Podcast appearances and mentions of georgia ede

Should LDL be treated? In this episode of Metabolic Mind, Dr. Bret Scher explains why the better question is who may benefit from LDL lowering, how aggressively it should be treated, and what outcomes matter most to the individual patient.Dr. Scher reviews two major trials that studied aggressive LDL lowering in very different populations. VESALIUS-CV looked at high-risk patients with serious vascular disease and found that adding a PCSK9 inhibitor reduced both cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality. STAREE studied older adults without known cardiovascular disease and found fewer cardiac events with statin therapy, while overall survival and hospitalizations did not change. Disability-free survival also showed no differenceHe covers:Why LDL treatment depends on the person, not just the numberWhat VESALIUS-CV found in high-risk patients with vascular diseaseWhy STAREE tells a different story in older adults without known heart diseaseThe difference between reducing cardiac events and extending lifeWhy vascular disease should shape how aggressively LDL is treatedHow age, frailty, cognition, cancer risk, and independence affect the risk-benefit conversationWhy LDL may need a different discussion for someone using ketogenic therapyHow metabolic health, insulin resistance, and direct evidence of vascular disease fit into the decisionThese trials illustrate why LDL treatment should be individualized with a healthcare provider. For some patients, aggressive lowering may save lives. For others, the benefits may be smaller or less connected to the outcomes they care about most.

Is it possible to follow a diet that's both vegan and keto? And can a diet like that be used as part of a care plan for bipolar disorder? In this episode of Metabolic Mind, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with author and advocate Dyane Harwood about how she uses a vegan ketogenic diet as part of her treatment for postpartum bipolar disorder.Dyane shares how she first discovered vegan keto, why she started tracking ketones and net carbs, and what she eats in a typical day, from her vegan keto smoothie to tofu, avocado, nut butter, and carefully chosen supplements. She also discusses the practical challenges of vegan keto, including protein intake, B12, omega-3s, magnesium, vitamin D3, eating out, social pressure, and finding a clinical team that understands metabolic psychiatry.They cover:How Dyane discovered vegan keto for bipolar disorderWhy ketosis became more important to her than dietary labelsWhat a typical vegan keto day looks likeHow changing her protein intake affected her ketone levelsWhy tracking net carbs, glucose, and ketones helped her personalize the dietThe supplements she uses, including B12, DHA/EPA, magnesium, vitamin D3, and acetyl-L-carnitineWhat Dyane reports about changes in her energy, activity level, cravings, and moodWhy support, resources, and mentorship can make the process easierHow she thinks about progress, flexibility, and improving over timeDyane's experience offers a personal example of how a vegan ketogenic diet can fit within a broader treatment plan. Her approach is practical and grounded in the idea that progress can start before everything feels perfect.

Can therapeutic ketosis be considered for type 1 diabetes and bipolar disorder? In this Metabolic Mailbag episode, Dr. Bret Scher and producer Erica Gerard answer viewer questions about ketogenic therapy, type 1 diabetes, Parkinson's medications, omega-3s, fasting, protein intake, metabolic rate, and why some protein foods are more filling than others.They cover:The association between type 1 diabetes and serious mental illnessWhy ketogenic therapy may be possible for some people living with type 1 diabetes, but only with careful medical supervisionHow Parkinson's medications can interact with protein timingWhether cooking salmon changes the benefits of omega-3 fatsHow intermittent fasting can affect protein intake and ketone levelsWhy MCT oil in coffee may change the meaning of a “fast”What basal metabolic rate means and how ketogenic diets may affect itWhy a protein shake may feel less satisfying than meat, even with the same grams of proteinFrom medication timing to protein needs, this episode explores why metabolic therapies work best when they are personalized, measured, and guided by the realities of each person's health goals and daily life.

A red flag next to your LDL number can feel alarming, but LDL is only one part of a much larger cardiovascular risk picture. In this episode of Metabolic Mind, cardiologist and lipidologist Dr. Bret Scher explains how to read a cholesterol panel with more context and less fear.Dr. Scher walks through LDL, triglycerides, HDL, non-HDL cholesterol, ApoB, Lp(a), and the triglyceride-to-HDL ratio. He also explains how the 2026 cholesterol guidelines use the PREVENT risk calculator, where LDL targets currently stand, and why individual risk factors, metabolic health, family history, and direct measures of vascular disease can change the conversation.He covers:Why LDL should not be read in isolationWhat triglycerides and HDL can reveal about metabolic healthWhy Dr. Scher pays attention to the triglyceride-to-HDL ratioWhen LDL above 190 may raise concern for familial hypercholesterolemiaWhy Lp(a) should be measured at least once in adulthoodHow ApoB differs from LDL cholesterolWhat the PREVENT risk calculator includesHow coronary calcium scans and CT angiograms act as tools that may help refine riskWhy LDL targets vary by risk categoryWhy metabolic health, insulin resistance, and individual preferences and priorities should be part of the discussionA cholesterol panel can start a thoughtful conversation with your healthcare provider. One number rarely tells the whole story, and better decisions come from looking at the full cardiometabolic picture.

