biomarkers like blood glucose, insulin, lipid profiles, and waist circumference relate to suicide riskHow this study fits with the growing evidence connecting metabolism to mental healthHow routinely monitoring metabolic markers could impact psychiatric careHow ketogenic and other metabolic therapies could reduce the risk of self-harmThe study adds to a growing body of evidence that mental and metabolic health are deeply connected. While more research is needed, understanding and addressing metabolic dysfunction, like insulin resistance, may be a crucial step in reducing suicide risk and improving psychiatric careExpert Featured:Dr. Bret ScherBaszucki Group Medical Directorhttps://x.com/bschermdResources Mentioned:Metabolic syndrome increases the risk of suicide attempt: evidence from a population-based cohort and genomic analysishttps://www.nature.com/articles/s41398-025-03575-1Free 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.

For decades, nutrition advice has centered on a single idea: that there's one “right” way to eat for everyone. The standard low-fat, Mediterranean-style diet approach has shaped how we think about health. But it's missing a critical piece.Here, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down the limitations of universal dietary recommendations and why relying on observational nutrition research may not provide clear answers for individual health.You'll learn:Why “evidence-based” nutrition isn't always as definitive as it seemsThe difference between observational studies and causal evidenceWhy metabolic health markers like insulin, triglycerides, and body composition matter more than just weight or cholesterolHow different people respond differently to the same dietWhen low-carb and ketogenic diets may offer powerful benefitsThis discussion challenges the idea of a single “best” diet and instead explores a more personalized approach, one that considers your metabolism, preferences, and long-term sustainability.As the field evolves, the future of nutrition may lie in moving beyond rigid guidelines and toward individualized care that actually works in the real world.

Can ketosis trigger insomnia or even mania? Do you need supplements like L-carnitine to support ketone production? Is whey protein helping or hurting your metabolic health? And how do you maintain or gain weight on a ketogenic diet without losing ketosis?Harvard-trained psychiatrist Dr. Georgia Ede and cardiologist Dr. Bret Scher tackle your biggest questions in this Metabolic Mailbag episode, breaking down the science behind ketogenic metabolic therapy, including:Why some people struggle transitioning into ketosisThe role of electrolytes, protein, and meal timingBrain insulin resistance and mental healthCarnitine deficiency and ketone productionWeight loss vs. weight maintenance on a ketogenic dietProtein powders, dairy, and whole-food nutritionPractical ketogenic diet strategies for everyday lifeThis episode also explores an important theme in metabolic psychiatry: why metabolic health markers often tell us more than standard blood sugar testing alone, and how ketogenic interventions may support brain function even in people without obvious metabolic disease.Whether you're exploring ketogenic therapy for mental health, improving metabolic health, or simply trying to make keto sustainable long term, this episode is packed with practical insights and nuanced discussion.

Send us Fan MailGavin Symes is a returning guest on our show! Be sure to check out her first appearance on episode 776 of Boundless Body Radio!Gavin Symes is Registered Occupational Therapist, a Metabolic Therapy Coach, and the Founder & Chief Wizard of Wizard OT, short for Occupational Therapy. He founded Wizard OT in 2020 to provide a truly person-centered approach to therapy.At the core of their approach is the idea that each person should be treated as an individual. By considering each person's biological, psychological and social needs, they provide a tailored approach to improving every client's wellbeing. They don't assume to know ahead of time what is best for their clients, and instead, work with the individual, their family and their wider network to create an intervention.In 2010, Gavin suffered a serious head injury that left him physically and cognitively impaired. The injury made simple tasks hard and required some basic skills to be relearnt. Progress was slow and hard-won but with time, support and consistent effort, he was able to make a full recovery. The experience of having his life turned upside down by a debilitating impairment has informed everything Gavin has done throughout his career, as it is the fire that drives him to help others.Find Gavin at-https://www.wizardot.com/IG- @wizard_otFind Boundless Body at-myboundlessbody.comBook a session with us here! 

For decades, LDL cholesterol has been the go-to metric for assessing heart disease risk. But growing research suggests there's a better predictor: ApoB. But is it a predictor in itself, or is it a marker of something even more important?Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) is a protein found on all potentially harmful lipoprotein particles, like LDL, VLDL, and remnants. Because each particle carries one ApoB, it offers a direct count of the total number of atherogenic particles, something LDL cholesterol can't do.In this video, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down the key differences between LDL and ApoB, how metabolic health influences both, and why understanding the full picture is critical for preventing heart disease.

Starting a ketogenic diet, reaching ketosis, and setting the right keto macros can feel overwhelming at first, but the fundamentals are simpler than they seem. In this video, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down how to start a keto diet step by step, including how to lower carbs, balance protein, and use fat as your primary fuel source.Whether your goal is weight loss, metabolic health, or therapeutic ketosis, this guide walks through the key principles to help you get started safely and effectively.This video covers:How to reduce carbohydrates to reach ketosisHow much protein you need on a ketogenic dietHow fat supports energy and satiety on ketoWhat causes “keto flu” and how to minimize symptomsWhy hydration and electrolytes are essentialHow to test ketones and track progressYou'll also learn how different dietary approaches, such as Mediterranean, vegetarian, and others, can still support ketosis when carbohydrates are low enough.Importantly, Dr. Scher notes that if you're using a ketogenic diet for a medical or mental health condition, it's important to work with a qualified healthcare provider. Dietary changes can affect medications and symptoms, making it crucial to have your healthcare team on board.