Can carnivore and vegan diets both be used as ketogenic therapies?In this episode of Metabolic Mind, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with registered dietitian Denise Potter about two widely debated approaches to nutrition. They explore how each can be evaluated when someone is considering a ketogenic diet to support psychiatric, neurological, or metabolic health.Denise brings more than 30 years of clinical experience, including approximately 20 years working with medical ketogenic therapies. She explains the importance of risk-benefit analysis, how clinicians can assess potential nutrient gaps, and how lab testing, supplementation when indicated, and individualized support may help identify and manage potential risks.They cover:The difference between a carnivore diet and a carnivore ketogenic dietWhy some people report mental and physical health improvements with carnivore ketogenic approachesCommon questions about vitamin C, iodine, electrolytes, fiber, calcium, omega-3s, and LDLWhy bowel habits and the microbiome require clinical contextHow a vegan ketogenic diet can be formulated, including Denise's recommendation to pay close attention to B12 supplementationProtein quality, bioavailability, and amino acid considerations in vegan ketogenic dietsThe role of tracking, lab work, and follow-up testingHow clinicians can evaluate restrictive dietary patterns through a medical risk-benefit lensThis conversation offers a practical look at how different ketogenic approaches may be designed, monitored, and adjusted with individualized guidance and appropriate clinical support.

Animal-sourced foods are often framed as a problem for human health and environmental sustainability. In this episode of Metabolic Mind, Dr. Bret Scher speaks with forage agronomist and ruminant nutritionist Peter Ballerstedt, PhD (@GrassBased) about livestock, malnutrition, chronic disease, and why restoring metabolic health may require a broader conversation about nutrition and sustainability.Peter shares his reaction to The Cholesterol Code documentary and explains why its message extends beyond cholesterol. He discusses how animal-sourced foods can fit into dietary patterns that may help restore metabolic health, why malnutrition can exist even when calories are abundant, and why the health impact of food deserves a place in the sustainability conversation.They cover:Why diet and metabolic health matter for rural communitiesHow animal-sourced foods may support health restorationWhy LDL can be one part of a broader health conversationHow obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic dysfunction can reflect malnutritionWhy calories and nutrition are not the same thingHow protein quality and indispensable amino acids shape the food systems debateWhy livestock and ruminants may play an important role in sustainable agricultureWhy restoring metabolic health may require different strategies than maintaining itThis conversation offers a deeper look at animal-sourced foods, metabolic health, and sustainability in a world where chronic illness and metabolic dysfunction are increasingly common.

The terms “low-carb” and “ketogenic” are often used interchangeably, but are they the same thing?Not quite.A low-carb diet can be a powerful tool for improving blood sugar, triglycerides, insulin levels, inflammation, and overall metabolic health. Ketogenic diets, on the other hand, involve a deeper level of carbohydrate reduction that shifts the body into nutritional ketosis, where ketones become a significant source of fuel for the brain and body.That metabolic shift can be especially relevant when ketosis itself is part of the therapeutic goal.In this video, Dr. Bret Scher walks through:How low-carb and ketogenic diets are typically definedThe amount of carbohydrate that may support nutritional ketosisWhat changes in the body once ketone production increasesHow each approach may be used for different metabolic goalsWhy ketosis is being studied for serious mental illness and other brain-based conditionsHow clearer terminology can help people set more realistic expectationsThe right level of carbohydrate reduction depends on the person, the condition being addressed, and the intended outcome. Someone looking to improve general metabolic health may do very well with a low-carb approach. Someone using ketogenic therapy for a clinical purpose may need closer monitoring, greater precision, and support from an experienced healthcare team.Understanding which approach you're following gives you a clearer way to track progress, interpret results, and discuss next steps with your clinician.

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

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.

Do you suffer with anxiety, depression, or another mental illness? Millions of people do. The usual treatment is a prescription medication. If that doesn't work, the healthcare provider may offer a different one. Diet is certainly not the first topic on the provider's mind. But what if, in addition to appropriate pharmacological treatment, you were able to nourish, protect and energize your brain with your diet? Our guest offers evidence that you can heal your mind with a ketogenic approach to eating. We need to acknowledge that this approach is quite different from the plant-rich eating pattern advocated by last week's guest, Dr. Will Bulsiewicz. Humans around the world have adopted a wide range of dietary regimens that support health. Listen to Dr. Georgia Ede explain why she thinks a paleo or ketogenic diet is helpful for bolstering brain health. At The People's Pharmacy, we strive to bring you up to date, rigorously researched insights and conversations about health, medicine, wellness and health policies and health systems. While these conversations intend to offer insight and perspective, the content is provided solely for informational and educational purposes. Please consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medical care or treatment. How You Can Listen You could listen through your local public radio station or get the live stream at 7 am EST on Saturday, August 22, 2026, through your computer or smart phone (wunc.org). Here is a link so you can find which stations carry our broadcast. If you can't listen to the broadcast, you may wish to hear the podcast later. You can subscribe through your favorite podcast provider, download the mp3 using the link at the bottom of the page, or listen to the stream on this post starting on August 24, 2026. Can You Heal Your Brain with Food? We live in stressful times. More than 50 million Americans take prescription antidepressants, and millions more are on anti-anxiety medication. Unfortunately, while these drugs can be life savers, they don't always work as well as we would like. In some cases, antidepressants are only about 10 percent more effective than a placebo. Dr. Georgia Ede is a psychiatrist who began her investigation into how food affects mental health serendipitously. She was experimenting with her own diet to address some physical health issues. She used a food and symptom journal to discover the best dietary choices for her own health. To her surprise, the “upside-down” diet that helped her feel better physically also improved her sleep and her ability to focus. She started looking into evidence that a paleo or ketogenic diet could benefit people with mental health challenges. What Is Metabolic Psychiatry? There is evidence that people consuming unhealthy diets full of fast food or ultra-processed products are more susceptible to symptoms of anxiety (Nutrition Neuroscience, May 19, 2026). On the other hand, people participating in a supervised weight-loss program using either a low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet or a low-fat diet reported improvements in mood (Obesity, Jan. 2007). Those on the ketogenic (Atkins) diet reported less hunger and fewer unpleasant symptoms. Researchers have also tested a ketogenic diet in people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder (Psychiatry Research, May 2024).  These volunteers also had metabolic disorders, including obesity, which is often an unwanted effect of the ant-psychotic drugs they take to treat their condition. This four-month pilot study saw participants lose weight, reduce insulin resistance and lower their triglycerides. Even more impressive, they had a 32 percent reduction in the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale. They also reported better sleep and improved life satisfaction. You may find this recent article from National Geographic of interest: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/health/article/metabolic-psychiatry-keto-diet-brain-science. Unfortunately, it might be behind a paywall. How Does Food Affect Our Brains? Most of our body tissues are accustomed to getting energy from glucose, with the help of insulin. However, years of exposure to high levels of these compounds often makes the tissues less sensitive to the effects of insulin. The consequence is that the body–and therefore also the brain–is flooded with high levels of glucose. This exposure can result in the formation of advanced glycation end products in the brain, which can be harmful. The brain evolved to use either glucose or a flexible mix of glucose and ketones. These are the result of burning fat rather than sugar. A paleo diet will naturally provide more ketones and less glucose. Dr. Ede and colleagues have found that a ketogenic diet can be very helpful even for people with relatively serious mental problems. In one study (which was not placebo-controlled), patients hospitalized with severe persistent mental illness were given a ketogenic diet. Most did well and had significant improvements in their depression and psychosis symptoms (Frontiers in Psychiatry, July 6, 2022). Is Ketosis Dangerous? Ketosis itself simply means that you are burning fat as fuel rather than sugar. This can be achieved by following a diet that is high in animal fat, with moderate amounts of animal protein and low amounts of carbohydrate derived from plant foods. Ketosis is not inherently dangerous. However, Dr. Ede urges anyone who wants to heal their brain with diet to ask a healthcare provider to monitor and supervise the process. Prescription drug doses may require adjustment, and people may need support as they adopt a paleo or ketogenic diet. That is why this is not a do-it-yourself approach. Is Coconut Oil Helpful to Heal Your Brain? Dr. Ede described the benefits of medium-chain fatty acids produced in digesting fat. You may recall a video from a few years back in which a doctor described helping her husband recover from Alzheimer disease, at least partially, by giving him coconut oil. Some researchers consider Alzheimer disease to be a form of diabetes because the AD brain does not metabolize sugar effectively. Dr. Ede suggested that the benefits may be real, but getting medium-chain fatty acids from the diet rather than be taking coconut oil might be preferable. After Dr. Ede told us about Fran, who overcame significant memory problems by changing to a ketogenic diet, we hope there will be trials on this. Future Trials on Diet to Heal Your Brain Dietary trials are notoriously difficult to conduct. People often don't stick to the prescribed diet, and it can be difficult to find an appropriate placebo for comparison. Nonetheless, Dr. Ede is looking forward to results from a large trial of the keto diet for people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. This study is being conducted in Australia. This Week’s Guest Dr. Georgia Ede is a globally recognized expert in nutritional and metabolic psychiatry. Her 25+ years of clinical experience include 7 years at Harvard University, where she was the first psychiatrist to offer nutrition-based approaches to mental health conditions. Dr. Ede co-authored the first inpatient study of the ketogenic diet for serious mental illness, developed the first medically accredited course in ketogenic diets for mental health, and is a recipient of the Baszucki Metabolic Mind Award. Current research collaborations include pilot studies in pediatric bipolar disorder, adult ADHD, and PTSD. Her internationally bestselling book Change Your Diet, Change Your Mind: A Powerful Plan to Improve Mood, Overcome Anxiety, and Protect Memory for a Lifetime of Optimal Mental Health is being translated into 11 languages and is recommended by the New York Times Book Review. The People's Pharmacy is reader supported. When you buy through links in this post, we may earn a small affiliate commission (at no cost to you). Dr. Georgia Ede, author of Change Your Diet, Change Your Mind Listen to the Podcast The podcast of this program will be available Monday, August 24, 2026, after broadcast on Aug. 22. In this week's podcast, we'll learn how vegetarians can follow a ketogenic diet. How does the evidence Dr. Ede has collected accord with the chemical imbalance theory of mental illness? We also discuss why the standard American diet is not good for mental wellbeing, and we find out what might be in Dr. Ede's own shopping cart. You can stream the show from this site and download the podcast for free. Download the mp3, or listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