As interest grows in alternative approaches to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), like ibogaine and psilocybin-assisted therapy, researchers are also exploring how metabolic interventions may target the underlying biology of psychiatric conditions.Dr. Bret Scher speaks with Nicole Laurent, a licensed therapist and researcher, about a published case report exploring ketogenic metabolic therapy in treatment-resistant PTSD.Together, they break down some of the biology behind PTSD, including brain hypometabolism, oxidative stress, and neurotransmitter imbalances, and how ketogenic therapy may help address these underlying mechanisms.The conversation also explores a powerful real-world case: a woman with nearly two decades of persistent PTSD symptoms who experienced profound improvements after implementing a medically supervised ketogenic approach.In this conversation, you'll also learn:Why metabolism may play a central role in psychiatric conditionsHow ketogenic therapy may support brain energy and neurotransmitter balanceThe importance of clinical supervision, especially when medications are involvedWhy individualized care and self-advocacy matter in emerging treatmentsWhile case reports don't establish causation, they can highlight new directions for research and clinical care, especially for individuals who haven't found relief with standard approaches.As research evolves, metabolic psychiatry is opening new conversations about how we understand and treat mental health conditions. If you or someone you love is living with PTSD, this discussion may offer a new perspective to explore with a qualified healthcare provider.Learn more about ketogenic therapy as an adjunct treatment for PTSD on our blog: Hope for PTSD: The Potential of Ketogenic Metabolic Therapies.

Can a ketogenic diet affect your thyroid? What about bone health, uric acid, cannabis use, or ketone supplements?In this Metabolic Mailbag episode, Dr. Bret Scher and Dr. Georgia Ede answer your most pressing questions about ketogenic therapy and how it interacts with real-world health concerns.From thyroid function to mental health, this conversation highlights how nuanced and individualized metabolic therapies can be.You'll learn:How ketogenic diets influence thyroid hormones, and why lower T3 doesn't necessarily mean hypothyroidismWhen to monitor thyroid function more closely, especially with pre-existing conditions or medications like lithiumWhat the evidence says about protein intake, uric acid, and bone healthWhy temporary changes during the adaptation phase (like uric acid fluctuations) may not reflect long-term outcomesHow cannabis use may affect appetite, cravings, and adherence to a ketogenic dietWhether exogenous ketones and MCT oil provide the same benefits as nutritional ketosisDr. Ede also shares a key principle: context matters. Lab values, symptoms, and individual biology all need to be considered together, especially when using ketogenic therapy for mental health or metabolic conditions.The key takeaway: ketogenic therapy is not one-size-fits-all. It's a dynamic, personalized approach that often requires thoughtful monitoring, adjustments, and collaboration with a knowledgeable clinician.

Can something as simple as coconut oil support brain health in dementia?In this video, Dr. Bret Scher explores an emerging area of research focused on brain energy metabolism and how ketones may play a role in supporting cognitive function in conditions like Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment.As the brain's ability to use glucose declines in Alzheimer's, researchers have begun investigating whether ketones can help fill that energy gap.In this video, you'll learn:Why the brain may experience an energy deficit in Alzheimer's diseaseHow ketones provide an “alternative” fuel for the brainThe role of coconut oil and MCTs in raising ketone levelsInsights from Dr. Mary Newport's early observations and case reportsResearch from Dr. Stephen Cunnane on brain energy metabolismWhat current studies suggest about ketogenic therapies and cognitive functionCommon concerns about saturated fat and coconut oilDr. Scher also discusses the limitations of the current evidence. While early findings are promising, much of the research is still in its early stages, and more rigorous clinical trials are needed.At the same time, for individuals and families facing cognitive decline, low-risk lifestyle approaches like ketogenic strategies may be worth exploring under medical guidance.

Exogenous ketones have exploded in popularity, with claims ranging from better brain function to improved performance and weight loss. But what does the science actually say?In this in-depth conversation, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with leading ketone researcher Dr. Dominic D'Agostino to break down the reality behind exogenous ketones—what they are, how they work, and where they may (or may not) fit into your health strategy.They explore the key differences between:Endogenous ketones (produced by your body through diet or fasting)Exogenous ketones (supplements you consume)And why that distinction matters for both metabolic and brain health.This conversation covers:The different types of exogenous ketones (salts, esters, those derived from MCTs)Potential benefits for brain energy, seizures, and metabolic healthSafety considerations and why formulation mattersWhy exogenous ketones are best viewed as a tool, not a replacement for a ketogenic dietThe concept of a “sweet spot” for ketone levels in different conditionsOne of the biggest takeaways: context is everything. Exogenous ketones may offer the most benefit when used to support a well-formulated metabolic approach, rather than as a standalone shortcut.Dr. D'Agostino also shares insights from decades of research, including work with the Department of Defense, and discusses where the science is headed, especially in areas like neurological and psychiatric conditions.

GLP-1 medications like semaglutide have been widely discussed as breakthrough treatments for weight loss and metabolic health. But a large new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry is shifting the conversation toward something deeper: the connection between metabolic health and mental health.In this video, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down what the research actually shows, and just as importantly, what it doesn't.The study analyzed health records from over 95,000 individuals with type 2 diabetes and depression or anxiety. Those taking GLP-1 medications showed a lower risk of severe psychiatric outcomes, including hospitalization and self-harm, compared to other diabetes treatments.But here's the nuance:This wasn't an intervention trial, and it didn't show that GLP-1s treat depression or lead to remission. Instead, it showed less worsening of mental health over time.This video explores:What “less worsening” really means in mental health researchWhy metabolic health and brain health are closely connectedThe limitations of large observational studiesHow GLP-1s might fit into a broader metabolic approach to mental healthThe emerging role of ketogenic therapy and other metabolic interventions

GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide are often described as “game changers” for weight loss and cardiovascular health, and in many ways, the data support that claim. Clinical trials suggest meaningful reductions in major cardiovascular events, offering hope for individuals struggling with metabolic disease.But there's an important nuance that deserves more attention: what happens when these medications are stopped?In this conversation, Dr. Bret Scher explores emerging real-world data showing that the benefits of GLP-1s, particularly for cardiovascular risk, appear to depend on continued use. For many individuals, stopping the medication leads to a reversal of progress, raising important questions about long-term strategy, sustainability, and what true metabolic healing looks like.Are we managing symptoms, or addressing root causes?What role should medications play in long-term care?How can we use powerful tools like GLP-1s to support, rather than replace, sustainable metabolic change?For some individuals, long-term use may be appropriate and beneficial. But we need to broaden the conversation toward approaches that aim to improve underlying metabolic health, support lasting behavior change, and ultimately reduce reliance on lifelong interventions when possible.If you're exploring GLP-1s or are currently taking one, consider speaking with your healthcare provider about how to pair your treatment with sustainable lifestyle strategies such as nutrition, physical activity, and metabolic support, to help maintain progress over time.

We're seeing increasingly compelling results from ketogenic therapy in serious mental illness, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression. But what happens when a potential concern emerges along the way?In this conversation, Dr. Bret Scher sits down with psychiatrist Dr. Lori Calabrese to walk through a real patient case that highlights both the promise and the complexity of metabolic treatment.A young woman with longstanding schizophrenia experienced dramatic improvements in her mental health, metabolic markers, and quality of life after starting a ketogenic intervention. But alongside these gains, her LDL cholesterol rose significantly, raising important clinical questions.Rather than defaulting to extremes, either stopping the therapy or ignoring the lab values, Dr. Calabrese takes a thoughtful, patient-centered approach:Investigating deeper cardiovascular risk markersExploring potential underlying causes, including familial hypercholesterolemiaCollaborating across specialties, including cardiologyPrioritizing both psychiatric recovery and long-term healthThis case illustrates a critical principle in metabolic psychiatry: context matters. Lab values don't exist in isolation, and neither do patients.It also highlights a broader shift in medicine where clinicians are increasingly called to step beyond traditional silos and consider the full metabolic picture when treating brain-based conditions.At Metabolic Mind, we believe these nuanced conversations are essential. The goal isn't to ignore risk or to abandon effective therapies, but to better understand both so individuals can make informed decisions alongside their care teams.You can learn more about this conversation in the documentary The Cholesterol Code. The film shares firsthand accounts from individuals whose lives improved with ketogenic therapy, even as their LDL levels rose dramatically. It also follows how they worked with their care teams to better understand their cardiovascular risk and what that approach could mean in your own situation.

How do the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) and the American Heart Association (AHA) recommendations compare, and why do they differ?In this video, Dr. Bret Scher breaks down where these two major nutrition guidelines align, where they diverge, and what that means for your health. At the center of the conversation is a key question: should health be defined by a single lab marker, or by a broader view of metabolic function?In this video, you'll learn:Why LDL cholesterol is only one piece of cardiovascular riskWhy the two guidelines differ on saturated fat, red meat, and full-fat dairyThe role of markers like fasting insulin, triglycerides, HDL, and body compositionHow different dietary patterns influence metabolic health in different waysWhy recommendations around saturated fat and full-fat dairy remain controversialHow historical beliefs and evolving evidence shape nutrition guidelinesThis discussion also highlights a critical point: nutrition science is complex, and population-wide recommendations don't always translate clearly to individual health.While both organizations emphasize whole foods and reducing processed sugars and refined grains, the DGA reflects a growing recognition that there is more than one way to eat well, while the AHA continues to take a more prescriptive stance on saturated fat and animal-based foods.