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.

Nessa live conversei com o médico Juan Pablo Roig Albuquerque (@dr.carnivoro_saude).Juan é Médico Pós graduado em Psiquiatria e trabalha com Dependências Químicas. Perdeu 37kg com Dieta Carnívora e transformou sua saúde, inclusive eliminando o uso de medicamentos anti-depressivos. É treinado em Ketogenic Diets for Mental Health Dra. Georgia Ede.Os ingressos para a Jornada Rebelião Saudável 2026 já estão disponíveis. Mais do que uma sequência de palestras, a Jornada é um encontro para quem deseja compreender a saúde para além das respostas prontas e recuperar o protagonismo sobre o próprio corpo e suas escolhas. Durante seis dias, reuniremos profissionais de diferentes áreas para discutir, com profundidade, ciência, alimentação, metabolismo, comportamento, movimento e estilo de vida. Em um cenário no qual adoecer se tornou cada vez mais comum, participar da Jornada é escolher conhecimento, autonomia e transformação. Garanta seu ingresso e venha fazer parte dessa rebelião: ser saudável é a melhor maneira de se rebelar contra o sistema.▶️ Saiba Mais: https://henriqueautran.com.br/jornada2026/No Clube de Leitura, exploramos juntos obras que desafiam o senso comum — livros que unem ciência, filosofia e ancestralidade — sempre com uma visão crítica e prática para transformar o conhecimento em ação. Entre para o Clube e participe das discussões ao vivo, receba roteiros, resumos e mergulhe em cada capítulo com profundidade.▶️ Saiba Mais: https://henriqueautran.com.br/clube-de-leitura/ Conheça o Substack Nutrição Ancestral. É um espaço autoral de aprofundamento científico, com análises técnicas baseadas em literatura acadêmica sobre evolução, fisiologia e metabolismo, conectando biologia evolutiva e evidência para quem quer entender o corpo além de modismos. ▶️ Assine: https://nutricaoancestral.substack.com No instagram você encontrará conteúdo diário sobre nutrição ancestral, metabolismo, evolução humana, saúde, longevidade e pensamento crítico. Além dos vídeos, você encontrará reflexões, bastidores, estudos científicos comentados e conteúdos exclusivos para ajudar você a entender melhor seu corpo e tomar decisões mais conscientes sobre sua saúde.▶️ Siga no Instagram: https://instagram.com/henriqueautranNo canal YouTube você encontra vídeos, entrevistas, análises científicas, aulas e reflexões sobre nutrição ancestral, metabolismo, evolução humana, saúde, longevidade e pensamento crítico. Se você busca informações baseadas em ciência, mas explicadas de forma clara e acessível, inscreva-se no canal e acompanhe os novos conteúdos.▶️ Inscreva-se: https://youtube.com/c/henriqueautran

What if your "chemical imbalance" was never actually in your brain — but on your plate? Dr. Georgia Ede is a Harvard trained psychiatrist who began to experience a host of mystery symptoms in her 40s, including fibromyalgia, migraines, chronic fatigue syndrome, and IBS.  When she got relief after experimenting with her diet, she began her path of nutritional studies & later became a nutritional psychiatrist. In this episode, she covers questionnaire collecting vs research, a warning about experimenting on yourself, chemical imbalances vs inflammation & 3 tests you can do at home. This episode originally aired on July 8, 2024. If you liked this episode, you'll also like episode 251: FOOD ADDICTION: CHARACTER FLAW OR REAL DEPENDENCE? [REMASTERED] Guest:https://www.instagram.com/georgiaedemd/https://twitter.com/GeorgiaEdeMDhttps://www.diagnosisdiet.com/https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaEdeMdhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/georgiaedemd/ Sponsors: https://www.historicpensacola.org/about-us/  1:31 Skeptical Psychiatrist's Turning Point3:11 Why Nutrition Studies Lie5:38 Rethinking Chemical Imbalances7:10 Metabolic vs Nutritional Psychiatry8:52 Two Diets, Two Goals11:12 Testing Diets in Prisons?12:04 How Fast Results Come14:05 Special Forces Eat Keto15:00 Is Inflammation to Blame?18:14 Try 30 Carbs a Day21:02 Self-Experimenting Without a Doctor24:25 Test Your Insulin at Home28:58 Does Red Dye Cause ADHD?31:06 The Chocolate Craving Mystery34:00 Inside Food Addiction Research39:32 Escape the Glucose Rollercoaster42:11 Her 90-Year-Old Mom's Keto Win46:08 Hope Is on the MenuRequest to join my private Facebook Group, MFR Curious Insiders: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BAt3bpwJC/Follow me in all the places:https://www.meredithforreal.com/  https://www.instagram.com/the_curiousintrovert/ meredith@meredithforreal.comhttps://www.youtube.com/meredithforreal https://www.facebook.com/curiousintrovert

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.

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.

In this special mini-episode of The Life Possible Podcast, recorded live at the Ideal Protein Super Weekend in Austin, Texas, Dr. John Barnes sits down with licensed clinical social worker, certified addictions therapist, and metabolic mental health advocate Julie Tucker-Ponder, LCSWJulie is one of a select group of clinicians to complete Dr. Georgia Ede's Ketogenic Diets for Mental Health Clinician Training, bringing together years of experience treating trauma, addiction, eating disorders, and emotional health with the latest science on nutrition and brain health.Together, they discuss:• The powerful connection between metabolism and mental health.• Why understanding emotional eating patterns is essential for lasting success.• New tools being developed to help Ideal Protein coaches better support clients through all three phases of the Ideal Protein Protocol.Whether you're an Ideal Protein client, coach, healthcare professional, or simply curious about the connection between nutrition and mental wellness, this conversation offers hope and a fresh perspective on what's possible when we begin by restoring our metabolic health.If you've ever wondered whether food can change the way you think, feel, and live, this episode is for you.#MetabolicPsychiatry #MentalHealth #KetogenicNutrition #IdealProtein #MetabolicHealth #BrainHealth #InsulinResistance #EmotionalEating #LifePossiblePodcast #ResetWellness

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Dr. Georgia Ede is a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and author specializing in nutrition and ketogenic diets for mental health.Show partners:LMNT - Claim your free LMNT Sample Pack with any purchase by using this linkQuicksilver Scientific - Save 15% off your first order by using the code "jesse15" at checkoutShow notes:jessechappus.com/711

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.

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.